South Africa: Happy Voting Day SA! As South Africans today head to the polls to cast their vote in the sixth General Elections, the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) has wished the country a safe and peaceful voting day. The SACCI wishes South Africans a safe and peaceful voting day, as they exercise their constitutional right to choose their preferred political leaders through a secret ballot, said SACCI Chief Executive Officer Alan Mukoki. This as 26.7 million registered voters across the country are expected to make their X at the 22 924 voting stations set up for this purpose. Mukoki applauded the peaceful and cordial manner in which contesting political parties and their supporters have conducted themselves in their campaigns for votes. Despite robust debates, aggressive campaigning and sharp differences on many political and other points, the parties have been civil to one another. This tolerance of differences of political views, opinions and beliefs, is indicative of the high state of maturity, discipline and respect for democratic and constitutional rights among parties and is most welcome and encouraging, he said. A total, 48 political parties are contesting todays elections that are being held 25 years after South Africans of all races first voted in 1994. The registration of more than 40 political parties to contest the elections is landmark and is testimony to the robustness and vitality of the South African democratic state. The peaceful election campaign environment has enabled all parties contesting the elections to clearly and fairly state their manifestos and campaigns to voters and the public. This in itself is good for business and investor confidence as one of the key elements in a constitutional democracy where free and fair elections are held, he said. SACCI wished all parties contesting the elections well. The chamber was heartened by the fact that almost all contesting political parties have elevated the issue of economic growth, job creation, crime, fixing the issue of social injustice and inequality at the centre of their political promises. This, it said, bodes well for the future of a democratic state. Todays voting day follows on two days of special voting that got underway on Monday. Among those who cast their vote on Monday were Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Cast your vote On Tuesday, the Electoral Commission (IEC) which is administering the elections, called on registered voters to have their say by casting their votes. Voting stations open at 7am and will close at 9pm tonight. However, all voters who are in the queue to vote at 9pm will be allowed to vote. Voting Day has been declared a public holiday, with Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant appealing to employers to allow workers to exercise their democratic rights through voting. - SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Hong Kong: Energy saving efforts lauded The Electrical & Mechanical Services Department received the Digital Award for the Best Small Project/Collaboration from the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers in London. The department digitalised the air-conditioning and electrical distribution systems at the award-winning project, based at the Tuen Mun School Dental Clinic, to facilitate real-time remote monitoring and fault prediction. The award recognises the departments efforts in applying digital technology and data analysis to improve the efficiency of building services. Speaking at the presentation ceremony in London, the departments Director Alfred Sit said it was encouraging the departments efforts in promoting energy saving, and digitalisation has been recognised. The department will continue to make use of innovation and technology solutions to make Hong Kong a more sustainable smart city, he added. This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Arya Dipa and Suherdjoko (The Jakarta Post) Bandung/Semarang Wed, May 8, 2019 09:00 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736b7e44 1 National Ramadan-2019,idul-fitri-exodus,Transportation-Minister-Budi-Karya-Sumadi,one-way-traffic-Idul-Fitri Free Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi says the government is considering whether to institute a one-way system on the trans-Java toll road as a way to end the annual traffic congestion during the upcoming Idul Fitri exodus. The traffic plan, which will be implemented from kilometer 29 in Bekasi, West Java, to km 262 in West Brebes, Central Java, would be applied from May 30 to June 2, or three days before the Islamic holiday. I will discuss with National Police chief [Gen. Tito Karnavian). If [he] agrees, we will issue the decree and announce it to the public. So the regencies will be ready for the influx of vehicles, said Budi after a coordination meeting on transportation in Bandung, West Java, on Tuesday. The Idul Fitri exodus is an annual problem, especially in Java, when millions of people travel from their residences in the western part of the island to their hometowns in the east and outside Java. Road traffic will be at its busiest as more than half of holidaymakers still opt to travel by private vehicle with families, according to the ministry. Land Transportation Director General Budi Setiyadi said the implementation of the one-way traffic plan would occur throughout the day intermittently. Vehicles from Semarang will exit in West Brebes. Buses and public transportation will be on Lane A [the lanes from Jakarta to the East], while Lane B will be for private vehicles, he said. Setiyadi said the new arrangement would double space for the traffic surge to the east approaching Idul Fitri, and travelers could benefit from more rest areas. Earlier, the ministry also studied a plan to implement an odd-even traffic policy for the exodus, but dropped this because of the complications of the plan. We were worried that the traffic would be stuck, especially those in the middle of the trans-Java route, said Setiyadi. He added that the one-way traffic plan was recommended by the polices Traffic Corps. Budi said the same plan would be implemented for the return flow of traffic from June 8 to 10. The one-way route will begin at km 189 in Cirebon, West Java, to km 29. Those traveling from Jakarta to the east would exit in West Cikarang. A survey of the ministrys research and development board estimated that some 18.2 million people will travel from Banten, Greater Jakarta and Greater Bandung for the exodus this year. Their main destination is Central Java, at about 37 percent, West Java at 25 percent and East Java at 11 percent, said Setiyadi, adding that those headed to West Java usually aimed for Bandung, Garut and Tasikmalaya. It is estimated that 399,000 cars will use the trans-Java while about 273,000 will take the Pantura [the Java northern coast route], said Setiyadi. For their own safety, Minister Budi called on travelers not to ride motorcycles. He suggested they travel on free buses provided by his ministry and have their motorcycles transported on board trains or ships instead. He also suggested regional heads and police chiefs make necessary preparations. Separately, Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo said that caution was needed in some spots that could trigger traffic congestion. These included overflowing markets, railway crossings and toll road exits. In the past what was traumatizing was the Brexit [Brebes Exit] incident. That is no longer the case now, he said. In 2016, a massive traffic jam occurred at the East Brebes exit gate in Central Java during that years Idul Fitri mass exodus, with thousands of vehicles being caught for an average of 12 hours at the gate. Ganjar also called on city and regency administration heads to mark areas prone to traffic congestion such as at the toll road exits in Pejagan, Pemalang, Banyumanik, Salatiga, Tingkir, Boyolali, and Kartasura. We have to provide alternative routes there, he said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 16:32 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736db0f3 4 Business SPT,institution,Taxpayer,2018,achievement Free The Directorate General of Taxation reports that only 768,000, 52.24 percent, of all companies and other institutions submitted tax returns (SPT) for 2018 by Thursday's deadline. That was lower than last years figure, which was 58.8 percent. Tax office spokesman Hestu Yoga Saksama said recently that 558,000 of all taxpayers who submitted SPT, about 70 percent of the total, used electronic filing (e-filing), while the remaining went to tax offices in person. He said the tax office would follow up on institutions and companies that had not submitted SPTs the same way tax officers treated individuals who had not submitted SPTs by deadline. We will follow up based on the data of their incomes and the wealth they own, as well as other data that should be reported through SPT, Hestu said as reported by kontan.co.id, adding that taxpayers who submit SPT late were required to pay fines. (bbn) Topics : SPT institution Taxpayer 2018 achievement Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Yulia Savitri (The Jakarta Post) Palembang Wed, May 8, 2019 18:22 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736e34a8 1 National lrt-palembang,Ramadan-2019,iftar Free LRT passengers in Palembang are welcome to eat and drink on board during Ramadan to break their fast. The regulation applies to passengers that board the train at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport at 5:56 p.m. Food and drink that can be taken on board the LRT, according to a spokesperson for PT KAIs regional division III Palembang, Aida Suryanti, was limited to bottled drinks and snacks. To keep the train clean, there will be officers reminding passengers not to leave garbage inside the LRT, Aida told The Jakarta Post, Wednesday, adding that the dispensation would give comfort to fasting passengers. Officers, according to Aida, would also make an announcement when it was time to break the fast. Smoking, however, is banned, and so are street musicians. We give permission [to eat and drink] to only those who are still on board the trains, she assured. LRT Palembang has transported 1.5 million passengers since it commenced operations. She said efforts had been made to encourage people to use the LRT. Among the efforts included integrating the LRT fare with that of other modes of transportation into a single fare since February. Lower fares are also available for students, she said. Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi previously urged people in Palembang to use the LRT regularly. We have to be proud because 80 percent of this is the creation of the sons of the nation, Budi said in Palembang, recently. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Vela Andapita (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 For thousands of Hindu followers in Bekasi regency in West Java, praying in a temple is no easy feat. Whenever they want to observe rituals during big religious holidays, they have to go to Pura Agung Tirta Bhuana Temple in neighboring Bekasi municipality. There are between 6,000 and 7,000 Hindus in the regency of 3.5 million people, who are predominantly Muslim, according to data from Bekasi Regency Interfaith Communication Forum (FKUB). For the minority community it has long been a dream to have a temple in the regency. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Vela Andapita (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8 2019 For thousands of Hindu followers in Bekasi regency in West Java, praying in a temple is no easy feat. Whenever they want to observe rituals during big religious holidays, they have to go to Pura Agung Tirta Bhuana Temple in neighboring Bekasi municipality. There are between 6,000 and 7,000 Hindus in the regency of 3.5 million people, who are predominantly Muslim, according to data from Bekasi Regency Interfaith Communication Forum (FKUB). For the minority community it has long been a dream to have a temple in the regency. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Kharishar Kahfi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 18:46 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736e4407 1 Politics #Indonesia,#corruption,KPK,grill,Religious-Affairs-Minister,Lukman-Hakim-Saifuddin,bribery-case Free Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saifuddin has rejected an incriminating statement by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) alleging that he accepted a bribe for a career promotion at his ministry. About a month ago, I informed the KPK about the money. I told the KPK investigators as much during the questioning, Lukman told journalists on Wednesday after a five-hour interrogation session at the antigraft bodys headquarters in Jakarta. Lukman was questioned as a witness against Muhammad Romy Romahurmuziy, the former chairman of the United Development Party (PPP) and chairman of the partys faction at the House of Representatives. The graft busters suspect Romy of accepting Rp 300 million (US$20,969) for rigging a promotion at the ministry. I also showed them proof that I had handed over the money to the antigraft body, because I thought it was not my right to accept the money, said Lukman, who is also a PPP member. In a written statement, the KPK previously alleged that the minister accepted Rp 10 million from the newly appointed head of the East Java Religious Affairs Office, Haris Hasanudin. Haris allegedly got the position with Romys help, according to a text message he reportedly sent to the former party chairman. The KPK has also named Haris a suspect in the case. Thank God. I was officially appointed this evening because of the help of you and the minister. I am now ready to strengthen the PPPs grip, especially in East Java, Haris wrote to Romy, according to the KPK. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 12:02 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736c85d1 4 Business Sriwijaya-Air,routes,closure,ceiling-price,reduction Free Sriwijaya Air plans to close some routes if the government revises down the ceiling prices of economy class tickets to force airlines to cut airfares. Sriwijaya Air president director Joseph Saul said on Tuesday the airline like it or not had to abide by the government's decision, but he said the company needed to close a number of routes to prevent losses. He said the government policy would negatively affect its revenue. Of course, it will affect our revenue, Joseph said as quoted by kontan.co.id. On Monday, Coordinating Economic Minister Darmin Nasution invited Budi, State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Minister Rini Soemarno and flag carrier Garuda Indonesias board of directors for a meeting in Jakarta to lower the prices of plane tickets. We have one week to decide on new price ceilings for economy class tickets. God willing, [we will issue a new policy], Budi said. Joseph stressed closing several routes was necessary to maintain the companys financial health. He said the airline would monitor the domestic flight market and consider opening new, more profitable routes. The decision to revise down ceiling prices of airfares came after two regulations -- Transportation Ministerial Regulation No. 20/2019 on airfares for domestic commercial airlines and Ministerial Decree No. 72/2019 on airfare ceilings failed to push down airfares. Budi emphasized the policy was made after considering the peoples purchasing power. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) New York Thu, May 9 2019 Indonesian style: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres talks to Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi during an Indonesia-chaired UN meeting in New York on Tuesday. Indonesia is serving as president at the UN Security Council with the theme Investing in Peace: Improving Safety and Performance of United Nations Peacekeeping.(JP/Agnes Anya) United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was ready to attend the Indonesia-chaired United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting on Tuesday, but first; he made sure to don tenun a traditional Indonesian fabric. Before the meeting, he came to greet us in the presidential room carrying a brightly colored tenun shirt in his hand, without even a bag. I was surprised when he said he would leave for a moment to change into the tenun shirt, Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi told The Jakarta Post on Tuesday in New York City. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Andreo Calonzo and Claire Jiao (Bloomberg) Manila Wed, May 8, 2019 08:10 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736ae24e 2 SE Asia Rodrigo-Duterte,Philippines,election,politics,tax Free Millions of Philippine voters are headed to midterm elections on May 13 to vote for new lawmakers who will determine the fate of President Rodrigo Dutertes pitch to revamp the political and tax systems. Duterte has put forward a controversial plan to shift his nations government system from unitary to federal, in a bid to spread wealth in one of Asias fastest-growing economies. He also wants to cut corporate tax rates to attract more investments. To do this, his allies must win majority of about 300 seats in the House of Representatives and the 12 Senate slots up for grabs in the midterm vote. Pre-election surveys are looking good for Duterte. Ten of his chosen senatorial candidates have a shot at winning seats, based on an April survey by pollster Pulse Asia. Hes also expected to retain control of the House, whose members mostly aligned with his party after he won the presidency in 2016. Heres everything you need to know about the Philippine midterm vote. By the Numbers There are over 61 million registered voters, although turnout is expected to be lower compared to presidential polls. In the last midterm vote in 2013, turnout was around 75 percent. The 2016 elections which Duterte won had an 81.5 percent turnout. Over 18,000 government positions are up for grabs, including seats in Congress and local government. Election spending can add 1 to 2 percentage points to economic growth this year, Economic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said in January. The governments goal is to hit 6 percent to 7 percent growth in 2019. Philippine citizens above the age of 35 comprise more than half of the voting population, with 9 million over 60 years old. The number of younger voters is growing, with 2.3 million teenagers voting for the first time. Prominent Personalities Senator Grace Poe - Shes one of the leading senatorial candidates based on pre-election surveys, and her ranking in the midterm vote could affect how she approaches the 2022 presidential elections after she lost to Duterte in 2016. Christopher Bong Go - Hes Dutertes former top aide and pet candidate who has seen his ranking in pre-election polls boosted by the presidents backing. The outcome of his senatorial bid could be a good measure of Dutertes popularity. Former Senator Mar Roxas - Hes the oppositions main candidate in the midterm vote after placing second to Duterte in the last presidential elections. His ranking could be an indicator of the publics sentiment toward the presidents critics. Governor Imee Marcos - A daughter of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, shes trying to keep her familys political ambitions alive through her senatorial bid, after her brothers narrow defeat in the vice-presidential polls in 2016 and her mother Imeldas recent conviction. Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte - Shes seeking re-election in her clans local turf, but shes also making herself visible in the national political scene by campaigning for her fathers candidates and some of her own. Her name is already being floated by administration officials as her fathers potential successor in 2022. Analysts Views Robust economic growth of 6 percent or higher for the past 10 quarters under Duterte -- as well as easing inflation for the past six months -- play in the favor of the Presidents candidates, Bloomberg Economics analyst Justin Jimenez said. Michael Ricafort, economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. in Manila, said midterm vote results will send an important signal on the level of support from both houses of Congress that will determine whether Duterte can deliver key bills closely watched by credit raters and investors, including those seeking to lower corporate taxes and ease foreign investment limits. Duterte will likely retain strong majority support in Congress and have support for his fiscal reform agenda because of his popularity, which bounced back to its highest in the first quarter of 2019, said Euben Paracuelles, a Singapore-based economist at Nomura Holdings Inc. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Nuzulack Dausen (Reuters) Dar Es Salaam Wed, May 8, 2019 18:05 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736e2503 2 News Tanzania,travel,tourism,Mount-Kilimanjaro,destination,cable-car,Africa Free Tanzania wants to boost tourist numbers by putting a cable car on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africas tallest mountain, and is in talks about the project with a Chinese and a Western company. Around 50,000 tourists climb Kilimanjaro annually. A cable car could increase tourist numbers by 50 percent by providing access to the mountain for those unable to climb it, Constantine Kanyasu, the deputy minister for tourism, said. The country is conducting feasibility studies on possible routes at the moment, Kanyasu told Reuters. "We are still doing a feasibility study to see if this project works," he said. "There are two companies one from China and another from a Western country that have shown interest." "This wont be the first time in the world, cable cars are there in Sweden, Italy, the Himalayas, he said. Kanyasu said the government was looking at business plans, potential investors and profits. Read also: Tourist reaches out of safari vehicle in Tanzania to pat wild lion The length of the route has not been finalised, with various options under consideration depending on cost and engineering issues, the minister said. An environmental impact assessment would also be carried out, he said. Porter and guide groups who take tourists up the mountain oppose the project because they fear cable cars will reduce the number of climbers. Loishiye Mollel, head of Tanzania Porters' Organisation, said visitors normally spend a week climbing the mountain. "One visitor from the U.S. can have a maximum of 15 people behind him, of which 13 are porters, a cook and a guide. All these jobs will be affected by a cable car," he said. "We are of the view that the mountain should be left as it is." There are about 20,000 porters working between Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru, another mountain nearby, he said. Tanzania's earnings from tourism jumped 7.13 percent last year, helped by an increase in arrivals from foreign visitors. Tourism revenues raised $2.43 billion for the year, up from $2.19 billion in 2017. Tourism is the main source of hard currency in Tanzania, known for its beaches, wildlife safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro, which has three volcanic cones and is nearly 5,000 metres high from its base. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Florian Molliet (The Jakarta Post) Lembongan Wed, May 8, 2019 13:44 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736cd292 3 Activities scuba-diving,bali,outdoor-activities,marine-environment,plastic-waste,beach,marine-tourism Free Have you ever thought of experiencing underwater life? Nature has a lot to offer but people are still unaware of such sights, which consist of the right kind of thrill and adventure that gives you the exotic break from your life. Scuba diving is one of those experiences that everyone should experience at least once in their life. This activity brings you closer to the blue ocean that offers millions of things for the eyes to feast on. Bali is known for its diving sites and there are lots of Bali dive shops from where you can start the adventure The shops have experienced divers, who are always there for your assistance while you take on your ocean underwater ride. What are the major points to consider before going on a scuba dive? This question that probably pops up on your mind is whether this is the right time to go diving or do you trust yourself to do that? Well, you are not thinking out of the track, as everyone has the same thoughts before going for a dive. So to help you with the right answer, here is a checklist for your reference. If you feel that you can tick all of these points then congratulations, you are ready for diving. You have to be above 10 years old and should not have any medical problems related to breathing such as asthma. There is a contract that you have to sign before taking your dive. It will contain terms and conditions that you need to agree with. Before going for a dive, you will get a complete brief on how the dive would be like and what safety measures you have to take into consideration. You must have certain skills such as swimming, jumping and coming back to the top quickly. These points are very important to keep in mind. At some dive shops, you will have to showcase your skills to convince them to take you on their dive trips. Read also: Indonesia intends to attract more Japanese tourists at Marine Diving Fair in Tokyo A note about plastics Needless to say that the beauty of underwater is heart melting but it is fading with the increasing amount of plastic waste and careless nature of humans. Plastic waste has been seen everywhere throughout dives so you can now imagine how it would affect sea creatures. Sometimes, they die due to respiration problems. It is therefore best to avoid usage of any plastic material around the ocean. As is the case with other major destinations, tourism brings negative impacts to surrounding waters and marine pollution. Many holidaymakers never enter the water but their waste is left behind in the ocean and on coral reefs, which results in devastating environmental degradation. What kind of experiences are available? If this will be your most adventurous activity in the ocean by far, you may have many questions pop up in your mind. There are, however, lots of different trips tailored by dive shops. If you don't wish to spend the whole day diving, for instance, you can opt for the half day diving trip that includes many attractive ocean sights to give you joy and happiness. The dive shops will also provide you with proper guidance about how to dive and other important information. Just one visit will expose you to many new insights about diving. There are lots of different places that you can visit in Bali. But if we talk about the underwater sites then there are some specific destinations for you. These sights are well-examined by divers, who have vast experience in guiding divers for many years. Some popular spots include Amed Beach and Tulamben in East Bali, Nusa Penida in South Bali and Pemuteran Bay and Menjangan Island in North Bali. Read also: How much does it cost to get a diving license in Indonesia? Safety tips: When scuba diving, do not hold your breath as it may cause damage to your lungs. Maintain an accurate rate of ascent to avoid decompression sickness while diving. There is diving gears in your wet suit and make sure that you have double checked it. If you have sickness and other problems, you must dive according to your limits and let your guide know beforehand. You should also practice some of the vital diver safety skills given by your guide. To have a good experience in the safest manner possible, it is best to follow all the instructions given. Scuba diving is an experience that is worth a try with the best kind of assistance from your diving instructors. However, if you are unable to swim, then no need to worry as there are other tools and safety equipment available for nonswimmers. So dont have any second thoughts, plan a trip to Bali and dive like a fish to explore the unseen world. *** Florian Molliet works at Dive Concepts. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post. May 07 2019 7:54 pm Agudath Israel of America, a national Orthodox Jewish organization, is applauding a new rule issued by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) that will strengthen the ability of federal employees to take compensatory time off for religious observances. President Trump highlighted the development at the White House event honoring the National Day of Prayer. The OPM action was also strongly endorsed by Attorney General William Barr, who stated that By offering more flexibility in employees work schedules, todays new rule treats Americans of faith with respect and recognizes that government can make legitimate accommodations while still serving the public. The new rule is an important step forward in religious accommodation in the federal workplace, said Rabbi Abba Cohen, Agudath Israels Vice President for Government Affairs and Washington Director, and a leader in the effort. In the Jewish community, it will go far in helping those who need to take time off to observe the Sabbath and Jewish holidays. The OPM final rule was almost fifteen years in the making. Federal law has provided for compensatory time for religious observance for several decades. Such time off is required under law unless it is determined that the accommodation would interfere with efficient carrying out of the agencys mission. But the law and its terms were often applied unevenly across the federal government, with some agencies reportedly interpreting the law very narrowly and subject to the unfettered discretion of supervisors. In 2005, and then again in 2013, OPM proposed regulations that sought to address several deficiencies in the proposal. At those times, Rabbi Cohen drafted comments responding to the proposal and helped garner support of some twenty religious and civil rights groups of different denominational and ideological backgrounds. OPMs final rule repeatedly referred to those comments. Highlights of the new rule include, among others, expanding the time allowed to earn compensatory hours to twenty six pay periods (approximately one year), rather than the originally proposed six pay periods (twelve weeks) that would have been impossible to accommodate religious time off in many instances. Moreover, the rule does not allow supervisors to make religious judgments as to whether it is necessary for an employee to take time off for religious observance, but rather leaves the determination up to the employees personal beliefs and adherence. Finally, denial of compensatory time, and its rationale, must be put in writing and available for review. In announcing the new rule, Acting OPM Director Margaret Weichert asserted, Religious compensatory time is another way to respect the many, varying religious traditions of our civil servants and that This rule will provide flexibility to our current employees After this 15 year effort has come to a close Rabbi Cohen said he was looking to the future. The significance of the new rule goes beyond the federal employee, as the federal comp time laws wide usage has made it a model for other current, and hopefully future, federal and state religious accommodation laws. Broadening religious rights in both the public and private workplace has become an increasingly relevant and necessary priority that enhances civil rights and American productivity, noted Rabbi Cohen. May 08 2019 8:47 am Agudath Israel of America, in conjunction with Hatzolah of Borough Park, Flatbush, and Williamsburg, and other community organizations and health care providers, is pursuing a coordinated, community-wide effort in New York City to make measles vaccinations available. In light of the ongoing outbreak, vaccinations will be made available with no fee, appointment, or insurance required. The events will take place simultaneously at Hatzolah garages in Borough Park, Flatbush, and Williamsburg on Sunday, May 12th, 3-9 PM. A component of this effort is to inform. The CDC and NYC Department of Health are now recommending that infants in outbreak areas receive their first MMR vaccination at 6 months old and receive the second dose at an accelerated schedule prior to 4 years old, to ensure they are protected. Also, those born between 1957 and 1989, when medical practice was to administer only one MMR dose, may not be protected. It is recommended that such individuals either perform a blood test to determine immunity status or simply receive a second dose. Individuals may speak to your doctor for specific guidance. The immunocompromised, pregnant (or those who might be), highly allergic, and those who recently received blood transfusions or other vaccines, should ask their doctor prior to vaccinating. The Agudah thanks the Hatzolahs of Borough Park, Flatbush, and Williamsburg; Boro Park Jewish Community Council; Flatbush Jewish Community Council; United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg (UJO); Maimonides Medical Center, NYU Langone Health, and the New York Community Hospital for partnering to make this endeavor happen. May we all be gezunt. Locations below: Hatzolah of Boro Park New Garage 3701 14th Ave Hatzoloh of Williamsburg 518 Park Ave Hatzoloh of Flatbush 1880 Ocean Ave Relatedly, Achiezer and Hatzalah of Nassau County, JCCRP, YIW, Kamin Health, Mount Sinai, and South Nassau Communities Hospital have partnered to offer measles immunity status testing in Woodmere to anyone appropriate for testing: YIW 859 Peninsula Blvd, Woodmere, NY 11598 Sunday, May 12th 10AM 2PM 11 hours ago Live updates: California nearing 5 million coronavirus cases SACRAMENTO, Calif. California health officials say the omicron variant is evident in 50% to 70% of new coronavirus cases in parts of the most populous state heading into the holidays, with the state nearing a total of 5 million virus infections for the pandemic. The U.S. Read Article The 2020 election is becoming one of Exclusionists and Inclusionists. The former, for the most part, wish to exclude those with too much melanin in their epidermis, those who are not Protestant (except of course, those who belong to a fringe group such as Seventh Day Adventists or members of the Church of Latter-Day Saints), and those pesky immigrants. Only males and females need apply. They deplore change. Many no longer believe in science, choosing superstition and rumors instead. They are suspicious of everyone and every thing not in their clan. Inclusionists have the Big Tent, welcoming anyone willing to welcome others: Black, Red, White, Blue, Yellow; Christian, Jewish, Islam, Buddhist, Hindu, Satanist; LGBTQ+; Tall ones, short ones, plump ones, slim ones; Immigrants from North, South & Central America, Europe, and Asia. They want to reduce if not eliminate income inequality, sexism, hate crimes, fraud, corruption, and the measles. They support equal pay for equal work, a womans right to family planning, fair elections, better healthcare and education, improving the infrastructure, humane treatment of all sentient beings including farm animals, and reducing the impact of climate change. White Supremacists, Neo-Nazis, KKK-ers, Skin Heads, Alt-Righters and the like, White Evangelicals and similar religious zealots have flocked to the Exclusionists, along with white males with few skills and little education and those who must blame others for their own shortcomings. Their party is the Trumpublican. This party has put up numerous barriers for groups they dont like. Examples include the tax break for the rich that has caused the National Debt to hemorrhage, gerrymandering and other denial of voter rights, numerous attempts to kill or reduce healthcare, ignoring international laws regarding asylum seekers, and cutting retirement benefits. The Anti-Defamation League recently reported that anti-Semitic attacks doubled in 2018. Their report appeared three days after John Earnest, a 19-year-old, killed Lori Gilbert-Kaye, wounded Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein and two others at the Congregation Chabad Synagogue in Poway, California. Earnests weapon was an AR-15-style rifle. The shooting occurred six months after a shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue slaughtered 11 people in the deadliest attack in U.S. Jewish history. Many women, minorities, young voters, the more well-educated, LGBTQ+, less religious, and more science-oriented people have joined the Inclusionists in the Democratic Party. Depending on the final candidates and platforms, Independents, Centrists, and disillusioned Trump voters could swing left. In a recent poll, 58% of responding business leaders believe DonnyT will lose in 2020. A recent CNN poll showed DonnyTs favorability rating at 43%. One factor dragging him down is the Mueller Report. Last week, candidates Kamala Harris, Amy Klobuchar, and Corie Booker confronted William Barr on the Senate Judiciary Committee about Special Counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian interference in the 2016 election and whether President Donald Trump obstructed justice. Harris said she would prosecute the case against the president. Attorney General Barr, has the president or anyone at the White House ever asked or suggested that you open an investigation of anyone? Yes or no? Barr was flummoxed. She asked if Barr had reviewed the underlying evidence Muellers team had compiled. Barr said that he had not. Harris responded, As the attorney general of the United States, you run the United States Department of Justice. If, in any U.S. attorneys office around the country, the head of that office, when being asked to make a critical decision about-in this case-the person who holds the highest office in the land, and whether or not that person committed a crime, would you accept them recommending a charging decision to you, if they had not reviewed the evidence? Barr tried to pass the decision off to Mueller, but Harris stopped him. You made the decision not to charge him, she rebuffed. More amiability, less animosity? We can only hope. Ed Fisher writes a weekly column for The Morning Sun. Titanes consists of six disused silos, which have now been converted into six giant, brightly-coloured murals, forever transforming the semiarid landscape and emblematic buildings of La Mancha. Image courtesy of Antonio Rivera and Elchino Po Ink and Movement Laborvalia The project brought together artist Okuda San Miguels creative team,, a Spanish disabilities rights association,, and the Provincial Council of Ciudad Real. This is a cross-cutting project that manages to unite social inclusion, the commitment to urban art and the recovery of our rural heritage. The province is now an open-air museum in which our towns are part of the works. The people with disabilities who have taken part of the project are our true 'titans'," says Jose Manuel Caballero Serrano, President of the Provincial Council of Ciudad Real. The aim of Titanes is to promote the successful integration of disabled individuals in society and the workplace through a collaborative project. Through the initiative, 450 individuals with disabilities from Laborvalia associations have been able to support 14 well-renowned urban artists, who were invited to make the project a reality by Okuda San Miguel. Okuda, who is famed internationally for his distinctive geometric art , describes the projects aim to be to change, through art, society's image of people with disabilities". video In aposted by Ink and Movement, Alfonso Gutierrez of Laborvalia says that the project also values the talents of people with disabilities, people whose talents had not previously been seen. Okuda talks about how the project eliminates ideological, religious and language barriers. He shared an image of his renovated silo in Calzada de Calatrava on Instagram. View this post on Instagram @iamtitanes festival @asociacion_laborvalia @inkandmovement @diputacioncr +++ A post shared by OKUDA SAN MIGUEL (@okudart) on Apr 10, 2019 at 5:16am PDT HellO also share a photograph of their masterpiece in Malagon, which they describe as having an optimistic, pop and fresh touch". Here, Bilicleta Sim Freio can be seen working on their mural, called Os Gigantes de la Mancha. The artists' works are only the start of an exciting artistic movement in the Spanish region. Details of the next artistic interventions, which will permanently alter the La Mancha landscape, are soon to be confirmed. website @iamtitanes See more pictures and updates from the project on theor on their Instagram Lead mage courtesy of Antonio Rivera and Elchino Po Condo squat Brit moved to Bangkok, fined, awaiting deportation PHUKET: Australian-born British national David Maclean has been fined by the Phuket Provincial Court for overstaying in the country and transferred to Bangkok, where he awaits deportation, Immigration Police have confirmed. immigrationtourismproperty By The Phuket News Wednesday 8 May 2019, 07:02PM David Maclean speaks to officers after he was taken into custody last Thursday (May 2). Photo: Supplied David Maclean suffered extensive weight loss while he was locked in the Phuket Town condo for nearly four months. Photo: Supplied David Maclean speaks to officers after he was taken into custody last Thursday (May 2). Photo: Supplied He arrived at the Immigration facility at Soi Suan Plu in Bangkok yesterday afternoon (May 7), after he was fined about B2,500 or B3,000 by the Phuket Provincial Court for overstaying, Maj Tosapon Kitilap of the Phuket Immigration Office told The Phuket News today (May 8). His health is fine and normal. He can walk and eat well, Maj Tosapon added. Mr Maclean, 50, will be deported to United Kingdom. He has also been banned from re-entering Thailand for five years, Maj Tosapon confirmed. He has not been deported to the United Kingdom yet. We dont know when that will happen. That depends on the dertation process being conducted by the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok, he added. Mr Maclean, 50, originally from Brisbane, Australia, was safely taken into custody at about 3pm last thursday (May 2) after Phuket Immigration officers entered the ninth-floor condo at the Supalai Park at Phuket City complex on Nakorn Rd in Phuket Town from a fire truck ladder. The officers smashed a window to gain entry to the rear of the condo while regular police officers kept Mr Maclean occupied by talking to him through the front door. (See story here.) Mr Maclean, who had suffered extensive weight loss from his four months locked inside the condo, was immediately taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for medical attention. However, Maj Ekkachai Siri of the Phuket Tourist Police told The Phuket News that Mr Maclean had refused medical treatment at the hospital. Instead, he elected to face the overstaying charge and undergo the deportation process immediately. (See story here.) Mr Macleans permit to stay expired on Feb 21 while he was still locked inside the condo, which he had refused to leave since Jan 14 amid a dispute with the landlord over the failure to provide receipts for rent that he said he had paid. The owner of the condo has assured police that the rent was never paid. In an email to The Phuket News when the situation began in January, Mr Maclean explained that he needed the rent receipts to provide to Phuket Immigration as proof of his residence while applying for a long-term permit to stay in the country. Heavy weather warning ramped up, small boats advised to stay ashore, flash flooding alert issued PHUKET: Phuket Vice Governor Supoj Rotreuang Na Nongkhai is calling for people to beware torrential downpours this week due to the southwesterly winds across the Andaman Sea and the South, causing isolated heavy rain with the wind-waves reaching up to two meters high. weather By The Phuket News Wednesday 8 May 2019, 06:16PM The TMD weather radar shows plenty more rain to come. Image: TMD All ships should proceed with caution and small boats have been advised to stay ashore. A weather advisory has been issued by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warning of heavy rain and strong wind-waves from May 7-10. This is bringing isolated heavy rain to areas including Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang and Satun, Vice Governor Supoj said yesterday (May 7). The waves in the Andaman Sea will be stronger. Therefore boat operators should navigate carefully. However, it is advised that small boats should refrain from putting to sea, he added. In response, the Phuket Provincial Office is taking the warning seriously and has ordered district officials and local government organisations to have disaster-response teams ready to deploy and to monitor the situation closely, V/Gov Supoj explained. People should stay tuned to weather updates, he added. Meanwhile Phuket Marine Office Director Wiwat Chitchertwong has issued his own notice to all boat operators calling for them to be careful and for operators of small boats to refrain from putting to sea from today through Friday. Boat operators should check the boats, that the engine and other equipment on board is in good working order and make sure that all life-saving equipment is ready to use at all times, Mr Wiwat said. "In addition, all passengers should wear a life jacket all the times while in the boat, and boat operators are to stay tuned to weather updates from TMD, he added. Roongrawee Aonkot, Director of Southern Meteorological Center (West Coast), based near Phuket International Airport, at 11am today issued a weather update warning of possible flash floods. Waves are forecast to reach two meters. They could reach up to three meters high during thunderstorms in the Andaman Sea, she added. All ship captains are advised to monitor the weather forecast closely and proceed with caution, be careful in the water, Ms Roongrawee said. Italian men, both 70, still behind bars pending trial for fishing in national park PHUKET: Two Italian men, both 70 years old, have spent the past three weeks in detention cells at Phang Nga Provincial Court while still waiting for formal charges to be brought against them for fishing in a national park. crimepolicemarinenatural-resources By Tanyaluk Sakoot Wednesday 8 May 2019, 12:29PM The speedboat was found on the east side of Huyong Island with one person fishing and a haul of 46.5kg already landed on board. Photo: DNP Italian nationals Claudio Bonfatti and Mario Vincenzo Biccai were arrested by park officers on Apr 17 when they were caught fishing on a boat off Huyong Island, located within at the Similans National Park. Also arrested were boat captain Sansern Klasuek and Phuket tour and fishing guide Prasert Kuansamrong, both 35, along with boat mechanic Wichart Damyot, 52, and Myanmar national crewman Ten Si Tu, 27. Already landed on board were 115 fish, including needlefish, barracuda, northern bluefin tuna and shovelhead catfishes, among others. Officers noted the haul weighed 46.5kg and was estimated to be worth B9,300. The park officers seized the boat, Nicola, and all objects on board, including 25 fishing rods, four fishing rods without reels and two ice boxes altogether deemed to be worth B2,107,400 as evidence pending charges for fishing in the national park. All six men were taken to Kuraburi police Station to be charged. (See story here.) However, Lt Col Korkiet Boonrod of the Kuraburi Police confirmed to The Phuket News yesterday (May 7) that all six men still remain in remand at the court and have still yet to have the charges brought against them. They are being held at my request pending the conclusion of the investigation. I have asked for them to be denied posting bail while the investigation continues. Now they are being held in the cells at Phang Nga Provincial Court, Col Korkiet said. This investigation is not finished. The chief of the Mu Ko Similan National Park has accused them of fishing in the national park. So far, according to our investigation, they were not there on a tour. They are just friends who decided to go fishing together, Col Korkiet said. For this case other witnesses need to be questioned before the investigation is closed and sent to Phang Nga Provincial Court, he added. Col Korkiet declined to reveal any more details about the two Italian men and the state of care they were receiving while being detained behind bars. However, he did clarify that Mr Prasert will not be facing charges related him working as Phuket tour guide as he believes that Mr Prasert was not working as a tour guide when he was arrested. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Chances for snow increase as Christmas approaches Roads are clear now, but as the weekend draws closer, the chance of snow will potentially increase. At his contentious hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Attorney General William Barr dropped a big hint about his investigation into the conduct of the Trump-Russia investigation. Many people seem to assume that the only intelligence collection that occurred was a single confidential informant and a FISA warrant, Barr said. I would like to find out whether that is, in fact, true. It strikes me as a fairly anemic effort if that was the counterintelligence effort designed to stop the threat as it is being represented. Here is what he meant: There has been a lot of discussion on the right about the FBIs use of a confidential informant, an England-based college professor named Stefan Halper, to spy on some Trump campaign figures, including the sometime foreign policy volunteer advisers George Papadopoulos and Carter Page. There has also been talk about the FBIs use of a so-called FISA warrant a court-approved permission to wiretap against Page. There was also speculation about other possible FBI surveillance, but the Halper operation and Page FISA case were the only ones definitely known. So Barr was saying that if the FBI really took the Trump-Russia matter seriously, if they thought it was a threat to the republic, would that be all they would do? No other wiretaps or other surveillance? No other confidential informants? Nothing? Given that Barr was already looking into the question, his phrasing suggested he suspected there was more. Sure enough, just days later, The New York Times reported that in the summer of 2016 the FBI sent an undercover agent, a woman who went by the alias Azra Turk, to London to pose as Halpers research assistant and tease information out of Papadopoulos. (The Times was so reluctant to call Turk a spy that it referred to her, in a headline, as a cloaked investigator.) So now there are Halper, Turk and the Page FISA warrant. If they represent the totality of the FBIs surveillance, that would still be a pretty anemic response to what some in the bureau viewed as a full-scale Russian attack on American democracy. So the key question of the Barr investigation will be: Is there more? The answer is not publicly known. But consider this: The Mueller report noted that on Aug. 2, 2017, the Justice Department authorized the special counsel to investigate specific allegations against four Trump campaign officials: Page and Papadopoulos, plus former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and former security adviser Michael Flynn. Is it reasonable to believe that the FBI pulled out the big investigative guns, the spies and the wiretap warrant, against the two smaller figures Page and Papadopoulos and not against the far more important figures of Manafort and Flynn? Or if not against them, perhaps against others? It wasnt that long ago, on April 10, when, during another Hill appearance, Barr set off a firestorm by declaring that spying did occur on the Trump campaign. Democrats pounced; how dare Barr call the FBIs investigation spying? Perpetuating conspiracy theories is beneath the office of attorney general, tweeted Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer. It is abundantly clear that Barr was correct. He was careful to add that the unknown factor about the spying was whether it was adequately predicated that is, whether the FBI had a legitimate reason to do it. But there was no doubt that spying happened. Now, the question is whether there was more than is now publicly known. Congressional investigators are anxiously awaiting the results of an investigation into at least some of the surveillance by Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz. That report is thought to be coming in the next couple of months. They are also watching to see what Barr will investigate on his own. Both are deeply important efforts. Just as the public needed to know what is in the Mueller report, it needs to know about the FBIs secret political operations in the 2016 campaign. (Byron York is chief political correspondent for The Washington Examiner.) Metallica has kicked off the European leg of their World Wired tour - the final leg before they hit Australia and NZ - with a few rare gems, including the first live performance of 'Frantic since 2011. Their first show in Lisbon, Portugal saw the band bust out little-play gems like The 'God that Failed' and 'Lords of Summer'. By the looks of things, Kiwis should expect a few surprises when Metallica play two shows in Auckland later this year. See their full, professionally shot, performance of 'Frantic' below. Woodstock 50 promoter Michael Lang has accused his former business partners of "illegally sweeping" $17 million ($34 million NZD) from the festival's funds. Lang, who was the original co-founder of Woodstock Festival, said that his partners were trying to "suffocate and kill" the anniversary festival. The festival first ran into trouble when tickets were not available for purchase as scheduled. Later, Lang's financial partner, Dentsu released a press statement that Woodstock 50 has been cancelled, while Lang insisted that it was going to happen without Dentsu. Now, in a five-page document seen by Rolling Stone, Lang has thrown all kinds of accusations of Dentsu performing unlawful acts, one of them being "illegally sweeping approximately $17 million from the festival bank account." "We also have evidence that Dentsu representatives have gone so far as to say that should the talent back out of Woodstock, they would be seen favourably by Dentsu and that this could result in their performing the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, where Dentsu is a major organizer," Lang continued. "In these actions too, Dentsu has acted not only without honour but outside of the law." Lang claims that Dentsu intentionally blocked the ticket launch "for no apparent reason", arguing that it would cause the festival to lose money. Lang then presented "multiple plans illustrating a slight profit and substantiated these plans with supporting documents. However, for reasons not explained to us, it seemed to fall on deaf ears." Initially, I had some concerns about linking an organization like Dentsu to Woodstock He also says that Dentsu had acted incompetently for "taking over" the festival and then announcing its cancellation. Dentsu also listed its subsidiary investment baby, Amplifi Live, as co-producer and financier which had been arranged for reasons of "optics" alone. Lang concluded that the festival will still go ahead saying, "It is one thing if your company, Dentsu, wanted to back out of its commitment to Woodstock because it would not make as much money as it had hoped, but to try to suffocate and kill Woodstock so that we could not have a festival for our Golden Anniversary without you is puzzling for any company, let alone one that claims reform." The Conservative leading in polls ahead of the fall election wont reopen the countrys recent trade deal with the U.S. and Mexico, a spokesman says. Andrew Scheer, whose party is beating the Liberals in polls, has been a regular critic of the trade deal referred to as the USMCA including in a keynote foreign policy speech delivered on Tuesday. The U.S., Canada and Mexico signed the pact in November, which will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement. It still needs to be ratified. Canadians had to accept a worse deal on NAFTA after Mr. Trudeau and his negotiating team turned critical trade negotiations into a parade of photo-ops, sound bites, and orchestrated media leaks, Scheer said in his speech. He has regularly criticized Trudeau for capitulating and his failure to get a better deal. His speech was silent on whether Scheer supports either ratifying the deal as is, despite what he sees as shortcomings, or seeking changes, as some American lawmakers are attempting amid push-back from U.S. business. However, a spokesman said the opposition leader wouldnt reopen the deal if elected. Scheer will not seek to reopen NAFTA negotiations, but rather will work to mitigate the damage caused by Justin Trudeaus capitulation by working to get a deal on softwood lumber and to remove steel and aluminum tariffs, Daniel Schow, a spokesman for Scheer, said by email after the speech. Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland has said reopening the pact could really be a Pandoras box. Trudeaus government is running out of time to pass the new trade deal through parliament before the campaign begins, and has warned it may not do so if U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum remain in place. The election is scheduled for Oct. 21. The Conservatives lead the Liberals by 6 percentage points, according to a polling aggregator maintained by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp, which projects a likely minority government in parliament. Read more: Scheer takes aim at China and Trump in major foreign policy speech Scheer says he will move Canadian Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv Canada calls out on China at WTO council meeting for evidence to back canola ban Read more about: Huawei Technologies Co.s chief financial officer may still be under house arrest in Canada but shes on the move to her newly renovated $13-million mansion. The Supreme Court of British Columbia approved Meng Wanzhous petition Wednesday to modify her bail terms, which included a request to move from her $5-million, six-bedroom residence near a park, to an estate more than triple the size in one of Vancouvers toniest neighbourhoods. Shell be just two doors down from the U.S. consul generals residence, where the star-spangled banner flaps on the front lawn. The existing home is a corner lot, exposed on three sides, there isnt clarity between public and private portions, one of Mengs defence lawyers, David Martin, told the court. Currently, large numbers of people go there, sometimes approach the house. Such nuisances would be minimized with the move. The new home in the Shaughnessy neighbourhood is larger and enclosed, allowing her paid bail monitors to carry out their duties more effectively and fully within the gated property, Martin said. Meng plans to relocate on Saturday, according to an affidavit filed by her bail monitor. Mengs bail conditions, which allow her to freely roam a 62-square kilometre patch of Vancouver as long as shes accompanied by her monitors, contrasts starkly with that of two Canadians detained by China on national security grounds shortly after her arrest. Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor will soon mark five months in secret jails, where theyve had just a handful of consular visits combined. China accuses Kovrig, a former Canadian diplomat, of spying and Spavor, a North Korea travel guide, of supplying him with intelligence. Theyve been held in isolation and questioned multiple times a day in cells where the lights cant be turned off. Read more: Extradition proceedings for Huaweis Meng Wanzhou to begin in January Scheer government would ban Huawei from 5G networks Everything you need to know before Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou returns to court Wednesday Meng was in court Wednesday as her lawyers laid out their strategy for her defence, arguing that her constitutional rights were violated when she was detained for three hours at the Vancouver airport before her arrest at the request of U.S. authorities. They also plan to question double criminality, disputing that what the U.S. alleges she did lied to banks to trick them into conducting transactions for Huawei that may have violated U.S. sanctions constitutes a crime in Canada. Her next scheduled court appearance is Sept. 23. Read more about: Three hundred jobs are better than none. Thats the message from Jerry Dias after the Unifor national president and General Motors Canada president Travis Hester announced the company would be turning its Oshawa assembly plant into a parts manufacturing operation rather than shutting it down altogether. GM Canada and Unifor said the plan will cost $170 million, salvaging 300 union jobs out of 2,600 at a site where tens of thousands once worked. They also announced plans to open a road-testing track for electric and autonomous vehicles, as part of an expansion of the Canadian Technical Centre. Am I happy today? No. Am I happier than I was in November? Yes, said Dias, sitting beside Hester at a press conference Wednesday morning. The company said it would unveil details of the severance packages tomorrow. It also said it was setting up a job centre for employees and would offer retraining. In November, General Motors announced the Oshawa plant would no longer be making any vehicles after the end of this year, throwing the future of 2,600 workers into question. During the mid-1980s, GM had more than 23,000 employees in Oshawa. Read more: Opinion | Heather Scoffield: GM, union deal on Oshawa plant buys time for auto industry GM, Unifor announce investment in Oshawa plant that will bring 300 jobs As GM plant idles, what could happen to its Oshawa land? Dias insisted he hadnt backed down on his demands that GM keep the plant alive. I havent backed off one iota. But Im a realist, said Dias. Workers arriving for their afternoon shift at the Oshawa plant had mixed emotions about the announcement. Im going to repeat what Jerry Dias said, its great theyre giving us something, said Aaron Cochrane, a GM worker from Port Perry. But where are the majority of the people going to go? Not everyone can pick up their families and move. Cochrane has been working for the company for five years and said hes hoping to taking advantage of the retraining and job centre as hes a gas fitter by trade, but he added that retraining may be harder for others. Oshawa resident Jason Lane said he was a third generation GM worker who has worked at the plant for about seven years. He doesnt believe hell be one of the 300 people to stay on at the plant. I think its good for them, but for the lower seniority it doesnt work at all. He said hes willing to take a job at a plant in different part of the province if jobs are available. If the opportunity presented itself for sure. The new parts-making operation, slated to open in 2020, will initially be a stamping facility producing parts for GM vehicles. However the company and union said they are hoping to land contracts to build spare parts for other companies as well. We would not have put $170 million into this if we didnt think it had a bright, substantial future, said Hester. Auto industry analyst Dennis Desrosiers says the announcement is more than just a token gesture and good news for workers. Because of consumer protection standards in North America, car manufacturers are required to provide spare parts for at least 10 years for any vehicles they make. That means any new contract GM gets for work at the stamping plant would likely be for at least a decade. The investment in a stamping operation is really smart. Component jobs are more secure than assembly jobs and the 300 workers affected will have long-term job security, said Desrosiers, who also likes the proposed new testing track. The future of the Canadian automotive sector is the six inches between our ears and this investment fits perfectly into that category. And it also provides long term job security for the scientists in the research facility across the street from where the test track will be built, said Desrosiers. Oshawa mayor Dan Carter was happy for the people whose jobs will be salvaged, but said hes determined to do more. We will not stop until every single one of those 2,600 people has a job, if they want one, said Carter. This isnt a 10-year-commitment. But what this does is give us an opportunity, Carter said, who said he was thankful that GM also announced it would be donating a three-acre park and 87-acre wildlife preserve to the City of Oshawa. At Queens Park, opposition parties said the 300 jobs that have been salvaged in Oshawa show that Premier Doug Ford who branded any efforts to save work at the plant as false hope and maintained the ship has already left the dock should have joined Unifor in pressuring General Motors. It was very good that Jerry Dias was there to pick up the ball that Doug Ford dropped, interim Liberal leader John Fraser told reporters. Ford sent the wrong message with his reaction to the initial shutdown announcement, said NDP Leader Andrea Horwath. This government wasnt prepared to fight, she added. Its great that theres still going to be a plant there, that the worst didnt happenbut I think we could have done much, much better if we had a premier that understood his job. Economic Development Minister Todd Smith said the Progressive Conservative government which was not involved at the GM-Unifor news conference has had great conversations with General Motors all the way along. Today was about General Motors and Unifor finally coming to an agreement. Certainly its not saving auto manufacturing in General Motors in Oshawa, but it is going to save 300 jobs there, theyll be making parts, and thats great news. This is good news for those families, Smith added. With files from Rob Ferguson Read more about: A charm offensive by Boeing to persuade airlines, crews and passengers to rally behind its 737 Max plane is already running into resistance. The effort, which includes daily calls with carriers as well as meetings with pilots and flight attendants, is being hampered by a problem of the companys own making. After a bungled response to two deadly crashes involving the jet, Boeing is facing credibility problems. When Boeing dispatched one of its top lobbyists, John Moloney, to the headquarters of the influential union representing flight attendants a couple of weeks ago, he arrived determined to win their support. He met a skeptical audience. Reading your body language, you look cynical, Moloney said, according to three people who were present and took notes during the discussion with the Association of Flight Attendants. If this explanation doesnt address your concerns Ill come back, Ill bring a pilot. Sara Nelson, the head of the union, told Moloney that she was rooting for Boeing but wasnt ready to tell flight attendants and travellers to fly on the Max. I dont know, sitting here right now, that I can tell you theres complete confidence that everythings been fixed at Boeing, she told Moloney. Read more: Boeings CEO faces turbulent future Boeing didnt tell FAA, airlines that cockpit alert wasnt working Boeing believed a 737 Max warning light was standard. It wasnt The meeting, punctuated by contentious moments between the two sides, underscores how difficult it will be for Boeing to restore credibility with airlines and passengers. In recent weeks, the companys chief executive, Dennis Muilenburg, updated the heads of Southwest Airlines, American Airlines and United Airlines the three carriers in the United States that fly the Max on progress. On Tuesday, Boeing held a meeting in Amsterdam for European airlines to discuss new training for the Max, plans for a public affairs campaign and how to get idled planes ready to fly again. Similar meetings will happen Shanghai, Singapore, Moscow, Dubai and Miami in the coming weeks. Boeing, a juggernaut with deep ties in Washington and one of the countrys largest exporters, is on the defensive. The company is facing multiple federal investigations into design flaws that contributed to the accidents, along with a spate of lawsuits from the families of victims. Company executives and board members are deeply worried about the damage that has been done to Boeings once-sterling reputation. Certainly theres concern, David Calhoun, the lead independent director of Boeings board, said in an interview. There is recognition on all of our parts that were going to have to get out with restoring confidence in the Boeing brand broadly for years. But theres a limit to how much Boeing can say. Its an impossible situation because were not allowed to comment on anything related to these accidents, Calhoun said. Theres only one thing to do and thats to get a safe airplane back up in the sky, he said. I cant message my way into it. Boeing cant message its way into it. Boeing has been working furiously to get the Max flying again since its grounding in March. The company is preparing to submit a software fix in the coming weeks for U.S. regulators to approve. It hosted hundreds of airline officials and pilots last month at the 737 Max factory in Renton, Washington. And it is in constant dialogue with regulators before a meeting that the Federal Aviation Administration is hosting with global aviation authorities in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 23. Ultimately, the decision to return the Max to commercial service rests in the hands of global regulators, Gordon Johndroe, a Boeing spokesman, said in a statement. Simultaneously, Boeing is shaping a public relations strategy to reach passengers. Although the final media plan is still in the works, Boeing will not be relying solely on its executives to win back the publics trust a recognition that its leadership has lost some goodwill. The company and airlines agree that the chief executive, Muilenburg, as the face of a company under intense scrutiny, may not be the most effective messenger. Instead, the initial plan calls for pilots to play a major role in the campaign. We think a key voice in all of this will be the pilots for our airlines, and their voice is very important, Muilenburg said on Boeings earnings call last month. That bond between the passenger and the pilot is one thats critical, and so were working with our airline customers and those pilot voices to ensure that we can build on that going forward. Boeing has enlisted media agencies, including Edelman, to plan the strategy for reintroducing the Max and is considering buying ads to promote the plane. Airline executives in the United States are eager for the Max to return to service and for Boeing to succeed. But many are privately frustrated with the companys handling of the crisis, according to three people briefed on the matter. They believe that Boeing has mismanaged the public response to the crashes and are irked that the public relations blitz will fall to their pilots. Pilots, too, are reluctant to become brand ambassadors for Boeing, which barely interacted with them before the Lion Air crash in October, the first of the two deadly accidents. Our response is yeah, thats cute, but we arent going to hop into bed with you, said Mike Trevino, the spokesman for the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association. We are still going to maintain an independent voice and call it as we see it. In part, the reluctance stems from Boeings mixed messaging. Despite having said we own it, Muilenburg has not acknowledged that anything was wrong with the design of the 737 Max, saying that the design process followed standard procedures. We clearly have areas where we need to improve, including transparency, Johndroe, the Boeing spokesman, said in a statement. During the meeting last month, the flight attendants pushed Moloney to explain why the company didnt inform pilots about the software that contributed to both crashes. He acknowledged that Boeing should have told them but kept reiterating that pilots were expected to be able to handle the conditions on both doomed flights. Passenger groups have demanded that Boeing take more responsibility for the Max debacle. If they really wanted to fix the problem you would think they would admit that its their fault, said Paul Hudson, the president of Flyers Rights, a non-profit group advocating for passengers. You cant say Oh we own it, but we didnt do anything wrong and its someone elses fault. Pilots and airlines say that Boeing has also struggled to communicate with them about how basic systems on the Max work. After the first crash in Indonesia, pilots criticized Boeing for not informing them about the new software, which automatically pushes down the nose of the plane when the system deems it necessary. They have also been concerned by revelations that Boeing provided incomplete information about features in the cockpit. This week, Boeing said that it believed a key cockpit warning light was standard on all Max jets but learned several months after beginning deliveries in 2017 that the light worked only if airlines had bought a separate feature, known as the angle of attack indicator. Southwest bought the plane without the indicator, on the assumption that the warning light was activated. It was only after the Lion Air accident that Boeing told regulators and some pilots that the light wasnt functional. Boeing told United something else entirely, creating even more confusion over Boeings understanding, according a person who took notes at the meeting. When United Airlines ordered 100 Max jets in 2017, Boeing told United that the alert and the angle of attack indicator came as a package deal. United declined the options at the time. Every day it seems like a new set of questions pops up, said Dennis Tajer, a spokesman for the union representing American Airlines pilots. Im not here to be your arm candy, Im here to know about the airplane. Toward the end of the meeting with the flight attendants, Moloney made a last-ditch effort to win them over. We want you to be able to tell your members, this plane is safe to fly, Moloney said, according to the three people in attendance. Whatever it takes. Nelson, the unions leader, rattled off a list of things she needed from Boeing before agreeing. One was a letter from engineers working on the software update, saying they felt confident in the fix. Another was a full-throated apology from Boeing. Moloney promised to follow up. We think that Boeings credibility directly relates to the credibility of U.S. aviation, Nelson told him. Its important to us that the credibility and the leadership of U.S. aviation is maintained around the world. Read more about: Fearing for his life, Dennis Wamala fled Uganda with little more than the clothes on his back. Now in Toronto awaiting a refugee hearing, he recounts being stalked, beaten and tormented for his attraction to men as well as women. He pauses when asked about the work he left behind as an activist supporting others in the LGBTQ community, a decision he considers the most depressing thing in my life. The only way I can manage it is to not think about it. I try to block it out of my mind, says the 34-year-old, whose home country considers homosexuality a crime. Its easy for Wamala to wallow in dark thoughts and despair, but an upcoming photo exhibit will portray him bathed in light, smiling and looking upward. Thats really who he is, Wamala says, even though he admits he expected the photographer to produce a more sombre, brooding image. Im a forward-looking person, Wamala says. When youre an activist like me, the only reason you continue doing what youre doing is because you believe that it can get better. Wamalas hopeful image is among 20 portraits of LGBTQ refugees now featured in the exhibit at Torontos Daniels Spectrum, titled Am I Wrong to Love?, thats meant to shed light on human rights abuses facing gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and gender non-conforming people around the world. The images were shot by 17 underserved youth who graduated from a photography program run by the social justice charity Jayu in Toronto and Mississauga. The program hosts workshops under the guidance of professional photographers, held during eight-week sessions that run throughout the year. Jayu founder and executive director Gilad Cohen says the program mentored 140 budding photographers between its launch in April 2018 and the end of last year. This year its on track to mentor 250 youth. Sixteen-year-old photographer Olivia Barrett says she was inspired by meeting with the LGBTQ refugees and found a way to connect their stories of perseverance to her own life. Ive definitely faced a lot of prejudice when it comes to being a girl, being Black, its definitely very hard sometimes, says Barrett. If I can do something to make sure no one else has to go through that, I definitely want to do that. Barrett says she was intent on capturing Wamala in a candid moment, in black and white. She was not interested in focusing on his pain. They did go through a lot, obviously thats an important part, but they are more than just their story, they are more than just what theyve been through. Wamala considers himself lucky, knowing that many refugees dont have the support he does, which includes friends in the Stephen Lewis Foundation, Pride Toronto and other groups hes met through advocacy work in Uganda. Since he arrived in January, hes been volunteering with groups including Africans In Partnership Against AIDS and Dignity Network, while continuing to work remotely as vice chair of Sexual Minorities Uganda. He also does what he can to help fellow refugees in Canada. They feel depressed, they feel alone, he says. But when you share stories and tell them that you have been through worse situations, they get to understand that ... they can make it. Formerly the director of programs for Icebreakers Uganda, Wamala says hes been attacked several times over the years. Six months before he left, he started to notice strange cars following him, making him believe the clock was ticking for me I was getting anonymous calls threatening me, telling me how my life was about to come to an end, stuff like that. He stopped working the month before he left, finding the ordeal extremely terrifying. Thankfully, Wamala had a Canadian visa because of advocacy work that had brought him to Canada four times over the past five years. He wrote to the Canadian charity Rainbow Railroad, which bought him a plane ticket to Toronto and paid for two weeks at a hostel. Since then, hes been staying with a friend. Wamala says hes no longer looking over his back, and he hopes to continue pushing for change internationally. I wont stop. Im an activist born and bred and thats not something I can run away from. Am I Wrong to Love? runs May 10 to July 31. The Bank of Canada is losing a second deputy governor in 12 months, in what may be the final changes to its main policy-making body before governor Stephen Polozs mandate ends next year. Deputy governor Lynn Patterson, one of six members of the council overseeing monetary policy, will step down July 19, the Ottawa-based central bank said Wednesday in a statement. The search for a new deputy governor will come in due course. Pattersons departure comes a full year before Polozs own seven-year mandate expires, and will give the Bank of Canada time to find her replacement without overlapping with any search for a new governor. It took the central bank about six months last year to replace Deputy Governor Sylvain Leduc with academic Paul Beaudry. Patterson is one of two women on the Bank of Canadas governing council, along with Senior Deputy Governor Carolyn Wilkins. The departing policy maker was one of Polozs first hires after he became governor in 2013, joining the bank as a special adviser and representative to Canadas financial community. Patterson, who has held positions at Bank of America Corp. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. in a capital markets career that spanned more than two decades, was promoted to deputy governor in 2014. Lynn has had a tremendous influence on the Bank during her tenure, Poloz said in the statement. She has played a key role in advancing important capital market initiatives. Patterson is leaving as the Bank of Canada indicates it is probably in the middle of a prolonged pause on interest rates, after raising borrowing costs five times since 2017. In addition to Poloz, Wilkins and Beaudry, the banks governing council includes Tim Lane, who has been in that position since 2009, and Lawrence Schembri, who was appointed deputy governor in 2013. Read more about: Police were called to MPP Sam Oosterhoffs riding office in Niagara Tuesday after a group of older adults clutching books showed up to stage a read in over provincial library cuts. The group of about 15 retirees and seniors, some of whom are members of a classic book club in Wainfleet, had planned to read their books in the Niagara West Tory MPPs Beamsville office in silent protest. I dont think we looked threatening, said Janet Hodgkins, a book club member and a retired librarian who worked at Welland Public Library for 28 years. Each member of the group carried a book, some with homemade brown paper covers displaying quotes about the importance of libraries. They walked into Oosterhoffs King Street office in a plaza just after 2 p.m. and were told by a staff member that they couldnt hold a sit-in because the building is owned by someone else. The staff member said she would call police if the group didnt leave and when a man said they just wanted to read, she did. Two members of the group then left, but others asked if they could make an appointment to meet with Oosterhoff. They were told Oosterhoff is only in the riding on Fridays and is booking two months in advance. He will only meet with constituents who live in his riding because he is so busy with appointments. Some members of the group then asked if they could leave letters they had brought with them for Oosterhoff about why they are opposing library cuts. Nine people left letters along with the homemade book covers. They then exited the office. The whole interaction took about eight minutes. While outside the office talking to The St. Catharines Standard, two Niagara Regional Police officers arrived who had been called to the office and a third followed. No arrests were made. Oosterhoff, who was not in his office Tuesday, tweeted out a response. We deal with sensitive subject matter and constituents deserve privacy when in my office, he said. After the individuals would not leave my office following their protest, in order to protect individuals coming in for private meetings the staff needed assistance to clear the office. The group had cleared the office prior to police officers arriving. In an emailed statement to The Standard, Oosterhoff said the actions were taken to ensure the privacy of constituents receiving service were protected. I take many meetings with constituents, and I look forward to meeting with any of these particular constituents who wish to express their concerns to me. My suggestion would be to contact the constituency office prior to arriving to make sure I am in the office and not in Toronto or around the riding, to help set up a face-to-face meeting. The group of book lovers were protesting the provincial governments 50 per cent cut in funding to Southern Ontario Library Services, from $3.1 million to $1.5 million. Because of the cut, SOLS on April 26 terminated its delivery service which transported books between 153 libraries in Ontario. The service allowed readers to get copies of titles their local libraries didnt have. The interlibrary loan delivery program was used by all 12 of Niagaras municipal library systems to share and borrow more than 80,000 books last year. Hodgkins invited other library lovers to join her at Oosterhoffs office for a read in because the cuts are affecting her classic book club at Wainfleet Public Library. She isnt sure the club will survive past the month. The club had selected George Orwells 1984 for its May read but the nine copies which were supposed to come from various libraries across Ontario havent materialized due to the cuts. Wainfleet doesnt have nine of the same title and last month Hodgkins copy of Maltese Falcon came from Owen Sound. For all I know it might be the end of our club, Hodgkins said. Because how can we have a book club without books? Hodgkins said the same situation is happening in public libraries across the province because most have at least one book club and they all rely on interlibrary loans to get sufficient copies. Some members of the read in group which came from Port Colborne, Crystal Beach, Fonthill, St. Catharines, Wainfleet, Ridgeway and Fenwick said they lived through the 60s but had never protested anything before. Its my chance to do something like this. I feel whats happening with what the PCs are doing now is really unfortunate, said Mickey Mayne of Port Colborne, who is a member of the classic book club with Hodgkins. A 50 per cent cut in any kind of organization is a death knell. Mayne said the cuts arent likely to save taxpayers any money because the cost of services will be downloaded to municipalities. A library cut is a cut to jobs and its a cut to womens jobs. Retired teacher Kathryn Gorman of Fonthill said shes been an avid reader from age six to 72 and said the interlibrary loan service was important for research and getting large print books. I feel like a friend of mine has been kicked in the gut. The provinces minister of tourism, culture and sport, Michael Tibollo, said in a previous letter to library managements that the government is maintaining base funding for libraries at $25 million for 2019-20. He wrote the SOLS interlibrary service program is very inefficient and is administered by 12 vans criss-crossing the province at a cost of $1.3 million a year. He said the goal of the service can be preserved by using mail, at less than 25 per cent of the existing cost. He added that would be a common-sense step to modernizing service delivery while reducing program cost and he hoped the library boards would adopt a mail-and-courier approach. SOLS has said their courier service only runs in southern Ontario in more densely populated geographic areas where it has been cost effective to do so. Dr. Elana Fric-Shamji loved her three young children and her job as a family doctor. She also seemed, to the outside world, to be happily married to Mohammed Shamji, whom she met at medical school in Ottawa. But behind the facade of smiling photos and celebratory posts on what she called Fakebook, she told friends about escalating physical, sexual and emotional abuse by Shamji, then a neurosurgeon at Toronto Western Hospital, according to testimony from the preliminary inquiry into her murder. Two days after Shamji was served with divorce papers in November 2016, he strangled his wife and dumped her body in the Humber River facts he admitted to in his guilty plea to second-degree murder in April. Shamjis sentencing hearing is set to begin Wednesday morning. He faces an automatic sentence of life in prison. The only issue to be determined is how long he must wait before he can apply for parole an assessment based on a number of factors, including whether there were instances of previous abuse. The usual range for domestic second-degree murders is between 12 to 17 years. Fric-Shamjis murder exposes how difficult it can be to leave an abusive relationship and the wrenching and complex calculus that is involved at the most dangerous time. Read more: If I go missing you will know who did it, a prominent Toronto doctor said. Her husband killed her days after she filed for divorce Toronto neurosurgeon Mohammed Shamji, accused of murdering wife, denied bail Opinion | Rosie DiManno: Shattered familys grief on display at neurosurgeons bail hearing Over their 12-year marriage, Shamji isolated Fric-Shamji from people who knew about past abuse, according to the testimony of her friends and her divorce lawyer. But she was concerned about how leaving Shamji and making the abuse public would affect their children and his career. As she weighed whether to stay or go, she worried what the people she confided in about the abuse would think if she chose to remain with him. Im so smart. Im a doctor. I dont understand how this could happen, she told the divorce lawyer she hired, who advised her to make a safety plan. She told friends she was worried about Shamjis reaction to her finally leaving, despite his many pleas for another chance. If I ever go missing, or if something ever happens to me, you will know who did it, her friend Neely Savard testified Fric-Shamji told her. For Savard, the most important thing to do now is to make sure this fact is known by as many people as possible: The most dangerous time (for a woman in an abusive relationship) is when they realize they want out or a divorce. Its the time when she needs the most informed support from lawyers, therapists, friends and family and from her workplace, advocates say. Its important that the people she reaches out to have the adequate education and training to provide the support that is needed in a non-judgmental way, said Robin Mason, who researches domestic violence at Womens College Hospital. Mason has since helped develop an online training tool for physicians in Toronto that helps them recognize risk factors for domestic violence in their colleagues. (Domestic violence) is a public-health issue and its everyones business, she said. Meanwhile, resources are strained. Shelters for women and families fleeing violence are full on a daily basis, said Paula Del Cid, a residential program manager at Interval House. Cuts to legal aid have left advocates afraid that women, including those who fear deportation or losing custody of their children, will not be able to access necessary legal help, says Harmy Mendoza, the executive director of the Womens Abuse Council of Toronto. Stigma also continues to prevent women from seeking help. Women of a higher economic class can see themselves as not needing to use a shelter or other social services, said Amanda Dale, the executive director of the Canadian Feminist Alliance for International Action. Its harder to admit they need help and that something has gone very wrong, Dale said. But domestic violence and hatred of women transcends class, it transcends social advantage, she said. For those who know someone is being abused, its important to keep the lines of communication open; dont judge them, said Del Cid. Advocates suggest offering to help pack a bag, providing a safe place to stay, providing child care or helping her connect with a crisis line or other services. The costs of domestic violence are not borne by one person or one family, Mason said. We all lose, she said. And when we lose someone like Dr. Fric, we lose a lot. Two Toronto police officers who rescued two men from the brink of drowning inside a flooded elevator last August were named the citys top cops of the year Tuesday night. Constables Josh McSweeney and Ryan Barnett, won the police officer of the year award, and also shared officer of the month honours for August during an award gala staged by the Toronto Region Board of Trade. Each day I go out, just knowing I want to help someone, McSweeney told the packed room inside Bay St.-based Arcadian Court. McSweeney, an officer of 12 years, praised his partner, whom he credited for taking decisive action, saying we got to go in, we got to save them, in spite of the water rising in and around the elevator. The building and elevator shaft was flooded by a torrential downpour. The fast-moving storm which made media headlines dumped 72.3 millimetres of rain between 9 and 11 p.m. Aug. 7 in downtown Toronto, causing transit chaos as the TTC had to shut down parts of the subway because of flooding. Read more: Water was approaching our necks. Men trapped in flooded elevator describe their stunning ordeal Social media filled with posts of dramatic photos and video of water gushing out of broken pipes, waterlogged streets, streetcars stalled in water, overflowing sewers and flooded basements. A gracious Barnett, who has been with the service for 21 years, reflected the spotlight back onto his partner, whom he praised for having an equal role in rescuing the two men stuck in the submerged elevator. As far as Im concerned, there should be 12 winners, there were some amazing stories, Barnett said of the other competitors who won honours for chivalry and exemplary service throughout the other 11 months of the year. It is an honour to be police officer of the year. Even with the heroics surrounding their daring rescue, Barnett said he still thought it would be a fluke if they walked away with top honours considering the slate of strong contenders, including an officer who managed to save a man suffering from gunshot wounds. Listening to everybody else, I thought we had a chance, Barnett said. Both officers said this award beats anything they have won throughout their career. This is Barnetts third trophy, having won officer of the month honours for a previous year. This is my first award, McSweeney said. This is the (honour) highest right now. Back in Aug., 2018, the basement at the building located at 501 Alliance Ave., near the Black Creek, had taken in water from the rising currents. Employees working at the eco-friendly commercial building were warned to check on their parked vehicles, after Toronto saw a massive, rapid dump of rain. Klever Freire, whose company, DreamQii, designs drones, had been one of those working late. Freire, 34, and Gabriel Otrin, 27, an industrial designer working with Freire, decided to check on Freires Honda. They hopped into one of two elevators and rode down the top of the four-floor, loft-style building to the underground lot. The elevator did not come to its usual stop. Rather, it splash landed, with a whoosh. And then began to fill with murky water. There was a ceiling escape hatch that was apparently sealed shut. One mobile phone, with next to no service. An emergency alarm and intercom that proved useless, particularly once the water rose to that level. McSweeney and Barnett were the first to arrive, plunging into water and managed to pry open the elevator doors, while the two trapped men stood on handrails and sucked air from about 30 centimetres of air between the elevator ceiling and their necks. Constables Barnett and McSweeney, from neighbouring 11 Division, were closest to the 12 Division call. They realized that no one else would be able to respond in time, as the water level was rising by the minute. When they arrived, the elevator doors on the main level were pried open, and they could see the elevator sitting at the bottom of the shaft, in the basement. The hatch at the top didnt open enough for the men to escape that way. The officers knew they had to go into the basement, Barnett told reporters at a news conference. We stripped our vests off and our gun belts and we went in the water, Barnett said at the time. They had to feel around in the murky water for the keyhole to the basement door, but when they managed to get it open, they could see the elevator door where Freire and Otrin were trapped. We could hear them inside, screaming for help, saying that the water was getting too high and that they needed us, Barnett said. He and McSweeney tried to pull the elevator door open with their hands, but the pressure was too great. You couldnt hear them until you got up to the door, and we were banging on it, saying were the police, were here, were trying to help you out. At one point, Otrin recalled asking the officers if they thought they would be able to get them out, and didnt get an immediate reply. That worried him. McSweeney fought his way through the water back upstairs to get a crowbar, but when he returned, the water was so high that the officers were both treading water, and couldnt get leverage. McSweeney went to get another, smaller crowbar. Id say by the time we first got there (to) the time I got the second crowbar, the water had risen maybe six plus inches (15 centimetres) within a few minutes, McSweeney said. With only minutes of air left for Freire and Otrin, Barnett wedged himself into the frame of the elevator, jammed the smaller crowbar into the corner of the door, and managed to pry it open. The water was just approaching our necks, Otrin said. To say that there was about a foot of height left until we reached the ceiling would be pretty accurate. The two trapped men surged out. One had to be assisted by police to the stairs. When the officers got them safely upstairs, one of the men gave Barnett a big bear hug, and thanked them. The smoke had cleared and heavy machinery was at work as the neighbourhood around York Memorial C.I. slowly began to return to normal Wednesday, one day after a six-alarm fire ravaged the historic high school. Except normal now seems a long way off, say neighbourhood residents worrying about the extent of the damage to the landmark school and what that may mean for its bustling student population. It was a beautiful building and it has brought a lot of good memories, said Daniel Thompson, who has lived in the neighbourhood for 15 years and was forced to evacuate his house steps away from the school, just south of Eglinton Ave. W. at Trethewey Dr. I really hope it doesnt get destroyed altogether and replaced by something like condos, he said. Firefighters continued working at the school through the morning Wednesday before finally putting the fire out with the help of heavy excavation equipment brought in to demolish some of the worst hit-parts of the south side of the school. According to Toronto Fire, the structure of the overall building is stable. However, the roof is completely gone. Some floors have collapsed but many are still intact. The basement is full of water and will need to be pumped out. The library, pool and gym areas are intact with limited minor water and smoke damage. It is unclear if the schools historic stained-glass windows were damaged in the fire. Wednesday was the third day in a row crews were fighting fire at the building. Firefighters were first called to the school Monday afternoon to contain a three-alarm fire, but a second blaze was spotted by a thermal-imaging camera overnight. That blaze was upgraded to a raging six-alarm fire at around 10 a.m. Tuesday and by midday, more than 100 firefighters could be seen working to combat the blaze, as thick clouds of heavy smoke and flames could be seen pouring from the building. Toronto Fire Chief Matthew Pegg said it is too early to tell what caused either the Tuesday fire or a smaller fire on Monday, but there will be an investigation into both. Meanwhile, school officials are working to ensure that York Memorial students can resume classes by early next week. John Malloy, director of education with Toronto District School Board, said the plan is to have displaced students attend classes at nearby George Harvey C.I., which was also closed Tuesday because of smoke from York Memorial. George Harvey, which has a student population of around 500 according to the TDSB website, should be able to house the 900 students from York Memorial temporarily, Malloy said Wednesday. Classes are set to end June 7, followed by two weeks of exams. The main goal is to ensure the rest of the year is uninterrupted for the students and that the disruption has no bearing on graduation, he said. We understand this is traumatic for students, parents and staff, Malloy said. Staff from both schools were reassigned to Oakwood Collegiate for the day, and social workers were at the school on St. Clair Ave. W. to support students and staff as needed. York Memorial first opened in 1929 and included several tributes to the memory of youth killed in the First World War. Plans were in place to commemorate the schools 90th anniversary later this month. The schools auditorium included a set of three stained glass windows that commemorated two turning points in Canadian history the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759 and the Battle of Ypres in 1915. Former Metro Toronto chairman Alan Tonks and former principal Dave Drew on Tuesday started a GoFundMe pledging to help preserve, restore or recreate the several memorials and artworks included in the buildings structure. Tonks, who attended York Memorial between 1959 and 1965, said he was moved to support the rebuilding efforts of York Memorial because of the passion he holds for the school. I grew up with stories about how important this school was to my dad, he said at a news conference Wednesday. Tonks that he is concerned about losing the character of the school, such as the windows and the memorials to fallen soldiers. We are hoping all of that stays top of mind right now, he said. We want to make sure that the original memorial concept that York was created for doesnt get lost. Standing outside the school Wednesday, Theresa Wood, who grew up nearby but has since moved, said she was devastated to see the damage to the school. Theres so much damage but its good to see some of the front facade still standing. I hope they can save some of the historic parts of the building. Just across the street from the school, Bobby Sharma said Wednesday was an uncharacteristically quiet day for her York Variety Convenience store. She estimates about 60 per cent of her business comes from the school community. Im praying they build this school back up and bring kids back soon, she said. Its so depressing. Looks like a tornado has hit us. Correction May 8, 2019: This article was edited from a previous version that misstated the size of the student population at George Harvey Collegiate Institute and misstated the name of Silverthorn Community School as Silverthorn Collegiate Institute. Correction - May9, 2019: This article was edited from a previous version that misspelled Trethewey Dr. With files from Ilya Banares and Rhianna Jackson-Kelso Hamilton mobster Pasquale (Pat) Musitano has been released from hospital after being shot multiple times in an attempt on his life in Mississauga nearly two weeks ago. The 51-year-old was hit as many as four times, including to the head, around 7 a.m. on April 25 outside the office of his lawyer, Joseph Irving. The lawyer was acting for Musitano in connection with a paving and construction company allegedly involved in a multimillion-dollar scam. While Musitano was initially rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries, Peel police said last week the 51-year-old man had improved and was expected to survive. The Spectator has learned he was released from hospital on Friday, May 3. Just like when his younger brother Angelo Musitano was gunned down in his Waterdown driveway May 2, 2017 , and when Pat Musitanos own St. Clair Boulevard home was sprayed with bullets weeks later, the family is not co-operating with police. It remains unclear what Musitanos recovery will look like and whether this shooting will spur more mafia violence amid a resurgence of mob shootings in the Hamilton area. Also unclear is what power he still holds in the criminal underworld and who remains loyal to the traditional organized crime family. Since the shooting, there have been rumours and speculation swirling about what Musitano was up to in the days before his shooting, and what actually happened in the Mississauga parking lot. The Spectator has learned through police sources that he was not wearing a bulletproof vest when he was shot (as has been rumoured). At the shooting scene, Musitanos black GMC Denali was seen parked just outside the door of the law office, with a flat tire and pool of blood beside it. Sources tell the Spectator the vehicle was armoured. The vehicle was towed for forensic examination. And while Pat Musitano may have been taking more precautions since his brothers murder, he was not in hiding, as some have suggested, including in wiretap conversations recorded as part of the prosecution against Domenico (Dom) Violi and Giuseppe (Joey) Violi. Musitano was living in Hamilton, but whether he will continue to after being shot is not clear. That Pat Musitano was shot was not surprising to mafia watchers, given the ongoing violence and conversations captured on the Violi wiretaps where getting rid of Musitano was said to be impending. Since Angelo Musitanos death, there have been several other mafia-related murders and crimes in Hamilton, including the shooting deaths of Albert Iavarone and Cece Luppino. Last week, police revealed that a home invasion in April 2018 was actually an attempted murder at the home of mobster Natale Luppino. All three killed were seen as less powerful men whose murders were, perhaps, meant to send a message to the more commanding criminals in their families. Angelo Musitano had reportedly found God and was raising a young family. Albert Iavarone was the younger brother of Tony Iavarone. And Cece Luppino, son of mobster Rocco Luppino, had, at least in 2015, rejected being made. No one has been charged in the attempt on Pat Musitanos life or in the murders of Iavarone and Luppino. However, three face first degree murder charges in the shooting death of Angelo Musitano and another botched mob hit in Vaughan that saw innocent bystander Mila Barberi killed. Jabril Abdalla, who is accused of taking part in the sophisticated surveillance leading up to the murders, is the only man behind bars. Hes seeking bail. His co-accused, Michael Cudmore of Hamilton (the alleged gunman) and Daniel Tomassetti of Ancaster, fled to Mexico and are wanted on international warrants. The attempt on Pat Musitanos life came a day after the funeral for his uncle Tony Musitano, a former Hamilton mobster who said he was retired and died of natural causes at 72. The Spectator and other media has reported Pat was not seen at the funeral, however, a police source says its now believed he was there. ASUNCION, Paraguay - Paraguay declared a state of emergency Wednesday in a province along the border with Argentina as torrential rains continued to swell rivers and cause floods. About 40,000 Paraguayans have been forced to evacuate their homes in recent weeks due to rising waters. Officials say that more than 11,000 of the evacuees live in the capital of Asuncion. Although, they were moved to higher ground at military bases, public squares and roadsides, some have complained of an inefficient government response. The government treats us like animals, said evacuee Cecilia Salgueiro. It should have rolled up its sleeves and built a defensive (barrier) along the coast to avoid the waters from reaching low-lying flood-prone slums. The emergency declaration covers hard-hit Neembucu province, about 190 miles (300 kilometres) south of Asuncion. Most of its territory contains wetlands, and Gov. Luis Benitez said in a tweet that the situation is difficult and critical for six of our towns. Other evacuees are spread throughout the landlocked country along the rain-swollen Paraguay River, which originates in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul. Its normal stage is 4 metres (13 feet), but it has reached 6.75 metres (22 feet) in the capital due to unusually heavy rains since March. Were not getting any help from the National Emergency Office, complained Alejandro Ortiz, who is staying on the first floor at his home after the ground floor flooded. GUATEMALA CITY - Prosecutors said Wednesday they have opened an investigation into a Supreme Court judge who ordered the detention of former chief prosecutor and presidential candidate Thelma Aldana, who gained international renown for pressing high-profile graft cases against Guatemalas wealthy and powerful. A spokeswoman, Julia Barrera, said the probe of Judge Victor Manuel Cruz Rivera involves purported acceptance of bribes. The announcement followed a report from the newspaper El Periodico that Cruz allegedly received millions in return for issuing the detention order for Aldana on March 18. He hasnt commented on that report. Supreme Court spokesman Mario Siecavizza said the court did not have knowledge of the case. Criminal responsibility is personal, and it will be the judge who must resolve his situation, Siecavizza said. The judges secretary, Karla Douma, said he could not immediately comment. Cruz also has received security protection from a government agency that normally provides exclusive protection to the president and his family, including bodyguards and an armoured vehicle, El Periodico said. The newspaper said he had been receiving that benefit since a week after ordering Aldanas arrest. The detention order was never executed as Aldana was in El Salvador at the time. She has not returned to Guatemala. Aldana and a U.N.-supported anti-corruption commission sought, unsuccessfully, to prosecute current President Jimmy Morales, but lawmakers have not approved measures to withdraw the immunity he enjoys as sitting president. He denies wrongdoing. Rotman Perez, Aldanas lawyer, said the investigation of Cruz offers further reason to doubt his impartiality and argued that the judge should be removed from his clients case. We hope this is not simply the beginning of an investigation due to social pressure, but rather a diligent investigation and not just a passive attitude, Perez said. Cruz has heard other high-profile cases including an investigation of former Judge Blanca Stalling on accusations of influence-trafficking and a recent case involving alleged bribes paid by businesspeople to lawmakers during the administration of ex-President Otto Perez Molina. Perez Molina, who is behind bars on corruption charges, was put there in part by Aldana, whose office was instrumental in bringing the case against the then-president in tandem with a U.N.-sponsored anti-graft commission. He denies the charges. Two other ex-presidents have also been jailed on corruption allegations. The 63-year-old Aldana launched a political career after leaving her prosecutor post last year. Around the time she became a presidential candidate, a group of friends and relatives of people Aldana put behind bars filed a complaint against her over a purported hiring irregularity. The same day her candidacy was formally registered, Cruz issued the detention order for Aldana. She has said she will not return to El Salvador until she feels it is safe. RIO DE JANEIRO - The head of the human rights commission of Rio de Janeiros legislative assembly is blaming state Gov. Wilson Witzel for a surge in police killings, which totalled a record 434 in the first three months of the year. Legislator Renata Souza said in a letter sent Tuesday to the U.N. special investigator on extrajudicial killings that Witzel has made statements legitimizing police violence in the states slums and suburbs. Souza criticized Witzels campaign promise to use helicopters as a platform for sharpshooters, who could target anyone carrying a weapon. Rios biggest problem is that there is no public security policy, Souza said in a separate statement. What we have, is a governor who thinks he is a vigilante, and says that the only security protocol applicable in his government is to aim and shoot in the head. The letter came a few days after Witzel posted a video of himself flying in a helicopter with police officers aiming rifles at residential areas below. Souza and other critics say the shooting of suspects from helicopters is illegal, and can only be justified in very specific cases, such as when victims are held hostages. Witzel defended his security strategy Wednesday at an event attended by far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, a political ally. To confront the absolute degradation and unacceptable violence in the state, there is no other option but to use the maximum toughness in the fight against organized crime, Witzel said. Witzel is accustomed to describing drug traffickers who operate in the state as narco terrorists that should and will be treated as such. Souzas letter to the U.N. also cited recent cases in which the police and armed forces are accused of human rights abuses, such as the killing of a musician whose car was shot 80 times as he was driving to a baby shower with his family. Authorities are investigating the case and say the soldiers confused the car with that of criminals. Authorities are also investigating the killing of 13 individuals by police officers in February in Rios Fallet-Fogueteiro slum. Residents said the victims had already surrendered when the police started shooting. Investigators found 120 bullet marks on the walls of the house where the bodies were found. In her letter, Souza asked the U.N. to send its recommendations to the Brazilian state and to ask authorities for an official statement. MEXICO CITY - A union official accompanying protesting street vendors was shot to death Wednesday during the demonstration outside city hall in the south-central Mexico city of Cuernavaca, and another trade unionist also was killed, officials said. A TV cameraman and another person were wounded. Morelos state authorities said the shooting of union official Jesus Garcia came as vendors demonstrated over their possible expulsion from the citys main plaza. Cuernavacas mayor, Francisco Antonio Villalobos, said the other person killed also was a union official but did not release the victims identity. State prosecutor Uriel Cardona said the preliminary investigation indicated the shooting was not aimed at the protesters or media. He said it also appeared that only one shooter was involved and that was the man arrested quickly after the incident. Bullets hit two other people, including TV cameraman Rene Perez, who was covering the protest. Perez was being treated for non-life-threatening wounds at a local hospital. Federico Mayorga, the host of the program Perez works for, said violence has gotten out of hand in Cuernavaca, a city popular with tourists because of its mild climate and exuberant vegetation. Things cannot go on like this, Mayorga said. Authorities did not say what might have motivated the shooting. Disputes between groups of street vendors and rival unions have resulted in violence in the past, and vendors have also been subjected to extortion by criminal gangs. SHANGHAI - Patient Number One is a thin man, with a scabby face and bouncy knees. His head, shaved in preparation for surgery, is wrapped in a clean, white cloth. Years of drug use cost him his wife, his money and his self-respect, before landing him in this drab yellow room at a Shanghai hospital, facing the surgeon who in 72 hours will drill two small holes in his skull and feed electrodes deep into his brain. The hope is that technology will extinguish his addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. The treatment deep brain stimulation has long been used for movement disorders like Parkinsons. Now, the first clinical trial of DBS for methamphetamine addiction is being conducted at Shanghais Ruijin Hospital, along with parallel trials for opioid addiction. And this troubled man is the very first patient. The surgery involves implanting a device that acts as a kind of pacemaker for the brain, electrically stimulating targeted areas. While Western attempts to push forward with human trials of DBS for addiction have foundered, China is emerging as a hub for this research. Scientists in Europe have struggled to recruit patients for their DBS addiction studies, and complex ethical, social and scientific questions have made it hard to push forward with this kind of work in the United States, where the devices can cost $100,000 to implant. China has a long, if troubled, history of brain surgery for drug addiction. Even today, Chinas punitive anti-drug laws can force people into years of compulsory treatment, including rehabilitation through labour. It has a large patient population, government funding and ambitious medical device companies ready to pay for DBS research. There are eight registered DBS clinical trials for drug addiction being conducted in the world, according to a U.S. National Institutes of Health database. Six are in China. But the suffering wrought by the opioid epidemic may be changing the risk-reward calculus for doctors and regulators in the United States. Now, the experimental surgery Patient Number One is about to undergo is coming to America. In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration greenlighted a clinical trial in West Virginia of DBS for opioid addiction. ___ HUMAN EXPERIMENTS Patient Number One insisted that only his surname, Yan, be published; he fears losing his job if he is identified. He said doctors told him the surgery wasnt risky. But I still get nervous, he said. Its my first time to go on the operating table. Three of Yans friends introduced him to meth in a hotel room shortly after the birth of his son in 2011. They told him: Just do it once, youve had your kid, you wont have problems. Smoking made Yan feel faint and slightly unhinged. Later, he found meth brought crystalline focus to his mind, which he directed at one thing: Cards. Every time Yan smoked, he gambled. And every time he gambled, he lost all told, around $150,000 since he started using drugs, he estimated. His wife divorced him. He rarely saw his son. Yan checked into a hospital for detox, moved to another town to get away from bad influences, took Chinese traditional medicine. But he relapsed every time. My willpower is weak, he said. Last year his father, who had a friend who had undergone DBS surgery at Ruijin, gave him an ultimatum: Back to rehab or brain surgery. Of course, I chose surgery, Yan said. With surgery, I definitely have the chance to get my life back. Before there were brain implants in China there was brain lesioning. Desperate families of heroin users paid thousands of dollars for unproven and risky surgeries in which doctors destroyed small clumps of brain tissue. Brain lesioning quickly became a profit centre at some hospitals, but it also left a trail of patients with mood disorders, lost memories and altered sex drives. In 2004, Chinas Ministry of Health ordered a halt to brain lesioning for addiction at most hospitals. Nine years later, doctors at a military hospital in Xian reported that roughly half of the 1,167 patients who had their brains lesioned stayed off drugs for at least five years. DBS builds on that history. But unlike lesioning, which irreversibly kills brain cells, the devices allow brain interventions that are in theory reversible. The technology has opened a fresh field of human experimentation globally. As doctors we always need to think about the patients, said Dr. Sun Bomin, director of Ruijin Hospitals functional neurosurgery department. They are human beings. You cannot say, Oh, we do not have any help, any treatment for you guys. Sun said he has served as a consultant for two Chinese companies that make deep brain stimulators SceneRay Corp. and Beijing PINS Medical Co. He has tried to turn Ruijin into a centre of DBS research, not just for addiction, but also Tourette syndrome, depression and anorexia. In China, DBS devices can cost less than $25,000. Many patients pay cash. You can rest assured for the safety of this operation, Yans surgeon, Dr. Li Dianyou, told him. It is no problem. When it comes to effectiveness, you are not the first one, nor the last one. You can take it easy because we have done this a lot. In fact, there are risks. There is a small chance Yan could die of a brain hemorrhage. He could emerge with changes to his personality, seizures, or an infection. And in the end, he may go right back on drugs. ____ A BUZZING DRILL Some critics believe this surgery should not be allowed. They argue that such human experiments are premature, and will not address the complex biological, social and psychological factors that drive addiction. Scientists dont fully understand how DBS works and there is still debate about where electrodes should be placed to treat addiction. There is also skepticism in the global scientific community about the general quality and ethical rigour particularly around issues like informed consent of clinical trials done in China. It would be fantastic if there were something where we could flip a switch, but its probably fanciful at this stage, said Adrian Carter, who heads the neuroscience and society group at Monash University in Melbourne. Theres a lot of risks that go with promoting that idea. The failure of two large-scale, U.S. clinical trials on DBS for depression around five years ago prompted soul-searching about what threshold of scientific understanding must be met in order to design effective, ethical experiments. Weve had a reset in the field, said Dr. Nader Pouratian, a neurosurgeon at UCLA who is investigating the use of DBS for chronic pain. He said its a perfectly appropriate time to research DBS for drug addiction, but only if we can move forward in ethical, well-informed, well-designed studies. In China, meanwhile, scientists are charging ahead. At 9 a.m. on a grey October Friday in Shanghai, Dr. Li drilled through Yans skull and threaded two electrodes down to his nucleus accumbens, a small structure near the base of the forebrain that has been implicated in addiction. Yan was awake during the surgery. The buzzing of the drill made him tremble. At 4 p.m. the same day, Yan went under general anesthesia for a second surgery to implant a battery pack in his chest to power the electrodes in his skull. Three hours later, Yan still hadnt woken from the anesthesia. His father began weeping. His doctors wondered if drug abuse had somehow altered his sensitivity to anesthesia. Finally, after 10 hours, Yan opened his eyes. ___ BODY COUNT According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 500,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in the decade ending in 2017 increasingly, from synthetic opioids that come mainly from China, U.S. officials say. Thats more than the number of U.S. soldiers who died in World War II and Vietnam combined. The body count has added urgency to efforts to find new, more effective treatments for addiction. While doctors in the U.S. are interested in using DBS for addiction, work funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health is still focused on experiments in animals, not people. At least two U.S. laboratories dropped clinical trials of DBS for treating alcoholism over concerns about study design and preliminary results that didnt seem to justify the risks, investigators who led the studies told The Associated Press. The lack of scientific clarity, the important but strict regulatory regime, along with the high cost and risk of surgery make clinical trials of DBS for addiction in the U.S. difficult at the present time, said Dr. Emad Eskandar, the chairman of neurological surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. Chinas studies have offered mixed results. Sun and his colleagues have published one case study, describing a patient who used heroin and fatally overdosed three months after getting DBS. But a separate pilot study published in January by doctors at a military hospital in Xian showed that five of eight heroin users stayed off drugs for two years after DBS surgery. Based on those results, SceneRay is seeking Chinese regulatory approval of its DBS device for opioid addiction, and funding a multi-site clinical trial targeting 60 participants. SceneRay chairman Ning Yihua said his application for a clinical trial in the U.S. was blocked by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. But in February, the FDA greenlighted a small, separate trial of DBS for opioid use disorder, said Dr. Ali Rezai, who is leading the study at the West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. They hope to launch the trial in June, with funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The FDA declined comment. People are dying, Rezai said. Their lives are devastated. Its a brain issue. We need to explore all options. ___ YOU CAME TOO LATE Two unsteady days after Yans surgery, doctors switched on his DBS device. As the electrodes activated, he felt a surge of excitement. The current running through his body kept him awake; he said he spent the whole night thinking about drugs. The next day, he sat across from Dr. Li, who used a tablet computer to remotely adjust the machine thrumming inside Yans head. Cheerful? Li asked as the touched the controls on the tablet. Yes, Yan answered. Li changed the settings. Now? Agitated, Yan said. He felt heat in his chest, then a beating sensation, numbness and fatigue. Yan began to sweat. Li made a few more modifications. Any feelings now? Pretty happy now, Yan said. He was in high spirits. This machine is pretty magical. He adjusts it to make you happy and youre happy, to make you nervous and youre nervous, Yan said. It controls your happiness, anger, grief and joy. Yan left the hospital the next morning. More than six months later, he said hes still off drugs. With sobriety, his skin cleared and he put on 20 pounds. When his friends got back in touch, he refused their drugs. He tried to rekindle his relationship with his ex-wife, but she was pregnant with her new husbands child. The only shame is that you came too late, she told him. Sometimes, in his new life, he touches the hard cable in his neck that leads from the battery pack to the electrodes in his brain. And he wonders: What is the machine doing inside his head? ___ Associated Press researcher Chen Si contributed to this report. Follow Kinetz on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ekinetz LAHORE, Pakistan - A suicide bomber attacked security forces guarding a famous Sufi shrine in Pakistans eastern city of Lahore on Wednesday, killing at least 10 people and wounding 20 others, police said. Hizbul Ahrar, an offshoot of the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying their target was the police. Hundreds of pilgrims were inside and outside the shrine, where a local Sufi saint is buried, when the blast took place. Sufism is a mystical strain of Islam that often involves reverence for local holy figures and shrines. Sunni extremists view Sufism with hostility and have carried out attacks on Sufi celebrations and shrines across the Muslim world. In Pakistan, militants carry out near-daily attacks targeting security forces. Lahore police chief Ghazanfar Ali said five police and five passers-by were killed in the attack, adding that the toll could rise as some of the wounded were in critical condition. Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, the governor of Punjab province, told reporters that those who carried out Wednesdays attack were the enemy of Islam and humanity. God willing, the security forces with the co-operation of whole nation will defeat these terrorists, he added. Prime Minister Imran Khan also condemned the bombing. Pakistanis in large numbers visit the shrine, where a pair of suicide attacks in 2010 killed and wounded dozens of people. Lahore is the capital of eastern Punjab province, which has seen similar attacks in recent years. BERLIN - German authorities have dropped an investigation of a U.S. Army employee who killed a burglar during a home break-in, saying he acted within his rights to defend his family. Prosecutors said the 41-year-old American fought off three masked men at his Landstuhl home in February, but a fourth pushed past him, ran upstairs to where his wife and three children were and attacked his wife. Prosecutors say the husband, a civilian employee of the U.S. Armys Regional Health Command Europe, heard her screams, grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed the burglar twice while fighting with him. The wounded intruder fled and later died. Prosecutors said Wednesday the Americans actions were justified by self-defence. Three suspects remain under investigation in the break-in. Authorities didnt release names of anyone involved. NICOSIA, Cyprus - Cyprus will rally support from fellow European Union countries and others to counter Turkeys bid to drill in waters where the east Mediterranean island nation has exclusive economic rights, Cypriot officials said Wednesday. Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades said he will outline Turkeys actions to other EU leaders at a summit in Romania. Anastasiades had earlier denounced Turkeys drilling intentions as a flagrant violation of Cyprus sovereign rights and international law and asked the EU and the United Nations to call Turkey out. Defence Minister Savvas Angelides said Cyprus wont be dragged into a situation that could heighten regional tensions because Turkey wants to foster instability. He said the aim is to get the EU to acknowledge the need for collective action against the invasion of Turkish drill ships. Our calm mustnt be misinterpreted as weakness, Angelides said after talks with Greek counterpart Evangelos Apostolakis. Cypriot officials said the U.S., Russia, France, Greece and Egypt have also condemned Turkeys actions. EU Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini last week urged Turkey to respect Cyprus sovereign rights and refrain from any illegal action to which the bloc will respond appropriately in full solidarity with Cyprus. According to Cypriot authorities, the Turkish drillship Fatih is now anchored some 68 kilometres (42 miles) northwest of Paphos, a resort town on the islands southwestern edge. It is escorted by three support ships and a Turkish navy frigate, but hasnt started drilling yet. Turkeys Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Tuesday said his country is acting in accordance with international law to protect its rights and those of breakaway Turkish Cypriots on ethnically divided Cyprus to offshore hydrocarbon reserves. Turkey, which doesnt recognize Cyprus as a state, claims part of Cyprus exclusive economic zone falls within its own continental shelf. Cavusoglu said Turkey will dispatch a second drillship to the area. We will continue to take all kinds of necessary steps without hesitation, he said. Energy companies ExxonMobil, Noble Energy, Frances Total and Italys Eni are licensed to drill off Cyprus southern coast. Sizeable natural gas deposits have so far been found in three offshore areas. Cyprus says any future gas proceeds will be shared equitably with Turkish Cypriots after a reunification accord is reached. BERLIN - The world powers struggling to preserve a nuclear deal with Iran are facing an increasingly uphill battle, with a new deadline from Tehran on finding a solution to make up for last years unilateral U.S. withdrawal from the accord and the increasing economic hardship that has put on the Islamic Republic. After Iran notified Britain, Russia, China, the European Union, France and Germany of its intentions in a letter, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised address Wednesday that the nations have 60 days to come up with a plan to shield his country from the sanctions imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump after he pulled Washington out of the deal. If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal, Rouhani said. The 2015 deal, intended to keep Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, promised economic incentives in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear activities. Despite efforts so far by the others to keep the deal from collapsing, Irans economy has been struggling and its currency has plummeted in value after the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions. Later Wednesday, Trump issued an executive order announcing new sanctions targeting Irans steel, aluminum, copper and iron sectors, which provide foreign currency earnings for Tehran. Many international corporations are reluctant to risk running afoul of Washington and have severed ties with Iran; a complicated barter-type system set up by the Europeans to allow their businesses to skirt direct financial transactions with Iran and thus evade possible U.S. sanctions is not yet finalized. Iran has continued abiding by the stipulations of the deal, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency, but had been expressing increasing frustration with the inability of the Europeans to provide economic relief, culminating with Wednesdays threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium in 60 days unless new terms are negotiated. Despite Rouhanis threatening rhetoric and the now-ticking clock, Europeans were cautiously hoping the Iranian president was not on the verge of breaking the deal but instead seeking to show strength domestically as the economy slumps. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said his office had been in contact with all the others involved in the Iran deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, since the announcement to see what could be done to get Tehran to back down. Our opinion is and remains: We want to preserve the agreement, in particular to prevent Iran from coming into possession of nuclear weapons, he told reporters. We dont need further escalation in the region. Similarly, French Defence Minister Florence Parly told BFMTV television that nothing would be worse than Iran leaving this deal. We absolutely want to keep this agreement alive, Parly said. At a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in London, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt called Irans threat unwelcome and urged it not to take further escalatory steps, while emphasizing Britain was not ready to give up on the JCPOA. For as long as Iran keeps its commitments then so, too, will the United Kingdom, he said. Hunt said Britain and the U.S. agreed on the need to confront the threat from Iran, but its no secret we have a different approach on how best to achieve that. Pompeo was restrained in his own assessment of the letter that Iran sent to the JCPOA group outlining its intentions. I think it was intentionally ambiguous, he said. Well have to wait to see what Irans actions actually are. They have made have made a number of statements about actions they have threatened to do in order to get the world to jump. In his television address, Rouhani also tried a gambit designed to hit a sore spot for Europe, over the issue of migration and drug-smuggling. Noting that Iran now co-operates on issues like controlling immigration and targeting Afghan opium and hashish traffickers, he said: You are obliged ... for your own security, for protecting your youths against drugs as well as controlling influx of immigrants. There was no immediate response from officials in Europe, which has seen an influx of refugees and migrants from the Middle East in recent years. China, a key Iranian ally and trading partner, suggested that Washingtons recent decision to deploy an aircraft carrier group and a bomber wing to the Middle East to confront unspecified threats from Tehran had added fuel to the fire. We regret that the U.S. has further aggravated the tension on the Iranian nuclear issue, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said. We call on all parties concerned to exercise restraint, strengthen dialogue and avoid escalating tensions. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov went a step further, saying the situation surrounding the fate of the 2015 nuclear accord has been complicated by irresponsible behaviour from Washington. After meeting in Moscow with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif, Lavrov reaffirmed Russias support for the deal and blamed the U.S. for undermining it. The U.S. is to blame for the situation and it makes it difficult for both Iran to fulfil its obligations and ... for the general state of the nuclear non-proliferation regime, Lavrov said. Zarif insisted that Irans decision to partially withdraw from certain provisions did not violate the agreement, and asserted it was provoked by U.S. actions toward Iran. He also said Iran will uphold its obligations if European signatories to the deal uphold theirs. ___ Associated Press writers Matthew Lee and Jill Lawless in London, Frank Jordans in Berlin, Elaine Ganley in Paris, Lorne Cook in Brussels and Matthew Bodner in Moscow contributed. BERLIN - Police in Germany have arrested eight people on suspicion of fundraising for the Islamic State group. German news agency dpa reports that armed officers raided seven homes in the western city of Oberhausen early Wednesday. It quoted police saying the four men and four women arrested were aged between 19 and 58, were mostly related to each other and had German citizenship but Bosnian roots. BERLIN - Police say 12 people have been injured, two of them seriously, after a train crashed into a transport truck in northern Germany. The crash occurred early Wednesday when a regional train hit a truck stopped on a rail crossing in the state of Schleswig-Holstein, not far from the Danish border. A spokesman for Neumuenster police, Michael Heinrich, said it was unclear why the tractor-trailer stopped on the tracks. The driver managed to jump from the cabin shortly before the crash. German news agency dpa reported that the train partially derailed, interrupting traffic between Hamburg and Flensburg. LONDON - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged Britain and America on Wednesday not to waver in their friendship as the two nations confront a series of global and trans-Atlantic challenges that have exposed some cracks in their historically close ties. It is now exactly the opposite of the time for either of us to go wobbly, Pompeo said in a speech extolling the virtues of the special relationship between the United States and the U.K. Lets stand together to address the challenges of our time. Pompeo had earlier dismissed as unfounded the idea that British-U.S. ties were on the decline. The special relationship doesnt simply endure, its thriving, despite what you might read in the papers, he told reporters at a news conference after talks with British Prime Minister Theresa May and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. He noted the two nations strong defence and intelligence co-operation dating back more than a century, and common values that will be at the forefront of President Donald Trumps state visit to Britain in June. But in those same comments and in his speech to the Center for Policy Studies, a conservative British think-tank , Pompeo touched on differences that have caused irritation in both Washington and London. Among those are Britains potential use, despite dire U.S. warnings, of advanced Chinese telecommunications technology and its reluctance to repatriate British foreign fighters captured in Syria and Iraq fighting for the Islamic State. Britain continues to contemplate using 5G technology from Chinas telecoms giants Huawei and ZTE despite the U.S. saying that it would threaten personal and commercial privacy and could compromise allied intelligence efforts. Pompeo and other officials have said the U.S. may suspend intelligence sharing or remove American equipment and personnel from places where Chinese 5G is deployed. I know its a sensitive topic, but we have to talk about sensitive things, as friends, Pompeo said of the Huawei issue, which led to Mays firing her defence minister last week. As a matter of Chinese law, the Chinese government can rightfully demand access to data flowing through Huawei and ZTE systems. Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace? What can Her Majestys Government do to make sure sensitive technologies dont become open doors for Beijings spymasters? As Pompeo spoke, Robert Strayer, the top U.S. cybersecurity diplomat, told reporters there would likely be consequences if Britain lets Huawei into their 5G network. We have very closely integrated information sharing relationships with the U.K. and a range of other countries around the world, he said. In all those relationships, we rely on trust and protection of information. We would, if a country had Huawei in its 5G network, have to reassess how we are sharing information with those countries, to ensure we are protecting the information that we are sharing. On foreign fighters, Pompeo repeated that the U.S. expects countries to accept their citizens captured on Mideast battlefields. We have an expectation that every nation will work to take back their foreign fighters and continue to hold those foreign fighters, he said. Weve rounded them up, they are now detained and they need to be continued to be detained so they cannot present additional risk to anyone. Britain and the U.S. also have sharp differences over the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, from which Trump withdrew last year and re-imposed sanctions on Tehran. Those differences took on new significance Wednesday as Iran threatened to halt full compliance with deal unless Britain, France and Germany take steps to ensure the U.S. sanctions do not cut into the sanctions relief it was promised in the deal. Britain, France and Germany all reacted negatively to Irans announcement but said Iran remained in compliance they would continue to fulfil their end of the deal. Pompeo downplayed the differences, saying that while they disagreed on the nuclear deal, all four countries agreed on the need to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Were working together to push back on that threat, he said when asked if the allies were on the same side on Iran. Yet he and other Trump administration officials have repeatedly warned Europe against any actions that could impede or evade the crippling impact of U.S. sanctions on Irans economy. The three European nations, which remain parties to the Iran nuclear deal, have worked together to salvage the accord. Pompeo also appeared to express frustration with the chaotic delays over Britains departure from the European Union. He noted that Trump was eager to start negotiating on a free trade pact with Britain once Brexit is complete. Weve filed all the papers we can at this point. Were ready to go, he said. But we cant make progress on a new agreement until Brexit gets resolved. How it turns out is your sovereign choice, and whatever happens, we will honour your choice. Our relationship was strong before Brexit, and it will be strong after it. Ultimately, when all is settled, youll be first in line for a new trade deal, not at the end of the queue, he added. ___ Kelvin Chan contributed to this report. PARIS - A teenager who held four women hostage for hours in a convenience store in the south of France was detained after an hourslong standoff. Police said the 17-year-old was detained just before midnight without incident, hours after he freed his hostages in the town of Blagnac, on the outskirts of the city of Toulouse. The local newspaper La Depeche said Wednesday the teen was known to authorities for theft and because he had been arrested on the margins of a yellow vest protest. Authorities are not treating the incident, which started around 4:20 p.m. on Tuesday, as terrorism. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - Iran has set a 60-day deadline for world powers to renegotiate the terms of its 2015 nuclear deal, a year to the day after President Donald Trump pulled America from the landmark accord. President Hassan Rouhani says Iran will stop exporting its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, as stipulated by the agreement. If the 60-day deadline passes without action, Rouhani says Iran will resume higher uranium enrichment as well. Heres where Irans nuclear program and the unravelling accord now stand. ___ THE NUCLEAR DEAL Iran struck the nuclear deal in 2015 with the United States, the European Union, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia and China. The deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, grew out of secret talks President Barack Obamas administration held with Iran after Rouhani, a relative moderate, took office. Iran agreed to limit its enrichment of uranium under the watch of U.N. inspectors in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. International businesses rushed to do deals with Iran, most notably the billion-dollar sales by Airbus and Boeing Co. Trump, who campaigned for the White House on a promise of tearing up the deal as it didnt address Irans ballistic missile program or its involvement in regional conflicts, withdrew America from the accord on May 8, 2018. That halted the promised international business deals and dealt a heavy blow to Irans already anemic economy. In the time since, the Trump administration has said any country that imports Iranian crude oil will face U.S. sanctions. ___ IRANS NUCLEAR FACILITIES Natanz, in Irans central Isfahan province, hosts the countrys main uranium enrichment facility, which is located underground. Iran has one operating nuclear power plant in Bushehr, which it opened with the help of Russia in 2011. Under the accord, Iran reconfigured a heavy-water reactor so it couldnt produce plutonium and agreed to convert its Fordo enrichment site dug deep into a mountainside into a research centre. It also operates an over 50-year-old research reactor in Tehran. ___ IRANS URANIUM STOCKPILE Under terms of the nuclear deal, Iran can keep a stockpile of no more than 300 kilograms (660 pounds) of low-enriched uranium. Thats compared to the 10,000 kilograms (22,046 pounds) of higher-enriched uranium it once had. Currently, the accord limits Iran to enriching uranium to 3.67%, which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Weapons-grade uranium needs to be enriched to around 90%. However, once a country enriches uranium to around 20%, scientists say the time needed to reach 90% is halved. Iran has previously enriched to 20%. ___ IRANS CENTRIFUGES A centrifuge is a device that enriches uranium by rapidly spinning uranium hexafluoride gas. Under the atomic accord, Iran has been limited to operating 5,060 older-model IR-1 centrifuges. The IR-1 is based on a 1970s Dutch design that Pakistani scientist A.Q. Khan used to build Islamabads nuclear weapons program and later sold to Iran, Libya and North Korea. Iran has the technical ability to build and operate advanced versions called the IR-2M, IR-4 and IR-6 at a facility in Natanz, but is barred from doing so under the nuclear deal. Ali Akbar Salehi, the head of Irans nuclear program, told The Associated Press in September that the IR-2M and the IR-4 can enrich uranium five times faster than an IR-1, while the IR-6 can do it 10 times faster. Western experts have suggested these centrifuges produce three to five times more enriched uranium in a year than the IR-1s. Iran also mothballed many already-built centrifuges as part of the deal. ___ FROM ATOMS FOR PEACE TO STUXNET Irans nuclear program actually began with the help of the United States. Under its Atoms for Peace program, America supplied a test reactor that came online in Tehran in 1967 under the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. That help ended once Irans 1979 Islamic Revolution overthrew the shah. In the 1990s, Iran expanded its program, including buying equipment from A.Q. Khan. Among its activities, Iran may have received design information for a bomb and researched explosive detonators, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. By August 2002, Western intelligence services and an Iranian opposition group revealed a covert nuclear site at Natanz. Iran to this day denies its nuclear program had a military dimension. Iran suspended enrichment in 2003 but resumed it three years later under hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. World powers imposed crippling U.N. sanctions in response. The Stuxnet computer virus, widely believed to be a joint U.S.-Israeli creation, soon disrupted thousands of Iranian centrifuges. A string of bombings, blamed on Israel, targeted a number of scientists beginning in 2010 at the height of Western concerns over Irans program. Israel never claimed responsibility for the attacks, though Israeli officials have boasted in the past about the reach of the countrys intelligence services. Israel last year said it seized records from a secret atomic archive in Iran. ___ Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellap . TEHRAN, Iran - The Latest on Irans decision to step away from embattled nuclear deal (all times local): 7:15 p.m. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says the United States will wait to see if Iran follows through on threats to limit its compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal before deciding how to react. Speaking in London with British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Pompeo says Irans threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium in 60 days appeared aspirational and was vague on whether it would follow through. Because President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the accord last year, Pompeo says the administrations position on compliance depends on what Iran does, not what it says it may do. Iran threatened earlier Wednesday to stop full compliance with the deal unless the European parties are able to deliver on sanctions relief it had been promised. That relief has been hindered by the U.S. withdrawal and the re-imposition of sanctions. ___ 6:55 p.m. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt says Irans threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium is an unwelcome step. He urged Iran to adhere to a 2015 nuclear deal with the West, which the U.S. unilaterally withdrew from last year, to the dismay of its European allies. Speaking at a news conference Wednesday in London alongside U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Hunt said I urge Iran not to take further escalatory steps. But he said Britain was not ready to give up on the deal. Hunt said for as long as Iran keeps its commitments then so too will the United Kingdom. He said Britain and the United States agreed on the need to confront the threat from Iran, but its no secret we have a different approach on how best to achieve that. Pompeo said his discussions with Hunt on Iran had been forthright. ___ 6:25 p.m. Germany is expressing great concern at Irans threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium, and calling for further escalation to be avoided. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said Wednesday that we have learned of Irans announcement with great concern and we will look at this very closely now. He said Berlin wants to hold on to the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, which the U.S. unilaterally withdrew from last year, and is in talks with the remaining parties. Maas added that all steps must be avoided that could endanger regional stability and security. ___ 4:55 p.m. Frances defence minister has voiced deep concern over Irans threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium, saying that the question of sanctions will be raised if the nuclear deal isnt respected. Florence Parly has told BFMTV that nothing would be worse than Iran leaving this deal. Iran has threatened to resume higher enrichment of uranium in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal that President Donald Trump withdrew from a year ago. President Hassan Rouhani also said that Iran would stop exporting excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program two requirements of the deal. Parly said that we (Europeans) absolutely want to keep this agreement alive. ___ 4:30 p.m. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the United States is to blame for Irans decision to partially withdraw from the landmark 2015 nuclear accord limiting Tehrans nuclear program. Lavrov has met with Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif in Moscow and reaffirmed their support for the deal, and blamed the U.S. for undermining it. The Russian foreign minister says the U.S. is to blame for the situation and it makes it difficult for both Iran to fulfil its obligations and ... for the general state of the nuclear non-proliferation regime. Lavrov said that the ministers agreed to continue working with all remaining signatories to the deal to ensure obligations are honoured even if the U.S. wont return to the table Zarif insisted that Irans decision to partially withdraw from certain provisions did not violate the agreement, and asserted it was provoked by U.S. actions toward Iran. He also said Iran will uphold its obligations if European signatories to the deal uphold theirs. ___ 3:30 p.m. China says the U.S. has further aggravated tensions over the Iran nuclear issue. Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said Wednesday that China appreciated Irans strict implementation of its 2015 nuclear deal, which President Donald Trump withdrew from a year ago. Geng said China calls on all parties concerned to exercise restraint and avoid escalating tensions. Gengs comments came after Washington moved to deploy an aircraft carrier and a bomber wing to confront unspecified threats from Tehran. Iran threatened Wednesday to resume higher enrichment of uranium in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for the 2015 deal. A key Iranian ally and trading partner, China was a signatory to the deal and continues to support it, along with Britain, Russia, the European Union, France and Germany. 2:30 p.m. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the situation surrounding the fate of the 2015 Iran nuclear accord has been complicated by irresponsible behaviour from Washington. Lavrov is meeting with his Iranian counterpart, Mohammad Javad Zarif, in Moscow on Wednesday. The nuclear deal will be at the top of their agenda after Iran announced it would suspend some of its commitments in response to U.S. sanctions. Lavrov says they will discuss the unacceptable situation that has been exacerbated by the United States. Russia appears poised to stand by Tehran and cast blame on Washington, which withdrew from the nuclear deal last year. Moscow is a signatory to the deal, along with the European Union, Britain, France, Germany and China. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov says President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly warned there would be consequences for ill-advised steps taken by the U.S. against Iran. ___ 2 p.m. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is responding to Irans decision to withdraw partially from the nuclear deal with world powers. Netanyahu spoke Wednesday at a state Memorial Day ceremony in Jerusalem and said Israel would not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. Israels prime minister has been an outspoken critic of the 2015 agreement between Iran and world powers, and welcomed President Donald Trumps withdrawal from the deal last year. Netanyahu considers Iran to be Israels greatest threat, and Iranian leaders frequently condemn Israel and call for its destruction. Netanyahu says Israel will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives, and we will thrust our roots even deeper into the soil of our homeland. Iran has denied ever seeking nuclear weapons, insisting its atomic program is for entirely peaceful purposes. 1:15 p.m. A Russian member of parliament says Irans partial withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord is a direct response to increased pressure from Washington. Leonid Slutsky, chairman of the Russian State Dumas foreign affairs committee, told reporters Wednesday that the U.S. has been ramping up pressure on Iran since President Donald Trump withdrew America from the deal last year. He noted that U.S. sanctions were reinstated, the (Revolutionary Guard) was branded a terrorist organization, and just yesterday national security adviser John Bolton said, on Washingtons behalf, that ships and bombers would be deployed to the Iranian coast. Slutsky says there is still hope of preserving the agreement and called on all sides to return to the negotiating table. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is meeting his Iranian counterpart in Moscow on Wednesday. ___ 10:15 a.m. Irans president says the Islamic Republic will keep its excess enriched uranium and heavy water, setting a 60-day deadline for new terms for its nuclear deal. Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday that if that deadline passes without better terms, Iran will begin higher enrichment of uranium. He made the comments in a live address on Wednesday, the anniversary of President Donald Trump pulling America out of the accord. The 2015 deal saw sanctions on Iran lifted in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. The U.S. has restored crippling sanctions since withdrawing. Iran sent letters on its decision to the leaders of Britain, China, the European Union, France and Germany. All were signatories to the nuclear deal. A letter was also to go to Russia. ___ 9:30 a.m. Iranian state television says letters outlining the Islamic Republics partial withdrawal from its 2015 nuclear deal with world powers have been delivered to ambassadors. State TV made the announcement Wednesday. It did not elaborate on what steps Iran planned to take. The letters were to be delivered to the leaders of Britain, China, the European Union, France and Germany. All were signatories to the nuclear deal, which saw Iran limit its enrichment of uranium in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. A letter was also to go to Russia. The move came a year to the date President Donald Trump withdrew America from the accord. The letters will come as officials in the Islamic Republic previously warned that Iran might increase its uranium enrichment, potentially pulling away from a deal it has sought to salvage for months. ANCHORAGE, Alaska - A Palmer grand jury has indicted a Big Lake man on a first-degree murder count in the death of a Wasilla woman whose remains were found last month. Alaska State Troopers say 24-year-old Adam Drew is also charged with second-degree murder, kidnapping and weapons misconduct in the death of 57-year-old Dolly Hampton. The indictment was handed down Friday. Hamptons family reported her missing Dec. 6. She had last been seen in the Wasilla area. Troopers on April 3 recovered human remains in a remote area near Big Lake. The state medical examiner determined that they belonged to Hampton and that she was a homicide victim. Drew has been jailed on unrelated charges since Jan. 3. He will be arraigned Wednesday. ANCHORAGE, Alaska - A Coast Guard helicopter plucked five commercial fishermen from a life raft after their fishing boat ran aground in southeast Alaska. The crew of the Masonic, based in Sitka, radioed a mayday call just after 2:30 a.m. Tuesday and said their 62-foot (18.9-meter) fishing boat was going down. The Sitka-based helicopter and the Petersburg-based cutter Anacapa responded. The helicopter found the stricken vessel at about 4 a.m. The five crew members were in survival suits on a life raft tied to the stern of the vessel grounded on Coronation Island southeast of Sitka. Coast Guard Capt. Stephen White says the Masonic had received a commercial fishing vessel dockside examination before departing and had conducted an abandon ship drill. He says their preparation probably saved their lives. MINNEAPOLIS - A Minneapolis apartment complex evacuated Tuesday afternoon because of concern about a possible hazardous material is being re-opened after authorities determined there was no danger to the public, a police spokesman said. John Elder said that as a precaution police will guard overnight the one apartment where the report of a substance originated. But he said police have not yet heard back the results of testing on the substance. We dont know what it is, he said. The Minneapolis Fire Department tweeted that the evacuation Tuesday involved an unconfirmed report of ricin, a poison found naturally in castor beans. Minneapolis police and fire crews responded around 4 p.m. to a medical situation possibly caused by a hazardous material in an apartment. Elder said first responders learned the victim had gone to a hospital, and emergency crews began evacuating the building. A hazmat team entered the building, found the substance and took it to the Minnesota Health Laboratory for identification. Fire crews evacuated The Marshall, an apartment complex that caters to students, and sealed off the area. Authorities believe the possible contamination was limited to one apartment. SAN FRANCISCO - Federal immigration agents on Tuesday arrested a suspected drunken driver who was free on bail after being charged with plowing into a Northern California trailer home and killing three sleeping family members. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Paul Prince said Ismael Huazo-Jardinez, 33, is suspected of living in the country illegally. Prince said U.S. Border Patrol agents previously arrested Huazo-Jardinez in Arizona in 2011 and he voluntarily agreed to return to his native Mexico. Prince said immigrations officials dont know when Huazo-Jardinez re-entered the United States and declined to say where agents arrested him Tuesday. Huazo-Jardinez was first arrested Saturday night in the rural community of Knights Landing outside of Sacramento. The California Highway Patrol said Huazo-Jardinez was intoxicated and speeding when the truck he was driving missed a sharp curve and slammed into the Pacheco familys live-in trailer. The accident killed Jose Pacheco, 38, Anna Pacheco, 34, and their son Angel Pacheco, 10. The Pachecos 11-year-old daughter remains in critical condition. Huazo-Jardinez was released from the Sutter County Jail on $300,000 bail Sunday after a judge refused CHPs request for a $1 million bail, the Sacramento Bee reported . Jail records show Huazo-Jardinez listing a Yuba City address as his residence. Prince said Huazo-Jardinez will remain in federal custody until his immigration status is determined. NEW YORK - Oxygen Media has greenlighted a two-hour documentary that will capture Kim Kardashian Wests efforts to free prisoners she believes were wrongly accused. Its a move by the network to expand its true-crime programming. The project has the working title, Kim Kardashian: The Justice Project. It comes after her disclosure that shes studying to be a lawyer. Last year, she lobbied the White House for clemency for Alice Marie Johnson, who served more than two decades of a life sentence without parole for non-violent offences. President Donald Trump commuted her sentence and signed bipartisan legislation that gives judges more discretion when sentencing some drug offenders and boosts prisoner rehabilitation efforts. Oxygen said in a statement Kardashian West has dedicated personal resources to the cause of reform. MINNEAPOLIS - The Latest on the evacuation of an apartment complex near the University of Minnesota (all times local): 9:30 p.m. An apartment complex evacuated because of concern about a possible hazardous material is being re-opened and police will guard overnight the one apartment where the report originated. Minneapolis police spokesman John Elder says residents were allowed back in after it was determined that there is no danger to the public. But he said police have not yet heard back on the testing of a substance, adding: We dont know what it is. Earlier, the Minneapolis Fire Department tweeted that the evacuation Tuesday involved an unconfirmed report of ricin, a poison found naturally in castor beans. Minneapolis police responded around 4 p.m. to a medical situation possibly caused by a hazardous material in an apartment. Elder says first responders learned the victim had gone to a hospital, and emergency crews began evacuating the building. ___ 7 p.m. Authorities are trying to determine if the deadly toxin ricin is the hazardous material that prompted the evacuation of hundreds of people from an apartment complex near the University of Minnesota. The Minneapolis Fire Department tweeted that the evacuation Tuesday in the Dinkytown area involved an unconfirmed report of ricin, a poison found naturally in castor beans. Minneapolis police spokesman John Elder says police and fire crews responded around 4 p.m. to a medical situation possibly caused by a hazardous material in an apartment. Elder says first responders learned the victim had gone to a hospital, and emergency crews began evacuating the building. A hazmat team entered the building, found the substance and took it to the Minnesota Health Laboratory for identification. Authorities believe the possible contamination was limited to one apartment. The Star Tribune reports fire crews evacuated The Marshall, an apartment complex that caters to students, and sealed off the area. One student died Tuesday in a shooting at a suburban Denver school, law enforcement authorities said, a shooting that left seven classmates injured and came less than a month after the region marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine massacre. Two suspects, both students at the school, are in custody, according to Douglas County officials. The Denver region has been on edge as the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre was memorialized, and deadly threats were called in to other Denver-area schools. The Columbine attack, in which two teenage gunman killed 13 people, marked the beginning of a new era in the United States a time when the threat of school shootings has taught a generation of children how to flee, hide and even fight back when faced with a gunman. In a message on social media Tuesday night, the Douglas County Sheriffs Office wrote, with extreme sadness, that a student had been killed in Tuesdays attack. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not identified the student, according to the sheriffs department, but confirmed the victim is an 18-year-old male. It had been only days since another school shooting. At the University of North Carolina in Charlotte last week, a student tackled a gunman who opened fire on a classroom, police said, killing two and injuring four others. The Colorado shooting happened shortly before 2 p.m. Tuesday local time at the STEM School Highlands Ranch a charter school campus with more than 1,800 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The two suspects were able to walk in and get deep inside the school, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. Holly Nicholson-Kluth, undersheriff for the Douglas County Sheriffs Office, said the shooting started in the middle school portion of the campus, and an administrator called police after hearing shots. Quite a few shots were fired, Nicholson-Kluth said. Nicholson-Kluth said her agency has a substation blocks away from the school and responded quickly. Officers could hear gunshots as they arrived, she said. Within about two minutes, the first deputy arrived and confronted a suspect, Spurlock said. Shots were fired, and deputies struggled with the suspects before taking them into custody, he said. I have to believe the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives, Spurlock said. The injured students were 15 years old or older, he said. Spurlock said it was too early to discuss possible motives for the attack. One of the suspects is an adult, Spurlock said, and the other is a juvenile. Neither of the suspects was injured, he said. The suspects were not on the radar of law enforcement, as far as he knew, he said. A suspect vehicle was being searched in the school parking lot, Spurlock said, and both suspects houses would be searched. Officials from the Douglas County School District could not immediately be reached Tuesday evening, but they posted a notice on their website that lockouts at county schools had been lifted. All after-school activities and programs were cancelled for the day. They also advised parents of STEM school students that they could pick up their students at Northridge Recreation Center in Highlands Ranch. KUSA-TV showed footage of parents running from an elementary school where they had initially been told they could reunite with their children, to the Northridge Recreation Center. With so many students at the school, Spurlock said shortly after 6 p.m., we are frantically trying to identify every one of those and making sure we can connect them with their parents. The FBI is investigating the crime scene, Spurlock said. A handgun was used, he said, but he did not have other information about weapons. No teachers or staff members were injured, to his knowledge, Spurlock said. Colorado state leaders offered prayers and aid to law enforcement. BLAINE, Wash. - Customs and Border Protection officials say officers arrested three Mexican men as they crossed into the U.S. from Canada on a freight train carrying grain. Agency spokesperson Renne Archer says the men ranging in age from 25 to 33 were arrested Sunday. She says they were hiding in a rail car under garbage bags. Archer says the men were processed for removal from the United States and then taken to the federal governments privately-run Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma. ?le??u??? LOS ANGELES - Attorneys general from 33 states on Wednesday urged Congress to approve a proposal intended to fully open the doors of the U.S. banking system to the legal marijuana industry. Most Americans live in states where marijuana is legally available in some form. But most banks dont want anything to do with money from the cannabis industry for fear it could expose them to legal trouble from the federal government, which still considers marijuana illegal. This is simple: not incorporating an $8.3 billion industry into our banking system is hurting our public safety and economy, said California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, whose state is the nations largest legal pot shop. The bill would reward taxpayers and small and local licensed businesses who play by the rules, he said in a statement. The conflict between state and federal law has left many growers and sellers in the burgeoning pot industry in a legal dilemma, shutting them out of everyday financial services like opening a bank account or obtaining a credit card. It also has forced many businesses to operate only in cash sometimes vast amounts making them ripe targets for crime. The pending bill would allow pot businesses to access loans, lines of credit and other banking services, while sheltering financial institutions from prosecution for handling pot-linked money. In a letter to congressional leaders, the attorneys general also argue that under existing law, authorities are less able to track potential financial crimes and it is more difficult for businesses to pay and for states to collect tax deposits. The number of banks and credit unions willing to handle pot money is growing, but they still represent only a tiny fraction of the industry. One of the bills sponsors, Rep. Ed Perlmutter, a Colorado Democrat, said the endorsement from the state officials underscores the need to respect states rights on this issue and make our communities safer by allowing the marijuana industry and related businesses access to the banking system. Along with California, states signing the letter included attorneys general from Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. It was also signed by attorneys general from the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. WASHINGTON - Rep. Duncan Hunter says he will ask President Donald Trump to pardon a Navy SEAL if he is found guilty of murder in the stabbing of an Iraqi war prisoner. Hunter, R-Calif., screened combat footage collected from a helmet camera to a group of lawmakers Wednesday, saying the footage exonerates Special Operations Chief Edward Gallagher of one of the charges against him. I wanted to give them an opportunity firsthand to see there is no case, Hunter told a small group of reporters after the screening. He said he believes Gallagher is innocent and a war hero and admonished the military justice system, calling it absolutely broken and rigged. I dont trust the Navy to give him a fair trial, but I think with all of the focus on this case that he stands more of a chance of getting a fair trial now, Hunter said. Gallagher is accused of killing a teenage Islamic State fighter under his care and then holding his reenlistment ceremony with the corpse. Navy prosecutors also accuse Gallagher of shooting two civilians in Iraq and opening fire on crowds. Gallagher has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. His lawyers have said he did not murder anyone and that disgruntled SEALs made the accusations because they wanted to get rid of a demanding platoon leader. His trial is set for May 28 at Naval Base San Diego. Members of Congress have previously issued statements on Gallaghers behalf. In March, 40 lawmakers signed a letter urging the Navy to free Gallagher pending trial. Soon after, Trump announced on Twitter that Gallagher would be moved to less restrictive confinement. Trump has already used his pardon power in a military case, pardoning on Monday a former U.S. soldier convicted in 2009 of killing an Iraqi prisoner. Former Army 1st Lt. Michael Behenna was convicted of unpremeditated murder in a combat zone after killing a suspected al-Qaida terrorist in Iraq. A military court had sentenced Behenna to 25 years in prison. He was paroled in 2014 and had been scheduled to remain on parole until 2024. Hunter, who represents a district in San Diego County and was an early Trump supporter in the 2016 presidential campaign, is himself facing federal corruption charges involving the personal use of campaign money. The congressman and his wife pleaded not guilty last year to a 60-count indictment alleging they spent more than $250,000 in campaign finance funds on family trips, tequila shots, Costco shopping sprees and other items. He won re-election despite the charges. Hunters trial is scheduled for September. WASHINGTON - The owner of a Washington, D.C., area radio station that broadcasts Russia-based Sputnik International 24/7 has been ordered to register his Florida-based broadcasting company as a foreign agent. U.S. District Judge Robin Rosenberg ruled Tuesday that RM Broadcasting must register with the U.S. government. RM and a Russian government-owned news agency, Rossiya Segodnya, agreed in 2017 that the station would broadcast the agencys communications continuously without edit until 2021. The Justice Department told RM and its owner, Arnold Ferolito, in 2018 that the station was acting as a publicity agent for the Russian agency. It said RM would need to register as a foreign principal under the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, originally adopted to fight Nazi propaganda. Ferolito asked the court to rule on the matter, arguing that RM only buys and resells airtime. But the judge sided with the Justice Department, ruling that RM acts under the direction or control of the Russian entity and is its publicity agent as it airs its material without change. She said that under the law, RMs assertion that it has no input or knowledge of Rossiya Segodnyas programming and no intent to advance Russias interests is irrelevant. The Foreign Agents Registration Act was adopted during the lead up to World War II to protect national security. It requires any person or company engaging in propaganda or other activities for foreign governments and interests to register so that Americans may consider statements and actions in the light of their associations. RM Broadcasting attorney Nicole Waid said Wednesday that the company is deciding whether to appeal. ___ Information from: WTOP-FM, http://www.wtop.com OKLAHOMA CITY - Former University of Oklahoma President David Boren has asked for an opportunity to personally address the universitys regents about allegations of sexual misconduct made against him. Borens attorney Clark Brewster said Wednesday that the ex-president wants to speak to regents about the obvious and provable falsities that need to be addressed. Brewster says he sent a letter to the university Monday requesting the meeting. The university retained the private law firm Jones Day to look into allegations made by a former student teaching aide that Boren touched him appropriately on multiple occasions in 2010. Boren has denied wrongdoing. Brewster says he has received a copy of the Jones Day investigation and responded in writing last week. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation also has launched an investigation into the allegations. ANCHORAGE, Alaska - A 32-year-old Anchorage man has been indicted in the death of a child in his care 11 months ago. Anchorage police say Richard Vickery was indicted on counts of second-degree murder, manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide. Police on June 12 took a call of a child choking at an east Anchorage home. Responding officers administered CPR to the 6-year-old boy until medics arrived. The boy was transported to a hospital, where he died two days later. Homicide detectives investigated and determined the cause of death to be suspicious. An Anchorage grand jury indicted Vickery on Friday. He turned himself in to police on Monday. His attorney, Wallace Tetlow, did not immediately respond to a phone message left before office hours Wednesday. ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Inmates protesting an early cell inspection took over a wing of an Alaska maximum security prison for about nine hours and wrecked equipment inside, corrections officials said. The protesting prisoners damage fire suppressant systems, plumbing, computer lines and glass. Officials at the prison estimate the damage at roughly $100,000, Corrections Department spokeswoman Sarah Gallagher said in an email response to questions. Seward is a city of 2,500 on Resurrection Bay about 75 miles (120 kilometres) south of Anchorage. Spring Creek Correctional Center was completed in 1988. The prison can house 500 prisoners. The facility has a decentralized campus design, with three houses that are separated from the administration complex by a recreation field, according to the department. The disturbance occurred at a 64-bed general population unit that houses medium- and close-custody offenders. The unit held 62 inmates Tuesday night. Prisoners at 9 p.m. barricaded the entry to their section and began destroying property. They were protesting having to wake up for an 8 a.m. cell inspection, Gallagher said. They did not make any demands, she said. Response teams from Kenai and Anchorage arrived about 3 a.m. The teams used equipment to break through the barrier created by inmates. No one was injured in the disturbance. Inmates were exposed nonlethal chemical agents, Gallagher said. Nurses and other medical staff checked prisoners for injuries, and prisoners were decontaminated. Prisoners in the disturbance will face internal discipline, Gallagher said, and possibly additional criminal prosecution as Alaska State Troopers investigate Those offenders involved have been placed in a more restrictive housing environment, Gallagher said. No charges have been filed at this time as DOC is still conducting the investigation. TOPEKA, Kan. - A plan for fixing problems in the troubled Kansas prison system that could have created bipartisan harmony has instead inspired finger pointing and prompted complaints that the Republican-controlled Legislature botched pieces of the next state budget. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and Republican legislators agreed that the state Department of Corrections needed extra funds to boost employees pay, deal with inmate crowding and address other issues. They also agreed on a figure: almost $36 million, or an extra 8.8% for the budget year beginning in July. However, the department, Kelly and her fellow Democrats are unhappy because of strings Republican legislators attached to the new funds. One provision blocks the departments plan to address staffing problems at a maximum-security state prison for men by temporarily closing a cell house and moving inmates to private prisons. Interim Corrections Secretary Roger Werholtz said another provision could thwart the departments plans to create new space to house female inmates. Also, to spend most of the new funds, the department must first have its plans reviewed and approved by the governor and eight top legislative leaders. Its slowing down our ability to respond to the conditions that weve got, Werholtz said during an Associated Press interview. It can create some significant problems for us if we cant get the money released quickly. Kansas has more than 10,000 inmates, slightly more than the capacity of its prisons, with continued population growth expected. It has been beset by staffing shortages and had four riots at three prisons from June 2017 through November 2018. Werholtz initially received praise from GOP legislators for giving them a more complete picture of the departments problems than his Republican-appointed predecessor. But some Republicans now worry that hes resisting legislative oversight. Were talking about 35 million taxpayer dollars, said state Rep. J.R. Claeys, a central Kansas Republican and House budget committee member. There has to be a level of oversight. GOP lawmakers added the stipulations during an impasse over the budget and Kellys unsuccessful attempt to pass a Medicaid expansion bill this year. Some Democrats saw the final version of the spending bill as a revenge budget. Republicans said they wanted extra oversight because Kelly outlined her proposals for the extra spending last week, days before lawmakers finished their work. Werholtz said discussions about possible proposals began in late March. The money is pretty much there, said Sen. Rick Billinger, a Republican from western Kansas involved in drafting the budgets final version. Justifying additional pay to increase staff and things like that are pretty easy to sell, I think. Kelly said Wednesday that she is pretty confident that her administration can work with the budget provisions but called the strings attached unfortunate. When youre playing with peoples lives, you need to be a lot more careful, she said during a brief interview. The budget includes more than $16 million for the department to house 600 inmates in private prisons, though only a third of the money would be available immediately. One provision prevents the Department of Corrections from temporarily closing one of its cell houses at its maximum-security prison outside El Dorado, about 30 miles northeast of Wichita, where riots occurred in June 2017 and July 2018. The state declared an emergency there in February so it could lengthen employee shifts. Werholtz said the prison would close a cell house and move inmates to private prisons or county jails until it could hire the 35 to 40 new employees it needed to reopen the cell house. Claeys questioned the wisdom of closing a cell house when the states prisons already are crowded and said boosting pay and aggressively recruiting new officers are the real answers. The budget mandates a 15.9% pay increase for El Dorados officers, to boost their hourly wage above $18. Werholtz had proposed pay raises of up to 13% and said lawmakers didnt provide enough money to go higher across the board, potentially creating morale problems later. And the budget sets aside $3 million for renovations at the states juvenile corrections centre in Topeka, to create separated space for 120 adult female inmates so the state womens prison, also in Topeka, is not overcrowded. However, Werholtz said the department wants to use the money to hire staff and set up a substance-abuse treatment program, not make extensive renovations. He said the budgets wording might prevent him from spending the money on those items. ___ Follow John Hanna on Twitter: https://twitter.com/apjdhanna . BELFAST, Maine - A company that wants to build a large, land-based salmon farm in coastal Maine has run into potential lease trouble, and opponents are hopeful it derails the project. Nordic Aquafarms plans to build the salmon farm in Belfast, where it would be capable of producing more than 60 million pounds of fish per year. The Bangor Daily News reports two groups that oppose the fish farm filed a brief recently objecting to the firms application for a submerged lands lease. Upstream Watch and the Maine Lobstering Union say the Norwegian firm doesnt have sufficient right to cross the intertidal zone. Nordic strongly disagrees with the groups characterization. The companys director of operations says the company is confident it will be granted a permit it needs to move forward. ___ Information from: Bangor Daily News, http://www.bangordailynews.com KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Rain swamping the nations midsection forced people from their homes in Kansas, stranded dozens of Texas children at school overnight and strained levees along the surging Mississippi River in Illinois, Missouri and elsewhere Wednesday prompting yet more flash flood concerns. The flooding began in earnest in March, causing billions of dollars of damage to farmland, homes and businesses across the Midwest. Rivers in many communities have been above flood stage for more than six weeks following waves of heavy rain. Some parts of Kansas received up to 10 inches (25 centimetres) from Tuesday through Wednesday morning, said Kelly Butler, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Wichita. She described that as a ridiculous amount of water on top of grounds that already were saturated by days of rains. Several Kansas districts cancelled classes, and numerous water rescues were reported. Emergency management officials began evacuating people from their homes near the Kansas college town of Manhattan around 5 a.m. Wednesday as Wildcat Creek overflowed its banks. The Cottonwood River spilled over in Marion County, prompting more evacuations and the surging Slate Creek also forced people from their homes in Wellington and closed a stretch of the Kansas Turnpike near the Oklahoma border. It seemed like our poor fire department folks were going out constantly overnight, whether it was sandbagging, barricading streets or assisting citizens, said Keri Korthals, the emergency management director in Butler County, where crews rescued around a dozen people from vehicles stuck in rising water from the Walnut and Whitewater rivers. Flash flood watches also are in effect in Missouri, Nebraska, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, as well as flood warnings along the Mississippi River. A severe thunderstorm caused flash floods in the Houston area Tuesday, leading to abandoned vehicles and drenched homes. About 60 students had to spend the night at an elementary school after flooded roads prevented buses from leaving and parents from picking them up. The rainfall didnt compare to the deluge Houston experienced during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, but flooding is an experience one expert said was becoming the new normal. Were going to have to learn to live with flooding in Houston and we havent quite accepted that reality yet, said Jim Blackburn, co-director of the Severe Storm Prediction, Education, and Evacuation from Disasters Center at Rice University in Houston. The national Storm Prediction Center said rain remained in the forecast for Wednesday and Thursday in the Central Plains and Mississippi Valley, which could cause more problems because the soil is so saturated. While the river was slowly going down from St. Louis and to the north, it continued rising in southern Missouri and southern Illinois. The Mississippi was nearing an expected 44-foot (13.5-meter) crest in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 12 feet (3.5 metres) above technical flood stage. A concrete floodwall there protects the historic downtown, but low-lying areas of Cape Girardeau and neighbouring communities were underwater. The Illinois River remained nearly 10 feet (3 metres) above flood stage at Peoria, Illinois, where sandbags were helping to fortify downtown. One major concern in Peoria and other Illinois River towns was that the water level is expected to remain extraordinarily high into next week. Other parts of the country also were dealing with flooding. Buildings and roads were flooded along the St. Clair River in Algonac, Michigan. The river links Lake Huron and Lake St. Clair, and flooding is possible along those lakes as well as the Detroit River and western Lake Erie. Among several high water rescues reported in Oklahoma, a school bus became stranded as it carried students to school Wednesday morning near El Reno, about 30 miles (50 kilometres) west of Oklahoma City. Firefighters said the bus driver was trying to avoid high water on the road and got stuck on a verge while attempting to turn around. Students were picked up by another vehicle and taken to school. Meanwhile, a stretch of Interstate 29 in northwestern Missouri opened Wednesday for the first time since floodwaters shut it down in March . Many other roads and highways in northwestern Missouri and southwestern Iowa remain closed due to damage from late March and early April flooding on the Missouri River. ___ Salter reported from St. Louis. ___ Associated Press reporter Juan Lozano in Houston contributed to this report. CHARLESTON, W.Va. - Authorities say a West Virginia mom who passed out in a McDonalds bathroom after doing drugs in front of her kids has been charged with child neglect. WCHS-TV reports Tuesday that 32-year-old Sarah Parker is facing charges of child neglect resulting in injury after the incident on Saturday. The station cites police and says Parker snorted the drugs through her nose before losing consciousness. Police say her 2- and 3-year-old kids were in the bathroom with her when she passed out. A criminal complaint obtained by the station says marijuana and multiple glass pipes were found in her purse. A knife and a can of mace were also found on the floor next to Parker. Shes currently jailed on a $10,000 cash bond. Her attorney didnt return a voicemail. MOORPARK, Calif. - John and Molly Chester, a filmmaker and a chef, had made a decision that many urbanites only fantasize about: They decided to leave their life in Los Angeles and start a farm that would function in harmony with nature. Their family and friends thought they were crazy, but they were determined. Theyd bought 200 acres of land 50 miles away from downtown LA, in Moorpark, California, and theyd found an investor to fund the adventure. The only problem? The land was dead and they knew nothing about farming. Eight years later, visiting the idyllic and suspiciously lovely smelling Apricot Lane Farms where they grow over 100 types of vegetables, 75 types of fruit, from avocado to citrus, and raise animals including cows, sheep, chickens, ducks, guinea hens and a pig named Emma youd hardly know either of those things. But the Chesters have pulled the curtain back on what it took to get there in the documentary The Biggest Little Farm, which opens in select theatres Friday. The film, which John Chester directed, does not gloss over the hardships, the doubt and the occasional death that came with their dream of not using chemicals on the crops or drugs on the animals in this intimate look at how they made a biodynamic farm out of nothing. John Chester said its life affirming to go back and watch how far theyve come. It was about continuing to move forward in the presence of great failure and great embarrassment, he said. They didnt set out to make a film initially. John Chester had left the business behind, and, besides, he figured, they werent even experts. Still, being a documentarian at heart, he had the itch to film nonetheless and starting amassing footage of everything (mostly failures). But then five years in, things started to change: The farm was actually working. We saw the return of so much wildlife and we saw pest and predator relationships start to balance things out and I was able to capture those things, John Chester said. I knew at that moment that we had a very unique opportunity to tell a story. The technique employed at Apricot Lane Farms is something known as biomimicry, which basically relies on the idea that any problem can be solved through nature. They secret to everything, they say, is in the soil and the cover crops that rebuilt the land and preserved the water. The food we grow truly is special, said Molly Chester. Its very nutrient-dense and flavourful because we focus on soil development. The produce, meat and eggs from the farm are sold at local groceries and at various farmers markets, from Calabasas to Santa Monica. The Chesters have already seen a raised profile for themselves and the farm through film festivals like Telluride, Toronto and Sundance, and are readying themselves for even more recognition and interest as audiences meet the films stars like Emma the pig, the guardian dogs, Maggie the cow and others. In fact, they hear the same question often after screenings of the film: Is it real? They do offer private tours, including some for children, but as a working farm, its not open to the public every day. And theyre renovating space that eventually will be usable for farm-to-table dinners and movie nights. John Chester said that the tours are a way to, inspire people to support what we do and what other farms like us do. Were not the first to do this, he said. Were mimicking many mentors who have done this far longer than we have. Were just maybe the first in this neighbourhood. As for whether or not theyd recommend following in their footsteps, both say yes, but with some caveats. I would recommend it on a smaller scale and not with 250 things, John Chester said. You can find as much joy in a quarter acre as you can on 200 acres. You have to design the farm and where it is based around the life you want to live. Learn from other farmers, volunteer, use their mistakes as your lessons. Thats something I wish we would have gotten to do more of. Less pressure, more time under somebody elses dime. ___ Follow AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ldbahr RICHMOND, Va. - The Virginia police officer who cursed at a group of black middle schoolers and promised to publicly apologize has rescinded the offer. Richmond police Chief William Smith tells The Richmond Times-Dispatch that the officer, whose name hasnt been released, no longer feels he can handle the large setting. A March video shows the officer telling the Albert Hill students wait until your asses turn 18, then youre mine. Student Cameron Hilliard filmed the video and says someone outside of her group yelled an obscenity directed at officers, launching the confrontation. The officer apologized to the students and their guardians last week and signed an agreement to publicly apologize at a school assembly. The chief says the officer is sorry for not being able to meet with the school. ___ Information from: Richmond Times-Dispatch, http://www.richmond.com SPRINGFIELD, Pa. - A Pennsylvania school principal will no longer say God bless America after leading students in the Pledge of Allegiance. Peter Briggs practice at Sabold Elementary School in Springfield led at least one parent to complain to the Freedom From Religion Foundation, whose attorney contacted the district. The group claimed it violated the U.S. Constitutions prohibition of government sponsoring religious messages. The district decided to cease the practice after consulting with its lawyer. In a statement , the district says it is not prohibiting students from reciting God bless America after the pledge on their own. The foundation says young elementary school children dont need to be coerced into affirming Gods name every morning. ___ This story has been corrected to show the groups name is Freedom From Religion Foundation, not Freedom for Religion Foundation. DENVER - The Latest on a Denver vote to decriminalize magic mushrooms (all times local): 10:55 p.m. An effort to decriminalize psilocybin, the psychoactive ingredient in magic mushrooms, appears to be losing in Denver. The citizen-led initiative sought to make Denver the first U.S. city where use or possession of psilocybin by people 21 and older was the lowest law enforcement priority. Unofficial results late Tuesday showed the no votes with a wide margin over the yes votes. Psilocybin has been federally outlawed since the 1960s, when it was widely known as a recreational drug. The ban stymied medical research but small studies in recent years have found the substance had positive effects on anxiety and depression for cancer patients. Supporters of the Denver initiative say its wrong to jail an adult for using a substance they believe helps with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and other conditions. Denver Mayor Michael Hancock opposes the initiative, along with District Attorney Beth McCann. ___ 11:15 p.m. Monday Voters could make Denver the first U.S. city to decriminalize the use of psilocybin the psychoactive substance in magic mushrooms. A citizen initiative on the ballot Tuesday has followed the same tack taken by cannabis activists in Denver to decriminalize pot possession in 2005. The move was followed by statewide legalization in 2012. Psilocybin campaign organizers said their only goal is to keep people out of jail for use or possession of the drug. They have focused on people who believe psilocybin helps them cope with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and other conditions. Psilocybin has been outlawed in the U.S. since the 1960s, when it was widely seen as a recreational drug. Researchers warn it should only be used under medical supervision and can spark paranoia and anxiety. MINNEAPOLIS - The Latest on a lawsuit filed by the family of Jamar Clark, a black man who was shot and killed by a Minneapolis police officer in 2015 (all times local): 12:15 p.m. Minneapolis city leaders have agreed to mediation to resolve a lawsuit filed by the family of a black man who was shot and killed by a Minneapolis police officer in 2015. A federal judge had summoned city leaders to court Wednesday, after he learned that a settlement offer in the case of Jamar Clark had been rejected. That rejection came the same day the City Council announced a $20 million settlement in the 2017 death of Justine Ruszczyk Damond, who was white. She was killed by a police officer after she approached his squad car. That officer was convicted of murder. Clark was shot in the head after a struggle with two officers. The county attorney declined to file charges. An attorney for Clarks father said that he will also file motions in the case to resolve trustee issues. ___ 11:20 a.m. Minneapolis city leaders are in a federal judges chambers to discuss a lawsuit over the police shooting of a black man in 2015. U.S. District Judge Michael Davis ordered city leaders to appear in court Wednesday to discuss the case of 24-year-old Jamar Clark. Before going into chambers, attorneys said in court that the City Council rejected a settlement offer in the Clark case on Friday the same day they announced a $20 million settlement in the 2017 death of Justine Ruszczyk Damond, who was white. She was killed by a police officer after she approached his squad car. That officer was convicted of murder. Clark was shot in the head after a struggle with two officers. The county attorney declined to charge the officers, saying an investigation found Clark tried to get an officers gun. William Starr, an attorney for Clarks father, James Clark, said in court that the settlement offer in his case was nominal. He says after it was rejected, he now wants a transformative settlement and the case could go to trial. ___ 10:10 a.m. A federal judge in Minnesota has ordered city leaders in Minneapolis to appear in court Wednesday to discuss the status of a lawsuit over the police shooting of a black man in 2015. Judge Michael Davis order comes after the city agreed to pay $20 million to settle a lawsuit over the 2017 death of Justine Ruszczyk Damond. Damond, who was white, was shot by a police officer when she approached his squad car minutes after calling 911 to report a possible crime. That officer was convicted of murder. The civil suit at issue now involves 24-year-old Jamar Clark, who was shot in the head after a struggle with two officers. The county attorney declined to charge the officers, saying an investigation found Clark was shot after trying to get an officers gun. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. - President Donald Trump promised a swift infusion of federal aid to the Florida Panhandle seven months after devastating Hurricane Michael as he rallied supporters Wednesday for his re-election. Trump addressed a crowd of thousands at an outdoor amphitheatre, looking to rally loyalists in the reliably Republican corner of the swing state as he kicks his 2020 efforts into high gear. Federal emergency funds to the area hit by the Category 5 hurricane and elsewhere have been caught up in a Washington standoff over Trumps opposition to more hurricane aid for Puerto Rico. Youre getting your money one way or another, Trump promised supporters in Panama City Beach, holding up a chart showing federal emergency aid to Florida, Texas and the island territory, And were not going to let anybody hold it up. Trump took a victory lap after last weeks jobs report showing the nations unemployment at a generational low, crediting his cuts to taxes and regulations. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who accompanied the president to Florida on Air Force One, said the 2020 election was a referendum on whether to allow Democrats to undo Trump policies like tax reform. This election is about reversing all of that, he said. Its about going backward on all of that. Trump also told his supporters not to worry about this weeks talks between U.S. and Chinese negotiators, including his threat to increase tariffs on nearly all Chinese imports at the end of the week. They broke the deal in talks meant to de-escalate a year-long trade war, he said. We wont back down until China stops, Trump said. The era of economic surrender is over. Trump earlier surveyed recovery efforts and lingering damage from last years storm, and he announced that the Department of Housing and Urban Development would be granting $448 million to the state for hurricane response. Weve already given you billions and billions of dollars and theres a lot more coming, Trump said. Trump was greeted by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and local elected officials as he arrived at Tyndall Air Force Base, which was severely affected by the storm. Almost every building appeared damaged in some way, including a collapsed hangar. The White House said almost all 700 structures on the base were damaged, roughly one-third were destroyed, and 11,000 base personnel were evacuated. The White House blamed Democrat obstruction for a stoppage in recovery work, with about 120 projects being deferred. After touring the base, Trump took credit for rebuffing some who wanted to close the base as a result of the damage, promising officials it will be rebuilt better than ever. The area has received about $1.1 billion in federal disaster aid through mid-April, but disagreements in Washington have left many still struggling to recover from the storm. Trump repeated his claim that $91 billion has been spent in Puerto Rico, and said falsely it was the largest-ever federal disaster program. According to the White House, Trumps $91 billion figure includes about $50 billion in expected future disaster disbursements that could span decades, along with $41 billion already approved. Actual aid to Puerto Rico has flowed more slowly from federal coffers about $11 billion so far. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said House Democrats were once again taking up a $17.2 billion disaster relief package this week, with added money for Midwestern and Southern states hit by recent storms. But she said Senate Republicans have been more committed to hurting our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico than healing communities everywhere. Meanwhile, the president has doubled down on Republicans callousness by delaying assistance payments to the island, she said. The campaign rally comes as Trump and congressional Democrats are locked in a bitter fight over constitutional powers related to special counsel Robert Muellers report and probes into the presidents tax returns. Trump called on Democrats to stop the investigations and work with his administration to boost infrastructure spending, predicting their efforts would boost his re-election chances. They want to do investigations instead of investments, said Trump. I think it drives us right on to victory in 2020. Its hard to believe that an act written before smart phones were invented is being cited as the legislation which gives border officers the right to scroll through your cellphone and laptop. But the Canada Border Services Agency insists the Customs Act allows its officers to do just that. Not surprisingly, human rights and civil liberties organizations have been sounding the alarm. They say the fact that officers dont even need a warrant to access personal devices is an infringement on privacy and a persons right not to incriminate themselves. Theyre right. The government should update the act to require officers get a warrant if they want to look at a digital device. After all, electronic devices contain digital records that lay bare a persons life through everything from emails to bank accounts to personal photos. Most recently, Toronto lawyer Nick Wrights laptop and cellphone were seized by a customs officer after he refused to hand over his passwords because they contained confidential information protected by solicitor-client privilege. And in 2015, Alain Philippon was actually charged with obstruction after he balked at providing an officer with his password. Even police dont have that right. No wonder the consumer advocacy group Open Media has launched a campaign to raise awareness about the issue and pressure the government to update the Customs Act rules. For its part, Public Safety Canada says the examination of personal electronic devices at the border is not routine and that officers checked the devices of just a tiny fraction (only 0.015 per cent) of all travellers who crossed the border from November 2017 to March 2019. But thats hardly reassuring for the almost 20,000 passengers whose devices were examined by customs officers during that period. Nor is it reassuring that the policy says customs officers can examine devices only when there are grounds or indications that evidence of contraventions may be found on the digital device or media. It should be up to a judge, not a customs officer, to make that decision. Wright, who had to shell out more than $3,000 to replace the devices and is now considering legal action against the government, says he was told his devices would be sent to a government lab which would try to crack his passwords and search his files. Scott Bardsley, a spokesman for Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, says border officers are instructed not to examine documents if they suspect they may be subject to solicitor-privilege. But again, it shouldnt be up to a border officer to decide. It should be up to a judge. A Supreme Court of Canada ruling in 2014 decided by a margin of 4-3 gave police officers the right to access a suspects cellphone without a warrant. But it did not address how officers of the Canada Border Service Agency operate. In fact, as Brenda McPhail, the director of privacy, technology and surveillance with the Canadian Civil Liberties Association points out, the circumstances the Supreme Court decision dealt with simply dont apply to border officers. At the border there is no concern about the possible destruction of evidence, she says. Customs officers already have the digital device in their lawful possession. In other words, there is plenty of time to get a warrant. Still, there is one warning from the dissenting judges in the 2014 case that should apply to the Customs Act: As technology changes, our law must also evolve so that modern mobile devices do not become the telescreens of George Orwells 1984. That is a chilling enough reason alone for politicians to finally act and require customs officers to get a warrant before they stroll and scroll through our personal lives. Read more about: The latest casualty of library service cuts: Book clubs, May 2 How does Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport Michael Tibollo have the nerve to say that libraries axed services, when the reality is that the province is the party that cut funding? Further, the minister is upset that there were no consultations by the library board. Isnt that the new way of doing business in Ontario: Announce changes and then seek consultation after? I guess the way to do things now in Ontario is shoot first and ask questions later. Joel Hertz, Toronto I generally ignore most of Premier Doug Fords stupidity. However, to cut rural library funding is despicable. I grew up poor in rural Ontario; going to the nearest local library once a week was a highlight in my life. Reading introduced me to the big interesting world beyond. I was inspired to study hard. I went to university on a scholarship. Eventually, I obtained a good job. I credit the library with much of my life success. I still read daily and use the Toronto Public Library system constantly. However, I have not forgotten my rural roots. To say that internet usage is equivalent to a book is totally wrong, especially in the era of fake news. Is corner store beer really more important than library access? Carol Cornvery, Toronto There is no need to eliminate book clubs just because the Ford government is cutting funds for libraries. Members could still get together and perhaps buy one copy of a book out of their own pockets, pass it around, or read aloud at each meeting until they finish the book, then donate it to the library. A book club consists of intelligent, articulate and aware citizens; it is a great place to grow political activism. If we want libraries and other essential services, we have to get ready to vote the Conservatives out of office next time around. Cathy White, Toronto Read more about: We can see Doug Ford is a man who is comfortable swinging an axe through some of our most cherished social programs. But to truly understand Ontarios smiling premier to look deep into his soul, as it were we must consider why he is being so brutal. He insists he has no choice, that the Ontarios mounting deficits force him to cut the provinces budgets for health care, education, child care, libraries, legal aid, student loans, flood control, tree planting and anything else that moves, grows or matters in our lives. (A similar claim of necessity was made by the debt-plagued New Zealand government in the 1990s when it ordered the shooting of a newborn hippo at the zoo, explaining it couldnt afford to expand the pen.) Nevertheless, preventing debt from spiralling out of control sounds like a plausible explanation for Fords spending cuts until one notices his tax cuts. Thats when it becomes clear the premier is, well, lying. Lets not forget that a deficit is simply the shortfall in the provinces budget and it can be the result of too much spending or too little revenue. The Ford government wants us to believe that Ontarios deficit is caused by too much spending. But after years of stagnant social spending in Ontario, thats a hard case to make. Indeed, by any reasonable measure, Ontario is a laggard in social spending. As Ontarios non-partisan Financial Accountability Office (FAO) notes, Ontario already has the lowest program spending (per capita) among Canadas 10 provinces before Fords spending cuts click in. So pointing to Ontarios ultralow social spending as the cause of Ontarios deficit is about as credible as Donald Trumps claim that his inaugural crowd was bigger than Obamas. If not spending, then what is driving Ontarios deficit? Again, the FAO provides some revealing clues, noting that Ontario also has the lowest revenue (per capita) of any of the provinces. While the provincial average for revenue (per capita) is $12,373, Ontario only collects $10,415 (per capita) a significantly smaller amount. Therein lies the dirty secret of Ontarios deficit too little revenue. And Ford is making the problem worse by cutting taxes a further $3.6 billion a year, notes Sheila Block, senior economist with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA). Even Moodys, the Wall Street credit rating agency, pointed to Ontarios low revenue and Fords tax cuts driving it lower as the main deficit culprit when it downgraded the provinces credit rating last December. All this suggests Ford is faking his concern about the deficit. He harps on it to justify his spending cuts, but actually makes it worse by collecting less tax revenue. (Sadly, the media rarely focus on the provinces revenue shortfall, helping Ford perpetuate the myth that deficits are always a spending problem.) Fords measures despite his claim to be acting for the people redirect resources from ordinary people to corporations and the rich. The spending cuts will save the province money so Ford can reduce corporate taxes, even though a decade of corporate tax cuts has failed to produce the promised additional business investment. Never mind. There will be more for corporations to distribute among their shareholders. And, in the name of protecting what matters most, Ford is reopening a host of loopholes favouring high-income individuals like the scam that enables business owners to sprinkle income among adult family members, who face a lower tax rate, even when those relatives dont work for the family business. In an op-ed in the Star earlier this week, Fords Treasury Board president Peter Bethlenfalvy insisted the governments measures arent driven by ideology, just by math. Well, heres some different math. Another approach would be to actually address the provinces real deficit problem: its revenue shortfall. The CCPA shows how this could be done by cancelling Fords tax cuts, adding a very small increase in corporate and personal taxes (excluding those with taxable incomes below $50,000). The result would be a declining deficit, and the restoration even expansion of our social programs. It could be called a budget for the people. But in this case, it would actually be true. Read more about: Maxime Bernier: political leader, provocateur, enemy of white pants. Its not the epitaph Id want on my tombstone, but it might someday be inscribed on Berniers: a man fundamentally and obsessively opposed to the idea of free tampons. If you dont believe me, take a look at Berniers Twitter page, home to various screeds about a recent federal government proposal to make menstrual products free and accessible in federally regulated Canadian workplaces. The reason for this proposal is simple. There still exists around the world and, yes, even in Canada, stigma around menstruation, not to mention a disturbing lack of access to the typically expensive products women use when they are on their periods. Period Poverty is a real problem in this country. A study published last year by Plan International Canada, determined that one third of women under 25 had a hard time coming up with money for menstrual products. Of course Bernier doesnt appear to care about this public health crisis, because in his mind, a government handout, no matter how humane, is still a handout. The leader of the Peoples Party of Canada tweeted several frenzied objections to the proposal this month. Here are a few of them. So many people have become so used to get freebies, and to have the government hold their hands throughout their lives, that its become normal for a political party to campaign on free tampons. Not for me. Time to bring back COMMON SENSE and PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY. Hurrah! Our caring and generous government is removing another major social inequity by solving the Great Menstrual Products Unavailability Crisis of the early 21st century. How in the world were previous generations able to manage their lives without such help from Ottawa?! Gender equality bla bla bla they use these products regularly bla bla bla why not hand them out for free to buy their votes. At this point its entirely fair for Canadians to ask: Is this man a political leader? Or is he a stingy bathroom attendant posing as one? I used to think Bernier was fixated on a host of issues, from the alleged threat of mass immigration to political correctness. But these days, at least where his social media presence is concerned, its menstruation all the time. Perhaps he isnt a political leader; perhaps he is a plant hired by Tampax competitor Diva Cup to advocate against the use of disposable menstrual products. Or more likely, he lacks the empathy required to understand the governments policy and why it would make this country a better place. According to the Canada Gazette, the government publication where the proposal was announced earlier this month: Lack of access to menstrual products can create barriers for employees to participate fully in society, including in the labour force. For employees in remote locations, the negative impact to their physical and psychological health may be heightened due to greater barriers. The governments making these products free and accessible would not only chip away at the stigma around menstruation, it would make international news and spark debate about a topic wrongly deemed awkward and unclean. It would set a precedent that menstrual products are essential to the health, happiness, and productivity of Canadians who get their periods. In April, the B.C. government announced that by the end of the year, all schools are required to provide free menstrual products to students. This isnt the policy of a people that shirk common sense and personal responsibility, but a people, rather, that champion human decency: that believe it is contrary to Canadian values to allow teenagers to bleed through their pants because they cant afford a box of Tampax. This should be the policy in schools everywhere, in Canada and abroad. But its not. In the same vein, some version of this policy should exist in most modern workplaces too, but it doesnt. Read more: Maxime Berniers party sticks with spokesman accused of supporting Nazi sympathizers Maxime Bernier fails to gain momentum in Conservative territory Opinion | Maxime Berniers alt-right problem Isnt it funny that so many new-agey offices are quick to offer unconventional workspaces, flexible hours, and complimentary La Croix in the fridge, but go to the bathroom and theres nary a tampon in sight? Womens stuff is still widely considered to be superfluous stuff. Its not essential stuff. A government policy normalizing menstruation might change that. Unfortunately it wont change Maxime Bernier. If life were a movie on the Womens Channel, Bernier would wake up tomorrow morning a menstruating woman and by end of week, after befriending a generous ladies room attendant who slipped him a Tampax Pearl in his time of need, learn the error of his ways. But life is just life. And Bernier is Bernier. He will keep on doing what he does best: waging war on white pants. Stock your handbags accordingly. Maybe resistance is not completely futile after all. When General Motors confirmed one Sunday in November that it was going to shut down its plant in Oshawa, the company took its workers, and the federal and provincial governments by nasty surprise. Almost immediately, both governments signalled they believed the closure was a done deal. Oshawa couldnt be saved. They were wrong, sort of. Throwing in the towel on the future of the Oshawa plant was never really an option for the 2,500 workers and their union representatives at Unifor. Now, after millions of dollars spent on organizing, campaigning, lobbying of all kinds, and extensive in-your-face advertising, the union can actually claim a small victory or at least not total defeat. Read more: GM, Unifor announce investment in Oshawa plant to save 300 jobs Opinion | For the GM Oshawa plant, hope is not a strategy: Wells As GM plant idles, what could happen to its Oshawa land? Anger, sadness and uncertainty as Oshawa plant closure announced Despite the deep animosity between GM and Unifor over the closure, company and union executives appeared together in Toronto on Wednesday morning to say the plant will stay open albeit on a much smaller scale. Enough to keep the lights on and without government rescue money. While $170 million, 300 jobs and many years of aftermarket work ahead for the Oshawa facility is certainly not going to save the auto industry in Canada, it will buy some much-needed time to figure out a better way. The plant has a bit of a reprieve, and there are high hopes that the makeover will lead to greater things. But auto production and manufacturing in Ontario are clearly in uncharted territory, with emissions standards, electric and autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence and quickly changing consumer demand now requiring a high degree of flexibility from auto manufacturers. Thats why the governments were so quick, at first, to accept the closure as a fait accompli. Yes, thousands of middle-class workers in Oshawa were to lose their jobs, spinoff industrial activity would dry up, and the lifeblood of Oshawa would be sapped. But the governments were told in no uncertain terms that GMs decision to close Oshawa and a few other plants in the United States was irreversible, part of a market-driven decision that was pushing the auto manufacturer to cut costs quickly, boost profits and make some dramatic moves to reorient production towards rapidly morphing consumer tastes. Oshawas production was not flexible enough to fit the bill. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau each spoke with GM, offered multiple times to help, but were rebuffed. They threw up their hands. Were willing to engage and work with them but theyve been clear about their position, said Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains a day after GM announced the closure. I talked to the president of GM last night. The first thing I said is, What can we do? What do we have to do? Ford said. And he said, The ship has already left the dock. In the United States, President Donald Trump tweeted some threats to withdraw support for electric vehicles unless GM changed its mind. That passivity was a stark contrast to the reaction of both governments a decade ago when, in the throes of the global financial crisis, GM and Chrysler declared bankruptcy. Then, the U.S., Canadian and Ontario governments leapt forward with huge bailout packages. At the time, the auto industry was considered just too big to fail, especially since financial services were already collapsing all around them. Governments in Canada and the United States felt compelled to shore the auto manufacturers up with billions of dollars in government funds. This time, Unifor was essentially isolated, and dug in for the fight of its life. Passivity was not on its agenda. Union president Jerry Dias angrily rallied the workers at GM and across the auto parts sector, vowing to use every weapon in his arsenal. They held meetings with politicians. They held rallies. They staged a performance with Sting. They threatened job action, not just at the Oshawa plant. But what really stung was the embarrassment factor. They ran commercials during the Super Bowl, during Leafs games, during the Golden Globes. They called on Canadians to boycott Mexican vehicles. And there was that tag line referring to the bailout of a decade ago: You may have forgotten our generosity, but well never forget your greed. If you want to sell here, build here. The federal government eventually piled on too, with Bains pointedly reminding GM of that rescue package as well as the many incentives Canada offers automakers to make cars here. Sales suffered, GM compromised, but they didnt take any government up on its offer for help mainly because there are always strings attached, insiders said. A decade after the multi-billion-dollar bailout of the auto sector, flexibility and corporate reputation in this industry are worth more than anything governments can give. Read more about: remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Members of the Partners in Patriotism Fund present Foxboro school administrators and nurses and members of the Boston ECG Project with a check of $5,250 to cover the costs of student ECG screenings at the Ahern Middle School and the high school. From left: Partners in Patriotism Fund Grants Committee member Matt Monahan, Boston ECG Project Charitable Foundation Treasurer Kimberly Carlozzi, Boston ECG Project Clinical Director Cynthia Glennon, school nurse Jen Rosenberg, assistant superintendent Alison Mello, grants committee members Jane Atwell and Mike Kominsky Jr., superintendent Amy Berdos, school nurse Linda Marley and grants committee member Mark Powers. Occidental Petroleum Corp. Chief Executive Officer Vicki Hollub is on the cusp of winning a David versus Goliath bidding war that has captivated the oil industry. After making a series of approaches to rival Anadarko Petroleum Corp. about a merger over almost two years, Hollub was outflanked last month when the company embraced a takeover offer from Chevron Corp., despite it being considerably lower than her $38 billion bid. The University of Alabama-trained engineer didn't back down. In a series of bold and creative moves that included securing a $10 billion investment from Warren Buffett, Hollub, 59, is back in pole position in the battle for Anadarko. In gaining the stamp of approval from Anadarko's board on Monday, she has boxed Mike Wirth, her counterpart at Chevron, into a corner with the uncomfortable choice of tarnishing his reputation for financial conservatism or conceding defeat. "Hollub is ripping up the playbook and running an all-out offense on the Anadarko board to favor her bid," Mizuho Securities analyst Paul Sankey said. Three moves have been key to Hollub's ascendancy in the biggest oil-industry bidding war in years. First, she flew to Omaha to explain the deal's benefits to Buffett and returned with a huge investment. Second, she hammered out a sale of Anadarko's African assets to France-based Total for $8.8 billion, locking down a tranche of cash to help pay down debt. A third obstacle was that Anadarko was concerned Occidental needed a shareholder vote while Chevron didn't. "We weren't playing on a level playing field," Hollub said during a conference call with analysts on Monday. To change that, she upped the cash portion of her offer to eliminate the need for a vote, a measure she said provided "clarity" about how the deal would be completed. Chevron has yet to make a counterbid, despite Anadarko's shares now trading close to Hollub's latest offer, suggesting she's the likely victor. Chevron declined to comment. Anadarko was little changed at $75.41 at 7 a.m. in pre-market trading in New York, less than $1 below the value of Occidental's offer. Occidental was also little-changed at $58.75. Still, Hollub's pursuit of Anadarko has taken its toll on Occidental's stock price, which is down more than 10 percent since her interest was first made public and attracted some investor criticism for the deal's cost and leverage. But her desire to take over Anadarko is underpinned by deep expertise in the Permian Basin, the world's biggest oil field and the heart of the U.S. shale boom. The Permian has been central to Hollub's 35-year career at Occidental. She was general manager of the company's operations in the region before the shale revolution and has also held several technical roles in Russia, Venezuela and Ecuador. She took charge of Occidental's shale growth when she became chief operating officer in 2015 before rising to the top job a year later. At Occidental "it didn't matter who you were, what you looked like, where you were from, gender or anything," Hollub said in an interview last year. She characterized Occidental as unique in the male-dominated oil industry -- a place where women were granted the flexibility to both raise a family and move up the corporate ladder, where hard work was rewarded regardless of gender. "I felt like if I stepped up and did as much as I could do, I wasn't going to be denied any kind of chances to do more," she said. Hollub's operational expertise may be behind her pledge to save twice as much money than Chevron can from folding Anadarko into Occidental despite, on paper at least, the target's Permian acreage lining up better with the California-based supermajor. Victory would make Occidental far and away the Permian's largest crude producer. "It's very rare, in fact generational, when you see an opportunity like this come along where you can check every box you want to check from a value standpoint," Hollub said on Monday. "It's got things I believe that haven't even been evaluated yet." If Occidental wins Anadarko it may have a cultural challenge on its hands. Hollub's experience of being treated equally with male colleagues in her career differs dramatically from the career paths described by former employees of Anadarko. Women in the company's Denver office, where 550 of the company's 4,700 workers are based, complained of stunted careers, loutish behavior and sexual relationships between male executives and their female subordinates. Anadarko has said that it's been responsive to complaints about gender inequality, and has recently rolled out programs focused on sexual harassment and discrimination. It's also strengthened its policies on retaliation, and appointed more women to leadership positions. For Hollub, this doesn't appear to be a concern just yet. "Anadarko has incredible people too," she said during the call. "We believe the combination of their employees continuing to have the opportunity to work these assets with the culture they have blending into our culture which we think is going to be a fairly easy transition." Once More We Were Stars: A Memoir By Jayson Greene Knopf. 243 pp. $25 --- Four years ago, a horrible accident shook my Upper West Side Manhattan neighborhood: A toddler sitting with her grandmother on a sidewalk bench was hit on the head by masonry that fell from an eighth-floor windowsill. The injury was fatal. After a city investigation uncovered falsified inspection reports, the building was sold and extensively renovated and rebranded. The Department of Buildings also made changes to its procedures for facade maintenance enforcement. But few locals can forget what happened there. Anna Quindlen writes in "Nanaville" that she still gives the building wide berth when she's pushing her grandson in his stroller. Now the little girl's father, Jayson Greene, has published a beautiful memoir, "Once More We Saw Stars," about coping with the loss of his 2-year-old daughter, Greta. Needless to say, it's heartbreaking. I read much of it through a blur of tears. But Greene's book is also heartwarming, a valuable addition to the literature of grief and an answer to the question: How does one survive such a devastating tragedy? The book's title, from Dante's "Inferno," tips us off that Greta's bereft parents will, in the poet's words, "get back up to the shining world." But "Once More We Saw Stars," an outgrowth of a journal Greene began shortly after the accident, is a chronological account, which means there's unthinkable pain before the arduous "path toward healing." Like Virgil, Greene makes for a good guide on this journey to hell and back. He's a Brooklyn-based journalist and editor who met his wife, Stacy, a cellist by training, at the classical-music nonprofit where they both worked. After Greta's birth, Stacy switched tracks to become a lactation consultant and nutritionist. Their story is not just of loss, but of their remarkable love, which helps them through this tragedy. The first section painfully reconstructs the immediate aftermath of the accident, including excruciating hours at their daughter's hospital bedside, surrounded by friends and family, after Greta was declared clinically dead. Greta had to be kept on a ventilator until recipients for her organs, which her parents agreed to donate, could be located. Greene writes movingly of his traumatized mother-in-law, who suffered leg injuries from the falling bricks: "her heartbreak is so acute it is like the sun - I can't look at it." Aware that his story will reliably elicit shock and tears, Greene at one point bitterly calls himself "a rock star of grief." But he also writes gorgeously of grief - from its initial "blaze" and ensuing "drudgery" to moments of transcendence. During a run in the park he had frequented with Greta, Greene writes about sensing her - and her loss: "Grief at its peak has a terrible beauty to it, a blinding fission of every emotion. The world is charged with significance, with meaning, and the world around you, normally so solid and implacable, suddenly looks thin, translucent. At the park, he also begins to sense an "opening" that will somehow reconnect him with Greta. He and Stacy are forever on the hunt for such openings - partings in "the curtain separating us from her spirit." In the absence of ties to any formal religion, they practice yoga religiously, the couple head to the Kripalu Institute in Stockbridge, Mass., for a workshop called "From Grieving to Believing," and attend a local grief group. At Kripalu, writer and grief expert David Kessler instructs that "a broken heart is an open heart." Accordingly, Jayson and Stacy open themselves up to sessions with a medium - though Greene admits to skepticism: "What had our grief made us? Had we joined ranks with the suckers, the wide-eyed, the willfully deluded?" We're wondering the same when their quest for a spiritual connection with Greta takes them to a sanctuary in Taos, N.M., for people suffering deep grief. The couple spend what would have been their daughter's third birthday participating in a tobacco prayer-tying ritual and a drumbeating ceremony meant to awaken visions. However strange, their spirit journey proves helpful. Greene's writerly skills are in evidence throughout this book. He opens with a lovely memory of the only time his daughter dipped her feet in ocean water, shortly before her death. Just as deliberately, he holds off for 200 pages before detailing their last day together, when he and Stacy, at their wit's end with fatigue and desperate for a break, dropped off Greta with her grandmother. This explains his guilty, posthumous apologies: "I'm so sorry, baby girl ... Your mommy and daddy just needed a weekend. If we hadn't gotten overwhelmed you'd still be here.You have no idea how exhausted I would agree to be to keep you here. " Greene's updates on Greta's organ donations are disheartening, because the ones he mentions all failed. His report about the city's findings regarding the building inspector's negligence is similarly terse. (Did he and his wife sue for damages? He doesn't say.) His aim is clearly to focus on the positive. A self-described optimist, he is wired for love and joy, and dismayed by the anger that still overcomes him at times. He is also wired for fatherhood. Just months after Greta's death, while playing with a friend's kid, he writes, "I could feel my love for Greta seeking a transference point. I needed to care for and love a little person." He and Stacy decide to have another child. Determined not to raise him in the shadow of grief or fear, their son Harrison's due date gives them a deadline to pull themselves together. It's a life-affirming response to tragedy, as is their love - and this luminous book. --- McAlpin reviews books regularly for NPR, The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post. EDWARDSVILLE Curtains Up Theater Company invites audiences to celebrate Mothers Day weekend with Freaky Friday, a new musical about a mother and daughter who switch places for a day. The show will be performed at SIUEs Dunham Hall on Friday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 11 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, May 12 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for children. They can be purchased from the Curtains Up website. Scott Tripp is the director and Aaron Williams in the co-director of the musical. Joel Hackbarth is the musical director. The show is based on a book from the 70s, Tripp said. There were also two non-musical movies based on the book. The musical is more closely based on the book, Tripp said. Disney just released a musical version on the Disney Channel, Tripp said. Its the same as this show. They may have cut a few songs. Curtains Up is the first group in the St. Louis area to perform the musical, Tripp said. We submitted our request at midnight the day they released it. The show has a positive message, Tripp said. It talks about having a positive body image and about bullying, he said. The musical has about 35 cast members. Six are adults. The main characters are the mother and daughter who switch places. The daughter is a teenager and in high school. Tripp and Williams said they had a lot of teens audition. It has a pop score, and a lot of them have seen a movie version of it, Williams said. The music is by the composer of If/Then and Next to Normal Tripp said. The harmonies are really tough and some of the songs are very long, Tripp said. But our cast has done really well. Both directors thought the show would be appropriate for ages from about eight and up. Theres nothing you couldnt say on daytime TV, Williams said. And her little brother in the show is that age. At the beginning of the musical, Tripp said, the mother and daughter feel very disconnected. Each is dealing with her own problems. The mother, a widow, is engaged to remarry, and on the eve of the wedding, the mother and daughter get into an argument and somehow switch bodies. Its very challenging for the leads, he said. Theyre only themselves for about an eighth of the show. The message of the show is great for Mothers Day, Tripp said. Its about finding their connection again, he said. Students in Kayse Fernandes's fourth-grade class used to ignore the railroad tracks that run next to the freeway and along the outskirts of their city. If they did think about them, they figured they were just an old-fashioned way to get from one place to another. But after researching, writing and illustrating a graphic novel about the colossal effort it took to build the nation's first railroad to link the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, these kids at Horace Mann Elementary in Utah are bursting with information and awe. They can tell you who paid for the railroads and how laborers used gunpowder to blast through mountains inch by inch, losing body parts and lives in the process. "It inspired me to support and protect the railroad," said Keegan Barney, who is 10. "This railroad took six years to build. Men worked hard. They died for it. And some people are going to go spray-painting this (railroad), doing graffiti on this? ... I mean seriously." Eight fourth-grade classes were chosen to make graphic novels as part of a major celebration in Utah to mark the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. The state happened to be where Central Pacific and Union Pacific crews joined their separate rail lines on May 10, 1869. And Utah is hosting something like a birthday party, with festivals, re-enactments and train demonstrations, at Golden Spike National Historical Park. Students at Horace Mann spent weeks researching how the railroad companies raced each other to the finish line, deciding what story to tell, drawing panels and writing the words. "It gives you confidence to draw and write your own things," said Scarlett Smith, 9. The students said they had fun - and learned more - by creating a graphic novel instead of writing a report on their own. "You had to have your own thoughts of how to do the certain pages," said Marley Pitcher, 9. "You can be more creative with all of your thinking." She and the others liked how they were in charge of what to write and draw. "You feel like what it was like back then, what they used and how dangerous it actually was," said Micah Yancay, 10. "They would basically work you to death because you're basically working nonstop." Just as the railroad companies competed, the class split in half while working on the book, with each side representing one of the companies. A line taped in the middle of the classroom divided the groups, and students needed tickets to cross to the other side. Art teacher Brent Rhodes worked with them on how to draw facial expressions, action and emotion in pencil, marker and ink. "You could feel the joy in the classroom," said Jake Wilson, 10. "Everyone was excited. It would be math time, and we'd all be waiting to learn about the Transcontinental Railroad." Besides learning facts and figures, the students say they figured out how they can create something amazing by helping one another. "It is so awesome that everyone in our class can work together and make the book really come to life," said Audrina Anderson, 9. --- IF YOU GO: What: Golden Spike National Historical Park. Where: 6200 North 22300 West, Promontory Summit, Utah. When: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. How much: $10 per vehicle. How old: All ages. Don't miss: On most days during the summer, you can watch the arrival of the locomotives Jupiter and Number 119, reproductions of the originals that met at Promontory Summit on May 10, 1869. On Saturdays and holidays during the summer, volunteers reenact the ceremony when the last spike was driven into the completed railroad. For more information: A parent can call 435-471-2209, Extension 29, or visit nps.gov/gosp. Sometimes you look around your apartment and groan. Most people don't have the luxury of making over a space all at once, much less hiring an interior designer to do so. When money is tight, you might have to upgrade your place bit by bit. Luckily, slowly adding pieces helps to create a collected, personalized look. We asked several designers what single item they would add to a living room or bedroom to create the most impact on a tight budget. $100 and under You can do more with $20 than you think. For a bedroom upgrade, Meghan Hackett Cassidy and Erin Hackett of Hackett Interiors, a sister design duo based in Bronxville, New York, suggest buying small decorative items such as picture frames, boxes or dishes to spruce up bare dressers or bedside tables. These items add personality to a space for marginal cost and help tame all the odds and ends that might normally clutter surfaces. Hackett Cassidy finds decorative inlay boxes at West Elm (she says they're often on sale) and picture frames from Target. "They have really simple frames and some that are a little bit more ornate, really depending on what it is you're looking for," Hackett Cassidy says. "They have a lot of variety at a great price point." World Market and Anthropologie also carry numerous options and styles. Switching out boring or oldhardware on dressers, nightstands and cabinets is another low-cost way to make used or inexpensive pieces look more high-end. This easy DIY project involves unscrewing the old knobs and securing the new hardware with nuts, bolts and washers. Head to Home Depot or Etsy for simple drawer pulls and handles, which you can find for as little as $5 or $10 each. Hackett also likes Anthropologie for statement hardware. You can find textiles such as soft throws to add comfort and texture to a space at almost any price point. "Cotton and chenille are soft and are good for every season," Hackett Cassidy says. This is also a chance to play with textures, colors and patterns and an easy way to switch up the color scheme of a room seasonally. She points budget-conscious buyers to Pottery Barn Kids or PBteen for soft blankets that wash and wear well (and don't necessarily look juvenile). Many people think a single source of light is enough in a room, but often one lamp isn't sufficient. Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the tone of a room, and using multiple lights with varying levels of brightness creates dimension and flexibility for activities such as reading, cleaning or entertaining. Hackett Cassidy suggests spending $100 on a pair of lamps to create soft, low light in a room. She favors symmetry in her work and likes to station pairs of lamps on bedside tables or dressers to add polish and create a feeling of cohesiveness. At $50 per lamp, she says it's possible to find well-made pieces that are both appealing and functional. "The shade is half the battle because oftentimes you buy a really inexpensive lamp that comes with a shade you end up needing to replace," she says. "No matter what the environment is, lighting can totally transform a space," says Mel Bean, founder and chief executive of Tulsa-based design firm Mel Bean Interiors. Even if new lighting isn't an option, a simple and affordable upgrade - a dimmer switch - can make your existing lighting scheme more versatile. Plug-in dimmers, which are usually controlled with a sliding button, can be easily added to table and floor lamps by plugging the lamp into the device (between $5 and $50 at Home Depot). For a little more money, you can rewire wall switches to have dimming capabilities. From an aesthetic standpoint, curtains and shades add warmth and softness, and they help with privacy and light control. "A window treatment can be one of the basic things you do that makes a space feel finished, even if it's far from it," Bean says. Custom panels can cost thousands of dollars, but Bean's team has a hack: Buy basic curtains from Ikea (they come lined) and take them to a local seamstress to be pleated. "You likely can't even buy fabric for that cheap," she says. "Take it as high as you can to accentuate the height of the ceiling and hang the rod wide so the drapes stack beside the window," she says. If you have a sewing machine, you could even add trim or embellishments. Try the Ikea Ritva curtains ($39.99 for one pair), a DIY favorite that comes with an iron-on hemming strip; similar styles at Pottery Barn run from about $130 to $329. Bean suggests looking for rods and rings at Target, Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn. She likes the softness of drapes in living rooms but says Roman shades also provide a similar function, usually at a lower price. In some spaces, such as kids' rooms or windows over the sink, it makes more sense to avoid the extra yardage of billowing material. $500 and under Because we spend so much time in our beds, a new set of high-quality bedding - bedsheets, a duvet cover or quilt, and shams - can have a huge impact. "It freshens up the room," Hackett Cassidy says. She usually starts with white bedding and looks for comforters and duvet covers with colorful accents or fun details to create visual interest. "Figure out which pieces you want to start from, then base the other colors and textures off the rest of the room," Hackett Cassidy says. Hackett loves the cotton sheets from Pottery Barn and says that depending on the size of the bed, you can find similar items at Pottery Barn Kids and PBteen at a lower price (both stores carry full-size bedding). "Bed Bath & Beyond has very basic items for someone on a budget who wants that luxurious bed with a coverlet, duvet and shams," Hackett Cassidy says. "That's somewhere we would suggest shopping to achieve that overall look without blowing the budget." For more of a splurge, Hackett Cassidy suggests turning to Serena & Lily for high-quality, stylish comforters and duvets. Bean loves the texture and quality of West Elm's organic cotton sheet sets ($79-$119, plus $29 for two pillowcases)."I think they feel really nice and soft and they wash well and wear well. I've bought quite a few of their organic sheets for my own home over the years," she says. She also likes picking up good-quality, low-cost bedding at Target. Your basic box spring or metal bed frame has major potential for an upgrade, Hackett Cassidy says: A headboard ties a room together. Choose a bright color, a rich fabric or an ornate pattern to create a focal point for the room, or stick with the same color scheme to anchor the other furnishings. Upholstered and tufted headboards are in style and can provide a little extra cushion for people who like to sit up and read in bed. "Headboards add dimension to the room and are practical and comfy," Hackett Cassidy says. BELLEVILLE A Bank of Belleville employee who went through an unexpected health crisis is using her experience to help others. Jennifer Gross, a loan assistant at the bank, contracted a chronic form of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (gwee-YAIN bah-RAY) known as Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy that left her paralyzed from right below her eyes down to her feet. Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a rare disorder that causes a persons immune system to damage that persons nerve cells, causing muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis. GBS is rare and is typically caused by an infection or occasionally immunizations. I ended up in a hospital bed not being able to move my arms and legs, Gross said. I dont think anyone can imagine what it is like to become totally immobile unless you have actually lived it. Gross spent nearly a year in and out of hospitals recovering from her symptoms. As her time out of work added up, so did her medical bills. Her co-workers wanted to help. All of the employees at Bank of Belleville are very close, said Ron Stephens, president and CEO. We saw what was happening to Jen and we knew we had to do something to lift her spirits. Thats how Jeans for Jen was born. Jeans for Jen started as an employee-run fundraiser at the bank to help Gross cover her medical expenses. Employees were encouraged to make a weekly donation that allowed them to wear jeans to work on Fridays. As time went on and Jen was able to return to the workplace, Jeans for Jen continued, and employees began raising money for a variety of local and national charities. Since starting Jeans for Jen two years ago, employees have raised more than $7,000 to support local nonprofits and other charitable causes. I think giving to others has helped me with my own healing process, Gross said. I still get emotional thinking about everything my co-workers at Bank of Belleville did for me during the most difficult time in my life. Not only did the bank hold my job for me, employees did simple things like decorating my hospital room at Christmas time. Their support made a huge difference, said Gross. If you are interested in making a donation to Jeans for Jen, call (618) 233-6400 to speak with Josh Wohltman or Karin Feldker. Bank of Belleville operates from its headquarters at 215 South Illinois Street in Belleville, Illinois. The bank serves individual and business clients throughout St. Clair County and beyond. As of December 31, 2018, the bank had total assets of $209 million and 38 full and part-time team members. Staff members from U.S. Rep Rodney Davis office will be holding traveling help desks this month to help residents connect with federal agencies, discuss policy issues and to answer questions about legislation. The Traveling Help Desk will be in White Hall May 16 from 9-10:30 a.m. at White Hall City Hall, 116 E. Sherman St. President Donald Trump's legal spokesman Rudy Giuliani is hitting back against the more than 700 former federal prosecutors who say the evidence against Trump is sufficient for criminal charges. Those 700-plus prosecutors include one of Giuliani's former assistants in the Reagan Justice Department, Jeffrey Harris. Harris says the Giuliani he knew would have brought such charges "in a heartbeat." In a text to The Washington Post's Matt Zapotosky, Giuliani expressed exasperation with prosecutors making such calls. "What prosecutors would offer a gratuitous opinion on a case they didn't investigate?" Giuliani asked rhetorically. A prosecutor like Giuliani, it turns out. Giuliani's suggestion that it's out of bounds for former prosecutors to take such stands is completely at odds with his own commentary in recent years. Giuliani, a high-ranking Justice Department prosecutor throughout the 1980s, has called for prosecutions of and/or outright alleged crimes committed by several people, including Hillary Clinton, James Comey and Michael Cohen. Here's a quick rundown of 12 examples: --Clinton: "Let's go, DOJ wake up. where's the indictment. Clinton's not above law." --Hillary Clinton's maid: "Clinton's maid routinely sent classified info from home to Clinton - a crime." --Cohen: "If Cohen is not indicted for multiple perjuries before Congress, DOJ must dismiss the Flynn indictment." --Clinton: " 'Comey' (v) means to interfere illicitly with an election. For example 'The Chicago Democrat machine comied the 1960 election.' This usage derived from Comey's interference in 2016 election by failing to prosecute [Clinton] and then an unprecedented release of incriminating facts." --Cohen: "Well Cohen's perjury about seeking a WH job is proven by his own words. Must be prosecuted?" --Bruce Ohr: "Bruce Ohr worked on Steele dossier while at DOJ. His wife worked for FusionGPS, company peddling lies about President Trump, and was paid by them. A CRIME. 18 USC 208. --Cohen: "Another perjury and more prison." --Clinton: "It was crying out for prosecution. I could have prosecuted that case with my eyes closed." --Clinton: "There is a woman who really obstructed justice." --Comey: "Comey should be prosecuted for leaking confidential FBI information when he leaked his report intended to develop a special prosecutor for the president of the United States." --Clinton: "Either she was the dumbest Secretary of State in American history or a bald-faced liar . . . If it's the latter she should be prosecuted for the same crime as Martha Stewart by making a false statement to the FBI in violation of 18 U.S. Code section 1001." --Clinton: "I know you're very disappointed you didn't win, but you're a criminal." Some of these are more nuanced than others, but many of them are explicit calls for prosecution or accusations of criminal activity . . . made by a former federal prosecutor . . . in cases he didn't personally investigate. One also wonders what Giuliani thinks of Attorney General William Barr making a decision not to accuse Trump of criminal activity - even though Robert Mueller disagreed - in a case he didn't investigate. A Texas state legislator unleashed a vilifying attack on a leading vaccine scientist Tuesday, accusing the doctor of "sorcery." It started with a report published Monday by the Texas Department of State Health Services that noted the state recorded a 14 percent rise in parents opting out of their children's vaccinations. It was a new statistic that alarmed Peter Hotez, professor and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. "We have more than 64,000 kids not getting vaccinated in the state of Texas, and that doesn't account for the over 300,000 home-schooled kids," Hotez said during an interview with The Washington Post. Hotez took his concerns about the report to Twitter. And then he received an unexpected, seething personal attack from the Republican state legislator, Rep. Jonathan Stickland. "You are bought and paid for by the biggest special interest in politics," Stickland wrote. "Do our state a favor and mind your own business. Parental rights mean more to us than your self enriching 'science.' " In a tweeted response, Hotez, a pediatrician and vaccine scientist, noted to Stickland that he does not receive money from the vaccine industry; instead, his work focuses on "neglected disease vaccines for the world's poorest people." Stickland, who told The Washington Post he is "not anti-vaccination," tweeted his response to Hotez. "Make the case for your sorcery to consumers on your own dime," the Republican, who represents an area of suburban Fort Worth, snapped back Tuesday. "Quit using the heavy hand of government to make your business profitable through mandates and immunity." (Hotez is not part of a for-profit business, either as a dean at the Baylor College of Medicine or as an endowed chair at the nonprofit Texas Children's Hospital.) Although Stickland backs "parental rights," he is not discouraging vaccination, he told The Post on Wednesday. In fact, he said, "parents should take that responsibility seriously." "It comes down to whether the government should be mandating what's right for us," Strickland said. "I side with the individual." As The Post previously reported, parents in 17 states can opt out of vaccinating their children for personal or philosophical objections. All states have medical exemption laws, since some people with health issues cannot be vaccinated, and nearly all states grant religious exemptions. The anti-vaccination movement has grown from a fringe group to a dominant force nationwide, launching political action committees in several states, including Texas, lobbying state legislatures to disarm the vaccination infrastructure. From Jan. 1 through April 26, 704 cases of measles were reported, the highest number of cases reported since 1994. Outbreaks in close-knit communities accounted for 88 percent of all cases. Of 44 cases directly imported from other countries, 34 were U.S. residents traveling internationally; most were not vaccinated. Across the United States, more than 760 measles cases have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2019, the highest number of cases since 1994, according to the CDC. Fifteen of those cases came from Texas, Hotez said. Hotez called the fast-spreading disease a "dangerous situation" for "cities like Austin and Plano." "You have schools that are not safe for kids because so many kids are not getting vaccinated," Hotez said. CARBONDALE The First Circuit Juvenile Justice Council, in coordination with The Illinois Association of Juvenile Justice Councils (IAJJC), The Southern Illinois Violence Prevention Project (SIVPP) and the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA), will host its inaugural First Circuit Juvenile Justice Council Symposium on Tuesday, May 14 at Southern Illinois University. Acting Illinois State Police Director and former St. Clair County States Attorney Brendan F. Kelly will be the keynote speaker at the symposium. Brendan has been a leader in efforts to improve the Illinois juvenile justice system for the last decade. We are excited for him to share his experiences and his ideas to build on our progress said Tyler R. Edmonds, First Circuit Juvenile Justice Chair and Union County States Attorney. This one-day symposium will offer information, insight and continuing education credits for individuals involved with education, prevention, intervention, treatment and accountability for children at risk for abuse, neglect or delinquency. The upcoming First Judicial Circuit Juvenile Justice Council Symposium is a watershed moment for juvenile justice in southern Illinois. This symposium brings professionals and practitioners together to partner in a unique learning and sharing experience focused on issues affecting our youths, from trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy to restorative justice as well as many other important issues. Moving forward our approach will surely be better informed and consequently immensely better suited for the youth we serve because of this opportunity, Judge Todd Lambert of Saline County said. Attendees will attend sessions that will focus on evidence-based practices and trauma-informed approaches that can be utilized to help improve public safety and create sustainable change in the lives of at-risk youth. Register online at conferenceservices.siu.edu or by phone at 618-536-7751 SPRINGFIELD A 532-page proposal to legalize adult-use cannabis in Illinois by Jan. 1, 2020 was filed in the state Senate Monday, but the states powerful House speaker said its passage is not guaranteed today. Amendment 1 to Senate Bill 7, carried by Chicago Democratic state Sen. Heather Steans, allows Illinois residents to possess 30 grams of cannabis, five grams of cannabis concentrate and 500 milligrams of THC contained in cannabis-infused products. Visitors from other states could possess half of those amounts. Up to five home-grown plants would also be allowed, provided certain safety conditions are met. Adult-use legalization coupled with criminal justice reforms were campaign promises of Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, whose office said in a press release Saturday that the proposal will be a starting point for debate. But House Speaker Mike Madigan, a Chicago Democrat, told a group of graduate student reporters from the University of Illinois Springfields Public Affairs Reporting program Monday that it could be difficult to get 60 House lawmakers the threshold needed for the bill to pass that chamber to agree on some of the language in the proposal. The bill allows for the expungement of misdemeanor and Class 4 felony marijuana convictions and makes a special designation in the licensing process for social equity applicants, or businesses having a majority of owners or employees from communities that were disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. The bill gives those applicants access to funding from a newly-created $20 million low-interest state loan program, according to Pritzkers release, and allows for reduced licensing fees in certain circumstances. There are some very controversial aspects to the proposal. No. 1 would be the proposal for the expungement of criminal records, Madigan said. The key on that issue is how far do you go in terms of expungement? If were talking about some teenager who was doing drugs and found guilty of possession, thats one thing. If youre talking about people who were actually in the business, dealers, and you want to expunge those records, thats a different case. Convictions for possessing, growing, manufacturing and delivering cannabis were all included as eligible for expungement in a document released by Pritzkers office, which said the expungement provision would only apply to standalone offenses not accompanied with other convictions. Madigan said he wasnt speaking to the bills specific expungement language, but to the idea in general. Im not sure how they treat that in the proposed language, but that will be very important in terms of finding 60 people in the House to vote for the bill, he said. Per the bill, the Illinois State Police would be required to start the expungement process within two years of the effective date of the law by identifying individuals eligible for expungement and notifying prosecutors offices, local law enforcement agencies and the attorney generals office of their cases. Madigan said the decision process for which businesses will receive new licenses would affect the vote as well. Among the minorities in the Legislature, they would argue that there oughta be some leg up for minorities in terms of licenses to cultivate or be a dispenser. Here again, language will be important in terms of finding 60 people to vote for the bill, Madigan said. The General Assembly has just 21 days of legislative debate on the calendar to pass the critical piece of Pritzkers first-term agenda before they adjourn. The governor budgeted for $170 million in new revenues next fiscal year from licensing fees associated with legalization. The first of those fees would come from the states existing 17 cultivation and 55 dispensary facilities. Currently-licensed cultivators would be eligible to purchase a recreational license for $100,000 and up to $500,000 paid to the Cannabis Business Development Fund, which would help fund the low-interest loans and other equity-promoting measures. Retailers, on the other hand, would be allowed to purchase up to two licenses, each costing $30,000, with up to $100,000 paid to the CBD fund for the first license and up to $200,000 for the second. Beginning May 2020, licenses would be granted to 75 new entrants to the retail market. Then, in July 2020, processors, craft growers and transporting businesses would be eligible for 40 newly-created licenses in each respective category. Craft growers and processors would pay $40,000 for their licenses, while new dispensaries would pay $30,000 and transporters would pay $10,000. Any applicant would also be charged a nonrefundable $5,000 application fee. Debate is expected to begin soon in the Senate, which is made up of 40 Democrats and 19 Republicans. The bill will need 30 votes to move to the House for further consideration. Capitol News Illinois Grant Morgan contributed to this story. WASHINGTON - If it felt crowded on the National Mall or other tourist hotspots last year, that's because it was: 21.9 million people from around the country visited the District in 2018 and spent $7.8 billion - both record numbers, the city's official marketing organization said Tuesday. Destination DC, a nonprofit funded by the city's hotel occupancy tax, said the number of domestic visitors was an increase of 1.1 million over 2017. The amount they spent was up 4.3 percent from the previous year, the organization said. The number of international tourists will drive the total number of visitors higher, but those figures won't be available until later this year. Tourism in the District last year resulted in $851 million paid in taxes to the city and helped to support more than 76,000 jobs, according to Destination DC. In a statement, Mayor Muriel Bowser, D, said the growth "reflects the overall strength and success of Washington." "From sporting events to restaurants to music venues and museums, we have more to do and see in our city than ever before," the mayor said. Elliott Ferguson, Destination DC's president, said a number of factors contributed to the hallmark year, including the Capitals winning the Stanley Cup, the unveiling of the Obama portraits at the National Portrait Gallery and the first full year of business at the Wharf in southwest Washington. Despite the record-breaking year, he said there is always room for more. "We absorb it well," Ferguson said. "We're happy with these numbers . . . We clearly can handle additional visitation." The figures put the District of Columbia on track for a record number of visitors last year. It would be the ninth consecutive year for the city to top the previous year's number. The increase comes as other portions of the economy also are on strong footing. The District reached 700,000 residents last year, a number not seen since the 1970s. Though the unemployment rate has ticked up slightly in recent months, it remains below 6 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Anirban Basu, a regional economist with the Maryland-based Sage Policy Group, said the numbers were "sheer good news." "I think it's a great story and that great story can be even greater," Basu said. Terry Clower, director of George Mason University's Center for Regional Analysis, said the number of visitors remained high partly because the U.S. economy remains strong and people have money for vacations. But with a robust technology sector and Amazon coming to Arlington, Virginia, he said hospitality is just one part of the region's economic engine. "There is much to tell about the D.C. economy that isn't either federal government or tourists," he said. It's not yet clear how the nation's longest-ever government shutdown earlier this year - an economic setback for local businesses and government contractors across the country - could affect 2019 numbers. Ferguson said he was skeptical the shutdown, which occurred in winter, would affect overall tourism totals. "There's nothing good about a government shutdown," he said. "The silver lining is that it did not happen this time of year." Matteo Salvini, Italy's most powerful politician, suffered his worst defeat in just under a year in government after his rival and coalition partner convinced the country's prime minister to oust an economic adviser to Salvini. Premier Giuseppe Conte, supported by ministers from the anti-establishment Five Star movement, pushed a decree through the Cabinet to remove Armando Siri amid a corruption probe. Five Star leader Luigi Di Maio and Salvini, who share power as deputy prime ministers, have spent most of their time in office squabbling over everything from taxes to regional autonomy to chemical castration for sex offenders. While Wednesday's decision marks a new low in the fractious relations between Salvini's League party and Five Star, the "day of reckoning" that Italian media had speculated about now looks likely to be postponed until after European Parliament elections in late May. The yield differential between Italian and German 10-year bonds is widening again after the latest round of tensions between the League and Five Star. The spread was at about 268 basis points, up 3 points, at 3:40 p.m. in Rome. The decision to remove Siri marks a break with the politics of the past, Di Maio said during a news conference after the cabinet meeting. "Politics needs to act before the law does," the Five Star leader said, to remove any questions of corruption. Five Star has long campaigned for cleaner government. Still, Di Maio reiterated that the government will serve its full term and said he backs a League proposal for a so-called flat tax. The Five Star leader also said he's ready to discuss Italy breaching European Union rules on a 3% budget deficit-GDP limit, echoing remarks by Salvini on Tuesday that unsettled markets. While Salvini and Di Maio are accustomed to locking horns, the League leader's relations with Conte may now also be compromised, with some party officials saying they no longer trust the premier to act as a neutral mediator between the two sides. The League opposed revoking Siri's mandate, but has "taken note of" the prime minister's decision, a party official said. There should not be an automatic assumption of guilt just because a probe is opened, the official said. Siri has denied any wrongdoing. Salvini told reporters after the cabinet meeting with the prime minister that he and the League have no lessons to learn on political morality. "Our candidates are unblemished," he said. Though Conte is not a member of either of the ruling parties, Five Star named him on a list of possible ministers before the 2018 national elections. Any action by the prime minister favoring Five Star was always likely to provoke the rightist League. Wednesday's Cabinet clash comes in the wake of a warning from the Brussels-based European Commission, which said Italy's fiscal situation will worsen this year and next because a pickup in the economy won't be strong enough to stop its debt and deficit rising. Salvini and Conte both issued blunt responses, with Five Star charging that the EU is out to get the populist government. The Cabinet decree calling for Siri's removal next goes to President Sergio Mattarella for formal approval. Bernie Sanders recently defended late-term abortions because they are rare. The unspoken implication is that aiming at the death of an innocent, unimaginably vulnerable human life is acceptable if it doesnt happen very often. He further argued that the choice to kill a prenatal child to end a pregnancy should be left up to the woman, free from government interferences. Oddly, like his counterparts on the left, Sanders has a libertarian position on abortion. According to the pro-choice Guttmacher Institute, about 1.3% of abortions take place after 20 weeks which means that at least 11,427 prenatal children who were 5 months old or older were killed in 2017. Some states, including New York and California, do not report their abortions, so their numbers are actually significantly higher, considering that those two states have the highest numbers of abortion in the nation. The death penalty is much rarer than late-term abortion. According to the Death Penalty Information Center, 25 death-row inmates were executed in 2018. Sanders opposes the death penalty because too many innocent people have been executed. He said that in a world of so much violence and killing, the government should not be part of the process though he has called for the federal government to ban the death penalty. By Bernie Sanders standard, the number of people killed by gun violence is also rare. According to the FBI, 11,004 people died by gun violence in 2016. One would be hard-pressed to find anyone to say that, because gun violence is rare, it should be legally permissible. In his campaign announcement speech, Sanders argued passionately for ending the epidemic of gun violence in this country, suggesting ways the government can step in to help decrease violence in our society. But roughly the same number of human beings are killed via late-term abortion as die by gun violence. Some argue that late-term abortions are done only when either the mother or the child has a severe medical issue. But as research done by Secular Pro-Life has shown, this is not the case. The most common reasons for late-term abortion are women not realizing they are pregnant, not having the money for an abortion earlier in the pregnancy, and having difficulty making a decision in the first few months. For the overwhelming majority of Americans, allowing a baby to be killed by late-term abortion is unthinkable. Recent Gallup polls indicate that 72% of Americans oppose abortion in the second trimester and 87% oppose abortion in the third trimester. Recent efforts to remove reasonable regulation and limits at these stages will not attract new voters. In fact, it may cause people to look for alternatives. Hillary Clinton ignored pro-life voters in 2016 and made a strategic error when she also embraced broadly legal late-term abortion. Many pro-life Democrats and independent voters, who were not very excited about the Democratic nominee in the first place, simply did not vote in 2016. She lost states that she should have won such as Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania in which the public has a complex view on abortion. As this familiar script plays out again, Democrats are providing Republicans with plenty of ammunition to target them as an extreme abortion-rights party. When Virginia and New Mexico attempted to follow New Yorks permissive abortion law, public opinion shifted 17 points from pro-choice to pro-life. Democrats are also taking a stand against providing health care for babies who survive abortion. Again, the attack ads really write themselves, particularly against a party that wants health care for all. America has a rich tradition of expanding human rights for all of its people. Protecting these tiny people in the womb is, in fact, the most significant human-rights issue of our time. Pro-life voters, particularly Democrats and independents in New Hampshire, need to start asking more questions of the Democratic candidates and challenge them for more consistency on ending violence in our society. Allowing the violence of abortion to continue because it is rare is not an answer. It is an excuse to allow that violence to continue against human beings deemed unworthy or unwanted. Kate Day is executive director of Democrats for Life America. She wrote this for InsideSources.com. Job Title: Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist Organization: Chemonics International Inc. Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda About US: Chemonics International is a private international development company that works for bilateral and multilateral donors and the private sector to manage projects in developing countries. About USAID Project: Chemonics International is implementing the USAID Domestic Revenue Mobilization for Development (DRM4D) activity in Uganda. This five-year project will help Uganda strengthen the tax culture, increase voluntary compliance, and sustainably increase domestic revenue mobilization, thereby creating the fiscal space for public spending and investments in service delivery in priority sectors such as health, education, and agriculture. This activity will work with Government of Uganda institutions to conduct policy analysis, evaluation and communicate the impact of tax reforms, and formulate sound tax and non-tax revenue policies. It will advance the efforts of key government agencies to operationalize these policies to efficiently, effectively and transparently collect tax and non-tax revenue. DRM4D will also build private sector and civil society capacity to contribute to an informed dialogue on taxation. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Develop and implement monitoring, evaluation and reporting systems performance and produce timely, accurate, and complete reporting Determine indicators, baseline data, targets, and a plan to evaluateperformance and produce timely, accurate, and complete reporting improve activity performance and to communicate the value and progress of the activity to stakeholders Ensure the M&E system is used as an adaptive management tool toimprove activity performance and to communicate the value and progress ofthe activity to stakeholders Qualifications, Skills and Experience: evaluation (M&E) Specialist job must hold a graduate degree in economics, statistics, M&E, or relevant field The ideal candidate for the USAID DRM4D Project Monitoring andevaluation (M&E) Specialist job must hold a graduate degree ineconomics, statistics, M&E, or relevant field assurance, analysis of reporting, and best practices in data dissemination and data usage Five years of experience working in M&E, including data qualityassurance, analysis of reporting, and best practices in data disseminationand data usage Strong capability to carry out economic and statistical analysis qualitative evaluation methodologies Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of quantitative andqualitative evaluation methodologies understand formats including visualizations Demonstrated ability to portray complex data sets in easy tounderstand formats including visualizations Monitoring and Evaluation Plans Experience designing, implementing, and managing project PerformanceMonitoring and Evaluation Plans identifying lessons learned to serve as a feedback tool to incorporate in activity implementation Experience working with teams to collect and analyze information,identifying lessons learned to serve as a feedback tool to incorporate inactivity implementation Demonstrated leadership, versatility, and integrity How to Apply: All candidates should upload an electronic version of your CV, cover letter, and contact information at the link below Click Here For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline MARGARET WEEDEN, Chariho, Girls Track, Senior; Weeden won two events for the Chargers in the first meet of the season. Weeden was first in the high jump (5-0) and the long jump 15-1. ANNE DRAGO, Stonington, Girls Basketball, Senior; Drago scored 39 points in three games as Stonington started the season 1-2. Drago had 16 in a loss to Fitch, 12 in a win against Griswold and 11 in a defeat to Ledyard. SYDNEY HAIK, Westerly, Girls Basketball, Sophomore; Haik scored 14 points as the Bulldogs opened the season with a victory over Cumberland. Haik had three 3-pointers, five assists and five steals. ZANE BREWER, Wheeler, Boys Basketball, Freshman; Brewer scored 21 points and grabbed eight rebounds in the Lions season-opening win over Grasso Tech. Brewer followed that with 18 points and five rebounds in a loss to Hale-Ray. Vote View Results The revolutionary move to start enrolling millions of workers automatically into a pension seven years ago was long overdue. Indeed, since the launch of the 'auto-enrolment' scheme in 2012, more than ten million people now pay into a workplace pension. Over the years, the minimum amount you must pay in has crept up. As of last month workers must pay in at least 5 per cent of their salary, topped up by a further 3 per cent from their employer (although you can opt out of the scheme). Auto enrolment: Since the launch of the scheme in 2012, more than ten million people now pay into a workplace pension But now, as we reveal today, experts warn that this still isn't enough. They say the mandated minimums are a brilliant start but are insufficient for a comfortable retirement. Yet for those of us whose purses are pinched by mortgages, household bills, student loan debt and life's other unexpected expenses, the idea that we should be saving even more is simply unrealistic. I do understand how hard it can be to prioritise your pension when you are decades from giving up work. No one is going to forgo holidays for 30 years so they can ramp up their monthly contributions. But if you get a pay rise at some point, you may find you can more easily afford to give your pension a bump without hitting your take-home pay after all, you are less likely to miss what you never had. Similarly, if you come into some cash or receive an inheritance, consider putting some of it into a pension. Never forget the undisputed advantages of tax relief. Where else can you save 40 and get back 50 the equivalent of 25 per cent interest (or more if you're a higher earner)? The key is to think of auto-enrolment pension saving as the foundation of your retirement planning and save extra whenever you get the opportunity. Every little will help in the long run, so don't be discouraged. Loyalty rip-off May means one thing in my financial calendar it's time to renew my breakdown cover. A reminder letter promptly arrived last month to say that the cost of covering my little blue Ford Fiesta would be rising by more than a fifth (!) from 80.64 to 103.04 a year. A quick two-minute check on Green Flag's website showed that a new customer buying exactly the same policy online would pay just 78.40. I jumped on the phone, ready to go to war... only for the woman on the line to agree immediately to match the cheaper price. Two minutes and 44 seconds that's all it took. A pleasing record for the Bischoff v Insurer scorecard but also so disappointing. The so-called loyalty rip-off is currently being investigated by the Financial Conduct Authority. I had hoped insurers would move to clean up their act before the regulator forced them to, but it's clear some firms are intent on cashing in while they can. Not so smart Finally, a question about smart meters from Money Mail reader Albert Hickson, who asks: 'How on earth can a smart meter save anyone any money? Boiling a pint of water, running a dishwasher cycle, watching the television or listening to the radio all cost the same with or without a smart meter. I don't need a smart meter to tell me I've left a light on.' He adds: 'I saw in one smart meter advertisement that Great British Bake Off chef Ian Cumming has discovered that an oven uses a lot of energy and is looking for alternative ways of cooking. 'Good luck with that, Ian! A microwave may cook a jacket potato in four minutes, but it's not the same as an oven-baked potato. Also, you can cook several items in an oven at the same time.' I'd be interested to hear from anyone who thinks their smart meter has saved them money. Or perhaps you think your new gadget has actually pushed up your bills? Write to me at v.bischoff@dailymail.co.uk or Money Mail, Northcliffe House, 2 Derry Street, London, W8 5TT. Passengers who missed their outbound flight could be stranded at the airport on their return home due to a tiny clause buried in many airline terms and conditions. The little-known 'no-show' rule means your return ticket can be void and sold on without warning if you do not board your outbound flight. So, by getting stuck in traffic and missing your original flight out, or by changing your travel plans for the first leg of your outward journey so you only need to use the return ticket, could cause you to unwittingly lose the whole booking. Fare penalty: Jay Stepien (pictured with wife Carol) only found out about BA's policy when he arrived at Warsaw Airport and was forced to pay for an expensive last-minute ticket Consumer campaigners have called on airlines to at least warn travellers their return ticket could be cancelled. Just last year, the Spanish Supreme Court forced Iberia airlines to abandon its no-show policy, as 'the clause was deemed to contravene the good faith requirement'. Money Mail has contacted more than a dozen major airlines and found that many still employ the no-show cancellation policy. British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Flybe, Emirates, Singapore Airlines and American Airlines will all cancel your ticket home if you fail to turn up to your outbound first flight. Meanwhile, Dutch airline KLM and Air France will impose fines of up to 2,568 on customers who miss any flights which are part of their booking. Thomas Cook and Guernsey airline Aurigny previously employed a no-show cancellation policy, but axed it after consumer magazine Which? raised the issue last year. Tips to save your trip Call the airline as soon as you miss your outbound flight and stress you do not want further tickets to be cancelled. Also, send an email so you have proof. Check booking T&Cs as you may be able to make changes at no extra cost. The airline may require you to justify your reason for missing a flight, so keep any documents and paperwork as evidence. If you are unable to prevent further bookings being cancelled, check your travel insurance policy to see if you are covered. Some airlines use the clause to stop 'tariff abuse', when passengers buy return tickets as they are cheaper than a single flight. Others say if they axed the policy it would be more difficult to predict how many customers would turn up to the flight, leading to overbooking. Jay Stepien, 58, only found out about BA's policy when he arrived at Warsaw Airport in Poland for his flight home and was forced to pay for an expensive last-minute ticket. Jay, who works in engineering, had booked BA return flights for himself and his wife, Carol, 64, so they could attend his daughter's wedding. The couple, who live in Brighton, paid 515.60 for the tickets, flying out from Heathrow on August 30. But a week before they were due to fly, Jay's 85-year-old mother, who lives in Poland, broke her wrist. Jay bought a single ticket with Wizz Air, so he could be with her, and then travelled to Warsaw to meet Carol and attend the family wedding. But when Jay tried to check-in online for their flight home, there was no trace of his booking. At the airport, they were told it had been cancelled and the flight was fully booked. Fortunately, Jay managed to book a ticket with Polish airline LOT that day, but the fare set him back around 750. Rory Boland, travel expert at consumer group Which?, says: 'It's simply not acceptable for an airline to cancel a passenger's return flight without a refund because they've missed the first leg of their journey. 'Airlines should start treating passengers fairly by scrapping no-show clauses immediately, as these rip-off terms could be breaking consumer law.' Consumer campaigners have called on airlines to at least warn travellers their return ticket could be cancelled Travel expert Frank Brehany says: 'It's perfectly possible for passengers who miss a flight to be sent a text informing them that further bookings have been cancelled,' he says. It is understood the industry watchdog, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), does not have any regulation relating to no-shows and flight cancellations. When family law barrister James Dove missed his flight to Spain, and Iberia cancelled his return booking, he took the airline to court and won. The 35-year-old had booked 300 return flights from London to Madrid for a wedding in June 2016, but he missed check-in by a few minutes when he was kept late in court. He duly bought a one-way ticket to Spain on another airline carrier. Aware that many airlines cancel a passenger's entire itinerary if they fail to check in on time for the first flight, James, who lives in London, called Iberia from Gatwick Airport to discuss whether he could have his return ticket kept open. But he was told it had been cancelled, and the only way he could ensure a seat on the flight he had booked home was to make another return booking. But, determined to recoup his fare, James took Iberia to the small claims court in 2017, representing himself at the hearing. He used the Consumer Rights Act 2015, a European Directive, to argue that the airline was wrong to keep the money he had paid for his return fare. The deputy district judge ruled in his favour, and Iberia was asked to pay him 178.53 the cost of the Madrid to London flight along with court costs and loss of earnings. Iberia wouldn't comment on Mr Dove's case, but says return flights are not currently cancelled if a passenger doesn't show for their first leg. Emirates and Flybe say they will protect return flights if passengers contact them after missing a flight. As will BA, 'if a customer has a genuine reason'. Virgin says it will honour return journeys for reasons beyond a passenger's control, if they contact them, and Singapore Airlines says it will try and rebook passengers on the next available flights if they do the same. American Airlines says non-refundable ticket holders who contact them to say they've missed a flight would still need to pay a change fee. Air France and KLM say customers will still be charged a fee, even if they call up, in line with their conditions. f.parker@dailymail.co.uk One of the biggest shareholders in Provident Financial has spoken out against a hostile takeover of the doorstep lender. In a boost for the Provvy's efforts to fend off unwanted interest from rival Non-Standard Finance (NSF), fund manager Schroders said it does not support the proposed deal. Schroders, which is the third-biggest investor in the Provvy with a 14.6 per cent stake, said the takeover could leave the firm at the mercy of a crackdown by regulators. NSF is run by the Provvy's former boss John van Kuffeler, who claims that he has the expertise to boost the company's profits The warning is a bruising setback for NSF, which had been seeking the support of investors holding at least 90 per cent of the Provvy's stock. It means NSF will now have to accept a lower threshold of support if it is to get the bid through. In a letter to the Provvy's chairman Patrick Snowball, Schroders said: 'Schroders does not believe that NSF's offer is in the best interest of Provident shareholders. 'Provident has faced a number of issues in recent years, but the first-quarter trading statement shows that it is on track with its recovery. 'In our view, NSF's bid risks destabilising this recovery, and brings additional regulatory risks and uncertainty.' The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) might block the deal, amid fears it would concentrate too much power in the hands of one business, Schroders said. However, shareholders are being asked to approve the plans before the CMA has made a decision. If the regulator then decides that the tie-up cannot go ahead, it will have to be unpicked at huge expense. Schroders said: 'By issuing a deadline for acceptances that falls before the outcome of the CMA investigation is known, NSF forces shareholders to underwrite any costs of redress blindly. It also risks creating a crisis of governance if the CMA investigation takes time to conclude.' NSF is run by the Provvy's former boss John van Kuffeler, who claims that he has the expertise to boost the company's profits. However, there are concerns van Kuffeler might try to squeeze more cash out of its vulnerable customers. These fears have led the Financial Conduct Authority watchdog to take the unusual step of writing to van Kuffeler, to warn him lower standards will not be tolerated. NSF could now cut its threshold for pushing the deal through to 75 per cent of the company's shareholders. It already has the backing of three large investors who control more than half of the shares. Meanwhile, the Provvy was forced to clarify that it was not forecasting future profits, which is against City rules, when it said it a trading update last week that it is targeting returns of 20 per cent to 25 per cent in 2021 onwards. Travis Perkins is leading the FTSE 250 risers today after the building and DIY group lifted the lid on an improved performance at Wickes, its struggling DIY chain. Sales jumped 10.5 per cent at Wickes in the first three months of the year. The retailer benefited from strong orders of kitchens and bathrooms, as well as a 'soft prior year comparative'. Travis Perkins' retail chain Wickes enjoyed strong sales at the start of 2019, it said today This time last year, the chain was hammered by the so-called 'Beast from the East'. The weather at the start of 2019, however, was much more DIY friendly. Shares jumped 3 per cent in early trading on Wednesday to 14.40, making Travis Perkins the biggest riser in the FTSE 250. The group, which also owns fast-growing Tool Station, is in the process of cutting costs and simplifying. It said in December that it would dispose of its plumbing and heating division, where sales fell 4 per cent during the period amid the milder weather. Travis Perkins also placed Wickes under review last year and is considering selling the retail chain as it turns its focus to its core trade customers. Today, outgoing boss John Carter said the figures were 'encouraging' - particularly given the 'ongoing political uncertainty' which has weighed heavily on most home and DIY firms in the last couple of years. 'The actions set out at our capital markets day in December 2018 to deliver best-in-class service to trade customers and to simplify the group are well under way,' he added. Carter is set to step down after a 40-year stint at the firm, including 18 years as a director and five as chief executive. He will be succeeded by Atkins CEO Nick Roberts in July. 'DIY will remain tough in 2019 but Wickes is in better relative shape than its competitors, as its proactive approach to market conditions means it is not attempting to turn itself around in tough conditions,' said Matthew Walton, an analyst at GlobalData. 'While Kingfisher remains only halfway through implementing its Kingfisher One strategy and Homebase still requiring a lot of work despite its more positive end to 2018, Wickes can continue to enhance its offer and gain share.' The Co-operative Bank swung to a pre-tax loss of almost 30million in the first three months of the year as it continues to battle to restore order to its balance sheet. The bank, which was rescued by hedge funds in 2017, effectively becoming a separate entity to the Co-operative Group, also said the separation of its IT infrastructure from its historic owner was on track. The Co-op Bank booked a pre-tax loss of 28.6million and an underlying loss of 5.1million, in line with expectations. Loss making: The Co-operative Bank continues to battle to restore order to its balance sheet But chief executive Andrew Bester said the bank had made 'encouraging progress' in the first quarter, reaching some 'key milestones against a challenging UK retail banking market and uncertain economic backdrop'. It comes as the lender returned to profit for the first time in five years in 2018, swinging to a 14million operating profit. In the first quarter of this year, total income rose by 2 per cent, thanks to strong margins on customers deposits, which helped offset a weaker performance in mortgages. Co-op Bank saw 1 per cent growth in both customer lending and deposits, and saw a 5 per cent increase in product switching. In 2017, the Co-op Bank reached a 700million deal with hedge funds that saved it from near-collapse. Bester added: 'Another focus area this year is to fix the basics that will provide a platform for development in future years, including concluding the separation of our IT infrastructure from the Co-op Group, and we are making good headway.' Middle-class fashion favourite Joules is known for its colourful wellies and Breton-striped tops Middle-class fashion favourite Joules has poached retail veteran Nick Jones from Asda to be its next chief executive. Jones, 46, has worked in the sector since he joined Marks and Spencer in 1995. He spent 15 years there before joining Asda in 2011 to run its George clothing brand and now sits on Asda's executive board as commercial director of George and general merchandise. Jones will start at Joules, which is known for its colourful wellies and Breton-striped tops, by the end of this year and will work with outgoing boss Colin Porter for a short handover period. Chairman Ian Filby said 'extensive retail, brand and strategy' experience made him the outstanding candidate. Jones said: 'I have long admired Joules for its distinctive brand, its outstanding products and designs, and its connection with its customers.' His appointment comes five weeks after Joules said Porter, who took over from its founder Tom Joule in 2015, would step down by May 2020. Porter oversaw the firm's debut on AIM in 2016, which gave it a value of 140 million, and is leaving the 30-year-old company in good shape. Joules has managed to buck the widespread trend of doom and gloom on the High Street, outperforming the wider market and seeing its share price rise more than 70 per cent since its float. It is now worth 244 million and has about 120 stores in the UK and Ireland. Shares, which listed at 160p each, rose 1.1 per cent, or 3p, to 275p. Millions of workers who save in line with the minimum contribution rate provided by the Government will retire with little over 300 a month on top of their state pension. Exclusive research for Money Mail reveals how workers who save the suggested minimum portion of their salary towards retirement during their working lives will fall woefully short of the amount they need. The ground-breaking auto-enrolment initiative, which collects pension contributions from workers' salaries and their employers, has been credited with kick-starting widespread saving for retirement. Pension pitrfall: Workers who save the suggested minimum portion of their salary towards retirement during their working lives will fall woefully short of the amount they need But experts fear households who follow the Government's new guidelines and pay 5 per cent of salary into a workplace scheme, topped up by a further 3 per cent from their employer, could mistakenly believe they are saving enough. In order to retire on an income that comes even close to their current salary, they would need to put aside hundreds of pounds more a month. Insurer Royal London's analysis, based on income received from an annuity, shows just how little people who save the minimum contribution of 8 per cent will have to live on. A 25-year-old with a starting salary of 23,500 that grows by 2.5 per cent a year will build a fund of 104,800 by the age of 65. This would pay out 3,800 a year or 316 a month. Combined with your state pension of around 730 a month you would have 1,046 a month to live on. A 45-year old earning 35,000, growing at the same rate, would build up a fund of 65,600 if they retire at 65. The fund would pay out 2,400 a year or 200 a month. While an annuity provides a guaranteed payment until you die, you may be able to take a larger income from your pot through a drawdown pension. Helen Morrissey, pension expert at Royal London, says: 'It is brilliant we are saving more but the Government's latest increase to the minimum workplace pension contributions could make people feel they are already saving for a comfortable retirement. There is a real danger of a generation of workers sleepwalking into retirement poverty.' More than ten million workers pay in to an auto-enrolment pension scheme, a Government initiative launched in 2012 to encourage people to save for their retirement, according to Royal London. The scheme has been more successful than expected, with only around 9 per cent of workers choosing to opt out. The amount you and your employer contribute to your workplace pension increased on April 6. Employees' contributions rose from 3 per cent to 5 per cent while your employer now has to chip in 3 per cent, up from 2 per cent. You must earn 10,000 or more to qualify for auto-enrolment. A 25-year-old with a starting salary of 23,500 that grows by 2.5 per cent a year will build a fund of 104,800 by the age of 65. This would pay out 3,800 a year or 316 a month But not all your salary is taken into account. The first 6,032 you earn does not qualify. So on 20,000, only 13,698 is used to calculate your pension contributions. And any earnings over 46,350 are also discounted from the scheme. Former Pensions Minister Baroness Altmann says: 'It is hugely worrying that people are not putting enough money aside now for their retirement, only to regret it later. The minimum recommended contribution is exactly that, a minimum 'It is concerning that people think they are being advised by the Government that this is enough to retire on. 'Auto-enrolment is just there to kick start people's retirement savings.' If you want to retire on 25,000 a year, you should receive 8,767 in state pension to start with. You will then need to build up a pension pot of 441,900 to provide the remaining 16,233. To do this, a 25-year old would need to save 660 a month. While someone aged 45 would need to save 1,570 a month. In reality, many households will no longer be repaying a mortgage, saving for retirement or paying to travel to work, so could retire on two thirds of their pre-retirement salary without seeing a drop in their living standards. But as the proportion of people renting is now neck and neck with those who are homeowners, a growing number of people will be still be paying towards the cost of their housing in retirement. According to Royal London, people should aim to save around 14 per cent of their salary towards a pension. Ms Morrissey advises workers to find out the maximum their employer will contribute. 'Some companies will match your contributions if you increase them which is a great incentive to save more,' she says. Another way to increase savings without feeling the pinch is to wait until you receive a pay rise. By putting the increase in your pension you will not miss what you never had. A DWP spokesman says: 'Current contribution rates are designed to balance bringing people into saving with affordability for both savers and employers, and the recent increase to the minimum contribution rate will help people to save more.' The Government will keep minimum contribution rates under review. s.partington@dailymail.co.uk Gordon Browns decision to sell off Britains gold reserves was the single worst investment of modern times, it was claimed last night. Twenty years ago this week the then-chancellor started selling off a significant share of the reserves, when the price of bullion was at a 20-year low. Over three years, Mr Brown sold 401 tons of gold out of the Treasurys 715 ton holding, at an average price of $275 an ounce. The sale generated around $3.5billion or 2.4billion. If Mr Brown had kept the gold, it would now be worth around 17billion. Mr Brown sold 401 tons of gold out of the Treasurys 715 ton holding, at an average price of $275 an ounce The average price since the sale ended has been almost quadruple that price, at around $1,000. This week it stood at more than $1,200 an ounce and at one point, in September 2011, prices reached a record high of $1,920 an ounce. Last night, Adrian Ash, director of research at BullionVault, the online investment gold service, said: Today marks the 20th anniversary of Gordon Browns infamous gold sales decision, more than halving the UKs national reserves at the lowest prices in two decades between 1999 and 2002. Perhaps the single worst investment of modern times, Browns decision came as the Tech Stock Bubble peaked and many other Western central banks also cut their holdings. Since then the global financial crisis has plainly made the case why private investors should hold a little gold as insurance, while emerging-market nations led by Russia and China have dramatically added to their national gold reserves. Last year, Chancellor Philip Hammond described the sell-off as the most potent symbol of the economic mismanagement of the last Labour government. The price fell sharply the moment the Treasury pre-announced its intention to sell parcels of gold reserves in a series of auctions over three years. With the proceeds of the sales, the Treasury bought euros, dollars and yen. The sale generated around $3.5billion or 2.4billion. If Mr Brown had kept the gold, it would now be worth around 17billion Last night Charlie Elphicke, a Tory member of the Treasury select committee, said: Gordon Browns incompetence cost the taxpayer an eye-watering sum of money. With these billions we could have provided better-funded public services, with more police, more teachers and more nurses. The decision to sell off the gold was made despite serious misgivings at the Bank of England. Documents released in 2010 revealed that Mr Brown made repeated efforts to persuade the Bank to agree a joint proposal on the gold sell-off. The Bank offered him advice in September 1998 but it was rejected. The Bank is thought to have told the then-chancellor to delay at least part of the sale until the price improved. Lord George, who was then the Banks governor, offered only the most lukewarm endorsement of the decision at the time, telling MPs it was a perfectly reasonable portfolio decision. The losses are estimated at three times the amount lost when Britain left the Exchange Rate Mechanism on Black Wednesday in 1992. American Consumer News, LLC dba MarketBeat 2010-2021. All rights reserved. 326 E 8th St #105, Sioux Falls, SD 57103 | U.S. Based Support Team at [email protected] | (844) 978-6257 MarketBeat does not provide personalized financial advice and does not issue recommendations or offers to buy stock or sell any security. Our Accessibility Statement | Terms of Service | Do Not Sell My Information 2021 Market data provided is at least 10-minutes delayed and hosted by Barchart Solutions. Information is provided 'as-is' and solely for informational purposes, not for trading purposes or advice, and is delayed. To see all exchange delays and terms of use please see disclaimer. 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NORRISTOWN Efforts to make Norristown greener bore fruit with a silver level certification from Sustainable Pennsylvania community certification program. Brandon Ford, special assistant to the borough administrator and executive director of Keep Norristown Beautiful, announced the achievement to borough council on Tuesday. Keep Norristown Beautiful, which began last year, is an affiliate of Keep America Beautiful and the only branch of that nonprofit in Montgomery County, he said. Our mission is to inspire and empower people to make a difference, Ford said. Weve generated $1.79 in benefits for every dollar invested in the program. Sustainability is not only environmental, but includes social equity and economic vitality, he said. It aims to balance the demands of today with the needs of the future. Autumn McClure, an intern, presented the results of a sustainability audit performed for the borough. The audits and certifications are part of a voluntary performance program to help municipalities save money conserve resources, she said. The results can be added to grant applications, as well. Norristown scored the highest in education (100 percent); environmental stewardship (60 percent); and housing (62 percent). The perfect score in education was due to successful public engagement and community outreach from Keep Norristown Beautiful, she said. The housing category was high because of zoning ordinances and laws against discrimination. And environmental stewardship reached the 60 percent mark because of conservation and restoration efforts and work cleaning up the community, she said. Our greatest opportunity for growth is in the energy use, green building and conservation category, she said. At only 10 percent, they could improve their score in that area with an energy audit of all borough buildings and including energy conservation measures in future comprehensive plans. Energy conservation features could also be included in the renovation of Borough Hall, including energy efficient appliances, geothermal heating and cooling systems, skylights, motion sensor controlled lights and solar panels. We can also raise public awareness of energy conservation efforts, she said. This would allow for a decrease in energy use. It would also serve as an example for our visitors who come to City Hall, she said. Last month, council also committed to transitioning Norristown to 100 percent renewable energy by voting to join the Sierra Clubs Ready for 100 campaign. The silver certification puts Norristown on par with Radnor, Upper Dublin, West Chester Borough and West Norriton that have also earned that level, Ford said. We were a few points shy of gold but there is always next year, he said. He hopes to shoot for the platinum level. Council woman Olivia Brady asked about the boroughs goals. Ford said hes had some preliminary conversations with the code enforcement department regarding borough building codes to improve energy conservation. Brady also asked about making solar panels accessible for residents and Ford said, Absolutely. Council President Sonya Sanders thanked Ford and McClure for their efforts. Schenectady Siemens AG in Germany is spinning off its power plant business in hopes of avoiding the fate of General Electric Co., which has suffered through several years of bad results posted by its GE Power unit. Siemens announced Tuesday that it would spin off its Gas and Power unit and combine it with Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, a Spanish company in which Siemens has a 59 percent stake. GE Power, which has major operations in Schenectady, has dragged down GE's bottom line results over the past two years and led to major layoffs and changes in the executive ranks. GE Power suffered from over-ambitious sales projections during a period of market stagnation and flat power-plant equipment sales. The renewable energy market has not grown as fast as had been projected by GE executives. Although GE chose to spin off or sell other units such as its health care and transportation operations, it has held onto GE Power, which traces its roots back to Thomas Edison and GE's creation in Schenectady in 1892. Siemens, which is one of GE's biggest competitors, had no such hesitation as it seeks to reshape itself in a program called Vision 2020+ that is designed to make the company more nimble and able to withstand market forces. By spinning off its Gas and Power business, Siemens says it will better align that unit's goals with shareholders who will own it. "This move will create a powerful pure play in the energy and electricity sector with a unique, integrated setup an enterprise that encompasses the entire scope of the energy market like no other company," Siemens CEO Joe Kaeser said in a statement Tuesday. While GE has not shied away from job cuts at GE Power GE has been laying off thousands across the unit, including hundreds in Schenectady Siemens has a different approach since it is in the European Union where labor rules are vastly different than in the United States. The combined Siemens Gas and Power and its renewable energy business will have 80,000 employees. Birgit Steinborn, the chairwoman of the Central Works Council of Siemens AG, a labor union, said she expects "employee expertise to be retained" at Siemens despite the changes coming to the power unit. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. "We reject unimaginative job-cutting programs," she said. GE's CEO Larry Culp Jr. has instead sought to trim GE Power's executive ranks and cut costs. The moves appear to have started to work. GE Power has begun to turn a corner, posting a better-than-expected first quarter profit of $80 million. "We saw better-than-expected results this quarter largely due to timing," Culp said during GE's first quarter earnings announcement. "While we have a lot of work to do, we're making progress and the business is in the early days of its turnaround." GE's renewable energy unit which also has employees in Schenectady did not fare as well during the first quarter of 2019. GE's renewable unit lost $172 million during the quarter due in part to tariffs and development costs of its new 12-megawatt Haliade-X offshore wind turbine, which is the largest in the world at nearly 900 feet. When it comes to getting by as an artist, there's an old saying: "Sing for your supper." This weekend in North Adams, Mass., the phrase could be updated to "Create for your health care." On Saturday, the O+ Festival will fill the grounds of MASS MoCA and nearby streets with muralists and musical acts, plus workshops and seminars on various aspects of traditional and alternative wellness. Meanwhile, 150 participating artists and volunteers will be receiving free treatments from about 60 practitioners. The event culminates with an 8 p.m. ticketed performance by Les Nubians, a French duo known for a distinctive blend of R&B and hip-hop. The first O+ (O Positive) took place in Kingston in 2010 where it has continued annually. Since then, festivals have sprung up in Poughkeepsie, the Bronx, Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area. While the model remains the same artists doing their thing before or after receiving care from health practitioners each festival is a locally produced undertaking. In North Adams, the artistic scene is strong, but access to health care is limited. "We have such a vibrant creative community that keeps attracting artists trying to be artists. MASS MoCA has created a tidal wave of people moving here," says festival director Jessica Sweeney. "But as an artist your income fluctuates. You can qualify for free health care in down months, then you get some work or get some gigs and it's oh no now you need to pay for insurance. And a lot of people can't afford the amount they're being asked to pay." Sweeney, 30, is a concert producer who also plays the ukulele and makes jewelry. She adds that even with insurance or cash in hand, seeing a local primary care provider can involve a six-month wait for an appointment. A series of conversations with peers about this common struggle prompted her to gather a team and take action. "The idea is to build this large network that can help people get reliable health care, or at least some health care," she says. "I've spent days with providers telling them this is what we need to do bring health care to the community not make them come to us. We need to think about it differently." A key partner in the endeavor has been Berkshire Health Systems, a hospital with campuses in Pittsfield and North Adams. Sweeney describes the institution as "wildly supportive," and MASS MoCA's in-kind support as "priceless." Finding willing artists was not a problem; organizers did outreach within a 50-mile radius, mainly in the northern Berkshires and southern Vermont. On Saturday, the headquarters will be MASS MoCA's oversized "green room." Artists will be invited to check in, have some food and be directed to their appointments, some of which will occur in physicians' downtown offices. While no individual services will be provided, the music and seminars are a pay-what-you-will for a wristband that allows full access. The seminars include sessions on sustainable health, learning to run, and "grocery store wellness," among many other topics. "This is for the entire community. Everyone gets to participate in the larger dialogue about health care and how we care for each other in the community," says Sweeney. Last fall Sweeney and Mark Pettus, a physician from Berkshire Health, attended Kingston's O+ Festival. While their intention was to observe and get some pointers on the logistical challenges that awaited them, Sweeney explains that they came away motivated and inspired. "People were celebrating health care in a way I'd never seen before, really wanting to help each other. It was a beautiful thing and affirmed why I wanted to make this happen," says Sweeney. "This is holistic, not just about going to the doctor, but taking care of each other. Everyone danced and laughed and enjoyed amazing art in various forms. Art, too, is a way of taking care of yourself." Joseph Dalton is a freelance writer based in Troy. The following capsule reviews of recent releases, long runs and revivals come from various wire services, as noted: RATINGS: G - Suitable for all ages. PG - Parental guidance recommended. PG-13 - Parental guidance strongly suggested. R - Restricted; anyone under 18 must be accompanied by adult. NC-17 - No children under 17. Excellent Good Fair Poor Amazing Grace Documentary. A long-lost documentary presenting Aretha Franklin with choir at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Watts, Los Angeles, in January 1972. It's an important document, but not among the great music documentaries. It lacks the interviews and insight necessary to put the recording sessions into proper context, in terms of history and Franklin's career. But that voice will bring all viewers closer to their higher powers. (G) (Carla Meyer, Hearst Newspapers) Avengers: Endgame Action. After the devastating events of "Avengers: Infinity War," the universe is in ruins. With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers assemble once more in order to undo Thanos' actions and restore order to the universe. With "Avengers: Endgame," the Marvel saga of many, many films in many, many moods comes to a finish, in a way that will satisfy millions of fans. (PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and some language) (Mick LaSalle, Hearst Newspapers) The Best of Enemies Drama. Civil rights activist Ann Atwater (Taraji P. Henson) faces off against C.P. Ellis (Sam Rockwell), Exalted Cyclops of the Ku Klux Klan, in 1971 Durham, N.C., over the issue of school integration. "The Best of Enemies," if only by virtue of its title, isn't suspenseful in the usual way, but it is a pleasure to watch, not only thanks to Henson and Rockwell, but to the meticulous recreation of the era. (PG-13 for thematic material, racial epithets, some violence and a suggestive reference) (M.L.) Breakthrough Drama. When her 14-year-old son drowns in a lake, a faithful mother (Chrissy Metz) prays for him to come back from the brink of death and be healed. Also stars Josh Lucas, Topher Grace and Mike Colter. "Breakthrough" might be the first faith-based Hollywood film with genuine crossover appeal. This is not a Lifetime movie with a bigger budget, but a thoughtful, albeit conventional film that tackles a lot of issues, not all of them religious. (PG for thematic content including peril) (G. Allen Johnson, Hearst Newspapers) The Curse of La Llorona Horror. Ignoring the eerie warning of a troubled mother suspected of child endangerment, a social worker (Linda Cardellini) and her own small kids are soon drawn into a frightening supernatural realm. "The Curse of La Llorona" relies heavily on jump scares, rather than anything existentially terrifying, and goes for the low-hanging fruit: sequences you know will end with some kind of jump, bump or scream, and jokes that cut the tension and indicate everyone here knows what's up. We do. (R for violence and terror) (Katie Walsh, Tribune News Service) High Life Thriller. A father (Robert Pattinson) and his daughter struggle to survive in deep space where they live in isolation, in acclaimed director Claire Denis' latest. Also stars Juliette Binoche. "High Life" is slow, not by accident and not really by miscalculation, but because it probably had to be. Put it this way: It's admirable, but it has long stretches of dull, and the tickets aren't free. (R for disturbing sexual and violent content including sexual assault, graphic nudity, and for language) 1/2 (M.L.) The Intruder Thriller. A young married couple (Meagan Good and Michael Ealy) buy a beautiful house on several acres of land only to find out that the man (Dennis Quaid) they bought it from refuses to let go of the property. Beyond its catchy concept a Realtor from hell "The Intruder" is pretty much by the numbers and highly predictable. The couple are ho-hum characters, and their skimpy back stories don't ring true. The same goes for the seller, but Quaid is a deceptively versatile actor, and he seems to relish the B-movie trappings, letting loose and going over the top from the first frames. Whatever we think of his manic performance, he makes us uncomfortable and gives this movie some much-needed life. These character issues don't make the competently made and decently paced movie unwatchable. (PG-13 for violence, terror, some sexuality, language and thematic elements) (David Lewis, Hearst Newspapers) Long Shot Comedy. When Fred Flarsky (Seth Rogen) reunites with his first crush, one of the most influential women in the world, Charlotte Field (Charlize Theron), he charms her. As she prepares to make a run for the Presidency, Charlotte hires Fred as her speechwriter and sparks fly. "Long Shot" is a rare romantic comedy that actually has ideas about something besides romance. It's about politics and ethics and ambition serious issues, which it handles comically, but not flippantly. Like the best love stories, funny or otherwise, this movie recognizes that being in love is an education, and that, if people are lucky, they choose the right teacher. Along the way as if effortlessly, and yet intelligently "Long Shot" is an imaginative riff on our Trump-saturated world. It takes some aspects of our current national life and changes or exaggerates others, so that we get a funhouse version of 2019. (R for strong sexual content, language throughout and some drug use) (M.L.) Lost & Found Comedy. Seven interconnecting stories set in and around a lost and found office of an Irish train station. (NR) Missing Link Animated. Written and directed with flair by Chris Butler, a British animator who also wrote the screenplay to the Oscar-nominated "Kubo and the Two Strings," "Missing Link" is satisfying with several nice visual touches, including a bravura fight sequence aboard an ocean freighter being tossed by massive waves. (PG for action/peril and some mild rude humor) (G.A.J.) The Mustang Drama. The story of Roman Coleman (Matthias Schoenaerts), a violent convict, who is given the chance to participate in a rehabilitation therapy program involving the training of wild mustangs. There is thought, feeling, strangeness and beauty in the first five seconds of "The Mustang," and within no more than a minute of screen time, we know that director Laure de Clermont-Tonnere has authority and vision and that "The Mustang" is going to be a good movie. (R for language, some violence and drug content) 1/2 (M.L.) Penguins Documentary. In Disneynature's latest Earth Day-themed nature documentaries, a penguin named Steve works hard to build a suitable nest, find a life partner and start a family. Narrated by Ed Helms. (G) (Michael Ordona, Hearst Newspapers) Pet Sematary Horror. A couple and their children move near a mysterious burial ground that unleashes an unspeakable evil. With Jason Clarke and John Lithgow. The new "Pet Sematary," directed by Kevin Kolsch and Dennis Widmyer, isn't bad, but seems unnecessary. As one character tried tell us back in 1989 and again in 2019, "Sometimes, dead is better." (R for horror violence, bloody images, and some language) (G.A.J.) Shazam! Adventure."Shazam!" is one of the better superhero movies, because it seems to forget its superhero nature for the longest stretch of time. After about 100 minutes, it does default back to the usual nonsense of protracted superhero battles and commotion that makes a movie screen seem like a very big computer monitor. But until then, "Shazam!" is sensitive, imaginative and funny, with a good story and a smart premise. (PG-13 for intense sequences of action, language, and suggestive material) (M.L.) Sunset Drama. A young girl grows up to become a strong and fearless woman in Budapest before World War I. From Laszlo Nemes, the director of the Oscar-winning "Son of Saul." "Sunset" was shot in an interesting way, but it's not an interesting movie. Everything about it is intentional, and occasionally it's visually impressive, but nothing about the visuals seems connected to the story's drama, which is fairly nonexistent. It's a cold and rather opaque piece that tries an audience's patience, for two hours and 20 long minutes. (R for some violence) 1/2 (M.L.) UglyDolls Animated. The free-spirited UglyDolls confront what it means to be different, struggle with a desire to be loved, and ultimately discover who you truly are is what matters most. Featuring the voices of Kelly Clarkson, Blake Shelton, Janelle Monae, Nick Jonas, Pitbull, Gabriel Iglesias, Bebe Rexha and Wanda Sykes. "UglyDolls" is a mind-numbing, low-rent version of "Toy Story," with saccharine songs and a plot with echoes of, no kidding, the Holocaust. (PG for thematic elements and brief action) (G.A.J.) Wild Nights with Emily Comedy-drama. Comedic dramatization of the life of the writer Emily Dickinson's (Molly Shannon) life, in particular, her relationship with another woman. The deepest challenge of any dramatization of Emily Dickinson's life is to reconcile the poetry, which is dark, bold and strange, with Dickinson's legend as a meek and mild recluse. Writer-director Madeleine Olnek explains Emily to us in a way that makes sense, while giving her a life worth living, one much better than sitting in her room all day. (PG-13 for sexual content) (M.L.) From Kristi Gustafson Barlette's blog: When I left the hospital after my oldest was born, I rode home with my pants around my ankles. After having my youngest, my then 2-year-old asked why I still looked pregnant when she came to the hospital to visit, even though her sister was now out in the world. In both cases, I was but 48 hours postpartum and the weight as would be expected was still padding my frame. Add to that the drugs that had been pumped into my system to bring my overdue daughter into the world and I looked like Gwenyth Paltrow's character in "Shallow Hal." While this is the norm for us common folk, it's anything but expected with celebrities. They leave the hospital or emerge from their home birth looking refreshed, stylish, toned. Remember when Kate Middleton emerged on the steps fewer than 24 hours after having her children looking like she'd been on vacation at a spa, not inside in labor? Then there's Meghan Markle, Prince Harry's wife. We saw her Wednesday morning for the first time since giving birth to the couple's first child, a baby boy, and she looked ... real. Her face was full, her makeup minimal and her baby bump almost as apparent as it was a week ago and it was glorious. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. While I don't fault the beauty of celebrity and certainly like a pretty package, Markle's appearance was relatable and a true reflection of what women look like in the days, weeks even months after giving birth. Another example of Markle being the people's princess and showing the world she's a bit like us. It's hard to pick a single food memory or recipe tied to my mom. An amazing cook, my mom helped instill a love of cooking that grows today. There have always been my favorite recipes of hers: Seafood casserole, pasta pies, her cheesecake decked out with sour cream topping. Some recipes were rare misses. (I'm looking at you, spinach quesadilla.) But I think the memories tied to meals are better than the food itself. We watched the Food Network after my sister and I came home from school, especially when I started branching out and cooking by myself, and printed out Giada De Laurentiis recipes we wanted to make. There was the teary relief one particularly hamstrung Thanksgiving when someone left groceries for an entire holiday meal on our back porch. Laughing around the dinner table, especially when mom called Hannah out for looking and making faces in the windows as if they were mirrors. We asked our readers for their own recipes and memories that tie them to their moms or maternal figures. We received stories about moms who always cooked, and moms who never cooked. Women who crafted recipes from things found and grown nearby, and people who learned how to move around a kitchen, thanks to these women. Happy Mothers Day to all the important women in our lives. Sara Tracey *** I'd like to share a memory of my beloved Aunt Shirley who was my mentor and a mother to me in so many ways. She has suffered from Alzheimer's disease for nearly 7 years now, making Mother's Day bittersweet for me, but in honor of her and the memories we made with each other, I'd like to share her Taralli (Italian Pepper Cookie) recipe. We are Irish, however, both married into Italian families, so it goes without saying that we had to learn to cook and bake the Italian way! So mangia and Happy Mother's Day to all!!! Clarie Anne Mone Shirley Bagnoli's Italian Taralli with Fennel & Pepper 3/4 cup warm water (plus 1 tablespoon for the egg wash) 2 teaspoons dry yeast (rapid-rise) 1 teaspoon sugar 1/2 cup dry white wine 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for coating the bowl 2 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour (plus enough for work surface) 1 cups semolina flour 2 teaspoons fine sea salt 2 teaspoons coarse ground black pepper 2 teaspoons fennel seed 1 large egg Place 3/4 cups water in a medium bowl. Sprinkle yeast over it, then stir in the sugar. Let it sit until foamy (about 10 minutes). Stir in wine and oil. Combine the all-purpose and semolina flours, salt, pepper and fennel seed in stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Beat on low speed briefly, to incorporate, then add yeast mixture; beat (low speed) just until a dough comes together. Switch to the dough-hook attachment; knead on medium speed until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 3 minutes). Lightly flour your work surface. Turn out the dough and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Coat a large bowl lightly with oil and add the dough, turning it over to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot until doubled in size (about 1 - 2 hours) Position oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven; preheat to 350 degrees. Line two 11-by-17-inch baking sheets with parchment paper (I use baking mats). Divide the dough into 2 equal balls. Keep one covered with plastic wrap; divide the other ball into 28 small portions. Roll each portion into a 6-inch rope. Join the ends of each rope and pinch together to create a small ring (like tortellini). Lay the rings on the two baking sheets, spacing the rings 1 inch apart. Repeat with the second ball of dough. Whisk together the egg and the tablespoon of water in a cup. Use it to lightly brush each ring. Bake (upper and lower racks) until deep golden brown and crisp all the way through, 45 to 50 minutes, rotating the baking sheets from top to bottom and front to back halfway through. (or bake one sheet at a time on the middle rack.) Transfer taralli to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing. Can be stored for at least a month or more in air-tight container in cool, dry place. *** My mother (Libby Tillman Barnert, 1924-2002) said, in the 1970s, "I once knew a young lady who, when she got married, didn't even know how to make a cup of coffee. [pause] But I could make chicken!" David Barnert, Albany *** This recipe of my Mother's is one of many. She was a wonderful cook that had to manage with very little. We frequently ate weeds: Wild dandelion greens, mustard weeds, milk weed greens, are a few. JoAnn Werthner Mom's Cheese Souffle 1 cup scalded milk 1 cup bread squares 1 cup cheese cut into small pieces 1 tablespoon butter 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 eggs, separated 1/8 teaspoon mustard Mix first three items, Beat egg yolks and add to bread and cheese. Beat egg whites until stiff. Fold into mix. Bake in buttered dish for 20 minutes at 350 degrees. *** My maternal grandparents immigrated from Poland in 1911. My mother (now 97) learned the tradition of making pirogues from her mother. Every Christmas Eve, we would have both potato/cheese as well as cabbage pirogue, with coins inside. The tradition was that whoever obtained the most coins would be most successful in the coming year. I've continued carrying out this tradition for about the past 50 years with my family (I'm now 70). Although we don't make the cabbage version, all three of my children love the potato pirogue, and we always wrap coins in foil to hide amongst the filling. My daughter continues this tradition with her Polish boyfriend, and my granddaughter, who will be heading to college next year has also learned how to make these delicious treats. A wonderful tradition for at least five generations! Dan Brunelle *** It's a very simple thing. We would have 5 o'clock dinner all the time. My mother, Margaret, would put the canned green beans on the stove at 3:30 with the fire under it, on the stove cooking. I didn't know what a fresh vegetable was until much later on. That's why I started cooking at about 10 years old. It's stuck with me all my life. My wife and I have been married for 35 years and I've cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. Right now I'm making her roasted chicken and grits in chicken broth with a poached egg on top. Robert Whiting, Albany *** As a first generation Italian-American, it was important for Mom to teach her four daughters to cook and bake. With four weekends in a month, each of us had a chance to plan and execute meals and bake with her. I can remember, at age 7, not only learning to tell time but making thumbprint cookies for the first time. In subsequent lessons, I made baked chicken, mixing up cayenne pepper for paprika on the skin! Mom lived long enough to pass on her talents to my two daughters. When she moved to her own place, I made a book of recipes for my oldest daughter, many of which are her Grandma's in Grandma's handwriting. This Easter, she made pizzeles on Grandma's press. Denise Day, Menands *** Every time my father offered to cook a meal, my mom smiled. "I'd much rather wash the dishes than prepare them," she'd often say. Her potatoes were baked or boiled. Vegetable prep involved opening a can of peas or corn purchased at the Market Basket store on Main Street. I never tasted or even imagined cheese sauce topping broccoli in those halcyon days of my childhood in the 1950s, but we had butter. And salt, one of mom's go-to spices along with garlic powder and ketchup. Oops, butter's a misnomer. Those dollops on our nightly veggies were, in fact, oleomargarine practically tasteless, but undeniably, a sunny shade of yellow thanks to me. As a kid, I was overjoyed when mom asked me to "squeeze the oleo." She'd hand over a small plastic package of what looked like white lard with bright red dot strategically placed dead center just waiting to be "popped," and I'd start squeezing. Alchemy. A golden pound of ersatz butter appeared within minutes of my manipulations. Admittedly, meals at our house were mostly plain fare, unimaginative, but hardy. Mom's mantra was "Eat to live, not live to eat", except on those Saturday nights in winter when she made the most delectable chocolate fudge I've ever tasted. Creamy, rich, its flavor and texture have never been equaled in decades of taste testing; and being in the kitchen with my mother as she stirred this delectable candy is a cherished memory. Always, she used Hershey's cocoa and REAL butter purchased from Mr. Bezanilla, our milkman and local dairy farmer who also delivered milk and cream to our house every week. On those Saturday evenings, I'd stand by the stove waiting for minutes that seemed like hours until mom proclaimed, "Time for the soft-set test." I'd fill the glass measuring cup with cold water, and mom would drop about a tablespoon of the hot fudge mixture into the water to see if the sugary mass would hold together. She never used a candy thermometer, but her instincts for knowing when to stop cooking an begin stirring the butter and vanilla into the pot were infallible. After this, she'd pour the smooth thickened liquid into an eight-inch square pan that I would carry to the back porch where the sweet chocolate would "set up." Then came the moment when the candy was cut, and each of us my mom, dad, and me would sit together in the living room taking our first bites, sharing those hours before bedtime. Sometimes, we'd listen to the radio or play rummy or Old Maid; but what I loved best was listening to my parents tell stories about when they grew up, especially my father's descriptions of Halloween pranks. All these many years later, I think of those times and realize that a family tradition as simple as making fudge on Saturday nights inspires not only warm memories, but a vision of family love and togetherness that I've endeavored to offer my children and grandchildren. Chocolate and love in equal measure; surely, a recipe to keep and treasure. Thanks, Mom. Kay Salkin, Rensselaer *** As the story was told to me, my mother "couldn't boil water" when she and my father got married. The first time he made poached eggs for her early on in their marriage she asked if he was making egg soup. She never lived that down. But over the years she not only became a wonderful cook but also an outstanding baker making pie crusts, doughnuts and creme puffs the likes of which I've never mastered. She was fearless in the kitchen making meals for a family of six using a little of this and a little of that, as she used to say. She taught me to use what I had on hand. I can almost hear her say when I asked her how she made a particular dish and if I didn't have all the ingredients she would say, "Just use what you have." Her chicken and dumplings were to die for but I only got the most basic directions because she made it from memory and by taste. In later years, I had to learn to actually follow a recipe because we always used a little of this and a little of that to taste. I do have one of her few recipes I can share and use often and that's for crepes. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Happy Mother's Day, Mom. I miss you. XO Helen Kromp, Niskayuna Mom's Crepes 1 cup milk 1/2 cup flour 2 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon baking powder 2 eggs 1/2 teaspoon salt Heat milk and butter in saucepan. When slightly cooled, beat in eggs, flour, baking powder and salt. Beat until smooth. Heat a lightly greased 4" or 5" skillet. Pour enough batter to coat the bottom. Tilt skillet to cover pan. Cook 1 minute. Flip and lightly brown other side. We combined a 16-ounce carton of cottage cheese with one egg, filled a crepe with a spoon of mixture, rolled and baked in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes. She served them with canned cherry pie filling spooned over the top. The directions may have been vague, but they always came out delicious when I made them. *** When I was a kid, Spanish rice was a big dish that my mother made. She used a big, old Pyrex bowl that my sister now has. She used to put crushed corn flakes on top. Times were kind of tough and you had to make the food go around. We were a family of five. A girl my age lived nearby. When we had Spanish rice, she would come over. We are now 78. We were always back and forth to each other's houses. I just recently this past year got in touch with her. We went to high school together in a small town [Oneonta High School], and went our own ways. When we reconnected, she said, "Do you remember me going up to your house and having your mom's Spanish rice?" My sister still has the dish. My mom was a little on the controlling side and I did ask her for the recipe when I was younger, but she had every excuse in the world, you know. Later on my sister sent me a book of recipes, and the Spanish rice was in there. Irene Wiltsie, Castleton *** For a very rare treat, my Viennese mom would make a fluffy sort of pancake (to me, it seemed more like an omelette) that she called kaiserschmarrn. Although I enjoyed cooking from the time I was little, she never showed me how to make it, but I felt quite special on the few occasions that she prepared it. Kaiserschmarrn batter is made with flour, eggs, sugar, salt, and milk, and is baked in butter. Fruit, nuts, or jam can be mixed in, although I mostly recall it plain. Knowing my mom, if there was anything added, it would have been jam apricot or raspberry. When I looked at Kaiserschmarrn recipes today, it seemed as though most of them were made on top of the stove, but I definitely recall my mom baking hers. It was trotted out when I was sick (because it was so light, it was good even for tummy ailments), for special occasions, or to celebrate an accomplishment, although inevitably I had to ask for it it was seldom forthcoming on its own. Unlike me, my mom did not love cooking or baking, but she did derive pleasure from loved ones devouring her food. My mom has been gone for over 10 years, and her Kaiserschmarrn is hardly the thing I miss most about her, but it warms my heart to think about it, as well as the Gugelhupf (Bundt cake) and Wiener Schnitzel (veal cutlets) she was taught to make by my grandmother. I miss my mom dearly, and would give anything to have her back. I do make Gugelhupf and Wiener Schnitzel on rare occasions, but have never attempted Kaiserschmarrn. I'm not sure why, but I think it would feel wrong to be served it by any but her hands. Bettina Stoller, Albany *** It was a typical summer wet spell, around 2007. That warm July rain where everything in our little tucked away camp lakeside in Washington County was covered with a layer of moisture. Also, enough to make the three adults, one teenager, and two kids stir-crazy and at wits-end with each other. We had planned chicken for dinner for 3 days. It was that simple: Throw chicken and Italian dressing in a bag, let it marinate, and cook it on the grill. By day 3, my mother knew that the chicken had to get out of the refrigerator and be cooked. The skies looked clear enough that she figured she'd take the chance and get the chicken cooked. As we prepped sides and set the table, the skies opened up. It was not just a rain, but a downpour with some wind. A monsoon if you will. My mother was protected while grilling, shaded by a giant pine, but her walk back into camp, a whole five feet, would not be. What was worse, was as she tried to get into the camp, she realized that the door had locked by itself. My mother was standing in the doorway, yelling over the pelting rain, a platter of grilled chicken in her hands, its only cover was a piece of foil which was not protecting it at all. In the frenzy of the moment, I just remember the door swinging open and my mother standing there soaked to the bone, a complex mix of emotions on her face. Exactly how you would picture it in a movie. And as we gave her space after all we didn't want to get wet the laughter started. And it continued and didn't stop till after dinner. And as it turned out that chicken was amazing! It was, not surprisingly, very moist, but, surprisingly, full of flavor. We were very impressed with my mother's newest recipe: Monsoon chicken. My little cousin who was about 5 at the time was an extra big fan. He would ask for that chicken for the couple years to come. We have not been able to recreate Monsoon chicken, but we still laugh about it quite often especially during summer rains. Kallyn Alexander *** One meal my mom loved to serve was something she called Welsh Rabbit. As an animal lover with my own pet bunnies in the backyard, I was not too happy about the dish's name. It took some time for her to convince me that it didn't actually contain rabbit. (Instead, it was a variation of the word "rarebit.") I loved the simple, cheesy supper and it was inexpensive and quick for my busy single mom to prepare. Peggy Frezon, Rensselaer Welsh Rabbit 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons flour 1 cup milk 2 cups shredded Vermont cheddar cheese Saltine crackers Melt butter in saucepan. Stir in flour until smooth. Slowly add milk to make a white sauce. Sprinkle in cheese, stirring constantly. Arrange crackers on a plate and cover with cheese sauce. Mom always topped it with a dash of paprika. This is a story about the little guy vs. big bureaucracy, with the caveat that the governmental monolith is actually populated by people who recognize the problem even if they can't do anything about it. On one side is a little neighborhood store in the capital of New York meaning it's a mile and a half from where the big decisions in this case are being made. On the other is the state Department of Health, which had the significant challenge of switching 3,000 stores, from corner shops to major supermarket chains, from paper vouchers for the federally funded but state-administered Women, Infants and Children program to debit-style cards for the purchase of items like infant formula, cereal, milk, fruits and vegetables, eggs, cheese and other healthful foods. In the middle, literally, are the two city blocks that divide one ZIP code from another, which prevented that one little store called Fresh Neighborhood Market, in Albany's West Hill neighborhood from applying to be a WIC vendor when it opened last year. Instead, even if approved, Fresh Neighborhood Market won't be eligible until sometime in the fall, at the earliest. "This shouldn't be just a machine looking at the numbers. There has to be a human touch, because these are people being affected, their lives and their kids' lives," says Dileep Rathore, who opened the market, at First and Judson streets in West Hill, last November and has been trying ever since to become a WIC vendor. He seems like an obvious choice. The store is bright, clean and welcoming. Up front, fresh vegetables line a cooler, and if you range farther back, you'll find heartier produce, including butternut and other winter squash, and, for 49 cents a pound, yams. Infant formula and diapers are on the shelves. You can get a freshly made breakfast sandwich cooked-to-order eggs, choice of meat, cheese and condiments, on a fluffy, grilled roll for $4. The store doesn't sell alcohol or tobacco, because, although they no doubt would bring in much-needed income, Rathore doesn't believe they'd be good for the neighborhood. His neighborhood: He lives upstairs, after renovating a building that just two years ago had been condemned by the city as uninhabitable. He keeps the market open 14 hours a day on weekdays, 13 on Saturday. It's in one of the most disadvantaged parts of the city, where many residents don't have vehicles and are on public assistance. An estimated 600 people in a few-block radius receive WIC funds, according to the county legislator who represents the neighborhood. But, as I told you a few weeks back, Rathore hasn't been able to get certified as a WIC vendor because DOH issued a year-and-a-half moratorium on new WIC store applications while it changes from paper vouchers to debit cards. From last April to this coming October, no new applications are being accepted. The new system, called eWIC, is actually up and running, having been fully rolled out to all current WIC vendors by late April, according to the state. But new ones like Fresh Neighborhood Market, while they may pre-apply to determine eligibility and get the application process started, have to wait until fall to formally enroll. "It was really a transition of the entire system," says Nora Yates, director of DOH's Center for Community Health, which oversees programs, including WIC. It wasn't simply a matter of switching from paper vouchers to debit cards. All of the existing 3,000 stores that accept WIC across the state needed equipment, training, recertification and background checks for employees before they could begin accepting eWIC cards. There was an emergency provision under which a new store in an area judged to be underserved by WIC vendors could be approved before the application ban was lifted. But because Fresh Neighborhood Market is two blocks inside the eastern edge of the 12206 ZIP code, which includes big supermarkets up to 2 miles to the west, its application didn't justify emergency status, Yates says. She says her agency contacted the federal Department of Agriculture, which funds WIC, for a ruling on whether West Hill residents had sufficient access to WIC stores. "USDA did not think this was an issue," says Yates. Rathore and two local members of the state Assembly John McDonald, whose district includes West Hill, and Patricia Fahy, who represents other parts of Albany disagree. They point out that residents of the 12210 ZIP code, which starts two blocks from Fresh Neighborhood and includes the Arbor Hill and Center Square neighborhoods, have even fewer places to use their WIC benefits. On the DOH's WIC vendor map, the state lists two WIC vendors for 12210. But neither of the two, a Market 32 at 40 Delaware Ave. and a Price Chopper at 1060 Madison Ave., is actually in the 12210 ZIP code. Rathore believes his store should be judged for its proximity to the neighborhoods in 12210 that don't currently have a WIC vendor nearby. The legislators tell me they concur. They have been working on the matter for months. A conference call last month with DOH officials didn't go well, they tell me. "It was very disappointing and frustrating," McDonald says. "I don't think (DOH is) being flexible enough." Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Says Fahy, "We ended up at a bit of an impasse." Both Assembly members say they recognize that DOH has to operate according to federal guidelines, and, as Yates reiterated in my interview with her, government metrics say West Hill is adequately covered by existing supermarkets that are already WIC providers. But, as my colleague Diego Mendoza-Moyers noted in his March story about Rathore's struggles, neighborhood residents say that taking a bus to one of the WIC vendors is a round trip of more than an hour. This means that in some months, instead of being able to use WIC to get formula and vegetables from the nearby Fresh Neighborhood Market, they aren't able to use all of their WIC allocation, because they couldn't get to a big market. "We respectfully suggested that they reprioritize and recognize that this really is a food desert, but we didn't really get anywhere," says Fahy. "This (eWIC) rollout is so slow." "I was quite animated about it" during the conference call with DOH, says McDonald. "Since they already are doing testing, why can't they start enrolling new vendors? They said they couldn't." He added, "I can usually understand state bureaucracy, and I have a very good history in my dealings with DOH, but this wasn't one of those times." Yates tells me, "We have not heard of people being unable to redeem (WIC benefits)." In fact, she says, in 12206, "We have very good data to suggest that people are accessing their benefits to the fullest extent possible." McDonald says with resignation, speaking of Rathore, "He's fallen victim to really bad timing." Between the application pause, extended eWIC rollout, geographic squeeze and essentially immovable governmental regulations, "He got caught in this perfect storm that's making it take much longer than it seems like it should." Rathore tells me he estimates he misses out on $6,000 to $10,000 in sales monthly because he can't accept WIC. "As a businessman, I should open a liquor store," he tells me, noting that there are none in West Hill, Arbor Hill and Sheridan Hollow. "I've even got the business plan drawn up. But it just isn't the right thing to do. I want to be here and make this work, to help my neighbors and be a place for them to get good food, to get the things they need." The store is at 16 Judson St., at the corner of First and Judson streets. It is open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. sbarnes@timesunion.com 518-454-5489 @Tablehopping http://facebook.com/SteveBarnesFoodCritic TROY When Deanna Dal Pos moved back to the U.S. after living in Europe for a decade, she made a beeline to Saratoga Springs. It was where her parents had settled joining other residents who make Saratoga County the second fastest growing county in the state. But then Dal Pos started to miss Europe and a more intense urban environment. To satisfy her itch, she attended a street festival in Troy, a city that is about double the population of Saratoga Springs. It ultimately led to her moving to the Collar City continuing an unusual trend of migration that is happening from other Capital Region locations to Rensselaer County. While Saratoga still has one of the strongest population growths in New York state, Rensselaer is the only county in the Capital Region for which residents chose to leave Saratoga, according to the county-to-county migration flows tracked by the U.S. Census Bureau. It's been happening for the last several years. Click here for an interactive map showing county-to-county migrations. In fact, county-to-county migration patterns show Rensselaer is the only one of the four core Capital Region counties that has a positive flow of people moving in from Albany, Saratoga and Schenectady counties combined. Between 2012 and 2016, Rensselaer County saw 307 more residents move in from Saratoga County than it lost to Saratoga County, according to five-year estimates tabulated as part of the American Community Survey. "People were looking at me like I was insane. Why would you want to leave Saratoga," said Dal Pos, who now sells commercial real estate in Troy. She lives on River Street overlooking the Hudson River. "Troy has a more funky, downtown feeling. I get to be in Europe every day," she said. There are many reasons people opt for Rensselaer County, explained Mark Castiglione, executive director of the Capital District Regional Planning Commission. Troy is enjoying its urban renaissance, which is attractive to many people who now want to live in a city, Castiglione said. There's also the shorter commute into Albany, which remains the region's employment center. Plus, Castiglione said an employment boom at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals in East Greenbush is providing a new location for high-tech employees that competes with GlobalFoundries in Malta. The U.S. has 3,142 counties. The Capital Region's four core counties only see people moving to or from 10 percent of those 3,142 counties nationwide, according to a review of the U.S. Census Bureau's 2012-16 five-year estimates for the American Community Survey. Locally, Albany County saw more people move to and from other counties across the country, than the other core counties in the region. Residents moved back and forth between 324 counties. Albany County gained residents from 140 counties and lost people to the rest. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. In the other local counties, Rensselaer County gained residents from 141 counties as it saw residential movement with 249 counties. Saratoga County gained residents from 115 counties out of 291 counties. And Schenectady County gained population from 67 counties out of 206 counties. In the local movement, Rensselaer County gained people from the other three counties with 419 residents moving in from Albany; 96 from Schenectady and 307 from Saratoga. Among the other counties, Saratoga saw 638 people come from Schenectady and 458 from Albany. Schenectady County too gained people from Albany County as 342 moved in. Albany County lost residents to the other three counties. Typically, what lures residents away is housing, new jobs, schools, lower taxes and personal considerations, Castiglione said. The census county-to-county data also shows that Saratoga County gains residents from South Carolina. Those 737 people from three South Carolina counties reflect the movement of sailors headed north to the U.S. Navy's Nuclear Power Training Unit to train at the Kesselring site in Milton. This is unlike the typical migration in which New York state loses population to Southern and Western states. The state lost 452,580 residents recently, with Florida luring 63,700 and California 34,300 former New Yorkers, according to the census bureau. The region's migration numbers are small when compared to larger counties nationally. Los Angeles County saw 312,000 people move out in the past year, which is more residents than the 307,117 residing in Albany County. COLONIE - When two strangers came upon the scene of a car crash in Latham last August, the 89-year-old driver was fighting for his life. The man had a heart attack behind the wheel, lost control of his car and crashed into an open field next to the State Police barracks on Troy-Schenectady Road, police said. Immediately, passerbys Trevor English and Melinda Frazer-Landon rushed to help. They started doing cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the victim and called police. The first officer on the scene was Sgt. Louis DiNuzzo, who took over conducting CPR until EMS arrived and transported the victim to Samaritan Hospital. Police credit the three with saving the driver's life. The trio were among two dozen officers and civilians honored at Colonie Police Department's annual awards ceremony last Thursday at Verdoy Fire Department in Latham. Awardees are nominated by the police supervisor for the honor. "We would like to recognize the civilians especially. Sometimes we don't get the cooperation we always want. These are civilians that jumped in and helped," said Colonie Police Lt. Henry Rosenzweig, who recounted the stories of Colonie's everyday heroes. Kristen Loya was at home on Central Avenue around 1 p.m. on March 21 when she heard a window break next door. She looked outside and saw a man, his face covered with pantyhose and a crowbar in his hand, climbing through the window of a closed business. When she yelled, she startled him and he took off running. She called police and provided a direction of his flight and a "perfect description" Rosenzweig said. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Martin Howarth, who was working in the area, saw the same man running away. He also called police and followed at a safe distance in his car until the burglar was caught. Police discovered the suspect was on parole for burglary and had already committed a couple burglaries in the area. The case is still open, Rosenzweig said, but the neighborhood is now safer. "Due to her [Loya's] willingness to get involved in crime prevention in her neighborhood, a career burglar was taken off the streets," he told the Times Union. SCHENECTADY Preliminary discussions are underway about creating a human trafficking division in Schenectady City Court, the state Office of Court Administration has confirmed. Officials met with Schenectady County District Attorney Robert Carney last week about potentially developing the section into a regional specialty court. New York has 11 courts that specialize in labor and sex trafficking, but none serving the Capital Region. Prostitution arrests are complicated by immigration issues, violence, addiction and mental health problems. Human trafficking courts focus on victims' needs and seek to resolve cases without criminal charges, Carney said. "Very few of them do this sort of thing because this is what they want to do and have no other pathologies in their life," Carney said. "The vast majority get into this to feed their habits and they are exploited by the people who promote prostitution." The Capital Region's tourism industry and proximity to large cities make it appealing to traffickers and there have been a number of arrests in recent years. In Albany County, some Colonie hotels also make a convenient pit stop for sex traffickers who are passing through. Advocacy groups, such as the Capital Region Women's Bar Association, have expressed a need for a local court dealing with the issue, according to OCA spokesman Lucian Chalfen. "It can be helpful in all parties, the judge, prosecution and defense bar along with advocacy groups, being familiar with the law, issues and services," Chalfen said. Since the Capital Region straddles two sprawling judicial districts, there will be further discussions about coordination between the counties in those areas. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. The state in 2007 passed its first comprehensive human trafficking law, cracking down on the individuals who force young women and children into prostitution and creating screening system to identify and help victims. A decade later, relatively few trafficking arrests are made outside New York City, and many prosecutors continue to focus resources on arresting prostitutes rather than pimps and sex ring leaders. Some lawmakers have sponsored legislation moving the state towards decriminalization of prostitution. At the Capitol on Tuesday, sex workers and former trafficking victims rallied for the measures to end the state's loitering for prostitution law which they say has caused them to be profiled and harassed by law enforcement and the expungement of criminal records for those forced into the business. Prosecutors' treatment of prostitution is often shaped by the communities they represent and having a regional court could create a consistency of outcomes, according to Albany County District Attorney David Soares. "We are amazing people at planning to eradicate problems, we are not social workers or experts at addiction or trauma," Soares said. "The specialty courts do bring that expertise to the table. I would love to defer the more complicated decisions to them." ALBANY The State Police have closed a year-long internal investigation into allegations that its members assigned to a federal drug task force in New York City had padded overtime and used government vehicles for private travel. The agency declined to disclose details of the investigation, which did not result in criminal charges but led to suspensions and the retirements of up to a dozen troopers, according to people familiar with the probe. Historically, the offices of the state's inspector general and attorney general have allowed the State Police to handle investigations of wrongdoing by its members. These internal probes for alleged conduct that has included covering up drunken driving incidents, domestic assaults, child abuse, falsifying attendance records and harassment of romantic partners usually end with private discipline or forced resignations, according to court records and State Police documents that have been shared with the Times Union. In the task force investigation, a person briefed on the matter said there was concern that any pursuit of criminal charges would force the other law enforcement agencies in the task force, including the New York Police Department and DEA, to pursue deeper and potentially public investigations of their members' conduct. "I can confirm the internal investigation is complete," Beau Duffy, a State Police spokesman, said in an email this week. "Integrity is paramount at the New York State Police. All allegations of misconduct are thoroughly investigated and any violators will be held fully accountable." Although suspensions of police officers and retirement filings are a matter of public record, the agency did not provide details on how many troopers were disciplined or have had letters placed in their personnel files. "The disciplinary process is ongoing and we do not have information regarding suspensions," Duffy said."Further, retirement determinations are personal and are not considered a part of the disciplinary process. In fact, state agencies cannot legally prevent someone who is eligible from retiring. Since 2018, 12 members assigned to the DETF applied for service retirements." The investigation of troopers assigned to the 150-member federal Drug Enforcement Task Force (DETF) began in February 2018 when Francis Stabile III, then a State Police senior investigator, crashed his unmarked police SUV on a Dutchess County highway. He told a trooper who responded to the scene that he had lost control after swerving to avoid a deer. His SUV careened into a fence. A resident who heard the crash and walked outside said Stabile looked unsteady and had difficulty talking. Stabile's alleged delay in reporting the crash may have violated State Police regulations. The agency's policy also required that a higher-ranking member than Stabile come to the scene, though that didn't happen. The internal probe, which began with a review of the mishandling of the crash by troopers, pivoted to examine why Stabile was driving his undercover SUV more than 100 miles north of the federal Drug Enforcement Task Force's Manhattan headquarters while he was off-duty. Stabile's residence at the time was about eight miles south of the crash scene, according to public records. Stabile, 47, told the troopers who responded to the crash that he would take care of the damage to the federal vehicle, according to people briefed on the case. He reported the incident only after learning from an auto repair shop that there had been significant damage, four people familiar with the investigation told the Times Union last year. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Stabile abruptly retired in January. "I am proud to be hanging up my hat and starting a new chapter in my life," he wrote that month in an email sent to the entire Division of the State Police. "Hopefully I passed down all of the things that were taught to me by those who mentored me throughout my career." Stabile was at least the third trooper from the task force to retire since last year. Capt. James Murphy, who had been assigned to the DETF, abruptly retired a year ago. In January, when contacted by the Times Union, Stabile wrote in an email: "I will never give you negative information concerning the NYSP and I would caution you from contacting me again." The New York Police Department subsequently began examining the conduct of its officers assigned to the task force last year. A spokesman for that agency has declined to comment. The State Police have declined to say whether Stabile's retirement was part of a negotiation with the agency. The agency's spokesman would not immediately confirm whether Stabile was issued an official photo identification card that is provided to retiring members at the discretion of the agency. The cards identify the retirees as former troopers. Two years ago, the FBI in Boston arrested multiple current and former Massachusetts state troopers accused of padding their incomes by putting in for thousands of dollars in overtime they allegedly never worked. The U.S. Justice Department pursued that case, which focused on troopers who patrolled the Massachusetts Turnpike, under a statute that makes it a federal crime to steal from an agency that receives federal funding. ALBANY Lawmakers joined transgender activists, sex workers and human-trafficking victims at the Capitol on Tuesday to rally for the decriminalization of prostitution. They are pushing for a repeal of the state's "loitering for prostitution" ban, which advocates say has led police to profile and arrest transgender individuals without evidence of a crime. Actions like "waving at a car" and "wearing a skirt" are treated as evidence of criminal activity, according to New York penal law. "The law is ambiguous to the point of unconstitutional and gives law enforcement way too much discretion to antagonize and harass trans New Yorkers," Assemblyman Dan Quart, a co-sponsor of the bill, said. A second bill, which would broaden criminal record relief for trafficking survivors, passed the Senate codes committee on Monday. It builds on a 2010 amendment to New York's Criminal Procedure Law enabling survivors of trafficking to vacate "prostitution-related" convictions. Advocates say survivors of trafficking continue to be criminally prosecuted for a wide range of offenses, like drug charges or trespassing, that they were pressured to commit. Previous legislative efforts to address the loitering ban did not gain traction. Quart said some lawmakers are considering bill language to fully decriminalize the sex trade in New York. A number of prosecutors, including Albany County District Attorney David Soares, choose not to prosecute sex workers, instead targeting traffickers or exposing "johns" who create the demand. Schenectady District Attorney Robert M. Carney said his office has for years sought to get prostitutes out of the business, offering counseling and drug rehabilitation as an alternative to criminal penalties. But many sex workers choose the misdemeanor conviction and 90-day sentence over submitting to drug treatment or turning over their pimp or trafficker, he said. "You need leverage in order to change behavior," Carney said. "You really do need to figure out how to help people, and enhancing services is a better idea than increasing or decreasing penalties." The story of Song Yang, a Chinese immigrant who fell or jumped to her death in November 2017 from a fourth-story balcony during a New York Police Department raid of a Queens massage parlor, highlighted the toll of sex-trafficking crackdowns by law enforcement and spurred new activism on the issue. "I made a promise to the family of Yang Song's family that I will seek justice in her case, and I intend on keeping that promise," said Assemblyman Ron Kim, whose district includes the Flushing neighborhood where the tragedy occurred. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. In the Capital Region, the impact of human trafficking hit home in 2014, with the murder of a family of four, including two young boys, in Guilderland. The father, a Chinese immigrant, had ties to a network of exploitation and indentured servitude at Chinese takeout restaurants. While street-walking -- or loitering -- is not a significant problem in the region, law enforcement officials say they are increasingly concerned about the proliferation of illegal massage parlors that traffic women from overseas. "It's very hard to penetrate," Carney said. "There's also a language barrier, so it's very hard to see who's arranging it." In recent years, sex work has moved off the streets and onto the web, with prostitution services promoted through Craigslist and Backpage ads, according Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple. The city of Albany has seen a number of sting operations in recent years because it is a pass-though for traffickers headed for Montreal or Boston, and who often stop at hotels in Colonie, according to prosecutors. While the Albany County district attorney's office says it now won't prosecute sex workers, having the law on the books enables police to "make an initial arrest to get them into custody and get them out of there," Apple said. NEW YORK A former member of a "master/slave" group told jurors Wednesday she felt powerless to resist when NXIVM leader Keith Raniere performed oral sex on her in his Halfmoon home. "I felt like it was going on for a very long time. I was doing anything to make it stop," said the 32-year-old British woman, the first witness to testify at Raniere's racketeering trial in Brooklyn. The woman, who spent 13 years in NXIVM, is testifying under an immunity agreement with federal prosecutors in Brooklyn. The incident took place in a residence on Flintlock Lane in Halfmoon in 2015. Raniere has owned a townhouse on Flintlock Lane for years. The woman was married at the time and, at Raniere's direction, had remained celibate with her husband for two years. She walked to Raniere's home where he led her upstairs, asked her to undress and took photos. He then performed oral sex on her, she said. When he was done, Raniere told her: "Now you're part of the inner circle." "Did you want to participate in that?" Assistant U.S. Attorney Moira Penza asked the woman on Wednesday. "No," the woman replied. But she said she had been ordered by her "master," identified as Monica Duran, to do as Raniere wished. "I understood that as a command from my master and that was part of my job as a slave," she testified. She said Raniere complimented her for being brave. He explained, she said, "He was my grand master now and he was master of my master, Monica." In her opening statement to the jury on Tuesday, the prosecution had cast Raniere, 58, known as "Vanguard" and the spiritual leader of NXIVM, as a master manipulator who coerced women, and young girls, to have sex with him. At the end of the woman's direct testimony Wednesday, the government played a video of a meeting of Jness, a woman's group within NXIVM, that met in Apropos restaurant in Halfmoon. On the video, NXIVM president Nancy Salzman relayed Raniere's comments that the age of consent in some countries is as young as 12. Read the transcript of Salzman's remarks: Nancy Salzman Transcript by cseiler8597 on Scribd Raniere faces 15 to years to life if convicted of charges that include sex trafficking, forced labor and wire fraud. Racketeering charges against him also include underlying alleged acts of extortion, possession of child pornography and sexual exploitation of a child. The courtroom was packed for a second day Wednesday. Among the spectators were actress Catherine Oxenberg, whose daughter was in the master/slave group, former NXIVM official Barbara Bouchey and Toni Natalie, a former girlfriend of Raniere. The witness, who is still married, joined a secret group known as DOS, short for Dominus Obsequious Sororium, or "The Vow," because her master, she said, told her it would make her a better person. It required "collateral" damaging information about herself or intimate photos that she needed to hand over to ensure her obedience if she didn't comply with assignments in the group. It led her to write a letter to her parents that falsely claimed she was a prostitute and included naked photos. Duran had assigned her to seduce Raniere, which ultimately led to her visiting him at his residence. She said the experience left her feeling terrible. "It just felt like a different realm of darkness," she testified, crying. "All around that time I felt shame and still do. I just felt like everything was lies and secret and darkness. It was such a horrible time." She said she lost all respect for Raniere, but she was hardly done in the group. She said she was asked to recruit her own "slaves" and ended up asking them for collateral. When one woman in the club was not adhering to rules, she said, word got around that her "collateral" would have to be released. Raniere had said of that woman, who was not identified, "She may need to be the first one to fall." The witness said she left NXIVM and the group after Raniere was arrested in March 2018. Earlier, people in the group around her, including Duran, began leaving the Albany area following news accounts about the group, including its practices of branding women with Raniere's initials. She was later approached by the FBI, she said, and cooperated. The witness said Duran at one point gave her a necklace she called a "dog collar." A commitment ceremony was held. She said Duran also asked for a list of potential slaves. "Everything she asked of me was not optional in my mind," the woman said. "It was a command from my master." The woman said Raniere made it clear her allegiance was to be to him, even over her husband. She said she told Raniere: "My commitment is to (the husband)." Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. Raniere replied: "No you're ultimate commitment is to me. I'm your grand master." During cross-examination, Marc Agnifilo, one of Raniere's defense attorneys, asked the woman if she willingly approached Seagram's heiress Clare Bronfman, NXIVM's operations director, about taking a NXIVM course after they met in 2004 in Europe. Both were involved in horse-riding. The woman was then 18. The witness said she did approach Bronfman about taking a course because she thought the course would help get her over her fears. She ended up staying at Bronfman's farm and helped take care of horses there. Agnifilo noted in his questioning that the witness basically lived for free and that Bronfman had paid for her courses. The defense lawyer noted that the woman sent Raniere messages on a regular basis after the incident in his home. The messages, sent on the WhatsApp messaging application, all began with the words, "Good morning Grand Master." The lawyer reminded the witness she repeatedly asked when she could see Raniere -- and once told Raniere she dreamed about him. The messages had red heart emojis attached. "Someone in DOS said you had to put red hearts in everything?" Agnifilo asked the woman. She said she was trying to be the "best slave" she could be. "When I was a slave in DOS, I believed that's what I was supposed to be doing," she said. She said she often told Raniere what she thought he wanted to hear. She later said in cross-examination that Raniere once scolded her for not capitalizing the letter "g" in grand master in a message. "Thirteen years in NXIVM and you stayed?" Agnifilo pressed. She said yes. Earlier, the witness said a blog report by Frank Parlato, a former publicist for NXIVM who became an opponent of it, revealed that women in the group had been paddled. The woman said she was "completely freaked out" by the idea and learned it was true. She said "things sort of slowed down" after the report. Members of NXIVM, including Raniere, actress Allison Mack and Duran, all left the area. Duran asked her to contact her as "M." The witness said last contacted Raniere at Christmas in 2017. The government called its second witness former NXIVM member Mark Vicente late Wednesday. Vicente, 53, a filmmaker and native of South Africa, said he got involved in NXIVM after Salzman and Bouchey approached him following a documentary he made that they liked. Vicente walked jurors through the network of organizations underneath the umbrella of NXIVM, including Jness and Society of Protectors, an all-male version of Jness, he said. His testimony was expected to resume Thursday at 9:30 a.m. When it arrives later this year, Android Q will feature beefed-up privacy settings, new additions to the Digital Wellbeing feature introduced in last year's OS update, and an innovative feature that will add live closed-captioning to videos. Android Q's Dark Theme We already knew some of the features coming to Android Q, after Google released a developer beta of its upcoming mobile OS update back in March. But Google's annual I/O developer conference gives Google a public stage to talk about changes to Android, so we're getting a clearer picture of what new features and enhancements coming to our Android phones. MORE: Here Are the 23 Phones That Support the Android Q Beta Steph Cuthbertson, Google's director for Android, grouped the changes coming in Android Q to three categories innovation, security and privacy and digital well-being. Closed Captioning Easily, the most innovative change coming in Android Q is a closed-captioning feature that will add real-time captions to videos in apps and on the web. All of the captioning heavy-lifting will be done on your device in fact, Google demoed closed captioning on a device set to airplane mode. Android Q supports real-time closed captions. Cuthbertson said the feature is powered by a speech recognition breakthrough that Google made. It relies on a recurrent neural net that's 80MB instead of the 2GB setup that used to power real-time translation. That allows the feature to live on your phone, instead of tapping the cloud and taking more time. Smart Reply Another potential time-saver coming to Android Q is Smart Reply, which seems to draw heavily on the automated reply feature Google built into Gmail. In Android Q's implementation, Smart Reply will work with all Android messaging apps, letting you quickly send a reply with a tap. But Google is extending Android Q's Smart Reply to include actions as well. Say that when friends text you an address, you usually copy it and paste it into the Maps app on your phone. Smart Reply will recognize that behavior, and suggest it as an action you can take the next time you get texted an address, saving you some extra taps. Dark Theme As had long been rumored, Android Q is adding a Dark Theme that you'll be able to turn on via a quick settings tile. Dark Theme will also turn on automatically when you enable the battery-saving feature in Android Q, since one of the main benefits of switching to a dark mode is that your display consumes less power. Foldable Phones and 5G Cuthbertson talked up two big trends coming to smartphones this year foldable displays and 5G connectivity. Android is being updated to work seamlessly with foldable phones, supporting features like multitasking, where you can run multiple apps on a larger display, and screen continuity, where apps resume running as you open and close the phone's screen. We've already seen these features in action with Samsung's Galaxy Fold, at least before Samsung postponed the launch of that device due to issues with its screen. As for 5G, Cuthbertson didn't provide specifics on how Android Q will support this next-generation network standing that will deliver faster speeds and lower latency. But she did point out that the dozen 5G-ready phones expected this year will all be running Android. Security and privacy Android Q is promising 50 features that are focused on security and privacy, Cuthbertson said, starting with with a change to the mobile OS's settings. Privacy is now in the top level of the Settings screen, giving you quick access to location sharing, activity data and ad settings. Speaking of location sharing, look for finer-grain controls on how and when you share your location. You can designate whether an app can access your location at all times or just when you're using the app, a feature Apple added in iOS 11. Android Q will also notify you when an app you're not actively using is trying to access your location, giving you a chance to manage that setting. To quicken the pace of security updates a long-standing complaint about Android Android Q will enable direct over-the-air updates for security modules that will install without requiring you to reboot your phone. Think of it as similar to the way apps update in the background on the phone. Digital Wellbeing: Focus Mode and Parental Controls Digital Wellbeing was one of the centerpiece features added to Android in last year's Pie update, adding tools aimed at helping you manage screen time. Google considers it a success so far: Cuthbertson said that 90% of Digital Wellbeing users felt that app timers helped them stick to their goal, while the Wind Down feature caused a 27% drop in nighttime phone use. Focus Mode in Android Q will block apps when you need to concentrate. Android Q adds a Focus mode to Digital Wellbeing, in which you'll be able to designate certain apps as off limits when you need to buckle down and get work down. Enable Focus mode, and you'll be able to block out games, social networking apps, and anything else that might distract you. Focus mode is coming to Android 9 Pie devices, too, Cuthbertson said. Google also plans to build parental controls right into the device settings in Android Q. Among the tools at parents' disposal will be the ability to set daily screen time limits including limits on specific apps, view the amount of time kids spend on each app and set device bedtimes. A bonus time feature lets you allow kids to have extra time, presumably if they ask nicely. Getting the Android Q beta Last year marked a first for Google, as it made the Android Pie beta available to devices outside of Google's own phones. That's continuing with Android Q, which will run on 23 devices from a dozen phone makers, including LG, Sony, OnePlus, Asus, Essential and Huawei. To get the beta, go to Google's developer website and find the phone you wish to install it on. Click the link underneath that device and follow Google's instructions. A word of caution, though: this is still a beta, and the target audience is still developers. We'd recommend against installing Android Q on the phone you rely on for everyday use, at least until later on in the beta process. There's no official launch date for Android Q, but if Google follows its past behavior, you can expect the final version to be ready in late summer. Check out all the news Google announced at its developer conference on our Google I/O 2019 hub page. Image Credits: Google The Google Pixel 6 delivers the best Android experience for the money with superb cameras, smart photo editing features and new Google Assistant powers in Android 12, but the battery life could be better. The Google Pixel 6 delivers the best Android experience for the money with superb cameras, smart photo editing features and new Google Assistant powers in Android 12, but the battery life could be better. Google Pixel 6 specs Screen size: 6.4-inch OLED (2400 x 1080) Refresh rate: 90Hz CPU: Google Tensor with Titan M2 RAM: 8GB Storage: 128GB, 256GB Rear cameras: 50MP wide (f/1.85), 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2) Front camera: 8MP (f/2.0) Battery size: 4,614 mAh Size: 6.2 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches Weight: 7.3 ounces Colors: Stormy Black, Sorta Sage, Kinda Coral Whether or not the Google Pixel 6 is good and it definitely is you can't escape the splash that its launch has made. Smartphones not made by Apple and Samsung find themselves competing to capture any sort of attention. But there's no denying that the Pixel 6 is different from any Google phone that's come before it, from the distinctive new look to the Google-designed Tensor processor that now powers the company's flagship handsets. The affordable $599 price is yet another way the Pixel 6 stands out, though you'll pay more through certain carriers. So yes, the Pixel 6 and the Pixel 6 Pro command your attention. Whether the phones can keep your attention, though, is the point of this Google Pixel 6 review. Much of the burden falls on the Pixel 6's Tensor chip, which not only allows the phone's camera to recognize text, but also translate it on the fly if it's in a foreign language. The new chip powers Pixel features like voice-powered typing and robocall screening, not to mention a new spate of photo processing capabilities. But having tested the Pixel 6, there's more to this phone than just Tensor. Here's a closer look at the big new features in Google's latest flagship and how it measures up to the competition. Google Pixel 6 cheat sheet: Top features New Tensor chips powers machine learning features; overall performance is a step behind the Snapdragon 888 The main camera on the Pixel 6 has a 50MP sensor while the ultrawide angle camera is still 12MP with a 114-degree field of view Magic Eraser easily removes people and objects from the background of your photos Battery life is inconsistent, with below average times over 5G connections and decent times on LTE Android 12 introduces a new interface to the Pixel, with wallpapers and icons that reflect your phones design The Google Assistant offers several Tensor-powered features including calling assistants and voice-powered detection The 6.4-inch OLED display features a 90Hz adaptive refresh rate The Pixel 6 has now landed in stores, and its price depends on where you buy your phone. Get the phone unlocked or from either Google Fi, T-Mobile or Xfinity Mobile, and you'll pay $599 for the 128GB model. Upping the storage tacks another $100 onto the price. At Verizon and AT&T, you'll pay more for the Pixel 6 $699 at Verizon and $739 at AT&T. The reason for the price discrepancy comes down to 5G. Verizon and AT&T are selling Pixel 6 models that work with their fast mmWave-based 5G networks. The lower priced Pixel 6 models only work with sub-6GHz 5G. (Even the model available through Xfinity, which uses Verizon's network for its coverage.) Check out our hub on where to buy the Pixel 6 and what you can expect to pay. U.K. readers can also get the Pixel 6 on sale for Black Friday, with iD Mobile offering it for just 27 a month and 19 upfront. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) Another option for buying your Pixel 6 is via Google's new subscription-based Pixel Pass. You'll pay $45 per month, but that not only gets you a phone, it also lands you subscriptions to Google One storage as well as streaming from YouTube Premium, YouTube Music Premium and Google Play Pass. Preferred care for repairs and replacements comes with Pixel Pass, too. Here's our look at whether Pixel Pass is a good deal or not. The convoluted pricing strategy is a shame, because it detracts from what's a really attractive price for a phone with the kind of features we'll explore in depth in a moment. The Pixel 6 is a big improvement over last year's Pixel 5 , but at many places, the new phone costs less than its predecessor. Even at Verizon, you're paying the same price for the Pixel 6 that you would have for the Pixel 5, and getting a much better phone in return. If you're pondering how the new Pixel compares to Apple's latest similarly-priced phone then check out our Google Pixel 6 vs. iPhone 13 showdown. We're rounding up the best Pixel 6 deals to help you find the lowest price on Google's new phone. We can also help you find the best Pixel 6 case or get set up on your new phone with our Pixel 6 starter guide. Google Pixel 6 review: Design If Google were to hold a Pixel reunion inviting every previous model, the Pixel 6 would surely stand out from the crowd. It looks like no other Google flagship before it. The distinctive new look stems entirely from the horizontal camera bar that stretches across the back of the phone. That's quite a different approach from other camera arrays, which are generally confined to the upper left corner of a device. A happy side effect is that even though the horizontal bar sticks out from the Pixel 6's back, it prevents any wobbling when you set the phone down on its back. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) On the front of the Pixel 6, you get a cutout for the 8MP selfie cam in the center of the 6.4-inch display and a fingerprint sensor underneath the glass panel on the bottom. You'll have to really press and hold your finger against the sensor for it to work a simple touch won't do it and it's slower than other phones like the Galaxy S21 Ultra. This is certainly not a dealbreaker, but it's definitely a drawback of the Pixel 6 Pro and we hope Google can speed things up with an update. In fact, an update is reportedly rolling out to fix the Pixel 6 range's fingerprint problems now, so we'll see if that improves matters. If it doesn't, we may eventually see Face Unlock, last seen on the Pixel 4, on the Pixel 6 series. The Pixel 6 has an IP68 water resistance rating and Corning's Gorilla Glass Victus for better scratch resistance. I'd still make sure to track down a Pixel 6 case, and Google offers a $29 option that uses 30% recycled materials and is built to absorb shocks. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) At 6.2 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches, the Pixel 6 is bigger and thicker than the iPhone 13 and Samsung Galaxy S21 . But the Pixel 6 has a larger 6.4-inch display. However, the OnePlus 9 , which has a bigger screen than the Pixel 6, boasts a smaller form factor. At 7.3 ounces, the Pixel 6 is pretty hefty, too; the OnePlus 9 weighs in at 6.77 ounces. Google Pixel 6 review: Display Think of the Pixel 6 as sporting the Goldilocks of phone displays at 6.4 inches, it's not too big nor too small, but likely just right for most users. The 2400 x 1080p resolution is very sharp, and the minimal bezels mean that apps will fill up the available screen space. If you want a phone whose display maxes out at a refresh rate of 120Hz, you'll need to pony up for the Pixel 6 Pro, but Google hasn't left owners of the less expensive option high and dry. The Pixel 6 offers an adaptive 90Hz refresh rate, scaling up when your on-screen activity would benefit from smoother scrolling and gameplay and dropping back down to 60Hz at other times to preserve battery. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) Colors are fairly consistent on the Pixel 6's display when compared to similarly priced phones that use AMOLED panels. With its display set to Natural, the Pixel 6 shows off 100.9% of the sRGB color spectrum, which is slightly less than the iPhone 13 (110.2%), Galaxy S21 (109.2%) and the OnePlus 9 (104.1%). Based on Delta-E scores, the Pixel 6 with its 0.28 score is slightly less accurate than the iPhone 13 (0.26) and OnePlus 9 (0.27) in terms of color reproduction. Watching Cruella stream on Disney Plus with the brightness cranked all the way up, I thought colors looked a little muted on the Pixel 6 screen, though the brighter tones were certainly bright enough. Emma Stone's transformation into Cruella was highlighted by a bright red dress that stood out amid a more subdued sea of black and white clothing. Still, the Pixel 6 certainly isn't hurting for brightness. With the Adaptive Display feature enabled, we measured the Pixel 6's screen at 843 nits of brightness. That's brighter than the most comparable phones from Apple, Samsung and OnePlus. Google Pixel 6 review: Cameras While the Google Pixel 6 Pro adds a fancy telephoto lens to its rear camera array, the Pixel 6 sticks with the traditional wide angle/ultrawide angle setup. But don't weep for the Pixel 6 that main wide angle lens is getting a boost to 50MP, a big leap from the 12.2MP sensors Google has used on past flagships. In addition, the cameras on the Pixel 6 come equipped with Google's usual array of tricks powered by computation photography. This year's batch of tools include the ability to easily erase people and objects cluttering up the background of your photos, turn static shots into action photos with artistic blurs, software smarts that remove the blur from faces and improvements to how the cameras capture skin tone, particularly for people of color. I put the Pixel 6's cameras up against the iPhone 13's, because Apple's latest phone has the same kind of camera array a main lens and an ultrawide and it also ranks as one of the best camera phones available. You can see why in this shot of a statue down by the marina near my house. The iPhone 13 really nails the colors in this scene, from the pink suspenders on the statue to the red head of the carved vulture; the blue-and-yellow houseboat in the background really pops, too. The Pixel 6's shot is all right, but colors feel more muted. Perhaps it was the rainy, overcast day, but the Pixel 6 opted for accuracy in its colors, and the result is a less vibrant shot. Indoors, it's the same comparison. The Pixel 6 has gone cooler with its photo of this taco plate, while the iPhone 13 ramps up the color, as you can see by the pickled carrot slice and lime wedge in the foreground. It's really striking how the two phones handled that apple in the upper right corner of the picture in the iPhone's rendition, it's sharp and bright green, while the Pixel renders it dull and a little bit blurry. Perhaps the light streaming in from the background tripped the Pixel 6 up, but the iPhone shot is clearly better. Back at the marina, the Pixel 6's approach to color finally pays off as the phone keeps the rainclouds over the Oakland skyline looking gray and foreboding, instead of giving them the blueish hue seen in the iPhone's shot. Things are a little sharper in the iPhone 13 photo, as you can read the Dulcinea name of the boat on the right side of the shot, but that Pixel 6 competes well here. The Pixel 6 may lack a telephoto lens, but its Super Res Zoom feature is able to assist any digital zooms up to 7x to keep the shot clear and focused. I only cranked things up to 4x, and was pleased by how the camera captured the Oakland skyline from across the San Leandro channel. Buildings remain in focus, particularly the Tribune Tower I zoomed in on, and there's minimal noise within the shot. The iPhone 13 didn't fare nearly so well with a 4x zoom, as the shot darkened considerably and the buildings tended to blend together. Both phones did well at night, with their respective night modes able to cleanly capture some Halloween decorations perched in an orange tree. The Pixel 6's Night Sight has the more realistic shot, with a cooler color cast that retains the shadows on the skull. The iPhone 13 brightens the orange tree leaves in a pleasing way, and it manages to bring out the white of the skull. But if you look closely, the skull loses some focus in the iPhone 13's Night mode. I think the Pixel 6 does the better job here. The portrait shot of my daughter is a tale of two color temperatures the Pixel 6 skews cold while the iPhone 13 favors a warm cast. I think the iPhone 13 made the better decision, not just because it's a shot that looks more autumnal, but also because my daughter's striped shirt looks white where it should be and doesn't have the blue tint that the Pixel 6 has added. Neither phone offers a particularly convincing blur in this shot, perhaps because my daughter is standing too far back into the persimmon tree, confounding both phones' computational photography. Pictures taken with the front camera are more evenly matched, though again, the Pixel 6 really likes cool colors. It's a good effort even if it washes out some of the wrinkles in my face, but I think the iPhone 13 shot is more realistic, particularly the way it captures the different colors of my hair, including the graying patches up top. Old age comes for us all, friends. Google Pixel 6 review: Photo editing features The Pixel 6 camera experience is about more than lenses, though, as Google puts its computational photography prowess to work with new photo editing skills that give you the chance to improve and enhance your photos. The features added to the Pixel 6's photo toolbox are easy to use, when they even require your intervention at all. Magic Eraser is probably going to be the most widely embraced feature, as most of us have probably taken what seems like a perfect shot, only to find it cluttered up by people and objects in the background. Magic Eraser, available in the editing tools in Photo will automatically select people and objects to remove, which you can do with a tap. Remember that Pixel 6 selfie I took up above? It has a person in the background over my left shoulder. But Magic Eraser can identify that person, along with anything else cluttering up the shot and offer to remove them automatically. You can also tap other areas to remove objects or in the case of that No Time to Die movie poster over my right shoulder, tell Magic Eraser to leave Daniel Craig be. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) Motion mode is a new feature on the Pixel 6's camera that takes flat, static images and livens them up with blurs to denote movement. It's particularly useful for livening up action shots and can even improve otherwise dull photos of cars passing by a movie theater. Shot with the Motion mode enabled, the Pixel 6 added background blurs and other effects while keeping the SUV in focus. The result turns a leisurely downtown drive into an exciting chase scene. You can select Action Pan which focuses on the moving object, like my car photo up above. There's also long exposure, in which the moving objects get the blur treatment. There are other software improvements in the Pixel 6, too, including a feature that unblurs the face of anyone who moved just as you were taking the shot and the ability to process HDRnet in 4K videos for more vibrant colors. Speaking of color, Google has been working with image experts to improve how skin tones appear in photos shot by its cameras, and the result should be more accurate representation of people of color in your photos. Google Pixel 6 review: Performance Much of the focus around the Pixel 6 release has been on Tensor, the Google-built system-on-chip that powers many of the machine learning capabilities that highlight the new phones. It's Tensor, for example, that's helping power some of those photo-enhancing capabilities we just discussed. But silicon also drives performance, and one of the big questions surrounding Tensor has been how it will compare to the Snapdragon 888 chipset that powers the leading Android devices. The answer is that Tensor's in the same ballpark as the Snapdragon 888, even if it's sitting a few sections back. On Geekbench 5, the Pixel 6 posted single and multicore scores of 1,029 and 2,696, respectively. Both numbers were behind what we've seen from leading Snapdragon 888 devices like the Galaxy S21 (1,048 and 3,302) and the OnePlus 9 (1,126 and 3,618). With the iPhone 13 and its A15 Bionic chip outpacing Snapdragon 888 phones on this test, the Tensor proves no match either. When it comes to graphics, the Tensor's performance is more in line with other top Android flagships. In 3DMark's Wild Life Unlimited test, the Pixel 6, OnePlus 9 and and Galaxy S21 all turned in frames around 34 frames per second. The iPhon 13, meanwhile, produced a 55.9 FPS score. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) The Pixel 6 can take comfort in how it performed in a real-world test where we use Adobe Premiere Rush to transcode 4K video into 1080p. While the Galaxy S21 and the OnePlus 9 both took a little more than 1 minute to complete the task, the Pixel 6 finished the job in 49 seconds. It's not the 26-second result the iPhone 13 produced, but it's one of the better times we've seen from an Android phone. To see how the Pixel 6 compares to the competition, check out our Google Pixel 6 benchmark overview, complete with charts and analysis. The bottom line is that Tensor is better than you think. Playing a graphically demanding game like PUBG Mobile on the Pixel 6, graphics looked sharp and response times were good, even if my aim wasn't. Selected other games however offer Pixel 6-specific optimizations via the Game Dashboard. This lets you choose whether you want the best graphics available, or want to preserve your battery life instead. I was also impressed by the Pixel's speakers located at the top and bottom of the phone. Oftentimes, phones that use that setup run the risk of having your hands cover the speakers when holding the phone in landscape mode, but the sound of gunfire came through loud and clear on the Pixel 6. Google Pixel 6 review: 5G The Tensor chipset includes a 5G modem reportedly one of Samsung's Exynos 5123 modems . That's a step or two behind the Qualcomm Snapdragon X60 modem found in current flagships such as the iPhone 13 and Galaxy S21. As a result, you'd expect 5G speeds to be a little slower on the Pixel 6. My testing showed signs of that. With my review unit loaded up with a Verizon SIM card, I recorded average download speeds of 35.3 Mbps on Verizon's nationwide 5G. (That's not the Ultra Wideband network Verizon's got in more than 80 cities around the US where speeds can approach 1 Gbps.) I popped that same SIM card into an iPhone 13 and recorded an average speed of 35.8 Mbps. No, that's not a big gap, but the iPhone speeds were consistently in that range, whereas the Pixel's 5G performance was all over the map. In the end, it's probably not a dealbreaker for most users, but throw in the fact that Pixel models have different models based on the type of 5G network they can connect with, and it creates some unnecessary confusion about the kind of performance you can expect. Google Pixel 6 review: Battery and charging You want confusing performance, though, check out our battery test results we got from the Pixel 6 and its 4,614 mAh battery. Our test involves setting a phone to surf the web continuously over a cellular connection ideally 5G and then timing how long it takes for the fully-charged device to run out of power. For consistency, we set each phone's screen to 150 nits of brightness, which requires the Pixel 6 to be set at a very demanding 77%. That's a long way of saying that the Pixel's numbers when testing over 5G are not very impressive. With its 90Hz refresh rate enabled, the Pixel 6 lasted for 8 hours and 13 minutes on T-Mobile's 5G network That's nearly two hours shy of the average for smartphones. However, I ran that same test on my house using a Verizon SIM, where I can only pick up an LTE signal. Without the power demands of 5G, the Pixel 6 lasted longer an average of 10 hours and 52 minutes across multiple tests. Now that's more like it. To see how the Pixel 6 fares versus other flagship phones, check out our Pixel 6 battery life results overview, which includes runtimes for the iPhone 13 series and Galaxy S21. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) Our guess is that our battery test burdens the older 5G modem in the Pixel 6, as its subpar performance was in line with 5G phones we saw in early 2020. In real world usage over a mix of 5G, LTE and Wi-Fi, the Pixel 6's battery held up pretty well not enough to challenge devices with the best phone battery life , but enough so that you won't need to seek out a mid-day recharge. Using a fully charged Pixel 6, I spent an afternoon taking pictures and running some other tests before leaving the handset unplugged overnight. The next morning, I still had a 71% charge remaining. To get more life out of the Google phone, check out our guide on how to disable 5G on Pixel 6. When it is time to recharge the Pixel 6, Google's device 21W wired charging, only a minor jump from the Pixel 5's 18W speed. Originally it was thought that the Pixel 6 supported up to 30W speeds afforded by the new 30W charging brick, which is sold separately. But after a dive into the phone found this wasn't the case, Google publicly admitted that the Pixel 6 is limited to just 21W speeds. Not a great look, honestly. We had the 30W charger in our lab, and after 30 minutes of charging a drained Pixel 6, the phone's battery readout was back to 29%. The Galaxy S21 gets to 55% in that time, and the OnePlus 9, with its insane 65W charger, comes close to a full recharge. Google Pixel 6 review: Software and special features The Pixel 6 introduces the world to Android 12 , Google's latest software update for Android phones. This is no mere tweak, as Android 12 introduces us to Google's new Material You interface that's baked right into the Pixel 6. That means the wallpapers adapt to the color of your Pixel the available wallpapers all adjusted to complement my Kinda Coral review unit. You also get themed icons for the built-in Google apps, and even elements like the keyboard take on the shading of your phone. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) In some cases, it's a bit much. I don't know if I'll grow to appreciate the coral-themed keys on the Pixel 6's on-screen keyboard over time or if I'll continue to think of a bottle of Pepto-Bismol when it's time to tap out an email. But it at least shows some consistency as Google takes a page out of Apple's playbook and more closely integrates its software with its hardware. Google Assistant is smarter than ever, and some of the new features really have the potential to come in handy. You can now send text messages by dictating them through the assistant, and it's shockingly accurate, as the assistant can even insert punctuation without making it sound like you're sending an old-timey telegram. It's smart enough to know by the sound of your voice where to insert periods and question marks, and it can even recognize commands like Clear and Send. You do have to repeat "Hey Google, type" for each message, but a handy visual cue the microphone icon lights up with a rainbow band lets you know when the assistant is listening for dictation. Plus, Android 12 offers many ways to launch Google Assistant. Google is also taking its first tentative steps away from beginning every assistant request with "Hey Google." On the Pixel 6, you can stop an alarm simply by saying "stop" or "snooze." Similarly, you can say "answer" or "decline" when there's an incoming call. It's not an extensive list at this point, but I imagine Google is working on other voice commands where no "Hey Google" will be required. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) Past Pixel releases have introduced features to the phone app like Hold for Me, where you can task the assistant with handling interminable waits on hold and notifying you when a live person is finally on the line. That feature's back with the Pixel 6, and it brought some friends. Type in a phone number into the Pixel 6's dialer, and you'll see a chart with wait time patterns, giving you a sense of when might be a better time to call. You can also adjust the Phone app's settings to provide real-time transcriptions of automated phone messages, including menu options the numbered buttons even appear at the bottom of the screen for easy tapping. These features only work with toll-free business numbers at this time. We have a full look at the new Wait Times and Direct My Call features Google added to the Pixel 6. The excellent Recorder app now can record and transcribe German and Japanese. And speaking of transcription capabilities, a new Live Translate feature can recognize different languages in messages, media and pictures and convert them to English for you. The most valuable implementation is an interpreter feature that lets the Google Assistant listen to and translate spoken text it will handle German and Japanese on the Pixel 6 itself, and you can access 48 other languages if you have an online connection. The interpreter feature probably works best when you're traveling overseas and talking to native language speakers I tried the feature with my wife who speaks a little German, and while it generally worked, I think her accent and pronunciation baffled the assistant at times. That's a lot of new features to digest, and Google doesn't always make it easy to find them, forcing you to dig into settings to enable them. But I'm glad Google continues to put its machine learning features to use in practical ways. Apple has made some hay by emphasizing the privacy features of its phones in recent years, and it's clear Google is tired of letting Cupertino claim all the glory here. The Pixel 6, aided by its Tensor chipset and dedicated Titan M2 secure enclave aim to keep your data safe and sound. (Image credit: Tom's Guide) My colleague Paul Wagenseil goes into greater detail on the Pixel 6's security and privacy features , but the highlights include a new Privacy dashboard that gives you a history of which apps are using the Pixel 6's location, camera and microphone; you can also add a camera/microphone toggle to the quick settings to easily turn access on and off. A security hub gives you a one-stop destination to manage your passwords, app permissions and Google account. Because of the switch to the Tensor chip, Google says it can now commit to five years of security updates for the Pixel 6. That's not the same thing as Android software updates, where it sounds like you're still going to get three, but it's a step toward providing the kind of lengthy support that Apple gives its iPhones, meaning you'll be able to hold onto this device longer. While my experience with the Pixel 6 has been relatively free of problems, that hasn't been the case for other people who've bought Google's new phone. We're tracking the most prominent Pixel 6 problems, including whether a fix is in the works, with issues ranging from the display flickering when powered off to the phone randomly calling contacts at odd hours. The fingerprint sensor has run into the biggest problems, largely because of slow response times, as we noted above. Some users are reporting that the fingerprint sensor stops working after the battery runs down a problem we did not experience. Some of my UK-based colleagues, however, have experienced problems with network connections on the Pixel 6 a European-centric problem that Google says it's actively investigating. The good news is that most of the reported problems can be addressed with software fixes. One exception is a weird issue in which some users have reported a second punch-hole on the phone's display. In that case, you'll need to replace your Pixel. Also positive is Google's policy of introducing more features to its phones after launch, separate from Android OS updates. For example, since launch it's gained a new Adaptive Sound setting, and heart and breathing rate tracking via the phone's camera in the Google Fit app. Google Pixel 6 review: Verdict The Pixel 6 is the best phone Google's ever made. But that doesn't mean it's necessarily ready to supplant flagships from Apple and Samsung among the best phones you can buy. The cameras on the Pixel 6 are as good as ever, and the new editing tools bring some welcome features. That said, I think the iPhone 13 takes better pictures for the most part, particularly in low lighting, where past Pixels have previously excelled. Tensor seems like a welcome addition to the Pixel lineup as well, though the true value of its machine learning expertise is only going to fully reveal itself over time. I wish battery performance was more consistent on the Pixel 6 and that figuring out 5G connectivity didn't require a wall chart. Since Google can now commit to security updates for longer periods of time, it would do well to mirror Apple's stance on software updates, too. Between the new capabilities introduced by both Tensor and Android 12, though, the Pixel 6 is definitely a contender to become your next phone. Android fans who want the best out of Google's software would do well to consider an upgrade to the latest Pixel. AMD is pushing itself deeper into Lenovos ThinkPad line, the laptop maker announced today. Starting this May, 2nd Generation AMD Ryzen Pro mobile CPUs will be available in ThinkPads professional-focused T-series line, starting at $939, as well as the light and portable X-series. Lenovo announced three upcoming AMD-based ThinkPads today, the 14-inch ThinkPad T495, starting at $939 and debuting late this month, the 14-inch ThinkPad T495s, arriving in early June starting at $1,089, and the 13-inch, lightweight (under three pounds) ThinkPad X395, also arriving in early June with a starting price of $1,089. Image 1 of 5 Image 2 of 5 Image 3 of 5 Image 4 of 5 Image 5 of 5 ThinkPad T495 The laptops will boast up to 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen 7 Pro mobile processors, which include integrated AMD Vega graphics. AMD announced its new Ryzen Pro laptop chips, based on its Zen+ architecture, in April. They go up to the AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 3700U, which has four cores, eight threads and a 4-GHz turbo clock speed. The T-series, 14-inch laptops will have FHD resolution (1920 x 1080) displays that Lenovo claimed can hit a max brightness of 400 nits (we'll have to test hat ourselves). The ThinkPad T495 and T495s screens are also equipped with AMD FreeSync, which should help prevent screen tearing during intense gaming or fast-paced videos. Image 1 of 3 Image 2 of 3 Image 3 of 3 ThinkPad T495s Those concerned about privacy, particularly business users, will appreciate the T495s and X395s PrivacyGuard, which makes it harder for people sitting next to you to peek at your screen. Lenovo also claimed it extended battery life by up to four more hours with these laptops. The last X-series ThinkPad we reviewed, the ThinkPad X1 Extreme, lasted 6 hours and 7 minutes on our battery test, (which browses the web and streams video and OpenGL tests over Wi-Fi at 150 nits brightness) with a power-hungry, 4K, HDR display. So you can expect these new ThinkPads to significantly surpass that battery life. Image 1 of 3 Image 2 of 3 Image 3 of 3 ThinkPad X395 AMDs 2nd Gen Ryzen Pro chips are meant to help everyday productivity with updated multi-core boost algorithms and reduced cache and memory latency. Well see if they have it takes to satisfy the high expectations of ThinkPad users. Photo Credit: Tom's Hardware and Lenovo Kansas City Runaround Today Two arrested in chase, crash that ended at Troost and Lindwood KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- Police have arrested at least two people after a chase in Kansas City on Tuesday afternoon. The chase started at Truman and Woodland around 2:10 p.m. and then ended at Linwood and Troost around 2:20 p.m. Buddies Drama Redux Ex-boyfriend of man killed in house explosion has criminal history Before Buddies gay bar owner Melvin "Lee" Mecker died in a house explosion last month, he told police he was repeatedly attacked by an ex-boyfriend. Court records show the ex-boyfriend was convicted of crimes against Mecker but avoided jail time. Rising Westport Crime Testimony Police: Worker hurt by concrete saw as suspect stole truck KANSAS CITY, Mo. - One person was arrested after allegedly stealing a work truck in Westport last week, injuring a construction worker in the process, according to court records. Luke Bacon, 26, was charged with felony stealing, second-degree assault and tampering with a motor vehicle in connection with the April 30 incident. Po-Po Help Tow Truck Tragedy Metro woman gets an assist from KC police after company illegally tows her RV KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Things got a little heated Monday after a metro tow company FOX4 has been warning you about for years struck once again. "The Kansas City, Missouri Police Department knows about it. Northmoor Police knows about it. They all know about it, and they are after you, and they are going to get all of you." Rural Missouri Misdeeds Reconsidered Clay County considers amending mushroom law SMITHVILLE, Mo. - Doug Lowe says his son, a mushroom hunter, had an unexpected encounter with a park ranger at Smithville Lake last week. Lowe said a Clay County park ranger stopped his son to ask if he had any mushrooms. When he told the ranger he did not have any yet, the ranger told him, '"Well, if you do you're going to have to pour it out or you could be arrested,'" Doug Lowe said. Sleaze Scumit Postscript 1 injured, 1 in custody after standoff in Lee's Summit LEE'S SUMMIT, MO (KCTV) - A suspect has surrendered after a standoff that lasted hours Tuesday morning. Officers were dispatched to a local hospital on the report of a gunshot wound. After talking with the victim, officers were able to determine that the shooting took place inside a home in the 100 block of northwest Chipman. Kansas City Search For Clues Nine years later, family still praying for justice in KC man's unsolved murder KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Monday marked a difficult day for the family of Michael Rhodes. "I don't even want to think about it. That day was the worst day of my life," said Fonteshia Rhodes as she burst into tears just thinking about May 6, 2010. Show-Me Tazer Double Take Parents Of Tased Teen Seek New Trial, Claiming Verdict Was 'Miscarriage Of Justice' The parents of a Maryville, Missouri, teenager with autism have asked for a new trial after a jury declined to find the police officers who tased him liable for damages. In a motion filed Friday, Ernest and Ella Kramer say the jury's verdict was against the weight of the evidence, "resulting in a miscarriage of justice." Where We Stand Right Now Kansas City ranks as one of most dangerous cities in country, report says A new report from Safe Wise ranks Kansas City as the fifth most dangerous big city in the country.According to its methodology, Safe Wise said Kansas City is the country's fifth most dangerous big city behind St. Louis, Detroit, Baltimore and Memphis. Milwaukee, Cleveland, Albuquerque, Indianapolis and Oakland round out the top 10. is coming toand that makes us nearly as sad as the bevy of local crime news impacting the metro. Take a look:And this is thefor right now . . . A man who was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison and ordered to pay $11 million in restitution for a wide-ranging mortgage fraud scheme is back in trouble with local authorities. Brent Barber, 54, has been charged in Jackson County with one count of forgery, a class D Missouri felony. Celebrate Great KCMO Sellout!!! Kansas City Parks & Recreation Department approves plan to dispose of land KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- Board members said all four properties were brought to the parks and recreation board by people interested in developing them. Tuesday, the board passed resolutions to remove portions of those park properties. At Hodge Park, the North Kansas City School District is proposing a development on 36 acres near Shoal Creek Parkway. Kansas City Turned Waldo Into Toilet Family in Waldo fights water, sewage problems in home KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- The people who live along a stretch in Waldo have simply had enough. The number of times one family has been flooded is hard to imagine. "Since 2010, we have flooded 15 times," said Jill Thomas, who is a resident of Waldo. Westside Overflow Update Flood control project for Turkey Creek on track KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A plan to alleviate flooding along Southwest Boulevard in both Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas City, Kansas, continues to make progress. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is installing underground pipes to take storm runoff under a field and train tracks and deposit it directly in Turkey Creek. Urban Core Street Danger Neighbors claim construction has created hazards along Prospect KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Some neighbors along Prospect Avenue claim construction that's part of a $54-million bus rapid transit line has created some hazards that pose a danger to both drivers and pedestrians. Neighbors are concerned about a giant hole near 43rd Street and Prospect Avenue. Kansas City Good Life In Pix The 2019 Derby Party at the Kansas City Museum Northeast News The 2019 Derby Party at the Kansas City Museum was Saturday, May 4. Check out our photos of ... Construction Season Dampened Rainy weather impacting construction around KC metro KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Missouri Department of Transportation officials say recent soggy weather is having an impact on construction projects across the Kansas City metro area. Brian Burger, MoDOT district construction and materials engineer, said crews can do minor work on rainy days, such as pavement and sidewalk repairs, but construction needs to be pushed back until conditions dry out. Local Startup Life Lesson Fund Me, KC: 'Scarlet Knight' returns to inner city streets with moral dilemma Startland News is continuing its segment to highlight area entrepreneurs' efforts to accelerate their businesses. This is an opportunity for entrepreneurs - like Juaquan Allen with his Scarlet Knight campaign - to share their crowdfunding stories to gain a little help from their supporters. My name is Juaquan "Jay" Allen. Kansas City Awaits More Storms Heavy rain expected late Tuesday night into early Wednesday Thunderstorms will move into the Kansas City area late Tuesday night and linger into the overnight hours. There will be heavy rain with these storms. There's an... Sharing doubly important hard news on the topic of pop culture and fashion from around the world:Closer to home here are some of the most important news links that matter for tonight . . .And this is thefor right now . . . Kansas City mayoral candidate Jolie Justus is proposing the city create its own department of transportation to help maintain city streets.Justus announced her plan during the first televised mayoral debate Monday."That's why I'm going to create, as your next mayor, a new department of transportation to make sure we're getting it right," she said.Justus said her department of transportation would not be another city office; it would coordinate the city services, such as fixing existing streets or building new ones."We don't have that right now. But the Miura remains the unsung four-wheeled hero of that movie and, now, that very P400, chassis #3586, is shiny and its leather sparkling. Having said that, everything is else is as it should be: the driving position is still unpleasant, and the bulky center console with those six Jaeger dials looks notoriously out of place. Did they forget about it and just added the whole thing at once before sending the first finished car to the Geneva Auto Show in 1966? Does it matter? Well, not really. You tend to not question cult classics. Can a car roar its way into the folklore of motion pictures after appearing on screen for a grand total of four minutes? If that car is Lamborghinis first mid-engined car, the Miura, then the answer is yes. Granted, it helps that the said movie isnt some C-rated afterthought of a movie that barely made its way on home video but a masterpiece starring Michael Caine and a trifecta of Minis that were so iconic they got a reboot by the time the BMW-engineered Mini Cooper was launched in the early noughties. Many generations of car guys watched in disbelief as the orange Miura that shows up to drop jaws as it drives down one of Italys many strips of winding road in the opening minutes of the classic 1969 movie The Italian Job never exits that tunnel in one piece. The good news is that the car we see traversing the Grand Saint Bernard Pass survived the filming and heres whats even better: the car that was considered to be the one used during filming was certified by Lamborghini as being genuine and then was restored by the Italian companys Polo Storico department that specializes in nut-and-bolt restorations. The orange beauty that was for sale less than four years ago has been restored by Lamborghinis Polo Storico to look better than new Its fair to assume this 1968 Lamborghini Miura is worth its weight in gold IMDB.com describes it as a "comic caper movie about a plan to steal a gold shipment from the streets of Turin by creating a traffic jam." Doesnt that sound daft? Well, if that was the description of a book written on its back cover then it would fit nicely in line to confirm the age-old proverb: "never judge a book by its cover." That's because the original Italian Job is a classic movie - nevermind the 2003 reboot - and it's one of those movies that you'll not be able to match by attempting a remake. And some of the flavour of the movie which is so quintessentially 60s comes from those opening scenes with a Miura that ends up in pieces by the time the scenes over, and the movie begins in earnest. To the dismay of car fans everywhere, the car you see rolling down that hillside is a genuine Miura, but its one that was destined to meet its maker by then anyway. Happily, though, the running and driving example that was used is around but, for years, the authenticity of the car thought to be the one used during filming was doubted. That is until now when Lamborghini officially ended the debate by acknowledging that chassis #3586 is the car used in the movie. What did Lamborghini do next? Proceed and restore it from bumper to bumper, obviously. But the story of the car is much more interesting than that because the car was thought to be lost for decades. One popped up for sale in the U.K. in 2015, and the sellers said its the real deal, but Lamborghini couldnt verify it. So lets remind ourselves how the story unfolded to better understand why this P400 is a bit like the Italian equivalent of the surviving Ford Mustang GT 390 Fastback used in the 1968 movie Bullitt starring Steve McQueen & Co. First, I have to talk a bit about the Miura. You all know the story of its birth, you all know how Ferruccio wanted to further stun Ferrari and come out guns blazing with something truly special. You could say the mid-engine layout wasnt all that unique since Ferrari had a not-really-GT with the engine behind the seats in the Le Mans-winning 250 LM and thats before we get deeper into who did what first. Whats undeniable is that you wont find another car with the engine mounted transversely ahead of the rear axle. The layout (with the crankcase and the transmission) was displayed in all its exposed glory on a rolling chassis that was brought to the 1965 Turin Auto Show. The finished car as penned in one go by then-27-year-old Marcello Gandini was shown the following year in Geneva. The first version of the Miura, known as the P400 (due to the position of the engine and its 4.0-liter capacity, if your round it up) was motivated by just 275 horsepower, cost $20,000 in 1966 (or almost $160,000 in todays money) and some 275 were sold until 1969 when it got replaced. By Lamborghinis standards, this was deemed to be a resounding success especially at a time when a Jaguar E-Type cost somewhere in the region of $5,800. On top of that, Lamborghini received tons of publicity after stars like Frank Sinatra purchased one. Of those 275 P400 chassis, only three were adorned with aluminum bodies painted in Arancio Miura. Of the three, just one was completed with white leather seats and headrests, and that was the 1968 example driven in the film by the Italian actor Rossano Brazzi (playing the character of Roger Beckerman) and stunt driver Enzo Moruzzi who also drove the car from SantAagata all the way to the filming location. The car was to the film directed by John Harris who was tasked with filming the scene in the north-west of Italy near the town of Aosta, close to the Swiss border. The filming took but a few days in the heat of a late June sun, merely days after the car was road-tested for the first time on June 18th. For the shooting of the scenes, the odometer was disconnected as Lamborghini planned to sell the car after filming which it did, the car finding its way on the lot of Italian dealer Zani by July 2nd, 1969. According to an Octane story that tried to determine back in 2015 if the car for sale in the U.K. through Iain Tyrells Cheshire Classic Cars really is that Miura, "exactly went on during the few days spent filming the opening scenes of The Italian Job has never been clear." What is clear is that the car that was sent tumbling down and into a small stream of water below was a Miura that ended up at the factory after a wreck in the Middle East. That car - chassis number unknown - was painted Arancio Miura in a hurry then shipped to the location of filming where the one-take scene was filmed. Whats interesting is that, after the scene was shot, "special effects man Ken Morris was tasked with retrieving it from the bottom of the river gorge, but recalled later: I went to rescue it, as you always have to get these vehicles back but I couldnt find it! It had disappeared by the next day. I went down there many times as, after all, it was only a small river. So somebody must have seen us throw this Lamborghini down, and retrieved it during the night." After the filming was over and the car ended up at Zani, a dealership owned by the Ferretti family (you'll see why this is relevant in a second), it was basically lost. Its generally believed that it changed hands up to five times until 2005 when it ended up in the collection of Norberto Ferretti, the founder, and owner of the Ferretti Group. Then, in 2013, French classic car broker Eric Broutin mediated the sale of chassis #3586 which left its homeland and ended up in Paris whereupon its new owner exclaimed: "Stunning car it has the same color combination as the one in The Italian Job movie. The French collectors unfiltered reaction is what got Boutin thinking. "We started to watch the opening scenes of the movie, again and again, image by image, zooming in on every possible detail. This is how we first realized that what had started as a kind of joke might actually have some basis in fact. By comparing the stitching and hole patterns in the headrest and dashboard, we realized that #3586 and The Italian Job Miura had the very same headrest and dashboard, with the same faults in the same places." How is that relevant? Well, the leather upholstery was sawn by hand as youd expect, so no two cars had perfectly identical stitching and holes. But, at the time, nobody could certify the cars authenticity and many Italian automotive historians were skeptical. Two years later, the car was for sale again in Cheshire, and Iain Tyrell advertised it as the car from the movie. Although over 24 months had rolled by since Boutin first made the link between chassis #3586 and The Italian Job Miura, Lamborghini was still unable to link the two officially since it was in the middle of a reorganization, and the company's records and files couldn't be all checked by Enrico Maffeo, the Head of Lamborghini's archive. Lamborghini finally went through the exhaustive procedure last year when The Kaiser Collection of Vaduz, in Liechtenstein, reached out to Polo Storico to check up on its history once and for all. Testimonies from surviving members of the film crew, test driver Enzo Moruzzi, as well as all of the existing data from back in the day were corroborated to attest that, indeed, this is the Miura used in the film. You can say its bang on time since the movie is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. I bet youre now wondering how much it would cost should it pop up on the auction block now that we know its the real deal? Well, for what its worth, the car isnt 100% original: the original engine cracked and was replaced with the last brand-new SV unit produced by Lamborghini in the early 70s, and the paint job was redone in the 21st century but Id reckon it would fetch much more than the $3.38 million Joe Macari in the U.K. is asking for a grey 1972 Miura SV. So you and I will probably never lay eyes on this car which means theres only one thing left to do: get comfortable on the sofa, roll the film, and relax listening to Matt Monros On Days Like These accompanied by the Miuras own symphony, one that would take you in its prime all the way to 170 mph - not on the Saint Bernard Pass, though. Further reading Read our full review on the 1971 Lamborghini Miura SVJ Lamborghini Polo Storico restores the iconic Miura SVR Miura Has Fun On Its 50th Birthday on Winding Italian Roads Read our full review on the 1966 - 1969 Lamborghini Miura. Read our full review on the 1971 - 1972 Lamborghini Miura SV. Source: Car & Driver Update 5/29/2019: Ferrari has just debuted the all-new SF90 Stradale, a V-8, hybrid supercar that is already stealing a lot of thunder from the Ferrari LaFerrari. Check out our special gallery below to get your first look while we update this review! Now, we have our first look at the first Ferrari Hybrid V-6 as it was doing some cold-weather testing. "We will develop a totally new V6 family based on a very, very particular, innovative architecture with plenty of innovations regarding technologies and components." We spied the Ferrari V-6 hybrid in prototype form in Sweden and Germany. Our spy photographers heard V-6 sounds while some videos, filmed in Maranello before that, apparently show the Ferrari V-6 hybrid running on electric power only. Even though this may be the case for the prototype, I doubt that the Ferrari V-6 mid-engine supercar will have an only-electric drive mode. However, Ferrari marketing head, Enrico Galleria reported some time ago that the Ferrari hybrid GT cars will probably have a Plug-In Hybrid technology. The Purosangue SUV as well! Announced at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the new Ferrari V-6 hybrid is ready for introduction this summer. Expected in a mid-engine form, the Ferrari with a hybridized V-6 propulsion system will probably slot below the F8 Tributo and ride on a modular platform that will underpin at least one more Ferrari supercar in the future. Maybe the one with the V-8 hybrid system. The Mid-Engine Ferrari V-6 Hybrid Is A Whole New Car That Slots Below The F8 Tributo But Could Be Faster 2020 Ferrari SF90 Gallery Note: Were busy updating this review, so weve placed a small gallery below for you to check out. Until we update the review, you can check out our featured article to learn all about the new SF90 Stradale! Spy Shots May 24, 2019 Ferrari Hybrid Supercar Caught Coming Back from Testing It actually hasnt been that long since we last say Ferraris new Hybrid prototype, but from the looks of it, Ferrari is trying to hide something. This time around, the body has been covered by a thick tarp and what appears to be a lot of padding. It still appears to be a standard 488 GTB body underneath, but there could be some drastic changes in place now that Ferrari has decided to cover everything up. One thing that we can spot without a doubt is the different headlight design. They look to be of the same shape, but you can clearly see a different LED design. It also looks like the rear air intakes might be quite a bit larger than on the last prototype, but our eyes could just be playing tricks on us. If you look at the rear end of this prototype, its pretty clear that Ferrari is really trying to hide something. It appears as if theres going to be a more pronounced, natural spoiler that actually covers the taillights and it appears as if the rear diffuser will feature larger openings as well. Again, this could be a padding trick to throw us off. For now, at least we can rest easy knowing that the Ferrari Hybrid is coming and it will, probably, be 488-based. Exterior Active aerodynamics Lower compared to other Ferraris It could mark a significant design shift within Ferrari Spy photos did not reveal too much about the proposed Ferrari V-6 supercar. After all, the only thing we can see is the standard 488 GTB body covered with a whole lot of camouflage. Some of the yellow stickers on the prototype have some meaning. They designate the hybrid nature of the car. Why? Well, if the accident happens, rescuers will know that they are dealing with a hybrid. Interestingly enough, the new Ferrari mid-engine hybrid will become a sort of halo supercar for the brand. It will have a lot of power and engine technology partially sourced from Ferrari Formula 1 cars. Coincidentally, the only V-6 hybrid system Ferrari makes is the one for its Formula 1 SF70H car. This actually tells us a few things about the design of the new car. See, the new V-6 engine and a hybrid propulsion system will sit a bit lower compared to the V-8 in the 488 GTB. Furthermore, Ferrari officials revealed a thing or two about the basic design of the supercar at the investors' presentation in 2018. Back then, we have found out that the new Ferrari mid-engine supercar will have active aerodynamics. Remember the S-duct system on the latest F8 Tributo? The upcoming Ferrari V-6 Hybrid will have something similar. The last hybrid Ferrari built was the LaFerrari itself, but the new one will not be as exclusive. It will be quicker and faster, I reckon. After all, it will dance with the likes of the new Lambo and Aston Martin mid-engine supercars. Heck, maybe even Porsche will go this way and finally give us the mid-engine 960 with a hybrid system. For all those reasons, I feel that Ferrari has to step up its game in the styling department. The mid-engine Aston Martin Vanquish will come to the scene, and that one is bound to be a handsome one. On the other hand, we have a proposed Lamborghini LB48H Hybrid Supercar. Potentially based on top of the Terzo Millennio concept car. The LB48H could look simply outrageous. Definitely a poster material for teens. The Ferrari F8 Tributo is not that. But the new Ferrari mid-engine V-6 Hybrid supercar could be. Interior Keeps the best talents of the modern high-end Ferraris Lower sitting position than before Unique arrangement and design of buttons and dials It will keep the central rev counter The interior of the new Ferrari mid-engine hybrid supercar will remain a mystery up to the point of the cars unveiling. What we can do is take a glance into the interior of the latest Ferrari F8 Tributo. Heavily influenced by the 488 and the 458, the F8 Tributo interior does not seem to be as unique or as special as one could hope. Ferrari took many pieces from the 812 Superfast cabin and placed them into the F8 Tributo. Just take a look at the dials, air-con controls, vents, instrument cluster, central stalk with modes, and even the radio control. All of them are the same as in the 812 Superfast. Considering that much the same pieces reside inside the entry-level Portofino and other Ferrari products, I hope that the interior layout of the all-new Ferrari V-6 hybrid takes a swift turn. Sure, you can expect the display in front of the passenger, round vents, and centrally positioned rev counter behind the wheel. Everything else will be different. It is still unclear in what way, but I can only say that the driver will probably sit lower. The ultimate goal is to achieve an exceptionally low center of gravity, and that is one way of doing it. Also, expect naked carbon surfaces inside. Ferrari has to do something to offset the weight of the hybrid drivetrain. Speaking of which... Drivetrain Twin-Turbo V-6 Inspired By Formula 1 Ferrari engine The hybrid system develops more power than the V-8 in the F8 Tributo Possibly the most efficient Ferrari of all time Rides on a new modular platform Structure made from Aluminum, Carbon Fiber and a mix of other materials heavier drivetrain than before A possible (but not probable) EV mode The new mid-engine Ferrari V-6 hybrid should come on top of the future hybrid food chain within Maranello. At least for a little while - until the V-8 hybrid appears. The V-6 engine could have a higher specific output compared to any ICE in the current lineup. Plus, an electric motor provides needed assistance. Rumors suggest that the new platform enables the integration of a second electric motor on the front axle as well. However, the new mid-engine Ferrari will be a RWD only supercar. Ferrari technical chief Michael Leiters said: If you want to maximize the benefits of electrified powertrain, you need to do it with downsizing otherwise it doesnt make sense. A naturally aspirated V12 engine is not a downsized engine, and for me, it doesnt make sense as a hybrid. We will fight for the V12, of course. We will do everything we can to keep it as it is core to our brand. But a real hybridization of the V12? I dont see it. The LaFerrari was hybridization for performance. In the future, were being forced to look at emissions [the F8 is the first Ferrari to go through the WLTP cycle] and if you want to really utilize the CO2 benefit, you have to downsize. The propulsion system will sit in entirely new surroundings. That means - no carbon tubs and no exotic designs - only a frame structure composed of different materials. Some of them will be carbon reinforced polymers for sure. Is this a bit too generic? It may be, but the thing is that Ferrari wants to build at least two cars on this platform. It is a modular design that can support different powertrain options (V-6 Hybrid, V-8 Hybrid, one electric motor, two electric motors), and it gives designers the freedom to stretch a wheelbase if need be. The decision for making the structure using different materials is a sound one. Utilizing aluminum, magnesium, and carbon fiber, Ferrari engineers managed to lower the weight of the structure, somewhat offsetting the added weight of the hybrid system. An important fact considering that Ferrari V-6 Hybrid will not have a KERS-like system like the LaFerrari, but an actual hybrid system that is a bit heavier. It will help with emissions, consumption, and all that boring but necessary stuff. See, Ferraris business plan includes the growth that will increase the yearly production to more than 10,000 units. In this case, the company falls under strict emission rules as any other car manufacturer. Heck, I feel that is the first reason for the development of the hybrid system. Mike Flewitt from McLaren actually supports my thought. When asked about the upcoming hybrids for the McLaren supercars, Flewitt said: "Weve got to be honest: weve been driven to this (hybrids) by emission regulations." He also added that McLaren isnt able to offset the weight of the hybrid system by reducing the weight of other components. I do believe that the Ferrari is in the same sauce. I hope that Italians will surprise us somehow. Back to issue at hand. The new V-6 could be the one based around the 2.9-liter, six-cylinder from the Giulia Quadrifoglio. On the other hand, Ferrari could go with a whole different design. Whatever the result, the engine will mate with a new double clutch transmission and sit lower than ever before. So, will Ferrari call the new car the Dino? No, it will not. The company is clear about that. Luckily, we can crunch some numbers here: ICE: 2.9-liter, V-6, twin-turbo Horsepower 610 horsepower Torque 443 pound-feet Electric motor Horsepower 113 horsepower The estimated combined power output of 723 horsepower and 800 pound-feet of torque It is more than you get in the F8 Tributo, but you have to be aware that the F8 Tributo is the last step of the story that started with the 458 Italia. The new mid-engine Ferrari V-8 Hybrid will be its natural replacement. The V-6 Hybrid, on the other hand, is an all-new car. 2020 Ferrari F8 Tributo drivetrain specifications ENGINE Type 90-degree V8 turbo Overall displacement 3902 cc Max. power output* 710 HP @ 8,000 RPM Max. torque 568 LB-FT @ 3,250 RPM Dry weight 1330 kg 0-100 km/h 2.9 s 0-200 km/h 7.8 s Top speed 340 km/h (211 mph) Prices I believe that the Ferrari V6-Hybrid will take place in the hierarchy between so-called entry-level supercars. It will be one of the best and the quickest there, teaching the Huaracan, 600LT, and the R8 how it should be done. In that case, the mid-engine Ferrari V-6 Hybrid price could go over $250,000 and touch $300,000+ mark with the addition of some optional equipment. Competition Aston Martin Vanquish Vision Concept demonstrated the Astons ability to think in proper mid-engine terms. Although still a concept, mid-engine Aston Martin Vanquish will probably appear in 2022 with a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine. Brits did not say much about the possible hybridization of it, but the thing is that even the V-6 can be utterly powerful and a worthy opponent to anything from Italy. If you are not so sure, please remember that the six-cylinder in the Ford GT has 650 horsepower. The upcoming Vanquish Vision seems to be a perfect competitor to the forthcoming Ferrari V-6 Hybrid supercar. Check out more details on the Aston Martin Vanquish Vision Concept Porsche did not confirm or denied the development of the new mid-engine supercar that will compete with the likes of the McLaren 720S, and the F8 Tributo. However, some rumors (that circle around since 2011) suggest that the Porsche mid-engine supercar could take the name 960. If it ever comes, I would not be surprised if the Porsche 960 comes in a hybrid guise with 700+ horsepower propulsion. Check out more details on the Porsche 960 Ive included the Huracan Evo only because it seems plausible that its successor competes with the 723 horsepower Ferrari supercar. Nevertheless, the Huracan Evo and especially its insane Huracan Performance brother seem more than capable of taking on anything from Maranello. After all, the Huracan Perofmante is a car that lapped the Ring in 6 minutes and 52 seconds. Unofficially, the 488 GTB did it in 7 minutes and 22 seconds. Read our full review on the 2019 Lamborghini Huracan Evo Conclusion We are on the verge of a major Ferrari revolution. The Ferrari F8 Tributo is the last word of the Ferrari mid-engine supercars powered solely by ICE. Its successor will have a new V-8 hybrid system, but the mid-engine Ferrari V-6 Hybrid is a whole new car. Probably one called the 486. Love it Efficient and Fast First of the whole new Ferrari Hybrid supercar breed Brings Wow Factor Leave it It will not be super light Questionable exclusivity due to shared architecture It seems to cross with the Ferrari F8 Tributo Further Reading Read our full review on the 2020 Ferrari F8 Tributo. Read our full review on the 2016 Ferrari 488 GTB. Read our full review on the 2016 Ferrari 488 Spider. Read our full review on the 2018 Ferrari 488 Pista. Read our full review on the 2019 Ferrari 488 Pista Spider. Update History Update 5/24/2019: Ferraris upcoming hybrid supercar was just spotted on its way back from a testing session, and we managed to snag some new shots of the electrified prancing horse. Check out our spy shots section below to see the new shots and learn more about it. Even though Ram is the newest member in the truck segment (if you dont count the years "Ram" was a model under the Dodge umbrella), it cannot be taken for granted. Given the kind of products it has in its portfolio, you will be surprised to know that the company is just nine years old. Ram is essentially a by-product of Dodge and is a fully-owned subsidiary of the FCA. Dont mistake it to be a rookie or a newb by any means. The name might be new, but the company has been building trucks since the 1970s under the name Fargo trucks which was sold outside the United States. The 2019 Ram model sees a few changes. These trucks became an overnight sensation when Ram announced a 1,000 pound-foot of torque figure for the 3500 series. The Ram 2500 doesnt boast that, but it still has a lot going in its favor to be deemed as a potent threat to the Blue Oval and the Bowtie. Overview The truck segment is arguably the most competitive one in the auto industry right now. Its quite amusing how these big, bulky machines exude so much class today. A decade back, even an air conditioner or power windows were considered as unique selling propositions. Ford has sprinted to the forefront and maintains a healthy lead over its competitors. It has steamrolled the Chevrolets, the GMCs, and the Rams alike. However, all these companies have pulled up their socks and are giving cut throat competition to the market-dominator. As a result of this civil war, folks in the U.S. have plenty of options to choose from. Exterior Chrome face is too gaudy LED Headlights with adaptive Front Lighting System Wheres the MultiFunction Tailgate? Overall fit and finish could have been better Plain-Jane profile and rear when compared to the front I have said this on multiple occasions before, and I'll repeat it again - The Ram 2500 does not have a face on the truck, it has a truck on the face. A glance of the gigantic face in the rear view mirror is enough for you to step aside and make way for this truck. I guess the designers were asked to work only with chrome to design the front end. Every trim in the 2500 lineup comes with a different grille design. The front fascia of the Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn consists of six horizontal chrome strips that are surrounded by thick chrome strips extending all the way to the headlamp clusters. The LED headlights are small and in line with the two slats that connect to the RAM logo. These headlights feature an Adaptive Front Lighting System. The bumper is made up of - you guessed it - chrome as well. The bumper features two fog lights on the extreme ends and two tow hooks in the middle. For a truck with such a gaudy face, the profile of the Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn seems rather sedate. It is as plain as it can get, and it does not look very proportionate either. The doors are flat as a pancake and do not feature any cuts or creases. Some elements in the wing mirrors and the lower window sill are made up of chrome again. The truck has a tall stance, and thanks to the flared wheel arches, even the 20-inch wheels look puny on it. The side of the bonnet receives a prominent 2500 badge. For a truck this premium, some things look out of place. The side indicator light is placed on the fender instead of being on the wing mirrors, the alloy design feels too plain, etc. The rear of the Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn is not very exciting either. The bumper, just like the one in the front, is a chrome unit. The taillights are vertically stacked and do their job; nothing fancy here. The simple tailgate wears the Ram badge, which adds certain character to an otherwise simple derriere. Its quite surprising that Ram decided to skip the Multifunction Tailgate in the 2500 Series. For a truck that costs over $50,000, Ram should have offered it in the 2500 range, at least on the Laramie Longhorn and the Limited trims. Perhaps, the next model year will offer it. The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn can be had in different body forms and configurations: 4X2 Crew Cab Short Wheelbase 149 inches 4X2 Crew Cab Long Wheelbase 169 inches 4X4 Crew Cab Short Wheelbase 149 inches 4X2 Crew Cab Long Wheelbase 169 inches 4X4 Mega Cab 160.5 inches Interior Leather Used Generously All Around Plenty Of Storage Spaces Cabin Feels A Bit Too Cluttered Initially UConnect Touchscreen System RamBox Cargo Management System For all the critiques I mentioned in the previous section, Ram makes up for it here. The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn boasts one of the best cabins in the segment today. The chocolate-and-coffee theme looks absolutely fantastic. Ram has tastefully and evenly used leather and wood trim all around. The automaker has decorated elements on the door panels, dashboard, and armrests with hand-stitched leather. Authentic wood is used in the plenty as well. On the onset, the cabin feels too cluttered. The dash is very busy, but resembles a cockpit. The multifunction steering wheel is perfectly sized, but is not meaty enough and the thumb contours are conspicuous by their absence. The instrument cluster is extensively detailed and is wrapped in leather. The center console, as Ram describes it, consists of "real open-pore barnwood and brushed aluminum accents, complemented with solid wood tandem doors". The passenger side comes with a decently-sized glove box, although it could have been placed slightly higher for better usability. Ram has employed a combination of touch screen, buttons, and knobs for convenience. The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn features a 12-inch UConnect touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. At the bottom of the center console, Ram has used flip switches to give the interior a retro vibe. The armrest and the dash panels are embossed with Laramie Longhorn Edition branding. This will always remind you that you are seated in a special trim. The tan seats are made of pure leather and are heated as well. Ram has paid a lot of attention to the storage space inside the cabin. The gear lever has been moved next to the steering wheel, thus freeing up space in the center console. Ram says there are 12 different storage spaces around the cabin, including one that can house a 15-inch laptop safely, away from prying eyes. This is perhaps the largest storage space that we have seen in a truck's center console. The automaker has offered the Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn with five USB ports, including USB C-type ports, and a three-position sliding cup holder tray that can be stowed under the center armrest. To counter the GMCs much-hyped 15 camera setup, Ram has introduced a new 360-degree surround-view camera with trailer reverse guidance view that provides a single display-screen view of both sides of a trailer to assist you in maneuvering towing setups. But unfortunately, that does not make its way in here. Another interesting feature is the RamBox Cargo Management System. Its more than just a toolbox. It is secure, durable, lit (quite literally), and is drainable storage system incorporated into the side rails of the truck bed. Neat! As for the safety features, the Ram claims to have installed more than 100 safety and security features in the 2500 Laramie Longhorn, some of which are: Blindspot Monitoring System Forward Collision Warning Adaptive Cruise Control Automatic Emergency Braking 2019 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn interior dimensions Headroom front/rear 40.9/39.8 Legroom front/rear 40.9/40.2 Shoulder Room front/rear 65.9/65.6 Hip Room front/rear 62.9/62.7 Interior volume front/rear 63.9/60.7 Drivetrain 6.4-liter, V-8 mill 410 Horsepower 429 Pound-feet of Torque 6.7-liter, six-cylinder engine 370 Horsepower 850 Pound-feet of Torque Towing Capacity of up to 19,780 Pounds Payload Rating of 4,050 Pounds When you talk about 2019 Ram trucks, the first thing that comes to mind is the mammoth 1,000 pound-feet of torque figure in the Ram HD. Even though the engine capable of those figures isnt offered in the 2500 Series, lets talk about it a little. The automaker breached the four-digit torque figure and became an overnight sensation. This was previously unheard of in a truck, and it benefits greatly as you have more power available at your disposal at lower speeds. It helps even more when youre towing heavy cargo and need a lot of power to move from a standstill and also to conquer unknown surfaces and inclines. The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn comes with a 6.4-liter, V-8 HEMI engine as standard. This mill churns out 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. Ram has mated it to an eight-speed automatic transmission. If you are not looking to haul a lot of luggage on a daily basis, this engine should suffice nicely. Ram has also offered a detuned version of the mill found under the hood of the Ram HD. It is a 6.7-liter, six-cylinder engine that Ram has developed along with Cummins. It develops 370 ponies and 850 pound-feet of twist. The FCA-owned marque has mated this capable engine to a six-speed, Aisin-sourced automatic gearbox. This new-gen mill weighs 60 pounds lighter than its predecessor and uses new cast-iron cylinder head and cylinder block along with lighter and stronger pistons. That is a good spread of engines for you to choose from depending on your requirements. 2019 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn drivetrain specifications Engine 6.4-Liter HEMI V8 6.7-LITER CUMMINS TURBO DIESEL I-6 Type And Description 90-Degree V-Type, Liquid-Cooled, with Valve Timing (VVT) Inline, liquid-cooled, turbocharged, intercooled Displacement 392 cu. in. (6,417 cu. cm) 408 cu. in. (6,690 cu. cm) Bore X Stroke 4.09 X 3.72 (103.9 X 94.6) 4.21 X 4.88 (107 X 124) Valve System Pushrod-Operated Overhead Valves, 16 Valves, Eight De-Activating and Eight Hydraulic Lifters, all with Roller Followers Pushrod-operated overhead valves, 24 valves, hydraulic lifters Fuel Injection Sequential, Multiport, Electronic, Returnless Electronic high-pressure common rail Construction Deep-Skirt Cast-Iron Block with Cross-Bolted Main Bearing Caps, 356 Aluminum Cylinder Heads with Hemispherical Combustion Chambers Compacted graphite iron (CGI) block cast-iron head Compression Ratio 10.0:1 19.0:1 Power 410 HP (306 Kw) @ 5,600 RPM 370 hp (276 Kw) @ 2,800 RPM Torque 429 lb.-ft. (582 NM) at 4,000 RPM 850 lb.-ft. (1,084 NM) @ 1,700 RPM Maximum Engine Speed 5,800 RPM Limited 3,200 RPM Fuel Requirement Unleaded Regular, 87 Octane (R+M)/2 Ultra-low sulfur diesel Oil Capacity 7.0 Quarts (6.6 Liters) 12.0 quarts (11.3 liters) with filter Coolant Capacity 16.6 Quarts (15.75 Liters) 23.8 quarts (22.50 liters) Transmission ZF 8HP75 AUTOMATIC EIGHT-SPEED six-speed automatic Lets come to the most important point of a truck - its towing and payload capacities. The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn comes with a maximum towing capacity of 19,780 pounds. This is not the best figure when compared to its rivals, but it is not the worst either. The Ford F-250 leads the way with a towing capacity of 21,000 pounds, whereas the GMC Sierra HD takes the bottom place with a capacity to tow a meager 15,400 pounds. In terms of payload capacity, the Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn comes with a rating of 4,050 pounds. The Ford F-250 and the GMC Sierra HD come with a rating of 7,640 pounds and 3,276 pounds respectively. Ram also provides a 5-year/100,000 miles Roadside Assistance, and a 5-year/100,000 miles limited warranty on the diesel powertrain on its trucks. Chevrolet also offers the exact same warranty and roadside assistance on its HD range of trucks. Ford, on the other hand, provides a 5-year/60,000 miles Roadside Assistance and powertrain warranty on the super duty trucks. The 6.7-liter engine, however, comes with a 5-year/100,000 mile warranty. Now you know which Ford engine to pick at the time of your next purchase! Pricing The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn is sold with a starting price of $56,700. If you compare it to the competition, it feels slightly overpriced. But the extra moolah gets you a luxurious cabin with smart storage spaces and nifty features. With the add-ons and optional accessories, the price could go up to $70,000. Competition This GMC Sierra has a turnaround story similar to that of the Ram trucks. Both these brands have upped the ante to move up the ranks in all the departments. Hence, it is imperative to pit the Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn against the GMC Sierra 2500HD SLT. On the outside, the GMC Sierra 2500HD does not carry a garish face as the Ram 2500. The styling cues are comparatively subtle. On the inside, it is not as well-loaded as the Ford or the Ram, but all necessary creature comforts like touchscreen infotainment system, heated and power adjustable seats, etc. are present. GMC has missed equipping this trim with the 15-camera setup with trailering system that makes backing up easy with a trailer hitched on your ride. Even the MultiPro Tailgate misses out in this trim. Both of these can be found in the Denali trim. But we cant blame GMC for it as it has only three trims in its lineup as compared to the six trims each in Ford and Rams portfolio. GMC offers the Sierra 2500HD with a 6.0-liter, V-8 engine that churns out 360 horses and 380 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. The GMC Sierra HD can tow up to 15,400 pounds and is offered with a maximum payload of 3,276 pounds. The Sierra 2500HD SLT comes with a starting price of $51,000. However, you could even look at the Denali trim which starts at $61,300 and offers all the bells and whistles you can ask for in a truck. Read our full review on the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD SLT It is impossible to talk about trucks and not mention the Blue Ovals F-Series. The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn goes up against the Ford F-250 Super Duty King Ranch. This truck comes with looks that will please and offend none. The cabin is simple, yet utilitarian. It comes with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, leather upholstery, heated and cooled seats, and power-adjustable pedals, to name a few. Under the hood, the Ford F-250 features a 6.2 liter, V-8 engine as standard. It develops 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of twist. The bigger 6.7-liter, turbodiesel V-8 mill produces 450 ponies and 935 pound-feet of twist. This is the engine that has enough grunt to beat the Rams 6.7-liter engine. Both the engines come mated with a six-speed automatic transmission system, either in two-wheel-drive system, or four-wheel-drive configuration. This truck also tops the chart for the best towing and payload capacities, rated at 21,000 pounds for the former and 7,640 pounds for the latter. Ford also announced that a new 7.3-liter, V-8 engine will make its debut in the 2020 model. This will be available from the F-250 Super Duty trims. No wonder Ford trucks are the best sellers. However, Ford trucks are not known to be cheap. Customize it with their list of desirable products and the price could soar well above $70,000. Read our full review on the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty King Ranch Final Thoughts The Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn, as I mentioned before, makes sense if you need a truck that has the best of both the worlds - strong mechanicals and premium interior. It may not be the best-looking of the lot, but we are talking about trucks here that serve a different purpose altogether. So, the aesthetics should not be a deal-breaker. The mix of leather and wood, and the overall tan theme is appealing. The highlight for me is the presence of flip switches that add a retro feel to an otherwise modern cabin. In terms of engine specs and towing capabilities, the Ram 2500 makes a strong case for itself, but it is trumped by the Ford in both the departments. The pricing seems to slightly on the higher side, but hey, you are getting 100-percent genuine hide and wood inside the cabin. All the Ram trucks are currently built in Saltillo, Mexico for now, but the next gen production is expected to move to Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Warren, Michigan. Love it The best cabin in the segment 850 pound-feet of torque can help you move effortlessly even with a trailer on your ass Smart storage systems can gobble anything and everything Leave it The styling cues will not be to everyones liking Why is the Multifunction tailgate missing here when the 1500 gets it? Jack of all trades, master of none Further Reading Read our full review on the 2019 Ram 2500 Limited. Read our full review on the 2019 Ram 2500 Power Wagon. Read our full review on the 2019 Ram 1500. Read our full review on the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic. Read our full review on the 2019 Ram 1500 Rebel 12. On 3 May 2019, in Eswatini, Chief negotiators Neven Mimica and Robert Dussey met with African Ministers to discuss the African pillar of the future partnership between the EU and 79 countries in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific (ACP). As with other regional consultations held in the Pacific and the Caribbean regions, the objective was to discuss specific needs and priorities of the region, while exploring how to best address them in the future ACP-EU agreement. It is expected that Fridays discussion will fuel and enrich the tailor-made Africa pillar to be created within the future ACP-EU agreement, also known as the post-Cotonou agreement. In Mbabane, Eswatini, the EUs Chief Negotiator, Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica, said: Todays meeting has given us a strong basis and political direction on how to reinforce EU-Africa relations under our future agreement. We believe that further driving economic growth to improve peoples lives and reduce poverty should be at the heart of our work. Other priorities include promoting democratic principles, while protecting our citizens and our environment. Professor Robert Dussey, the ACPs Chief Negotiator and Chair of the Ministerial Central Negotiating Group, who is also the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Africa integration of Togo, said: The just completed consultation for the Africa region adds to the outcome of consultations for the Caribbean and the Pacific, which have helped us understand better the priorities of the ACP regions. This is critically important in the context of current negotiations for a new ACP-EU Partnership Agreement. We remain focused on working with our EU partners to address the priorities of the three regions. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Eswatini, Ms Thuli Dladla added: The Kingdom of Eswatini is honoured and proud as lead negotiator for the Africa Protocol and host to the just-concluded consultations to have facilitated the expression of Africas strategic priorities which has set the stage for real engagement to reach a mutually beneficial agreement with the European Union. Background The Cotonou Agreement currently governing EU-ACP relations is due to expire in 2020. Negotiations on a new ACP-EU Partnership were launched in New York on 28 September 2018 in the margins of the United Nations General Assembly. The two first series of talks mainly focused on the common foundation at EU-ACP level. This contains the values and principles that bring the EU and ACP countries together. It also indicates the strategic priority areas that the two sides intend to prospectively work on together. The envisaged structure of the future agreement includes a common foundation and specific, action-oriented regional pillars, to focus on each regions needs. To that end, the first round of consultations on the regional pillars is now concluded. Through the future partnership, EU and ACP countries will seek closer political cooperation on the world stage. Together, they represent more than half of all UN member countries and unite over 1.5 billion people. For more information pdf ACP Negotiating Mandate for a Post-Cotonou Partnership Agreement with the EU (1.00 MB) pdf Negotiating Directives for a Partnership Agreement between the EU and the ACP Group of States (454 KB) Nations longest-standing regional destination marketing organization in the US celebrates 100 years (TRAVPR.COM) PENN YAN, NY A crowd of nearly 300 came together on Saturday, May 4 at the Ramada Geneva Lakefront to celebrate 100 years of the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance. Attendees spanned local business owners, area not-for-profits, county tourism promotion agencies, supporters and legislators. Founded in 1919, the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance is considered the oldest regional destination marketing organization in the country. The not-for-profit exists to enhance and promote visitor businesses for the Finger Lakes Region of New York State. Attendees were treated to the debut video celebrating the regions past, present and future. It can be viewed here: https://www.fingerlakes.org/finger-lakes-tourism-alliance-100th-anniversary. Speakers representing the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance (FLTA) included Cynthia Kimble, President and Joe Gober, Chairperson, Board of Directors. For a century, the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance has been committed to growing tourism in the region, said Cynthia Kimble, President of the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance. At the time the FLTA was founded, tourism was a burgeoning industry and, now, we have a $3 billion industry supporting over 58,000 jobs in the region, with the numbers growing year over year. As the oldest regional destination marketing organization in the country, we are so pleased to celebrate this historic milestone. Legislators in attendance included Alison Hunt, District Director, Congressman Tom Reeds office, Sara Lattin from Senator Thomas OMaras office, Senator Pamela Helming, New York State Senate and Assemblyman Brian Manktelow, New York State Assembly. The U.S. House of Representatives, the New York State Senate and the New York State Assembly each presented Kimble and Gober with proclamations commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance. Net proceeds from the gala and silent auction will be used to establish the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance Scholarship Fund benefiting those going into hospitality and tourism. As this industry continues to grow, so will employment possibilities for those with an educational background in hospitality and tourism. Paul Curcillo, Principal, CK Cellars, recognized Gene Pierce, Owner of Glenora Wine Cellars and Knapp Winery, for his years of service, dedication and support of tourism marketing efforts in the Finger Lakes Region. The 2019 Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance Scholarship will be given in honor of Gene Pierce. Gober presented the 100 Years of Partnership Award to the Canandaigua Chamber of Commerce. The chamber was one of the founding entities to join the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance (then known as the Finger Lakes Association) in 1919 and is still a partner today. Ethan Fogg, the Executive Director of the Chamber, accepted the award. The excitement over the possibility of a National Heritage designation was palpable throughout the evening. Earlier this year, the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management and Recreation Act was signed into federal law. Included are conditions that authorize the allocation of funds authorizing the National Park Service to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of designating the Finger Lakes Region as a National Heritage Corridor, Kimble said. It is through the support of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Tom Reed that this initiative was spearheaded alongside the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance. To have this happen during our 100th anniversary year makes this even more poignant. The presenting sponsor of the 100th Anniversary Gala was CK Cellars, the parent company of Torrey Ridge Winery, Earle Estates Meadery, WortHog Cidery, CuKi Fine Wines and Rooster Hill Vineyards. Learn more about the CK Cellars portfolio at ckcellars.com. The Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance is a premier destination marketing organization with 700+ partners in the region, said Curcillo. The CK Cellars team and I are thrilled to be an integral part of this historic celebration. Former FLTA directors in attendance included Mike Rusinko and Spike Herzig. Prior directors recognized from the podium, but unable to attend, were Conrad Tunney and Alexa Gifford. Tina Culhane and Melissa Savin, co-owners of The Cake Place in Avon, created a three-tiered 100th Anniversary Gala cake with edible photos of the region. Historical societies from each of the 14 counties in the region provided the original photos. The cake was sponsored by Fourth Idea, a creative agency. Guests were also treated to ice cream from Cayuga Creamery. Attendees received swag bags sponsored by Cayuga Health System and Cornings Gaffer District. The time capsule from the 75th Anniversary was on display throughout the evening. Attendees were invited to donate items for the 100th Anniversary Time Capsule. FLTA will be accepting time capsule donations at the FLTA office in Penn Yan through December 31. The evenings emcee, Josh Nichols, is a veteran meteorologist with nearly 20 years of experience tracking the regions ever-changing weather. He can be found on WROC-TV News 8 Rochester. Guests were entertained with live music from Night Train. For information on donating to the newly established Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance Scholarship Fund, please contact Cynthia Kimble, President, by phone at 315-536-7488 or by email at CindyK@fingerlakes.org. For information on becoming a FLTA partner, please contact Jessica Robideau, Director of Sales and Marketing, by phone at 315-536-7488 or by email at JessicaR@fingerlakes.org. About the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance Founded in 1919, the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance exists to enhance and promote visitor businesses for a 9,000-square-mile region including the 14 counties of the Finger Lakes Region of New York State. The FLTAs mission is to lead economic growth and development through exemplary promotion of the Finger Lakes Region as a world-class tourism destination. ### Micro-Cruising is excited to announce the launch of their new online booking tool for agents (TRAVPR.COM) NSW - May 8th, 2019 - Micro-Cruising is excited to announce the launch of their new online booking tool for agents to be able to click-to-book small ship cruising products. The worldwide product will be loaded in a staged approach with their most popular destination being Croatia launched initially. Managing Director, Nicola Caygill states There is no search/filter function like it that Ive seen in the industry. It is a deceptively simple website that has been a long time coming. At launch we have over 30 itineraries and hundreds of departures for 2019 and 2020 Weve tried to put lots of cruise details online in order to be a resource for agents to find options for their clients quickly and easily The OBT allows agents to access the most up to date availability, rates and discounts in a number of currencies including AUD and NZD. Agents dont need to log in to book they can use the home page filter to find their clients trip and gross rates are shown on the front end ready for agents to book. The site offers only deluxe level and above ships with applicable solo rates, triple rates, quad rates and children rates on multiple cabin types. Once an order is placed Micro-Cruising will send an invoice within 1 business day with optional hold confirmation. Agents are encouraged to take a closer look at the site. Contact For any questions please contact Nicola Caygill at 0459203333 or email info@micro-cruising.com.au END OF PRESS RELEASE About Micro-Cruising: Heralding the Slow Cruise movement since 2013, small ships means that your arrival wont create ripples on the destination since small ships are able to navigate shallow waters, most can anchor easily at smaller ports, or even anchor at Sea with no infrastructure in sight. Dont transform the very place youve come to see. Take only photographs leave only footprints, get lost and be found. With over 700 worldwide vessels holding only 100 passengers or fewer Micro-Cruising offers: Sea Gypsies of the Mergui Archipelago Grace Kellys Honeymoon Yacht in the Galapagos 100 year old converted solid Teak Rice Barges in Thailand Agathas Christies Death on the Nile River boat Homely Tug Boats in Alaska A tall ship that was so beautiful that she was pardoned from WWII duties by Roosevelt One cabin Phinisis in Indonesia with 7 staff including a full time Masseuse Micro-Cruisings Managing Director is Nicola Caygill. Nicola has been involved in tourism since 1998. Form a pedigree of Business Development roles in Orion Expeditions and Quark Expeditions her academic experience has seen her achieve a MSc Tourism: Environment and Development - Oxford Brookes University, UK. For more information please contact: Micro-Cruising Pty Ltd Nicola Caygill, Managing Director info@micro-cruising.com.au or nicola@micro-cruising.com.au www.micro-cruising.com.au PO Box 15 Glenfield Sydney NSW 2167 Phone (02) 9703 0314 or 0459 203333 Opening Hours are Monday Friday AEST 9am 5pm www.linkedin.com/in/ncaygill www.linkedin.com/groups/MicroCruising-Travel-Agents-Network-4333054/about www.instagram.com/microcruising www.twitter.com/microcruising www.facebook.com/MicroCruising www.youtube.com/micro-cruising www.pinterest.com/microcruising ### editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 7 US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross today assured the Indian government that it will not face any embarrassment due to scandals if American companies are given a larger pie of its development contracts. Ross delivered a stark message to India laced with the hope that lower tariff barriers will make it an attractive destination for American companies. There is a real imbalance! And its an imbalance we must strive to counteract, he said at a US-sponsored conference of businessmen from both countries. But, currently, he complained that US businesses face significant Indian market access barriers. Indias average applied tariff rate of 13.8% remains the highest of any major world economy, Ross said. If US companies are allowed to operate freely in India, there will be no whiff of corruption because of strict US laws in this regard, he assured. The US Commerce Secretary said American corporates were extremely well positioned to meet the demand for high-quality goods and services with the regions infrastructure requiring investment of $1.7 trillion every year. And they (US corporates) are eager to be more engaged here and throughout the Indo-Pacific region, he said. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Tribune News Service Chandigarh, May 7 A Dhanas resident has been arrested for misbehaving with a traffic cop at Sector 24. The suspect, who was being challaned for driving on a cycle track, also tore the challan book on May 6. According to the police, the complainant, Head Constable Ajit Singh, posted in the traffic wing, Sector 29, reported that he was on duty at the Sector 24/25 light point when he saw a youth riding a motorcycle on a cycle track. He stopped the biker for the violation. However, the biker started misbehaving with him. When the cop tried to challan him, he tore the challan book. The suspects name is Sahil. However, he gave a wrong name to the police while they were issuing the challan, said a police official. The police were informed following which a PCR vehicle reached the spot. A case under Sections 332 (voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from his duty), 353 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from the discharge of his duty) and 419 (punishment for cheating by impersonation) of the IPC has been registered at the Sector 11 police station. The biker was arrested and sent to judicial custody. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Sandeep Rana Tribune News Service Chandigarh, May 7 I have done 515 films and not all were hit. But, today seeing you (crowd), it seems my film is a hit, said actor Anupam Kher, husband of BJP candidate Kirron Kher, while addressing a jan sabha at Sector 24 here this evening. Anupam was referring to a report published in the columns of Chandigarh Tribune under the title, No crowd, BJP cancels Anupams rally, today. A newspaper published a report with a picture showing there was no crowd. They published the truth. I think they are here today and should also publish a picture showing the crowd here so that I feel they publish the truth. If they dont, then I will have a doubt about it, he told the gathering. Reacting to the story, the actor said, Main bheega hua aadmi hoon, main baarish se nahi darta. He said, Yesterday, I reached a sabha an hour before but there was no one there. It was interesting. It was a comedy. It happens. I turned back my car and left. A newspaper reported no crowd for Anupams first meeting. They perhaps wanted to make me feel that nobody comes for me. It is not like that. I am already drenched and not scared of rain. It is pertinent to mention here that yesterday, the actors first public meeting at a residential area in Sector 28-C, which was scheduled for 4 pm, was cancelled at the last minute. He faced another embarrassment when he had to drive back from the inner market of Sector 35-C without attending a jan sabha as arrangements were not made at the scheduled time (5 pm) of the event. The celebrity, who yesterday started campaigning for his wife MP Kirron Kher, later slammed the Congress and sought support for the BJP candidate to make Narendra Modi the Prime Minister again. These days, I am hearing the Congress slogan Ab hoga nyay. Does this mean you were doing anyay for 60 years? How will you do nyay now? You are yourself out on bail, how will you do justice. They speak against valour of sena and support tukde-tukde gang. Do not let these people come to power or else you will harm your coming generations. I speak for PM Modi because I am with truth and honesty, he added. In his address, city BJP chief Sanjay Tandon recalled, I quite liked your (Anupams) movie Saaransh and even named my son after the films title. Tandon was among the contenders for the BJP ticket, which went to Kirron Kher. May 19 ko Sunday hai, chhutti manaane Pinjore mat chale jana. Us din vote daalne jana aur Kirron Kher ji ki sundar si photo pe click kar ke aana, he further told people. Maj Gen Amrit Pal Singh (Retd) Maj Gen Amrit Pal Singh (Retd) Ex-Chief of Logistics, Ladakh region Cyclone Fani has occupied centre stage right from its tracking to its landfall and the coordinated evacuation and relief operations along with the armed forces. Its not uncommon to watch the news and hear every other day of a toddler falling into a borewell, and more often the Army is called out to execute the rescue. The floods in Uttarakhand, Srinagar and Chennai are among the few where the rescue efforts were seen live on television across the nation. An incident that happened at McLeodganj, Dharamsala, in 2014 comes to mind as one of the many unseen acts of daring rescues. The Triund peak is a trekkers destination. As Divisional Commander at Palampur, I received a frantic call one evening at 8 pm from an Air Commodore in Mumbai regarding his brother having gone missing from trekking to Triund peak that day. Apparently, he had left alone on the trek and was not to be found till late evening. His mobile phone was also not in communication range. The Army garrison at McLeodganj was activated and both battalions prepared two teams each of personnel experienced in mountain rescue and recovery operations. The Brigade Commander was provided with helicopter sortie to be available at first light, courtesy the Western Command HQ at Chandimandir. Meanwhile, the teams immediately started along the trek route in the night to establish the likely areas where the trekker could have met with an accident. When the Brigadier got airborne early next morning, he set course to circle the area around Triund peak, all the while dialing the mobile of the lost trekker. Suddenly there was a response and a feeble voice answered contact was established. The trekker told him that he had fallen down the hillside and broken a leg, and he couldn't move from the grotto he had taken shelter at night. This was the basis for the search and rescue of the lost trekker around midnight. He was finally recovered and carried back to a road on stretcher down the steep hill slopes by one of the teams that went up the hillside from the nullah route so that they could reach the area where the man had dropped down during his fall. Forty-eight hours had elapsed since the rescue started. The point being made is that this was a civilian who was in distress and normally the police and civil administration should have been entrusted with the rescue. It turned out that they were ill equipped, had no portable communication means and were only able to launch a search party in daylight the next day. Considering that the trekker had a broken leg, was without food and water and probably in trauma due to the cold and his wounds, any delay in launching a search could have proved fatal. The Army just stepped in as always expected and God was kind that all ended well. What is noteworthy is that the troops that step in for these roles are not specialists or regularly involved in such tasks. In fact, they are the same stock of the average village lads that they step in to rescue. Yet, they acquit themselves and put in their best due to the training they get and the leadership that prepares them for the task. The Odisha Government has a good track record of handling disasters and such joint efforts showcase the positive and proactive role of the civil administration. Having said that, most of the times the administration is woefully underprepared despite having large allocation of funds, manpower and adequate warning. The preparations are at best a coordinating conference with the local Army garrison and the tendency is to leave the details to the Army columns. In times of natural calamities and other disasters, including law and order disturbances, the armed forces are called out to help the civil administration by a requisition from the local district magistrate. The armed forces take such duties seriously and prepare disaster relief columns of men and material and keep them on standby. The flood relief and internal security columns of troops are formed within battalions and units in the garrison and train for the task. All garrisons have a disaster and a flood relief plan and organise themselves to send in Aid to Civil Authorities as per an overall coordinated military-civil effort. Every garrison is distributed responsibilities and the area is covered for immediate response by columns. The NDRF and state bodies are involved in larger operations that recur, such as flood relief operations during monsoons, especially in the North-East. Here too, the Army steps in to provide boats, build bridges, set up medical camps and reach out to remote pockets to provide succour and safety. The Army is a well-trained force and will always be looked upon to step in to help in all situations, be it disasters or terror strikes or even large mega events, where national pride and efficiency is at stake. There, however, is a case in point to clearly divide responsibility and resource, as the size of the Army and its nationwide deployment, make the large numbers of ex-servicemen the best suited for manning the various organisations created for disaster relief. The very nature of the exposure in all parts of the country and all types of operations, right from the planning, to the training and execution phases, makes them best suited for the task. The trained manpower, from pilots to crane and dozer operators and rescue teams are a resource that cannot be underutilised, especially when there is constant requirement of disaster relief across the country. A case thus exists for the NDRF and state-level disaster relief contingents to be manned by ex-servicemen. An institutionalised mechanism to laterally absorb ex-servicemen into these contingents will not only prove beneficial to the state but also help provide re-employment to those superannuating. The success of the Ecological Territorial Army battalions in replanting green forests on denuded Himalayan ranges is an outstanding and live example of this model of employment by tapping into the rich reserves of expertise, practical experience and talent. KP Nayar KP Nayar Strategic Analyst Even as the global terrorist designation of Masood Azhar by the United Nations is a talking point all over India, there is one Lok Sabha constituency where the news is having a special resonance in the ongoing election campaign. This constituency is Amritsar. Foot soldiers of Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Hardeep Singh Puris campaign in Amritsar have lost no time in highlighting his personal contribution to this cause as a diplomat at the UN, especially as the Chairman of the Security Councils Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC). This line of campaigning began when news reports from New York spoke of the certainty that the Jaish-e-Mohammed chief would be finally nailed by the UNs sanctions committee and carried conviction by the time Masood Azhar was designated as a global terrorist last Wednesday. At the Majith Mandi off Amritsars Lahori Gate, traders in dry fruits, electronics and other wares along this markets narrow lanes appear impressed when it is explained to them with earthy rationale that in 2011, Puri took the anti-terrorism message right into the heart of Pakistans legislative establishment in Islamabad bypassing the Army and the civilian government. That year, the CTC, led by him, did indeed organise a campaign in Islamabad for Pakistani MPs on strengthening the oversight role of their Parliament in the implementation of laws dealing with anti-money-laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, AML/CFT, as these are known in UN parlance. This, Puris foot soldiers argue, was only possible because of the position he held at the UN then. Pakistan has been notoriously lax about money-laundering right under the noses of its so-called watchdog agencies and is a habitual offender on financing of terrorism. The CTCs 2011 outreach was the first international effort to contain this menace within Pakistan. If significant progress in that direction has since been made through the Financial Action Task Force, which was moribund until 2012, it could be traced to this outreach. I was then an accredited correspondent at the UN in New York. I recall that in the same year, the Puri-led CTC launched a regional initiative out of Bhutan to bring together police officers and public prosecutors in South Asia on practical steps to effectively counter terrorism. Since Indian and Pakistani law enforcement and judicial officers rarely, if at all, engage with each other, this was a pioneering effort to get them to talk bilaterally in a multilateral setting. It was a confidence-building measure (CBM) at a time when CBMs between India and Pakistan had died a slow death because of mutual trust deficit. But, perhaps this aspect of Puris actions at the UN is too complex for ordinary voters to understand, unlike the Masood Azhar episode, which is in black and white. Campaign material introducing Puri as a candidate devotes half a flap to his tenure as Ambassador to the UN from 2009, the year when India initiated the process of designating Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. Amritsar is arguably the only Lok Sabha constituency where foreign policy is fodder for the BJP campaign: that is, going beyond the subject of Pakistan and the fallout of the Balakot airstrike, which are part of the partys election plank in most constituencies. This is somewhat similar to Shashi Tharoors first Lok Sabha poll campaign in Thiruvananthapuram in 2009 when the UN loomed large on his platform because he was a runner-up in the election of the Secretary General prior to joining Indian politics. Or, VK Krishna Menons election to the Lok Sabha as an Independent candidate in 1971 from Thiruvananthapuram, when his campaign was peppered with references to his role at the UN. Addressing a large crowd near the main mandi in Majitha town last week along with local MLA Bikram Singh Majithia, Puri recalled that he had received Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau when he arrived at the Golden Temple last year. Puri was the minister-in-waiting during Trudeaus state visit, which appeared to sit well with voters even in this small town. Because Canada is to many Punjabis what Dubai is to Keralites or the US is to intending immigrants from Mexico, Puri has since spoken at several campaign meetings about his association with Canada. When he was Joint Secretary for the Americas in the Ministry of External Affairs, Canada was part of his charge, along with the US. But Houston, Texas, is the single biggest foreign factor that looms very large in Puris contest for the Amritsar seat. Even before he filed his nomination papers, at his first press conference after arriving in Amritsar, Puri was asked about an incident in 2010 at Houston airport, when he was asked by security screeners to remove his turban. The Union minister gave a detailed account of how he refused to comply with this demand on the ground that as a Sikh, US rules did not require him to remove his turban. The screeners were unaware of their own rules, but Puri, who was then Indias permanent representative to the UN stood his ground and was proved right although he nearly missed his flight in the process. Not only the candidate himself, but speakers at several BJP rallies have since spoken about Puris defence of the turbans sanctity. It would appear that it has endeared him not only to Sikh voters, but also to others who see him as someone from a developing country who defied the mighty American system. In retrospect, it is fortuitous for Puri that in November last year he was designated along with a ministerial colleague Harsimrat Kaur Badal to cross the border to Pakistan and represent India at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor. In many of his public appearances, Puri goes back to Atal Bihari Vajpayees commitment to the Kartarpur corridor as Prime Minister. Vajpayee, says the BJP candidate, enunciated this commitment when he visited Pakistan, but it is only the Narendra Modi government which has followed up on it. The Congress has largely skirted the BJPs effort to make foreign policy an election plank in Amritsar except on Kartarpur, which it views as a local issue. Its candidate, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, does not contest any of his opponent's claims in his public discourses: he even praises Puris role as a diplomat. But if Puri wins, there is no doubt that voters in Amritsar will demand their due from him as a man of the world for this constituency. Vappala Balachandran Vappala Balachandran Ex-special secretary, cabinet secretariat The brouhaha in political circles over Masood Azhars notification as a global terrorist, claiming it as the NDA governments most successful counter-terrorist action, is unwarranted. It is too early to say whether it would decisively hit the militants in J&K as predicted by Governor Satya Pal Malik. No doubt, our professional diplomats need to be complimented for their assiduous pursuit through the labyrinthine UN process to achieve this listing. Yet, the history of UNs 1267 sanctions regime does not lead to a conclusion that it is the most effective measure to contain terrorism as it depends on intangible ground realities. The UNSC sanction notifications predate 9/11. It started as an extradition measure. In 1999, it passed Resolution No 1267 to pressure the Taliban, then ruling Afghanistan, to hand over Osama bin Laden for the US embassy bombings in 1998. In 2000, Russia joined the US in strengthening the sanctions regime after the USS Cole bombing at Yemen. In mandating these sanctions, the Security Council overruled objections from their own Humanitarian Affairs Office (OCHA) that it would impose incalculable suffering on Afghan people, already groaning under the yoke of the Taliban. The first sanctions list in March 2001 contained 162 individuals and seven entities. After 9/11 the scope of sanctions was widened as a tool for combating global terrorism. In 2008 the list contained 482 individuals and entities. This period saw a lot of ad hocism in mandating sanctions as the 1267 committee went mostly by non verifiable intelligence reports, ignoring due process of law. Ten years later this list has shrunk to 257 individuals and 81 entities. Pressure from rights groups, academics as well as protests from affected states were responsible for reviewing and deleting some names. The first such protest was from Sweden when Somali-born Ahmed Ali Yusuf, Swedish national was sanctioned in 2001 for running Al-Barakaat Foundation, allegedly an international terrorist financing network. He was delisted in 2006. The same year, the then UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, called on the UNSC to set up fair and clear procedures for sanctions. The UN Special Rapporteur stressed the need for procedural guarantees in his report to the General Assembly describing the 1267 procedure as political decisions taken by states political representatives within political bodies based on confidential evidence. As a result, the UNSC passed Resolution No 1904 in 2009, creating the post of Ombudsperson to review cases and delete names from the list. These measures did not prevent individuals and entities from suing their own governments or nation groups like the EU against sanctions which have to be codified by local laws. As an example, Pakistan governments order of May 3 banning Azhars travel and freezing his assets could be challenged in local courts. In that way, UN-mandated sanctions would lose impact if local courts nullify or dilute local action. For instance, the newly created UK Supreme Court held in 2010 that the UK government had violated an individuals right to a fair trial when implementing the al-Qaeda sanctions regime in HM Treasury vs Ahmed (2010). Globally 40 such cases are pending in various courts. Three are in Pakistan: Pakistan Relief Foundation, Al-Aktar Trust and LeT chief Hafiz Saeed who was sanctioned in 2009 along with Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi and six others. UNSC sanctions have no effect on the ground in countries like North Korea, Iran or on militias in Libya, Yemen or Syria. In all such cases big powers have to take the responsibility of enforcing sanctions, which does not happen. In 2006, the UNSC enlisted the services of Interpol to help in applying sanctions. However, it too has to depend on states cooperation. In December 2015, the council unanimously adopted resolution 2253 to include individuals and entities supporting the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). But this step has not been of any use in controlling the remote radicalisation by the IS from 2014 onwards ending up with the recent Easter carnage in Sri Lanka. There are other reasons how these sanctions are ineffective. A case study by Stephen Tankhel, unquestionably the best authority on LeT, on the 10th anniversary of 26/11 attacks reveals how his piece affirms how much LeT is intertwined with Pakistans military-intelligence deep state. He says: In the decade since the Mumbai attacks, LeT leaders have gained a bigger seat at the table in Pakistan. Hafiz Saeed, under UNSC sanctions, founded the Milli Muslim League in 2017 and fielded his candidates for the 2018 elections under the banner of Allah-o-Tehreek as the poll commission did not recognise Milli. Tankhel adds that the ISI helped LeTs presence in eastern Afghanistan as a pressure release valve for the militants and to gather intelligence in Afghanistan. In March 2019, a pantomime was enacted by Pakistan, refusing visa to a UN team which wanted to interview Hafiz Saeed on his own application to the UN Independent Ombudsperson Daniel Kipfer Fasciati for removing him from the sanctions list. No formal reason was given by Pakistan Consulate in New York. Why was Pakistan reluctant to allow a UN meeting with Hafiz if he was innocent? For this reason the UNSC informed Hafizs lawyer that his listing would continue. In my article dated February 28, I had quoted a former Pakistan police officer telling an Oxford University conference (where I was also speaking) how useful Masood Azhar was to the Pakistan army. Azhar and Harkat-ul-Mujahideens Fazlur Rahman Khalil were brought in by the army to persuade Muhammad Aqeel, alias Dr Usman, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi leader, to back off during the 2009 Pakistan GHQ attack. In such a background do we really think that sanction will have any sobering effect on Azhar? shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com London, May 8 An Indian-origin banker is among three conmen jailed for defrauding elderly bank customers of more than 390,000 pounds and laundering the cash through multiple fake bank accounts in the UK. Taminder Virdi, 33, was found guilty of fraud following a six-week trial at Blackfriars Crown Court in London and was sentenced last week to three years and six months behind bars. His co-worker, Abubakar Salim, 36, was jailed for four years. The duo, who both worked at the same TSB branch in Stoke Newington in 2014, transferred funds out of customer accounts into 65 fraudulent beneficiary accounts they had opened. These accounts were controlled by accountant Babar Hussain, 40, who had pleaded guilty to all the offences before the start of trial and was jailed last Friday for five years and four months. Hussain is a professional money launderer who used his accountancy knowledge to steal hundreds of thousands of pounds from elderly banking customers, said Mike Hulett, Head of Operations at the National Crime Agency's National Cyber Crime Unit, which led the investigations. He was aided by two corrupt bank workers who abused their positions of trust, using false documents to set up bank accounts to launder the hard-earned savings of their unsuspecting victims, he said. Officers from the UK's NCA were alerted to their activity when one of the eight victims, all of whom were in their 70s, reported that 56,000 pounds had been transferred out of their bank account without consent. That money was then deposited into seven beneficiary accounts opened in different names. Hulett said: As soon as the first victim reported the theft we used our specialist cyber capabilities to follow the money and established the real world identities of these criminals. We are committed to working with partners to target professional enablers involved in cyber crime. Hussain was arrested in July 2016 and officers recovered a number of fraudulently obtained genuine driving licenses, which Virdi and Salim used along with fake gas and electric bills to open up the beneficiary accounts. When he was interviewed, Hussain claimed that part of his work in the community involved opening and managing bank accounts for those just arriving in the UK with no fixed address. Messages stored on Hussain's mobile phone identified other victims of fraud, where Virdi and Salim abused their position within the bank to access their accounts and transfer money into beneficiary accounts. Virdi was arrested in November 2016 and Salim in May 2017. At the time of Virdi's arrest, he had left TSB having resigned following an internal investigation into his fraudulent activities and was working for Santander bank. NCA investigations found that Virdi continued offending whist employed at Santander. He was immediately suspended following his arrest and Santander went on to support the NCA's investigation. Salim was also subject to an internal investigation at TSB and dismissed. Following the internal investigations, TSB formally reported the incidents to the police. All three accused were charged with fraud by abuse of position and money laundering, with the case concluding in their sentencing this week. All the customers who lost money at the hands of the fraudsters have been fully reimbursed by the banks. PTI monicakchauhan@gmail.com Singapore, May 7 The ex-wife of an Indian-origin neurologist in Singapore has been granted Singapore dollars 25 million in assets, child support and spousal support by a British Columbia court, in one of the biggest divorce payouts abroad. Gobinathan Devathasan, 69, whose behaviour was described as "reprehensible" during the litigation, was ordered on April 29 to pay his ex-wife Christie Devathasan Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in spousal support, with Canadian dollars 612,084 for child support. During the course of the litigation, Devathasan had handled funds in his Singapore bank account despite an asset freezing order, failed to disclose properties, deliberately embarrassed his daughter and suggested that a judge had "spread her legs wide" to the claimant's counsel, the court was told. The doctor ran a private clinic at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and had married Devathasan in 1997. She filed for divorce in 2016, Channel News Asia reported. The couple was described in the court judgment as being "uncommonly wealthy", and had owned expensive cars, jewellery, artwork and homes, with investment properties in Canada, the US, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. Devathasan divorced her first husband in 1996, while Devathasan divorced his first wife, with whom he had two children, in 1997. Shortly after, the couple married in Singapore in August 1997. The couple's relationship deteriorated in 2015 and early 2016, according to the court papers. Devathasan commenced divorce proceedings in July 2016. Devathasan obtained an asset freezing order and a protection order, and these orders were served to Devathasan in August 2016. The doctor claimed that they were not binding as he was in Singapore and took steps to deal with his assets. Devathasan's past conduct was also taken into account in deciding ongoing and future child support. He has to pay Canadian dollars 33,084 for past child support and a lump sum of Canadian dollars 579,000 for child support for the period through to June 2022. "For a long time he was utterly unwilling to acknowledge or fulfill his parental and spousal responsibilities or acknowledge this court's role in adjudicating those responsibilities," Justice Gomery said in his judgment. In an affidavit sworn on May 22, 2017, he stated: "I will not pay a dollar for alimony now or till death or whatever any one decrees, no matter what". The judge ordered Devathasan to pay ex-wife Devathasan Canadian dollars 2,351,000 in connection with the allocation of family property and debt. He will also have to pay a total of Canadian dollars 612,084 in child support, and Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in total for spousal support. The Canadian dollars 16.4 million in assets granted to Devathasan include a house in West Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 6.2 million, an apartment in Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 2.35 million and an apartment in Florida worth Canadian dollars 2.48 million. The doctor was granted Canadian dollars 21.4 million after the proceedings. The judge described Devathasan as a "hardworking man all his life", adding that the doctor worked Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings throughout his career in private practices. "He has loyal patients," the judge was quoted as saying in the report. PTI vinaymishra188@gmail.com Nitin Jain Tribune News Service Ambala, May 7 Using the Mahabharata analogy to hit back at PM Narendra Modi over his Bhrashtachari (corrupt) no. 1 jibe at her late father Rajiv Gandhi, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra today said: Modi is as arrogant as Duryodhana. Addressing a rally in support of Kumari Selja, party candidate from Ambala, at Gandhi Ground, she said palpable anger against the PMs arrogance would bring the Congress back to power at the Centre. This nation has never forgiven ego and arrogance. Mahabharata is witness to this. Duryodhana also had such arrogance. When Lord Krishna went to make him understand, he tried to take him captive, she said. Saying wisdom is the first casualty before someones downfall, she read out a couplet by Hindi poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar: Jab naash manush par chhata hai, pehle vivek mar jata hai. She said if the PM had courage, he should fight the LS polls on issues related to development, employment, farmers and women. He should face people and tell them what he has done for them in the past five years and what he plans to do in future. As a PM, he should understand this, otherwise people will teach him a lesson, she said. On Modis remark against her father, she said: You cannot mislead people. They make every leader answerable and they will make you answerable as well. Priyanka said instead of talking about real issues and telling people why they did not fulfil their promises, BJP leaders were raising other issues while seeking votes. Sometimes they say the elephant was sleeping for 70 years, sometimes they seek votes in the name of martyrs, and at other times they insult my family members who sacrificed their lives for the nation, she rued. Where are achhe din? The Rs 15 lakh that they promised to credit in everyones accounts? The two crore jobs per annum? she asked. Selja, Rajya Sabha MP and former Union Minister, is pitted against sitting BJP MP Rattan Lal Kataria in Ambala (reserved) parliamentary constituency. Selja too attacked the BJP and Kataria, saying he proved to be a complete failure. Priyanka is the third generation Congress leader to address a rally at Gandhi Ground. Her parents Sonia Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, and grandmother Indira Gandhi too had addressed rallies here. editorial@tribune.com Sunit Dhawan Tribune News Service Rohtak, May 7 There is a sharp contrast on the issues on which the BJP and the Congress the two major parties in the fray in Haryana seem to be contesting the Lok Sabha elections. Congress candidates are seeking votes in the name of development works carried out and the social harmony maintained during the tenures of the party in the state. On the other hand, BJP leaders have been harping on the TINA (there is no alternative to Modi) factor, recent airstrikes on Pakistan and the fairness in the selection for government jobs. The ruling party also hopes to get the benefit of the caste-based polarisation of voters post-2016 Jat quota stir. The Congress has fielded heavyweight candidates such as two-time CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, five-time MP Kumari Selja, four-time MP Avtar Singh Bhadana, three-time MP Deepender Singh Hooda, state Congress president Ashok Tanwar, former MP Shruti Choudhry, six-time MLA Capt Ajay Singh Yadav, former Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Sharma, four-time MLA Nirmal Singh and late leader Bhajan Lals grandson Bhavya Bishnoi. On the other hand, barring Union Ministers Rao Inderjit and Krishan Pal Gurjar and sitting MPs Ratan Lal Kataria and Dharambir Singh, there are no prominent faces on the BJP list of Haryana candidates. In fact, four of the BJPs 10 candidates in the state Nayab Singh Saini, Sanjay Bhatia, Brijendra Singh and Sunita Duggal are contesting the Lok Sabha elections for the first time. To make up for the lack of seasoned candidates, the BJP leadership is holding the Modi plank to sail through the electoral stream. The saffron party is also likely to get the benefit of the caste-based polarisation of voters, says Prof Rajender Sharma, head of the department of political science at MDU in Rohtak. Dr Ram Kanwar, former professor of economics and political analyst, points out that the Modi factor was milder as compared to the 2014 elections and, this time, the BJP expected to get the benefit of the caste-based polarisation, especially in the Jat-dominated Rohtak and Sonepat from where the saffron party has fielded non-Jat candidates. However, some analysts feel the effect of the caste-based polarisation will manifest in urban and sub-urban areas, and not much in the rural belt. rchopra@tribunemail.com Kurukshetra/ Fatehabad, May 8 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused the Congress of hurling abuses at him from its love dictionary and said the party did not even spare his mother. I stopped their corruption and challenged their dynasty because of which they wear masks of love and abuse me, he said in a rally at Kurukshetra. The prime minister claimed that the Congress also compared him to Hitler, Dawood Ibrahim, Mussolini, etc. I am visiting my home, Haryana and Kurukshetra is a land of truth so from here I want to tell my countrymen what is their love dictionary and the words they use for me, Modi said. His remarks came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi said on Monday that despite Modi insulting his father Rajiv Gandhi, he only had love for the prime minister. A leader of Congress called me gandi naali ka keeda (an insect), one leader called me a mad dog, another one called me Bhasmasura. One more Congress leader, who was external affairs minister, called me a monkey while another minister compared me with Dawood Ibrahim, Modi alleged. They even abused my mother and even asked who my father is and remember all this was said after I became prime minister, he said. He was speaking at his second poll rally of the day in Haryana. Before this, he had addressed a public meeting in Fatehabad. Modi said after five phases of election, the Congress-led opposition had given up the fight and the situation is clear now that the BJP would form government at the Centre. He said that with the blessings of the people, the BJP-led NDA formed the government in 2014 and in the past five years, Indias stature had increased in the world. Now, the situation is quite clear, with the blessings of countrymen, when the results will be out by May 23 evening, it will once again be Phir ek bar (Modi government again), the PM said. The Congress and their mahamilavati allies have given up the fight, and their intention to form a khichdi aur majboor sarkar in Delhi has fallen flat, Modi said. He alleged that the Congress had done bhrashtachar ki kheti and the proof is in Haryana and elsewhere. The prime minister alleged that the Congress has given tickets to people who talk about chopping him into pieces. He said nobody has ever questioned this behaviour of Congress leaders. Those who talk about chopping me into pieces, Congress has backed them by giving them tickets and increased their morale because they want to chop Modi into pieces, Modi said. I know speaking such kind of words from a public platform is not right. Children studying in schools and colleges, they too are listening to my speech, but they should neither learn nor speak such kind of language (used by Congress leaders against him), he added. Ten Lok Sabha seats of Haryana go to polls in the sixth phase on May 12. editorial@tribune.com Bhartesh Singh Thakur Tribune News Service Faridabad, May 7 The Congress candidate from Faridabad, Avtar Singh Bhadana, is a curious case. The party, ideology and constituency dont matter to him. He can apparently land anywhere anytime with ease. After losing his deposit in 2014 to BJP nominee Krishan Pal Gurjar in Faridabad, he joined the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD). In 2017, he contested the Assembly election at Meerapur in Uttar Pradesh in 2017 on the BJP ticket and won. And now, he has come back as Congress nominee in Faridabad, which elected him three times in the past on the Congress ticket (in 1991, 2004, 2009). In 1998, he contested the Faridabad Lok Sabha election on the ticket of Samajwadi Janata Party (Rashtriya), but came third. From 1999-2004, he was Congress MP from Meerut (UP). I am a national leader. The Congress has chosen me as only I can defeat Krishan Pal Gurjar. I lost in 2014 as people believed in Modis promise that Rs 15 lakh would come in each bank account. The candidates didnt matter as people voted for Modi. But now they are suffering, he said. About the INLD, he said, I supported them as Devi Lal and his family have always stood for the farmers, he said. But why did he join the BJP? I got impressed with the BJP. The party forced me to contest as it said that would impact the outcome in UP. So, I became an MLA. Now, I have resigned from all posts, but the party does not have the guts to accept my resignation. Returning to the Congress is like ghar wapsi, he claimed. I represent Gurjars. I wear their turban, he emphatically said. During his public meeting on Monday at Dhing village in Ballabhgarh, Bhadana talked of Rahul Gandhi and Devi Lal as messiah of farmers. Targeting Union minister Krishan Pal Gurjar, Bhadana blamed him and his maternal uncle for illegal mining and running liquor and land mafias. He talked about the rising pollution in Faridabad but couldnt spell out clearly what he would do to reduce it. Bhadana to again lose deposit: Sitting MP shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com WASHINGTON Levels of harmful airborne pollutants in nail salons are similar to that of an oil refinery or an auto garage, putting employees at increased risk of developing cancers, respiratory difficulties and skin irritation, a study warns. The research, which monitored volatile organic compound (VOC) levels in six nail salons, is among the first to illustrate the serious health risks prevalent in the industry. According to a team from the University of Colorado Boulder in the US, nail salon employees face increased health risks due to high levels of indoor airborne pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that long-term exposure to carcinogenic compounds significantly raises the chances of developing cancers such as leukemia and Hodgkin's lymphoma. "The study provides some of the first hard evidence that these environments are dangerous for workers and that better policies need to be enacted to protect them," said Lupita Montoya, lead author of the research. Montoya's interest in researching airborne hazards in nail salons dates back nearly a decade. She recalls visiting a salon years ago and being struck by the pungent smell of open chemicals used in gel and acrylic nail applications. The air quality could not be very good in such a confined space with poor ventilation, she suspected, drawing on her background as a mechanical engineer. However, while many of the VOCs from nail products had already been identified, no scientific studies had looked at the long-term health impacts for workers exposed to them day in and day out. Montoya tried to get field tests started, but securing a location proved difficult. Nail salons in the US are small businesses, employing a predominantly minority workforce and lacking the resources to adequately address worker health and safety. Fearing consequences, many declined to participate, Montoya said. In 2017, four undergraduate students working with Montoya used personal connections to help secure access to six salons for a monitoring test over the course of 18 months. The salons agreed to participate on the condition of anonymity. The researchers set up equipment to monitor known VOCs such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes (BTEX, collectively) along with formaldehyde. While formaldehyde levels were similar to those measured in other settings, the study turned up higher-than-expected concentrations of harmful benzene, which has been linked to leukemia, in all six salons. The team asked employees to fill out questionnaires about employment practices, safety practices and health symptoms. Technicians reported working an average of 52.5 hours per week, with some ranging as high as 80 hours per week. Seventy per cent of workers reported experiencing at least one adverse symptom, with common responses including headaches, skin irritation and eye irritation. The study found that for workers in some salons, lifetime cancer risk was up to 100 times higher than baseline EPA-issued levels. The researchers stressed that salon customers, however, face significantly fewer risks. The observed levels of air pollution observed are unlikely to have any negative health effects on all but the most vulnerable, such as those who are pregnant or have serious asthma. The team is also working on ways to reduce VOC concentrations passively using low-cost, absorbent materials like heat-treated coal or wood with strong affinity for organic molecules like BTEX compounds. These activated carbon materials can remove harmful VOCs through passive diffusion. Researchers used activated carbon-based materials to create gallery-worthy artwork. The pieces could hang on the wall in a nail salon, pleasing to the eye while quietly cleaning the air. However, this method takes a long time. Air jets that direct polluted air toward the absorbent material with greater flow provide far more efficient removal. In an ideal real-world setting, small jets would sit at the end of each table, fanning the chemical fumes directly toward the charcoal artwork, efficiently eliminating lingering VOCs. PTI editorial@tribune.com Our Correspondent UNA, May 7 Senior Congress leaders today met here to finalise the details of party president Rahul Gandhis visit to Una on May 10. Gandhi is scheduled to address an election rally at the police grounds in Jhalera village near Una. Former CM Virbhadra Singh, party in charge of state affairs Rajni Patil, co-in charge Gurkirat Kotli, Congress president Kuldip Rathore, Leader of the Opposition Mukesh Agnihotri and party leaders from almost all Assembly segments of Hamirpur attended the meeting. Later, talking to mediapersons, Virbhadra Singh took a jibe at former CM Shanta Kumar. Responding to Kumars earlier remarks that Virbhadra Singh was forced by the Congress high command to canvass for the party candidates, Singh said while he was still campaigning, the condition of Shanta was such that he was forced by his party high command to sit at home. Again reiterating that Sukh Ram was in the Aya Ram Gaya Ram politics, Virbhadra Singh was soft on his grandson Ashray, saying that he had accepted him as a Congress candidate from Mandi. Reacting to Prime Minister Narendra Modis remarks against Rajiv Gandhi, Rajni Patil said the BJP called itself a disciplined party having high moral values, but the seniormost leader was using insulting language against his predecessor, who had sacrificed his life for the nation. Ex-CM takes a dig at Shanta over campaigning vinaymishra188@gmail.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 7 The Supreme Court today transferred from Shimla to Chandigarh a case relating to the alleged custodial death of a man accused of gangrape and murder of a minor schoolgirl in Kotkhai, Himachal Pradesh, in 2017. A 16-year-old girl went missing in Kotkhai on July 4, 2017, and her body was found from Halaila forests on July 6. The post-mortem confirmed rape and murder. Amid public outcry, an SIT, headed by Inspector General of Police Zahur Haidar Zaidi, was constituted that arrested six persons. After the custodial death of accused Suraj, the High Court handed over the probe to the CBI. Zaidi and seven others were arrested in connection with the custodial death of Suraj. On Tuesday, a three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi transferred the case to Chandigarh after the CBI and the accused said they had no objection to the case being shifted out of Himachal. The CBI counsel said a chargesheet had been filed against several police officials. While granting bail to Zaidi on April 5, the SC had said it would deal with the issue of transferring the trial at a later stage. vinaymishra188@gmail.com Pratibha Chauhan Tribune News Service Shimla, May 7 Expressing anguish at the deterioration of political discourse and the choice of words being used for opponents, former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shanta Kumar today said the word neta is no longer considered respectable. BJPs Kangra MP, who was here to deliver a lecture, said he was pained at this trend. When I became an MLA, Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar was the Congress CM and I had the opportunity to learn so much from him, he remarked, adding that today people have little respect for those in public life because of the conduct of politicians. Narrating an incident, he recalled: When I was the CM, I went to meet Narasimha Rao along with the then Union Power Minister to raise the issue of royalty in hydro power. When I said though I am from the Opposition party but this is our states demand, the Prime Minister said, Dont say that, as a party has a government but the government has no party. Shanta Kumar said he was of the firm opinion that every leader must exercise restraint and be very particular about the choice of words he uses for his opponents. Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he pointed out, was very magnanimous in appreciating any good gesture by Opposition leaders. The two-time CM said another aspect which disturbed him was the culture of changing parties and loyalties. This election has also witnessed a lot of political turmoil with many changing parties, which is not a very healthy trend, said Shanta Kumar. He has in the past been very critical of Sukh Rams shifting loyalties. Refusing to be drawn into a controversy over the issue of senior leaders like LK Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi and he himself not being fielded by the party this time, he said, If this is not done, how would the younger lot get an opportunity? As far as I am concerned, I was not keen to even contest the 2014 Lok Sabha polls but Rajnath Singhji insisted that I should fight despite my suggesting three other names. To a query on the issue of personality cult in the BJP, he said there was complete democracy in the party and PM Narendra Modi had made a place for himself. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Shimla, May 7 Former CM and Lok Sabha MP Shanta Kumar today said even though Virbhadra Singh is being pressurized to make statements against Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, his remarks against his own party candidates are helping the BJP. Addressing a press conference here, Shanta said Virbhadra is, in fact, doing BJP campaigning by making adverse remarks about the Congress candidates in the Lok Sabha elections. He said the Congress in Himachal is plagued by factionalism and the party does not seem to be heading anywhere as far as the campaigning goes. In fact, it is so obvious that the Congress is compelling Virbhadra to speak against Jai Ram Thakur, much against his wishes, he claimed. The Congress neither has a leader, nor direction. Coalition partners have no common minimum programme as a result of which the BJP will get even higher vote percentage than last time, making Modi Prime Minister again, he said. Shanta said Modi is BJPs face and the achievements of the NDA regime during the last five years are there before the people. The picture on the Congress side is hazy and confused. The party has nothing to list as achievements, he remarked. He said the voters are well aware that to have a stable and strong government, they must vote Modi back to power. Shanta said within its one-year rule in Himachal, the Chief Minister has proved beyond doubt that he is sensitive to the problems of the common people. The changes made in the industrial policy will attract big investment as the procedure has been made less cumbersome and many NOCs done away with, which was the major hurdle faced by investors earlier, he said. Shanta hoped that some big investment would be made in Himachal at the proposed Global Investors meet to be held at Dharamsala next month. Tourism has maximum potential for providing much-needed employment and hopefully there will be investment in this sector, he said. He also said that once the elections are over, he will take up the issue of giving more incentives to investors who take up setting of the cement plant in Chamba. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Lethpora, May 7 With the elections in the region over, shopkeepers lined along both sides of the highway in Lethpora village are hopeful that things might return to normal. Lethpora, nearly 20 km from Srinagar, is a highway village on the outskirts of Pampore, a town which is famed for producing the pricy spice saffron. A massive suicide bombing in February that had hit vehicles of a paramilitary convoy crossing through Lethpora had shook the village and its highway market that trades in saffron and dried fruits. Mohammad Younis, who owns a shop in Lethpora where he sells saffron and dried fruits, had a modest hope. He wishes for return of the old time that existed prior to February suicide bombing which had brought India and Pakistan on the brink of a war and also brought its horrors to Lethpora. As the administration made a strict overhaul of security arrangement to guard convoys moving through the highway, trade in Lethpora village became an immediate casualty. The impact on our trade has been 100 per cent. Tourists were our main customer base and the tourism has dropped but our problem is that the vehicles are no longer allowed to stop on the highway, Younis said. Lethpora went to the polls on Monday when voting was held in two of the four districts of the Anantnag constituency. On the voting day, the village was enveloped in disquiet and only a few residents went to vote amid heavy security arrangement that give a sense of siege. The polling station in Lethpora was metres away from the site of the bombing, which had made a crater in the highway that has since been tarmacked. Another saffron seller at Lethpora said it was premature to pin any hope. It is difficult to tell if there is any difference since yesterday. It will take us a few days to notice any change, he said. Several people said they noticed a change in the tense atmosphere, a day after the voting, but were unsure if the change would stay. editorial@tribune.com Samaan Lateef Tribune News Service Srinagar, May 7 The state government further relaxed restrictions on the movement of civilian traffic on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Tuesday, with the authorities partially lifting the ban on the Srinagar-Udhampur stretch. As the requirement of security forces had reduced following the completion of the elections in Kashmir, restrictions on civilian traffic on the Srinagar-Udhampur stretch would be lifted on Wednesdays with effect from May 13, said an official statement. The prohibition on civilian traffic on this stretch will now be only on Sunday(s), it said. The authorities had earlier relaxed the ban on the Srinagar-Baramulla stretch of the highway. The restrictions on the movement of civilian traffic two days a week were enforced after a Jaish-e-Mohammed suicide attacker rammed his explosive-laden vehicle into a bus in a CRPF convoy, killing 40 personnel on February 14. To ensure the safe movement of security forces, the government had imposed a prohibition on civilian traffic on the national highway from Baramulla to Udhampur on Sunday and Wednesday every week from 4 am to 5 pm. The government has been reviewing the situation to balance the security needs of forces convoys with the need for minimising public inconvenience. It said a review of the remaining restrictions on the highway would be done subsequently. editorial@tribune.com Aamir Khan Tribune News Service Srinagar, May 7 Days after the killing of a BJP worker in south Kashmir, party state general secretary (organisation) Ashok Koul staged a novel protest by surrendering his security cover. After the demonstration at the Press Enclave here, Koul left the venue in an autorickshaw while demanding security for political activists. However, the symbolic protest was also censured with people asking from whom the BJP was demanding security. Our protest is against the killings of political activists. They need to be given security to create a conducive atmosphere. I am surrendering my security till all my workers in Kashmir as well as in Jammu get protection, Koul told reporters. He said the political activists needed security so that they could work with people and improve the situation. A few other BJP leaders too left their special police officers behind at the Press Enclave and left the venue in private vehicles even as the symbolic protest drew flak. The BJP is confused in J&K. From whom they are demanding security? They have their own government in the state as well as in the Centre. The BJP has own Governor in J&K. It is the BJP which initiated withdrawal of security from all protected politicians. Now they are demanding restoration of security, said Vinod Pandit, chairman, All Parties Migrants Coordination Committee. The BJP protest also drew sharp reactions on the social media with many terming it a drama. MLC Surinder Ambardar, MLC Ramesh Arora, state spokesperson Altaf Thakur and Kashmir media in charge Manzoor Bhat were part of the protest. BJP leader Gul Mohammad Mir was shotat Verinag in Anantnag district on May 4. Koul said he had personally approached senior police officers asking them not to withdraw Mirs security. shalender@tribune.com Gauri Chhabra One sector that would always boom and is recession proof is healthcare and its cousin, pharmaceuticals. With many drugs hitting the market, there is a growing need for vigilance and a check to prevent and monitor the adverse effect of drugs. There is a complete science to it. It is called Pharmacovigilance. Let us understand what it is and what are the careers in this growing field. Pharmacovigilance (PV or PhV), also known as drug safety, is the pharmacological science relating to the collection, detection, assessment, monitoring, and prevention of adverse effects with pharmaceutical products. As such, pharmacovigilance focuses on adverse drug reactions, or ADRs, which are defined as any response to a drug which is noxious and unintended, including lack of efficacy. Medication errors such as overdose, and misuse and abuse of a drug as well as drug exposure during pregnancy and breastfeeding, are also of interest, even without an adverse event, because they may result in an adverse drug reaction. Simply put, Pharmacovigilance, is drug safety. It can be defined as the study and prevention of adverse effects caused by pharmaceutical products. Pharmacovigilance is the reason because of which many drugs are withdrawn from or are not even brought into the market at times. The government supports and helps to implement courses in pharmacovigilance as their primary goal is to ensure students of medicine are aware of the adverse effects of certain drugs. Pharmacovigilance makes it possible to implement quality systems in all pharmaceutical companies that manufacture large amounts of medicine. Information received from patients and healthcare providers via pharmacovigilance agreements (PVAs), plays a critical role in providing the data necessary for pharmacovigilance to take place. In fact, in order to market or to test a pharmaceutical product in most countries, adverse event data received by the license holder must be submitted to the local drug regulatory authority. Ultimately, pharmacovigilance is concerned with identifying the hazards associated with pharmaceutical products and with minimising the risk of any harm that may come to patients. Companies must conduct a comprehensive drug safety and pharma audits to assess their compliance with worldwide laws, regulations, and guidance. Genesis Pharmacovigilance (PV) was officially introduced in December 1961 by an Australian doctor who first suspected a causal link between serious foetal deformities and thalidomide, a drug used during pregnancy: Thalidomide was used as an antiemetic and sedative agent in pregnant women. In 1968, the World Health Organisation (WHO) promoted the "Programme for International Drug Monitoring", a pilot project aimed to centralise world data on adverse drug reactions (ADRs). In particular, the main aim of the "WHO Programme" was to identify the earliest possible PV signals. Career scape This field offers a great career option for life science and pharmacy graduates. It is a scientific discipline that is primarily concerned with reporting and analysing of drug side effects. It is primarily due to the work of these professionals that the drugs in the market that we consume are mostly safe and those that are found harmful are taken off the market. After a drug side effect is reported, these professionals enter the event in relevant databases, follow up with the case to gather more information and forward these reports to regulatory authorities and other applicable bodies. Pharmacovigilance professionals identify signals in data that may point towards a potential side effect and probe the case further. Job responsibilities Recording and reporting adverse reactions received from healthcare professionals and consumers Conducting in-depth interviews with patients and healthcare professionals Developing a thorough knowledge of products Completing periodic safety update reports on drugs and other treatments Writing and reviewing serious adverse effects reports and forms Flagging up early warning signs of adverse effects of drugs Minimising the risk of serious side effects Completing safety audits Working on clinical trials of new drugs Getting in Candidates of pharmacovigilance can pursue both certificate and diploma courses. In order to pursue a career in this field, the minimum eligibility criteria to apply for the course is: A postgraduate or graduate degree in bioscience/life sciences (with any of the following subjects: botany, zoology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, biotech) with at least 50 per cent marks in aggregate A postgraduate or graduate degree with chemistry as a subject with at least 50 per cent marks in aggregate A postgraduate or graduate degree in Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences A postgraduate or graduate degree in Medicine Career pathways Till a few years ago, BSc and MSc graduates were hired for pharmacovigilance. Soon companies started getting BPharm students in the same pay scale as BSc n MSc hence companies started hiring pharmacy graduated and postgraduates. You can make a career in creating, Individual Case Safety Reports (ICSRs), PSUR (Periodic Safety Update Reports), Signal detection, Risk Management, Medical Coding, and Medical Writing. An entry-level job in this field is DSA (Drug Safety Associate). DSAs are mainly involved in case creation, checking for MSI (Minimum safety information a patient, a reporter, a suspect drug and an adverse event), reconciliation and follow-up process, data entry of all information available in the document and medical coding. Once a candidate has 2-3 years experience and builds required skill sets (medical coding, narrative and scientific writing, good understanding of medical terms and basic understanding of regulatory affairs, ICH-GCP and compliance) he can go on to become a DSS (Drug Safety Scientist). The road ahead At present, India is the fourth largest producer of pharmaceuticals in the world, and therefore, there is a surfeit of drug brands with more than 6,000 licensed drug manufacturers and over 60,000 branded formulations. India offers unique advantages for the growth of pharmacovigilance that include rapid induction of New Chemical Entities (NCEs) and high technology pharmaceutical products in the market, an abundance of patients with genetic diversity, presence of lakhs of formulation in the domestic market and a large world-scale Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) database. All this makes India a thriving platform for an exciting and lucrative career in pharmacovigilance. Who are pharmacovigilance officers? Pharmacovigilance officers are drug safety officers. They are responsible for monitoring and reporting the effectiveness and any adverse effects or side effects of pharmaceutical products on the market in the general population and in hospitals and research trials. They must liaise closely with medical and drug company representatives, patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to record the effectiveness of drugs and other treatments. The data is meticulously recorded, analysed and processed because the informed opinions of pharmacovigilance officers help pharmaceutical companies to maximise product safety and performance, and cut down on adverse effects. Top recruiters You can find good job options in the following sectors: Pharmaceutical Companies (MNCs & Indian) & Biotech companies. Clinical Research Organisations. Regulatory Agencies like DCG (I) & CDSCO Pharmacovigilance units in Medical colleges & Hospitals Asian clinical trials serene, Bioserve, Clin invent, Clintec international, Clinigene, Dr Reddy's lab, Elly Lilly, Glaxo SmithKline, IGATE clinical research, Johnson & Johnson, Lambda therapeutic research, Lupin limited, Matrix laboratories ltd., Merck, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Pharmanet, Quintiles, Ranbaxy, Roche India, Sristek, Siro Clinpharma, Synchron, Sanofi Aventis, Torrent Pharma, Reliance life science, Amed, Accutest, Actimus, Adroit insights, Alembic, Asian Clinical Trials. Institute watch shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com Mumbai, May 8 Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has thanked Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju for supporting him amid a row over his citizenship and has committed himself to the cause of the government-led fund-raising initiative Bharat Ke Veer. "Thank you so much Kiren Rijiju Sir, and I apologize for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to Bharat Ke Veer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what," Akshay tweeted. Thank you so much @KirenRijiju Sir, and I apologise for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to #BharatKeVeer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what https://t.co/W1298prsEQ Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) 7 May 2019 His post comes days after Rijiju tweeted in support of the actor, who faced the fury of trolls when his citizenship was questioned. "Dear Akshay Kumarji, no one can question your patriotism. Your motivation to our armed forces personnel and the way you generated funds for our martyrs through Bharat Ke Veer programme will remain an example for every patriotic Indian," Rijiju tweeted on May 3. Dear @akshaykumar ji, no one can question your patriotism. Your motivation to our Armed Forces personnel and the way you generated funds for our martyrs through #BharatKeVeer programme will remain an example for every patriotic Indian. https://t.co/RdFl2oyKhF Chowkidar Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) 3 May 2019 The controversy blew up as Akshay did not vote in the Lok Sabha elections. Akshay holds a Canadian citizenship and had expressed "disappointment" that his citizenship issue is "constantly dragged into needless controversy". He wrote: "I really don't understand the unwarranted interest and negativity about my citizenship. I have never hidden or denied that I hold a Canadian passport. It is also equally true that I have not visited Canada in the last seven years. I work in India, and pay all my taxes in India. He added: "While all these years, I have never needed to prove my love for India to anyone, I find it disappointing that my citizenship issue is constantly dragged into needless controversy, a matter that is personal, legal and non-political, and of no consequence to others. "Lastly, I would like to continue contributing in my small way to the causes that I believe in and make India stronger and stronger." IANS gspannu7@gmail.com Los Angeles, May 8 George Clooney says the media should be a little kinder to Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, after she gave birth to a baby boy. Clooney told The Associated Press on Tuesday at the Hollywood premiere of his movie Catch 22 that the media scrutiny will intensify now that she and Prince Harry are parents. The actor says the media coverage is part of being members of the royal family. However, Clooney says the coverage steps into a really dark place when the media interviews peoples parents. He says the press turned on them and he thinks people should be kinder because shes a young woman who just had a baby. Clooneys wife, Amal, attended the duchess baby shower and the Clooneys have vacationed with the royal couple. AP harinder@tribunemail.com Ritu Kamra Kumar A baby girl is a bundle of joy. As a youngster, unrestricted and uninhibited she wants to fly. Yet, she is conditioned to limit herself not to be expressive, not to be assertive, follow norms set by socially constructed myths. Why is a woman always seen as a victim or an object? The recent video of an enraged middle-aged woman trying to shame younger women in short dresses and asking men to rape them reflects a regressive approach of society, dictating women what to wear, where to go. It is not about an individuals objection to the choice of dress worn by some girls, but about the whole social edifice which represses them. Since childhood, women are raised with preconceived notions of their parents, family and societys dos and donts. We all are from diverse backgrounds, irrespective of our cultures and societies. The other day in the park, I overheard the conversation of some women criticising their daughters-in-law for not wearing dupatta. We all breathe in the air of androcentrism, the system that positions the male in the centre of the universe, sidelining the female counterpart. Our behaviour, thoughts and mindsets, all are patriarchal in every possible way. Be it our daughters or daughters-in-laws, restricting them in the name of protectiveness or circumscribing limits for the gender expecting a particular behaviour that defines whats acceptable and whats not our minds are confined in staunch walls of orthodoxy. We are centuries behind our times. That girls who wear short dresses and bare legs mean to send an invitation to sexual assault is the Victorian aunts distorted perspective, who herself is vulnerable as a woman because social media snubbed her outright, shaming her for her demeaning comment. Eventually she was forced to apologise. Her myopic behaviour is one of the ways patriarchy sustains itself by making women victimise other women. Women are often complicit, blindly following the dictates of men, who are sovereign beings. Actually the problem is that we have stereotyped the image of woman in general in our subconscious. Stereotyping how a woman should look, act and express herself; what kind of jobs she can do; what her duties are, as a good wife, mother and daughter. Furthermore, her basic role is to procreate. On that basis she is judged by the populace. We have created a box and then want a woman to be put into that box. If she doesnt fit into the box, we label her as shameless and imperfect. We talk about progressive thinking; beti bachao, beti padhao; selfie with daughter, Samridhi bank account, etc., but still we dont accept her wearing a dress of her choice. This is the sad reality of a womans life. Arent we repressive in our approach? What about the often-talked vision of an equal society? shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com Hyderabad, May 8 A six-month-old baby boy, who was allegedly kidnapped by a person and sold it to another for Rs 10,000 here last week was rescued Wednesday with the arrest of two people, police said. The boy was allegedly abducted from the house of the prime accused Shaik Ahmed from Balapur here in the wee hours of May 3, where the boys mother and grandmother had gone to as the accused was acquainted with them, the police said. Shaiktook the boy away while his mother and grandmother were asleep and after locking the house from the outside, he fled to Nanded in Maharashtra before selling the baby to Mir Fayaz Ali for Rs 10,000, they said. Based on a complaint by the boys mother, a case was registered and special police teams were formed to nab Ahmed, the police said. During course of investigation, Ahmed was apprehended from Nanded and on interrogation he confessed to have abducted the boy and had sold him to Ali for Rs 10,000. The police rescued the boy from Alis possession here and handed him over to his parents, police added. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com Satya Prakash Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 8 Ahead of the May 10 hearing, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tendered an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court over his chowkidar chor hai jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrongly attributed to the top court. In his latest affidavit--third on the issue--the Congress president tendered an unconditional apology for wrongfully attributing his controversial remarks to the court and requested it to drop contempt proceedings against him. In his earlier two affidavits, Gandhi had merely expressed regret over his comments and said that the remarks were made in the heat of political campaigning. A Bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had issued notice to him on a contempt petition filed by Delhi BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi accusing him of misquoting the top courts verdict on admissibility of certain documents in the Rafale review petitions hearing. Admitting that he wrongly attributed his chowkidar chor hai jibe at Modi to the courts April 10 verdict on admissibility of certain documents in the Rafale case, Rahul on April 30 had issued a verbal apology to the Supreme Court for his mistake. I am saying sorry.I sincerely apologise for attributing the comments to the honourable court, senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Gandhi, had told a Bench headed by CJI Gogoi. But where is the apology in your affidavit? When you commit a mistake, you should admit the mistake, the Bench which also included Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice KM Joseph--had said. We have great difficulty in understanding what you want to say in the affidavit, it added. I (Gandhi) will file a short affidavit unconditionally apologising to the court, Singhvi had said. He said his client admitted that he made a mistake and thats why he expressed regret. On behalf of Lekhi, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi had said that Gandhi had only expressed regret and not apologised to the court. Accusing Gandhi of dragging the top court into a political fight, Rohatgi had said, Its like adding insult to the injuryYou either justify your comment or tender an unconditional apology. The Bench had pointed out contradictions in Gandhis affidavit saying he was both admitting his mistake and justifying it. You make the statement and then justify it. Where in our order we have said so? How do you attribute all these statements to us? asked the Bench which had earlier clarified that it had never made such remarks about the PM. We make it clear that the views or representation attributed to the court in the alleged address made by the respondent (Rahul Gandhi) to the media and public at large has been incorrectly attributed to this court. We had no such occasion to make such a comment during the hearing, the top court had said on April 15 asking Gandhi to explain his remarks. He had filed an affidavit expressing mere regret for the lapse. This led to the court issuing him notice on April 23 and seeking a formal reply to Lekhis contempt petition. In his affidavit filed in response to the Supreme Courts contempt notice, Gandhi had again expressed regret and undertaken not to attribute any views, observations or findings to the court in political addresses to the media and in public speeches, unless such views, observations or findings are recorded by the court. Accusing Lekhi of dragging the court into a political controversy for personal gains and political mileage, he had requested the top court to dismiss her contempt petition against him at the very threshold. On April 6, the Bench had said it would take up the contempt case against Gandhi along with the Rafale review petitions on May 10. editorial@tribune.com Begusarai (Bihar), May 7 Union minister Giriraj Singh on Tuesday surrendered before a local court in a model code of conduct violation case for making controversial remarks against the Muslim community at an election rally in the state. The firebrand BJP leader surrendered before the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Thakur Aman Kumar here. The CJM granted bail to Singh in the case lodged under relevant sections of the Representation of Peoples Act and the Indian Penal Code. Those who cannot say Vande Mataram or cannot respect the motherland, the nation will never forgive them. My ancestors died at the Simaria Ghat and did not need a grave but you need three handspans of space, he had said in Hindi for making the remarks at a poll meeting in Begusarai on April 24. Besides BJP president Amit Shah, the election meeting was attended by a number of other party leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi. The court also asked Singh to furnish two bail bonds of Rs 5,000 each. The Election Commission had also issued a show-cause notice to the minister for his remarks. The EC said, prima facie, Singh has violated provisions of the model code and directions of the Supreme Court, which had observed that religion cannot be used while making statements during campaigning. The veteran BJP leader is locked in a three-cornered contest with CPI candidate Kanhaiya Kumar and RJDs Tanveer Hasan in the Begusarai Lok Sabha constituency, where voting took place on April 29 in the fourth phase. PTI vinaymishra188@gmail.com Washington, May 7 Former US President Barack Obama made an exceptional use of his race, went out of his way to develop a personal chemistry with Narendra Modi and moved the State of the Union Address to attend the Republic Day parade as chief guest so as to win over the Indian PM on the Paris Climate Change deal, according to his former aide. The tactics deployed by Obama to bring India on board, which was the only major power in his way of the climate deal, was described by his former top personal and national security aide Benjamin Rhodes in a podcast interview. Following the deal by the two biggest emitters, Rhodes said, other countries started announcing their commitments for the agreement. However, the main holdout was India, Rhodes said. We had to move the State of the Union address to go to (India), he said, referring to Obamas visit to India in 2015. He said, Given that India was more important for the US for its Paris pact, his top advisers told him to develop personal rapport with Modi...and advised him that he should accept the invite and go...And Obama did develop a personal rapport with Modi over multiple meetings. It was this personal rapport that helped Obama successfully argue his case with India. Describing the negotiations with Indian officials as an unforgettable experience, Rhodes said, Obama comes around the corner and the Indian negotiators are there before Modi...they start arguing with Obama. The President had no luck, till Modi arrived. Modi told Obama he has 300 million people without electricity. Youre telling me I cant use coal and, and I got to do all these things, the Indian PM said. It was at this moment, Rhodes claimed, Obama brought in his race to convince the PM. Rhodes also claimed Obama told Modi that the US will help India to set up solar power plants. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, May 8 The BJP lodged its protest with the Election Commission on Wednesday over delay in action against the AAP leaders, including its chief Arvind Kejriwal, on complaints of model code of conduct violations. Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta met the EC officials and demanded strict action against the AAP leaders, including gagging them, for the alleged violations. We have lodged complaints with the EC and the Chief Electoral Officer (Delhi) against the AAP leaders with evidence. But no action has been taken which hints an unexpected favour to the AAP by the EC, Gupta said after the meeting. Unless urgent and immediate action is taken, the complaints would become futile. Delay in deciding the complaints or representation would only result in denial of our right to remedies, he said. The Election Commission has a constitutional obligation to ensure free and fair election. It has a duty to take action against violators of poll rules and regulations for conducting the elections in a free and fair manner, it said. The BJP leaders have lodged several complaints of violations of model code of conduct (MCC) against the AAP, relating to alleged misuse of public funds for appeasement politics, paid news, spreading lies against BJP candidate Hans Raj Hans, asking voters to take money from the BJP and Congress but vote for the AAP. The fresh complaint filed by Gupta charged that despite various complaints and multiple representations, no concrete, tangible and substantial action had been taken by the EC. In a democratic set-up like India, the Election Commission is entrusted with the obligation not only to sustain the democratic consciousness among the voters, but also to strengthen it further by taking necessary action on MCC violations, Gupta added. PTI editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Kolkata, May 7 West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, while addressing a meeting at Santura in Purulia district today, attacked Modi saying she feels like giving one tight slap of democracy to the PM. Banerjee said Modi deserved the slap for accusing her party of using extortion money for canvassing. She likened the prime minister to villainous character from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. "When Modi comes to Bengal and says that I am a top extortionist, I wish to give him one tight slap of democracy", Banerjee said and claimed that her party was run with money collected from the sale of her paintings and books. In the absence of Modi, it fell upon the broad shoulders of Amit Shah, who was here, to turn the heat on Mamata. Addressing an election meeting at Ghatal, Shah ridiculed Banerjees assertion that she did not consider Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister. Shah said she should rather prepare herself for another five years with Modi at the helm. Mamatadi (Banerjee) has recently said that she does not consider Modiji the Prime Minister. Tell me, Mamatadi, do you have faith in the country's Constitution or not, Shah asked. The Constitution states that whoever is chosen by the people becomes the PM. It does not matter if you accept him or not, Shah said. Be prepared for another five years as Modi is going to become the Prime Minister once again, shah said amid massive chants of "Modi-Modi" by the BJP supporters. Eight Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal, including Purulia and Bankura, are slated to go to polls on the sixth phase on May 12. BJP, it may be mentioned, did well in Purulia in last years Panchayat elections. On Monday, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Banerjee, top leaders of two rival parties, addressed separate election rallies in Purulia district on Monday but neither of them spent any time criticising the other. Both leaders targeted Modi. Rahul took Mamata Banerjee's name only once when he said she had failed to provide jobs to people. Rest of his address was directed against Modi. If Modi addressed a rally in Maharashtra, he would be found saying that people from UP and Bihar should not come to the state. Similarly, if Modi addressed a rally in Haryana, he would instigate a clash between the Jats and Non-Jats, Rahul said. editorial@tribune.com Bhopal, May 7 Senior Congress leader Suresh Pachouri today dumped loads of documents at former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans residence as a proof that his party has waived loans of 21 lakh farmers after coming to power in December last year. However, Chouhan refuted the Congress claims, dubbing it as a bundle of lies. Former Union minister Pachouri along with state minister PC Sharma and other Congress leaders brought cartons of documents in two vehicles near Chouhans residence. They then put the cartons on their heads and walked to the former chief ministers official residence where they dumped the documents. The Congress claimed these documents proved the Kamal Nath government had acted on the partys pre-poll promise of waiving farm loans. Chouhan was, however, not convinced with the Congress claim. He later rejected the documentary evidence, terming it a bundle of lies. The Congress government is supposed to pay Rs 48,000 crore to farmers, but out of it, it has paid only Rs 13,000 crore to them so far, the senior BJP leader claimed. Before the Assembly polls last year, they promised to waive the farm loans in just 10 days after coming to power. The Congress has betrayed the poor farmers, he alleged. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com Karachi, May 8 Pakistan has arrested 34 Indian fishermen for allegedly violating the countrys territorial waters, nearly 10 days after releasing 60 prisoners from India as a goodwill gesture, officials said on Wednesday. The fishermen, arrested on Tuesday, had been handed over to the police, a Pakistan Maritime Security Agency spokesman said. They will appear before a judicial magistrate who will decide on their judicial remand, he said. This is the first time since January that the maritime security agency has arrested Indian fishermen. In January, five Gujarati boatsmen were arrested and jailed. On April 29, Pakistan released 55 Indian fishermen and five civilians as a goodwill gesture amidst tension between the two countries after the Pulwama terror attack. Last month, the Pakistani government released more than 250 Indian fishermen from the Landhi and Malir jails in Karachi. The fishermen were released in three phases. The Pakistan Foreign Ministry had earlier announced to release 360 Indian fishermen in four separate batches in April as a goodwill gesture. Pakistan and India frequently arrest fishermen as there is no clear demarcation of the maritime border in the Arabian Sea and these fishermen do not have boats equipped with the technology to know their precise location. Owing to the lengthy and slow bureaucratic and legal procedures, the fishermen usually remain in jail for several months and sometimes years. According to the list of prisoners exchanged by India and Pakistan in January, there are 347 Pakistani prisoners in Indian jails, 249 of whom are described as civilians and 98 fishermen, the report said. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com Islamabad, May 8 Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indias Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian security forces along the Line of Control which resulted in the death of three civilians. The Foreign Office (FO) said: The Indian forces along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Working Boundary (WB) are continuously targeting civilian populated areas with heavy weapons. Director General (SA and SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Ahluwalia and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian security forces along the LoC, the FO said. The FO said that on May 2 in Rakhchikri sector along the LoC, a 15-year-old boy was killed and his nine-year-old sister injured. On May 5 in Hotspring and Kotkotera sectors along the LoC, a woman and a 12-year-old boy were killed and a woman injured, it said. This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing from 2017 when the Indian forces committed 1,970 ceasefire violations, it said. PTI gspannu7@gmail.com Bhopal, May 8 BJP chief Amit Shah, flanked by the partys nominee for the Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, Pragya Singh Thakur, held a road show late Wednesday evening, three days ahead of the high-stake elections in the Madhya Pradesh capital. Former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Madhya Pradesh BJP president Rakesh Singh also took part in the road show organised to seek voter support for Thakur. The 49-year-old Hindutva activist, an accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, is taking on Congress veteran Digvijaya Singh in Bhopal, a bastion of the saffron party for the last two decades. The BJP leaders, who were in an open vehicle, started their road show from Peer Gate amid tight police security at around 9 pm, nearly three hours behind the original schedule. The 4.5km road show ended at Nadra Bus stand in the middle of the old city, home to a sizeable Muslim population, at around 9.45 pm. A large number of BJP workers, clad in saffron T- shirts, waved the partys flag as chants of Har Har Modi, Modi Modi and Vande Mataram rented the air. They also shouted Pragya didi sant hai, Diggy tera anth hai (Sister Pragya is a saint and Diggy is staring at his defeat). In the morning, Singh, accompanied by religious leader Computer Baba, held his own road show in which hundreds of white and saffron robed sadhus took part. The sadhus have descended on Bhopal on a call given by Computer Baba. During the road show, they chanted Jai Shri Ram and demanded construction of a Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya at the earliest. Bhopal is among the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that will vote on May 12 in the third phase of elections in the state. PTI editorial@tribune.com Ghatal/Bishnupur/(WB), May 7 BJP president Amit Shah today alleged West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not allowing people to chant Jai Shri Ram in the state, and wondered if the Lords name cannot be taken in India, will it be uttered in Pakistan. Shah also dared Banerjee to arrest him for chanting Jai Shri Ram at the multiple election rallies he addressed in the state today. Lord Ram is a part of the culture of India... Can anybody stop people from taking his name? I want to ask Mamata didi, if Shri Rams name is not taken in India, will it be chanted in Pakistan? he said. He addressed rallies in Ghatal, Keshiari and Bishnupur in West Bengal. Shah claimed that Banerjee had stopped her car a few days ago to tell people that they will be put in jail if they chant the name of Lord Ram. A video had appeared in the social media that showed Banerjee stopping her car at a place in West Midnapore district on Saturday, and chasing some persons who chanted Jai Shri Ram as her cavalcade was crossing the area. Shah said he had come to know that the CM had cancelled permission for two rallies of PM Narendra Modi in the state one at Purulia and the other at Bankura, scheduled for Thursday. Can you (Banerjee) prevent your defeat in this manner? he said. On Modi invoking the Bofors scandal, the BJP president wondered if reminding people what had happened was tantamount to insulting former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. What wrong has PM Narendra Modi done by saying that the Bofors scam happened during Rajiv Gandhis tenure... Rahul baba says his father has been insulted. Is it an insult to be reminded of what had happened? Shah said. The BJP chief was referring to Modis recent remarks at a rally in Uttar Pradesh, where he said Rajiv Gandhis life ended as bhrashtachari No. 1 (corrupt No. 1). Shah also asked Rahul Gandhi whether or not the Bofors scandal, the Bhopal gas tragedy, blunder of sending peacekeeping force to Sri Lanka or the massacre of Kashmiri pandits happened during his fathers tenure as prime minister from 1984 to 1989. He claimed the Congress and its mahagathbandhan partners had abused Modi on 51 different occasions. Shah said Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi recently likened Modi to the character of Duryodhana from the Mahabharata, and asserted people of the country will tell on May 23 whether PM Modi is Duryodhana or Arjuna. PTI rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, May 8 The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to extend the deadline for the finalisation of National Register for Citizens (NRC) in Assam. The court declared that the process must be completed on or before July 31. It said the process could be delayed even by a day. The apex court allowed the coordinator to proceed as per law if objectors did not appear. Earlier, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had criticised the Centre and the Ministry of Home Affairs plea requesting a suspension of the NRC work during the general election. IANS rchopra@tribunemail.com New Delhi, May 8 With polling for two more phases of the Lok Sabha polls left, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said the time for change had come and that time was up for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi claimed that the young and the old are voting in large numbers for NYAY, the Congress Nyuntam Aay Yojana (minimum income guarantee scheme) to eradicate poverty, noting it showed how powerful the idea was. The Congress has announced that under the scheme, the party, if voted to power, would give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent poorest families in the country. Across India, its not just young people who are coming out in large numbers to vote for NYAY; older and experienced voters have also understood how powerful the idea is. Modi Ji, your time is up. The time for change has come, he said on Twitter. The Congress last month had announced Ab Hoga Nyay as its battle cry for the Lok Sabha polls and launched a campaign centred around the theme of justice while alluding to the partys proposed minimum income scheme. PTI vinaymishra188@gmail.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 7 The Supreme Court today rejected a petition by 21 leaders of Opposition parties, seeking further increase in matching of voter verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips with EVM results for the ongoing Lok Sabha poll. The Opposition leaders wanted the top court to review its order directing the EC to match VVPAT slips with the EVM result at five polling booths in each parliamentary constituency. They wanted the top court to increase verification of VVPAT slips to 50 per cent of the EVMs. However, a Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi rejected their review petition, saying, We are not inclined. Several Opposition leaders, including Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu, former Jammu and Kashmir CM Farooq Abdullah and CPIs D Raja, were present in the court for the hearing, which lasted barely a few minutes. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi said the petitioners had asked for 50 per cent random physical verification of VVPAT slips. We can settle for 33 or 25 per cent verification, he said. Senior counsel Kapil Sibal accused the EC of misleading the court. The Opposition leaders had on April 24 moved the court seeking review of its order, saying the increase from 1 to 5 is not a reasonable number and does not lead to satisfaction desired by this court. The petitioners said the increase will not make any substantial difference to the situation that existed prior to the passing of the order. Opposition meets EC New Delhi: Having suffered a setback on the legal front with the Supreme Court rejecting their plea for revision of its verdict on VVPAT slips counting, 21 Opposition party leaders on Tuesday met the Election Commission and pressed for a new norm in case there was any case of mismatch between results of EVM and VVPAT. TNS Chinese national Zhijian Pang and his daughter Zheqi Pang with their banner on Monday on Monday, claiming that JPC had cheated on them. vinaymishra188@gmail.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 7 A day after an in-house inquiry panel gave a clean chit to Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi rejecting allegations of sexual harassment against him, the complainant demanded a copy of the report and women activists and lawyers held protests outside the court. I have a right to the report, the reasons for the same as well as copies of the depositions of any witnesses, any other persons or any other evidence considered, said the dismissed woman employee of the Supreme Court in a letter to Justice SA Bobde, who headed the three-member committee. The report has since been submitted to Justice Arun Mishra number four in seniority. Incidentally, Justice Mishra is also heading a three-judge Bench which had requested retired Justice AK Patnaik to probe allegations of a larger conspiracy to frame CJI Gogoi in a sexual harassment case. The complainants latest salvo came on a day when several women lawyers and activists protested outside the Supreme Court against the clean chit to CJI Gogoi. Many of them were detained by Delhi Police, which had issued prohibitory orders in the area. The in-house inquiry panel had on Monday given a clean chit to the CJI as it found no substance in the allegations of the dismissed woman employee. Citing a top court verdict, it had also said the report was not liable to be made public. However, the woman said if the CJI was being given a copy of the report, directly or indirectly, she was also entitled to it. I find it rather strange that the complainant in a case of sexual harassment is not to be provided with a copy of the report, which finds her complaint to be without substance and that my complaint has been held by the committee to be this without giving me any reasons for the same, she said. Both the parties had the right to receive a copy of the report, she asserted. She said lack of transparency in the functioning of the panel would be a violation of the principles of natural justice. Bar Council of India chairman Manan Mishra, however, backed the in-house inquiry panel, saying there was nothing wrong about the procedure and there should be an end to this unfounded controversy. Mishra said, We should not doubt the decision of our three judges of the committee. Otherwise, it will send a very wrong signal and there shall be no end to such malicious complaints against responsible authorities/persons discharging important functions. vinaymishra188@gmail.com Saurabh Malik Tribune News Service Chandigarh, May 7 A gangrape victim today accused a sitting and a retired Punjab and Haryana High Court judge of helping an accused the allegations being described as grossest contempt by the Bench hearing the matter. The victim, who appeared in person before the Bench of Chief Justice Krishna Murari and Justice Arun Palli, also alleged that her matter was listed before no less than six HC judges from 2012 to 2017 but instead of deciding the cases, they threatened to lodge a contempt of court case against her. She also alleged that her case was transferred to some other court without giving any reason and the accused, with the help of six advocates, had typed all interim orders passed by the HC. Her arguments and three petitions filed in public interest indicated that the accused was acquitted/discharged and her appeal before the order was pending before another Bench. Besides, a contempt case was pending against her. In one of the petitions, she alleged that the sitting judge and the now-retired judge were relatives of the accused. These two judges are approaching other judges in the HC and justice is not being done, she alleged. The victim also alleged that she was confined in the Faridkot jail in a false contempt case where women constables tortured her to strike a compromise in the gangrape case. The senior advocates are threatening me to withdraw appeal against the acquittal of the accused, she added. The Bench, during the hearing, asserted that she had levelled allegations against a sitting judge who had nothing to do with the case and dubbed it a private interest litigation. The Bench added that such matter could be dealt with under the PIL jurisdiction only if the issues involved public at large and the petitioners interest also. Referring to her allegations against senior advocates and judges, the Bench said she had other remedies also under the CrPC. Have you tried lodging an FIR? the Bench questioned. You say you are not getting justice in the High Court. Who drafted the petition? You have not drafted it Whatever you have suffered, we may have full sympathy with you, but as judges we are bound by law, it said, adding that efforts would be made to ensure that her cases were decided as early as possible and asked her to come the next morning and take the order. editorial@tribune.com Tribune News Service Sangrur/New Delhi, May 7 After his resignation from all party posts last year due to differences with SAD chief Sukhbir Badal, rebel party leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa today, for the first time, sought votes for the BJP and its alliance partners. He said if the NDA again formed the government at the Centre, the Punjab and Punjabis would gain the most. He said since the BJP had taken numerous steps for the welfare of Sikhs, both the BJP and its alliance partners deserved votes. The BJP has ended blacklist of Sikhs, is opening Kartarpur corridor and has been taking all required steps to punish the perpetrator of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. It deserves votes and I appeal to all country residents to vote for the BJP and its alliance partners, said Dhindsa, while talking to The Tribune over the phone. Addressing a press conference in Delhi today, Dhindsa, former MP Tarlochan Singh and DSGMC president Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the Narendra Modi government had given much-needed relief to the Sikhs by constituting an SIT for probing the 1984 anti-Sikh riots due to which main culprit Sajjan Kumar and others, including Naresh Sehrawat, were now behind bars. They said the SIT had reopened a case of senior Congress leader Jagdish Tytler, who was given a clean chit earlier. Now he was also facing cases. They said for the last 33 years, the Sikhs had been awaiting justice in the worst-ever riots case and the NDA government, led by Narinder Modi, had done the job. The Sikh leaders said the decision to open the Kartarpur Sahib corridor had won the hearts of the Sikh community as for the last 70 years they were having darshan of Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib with binoculars only and now the sangat would be able to have proper darshan after the completion of the corridor. They said apart from this, the decision of celebrating the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak throughout the world had been lauded by Sikhs. The NDA government celebrated the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh and Baba Banda Singh Bahadur. The SAD leaders said waiving the GST on langar was also a historic decision taken by the NDA government. They said abolishing blacklist was a very big decision for which Sikhs had been struggling for a long time. They said with the implementation of the decision, Sikhs settled abroad on asylum basis could now visit their homes. vinaymishra188@gmail.com Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 7 The Enforcement Directorate has issued a provisional order under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to attach cash worth Rs 89.68 lakh in a money-laundering case involving the nephew of Congress Chandigarh candidate and former railway minister Pawan Kumar Bansal. The agency said it has issued the order to freeze the bribe money, which, according to it, was proceeds of crime. The cash was allegedly seized by the CBI from the office of Bansals nephew Vijay Singla in 2013 in a bribery and corruption case related to appointments at top positions in the Railways. Later, the ED filed a separate criminal case based on the CBI FIR and the chargesheet against Railway Board Member (Staff) Mahesh Kumar, Vijay Singla, Sandeep Goyal and seven others. ED officials said CBI investigations revealed that Mahesh Kumar, a 1975-batch officer of Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers, was posted as General Manager, Western Railways, and he wanted to get himself appointed Member (Electrical), Railway Board instead of Member (Staff). For this, he was in touch with N Manjunath, who was further in touch with Sandeep Goyal, a friend of Singla. Singla demanded Rs 10 crore through Sandeep from Manjunath to get Mahesh posted as Member (Electrical), an ED official said, quoting the CBI probe. The officials said while the token amount was being delivered to Singla and Goyal, the CBI team raided Singlas office at Sector 28 in Chandigarh and seized Rs 89.68 lakh. During that time, Bansal was the railway minister and his nephew Vijay Singla was allegedly caught red-handed while accepting Rs 89.68 lakh as bribe, they said. Our own probe dug out details of the alleged bribery case. It revealed Manjunath, on behalf of Mahesh, was persuading various railway vendors, manufacturers, contractors for making arrangement of bribe money for Maheshs promotion, the officials said. Assets of Delhi ministers brother seized editorial@tribune.com Roopinder Singh Tribune News Service Chandigarh, May 7 A gentle presence of firm convictions Dr Kirpal Singh is no more. He was 95. He spent most of his life researching Partition which tore him away from the land of his birth, Gujranwala, now in Pakistan and the history of Punjab. The scholar was working till virtually the last, not surprising for someone who had spent a lifetime immersed in research. Born in 1924, Kirpal Singh earned his BA (Honours) in History from Punjab University, Lahore, and MA (History) from Delhi University. His PhD from Panjab University, Chandigarh, was on the partition of Punjab. He initially worked in Delhi but soon shifted to Amritsar, where he spent 15 years of his initial academic career at Khalsa College, which he joined in 1950. Focusing on Sikh historical research, he succeeded Dr Ganda Singh who had left the college. He thus had big shoes to fill, but rose to the occasion rather well. While at Khalsa College, Dr Kirpal Singh was nominated a member of the Indian Historical Records Commission, and his knowledge of Persian gave meaning to many documents in the archives of the college library. In 1962, with Chief Minister Partap Singh Kairons help, he went to England to research on Partition and Punjab. Kirpal Singh interviewed a virtual whos who of the architects of Partition and returned with extensive documentation. He wrote extensively on the subject. He was later to join the Department of Punjab Historical Studies, Punjabi University, Patiala. After a long and distinguished service, he retired as Professor and Head of the Department of Punjab Historical Studies. While at Patiala, he also founded the Oral History Department in the university. The author of an estimated 50 books was hit hard by the death of his wife Joginder Kaur in August 2018. A schoolteacher, she was a significant source of strength to him. His two sons and a daughter survive him. The books written by the scholar include Janamsakhi Tradition: An Analytical Study, Perspectives on Sikh Gurus, The Sikhs and Transfer of Power, and Hardinge Papers Relating to Punjab. Among his many professional accomplishments was his long association with the Asiatic Society, Kolkata, as member of its Governing Council (1992-97) and as Secretary, History and Archaeology (1995-97). He was also member of the Government of Indias Historical Record Commission. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee recognised his outstanding contribution to Sikh history, as did Akal Takht, which gave him the title of National Professor of Sikhism in 2014. The same year, a festschrift in his honour, entitled Punjab Revisited: Social Order, Economic Life, Cultural Articulation, Politics, and Partition, was released by Punjabi University, Patiala. An unseemly controversy regarding history textbooks in Punjab last year only increased his determination to finish his work on editing Sri Gur Partap Suraj Granth, magnum opus of Bhai Santokh Singh. Even as tributes pour in, the feeling that the gap left by someone whose name was often mentioned in the same breath as the late Dr Ganda Singh and Dr Fauja Singh will be hard to fill. Yet, we have his considerable body of work to lean on. The scholars work will outlive him, as it should. amansharma@tribunemail.com Nikhil Bhardwaj Tribune News Service Ludhiana, May 8 Five schoolchildren of GRD Academy had a miraculous escape after the bus they were travelling in caught fire when it came in contact of overhead power cables at Saroop Nagar, Salem Tabri, here. Children were immediately rescued by shopkeepers, while the bus driver and a conductor escaped with minor burns. Children were living in the same locality where the incident occurred. The incident occurred around 3 pm when the bus was on way to drop children. As power cables were hanging low, they came in contact of the bus roof and within seconds fire engulfed the bus. Area people alleged that they had already complained to the PSPCL department about the hanging power cables but no official took immediate action due to which this incident occurred. The police have launched a probe in the case. shriaya.dutt@tribuneindia.com MELBOURNE Majority of Australians rate climate change as a bigger threat to the country's interest compared to global terrorism, a study has found. Almost 64 per cent of Australians have called climate change as 'a critical threat' an increase of six points from 2018 and 18 points since 2014, according to a poll by Lowy Insititute on Australian attitudes on Climate change. ''Six in 10 Australians have said that 'global warming is a serious and pressing problem and we should begin taking steps now even if this involves significant costs,' continuing the dramatic reversal of attitudes since 2012," researchers said. Climate change topped the chart of a dozen possible threats to Australia's vital interests in the next ten years. Other issues were Cyberattacks from other countries with 62 per cent seeing it as a threat apart from international terrorism (61 per cent) and North Korea's nuclear programme (60 per cent). The poll also confirmed Australians were more concerned about climate change this election than at any time. The poll was conducted for four days from March 12, both over the phone and online, and drew the results from a sample of 2,130 Australian adults. This year 61 per cent of voters said climate change was so serious and pressing we should address it now, even if was expensive. Only 28 per cent of people said climate change should be dealt with gradually, and 10 per cent said we should not act on climate change until we are "sure it's a problem" the lowest numbers since 2006 and 2008, respectively. PTI harinder@tribunemail.com NEW DELHI, May 7 (PTI, UNI) The Home Minister, Mr. Y.B. Chavan, today described as very dangerous the emergence of an extremist Communist Party believing in the theory of armed insurrection. He said it was enough to meet these anti-national forces merely on the ideological basis. Mr. Asit Sen, who presided over the meeting, was reported to have said only the Chinese Communist Party could give a lead for the emancipation of the oppressed throughout the world and that revolutionaries in India would take a cue from China and her leader, Mao Tsetung, Mr. Chavan said. He was making a statement in the Rajya Sabha in response to a call-attention notice by Mr. M.K. Mohata and others on the formation of a new Communist Party of India based no Maos ideas under the leadership of Naxalite leader Knu Sanyal on May 1. He said the Central Government was alive to the implications of the extremist activities, which had reached a new stage with the formation of a new party. monicakchauhan@gmail.com Islamabad, May 8 Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman who was acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court in a blasphemy row last year, has left the country and reached Canada, according to media reports on Wednesday. The 47-year-old mother of four was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. "Aasia Bibi has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will," a source in the foreign office was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. Bibi's counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that the woman has reached Canada, the Express Tribune reported. The Supreme Court had on October 31 last year acquitted her of blasphemy charges. The judgement triggered protests across Pakistan with protestors led by Islamic political party Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other groups blocking major highways and roads in different parts of the country. PTI ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Tribune News Service New Delhi, May 7 Indias opinion may count when the US reveals its peace proposal on the Israel-Palestinian issue, according to David Newman, a professor from Ben Gurion University of the Negev. Pointing out that the US peace proposal conceived by US President Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner is wrapped in secrecy, but selectively leaked, Prof Newman was of the opinion that Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be mindful of the opinion of two of his close associates in the region Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian PM Narendra Modi. Speaking at a seminar organised by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) today, Prof Newman felt any peace proposal would face strident opposition because views have become polarised due to the absence of negotiations for over five years. The question being asked is will Netanyahu respond given that Trump has given him nice presents such as recognising Jerusalem as the capital and Golan Heights as Israeli territory. But even if Russia and India sided with the Kushner peace plan, there is a big question mark on whether Netanyahu will yield ground. He could use the likely opposition from extreme right and religious parties in his coalition to buffer him from accepting the proposal, he said. Official sources here believe that PM Modi has positioned India as a factor in the Israel-Palestinian peace process by dealing separately with each piece on the West Asian chess board. ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Yangon, May 7 Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after they were convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act walked free from prison on Tuesday after more than 500 days behind bars. Wa Lone (33) and Kyaw Soe Oo (29) had been convicted in September and sentenced to seven years in jail in a case that raised questions about Myanmars progress towards democracy and sparked an outcry from diplomats and human rights advocates. They were released under a presidential amnesty for 6,520 prisoners. President Win Myint has pardoned thousands of other prisoners in mass amnesties since last month. It is customary in Myanmar for authorities to free prisoners across the country around the time of the traditional New Year, which began on April 17. Reuters has said the two men did not commit any crime and had called for their release. Swamped by media and well-wishers as they walked through the gates of Insein Prison, on the outskirts of Yangon, grinning Wa Lone gave a thumbs up and said he was grateful for the international efforts to secure their freedom. Im really happy and excited to see my family and my colleagues. I cant wait to go to my newsroom, he said. Kyaw Soe Oo smiled and waved to reporters. The two were then driven away by Reuters colleagues and reunited with their wives and children. Before their arrest in December 2017, they had been working on an investigation into the killings of 10 Rohingya Muslim men and boys by security forces and Buddhist civilians in western Myanmars Rakhine state during an army crackdown that began in August 2017. The operation sent more than 7,30,000 Rohingya fleeing to Bangladesh, according to UN estimates. The report the two men authored, featuring testimony from perpetrators, witnesses and families of the victims, was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for international reporting in May, adding to a number of accolades received by the pair for their journalism. Government spokesman Zaw Htay said the decision to release the two was made after the families wrote to government leader Aung San Suu Kyi. We took the letters into consideration and released them in the interest of the country, Zaw Htay told reporters. Reuters Editor-in-Chief Stephen J Adler welcomed the news. We are enormously pleased that Myanmar has released our courageous reporters, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo. Since their arrests 511 days ago, they have become symbols of the importance of press freedom around the world. We welcome their return, Adler said. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was relieved to learn of the release, a spokesman said. The United Nations in Myanmar said it saw the release as a sign of the governments commitment to the transition to democracy. The US Embassy also welcomed the release and said it was glad the two could return to their families. Reuters Cant wait to go to my newsroom Im really happy and excited to see my family and my colleagues. I cant wait to go to my newsroom. I am a journalist and I am going to continue Wa Lone, Journalist monicakchauhan@gmail.com Lahore, May 8 Pakistan's deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif has returned to prison to serve his sentence in a corruption case after the end of his six-week bail which was granted to him on medical grounds. On March 26, the Supreme Court suspended Sharif's seven-year sentence in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case and granted him bail for six weeks with a condition that he would not leave Pakistan. Last month, the 69-year-old three-time prime minister sought the apex court's permission to go abroad for medical treatment. However, the permission was not granted. On Tuesday, Sharif left his Jati Umra residence here for the Kot Lakhpat Jail with a procession of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) workers led by his daughter Maryam. Maryam and his nephew Hamza Shehbaz along with hundreds of PML-N workers accompanied him. The supporters gathered outside Sharif's Jati Umra residence and accompanied him to jail. The procession took four hours to reach the Kot Lakhpat Jail, which is otherwise just 30 minutes away. The bail expired on Tuesday midnight (May 7) with the apex court rejecting his review petition, seeking permission to go London for further treatment. After reaching jail, Sharif thanked his party workers for turning up in large numbers. "I do not have words to thank the workers who turned up in thousands to express solidarity. It is midnight but the workers are still here with me. It is an amazing scene," he said in a message. Ring road .... jam packed. pic.twitter.com/2CvPpnQRRn Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) May 7, 2019 The massive support for the PML-N leader included a large number of party workers from different parts of Punjab province who turned up for the rally en-route to the jail. Sharif's daughter Maryam accompanied her father in his car and posted images online of the reception their entourage got form the public. "The roads to the jail from Jati Umra were jampacked. Only heads and long queues of motorists," Maryam tweeted. Amidst sloganeering in support of Sharif, party workers were seen showering rose petals at his car. "The people know why I am being punished. What sin I have committed... they know. But I am optimistic that soon the black night of this oppression will end and I will get released from jail," Sharif said. Though Sharif was to reach jail before midnight, he reported half-an-hour late. The Punjab Home Department directed the jail authorities to receive Sharif and shift him to the barrack, officials said. He was imprisoned in Adiyala Jail and shifted to Kot Lakhpat Jail on request. Sharif has been serving a seven-year prison term at the jail since December 24, 2018 when an accountability court convicted him in one of the three corruption cases filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in Panama Papers case. Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing and allege that the corruption cases against them were politically motivated. PTI ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM Istanbul, May 7 Turkeys top election body ordered a re-run of Istanbuls mayoral election on Monday after the party of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan complained about its shock defeat in the vote, the state news agency reported. The winner of the election, Ekrem Imamoglu of the main opposition Republican Peoples Party (CHP), said it was a treacherous decision and vowed to fight on. They are trying to take back the election we won. Maybe you are upset but never lose your hope, he told thousands of supporters in central Istanbul following the ruling. Imamoglu narrowly defeated the candidate of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in the March 31 local elections to take control of Turkeys biggest city. It was a rare electoral defeat for Erdogan, himself a former mayor of the city, which has been in the hands of the AKP and its predecessors for 25 years. But the AKP has refused to accept defeat, saying there were irregularities and corruption in the vote. Imamoglu won by just 13,000 votes, but was confirmed after two weeks of recounts in April. The soft-spoken former district mayor had vowed to heal political divisions and reach across party lines. But Istanbul, with 16 million residents, is Turkeys economic engine and controls a major chunk of public spending. AFP ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM lahore, May 7 Seventeen people, including 13 Chinese nationals, have been arrested in Pakistan for their alleged involvement in smuggling young Pakistani girls to China after luring them into fake marriages and then into forced prostitution. The Federal Investigating Agency (FIA) arrested seven people, including three Chinese nationals, on Tuesday who were part of a human trafficking gang. The FIA Rawalpindi arrested the gang led by Chinese national Song Chuaoyang who was also arrested, Geo News reported. Deputy Director FIA Kamran Ali said the Chinese nationals were involved in fake marriages with Pakistani girls and later used them for prostitution and organ removal. On Monday, at least 10 Chinese nationals, including a woman, were arrested in Pakistan for allegedly luring young Pakistani girls into fake marriages then forcing them into prostitution in China. The FIA arrested eight Chinese nationals, including a woman, on Monday, after two other Chinese nationals were arrested during a marriage ceremony in Fasialabad, about 150 km from Lahore, last week. On Monday, we arrested seven Chinese men and a Chinese woman for their alleged involvement in trafficking of Pakistani girls to China for the purpose of prostitution, FIA Punjab Director Tariq Rustam said. The FIA swung into action following reports of Chinese nationals involvement in organ trade and forced prostitution of Pakistani girls, mostly from the minority Christian community, after marrying them and taking them to China. PTI REFERENCING Charles Dickens A Tale of Two Cities in his Christmas message to the nation yesterday, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley called for peoplevaccinated and unvaccinatedto acknowledge not only their personal rights but also a duty to care for others. He noted the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the world as he called for a renewal of humanitarian values. FORMER trade unionist, political activist David Abdulah, said in a recent media statement that we ought to treat the mounting Covid-19 dead in a much better way. He suggested their names be elevated from the floor of mere statistics, and that each one of their stories should include their faces and mention of the families from which they came, and the members of those families left behind. Once again, Kenya has been forced to take a deeper look into the Naivasha fault lines. Just like April 2018, another bigger fault line has left residents worried. The 2km fault line has left 16 families displaced and is now threatening the stability of the SGR and the threat of Kenya splitting from Africa. Image: facebook.com, @Normalgene Mahewa Source: UGC Kenya has one of the most scenic views with the stretch of Rift Valley that dissects the country. In the rift valley, there are numerous lakes and mountains formed years after the great fault line was caused. In the heart of this geographical phenomenon is Naivasha, a town in Nakuru County where the same Rift Valley causing tremors and fault lines are popping up. Dubbed the Naivasha fault lines, these cracks in the ground have displaced families and destroyed farms. This is the second time in two years that these lines have been a national concern. But just what are Naivasha fault lines? Are they set to happen more frequently? And if they are indeed causing cracks in the ground, is Kenya headed for a split from the African continent? Naivasha fault lines The Moi Ndabi area in Naivasha is the most recent instance of the Naivasha fault lines that left families displaced amidst the ongoing heavy downpour. The crack, which started from the southern part that borders Lake Naivasha, spread rapidly, catching the residents unaware and causing irrevocable damage in its path. It however, remains unclear whether the fault line resulted from geological phenomenon witnessed in parts of the riftvalley or not. Nonetheless, the crack did not just magically appear. Speaking to the Standard Digital, a resident confirmed that the lines had been slowly appearing in the past two weeks and then they continued to widen gradually. The climax was the 2kms one that has disrupted the residents way of life and forced them to consider relocation. This is however unrelated to the earth tremor experienced in parts of the country, including Naivasha. Naivasha got hit along the Naivasha - Mai Mahiu road, causing cracks on a bridge near the Fai Amario factory. READ ALSO: Fear grips Elgeyo Marakwet residents as earth cracks rip through villages A history of fault lines in Naivasha It is prudent for you to know the the history of the Naivasha fault lines, so as to gain perspective of current happenings in the town. Last year, along the Mai Mahiu-Narok there was another giant crack running 65 feet wide and 50 feet deep in some parts. The crack affected a major road but it has since been made usable again. On 15th April 2018, Moi Ndabi in Nakuru County had a fault line after the heavy downpour that was witnessed in the area. In this particular occurrence, 16 families were forced to move to higher, and therefore safer grounds. The fissure destroyed acres of wheat, beans, irish potatoes and maize. It also affected farms and homes between Tangi Tatu village and Kipkonyo Primary school. This fault line caused a section of the Marmanet River to change its course. Following the scare the residents witnessed, geologists from Nakuru were requested to go and investigate the cause of the Naivasha fault lines that threatened a Kenya earth spilt. On 17th April an inspection team that comprised of several engineers visited the site to take a look. The results of the findings were not published publicly. What causes fault lines? There are three major types of faults according to Geography lessons; normal faults, reverse faults, and strike-slip faults that are named depending on the direction one rock moves in regards to the other when stressed. The line of separation is called a fault line and it is the one that is visible on the ground such as the Naivasha fault lines. The recent giant crack in Kenya was suspected to be caused by a geographical phenomenon, the heavy rains, or volcanic forces. The first would be from the stressing between the rock plates and the second a weather issue. It is critical to note that Naivasha is home to Mt Longonot, a volcanic mountain and also Lake Naivasha, a fresh water lake. A proposed theory is that the Kenya earth split threatening fault line was caused when the heavy rains exposed an existing crack. The crack could have been covered by volcanic ash from Mt Longonot and exposed when the rains washed the ash away. It may have been a gradual process, which explains why they only appear when there are heavy rains. Kenya Rift Valley cracks A basic understanding still does not explain why Naivasha has experienced the fault lines more than any other part in Kenya, and the answer is in its location. Naivasha is located in the Great Rift Valley, that stretches from the Middle East to Mozambique which was formed millions of years ago. A rift valley is formed when two tectonic plates move apart, exposing a section of the earth which shifts downwards and forms a valley along the fault lines. However, it is not usually one major rift as it can comprise of a thousand small ones in the same direction. It is these smaller fault lines that are showing up in Naivasha and forming their own little 2km valleys. The process is said to continue for a while which leads to the elephant in the room; is it true that Kenya will eventually split? READ ALSO: Kenya travel advice for foreigners: Things you must know before travelling Is it true that Kenya will eventually split? The simple answer is yes. Yes, Kenya will eventually split if the shifts in the tectonic plates continue to widen and the Naivasha fault lines are right in the middle of it. But no, the process is estimated to take about 50 million years so it is safe to assume you and 10 generations might still live in Kenya as we know it. Also, Kenya is unlikely to split into two along the Naivasha fault lines as the tectonic plates (Nubian and Somalia) are not along the Naivasha line. The more detailed answer is an explanation on the two tectonic plates that will cause this drastic rift. There is the Nubian plate in the west that comprises most of Africa, and the small portion along the African east coast Somali plate that are moving away from each other. Eventually, the Somali plate will break off from the larger Nubian plate and from a small Madagascar-like shape in the Indian Ocean. This will result to the African continent splitting, but in around 50 million years. Is relocation the answer? Residents that have been affected by the Naivasha fault lines are faced with the difficult choice of whether to leave the only home they have known and relocate to safer grounds. The dilemma is even more confusing considering the two major Naivasha fault lines occurrences recorded only happened in during the heavy rain season (April 2018 and April 2019). READ ALSO: Earthquake in Kenya: Naivasha-Mai Mahiu highway closed for motorists following 4.8 magnitude quake Farmers are also heavily invested in the area that houses schools and villages. Relocation is not a very appealing idea. Nonetheless, without advice from experts who insist that continuing to live there is an active and immediate danger threat, it is unlikely that the locals will uproot their lives. It remains to be seen what the official report from an investigative team uncovers, what the residents will do with the information and what part the government will play, if any. Image: facebook.com, @Kelvin Onyancha Source: UGC Threat to the SGR In 2018, when Naivasha fault lines were reported there was the concern that underlying fault lines would threaten the construction of the SGR Nairobi-Naivasha section. With the first phase of the project complete (Mombasa to Nairobi), the second phase to Naivasha has just began when the fault lines appeared. However, this threat was dismissed by Steve Zhao, the Kenya SGR Head Office spokesperson. He insisted that the railway was safe and the construction was set to continue despite the warnings by geologists concerning underground fault lines. To combat this, the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) undertaking the project constructed culverts every 500 meters. This would help in drainage as they continued to monitor flooding along the line. Consequently, the recent Moi Ndabi Naivasha fault line should not be a problem. The Naivasha fault lines are a point of concern in as far as the damage to crops and the displacement of families is concerned. Rocking the survival means of a county that is agriculturally sufficient may affect the economic state of the nation. However, in terms of Kenya splitting into two, or splitting from Africa, the Naivasha fault lines are not an immediate threat. Ultimately, more information from the experts might help make better decisions in terms of infrastructure development and agricultural decisions. READ ALSO: Anxiety as strange gullies emerge in Naivasha Famous Ohangla dancer killed by floods while trying to rescue her children Met department tells Kenyans to expect heavy rainfall in parts of the country Another fault line sparks fears in Naivasha as it cuts through farms Source: TUKO.co.ke Patricia Wallwork was an attorney for a national law firm in Birmingham, Alabama, before diving headfirst into her parents beverage company, Milos Tea Co. For eight years, she went on sales calls, rode route trucks and familiarized herself with corporate and plant operations. In 2012, I went to my family and said I want the shot to run this, Wallwork said. Dad and Mom agreed. Now the CEO is bringing that expertise and her company to Tulsa, which is the beneficiary of Milos first major expansion, a $60 million investment. Officials are expected to break ground Wednesday on its new production facility in Cherokee Extension Industrial Park in Tulsa County, just east of the Macys Fulfillment Center. When we came to Tulsa, it was very evident through working with the (Tulsa Regional) Chamber, working with the mayor and his office that this could be our second home, Wallwork said during an interview Tuesday at the Tulsa World. From the philanthropic community to, from really feeling welcome, they wanted to work with us to help us figure this out. We really felt like we could come here and be part of the community. During the construction phase, the companys capital investment will support an additional $35.5 million in income earned by construction and supply vendors, the chamber estimates. This is what it looks like when we work as a region to compete to bring the best companies in the world to the Tulsa region, Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum said. Milos started in 1946 as a hamburger joint in Birmingham, Alabama, headed by Wallworks grandparents, Milo and Beatrice Carlton, who would serve customers tea to wash down their meals. The family cashed in on the popularity of their tea by placing the refrigerated beverages in grocery stores in 1989, selling what had become a chain of restaurants in 2002 and concentrating on Milos Tea exclusively. Now sold in 45 states, the company went nationwide in 2014, including to Oklahoma, where sales have tripled since then. We represent better-for-you beverages that are made with real ingredients that all of you have in your kitchens, Wallwork said. We never add preservatives. That is who we are. Milos spent about three years researching sites before deciding on the Tulsa area. Several trends guiding the energy industry seem to be setting a path toward modernizing infrastructure and increasing the use of renewable resources to provide power. These trends include a reduction in costs for certain technologies, the onset of data analytics, the threat of physical and cyber attacks on infrastructure, and the increasing demand for and supply of renewable energy sources. The energy industry is in the midst of a transformation, and we are prepared at PSO to meet that challenge, said Peggy Simmons, president and chief operating officer of Public Service Company of Oklahoma. Simmons shared where she believes the industry is heading at a Friends of Finance luncheon Wednesday at the University of Tulsa. One of the biggest changes on the horizon is the energy mix that is used to provide power to customers. The reliance on coal has started to wane as more power is generated from natural gas and renewable sources. Currently, about 22% of the power provided by PSO comes from natural gas, 22% from renewables and 17% from coal. The rest is purchased from the marketplace, and a growing percentage of marketplace energy is made up of renewables. In mid-April, a volunteer effort was coordinated in the Grandview, Lakeview and Twin Oaks neighborhoods of Fort Gibson Lake to spruce things up in conjunction with the Great American Cleanup campaign. Jerry Haner, who coordinated the Grandview clean-up, said approximately 35 volunteers in the three neighborhoods, plus dozens of area homeowners who also live in the Rocky Point and Snug Harbor areas participated in the project. Marianne Hauer, Barbe Boston and Greg Thompson organized the Lakeview and Twin Oaks cleanups. We had a wonderful turnout! Haner exclaimed. I would like to thank County Commissioner Chris Edwards for the dumpsters located across from Whitehorn Cove fire department, and also for placing one across from the Rocky Point store. Commissioner Edwards has been a leading force in helping us clean up our areas out here at Fort Gibson Lake. Haner also applauded the Great American Cleanup organization for supplying trash bags, vests, gloves, bottled water and T-shirts for volunteers. Though they owned two CherryBerry frozen yogurt locations, Autumn and Kevin Gall had an idea for an ice cream shop they wanted to pursue. One of the CherryBerry stores was in Owasso and the other off busy Hillside Drive in Broken Arrow. When our lease was up on the Hillside store (at the end of last year), we decided to close it and open this concept ourselves, Kevin Gall said. We still have the CherryBerry in Owasso. The concept they opened this spring is called Scoops & Rolls Creamery, located in the Rose District on Main Street in downtown Broken Arrow. The Galls said business has been good, and they expect big crowds when the 88th Rooster Days Festival celebration unfolds Thursday through Sunday, May 9-12, in the Rose District. Scoops & Rolls offers traditional ice cream scooped out of containers, as well as rolled ice cream. Rolled ice cream is a preparation imported primarily from southeast Asia. An ice cream mixture containing flavorings and add-ins, such as fruit, is poured over a cold surface, then scraped and rolled, with the result looking something like a bale of hay. Toppings usually are added, too. Big Whiskeys American Restaurant & Bar, a chain restaurant featuring classic American fare and signature whiskey cocktails, is coming to Tulsa. Tulsa businessman Sean Sylvester signed a franchise agreement in March to place two Big Whiskey restaurants in Oklahoma, according to a news release. The Tulsa store is scheduled to open later this year, though a location has not been announced. The Big Whiskeys brand really stood out to me, Sylvester said. Its catchy but original, and their product speaks for itself. It will be a welcome addition to our restaurant landscape in Tulsa. The Big Whiskeys Tulsa menu will feature such dishes as fried wontons filled with buffalo chicken dip; a barbecue burger topped with onion rings, bacon and Honey Whiskey barbecue sauce; and the signature chicken ranch alfredo pasta, which includes penne noodles smothered in alfredo sauce and topped with grilled chicken. The restaurant has more than 100 whiskeys, bourbons and scotches and features multiple signature whiskey cocktails, in addition to whiskey on tap. By the end of the year, Big Whiskey will have 14 restaurants scattered over Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Nevada and Alabama. It was founded in Springfield, Missouri, almost 13 years ago. Jacob Tovar has been selected the winner of the Hop Jams Awesome Music Opening Band Contest and will christen Hop Jam 2019 with a Main Stage performance Sunday, May 19. Hop Jam, Oklahomas biggest craft beer and music festival, is returning to the Tulsa Arts District for a sixth consecutive year. The event was founded by Tulsa-based music trio Hanson, which is headlining the 2019 festival. It was previously announced that other Main Stage performers will be Phantom Planet, The Weeks, Wilderado and Joshua & The Holy Rollers, a band featuring Mac Hanson, younger brother to the members of Hanson. Per tradition, the opening spot in the Main Stage lineup is reserved for the winner of the opening band contest, which came about as a result of a partnership between Hop Jam and the Tulsa World. Artists from Oklahoma were eligible for the contest. Tovar, a country music artist and honky tonk crooner, grew up in western Oklahoma, but is based in Tulsa. Hop Jam selected finalists for the opening band contest and fans had until May 3 to cast votes. Runners-up in the contest will play on the Park Stage. Among past winners are The Brothers Moore, Count Tutu, RVRB and All About a Bubble. As with all the candidate streets that come up, were going to have to evaluate the impact of doing that project against the overall investment in the street network, City Engineer Paul Zachary said after the meeting. Those who chose to ask questions about something other than streets more often than not wanted to know what the city was doing to improve life for bicyclists and pedestrians. Thats what Mitch Drummond, chairman of the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, was there to learn about. Drummond said after the meeting that he was glad to hear that the Improve Our Tulsa renewal calls for $5 million in bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. But he would like to see more. Honestly, I would like to see 10 percent of the transportation (funding) spent on alternative forms of transportation, Drummond said. Tulsa has about 8.5 percent of our workforce that dont own a car or dont have a car in their household. So how do those people who have jobs get to work? If it is convenient for them to get to employment places, then they can have better opportunities for employment. What the rules say State law bans lobbyists and the companies or groups employing them from making or promising to make campaign contributions to legislators or legislative candidates from the first Monday in February until five days after the end of the regular legislative session. Hendershot, by far the largest donor during the first two months of the legislative session, donated personal funds rather than going through his lobbyists. He declined to comment for this article. More than 100 individuals and many political action committees donated to lawmakers during the same period. The prohibition doesnt apply to many PACs, as long as they dont employ a registered lobbyist. Gov. Kevin Stitt and other statewide elected officials are permitted to fundraise during the legislative session. David Keating, president of the Institute for Free Speech, said there are good reasons for states not to add restrictions to who can donate during legislative sessions. The government has to have a good reason for a ban, he said. And to me, it would seem that this would infringe on our constitutional right to associate with and support a candidate. Two young Owasso men who were in a fatal head-on collision on Interstate 40 in Texas were under investigation in a series of incidents in Tulsa and Owasso in the days before the crash. Jacob Frogge, 18, was one of two killed in the crash near McLean, Texas, about 1 a.m. Monday, and Collin Lovelace, 18, was taken to Northwest Texas Hospital with life-threatening injuries. The two men had several run-ins with Tulsa and Owasso police over the weekend before the crash, according to authorities. On Saturday morning, Owasso police assisted Tulsa officers in locating a suspect vehicle in an injury hit-and-run crash. Officers found the vehicle, along with Lovelace and Frogge, at the Three Lakes apartment complex near the 11600 block of East 83rd Street North. Lovelace was alleged to have been the driver involved, and both men were detained until Tulsa police officers arrived. I want those kids to get an education, she said. The passion was instilled in her by her father, who promoted education as something nobody could ever take away from you. But while the cause is the same, at least one thing had to change: Metevelis no longer dresses in her Rosie coveralls the actual ones she wore on the job for public appearances, she said. Its a matter of comfort, she explained: Ive shrunk. I used to be 5-foot-1. Now, Im 4-foot-10, and the crotch is between my knees. But she takes the coveralls along with her. I hold them up so people can take pictures. They just cant get over it that they are 72 years old, she said. How long will she keep doing fundraisers? As long as I can stand up, said Metevelis, who still drives her own car. Ive tried to cut back, but I keep getting calls. While it continues, she will meet the demand with her trademark sense of humor. Nateetong pointed to his hat while outside one of the facilities that came from a Goodwill store somewhere along the route, he said. People asked about his socks, shoes and whether he needed water. He politely declined. I admire you so much, someone said along the route. He was east of downtown Tulsa before noon. Nateetong, a Thai national, offered a blessing to local residents during his lunch break at My Thai restaurant. He started his journey in March in Santa Monica, California, averaging about 30 miles per day. Motorists gave him a wide berth, trying not to splash him. People waved and honked. Some stopped to have pictures taken with him. Nateetong has developed a support network along the way among other Buddhists and Route 66 devotees. He has an assistant accompanying him along the way, tailing quietly in a pickup truck. Nateetong sought refuge Tuesday night at the Chua Tam Bao Buddhist Temple, 16833 E. 21st St., he said. He selected Route 66, in part, because of its historical status. He called it the mother of the roads in USA. Gerhart does not claim to have witnessed either incident himself. There is nothing from this blogger that has ever rated a response from me. This time included, Kannady said by email when asked for a comment. House of Representatives spokesman Jason Sutton said Oklahoma City labor attorney Courtney Warmington has been hired to look into the matter. Warmington also was involved in a 2017 House investigation into sexual harassment charges against then-Rep. Dan Kirby and a $44,000 settlement paid to a former House employee. That investigation did not find Kirby guilty of sexual harassment but did recommend his expulsion from the House, in part because of an improper relationship with the employee. Kirby resigned instead. A persistent critic of the Legislature, Gerhart was charged with attempted blackmail and violation of the Computer Crimes Act over a 2013 email in which he told then-Sen. Cliff Branan he would dig into your past, (your) family, your associates and once we start on you there will be no end to it unless Branan brought a certain bill to a vote in committee. Gerhart lost at trial but won a reversal on appeal. Letter: Amy Jeschawitz for Williamstown Planning Board To the Editor: Williamstown will voters will face an important election on May 14, and it is crucial that Amy Jeschawitz be re-elected to the Planning Board. When I first moved to Williamstown in 1988 as the principal of the Williamstown Elementary School, I was disappointed to note that new staff members hired at the school could not afford to live in Williamstown and had to find housing elsewhere. Unfortunately, the shortage of moderately-priced housing still exists. Given the importance of diversified housing choices for the economic future of our community, this is a very important issue. As a member of the Planning Board, Amy recognizes this problem and has worked hard to provide solutions. At this year's town meeting we will vote on proposals that will help solve the problem. If we want to attract new families and businesses to town, it is imperative that we provide additional housing options. Please join me in voting for Amy Jeschawitz for Planning Board on May 14. David Rempell Williamstown, Mass. The Oklahoma State Medical Association president on Tuesday said the state has "a little bit of a crisis probably looming ahead" similar to the delta wave after omicron became the dominant variant less than three weeks from when it was identified in the country. Its been a long run of hard times for Frank and Shirley Hudson, but the Hominy couple of more than 55 years may have things turning around thanks to help from the community. When someone stole Franks Toro riding mower, trailer and all, from their front yard in town, a friend at their church helped organize a GoFundMe campaign thats already raised more than $4,000 of the $5,000 goal as of Tuesday afternoon. Frank said he cant believe someone stole the mower in such a small town, but he is more shocked at the response from the community and excited to get a new mower. It just blew my mind, he said. Its really been a godsend; he really has blessed me on this, here. The Hudsons have dealt with some hardships lately. If any cuts need to be made, they are taken from the least important items, like going to the movies. Its a clear way to prioritize and monitor dollars coming in and dollars going out. By contrast, budgeting can be opaque in state government, clouded with massive amounts of dollars thrown into agency coffers and distributed to a myriad of programs. When the time comes to make tough decisions on programs or answer questions, it can be hard to see the priorities and where taxpayer money really goes. Line-item budgets give state agencies expenditure limits on certain programs so our elected lawmakers can keep better tabs on taxpayer dollars. Its been a widely used and effective tool for government accountability in Oklahoma in previous years. In fiscal year 2010, 71 state agencies received line-item budgets for certain programs. All totaled, the state appropriations to those 71 agencies made up 80.3 % of total state appropriations that year. Days after a 5-year-old boy died in an electric scooter accident, the mayors office proposed tightening city rules on the popular rentable vehicles. The Mayors Office says the city needs to have a minimum age requirement either 16 or 18 to use scooters and some more specific language about where they can be used on sidewalks. We dont disagree, but its worth pointing out that practically no one seems to be following or enforcing existing rules. The scooters available on most any Tulsa street already say clearly they are only to be used by people who are at least 18 years old. They also say they are never to be used on sidewalks and that helmets are required. Not to sound like an angry old man telling the kids to get off his lawn, but those rules are clearly and consistently being flaunted by the unhelmeted people of all ages we routinely see zipping down the sidewalks of Tulsa. Its an unsafe situation for everyone, including the people on the scooters. Scooters are new and fashionable, and Tulsa always wants to be with the hip kids, but its worth noting that Seattle, which is plenty cool, has banned them because they are dangerous. Since the special counsel Robert Muller's report has been released to Congress and the public, I have come to the following conclusions. First: The FISA (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act) courts should be abolished because it doesn't give the accused the right to a defense or to appeal their decisions. Second: The 1978 Ethics in Government Act should be amended to eliminate the special counsel because a non-elected person is doing the job Congress is too cowardly to do. Third: Robert Muller doesn't like Donald Trump. The abuse of these two acts has cost the American public over $25 million for nothing, except to divert the attention of government from doing its job of working for the people. Joe Baumgartner, Broken Arrow Letters to the editor are encouraged. Send letters to letters@tulsaworld.com. Subscribe to Daily Headlines Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The five service academies of the United States are the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Each academy offers a world-class academic experience along with superior leadership and physical training. They each offer an unmatched opportunity for world travel and adventure. U.S. Rep. Kevin Hern will host a Service Academy Day 9-11 a.m. Saturday at CityPlex Towers, first floor auditorium, 2448 E. 81st St. All students (8th through 11th grade) are invited, as are their parents and interested educators. Academy admission representatives will make presentations and answer questions. The First Congressional District will offer appointments to students from the Tulsa area. Attend this session and see if a service academy is for you. You will never know unless you ask! Michael Lapolla, Tulsa Subscribe to Daily Headlines Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The MP for the constituency, in which officials plan to put the large storage site for Covid A Fallen Friend, a Holocaust Survivor, a Fighter for Israel The Fellowship | May 8, 2019 Many of Israels current elders not only remember the Jewish states fight for independence in 1948, but many of the modern state of Israels earliest heroes, as well. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin marked Yom HaZikaron (Israels Memorial Day) by visiting the grave of one such hero. The Jerusalem Posts Anna Ahronheim tells us about this Israeli You Should Know Zvi Freddy Gross, who survived the Holocaust to give his life so that the Jewish people could call their rightful biblical homeland their home: Gross, a Holocaust survivor, Etzel fighter and IDF soldier was one of the heroes of that time an example to follow, Rivlin said at his grave at the Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem. For me, Freddy was one of the heroes of that time, and he lives with me as an example to follow. Thanks to him and to people like him, the State of Israel was established, Rivlin was quoted as saying. Born in Germany, Gross moved to Israel without any family and lived on Gaza Street in Jerusalems Rehavia neighborhood where he was adopted by the photographer Rudolph Yunes, a neighbor of Rivlins family and became part of the Rivlin family, read a statement released by Rivlins office. Gross was killed on May 17, 1948, two days after the declaration of independence, in the battle for the Police Academy in Jerusalem. I was nine-years-old when Freddy came to the neighborhood, said the president when he visited the grave. He was handsome and very special. He related to [me] with great seriousness. I remember him trying to chat with us, in the English we knew. When we found out about his death, we cried so much that Freddy had been killed. It hit us like a member of our own family and we feared we would not be able to bury his body. We were here in 1949 when they started to bury the dead of the War of Independence and Freddys picture was on a table in our house as if he were a member of the family, Rivlin added Grosss name was mentioned last year after a volunteer from the Giving a Face to the Fallen organization that identifies details of fallen IDF soldiers managed to locate his place of burial and found details about him and his family Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Serhiy Kryvonos is paying a working visit to Washington, D.C., where he is expected to take part in a meeting of the Ukraine-US commission for the exchange of information on developments and research in the field of military-technical cooperation. A corresponding announcement has been posted on the website of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine. Moreover, Kryvonos is to meet with Director of the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency Charles Hooper, the US Senior Military-Industrial Complex Reform Advisor Donald Winters, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, Eurasia Laura Cooper, Senior Regional Policy Advisor at the Defense Technology Security Administration Jon Chicky, experts from the Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA). During the meetings, the issues of reforming the Ukrainian military-industrial complex will be discussed. The meetings with representatives of American defense enterprises, experts and specialists in the field of cyber security will also be held, the statement reads. ol On May 7, State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine Andriy Zayats met with Ambassador of Palestine to Ukraine Dr. Mohammed Alasaad on the occasion of completion of his diplomatic mission in Ukraine. "During the meeting, the parties discussed a number of issues of Ukrainian-Palestinian cooperation in various sectors and emphasized the importance of further interaction," the Foreign Ministry said in a press release. Ambassador Andriy Zayats noted the significant contribution of Dr. Mohammed Alasaad to the development of Ukrainian-Palestinian bilateral relations and wished him success in his further professional career. ish U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State George Kent met with Ukraines President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv today, the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine reports. "Deputy Assistant Secretary George Kent congratulated President-elect Zelenskyy on his victory and emphasized that the United States stands ready to continue partnering with Ukraine to advance political and economic reforms," the embassy wrote on Twitter. Deputy Assistant Secretary George Kent congratulated President-elect Zelenskyy on his victory and emphasized that the United States stands ready to continue partnering with Ukraine to advance political and economic reforms. pic.twitter.com/Wbj04bW3Xz U.S. Embassy Kyiv (@USEmbassyKyiv) 8 2019 . As reported, Deputy Assistant Secretary George Kent arrived in Kyiv to discuss with Ukrainian officials the further development of partnership, reforms in Ukraine and Russian aggression. ish The two families, four adults and seven children, who had been detained since January in a transit zone on the Hungarian-Serbian border, were escorted to a border gate with Serbia at night on 7 May. They were presented with a choice of entering Serbia or being flown back to Afghanistan on a flight organized by Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. The treatment of these families, including their removal from Hungarian territory with no serious effort to look at their claims to refugee status, is deeply regrettable said Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Their case highlights our deep concerns about what is happening in Hungary, where asylum-seekers are rejected not on the merits of their claim, but because under Hungarys legislation, their claims are automatically considered inadmissible. Under this legislation, Hungary rejects without the safeguards required under EU law any asylum seeker who has previously been in a country that Hungary deems safe in the case of these families, Serbia. The UN Refugee Agency, which initially learned that the families faced removal to Afghanistan, on 6 May appealed to the Hungarian authorities to prevent the return. UNHCR now reiterates its appeal to Hungary to refrain from any attempts to send people back to their country of origin or otherwise remove them from Hungarian territory without proper assessment of their claim to asylum. UNHCR staff in Hungary, who do not have access to the pre-removal part of the transit zone where the families were being held, observed them crossing the border. They alerted colleagues in Serbia who in turn informed the Serbian authorities of the Afghans arrival. The Serbian authorities have given the families accommodation in a reception centre. UNHCR and its partners have access to them and are providing counselling. The families have told UNHCR that the Hungarian authorities did not give adult members food for five days, echoing previous reports that rejected asylum seekers in the transit zone are left without food. UNHCR urges the Hungarian government to ensure that all asylum seekers in their custody and care are provided with food in line with human rights law and with the governments legal obligations. A third Afghan family, a mother with four children, remains in the transit zone after the European Court of Human Rights granted an injunction preventing them from being removed. UNHCR remains concerned at the possible fate of members of this family, who are among some 40 individuals, including Iraqi and Iranian nationals, being held in the pre-removal area of the transit zone and are at risk of either being returned to their country of origin or coerced to re-enter Serbia. In view of this situation, UNHCR has advised the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex, to refrain from supporting Hungary in the enforcement of return decisions which are not in line with International and EU law. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Refugees and asylum-seekers are processed at Tripoli International Airport before an emergency evacuation flight to Niamey, Niger, May 2018. UNHCR/Tarik Argaz UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency is calling for refugees and migrants in detention centres in conflict areas in Tripoli to be immediately evacuated to safety, after an airstrike hit a target less than 100 metres away from Tajoura detention centre, where over 500 refugees and migrants are being detained. More than 500 people are currently being held in Tajoura, two of whom were injured and required medical assistance. When the hostilities intensified late last night, refugees and migrants were trapped inside and unable to flee to safety. Given the ongoing violence in Tripoli and the clear risk to lives, it is now more urgent than ever that those responsible for these centres allow the immediate release of people being held there so they can be moved to safety. The risks are simply unacceptable at this point, said Vincent Cochetel, UNHCR Special Envoy for the Central Mediterranean. People inside detention centres in Tripoli are facing ever-increasing dangers, making it vital that we immediately move them out of harms way. Since the onset of the conflict in Tripoli last 4 April, UNHCR has relocated over 1,200 persons from high-risk locations to safer areas. However, some 3,460 refugees and migrants remain in detention centres near to conflict-affected areas. No evacuations have taken place out of Libya since 146 people were relocated to Italy on 29 April. UNHCR urges the international community to come forward with further offers of humanitarian corridors and relocation. UNHCR is also concerned at the use of detention centres for storing weapons and military equipment. Utilising civilian infrastructure in this manner constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law and must be avoided at all costs. For more information on this topic, please contact: UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Ben Stiller testifies before the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations on May 1 in Washington,D.C. U.S. Senate Photo Studio When renowned actor and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Ben Stiller left the packed hearing room in the Dirksen Senate Office Building in the United States capital of Washington, D.C., he left no one in doubt about the message he had come to deliver: Syrian refugees still need the worlds help. When you see the face of it in person and whats going on there now its just very important that we do everything we can to help, Stiller told lawmakers after delivering a potent opening statement in formal testimony before the influential Committee on Foreign Relations of the United States Senate on May 1st. Nobody chooses to be a refugee. That was the heart of a reality that Stiller has seen firsthand in recent years as he has traveled to UNHCR refugee operations in various parts of the world, including most recently in March when he visited Lebanon. As he traveled through the cities and farmlands of the tiny country, he met countless Syrian families forced to flee the conflict that has engulfed their homeland for more than eight years now. "The term refugee has unfortunately become politicized." It was a rare and valuable opportunity to carry those powerful stories of survival, courage and hope for a better future directly to elected officials in Washington whose views and actions continue to be instrumental in supporting UNHCR and its ability to assist millions of Syrian refugees whose lives depend on that help. The fact is that there are still millions of Syrians who were uprooted from their homes and who are still being hosted generously by neighboring countries like Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey, Matthew Reynolds, UNHCR regional representative for the United States and the Caribbean, said following Stillers testimony. Their resources are strained and Bens appearance in Congress was an important opportunity for UNHCR to express our gratitude to the U.S. government and the American people for their unwavering humanitarian commitment and urge them to stay the course at this crucial time, Reynolds said. UNHCR figures indicate there are currently an estimated 6.5 million Syrian refugees worldwide, the majority of them living in Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon with smaller numbers in Egypt and Iraq. While a small, but increasing number of Syrian refugees have made the decision to return to their country, many others have been forced to flee ongoing violence in Syria and the majority of refugees have made clear to UNHCR that they do not foresee a return to Syria in the near future. "Refugees are real people with real stories." But while data show clearly just how acute the Syrian refugee situation remains, Stiller eloquently reminded lawmakers that it is a story not of numbers but of mothers and fathers, boys and girls, families fundamentally no different from any in the United States or anywhere else. Over the years, the term refugee has unfortunately become politicized despite the fact that refugees are real people with real stories stories that are the most traumatic Ive heard, especially as a father, Stiller said. Getting a chance to meet some of these people and hear their stories firsthand has been a privilege. Immediately it becomes clear what we all have in common. Though we come from different cultures and totally different worlds, we all want the same things to provide a good environment for our kids to grow up in. To laugh and share experiences with family and friends. To see our children grow up and achieve their dreams. Stiller, who was accompanied at the hearing by the head of the International Rescue Committee, David Milliband, engaged in lively and thoughtful exchanges with senators including James Risch, Robert Menendez, Mitt Romney, Rand Paul, Tim Kaine, Ben Cardin, Jeanne Shaheen and others. After the hearing, Stiller spent several additional hours in separate one-on-one meetings with other key U.S. members of Congress including Senator Lindsay Graham and Representative Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, during which he continued to remain focused on his number one goal: securing continued commitment to the needs of Syrian refugees and of all refugees worldwide. Hungarian police guard a gap in a fence marking the border with Serbia, in September 2015. UNHCR/Mark Henley Hungarys actions overnight to force two asylum-seeking Afghan families to leave the country under duress is deeply shocking and a flagrant violation of international and EU law, the UN Refugee Agency said today. The two families, four adults and seven children, who had been detained since January in a transit zone on the Hungarian-Serbian border, were escorted to a border gate with Serbia at night on 7 May. They were presented with a choice of entering Serbia or being flown back to Afghanistan on a flight organized by Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. The treatment of these families, including their removal from Hungarian territory with no serious effort to look at their claims to refugee status, is deeply regrettable said Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. Their case highlights our deep concerns about what is happening in Hungary, where asylum-seekers are rejected not on the merits of their claim, but because under Hungarys legislation, their claims are automatically considered inadmissible. Under this legislation, Hungary rejects without the safeguards required under EU law any asylum seeker who has previously been in a country that Hungary deems safe - in the case of these families, Serbia. The UN Refugee Agency, which initially learned that the families faced removal to Afghanistan, on 6 May appealed to the Hungarian authorities to prevent the return. UNHCR now reiterates its appeal to Hungary to refrain from any attempts to send people back to their country of origin or otherwise remove them from Hungarian territory without proper assessment of their claim to asylum. UNHCR staff in Hungary, who do not have access to the pre-removal part of the transit zone where the families were being held, observed them crossing the border. They alerted colleagues in Serbia who in turn informed the Serbian authorities of the Afghans arrival. The Serbian authorities have given the families accommodation in a reception centre. UNHCR and its partners have access to them and are providing counselling. The families have told UNHCR that the Hungarian authorities did not give adult members food for five days, echoing previous reports that rejected asylum seekers in the transit zone are left without food. UNHCR urges the Hungarian government to ensure that all asylum seekers in their custody and care are provided with food in line with human rights law and with the governments legal obligations. A third Afghan family, a mother with four children, remains in the transit zone after the European Court of Human Rights granted an injunction preventing them from being removed. UNHCR remains concerned at the possible fate of members of this family, who are among some 40 individuals, including Iraqi and Iranian nationals, being held in the pre-removal area of the transit zone and are at risk of either being returned to their country of origin or coerced to re-enter Serbia. In view of this situation, UNHCR has advised the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, Frontex, to refrain from supporting Hungary in the enforcement of return decisions which are not in line with International and EU law. For more information on this topic, please contact: Infrastructure Minister Omelyan wants to invite Tesla to build electric car plant in Ukraine 10:45, 08.05.19 2087 The bills will offer the investor the world's most advantageous conditions. Cheese exports from Ukraine shrink by 11% in Jan-April 11:29, 08.05.19 730 Cheese imports into Ukraine in the four months of 2019 increased by 48%, to 5,500 tonnes. A Sacrifice Impossible to Overlook The Fellowship | May 8, 2019 Israelis are a proud, enduring people, full of life and determination. If you go to Israel, youll experience this nearly everywhere you go: walking down the street, shopping at the market, riding the bus. But lurking just below the pride is something quieter and more subdued that is no less a part of Israeli identity its an awareness of the personal investment, loss, and sacrifice that every Israeli has made in one way or another for their country. You can see this in the far-off look in a mothers eyes when another soldiers funeral is announced. You see it in the hugs a father gives his Army green-clad child at the bus station. Or, in my case, you can see it in a simple neighborhood oak tree. Today is Yom Hazikaron, an annual holiday on which we honor our fallen soldiers. Its a day when were forced to confront the sense of sacrifice that can sometimes be hidden by our determined, forward-thinking sensibilities. Today, for example, Im staring at the same oak tree I look at every day. It sits right outside of my house, a towering oak with branches that cast shade on a small bench beneath it. My children play there. People on a stroll often stop to rest and admire it. But today, the small inscription on the bench Amos1962-1982 is impossible to overlook. For my neighbor Yudit, the inscription is large, glaring, and impossible to overlook every day. The memorial is for her son youngest son, Amos her baby, she calls him. Amos was killed in action in the first Lebanon War of 1982. He was twenty years old. Yudit has lived in the same house for more than 50 years, and since weve moved next door shes been practically a grandmother to our children. They show up unannounced and march straight to her candy drawer, which she keeps stocked specifically for such visits. She welcomes them with a bright smile, as she does all of us. At one point, the tree may have been just another tree to her, too. But since that day in 1982 when she lost her youngest son, and a plaque was placed on the tree to honor his memory, it serves as a painful reminder of the loss she experienced and continues to live with every day. Every year on Yom HaZikaron, our street fills with cars and visitors paying their respects to the grieving mother. Amos childhood friends, community members, and the soldiers he served with all stop by. And I know that similar scenes are happening all over Israel on Yom HaZikaron. Ours is a small country, and nearly everyone has been affected, in one way or another, by the sacrifices we have made to live in freedom. Its that camaraderie that makes Yom Hazikaron such a painful but important holiday it forces all of us to stop, visit, pay our respects, and acknowledge the losses that have allowed us to gain so much. Thats why today, in this otherwise loud, proud, boisterous country, something as simple as an oak tree can stop you in your tracks, and make you reflect on those who gave their lives so we can live ours. Ami Farkas The new route will operate twice a week. Ryanair has officially launched a new twice-weekly route between Dublin and Kyiv. Read alsoRyanair launches new flights from Ukraine's Kharkiv Airport "We are pleased to launch our new route from Dublin to Kyiv, which will operate twice-weekly as part of our summer 2019 schedule, [which features] 100 routes in total," Ryanair's Eimear Ryan commented, according to Hospitality Ireland. Meanwhile, Dublin Airport managing director Vincent Harrison said: "We are delighted to welcome Ryanair's new service to Kyiv. The new route will boost trade and tourism between Ireland and Ukraine, and I have no doubt it will be a popular route in both directions. We will work closely with Ryanair and its management team to promote this new route." Last year, Ukrainian producers exported agrarian products worth a record $19 billion. And although the lion's share of the supply remains raw export, domestic ready-made food products can already be found on the shelves of foreign retail chains. But for Ukraine to obtain the prestigious status of a "global supermarket," farmers and the government still have a lot of work to do. The exports of agricultural products from Ukraine have been growing for the fourth year in a row. Last year, farmers set a new record, selling abroad products worth $18.8 billion, which is 5% more than in 2017. The inflow of foreign currency not only helped farmers invest in the development of the national agricultural sector, but also supported the hryvnia exchange rate. The export of Ukrainian foods to the European Union in 2018 grew by 9% compared with the previous year to $6.3 billion. And although grains still comprise the bulk of Ukrainian agrarian exports, the growth of this indicator was also possible due to higher value added products. We are talking about poultry meat, tobacco, and even confectionery. Also, domestic producers actively supplied to foreign markets sunflower and butter, honey, chocolate, and bakery products. The main competitive advantage of domestic products, which allows them to occupy a prominent spot on the shelves of international retail chains, is a favorable price-quality ratio. At the same time, speaking of the success of Ukrainian producers in conquering foreign markets, we should not forget that the share of ready-made food products in the total volume of agricultural exports is still quite low. According to analysts of the Ukrainian Club of Agrarian Business (UCAB), at the end of last year, this figure was only 20% of the total commodity structure of Ukrainian agriexports. "Over the past five years, exports of finished products from Ukraine ranged from $2.9 billion to $3.5 billion. In 2018, exports of finished products from Ukraine amounted to $3.7 billion, which is 5% more than in 2017 year," Daria Hrytsenko, head of the analytical department at UCAB, told UNIAN. Contrary to the popular opinion of many consumers, the main problem of domestic products abroad is not quality Ukrainian products, which are exported, have long met international standards. A really serious obstacle is the inability to adapt products to the tastes of a demanding foreign consumer. Success depends on competent marketing, understanding the specifics of local markets, and seeing in advance how successful a product could be in a particular region. It is important to understand where the goods will be sold as the promotion strategy and even the labeling of the packaging depend on this. Course toward new markets So what markets show most demand for Ukrainian food products and the taste of which consumers should domestic producers take into account primarily? Starting in 2014, after the start of Russia's war against our state and the loss of the Russian market as the main one, Ukraine faced the challenge of diversifying agricultural exports. Thanks to the efforts of Ukrainian manufacturers and the support of the relevant ministry, over the four years, our country coped well with this task. One of Ukraine's largest egg producers, Oleh Bakhmatiuk's Avangard Holding, faced the need to search for new markets. According to the businessman, in 2015, the company practically ceased to exist due to the loss of a significant share of assets and sales markets in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and Crimea. Therefore, the search for new development vectors has become a matter of company survival. "We have decided to reorient ourselves to foreign markets. We export our products to Iraq, the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Hong Kong, now we are planning to enter the market of Singapore, and about twenty African countries. If we manage to develop and balance, I expect that Avangard will return to its previous level in two or three years," Bakhmatiuk told UNIAN. There are many examples where Ukrainian manufacturers shifted away from the market of the aggressor state and began to build successful business relations with partners from other countries. According to the State Service for Food Safety and Consumer Protection, national producers in 2018 alone opened 85 new markets for their products. At first, after the reorientation of Ukrainian exports, Asia and Africa became the main consumers of our food products. Thus, according to the UCAB, in the period from 2014 to 2018, food supplies to China with a population of about one and a half billion people increased almost sevenfold, and that to the very promising market of Japan with a population of 127 million people from $741,000 in 2014 to $76.9 million in 2018. According to our agrarian ministry, in China, in addition to grains, Ukrainian sunflower oil was the most active, in Japan, tobacco, condensed milk and fruits and vegetables were consumed. At the same time, the priority and most respected market for Ukrainian exporters remains the EU, which, despite the increase in supply dynamics, still remains inaccessible to many. First of all, that's due to the fact that a spoiled European consumer pays attention, first of all, to an attractive, bright product the one in a catchy package, with a witty advertising campaign. Namely, the inability to promote and advantageously position their products is a characteristic feature of the majority of Ukrainian manufacturers. Exporters facing problems The agrarian ministry draws attention to the fact that it is poor marketing that is the main problem of Ukrainian exporters. "Competition in the global market is very tense, and you need to promote your products. You need to go to exhibitions, you need to develop a marketing campaign, you need to promote the brand Made in Ukraine," emphasizes Olha Trofimtseva, Acting Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food. According to her, Ukrainian food products are in demand abroad, and foreign consumers are interested in buying them, but to this end, it is necessary that the products are properly presented. At the same time, high-quality marketing costs a lot of money, which domestic manufacturers may not have. And here lays another obstacle in the way of Ukrainian exporters the lack of financing and risk insurance from the state. "The more Ukraine increases the exports of ready-made foods, the more problems arise for producers. One of them is the lack of risk insurance. While in most countries insurance is provided by the state, there is no such practice in Ukraine. And the domestic producers cannot export major batches of goods without a guarantee. The world, accordingly, will not cooperate without an advance payment," said Bohdan Shapoval, head of the UFEB (Ukrainian Food Export Board). It is important to note that Ukraine is already working in this direction. It is for additional financing and insurance of Ukrainian exporters that the government decided in 2018 to create an Export Credit Agency. Its main task will be lending, as well as insurance of export loans and transactions against risks. In addition, the newly created agency will be able to provide organizational, informational and analytical support to manufacturers who would like to get their products to foreign markets, but do not yet know where to start. The agrarian ministry hopes that the Export Credit Agency can start full-fledged work as early as 2019. Search for new opportunities The export of value-added agricultural products in 2019 will only increase. According to experts, the most promising export products will be butter, soybean oil, and honey. However, an increase in the supply of this group of goods will still drag behind the growing rate of commodity exports. For example, according to the forecasts of the relevant ministry, thanks to a record harvest last year, farmers will supply 49 million tonnes of grains to foreign markets in 2018-2019 marketing year (MY, July 2018 - June 2019) against 47 million tonnes in MY 2017-2018. Thanks to raw exports, Ukraine has long secured the status of a global breadbasket. However, the export of grains alone will not let the country earn much. It's finished products that can bring large foreign exchange earnings, and our state has the potential to move in this direction. But to achieve success, both the state and the producers need to work hard. First of all, Ukrainian manufacturers should be explained how to promote their products on foreign markets. Ukrainian higher education should also take part in strengthening the country's export potential by starting to train marketers with an understanding of global markets trends. In addition, it is necessary to complete the creation of an Export Credit Agency with a necessary amount of funding to support national producers and exporters. Yelizaveta Dorontseva Ukraine's newly appointed tax agency chief talks of first steps to be done 18:45, 08.05.19 2991 Withdrawing tax police from under the State Tax Service supervision should be one of the measures to turn the agency into a customer-oriented service organization. An official with the Russia-backed government in Crimea confirmed to the Russia news agency TASS that the fishermen had been released. Two Ukrainian fishermen detained last year by Russian border guards after their boat broke down off the coast of the Crimea Peninsula have been released. Lyudmyla Denisova, the human rights ombudsman for Ukraine, said in a post to her Facebook page on May 7 that she had been informed that Ruslan Kondratyuk and Andriy Morosov "are now on the way back to their families in the Kherson region," RFE/RL reported. Read alsoRussia changes tone in talks with Ukraine on POW sailors MFA Ukraine Denisova said Russian border guards detained the fishermen in September after their motorboat broke down, forcing them to land the craft in Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula that Russia annexed in 2014. An official with the Russia-backed government in Crimea confirmed to the Russia news agency TASS that the fishermen had been released. Lyudmila Lubina, identified as a Crimean human rights ombudsman, said a court had fined the men an undisclosed sum, although she said they had faced up to five years in prison. Russia, meanwhile, continues to hold 24 Ukrainian seamen who were jailed after Russian border guards seized their vessels near the Kerch Strait between Russia and Crimea in a flare-up of tension in November 2018. Moscow accused them of illegal entry into Russian territorial waters, which they deny, and they are formally charged with illegal border crossing. Russia's annexation of Crimea has not been recognized by the international community. The United States and European Union have imposed sanctions on Moscow for the seizure and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine. Team Zelensky will ensure that Ukrainians are in less contact with the bureaucratic machine. During Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland in Kyiv Wednesday, May 8, the Ukrainian President-elect said his team sought to create a "State in smartphone." According to Zelensky's press service, the presidential election winner and the head of the Canadian Foreign Ministry, in particular, discussed anti-corruption measures, Glavred reports. Read alsoCanada extends its military training mission in Ukraine "We don't want to be talking about fighting corruption, we want to defeat it," said the newly elected Ukrainian leader. Zelensky explained that to this end, his team would ensure that the Ukrainians have as little contact with the bureaucratic machine as possible. "Our goal is a 'State in smartphone', explained the president-elect. They are accused of causing serious bodily injuries resulting in Kherson activist Kateryna Handziuk's death. The Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) of Ukraine has sent an indictment against five suspects in the case of Kherson activist Kateryna Handziuk's assassination to court. "On May 7, 2019, the PGO approved and sent to court for consideration on the merits an indictment in criminal proceedings, which had been investigated by the Main Investigation Department of the SBU Security Service of Ukraine against five people who are accused of causing serious bodily injuries resulting in Kherson activist Kateryna Handziuk's death," Larysa Sargan, spokeswoman for Prosecutor General Yuriy Lutsenko, wrote on Twitter on May 8, 2019. Read alsoHandziuk murder case: Suspect Pavlovsky released from custody at prosecutor's request UNIAN memo. Kherson activist, adviser to the Mayor of Kherson and acting manager of affairs at Kherson City Council's executive committee Kateryna Handziuk, 33, on July 31, 2018, survived an act of acid throwing. She suffered burns to more than 35% of her body and underwent 11 operations in Kyiv. Handziuk died on November 4, 2018. The immediate cause of her death was a severed blood clot resulting from the acid attack. Police originally qualified the attack as an attempted murder committed with extreme cruelty, then its status was changed to completed murder. Six suspects were detained, one of whom, Mykola Novikov, was later released from custody as charges against him were dropped. The alleged participant in the assassination, Serhiy Torbin, and Mykyta Hrabchuk, another suspect in the case, were remanded in custody. Three other suspects Vyacheslav Vishnevsky, Volodymyr Vasyanovych, and Viktor Horbunov were placed under house arrest. On November 5, the media reported that Torbin had allegedly received money for the attack on Handziuk from Ihor Pavlovsky, an assistant to Member of Parliament from the Petro Poroshenko Bloc parliamentary faction Mykola Palamarchuk. Palamarchuk in turn dismissed any accusations of his possible involvement in the assassination attempt on the activist. He also said he had dismissed Pavlovsky. On November 12, a court ruled to detain Pavlovsky. According to the SBU Security Service, he is suspected of complicity in the Handziuk murder. Chief Prosecutor Yuriy Lutsenko announced on December 3 that the investigators had identified all the individuals who had ordered the assassination. He also named Oleksiy Levin (his real second name is Moskalenko) who later was placed on the international wanted list on December 10, 2018, on suspicion of involvement in the Handziuk assassination. Head of Kherson Regional Council Vladyslav Manger is charged with organizing the assassination. Three enemy troops were killed and another two were wounded on Tuesday, intelligence reports say. Russia's hybrid military forces mounted 25 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the past 24 hours, with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as killed in action, and another three as wounded in action. "One Ukrainian member of the Joint Forces was killed in action and another three were wounded in action [before Wednesday midnight]. Each enemy provocation had an adequate response," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on May 8, 2019. Read alsoUkrainian soldier killed, two injured in Donbas May 7 According to intelligence reports, three invaders were killed and another two were wounded. Ukrainian troops also destroyed two enemy infantry fighting vehicles and a fortified emplacement. On Tuesday, Russian occupation forces opened fire from 122mm artillery systems, tank guns, 120mm and 82mm mortars, weapons installed on infantry fighting vehicles, anti-tank missile systems, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and sniper rifles and small arms. Twelve attacks were mounted with the use of proscribed weapons. Under attack were Ukrainian positions near the towns of Avdiyivka and Popasna, as well as near the villages of Novotroyitske, Vodiane, Mykolaivka, Hnutove, Nevelske, Starohnativka, Novoselivka Druha, Lebedynske, Bohdanivka, Novozvanivka, Katerynivka, Khutir Vilniy, Pivdenne, and Stanytsia Luhanska. "Since Wednesday midnight, Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions twice near the town of Maryinka and the village of Pavlopil, using automatic grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms. One member of the Joint Forces has been killed as a result of shelling [after Wednesday midnight]. Each enemy attack has had an adequate response. Information on the enemy's losses is being verified," the report said. The pay is increased on a regular basis within the funds allocated from the 2019 national budget. Ukrainian Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak has signed an order to increase from May 1, 2019, the size of an allowance for participation in the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) by UAH 5,000 (US$189) to servicemen who are on the contact line and by UAH 1,000 (US$37) for those in other JFO zones. Read alsoEscalation in Donbas: Two Ukrainian soldiers killed, three wounded in 25 enemy attacks Thus, the minimum allowance of a member of the JFO serving under the contact on the contact line in Donbas will amount to UAH 27,300 (US$1,032), and UAH 16,800 (US$635) in other JFO zones. A platoon commander who is on the contact line will get from UAH 31,100 (US$1,175), and from UAH 20,600 (US$778) in other areas of the operation. A battalion commander who serves on the contact line will have from UAH 35,500 (US$1,342), and from UAH 25,000 (US$945) in other areas of the operation, as reported by the Office of Communications and Press of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. A brigade commander who performs tasks on the contact line will be paid UAH 42,000 (US$1,587), and UAH 31,500 (US$1,190) in other areas of the operation. "The pay is increased on a regular basis within the funds allocated in the 2019 national budget for the maintenance of the Armed Forces and does not require additional budget financing," the ministry said. As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on May 6 instructed Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak to increase the military's pay. The former Ukrainian official's assessment undercuts the idea that Biden, now a top Democratic presidential candidate, was seeking to sideline a prosecutor who was actively threatening a company tied to his son. U.S. President Donald Trumps personal lawyer is raising the specter that Joe Biden intervened in Ukrainian politics to help his sons business. But if that was Bidens aim, he was more than a year late, based on a timeline laid out by a former Ukrainian official and in Ukrainian documents, Bloomberg reports. The official described to Bloomberg details about the countrys political dynamic in the run-up to early 2016 when Biden, then the U.S. vice president, threatened to hold up U.S. funding to Ukraine unless it cracked down on corruption. Bidens chief demand was the ouster of a top Ukrainian prosecutor who he said had been ineffective. The episode has come under the spotlight in the last week because at one point, that prosecutor had been investigating a natural gas company where Bidens son, Hunter Biden, sat on the board and received substantial compensation. Theres little question that the Bidens paths in Ukraine held the potential for conflict, and in a tweet last week, Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani said the U.S. should investigate the matter. But what has received less attention is that at the time Biden made his ultimatum, the probe into the company -- Burisma Holdings, owned by Mykola Zlochevsky -- had been long dormant, according to the former official, Vitaliy Kasko. "There was no pressure from anyone from the U.S. to close cases against Zlochevsky," Kasko said in an interview last week. "It was shelved by Ukrainian prosecutors in 2014 and through 2015." Read alsoTrump's allies eager to encourage Ukraine probe into Burisma where Biden's son worked NYT Kaskos assessment adds a wrinkle to one of the first political intrigues of the 2020 election season. It undercuts the idea that Biden, now a top Democratic presidential candidate, was seeking to sideline a prosecutor who was actively threatening a company tied to his son. Instead, it appears more consistent with Bidens previous statements that he was pressing for the removal of a prosecutor who was failing to tackle rampant corruption: According to public reports and internal documents from the Ukrainian prosecutors office, U.S. officials had expressed concern for more than a year about Ukrainian prosecutors failure to assist an international investigation of Zlochevsky. Earlier this year, Ukraines current prosecutor general, Yuriy Lutsenko, met with Trump attorney Giuliani, and the two discussed the Burisma investigation, according to Lutsenkos spokeswoman Larysa Sargan. Sargan said the prosecutor general hasnt reopened the case into Burisma or Zlochevsky, contradicting a claim in the New York Times that the Ukrainian prosecutor is scrutinizing millions of dollars of payments from Burisma to the firm that paid Hunter Biden. Ukraines incoming president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, is likely to appoint his own top prosecutor to replace Lutsenko. Under Poroshenko, Ukraine hasnt convicted any high-ranking officials of corruption. Giuliani has been pressing for greater scrutiny of the Biden matter. Biden conflicts are too apparent to be ignored and should be investigated quickly and expeditiously, Giuliani tweeted, sharing a link to the Timess story. As vice president, Joe Biden played a key role in the dismissal of a Ukrainian prosecutor who had opened an investigation of a company employing Mr. Bidens son. President Donald Trump has also referenced potential conflicts of interest by Joe Biden, one of the Democrats currently seen as having the greatest chance to defeat him. 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Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Tanna Probation Officer Sam Kapalu signing the MOU with the President of the Nikoletan Council of Chiefs Kuaiei Willie Lop, witnessed and supported by the President of the Tafea Province Jeffrey Kaut, Secretart General Joe Iautim, TPG Consultant Palen Ata as well as council member Willie Iata. The Federal Tax Authority,FTA, welcomed a high-profile government delegation from the Republic of Uzbekistan at its Dubai headquarters in a prominent stop on their official tour in the UAE the largest of its kind by Uzbek officials, covering various UAE Government entities to promote strategic partnership between the two countries DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 08th May, 2019) The Federal Tax Authority,FTA, welcomed a high-profile government delegation from the Republic of Uzbekistan at its Dubai headquarters in a prominent stop on their official tour in the UAE the largest of its kind by Uzbek officials, covering various UAE Government entities to promote strategic partnership between the two countries. The visit was part of the efforts to promote collaboration among taskforces within strategic sectors including performance management, innovation, programming, the future of education, economics, competitiveness. In addition, the official visit sought to strengthen cooperation in the field of taxation, facilitate the exchange of experiences, highlight the UAEs successful approach to taxation, and introduce the advanced practices and technologies that enhance payment processes, tax collection, and tax accounts management, in addition to promoting compliance with tax procedures. FTA Director General Khalid Ali Al Bustani welcomed the delegation with several high-ranking officials from the authority, stressing the importance of expanding the scope of cooperation in the field of taxes, which is vital for enhancing economic and social development, and ensuring the financial stability of both governments. "Todays visit further enhances the UAEs status as a role model in all matters of government administration," he said. "The UAE is one of the first countries in the world to implement a digital tax system free of any paper transactions. The Federal Tax Authority runs a state-of-the-art automated electronic system, and has launched a comprehensive website where all tax legislation can be viewed, along with a number of manuals and guidelines, to encourage auto-compliance and transparency in the tax system." "We are always looking to expand our circle of international partners and facilitate the exchange of experiences and visions around modern tax systems," Al Bustani added. "This, in turn, helps develop tax systems, promotes sustainability and economic diversification, and upgrades the quality of services offered to all members of the community. " The FTA showcased the UAEs legal tax framework to the visiting delegation, which is aligned with the leaderships vision to implement a tax system that promotes self-compliance. The FTA shed light on its progress in empowering innovation in tax procedures, automating and integrating tax systems that align with the UAEs shift towards smart technologies in all services. The FTA team went on to showcase the Authoritys efforts to spread tax awareness by organising a series of workshops in all seven emirates and covering all business sectors, as well as publishing several guides, e-learning programmes, awareness videos, and publications. The Uzbek delegation applauded the Authoritys efforts to implement an advanced tax system that further promotes the UAEs international standing, and ensures high rates of compliance in a short period of time. They went on to showcase the latest tax systems in force in Uzbekistan, and expressed hope that the future would see further collaboration on taxes with the UAE. The Authoritys team went on to discuss the strategic partnerships the FTA has forged in an effort to establish a digital link with the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank of the UAE, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, the e-Dirham network, and all local customs departments, with the objective of ensuring a smooth and seamless roll-out of the tax system, and facilitating tax compliance using reliable electronic systems and qualified tax agents. Furthermore, the team covered the Tax Refund for Tourists Scheme and the procedures put in place to connect all ports of exit in the UAE, as well as retail and wholesale outlets, stores, and shopping centres across the country, directly with the FTA databases, all in an effort to ensure a seamless experience for tourists and to help improve the sector as a whole. NUR-SULTAN (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2019) SULTAN, May 8 (Sputnik) - Kazakhstan plans to start in 2019 to pour funds into the Baiterek project, under which infrastructure will be constructed at the Baikonur cosmodrome that will enable launches of prospective Russian Irtysh carriers, the aerospace committee of the Kazakh Ministry of Digital Development, Defense and Aerospace Industry told Sputnik on Wednesday, responding to its official request. Kazakhstan-based Baikonur cosmodrome, operating Russian and multinational space programs, is on lease to Russia until 2050. Russia and Kazakhstan have been discussing their joint Baiterek project since 2004. The project aims at enabling launches of environment-friendly Irstysh carriers (formerly called Soyuz-5) that will replace Proton carriers, which use fuel with toxic components. "We have plans to start financing the project this year. The technical and economical rationale of the project 'Creation of Baiterek SRC [space and rocket complex]' is undergoing state examination. After the economical examination body gives a positive assessment in its feasibility study, the project funding will be passed to the republican budget committee for reviewing," the aerospace committee said. Kazakhstan has said that it was ready to pour $314 million in the Baiterek project, while Russia is in charge of creating the new Irtysh rocket. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2019) The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its affiliate, the Burundian Union of Journalists (UBJ), condemned on Tuesday the arrest of Burundian radio and tv journalist Claude Nshimirimana, whom the police suspect of participating in a "clandestine meeting," and urged the country's authorities to release him. Nshimirimana, who works for National Radio and Television of Burundi, was detained on Sunday in the country's Kabezi commune. According to the National Radio's director, no reasons for Nshimirimana's arrest have been provided so far. "We denounce and condemn the arbitrary detention of our comrade Claude Nshimirimana. We demand his immediate release since the alleged reason for his arrest, that is, participation in a clandestine meeting, is pure fantasy. Claude was only jogging on the public road," the UBJ and the IFJ said in a joint statement, released on the latter's official website. In addition, IFJ, alongside the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), has urged the Burundian authorities to respect the fundamental civil rights and put an end to intimidation and harassment of journalists and media in general. "The IFJ and the FAJ call for the immediate and unconditional release of Claude Nshimirimana, and urge the Burundian Government to respect the fundamental rights of its citizens and to end all forms of intimidation and harassment of journalists and the media," the statement read further. Burundian journalists have been facing serious intimidation and harassment since 2015, IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger said. According to Bellanger, the government has been resorting to various tactics to force journalists into submission. As a result, many journalists had to leave their homeland, while those who preferred to stay became the victims of self-censoring. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2019) An OSCE Election Observation Mission (EOM) formally started operating in Kazakhstan ahead of June's presidential vote to assess the election environment, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said in a press release on Wednesday. "The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today formally opened an election observation mission (EOM) for the 9 June early presidential election in Kazakhstan, ODIHR announced in a press release today. The mission's deployment follows an invitation from the country's authorities," the press release reads. For the next two months, observers will closely monitor a range of electoral procedures including voter and candidate registration, campaign activities, media coverage, work of the relevant government institutions, and resolution of disputes. On the election day, they will observe the opening of voting stations, polling, ballots count, and tabulation of results. The purpose is to assess compliance with national legislation, as well as international obligations, including OSCE commitments, and democratic standards. The mission includes a team of 11 core experts based in the capital Nur-Sultan and observers deployed across the country. Among them, 24 long-term observers who commence work on May 14 and 300 short-term observers who will be deployed immediately prior to the election day set on June 9. EOM will hold a number of meetings with representatives of the government, political parties, civil society, media and international partners, according to the press release. Following the standard procedure, ODIHR will issue two statements with findings and conclusions: a preliminary one the day after the election and a final one approximately two months later. Foreign observers in Kazakhstan are normally accredited by the Central Election Commission (CEC) upon recommendation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. More than 700 short-term observers are expected to monitor the June 9 election. To date, CEC has registered 45 foreign observers, including from the missions of Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) (7), Interparliamentary Assembly of Member Nations of CIS (22), OSCE / ODHIR (12), Organization of Islamic Cooperation (4). For Kazakhstan, this is the ninth election observed by OHDIR, the most recent one being the early parliamentary vote in 2016. (@ChaudhryMAli88) The Russian Civic Chamber's media committee chair Alexander Malkevich told Sputnik on Wednesday that he was stopped by Moldovan border patrol from entering the country upon flying into its capital earlier in the day CHISINAU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2019) The Russian Civic Chamber 's media committee chair Alexander Malkevich told Sputnik on Wednesday that he was stopped by Moldovan border patrol from entering the country upon flying into its capital earlier in the day. "Upon arriving at the [Chisinau] airport, I was detained and questioned for a long time [about an hour] and was told that my presence in Moldova was not welcome and that I would be escorted out of the country on the next flight," Malkevich said. Malkevich said he had flown to Moldova on vacation. The Moldovan border police did not comment on the situation. Moldova has previously denied entry to Russian journalists. In February, Moldova's border police denied entry to Russian NTV and Russia-1 tv broadcaster film crews, saying that the purpose of their visit and duration of stay in the country were not provided. The film crews were sent back to Moscow. The Russian Embassy in Moldova said on Wednesday it was concerned about the increasing number of cases involving Russian citizens being denied entry to the republic CHISINAU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th May, 2019) The Russian Embassy in Moldova said on Wednesday it was concerned about the increasing number of cases involving Russian citizens being denied entry to the republic. Earlier in the day, the Russian Civic Chamber's media committee chair Alexander Malkevich told Sputnik that he was stopped by Moldovan border patrol from entering the country upon flying into its capital. Malkevich said he had flown to Moldova on vacation. The Moldovan border police said that the reason for the refusal was his inability to explain the purpose of his visit. "The Russian embassy is extremely concerned about the increasing frequency of cases of denial of entry into the Republic of Moldova to Russian citizens. Fully sharing the opinion that Moldova has a significant tourist potential and is one of the attractive destinations for Russians, we note that such actions by Moldovan partners do not contribute to an increase in tourist flow from our country, even less to the harmonization of bilateral relations," the embassy said in a statement. Moldova has previously denied entry to Russian journalists. In February, Moldova's border police denied entry to Russian NTV and Rossiya-1 broadcasters' crews, saying that the purpose of their visit and duration of stay in the country were not provided. The journalists were sent back to Moscow. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Syrian medical institutions are lacking qualified medical personnel and equipment, Russian lawmaker Natalya Poklonskaya told Sputnik SIMFEROPOL (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 07th May, 2019) Syrian medical institutions are lacking qualified medical personnel and equipment, Russian lawmaker Natalya Poklonskaya told Sputnik. On Monday, a delegation from Crimea headed by Poklonskaya arrived in Syria. The main purpose of the visit is to discuss with local authorities the issues related to organizing treatment of Syrian children in sanatorium-resort institutions of Crimea. "The delegation's program began with a visit to the pediatrics department of the Damascus central hospital with a capacity of 500 beds. This medical institution is in a situation of shortage of qualified medical personnel and equipment," Poklonskaya said. According to the lawmaker, during the visit, an agreement was reached on cooperation between the Damascus hospital and the Children's Clinical Hospital named after Z. A. Bashlyaeva in Moscow. "We are talking about the cooperation in the field of high-tech medical care, conducting complex surgeries, treatment of children and exchanging specialists," Poklonskaya noted. Poklonskaya recalled that Crimea's head Sergei Aksyonov and Syrian Economy and Foreign Trade Minister Samer Khalil had held talks on the sidelines of the Yalta International Economic Forum in April, during which the latter had asked to send about 50 wounded and sick children for treatment in Crimea. "Today, there is an understanding regarding seven children, who can get qualified treatment at Moscow hospitals. They suffer from ophthalmologic diseases and hearing pathologies. Two children with injuries are in serious condition and their condition requires a speedy transportation to Russia to save their lives," she stressed. According to the lawmaker, the Syrian side is doing everything possible to arrange their passports as soon as possible, and the Russian embassy in Damascus is also ready to issue visas in the near future. May 7, 2019 19-77 Jessica Pope Communications and Media Relations Coordinator VSUs Mary Alex Carter Represents Georgia at Henry Clay Center for Statesmanship VALDOSTA Valdosta State Universitys Mary Alex Carter will represent Georgia at the Henry Clay Center for Statesmanship 2019 College Student Congress May 12-24. A total of 51 rising college seniors one from each state and the District of Columbia were chosen to gather on the campuses of the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky, and Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia, and learn more about the values and tools for dialogue, negotiation, and compromise. Working alongside lawmakers, academics, journalists, business leaders, and more, Carter and her peers will explore the dynamics of public policy and public policy decision-making through the lens of Henry Clay, Kentuckys great statesman and compromiser. During the College Student Congress, Carter will be challenged to interact with students who hold beliefs that differ from her own, to civilly and openly engage in a dialogue about those differences, to learn to listen to the ideas of others, and ultimately, to set those differences aside in the spirit of cooperation in order to achieve progress for the common good. Carter will also have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., to take what she has learned about public policy and see it in action in the nations capital. She will have an opportunity to meet with politicians, visit government agencies, engage in conversations with private sector players, and explore possible bridges between her academic and professional lives. Carter anticipates graduating from VSU with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a minor in art in May 2020 and then attending law school. She is a member of the Kappa Beta Chapter of Phi Mu, the VSU College Republicans, the VSU Student Government Association, Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International, and the Zeta Omega Chapter of Order of Omega. She recently completed an internship at the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Georgia General Assembly. She is the daughter of Doug and Amy Carter of Valdosta, Georgia. The Henry Clay Center for Statesmanship is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization seeking to change the nature of the nations political discourse and the manner in which the nation approaches ideological divisions by educating both current and future leaders in the principles of statesmanship. Through academic programs, elected official education, and engagement with the American public, the center challenges individuals to listen to those who hold different beliefs from their own, to participate in civil discourse, to identify common ground and shared goals, to build relationships based on personal interactions rather than preconceived notions, and to learn the art of cooperation while maintaining individual convictions and values. The Catholic Bishop of Nigerias Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, says many of the problems facing his country stem from an inability by its leaders to manage diversity. As a result, people in the country retreat either to their family, clan or ethnic group. Agenzia Fides Abuja, Nigeria I think that the problems in Nigeria have very little to do with the things that we ascribe, but have everything to do with our inability, sheer incapacity to manage diversity. Managing diversity is a science, says the Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah. The Bishop of Sokoto, in northern Nigeria, was speaking at the annual meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR). Nigeria, with a population of over 200 million people, has at least 250 ethnic groups. According to Bishop Kukah, Tragically as the population has increased we have not been able to craft a narrative [that promotes unity in diversity] and as such] the search for national cohesion remains an illusion. Nigerians, therefore, tend to seek support and protection in the family, in the clan and in the ethnic group to which they belong. When you live in a country like Nigeria, where people are safer with their nephews, cousins, brothers, sisters, as special assistants, personal assistants, then we are in trouble, says the Bishop, pointing out that many leaders in politics and business rely on people from their ethnic groups as criteria for selecting close collaborators. The result, says Bishop Kukah, is that Nigeria is a nation averse to the expertise and intellectual contribution of those who do not belong to ones ethnic group. Faced with scarce prospects and opportunities in their country, young Nigerians emigrate but often end up in the hands of criminal organisations. It is a mortal sin that millions of young people emigrate and then commit crimes, says Bishop Kukah. It is totally unacceptable that we would live with so much and yet so many of our people are objects of humiliation around the world, The Bishop of Sokoto said. At this weeks Wednesdays General Audience in St Peters Square, Pope Francis reflects on his Apostolic journey to Bulgaria and North Macedonia. By Vatican News Pope Francis reflections at this Wednesdays General Audience were really a synthesis of his recent Apostolic journey to Bulgaria and North Macedonia. Bulgaria and Saint John XXIII The Pope began by saying how, in Bulgaria, he was guided by the living memory of Saint John XXIII, who spent nearly ten years in the country as Apostolic Delegate. The motto chosen for the Bulgaria leg of the trip was the title of Pope John XXIIIs encyclical, "Pacem in Terris". Inspired by this motto, Pope Francis said he had invited everyone to walk on the path of brotherhood, and mentioned his meeting with the Patriarch of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church and Members of the Holy Synod. As Christians, our vocation and mission is to be a sign and instrument of unity, he said. Bulgaria and Saints Cyril and Methodius The Pope also mentioned the Saintly Brothers Cyril and Methodius, evangelizers of Bulgaria. They were of Greek origin, but they used their culture creatively to transmit the Christian message to the Slav peoples, said Pope Francis. Even today there is a need for passionate and creative evangelizers, he added, so that the Gospel may reach those who do not yet know it and may irrigate again the lands where ancient Christian roots have dried up. North Macedonia and Saint Mother Teresa The second stop on the Popes three-day Apostolic journey was to North Macedonia. There he said the strong spiritual presence of Mother Teresa of Calcutta accompanied him. Mother Teresa was born in Skopje, the present-day capital of North Macedonia, in 1910. In this small but strong woman we see the image of the Church in that country, said Pope Francis, noting that he had prayed at Mother Teresa's Memorial, and blessed the first stone of a shrine dedicated to her. North Macedonia and the young Pope Francis explained how, with this visit, his intention was to encourage what he called North Macedonias traditional capacity to host different ethnic and religious affiliations, as well as the countrys commitment to welcoming and helping a large number of migrants and refugees. This is a young country from an institutional point of view, said the Pope. Which is why his meeting with young people was so significant. Pope Francis said he invited them to dream big and get involved, just like the future Mother Teresa, listening to the voice of God, who speaks to us in prayer, and responding concretely to our needy brothers and sisters. Pope Francis answers questions by journalists during the flight from Skopje to Rome (AFP or licensors) Answering questions put to him by reporters on the papal flight back from Bulgaria and North Macedonia, Pope Francis touched on topics including relations with the Orthodox Church, Womens Diaconate and... the secret of his own strength and energy! By Linda Bordoni from Andrea Tornielli's inflight transcript During the flight bringing Pope Francis back to Rome after a three-day apostolic visit to the West Balkan nations of Bulgaria and North Macedonia, Pope Francis spent some time chatting to reporters and answering their questions. Impressions of Bulgaria and North Macedonia Asked about his strongest impressions regarding the two nations he has just visited, Pope Francis said They are two totally different countries. Bulgaria, he explained, is a nation with century-old traditions; while Macedonia has century-old traditions but is a young country and has a young people. Commenting on the fact that North Macedonia has recently managed to establish itself as a nation, he said it is symbol of how Christianity entered into the West through the Apostle Paul who wanted to go to Asia, but was called to Macedonia. The people of Macedonia never miss the opportunity to remind us that Christianity entered through their door he said. Bulgaria, he said, suffered much war and violence, and he referred to the 200,000 Russian soldiers who died in 1877 to regain independence from the Ottoman Empire. So many struggles for independence, so much blood, so much mysticism in order to consolidate an identity the Pope said noting that in both countries Orthodox Christian communities, Catholics and Muslims live together. He praised the fact that he saw good relations between the different faiths in both nations and expressed admiration for a profession of respect for diversity and for human rights rather than of tolerance. Where does the Pope get his energy? One journalist asked him where he finds the energy and strength needed to travel and work as he does. First of all I would like to say I do not resort to witchcraft! the Pope said. He described it as a gift from the Lord and revealed that when he goes places he forgets himself and he is just there. He confessed that afterwards he feels tired: I don't tire of travelling. Then I get tired, afterwards. I think the Lord gives me strength. I ask the Lord to be faithful, to serve him, may these journeys not be tourism. And then... I don't work that hard! Relations within the Orthodox Church Asked about perceived strife within the Orthodox Church, Pope Francis underscored the fact that, in general, relations are good and there is good will. He described the Orthodox Patriarchs as men of God. Recalling the words of the president of North Macedonia about the schism of the East he said: Now is the Pope coming to sew up the schism? I don't know. We are brothers, we cannot worship the Holy Trinity without joining our hands as brothers. Cardinal Stepinacs canonization process Regarding the canonization of Cardinal Stepinac, the Pope described him as a virtuous man: that is why the Church declared him blessed. But, he noted, at a certain point in the process there were points that were unclear and said that before signing the authorization for the canonization process, he prayed, reflected and asked for the advice and help of the Serbian Patriarch Irenaeus. He said they established a historical commission as both he and I are interested in not making mistakes; we are interested in the truth. The Pope said some issues are under scrutiny in order for truth to be clear: I am not afraid of the truth. I am only afraid of Gods judgment. Womens Diaconate Noting that in Bulgaria the Pope visited an Orthodox community that has cultivated a tradition of ordaining women deacons to proclaim the Gospel, and that in a few days he will be meeting the International Union of Superiors General, a journalist asked Pope Francis what he has learnt from the Study Commission's report on the Womens Diaconate, and about his thoughts on the issue. Pope Francis created the Study Commission on the Women's Diaconate in 2016. Answering the reporters question, the Pope said the Commission worked for almost two years until it came to a halt due to differences in vision. He said that regarding womens diaconate there is a way of conceiving it with a different vision to that of the male diaconate. Although there are historical documents regarding the ministry of women deacons, the Pope said there is no certainty that their ordination was in the same form and purpose as male ordination. He said the commission did a good job and their conclusions can serve to move forward in the quest for a definitive yes or no concluding that theologians are at a point in which they are studying the various theses. Moving memories After the questions, Pope Francis said he wanted to recall how touched he was to experience the gentleness and meekness with which the nuns at Mother Teresas memorial cared for the poor: they cared for the poor without paternalism, as if they were children () with the capacity to reach out and caress the poor. He noted that in todays world we are so used to exchanging insults: politicians insult each other, neighbors insult each other, even within the family we insult each other. I dare not say that there is a culture of insult he said, but it's a weapon, just as shouting at others, slander and defamation are weapons. The gentleness of the nuns, the Pope said, made me feel the mother Church, and I thank Macedonia for this treasure. Pope Francis concluded recalling the moving experience of celebrating First Communion while in Bulgaria: I was moved because my memory took me back to my own First Communion on 8 October 1944 () The Church looks after children, they are on the margins because they are still small, but they are a promise, they must grow. I felt at that moment that those 245 children are the future of the Church and of Bulgaria. A migrant rests on the deck of a rescue ship after being pulled from the water (AFP or licensors) A new UN report says that more children are arriving in Europe through the dangerous Mediterranean routes than ever before. By Linda Bordoni The report by the United Nations Childrens Fund UNICEF reveals that in the first three months of 2019, about 16 thousand migrants and refugees crossed the Mediterranean to enter Europe. The UNICEF report notes that even although the latest statistics represent a slight decrease compared to the number of migrants registered in the same period of 2018, the percentage of children arriving on our shores has increased from 1 out of 5 arrivals to 1 out of 4. All in all, the report details, the total number of children arriving on European coasts during these months is 3,800. They join the approximately 41 thousand children who are already being cared for in reception facilities in Greece, Italy and the Balkans. Deaths Most alarming, is the data concerning deaths during the Mediterranean crossing: in the first three months of this year, 365 people have died during their journey. Thats over 60% of the total number of registered victims throughout 2018. Regarding assistance programmes implemented by the UN, the report said that between January and March 2019 UNICEF reached almost 5,000 children with child protection interventions. It also assisted almost 2,000 unaccompanied minors who received some sort of treatment and protection in Italy, Greece and the Balkans. It said that a further 15,850 children have regularly attended formal and informal education activities supported by UNICEF, while over 1,000 people have had access to services for the prevention and response to gender-based violence. Abuse "Many young migrants and refugees who have made the journey have suffered abuse, with grave consequences for the their psychological and physical well-being UNICEF Italy said, In particular, almost all women and girls arriving in Italy report forms of sexual violence. Recent research has shown that even men and boys are often victims of sexual violence in the hands of criminal groups that kidnap and imprison them, especially in Libya. Pope Francis has made his call for the protection of the rights, safety and dignity of migrants and refugees one of the hallmarks of his papacy. He has also, repeatedly, appealed in particular for the protection of underage migrants who are particularly vulnerable. Chairman of the National Council (Upper House) of Bhutan Tashi Dorji (Photo: VNA) The visit is made at the invitation of NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, the committee said. Vietnam and Bhutan officially established diplomatic ties on January 19, 2012. The two countries have boasted sound friendship with the regular exchange of congratulatory messages between leaders on the occasion of big events. Vietnam mainly exports tractors and wood furniture to Bhutan. Meanwhile, the AA Corporation of Vietnam and the AdrukA company of Bhutan have jointly invested in a wood furniture manufacturing project in the latter country since 2011. More than 1,430 Vietnamese tourists visited Bhutan in 2018, according to the latters Tourism Council. Bhutan is selective in establishing relations with other countries. So far, it has set up diplomatic ties with only 53 nations. Vietnam has gathered momentum over the past few years to establish itself as the production hub for Southeast Asia and now offers a viable alternative for companies looking to establish their operations outside of China. This is backed by a number of key fundamentals, such as strategic location, business-friendly environment, and competitive labour costs. While Hong Kongs central area will set you back in occupancy costs of $338 per square foot, premium offices in Taipei are 80 per cent lower and, in Seoul, office costs are around 70 per cent lower. With a coastal line stretching over 3,200 kilometres along the East Sea, Vietnam possesses an advantageous geographical location that provides great access to the worlds major shipping lanes. As a result, sea transport has been the most prominent mode of freight transportation facilitating international trade, with the majority of cargo going through the shipping hubs located at either end of the country. The south, with the presence of long-standing ports such as Cat Lai, Hiep Phuoc, and Cai Mep, typically contributes more than half of the countrys total sea cargo throughput while its northern Haiphong counterpart accounts for more than 30 per cent. With an increasing proportion of foreign direct investment (FDI) pouring into the north over the past decade, Haiphong is fast becoming a focal point, providing companies with easy accessibility to transport their goods on a global basis which will create considerable growth opportunities. In light of this backdrop, Haiphong will gear up to become an internationally-recognised trading hub and a driving force for development in northern Vietnam. Located on the main economic corridor, along the north-eastern coastal area, Haiphong is one of five major municipalities in Vietnam, and is set to become the main gateway for import and export for the northern region. Given its proximity to China, only 200km from the border, the city is widely regarded as the China+1 manufacturing base in the ASEAN to take advantage of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Haiphong enjoys a favourable position as a gateway to neighbouring regions and as a part of the countrys coastline, Photo: Le Toan Haiphong has been the spotlight for FDI inflows, garnering attention and support from the central government, supported by a major infrastructure boom and numerous governmental incentives. The Haiphong Economic Zone, which offers companies preferential treatment when they set up operations, is also acting as a catalyst to tempt more investors to the region. The central government has shown its commitment to continue Haiphongs exponential growth by offering numerous special tax incentives, which has paved the way for it to become a foreign investment magnet, as streams of FDI pour into the citys economy. The constant improvement of Haiphongs Provincial Competitiveness Index rating demonstrates the continued efforts of authorities to enhance the business environment, which will further bolster the attractiveness of the city. Recognising that infrastructure is a crucial element to leverage economic development, Haiphong will mobilise its resources to develop modern and synchronous transportation infrastructure, which will improve connections to key surrounding regions. This will contribute to establishing Haiphong as the main maritime trade gateway of the economic corridor in the northern region. The citys infrastructure has undergone significant improvements through the completion of three core projects. These are Hanoi-Haiphong Expressway, Tan Vu-Lach Huyen Highway, and Dinh Vu-Cat Hai Bridge. By facilitating the links to Hanoi-Lao Cai Expressway, these projects will reportedly help reduce the commute time between the northern province of Lao Cai and Haiphong International Gateway Port to approximately six hours. Over recent years, Haiphong had established itself as a core industrial hub in Vietnam. Benefitting from the positive effect of the China-ASEAN FTA and official development assistance from Japan, Haiphong is the preferred destination for manufacturing giants in hi-tech industries. Along with numerous incentives available to interested investors, Haiphong, together with the northern province of Bac Ninh, are transforming the industrial landscape across the northern region. There are many examples of successful port cities around the world, such as London and Amsterdam. When developed in the correct manner, they can drive economic activity and serve as a crucial connection between sea and land transport. Haiphong has all the necessary ingredients to develop into a true global port city. With continued investment in new roads, traffic management, and rail and inland waterways, an increase in labour productivity, efficient administration procedures, and development of supporting industries, we firmly believe that Haiphong has a vision for growth which is set to continue for many years to come. IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde. (Photo: AFP/Saul Loeb) "Clearly the tensions between the United States and China are the threat for the world economy," Christine Lagarde told journalists at a conference in Paris, adding that recent "rumours and tweets" made an agreement between the countries less likely. President Donald Trump jolted global markets on Monday by threatening on Twitter that tariffs already imposed on US$200 billion in Chinese exports to US would more than double to 25 per cent on Friday from their current level of 10 per cent. Also speaking at the Paris Forum event, French Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire warned about the impact of a trade war between the world's two biggest economies. "We are following the current negotiations very closely between China and the United Staters and we want them to respect the principals of transparency and multilateralism," he said. He called on the two sides to "avoid taking decisions that would threaten and would undermine global growth in the months ahead." "Increasing tariffs is always a dead-end and a negative decision for the whole world, for the United States, for China, for the eurozone, for Europe and world growth," he said. China said Tuesday its top trade negotiator will visit the United States for talks with his American counterparts this week. The countries have been locked in talks to resolve tensions that have seen both of them impose tariffs on goods worth US$360 billion. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has described the negotiations as 90 per cent complete but told reporters that in recent days the talks went "substantially backward", which he blamed on China reneging on previous commitments. The draft decision provides for a second feed-in tariff (FiT) programme between July 1, 2019 and December 31, 2021, with rates varying by location. Compared to the second draft, released in February, the latest version has made certain improvements for investors. The first is an extension of the programme by six months, after initial end date was scheduled for June 30, 2021 under the second draft. The second addition is an increase in FiT rates for floating solar power projects by about 5.7 per cent. Third, there is incorporation of a special policy for the central province of Ninh Thuan in allowing certain solar projects with a total combined capacity cap of 2,000 megawatts and achieving commercial operation date by the end of 2020 to be eligible for the extended FiT of 9.35 US cents per kilowatt hour. However, the third draft has removed solar power projects with an integrated storage system from the draft Decision together with the previously proposed tariff uder the second edition. In addition, the third draft remains unchanged regarding the irradiance zonal classification of provinces and cities into four different zones of Vietnam for purposes of the proposed tariff levels, as well as specific tariff rates for ground-mounted solar power projects and rooftop solar power projects and systems. The draft decision of the second FiT programme is proposed to replace the current Decision No.11/2017/QD-TTg on support mechanisms for the development of solar power projects in Vietnam (as revised by Decision 02) of the prime minister providing for the first programme with one single FiT rate of 9.35 US cents per kWh, in effect only applying to solar power projects achieving commercial operation date before June 30. Wide-ranging tariffs Unlike the first format of the FiT, the draft decision proposes varying levels of geographical tariffs according to location and technology, classified by four different irradiance zones and involving a trio of differing solar power technologies. Specifically, it provides for a wide range of tariffs, which vary in the range from 6.67 to 10.87 US cents per kWh. However, under the third draft, there are still significant differences in tariff rates among different zones, provinces and solar technologies. Specifically, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) continues to propose higher tariffs for provinces with lower solar irradiance, primarily the northern provinces of Vietnam. Vice versa, it proposes lower tariffs for locations with higher solar irradiance, namely those provinces in southern and central regions. This change still illustrates the governments policy to diversify the locations for solar investments and navigate energy security priorities across different zones of Vietnam. However, this may have a significant impact on many on-going solar power projects already under development or construction in Vietnam (whether they can achieve actual commerical operation date before June 30 or not given that the majority of on-going projects are being developed in southern provinces and the Central Highlands of Vietnam with higher solar irradiance. Like the second draft, the third separates the six provinces of Ninh Thuan, Binh Thuan, Khanh Hoa, Dak Lak, Gia Lai, and Phu Yen into a new group of irradiance zonal classifications, known as Zone 4. This zone sees the lowest tariff rates, ranging from 6.67 to 7.89 US cents per kWh depending on solar technologies (except for certain projects in Ninh Thuan as mentioned perviously). In relation to energy storage, in the third draft the MoIT is required to formulate regulations and standards on energy storage. Electricity of Vietnam is also required to research and invest into energy storage solutions for power systems to ensure stable operation when connecting and integrating power from renewable energy resources. For the purpose of the tariffs proposed, the third draft classifies solar power projects into three areas. The first are floating projects, defined as grid-connected solar power projects with solar PV panels installed on structures floating on the water surface. The second are ground-mounted solar ventures, defined as grid-connected solar power projects with PV panels installed on the ground, and solar projects with the panels installed on rooftops or civil buidlings with installed capacity of larger than 1MWp. Lastly are solar power projects with PV panels installed on the roof or attached to a building with installed capacity of 1MWp or less. The updated third draft splits solar power ventures in Vietnam into three distinct classifications, Photo: Shutterstock Ninh Thuan policy Following the special policy for Ninh Thuan previously approved under government Resolution No.115/NQ-CP dated August 2018, the draft decision incorporates the same and clarifies the tariff policy for solar power projects in Ninh Thuan. For the provinces grid-connected solar power projects which were already included in power development plans at all levels have a commerical operation date prior to 2021, and with total capacity not exceeding 2,000MW, the tariff will be VND2,086 per kWh exclusive of VAT. This is equivalent to 9.35 US cents per kWh. For Ninh Thuans solar power projects achieving operations between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021, the tariff under the second FiT programme as mentioned above will apply. It should be noted that the draft decision and Resolution 115 are both still not entirely clear as to which specific solar projects in Ninh Thuan are confirmed to be eligible for the extended FiT of 9.35 US cents per kWh. The draft decision appears to indicate a first-come, first-served policy based on actual progress of relevant projects, by setting the total capacity cap of 2,000MW. Its also based on the actual commerical operation deadline before 2021 for relevant solar projects to progress to achieve actual such a date as soon as possible during July 1, 2019 until December 31, 2020 to be eligible for the extended FiT. By including the note on being already in the power development plans at all levels, it appears that the 2,000MW package is meant to be open for solar power projects in Ninh Thuan regardless of whether they were approved for inclusion at a national level or provincial level of such plans, or whether their installed capacity is above or below 50MWp. However, it is not entirely clear what point of time is determined for when specific projects are approved for inclusion in the Power Development Plan for purposes of determining eligible projects. Particularly, it is not clear whether eligible projects had to be approved in the plan prior to August 31, 2018 (the effective date of Resolution 115), before July 1, or another later date during the second FiT programme period leading up to December 31, 2020. Vietnams Industry 4.0 strategy will need a completed legal framework, Photo: Le Toan At the Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 held last week in Hanoi, one of the biggest questions raised was whether Vietnam is now lagging behind the global digital economic waves created by Industry 4.0. How will the Vietnamese economy develop in the future without riding the global digital waves hitting the country? asked Nguyen Trung Chinh, chairman of IT firm CMC Corporation. How will the country seize the vast opportunities given by Industry 4.0 to develop its digital economy to reach into its own immense potential? Digital economy refers to an economy that is based on digital computing technologies. According to Bui Quang Ngoc, vice chairman of IT giant FPT Group, over the past few years there have been almost no specific policies and actions for developing a digital economy in Vietnam. For example, in the public administration, programmes on e-government, e-tourism or e-healthcare have failed to be implemented effectively, Ngoc said. A legal framework on applying IT or developing smart solutions has not been implemented either. There has been a gap between policy and action, and while the concept of 4.0 has been widely talked about, few actions have been made even as the country is bursting with opportunities to develop a digital economy. GREAT OPPORTUNITIES At the forum, Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Vu Dai Thang said that the digital economy is surging in Vietnam, creating major changes in business methods. Vietnam has great opportunities to develop a digital economy because it has immense potential, Thang said. He cited a recent survey by Google and Singapores Temasek valuing Vietnams digital market at $3 billion in 2015 and $9 billion in 2018, and estimated it to rise to $30 billion by 2025. Meanwhile, a recent study by Data 61, Australias data innovation network, showed that Vietnams GDP could rise by an additional $162 billion within 20 years if Vietnam succeeded in digital transformation. According to the Asia Internet Coalition (AIC), with a population of nearly 100 million people, Vietnam is among the few nations in Southeast Asia with the highest speed of digital transformation. Currently, Vietnam has more than 136 million mobile phone subscribers and 54.2 per cent of the population are connected to broad-band wire-based Internet. Vietnam is also one of 17 nations in the world with the biggest number of Internet users. The Vietnamese government aims to turn the country into one of the 10 largest nations in the world producing software and digital content. We think this target will be easily reached thanks to Vietnams strong telecommunications industry, said Do Khanh Ly, AIC representative in Hanoi. Vietnams online advertising market and e-commerce are also developing strongly. According to the Vietnam E-Commerce Association, the countrys e-commerce market is estimated to be over $5 billion now and can double over the next four years, Ly said. The impact of the Internet on the economy is estimated to be equivalent to 2-3 per cent of the GDP, which may increase to 40-50 per cent in the future. At a recent workshop on unlocking the full potential of Vietnams digital economy in Hanoi, Quint Simon, head of Public Policy in Southeast Asia at Amazon Web Services (AWS), surprised hundreds of business leaders and experts by announcing that Vietnam is one of the nations with the fastest growth of 64 per cent per annum in spending on cloud computing. AWS is a subsidiary of Amazon.com that provides on-demand cloud computing platforms to individuals, companies, and governments. I believe that in the near future Vietnam will develop a digital economy successfully. Cloud computing is a favourite in Vietnam, with many enterprises using it, Simon said, explaining that with the cloud, businesses can completely protect their information and prevent it from being stolen. For example, Amanotes, a fast-growing app publisher, currently has hundreds of millions of users. It is typical of Vietnamese businesses with cloud computing, Simon continued. In another case, Masan is also using cloud to manage its stores in Vietnam. It has been a big trend that many Vietnamese agencies and enterprises are seeking our support in cloud applications. NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR 4.0 Deputy Minister Thang said that in order for Vietnam to seize opportunities and facilitate enterprises to benefit from Industry 4.0, the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) is compiling a national strategy on Industry 4.0, which will clarify what the digital economy means, with specific tasks for ministries and agencies. The strategys prime targets are to grab opportunities arising from Industry 4.0, increase the countrys GDP and employment, and attract more high-quality foreign direct investment. With this strategy, Vietnam stands ready to receive new technologies. However, the country will have to adapt many policies to Industry 4.0, said Nguyen Thi Tue Anh, vice head of the MPIs Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) which is drafting the strategy. Under the CIEMs study on the draft, Industry 4.0 would likely raise Vietnams GDP by $28.5-62.1 billion, equivalent to a rise of 7-16 per cent, from now to 2030. The benefits for Vietnam will be huge, far higher than those from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, which will increase Vietnams GDP by 1.32 per cent by 2035, said Dang Quang Vinh, deputy chief of the CIEMs Department of Business Environment and Competitiveness. Besides, Vietnam will be able to generate 1.3-3.1 million new jobs by 2030 thanks to Industry 4.0, said Vinh, who is one of the drafters of the strategy. However, these benefits will only materialise if we have more sturdy policies in favour of the business community. According to the CIEM, if medium-level technologies are applied, Vietnams Industry 4.0 strategy will likely enable the country to see strong growth in many key economic sectors by 2030 such as manufacturing (16 per cent), wholesale and retail (20 per cent or $9.5 billion), agro-forestry-fishery (12 per cent or $6 billion), supply of electricity, gas, and air conditioning (23 per cent), and finance-banking-insurance (14 per cent or $3.5 billion). For example, the manufacturing sector will grow by an additional $7-14 billion based on new technology applications, while the communications and industry sector will climb 77 per cent, or an additional $2.5 billion compared to the scenario where the country fails to follow Industry 4.0. According to the CIEM, new industries arising from Industry 4.0 will be the key growth propellants for Vietnam, such as the Internet of Things and media. They will also support other sectors by raising their competitiveness, revenue, and developing new products and services. The new industries will include e-commerce ($40 billion in revenue by 2030), Artificial Intelligence ($420 million), data analysis ($730 million), cloud computing ($2.2 billion), ride-hailing ($2.2 billion), and fintech ($1.5 billion). Currently, many nations have been developing their Fourth Industrial Revolution strategies, such as Made in China 2025; Japan Resuscitation Strategy; Malaysias My-i4.0; Singapores 23 plans on digital transformation; Indias Smart City Mission and Industry 4.0 Centre; Indonesias Making Indonesia 4.0; and Thailand 4.0. Industry 4.0 offers great opportunities to Vietnam without which, the country will continue lagging behind other nations, said the CIEM study. Taking advantage of Industry 4.0 is the shortest way for Vietnam to turn itself into a modern and affluent nation, and develop into a modern industrial nation in the shortest time. Thus, the country needs to mobilise all necessary resources to implement its Industry 4.0 strategy. A PROPER LEGAL FRAMEWORK At the Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 last week, CIEM deputy director Nguyen Duc Hieu said that it would be difficult to develop a sturdy legal framework to regulate activities related to the digital economy. For example, if an unmanned car causes an accident, who will be largely responsible? Is it the car, the software owner, the car owner or even road designers? We will have to have suitable laws for such cases, Hieu said. According to Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung, several key foundations need to be developed to create an effective digital economy in Vietnam. When we dare to accept new things, new technologies and global talent will come to Vietnam and new industries will appear, Hung said. Then Vietnam will be able to create digital products that can be exported. However, if we dare to accept new things but only follow other nations, we will not be able to create many added-value products, Hung continued. According to him, the digital economy in Vietnam must be supported by a good ICT infrastructure characterised by 5G technology and each person in the country owning a smartphone. Second, we need to have good policies to spur digital economy and technology. Internet in Vietnam must be globally competitive so that Vietnamese people will not go overseas to establish their enterprises any longer and more foreign enterprises will come to Vietnam to do business, he said. Third, the government needs to develop an initial market for IT enterprises by spending more on IT products and e-government, Hung added. Finally, human resources training needs a boost in foreign languages and IT education in schools and universities. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) welcomes Timothy Geithner, former Secretary of Treasury of the US and now President of Warburg Pincus (Source: VNA) PM Phuc said that Vietnam-US relations are developing well in all fields, noting that Vietnam considers the US one of its most important partners, and wants to enhance the bilateral comprehensive partnership, especially in economics, trade, and investment. He affirmed that Vietnam always does its utmost to improve its business and investment environment and pays attention to removing difficulties for foreign investors, including those from the US. Geithner informed the host that Warburg Pincus has invested in five projects in Vietnam, with two in the financial field. According to him, Vietnam has succeeded in economic reform and improving its business climate, thus creating optimism among investors. In the context of a complicated international situation, he expressed his hope that Vietnam will maintain its reform and integration efforts and create more favourable conditions for foreign investors in finance, banking, and e-payment. Acknowledging the guests proposals, the Government leader said that Vietnam always attaches importance to its goal of macro-economic stability to enhance confidence among enterprises and investors. Over the last three decades, Vietnam has transformed from one of the poorest countries in the world to a dynamic market economy enjoying strong economic growth. This is largely thanks to the liberalisation of the Vietnamese economy, and the doi moi market-oriented policy reforms that began in the late 1980s that started opening the country to investment and trade. Nowadays, the Vietnamese government continues to show strong commitment to creating a more business-friendly environment, a vibrant investment climate, and spur foreign trade. The latter is evident in its high participation rate in free trade agreements (FTAs). As Vietnam continues to further integrate into global supply chains and move into new trading markets, thanks in significant part to those FTAs, it will need to sustain progress on improving the business climate to fully reap the benefits of these opportunities. As part of the governments vision to propel the Vietnamese economy forward, policymakers have begun to push initiatives centred around taking advantage of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This refers to the rapid development of disruptive and highly sophisticated technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and 5G networks that are transforming social, economic, and political landscapes around the globe. This wave of technology is expected to revolutionise economies and labour markets. Governments are scrambling to promote policies that encourage innovation and the development of infrastructure needed to foster Industry 4.0. The term first gained attention in Vietnam in 2016 following the World Economic Forums annual meeting entitled Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Since then, Vietnamese policymakers have put greater emphasis on maximising opportunities from Industry 4.0. In fact, last year the Central Institute for Economic Management rolled out a strategy with targets and action plans for different ministries and sectors. As Vietnam has already begun its own technological transformation from a chiefly agricultural economy into a manufacturing hub, and with a young population 70 per cent of the population is currently under 35 years of age the country is well suited to profit from such a revolution and is poised to adapt quickly to rapid technological changes. Furthermore, the potential for Vietnam to be a destination for diverted supply chains that have been impacted by the protracted US-China trade row represents another way in which the country is well positioned to capitalise on Industry 4.0. Nevertheless, while offering a wealth of opportunities in Vietnam, Industry 4.0 could also bring costs if the country fails to foster a business climate that encourages innovation and change and thus lags behind in the technological race. Vietnam is blossoming into a major manufacturing hub , Photo: Le Toan REMOVING OBSTRUCTIONS A strong business climate is imperative if Vietnam is to take advantage of the opportunities provided by Industry 4.0 and further global integration through FTAs. While the country has made significant progress in creating a more business-friendly environment since the birth of doi moi, there are still several major barriers that are inhibiting foreign direct investment (FDI) and stunting the domestic private sector. First, the red tape associated with administrative procedures represents an important hindrance for many businesses, foreign and domestic alike. Preferential treatment for state-owned enterprises (SOEs) is another major impediment. Finally, despite significant improvement, inadequate physical and technological infrastructure needs to be addressed. A complicated network of administrative systems creates a burden which can make it difficult for businesses to register, pay taxes, and perform other administrative tasks. Moreover, businesses often have to deal with multiple agencies that may lack cohesion in policy procedures. Many firms have reported a large number of regulatory inspections. Although the government has taken concrete steps to streamline procedures and strengthen institutional frameworks, continued progress will need to be made in order to further boost FDI and new business registrations. Public policy focused on easing the costs of doing business is essential for promoting a more business-friendly environment. Reports suggest that businesses choose to avoid the Vietnamese court system due to concerns about bribery, and their belief that the courts are neither independent institutions nor efficient in settling disputes. Companies interested in investing in Vietnam also have to assess their exposure to corruption risks, which could deter businesses from setting up shop or partaking in more complex forms of FDI, such as mergers and acquisitions (M&A). A crucial step in boosting the business climate will be for the government to level the playing field for the private sector. While the government has prioritised the equitisation of SOEs, in 2018 it failed to reach its target of at least 85 businesses. Finally, insufficient infrastructure remains another key shortcoming in creating a more flourishing business climate. Although Vietnams infrastructure has improved significantly over the last several decades, energy, transport, and communications infrastructure remain weak. Transportation infrastructure projects need to focus on the best ways to connect growing industrial sectors and relieve transport bottlenecks and traffic jams. Moreover, efforts need to focus on bolstering electricity infrastructure and diversifying energy sources away from an overreliance on just hydropower. Communications and IT infrastructure needs to be improved, especially since the majority of small- and medium-sized enterprises still have limited access to new technologies. Public-private partnerships could be one method of building infrastructure, while experienced private companies could be pivotal in integrating technology and training employees in new technologies. HEADING FORWARDS Beyond what is at stake in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Vietnam has plenty of other reasons to continue cultivating a stronger business climate. For one, Vietnam is a highly trade-reliant economy, which makes it more susceptible to a global economic slowdown. In addition, downturns in the tech sector could also drag on economic growth, given the importance of semiconductors and electronic parts exports. Diversifying the economy as well as sources of FDI will be critical for the country to boost its long-term growth potential. South Koreas Samsung is currently the largest single foreign investor in the country and accounts for more than one fifth of total exports, reflecting the countrys overreliance on the electronics industry to buoy growth. Second, Vietnams participation in global value chains is dominated by foreign-invested enterprises, while domestic businesses are hardly integrated at all. The integration of domestic private small- and medium-sized enterprises into global value chains will be imperative to sustaining economic growth and avoiding the middle-income trap. In short, Vietnam is a success story for how an economy can quickly change if business-friendly and market-orientated reforms are implemented. The country has become a hotspot for FDI and its high participation in FTAs has strengthened its trade relationships and opened up new export markets. While a lot of progress has been made, there is still some way to go particularly relating to an unequal playing field favouring SOEs and poor infrastructure. Addressing these shortcomings would boost business activity and FDI, and ensure that Vietnam benefits from the arrival of Industry 4.0. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (second from right) takes a look at the new VinFast car at the Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, in his speech at last weeks Vietnam Private Sector Economic Forum 2019 in Hanoi, impressed more than 2,500 entrepreneurs in the National Convention Centre by appealing to the consolidation of confidence among people, privately-owned enterprises (POEs), and the government via a healthy, fair, and transparent business climate. We will continue creating the best conditions, resources, and opportunities to the private sector to develop further, with the keywords of creating equality, encouragement, being protected, and offering opportunities, PM Phuc stressed. Referring to equality, the prime minister wishes to see that the private sector is equally treated before the law and in competition and allocation of resources with other economic sectors. He also wants POE assets to be protected, with freedom in business given to them under the law. At the same time, PM Phuc asked that POEs, especially those with social responsibility, are given encouragement by the government, while also being afforded opportunities in access to resources and technologies. It is expected that over the next few days, the government will release a resolution on developing the private sector in Vietnam. Current government policy is to build up multi-sectoral economy, in which the private sector plays an important part. The sector is creating 45 per cent of GDP and 30 per cent of state budget, and using 85 per cent of Vietnams labour forces. Phung Quoc Hien, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly, told the forum that with the sector growing rapidly over recent years, the National Assembly and the government will fuel their development with new policies which can help them out of difficulties. All the new policies are in line with Resolution No.10-NQ/TW of the fifth plenary of the 12th Party Central Committee in June 2017, which defines the private sector as an important impetus of Vietnams economy, Hien said. According to him, the National Assembly and the government are revising laws on local government organisation, enterprises, investment, land, securities, and intellectual property. They will be revised this year so that obstructions of enterprises and investors will be removed. Enterprises will find it more favourable to join and leave the market, with lower costs, Hien said. For example, the Law on Investment will be revised, in which the definition of business conditions must be clarified so that the concept can be distinguished from technical standards for business. Over recent years, sub-licences and the vague definition of business conditions have made it difficult for localities to attract more investment, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI). A SPECTACULAR SURGE The resolution of the fifth plenum of the 12th Party Central Committee affirmed the need to promote the private sector to be an important propellant of Vietnams socialist-oriented market economy. This is an important milestone given that private businesses experienced volatile growth in the past. The resolution aims at one million active POEs in 2020, 1.5 million in 2025, and two million in 2030. It also sets targets of the private sector contributing 50 per cent of GDP in 2020, 55 per cent in 2025, and 60-65 per cent in 2030. In the pre-1986 command-based economy, POEs were not officially recognised. In 1986 the doi moi policy was launched, under which the private sector was officially recognised as part of the economy. Gradually, the sector was broadened. Subsequently, the revised Law on Enterprises 2014 has triggered a boom in the development of POEs in Vietnam. According to the MPI, the number of active POEs rose from 324,700 in 2011 to 561,000 in 2017, and then 715,000 as of August 2018. Last year saw the establishment of 131,275 enterprises registered at $64.26 billion, up 3.5 per cent in the number of enterprises and 14.1 per cent in capital, as compared to 2017. Alongside that, operating enterprises increased their capital by an additional $104.7 billion. Also, over 34,000 enterprises resumed operation, up 28.6 per cent on-year. In the first four months of 2019 the economy saw a record four-month number of over 43,300 newly-established enterprises, registered with $23.6 billion, up 4.9 per cent in the number of enterprises and 31.7 per cent in capital, as compared to the same period last year. Moreover, operating enterprises also increased their capital by another $37.9 billion. Besides, since early 2019, nearly 17,500 enterprises have resumed operation, up 52.6 per cent on-year. Total investment ratio by POEs in the economys total development investment has continued to climb, from 38.7 per cent in 2015 to 43.3 per cent last year. The private sector has contributed remarkably to GDP, at 43.22 per cent in 2015 and 45 per cent last year. It also holds 30 per cent of Vietnams industrial production value, nearly 80 per cent of total retail and service revenue, and 64 per cent of total transported goods. Thus, growth and expansion of the private sector has contributed tremendously to the economic achievements in Vietnam over the last decade, said PM Phuc. DISCRIMINATION IN TREATMENT Dinh Ngoc Lam, director of a cocoa production firm and farm in the Central Highlands, told VIR that it took years for his company to get hundreds of signatures from a range of state officers, ministries, agencies, localities, districts, and communes for a plot of land used for planting cocoa trees. Its a waste of time and money. I had lost a lot of money before being able to put our company into operation, with our investment certificate granted months after I had already met all necessary conditions, Lam said. Despite the governments efforts to cut down and simplify administrative procedures, enterprises like ours are still suffering from these complicated procedures. Meanwhile, another big investor with a forestry project nearby found it quite easy to obtain an investment certificate, which was granted within just a few days, he said. According to a recent survey by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, POEs remained the most disadvantaged group. In 2016, more than 38 per cent of businesses claimed that the favouritism of provincial authorities toward state-owned enterprises (SOEs) caused difficulties to their firms business operation, up 6 per cent against 2013. More than 42 per cent of businesses agreed with the statement that the provincial authorities seem to prioritise foreign direct investment attraction to domestic private sector development, up 14 per cent against 2013. Le Duy Binh, an economist at development consultant and policy analyst Economica Vietnam, said that the governments past economic strategies to assign a leading role to SOEs has held back POEs from fully exploiting opportunities of global integration. The government has sheltered SOEs from competition through preferential access to resources and restrictions on market access for POEs State economic groups were granted preferential treatment in access to land, export quotas, credit, and government procurement contracts including favourable tax rates, Binh added. SEEKING MORE INCENTIVES Vu Duc Giang, chairman of the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association, told the forum that the local garment and textile industry will likely earn an export turnover of $40 billion this year, up from $35 billion last year, and even $100 billion by 2035. But amid fierce competition from textile and garment producing nations, how can the Vietnamese textile and garment industry develop and attain more profit? We need a new impetus for the industry to develop further, he said. One solution involves revisions of the value-added tax policy for textile and garment firms expanded projects, in order for the industry to encourage more investment into the sector. Vo Quang Hue, deputy CEO of Vingroup, proposed that the government create more incentives for POEs. Policies in encouraging investors to fund high technology and supporting industries must be created, Hue said. Experiences from our co-operation with foreign partners show that these policies are quite necessary. Meanwhile, Truong Gia Binh, head of the Board on Private Economic Development Research under the prime ministers Council for Administrative Reform Consultancy, proposed that the government assign tasks to POEs. The task must be big. For example, POEs can construct the north-south high-speed railway or Long Thanh International Airport. If the government assigns POEs to implement these projects, the time for completion may be less than 10 years, not 30 years. According to MPI Minister Nguyen Chi Dung, the government should take more drastic action to spur on the development of POEs. The northeastern province of Quang Ninh has lured many big private enterprises for projects, including Van Don Airport. This is a strong indication of the capacity of Vietnamese enterprises, he said. It is the governments mission to develop ecosystems and support the private sector in the course of applying advanced technology in production. I think this is the right way for Vietnamese enterprises to learn and reach par with their foreign peers. Swedish Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde (Photo: VNA) Linde made the pledge during her meeting with Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh in Hanoi on May 8, which took place within the framework of the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree. Sweden will also back Vietnamese small- and medium-sized enterprises, while assisting the country in building policies, developing infrastructure, and training personnel to meet the requirements of the fourth Industrial Revolution and the digital economy, she said. The minister affirmed Swedens support to Vietnam at the European Commission (EC) in signing and ratifying the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. The Swedish Government and businesses always give deep sentiments and attention to Vietnam, she said. The two ministers noted with pleasure the development of the bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on issues of shared concern. Anh said the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) will fulfil its role as a bridge between enterprises of the two countries for mutual development, while closely coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies in setting forth development orientations in the spheres of common concern such as energy, supporting industry, retail, and vocational training. He pointed out, however, that the bilateral trade has yet to match potential of both countries. In 2018, two-way trade reached only 1.5 billion USD, a year-on-year rise of 14.34 percent, of which Vietnams exports stood at 1.16 billion USD, up 18.99 percent, and imports hit 345 million USD, up 1.09 percent. According to the MoITs European-American Market Department, in the first quarter of 2019, Vietnam exported 324 million USD worth of goods to Sweden and imported 72 million USD from the country, with total revenue up 4.37 percent against the same period last year. Sweden now ranks 33rd among 131 countries and territories investing in Vietnam, with 67 valid projects valued at over 365 million USD. Currently, the European country is running many business projects in Vietnam, covering various realms like retail, machine manufacturing, electricity, IT and telecommunications, urban transport infrastructure, electronics, food processing, and education-training. On the occasion, Anh attended the Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum and chaired the Vietnam-Sweden Business Summit. Foreign ownership limit changes and adjustments to corporate income tax are some of the factors in profit drops by the major drugmakers On April 29, the annual shareholders meeting of Vietnams third-largest domestic drugmaker Domesco (DMC) took place in a heated atmosphere with a series of questions for leaders, focusing on the strategy to maintain the companys market share. The queries were raised as DMC garnered lower-than-expected results in the first three months of the year, following poor business performance in 2018. According to the first-quarter financial statement, DMC made net revenue of VND309.68 billion ($13.46 million), up 5.9 per cent on-year. Despite the slight rise, it reported a 4.05 per cent on-year fall in after-tax profit, reaching nearly VND50 billion ($2.17 million). Leaders blamed the tepid profit partly on stiffening competition in the pharmaceutical market, rising input materials prices, and challenges in tenders. DMCs biggest shareholder is now Abbott Laboratories with 51.7 per cent, followed by State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC). This first quarter was also difficult for other Vietnamese pharmaceutical giants including the countrys top two publicly-traded drugmakers, Hau Giang Pharmaceutical JSC (DHG), and Traphaco (TRA). DHG made net revenue of VND767.19 billion ($33.35 million) and an after-tax profit of VND135.17 billion ($5.88 million) between January and March, down 15.55 per cent and 20.94 per cent on-year, respectively. The companys acting general director Doan Dinh Duy Khuong blamed the fall in revenue for DHGs halt in distribution of its MSD and Eugica pharmaceuticals last year, before lifting the foreign ownership limit (FOL) to 100 per cent in July. Under the current rules, if a Vietnamese pharma companys foreign partners hold a 51 per cent stake, this could cause it to be classified as a foreign-invested enterprise, depriving them of the profitable right to distribute medicines of other brands. The profit drop is due to the application of corporate income tax in 2019 of 5 per cent at the DHG plant branch in the southern province of Hau Giang, instead of zero, as in 2018, Khuong said. Last week DHG witnessed a major change in business governance when it announced Japanese pharmaceutical group Taisho Pharmaceutical Holdings had spent over VND2.47 trillion ($107.4 million) acquiring 20.6 million DHG shares, thus increasing its stake in the Vietnamese drugmaker to 50.78 per cent. The move, though paving the way for Taisho to boost its footprint in the lucrative local market, will heat up competition in the Vietnamese pharmaceutical sector. At TRA, though the official result was not announced, the situation is said to be similar. At present, SCIC, Magbi Fund Ltd., and Super Delta Pte., Ltd. are TRAs largest shareholders. with respective stakes of 35.67, 24.99, and 15.12 per cent. Looking back 2018, it was a tough year for DHG, DMC and TRA when they made lack-lustre profit and revenue. Compared with 2017, both TRA and DMC saw double-digit growth. Nguyen Anh Tuan, deputy chairman of TRAs Board of Directors, said, 2018 saw fierce competition in the pharmaceutical market. At that time, drugmakers were waiting for the Ministry of Healths (MoH) circular on drug tenders. We are venturing further into the ethical and prescription drugs (ETC) channel, but the MoH is yet to issue the circular despite a number of revisions. The ETC channel still makes up 65 per cent of the market share. NEW SOLUTIONS The three dugmakers have announced upcoming steps to stand firm, at a time when more multinational corporations (MNCs) are boosting their presence in Vietnam. DMC is to complete all necessary procedures for the franchising project of Abbott products. As planned, franchised products will contribute to DMCs revenue by next year. To keep its market share and achieve a growth target of 6 per cent in 2019 and 7 per cent in 2020, the third-biggest drugmaker will not invest in upgrading the existing factories to PIC/S and EU standards, but instead aims to focus on exports and tenders of key products while signing franchising deals with American and Canadian companies. Similarly, TRA is planning to look at developing the ETC channel, seeking partners and production of franchised products, expanding the distribution network, diversifying products, and boosting sci-tech application in production. Importantly, TRA has kicked off a technology transfer project with South Korean partner Daewoong for its strategic products, at the factory located in the northern province of Hung Yen. This year TRA has set targets of making consolidated revenue of VND2.16 trillion ($93.9 million), and consolidated after-tax profit of VND205 billion ($8.9 million), up 15 per cent and 30 per cent on-year, respectively. Like TRA and DMC, DHG also targets the ETC segment and exports in its long-term development. In mid-April, DHG announced two assembly lines meeting PIC/S-GMP and JAPAN-GMP standards. This is expected to help the company leapfrog its way into the ETC arena and in exports. Boasting a wide network of 28,000 distribution agents at home, DHG is also expanding its export network to 14 countries, including Singapore, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Nigeria, and Indonesia. Last year, the companys export turnover grew 25 per cent from 2017 to VND62 billion ($2.7 million). Furthermore, DHG will boost technology transfer and co-operation with Taisho in upgrading its beta-lactam factory to increase access to the ETC channel and exports to Russia and Moldova. In 2019, DHG aims to obtain consolidated net revenue of VND3.94 trillion ($171.3 million) and consolidated pre-tax profit of VND754 billion ($32.8 million), up 1.6 per cent and 3 per cent on-year, respectively. CHALLENGES FROM FOREIGN RIVALS The targets of the drugmakers will face challenges as domestic players and MNCs are strengthening their presence in the country to cash in on growth potential of drug spending. A recent move from Taisho is obvious evidence, with the Japanese group beginning investment in DHG in 2016 and continuing to increase stakes in the Vietnamese company. Magbi Fund has also showed ambitions that TRA could make a 20 per cent ratio of its revenuew from new products in the next few years. Vietnam is a developing country; thus drug spending will definitely increase. Magbi Fund has a wide network of shareholders who have a strong interest in the local market, said Lee Choong Hwan, representative of Magbi Fund. We commit to make a long-term investment in Vietnam. We now have 3,000 staff in the country and will continue to invest more there. In addition to Taisho and Magbi Fund, MNCs who are members of EuroChams Pharma Group are targeting to join public-private partnership projects in the healthcare sector, including Novartis and GSK. Elsewhere, US-headquartered MSD Group and B.Braun aim to expand local production to reap the incentives from the countrys policies from domestically-produced pharmaceuticals, and to benefit from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and the upcoming EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement. In this trend domestic rivals such as Vingroup, Mobile World, FPT Retail, Digiworld, and Nguyen Kim are also increasingly joining the race. FPT Retail, in particular, has announced an increase in the number of Long Chau drugstores to 70 in 2019, before expanding the network nationwide and aiming to make up around 30 per cent of the market share of the over-the-counter channel in the next three to four years. According to the IQVIA Institute for Human Data Science, Vietnam is named among the emerging markets in pharmaceuticals, and is continuing to be a key driver of growth in the global pharma market. A former Goldman Sachs banker is scheduled to appear in US court today to face criminal charges in File photo of 1MDB logo. (Photo: AFP/MANAN VATSYAYANA) Malaysian and US authorities say about US$4.5 billion were allegedly siphoned from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), a state fund founded in 2009 by then Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak. Since losing a general election last year, Najib has been charged with more than 40 criminal offences linked to losses at 1MDB and other state entities. He has pleaded not guilty. Since 2016, the US Department of Justice (DoJ), in the biggest-ever case in its anti-kleptocracy programme, has filed civil lawsuits seeking to seize about US$1.7 billion in assets allegedly bought with stolen 1MDB funds, including a private jet, luxury real estate, artwork and jewellery. The United States will return to Malaysia about US$196 million in the first instalment of funds recovered from the asset seizures, US ambassador to Malaysia, Kamala Shirin Lahkdhir, said in a statement. We are extremely pleased that this first tranche of assets from this Justice Department investigation is being transferred back to Malaysia, demonstrating the US commitment to return these assets for the benefit of the people of Malaysia, she said. So far, US$57 million has been returned to Malaysia following a settlement reached with Hollywood film production company Red Granite Pictures, which is linked to Najib's stepson Riza Aziz, Malaysia's Attorney-General Tommy Thomas said in a statement. Red Granite had paid the US government US$60 million in September 2017 to settle a civil forfeiture claim over the rights to the 2013 Oscar-nominated film The Wolf Of Wall Street, which the DoJ says was financed with 1MDB funds. A deduction of US$3 million from the settlement was made to reimburse costs incurred by US authorities in "investigating, seizing, litigating and securing settlement of the Red Granite funds", Thomas said. The DoJ is also in the process of remitting another US$139 million, pending the sale of a Manhattan property linked to fugitive Malaysian financier, Low Taek Jho or Jho Low, Thomas said. Low is facing criminal charges in Malaysia and the United States over his alleged central role in the 1MDB case. He has consistently denied wrongdoing and his whereabouts is unknown. The latest money returned by the United States brings the total amount recovered by Malaysia to US$322 million. This includes US$126 million from the sale of a 300-ft luxury yacht allegedly bought by Low with 1MDB funds, Thomas said. Singapore authorities have also ordered a separate return of S$50 million in 1MDB-linked funds to Malaysia, he added. At least six countries, including the United States, Singapore and Switzerland, are investigating alleged graft and money laundering at 1MDB. Carnival Halong made Halong city the place to go during the Vietnamese national holiday Successful international formula According to the Japan Tourism Agency in Vietnam, the number of Vietnamese tourists travelling to Japan has increased six-fold in the last five years. From 55,000 in 2012 to 308,900 in 2017, that is a yearly growth rate of 41.4 per cent. In the first three months of 2018, Japan welcomed 86,300 Vietnamese tourist arrivals, an increase of 16.3 per cent compared to the same period in 2017. This exceeded the number of visitors coming from European markets, such as England and France. In fact, since 2016, Japan has been the leading overseas destination for Vietnamese tourists so why do Vietnamese love Japan so much? Experts and tourism management authorities believe Japans natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, pleasant climate, and flourishing product industry all appeal to Vietnamese tourists. But they also say the countrys distinctive traditional festivals add tremendous appeal. Through the year, scores of festivals are held in Japan. During Tet (Lunar New Year), visitors to Japan can experience O-Shogatsu (New Year Celebration) and have a chance to eat toshikoshi-soba (longevity noodles). Between the end of March to early May, Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing) Festival attracts millions of visitors from all around the world. Aside from the national celebrations such as Tanabata (Star Festival) and Obon festival, Japan hosts thousands of local festivals each year, including summer festivals, autumn festivals, and agricultural festivals, all of which are accessible and inviting for visitors, who can savour a festive atmosphere, sampling traditional foods, playing traditional games, and watching cultural performances. Cultural and traditional festivals play an integral role in making tourism destinations more appealing in the eyes of tourists, not just in Japan, but in many other Asian countries, and in the Americas and Europe as well. It is an effective way for the countries to promote their image and tourism brand. You might see cultural festivals as a "trump card" that gets destinations flashing on the world travel map. Thousands of Vietnamese performers appeared at Carnival Halong Vietnams burgeoning festival scene On the night of April 28, 2018, Sun Carnival Square in the centre of Bai Chay, Halong City, exploded with cheers and applause from thousands of people attending Carnival Halong 2018 an epic show lasting for more than four hours and featuring thousands of local artists and many international performers. This cultural extravaganza, which fused traditional and contemporary art forms, concluded with a spectacular fireworks display and a memorable DJ show, thrilling a huge audience through the night. Co-organised by Sun Group and Quang Ninh provincial authorities, this was the first-ever Carnival Halong, but it was clear from the reaction of the crowd that it has great potential to become a significant cultural event for the northeast of Vietnam home to the UNESCO-protected heritage Halong Bay. International performers also took the stage at Carnival Halong There is no denying the abundance of natural beauty found throughout Vietnam Halong Bay is truly one of the worlds natural wonders. But Carnival Halong 2018 showcased how an innovative and exciting cultural event can add even more appeal to a destination, attracting many more visitors. Industry observers believe the carnival greatly contributed to the impressive tourism growth that Quang Ninh achieved in the first half of 2018, when the coastal province welcomed 7.5 million visitors, an increase of 26 per cent, generating tourism revenue of over VND12 trillion ($521.7 million), up 31 per cent over the same period in 2017. Carnival Halong drew in a massive audience Bouyed by the success, Sun Group and Quang Ninh authorities organised Carnival Halong to once again coincide with Reunification Day and National Labour Day, which this year meant a five-day holiday from April 27 to May 1, 2019. During this time, Quang Ninh province welcomed 600,000 tourists, an increase of 18 per cent compared to the same period last year. For the second year running, Carnival Halongs parade exploded with vibrant energy all along the streets by Bai Chay beach in Halong city. Fireworks will light up Danang's skies once again during DIFF 2019 Lighting up Central Vietnam As the economic and tourism capital of Central Vietnam, Danang has greatly benefitted from the hugely successful fireworks festival, which was first held as a two-night fireworks contest in 2008. Over the years, the event has grown into a much longer festival and has been organised by Sun Group since 2017. The festival, which has been growing in stature for over a decade, will run for five weeks in 2019, making the city a more vibrant, dynamic destination for visitors. According to Tran Chi Cuong, deputy director of the Danang Department of Tourism: During the two months when Danang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) 2018 was being held, the number of tourist arrivals to Danang reached 1,581,558, an increase of 25.54 per cent compared to the same period in 2017. Because of the considerable increase in the number of tourists, accommodation occupancy achieved 70-90 per cent during the festival in spite of a rise of 7,355 rooms compared to the same period in 2017. With the aim of making DIFF a world-class festival, Sun Group has spearheaded product development in association with private enterprises and local authorities. As a result, the fireworks displays have become more and more spectacular. With eight of the worlds best pyrotechnics teams joined by thousands of artists, dancers, and performers, and many more cultural events street carnivals, food festivals, and more held throughout the city, the festival continues to wow audiences each year, showcasing Danang and attracting more visitors to Central Vietnam. A street carnival during Danang International Fireworks Festival According to one local tourism insider, Since Sun Group first launched the fireworks festival, DIFF has steadily matured into a really spectacular city-wide festival that creates a huge buzz that not only generates tremendous revenue for the city but I believe also inspires everyone to make Danang an even more vibrant, attractive destination. Each festival makes a stronger impression than the last. The long-term success of DIFF, now in its second decade, and the recent splash made by Carnival Halong both highlight how Vietnam can prosper from well-developed cultural festivals. To develop these festivals requires a shared vision from all associated stakeholders as well as major strategic investment. However, it is clear that there are great rewards to reap when such a spectacular event puts a destination on the world tourism map. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (fourth from left) breaks ground for the dairy farm project developed by TH True Milk in Thanh Hoa province. (Photo: VNA) The project was built at the total cost of 3.8 trillion VND (162.6 million USD), covering 1,354 ha of land in Yen My and Cong Binh communes. It has a herd of 20,000 cows and a processing plant designed at a capacity of 300 tonnes of milk per day. TH True Milk will also develop material areas in Cam Thuy, Tho Xuan and Thach Thanh districts, and work with local farmers to ensure a stable food supply for dairy cows. Besides creating high value-added agricultural products, the project is expected to generate stable jobs and income for thousands of local labourers, enhance state budget collection, and speed up economic structure shifting. Advanced technology will be applied for sewage and emission systems, while trees will be planted to reduce the environmental impact. At the ceremony, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong laid stress on the projects significance, saying that it plays an important role in agricultural restructuring. Once operational, the project will increase its total herd to 42,000 cows and total milk productivity to 166,000 tonnes per year, he said. Meanwhile, Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Nguyen Dinh Xung asked local authorities and people to join hands with the investor to remove bottlenecks in land clearance and administrative procedures. Competent agencies must ensure sufficient power and water, as well as carry out preferential investment policies so that the project can be put into operation soon, he said, adding that the investor should mobilise resources and comprehensively implement economic and technical measures for sustainable development. After escaping from modern slavery on a Malaysian fishing vessel and in a palm oil plantation in 2010, Prum Vannak, an artist from Battambang province, has published a graphic memoir of his experiences as a victim of human trafficking. Vannak partnered with Australian film director and co-author Jocelyn Pederick to tell the story of The Dead Eye and the Deep Blue Sea, which was published by Seven Stories Press in June 2018. The book follows Vannaks journey from crossing the Thai border illegally seeking work to being kidnapped, tricked, and sold into forced labor and involuntary servitude. The book also serves as a warning to Cambodians and the rest of the world that neo-slavery on the sea exists. It has been about nine years since Vannak was rescued by a human rights organization and sent back to Cambodia from Malaysia, but he said his memory of his time at sea is a wound that will never heal. "I could not forget that, and I opt for doing housework and drawing to detach myself from that bad memory," he said. Life on the Fishing Boat In 2006, hoping to secure enough money for his wife to safely give birth, Vannak, crossed the border illegally anticipating he could get a job in Thailand. But he was tricked and sold to work as a slave on the fishing vessel for three years and seven months. According to Vannak, the laborers on the vessel were from Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar, and people were communicating in Thai. The laborers were classified into two categories: the salaried men who could return home, and the unpaid men who were held against their will. Vannak fell into the latter group. "For those who paid tax [employment fee], they got a salary and could return to the land, but for those who have been sold like us, [we] could not get a cent," he said. He added that on the vessel two or three meals were served per day, always seafood. Once in a while the workers could have chicken or pork. But the food was the least of his worries, as he was made to work up to 20-hour a day, allowed little sleep, and suffered under the crushing weight of violence used by the vessel's manager and the security crews on the workers, or between one worker and another. "Violence is used when we fail to follow orders and they targeted [slave] workers," he said. "The boat was full of conflict, fights, and murders", he added. Vannak said when a worker fell ill, the manager kept their eyes on them for a few days. If they could not recover, they would be beheaded, or tossed into the ocean. Workers outnumbered the manager and the security crew, but they could not fight back because they were placed with different nationalities to limit communication. To avoid being slapped or punched by the manager or the security crews, Vannak chose to do extra tasks like sweeping the boat or watering it when the weather was hot to prevent the boat from cracking. Likewise, to protect himself from other workers, Vannak tried to maintain a good relationship with them by giving them free tattoos. He produced tattoo ink by mixing toothpaste and coal. Seahorses Used as Currency Workers could get free methamphetamine from the manager or bought it from small boats coming to collect fish. Money was not used in the trades. Instead people used dry seahorses as currency, which are used in traditional medicine on the land. Vannak said workers used the sea creature to trade for drugs, liquor, cigarettes, snacks, or soda. Seven seahorses could trade for a bottle of wine, five for a pack of cigarettes, four for a snack or a bottle of soda. Vannak and other workers hid small seahorses when they found them and kept them for trading. If they found bigger seahorses, they were supposed to give them to the manager. But most of the time when the manager saw the workers with seahorses, they would take them. Crocodile in Water, Tiger on Land The situation on the boat became unbearable for Vannak, so he and the other workers planned a midnight escape by jumping into the water with a box of fish sauce each and swimming to the shore when the boat was about 4 or 5 kilometers from the coast. He tied one hand to a fish sauce container to provide buoyancy and another to a knife to cut fishing nets and to protect himself from sharks. With the help of the current they managed to reach the shore after about 20 minutes. After reaching the shore, they ran into the forest and stayed there for the night. The next day, they met a Thai who transported them by boat to the local police station. But the tragedy did not end there as later the police brought them to work at a palm oil plantation. Vannak assumed that they were sold by the police because he saw the police accept money from someone at the plantation, he says. According to Vannak, several months later he was hospitalized after being attacked by a Myanmar worker who had also attacked another Khmer worker Vannak was trying to help. At the hospital in May 2010, he was rescued by a human rights organization and sent back to Cambodia. His wife thought Vannak had died as he had not contacted home in more than four years Book Tour in the US The authors will go on tour in New York (May 7-12), Washington DC (May 12-17), and Los Angeles (May 18 -21) to promote the book. "The publisher, Seven Stories, has given us an opportunity to come to the US so that Vannak can talk to people about his story, share his story, and promote the book to the American audience, said Pederick. So, our hope is that people hear his story and are interested in buying the book. And I suppose in addition to that we learn about the issue of men who are working on the vessels in Southeast Asia, she said. The book was used as a textbook in the course of Art and Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles. "There has really never been a book made like this, and certainly one that is told from the perspective of a survivor and illustrated with detailed illustrations. So it is a very unique story and we have been really overwhelmed with how well the book has been reviewed," she added. Although the book is only available in English initially, Vannak hopes Cambodian readers can understand the story through his drawings. Pederick said Vannak spent almost four years finishing the illustrations and the book took more than six years to get published. She hopes she can get some funding from sales of the book or find a partner in Cambodia to translate the book into Khmer in the near future. Human Rights Watch has called on Prime Minister Hun Sens government to drop cases against more than 20 officials of the now-dissolved Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) who are being investigated for allegedly violating a Supreme Court ruling that banned party members from politics for five years. The CNRP, which was the largest opposition party in Cambodia, was dissolved by the Supreme Court on November 16, 2017 over claims that the party, with the backing of the United States, sought to topple the government. The United States denied the allegations. In a statement on Tuesday, Human Rights Watchs Brad Adams said: The Cambodian government continues to harass numerous opposition officials in the courts and to threaten them with prison time long after the main opposition party was unjustifiably disbanded. The government should immediately end the political harassment campaign against the CNRP and drop this latest batch of absurd court cases, he added. Five CNRP officials appeared at the Battambang provincial court on Wednesday. Heng Luy, the court spokesman, said the court was following up on complaints that had been filed by police officers. What they think is up to them. But according to the law, it must be done in this way. If we dont do that, it means that we are doing something wrong. How can we know what is wrong and right if we dont ask them? he said. Ton Samorn, former CNRP Wat Kor commune chief, who appeared at the court on Wednesday, said the questioning had focused on a meeting held at a noodle shop. They want to weaken out mental capacity by not letting us walk, know, and hear about anything. They always do that. Its a mindset and intention of the communists, he said. Dozens of opposition supporters gathered outside the court on Wednesday during proceedings and without incident. Some 200 Kampuchea Krom asylum seekers who fled Vietnam claiming persecution have called on the United Nations Refugee Agency to speed up their applications. Advocates for the asylum seekers said the group, who are from a Khmer ethnic minority group living mostly in southern Vietnam, faced numerous challenges in Thailand, including living as undocumented immigrants while their applications were processed, risking refoulement to Vietnam. Prak Sereivuth, president of the Khmer Kampuchea-Krom Federation (KKF), a lobby group, led a delegation to Washington last week to advocate for the asylum seekers rights. He told VOA Khmer that third-country resettlement has proved difficult for the group. "The refugee issue, as we inform the US Department of State, is that they will help intervene with the United Nations Refugee Agency in Bangkok. How much they can do, we dont know. They will talk, and also we tell them about 205 Khmer Krom people in Thailand, some of them are recognized as refugees, yet they have not been sent out to a third country. There are still fully stuck over there. And some of them are asking for interviews and be assessed as to whether they are refugees or not, and a small number are not recognized as refugees," he said. Tran Mannarinh, the KKFs director of planning, said the lack of official documentation of the group had effectively rendered them stateless. Vietnam mistreated us so we fled to Cambodia and Cambodia just gave us empty words, causing problems for the Khmer Krom, who fled to Thailand, he said. Thach Soong, 59, fled his hometown in 2001 with his five children after he says they were targeted by the Vietnamese authorities. "Because I cannot live in my homeland in the Khmer Krom territories, we know that Vietnam is always looking for us as they accused us of being provocative to national social stability. We were accused of being traitors because we made a demand for religious freedom and human rights," he said. Soong was fortunate to be one of the group who were granted asylum in 2014 after many years waiting for his case to be processed, but he has yet to be resettled in a third country. Thach Thanh Hoang, 37, a former monk, said Vietnamese government religious authorities routinely tried to suppress the Khmer Kroms religious freedoms. Khmer Krom practice Theravada Buddhism, which differs from the form of Buddhism practiced in Vietnam. Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch, said Vietnamese authorities regularly persecuted the Khmer Krom and backed up the stories told by the asylum seekers of the difficulties they faced in Thailand. Well, I mean the problem is that Cambodia claimed that it protects all Khmer Krom as the citizens of Cambodia but then what happens is that Cambodia doesnt issue any basic paper work or documents to the Khmer Krom that they need to live in Cambodia and so many Khmer Krom fleeing political persecution, abuses, dont feel safe in Cambodia and so they continue to flee out of Cambodia to Thailand where they seek refugee status, he said. You know obviously we hope that the UN refugee agency supports those claims and many different countries including Unites States and Canada will find a way to protect the Khmer Krom. A UN refugee agency spokesperson Jennifer Harrison in Thailand said careful consideration of the cases must be carried out as not every asylum seeker is necessarily a refugee. We conduct in-depth interviews to determine who is and isnt a refugee according to the refugee definition in international law. Each claim is assessed on its own merit and rejected asylum-seekers can request to have their cases reviewed according to a set appeal process. This intensive process is necessary to preserve the credibility of the asylum process, both here in Thailand, as well as globally, as a key human rights instrument and to ensure a fair and efficient process for those in need of international protection. This year, Russia marks 30 years since Soviet troops withdrew from Afghanistan. The nine-year long military campaign that claimed the lives of nearly 15 thousand Soviet servicemen even today is the subject of a heated debate in Russian society. The upcoming release on May 10th of Russian director Pavel Lungin's Leaving Afghanistan, a film on events the end of the Soviet-Afghan War, are adding to the controversy. VOAs Igor Tsikhanenka in Moscow reports. An autonomous ethnic army inside Myanmar with direct connections to China! In Myanmars Shan State, the United Wa State Army (UWSA) recently celebrated three decades of peace and autonomy since 1989, when the Communist Party of Burma was ousted and the new leaders formed what is now Myanmars largest ethnic faction. With shared culture and business interests with China, the UWSA is seen as an example for smaller ethnic armies also seeking autonomy within Myanmar. Steve Sandford reports for VOA. The U.S. Congress has yet to schedule a vote on ratifying the United States, Canada, Mexico Trade Agreement, or USMCA, which replaces the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA. As VOAs Kane Farabaugh reports, the wait is weighing on U.S. farmers looking for a reduction in tariffs and stabilized prices for their crops. Myanmars release of two journalists on Tuesday came as a welcome surprise to families and supporters, but free press advocates are skeptical the move means real change has come to the nation. The journalists were granted amnesty after spending more than 500 days in prison for covering the government crackdown on Rohingya Muslims. VOAs Brian Padden reports. The Trump administration has lifted sanctions against the director of Venezuela's intelligence service who broke ranks with the government of Nicolas Maduro last week. Vice President Mike Pence also warned 25 Venezuelan Supreme Court magistrates the U.S. will hold them accountable unless they support the rule of law. VOA Diplomatic Correspondent Cindy Saine reports from the State Department. Leading Republican and Democratic lawmakers disagree on what to do about the findings from the special counsel's investigation into U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign. Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Mueller's report found no evidence that Trump colluded with Russia. But House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a top Democrat, said the Russia probe is far from closed. VOA's Zlatica Hoke reports. Guwahati, May 8 (IBNS): The Border Security Force (BSF) troops seized 30 numbers of cattle and apprehended three cattle smugglers in Meghalaya on Monday, officials said on Wednesday. According to the reports, based on a specific intelligence input about cattle laden trucks to cross through Baghmara area and that further these cattle laden trucks will unload near international border for further smuggling into Bangladesh, a special Mobile Check Post was laid by the troops of BOP Baghmara, Ex 141 BN BSF at Baghmara in South Garo Hills district. Later troops deployed on duty observed some vehicles moving rapidly on the Hill Road towards Baghmara. The Mobile Check Post party directed and tried to stop the vehicle near a petrol pump of NH-62 Baghmara, but they did not stop and fled away. After perusing for about 15 minutes, they intercepted the vehicles near Jacksogram village under Baghmara police station on NH-62 and the troops were able to apprehend the driver with vehicle along with two carriers, co-drivers on NH 62 near Jackogram village whereas driver and carriers, co-drivers of the truck had managed to escape. The troops apprehended three Indian nationals along with two vehicles (Tata Eicher) loaded with 30 numbers of cattle. These cattle were meant to be smuggled into Bangladesh. The smugglers were trying to smuggle the cattle from the unfenced area but the vigilant BSF jawans foiled their attempts. Resultantly the smugglers have also tried to smuggle cattle through the fenced area by breaching at several instances. All the seized items were handed over to the concerned department for further legal action. It is also to mention that IG BSF Meghalaya has deployed additional troops to fill the gaps for effective border domination. (By Hemanta Kumar Nath, Guwahati) Asia Bibi, a Christian Pakistani woman at the center of a decade-long blasphemy row that sparked violent unrest and spotlighted religious extremism, left her home country Wednesday and is believed to be in Canada. Islamabad made no formal statement and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau refused to confirm her arrival, citing privacy and security issues. Bibi's attorney, Saif ul Mulook, and multiple security sources in Pakistan speaking on condition of anonymity told AFP that Bibi had gone to Canada, with another government source adding she had left "of her own free will." A laborer from central Punjab province and minority Christian, Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 and sent to death row, but acquitted on appeal last year. Her case swiftly became the most infamous in Pakistan, drawing worldwide attention to religious extremism in the country and raising eyebrows among Pakistan's allies. Opposition to blasphemy laws "The United States welcomes the news that Asia Bibi has safely reunited with her family," U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. "The United States uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, as they jeopardize the exercise of fundamental freedoms." Speaking on the floor of the House of Commons on Wednesday, British Prime Minister Theresa May appeared to confirm that Canada was Bibi's destination. "Canada made this offer and we thought it was right and appropriate that we supported the offer that Canada had made," May said. Blasphemy carries a maximum death penalty under Pakistan's penal code. It is an incendiary issue in the Muslim-majority country. Mere allegations of insulting Islam have sparked lynchings and vigilante violence in the past. "It is a great relief that this shameful ordeal has finally come to an end and Asia Bibi and her family are safe," said Omar Waraich, deputy South Asia director at Amnesty International. "She should never have been imprisoned in the first place, let alone endure the constant threats to her life. This case horrifyingly illustrates the dangers of Pakistan's blasphemy laws and the urgent need to repeal them." Bibi has technically been free to leave Pakistan since January, when the Supreme Court dismissed a legal challenge to her October acquittal. Since then, she is widely believed to have been held in protective custody by authorities as she awaited an asylum deal abroad. In November, Trudeau said Ottawa was holding talks with Pakistan about bringing her to Canada, which he said is "a welcoming country." Settling scores Muslims accuse other Muslims in many of Pakistan's blasphemy cases, but rights activists have warned that religious minorities, particularly Christians, are often caught in the crossfire, with such accusations used to settle personal scores. Two politicians have been assassinated in connection with Bibi's case, and she spent much of her prison time in solitary confinement because of fears that she could be attacked by a guard or another prisoner. Islamist groups have regularly called for her to be executed, and activists have warned that she would not be safe in Pakistan. Following Bibi's acquittal in October, the country was gripped for days by violent protests led by the hard-line group Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP), which called for mutiny in the armed forces and assassination of the country's top judges for acquitting her. In the wake of the nationwide protests, TLP's leaders who paralyzed Islamabad for weeks in 2017 with a sit-in were rounded up in a government crackdown months ago and remain in detention. Christians, who make up about 2 percent of the population, occupy one of the lowest rungs in class-obsessed Pakistani society, largely living in slums and working menial jobs as street sweepers, cleaners and cooks. At least seven people were killed and 17 injured after shooting broke out Tuesday at a prison near Guatemala City, according to officials, who said that authorities have regained control at the prison. "Security forces have already entered and have regained control of the center. Regarding the number of deceased inmates, there are seven confirmed. That is a preliminary number," said Carlos Morales, a spokesman for Guatemala's prison system. A spokesman for the volunteer firefighters, Mario Cruz, said eight people were killed and 17 injured. "So far we have already removed seven bodies and we are waiting for the last one," Cruz said. Camilo Gilberto Morales, director of Guatemala's penitentiary system, said the gunfire in one part of the prison appeared to have stemmed from an altercation between inmates. "According to preliminary information, it was a confrontation between an inmate in an alleged state of intoxication, shooting at another inmate," he told local television channel TN23. An Interior Ministry spokesman said officials were still gathering information about the incident. The Pavon prison, some 10 miles (16 km) from the Guatemalan capital, houses more than 4,100 inmates, according to official data. In 2016, a riot at the same prison left 14 people dead. Britain is eager to negotiate trade deals with the United States and China to compensate for leaving the European Union, by far the country's largest trading partner, but it is already discovering the snag of balancing geo-political requests of its traditional ally with the ambitions of Beijing, say analysts and diplomats. Beijing hopes a trade deal will not only make Britain a secure base for Chinese companies looking to enhance their global brand value and make new acquisitions, but will lead to the British becoming advocates within the West for China's interests, say China-watchers. Beijing has "high hopes of the UK acting as a cheerleader for China's global ambitions," according to Yu Jie of Britain's Chatham House. But cheerleading for China will come at the expense of its traditional alliance with the United States. Lure of Huawei The transatlantic spat over whether Britain should allow the Chinese technology giant Huawei to build parts of Britain's fifth-generation (5G) mobile network is a preview of Britain's post-Brexit dilemma. Chinese technology and investment already looks alluring enough for a Britain desperate to fashion post-Brexit trade deals to disregard U.S. security alarm over Huawei and to place short-term commercial gain ahead of its established diplomatic relations with the United States. Washington fears the Chinese telecoms giant will act as a Trojan horse for China's espionage agencies, allowing them to sweep up data and gather intelligence, compromising not only Britain's security, but also America's, say U.S. officials. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reiterated Washington's alarm in meetings Wednesday with Prime Minister Theresa May and British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in London. Pompeo has warned Western allies to shun Huawei or risk losing intelligence-sharing arrangements with Washington. U.S. officials say a failure to reverse the decision will harm Britain's much vaunted special relationship with America. The United States has blocked Huawei from government communication systems, but Washington has not yet banned Chinese telecommunications gear from civilian networks. Thats partly because some American carriers in rural areas already use Huawei equipment. May provisionally gave the go-ahead last month for the Chinese tech giant's involvement in developing the 5G network. She did so in the face of opposition from her security and foreign ministers, amid the dire U.S. warnings. A White House official told VOA the issue will likely be raised during U.S. President Donald Trump's state visit next month to Britain. Australia and New Zealand have decided to block or heavily restrict using Huawei's technology in developing their 5G networks. Huawei denies being controlled by the Chinese government and says its equipment can't be used for espionage. British officials dismiss claims May's decision was made in Britain's search for post-Brexit trade deals. But critics say if Britain is going to strike a trade deal with China after leaving the European Union, Huawei will likely play a major role and London could ill-afford to offend Beijing by blocking the telecom giant. Huawei, one of China's biggest exporters, has pledged to spend $4 billion on British products and services. The critics worry the Huawei decision is part of the pattern of a Chinese government that attaches political strings to commercial deals. 'Easy prey for Beijing' A post-Brexit Britain will be "easy prey for Beijing," fears Ed Lucas, a commentator for Britain's The Times newspaper. He argues London will be in a position of weakness in negotiating bilateral trade deals and there is a high risk of a "hard-pressed and isolated Britain being bossed around by China's Communist Party." "On most fronts, Britain is already quite prepared to grovel," he said, pointing to the visit last month of Britain's finance minister, Philip Hammond, to a conference in China. In Beijing, Hammond praised the "truly epic ambition" of China's Belt and Road Initiative, a massive trillion-dollar trade, investment and infrastructure program launched in 2015 to spur trade along land and sea routes linking Asia, Africa and Europe, that is prompting Western concern. The European Union last month dubbed China a "systemic rival." Britain's previous Conservative government also looked toward China for commercial deals. Hard-pressed from the fallout of the 2008 financial crash, it too was attracted by Chinese investment, and in 2013 became the first Western country to join the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. The move was condemned by the administration of then-U.S. President Barack Obama, with a senior U.S. official complaining to the London-based Financial Times about Britain's failure to maintain a united front and its "constant accommodation" of China. As Britain re-thinks its place in the world, it appears to be hedging its bets when it comes to choosing between Washington and Beijing, says Jonathan Shaw, the former head of cybersecurity at Britain's defense ministry, a critic of May's Huawei decision. "We are facing a new technological Cold War between China and America, and America has asked us to choose," he told a London radio program. Authorities in Cameroon say 165 Anglophone separatists and Boko Haram terrorists have voluntarily surrendered in the past two months, while hundreds of other separatists have stopped fighting. Cameroon's military and groups loyal to the government have been been circulating a video for the past week of an alleged former separatist fighter named Yannick Kawa. The video, divided into two parts, first shows Kawa saying he would never stop commanding his fighters to crush the military. However, the second part shows Kawa telling a crowd that a stranger online convinced him to surrender to the military's Rapid Intervention Battalion, the BIR. "I was in touch with one man online, he started encouraging me," Kawa said in the video. "Then I decided to surrender myself to the BIR. From that day up 'til today, I am free." Cameroon's National Committee on Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (NCDDR) said 56 of the militants who surrendered were from Cameroon's two English-speaking regions, while 109 were from Mora on the border with Nigeria. "The numbers may seem small, but I think we are doing a lot because in addition to these numbers we have, we have hundreds of them who have laid down their arms," NCDDR coordinator Francis Fai Yengo said. Yengo said many who surrendered were in a location he could not disclose for security reasons. Some skeptical Skeptics are raising doubts about the government's evidence. Josue Medoung of rights group Cameroon Watch says it is difficult to believe that those who surrendered are separatists and terrorists. He says the rebels and terrorists are equipped with weapons of war, while the arms authorities presented as allegedly turned over by militants were locally made and used by common criminals. Armed gangs and highway robbers are also stealing, killing, abducting and extorting money from civilians, Medoung said, adding that those who are handing over their weapons may be armed gang members who fear being killed by the military, or even separatist fighters. Medoung says the intensity of the conflict reported in the English-speaking regions within the past two months shows that fighting is still raging. 'Olive branch of peace' NCDDR coordinator for Cameroon's Northwest, Sixtus Gabsa, says many militants are still not convinced that the committee wants to help. "The major problem we have is the problem of confidence building," Gabsa said. "Most of the children in the bushes, even the stake holders, are saying that we are playing tricks to bring the children out and kill them. No. The head of state [president] has given an olive branch of peace. Nothing is going to happen to them." Cameroon's president, Paul Biya, created the committee last year to manage the disarming and reintegration of militants who surrendered. Authorities have promised that Anglophone rebels and Boko Haram terrorists who disarm will get professional job training in rehabilitation centers across Cameroon. However, the rehabilitation centers have been slow to take off, as the rebels don't trust authorities and some centers have yet to be built. Cameroon says at least 1,000 people have died in the three-year separatist conflict, while Boko Haram terrorists have killed more than 1,500 people since its insurgency began nine years ago. The attorney for a top executive of Chinese tech giant Huawei says he will ask the court to stop the case against her because of comments from U.S. President Donald Trump. Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou is under house arrest in Canada awaiting possible extradition to the United States, where she is wanted on fraud charges. Meng and her attorney, Scott Fenton, appeared in a Vancouver courtroom Wednesday. Fenton said previous comments by Trump that he would intervene in Meng's case if it would help U.S.-China trade negotiations showed the case against her might be politically motivated. Fenton called Trump's comments "intimidating and corrosive of the rule of law." Canadian police arrested Meng on a U.S. warrant in December. She is accused of violating U.S. sanctions against Iran and defrauding banks by hiding such activities through a Huawei subsidiary. A Huawai official said Wednesday that Meng's financial activities were done openly and with the full knowledge of the banks. Meng is the daughter of Huawei founder Ren Zhangfe. She has denied the charges. Canada has refused China's demand to free Meng. China arrested two Canadians in December for alleged spying in apparent retaliation for Meng's arrest. Another Canadian citizen sentenced to 15 years in prison on drug charges in China now faces the death penalty. China is also blocking imports of Canadian canola seed. It was a thrilling find for a then-graduate student in linguistics: While conducting research in Jesuit archives in Quebec in 1999, Michael McCafferty discovered a previously unknown manuscript - a dictionary of the Myaamia-Illinois language, handwritten by a 17th century Jesuit missionary. Comprising some 22,000 entries, the manuscript has played a key role in helping the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma revitalize a language not spoken in generations. In Massachusetts, linguist Jessie Little Doe Baird, a citizen of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe in Massachusetts and co-founder of the Wopanaak Language Reclamation Project, is also working from old documents to restore a language that died out a century ago. We have the largest collection of Native-written documents in North America, she said, explaining that 17th century missionaries worked with the tribe to create an alphabet and translate the Bible and other works. The Wampanoag people quickly took the convention of writing and used it as a tool to protect themselves where land transactions and other things were concerned, Baird said. Weve been plugging away at this for about 25 years and now have a dictionary with roughly 12,000 entries, compiled just from those early documents. Today, the tribe boasts two credentialed linguists and a Wopanaak immersion school for preschool through first grades, which Baird hopes will expand in the future. 'Little gossip' Restoring a language is one thing. Ensuring its survival depends on being able to teach it so that it can be passed on to the next generation. And that means making the language relevant to youth today by coining new words and phrases. Tribes approach the challenge in different ways. The Wampanoag pretty much do what English speakers do, said Baird. Communities borrow words, and if somebody at some point decides that something is important, they will give it a name in that language. Some tribes would rather not borrow, said James Andrew Cowell, a linguistic anthropologist at the University of Colorado who is working to preserve Arapaho, an Algonquian language native to the Great Plains. I think this kind of approach preserves their particular perspective on an item, and that way, they feel that their culture and their meaning systems are still present in the language, Cowell said. He gives some examples. The word for computer translates as, It knows everything,' he said. In Arapaho, there is a way to turn verbs into nouns. So, I am typing on the 'It knows everything' means I am typing on the computer. Some words reflect a sense of humor. The word the Arapaho have coined for Facebook is gossip, and for Twitter, little gossip, he laughed.And sometimes, new terms offer oblique commentaries on European/American culture. The word for rice, for example, is maggots. Community effort Coining neologisms is nothing new to tribes, said Ben Black Bear, Sicangu Lakota and founder of the Lakota Studies Department at Sinte Gleska University on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. Back in the early 1900s when they first established the reservation, we Lakota had to create words for all kinds of new things we had never seen until the Europeans came wooden houses, clothing, the automobile, he said. Often, they did so by describing an items attributes. The apple did not exist in nature before we met the Europeans, so we had to create a word," Black Bear said. "When you bite into an apple, the inside is sort of like wet snow. So, we combined the words for wet snow (spanla) and fruit that has skin (tha) to come up with a new term, 'thaspan.'" Another example: Lakota men traditionally wore leggings and a breech or loincloth. When pants or overalls came along, Black Bear laughed, we came up with something that covers the rear end." Today, Black Bear and other Lakota linguists meet annually at the Lakota Language Consortiums (LCC) summer language institute, designed to teach Lakota teachers.In addition to taking a course in developing neologisms, they debate and approve new words just as their ancestors did. Once we come up with a new term, we put out there for the community, he said. If people like them, theyll use them.Its not up to us. To see Black Bear and participants debating word options in video below: Funding challenges Once, Native Americans and Alaska Natives across America spoke as many as 300 languages.But centuries of conflict, forced relocation and forced assimilation caused half of them to go extinct. Whether those languages that survive can survive depends on continued funding from the government and private donors. In 1990, Congress passed the Native American Languages Act, acknowledging U.S. responsibility to help tribes recover and preserve their language, and offers funding through a variety of programs. But tribes complain that funding is uneven and insufficient to meet their needs. This week, the National Endowment for the Humanities, in conjunction with the First Nations Development Institute, announced grants to support language revitalization efforts in 13 tribes across the country. Among them, the Wampanoag in Massachusetts will receive $90,000 to help expand their language immersion school another three grade levels. This is part two of a four-part series. WASHINGTON It was March 2018, approximately five months after U.S.-backed forces had declared victory in the battle for the Islamic State terror group's Syrian capital of Raqqa. And Afghan officials had reason to worry. Intelligence suggested the fallout from that victory had been making its way, slowly but surely, to their country. "There has been a growth in the number of the foreign fighters in the country," then-Afghan national security adviser Mohammad Hanif Atmar said during a visit to Washington. "We're talking about hundreds of them coming from the Middle East through Pakistan." The warning did not go unnoticed. Soon, the concern was being shared by a growing number of countries. IS fighters were coming in increasing numbers, a United Nations report warned in August, adding that those making the journey were "bringing with them skills in handling weaponry and improvised explosive devices, and knowledge of military tactics." "Central Asian fighters tend to feel most comfortable relocating among Afghans of Uzbek and Tajik ethnicity," the U.N. report said. The trend has not slowed. A U.N. report issued in January cited intelligence from one member state that "30% of foreign terrorist fighters have left the Syrian Arab Republic and Iraq for various countries, usually their countries of origin." Such numbers are not insignificant. Despite claims by U.S. and coalition officials that as many as 70,000 IS fighters were killed in the effort to destroy the caliphate, the foreign fighter presence remained strong. "We don't know how many have died. But we can assume that at least 50% survive," Edmund Fitton-Brown, coordinator of the United Nations analytical support and sanctions monitoring team for IS, al-Qaida and the Taliban, told the CTC Sentinel, in an interview published in April. "My personal guess is more. I think probably one would be looking at more like a one-third attrition rate or something of the sort," Fitton-Brown added. It is a concern that has been grabbing the attention of top U.S. officials, as well, long before IS's self-declared caliphate entered its final death throes. "Even if the numbers are small, they always have a disproportionate effect," Lt. Gen. Michael Nagata, director of strategic operational planning at the National Counterterrorism Center, told VOA in 2017. "They bring leadership. They bring skill. They bring experience. And perhaps most importantly, they are totally committed," Nagata said. More recently, senior U.S. officials have been shifting their attention to where IS foreign fighters are likely to make the biggest impact. "In terms of the next phase of the mission, it is continuing to remain vigilant about the ongoing threat of ISIS," a senior U.S. administration official said this past December, using an acronym for the terror group, and pointing to places such as Afghanistan, Libya and Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, long seen as potential landing spots for surviving foreign fighters. Libya Perhaps the biggest concern focuses on Libya, where the coastal city of Sirte was at one time seen as IS's third capital. Once a base of operations for as many as 6,000 fighters, some of them sent by IS leadership in Iraq and Syria, the IS presence in Libya has dwindled, with some analysts estimating fewer than 1,000 fighters remain.Many warn, however, the failed state has been a perfect incubator for IS foreign fighters who likely make up more than 80% of the total force. "ISIS in Libya is back," said Jason Pack, founder of Eye on ISIS in Libya, a nonprofit research organization. "They retreated, regrouped and then reengaged." Pack warned the recent spike in fighting, a result of a military offensive by Libyan strongman Gen. Khalifa Haftar, may make Libya an even more attractive destination for IS fighters. "If I was a jihadi and I saw that he was winning, I'd very much want to be there," Pack said. "Whereas they are not going to defeat [Syrian President Bashar al-] Assad, they may participate in the defeat of Haftar." In early April, IS launched an attack against Haftar's forces in southwestern Libya, claiming six soldiers were killed. IS in Libya may also be finding ways to benefit from the country's history as a transit and resupply point for jihadis active in other conflicts. "It's definitely likely that Libya is being used as a place to move people to try and get to other war zones or rest from battles in places like Mali, especially in the southern part of the country," said Aaron Zelin, a fellow with The Washington Institute for Near East Policy and founder of the Jihadology website. Sinai In neighboring Egypt, IS has established a solid foothold in the Sinai Peninsula, with its branch there long viewed as the country's most dangerous terror group. Boasting an estimated 500 to 750 fighters, it has carried out repeated attacks against Egyptian security forces in the Sinai Peninsula and the Nile Valley. In October 2015, a bomb planted by IS Sinai brought down a Russian airliner, killing all 244 people on board. "It's one of those classic ungoverned territories, and the Egyptians are really struggling to combat the insurgency there," said Colin Clarke, a senior research fellow at The Soufan Center."Some of the tribes in and around the Sinai are a bit more transactional and so less willing to drop a dime on people that may be up to nefarious things." West Africa Islamic State's West African province was established in May 2015, when the then-leader of Nigeria's Boko Haram terror group, Abubakar Shekau, abandoned ties to al-Qaida and pledged allegiance to IS. Since then, the group has split in two, with the larger faction keeping the IS name. "They're the one that we have the most concern about," Gen. Thomas Walhauser, the outgoing head of U.S. Africa Command, told lawmakers earlier this year. "They have been very aggressive," he said. "They now have taken large pieces of real estate in northern Nigeria." Adding to the concern, U.S. officials believe the group has been growing, boasting between 3,000 and 4,000 fighters. It also appears to have started a recruiting campaign specifically to attract foreign fighters. According to SITE Intelligence, the IS-aligned Muntasir Media group began publishing posters online this month. "Each day that goes by, your brothers in Wilayat West Africa become stronger," one of the posters read, in English. "Stand up and join the fight with your brothers in Nigeria." Another, showing a photo of an armed gunman, read, "O Crusaders, Today in Mali and Nigeria. Tomorrow in al-Andalus [Spain]. Without Black Flage [sic] Will Be No Security." Philippines In May 2017, militant Islamists who had pledged themselves to IS attacked Marawi, a city on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao, sparking a five-month battle with the Philippine military for control. Philippine officials said the attackers, mainly local groups that had flocked to the IS banner, got help from the outside, and boasted foreign fighters from Syria, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Kuwait, Chechnya, Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia. According to U.S. defense officials, by the time the battle for Marawi had ended, more than 1,000 fighters had died. Officials also thought that ties between IS-Philippines and IS in Syria had been severed following the death of IS-P's leader, Isnilon Hapilon, in October 2017. Since then, U.S. officials estimate IS-Philippines has been able to rebuild some of its strength up to about 500 fighters though independent analysts say the number is likely closer to 750. As of December 2018, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command told a U.S. inspector general report that "there were approximately 40 foreign fighters, mostly from Malaysia and Indonesia, in the Philippines," adding, "there was no evidence of either an influx or exodus of foreign fighters during the quarter." This is the second in a series looking at the threat of IS foreign fighters. Next up, a look at the threat from the terror group's growing foreign fighter network. Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan showed off their newborn son on Wednesday, describing having a baby as "magic". Cradling his son, wrapped in a white blanket and wearing a hat, Harry and Meghan appeared before a small group of media at St George's Hall in Windsor castle where they held their wedding reception just under a year ago. "It's magic - it's pretty amazing and I have the two best guys in the world so I am really happy," Meghan said when asked how she was finding being a new mother. She said the boy, the seventh-in-line to the British throne who has not yet been publicly named, had the sweetest temperament and was sleeping well. "He's just been a dream so it's been a special couple of days." The baby was born in the early hours of Monday morning, weighing 7 lb 3oz (3.26 kg), but few other details have been given about the birth. "It's great, parenting is amazing," Harry said. "It's only been two-and-a-half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy, to be able to spend some precious time with him as he slowly starts to grow up." The couple said they were about to visit 93-year-old Elizabeth, the world's longest-reigning monarch, at the castle to allow her to meet her eighth great-grandchild. Meghan's mother Doria Ragland is staying with the couple at their home Frogmore Cottage, on the castle's estate. "It will a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mom's with us as well," Meghan said. U.S.-backed Syrian forces have handed over more than 100 women and children of Islamic State (IS) fighters to their home countries, local officials told VOA. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish-led military alliance, said Wednesday that Kazakhstan and Sweden were the latest countries that had agreed to take some of their citizens held in northeast Syria. "We handed over 70 children and 32 women to representatives of the Kazakhstan government yesterday," Kamal Akif, a spokesman for the Kurdish-led administration in northeast Syria, told VOA. "Sweden took seven children on the same day." Officials in Sweden confirmed the transfer of the children. Thousands of IS relatives SDF is holding more than 1,200 IS militants from nearly 50 countries, local officials said. There are also about 8,000 IS family members who have been settled in an overcrowded camp in northeast Syria, the same sources said. The SDF declared victory over the so-called IS caliphate on March 23 after defeating the terror group in its last stronghold in eastern Syria. But SDF officials said they could not bear the responsibility of dealing with IS captives alone and that other countries should step in by taking back their citizens, particularly those who have fought with IS. "Our region is still unstable, so any major turmoil could offer an opportunity for these dangerous individuals to escape prison and pose yet another threat to the entire world," Abdulkarim Omar, co-chair of foreign relations in the Kurdish-led region in Syria, told VOA in a previous interview. European citizens U.S. President Donald Trump also has urged European countries to take back their citizens who had joined IS in Syria. Countries such as France so far have been reluctant to respond. But French officials said they're considering taking in more parentless children who are now in the custody of Kurdish forces in Syria. "We are trying our best to bring back these orphans," French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly told a Monte Carlo radio station Wednesday. "We must first make sure they are indeed orphans." She added that the French "Foreign Ministry had sent representatives [to Syria] to clearly determine these cases so that we can conduct more repatriation operations." In March, France took back five children who had been either orphaned or separated from their parents during the war on IS in Syria, according to the AFP news organization. Local Kurdish officials said that in April, Kosovo took back 100 Kosovar citizens who were children and wives of IS fighters. Pressure at home Analysts believe that many European governments have been under pressure at home to address the issue of children and women left behind by IS militants after the defeat of the terror group. "It is something that they have to deal with sooner or later," said Sadradeen Kinno, a Syrian researcher who follows Islamist groups in the region. "So Europeans feel that if they don't solve this problem once and for all, then they could face challenges posed by these very children in the future," he told VOA. Donald Trump Facebook page Washington, May 8 (Sputnik/UNI) The United States suspects Iran of moving its short-range ballistic missiles by sea to the Persian Gulf, local media have reported, citing unnamed US officials with knowledge of the situation. US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the United States was deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force near Iran to an area controlled by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) as "a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force." This move came as a response to Tehran's alleged plans to carry out attacks on US forces and allies in the Middle East. It is not clear if Iran is going to launch the ballistic missiles from boats or it is going to take the missiles to land and carry out launches from there, CNN specified late on Tuesday. The sources told CNN that the Pentagon was mulling the possibility to send additional weapons to the Persian Gulf, including anti-missile defense systems, such as the Patriot. The Pentagon believes that Iran may endanger the United States and its allies in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar, the sources added. Washington's actions came amid growing tensions between the two countries that started when the United States reimposed sanctions on Iran and put extreme pressure on the trade of Iranian oil in a bid to strike a blow against the country's economy. This standoff has not only been confined to economic confrontation but has extended into politics as well, with the United States having officially designated Irans Islamic Revolution Guard Corps, a branch of the nation's military, as a terrorist group. In response, Tehran has placed the CENTCOM under the same designation. As the Mississippi River continues to surge, flash flooding along Kansas creeks and streams is forcing people from their homes, closing roads and prompting schools to call off classes. Emergency management officials began evacuating an area about 5 miles (8.05 kilometers) west of the Kansas college town of Manhattan around 5 a.m. Wednesday. Evacuations also are underway in part of Marion County in the central part of the state. Near the Oklahoma border, flooding closed a stretch of the Kansas Turnpike. And there were numerous water rescues in Augusta, which is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Wichita. Flash flood watches also are in effect in Missouri, Nebraska, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas, as well as flood warnings along the Mississippi River. Instead of managing livestock with her family on her Floyd, Iowa, farm, Pam Johnson would rather see tractors in her fields. I look outside at the weather and how we should be planting right now to have optimum yields this year, and were kind of stuck, she told VOA, standing in a building on her farm that provided shelter from the intermittent downpours. Johnson says she is stuck not just because of the soggy weather, but also between a rock (trade agreements) and a hard place (tariffs). The soybean tariffs are hurting us here, she said. Tariffs on soybeans, imposed by China in retaliation for U.S. tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, have been in place for a year. The impact on prices, and the bottom line for farmers' income, depends on exports for strong grain prices. As the price of soybeans, in particular, continue to fluctuate, concerns across the agricultural industry have heightened. Adding to those concerns, the U.S. Congress has yet to schedule a vote to ratify the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaces the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA. But Johnson is not one to wait around, either for drier weather or certain economic conditions. She recently decided to hit the road. Thought it was really important to make sure that I got my voice heard and the voice of other farmers about how important trade is to us and how the tariffs are hurting us. And thought it was well worth my time to get away from the farm during planting season to talk to congressmen and senators about what issues are important to us, she said. To send that message, she joined Motorcade for Trade, part recreational vehicle, part moving billboard, sponsored by Farmers for Free Trade. Motorcade for Trade What youll be seeing as were going down the roadway on our Motorcade for Trade are facts about the importance of U.S., Canada and Mexico trade, said Angela Marshall Hoffman, executive co-director of Farmers for Free Trade. It's really an effort to bring attention to whats happening not just in rural America, but whats happening across America, and how important Canada and Mexico trade is to our state, our economy, and most important, to the farms and ranches who depend on that trade across the country. For Hoffman, Motorcade for Trades mission is personal. She owns a ranch in Wyoming where operations are disrupted by the uncertainty created by tariffs and ongoing trade negotiations. Are we going to put in new fence lines? Are we going to wait on a major construction project? Are we going to work with others to maybe run more cattle or not?" she outlined. "What we hear across the board, no matter what industry were in right now, is there is a lot going on with the trade war. Right now, there is desperate need for certainty. These were some of the concerns Johnson was able to deliver during one of her stops, which put her face to face with one of her elected officials. Is it possible to get USMCA passed this session? she asked Republican Sen. Joni Ernst. Out of her control During the roundtable discussion with Johnson and other business owners impacted by tariffs, Ernst said she believes there is strong support in both houses of Congress for passage of the USMCA this year. In a separate interview with VOA, Ernst said she has President Donald Trump's ear on these issues and believes he has farmers like Johnson in mind as negotiations continue. The president does want to see good and fair trade deals, she explained. And so, once those have been negotiated especially once we have Canada and Mexico done once we can seal the deal with China, we continue to work on other trade agreements, new trade agreements, around the globe. Then, we will have an expanding market for our American farmers. While Johnson believes Ernst understands whats at stake, and despite the senators assurances, she has mixed emotions about something she admits is out of her control: congressional approval of the USMCA. My hope is that it is going to be passed this summer, she said. My fear is that it doesnt. Her other fear is also out of her control the weather. What she and her family need most is a few sunny days to dry out the fields, so regardless of tariffs or trade agreements, they at least have an optimal crop to market. VOA U.N. correspondent Margaret Besheer contributed to this report. Officials in Mozambique are scrambling to contain a cholera outbreak in the north of the country after Cyclone Kenneth devastated the area last month. Kenneth, the second cyclone to hit the country in five weeks, destroyed health clinics and contaminated the water supply. The World Health Organization estimates there are "nearly 190,000 people in need of health assistance or are at risk of diseases in Mozambique," U.N. spokeswoman Stephane Dujarric said. Kenneth struck while Mozambique was still struggling to deal with the impact of Cyclone Idai, which hammered the country's central region just weeks earlier, flattening the port city of Beira and killing more than 1,000 people across Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe. According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, cholera cases in Cabo Delgado Province have risen almost five-fold to 64 since the outbreak was declared last week. Medical relief agencies such as Doctors Without Borders, known by its French initials MSF, are supporting the Ministry of Health by providing materials such as tents, water and sanitation equipment for a cholera treatment center in Pemba. "We have two essential goals now: saving the lives of severely sick patients and containing the outbreak," said Danielle Borges, MSF project coordinator in Pemba. "We need to isolate and treat sick people so they recover, and so that they do not contaminate others." About half a million cholera vaccines are expected to arrive in the region in the next few days. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States' and Britain's "special relationship" will flourish despite differences over Iran's nuclear program and China's involvement with the British communications network. In a news conference Wednesday in London, Pompeo said it was evident in his meetings with both foreign minister Jeremy Hunt and Prime Minister Theresa May that "the special relationship does not simply endure, it is thriving." The purpose of Pompeo's trip was to discuss the U.S.-Britain relationship post-Brexit, when Britain is no longer part of the European Union. "It is now exactly the opposite of the time for either of us to go wobbly," he said in a speech at a conservative think tank Wednesday, in which he praised the "special relationship" of the two nations. In regard to Iran, Pompeo said the United States will make decisions about how best to respond to Iran when it sees what Tehran's actions are. Pompeo said the two nations agree that Iran should never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon, but each has a different approach about how that should be accomplished. The United States pulled out of the international nuclear agreement with Iran last year, re-imposing sanctions on Iran because of its nuclear activity. The agreement limits Iran's capacity to produce nuclear fuel for 15 years. Iran announced Wednesday it will begin enriching uranium at a higher level again, something it agreed to stop in the nuclear agreement, if other countries do not shield it from U.S. sanctions. Regarding Chinese communications company Huawei, the United States has asked its allies not to use Huawei communications equipment because of fears China could use the equipment to spy on other nations. "Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace? What can Her Majesty's Government do to make sure sensitive technologies don't become open doors for Beijing's spymasters?" Pompeo asked. But Britain has said it is planning to allow Huawei to participate in a "restricted role" in the building of its next-generation communications network. Pompeo flew to London after canceling a trip to Germany to make a surprise visit to Baghdad, where he warned Iraqi officials about a threat of "imminent" Iranian attacks on American interests in the Middle East. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced earlier Wednesday the country would stop complying with two parts of the 2015 deal U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from last year. The Trump administration, nevertheless, continues to demand that Tehran honor its commitments. Rights groups are calling for greater international attention on the Chinese government due to recent cases of alleged rights abuses, including the latest clampdown in Xinjiang to ban Uighurs, young and old, from fasting or observing Ramadan, which starts this week. They also denounced Beijing's treatment of prominent rights lawyer Wang Quanzhang, who has been held incommunicado since 2015. Fasting forbidden in Xinjiang In Xinjiang, Uighur households are asked to keep an eye on one another and will receive collective punishment if any of them is found to be fasting, according to Dilxat Raxit, spokesman for the exile, Germany-headquartered World Uighur Congress. Even local officials or pro-Beijing Uighurs are monitored to see if they've truly given up their own religious belief and pledged absolute loyalty to the Communist rule, which sees fasting as "a sign of extremism," Raxit said. China is believed to have categorized open or even private displays of religious affiliation including growing an "abnormal" beard, wearing a veil or headscarf, regular prayer, fasting or avoidance of alcohol as "signs of extremism." Across China, young Uighur students in college are asked to report to school canteens in person at least three days a week to have lunch or else they, school faculties and their parents in Xinjiang will be punished or sent to so-called "re-education centers," Raxit added. International pressure? "I fear that more and more people may be forced into re-educational concentration camps as a result of their practice of fasting during the month of Ramadan. The international society should pay more attention to the fact that Uighurs are put under a series of restrictions and systemic persecution during Ramadan," he said. Religious observance has long been monitored by authorities in Xinjiang. Since 2013, there have been more systematic efforts to enact regulations pertaining to all aspects of the practice of Islam there, from monitoring of mosques to individual dress and comportment, according to Michael Clarke, an associate professor at Australian National University's National Security College. "It appears that the 're-education' system will be an indefinite fixture of CCP [Chinese Communist Party] rule in Xinjiang," Clarke said in an email to VOA. "This has been illustrated by the fact that more facilities are being built, different types and categories of centers within the system have been more clearly delineated and that the system appears to be under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Justice," he added. Making matters worse, it appears Uighurs are not being released from the system, but shifted to different categories of internment camps within the system, said the professor. Clarke added it would be ideal if the international community via the United Nations or other multilateral organizations would issue a clear statement, declaring China's internment system unacceptable, or impose economic sanctions on officials in Xinjiang, who abuse human rights. But, he said, "there appears [to be] little prospect for action to ameliorate the situation given China's economic and strategic weight." Condemnation from Washington Last Friday, Randall Schriver, who leads Asia policy at the U.S. Defense Department, accused China of having imprisoned "at least a million, but likely close to three million citizens out of a population of 10 million" in "concentration camps" in Xinjiang. His remarks were seen as some of Washington's strongest condemnation of Beijing's treatment of Muslim minorities. But Monday, China said such comments "are a gross interference in China's internal affairs." Foreign Affairs spokesperson Geng Shuang reiterated: "the vocational and educational training institutions there were set up as a preventive approach to combat terrorism. Relevant measures were taken entirely according to law, which is endorsed and supported by people of all ethnic groups and has produced positive social effects." More rights abuses Rights activists also express grave concerns over China's continued suppression of local dissidents. Albert Ho, chairman of China Human Rights Concern Group in Hong Kong, finds it unacceptable that China continues to keep rights lawyer Wang Quanzhang inaccessible to his family. In late January, a court in Tianjin found Wang guilty of state subversion and sentenced him to four-and-a-half years in prison. According to his wife Li Wenzu, Wang was relocated to a prison in Shandong province in late April, which refuses to arrange family visits on the grounds its visiting room is under renovation. "If you let [his] wife goes [sic] into the prison cell to see him, it could still be arranged. There's no reason why the visiting room while [being] re-decorated can be excused to deprived Wang Quanzhang's rights of receiving visits by his family members," Ho said. "I think it's totally absurd and a blatant violation of the laws," he added. During a meeting Monday with five foreign diplomats, Li demanded Chinese authorities abide by the laws and arrange her meeting with Wang within a month. China and Southeast Asian countries that dispute sovereignty over a strategic Asian sea aim to speed up talks toward a code of conduct that would lower the risk of accidents and help keep the U.S. government out of the fray. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said his country and a bloc of Southeast Asian states will "speed up" talks on a code of conduct in the South China Sea, Beijing's state-run China Daily reported March 8. Wang told reporters days later the talks were "gathering pace under a clear road map. That goal should mean a 2020 signing date -- ahead of an earlier Chinese forecast of 2021 -- for the agreement aimed at guiding ships away from mishaps in the vast, crowded South China Sea, some analysts believe. China resents the U.S. Navy for passing ships through the sea, where Beijing has a military and technological advantage over the four Southeast Asian countries that also claim parts of it. An early signing of the code would show Washington that Beijing can work with its neighbors without U.S. influence, scholars say. If theres no United States, the Chinese wont say that the code of conduct is a must-have document, said Yun Sun, East Asia Program senior associate with the Stimson Center think tank in Washington, D.C. With a code of conduct, the Chinese could tell the Americans that we already have a deal, and theres no reason for you to get involved and whatever we do is between me, China, and them, Southeast Asian countries, she said. Brunei, China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam claim all or parts of the 3.5 million-square-kilometer sea thats prized for fisheries, shipping lanes and fossil fuel reserves. China has alarmed the others since 2010 by building artificial islands for military installations. Washington, which counts some of the other states as allies, stepped up naval patrols of the sea in 2017 to monitor Chinese activity there. Laggard increases speed China and the 10-country Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have talked off and on about a code of conduct for the sea since ASEAN endorsed the idea in 1996. Some analysts believe China had once stalled the process but came around in 2016 after losing a world court arbitration over the legal basis for its claim to about 90 percent of the sea. As tough Sino-ASEAN discussions began after a 2017 commitment to reach a deal, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang anticipated last year the code would take three years to finish. Next year is likely for a deal on the code of conduct because China hopes to work with Vietnam, the 2020 chair of ASEAN, said Termsak Chalermpalanupap, fellow with the ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. China and ASEAN are focusing this year on trade liberalization, he said. I think the Chinese side seems to indicate they now want to make it quicker," he said. "I think it may be next year. Next year will be the turn of Vietnam chairing ASEAN. I think China may have strategic reasons to work with Vietnam. Vietnam is the most outspoken Southeast Asian country with claims to the sea. Although accidents are rare in the sea today, Vietnamese and Chinese vessels rammed one another over a Chinese oil rig in 2014. They also engaged in deadly clashes in 1974 and 1988. The code of conduct is due to set out guidelines for stopping such incidents in the sea that supports one-third of the worlds marine shipping traffic and a fishing industry that employs an estimated 3.7 million people. Foiling US naval movements Under President Donald Trump, the U.S. Navy has passed ships through the South China Sea at least 10 times. China resents those movements, because the militarily stronger U.S. government -- an old Cold War foe -- makes no claim to the sea. Progress toward the code of conduct will improve spirits at future Sino-ASEAN joint military exercises, said Alexander Huang, strategic studies professor at Tamkang University in Taiwan. Next month, the Pentagon will unveil a new Indo Pacific military strategy before defense chiefs around the Asia Pacific at the Shangri-La Dialogue later this month, according to the USNI News website. The strategy is seen as a way to monitor Chinese maritime expansion. Probably China wanted to have some input before the U.S. pronouncement, Huang said. U.S. officials have historic alliances with Taiwan the Philippines plus a budding relationship with its old war foe Vietnam. Those countries, all militarily weaker than China, look to Washington to cap Chinese influence. Tough talks Acceleration of talks toward a code of conduct wont be easy, analysts have warned. They expect that sovereignty-conscious Beijing will oppose defining the scope of the sea, resist any binding agreement and block provisions for enforcement that would limit Chinese maritime activities. ASEAN is expected to ask for those details during talks. ASEAN finds some of the Chinese demands are impossible, Sun said. China has advocated before a speedier deal to show goodwill in Southeast Asia, yet without results, cautioned Oh Ei Sun, senior fellow with the Singapore Institute of International Affairs. From time to time they will put out statements like that, he said. The negotiations simply did not conclude. South Sudan's warring parties will need more than a six-month extension approved last week before they can form a transitional government, says the country's president, Salva Kiir. In his first public remarks since the parties agreed to the extension last week, the president also accused rebel leader Riek Machar's SPLM-IO (Sudan People's Liberation Movement-in-Opposition) of recruiting new fighters. Speaking in Juba Wednesday, President Kiir said he doubts the parties will implement all of the peace deal's security arrangements within the next half-year. "If we cannot do them in the last eight months, what will make it to succeed this time around in six months?" Kiir said. Sudan's government and its opponents were supposed to form a transitional unity government by May 12, but arrangements to assemble, train and unify the various armed forces into a national army are not even close to being completed. Kiir wants year-long extension Kiir said even with the extension, logistical challenges will prevent the parties from finishing security arrangements by November. "I told my team that instead of six months let us call for one year because from May up to November, there will be rain still and you cannot move with a car to any location, but if it is one year the remaining six months will get us in the new year and these things can be done during that period and then we can form the government by April or May," he said. Following last week's meeting, sponsored by the regional bloc IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development) in Ethiopia, the Kiir administration pledged $100 million to help fund security arrangements and other activities. Kiir said he agreed to the extension because he does not want a return to civil war. "We will delay forming the government as per the request of Doctor Riek Machar and we will wait because we are not going back to war. We don't want war," said Kiir on Wednesday. At the same event, Kiir accused Machar of continuing to recruit soldiers in violation of the peace agreement. "He is now recruiting and this recruitment is prohibited in the (peace) agreement. If it is a matter of recruiting, it does not cost me much to also recruit. He thinks that he wants to recruit so that when he comes to Juba he comes with a lot of forces to push all of us out," said Kiir. Accusation denied SPLM-IO deputy chairman Henry Odwar denied Kiir's accusation. "The SPLM-IO is not recruiting and we are observing the agreement in its strict form, in letter and spirit. We have what we call assembly areas, this is in accordance with the agreements," Odwar told South Sudan in Focus Wednesday. President Kiir said delaying formation of the government will extend his stay in power because there will be no election to allow for a peaceful transition of power. Lars Andersen, the Norwegian Ambassador to South Sudan recently said any delay in forming the new government should not affect the timing of democratic elections, scheduled for March 2022. At the end of the two day IGAD meeting in Juba on Wednesday, IGAD's special envoy to South Sudan urged the parties to implement the remaining tasks without delay. Extra time welcomed Ismail Wais said the extension of the pre-transitional period will allow the parties to complete security arrangements and give the Independent Boundaries Commission extra time to work out the number of states and their boundaries. He also urged IGAD's Council of Ministers to look into concerns raised by the SPLM-IO about the constitutional amendment process. Augustino Njoroge, the interim head of Joint Monitoring Evaluation Commission (JMEC), which monitors implementation of the peace deal, said out of 59 tasks that were supposed to be implemented during the pre- transitional period, less than half were completed. "Our focus should now fall squarely on the leadership of the parties to demonstrate clear political will and commitment to make sure that the security-related institutions and mechanisms of the agreement deliver. As resolved by the parties, the most critical determination for the formation of (transitional government) is the formation of forces," Njoroge told VOA's South Sudan in Focus. Sri Lanka's president says "99%'' of the remaining suspects in the Easter attacks on churches and hotels have been arrested and their explosive materials seized, and it is safe for tourists to return to the Indian Ocean island nation. "The country is in a safe position right now,'' President Maithripala Sirisena said in an interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday. "Our intelligence divisions have identified how many terrorists are there and 99% of them have been arrested. One or two may have been left and they too will be arrested,'' he said. Sirisena spoke hours after an interim report was submitted by a committee his office formed to examine why Sri Lankan security forces did not heed Indian intelligence information ahead of the attacks that killed more than 250 people. Sirisena declined to discuss the report but said that "heads of security divisions have failed to take appropriate measures and failed to inform me, too.'' The president also said "all'' of the suspects' explosives, weapons, safe houses and training centers had been found in the 16 days since the blasts rocked the island off India's southern tip. Acting police chief C.D. Wickramaratne said in a statement Monday that authorities had also seized improvised explosive devices and hundreds of swords, $140,000 in cash in bank accounts and $40 million in assets including land, houses, vehicles and jewelry connected to the suspects. Those things weren't discovered earlier because of "weaknesses'' in Sri Lanka's intelligence divisions, Sirisena said. Officials say the coordinated suicide bombings on Easter morning were carried out by Sri Lankan militants targeting churches full of people and luxury hotels in the capital, Colombo. Since Sri Lanka's civil war ended a decade ago, the country has built a vast tourism sector that draws visitors to its beaches, wildlife and ancient temples. The dead included dozens of foreigners. Sirisena was out of the country on a private trip to Singapore on the day of the attacks. Upon his return, he demanded the resignation of his defense secretary and chief of police. Sirisena said Tuesday that the violence wasn't a problem specific to Sri Lanka, instead ascribing it to "global terrorism.'' He said countries fighting international terrorism had voluntarily sent intelligence experts to the island who are collaborating with local intelligence units. Police say two previously little-known radical Islamist groups -- National Towheed Jamaat and Jammiyathul Millathu Ibrahim -- conspired in the attacks. Officials say Zahran Hashim, a vitriolic preacher from the country's east, may have led the attackers and was one of the nine suicide bombers to die. Two days after the bombings, the Islamic State group claimed responsibility and later released a video of Hashim and other men pledging their loyalty to IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Later, al-Baghdad praised the attackers in a video that was his first public appearance in nearly five years. Sirisena's enmity with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and his Cabinet and a lack of communication between the two leaders is also considered a key factor in the breakdown of intelligence sharing ahead of the attacks. Sirisena "is a big failure, but others also should have made up for it. The others have also looked at their interest above the country,'' said Chandra Jayaratna, a social activist and the former head of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. Sirisena, who was health minister under former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, quit that government and teamed up with Wickremesinghe to defeat Rajapaksa in the 2015 presidential election. However, the two leaders fell out and their rivalry became public last October when Sirisena suddenly sacked Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapaksa as prime minister. The crisis brought the country to a standstill for seven weeks and was only resolved after a court ordered Sirisena to reinstate Wickremesinghe. A presidential election is due by the end of the year and both Sirisena and Wickremesinghe are widely expected to run. Sirisena has previously said the intelligence services were weakened by Wickremesinghe and his ministers who insisted that intelligence and security personnel accused of human rights violations during the civil war be investigated in line with a pledge to the United Nations' human rights council. During and immediately after the 26-year conflict between rebels from the ethnic minority Tamil community and the Sinhalese-majority government, intelligence officials were accused of involvement in the abduction, assault and disappearance of critics, journalists and other civilians. Rajapaksa was the country's leader at the time. Two high school students shot and killed a classmate and injured eight others at a charter school in a Colorado community that marked the 20th anniversary of one of the nation's worst school shootings just weeks ago. Douglas County sheriff's officials said Devon Erickson, 18, and a younger student walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch Tuesday afternoon and opened fire on students in two classrooms, prompting students to run shouting through the halls or to hide out of sight as gunfire echoed through school. Student Nui Giasolli on Wednesday told NBC's "Today" show she was in her British Literature class when Erickson came in late. "He walked to the other side of the classroom where we also had another door and he opened the door. He walked back as if he was going to go back to his seat, then he walked back to the door and he closed it. The next thing I know he's pulling a gun and he's telling nobody to move," she said. She said another student lunged at the shooter, giving the other students time to dive under the desks and flee to safety. "At the moment no one really knew what was going on so I didn't know they were bullets," said seventh-grader Sophia Marks. "I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs." Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriff's department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Both were students at the school and they were not previously known to authorities, Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. Josh Dutton, 18, told The Associated Press that he was close friends with Devon Erickson in middle school but hadn't seen him for four years as he went to a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Erickson wore all black, a hat and sunglasses, was significantly skinnier and didn't seem interested in talking. "He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles," Dutton said. A message left at a phone number listed for Erickson's home was not immediately returned. The shooting took place exactly a week after a gunman killed two students and wounded four at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. It also comes nearly three weeks after neighboring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about 7 miles (11 kilometers) in adjacent communities south of Denver. "Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence," White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. President Donald Trump had been briefed on the shooting and was in touch with state and local officials, Deere said. "The heart of all Colorado is with the victims and their families," Gov. Jared Polis said in a statement. STEM is a public charter school with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math. It has more than 1,850 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. As the gunfire rang out, students ran through the halls shouting "School shooter!" Some wondered at first if it was a joke or a drill. Chris Elledge, 15, said his teacher told the class to hide behind weight equipment in the room, where they stayed until police arrived. "They busted in the room, and they were asking if there was any suspects in the room, if we were OK, and they escorted us out to go out to the front of the building," Elledge said. Frantic parents used their cellphones to find their children as news of the shooting spread. Sophia Marks' mother, Sara Marks, said she has two other children who also go to the school. "When you have no idea what's going on and the children are texting you that they're hiding under a desk and bullets are hitting their window, or things are hitting their window, it's a horrible feeling," she said. Three hospitals reported treating eight people in connection with the attack, including two who were listed in serious condition. At least four others were released by Tuesday night. Fernando Montoya told television station KMGH that his 17-year-old son was shot three times but was expected to make a full recovery. "Thank God he is fine," Montoya said. "Even though he got shot, he's OK. He's going to walk out on his feet, so I'm glad. We're so lucky." Sudan's army rulers Tuesday said Islamic law should remain as the guiding principle in a new civilian structure, after protest leaders handed in proposed changes they want enforced but kept silent on Sharia. The 10-member military council was handed the proposals last week for the new civilian structures protest leaders want. The military council told reporters that the generals overall agreed to the proposals but had "many reservations." These included the silence on Islamic Sharia law remaining the bedrock of all laws. "The declaration failed to mention the sources of legislation, and the Islamic Sharia law and tradition should be the source of legislation," Lieutenant General Shamseddine Kabbashi, spokesman for the military council, told reporters. Sudan, under ousted leader Omar al-Bashir, saw Islamic law applied inconsistently, even though the country's constitution says that Sharia is the guiding principle. This led to thousands of women being flogged for "indecent behavior," according to women's rights activists. 'Sovereign' authority Kabbashi said the military council was also of the opinion that declarations of emergencies be in the hands of a "sovereign" authority and not the cabinet as proposed by protest leaders. He said the composition of a "sovereign" body has yet to be discussed with the protest leaders. The military council and protest leaders have differed on the composition of an overall ruling council, with protest leaders demanding it be led by majority civilians and the generals insisting it be a military-led body. Thousands of protesters, meanwhile, remain encamped outside the army complex, demanding that the army rulers step down and hand over power to a civilian administration. The generals took power after the army ousted Bashir on April 11 following months of protests against his iron-fisted rule. But since then, the military council has resisted calls for handing over power to civilians, the main demand of protesters. The global mining industry is currently experiencing an influx of pain points. A perpetually increasing energy demand, fluctuating precious metals markets, pressing security issues, and social and environmental responsibilities only tap the surface. As the most mineral-rich continent on earth, Africa is looked to as a resource in solving these growing issues. The Mining Summit Africa will bring together leading mining industry executives from all over the continent to confront and overcome current challenges. This event will explore overarching exploration and production concerns, as well as those specific to particular product targets, including coal, diamonds, gold, iron, limestone, oil shale, platinum, potash, rock salt and uranium. Attending delegates will discuss the future of the African mining industry, sharing best practices for growth through sustainable operations, efficient and safe E&P and a reduced negative impact on the environment. The summit will allow attending delegates to network with peers, explore critical technology solutions and learn from each others experiences through engaging educational sessions conducted in a comfortable, yet focused business environment. The event agenda offers opportunities for critical exchanges through engaging Keynote Presentations, Think Tanks, Analyst Q&As and much more. A few of this years agenda topics: The youth volunteers unrolled long green carpets on Monday before distributing loaves of bread and bowls of stew to the seated faithful. Nearby, dozens of others cheered and waved Sudanese flags. It is Ramadan in Sudan, and at a sit-in in Khartoum, where thousands of people have camped out since April demanding an end to military rule, no one seems ready to go home -- and few seem to have lost their energy for protest. Instead, the protesters have organized an iftar to break their fast, with food for more than 2,000 people, according to volunteers. Despite the heat during the day, student protester Khalid Sharif Ibrahim Abdallah says they will keep demonstrating until they see real change in government. Muslim faithful do not eat or drink from sunrise to sunset. "There's thirst. There's hunger. There's tiredness," he told VOA. "But you are aiming for a goal, and you must get to it. All these things, if they don't make you weaker, they will only make you stronger." He said rather than slowing them down, Ramadan will give them motivation to keep going to reach their goals, which he described as "a civilian government, a democratic government, and a country for citizens with equal rights." The previous government, led by former President Omar al-Bashir and dominated by the military, ruled for 30 years and is accused of corruption, atrocities and curbing basic freedoms. While youth have led the revolution, people of all ages joined the Ramadan celebration in a show of solidarity. Abdalshafer Ahmed Ibrahim, in his 70s, holding a Quran and wearing a white jalibiya, sat on a carpet waiting for sundown. "We want the freedom to change the situation," he told VOA. "The pressure has become too much. We want freedom. That's all." When at last the call to prayer echoed across the sit-in at dusk, the protesters quietly took their first sips of water and bites of food since dawn. Volunteers also brought food and drink to share with the protesters. They welcomed anyone to eat from their plastic tubs of rice, and poured cold hibiscus juice into waiting cups. One volunteer, named Khalda Kamil Abuker, and her friends are part of a group that works to support cancer patients. "Every Ramadan, we feed the cancer patients in the hospital," she said. "This year we thought we would start here as we wanted to share with our brothers and sisters in the sit-in." With darkness enveloping the sit-in site, Abuker explained that cancer treatment in Sudan is subpar, and said the previous government didn't do enough to support health care. "Cancer patients in Sudan suffer quite a lot, especially if they need surgery," she said. She said she hopes the new government will be more responsive. "We hope the military council will fulfill the demands of the people and of the nation for the sake of stability and peace of mind," she said. "The civilian government must be put together as soon as possible." She added: "We hope this sit-in can bring an honorable result, not just for Sudan but for the whole world. If the demands of the youth are met, Sudan is going to have civility, safety, and the country will be moving forward." When the last bits of food were eaten, the youth rolled up the green carpets. Then, the music started again, and the youth began waving their flags once more. The Sudanese at the sit-in continued celebrating Ramadan, and the revolution. The U.S. government can continue to return asylum-seekers to Mexico while their cases are pending, a U.S. appeals court ruled Tuesday. The Trump administration policy, known formally as the Migration Protection Protocols (MPP), and informally as "Remain in Mexico," faces ongoing legal challenges. A lower court ruled that the policy violated U.S. immigration law and stopped the government from carrying out the policy. Government lawyers challenged the decision, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco determined in April that the policy could continue to be carried out while the court case is ongoing. Tuesday's ruling by the three-judge appellate court panel extended that decision. The ruling rankled immigrant advocates who feel the policy may be dangerous. "The decision to allow this cruel and irresponsible policy to continue will put many more people seeking protection in harm's way," said Charanya Krishnaswami, advocacy director for the Americas at Amnesty International USA. "This month," she added, "we saw firsthand in San Diego and El Paso how this policy puts asylum-seekers at grave risk of discrimination, exploitation, sexual violence, kidnapping and death, and prevents them from accessing attorneys in proceedings that are a matter of life and death." MPP began in January. Since then, more than 3,000 Central Americans have been sent back to Mexico to await their immigration court hearings, according to Mexican officials. Asylum claims are based on whether an applicant has a "well-founded fear of persecution" in their home country for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion. It is part of U.S. and international law. The decision to uphold MPP comes amid a dramatic shake-up in the administration's immigration leadership and numerous efforts by Trump's staff to alter the country's asylum program and border security strategy. Trump tweeted a response to Tuesday's appellate court ruling. The U.S. House Judiciary Committee is proceeding Wednesday with its consideration of whether to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress over the Justice Department's refusal to provide an unredacted copy of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on his investigation of Russian election interference. Committee leaders and Justice Department officials met Tuesday to try to resolve the dispute, but the two sides each issued statements late in the day indicating they remained far apart. In short, the Justice Department threatened to request that President Donald Trump invoke executive privilege over the materials the committee asked for in its subpoena, if it goes ahead with the contempt vote Wednesday. Nadler responded by saying the Justice Department's legal arguments lack credibility or legal basis, and further accused it of conducting "dangerous" obstruction. The Justice Department's positions came in the form of a letter to Nadler from Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd who accused Nadler's committee of making "unreasonable demands" and provoking "an unnecessary conflict between our respective branches of government." Boyd said the Justice Department had acted within the law and regulations by offering a copy of the Mueller report "with as few redactions as possible," but said committee leaders escalated the dispute by demanding all committee members be allowed to review that version, something he said would "risk violating court orders" in some ongoing cases. Boyd asked Nadler to put the Mueller report subpoena on hold for now and to delay Wednesday's contempt vote. Nadler in his statement said the White House had long ago waived its executive privilege over the materials requested in the subpoena, which include not only the full Mueller report but also the underlying documents from the investigation of Russia's interference with the 2016 election, whether members of Trump's campaign colluded with Russia, and whether the president obstructed justice. "The Department's decision reflects President Trump's blanket defiance of Congress's constitutionally mandated duties," Nadler said. "I expect that Congress will have no choice but to confront the behavior of this lawless administration. The Committee will also take a hard look at the officials who are enabling this cover up." If the Democrat-controlled Judiciary Committee approves the contempt citation for the attorney general, it would be taken up by the full House of Representatives. In theory, someone held in contempt could eventually be tried and, if convicted, face up to a year in prison. The Justice Department rarely pursues such referrals from Congress. WATCH: Mueller report debate continues Nadler's committee is also considering whether to hold Donald McGahn, the former White House counsel, in contempt of Congress if he refuses to testify before the committee later this month about the Mueller probe. McGahn on Tuesday refused to comply with a subpoena for documents related to the investigation. The White House had demanded he ignore the subpoena, and his lawyer said the documents were property of the White House and as such McGahn had no right to them. Nadler rejected that argument, saying the White House had also not invoked executive privilege over those materials. House Democrats are pushing for Mueller to testify about his handling of the investigation. Barr has said he had no objection to letting Mueller testify before Congress about his investigation. But Trump on Sunday changed his mind, saying, "Bob Mueller should not testify. No redos for the Dems!" No agreement has been reached for Mueller's testimony. Barr last month released a redacted copy of the Mueller report, with the prosecutor concluding neither Trump nor his campaign colluded with Russia, but reached no conclusion whether Trump, as president, obstructed justice during the 22-month investigation. Barr decided the findings did not warrant obstruction charges against the president. In an online statement under the name DOJ Alumni, more than 700 former federal prosecutors, so far, who worked in Republican and Democratic administrations said evidence Mueller uncovered would have resulted in obstruction charges against Trump, were it not for the long-standing Justice Department policy that a sitting president cannot be charged with a criminal offense. U.S. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell says it is time for lawmakers to move on from the Russia investigation. "Case closed," McConnell said on the Senate floor. McConnell derided what he said was the "outrage industrial complex" of Democrats and television news show pundits over special counsel Robert Mueller's conclusion that Trump did not collude with Russians to help him win. "The investigation went on for two years," he said. "It's finally over." Top Democratic leaders immediately disputed McConnell. Senate Democratic leader Charles Schumer called McConnell's remarks "an astounding bit of whitewashing," while House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said, "That's just not a fact. The case is not closed." Former Senator and World War II hero Bob Dole was awarded the 2019 World War II Foundation Leadership Award Tuesday. I probably dont deserve it, but Ill take it anyway, said Dole at the ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of D-Deay at the French Embassy in Washington. The foundation presents the award every year to a person of the World War II generation who still endeavors to preserve the lessons and sacrifice of that time. Some of us are still kicking around. Im only 95, said the former lawmaker from Kansas. Dole served as a combat infantry officer in the famed 10th Mountain Division during the war. He was badly wounded while leading an attack in northern Italy in 1944. He received two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star for his service. After the war, Dole represented Kansas in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1961-1969, then as senator from 1969-1996. He was the Republican leader of the Senate from 1985-1996. He also was the Republican nominee for president in 1996, before losing to incumbent President Bill Clinton. Samiullah Jalalzai of VOA's Afghan service contributed to this report. Officials in Afghanistan say a Taliban car bomb-and-gun attack against a U.S.-funded international relief organization Wednesday killed at least five people, including a police guard, and wounded 24 others. Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said insurgents targeted the nonprofit group Counterpart International, which is a partner of the U.S. Agency for International Development, in the upscale Shahri Naw area of the capital. The Afghan forces killed all five assailants in a gunfight that lasted nearly six hours. Rahimi would not say whether staff members of the aid group were among the casualties. Ann Hudock, president and chief executive of Counterpart International, told VOA's Afghan service Wednesday, "There is still a lot of information that we don't know, including whether we were specifically targeted. But we do know there was a bomb blast and that our building was attacked by militants." She said her staff was all accounted for and safe. "What I can say is that the senseless violence that happened today has no place in a civilized world. It has nothing to do with Islam. For this to happen in Ramadan makes it particularly egregious," she said. Rahimi said police and military commandos quickly surrounded the building and fought the assailants, rescuing close to 200 people during the siege. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. The insurgent raid began just before noon with a car bomb explosion at the entrance gate before several gunmen stormed the office building, said Rahimi. The U.S.-funded aid organization has been operating in Afghanistan since 2005 on civic engagement projects, according to its website. "In all our programs, we bring marginalized people into civic life, supporting their ability to influence decisions that affect their lives," Counterpart said in its mission statement on its website. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid accused the aid group of conducting "harmful" activities inside Afghanistan. "Counterpart implemented a dangerous program termed 'Angel' aimed at promoting open intermixing between men and women," Mujahid alleged in a statement sent to reporters. He accused the aid group of employing "40-50 foreign advisers" working in various aspects of brutality, oppression, terror, anti-Islamic ideology and promotion of Western culture. U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan John Bass strongly condemned the Taliban attack. "The targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists and supports the Afghan people. For this, it is the target of senseless violence. Thanks to Afghan Security Forces for rapid response," Bass said. The U.N. Assistance Mission in Afghanistan also denounced as deplorable the "deliberate targeting of the civilian aid organization" by the insurgents. WATCH: Taliban Attack on NGO in Afghanistan Kills Five The Taliban continue to carry out deadly attacks, despite cease-fire appeals by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and the United States, during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, which began Monday. The insurgent group has justified its violent campaign, saying under Islamic traditions, "the blessed month of Ramadan is prime opportunity for jihad [holy war]." The latest violence came as a sixth round of peace talks between U.S. and Taliban negotiators is under way in Doha, Qatar, to try to end the conflict in Afghanistan. The latest round of discussions began a week ago, but neither side has reported significant progress. The Pentagon said Wednesday that it has suspended a joint effort with North Korea to recover the remains of US servicemen after Pyongyang stopped communicating in the wake of the failed Hanoi summit. The effort saw the remains of more than 50 US servicemen killed in the 1950s Korean war handed over by North Korea last year in a sign of improved relations between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un. But communications on the program halted after the two leaders failed to make progress in talks on North Korea's nuclear program in their February summit in Hanoi, according to Chuck Prichard, a spokesman for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA). North Korean officials "have not communicated with DPAA since the Hanoi Summit," Prichard said in a statement. "As a result, our efforts to communicate with the Korean People's Army regarding the possible resumption of joint recovery operations for 2019 has been suspended." "We have reached the point where we can no longer effectively plan, coordinate, and conduct field operations" with North Korea, he said. In July 2018 Pyongyang handed over the remains of more than 50 American servicemen who were lost in North Korea territory during the Korean War of 1950-1953. The return of the remains marked the partial fulfillment of an agreement reached between Trump and Kim at their historic initial summit in Singapore in June 2018. The White House at the time called it "a significant first step" in the process of searching for an estimated 7,700 Americans considered still missing from the war, of which 5,300 were believed lost in North Korea. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) launched a program for federal-local collaboration that would sidestep sanctuary restrictions by delegating arrest powers to local officers. Under the Warrant Service Officer (WSO) program, announced Monday in Pinellas County on Florida's Gulf Coast, local law enforcement officers would be allowed to conduct immigration arrests. The new rule would allow local authorities to detain criminal suspects instead of releasing them, giving ICE an extra 48 hours to take them into federal custody. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), a civil rights group, said the initiative is "just the latest scheme by ICE to enlist local police in its abusive deportation agenda." Lorella Praeli, ACLU deputy political director, said, "The agency explicitly aims to subvert the will of local communities that have passed ordinances to prevent exactly this kind of cooperation between police and ICE." According to an ICE statement, "Only one jurisdiction in Florida has agreed to join the program, but others have shown interest and others are expected [to sign up] soon." ICE said the new program is a measure to fight "sanctuary cities" across the country. The term sanctuary city is generally applied to cities where local authorities refuse to heed ICEs detention requests and in some cases refuse to communicate detainee information to ICE entirely. According to a Memorandum of Agreement signed by the agency and Pinellas County on Monday, sheriff's office personnel "will be nominated, trained and approved by ICE to perform certain limited functions of an immigration officer" within the local jail or correctional facilities. Those selected to participate are expected to receive federal credentials that reflect their authority once training is completed. Local jurisdictions are expected to fund the cost of travel and officer pay associated with training, the agency said. Praeli said it would "potentially [cost] the state millions in operational expenses and legal fees." ICE spokesman Matthew Bourke said in an email that WSO officers would "only arrest unlawfully present aliens that are processed into their jail or correctional facility once they are formally released. Arrests will only occur inside the confines of the jail." "Under the WSO program, administrative warrants are served and executed on behalf of ICE. The aliens are not formally held for any additional time in jail stemming from their sentence or criminal arrest. They can be held up to 48 hours stemming from their immigration arrests," Bourke said. Amien Kacou, immigration staff attorney at the ACLU of Florida, told VOA this initiative has serious legal flaws. "For one thing, it is unclear how the power of arrest can be effectively delegated if it does not include the power to ensure probable cause of arrest," he said. ICE's press release states that WSO officers "will not question individuals about their citizenship, alienage or removability, nor will they process aliens who are unlawfully present in the United States." "This means ICE wants local law enforcement to arrest people when they're told no questions asked. But this is not how the power of arrest works under Fourth Amendment jurisprudence," Kacou added. ICE is still expected to issue immigration detainers with partner jurisdictions, but if immigration officers do not take the person into custody within 48 hours, the individual must be released, according to the agency. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He arrives in Washington this week for trade talks as the United States prepares to raise tariffs on Chinese goods in the middle of his visit. The U.S. will boost tariffs from 10 percent to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports on Friday, according to a notice published Wednesday in the Federal Register from the U.S. Trade Representatives office. The increase takes effect on the second day of Lius visit, but it will not dampen hopes for an agreement, at least in the mind of U.S. President Donald Trump. China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal, Trump said Wednesday in a post on Twitter. Trump said he would be happy to maintain tariffs on Chinese imports, and added that Beijing would be mistaken if it hopes to negotiate trade later with a Democratic presidential administration. "They broke the deal. So they're flying in. The vice premier tomorrow is flying in, but they broke the deal. They can't do that. So they'll be paying," Trump told supporters at a rally in Florida. The Chinese Commerce Ministry reacted to the announced tariff increase, vowing to take "necessary" countermeasures if the tax is implemented. The ministry said escalating trade tensions are not beneficial to either country or to the world. Trump set the new Friday deadline to raise tariffs after the U.S. accused China of reneging earlier this week on commitments made during months of talks to end their trade war. The administration hopes the new tariffs will force changes in China's trade, subsidy and intellectual property practices. The two sides have been unable to reach a deal due, in part, to differences over the enforcement of an agreement and a timeline for removing the tariffs. If a rising tide lifts all boats, then Vietnam may find that there is a related saying in economics: when the tide goes out, you will see who was swimming naked. The Southeast Asian country has fared fairly well amid the trade frictions around the world, with its foreign investment and gross domestic product continuing to grow. But even Vietnam is not immune if a recession hits the global economy, as some are expecting, which is why they are bracing for a hard landing. News this week that U.S. President Donald Trump plans to increase tariffs on Chinese goods has just added to the frictions, sending Asian stock markets plummeting. An economic downturn in other words, the tide going out could expose vulnerabilities for Vietnam, the equivalent of those swimming naked. Most analysts are forecasting slower GDP growth for Vietnam in the year ahead. Economic slowdown ahead It is important to recognize that the region continues to face heightened pressures that began in 2018 and that could still have an adverse impact, said Andrew Mason, who is acting as the chief economist for the World Bank in the East Asia and Pacific region. Continued uncertainty stems from several factors, including further deceleration in advanced economies, the possibility of a faster-than-expected slowdown in China, and unresolved trade tensions. His office projects the Vietnamese economy will expand 6.6 percent in 2019, while researchers at Capital Economics peg growth at an even lower rate of 6 percent year-on-year. That compares with the annualized rate of 7.1 percent in 2018. The pending slowdown, if it comes, would be due to a variety of reasons, not least among them global demand. If more and more countries see their economies decelerate because of the trade wars or otherwise they will buy fewer goods from Vietnam. As an export-led economy based on factory products, Vietnam is extremely sensitive to the knock-on effects of foreign trade and consumption. Another key risk factor for the economy is the portfolio of state-owned enterprises. The government has not divested its shares in the enterprises as quickly as planned. At the same time it faces a growing burden from tax and spending needs. Public debt and a budget deficit Fiscal policy is also likely to become less supportive. Vietnam has one of the highest levels of public debt and the largest budget deficit in the region, Capital Economics, an economic research company, said in a note to investors. Tighter policy, in the form of slower spending growth and higher taxes, is needed to bring debt levels down to more sustainable levels. Both the company and the World Bank agree that, besides public debt, private debt poses a notable challenge in the country as well, especially at banks. Lenders have not completely offloaded their non-performing loan problem, which refers to loans that are unlikely to be repaid. That contributes to tightening credit, which can be a blessing and a curse. On the plus side, weaker credit demand is needed to reduce risks in the financial sector and put the economy on a more sustainable footing, Capital Economics wrote. But in the near term a slowdown in credit growth will drag on consumption and investment growth. Large trade deals All of this comes during a transition period for Vietnam, which is preparing for new trade deals like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and the European Union-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement. Academic researchers Tran Thi Bich Nhan and Do Thi Minh Huong say the transition period will create plenty of opportunities, but not everyone will come out ahead. In terms of society, the increased competition from participating in FTAs can push some companies in developing countries, primarily state-owned enterprises and companies with outdated production technology, into difficulties, bringing along the possibility of unemployment for a portion of the workforce, Nhan and Huong wrote in the finance ministry's official newspaper. If Vietnam adds to that a slowdown in the global economy, workers and other vulnerable groups are most likely to be hardest hit. While the overall impact of a recession is generally negative, some say there is a silver lining. When the tide goes out, it can help distinguish between the efficient and inefficient companies, distinguish between an economys strengths and the weaknesses to be addressed. But no one expects it to be a pleasant process. Googles self-driving car spinoff, Waymo, is teaming up with Lyft in Arizona to attempt to lure passengers away from ride-hailing market leader Uber. The alliance announced Tuesday will allow anyone with the Lyft app in the Phoenix area to summon one of the 10 self-driving Waymo cars that will join the ride-hailing service by end of September. Waymos robotic vehicles will still have a human behind the wheel to take control in case something goes awry with the technology. But their use in Lyfts service could make more people feel comfortable about riding in self-driving cars. Self-driving to a profit Both Lyft and Uber consider self-driving cars to be one of the keys to turning a profit, something neither company has done so far. Meanwhile, Waymo has been slowly expanding its own ride-hailing service in the Phoenix area that so far has been confined to passengers who previously participated in free tests of its self-driving technology. Were committed to continuously improving our customer experience, and our partnership with Lyft will also give our teams the opportunity to collect valuable feedback, Waymo CEO John Krafcik wrote in a blog post. Lyft President John Zimmer described the Waymo partnership as phenomenal in a Tuesday conference call. Uber didnt respond to a request for comment. The new threat to Uber is emerging as the San Francisco company pursues an initial public offering of stock that could raise $9 billion when the deal is completed later this week. Lyft raked in more than $2 billion in its own IPO in March, only to see its stock fall nearly 20% below its offering price amid concerns about its ability to make money, a challenge magnified by another loss of $1.1 billion during the first three months of the year. Waymo invests in both Waymos corporate parent, Alphabet Inc., is in line to be among the biggest winners in Ubers IPO just as it was in the Lyft IPO. Alphabet owns a 5% stake in Uber that will be worth as much as $3.6 billion if Uber realizes its goal of selling its stock for as much as $50 per share. It also holds a 5% stake in Lyft that is currently worth $761 million. Despite their financial ties, Waymo and Uber have had an acrimonious relationship since becoming entangled in a thorny case of alleged high-tech theft. Waymo accused Uber of orchestrating a scheme to steal some of its autonomous driving technology. That came after Ubers former CEO Travis Kalanick began to suspect Waymo was planning to use its self-driving cars in a rival ride-hailing service. The two sides settled that dispute last year in a deal that required Uber to give Alphabet another bundle of stock that was worth $245 million at the time the truce was reached. The agreement also requires Uber to submit to reviews by a software expert to ensure it isnt misusing any of Waymos technology in its effort to build its own self-driving cars, a process that recently uncovered some potentially problematic issues, according to discloses made as part of Ubers IPO. Uber warned the problems could require it to pay a licensing fee to Waymo or delay its efforts to introduce self-driving cars in its service. Pamela Anderson and WikiLeaks editor-in-chief visits Julian Assange in high security prison By RT May 07, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - An emotional Pamela Anderson and WikiLeaks editor-in-chief Kristinn Hrafnsson opened up to reporters following the first social visit to Julian Assange since the whistleblower was imprisoned last month. Anderson and Hrafnsson were the first people allowed to visit Assange, aside from his lawyer, since the 47-year-old was sentenced to 50 weeks imprisonment for violating bail conditions. The pair looked solemn following the visit on Tuesday, and spoke to reporters outside of the prison about the shocking conditions the WikiLeaks founder is being held in. Friend and public advocate Anderson spoke of her love for the Australian and said he has not been able to speak to his children or access a computer or library since his incarceration. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Justice will depend on public support, said a sick Anderson as she faced the media. Hes a good man. I love him I cant imagine what hes been going through, she added. I have to say from my heart that this visit did not reflect well on society here, Hrafnsson added. This is not justice this is an abomination. Both condemned the decision to house Assange in a high security prison, in which he spends 23 hours per day in his cell, with 30 minutes allotted to go outside weather permitting and 30 minutes to do anything else. I can say Julian Assange is bent but not broken, said Hrafnsson. He is an extremely resilient person. Such reliance comes from the fact that he knows he is innocent. He knows he has done nothing wrong, he knows he is being persecuted for the simple fact of doing journalistic work. We need to save his life. That's how serious it is," Anderson said, with Hrafnsonn adding that "it is a question of life and death." Assange was arrested on April 11 and sentenced to 50 weeks imprisonment for violating bail conditions on May 1. He now faces the possibility of extradition to the US, where he is wanted for conspiracy to commit computer intrusion. An extradition hearing has been adjourned until May 30. This article was originally published by " RT " - Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here ==See Also== UN calls for Julian Assange's release from UK high-security jail: UN experts say British government is breaching WikiLeaks publishers human rights Kendrick Ray Castillo, the 18-year-old who sacrificed his life to save other students during a shooting in a suburban Denver high school, loved robotics, helping out the elderly in his community and making people laugh, his friend told Reuters. Cece Bedard, who knew Castillo since elementary school, said she broke down in tears when she heard her friend had died but was not surprised at his selfless act. "There is no doubt in my mind that he would have done anything he thought he could have to help anyone," Bedard said Wednesday. Two teenagers are accused of opening fire on fellow students on Tuesday at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, about 25 miles (40 km) south of Denver, killing Castillo and injuring eight other students. Witnesses said Castillo, who was due to graduate from the Colorado high school in three days, charged one of the shooters, who killed him. "Kendrick lunged at him," senior Nui Giasolli told NBC News, referring to the older of the two shooting suspects, Devon Erickson, 18, who was being held Wednesday on murder and attempted-murder charges. "He shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape," Giasolli said. Volunteering When they were in middle school, Castillo and Bedard both volunteered with their fathers at the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men's community service organization. Castillo loved tagging along with his father to volunteer with the Knights of Columbus, whether it involved carrying heavy crates of fruit for a peach drive or setting up senior lunches. He was especially good at connecting with the elderly people he served, Bedard said. "He was always there earlier than I was and was always there later than I was," she said. Robotics His friends remember Castillo as a goofy jokester, although his humor was never at anyone's expense, Bedard said. He had a strong sense of self and did not care what other people thought of him, a trait that made him stand out among his peers. Castillo was enthusiastic about robotics and was a member of a regional robotics team, another community that was mourning his loss Wednesday. "We're heartbroken by the death of Kendrick Castillo, a victim of the STEM School Highlands Ranch shooting in Littleton, CO. Kendrick was a member of @Frc4418, of which his father is Lead Mentor," tweeted FIRST, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing youth in STEM. Wednesday is V-E Day Victory in Europe the 74th anniversary of the formal end of World War II in Europe, when the allied powers defeated German leader Adolf Hitler and his once invincible Nazi war machine. While V-E Day is not considered a major day of reflection and thanksgiving in the United States, it is observed across Europe and much of the former Soviet Union. The true number of people killed in the war may never be known, but historians believe at least 35 million Europeans were killed during World War II, including 6 million Jews murdered by the Nazis. V-E-Day is also marked in Israel, home to thousands of Soviet Jewish immigrants and Holocaust survivors. Surrender May 7 Germany offered unconditional surrender on May 7. Gen. Alfred Jodl, representing what was left of the Nazi leadership, signed four separate surrender papers at U.S. General Dwight Eisenhowers headquarters in Reims, France one each for Britain, France, the Soviet Union and the United States. U.S. President Harry S. Truman and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared that May 8 be celebrated as V-E Day. At Soviet leader Josef Stalins insistence, however, another Nazi general signed additional surrender papers in Soviet-occupied Berlin, and Stalin declared May 9 as victory day. Celebrations break out Huge celebrations broke out across Europe. Stalin and Churchill were revered as heroes. Theyd crushed an enemy whose fanatical leader once swore he would rule the globe for a thousand years. Hundreds of thousands packed Times Square in New York City, where the jubilation was tempered when Truman reminded celebrants that there was still the war in the Pacific that needed to be won. In Germany, survivors wandered through cities blasted into an unrecognizable state from allied firebombs. Their homes were gone, and there was no food. Hitler escaped punishment by committing suicide in an underground bunker. Loss of Roosevelt President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who led the United States through the Depression and war, and had become a steadfast ally to Churchill and Stalin, did not live to see victory. Author and Marist College history professor David Woolner called Roosevelts final days a heroic and historic story. In his 2016 book The Last 100 Days: FDR at War and at Peace, Woolner chronicled the presidents life from Christmas 1944 until his death from a cerebral hemorrhage on April 12, 1945, a time when the German army was crumbling. This was a man who was confined to a wheelchair since the age of 39, couldnt get out bed in the morning, yet has to run the United States, he said. Roosevelt was severely ill, suffering from heart disease. He was in nonstop pain from the heavy steel braces around paralyzed legs, the result of polio. Woolner noted that Roosevelt knew running for an unprecedented third term in 1940, and then a fourth term in 1944, would certainly shorten his life. But Roosevelt was fighting enemies on two fronts, against Germany and Japan, and the country needed him to negotiate with a sometimes-disagreeable Churchill and a paranoid, distrustful Stalin. He frankly admits that he used the war as an opportunity to draw the Russians into the international community because he understood that there wasnt going to be peace in the world if the great powers didnt get along with one another, Woolner said. Differences among victors In his last State of the Union speech, Roosevelt said, The nearer we come to vanquishing our enemies, the more aware we become of the differences among victors. Almost as if he was warning the American people that this was not going to be an easy task to maintain good relations among the allies once the war was over, Woolner added. Roosevelt died at age 63, less than a month before the Nazis surrendered. He did not live to see the United Nations come into being or the formation of his other postwar vision: a Jewish homeland in the Middle East. That task was left to his successor, Truman. The Thokozani Khupe-led Movement for Democratic Change has welcomed a High Court ruling that MDC leader Nelson Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri were improperly appointed to the posts of vice president by the late Morgan Tsvangirai. In statement, Khupes party said, This victory not only vindicates Dr. Khupe and those in the MDC that have always stood for principle over political expediency but its a victory for all democratic forces and the rule of law in our country. This judgement is also a damning indictment to the many so-called legal scholars in the broader democratic movement who for the past years like the disgraced biblical Pontius Pilate looked the other way when the movement was veering off our founding values with such alarming impunity. The party said High Court judge Justice Edith Mushore, who made the ruling Wednesday, reminded us again what it is to be Zimbabwean by choosing courage and integrity over bigotry, misogyny, cowardice and mobocracy. It is therefore not surprising that those who seek power through violence and fraud are not able to successfully impeach her Ratio decidendi and are descending to their lowest weapon of choice which is personal insults and attacks on our judiciary. The party noted that it will soon contact MDC secretary general Douglas Mwonzora and other elected leaders for implementing the High Court ruling. Dr. Khupe has noted and welcomes the intention by some to appeal the judgment as this will give the superior courts an opportunity to confirm the universal rights of all Zimbabweans to fair and just administrative justice within any social organisation of their choice. Dr. Khupe demands all members of our movement to unite and be magnanimous at this time irrespective of their chosen side in this debacle. The party said Chamisa and his close associates should not be verbally abused or belittled in any way, shape or form. He remains an indispensable leader of our movement and to that end he deserves the uttermost respect from all disciplined cadres of our movement. But the MDC led by Chamisa said they fundamentally disagree with the High Court judgement. The choice of leaders of any political party, the world over is the sole preserve of the members of that party. It can never be a judicial process. Equally, the actions, activities and programmes of a political party, being a voluntary organisation whose existence is protected by the Constitution, is the sole preserve of the members that party. In the past few months, over 500,000 members of the MDC have been involved in a process of electing their leaders at lower levels, from branch to the province. More particularly, over 10,200 branches, 1,958 wards, 210 districts and 13 provinces have been elected. In just a few weeks time, the MDC will complete the process of democratically electing its leadership at a Congress convened in terms of its Constitution. The party said strangely, Justice Mushores judgement contradicts and totally ignores an earlier judgement of the High Court which ruled on the case of Murimoga versus the MDC. We are fully aware of the machinations and strategies being deployed by the Mnangagwa administration to destabilize and destroy the peoples project. We reiterate that Emmerson Mnangagwa is illegitimate and no amount of diversionary tactics will change this fact. The party further noted that preparations for the main Congress are at an advanced stage and 6,800 delegates are ready for the event to be held on May 24th in Gweru. That process is irreversible. We shall hold a historic and joyous Congress under the theme: Defining a new course for Zimbabwe. A Zimbabwean court has ruled that Movement for Democratic Change leader Nelson Chamisa and his deputy Elias Mudzuri were improperly appointed by the late Morgan Tsvangirai, according to the state-controlled Herald newspaper. The High Court made the ruling today in a matter filed by a person identified as Elias Mashavire, who challenged Tsvangirais appointment of what he called his blue-eyed boys to the two posts ahead of other party members. Justice Edith Mushores ruling, reports the Herald, implies that Chamisa cannot preside over MDC matters. The MDC leader has already been endorsed by all 13 provinces of the party as the sole presidential candidate in the May 24th elective Congress. Chamisas spokesperson, Dr. Nkululeko Sibanda, claimed that the judgement was an indication that the judiciary has been captured by Zanu PF. Efforts to contact the ruling party were unsuccessful as party spokesperson Simon Khaya Moyo was not responding to calls on his mobile phone. John Pilger on Julian Assange - Venezuela The persecution of Julian Assange and the US assault on Venezuela are two urgent issues. In this interview on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, John Pilger refutes the disinformation campaigns against both. Julian Assange is fighting an extradition request from the US, over charges relating to the leaks of classified government material. Posted May 07, 2019 John Pilger on Julian Assange: Your browser does not support the audio element. Do you agree or disagree? Post your comment here This article was originally published by " ABC Australia " - Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter ==See Also== George Galloway on US Foreign Policy Note To ICH Community 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. Thank you for your support. Peace and joy The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. By Fred Reed May 07, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Pompeo: My Faith in Jesus Christ Makes a Real Difference Pompeo says God may have sent Trump to save Israel from Iran As a Christian, I certainly believe thats possible, said Mr Pompeo.I am confident that the Lord is at work here, Pence, a Catholic Evangelical who almost became a priest: I made a commitment to Christ. Christians? These Christians support a war on Yemen in which huge numbers of people are dying of mutilation, cholera, and starvation, a war they could stop with a telephone call. They similarly support butchery of Afghans from the air, massive killing in Syria, bombing of Somalis, and torture chambers around the world. Such is their Christianity. They lack even a shred of human decency. But they are Christians. Tell me, Mr Pompeo, Mr. Pence:. Have you ever seen a child die of starvation? I have heard it described. It takes many days. Crying, crying, crying, slowly getting weaker. The mother, frantic, desperate, going crazy. The child holds out his arms, expecting as children do that their mother will do something. The crying eventually stops. But maybe you would get more of a kick out of watching one die of cholera caused by your wars. Death by cholera is quicker, but more interesting: Puking and defecating uncontrollably, crying, crying. The dehydration kills them. Neat, huh? Meanwhile, Mike, you eat prime rib in Washington and talk of the sanctity of your faith. You are a goddamned pious monster. May you rot in hell, if any. We have Pompeo, a malignant manatee looking to start wars in which he will not risk his flabby amorphous ass also parading his Christianity. Bolton, a mean sonofabitch who belongs in a strait jacket, at least doesnt pose as someone having a soul. And the Golden Tufted Cocatoo, too weak to control those around him, preening and tweeting. God save us. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Those of a certain age may remember Christianity as a vague though real niceness practiced by people who would have been equally nice without it. Christmas meant trees glowing with lights and a nativity seen on the town square, this not yet being illegal, and choirs of children singing carols in front of houses, carols on public streets not yet having been found unconstitutional. It means a spaniel-eyed Jesus looking skyward in sappy adoration. It was pleasant. This is not the Christianity of Pence and Pompeo. They are amoral Christians. They are cruel Christians. They are evil Christians. A politically useful tendencyuseful to Mike Penceis to think of Christianity as a quaint and beleaguered faith rooted in goodness and kindness and concern for others. Historically this has not been the case. Christianity has a record of savagery, of bestial religious wars, torture, the burning of heretics. In Zacatecas, Mexico, there is a museum of instruments of torture used by the Inquisition. They are too sickening to describe. This was not the Christianity of Jimmy Carter or Mother Theresa. It is the Christianity of Mike Pence and Pompeo. And they are Evangelicals. This may prove to be an even greater disqualification for office. Evangelicals arestrange. For the most part they are not evil, just people, often poorly educated, as best they can trying to make sense of an incomprehensible existence. (Rapture Culture is not a great book, but gives a fair picture of Evangelicals.) Theirs is a peculiar theology, one with implications for foreign policy. They believe in the Rapture. They believe that we are in the End Times. This means that one day soon the faithful will disappearpoofand be sucked up into heaven by the Rapture. Whoosh. The rest of us will endure the Tribulation, a time when the Antichrist will rule in chaos and savagery. Then Jesus will come and defeat him in the battle of Armageddon. None of this matters particularly in itself. Religions have often predicted the end of the world. They get over it. But: What does matter is the Evangelical belief that before the world can end, the Jews must gather in Israel and be converted to Christianity. This puts Evangelicals in the curious position of being pro-Israel but anti-Semitic. So far as I am aware, Jews have no enthusiasm for conversion. Those who believe this are called Christian Zionists, and their loyalty is to whatever they think God wants, not to peace, America, or reason. They are loyal to Israel because it is essential to the end of the world. This means that directing the foreign policy of the United States we have two fringe Christians, two Jews (Kushner and Ivanka) and an addled and easily led First Carrot. It means that Pompeo and Pence are driven not by practical consideration of the needs and well being of the United States but by loyalty to curious theological ideas and to a foreign country. They will do what fits these ideas. And they are simply bad men. Pence, speaking to Jews:.Let me say emphatically, like the overwhelming majority of my constituents, my Christian faith compels me to cherish the state of Israel. He backed that up last December at the Republican Jewish Coalitions conference when he said: Israels enemies are our enemies, Israels cause is our cause. If this world knows nothing else, let it know this: America stands with Israel. This is astounding. A vice President of the United States openly stating that he is loyal to a foreign country. If Israel wants war with Iran, then so does Pencebecause Israel wants it. If Israel pushes America into a war with Iran, which its control over Congress, finance, and the media may allow it to do, Pence will favor it. How many Americans have signed on to this? And in war he will take the rest of us along with him. Moving the embassy to Jerusalem.Recognizing Israeli sovereignty over Golan. Very likely, over the West Bank. Perhaps going to war against Iran for which there is no other reason. In this case millions will die for a screwball theology with the spiritual legitimacy of the Hare Krishnas. Can we take a vote on this? Instrument of Catholic Christianity, which Pence professes. While neither Pence nor Pompeo would go openly near a torture chamberbad PR, thatthey know that allies such as the Saudis and Israelis do such thing, and that Gina Haspel, head of the CIA and known sadist, does equivalent things in secret torture sites of which Pence and Pompeo are aware. Oh, but they are men of Jesus. In general, the more seriously Christianity is taken, the less pleasant it becomes. (This is equally true of all three Mid-Eastern religions.) Of course sub sects of Christians differ. At one extreme you have the Unitarians, who believe that if God existed, He would be a force for community betterment. At the other extreme you have the Catholics at their worst, tearing people slowly limb from limb. Christianity has a long and dismal history of oddball sects and heresies which often have fought bloody wars. Aryans, Cathars, Protestants, Mormons, Tai Pings, Moonies, Snake Handlers, Evangelicals. I have seen conservatives criticizing the Chinese for suppressing Christianity. The Chinese have their reasons. From 1850 to 1864 the Tai Pings, a truly screwy off-brand Christianity whose leader thought he was the little brother of Jesus, caused what may have been the bloodiest civil war in history. When leaders think they are on Whatsapp with God, they will do what they think He tells them. And if God says to smite Iran, smite Iran they will. Grotesque torture as a means of social control was not limited to Mexico or Catholics. The history of Europe is a monstrous tapestry of barbarism by those three awful Mid-Eastern religions warring, butchering, burning heretics, the rack, strappado, The Jews behaved much less badly because ,lacking a country and an army, they had to. When they acquired these things, they began behaving like Christians and Moslems. Maybe we should leave foreign policy to diplomats. Fred, a keyboard mercenary with a disorganized past, has worked on staff for Army Times, The Washingtonian, Soldier of Fortune, Federal Computer Week, and The Washington Times. https://fredoneverything.org By Patrick J. Buchanan May 07, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Last week, it was Venezuela in Americas gun sights. "While a peaceful solution is desirable, military action is possible," thundered Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. "If thats what is required, thats what the United States will do." John Bolton tutored Vladimir Putin on the meaning of the Monroe Doctrine: "This is our hemisphere. Its not where the Russians ought to be interfering." After Venezuelas army decided not to rise up and overthrow Nicholas Maduro, by Sunday night, it was Iran that was in our gun sights. Bolton ordered the USS Abraham Lincoln, its carrier battle group and a bomber force to the Mideast "to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force." What "attack" was Bolton talking about? According to Axios, Israel had alerted Bolton that an Iranian strike on U.S. interests in Iraq was imminent. Flying to Finland, Pompeo echoed Boltons warning: "Weve seen escalatory actions from the Iranians, and we will hold the Iranians accountable for attacks on American interests. (If) these actions take place, if they do by some third-party proxy, whether thats a Shia militia group or the Houthis or Hezbollah, we will hold the Iranian leadership directly accountable for that." Taken together, the Bolton-Pompeo threats add up to an ultimatum that any attack by Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, or Iran-backed militias on Israel, Saudi Arabia, the UAE or U.S. forces in Iraq, Syria or the Gulf states will bring a U.S. retaliatory response on Iran itself. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Did President Donald Trump approve of this? For he appears to be going along. He has pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal and re-imposed sanctions. Last week, he canceled waivers he had given eight nations to let them continue buying Iranian oil. Purpose: Reduce Irans oil exports, 40% of GDP, to zero, to deepen an economic crisis that is already expected to cut Irans GDP this year by 6%. Trump has also designated Iran a terrorist state and the Republican Guard a terrorist organization, the first time we have done that with the armed forces of a foreign nation. We dont even do that with North Korea. Iran responded last Tuesday by naming the U.S. a state sponsor of terror and designating U.S. forces in the Middle East as terrorists. Iran has also warned that if we choke off its oil exports that exit the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz, the Strait could be closed to other nations. As 30% of the worlds oil shipments transit the Strait, closing it could cause a global crash. In 1973, when President Nixon rescued Israel in the Yom Kippur War, the OPEC Arabs imposed an oil embargo. Gas prices spiked so high Nixon considered taking a train to Florida for Christmas vacation. The gas price surge so damaged Nixons standing with the public that it became a contributing factor in the drive for impeachment. Today, Trumps approval rating in the Gallup Poll has reached an all-time high, 46%, a level surely related to the astonishing performance of the U.S. economy following Trumps tax cuts and sweeping deregulation. While a Gulf war with Iran might be popular at the outset, what would it do for the U.S. economy or our ability to exit the forever war of the Middle East, as Trump has pledged to do? In late April, in an interview with Fox News, Irans foreign minister identified those he believes truly want a U.S.-Iranian war. Asked if Trump was seeking the confrontation and the "regime change" that Bolton championed before becoming his national security adviser, Mohammad Javad Zarif said no. "I do not believe President Trump wants to do that. I believe President Trump ran on a campaign promise of not bringing the United States into another war. "President Trump himself has said that the U.S. spent $7 trillion in our region and the only outcome of that was that we have more terror, we have more insecurity, and we have more instability. "People in our region are making the determination that the presence of the United States is inherently destabilizing. I think President Trump agrees with that." But if it is not Trump pushing for confrontation and war with Iran, who is? Said Zarif, "I believe the B-team wants to actually push the United States, lure President Trump, into a confrontation that he doesnt want." And who makes up "the B-team"? Zarif identifies them: Bolton, Benjamin Netanyahu, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed. Should the B-team succeed in its ambitions it will be Trumps war, and Trumps presidency will pay the price. Patrick J. Buchanan is the author of "Nixon's White House Wars: The Battles That Made and Broke a President and Divided America Forever." To find out more about Patrick Buchanan and read features by other Creators writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators website at www.creators.com . In the immediate vicinity of the defendant vehicle, multiple closed beers were located and an open box labeled as a 30-pack of Busch beer, according to records. The inside of the vehicle had the strong odor of alcoholic beverage. More Busch beers were hidden in a nearby drainage ditch. Schauer, the 18-year-old passenger in Schroeders SUV, told investigators Schroeder threw beer cans in an attempt to hide them from police, an arrest affidavit states. Investigators said Schroeder bought the beer and gave it to the 18-year-old, the affidavit says. Schauer told police they had been drinking beer prior to the crash. During an interview with the defendant, the defendant admitted to disregarding the stop sign, admitted to consuming four beers before the crash and to driving the vehicle at the time of the crash, the affidavit states. Two other witnesses were interviewed and described the defendants driving behavior before the crash as being reckless and dangerous. In the past, Transformation Waco has secured eye exams and eyeglasses for students with vision needs who were identified through screenings by school nurses, the press release states. Through financial support from the Rapoport Foundation, 97 students from five schools received prescription eyeglasses provided by the Essilor Vision Foundation. Rapoport Foundation administrative coordinator Jenny Peel said the foundation knew it needed to help bring Vision Fest to Waco after hearing about similar vision events Essilor had conducted before. It was a no-brainer, Peel said of getting the foundations board to agree to help with Vision Fest. If you can help them be able to see, you can solve a lot of problems. Just ask Transformation Waco CEO Robin McDurham. She often tells the story of one student who read everything on two different lines. Can you imagine how difficult it is to learn reading that way? McDurham said. You have to be able to see to read. But the problems do not end there. McDurham said vision impairment sometimes leads to students zoning out during lessons or misbehaving in class. This is an important week for all Americans who rely on small businesses. Its National Small Business Week. Besides supporting small businesses in your local community, it presents a great opportunity to learn about the essential role small-business entrepreneurs and their employees play in the American economy. According to the Small Business Administration, there are more than 30 million small businesses in the United States employing nearly 60 million people. When stacked up against other participants in the business community, small businesses account for 99 percent of all enterprises in the country. For the past decade, small businesses have been responsible for creating two-thirds of all net new jobs, empowering local economies all across the country. Not a lot of large businesses would open a location in a town of a few thousand people, yet you cant go anywhere in America without running across a small business. They are truly the hallmark and cornerstone of Main Street. Last year, small-business owners received a much-needed boost in the form of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, ushering in a red-hot economy. With more money in their coffers, small businesses have been able to invest in growth and their employees. The macro-economic indicators clearly show the progress. No one questions the significance of this contest. The first-mover advantage in 5G will be enormous, setting up the victor for a decade of economic superiority and unprecedented technological growth. In 2017, research by the American Consumer Institute estimated that a nationwide 5G network in the United States would add some $533 billion to our gross domestic product and provide $1.2 trillion in long-run consumer benefits. As a practical matter, 5G will leave scarcely an aspect of modern life untouched. Thanks to increased bandwidth, ubiquitous connectivity and low latency, 5G will power everything from smart appliances and driverless cars to critical infrastructure and industrial robotics. It will also unlock new military and intelligence-gathering capabilities, making it even more crucial that the United States stay in the lead. The federal government should focus on establishing and maintaining a simple, predictable regulatory framework within which private companies can compete fiercely for the benefit of the American consumer. The FCC has embraced that approach through its 5G Fast Plan, which has removed onerous red tape, streamlined permitting and accelerated spectrum auctions. The rapid strides the United States has made in 5G readiness over the last year are thanks to these policies. Fair enough, though it would be mighty helpful if lawmakers worked harder to curtail misleading rhetoric regarding this incendiary topic. No one denies a crisis simmers at our southern border but the border, according to the mayors, police chiefs, sheriffs and county judges who live there, is not the criminal infestation of rural stretches and border towns that Trump speaks of during his fact-free campaign rallies. Rather, this crisis is clearly a humanitarian one that involves waves of undocumented immigrants, many quite obviously fleeing violence and oppression in Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala and seeking safe harbor in the United States. Yes, the number of Central Americans seeking asylum is astonishing. Border patrol agents reportedly apprehended 109,144 migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border in April, the highest monthly total since 2007. There were 189,584 apprehensions of family units (individuals traveling in a family) in the first six months of fiscal 2019, accounting for 53 percent of apprehensions. While these numbers remain below historical highs, theres no denying its a wake-up call for our nation. But to effect policy legally (rather than through the unconstitutional means our impulsive president pursues), lawmakers must earnestly work together on bills such as that put forward by Cornyn and Cuellar, one that Cornyn says offers far greater impact than anything thats been proposed by the administration. Lets hope this is a sure step toward comprehensive immigration reform with the understanding by all that successful lawmaking requires that both sides not only gain something in the bargain but concede something as well. Otherwise, the crisis will remain one of American leadership above all else. Wasting taxpayer money The Waco city manager recently authorized a $42,000 contract for energy planning services between the City of Waco and Shaw Engineering LLC, owned by Bryan Shaw, Ph.D., P.E. Dr. Shaws educational background is in agricultural engineering. He spent time as an associate professor at Texas A&M teaching courses in air pollution and was appointed chairman of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality in 2009. He founded Shaw Engineering in October 2018 after abruptly retiring from the TCEQ that August. In addition to lacking the appropriate background and experience to perform municipal energy planning services, Dr. Shaw has a history of expressing opinions contrary to the conclusions of the global scientific community on climate change. These scientific sources state that the level of climate change being experienced globally is predominantly a result of anthropogenic greenhouse-gas emissions and that immediate action in all sectors is necessary to mitigate further environmental and economic impacts. Shriver wasnt the only one thanking the community however, Jeff Raikes, an Ashland-Greenwood alum and co-founder of the Raikes Foundation, also came home for Fridays activities. His work with Microsoft Corporation and his philanthropic activities have taken him around the world and he now lives in Seattle, but he still called Ashland home and he applauded the unified athletes. This is still home to me and all of you represent the values I learned here, he told the athletes during the opening ceremony. Also back in Ashland for the event were alumni Ben Stille and Tyler Craven and both offered insights during the opening ceremony as well. Their message was one of teamwork. Craven also told the athletes to have a desire to excel and no fear of failure. During the track and field events, U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse also stopped in for a visit. He too praised the athletes for determination. Thanks for the grit. Thanks for the character, he said. As Brown puts her hands on her clients, she said she follows the energy flowing from the joints and organs of their body. She also transfers her energy to the client through touch. Im not doing the healing, I feel like Im present for the healing, she said. I balance the energy field and set the body in a balanced state so they could heal themselves. The session is very relaxing for the client, Brown said. People have described it as a massage for the brain, she added. A Christian, Brown also prays for her client during the session. I intend for the highest good for that person, she said. Healing touch exists in some form all over the world, according to Brown. Youll find healing touch in basically every culture and religion out there, she said. It took Brown three years to complete the five levels of Healing Beyond Borders training. She had to complete 80 hours of educational units and 100 practicum hours before she could clinically apply what she learned. WAVERLY The new Waverly city clerk really isnt new to the city offices Hope Staten has been working part-time at city hall since January. But last month, Staten was tapped as the new city clerk/deputy treasurer. Staten said she is settling into her new role, but there is still a big learning curve. It definitely helped being part time and not just jumping in, she said. Staten got to taste a little bit of what her new job would be like when she helped to fill in this past month during the search for the new clerk. She said she is enjoying the work. Working for a city, however, is not something that Staten had previously envisioned herself doing. I never thought Id like being in the government, but I am actually enjoying knowing what is going on in the community, she said. Getting to know the Waverly community is definitely a plus for her too. Originally from Oregon, Staten said she likes the atmosphere and people of her new community. 1,000 Israeli Soldiers To Arrive in Honduras to Train Troops, Police on Border Protection By teleSUR May 07, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - Honduras will receive 1,000 Israeli soldiers to train the country's army for border protection, fight against drug trafficking, investigation, and counterterrorism. Honduras will receive 1,000 Israeli soldiers to train the country's army for border protection, fight against drug trafficking, investigation, and counterterrorism. A multilateral military treaty between Honduras, Israel, and the United States will see the deployment of 1000 Israeli soldiers at Honduras. They will train the Armed Forces of Honduras (FFAA) and National Police (PN). The main mission of the troops is to train for border protection to stop migrants fleeing Honduras to the U.S., especially children. This would be the second time that Honduras is allowing foreign military personnel in the territory and the first time in Israels history to send troops abroad. Apart from border protection, fight against drug trafficking, investigation, and counterterrorism will be offered as well. According to local news media El Heraldo, the presence of Israeli soldiers is part of bilateral cooperation between the two countries before Honduras transferred its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter The Israeli army will share space with the Joint Task Force-Bravo (FTCB) of the U.S. at the Jose Enrique Soto Cano air base in Palmerola. Honduras also has an agreement of more than a million dollars with Israel in terms of purchasing arms, military equipment, and repowering ships and planes. The 10-year agreement was signed in 2016. The military training agreement was joined by the U.S. because they have a permanent military base in Palmerola and want Honduras to guard their borders due to an upsurge of migrants going towards the North American nation. The agreement was discussed between Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and the U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during the inauguration of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. This article was originally published by " teleSUR " - Montanas legislature took the unusual step of exempting older, less-valued mobile homes from property tax as a way to stem homelessness. The bipartisan legislation, which Gov. Steve Bullock signed into law last week, aims to keep people in their homes. It exempts mobile and manufactured homes worth less than $10,000 and at least 28 years old from taxation starting next year. In Montana, a state with just over a million people, there are more than 22,000 residences where owners are in danger of losing their homes and being evicted if they cant pay their taxes. Legislative staff in Helena estimates at least 45,000 people would end up homeless (figuring an average two people live in each home). The impact of taxes forgone is $170,000 annually. Proponents argued the state spends more money sending out delinquent tax notices and hiring sheriffs deputies to post those notices than the taxes collected, according to the Billings Gazette. Often mobile home owners who lose their homes have no place to go. Consequently, the state scrambles to find and pay for temporary shelter while those confiscated mobile homes are sold at auction to the highest bidders. Missoula community activist Svein Newman told the Gazette many of those homeowners are single working parents and seniors living on fixed incomes. If they lose their home because of a $70 tax bill, they cannot afford a security deposit on an apartment. The reality is replacement housing beyond their financial means. According to 2017 research by Harvard University, almost 40 million Americans live in housing they cannot afford. Homeownership has gone down and rental prices keep going up, meaning that millions of residents are forced to pay more than they reasonably can. For example, Zillow.com reports the median price of a 3-bedroom home nationally is $226,700 (March 2019). In Seattle, it was $334,000 and $309,400 in Portland. If you live in Helena, a two-bedroom apartment with washer and dryer rents for $900 a month. Comparatively, rent in Seattle for a two-bedroom without washer and dryer is $1,600, according to the most recent National Apartment List Rent Report. One-bedroom apartment rents in King County have climbed 53 percent over the last five years and for every five percent increase, 258 people in Seattle become homeless, a Zillow study found. Finding replacement housing is expensive for taxpayers. In its award-winning 2017 report, the Puget Sound Business Journal (PSBJ) found that building one affordable apartment in Seattle costs $300,000. The price for building 12,000 units is $3.6 billion. Washingtons Dept. of Commerce, which manages statewide data on homelessness, calculated how much it cost for a homeless person in King County to exit to permanent housing for three types of programs: emergency shelter, $14,207; transitional housing (temporary stays in a subsidized project), $12,021; and, rapid rehousing (rental subsidies on the private market), $7,351. This situation is particularly hard on the working poor. Across the U.S., Harvard researchers found, 70 percent of lowest-income households face severe housing cost burdens. That means more than half of their income goes toward housing. Addressing homelessness is complicated. The growing economic and human impacts are straining budgets at all levels of government, draining charitable organizations and impacting tourism, local merchants and open spaces. PSBJ spent six months examining the budgets of dozens of nonprofits that work on the issue; city and county budgets; police and emergency calls to encampments and resource centers; hospital services; permanent and temporary housing; and drug treatment and outreach. In 2017, the estimate was $1.06 billion. It now could be over $2 billion. Montanas new approach is worth tracking. Hopefully, it is a prototype which works. Don C. Brunell is a business analyst, writer and columnist. He recently retired as president of the Association of Washington Business, the states oldest and largest business organization, and now lives in Vancouver. He can be contacted at theBrunells@msn.com. By Paul Craig Roberts May 07, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - I smell a rat. John Bolton, Trumps national security adviser or, more correctly, Israels agent, has assembled a team consisting of himself, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Emirati crown prince Mohammed bin Zayed, and Saudi ruler Mohammed bin Salman. These men are Irans four worst enemies. The purpose of the team is to produce a false flag event that will provide an excuse for Washington to attack Iran. As the Israelis are the most competent member of this team, the speculation is that Israel will shoot down an American aircraft or attack a US Navy vessel, and Washington will have the presstitute media blame it on Iran. In other words, a revival of the Northwoods Project that the US Joint Chiefs presented to President Kennedy in hopes of setting up a US invasion of Cuba. The plot seems already to have been set in motion. Both Bolton and acting Pentagon secretary Patrick Shanahan have announced their detection of a credible threat by Iranian regime forces. We call on the Iranian regime to cease all provocation. We will hold the Iranian regime accountable for any attack on US forces or our interests. To be clear, the threat and the provocation are not identified. But they are somehow happening even though no news services and no governments anywhere in the world, excepting Washington, Israel and Saudi Arabia, are aware of the escalatory action from the Iranians. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Bolton has sent an aircraft carrier strike group and bomber taskforce to quell the unidentified threat. It turns out that the Iranian threat to America was uncovered byyou guessed itIsrael. The Iranian foreign minister, Javad Zarif, has denounced the false accusation against Iran as fake news to justify an attack on Iran. Secretary of State Pompeo added his accusations against Iran: It is absolutely the case that weve seen escalatory action from the Iranians, and it is equally the case that we will hold the Iranians accountable for attacks on American interests. CNN furthered the false flag event by quoting unnamed officials confirming that the US had specific and credible intelligence that Iranian forces were targeting US forces. Here we go again. Sounds exactly like Saddam Husseins weapons of mass destruction, Assads use of chemical weapons, etc., etc., etc. Possibly this orchestration is designed to provoke Iran into ceasing to comply with the Iranian nuclear agreement. The US attempted to wreck the agreement by pulling out of it, but Iran and the other governments that signed the agreementFrance, UK, Germany, Russia and Chinahave continued to respect it. If Washington can provoke Iran into pulling out of the agreement, Washington can isolate Iran by depriving Iran of Russia and Chinas support and Europes opposition to the US sanctions. Possibly Russia, China, and Europe will not be misled by Washingtons ploy and will stick with Iran, as war with Iran is in no ones interest except the rulers of Israel and Saudi Arabia. The shamelessness and audacity of John Bolton are extraordinary. After decades of Washington and Israeli false accusations and orchestrated events to overthrow governments in the way of Ziocon agendas, here we witness it all over again. Success breeds success. If the Russian and Chinese governments do not have sufficient awareness of reality to let the warmongers in Washington know that there will be NO attack on Iran, Russia will be next, and then it will be isolated Chinas turn. Russia and China cannot escape Washingtons hegemony by allowing it to succeed. If Bolton and Netanyahus plot succeeds, Iran will be the last step before nuclear war. Rome is awash with drinking fountains offering free water. Tourists arriving in Rome can do their bit for the environment by avoiding or limiting their use of plastic bottles by availing of the city's ubiquitous drinking fountains. Known is Rome as nasoni, there are more than 2,000 of these fountains providing fresh running water for free. Visitors to the Colosseum can also avail of a sparkling water dispenser at a kiosk outside the Colosseo metro. In addition to helping the environment, tourists will avoid paying inflated prices for bottled water at mobile snack bars or from street hawkers selling water illegally. There is even a helpful map of Rome's drinking fountains. Photos and magnets that belonged to JP Rodriguezs great-grandmother are displayed in the 6-year-olds bedroom in Miami. (Josh Ritchie for The Post) The empty seats at holiday tables this month have many families mourning. The talks over the disaster aid bill were already fraught because of a fight between President Trump and congressional Democrats over spending for Puerto Rico. Trump has yet to agree to a deal offering more than $600 million for the U.S. island territorys food stamp program, while Democrats say much more is required for needs on many fronts as Puerto Rico recovers slowly from the devastations of Hurricane Maria. Senate Republicans have been prepared to offer more though perhaps not enough to satisfy Democrats but it has been unclear whether the White House would support their plans. Hes the president of the United States, were going to try to get some work done with him, but we do have a responsibility to our own oath of office: To protect and defend the Constitution, to do just that. He takes the same oath. I dont think he takes it seriously, so it tells me nothing, Pelosi said of the New York Times report. In December 2018 and during the first quarter of 2019, we learned of allegations by federal authorities of fraudulent income conduct by the sponsor of these funds, Berkshire said Saturday in the filing, without naming the sponsor. As a result of our investigation into these allegations, we now believe that it is more likely than not that the income tax benefits that we recognized are not valid. Democrats have said obtaining the tax returns is necessary for their oversight responsibilities, such as ensuring the Internal Revenue Service is properly performing its duty to audit presidential returns. But Mnuchin has said repeatedly that their request for these records could be an invasion of Trumps privacy and become a fishing expedition. Congressional Republicans have closed ranks around the president and accused Neal of abusing his position in a way that could set a dangerous precedent for the privacy of individual tax returns. May 07, 2019 " Information Clearing House " - In its latest budget request, the Trump administration is asking for a near-record $750 billion for the Pentagon and related defense activities, an astonishing figure by any measure. If passed by Congress, it will, in fact, be one of the largest military budgets in American history, topping peak levels reached during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. And keep one thing in mind: that $750 billion represents only part of the actual annual cost of our national security state. There are at least 10 separate pots of money dedicated to fighting wars, preparing for yet more wars, and dealing with the consequences of wars already fought. So the next time a president, a general, a secretary of defense, or a hawkish member of Congress insists that the U.S. military is woefully underfunded, think twice. A careful look at U.S. defense expenditures offers a healthy corrective to such wildly inaccurate claims. Now, lets take a brief dollar-by-dollar tour of the U.S. national security state of 2019, tallying the sums up as we go, and see just where we finally land (or perhaps the word should be soar), financially speaking. The Pentagons Base Budget: The Pentagons regular, or base, budget is slated to be $544.5 billion in Fiscal Year 2020, a healthy sum but only a modest down payment on total military spending. As you might imagine, that base budget provides basic operating funds for the Department of Defense, much of which will actually be squandered on preparations for ongoing wars never authorized by Congress, overpriced weapons systems that arent actually needed, or outright waste, an expansive category that includes everything from cost overruns to unnecessary bureaucracy. That $544.5 billion is the amount publicly reported by the Pentagon for its essential expenses and includes as well $9.6 billion in mandatory spending that goes toward items like military retirement. Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get our FREE Daily Newsletter Among those basic expenses, lets start with waste, a category even the biggest boosters of Pentagon spending cant defend. The Pentagons own Defense Business Board found that cutting unnecessary overhead, including a bloated bureaucracy and a startlingly large shadow workforce of private contractors, would save $125 billion over five years. Perhaps you wont be surprised to learn that the boards proposal has done little to quiet calls for more money. Instead, from the highest reaches of the Pentagon (and the president himself) came a proposal to create a Space Force, a sixth military service thats all but guaranteed to further bloat its bureaucracy and duplicate work already being done by the other services. Even Pentagon planners estimate that the future Space Force will cost $13 billion over the next five years (and thats undoubtedly a low-ball figure). In addition, the Defense Department employs an army of private contractors -- more than 600,000 of them -- many doing jobs that could be done far more cheaply by civilian government employees. Cutting the private contractor work force by 15% to a mere half-million people would promptly save more than $20 billion per year. And dont forget the cost overruns on major weapons programs like the Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent -- the Pentagons unwieldy name for the Air Forces new intercontinental ballistic missile -- and routine overpayments for even minor spare parts (like $8,000 for a helicopter gear worth less than $500, a markup of more than 1,500%). Then there are the overpriced weapons systems the military cant even afford to operate like the $13-billion aircraft carrier, 200 nuclear bombers at $564 million a pop, and the F-35 combat aircraft, the most expensive weapons system in history, at a price tag of at least $1.4 trillion over the lifetime of the program. The Project On Government Oversight (POGO) has found -- and the Government Accountability Office recently substantiated -- that, despite years of work and staggering costs, the F-35 may never perform as advertised. And dont forget the Pentagons recent push for long-range strike weapons and new reconnaissance systems designed for future wars with a nuclear-armed Russia or China, the kind of conflicts that could easily escalate into World War III, where such weaponry would be beside the point. Imagine if any of that money were devoted to figuring out how to prevent such conflicts, rather than hatching yet more schemes for how to fight them. Base Budget total: $554.1 billion The War Budget: As if its regular budget werent enough, the Pentagon also maintains its very own slush fund, formally known as the Overseas Contingency Operations account, or OCO. In theory, the fund is meant to pay for the war on terror -- that is, the U.S. wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia, Syria, and elsewhere across the Middle East and Africa. In practice, it does that and so much more. After a fight over shutting down the government led to the formation of a bipartisan commission on deficit reduction -- known as Simpson-Bowles after its co-chairs, former Clinton Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles and former Republican Senator Alan Simpson -- Congress passed the Budget Control Act of 2011. It officially put caps on both military and domestic spending that were supposed to save a total of $2 trillion over 10 years. Half of that figure was to come from the Pentagon, as well as from nuclear weapons spending at the Department of Energy. As it happened, though, there was a huge loophole: that war budget was exempt from the caps. The Pentagon promptly began to put tens of billions of dollars into it for pet projects that had nothing whatsoever to do with current wars (and the process has never stopped). The level of abuse of this fund remained largely secret for years, with the Pentagon admitting only in 2016 that just half of the money in the OCO went to actual wars, prompting critics and numerous members of Congress -- including then-Congressman Mick Mulvaney, now President Trumps latest chief of staff -- to dub it a slush fund. This years budget proposal supersizes the slush in that fund to a figure that would likely be considered absurd if it werent part of the Pentagon budget. Of the nearly $174 billion proposed for the war budget and emergency funding, only a little more than $25 billion is meant to directly pay for the wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. The rest will be set aside for whats termed enduring activities that would continue even if those wars ended, or to pay for routine Pentagon activities that couldnt be funded within the constraints of the budget caps. The Democratic-controlled House of Representatives is expected to work to alter this arrangement. Even if the House leadership were to have its way, however, most of its reductions in the war budget would be offset by lifting caps on the regular Pentagon budget by corresponding amounts. (Its worth noting that President Trumps budget calls for someday eliminating the slush fund.) The 2020 OCO also includes $9.2 billion in emergency spending for building Trumps beloved wall on the U.S.-Mexico border, among other things. Talk about a slush fund! There is no emergency, of course. The executive branch is just seizing taxpayer dollars that Congress refused to provide. Even supporters of the presidents wall should be troubled by this money grab. As 36 former Republican members of Congress recently argued, What powers are ceded to a president whose policies you support may also be used by presidents whose policies you abhor. Of all of Trumps security-related proposals, this is undoubtedly the most likely to be eliminated, or at least scaled back, given the congressional Democrats against it. War Budget total: $173.8 billion Running tally: $727.9 billion The Department of Energy/Nuclear Budget: It may surprise you to know that work on the deadliest weapons in the U.S. arsenal, nuclear warheads, is housed in the Department of Energy (DOE), not the Pentagon. The DOEs National Nuclear Security Administration runs a nationwide research, development, and production network for nuclear warheads and naval nuclear reactors that stretches from Livermore, California, to Albuquerque and Los Alamos, New Mexico, to Kansas City, Missouri, to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to Savannah River, South Carolina. Its laboratories also have a long history of program mismanagement, with some projects coming in at nearly eight times the initial estimates. Nuclear Budget total: $24.8 billion Running tally: $752.7 billion Defense Related Activities: This category covers the $9 billion that annually goes to agencies other than the Pentagon, the bulk of it to the FBI for homeland security-related activities. Defense Related Activities total: $9 billion Running tally: $761.7 billion The five categories outlined above make up the budget of whats officially known as national defense. Under the Budget Control Act, this spending should have been capped at $630 billion. The $761.7 billion proposed for the 2020 budget is, however, only the beginning of the story. The Veterans Affairs Budget: The wars of this century have created a new generation of veterans. In all, over 2.7 million U.S. military personnel have cycled through the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001. Many of them remain in need of substantial support to deal with the physical and mental wounds of war. As a result, the budget for the Department of Veterans Affairs has gone through the roof, more than tripling in this century to a proposed $216 billion. And this massive figure may not even prove enough to provide the necessary services. More than 6,900 U.S. military personnel have died in Washingtons post-9/11 wars, with more than 30,000 wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan alone. These casualties are, however, just the tip of the iceberg. Hundreds of thousands of returning troops suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), illnesses created by exposure to toxic burn pits, or traumatic brain injuries. The U.S. government is committed to providing care for these veterans for the rest of their lives. An analysis by the Costs of War Project at Brown University has determined that obligations to veterans of the Iraq and Afghan wars alone will total more than $1 trillion in the years to come. This cost of war is rarely considered when leaders in Washington decide to send U.S. troops into combat. Veterans Affairs total: $216 billion Running tally: $977.7 billion The Homeland Security Budget: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a mega-agency created after the 9/11 attacks. At the time, it swallowed 22 then-existing government organizations, creating a massive department that currently has nearly a quarter of a million employees. Agencies that are now part of DHS include the Coast Guard, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Secret Service, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, and the Office of Intelligence and Analysis. While some of DHSs activities -- such as airport security and defense against the smuggling of a nuclear weapon or dirty bomb into our midst -- have a clear security rationale, many others do not. ICE -- Americas deportation force -- has done far more to cause suffering among innocent people than to thwart criminals or terrorists. Other questionable DHS activities include grants to local law enforcement agencies to help them buy military-grade equipment. Homeland Security total: $69.2 billion Running tally: $1.0469 trillion The International Affairs Budget: This includes the budgets of the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Diplomacy is one of the most effective ways to make the United States and the world more secure, but it has been under assault in the Trump years. The Fiscal Year 2020 budget calls for a one-third cut in international affairs spending, leaving it at about one-fifteenth of the amount allocated for the Pentagon and related agencies grouped under the category of national defense. And that doesnt even account for the fact that more than 10% of the international affairs budget supports military aid efforts, most notably the $5.4 billion Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program. The bulk of FMF goes to Israel and Egypt, but in all over a dozen countries receive funding under it, including Jordan, Lebanon, Djibouti, Tunisia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine, Georgia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. International Affairs total: $51 billion Running tally: $1.0979 trillion The Intelligence Budget: The United States has 17 separate intelligence agencies. In addition to the DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis and the FBI, mentioned above, they are the CIA; the National Security Agency; the Defense Intelligence Agency; the State Departments Bureau of Intelligence and Research; the Drug Enforcement Agencys Office of National Security Intelligence; the Treasury Departments Office of Intelligence and Analysis; the Department of Energys Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence; the National Reconnaissance Office; the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency; Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance; the Armys Intelligence and Security Command; the Office of Naval Intelligence; Marine Corps Intelligence; and Coast Guard Intelligence. And then theres that 17th one, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, set up to coordinate the activities of the other 16. We know remarkably little about the nature of the nations intelligence spending, other than its supposed total, released in a report every year. By now, its more than $80 billion. The bulk of this funding, including for the CIA and NSA, is believed to be hidden under obscure line items in the Pentagon budget. Since intelligence spending is not a separate funding stream, its not counted in our tally below (though, for all we know, some of it should be). Intelligence Budget total: $80 billion Running tally (still): $1.0979 trillion Defense Share of Interest on the National Debt: The interest on the national debt is well on its way to becoming one of the most expensive items in the federal budget. Within a decade, it is projected to exceed the Pentagons regular budget in size. For now, of the more than $500 billion in interest taxpayers fork over to service the governments debt each year, about $156 billion can be attributed to Pentagon spending. Defense Share of National Debt total: $156.3 billion Final tally: $1.2542 trillion So, our final annual tally for war, preparations for war, and the impact of war comes to more than $1.25 trillion -- more than double the Pentagons base budget. If the average taxpayer were aware that this amount was being spent in the name of national defense -- with much of it wasted, misguided, or simply counterproductive -- it might be far harder for the national security state to consume ever-growing sums with minimal public pushback. For now, however, the gravy train is running full speed ahead and its main beneficiaries -- Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and their cohorts -- are laughing all the way to the bank. William D. Hartung, a TomDispatch regular, is the director of the Arms and Security Project at the Center for International Policy and the author of Prophets of War: Lockheed Martin and the Making of the Military-Industrial Complex. Mandy Smithberger, a TomDispatch regular, is the director of the Center for Defense Information at the Project On Government Oversight. Follow TomDispatch on Twitter and join us on Facebook. Check out the newest Dispatch Books, John Feffers new dystopian novel (the second in the Splinterlands series) Frostlands, Beverly Gologorsky's novel Every Body Has a Story, and Tom Engelhardt's A Nation Unmade by War, as well as Alfred McCoy's In the Shadows of the American Century: The Rise and Decline of U.S. Global Power and John Dower's The Violent American Century: War and Terror Since World War II. Copyright 2019 William D. Hartung and Mandy Smithberger This article was originally published by " Tom Dispatch " - Oguntokuns monologues are each based on a specific incident, and it becomes painfully vivid what it was like to be in school, then to be at gunpoint with not real soldiers firing in front of and behind the students, what it felt like to be captured in a truck and to jump out, running terrified through the night. Another escape feels like a different kind of miracle as a woman dares to put her hand on a gunmans rifle, saying, Let us not kill tonight. Somehow, that worked. The share of those border-crossers who show up in large groups has put additional strain on U.S. agents. Border Patrol has taken in 135 large groups consisting of 100 or more migrants in the past seven months, 10 times the total during all of 2018, according to the latest statistics. On April 30, a group of 421 adults and children crossed in the El Paso area, the single-largest group CBP has ever seen, officials said. The group said the number of Christian refugee arrivals, including members of persecuted Christian groups, has plummeted by 42 percent during the same time period. There has been a 98 percent drop in the number of admitted Yazidis, an ancient religious minority group the United Nations considers victims of an Islamic State genocide. Many Yazidis were killed when the extremist group overran their community in northern Iraq, while others were kidnapped, raped and forced into servitude in Syria. Some Yazidis who have instead sought refuge in Canada have been harassed by their former captors from afar. The opening course for each of Guos three tasting menus confirms his artistic bent. You wont have to wait long for it, either. The starter awaits you at the table, covered by an ornate porcelain dome. Your server will remove the lid to reveal a lip-smacking landscape composed of sliced, carved and rolled meats and vegetables. The chef builds the dish, called Butterfly in Love With the Flower, from top to bottom, but you eat it from bottom to top, as if to appreciate nature from the ground up, even as you destroy it. And you will destroy it. Kathryn Kelloggs husband introduced her to the bidet years ago, but she wasnt sold on it right away. It was interesting. It was not something that I had ever experienced before. But I was open to it because I wanted to reduce waste, she said. And I have to say the first time I tried it I was like, This is the most brilliant thing in the entire world. Why isnt this everywhere? I just think it makes so much more sense. You see gallery walls all through history, whether in grand estates in Moscow, at Monticello or in Diana Vreelands iconic apartment in New York, says Michelle Adams, editor and creative adviser at Artfully Walls, an online company that sells the work of more than 450 artists reproduced in digital giclee prints and has a collection for Anthropologie. It also sells pre-curated gallery walls you can try on for size with an online tool that shows how they will look in your room. Caleb was chosen from 102 kids recognized at the state level. Alexia Ayuk, 17, of Gaithersburg was the other honoree from Maryland. Shayla Young, 13, of Springfield and Justin Hu, 16, of Vienna were recognized from Virginia. Washington residents Skylar Thomas, 17, and Feven Tadele, 13, were also recognized. State honorees received $1,000 at a ceremony Sunday at the Smithsonians National Museum of Natural History. Skylar, a senior at Ballou Senior High School, worked as a summer youth camp counselor and tutor to help children from low-income neighborhoods. Feven, a seventh-grader at St. Augustine Catholic School, is a dedicated volunteer who provides food for the homeless, teaches Sunday school at her church and travels to Ethiopia to teach English. Ive always felt that the strategy of hodgepodge publishing has the stench of decline, said David Boardman, dean of the Temple University media school and the former executive editor of the Seattle Times. (He told me that he was speaking generally and was not familiar with specifics of the New Orleans situation.) Why the mad rush away from popular destinations? One of the big concerns for 2019 is overtourism, which arises when a place is being loved to death. As I noted already this year, the overtourism problem means that travelers need to research their trips a little more carefully, in case a closure or a daily visitor quota affects an intended destination. Practically speaking, that means going to Puglia instead of Tuscany, Slovenia instead of Austria and Bhutan instead of Tibet. Zig when everyone else zags. An official with the National Park Service, in an email response to an inquiry I sent, said the upper level of the park is currently wheelchair accessible. She also said this about plans: Additionally, we are in the process of completing construction documents for the next phases of rehabilitation of the park. During this project, well be adding an accessible route into the lower plaza level of the park. Once completed, this will allow complete access of that portion of the park to all. In addition, access will be available to the plaza area in front of the Presidential Memorial to President James Buchanan. We dont have a completion date yet but construction is anticipated to start sometime in 2020. Third Rd. N., 4100 block, 8:40 a.m. April 24. A female resident called police about a male acquaintance who entered the residence by force. He threatened and pushed her until a neighbor intervened. A 58-year-old Arlington man was arrested and charged. In February, after four public meetings, eight members of the 11-person Reflection and Action Group recommended the mural be archived and removed because the mural does not represent SFUSD values, Dudnick wrote in an email. The majority of the group expressed that the main reason to keep the mural up at the school is focused on the legacy of the artist, rather than experience of the students. They said Louis Girolami Jr., 60, of Bluemont, was driving west on Saturday morning when the vehicle ran off the right side of the road and struck an embankment head on. Police said he was not wearing a seat belt and was partially ejected. He died at a hospital, they said. These were among incidents reported by the Loudoun County Sheriffs Office and the Leesburg and Purcellville police. For information, contact your police or sheriffs department. By all accounts, Robert Pear of the New York Times was one of the most relentlessly probing journalists on the health-care beat, enlightening readers and rankling partisans with the clarity of his reportage and his savantlike understanding of the federal government and its arcana. With a seemingly ever-present byline on Page One of the Times, Mr. Pear was a constant and authoritative presence in Washington for four decades. They said Louis Girolami Jr., 60, of Bluemont, Va., was driving west on Route 7 Saturday morning when the vehicle ran off the right side of the road and struck an embankment head on. Police said he was not wearing a seatbelt and was partially ejected. He died at a hospital, they said. The man told agents he had the black Smith & Wesson in his car as he pulled up to a security checkpoint at the hotels entrance, according to the report. A police spokesman said the man was not believed to be a threat. A short time later after two foot chases and one vehicle chase on the Capital Beltway three suspects were in custody. Detectives charged each with three counts of felony robbery, asserting that they had crashed into two Montgomery County 7-Elevens in recent weeks and were about to do so to a third when officers interrupted them. Apple is reportedly within weeks of finalizing the retail location for its first iconic store in India. The company has shortlisted a few prime locations in Mumbai where it intends to open its first store in the region. Apple will be making a final decision in the next few weeks. The shortlisted spots are compared to Apples iconic store locations on Fifth Avenue in New York and Regent Street in London. Apple currently has no direct retail presence in India. It sells its products in the country via distributors and service providers who have opened retail chains based on the same minimalistic design as followed by Apple-owned retail stores across the world. While Apple has been looking to open its retail stores in India for a few years now, it could not fulfill the government regulation of sourcing at least 30 percent components locally for manufacturing purposes. Due to this, the company could never get around to making a direct retail presence in India. Apple is now looking to locally manufacture newer iPhones in India. Its manufacturing partner Foxconn is running trial production of iPhone XR in India and mass production is scheduled to begin at a factory in the suburbs of Chennai in a few hours. The move will help Apple meet the Indian government regulations and make a direct retail presence in India. The company will seek the necessary permissions from the Indian government in May or early June. Our Take iPhone sales have been steadily declining in India over the last 1-1.5 years. Recently, in a bid to spur sales, Apple dramatically reduced the iPhone XR prices in the region and put it on par with U.S. pricing thereby absorbing the additional duties and taxes it has to pay for importing the phones. While opening a premium retail store in India is unlikely to have a major impact on iPhone sales, it will further help in elevating Apples position as a premium brand in India. It remains to be seen though if Apples own retail stores will offer Today at Apple and Geniuses like it does in other parts of the world. [Via Bloomberg Holly Nicholson-Kluth, undersheriff for the Douglas County Sheriffs Office, said the shooting started in the middle school part of the campus, and an administrator called police after hearing shots. Police later said the two suspects, an adult and a juvenile, were students at the school, the Associated Press reported. The school is blocks away from a police substation, so officers responded within minutes. The race to 100 million paid subscribers was won by Spotify not too long ago. And while Apple Music is reportedly leading the charge in the U.S., the last reported total was 50 million paid subs for Apples service. But what about Google, which, technically, has two different streaming music services? According to Bloomberg, Google has reached 15 million paid subscribers. And thats including both YouTube Music and Google Play Music. To be fair, Google Play Music is going to be folded into YouTube Music in the (near?) future. At that point, Google should only have one primary streaming music service to take on Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora. One other note: The 15 million across both services also includes listeners that are on promotional accounts. So that number could see some shifting as those promotional offers fade out. The figure includes subscribers to two services YouTube Music and Google Play Music, an older service that is being folded into YouTube Music said the people, who asked not to be identified because the information isnt public. The number also includes some customers who are still on promotional trials. While Google did not officially comment on the numbers themselves, the company did provide a bit of context. According to the company, subscriptions to YouTube Music and Premium jumped up a whopping 60 percent between March of 2018 and March 2019. YouTube Music may be earning subscribers on a regular basis, but there does not seem to be an indication its actually catching up to the main rivals out there. Apple Music has been growing at a ridiculous rate sings its initial debut. And Spotify continues to dominate the market in terms of subscribers. Still, options are good, so hopefully YouTube Music doesnt disappear anytime soon. [via Bloomberg Britain has 1st coal-free week since Industrial Revolution: Britain has gone a week without burning coal for electricity for the first time since the 19th century. The National Grid said coal has not contributed to Britain's electricity mix since noon on May 1. The landmark was reached two years after Britain had its first coal-free day since the Industrial Revolution. The government says Britain will eliminate coal from its power supply by 2025. Emmet Flood, who is a White House lawyer to President Trump, and Attorney General William P. Barr should be extremely knowledgeable about federal law [Trump finds in Barr the shield he desired, front page, May 3]. Yet, in maintaining that special counsel Robert S. Mueller III did not do his job by refusing to make a decision on indicting Mr. Trump, both Mr. Flood and Mr. Barr are seeking to mislead the American public. The truth is that Mr. Mueller fulfilled his responsibility, and Mr. Flood and Mr. Barr did not. Mr. Mueller is aware of Justice Department policy not to indict a sitting president. Mr. Mueller recognized the reality of the situation and provided clear directions as to how Congress can at least pursue impeachment. Isnt it absurd, however, to consider obscure any phrase in the first two articles of the Constitution, wherein the language of emoluments is found? After all, the entire Constitution, familiar reading to most U.S. civics students, runs but a few pages in length; is written in plain English, is free from footnotes, endnotes or appendixes; and contains only a handful of critical phrases designed by the founders to establish the basic foundations of U.S. government. For instance, in the domestic emoluments clause (Article II, Section 1), the president of the United States, while in office, is barred from receiving any other Emolument than a salary determined by Congress. The Post reported April 25 that Mr. Trump has ordered his administration to prepare a push for new arms-control agreements with Russia and China. The exact nature of his order isnt known, but Mr. Trump is right to be concerned that many areas of nuclear weapons and systems to deliver them are not covered by treaties and agreements. Soon, the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty between the United States and Russia will be history; the Trump administration pulled the plug, saying Russia violated it with a new, prohibited ground-based cruise missile system. Shorter-range nonstrategic or tactical nuclear weapons, such as gravity bombs, of which Russia has a large stockpile and the United States fewer, have never been covered by a treaty. China, which has avoided nuclear arms control treaties, possesses a relatively small nuclear arsenal of about 300 warheads but has in recent years embarked on an aggressive spree of building new weapons systems, including cruise and other missiles. China has been given a pass for too long, and negotiations could fruitfully bring some transparency and verification to its opaque yet growing might. One of Rachels favorite books to read to her son was The Dark, by Lemony Snicket. It tells of a boy who learns not to be afraid of what he cant see. Hi, dark, he says, with ever greater courage. Rachel walked with us through the dark, urging us never to fear and reminding us that we are loved. She told us there was always room for us and our messy complexity. And as we struggled with uncertainty all around, she always returned us to her core conviction: We are loved. We are loved not just by her but also her all-embracing Jesus, with whom she now rests. There are Republicans who purport to care about more than Trumps well-being and comfort. With McConnell clearly all-in on the presidents twisting of the law and flouting of Congresss legitimate authority, Republican senators who claim to care about the Constitution need to speak up. And they should do so now , not after they have had weeks or months to put their fingers to the wind. Where are Sens. Cory Gardner, Susan Collins, Mitt Romney, Ben Sasse, Martha McSally, Joni Ernst and Thom Tillis? Any four of them could join with Senate Democrats to begin building a Coalition for Accountability. Yes, even, Bernie Sanders. Although raised Jewish, Sanders has acknowledged that he is not actively involved in organized religion. But asked about his faith during the 2016 campaign, he equivocated: Its a guiding principle in my life, absolutely. You know, everyone practices religion in a different way. To me, I would not be here tonight, I would not be running for president of the United States if I did not have very strong religious and spiritual feelings. So a candidate who doesnt mind calling himself a socialist refuses to say that he is a secular humanist if, in fact, thats what he is. Russia seeks to disrupt our elections again in 2020, with hacking and social media attacks and techniques unknown. Yet McConnell has the chutzpah to pronounce it case closed when he has been the leading obstacle to defending the U.S. election system against cyberattack by the Russians. Intelligence experts have been beating the drums to build defenses against a repeat of 2016. Every step of the way, McConnell has resisted. Perhaps he figures that because Putin helped his guy in 2016, hell do the same again in 2020? As a PTA president in Montgomery County, Im all for more data points to continue to understand the nuances of how we are preparing our kids, or not, for the rest of their lives. However, there comes a time when we study a problem too much and do too little. The data Mr. Smith cited tracks the report cards issued by the state of Maryland in December, which tracks other data points. What Im interested in are concrete initiatives by our schools to address the problem. This is nothing new and should not be treated as an issue that requires intensive research and study before action can be taken. But, Watson also said, its not too late to repair and sustain nature if we act now in transformative ways. It wont be enough for us to recycle our Dasani bottles or tote our own shopping bags, though these are helpful and keep us mindful. But big companies have to sign on, and governments have to create incentives and policies to advance sweeping change. Needless to say, this wont be easy. TO PUT it bluntly, we are not performing up to the standards and expectations we have for ourselves or each other. This is unacceptable. We cannot shrink from facing the challenge head on. We must, and will, do better. That was acting defense secretary Patrick Shanahan reacting to the grim report of a surge in sexual assaults in the U.S. military. His words would be inspiring if not for the sad fact this is not the first time indeed, far from it that the Pentagon has vowed to root out sexual misconduct. Inside the Capitol, Republicans stood with Trump, as they have repeatedly since the start of his presidency. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who frequently talks about the Constitution, said he was not concerned about the precedent the White House was setting in ignoring congressional subpoenas. He said he was more worried about the Democratic effort to obtain Trumps tax returns, likening it to a Pandoras box that would create a system where each party goes after the donors and the political parties and the candidates. The spotlight thrown on the topic by leaders of both parties shows the potency of addiction as a political issue and the continued impact of an overdose crisis that resulted in roughly 70,000 deaths in 2017, most of them from opioids. It also underlines the ongoing battle to appeal to white working-class voters, a group that was critical to Trumps 2016 victory and that Democrats hope to court. Democrats could vote as early as next week on the Barr contempt citation, according to an individual familiar with internal discussions who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the timeline has not been finalized. That vote would enable House counsels to take Barr to civil court and try to persuade a judge to force him to release Muellers evidence, one of many high-stakes legal fights between the executive and legislative branches. I was going to pay him and I was going to get the negatives and do an agreement where they turn over all technology that has the photographs or anything like that, any copies, Cohen told Arnold on the call. And it never happened. The guy just either deleted them on his own or what have you. The years since she left the FLRA havent softened the views of those who worked with her. Carol Waller Pope, who was a civil servant at the FLRA and later served as chairwoman of the agency during the Obama administration, said in an email Tuesday: Cabaniss leadership record at the FLRA makes her a controversial choice to serve as OPM Director. Her leadership at the FLRA was marked by mission performance deficiencies resulting in an OMB-mandated Corrective Action Plan to eliminate high case backlogs and improve agency performance. Im troubled when they want to limit legal migration, Durbin said. You have people who have literally waited 10 years or longer to be reunited with their family, and now, if they dont fit into the narrow categories of this merit immigration, they may never have a chance in their entire lives to come to the United States and join their families. But the fight is far from over. Just as it is finally getting a board, the Ex-Im Bank faces another fight over its very existence, as the 2015 legislation reauthorizing the agency is set to expire in the fall, setting up a debate that never seems to end and has left the banks supporters continually puzzled. For those too young to have experienced apartheid, there is only one South Africa: this one, with its abysmal public services, high unemployment rate and glaring inequality. Many townships, where most urban black people live, are in the shadow of posh, mostly white neighborhoods that look like the walled-off subdivisions of Malibu or Beverly Hills. The white unemployment rate hovers around 7 percent, close to the global average. In the summer of 2009, Bibi was picking fruit in a hot field with a group of Muslim women when an argument broke out over whether they would drink from a water container she had brought. Angry words were exchanged, and the women accused her of insulting Islam. She was confronted by local leaders and imprisoned. The following year, she was convicted and sentenced to death. Hasegawa confessed that he intended to stab Hisahito, news outlets reported, but ended up just leaving the knives to let the prince know he had been there. Why the knives were painted pink and bound to a bar was not explained. Wednesdays attack was the first claimed by the Taliban in Kabul in more than a month, but it came two weeks after armed men attacked a multistory government ministry in the citys downtown. At least seven people were killed in the attack, and security forces had to evacuate hundreds of office workers before the assailants were slain. That attack was claimed by the Islamic State. The birth was a global moment, too, with well-wishers ranging from Michelle Obama (Barack and I are so thrilled for both of you and cant wait to meet him) to the talk show host Ellen DeGeneres (The baby is 7th in line for the throne, which is crazy, because right now Im 7th in line for the key-making kiosk at my grocery store.) European leaders have tried for a year to scrape together incentives for Iran that could shield it from some of the pain of the U.S. sanctions. But their flagship effort a complicated investment entity intended to bypass some U.S. financial restrictions has failed to deliver. Most European companies have pulled out of Iran, calculating that the cost of U.S. wrath is far greater than any profit possible from trade with Tehran. We viewed that as a really good way for us at low cost to gain a deep understanding of how our adversaries are operating, but also to raise costs for them and simultaneously protect some of our allies, Haugh said, noting that it was something we had not done before. Rouhani said in a televised address Wednesday that Iran is preparing to keep its stockpiles of excess uranium and heavy water used in its nuclear reactors. Although he stopped short of announcing a complete withdrawal from the 2015 accord, he said Iran will resume the enrichment of high-grade uranium in 60 days unless more is done to improve economic conditions. Europe is caught between wanting Iran to keep its commitments under the agreement and not wanting to run afoul of U.S. sanctions. Not only are we navigating around a hostile China, but we need to do that without all the guarantees and protections that we have had in the past, said David Mulroney, who served as Canadas ambassador to China from 2009 to 2012. Richard Gere plays Max the mogul, whose powers include anointing prime ministers as well as banishing inconvenient wives; Helen McCrory plays Kathryn, the mother of their son Caden. Caden was 10 when Max divorced Kathryn and forced her to give him full custody, subsequently raising him in his own image. That shot sets the scene for MotherFatherSon, a new BBC eight-part drama by Tom Rob Smith about a media tycoon, his estranged wife and the son he has brought up to inherit his company. This is also very much like real life. There is a painful memory jog: isnt this what happened with Milly Dowler, the murdered schoolgirl whose phone was intercepted by tabloid hackers after her disappearance? That was in 2002. Nine years later, the phone hacking scandal forced the closure of the 168-year-old News of the World, then owned by Rupert Murdoch. Opening shot. We can just about make out the raddled face of a middle-aged man under huge headphones, watching a blip on a computer screen. "Where are you? We just want to know you're safe!" says a womans voice choked with tears. The adult Caden, played by Billy Howle, has been shoehorned into the editors chair at The National, the flagship quality paper in Max's otherwise low-rent media empire. He isn't happy, as signalled by his ingestion of alcohol, cocaine and peculiar sex courtesy of expensive escorts. Then Caden has a massive stroke. Still only in his early 30s, he has to learn to walk and to speak again. Doctors warn he may be changed; he may also be unnervingly disinhibited. Once he can talk again, who knows what secrets he may reveal? "Or not reveal," cautions Howle. "That was an interesting one." Of course, the real tease of MotherFatherSon is the clear correspondence, despite their completely different life stories, between its main characters and the Murdoch clan. "We were all acutely aware of that," says Howle. "But it's difficult, because Tom has to be very diplomatic, particularly if he's nodding to anything real. So its impossible to ask him 'is this something that exists in the real world?' And in a way you dont want to, because it doesn't help. If anything, it gets in the way because, whatever the circumstances of the story, I have to imagine them in the same way that I would in a fantasy film: that all this is happening for the first time." Billy Howle in MotherFatherSon Credit:BBC First Anyone watching would have at least a twinge of recognition, however; Howle even looks like the younger Lachlan Murdoch. "Well, I don't know whether to take that as a compliment," he says. "Whether that is done intentionally or not, I can't say. All I know is that I went for an audition. I wasn't channelling or emulating anyone." He did do his research, however. "I read old articles about the phone-hacking scandal, about the family of he-who-shall-not-be-named." Partly this was because he wanted to understand the lives of the very rich. Howle's parents are teachers. "It is in a way so outside the reach of my experience, in life, that I needed to do it in order to fill in gaps, particularly what it is like to have so much sway and influence over the media and using it as a weapon in the world." Mr Shorten dismissed that claim by telling more of his mother's story during a press conference in Nowra on Wednesday morning, where he noted that his mother had gone back to university in her 50s but had struggled to get work as a barrister. "She got about nine briefs in her time. It was actually a bit dispiriting," he said. "She had wanted to do law when she was 17. She didn't get that chance. She raised kids. At 50, she backed herself. At 53, going to the bar, she got a barrister that's the technical term, the apprenticeship. She did her best. She went down and did some Magistrates Court work. "But she discovered in her mid-50s that sometimes, you're just too old, and you shouldn't be too old, but she discovered the discrimination against older women. And so, while she kept her name on the bar roll for a number of years, she came back and she did other things. Do you know that my mum wrote the book on education and law in Australia? Brilliant. She's brilliant. "And that's what drives me." Loading Mr Shorten dismissed the "pretty bloody lazy editorial" in The Daily Telegraph and slammed the way the newspaper played "gotcha shit" with his mother's life story. Earlier, in a post on Facebook, Mr Shorten had described the newspaper report as "a new low" and said the newspaper seemed to think it knew his mother's story better than he did. Mr Shorten has clashed with The Daily Telegraph and its owner, News Corp, several times in the past and declined to meet the company's executive chairman, Rupert Murdoch, ahead of the election. In the first weeks of the election campaign, Mr Shorten blasted the "climate change deniers" at News Corp who criticised action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and backed their "ally" in Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Labor finance spokesman Jim Chalmers said on Wednesday morning that the News Corp newspapers were trying to help the government. "This is what they do they go to any length to prop up the Liberals, to prop up a failing government which has spent six years rotating through three Prime Ministers, which has doubled debt in this country, which has presided over slowing growth and stagnant wages," Mr Chalmers told ABC TV. In his Facebook post, Mr Shorten told the story of his mother's decision to become a lawyer decades after she had wanted to do so. "First in her family to go to university. They weren't rich. She wanted to do law but had to take a teacher's scholarship to look after her younger siblings," he wrote. Loading "She loved being a teacher and she was very good at it. She later became a teacher of teachers. She worked at Monash University for over three decades, but she always wanted to be in the law. "Much later in life, in her 50s, she did just that. When my twin brother and I went to university, she was enrolled at the same faculty. When I was in my first year of law school, she was in her final year. She was her brilliant self and won the Supreme Court prize. "She finally realised her dream and qualified as a barrister in her late 50s. "Mum was never bitter. She had a remarkable life and she felt very fortunate. But because of her financial circumstances, she didn't get all of the opportunities she deserved. "I can't change what happened to my Mum. But I can change things for other people. And that's why I'm in politics. That's why I'm asking to be your prime minister." Prime Minister Scott Morrison extended his "best wishes" to Mr Shorten on Wednesday morning when asked about the newspaper story, adding that he could understand the hurt it caused. "This election is not about our families. It's not about Bill's mum. It's not about my mum," Mr Morrison said. "Sadly, his mum's passed away. I'm thankful my mum's still with us. It's not about our mums or our dads or our kids or our wives, as great as they are, it's about the choice between Bill Shorten and myself as Prime Minister. "And I know that Bill and I would very much want it to keep focused on that choice, not on our families." Loading Herald Sun columnist Andrew Bolt took issue with The Daily Telegraph's coverage and warned against interpreting one newspaper's story as the view of the "Murdoch media" in general. "Shorten spoke truly when he said his mother sacrificed her dream to be a lawyer, taking up teaching to help her siblings. There is no invention here," Mr Bolt wrote. "That she decades later, after a great career teaching, finally realised her dream has been well-reported and does not negate at all her admirable sacrifice. Lindsay's recent history offers some explanation for the disillusionment. After Kelly, Labor's David Bradbury held the seat through the Rudd/Gillard years. The tenuousness of that hold was illustrated by Labor's decision to have Bradbury campaign on a navy vessel prior to the 2010 election as if the slim tax lawyer might single-handedly deter asylum seekers from Sydney's west. Bradbury lost in 2013 to Fiona Scott. But Scott's one term was damaged, as she subsequently admitted, by Tony Abbott's description of her as a candidate with "sex appeal". The surprise victor in 2016, Labor's Emma Husar, soon grabbed national headlines. She powerfully told Parliament her personal story of family violence. Her father would get drunk and hit her mother, she said. And she too, subsequently, had been affected by family violence. Tragically for Husar, her notoriety only increased. In August the news website Buzzfeed published a salacious account of her supposed sexual and management indiscretions An internal Labor inquiry cleared her of the most substantial of the allegations. But not before Husar said she would stand down as Labor's candidate in 2019, and launched defamation proceedings against Buzzfeed. Who cares about hospitals and local roads with so much scandal and chicanery about? As it turns out, Lindsay does. As if to emphasise the point, the Liberal candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, is running a determinedly grounded campaign. Her flyers and posters tout promises to improve local roads and congestion. And this is what she'll talk about if given half a chance. The Liberal candidate for Lindsay, Melissa McIntosh, on High Street in Penrith. Credit:Wolter Peeters "I did that commute for over 10 years," says McIntosh of the long and crowded trip from Penrith and surrounds to jobs in the inner city. "And I see it on the train stations every morning, and people are telling me they don't want to be doing that commute. Fifteen hours plus a week." Loading McIntosh' story personal and professional is a testament to the opportunities that do exist in the area. After growing up in Blaxland East, just near Penrith, she attended Western Sydney University before landing a media job with her local member Kelly. Prior to a stint in the prime minister's office, McIntosh met a British canoe slalom athlete, Stuart McIntosh, while he was training for the Sydney Olympics at Penrith's Whitewater stadium. She married him. When the couple's first child came, they returned to the northern hemisphere for Stuart's canoe slalom career. "We travelled in a campervan throughout Europe. Before our first child was one, we went to 20 countries," says McIntosh, now a mother of three. "That gave me good insight into how the world operates," she says. McIntosh has had a varied career since returning. She has worked at Travelex, the University of Sydney's United States Studies Centre, for a brief period as chief of staff to assistant treasurer and Liberal powerbroker Alex Hawke, and for the past two and a half years at community housing provider Wentworth Community Housing. She sees no contradiction between Wentworth's work on homelessness and unaffordable rental housing and the election's housing debate. Labor's negative gearing policies, she says, will not make housing more affordable but will reduce the stock of available rental properties. The opposite is argued by McIntosh's opponent, Labor's Diane Beamer. Beamer describes Labor's proposal to curb tax breaks on newly-purchased rental properties as "fantastic". "I would like my son to be able to afford a home," says Beamer, a former state member for Mulgoa who argues the election needs to be about more than neighbourhood roads. Labor candidate for Lindsay, Diane Beamer, speaks to voters in Penrith. Credit:Nick Moir "At a federal level I think it's a bit duplicitous to say that we're in here to look at local roads," says Beamer. "There are bigger issues that we have to look at. And I don't know ... maybe [have] a stint on council to look at local roads," says Beamer, who, along with 15 years in state parliament, was the mayor of Penrith in the early 90s. Beamer's emergence as a candidate is a surprise probably to her as well. Approached by local branches after Husar said she would not run, Beamer says she canvassed old Labor colleagues Michael Lee, Tanya Gadiel, Tony Stewart and Geoff Corrigan before deciding to return to politics. A mother and step-mum to six, Beamer took one of her kids along to Sussex Street to talk to NSW Labor secretary Kaila Murnain about running. "I wanted to know that I did have their support. Which I obviously did. And in the end I also spoke to Bill Shorten, who said he'd be very happy to have me on his team," she says. For Beamer, improving roads is important. But she also nominates failures and frustrations with the NDIS and a loss of penalty rates as crucial local concerns. "Rents are going up. Wages are not moving," she says. And then there is the government's failure to implement an energy policy one of Beamer's main sources of frustration while she was out of politics. "I want an election of a Shorten government. And if you're going to yell at the television, you might as well say 'what can I do about it?'" One feature of the area's politics is its changeability. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, for instance, Beamer attracted more than 67 per cent of the two-party vote in Mulgoa; the same period in which Kelly was winning 55 per cent of the vote for the Liberals in the intersecting seat of Lindsay. Asked to explain the volatility, McIntosh argues that the area is changing: "With all the investment that's coming into western Sydney, there are so many opportunities here now. It's an inspirational area." Both McIntosh and Beamer stress the importance of making the most of a future Badgerys Creek airport. For her part, Husar nominates the divisions within the electorate's demographics. There are wealthier suburbs around Mulgoa, as well as areas extremely sensitive to any change in welfare measures. Loading And then there are large numbers of families on working or lower-middle class incomes, but who are not employed within large-scale industry. The incomes might skew Labor, but the industrial organisation does not. "We've got very few factories," says Husar. "A little bit of industry in St Marys and Castlereagh." "A lot of the businesses are genuinely small business, tradies," says Husar. "We've got a huge number of tradies that live out here, who travel up and down the M4 every day for work." It's an extremely hard-working electorate, says Husar. It has to be, for all that time commuting. And what does Husar think? Would she have held the seat for Labor, if the opportunity had been there? George Habibeh has been designing couture for more than a decade. Which is pretty impressive for a 21-year-old. "I was a bit of a weird kid," he says. "I've always loved working with fabrics ... I remember cutting up curtains and my mum's old dresses." TAFE graduate George Habibeh, 21, will be the first designer to show couture at the MBFWA student showcase. Credit:Nic Walker After making creations by hand, Habibeh asked for a sewing machine for his 11th birthday and taught himself how to use it by watching YouTube tutorials. With the pieces he designed for his mum ("she's my muse") attracting attention among family and friends, at 13 Habibeh applied for an ABN and started to build a business through word of one particular mouth. The Claremont serial killer trial - expected to take nine months - could cost up to $100 million, according to a prominent Perth lawyer. The longest murder trial in West Australian history will take place in the same court room where barrister Lloyd Rayney was trialled and cleared of his wife's murder in 2012. That trial, according to Nine News Perth, ran for three months and cost around $20 million. District Court courtroom number 72 is the largest court in the state, and will host the Supreme Court trial of accused man, Bradley Robert Edwards. Washington: US President Donald Trump, who won the presidency in part on his image as a successful business mogul, lost $US1.7 billion ($2.4 billion) over 10 years on failed business deals, according to tax records obtained by The New York Times. The losses, in the 1980s and 1990s, were greater than those reported by nearly any other American taxpayer during that period, according to Internal Revenue Service data The Times said it had reviewed. Billion-dollar loser: US President Donald Trump. Credit:AP In 1990 and 1991, according to The Times report, Trump's losses of $US250 million a year were more than double those of the nearest taxpayer the IRS collected information on. Democrats in Congress have been battling for the release of the President's more recent returns, a clash that may likely end in court. Trump sold himself to voters as a master deal maker, who could bring the same success to the country as he did to his businesses. Developers want to turn the former Vishay Vitramon Co. property into a retail hub for Monroe. Resident Robert Dunbar is looking to transform the vacant lot along Main Street and Victoria Drive into a 150,000-square-foot shopping center that he said he hopes will revamp the towns retail scene. When you come into Monroe, its not very enticing, he said, adding that the town has often been overlooked by developers in favor of Bridgeport and Trumbull. I think this can help ignite new or redevelopment of Monroe, Dunbar said. The project still has to be formally proposed and approved by the planning and zoning committee before it can move forward, but Dunbar said he received favorable comments when he presented his concept to town officials. He said he plans to submit a full plan for the project in the summer or early fall. Initial concepts for the project call for a six-building layout on 15 acres. Dunbar said he wants to provide a walkable center with a mix of restaurants and stores. He envisions leasing space out to national brands, stepping away from his hometowns traditional mom-and-pop shop scene. The one thing that I didnt want to design or have developed is your typical shopping center which has this big sea of asphalt, Dunbar said. The plot of land had been home to Vitramon since the 1960s. The company sold the parcel for about $3.5 million and razed the 84,000-square-foot plant in 2013. The parcel and a neighboring lot were originally targeted by developers for a new Walmart and a shopping center along the corridor. The retail giant wanted to create almost four acres of shopping, but the plan was scrapped toward the end of 2017. Both lots have stayed vacant and zoned for a retail project since then, which Dunbar saw as an opportunity. Its now just reworking it to fit our model, Dunbar said. A lot of the leg work already had been done. If approved, the project would be located at one of the gateways into the town. I think it will be a phenomenal addition to our town, said Monroe first selectman Ken Kellogg. Im extremely happy and pleased that someone who not only wants to develop this (site) but (also that its) someone who lives in our town and cares about the community. Jordan.grice@hearstmediact.com Photo by Fasano Stretched out on the coast of northeast Bahia, Salvador is so much more than just any other Brazilian city. In fact, the African influences give it a completely different vibe than the metropolitan Sao Paulo or the beachy Rio de Janeiro. And with LATAM offering a new direct flight from Miami, this city known for its bright colored colonial buildings and its vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture is more accessible than ever. Founded by Portuguese settles in the 16th century, Salvador was the first capital of Brazil and is to this day one of the oldest colonial cities in South America. A city full of spirit and color, Salvador shines through its dancing, music, and delicious food. The city is split into two levels, easily accessible by the Elevador Lacerda, a 70-meter (230-feet) elevator built in 1873 that continues to be used today. The upper part hosts the old town of Pelourinho, a neighborhood filled with decorated churches, pastel colors and beautiful narrow roads. The lower part is the modern one, a world of high rises and residential dwellings that line up the coast along with beautiful beaches and restaurants serving a mix of European and Bahian food. Photo by Lavinia Lumezanu Walking down the street in the old town of Pelourinho, visitors are welcomed by Baianas wearing traditional costumes with hoop skirts and elaborate head wraps, street musicians performing on drums at all hours of the day, and people taking advantage of the music for a little dance in the middle of the town square. The colors of the building and the cobblestone on the street reminisce of an old Portuguese town with African influences. Photo by Fasano Just a few minutes walk from Pelourinho lies Fasano, a luxury hotel perched on the shore of the Bay of Bahia. Looking to preserve the look and feel of the old town, while at the same time keeping in place all the features of the modern world, Fasano is hosted in a renovated historic building from the 1930s that was the first headquarter of the newspaper A Tarde for 45 years. Looking to bring luxury into the hospitality world of Bahia, Fasano looked and building and integrating with the local culture from the location in the Castro Alves Square, in the historical center of Salvador, with a privileged view of the Bay of All Saints to making sure that all the decorations and the renovation is in line with not only preserving the building as a cultural and artistic heritage site of Bahia, but also making sure that it celebrates the vibrancy of the city. Photo by Fasano Housed in this heritage building, the hotel features 52 rooms out of which 18 are suites and its 100% smoke free. Some rooms still have the original wooden walls, which blend in perfectly with the marble bathrooms, the light blue rugs (a color very prevalent in Bahia), the modern lighting fixtures, and the wonderful views of the bay or the cobblestone streets. Photo by Fasano The Fasano Restaurant located on the ground floor of the hotel, brings a menu inspired by Italian cuisine as well as the local Bahian flavors. The Fasano Restaurant of our Salvador hotel will offer some flagship Italian cuisine: the Costoletta Alla Milanese, the Filetto di Manzoalla Rossini, the Veal Ossobuco with White Wine and Herbs and the Spaghetti Alla Carbonara. The cuisine will have the Fasano DNA, dedicated to the Italian classics, and there will also be local Bahian dishes signed by Tereza Paim, says Rogerio Fasano. The space itself has preserved the aesthetic of the original building, while at the same time lining the walls with banana tree straw. Photo by Fasano The bar area features old sugar-making pieces have been transformed into prominent chandeliers, with the bar top made with nickel-plated brass. Another aspect of the original building that has been kept intact is a spiral staircase that leads to the Climatized Cellar. Photo by Fasano A second bar area has been placed on the rooftop next to the pool lined with Azul Bahia granite, surrounded by a wooden deck and lounge chairs for the guests to are looking for a relaxing swimming and sunbathing experience. Highly prized for is blue color, the Azul Bahia granite is a top choice among the discerning designers and consumers. Sourced locally in Brahia, this exclusive material is characterized by its navy blue color with white clustering and occasional green veining, making it yet another element of the local culture that artfully blends with the luxury of Fasano. Photo by Fasano The Spa is an experience in itself for the body and mind featuring the classic treatments that have become a staple of all Fasano hotels such as the Ayurveda body treatments, facials, reflexology massages, shiatsu, scrubs and wraps, as well as a massage experience that has been inspired by the Bahian traditions and local herbs. The massage starts with a soothing foot bath with rock salt, local herbs and lavender, meant to soothe you, while at the same time pulling out any tension from the body. Rock salt is known in the African culture as a protector against evil. It keeps your energy safe and wards off any negative energy coming your way. Since massages are all about self care and positive energy, its no wonder that the Spa at Fasano uses rock salt as a primary cleansing ritual. The massage then continues with a full body massage which includes deep tissue and reflexology using coconut oil, known for its benefits in hydrating and soothing dry skin as well as aiding in relaxing muscles. Photo by Fasano Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation at the beach or by the pool, or you want to delve deep into the Afro-Brazilian culture, music, and dance, Salvador Bahia is the perfect place for family or solo trips and is guaranteed to have you coming back over and over to discover even more facets of the city. By Kyle Lovern In the Bible, the apostle Paul reminded those who would listen of[Read More] OTTAWA - The Bank of Canada says deputy governor Lynn Patterson will retire on July 19. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The Bank of Canada is shown in Ottawa on Wednesday, April 24, 2019. The Bank of Canada says deputy governor Lynn Patterson will retire on July 19. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick OTTAWA - The Bank of Canada says deputy governor Lynn Patterson will retire on July 19. Patterson joined the Bank of Canada in 2013 as special adviser to the governor and senior representative at the bank's Toronto regional office. She was appointed a deputy governor in May 2014 and was responsible for overseeing the central bank's analysis and activities in promoting a stable and efficient financial system. Before working at the Bank of Canada, Patterson had an extensive career in capital markets, including as president and country head for Bank of America Merrill Lynch Canada. Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz said Patterson has had a tremendous influence during her tenure at the central bank. He noted that she played a key role in advancing important capital market initiatives including establishing the Canadian Fixed Income Forum. BEIJING - China's exports fell unexpectedly in April, adding to pressure on Beijing ahead of negotiations on ending a tariff war with Washington over Chinese technology ambitions. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A private delivery company's courier sorts boxes of goods for his customers at the Central Business District in Beijing, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Washington and Beijing have raised tariffs on billions of dollars of each other's exports, disrupting trade in goods from soybeans to medical equipment. Estimates of lost potential sales so far range as high as $25 billion.(AP Photo/Andy Wong) BEIJING - China's exports fell unexpectedly in April, adding to pressure on Beijing ahead of negotiations on ending a tariff war with Washington over Chinese technology ambitions. Wednesday's announcement of trade data came after President Donald Trump sent global financial markets plunging with a surprise threat of more penalties on Chinese imports. April exports sank 2.7% from a year ago to $193.5 billion, a reverse from March's 14.2% growth, customs data showed. That was well below private sector forecasts of growth in low single digits. Imports rose 4% to $179.6 billion, rebounding from the previous month's 7.6% decline. That added to signs government efforts to reverse an economic downturn might be gaining traction. Imports of American goods fell 26% from a year earlier to $10.3 billion. Exports to the United States, China's biggest foreign market, were down 13% at $31.4 billion. FILE - In this April 4, 2019, file photo, President Donald Trump meets China's Vice Premier Liu He in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File) Talks in Washington are due to go ahead Thursday despite earlier fears Beijing might pull out due to Trump's threat. China said Tuesday its economy czar will participate as scheduled. Weak trade figures might "add more pressure to leaders from both sides to get a deal done," Macquarie Bank said in a report. It said the decision to send Vice Premier Liu He to Washington suggests "China doesn't want the talks to break." Exports to the U.S. market are down 9.7% for the first four months of the year following Trump's tariff hikes in response to complaints Beijing steals or pressures companies to hand over technology. In the same four-month period, imports of American goods plunged 30.4% following Chinese retaliatory duties and orders to buyers to find other suppliers. Washington is pressing Beijing to roll back plans for government-led creation of Chinese global competitors in robotics, electric cars and other technologies. The United States also wants other changes including cuts in subsidies to Chinese industry. Chinese leaders have expressed confidence their economy can survive the tariff fight. But while American exporters have been hit hardest, Chinese industries including electronics that Beijing sees its economic future also have suffered double-digit declines in U.S. sales. Both governments have said negotiations are making progress, but Trump expressed frustration Sunday at what he called their slow pace. U.S. officials accused Beijing of trying to renege on commitments made in earlier talks. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Asked about news reports that China backtracked on commitments about intellectual property and other sensitive areas, a foreign ministry spokesman said disagreements were a normal part of negotiations. "We do not sidestep contradictions and are sincere in continuing consultations," said Geng Shuang. Trump has approved 25% per cent tariffs on $50 billion of Chinese goods and 10% on $200 billion. Beijing responded with penalty duties on $110 billion of American imports. It also has retaliated by slowing customs clearance for U.S. companies in China and delaying issuing licenses in insurance and other industries. On Sunday, Trump said on Twitter he would raise the 10% charge to 25% per cent, effective Friday. He said he was considering imposing penalties on the rest of Chinese goods shipped to the United States. Economists say even if a settlement is reached, China's exports this year will be lacklustre due to weak global demand, putting pressure on manufacturers that support millions of jobs. Jahdea Paterson, 18, is shown in a handout photo from the York Regional Police Twitter page. Police say two teens have been charged with murder in a fatal shooting at a prom after-party north of Toronto last week, while a third faces a related charge. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Twitter-York Regional Police-@YRP MANDATORY CREDIT WASHINGTON - TV pitches for prescription drugs will soon include the price, giving consumers more information upfront as they make medication choices at a time when new drugs can carry anxiety-inducing prices. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this March 13, 2019, file phtooHealth and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar testifies before a House Appropriations subcommittee on Capitol Hill in Washington. Azar says drugmakers will soon have to reveal prices of their prescription medicines in those ever-present TV ads. The Trump administration will issue final regulations on May 8 requiring drug companies to disclose list prices of medications costing more than $35 for a monthAos supply. Azar tells The Associated Press if drugmakers are scared to put prices in ads that means they should lower those prices. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File) WASHINGTON - TV pitches for prescription drugs will soon include the price, giving consumers more information upfront as they make medication choices at a time when new drugs can carry anxiety-inducing prices. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said Wednesday the Trump administration has finalized regulations requiring drug companies to disclose list prices of medications costing more than $35 for a month's supply. "What I say to the companies is if you think the cost of your drug will scare people from buying your drugs, then lower your prices," Azar said. "Transparency for American patients is here." In a tweet, President Donald Trump celebrated the announcement, saying: "Historic transparency for American patients is here. If drug companies are ashamed of those prices_lower them!" Drug companies responded that adding prices to their commercials could unintentionally harm patients. "We are concerned that the administration's rule requiring list prices in direct-to-consumer television advertising could be confusing for patients and may discourage them from seeking needed medical care," said the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, the main trade group. But one major firm Johnson & Johnson, based in New Brunswick, New Jersey has already started disclosing the cost of its blood thinner Xarelto in TV advertising. And polls indicate many patients are not taking their medications as prescribed because of cost. Drug pricing details are expected to appear in text toward the end of commercials, when potential side effects are disclosed. TV viewers should notice the change later this year, perhaps as early as the summer. The government is hoping that patients armed with prices will start discussing affordability with their doctors, and gradually that will put pressure on drugmakers to keep costs of brand-name drugs in check. Pricing disclosure was part of a multilevel blueprint President Donald Trump announced last year to try to lower prescription drug costs . Democrats say it still won't force drugmakers to lower what they charge, and they want Medicare to negotiate on behalf of consumers. Leigh Purvis, a pharma expert with AARP's research division, said disclosure will help dispel a "cloak of darkness" around prices and encourage more informed discussions between patients and their doctors. But she cautioned against expecting too much. "The overall idea of reducing drug prices is something for which there is no silver bullet," said Purvis. "This is just one step, one tool in what will have to be a very big arsenal." Other ideas from the Trump administration include regulations affecting Medicare and legislative proposals in Congress. With the cost of medicines a top concern for voters, Trump and lawmakers of both major political parties want accomplishments they can point to before the 2020 elections. Drugmakers also complained that the price reveal will infringe on their First Amendment free speech rights by forcing them to disclose prices. It's unclear if that will prompt a court challenge, but Azar points out that the government has for decades required carmakers to post their sticker prices on vehicles. "Prices of automobiles are vastly less important to your health and affordability than drugs," he said. According to the latest government figures, the 10 most commonly advertised drugs have prices ranging from $488 to $16,938 per month or for a usual course of therapy. The disclosure requirement will not apply to print or radio ads for the foreseeable future. It encompasses all brand name drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid, which is nearly all. In a twist, enforcement of the rule will rely on drug companies suing each other over violations under a longstanding federal law that governs unfair trade practices. "There are very large legal practices built on pharma companies suing each other," Azar said, calling it a "quite effective mechanism." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Most people count on lower-cost generic drugs to manage their health problems, but the advent of highly effective and extremely expensive medications for once-fatal or intractable diseases has put consumers on edge. Some genetic and cellular-based treatments can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, straining on the budgets of insurers and government programs. A recent poll from the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation found that 1 in 3 Americans said they haven't taken medications as prescribed because of costs. People who take four or more medications, those who spend $100 a month or more on meds, patients in fair to poor health and middle-aged adults are more likely to report affordability problems. Although most patients do not pay the full list prices that will be included in ads, experts say those are still important. Patient copays are often based on list prices. And many people who have high-deductible insurance plans pay list prices because their insurance doesn't start covering until patients spend several thousand dollars of their own money. In other economically advanced countries, governments negotiate drug prices to keep medications more affordable for patients. But the U.S. has held back from government-set prices. Azar, who is leading Trump's efforts on prescription drugs, is a former drug company executive. He held senior posts with Indianapolis-based insulin maker Eli Lilly and Co. after an earlier stint in government service during the George W. Bush administration. The regulations will take effect 60 days after they're published in the Federal Register. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. Google is jumping on the latest tech trend: privacy. At its annual conference for software developers, the search and advertising giant showed off several new products and features that it said were created to help maintain customers control over their own data. Instead of the bulk of that data being shared with Google and stored in cloud computing centres, in the companys vision it would instead live on devices like mobile phones and tablet computers. That would mark a big shift for Google, which relies on the reams of data to help train its artificial intelligence software to better function without human interference. And it could have implications for Googles business model, which depends on advertising sales for nearly 90 cents out of every dollar it makes. Marketers have made Google the largest ad-seller in the world in large part because of the comprehensive picture it can paint of users through the data it collects. One executive after another at Googles I/O conference in its hometown of Mountain View, Calif., emphasized new privacy settings in products like search, maps, thermostats and updated mobile phone software. "We strongly believe that privacy and security are for everyone, not just a few," Google CEO Sundar Pichai said. Said product manager Stephanie Cuthbertson, who introduced a new version of the Android mobile operating system: "You should always be in control of what you share and who you share it with." For their part, consumers are beginning to push back after tech firms have sucked up their data online for years, nearly unchecked. Just about anything people do online helps companies refine their marketing pitch: if they know a customer is planning to get married, they can show them cake or honeymoon travel package ads. And selling advertising is why products like Googles Chrome internet browser and other apps are free to download and use. The changes werent enough to satisfy everyone. "Its just playing around the edges of the bigger problem for consumers," said Jeffrey Chester, executive director of the Center for Digital Democracy. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "Google would have to fundamentally change how data is collected and used (for complete privacy)." "Advertising is a great business and they are not likely to want to give that up any time soon," he said. Apple and Microsoft have taken pains to emphasize customer privacy in recent product announcements, while Facebook last month promised its users more private communication, part of a broader push. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg in a blog post also said the firm would focus on further encryption, which scrambles data so that outsiders, even Facebook itself, cannot easily read it. Among the new Google features is the so-called "incognito" option for searching on streaming service YouTube and Googles map software. That will prevent Google or others from linking an individual to their online history. Google also said a new setting will automatically erase search and location history linked to users smartphones after three or 18 months, if users choose it. Google also committed to improved privacy controls of its Nest connected home devices, including the ability of users to delete their audio files. Some users have reported having hackers eavesdropping through their Nest devices. Washington Post Health food and hemp industry groups are calling on Ottawa to change the regulations for CBD to treat the cannabinoid as a natural health product rather than a drug. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Try our Dish The latest on food and drink in Winnipeg and beyond from arts writers Ben Sigurdson and Eva Wasney. Dish arrives in your inbox every other Friday. See sample. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Health food and hemp industry groups are calling on Ottawa to change the regulations for CBD to treat the cannabinoid as a natural health product rather than a drug. The Canadian Health Food Association and the Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance say CBD, a non-intoxicating compound which can be derived from cannabis and hemp, should be removed from the prescription drug list. A syringe loaded with a dose of CBD oil is shown in a research laboratory at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo., on November 6, 2017. The Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance and the Canadian Health Food Association are calling for changes to the regulatory environment for CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoids. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, David Zalubowski The groups also asked in a joint paper for a regulatory pathway to allow for CBD derived from industrial hemp to be included in natural health products and supplemented foods, with the appropriate therapeutic and wellness claims. Since Canada legalized pot for recreational use in October, CBD is regulated similarly to cannabis products and must be purchased through a legal recreational retailer or, for medical patients, through a licensed producer or seller. Natural health products in Canada, however, must be safe to be used as an over-the-counter product but do not require a prescription to be sold. The groups argue that CBD, or cannabidiol, does not produce a high and there is a growing body of evidence of its potential therapeutic uses. WASHINGTON - As he cranks up the pressure on China in pursuit of a new trade accord, President Donald Trump is putting his deal-making persona on the line and injecting new risk into his bid for another four years in the White House. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this April 4, 2019, file photo, President Donald Trump meets China's Vice Premier Liu He in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File) WASHINGTON - As he cranks up the pressure on China in pursuit of a new trade accord, President Donald Trump is putting his deal-making persona on the line and injecting new risk into his bid for another four years in the White House. Trump has raised the already high stakes of this week's talks between U.S. and Chinese negotiators as he seeks to seal an agreement he can brandish on the campaign trail. The push to bring the talks with China to a conclusion comes as his administration gears up for a difficult fight in Congress over its new North American trade deal. Progress or failure on the twin agenda items stands to be a key selling point for his re-election or a sobering verdict on his unpredictable stylings. Already, the risks are mounting. Trade fears sent U.S. markets sharply downward Tuesday amid rising concerns about the China talks resuming Thursday. On Monday, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said the administration was prepared to raise import taxes on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods early Friday. In a tweet Wednesday, Trump made the unsupported claim that China is attempting to renegotiate elements of the deal in the "sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come." "Guess what, that's not going to happen!" Trump tweeted, adding that "I am very happy" with the tariffs already in place against China. Former Vice-President Biden is among more than 20 Democrats seeking the presidential nomination to run against Republican Trump in 2020. The president made protecting American manufacturers and farmers central planks of his 2016 candidacy, and his pledge to reverse the tide of globalization helped him win over voters in Democratic-leaning states like Michigan and Wisconsin. Now those groups Trump vowed to help are sounding the alarm about the impact of Trump's protectionist measures on imports from China and other trading partners. Jeff Schulmeister, 52, a resident of the Detroit suburb of Macomb Township, is photographed Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Auburn Hills, Mich. Schulmeister is both a Republican and Trump supporter. As far as Trump's hard line on trade, Schulmeister says, "I'm all for it." The systems analyst says he has many reasons for backing the administration's actions, citing "China's intellectual property theft" among them. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio) Despite Trump's rhetoric to the contrary, tariffs are paid by U.S. importers of foreign goods. Manufacturers dependent on foreign material, retailers and other importers have been charged more than $15 billion in the last year, according to federal data, though the impact directly felt by consumers has been relatively minimal. Dave Salmonsen, a senior director at the American Farm Bureau Federation, said the group is hopeful that the president's threat of increased tariffs on Friday "is just part of the negotiating process." He said agriculture exports to China fell by more than half last year from $21 billion in 2017. "They've retaliated on almost everything we send," he said. Throw in retaliatory tariffs from Canada, Mexico and other nations, and the trade war contributed to a projected 16 per cent decrease in farm income last year, according to a recent Agriculture Department study. The Trump administration ended up providing up to $12 billion in aid to farmers affected by the trade skirmishes. Some Republican senators voiced concerns about the state of trade negotiations during a private lunch Tuesday with Vice-President Mike Pence, who encouraged senators to stick with Trump as he pushes China for a better deal. "We're not in a good way at all," said Sen. Pat Roberts of Kansas, chairman of the Agriculture Committee. "There's a lot of feeling in ag country that we're being used as pawns in this whole business," Roberts said, but added: "We will benefit tremendously if we get a good deal, so we're hanging in there with the president." Despite the political fallout back home, senators seemed intent on not breaking ranks with the White House at this crucial moment in the trade talks. "Even though there's some real issues in Wisconsin, there's a great deal of support for what he's trying to accomplish," said Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis. "I don't think anybody wants to undermine his negotiating position right now, and we're all keeping our fingers crossed." Current and former Trump administration officials believe the U.S. still has the most leverage in the talks, saying China needs access to U.S. markets more than the reverse. And even if the talks don't succeed for Trump, their hope is that voters are more likely to blame any pain on China, and not on the president. Former Trump strategist Stephen Bannon wrote in The Washington Post that the president's best political option is "not to surrender, but rather to double down on the tariffs they have been highly effective in pressuring the Chinese without harming the U.S. economy." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "Certain Trump advisers inside and outside the White House are playing on the president's well-earned pride in a rising stock market and a fear he might lose the Farm Belt to try to box him into a weak deal. But it is a decidedly false narrative that any failure to reach a deal will lead to a market meltdown and economic implosion," Bannon wrote. And there are indications that at least some Trump supporters are all for the president's confrontation. "Right now, because we have a strong economy and China has some issues with its aging population and a slowing economy, we're in a position of strength to negotiate a better deal," said Jeff Schulmeister, 52, a resident of the Detroit suburb of Macomb Township. "I think what he's doing is the right thing to do, and I think it's going to benefit the country." Trump will travel to Japan in late May after raising hopes for a new trade deal with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Meanwhile, his trade team is working to address concerns from Democratic lawmakers about a new trade agreement with Canada and Mexico. Democrats have said they want to make changes to the agreement before voting on whether to approve it. They want to take on protections for pharmaceutical companies, enhance labour protections and address concerns over enforcement. ___ Associated Press writers Jeff Karoub in Detroit and Lisa Mascaro in Washington contributed to this report. DETROIT - General Motors is negotiating the sale of its shuttered factory in Lordstown, Ohio, to a company that builds electric trucks. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this March 6, 2019, file photo, a "Save Me" sign rests against the General Motors Lordstown Complex sign in Lordstown, Ohio. General Motors plans to sell its shuttered factory in Lordstown, to a company that builds electric trucks. President Donald Trump announced the deal Wednesday morning, May 8, 2019, on Twitter. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak, File) DETROIT - General Motors is negotiating the sale of its shuttered factory in Lordstown, Ohio, to a company that builds electric trucks. The company confirmed Wednesday that it's in talks with Cincinnati-based Workhorse Group to sell the huge facility, and also announced plans to invest $700 million in three Ohio factories to create 450 additional jobs. The potential sale, first announced on Twitter by President Donald Trump, could preserve some jobs at the sprawling plant 60 miles east of Cleveland. But it also dashes any hope that GM would reopen the factory where until March, it had built cars for more than five decades. Workhorse Group, led by Workhorse founder Steve Burns, would acquire the facility and would hold a minority stake in a new venture, a GM statement said. But it was unclear who would own the rest. "This potential agreement creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community," said CEO Duane Hughes. The company would build a commercial electric pickup truck if it buys the facility, Burns said in the statement. Should the project go forward, initial job numbers would be in the hundreds, said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, moments after fielding a call from GM CEO Mary Barra. That number could rise to 3,000 over several years if Workhorse were to win a contract with the U.S. Postal Service, DeWine said. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine speaks on the cellphone with GM CEO Mary Barra, Wednesday, May 8, 2019, at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus, about the company's plans to sell its shuttered factory in Lordstown, Ohio, to a company that builds electric trucks. DeWine, a Republican, said he wanted to hear more details about the plan, including the reaction of the UAW, but said the potential project was better than the plant sitting idle. (AP Photo/Andrew Welsh-Huggins) "We have people who are I would say knowledgeable about the negotiations who have told us that. That would be one of the goals of the company as they grow their business to get a contract with the post office," DeWine said. DeWine said he welcomed the news but said a lot depends on upcoming UAW negotiations and the union's reaction. "It would appear that with this company that there is potential for growth and maybe significant potential growth, which is what we want," he said. Lordstown Mayor Arno Hill said he's waiting for details, including how many people might be employed. "It's definitely better than having 6 million square foot building sitting empty," he said. But news of the pending sale was greeted gloomily by workers in Lordstown who were hoping that GM would reopen the factory that stopped producing the Chevrolet Cruze compact car in March. Tim O'Hara, vice-president of the United Auto Workers union local at the plant, said workers were hoping the union could negotiate a new product for Lordstown, allowing them to stay in the area and continue careers with GM. Many will be forced to transfer in order to preserve seniority and pension eligibility, O'Hara said. "I guess that means they're done in Lordstown," O'Hara said of GM. "Anybody that wants to continue working for them is going to have to transfer out." Lordstown had about 1,400 hourly workers on one shift at the time the plant stopped production. But hundreds of others had been laid off earlier as GM cut two shifts to deal with slumping demand for the Cruze. Terry Dittes, the UAW's national vice-president, said in a prepared statement that the company should still assign a new product to Lordstown and keep the plant open. The union has sued over the closure of Lordstown and three other U.S. plants, saying the moves violate GM's contract with the union. GM said the 450 jobs would be added at plants in Toledo, the Cleveland suburb of Parma and the Dayton suburb of Moraine. The Moraine plant would get expanded diesel engine production for GM heavy-duty pickups, while a Toledo transmission plant will add workers to build 10-speed truck transmissions. A stamping plant in Parma, near Cleveland, will see expanded production and new laser welding technology, the company said. GM said more than 1,350 blue-collar workers have accepted transfers to other GM factories from four U.S. plants that are slated to close. Trump happily tweeted the news about Lordstown after a conversation with Barra, calling the announcement "great news for Ohio." Lordstown had been pulled into the 2020 presidential campaign as Trump has pressured companies to add jobs in the U.S. Ohio is key to Trump's re-election campaign, and he has attacked GM for plans to close the plant as part of a larger restructuring effort. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Workhorse CEO Hughes said Tuesday the company is making progress in the transition from development to the production. The company is on target, he said, to begin delivering its new electric vans at the end of this year. Workhorse reported that its first quarter sales for this year were at $364,000, down from $560,000 for the quarter in 2018. It also reported $2.8 million in cash and short-term investments. The announcement came just after GM and the Canadian auto workers union reached a deal to save 300 jobs at an Ontario factory that is slated to close by the end of this year. They'll work in a parts-stamping operation that will continue to make components for GM vehicles as the company seeks other business. But the remainder of the 2,600 workers at the plant in Oshawa, near Toronto, are still scheduled to be laid off. ____ Seewer reported from Toledo, Ohio. Andrew Welsh-Huggins contributed from Columbus, Ohio. WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's Iran policy has been rooted in the idea that being tougher on Tehran would yield better results and perhaps even a new nuclear deal to replace the Obama administration pact that he pulled the U.S. out of a year ago Wednesday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this May 8, 2018 file photo President Donald Trump shows a signed Presidential Memorandum after delivering a statement on the Iran nuclear deal from the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is reportedly set to announce Wednesday, May 8, 2019, ways the Islamic Republic will react to continued U.S. pressure after President Donald Trump pulled America from TehranAos nuclear deal with world powers. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump's Iran policy has been rooted in the idea that being tougher on Tehran would yield better results and perhaps even a new nuclear deal to replace the Obama administration pact that he pulled the U.S. out of a year ago Wednesday. That strategy is now being put to the test as tension escalates between Washington and Tehran, even as both sides appear willing to negotiate an end to the standoff. Iran threatened to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for the 2015 nuclear deal. It follows the Trump administration's "maximum pressure" campaign of diplomatic and economic measures that have exacted a punishing toll on the Islamic Republic. The effort has been a success in the view of the president and senior officials of his administration. "Because of our action, the Iranian regime is struggling to fund its campaign of violent terror, as its economy heads into an unprecedented depression, government revenue dries up, and inflation spirals out of control," Trump said Wednesday as he announced yet another round of sanctions, this time targeting the country's metals industry. The test is whether Iran will return to the bargaining table and agree to the new terms set by the Trump administration. The stakes couldn't be higher, as shown by the U.S. decision over the weekend to rush an aircraft carrier group and other military assets to the Middle East to confront an unspecified Iranian threat. Democrats used Iran's announcement as an opportunity to criticize Trump for withdrawing from the deal. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., called it a sign of "blind, meandering, escalatory" foreign policy. "Iran's moves to restart their nuclear program are a direct consequence of the Trump administration withdrawing from the Iran deal," said Murphy, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. FILE - In this May 8, 2018 file photo President Donald Trump shows a signed Presidential Memorandum after delivering a statement on the Iran nuclear deal from the Diplomatic Reception Room of the White House. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is reportedly set to announce Wednesday, May 8, 2019, ways the Islamic Republic will react to continued U.S. pressure after President Donald Trump pulled America from TehranAos nuclear deal with world powers. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) Despite Iran's announced deadline to pull out of the remainder of the nuclear deal, there have been signs that Tehran is willing to talk. Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said during a visit to New York last month that he thinks Trump wants to deal but is trying an antagonistic approach at the direction of senior aides and Middle Eastern allies. "Try the language of respect," he urged him, pretending to address the president directly. "It won't kill you, believe me." Trump himself says he's ready to talk. "We call on the regime to abandon its nuclear ambitions, change its destructive behaviour, respect the rights of its people and return in good faith to the negotiating table," he said in announcing the new sanctions. Brian Hook, U.S. envoy to Iran, told reporters at the State Department that the U.S. laid out 12 demands last year for a new Iran deal and an end to the Trump administration's maximum pressure campaign. They include an end to all uranium enrichment, ceasing all support for militant groups in the Middle East and the release of all U.S. citizens detained in Iran on what the administration considers illegitimate grounds. The United States, Germany, Britain, France, Russia, China and the European Union signed the 2015 deal with Iran, which lifted international sanctions in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear program, including restricting uranium enrichment for 10 years. On May 8, 2018, Trump pulled out of the agreement, which he called "the worst deal in history." He said the accord should also have restrained Iran's ballistic missile program and curbed Tehran's malign activities in the region and support for terror networks. The administration then re-imposed the sanctions on Iran that had been lifted when the agreement went into force. The administration sees its move as a success. Deprived of much of its oil revenue, Iran cut its overall military spending by 28% after reaching a peak in 2017, Hook said. Inflation has risen in the Islamic Republic and the economy is in recession, forecast to shrink by 3%, while global oil prices haven't budged even as Iranian crude has been largely taken out of the market, production at a historic low. "We have made our focus around diplomatic isolation and economic pressure," he said. "That policy is working." The other nations who signed the nuclear deal negotiated by the Obama administration have remained in the pact and have tried to provide Iran with enough economic incentives to keep the agreement alive. Complaining that it has not reaped the economic benefits it expected from signing the deal, Iran on Wednesday threatened to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms. Iran stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step something required under the deal. In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran said it would increase its enrichment of uranium beyond 3.67%, which is permitted by the accord. "Zarif today is doing what Zarif does very well, which is setting the table for negotiations because I think the Iranians are now realizing that they may not be able to wait Trump out," said Mark Dubowitz, chief executive of the Foundation for Defence of Democracies and a critic of the deal. "The economy is in such bad shape and getting worse that they may experience a massive economic crisis before January 2021," when either Trump starts a second term or a new American president takes office. "I think Zarif can't wait to get back to the table," Dubowitz said. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The heightened tension over Iran's nuclear program comes just after the U.S. dispatched the USS Lincoln aircraft carrier and bombers to the Persian Gulf in response to intelligence reports warning Iran was going to strike U.S. assets, interests or allies. Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told a Senate appropriations subcommittee Wednesday that intelligence threats the U.S. began receiving last week "really intensified" by the end of the week. He said the U.S. "sent some messages" to Tehran, but did not provide any details. Travelling in London, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo issued a restrained response to Iran's announcement. He said America "will wait and observe" what Iran does next. "They have made a number of statements about actions they have threatened to do in order to get the world to jump," Pompeo said. Tim Morrison, senior director for weapons of mass destruction under national security adviser John Bolton at the White House, was more critical of Iran's threat to violate the nuclear deal. "Let's be clear," he said. "This is nothing less than nuclear blackmail." ___ Associated Press writer Lolita C. Baldor in Washington contributed to this report. SASKATOON - Crews tasked with cleaning a Saskatchewan bridge are in for a dirty job. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Pigeons roost on the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge in Saskatoon, Sask., Wednesday, May 8, 2019. The City of Saskatoon says that for the past 50 years one of its bridges has accumulated nearly 350 tonnes of pigeon feces. It says those piles equal to roughly 230 cars sitting parked on the bridge. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Kayle Neis SASKATOON - Crews tasked with cleaning a Saskatchewan bridge are in for a dirty job. The City of Saskatoon says that over the last 50 years one of its bridges has accumulated nearly 350 tonnes of pigeon poop which is roughly equal to 230 cars parked on the bridge. It says the feces adds unnecessary weight and the pigeon droppings contain uric acid which can damage concrete. The facelift also means the extermination of about 1,500 members of the feathered flock that makes the Sid Buckwold Bridge home. The city says relocating or displacing the birds is not recommended because they are likely to fly back or move into other private properties or civic spaces. A local wildlife advocate is disappointed and questions why alternatives can't be found that would allow the birds to live. "In Saskatchewan, a very, very, very common response is if it pisses you off, shoot it," says Jan Shadick, volunteer director of Living Sky Wildlife Rehabilitation. Shadick blames Saskatoon's approach on a regional attitude towards so-called pesky wildlife. "Everybody's getting really mad at the pigeons, but if you didn't clean your house for 50 years, I'm going to guess it would probably be condemned." In emails to The Canadian Press, a city spokesman says the bridge was designed with more than 30 cavities underneath, which make the structure rather cosy for pigeons to nest, but are difficult to reach. "The challenge has always been access to these areas. They are essentially inaccessible over the river and the most efficient plan was to wait until the bridge rehab project," Mark Rogstad wrote. Clearing out the pigeons and their poop was set to begin this week. The city says once finished, it will take steps to deter the birds from renesting. Canadian cities take different approaches to dealing with pigeons. On other bridges in Saskatoon, the city uses mesh and barriers to prevent roosting and utilizes falcons around its waste-water treatment plant and landfill. Regina and Vancouver rely on pigeon spikes, protective netting or cages to keep pigeons off their facilities. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Toronto and Calgary do not practise pigeon control. A spokeswoman for the city of Ottawa says there's no bylaw for regulating wild animals on private property, but the city recommends that people animal-proof their homes. Shadick says she supports non-lethal ways to manage wildlife and believes if Saskatoon wants to be seen as an environmentally friendly, forward-thinking city it should rethink its plan. "The pigeons are simply doing what they do," she says. "They're living. They're eating. They're procreating. They're being pigeons. They're being birds." By Stephanie Taylor in Regina Manitoba teachers are calling on the province to strike a blow against poverty and create a universal meal program to feed a growing number of hungry students in public schools. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Manitoba teachers are calling on the province to strike a blow against poverty and create a universal meal program to feed a growing number of hungry students in public schools. "Proper nutrition supports student learning," Manitoba Teachers' Society president Norm Gould said Wednesday. "Hungry kids arent focused on schoolwork theyre focused on hunger pangs." Germany, Sweden, France and other developed countries have universal meal programs in schools, he said, adding they see it as an investment because students are more successful in school if they have proper nutrition. A universal meal program is one of 17 recommendations made Wednesday to the Manitoba commission on kindergarten to Grade 12 education, led by former Tory finance and education minister Clayton Manness. "(The commission) asked: 'How are you going to pay for these recommendations?'" said the teachers society president, who admitted he didn't have an answer. "We're coming at it from what's in the best interest of kids." Poverty is one of the biggest barriers to learning and Manitoba has one of the highest child-poverty rates in Canada, said the group, which represents 16,000 teachers in the province. One in two First Nations children, one in four Metis, and one in four Inuit live in poverty, recent data shows. Any plan for improving the public education system has to include a comprehensive action plan to reduce poverty's impact on students, the society told the education commission In 2016-17, the Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba, which funds school nutrition programs, served 3.7 million snacks and meals, reaching 24,000 students and 239 programs, but it wasn't sufficient, the teachers said. Additional resources are needed to meet the demand in 60 per cent of the programs supported by the council. "We recognize that the issue of poverty extends beyond meal programs, but we have to start somewhere," Gould said. A universal school meal program for Manitoba isn't a new proposal, said chairman of the Make Poverty History Manitoba coalition, Michael Barkman. "It was in our 'View From Here' plan we launched four years ago." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. In 2015, the report by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives called for a renewed poverty reduction plan in Manitoba, including "an adequately funded and nutritionally sound provincial school nourishment program that is available to all schools in need by 2020." Teachers are now speaking up for hungry students, said Barkman. "It's so good to see the union of teachers in our province saying they'll get better results when we address poverty, and that it's the root cause of so many issues, including poor educational outcomes." In the long term, investing in the health and education of children is as important to Manitoba's economy as reducing the deficit, Barkman said. "When we're only focused on the immediate goal of deficit reduction, we're not seeing the chipping away at and eroding of public services that's the result," he said. "Having that approach to short-term budgetary goals will really damage our future especially for kids." carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca OTTAWA Manitoba could be losing out on its share of dozens of millions of tax dollars because Ottawa isnt tracking how foreign e-commerce sites remit revenue, according to the auditor general's office. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Manitoba could be losing out on its share of "dozens of millions" of tax dollars because Ottawa isnt tracking how foreign e-commerce sites remit revenue, according to the auditor general's office. Couriers are pocketing some of the taxes they collect on behalf of governments, auditors said, though they wouldn't specify which companies. The auditors found in 2017, the Canada Revenue Agency failed to collect $169 million in its share of goods and services tax (GST) from digital vendors, but the Canada Border Services Agency can't even say whether provinces are getting their fair share of provincial sales tax (PST) and harmonized sales tax (HST). "It's clear that under the current system, Canadian businesses are disadvantaged because they must collect and remit the GST, so Canadians benefit by purchasing from foreign vendors," said Philippe Le Goff, who led one of five audits released Tuesday. Le Goff would not say what online firms are involved in the purchases in which provinces might be short-changed on tax revenue. The auditors found in 2017, the Canada Revenue Agency failed to collect $169 million in its share of goods and services tax from digital vendors. (Graeme Roy / The Canadian Press files) "We did not look at any specific businesses involved in e-commerce because we think this is a systemic issue," Le Goff told reporters. The auditor's estimate of $169 million in lost GST revenue spans both commerce and subscription sites, which theoretically could include streaming services, online shopping and ride-hailing. Meanwhile, the lack of accounting for PST surrounds a program for collecting levies on low-value shipments to Canada, meaning those worth under $2,500. Tuesdays audit noted the CBSA could not determine whether it had collected the right amount of provincial sales taxes for products bound for four provinces, including Manitoba. In fact, Manitoba could be missing out due to a bureaucratic split between tax rates. Manitoba collects its PST separate from the federal GST, but when a product from abroad arrives in Canada to a province that adheres to Ottawa's HST framework, such as Ontario, and then is sent to a home in a PST province such as Manitoba, the CBSA doesn't collect the provincial tax, making it unclear if the PST actually reaches the province. When a product from abroad arrives in Canada to a province that adheres to Ottawa's HST framework and then is sent to a PST province, the CBSA doesn't collect the provincial tax, making it unclear if the PST actually reaches the province. (Mark Lennihan / The Canadian Press files) Conservative CRA critic Pat Kelly said he would be raising the issue with both agencies when they come to testify about the report. "The border service is going to have answer fairly quickly. Its just disappointing," he said in an interview. While auditors didnt estimate how much revenue is pegged to each province, Le Goff said "dozens of millions of dollars" are likely earmarked for Manitoba each year, and its unclear what proportion actually made it to the provinces coffers. The report suggests the CBSA relied on the good faith of courier companies to declare and remit the sales taxes they collected from consumers, despite indications courier companies did not declare the full taxes owing to the government. In spite of that, officials did nothing to resolve the issue, the report said. Le Goff refused to name any of the courier companies apparently ripping off the tax system. Is the government collecting enough taxes from eBay transactions? Maybe. The auditors won't say what companies they looked at. (Marcio Jose Sanchez / The Canadian Press files) "We are bound by confidentiality; this is commercial information," he told reporters. Kelly wondered why the CBSA wasn't taking action. "I think that's always going to be unacceptable to any Canadian who does follow the rules. E-commerce is a growing area of activity but it's not brand new... It's a large business and it's growing," he said. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The CBSA has said it will refine its tax-collection protocols later this year in lockstep with a global working group that concludes in September. Yet the auditors noted Canada is not following 2017 recommendations from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, a group spanning most developed countries. The OECD suggested Canada set up a simple registry for foreign firms to collect and remit federal and provincial taxes. A Liberal-majority House committee made the same recommendation a year ago. The federal government wrote Tuesday that the CRA has taken appropriate first steps to address the issue, which includes educating taxpayers of their GST/HST obligations and conducting test audits. Cabinet did not promise any changes to CBSA protocol nor tax collection from firms based abroad. Finance Minister Bill Morneau has said hes awaiting a OECD report on how countries ought to tax online giants writ large, so Canada is in line with other countries. dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca The Pallister government came under attack Tuesday for spending an "eye-popping" amount on consultants in the three years since taking office. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Pallister government came under attack Tuesday for spending an "eye-popping" amount on consultants in the three years since taking office. According to a list compiled by the Opposition NDP, the government and its Crown corporations have ordered more than $23-million worth of studies by private consultants up from $16 million when the Free Press first drew attention to the issue in November. The latest contracts include a $3-million Manitoba Hydro marketing and customer service unit review, $750,000 for the province's K-12 educational review, $287,000 for a KPMG look at the use of public/private partnerships in the construction of Manitoba schools, and $700,000 for health-care consolidation and streamlining. It also includes an estimated $1 million for a yet-to-be-awarded contract for the review of CancerCare Manitoba. MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew on the Tories' $23-million worth of studies by private consultants: "It's just too much." Premier Brian Pallister defended the use of consultants, saying they've helped his Tory government vastly reduce the provincial deficit by helping to find efficiencies and eliminate waste and duplication. "That takes work, and that work involves asking smart people for their views," he said. NDP Leader Wab Kinew said the $23 million would have been better spent on health care and education. While some use of consultants is justified, the Progressive Conservatives have gone overboard, he said. "It's an eye-popping figure," Kinew said. "It's just too much." PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS NDP Nahanni Fontaine challenges Premier Brian Pallister on consultant fees during question period Tuesday. In grilling the premier on the issue in the legislature, NDP MLA Nahanni Fontaine (St. Johns) said the government has not been listening to Manitobans who are opposed to its austerity agenda. "To put (the $23 million) in perspective, that amount could keep Seven Oaks (General Hospital's) ER running for three years," Fontaine said. "It could keep Concordia (Hospital's) ER running for three years." Concordia's emergency room had been scheduled to shut down in late June, although the timing of the closure is now in doubt while that decision and others are being examined by consultant Dr. David Peachey at a cost of $100,000. The Seven Oaks emergency room is slated for closure in September. Last fall, the Free Press tabulated close to 20 studies and reviews commissioned by the provincial government. It was not an exhaustive list all governments engage outside experts on numerous issues but included some of the more high-profile efforts by the Tories to enlist help to shape policy and/or drive costs down. Since then, by the NDP's count, an additional $7 million worth of studies have been requested by government and Crown corporations. RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES Dr. David Peachey is consulting the provincial government about the closure of Concordia's emergency room at a cost of $100,000. larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. It appears as if the love-hate relationship between the New Democratic Party and Steve Ashton is going to end in scorched-earth fashion. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion It appears as if the love-hate relationship between the New Democratic Party and Steve Ashton is going to end in scorched-earth fashion. A former lion of the party who surprisingly lost his seat in the 2016 election, Ashtons bid to stand as the NDPs candidate in Thompson again in the next provincial election was derailed when he was informed he had been rejected by the NDPs candidate selection committee. An Ashton supporter, outraged that a man who had spent 35 years in the Manitoba legislature could be denied a chance to come back from his 2016 defeat, suggested that the vetting committee was imposing the will of Winnipeg party members on a northern riding. Blair Hudson, a Thompson representative on the partys provincial council, told The Canadian Press that Ashtons rejection was orchestrated by current leader Wab Kinew as payback for a bitter 2017 leadership race. "Theres something amiss here," Hudson told CP. On the face of it, perhaps there is something wrong about a sudden decision to exclude a man who represented the NDP in northern Manitoba for nearly 40 years. An appeal of the selection committees decision was scheduled to be held Tuesday night, the results of which were not available at press time. But as is always the case when Ashton is involved, the story is much more complex than either he or his supporters would have others believe. In defending Ashton and assailing the NDP for its Winnipeg-centric sensibilities, neither Ashton (who has not responded to interview requests) nor Hudson mentioned that the selection committee provided them with a five-page letter outlining the concerns that prompted the decision to reject his application. Multiple party sources confirmed that letter includes details of a dispute that Ashton had with the Legislative Assembly over office equipment and furniture that apparently was missing when he cleared out of his office in the legislative building in 2016. The sources said the matter has been resolved, but that it took nearly three years. There are also concerns about tens of thousands of dollars in expenses from Ashtons two leadership campaigns, and from his 2016 re-election campaign, which were paid using personal funds. Sources said the selection committee suggested that having failed to raise funds legitimately to pay himself back for these expenses, he may have contravened electoral financing laws. The sources said the selection committee also referenced the Tiger Dam scandal, where it was revealed in 2015 that Ashton had attempted through improper means to get approval for a $5-million untendered contract for a company that was owned in part by a longtime personal and political friend. Finally, there were concerns raised about his behaviour in the 2017 leadership race, where it was discovered Ashton had sent anonymous letters to party delegates attacking Wab Kinew, the eventual winner. The letters, which did not contain any reference to Ashton or his leadership campaign, revealed previously undisclosed personal and legal details about Kinew, including the fact he was charged with domestic assault before he became a politician. The charges were eventually stayed, but the revelation that he had been accused of domestic violence continues to haunt Kinew today. Does all that justify blackballing him as a potential candidate? If Ashton were an MLA now, it is unlikely the NDP caucus would expel him for any one of the transgressions listed in that letter. Even taken together, its hard to see them as justification for expulsion. But then again, the letter only captures a small portion of Ashtons transgressions. There were Ashtons efforts in 2011 to find supporters to challenge sitting NDP MLAs, likely as a punishment to those who did not support him in 2009 when he lost the leadership to former premier Greg Selinger. The party was forced to move up several nomination meetings where Ashton supporters were organizing campaigns to challenge incumbents. In St. Norbert, they didnt move fast enough, and incumbent MLA Marilyn Brick decided to retire from politics rather than face Ashtons candidate. Then there is the role he played in helping Selinger retain his leadership in 2015, setting up the colossal defeat at the hands of the Tories in the 2016 election. Ashton supported Selinger when he battled five dissident cabinet ministers who publicly called for his resignation. Then he ran against Selinger in a special leadership vote. When he lost on the first ballot, he pledged to support challenger Theresa Oswald, but then reneged and instead sent all his delegates home so they could not vote in the second round. It was a betrayal that, along with other factors, helped Selinger retain the leadership. Dan Lett | Not for Attribution A weekly look at politics close to home and around the world that is sent every Tuesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Ashton has been, over the years, so relentless and ambitious in seeking the leadership that the party had to amend its rules for membership sales and for leadership votes to stop him from flooding the party with suspiciously cultivated instant members. It is not hard to understand why Ashton would be seeking a comeback. He is a never-say-die politician who simply does not let setbacks such as election or leadership losses dull his appetite for public office. Having said that, when you combine the contents of the letter from the selection committee with various other acts of duplicity and manipulation, it is also equally easy to understand why the party would try to block him from making a comeback. Although Ashton remains a man of high profile in northern Manitoba, he is also the man who lost what the NDP thought was an safe seat, in an election where his party needed to retain as many safe seats as possible. After losing in 2016, it is no longer certain he is his partys best bet to reclaim Thompson. But thats the thing about Ashton. He seems to spend so much time figuring out whats good for Steve, he doesnt have a lot of time to worry about whats good for his party. dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca Premier Brian Pallister dropped no new hints about a potential snap election date when he addressed supporters at the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitobas largest annual fundraising event Tuesday night. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Premier Brian Pallister dropped no new hints about a potential snap election date when he addressed supporters at the Progressive Conservative Party of Manitobas largest annual fundraising event Tuesday night. Instead, during his 20-minute speech at the dinner which saw around 800 people come out at a price tag of $200 per plate he trumpeted many of his governments well-known talking points and promised continued prosperity for Manitobans. "The potential in this province is untapped and unbelievable. If we keep pursuing as we have, with the focus and the team-building weve been doing, well achieve amazing things in this beautiful place," Pallister said. "The only thing better than tonight in Manitoba is going to be tomorrow in Manitoba." While he worked to rally the party faithful at the event, which was held at the Victoria Inn Hotel and Conference Centre, Pallister kept mum on a possible early election date. The vote is set for Oct. 6, 2020, but hes repeatedly hinted his government may call an early election so as to not interfere with celebrations for Manitobas 150th birthday. As he addressed the crowd, gesturing with his hands as he spoke, Pallister riffed on his family and rural roots, and shared anecdotes about his early days in provincial politics and conversations hes had with Manitobans. Manitoba is now back on track after the mess left by the former NDP government has been cleaned up, Pallister said, adding that not only are the provinces finances being fixed, but services are being improved at the same time. Among other accomplishments, he pointed to his governments fulfilled campaign promises to cut both the provincial sales tax (which will be reduced effective July 1) and ambulance fees. "Fifty-six per cent of Manitoba families have less than $200 to spend every month. I know what thats like. I come from a family like that I know what that feels like and I know many of you do, too. Ill never forget it," Pallister said. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "We make hope bigger. Thats what our government is doing(Politics) is about trying to make life better. Its about helping people at the kitchen table have a better sense of optimism and hope." He also told a story about when his grandfather had his Thermos which had been a gift from his wife stolen by a young man hed offered a ride to. When he realized it had been taken, he tracked the man down and retrieved his property. Pallister then likened the young man stealing his grandfathers Thermos to the former NDP government reneging on their promise not to raise the PST in 2013. "Ladies and gentlemen, on July 1, we get our Thermos back," Pallister said. ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @rk_thorpe The Pallister government has established an endowment fund to preserve military memorials in Manitoba. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Pallister government has established an endowment fund to preserve military memorials in Manitoba. On the 74th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, the government announced Wednesday an initial investment of $2 million to create the fund, which will be managed by the Winnipeg Foundation. Premier Brian Pallister said a study in 1996 found there were more than 200 military memorials of various types in the province, ranging from 20 to 100 years old. "That same study concluded that many of those memorials required repair and maintenance, but that there was no provincial program dedicated to preserving those memorials," he said at a ceremony at the Manitoba Legislative Building attended by several members of the Canadian Armed Forces. "Today, that will change." The Military Memorial Conservation Fund will offer annual grants for war memorial preservation projects, statues, plaques and other tributes across the province. It's expected the fund will generate about $100,000 a year. The government is encouraging private donations as well. Maj.-Gen. Christian Drouin, commander of 1 Canadian Air Division/NORAD Canadian Region, said the military is "extremely appreciative" of the establishment of the fund. He said the Forces have a significant presence in Manitoba, with more than 5,000 men and women serving in the province. Manitoba is also home to more than 21,000 military veterans and their families, Drouin said. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "The importance of keeping the spirit of remembrance alive in every community cannot be understated," he said. Many memorials were borne from tragedy, Drouin said. They provided a place where communities could come to grieve the numerous casualties from the two world wars. "In time, wounds heal and these symbols of grief became marks of pride," Drouin said. "Day after day, they serve as important reminders that we should never take our freedom for granted." The government said memorials qualifying for funding will include structures whose sole purpose is military commemoration. They will include memorials such as cenotaphs, sculptures, plaques and cairns. Moveable objects such as scrolls, books and banners may also be eligible. More details on the program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply will be made available later this year. larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca A Winnipeg man whose life was changed forever by Jean Vanier vividly remembers one thing about meeting the founder of L'Arche in 1998. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A Winnipeg man whose life was changed forever by Jean Vanier vividly remembers one thing about meeting the founder of L'Arche in 1998. "He was pretty tall," said Albert, who moved into one of the homes founded by the 6-6 Vanier, leaving the Manitoba Developmental Centre institution at age 30. Now 74, the resident of L'Arche whose core members are identified publicly by first name only said he doesn't like to talk about his time "in Portage." At age 15, Albert was taken to the Portage la Prairie institution. It opened in 1890 as the Home for Incurables and once housed 1,200 residents, all living with disabilities. Now only 160 remain after many residents transitioned to homes in the community. LEFTERIS PITARAKIS / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS FILES Jean Vanier died at the age of 90. Today, Albert lives in a sprawling, sunny, family home in Transcona, with roommates and support. He plays the organ, creates art and has his own bedroom painted a deep red at his request he shares with his beloved Alvin and the Chipmunks and other stuffed animals. Albert's creative juices, his joy for living and a natural talent for making friends have flourished, said Jim Lapp, L'Arche's executive director, who's known him for 40 years. LArche Winnipeg began in 1973, and is now made up of six houses and two apartments, where 27 members with a developmental disability have found a caring home, living with approximately 25 assistants. Vanier died Tuesday in Paris, at the age of 90. L'Arche describes itself as a community of people, young and old, married and single, from an array of cultural and religious backgrounds, "who choose to live faithful and life-giving relationships with those who have a developmental disability, affirming their place and importance in our society." RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Albert left the Manitoba Developmental Centre institution at age 30. After becoming part of the community through L'Arche, Lapp said Albert lost the anger he carried from the institution. Now, he's paying the gift of peace forward, he said. "People with disabilities teach us a lot," said Lapp. "The purpose of L'Arche is to make known the gifts of people with disabilities, their welcoming and their forgiveness. They know how to celebrate life." Albert is now retired from jobs at WASO (Work and Social Opportunities) and LArche Tova Cafe on Regent Avenue West, where he was in his element greeting customers. "I'm not shy," said Albert, who visits the popular breakfast and lunch spot at least once a week. In retirement, he's happy to play the Hammond organ at home or spend time in prayer or look out at the birds in the backyard with Patsy Zet, a friend and support worker who has known Albert for more than a decade. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A photo of Albert with Jean Vanier at a retreat in 1998. His gentle presence and reminders that "You're going to be OK" affect the people around him in a big way, said Zet, who immigrated from Chile. "He teaches me not to be so afraid." For example, Zet recalled a time when she felt homesick, missing her family, and excused herself from the room. Albert went to find her to offer reassurance. "He said, 'It's OK. We're your family.'" It worked, said Zet, whose seen Albert sharing the sense of peace he's found in L'Arche with many people. On Tuesday, when he was asked how he felt about the death of Vanier, Albert remained unfazed. "He's in heaven," said Albert. "He was our founder." carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca There are few Canadians who are more generally respected than our veterans. Most Canadians would wholeheartedly agree with that statement. Why, then, do governments and administrators fail to take that sentiment and transform it into high-quality care for the people they claim to respect so very much? Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Opinion There are few Canadians who are more generally respected than our veterans. Most Canadians would wholeheartedly agree with that statement. Why, then, do governments and administrators fail to take that sentiment and transform it into high-quality care for the people they claim to respect so very much? Canadas veterans and the people who serve them are asking the same question. The federal government professes the same belief about its support for veterans, yet every day, we see more reductions to services and challenges to serve the people who have served us so well. One great example of this contradiction between public will and government action is unfolding at Deer Lodge Centre in Winnipeg. Since this facility was transferred to provincial jurisdiction in 1983, services have been reduced and the quality of care has gone down. The federal government sent money and their good wishes but did little followup or monitoring. The provincial government took the money, put it in its bank account and told the centre to keep on operating. The centre tried to manage with this reduced funding, but that meant cutting costs and reducing services to veterans an unacceptable situation that continues to date. This pattern of funding and service cutbacks is not new. The previous federal government had an active program to cut costs and funding, and even closed service offices where veterans could get personal assistance. The new federal government restored some of the funding and reopened some service centres, then the cutbacks started again. In 2017 and 2018, there were cutbacks in staff and services at Deer Lodge Centre. Some staff were laid off and others had their hours cut, but even so, the workload was increased. Staff picked up extra duties in medical care, such as IV drips and additional housekeeping duties. They were told to lower the personal-hygiene standards and daily baths became every second day. Veterans have suffered as a result. When the workers, through the Union of Veterans Affairs Employees (UVAE), raised these concerns, we were told by a senior administrator the number of veterans is decreasing and they wouldnt be around in a few more years. That is just plain disrespectful to existing veterans and to those who are coming into their ranks from conflicts in such places as Bosnia and Afghanistan. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The end result of all this has been disastrous for veterans and their families. Now, its about to get worse. The government of Manitoba is consolidating bargaining units through Bill 29, the Health Care Bargaining Unit Review Act. This will result in reducing whatever sense of community staff and veterans have created at Deer Lodge Centre, and will see the veterans unit swallowed up in the giant provincial health-care system. It doesnt have to be this way. For more than 40 years, members of the UVAE have been providing services to veterans at this facility. Together with veterans and their families, we have created a real community for our respected veterans and their families. We fear their level of care and that sense of community could easily be lost. We can keep this great community of care with one simple act: give Deer Lodge Centre permission to have "unique status" under the proposed legislation and allow it to continue to serve Canadas veterans. We do not want to just continue those services. We want to enhance and improve them. We also want them to be there for future veterans and veterans who are currently homeless on the streets of Winnipeg and other Canadian cities. They have served us, and they deserve the best care and services a grateful country can provide. We think Canadians will agree. Our veterans deserve better. Now, it is up to us to deliver. Virginia Vaillancourt is the national president of the Union of Veterans Affairs Employees. The lifespan of a printed receipt tends to be rather short and tragic. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The lifespan of a printed receipt tends to be rather short and tragic. It begins when a helpful retail person brightly asks if you want the shiny list of the things you just bought, bearing the name of the store in which you are currently standing, placed in the bag with your purchases. California State Assemblyman Phil Ting wants large retailers, banks and other businesses to provide paper receipts to customers only on request by 2022. (Rich Pedroncelli / The Associated Press) You dont, not really, but you say yes. Besides, what if you want to make a return? The retail person then produces a receipt roughly the length of a toddler. It includes a survey you will never take and an exchange policy you will wilfully ignore. Then, it goes into the bag. Or it stays "with you," which is the only other choice presented. Sometimes, you will be asked, "Do you want your copy?" The trouble is, your answer doesnt matter your copy is printed whether you want it or not. Then, the receipt gets crumpled and smeared and lost. Your wallet teems with them until you throw them away. They flutter out of your purse and onto the ground. Some receipts are useful what if you want to make a return? but the vast majority of them are garbage as soon as they are printed. Is it time we did away with paper receipts completely? Receipts are more than just annoying clutter. They may be harmful to your health. Most are printed on thermal paper using heat as opposed to ink. The paper is coated with bisphenol A (BPA) or bisphenol S (BPS), the chemical that gives receipts their shiny lustre but may give you an endocrinological condition. Thats the concern raised by several studies, including one conducted by Environmental Defence Canada, which concluded consumers as well as retail workers, servers and cashiers are exposed to "worrying" levels of BPA and BPS, which can disrupt human hormones. Concerns about paper receipts prompted California State Assemblyman Phil Ting to introduce legislation that would require large retailers, banks and other businesses to provide paper receipts to customers only on request by 2022. So far, the Canadian government has not seen fit to ban bisphenols in receipts, which is interesting, considering Canada was the first country to ban BPA in baby bottles in 2010, and the first to declare bisphenols toxic. Health Canada has not concluded receipts are a significant source of exposure to the chemical. In the smartphone era, there has been a concerted push toward paperless billing and banking, and many retailers now offer emailed receipts. Of course, theres consumer resistance to doing away with physical receipts: not everyone has a smartphone, people are hesitant about providing retailers with their email addresses and also, what if you want to make a return? Want more great journalism? Get our best news and features delivered in your inbox every weekday evening. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. There would be a cost to retailers, as well, to revamp point-of-sale technology. That said, its not like there is no precedent for change. Most receipts are printed on thermal paper coated with bisphenol A or bisphenol S, the chemical that gives receipts their shiny lustre but may give you an endocrinological condition. (Julie Jacobson / The Associated Press files) Look at single-use plastics. Once the alarm was sounded about the deleterious environmental effects of plastic straws, in particular, businesses from local eateries to major fast-food chains began to overhaul their practices. Or look at the bags those receipts are being slid into: increasingly, they are not plastic, but reusable cotton and nylon. These are small, within-our-grasp individual changes that can make a difference, especially when they are bolstered by regulation and legislation. To borrow a phrase from the infomercial industry, there has to be a better way when it comes to receipts. Looking at all the available evidence, we really shouldnt want our printed receipts in our bags, with us or anywhere else. Labour activists and academics from across Canada are gathering in the city for the start of a four-day conference to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Labour activists and academics from across Canada are gathering in the city for the start of a four-day conference to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike. The University of Winnipeg will play host to the conference subtitled: Building a Better World: 1919-2019. It runs Wednesday through Saturday. The geography of Winnipeg remains shaped by the event, with its working-class North End and more-affluent south end neighbourhoods, said conference chairman James Naylor. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press) Some 300 delegates activists, academics and artists from the labour sector will take in 23 panel presentations. Plus, "We have three public roundtables, the first is on poverty and the fight for a material existence, the second is on building an inclusive labour movement, and the third is making labour a social force and a political leader," conference committee member and Brandon University history Prof. Rhonda Hinther said Tuesday. "Those are all wide open to the public... It is really an amazing cast of activists. leaders, scholars and other folks who involved in making public these very important issues and pushing them forward." Jane McAlevey, a prominent U.S. author, educator, activist and organizer, will deliver the keynote Thursday evening at the Ukrainian Labour Temple, described by conference organizers as "an artifact" of the landmark general strike. The building was a key organizing hub, as some 35,000 workers walked off the job in May 1919 to demand collective bargaining rights and a living wage that are now the cornerstones of modern labour unions. The strike halted factories and stalled an entire city for six solid weeks. The shockwaves reverberated across the country, triggered a rise in unionism and sympathetic labour actions from Nova Scotia to British Columbia and inflamed fears of a Bolshevik-style revolution. On June 21, Winnipeg mayor Charles Frederick Gray read the Riot Act, mounted police charged the unarmed crowds, a striker was shot dead, another later died of his wounds, strike leaders were arrested and the military patrolled city streets. In the wake of "Bloody Saturday," labour leaders called off the strike June 25. The geography of Winnipeg remains shaped by the event, with its working-class North End and more-affluent south end neighbourhoods, said conference chairman James Naylor. The temper of the times today is not unlike the social conditions a century ago, the Brandon University history professor said. "There are a lot of connections. One is the immediate cause of the strike was connected to two issues: (first), collective bargaining, which continues to be an issue today. Collective bargaining rights are sometimes tenuous. Business and government eat them away at various times, and thats the situation today," Naylor said. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "The other issue is the fight against poverty and we are fighting with a lot of precarious jobs and that seems to be rising problem." The conference will draw attention to a factor that's often overlooked in the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike. "One of the interesting things... is in 1919, not a lot of workers were unionized. When they went out on strike, thousands of other workers who were not unionized went out in support of them and all sorts of other people, like returned soldiers from the (First) World War, rallied to support them," Naylor said. Ordinary people found themselves thrust into positions of leadership against a backdrop of inequality and injustice not all that different in this current age of populism, Naylor noted. "One of the kind of features of the last 20 years, of neoliberalism, is that the rates of social inequality are returning in many countries to what they were in the Great Depression and before. The worlds becoming hugely unequal, as it was at that time... There is a lot of fear and anger out there about all sorts of issues." alexandra.paul@freepress.mb.ca TEHRAN, Iran - Iran threatened Wednesday to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal, raising regional tensions as a U.S. aircraft carrier and bombers headed to the Middle East to confront Tehran. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. FILE - In this Jan. 13, 2015, file photo released by the Iranian President's Office, President Hassan Rouhani visits the Bushehr nuclear power plant just outside of Bushehr, Iran. Rouhani is reportedly set to announce ways the Islamic Republic will react to continued U.S. pressure after President Donald Trump pulled America from TehranAos nuclear deal with world powers. Iranian media say Rouhani is expected to deliver a nationwide address as soon as Wednesday, May 8, 2019, regarding the steps the country will take. (AP Photo/Iranian Presidency Office, Mohammad Berno, File) TEHRAN, Iran - Iran threatened Wednesday to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal, raising regional tensions as a U.S. aircraft carrier and bombers headed to the Middle East to confront Tehran. A televised address by President Hassan Rouhani, who once pledged that the landmark deal would draw Iran closer to the West, saw the cleric instead pressure Europe to shield Tehran from the sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump withdrawing the U.S. from the agreement exactly a year earlier. In this photo released by the official website of the office of the Iranian Presidency, President Hassan Rouhani speaks in a cabinet meeting in Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Rouhani said Wednesday that it will begin keeping its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, setting a 60-day deadline for new terms to its nuclear deal with world powers before it will resume higher uranium enrichment. (Iranian Presidency Office via AP) Rouhani's threats put the world on notice that it cannot continue to rely on Iran complying with terms of the unraveling deal in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, a U.S. campaign of sanctions hammering Iran's anemic economy and blocking its sale of oil on the global market is only making life worse, putting further pressure on both its Shiite theocracy and its 80 million people. Later Wednesday, Trump issued an executive order announcing new sanctions targeting Iran's steel, aluminum, copper and iron sectors, which provide foreign currency earnings for Tehran. Rouhani earlier compared the situation to a medical emergency for the Islamic Republic, only 40 years after its founding. "We felt that the nuclear deal needs a surgery, and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective," Rouhani said. "This surgery is for saving the deal, not destroying it." Iran on Wednesday stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step, Rouhani said, something required under the deal. The U.S. last week ended deals allowing Iran to exchange its enriched uranium for unrefined yellowcake uranium with Russia, and to sell its heavy water, which is used as a coolant in nuclear reactors, to Oman. In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran will increase its enrichment of uranium beyond the accord-permitted 3.67%, which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Rouhani did not say how far Iran would be willing to enrich, although the head of its nuclear program again reiterated Iran could reach 20% enrichment within four days. Once a country enriches uranium to around 20%, scientists say the time needed to reach the 90% threshold for weapons-grade uranium is halved. Iran long has maintained its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, Iranian state television's English-language service Press TV, citing sources close to presidency, said the country would withdraw from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty if Europeans sought to sanction Iran at the U.N. Security Council. In this photo released by the official website of the office of the Iranian Presidency, President Hassan Rouhani, center, heads a cabinet meeting in Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Rouhani said Wednesday that it will begin keeping its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, setting a 60-day deadline for new terms to its nuclear deal with world powers before it will resume higher uranium enrichment. (Iranian Presidency Office via AP) Rouhani also said that if the 60 days pass without action, Iran will halt a Chinese-led effort to redesign its Arak heavy water nuclear reactor. Such reactors produce plutonium that can be used in nuclear weapons. Iran notified Britain, Russia, China, the European Union, France and Germany of its decision earlier in the day. All were signatories to the nuclear deal and continue to support it. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif met Wednesday in Moscow with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and offered a letter as well. "If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal," Rouhani said. Zarif separately issued his own warning from Moscow. "After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that (the) US has made impossible to continue," he tweeted. World powers have "a narrowing window to reverse this." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, right, speaks at a joint press conference with Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt at the Foreign Office in central London, Wednesday May 8, 2019. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in London for talks with British officials on the status of the special relationship between the two nations amid heightened tensions with Iran and uncertainty over Britain's exit from the European Union. (Mandel Ngan/Pool via AP) Reaction came swiftly from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a staunch critic of Iran and the nuclear deal. "I heard that Iran intends to continue its nuclear program. We will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said. "We will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives, and we will thrust our roots even deeper into the soil of our homeland." U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in London, said America "will wait and observe" what Iran does next. "They have made have made a number of statements about actions they have threatened to do in order to get the world to jump," Pompeo said. Rouhani also made an implicit threat as well to Europe, saying Iran now co-operates on issues like targeting Afghan opium and hashish traffickers and controlling immigration. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, left, attend a news conference during their meeting in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin) "You are obliged ... for your own security, for protecting your youths against drugs as well as controlling influx of immigrants," the president said. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt called Iran's threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium an "unwelcome step." French Defence Secretary Florence Parly was much more dire. "Nothing would be worse than Iran leaving this deal," he told BMFTV. Iran's move comes at a sensitive moment in the wider Middle East. The White House said it dispatched the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf over what it described as a new threat from Iran. Israel, which has conducted pre-emptive bombings of nuclear facilities in Iraq and Syria, has vowed to never allow Iran to obtain an atomic weapon. Apparently responding to that, the general staff of Iran's armed forces issued a statement applauding Rouhani's decision and warning its enemies. "Any possible movement by them will face a regrettable response by Iranian nation and its armed forces," the statement said, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. In this photo released by the official website of the office of the Iranian Presidency, President Hassan Rouhani heads a cabinet meeting in Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Rouhani said Wednesday that it will begin keeping its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, setting a 60-day deadline for new terms to its nuclear deal with world powers before it will resume higher uranium enrichment. (Iranian Presidency Office via AP) The 2015 deal lifted sanctions on Iran in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. It reached the deal after years of negotiations, including secret talks in Oman between Iran and the administration of former President Barack Obama. The U.S. withdrew from the deal under Trump, whose administration contends the accord should have limited Iran's ballistic missile program and what it describes as Tehran's malign regional influence. However, the U.N.'s atomic watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, repeatedly has verified that Iran stuck to terms of the deal. The agency did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday. After the U.S. withdrew from the accord, it restored the crippling sanctions, exacerbating a severe economic crisis. The Iranian rial, which traded at 32,000 to $1 at the time of the accord, traded Wednesday at 153,500. That Iran chose to keep its excess uranium and heavy water first, rather than abandon the accord in its entirety, shows it still hopes to secure a deal. In years of negotiations over its nuclear program, Iran similarly has gone step-by-step in ramping its activities while holding talks. It also protects Rouhani, a relative moderate cleric within Iran's Shiite theocracy, from criticism by hard-liners who long maintained Iran gave up too much in the nuclear deal. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. On the streets of Tehran, the mood was mixed as people are struggling to make ends meet as the Iranian currency collapses. "It was a good but late decision by Iran," said Soroush Kamali, a 21-year-old geography student. "The West should learn that they cannot remain idle while Iranian people are suffering from sanctions." Zahra Ahari, a 43-year-old homemaker, simply wished for things to get better. "I do not understand the terms and words of officials. They should do something to make our life easier," Ahari said. "I hope the new decision will have such an impact." ___ Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Associated Press writers Ilan Ben Zion in Jerusalem and Matthew Lee in London contributed. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - When a gunman burst into his high school classroom, Kendrick Castillo did not hesitate. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 7/5/2019 (962 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - When a gunman burst into his high school classroom, Kendrick Castillo did not hesitate. The 18-year-old immediately charged, pinning the attacker to the wall before Castillo was fatally shot protecting classmates, witnesses said. As he charged, so did two other students. One of them, Brendan Bialy, wrestled the gun from the shooter's hand and the students subdued him. Students are led from a bus into a recreation center where they were reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) A second shooter was captured by an armed security guard. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimize the bloodshed from Tuesday's attack, which also wounded eight people. "We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school," Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said Wednesday. The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who prosecutors identified as Maya McKinney but whose attorney said uses male pronouns and the name Alec. The two allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine High School and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. Castillo sprang into action against the shooter "and immediately was on top of him with complete disregard for his own safety," said Bialy, a close friend of Castillo's who has signed up to join the Marines. A member of the school's robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humour, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. School buses arrive at a recreation center set up for students to get reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. "He was amazing," Bedard said. "He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke." Bialy smiled as he recounted the struggle with the shooter to reporters, saying that he wanted to focus on the positive. "They completely and utterly failed in a matter of half a minute," he said of the attackers. "What I saw yesterday was the absolute best of people," he added. This undated photo provided by Rachel Short shows Kendrick Castillo, who was killed during a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (Rachel Short via AP) Bialy would not identify the third student who helped subdue the gunman, but the family of Joshua Jones put out a statement saying he was shot twice while disarming one of the attackers. The security guard who detained the second armed suspect was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Whitus said. "He doesn't even realize how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting," Whitus said. About 2,000 people held a vigil at a nearby high school Wednesday night to honour the victims and survivors of the attack. A parent leaves with a child from the recreation center where students were reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. Erickson made his first court appearance Wednesday and kept his head down. His black hair, streaked with purple dye, covered his face as he nodded in response to most of District Court Judge Theresa Slade's questions. At one point, the judge requested a verbal answer to whether he had any questions about the proceedings. Erickson simply replied "No." McKinney, who has a short brown haircut, made eye contact with the judge and answered questions in a clear but quiet voice, saying "Yes, your honour" and "No, your honour." District attorney George Brauchler said he has not decided whether to file adult charges but added that McKinney is old enough to be charged as an adult without a judge's review. Formal charges were expected to be filed by Friday. Brauchler said he could not discuss any motive or weapons used in the attack. This undated photo provided by the Joshua Jones family shows Joshua Jones. The family of Jones put out a statement saying he was shot twice while disarming one of the attackers who allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms Tuesday, May 7, 2019. (Courtesy of the Joshua Jones family via AP) A message left at a phone number listed for Erickson's home was not immediately returned. Josh Dutton, 18, said he was close friends with Erickson in middle school but had not seen him for four years while attending a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Erickson wore all black and was significantly thinner and did not seem interested in talking. "He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles," Dutton said. The shooting took place exactly a week after a gunman killed two students and wounded four at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. In that case as well, one of the fatalities was a student who charged the attacker. Deputies shield the parents of the victim who died in the attack at the STEM Highlands Ranch school as they attend the arraignment hearings for the two suspects Wednesday, May 8, 2019, in Castle Rock, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski) The Colorado attack unfolded came nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the anniversary of the Columbine attack that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about 7 miles (11 kilometres) in adjacent communities south of Denver. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including Columbine, the 2012 theatre shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are "aberrant acts" although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. "Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us." ___ This story has been updated to correct the name of the student who charged the shooter to Joshua Jones, instead of Jason Jones. ___ Riccardi reported from Denver. Associated Press writers Dan Elliott and Colleen Slevin in Denver and AP researchers Monika Mathur in Washington and Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this report. Roles defined Dye, the departments leader since January 2018, expects to offer some of the same classes again next year and will mix up the course topics to enhance its reach. The free classes might soon target the average citizen as well. Dye said she believes the department should be considered a resource for everyone in Sauk County. One of problems we run into with this division is people really dont know what environmental health is, Sanitarian Steve Lisser said. A lot of times people just think were environmental advocates, trying to prevent environmental damage to the world. And thats partially true, but the name doesnt do a great job explaining what we do. The Environmental Health Department, Lisser noted, serves as the official Radon Information Center for Sauk and Columbia counties and also handles investigations and educational visits concerning the presence of lead in homes. Radon is the second-leading cause of lung cancer behind only smoking, and the department encourages residents to purchase its radon test kits for $10. JUNEAU A Brookfield man accused in a string of bank robberies had a new charge added against him in Dodge County for the March 26 robbery of the BMO Harris Bank in Lomira. Kidane Dashew, 30, is charged with robbery of a financial institution in Dodge County Circuit Court. The charge has a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a $100,000 fine. He faces similar charges in Washington and Waukesha counties. Both Dodge and Washington counties have issued arrest warrants for Dashew. He made an appearance in Waukesha County Circuit Court on May 1. According to the Dodge County criminal complaint, staff at the Lomira bank called 911 on March 26 at 2:50 p.m. stating that a man had robbed a teller. The man went to the last teller station and handed the teller a note advising her to remain calm and hand over the $50 and $100 bills. The note also stated that he did not have a gun. The teller handed over the money including a stack of bait money. According to the criminal complaint, the man then left the bank. Video from another business in Lomira showed the man get into his car and run a stop sign before driving out of range of the camera. Jim could fix anything and was the go-to person wherever it was needed. Anytime somebody needed something he was there with his toolbox ready to go. If a tool or screw was needed or your bike tires had to be pumped up, we just went to Grandpas Garage and he knew exactly where everything was. Jim was also known for his sense of humor and his many one-liners that either had us shaking our heads or laughing and one of those was that guy could screw up a one car funeral. Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Janice; his daughters, Jana (Hugh) Roberts and JoAnn (Travis) Rose. He is also survived by five grandsons, Nick (Holly) Pfeffer, Corey Pfeffer, Jon (Brittney) Roberts, Kyle (Miranda Haima) Roberts and Jayden Rose; three granddaughters, Shanna (Mike) Phillips, Brianna (Alex) Seidel and Brooke (fiance, Rex Alexander) Roberts; two great-granddaughters, Saige and Ivy Pfeffer with baby Seidel due in October; two brothers-in-law, Randy (Marlene) Alsum and Norm Wiersma; two sisters-in-law, Harlene Driesenga and Thelma (Ken) Rozema; cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Rose Syens; his mother and father-in-law, Roy and Lena Alsum; three brothers-in-law, Roy Alsum, Ron Kok and Jay Driesenga; and one sister-in-law, Ardis Wiersma. A long-awaited renovation project at St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Beaver Dam has begun as the church seeks more funding. Renovation work started this week at the Catholic church on Spring Street after hundreds of people pledged $3.5 million to restore and expand the historic building, which the church has called home for almost 120 years. However, there is still a shortfall. According to the church, bids for the work still came in higher than expected, but the project couldnt wait. The church will have to borrow money to complete the work, which adds an additional expense, and many of the pledged donations will not start to roll in right away. St. Katharine Drexels is looking for an extra $100,000 and set up a GoFundMe page to help reduce the shortfall. The renovation work has started, with the pews already moved out and bricks from the exterior removed and saved. Rev. Mike Erwin said the renovation process should take 6-7 months. Services are now located at the churchs parish center, 408 S. Spring St. On Tuesday, Tip McGuire won the special election to represent Assembly District 64 and fill the seat that former Rep. Peter Barca, D-Kenosha, vacated to become state secretary of revenue. That was about four months after Gov. Tony Evers appointed Barca to be secretary of the Department of Revenue. Even though four months have gone by, Barca and the other Cabinet secretaries that Evers has appointed have yet to be confirmed by the state Senate. Despite the lack of confirmation, they are able to still do their jobs as they have since Evers took office on Jan. 7. But its a formality that Republicans should grant at least as a gesture to show they are willing to work with Democrats. When Barca was appointed as secretary of revenue, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, was among the first to congratulate him. Civil War veteran Lawrence Snyder was 18-years-old when he joined the Union Navy after civil war broke out in the United States. He would live another 81 years, becoming the last Civil War veteran buried in Juneau County. The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War will conduct a grave-side ceremony May 18 for Snyder. The ceremony includes a musket salute and the placing of a Last Soldier Marker on the veterans grave. Dave Daley, a member of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, said the group aims to honor the last Civil War soldier buried in Juneau County. A national veterans organization, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil Wars members are descendants of the Union soldiers who fought the Civil War. The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War has more than 6,000 members nationally. The group is holding the ceremony with help from local history and veterans groups. According to Daley, Snyder passed away Feb. 13, 1944, at the age of 99 at the home of his daughter in Wonewoc. Snyder was originally from Austria, but came to the United States of America at age 10 with his parents. State law requires K-12 students to show that they have received the required immunizations, though its also one of 17 states that grants an exemption for those who object to being immunized because of personal or moral beliefs. The percentage of Wisconsin children receiving at least one dose of the measles vaccine by 24 months has held steady at about 85 percent for the last six years, according to the state Department of Health Services. Between 85 and 95 percent of a population needs to be immunized in order to protect vulnerable populations and to keep diseases from spreading, experts say. For Wisconsin students, most have cleared the bar, Kinsey said. UHS encourages, but does not require, students to upload their immunization records on file for UHS staff to access in case of an outbreak. More than 90 percent of students do so, and the submitted records show about 90 percent of students are vaccinated, according to the most recent UHS data, which are a few years old. Chuck Norris will soon return to a popular bar in downtown Portage. Not the actor. The specialty burger. The city of Portage Legislative and Regulatory Committee on Monday all but gave a green light for local business owners Mark Bellmore and his daughter Kelly Bellmore to reopen the Corner Pocket. Barring a Common Council decision to vote against the committees recommendation, the Bellmores will be granted a Class B combination liquor license allowing them to serve alcohol at the establishment after a three-month closure. The Bellmore family ran the Corner Pocket for eight years before leasing the business to Kelly Vandermark in June. The business closed Feb. 9 amid disagreements between the former owners and the new operators. Mark Bellmore said his daughter will bring the business back to life. She does good food and a clean atmosphere. Itll be successful, he said. The Corner Pocket, located at 301 DeWitt St., is expected to reopen May 20. Information is taken from the records of the Portage Police Department and does not represent a comprehensive list of police activity. Each individual named in this report is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Between 8:33 a.m. on April 30 and 7:51 a.m. on May 7, police responded to 257 calls, including the following: East Conant Street: Police at 6:17 p.m. on May 1 arrested a 34-year-old Portage man on suspicion of domestic disorderly conduct, battery and bail jumping. East Edgewater Street: Police at 1:49 p.m. on May 2 responded to a report of a disorderly male subject at the Columbia County Clerk's office and arrested Matthew P. Schindler, 35, of Portage on suspicion of disorderly conduct, bail jumping and obstructing an officer. New Pinery Road: Police at 4:10 p.m. on May 2 cited Shannon L. Wagner for suspected shoplifting. East Conant Street: Police at 6:08 p.m. on May 2 arrested a 35-year-old Portage man on suspicion of domestic disorderly conduct. MONTELLO During an August storm, water rose quickly in the Grand River Marsh, carrying barn-sized mats of floating cattail and wood debris, which pushed against the dam with such force the gates malfunctioned. Those gates got damaged so that to this day, theyre inoperable, said Jeff Lang, a wildlife technician with the state Department of Natural Resources. As a result, anglers, waterfowl hunters and boaters will have reduced opportunities at the popular fishing spot in Green Lake County until next summer, according to a DNR news release. The Grand River dam, built in the 1960s, usually holds back some water at this time of year for release in late spring or summer, Lang said. But because the gates are broken, it cant slow the water flowing through, resulting in a much higher flow rate than usual, and tributaries that lead into the impoundment cant replace the water as quickly as it drains. At some point, the water level will have dropped so far that there really wont be any water out there to fish in, Lang said. E-Verify works. President Donald Trump should be touting it. Trump had the crowd roaring at his rally in Green Bay last month over his jabs at Democrats for opposing his immigration agenda. He proclaimed how quickly the immigration system could be fixed if only Democrats joined his side. I used to say in 45 minutes. Its really 15 minutes. Its so simple, but we need Democrats to vote on it. Otherwise we cant change it, Trump said. But all the Democratic support in Congress wont do much good if Trump himself isnt promoting effective policies. In particular, it makes little sense for Trump to rail against illegal immigration but then fail to enlist in his fight one of most powerful weapons in the governments arsenal for deterring illegal immigration, the federal database known as E-Verify. Many employers use this online network to confirm employees work status, but its use isnt mandatory except for in a handful of states. Trump should demand Congress take action to require all employers use E-Verify in all 50 states no exceptions. Boys & Girls Clubs across the country host local arts contests to select pieces that are than submitted to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Americas Regional Fine Arts Exhibit. This year, Boys & Girls Clubs of West-Central Wisconsin, Reedsburg site, was selected to host the Midwest exhibit. This means that submissions from club members from across the 13-state Midwest Region will be on display here in Reedsburg. The following companies are subsidiares of BlackRock: Acero Cooperatief U.A., Acero Holdings I B.V., Amethyst Merger Sub LLC, AnalytX Hosting LLC, AnalytX LLC, AnalytX Software LLC, Aperio, Aperio, Aquila Heywood, Asia-Pacific Private Credit Opportunities Fund I (GenPar) Ltd., BAA Holdings LLC, BFM Holdco LLC, BLK (Gallatin) Holdings LLC, BLK SMI LLC, BR Acquisition Mexico S.A. de C.V., BR Jersey International Holdings L.P., Beijing eFront Software Company Limited, BlackRock (Barbados) Finco 1 SRL, BlackRock (Channel Islands) Limited, BlackRock (Luxembourg) S.A., BlackRock (Netherlands) B.V., BlackRock (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock (Singapore) Holdco II Pte. Ltd., BlackRock (Singapore) Holdco Pte. Limited, BlackRock (Singapore) Limited, BlackRock AP Investment Holdco LLC, BlackRock Advisors (UK) Limited, BlackRock Advisors LLC, BlackRock Advisors Singapore Pte. Limited, BlackRock Alternative Advisors GP Holdings LLC, BlackRock Alternatives Management LLC, BlackRock Argentina Asesorias Ltda., BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited, BlackRock Asset Management Deutschland AG, BlackRock Asset Management International Inc., BlackRock Asset Management Investor Services Limited, BlackRock Asset Management Ireland Limited, BlackRock Asset Management North Asia Limited, BlackRock Asset Management Schweiz AG, BlackRock Asset Management UK Limited, BlackRock Australia Holdco Pty. Ltd., BlackRock Brasil Gestora de Investimentos Ltda., BlackRock Cal 1 Investor LLC, BlackRock Canada Holdings LP, BlackRock Canada Holdings ULC, BlackRock Capital Holdings Inc., BlackRock Capital Investment Advisors LLC, BlackRock Capital Management Inc., BlackRock Cayco Limited, BlackRock Cayman 1 LP, BlackRock Cayman Capital Holdings Limited, BlackRock Cayman Finco 2 Limited, BlackRock Cayman Finco 3 Limited, BlackRock Cayman Finco Limited, BlackRock Cayman West Bay Finco Limited, BlackRock Cayman West Bay IV Limited, BlackRock Cayman Z Limited, BlackRock Channel Islands Holdco Limited, BlackRock Chile Asesorias Limitada, BlackRock Colombia Holdco LLC, BlackRock Colombia Infraestructura S.A.S., BlackRock Colombia SAS, BlackRock Company Secretarial Services (UK) Limited, BlackRock Corporation US Inc., BlackRock Delaware Holdings Inc., BlackRock Enterprise Management Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock Europe Development Management Limited, BlackRock Execution Services, BlackRock Finance Europe Limited, BlackRock Financial Management Inc., BlackRock Finco LLC, BlackRock Finco UK Ltd., BlackRock First Partner Limited, BlackRock France SAS, BlackRock Fund Advisors, BlackRock Fund Management Company S.A., BlackRock Fund Managers Limited, BlackRock Funding International Ltd., BlackRock Funds Services Group LLC, BlackRock Germany GmBH, BlackRock Group Limited, BlackRock HK Holdco Limited, BlackRock Holdco 2 Inc., BlackRock Holdco 3 LLC, BlackRock Holdco 4 LLC, BlackRock Holdco 5 LLC, BlackRock Holdco 6 LLC, BlackRock Hungary Kft, BlackRock Index Services LLC, BlackRock Infrastructure Management I LLC, BlackRock Institutional Services Inc., BlackRock Institutional Trust Company National Association, BlackRock International Holdings Inc., BlackRock International Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Dublin) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Korea) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock Investment Management (Taiwan) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management (UK) Limited, BlackRock Investment Management Ireland Holdings Limited, BlackRock Investment Management LLC, BlackRock Investments LLC, BlackRock Japan Co. Ltd., BlackRock Japan Holdings GK, BlackRock Jersey Finco 2 Limited, BlackRock Latin America Holdco LLC, BlackRock Latin American Holdings B.V., BlackRock Life Limited, BlackRock Lux Finco S.a r.l., BlackRock Luxembourg Holdco S.a r.l., BlackRock Mexican Holdco B.V., BlackRock Mexico Infraestructura I S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Infraestructura II S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Infraestructura III S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Manager II S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Manager III S. de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Manager S de R.L. de C.V., BlackRock Mexico Operadora S.A. de C.V. Sociedad Operadora de Fondos de Inversion, BlackRock Mortgage Ventures LLC, BlackRock Niagara LLC, BlackRock Operations (Luxembourg) S.a r.l., BlackRock Overseas Investment Fund Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., BlackRock PC Holdings LLC, BlackRock Pensions Limited, BlackRock Peru Asesorias S.A., BlackRock Property Consulting (Beijing) Co. Ltd., BlackRock Property France S.a.r.l., BlackRock Property Lux S.a.r.l., BlackRock Property Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., BlackRock Realty Advisors Inc., BlackRock Saudi Arabia, BlackRock Scale Holdings LLC, BlackRock Services India Private Limited, BlackRock Singapore III Pte. Ltd., BlackRock Slovakia s.r.o., BlackRock Strategic Investors GP LLC, BlackRock Strategic Investors LP, BlackRock Trident Holding Company Limited, BlackRock UK (Alpha) Limited, BlackRock UK (Beta) Limited, BlackRock UK (Delta) LP, BlackRock UK (Gamma) Limited, BlackRock UK (Sigma) Limited, BlackRock UK 2 LLP, BlackRock UK 3 LLP, BlackRock UK 4 LLP, BlackRock UK A LLP, BlackRock UK Holdco 2 Limited, BlackRock UK Holdco Limited, Blackhawk Investment Holding LLC, CIE Automotive, Cachematrix Holdings, Cachematrix Holdings LLC, Cachematrix Integrations Private Limited, Cachematrix Software Solutions LLC, Cachematrix UK Limited, FutureAdvisor Inc., Glass Mountain Pipeline, Global Energy & Power Infrastructure Advisors LLC, Global Energy & Power Infrastructure II Advisors LLC, Grosvenor Alternate Partner Limited, Grosvenor Ventures Limited, HLX Financial Holdings LLC, MGPA (Bermuda) Limited, MGPA (Exec) Limited, MGPA Limited, Mercury Carry Company Ltd., Mercury Private Equity MUST 3 (Jersey) Limited, Object Capital Technology Inc., Phoenix Acquisition B.V., Phoenix Acquisitions Holdings LLC, Portfolio Administration & Management Ltd., Prestadora de Servicios Integrales BlackRock Mexico S.A. de C.V., SVOF/MM LLC, St. Albans House Nominees (Jersey) Ltd., State Street Research & Management, Tennenbaum Capital Partners LLC, Tennenbaum Capital Partners LLC, Tlali Acero S.A. de C.V. SOFOM ENR, Trident Merger LLC, eFront, eFront, eFront (Jersey) Limited, eFront DMLT Holdings LLC, eFront DMLT Holdings S.R.L, eFront DR S.R.L, eFront Do Brasil Solucoes Informaticas Para Sistemas Financeiros Ltda., eFront FZ-LLC, eFront Financial Solutions Inc., eFront GmbH, eFront Holding II SAS, eFront Holdings SAS, eFront Hong Kong Limited, eFront II SAS, eFront Kabushiki Kaisha, eFront Ltd, eFront SAS, eFront Singapore Pte. Ltd, eFront Software Luxembourg S.a r.l., eFront Solutions Financeieres Inc., eFront d.o.o. Beograd, iShares (DE) I Investmentaktiengesellschaft mit Teilgesellschaftsvermogen, and iShares Delaware Trust Sponsor LLC. iShares S&P 400 MidCap ETF's stock was trading at $158.41 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, IJH stock has increased by 75.8% and is now trading at $278.47. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Invesco BulletShares 2019 High Yield Corporate Bond ETF's stock was trading at $23.8950 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus (COVID-19) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, BSJJ stock has increased by 0.0% and is now trading at $23.8950. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Toyota Motor Corp. engages in the manufacture and sale of motor vehicles and parts. It operates through the following segments: Automotive, Financial Services, and All Other. The Automotive segment designs, manufactures, assembles and sells passenger cars, minivans, trucks, and related vehicle parts and accessories. It is also involved in the development of intelligent transport systems. The Financial Services segment offers purchase or lease financing to Toyota vehicle dealers and customers. It also provides retail leasing through lease contracts purchase by dealers. The All Others segment deals with the design and manufacture and sale of housing, telecommunications and other businesses. The company was founded by Kiichiro Toyoda on August 28, 1937 and is headquartered in Toyota, Japan. Read More Exchange Income Corporation engages in aerospace and aviation services and equipment, and manufacturing businesses worldwide. It operates through two segments, Aerospace & Aviation, and Manufacturing. The Aerospace & Aviation segment offers scheduled airline and charter services, and emergency medical services to communities located in Manitoba, Ontario, and Nunavut, as well as Newfoundland and Labrador, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. It also provides after-market aircraft, engines, and component parts to regional airline operators; designs, modifies, maintains, and operates custom sensor equipped aircraft; and offers maritime surveillance and support services in Canada, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. In addition, this segment provides pilot flight training services. The Manufacturing segment manufactures window wall systems primarily used in high-rise multi-family residential projects; stainless steel tanks, vessels, and processing equipment; heavy duty pressure washing and steam systems, commercial water recycling systems, and custom tanks for the transportation of oil, gasoline, and water products; precision parts and components primarily used in the aerospace and defense sector; electrical and control systems integrator focused on the agricultural material handling; and precision sheet metal and tubular products. This segment also focuses on the engineering, design, manufacture, and construction of communication infrastructure, as well as provision of technical services. Exchange Income Corporation is headquartered in Winnipeg, Canada. Read More 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. Read More iShares MSCI Canada ETF's stock was trading at $23.42 on March 11th, 2020 when Coronavirus reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, EWC shares have increased by 62.0% and is now trading at $37.95. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. 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. Magna International Inc. designs, engineers, and manufactures components, assemblies, systems, subsystems, and modules for original equipment manufacturers of vehicles and light trucks worldwide. The company operates through four segments: Body Exteriors & Structures, Power & Vision, Seating Systems, and Complete Vehicles. Its Body Exteriors & Structures segment provides body and chassis systems, as well as engineering and testing services; exterior systems, including fascia and trims, front end modules, front integration panels, liftgate modules, active aerodynamics, engineered glass, running boards, truck bed access products, and side doors; and roof systems, such as modular and textile folding roofs, and hard and soft tops. The company's Power & Vision segment offers dedicated hybrid, dual and e-clutch, and manual transmissions; engine drive plates and accessories; AWD/4WD products, rear drive modules, and hybrid and battery electric drive systems; transmission, engine, and driveline components; advanced driver assistance systems, camera systems, ultrasonic sensors, and electronic controllers; interior and exterior mirrors, actuators, door handles, overhead consoles, and camera monitoring systems; head, tail, and fog lamps; signal and other lighting products; and latching systems, door modules, window systems, power closure systems, hinges and wire forming, and handle assemblies. Its Seating Systems segment provides seat structures, mechanism and hardware solutions, and foam and trim products. The company's Complete Vehicles segment offers vehicle manufacturing and engineering services. It also designs, engineers, and manufactures tooling products. Magna International Inc. was founded in 1957 and is headquartered in Aurora, Canada. Read More Nuveen Ohio Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc. The fund is co-managed by Nuveen Fund Advisors LLC and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of Ohio. The fund invests in tax exempt municipal bonds. It employs fundamental analysis, with bottom-up stock picking approach, to create its portfolio. The fund benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against the Standard & Poor's Ohio Municipal Bond Index and Standard & Poor's National Municipal Bond Index. The fund was formerly known as Nuveen Ohio Quality Income Municipal Fund. Nuveen Ohio Quality Municipal Income Fund was formed on October 17, 1991 and is domiciled in the United States. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Roper Technologies: 3089554 Nova Scotia ULC, AC Analytical Controls B.V., AC Analytical Controls Holding B.V., AC Analytical Controls Services B.V., Acumen PM LLC, Aderant Canada Company, Aderant Company, Aderant Holdings Inc., Aderant International Holdings Inc., Aderant Legal (UK) Limited, Aderant Legal Holdings (AUS) Pty Ltd, Aderant Legal Holdings (NZ) ULC, Aderant Legal Holdings Inc., Aderant North America Inc., Aderant Parent Holdings Inc., Advanced Sensors Limited, Alpha Holdings of Delaware I LLC, Alpha Holdings of Delaware II LLC, Alpha Technologies B.V., Alpha Technologies GmbH, Alpha Technologies Japan LLC, Alpha Technologies Services LLC, Alpha Technologies U.K., Alpha Technologies s.r.o., Alpha Trust Corporation, Alpha UK Holdings LLC, Amot Controls Corporation, Amot Controls GmbH, Amot/Metrix Investment Company Inc., Amphire Solutions Inc., Amtech Systems (Hong Kong) Limited, Amtech Systems LLC, Amtech World Corporation, Aplifi Inc., Ascension Technology Corporation, Assureweb Limited, Atlantic Health Partners Inc., Avitru LLC, Axium Holdco Inc., C/S Solutions Inc., CBORD Holdings Corp., CIVCO Medical Solutions B.V., Centurion Research Solutions LLC, Civco Holding Inc., Civco Medical Instruments Co. Inc., CliniSys Group, CliniSys Group Limited, Clinisys Scotland Limited, Clinisys Solutions Limited, Cointec Ingenieros y Consultores S.L., Compressor Controls (Beijing) Corporation Ltd., Compressor Controls Corporation B.V., Compressor Controls Corporation Middle East, Compressor Controls Corporation S.r.l., Compressor Controls LLC, Compressor Controls Mauritius Ltd., Compressor Controls Pty Ltd., Compressor Controls Saudi Arabia LLC, ConstructConnect, ConstructConnect Canada Inc., ConstructConnect Inc., Cornell Pump Company, DAT Solutions LLC, DATSolutions Private Limited, DCMH Group Holdings Inc., DCMH Group Holdings LLC, DCMH Holdings Inc., DI Acquisition Subsidiary Inc., DI Dutch Holdings LLC, DI Hong Kong Limited, Dash I Inc., Data Innovations, Data Innovations Canada Ltd., Data Innovations Cooperatief U.A., Data Innovations Europe S.A., Data Innovations LLC, Data Innovations Latin America Ltda, Dawning Technologies LLC, Deltek, Deltek Ajera Inc., Deltek Asia Pacific (HK) Limited, Deltek Australia Pty Ltd., Deltek Danmark A/S, Deltek France SAS, Deltek GB Limited, Deltek GmbH, Deltek Inc., Deltek Nederland B.V., Deltek Netherlands B.V., Deltek Norge AS, Deltek Sverige AB, Deltek Systems (Canada) Inc., Deltek Systems (Colorado) Inc., Deltek Systems (Philippines) Ltd., Deltek WST LLC, Dominion I Inc., Dynamic Instruments Inc., Dynisco Enterprises GmbH, Dynisco Enterprises LLC, Dynisco Europe GmbH, Dynisco Holding GmbH, Dynisco Hong Kong Holdings Limited, Dynisco Instruments LLC, Dynisco Instruments S.a.r.l., Dynisco LLC, Dynisco Parent Inc., Dynisco S.r.l., Dynisco Viatran LLC, Dynisco Viatran (M) Sdn Bhd, Dynisco-Viatran Instrument Sdn Bhd, FMS Purchasing & Services Inc., FSI Holdings Inc., FTI Flow Technology Inc., Fluid Metering Inc., Foodlink Holdings Inc., Foodlink IT India Private Limited, Foundry, Foundry Visionmongers (Ireland) Limited, GeneInsight Inc., Getloaded Corporation, HRsmart Canada Inc., HRsmart Czech Republic, HRsmart France SAS, HRsmart Germany GmbH, HRsmart Inc., HRsmart International, HRsmart International Holdings LLC, HRsmart Mexico, HRsmart SA (Pty) Ltd., HRsmart Talent Management Solutions Europe Limited, HRsmart Ventures LLC, Handshake Software Inc., Hansco Automatisering B.V., Hansen Technologies Corporation, Harbour Holding Corp., Hardy Process Solutions, Horizon Software International LLC, INPUT Inc., IPA Acquisition Subsidiary Inc., ISL Finance SAS, ISL Holding SAS, ISL Scientifique de Laboratorie - ISL S.A.S., IT Canada Holdings LLC, Innovative Product Achievements LLC, Inovonics Corporation, Instill Corporation, IntelliTrans Limited, Intellitrans Canada Ltd., Intellitrans LLC, Intellitrans Sweden AB, Job Access LTDA, K/S Roper Holding, K/S Roper Investments, Laser App Inc., Link Logistics Holding LLC, Loadlink Technologies Corporation, Logitech Limited, MED Professional Services LLC, MEDTEC Inc., MHA Long Term Care Network Inc., MHA Long Term Care Services Inc., MIPS Austria GesmbH, MIPS CZ s.r.o, MIPS Deutschland GmbH, MIPS France Sarl, MIPS Nederland B.V., MIPS Schweiz AG, MIPS Software Iberica SL, MPR Readers Inc., Managed Health Care Associates Inc., Marumoto Struers K.K., Medical Information Professional Systems NV, Medina Acquisition LLC, Metrix Instrument Co. L.P., NDI Europe GmbH, Navigator Group Purchasing Inc., Neptune Technology Group (Canada) Co., Neptune Technology Group Inc., Neptune Technology Group Mexico S.de R.L. de C.V., Neptune Technology Group Mexico Services S. de R.L. de C.V., Neptune Technology Group Services Inc., Nippon Roper K.K., Northern Digital Inc., Off-Campus Advantage LLC, Omega Legal Systems Inc., PAC (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., PAC Denmark ApS, PAC GmbH, PAC Instruments (Thailand) Company Limited, PAC Instruments Asia PTE. Ltd., PB Bidco Limited, PB Holdco Limited, PB Midco Limited, PB Topco Limited, PGP UK Limited, Petroleum Analyzer Company L.P., Phase Analyzer Company Ltd., PowerPlan, PowerPlan Canada ULC, PowerPlan Holdings Inc., PowerPlan Inc., PowerPlan Intermediate Holdings Inc., PowerPlan Operations ANZ Pty Ltd, PowerPlan Operations Ltd., Project Diamond Intermediate Holdings Corporation, Project Torque Intermediate Holdings Inc., Project Viking Holdings Inc., Project Viking Intermediate LLC, QSC 1208 Limited, QSC 1209 Limited, RF IDeas, RF IDeas Inc., RI Marketing India Private Limited, RIL Holding Limited, RMT Inc., RT Merger Sub Inc., Rebate Tracking Group LLC, Resonant Software Inc., Roda Deaco Valve Inc., Roper Acquisitions Holdings Inc., Roper Brasil Comercio E Promocao De Productos E Servicos LTDA, Roper Canada Holdings LP, Roper Canada UK Limited, Roper Denmark UK Limited, Roper EUR Pte. Ltd., Roper Engineering s.r.o., Roper Europe GmbH, Roper GM Denmark Holdings ApS, Roper Germany GmbH, Roper Germany GmbH & Co. KG, Roper Holdings LLC, Roper Holdings Limited, Roper IH LLC, Roper Industrial Products Investment Company, Roper Industries Denmark ApS, Roper Industries Deutschland GmbH, Roper Industries Inc., Roper Industries Limited, Roper Industries Manufacturing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Roper Industries Mauritius Ltd., Roper Industries UK Limited, Roper International Holding Inc., Roper International Holding Limited, Roper International Holding SCS, Roper LLC, Roper Luxembourg Finance S.a.r.l., Roper Luxembourg Holdings S.a.r.l., Roper Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Roper Middle East Ltd., Roper NL1 UK Limited, Roper NL2 UK Limited, Roper Pte. Ltd., Roper Pump Company, Roper Scientific B.V., Roper Scientific SAS, Roper Scot LP, Roper Southeast Asia LLC, Roper Swiss Finance GmbH, Roper UK Investments Limited, Roper UK Ltd., Roper US Finance I LLC, Roper US Finance II LLC, Roper-Mex L.P., Ropintassco 1 LLC, Ropintassco 2 LLC, Ropintassco 3 LLC, Ropintassco 4 LLC, Ropintassco 5 LLC, Ropintassco 6 LLC, Ropintassco 7 LLC, Ropintassco Holdings L.P., SHP Group Holdings Inc., SIRA LLC, Shanghai Roper Industries Trading Co. Ltd., Sinmed Holding International B.V., Societe de Distribution de Logiciels Medicaux, SoftWriters Inc., Softwriters Holdings, Softwriters Holdings Inc., Sohnar Pty Ltd, Star Purchasing Services LLC, Strata Acquisition Subsidiary Inc., Strata Decision Technology LLC, Strata Parallel II Inc., Strategic Healthcare Programs Blocker 2 Inc., Strategic Healthcare Programs Blocker LLC, Strategic Healthcare Programs Holdings LLC, Strategic Healthcare Programs L.L.C., Struers (Shanghai) International Trading Ltd., Struers A/S, Struers GmbH, Struers Inc., Struers Limited, Struers SAS, Student Advantage LLC, Sunquest Europe Limited, Sunquest Holdings Inc., Sunquest Information Systems (Europe) Limited, Sunquest Information Systems (India) Private Limited, Sunquest Information Systems (International) Limited, Sunquest Information Systems Inc., Sunquest Information Systems Pty Ltd, TLP Holdings LLC, Technolog Group Limited, Technolog Holdings Ltd., Technolog Limited, Technolog SARL, The CBORD Group Inc., The Foundry Bidco Limited, The Foundry Bidco No.2 Limited, The Foundry Holdco Limited, The Foundry Holdings Limited, The Foundry Intermediate Holdings Limited, The Foundry Midco 3 Limited, The Foundry Midco No 1 Limited, The Foundry Midco No 2 Limited, The Foundry Topco Limited, The Foundry Topco No.2 Limited, The Foundry USCo Inc., The Foundry Visionmongers Ltd., The Tidewater Healthcare Shared Services Group Inc., The Washington Management Group Inc., Torque Acquisition Holdco Inc., Transcore Atlantic Inc., Transcore CNUS Inc., Transcore Holdings Inc., Transcore ITS LLC, Transcore LP, Transcore Nova Scotia Corporation, Transcore Partners LLC, Trinity Integrated Systems Limited, UHF Purchasing Services LLC, Union Square Software (International) Limited, Union Square Software Inc., Union Square Software Limited, Union Square Software Pty, Uson L.P., Uson Limited, Utilitec Limited, Utilitec Services Limited, Utility Data Services Limited, Verathon Holdings (Delaware) Inc., Verathon Inc., Verathon Medical (Australia) Pty Limited, Verathon Medical (Canada) ULC, Verathon Medical (Europe) B.V., Verathon Medical (France) SARL, Verathon Medical (Hong Kong) Limited, Verathon Medical (Japan) K.K., Verathon Medical (UK) Ltd., Vertafore, Vertafore Canada Inc., Vertafore Inc., Vertafore India Private Limited, Viastar Services LP, Viatran Corporation, Walter Herzog GmbH, WorkBook APAC Ltd., Workbook Software A/S, Zetec (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Zetec France, Zetec Inc., Zetec Korea Inc., Zetec Rental LLC, Zetec Services Inc., iPipeline, iPipeline (TCP) Limited, iPipeline Canada Inc, iPipeline Co. Ltd., iPipeline Holdings Inc, iPipeline Inc, iPipeline Limited, iSqFt Holdings Inc., iSqFt Parent Corporation, iSqFt Sub Inc., iTradeNetwork Inc., and mySBX Corporation. Total Energy Services Inc. provides various products and services to the oil and natural gas industry primarily in Canada, the United States, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Contract Drilling Services, Rentals and Transportation Services, Compression and Process Services and Well Servicing. The Contract Drilling Services segment offers contract drilling services to oil and gas exploration and development companies. As of December 31, 2020, it operated a total fleet of 98 drilling rigs. The Rentals and Transportation Services segment provides drilling, completion and production rental equipment, and oilfield transportation services in western Canada and in the United States. This segment owned and operated a fleet of 87 heavy trucks. The Compression and Process Services segment offers gas compression services; and designs and packages skid style compressors and proprietary trailer-mounted compressors under the NOMAD brand in Canada and the United States, the European Union, Australia, and Mexico. It had 54,800 horsepower of compression in its rental fleet. The Well Servicing segment offers well services. This segment operated a total fleet of 83 well servicing rigs across Western Canada, mid-western United States, and Australia. It has a strategic alliance with Pason Systems Inc. to develop and deploy drilling automation and optimization technologies. The company was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Read More iShares Russell 2000 ETF's stock was trading at $125.92 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, IWM shares have increased by 76.3% and is now trading at $222.04. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. 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.. BT Group plc provides communications services worldwide. Its Consumer segment sells telephones, baby monitors, and Wi-Fi extenders through high street retailers, online BT Shop, and Website BT.com; and offers home phone, copper and fiber broadband, TV, and mobile services in various packages. The company's EE segment offers 2G, 3G, and 4G mobile network services; broadband, fixed-voice, and TV services; and postpaid and prepaid plans, and emergency services network. This segment also sells 4G mobile phones, tablets, connected devices, and mobile broadband devices from various manufacturers. Its Business and Public Sector segment provides fixed voice, mobility, fiber and connectivity, and networked IT services to retailers, utilities, public sector, healthcare, sports, construction, finance, and educational sectors. The company's Global Services segment offers business communications and ICT services comprising BT Connect, BT Security, BT One, BT Contact, BT Compute, BT Advise, and BT for financial markets. This segment serves approximately 5,500 customers in 180 countries. Its Wholesale and Ventures segment enables communications providers and other organizations to provide fixed or mobile phone services. Its ventures provide mass-market services, such as directory enquiries and payphones; and enterprise services comprising BT Fleet and BT Redcare. This segment also provides broadband and Ethernet, voice, hosted communication, mobile virtual network operator, managed solutions, machine-to-machine, roaming, and media services. The company's Openreach segment engages in the provision of services over the local access network; and installation and maintenance of fiber and copper communications networks that connect homes and businesses. The company was formerly known as Newgate Telecommunications Limited and changed its name to BT Group plc in September 2001. BT Group plc was incorporated in 2001 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom. Read More Shenandoah, IA (51601) Today Cloudy with periods of rain. Low 27F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Cloudy with periods of rain. Low 27F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. SYRACUSE, N.Y.-- A unique van is hitting the roads...one that's a part of Governor Cuomo's "no excuses, get screened" initiative. Upstate Hospital's Community Campus in Syracuse held a ribbon cutting earlier today for the latest addition to the medical center's outreach program, a mammogram van! Upstate has been awarded a grant from the New York State Department of Health to purchase the mobile mammography unit that offers on-site breast cancer screening. The van uses the latest 3D technology and can perform up to 20 exams in one day. It takes approximately 20 minutes for one appointment. Patients then get their results within 2 to 10 business days by mail. The van will serve Oneida, Madison, Herkimer, Onondaga, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties. Women over 40 with an average breast cancer risk should get a mammogram once a year. The push to offer screenings started in the 1990s, and since then deaths from breast cancer have dropped, thirty-percent. You can call 315-492-3353 or visit http://www.upstate.edu/mobile-mammography/ to schedule an appointment. Herkimer, N.Y. - If you have an outstanding ticket from the Village of Herkimer, you may be in luck, at least a little bit of luck. The Herkimer Village Board has approved a Parking Ticket Amnesty Period from today, May 7th, until June 30th. The village will grant amnesty of any late fees on parking tickets and will accept the original fines for tickets issued prior to May 7th. The village will then actively step up the booting and towing away of vehicles with overdue fines immediately after the amnesty program concludes. Payments of fines can be made at the Herkimer Village Municipal Hall or mailed to the Village Office at 120 Green Street, Herkimer NY 13350. If mailed, it must be postmarked no later than June 30th, 2019. UTICA, N.Y. -- Wednesday, Mayor Rob Palmieri unveiled Uticas Parks and Recreation master plan. The city has been working on this master plan for several years now. Palmieri says this plan was created to help guide the future of the city with 17 parks, Utica has the second largest park system in Upstate New York. Wednesday, the mayor announced his master plan at Wankel Playground in South Utica. He says the city of Utica has invested in developing a plan to improve the parks, trails, and recreation facilities in the community. The city was awarded $250,000 from Governor Andrew Cuomos financial restructuring initiative to make this master plan possible. Included in the plan is further development of all 17 parks as well as development of the trail system within the park system and throughout the city of Utica. Palmieri says parks are a valuable community resource and improvements to the parks will help with the development of the city. "The quality of life that the parks bring is really the economic development, people want to live where there is parks that as we look around, people are using them, your kids, your adults, your grandparents. What was acceptable years ago is no longer acceptable. We have to change; we have to adapt. And again, one thing I think we have that everyone talks about is a great park system, Palmieri said. The next step is for the common council to approve this master plan before construction can start. And if the council does approve of the plan, the mayor says Wankel Playground will be the first park to change and is hoping construction can start within the next month. Now its in the hands of the members of the Common Council, and hopefully look for an adoption of this so we can look forward, but make it very clear, when youre competing for funding, unless you have a blueprint, which is a master plan it makes it very difficult," Palmieri said. "Now that we have a master plan, the ability to go after grants and be awarded grants will be much easier. The final draft of this plan is on the citys website. Click here for updates on this story HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. (KMGH) -- An 18-year-old male student was killed, multiple others injured and two suspects were in custody in the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. The victims' names have not been released. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the suspects a juvenile and an adult were believed to be students at the school. Spurlock said there were no other suspects in the case, but authorities were still investigating at the scene. According to a source with knowledge of the investigation, one of the suspects is an 18-year-old senior who was a student at the school. According to a criminal background check, his only prior run-ins with the law include citations for careless driving and driving an unsafe vehicle. A source told Denver7 that investigators were using a bomb robot near one of the suspect's vehicles because tactical gear was found inside. Authorities had found the vehicle in the parking lot of the school and were working to obtain search warrants for the car and the suspects' homes. At 6:30 p.m., law enforcement officers were at a home believed to be linked to the 18-year-old suspect, near West Highlands Ranch Parkway and West Wildcat Reserve Parkway in Highlands Ranch. Spurlock said eight students were injured in the shooting and they were all 15 and older. Two of the victims were in serious condition at Littleton Adventist Hospital, officials said, and three had been released from the hospital. One victim was in good condition at Children's Hospital. Two other victims were at Sky Ridge Medical Center and listed as "stable," but their conditions were unclear. Spurlock said the suspects walked into the building, "got deep inside the school" and shot at students at two separate locations. The shooting was reported shortly before 2 p.m., and deputies arrived about two minutes later and engaged the suspects, taking them into custody, Spurlock said. "I believe the quick response of officers helped save lives," Spurlock said. "A quick response eliminates a lot of this issue right off the bat." The STEM school, which has about 1,800 students from kindergarten through high school, is located off South Ridgeline Road and Plaza Drive in Highlands Ranch. The school did not have a School Resource Officer assigned to the building, but it did have private security, Spurlock said. Department of Homeland Security, FBI and ATF agents also responded to the school to help with the investigation. The school was placed on lockdown after the shooting, and parents were being directed to meet their children at Northridge Rec Center at 8800 S. Broadway. Kelley Paulson, the mother of two students at STEM School Highlands Ranch, spoke to Denver7 about what she knows about the shooting and said she was still waiting to hear about one of her children. "I got a text from a friend who was actually in there," Paulson said. "She said 'guns, shooting, oh my god, oh my god.' And she could hear them and that's how I first knew. The next thing I know, I heard my son, who is calling me because all of the kids who were in middle school...all immediately ran out of the building." Paulson's son, Christian, said he was in study hall at the school when he saw "a bunch of kids running out and saying 'School shooter, school shooter!'" "And I'm like, what? Is this real or fake? And then I just went after them," Christian Paulson said. "And apparently, this is all real. And I tried to run with my life, but I'm out of breath." President Donald Trump had been briefed on the shooting, and the White House was in contact with Colorado officials. Our prayers are with the victims, family members, and all those affected by todays shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Littleton, Colorado," White House Deputy Press Secretary Judd Deere said. "Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence." Sen. Cory Gardner released a statement, saying he was "heartbroken by the horrific and senseless acts of violence today" at the STEM school. "The safety and comfort of our schools should never be taken away," Gardner said. Please note: This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform. WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) Global defense and security company Saab announced plans Wednesday to locate a new U.S. manufacturing operation in Discovery Park District Aerospace on the west side of the Purdue University campus. The new location will support the production of the U.S. Air Forces next-generation T-X jet trainer and create up to 300 new jobs, with hiring starting in 2020. The initial focus for the West Lafayette, Indiana site will be aeronautical engineering; producing major structural sections and final assembly of the Saab parts of the T-X advanced jet trainer, developed by Boeing and Saab for the United States Air Force The initial focus for the West Lafayette, Indiana site will be aeronautical engineering; producing major structural sections and final assembly of the Saab parts of the T-X advanced jet trainer, developed by Boeing and Saab for the United States Air Force According to a Purdue press release, the expansion is a fundamental part of the companys strategy to grow its U.S. industrial and technology base. Saab also will collaborate with Purdue University to expand Saabs U.S.-based research and development within possible areas such as sensor systems, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. "This is a proud and patriotic day for every Hoosier and every Swede," said Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb. Governor Holcomb and Purdue President Mitch Daniels welcomed the Swedish company to the Hoosier state. Governor Holcomb said in his speech that it's about the best working with the best. "You don't get a day more special than today," he said. "The only day that will be more special than today will be everyday hereafter as we continue to grow together with the best." This addition of Saab to the state is a big move forward for the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, an organization first started by then Governor Mitch Daniels in 2005. Daniels said in his speech that he is proud of how his second successor has driven economic development in Indiana. Indiana has long been a national leader in manufacturing, and todays announcement demonstrates how the Hoosier state continues playing a key role in propelling the industry forward by attracting investment from around the globe, said Governor Holcomb. Saabs decision to fuel its United States growth in West Lafayette is a testament to the states pro-growth business climate, strong aviation and defense sectors, and commitment to fostering innovation by collaborating with our renowned universities and businesses to solve 21st-century challenges. "Saab is in West Lafayette to stay and we look forward to being a part of this integrated ecosystem," said Hakan Buskhe, President and CEO of Saab. The Stockholm-based company will invest $37 million to locate and build an Indiana-based workforce in West Lafayette. Buskhe said they liked what they saw when they came to Indiana. "It felt a little bit like home here when we were visiting," he said. "The ecosystem with the university and also the willingness from the governor and the state to push business, that was the tipping point for us to choose West Lafayette." The facility will do the final assembly of the T-X advanced jet trainer, which is a plane developed by Boeing and Saab for the United States Air Force. Buskhe said it's imperative that they get production up and running by the end of 2020. President Daniels hopes it will continue to bring the best and brightest to Purdue. Purdues strong history in aircraft research and development makes Saabs choice a natural fit, said Purdue President Mitch Daniels. But the even tighter fit is with our Discovery Park District concept. Saabs investment will bring more cutting-edge research partnerships for our faculty, more high-value employment and internship opportunities for our graduates, and more jobs and economic vitality for our neighbors. He added later, "We are building a climate here that is irresistibly attractive to the best scholars, best students and future Saabs." JUST IN: @Saab announces a manufacturing plant to produce Boeing T-X fighters is coming to #Purdue. Will create 300 jobs & will open in 2020. SAAB is in West Lafayette to stay. @WLFI @LifeAtPurdue @PurdueUnivNews @GLCommerce @AnnaDarlingTV pic.twitter.com/OKppz8bUwl Trevor Peters (@TrevorPetersTV) May 8, 2019 Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. China has the world's largest population of about 1.42 billion people. It is only rivaled by India (1.36 billion), and at the current growth rates, India will surpass China as the most populous country by 2030. The Chinese population may vary depending on whether the autonomous territories are included in the data or not. Taiwan claims independence although China considers it an autonomous province. Hong Kong and Macau are special administrative areas with distinct legislative, executive, and judicial systems. The following are the most populous provinces of China. Chinese Provinces by Population Guangdong Guangdong is the most populous province in China with an estimated population of 111 million as of 2018. The province's population is slightly bigger than the Philippines. About 30 million individuals are considered a "floating population" consisting of immigrants, students, and laborers who are not permanent settlers. If Guangdong were an independent state, it would rank among the 20 most populous countries ahead of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Shandong Shandong is the second most populous province with a population of 100 million and the 19th largest by area covering an estimated 60,700 square miles. About 99% of the population consists of the Han Chinese while the minorities are the Manchus and the Hui. The province has the tallest population of citizens in the country with males averaging 5ft 9.4 inches and 5 ft 5 inches for females. Henan Henan is the third most populous province with a population of about 94 million. It is the 17th largest with an area of 64,500 square miles. If Henan were a country, it would be the 12th most populous. If the population of temporary laborers and immigrants is considered, then the population of Henan rises to about 103 million people. About 99% of the population consists of the Han while the Manchus and the Mongols are the minority. Sichuan Sichuan has a population of 83 million and an area of 187,700 square miles. About 95% of the population is Han Chinese while the minority are Tibetan, Qiang, Nakhi, and Yi. The population of the province is slightly larger to that of Germany. Sichuan is the agricultural basket of China, and a large percentage of the population works in the agricultural sector. Population Control in China The demographics of China has been a hot political issue; in the 20th century, the population grew so fast that the government introduced population control measures (one-child policy). The policy rewarded couples for having a single child with better houses, free education and healthcare, and cash bonuses. The birth rate dropped from 2.1 to about 1.4 children per woman. The policy was met with resistance especially in the rural areas as women avoided giving birth in hospitals and families lied in population censuses resulting in skewed data. The government ended the policy in 2016 after experts warned that the country was at risk of losing a generation to replace the aging population. The Italian Riviera is a stretch of coastline famous for its spectacular seaside and scenery. The Italian Rivera has a world-renowned regional cuisine and is mostly covered with colorful homes which make the region highly attractive and a popular tourist area. Where is the Italian Riviera? The Italian Rivera is situated in the northwest corner of Italy. This destination makes Italy one of the most visited countries in the world, especially during the summer. Located in the northwestern corner of Italy, the Italian Riviera occupies some parts of the Liguria region. This coastline originates from the Italian French-border stretching along the Ligurian Sea to the Tuscan border. The Italian Riviera can also be termed as the constricted coastline strip lying between the Ligurian Sea and the Maritime Alps. The Italian Rivera covers a bigger percentage of the Liguria coastline, almost the entire coastline. The Italian Riviera is divided into two sections, which are called the Riviera di Ponente and Riviera di Levante. The Riviera di Ponente is the western side of the Italian Riviera and the region extends from Genoa all the way to the French border. On the other hand, Riviera di Levante is the region between Capo Corvo and Genoa. The Italian Riviera is characterized by a mild climate, coupled with its relaxed way of life. The Italian Riviera also hosts some of the most famous old fishing ports. Some of the popular villages in this region that are recognized internationally include; Portofino, Lerci, Cinque Terre, and Bordighera. Events and Festivals Apart from being a popular tourist site, the Italian Riviera hosts multiple events and festivals. The Genoa International Boat Show is one of the notable events held in this region. This event takes place mostly in the month of October and is one of the worlds premier boat shows. The Genoa International Boat Show is organized annually by the Fiera di Genova SpA and UCINA. The Festival della Scienza was launched in 2003 and has gained popularity. Best Time to Visit the Italian Rivera The Italian Riviera records the highest number of visitors during the summer. However, tourists can also visit during other periods as the region offers a variety of activities throughout the year. The winter season is perfect for visitors who are interested in exploring the stunning parks and museums of the Italian Riviera. Being a coastline, the Italian Riviera is composed of multiple destinations points. Some of the most recognized destinations along the Italian Riviera include: Alassio, Savona, Portofino, Ligure, Cinque Terre, and Genoa. Actress Pamela Anderson and WikiLeaks editor-in-chief Kristinn Hrafnsson met Julian Assange at Britains Belmarsh Prison yesterday. His first personal visitors since being imprisoned nearly one month ago, they issued a strong appeal for public support. Emerging from the maximum-security prison, visibly shocked and angered, Anderson and Hrafnsson addressed the media. Their statements were a searing indictment of state criminality and lawlessness on the part of the British and US governments. Hrafnsson said, It is for me, shocking to see my friendan intellectual, a publisher, a journalist, a man that has transformed the world of journalism with his worksitting in a high security prison, spending 23 hours a day in a cell, having half an hour outdoors if weather allows and half an hour to do everything else. This is not justice. This is an abomination. He continued, Someone said that you could judge the civilisation of a society by visiting its prisons and frankly, I have to say from my heart, that this visit did not reflect well on the society here. Anderson condemned the state persecution of her friend as a misrule of law in operation. Pamela Anderson and Kristinn Hrafnsson, Credit: Pamela Anderson Foundation Constantly derided by corporate and state media outlets, Anderson stood head and shoulders above her detractors. Obviously its been very difficult to see Julian here and to make our way through the prison. To get to him was quite shocking and difficult. He does not deserve to be in a supermax prison. He has never committed a violent act, hes an innocent person. She described Assanges near total isolation, Hes really cut off from everybody, he hasnt been able to speak to his children and public support is very important. Anderson urged supporters to write to Assange in prison to show their support and give him strength. While at times visibly upset, Anderson spoke with dignity and determination, He needs all the support he can get. Justice will depend on public support ... we have to keep fighting because its unfair, hes sacrificed so much to bring the truth out and we deserve the truth. Asked by reporters what condition Assange was in, Hrafnsson explained he had already suffered years of arbitrary detention. Over the previous year, Assange had been held in total isolation in Ecuadors embassy, being harassed everyday to make his life a misery. He had lost weight, but his spirit was still strong. Asked about conditions for Assange inside the prison, Hrafnsson replied, What is it like for anybody to be in Belmarsh Prison? Especially when you are there because another country demands your extradition for journalistic activity. Its outrageous. Hrafnsson explained that as a result of Assange's solitary confinement in a supermax jail, "He has not been able to properly prepare his case, which is of course the most important fight, against his extradition to the United States." Despite the wall of disinformation, lies and slander directed against Assange, support for the WikiLeaks publisher is growing. A poll conducted this week by Americas MSNBC asking, Should Julian Assange be prosecuted for his involvement with WikiLeaks? found 95 percent of respondents answering No, he is a whistleblower and deserves protection. In Australia, a 60 Minutes poll published on April 28, found 85 percent opposed his extradition to the United States, favouring calls to bring him home. A petition calling on the Australian government to defend Assange has attained more than 136,000 signatures. Anderson said that she and Hrafnsson conveyed an important message to Assange: We told him about our feeling that there is growing support among the general public and the population, and he was heartened to hear that and that gives him added strength. Asked how concerned Assange was about the possibility of extradition and a long prison sentence in the US, Anderson replied bluntly: We need to save his life. Thats how serious it is. The public statements of Anderson and Hrafnsson underscore the importance of building the broadest support throughout the working class, among students, young people and the most principled intellectuals and artists to demand freedom for Assange and whistleblower Chelsea Manning, currently being held in a jail in the US for refusing to testify before a grand jury against the WikiLeaks founder. Send letters of support to Julian Assange Mr Julian Assange DOB: 3/07/1971 HMP Belmarsh Western Way London SE28 0EB UK (You must write your return address on the back of the envelope or it will not be delivered. You must include his date of birth in the address as above.) The Socialist Equality Party urges the largest possible attendance at this Sundays public meeting in London. Public meeting details Free Julian Assange and Chelsea Manning! Sunday, May 12 (Doors open 1:30 p.m. Start time 2 p.m.) YMCA Indian Student Hostel Mahatma Gandhi Hall 41 Fitzroy Square London, W1T 6AQ Speakers: Chris MarsdenSocialist Equality Party (UK) National Secretary Ulrich Rippertchairman of the Socialist Equality Party (Germany) Oscar GrenfellSocialist Equality Party (Australia) Emmy ButlinJulian Assange Defence Committee Get tickets here Facebook event page US aerospace giant Boeing released a statement Sunday attempting to whitewash its culpability in two deadly airplane crashes involving the companys new 737 Max 8 aircraft. The statement was released more than six months after the crash of Lion Air Flight 610, which killed 189 people, and nearly two months after the crash of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, which killed a further 157 people, for a total of 346 men, women and children. The statement, which confirms a Wall Street Journal report published six days earlier, reveals that Boeing realized within several months after beginning 737 MAX deliveries in 2017 that its angle of attack disagree alert did not work on Max 8 planes unless those planes were equipped with a safety upgrade package that cost airline companies an additional fee to install. Boeing told neither the airlines, nor the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), nor any other regulatory agency about this problem until after last Octobers Lion Air crash. Investigators have concluded that in both crashes a malfunctioning angle of attack indicator, whose readings disagreed radically with a second AoA indicator on the planes, triggered an automated anti-stall system, which repeatedly pushed the aircraft nose downward, overriding desperate attempts by the pilots to lift the nose and restabilize the flight. The Lion Air plane crashed 13 minutes after takeoff from Jakarta and the Ethiopian Airlines flight plunged to earth just six minutes after takeoff from Addis Ababa. The Wall Street Journal article implied that Boeing deliberately restricted the AoA disagree alert, a standard feature on earlier 737 models, to aircraft with the supplemental safety upgrade, but the company in its statement on Sunday said it had intended the warning to function on all 737 Maxes, but discovered that it did not work on planes without the upgrade only after the new planes were in service. It attributed the flaw to a software problem. However, it acknowledged that it never informed the carriers, including Southwest in the US and Lion Air in Indonesia, that the AoA disagree alert did not work on their 737 Max 8s. Moreover, the manual it supplied to the carriers presented the alert as functioning on all of the aircraft. This means that scores of 737 Max 8s were flying around the world for months, carrying thousands of passengers, without their pilots being aware that in the event of a disagreement between the readings of the two AoA sensors, the warning light would not go on. The absence of an AoA disagree alert on the Max model is particularly dangerous because, unlike the earlier versions, on the Max model, with its automated MCAS anti-stall system, such a malfunction can suddenly pitch the planes nose downward. The preliminary report released last month on the Ethiopian Airlines crash stated that it took more than four minutes for the pilots to realize that incorrect data from one of the AoA sensors was prompting MCAS to push the jets nose down. In its statement, Boeing downplayed the importance of the AoA disagree indicator, saying it did not inform the airlines or the FAA about the problem until after the Lion Air crash because it did not consider the alert to be necessary for the safe operation of the airplane. The latest revelation and Boeings acknowledgement, notwithstanding the companys efforts at cover-up and damage control, provide further evidence of colossal and likely criminal negligence, if not even more serious crimes. They also underscore the corrupt and incestuous relationship between the nominal regulator, the FAA, and the corporations it supposedly regulates. In fact, since 2005, the FAA has allowed Boeing, the largest US-based producer of commercial aircraft and the worlds second biggest defense contractor, to appoint its own employees to certify the safety of its planesa program that was reauthorized in 2012 by Congress and the Obama administration. Imagine youre driving a car without a tire pressure issue warning light on your dashboard, commented Rytis Beresnevicius, a full-time reporter for AviationCV, in an interview with the World Socialist Web Site. Sure, under sunny and clear weather conditions you might not encounter any danger when driving with a deflated tire, but as soon as it rainsyoure essentially at risk to injure not only yourself, but others around you as well, as the deflated tire might prevent you from handling your car properly. So the tire pressure light indicates to a driver that he or she should be careful and stop at the nearest gas station to put some air into the deflated tire. Following the car analogy, imagine the car being an aircraft and the driver being the pilot. Except a pilot is in the direct control of hundreds of human lives. Imagine the [angle of attack disagree] alerts being the tire pressure warnings, and a stall being a dangerous situation when driving. But when youre in a car, you can get lucky and not hit anything. When an aircraft encounters a stall, the pilots have a very narrow window of time to correct it. A mistake can launch the aircraft into an unrecoverable stall. That is what happened with the Lion Air Boeing 737 MAX crash except the pilots did not make a mistake. The automated anti-stall system, MCAS (Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System), was installed on 737 Max planes to compensate for a tendency of the plane to stall. The 737 Maxes were rushed onto market to compete with Europe-based rival Airbus 320neo jet. Boeing marketed the new 737 with the claim that it was cheaper to put into service than the Airbus jet because it supposedly required virtually no additional training for pilots familiar with the older 737 models. One anomaly Boeing has yet to explain is the fact that MCAS is triggered by readings from only one of the planes two AoA sensors. It has always been standard protocol, and is the case on previous 737 models, that redundancy is built into a system that is critical to the safety of the aircraft, such as MCAS. This would require that MCAS be triggered by readings from both AoA sensors, not just one. Boeing and the FAA continued to insist that the 737 Max was safe to fly even after the March 10 Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crash. It was only after virtually every other government and regulatory agency in the world had banned the plane that the US agreed, on March 13, to ground the 737 Max fleet. Now Boeing and the FAA are rushing to complete a software patch that will supposedly correct the problems so as to resume 737 Max flights by this summer. Rytis continued: In my opinion, [angle of attack disagree alerts] are absolutely necessary. The pilot needs to know if anything has gone wrong about the sensors, especially crucial ones as the AoA sensor, as disagreeing readings on the flight deck can confuse the pilots and lead to dangerous, even fatal situations. The press release is just Boeing shifting the blame somewhere else. They are defending their greed, as the AoA sensors, linked to the AoA disagreement alert, is an optional extra that airlines have to pay for. Boeing is defending their negligence, as they did not share the information that the alert is not working properly or that the alert only works when you purchase the optional sensors. They knew that fact since 2017 and they shared it with the FAA and their airline customers ONLY after the Lion Air Boeing 737 crashed. This is an identical situation to the MCAS informationBoeing informed airlines about the system only after a fatal accident. When asked if pilots could react properly to a problem with their aircraft without proper alerts, Rytis responded, No, they cant. Following the same car analogy, when you know your tire is deflated, you know how to handle the situation and drive safely without taking an unnecessary risk. But when youre not fully aware of the situation, you can judge it the wrong way, as you can only guess what is wrong. Again, thats what happened with the Lion Air crash. The pilots did not know how to turn MCAS off. They did not know that there were faulty AoA sensors in the first place. If the pilots had known about the malfunctioning sensors, the aircraft wouldnt have even lifted off the ground. But Boeing, shockingly, decided that they did not need to include the AoA disagree alert as standard. Or that aircraft pilots needed to know that there is even a system like MCAS on board the 737 Max. Stating that those features are only supplemental information, Boeing showcased how careless they can be. With reports revealing that another of their jets, the 787, is manufactured in a way to maximize profits, the company is under a lot of harsh criticism at the moment. The Sydney Morning Herald revealed on May 2 that in 2017 the Australian fascist and white supremacist Lads Society tried to recruit Brenton Tarrant, who carried out the March 15 terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. The death toll from New Zealands worst-ever mass shooting increased to 51 on May 2 after Turkish citizen Zekeriya Tuyan succumbed to injuries in hospital. Dozens more were injured in the atrocity, which the gunman had spent at least two years preparing. The latest revelation further discredits the claims by Australian and New Zealand governments and police, along with much of the media, that Tarrant was a lone gunman whose attack could not have been prevented. NZ police commissioner Mike Bush repeated to TVNZ on Monday that the shooter was not ever on anyones radar. In fact, Tarrant had long-standing links with Australian far-right groups, made repeated threats of violence, and donated large sums to the racist Identitarian movements in Austria and France. The Lads Society is one of several neo-Nazi groups which, despite their small membership, have received extensive publicity in the corporate media in recent years, and are closely monitored by police and intelligence agencies. Like the Christchurch shooter, the group was emboldened by the election victory of US President Donald Trump and the shift to the right by the entire political establishment in Australia and internationally. In a May 3 blog post, Lads Society leader Thomas Sewell said the groups members were the sons of Nietzsche, of Evola, of Hitler, of [British fascist Oswald] Mosley, of [Enoch] Powell. The society describes non-white immigration as the genocide of the white race and seeks to establish an ethnically cleansed state. According to the Herald, Sewell claimed he never personally met Tarrant, but people in the fascist scene had known of Tarrant online for at least three years. Tarrant supported the United Patriots Front, the predecessor of the Lads Society, in numerous Facebook comments. He hailed UPF leader and Lads Society co-founder Blair Cottrell as an Emperor. In 2016, Tarrant sent a Facebook message threatening to kill a man who had denounced an anti-immigrant rally held by the UPF. The threat was shown to Melbourne police, who dismissed it and took no action. In New Zealand, police similarly ignored a report in 2017 from a member of the public about violent and anti-Muslim language at the Bruce Rifle Club, where Tarrant was a member. Sewell told the Herald he had corresponded with Tarrant and invited him to join the Lads Society but Tarrant declined because he didnt believe there was a peaceful solution to European people being genocided. Sewell said we believe, certainly at this stage, that there is a peaceful solution for us to create the society we want to live in. [emphasis added] In other words, the difference with Tarrant was a matter of timing and tactics, and did not concern their shared fascist politics and willingness to use violent methods. Sewell added that the group was prepared to resort to violence if the state continues its persecution of our people for wanting to preserve their culture and heritage or if his members were arrested. Im not going to give you any explicit threat but it's pretty fking obvious what's going to happen, Sewell said. In fact, far from being persecuted, fascists feel able to make such public threats because they are confident of being protected by the state apparatus. On March 20, the Lads Society revealed that it had a friendly visit from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) and state police to ask for our insight into the motivations of Brenton Tarrant and how they can assist us in ensuring our lawful community organisation can succeed and grow in order to prevent further isolation, radicalisation and potentially any future politically motivated violence. Following the Christchurch shooting, ASIOs director-general Duncan Lewis told a Senate committee there was nothing wrong with right-wing extremism except when it ventures into violence. He declared there was no need to refocus intelligence gathering on far-right groups, which were already being monitored. ASIO and the police did not explain why they took no action in response to Tarrants repeated threats on social media to attack immigrants, Marxists and globalists. In Europe and the US, there are extensive neo-Nazi networks and fascist sympathisers within the military, border security and intelligence agencies. Tarrant, who travelled throughout Europe in the years before his attack, estimated that hundreds of thousands of European far-right nationalists were employed in the armed forces. Members of the alt-right are being welcomed into established bourgeois parties, which have largely adopted their xenophobic and anti-Muslim rhetoric in order to divide the working class and deflect blame for social inequality and poverty onto immigrants. Labor and the Liberal-National coalition have for decades demonised and imprisoned refugees, and joined US-led wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. In late 2017 and 2018 a group of 22 fascists, including members of the Lads Society and Antipodean Resistance, were admitted into the youth wing New South Wales branch of the National Party, which is part of the Liberal-National coalition government. A leading member of the group, Clifford Jennings, was voted onto the executive of the NSW National Party youth. The group, which included open racists and admirers of Adolf Hitler, was only expelled following an investigation by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in October 2018. In the lead-up to the May 18 federal election, the same elements are campaigning for the Conservative National Party, founded by independent senator Fraser Anning, a former member of the racist One Nation party. Anning issued a press release following the Christchurch shootings blaming the victims for the attack and declaring that Muslim immigration was the real cause of bloodshed on New Zealands streets today. Anning is openly campaigning for a white ethno-state and to ban all Muslim and Black immigration. In New Zealand, the right-wing nationalist NZ First Party is a partner in Prime Minister Jacinda Arderns Labour-led coalition government. NZ First has repeatedly demonised Muslims and Chinese immigrants, using language similar to Tarrants. Ardern adopted the right-wing partys anti-immigrant policies and made NZ First leader Winston Peters deputy prime minister and foreign minister. Notwithstanding their hypocritical professions of sympathy for the Christchurch victims and the Muslim community, the ruling class in Australia and New Zealand continue to promote the fascist forces that led to the atrocity and will be used against the working class as it seeks to organise in opposition to austerity and imperialist war. On Saturday, May 4, the International Committee of the Fourth International held the 2019 International May Day Online Rally, the sixth annual online May Day Rally held by the ICFI, the world Trotskyist movement. The rally heard speeches on different aspects of the world crisis of capitalism and the struggles of the international working class from 12 leading members of the world party and its sections and sympathizing organizations around the world. On successive days, the World Socialist Web Site is publishing the texts of the speeches delivered at the rally. Below is the speech delivered by Christoph Vandreier, the deputy national secretary of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party of Germany) . On Monday, the WSWS published the opening report to the rally, given by David North, the chairman of the international editorial board of the WSWS and national chairman of the Socialist Equality Party (US). *** On behalf of the German section of the ICFI, the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (SGP), I would like to bring revolutionary greetings to this rally. This May Day takes place under extraordinary conditions. While the ruling class is promoting authoritarian and even fascistic forces, the working class is being radicalized and entering into struggle. If one were to base oneself on the official press, it would appear that the whole of society is moving sharply to the right. In the European Union, 10 countries are already governed by extreme right-wing parties. The right-wing extremist and anti-Semitic prime minister of Hungary, Victor Orban, recently met with Italys fascistic interior minister Mateo Salvini to announce a new right-wing alliance throughout the continent. In Austria, the far-right FPO just distributed a party leaflet on Adolf Hitlers birthday in the city where he was born, Braunau, attacking the integration of refugees and calling them rats. This has had no impact upon its coalition with the conservative OVP. But the shift to the right is not limited to governments that include openly fascistic parties. In France, Emanuel Macron hailed the fascist dictator Philippe Petain and has mobilized the army against peaceful demonstrators opposing growing social inequality. In Germany, the grand coalition of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) is carrying out the program of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). It is building up a network of deportation camps for refugees all over the country. It is rapidly rearming the German military and building up a police state. The secret service is closely collaborating with the far-right AfD and is surveiling and attacking everyone who seriously criticizes the far-right party. For the first time, the German SGP has been placed on a list of left-wing extremist organizations because it criticized capitalism, nationalism and the AfD. There is no question about it: The ruling elite is shifting rapidly to the right and capitalism is leading once again to fascism and war. But the broad masses of the working population are deeply hostile toward this development. In Berlin alone, hundreds of thousands of workers have demonstrated against the AfD. They have not forgotten the experiences of the 1930s and 40s, when the bourgeoisie consciously brought Hitler to power to smash all opposition to social inequality and war. Workers remember the consequences of this conspiracy. Today, it is impossible to walk through the German capital without coming across memorials and historical traces of annihilation. And there is not a family that was not deeply affected by these horrific events. In opposition to the ruling elite, the working class is moving to the left. There are mass strikes in Eastern Europe, protests against the social attacks of the Syriza government in Greece, and the movement of the yellow vests in France. And this is only the beginning. In Germany, a movement is growing against rising rents in which the demand for the expropriation of the landlords is on everyones mind. The chasm between the ruling class and the population has become unbridgeable. That is why the ruling class is heading once again towards authoritarian and even fascistic methods. They now want to silence everybody who is even mentioning the word socialism. Last week, the leader of the youth organization of the social democratic SPD, Kevin Kuhnert, stated in an interview that he is in favor of socialism and explained that socialism is, in his view, a set of mild reformist proposals that would restore the promises of the social state of the 70s and 80s. But even these tepid demands unleashed an uproar in the trade unions, the government, the SPD itself and virtually every newspaper in the country. Kuhnert was compared to Stalin and attacked for his Marxist ideology. The AfD called upon the secret service to go after the SPD politician. The ruling elite no longer accepts even distorted forms of social criticism, because its rule, the perverse enrichment at the very top of society and the drive towards imperialist war have become incompatible with the social needs of the masses. This development confirms the SGPs fight against the return of fascism in Germany, which is summarized and developed in the book Why are they back? We exposed the attempts to falsify the history of the Third Reich, which are aimed at reviving all of its methods. And we showed that there is no opposition to this within the ruling elite. After Professor Jorg Baberowski from Humboldt University in Berlin said, in February 2014 in Germanys biggest news journal, D er Spiegel, that Hitler was not vicious and that the Holocaust was not different from mass shootings during the civil war in Russia, not a single faculty member of any university in Germany criticized his horrific statements. Quite the opposite. Representatives of all the parliamentary parties in Germany, including the Left Party, most of the corporate media and a significant number of academics defended Baberowski when the SGP and the IYSSE criticized his trivialization of the Nazis crimes. On the other hand, the SGP won widespread support from students and especially among workers. Baberowski and company may be able to rewrite history in their rotten academic circles, but they cannot erase the memory of Nazi crimes in the population. They will not conquer again. And this is not just the case in Germany. When I presented the book Why are they back? in London and in six meetings across the United States in recent weeks, hundreds of workers and students attended, because they understood that they are confronted with exactly the same issues. They responded very positively to the perspective of the independent mobilization of the working class, the only social force that can stop the rise of fascism. And the meetings themselves made very clear that it is not the German working class that alone will beat the rise of fascism, and not the American working class that alone will do so, but the international working class. But in order to do so, the working class requires a socialist perspective and revolutionary leadership. This is the main lesson of the 1930s and of Trotskys fight against the betrayal of the Social Democrats and the Stalinists, who played down the threat of fascism and refused to fight it. The central task is to build the International Committee of the Fourth International throughout Europe and internationally. That is the only way to stop the fascists, and this is the perspective we are fighting for in the European elections. The campaign for Indias multi-phase national election, which will culminate with the tabulation of votes on May 23, has been a degrading spectacle. An estimated $7 billion, or well over two-thirds of what the Indian state spends annually on healthcare for the countrys 1.37 billion people, is being expended on a campaign dominated by foul communalist appeals, bellicose threats and phony populist promises. From the outset, the campaigns tone has been set by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu supremacist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP government seized on a February 14 terrorist attack in Indian-held Kashmir to foment a war crisis, ordering air strikes deep inside Pakistan. It did so with the transparent aim of highlighting Modis strongman political persona, suppressing popular anger over mass unemployment and Indias protracted agrarian crisis, and mobilizing its Hindutva-ite activist base. With Modi boasting that India could punish Pakistan at will, Pakistans military, which justifies its claims to economic privileges and political power by invoking the threat from arch-nemesis India, felt compelled to respond. In the final days of February, South Asias rival nuclear-armed powers came closer to all-out war than at any time since the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. As the war crisis unfolded, Indias opposition parties from the Congress Party through the Stalinist Communist Party of India (CPI) and Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) competed with Modi as to who could be the most effusive in their praise of the military. In response to Modis relentless promotion of his surgical strikes and denunciations of his election rivals for appeasing Pakistan and undermining the military, the opposition subsequently criticized the BJP government for politicizing the airstrikes. But none voiced so much as a word of criticism of Modi for recklessly bringing India to the brink of all-out war. This is because the entire oppositionand this is true of the Stalinists no less than the otherssupports the Indian ruling elites predatory great power ambitions, including its reactionary strategic rivalry with Pakistan. All have supported Indias emergence as a major military power, with the worlds fourth largest military budget, and all have been complicit in Indias transformation under successive Congress and BJP-led governments into a front-line state in US imperialisms military-strategic offensive against China. Five years ago, the BJP won the election with a campaign that focused on a demagogic appeal to deep-rooted social grievances, promising jobs and development, even as it projected Modi, who first came to national prominence for his role in instigating and facilitating the 2002 Gujarat anti-Muslim pogrom, as its prime ministerial candidate. In this election, Modi and the BJP have doubled down on Hindu communalism. Not a day goes by without some provocation, whether it be BJP President Amit Shah vilifying Muslim migrants from Bangladesh as termites and vowing to throw them into the Bay of Bengal or Modi trumpeting an indicted Hindu supremacist terrorist as a star BJP candidate. The BJP has been emboldened by the support that it enjoys in the military-intelligence apparatus and from Indias business houses, which generally view it as the best bet to provide the strong government needed to push through further unpopular neo-liberal reforms and aggressively assert their interests on the world stage. The spinelessness and complicity of the opposition have also acted as an incitement. The Congress Party and its dynastic leader, Rahul Gandhi, made a whole series of communalist gestures and policy pronouncements in the run-up to the elections, in what even the corporate media characterized as a Hindutva lite campaign. But the BJPS turn to unabashed communal reaction is animated, above all, by its fear of growing social opposition. Modi and the Hindu right sense that the ground is shifting beneath them. In the past two-and-a-half years there has been a mounting wave of strikes and protests, spearheaded by an increasingly rebellious working class but also embracing large sections of rural and urban toilers. Tens of millions of workers across India joined a two-day general strike in January against the BJP governments savage austerity and pro-investor measures. The strikes and farmer protests that have swept across India since 2017 are fueled by more than opposition to the BJP. They are challenging the pro-market, pro-investor agenda that all governments at both the all-India and the state level have pursued since 1991, when the Indian bourgeoisie, its post-independence state-led capitalist development having shipwrecked, forged a new partnership with imperialism based on Indias transformation into a cheap-labour production hub for global capital. A malignant social order To what extent opposition to the Modi government will find expression in the election remains unclear. All the BJPs opponents are deeply discredited, having themselves championed pro-investor policies, enforced endemic poverty and presided over the rapacious growth of social inequality. The Congress, until recently the bourgeoisies preferred party of government, is no longer electorally competitive in vast swathes of north India. In a desperate attempt to generate election excitement and infuse fresh blood, the Congress has proclaimed as its new star campaigner none other than Priyanka Varda, the sister of Rahul Gandhi, whose mother, father, grandmother and great-grandfather all preceded him as Congress Party president (the last three mentioned all serving as Indias prime minister.) Hoping to capitalize on popular anger against the two national big business parties, a host of regional and caste-based parties are contesting the elections separately from the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance and the BJPs National Democratic Alliance (NDA). All these parties have previously participated in right-wing Congress and BJP governments. They cynically use ethno-chauvinist and caste-ist appeals to push for pelf and power for various bourgeois and petty-bourgeois factions and, above all, to divert and divide the working class. In the name of saving democracy and saving the Republic, the Stalinists and their Left Front are shamelessly supporting the push of a section of the bourgeoisie to replace the BJP with an alternate right-wing government, most likely Congress-led. They are mounting an Anybody but BJP campaign, urging working people to support whichever party or electoral alliance is best positioned to defeat the BJP/NDA in a given state, while crowing about the leading role they played in stitching together and propping up a succession of non BJP governments between 1989 and 2008. All these governments, but especially the Narasimha Rao (199196) and Manmohan Singh (200414) Congress-led governments, blazed the path for the Modi government. The former implemented the first wave of big bang pro-investor policies, while the latter pressed forward with privatization, deregulation and marketization, while forging a global strategic partnership with US imperialism. Whatever the election outcome and the precise composition of Indias next governmentwhether it is led by the BJP, Congress or a Federal Front of smaller partiesit will be a government of austerity and reaction. The bourgeoisies agenda was briefly outlined in a recent Times of India editorial. Titled After the poll: Economic reforms and cultivating friends are crucial for Indias strategic heft, it demanded resolute reforms and a strengthening of the Indo-US alliance, including by getting the Quada NATO-style anti-China alliance comprised of the US, Japan, Australia and Indiaworking. A headlong clash between the incipient rebellion of working people against the ruinous impact of decades of pro-investor neo-liberal reform and Indias next government is inevitable. To prepare for it, the most class conscious workers and youth must take up the fight to mobilize the working class as an independent political force, rallying the rural toilers and all the oppressed behind it in the fight for a workers government. The more than seven-decades-long history of independent India stands as an indictment of the bourgeoisie and a confirmation in the negative of the program that animated the 1917 Russian Revolution and will be forever synonymous with the name of Leon TrotskyPermanent Revolution. In the countries historically oppressed by imperialism, the basic tasks of the democratic revolution can be resolved only through a working class-led socialist revolution and as an integral part of the world struggle for socialism. Contemporary capitalist India is a malignant society, in which caste-ism, landlordism, bonded labour and other feudal vestiges are interlaced with the most advanced forces of globally organized capitalist exploitation. At the height of society, criminality reigns. Indias newly minted 130-strong cohort of billionaires and the rest of the capitalist elite gorge on obscene wealth while employing state violence and the divide-and-rule caste and communalist politics pioneered by Indias former British colonial overlords to suppress all social opposition. Social inequality in India now rivals that under the British Raj. The top 1 percent monopolizes 71 percent of Indias wealth, whilst hundreds of millions survive on less than $2 per day and Modi struts the world stage seeking to drum up investment with the boast that wages in India are one-quarter those in China. Under conditions of world capitalist breakdown, trade war and surging geopolitical tensions, Indias ruling elite is playing an especially vile and incendiary role. It is encouraging US imperialism in its war drive against China by aligning itself diplomatically and militarily ever more tightly with Washington. At the same time, New Delhi is seeking to leverage any strategic favours Washington bestows on India to mount its own campaign of aggression, intrigue and war and impose itself as a regional hegemon. The enmeshing of the reactionary Indo-Pakistani and Sino-Indian conflicts with the US-China strategic confrontation represents an enormous threat to the working people of Asia and the world. This has already been highlighted by the three war crisestwo with Pakistan and the ten-week military standoff with Chinese troops over control of a Himalayan plateau in the summer of 2017in which India has been embroiled just since September 2016. Stalinism and the rise of the Hindu right The struggle to politically arm the working class with the program of international socialism requires a settling of accounts with Stalinism. The CPM, CPI and their trade union affiliates have for decades functioned as an integral part of the bourgeois political establishment. They are primarily responsible for the burning contradiction that is at the heart of social and political life in India. The past three decades of capitalist expansion have resulted in a massive growth in the size and social power of the working class. Yet the bourgeoisie has been able to appropriate an ever greater share of the wealth produced by working people, who are completely politically disenfranchised. This is not because the ruling class offensive has gone unchallenged. But the Stalinists have systematically suppressed the class struggle and enforced the bourgeoisies neo-liberal agenda. This includes supporting a series of right-wing national governments, under the guise of blocking the BJP from power, and implementing what they themselves term pro-investor policies in the states where they have held officeWest Bengal, Kerala and Tripura. As a result, the bourgeoisie has been able to implement its socially regressive agenda. And with the Stalinists politically paralyzing the working class, preventing it from advancing its own socialist solution to the social crisis and supporting and implementing right-wing measures, the Hindu right has been able to batten off popular frustration and fears over deepening economic insecurity. After three decades in which the CPM and CPIs principal purported aim has been to counter the BJP, the Hindu supremacist menace is stronger than ever. Today, in response to the deepening class struggle in India and the resurgence of working class opposition around the world, the Stalinists are redoubling their efforts to shackle the working class to the bourgeoisie, its parties and its state. The Stalinists attitude toward the growing movement of the working class is epitomized by their virulent opposition to the struggle to mobilize the working class in defence of the 13 Maruti Suzuki workers jailed for life on frame-up charges for leading opposition to poverty wages and precarious employment at Indias largest auto manufacturer. For the CPM, CPI and their union affiliates, the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), the Maruti Suzuki workers are unmentionable because the fight for their freedom cuts across their cozy relations with the Congress Party, which initiated their frame up, and with the employers. Moreover, it would put the lie to their claims that the Indian state is a democratic bulwark on which working people should rely in opposing communal reaction. The World Socialist Web Site appeals to Indian workers, youth and socialist-minded professionals to take up the fight for the independent political mobilization and international unification of the working class under revolutionary leadership. A key element is the rallying of the masses of South Asia across the reactionary, ethno-communal state borders that were drawn by the Rajs departing British colonial overlords and rival factions of the native bourgeoisie in 194748 in order to mount a united struggle against war and imperialism and undertake the fight for the Socialist United States of South Asia. This strategyPermanent Revolutionis embodied in, and animates the political work of the Fourth International, the World Party of Socialist Revolution, founded by Leon Trotsky in 1938 in struggle against the Stalinist betrayal of the 1917 Russian Revolution and led since 1953 by the International Committee of the Fourth International. Its realization urgently requires the building of the Indian section of the ICFI. Australias central role in the US-led preparations for conflict with China has been one of the great unmentionables in the federal election campaign. Amid escalating US threats against Beijing, ramped-up trade war measures and the deliberate heating up of dangerous flashpoints around the world, Labor, the Liberal-Nationals, the Greens and the media have sought to suppress any discussion of foreign policy and war. Despite these concerted efforts to keep the population in the dark, Australias involvement in Washingtons confrontation with China erupted to the surface of the campaign this week. On Sunday afternoon, after the Labor Partys formal election launch in Brisbane, former Prime Minister Paul Keating approached the media to declare that Australias intelligence chiefs were nutters who had gone berko in their approach to Beijing. Keating said that the intelligence agencies had lost their bearings and called upon Labor leader Bill Shorten to clean them out if he forms government after the election. Indicating the concerns animating his statements, Keating declared that China had always been a great state and now has the second-largest economy. He then added: If we have a foreign policy that does not take that into account, we are fools. The comments were Keatings most explicit denunciation of a protracted anti-China campaign in Australia by the dominant sections of the media and political establishment. The former prime minister is widely presented as an elder statesman of Australian politics for his role in decimating workers jobs, wages and conditions and expanding Australian imperialisms influence in the Asia-Pacific region. His comments reflect fears within a section of the ruling elite that Australias involvement in the US drive to war with China threatens lucrative trade and business relationships. This layer is not opposed to militarism or to the US-Australia alliance. However, it has issued plaintive appeals for the US to make some accommodation to Chinas rise in the region in order to forestall all-out conflict between the nuclear-armed powers. Figures such as Keating are also terrified that war scares and military confrontations will result in mass anti-war sentiment coalescing into a political movement of the working class against militarism and war. Indicating that Keating was not speaking for himself alone, prominent Labor MP Anthony Albanese, who has previously contested for the partys leadership against Shorten, said that the statements reflected broader concerns. Albaneses comments pointed to deep rifts within Labor over foreign policy. Shorten immediately repudiated Keatings statements and pledged his fealty to the intelligence agencies. Weve worked very well with the national security agenciesthey know that and we know thatand of course we will continue that, Shorten said. Government-funded think tanks with close ties to the US and Australian intelligence agencies, along with the Murdoch press, have published a stream of articles and comments condemning Keating. Many have implied that any criticism of the intelligence agencies is impermissible. The furious response to Keatings remarks is in line with the bipartisan commitment to participating in Washingtons military build-up against China throughout the Asia-Pacific region. In June 2010, a tiny cabal of MPs and trade union leaders, including Shorten, deposed then Labor Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, installing Julia Gillard. Rudd had voiced concerns over the implications of the US confrontation with China. Those involved in his ouster were later revealed in diplomatic cables published by WikiLeaks to have been protected sources of the US embassy. The Greens-backed Gillard government proceeded to lay out the red carpet for US President Barack Obama in 2011. He announced, from the floor of the Australian parliament, a US pivot to Asia, including plans to station 60 percent of the US navy and airforce in the region by 2020. Gillard signed a military agreement with Obama providing for the expansion of US bases and the closer integration of the Australian army into the US war machine. This military-build up, which has proceeded behind the backs of the population, has been deepened by every government since. A major escalation took place in June last year, with the bipartisan passage of foreign interference lawsthe most draconian since the Second World War. It potentially illegalises any internationally-coordinated political activity, cracks down on whistleblower rights and is aimed at intimidating widespread anti-war sentiment among workers, students and young people. The foreign interference laws were rushed through parliament after a hysterical campaign spearheaded by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and Fairfax Media. A host of articles, based on the unsubstantiated claims of unnamed intelligence officials, claimed that there was a widespread Chinese Communist Party plot to intervene in Australian politics, business and virtually every aspect of social life. The media campaign, which continues, has implied that Chinese businessmen, academics, cultural associations and student groups are stalking horses for the Chinese regime. The sweeping foreign interference laws lay the basis for a McCarthyite witch-hunt and the prosecution of anyone accused of having acted on behalf of a foreign principal. The legislation could also be directed against the wing of the Australian political establishment that has expressed concerns over mounting US provocations against China. Articles in the press have denounced prominent figures, such as former Labor foreign minister Bob Carr over their ties to Chinese interests. The press has also condemned Keating for his involvement with a Chinese development bank. The prosecution of a prominent political figure under the laws would be a prelude to their broader use, including against anti-war organisations and individuals. This is in line with the dramatic build-up of police powers by Labor and Liberal-National governments under the banner of the bogus war on terror, and a deepening turn to authoritarian forms of rule around the world. Keatings remarks pointed to the increasingly political role of the Australian intelligence agencies, which collaborate closely with their US counterparts. When you have the ASIO chief knocking on MPs doors, you know somethings wrong, he warned. The revelation of the active influence of unelected and secretive intelligence organisations over elected officials has passed without comment in the media. All of the parliamentary parties, including the Greens, have joined with ASIO in the anti-China witch-hunt, signalling their support for war and political repression. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) alone has sought to warn the working class of Australias central involvement in the advanced US preparations for war. The SEP is the only party to have exposed the anti-democratic character of the foreign interference laws and to have campaigned against them. In this election, the SEP is deepening its fight to build an anti-war movement of the working class. Such a movement must be international, completely independent from the pro-war capitalist parties, and based on a socialist program aimed at abolishing the source of conflict, the capitalist system and its outmoded division of the world into rival nation states. Authorised by James Cogan for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000. Following weeks of rumors, CBS News confirmed Friday that former Marine Corps General John F. Kelly, who served for as secretary of homeland security and White House chief of staff under President Trump, has joined the board of directors of Caliburn International. Caliburn is a for-profit company that runs the nations largest facility for unaccompanied migrant children, located in Homestead, Florida, along with three others facilities in Texas. Comprehensive Health Services (CHS), which operates the Homestead facility, was acquired by Caliburn last year and has since become one of the most dominant players in the child immigrant prison industry. The retired military general, notorious for his brutality against immigrants, is cashing in on the draconian policies he helped implement. An early public advocate within the Trump administration for the zero tolerance policy that involved separating migrant children from their parents and locking them up in detention centers, he will now be handsomely paid by a company that has made many millions of dollars from the vast expansion of the migrant detention industry his policies helped promote. Some 2,000 immigrant minors were being held in Homestead as of March 30, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Its bed capacity is currently being expanded from 2,350 to 3,200. Located on federal land adjacent to an Air Reserve base, Homestead is the only site in the country not subject to inspections by state welfare officials, CBS reported. Homestead, which is unlicensed, has been investigated for sexual abuse of child inmates. During the Obama administration, one Homestead staffer was accused of sexual abuse and subsequently sentenced to prison. Kelly was appointed by Obama in 2012 to head the Southern Command, which is responsible for US military operations in South and Central America, including Guantanamo Bay. An open defender of torture, he vocally opposed closing the prison camp. As head of the Southern Command, Kelly escalated the persecution and victimization of innocent men, women and children making the dangerous trek from the Northern Triangle countries of Central America through Mexico to reach the US border, where they sought asylum. He notoriously declared that the fight against illegal immigration to the US began south of the US border. Under Programa Frontera Sur, Kelly oversaw the training of the Mexican military and supplied technology and intelligence to the Mexican government to carry out the dictates of Washington, including a crackdown of migrants seeking to enter the US. Under the Trump administration Kelly picked up where he left off under Obama. Besides pioneering the child separation policy, he vigorously enforced Trumps unconstitutional Muslim ban, authorized rank-and-file ICE agents and border patrol cops to pursue any immigrant who in the judgment of an immigration officer posed a risk to US national security, and formally rescinded the Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents program, also known as DAPA. Kelly was forced out by Trump and resigned his post as White House chief of staff at the beginning of 2019. This was part of a cabinet shakeup that included the dismissal of Defense Secretary James Mattis, also a retired general. The history of Kellys career, from Marine Corps general to White House chief of staff and now board member at a leading company in the child prison business, lays bare the criminality and corruption of the US political system and its incestuous relationship with the military and big business. The government recently gave Caliburn International subsidiary Comprehensive Health Services (CHS) $340 million in new contracts to run facilities in Texas. Federal contract records show that CHS received at least $222 million to operate Homestead between July 7, 2018 and April 20, 2019, and could receive up to $341 million in payments between now and November for continued operation of the expanded site. The Homestead facility is the only child detention center considered an emergency influx center and therefore exempt from the 1997 Flores settlement, which limits the amount of time the government can detain children. Reports on the conditions for youth in the facility read like descriptions of military prisons. Surrounded by a tall chain link fence, Homestead is guarded at every entrance by a team of private security contractors numbering over 2,000. Official photos from the Department of Homeland Security show dormitory style rooms with up to 200 beds in a single room crammed together in rows approximately shoulder-width apart. The children are kept on a strict military-style schedule. Waking up promptly each morning at 6:30 a.m., they are marched in single file from building to building and have only one hour of outdoor time each day. The detainees are permitted to call their parents only twice a week for ten minutes. Leecia Welch, senior director of legal advocacy and child welfare at the National Center for Youth Law, said in an interview with National Public Radio that children at Homestead have reported that from their first day of orientation they are told that under no circumstances can they touch another child in the facility, including their own siblings or friends to whom they are saying goodbye after many months of shared detention. They cant hug them goodbye. If they do, theyre told they will be written up and it could affect their immigration case, Welch explained. The prison-like atmosphere and military-style discipline reflect the background of the owners. The Caliburn board is made up of several former high-ranking military personnel, including retired General Anthony C. Zinni, Admiral James G. Stavridis and Rear Admiral Kathleen Martin. Kelly will no doubt feel right at home with this group. Since news of Kellys career move went public, nearly every 2020 Democratic presidential candidate has taken the opportunity to denounce Kelly as a scoundrel. These statements are utterly hypocritical. Just a year ago, Kelly was being lauded by leading Democrats as a positive influence and steadying hand within the Trump administration. At the time of Kellys appointment as head of the Department of Homeland Security, the New York Times carried a column by Roger Cohen praising Kelly and the other generals in Trumps cabinet as adults in the room serving to tether Trump and curtail his wilder instincts. This was echoed by nearly every leading member of the Democratic Party. Then-House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi said shortly after his promotion to White House chief of staff that she looked forward to working with Kelly. Vermont Senator and Democratic Party presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, who voted for his confirmation, said he hoped Kelly and Defense Secretary Mattis would have a moderating influence on the Trump administration. Connecticut Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal told the Washington Post that Generals Kelly, Mattis and H. R. McMaster, then Trumps national security adviser, were standouts of dependability in the face of rash and impulsive conduct on the part of Trump, adding , There certainly has been a feeling among many of my colleagues that they are a steadying hand on the rudder. This high praise was given to a man who has played a leading role in some of the most brutal crimes committed by American imperialism. As a Marine Corps general, he commanded troops during the invasion of Iraq and helped lead the brutal offensive against the ancient city of Baghdad. He infamously told a reporter at the time, Baghdad aint s**t. In 2015, he told the US Senate that the only people not treated humanely or having their human rights protected [at Guantanamo] are the guards, and that the prisoners have better health care down there than probably the veterans in our country have. In spite of, or perhaps more accurately, because of his well-known background, Kelly was confirmed 88-11 by the US Senate to his position at the Department of Homeland Security. At the time, no Democratic politician made any bones about his record in the service of US imperialism or the fact that just prior to joining the Trump administration, Kelly had been on the board of advisors of DC Capital Partners, an investment firm that now owns Caliburn. He was also listed as vice chairman at the Spectrum Group, a defense contractor lobbying firm, and had board memberships with Michael Baker International and Sallyport Global, two defense contractors that do business with the US government. Tens of thousands of teachers in the US state of Oregon will participate today in walkouts and rallies across the state. The Oregon educators, who will be joined by students and parents, are part of a global struggle of teachers demanding an end to the chronic underfunding of public schools. Many districts have cancelled school due to a shortage of substitute teachers. Teachers throughout the country will recognize the most crucial factors driving Oregon educators to walk out: large class sizes, inadequate staffing, high student ratios for nurses and school psychologists, slashed programs like Special Education and Arts, and stagnant wages. In 2018, nearly 380,000 teachers went on strike in the US, with educators making up the bulk of the record number of striking workers since 1986. Another 70,000 have struck this year, including in West Virginia, Los Angeles, Oakland and Denver. These conditions are shared by the hundreds of thousands of teachers who have engaged in strikes in recent months in Poland, Morocco, France, Algeria and Mexico, to name only a handful of countries. In every instance, the aspirations of educators come into conflict with the politicians and union bureaucracies that serve the financial elite. This makes ever more urgent the fight to build independent rank-and-file committees to unite all teacher struggles into a common offensive to secure quality education. These widespread school conditions result from a decades-long campaign by the ruling capitalist class to protect corporate profits and wage war at the expense of the social programs, wages, benefits and living conditions of the working class. In Oregon, the state government has underfunded public schools by 24 percent to 38 percent since the Quality Education Commission (QEC) first began recording the figures in the 1990s. The QEC suggests that a minimum of $10.7 billion is needed for public schools to provide a high-quality education from preschool to graduation, requiring $2.5 billion be added to the $8.2 billion allocated in the previous 2017-2019 budget. District administrations are planning major cuts to local operating budgets, racked by a budget crisis that has its roots in the record transfer of wealth from the bailout of the Wall Street banks, which caused the 2008 crash. Though many districts have not released their proposed budgets for the next biennium yet, it appears these cuts will hit Portland metro-area schools and their 150,000 students the hardest. Faced with a $35 million shortfall, Beaverton Public Schools plans to eliminate 300 staff positions, including 200 teachers, along with professional development training and programs for English-language learners. Portland Public Schools will cut 45 teaching positions to make up for a $13 million shortfall. As in every state, teachers in Oregon face a bipartisan attack on public education. Democrats have held the majority of state government positions since 1988, though often by a slim majority, with Republicans dominating the rural eastern part of the state. Due to the tax cuts and incentives handed out to the corporate and financial aristocracy by both parties, tax revenues from corporations like Nike and Daimler Trucks are expected to hit a four-decade low this year even through profits are at a record high. Despite the vast sums of wealth at the top of society, Democratic legislators and union officials propose a mere 0.57 percent business tax on sales over $1 million, affecting less than ten percent of businesses. This bill, called the Student Success Act, would allocate $1 billion annually to local districts across the state by 2020, with no guarantees that the money will go toward the greatest demands. While most Republican politicians aim to make cuts to the state pension system (PERS) instead, Democratic Governor Kate Brown and the OEA unions have thrown their full support behind this bill, which many educators correctly recognize to be a pittance that will not resolve the crisis in public education. The National Education Association (NEA), to which the OEA state and local unions belong, has worked to isolate the burgeoning struggles of educators and channel their energy back behind those responsible for the public-school crisis, especially the Democratic Party. Democrats at the federal, state and local levels have fully participated in the assault on public education. Indeed, the Obama administrations Race-to-the-Top scheme, promotion of charter schools and victimization of teachers have paved the way for the Trump administrations all-out attack on public schools. When they were unable to prevent teachers from striking, the unions ensured that teachers did not unite in a common struggle with educators in other districts or states engaged in the same battle. Instead they quickly pushed through sellout agreements that did not meet teachers demands. This is the pattern of all the major struggles by teachers in the past year, including most recently in Oakland, Los Angeles, and Denver. Oregon teachers can learn many lessons from educators to the north in Washington state, who face widespread layoffs and budget cuts after their brave strikes in September were isolated and ultimately defeated by the unions. With school districts in Washington preparing mass layoffs and budget cuts, the Democratic Party-controlled state legislature passed a budget that provides a one-time infusion of cash and lifts the cap on regressive local property taxes. While shifting the tax burden onto the backs of working and middle-class people, Democratic Governor Jay Inslee handed the largest tax cut in history$8.7 billionto aircraft giant Boeing, while Washington-based Amazon, owned by the worlds richest man, paid $0 in federal taxes on $11 billion in profits last year. The attack on public education has a direct relationship to rising levels of social inequality. As schools endure blows to programs and staffing, the lives of students as well as teachers have been impacted by soaring costs of rent, homelessness, poverty, and drug and alcohol addiction, stress and other health issues. As teachers struggle to secure the funding necessary for high-quality public education for all students, their aspirations come into direct conflict with the financial and corporate aristocracy and corporate-backed politicians, who constantly defend the lie that there is no money for schools. Instead of pleading to the upper strata of society that has benefitted from the growth of inequality and austerity, educators must launch their own initiative to demand the massive redistribution of wealth to bring money back to the working class and its collective social needs. This necessarily entails breaking out of the isolation and subordination to the political establishment promoted by the unions, and instead creating rank-and-file committees that can unite all educators, workers, parents and students in a common fight across the United States and internationally. Tens of millions the world over are coming to understand that meeting societys needs is incompatible with the capitalist system, which subordinates every aspect of life to the ever-greater enrichment of the corporate and financial elite. A fundamental change in societys priorities will not be accomplished by appealing to the powers-that-be and their representatives in the Democratic and Republican parties to increase their taxes and create a more humane capitalism. The working class must build a powerful political movement against both corporate-controlled parties to fight for a workers government and the socialist reorganization of economic and political life. This will include the expropriation of the ill-gotten fortunes of the rich, a vast redistribution of wealth, and an infusion of resources to raise the material and cultural level of the entire population. Panamas electoral tribunal declared Laurentino Cortizo Cohen of the Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD) winner of Sundays presidential election in Panama, with 33 percent of the votes, two points ahead of the openly right-wing Democratic Change candidate, Romulo Roux, who acknowledged his defeat Monday afternoon. The election was another sign of growing opposition to inequality, albeit in a distorted way. It came after a year dominated by a series of strikes, including teachers demanding greater funding for public education, a one-month strike by thousands of construction workers demanding a 60 percent raise, and a general strike last July against an electricity rate hike. Cortizo, however, demonstrated his intention of escalating the policies of austerity and financialization driving inequality. His campaign, and this was true for all candidates, centered on fixing Panamas image after the emergence of the Panama Papers and a bribery scandal regarding the Brazilian construction firm Odebrecht. Significantly, Jose Blandon, the candidate of the Panamenista Party of incumbent president Juan Carlos Varela, who is constitutionally unable to run for re-election, received only 10.7 percent of the votes, compared to 19 percent for the previously little-known independent candidate, Ricardo Lombana. The only contender claiming to be left, the Broad Front for Democracy (FAD), founded and led by the construction-sector union responsible for selling out the strike last year, received only 0.68 percent, virtually the same as in 2014. Amid official boasts about the fastest economic growth in the region and a growing number of millionaires and their extravagant lifestyles, more than half of the working population is either unemployed or works in the highly precarious informal sector. Half of those in the formal sector make the minimum salary, and buying power has fallen during the last decade. Alfredo Abrego, a young father of three at Paso Blanco, told El Pais last week There are no jobs in this area and, when there are, they are sporadic, nothing stable They say the economy is growing, yes, but we only survive here with less than $200 for a fortnight. We are close to Panama [City] but transportation is difficult. Alma Moreno, a worker who makes $300 each fortnight sweeping streets in Panama City, told the Spanish daily, A few years ago, we could do our shopping for the whole family with $200 or $250 per fortnight. Now, its almost double: the pound of rice, the liter of oil Everything is expensive. A multibillion-dollar expansion of the Panama Canal initiated under the PRD government of Martin Torrijos, who promised to lift all boats with good-paying jobs, was inaugurated in 2016, but most Panamanians have seen none of the benefits. The same promise was made when his government signed a bilateral free trade agreement with the US. His father, Omar Torrijos, a populist dictator who took power in a military coup in 1968 and founded the PRD, made similar promises when signing a deal for the gradual transfer of the Panama Canal from US to Panamanian control in 1977. The threadbare political capital from the limited social reforms he implemented is largely behind any remaining support for the PRD. In 1981, he was killed in an explosion believed to have been staged by the CIA. Social austerity, privatizations and tax incentives have been intensified by governments of all stripes ever since, at the behest of the local and international financial aristocracy. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Panamas financial system hosts 1105 firms that administer $129 billion in assets, or 238 percent of GDP. After decades dictating these right-wing policies, the IMF focused its 2018 report on improving Panamas image for investors, suggesting greater supervision by the agencys own departments and measures to remove any appearance of secrecy in the law. The aim, however, has nothing to do with fighting tax evasion and corruption, but to secure Panamas competitive position as international financial and business services center, which is based on its offer of tax benefits and other obscure financial services. While the deepening crisis of global capitalism has fueled financial parasitism, endless austerity and staggering inequality, it is also intensifying the economic and military conflicts between rival capitalist nation-states, chiefly between a US imperialism in decline and a still-rising China, the worlds two largest economies. As a reflection of its position as a logistical, geographic, and financial node in the global economy, these processes find a particularly sharp expression in Panama, a country of four million people. Panamanian politics are thus a sensitive barometer of the falling power of US imperialism and its growing dependence on reckless military operations in seeking to reaffirm its domination over the hemisphere. As the Cold War drew to a close in the 1980s and 1990s, Washington fulfilled the 1977 accords by handing over the Canal, closing down the School of the Americas, moving its Southern Command headquarters to Miami and shutting down its military bases in Panama. The weakening of the so-called special relationship with Panama as a firm neocolonial bastion of US imperialism was most clearly demonstrated by the 1989 invasion of 26,000 US troops to capture the former CIA asset and dictator Manuel Noriega, leaving thousands of civilians killed or maimed. The Pentagon, however, has shown its readiness to intervene in Panama and the vicinity, including Venezuela, since 2003 by staging the largest annual military exercise led by its Southern Command, under the name Panamax, based on the scenario of ensuring the defense of the Panama Canal, whose control is crucial for isolating China from the eastern coasts of the Americas. Since the Martin Torrijos administration, the Panamanian ruling class has increasingly sought to maneuver between Washingtons domination and the forging of closer economic ties with Beijing. As early as 2005, a cable from the US embassy published by WikiLeaks warned, the GOP [Government of Panama] fears that an ill-considered move toward China could compromise its relations with the United States, its most important bilateral partner. In June 2017, Panama broke ties with Taiwan and recognized Beijing as the sole government of China. Last November, President Varela went as far as to declare to Washington that Panama is a sovereign, dignified and independent country that decides its own policies How can you tell countries in Latin America and Central America not to strengthen commercial ties with China? In recent years, Chinese companies have invested several billion dollars in infrastructure projects and gained control of ports on both ends of the canal. The telecommunications giant Huawei has set up a distribution center along the canal as well. President-elect Cortizo has deep personal and political ties with the US ruling class and, on election day, announced he had a frank discussion with the Chinese ambassador, in which he stressed that we have a strategic relationship with the US, our main partner. Nonetheless, with the Panamanian economy slowing down from its 11.3 percent growth in 2011 to 3.7 percent currently, ongoing negotiations on a free trade agreement with China, and remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping about turning Panama into a logistical center for Chinese companies in the Americas, economic ties between the two countries are expected to continue growing. At the same time, Varela has led regional support for the US regime-change operation in Venezuela, which is aimed in large measure at reversing growing political and economic Chinese and Russian influence in the region. Last Thursday, Varela echoed Trumps threats of an invasion. I hope the Maduro ex-president looks himself in the mirror of the former general [Manuel] Noriega, he said. Noriega, however, finds a political reflection in his successors, including Cortizo, who also backs Washingtons reckless operation in Venezuela. Noriega played a leading role as a channel of intelligence, money, guns and drugs used to back the US counterinsurgency and regime-change operations during the 1970s and 1980s in Central America, which not only killed hundreds of thousands, but set the stage for the ensuing social crisis, involving cartels, gangs and police-state repression in the region, and the deaths of many thousands more over the last two decades. A US-instigated civil war or a direct military intervention in Venezuela would not only bring about an even worse disaster for the entire hemisphere, but could also trigger a war with nuclear-armed Russia and China. The only alternative to imperialist war and oppressionand Panamas current position as a flashpointlies in the growing struggles of the working class in Latin America, the United States, Europe, Africa and Asia against social inequality. On Sunday, Donald Trump re-tweeted a post by the arch-reactionary evangelical preacher and prominent Trump confidant Jerry Falwell, Jr. calling for the president to extend his term from the constitutionally mandated four years to six. Referring to the Democratic Party-led effort to label Trump a Russian collaborator, the tweet read: Trump should have 2 yrs added to his 1st term as pay back for time stolen by this corrupt failed coup. By re-tweeting this proposal, Trump is, in effect, threatening to cancel the 2020 elections and declare himself above the law. Article II of the US Constitution states that the president shall hold his Office during the Term of four Years. Trumps action is a direct threat to abrogate the Constitution. Bourgeois politics has degenerated to such a degree that political and legal norms considered fundamental since the American Revolution are now challenged by presidential tweet. Trumps Republican backers claim that Trump was only joking. But canceling elections is not something about which presidents joke. The president is the most powerful person in the world and his every word is closely followed in the US and internationally. Politicians, businessmen and decision makers around the world parse even seemingly mundane statements or off-the-cuff remarks for their deeper significance. Trumps re-tweet of a prominent, politically active evangelical preacher is not a joke. It is a signal sent deliberately to both supporters and opponents, who will understand that Trump is serious and that he is prepared to pursue anticonstitutional methods to stay in power. It is part of an increasingly dictatorial pattern that Trump and his fascist advisers have long planned. While accepting an award at a ceremony in April along with military leaders, Trump said, This is really beautiful. This will find a permanent place, at least for six years, in the Oval Office. In 2018, Trump told Chinese President Xi Jinping that it was great that Xi was now president for life, adding, Maybe well have to give it a shot someday. In the lead-up to the 2016 election, Trump repeatedly threatened to disregard the election results if Democrat Hillary Clinton proved victorious. In response to a debate question asking whether he would accept a losing result, he said, I will tell you at the time. Ill keep you in suspense. It was Trumps current attorney, former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, who proposed canceling the November 2001 mayoral election in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, arguing that semi-dictatorial methods were needed despite the fact that he was legally termed out. Trumps presidency has included many similar authoritarian trial balloons. He positioned soldiers behind him during his inaugural address, planned to hold a military demonstration in Washington DC, and implemented a ban on travel from several Muslim countries. He has established a network of internment camps, proposed the death penalty for drug dealers, praised neo-Nazis as good people, called for ending due process for immigrants, said that his supporters were justified in using violence against his detractors, deployed the army on domestic soil, separated immigrant children from their parents, and declared a national emergency to appropriate funds for the construction of a border wall. In this context, the response of the Democratic Party is equally chilling. In an article titled Pelosi Warns Democrats: Stay in the Center or Trump May Contest Election Results, the New York Times published an interview with Democratic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, citing her concern that Mr. Trump would not give up power voluntarily if he lost re-election by a slim margin next year. In the interview, which was conducted before Trumps tweet, Pelosi said in reference to the 2018 midterm elections: If we win by four seats, by a thousand votes each, hes not going to respect the election. He would poison the public mind. He would challenge each of the races; he would say you cant seat these people. We had to win. Imagine if we hadnt wonoh, dont even imagine. So, as we go forward, we have to have the same approach. In response to brazen threats to violate the constitution, the Democrats strategy is to own the center-left, own the mainstream, Pelosi told the Times. Instead of condemning Trumps proposal to extend his term or warning him of the serious criminal implications of canceling a presidential election, Pelosi instructs Democrats to not engage in some of the other exuberances in our party, making clear that the party will not allow any social reform. This comes from a party that has won a plurality of the popular vote in all but one of the last eight presidential elections, yet failed to contest the stolen election of 2000, in which the Supreme Court wrote that Americans do not have the right to vote for president. Pelosis statement is an acknowledgment that the Democrats believe there are circumstances where they would have to accept the cancellation of an election. Were Trump to follow through on his threat, the most Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer would do is promise to file a lawsuit! The Democrats fecklessness in the face of Trumps threat to cancel a presidential election contrasts with the ferocity of their claims that Trump has facilitated Russias use of $100,000 to interfere in the last one. Pelosis interview exposes the anti-Russia campaign as disingenuous and absurd. If Trump were colluding with Russia, wouldnt his threat to refuse to accept election results be proof that Vladimir Putin is undermining our democracy? And doesnt Trumps threat alone constitute a violation of his oath to protect and defend Article II of the Constitutionan impeachable act? The Democrats are combining absolute indifference to critical issues of democratic rights with support for major aspects of Trumps policy agenda. On Monday, the New York Times published an editorial board statement titled, Give Trump his Border Money. The Democrats are collaborating with Trump on a new infrastructure program and lending support to his efforts to overthrow the government of Venezuela and impose tariffs on China. They are motivated above all by fear of social opposition from the working class, manifested most starkly in growing support for socialism. The Democrats dare not challenge Trump by raising the social, economic and democratic grievances of the broad masses of people because they believe this might trigger widespread strikes and protests challenging the profits of Wall Street and US imperialisms plans for military aggression and world domination. A serious warning must be made. Trumps tweet and Pelosis interview only scratch the surface of the antidemocratic and dictatorial measures being discussed behind closed doors at the White House, the Pentagon, Langley and Fort Meade. On Saturday, May 4, the International Committee of the Fourth International held the 2019 International May Day Online Rally, the sixth annual online May Day Rally held by the ICFI, the world Trotskyist movement. The rally heard speeches on different aspects of the world crisis of capitalism and the struggles of the international working class from 12 leading members of the world party and its sections and sympathizing organizations around the world. On successive days, the World Socialist Web Site is publishing the texts of the speeches delivered at the rally. Below is the speech delivered by Tom Peters, the leader of the Socialist Equality Group (New Zealand). On Monday, the WSWS published the opening report to the rally, given by David North, the chairman of the international editorial board of the WSWS and national chairman of the Socialist Equality Party (US). *** At this May Day rally, the International Committee of the Fourth International is making the most urgent warning to workers and young people throughout the world about the growing danger of fascism. The horrifying March 15 terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, in which 51 people, including young children, were killed and dozens more injured, was the product of the systematic promotion of right-wing extremism internationally. The gunman, Brenton Tarrant, was not a disturbed lone wolf, as depicted by police, politicians and the media. He was a highly conscious fascist who actively supported racist and anti-Muslim groups in Australia and Europe which have been emboldened by the lurch to the right of official politics. Unlike in the 1920s and 30s, fascism does not yet have a mass movement, but it is being deliberately cultivated by the political establishment, state agencies, the corporate media and right-wing academics. As the ICFI warned in January: The growth of far-right and fascistic movements, including the revival of anti-Semitism, poses immense danger to the working class. Under conditions of deepening capitalist crisis, unprecedented levels of social inequality and preparations for world war, the ruling elites are resurrecting all the political filth responsible for the worst crimes of the 20th century. Like other far-right terrorists in the United States, the Christchurch shooter was inspired by the 2016 election victory of President Donald Trump. His manifesto calls Trump a symbol of white renewal because of his statements encouraging racist violence and attacking Mexican and Muslim immigrants as invaders. Trump is only the most blatant personification of a global phenomenon. In Australia, where Tarrant grew up, successive Labor and Liberal-National governments have demonised refugees and imprisoned thousands in appalling conditions, while participating in criminal US-led wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria, encouraging the growth of racist parties such as One Nation. Extreme nationalist parties are in governments in Italy, Poland, Hungary and Austria, and have entered parliaments in many other European countries. The fascist Alternative for Germany is the parliamentary opposition in the Bundestag and the coalition government has adopted its anti-immigrant policies. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern responded to the Christchurch massacre with hypocritical denunciations of racism and appeals for kindness and compassion towards Muslims and immigrants. She has been depicted virtually as a saint in countless articles in the American, British and Australian media. The international campaign to glorify Ardern is based on the most shameless lies and distortions. The aim is to cover up the fact that her Labour Party-led coalition government, and all the parties in parliament, have created the conditions for the growth of the extreme right by supporting wars abroad and whipping up xenophobia at home. For more than a hundred years, the Labour Party has advanced anti-immigrant and nationalist policies and viciously opposed the internationalist program of socialism to unite workers of every country against the capitalist and nation-state system. Following the Russian Revolution, Labour supported racist White New Zealand legislation to severely restrict immigration from China and other Asian countries. The first Labour government, elected during the Great Depression in 1935, had an anti-Semitic immigration policy and accepted only a small handful of Jewish refugees fleeing the Nazis. Like social democratic parties throughout the world, in the years following the 2008 financial crash, Labour scapegoated foreigners for the sharp drop in living standards caused by brutal austerity measures supported by all the major parties. Jacinda Ardern campaigned in the 2017 election demanding a major cut to immigration, which Labour and the trade unions scapegoated for low wages, unemployment and the refusal of successive governments to provide enough housing, health care or other basic services. Labour formed a coalition with the anti-immigrant New Zealand First Party, which has frequently demonised Asian and Muslim immigrants, using language similar to the Christchurch shooters manifesto. New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is now playing a leading role in determining foreign and defense policy and cementing the countys alignment with US war preparations against China. To prevent public discussion about the striking similarity between Tarrants ideology and the racism and xenophobia spouted by the established political parties, New Zealands chief censor has suppressed the Christchurch terrorists manifesto. This anti-democratic decision means anyone found in possession of the document is threatened with up to 10 years in prison. The manifesto also makes clear Tarrants hatred of Marxism and socialism, his admiration for the trade unions nationalist and anti-immigrant policies, and sympathy for the military and police, which he estimated in Europe employ hundreds of thousands of right-wing nationalists. There is palpable anger among masses of people that the Christchurch atrocityNew Zealands worst-ever mass shooting outside wartimewas not prevented, despite the immense resources and powers of the police and spy agencies in New Zealand and Australia. Not only did these agencies turn a blind eye to warnings of anti-Muslim and neo-Nazi violence; it has been revealed that the police deliberately shielded Tarrant. In 2016, the Christchurch shooter sent a death threat to an opponent of the racist United Patriots Front, which stated: [I]f you are a Marxist I hope you one day meet the rope. This threat was reported to the police in Melbourne, who dismissed it and made no record of the complaint. The political explanation for this is that the state sympathises with the extreme right and shares its hostility to Marxism. Governments are terrified by the growing support for socialism among workers and the resurgence of mass strikes and protests in France, Poland, the United States, Mexico, Algeria, India and other countries, including New Zealand. To defend capitalist rule requires police state measures, including imprisoning journalists and whistleblowers like Assange and Manning, and the mobilisation of extreme right-wing forces against the working class. The Christchurch massacre is being exploited to justify attacks on democratic rights, including free speech on the internet, on the pretext of combating hate speech or extremism. Such measures will be used against socialists, anti-war groups and workers, such as nurses in New Zealand and the yellow vests in France, who have organised and shared information on social media. There is widespread opposition to the far right internationally, as demonstrated at vigils throughout New Zealand and Australia, mass protests against Trumps election and against the Alternative for Germany. Millions of workers and youth can see the danger and are determined to fight to prevent a repeat of the horrors of the twentieth century. The vital lesson of the 1930s and 1940s is that fascism cannot be defeated by appealing to the state or capitalist parties, but only through the fight to overthrow capitalism and build a socialist society. That is why the urgent political task facing everyone listening today is to join and help build the ICFI as the conscious socialist leadership of the working classindependent and opposed to the established parties, the trade unions and their pseudo-left cheerleaders, which have all helped to create the toxic environment of nationalism, xenophobia and militarism. Forecasts predict that far-right parties will make considerable gains in this months European elections. According to opinion polls, the right-wing extremist group in the European parliament, Europe of Nations and Freedom (ENF), could increase its seats from 37 to 63. The Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy (EFDD) group could win around 40 seats, and the European Conservatives and Reformers (ECR), which has shrunk from 70 to 54 during the current legislative period, could win 58 seats. The Hungarian Fidesz of Viktor Orban, which was recently suspended by the Conservative European Peoples Party (EPP), is expected to win 14 seats. In total, openly right-wing extremist parties can expect to win up to 175 seats in the European Parliament, whose size shrinks from 751 to 705 in the case that Britain leaves the European Union (EU) before the election. The ENF includes the French Rassemblement National (National Rally) of Marine Le Pen, the Italian Lega of Matteo Salvini, the Austrian Freedom Party (FPO) of Heinz-Christian Strache, the Dutch Partij voor de Vrijheid (PVV) of Geert Wilders and several minor far-right parties. The EFDD, which initially also included the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP), previously led by Nigel Farage, and the Italian Five-star Movement of Beppe Grillo, is now dominated by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD). In addition to the Polish governing party PiS of Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the ECR also includes the Danish Peoples Party, the Sweden Democrats, the neo-fascist Fratelli dItalia and, to date, the British Tories. The growth of right-wing extremist parties does not reflect a move to the right in broader sections of working people and youth. The mood among these layers tends more to the left, and is manifesting itself in a growing number of protests and strikes. For the first time in a long while, strikes for better wages and working conditions have hit not only western European countries but also large parts of eastern Europe. In Hungary, for example, there were mass protests against the slave law of the Orban government, and in Poland, 300,000 teachers went on strike for weeks against starvation wages and the PiS government. In Germany, the number of days lost due to strikes increased fourfold to around 1 million last year and the number of those participating in strikes rose tenfold to 1.2 million. In addition, there were mass protests against high rents, Internet censorship and xenophobia. The growth of the extreme right is the response of the ruling classes to this increasing militancy. It is the result of the systematic political, ideological and organisational support provided to right-wing extremists by the media, the establishment parties and the state. This is particularly evident in the European election campaign. The core demands of the right-wing extremiststhe hermetic sealing off of Europes external borders against refugees, their detention in camps, the establishment of an all-embracing surveillance and security apparatus, the censorship of the press and the Internet, the massive increase in armaments for the militaryhave become the official policies of the EU. In the book, Why are they back? , the vice-chairman of the Sozialistische Gleichheitspartei (Socialist Equality Party, SGP), Christoph Vandreier, demonstrates in detail how in Germany, the rise of the AfD was systematically prepared and promoted at the universities, in the editorial offices and in the state apparatus. Today, this far-right party sets the tone in German politics, despite receiving only 13.6 percent of the vote. It heads the official opposition in the Bundestag (parliament), where it chairs important committees and is omnipresent in the media. The secret service has labelled the critics of the right-wing extremist party as left-wing extremists, placing them under surveillance, while giving the AfD and its neo-Nazi periphery a clean bill of health. Similar books could be written about every other European country. Everywhere, the right-wing extremists owe their entry into parliament and their rise to leading state and government offices to the support they receive from the ruling class. They now sit in government in 10 out of 28 EU member states. Not only conservative, but supposedly left-wing parties have allied themselves with them. For example, in Greece, after their election victory in January 2015, Syriza immediately formed an alliance with the far-right Independent Greeks, in order to push through the EUs austerity diktats against the working class. Right-wing extremists now systematically use their access to the state apparatus to push forward their agenda. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban (Fidesz) and Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini (Lega) met in Hungary last Thursday to forge a pact for a new Europe. Orban celebrated Salvini as a hero who has stopped immigration across the sea. Salvini called Orban a point of focus for Europe. Both vowed to work closely together to stop immigration, described by Orban as the greatest challenge history presents us.. On Monday, the Austrian Freedom Party (FPO) leader and vice-chancellor, Heinz-Christian Strache, is expected in Budapest for the same purpose, and on May 13, Orban will be received in Washington by President Donald Trump. Orban and Fidesz are the product of capitalist restoration in Hungary and the decades-long efforts of the Western powers to suppress any opposition to its devastating consequences. Fidesz was founded in 1988 as a liberal student organisation with massive help from the West. At that time, Orbans patrons also included the American-Hungarian billionaire George Soros, whom Orban has since declared to be the main enemy of the state in an anti-Semitic campaign. Fidesz played an important role in the fall of the Stalinist regime in the fall of 1989. After a first period in office from 1998 to 2002, Orban only succeeded in coming to power again in 2010. He owed this primarily to the right-wing policies of the post-Stalinist Socialist Party, which had been completely discredited by a corruption scandal. Since then, he has been trying to establish a dictatorial regime by suppressing any social opposition through ultranationalist policies and closing down any independent press and judiciary. Orban received support from the European Peoples Party (EPP), of which Fidesz remains a member till today. Especially the German Christian Democrats (CSU/CDU) and the Austrian Peoples Party have regarded Orban as a welcome guest, even when his dictatorial inclinations were obvious. For years, Chancellor Angela Merkel resisted demands to exclude Fidesz from the EPP. It was only when Orban organised a poster campaign against EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, himself a member of the EPP, that relations cooled and Fidesz was suspended by the EPP. But Orban insists on staying in the EPP. He responded to Salvinis calls to join the far-right ENF by proposing to include the Lega in the EPP, to which Salvini said he was not averse. If the EPP embraced Orbans views, it would be a pleasure to work with it, Salvini responded. The proposal is not outlandish. After some initial hesitation, the EPP included Silvio Berlusconis Forza Italia in its ranks. The media czar, with his close ties to the underworld, ruled together with neo-fascists and the then regional party Lega Nord, which he helped gain national influence by including them in his government. In Austria, which borders Hungary, the conservative Austrian Peoples Party (OVP) has been governing for one and a half years together with the right-wing extremist FPO, which heads the Interior, European, Defence and Labour ministries. Here, too, the FPO uses its power systematically to bring the media and justice system into line and propagate right-wing extremist views. This is underscored by the outrage on the right surrounding Austrias most famous television presenter, Armin Wolf, which has dominated the headlines for days. FPO Youth Organisation poster compared to an anti-Semitic cartoon from the Nazi Sturmer newspaper, shown in the ZIB2 newscast In news programme ZIB2 on the public broadcaster ORF, Wolf had confronted the FPOs lead candidate for the European elections, Harald Vilimsky, with neo-Nazi statements from his partya poem by the mayor of Braunau (Hitlers birthplace), equating immigrants with rats, and a xenophobic poster of the FPO youth organisation, which Wolf compared with an anti-Semitic caricature from the Nazi rag Der Sturmer. Vilimsky subsequently demanded Wolf be fired and taken off the air. FPO leader Strache, the chairman of ORFs Foundation Council Norbert Steger, and other high-ranking FPO politicians called the interview disgusting, perverted or compared it with the infamous Peoples Court of the Nazis. Steger advised Wolf to take a break.. Strache had previously published a picture of Wolf on Facebook with the headline, There is a place where lies become news. Thats ORF. As usual in such cases, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz practiced the wisdom of Solomon. Such a dispute serves Armin Wolf, perhaps also the Freedom Party. However, it was not good for the country, he said, and continued his alliance with the FPO regardless. The promotion of the extreme right by the state and the establishment parties shows that only an independent movement of the working class can halt the real danger. The fight against right-wing extremism and fascism is inextricably linked to the struggle for a socialist programme against its cause, capitalism. This is what the Socialist Equality Party is fighting for in the European elections. In our election manifesto, we say that the SGP is participating in the European elections to counter the rise of the extreme right, growing militarism and glaring social inequality. Together with our sister parties in the Fourth International, we are fighting across Europe against the EU and to unite the continent on a socialist basis. Only in this way, can the relapse into fascist barbarism and war be prevented. One student is dead and seven are injured after two gunmen opened fire in a Highlands Ranch, Colorado charter school on Tuesday afternoon. The shooters, described only as one adult and one juvenile, were taken into custody by police. Shortly before 2 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon, the two shooters entered STEM School Highlands Ranch, a charter school with an enrollment of 1,850 students from Kindergarten through 12th grade, and opened fire in two separate locations within the high school area. In the ensuing chaos, students and teachers fled the school; at least one student fleeing the scene had been shot and took shelter along with others in a neighboring house as he awaited medical care. School staff alerted the local police as soon as shots were heard. Officers entered the school quickly, ordering a lockdown of all schools in the area. Field officers with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) were called in as well. Helicopters hovered as parents gathered anxiously in a reunification area, hoping to be reunited with their children. Eight students, all ages 15 and older, were taken to local hospitals with gunshot wounds. By late evening, it was reported that one of those students, an 18-year-old boy, had died of his wounds. Police have remained quiet about the identities of the suspects or their possible motives. They have stated that officers struggled to apprehend the two, both of whom were taken into custody. Law enforcement now awaits a warrant to search the car of one of the suspects, as well as their homes. STEM School Highlands Ranch lies about eight miles southeast of Columbine, where Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris killed 12 of their fellow students and one teacher before taking their own lives in 1999. Along with other schools in the area, Highlands Ranch held a vigil to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Columbine shooting less than three weeks ago. The Columbine shooting left an indelible mark upon American society. Klebold and Harris had carefully planned their attack, coordinating it with both Hitlers birthday and the anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing of 1995. They had armed themselves with pipe bombs, guns and ammunition. They charted the traffic flow into and out of the school building in order to maximize the number of shootings. They planned to detonate a giant bomb after they had finished shooting, and they had stowed explosives in the school kitchen towards that end. Their aspirations did not end with the shooting and bombing of their school. Three years before hijackers weaponized planes and flew them into the Pentagon and the World Trade Center, Eric Harris journal detailed goals of hijacking a plane and crashing it into the center of New York City. In the aftermath of the Columbine killings, schools across the United States installed metal detectors and forced students to carry their personal effects in transparent plastic bags. Rapid action plans were drawn up and initiated by police officers and school districts. Shootings such as 2007 shooting at Virginia Tech, which claimed 33 lives, and the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut, which claimed 28, led to ubiquitous police being embedded in schools as school resource officers (SROs) and active shooter drills. Despite these efforts the shootings have continued. Last year marked a record number of 94 school shootings, the highest number recorded since 1970; fifty-five people perished in those shootings. Leading up to the April 20 anniversary of the mass shooting, Denver-area schools, including Columbine High School, were closed as police hunted for Sol Pais, an 18-year-old Florida woman who was reportedly obsessed with Klebold and Harris killing spree. Pais had come to the Denver area on April 15, purchasing a pump-action shotgun and ammunition immediately upon her arrival. Her body was discovered at the base of Mount Evans on April 17, a single self-inflicted gunshot wound the apparent cause of death. Despite the continued shootings and the traumatic active shooter drills, however, many of the parents at STEM Highlands Ranch felt that their children would be relatively safe at the small public charter school with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The school has never employed SROs, relying, instead, upon private security. Nyki Giasolli, whose daughter witnessed part of the shooting, told NBC reporters, We chose a small school because we thought theyd be safer, because we thought that everybody would know everybody. Giasollis sentiment eerily echoes that of Columbine parents in 1999. Columbine was a well-funded school in the middle of an affluent community. Its students were offered a broad array of academic and extracurricular activities. As both the Highlands Ranch and Columbine shootings reveal, though, no school is immune to the social pressures that produce these tragedies. In the 20 years since Harris and Klebold opened fire on their classmates, the United States has waged a never-ending war on terror. The US military has committed countless atrocities in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Yemen, Pakistan and Somalia. The intelligence apparatus has operated numerous black sites, where torture and murder are the rule instead of the exception. Domestically, civilian police are armed and trained like occupying soldiers, and four separate presidents have maintained and expanded an electronic surveillance apparatus aimed at American citizens. Social inequality continues to grow. There is a seemingly bottomless coffer for war, border patrols, and domestic spying. At the same time, education, healthcare and nutritional programs are made to operate on a shoe-string budget. Indeed, in many schools, students are forced to sit in overcrowded and undersupplied classrooms, without access to nurses, counselors or social workers while costly metal detectors, security personnel and SROs are abundant. The unending wave of school shootings highlights the American ruling classs disinterest in the safety and well-being of societys youngest and most vulnerable members. Like the increase in youth suicides, it points to deeply ingrained inequality and the despair it engenders. The answer to this growing crisis is the political mobilization of the American working class, in unity with workers internationally, fighting for socialism, meaning the reorganization of society to meet human need, not private profit. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) held election public meetings in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, Australias three largest cities, last weekend, called to defend jailed WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and whistleblower Chelsea Manning. The meetings were attended by students, unemployed youth, workers and retirees. SEP election candidates outlined the anti-war, socialist and internationalist program the party is advancing in Australias May 18 election. Speakers warned that the imprisonment of Assange and Manning was an attack on the democratic rights of the working class and an integral part of the preparations for further imperialist wars. A Facebook Livestream video of the reports to the Sydney meeting The Sydney meeting, which was livestreamed on Facebook, was addressed by Oscar Grenfell, the SEPs candidate for the lower house seat of Parramatta, John Davis, one of the partys Senate candidates for New South Wales, and SEP National Committee member Nick Beams. Peter Byrne In Melbourne, the speakers were Peter Byrne, the SEP candidate for the lower house of Calwell, Tessa Pietsch for the Senate, and SEP National Committee member Patrick OConnor. In Brisbane, the meeting was addressed by Mike Head, the partys candidate for Oxley, and SEP Assistant National Secretary Cheryl Crisp. In Sydney, Grenfell explained why the SEPs election campaign was centrally raising the defence of Assange and Manning. He reviewed WikiLeaks powerful exposure of US war crimes, and the lies and corruption by governments and corporations internationally. The struggle to secure the release of Assange and Manning was critical, he said, and inseparable from the political fight that must be waged by the working class in defence of freedom of speech and its own basic democratic rights. Grenfell denounced the media slanders against Assange and the bogus allegations that he was a Russian agent. These lies, he said, are part and parcel of a broader McCarthyite campaign, which has been used to restrict access to socialist and anti-war publications, including the WSWS, and to expand the preparations for war. Oscar Grenfell addressing the Sydney meeting The speaker explained the role of one Australian government after another in assisting the persecution of Assange. The political establishment is committed to the US alliance, to participating in American imperialisms wars, and to suppressing those who expose them. Senate candidate John Davis told the meeting that Assange and WikiLeaks had played a profound role in his own politicisation and that of an entire generation. John Davis The revelations of imperialist war crimes, government spying and the deep corruption within the capitalist profit system, he said, has seriously impacted the way that young people see and understand the world we live in A teenager today has never known a world in which the United States is not at war in the Middle East. WikiLeaks has played a crucial part in exposing the criminal nature of these wars. SEP national committee member Nick Beams said Assanges arrest was a turning point in world politics. It was another demonstration that the ruling elites everywhere were moving to establish dictatorial and authoritarian forms of rule. The speaker reviewed the deepening crisis of the capitalist profit system and the increasingly vocal ruling class concerns about the growing leftward movement of the international working class and the increasing interest, especially among young people, in socialism. Nick Beams The growing support for socialism is of profound significance, Beams said. It arises because socialism expresses and is lodged in the elemental drive of the working class, a revolutionary classnot just an exploited classto reconstruct society on new foundations. Beams concluded by warning, however, that the working class required a socialist and internationalist perspective and a revolutionary party to provide the necessary leadership. He urged those in attendance to participate in the SEPs election campaign and to join the party to build the revolutionary socialist leadership that the working class urgently needed. Extended question and answer sessions followed the reports at all the meetings, and a combined total of more than $2,400 was donated to the partys election fund. In Sydney, the discussion continued for over an hour. Audience members asked about the right to political asylum and its historic origins, the support for Assange in Ecuador, media censorship, and the refusal of the trade unions, including the journalists unions, to defend the WikiLeaks publisher. A Transport Workers Union member denounced the lack of democracy in the unions and told the meeting that it was not possible to defend Assange through these organisations. Another audience member was applauded when she denounced the British judiciarys brutal and biased treatment of Assange. Cathy Vogan, from the Consortium News website, explained the illegal character of Ecuadorian President Morenos repudiation of Assanges right to asylum. Joe Lauria Veteran US journalist and current editor-in-chief of Consortium News Joe Lauria said most corporate media journalists had become transcribers for the state. He referred to recent US-government attempts to shut down hundreds of web sites and independent news services. At the Melbourne meeting, which was attended by workers from the Calwell electorate and a contingent of IYSSE members from the University of Melbourne, questions were asked about the role of the media in censoring oppositional voices, what SEP candidates would do if elected to parliament, and on the historical origins of the SEP and its affiliation to the International Committee of the Fourth International. Two people determined to fight for Assanges freedom drove from Moe, a de-industrialised town in the Latrobe Valley, 140 kilometres away, to attend the meeting. It was the first time they had attended an SEP event. Members of the audience at each meeting took bundles of the SEPs election manifesto to distribute. The Melbourne meetings literature stall sold all of its available copies of Why Are They Back?, Christoph Vandreiers book about the re-emergence of fascism in Germany. The authors also recommend: Workers and youth defend Julian Assange and democratic rights at SEP meetings [8 May 2019] Authorised by James Cogan for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000. The row over Shamima Begums application for legal aid to challenge revocation of her British citizenship is a fresh outrage against democratic rights. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, while ostensibly defending her right to legal aid, told the BBC he was very uncomfortable with the decision to grant it. Her lawyer has questioned whether hostile press coverage has been fuelled by the selective leaking of documents from government sources. Having been groomed online, Begum left Britain in 2015 to join the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria along with two school friends. She was 15 when she left east London. The police were fully aware that Begum was being groomed. A letter from the police saying they wanted to interview her was found in her bag after she left. In Syria she married a Dutch Islamist, Yago Riedjik, and they had two children who died. A third child, born in a refugee camp while she was seeking the right to return to the UK in February, also died. Last year, Home Secretary Sajid Javid revoked Begums British citizenship, saying he would use all [his] power to prevent anyone who joined IS from returning to Britain. Declaring Begum a threat to the safety and security of Britain and the people who live here, he left her and her new-born baby stranded in appalling conditions and stateless. Javid implied she would not be made stateless as she would be entitled to hereditary Bangladeshi citizenship. Dhaka rejected this as she had never visited the country, held a Bangladeshi passport, or even applied for one. Bangladeshi Minister for Foreign Affairs, Abdul Momen, has since reiterated the position more strongly. We have nothing to do with Shamima Begum She was born in England and her mother is British. Momen went further, saying that if she went to Bangladesh and had been involved with IS she would face the death penalty. If anyone is found to be involved with terrorism, we have a simple rule. There will be capital punishment. And nothing else. Javids actions stoked a vicious storm of xenophobia and anti-Muslim sentiment. Under the guise of attacking a reactionary Islamist network that the British government has been protecting and using for its imperialist regime-change operations, his actions were aimed at eviscerating a whole framework of legal and democratic rights. Her family appealed to Javid to help secure the return of Begum and her then surviving child to the UK as a matter of urgency. Mohammed Tasnime Akunjee, the familys lawyer, said they were exploring all legal avenues to challenge the decision to make her stateless. Akunjee is acting for others in Syrian camps whose citizenship has been revoked. He has warned that the number of cases is likely to grow. According to government figures, 104 people were stripped of citizenship in 2017up from 14 the year beforewith a further nine temporary exclusion orders issued. The justification was that their presence in the UK was not conducive to the public good. The routine and increasing use of citizenship deprivation orders was invalidated by a decision of the Special Immigration Appeals Commission last November to restore citizenship to two British nationals made stateless by the government. Like Begum, they also had a Bangladeshi family background. In Begums case, the argument presented by Javid and other government figures was that she was fully aware of what she was doing when she left for Syria. Given the level of state protection and support for Islamist groups, who have acted as proxy forces for the UK in wars in Libya and Syria, it is probable that they had a better idea of what a 15-year-old child was doing than she did. This argument has been presented with renewed force since Begums lawyers applied for legal aid to challenge the decision. Hunt said Begum had made a series of choices and she knew the choices she was making, so I think we made decisions about her future based on those choices. This comment is revealing. In fact, around 40 percent of the 900 people who have left Britain to fight with IS have already returned to the UKmany of whom will be British assets. Having been subject to a punitive legal decision, however, Begum must be entitled to challenge it legally. As Akunjee explained, Javid initiated a legal process and under that shes entitled to appeal. Legal aid enables her to fund that application with the help of solicitors. As the anonymous blogger, The Secret Barrister, explained, The rule of law requires that those affected have a route to challenge a decision and have an independent court review the evidence and decide whether that decision was taken in accordance with the law. With predictable frenzy, the right-wing press swiftly came to the governments aid. A flurry of articles alleged that Begum had played a more active role in IS activities than previously indicated. The Daily Telegraph described her, without evidence, as a cruel enforcer in the IS morality police, who was allowed to carry a Kalashnikov rifle and sewed suicide vests onto other jihadis. Akunjee noted that the accusations were based on hearsay intelligence reports sent to the Home Office and Downing Street. He questioned how these had selectively come into the public arena, asking whether the Official Secrets Act had been breached. As Hunts comments to the BBC make clear, there is an expectation in British law that people with limited means should have access to the resources of the state if they want to challenge the decisions the state has made about them. As the Secret Barrister put it, if we take the press reports at face value, Would this make her despicable? Yes. Meritorious of opprobrium, disgust, contempt and fury? Yup. A criminal? Among the very worst. Deserving of legal aid? Without a shadow of a doubt. Budget cuts have already severely restricted access to legal aid. The 2013 Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act (LASPO) cut the legal aid budget by 751 million, one third of the total. As Charles Falconer, Lord Chancellor under Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair, has acknowledged, the Conservative-led coalitions LASPO was helped along by the previous Labour government going so hard on the offensive in trying to control the budget. Huge areas of legal advice, especially around welfare benefits, were removed from its coverage. The number of firms providing legal aid has fallen drastically, by 20 percent in England and 29 percent in Wales. There are now only 43 centres in England offering specialist advice for those who cannot afford to pay a lawyer. There are none in Wales. The Law Society talks of legal aid deserts. Legal aid payments do not go to the client but to the lawyers and are set far below market rates. In the 1980s, 79 percent of the population was eligible for legal aid. By 2015 this had fallen to just 25 percent. In the eight years to 2018 the number of people accessing legal aid dropped by 82 percent. The media frenzy against Begum is an attempt to justify further restrictions on eligibility. It seeks to cut away legal recourse against the actions of the state. Corey Stoughton of human rights group Liberty warned that Begums case could have widespread repercussions in how the government uses dramatic powers to take away fundamental rights. Workers, students and retirees attending Socialist Equality Party election meetings in Melbourne and Sydney last weekend denounced the Australian governments role in the US-led persecution of Julian Assange and explained why they were supporting the SEP. Anita, a retail worker from the south-eastern Melbourne suburb of Sandringham came to the SEPs election meeting following a recent discussion in her workplace lunchroom. Anita with SEP Senate candidate Tessa Pietsch Everybody was talking about Labor and Liberal, and [Clive] Palmer and all of those but people were not very happy about it, Anita said. We were asking, what kind of choice is there? And a bunch of uni students said that there is a choice, the Socialist Equality Party. I thought, whats the SEP? They told me it was a party of the working class, educating students and workers, which was really nice to hear, so I Googled it. But nothing relevant came up! I now know that this is because of Googles censorship which was discussed in the meeting. Its not right. I am a very passionate supporter of Julian Assange. Its very good that somebodys doing something. All the other parties, especially the major parties like Labor and Liberal, and the Greensand Palmer who seems to be the big thing at the momentare saying nothing about Julian. Why is Assange in jail but not Blair, Bush or Howard? They went to Iraq, went into someones backyard and bombed them. The US goes there, bombs the hell out of them, creates a big vacuum, then theres ISIS. They are the criminals who should be in jail. The Australian government should be totally ashamed of itself. Porter, a first year University of Melbourne student, said: The meeting was really interesting. It was good to meet the candidates up close and hear them speak about the broader issues facing workers and young people. The analysis was absolutely correct. The persecution of Assange and Manning is an attack on the democratic rights of everyone. Id heard of WikiLeaks when I was a kid and admired Assange. I was only 9- or 10-years old, but I saw the [Collateral Murder] video and was disgusted. Politicians have a vested interest in keeping these kinds of people behind bars, so it will require a broad mobilisation of people to save Assange and defend our rights. Frank Frank, a retired worker from Newcastle, attended the Sydney meeting after reading WSWS for about three weeks. I came here to support Julian Assange and Chelsea Manning, he stated. Their treatment by a huge number of organisations in the world has been disgusting. I subscribed to the WSWS Newsletter on the basis of Assange and found that no other political parties in Australia were covering it. Im traditionally a Greens voter and supporter. I emailed [Greens leader] Di Natales office and the response I got was less than encouraging. Ive decided that the only party trying to look after the best interests of Assange and Manning is the SEP and I fully support the international aspect of your efforts. I am an internationalist. In so many matters today, we are not a series of sovereign countries but are an international group of people living on this planet. From the globalisation of trade, to climate change and so on, we are not a group of tribes, but one species on a fragile planet, dictated to by some very bad people. A telecom worker here, working in a pit, is little different from a telecom worker in China working in a pit. Theres a commonality in their work, and a commonality in their aspirations and needs for justice. The meeting today showed me there are so many like-minded people and I was impressed by the number of intelligent questions. Its clear for those that want to see that we live in a very disjointed world, where fairness has gone out the window. Michael Michael, a taxi driver and long time reader of the WSWS, was attending his first SEP event. I thought the discussion today was great and Im impressed with the organisation, he said. Its one thing to be hot under the collar about issues and to be vocal, its quite another to be organised enough to convey those beliefs into meaningful action. Thats where I see this organisation coming into it. During the Q&A session Michael asked about the corporate and anti-democratic nature of the unions. I agree completely with your analysis of the unions, he said. I joined the Transport Workers Union in the early eighties after being a waterside worker in Auckland and spending five years in the NSW railways. Id seen a fair spectrum of how the unions operate. Ive also experienced the TWU through working as a taxi driver. Its a situation where the workers are sold right down the drain by all kinds of forces within the union movement and the periphery of the union movement, the Industrial Relations Commissions, the Fair Work Commission. After three decades of involvement I have been absolutely disgusted. The persecution of Assange and Manning, Michael said, Is all to do with the power structures that hold this whole edifice together. Its all about the nexus between government and big business. Joyce Joyce, a pensioner, commented: Im very upset about the treatment of Julian Assange. Its very sad that someone is persecuted just for telling the truth. We have a right to know. Im disgusted at the media, which is smearing him and telling lies. The government is ignoring Julian Assange and they should be ashamed of themselves. If we dont have information and we dont have the truth and know what the government is doing, how can we fix the problems of austerity and poverty? Ive always followed the SEP on Facebook, but because they are defending Julian Assange Ive become more interested. I think its role is wonderful and Im giving the SEP my first preference vote. Its the only party in Australia that will defend Julian Assange. There has been a deafening silence from the media and the government about Julian Assange. I have been putting up on social media shame on the Australian government for not protecting one of its own. Tom Tom, a truck driver from Sydneys western suburbs, said: Ive been defending Julian Assange for a long time, since he first started getting hounded by the Swedish government. Im concerned about human rights and a lack of freedom all over the world, along with the spread of fascism. For governments, Julian Assange is public enemy number one because he tells the truth. But what Julian Assange and WikiLeaks have published is simply information from governments themselves. It is therefore correct information. Governments are worried about workers learning the truth because it will impinge on their market share. The truth will get governments nowhere. Labor, Liberal and the Greens think people are idiots and they want people to stay idiots. Robin Robyn, a young factory worker, said: The discussion at the meeting was very clear and relevant. I dont think theres any other forum thats available where this kind of informationthe clear censorship of information relating to human rights violations, the violation of domestic law and international lawis being discussed, I came because the defence of Assange and Manning is a central international issue that the world has to be focused on. There are war crimes committed to this day. Assange and a lot of whistle blowers out there are willing to release information that we have a right to know about. There are wars and there are famines. The face of the planet is being destroyed and the social fabric is being torn apart. I understood that America is everywhere, causing havoc all around the world, but it took me up until now to properly understand what imperialism really is and that its hunger for power and self-enrichment is at the expense of everyone else. Authorised by James Cogan for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000. South African voters go to the polls today, a quarter century after the end of apartheid in 1994. They do so amid chronically high unemployment and vast social inequality worse even than under white minority rule. If the African National Congress (ANC) secures a majority, as expected, this is more a testament to the political rottenness of the main opposition parties than to its continued political authority among broad layers of the working class, the younger generation above all. The sixth election held since the end of apartheid will determine the composition of the National Assembly that forms the basis for the national government. Provincial and local elections are also contested across the country. While nearly 50 parties are fielding candidates, the main challengers to the ruling ANC of President Cyril Ramaphosa, which currently holds the majority with 249 seats in the National Assembly, are the Democratic Alliance (DA) of Mmusi Maimane with 89 seats, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) of former ANC youth leader Julius Malema with 25 seats, and the Zulu-nationalist Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) of Mangosuthu Buthelezi with 10 seats. The DA, EFF, and IFP are all anticipated to increase their share of the vote. But this will be a share of a declining vote, with large numbers expected to abstain. While the government stresses that 75 percent of the country registered to vote ahead of the poll, the Electoral Commission of South Africa has expressed concern that this leaves around 10 million who have notof which the majority, 6 million, are under the age of 30. The electoral commission predicts that voting by those under 20 will be at its lowest level since 1999. The political alienation from and growing hostility towards the ANC are rooted in the partys sacrificing of the jobs, wages and essential social services on which millions rely in the interest of preserving capitalist rule. The ANC articulates the concerns of the South African bourgeoisie, including rich white farmers, as well as global mining corporations exploiting vital resources such as platinum and gold. It is staffed by numerous black millionaires who have enriched themselves through the policies of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) as junior and not-so-junior partners of the major corporations. Ramaphosa is the archetypebecoming one of the richest individuals in the country by trading on his former leadership of the National Union of Mineworkers during the struggle against apartheid. He is now worth an estimated $550 million. His path to the presidency was paved with the blood of the 34 miners massacred in 2012 at Lonmins Marikana operation, while he was the companys BEE partner. While Ramaphosa owned a 9 percent share in the Lonmin, he excoriated the striking mineworkers as criminals, and pressured the authorities to take action. In contrast to this parasitic layer, most black South Africans live in appalling poverty. South Africa remains the most economically unequal country in the world, according to the World Bank, with black workers systematically disadvantaged regarding wages and assets, and in levels of unemployment. With a population of 60 million, South Africa is home to 10 billionaires who collectively control more than US$30 billion. The top 1 percent own 70 percent of the countrys wealth, while the bottom 60 percent own a mere 7 percent. The unemployment rate in South Africa stands at 27.5 percent, with the jobless rate for young people ages 18 to 35 standing at nearly 50 percent. With more than half of the population living below the poverty line, another survey found that this meant half of South Africans are in households with per capita income of US$90 or less a month. Only 13 percent of all South Africans earn more than US$6,000 a year. Basic services such as electricity and running water are non-existent in many townships, leading to frequent protests, while the education system is such that nearly 80 percent of nine- and ten-year-olds are only semi-literate. Speaking to Reuters regarding her reason for not voting , 20-year-old Petronela Mukhine, an unemployed resident of Alexandra, an impoverished section of Johannesburg, spoke of the ANC governments lack of concern for regular people. Theyre all doing the bare minimum. We need change. A lot of people are unemployed, most of them dont have houses. They stay in shacks and its not safe. The ruling ANC, relying cynically on its credentials as leading the fight against apartheid, therefore no longer resonates with broad layers of South African youth. Financial markets have indicated why they are lining up behind the ANC and see a strong win as a boost to their fortunes. Colin Coleman, chief of sub-Saharan Africa at Goldman Sachs Group Inc., told Bloomberg, We need to get out of this election a strong mandate for structural reforms. He went on to underline Ramaphosas non-negotiable aim to privatise state-owned assets, a move international banks and corporations are directing the ruling government to accomplish. The ANC is also reported to be losing influence in black middle-class areas that were formerly strongholds, with many citing the endemic corruption within ruling circles and rejecting Ramaphosas pledges of change from the era of former leader Jacob Zuma. Ramaphosas closest challenger, Mmusi Maimane of the DA, is a Christian pastor and former business consultant and a current member of the National Assembly. Maimane has campaigned using empty rhetoric and condemnation of the ANC, pointing out the ruling partys lack of delivering on its promises to improve the economy. Malemas EFF claims to be a radical, left, and anti-capitalist and anti-imperialist movement, centering its propaganda on demands for the seizure of white-owned estates and, less forthrightly, demands for nationalisation of key industries. This is pure demagogy, designed to secure a place at the table for the corrupt layers at the head of the EFF. Malema himself has an estimated personal wealth of $2 million. Despite officially earning $2,800 a month he owns several luxury villas, drives a Mercedes and wears a $17,000 Breitling watch. He is, in short, a lower-ranking tenderpreneurstill living off the business contracts secured during his time with the ANC. The ANC has also recognised the benefit of making empty promises on the land issue. It has pledged to implement a programme of land seizure from white farmers, without compensation. But it stresses that implementation would require a 67 percent electoral majority to change the constitution. The ANC has long relied on the backing of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), part of the Triple Alliance along with the ANC and the South African Communist Party. But this collusion with the ANC and the bourgeoisie has severely undermined the standing of the unions. In a rear-guard action seeking to rescue some measure of popular support, the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA), the largest with 350,000 members, formed a federation with some smaller unions and a political vehicle, the Socialist Revolutionary Workers Party. Its prospects in the election are slight, but its existence is proof that the union bureaucracy fears a genuine political realignment of the working class to the left. In the absence of such a development, the election is a contest between rival groups of bourgeois politicians, vying over how best to carve up South Africas economic resources and exploit its vast working class for the profits of international banks and corporations. gettyimagesbank By Jhoo Dong-chan The nation's initial public offering (IPO) market has continued last year's downtrend. Expectations were high about a series of possible huge share sales earlier this year, but fear is now growing among investors that last year's sluggish market may be prolonged throughout the year as unlisted big names, such as Homeplus real estate investment trust (REIT) and Bodyfriend, failed to list themselves. In March, Homeplus REIT, backed by private equity firm MBK Partners, withdrew its plan to go public. It hoped to raise up to 1.7 trillion won ($1.5 billion) through the IPO, but demand fell short of expectations. "Domestic investors are still unfamiliar with large REIT offerings in Korea. Overseas demand also fell short of expectations," a Homeplus official said. Massage chair maker Bodyfriend also attempted to list itself on the Seoul bourse only to fail last month. It applied for an IPO earlier this year, but the Korea Exchange (KRX) did not give approval in a preliminary screening last month because of a series of scandals involving the company's management. Bodyfriend immediately withdrew its plan after the announcement. "We accept the KRX decision," a Bodyfriend official said. "We will do our best to improve the company's governance." There were eight unlisted big names anticipated to go public by the first half of the year, but only two of them managed to list themselves. The two were Hyundai Motor Group's IT service unit Hyundai AutoEver and smartphone sensor maker Dreamtech. The remaining six firms either withdrew or postponed their planned IPO. "Fear is there," said a domestic brokerage worker who asked not to be named. "Last year's downtrend is being seemingly reiterated, especially for big-name firms to be listed on the KOSPI. There are still a number of firms who want to be listed on the Kosdaq, but expectations aren't really as high as before." According to the KRX, four firms landed in the benchmark KOSPI between January and April. The two other companies were Woori Financial Group and DoubleU Games. DoubleU Games had been listed on the Kosdaq, but transferred to the KOSPI in March. Woori Financial Group was relisted on the bourse after it transformed itself into a holding company. The Sri Lankan government has unleashed a crackdown, mainly targeting Muslims, following the horrific April 21 bomb attacks on three Catholic churches and three hotels that killed more than 250 men, women and children, and injured some 500 more. The government immediately seized upon the attack to impose draconian emergency regulations and deploy thousands of security and police officers. The opposition parties and the media have aligned themselves with the governments campaign. The fact that the attack was apparently carried out by the Islamic fundamentalist ISIS, in coordination with the Sri Lankan Muslim extremist group, Thowheeth Jammaath, is being used to whip up anti-Muslim sentiment. President Maithripala Sirisena declared that under the emergency laws, house-to-house checks would be carried out, similar to the operations conducted during Colombos communal war against separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Hundreds of people have been arrested, with many later released. On Monday, police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said 73 persons had been detained and were under police interrogation. In another operation, a Colombo magistrate released nine of the 16 workers arrested from a factory in Colombos suburbs. The police claimed they suspected the factory had been used to manufacture bombs for the attacks. The magistrate released the workers when police failed to file any specific charges against them. Reports have appeared of police finding explosives, swords, incriminating literature and suspicious places in many parts of the country, showing the widespread nature of the police operations. President Sirisena amended the emergency regulations last week to include a ban on wearing face-covering clothsthat is burqas and niqabs, the traditional attire of Muslim women. It follows bans on the wearing of burqas in several European countries that were used to incite anti-Muslim hostility. After the April bomb attacks, over 1,000 Muslim refugees sheltered in Negombo, compelled to flee their houses because of threats by Sinhala mobs. Some were subjected to physical attack. Having previously fled from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran, they are now living temporarily in mosques and police stations. Tariq Ahmed, a 58-year-old Pakistani from the Ahamadyya community, told the Associated Press: The people in Pakistan attacked us and say were not Muslims. Then in Sri Lanka, people attack us because they say we are Muslims. People who spoke to the WSWS expressed outrage over the targeting of innocent people. Many were conscious that the ruling elite was seeking to strengthen its repressive measures and divide working people along ethnic lines. A teacher from Chilaw said: Whoever did this crime [the terrorist bombings], only ordinary people are suffering. We cannot go onto the streets. We cannot go to the hospital. Everyone looks at us with suspicion. However, we have no problem from the Catholic people in our village and live with harmony. Citing the arrival of an FBI group to assist investigations into the attacks, she said the US had exploited the situation to its advantage. It was the US which invaded the Middle East and destroyed those societies, she said. The teacher was also aware that the government and the trade unions are trying to use the emergency to suppress workers struggles. Referring to a one-day teachers protest in March, she said: All the teachers, including the Sinhalese, Muslims and Tamils, went on strike to win our wage demand. The unions are now completely silent regarding the wage struggle and other issues for teachers. A young engineer said he had worked at a private firm after finishing his degree but resigned because of the low wages. Now, it is difficult to find a job, because I am a Muslim. There are comments on social media saying that all Muslim people are terrorists. Many Muslims were arrested in a police search operation at Dharga Town near Aluthgama in the Kaluthara district. In June 2014, Muslims in this area faced attacks by thugs provoked by the extremist Bodu Bala Sena (Buddhist Brigade), in which two Muslims were killed. One person in the area told the WSWS: The extremists use terrorist attacks to incite racism but we live in harmony. I can remember that Sinhala Buddhists opposed the attack on us in 2014. I oppose terrorism. Problems cannot be resolved through such means. He said that both he and his father had previously bought saffron robes and bowls from temples and sold them to wholesale shops, but some of the traders had now been arrested. He said it was an attempt to incite Buddhists against Muslims by claiming that Muslims were keeping the robes to wear them and attack temples. A group of people explained that the security forces and media created a provocation against Muslims. They said a youth at Snapula Road was arrested because he had 18 identity cards issued by various companies when he worked in the Middle East. Later, he was released. One of the people explained: The reason for arrest was that the details on the identity cards were in Arabic. He was taken to the [nearby] Welipitiya mosque and videoed, and the media reported that a person with 18 identity cards was arrested. They lied that mosques were related to terrorist activities. A Muslim woman at Snapula Road was arrested because she wore her traditional dress. She was released only after dozens of people intervened. In hospitals, visitors had been barred from entering when they wore a black dress or hijab. A garment businessman commented: Extremism is a political movement. My business has collapsed because of the collapse of the tourist industry. I supported the United National Party. Now I do not support any party. Those who have ruled the country for 70 years are responsible for this situation. Now people need an alternative. Residents at Sirimuthu Mahal at Grandpas and Laksanda at Salamullatwo low income apartment complexes in Colombosaid urban development authority officials had asked them to vacate their homes, citing security reasons. Officials cut the water supply to the Laksanda flats but restored it when residents held protests. Many of the residents are Muslims. The security forces have also targeted the universities, where students have held continued protests against the privatisation of education and demanded better facilities. The Jaffna, Peradeniya, Vayamba and Ruhunu universities were among those where search operations by the security forces were carried out. On May 4, the military raided Jaffna University and arrested the student union president, N. Diwakaran, and secretary, S. Badilraj. The spurious reason given for the arrest was the display in the union office of posters with the picture of V. Prabhakaran, the LTTE leader whom the military killed in 2009 when the LTTE was defeated. Search operations have intensified in the military-occupied north and east of the island. A broader picture is now unfolding. These developments confirm the Socialist Equality Partys warning following the April 21 attacks: The governments anti-Muslim propaganda and so-called fight against terrorism are to provide the pretext for creating a police-state and targeting workers, youth and poor engaged in protests and strikes against government austerity measures. The working class must condemn and oppose the witch-hunt against Muslims and fight for the unity of Sinhala, Muslim and Tamil workers to defend democratic rights on the basis of the struggle for socialist policies. Thousands of drivers for Uber, Lyft and other ride-sharing companies are expected to join in a strike today, logging off their apps at peak hours to press demands for livable wages and job security. Strikes are being planned in major cities throughout the US, as well as in the UK, France, Australia, Nigeria, Kenya, Chile, Brazil, Panama, Costa Rica and Uruguay. The strike action comes the day before Uber stock goes public, with estimates that the sale could increase the companys value by $1020 billion beyond its current appraisal of $80 billion. The action by Uber and Lyft drivers takes place amidst a growing upsurge in the class struggle, from the recent walkout by hundreds of thousands of teachers in Poland to the strike by 70,000 maquiladora workers in Matamoros, Mexico. It coincides with a statewide walkout by teachers in the US state of Oregon, city college and charter school employees in Chicago, and nurses and hospital support staff in Toledo, Ohio. In New York City, the Uber and Lyft strike was voted on last week by drivers in the New York Taxi Workers Alliance (NYTWA). Some 10,000 drivers in the city will not work the busy 7:00 a.m.9:00 a.m. period on Wednesday and will rally outside Uber and Lyft headquarters in Long Island City at 1:00 p.m. In San Francisco, drivers are organizing a protest at Ubers headquarters followed by a twelve-hour app shutoff. In London, drivers will be protesting at Uber headquarters during a nine-hour app shutoff. Graphics circulating for the international strike are using the slogan, Uber IPO: Billions to Bosses, Poverty Pay for Drivers. In New York City, the taxi industry was transformed when a huge influx of app-based cars hit the streets in 2011, causing heated competition. This competition, cost cutting and arbitrary dismissal policies from ride-sharing companies, and the quickly depreciating value of taxi medallions, have driven down working conditions for all drivers. This has led to a tragic string of eight NYC taxi and app-based driver suicides last year. In the wake of these suicides, the city implemented a minimum wage of $17.22/hourafter driver expensesfor app drivers at the beginning of this year. However, according to a 2018 Economic Policy Institute report, the average Uber driver in the US makes only $9.21/hour. These poverty-level wages, which starkly contrast with the millions of dollars that executives and shareholders make, have led to actions by drivers demanding a living wage. In March, hundreds of Uber and Lyft drivers in Los Angeles went on strike in opposition to planned pay cuts and to demand the implementation of a minimum hourly rate matching New York City. Last week, the US Department of Labor issued a ruling defining gig economy workers, such as Uber and Lyft drivers, as independent contractors. This move allows employers to avoid paying workers the federal minimum wage, overtime or providing benefits or workers compensation. In a statement widely circulated on social media, Sonam Lama, a New York City Uber driver since 2015, was quoted in a NYTWA press release as saying, The gig economy is all about exploiting workers by taking away our rights. It must stop. Uber is the worst actor in the gig economy. Uber claims that we are independent contractors even though they set our rates and control our workday. An Uber driver in New York, who wished to remain anonymous, told the World Socialist Web Site, Uber is going public tomorrow, and part of their recently released financial plan is to continually lower driver wages to feed the bottom line for shareholders. They have promised other benefits and opportunities to make up for this, which drivers know from experience is bull. Uber drivers are demanding $1 per mile and $0.20 per minute in fares, as well as overtime and benefits and for the company to restructure their independent contractor employment system. The WSWS pointed out that the walkout by app-based drivers was part of a global upsurge in working class struggle. Im happy to see this quick response from drivers in the wake of all of that. Our wages have been steadily declining in 2019, and once that report was released drivers were rightfully pissed. I used to make between $80$100 in a morning shift, and now Im lucky to see $60. They have also reduced surge payouts by flooding the market with new drivers. They have a bunch of upfront bonuses when you first begin employment, and then they start reducing your pay and taking those away once youve been driving for a while. So they incentivize new drivers and push out old ones. The international character of the Uber and Lyft strike demonstrates the essential unity of the global working class and points to the way forward as increasing numbers of workers move into struggle. Whatever their nationality, workers face exploitation at the hands of the same transnational corporations. The fact that workers at Uber and Lyft are organizing their struggle largely independent of the nationalist trade unions is also of enormous significance. In struggle after struggle, the unions have demonstrated that their role is not to unite, but to divide, workers. The unions are organically tied to the nation-state and to the defense of the capitalist profit system. Workers need new organizations, rank-and-file committees, to coordinate and unify their struggles. The exploitation of Uber, Lyft and other drivers is part of the intensified exploitation of the entire working class. The so-called gig economy now accounts for 34 percent of the US workforce, and this is expected to grow to 43 percent by 2020. Part-time, low-wage and casualized labor has proliferated through the world. Moreover, traditional sections of the working class are confronting Amazonizationthat is, the employment of every means possible to increase exploitation. All the parties of the political establishment are responsible for growing social inequality. In the US, this includes both the Democrats and Republicans. The Trump administration is waging a war on the working classever more directly connected to hostility to socialism. The Democrats have centered their opposition to the Trump administration not on its pro-corporate policies or its fascistic attack on immigrants, but on demands for greater aggression against Russia. There is growing interest in socialism among millions of workers and young people throughout the world. Conditions like those facing ride-sharing drivers are the reason why. Genuine socialism means a radical redistribution of wealth and the transformation of the giant banks and corporations into democratically-controlled utilities. It means the reorganization of economic life on a world scale to meet social need, not private profit. Technological advancesincluding the development of mobile communications and appsmust be used to dramatically improve the conditions of the vast majority of the population, not increase their exploitation. The realization of socialism requires the building of a mass political movement of the working class, independent of all the capitalist parties. The Socialist Equality Party is spearheading this fight. In the wake of the failure of last week attempt by the US and its domestic stooge Juan Guaido to foment a military coup in Venezuela, Canadas Liberal government has reaffirmed its support for Washingtons regime-change operation in the South American country. In addition to statements endorsing the criminal putsch, Justin Trudeaus Liberals are working behind the scenes to orchestrate the establishment of a far-right, pro-imperialist puppet regime in Caracas. The principal means through which Canada is assisting Washington and pursuing its own predatory imperialist interests in Venezuela is the Lima Group, an alliance of US allies in the Americas in which Canada is playing the leading role. Established in 2017 for the ostensible purpose of ending the political and social crisis in Venezuela peacefully, the Lima Group in reality has acted as a front for American imperialisms drive to install a client regime in the country with the worlds largest proven oil reserves. While the Trump administration has explicitly threatened military intervention, which could rapidly escalate into a region-wide conflagration, the Lima Group has publicly declared that, for the present, it opposes any outside military action. But the groups activities are closely coordinated with Washington, with Canada time and again rallying the Lima Group members behind each new US escalation, from declaring Maduros re-election last year illegitimate, to immediately endorsing Guaidos Jan. 23 self-proclamation as the countrys interim president and last weeks attempted military coup. Just hours after Guaido launched his coup, which quickly collapsed due to a lack of popular support and the refusal of any significant section of the military to defect from the bourgeois nationalist Maduro regime, the Lima Group issued a statement that cynically promoted the attempted putsch as an effort to restore democracy to Venezuela. The statement went on to demand that the Venezuelan military cease being instruments of the illegitimate regime for the oppression of the Venezuelan people. That Canada was the driving force behind this propaganda for the US-sponsored coup is beyond doubt. Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland, whose intimate ties to leading members of the US political and financial elite are well known, organized an emergency Lima Group meeting by video conference April 30 to discuss what the Canadian government evidently hoped would be the rapid ouster of Maduro at the hands of Venezuelas military. But the coup bid quickly fizzled, and on the following two days the Maduro regime made a show of force, with large crowds demonstrating in support of the government on May 1 and the president marching with his top military commanders through Caracas the next day. Trudeau responded to the collapse of Guaidos coup by seeking to promote regime change in Caracas by other means. According to a statement from the Prime Ministers Office (PMO), Trudeau spoke with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel about Venezuela late last week. The prime minister, on behalf of the Lima Group, underscored the desire to see free and fair elections and the constitution upheld in Venezuela," declared the statement. "The prime minister also reiterated his concern for the ongoing suffering of the Venezuelan people. The two leaders discussed ways they could work together to support a peaceful resolution to the crisis. The references to free and fair elections and the upholding of the constitution are an utter fraud, aimed at cloaking savage imperialist aggression in humanitarian and democratic garb. Canada, no less than the United States, is eager to get its hands on Venezuelas vast oil reserves, and thereby strengthen the position of its multibillion-dollar mining and financial investments across Latin America. It also shares Washingtons aim of curtailing Russian and Chinese influence in the region. China in particular has emerged as a major investor in South America over the last decade. The PMO statement leaves no doubt that Trudeau was seeking to strong-arm Cuba, which is now the target of enhanced US sanctions, into abandoning its support for Maduro in favour of Guaido. Since Jan. 23 Canada has maintained that Guaido is Venezuelas constitutional president and the incarnation of the democratic aspirations of the Venezuelan people. In reality his self-proclamation as president was a criminal conspiracy orchestrated by the Trump administration, but in which Canada played a significant supporting role. In the days and weeks before Jan. 23, Canadian diplomats, including those on the ground in Venezuela, held meetings with opposition leaders to encourage them to unite and launch a bit to topple Maduro. Trudeaus attempt to bully Cuba, one of Maduros closest allies, is of particular significance. Canada has major economic interests in Cuba and has long served as an intermediary between Havana and Washington. Ottawa is now trying to leverage those ties to prevail on Havana to use its diplomatic connections with the Maduro regime to facilitate the defection of important sections of it behind the US puppet Guaido. Trudeaus initiative comes as the Trump administration is increasing its pressure on Canada to adopt a harder line towards Cuba. Last month, Trump lifted the ban on US citizens suing companies who do business in Cuba using property seized from American companies during the 1959 revolutionan action he tied directly to Havanas continuing support for Maduro. The full implementation of the so-called Helms-Burton Act was supported above all by Trumps hawkish National Security Adviser, John Bolton, who has been in the frontline of those bullying Venezuela with the threat of war. The coming into force of the provision is expected to lead to some 6,000 lawsuits, predominantly directed against European and Canadian companies. Although the newly enforced provisions of the Helms-Burton Act directly target Canadian economic interests and are yet another example of Washington trying to impose extraterritorial sanctions on the world, the Trudeau governments response has been low-key. Ottawa has issued a pro forma complaint and pledged to back Canadian companies against any Helms-Burton-inspired lawsuits. Meanwhile, Ottawa is leaning on Havana to abandon one of its closest allies and accept the installation of an antidemocratic regime pledged to Guaidos Plan Pais, which calls for the privatization of the Venezuelas oil wealth and the imposition of IMF structural adjustment measures. The Trudeau governments naked intervention in Venezuela with the aim of bringing about regime change is just one part of Canadas increasing involvement in US military-strategic offensives around the world. Canada has been one of Washingtons staunchest allies in expanding NATO and now NATO deployments to Russias borders and in its preparations for military conflict in the Asia-Pacific with China. Canadas promotion of regime change in Venezuela, like all of its predatory imperialist adventures around the world, enjoys virtual unanimous backing from the political establishment. The official opposition Conservatives have been even more bellicose in their denunciations of Maduro than the government, while the corporate media, from the liberal Toronto Star to the Globe and Mail, the mouthpiece of Canadas financial elite, have proclaimed their support for Guaidos attempts to seize power. The lone establishment voice to oppose the Trudeau governments endorsement of last weeks attempted putsch was the New Democratic Party. Its foreign policy spokesman Guy Caron issued a statement that condemned any attempted coup with the assistance of the military. But this hypocritical remark, coming from a party that has endorsed one Canadian military intervention after another over the past quarter of a century, was aimed above all at covering up the NDPs pro-imperialist stance on Venezuela. Later in the very same statement, Caron raised the demand for free and democratic elections, thereby endorsing the US, Lima Group, and right-wing Venezuelan opposition lie that Maduros presidency is constitutionally illegitimate. Canada must continue working with its local allies to find a peaceful and democratic solution, declared Caron. The reality is that Canada and its local allies, organized in the Lima Group, are conspiring to engineer an anti-democratic regime change operation that will bring a far-right, anti-working-class government to power in Caracas. This endeavour is incompatible with both a peaceful and a democratic solution. It leads inevitably in the direction of civil war, military conflict and the imperialist plunder of Venezuelas oil and other natural resources. Moreover, it should be recalled that the NDP lent its explicit backing to the imperialist-orchestrated regime-change operation when it was launched in late January. Only after a public outcry did the NDP feel compelled to walk back this brazen endorsement. On Monday, over 200 high school students in Tucson, Arizona walked out of school to protest the detention and deportation of their classmate, Thomas Torres, an 18-year-old senior just two weeks away from graduating. Torres was pulled over by a police officer while driving on May 2 and was handed over to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. He is currently being held in an immigration detention center in Florence, Arizona, awaiting a court hearing which will take place on May 22, the day he is set to graduate from Desert View High School. Desert View students walked out Monday morning and marched four miles (6.5 kilometers) to the Pima County Sheriff's Department to demand Torres immediate release. Students held a morning press conference in front of the police station which was live streamed on social media. The fight to free their classmate has been dubbed Operation Thomas by the students. At the press conference, close friends and classmates spoke in opposition to Torres arrest and detainment. Torres friend Daffne Anselmo told reporters Were here to get our friend back. This shouldn't be happening right now. Thomas should be in class. We all should be in class. ICE and police are tearing families apart. We shouldnt be worrying about ending up in an immigration prison or jail after leaving school. We dont need this to happen again. Its been happening for years We just want this to stop, Anselmo said. An unnamed student slammed police for assisting with the deportation and the school district, which has not led a fight to protect its students. Let me be clear, the reason why we decided to gather here is because it was a sheriffs deputy who pulled over Thomas and held him until CBP arrived. The sheriff is asking for more money to collaborate with border patrol. So, this is a call for all the Pima County Supervisors. This is what happens when police collaborate with border patrol! We dont want one more student taken into custody. We dont want another family torn apart. And Sunnyside district knows this! It is not the first time it happened in Desert View. Is not the first it happens in Sunnyside. So, the district needs to stand up for students as well. Do not allow a sheriff on campus. Do not allow them near your students! Its not over after he comes out of detention center. He will have to face immigration judges, he will have to start a legal battle to stay with the community here at Desert View High School. And we want him out! We want him out before May 22! We want him to come to graduation! she added. According to the fundraising page established for his legal fees, Torres moved to the United States from Mexico when he was young, along with his mother and two younger sisters to seek a better future and education. Statements of support and donations have begun pouring in, and within three days over $9,000 has been raised, primarily from small donors. The organized response by Torres classmates represent the desire of young people to fight back. Youth in general are moving to the left, as are their educators, who have been at the forefront of the recent upsurge in the class struggle in the United States and internationally. Educators have been subject to decades of a decline in living standards, growing attacks on public education, the funneling of their students into the war apparatus, and the assault on youth and their families by Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) and (CBP). Just one year ago, on April 26, nearly 60,000 Arizona teachers struck for six days in defiance of their union. The action was part of an international wave of strikes and demonstrations by educators throughout the world. Since their wildcat strike, the district has sought to punish teachers with unpaid days and the censoring of social media. The rebellion by teachers internationally and youth is part of an interconnected phenomenon. According to a February 2019 Harris poll reported by Axios, a larger majority of youth are embracing socialism and policies generally associated with that political philosophy. More than 60 percent of Americans between the ages of 18 and 24 (born after 1995) view socialism in a positive light. Over 70 percent of Millennials, born between 1980 and 1994, and Generation Zthose born after 1995believe universal health care should be provided, and approximately 67 percent believe college should be tuition-free. Ellen Holmes Brandis, a Spanish teacher in Durham, North Carolina, created a petition to protest the mass detention of over 100 immigrants in an ICE raid in February. This is an extra load on both the school professionals and the families affected, wrote Brandis. Students should be enjoying their childhood, having fun learning new things at school, not suffering extreme duress due to ICE. Its ripping our community apart in many ways, and its not only our immigrant students. Its all students. Our non-immigrant students are frightened for their friends. The day after a mass roundup at a meatpacking plant in Hamblen County, Tennessee, NBC reported that 500 children from the district missed school. Jessica Bailiff, a physics teacher, said that when her absent students returned, Theres just fear and sadness written all over their faces. Despite the widespread support for Torres, and immigrants in general, right-wing attacks by state authorities have already begun, in an attempt to discredit the student protest and all parties who stand in defense of immigrants. Sheriff Mark Napier, concerned by the public outcry against the use of police as agents of immigration, has made a dangerous allegation against the rally and its students. In a Facebook post Monday, Napier wrote that Through observation, the Sheriffs Department identified two members of CLEPC [County Law Enforcement Partnership Commission] as potential organizers of the protest. Napier is up for reelection in 2020 has been working to obtain more than $1 million in federal funds to support collaboration between federal Border Patrol agents and local law enforcement after the CLEPC voted 6-4 against the funding. The allegation by the sheriff must be taken as a warning to the Desert View students and all who seek to defend the rights of immigrants. Young people must link up with their teachers and with the working class as a whole, in order to put a stop to deportations, mass raids and the vast system of detention centers. Such a fight must be bound up with the fight for socialism, for internationalism, and the right for everyone to live wherever they want with full rights and without fear of deportation. By Lee Kyung-min The nation's current account surplus fell to a near seven-year low of $11.2 billion in the first quarter due to a sharp fall in exports of key items such as semiconductors, the Bank of Korea (BOK) said Wednesday. The figure was the smallest surplus on a quarterly basis since the second quarter of 2012 when it came in at $10.94 billion. The surplus narrowed as outbound shipments fell 3.9 percent year-on-year to $137.5 billion in the January-March period, the first quarterly setback in exports since the third quarter of 2016. Hit by this, the goods account surplus narrowed to $19.61 billion, the worst figure since the first quarter of 2014's $17.06 billion. Observers note that the situation is unlikely to turn around in the coming quarters due to continued sagging exports. These dropped 2 percent in April from a year earlier, extending their year-on-year fall for the fifth consecutive month due to a prolonged slump in chips and weak demand from China. "The signals are clear that the country is entering the beginning of what is expected to be a protracted downturn," said Yun Chang-hyun, a business professor at the University of Seoul. "Chip sales are dropping amid softening global demand, which among others largely affects investment." He also expressed concern that the country may see a current account deficit for April, when large dividend payments were made. "The implications of the current account deficit are severe given the country will become strapped for U.S. dollars, a reason why the government should come up with measure to help export companies," Yun said. By month, the country's current account surplus came to $4.8 billion in March, down from $5.1 billion a year earlier due to the widened deficit in the services account. The goods account surplus narrowed to $8.47 billion, down from $9.41 a year before due to falling exports amid global slowdown and drop in chip unit cost. The services account deficit increased to $2.34 billion, up from $2.26 billion from the previous year due to deterioration in the intellectual property account. Yun called for the government to take pre-emptive measures to prevent the situation from deteriorating further. "Exports have been and will likely remain the driver of Korea's economic growth for some time. Tax benefits among other incentives can be introduced as an incentive to have them increase investment in the country," he said. The BOK said it still remains to be seen whether April's current account will see a deficit. "We understand the lingering concerns that April may see a significant dent in the current account balance, but dividend payments in the March-April period were not significantly greater than the year before," a BOK official said. He pointed out that the narrowed deficit in the services account should be also considered. "Other than a one-off negative driven by intellectual property payments involving R&D in the month, the services account has improved thanks to the travel and transport accounts, which will help make up for the deficit incurred in other sectors. It is difficult to make a projection with any certainty at the moment." Rising oil prices will be one of the factors causing fluctuations in the current account balance. "A $10 rise in oil prices will leave an annual $8 billion dent in the current account, given Korea relies heavily on imported oil," another BOK official said. Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul crossed the inter-Korean border Wednesday to visit a joint liaison office in North Korea's border town of Gaesong in his first trip to the communist state since taking office last month. Kim plans to meet South Korean officials stationed there and check progress in their work before returning to Seoul in the afternoon. "This visit is aimed at encouraging our staff working at the liaison office as it has been playing an important role in inter-Korean relations," a ministry official said on condition of anonymity. The official added that Kim does not have plans to have consultations with North Koreans during his visit. Still, his trip draws keen attention as it comes amid stagnated inter-Korean exchanges apparently tied down by little progress in denuclearization talks between Pyongyang and Washington. On Saturday, North Korea fired multiple projectiles into the East Sea on Saturday, raising tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Major cross-border projects have been put on hold for months, with the North not responding to South Korean President Moon Jae-in's offer for a fourth summit with its leader Kim Jong-un. The two Koreas launched the liaison office in September and agreed to hold a meeting of its co-heads every week to discuss cross-border issues. The weekly meeting, however, has not been held for 10 consecutive weeks. In mid-March, North Korea abruptly withdrew all of its staff from the liaison office without providing a clear reason, though some of them were sent back to the office days later. Experts said the withdrawal might be aimed at pressuring South Korea to do more to persuade the United States to lower its demands in the stalled denuclearization negotiations. Nuclear negotiations have been stalled since the second summit between North Korean leader Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump in February ended without an agreement due to differences over Pyongyang's denuclearization steps and Washington's sanctions relief. (Yonhap) North Korea's Premier of the Cabinet Pak Pong-ju, left, visited Changyon and Sinchon Counties in South Hwanghae Province to check agricultural produces there, according to Korean Central News Agency, May 23, 2018. Yonhap The international Red Cross has decided to provide North Korea with water pumps as part of an emergency measure to help the impoverished nation cope with worsening food shortages caused in part by droughts. The emergency "action plan" for North Korea will include a provision of 15 mobile water pumps to help improve irrigation under the disaster relief emergency fund, according to a release by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) on Monday. The IFRC has set aside 76,946 Swiss francs ($75,466) for the aid program. The funds will be spent over a three-month period to provide the pumps and fuel to operate the pumps and educate farmers about proper use, it said. The provision is expected to benefit some 331,967 residents, or 5,831 households, in counties in eastern South Hamgyong Province. The IFRC said providing water pumps is essential, especially for the spring crop production, because a shortage would deprive North Koreans of food supplies until the main harvesting season in September. South Korean President Moon Jae-in's administration said Wednesday it will begin official procedures associated with its plan for food aid to Pyongyang. Courtesy of Cheong Wa Dae South Korea's Moon Jae-in administration will soon begin official procedures associated with its plan for food aid to North Korea, a Cheong Wa Dae official said Wednesday. The official, however, said it's still too early to talk in detail about the issue, as the government has yet to review the size, format and other specifics. Moon and U.S. President discussed the humanitarian issue in their phone conversation Tuesday night (Seoul time). "We are at a stage of beginning a review of all those matters," including preparations for domestic procedures, the official told reporters in a background briefing. A left-wing columnist thinks President Trump intends to express concern over Hungarys co-operation with China and Russia, while pro-government commentators suggest that he wants to bolster Mr. Orbans position before the European Elections. In Nepszava, Peter Nemeth recalls that under President Obama, the Hungarian Prime Minister was never received in the White House, due to concerns over the implementation of the rule of law in Hungary. President Trump has no such concerns, he writes. He may express misgivings to the Hungarian Prime Minister, but only over his ties with Beijing and Moscow. Nyugati Feny finds it telling that while Mr. Orban will be received in the White House, two opposition politicians will pay a visit to the State Department. In its headline, the left-liberal news site describes that decision by the State Department as a slap in the face to PM Orban. Two founders of Everybodys Hungary, an opposition umbrella organisation, Hodmezovasarhely Mayor Peter Marki-Zay and former MP Zoltan Kesz will be guests of the German Marshall Fund in Washington. On M1, the public TV news channel, political analyst Zoltan Kiszelly reads the invitation extended to PM Orban to the White House as indicating that the President of the United States wants to revalue Mr Orbans policies in the run-up for the European Parliamentary elections. What prompts him to think so is a basic agreement between the two leaders on immigration and patriotism. On 888, Jozsef Gyorgy Horvath agrees and deems it telling that just two weeks before the European elections, rather than inviting Mrs Merkel, French President Macron or some leading European bureaucrat, Mr Trump felt it right to receive the Hungarian Prime Minister. This opinion does not necessarily represent the views of XpatLoop.com or the publisher. Your opinions are welcome too - for editorial review before possible publication online. Click here to Share Your Story MTI Photo: Botar Gergely The number of foreign investments seen in Hungary in recent years shows that the country is an extremely attractive destination for investors, the innovation and technology minister said in Brussels. Speaking to Hungarian reporters during a break in a European business summit, Laszlo Palkovics (pictured above on left) said that there were still many who are unaware of the economic progress Hungary has made since 2010. Last year, a total of 98 major foreign companies decided to invest in building factories or research institutions or pursuing other forms of business in Hungary, the minister noted, saying this was a testament to the progress made by the economy. Certain economic players, however, are still unaware that Hungarys economy grew by nearly 5% last year or that the unemployment rate had fallen to 3.6% from above 10% nine years ago. MTI Photo: Illyes Tibor People often imagine drug use to be a modern phenomenon, but an ancient drug pouch shows that people were taking cocaine and hallucinogens a thousand years ago. Reearchers found a drug pouch in the Sora River valley in south western Bolivia, containing snuffing tablets used to crush plants into sniffable form. There were also three fox snouts, and a mix of chemicals suggesting that the powerful hallucinogen ayahuasca was used at least 1,000 years ago. The researchers tested the pouch and found traces of cocaine, plus hallucinogens including dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and possibly traces of magic mushrooms. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Ukip candidate questioned over rape comments Passenger complains he didnt get refund after crash kills 41 Two teens arrested after boy shot in Wolverhampton The find suggests that ancient people in Bolivia may have combined different drugs. Researcher Dr Jose Capriles said: We already knew that psychotropics were important in the spiritual and religious activities of the societies of the south-central Andes, but we did not know that these people were using so many different compounds and possibly combining them together. Dr Capriles said the fox-snout pouch was likely to have belonged to a shaman a type of witch doctor. It is possible that the shaman who owned this pouch consumed multiple different plants simultaneously to produce different effects or extend his or her hallucinations. Dr Capriles said that finding harmine and DMT the primary ingredients of ayahuasca, a drink reported to induce hallucinations and altered consciousness in the pouch suggests the use of the brew as one of the drugs in the shamans kit. He added: Some scholars believe that ayahuasca has relatively recent origins, while others argue that it may have been used for centuries, or even millennia. Given the presence of harmine and DMT together in the pouch we found, it is likely that this shaman ingested these simultaneously to achieve a hallucinogenic state, either through a beverage, such as ayahuasca, or through a composite snuff that contained these plants in a single mixture. This finding suggests that ayahuasca may have been used up to 1,000 years ago. '5-Year-Old Princess' Walks Out of the Hospital More Than 1 Month After Being Shot in the Head Kemiyah Edwards Shot in Head, Leaves Virginia Hospital A kindergarten student was able to walk out of a Virginia hospital on her own after being shot in the head by a bullet that came through the window of her familys home in Henrico, Virginia. After the shooting on April 4, sources told CBS affiliate WTVR that Kemiyah Edwards grandmother put her into a car and stopped for help at the Oak Hill Shopping Plaza a few blocks away. The Henrico Police Department confirmed to PEOPLE that they responded to the incident around 4:30 p.m. that day and that the investigation is ongoing. WTVRs TV report showed Edwards leaving the hospital on Tuesday after a few difficult weeks in the intensive care unit. Kemiyah Edwards | Facebook A Facebook Fundraisers page that was created for the 5-year-old princess says the funds will go towards Kemiyahs healthcare. We are so thankful for all the donations, gifts cards and support that she already has received, Reckalynn Harris wrote on Wednesday. Please continue to pray for her. The page also notes that although Kemiyah headed home, she has a very hard long road ahead. RELATED: Michigan Woman Makes a Miraculous Recovery After Being Taken Off Life Support Harris has been updating the little girls supporters and shared a video of Edwards dancing. She had a long day yesterday seeing family and friends and it wore her out, Harris added. She still has another surgery that she has to have but is doing so well the family appreciates everyone. This has been a journey for all of us and will continue to be. Please still continue to pray for her. It was a long and difficult journey to get to where they are today. On April 21, Harris wrote that Kemiyah is doing much better as she is moving all her limbs and showing more of her personality. She is now doing therapy, added Harris, and we are hoping she will be walking very soon. Mathew Talbot, of The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, who has died while on counter poaching operations in Malawi, the Ministry of Defence has announced. It is understood Guardsman Talbot was killed by an elephant whilst on patrol. (PA) A British soldier has been killed by an elephant while on counter-poaching operations in Africa. Mathew Talbot, of The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, died while on counter poaching operations in Malawi, the Ministry of Defence has announced on Tuesday. He was on his first operational deployment when he died during counter poaching operations in Malawi on May 5. His commanding officer, Lt Col Ed Launders, said Guardsman Talbot "was a determined and big-hearted Coldstreamer who devoted his life to serving his country" and "tragically died doing great good". An African elephant bull (Loxodonta africana) on the shore of the Shire River in Liwonde National Park, Malawi. Stock image. (Getty) Company Commander Major Richard Wright added that in the short time he knew Guardsman Talbot "he never failed to make me smile". He said: "A true Coldstreamer, fit, energetic and full of selfless commitment, Guardsman Talbot bravely lost his life whilst ensuring that endangered species will be around for future generations to learn from and enjoy." He leaves behind his father Steven, his mother Michelle and sisters Aimee and Isabel, and Olivia his girlfriend, Mr Wright added. Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt said: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Guardsman Mathew Talbot, who died while carrying out vital counter-poaching work in Malawi. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Ukip candidate questioned over rape comments Passenger complains he didnt get refund after crash kills 41 Two teens arrested after boy shot in Wolverhampton "This tragic incident is a reminder of the danger our military faces as they protect some of the world's most endangered species from those who seek to profit from the criminal slaughter of wildlife. "Throughout his career with the Coldstream Guards, Guardsman Talbot served with great courage and professionalism, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones at this terrible time." Lt Hugo Cazalet, the platoon commander, said: "Guardsman Talbot was an exceptional and unique personality, possessed of a quick and dry wit. "He was a proud 'Brummie' with an epic work ethic, he always worked hard for his mates and put the needs of the team before his own. Story continues "He was a constant source of morale, even in the direst situations and his infectious humour ensured that his team were constantly smiling too." Defence minister Tobias Ellwood said the "untimely death" showed that soldiers face dangers in many aspects of the job they do. He told Forces News: "It shows you that this may not have been a battlefield but it shows you that there's dangers inherent right across what our armed forces do. It's truly sad to learn of his untimely death and our thoughts and prayers are very much with his friends and family at this moment." He said: "He was doing an important job and I know that's something that he loved as well." Operation Corded, the name given to the Army's counter-poaching deployment in Malawi, assists in the training of rangers in a bid to help them crack down on the illegal wildlife trade. Park rangers are taught skills such as tracking, partnered patrolling, communications, surveillance, and intelligence-sharing - with the first deployment taking place in August 2017. What happened? The Government confirmed today the UK will have to take part in European elections on 23 May. The announcement means Theresa May has accepted she wont be able to get a Brexit deal through Parliament in time for the elections to be cancelled. The Government said it was redoubling its efforts to get an EU Withdrawal Agreement ratified by the start of July so the MEPs elected this month never have to take their seats. Pressure mounts on May The PMs spokesperson said Mrs May deeply regrets that EU elections will have to take place and acknowledged the public will feel deeply frustrated. Her failure to persuade MPs to back her Brexit deal in time for the elections to be called off will add to the mounting pressure on her to step aside. Mrs May is being urged by her own party to set a firm resignation date ahead of a meeting with the chairman of the powerful 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers. The committee has requested clarity about the Prime Ministers timetable for standing down and triggering a leadership contest after she said she would give way once she has succeeded in getting Parliaments approval for her Brexit deal. Polls predict a humiliation for the Tories in the EU elections, with the Brexit Party heading towards an impressive election performance. A drubbing in the polls will only push the PM closer to the door. Read more: Brexit talks between Tories and Labour resume (The Guardian) How to register to vote in the European elections (The Independent) Euro elections must go ahead, Government says (PA Ready News) A police officer could be sacked for knocking a suspected thief off his moped. The incident followed the introduction of tougher measures to crack down on moped crime, including so-called hard stops, allowing police to knock suspects off their rides with their cars. Should officers be allowed to knock riders off their mopeds? Read the full story and have your say below Prince William welcomes Harry to sleep deprivation society Story continues The Duke of Cambridge has said he is absolutely thrilled about the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs son and revealed he hasnt meant the new royal baby yet. The Duke said he was looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down, adding: Im very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting. Read the full story here (HuffPost) British soldier killed by elephant in Malawi A British soldier has been killed by an elephant while on counter-poaching operations in Africa. Mathew Talbot, of The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards, died in Malawi on May 5 while on his first operational deployment. Lt Hugo Cazalet, the platoon commander, said: Guardsman Talbot was an exceptional and unique personality, possessed of a quick and dry wit. He was a proud Brummie with an epic work ethic. Read the full story here (Yahoo News UK) The Met Gala is the most anticipated event for A-listers and a chance for them to show off their most outrageous fashion choices. Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this years theme was Camp, and they didnt disappoint. Heres a rundown of the most over-the-top ensembles on show: 20,771ft A group of rugby players, including former internationals, has taken part in the highest game of the sport in history. Former England and Bath hooker Lee Mears and ex-Wales and Ospreys wing Shane Williams were among those taking part in the seven-a-side match on the East Rongbuk Glacier on Mount Everest. Teams battled altitude sickness, fatigue and exhaustion to compete in the match, which raised more than 250,000 for charity Wooden Spoon. Read the full story here. (Sportsbeat) Colorado authorities announced the suspects in Tuesdays mass shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch are an 18-year-old male student and a 17-year-old female student. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock identified the male suspect as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and did not reveal the name of the female suspect. With the investigation in its early stages, Spurlock said he could release few details about the shooting that left one student dead and 8 others with gunshot wounds. Five of the injured students have been released from the hospital. The other three remain in critical condition. A motive for the violence is not yet known. The first reports about the shooting were received by police at around 2 p.m. local time. Spurlock did not speak specifically to what injuries the students sustained in the deadly Tuesday afternoon incident. The name of the mortally wounded student, who was 18, has not been released by authorities. Spurlock did confirm Wednesday morning the deceased victim was days from finishing his senior year, and was expected to graduate this month. RELATED: One Student Dead and 7 Injured After 2 People Allegedly Open Fire at K-12 STEM School in Colorado Spurlock said because the two suspected shooters were students at the school, they were able to get deep inside the school before beginning the attack. The school doesnt have metal detectors, he confirmed. The two suspects, Spurlock said, were apprehended separately, in different parts of the school. They were both allegedly armed with handguns but did not exchange gunfire with the officers who detained them. One of them, according to Spurlock, was being restrained by the schools security officer when police took them into custody. Devon Erickson | Facebook Spurlock said one of the suspects cars has been seized and that investigators are analyzing the significance of a message that was left in spray paint on the vehicle: F Society. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Click here to get breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases in the True Crime Newsletter. Story continues He added it will likely take detectives and FBI agents two more days to process the extensive crime scene, and estimated there are at least 600 more students left to be interviewed in the investigation. At the press conference, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis spoke, calling Tuesdays shooting a vicious act of violence. Douglas County District Attorney George Brauchler said his office has yet to decide if the female suspect will be charged as an adult. Charges will be filed this morning against Erickson, Brauchler explained, before he is due in court for an advisement hearing later this afternoon. According to Spurlock, stories of heroism in the face of danger are likely to emerge from the school in the coming days. We are going to hear about heroic things that took place, Spurlock said, confirming at least one student was shot as he encountered one of the suspects. It was unclear Wednesday if Erickson had retained an attorney who could comment on his behalf. A discarded Islamic State (IS) group flag lying on the ground in the village of Baghouz in Syria's eastern Deir Ezzor province, where British jihadi Samia Hussein is believed to have been when she contacted her family. (Getty) The family of a British woman severely injured in a coalition attack on Islamic State has appealed for her to be allowed home. Samia Hussein lost an arm and was left badly mutilated after a suspected drone missile attack on the Islamic State-occupied town where she was taken by Jihadist fighters. A report in the Telegraph claimed the former student from Southall, in west London, is among a number of British women to join Islamic State, who were only discovered after the fall of Baghouz last month. Like Shamima Begum it is uncertain as to whether she will ever be allowed back into Britain A general view shows the banks of the Tigris river in Mosul's Old City, on January 8, 2018, six months after Iraqi forces seized the country's second city from Islamic State group jihadists.(Getty) Three weeks ago she reportedly called her family to say she was still alive but had been severely injured, losing her left arm and half of her breast. An unnamed relative said: We need the Government to help her. Shes British, she was born here and has a British passport and we want her to come back to this country. Miss Hussein, 25, claimed she fell for the lies of the jihadists when she gave up her studies in 2015 to become one of their camp followers, only to find herself trapped inside Isils murderous Caliphate. It is claimed that Miss Hussein fell under the influence of extremists during her time at university in Nairobi, Kenya. The IS flag displayed on a mobile phone. She was told she would be helping children in need. We don't know who brainwashed her, but they werent from Britain, they were from Nairobi, said the relative. Asha Hussein, one of her sisters, added: Samia was a really bright girl, really happy. She did her A-levels and wanted to become a journalist. She was really clever, always helping me with things like official forms. She was always happy, always made us laugh. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Ukip candidate questioned over rape comments Passenger complains he didnt get refund after crash kills 41 Two teens arrested after boy shot in Wolverhampton I really miss her. We all do. I had no suspicion about her or any idea that something was going to happen. She just disappeared one day and It was awful. Story continues There was no sign of Samia having become radicalised or anything like that. She was just a normal girl. The Foreign Office told the Telegraph it would not comment on individual cases but said it does not have a consular presence in Syria, making it difficult to provide assistance. Variety has been given the first-look image from Oscar-nominated director Ildiko Enyedis The Story of My Wife, starring Palme dOr winner Lea Seydoux. We spoke to Enyedi about the film, which is being sold at Cannes by Films Boutique. Enyedis On Body and Soul won the Golden Bear at Berlin in 2017 and was Oscar nominated the following year. Seydoux won Cannes Palme dOr, alongside director Abdellatif Kechiche and co-star Adele Exarchopoulos for Blue Is the Warmest Color in 2013. Related stories Sylvester Stallone to Share First Look at 'Rambo V' at Cannes Film Festival Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' Cannes Premiere Expected to Set Off Oscar Buzz The Story of My Wife, budgeted at Euros 10 million ($11.2 million), is an adaptation of Milan Fusts 1942 novel of the same name. The story, a variation of the legend of the Flying Dutchman, is set in the 1920s. In it sea captain Jakob Storr makes a bet in a cafe with a friend that he will marry the first woman who enters the place, and then in walks Lizzy. Fusts novel was first published in Hungary in 1942, but only translated into English in the late 1980s, when it became a literary sensation. The project, Enyedis first English-language feature, re-teams the director with her On Body and Soul producers Monika Mecs, Andras Muhi and Erno Mesterhazy of Hungarys Inforg-M&M Film. Berlin-based Komplizen Film, the producer of Oscar-nominated Toni Erdmann, is on board as co-producer, alongside Frances Pyramide Productions and Italys Dorje Film. The first phase of principal photography finished in Hamburg recently. Further shooting locations include Budapest and Malta. The film is supported by the Hungarian National Film Fund, Eurimages and Arte. Agnes Havas, CEO of the Hungarian National Film Fund, said: Im delighted that a pearl of Hungarian literature, Milan Fusts enigmatic novel The Story of My Wife will be adapted for the big screen in European co-production, majority supported by Hungarys Film Fund. The novel has been translated into more than 20 languages, published all around the world and available in online bookstores. I cant wait to see the English-language film version starring world cinemas finest talents. Story continues Also in the cast are Gijs Naber (How to Avoid Everything), Louis Garrel (Redoubtable), Josef Hader (Stefan Zweig: Farewell to Europe), Sergio Rubini (The Stuff of Dreams) and Jasmine Trinca (Honey). What led you to adapt Milan Fusts book as your next project? Ildiko Enyedi: As an only child I was a bookish girl and one of the decisive moments of my teenage years was my meeting with this novel. It speaks with disarming sincerity and sometimes frightening lucidity about our human flaws and, at the same time treats its imperfect, failing heroes with immense tenderness. A rare combination. What are the challenges of this project? Ildiko Enyedi: Well, there are invisible, nearly subconscious thematic ghettos for an Eastern European woman director. This film ignores them not because I intend to ignore anything, but, because I want to follow simply and faithfully the inner needs of this project I love so passionately. I hope the film will be strong and convincing enough to make everyone forget these hidden expectations and audiences let themselves be lost in it. Why did you decide to shoot it in English? Ildiko Enyedi: The absolute protagonist of this film is Jakob, a Dutch freighter sea captain in the 1920s (the book is based on the myth of the Flying Dutchman) played by Gijs Naber, a fine, highly talented Dutch actor with an amazing presence. A real discovery! In the shipping trade Jakobs profession English was used (as Latin for doctors or French for diplomats in those years). English is also their only common language with Lizzy, his French wife played by Lea Seydoux. Although the dialogues are mostly in English, French, German and Italian appear in the film as well: everyone speaks the language that is natural and credible in the given situation. Why were Lea Seydoux and Louis Garrel best suited for the lead roles, alongside Gijs Naber? Ildiko Enyedi: I admire Leas boldness, her urge to risk herself again and again for creating something alive and true. Like an acrobat on the trapeze. As the power of this film depends on the power of this enigmatic central personality, Lizzy, who sets all sorts of events in motion without ever really moving, I needed an actress with a very strong charisma. I am happy to have found also a female ally with whom we can work on the basis of deep mutual trust. Louis Garrel the third member of this love-triangle is the most dangerous sort of counterpart for Jakob: he has all the charm, the eloquence and the sophisticated humor that Jakob, who spends his life at sea, is missing. What are the contemporary resonances of the story? Ildiko Enyedi: This film is a love letter to all the wonderfully imperfect men to the loves of our life, written by a woman director. When I was a kid the male attribute I envied the most was chivalry. I would like to permit myself now to be chivalrous. I would like to add a gentle touch to the general discussion of today about communication between the sexes. I am so glad that through some longtime closed and now opened windows fresh air is pouring in, that our social habits are changing for the better. Lets do it with more kindness and more humor it will not be less effective but it will definitely be more fun for all of us. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. [Editors note: The following article contains mild spoilers for Fosse/Verdon Episode 5, Where Am I Going?] While Fosse/Verdon is based, to some degree, on real events, the weekend depicted in Episode 5, Where Am I Going?, didnt actually happen. Related stories 'Legion' Season 3 Trailer: As Series Ends, David Haller's More Impossibly Powerful Than Ever Thomas Kail's Incredible Journey From Directing Sitcoms to Winning Awards to 'Fosse/Verdon' The germ of that idea was that Bob [Fosse] used to throw these parties all the time in the Hamptons and they would go up after Ann [Reinking]s matinees when she was in Pippin, and they were filled with all these showbiz people, and it felt like that would be a lot of fun, showrunner Steven Levenson told IndieWire. In the episode, Bob (Sam Rockwell) and Gwen (Michelle Williams) bring their new lovers, Ron (Jake Lacy) and Ann Reinking (Margaret Qualley), for a vacation intended to cheer up the recently widowed Neil Simon (played by Nate Corddry). Despite the hangers on, Where Am I Going? proves instrumental to Bob and Gwens future; a key episode in which characters acknowledge their complicated relationships. But it also provided an opportunity to pay tribute to another classic theater work: Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? We sort of talked about it like instead of Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, this was Whos Afraid of Bob and Gwen?' executive producer and episode director Thomas Kail said. The homage mixed things up a bit. While Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is about an older couple sparring with a younger couple, Fosse/Verdon played to its strengths. The couples are mismatched completely, Levenson said. You can tell Ron and Ann are the same age, and Bob and Gwen are the same age, and it felt like, Oh, thats a lot of fun, to see these two people sniff around their new lover. Story continues The episode also benefitted from bringing its established characters to a non-performance environment, opening up avenues of conversation and connection. We loved the idea conceptually of giving ourselves the challenge of no dance numbers and seeing these showbiz people without the showbiz, Levenson said. Like, what do they actually do when theyre not doing that? The answer doesnt lack for a cinematic treatment. Kail noted that while most Fosse/Verdon episodes were shot in 10 days, Where Am I Going? was shot in nine less, but at the same time, he felt that you can see my own version of having recently seen Roma, because we wanted these really long takes. We wanted to be able to see through [the scenes] just have the camera creep around [and] we really were excited by that. Up until now, Fosse/Verdon had darted in a devious manner between time periods, so an episode largely devoted to one specific moment was an important shift. The more we talked about it, the more it became clear that it was a great idea dramatically, but it also kind of served as the perfect pivot point in the series and the perfect opportunity to dig deeper into the characters, executive producer Joel Fields said. There was something great about just dropping into where these characters were as human beings and seeing them as people but as the unique showpeople that they were. What it really became was kind of the turning point in the series between really different phases of Bob and Gwens relationship, Levenson said, as Fosse was trying to make a comeback after his post-Caberet success breakdown, and Verdon was coming to acknowledge that her career as a dancer was coming to an end. We knew we wanted it to be really self-contained. We knew we wanted them to have to stay inside, and we wanted to come up with a really dramatic reason why they were all there. The idea of coming together to cheer up Neil felt like a really honest moment for us to try to explore, Fields said. But it all, ultimately, proves to be a valuable interlude for the characters to reconnect, in the name of continuing the work they were best known for the theater work which kept them from ever finding peace as a happy couple. As Fields said, Marriage is a complicated journey to go on, and we can always learn about our own by watching others. Everybody has ambition, and everybody has to balance ambition in their personal relationships. Watching these people try to do that and mostly fail is interesting and compelling. That said, if Fosse and Verdon had met as normal people, outside of the Broadway scene, would they have had a chance at a healthy relationship? Levenson said no, but there were benefits. I think that whats interesting about them is so many people have destructive relationships, but its rare that the destruction leaves behind such an incredible trail of creation, he said. So I think they still would have had the destruction, but they may not have created Chicago or Cabaret in the process I think that they were kind of ticking time bombs when they met and their pathologies meshed perfectly, and tragically. Fosse/Verdon airs new episodes Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET on FX. Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. South Africa: Vuwani community urged to vote Government has called on the people of Vuwani who have boycotted the elections - to exercise their right to vote for their voices to be heard. The community on Tuesday went on a total shutdown as they continue to demand that their area be reincorporated under the Makhado Local Municipality by the Municipal Demarcation Board. Police are on standby to mitigate any violence which may erupt. This is not the first time Vuwani has went on a shutdown during election time. Leading up to the 2016 Local Government Election - the area experienced an unprecedented violence in the area, resulting in almost 30 schools being burnt. Although that issue was settled through government intervention the community seems to be up in arms again. On Wednesday, Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA) Minister Zweli Mkhize said government remains committed to the agreement reached in January this year. Following a number of engagements that government had with all the stakeholders, traditional leaders and the Pro-Makhado Task Team (PMTT), it is regrettable that there are those calling for people to boycott the elections. We advise communities in Vuwani to exercise their right to vote and we are happy with reports that many people are voting in Vuwani, said Mkhize who met with various community representatives in January. At that meeting, the stakeholders agreed that political processes such as registering to vote and the actual voting will be allowed to proceed without hindrances. We urge all stakeholders to continue working together to ensure that a lasting solution is found to address the demarcation challenges in Vuwani and surrounding areas. The inter-ministerial committee (IMC) will continue interacting and engaging on issues raised by stakeholders in Vuwani, said Mkhize. He added that on demarcation issues, government will support the legal processes as set out by legislation while assuring that government remains committed to other agreements reached. These include the provincial departments who are to assist to provide services like water and sanitation, vehicle licensing and that traditional leaders and the provision of stamps by the Vhembe Municipality - for proof of residence documents needed by the community. As government we are committed to ensuring that communities in Vuwani and surrounding areas are able to get an opportunity to have their issues addressed and commend the leadership of various structures in Vuwani and the communities who came out in their numbers to vote, the Minister added. - SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. South Korean Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul leaves the Inter-Korean Transit Office in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, Wednesday, after returning from the inter-Korean liaison office in Gaesong, North Korea, earlier that day. Yonhap Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul traveled to North Korea on Wednesday in his first trip across the border since taking office, reaffirming Seoul's commitment to carrying out summit agreements between the two sides. Kim, who took office as Seoul's point man on the North last month, visited the inter-Korean liaison office in the North's border city of Gaesong that the two sides established last year as part of the implementation of summit agreements between President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. During the visit, Kim also met briefly with North Korean officials working there. "I asked them to work toward the normalization of the operation of the liaison office," Kim told reporters on returning from the trip. "The North Korean side shared the view, saying that they have a strong will to implement South-North joint declarations (signed in summits last year)." The two Koreas launched the liaison office in September as part of efforts to bolster cross-border exchanges. But the office has effectively been idling as inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation made little headway due to the lack of progress in denuclearization negotiations between the U.S. and the North. Nuclear negotiations have been at a stalemate since the second summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and U.S. President Donald Trump in February ended without an agreement due to differences over Pyongyang's denuclearization steps and Washington's sanctions relief. Kim's trip to the North came days after the North fired a barrage of short-range projectiles off the east coast Saturday, including what it claimed was a newly developed "tactical guided weapon," in an apparent show of frustration over the stalled nuclear talks with the United States. Despite the firing of the weapons, Seoul and Washington have shown measured responses without denouncing the act as a provocation in an apparent effort to keep the negotiating process with Pyongyang alive. The two sides have also been talking about providing food aid to the North. U.S. President Donald Trump also expressed support for offering food assistance to the North when he spoke by phone with President Moon Jae-in on Tuesday night (Korean time), saying it will be a "well-timed and positive measure." Kim's ministry said it will closely cooperate with the international community to determine how much, when and in what method food assistance will be provided to the North that's reportedly suffering from an acute food shortage due to years of droughts and floods. The minister said he did not discuss those issues with the North Koreans, saying they were not the focus of his hourslong trip to the office. On the issue of food assistance to North Korea, however, he said that his ministry will soon start internal discussions. (Yonhap) HBO and sales agent Independent have boarded George Clooney-produced political documentary The Art of Political Murder. The premium broadcaster has taken the North American rights to the project via its HBO Documentary Films, while Independent will take it to Cannes. The feature doc, which was previously in development as a series with Amazon, is produced by Clooney and Grant Heslovs Smokehouse Pictures and Rise Film. Related stories Bruce Willis To Star In 'The Long Night' For Emmett/Furla/Oasis Films The doc will explore the murky world of post-war Guatemala and its struggle for justice. Based on Francisco Goldmans book of the same name, The Art of Political Murder uncovers the truth behind the brutal murder of Guatemalan Bishop, Juan Gerardi, that stunned a country ravaged by decades of political violence. Just two days after presenting a damning report blaming the atrocities of the civil war on the Guatemalan military, Bishop Gerardi is found dead in his home. Fearing a cover-up, the church assembles a team of young investigators to take on the case. They begin to unearth a web of conspiracy and murder, entangling the upper echelons of the government. But as they edge closer to the truth, will the countrys criminal underbelly succeed in silencing them? The Art of Political Murder is directed by Paul Taylor (We Are Together) with Icarus producer Teddy Leifer and Artemis Rising Foundations Regina K. Scully producing. Megan Davis co-produces, with Masahiro Hirakubo (The White Helmets) editing. The film shoots in Guatemala and Mexico. Clooney and Heslov serve as Executive Producers, Associate Producers are Jan Pace and James Atherton from Quickfire Films and Cora Palfrey and Sarah Lebutsch from Independent, along with Chris Matson and Sarah Shepard. Leifer said, Paul Taylor is a hugely talented director and its so exciting to be working with him once again. George and Grant have supported me from the very beginning on this film and I am delighted to partner with Smokehouse, HBO, Artemis Rising Foundation, Quickfire and Independent to bring The Art of Political Murder to screen. Story continues Independents Lebutsch added, Independent is proud to work with the talented filmmaking teams at Rise Films and Smokehouse Pictures on this thrilling and important documentary. The twists and turns of the investigation unfold in front of us like a powerful detective story and we are propelled into a dark world full of secrets, lies and murder. In todays world of media cover ups and government irresponsibility, this will be a must watch film. Rise Films is represented by UTA and attorney Chris Matson of SmithDehn. Smokehouse is represented by CAA and Lichter, Grossman, Nichols, Adler & Feldman. Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. George Litto, a longtime Hollywood talent agent who represented blacklisted writers and collaborated with Melvin Van Peeples and Ossie Davis, has died. He was 88. Litto passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center on April 29 from complications of aortic stenosis, his daughter and business partner, Andria Litto, told Deadline. Related stories Bibi Andersson Dies, Swedish Actress Who Starred In Ingmar Bergman Films Was 83 George Litto started in the mailroom at William Morris New York in 1954, and worked his way up to an agent, booking summer stock theatre. Among his early successes was helping Mae West secure a role in Come On Up (Ring Twice). There would be many other famous clients when he moved to boutique agencies in Los Angeles before opening The George Litto Agency in the mid-1960s. Litto represented Mel Davenport, aka Waldo Salt, who at the time was working in New York under his pseudonym because he was blacklisted. George put him to work under his own name on the film, Midnight Cowboy (1969). Soon after, other blacklisted writers and directors would join his client roster, including Ring Lardner Jr. (M*A*S*H), Abraham Polonsky (Tell Them Willie Boy Is Here), Joseph Loesy (The Boy With Green Hair) and Arnold Perl (Malcolm X). After developing a reputation as a rebel, a series of controversial partnerships would follow. He collaborated with Melvin Van Peeples on Sweet Sweet Backs Baadasssss Song and sold the film to Cinemation for distribution. Litto also represented Ossie Davis when he worked with Perl on Cotton Comes to Harlem (1979), which Davis directed. Among his other projects was the Perl feature Malcolm X (1972). When asked by a journalist about the film being anti-white, Litto said, We were wrong for two hundred years. Theyre entitled to two hours. Litto also represented non-conformist, Robert Altman, who couldnt get a job because he had been fired from directing television movies for Kraft Theater. Litto helped Altman land the job directing M*A*S*H. Story continues At the end of his agency tenure he represented Brian De Palma, selling Sisters for distribution and later went on to produce three films with him, Obsession, Dressed to Kill and Blow Out. Litto is survived by his two daughters, Andria and Carla, and his ex-wife, Jacqueline. A private memorial service will be held and his ashes will be spread off the coast of Italy in the Mediterranean, finally bringing him back to his Italian roots. Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. On May 7, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp delivered on his promise to sign the Heartbeat Bill (HB 481), which outlaws most abortions once a doctor can detect a fetus heartbeat. Over 100 prominent names, mostly actors, warned the governor they would not shoot in Georgia, which has become a dominant production hub for film and TV, if HB 481 became law. Yet on Tuesday afternoon, there was near silence on social media from those who signed actress Alyssa Milanos March 28 letter threatening that boycott. On Instagram and Twitter, pro-female voices in Hollywood were more likely posting about last nights Met Gala or Jessica Chastains criticism of the portrayal of rape in Game of Thrones, than Georgias abortion rights. Related stories If Hollywood Takes a Stand for Abortion Rights, the 'Heartbeat Bill' Could Cost Millions Cuomo Suggests Ending New York Film Tax Incentives in Response to Failed Amazon Deal Georgia previously faced boycott threats over its anti-LGBTQ legislation in 2016, when HB 757 would have allowed faith-based organizations to deny services to LGBTQ individuals. Disney, Fox, Time Warner, Netflix and Sony publicly let then-Governor Deal know theyd pull out of the state should he sign the bill. At this writing, no productions have announced their intentions, on or off the record, to leave the state. One filmmaker, still in early planning and just starting to scout locations, did indicate they would likely favor filming in a different tax-incentive state. In calling other productions, the most common refrain was, Why, what are you hearing? That best defines Hollywoods reaction to Governor Kemp signing the bill: waiting to see if someone will lead the charge. For those inclined to make a stand against the Heartbeat Bill, the issue of when is unclear. The film and TV industry has spent over a decade steadily building infrastructure in Atlanta that has allowed Hollywood to take full advantage of the states uncapped tax incentive. Unlike other states incentives, Georgias includes 30 percent back on above-the-line costs (like actors and directors salaries) in addition to below-the-line costs. Story continues The law is scheduled to go into effect in January 2020, but there will inevitably be a court fight to block it. Said Andrea Young, executive director of ACLU Georgia, We will see Governor Kemp in court. A similar 2016 six-week abortion law was overturned in North Dakota, as the U.S. Supreme Court has recognized a womans right to an abortion until a fetus can live outside its mothers womb. However, Georgias Heartbeat Bill, and others like it in Kentucky and Ohio, have set their sights upon the Supreme Court as pro-life states rush to be the first to test its willingness to challenge Roe v. Wade with the recent appointment of conservative Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh. Sources tell IndieWire that they dont know what a Georgia boycott could accomplish as this plays out in the courts. The ability to influence state politicians on this issue has passed. The impact would be on Hollywood itself, the vendors and crew that have relocated to the state, and its own bottom line. Hollywood brought more dollars back from Georgia ($800 million) during the 2018 fiscal year than the New York, New Mexico and California rebates combined. When and if the law is in effect, sources said they suspect some studios may steer productions away from the state. In a WGA letter condemning HB 481 in March, the writers guild warned Kemp this law would make Georgia an inhospitable place for those in the film and television industry to work. Its a line that rings true to many working in production. Marvel might not announce an Atlanta boycott (its unlikely that Disney would want to be enmeshed in an abortion controversy) but they might avoid the conflict of asking Captain Marvel herself, Brie Larson, who signed Milanos letter, or the politically conscious Black Panther cast and crew, to work there. While the first 24 hours after Kemp signed the Heartbeat Bill have brought a deafening silence, many point to how quickly this issue could snowball if key A-list talent announce they are unwilling to work in Georgia. In the meantime, Hollywood is looking over its shoulder waiting to see who might make a public stand. Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. A Japanese tourist and her husband are facing multiple charges after they allegedly lured a woman up to their Waikiki hotel room and sexually and physically assaulted her multiple times. Nagisa Dorch, 35, and husband Darrell Dorch, 46, were staying at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort when they befriended the victim, a 26-year-old Japanese woman, on April 30, Hawaii News Now reports. Though the victim reportedly declined an initial dinner invitation, she agreed to meet Nagisa by the hotel pool the next day. There, Nagisa offered her alcoholic beverages, and invited her up to her hotel room in order to help her pick out a bathing suit, according to court documents obtained by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Darrell allegedly entered the room where the women were looking at bathing suits and became intimate with his wife, causing the victim to become uncomfortable and prompting her to make an attempted exit. She was stopped, however, by Darrell, who allegedly pulled her hair and punched her an estimated 10 times before sexually assaulting her, according to the Star-Advertiser. RELATED VIDEO: Three Men Arrested In Connection With The Rape of a 14-Year-Old Girl The court documents reportedly say that Nagisa translated her husbands sexual demands to the victim, and also kissed the woman as the hours-long assault stretched on. Hawaii News Now reports that court documents say the victim was allegedly raped by Darrell at least four times. Eventually, the couples son knocked on the door of the room, leading Nagisa to help the victim escape and report the attack to police, according to the Star-Advertiser. The couple was arrested May 2, and online records show Nagisa was charged with first-degree sexual assault and two counts of second-degree sexual assault. Darrell was charged with three counts of first-degree sexual assault, kidnapping and attempted first-degree sexual assault. RELATED: No Selfies Allowed! Tourists at This Phuket Beach May Face Death Penalty for Taking Photos Story continues Nagisa appeared in Honolulu District Court Monday, where she cried before the judge as her bail was set at $300,000, the Star-Advertiser reports. Darrell was a no-show in court, as he was reportedly being uncooperative. His bail was set at $500,000. Nagisas attorney Walter Robdys request to reduce her bail to $50,000 was reportedly denied. Mrs. Dorch has never been in trouble before, he said in court. According to the Associated Press, State Public Defender Jack Tonaki, whose office represented Darrell in court, declined to comment, noting it was too early to tell if his office would continue to represent him. CNN Films announced on Wednesday that it is developing a documentary about the life and times of Georgia Congressman John Lewis. The film, for which CNN is partnering with Trilogy Films and Color Farm Media, will use interviews and archival footage to illustrate how Lewis 60-plus years of social activism and legislative action on civil rights, voting rights, gun control, healthcare reform, and immigration has prepared him for today, CNN said. John Lewis is a national treasure whose leadership paved the way for a generation. In much the same way as his life and work has been shaped by great civil rights leaders, Congressman Lewis continues to serve the country, introducing legislation to protect our most fundamental rights, Dawn Porter, the films director and founder of Trilogy Films, said in a statement. There has never been a more urgent need for the type of moral and compassionate leadership that he embodies. I am so honored to be directing this documentary for CNN Films, in partnership with AGC Studios, and am excited to show the world how John Lewis continues to make what he calls good trouble.' Also Read: 'Three Identical Strangers' Becomes Most-Watched CNN Films TV Premiere With 2 Million Viewers CNN Films is coming off of a successful run of documentaries that includes 2018s Three Identical Strangers and the Oscar-nominated RBG, as well as Apollo 11 earlier this year. CNN Films will retain North American broadcast rights for the film, while other U.S. rights for the film, including theatrical distribution, are still up for grabs. The film will be co-financed by AGC Studios, which controls international rights that will be sold via its worldwide sales subsidiary, AGC International. Porter will produce the film alongside Laura Michalchyshyn for Trilogy Films, with Erika Alexander and Ben Arnon of Color Farm Media also producing. Amy Entelis and Courtney Sexton will serve as executive producers for CNN Films, along with Stuart Ford and Rachel Traub for AGC Studios. Story continues Also Read: 8 Documentaries to Watch for Martin Luther King Day (Photos) Porter started her year of principal photography with Lewis in September 2018, as he began his campaign ahead of the 2018 U.S. midterm elections and continued through the first year of the 116th Congress. Her cameras captured the recent record-setting government shutdown, and will continue to follow the 79-year-old Congressman through 2019. Her interviews with Lewis will explore his childhood experiences, his inspiring family, and his fateful meeting with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1957. Lewis, whom King nicknamed the Boy from Troy, in recognition of Lewis preternatural oratory and commitment to social justice, would go on to become one of Kings most trusted contemporaries, and, as the then-chair of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, Lewis was the youngest speaker at the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. In addition to her interviews with Lewis and his family, Porters primarily cinema verite film will include interviews with political leaders, Congressional colleagues and other people who figure prominently in Lewis life. Also Read: 11 Best Documentaries of 2018, From 'Minding the Gap' to 'Monrovia, Indiana' (Photos) CNN Films is honored to be a part of telling Rep. John Lewis historic life through Dawns film, said Amy Entelis, CNN Worldwides executive vice president for talent and content development, and Courtney Sexton, vice president for CNN Films, in a joint statement. We hope generations to come will learn from Mr. Lewis remarkable American story. The untitled film marks the third collaboration between CNN Worldwide and producer Laura Michalchyshyn. Their previous collaborations include the CNN series Chicagoland and Death Row Stories, which is now approaching its fourth season as an HLN Originals Series. The deal was negotiated by Stacey Wolf, vice president of business affairs, and Kelly MacLanahan, assistant general counsel, for CNN Worldwide on behalf of CNN Films. Victoria Cook of Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz represented the filmmakers. Read original story John Lewis Documentary From CNN Films in the Works At TheWrap Jack Perry will act alongside his father, the late Luke Perry, in Quentin Tarantinos upcoming film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The professional wrestler, 21, opened up about the experience on Chris Jerichos podcast Talk is Jericho. Hes like, I want you to be in the same film or collection of footage that Im in, and he was really adamant about it, Jack said. I was like, Alright dad, Ill do it. He continued, My dad was so excited about that. That kind of reinvigorated him and reenergized him. He said, If I never work again, Im happy with this, Jack explained. As for working with Tarantino, Jack said, Tarantino is a really cool guy. Tarantino told me, I handpicked your dad for this, I guess because his role was kind of symbolic, Jack said. He definitely knew he wanted my dad for it. Jack and Luke Perry | Facebook; Gabriel Olsen/FilmMagic Jack admitted he didnt grow up watching his dad on screen but said the former Beverly Hills, 90210 actor threw himself into his roles including the ones that were not huge or commercial. I really havent watched a ton of him acting but he did these movies in Canada, like Goodnight for Justice, Jack said. He did those because he loved cowboy movies and he always wanted to be a cowboy. He did these movies so he could ride a horse. That, I think, in my heart, thats my favorite [film of his] because thats him doing what he wanted to do. RELATED: Molly Ringwald Says She Thought Late Riverdale Costar Luke Perrys Stroke Was a Temporary Thing Perry was hospitalized following a stroke on Feb. 27 after paramedics were dispatched to his home in Sherman Oaks, California. A source told PEOPLE he never regained consciousness. The actor remained under observation for five days, but died on Monday, March 4. He was 52. Tarantinos movie stars Leonardo DiCaprio, 44, as actor Rick Dalton, while Brad Pitt,55, plays his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth. The two are struggling with a changing Hollywood landscape at the height of hippy Hollywood, all exemplified by Daltons next door neighbor Sharon Tate, played by Margot Robbie, 28. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood premieres at the Cannes Film Festival later this month and opens July 26. Lynton Bryan who has been jailed for one year and 10 months after terrorising an air crew and attempting to open an emergency exit during a flight from Manchester to Turkey. (GMP) A man who terrorised cabin crew before trying to open the door of a plane has been jailed. Lynton Bryan of Fairway Road, Oldham pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment of an aircraft and passengers after a flight to Turkey on June 14 last year. When the flight, which was delayed for around three hours, was due to take off from the runway Bryan got out of his seat and opened the overhead locker telling cabin crew he was getting a sweet for a child. Despite being warned numerous times the 34-year-old proceeded to leave his seat before the flight was airborne. The incident took place on a flight from Manchester to Antalya, in Turkey. Stock image. (PA) During the four-hour flight Bryan became increasingly volatile, terrorising crew and passengers by following them around the plane, making aggressive gestures and shouting loudly. Throughout the entirety of the flight he accused staff of being racist and becoming increasingly aggressive. He forcefully banged on the flight deck door before pulling frantically attempting to open the exit. He threatened a member of cabin crew telling her [I am]a bad boy from Manchester, I will hunt you down and when I do, I will hurt you. On Tuesday he was jailed for one year and 10 months at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Ukip candidate questioned over rape comments Passenger complains he didnt get refund after crash kills 41 Two teens arrested after boy shot in Wolverhampton Detective Constable Brad Howarth of GMPs Manchester Airport Team, said: Bryan frightened not only the cabin crew who were simply doing their job and there to keep the rest of the passengers safe, but also frightened the holiday goers who should have been excited at the start of their trip. With the amount of witness accounts we were able to put to him in interview, he had little room to deny his vicious and repulsive actions. In a job like ours, you come across people who behave like Bryan on the street all too often but the way the crew dealt with him in the air and in the confines of a plane, while avoiding any physical harm coming to themselves or their passengers is truly commendable. However oblivious he seemed to be to the fright and alarm he was causing people on that flight, he now has time to think about that and nothing else as he remains firmly grounded for the next 22 months. Health Eat This, Not That! The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has surged worldwide in record timeit was only three weeks ago that the first case was identified in South Africa. Last week, it accounted for 73% of new COVID infections in the United States, according to the latest CDC data. It's highly contagiousscientists estimate it's twice as transmissible as the Delta variant, which itself was twice as transmissible as the original COIVD strainwhich calls for an abundance of caution. How do you know if you've been infect A moped that was stopped by a police vehicle following a pursuit (File picture: PA) A police driver could face the sack for knocking over a suspected thief who was on a moped, it has been reported. The Sun said the Metropolitan Police officer will go before a disciplinary panel today that will decide his fate. He is accused of driving his police vehicle into the path of a moped being ridden by a 17-year-old suspect in south London in May 2017. The incident followed the introduction of tougher measures to crack down on moped crime, including so-called hard stops, allowing police to knock suspects off their rides with their cars. Police introduced tough measures to tackle moped crime two years ago (Picture: PA) Prime minister Theresa May has previously called the tactic right. It is believed the teenage suspect was not seriously injured in the incident. Read more One million species at risk of extinction due to humanitys greed, scientists warn Most Leavers say its important your parents were born in Britain to be truly British Sweden tells citizens to stockpile cash in case electronic payments collapse However, the case was investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct - one of three examined by the body. The IOPC recommended gross misconduct proceedings against the officer - his case is being heard on Tuesday. The Metropolitan Police says moped crime has almost halved since the measures were introduced (Picture: PA) There are concerns among police officers that they have no legal protection for using the hard stop tactic on suspected moped thieves. Police say the tactic has cut moped crime by almost half in the capital since it was introduced. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the hearing is taking place but declined to comment until after the outcome. Met Police Federation chairman Ken Marsh told The Sun: What message does this case send? We believe this officer acted within guidelines, but is being fed to the wolves. Its not right. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo The Wu-Tang Clan was supposed to rule forever not on-again, off-again forever, but forever ever, a continuous reign on the throne. In the early-to mid-90s, it seemed like the trailblazing rap group would keep its promise, that they could withstand music industry nonsense and churn out groundbreaking hits. But when you have 10 artists in one collective, egos get in the way. With success comes money, then comes resentment, then the people you called brothers become strangers. So it was refreshing to see the RZA, Inspectah Deck, Masta Killa, Ghostface, U-God, and Cappadonna gathered on the sixth floor of NBC Studios in Manhattan on a recent Wednesday afternoon in April. They were there to celebrate their 26 years in music and promote a forthcoming Showtime docuseries, called Wu-Tang Clan: Of Mics and Men, that delves into the groups ups and downs. Theyd just finished soundcheck for their big performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and in six hours, eight of its core members (the GZA was absent; Ol Dirty Bastard passed away in 2004) would flood a tiny black stage and perform a song called Triumph, the monumental first single off their 1997 sophomore album Wu-Tang Forever. Though the track was released more than 20 years ago an eternity by current industry speed the music somehow still felt current, like the Wu had only recently steered the course of hip-hop to grittier terrain. The guys look older now, but aside from a few gray hairs and a little balding, the crew has the same energy it always had: nonchalant, cerebral, and businesslike. Theres love here, and after all these years of making music, traveling the world, and fighting with each other, it feels nothing could rattle the squad. Theyve gone through heaven and hell, enduring racism and poverty to reach the highest peak of cultural fame. Theyve also seen their music lose steam, their record sales dip, and their popularity diminish. The Fallon gig was a grand moment for them: Long after the Wu emerged as saviors of East Coast rap, theyre back in the city they call home, poised to stamp their legacy on the most storied show in late-night television. I just like to keep working, Wu member Masta Killa says with a laugh. Whether its one more time, whether its 100 more times, the time is now and people are recognizing. From so many different aspects, its definitely a resurgence and its truly a blessing. Story continues If there was pressure, you couldnt tell backstage. After soundcheck, the RZA, Inspectah Deck, and Cappadonna convene quietly with a small team of managers and publicists. Ghost is somewhere off eating a wrap sandwich in a tiny dressing room. Masta Killa strolls up the hallway toward the elevators for another press appearance in the building. U-God eventually meets him, plopping into a chair across from The Roots rehearsal space. Soon after, a guy in a black Wu-Tang logo t-shirt appears. Its a modified version of the groups iconic yellow W, with paw scratches right through the middle of it and the word Wakanda where the name Wu-Tang usually sits. The tweaked design doesnt just commemorate the massive cultural phenomenon of Marvels Black Panther, its an inside joke about getting members of the Wu together. Sometimes, the RZA says about trying to keep track of the group, its like wrangling cats. RCA/Photofest The Wu-Tang Clan dropped its debut album, Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), in November 1993 to a hip-hop culture largely preoccupied with what was happening out West. The year prior, Compton native Dr. Dre put out The Chronic. As a producer, Dre built the album around Parliament-Funkadelic samples and live orchestration, giving it a laid-back gloss that would come to define Los Angeles hip-hop. Wu-Tang was the polar opposite; the RZA formed the collective on Staten Island and created its music on old beat machines, opting for darker compositions that sampled obscure soul, funk, and gospel records from the 1970s. There was an overt sadness to the music he crafted. The beats felt dim and the mix seemed distant, like an artifact plucked from the bargain bin at the local record store. Couple that with the lyrics: C.R.E.A.M., the Wus biggest single to date, features Deck and Raekwon rapping in searing detail about the perils of surviving 1990s New York City. It was the feeling of black struggle, of stretching $10 to the end of the week until your paycheck hits your account. It spoke to oppressed people on the grind, to the projects in Park Hill, Stapleton, and Bed-Stuy. The music was raw and the imagery unsettling, but to those whove been in that situation, the Wu felt prophetic. They didnt filter themselves for the sake of commercial appeal either. They made listeners come around to them. It was unlike anything being played on FM radio or TV, and rap music would never be the same again. The music transcended, says RZA tells EW, and I think its even more relevant now all these years later. Indeed, there is renewed interest in Wu-Tangs music, partially because its members have remained visible through the years. Ghostface and Raekwon have found new life as solo artists. Method Man has appeared in a number of movies, played a central character on HBOs hit series The Wire, and is now co-host of a TBS rap battle competition series called Drop The Mic. The RZA also made his way to Hollywood, appearing in films like American Gangster and Funny People. Masta Killa equates part of the Wus resurgence to the heightened political climate in the United States, where theres a stronger appetite for music with substance. Thank musicians like Kendrick Lamar and Kamasi Washington as well; they released two albums in 2015 (To Pimp a Butterfly and The Epic) that were considered groundbreaking for hip-hop and jazz. Now theres an appetite once again for incredibly black, sonically challenging music to thrive in the mainstream marketplace. Everything has its time, Ghostface says. So nows the time for that. Now its time to start putting out conscious rap, or whatever you want to call it. You dont wanna keep hearing the same s, so if you got brothers like Kendrick and Kamasi, its like OK, cool, were adding on to what was already here anyway. Sue Kwon/Courtesy of SHOWTIME Directed by veteran music journalist Sacha Jenkins, Of Mics and Men walks through the groups formation in 1992, how they rose to global superstardom, and the circumstances that led to their demise. In 1997, shortly after the release of Wu-Tang Forever, the Wu pulled out of an international tour with rock outfit Rage Against the Machine because of internal strife. Then Ghostface dissed the tastemaking radio station Hot 97 at their own Summer Jam showcase; the station banned the Wus music for four years after that, which hindered the groups ability to generate income. The crews influence waned. Though they continued to release albums as a unit, it didnt have the same impact as their earlier output. In recent years, theyve been mired in questionable drama. In 2014, they announced a new album called Once Upon a Time in Shaolin, and that one very expensive copy would be auctioned off. The RZA called it high art; in the docuseries, the other members dispute the way it was compiled, saying they didnt know that their verses were being recorded for that project. (Ex-pharmaceutical executive Martin Shkreli bought the record for a reported $2 million; hes now in prison for securities and wire fraud, and Shaolin is the property of the U.S. government.) Then Raekwon openly criticized the RZAs beats, saying that he hadnt done enough to update his sound. They eventually reconciled in time for a new album, A Better Tomorrow, which was released in 2014. It got mixed reviews from critics. Through archival footage and first-hand interviews with all living members, Of Mics and Men is a definitive piece about one of musics most influential units that examines its broad influence on hip-hop music and pop culture overall. Its a story about a family, says Jenkins, who in the early 90s founded a zine called Beat Down and gave the Wu its first cover story on any publication. The Wu-Tang story is an important one, particularly for folks of color. It shows that you can have a vision, and you can manifest it. And you can put together a team, and your brothers can be on the same page with you, and you guys can share in the light and the success. While the doc celebrates the groups influence, in interviews, Wu members insist that theyre still looking forward, that theres more music to be created for future generations to discover. Until the next album, they continue to build on their 26 years in the limelight. This month, they had a street corner named after them on Staten Island not bad for a group of guys who didnt know if theyd be alive to experience moments like these. My theory is just Keep creating, says RZA. People didnt understand Tesla; were just figuring them out. I dont mind not being figured out by the generation Im living in. The legacy is still being created, but the foundation is there. Related content: A North Korean farmer walks through a village in an area damaged by summer floods and typhoons in South Hwanghae Province, Sept. 30, 2011. Reuters-Yonhap By Kim Yoo-chul South Korea will provide humanitarian food aid to North Korea after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for this idea in a phone conversation with President Moon Jae-in, a senior presidential aide said Wednesday. The unification ministry confirmed this later, saying it will decide on how much and when food aid would be delivered to the impoverished North. Moon and Trump exchanged views about a recently released joint food security assessment from the World Food Program (WFP) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) during their conversation Tuesday (KST). Trump told Moon that Seoul's provision of food to the North was "well-timed" and called the plan a "positive measure." "When you read recently released WFP reports about the food situation in North Korea, it's been advised to help needy North Korean citizens as the country is combating continued chronic food shortages. Seoul and Washington are speaking in one voice on such humanitarian assistance issues regarding North Korea," the aide said. The U.N. report said 10.1 million North Koreans continue to suffer food insecurity, and predicted falling crops yields, expanding food shortfalls and lower Public Distribution System (PDS) rations. "Overall, it is estimated that 10.1 million people (40 percent of the population) are food insecure and in urgent need of food assistance," it noted. The aide didn't rule out the possibility of the government being directly in charge of the entire process. "There will be announcements by government agencies but only upon the level of progress and results," she told reporters. The White House said Trump and Moon discussed recent developments with North Korea and "how to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization" of the country. Its brief statement, however, didn't mention food aid. "I told you the exact details of their phone talks," the presidential aide said. In 2017, South Korea approved a plan to send $8 million worth of humanitarian aid to North Korea in accordance with its greater aid policy that the administration claims is "unaffected" by geopolitical tensions. At that time, Seoul said it was aiming to send $4.5 million worth of nutritional products for children and pregnant women through the WFP and $3.5 million worth of vaccines and other medical supplies through UNICEF. This was put on hold after North Korea conducted nuclear and missile tests that year, but the United States signaled its openness for the aid to be delivered at the end of 2018 when the State Department said it was exploring ways to relax sanctions on humanitarian assistance. Biegun arrives in Seoul Washington's special envoy to the North Korea Stephen Biegun arrived in Seoul, Wednesday, and during his four-day stay he is expected to discuss specifics on delivering the aid and other related details, according to Cheong Wa Dae and diplomatic sources. In this Feb. 2, 2018 file photo, U.S. President Donald Trump listens during a meeting with North Korean defectors in the Oval Office of the White House. AP-Yonhap Click here to read the full article. Julia Nash felt as though shed stepped into a Wax Trax! Records museum when she started looking through Dannie Fleshers belongings. Flesher had cofounded the pioneering industrial label in 1980 with his life partner, Julias father Jim; they were responsible for putting out important releases by Ministry, KMFDM, Front Line Assembly and My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult, among others. When Jim died of AIDS in 1995, his partner tried to keep the label and the couples Chicago record store going. Flesher eventually retired to Arkansas, where he, too, succumbed to a bout of pneumonia in 2010. What Julia didnt know is that her dads significant other had also held on to nearly everything Wax Trax!-related and stashed it away for safe keeping. So she had gone to Arkansas with the hopes of recovering her fathers ashes, only to find herself embroiled in a legal battle for custody of his items. Because the state wouldnt recognize Jim and Dannie as a legal couple, she had to jump through hoops so everything wouldnt end up in a burn pile, she says. I dont think Dannies family understood the relevance and the history that was there, Julias husband, Mark Skillicorn, adds. When they finally started sifting through the belongings, they uncovered the original Wax Trax! record store sign, contracts from the labels later years and rare recordings by Coil, Ministry and Thrill Kill Kult. I dont even think I still have the words to describe how it felt looking at all of that, she says. Her daughter, who was a junior in high school at the time, filmed them excavating the storage space and that footage kicked off what would become a documentary about her father and Fleshers legacy. More from Rolling Stone Industrial Accident: The Story of Wax Trax! Records traces the labels history from Jim Nash and Dannie Fleshers affair (ending Nashs marriage to Julias mom) to the opening of the first Wax Trax! record store in Denver. Once they moved to Chicago in the late Seventies, they launched their label with releases by local artists like Strike Under and Ministry (as well as the drag queen Divine) and found their footing with industrial music. In the doc, Steve Albini talks about how the record store was important to Chicago; Ministrys Al Jourgensen describes the community surrounding the label; and Trent Reznor explains how it proved to him that interesting music could come from the Midwest, where hed grown up. Other talking heads include KMFDMs Sascha Konietzko, former Ministry member Paul Barker, Jello Biafra, Dave Grohl, Ian MacKaye and Chris Connelly. Just to boil it down for a 95-minute narrative is crazy, says Julia, who directed it. There are probably seven other 95-minute stories in there. Story continues She started giving the film screenings last spring and recently heralded its soundtrack release with a series of events that paired a showing of the movie with a performance by Ministry, which played an old-school set. Although the Brooklyn event attracted a line around the block of people dressed ghoulishly in black, Julia has been happy to see the doc reach wider audiences too. There have been a ton of people at these screenings that really have had no idea what Wax Trax! was about, she says. Its been amazing seeing people recognize that this is a love story overall about two guys who, against many odds at the time, really made things happen and didnt give a shit. I guess we didnt realize that it was more than just a label with some great bands on it, says Skillicorn, the films screenwriter, who is on the same call as Julia. It was much more of a cultural touch point. This was a pioneering label for a community that defied some of the stereotypes of what was happening. It was for a lot of people that had no experience with anybody who was gay. Its like the other side of the coin. Gay people can like something else besides Cher? Julia rejoins sarcastically. That is crazy. The record store and the label offices were a second home for Julia when she was growing up. Although she was more interested in other music growing up, she grew up looking at musicians like Jourgensen and Thrill Kill Kults Frank Nardiello like big brothers. Frank and I would go to lunch almost every day at this local diner, she says. He taught me how to rockercise exercise to rock music. And Al is a sweet, sweet guy. He gave me my first car, this lemon-yellow 1972 convertible [Volkswagen] Karmann-Ghia. My dad drove it to Kansas City, where I was living [with my mom] and proceeded to paint it black with a paintbrush. But prior to that, my dad spray-painted it two giant boobs on the hood. After he painted over it, the spray paint still kind of came through, and it was really nice driving to high school in that. She laughs. After the label declared bankruptcy in 1992, Jim and Flesher sold it to TVT Records and the couple also slowly divested themselves personally of the label and eventually the store. Julia says she never heard her father express regret over how it all fell apart. In hindsight, he said, I wish I wouldve had people sign contracts, but other than that, I dont think he would have changed anything, she says. Around the time he became sick, Julia had just had her daughter and what he cared about changed. She found it hard to keep the store going with Circuit City and Best Buy selling CDs for cheaper than cost and eventually it closed. In 2011, after Flesher died, she put together a three-night celebration of the label she dubbed the Wax Trax! Retrospectacle in Chicago. The concerts featured performances by Front 242, My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult and former members of KMFDM and Ministry. The positive turnout changed the way shed seen her fathers lifes work. I had no idea that the connection that that store, the label, the music, my dad and Dannie had with people, how it kind of altered the course of their lives in a way, she says. So the really touching stories from the fans are really what made us think about doing the film. Even though the doc is now available on Blu-ray and DVD, Julia is still sorting through the treasures she found in Fleshers storage space. The Wax Trax! label recently issued a soundtrack album for the movie, which features 15 previously unreleased recordings and mixes of songs by Thrill Kill, Revolting Cocks, Ministry, KMFDM and others. She and her husband hope to compile a coffee-table book history of the label at some point in the future. Its been years, and were still trying to get through everything because its just a staff of us, Skillicorn says. So when we get that properly catalogued, we can start to work with one of our designers and come up with something thats good. Quality is a big deal to us. We were joking the other day that it was going to have to be the size of those old Manipulator magazines from the Eighties that were, like, three-by-five feet, Julia says. Those were huge. Its just going to be a bitch for people to ship. Its going to be awful. From the way she talks about it, though, its clear that Julia is happy with her role as the Indiana Jones of industrial music, unearthing relics from Fleshers collection to present to the world. But then again, she says, an embarrassment of riches can be taxing in other ways. When were like, Oh, my God, we still have these boxes to go through, were not so glad, Julia says. But its all discovery nonstop, and from that discovery theres new ideas of projects or things to do to honor these guys. Best of Rolling Stone See where your favorite artists and songs rank on the Rolling Stone Charts. Sign up for Rolling Stones Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Stranger Rushes Into Burning Home to Save Kentucky Man from Fire: 'I Did What Needed to Be Done' Stranger Rushes Into Burning Home to Save Kentucky Man from Fire Dathen Collins was traveling to his uncles apartment in Kentucky on Friday when he stumbled upon a scene that would lead to him saving a strangers life. Collins saw a thick cloud of smoke coming from the Powhatan Trail apartment complex in Frankfort that night, according to WLKY. When he saw a man standing on a second-floor balcony, Collins quickly sprang into action. It was pretty rough. It was intense black smoke. I was just like, Somebody has to do something, Collins said, noting that he headed into the building and began climbing the stairs when he saw Mark Hughes. [He was] just kind of facing the wall, actually, Collins added. He didnt know where he was. He was lost. I grabbed him and walked him out. I just did what needed to be done. He instructed Hughes to grab onto his back before Collins carried the man out of the building, Hughes told WLKY. Collins set Hughes up against his car until the fire department arrived. The Frankfort Fire Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment from PEOPLE. The fire is believed to have started in the kitchen area of a first-floor apartment, according to the station. Both Hughes and Collins made it out unscathed. RELATED: Survivor of Plane Crash That Killed 41 Says God Will Judge Passengers Who Took Bags in Blaze The pair reunited on Tuesday, with Collins telling WLKY that the incident was a close call. I knew he was an older man, so I assumed he had health issues, Collins said. I dont know if he remembers me or not, but I remember him. Mark Hughes | WLKY Stories of harrowing fire rescues have made headlines in recent weeks. In March, a man survived after running into a burning multi-house blaze in Pala, California, to save his familys 2-year-old blue nose pit bull named Gabanna. I knew something couldve happened to me or both of us, but it didnt go through my mind at the time, Jose Guzman told PEOPLE. That dog is part of my family. Shes been with us through downs and ups and I couldnt leave her there. I would do it again if I had to; I would do it for anybody in my family. Video of the dramatic rescue quickly went viral, with dog lovers everywhere praising Guzmans decision to risk his life. In the footage, Guzman is seen running in, despite protests from firefighters. Within moments, he comes running out behind Gabanna. A work of art made by a Madeira High School student depicts a pig dressed as a police officer standing in front of a collage of newspaper clippings about police violence. (Photo: Courtesy of Facebook/Kellie Gantzer Williams) A high school students mixed media artwork depicting a police officer as a pig was pulled from public viewing just days before its would-be debut at a Cincinnati art fair on May 5 after some community members complained. The piece which features a drawing of a pig dressed as a police officer in the foreground and a collage of newspaper clippings related to police brutality in the background was on display at the Madeira Municipal Building. There, a local named Kellie Gantzer Williams spotted the portrait, which was done by an unidentified Madeira High School student, and reported it to Madeira Schools superintendent Kenji Matsudo. On Tuesday, she posted an image of the work on Facebook. Ive wrestled with whether or not to post this, Gantzer Williams wrote. I support free speech and pouring your feelings into artwork. But this goes way beyond that, it promotes hatred and divisiveness. I just cant believe this is hanging in a local municipal building. Gantzer Williams included Matsudos written response to her complaint, in which he apologized and confirmed the artwork would be taken down from the Municipal Building and removed from the art fair. Police officers and those in law enforcement deserve and demand our respect as they serve to protect our communities, Matsudo wrote. Ive spent the last several hours looking into the how or why this piece made it into the art show, he continued. For everyones benefit, until those questions are answered, the organizers of the art fair took the artwork down prior to the show this morning I can assure you that it does not represent my views or the overwhelming majority of our student body or staff. The offending artwork was one among dozens of creations by Madeira students of various ages, according to The Enquirer. City manager Tom Moeller expressed that, in light of this controversy, the vetting process for art fair contenders would be amended going forward. In the past, we have never seen a reason, or never came across a reason, to inspect what is being displayed in the municipal building, Moeller told The Enquirer. Thats one thing were going to discuss with the Madeira Schools. When this piece was apparently first noticed, our police department was notified. We, in turn, notified Madeira Schools. They reacted quickly and had it removed before the show actually started. Story continues The work was created in response to an assignment asking student artists to read the news then interpret and visually summarize what theyd learned. I dont know that [the student] intended it to be anything other than this is my assignment. I dont know that he was making any political statement, Matsudo said. He concluded that if the MadeirasSchool board had it to do over again, they would have paused and put up a different piece of art. Representatives from the Madeira Womans Club, which organizes the art fair, were the ones to formally request the work, according to Matsudo. Yahoo Lifestyle has reached out to the Womans Club for further comment. Matsudo said that the decision to remove the piece was ultimately made out of concern after the student himself became the target of demeaning social media posts. The students parents were notified and made to understand the decision and the motive behind it before the artwork was removed. The Madeira Police Department was also made aware of the students piece. Images of this art project began circulating on social media and our office did receive complaints about it, a statement from the police department reads. The members of the Madeira Police Department fully respect and support the students right to free speech, and recognize that this young artist is very talented. However, officers are troubled by the perceived message of the students art project. Another Cincinnati police organization the Fraternal Order of Police, Ohio Valley Lodge 112 wasnt quite as diplomatic. They reportedly sparked a backlash when they revealed the underage students identity in a Facebook post, calling the artwork a piece of trash, according to The Enquirer. Art is meant to evoke feelings and cause reactions, one person wrote on the unions page. Its not meant to pacify. The union later removed the post, and as of Tuesday morning, their Facebook account appears to be offline. Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. DUP leader Arlene Foster with Sinn Fein's Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill at the funeral of Lyra McKee. Photo: Charles McQuillan/AFP/Getty Images Talks on restoring power-sharing involving five of Northern Irelands main political parties will begin in Belfast on Tuesday. Northern Ireland has been without an executive for more than two years as a result of a political stalemate between the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and Sinn Fein. The five-week negotiations, the first since February 2018, will be formally opened by the British and Irish governments. Prime minister Theresa May and her Irish counterpart Leo Varadkar last month urged political leaders in Northern Ireland to heed the unmistakable message heard at the funeral of murdered journalist Lyra McKee. Martin Magill, a Catholic priest, was given a standing ovation during a eulogy delivered at McKees funeral when he asked why it took the death of the 29-year-old woman, who was shot by dissident republicans in Londonderry, to get politicians to come together. READ MORE: Tories lose only council seat in Northern Ireland Talks on Tuesday are expected to focus more on the process and timeline, with substantive deliberations on restoring power at Stormont beginning on Wednesday. Northern Ireland secretary Karen Bradley and Irish foreign minister Simon Coveney will lead the proceedings, which are expected to involve round-table discussions, working groups, and one-on-one meetings with political parties. Bradley on Monday announced a 105m investment package for the Londonderry region. The talks also come after last weeks local elections in Northern Ireland failed to change the political calculus. Both the DUP and Sinn Fein remain the largest political parties. The collapse of power-sharing in January 2017 followed a scandal involving a failed renewable energy incentive scheme known as the Renewable Heat Incentive. But talks have not progressed for a number of reasons, including Sinn Feins objections to both the DUPs use of a parliamentary mechanism to prevent the introduction of same-sex marriage and its position on the Irish language. Story continues Both parties also fundamentally disagree about Brexit, with the DUP staunchly in favour of the UKs departure from the EU, and Sinn Fein opposed. READ MORE: Nancy Pelosi visits seamless Irish border At 6:00 a.m. when most kids are just waking up for school, the doors of Monarch School open so their homeless students can come in for a hot shower and breakfast before classes begin. Nestled on the outskirts of downtown San Diego, Monarch School is the only public K-12 school in the U.S. that exclusively services the homeless youth population. Since most homeless shelters only open their doors to provide a safe place to rest for the night, those who are displaced have no place to go during the day. Its sort of the ignored populations. When folks think about homelessness, they think about veterans or they think about individuals on the street, says Monarch CEO Erin Spiewak who works alongside the school principal and leads fundraising efforts. They dont think about children. They dont think about families. In her 18 years at Monarch School, Spiewak has seen a slew of students come and go, but only 77 have graduated students can be enrolled at the school anywhere from two to three weeks, to several years until the families housing situations have stabilized. For this transient population, the average student is enrolled for about 11 months. Without a permanent address, it was difficult for Athina Reyes, 17, and her siblings to enroll in a school until they found Monarch. I dont like being in shelters, because I get anxiety. I just dont like being around a lot of people. Now a 17-year-old high school senior at Monarch, Reyes has gone from shelters to motels, and friends couches after her father was deported to Mexico. Her mother continues to struggle to make ends meet and secure stable housing in the U.S., and goes back and forth across the border as a U.S. citizen as she tends to her youngest child who is unable to walk. As they await affordable housing lotteries to open up, Reyes and her 15-year-old sister, get up at 4 a.m. to make the two-hour journey to San Diego from Tijuana, Mexico. Together they cross the border in a long pedestrian line, then transfer to a trolley, and finally walk the rest of the way to school. Story continues Once at school, Reyes does whatever she can to stay positive and turns to writing lyrics as a creative outlet. When I hear something that's going to get me sad, I go to writing right away, or I just do whatever to keep my mind off that, she said. Her internship coordinator, Michael Gaulden, has helped Reyes identify her love of writing music. Inside Monarch School in San Diego, CA, the only public K-12 school in the US dedicated to homeless students, internship coordinator Michael Gaulden and high school senior Athina Reyes, discuss possible work opportunities. Because Gaulden has lived through homelessness as a teenager himself, he has an intimate understanding of the emotional, social, and academic impact homelessness has on kids. When youre below the poverty level and have to work your way up to become poor right, its crazy. It's a trap that many people do not escape. It perpetuates, it's generational, Id almost say it's hereditary, Gaulden tells Yahoo Finance. We start with zero, less than zero. So how do you take zero and build upon that? How do you build something from nothing? It's impossible. To give the kids every advantage they can possibly have to break the cycle of homelessness for their families, Gaulden partners with small businesses in San Diego county to coordinate internships for the students at Monarch School who sign up. If you give them some resources while helping them goal set for a brighter future you're handling short-term goals. And each short-term goal will get you to that long-term goal, says Gaulden. The internship program also teaches the kids how to allocate money theyve earned. Reyes, now onto her third internship program, has been able to save $160: I get an advantage because it looks good on my resume and I get more experience. I'm learning about budgeting and putting my money somewhere safe, in a bank. But shes only 1 among 23,000 homeless youth in San Diego. In the U.S., there are one or two million students without a home, according to the National Center for Education Statistics -- and for women, minorities and children, that number is rising. And in 28 states, unaccompanied youth comprise 10% or more of the total population of students identified as experiencing homelessness, per the US Interagency Council on Homelessness. Homeless youth hasnt been the focus of a lot of the homeless outreach efforts. Because of that, the population has continued to grow, Spiewak tells Yahoo Finance. For a lot of our students who are in families who had huge turmoil in the job market, stability and work wasnt something that they had necessarily been exposed to. Focusing specifically on families and children has proven to make an impact: over a quarter of those who have graduated Monarch School are employed, more than half are enrolled in college. And efforts to share this learning for other school districts are ongoing. We can't grow the number of students we serve here, were thinking about and looking at how we can help support those other public schools that are serving homeless youth, says Spiewak. When we discover what works very well with this population, we can share that with others. Jeanie Ahn is a senior reporter and producer at Yahoo Finance, covering personal finance and women in business. Follow her on Twitter @jeanie531. WATCH MORE: The one strategy you need to get hired faster These states have the highest number of open auto recalls 39 million Americans can't afford a summer vacation Why millennials would rather buy lottery tickets than invest in the stock market Late-night comedy is making a meal out of the toxic three-ring circus of the Trump administration. Every weekday evening into earliest morning, faux pundits take to their desks armed with quick punchlines and arch deep dives into the political disasters of the day, mining as many jokes as possible for an increasingly hungry audience from news that often feels catastrophic. But one aspect of late-night comedy that gets relatively less attention than quotable monologues and breaking-news interviews is, ironically, the content that often requires bigger teams and considerably more time to produce. Field or on-the-street segments, in which correspondents pursue a story outside the confines of a studio, dont tend to respond to the events of any single day and therefore dont keep up with the news cycles rapid expiration dates. Instead, they dig into one subject at greater length, peppering their explorations with jokes along the way. Related stories Comedy Central Launches In-House Studio, Sets Deals with 'Broad City,' 'Daily Show' Producers Comedy Central Strikes Development Deal With Roy Wood Jr. Since The Daily Show popularized the mockumentary take on this particular cable news staple, its fitting that two new attempts to make the comedic field segment relevant again come directly from its team of correspondents, both former and current. In docu-series Klepper, Jordan Klepper, who left the mother ship to helm his Infowars-style parody show The Opposition, the comedian embeds within sub-communities in an effort to better understand the country, from the inside out. A few days later, The Daily Show will premiere Desi Lydic: Abroad, an hourlong special from current correspondent Lydic in which she travels to three countries to highlight why they have much higher gender equality rankings than the United States does. Of the two programs, Desi Lydic: Abroad will look more familiar to Daily Show fans for its overt stabs of humor and wry cynicism. The special opens with Lydic storming into the office of Daily Show host Trevor Noah, furious that the U.S. was ranked 49th in the most recent Global Gender Gap Report; it ends with her screaming in helpless rage when she discovers that an updated version of the report knocks the nation down even further, to 51. In between existential breakdowns, she travels to Iceland (No. 1), Namibia (No. 13) and Spain (No. 24) to talk to some of the women making change and to show their progressive policies in action. Story continues Lydic leans hard into her well-meaning but naive feminist character, emphasizing her relative lack of knowledge and experience in order to accentuate the expertise of her interview subjects. With barely 10 minutes to afford each country, Abroad has a similar problem to Klepper insomuch as theres just not enough time for it to meaningfully explore the issues it raises, but its a sharp effort nonetheless. Tellingly, the most compelling parts of Abroad arent the Rah-rah, sisterhood moments underscored by inspiring music but the few scenes in which it allows for friction. Lydic running off camera to look up intersectionality and talking to younger Namibian women frustrated with how their country has formed around them is far more interesting than the bland nevertheless, she persisted montages that end the hour with a neat bow. Klepper, too, trades on its hosts Daily Show persona that of a privileged prepster whose ego was only outweighed by his obliviousness. He sometimes draws on that character, especially when trying to highlight how cushy his own life is in contrast with those of the people hes interviewing. But Klepper isnt a parody of Viceland-style documentaries. For the most part, the program is a completely earnest exploration of communities that dont get as much media attention as they should as Klepper and its host make plain. With each episode clocking in at less than 21 minutes, the show struggles to go deeply enough into everything it pursues, leaving viewers with little more than an impression of the complex communities Klepper visits each week. But hes clearly in awe of them, marveling at veterans channeling their grief into the bonkers experience of amateur wrestling, and teachers and undocumented students defying Georgias prohibitive university laws to educate and learn on their own terms. He even gets arrested for protesting alongside them at a hearing, and while he makes some jokes on his way to prison, he emphasizes that with this show, his priority isnt making his audience laugh. If youve never thought twice about going to college or driving a car, and can get jokes while getting arrested, youve got some privilege, Klepper says, and you can use it to help others who arent so lucky. Klepper, it seems, is his own attempt to do just that. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Carl Benjamin, right, discussed raping Jess Phillips, left, in a video post (Pictures: Getty) A Ukip candidate in the European elections is being investigated by police after releasing a video suggesting he might rape Labour MP Jess Phillips. Carl Benjamin, who had previously come under fire for a social media message in which he said he "wouldn't even rape" the Birmingham Yardley MP, posted a video online suggesting that "with enough pressure I might cave". West Midlands Police said they had received a report of a malicious communication and were investigating whether an offence had been committed. Ms Phillips said she broke down in tears after being told of Mr Benjamin's comments. Mr Benjamin released the video on YouTube, where he has a large following under the name Sargon of Akkad. Jess Phillips said she broke down in tears after learning of the comments (Picture: Getty) After announcing a list of spoof Ukip policies, including invading Spain and restoring the British Empire, he said: "There's been an awful lot of talk about whether I would or wouldn't rape Jess Phillips. "I've been in a lot of trouble for my hardline stance of not even raping her. I suppose with enough pressure I might cave. But let's be honest, nobody's got that much beer." A West Midlands Police spokesman said: "Police have received a report of malicious communications relating to MP Jess Phillips. Read more One million species at risk of extinction due to humanitys greed, scientists warn Most Leavers say its important your parents were born in Britain to be truly British Sweden tells citizens to stockpile cash in case electronic payments collapse "Officers have spoken to Ms Phillips and the comments are being investigated to establish if an offence has taken place." Ms Phillips told the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire that she broke down in tears in Birmingham city centre "just because I felt the enormous weight of years and years and years of abuse". I cried in the street in Birmingham city centre - I felt the weight of years and years of abuse @jessphillips. Police are investigating UKIP candidate Carl Benjamin after he saying he might rape the MP. pic.twitter.com/AeAA7elAuD Victoria Derbyshire (@VictoriaLIVE) May 7, 2019 The Labour MP, a frequent target of online trolls, said: "I realised that I did what all women do in these situations - I had been putting a brave face on it and pretending that it was all fine and that I could cope. Story continues "It dawned on me that, for four years essentially, this man had made a career out of harassing me. And I felt harassed. Police are investigating whether Ukip election candidate Carl Benjamin broke the law by suggesting he "might" rape Labour MP Jess Phillips (Picture: PA) "I felt 'How can somebody say that they would rape me if forced, and be a legitimate candidate in an election?'" She said it was "one thing when he was just some idiot off the internet" but now "it's a different thing when he is standing on the same platforms I am standing on, that he will potentially go to a parliament himself as an elected representative". "I cannot believe our system is so weak at the moment that's allowed to happen." Watch the latest videos from Yahoo 2-year-old named Aurora runs to greet Princess Aurora from 'Sleeping Beauty' at Disney originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com A little girl named Aurora ran to greet Princess Aurora at Walt Disney World in a sweet moment captured on video. Aurora Bamrick, 2, visited the park on April 30 with her family, where she met Princess Aurora from "Sleeping Beauty" for the fourth time in her life. Little Aurora was previously introduced to her at 6 months, 1 year and 1.5 years old. In the footage, Aurora is seen running to Princess Aurora before hugigng her and taking a stroll in matching outfits. PHOTO: April 30 was the fourth time Aurora Bamrick met Princess Aurora. The 2-year-old was introduced to her at 6 months, 1 year, 1.5 years and then at 2.5 years. (Theresa Bamrick via Storyful) PHOTO: Aurora Bamrick, 2, visited Disney World on April 30 with her family, where she greeted Princess Aurora. (Theresa Bamrick via Storyful) (MORE: 2-year-old wows crowd as she dances with 'Mary Poppins' character Bert at Disney World) "It was so magical," mom Theresa Bamrick of Dallas, Texas, told "Good Morning America." "I was just trying not to cry!" PHOTO: April 30 was the fourth time Aurora Bamrick met Princess Aurora. The 2-year-old was introduced to her at 6 months, 1 year, 1.5 years and then at 2.5 years. (Theresa Bamrick via Storyful) PHOTO: Aurora Bamrick, 2, visited Disney World on April 30 with her family, where she greeted Princess Aurora. (Theresa Bamrick via Storyful) Theresa Bamrick said Princess Aurora always goes out of her way to make her daughter feel like royalty. (MORE: This service dog met Cinderella at Disneyland and he can't stop cuddling her) "She spent so much time with her, gave her kisses, let her sit on her lap, and when baby Aurora was not happy to say goodbye, Princess Aurora got up and walked her to her stroller," Bamrick added of the previous times the two Auroras met. "All that magic stuck with her and gave Princess Aurora the number one spot!" PHOTO: Aurora Bamrick, who is 2 years old, met Princess Aurora for the fourth time at Disney World on April 30. (Theresa Bamrick via Storyful) The Walt Disney Co. is the parent Company of ABC News. Deadly Colorado school shooting revives memories of past tragedies originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The deadly school shooting in Colorado Tuesday brought back familiar feelings of grief and fear for local parents, including the district attorney who will be handling the case. "If you had suggested to anybody behind me or in this room that within 20 years in 20 miles we would have dealt with Columbine, the Aurora theater, Arapahoe High School, the shooting of Zack Parrish and four other deputies, we'd have thought you mad, and yet here we are again," District Attorney George Brauchler said at a news conference Wednesday. His comments come as the community in Douglas County, Colorado, grapple with the aftermath of the shooting at the STEM School in Highlands Ranch, which left one victim dead and eight others injured. Two suspects are in custody. "There are those that wont be classified as victims [who are] feeling it right now," he said, specifically talking about mothers and fathers who he said will be having serious conversations about whether or not to send their kids to school. (MORE: 1 student dead, 8 injured in Colorado school shooting, authorities say) "My kids are going to go to school today and I recommend everyone else send their kids to school too," Brauchler said. "These are aberrant acts," he went on. "The problem is when you get three or four or five of them in a 20 mile [area]" people start to think they arent as uncommon as they seem, he noted. PHOTO: District Attorney George Brachler speaks at a press conference, May 8, 2019, regarding a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch the previous day in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (KMGH) "This is not who we are and my concern is ... this becomes how people view us," Brauchler said. (MORE: 20 years after Columbine, what's changed -- and what hasn't -- for school shootings in America) Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said an investigation into Tuesdays shooting is underway and law enforcement officials are still trying to determine a motive. The two suspects an adult and a juvenile, both of whom attended the school were apprehended by responding officers in two different parts of the school. The adult was identified by officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. The juvenile suspect has not been publicly named. Story continues PHOTO: Devon Erickson, an accused STEM School shooter, appears at the Douglas County Courthouse in Castle Rock, Colo., May 8, 2019. (Joe Amon/Denver Post via AP) A charging document released Wednesday by the Douglas County District Court ahead of Erickson's hearing says he is facing a count for murder. Brauchler said earlier the charge is not official or final. Erickson appeared at his advisory hearing Wednesday, nodding when the judge read the terms of a protection order against him, which requires him to stay away and not contact the other suspect as well as any witnesses or victims. He must also relinquish any weapons he has in his possession. Erickson shook his head no when the judge asked if he had any questions. PHOTO: Devon Erickson, 18, one of the two suspects in a shooting at the STEM School in Highlands Ranch, Colo., appears in court for his first hearing on May 8, 2019. (KMGH) The juvenile suspect appeared in court Wednesday wearing a gray jumpsuit. He looked ahead and addressed the judge clearly when asked questions, and his mother was permitted to sit at the table with him since he is still a minor. Spurlock said that three of the wounded remain in intensive care but the other five students have all been released from local hospitals. All of the injuries as well as the fatality were the result of gunshots. The parents of Kendrick Castillo confirmed to ABC News that he was killed in the shooting. His father, John Castillo, called his son a hero. "I want people to know about him," John Castillo said through tears. PHOTO: Kendrick Castillo was identified by his parents as being the student who died at a Colorado high school shooting on May 7, 2019. Kendrick and his mother in a family photo. (Courtesy John Castillo) PHOTO: This undated photo provided by Rachel Short shows Kendrick Castillo, who was killed during a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (Rachel Short via AP) Few details about how the shooting unfolded have been made public. But Spurlock did say that the suspects entered the school, which does not have metal detectors, in the middle school section. There was an armed security guard at the school, but after police were notified of a shooting, officers on street patrol were at the scene in less than two minutes. (MORE: The 11 mass deadly school shootings that happened since Columbine) "Once at the school, they immediately engaged the suspects and started to rescue the children that were injured," Spurlock said during the news conference, clarifying that shots were not exchanged between the officers and the suspects. PHOTO: Students and teachers raise their hands as the exit the scene of a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on May 7, 2019 in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (Tom Cooper/Getty Images) Spurlock said that two pistols were used in the shooting. The states red-flag laws, which help prevent certain individuals from buying guns, would not have applied in this case because "neither one of them is of legal age to purchase a gun anyway." Spurlock told ABC News after the press conference that the responding deputies needed to "force their way into the school" because the building had been put on lockdown. He said the officers "just happened to pick a door," learning moments later that "one of the suspects was right down the hall from that door." "I think divine intervention maybe played a role in that," Spurlock said. PHOTO: Sheriff Tony Spurlock speaks at a press conference, May 8, 2019, regarding a shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch the previous day in Highlands Ranch, Colo. (KMGH) "Then they took that person into custody and then started to search for the other person," he added. Gov. Jared Polis spoke at the news conference, asking for the community to come together and support one another, saying, "We've been no stranger to tragedy." "We are a resilient state, whether its in the face of fire floods or human tragedy like this," Polis said. "America has seen too many of these senseless acts of violence." Trump administration overwhelmed by record border crossings, asylum requests originally appeared on abcnews.go.com U.S. authorities stopped more than 109,000 undocumented migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border last month in a wave of unauthorized crossings not seen in over a decade, officials said on Wednesday. (MORE: Trump administration requests $4.5 billion in new border funding) The 109,000 figure for April represents people apprehended for trying to cross between ports, as well as some who present themselves legally at ports of entry in a bid to claim asylum. Officials have said if such levels continue, the U.S. will be on track to handle some 1 million undocumented migrants this budget year almost double of last years number. The April apprehension levels are again record-setting, and they cause dire concerns for us, one Homeland Security official said. The number of people apprehended at the southern border in just over the past seven months now surpasses last years total, as well as every annual total since 2009, according to newly released U.S. Customs and Border protection data. PHOTO: TThe intake area for migrants waiting to be processed at the new temporary holding facility opened by Customs and Border Protection in El Paso, Texas, May 2, 2019. (Paul Ratje/AFP/Getty Images) (MORE: Trump asks Supreme Court to reinstate asylum ban during appeals) While even higher annual apprehension totals were seen under the Bush administration, CBP officials say the vast majority were adults from Mexico. The bulk of last month's migrant influx comes from more than 58,000 families and more than 8,800 unaccompanied kids arrested on suspicion of crossing illegally. As a result, Homeland Security officials said agents have been forced to expedite the release of about 32,000 families in recent months. (MORE: Former White House chief of staff joins unaccompanied migrant children shelter board ) The growing trend continues to challenge President Donald Trump as his administration pursues some of the most hard-line U.S. immigration policies in recent history. The White House has made multiple attempts to deter migrants from seeking refuge in the U.S. In November 2018, the administration announced a new policy to bar migrants from filing an asylum application if they crossed the border between ports of entry. The move was blocked by a San Francisco judge just 10 days after the policy was announced. Story continues (MORE: Trump proposes new rules for asylum seekers, including charging a fee) The Trump administration now is updating how U.S. officials interview asylum seekers. According to internal documents and emails obtained The Washington Post, the new guidelines direct officers to take a more skeptical and confrontational approach to migrants. U.S. Customs and Immigration services confirmed to ABC that it is updating its asylum officer training. As part of this periodic update, we have reiterated to asylum officers long-standing policies that help determine an individuals credibility during the credible fear interview, USCIS Spokeswoman Jessica Collins said in a statement. PHOTO: Construction of a new migrant processing facility is underway at the Customs and Border Protection - El Paso Border Patrol Station on the east side of El Paso on April 26, 2019. (Paul Ratje/AFP/Getty Images, FILE) Exceptionally high levels of migration are also expected for the month of May, an official said, with Border Patrol apprehending more than 33,000 people in the past 10 days. Last month, CBP constructed two tent cities near the border to hold migrants in Texas. The agency is expecting to open another in Arizona, an official said Tuesday. South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon, right, meets Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno at Quito's Presidential Palace, May 7. Yonhap Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon on Tuesday expressed hope that Ecuador could send a business delegation to South Korea to help Seoul better understand the South American country's move to attract foreign investment. Lee made the proposal during his talks with Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno during his official visit to the country. "I hope Ecuador could create a delegation consisting of government officials and businesspeople and send it to South Korea," Lee said. "We have a lack of information such as Ecuador's economic situation or what kinds of investment your country wants. So if such a delegation visits South Korea, we would like to discuss the issue," he added. President Moreno expressed optimism about Lee's idea, saying that he will seek to form the delegation. South Korean Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon, right, visits Aymesa Hyundai-Kia motors manufacturing plant in Quito, Ecuador, May 7. Yonhap CONSTANCE BANNISTER CORP/GETTY IMGES I grew up in a family that didnt show affection. I knew I was loved, but it was rarely expressed, either in words or with a hug. Then, at the age of 40, I met Judy. I quickly noticed how often she told her kids she loved them and how she hugged everyone hello and goodbye. As with any habit, I picked it up, and the more I did so, the easier it became for me. Now I never fail to hug friends or family members, and it has completely changed how I relate to them. Its an awesome feeling! Oh, I love you, Judy! Betty Plough, Traverse City, Michigan. These are little things that you can do to be a true friend. Five months after my husband, my two-year-old daughter, and I moved 2,000 miles from home, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl with severely clubbed feet. This marked the beginning of a long series of doctor appointments. Taking care of two young children, one of whom required constant medical attention, meant that I was always tired and behind on my household chores. One day, we came home from yet another doctors visit to find the front door ajar. I cautiously proceeded into the house, only to find the floors spotless, the dishes cleaned and dried, and the dirty laundry washed and folded. Upstairs, the beds were made, and there were even flowers in a vase beside my bed. It turns out that my friend Joy was driving by my home and noticed my car was gone, so she took the opportunity to help me out. I learned an important lesson that day about compassion. And this friendship was sealed for life! Judith Heicksen, Santa, IdahoMy fiance walked out on me three days before our wedding. Now every year on the anniversary of the day I would have been married, my best friend texts me a hilarious (and completely inappropriate) picture, reminding me I dodged a bullet. His humor makes a hard day better. Jason Woods, via TwitterBecause we are all over the country, my three closest friends (Miranda, Rachel, and Johlandi) and I keep in touch via group texting. We share daily struggles, complaints, triumphs, and, most of all, laughs. These special ladies respond nonjudgmentally to whatever I tell them, allowing me to be as vulnerable as I please. Conversely, its a blessing to help them through their difficult times. Having such receptive friends has taught me that life is more fun and meaningful when I share myself with others. Lauren Young, Rockingham, Virginia. Try these ways to be a better friend. After my wife of 44 years died, I didnt feel the urge to socialize. But that didnt stop my friend Tony from inviting me to join a group of guys who got together every Thursday for dinner. I told him I wasnt ready. He called again the next week, and again I said no. He kept calling every week, and finally I said, OK, Ill go. Anything to keep you from calling me every week. It has now been six years since my wife died, and thanks to Tony, I have been going to dinner every week with the gang weve dubbed ROMEO Retired Old Men Eating Out. David Fenwick, Ocean Township, New JerseyOne night after teaching a late class, I found a sticky note on the window of my car. It read You are beautiful inside and out and featured a little heart. I never did find out which one of my friends left it for me, but it is still on my dashboard and means more than anything to me. Jennie Berglund, Burnsville, MinnesotaAfter seven years of teaching, I was let go before the school year ended. I was devastated. Making matters worse, some of the other teachers stopped talking to me. But one coworker stood by me, going so far as to ask the principal to let me work with her till the end of the school year. He reluctantly agreed. Continuing to work gave me back my dignity. Im now at another job, where I am happy and confident. Beth Klementovic, Exton, PennsylvaniaToday is my birthday, and I know my friend Linda is making me a cake. Sometimes when youre an adult, no one thinks to do that for you. Tamara Castellari, Parachute, Colorado Story continues COURTESY LORRAINE MORROW In my senior year of high school, my mother passed away. Dad, who lived in Seattle, wanted me to live with him. But my friend Joy invited me to stay with her and her father until I graduated. Joys mother had passed away a few years earlier, so Joy understood my terrible loss and depression. Because of her generosity, I was able to complete my last year of high school with all my friends, affording me a bit of normalcy. Lorraine Morrow, Bonney Lake, WashingtonMy best friend and I are both trying to lose weight, so we text each other every day to check in. He encourages me to work out when I dont want to or to put down the ice cream. It really helps me stay on track. Rick Nelson, via TwitterWhen I was pregnant, I feltand actedas if I had PMS for the entire nine months. My best friend, Laura, told me she was calling me every other day to make sure someone was still speaking to me. That is true friendship. Gail Bua, Nutley, New JerseyWhenever I visited Ruth at the rest home, Id always greet her with, Good morning, sweetie. She, in turn, would say, Heeeyyyyyy! Ive been missing you. For as long as I knew Ruth, she greeted me with Ive been missing you, even if Id just seen her that morning. And when Id leave, it was always, Come back! As if you need more of a reason to have friends, these facts prove that friends are healthy for us. Ruth was my first friend in South Carolina. Our house was built on her property. I went over and introduced myself one day and told her that Im out every morning and if she liked, I could bring her newspaper to her door. She said, Well, I suppose that would be all right. It wasnt long after that I started bringing her the afternoon mail and cookies too. And soon I started taking her to the library, doctors, and the store. At the rest home, if Ruths breakfast tray was ready, Id pick it up. I knew how she liked her grits, with just a bit of butter and salt, and that she really, really liked orange juice and always got two glasses. After a bit, it would be time to go. Shed give me a kiss and tell me to come back! I am ashamed to admit that at one time, both my grandmothers were in convalescent homes and I rarely visited them. I cannot change the person I was, but I can try to be a better person today. Ruth is no longer with us, but I wish to God that I could come back and visit with her again. Janet Alden, Inman, South CarolinaLisa comes over, and we do each others nails while we lie in bed watching TV like high school girls. Shannon Hagen, Minneapolis, MinnesotaWhen I was nine, I had a friend with the unusual name of Westa Joy. I can still picture her wild, naturally curly hair; her porcelain skin; and her sparkling hazel eyes. I, on the other hand, was overweight and shy. We used to walk laughing and holding hands down a sandy dirt road in southeastern New Mexico. She would tell me the plot of the latest Nancy Drew book she was reading. I had never read a book, and I didnt want to. Reading was much too difficult for me because I was dyslexic. But thanks to Westas storytelling, I eventually bought all the Nancy Drew books. Thank you, my dear childhood friend, for giving me the joy of reading. Essie Bowden, North Kingstown, Rhode Island COURTESY MEGHAN SIMECEK I came down with a horrible stomach bug when my husband was out of town. My best friend showed up with saltines, Sprite, essential oils, andthe best parther Netflix password. Meghan Simecek, Friendswood, TexasDawn, my friend and coworker at the public defenders office, would bring me some of her dinner from the night before and leave it in the fridge at work when I was in the middle of a long trial. This way, I wouldnt have to worry about feeding myself on late nights. Adrianne McMahon, Faribault, MinnesotaIf she knows Im having a rough day, my friend will show up and take my kids for the day. By just showing up instead of calling, Stacy knows I cant tell her not to come. Courtney Clements, Nampa, IdahoI met Mary Lou 14 years ago, while tending the grave of my 34-year-old son Kevin just weeks after he passed. Mary Lou was visiting her son Gary. She smiled, and soon we were sharing our storiesnot only about our sons but about life in general. On my next visit with Kevin, I saw a piece of paper sticking out from under a rockan inspirational note from Mary Lou. I wrote her back and put my note under the same rock. A week later, I returned to find another note from Mary Lou. We went back and forth like this for years. Today, we still see each other, but usually over a hot fudge sundae. We talk and laugh and rarely feel the need to discuss our deep pain. Thats why we are friends for life. Patricia Coler-Dark, Concord, CaliforniaShannon, my best friend of over 26 years, and I text each other every morning with Good morning, beautiful! or Hello, gorgeous! That way, we both start the day with a smile. Katrina La Force, Petaluma, CaliforniaWhen I was four, my mother had her hands full with six children. Luckily, there was our neighbor Berla. Berla, 48, had no children, so I had her full attention. She taught me simple things, like how to care for my teeth, as well as big things, like a love of long walks. She also taught me to play cribbage, which came with these words of advice: There is a perfect strategy for every hand dealt. That concept has impacted every aspect of my life. Linda Sealock, Reno, NevadaMy best friend in college taught me spontaneity. One day Christie persuaded me to run around campus dressed in battle armor and wielding a cardboard sword, all while laughing maniacally. People stared at us, but we had too much fun to care. Caroline Samuels, Logan, UtahI was having a horrible day dealing with job and divorce stress, and my friend Anna brought me ice cream. Just having her show up to listen to me whine was exactly what I needed. Tracy Clark, Lakeville, Minnesota. If you want to show your friend how much they mean to you, get them one of these best friend gifts. We polled industry experts about the next wave of household names on Instagram and beyond. The influencer scene is more crowded than ever, especially for social media-famous personalities that really make it big. For them, success might mean being able to quit your day job to be a full-time influencer because a social media-centric side-hustle becomes so lucrative it should be the main event. Or, success could be launching an ambitious project a fashion or makeup line, a book, a modeling contract, a documentary that was perhaps the ultimate goal from the start. An influencer is best poised to succeed if he or she has "offline credibility," forging a career that's not contingent on social media fame, explains Max Stein, founder and CEO of Brigade Talent, whose talent roster includes Leandra Medine, Reese Blutstein and Isabella Boylston, a principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre. "A movement I'm seeing as a manager is that brands are interested in people that have a discernible skill set, and/or are contributing work to the creative economy, other than sharing posts on social media. People are after talent that has a career that's created in a way that's not just happening online." That offline credibility "can create value in someone just as much as their follower count," he adds, noting that he's getting positive feedback from brands that are "seeing strong results off-platform and in terms of conversion" from these well-rounded, accomplished, more-than-just-Instagram-famous talents. Stein points to his client Shiona Turini: "She obviously had her magazine career, and now has a big business as an 'influencer,' but she's still styling covers of major American magazines and costume-designing; those two kinds of work, the more public work and behind-the-scenes work, really complement each other. Brands like working with her because they're working with someone doing something else" besides influencing. "Essentially, her B2B advertising for her services is also kind of business-to-consumer; it's all interchangeable." Story continues Medine is among the OG mega-influencer set, though somewhat unintentionally: A very early-to-the-game fashion blogger, Medine sees her sizable social influence as a byproduct of her success with her site, and the Man Repeller brand as a whole. (Spinoff projects like a memoir released in 2013 and a shoe line launched in 2016 don't hurt, either.) The handles piquing Medine's interest lately aren't people she considers influencers firstly or by definition. Rather, they're "changing the way we have known how to tell stories." For example, Jessica Yellin, a news correspondent "using her social following to reinvent the way we think about broadcast journalism; to be able to catch a snippet of what's going on in the world, hear her political views and what she thinks through Instagram Stories is really interesting, and it's one of the most refreshing ways I've seen Instagram used to serve a bigger topic." Also on Medine's radar: Caroline Calloway, "who's basically releasing chapters of a memoir from the perspective of a twenty-something, through her Instagram account," Medine says. She sees Yellin and Calloway as illustrative of new ways to powerfully harness social media, particularly Instagram, that eclipse familiar (follower-)winning formulas. It's an interesting way to consider how much more Instagram can provide, beyond "beautiful girl, wearing a dress," or "interesting face, sharing vulnerable moment," Medine notes. Some influencers who will rise to the top of the next generation will likely be true change agents, with the desire and capacity to evolve or better the world in some way not just photogenic folks with the biggest follower counts. "I think in 2019, the pendulum will shift over to influencers that are actually influencing change in culture," explains Julia Gall, accessories director at Marie Claire. Xenia Adonts, Caroline Daur, Karina Nigay, Jessica Mercedes Kirschner and Irene Kim were top performers in a November 2018 Launchmetrics report, which analyzed influencers with 500K to 2M followers during the Spring 2019 season's fashion month; these five had the strongest MIV (Media Impact Value, a term Launchmetrics came up with) compared to their peers. "While these girls may have strong visibility, we can see they have even stronger engagement, and thus they present great potential for growth in untapped markets," explains Yuli Ziv, managing director, USA of Launchmetrics. "If impressive MIV numbers equate to particularly strong engagement followers that comment, double-tap and are both interested and invested enough in a stranger to communicate with him or her in some way(s) that can lead to increased presence, and better crossover potential, like expanding from beauty to travel," Ziv explains. We polled a dozen players in the media, retail, influencer marketing and digital strategy spaces who revealed the handles they've been engrossed with lately and why they're so confident that we'll see a lot more to come from the talents behind those follower counts. With varied career trajectories and social media motives, the names ahead are poised to dominate your feeds in 2019 and beyond. Monroe Steele Handle: @monroesteele Nominated by: Nikki Ogunnaike, Elle.com's style director Current follower count: 26.2K Appeal factor: "I've been following Monroe for a few years now, not knowing that she was a physical therapist moonlighting as a fashion blogger. I mention that because she was able to stay consistent and engaged all while maintaining a full other career." Why her future's so bright: "In late 2018, she decided to become a full-time influencer, and I can't wait to see how her content evolves. I like following her because she talks about everything from shopping for luxury products on a budget to why we should #MuteRKelly. She's my kind of girl, stylish and woke." Ellie Thumann Handle: @elliethumann Nominated by: Besidone Amoruwa, Instagram's head of emerging talent partnerships Current follower count: 2M Appeal factor: "A budding 17-year-old model and influencer from Arizona, Ellie is natural, fun, spunky and totally down to earth. She likes to share what matters to her in her own way. She can go from natural to glam to cozy." Why her future's so bright: "I predict this will be a big year for her. Not only will she be turning 18, but she also signed to Next Models and booked her first editorial shoot in Seventeen and that was only in January! I believe this is the year that brands will start really paying attention to her and that she'll get to do bigger things, like walking runways and clothing collaborations." Gabriel Zamora Handle: @gabrielzamora Nominated by: Besidone Amoruwa Current follower count: 947K Appeal factor: "Late last year, Gabriel was sharing the funniest videos on Instagram and doing the most creative content, and since then he has grown. He is fearless, personal and honest. He side-steps the drama and focuses on beauty, reviewing the most relevant content. He's authentic." Why his future's so bright: "This will be a big year for Gabriel because he has stood the test of time. He's ready to stand out with more brand opportunities and use his voice to empower the beauty + LGBT communities." Ava Jules Handle: @avajules_ Nominated by: Besidone Amoruwa Current follower count: 583K Appeal factor: "Ava kept popping up in other people's content and she instantly stood out. She has a natural ability to relate and share with her audience. She doesn't really care if something's in or not; she just does her." Why her future's so bright: "I think this will be the year more people catch on to her, especially with her growth across social channels. I think she will do more with health and beauty." Lulu Bonfils Handle: @louisvuittoncrocs Nominated by: Kristie Dash, Instagram's head of beauty partnerships Current follower count: 58.9K Appeal factor: "I was introduced to Lulu through her manager at Muse Curve, but I've been Instagram-stalking her for about a year now as she's been doing work with Fenty Beauty and Savage x Fenty. Aside from being absolutely gorgeous, I love following her for beauty inspo, random tidbits about life as a model in New York and an overarching sense of confidence that somehow manages to rub off on you as a follower. At first glance, you might assume she stands out in a saturated market because brands and magazines are finally starting to shoot a more inclusive group of people, but it's way more than that." Why her future's so bright: "She has star power. Lulu has shot a bit with CR Fashion Book and their team is known for discovering models early in their careers. She's definitely one to watch. Fenty tends to launch a ton of models' careers look at Slick Woods! I think Lulu has an opportunity to do more beauty collaborations and campaigns, so I'm curious to see if any other brands scoop her up." Yana Sheptovetskaya Handle: @gelcream Nominated by: Kristie Dash Current follower count: 113K Appeal factor: "I can't remember how I first found Gel Cream about a year ago I think it was on the Instagram Explore page. I'm fascinated by what Gel Cream has been doing, because there's really nothing else like it. Yana Sheptovetskaya, the creator, essentially made beauty product reviews Instagram-friendly by focusing each post on just one product, a swatch of its texture or color pay-off and giving it a brutally honest mini-review." Why her future's so bright: "She's built a loyal following by sticking to this theme, and her educational Instagram Story content is next-level. I think her following has probably grown primarily through word of mouth so many followers tag their friends in her posts and have full conversations but I think she's just getting started. Since she doesn't do ads or sponsored posts [yet], I could see her doing really genuine collaborations with brands she believes in. She also just launched merch, so there are a lot of different ways she could go." Jeanne Grey Handle: @thegreylayers Nominated by: Brittany Hennessy, Carbon's co-founder and chief relationship officer (influencer app/network); Hearst Digital's former senior director of influencer strategy and talent partnerships; author of "Influencer: Building Your Personal Brand in the Age of Social Media" Current follower count: 470K Appeal factor: "I was first introduced to Jeanne almost three years ago by her then-agent, Jessy Grossman. When I met her in person I was completely surprised at how bubbly and down-to-earth she was. Her Instagram feed is very editorial, so I wasn't sure what to expect. Influencer marketing is very big business, and many of them are chasing paychecks. When you find an influencer who is chasing content, they are going to be a success because that is what helps you stand out in a saturated market. Jeanne checks in with her audience often and asks them what they want to see. The result is often content she wouldn't necessarily have thought to post, but performs really well." Why her future's so bright: "Jeanne has amazing content, but her personality is what gives her an edge. This year, she's finally venturing out onto YouTube and sharing her day-to-day with her audience. In 2019, she is also focused on highlighting Southeast Asian countries; last year, she launched FROM, which highlights one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry from Southeast Asian merchants, with a portion of proceeds going to the Salvador Campus, an island college of Iloilo City, Philippines. She kicked off 2019 with a trip to Vietnam with Qatar Airways and will be attending the fashion shows of some up-and-coming designers from the region. Storytelling is making a huge comeback, and being able to convey thoughts and feelings to your audience in addition to beautiful content is what will put influencers in different leagues." Katie Sturino Handle: @katiesturino Nominated by: Aya Kanai, Hearst Womens Fashion Groups chief fashion director Current follower count: 313K Appeal factor: "I found Katie Sturino because her best friend, Ryan Dziadul (@ExtraExtraStyle), introduced us. Katie is smart, hilarious and has a unique POV on the fashion and beauty markets. She's a hustler, and I mean that in the best possible way. She finds her entrepreneurial inspiration in every part of life. She started a beauty line, Megababe, with instant cult-favorite Rosy Pits [deodorant] and is a champion for rescue dogs everywhere. She's a triple influencer! Katie stands out because of her personality and the 'voice' of her writing. From IG captions to her blog, her copy is something only she could write. She's raw, funny and honest with her audience." Why her future's so bright: "She continues to grow her #makemysize campaign for inclusive sizing, and she's sure to create more beauty products we can't live without, and she's getting married. What Katie does best is find the white space, the place where an audience exists but no one has noticed it yet. So I can't predict what she will do next, but I'm sure it will be original." Katie Jane Hughes Handle: @katiejanehughes Nominated by: Aya Kanai Current follower count: 274K Appeal factor: "I started following when Katie had around 20K followers; now, she has over 200K. She's done it with hard work, consistent high-quality content and integrity. I like seeing that success. She's a professional make-up artist, but she makes learning the tricks of the trade approachable for the average person. I learned everything I know about shadow and eyeliner from her." Why her future's so bright: "Katie's audience has grown, but she's always mindful in the brands she chooses to collaborate with." Michelle Wong Handle: @labmuffinbeautyscience Nominated by: Kristina Rodulfo, Elle.com's senior beauty editor Current follower count: 84.3K Appeal factor: "Michelle is a Sydney-based, purple-haired blogger who has a PhD in chemistry and is like 'Myth Busters' for skincare. Her product reviews and tips go deeper than any other beauty influencer out there. I found Michelle via one of her beauty myth vs. truth posts this one, specifically, which I hear so often in marketing and it was incredible to read her thorough breakdown of why it's incorrect. She has a scientific perspective that's extremely educational, but still feels approachable, like your smartest friend. Also, she's a moderator on the wildly popular subreddit SkincareAddiction. While she does still post videos and photos of herself like your average beauty influencer, she is truly advice- and service-focused." Why her future's so bright: "As more people move away from 'Instagram makeup' and focus more on minimalism, the interest in skin care is exploding. The average person is more knowledgeable about skin-care routines and active ingredients, but still learning. I think Lab Muffin Beauty Science will soon become everyone's biggest reference. She already has an e-book out, but I'm feeling like she will land a bigger book deal that'll become a skin-care bible of sorts for all of us." Klaudia and Laura Badura Handle: @thebaduratwins Nominated by: Kristina Rodulfo Current follower count: 196K Appeal factor: "I found Klaudia and Laura Badura when they were featured on Fenty Beauty's Instagram page in December. They're identical twins, so they already stand out in the influencer market. They create matching makeup looks that are so striking when photographed together. There's something almost fantastical, unreal and editorial about it." Why their future's so bright: "Both of them have significant followings individually, but they're poised to make a splash as a duo. They are both stunning and experiment with not only twin looks for makeup, but also hair and fashion, so their page is rich with opportunity for collaborations on all fronts. I think they will probably launch a big product collaboration with a really fun, visual makeup brand." La'Shaunae Steward Handle: @luhshawnay Nominated by: Alyssa Hardy, COOLS senior fashion editor Current follower count: 93.1K Appeal factor: "I found out about La'Shaunae when she collaborated on a thigh-high boots collection with Jeffrey Campbell about a year ago. I reached out to her and have been following her journey ever since. She is unabashedly herself. She works against outdated societal and industry standards on a daily basis, despite the many obstacles she's had to face. While many influencers stay quiet for fear of repercussions from brands, she calls them out when they take advantage of her or marginalized people in the industry. On top of that, she is beautiful and has an incredible sense of style, constantly showing off her incredible outfits and stunning photos." Why her future's so bright: "She's a model with a voice that this industry desperately needs. She exists as an example for so many consumers who don't get the representation they need and deserve. Her Universal Standard campaign was so successful because of her willingness to be that person, and that's not easy. She was in a really vulnerable position that she completely leaned into. She also has many fans outside of her following, from editors to celebs. People are just rooting for her. It helps that she's got the drive to back it up, too." Isabella Fernandes Handle: @fauxnandes Nominated by: Alyssa Hardy Current follower count: 6.4K Appeal factor: "I found Isabella after she did a campaign with @Behindthescars. She's a burn victim with very similar scars to me we both have burn scars on our arms and so I immediately started following her. Scars are honestly so badass, and so many people have them. She's found a way to take something that is deeply traumatic and make it relatable and fashionable. Plus, she's an amazing model. Her photo shoots are gorgeous and she definitely has the chops for doing something big." Why her future's so bright: "In 2018, she did an ad campaign with Missguided that garnered her a lot of media attention. This year, we're really going to see her keeping up that momentum on a larger scale. I'd love to see her on a runway!" Sarah Feingold Handle: @sarah.feingold Nominated by: Alyssa Hardy Current follower count: 89.9K Appeal factor: "I saw Sarah's Instagram through Explore about six months ago. She's got such a cool style and posts colorful but wearable looks that I can't get enough of. We've become so inundated with influencers that show over-the-top beauty tutorials with 20 products that make your skin flawless, or turn you into a whole different person on purpose. And while I think that type of work is fun and cool, Sarah is showing off a way to play with makeup that's attainable. It's almost like its an accessory. In November, Sarah was part of Glossier's new Gen G lipstick campaign. As we've seen with so many other Glossier influencers, fans of the brand really resonate with the models. Sarah is also the founder of NBGA (No Basic Girls Allowed), a Vice subsidiary that covers beauty and fashion. She has the know-how, the confidence and the platform to do big things in beauty." Why her future's so bright: "Sarah is really good at the content game, between her Instagram and NBGA, so I feel like she'll keep expanding in that way." Nam Vo Handle: @namvo Nominated by: Jenna Rosenstein, HarpersBazaar.coms senior digital beauty editor Current follower count: 202K Appeal factor: "I found Nam Vo because her captivating, mind-blowing highlighter application videos kept popping up on my Instagram Discover page. I also saw a lot of the beauty accounts I follow repost her videos and her work on their own feeds." Why her future's so bright: "I love that Nam Vo is a makeup artist with a clear vision and aesthetic: the Nam Vo Glow. She's all about creating dewy, glistening, super-highlighted skin. She even has her own hashtag, #dewydumplings. I think she's been smart about honing in on her unique aesthetic and putting her own face out there. Her skin is so beautiful and glass-like, it doesn't even look real, so I will buy or try any skincare product or highlighter she recommends. I can see her becoming the next big beauty professional-influencer, like Jen Atkin or Huda Beauty. She already promotes one-off projects with Olehenriksen, Caudalie and Beautyblender, but I could see her getting a big contract with a prestige brand." Shiona Turini Handle: @ShionaT Nominated by: Julia Gall, Marie Claire's accessories director Current follower count: 177.3K Appeal factor: "Shiona is shifting her fashion and beauty content to highlighting her new moves as a costume designer, developing the style of the characters on 'Insecure,' now in its fourth season, and the upcoming Lena Waithe-written film, 'Queen and Slim'." Why her future's so bright: "She makes sure she's invested in important stories through television and film for African-American culture, and has gained massive respect from her followers and industry professionals alike for it. Someone recently mentioned to me that this upcoming generation is the 'authenticity generation' I think people will be rooting for, and positively responding to, influencers who are actively making changes in the industry." Lilian Ahenkan Handle: @flex.mami Nominated by: Devon Abelman, Allure's digital beauty reporter Current follower count: 32.9K Appeal factor: "When I Interviewed her in April 2018, Lillian mentioned using her Instagram as a way to show a realistic representation of POC and to help change people's understanding of what 'flattering' makeup looks like for them. This sentiment rings true in her colorful, fluorescent eye makeup looks. And honestly, her feed is just so fun to scroll through with all its neon hues." Why her future's so bright: "Some of the coolest makeup artists I know follow her, so it's only a matter of time before others catch on. I would love for her to drop a neon eye makeup collab with a beauty brand." Zay Ali Handle: @zay.ali Nominated by: Devon Abelman Current follower count: 4K Appeal factor: "With his razor-sharp winged liner, bold brows and dewy skin, Zay Ali is blurring the lines between traditional [gender norms]. By taking makeup looks typically associated with classic, feminine beauty, he proves that makeup doesn't have a gender. None of these looks make him any less of a man, or more like a woman. They just make him him. With beauty becoming more and more accessible for everyone, Zay Ali further represents this movement and the direction beauty should continue moving toward." Why his future's so bright: "Major forces in fashion and beauty are already paying attention to him. Makeup artists like Danessa Myricks and Pat McGrath are fans. I'd love to see him in a Fenty Beauty or Pat McGrath campaign. His style echoes their same level of edgy-meets-glam." Salwa Rahman Handle: @urgalsal_ Nominated by: Devon Abelman Current follower count: 12.4K Appeal factor: "I can't stop bookmarking her looks on Instagram, and I've even recreated a couple of them. She's evidence that makeup doesn't have to be a way to make you look conventionally pretty or help you correct things society has told us are imperfections." Why her future's so bright: "Makeup can, and should, be an artistic medium, and Salwa's makeup looks are like little works of art. They're beautifully photographed, too. I could picture her in a Milk Makeup campaign." Reese Blutstein Handle: @double3xposure Nominated by: Julianne Fraser, founder of Dialogue, an NYC-based digital brand marketing consultancy Current follower count: 245K Appeal factor: "I first met Reese for a New York Fashion Week campaign I ran for Woolrich last February. She came across my radar as someone who has a creative eye, unique styling and a raw and honest approach to her social channels; all things that have set her apart in the ever-growing influencer world. She's only 22, and has already been hired for major fashion collaborations with brands like Gucci, Miu Miu and Paco Rabanne." Why her future's so bright: "She hasn't had a lack of press attention over the last few years (including on this very website!) but my guess is 2019 will be the year she explodes on the scene, collaborating directly with a brand's creative director on an ad campaign or collection." Amalie Gassmann Handle: @amalie_gassmann Nominated by: Julianne Fraser Current follower count: 110.1K Appeal factor: "Amalie is a model, world-traveller and is currently studying film. I collaborated with her on a campaign for my client Heroine last winter, and she left a lasting impression on me. Not only is she strikingly beautiful, likely due to her French, Japanese and German genetic pool, but she is incredibly sweet and creative as well." Why her future's so bright: "Her background of growing up in New York and Paris and traveling the world for modeling brings a unique angle to her social content, and her videography skills really set her apart from others something I think brands will try to align with." Melissa Alatorre Handle: @alatorreee Nominated by: Hilary Williams, Digital Brand Architects VP of talent Current follower count: 254K Appeal factor: "I signed Melissa when she was working at a NARS counter. Now, she has over 600K subscribers on YouTube, and just got back from visiting Mr. Francois Nars on his private island in Bora Bora. Her journey has come full circle. She's definitely one to watch." Anna Cornelia and Thora Valdimars Handles: @annasarlvit and @thora_valdimars Nominated by: Caroline Maguire, Shopbops fashion director Current follower counts: Anna, 57.5K; Thora, 69.7K Appeal factor: "I recently found both of these girls on Instagram and have been following them for a few months now. As fashion director, I'm always looking out for new brands, new trends and new ways of styling. These girls check all of those boxes, and I love keeping up with the brands that they are loving, and how they're putting their outfits together. These influencers are nailing the trend, are right on the emerging designer pulse and have a unique, recognizable aesthetic." Why their future's so bright: "I think they will continue to grow by staying true to their perspectives on fashion. I think these influencers have already distinguished themselves through their clear and thoughtful fashion POV. In a crowded social landscape, I anticipate that influencers with a distilled vision will continue to grow." Interviews have been edited and condensed for clarity. Homepage photo: Shiona Turini. (Christian Vierig/Getty Images) Our moms have taught us endless life lessons, and they've certainly offered up a few style tips along the way. With Mother's Day right around the corner (and the inevitable "What awesome thing will we buy Mom this year?" question looming), the Who What Wear team has been feeling particularly nostalgic about the women who raised us. In fact, we've spent hours filling Slack chats with our mothers' best pieces of fashion wisdom (and sharing epic baby/toddler/teenager pics as proof). The advice from three of our moms in particular is just so good we had to share. Oh, and as for that perfect Mother's Day gift? In an effort to select something more thoughtful than a flower arrangement (but not so specific as to require a probing question on pant size), the team agreed on a unique fragrance. Carolina Herrera Good Girl Dot Drama Collector Edition checks all the boxes and comes from an especially chic mother-and-daughters team (see above). Any stylish mom will appreciate the soft notes of jasmine and sultry notes of tonka, and we're also pretty sure she'll love the unique stiletto-shaped bottle. Sharon Yi, our senior executive director of branded content, describes her mom's style in one simple word: loud. Just in case that gold puffy-sleeve dress wasn't a dead giveaway, she confirms that her mom did in fact style her up in bold clothing her entire childhood. "She treated me like a real-life doll," Sharon explains, which isn't surprising, given that her mother went to FIDM and started her own clothing manufacturing company. It also isn't surprising to hear that her mom is never short on style advice The latest: "Wear something boxy and loose on top if you're going tight on the bottombalance is key. Always make sure your look is interesting. And layer." Carolina Herrera Good Girl Dot Drama Collector Edition ($117) Sharon says she's not gifting her mom with clothing for Mother's Day this year, as her mom shops for a living. So what's Sharon buying instead? "It's much safer to opt for a fragrance she'd use and need. The Carolina Herrera Good Girl Dot Drama Collector Edition is spot-on thanks to its stiletto-shaped bottle. It won't look out of place next to my mom's giant jewelry stand." Story continues On the opposite end of the spectrum, Natalie Cantell, our fashion director, says her mom (or rather, mum, as she's from New Zealand) would tell us to keep things simple. "'Simplicity is elegance.' I can't count the number of times she's said that to me over the years, usually to deter me from some of my less-commendable fashion choices (like when I was set on wearing mismatched shoes to fashion week circa 2007)," Natalie shares. "Now that I'm older and have discovered all her old photos starring classic decade-driven style, I know I should have listenedit's pretty apparent that the way she dressed in her 20s is a hundred times cooler than the way I was dressing in mine." Stephanie Staerker, Who What Wear's producer, describes her mom's style as very Zsa Zsa Gabor: "She loves furry jackets, big gold accessories (see above), and fun patterns. It's her take on Old Hollywood glam, although I grew up in the South." However, Stephanie says that her mom would likely describe her own style as "bohemian, free-spirited, and comfortable." ("There's clearly a disconnect," Stephanie adds.) Stephanie's mom also served up multiple pieces of amazing style advice for us. You know, things like "Don't be afraid to stand out, wear whatever you feel comfortable in, accessories complete any look, and no white after Labor Day." The woman has a point. Speaking of Carolina Herrera, Shop More Gifts Mom Will Love: Carolina Herrera Polka-Dot Asymmetric Dress ($2490) This chic dress perfectly embodies Natalie's mom's "simplicity is elegance motto," thanks to the mini polka dots in black and white. Carolina Herrera Polka Dot Silk Dress ($2690) This larger polka-dot print makes this dress exactly the kind of standout piece we think Stephanie's mom would approve of (as long as it's worn before September 2, of course). Carolina Herrera Polka Dot Flare Dress ($4490) Feeling fancy? This gorgeous silk dress perfectly embodies timeless elegance and modern sophistication all wrapped into one polka dotprinted wonder. Read More from Who What Wear Its not the 14th century, but the plague is still a very real threat in certain parts of the world. Last week, a Mongolian couple died from the disease after eating the raw kidney of a marmot in Bayan-Olgii province, which borders China and Russia. According to BBC News, the incident sparked a six-day quarantine in the region the couple was visiting before they died. The couple reportedly decided to eat the animals raw organs, including its kidney, gallbladder and stomach, because of the local (and ironic) belief that eating marmots can have health benefits. Eating raw meat of any kind, can be dangerous, however, since it can harbor dangerous bacteria. In this case, it seems the marmot had the plaguea potentially deadly disease caused by bacteria often found in animals and fleas. According to the CDC, the plague can be spread through flea bites, infectious droplets (such as saliva from a cough), and contact with contaminated fluid or tissuelike eating infected organs. As a result of their dinner choice, the surrounding village was quarantined. Health officials worried that the couple may have spread pneumonic plague, a form of the disease thats highly contagious and spread through airborne droplets. More than 100 people whod come in contact with the couple since they were infected were isolated and given preventative antibiotics. News of the quarantine reportedly kept many locals off the streets, in fear of contracting the deadly bacteria. RELATED: An Idaho Child Was Diagnosed With the Plague. How Worried Should You Be? According to the Washington Post, the couple reportedly died of organ failure caused by septicemic plague, which occurs when the plague bacteria enters the bloodstream. Unlike the bubonic plague, which is usually caused by a flea bite and can take up to six days to show symptoms, septicemic plague can cause the body to go into shock and organ failure shortly after transmission. Symptoms include fever, lightheadedness and abdominal pain. While the plague is extremely rare in the United States, it does occur occasionally in rural areas, usually in the western part of the country. Its more common in Africa and Asia, where hundreds of cases have been reported over the past 20 years. Regardless of where you live, you can protect yourself from plague by treating your pets for fleas and avoiding contact with wildlife, as well as reporting any dead animals to the local health department. RELATED: An Oregon Teenager Has The Plague. Here's Why You Shouldn't Freak Out World War II Vet Dies on Flight Home After 'Amazing Weekend' Organized to Honor Him for His Service A World War II veteran spent his final days taking a trip of a lifetime alongside his family and getting honored for his service before he sadly died on his special flight home. Over the weekend, Frank Manchel, a former World War II U.S. Army Sergeant, was joined by his two sons, nephew, and brother in Washington D.C. as part of a commemorative trip offered by the Honor Flight Network in San Diego. The nationwide nonprofit organization works to honor Americas veterans by transporting them at no cost to their war memorials in Washington D.C., according to their website. Franks amazing weekend, however, would turn out to be his last as the 95-year-old humble hero suddenly collapsed and died on his special flight home to San Diego, the citys Honor Flight hub announced in a statement on their Facebook. It is with our most deepest sympathy that we send our condolences to the Frank Manchel family, they wrote. Mr. Manchel passed away on the flight to San Diego last evening. He collapsed and resuscitation measures were taken but he could not be revived. Frank Manchel | Honor Flight San Diego/Facebook RELATED: Hundreds of Strangers Gather to Honor a Vietnam War Veteran Who Died Alone: He Had No One His son, Bruce Manchel, who was on the flight with him, issued a statement on their Facebook and said the weekend was quite memorable for his father. Frank Manchel was so excited to go on Honor Flight. To be with both of his sons as well as his 93-year-old brother who met him in Washington, D.C. was so special, he wrote. My fathers passing was the ending to the most amazing weekend, surrounded by his newest best friends. We thank all of you Honor Flight San Diego, American Airlines, San Diego International airport, friends, and supporters for your concern and for allowing the weekend to be so special for all of us to share together, he continued. Frank passed quickly and peacefully and the compassion and respect that that was shown to our family will be treasured always. May he rest in peace as he is now with his other beloved son Jimmy. Story continues Speaking to Fox 5 San Diego, Bruce elaborated on their time in Washington D.C., noting how Frank was honored by strangers passing by in the street an experience Bruce said his father embraced. This trip brought my dad out of his shell, he told the outlet. When we were walking down the streets of D.C., people were just coming up to him, shaking his hand, [saying] thank you for your service. He was just soaking that up. On Sunday, Frank and Bruce boarded the special flight, which was filled with veterans, and headed back home to California. The former Army Sergeant was even photographed on the plane, proudly showing off his World War II veteran hat and trip badge, while another captured Frank flashing a giant smile and holding up a thank you sign. Frank Manchel | Honor Flight San Diego/Facebook RELATED: Oldest Man in the U.S., WWII Vet Richard Overton, Dies at 112: Not Just a Hero, But a Legend Midway through the flight, Bruce told Fox 5 that his father got up to go to the bathroom and suddenly collapsed. Luckily, a passenger nearby caught him, who later told Bruce that Franks death was instantaneous. The fella who caught my dad came up to me and said, Listen, your dad within 5 seconds of having him in my arms, was gone,' Bruce recalled to the outlet. With only 45 minutes left before landing, Bruce quietly sat next to his deceased father but the silence was cut short by a chorus of singing veterans who joined in on an emotional rendition of God Bless America. When they finally landed, Bruce told Fox 5 the passengers exited the plane as normal but made sure to pay their respects to his father by saluting him as they went by. Adds Bruce: It was a beautiful scene. According to the nonprofit organization, Franks body was then draped in an American Flag that Honor Flight San Diego carries on every trip, with chaplains on the flight leading prayers for the fallen vet. Medical personnel, firefighters and law enforcement saluted Mr. Manchel as paramedics escorted his body to the tarmac, they added. RELATED VIDEO: 92-year-old veteran throws out Mariners first pitch Services for Frank are expected to occur in the coming days. As a way to show their final respects, American Airlines (who had been the carrier of the flight Frank died on) offered to fly him and his family members to his final resting place in Michigan, free of cost, according to Honor Flight San Diego. May this humble hero RIP. ]]> HOUSTON (Reuters) - Anadarko Petroleum Corp's board on Monday backed a $38 billion bid from Occidental Petroleum Corp, adding pressure on rival Chevron Corp to raise its offer or walk away from the takeover contest. The decision capped a series of moves by Occidental to finance and reduce hurdles before its $38 billion deal after Anadarko balked at several earlier offers. Occidental received the board's endorsement after raising $18.8 billion in cash pledges that allowed it to avoid a vote by its shareholders on the deal. Chevron has four days to decide whether it wants to alter an existing merger agreement that Anadarko already accepted or make a new bid. A spokesman confirmed it had receive the notice of termination from Anadarko and declined comment on its next steps. Anadarko said its board had unanimously determined that the revised Occidental proposal constituted a "superior proposal" and that it intended to terminate the Chevron merger agreement, a decision that would see it pay Chevron a $1 billion termination fee. The decision was a victory for Occidental Chief Executive Vicki Hollub, who pressed Anadarko's board to reject the Chevron agreement and pulled in support from billionaire Warren Buffett for the deal. She convinced Buffett to invest $10 billion in the deal after flying to Omaha, Nebraska, to make the case. Days later, Hollub won a deal with French oil giant Total SA to take most of Anadarko's international assets, including a liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique estimated to cost up to $25 billion to complete. Total agreed to pay $8.8 billion for the assets once the merger goes ahead. Hollub wants her target's prime position in the top U.S. shale field. Anadarko holds nearly a quarter million acres (102,000 hectares) of land in the Permian Basin, the biggest prize for Chevron and Occidental. The Permian has become the epicenter of the shale oil-and-gas boom, helping drive U.S. oil output to a record 12 million barrels a day (bpd), more than Russia and Saudi Arabia. Story continues Anadarko first disclosed a merger deal with Chevron on April 12 after snubbing a higher bid from Occidental. That prompted Occidental's Hollub to go public with her offer, to pressure Anadarko to reconsider its stance. The change of heart came after Occidental increased the proportion of cash in its $76 per share offer to 78 percent cash and 22 percent stock, removing a stock exchange requirement for the approval of Occidental's shareholders. Some investors in Occidental oppose the decision to bypass a shareholder vote of approval. T. Rowe Price Group Inc, said on Monday it intended to vote against the Occidental board of directors at the annual meeting on Friday in protest. Occidental said in a statement that it looked forward to completing the discussions and "executing our merger agreement with Anadarko to complete this exciting transaction." (Reporting by Shanti S Nair in Bengaluru and Gary McWilliams in Houston; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien, Cynthia Osterman and Peter Cooney) By Suleiman Al-Khalidi AMMAN (Reuters) - Arab inhabitants of Syria's Deir al-Zor began a third week of protests against Kurdish rule, the largest wave of unrest to sweep the oil-rich region since the U.S.-backed forces took over the territory from Islamic State nearly 18 months ago, residents, witnesses and tribal figures said. The protests which erupted weeks ago in several towns and villages from Busayrah to Shuhail have now spread to remaining areas where most of the oilfields are located in the SDF controlled part of Deir al-Zor, east of the Euphrates. Arab residents under YPG rule who have been complaining of lack of basic services and discrimination against them in local administrations run by Kurdish officials have been growing restive in recent months. The forcible conscription of youths into the SDF as well as the fate of thousands imprisoned in their jails have been major bones of contention, according to residents and tribal figures. "Their repressive rule has turned many against them," said Abdul Latif al Okaidat, a tribal leader. The protests took a violent turn when angry mobs took to the streets and disrupted the routes of convoys of trucks loaded with oil from nearby fields that cross into government held areas. In some villages, SDF forces fired at angry protesters. "No to the theft of our oil!" chanted demonstrators in the town of Greinej, part of the Arab-Sunni tribal heartland seized over a year ago by the Pentagon-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and spearheaded by the Kurdish YPG militia. The YPG has long sold crude oil to the Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad, with whom it maintains close economic ties and exports wheat and other commodities through several crossings between their territory. The stepping up of oil sales to alleviate a fuel crunch facing Damascus has infuriated the local Arab protesters, with many placards saying they were being "robbed" of their wealth. "We are deprived of everything while the Kurds are selling our oil to help the regime and enriching themselves," said Abdullah Issa, a protester from al Tayaneh town. Syria's most productive fields are now in Kurdish hands since the YPG extended control over large swathes of north eastern Syria after capturing the city of Raqqa from Islamic State in late 2017. The Syrian government controls areas west of the Euphrates river that are less endowed with oil resources. Diplomats say Washington has also in recent weeks tightened efforts to clamp down on small shipments of oil by smuggler networks that are exported across the Euphrates river to traders working on behalf of the Syrian government. The SDF has not publicly commented on the most serious challenge so far to its rule over tens of thousands of Arabs. The YPG has sought to redress decades of repression against minority Kurds under Syria's Arab Ba'ath party. SDF commander in-chief Mazloum Kobani, in remarks that seem to refer to the unrest, said his group was the only "institution that had "steered away from any form of racism". The protests persisted after YPG commanders failed to make significant concessions to tribal figures who gathered at their invitation last Friday in the city of Ain Issa, two attendees said. Among the Arabs demands were ending forcible conscription, releasing detainees and stopping oil sales from their region to the Syrian government. The risks of wider confrontation were now growing, analysts say. "The protests are now more organized and wider with a higher ceiling and developing gradually to a popular uprising where people are asking to be ruled by themselves and ending Kurdish hegemony," said Feras Allawi, a political analyst from the area. "The response of SDF to the popular demands will dictate whether this leads to a more violent confrontation," he added. (Reporting by Suleiman Al-Khalidi, editing by G Crosse) New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio speaks at the 2019 American Israel Public Affairs Committee policy conference in March. (Photo: Jose Luis Magana/AP) The line between visionary and madman is a thin one. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has been walking on that delicate tightrope for months as he has flirted with launching a presidential campaign. The mayor has been saying he will make his final decision this month, but he has a slim chance of victory, and political observers and local officials are confused by his strategy. One of the citys top Democratic operatives echoed conventional wisdom when asked about a potential de Blasio presidential bid. I have no idea what the mayor is doing, the operative said. And I really don't think he does either. In this sea of doubters, de Blasios closest allies and advisers believe their man is a misunderstood hero. They argue his policy record is underappreciated and point to his history of underdog triumphs as signs that de Blasio could pull off a truly incredible upset. Peter Ragone, a longtime adviser and friend of de Blasios, cited the shocking 2013 victory that brought him to City Hall as proof the pundit class has the mayor wrong. "Every single time he has run for office he has been maligned by insiders and the media. And then what happens? He sweeps swaths of the electorate, Ragone said. Why is it he is always told he has no shot, yet he wins elections [by] landslides?" There are two dramatically different views of the mayors presidential ambitions. As de Blasio faces daunting poll numbers and a staff exodus, the critics see his fixation on the White House as either a means to a different end or the product of a politician with a dwindling team and drunk on hubris. But those in his inner circle see a true believer who has delivered on a sweeping progressive vision despite opposition from New Yorks political class, particularly its infamously aggressive press corps. In the minds of the mayor and his associates, he should not be counted out. As reports of an imminent de Blasio presidential announcement spread in recent days, Yahoo News spoke to over a dozen political leaders, experts and strategists in the Big Apple, including some who have worked for de Blasio. One word kept coming up in conversation after conversation about the mayors ambitions delusional. Story continues I think the city is mostly baffled by this. He's been an average mayor at best, the Democratic operative said. I think this is one of the most delusional people who have ever inhabited City Hall, and I seriously mean that, said Gerson Borrero, a political commentator who has spent decades as a regular on multiple New York television and radio stations. Nick Rizzo, a Democratic district leader in Brooklyn, said local politicos are scratching their heads trying to imagine de Blasios rationale. He still has smart people working for him, but he seems really disconnected from reality, Rizzo said of de Blasio. Indeed, De Blasios poll numbers are bleak and show its not just the citys political establishment thats not eager to see him launch a presidential campaign. A Quinnipiac University survey released last month showed de Blasio had an anemic 42 to 44 percent approval rating with over three-quarters of New Yorkers saying they didnt want the mayor to launch a White House bid. Outside of the Big Apple, de Blasios numbers are even worse. A CNN poll released late last month found de Blasio dead last in the crowded Democratic field with none of the partys registered voters or Democratic-leaning independents giving him their support. That same survey found just one percent of Democratic voters wanted to hear more about de Blasio. A Monmouth University poll from last month showed de Blasio near the back of the pack with just one percent of Democrats saying hed have their vote. In March, Monmouth conducted a poll that looked at voter opinion of the primary field and found de Blasio was the only name among 23 candidates or potential candidates who have been tested in Monmouths polling this year to earn a net negative rating among Democrats. Bill de Blasio with his his wife, Chirlane McCray, at an election-night victory gathering. (Photo: Julie Jacobson/AP) The unlikeliness of a de Blasio win has many in the city speculating that his presidential flirtation is a scheme designed to accomplish some other goal. One staffer for a top state official suggested that he may be angling for a position with the much more high-profile progressive candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. Another theory raised by multiple local operatives and a former confidant of the mayor is that de Blasio is trying to increase his profile to position his wife, Chirlane McCray, for a run for a congressional seat or the borough presidents office in Brooklyn once his term is through. But those who know de Blasio insist he would not be eyeing the presidential race for any ulterior motive. De Blasios early political career took off with stints as a strategist in New York including managing Hillary Clintons successful U.S. Senate campaign in 2000. De Blasio has long viewed himself as a savvy operator and relishes hitting the campaign trail. Hes a competitive guy. And if he decides to run, itll be because he actually thinks he can win, a former de Blasio adviser said. The world may not see a path to victory for de Blasio, but those who know him are certain he must believe he has a chance even if they dont understand his thinking. And whether or not they see what de Blasio sees, some who have worked with him say he should be taken seriously. I think you would be foolish to underestimate de Blasio, said Rebecca Katz, a former aide to the mayor and founder of New Deal Strategies. I dont see why he is running, but now that he is running, this is Bill de Blasio at his best, campaign Bill de Blasio. In many ways, de Blasios initial 2013 mayoral victory was a precursor to the progressive wave that reshaped Congress last year and has made Sanders one of the frontrunners for the Democratic nomination. De Blasio won after casting New York as a tale of two cities plagued by inequities he vowed to address. One former de Blasio staffer said the mayor may feel he belongs in the presidential race because of his work bringing progressive populism into the conversation. However, they also suggested the left wing of the Democratic Party has since moved beyond de Blasio. He was at a certain point the main person in the nation talking about income inequality. And he was right. Now Bernie and [Elizabeth] Warren are talking about the one percent, the former staffer said, adding, So, hes not the only one anymore. And, especially if youre a progressive, if youre a white man you better be bringing something special to the table. Hes not. There are better messengers than him. Bill de Blasio testifies during a joint legislative budget hearing on local government in Albany, N.Y., in February. (Photo: Hans Pennink/AP) As mayor, he has some signature achievements that his allies say shows he delivered on this pioneering progressive agenda. Most prominently, de Blasio established universal pre-kindergarten, a paid sick leave program for city workers, enacted a $15 dollar per hour minimum wage, and presided over a steady drop in the violent crime rate while curbing the New York City Police Departments controversial stop and frisk program. A city council member told Yahoo News they believed de Blasio could make an important contribution to the presidential race if the mayor throws his hat into the ring. Along with the aforementioned policies, the council member cited de Blasios expansion of affordable housing and after-school programs. Mayor de Blasio has done a good job when it came to investing in important areas for New Yorkers, especially those who are part of the working class, the council member said. While de Blasio has scored some notches on his progressive belt, some of his opponents point to persistent issues in New York to argue the mayor hasnt lived up to his promise to unite the two cities. Gerson Borrero, the political commentator, pointed to rising rents, the dismal state of the city subway system, and stark racial divides in the neighborhoods and public schools to question de Blasios progressive bonafides. As we say in Spanish, De la boca pa fuera, Borrero said, which roughly translates as from the mouth, out. He barks, but when he bites, its toothless. De Blasio and his allies acknowledge the sad state of the citys public transportation system, but say blame ultimately lies with Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who is in charge of the state transit authority that runs the citys subways. Borrero doesnt buy that and says de Blasio should have done more to challenge the governor. If these were things where he really did something or put up a fight he could run on them, Borrero said. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, center, and Bill de Blasio arrive for a news conference outside the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City. (Photo: Mark Lennihan/AP) But Ragone, the mayors friend and longtime adviser, believes de Blasio has a stellar record that has gone unnoticed due to unfair media coverage. "One of the reasons he's not viewed as a viable candidate is the national media has only seen terrible stories about the guy for six years, despite a pretty impressive record, he said. The national media and voters will make their decisions about his viability, but it's probably not going to be done through the lens of the New York City press corps, and I think that's going to be a different conversation. De Blasios contentious relationship with City Halls Room 9 press corps was highlighted when he was implicated in the death of a groundhog. In February 2014, a month after he took office, de Blasio went to the Staten Island Zoo to participate in the Groundhog Day ceremonies. Before the animal known as Staten Island Chuck made his annual meteorological prediction, de Blasio held up the rodent to the crowd. But the groundhog squirmed uncomfortably, and de Blasio dropped him on the ground as onlookers screamed. The New York Post later revealed that the rodent died a week later, and zoo officials went to great lengths to hide the death from the public. The conservative tabloid dramatically declared that the mayor has groundhog blood on his hands! Staten Island Chucks death was both covered extensively and mocked relentlessly on Twitter. The incident was one of a series of idiosyncratic moments in de Blasios tenure that became recurring themes in reporters coverage and social media posts, which included the time the mayor ate pizza with a fork, his penchant for running late and his habit of regularly making an over-11-mile round trip on weekdays to work out at a gym in his old Brooklyn neighborhood. Staten Island Chuck (Photo: Andrew Burton/Getty Images) But New Yorks muckrakers have also exposed serious issues with de Blasios administration. Investigations have questioned how much de Blasio really did to end stop and frisk, documented how much time he spends out of the office, exposed unflattering emails written by senior officials, detailed the firing of the citys top watchdog, and chronicled a bribery scandal involving one of the mayors donors. De Blasios frustration with the media has manifested itself in a tendency to hold fewer press conferences than his predecessor, Michael Bloomberg. Members of the press corps complain that he is inaccessible, and in some of the availabilities he has held, de Blasio has snipped at the assembled reporters. Private emails between de Blasio and top aides that were exposed due to a legal battle waged by the New York Post and local TV channel NY1 show the mayor fuming that the media is pitiful and biased against him. One former de Blasio consultant described the situation as toxic. Rebecca Katz, the mayors former aide, said de Blasios reluctance to engage the media hurt him. "The most maddening part of all this is that some really amazing stuff has happened and he's been unable to take credit for it. I think universal free school lunch is a huge achievement, but the Mayor didn't even go the press conference announcing it, Katz said. Every single kid in New York City can have free school lunch with no stigma, and that's because of the de Blasio administration. But does anyone know that?" The Democratic operative pointed out that the tension could have real consequences if de Blasio runs for president since Room 9 was home to many reporters who went on to national outlets. The Mayor has never done a good job of working with the press the past few years and the number of reporters who graduate from City Hall to cover national issues is going to do him no favors, the operative said of a potential presidential bid. This is a lot of baggage to carry into an already improbable campaign, and as he faces these challenges, de Blasio has something of a skeleton crew at his side. Many in the mayors orbit have clearly not been willing to come along for the 2020 ride even as multiple sources say de Blasio has put out feelers trying to get old staff members on board. Katz was a top aide to former Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev., before working on de Blasios 2013 mayoral campaign and joining his administration. She departed in 2015 and told Yahoo News she made the decision because it felt like the right time to leave on both a personal and professional level. De Blasios allies point to his stunning upset win in 2013 as evidence he shouldnt be counted out. However, that victory was accomplished with the help of topflight political operatives, almost all of whom have left the mayors team. Along with Katz, the staff that helped de Blasio get to City Hall included John Del Cecato, who made commercials for both of President Barack Obamas successful White House bids. Del Cecato crafted an ad that highlighted de Blasios interracial family and was a crucial part of his eventual win. De Blasios 2013 campaign also included Lis Smith. Since parting ways with de Blasio, Smith joined the team of another mayor, South Bend, Indianas Pete Buttigieg. Smith took Buttigieg exactly where de Blasio hopes to go from a longshot to a plausible 2020 presidential contender. Bill Hyers, another Obama veteran who has gone on to run his own consulting firm, managed de Blasios 2013 mayoral campaign. Del Cecato, Smith, and Hyers are all no longer working for de Blasio and did not respond to requests for comment on this story. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio testifies during a joint legislative budget hearing on local government Monday, Feb. 11, 2019, in Albany, N.Y. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink) One ex-de Blasio campaign aide suggested the number of departures is because the mayor is a grueling person to work for. They described de Blasio as extremely particular and suggested his tendency to get angry and fixated on minutiae might be a factor in the lack of interest his former staff has in joining a potential presidential campaign even though they might think he has important things to say in the race. If they dont think he has a chance to win, why would they go through it? the former aide asked. Its one thing to deal with that kind of personality when you can have an impact. Its another thing to endure it for a longshot campaign. And its not just the 2013 campaign team that wont be on board if de Blasio enters the presidential race. Emma Wolfe, de Blasios chief of staff, is almost universally well-regarded among New York City politicos and has been described as the mayors most trusted aide. According to multiple sources, Wolfe will not be joining de Blasios campaign team. Wolfe did not respond to a request for comment. The lack of participation from some of the mayors staffers has fueled the conventional wisdom among New Yorks political establishment that the potential campaign is a fools errand. One city council member told Yahoo News they asked a senior staffer from de Blasios administration why they werent working on his campaign team. Their response was just a blank stare, the council member said. Multiple top City Hall aides have left the administration entirely in de Blasios second term, which began in 2018. Mike Casca, who worked on Bernie Sanderss 2016 presidential campaign, went on to serve as de Blasios City Hall communications director. In April, Casca left the administration to work on Fairness PAC, de Blasios political operation. Casca seemed a natural fit to take a role on a presidential campaign if de Blasio decided to launch one, but he departed the PAC and administration last Friday amid reports the mayor was set to officially enter the race this week. Casca declined to comment on his reasons for leaving de Blasios team or his plans for the future. Ragone rejected the idea de Blasio has experienced unusual turnover. "It's year six of an administration. ... I've been there myself. People do leave. That to me is not that surprising, he said. But the exodus has unquestionably left de Blasio with a lean and relatively low-profile political staff as he eyes the White House. In an interview on the local channel NY1 Monday night, de Blasio addressed a spate of reports he planned to kick off a presidential campaign on Wednesday. The mayor said he is still deciding whether to run and will not make any announcement this week. As de Blasio weighs a formal bid for the White House, multiple sources told Yahoo News his political operation is being led by Jon Paul Lupo, a former official in his administration who left City Hall to join Fairness PAC. Prior to working for de Blasio, Lupo was chief of staff to former Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz. Before joining Markowitzs team in 2011, Lupo worked on House and Senate campaigns for Democrats Tim Johnson and Jim Webb. Sources also told Yahoo News that Jim Crounse, a longtime de Blasio ally who worked on the 2013 race and specializes in direct mail campaigns, will have a role on the mayors team if he pulls the trigger and enters the presidential race. Lupo, who declined to comment on the record, has a solid reputation in New York City political circles. Katz described him as a very smart and capable individual. But one local Democratic operative who knows Lupo and holds him in high esteem said they were nevertheless confused to see him taking a senior role in de Blasios campaign-in-waiting, given its lack of support. I really want to know whats up because hes smart. Hes like a legitimately smart guy, the operative said of Lupo, adding, So, I want to know whos blowing smoke up whose ass. Yet those who know de Blasio say the mayor hasnt made a final decision yet, and his choice clearly doesnt seem to be based on poll numbers or public perception. He has always been counted out, and he has always beaten expectations, the former adviser said of de Blasio. So hes listening to his heart and not his head. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: One student was killed and eight others were wounded when two shooters opened fire at a K-12 school outside Denver on Tuesday. The suspects, a juvenile female and an adult male, are in custody after the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch, a charter school in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said at a press conference Wednesday morning. Law enforcement authorities initially incorrectly identified the juvenile shooting suspect as male. The deceased student is an 18-year-old man who died at the school, authorities said. His immediate family has been notified, but his identity has not yet been released publicly. That student was going to graduate and would have been out of school in three days, Spurlock said. It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in todays #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the student is stating its an 18 year old male. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 8, 2019 Spurlock said that all the victims are 15 years old or older. By Wednesday morning, three of the victims were still in intensive care at hospitals in the area. The rest of the victims had been released. Tuesdays violence was just the latest mass shooting in the Denver suburbs. Highlands Ranch is a suburb of Denver, and the school is roughly 14 miles from the city center. The schools website says that about 1,800 students attend the school. The school is about eight miles from Columbine High School, where 12 students and one teacher were murdered on April 20, 1999. Several days before the 20th anniversary of the Columbine shooting, schools throughout the Denver area were closed after a young woman, who was said to be infatuated with the Columbine attack, threatened schools in the area. The woman later died by suicide. Story continues Ive got four kids in this school system, my wifes business is less than a mile from here, I grew up in these parts, 18th Judicial District Attorney George Brauchler said at Wednesdays press conference. And if you had suggested to anyone behind me or in this room that within 20 years and 20 miles, we would have dealt with Columbine, the Aurora theater, Arapahoe High School, the shooting of Zack Parrish and four other deputies, wed have thought you mad. And yet, here we are again. In addition to Columbine, Brauchler referenced the July 2012 shooting at a movie theater in Aurora, Colo. that left 12 dead and dozens wounded; the Dec. 13, 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School in which a heavily armed student fatally wounded a classmate before taking his own life; and the Dec. 31, 2018 killing of Douglas County Deputy Zack Parrish in an ambush that resulted in four deputies and two bystanders being wounded. In addition, there was a November 2017 shooting at a Walmart in Thornton, Colo. in which a gunman walked into the store and killed three customers. At STEM Academy, the two shooters entered through the middle school entrance, where there are no metal detectors, and walked deep inside the school and started attacking students at around 2 p.m., Spurlock said. People in the school almost immediately called 911, and police arrived at the school about two minutes later. Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said that police were on the scene almost immediately because there is a police substation a block from the school. She said that police could hear gunshots as they entered the school. Students escorted on school bus in front of STEM School Highlands Ranch after a shooting. May 7, 2019. | Hyoung Chang/MediaNews Group/TheDenver Post via Getty Images The school does not have a school resource officer, but has one armed security guard hired from a private company. Spurlock said one of the suspects was restrained by the time the deputies came into contact with them. The suspects were taken into custody without any exchange of gunfire with authorities. Spurlock said two handguns were used in the shooting, but did not release more details about the weapons that were used or how they were obtained. Spurlock also declined to answer questions about a potential motive in the shooting. #stemshooting 7 possibly 8 students have been injured. Two shooters in custody. SWAT still clearing school. Students being bused to Northridge Rec Center. Parents please have patience with reunification process. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 7, 2019 Nicholson-Kluth said that crimes like this are uncommon in Highlands Ranch. This is a good community. Its usually very quiet. Low crime rate. So this is unusual for us, said Nicholson-Kluth. STEM school incident: still getting info, believe 2 injured. Please find other routes. Media staging now on south side of AMC! DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 7, 2019 #stemshooting, at 1:53 pm responded to STEM school off Ridgeline Blvd in HR on call of shots fired in school, first update, 2 injured, deputies in process of identifying and locating shooter(s). Still active and unstable scene. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 7, 2019 Jennifer Brown, a reporter from the Colorado Sun, tweeted a picture taken at the crowded parent reunification center. Scene at Northridge, parent reunification center. They will call out last names by group as kids arrive. #stemshooting pic.twitter.com/tOBLcXHS3A Jennifer Brown (@JenBrownColo) May 7, 2019 The White House released a statement about the shooting on Tuesday night. Our prayers are with the victims, family members, and all those affected by todays shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Littleton, Colorado, the statement said. Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence. The White House has been in communication with state and local officials, and the President has been briefed and continues to monitor the ongoing situation. We offer our full support to local law enforcement and first responders and thank them for their heroism. LOUISVILLE, Ky. The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission didnt take long to deny the appeal of Maximum Securitys disqualification as Kentucky Derby winner for interference, saying hours after it was filed Monday that the stewards decision is not subject to appeal. The commissions letter to attorney D. Barry Stilz, who filed the appeal of behalf of owners Gary and Mary West, also denied a request to stay the disqualification ruling pending appeal. West said he was disappointed by the KHRC decision, but added the matter is not settled. Based on everything that has happened so far, Im not surprised, West told The Associated Press in a phone interview after the appeal was denied. Well file suit in whatever the appropriate court is. I dont know the answer to that, but the lawyers that I have retained will know what the appropriate venue is. Racing stewards disqualified Maximum Security after Saturdays Kentucky Derby and elevated Country House to the winners circle following objections filed by two jockeys. Stewards determined Maximum Security impeded the paths of several horses in the race. Maximum Security is the first Derby winner disqualified for interference in the races 145-year history. The KHRCs decision can after Wests legal team filed the appeal to the commission based in Lexington, Kentucky. The owner has acknowledged that the legal proceedings could take months, if not years, down the road. The only other Derby disqualification was in 1968, and long after the race. First-place finisher Dancers Image tested positive for a prohibited medication, and Kentucky racing officials ordered the purse money to be redistributed. Forward Pass got the winners share. A subsequent court challenge upheld the stewards decision. West also has said he would not run Maximum Security in the May 18 Preakness in Baltimore. Acknowledging the horses removal from Triple Crown consideration because of the disqualification, the owner said there is really no need to run a horse back in two weeks. North Korean military fires multiple short-range missiles in this photo North Korea's state media KCNA released on May 5. Yonhap The deputy nuclear envoys of South Korea and Russia have shared the view on the need to keep the momentum for dialogue with North Korea going, Seoul's foreign ministry said Wednesday, despite tensions caused by Pyongyang's recent launch of short-range projectiles. Jeong Yeon-doo, the ministry's director-general of the North Korean Nuclear Affairs Bureau, held talks with his Russian counterpart Oleg Burmistrov, ambassador-at-large, in Moscow on Tuesday to discuss cooperation over the ongoing Korea peace process. Their talks came after the North fired a volley of short-range projectiles into the East Sea on Saturday in an apparent show of growing frustration over its stalled nuclear negotiations with the United States. "The two sides reaffirmed the shared goal of the complete denuclearization and the establishment of an enduring peace on the Korean Peninsula," the ministry said in a press release. By Elizabeth Dilts and Rozanna Latiff (Reuters) - Former Goldman Sachs Group Inc banker Roger Ng pleaded not guilty to criminal charges linked to a multibillion-dollar scandal at the Malaysian state investment fund 1MDB in an appearance at federal court in New York on Monday. The U.S. Department of Justice accused 46-year-old Ng last year of conspiring to launder money and bribe government officials in Malaysia and Abu Dhabi through bond offerings that Goldman Sachs handled. He was extradited on May 3 to New York from Kuala Lumpur, where he had been jailed since November. U.S. Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo, of U.S. District Court in Brooklyn, New York, allowed Ng, a Malaysian citizen, to be released in exchange for a $20 million bond. He was fitted for an ankle bracelet, and will be staying at an undisclosed location in the New York City area that the court approved. His lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, said he convinced Ng to "come to the U.S. and face the music" because it was evident that prosecutors were not going to drop the case, and his client had become very ill. Ng appears to have lost weight, based on photos of him before his arrest. "He was in a very difficult situation," Agnifilo told reporters. Being detained in New York "is better than a Malaysian jail," he added. Ng, who left Goldman Sachs in 2014, faces up to 30 years in prison if he is convicted of the three charges against him in the United States, based on alleged violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Prosecutors and Ng's lawyer are trying to negotiate a plea bargain. Government lawyers said they hope to avoid a trial by reaching a deal, though Agnifilo said it was too early to tell. Malaysia's home minister wanted Ng to face criminal charges there first, but agreed to temporarily surrender him to the United States for 10 months, Malaysia's attorney general, Tommy Thomas, said in a statement. "The period of temporary surrender may be extended upon mutual agreement by Malaysia and the U.S.," Thomas added. Story continues The 1MDB case has shaken Goldman Sachs, which is also being probed by the Justice Department for its role as underwriter and arranger for some $6.5 billion worth of 1MDB bond offerings. Prosecutors estimate that high-level 1MDB fund officials and their associates misappropriated $4.5 billion between 2009 and 2014, including some of the funds that Goldman Sachs helped raise. Goldman Sachs has consistently denied wrongdoing and said certain members of the former Malaysian government and 1MDB lied to it about how the bond proceeds would be used. Ng was charged in Kuala Lumpur with four counts of abetting the bank to provide misleading statements in the offering prospectus for 1MDB bond sales. Tim Leissner, another former Goldman Sachs banker, and Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho have also been charged in the United States over 1MDB. Leissner has pleaded guilty. In a statement, Low's spokesman Paul Caminiti criticized the Malaysian government for "inhumane prison conditions" and called its motivation with the United States politically motivated. Low, whose whereabouts are unknown, has consistently denied wrongdoing through spokesmen. Malaysia has said it was seeking up to $7.5 billion in reparations from Goldman over its dealings with 1MDB, set up in 2009 by then-Prime Minister Najib Razak. Najib, who lost a general election last year, is facing 42 criminal charges related to losses at 1MDB and other state entities. He has pleaded not guilty. (Reporting by Elizabeth Dilts in Brooklyn, New York, and Rozanna Latiff in Kuala Lumpur; writing by Lauren Tara LaCapra; editing by Phil Berlowitz and Leslie Adler) WASHINGTONSen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., teamed up with Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) on Wednesday to announce the CARE Act, a $100 billion plan to fight the opioid crisis. Warren, who is running for president, framed the proposal as part of her larger push for a more fair economy in a blog post announcing the move. The ongoing opioid crisis is about health care. But its about more than that. Its about money and power in America who has it, and who doesnt. And its about who faces accountability in America and who doesnt, Warren wrote. If the CARE Act becomes law, every single person would get the care they need. We should pass it not in two years, not after the 2020 elections but immediately. Warren described opiates as a national public health crisis of great magnitude like the HIV/AIDS epidemic that emerged in the late 1980s. The CARE Act was modeled after legislation Congress passed in 1990 to fight AIDS. Sen. Elizabeth Warren last Friday in Ames, Iowa. (Photo: Charlie Neibergall/AP) Resources would be used to support the whole continuum of care, from early intervention for those at risk for addiction, to harm reduction for those struggling with addiction, to long-term support services for those in recovery, Warren wrote. The CARE Act would provide $100 billion in federal funding over the next decade, with $2.7 billion annually for what Warren described as the hardest hit counties and cities, including those with the highest rates of overdoses. It would also give $500 million each year to expand access to naloxone, a life-saving drug that is used to treat opiate overdoses. Warren and Cummings produced a detailed breakdown of how much money would go to each state. Warren has distinguished herself in the crowded field of Democratic presidential candidates by releasing over 20 detailed policy proposals. Most of her plans are focused on addressing structural inequities. In her blog post she suggested the CARE Act could be funded by another one of her policies, the Ultra-Millionaire Tax, which would apply to the top .1 percent of Americans. Story continues U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee Michael Dunavant discusses charges of illegally distributing opioids against more than 30 medical professionals. (Photo: Adrian Sainz/AP) Heres how it works. If you have more than $50 million, were going to ask you to pay a tax of two cents per dollar on every dollar after your fifty-millionth and first, Warren wrote. It raises $2.75 trillion over the next ten years enough to pay for my plans to cancel student loan debt and provide universal free college, fully fund universal childcare, and end the opioid epidemic. And guess what wed still have nearly a trillion dollars left over. Warren also took aim at the Sackler family, a pharmaceutical dynasty who owned Purdue Pharma, the company behind the rise of Oxycontin. The Sacklers and Purdue have been implicated in schemes to minimize the addictive nature of the drug even as they promoted it. This crisis has been driven by greed, pure and simple. If you dont believe that, just look at the Sackler family, Warren wrote, adding, Theyre billionaires. They own mansions around the world. Entire wings of museums in New York and London have been stamped with the family name. But heres the thing: The Sacklers made their money pushing OxyContin. Sen. Warren in Lebanon, N.H., last month. (Photo: Cheryl Senter/AP) According to her campaign, Warren is set to discuss her opioid policy on Friday in West Virginia, one of the states that has been hit hardest by the crisis. Warren also plans to discuss the proposal at events in Ohio on Friday and Saturday. The opioid epidemic teaches us that too often in America today, if you have money and power, you can take advantage of everyone else without consequence. I think its time to change that, Warren wrote. Under my opioid plan, billionaires like the Sacklers wouldnt get to live the high life while only 1 out of 5 folks who need opioid treatment get the help they need. Instead, they would pay up. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: By Alvaro Murillo SAN JOSE (Reuters) - The European Union-backed International Contact Group on Venezuela said on Tuesday it could send a political mission to Caracas to pursue a solution to the country's ongoing crisis, reiterating its call for fresh elections. Speaking after a third meeting of the group in the Costa Rican capital San Jose, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said there should be no military intervention in Venezuela and urged all sides to avoid escalating tensions. "The only way to unblock a stalemate - in which the country clearly is - is to find a democratic, peaceful political way forward that can be inclusive and that can respect the will of the Venezuelan people," Mogherini told a news conference. A stand-off between Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition intensified in January when Juan Guaido, leader of the National Assembly, invoked Venezuela's constitution to assume the interim presidency, arguing that Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. Guaido, who Maduro dismisses as a U.S. puppet trying to foment a coup, has won the backing of a number of Western powers. Mogherini said free and fair elections should be held to break the impasse. To encourage a resolution, she added, the contact group "is ready to undertake a mission at the political level in Caracas." "There are a set of concrete options we have worked upon," she said, declining to provide further details. The group's members, consisting of about a dozen countries from Europe and Latin America, and international governmental organizations, agreed to meet again soon to assess progress and the next steps, she said. In addition, the group had accepted an invitation to meet with the Lima Group, a mostly Latin American set of nations also seeking an end to the crisis in Venezuela, Mogherini said. The contact group formed in January, aiming to help create the conditions for Venezuela to emerge from the crisis. (Reporting by Alvaro Murillo; Writing by Daina Beth Solomon; Editing by Dave Graham and Rosalba O'Brien) Eat This, Not That! The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has surged worldwide in record timeit was only three weeks ago that the first case was identified in South Africa. Last week, it accounted for 73% of new COVID infections in the United States, according to the latest CDC data. It's highly contagiousscientists estimate it's twice as transmissible as the Delta variant, which itself was twice as transmissible as the original COIVD strainwhich calls for an abundance of caution. How do you know if you've been infect Iran announced Wednesday that it is scaling back its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal and will begin enriching uranium at a higher level if the five world powers remaining in the agreement fail to shield it from U.S. sanctions. Speaking on the one year anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement, president Hassan Rouhani announced that the country would begin stockpiling enriched uranium rather than selling it abroad, since such sales are prohibited under U.S. sanctions. Rouhani gave the countries remaining in the deal France, Germany, Russia, China and the UK 60 days to establish a strategy to navigate around stringent U.S. banking and trade sanctions. If they fail to meet the deadline, Rouhani threatened to begin enriching uranium at levels currently prohibited under the agreement. After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that US has made impossible to continue, Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif tweeted. We do not want to leave the agreement. All the people of the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA; it is a new step within the framework of the JCPOA, President Rouhani said, referring to the nuclear agreement known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. Frances defense minister, during an interview with French media, encouraged Iran to remain in the deal and predicted the nation could face more sanctions if it chose to withdraw. Today nothing would be worse than Iran, itself, leaving this agreement, Florence Parly told BFM TV. China and Russia, meanwhile, blamed Irans hostility on the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement, which was originally spearheaded by then-vice president Joe Biden. The announcement comes after national security adviser John Bolton announced Sunday night that the U.S. dispatched a carrier strike group to the Middle East in response to specific and credible reports that suggested Iranian and proxy forces were preparing to attack U.S. forces in the region. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unplanned trip to Iraq Tuesday to reassure allied forces amid escalating tensions with Iran. More from National Review The tip came in from Israeli intelligence: Iran was preparing to attack U.S. or allied forces in Iraq and Syria. U.S. military commanders responded by rushing a flotilla of American warships and bombers to the Persian Gulf enough firepower to do lasting retaliatory damage. But the Americans wanted to ensure that Tehrans leaders knew just what was headed their way. We wanted that message delivered in the loudest volume possible, a U.S. defense official told TIME on the condition of anonymity. The Iranian regime needed to hear it loud and clear. The solution? Have John Bolton deliver it. In a May 5 statement, the National Security Advisor announced that, Any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force. The deployment of the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln and bomber jets, Bolton said, was intended to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime. Said Bolton: The United States is not seeking war with the Iranian regime, but we are fully prepared to respond to any attack. It was a message as subtle as an aircraft carrier, and one that his more staid predecessors might not have been the first pick to deliver. Traditionally, the national security advisor has worked more behind the scenes, an eminence grise whose influence could often be seen only indirectly. The job has historically been to play an honest broker for the president on the toughest strategic decisions of the day, resolving internal policy disputes and providing a menu of options when needed. But Bolton has taken to it with the flair of the cable TV pundit that he used to be, relishing his ability to keep the Americas adversaries off-balance with aggressive public statements advocating his own stances on the issues. A conservative insider who joined the White House in April 2018, Bolton has overtly and covertly hijacked the Washington news cycles with his hawkish views. Last June, for instance, he enraged North Korean leadership by suggesting the regime should follow the Libya model of nuclear disarmament. Bolton, no advocate of diplomatic detente with Pyongyang, was sure to know that Kim Jong Un wouldnt want the same fate that befell Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, who was toppled with Western backing and executed less than eight years after agreeing to abandon his nuclear program. Story continues During a January press briefing on Venezuela, Bolton held a notepad on his chest visible to cameras, which said 5,000 troops to Colombia, presumably in his own handwriting. The message deliberately exposed or not pinballed around Washington and provoked speculation about pre-positioning American forces inside Colombia for a rapid deployment in neighboring Venezuela, if called upon. National security adviser John Bolton during a White House press briefing in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 28, 2019. | David ButowRedux for TIME Bolton has long advocated toppling Iranian leadership. In 2015, Bolton argued in the New York Times that only military action could thwart Irans nuclear ambitions. A strike, he wrote, can still succeed. The White House does not espouse that policy openly. But regional experts inside and outside the Trump Administration suspect regime change is the ultimate goal of the Presidents sweeping economic sanctions on Tehran. Officials in the U.S. intelligence community and the State and Defense departments say they are increasingly worried that Boltons escalating maximum pressure campaign against Iran is in part an attempt to provoke a military or cyber response from Tehran that would enable the national security advisor to tell a reluctant Trump that a military response, cyber attack, or both was necessary. Boltons announcement Sunday accelerated the deployment of the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln and adjoining ships and was prompted in part by a series of Israeli warnings, none of which has been confirmed by U.S. intelligence, that Iran has been preparing to strike the U.S. or its allies in the Persian Gulf. Boltons Israeli counterpart, Meir Ben Shabbat passed the warnings to Bolton and other U.S. officials two weeks ago. The warnings were first reported on Monday by Israels Channel 13 news and were confirmed to TIME by two U.S. officials, one of whom called the Israeli scenario vague and lacking specifics about any Iranian planning, weapons or targeting. The military, however, didnt need convincing. Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, commander of all U.S. forces in the Middle East, asked for the arrival of the warships to be expedited after seeing the intelligence assessments, the U.S. officials tell TIME. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan signed off on the request on Sunday, they say. The ships are now set to arrive from the Mediterranean by the middle of the month, more than a week earlier than planned. Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, requested the White House issue an announcement a rare appeal the officials say. The White House decided the most suitable person to deliver the message was Bolton. The message needed to come from someone with a strong foreign policy voice, says Anthony Cordesman, a former intelligence official at the Pentagon who now works at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The situation with Iran is becoming increasingly unpredictable. Its not clear what combination of sanctions and other pressure will result in an aggressive counter-move. Even before Trump took office, the U.S. was responding to Irans regional expansion with military, intelligence and diplomatic countermeasures. Trumps decision in May 2018 to walk away from the nuclear deal accelerated the confrontation. And Trumps campaign for maximum economic and diplomatic pressure ratchets up the tension with each additional new sanction that has triggered an exodus of foreign investment and driven oil exports down. The Administration last month designated the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), an arm of the nations military, as a terrorist organization, which restricts members banking transactions and ability to travel. It marked the first time the U.S. designated an arm of a nations government as a terrorist group. It was a controversial decision. Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo backed it, but senior military commanders and intelligence officials opposed the move out of fears that Iran would take reciprocal action against U.S. forces. And in a matter of days, the Iranian government declared all U.S. troops in the Middle East terrorists. The move made a potential target out of each U.S. soldier deployed across the Middle East. Tehran is now involved in every single serious conflict in the region, almost always on the side of Americas enemies. The U.S. military has thus far avoided direct confrontation with Iranian forces even when small Iranian boats and drones routinely pestered American naval ships at sea. But Israel and some Gulf nations have pressured the White House to address what they see as a growing Iranian sphere of influence across the Middle East with the IRGC continuing its support for allied militant groups in Iraq, Lebanon and Syria. Tehran is also said to have increased funding for Shiite insurgents opposing American allies in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Yemen, U.S. officials say. The nation has also has continued to develop ballistic missile technology in defiance of the United Nations a topic that Bolton has often highlighted. Bolton has been itching for a fight with Iran for years now, said Ali Vaez, the Iran project director at the International Crisis Group. He is hoping that U.S. belligerence will push Iran to commit a mistake that could be used as casus belli to bloody Irans nose and cut it down to size. Washington (AFP) - French jockey Flavien Prat says he is still "over the moon" after winning the Kentucky Derby even if his triumph was the result of a controversial disqualification. "It's the race that everybody dreams of winning," Plat said in an interview with AFP two days after riding 65/1 longshot Country House to victory. "It's like winning the Arc, but even better," he said in a reference to the storied Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, France's premier horse race. Country House was awarded the victory in Saturday's "Run for the Roses" in Louisville, Kentucky, after favorite Maximum Security was disqualified following an agonizing 20-minute stewards inquiry. The three stewards unanimously determined that Maximum Security had drifted into the path of other horses during the final turn and declared second-placed Country House the winner. The inquiry came after Prat and the rider of another horse, Long Range Toddy, lodged objections with the stewards. The decision to disqualify Maximum Security was a controversial one and President Donald Trump was among those who tweeted their criticism. "The Kentucky Derby decision was not a good one," Trump said. "It was a rough & tumble race on a wet and sloppy track. "The best horse did NOT win the Kentucky Derby - not even close!" Respected horse racing writer Andy Beyer agreed in a piece for The Washington Post. "Yes, there was a foul," Beyer wrote. "No, it didn't merit a historic disqualification." The disqualification was just the second in the 145-year history of the race, the first leg in the Triple Crown of US horse racing which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont. The only other time a Kentucky Derby result was overturned was in 1968 when Dancer's Image was disqualified several days after the race because of a prohibited medication. Derek Lawson, Prat's agent, said the jockey had been the target of fierce criticism by some people on social media. Story continues "He was called a crybaby," Lawson said. "But there were two objections," he noted. - 'Still have a lot to prove' - Prat, for his part, said he was just excited to be only the second Frenchman ever to win the top US horse race. Jean Cruguet won the Kentucky Derby aboard Seattle Slew in 1977 and went on to win the Triple Crown. "There will be other races to win and I still have a lot to prove," Prat said. "He's a phenomenon, this kid," said Lawson. "When you look at what he's achieved and he is only 26." Born on August 4, 1992 in Melun, France, Prat has horse racing in his blood. His father, Frederic, trains harness racing horses but Prat said he always preferred flat racing and was "obsessed" with becoming a jockey from a young age. He began coming to the United States at age 17 to ride in the winter racing season in California and moved there for good in 2015. He suffered a severe accident that year, breaking several bones, and was out of action for several months. Prat went to his first Kentucky Derby the next year -- as a spectator. "I'd never seen anything like it, so many people, the excitement, the whole American show," he said. Prat, unfortunately, will not be able to emulate the Triple Crown feat of his countryman Cruguet. Country House's trainer, Bill Mott, told the Daily Racing Form on Tuesday that the horse had developed a cough and would not run in the Preakness on May 18. Lawson told AFP that although Country Horse will not be entered Prat may still be able to saddle up for the Preakness on another horse. By Ahmed Elumami and Sybille de La Hamaide TRIPOLI/PARIS (Reuters) - France's President Emmanuel Macron called on Wednesday for a ceasefire in the month-long battle for Libya's capital Tripoli after fighting hit a migrant detention center overnight. With foreign powers aghast at the latest flare-up in a nation that has been in chaos since the 2011 toppling of Muammar Gaddafi, Macron met the internationally-recognized Libyan Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj in Paris. "Noting that there is no military solution to the Libyan conflict ... the proposal was put forward to delimit a ceasefire line, under international supervision," Macron's office said in a statement afterwards, backing a U.N. peace plan and elections. France has in the past been supportive of eastern Libyan forces commander Khalifa Haftar, who launched an assault on Serraj's Tripoli base in early April under the banner of combating terrorism and restoring order. With Haftar's troops bogged down in southern outskirts, fighting has been raging through the night but slowing in the day as the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan began this week. Overnight, there was shelling on a camp of pro-Serraj fighters, witnesses said. Shrapnel struck the roof of a nearby migrants' detention center in the eastern suburb of Tajoura. Two people were injured by the strike near the detention facility holding 500 migrants and refugees, the U.N. refugee agency UNHCR said in a statement. It appealed for the release of 3,460 foreign detainees caught near the fighting. Frightened migrants, who had come mainly from sub-Saharan African nations hoping to reach Europe by sea, pleaded for rescue. "We have almost lost hope in our life," one migrant at the center told Reuters, declining to give his name. "War here is too much. Please, we need help." HUNDREDS DEAD AND INJURED The Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) charity said a hole was blown open in a hangar housing women, nearly hitting one infant. "How many more lives must be threatened before these vulnerable people are evacuated?" The fighting has killed 443 people and injured another 2,110, with 60,000 forced to flee their homes, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Showing the challenge of finding a political solution even if a ceasefire can be reached, Serraj told TV channel France24 that Haftar was attempting a power grab. "Haftar and (his armed groups) only want to control power in Tripoli under the pretext of war on terrorism and militias," he said, urging a "clearer stance" from Paris toward Haftar. The conflict has threatened to disrupt OPEC member Libya's oil shipments, fuel migration to Europe, and encourage jihadists to exploit the power vacuum as the administrations in east and west face off. It has also frozen the U.N. peace plan and exposed divisions in Europe and the Gulf. Haftar, a former general in Gaddafi's army who later turned against him, enjoys the backing of the United Arab Emirates and Egypt. He also received military support from France which helped him take over the eastern city of Benghazi in 2017. Serraj, whose supporters say Haftar is a would-be dictator in the same mould as Gaddafi, met Macron after visiting Germany and Italy. The U.N. mission in Libya said it was deeply concerned about a sharp increase in kidnappings and arbitrary arrests during the Tripoli conflict, including the abduction of two Libyan TV journalists on May 2 whose fate remained unknown. (Additional reporting by Tom Miles and Stephanie Nebehay in Geneva; Writing by Ulf Laessing; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Catherine Evans) MILAN (AP) After last year's start in Israel and British cyclist Chris Froome's victory in Rome, this year's Giro d'Italia is likely to be a far more Italian affair. And, with only two previous champions competing, one of the most open races in recent history. Froome has decided to focus on winning a fifth Tour de France title rather than defend his Giro crown. Vincenzo Nibali is back, though, after the 2013 and 2016 winner decided to skip his home Grand Tour last year. Dutch cyclist Tom Dumoulin, who won the race in 2017 and finished runner-up last year, is also looking for another victory. The 102nd edition of the race runs from May 11-June 2 and consists of 21 days of racing, totaling 3,518.5 kilometers (2,186.4 miles) between the start in Bologna and the finish in Verona. Here are some key things to know about the race: MAIN CONTENDERS Nibali is looking to become the oldest Giro winner as he will be 34 years, 200 days when the race concludes in Verona. The current oldest winner is Fiorenzo Magni, who was 34 years, 180 days when he won the 1955 Giro. Nibali, who has also won the Tour and the Spanish Vuelta, has finished on the podium each of the previous five times he has competed in the Giro and Bahrain-Merida general manager Brent Copeland has warned rivals he is in great form. "We have worked hard to get to the start of this Giro with the best possible team," Copeland said. "Vincenzo has worked tremendously hard to the buildup of this race and his physical condition is at one of the best I have seen in years before a Grand Tour." Nibali's main rivals include Dumoulin, Colombian climber Miguel Angel Lopez, Mikel Landa of Spain, the in-form Slovenian Primoz Roglic and Britain's reigning Vuelta champion Simon Yates, who led the race for 13 days last year. Another pre-race favorite, Colombian cyclist Egan Bernal, had to pull out after breaking his collarbone in a training accident last week. Story continues World champion Alejandro Valverde and Fabio Aru are also out with injury. MOUNTAIN DRAMA The Giro features three individual time trials and seven mountain finishes in a testing route which features the toughest climbs during the second half to the race. In total the riders will have to climb 46,500 meters of elevation, in what organizers have called "one of the hardest courses in recent years." There is just one stage suitable for sprinters in the final week and three high difficulty stages. The final week starts with a bang as stage 16 is a long, testing Alpine leg of 226 kilometers with 5,700 meters of climbing. The riders will face the Presolana Pass, the Croce di Salven Pass, the Gavia Pass the highest point of this edition and the Mortirolo Pass from the hardest side of Mazzo di Valtellina. That is one of the toughest days of this year's race along with the 14th stage, which is a short but intense leg, with 4,000 meters of climbing packed into 131 kilometers from Saint Vincent to Courmayeur. There are four steep climbs in quick succession before the final ascent up to the foot of the Monte Bianco Skyway. That comes before the race's longest leg: 237 kilometers from Ivrea to Como ITALIAN STYLE This year's Giro will stay almost entirely in Italy. The race will cross into another country just once and briefly at that as it visits the republic of San Marino for the uphill finish of the ninth-stage time trial. The 34.8-kilometer leg could mark the start of the real battle for overall victory and every second lost will be tough to pull back as the race heads into the mountains. That day is also the race's "wine stage" as it celebrates the red Sangiovese wines of the area. A number of important social and cultural references will be made over the course. Stage seven finishes in L'Aquila, where the Giro will commemorate 10 years since the earthquake that devastated the city and its surroundings in 2009. The Giro will also remember people that have impacted Italy's history. The third stage will start from the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, 500 years after his death. Stage eight finishes in Pesaro, the birthplace of the composer Gioacchino Rossini. ___ More AP sports: https://apnews.com/apf-sports and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports Two Russian military aircraft violated South Korea's air defense identification zone (KADIZ) last week, prompting the Air Force to scramble fighter jets in response, a military source here said Wednesday. The Tupolev Tu-142s, Russia's maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft, entered the KADIZ without prior notice from the south of South Korea's southern island of Jeju on Friday, according to the source. The Air Force, in response, deployed multiple jets, including F-15Ks, to track them and send warning messages in accordance with the military's operation manuals, he added. "In communication with our side, they clearly defined their purpose of flight," the source said, adding no additional measures were taken over the matter. How many times they entered the KADIZ and how long the aircraft stayed was not immediately known. Observers said they were presumed to have taken part in the Sino-Russian naval drills, or Maritime Cooperation 2019, which were held near China's port city of Qingdao from April 29-May 1. The latest such case by Russian planes took place in July last year when two Russian warplanes violated the KADIZ four times in a single day. Seoul's defense ministry called in a Russian military envoy and lodged a strong protest. An air defense identification zone, or ADIZ, is an area of the skies declared by a state for the early identification and location of foreign planes approaching its territorial airspace to prevent infiltration by foreign planes and accidental clashes. It is not defined in any international law or treaty. (Yonhap) Washington (AFP) - Rideshare drivers in major US cities were set to strike Wednesday, casting a shadow over the keenly anticipated Wall Street debut of sector leader Uber. Organizers in some cities were calling for a 24-hour stoppage while the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, which represents both app and traditional taxi drivers, called on drivers to shut down all apps between 7.00 am (1100 GMT) and 9.00 am. The organizers called on drivers for Uber, Lyft, Via and other ride-hailing platforms to stop working as part of the protest. It was unclear how many drivers would take part in the work stoppage amid strike calls in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Boston and the US capital city Washington. A similar action was expected in London, according to US organizers. The app drivers are seeking improved job security including an end to arbitrary "deactivations," and a better revenue split between the drivers and platforms. In New York, the alliance was expecting most of its 10,000 app drivers to participate in the stoppage as well as some non-members. "Wall Street investors are telling Uber and Lyft to cut down on driver income, stop incentives, and go faster to driverless cars," Bhairavi Desai, executive director of the New York association, said in a statement. "Uber and Lyft wrote in their (regulatory) filings that they think they pay drivers too much already. With the IPO, Uber's corporate owners are set to make billions, all while drivers are left in poverty and go bankrupt." - IPO in the wings - Uber is set to launch its initial public offering (IPO) this week at an estimated valuation of some $90 billion, including its options and restricted stock unit. The launch will be a major milestone for the company which has raised billions and disrupted the taxi industry in hundreds of cities around the world. The move follows a troubled market debut for Uber's largest US rival Lyft, which has lost more than 15 percent of its value since its March IPO. Story continues The strike highlights the dilemma for rideshare firms which have faced challenges from regulators and traditional taxi operators, for using a business model relying on independent contractors. Daniel Ives, an analyst at Wedbush Securities, said Uber's rideshare "take rate" increased slightly to 21.7 percent in 2018 but that this will remain a hot point of contention for Uber. "We do see added risk from Uber aiming to take greater share of the fare from drivers and expect that the more Uber pushes here, the more drivers will fight back and protest, increasing the likelihood of regulations (particularly at the state level in the US and in Europe) of minimum wage guarantees," Ives said in a research note. Uber said in a statement: "Drivers are at the heart of our service -- we can't succeed without them -- and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road." Lyft drivers' hourly earnings have increased over the past two years and surpassed $10 billion, the company said in a statement. "Over 75 percent drive less than 10 hours a week to supplement their existing jobs," Lyft said. "On average, Lyft drivers earn over $20 per hour." Both Lyft and Uber set aside some of their shares for drivers as part of their offerings. The latest U.S. tariffs on China could be a sign of what's to come for Europe, analysts have told CNBC. President Donald Trump announced Sunday that the current tariffs of 10% on $200 billion of Chinese goods will increase to 25% on Friday. In a Twitter post, he also threatened to impose an extra 25% levies on an additional $325 billion of Chinese goods "shortly". His decision sparked a sell-off in global equity markets and created further jitters in Europe whose exports could also face similar U.S. tariffs. "It is a harbinger of what is likely to come for Europe," Fredrik Erixon, head of the European Centre for International Political Economy (ECIPE), told CNBC via email. "Trump may be an economic illiterate, but he means what he says, and the message that has been coming for quite a while is that European auto producers will be hit with higher tariffs as well," Erixon added. President Trump threatened in early 2018 to impose duties of 20% on European cars. Since then, he has met the president of the European Commission, the EU's executive body, and both decided to seek an agreement over trade and avoid tariffs. Nearly a year since their meeting, both sides of the Atlantic have yet to start those official trade talks. On Monday, European auto stocks fell more than 3%. "On the one hand, this (tariff announcement on China) just confirms what we already know, which is that President Trump is willing to publically escalate conflicts to achieve policy objectives. So, we may also see volatility in the settling of European trade negotiations," Mark Haefele, chief investment officer at UBS Global Wealth Management, told CNBC via email. The 28 European countries have agreed on a common position to negotiate a trade deal with the U.S. However, the White House and the European Commission have yet to announce a date for when they will have the first round of talks. "The latest Trump statement shows that also in the negotiations with the EU, the EU should be prepared to face maximum pressure from the U.S. until the very last minute. Expect the threat of tariffs on European automotive stocks emerge again very quickly," Carsten Brzeski, economist at ING, told CNBC via email. Story continues Uri Dadush, a Washington-based scholar for the think tank Bruegel, also said the EU will face a very complicated situation. "No-one wants to negotiate with a knife at their throat or be faced with last minute surprises. For the EU, an assembly of proud democracies with varied interests, it is likely to be even more difficult than for the Chinese, who have a single party state and are led by a pragmatist," he said. The need for a strong US economy "On the other hand, what has also not changed is that President Trump will continue to need a strong U.S. economy as we move towards the U.S. electionthat should make the administration increasingly interested in finding a way forward that supports economic growth and the markets," Haefele also said. The U.S. economy grew at a rate of 3.2% in the first quarter of this year. This is after registering growing 2.2% in the previous quarter. Data released last Friday also showed the United States economy added 263,000 jobs in April and the unemployment rate fell to 3.6%, a near 50-year low. In the meantime, higher tariffs on Chinese goods could have an impact on the U.S. as well the European economies. This is because analysts are expecting China to retaliate. "New tariffs on Chinese goods coming to the U.S. would be bad also for the EU. Tariff hikes lower the temperature of the world economy, and that means falling demand also for EU goods. Since China is likely to retaliate, the effect will also be stronger than what would happen if it was only the U.S. that raised their tariffs," Erixon told CNBC. Washington (AFP) - Chinese trade officials intend to "make a deal" in a new round of talks in Washington this week, President Donald Trump said Wednesday, reviving hopes for negotiations that appeared to be hanging by a thread. However, with negotiations set to resume on Thursday, there was no letup in last minute brinkmanship, and China has vowed to retaliate if Trump follows through on plans to ratchet up existing tariffs. Trump has continued to pressure Beijing, pressing ahead with plans to more than double the punitive duties on $200 billion in Chinese merchandise by Friday -- a prospect that has sent shivers through the global economy since last year. China's Commerce Ministry warned of unspecified retaliation should Trump not back down. The escalation was "not in the interests of the two countries' people," a ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday. "If the US tariff measures are put into effect, China will have no choice but to take the necessary countermeasures." US officials on Monday effectively canceled a six-month trade truce, accusing Chinese negotiators of backsliding on major commitments agreed to thus far in months of talks. And Trump on Wednesday suggested he was comfortable either with making a deal or with leaving the tariffs in place. "We'll see but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling US coffers...great for US, not good for China!" US officials accused Chinese negotiators of reneging on commitments made during months of talks. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer released an official notice Wednesday that duty rates on a vast array of Chinese-made electrical equipment, machinery, auto parts and furniture would jump to 25 percent after midnight (0400 GMT) on Friday. Following Trump's first Twitter screed Sunday on tariffs, stock markets around the world sank for two trading days. But Wall Street had seen solid gains as of 1700 GMT as investors absorbed news the talks were still on. Story continues - Profound changes - The world's top two economies have exchanged tariffs on more than $360 billion in two-way trade, gutting US soy bean exports to China and weighing on the manufacturing sectors in both countries. But amid robust US economic growth, American officials have long believed they are better positioned than Beijing to withstand the pain of a trade war. Officials with the Institute for Supply Management said Wednesday that while the tariffs create a "headwind" for the US economy, the outlook for services and manufacturing was still positive this year. Anthony Nieves, who heads the ISM survey of the services sector, told reporters the tariffs were hitting China "a lot more than what we're feeling over here in the states. There's a lot of pressure on them." Trump also tweeted Wednesday that Chinese officials mistakenly hoped they could hold off to negotiate with a "very weak" future Democratic president "and thereby continue to ripoff the United States... for years to come." However, economists and even Trump's fellow Republicans in Congress, stress that US importers and consumers are the ones that pay the price for higher tariffs. Washington has demanded far-reaching and profound changes to the Chinese economy, such as submitting state enterprises to market principles, reducing massive subsidies and ending the alleged "theft" of US technology. Analysts say China will be reluctant to make many of these changes, which could undermine the Communist Party's political power. Despite the trade war, the value of US imports of Chinese goods have continued to rise, widening the soaring trade deficit with China. By Keith Coffman CASTLE ROCK, Colo. (Reuters) - The older of two students accused of fatally shooting a classmate and wounding eight others in a suburban Denver high school made his initial court appearance on Wednesday, a day after his arrest on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. The 18-year-old defendant being charged as an adult, Devon Erickson, sat silently at a small table with his head bowed and his hands shackled to his waist, flanked by two defense lawyers as a pair of sheriff's deputies stood just behind them. It was not immediately clear whether his accused accomplice, who is under the age of 18, would be charged in adult court or as a juvenile. The two teenagers are accused of opening fire on fellow students in two classrooms at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, about 25 miles (40 km) south of Denver. Erickson's attorneys asked the judge to allow defense investigators to oversee processing of the crime scene by law enforcement officers, but prosecutors objected. Douglas County District Court Judge Theresa Slade denied that request. No plea was entered in the case. The defendant, whose friends told the Denver Post that he had acted in musical theater and performed as lead singer in several rock bands, was ordered to return to court on Friday. Slight of build with his longish, unkempt black hair partially dyed bright lavender, Erickson appeared in court wearing an orange-red jail uniform. Erickson was being held on suspicion of a single count of first-degree murder and 29 counts of attempted murder, according to court records. Eight students were wounded in the shooting and survived. The attack occurred less than a month after the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre in nearby Littleton, about 5 miles from Highlands Ranch, carried out by two students who shot 13 people to death before committing suicide. FIGHTING BACK The 18-year-old student killed in Tuesday's shooting, identified by his family as Kendrick Ray Castillo, was a senior just days away from graduation, police said on Wednesday as they continued to search for a motive in the attack. He was one of several students, according to eyewitness accounts, who charged at the two assailants in an attempt to disarm them. Another, Brendan Bialy, is a student enrolled in the U.S. Marine Corps' delayed entry program, NBC News reported. Denver's ABC television affiliate, citing an unidentified police source, reported on Tuesday that one of the suspects, apparently the younger of the two, was born male, but identified as female and had been bullied for it. Sheriff Tony Spurlock declined to answer a reporter's question about whether the younger suspect was transgender. "Right now we are identifying the individual as a female, because that's where we're at," he said. "We originally thought the juvenile was a male by appearance." Spurlock said the suspect had been identified as male "before the detectives were able to get the medical - and detectives were able to speak to her." Precisely what happened inside the STEM school remained unclear. Spurlock said there was a "struggle" as officers entered the building, and some students said one victim was shot in the chest as he tried to tackle a shooter. A man who identified himself as Fernando Montoya said his 17-year-old son, a junior at STEM, was shot three times when a shooter walked into his classroom and opened fire. "He said a guy pulled a pistol out of a guitar case and started to shoot," Montoya told the Denver TV station. The bloodshed shocked the affluent suburb of Highlands Ranch. Parents and students had considered the school a safe place for its 1,850 pupils ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade. "It still doesnt seem real to me. It completely came out of nowhere," Aiden Beatty, a friend of Erickson's told the Denver Post, recounting that he broke down sobbing in his car when he heard Erickson had been arrested in the shooting. "I was really close with him. We were best friends." The attack came a week after a gunman opened fire on the Charlotte campus of the University of North Carolina, killing two people and wounding four others. (Reporting by Keith Coffman in Denver; additional reporting by Jonathan Allen and Peter Szekely in New York and Andrew Hay in Taos, New Mexico; writing by Scott Malone and Steve Gorman; editing by Jeffrey Benkoe, Bill Trott, Susan Thomas and G Crosse) By Humeyra Pamuk and Jonathan Landay WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered new sanctions on Iran, this time targeting the Islamic Republic's export revenues from its industrial metals sector, and vowed to keep squeezing Tehran unless it "fundamentally alters" its policies. The announcement was made on the anniversary of Trump's unilateral withdrawal of the United States from a 2015 landmark deal between Tehran and world powers to curb its nuclear program in exchange for easing some sanctions and hours after Tehran said it would no longer fully comply with the accord. Tensions were already high between Washington and Tehran when the Trump administration said last weekend that it was deploying a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East, in response to what it said were "troubling indications and warnings" from Iran. Before Trump's executive order for the sanctions, a senior White House official said Washington would impose more economic curbs on Tehran 'very soon' and had warned Europe to stop doing business with the Islamic Republic. "Today's action targets Iran's revenue from the export of industrial metals - 10 percent of its export economy - and puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated," Trump said in a statement. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said. The Trump administration says the nuclear deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed as it is not permanent, does not address Iran's ballistic missile program and does not punish it for waging proxy wars in other Middle East countries. Leading Democratic lawmakers such as Chris Murphy, the top Democrat on the Senate's Middle East subcommittee, said Iran's halting compliance to some parts of the deal was "disastrous news" and accused Republican Trump's administration of making America much less safe through its policies. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi requested a briefing on Iran for members. Hours before the fresh U.S. sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Tehran was reducing curbs to its nuclear program with steps that for now stopped short of violating the 2015 accord. But it threatened more action if countries did not shield it from sanctions. Tehran halting compliance with some elements of the nuclear deal was "nothing less than nuclear blackmail of Europe," Tim Morrison, special assistant to the U.S. president and senior director for weapons of mass destruction, told a conference. "Now is the time for the community of nations to strongly condemn Irans nuclear misconduct and increase pressure on the regime to comply with U.S. demands," Morrison said, adding that Washington was not 'done' with sanctions on Iran. Morrison said the United States would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to undermine Washington's sanctions pressure on Iran. He advised them against using the so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions. "If you are a bank, an investor, an insurer or other business in Europe you should know that getting involved in the ... Special Purpose Vehicle is a very poor business decision," Morrison said. Spearheaded by national security adviser John Bolton, the Trump administration has taken several unprecedented steps to squeeze Iran such as demanding the world halt all Iranian oil imports and designating Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization, which Iran has cast as an American provocation. "We have made our focus diplomatic isolation and economic pressure and that policy is working," Brian Hook, Special Envoy for Iran, said in a briefing. Hook said that more nations now, compared with a year ago, were in agreement with the United States on Iran. Washington's European allies opposed Trump's decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal and have failed so far to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Jonathan Landay; Additional reporting by Patricia Zengerle and Makini Brice, Editing by Mary Milliken and Grant McCool) NEW DELHI (AP) The U.S.peace envoy on Afghanistan on Tuesday met with Indian leaders and discussed peace efforts amid the envoy's ongoing dialogue with the Taliban, an Indian official said. India's External Affairs Ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said that India will work with key partners in coming days. Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad met with India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and other officials in New Delhi. The Taliban said over the weekend that the gap is narrowing in talks with Khalilzad over a timetable for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan. Talks between the U.S. and Taliban began last year with the appointment of Khalilzad as the U.S. peace envoy. The two sides are meeting in Qatar, where the insurgent movement maintains a political office. The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi said on Tuesday that Khalilzad discussed with Indian leaders an emerging international consensus for peace efforts. The embassy in a statement said Khalilzad highlighted benefits that peace would bring to the region including the prevention of using Afghanistan as a platform for terror attacks, improved prospects for regional peace and security and increased regional trade. Khalilzad also recognized "the many important contributions India has made to Afghanistan's development," the statement said. India has been training Afghan soldiers and helping war-ravaged Afghanistan build infrastructure. Seungri leaves Sophisticated Crime Investigation Unit under the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency in Seoul's Jongno-gu, May 3, after being questioned for allegedly embezzling money from Burning Sun, a night club in Seoul's Gangnam district. Yonhap Police said they requested an arrest warrant for former BIGBANG member Seungri Wednesday on charges that he embezzled money from a Seoul night club embroiled in drug and sex scandals and arranged sexual services for foreign investors. Seungri, a 29-year-old whose real name is Lee Seung-hyun, is accused of colluding with his business partner, Yoo In-suk, a former head of Yuri Holdings Co., to arrange prostitution services for Japanese investors in 2015. Seungri and Yoo are also suspected of embezzling about 200 million won ($172,000) from Burning Sun, a club in southern Seoul where he worked as a public relations director, in July 2016. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency (SMPA) said it has requested warrants for pre-trial detention of Seungri and Yoo for violating the Act on the Punishment of Arrangement of Commercial Sex Acts, etc. and the Act on the Aggravated Punishment, etc. of Specific Economic Crimes. "The two suspects appear to have jointly arranged sexual services and embezzlement, though details cannot be disclosed due to the ongoing investigation," an official at the SMPA said. Police said they have confirmed Yoo solicited prostitutes when a group of seven Japanese businessmen visited Seoul in December 2015 and wired money to a broker. It has also been confirmed that some of the Japanese nationals bought sexual services in Seoul, police said, adding a total of 17 women have been booked on related prostitution charges. Separately, police have also been investigating allegations of similar sexual services arranged by Seungri and Yoo at a Seoul nightclub named Arena in 2015 and at a birthday party for Seungri in the Philippines in 2017. Police opened their probe after a group text conversation between Seungri and Yoo in 2015 indicated they were preparing a "special party" and girls for visiting Japanese guests. Yoo reportedly admitted to parts of his charges but Seungri denied the charges against him, police said. According to the SMPA, its investigators have grilled Seungri and Yoo over allegations that they embezzled 200 million won by having Burning Sun pay the money to Monkey Museum, another Seoul club co-founded by the two, to use its brand. They are also accused of misappropriating Yuri Holdings' funds to pay the legal fees related to Monkey Museum. (Yonhap) Washington (AFP) - The US Air Force is deploying massive B-52 Stratofortress bombers to the Gulf in response to an alleged possible plan by Iran to attack American forces in the region, the Pentagon said Tuesday. Several nuclear-capable B-52s are heading to the region along with an aircraft carrier task force following what the Defense Department called "recent and clear indications that Iranian and Iranian proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack US forces." "The deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force are considered a prudent step in response to indications of heightened Iranian readiness to conduct offensive operations against US forces and our interests," said acting Pentagon spokesman Charles Summers in a statement. "We emphasize the White House statement that we do not seek war with the Iranian regime, but we will defend US personnel, our allies and our interests in the region." The deployment was first announced late Sunday by John Bolton, President Donald Trump's national security advisor, who said the move was "a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force." The US move comes in response to intelligence about a threat orchestrated by Iran, officials said, but details of the threat have not been disclosed. Navy Captain Bill Urban, the spokesman for the US military's Central Command, which spans the Middle east, said the threat could be land-based or maritime. He said the Lincoln strike group was already scheduled to head to the region on long-planned deployment but that its arrival in the Gulf has been accelerated due to the threat. That led to the cancellation of a planned port visit by the Lincoln to Split, Croatia. The multinational carrier group, including several ships, multiple types of aircraft, and 6,000 personnel, will be deployed "where it will best be able to protect US forces and interests in the region and to deter any aggression." The deployment comes a year after Trump pulled the United States out of a multinational accord under which Tehran drastically scaled back its sensitive nuclear work. Since then, the Trump administration has ramped up menacing rhetoric against Iran while tightening economic sanctions on the country. GARY, Ind. (AP) A northwestern Indiana woman has agreed to plead guilty to a reduced neglect charge stemming from her 2-year-old daughter's shooting death. Twenty-two-year-old Dashana Fowler of Gary agreed Monday to plead guilty to neglect of a dependent resulting in bodily injury in the Sept. 4 death of Jayla Miller. Under the plea agreement, Fowler will be sentenced to three years in prison. She originally was charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in a death, which carries a prison sentence of 20 to 40 years. Court documents say Fowler's son told investigators his sister reached under a pillow, grabbed a handgun and shot herself. Fowler also agreed to testify against her former boyfriend, a convicted felon accused of owning the gun that killed Jayla. Her sentencing is set for June 3. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Gimpo police and rescue workers from the Incheon Fire Department investigate the accident scene on the Incheon Airport Expressway where actress Han Ji-sung was hit by two cars early Monday morning. Courtesy of Incheon Fire Department By Lee Gyu-lee Actress Han Ji-sung. Photo from Instagram Actress Han Ji-sung was struck and killed by two cars on the Incheon Airport Expressway in Gimpo, Monday, according to a local news outlet Wednesday. TV Daily said Han, 29, was killed about 3:50 a.m. on the road heading towards Seoul. Gimpo police said Han stopped her car and stepped out of the driver's seat in the middle of the three-lane expressway. She was then hit by a taxi and an SUV. The victim died from head injuries while being taken to a hospital. The victim's husband, who was in the passenger seat, told the police the couple pulled over because he had to urinate. He said the accident happened as he was returning to the car. Han debuted in 2010 with the now-defunct K-pop girl group B.Dolls, under the stage name Sei. After the disbandment of the group, she has been featured in several TV dramas and theatrical plays. The drivers who hit Han were taken into police custody. Authorities plan to investigate whether they exceeded the 100-kilometer-per-hour speed limit. They also plan to request an autopsy of the victim. For the first time since Zachary Baumel went missing in action in Lebanon 37 years ago, his family has a grave at which to mourn on Memorial Day. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The Baumel family spent almost four decades without knowing what happened to the soldier, who disappeared during a battle near the Syrian border in the First Lebanon War. His remains were located in Syria and brought back to Israel for burial last month. Zachary Baumel (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit) Baumel went missing during in Lebanon in June 1982, along with Zvi Feldman and Yehuda Katz. His remains made their way to Israel after a two-year operation named Bittersweet Song, in which Israeli Intelligence units, along with Russian forces, located the MIA's remains in Syria. On Monday, the Baumel family went to visit Zachary's grave in Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem, 30 days after the burial. They were surprised to discover a great crowd awaiting them that wished to honor Zachary's memory. The funeral for Zachary Baumel at Mount Herzl military cemetery in Jerusalem (Photo: EPA) "We saw all the people of Israel: the elderly, the young, the secular and the religious," said Asna Haberman, Zachary's sister. "This place brings people together and connects them. They came from all over the country, north and south. There was a feeling of unity," she said. Zachary Baumel's mother Miriam, left, at his grave during the service to mark 30 days of mourning (Photo: Ohad Zwigenberg) Zachary's father Yonah, who worked tirelessly to find information about his son's fate, never lived to see his burial. He died a decade ago, but his actions helped keep the search for his son in the public eye. The families of Zvi Feldman and Yehuda Katz, the two other MIAs from the battle, expressed their hopes that their loved ones will also be found following the return of Baumel's remains. On Wednesday they will commemorate another Memorial Day without knowing what happened to their sons. Zachary and Yonah Baumel (Photo: Courtesy) The Sultan Yacoub battle took place on the sixth day of the First Lebanon War, near the Lebanese village of Sultan Yacoub close to the Syrian border. Israel suffered 20 confirmed losses in the battle, as well as dozens of wounded. Six soldiers were unaccounted for, including Baumel, Feldman, and Katz. Several years later, two of the other missing soldiers were returned alive to Israel in prisoner exchanges with Syria and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. The body of the sixth soldier was also returned to Israel. Zachary Baumel, Zvi Feldman and Yehuda Katz, who went missing in 1982 Israel released two Syrian prisoners in what it said was a "gesture," several weeks after Baumel's remains were repatriated. Officials claimed the gesture was decided on after Baumel's funeral and did not constitute a prisoner exchange deal. The Israel Air Force will honor residents of the Gaza border communities in a special flyover on Independence Day. The event is in addition to the regular flyover to mark Israel's birthday. The IDF said that the flyover was "an expression of gratitude for the firm stand that the residents showed during the past few days of fighting and throughout the years." In 1948, it had a population of 806,000 people. Seventy-one years later, for the first time, there are more than nine million Israelis - 9,021,000 to be exact. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter In preparation for Independence Day, the Central Bureau of Statistics published a wealth of data on Israel and its residents. As of today, there are 6,697 million Jews living in the country, 1.890 million Arabs - 20.9% of the population of Israel, and 434,000 defined as "others" - 4.8% of the country's population. The illegal immigrants and foreign workers living in Israel, an estimated 166,000 people, are not included in the data. 2018 Independence Day celebrations in Jerusalem (Photo: EPA) Israel's population has grown by 177,000 since last year's Independence Day, an increase of 2%, in line with the annual growth of recent years. Some 188,000 babies were born in Israel over the past 12 months, 31,000 new immigrants arrived and 47,000 people passed away. Since the greatest of the state, Israel has absorbed 3,000,000 immigrants, 43% of whom immigrated to Israel after 1990. Of the current Jewish population, 75% are native Israelis. The average Israeli family has 3.11 children. Fireworks for Independence Day 2018 On the 100th Independence Day in 2048, the CBS predicts that Israel will be home to 15.2 million people. While this is a reason to celebrate, it is also a cause for concern given how crowded the country will be and how enormous the traffic jams. The number of vehicles in the country stands at 3,495,412, for Israel's 4,358,402 licensed drivers. Independence Day fireworks in Jerusalem, 2018 The data also shows that Israel has a relatively high number of octogenarians, with 48,000 people aged 90 and over. The life expectancy for men in Israel is 80.7 years, while Israeli women are expected to live longer with an average lifespan of 84.6 years. Independence Day revelers in Tel Aviv, 2018 The average monthly income of an Israeli household was NIS 16,518 (approx. $4,600) per month in 2017, a real increase of 4.6% compared to the year before. The average wage per employee was NIS 10,473 (approx. $2,900). Over the past 12 months, Israel has welcomed 4.4 million visitors (and this is still without the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest!). Ben-Gurion International Airport also recorded 8.5 million departures abroad by Israelis. And the happiest figure of all - 88.9% of Israelis are satisfied with life in the country. Islamic Jihad leader Ziad Nahala said Wednesday that he expects a war between Israel and the Gaza terror groups to break out during the summer. Nahala gave an interview to the Al Mayadeen television network based in Beirut and called the last round of fighting that ended Monday "a drill ahead of the war to come." Nahala added that if the confrontation with Israel would have continued, rockets would have been launched at Tel Aviv "within hours" of the time of the ceasefire. According to Nahala, his Iran-back group works in full cooperation with Hamas, and said that the two terror groups "have no disputes." Iran's president said Wednesday that it will begin keeping its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, setting a 60-day deadline for new terms to its nuclear deal with world powers before it will resume higher uranium enrichment. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter Hassan Rouhani's address to the nation came on the anniversary of President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw America from the atomic accord. Rouhani said Iran wanted to negotiate new terms with remaining partners in the deal, but acknowledged that the situation was dire. "This surgery is to save the (deal), not destroy it," Rouhani said. Hassan Rouhani (Photo: Associated Press) The 2015 deal saw sanctions on Iran lifted in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. After the US withdrew from the accord it restored crippling sanctions on Iran, exacerbating a severe economic crisis. Iran sent letters Wednesday on its decision to the leaders of Britain, China, the European Union, France and Germany. All were signatories to the nuclear deal and continue to support it. A letter was also to go to Russia. "If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal," Rouhani said. There was no immediate response from the US However, the White House said Sunday it would dispatch an aircraft carrier and a bomber wing to the Persian Gulf over what it described as a new threat from Iran. US dispatches aircraft carrier to the Persian Gulf (Photo: AP) Under terms of the deal, Iran can keep a stockpile of no more than 300 kilograms (660 pounds) of low-enriched uranium. That's compared to the 10,000 kilograms (22,046 pounds) of higher-enriched uranium it once had. The US last week ended deals allowing Iran to exchange its enriched uranium for unrefined yellowcake uranium with Russia, as well as it being able to sell its heavy water to Oman. The US also has ended waivers for nations buying Iranian crude oil, a key source of revenue for Iran's government. Currently, the accord limits Iran to enriching uranium to 3.67%, which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Weapons-grade uranium needs to be enriched to around 90%. However, once a country enriches uranium to around 20%, scientists say the time needed to reach 90% is halved. Iran has previously enriched to 20%. Qatari envoy Muhammad al-Amadi will visit the Gaza Strip on Friday and distribute the grant Qatar had promised to supply the coastal enclave's needy population, as agreed on with Israel, reported the Al Akhbar newspaper. The Lebanese newspaper also cited an unnamed Gaza militant, who said that the Strip's terror groups gave Israel a week to implement the terms agreed on in the ceasefire arrangement between the sides on Sunday night. Jewish Agency Chairman Isaac Herzog expressed solidarity Wednesday with members of the US Jewish community after two deadly terror attacks in synagogues in Pittsburgh and San Diego. "We have gone through a lot of grief in Israel and abroad," Herzog said at a special Jewish Agency ceremony. "On this day, Jews in the Diaspora stand together with Israelis in their grief, and we in Israel stand together with Jews in the Diaspora in their grief." Herzog added that, "Zionism and (our) joint destiny are sanctified in blood." Amid a rise of violent attacks against the Jewish community, students and staff members at Jewish day schools in the same neighborhood as the Pittsburgh synagogue that was the site of Octobers mass shooting are asking state lawmakers for help paying for security measures. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter They went to Pennsylvanias Capitol on Tuesday, along with delegations from Jewish schools in other cities around the state, to meet with lawmakers about including non-public schools in a year-old $60 million school security grant program. The Pittsburgh community after the October shooting (Photo: EPA) It is a conversation that is growing in a number of states. New Jersey doubled money for such grants in January and Californias governor is upping his spending request to $15 million from $500,000 for increased security at nonprofit organizations at higher risk of hate crimes, like the synagogue near San Diego where a gunman killed a worshipper late last month. Like some other states, Pennsylvania began a $10 million school safety grant program after the 2012 mass shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut. It then created a new, $60 million school and community security grant program after last years mass shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida, but private schools did not have access to the grants. Heightened security has been in place at many Jewish day schools in recent years. But parents and staff at Jewish day schools say they are more alarmed now in the wake of the shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh and the shooting at Poway Chabad synagogue near San Diego on the last day of the Jewish holiday of Passover. The Chabad of Poway Synagogue after the shooting late April (Photo: AP) Security has been on the minds of parents and staff for a long time, she said. But after Pittsburgh, you cant ignore it, its just in your face. Violent attacks against the Jewish community in the United States doubled last year, while overall attacks that also include vandalism and harassment remained near record-high levels, the Anti-Defamation League reported last week. Samara Sofian, director of development for the Silver Academy in Harrisburg, said parents of the Jewish day schools students are asked to pay a security fee every year. But, she said, it doesnt go far enough and annually that expense increases, even if the school isnt adding safety measures. Local residents express support for local Jewish community after the synagogue shooting (Photo: AP) Recently introduced legislation in the Republican-controlled Legislature is drawing bipartisan support. Gov. Tom Wolf, a Democrat, sympathizes with the safety and security concerns of the Jewish community and his office is reviewing the bill, his office said in a statement. Isaac Entin, head of the Caskey Torah Academy in suburban Philadelphia, said the cost of security is a significant amount, and must come first. Since the synagogue shootings, school officials are thinking about it more. Theres no way not to, Entin said. Its how you walk down the street. Its how you go to services on Saturday, its what happens every day as you watch the kids come into school and get off the bus, watching kids, any kids from any school get on the bus as you drive through your neighborhood. The world has changed. The school, he said, is digging deep to pay for security. Federal homeland security grants are hard to get, and private schools have access to a much more limited pool of state dollars than do public schools, Entin said. Non-public schools arent being treated the same as public schools, Entin said. We all have same threats, but were not giving equal footing for safety. Chong Won-o, center, head of Seongdong-gu Office, poses in the office building, April 17, with members of the operation committee for a new multilingual children's library, including eight foreign mothers from multicultural families. / Courtesy of Seongdong-gu Office By Lee Suh-yoon Seongdong-gu, eastern Seoul, will open a multilingual library for young citizens from multiracial families in June. The small library will hold some 2,500 children's books in foreign languages to be organized by country. Foreign parents will be able to visit the library with their children to let them play with their peers and read them storybooks in their mother tongues. The library's operation and book purchases will be overseen by eight foreign mothers from China, Vietnam, the Philippines and Mongolia, all residents of the district. "We're very happy with the plan," Davaanyam Mart, 35, a Mongolian woman with a son in elementary school, said in a phone interview. "At schools, only English is taught as a second language. As we foreign mothers are now better accustomed to living in Korea, it would be nice to teach our own languages to our children." The majority of multiracial families in Korea are comprised of a foreign wife and a Korean husband. Raising bilingual children will also help foreign mothers better bond with their children, Mart says. "We foreign mothers may throw out Korean words in conversations but the words don't carry real emotions for us," Mart said. "If the child can speak the foreign mother's language, mothers can forge a deeper bond with their child." There were around 1,050 children of multiracial families living in Seongdong-gu as of 2017, according to Seoul City data. "Foreign books (at existing libraries in Seongdong-gu) are catered to adult foreign residents, making it difficult for their children to develop bilingual skills," Chong Won-o, head of Seongdong-gu Office, said in a press statement, Sunday. "This new library is part of a specially tailored policy to provide language recognition and development for multiracial children in a necessary time frame. The fact the design for the library was developed by multiracial families themselves makes it even more meaningful." The library will be open every weekday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Located near Wangsimni Station on Seoul Metro lines 2 and 5, as well as the Gyeongui-Jungang and Bundang lines, the library will also host literary and multilingual classes. The ceremony in honor of the victims of terror is taking place in Jerusalem's Mt. Herzl. participating are, in additional to victim's families, President Reuven Rivlin, Prime Minister Netanyahu, Speaker of the Knesset and Supreme Court Chief Justice along with other dignitaries. Netanyahu said "The IDF is resolute in its fight against the terror organization.This campaign is not over. We are considering the next step that must be taken to ensure the security of the Israel" Prime Minister Netanyahu at the ceremony honoring victims of terror Thousands of civilians have perished in atrocities targeting Israelis since the country's independence 71 years ago. The State of Israel on Wednesday honored the 23,741 troops and 3,150 civilians killed in hostilities since the establishment of the state, with services and ceremonies across the country for Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror. Four of the dead were killed this week in a massive barrage of rockets and missiles from Gaza. The victims of Terror are being remembered in a ceremony on Mt. Herzl. 3.150 Israelis, victim of terror perpetuated against civilians, over the years since the establishment of the state of Israel, were honored in an annual ceremony with the participation of the President, Prime Minister, Supreme Court Justices, Speaker of Knesset and other dignitaries. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The nation fell silent at 11am for a two-minute siren that sounded across the country. At Jerusalem's ordinarily boisterous and bustling Mahane Yehuda market, shoppers and vendors froze in place and cafe patrons stood at their tables during the siren. Cars, trucks and buses stopped on highways across Israel, and their passengers exited to stand with heads bowed. The siren was followed by a central memorial ceremony for fallen soldiers at Mount Herzl military cemetery, in the presence of President Reuven Rivlin, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi. Benjamin Netanyahu at the central state memorial service at Mount Herzl cemetery in Jerusalaem Speaking at the Mount Herzl ceremony, Netanyahu hit back on Iran's announcement that it would partially withdraw from its nuclear deal with world powers in response to U.S. pressure. "We will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons," said Netanyahu, a long-standing and vociferous opponent to the July 2015 deal brokered by former president Barack Obama. "We will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives, and we will thrust our roots even deeper into the soil of our homeland." Official ceremonies were held in cemeteries and other locations throughout the country, with representatives of the government and the Knesset in attendance. Israeli flags adorn the graves at Kiryat Shaul cemetery in Tel Aviv (Photo: TPS) The Defense Ministry said that it expected more than 1.5 million people to visit the country's 52 military cemeteries and hundreds of military burial plots stretching from Kiryat Shmona in the north to Eilat in the south. This year, ceremonies were also held at some 50 memorials throughout the country. A memorial service for the Armored Corps at Latrun (Photo: AP) On Wednesday morning, the Memorial Ceremony for the Fallen Soldiers of Israel and the Victims of Hostilities in Israel was held at the Jewish Agency Plaza in Jerusalem, and also commemorated the Jews murdered in anti-Semitic incidents around the world. The Israel Air Force holds a service at its national memorial in Jerusalem (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky) The ceremony focused on the victims of anti-Semitic attacks in synagogues in the United States, and was attended by US Ambassador David Friedman, the director of the Greater Pittsburgh Jewish Federation, Jeff Finkelstein, and the representative of the victims' families, Marnie Feinberg, who lit the memorial beacon. Cars stop in Tel Aviv as drivers stand in silence for a siren to honor the dead (Photo: Shahar Goldstein) "This year we have suffered a lot of grief and pain in the State of Israel and in the Diaspora," said Jewish Agency Chairman Isaac Herzog in a speech commemorating the 12 victims of the Pittsburgh synagogue attack. "On this day, Jews in the Diaspora stand together with Israelis in their grief, and we in Israel stand together with Jews in the Diaspora in their grief." A memorial service at Nahalat Yitzhak Cemetery in Givatyaim (Photo: Moti Kimchi) "Anti-Semites do not care about the differences between us and they do not distinguish between labels like Chabad or Conservative or Reconstructionist," said Finkelstein. "In their eyes, we are all Jews." The Israel Police also held a ceremony in the organization's section of Mount Herzl cemetery, to commemorate the 1,498 fallen officers who fell or passed away during or after their service. Acting Israel Police Commissioner Moti Cohen at the Memorial Day ceremony 2019 (Photo: Israel Police) The ceremony was held in the presence of Acting Police Commissioner Moti Cohen and senior officers of the Israel Police, officers and bereaved families. "The history of Israel is accompanied by an unceasing struggle for the existence of the state, which is bound by a high price of blood," Cohen said. "The Israel Police paid part of this heavy price and has had an important role in shaping the democratic character of the State of Israel." The central gathering to usher in Memorial Day began at the Western Wall in Jerusalem at 8:01pm on Tuesday night, following a minute-long siren and moment of silence. Rivlin, IDF Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi and Acting Israel Police Commissioner Motti Cohen were in attendance. Kiryat Shaul cemetery in central Israel (Photo: Moti Kimchi) Rivlin spoke about the return last month of the remains of Zachariah Baumel, who was missing in battle for 37 years. Baumel's return, Rivlin said, was an example of Israel fulfilling its pledge to Israeli mothers and fathers, who send their children into battle, that Israel will not rest until each and every soldier returns home. The IDF chief of staff spoke about how each fallen soldier strengthens the security of the nation. "The highest expression of the sanctity of life is doing all we can to minimize the extent of losses in battle and in peacetime. The operational objective is primary, and for that we endanger our lives. But refining combat methods as well as improving our training is the will of the fallen and we must work to fulfill it." The day of grief ends at sundown, when celebrations to mark Independence Day begin. Leader of Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group believes the recent deadly flare-up between Israel and Gaza militants was a military exercise ahead of a large-scale war in the coming summer, according to a report in Beirut-based pan-Arab TV channel Al-Mayadeen Tuesday. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter In the latest round of cross-border fighting, which erupted over the weekend, Palestinian militants fired more than 700 rockets into Israel, killing four Israeli civilians, the first Israeli fatalities from rocket fire since the 50-day war in 2014, known in Israel as Operation Protective Edge. On Monday, an Egypt-mediated ceasefire was reached between Palestinian factions and Israeli officials. Islamic Jihad militants (Photo: AFP) "I anticipate a war to erupt in the summer, following Israels attempts to disarm the Palestinian factions in Gaza, the terror groups leader Ziad al-Nakhala said in an interview to Al-Mayadeen, adding the ceasefire was reached just hours before the militants in the Hamas-ruled enclave planned to launch rockets at Tel Aviv. Nakhala also said the IDFs recently adopted policy of bombing multi-storey buildings and homes of factions leaders in the Strip, would not remain unanswered. Islamic Jihad leader Ziad al-Nakhala He claimed that Israels promise to implement the understandings reached in an earlier ceasefire deal from March (which include lifting of the Gaza blockade) is what convinced the terror groups to hold fire. In addition, Nakhala accused Israel of constantly trying to "drive a wedge between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority," claiming the relationship between Hamas and Fatah is stable. "The coordination between us and Fatah is at the highest level." Rockets being launched from Gaza into Israel (: ) Nakhala thanked Hamas leader, Yahya Sinwar, for allowing the factions to retaliate to Israel killing two Gaza militants in an aerial attack on Friday, which came after two Israeli soldiers were wounded in a cross-border exchange of fire. The terms of the latest deal were not immediately known, but recent ceasefires have been short-lived. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that Israel will not allow Tehran to obtain nuclear weaponry. He was speaking at the annual memorial service for Israel's fallen soldiers and terror victims in Jerusalem, after Iran said it is rethinking the internationally brokered nuclear agreement. On Memorial Day eve, at 8pm, during the siren in honor of fallen soldiers, fireworks lit up the sky in the Arab-Jewish city of Lod. Naturally, this despicable event made headlines and was criticized through and through, and rightfully so. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter An Arab man was behind this provocation, but he got what he deserved and was arrested soon after. An Israeli, a Lod resident, who wanted to harm the relationship between Jews and Arabs, stained our public the whole Arab Israeli public. Bedouin IDF soldiers patrolling the Israel-Egypt border (Photo: Haim Horenstein) Many in the Arab sector spoke against him, but unfortunately, there are others like him in our society extreme individuals who don't represent us, who wish to deepen the rift within Israeli society and use every opportunity to do so. Years come and go, but this year, it's especially important that the Arab public shares Israeli grief. Memorial Day isn't a Jewish event. It's an Israeli event, and as such, it also belongs to us. I'm not naive. Reality is complex, and the different sectors of our society face badges. Our sector also faces many challenges, like the challenge of becoming an integral part of Israeli society. Bedouin Israeli Ziad Alhamamda was by a Gaza rocket this week There are things we will probably never agree on. However, the fact that we can argue about it is only because our security forces work days and nights to protect us, and because of the sacrifices that IDF fallen soldiers made for our security. The IDF is the Israel Defense Force, its isn't here only to protect Jews. Especially this week, when non-Jewish residents faced rocket barrages in the Bedouin cities of the Negev Lakiya, Tel Sheva and Rahat. Some got hurt and one man died. It's clear that the enemy's weapons don't distinguish Jews from Arabs. The only things that stands in their way is our security forces. This isn't new. During the Second Lebanon War, Hezbollah rockets hit Nazareth, the biggest Arab city in Israel. Back then, I had the privilege of being part of the IDF and fighting alongside my brothers in arms. Some of them I lost in that war. Both Jews and Arabs. I was wounded myself. Despite the fact all of us came from different backgrounds, we had one shared target to defend our country at any cost. Memorial Day is the time to put all our baggage aside. All of us, no matter who we are, we must honor IDF soldiers who died defending Israel. That's because first and foremost, we're all Israeli citizens. It's important that on this day, we focus on our sense of belonging and our sense of mutual respect. There will be plenty of time to argue later. I hope that this year, extreme individuals from the Arab sector dont use Memorial Day to make provocations. I hope that the sane majority in Israel will be able to commemorate fallen soldiers and not only the Jewish ones who all died to protect us all. Memorial Day also belongs to us, Arab Israelis. We're also Israeli, and we have to remember that. Yoseph Haddad is an activist and CEO of Together Vouch for Each Other NGO, which works to connect the Arab sector to the Israeli public Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, In a Memorial Day ceremony, held Wednesday, at Mt. Herzl, said: "This morning, on my way here, I heard that Iran intends to pursue its nuclear program" He added. "We will not allow Iran to achieve nuclear weaponry. We will continue to fight those who would kill us". Benjamin Netanyahu at the state Memorial Day ceremony (Photo: Central Productions) Netanyahu's comments came after Wednesday announcement by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani that Iran would stop complying with two of its commitments under the Iranian nuclear deal. Iranian Presiden Hassan Rouhani (Photo: AP) reiterating a long-held Israeli position after Tehran announced it was scaling back some of its commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal. Netanyahu also spoke about the fait of the missing Israeli soldiers and civilians: "I am committed to continuing our efforts to bring home all the missing and captive soldiers, as we had returned Zachary Baumel and the pilot Yakir Naveh, home for burial. The Kremlin said on Wednesday that Iran had been provoked into rolling back some of the terms of a 2015 nuclear deal due to external pressure which it blamed on the United States. Iran said earlier on Wednesday it had started scaling back parts of its commitments under the deal and threatened to do more if world powers did not protect it from U.S. sanctions, a year after Washington pulled out of the pact. "President (Putin) has repeatedly spoken of the consequences of unthought-out steps regarding Iran and by that I mean the decision taken by Washington (to quit the deal). Now we are seeing those consequences are starting to happen," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call. Museum authorities at the Auschwitz-Birkenau former Nazi German death camp in Poland have protested to an online vendor that was selling miniskirts, pillows and other items bearing photos of the camp, where some 1.1 million people were killed during World War II. On Twitter, the museum said that offering such products with images of Auschwitz is "rather disturbing and disrespectful." As Israel celebrates its 71st year of independence, the countrys citizens appear rich, but the country itself acts like it's poor. The level of poverty in a country is reflected in a very low public social expenditure. This includes health, education, and welfare systems, which struggle to function and meet the demands of the ever-growing population, using outdated infrastructures. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter A state doesnt just become impoverished, its a result of government policies that prioritizes economic independence over the social independence of Israeli citizens, which has successfully been passed on into the hands of private entities. Reasonable private wealth has enabled those Israelis who are not particularly wealthy to pick up where the government has left off many years ago in order to create a strong network of mutual support, a phenomenon unprecedented for most developed countries. The grass roots public welfare initiatives Israel are as innovative, vibrant and multifaceted as the country's flourishing high-tech industry, which makes us feel that in times of trouble there will be someone to rely on. Flags in Jerusalem ahead of Independence Day (Photo: EPA) That someone is not the state, but rather our human environment - which includes friends, acquaintances, work colleagues and associates - that has all but replaced the state when it comes to public welfare. Hitting the headlines in Israel recently was a story about Israelis who recruit themselves, their families, their friends, their own money and their efforts in order to promote various public welfare initiatives and programs. Stories of these nature allow us to take a peek at the complexity of the non-governmental and non-corporate sector in Israel. Furthermore, Israels voluntary sector allowed the country to almost land successfully on the moon. The fact that SpaceILs Beresheet project - a prestigious and exemplary enterprise - involved dozens of private citizens who were recruited to develop and promote a project masquerading as Israel's poster child, symbolizes our uniqueness. From time to time - though with decreasing frequency - the voices of various groups and communities can still be heard, demanding the state urgently solves their (sometimes unique) problems. It's the countrys job, they say, to protect its citizens the way a mother protects her offspring, and the 2011 social justice protests were a reflection of this mindset. This Independence Day theres no point in asking what the country can do for us - and not even what we can do for the country - but rather what we, as Israeli citizens, can do for others just like or unlike us. Go and do something for your colleagues, friends, sick, needy and poor. If the state refuses to act, we will all try to be the state and act in its name. Who knows, maybe we'll even succeed in finally bringing peace to the southern border. And this is the message I want you to take away from this little piece. In the summer of 1971, a Druze shepherd got caught in an unfenced minefield on the Golan Heights, and stood on a mine. The mine exploded and the shepherd was seriously injured. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The IDF soldiers and officers who rushed to the scene were at a loss as to how to rescue a man from the heart of a minefield. Then a jeep arrived and a young officer, two meters tall, jumped out. Yossi Dirhali (Photo: Meir Amsalem) "Yossi Dirhali is here," said the gathered crowd with a sigh of relief. Dirhali, the commander of Company B in the elite Egoz Unit of the IDF, did not hesitate, nor did he show any fear. He took an army knife, grabbed a stretcher and got down on all fours, crawling through the minefield, stabbing the knife into the ground every few inches, until he had cleared a path to the shepherd. When he reached the wounded man, he placed him on the stretcher, and with the help of another officer who followed in his wake, pulled the shepherd out of the minefield. For this act of bravery, Dirhali was awarded the Medal of Honor. It was his second military decoration, after he received the Medal of Valor for a rescue under fire. The story of the minefield rescue is just one of many about the adventures of the late Captain Yosef Dirhali, and sheds some light on why this young man, who was killed 47 years ago, left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Yossi Dirhali did not come from a privileged, suburban family. He was the son of Georgian immigrants, who lived in Jaffa. But despite his humble beginnings, at the time of his death he was already a living legend. He was the commander of a venerable company from the Egoz reconnaissance unit who was worshipped by every soldier in the Northern Command, from the lowliest private to the commanding officer. Everyone was convinced that one day he would become the army's chief of staff, but Dirhali was killed before he could fulfill his promised future. He died in yet another daring rescue, this time of soldiers wounded in a Syrian raid on the Golan Heights. A mother's love Dirhali was born in 1950 to a traditional Georgian family who lived in a high-rise block in southern Jaffa. He was a huge boy with enormous physical strength and a somewhat wild personality. He bounced from one high school to another before enlisting in 1968, and ended up in Egoz, a forerunner of the contemporary unit that took its name. Yossi Dirhali (right) was known for his size and strength (Photo: Ami Amsalem) His deployment to Egoz was a seminal moment in his life: Dirhali flourished there as if he had been born to it. His enormous physical fitness, skills of bravery and navigation, adeptness in operating weapons systems, rich charisma and leadership, insightful intelligence reports and perhaps above all his tremendous courage made him the ultimate soldier and officer. Dirhali's abilities were so exceptional that rumors quickly began to circulate among the high command of "the best soldier in the IDF." Before long, Dirhali would take over Company B, which, in the eyes of every one of its soldiers, was the unit's finest. "Dirhali was a punk who roamed the streets of Jaffa. But he had a mother made of granite. She forced him to attend high school, she forced him to matriculate; if not for her, he would have ended up on the streets," said one of his friends at a memorial last November at Dirhali's grave in the Kiryat Shaul military cemetery in Tel Aviv. "I'm standing here at Dirhali's grave," says Avi Yochanan, the commander of Company B, "and I don't understand how such a small grave can hold Dirhali the giant." The guys laugh, staring at the grave in almost complete silence. "All the memories of Dirhali are classified because they are on the verge of being criminal." They all laugh again, with more than a hint of sadness. "I first met Dirhali in August 1970, when I was appointed Egoz commander," says Major General (res.) Uri Simhoni. "He was then the deputy commander of Company B. It was at the end of the War of Attrition in the north, and the border with Lebanon was still largely open, with no fence and no warning systems, and the north suffered constant incursions." Yossi Dirhali (second left) and his Egoz comrades (Photo: Eli Hadad) "Dirhali immediately stood out in every operation," Simhoni says, referring to the cross-border raids to eliminate terrorist strongholds and the ambushes with night vision equipment. "He was exceptionally talented, very clever and probably the most physically powerful officer in the entire IDF. I always put him at the back in every operation so that he could carry whoever fell behind." And Simhoni, an experienced, veteran officer with many feats of his own, drops his usual calm facade when he talks about Dirhali: "I loved him like a son, there is no more to say. He died at such a young age, just 22, but his legacy remains in Egoz until this very day." The fall of friend "Dirhali was a platoon commander when I joined Company B," says Brigadier General (res.) David Agmon, who later became an officer in the infantry and paratroopers. The objective of the operation in the Lebanese village of al-Khiam was to liquidate a terror base. During an assault on a building in the village, Egoz officer Lieutenant Dubi Adar was mortally wounded. "Dubi came from a northern family with an attorney for a father, while Dirhali came from the streets of Jaffa," says Agmon. "But the two were friends, heart and soul." When Dirhali heard over the radio that Dubi had been wounded, he abandoned his own position, ran to the scene of the incident through enemy fire on all sides, loaded Dubi on his back and ran up the hill toward the extraction point. It was for this act that Dirhali received the Medal of Valor, but Dubi died of his wounds and Dirhali was inconsolable. "After Dubi's funeral, Dirhali visited me in hospital," says Agmon. "Suddenly, the big, tough Dirhali began to cry. 'Dubi's gone,' he told me, and I - bedridden with a hand and a leg in the air had to comfort him. "After Dubi was killed, suddenly he was another Yossi, who shut himself up at home on weekends, brooding. He loved Dubi and it was very hard for him," recalls Rachel Radko, who was Yossi's girlfriend at the time. "We met when I was 16. He saw me dancing at a party and said, 'I am going to marry her,' and that was before we'd even exchanged a single word." Yossi Dirhali's comrades at his graveside (Photo: Uri Davidovich) Rachel's stories present an entirely different perspective of Dirhali. "He did so many emotional and gentle things that do not correspond with this macho man who wandered around the army making everyone tremble," she says. "And that's how I want to remember him. A family man and a humane man who could not bear to see anyone suffer and who performed many small gestures. "For example, he could not bear for me to hitchhike home from my army base. I would go home every two weeks and Yossi would almost always come to collect me. 'You're not (hitchhiking),' he would say, 'I am coming to collect you.'" Rachel says she has experienced post-traumatic stress since Dirhali's death. "When my own son enlisted, I took it very hard. He would get on the bus and I would think, it was over. It was as though I was reliving Yossi's death all over again." Yossi Dirhali and his girlfriend, Rachel The two seemingly contradictory sides of Dirhali's personality are raised by almost everyone. This is true of historian Prof. David Ohana, who was a soldier in Egoz during the 1970s. "I was a lowly soldier who arrived at the glorious Company B," Ohana says. "Dirhali's fearsome reputation preceded him. An impressive figure like no other, he was exceptionally tough and frightening, but also paternal and compassionate at the same time," he says. "He had no problem jailing a unit driver for a minor offense, but on the other hand he would return at dawn from a night operation and stand for hours in the kitchen peeling potatoes so that we could all have chips. He would also read literary and philosophical masterpieces, and would spend hours debating intellectual topics with me, the lowly soldier." Death of a giant Dirhali's death in November 1972, was a sad echo of his entire military service: rescuing the wounded under fire. Yossi Dirhali's grave "I will never forget that day," says Ohana. "There was a Syrian bombardment of Quneitra, and he heard that some of the wounded had taken shelter ironically - in the Muslim cemetery there." Dirhali did not think twice, took a half-track driver and drove straight into the site of the shelling without any fear. The artillery barrage did not stop, and a fragment hit the back of Dirhali's neck. "The helmet he wore did not help," says Ohana. "He had a huge head and his steel helmet sat on him like a yarmulke. And so the shrapnel went straight into his neck." "I do not remember how I got to the hospital," says Rachel. "I just remember sitting next to him, it was like he had gone to sleep and should wake up at any moment. It took five days. And I will never forget the sound of helicopters constantly circling over the hospital." "He lay unconscious in Rambam (in Haifa)," says Simhoni. "I stood at his bedside and consulted with the hospital chief. I asked him to bring him the greatest expert in the country for such injuries. I sent a helicopter to Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem to bring in Prof. Aaron Beller, who was a senior neurosurgeon at the time. "Beller examined him, looked at the X-rays and said - I remember it word for word - 'Why did you bring me here? He is a dead man, you should not have sent a helicopter.'" "I asked the medical team how long he would keep breathing," Simhoni says. "They replied 'until the next power cut.'" Dirhali died the next day. "A small piece of shrapnel brought down this giant who stood two meters tall," says Rachel. "I always felt so protected by him, and then he was just lying here, eyes closed, hooked up to to pipes, and lifeless." Germany regrets statements made by the Iranian government and urges Tehran not to take any aggressive steps, a government spokesman said on Wednesday after Iran said it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear programme under a 2015 deal. A German Foreign Ministry spokesman added that Berlin wants to keep the Iran nuclear deal, and said Berlin would fully stick to its commitments as long as Iran does the same. A year after Washington pulled out of the nuclear deal, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday unveiled measures that do not appear to violate its terms yet, but could do so in the future if Iran were to persist on the course he set out. Lee Sun-yeong, a pet trainer at KARA, stresses dog owners use patience when training their pets, during a session at Seoul Pet Education Center in southwestern Seoul, April 25. / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul By Lee Suh-yoon Every Thursday afternoon, pet owners and their furry companions walk into a special classroom on the second floor of Seoul Pet Education Center in Guro-gu, southwestern Seoul. Each group takes a seat in an assigned makeshift cubicle, set up to prevent sudden scuffles and barking matches between the main participants dogs. "To better pacify your pet, spread a snack paste over a textured rubber dishmat like this. This way, it takes a longer time for the pet to lick it up," Lee Sun-yeong, a pet trainer from Korean Animal Rights Advocates (KARA), told the watchful attendees during a class last month. "Peanut butter is effective but fatty, so only use it as your last resort." Pet trainers from KARA run the classes in partnership with the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The classes focus on improving pets' behavior inside the home and in public. A common woe among participating dog owners on the day was containing their dogs' excitement or aggressiveness in street encounters with strangers or other dogs. Distracted with snacks, a furry participant learns how to be comfortable inside a transport crate. / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul An owner and her dog at the entrance of the Seoul Pet Education Center / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul "Dogs like Koong-ee have yet to undergo the process of socialization," said Sohn So-young, a KARA team leader who was also present at the class, pointing at a barking white Pomeranian on her left. "This space and situation are difficult for him." Lee Young-jo, a 31-year-old office worker and Koong-ee's owner, says taking the classes helped him better understand his pet's agitated behavior in public spaces. "I know now in what situations my dog acts this way," he said. "The trainers watch him closely and provide one-on-one training. I'm planning to sign up for the next session as well." Owners must upload videos of their pets practicing the training routines they learned that week on a class blog. The trainer evaluates the pets' and owners' behavior in the following class and hands out additional tips. Owners also record any other worrying behavior they see in their pets and seek one-on-one advice during class. Daebak, a six-year-old poodle, peers out from behind a makeshift partition. / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul Soso's owners train with the golden retriever under the KARA trainer's guidance. / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul On the opposite side of the room, Soso, a two-year-old golden retriever with a much calmer demeanor than others, followed his owner's lead through a routine designed to make pets less distracted and more focused on their owner in public spaces. "Pet training classes usually don't accommodate both owners and pets. I like how this class allows both to participate, allowing us to bond with our dogs," said Seo Jung-min, 38, Soso's owner and a bookstore keeper. "I want to know what I, as the pet owner, am doing wrong, and get the basic guidance for instilling better social manners in my dog." Yang Hye-ji, 27, says she saw a noticeable difference in her six-year-old poodle Daebak after the first two classes on April 11 and 18. Each teaching season is comprised of five weekly classes. "Daebak would bark and run after strangers or other dogs when we went for a walk," Yang said. "Now she barks less." A participating owner and her pet take a walk by a nearby stream during a restroom break. / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul Celebrations for Israel's 71st Independence Day began at Jerusalem's Mt Herzl with the traditional Torch-Lighting Ceremony. IDF bands and flag bearers marched across the parade grounds forming Israel related symbols in highly choreographed fashion. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook STRONG> and Twitter The ceremony began with the Yizkor prayer recited by Shimon Baumel, brother of Zechariah Baumel whose remains were only recently repatriated to Israel 37 years after disappearing in battle in Lebanon. IDF Flagbearers Fireworks in Jerusalem Speaker of the Knesset Yuli Adelstein addressed the audience: "Independence Day 71 is a good opportunity to open old photo albums and recall who we are, where we came from and what is our story. Some nations are blessed with large territory, others have natural resources, others with large populations, and what do we have? We have a tale of a nation of slaves that became free and brought the world hope for freedom." Yuli Edelstein Ceremony at Mt Herzl, 2019 Adelstein lit the first of the 12 torches, followed by philanthropist Morris Kahn and Kfir Damari, who were behind the recent historic launch of SpaceIL's spacecraft, which ultimately failed to make a controlled landing on the moon. Jeff Finkelstein of the Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh lit a torch on behalf of the Jewish Diaspora. Jeff Finkelstein kindles the Diaspora torch Soldiers celebrating Kahn told the audience that following the craft's failed landing, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asked him to help fund a second attempt and he said he will consider it, "now I am responding, the answer is yes," he exclaimed. Morris Kahn and Kfir Damari Navy cadets Another torch was lit by Mari Nahmias, a Holocaust survivor and mother of eight who was also a foster mother to 52 children. The last torch was kindled by Rachel Frankel, Bat Galim Sha'er and Iris Yifrach, the mothers of Naftali Frankel, Gilad Sha'er and Eyal Yifrach who were kidnapped and murdered in the West Bank in 2014. Frankel, Sha'er and Yifrach kindle torch Despite a tradition that the prime minster does not attend the event, Netanyahu was present for the second year in a row, together with his wife Sara. However, he did not deliver a speech as he did in 2018, but a recorded salutation was broadcast. PM Netanyahu and his wife Sara (Photo: GPO) IDF band Tel Aviv municipality displaying Israel's colors Netanyahu invited 50 residents from the Gaza region, Holocaust survivor Shaul Lubowitz, the Fogel family which suffered a horrific terrorist attack and Moshe Holtzberg who was rescued by his nanny during the 2008 terrorist attack at the local Chabad House where he lost both his parents. The former Paraguayan president Horatio Cartes was also a guest. Just one week from today I will be gathering with the student body here at St. Joes to celebrate the end of the year awards day. There will be awards given for everything from Top Reader to Best Hair. As my first year of teaching is coming to a close, I am finding myself both relieved because I could use an afternoon nap and emotional because my class of eighth graders are moving on to the high school. I teach fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grades here at St. Joes, so for the most part I will be reuniting with my students after summer vacation. The eighth graders will be graduating from St. Joes Monday night and I have to admit, Im not emotionally ready to let them go. Theyre ready that I have no doubt about but I am not. These students show responsibility and poise in their work that mimics that of a seasoned high schooler, so I know theyll soar high as they join their new classmates. Ive struggled with this class at times. With my newness, it has been an adjustment for all of us, but overall we have made it across the finish line. I sure am going to miss these kiddos this I know for certain. The kids came up with the mission statement, which they read to the council, Folts explained. They have asked for a resolution so they can be an official city board. The mission statement is as follows: To encourage involvement of young people in community affairs, develop leadership abilities and skills, and create an awareness of their rights and responsibilities as citizens of York. As we serve we will strengthen our community and promote a spirit of pride in our city. The group will meet monthly during the school year, Folts said. The main purpose is that we want to see this community through their eyes, the eyes of the youth, Folts said. This is our way of saying heres our issue, how do you solve it, through their perspective. She said it will also be an opportunity for department representatives and city officials to hear what young people think is good about York, what could be improved and how they see the future. We want to see how to make York, their community, even better, Folts said. We are tapping into the under 18 group, which is a huge chunk of our population, to see what are Yorks strengths and weaknesses. The Labor Partys plan to restrict negative gearing on newly built properties could lure in spruikers to the market, according to Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA). When you financially incentivize people to buy a particular product, spruikers are not far behind because they see an opportunity to make a lot of cash very quickly, said PIPA Chairman Peter Koulizos. Koulizos is concerned that there is currently no legislation to protect consumers from dodgy operators pretending to be property investment experts. Koulizos said that industry research indicates that Labors policy is based on incorrect modelling when it comes to the number of investors who already buy new property as well as the revenue it believes it will raise. In addition, Koulizos said that financially bribing investors to purchase new property will create the ideal conditions for spruikers to flood the market. It will be like the pink batts fiasco all over again, which was another terrible Labor policy, he said. This time, it is an ill-conceived negative gearing proposal that is being rolled out too quickly and is likely to have financially catastrophic consequences for investors. Were talking about people investing hundreds of thousands of dollars into properties that are likely to be over-priced and inferior in every way possible. Last year, the federal court imposed record penalties of $18 million against We Buy Houses and its director, Rick Otton, for making misleading representations about how people could create wealth through buying and selling real estate, following action by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC). Koulizos said that the incident proved that urgent regulation of property investment advice is needed. If Labors absurd policy comes in, expect more investors to lose their life savings to corrupt charlatans who have no fear of the consequences because of the lack of regulation in the property investment advice space, he said. Many investors get into property investment for the money. But for Mathew Cosgrove, its about so much more including boosting his self-confidence, proving himself, and making his financial dreams come true. The desire to achieve something big in the world is a near-universal desire. Everyone wants to make their mark in some way. For Mathew Cosgrove, that way was property investment. Mathew made his first appearance in Your Investment Property magazine when he was awarded as a runner-up in the Investor of the Year awards for 2009. When he began investing, he was an environmental scientist with only $20,000 to start with. However, in the space of three years he was able to build a four-property portfolio. He was 25 at the time, and was hoping to retire within a decade. We caught up with Mathew a few years later in the midst of the mining boom. He was midway through developing the Nundah property hed purchased in 2008 and had just overcome some financing issues. He was also enjoying massive growth of his properties in the suburb of Moranbah, where rents had soared due to the start-up of several mining projects. He was also looking to mentor his two younger siblings, who were beginning to show an interest in property as well. I was in a job, and I wanted to break the cycle. The main reason I got into property investing was that I wanted to do more and have more self-worth, Mathew explains. In my mind, it was the best way to prove to myself that I could achieve things for myself and bring myself to the lifestyle I wanted to have in the future. My whole mantra is cash flow, says Mathew Crosgrove. Its key for any property investment AT A GLANCE Years investing: 11 Current number of properties: 12 Portfolio value: $5,800,000 Learning to thrive in a falling market Mathew has now officially celebrated 11 years as an investor, and today his $1.8m portfolio comprises a whopping eight residential properties, three pieces of land and one commercial property, all in Queensland. However, his choice of investing location became an issue when the mining industry went into a downturn. The property market did tumble severely it was way overinflated. Our property in Moranbah went up close to $900,000 in value, and then had a significant drop to around $300,000. Mathew didnt throw in the towel but worked to make the most of the situation. He had built a new property, and he kept a low profile in the property market for the next five years as he focused on maintaining his portfolio. Wed kind of maxed out our loans, so our properties had to grow first. My portfolio was adjusting, with Brisbane properties rising and regional properties going down in value. Its not easy to borrow money, because the lending criteria of banks have been stringent everywhere, he says. In the meantime, I was getting development and building approvals for a lot of my properties. Ive got a container house Im building at the back in Banyo; building underneath my house in Nundah into another unit, then I want to build five units on a block in Toowoomba. Now that the Queensland market is picking back up, Mathew is reaping the rewards of his patience. The different markets I owned property in went through cycles, but in every property cycle there is opportunity. When to capitalise on certain opportunities has been my biggest lesson, Mathew says. Big moves with big returns Mathew has also embarked on his first foray into commercial property. My whole mantra is cash flow its key for any property investment. You really cant develop or do anything without income, and commercial property offers the best sort of returns, he explains. His first commercial investment, in Maryborough in 2018, involved one large property with a potential eight titles. I bought it on contract with a friend of mine, and we strata-titled it before we settled, and sold three or four of the units to pay for the entire block, so it was ultimately a no-money-down deal. While Mathew looks back on this as a potentially risky move, it paid off for this investment, and he intends to explore commercial property further. My whole mantra is cash flow its key for any property investment. You really cant develop or do anything without income, and commercial property offers the best sort of returns, he explains. His first commercial investment, in Maryborough in 2018, involved one large property with a potential eight titles. I bought it on contract with a friend of mine, and we strata-titled it before we settled, and sold three or four of the units to pay for the entire block, so it was ultimately a no-money-down deal. While Mathew looks back on this as a potentially risky move, it paid off for this investment, and he intends to explore commercial property further. Portfolio timeline 2007 Mathew buys a property in Moranbah that he subdivides into two houses 2008 He makes his next purchase for under $450,000 in Nundah. The house is now worth over $560,000 One of Mathews earliest purchases of a house in Nundah is still paying off with a 5.4% yield 2009 He buys a house in Banyo, which now generates a strong yield of 5% 2010 Mathew snaps up another Banyo property it is expensive at $700,000, but in 2019 he benefi ts from a hefty yield of 7.4% 2011 His Moranbah properties, purchased in 2007, leap in value to a peak of $850,000$900,000 each four years later 2012 One year on, the Moranbah property market collapses and Mathews properties in the area slump in value to around $300,000 each Mathews houses in Moranbah have seen a dramatic drop in value since their peak in 2011, but together bring in rent of $920 per week today 2013 Mathew adds a pair of townhouses in Nundah to his portfolio, while the Queensland market continues to plummet due to the mining downturn 2018 Now a licensed buyers agent, Mathew makes a triumphant return to property buying with the purchase of properties and land blocks in Maryborough, Toowoomba and Tara. He also invests with a friend in his fi rst commercial property in Maryborough in a deal done with no money down It will involve strata-titling and developing different styles of buildings on some pieces of land I have, including SOHO (small office/home office) buildings where people can set up their businesses where they live. I believe there is a very large future in this, and I have some very good designs I cant wait to complete, Mathew says. As for that retirement goal? While he doesnt consider himself retired, Mathew has long since been able to leave his nine-to-fi ve job. He struck out on his own in 2014 to focus on property and enjoy his hobbies, such as playing in his band. I got my real estate licence and I do some work as a buyers agent. Im not working every day for 14 hours. Although some weeks Im busy, I always prioritise the stuff in life thats fun, because I might not be around tomorrow. Mathews younger siblings have also joined him as co-owners and co-shareholders in some of his properties. Theyre learning as they go; theyve let me take the reins, and understand that theres benefit for them in the end, he says. Mathews investment career and ability to power through a dificult market has rendered him knowledgeable enough to be able to advise others on property buying, but he still maintains a humble attitude to his experience. Im not sure if Ive inspired anyone, but if I have, thats awesome. [Property investment is] a big thing; its not easy, but once you throw yourself in and you go into survival mode, you have to get things done, he says. Im not a smart guy. I just see potential and try to learn as much as I can. Ive made lots of mistakes. Ive seen my properties go down 5060%, Ive seen them go up 80%. Its about balance and understanding risk. Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul answers questions from reporters at the customs, immigration and quarantine office in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, Wednesday, after ending his half-day visit to the inter-Korean liaison office in the North Korean border city of Gaeseong. This is the first time he has visited North Korean territory since taking office last month. Yonhap 'NK remains committed to fulfilling inter-Korean agreements' By Lee Min-hyung, Joint Press Corps PAJU, SEOUL Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul crossed the western border of the two Koreas Wednesday for a half-day trip to the inter-Korean liaison office in the North Korean border city of Gaeseong. He crossed the military demarcation line at about 8:30 a.m. via a land route before returning to the South around1 p.m. through the customs, immigration and quarantine office in Paju, Gyeonggi Province. Two South Korean officials, including Kim's secretary, accompanied him. This was his first visit to North Korea since taking office last month. North Korean officials welcomed Kim at the inter-Korean communication channel where both sides briefly exchanged views on relations between the two countries. After ending his trip to the North, Kim told reporters North Korea remains committed to fulfilling recent inter-Korean agreements and normalizing the operation of the office. "The North expressed its firm willingness to realize the inter-Korean joint agreements," Kim said. In a meeting with North Korean officials there, the unification chief said he offered to normalize the function of the office as soon as possible and the North accepted the proposal. Leaders from the Koreas held three summits last year and reached agreements outlining peace and military tension-easing near the border area. Kim said he spoke with the North's temporary chief of the office, but no ranking North Korean officials, such as his counterpart Ri Son-gwon, chairman of the North's Committee for Peaceful Reunification, greeted the South Korean minister. "I asked North Korean officials to send my regards to Ri and they said they would do so," Kim said. The unification ministry said Kim's trip to the North was aimed at encouraging South Korean officials residing there. For this reason, Kim did not engage in any in-depth negotiations on current inter-Korean affairs with North Korean officials. "Above all, I received briefings about the ongoing activities at the office and took a look at a variety of facilities used by the South Korean officials," Kim said. "The facilities include their accommodation and a restaurant. I was very proud of them for performing their work with a sense of duty, even if the working conditions were inadequate." Kim did not inspect other inter-Korean facilities, such as the Gaeseong Industrial Complex, during his trip. Operation of the inter-Korean industrial park is suspended despite calls for normalizing operations, in line with last year's peace momentum between Seoul and Pyongyang. Kim's North Korea visit came amid a murky outlook for inter-Korean relations. After the Hanoi summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ended in failure in February, the North has indicated a return to its past bellicose nature. Following the North's test-firing of several projectiles in the East Sea last week, skeptical voices have surfaced over whether the North is still willing to realize complete denuclearization. Despite the apparent show of force, the U.S. and the South have not reacted fiercely. The allies have instead reiterated their willingness to bring the North back to the dialogue table in the hope of achieving lasting peace on the peninsula. News Washington, DC - The United States Department of State will host the first annual U.S. Kenya Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) on May 7-8. President Donald J. Trump and President Uhuru M. Kenyatta established the Dialogue at the White House on August 27, 2018, when they elevated the bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership. As democracies committed to a rules-based order, the Strategic Partnership is grounded in shared values, mutual cooperation, and a common vision for free, open, and secure societies. On May 7, on the margins of the Strategic Dialogue, Deputy Secretary John J. Sullivan will meet with Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma and jointly sign the Strategic Dialogue Framework Agreement. On May 8, Under Secretary Hale will open the high-level meetings of the Strategic Dialogue, organized around four thematic pillars: economic prosperity, trade, and investment; defense cooperation; democracy, governance, and civilian security; and multilateral and regional issues. Following the meetings, Assistant Secretary Tibor Nagy and Cabinet Secretary Juma will hold a joint press availability at 12:00 p.m. on May 8. Latest News Houston, Texas - The Federal Trade Commission has taken legal action against the operator of a deceptive crowdfunding scheme who told consumers he was raising money to develop a high-tech backpack and other products, but failed to deliver any of the products and instead used much of the funds for himself. In its complaint, the FTC alleges that Douglas Monahan, operating through his company, iBackPack of Texas, LLC, raised more than $800,000 from consumers through four crowdfunding campaigns, falsely claiming the funds would be used to develop a handful of products. This included an iBackPack that would incorporate batteries for charging laptops and phones, cables and a Bluetooth speaker. If you raise money by crowdfunding, you dont have to guarantee that your idea will work, said Andrew Smith, Director of the FTCs Bureau of Consumer Protection. But you do have to use the money to work on your ideaor expect to hear from the FTC. According to the FTCs complaint, Monahan first sought funding in 2015 for the iBackPack through the crowdfunding site Indiegogo, saying contributions would go to develop, produce, and distribute the product by March 2016. The campaign raised more than $720,000 by November 2016, according to the complaint. Despite missing the delivery date for the iBackPack, Monahan started a second crowdfunding campaign in March 2016 via Kickstarter to produce and distribute the iBackPack 2.0, an updated version of the still-unproduced original iBackPack, according to the complaint. This campaign ended in April 2016 after raising more than $76,000 without ever delivering the promised product. During the same time period, Monahan started two additional crowdfunding campaigns on Indiegogo, which raised a total of about $11,000, according to the complaint. One campaign claimed it was raising funds to produce and distribute the MOJO, a shoulder bag that incorporated batteries, cables and other features. The other campaign claimed to be raising money to produce and distribute the POW Smart Cable, a magnetic USB cable system with various technological features. Monahan made a number of false statements to consumers about the status of products as well as to the crowdfunding sites to keep from being kicked off their platforms. These include announcing in August 2016 that the POW Cables were on their way here or were done/finished/shipped over with or would be received within six weeks. Despite repeated assurances, Monahan did not use the contributions received from the crowdfunding campaigns for the promised products, the FTC alleged. Instead, he spent most of the money on personal expenses and marketing efforts to try to raise additional funds, according to the complaint. Hundreds of consumers complained on the crowdfunding platforms about Monahan and his companys failure to provide the promised products and about threats they received from Monahan after they contacted him with their concerns. The Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint was 5-0. The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Galveston Division. The State of Texas today also filed suit against iBackPack of Texas, LLC and Monahan. Latest News Washington, DC - Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Grant of Clemency (Full Pardon) for former Army First Lieutenant Michael Behenna of Oklahoma. In 2009, a military court sentenced Mr. Behenna to 25 years in prison for unpremeditated murder in a combat zone. After judgment, however, the U.S. Armys highest appellate court noted concern about how the trial court had handled Mr. Behennas claim of self-defense. Additionally, the Army Clemency and Parole Board reduced his sentence to 15 years and paroled him as soon as he was eligible in 2014just 5 years into his sentence. Upon his release, dozens of Patriot Guard motorcycle riders met Mr. Behenna to escort him back to his home in Oklahoma. Mr. Behennas case has attracted broad support from the military, Oklahoma elected officials, and the public. Thirty-seven generals and admirals, along with a former Inspector General of the Department of Defense, signed a brief in support of Mr. Behennas self-defense claim. Numerous members of the Oklahoma congressional delegation, Oklahomas then-Governor Mary Fallin, and current Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter have also expressed support for Mr. Behenna. Further, while serving his sentence, Mr. Behenna was a model prisoner. In light of these facts, Mr. Behenna is entirely deserving of this Grant of Executive Clemency. Latest News Washington, DC - President Trump at the National Day of Prayer Dinner: THE PRESIDENT: It is my pleasure to welcome you very special friends to the White House for a dinner before the National Day of Prayer. We look forward to that tomorrow. I want to thank our magnificent First Lady, Melania, for hosting this beautiful event. Thank you. (Applause.) And we are also very honored to have with us our great Vice President, Mike Pence. Mike? Mike, how are you? (Applause.) And Second Lady Karen Pence, who works so hard and does such a great job. Thank you, Karen. (Applause.) Also thanks to Ben Carson and Secretary Sonny Perdue for being with us. Youre always with us and we appreciate it very much. Thank you. Thank you both very much. (Applause.) And very special were proudly joined by leaders representing many of the worlds great faiths: Christians, Muslims, Jews, Sikhs, Hindus. Tonight, we break bread together, united by our love of God, and we renew our resolve to protect the sacred freedom of religion. All of us. (Applause.) In recent weeks, people of faith around the world have faced terrible hardship. All of us in this room send our love and prayers to the Jewish Americans wounded at the Chabad of Poway shooting in California. So tragic. So horrible. And our hearts break for the life of Lori Gilbert-Kaye, who was so wickedly taken from us. We mourn for the Christians murdered in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, and grieve for the Muslims murdered at their mosques in New Zealand. Here at home, we also remember the three historically black churches burned recently in Louisiana, and the horrific shooting last year at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. Violence and terrorism against people of all faiths must end and it must end now. (Applause.) All civilized nations must join together in this effort. In our own country, we must always protect the religious liberty enshrined in our Constitution and in our lives in our lives. Its so important for us all. Im thrilled to report that tomorrow the Senate will confirm the 100th federal judge to the court system. Under my administration, were getting to a level where were going to be breaking records, with respect to the judiciary which means a lot for the people in this room because you were treated very poorly, but now youre (applause) with time, youll see what happens. And well have close to 145 very shortly. One hundred and forty-five federal judges, including two great Supreme Court judges and Justices of the Supreme Court. So I think its something that was long overdue. And I think were going to be treated very, very fairly. Very important. During this holy season, when Christians celebrate Easter, Jews mark the Passover, and Muslims prepare for Ramadan, were reminded of how blessed we are to inherit the traditions of freedom and religious tolerance that have defined America from the beginning. When we embrace the fullness of our faiths, we become better friends, better neighbors, better citizens, and better people. America is forever. We will be a nation that believes forever. And we certainly believe, more than anyone, the power of prayer the most powerful thing there is. From our earliest history, weve always been people of faith. Our Declaration of Independence proclaims that our rights are bestowed on us by our Creator. The First Continental Congress began with a prayer. Our first President, George Washington, declared a national day of thanksgiving to our Father in Heaven. Each time we pledge allegiance to our flag, we say that we are one Nation under God. And for 67 years, Presidents have proclaimed a National Day of Prayer. Sixty-seven years. Half a mile from where we are gathered this evening stands the Washington Monument. On the very top of the tallest structure in our nations capital, facing the rising sun each morning, two Latin words are prescribed and inscribed. Its called, Praise be to God. Very important. And, by the way, youre seeing it more and more. Youre seeing people prouder and prouder. Its happening. We remember (applause) remember when we started our campaign? I was saying, Were going to be saying Merry Christmas again. Now everyone is very proud to be saying Merry Christmas again. (Laughter.) There was a time when we went shopping and you wouldnt see Merry Christmas on the stores. Youd see a red wall and it wouldnt say that; it would say Happy Holidays or something, but it wouldnt say Merry Christmas. Were back to saying Merry Christmas again in this country. And thats something that I consider a great achievement because it really spells out whats happening. (Applause.) So tonight, we praise God for our nation. We give thanks for His providence. We ask Him to watch over and protect the lives of religious believers, and the people of goodwill all over the world, and the people in this room, who are so important to so many different religions. And we pray that He will continue to bless America with faith, freedom, and peace. So thank you for coming to the White House. It is a great honor for Melania and myself to be with you. Great for Mike and Karen, and all of the wonderful representatives of our country. And youre the representatives of our faiths. And thank you very much. Very, very important day. And were going to have something incredibly successful tomorrow. And we look forward to being with you. Thank you all for being here. Thank you very much. (Applause.) Thank you. By Park Ji-won Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon has proposed Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno send a business delegation to South Korea to discuss ways to expand trade and investment between the two countries. While visiting Ecuador, Lee met President Moreno, Tuesday, and asked him to send a delegation consisting of government officials and businesspeople to South Korea, Lee's office said Wednesday. President Moreno was quoted as saying that he will push ahead with forming the delegation while asking Lee to share the South's information and communications technologies. The suggestion was made during his first official visit to the country, as the first prime minister to do so in the two countries' history of diplomatic relations dating back to 1962. Lee embarked on his multi-stop trip to Kuwait, Colombia and Ecuador on April 30 as part of the government's efforts to diversify the country's diplomatic portfolio. Lee also said in a press release that he promised to invest $9 million in Ecuador to build an innovation center in Quito, the capital city of the nation, while pushing to hold an art exhibition of Oswaldo Guayasamin in Seoul when the delegation visits the Korean capital. Lee, meanwhile, urged support from Ecuador for the South's effort to create peace on the Korean Peninsula. Moreno reportedly expressed support for South Korea's push for peace with North Korea. In an expanded meeting between Lee and Vice President Otto Sonnenholzner, the two countries agreed to boost cooperation in several business areas such as transportation infrastructure and renewable energy. Lee also asked for Ecuador's support for Korea Airports Corporation, the state-run airport operator, in securing a $200 million order to operate an airport in Manta. Today A mix of clouds and sun early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. High near 65F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Tonight Mainly cloudy. Low 51F. Winds light and variable. Tomorrow A few clouds early, otherwise mostly sunny. High 68F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. 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The order was issued on Tuesday night. A woman was allegedly raped by five men in front of her husband in Alwar district on April 26.The assailants also filmed the crime and uploaded the video on social media. "The SP has been removed and put under the Awaiting Posting Order status till further orders," Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Rajeeva Swarup said. The SHO of the Thanagazi police station has already been suspended. In a related development, the state government has released an interim relief Rs 4.12 lakh for the victim as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The incident took place when the woman was travelling on a motorcycle with her husband. The accused stopped them on the Thanagazi-Alwar bypass and dragged the couple to an isolated area, where they allegedly raped the woman and threatened her husband with dire consequences, police said. An FIR was lodged on May 2 under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the SC/ST Act, police said. Denver [USA]: One student died and seven more critically injured in a shooting at a school in suburban Denver in US state of Colorado on Tuesday. Two male suspects - an adult and a juvenile - have been taken into custody, authorities said. The shooting started around 2 pm in STEM School Highlands Ranch which has over 1,800 students, said reports. The shooters walked inside premises and "got deep inside the school," engaging students in two separate locations, Sheriff Spurlock said at a media brief, reported CNN. "7 possibly 8 students have been injured. Two shooters in custody. SWAT still clearing school. Students being bused to Northridge Rec Center. Parents please have patience with reunification process," initially tweeted the Douglas County (DC) Sheriff`s Office. Critically injured students were shifted to area hospitals. Authorities later confirmed that an 18-year-old student died in the shooting: "It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in todays #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the student is stating its an 18 year old male." It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in todays #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the student is stating its an 18 year old male. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 8, 2019 "Sheriff says suspects 1 adult male, 1 juv male in custody. No other suspects. 8 students injured, several critical, area hospitals. No staff or officers injured. Working with DA to get search warrants for suspect car at school and suspects' homes. Sheriff states suspects are students of STEM and were confronted by DCSO right away. This quick response helped save lives, says Spurlock. Will update here when have more info to release," DC Sheriff`s Office further tweeted. #stemshooting Sheriff says suspects 1 adult male, 1 juv male in custody. No other suspects. 8 students injured, several critical, area hospitals. No staff or officers injured. Working with DA to get search warrants for suspect car at school and suspects' homes. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 7, 2019 The process of uniting students with parents are underway, added authorities. "If you are a host family of foreign exchange student from STEM, please respond to Target Store on Sgt John Stiles Bld in Highlands Ranch to reunify with your student," DC Sheriff`s Office said. UK's Westminster Court on Wednesday rejected yet another bail application filed by lawyers of Nirav Modi for the release of the fugitive diamond merchant. Nirav has been lodged in Wandsworth prison, considered one of Britain's most notorious, since he was arrested by Scotland Yard officers from a central London bank branch on March 19. In close to two months, Nirav - through his lawyers - has moved bail application four times now but these have been shot down each time. On Wednesday, the judge said that it appeared that Nirav's brother had tried to interfere with witnesses and added that her concern is his lack of ties to the UK and the amount 'squirrelled' away by him personally. The bail application was rejected despite Nirav's lawyers' repeated appeals. Arguing on behalf of Indian authorities, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has said that Nirav posed a significant flight risk and was also likely to further intimidate witnesses and destroy evidence if he were released. The prime accused in the 2 billion (Rs 13,500 crore) PNB fraud case, 48-year-old Nirav will remain at the Wandsworth prison. The next hearing in the case will be 28 days from Wednesday. Asiatic black bear has been found living in the demilitarized zone (DMZ) between the two Koreas, the government confirmed Wednesday. / Courtesy of Ministry of Environment By Kim Jae-heun An Asiatic black bear has been found living in the demilitarized zone (DMZ) between the two Koreas, the government confirmed Wednesday. The Ministry of Environment and the National Institute of Ecology said they captured a picture of the bear, classified as level-one endangered species, through cameras installed in the DMZ. The institute has installed 92 cameras there since 2014 to conduct ecological research in the area, and one Asiatic black bear was spotted in the eastern part of the zone last October. The military sent the picture to the institute in March after reviewing security issues. "So far there had only been an eyewitness account from a soldier that he saw the animal and unclear footage of what seemed to be an Asiatic black bear," a ministry official said. "But this is the first time we have got confirmation." The ministry said it was unlikely the bear came from outside the DMZ considering the barbed-wire fences installed along both sides of the border. "We presume the bear found in a DMZ is the offspring of a mating couple that have been possibly living there for some time," the official said. The bear is estimated to be eight to nine months old and weigh between 25 kilograms and 35 kilograms. The institute believes the bear's parents are also living in the DMZ. The ministry and the institute have been working to restore the Asiatic black bear species to Korea. In 2001, they released four onto Mount Jiri and Mount Sudo in South and North Gyeongsang provinces. There number have now grown to 61. There are also 18 bears in the custody of the Korea National Park Service. It is estimated 109 endangered species are living in the DMZ, the buffer area between the two Koreas' borders that has remained intact for nearly 70 years. New Delhi: The Islamic holy month of Ramzan has begun and it holds a great significance for Muslims across the globe. The sighting of the moon ushers the holy month of Ramzan or Ramadan. During this holy month, Muslims observe fast (Rozas) marking it as a gesture to revere the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad according to Islamic belief. According to many beliefs, this annual observance is regarded as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The month lasts for about 2930 days (usually a month) based on the visual sighting of the crescent moon, according to numerous biographical accounts compiled in the hadiths. As per Hamariweb.com, here are the Sehr and Iftar timings in various cities in India during the Ramzan or Ramadan: RAMADAN CALENDAR 2019 - NEW DELHI RAMADAN DATE SEHR IFTAR 1 Mon 06 May 04:10 AM 7:00 PM 2 Tue 07 May 04:09 AM 7:01 PM 3 Wed 08 May 04:08 AM 7:01 PM 4 Thu 09 May 04:07 AM 7:02 PM 5 Fri 10 May 04:06 AM 7:03 PM 6 Sat 11 May 04:05 AM 7:03 PM 7 Sun 12 May 04:04 AM 7:04 PM 8 Mon 13 May 04:03 AM 7:04 PM 9 Tue 14 May 04:02 AM 7:05 PM 10 Wed 15 May 04:01 AM 7:06 PM 11 Thu 16 May 04:00 AM 7:06 PM 12 Fri 17 May 04:00 AM 7:07 PM 13 Sat 18 May 03:59 AM 7:07 PM 14 Sun 19 May 03:58 AM 7:08 PM 15 Mon 20 May 03:57 AM 7:09 PM 16 Tue 21 May 03:57 AM 7:09 PM 17 Wed 22 May 03:56 AM 7:10 PM 18 Thu 23 May 03:55 AM 7:10 PM 19 Fri 24 May 03:55 AM 7:11 PM 20 Sat 25 May 03:54 AM 7:11 PM 21 Sun 26 May 03:53 AM 7:12 PM 22 Mon 27 May 03:53 AM 7:13 PM 23 Tue 28 May 03:52 AM 7:13 PM 24 Wed 29 May 03:52 AM 7:14 PM 25 Thu 30 May 03:51 AM 7:14 PM 26 Fri 31 May 03:51 AM 7:15 PM 27 Sat 01 June 03:51 AM 7:15 PM 28 Sun 02 June 03:50 AM 7:16 PM 29 Mon 03 June 03:50 AM 7:16 PM 30 Tue 04 June 03:49 AM 7:17 PM RAMADAN CALENDAR 2019 - MUMBAI RAMADAN DATE SEHR IFTAR 1 Mon 06 May 04:50 AM 7:03 PM 2 Tue 07 May 04:49 AM 7:04 PM 3 Wed 08 May 04:48 AM 7:04 PM 4 Thu 09 May 04:48 AM 7:05 PM 5 Fri 10 May 04:47 AM 7:05 PM 6 Sat 11 May 04:46 AM 7:05 PM 7 Sun 12 May 04:46 AM 7:06 PM 8 Mon 13 May 04:45 AM 7:06 PM 9 Tue 14 May 04:45 AM 7:06 PM 10 Wed 15 May 04:44 AM 7:07 PM 11 Thu 16 May 04:44 AM 7:07 PM 12 Fri 17 May 04:43 AM 7:08 PM 13 Sat 18 May 04:43 AM 7:08 PM 14 Sun 19 May 04:42 AM 7:08 PM 15 Mon 20 May 04:42 AM 7:09 PM 16 Tue 21 May 04:41 AM 7:09 PM 17 Wed 22 May 04:41 AM 7:10 PM 18 Thu 23 May 04:40 AM 7:10 PM 19 Fri 24 May 04:40 AM 7:10 PM 20 Sat 25 May 04:40 AM 7:11 PM 21 Sun 26 May 04:39 AM 7:11 PM 22 Mon 27 May 04:39 AM 7:11 PM 23 Tue 28 May 04:39 AM 7:12 PM 24 Wed 29 May 04:38 AM 7:12 PM 25 Thu 30 May 04:38 AM 7:13 PM 26 Fri 31 May 04:38 AM 7:13 PM 27 Sat 01 June 04:38 AM 7:13 PM 28 Sun 02 June 04:38 AM 7:14 PM 29 Mon 03 June 04:37 AM 7:14 PM 30 Tue 04 June 04:37 AM 7:14 PM RAMADAN CALENDAR 2019 - AHMEDABAD RAMADAN DATE SEHR IFTAR 1 Mon 06 May 04:42 AM 7:10 PM 2 Tue 07 May 04:41 AM 7:10 PM 3 Wed 08 May 04:40 AM 7:11 PM 4 Thu 09 May 04:39 AM 7:11 PM 5 Fri 10 May 04:39 AM 7:12 PM 6 Sat 11 May 04:38 AM 7:12 PM 7 Sun 12 May 04:37 AM 7:13 PM 8 Mon 13 May 04:37 AM 7:13 PM 9 Tue 14 May 04:36 AM 7:14 PM 10 Wed 15 May 04:35 AM 7:14 PM 11 Thu 16 May 04:35 AM 7:15 PM 12 Fri 17 May 04:34 AM 7:15 PM 13 Sat 18 May 04:33 AM 7:16 PM 14 Sun 19 May 04:33 AM 7:16 PM 15 Mon 20 May 04:32 AM 7:17 PM 16 Tue 21 May 04:32 AM 7:17 PM 17 Wed 22 May 04:31 AM 7:17 PM 18 Thu 23 May 04:31 AM 7:18 PM 19 Fri 24 May 04:30 AM 7:18 PM 20 Sat 25 May 04:30 AM 7:19 PM 21 Sun 26 May 04:29 AM 7:19 PM 22 Mon 27 May 04:29 AM 7:20 PM 23 Tue 28 May 04:29 AM 7:20 PM 24 Wed 29 May 04:28 AM 7:21 PM 25 Thu 30 May 04:28 AM 7:21 PM 26 Fri 31 May 04:28 AM 7:22 PM 27 Sat 01 June 04:27 AM 7:22 PM 28 Sun 02 June 04:27 AM 7:22 PM 29 Mon 03 June 04:27 AM 7:23 PM 30 Tue 04 June 04:27 AM 7:23 PM RAMADAN CALENDAR 2019 - GURGAON RAMADAN DATE SEHR IFTAR 1 Mon 06 May 04:11 AM 7:01 PM 2 Tue 07 May 04:10 AM 7:01 PM 3 Wed 08 May 04:09 AM 7:02 PM 4 Thu 09 May 04:08 AM 7:02 PM 5 Fri 10 May 04:07 AM 7:03 PM 6 Sat 11 May 04:06 AM 7:04 PM 7 Sun 12 May 04:05 AM 7:04 PM 8 Mon 13 May 04:04 AM 7:05 PM 9 Tue 14 May 04:03 AM 7:05 PM 10 Wed 15 May 04:02 AM 7:06 PM 11 Thu 16 May 04:01 AM 7:07 PM 12 Fri 17 May 04:01 AM 7:07 PM 13 Sat 18 May 04:00 AM 7:08 PM 14 Sun 19 May 03:59 AM 7:08 PM 15 Mon 20 May 03:58 AM 7:09 PM 16 Tue 21 May 03:58 AM 7:10 PM 17 Wed 22 May 03:57 AM 7:10 PM 18 Thu 23 May 03:56 AM 7:11 PM 19 Fri 24 May 03:56 AM 7:11 PM 20 Sat 25 May 03:55 AM 7:12 PM 21 Sun 26 May 03:55 AM 7:12 PM 22 Mon 27 May 03:54 AM 7:13 PM 23 Tue 28 May 03:54 AM 7:14 PM 24 Wed 29 May 03:53 AM 7:14 PM 25 Thu 30 May 03:53 AM 7:15 PM 26 Fri 31 May 03:52 AM 7:15 PM 27 Sat 01 June 03:52 AM 7:16 PM 28 Sun 02 June 03:51 AM 7:16 PM 29 Mon 03 June 03:51 AM 7:17 PM 30 Tue 04 June 03:51 AM 7:17 PM Ramadan word has Arabic root ramida or ar-ramad, which means scorching heat or dryness. It is believed that the holy book of Quran was written during this month. Thus, the people practise fasting in this month to purify their souls and seek forgiveness from the Almighty Allah. During the Rozas (fasting) all those who are fasting at the daytime are allowed to eat only after sunset. However, some are given the relaxation of not keeping the fast the entire day. People who suffer from any illness, or those who are travelling, elderly people, pregnant women and those going through their menstrual cycle are barred from keeping the Roza or fast. On the day of Eid, Muslims celebrate the month-long festival in a grand way by wearing new clothes, offering Namaz, eating together after sunset and greeting 'Ramazan Mubarak' to everyone they meet. In a major blow to terrorists in northeastern India, the Army in a joint operation with the Assam police apprehended a Kamtapur Liberation Organisation (KLO) terrorist in Tinsukia. The Eastern Command of the Army tweeted that the terrorist was arrested on May 6 (Monday) and several items recovered from him. Live TV The person, along with the recovered items, has been handed over to the police for further investigation. In a tweet, the Eastern Command said, "#NEOps #IndianArmy unit in a joint operation with police apprehended a SS Sgt Maj, KLO cadre from Tinsukia, Assam on 06 May. The individual along with recovered items has been handed over to police for further investigation." #NEOps #IndianArmy unit in a joint operation with police apprehended a SS Sgt Maj, KLO cadre from Tinsukia, Assam on 06 May. The individual along with recovered items has been handed over to police for further investigation @adgpi @SpokespersonMoD pic.twitter.com/ReYtNh4yhK EasternCommand_IA (@easterncomd) May 8, 2019 The KLO is a terrorist organisation who want a separate Kamtapur nation comprising of ten districts. Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft AN-32 overran runway 27 while departing from Mumbai Airport on Tuesday. Confirming the incident, airport authorities said, "We confirm, departing Air force Aircraft had runway excursion at 2339 hours at RWY 27." Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-32 overran runway 27 while departing from Mumbai Airport; Airport authorities say, "We confirm, departing Air force Aircraft had runway excursion at 2339 hours at RWY 27." ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 The authorities said that IAF aircraft AN-32 was departing for Yelahanka Air Force near Bengaluru, Karnataka when the incident happened. No one got injured in the incident. Runway 27 at Mumbai Airport which was overan by IAF aircraft AN-32 is currently shut down for operations. "Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft AN-32 was departing for Yelahanka Air Force near Bengaluru, Karnataka. No injuries reported. Runway 27 at Mumbai Airport which it overran isn't available for operations," ANI reported. Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft AN-32 was departing for Yelahanka Air Force near Bengaluru, Karnataka. No injuries reported. Runway 27 at Mumbai Airport which it overran isn't available for operations https://t.co/71isOmOXmR ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 The incident occurred around 11.39 p.m. when the IAF plane was preparing to takeoff from the main runway at Chattrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Defence Ministry officials told IANS that the IAF aircraft had to abandon take off in view of a technical issue and overshot the runway. "The aircraft and the crew are safe. A recovery team has arrived in Mumbai and the aircraft will be cleared shortly," the officials said. A Gentlemen Cadet (GC) of Indian Military Academy (IMA) Amul Rawal died on Tuesday after falling into a gorge in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, during a routine night navigation exercise in the mountains. IMA released a statement saying that Rawal sustained a serious injury in the head and was given medical attention at the spot. Rawal was then rushed to Military Hospital in Dehradun where doctors declared him brought dead on arrival. Amul Rawal sustained a head injury and was given immediate medical attention on the spot. He was rushed in an ambulance to Military Hospital, Dehradun but was declared brought dead on arrival, said IMA. According to IMA, this exercise is conducted every year for Gentlemen Cadets. Rawal, an ex-NDA cadet, had joined IMA in January 2019 after undergoing training at National Defence Academy for three years. Rawal belonged to 145 IMA course and had passed out of the 135 NDA course. He was to be commissioned in December 2019. Rawal was from Karnal in Haryana. The IMA has ordered a procedural court of inquiry in the matter. A trainee on admission to the IMA is referred to as a Gentleman Cadet (GC) because the academy expects that its graduates after receiving complete training will uphold the highest moral and ethical values. The freshman GCs who come to IMA are from diverse backgrounds but the academy plays an important role in helping them develop a common bind. The IMA is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, about 8 km west of Dehradun. The campus is on National Highway 72 and the academy is spread over an area of 1,400 acres (5.7 sqkm). NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to buy an advanced version of the Spice-2000 bomb, which can be used to reduce enemy buildings and bunkers to rubbles in no time. It is to be noted that Spice-2000 bomb was used by IAF's Mirage-2000 fighter jets in the airstrikes on Jaish-e-Mohammad terror camp at Balakot in Pakistan. However, the penetrator version of Spice-2000 bombs was used by the IAF in the Balakot airstrikes which made holes in the concrete rooftops of the buildings in the Jaish camp but did not destroy the buildings. The bombs, however, exploded inside the building killing those who were present inside the building. "The IAF is now planning to acquire the bunker buster or the building destroyer version with Mark 84 warhead which can decimate targeted buildings," government sources told ANI. Live TV It is expected that the acquisition of an advanced version of Spice-2000 would be done through the emergency powers granted to the three services. The emergency powers give the three services authority to buy any equipment of their choice worth up to Rs 300 crore. Sources said that the Army has decided to use this power to buy Spike anti-tank guided missiles deployment to tackle any possible armoured threat posed by the enemy troops. The IAF is planning to acquire an advanced version of Spice-2000 bomb from Israel which is one of the main weapon and ammunition supplier of the Air Force. A SPICE bomb has a standoff range of 60 kilometres and approaches the target as its unique scene-matching algorithm compares the electro-optical image received in real-time via the weapon seeker with mission reference data stored in the weapon computer memory and adjusts the flight path accordingly. SPICE 2000 consists of an add-on kit for warheads such as the MK-84, BLU-109, APW and RAP-2000. The IAF had conducted the Balakot airstrikes on February 27 in response to the terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama which resulted in the martyrdom of 40 CRPF personnel. New Delhi: Pakistan's Imran Khan government has been working overtime to paint a false narrative in the aftermath of India's strike on terror launch pads in Balakot but an Italian journalist with considerable experience in reporting on Pakistan has confirmed that Indian air strikes in Balakot did indeed kill 130 to 170 terrorists there. The journalist Francesca Marino, who specialises in South Asia reporting, has filed a report in which she says evidence proves the death of at least 130 Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists in the air strikes carried out by IAF in Balakot, in response to the dastardly Pulwama attacks. Speaking to WION, Marino exposed the cover-up done by Pakistan in the aftermath of the strikes. "130 to 170 died in the air strikes. Others are still undergoing treatment by Pakistani Army doctors and are not in any hospital. Details have been emerging all this time, slowly, because my source there (in Pakistan) is very scared. The operation (the coverup after Balakot strikes by IAF) has been orchestrated by the Pakistani Army and JeM. Everything has been cleared," she said. "Of course, the Pakistani Army spokesperson has said there is no JeM in Pakistan but I have photos of actual signboards taken in camps and compared them to photos after the air strike. Everything is cleared, there is no track, no footprint of JeM." Italian journalist @francescam63 speaks to WION about the fresh details that have emerged after the #BalakotAirStrike pic.twitter.com/ti0HRa7e5C WION (@WIONews) May 8, 2019 Marino further said that she has published photos of two JeM terrorists in the camp from before the air strikes in Balakot. She also punctured Pakistan's claims of having taken journalists to the site of the strikes. "A group of selected journalists have been taken there (Balakot), with the army and surrounded by the army. They have been shown a madrasa which has clearly been whitewashed. The camp spreads over two kilometres and these journalists were not taken to the part which was hit," she said. "They were told to quickly ask a few questions to children at the madrasa. Who builds a madrasa for children so far from villages?" Stating that locals in the area are prohibited from venturing anywhere near the camp that was targeted by IAF, Marino has also said that JeM took upon the task of silencing family members of the slain terrorists in the immediate aftermath of the February 26 strikes. "They have been going to families of those who were killed and handing out cash, and of course, threatening them. JeM members have also been heard telling families that some sort of revenge will come up." These startling revelations by Marino, an award-winning journalist, come as a massive blow to Pakistan which has repeatedly tried to portray itself as a victim of terrorism while actually being a safe haven for it. The neutrality of Marino and her reporting would also be a shot in the arm for IAF which stands vindicated in the face of malicious and false propaganda by Pakistan in relation to Balakot. New Delhi: Full emergency was declared at the Delhi airport on Wednesday after a Singapore Airlines plane - flight No. SG 406 - landed with a nosewheel issue. The Delhi-bound plane with 228 on board developed a nosewheel snag but was able to make a safe landing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport's runway No. 28. A full emergency had been declared for the plane to ensure the safety of passengers and crew in case something went wrong during the landing procedure. After all the passengers and crew members had safely disembarked, the plane was towed to a parking spot where the issue will be inspected. The nosewheel basically refers to the wheel under the front of the plane and is crucial in supporting the weight of the aircraft. The role of a nosewheel is especially crucial during landing. A number of aviation tragedies have occurred around the world due to problems with the nosewheel. In most of these cases, the nosewheel either remained off center or got jammed while retracting or before touch down. During inspection before flight, the nosewheel - as well as back wheels - are especially looked into for possible technical or mechanical errors. Israel's ambassador to India Ron Malka on Wednesday said that the ties between Isreal and India will continue in an upward trajectory whoever forms the government in the Centre as the partnership is between the two nations and not parties or individuals. Live TV Speaking on the ties Malka said, "There has been remarkable progress in the relationship between the two countries. We are going to grow, we are going to keep this momentum going, enhance it further and deepen it. We share a very big and wide vision, it doesn't matter, what will be the new set up of the government because the connection and partnership between India and Israel are between nations, not between parties and individuals." On asking about the postponement of Isreali PM Netanyahu's visit to India, Malka replied, "Hopefully in the near future we will see some kind of visit. I'm not sure when will it happen as it is a matter of schedule. The new govt of Israel, especially the ministers, are telling me they want to come here. The PM wanted to come and will surely come. Hopefully, we will see many visits, because they will push forward the relationships and we want to see it happen." Speaking on terrorism, Malka said, "We share the same problems of terrorism. We will fight terrorism. It's a disease for all the world, not just India and Isreal. Its a disease and the world have to unite and fight together." An accused, involved in the killing of seven people in Jammu and Kashmir, has been arrested after 23 years, confirmed the police on Wednesday. The accused identified as Wali Mohammad Mir was arrested by the state police on Tuesday from Barwala Kangan village in Ganderbal district. Live TV Wali Mohammad Mir was an active member of Ikhwan. The Ikhwan was a group of surrendered Kashmiri terrorists who worked for the government in the 1990s in Jammu and Kashmir. A police spokesman confirmed that Wali Mohammad Mir, son of Mohammad Maqsood Mir, was arrested by a police team of the Sumbal Police Station. He is a resident of the Saderkote Bala village in Bandipora district. According to the police, the victims--five men and two women--were residents of Saderkote Bala village. The murders took place on October 5, 1996, when seven members of three families were killed by the Ikhwan members. Several warrants were issued by the Bandipora district and sessions judges but Wali Mohammad Mir managed to hide from the law for over two decades. According to the public prosecutor Shafiq, "It was a massacre that took place on October 5. Today with the arrest the first step has been taken." Several reactions were received regarding the arrest. Former IAS officer-turned-politician Shah Faisal said that Jammu and Kashmir will get a sense of justice when all state and non-state actors who committed human rights violations are punished. "Evading arrest for 23 years, Wali Mir of Rashid Billa gang, a dreaded renegade wanted in 7 murders, was finally arrested by Bandipora police headed by Rahul Malik IPS. Kashmir will get a sense of justice when all state and non-state actors who committed HR violations are punished," he tweeted. Unidentified terrorists on Wednesday afternoon opened fire on two civilians Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. The incident took place at Zainpora village in the district. The duo has been rushed to the hospital for treatment. Live TV They are said to be in critical condition. The injured civilians have been identified as Muzaffar Ahmad and Irfan Ahmad. Both of them are said to be pharmacists. The area has been cordoned off and a search operation launched. This is a developing story. More details are awaited. By Choe Chong-dae Yanagi Muneyoshi (1889-1961) was a remarkable Japanese philosopher, founding father of a folk-art movement and art critic. Inspired by the unique beauty of Joseon Kingdom white porcelain that was generally considered "plain" and had previously attracted little admiration in Japan, Yanagi became an enthusiast of Korean cultural art in 1914. His particular interest in Korean culture led him to first visit Korea in 1916. While in Korea, he immersed himself in studying Korean history and culture. He collected a wide range of artifacts such as woodwork, lacquerware, pottery and textiles, which illustrated Korea's splendid cultural heritage. Thereafter, he established the Korean Folk Arts Museum within Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul in 1924. In 1936 he founded the Japan Folk Crafts Museum in Komaba, Tokyo, which is still in existence. Whenever he explored cultural remains in Korea, he was deeply concerned about unauthorized excavations, looting and the trade of stolen artifacts which was rampant during Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule. He felt as if he were a Korean art historian, and claimed frequently that artistic beauty transcends borders. Because of his wide knowledge of the aesthetics of traditional Korean cultural artifacts, Yanagi was often portrayed as "a Japanese who loved Joseon cultural art more enthusiastically than the Joseon people" themselves. Remarkably, the article Yanagi wrote in 1922 in opposition to the Japanese Governor General of Korea's plan to demolish Gwanghwamun, titled "In Defense of Korea Structure Facing Demolition," evoked responses in both Japan and Korea. Due to Japan's tight colonial control over Korea, no one dared speak out against Japanese actions. Yanagi demonstrated that Japan's ancient art owed much to superior Korean influences. However, there were many Japanese people who criticized him for spotlighting the "relatively unsophisticated" art of the Korean cultural heritage. They demanded he put down Korea in accordance with Japanese imperialist policy. Regardless of the political undertones, though, it is undeniable that Yanagi has left a significant legacy of modern art and culture discussion in Korea. Furthermore, in the aftermath of the 1919 March 1 Independence Movement against Japanese colonial rule, Yanagi and other intellectuals joined in strenuously objecting to Japan's annexation of Korea. He rued, "seeing that no one was publicly defending the unfortunate Koreans." His hard-hitting article criticizing Japanese colonization of Korea, titled "Sympathy for the Koreans," published in the May 20, 1919, edition of the Yomiuri Daily newspaper, deeply touched the minds of the Korean people. It asked, "Who really believes that people can be bound together by a military government and repression?" Yanagi did not merely satisfy himself with adopting a purely aesthetical point of view, but was also a political commentator. His stance was described as an indictment of violent repression and as a criticism of Japanese tactics, but also as a plea for the protection of Korean culture. He pointed out that such a policy would never give rise to peace in the colonies. Another article titled, "Letter to My Korean Friends," criticizing Japanese colonial policies that had robbed Korea of its sovereignty and destroyed its unique culture, was published in the Kaizo journal in June 1920. He recognized that Koreans "were full of sorrow and suffering." "Their flag no longer flies high in the sky and despite it being spring, Their own culture grows more distant by the day and is disappearing from their villages" Yanagi's writings helped to raise awareness of Koreans' plight both in Japan and Korea. He was subsequently listed by the Japanese authorities as a "dangerous person." Today we can reflect on Yanagi's unique worldview that combined religious aesthetics with passion for Korean culture and art. Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International and director of the Korean-Swedish Association. BHOPAL: Controversy hit the roadshow of Digvijaya Singh, Congress candidate from Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, on Wednesday as police personnel on duty in civilian clothes were seen sporting saffron scarves around their necks. Talking to ANI, a policewoman said that they were asked to wear the scarves during the roadshow. Well-known Hindu saint Computer Baba and several other saints accompanied Singh during the roadshow. Singh addressed the public from the top of his vehicle and kept chanting Bharat Mata ki Jai and Hum sab ek hain (We are one) throughout his roadshow. Bhopal: #Visuals from the roadshow of Computer Baba and Digvijay Singh (Congress candidate from Bhopal Parliamentary constituency). #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/iovEGWJuxS ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 The policemen, who were deployed in plain clothes at the roadshow to maintain law and order were seen wearing saffron scarves, which has sparked a row as the men in uniform are supposed to remain apolitical. We are here on duty for a road show conducted by Computer Baba. We have been made to wear this," a policewoman told ANI. Bhopal: Police personnel in civil uniform seen wearing saffron scarves at the roadshow of Computer Baba and Digvijay Singh (Congress candidate from the Lok Sabha seat); a policewoman says "we've been made to wear this". #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/RN8UUN2oMC ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 However, Bhopal DIG rejected the claims, stressing no police personnel wore scarves of saffron or any other colour. He added that the police force and organisers of the roadshow had enrolled volunteers and the volunteers are free to wear what they want. In Bhopal, Singh is pitted against Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur of BJP. Sadhvi Pragya is still an accused in 2008 Malegaon blast but the BJP has been claiming that she is a victim of the theory of "saffron terror", which was floated by Digvijaya Singh and other Congress leaders. On Tuesday, Singh performed a havan along with his wife at Bhopal's Saifia Ground. Computer Baba, originally named Namdeo Das Tyagi and thousands of other saints, also joined Singh during the 'havan''. Talking about the havan, Computer Baba had said that it was a form of Hathyog that had been organised to pray for the Congress leader's victory in the Lok Sabha poll. The seer, who was appointed the Minister of State (MoS) in Shivraj Singh Chouhan's government in Madhya Pradesh, also lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fooling the Hindu community by using Ram Mandir as a political tool. "BJP has fooled not just the public but the community of seers as well. All sadhus who are with me unanimously say that without a Ram Mandir there will not be a Modi government again," Computer Baba had said. NEW DELHI: The Election Commission of India on Wednesday gave a clean chit to Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, Bharatiya Janata Party candidate from Bhopal, over allegations of violating the 72-hour campaign ban imposed by the poll panel. Live TV Congress had alleged that Thakur continued electioneering during the 72-hour-ban, visiting temples and campaigning to large crowds. The party further claimed that Thakur shared pamphlets about her struggles. The District Election Officer had sent a notice, seeking a response to allegations of campaigning during the three-day period. In her reply, Thakur denied all charges and said she was unaware who shared the pamphlets on her. The EC had barred Thakur, an accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast, from campaigning for 72 hours for her remarks on former ATS chief Hemant Karkare and Babri mosque demolition. She had said Karkare was killed in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack because of her "curse" because he "tortured" her when he probed the case as chief of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). She also said that she was "proud" of her participation in the demolition of the Babri mosque at Ayodhya in 1992. The panel "strongly condemned" her remarks and warned her "not to repeat the misconduct in future". The ban came in to effect on May 2, Thursday. Thakur on Sunday, May 5, resumed campaigning for ongoing Lok Sabha election. Bhopal will vote during the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections on May 12. Pragya is pitted against Congress leader Digvijay Singh. New Delhi: Acting on the allegations of Opposition parties of massive booth capturing and false voting in Tripura, the Election Commission of India ordered repolling in 168 polling stations in 26 assembly constituencies of Tripura (West) constituency. "Polls taken on April 11 at 168 polling stations of the Tripura West Parliamentary constituency declared void. Repolls to be held on 12th May from 7 am to 5 pm," Election Commission said in a statement. The repolling will be held from 7am-5pm on May 12. Tripura West parliamentary seat had recorded over 81 per cent of voter turnout when the constituency went to polls on April 11. On April 19, Congress and CPI(M) in Tripura approached the poll panel and complained of massive poll rigging and booth capturing in Tripura West constituency. CPI-M general secretary, Sitaram Yechuri alleged that more than 460 booths out of the total 1679 in West Tripura were 'rigged, voters were intimidated and forced to leave the booths and the agents of Left political parties were not allowed to enter inside the booths by the BJP workers'. "Central forces were not seen in the booths. They were entirely absent and it was possible due to the collaboration of the central and the state government. We have demanded repolling in 460 booths," Yechuri had said in a press conference. Congress candidate Subal Bhowmick accused BJP workers of intimidating and threatening voters. "We have demanded the immediate resignation of DGP, A K Shukla and Chief Electoral Officer Sriram Taranikanti because police acted as silent spectators when booths were rigged before their eyes by BJP workers," he said in a press conference. Leader of the Opposition in Tripura Assembly Manik Sarkar said, "BJP workers intimidated voters. We could not field polling agents in many booths. We have a strong organisation in the entire state and if we cannot field polling agents, then you can understand the situation." However, BJP candidate and party general secretary of Tripura Pratima Bhowmick denied the allegations of Congress and CPI-M. Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb said "people exercised their franchise in a festive mood and voting was completely peaceful. Soon after the Atal Bihari Vajpayee led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government celebrated the first year in power in 1999, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) pulled the plug bringing the Central government down in just 13 months. The AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa had been pressuring the Vajpayee government to remove all criminal cases filed against her by the Tamil Nadu government. However, when the Central government refused to do so, the coalition partner withdrew support. Shortly after, Vajpayee was asked to prove his majority in Parliament, which he lost by just one vote. Also Read: History of Lok Sabha elections President KR Narayanan gave the main opposition Congress a chance to prove its majority but when the party failed, he called for early elections on 26 April. After the 1996 and 1998, the 1999 Lok Sabha election was the third parliamentary polls that were being held within 40 months. The election was to be held in five phases from 5 September to 3 October 1999. While Vajpayee was the caretaker PM, the country got into a war with Pakistan in May after their Army infiltrated into India and captured Army posts in Kargil. The bloody Kargil war that lasted till July led to the death of at least 527 Indian soldiers. Though Pakistan had initially denied its role in the conflict calling it India's face-off with 'Kashmiri freedom fighters', it later awarded its soldiers medals for the Kargil war in the admission of its involvement. 1999 :: PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee Went to Lahore In Bus and Few Months After That Kargil War Happened pic.twitter.com/RC8f4Eg40I indianhistorypics (@IndiaHistorypic) February 28, 2019 Pakistan had tried to use the US to intervene in the matter to stop the fighting and also help resolve the Kashmir issue. However, wary of the consequences of a conflict between two nuclear-armed forces, the US asked Pakistan to withdraw its troops from the LoC. Vajpayee's firm stance on dealing with Pakistan and not giving in under US pressure emboldened his image as a fierce leader. PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee vis Kargil . Lavishes efforts of men & officers #ThisDayThatYear. #RememberingKargil. pic.twitter.com/klaIELl04E ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) June 13, 2016 The BJP was going into elections with a message of having dealt strongly with the Kashmir border crisis and with a more aggressive stance on defence and terror as well as neo-liberal economic policies. Congress, on the other hand, maintained its pro-liberalisation stand on disinvestment and economic policy. However, the real talking point of the election were the two faces on either side - Vajpayee for the BJP and Sonia Gandhi for the Congress. Sonia had entered the political space officially as Congress president in 1998 but she was fighting her first election in 1999. She decided to contest the election from two seats - Bellary in Karnataka and Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. While she was preparing for the electoral battle, Sonia was also facing an opposition from within the party where veteran leaders like Sharad Pawar, PA Sangma and Tariq Anwar questioned her right to become the prime minister, if the party won, owing to her foreign origins. The internal challenge was to such an extent that she offered her resignation as the party chief. However, the major chunk of the party sided with Sonia and the three rebels were expelled. The three leaders later went on to form the Nationalist Congress Party. The 'videshi' barb at Sonia was the ammunition that BJP needed to get an edge in the election. The saffron party portrayed the fight between the 'swadeshi' Vajpayee and 'videshi' Sonia. After the five phases of voting on 5, 11, 18, 25 September and 3 October, the counting was to be held on 6 October. As Vajpayee had predicted in his last speech in Parliament before resigning as the prime minister in April 1999, the BJP made up for the one-vote loss that it had suffered earlier in the year while proving the majority in the House. The 1999 election results tilted in the favour of the over 20 party coalition - NDA - with BJP in the lead. (Read the tally of parties in 1998 Lok Sabha election) The counting of votes which began on 6 October gave the NDA 298 seats while the Congress and its allies bagged 136 seats. Of the NDA coalition partners, the BJP secured the maximum share of 182 seats. While the number of seats that the BJP won in 1998 and 1999 elections remained the same, the seat share of the party in various states differed. The party which won 57 seats in Uttar Pradesh in 1998, bagged 29 seats in the 1999 election and won 7 seats in Karnataka as opposed to its 1998 tally of 13. In all the other states, the party fared better than the previous election despite having fielded a lesser number of candidates overall. In both Rajasthan and Maharashtra, the party won 11 and 9 seats respectively more than the previous election. HOW BHARATIYA JANATA PARTY FARED HOW CONGRESS FARED ANDHRA PRADESH 7 ANDHRA PRADESH 5 ASSAM 2 ARUNACHAL PRADESH 2 BIHAR 23 ASSAM 10 GOA 2 BIHAR 4 GUJARAT 20 GUJARAT 6 HARYANA 5 KARNATAKA 18 HIMACHAL PRADESH 3 KERALA 8 JAMMU & KASHMIR 2 MADHYA PRADESH 11 KARNATAKA 7 MAHARASHTRA 10 MADHYA PRADESH 29 MEGHALAYA 1 MAHARASHTRA 13 NAGALAND 1 ORISSA 9 ORISSA 2 PUNJAB 1 PUNJAB 8 RAJASTHAN 16 RAJASTHAN 9 TAMIL NADU 4 TAMIL NADU 2 UTTAR PRADESH 29 UTTAR PRADESH 10 WEST BENGAL 2 WEST BENGAL 3 ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLANDS 1 CHANDIGARH 1 NATIONAL CAPITAL TERRITORYOF DELHI 7 DAMAN & DIU 1 LAKSHADWEEP 1 PONDICHERRY 1 TOTAL 182 114 The Congress, on the other hand, bagged 114 seats - 27 less than its previous tally. However, it gained 11 seats in Karnataka and made its foray back into Uttar Pradesh by winning 10 seats. It lost a major share of seats in Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan winning 5, 10 and 9 seats as against 22, 33 and 18 in the last election. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), which played a crucial role in the BJP losing its vote of confidence earlier in the year, won 14 seats out of the 225 it contested on. The party had improved its tally from the last election where it had bagged just 5 seats. The Communist Party of India won 4 of the 54 seats it contested on while the Communist Party of India Marxist bagged 33 of the 72 seats it contested on. The Janata Dal United won 21 seats while the Janata Dal Secular bagged just one seat. Though Congress failed to create a dent in BJP-led NDA's image, Sonia won from both the Bellary and Amethi seats that she contested on. However, she chose to represent Amethi. The NDA with 298 seats came back to power defeating Congress and its allies which bagged 136 seats. Vajpayee was elected as the prime minister for the third time and took oath along with his colleagues on 13 October 1999. New Delhi: Delhi was the epicentre of campaigning for Lok Sabha 2019 election on Wednesday with PM Narendra Modi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Arvind Kejriwal all leading the charge for their respective parties here. The battle for Delhi's seven parliamentary constituencies reached fever pitch with star campaigners of Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress and Aam Aadmi Party trying to strike a balance between national and local issues in their respective bid to ensure the support of people in India's capital city. PM Modi, speaking at Ramlila Maidan, even apologised to Delhi's residents before slamming Congress over a number of issues. "There is something for which I apologise to you. After becoming PM, the security moves along with me. I see barricading and that people are stopped from going ahead. Some people would be late to reach their houses due to me," he said. "This has never been my intention and is not in my habit." PM Modi then trained his guns against Congress on a day when Priyanka described herself as 'Delhi's girl.' "When one family becomes a priority for a party, they are unable to see the concerns of the common people. The nation is looking at the fourth generation of naamdar family of Congress. But this dynastic mindset has not been restricted to just one family. All those who have been close to this family have carried forward the flag of dynasty," he said. " Dikshits in Delhi, Hoodas in Haryana, from there till Bhajan Lal ji & Bansi Lal ji dynasty politics is going on. Beant Singh's family in Punjab, Gehlots & Pilots in Rajasthan. Scindias, Kamal Nath's family & Digvijaya Singh's family in MP are strengthening dynasty." Highlighting how the NDA government has worked to make India a force to reckon with on the world stage, PM Modi also touched upon local issues like traffic, pollution and a clean Yamuna. PM Modi's charged-up rally was shortly after Priyanka tried to drum up support by attempting to strike a personal bond. "This Delhi girl is challenging you (PM Modi). Fight the final two phases of election on the issues of demonetisation, GST, women's safety, on promises you made to the youth of the country but never fulfilled," she said. And while Priyanka tried her best to corner PM Modi, Delhi CM Kejriwal felt she is only wasting her time. Speaking to reporters, Kejriwal accused the Congress of shying away from a direct fight against BJP. "Priyanka is wasting her time here. Why does she not campaign in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh? She is doing rallies in UP against SP-BSP, she is doing rallies in Delhi against AAP. Both the brother and sister (Rahul and Priyanka) are not going to places where there is a direct fight with BJP," the AAP chief said. (Full report here) There is little doubt that the coming days could see even more fierce verbal duels between leaders of the three parties before voting on Sunday although all three main parties contesting have already expressed confidence at comfortable triumphs. Bhopal: On a day which saw the Election Commission giving a clean chit to her on allegations that she had violated the 72-hour campaign ban imposed on her, Sadhvi Pragya opted to take out a bike rally in a bid to reach out to voters in Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency. Sitting on the backseat of one of three bikes, Sadhvi Pragya was flanked by many of her well-wishers as she made rounds of Bhopal's south-west assembly segment. Waving to locals throughout, she sought blessings from the elderly and was also seen interacting with middle-aged people as well as children. Through the entire course of the rally, she kept asking people to choose the Bharatiya Janata Party and ignore the divisive politics of Congress, a party that has named veteran leader and former MP CM Digvijaya Singh as its candidate from here. Speaking to Zee News, Sadhvi Pragya said that despite the fragile condition of her body, she felt it was necessary to be part of the bike rally as it was a good way to interact with people at large. "The condition of my body has been ruined by Congress. They have tortured and broken me. Even then I won't bow down and will continue to fight for nationalism and women's respect," she said. Sadhvi Pragya had, even in the past, accused Congress of using police force against her when she was jailed in the aftermath of 2009 Malegaon blasts. Sadhvi Pragya had made her debut in politics by joining BJP on April 17 and was subsequently named as the party candidate from Bhopal, a Lok Sabha constituency that BJP has won each time since the 1989 election. Her entry to politics and fighting the ongoing election was slammed by BJP's rivals as well as by the father of a victim in Malegaon blasts. She was also banned from campaigning for 72 hours by the EC last Wednesday after her controversial remarks about having participated and being proud of Babri Masjid demolition and for her statement on cursing former ATS chief Hemant Karkare who died in the Mumbai terror attack. The battle for Bhopal is expected to be keenly fought with both Sadhvi Pragya and Digvijaya expressing their confidence. The constituency votes in the sixth phase this Sunday. (Reporting by Vivek Pataiya/Zee Media Bureau) The man who assaulted Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal during his roadshow in the national capital was granted bail on Wednesday. He got bail from the special executive magistrate (SEM) court. The assault took place in the Moti Nagar area at around 6 pm on Saturday when the man, Suresh Kumar, had slapped and abused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief. He was taken into custody by the Delhi police for questioning and on Sunday an FIR was registered against the 33-year-old man under Section 323 (Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt) of the Indan Penal Code. Live TV Delhi Police, after preliminary interrogation of the attacker, said that the accused is a scrap dealer in the area. He was a supporter of the AAP and used to work as an organiser of its rallies and meetings, it said. During his interrogation, Suresh had told police that he over the time he got disenchanted due to the behaviour of AAP leaders. AAP's "distrust in the armed forces" had further angered him, according to the Delhi Police. Additional PRO, Delhi Police, Anil Mittal had said that an inquiry by a DCP-level officer has been ordered to find out how this person was allowed to be in the reception/proximate group. After the incident, AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj had alleged that the Delhi Police had planted the man. "Delhi Police planting that man belonged to AAP, this is really shameful given the fact that the attacker's wife has herself said he was a 'Modi Bhakt' and did not like anyone talking against the PM. This is the same Delhi Police which had planted earlier that no 'mirchi attack' happened on the chief minister. It was later when the Delhi government provided CCTV footage to Delhi Police that left its political masters red-faced," Bharadwaj said. Kejriwal was atop an open jeep when the man wearing a red t-shirt jumped onto the vehicle and slapped the chief minister before he was pulled off the jeep. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia slammed the BJP after the incident. "Do (Narendra) Modi and Amit Shah want Kejriwal to be murdered," Sisodia tweeted, attacking the PM and the BJP chief. Sisodia said the BJP could not break the morale of Kejriwal, nor could not defeat him in elections in five years. "Now you want him removed from your way like this. You cowards," he said in a tweet in Hindi. Opposition BJP and Congress expressed "doubts" that the incident was the handiwork of the AAP to gain the sympathy of voters before the Lok Sabha polls in the city. Meanwhile, Delhi Congress spokesperson Jitender Kochar alleged that the incident was stage-managed by Kejriwal for gaining the sympathy of Delhiites. "The incident is as an old move of Kejriwal to stage-manage attacks on him and then seek public sympathy. But people of Delhi will not succumb to this political manoeuvre by him," he said. On his turn, Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said that his party does not support violence. "But I have doubts as to why such incidents happen with Kejriwal in election time only. I doubt this incident may have been scripted by Kejriwal himself," Tiwari said. Kejriwal, however, found support in his allies, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury, SP president Akhilesh Yadav also condemned the attacks. The latest attack on Arvind Kejriwal was not the first time was assaulted during his roadshows or gatherings. In November 2018, a man smeared chilli powder on Kejriwal's face. The incident happened inside Delhi Secretariat. Kejriwal has also been heckled and physically assaulted a lot of times. In February 2016, some people attacked Arvind Kejriwal's car with iron rods and sticks in Punjab's Ludhiana. A month before, a member of the Aam Aadmi Army, Arjun Arora, had thrown ink at Kejriwal. During the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, some people threw eggs and ink at Kejriwal and other leaders of the AAP when he was campaigning in Varanasi constituency. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday filed a fresh affidavit in the Supreme Court, tendering an 'unconditional apology' to the apex court for attributing 'chowkidar chor hai' remark on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the SC in Rafale case. The SC will next hear the case on Friday. It may be recalled that a SC bench headed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi had rejected Rahul's previous affidavit in which the Congress chief had expressed 'regret'. The top court had also asked Rahul to not make contradictory statements. The tough stand taken by the SC had left Rahul with no other option than offering the unconditional apology in order to end the contempt case. "The Deponent unconditionally apologises for the wrongful attributions to this Honble Court. The Deponent further states that any such attributions were entirely unintentional, non-willful and inadvertent," Rahul said in his new three-page affidavit. The Congress chief also said in his affidavit that he holds the SC in the highest esteem and respect and that he has never sought or intended to, directly or indirectly, commit any act that interferes with the process of administration of justice. Live TV Earlier, Rahul's counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi had told the SC that there were three errors in the first affidavit that was filed on the Congress chief's behalf over the issue. During the hearing in the case, Mukul Rohatgi who appeared on behalf of BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi said: He (Rahul Gandhi) deliberately put words in the mouth of SC, he has only expressed regret. Law is clear in contempt cases the line starts with an unconditional apology." It is to be noted that the case against Rahul Gandhi was filed by Lekhi, who is also the sitting MP from New Delhi parliamentary constituency. The observations made by SC pertain to order passed by the top court on April 15 when the SC had sought Rahul's explanation on a petition filed by Meenakshi Lekhi, who has sought criminal contempt against Rahul Gandhi. Lekhi had also claimed that Rahul made the remark wrongfully attributing it to the apex court. In his second affidavit, the Congress chief had 'expressed regret' for his remark against PM Modi but had not apologised for the same. "The answering Respondent (Rahul) has not done nor remotely intended to do anything to lower the majesty of this Hon'ble Court in any manner whatsoever," he said in his reply. "The answering Respondent's (Rahul Gandhi) brief statement to the mediawalas made in this context of and during hectic political campaigning without having seen, read or analyzed the order at that stage," he had said. NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought a reply from Election Commission on the cancellation of Samajwadi Party candidate Tej Bahadur Yadav's nomination from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat by Thursday, May 9. Live TV Yadav, a former BSF constable, had moved top court challenging the rejection of his nomination papers by the EC to contest Lok Sabha election 2019 from Varanasi constituency, from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also contesting. Yadav's nomination was rejected on Wednesday over "discrepancies" in the application. In his petition, the dismissed BSF jawan alleged that he's being deliberately kept out of the election to ensure an easy win for PM Modi from Varanasi. He said that his nomination papers were cancelled at the behest of the BJP-led government at the Centre, adding that he had replied to the Election Commission's giving a thorough explanation over the difference in reasons. "My nomination has been rejected wrongly. I was asked to produce the evidence at 6.15 pm on Tuesday. We produced the evidence, still my nomination was rejected. We will go to the Supreme Court. We have been told that we did not produce the evidence that was asked from us before 11 am. Whereas, we had produced the evidence," he had said. Before the SP-BSP-RLD combine named Yadav as the alliance candidate from the Varanasi Lok Sabha, he was in the fray as an independent candidate. Yadav shot into limelight in January 2017 after posting four videos on social media complaining about the quality of food given to soldiers at his camp along the Indo-Pakistan border in Jammu and Kashmir, sparking intense outrage across the country. The BSF had later refuted his allegations and Yadav was dismissed from the service after an inquiry. By Mark Peterson It's axiomatic with me: Every time I go to Korea, I learn something new about the country. And thus it was on my recent trip to Korea. I was asked to substitute for three weeks for the friend of a friend who was teaching classes at Konkuk and Gacheon universities. The friend of a friend had had surgery and was looking for some recuperation time and found out I was going to be in Korea for three weeks, and thus, I taught two, two-hour classes on Fridays at Konkuk, and two, two-hour classes on Monday at Gacheon. The classes were all on Korean history. And three of the classes were in English, the fourth class was in Korean. All the students were foreign students. They came from several different countries; some classes were dominated by one or two ethnic groups. One had over half the class from Uzbekistan and the classes were large three of the four were about fifty students each. The fourth, the one in Korea, had about 15 students. One class had a large Malay representation. Konkuk was more cosmopolitan with students from the U.S., Canada, Australia, Japan, and Russia. It also had some Central Asian students. Gacheon had mostly Central Asians, Mongolians, Chinese, Myanmarese, and a Jordanian. I was quite amazed by the numbers of students and the numbers of countries represented. I once talked with some Chinese students about five years ago and found they were not all that happy studying in Korea, but these students all seemed to be quite happy in their respective programs. Some were here for a semester or a year exchange, but most were here for the full, four-year degree program. One American student from Michigan came as an exchange student, but has decided to transfer to Konkuk to finish her degree in Korea. It's probably unnecessary to remind the reader that Korea was once the net importer of education meaning Korean students were going overseas for training. Now Korea is the exporter of education. Education is the only product that is "imported" by sending students out of the country, and conversely true of Korea today education is the only product that is "exported" by bringing students into the country to study. I realized the United States exported education by bring students in when several years ago I discovered how American universities lobbied the government to liberalize its policies toward visas for foreign students to study in the US. The "exportation" of American knowledge is by the importation of students. I showed the American government figured that out when I was the Fulbright Director in Korea and saw how actively American universities argued that allowing students in brought money and support for universities. This occurred in the US in the 80s or so, as universities were struggling to keep up with a decline in population growth. Now, Korean universities are in the same fix, declining student populations, and the secret is to import students. But it's more than filling up what might be a decline in numbers of students. It's the exportation of knowledge Korean, university-level expertise. The students from Central Asia and Southeast Asia particular told me that they were following Korean developmental models, and that Korea was a role model for economic development. Will Korea benefit from a "brain drain?" One of the by-products of the United States policy of "exporting education" by importing students has been that the best and the brightest are often recruited to stay on in America in our research labs, universities, hospitals, and businesses. Will these better and brighter foreign students be recruited into Korean research labs, universities, hospitals, and businesses? Will multi-culturalism in the universities lead to multi-culturalism in wider society? The importation of labor has been tightly controlled, and has not really led to multi-culturalism in Korean society. "International marriage" has the children are growing up Korean with dual ethinicities. Will foreign students become a source of immigration and a welcomed development in Korea? Korea is leaving the unitary culture model behind. That train has left the station. We don't hear Koreans bragging about its "pure" or ethnically unitary culture as much these days. Will there be a backlash? Of course. There always is look at Europe today, and the United States as well. Dealing with multi-cultural issues is not always easy. And while most recognize the positive influx of better and brighter students and eventually better and brighter citizens, there will be some bumps in the road ahead. But it looks like Korea is traveling that road. Mark Peterson (markpeterson@byu.edu) is professor emeritus of Korean, Asian and Near Eastern languages at Brigham Young University in Utah. RJD leader Tejashvwi Yadav is busy campaigning for his party's candidates and with his father and RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav behind bars the onus on leading the party successfully in this Lok Sabha election has fallen entirely on Tejashwi's shoulder. In an exclusive interview to Zee Media, the young RJD leader on Tuesday said that UPA is going to form the next government at the Centre and the BJP-led NDA will never come to power again. Tejashwi said that he has repeatedly maintained that Congress president Rahul Gandhi should become the new prime minister of the country. Talking about his relationship with elder brother Tej Pratap Yadav, who has rebelled from the party and has fielded independent candidates against RJD candidates at several seats in Bihar, Tejashwi said that he has a very good understanding with his brother and not many people are aware of this fact. The RJD leader said that Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Ram Vilas Paswan is his guardian and he is at pain to see that LJP is going to lose all seats in Bihar. In a direct attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Tejashwi said that the prime minister has only inaugurated the works done by UPA government and he has not completed any project of his own during the last five years. He accused PM Modi of misleading the people of the country by lying to them. Referring to BJP leader Ram Madhav's recent interview to a news channel in which he had said that the BJP may find it tough to get a majority on its own, Tejashwi said that the BJP has already accepted defeat. The RJD leader added that if Lalu Yadav would have been out of jail then it would have been curtains for BJP in Bihar. Tejashwi also advised the BJP and its allies to not waste their time in campaigning because they are not going to get any support from the voters. He expressed confidence that RJD-led Mahagathbandhan will do very well in Bihar and Jharkhand. Talking about Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar, Tejahswi said that Kumar's party Janata Dal - United and the CM himself will vanish after May 23 following the announcement of election results. When asked about the chances of his elder sister Misa Bharti winning from Patliputra, Tejashwi said that Misa Bharti will defeat Ram Kripal Yadav of BJP to win from Patliputra. It may be recalled that in 2014, Yadav had defeated Misa from this seat. Tejashwi said that he will campaign for Congress' candidate from Patan Sahib, Shatrughan Sinha. Talking about his political journey, the young RJD leader said that he used to campaign for the party in 2010 and has reached to this stage after working continuously for the party in the last nine years. Tejashwi added that he is only 30-year-old and has a lot of responsibilities. Launching a scathing attack on Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi said that the JD(U) chief decided to join hands with the BJP because he was scared of getting caught for Srijan Scam and Muzaffarpur Shelter Home case. Outlining the agenda of his party, Tejashwi said that RJD is focused on removing poverty from the country, double the income of farmers and give employment to youth. Calling Nitish Kumar a weak person, Tejashwi said that the Bihar CM is only interested in clinging to the power and this is the reason why he has compromised with all his values. He added that Nitish used to slam BJP during 2014 Lok Sabha poll and 2015 Assembly election and was a strong opponent of Modi but now he is seeking votes in his name. Tejashwi claimed that the health facility in Bihar has touched its nadir under Nitish's leadership. He added that when his brother Tej was Health Minister he had laid the foundation stone of five medical colleges. (with inputs from Rupendra Srivastava) Kurukshetra, Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday was sarcastic and scathing in equal measure as he blasted Congress for hurling insults at him. Flaying the party for using its 'dictionary of love' against him, PM Modi recounted how he had been subjected to numerous abuses. The war of words between Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress flared up when PM Modi referred to Rajiv Gandhi as 'Brashtachari (Corrupt) No. 1' last week. While Rahul Gandhi responded by saying he only has love to give in return for PM Modi's hatred, BJP made it a point to highlight how Congress leaders - Rahul included - had targeted PM Modi using insults. On Wednesday, it was PM Modi himself who recounted these. "Congress has repeatedly broken all norms and decorum by repeatedly abusing me. It is evident from their dictionary of love," he said with a sarcastic tone in his voice. "I was called 'stupid PM'. Their dictionary of love even called me Gadaffi, Mussolini and Hitler. They called me mentally unstable and they continue to 'shower this love' which has been taking place since I became PM." PM Modi's reference to 'dictionary of love' is apparently a retort to Rahul's 'love and hug' comment recently. The Congress president, after repeatedly calling PM Modi a thief, chose to change his strategy in a bid to show that he is unwilling to lower the political discourse. It was called out by union ministers Arun Jaitley and Prakash Javdekar who said that terming an honest PM as a thief should also constitute as a violation of poll conduct if the Congress wants to insist that the reference to Rajiv Gandhi by PM Modi was a violation. The war of words between rival political parties this election season has been intense with political leaders often resorting to personal insults to support their allegations. New Delhi: At least five persons were killed and 19 others were injured after a passenger bus carrying a marriage party collided with a truck in Madhya Pradesh's Chhindwara. The accident took place at Sarna-Bangaon road. As per the report, one side of the bus, which was carrying almost 50 passengers, was totally damaged in the collision. The drivers of both truck, as well as the bus, are said to be on the run after the accident. The locals helped reached the injured to the district hospital where they are being given medical treatment. According to reports, 3 out of 19 injured passengers are said to be in a critical state. One person succumbed to his injuries while he was being taken to the hospital. Office Of Superintendent Of Police, Chhindwara Manoj Kumar Rai confirmed that five people have been killed in the mishap. He visited the hospital and instructed the health officials to ensure the provision of treatment to every injured. In the meantime, the relatives of those killed in the accidents created a ruckus at the hospital after the management decided to send the bodies for postmortem. Following the chaos, a heavy police force was deployed at the hospital. New Delhi: The Duchess and Duke of Sussex welcomed their baby boy to the royal family on May 6, 2019. After two days, the proud new parents have shared the first glimpse of the royal baby. ANI shared the video on Twitter. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry posed with the newborn baby boy at Windsor Castle, UK. The royal couple expressed their feelings on becoming new parents and how happy they are to welcome the addition to the royal family. #WATCH The Duchess and Duke of Sussex, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry with their baby boy for the first time, at Windsor Castle, UK pic.twitter.com/khCCGJt0KJ ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 The royal baby boy is the couple's first child and happens to be the seventh in line to the British throne. The official Instagram handle of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex shared first photos. The caption reads: Today The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are delighted to share their first public moment as a family. They are so incredibly grateful for the warm wishes and support theyve received from everyone around the world, since welcoming their son two days ago. Photo cred: Chris Allerton Sussex royal When 37-year-old Meghan went into labour, husband Prince Harry was by her side. Prince Harry married Meghan Markle in May 2018. She retired from acting after becoming a member of the Royal family. New Delhi: Like any other special day, Mother's Day is celebrated as a mark of honour to all the mothers out there. In any family, the mother is the first teacher of the child, therefore, it is primary that at least a day is solely dedicated to making her feel elated and special. The date differs every year as in most of the countries, Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. This year, it happens to fall on May 12. However, in several other countries, Mother's Day is celebrated on different date and month. The day celebrates motherhood and honours mothers of the family for their unconditional love and support. Here are a few new-age mothers, who are fighting their own tough battles in life and working hard to make each day count better. Jincy Varghese, Panvel She is a 31-year-old software professional from Panvel, who felt deeply traumatised when her newborn child was fed formula milk at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), without giving her a chance to breastfeed. Her campaign is asking hospitals to take consent before feeding formula milk to newborns. Jincy runs a campaign on change.org She writes that formula milk to babies is a medical intervention and it should only be done in case of a medical condition that inhibits the mother or the baby from breastfeeding. And if there actually is a medical condition, then consent should be taken, just like in that case of any other medical procedure. In my case, there was no need for formula feeding at all. There are risks associated with feeding formula milk to babies which should be clearly mentioned in the consent form. Her campaign now has 91000 supporters. Deepika Ahuja, Bangalore Deepika was harrowed by her personal journey when she brought home an adopted child. She wrote, This child needed my attention and I was lucky because the organisation where I worked gave me four months of parental leave. I experienced her milestones as she grew: The first time she smiled, the first time she called me Aeeee Didi and the first time she laughed out loud. I was there to hold her when she missed her orphanage family and cried. I was there for afternoon naps, and evening walks. But most importantly, I was there to help her understand that I was her mother. Deepika has started a petition on change.org. She has urged the Minister for Labour and Employment to provide equal parental leaves to adoptive parents. The currently existing Maternity Benefits (Amendment) Act sets the stage for discrimination against adoptive parents and adopted children. New Delhi: Bollywood's 'It' couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt are often giving us major relationship goals. Be it arriving together at an event or being spotted shopping at NYC, the two win hearts each time news regarding them surface. Fans lovingly call them 'Raila' and are always eager to know more about the two. As per the latest reports, the duo is currently holidaying in Europe and their next destination is Lake Como, Italy. A Filmfare report reveals that Ranbir and Alia will be flying to Lake Como soon. A source told Filmfare, This looked like the perfect time and Ranbir and Alia will soon be off to Lake Como as they love its scenic beauty. The source further added that the two plan to visit several places across Europe and will get back to work after this holiday. Interestingly, the name Lake Como has become synonyms with 'Wedding'. After all, this is the same place where power couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh tied the nuptial knot. On the work front, Ranbir and Alia await the release of 'Brahmastra'. The film will hit the screens in 2020 and also stars megastar Amitabh Bachchan. In two separate operations in northeastern India, the Assam Rifles unit along with the police apprehended two terrorists of Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) and United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA), according to the Eastern Command on the Army on Wednesday. Live TV Both the terrorists were arrested from Manipur's Angtha and Thoubal area on Tuesday (May 7). The duo has been handed over to the police for further investigation. The Eastern Command had tweeted, "#AR unit along with police in two separate operations apprehended two cadres of KYKL & ULFA from Angtha & Thoubal area of Manipur on 07 May. Both the apprehended cadres have been handed over to Police for further investigation" Earlier on Tuesday too, in a major blow to terrorists, the Army in a joint operation with the Assam police apprehended a Kamtapur Liberation Organisation (KLO) terrorist in Tinsukia. The Eastern Command of the Army tweeted that the terrorist was arrested on May 6 (Monday) and several items recovered from him. The person, along with the recovered items, has been handed over to the police for further investigation. In a tweet, the Eastern Command said, "#NEOps #IndianArmy unit in a joint operation with police apprehended a SS Sgt Maj, KLO cadre from Tinsukia, Assam on 06 May. The individual along with recovered items has been handed over to police for further investigation." The KLO is a terrorist organisation who want a separate Kamtapur nation comprising of ten districts. New Delhi: Days after the United Nations Security Council designated Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, intelligence agencies in a report said that Pakistan is establishing a new terror group Jaish-e-Mutqi near the border area with Afghanistan. The report said that Pakistan has been setting up terror camps in Miramshah city to provide training to terrorists linked with the outfit. Miramshah is a part of North Waziristan and is only 60 kilometres away from Afghanistan. The city is considered to be a stronghold of Taliban militants. Live TV According to an intelligence official, Pakistan is also recruiting Taliban terrorists from the newly-formed group Jaish-e-Mutqi. "As per the information, Pakistan has long been engaged in preparing Taliban fighters to carry out attacks in India. Since the return of NATO forces in Afghanistan, Pakistan's ISI has been persuading all Taliban terrorists for attacks on India. Ever since the UNSC imposed a ban on Jaish chief Azhar, Pakistan has been facing global pressure to take action against such terror outfits. And hence, their Inter-Services Intelligence has been engaged in the formation and strengthening of the new faction Jaish-e-Mutqi. Amidst this, the Indian intelligence agency said it is continuously monitoring the activities of the recently formed terror group. A week ago, on April 29, Indian intelligence agencies had warned that Pakistan's ISI was in touch with terrorists linked to Jaish and Islamic State (IS) terror groups to carry out fresh attacks in India. In a report sent to the Home Ministry, the IB agencies mentioned that ISI organised a secret meeting between the terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammad and Islamic State members in Afghanistan. The report added that the ISI has been planning more Pulwama-like attacks in Kashmir and therefore has been making all efforts to bring the terror groups - ISIS and JeM - together. Intelligence reports accessed by Zee News reveal that the Jaish chief recently resurfaced in Pakistan's Bahawalpur and held a meeting with top commanders of the banned terror group. The report added that Azhar also instructed the top commanders of JeM to choose highly-trained terrorists in order to carry out attacks in India at short notice. According to the report, Azhar asserted during a meeting that he was hale and hearty and he never had to go to the hospital or visit a doctor in the last 17 years. His claims were in contrast to Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who had stated after the Pulwama attack that 'Azhar is unwell to an extent that he can't leave his house'. The intelligence inputs added during the meeting with top commanders, Azhar discussed plans for fidayeen attacks and asked the terrorists to be prepared for more Pulwama-like attacks on the Indian soil. YANGON: A Biman Bangladesh Airlines plane came off the runway as it landed in bad weather at Yangon`s international airport on Wednesday evening, injuring at least 17 people and seriously damaging the aircraft, officials said. The Bombardier Dash 8 aircraft was carrying 29 passengers and four crew when it skidded off the runway while landing in Myanmar`s commercial capital, Bangladesh`s ambassador to Myanmar said. Live TV There were no major injuries but 17 people were admitted to a hospital near the airport, the ambassador, Manjurul Karim Khan Chowdhury, told Reuters. Corporal Zaw Min Oo of the Myanmar fire department said at least a dozen men and four women were being treated at the hospital. A photo published by the Myanmar Times showed the plane halfway off the runway with its fuselage apparently broken. "The aircraft skidded off the runway amid bad weather," the airline`s general manager, Shakil Miraj, told Reuters by phone. A spokesman for Myanmar`s Department of Civil Aviation declined to comment, saying the department had not received a report of the incident from the ground. Bangladesh`s Biman flies between Myanmar`s largest city, Yangon, and Bangladesh`s capital Dhaka four days a week. SEOUL: North Korea`s "strike drill" last week at which leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch of rockets and at least one short-range ballistic missile was "regular and self-defensive," the North`s foreign ministry said on Wednesday, according to state media. "The recent drill conducted by our army is nothing more than part of the regular military training, and it has neither targeted anyone nor led to an aggravation of the situation in the region," an unidentified ministry spokesperson said in a statement to the state-run KCNA news agency. Live TV Acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan told a congressional hearing on Wednesday that North Korea launched "rockets and missiles", the first time the Pentagon has detailed what it believes Pyongyang fired. Saturday`s drill was the first test of a ballistic missile by North Korea since it launched a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. It came in the wake of talks with the United States and South Korea stalling in February and raised alarms in both countries, which have been seeking to entice the North into abandoning its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. Seoul responded on Saturday by calling on its northern neighbour to "stop acts that escalate military tension on the Korean Peninsula." In a second statement carried by KCNA on Wednesday, a spokesman for the North Korean office in charge of military engagement with South Korea lashed out at Seoul over any suggestion that the rocket drills had violated an inter-Korean agreement aimed at reducing military tension. "The South Korean military should take a close look at the inter Korean military agreement and recall what it has done itself before talking nonsense that it was against the spirit of the agreement," the spokesperson said, according to KCNA. NORTH KOREA CRITICIZES US TEST The second statement also criticised last week`s test of a US Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) by the US Air Force out of California over the Pacific, saying South Korea was in no position to criticise North Korea. "The South Korean military has no right to say a word to its fellow countrymen when it acted like a mute who ate honey when the United States fired a Minuteman ICBM which threatens us," the military spokesman said. US President Donald Trump, who has met with Kim twice, said he was still confident he could have a deal with Kim, and US and South Korean officials have subsequently played down the test. North Korea`s foreign ministry statement hit back at "spiteful remarks" about the tests from unnamed critics, warning that "baseless allegations" might "produce a result of driving us to the direction which neither we nor they want to see at all." The ministry spokesperson said there was a double standard, with South Korea and the United States carrying out military drills with little criticism. "Only our regular and self-defensive military drill is branded as provocative, and this is an undisguised manifestation of the attempt to press the gradual disarmament of our state and finally invade us," the spokesperson said. "We think this is very much unpleasant and regrettable, and we sound a note of warning." After meeting with Kim for the first time in June last year, Trump abruptly announced he was cancelling all large-scale military exercises with South Korea. Smaller exercises have continued, however, drawing regular criticism from Pyongyang. North Korea had maintained a freeze in nuclear and ballistic missiles testing in place since 2017, a fact Trump has repeatedly pointed out as an important achievement from his engagement with Pyongyang. Denuclearisation talks with North Korea have stalled, however, after Trump and Kim met in February for a second summit but failed to reach an agreement. North Korea balked at the extent of the demands made by American negotiators, and Trump said he ended the summit early because Kim was asking for nearly all major sanctions to be lifted while offering little in return. The US special envoy for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, arrived in Seoul on Wednesday for talks with South Korean officials. He did not respond to questions from journalists, but his agenda is expected to include the missile test, as well as other aspects of talks with North Korea, including plans for possible humanitarian aid. Humanitarian move aimed at breaking deadlock The Moon Jae-in administration has formally floated the idea of providing food aid to North Korea. The idea came four days after Pyongyang test-fired short-range missiles into the East Sea. The announcement followed Moon's phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump. The proposed assistance is certainly designed to help break the deadlock over not only inter-Korean ties but also denuclearization talks between Pyongyang and Washington. Simply put, it is a carrot to appease the Kim Jong-un regime that has refused to hold dialogue since the failure of Kim's second summit with Trump in Hanoi in late February. According to Cheong Wa Dae, Trump expressed support for Seoul's provision of food aid to the North. Presidential spokeswoman Ko Min-jung quoted Trump as telling Moon during their phone conversation that the South's provision of food to the North as a humanitarian move will be a "timely" and "positive" step, and gave his support. The aid offer should not come as a surprise. Seoul and Washington have recognized the need for food assistance to the poverty-stricken North. Last week U.N. agencies said in a report that North Korea was in need of about 1.36 million tons of additional grain to make up for an acute food shortage. More importantly, the leaders of South Korea and the U.S. are trying to use the humanitarian move as an incentive for the North to return to the negotiating table. As things stand now, it is important to keep the momentum for dialogue alive. It is equally important to prevent Pyongyang from escalating tensions with more military provocations. That's why Seoul and Washington have shown a measured response to the North's Saturday launch of the missiles. A possible tit-for-tat reaction could make matters worse, probably seeing the North shut the door on talks with the South and the U.S. The Moon government needs to decide how to deliver the proposed food aid to the North, either through an international aid agency or directly. It also needs to work out the details, including the amount and timing. Officials are expected to talk with U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun who is in Seoul to discuss issues such as the North's launching of the missiles and the food aid proposal. They need to map out measures to prod the Kim regime to return to dialogue. Yet the problem is whether Pyongyang will accept the food aid offer. No one can rule out the possibility of the North rejecting the proposal unless the U.S. accepts its demand for sanctions relief in return for partial denuclearization steps. In this regard, Seoul and Washington should step up their joint efforts to persuade Pyongyang to stop its high-pressure tactics and resume the denuclearization talks. For its part, the North needs to respond to the goodwill gesture by the South and the U.S. in a positive way. If it loses this opportunity to get out of the impasse, the North will face the grim reality of famine and economic woes on the top of sanctions. LAHORE, PAKISTAN: Eight persons died and 25 others injured in a powerful explosion outside Lahore's Data Darbar on Wednesday, with several in critical condition. The nature of the explosion is yet to be ascertained. Initial reports state a vehicle of the Punjab Police Elite Force was the target of the blast. The suicide bomber, aged around 15-16 years, came closer to the vehicle and blew himself up. The body was completely dismembered, sources told Zee News. Among those killed, includes five policemen, two civilians and a private guard. Several persons including police officers have been wounded in the explosion. The blast took place around 8:45 am (local time) outside Gate number 2 of the shrine. "The target of the suicide bomber was the vehicle of the Elite Force that was stationed outside the shrine of Sufi saint Ali Hajvari commonly known as Data Darbar," Nawaz told news agency PTI. The Elite Police is a branch of the Punjab Police specialising in counter-terrorist operations and high-risk searches, raids and rescue operations. Data Darbar is one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia. The shrine is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. In 2010, the shrine was targeted in a suicide attack that killed more than 40 people, and is guarded by heavy security. Muslims are currently observing the fasting month of Ramzan across the world. LONDON/NEW YORK: Uber drivers in London and New York started a series of multi-city strikes on Wednesday to protest the disparity between gig-economy conditions and the sums that investors are likely to make in Friday`s blockbuster stock market debut. Protests were sparsely attended in London and New York, and rides appeared easily available in some cities where strikes were called. Drivers and regulators around the world have long criticized the business tactics of Uber Technologies Inc, and the expected valuation of up to $90 billion in its initial public offering on Friday is proving to be the latest flashpoint. Unions in Britain said support for the strike was strong, with drivers staying at home and passengers using the #UberShutDown hashtag to pledge solidarity on social media. The Uber app indicated fares were higher in London during a rainy morning rush hour due to increased demand. Live TV "Stand with these workers on strike today, across the UK and the world," said Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Britain`s opposition Labour Party. A few dozen protesters gathered at a rally in London. Another dozen attended a protest at about 9 a.m. EDT (1300 GMT) near Wall Street in Manhattan. At Uber`s headquarters in the borough of Queens in New York City, about one hundred people gathered in the morning, but their numbers dwindled to a few dozen or so at 1 pm, when a rally was scheduled. Uber has 3 million drivers globally. An organizer of the New York rally told the crowd that the driver mobilization was an "uphill battle," responding to a question about why there was not a bigger impact on the service. Many drivers work part time for the services and often divide their time between platforms, delivering food and goods as well as giving rides. Actions are also planned in Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and other major cities. The public calls for higher pay underscored that some drivers want more from Chief Executive Officer Dara Khosrowshahi, who was hired to help move the company past a series of scandals, improve driver relations and manage the IPO. Uber is paying more than a million drivers about $300 million in one-time bonuses, for instance, and has changed policies such as allowing riders to tip. "Whether it`s being able to track your earnings or stronger insurance protections, we`ll continue working to improve the experience for and with drivers," the company said. BROKEN PROMISES Uber has steadfastly, and mostly successfully, beaten back attempts to compel it to treat drivers as employees, arguing that its main business is a platform that brings riders and drivers together. And the money-losing company is under pressure to cut costs. Many drivers want better pay from Uber rival Lyft Inc as well. "I`m striking because Uber has broken their promises to drivers time and again," said Syed Ali, an Uber driver and member of the striking New York Taxi Workers Alliance, in a statement. "They have grown and grown and gotten richer and richer, but I haven`t grown with the company. My condition as an Uber driver has gotten worse and worse." Uber and Lyft have cut back on incentives and bonuses in more established markets to attract new drivers. They have also devised more complicated formulas for determining what riders pay and what drivers earn. Both companies recently slashed the per-mile rate for drivers in Los Angeles and San Francisco, while adjusting some other factors, such as per-minute rates. Some drivers estimated a loss of 10 percent to 20 percent in earnings. The company and its critics are divided over how much drivers can make. Classified as independent contractors, they lack paid sick and vacation days and must cover their own expenses, such as car maintenance and gasoline. U.S. representatives for Uber and Lyft did not respond to requests for comment Wednesday. Ahead of the actions, Lyft said its hourly wages have risen over the last two years and average over $20 per hour. Uber noted that a recent study whose authors included current and former Uber employees showed driver gross earnings averaged $21 an hour. But a study by left-leaning Washington think tank Economic Policy Institute calculated that after costs, Uber drivers earned $9.21 an hour. WASHINGTON: The United States on Wednesday threatened to impose more sanctions on Iran `very soon` and warned Europe against doing business with Tehran, increasing pressure on the Islamic republic hours after saying it will stop complying with parts of an international agreement to curb its nuclear program. On the first anniversary of Washington`s withdrawal from the 2015 landmark deal between Tehran and world powers, US officials said they would keep squeezing Iran to force it to return to the negotiating table for a more comprehensive deal that would seek to curtail Iranian ambitions in the Middle East. Live TV Tensions were already high between Washington and Tehran when the Trump administration said last weekend that it was deploying a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East, in response to what it said were `troubling indications and warnings` from Iran. Leading Democratic lawmakers such as Representative Adam Schiff warned that the Republican administration`s moves could put the United States on the path to war and House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi requested a briefing on Iran for members. Hours before the US threat of more sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Tehran was reducing curbs to its nuclear program with steps that for now stopped short of violating the 2015 accord. But it threatened more action if countries did not shield it from sanctions. Tehran halting compliance with some elements of the nuclear deal was "nothing less than nuclear blackmail of Europe," Tim Morrison, special assistant to the US president and senior director for weapons of mass destruction, told a conference. "Now is the time for the community of nations to strongly condemn Irans nuclear misconduct and increase pressure on the regime to comply with US demands," Morrison said, adding that Washington was not `done` with sanctions on Iran. "Expect more sanctions soon. Very soon," he said. Morrison said the United States would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to undermine Washington`s sanctions pressure on Iran. He advised them against using the so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate non-dollar trade to circumvent US sanctions. "If you are a bank, an investor, an insurer or other business in Europe you should know that getting involved in the Special Purpose Vehicle is a very poor business decision," Morrison said. DIPLOMATIC ISOLATION President Donald Trump a year ago pulled out of the accord signed by Iran, Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and the United States to put limits on Iran`s disputed nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions. The Trump administration says the deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed as it is not permanent, does not address Iran`s ballistic missile program and does not punish it for waging proxy wars in other Middle East countries. Spearheaded by national security adviser John Bolton, the Trump administration since then has taken several unprecedented steps to squeeze Iran such as demanding the world halt all Iranian oil imports and designating Iran`s elite Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization, which Iran has cast as an American provocation. "We have made our focus diplomatic isolation and economic pressure and that policy is working," Brian Hook, Special Envoy for Iran, said in a briefing. Hook said that more nations now, compared with a year ago, were in agreement with the United States on Iran. Washington`s European allies opposed Trump`s decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal and have failed so far to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new US sanctions. France and Germany both said they wanted to keep the accord alive, and warned Iran not to violate it. Seoul-based startup helps anyone place ads on Facebook, Instagram, Google By Jun Ji-hye Small business owners and the self-employed sometimes experience difficulties in marketing their products or services as they lack the technical expertise to execute ads on their own, while it costs too much for them to contract the work out to ad agents. Eom Soo-won experienced the same difficulties several years ago while operating Solidware, a startup offering financial data analysis. This gave her the idea of creating services to help the owners of startups and small businesses run ads efficiently for less money. In 2017, Eom found a startup called Adriel after successfully selling Solidware to Dayli Financial Group. And in January this year, Adriel released an artificial intelligence (AI) powered digital advertising platform that allows users to run digital ads on Facebook, Instagram, Google and other social media at a minimum price of $5. Eom Soo-won, founder and CEO of Adriel / Courtesy of Adriel "I decided to set up Adriel to resolve problems I experienced while operating Solidware," Eom said in a recent interview with The Korea Times. "Startups do not have sufficient budgets with which they can fund services from professional ad agents. Most startups do not have the professional knowledge to implement ads on their own, either." She said owners of startups and small businesses rarely know which images are efficient in advertising their products or services, who they should target or how to analyze the results of ads. "It is also difficult for startups to recruit a professional marketer as they operate their companies with a minimum number of staff and little money to cover operational costs," she said. "For those reasons, a number of startups are forced to give up their businesses before their products and services are known to the public." Eom said Adriel's services are distinguished as they allow users to run ads on multiple platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Google at the same time as Adriel's AI engine automatically creates content that meets the standard requirements of each platform. Clients can see their ads run through digital platforms five minutes after they input basic information such as service type, region and the age of their target customers. "We utilized AI and machine learning technology to develop systems that design ads and execute them strategically," she said. "This helps significantly reduce the manpower and costs required for running ads and analyzing the effectiveness of advertising." She said prices of Adriel's services start from $5, and users can run ads as much as they want. This breaks down the barrier for advertisers at beginner levels to produce digital ads. "Adriel's AI and machine learning technologies are capable of providing both features creating ad content and analyzing the results of ads," she said. "By using our services, clients can enjoy easy and convenient services ranging from content creation to result derivation." Adriel's AI-powered services offering digital advertising / Courtesy of Adriel Hong Won-pyo, CEO of Samsung SDS, speaks during the REAL 2019 event at the Shilla Seoul hotel, Wednesday. / Courtesy of Samsung SDS By Baek Byung-yeul Samsung is taking aim at the rapidly growing digital transformation market, introducing services that help companies convert to digital operations, the IT service affiliate of Samsung Group said Wednesday. Digital transformation is a strategic adoption of digital technologies to improve business operation processes and productivity. While many companies are accelerating their digital conversions, Samsung SDS hosted an event called REAL 2019 at the Shilla Seoul hotel for its customers and partner firms, promoting Samsung SDS services and technologies. The firm also unveiled the Digital Transformation Framework, which systematically integrates the firm's knowhow and technological capabilities to support the digital transformation of many business areas such as manufacturing, marketing, sales and management systems. "The concept of digital transformation can be applied to numerous business sectors. Though manufacturing and finance sectors are considered as representative examples of digital transformation, it can also be applied to other sectors such as healthcare and agriculture," Samsung SDS CEO Hong Won-pyo said. "Using our industry knowhow as leverage, we are aiming to provide the best solutions for companies." With more than 1,500 industry officials attending, the firm shared the successful cases of digital transformation in various business sectors. It also shared how it has utilized emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data and blockchain to build an intelligent factory management system. To give an example, Jang Si-ho, executive vice president of Samsung Electronics, explained how the tech giant completed its digital transformation in the manufacturing field after using Samsung SDS' service. Samsung SDS also showcased enterprise blockchain security platform Nexledger. It recently announced the latest version of the platform called Nexledger Universal that enables companies to use commonly used open source blockchain technologies such as Hyperledger Fabric or Ethereum so that companies can reduce the time and resources required to develop their own blockchain services. The firm also gave a demonstration of its own blockchain accelerator technology Nexledger Accelerator, which can boost transaction speeds. "By using the Nexledger platform, customers can enhance security in business transactions and offer improved authentication security. In addition, our accelerator technology will help customers boost transaction time on blockchain networks," said Hong Hye-jin, head of the firm's blockchain center. The company also offered on-site consulting for its customer firms who are interested in building intelligent factory systems in the manufacturing, logistics and energy sectors. A woman reads a book while riding in a self-driving car. gettyimagesbank By Baek Byung-yeul The government will invest 14.3 billion won ($12.2 million) over the next three years to develop artificial intelligence (AI)-powered semiconductors for self-driving cars, the Ministry of Science and ICT said Wednesday. The ICT ministry said self-driving cars are a new growth engine in the semiconductor industry and the investment plan is to help local companies that are required to speed up the development of related technologies. The government expects the self-driving semiconductor market will grow to $26.3 billion by 2025. "Self-driving cars are a new growth engine in the semiconductor industry so we forecast there will be growing demand for semiconductors in the sector. Particularly self-driving cars at level 3 or higher require artificial intelligence technologies so that vehicles can recognize traffic conditions by themselves," the ICT ministry said. Level 3 automation for vehicles means an automated system performs some driving tasks but human drivers must be ready to take back control of the car when needed. Vehicles with level 4 or 5 automation systems are fully self-driving cars as they don't require human drivers. While about 100 semiconductors are used in one self-driving car, the ministry said the figure will grow to around 2,000 for the vehicles with level 4 or higher. To develop AI chips for self-driving cars, the ministry will invest the money in fabless or chip design companies and automotive parts manufacturers. Including the development of AI chips for self-driving cars, the government will invest a total of 250 billion won for the next 10 years in developing AI-tailored semiconductors. The ICT ministry said it is crucial to develop AI-powered chips with much faster processing speeds to produce truly self-driving cars. "The AI semiconductors are currently being used in autonomous vehicles, drones, internet of things (IoTs) and smart cities but to develop a truly self-driving car there should be a processor with more than 1 petaflops peak performance," the government said. One petaflops equals 1 quadrillion calculations per second. Given high-priced software tools used for chip design has been a hurdle local fabless firms couldn't clear, the ICT ministry will also enable them to share those software tools beginning the second half of 2019. To achieve these goals, the ICT ministry had a meeting with industry and academic officials at the headquarters of local fabless firm Telechips in Seoul. "The AI chip sector is still at early stage as there is no dominant technology or absolute leader in the sector. In cooperation between the government and industry, I am sure that the country can come up with competitive products in the global market," Jang Seok-young, associate minister of ICT policy, said. "To help firms make profits, the government will push ahead a business cooperation plan that can connect the industry with the 5G service industry" Jang added. A model promotes the LG V50 ThinQ 5G smartphone scheduled to hit the Korean market on Friday. / Courtesy of LG Electronics By Jun Ji-hye LG Electronics will launch its first smartphone supporting fifth-generation (5G) network technology, the LG V50 ThinQ 5G, in the domestic market on Friday, the firm said Wednesday. The tech giant had initially planned to launch the phone on April 19, but pushed back the schedule for work to ensure the new product works properly on the next-generation networks. LG's 5G smartphone launch will give consumers more choices as the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G, which hit shelves April 5, has been the only mobile phone supporting 5G so far. With the launch of the new phone, LG Electronics aims to boost the performance of its smartphone unit, which has recorded operating losses for 16 consecutive quarters up to the first quarter of this year. Unveiled at February's Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2019, the phone has a more stable platform and offers rich multimedia features, according to the company. It said it selected the V series as its smartphone for 5G networks, considering users put more emphasis on multimedia features such as games and video clips in the 5G era. The firm has gone all out to boost the display and audio performance of the V50ThinQ 5G, it said, noting that a 6.4-inch organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display offers users a heightened sense of immersion whether they are watching a video or playing a game. Audio also has been upgraded to produce a superb stereo performance that can be enjoyed with or without headphones. The firm started taking pre-orders for the phone for two days from Wednesday, and will offer a Dual Screen worth 219,000 won ($187) free for those who buy the new device by the end of June. LG developed Dual Screen as an optional accessory for the LG V50ThinQ 5G, designed to resemble a cover case, to take user immersion and convenience to new heights. Dual Screen opens up to give V50ThinQ 5G users a second 6.2-inch OLED display for double the viewing, gaming and multitasking experience, the firm said. "We will provide users with more substantial benefits so they can experience excellent performance of the V50ThinQ 5G," said Oh Seong-jin, who is in charge of mobile marketing at LG Electronics. The new product costs 1.2 million won in the domestic market. Volkswagen's Arteon / Courtesy of Volkswagen Korea Import brands blame new certification rule, gov't refutes By Nam Hyun-woo Audi and Volkswagen did not sell any vehicles in Korea last month as the brands have yet to receive environmental certifications in and outside of the country, while they are running out of inventory of popular models, according to industry officials Wednesday. Along with the Volkswagen Group brands, Mercedes-Benz and BMW also saw sharp declines in their sales in the country last month, marking the fourth consecutive month of decreases in the domestic sales of the import brands. According to Korea Automobile Importers & Distributors Association, no new Audi and Volkswagen vehicles were registered in April. They each sold 2,165 and 809 vehicles in April last year. In a monthly comparison, the two brands sold 142 and eight vehicles in March, respectively, but the numbers fell to zero last month, recalling the two brands' sales halt amid the "dieselgate" scandal. In the wake of the emissions fraud, Volkswagen did not sell any cars in Korea from November 2016 to February last year while Audi did not sell any from June to October 2017. The number of sales came after the two brands started "adjusting orders" for new cars due to slow processes in getting environmental certifications. "Currently, the group is improving its internal process for certifications and ordering, and Audi Volkswagen Korea is adjusting orders depending on the domestic situation on certifications," an Audi Volkswagen Korea official said. According to multiple officials of the Korean unit, Volkswagen Group has revamped its own certification system in February and is scrutinizing its vehicles, thus more time was required for the brand to introduce new cars, including the Volkswagen Arteon, in Korea. Separately, Audi Volkswagen Korea is adjusting the volume of its orders depending on the process of the domestic environment authority's certifications, including the new diesel car certification rule, called the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Along with the global introduction of the enhanced rule, Korea also requires diesel cars sold here to receive WLTP certification beginning from Sept. 1 last year. Since the WLTP also requires older models imported or manufactured before Sept. 1 to renew their certification, import brands claim that car brands flocked to the Ministry of Environment to get the certifications for their vehicles. "Along with our internal issues, the WLTP is also affecting the ordering process," the official said. Ulsan Mayor Song Chul-ho speaks at a press conference in Ulsan City Hall, Tuesday, urging Hyundai Heavy Industries Group to reconsider its plan to set up the headquarters of Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering in Seoul. / Yonhap At one point, the following interview was interrupted by a man who recognized its subject. Jeff Ross spoke to the Light on his cellphone while waiting on the street outside his L.A. dentists office. I know you, the man on the street told Ross. Jeff something Goldblum? Since Comedy Central began airing the formerly private New York Friars Club roasts of its members in 1998 later producing its own version Ross has made a name for himself as their undisputed king, brilliantly savaging victims including Donald Trump, William Shatner and Hugh Hefner. This led to his own Comedy Central specials including Jeff Ross Roasts Criminals, Jeff Ross Roasts Cops and Jeff Ross Roasts the Border. Last year, he headlined the main stage of the San Diego County Fair on its closing night. By now, every fan of modern comedy in America knows both Ross name and nickname (Roastmaster General). The only possible reason hes not Jeff Goldbum-famous yet is because not everyone in America is a fan of modern comedy. Ross was born Jeffrey Ross Lifschultz 53 years ago in Newark, New Jersey. As a tyke, his mean uncle Murray picked on him relentlessly but with love. It became a survival technique that helped him through some tragic darkness, including the loss of both his parents while he was only a teenager. Ultimately, it helped him forge an unlikely career path. Ross brings his mean uncle Murrays brand of loving insult comedy to the La Jolla Comedy Store on May 9 and 10. And, by the way, he let that man on the street walk away thinking that he just met Jeff Goldblum. Which historical figure, living or dead, would you most like to roast? That is such a great opening question, because thats what my new Netflix special is about. Its called Historical Roasts and it comes out soon. My answer is Abe Lincoln because America loves him so much, we put him on the only coin we throw in the garbage. Do you think Abe would be a good sport? Everything I ever read about him said that he was a jokester himself. He once insulted a rival politician so much, the man cried, so he had to apologize to him. Who makes you laugh? I dont watch that much standup comedy. But what really cracks me up is when comics try out jokes for the first time and it doesnt go well. Theres nothing funnier to me than watching them tread water and try to land back on their feet. Do you think that becoming an orphan at such an early age gave you comedy superpower? I dont know if it gave me a superpower. Maybe it did. It definitely gave me thick-enough skin to develop that superpower. I think people go through pain and they dont know what its going to become and its up to them to decide. Sometimes, its pain, depression and mental anguish, and sometimes, we work through it and overcome it and it helps get you through life. Thats the theme of my podcast, Thick Skin with Jeff Ross. Having good friends and good therapy really helps, because Im a miserable bastard inside. Was the roasting baton passed to you by someone, or did you wake up one day and find it in bed with you like the horses head in The Godfather? Nobody passed me anything. I had to take it. In 1995, the Friars Club was roasting Steve Seagal. This was before the roasts were televised. They wanted to take a couple of shots with a younger big-mouth and I stepped up and it began to build for me from there. Whats the most misunderstood thing about roasting? You know what drives me crazy? When people say that the jokes write themselves. Because they dont write themselves. Ever. The roasters write the jokes, and its a lot of work. People think I just show up and roast. Yes, I speed-roast people from my audiences off-the-cuff, but for a proper roasting of a celebrity, it takes weeks and weeks of research and writing. How do you feel watching so many comedians having their careers harmed by things they said or wrote in the past? Well, I dont think Twitter is a safe space anymore. I stopped tweeting anything provocative, or particularly sharp. Its now become a place just to promote your shows. I save my venom for the stage. People are just waiting to get offended, and Im offended by people who are always offended. I sell a T-shirt at my shows saying that. Because no one is genuinely offended. Theyre not even following those comics theyre offended by on Twitter. Theyre finding out about them later on. And I find that lame. Do you think more now about the consequences of a joke because of the added scrutiny? Yeah, I think I second-guess. But I have a natural filter. Its like a computer algorithm that goes through my head, like a governor on a race car. It keeps me from going off the rails. But, you know, sometimes I slip, and that should be OK. We need to let comedians take big swings and try stuff and not hold them accountable for every little word that comes out of their mouths. Im sure Picassos rough drafts werent as nice as his finished paintings. And I am the Picasso of roasting. Whats a joke you had to take out because it was too controversial? Usually, I dont take them out. I rework them to make them more palatable. I want everyone to have fun at my shows. I dont want to p*** people off. I want it to be a party. If you were ever chosen to host the Oscars, would you make it through the vetting process? Honestly, Ive been so vetted. Ive been upfront about how Im an equal-opportunity offender. But there are certain words I just dont use and never have. So yeah, Id make it through. If you were roasting La Jolla right now, whats a joke you would use? Lets see. We did a one-night roast battle in La Jolla a couple of years ago that worked out really well. So I would just say that, hopefully, some of your beach bums can put on a shirt long enough to come to my shows at the Comedy Store. IF YOU GO: Jeff Ross appears at the Comedy Store La Jolla, 916 Pearl St., at 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. on Friday, May 10 and Saturday, May 11. Tickets are $25 plus a two-drink minimum. 21 and over only. thecomedystore.com/la-jolla In late October 1968, U.S. Army Corporal Jeffrey Junkins and his best buddy, Sgt. Gary Matson, were installing M16 landmines near Mai-Loc, their Vietnamese base camp. Bouncing Bettys the devices were nicknamed, because they sprang 3 feet into the air before exploding their shrapnel directly into the heads and chests of their doomed trippers. Suddenly, Junkins found himself sprung into the air and flung 20 feet away. After regaining consciousness, he realized that Matson had set off a previously installed Bouncing Betty. He also realized that he was covered in Matsons flesh, brains and teeth many of which had embedded themselves into his skull. Finally, he realized that he was now lying atop another Bouncing Betty one destined to detonate as soon as his body lifted off its pressure sensor. Fellow Green Berets, responding to the explosion, commanded Junkins to lie perfectly still. Several hours of drama transpired as they tried to safely get to him and then to deactivate the landmine. That bomb didnt go off. But on May 14, 1999 20 years ago next Tuesday another one did. Junkins intentionally overdosed on prescription opioids. Good morning, Vietnam Junkins enlisted in 1964, the year after he graduated La Jolla High School, spurred on by President John F. Kennedys ask what you can do for your country speech. This photo shows Junkins at the top-secret Studies and Observations Group at Phu Bai, South Vietnam. He is wearing a helicopter crewmember helmet and protective vest. COURTESY JOHN STRYKER MEYER/'ON THE GROUND' He was very proud of his Vietnam service, said Azad Abbasi, who chatted recently about his old friend in front of Junkins plaque at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial. But it was a double-edged sword because it pretty much broke him. Junkins was in the thick of a secret war waged by the Studies and Observations Group (SOG), a joint unconventional warfare task force operated by the Pentagon from 1964 to 1972. He ran recon missions for the deadliest operation of the entire Vietnam War, said John Stryker Meyer, who befriended Junkins on a Vietnam-bound plane in 1968 and resumed their friendship in California 17 years later. (Meyer wrote a 2007 book about SOG, On the Ground, which details Junkins landmine nightmare.) At one point, SOGs casualty rate exceeded 100 percent, Meyer said, because some people were wounded multiple times. (Junkins earned at least two purple hearts, Meyer said.) Happier times Junkins who would have turned 74 on Valentines Day was raised by an overprotective Jewish mother who divorced his father early on. He had a standard-issue La Jolla childhood loving the outdoors, building up his surfing chops, getting into minor mischief including marijuana. Like all of his former friends interviewed for this article, lifetime La Jolla resident Doug Moranville described Junkins as a good surfer and great person fiercely loyal to his friends, but also just plain fierce if you crossed him. He had a real violent streak I saw once or twice, Moranville said, but never any sadness ever. He was a happy kid. Performing reconnaissance under heavy Viet Cong fire was Junkins final Vietnam mission, though he didnt intend it to be. The impact of the shrapnel literally blew him out of the helicopter as it crashed, irreparably damaging his lower back and hip. Home surf When Junkins returned to La Jolla on Army disability, he hid his chronic pain and dove back into surfing and his old social circles. Bill Fitzmaurice, current president of the Windansea Surf Club, met him on the very first day Fitzmaurice moved to La Jolla from Brazil in 1971. There was this local surfing legend at the time who I was so stoked to get to meet and surf with, Fitzmaurice said, declining to mention the legends name. But he was so obnoxious, so uncool, he cut me off five times and ran me over. So I just walked up to the guy and punched him in the face. Then, Fitzmaurice recalled, he received a hard poke on the shoulder. It was Junkins. I thought I was going to get beaten up and told never to surf Windansea again, he said. Instead, Jeff told me that was the coolest thing hed ever seen and we became friends for the rest of his life. To supplement his disability, Junkins worked manual-labor jobs until 1981, when he and a girlfriend, Helen, founded La Jolla Surf Systems, 2132 Avenida De La Playa which still is operated by Doug Marshall, the owner they eventually sold the business to. That same year, Junkins was elected president of the Windansea Surf Club himself though he only served for a year before forming his own surf club, Club Windansea, which featured a grenade as its logo. I dont know why he formed his own club, Fitzmaurice said. He probably just disagreed with where the main club was going. Jeff was seriously hardcore. He was nuts. In a lot of ways, La Jolla back then was like an insane asylum if the walls fell down and nobody left. Hurt locker As the years since Vietnam turned into decades, Junkins pain got harder to hide. He told me that, in the morning, he couldnt pick up his legs, Meyer said. Maggie (his mother) would have to come in and lift his legs so he could just get out of bed. Friends say his emotional agony was nearly equivalent. Azad Abbasi, wearing his old Club Windansea T-shirt with the grenade logo, speaks about Junkins in front of his late friend's plaque at the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial. COREY LEVITAN He was very functioning and stoic until his late 40s, said Abbasi, who met Junkins when they were neighbors living in the cottages behind Pannikin Coffee & Tea in 1982. Then, things started coming out. Abbasi often asked Junkins about Vietnam, but he said the landmine story never came up until at least a decade into their friendship. I remember he told me that when the paratroopers came over, he could see in their eyes that they were sure he wouldnt make it, Abbasi said. Although the Veterans Administration (VA) now understands how to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, at the time, it was like, Heres some pills, go away, Abbasi said. They were giving him massive quantities of Valium. Whether he was asking for more, I dont know, but it did not help. MIA child Also weighing heavily on Junkins psyche was the daughter he didnt get to see until she was 13 and after that only about 30 more times. A total of a month we spent together, which is incredibly sad when you say it out loud that I only spent a month with my dad, said Amber Sperl, who is now 42 and lives in Phoenix with her own two sons and a daughter. Sperls mother was an earlier girlfriend who dated Junkins for about two years. (Sperl said she doesnt want her name published.) Maggie never wanted my mom to have me, Sperl said. So my mom was very careful not to get back in touch, because she thought Maggie and my dad would take me and she would never see me again. The 30 visits occurred during a brief window of detente around 1990, when Sperls mother took pity on Junkins and decided to give him another chance. She even let him attend Sperls 13th birthday. But my dad was drinking a lot by then, Sperl said. And I know he smoked pot, and all the pills the VA had him on, he just kind of fell off the wagon and my mom cut him off again. After that, Meyer said, Junkins told him he would watch Sperl play in the Muirlands Middle School playground once or twice a week without her knowledge. He had a couple of secret spots to watch her from, Meyer said. It was a very sad situation. For a few years, Junkins dropped off Valentines Day and birthday cards for his daughter at her schools front office. I still have every one of those cards, Sperl said. A few months before his suicide, Abbasi said, Junkins told him: Hey, we should go downtown and Ill put stuff in your name in case something happens to me. I didnt think anything of it at the time, Abbasi said. I was like, Dude, youre only 53. Whats going to happen to you? The signs were there, I just didnt see them. Peace at last Junkins spent his final days focused on getting 100 percent benefits from the VA, with his mother as the beneficiary. It was a long, painful fight, Meyer said. But he got it lined up, and once he did, he bought a nice apartment in La Jolla for them both and that was it. It was the apartment where Maggie found her sons body and the suicide note. The funeral, with 21-gun salute, was at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. Maggie was cremated and interred there herself alongside Junkins only six months later. It didnt surprise me that she went so soon after he did, Abbasi said. They were so close and she was never the same after that. She was very bitter about what Vietnam had done to her son. Sperl didnt even know her father was dead until a year later. She had received a random letter from a company that takes on clients who could be owed money. On a whim, she filled out the form and forgot about it. After receiving a voicemail mentioning the estate of Maggie Junkins, Sperl immediately called back and was told that her grandmother had died and she was her only living heir. Only living heir? Sperl recalled asking the man on the phone. What about my dad?! Junkins friends had tried to reach Sperl to invite her and her mother to the funeral, but couldnt track them down. So the worst news of Sperls life to that point had to be broken to her by a complete stranger. I remember my mom and I just cried, she said. Sperl said she doesnt blame or resent anyone. Its just so unfortunate the way things turned out, she said. We could have been so close today. He could know his three grandchildren. And I guarantee I wouldnt be living in Phoenix. Eliza Virginia Scripps, half-sister to famed La Jolla benefactress Ellen Browning Scripps, may not have her name on a hospital, an oceanographic institution or a foundation, but for the La Jollans who knew her in the early 1900s, she was a spirited character who will be remembered for her eccentricities. Known for her love of purple and a clean community, she went by Miss Virginia and to some, Miss Jenny. Virginia Scripps died April 28, 1921. In honor of the anniversary of her death, La Jolla Light took a look at the life that was. Coming to La Jolla Virginia grew up in Illinois and arrived in La Jolla in 1897 at the age of 45, with her half-sister Ellen. She resided here for more than 20 years. Ellen Browning Scripps biographer Molly McClain explained that though you couldnt find more different sisters than Ellen and Virginia, the two were very close, and it was at Ellens invitation that Virginia came to live in La Jolla. Ellen was a quiet, shy person, who was uncomfortable in social situations, McClain told the Light. Virginia was the exact opposite: loud and opinionated. When the Scripps family compound was built in Miramar, the intention was to have as many relatives live there as possible. The problem was that, family being family, they didnt always get along, McClain explained. And Virginia was known for rubbing people the wrong way. After a time, Ellen didnt want to live in Miramar, so she built a house (called South Moulton Villa) in La Jolla that she called the house for old maids. She invited Virginia and another sister, Annie, to live with her to solve some family issues between them. Annie died soon after the move, but Virginia remained. They lived in Ellens house and built bungalows to house other visiting family members, McClain said. They turned that into their own estate. Virginia came to own Wisteria Cottage, now home to the La Jolla Historical Society gallery (today, it is adorned with purple Wisteria flowers, in honor of Virginias favorite color). Virginia Scripps in front of her home, Wisteria Cottage, 780 Prospect St., now home to the La Jolla Historical Societys galleries. Courtesy Ardent Episcopalian A woman of complexities, Virginia was devoutly religious, yet free-spirited and foul-mouthed. Miss Jenny donated nine acres of land to The Bishops School for its construction in the early 1900s, and consequently, is considered a part of its history. According to The Founders of Bishops page on the schools website: Eliza Virginia Scripps was the spirited, red-haired half-sister of Ellen Browning Scripps. The more outspoken of the Scripps sisters, Miss Virginia was an independent-minded philanthropist, considered an eccentric by most. In 1910, the Bishops Board of Trustees put her in charge of the grounds, which for years had no trees because she disliked the mess they made. (By dropping leaves on the ground, trees were dirty she thought.) She was an amateur naturalist, read broadly in science, and an ardent Episcopalian. In another story from The Bishop School, as documented in La Jolla: A celebration of its past, Patricia Daly-Lipe and Barbara Dawson write: One time, a Bishops student spilled hot tea on Miss Jennys purple satin dress. The terrified student braced herself for the inevitable outburst. Instead, Miss Jenny to the shock of all the ladies present in the parlor removed her gown and proceeded to sip her tea wearing undergarments only. An avid supporter of the school, Virginia also served as a senior mascot and was often seen at school events. Virginia also donated land for St. James By-the-Sea Episcopal Church, and at the same time, was often heard cussing at people from her house into the street because they interrupted her prayers. While St. James was under construction, one story tells of her mounting a pulpit to check the acoustics, but since she could not hear herself over the hammering, she swore at the workers. God d****t! Stop that noise! she yelled. Dont you hear me trying to say The Lords Prayer? Virginia was also known for taking candles from the St. James altar and hiding them because she preferred a low service. In addition to donating the land for St. James, Virginias philanthropy paid for a restoration of the church after her death. Community Cleaner In the 1967 story, The Miss Scripps Nobody Knows, by then-San Diego Union writer Judith Morgan, Virginia was described as a self-styled damned, old crank. According to Morgans writings, Scripps was reportedly often seen walking around town picking up papers thrown on the ground. If she ever saw anyone drop a piece of paper in the street, she ran after them shouting and waving her pocketbook or a stick. She really jumped men for spitting tobacco juice, Morgan writes. In his book, La Jolla Year by Year, Howard S. F. Randolph writes about her: She had the interest of the community much at heart, but her expression of this love was often shown in a strange manner. She loved neatness and order, and woe betide the luckless person who tore up a letter upon leaving the post office, scattering the fragments to the wind. If Virginia saw it, she would compel the criminal to pick up all the pieces and deposit them in a proper container. She had no hesitancy in sweeping out a gutter or a grocery store if she thought it necessary. Quiet Consultant Citing her heart of gold, some have opined that some of the projects for which Ellen Browning Scripps often gets the credit, were actually Virginias doing. Most of Virginias friends believed firmly that she had several ideas that ended up as deeds by the wealthier, gentler, college-educated Ellen Browning Scripps, Morgan writes. Quoting Virginias nephew, Morgan continues: All through life, Virginia would get ideas about civic needs and Miss Ellen who had the fortune would come along and do it. Of course, Ellen had her own projects, but Virginia was a great community person. She cared about La Jolla. For example, Virginias love of the ocean may have inspired Miss Ellen to fund the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. However, McClain notes: We cant know whose idea was what, but Virginia was very involved in philanthropy and enthusiastic about the community, but Ellen was the money. An Avid Traveler Virginia Scripps after a nature outing, circa 1906 Courtesy La Jolla Historical Society historian Carol Olten theorized about Virginias world travels: I think Virginia and Ellen had a great curiosity about the world, probably encouraged initially by their involvement in the Scripps newspapers. Ellen traveled extensively before she retired here and wrote about her adventures for the papers, and Im sure that was the impetus for Virginias sense of adventure later in time. Also, with all the machinations happening around the turn of the 20th century, in terms of ocean-liners, etc., international travel was becoming chic as well as easier. During a notable trip, Virginia wrote her first and last impressions of Japan in two poems: Land of the Rising Sun and Land of the Setting Sun. In the former, she writes: Land of the mountains and of streams, land where sunshine ever gleams, land where Fuji-San sublime, rears her crest forever thine. Toward the end of her life, Virginia planned a trip around the world, with stops in locations such as Jerusalem, India and Egypt. The latter is where she became seriously ill, and was taken to London for care. She died 11 days later of pneumonia. Her Death Although younger than her sister Ellen by 16 years, Virginia died several years before her. Virginia was 68 at the time of her death, while Ellen was 96. According to her obituary, Virginia was well known in La Jolla as one of its most spirited citizens. Although she was cremated in London, a service for her was held at St. James, and 75 Bishops School girls were in attendance. Her Legacy The La Jolla Historical Societys current gallery exhibition, Tangible Memories: Recollections of La Jolla Pioneer Women, includes Virginia Scripps. Artist Tara Smith was influenced by Virginias strength and tenacity and painted three portraits of women with similar spunk for the show. It is on view through May 19 in Virginias former home, Wisteria Cottage, 780 Prospect St. In addition to her contributions to The Bishops School and St. James By-the-Sea, McClain said she thinks Virginias memory lived on in those who knew her. She was much loved, McClain said. For young women in La Jolla, she would have been the Scripps sister who appealed to them. She was modern, vigorous, outgoing, and she shed Victorian trappings and was very much a free-thinking woman. Randolph writes in his book: Virginia was one of those inexplicable people who live from time to time, constituting a law unto themselves ... treasured in memory by many who knew her personally, for her many kindnesses and open-hearted generosity but she is today remembered chiefly for her eccentricities. Just over 100 years after the event was founded and after some cancellations through the years the La Jolla Cove Swim (aka La Jolla Rough Water Swim) will return this year, under a new name La Jolla Open Water Swim. Facilitated by the La Jolla Parks & Beaches advisory group, the one-mile event is slated for 9 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 8 with ingress and egress at The Cove. It will be swam in five heats, based on age. Ive heard people talk about how they wanted the swim to come back because it was such a great event, Parks & Beaches member Judy Adams Halter told the Light. We thought it would be a great opportunity bring back an old tradition. At one point, it was the largest open water swim in the world. We would like to reach that again, but we are starting smaller because we want this to be done right, and build from there. The upcoming swim will be one-mile, and capped at 600 swimmers. Awards will be given to the top three swimmers in their respective categories. But the broader event will be open to the community at large, not just swimmers. We have so many people who care about that park, and bring their families there, who might enjoy the event, she said. We want the La Jolla Open Water Swim to be a full community event and a moment of civic pride. The swim will be run by volunteers to keep costs down, and the plan is to have any early costs underwritten by corporate sponsors and local charity groups. La Jolla Parks & Beaches will hold the funds as sponsor of the event, and use the proceeds to pay for additional maintenance for Scripps Park (75 percent of proceeds) and swim lessons for children in under-served communities (25 percent). I would love for it to always be run by volunteers so the money could go to our parks, Adams Halter said. Sometimes people think the City should just take care of things, but there are more and more private donors coming forth and taking care of its parks. Park maintenance tasks that could be funded include replacing the grass, installing nicer trash cans, adding security at night to patrol the Scripps Park Pavilion restroom when it is constructed, and increased trash pick-up during peak visitor months. La Jolla Parks & Beaches will work with San Diegos Park & Recreation Department to secure the right-of-entry permits and use their contractors for the additional maintenance the community would like to see scheduled. Adams Halter said she has a great team of volunteers willing to help, including those from the La Jolla Cove Swim Club, but is looking for more help on the day of the event. She said corporate underwriters and non-profit organizations with financial support are also needed. Those wishing to donate can send a check to La Jolla Parks & Beaches with Open Water Swim in the subject line: PO Box 185, La Jolla, CA 92038. The La Jolla Rough Water Swim started in 1916, when San Diego was home to the Worlds Fair Pan American Exposition. According to its history: The Worlds Fair Committee challenged each community to showcase the Fair by hosting a special event. La Jollans asked, What better way to share our beautiful seaside community than by hosting an ocean swim? Due to limitations stemming from World War I, the second swim wasnt held until 1923. It became an annual event in 1931, with the exception of: 1935 (due to financial support going to the San Diego Exposition that year); 1948 (due to polio concerns); 1959 (due to an unusual shark sighting); 2014 (when the venue was unavailable due to construction of the La Jolla Cove lifeguard project); and 2016-2017 (due to poor water quality at The Cove). Nestled at the end of Draper Avenue and under the Fay Avenue Bike Path, the Starkey mini-park got some recent TLC from three local Girl Scouts. The work, which the Scouts will submit for their Silver Award, involved painting a hopscotch court, four-square court and walking maze on the cement. The Silver Award is the second highest award the Girl Scouts bestows, and the highest award that a Girl Scout Cadette can earn. Esra Yazici, 13, Kristine Rumbaugh, 13, and Brooke FitzCluster, 14, completed the work over 12 hours on April 28, and a community celebration is being planned. From there, a report will be submitted to the Girl Scouts for Silver Award consideration. Most of us grew up here, so we have walked around this park and saw there were no kids here, Esra explained. We wanted to change that because the Fay Avenue Bike Path runs behind the park and connects to Muirlands Middle School and La Jolla High School, and the La Jolla Elementary School is not that far away, so we were thinking it would be good to revamp this park and see more kids here. Brooke added her mother, Lizzet FitzCluster, sits on the La Jolla Recreation Advisory Group, which influenced the idea. I often go with her to those meetings and I saw how theyre working to revive the La Jolla Rec Center park and I thought of other parks around here that needed some love. My friends use the trail and thought of this place, Brooke said. As to how the three activities were decided, Kristine explained: We thought of fun things kids like to do when they go to places like the Rec Center, it has a hopscotch board, so we took that idea; and kids love doing four-square at our school, so we wanted to have that; and then have a brain-game activity for littler kids, so we did the maze. The process began last fall, Brooke said, and the Scouts had to get the idea approved by the San Diego Department of Park & Recreation, followed by getting the proper permits and gathering the materials. With all the Ts crossed, the girls got to work on April 28 (after walking the grounds several times to determine the best place for each activity). They outlined and painted the lines for these activities using City-approved paint. And the Scouts learned some valuable lessons along the way. Esra explained: When we were first painting, we messed up. The hopscotch court was supposed to be connected in one long line of squares, but it ended up being separate boxes, and we liked it better that way. So I learned that you have to just keep going and change certain things up and be flexible. I learned to how to work with others, and that you can learn from your mistakes. Kristine added: I learned that little things can make a difference, even just some paint on a sidewalk; and how much fun kids can have at their neighborhood parks. A few days ago, we saw little kids using the new features, so it really made us feel good. And the City agrees. Rosalia Castruita, area manager for the Park & Recreation Department, told the Light: The community is going to enjoy this because there are more amenities now besides the bike trail and the playground. It brings more families together and brings back old-school playground structures with the hopscotch board. Hopefully, it gets kids off the iPads and on a four-square court to see what they do! Starkey mini-park sits along Draper Avenue between Gravilla Street and Bonair Way. A community party is being planned to serve as the official grand opening, with details to be announced. Less than a year after the unveiling of the Childrens Pool Plaza, members of the La Jolla Parks & Beaches advisory group (LJP&B) are starting to see it marked with vendors selling their wares. And these vending operations became legal on Jan. 1 following the passage of Senate Bill 946, dubbed the Safe Sidewalk Vending Act. However, LJP&B is looking to regulate sidewalk vending in La Jolla, and discussed its efforts at the April 22 meeting at the Rec Center. Authored by State Senator Richard Lara, the bill prohibits a local authority from regulating sidewalk vendors and was signed by former California Gov. Jerry Brown. SB 946 is now a law that applies to vendors who sell food and merchandise from a cart, a stand, or other fixture on public right-of-ways, explained LJP&B trustee Bob Evans. And were already seeing an increase in Scripps Park and near Childrens Pool. In the course of his research, Evans said: I found a number of cities that have enacted local regulations that keep the law, but create rules specific to their communities. I think the regulations are good news because they put a damper, if not a complete eradication, of vending in our parks, Evans said. In Los Angeles, no street vending is allowed near large event venues and all vendors require a permit. Carlsbad has concerns about vending at parks for reasons that include an undue concentration of commercial activity and protecting those engaged in recreation. However, the city with the strictest regulations is the one Evans is most in favor of replicating: Carmel-by-the-Sea. Its limits include no vending within 25 feet of a fire hydrant or public-use item such as bike rack, bench or restroom; the conduct of the vendors cannot interfere with traffic or pedestrian movement, or tend to interfere with or endanger public peace; and curbs the number of vending permits issued in select areas. Further, Evans noted, Carmel-by-the-Sea has areas that are like Childrens Pool, Scripps Park and La Jolla Shores, and because the regulations are working there, they should work here. He said a letter would be drafted and presented to the board next month for approval, and then sent to the City Attorney and Department of Park & Rec and City Council in support of Carmel-by-the-Seas rules being implemented here. However, there was the lingering question of enforcement. LJP&B trustee John Shannon said: One of the most important things about having rules is a way to enforce them. What we know is we have laws that say you cant go more than eight miles per hour on a boardwalk while riding an electric scooter, which is not being enforced, so what (entity) would enforce vendor rules? I think there needs to be strong language in the letter and the rules. Evans replied, to chuckles from the room: I think the simplest solution is to have park rangers enforce these rules. The board applauded Evans for his efforts and agreed to await the correspondence before a vote. The La Jolla Shores Association previously voted to join LJP&B in its effort to find appropriate vending regulations for the area. It is unknown when it will discuss and/or vote on the recommendations. Also at Parks & Beaches Palms project: The board has raised about half the money needed to trim the dried beards of the palm trees at 300 Coast Blvd. about which residents have expressed concerns. Trustee Evans reported after collecting a series of estimates, the total would be about $1,200. We have pledges from one local condos HOA and one other individual, he said. The board would also like to see contributions from nearby residents who want the trees trimmed. In the meantime, Evans said he has applied for a right-of-entry permit, and is waiting for a response from the City. The issue is a grouping of palm trees that have not been trimmed for years with drooping dried fronds. Because of its proximity to a nearby belvedere where people reportedly smoke, some have expressed concern about the dried trees being a fire hazard. The palm trees for which La Jolla Parks & Beaches is collecting funds to trim. (Light File) Childrens Pool beach access: Although trustee John Leek sent a letter to the Department of Park & Rec on his own against the renewal of the permit to close Childrens Pool during harbor seal pupping season, the LJP&B board voted to also sign their names and submit a letter that had been approved by the La Jolla Community Planning Association (LJCPA) earlier this year. The Coastal Commission will hear a permit extension request in June for the installation of a guideline rope, including support posts, foundations, informational signs a three-foot opening to provide beach and ocean access and to create a buffer between humans and harbor seals that haul out on the La Jolla Childrens pool beach through Aug. 14, 2029 and closure of Childrens Pool beach to all public access during harbor seal pupping season (Dec. 15 to May 15) through Aug. 14, 2029. The letter states, in part: Please reject the Citys application for beach closure permit extensions without imposing intended improvement standards. Instead, require a better beach management plan that accommodates all users of the beach with clean sand and water. The Childrens Pool Beach closure was an extreme measure which has encouraged colonization by more seals at Childrens Pool and nearby beaches. This will only lead to more demands for more closed beaches as popular urban recreational beaches are occupied by the growing seal population. This is of great concern to the La Jolla Community Planning Association and anyone wanting to maintain and improve coastal access in La Jolla. LJP&B Tom Brady opined that the letter: confirms (this boards opinion as stated in) a letter from May 2015. It states, in part, that this board opposes the continued presence of the rope barrier. This is a consistent position. However, the board was not entirely unified in its opposition. Animal rights advocate Jane Reldan said with the barrier and closure: There has been peace and quiet. The seals have been protected when they need it most and they are not disturbed when people access the beach, because of the viewing guideline rope. I believe the City is in its rights to apply for a 10-year permit extension, since the five year permit has obviously worked. The motion to sign LJP&Bs name to the letter and submit it to the Coastal Commission passed, with Reldan in opposition. Scripps Park picnic area: A project to renovate the picnic area of Scripps Park is on hold. The board had asked creative architect (as referenced by trustee Patrick Ahern) Erik Holtsmark to come up with a design to revitalize the area. But, some of his ideas were a little too creative, such as replacing the existing tables with nautical-themed seating structures. An earlier facet of the plan was to remove the trees, but that was quickly struck down. Dynes said other ideas were more complicated than most of the people on the committee would like to see. As such, she said the plan is off the table for now and dead for the moment. La Jolla Parks & Beaches next meets 4 p.m. Monday, May 20 (one week earlier than usual due to the Memorial Day holiday) at the Rec Center, 615 Prospect St. lajollaparksbeaches.org Nacogdoches, TX (75965) Today Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 64F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 64F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Will Katie Hopkins Stand for BrExit Party in Elections After Helping Destroy UKIP? Katie Hopkins darling of the far right latest tweets are alluding to her preparing to make the leap from UKIP to the Brexit Party. After all UKIP effectively died in the local elections, so a case of mission accomplished for the Trojan Horse that are Katie Hopkins and Tommy Robinson, who successfully turned what should have been a UKIP local elections victory in the wake of Westminster Brexit chaos into an even worse performance than that of the Tories, by losing more than 80% of their councilors to end the night down 145 councilors with just 31 left. A TOTAL DISASTER! Which should not come as much surprise to those who follow my analysis as I forewarned what to expect in electoral terms of the impact of Trojan Horse right win fanatics for the fundamental fact is that elections are won at the margins and not by preaching extreme messages to die hard supporters as they would have voted for UKIP regardless. 29 Mar 2019 - UK INDEPENDENCE DAY CANCELLED! As Westminster SUBVERTS BREXIT! Brexit Master Nigel Farage understands this which is why he will storm the European elections by winning at least 25 seats! Literally going from nothing to 25+ seats all within a couple of months of the launch of his Brexit Party! A true electoral genius, who unlike the idiot in charge of UKIP understands that the likes of Katie Hopkins and Tommy Robinson are toxic to political parties. Katie Hopkins reading between the lines understands that if she wants power and money, after all MEP's get upwards of 300k per year! And then there's the next general election to consider for which the Brexit Party will be looking for 640 candidates to stand! And so Katie will likely ditch UKIP and seek to dig her fangs into Nigel Farage's Brexit Party. Hence her recent conversion to the Brexit party. So who is Katie Hopkins and why would she be toxic for the Brexit Party. For one thing this hate preacher really hates muslims, REALLY hates them, in fact has gone so far as calling for a 'final solution' for Britain's muslim population. For the few who do not know what the 'final solution' means. It was the NAZI policy for the extermination of European Jews by varied means that culminated in the gas chambers and incineration ovens of the concentration camps. Which is what Katie Hopkins implied for Britain's muslim population and which was rebroadcast across the mainstream media, so that everyone was fully aware of Katie Hopkins sentiments, especially as this was just one in a literal avalanche of tweets directed against Britain's muslim population. The following tweet cost her job at the LBC. And here Katie likens Palestinians to filthy rodents. It's Ramadan so Katie vomits - Whilst Britain celebrates the birth of Prince Harry's son, here's what went through Katie's mind when they got wed. Katie's view of muslims in general Katie's view of people in debt. Which is ironic given her own dire financial history which includes applying for insolvency so as to avoid bankruptcy, pot kettle black comes to mind. Katie's view of Scottish people Katie mocking disabled people Even popular black actors aren't immune from her venom. And on I could continue to illustrate who Katie Hopkins is and why she would be toxic for the Brexit Party. Therefore Katie Hopkins may dream about getting her venomous fangs into the BrExit Party, but I am sure Nigel Farage is far smarter than the likes of Batton, and understands full well just how toxic she would be for the Brexit Party's electoral chances, just as she and Tommy Robinson have been for UKIP, which in the recent local elections effectively died! Nadeem Walayat http://www.marketoracle.co.uk Copyright 2005-2019 Marketoracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd). All rights reserved. 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. We attempted to send a notification to your email address but we were unable to verify that you provided a valid email address. Please click here to update your email address if you wish to receive notifications. Otherwise, you may click here to disable notifications and hide this message. Former CEO of Lynch, Jones & Ryan brokerage now works to improve the business district of Fifth Avenue in New York City. Welcome to Morningstar.co.uk! You have been redirected here from Hemscott.com as we are merging our websites to provide you with a one-stop shop for all your investment research needs.To search for a security, type the name or ticker in the search box at the top of the page and select from the dropdown results.Registered Hemscott users can log in to Morningstar using the same login details. Similarly, if you are a Hemscott Premium user, you now have a Morningstar Premium account which you can access using the same login details. EyeSee Opens London Office Behavioural research specialist EyeSee has opened an office in London, to be run by former Nielsen exec Payal Patel who joins in the role of Director of Business Development. EyeSee uses online eye tracking, facial coding, virtual shopping, and surveys to measure the impact of shopper marketing, advertising, digital solutions and innovations. Headquartered in Ghent, Belgium and New York, the firm also has offices in Paris and Belgrade, and employs around 90 staff. Payal (pictured) joins the company at its new office in Aldgate after eight years at Nielsen, where she latterly served as Media Analytics Sales Specialist. Prior to this, she worked for neuromarketing business Nielsen NeuroFocus, latterly as a Senior Manager in Mumbai, having earlier worked for Nielsen's BASES innovation division as a Senior Research Analyst. Commenting on the expansion to London, Joris De Bruyne, EyeSee's Partner who oversees sales in Europe, comments: 'The UK is a leading global CPG and food and beverages market in which we have developed solid partnerships by providing cutting edge behavioural insights to companies such as Kimberly-Clark, McDonalds, Coty and Muller. We look at this as a step towards establishing even closer relationships, opening up to new industries and projecting opportunities locally'. Web site: www.eyesee-research.com . Liveminds Opens in Manila, Plans September Launch in US London-based research technology firm Liveminds has opened a new office in Manila, in the Philippines, and it will open its first US office in Chicago in September. The firm has also made a number of appointments and promotions across the business. Liveminds' 'Behavioural Recruitment' approach, which was awarded Best Support Service in last year's Market Research Society (MRS) Operations Awards, is used to find research participants matched on social media networks, powered by big data on two billion people in 190 countries. Company co-founder Hugh Carling (pictured) explains that the company provides a single point of contact who directly manages clients' whole recruit, and can provide multi-market quotes within 24 hours. Through an undisclosed amount of private investment combined with revenue growth of 117% from Behavioural Recruitment in the last financial year, Liveminds has been able to open the new office in Manila, where Poch Gutierrez has joined as Behavioural Recruitment Executive, and Paul Corpuz has joined as a Developer. Once the new US office opens, Erica Siebert, will move back to Chicago to lead the US Account Management team, after a year at Liveminds' HQ. Back in London, Lizzie Cree has been promoted to the newly created role of Head of Operations, Henry Dann heads up business development as Account Team Leader, and George Silk has joined as Account Executive. In addition, Emma Lawson heads up the Behavioural Recruitment team with responsibility for new team members Shannon Pywell, Kia Pettitt-Brandtner and Josh Booth. Web site: www.liveminds.com . I did not authorise payment for ... MERIDEN A 66-year old city man faces charges after police said he asked to borrow his ex-girlfriends car to go to the store and instead drove to Florida. Angel Rosado, 66, of 27 Hartington St., was charged Monday with second-degree larceny. On Dec. 27, 2018 a woman reported that Rosado, her ex-boyfriend, took her 2017 Nissan Versa, saying he was going to the store, according to a police report. He never returned and when she talked to him two days later he said he took the car to Florida to visit a relative in the hospital. After that, he failed to return any of her calls, the report said. The car is valued at about $20,000. Rosado was arraigned in Meriden Superior Court on Tuesday. The judge released him on a promise to appear and continued the case to June 5. Lauren Sellew UW-Madison research team finds new ways to generate stem cells more efficiently MADISON -- Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells are among the most important tools in modern biomedical research, leading to new and promising possibilities in precision medicine. To create them requires transforming a cell of one type, such as skin, into something of a blank slate, so it has the potential to become virtually any other kind of cell in the body, useful for regenerative therapies for everything from heart disease to diabetes. However, current methods to induce pluripotency are inefficient: In a batch of 100 cells slated for reprogramming, only five or so complete the transition. A new study published today [May 7, 2019] in Cell Reports by a team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Wisconsin Institute for Discovery (WID) and School of Medicine and Public Health could improve that efficiency. It describes combined laboratory and computational methods that lead to better completion of pluripotency, a faster process, and improved understanding of how cells become reprogrammed from one cell type to another, for instance, transforming a skin cell to a cardiac cell. And it includes some surprises, the authors say. "The cells undergoing reprogramming do not have to do so in a stepwise manner," says graduate student Zafirah Zaidan, one of the study's lead authors. Traditionally, scientists thought certain steps must occur sequentially during reprogramming. This was based on measures of gene expression across entire populations of cells at various time points, leading to average expression profiles for the whole group. They thought that for a cell to be successfully reprogrammed, the -genes that code for the specific functions of the differentiated cell (skin) must be suppressed, or "turned off", before researchers could turn on their ability to become the new type of cell (cardiac). But when study leader Rupa Sridharan, a professor of cell and regenerative biology at WID who studies the epigenetics of cell fate, began to examine single cells at a time, a technique known as scRNA-seq, her research team found that individual cells can activate properties of pluripotency without shutting down their differentiated features. In other words, a skin cell doesn't have to completely give up being a skin cell before it can begin the journey to becoming a cardiac cell. Sridharan's team worked with algorithms developed by co-author Sushmita Roy, professor of biostatistics and medical informatics at WID, to perform the analyses. Roy is an expert in using statistical computational methods to identify regulatory gene networks, the collection of genes and the molecules that modify them that interact during development, cell differentiation, and in response to environmental clues. "scRNA-seq is revolutionizing biology and is opening up a lot of opportunities to gain a high-resolution view of gene regulatory networks," says Roy. The insight allowed the research team to spot differences emerging between individual cells, which Roy says is only the beginning. The tool can be applied to other, similar biological questions, such as understanding how functional cells become tumorous. "There is a lot of room to develop the right type of computational tools to fully unlock the potential of these single-cell RNA-seq datasets," she says. Meanwhile, Sridharan says that cells that can turn on pluripotency without shutting off their differentiated features may be good candidates for completing the transition. Focusing on such cells may be a path to greater efficiency. Her lab has already had success using drugs that help overcome barriers to efficient reprogramming by modulating signaling and other gene regulation pathways. These include a new cocktail of small molecules that can jump-start the cell cycle in iPS cells, helping them arrive more quickly at their new fates. The study finds this can increase the success rate to around 40 percent and shorten the time scale of induced pluripotency. Sridharan says that adding molecules that down-regulate differentiation features could further improve efficiency, though the study did not test this. Profiling the epigenome at the single-cell level will allow her to determine which genes are poised to change expression before that expression even begins. Roy's algorithms also gave insight into how the regulatory networks change as the chemical cocktail changes. Identifying what small molecules to add next may be the key to unlocking further gains in efficiency. By combining laboratory and computational tools, Sridharan asks: "Can we rationally come up with what that molecule should be?" The answer might shape the future of regenerative therapies and precision medicine. ### Nolan Lendved, nolan.lendved@wid.wisc.edu, 608-316-4676 This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Sunitha natti By Express News Service CHENNAI : The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 was designed to approach debt resolution with a grown-up attitude as opposed to taking baby steps. Despite smoothing out kinks, the framework leaves much to be desired. The iron curtain that once prevented creditors from making meaningful recoveries which was a dismal 25.7 cents to a dollar as on 2016 were supposed to get better. But, after nearly three years, most cases are stuck in procedural delays and litigation. The upshot, however, is that wilful defaulters are now barred from wresting back control. So are promoters who missed repayments, wilful or otherwise, though severe lobbying is taking place behind the scenes as a section of the industry argue that some defaults could be genuine, and hence shouldnt be painted with the same brush. Others reason that such a window could appeal to losers latching onto companies destined for the scrap heap without an effective turnaround plan. For decades, the system has been doing just that: protecting debtors and allowing assets to rust away. As Asias richest banker Uday Kotak once pointed out, prior mechanisms were unreasonable since one had to wait till the cows came home to realise the debt. Unlike in the past, the IBC makes the distinction between insolvency and bankruptcy, and malfeasance and failure. However, its implementation continues to be a challenge. Theres a high cost to default or business failure and the Code in its current form, even after two years of existence, is a skeletal structure. The flesh and blood was to be provided by successful resolution, which is currently far and few between. Though IBC had a good start, the battle is only half won. Two years is probably too short for a verdict, but one thing is clear: for borrowers, the days of cheese paring debt are over. If a company has to survive, borrowers have to repay or make way for someone else. Jayanta Roy Chowdhury By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The Central government has kick-started the pre-budget exercise, with ministries preparing their budget wish lists, even as the nationwide elections are underway. However, this is a planned exercise as the permanent bureaucracy knows that once the new government is in place, it will be in a hurry to place a budget before the parliament and get it passed. We need to keep background papers ready for whichever government that swears in after elections; ministries have been asked to keep their papers ready, said a top official. The Narendra Modi government had come out with an interim budget ahead of elections and norms for a full-year budget are to be placed before the parliament by early July, soon after the new government swears in. While all ministries feed into the budget-making process, most of the work is concentrated in finance and commerce ministries. Some of the abiding themes in all budgets, regardless of the government in power, have been rationalising or simplifying taxes, correcting the inverted duty structure in import duties and using taxation and subsidies to encourage Indian manufactures. So, our budget-planning will assume that these will remain an integral part of the new budget, the official explained. However, the crux of the challenge before commerce ministry mandarins is designing schemes to push Indias export sector, while protecting domestic manufactures from imports. Powerful trade partners like the US, European Union and Japan are increasingly taking India to task, demanding lowering of import duties and subsidies to Indian exports. For instance, officials said they have been forced to start work on a drastically modified export promotion scheme, which would cut duty drawbacks that are globally considered subsidies and have been targeted by the US in a complaint with the WTO. Others including the EU, Brazil, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Canada and Egypt have joined forces with the US on this. The schemes are being re-designed so that they do not function as export subsidies. Duty drawbacks are basically taxes foregone and that is considered a prohibited subsidy by WTO. We will have to rework our whole duty regime now, said Prof Biswajit Dhar of JNU. One way out is to lower, and in some cases eliminate, duties on imports that feed into our exports. It would help ease pressures from our trade partners who are demanding lower duties on their exports to us, while making our exports more competitive, said Dhar. CHALLENGE BEFORE COMMERCE MINISTRY The crux of the challenge for commerce ministry mandarins is in designing schemes to push Indias export sector, while protecting domestic manufactures from imports. Powerful trade partners like the US, European Union and Japan are increasingly taking India to task,demanding lowering of import duties and subsidies to Indian exports. By Express News Service BENGALURU: A city-based consumer forum ordered Udaan India Pvt Ltd, a visa facilitation company, to pay over Rs 1.25 lakh for not getting transit visas for clients abroad. According to the order, Udaan India Private Limited has to pay Rs 65,188 with 12 per cent interest from March 4, 2018 to the complainants Payal Kesharwani and Manju Keshari residents of Marathahalli. This amount is towards purchasing fresh tickets from Madrid to Mumbai to Bengaluru. In addition to this, Udaan has to pay Rs 60,000. It includes Rs 25,000 for inconvenience caused, Rs 25,000 for damages and Rs 10,000 for litigation expenses. In the order, the Bangalore Additional District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, comprising president H R Srinivas and member D Suresh observed that its quite natural that the complainants have suffered humiliation. It also highlighted how the complainants suffered both physically and mentally. According to the complaint, they availed the service to obtain Schengen visa to go to Spain by paying Rs 17,050 on January 27, 2018. They booked the ticket from Madrid (Spain) to Mumbai via London, where they had to change the aircraft. However, Udaan never intimated to apply for a transit visa through UK, as their return flight to Mumbai from Madrid was via London. Since they did not have a transit visa, they were denied boarding in Madrid on March 4, 2018 and their luggage was taken for transportation. It was very embarrassing, that too in a foreign country to be without a visa. There was confusion at the airport also as the checked-in baggage was not off loaded and as a result we had to spend that night in a Madrid hotel without our luggage. It was frustrating, the complainants claimed. The complainants have also stated that due to the negligence and carelessness of Udaan, they could not return to India and Bengaluru in time. They had to spend Rs 70,000 to book new flight tickets to India via Brussels. As in the European country, no transit visa is required for a room at a hotel. The complainants landed at Mumbai on March 6, 2018 and reached Bengaluru on the same day. By Express News Service BENGALURU: Until a few years ago,going to Belgium would have only been a far-fetched dream for 29-year-old Sneha Rakesh. Growing up in Hullenahalli, a remote village in CR Patna taluk of Hassan district,Rakesh could barely imagine that one day she would be the lone Indian to present her ideas on rural entrepreneurship as one of the under-40 changemakers at the Europe India Business Leaders Conference in European Parliament. But persistence pays and dreams do come true, which Rakesh the founder of Samagraabhivruddhi, an NGO which helps rural entrepreneurs, by training rural youth for free and empowering them stand on their own feet will agree with. Brought up by her grandparents, Rakesh recalls struggling with funds and studying under a tree at a school which lacked basic facilities. After studying engineering at MS Ramaiah Institute of Technology, she was rejected by over 20 companies at campus placements. All these challenges, only strengthened her belief of wanting to promote rural entrepreneurship. Which is when she decided to take the plunge and start a company of her own. She then founded her own firm called Akarmaxs, in her hometown, which dealt in software development. In order to realise her dream, she even had to borrow `12 lakh from friends. But later, owing to lack of facilities in her hometown, she decided to shift base to Bengaluru in 2017 to start her NGO in Basavangudi training more than 2,000 students in technical courses. The need of the hour in order to ensure development. There are hardly any facilities to train them. There arent even any skill training programmes to help them realise their dreams of establishing their own business, says Ramesh, adding that meeting global leaders who are changing the way of technology reaches commoners has also made her realise this is an area that needs work. Now, she plans to use her experience to further train the students at the NGO, such as holding meetings with global leaders like UK parliamentarians Virendar Singh, and Caroline Nagtegaal. In addition, she is also working on providing Wi-Fi facilities in rural areas, for which she is in talks with clients in Belgium. With a capacity of nearly 12,000 TEUs, Wan Hai 805 became the first and largest container ship anchored at the northern port to date. First container ship anchored at Hai Phong International Container Terminal (Source: VNA) The ship, belonging to a joint venture of Taiwans Wan Hai Lines, Chinas COSCO Shipping, and Singapores Pacific International Lines, provides direct services from the northern region of Vietnam to the west coast of the US. Its service helps cut freight time from 25 to 19 days compared with the previous method of trans-shipment at foreign ports. Deputy Transport Minister Nguyen Van Cong said that the birth of the HICT marked an important milestone in the development of the deep-water port system in northern Vietnam in general and Hai Phong city in particular. The welcoming of container ship Wan Hai 805 makes the HICT one of the 20 largest ports in the world, he added. Previously on April 11th, the terminal welcomed mother vessel Northern Jaguar deployed by Ocean Network Express. With a capacity of more than 8,800 TEUs, the vessel provides direct services from the north of Vietnam to the west coast of the US and Canada. Its service will cut down freight time from Hai Phong to the US and Canada as the previous route called in at overseas trans-shipment hubs, reducing the journey from 25 down to 17 days, thus attracting more transit cargo./. By Express News Service CHENNAI: Unabated illegal extraction of water in Madambakkam has residents worried that their groundwater will be depleted even before the onset of summer. Residents tried putting an end to one of the greediest water extraction operations in the town along the Paduvanchery Main Road on Tuesday but failed miserably. Around 500 lorries of water is extracted from two agricultural wells every day and sold in various parts of the city for very high prices, said a resident of Paduvanchery. Videos taken by the residents who tried to stop the operations show the tanker lorry drivers unfazed by the opposition. They told us they dont care about complaints to the town panchayat or the police, the residents said, claiming that the water extraction there has political backing and support of the town panchayat. This comes even as the executive officer of the Madambakkam Town Panchayat issued a notice last week against illegal extraction of water in the region. The notice pointed out that the entire Kancheepuram district was reeling under water shortage and that the town panchayat had received complaints about extraction of water from private wells for commercial purposes. The notice even warned of action against violators. The residents, however, claimed the notice has had no effect in the area.Since these lorries end up catering to the massive demand for water among influential localities, the officials remain quiet, claimed another resident of Madambakkam. When contacted, Ganesan, the executive officer of Madambakkam Town Panchayat, conceded that illegal extraction of water is a major problem in the area. After I received complaints from residents about the extraction of water in Paduvanchery, I have informed the police, Ganesan said. Residents of Madambakkam have already approached the Madras High Court to stop a controversial government project which plans to extract 20 lakh litres of water every day to supply the nearby Chitlapakkam Town, and are forced to contend with illegal extraction of water as well. By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Lending her support to Atishi in East Delhi constituency, Bollywood actor Swara Bhaskar said the AAP candidate is a politician who strives to work for the public and not for fame. Along with Gujarat MLA Jignesh Mevani, the actor joined the AAP candidate during a bike rally in Shastri Park area. Atishi has proved herself by contributing to the education sector. She is a politician who works for the people. She is not contesting polls with any ulterior motives, Bhaskar said. I am not a member of any party, but I am campaigning for candidates who focus on development issues and for democratic values, she asserted. The actor had also campaigned for CPI(M) candidate Amra Ram in Sikar, Rajasthan, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh in Bhopal and CPI candidate Kanhaiya Kumar at Begusarai in Bihar. Atishi is pitted against BJP candidate Gautam Gambhir and Congress Arvinder Singh Lovely. During Atishis bike rally, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also in the same constituency campaigning for Gambhir. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Meanwhile, actors Gul Panag and Prakash Raj campaigned for AAP South Delhi candidate, Raghav Chadha, urging people to vote for a capable representative for their constituency and not to reach polling booths keeping prime ministerial candidates in mind.People need to realise that their vote is not for the prime minister, but for a candidate, who is aware of their problems. You are not electing the prime minister, you are electing your local representative, Raj said. Actor-turned-politician Raj had also supported AAP chief Arvind Kejriwals demand of full statehood for Delhi.There are many questions that need to be answered, but one will only get answers if your representative is accountable, approachable and is answerable towards you, Panag said as she campaigned for the AAPs South Delhi candidate. Siddhanta Mishra By Express News Service NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath played the patriotism card to the hilt on Tuesday as he canvassed for BJPs East Delhi candidate Gautam Gambhir at Mandawli area. Masood Azhar has been declared an international terrorist by the United Nations. This happened only because of PM Narendra Modi. It means that he will meet the same fate as of Osama Bin Laden. Yoga has been recognised worldwideThis is also because of Modi ji, Yogi said at a modest rally in East Delhi. Congress shehzadi (Priyanka Gandhi) is teaching children of Amethi on how to abuse. Please go and teach these abuses in Italy. The rally was planned strategically at Mandwali as about 30 per cent of the residents are Uttaranchalis (those who trace their roots to the hill state of Uttarakhand). The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, whose real name is Ajay Mohan Bisht, hails from a village in Uttarakhands Pauri Garhwal. The BJPs star campaigner also took potshots at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in his speech. The AAP government has turned Delhi into a city of potholes and has hurt the sentiments of people of the city. Kejriwal has nothing to do with vikas (development) and he does not have any interest in working in collaboration with the central government for the betterment of the national capital, he said. Kejriwal attacked the Congress over corruption and dishonesty before gaining power and now he is desperate to forge an alliance with the same party, he said. Their reality is before the public. Democracy or politics done without values and ideals is dangerous for the country. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE The UP CM also hit out at the Congress, saying it has failed as a party and is staring at defeat even in its bastion Amethi in Uttar Pradesh, represented by Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Congress has failed because it does negative politics. And after the prince (Rahul Gandhi), it fielded its princess (Priyanka Gandhi Vadra). And what happened after that...they are staring at a defeat in Amethi too, he claimed. S Viswanath By Express News Service VIJAYAWADA: Putting an end to the two-month-long suspense, Governor ESL Narasimhan on Tuesday cleared the name of Vijayawada-based hotelier Ilapuram Raja for appointment as Information Commissioner. However, he kept pending the file on the appointment of E Sriram Murthy, a former revenue official and president of several employees associations. The State government recommended Raja and Murthy for appointment as Information Commissioners in March. However, sources in Raj Bhavan said while the Governor cleared the name of Raja, he sought some clarification on Murthys appointment. Sources said though the government had sent the file to the Governor recommending the appointment of the two as Information Commissioners on March 7, it was returned after the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into force on March 10. Later, the screening committee, headed by the CEO, expressed the view that the MCC would not come in the way of their appointment as the State government had completed the selection process before the code came into effect. Following this, the government once again sent the file to the Governor. An official order on Rajas appointment is expected to come soon. Raja did civil engineering from VR Siddhartha Engineering College, Vijayawada, and went on to complete MBA with specialisation in International Business from New Hampshire College, USA. While helping his father run Hotel Ilapuram, a three-star hotel, he developed contacts with influential people from various walks of life. Under the banner of Ilapuram Seva Samithi, he organised philanthropic activities such as the distribution of notebooks to poor students, fruits and bread to patients in government hospitals apart from organising felicitation functions for freedom fighters, birth anniversary celebration of Mahatma Gandhi, etc. One of his major service projects included the distribution of clothes to 10,000 poor widows in Vijayawada. He is actively involved in setting up BC Aikya Vedika, a social organization, which works for the overall development of weaker sections of the society. As president of Vijayawada Hotel Owners Association, he helped solve many problems facing the industry.In association with the Andhra Telugu Association and sitting MLA and Assembly Deputy Speaker Mandali Buddha Prasad, he worked for the development of the Telugu language.He earlier served as a member of Central Board of Film Certification and member, Food Corporation of India (FCI). Raja known for philanthropy Raja did civil engineering from VR Siddhartha Engineering College and went on to complete MBA with specialisation in International Business from New Hampshire College, USA. Under the banner of Ilapuram Seva Samithi, he organised philanthropic activities such as distribution of notebooks to students and food to patients By PTI NEW DELHI: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Wednesday met Congress President Rahul Gandhi and discussed plans to hold a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21, two days ahead of Lok Sabha results to chalk out a post-poll alliance. Naidu met Gandhi before heading out to West Bengal to attend public rallies in support of the ruling Trinamool Congress in the state, sources said. In a brief meeting, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is believed to have discussed the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue, voting percentage in the recently held five phase polling besides the Andhra Assembly election developments, the sources said. FOLLOW OUR FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE The sources said Naidu and Gandhi also discussed the post-poll scenario and more or less agreed to call a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21. The Lok Sabha elections are being held in seven phases. So far, polling in five phases are over and the counting of votes will be on May 23. Naidu will be meeting West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee apart from attending her rallies on Wednesday and Thursday. The Andhra Pradesh CM was in Delhi to attend the Supreme Court hearing on a petition filed by the Opposition parties to review its judgment rejecting 50 per cent random physical verification of EVMs using VVPATs. The apex court dismissed the petition following which the parties again met the Election Commission to press their demand. By PTI GWALIOR: Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said the Rafale deal would be probed if his party came to power after the Lok Sabha elections and claimed the inquiry would throw up two names - that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Anil Ambani. Gandhi once again challenged Modi for a debate on the Rafale deal at any place "except Ambani's residence" and maintained the prime minister would not be able to face the country as truth in the deal would surface. Addressing a poll rally here, Gandhi also raked up the 1999 release of Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar to attack Modi over the issue of nationalism. FOLLOW OUR FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Raising questions over why the contract related to Rafale was awarded to Ambani, Gandhi asked Modi to come clear on why the fighter jet was purchased at Rs 1,600 crore (per plane) from France by the NDA govement as against Rs 526 crore negotiated by the Congerss-led UPA regime. "You (Modi) won't be able to debate with me on the issue for 15 minutes. You won't be able to stand before India. Remember one thing, no can be saved from the truth. There would be probe into the Rafale scam and two names will come: Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani," Rahul said. ALSO READ| Will bring petrol and diesel within ambit of GST: Rahul Gandhi In the past, Ambani has claimed the government had no role in his company, Reliance Defence, getting an offset contract related to the Rafale deal. On the release of Jaish-e-Mohammed founder Azhar, Gandhi said it was a BJP, and not a Congress, government that had released the terrorist. "The BJP government took the terrorist out from India's jail, put him aboard a plane, BJP's minister took the (same) flight and BJP's minister gave money to Jaish-e- Mohammed. And the same terrorist killed CRPF men in Pulwama. Modi should answer who did this job," Gandhi said. Azhar and two other terrorists were set free by the Vajpayee government in exchange of hostages of the IC-814 Indian Airlines flight hijacked to Kandahar in December 1999. Azhar later went on to set up the Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror outfit that claimed responsibility for the February 14 suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama. ALSO READ| Varanasi village restricts Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's entry Gandhi also hit out at BJP leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for alleging that farmers have not received benefits of the loan waiver announced by the Kamal Nath government in the state. To drive home his point, the Congress chief said Chouhan's brothers were among those who had received loan waiver. Gandhi talked about the party's Nyay scheme, a minimum income guarantee programme that envisaged giving Rs 72,000 per year to five crore poor families of the country. He said that the Congress will ensure farmers are not jailed in the event their failure to repay debts, if it is voted to power. Gwalior is among the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that will vote on May 12. Rajesh Asnani By Express News Service JAIPUR: A Dalit woman was allegedly gang-raped in Rajasthan by five men after they tied up her husband, in Thanagaji area of Alwar district. The men made a video of the incident and it has gone viral on social media. The role of the police is under investigation as some social activists and protesters allege that even after registering an FIR, the police did not take any action for four days because of elections on May 6. After the video went viral, protesters gathered in Thanagaji on Tuesday and demanded immediate arrest of the culprits and action against the guilty policemen for the delay in probing the case. State DGP Kapil Garg said that one of the accused, Inder Raj Gurjar, a truck driver, had been arrested. The other accused were his friends and they were also truck drivers, he said. Police have deployed 14 teams to catch the other four. According to the police report, the victim and her husband were going from village Lalwadi to Taalvraksh on a bike at 3 pm on April 26, when, on the Thanagaji-Alwar bypass road, five youths, aged 20-25 years, stopped their bike. The youths forcibly took the couple to deserted sand dunes. The husband was assaulted and tied up, and then the five youths raped the woman. The youths threatened to make the video of the rape public, fearing which the couple did not report the matter to the police for six days. The youths demanded money from the couple, and they complied, but when the youths again demanded money later, they went to the police on May 2. The BJP has blamed the Congress for not acting sooner due to the polls. Mukesh Ranjan By Express News Service RANCHI: Steel City Jamshedpur, Indias first planned township, is witnessing a close contest between two old friends BJPs Viddhutvaran Mahto and Champai Soren of JMM. Both started their careers from Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM). Viddhutvaran, who was JMM MLA from Bahragora, joined BJP in 2014. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE The city, home to industrial giants like Tata Steel and Tata Motors, has witnessed hundreds of people being rendered unemployed in last few years after Tayo, a subsidiary of Tata Steel shut down, and Tata Hitachi was relocated to Kharagpur. Also, the anti-encroachment drive under a beautification drive has also created a group of unemployed, whose makeshift shops were removed, creating a sense of dissatisfaction among the locals. The larger grouse is connectivity. People in Jamshedpur have been waiting for the Ranchi-Jamshedpur NH-33 to get completed in the last 10 years. Despite the intervention of the Jharkhand High Court, it has not been completed so far, said a local resident Praveen Kumar. With hardly an administrative change to attract resource and the hyped up Momentum Jharkhand, the state has not seen job growth. The scenario works against the BJP-led NDA. Though Viddhutvaran is banking on Modi magic, JMM candidate Champai, who is backed by the Mahagathbandhan of JMM, RJD, Congress and JVM, is seeking votes on the issue of deteriorating law and order, unemployment and non-development. Putting some of the burning issues like health, education on the back burner, BJP is more concerned about keeping Modi in focus to attract votes while the JMM is trying to focus on promises of Modi in 2014, which are unfulfilled, said a local businessman Rupesh Kumar Jha. Harpreet Bajwa By Express News Service CHANDIGARH: In a peculiar twist, a split in a regional party in Haryana is directly benefitting two national parties in the Lok Sabha polls. The Jannayak Janata Party (JJP) was formed after it split from the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) thereby giving an advantage to BJP and Congress. Out of the 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the BJP and Congress are neck and neck on nine seats, except in Hisar. In 2014, there was a tie-up between the BJP and Kuldeep Bishnois Haryana Janhit Congress. This helped saffron party garner seven seats, INLD two seats and Congress could manage only one seat. But now the situation in HJC is merged with Congress. While the saffron party claims that it will win all 10 seats in the state, it clearly enjoys an advantage on two seats. On six other seats, they have a close fight with the Congress and the other two are in jeopardy over internal bickering. On the Gurugram seat Union Minister Rao Inderjit Singh is reportedly safe but the voters of Mewat in his constituency will play a crucial role. From Faridabad Union Minister Krishan Pal Gujjar is facing a tough fight from Avtar Singh Bhadana of Congress. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE In Bhiwani and Sonipat, the split in the INLD has given the saffron party an edge. The BJP is banking on the divide between Jat and non-Jat voters, the clean image of Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar and the Modi factor. However, farmers and commission agents are upset over the wheat procurement process. The Haryana CM is of the opinion that there are multiple contests in the state. There are multi-cornered contests in the state as there is INLD, JJP-AAP alliance, Congress, BSP and others. We are in a comfortable position, he says. Also this time the Congress has fielded strong candidates in almost all seats but the party is facing internal turmoil. However, the split in INLD will benefit it in Sirsa and Kurukshetra. Haryana Congress President Ashok Tanwar could have an advantage in Sirsa should the Dera Sacha Sauda support him. In this state, the urban and rural voters decide which party wins or loses. And the Jats that makeup 25% of the voter base has a direct influence on four seats. The Congress is trying to appease the Jats, while the BJP, considered a party of urban voters, is eyeing the rural belt. Battle for Sonipat Digvijay Chautala, younger brother of Dushyant Chautala, is the Jannayak Janta Party candidate from Sonipat. With his entry, both sons of Ajay Chautala the elder son of former CM OP Chautala who parted ways with Indian National Lok Dal and formed his own party JJP are contesting this election. On the other hand, Arjun Chautala, grandson of former CM OP Chautala and younger son of Abhay Chautala, are also contesting on party tickets By Online Desk Legend has it that everyone has six lookalikes. Though we can't prove it, it always amuses us when we hear from people that they bumped into our doppelganger. If our lookalike happens to be a celebrity, then the amusement is even greater. But for this 30-year-old in PM Narendra Modi's stronghold of Surat in Gujarat, it soon turned into a nightmare. It all started during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections when Prashant Sethi became the centre of attraction as people who visited his chicken legs eatery near Kapadiya Club started to talk about his unbelievable resemblance to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. Despite being a BJP supporter, Sethi was initially gratified by the compliments from friends, acquaintances and even strangers. But, he is no longer happy about it. In a desperate attempt to change his resemblance to the young scion, Sethi not only changed his hairstyle but also has put on nearly 20 kg. Speaking to TOI, Sethi said, I dont wish to be known as a lookalike of Rahul Gandhi. Of course, he is a national leader and I respect him, but I am a BJP supporter and I favour Narendra Modi. I turned down a Bollywood movie too for the same reason." FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Sethi claimed that he refused to play the role of Rahul Gandhi in the upcoming Narendra Modi biopic as he is against the political ideology of the Congress and its president. "Rahul has no major achievements to talk about, As a citizen, I had high hopes from him," he added. Sethi's wife Gunjan, on the other hand, thinks that he looks like Neil Nitin Mukesh. "It is better to be the lookalike of a Bollywood celebrity instead of an Indian politician," she said. Sethi also outright rejected his father's proposal to join the Youth Congress and contest the intra-party election. The ongoing Lok Sabha elections will conclude on May 19 and the results will be declared on May 23. He told the guest that Vietnam always remembers Swedens valuable and effective support for its causes of socio-economic development and poverty reduction, thus helping it fulfil many Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) set by the United Nations ahead of schedule. He said he was delighted on hearing that two-way trade surpassed USD1.5 billion last year and Swedish investors are currently running 67 projects totalling USD370 million in Vietnam. Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) welcomes Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree (Source: VNA) However, the figures are still quite modest and yet to match the full bilateral potential, he stressed. PM Phuc conveyed his hope that the Swedish enterprises accompanying the Crown Princess on her trip will find opportunities to connect with suitable Vietnamese partners in order to help boost economic cooperation. The Vietnamese Government is working to complete institutions and create the most possible favourable conditions for foreign investors, including those from Sweden, he added. He also expressed his hope that the Swedish Royal Family and government will help to speed up the early signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) before late June 2019 to create a breakthrough for bilateral trade and economic ties. Crown Princess Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree said that the Swedish enterprises accompanying her want to foster stronger collaborations with Vietnamese partners. Swedish Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde stated that Sweden considers issues related to free trade agreements as highly significant. Therefore, the country will work to boost the early signing and ratification of the EVFTA, she noted./. Kumar Vikram By Express News Service ALLAHABAD: Allahabad Lok Sabha seat has a unique characteristic of having the same old faces in the Lok Sabha ring but with new identities. BJP has fielded Rita Bahuguna Joshi this time, while the Congress has put its trust in Yogesh Shukla. Joshi had in the past tried her luck as a Congress candidate, while Shukla had contested as a BJP candidate in 2009. FOLLOW OUR FULL ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Allahabad has been identified with names of veterans such as Lal Bahadur Shastri, VP Singh, Murli Manohar Joshi, Janeshwar Mishra, Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna and Amitabh Bachchan. The general talk these days, however, veers off to the Kumbh Mela and not the polls, with people recalling how it was efficiently managed by the current BJP government in UP. We have seen many Kumbhs. This time it was a different experience. SP and BSP leaders should learn from Yogi Adityanath. It will always be remembered as the most successful world festival and a big achievement, said Ramanand Rai, a teacher at a private school. Rai is not the only one impressed with the BJP governments performance at the Centre and the state. Vishesh Thakur could not stop himself from joining in the conversation. He stopped dealing with customers at his shop and said, You can feel the difference in the city. Be it roads or electricity everything has improved, he added. The area has the maximum population of Brahmin voters, followed by Patel (Kurmi), Yadavs, Thakurs and others, with a sprinkling of Muslims. Strategically, BJP has chosen an old and trusted Brahmin face in Rita Bahuguna Joshi, while sidelining the sitting MP Shyam Charan Shukla. Joshi, daughter of Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna, carried forward the legacy of her father and first contested from the seat in 1999. However, she failed to garner enough votes to make it to the Parliament. Given the situation on the ground, it is more likely that Joshi will be able to get the support of voters in the area. Joshi has also been associated with Allahabad University and has been the mayor of the city. On the other side, Yogesh Shukla, also a Brahmin, is trying his luck as a Congressman. He had earlier contested as a BJP candidate in 1999 but failed to carry forward the legacy of Murli Manohar Joshi. Rewati Raman Singh of the Samajwadi party had won the seat in 1999. People in Allahabad claimed Yogesh Shukla was eyeing a BJP ticket this time. However, the party saw a winning chance in Joshi, forcing Shukla to switch to Congress. However, the battle for Allahabad is set to be a tough fight for Shukla as the Congress had last won the seat in 1984 when it had fielded superstar Amitabh Bachchan. On the other side, SP has fielded Kurmi candidate Rajendra Patel, making the fight triangular. The Kurmis make up a significant part of the constituency, particularly in the rural areas. It is believed that Allahabad seat will present a tough fight for Joshi. Brahmins voters might be in large numbers but they do not vote enthusiastically. You cannot underestimate the SP-BSP alliance, summed up Ramakant Shastri, a government employee. By IANS NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to extend the deadline for the finalisation of National Register for Citizens (NRC) in Assam. The court declared that the process must be completed on or before July 31. It said that the process could not be delayed even by a day. ALSO READ | Citizens group urges SC to reaffirm Indias obligations on immigrants The apex court allowed the coordinator to proceed as per law if objectors do not appear. ALSO READ | Hindu refugees in Bengal will not face any problem due to NRC: Amit Shah Earlier, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had criticised the Centre and the Ministry of Home Affairs' plea requesting a suspension of the NRC work during the general elections. Bala Chauhan By Express News Service BENGALURU: Just days after Sri Lankas army chief Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake made a startling revelation that some of the suicide bombers involved in the Easter terror attack had travelled to Kashmir, Kerala and Bengaluru for some sort of training, Indian investigating agencies have confirmed that two of them did, in fact, visit India in 2012 on business visas. But they have refuted that the duo had received any kind of training. Lieutenant General Senanayake had even made a reference to the civil war in his country with the banned Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam saying there had been too much peace in the last 10 years. The investigations into the Easter terror attack now seems to have become a sticking point in the bilateral relations. Two of the Sri Lankan suicide bombers, Ilham Ahmed Mohammad Ebrahim and his older brother Inshaf Ahmed, who had led the fidayeen attacks in Shangri-La and Cinnamon Grand Hotel which claimed 253 lives and injured more than 500 people, had travelled to Bengaluru, Kochi, Chennai, Mumbai and Delhi with valid passports on business. ALSO READ | Lashkar-e-Taiba's grand terror plot in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Maldives Their father Mohammed Ibrahim, who was subsequently arrested, is a spice tycoon and his company Ishana Exports Pvt Ltd, based in Colombo, is listed in Trade Indias list of verified exporters offering quality spices and copper tubes, top sources in central intelligence agencies said. Ishana has business interests in various cities from Kerala to Delhi. Seven years ago, Inshaf and Ilham had come on a business trip. They neither visited Kashmir nor did they participate in any training camp in India as has been alleged by the Sri Lankan army chief, the source said. Highly placed sources have also told TNIE that Sri Lanka has not yet shared any leads or information that link that attackers to India or their travel. However, they did not deny that investigation agencies have asked for those inputs. In fact, Indian agencies have sought information from their counterparts in the island nation on the timeline and travel details of the terrorists to India along with their photographs. Since the army chief has made a specific statement on the travel of some of the suicide bombers to India, they should be in possession of the information, which is critical for the security of the region. Sri Lanka has so far not provided any details. Hence, it (Senanayekes statement) remains in a realm of speculation, said a highly placed source. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka extends deadline by 48 hours for public to hand over swords, sharp weapons India had in early April cautioned Sri Lanka about terror attacks on churches and its high commission in Colombo and had shared the travel itinerary of Hashim Zahran, the head of the suicide squad of the now banned National Thowheeth Jamaath (NTJ), to Pakistan in 2018. Hashim had gone to Pakistan to meet an agent to help him find a foothold in Kashmir to spread the ISIS ideology. But he had not travelled to Kashmir, the officer added. The ethnic, historical and diplomatic relationship between Sri Lanka and India continues to be fragile with deepening interests of China and Pakistan in Colombo and New Delhis own interest in South Asia. The blame game between the two continues and memories of an earlier attempt to broker peace between the Sri Lankan government and the LTTE, which ended in disaster with the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi by the Tigers in 1991, remain raw, said the officer. The National Investigation Agency (NIA), which is investigating ISIS-related cases in India, has made 14 arrests so far from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. ISIS has links with the NTJ. The module in South India has largely been radicalised by Hashim Zahran. The NTJ may have some fringe sympathisers in India, who are under watch, said the officer. By IANS NEW DELHI: Even as India and its security apparatus grapple with the imponderables that emerge constantly with Pakistan's proxy war in Kashmir Valley, the death by a thousand cuts asymmetrical warfare takes its toll on our forces continuously. The rapid use of the dark web and the onion router (TOR which provides anonymity) to subliminally indoctrinate the youth in the Valley with a bent towards Wahhabi Salafism is not lost on our sleuths. However, that does not for a moment mean that our deep state can take its eyes off the ball in the rest of the country. India's vast swathe of counter-terrorism grid which combines the skills of hardcore investigation, dogged information reporting and ground level intel gathering on knowing who your adversary picks up every nano or sliver or nugget of information and processes it. Following the 3D approach to detect, deter and destroy, in the wake of 26/11, it is a much more robust network. While RAW provides the external inputs, IB domestic, NTRO algos pick up the chatter, it is the state police and its CIDs and Q Branch, say, in Tamil Nadu or Special Branch in other states who collate, disseminate and act on the information packs. In states like Maharashtra and southern states, these investigators are reportedly top of the line and have achieved many kills and successes. There are designated counter-terrorism groups within RAW and IB and of course, there is now a full-fledged NIA which is part of a seamless information sharing and acting mainframe. Ministry of Home Affairs now has a counter-terrorism and counter-radicalisation division. ALSO READ: Islamic State ideology has no place in Islam How and why did India manage to provide solid information leads to Sri Lanka is based on this grid and its strategic imperatives. Right from the beginning, Jamaat Inayat Ansural Momin has for long been active in Kerala and on the radar of India's deep state, it follows pure Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) ideology. The progenitor of the LeT grand plan to use the fertile breeding grounds of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Maldives for fresh recruits to wreak havoc on India - Muzzamil Bhat - wanted at first to use JIAM to come to Lanka and train there and return as suicide bombers to India. In 2009, in a celebrated case, a Malayalee Muslim was found wandering around suspiciously in Kashmir till he was arrested by the security forces. Kerala has a history of communal violence, none more famous than the Marad massacre which saw the killing of eight Hindus by a Muslim mob on May 2, 2003 at the Marad beach of the Kozikhode district. In the early evening, eight Hindus were hacked to death by a Muslim mob on the beach after reeling in their catch for the day. The killers then escaped into the local Juma Masjid, the Marad enquiry commission's (Justice Thomas P Joseph) report notes the submission of then Kozhikode Police Commissioner T.K. Vinod Kumar that hundreds of local Muslim women converged on the mosque to prevent the police from entering it to catch the attackers. Police commissioner, T.K. Vinod Kumar stated: "It was an operation carried out by a well-knit organization. It was a quick and sudden attack which was over in 10 minutes. The attack came from a particular community. "One of the attackers, Mohammed Ashker, was also killed during the incident. The police recovered explosives and arms from the local Juma Masjid two days after the killings, as well as special investigation team of the Kerala Crime Branch, filed charge sheets against 147 people accused of involvement or complicity in the crime. Some suspected a JIAM hand in this. ALSO READ: Expats who backed Islamic State under NIA scanner Terror central, many reckon, was always in north India, but actually it has existed in Maharashtra and southern states for many years. Its genealogy can be traced to JIAM. Middle-eastern terror networks have been known to flirt with JIAM and that is how the Bhatkals in Karnataka emerged as a follow up to the Shahid Bilal network and dreaded Amjad LeT promoted terror cell in Hyderabad busted with his arrest in 2010. An existential crisis gripped Bhatkal in Karnataka with the rise of Mohammed Ahmed Zarar Siddibapa who became a poster boy of indigenous terror as the dangerous and deadly Indian Mujahideen terrorist Yasin Bhatkal. What did not help the town in coastal Uttara Kannada district was that other IM top guns, brothers Riyaz and Iqbal Shabantri, also became branded as Riyaz and Iqbal Bhatkal. The town was subsumed by their identity. Its genesis can be traced to a clash in 1991 during the Lok Sabha polls followed by communal clashes which erupted in 1993. A police officer who did not want to be named said, "The town remained tense for nearly six months, during which 17 people were killed, three were reported missing and property worth Rs 12 crore was destroyed." Tension rose alarmingly in April 1996 after the then local MLA Dr U Chittaranjan was murdered, leading to a police crackdown. Investigators now claim that birthed seven years later was Yasin Bhatkal along with six other young men who sat together in the town and decided to form the Indian Mujahideen. Muslims in Bhatkal are primarily known to be either Nawayaths or Dahknis. The Nawayaths trace their origins to Arab countries and believe their ancestors came to the seashore town in the 8th century. ALSO READ: Islamic State module members stayed in Kochi as perfume vendors The Dakhnis are referred to as original inhabitants. IM became a terror powerhouse -- in signature moves, it planted bombs all over the country leaving behind a trail of blood. It was only the combined operation of RAW under Alok Joshi and IB under Syed Asif Ibrahim that Yasin Bhatkal was captured after a stakeout in Nepal in August 2013 since when he remains incarcerated. This is one of the biggest wins of Indian intelligence which helped dismantle the IM network which killed hundreds in different locations in India. In early 2010, captured Lashkar-e-Tayiba operative T Naseer reportedly told his Kerala police interrogators that Hyderabad was Pakistani-based LeT's Indian headquarters and the epicentre of all anti-national activities. Information provided by security agencies revealed that Hyderabad had the most number of alleged terror operatives who had gone missing or are currently believed to be residents in Pakistan. Mohammed Shahid Bilal, the alleged mastermind in the August 2007 twin blasts in the city and the Mecca Masjid blasts in May that year, who is said to have been killed in an encounter in Pakistan, continues to remain a hero in the area where he lived. A youth from his area, who preferred not to be identified for this report, says, "Saab jab tak Bilal tha, paani or current ka problem nahin tha (when Bilal was alive, we did not have water or power problems)." In 2002 the Lashkar decided to get aggressive. In October 2002, 14 men were sent to Pakistan for training. Various reasons like the liberation of Hyderabad and the demolition of the Babri Masjid were given to brainwash these men. In 2007, when the Lashkar gave a call for jihad, the likes of Bilal and Rehman Khan became full-fledged terror operatives. They were among the 14 men who had been sent to Pakistan and told to set up Lashkar networks in the city. ALSO READ: Islamic State men from abroad kept readying Riyas for suicide attack in Kerala At the time, during a meeting of FBI agents and Indian security officials, it emerged that 21 terrorists operating in Pakistan, including Abu Jundal, had Hyderabad origins. Hyderabad, the IB sources say, has surpassed Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh and Kerala as a breeding ground for Indian terrorists. Intelligence Bureau sources say Bilal was gunned down in Karachi, Pakistan, on August 30, 2007, along with his brother Samad. But the story of south India as epicentre - terror remains incomplete without mention of Mohd. Amjad, the HuJI boss who completed the triad along with Yasin Bhatkal and Shahid Bilal. Arguably one of the most dangerous, in January 2010, days ahead of Republic Day, Mohammed Amjad alias Khaja, the south India chief of terror outfit HuJI who was tasked by ISI to carry out some attacks was arrested by Hyderabad police. Twentyseven-year-old Khaja, a native of Malakpet, had close links with Jaish and Lashkar. Jamestown Foundation (a Washington-based institute which educates policymakers about events and trends, which it regards as being of current strategic importance to the United States) writes that IB officials achieved a breakthrough on January 17 when they arrested a self-styled HuJI commander identified as Mohammad Abdul Khwaja (a.k.a. Amjad) from Chennai. The 27-year-old native of Andhra Pradesh had intended to strike major installations in South India during the forthcoming Republic Day (January 26) celebrations. According to his confessional statements, he planned to target the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) depot on the outskirts of Hyderabad city as well as refineries in Visakhapatnam and Chennai. Besides these installations, he also plotted to carry out assassinations in Hyderabad, mostly targeting police officers involved in terror investigations. For these activities, Khwaja scouted at least 25 other Muslim youths from south India and reportedly sent them for terror training in Pakistan. The most disturbing aspect of Khwaja's activities was the transnational linkages he had established over the years. Khwaja was found to be operating in and out of India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in the past few years, coordinating with the LeT, Jaish-e Muhammed (JeM) and IM leadership and establishing close ties with IM's elusive mastermind, Riaz Bhatkal (a.k.a. Ismail Shahbandri). Khwaja, who had worked closely with HuJi's slain operative Shahid Bilal and underwent terrorist training in Pakistan, was found to be using three passports - Indian, Bangladeshi and Pakistani - in three different names. Neutralising this trinity meant that the terror network in south India was well on its way to walking the road to perdition. By IANS NEW DELHI: Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu will deliver the keynote address at Vietnam's Tam Chuc Pagoda during his four-day visit to the country, an official statement said on Wednesday. During his visit starting Thursday, Naidu will have meetings with Vietnam's Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and National Assembly Chairperson Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan. He will also meet the Indian community and Vietnamese beneficiaries of the Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp organized in Vietnam under the 'India for Humanity' initiative launched to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. "India-Vietnam relations have been built on a firm foundation of close cultural, historical and civilisational links and are marked by mutual trust and understanding as well as strong cooperation in regional and international fora," the statement said. "During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Vietnam in September 2016, the relationship between the two countries was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership." Naidu's visit to Vietnam follows a series of high-level exchanges that have taken place in 2018, including visits by Vietnam's Prime Minister and President in January and March 2018, respectively and the state visit of President Ram Nath Kovind in November 2018. "These exchanges have resulted in robust cooperation in several areas, have expanded defence and security ties, forged new economic and commercial linkages and deepened people-to-people engagement. The two sides share a common desire to promote peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region," the statement said. Prabhu Chawla By Power is the ultimate karma of politics. The fantasy of every leader with national ambitionsboth pygmies and giantsis to grab the glittering throne of Indraprastha. With just two weeks left for the election results, numerous leaders have positioned themselves as kingmakers. E-2019 is not a joust between ideas and ideologies. The choice for voters in all the 542 constituencies is bizarrely binaryit is either Prime Minister Modi or a provincial paladin. For example, the PM and his party leaders repeatedly remind citizens that by pressing the lotus button, their votes would go straight into Modis account. The Oppositions mandate mavens are Mamata, Akhilesh Yadav, Chandrababu Naidu, Mayawati et al. Though none of them has initiated deal-making moves, their names are being floated as future residents of 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. Polling in 435 seats is over. Experienced political forecasters are studying their windsocks. Going by the body language and mood of workers, India may get a hung mandate. A last-minute Modi campaign tsunami in the remaining 107 seats could change the final outcome, but marginally. Barring hardcore exceptions, the tone and tenor of the Indian media including TV channels have acquired surprising sobriety and even a semblance of neutrality. Are the exit polls in the conclude d five phases responsible? However, random regionalists are daydreaming about donning the royal robes in May. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE A quaint example is Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, the self-appointed architect of a non-Congress and non-BJP alliance. His state has only 17 Lok Sabha MPs. But he believes his spectacular triumph in the December 2018 Assembly elections has raised his stature at par with other regional Rasputins and Opposition leaders. His preelection Gathbandhan Yatra has begun. His choice of launch engine is Keralas Marxist Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Irony just diedKCR, with a perceived pro-BJP image, confabulating with sworn enemies of the Prime Minister and the BJP. After corralling Vijayan, his next target is DMK President M K Stalin whose election partner is the Congress. No doubt, he is an undisputed leader of his own state. So far, KCR has kept his cards close to his chest. But political pundits are convinced that he would back the BJP if it falls short of a majority, raising a plethora of possibilities. KCRs effectiveness as a power broker would depend on the number of LS seats he wins in his own state in spite of the courteous welcome he receives from his counterparts and Opposition parties. Alliance building has never been his forte, being a loner with a penchant for moving in and out of Central governments. His credibility is suspect because his was the only Southern party, which escaped excessive coercive pressures from agencies like Income Tax, Enforcement Directorate and CBI. His excessive enthusiasm in exploring the formation of the next Union government also raises political questions. His well-known antipathy towards the Congress will lead him to exclude it from any future Opposition alliance. Since he is talking to anti-BJP parties, perhaps he has concluded that saffron would not be the next colour of South Block. Since the BJP is unlikely to win more than 20 seats out 131 in the five Southern states, a collective 110 MP power bloc comprising the DMK, TDP, Left, JD(S), TRS, YSRC and the Congress would play a decisive role in a Trishanku Parliament. The Congress believes it may garner more seats than the BJP in four of the five Southern states, barring Karnataka where Modi power has some traction. Hence KCR has frenetically take to his political pocket calculator. According to TRS insiders, his number crunching doesnt give the BJP and its allies an absolute majority. His informed guess is that a vaguely defined Third Front would get more seats than non-BJP and non-Congress parties on their own. This calculation is based on the science of probability. In 2014, the BJP rode a massive anti-UPA wave and Modi Mania to storm 282 of the 400-odd Lok Sabha constituencies it contested, grabbing 225 from 11 states alone. Over half of these were snatched from the Congress. The BJPs strike rate was almost 100 per cent in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, HP and Gujarat. It grabbed a record 71 seats out of 80 in Uttar Pradesh. Since then it has conquered two-thirds of the states with its allies. The BJPs detractors claim that the party cannot repeat its run rate because of anti-incumbency in saffron states and against the Centre. Empirically, voters deny over 60 per cent of sitting lawmakers a second term return ticket to Delhi. The BJPs 300-seat projection could be hype, and not validated by psephology or history since it would have to not only retain its existing numbers, but will have to exceed its decimal count in West Bengal, Odisha and South Indiaa tall order. The law of probability seems to favour Congress. All its 44 seats came from just 14 states. It didnt get a double-digit score in any of them. This integer can only go vertical. Its main opponent is the Lotus in all the states. And the BJPs loss is Congresss gain. Yet, barring the faces, the economic and sociological profile of both parties are mirror images of one another. However, Rahul Gandhi is not Sonia Gandhi. While his communication skills may have vastly improved, he is yet to emerge as a leviathan with the acceptability and credibility to forge alliances with leaders from entirely different social, economic and educational backgrounds. He hardly attends meetings of Opposition leaders. Regional nabobs like KCR are taking advantage of his political infirmities. Other territorial titans such as Sharad Pawar and Chandrababu Naidu are also working together to prevent a Modi comeback. Modis success depends on his charisma to cast a spell on voters to forget the BJP and remember only him and his deeds while casting their vote. Anusha Ravi By Express News Service BENGALURU: With the results of the Lok Sabha elections set to be announced in less than three weeks, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, who has been in the forefront of stitching up a non-BJP, non-Congress front, is making all-out efforts to meet leaders of such political parties, especially in the southern states. He has already met his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan and unsuccessfully attempted to meet Congress alliance partner in Tamil Nadu, DMKs chief M K Stalin. The most interesting of all his outreach efforts, however, has been in Karnataka to Congress coalition partner JDS. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamys telephonic conversation with K Chandrashekhar Rao on Sunday over the issue of releasing water from Almatti dam to the parched districts of Telangana made headlines. However, another hush-hush phone conversation between the two chief ministers on Monday centred around the possible outcome of the May 23 results.But contrary to the belief that Rao is attempting to unite regional party leaders to form a formidable non-Congress and non-BJP combine, sources close to Kumaraswamy suggest that Rao is looking to be an ally of the Congress and has sought JDS help to ease the transition. FOLLOW OUR ELECTION COVERAGE HERE Given his strained relations with Congress, Rao is unable to approach the party directly. Moreover, the anti-Congress position he has assumed in Telangana doesnt allow him to be seen as extending an olive branch to the party. He hopes that the JDS, given its working relation with the Congress in Karnataka, will be able to forge an alliance, said a source privy to the conversation between the two CMs. Since the JDS is already in a coalition government with Congress, Rao, it is said, understands that attempts to lure the party away from Congress could be futile. Rao hopes to convince Kumaraswamy to take up his cause with Congress for a quid pro quo. Ensuring the stability of JDS-Congress coalition government with Kumaraswamy as Chief Minister will be his bargaining chip for extending support to the Congress in Lok Sabha, Rao is said to have conveyed. Given the rumblings in the coalition threatening the stability of the coalition government, Kumaraswamy is said to have shown interest in Raos proposal. ALSO READ | Amidst third front hopes, KCR holds talks with Pinarayi Vijayan Chandrashekar Rao comes with the offer of not just seats won by the TRS in Telangana but also Jagan Mohan Reddys seats in Andhra Pradesh. They seem to have arrived at an understanding that they will work together, said a source. JDS insiders who are in the know of Raos proposal also insist that he would prefer to ally with Congress, which may have lesser number of seats, than tie up with BJP. Having considerable sway over the larger alliance partner even in terms of numbers seems to be the idea. Congress in Karnataka is least rattled by the talks between Kumaraswamy and Rao. The BJP, which is sure it wont have enough numbers post results, is propping up leaders like Rao to create a perception of threat. We have no reason to fret since the JDS, as well as its chief H D Deve Gowda, have categorically stated that they will support Rahul Gandhis candidature for Prime Minister, said Rizwan Arshad, MLC and MP candidate from Bangalore Central for the Congress. Toby Antony By Express News Service KOCHI: The members of the Islamic State (IS) module busted by the NIA were active in Kochi in the guise of attar (perfume) vendors. Three of the four-member module were attar traders at Marine Drive and Fort Kochi for the past several months. The members of the module conducted a meeting at a busy place in Kochi. They met in the guise of a meeting of attar traders. Whether they carried out a recce of any places has to be confirmed in further investigation, an intelligence officer said. According to sources, Riyas Aboobacker of Palakkad was motivated to target religious places and tourist destinations in Central Kerala. Riyas was under the radar of the police, intelligence agencies and the NIA following his social media activities supporting jihad in the recent year. He quit his job after the company where he worked did not permit him to grow a long beard. He studied BA and worked in some of the private companies. Later, he started selling attar believing it is a noble work as per Islam, said an officer. Even though the module members wanted to join the IS in Afghanistan and Syria, they were directed by the IS operatives abroad to stay in the state and conduct clandestine operations for the group. Riyas was highly motivated by IS propaganda videos and literature. He was in constant touch with Rashid Abdullah of Kasargod who left for Afghanistan. Rashid directed him to stay in Kerala and carry out local operations, including recruitment, an officer said. By Express News Service BHUBANESWAR: With millions of trees in the State Capital either uprooted or damaged under the impact of cyclone Fani, the Government is facing a daunting task to clear the roads in the City.National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 420 personnel to expedite clearing of roads. As many as 13 teams comprising 30 personnel each have been pressed into service with one team reserved for emergency. Similarly, Works department has formed 29 teams to clear major roads under the jurisdiction of Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC). Odisha Fire Service has engaged seven teams consisting of more than 150 personnel to clear uprooted trees in the Capital. Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) personnel are also assisting in work. Three teams of power utility CESU have also been deployed to restore electricity in areas under its three divisions. On Monday, several residents of Acharya Vihar, including senior citizens, had approached Saheed Nagar police seeking their help in removing the uprooted trees. A police official said fire personnel were sent to Acharya Vihar area and the trees were cleared.BMC officials said the multi-agency control room has received over 770 complaints till Tuesday evening. On Monday, the authorities received 400 complaints about uprooted trees, 250 were related to supply of water tankers and repair of damaged electricity poles and 10 were to lift carcasses of animals killed in the cyclone. Meanwhile, Fire personnel supplied water in Bhubaneswar and Puri on Tuesday. Water was provided to the affected people in Mahisakhala, Unit-I slum, Buddheswari Colony, Mali Sahi and near Sishu Bhawan. Water was supplied by six tenders. Fire personnel also supplied water at three locations in Puri, said Fire Service DG BK Sharma.Indian Navy also distributed 5,000 litre of drinking water and 1, 200 biscuit packets at Rental Colony High School and slum on the day. Chairman of the Hanoi Peoples Committee Nguyen Duc Chung (L) shakes hands with Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree (Photo: VNA) The municipal official made the remark in Hanoi on May 7th while receiving Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree, who is paying an official visit to Vietnam on the occasion of the 50th founding anniversary of Vietnam-Sweden diplomatic ties. He informed his guest that following the visit of a delegation of 18 leading businesses of Sweden led by Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde in 2016, many Swedish firms have come to the capital city to explore cooperation and investment chances during the next two years. At present, investment projects of Sweden have played an important role to Hanois economy, he noted. Chung said that Hanoi is prioritising investment in waste treatment, advanced energy generation technologies, environmental technology, health, education, infrastructure, and especially smart city construction. He voiced his hope that the Crown Princess visit will open up new opportunities for cooperation, stressing that authorities and people of Hanoi always regard Sweden as a close partner and friend. For her part, Crown Princess Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree expressed her delight in the thriving bilateral cooperation and Vietnams socio-economic development. She added that by bolstering business cooperation and exchanges, the two sides have worked to strengthen the bilateral friendship for future generations./. By Express News Service BHUBANESWAR: Fani has virtually ripped off the precious green cover over the temple city and its biggest victim is the Bodhi tree on the Mahabodhi Society premises.The 62-year-old tree was not only a direct descendant of the original Bodhi tree at Gaya, under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment, it was the symbol of the glorious Buddhist heritage and culture of Odisha. The tree could not withstand the brute force of Fani and lays uprooted today. The tree was at the centre of all rituals of Buddhism practice in the Capital City. Previously, the air around it was saturated with the scent of incense sticks and chants by monks in variable tempos. Today, everything is destroyed leaving two monks, living on the premises, worried about restoration of the site. Around 28 precious stone statues of Buddha, which adorned the trees base, were also damaged. Strong winds uprooted the tree as if it was feather-weight. It used to shade the mediation of tourists and practitioners of Buddhism, said 19-year-old monk from Uttar Pradesh Bhante Dhammalok, who lives on the premises with a Sri Lankan monk, P Assaji Thero.The original Bodhi tree was planted in 288 BCE at Bodh Gaya. After Buddhas enlightenment, the trees seedling was taken to Sri Lanka by Emperor Ashokas daughter princess Sanghamitra in the third century BC. Another seedling from the tree in Sri Lankas Anuradhapura was brought to Bhubaneswar. On May 13, 1957, the seedling was planted in the City by the then Prime Minister of Myanmar U Nu. A small temple was built near the tree for worshipping Lord Buddha. About 25 years back, the temple got a bigger shape at a spot, few yards from the IDCO Exihibition Ground. The temple and the area surrounding the tree were decked up with a pedestal constructed there four years ago. By Express News Service TIRUVARUR: Two caste Hindus have been arrested following a complaint by a Dalit farmer that the duo assaulted him and forced human excreta into his mouth. Police, however, said no proof was available to support the farmers claim. In his complaint to Kottur police, P Kollimalai (43), a Dalit farmer from Tiruvanduthurai, alleged that on April 28 when he was on his way to his field in Mandapathadi, Sakthivel and his relatives Rajesh and Rajkumar waylaid him and attacked him. Also, he stated that the trio abused him using his caste name and forced excreta into his mouth and urinated on him. Based on the complaint, police registered a case under various sections of the IPC and the SC-ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and arrested Sakthivel. On the same day, Kollimalais relatives staged a road blockade demanding the arrest of Rajesh and Rajkumar as well, and Rajesh was arrested. Police, however, said Kollimalai was assaulted by Sakthivel over a feud during temple a festival held four years ago. A Durai, Superintendent of Police, on Tuesday issued a statement to media in which he said Kollimalai was attacked by S Sakthivel, V Rajesh and S Rajkumar over the four-year-old enmity and there had been a feud between two communities since then. Based on Kollimalais complaint, Sakthivel and Rajesh were arrested and remanded in custody. During the preliminary inquiry, it came to notice the attack was over taking soil for brick kilns. The DSP of Tiruthuraipoondi, investigating officer in the case, has been instructed to expedite probe, Durai added. Attack over taking soil for kilns Based on Kollimalais complaint, Sakthivel and Rajesh were arrested and remanded in custody. During inquiry, it came to notice the attack was over taking soil for brick kilns. The DSP of Tiruthuraipoondi, investigating officer in the case, has been instructed to expedite probe, the SP said By Express News Service HYDERABAD: Taking a strong exception to issue of notification for by-election to the three MLCs from Local Authorities Constituency, even as the elections for MPTCs and ZPTC are on, the Congress accused the ruling TRS that it is hand in glove with the ECI. TPCC president N Uttam Kumar Reddy held that the notification stands illegal and that they should be postponed by two weeks or his party would be forced to fight a legal battle. We will take the issue to the doors of the court, he said. At a time when elections to local bodies are in full swing, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has notified for the election which means that the newly-elected MPTCs and ZPTCs would not be able to vote. The MPTC and ZPTC who previously held positions are set to vote now. This irked the ruling Congress that has placed itself on the offensive ever since its MLAs expressed willingness to join the TRS. The notification is given by the ECI for MLC elections and within ten minutes the TRS announces its candidates. This is nothing but an illegal act, Uttam Kumar Reddy remarked after meeting Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Rajat Kumar. What the Congress claims is that the electoral list was not declared before announcing the schedule for MLC elections which amounts to an unfair practice. The CEO claims that he does not know anything. I do not understand the relation that TRS has with ECI. He says elections should be held in December first week, and it happens.... this is illegal, he rued. MCC in force The Congress, TDP, TJS and CPI demanded that the newly-elected MPTCs and ZPTCs should be the ones to elect the MLCs and the elections should be postponed by two more weeks. CEO Rajat Kumar on Tuesday issued a notification to conduct by-polls. The Model Code of Conduct (MCC) came into force on Tuesday. The elections will be held on May 31 from 8 am to 4 pm and the counting of votes will take place on June 3, said CEO Rajat Kumar. The last date for filing of nominations is May 14, scrutiny of nominations will take place on May 15, the last date for withdrawal is May 17. No bar on persons with pending court cases CEO Rajat Kumar clarified that there is no bar on persons against whom court cases are pending to contest the polls or exercising their franchise. He also said that if any seat that falls vacant after the resignation or death of a sitting member, elections need to be conducted within six months. There are a few more vacant seats for which elections will be conducted within the six-month time limit, he said. By Express News Service HYDERABAD: All the seed packets in the state will be available with quick response (QR) code from July 1 in the state. With the implementation of QR code, the seed packets will have information like the producer of the seed, seeding testing facility and others. This will help to contain the sale of spurious seeds. The Ministry of Agriculture (seed wing) assistant commissioner DK Srivastava interacted with principal secretary Agriculture C Partha Sarathi on Tuesday over the implementation of QR code on seed packets in Telangana. Srivastava said that though the Central government sanctioned funds to all the states for the implementation of online seed testing and certification programme, no state started the process, except Telangana. The Telangana implemented the online seed testing and certification completely. It is a welcome gesture, Srivastava said. Partha Sarathi said that they would implement the QR coding system from July. The QR code will become handy for the traceability of seed packet lots, he said. Meanwhile, Partha Sarathi held a meeting with Agriculture Commissioner Rahul Bojja and others on conducting surprise raids on spurious seed sellers. They trained the members of the Task Force on how to identify the fake seeds. The Task Force teams, formed with officers from police, agriculture and allied departments, would tour across the state to identify the spurious and inferior quality seeds. We will take stern action against the spurious and unlicensed seed sellers, he said. P Krishna By Express News Service SIDDIPET: There is a popular saying among the Havasupai Apache Indians in the United States, a people displaced repeatedly by various development projects: Land is like diamonds but money is like ice. Back home in Telangana, the saying could help explain why despite receiving compensations worth more than Rs 1 crore, oustees continue to demand land in exchange for land, instead of the compensation. Under the recently expedited distributions of Rehabilitation and Resettlement packages to oustees of the Mallanna Sagar project, many interesting incidents have come up. It seems that families with children above 18 years of age, at the time of receiving the compensation, are benefiting more than others. And yet, the beneficiaries remain dissatisfied and hope for an agricultural land instead of housing plots or 2 BHK residences. For instance, Teegulla Sattaiah, a resident of Laxmapur village in Siddipets Thoguta mandal, has three grown-up sons. As part of the compensation for Sattaiahs one-acre plot, he was given Rs 7.5 lakh in compensation, along with a 250-sq yard plot, with an estimated land value of Rs 30 lakh. His three sons will also receive Rs 5 lakh compensation and 250-sq yard plots, each. The total compensation received by the family then becomes nearly Rs 1.12 crore. While the number may sound phenomenal, the reality is a little more complex. Firstly, Sattaiah says the land parcels being handed out are located close to Gajwels education hub and there is time before the plot reaches the said value. Further, as an agricultural background, Sattaiah and his family are not as adept at managing neither cash nor real estate. It is still painful that we will no longer have land for agriculture, he told Express. Studies carried out at the Srisailam and Lower Manair dam projects in the united Andhra Pradesh area, have also confirmed that in the long run, a land-based resettlement meaning a land-for-land approach may be more beneficial since land is the key to reestablishment and contributes to cultural security. In this case, the land provided by the government is residential and different from the agricultural land taken away from the oustees. Besides, a sudden influx of cash among traditional communities is known to have severe side effects on the lifestyle of a population, giving them a false impression of wealthiness. As a result, gambling and drinking can increase to unprecedented levels, as it did in case of the Tamang community of Markhu, Nepal. A displaced person may find it difficult to acquire comparable land with the compensation money because of limited land market or higher value of land in the relocated area, where prices can double or even triple almost overnight. And the costs for relocating, transporting, salvaging building materials, and so on also add to the financial strain on the resettlers. A resident of Thogutas Banjarually village, Alwala Mallaiah also has three sons, with a total compensation of nearly Rs 1 crore, told Express, It would still have been better if the government had purchased one acre of agricultural land in the neighbouring village. Meanwhile, the other oustees nodded in agreement. Oustees felicitate officials with shawls Mallanna Sagar oustees on Tuesday felicitated with garlands and shawls, the officials who came to distribute compensation cheques in Pallepahad village. Collectors D Krishna Bhasker and P Venkatram Reddy of Siddipet and Rajanna Sircilla respectively arrived for the distribution of compensation cheques By PTI LAHORE: A suicide bomber targeting Pakistani security personnel blew himself up outside a revered Sufi shrine here in Punjab province on Wednesday, killing at least 10 people, including five police commandos, and injuring 25 others as the country marks Ramzan. The powerful blast took place around 8:45 am (local time) outside Gate number 2 of the Data Darbar shrine, the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia, where the elite police personnel were deployed for security after a suicide attack in 2010, police said. The condition of four policemen is stated to be critical. Punjab Inspector General Police Arif Nawaz told reporters that it was a suicide attack and 7kg of explosives were used in the blast. "The target of the suicide bomber was the vehicle of the Elite Force that was stationed outside the shrine of Sufi saint Ali Hajvari commonly known as Data Darbar," Nawaz said. He said the suicide bomber came closer to the police personnel vehicle and blew himself up, killing five of them and injuring other four critically. One security guard and three civilians are among the dead, he said. The impact of the blast shattered the windows in nearby vehicles and buildings, Pakistani media reported. Television footage showed a number of damaged vehicles near the shrine. Lahore Deputy Commissioner Saleha Saeed told media that one of the dead bodies brought in to Mayo Hospital was that of the suspected attacker. "It was a suicide attack. Ball bearings were also used in the attack," she told reporters. Punjab Law Minister Basharat Raja said that the death toll may rise as some of the injured were in critical condition. "We condemn this cowardly act," he said and also confirmed it was suicide attack. Mayo Hospital Medical Superintendent Yar Muhammad put the death toll to nine. "We have received nine persons, including policemen dead. The condition of six injured is critical and doctors are trying their best to save their lives," he said. Prime Minister Imran Khan and other leaders condemned the attack. The premier expressed condolence to the bereaved families and directed authorities concerned to provide best possible medical treatment to those injured in the blast. A rescue operation was conducted in the area before it was cordoned off for investigation. The shrine was evacuated, with devotees moved out through exits away from the blast site. Entry to Data Darbar has since been restricted. A heavy contingent of police, Counter-Terrorism Department and forensic officials are collecting evidence from the site of the attack. The Inspector General of Police said police will share their findings once they conclude their probe. All regional police officers and city police officers have been directed to examine security in their respective areas and remain alert during the month of Ramazan. The shrine is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. In 2010, the shrine was targeted in a suicide attack that killed more than 40 people, and is heavily guarded. By AFP LAHORE: A suicide blast at one of Pakistan's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 10 people and wounded 24 in the eastern city of Lahore Wednesday, police said, in an attack claimed by the Pakistani Taliban. The blast - which a faction of the militant group claimed by email - occurred near the entrance gate for female visitors to the 11th-century Data Darbar shrine, one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia, as the country marks the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Wreckage of vehicles littered the pavement near the shrine as first responders rushed to the scene and armed security forces fanned out in the area. "As we crossed the road a blast took place in front of us," witness Ritat Shahid told AFP. She described seeing pieces of flesh fall in front of her, and added that the blast "sounded so big that we felt like our ears will burst". The emergency room at the Mayo Hospital in Lahore was crowded with the wounded, and people searching for loved ones, an AFP reporter saw. Among them was Azra Bibi, whose son Muhammad Shahid cares for visitors' shoes that must be removed before entering. He has been missing since the blast, she said. "They are not Muslims," she said, referring to the attackers. "They even targeted worshippers." The shrine has long been home to colourful Sufi festivals and a prime destination for the country's myriad Muslim sects, making it a soft target for militant attacks. It has been targeted previously, in a 2010 suicide attack which killed more than 40 people. Since then the area has been increasingly hemmed in by heavy security, with visitors forced to pass through several layers of screening before they can enter the complex. Sufi worshippers, who follow a mystical strain of Islam, have frequently been the target of bloody attacks in Pakistan by Islamist militants -- including the Islamic State group - who consider their beliefs, and rituals at the graves of Muslim saints, as heresy. Senior police official Muhammad Ashfaq told a press conference that the security personnel at the shrine were targeted. Three police officials, two security guards and five civilians including a child were among the dead, Punjab province chief minister Usman Buzdar said. Busy shrine Pakistan's push against extremism was stepped up after the country's deadliest-ever attack, an assault on a school in Peshawar in 2014 that left more than 150 people dead -- mostly children. Since then, security has dramatically improved, but militants retain the ability to carry out major attacks. Major urban centres such as Lahore, Pakistan's second largest city and the provincial capital of its wealthiest province, Punjab, are not immune. An attack in the city in March last year left nine people dead, while a major blast targeting Christians celebrating Easter in a park in 2016 killed more than 70 people. Critics have long argued the military and government crackdown has not addressed the root causes of extremism in Pakistan, where hardline Muslim groups often target religious minorities. The Data Darbar complex contains the shrine of Saint Syed Ali bin Osman Al-Hajvery, popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh. Originally from Afghanistan, he was one of the most popular Sufi preachers on the subcontinent. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the shrine each spring to mark his death anniversary, while it is also crowded weekly with worshippers listening to qawwali, a traditional form of Islamic devotional music. By PTI UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appreciated India's support to the counter-terrorism work of the world body and underscored the need to "detect and disrupt" terrorists fleeing the Islamic State prior to them carrying out an attack as a high priority for the international community. The UN chief made these remarks during the launch of the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel Programme on Tuesday, over two weeks after the Easter Sunday terror attacks in Sri Lanka claimed by the ISIS. The programme would help to strengthen international counter-terrorism cooperation, expand multilateral networks for sharing information to detect, identify, disrupt and prosecute terrorists and to ensure that member states most affected by terrorism have the capacity to tackle this evolving threat, he said. "The United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel Programme we launch today is about helping to meet all these objectives. I would like to thank the Dutch Government for its generous contribution to this effort," he said. "I appreciate the continued support of the Governments of India, Japan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar to the counter-terrorism work of the United Nations," Guterres said. The UN chief noted that following the territorial defeat of ISIL (also known as ISIS and Islamic State), many terrorists are trying to return home or relocate to safe havens or other troubled parts of the world. "Many are well trained and could carry out future terrorist attacks. Others hope to radicalize and recruit new followers to their cause. They, as well as those they inspire, represent a major transnational threat," he said. "Detecting and disrupting these terrorists and other high-risk criminals prior to them carrying out an attack is a high priority for the international community," he said. The programme will help member states collect, process and share travel data with other competent national and international authorities, with full respect for privacy and other fundamental freedoms, he said. "We know that policies that fully respect human rights are essential in tackling violent extremism. This information sharing will enhance the abilities of member states to effectively detect, prevent, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences, including their related travel," Guterres added. Highlighting that there has been a dramatic movement of terrorists to and from conflict zones around the world over the last seven years, he said that just two years ago, more than 40,000 people from more than 110 countries may have travelled to join terrorist groups in the Syrian Arab Republic and Iraq. "The recent despicable attacks in Kenya, New Zealand and Sri Lanka, among others, are tragic reminders of the global reach of the scourge of terrorism," he said, adding such incidents underscore the need to work closely with partners across the United Nations system and beyond. The General Assembly and Security Council resolution 2396 have reaffirmed the need to strengthen international cooperation and information sharing to improve national detection capacities and prevent the travel of terrorists, Guterres said. "Importantly, this (the programme) will also enable the detection and disruption of human trafficking and other forms of serious organised crime and to faster identify their victims," he said. Guterres said that the UN family is ready to assist in protecting and ensuring the rights of all victims whose interests are served by this project. "It represents the kind of cooperative, inter-governmental and institutional approach that I aimed for when I established the Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact last year to enhance counter-terrorism coordination and coherence across the system," he stressed. In that context, the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre has also stepped up its efforts to meet the growing expectations and demands from countries most affected by terrorism, he said. Champaign, IL (61820) Today Partly cloudy skies this evening will give way to cloudy skies and rain overnight. Low 51F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies this evening will give way to cloudy skies and rain overnight. Low 51F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Minister Phung Xuan Nha at the meeting. (Photo: CPV) During the meeting, Minister of Education and Training Phung Xuan Nha reviewed the outstanding results of the sector, issues relating to the national high school graduation and university and college entrance exams this year, the new textbook program, prevention of violence at schools and teacher issues. Meanwhile, Pr. Hoang Chi Bao, Senior Lecturer from the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, informed the disseminators about the key contents and value of President Ho Chi Minhs testament, confirming that after 50 years, Uncle Hos precious ideology in the testament had been clarified more and more, not only for domestic people but also for international friends. Pr. Hoang Chi Bao, Senior Lecturer from the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics. (Photo: CPV) Solidarity in the Party, the training of future revolutionary generations, and the consistent target of national independence in connection with socialism, have always been considered key issues implemented by sectors and localities over the past 50 years. In 2019, the 50th anniversary of Uncle Hos death and 50th anniversary since the implementation of Uncle Hos testament is considered a chance for each cadre, Party member and Party organization to make more efforts in building a purer and stronger Party, and strengthening solidarity to build up a peaceful, united, independent, democratic and prosperous Vietnam, as aspired by Uncle Ho in his testament./. Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Edward Yau said today it is implausible to suggest the proposed fugitive law amendments will impact the citys business environment. Mr Yau was responding to the findings of a US report which also said the proposed changes to Hong Kongs extradition laws could create serious risks for US national security and economic interests in the city. He said Hong Kong attaches great importance to its ties with foreign countries, but such relations, particularly economic and trade ones, are not based on the views of a particular country or its parliament, but rather on being mutually beneficial. The commerce chief added that the report showed a need for the Government to continue explaining the Fugitive Offenders & Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Legislation (Amendment) Bill 2019 to the community. It has long been Hong Kongs practice to tackle all these problems by a very objective and also systematic way of handling legislative proposals. He noted that the amendment bill aimed to deal with a Taiwan homicide case involving a Hong Kong suspect and to plug an existing legal loophole. If there are any questions, queries or misunderstandings arising from this bill, I think it is the job of the Government to explain and articulate. There is nothing better than having the Legislative Council Bills Committee scrutinise and discuss the details of the bill, he added. Britain is backing various political and economic reforms adopted by the Government to turn around the countrys economy. This was said by British Ambassador to Zimbabwe Ms Melanie Robinson when she paid a courtesy call on Zanu-PF Secretary for Administration Cde Obert Mpofu at his Zanu-PF Headquarters offices in Harare yesterday. The meeting was also attended by the ruling partys Politburo members, who included Cdes Cleveria Chizema, Sydney Sekeramayi and Josaya Hungwe. We had a good opportunity to discuss the UK-Zimbabwe relationship and I was able to assure the chairman (Secretary for Administration) of the UKs commitment to seeing Zimbabwe succeed and our desire to see Zimbabwe along its pathway to a more prosperous, peaceful and democratic future, she said. I was able to express our support for the reforms the President has laid out on the economic and political side and that those reforms are meaningful and sustained and to say the more Zimbabwe is able to reform, the more the UK is able to engage and support that reform process. We had a very productive discussion around those issues. Cde Mpofu said the discussions centred on Governments reform agenda. said. The discussion we had this morning revolved around reforms; constitutional reforms, the land policy, the Motlanthe Commission, economic issues to do with the sanctions, the issues to do with our currency and other related issues, Cde Mpofusaid. But I can assure you that the meeting was very helpful in terms of issues topical between us. On the issue of the Commonwealth, the ambassador spoke strongly about the need for Zimbabwe to go back to the Commonwealth. Western sanctions are making it difficult for Government to turn around the economy. he embargo denies the country lines of credit vital to revitalise the economy. so. The African Union (AU), Sadc and progressive members of the international community have called for the removal of sanctions to enable Zimbabwe turn around her economy, but those who have imposed the embargo are reluctant to doso. Government has adopted a number of policy measures that include opening up the economy and aligning laws with the Constitution to create an enabling environment for investors. The reform policy is outlined in the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP), whose aim is to lay the foundation for a middle-income economy by the year 2030. Herald Aerial photo taken on April 24, 2019 shows the newly-built dwellings and a school in Wen'anyi Town, Yanchuan County of Yan'an City, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao) XI'AN, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Yan'an, a former revolutionary base of the Communist Party of China (CPC), is no longer labeled "poor," as its last two impoverished counties have shaken off poverty, the Shaanxi provincial government announced Tuesday. Yan'an hosted the then headquarters of the CPC and the center of the Communist revolution from 1935 to 1948. The city is now home to more than 350 sites related to the Chinese revolution. Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed the need to end poverty in old revolutionary base areas and improve local people's standard of living. Xi said a well-off society is incomplete if people in old revolutionary base areas cannot shake off poverty. The counties of Yanchuan and Yichuan, with a population of 192,000 and 120,000 respectively and both located along the western bank of the Yellow River, have limited fertile valley fields. Villagers there had been plagued by poverty for decades. American journalist Edgar Snow wrote in his 1937 book "Red Star over China" that the area was "one of the poorest parts of China" he had seen. According to the provincial poverty relief office, poverty-stricken residents in the two counties now only account for 1.06 and 0.58 percent respectively of their populations, meeting the country's requirement for an impoverished county to cast off the title. An investment of 6.25 billion yuan (920 million U.S. dollars) from the central and local governments has been poured into Yan'an over the past four years. To ensure that every household could get rid of poverty, the city has sent a total of 1,784 Party chiefs, 1,546 working teams and 37,400 cadres to live in the villages to help with poverty alleviation. A total of 693 impoverished villages in the city have shaken off poverty, with 195,000 people being lifted out of poverty. The cradle of the revolution has continued to undergo tremendous changes over the past decades. Improved environment and infrastructure, booming agricultural economy, increasingly affordable education and healthcare, and multiple career choices for rural residents have rejuvenated the city. GREENER CITY ON LOESS PLATEAU Located in the hinterland of the Loess Plateau, where 258 million tonnes of mud and sand were once washed into the Yellow River each year, Yan'an used to be vulnerable to drought and floods. The adverse natural environment and poor industrial foundation has not only affected the city but also instilled in the locals the importance of environmental protection while struggling with poverty. About 40 km south to the city center of Yan'an, Nanniwan Township is famous for a large-scale production campaign mobilized by late Chinese leader Mao Zedong in the 1940s, urging a revolutionary spirit to reclaim farmland from the uncultivated land to become self-reliant on the grain supply. Hou Xiuzhen, 73, has witnessed the great change of the town over the past half-century. As the daughter-in-law of a veteran of the brigade of Chinese Eighth Route Army which led the campaign at that time, Hou and her husband continued to do farm work in the fields cultivated by the brigade after the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. "In the 1950s, the hills were covered by farmland instead of trees. But we barely had much grain yield due to the barren soil and arid climate," Hou said. With government subsidies, Hou led her villagers to plant trees in the surrounding hills in 1999. Thanks to two decades of reforestation, Nanniwan now has a new look, with all the surrounding mountains covered with green trees in late spring. "Last year, we successfully planted over 26 hectares of lotus, which attracted plenty of tourists. I had never heard that lotus could grow on the loess plateau. So you know how the environment has changed here," Hou said. Growing grains failed to help farmers in Yan'an cast off poverty, but planting trees made it. The vegetation coverage of Yan'an has increased from 46 percent in 2000 to the current 81.3 percent. ROAD TO FORTUNE Mashuping, a cliff village on the Yellow River bank, was one of the poorest villages in Yichuan County, where most of its population are living in the mountainous areas. Until the completion of a road, Fu Changhong from a registered poor household in Mashuping had never been to the renowned Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River, only 30 km away from his village. The road Fu mentioned is a newly-built highway along the Yellow River, which opened to traffic in 2017. The north-south highway, stretching 828.5 km along the west bank of the Yellow River, has contributed to the poverty alleviation of the three once poorest counties of Yan'an, including Yichuan and Yanchuan. "In the past, we had no ways to go out of the village but a narrow meandering footpath," Fu said. "I used to look at the Yellow River and thought how nice if it were a road." About 20 years ago, local villagers started to grow Sichuan pepper trees, seeds of which are a popular seasoning found in Sichuan cuisine. But they had to sell the farm produce at very low prices to dealers who came by motorbikes. "With the highway, we can sell peppers to factories directly at much better prices," said Fu. Wang Ruixin, Party chief of Liuwantou Village which administers Mashuping, said the annual per capita income of the village was 10,300 yuan last year, much higher than the national poverty line of around 3,000 yuan. The highway also means a new possibility to the local apple growers, as they can sell apples to the overseas market via e-commerce. Feng Tianxing, 56, from Chunqu Village of Yichuan, said the county government has sent cadres to help them sell apples in online shops. Apple planting has played a significant part in improving local farmers' income. In 2018, the revenue from apples accounted for a half of the city's rural residents' per capita disposable income. Feng made over 20,000 yuan last year simply by growing apples. "Apples have been sold out when they were still green hanging on the trees," said Feng. CAREER SETS SAIL As the deadline to eradicate absolute poverty approaches, China redoubles its efforts to focus on the nation's poorest people in rural areas with precise and targeted measures. To train impoverished people and offer them appropriate jobs is one of such measures Yan'an has come up with. Though the nearest sea is more than 1,000 km away, Yan'an is proud of its sailor education. Nearly 2,000 sailors have graduated from Yan'an Vocational and Technical College over the past decade. Poorly educated, Yang Yufan saw no future, until he was enrolled in a four-month vocational training course as a sailor at the college. After graduation, he got a job on a general cargo ship in Southeast Asia. Now, his monthly salary is 1,200 U.S. dollars. He paid off the debt for his parents and built a two-story house in his hometown. "Sailors trained in the college are very popular by employers for they carry the Yan'an spirit characterized by arduous struggling," said Yang Yancun, department head of shipping engineering of the college. The city government has also cut tuition fees to encourage more people from poor households to participate in various vocational training, according to Yang. Yan'an will continue to help the remaining impoverished people shake off poverty, and strive to enter a moderately prosperous society in all respects with the rest of the country by 2020, said Xu Xinrong, Party chief of the city. (Video reporters: Li Hua, Liu Tong; Video editor: Liu Yuting) 9 1 [ Editor: Liu Jiaming ] A FOREIGN investor is considering pulling out of the country after its proposed US$2 million diaper manufacturing project in Bulawayo stalled due to a shortage of foreign currency to import raw materials. In an interview, Masters Diapers Zimbabwe director Mr Nigam Desai, whose project is the first of its kind in the city, said their investor, a Mauritian company, which is registered in South Africa, has given them 30 days up to May 21, 2019 to show progression of the project. Recently, we had a meeting with our investors and they expressed concerns on the delay of this project going ahead. Its now almost one year and they have been very patient but they have now come to the point where theyre considering withdrawing the investment from Zimbabwe, he said. This is due to the fact that the machines have been here in the country for almost a year, the concerns are that the machines are sitting idle, gathering dust and rusting and the technology has been compromised. You cant allow the machinery to sit like this for too long, its not generating any income and maybe in two-three years time, the machines will become obsolete because the technology is moving at such a fast pace. The foreign investor bought the equipment for Masters Diapers Zimbabwe with the hope that the local company would source its own income or foreign currency to secure raw materials for the project to take off. The diaper manufacturing business was expected to kick off between November and December last year but still hangs in the balance as Masters Diapers Zimbabwe is yet to secure an undisclosed amount of foreign currency allocation from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ). As such, they (investors) do not see solid direction in Zimbabwe, all they got are promises of various Government officials, Mr Desai said, adding that RBZ Governor Dr John Mangudya had assured them of forex allocation. How can we ask our investors to wait? Recently, they gave us 30 days that if nothing solid comes up, then the machines will be repatriated back to where they came from and this is a sad situation and we have tried everything and we dont know what to do. Glue, palp and tapes are some of the raw materials that would be imported from around the world from countries such as China, America, India and Singapore. Masters Diapers Zimbabwe said in the past it made several contact attempts through its banks directly with the Central Bank and Dr Mangudya had assured the company in November last year that funds would be availed for the project. Comment could not be obtained from Dr Mangudya yesterday as his mobile phone was not being answered. We recently met the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (Dr Mavis Sibanda) and she was delighted with this project being one of the first projects being put in Bulawayo and was saddened by the fact that if things dont work out investment will be withdrawn. She could not believe the project has taken over a year and nothing has happened and she did say that she will try her best to look into it and see what she can do for us, Mr Desai said. So, we have now come to a grinding halt, staff have been trained for four months and all that money is going to the waste, monies have been put into revamping this whole premise. The whole project is going to fail and this is not a good picture for foreign investors that want to come here and invest in Zimbabwe. It was hoped that once the plant starts producing, Masters Diapers Zimbabwe would export 60 to 70 percent of its product to countries like Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The countrys trade promotion and export development body, ZimTrade, has already done a market research for the foreign market with indications of a readily available market. First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa yesterday officially opened an early cervical cancer detection and treatment centre at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare where women will be screened for free in a move aimed at fighting the silent killer. The Chinese government, through Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, partnered with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and donated the equipment to be used. The First Lady, who was on Monday appointed Health and Child Care Ambassador, has been leading in the fight against cancer urging women to get tested for cervical and breast cancer. She led by example when she got screened for cervical and breast cancer at United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH), as a way of motivating women to do the same. Her awareness campaigns saw over 100 000 women undergoing cervical cancer screening last year. Officiating the event yesterday, the First Lady urged women to take advantage of the newly opened clinical camp and get screened early. I salute the collaborative efforts by the two sister hospitals Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital in alleviating the scourge of cervical cancer which, according to statistics from the Zimbabwe Cancer Registry, is the most common cancer among women, she said. Today is a significant day for me as I witness two great hospitals from different parts of the world walking the talk in addressing this global health challenge. As such, I would like to commend the kind gesture made by China through Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital to continue partnering Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in this noble cause. I have also noted that Harare tops the provinces in terms of the number of women with confirmed cervical cancer. It is therefore befitting that this screening and treating camp is done here at an institution in Harare, she said. The First Lady thanked the Chinese government for donating the equipment. I would like to appreciate the equipment that you donated to this organisation and other resources that you have channelled towards this programme. The developed world has managed to reduce the incidents of cervical cancer through the use of cytology-based screening, a great breakthrough and one of modern medicines. Of the 275 000 cervical cancer deaths recorded globally annually, 85 percent occur in developing countries. Our efforts in the Third World to replicate similar results have not taken us anywhere near our wishes due to a number of reasons among them lack of resources. Health and Child Care Minister Dr Obadiah Moyo said he was happy that cervical cancer, which is a dreaded non-communicable disease among women, was receiving much attention in the country. I want to assure you that my ministry will continue to fight this scourge and we shall not relent in this fight, he said. This is the third time in three consecutive years that such a clinical camp has been held at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and we hope that this phase will see over 3 000 women being screened and some receiving the necessary treatment. I am happy that the First Lady continues to distinguish herself in the area of health and child care. We are proud of her good work. Speaking at the same event, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Guo Shaochun said: In response to the call for assisting in health delivery in developing countries including Zimbabwe, President Xi Jinping announced at the 2015 UN Sustainable Development Summit that China will implement 100 maternal and child health projects in developing countries, especially in Africa. Fairbanks, AK (99707) Today Cloudy. Light snow likely late. Low -7F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 60%. Snow accumulations less than one inch.. Tonight Cloudy. Light snow likely late. Low -7F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 60%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. The Daily News-Miner encourages residents to make themselves heard through the Opinion pages. Readers' letters and columns also appear online at newsminer.com. Contact the editor with questions at letters@newsminer.com or call 459-7574. Community Perspective Send Community Perspective submissions by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Submissions must be 500 to 750 words. Columns are welcome on a wide range of issues and should be well-written and well-researched with attribution of sources. Include a full name, email address, daytime telephone number and headshot photograph suitable for publication (email jpg or tiff files at 150 dpi.) You may also schedule a photo to be taken at the News-Miner office. The News-Miner reserves the right to edit submissions or to reject those of poor quality or taste without consulting the writer. Letters to the editor Send letters to the editor by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707), by fax (907-452-7917) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Writers are limited to one letter every two weeks (14 days.) All letters must contain no more than 350 words and include a full name (no abbreviation), daytime and evening phone numbers and physical address. (If no phone, then provide a mailing address or email address.) The Daily News-Miner reserves the right to edit or reject letters without consulting the writer. Chiba Prefectural Police have arrested a 68-year-old man over the alleged fatal strangulation of his wife at their residence in Ichikawa City, reports the Yomiuri Shimbun On Sunday evening, officers working off a tip found Kumi Horike, 66, collapsed atop a futon in a room of the residence, located in the Fukuei area. Kumi was later confirmed dead at a hospital, according to the Gyotoku Police Station. On Monday, police arrested her husband, Toru, on suspicion of murder. The suspect is believed to have used rubber tube found inside the residence to fatally strangle his wife. aMy wife was trying to commit suicide, and I wanted her to die as soon as possible to end her suffering,a the suspect said in admitting to the allegations. After committing the alleged crime on Sunday, Toru informed one of his sons that Kumi awas not breathing.a At around 9:20 p.m., the son tipped off police. Pupils demonstrate smiley cards to greet the upcoming World Smile Day at a primary school in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei Province, May 7, 2019. World Smile Day is celebrated on May 8 every year. (Xinhua/Cao Jianxiong) 6 1 [ Editor: zyq ] Tourist destinations are struggling for ways to ask tourists to stop eating while walking without offending them. One such place is Nishiki Market, which for over 400 years has been known as the kitchen of Kyoto. The municipal government estimates that around 30 percent of all foreign tourists in Kyoto in 2017 visited the market and its more than 120 stores selling kyAyasai (heirloom vegetables), fresh fish or pickled vegetables. In recent years, many shops have been selling foods that are easy to eat while walking, such as fried food on skewers, in line with the increase in foreign travelers, according to the market association. However, litter has now become common on the narrow street. Also, concern has grown that in crowded conditions pedestrians risk getting injured by sharp food sticks carried by others. In a bid to address these problems, the association has asked stores since last October to display signs saying aNo eating while walkinga in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. Since the market association doesnat want to drive tourists away, for now it is asking them to cooperate rather than outright banning the practice. On its website, the association calls on people to eat their food at the shop where it was purchased. The Vietnamese FM made the statement whilst speaking at the Sweden - Vietnam Business Summit, which opened in Hanoi on May 7 on the occasion of the visit by Crown Princess Victoria and her spouse to Vietnam from May 6 to 8. The event was co-organised by the Swedish Embassy in Hanoi, the Swedish Trade & Invest Council and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. It brought together over 1,000 delegates from ministries, agencies, and international organisations, including 70 businesspeople representing 50 Swedish firms and trade organisations led by Swedish Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde. Major fields set as a focus for sustainable development and innovation including manufacturing, solutions for consumers, healthcare and education were discussed at the summit. Speaking at the event, Deputy PM and FM Minh spoke highly of Swedens support for Vietnam's national unification, socio-economic development, hunger eradication and poverty reduction during the past half a century, helping Vietnam to promptly complete multiple UN Millennium Development Goals. Swedish-built projects in Vietnam have become a symbol of friendship between the two nations, such as the Hanoi-based Vietnam National Children's Hospital, Bai Bang Paper Mill and Uong Bi Hospital, FM Minh said. Today, the relationship between the two sides has entered a new stage based on an equal partnership foundation. Sweden is an important and reliable partner of Vietnam in the European Union (EU), with bilateral trade turnover continuing to grow well, reaching US$1.5 billion in 2018. Sweden currently has 67 investment projects in Vietnam with a total registered capital of US$364 million, ranking 34th out of 130 countries and territories investing in Vietnam. Saying that it is golden time to develop bilateral relations in general and economic, trade and investment cooperation in particular, Deputy PM added that the Vietnamese economy is improving with more stable and transparent laws and policies, attracting investors globally, as well as from the EU and Sweden in particular. Vietnam wants to acquire experience from the worlds leading technological groups in order to catch up with the fourth industrial revolution, he said. Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree delivers a speech at the event. (Photo: VNA) Crown Princess Victoria said Vietnam and Sweden have fostered a long-standing and sustainable partnership based on mutual trust and respect over the past five decades. She expressed support for Vietnams commitment to the fulfilment of the United Nations sustainable development goals till 2030, and said with optimism that the event will afford both countries and their firms a chance to enhance cooperation. The appeal court sitting in Abuja has slated Thursday for judgement in the Osun state governorship election. In a hearing notice i... The appeal court sitting in Abuja has slated Thursday for judgement in the Osun state governorship election. In a hearing notice issued on Wednesday, the court said it will hear the appeal filed by Gboyega Oyetola, governor of the state, against Ademola Adeleke, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), by 9am. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the September 2018 election. In March, a three-man panel of the election tribunal led by Ibrahim Sirajol, held that Oyetola was not validly returned as the winner of the election and subsequently declared Adeleke winner. The tribunal ruled that the rerun which finally produced Oyetola as winner was the outcome of the illegal cancellation of results in some of the polling units during the main election. It held that the returning officer lacked the power to cancel the votes in affected polling units. The panel asked INEC to issue a fresh certificate of return to Adeleke and withdraw the one given to Oyetola. But Oyetola rejected the judgement and headed to the appellate court, saying justice will prevail at last. In April, the five-man panel of the appeal court reserved judgement after the parties had adopted their final briefs of argument. The Ohaneze Ndigbo and Yoruba Afenifere group have asked Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity... The Ohaneze Ndigbo and Yoruba Afenifere group have asked Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, not to liken them to Miyetti Allah. The groups stated that Miyetti Allah is a killer group and have been engaging in kidnapping and killing people, acts they do not commit. Shehu in a television interview with Channels TV on Tuesday asked Nigerians not to see Miyetti Allah as bandits but as socio-cultural group like Afenifere and Ohaneze Ndigbo. It is a mistake to say the Nigerian government is talking to bandits. The Miyetti Allah group is like the Ohanaeze and Afenifere. It is a socio-cultural group. There are criminals within the Yoruba race and you cannot say because of that Afenifere is a group of criminals, Shehu said. See their reactions below.... Ohanaeze Reacts... In a swift reply to the comments, the Ohaneze while speaking to the to newsmen vehemently disagreed with Shehu stating that the only recognizable socio-cultural group in the North it can relate with is the Arewa Consultative Forum. Speaking for the group, Uche Achi-Okpaga, spokesperson of Ohaneze, said there is no justification to compare the Ohaneze with a group of criminals. He said, There is no justification for such a comparison. It is a bad comparison. Ohanaeze is a regional body that is promoting the unity of the Igbo; so also is Afenifere to the Yoruba and the ACF to northerners. We also have the Middle Belt Forum in the North-Central and PANDEF for the South-South. You can never put Ohanaeze and Miyetti Allah on the same pedestal. These people are invading villages, killing people, and you are telling us that they are on the same page with Ohanaeze. There is no justification for that. This is an organisation that the Global Terrorist Index has described as the worlds fourth deadly terrorist organisation. These people are just negotiating with criminals. We are in a state of lawlessness. Afenifere's Response. Similarly, Yinka Odumakin, spokesperson of the Afenifere also disagreed with the Presidency while saying that the group does not abduct and kill people as the Miyetti Allah does. He branded the comparison as most unfair and very unfortunate. Odumakin said, We are surprised that the spokesperson (Shehu) was talking like someone under the influence of drugs. In Afenifere, we dont kill, we dont abduct people. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a fresh probe against Senate President Bukola Saraki. The probe, ... The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched a fresh probe against Senate President Bukola Saraki. The probe, which comes a week after the commencement of an earlier probe against Saraki, was announced on Tuesday. In a statement, Yusuph Olaniyonu, spokesman to the senate president, said the anti-graft agency wrote to the clerk of the senate late last week, requesting among other things details of contracts from 2015 till date. The letter said to have been signed by Mohammed Umar Abba, director of operations at EFCC, requested: the Certified True Copies of the following: i) All Cash Books, Payment Vouchers, Contract Award Letters, Evidence of Contract Bidding, Agreement and Certificate of Contract Completion from 2015 to date. ii) Certified True Copies of all Financial Retirement made within the same period. iii) Any other information that may assist the Commission in its investigation. The EFCC had in a letter dated April 26, and addressed to the permanent secretary, Kwara state government house, requested details of Sarakis earnings during his time as governor of Kwara state between 2003 and 2011. Olaniyonu, however, faulted the new probe, saying it is the first time such a letter is written to the office of the senate president at the twilight of the tenure of the national assembly indicating hostile investigation along these lines. None of his predecessors got such exclusive treatment in which their office was investigated by state officials seeking to nail them at all cost, he said. What EFCC does not know is that all the issues they are seeking to probe in the office of the Senate President are handled by the National Assembly Management, that is the bureaucracy of the federal legislature. The Senate President has nothing to do with such issues. However, in the eagerness and desperation to nail Dr. Saraki, they ignored even the basic facts upon which the entire investigation rests. LABEL TO DAMAGE PLOT The spokesman to the senate president also accused the EFCC of singling Saraki out for persistent investigation, adding that the fresh investigations are signs of witch-hunt. This new investigation into his activities as Governor of Kwara State is a repeat performance. The EFCC is fishing for evidence that they did not get in the past investigations which has spanned almost nine years, he said. To single out one individual for persistent investigation can only be logically and plausibly interpreted to be a witch-hunt. This is definitely no fight against corruption. It is a battle waged against a political enemy. It is a label to damage plot. Gov. Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has cautioned all Commissioners, Special Advisers, Members of Boards and Commissions, Special Assistant... Gov. Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has cautioned all Commissioners, Special Advisers, Members of Boards and Commissions, Special Assistants and other Personal Aides from granting press interviews without permission from the governor. The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem gave the directive in a statement made available to newsmen in Uyo on Wednesday. According to him, the directive is part of efforts to streamline and ensure a coordinated approach to information management and dissemination in the state. The Akwa Ibom State Government has directed that all government functionaries, including Commissioners, Special Advisers, Members of Boards and Commissions, Special Assistants and other Personal Aides of the Governor should henceforth desist from granting press interviews without the permission of Gov. Mr Udom Emmanuel. The Commissioner for Information and Strategy as well as the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor are exempted from this directive. They will continue to carry out their functions accordingly as the spokespersons to the State Government and the Governor respectively, Ekuwem said. They will continue to carry out their functions accordingly as the spokespersons to the State Government and the Governor respectively, Ekuwem said. President Muhammadu Buhari has again declined assent to two more bills transmitted to him by the National Assembly. This latest re... President Muhammadu Buhari has again declined assent to two more bills transmitted to him by the National Assembly. This latest rejection brings to 40 the total number of bills Buhari had declined assent since the inauguration of the 8th National Assembly on June 9, 2015. Buhari in two separate letters sent to Senate President Bukola Saraki and, read at plenary today explained reasons for his withdrawal of assent to the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority Bill and Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority Bill. Explaining his reasons, Buhari said section 14 (d), section 30(2d) of the Nigeria Tourism Development Authority (Repeal and re-enactment) bill contradicts section 4 (1-3) and paragraph 60 (d) of the second schedule of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended. He stated, Section 30 of the bill proposing to levy a tourism fee on all in-bound international travellers, a tourism levy on all out-bound travellers and a tourism departure contribution fee of one percent per hotel room rate. Such flat fee has been fixed by the authority and a corporate tourism development levy of one percent to be charged on the revenue of banks, telecommunications and other corporate entities. This will be inimical to the growth of the tourism and hospitality industry in Nigeria and constitute additional burden on the tourism business, the letter reads. The President also said he was rejecting the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority Bill based on the issue of funding and overlap of functions. He stated: The comprehensive definition of the Nigeria Inland Waterways covers virtually all rivers, lakes and lagoons irrespective of the location of the body. The bill contradicts provisions of the constitution which limits the power of the National Assembly to make laws in relation to water from sources affecting more than one state of inland waterways which has been declared to be an international waterway or inter-state waterway. The bill as currently drafted subjected the Ministry of Water Resources, the Ministry of Environment and Nigeria Ports Authority to the supervision of the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority. The funding provision of the bill seeks to appropriate 25 per cent of the ports development levy annually and 15 percent of the ecological fund annually. Also, one percent of the funds will be accruable to the federal government for oil and gas within the cleared waterways and the right of way. The House of Representatives, Wednesday resolved to probe alleged fraudulent activities in the Presidential Amnesty Programme. It,... The House of Representatives, Wednesday resolved to probe alleged fraudulent activities in the Presidential Amnesty Programme. It, therefore, set up an ad-hoc committee to investigate and report back to the house in two weeks. This development followed an adopted motion by Hon. Tajudeen Adekunle titled, Urgent Need to Investigate Activities in the Presidential Amnesty Programme. In his lead debate, Adekunle said the programme was a lofty initiative introduced by the Federal government to quell armed struggles by Niger Delta Agitators for a better deal in the nations oil-producing areas. The lawmaker also pointed out that with the proclamation of the programme, the Federal government had spent a lot of resources in training many youths of the area both locally and internationally. He added that the Federal government had even paid the sum of N8.5 billion into the Presidential Amnesty Programmes TSA account for its execution. But he regretted that reports and outcry of alleged massive looting at the Kaiama Amnesty centre between February 14 and 15 this year were worrisome. He explained that where security agents, coordinators of the centre and unknown persons were alleged to have catered away equipment worth billions of Naira in the Starter Park Warehouse allegedly to the knowledge of the Special Adviser on Amnesty to the president was unacceptable. Further, the lawmaker reported that there are alleged massive corruption and outright embezzlement of funds meant for the execution of the objective of the programme. The Senate at the plenary on Wednesday summoned the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, over the poor state of teaching hospitals ... The Senate at the plenary on Wednesday summoned the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, over the poor state of teaching hospitals in the country, demanding accountability on the funds allocated to the health sector by the Federal Government over the years. During the debate on a motion moved by Senator David Umaru and entitled Alarming Report on Poor Quality of Services in Nigerian Teaching Hospitals, the lawmakers took turns to decry the poor services rendered by public health institutions. While some lawmakers alleged corruption and mismanagement of resources in the health sector, others noted the poor welfare of health workers. Granting prayers of the motion, the lawmakers mandated the Committee on Health to conduct an emergency investigative hearing on the state of health care services in our teaching hospitals and report back to the Senate within one week. They also resolved to summon the Honourable Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, to brief the Senate on the current state of facilities and health care services in Nigerias teaching hospitals. While the Senate urge the Federal Government to adopt a policy on subsidising the medical expenses of patients with terminal ailments such as cancer and kidney failure, the chamber urged the government to immediately adopt short and long-term measures that will holistically address the challenges confronting our teaching hospitals and retool them for excellent tertiary health care services in the country. President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, who presided over the session blamed the decay in the countrys health facilities on corruption. Saraki said, It is a very important and urgent intervention that is required from us. So, we need to get the minister here as quickly as possible. As you all have said, it gives one a great concern when you consider every year, a budgetary allocation is made. No matter how inadequate it is, surely it should be adequate enough to be able to have a facility that patients can be taken care of. Where patients are lying on the floors, surely, is a big shame to the institution. Surely, as you all rightly said, it is corruption. It means that the majority of these budgetary allocations are not used for what they were allocated for, they must have been used for something else. That is why I am happy that the next item we have (on the Order Paper) is the need to strengthen the auditor-generals office. The EFCC just released a statement replying Senate President who in a press release accused the antigraft agency of planning to witchh... The EFCC just released a statement replying Senate President who in a press release accused the antigraft agency of planning to witchhunt him. Recall that the agency has concluded plans to investigate Saraki's time as governor of Kwara state from 2003 to 2011. The anti-graft agency in a letter signed by its Zonal head, Isyaku Sharu and sent to the Kwara state government recently, stated that Saraki is to be investigated for an alleged case of conspiracy, abuse of office, misappropriation of public funds, theft, and money laundering. Saraki in a statement released via his media aide, Yusuf Olaniyonu, said this new investigation into his activities as Governor of Kwara State is a repeat performance. According to Saraki, ''The EFCC is fishing for evidence that they did not get in the past investigations which has spanned almost nine years. However, we need to remind the Commission that Dr. Saraki is not an outgoing Governor. Since 2011, tens of governors have been in and out of our various State Houses. Like wise, hundreds of Senators and Representatives have been in and out of the National Assembly. To single out one individual for persistent investigation can only be logically and plausibly interpreted to be a witch-hunt. This is definitely no fight against corruption. It is a battle waged against a political enemy. It is a label to damage plot''. In a statement released this afternoon, the EFCC said it can investigate Saraki anytime it wishes as he is not above the law. Read the statement below The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has taken note of the reactions of the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki to the Commission's inquiries regarding his earnings as Kwara State governor as well as on the quality of his financial stewardship in the Senate. While it is his prerogative to ventilate his views on the matter as he deems fit, the Commission takes great exception at the desperate attempt to cast a slur on its investigative activities by portraying Saraki as a victim of persecution. Furthermore, the Agency finds the attempt by the Senate President to tie our inquest to his International Human Rights Commission, IHRC appointment and his approaching life out of power as misleading, knowing too well that the background to our current inquiries reaches several years back. For the avoidance of doubt, the EFCC is obligated by law to enthrone probity and accountability in the governance space and has supremely pursued this duty without ill-will or malice against anyone. It is in the interest of the public, and for Saraki's personal good, that he is not only above board, but be seen at all times to be so. Indeed, all the instances in which the EFCC have had cause to sleuth into his financial activities either as a former governor or President of the Senate were driven by overarching public interest and due process of the law. Against the background of the posse of indicting petitions and other evidence available to the EFCC, even Saraki will agree with the Commission that putting him through a legitimate forensic inquiry is the legitimate route to establish his integrity as a public servant. The distinguished Senate President has no need to fret so long as he has no skeletons in his cupboard. The Commission has a sacred mandate to rid the country of corruption and corrupt elements and restates its unflinching resolve to achieve these, no matter whose ox is gored. On the sidelines of the event, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development worked with the Vietnamese Embassy and Trade Office in Belgium and the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) to hold a forum on Vietnamese seafood and cooperation prospects. VASEP also collaborated with the Directorate of Fisheries and the southernmost province of Ca Mau to organise a seminar on tra fish and Vietnamese shrimp. Speaking at the forum, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien said the Vietnamese fisheries sector focuses on developing its products towards applying modern technology, increasing product quality and values, diversifying products, and ensuring food security, safety and hygiene. Javier Cordova Fernandez, Deputy General Manager at Mitsui & Co Europe PLC, said the company has bought Vietnamese shrimp products for years thanks to their good quality and competitive prices. European consumers pay attention to their health, he stated, advising Vietnamese enterprises to increase product traceability and expand the use of organic feed in aquatic farming. Last year, Vietnam exported 275,800 tonnes of aquatic products to the EU, earning US$1.4 billion, making it the second biggest importer of Vietnamese aquatic products. Speaking at a conference in Ho Chi Minh City on May 7, Nick Reitmeier, Vice Executive President of Foothalls International Food & Alcohol Buying at Central Food Retail Co, Ltd. under Central Group, Thailand, the annual event aims to give Vietnamese firms a chance to explore the demand of local consumers, thus promoting their products and increasing export to Thailand. He said Vietnam has a lot of high quality products, but there is a lack of knowledge about these products in Thailand, as well as brand building from Vietnamese businesses, he said. He said Vietnamese businesses must thoroughly research the Thai market and understand that famous brands in Vietnam may not have the same popularity in Thailand. Vietnam exports many high-quality raw materials for foreign businesses, but Vietnamese branded products are not well-known, he noted. Local businesses should differentiate themselves from domestic brands in Thailand, communicating their high quality to Thai consumers and paying attention to package design, he added. During the conference, more than 120 enterprises of Ho Chi Minh City learned about standards for goods sold in international distribution and import systems of Thailand. Tracing the history of aggrecan gene mutations On Sunday, April 28, a team of researchers received the 2019 Human Growth Award at the Pediatric Endocrine Society's Annual Meeting for their abstract, entitled "Clinical Characterization and Trial of Growth Hormone in Patients with Aggrecan Deficiency: 6 Month Data," and presented this at the PES Presidential Poster Session. Eirene Alexadrou, M.D., a fellow at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, accepted the award and honorarium, while ongoing research is underway. This study started in 2017, with the objective of characterizing the phenotypic spectrum and response to a standardized regimen of growth hormone in a small cohort of 10 patients and their families. In 2017, Andrew Dauber, M.D., MMSc., the division chief of endocrinology at Children's National Health System, led an international consortium of researchers in publishing a manuscript describing the phenotypic spectrum of 103 individuals - 70 adults and 33 children, including 57 females and 46 males - from 20 families with aggrecan gene (ACAN) mutations. Dr. Dauber and his colleagues have established that short stature and accelerated bone age is common among people with ACAN mutations. In a review of retrospective data, including patients treated with a variety of growth-promoting therapies at varying doses, the research team found that over the first one, two and three years of treatment, the standard deviation scores (SDS) for height increased by .4, .7 and 1, respectively. The current abstract now describes six children enrolled in a prospective standardized trial of growth hormone therapy. After six months of treatment, the children have increased their height SDS by an average of 0.46, the equivalent of a mean increased height velocity of 9.5 centimeters each year. The researchers are now performing an in-depth look at joint effects, examining special MRIs of the knees. They found that two of the children had a problem with their knee cartilage called osteochondritis dissecans. They had not yet presented with clinical symptoms. The researchers hope that early intervention with physical therapy can help prevent significant joint disease in the future. "Providing growth hormone therapy to children with ACAN gene mutations is relatively new in the field of pediatric endocrinology," notes Dr. Dauber. "Previously, the assumption was that this was just short stature. We'll continue to diagnose ACAN mutations in a clinical setting and work with families to reduce the risk of complications, such as joint problems or early-onset arthritis, which may co-occur with this gene mutation." As an example, Dr. Dauber met an 8-year-old patient several months ago who presented with symptoms of short stature. The patient is healthy, confident and still growing so her mother wasn't worried about her but she made the appointment to see if there was an underlying cause to her daughter's short stature. Her family history revealed clues to an ACAN mutation, which was later confirmed through genetic tests. Her mom, M, stands 4'8; her grandmother is 4'9. Her great grandmother was short and her great, great grandfather was 5'1. Short stature and joint problems run in the family. Once M mentioned she had osteochondritis dissecans and a hip replacement, she provided a textbook case study for carrying the ACAN mutation. After the appointment, M shared the news with her mother about the possibility of having aggrecan deficiency. After taking genetic tests, M, her mother and M's daughter learned they all have the ACAN mutation, and enrolled in the study that Dr. Dauber is guiding. Suddenly, it all made sense. After examining family photos, they traced the ACAN mutation back through four generations. They could tell what relatives had an altered copy of the ACAN gene. M had it, while her two sisters did not. M's mother was an only child, so she didn't have aunts or uncles to compare her mother's height to, but M's grandmother was short, while her grandmother's brother was average height. Although her mother's family was from Germany, she learned that there is no specific ancestry associated with this mutation. It happens by chance and is passed down from a single parent to, on average, half of their children, a form of genetic inheritance called autosomal dominant transmission. Through further research, M learned that the ACAN gene provides instructions for producing aggrecan protein, which is essential for bone growth, as well as for the stability of cartilage that lines bones and joints, explaining her recurring joint problems. She also looked into the future, examining potential risk factors for her daughter: joint pain and bone conditions, which could contribute to arthritis, hip dysplasia and back problems. The diagnosis now makes it easier for M and her daughter to favor bone-building activities that are easy on the joints, like swimming or water aerobics, instead of gymnastics and weight lifting. After having a hip replacement, M was careful to supplement with calcium and vitamin D. Now, she'll take the same steps to ensure optimal bone health for her daughter. She'll work with orthopedic specialists as her daughter grows into her pre-teen and adolescent years, carefully monitoring joint pain - altering activities that are tough on the joints, as necessary. M let her daughter make a decision about growth hormone therapy, which her daughter decided to try. The benefits of the treatment, increased height, carry inconveniences, such as taking daily shots, but they are sticking with it. "We're at the tip of the iceberg with research that explores this gene mutation," says Dr. Dauber. "We'll continue to study these families, and more, over time to assess growth patterns and gene expression, which may reveal other mutations associated with short stature or joint problems, and guide future treatment options. It was a coincidence that this family had the ACAN mutation and scheduled an appointment, while we're conducting this study. Otherwise, they may not have had an answer since this is fairly new research." M and her daughter are happy to be part of this study, which they will participate in for the next few years. M's mother is also glad to participate. She made a different choice, decades ago, to reject hormone treatment when it was offered to her for undiagnosed short stature, but she's sharing genetic clues, which may influence treatment options for her granddaughter and for her family's next generation. ### The original study, "Clinical Characterization of Patients with Autosomal Dominant Short Stature due to Aggrecan Muations," appeared in the Feb. 2017 issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, and published as an online advance on Nov. 21, 2016. Thirty-six researchers collaborated on this original paper, which was funded by 16 international health institutes and foundations, including the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development at the National Institutes of Health, the Swedish Research Council, the Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems, the Marianne and Marcus Wallenberg Foundation, the Stockholm County Council, the Swedish Society of Medicine, Byggmastare Olle Engkvist's Foundation, the Sao Paulo Research Foundation, the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science, the Czech Health Research Council and the Ministry of Health, Czech Republic. Video: https:/ / youtu. be/ huGqyMS2gTs This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The event will take place at the Tam Chuc spiritual tourism site in the northern province of Ha Nam on the occasion of the United Nations Day of Vesak Celebrations (Vesak 2019). It will be broadcast live on VTV1. The programme will consist of two parts, with the first themed Vietnam - Buddhist land for thousands of years and the second to feature Heritage avenue. It aims to introduce the unique cultural heritage of Vietnam and other participating countries, such as the Hoa Dang dance, an important court dance in Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945); the Odissi dance, one of the ancient dances of India; and Awa Odori dance of Japan, which is believed to date from 1586, illustrating the spirit of the samurai country. Artists from Bhutan will bring to visitors the Cham dance, a traditional dance frequently performed in the biggest festivals in the country, while Indonesian artists will perform the Saman dance which bears the religious message of Gayo people in Indonesia. Each performance carries its own stories about religion, land, and people of different countries from the past to the present. All of them are intangible cultural heritage elements in the participating countries or have been recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In his address, Chairman of Hanoi municipal Peoples Committee Nguyen Duc Chung emphasised that the relationship between Vietnam and Italy is witnessing good development in all fields. The cooperation between Hanoi and Italian partners, including the Italian Embassy in Vietnam, has been continuously enhanced thanks to various cultural and art events, he added. The Hanoi leader also expressed his belief that through the exhibition, Hanoian residents and visitors will have a chance to experience the sights, culture, cuisine and development of Italy. For his part, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Enzo Moavero Milanesi said that the exhibition was part of the activities to mark the 500th death anniversary of the great Italian painter Leonardo da Vinci. He noted that friendship and cultural exchange are important factors in contributing to strengthening the mutual understanding between the two peoples. The exhibition will run until May 16. The delegates visit the exhibition (Photo: hanoimoi.com.vn) He told the guest that Vietnam always remembers Swedens valuable and effective support for its causes of socio-economic development and poverty reduction, thus helping it fulfil many Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) set by the United Nations ahead of schedule. He said he was delighted on hearing that two-way trade surpassed US$1.5 billion last year and Swedish investors are currently running 67 projects totalling US$370 million in Vietnam. However, the figures are still quite modest and yet to match the full bilateral potential, he stressed. PM Phuc conveyed his hope that the Swedish enterprises accompanying the Crown Princess on her trip will find opportunities to connect with suitable Vietnamese partners in order to help boost economic cooperation. The Vietnamese Government is working to complete institutions and create the most possible favourable conditions for foreign investors, including those from Sweden, he added. He also expressed his hope that the Swedish Royal Family and government will help to speed up the early signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) before late June 2019 to create a breakthrough for bilateral trade and economic ties. Crown Princess Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree said that the Swedish enterprises accompanying her want to foster stronger collaborations with Vietnamese partners. Swedish Minister for Foreign Trade Ann Linde stated that Sweden considers issues related to free trade agreements as highly significant. Therefore, the country will work to boost the early signing and ratification of the EVFTA, she noted. Welcoming her guests official visit, Chairwoman Ngan noted the strategic partnership has been developing in all aspects, including politics-diplomacy, trade-investment, culture-education, science-technology, and security-defence. She said the potential for bilateral cooperation remains huge, especially in trade-investment, noting that Italy has strengths in industrial production, particularly mechanical engineering, high technology, infrastructure-transport development, and energy, which are also the fields Vietnam is looking for cooperation. This June, Vietnam and Italy will co-organise the third high-level dialogue on Italy-ASEAN economic relations in Hanoi, gathering many big businesses from both sides. This will be a chance to enhance economic and trade ties between Italy and ASEAN countries, including Vietnam the biggest trade partner of the European nation in ASEAN, she said. Sharing the view on the fruitful relations in many areas, Minister Milanesi said as a founding member of the European Union, Italy has supported Vietnam during the negotiation on the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). It hopes the deal will be signed and ratified soon so as to promote trade and investment links between the EU, including Italy, and Vietnam. He highly valued Vietnams role and stature in the region, noting that despite geographical distance, the countries have been drawn closer thanks to scientific and technological development. They have also shared many common viewpoints on foreign, economic-trade, and security-defence policies. Italy can strengthen cooperation with Vietnam in its strong fields of industrial production, mechanics and precise automation, Milanesi said. He added most of companies in Italy are small and medium-sized firms, which is an advantage since they are highly dynamic and active. His country is ready to share its knowledge about the management of small and medium enterprises with Vietnam. At the meeting, Chairwoman Ngan appreciated Italys official development assistance for Vietnam, saying that its cooperation projects have been helping with her countrys sustainable development efforts. She also asked both sides to continue expanding cooperation to the fields they have strengths in and demand for. On this occasion, the host also asked Minister Milanesi to deliver the invitation to visit Vietnam to the presidents of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate of Italy. Deputy PM Binh hoped the Cambodian people will reap greater achievements in national development under the rule of King Norodom Sihamoni and the sound leadership of the Cambodian Senate, National Assembly and government in which the Cambodia Peoples Party plays a crucial role. He expressed his delight at the development of bilateral ties over the past years, evidenced by a State visit by Party General Secretary and President Nguyen Phu Trong in February and trips to Vietnam by King Sihamoni and Prime Minister Hun Sen in December 2018. The host thanked PM Hun Sen for attending the funeral of former President, General Le Duc Anh, adding that Vietnam Cambodia friendship at all levels and people-to-people diplomacy in border areas are invaluable. Speaking highly of the outcomes of cooperation between Vietnams Committee on Ethnic Minority Affairs and Cambodian Ministry of Cults and Religion, especially in training for ethnic affairs personnel, the deputy PM said both countries share cultural similarities and Buddhism plays an important role in their spiritual lives. He asked the minister to assist with seeking measures to ensure the rights of overseas Vietnamese in Cambodia. The Cambodian official informed his host on the earlier talks between him and Minister and Chairman of the Committee on Ethnic Minority Affairs Do Van Chien, during which they discussed measures to improve the efficiency of joint work in ethnic affairs. Chhem wished that the Vietnamese government would assist the Cambodian Ministry of Cults and Religion in training ethnic affairs personnel, contributing to bilateral friendship and cooperation. Linde made the pledge during her meeting with Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh in Hanoi on May 8, which took place within the framework of the visit to Vietnam by Crown Princess of Sweden Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree. Sweden will also back Vietnamese small- and medium-sized enterprises, while assisting the country in building policies, developing infrastructure, and training personnel to meet the requirements of the fourth Industrial Revolution and the digital economy, she said. The minister affirmed Swedens support to Vietnam at the European Commission (EC) in signing and ratifying the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. The Swedish Government and businesses always give deep sentiments and attention to Vietnam, she said. The two ministers noted with pleasure the development of the bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on issues of shared concern. Anh said the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) will fulfil its role as a bridge between enterprises of the two countries for mutual development, while closely coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies in setting forth development orientations in the spheres of common concern such as energy, supporting industry, retail, and vocational training. He pointed out, however, that the bilateral trade has yet to match potential of both countries. On the occasion, Anh attended the Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum and chaired the Vietnam-Sweden Business Summit. Cuong expressed the wish during his visit to Cameroon from May 6-7 in his capacity as the Vietnamese Prime Ministers Special Envoy. He met with Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute to hand over PM Nguyen Xuan Phucs letter to the Cameroon leader, and paid a courtesy visit to House Speaker of the National Assembly Cavaye Yeguie Djibril and First Vice President of the Senate Lamido Aboubakary Abdoulaye Cuong also had working sessions with the Cameroon Ministers of Foreign Affairs; Posts and Telecommunications; Justice; and Employment and Vocational Training. At the meetings, Cuong thanked the Cameroon side for its support for Vietnams bid to run for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for the 2020-2021 term. The Cameroon leaders spoke highly of cooperation between the two countries over the past years and called for more Vietnamese investments in the West African nation. The Cameroon Government will make efforts to address difficulties facing foreign investors, including those from Vietnam, and protect their legitimate interests, they pledged. The two sides talked about the operation of Viettel Cameroon SA Joint Venture, saying the two governments will work to help remove difficulties facing the joint venture. They agreed to increase high-level visits, soon complete the ratification of the cooperation framework agreement between the two countries, and push ahead with negotiations on agreements on investment encouragement and protection, and double-tax avoidance. 32 teams from universities across the country will compete from May 7 to 12. The best team will go on to represent Vietnam at the ABU Asia-Pacific Robot Contest 2019 in Mongolia in August, which will bring together the best team of each country in the Asia-Pacific region to compete on the international playground. ABU Robocon 2019 will be held in Ulaanbaatar, the capital and largest city of Mongolia, with the slogan "Sharing the knowledge". This years contest theme of Great Urtuu is inspired by a traditional messenger system of Mongolia called Urtuu, which was innovated by the nomadic Mongolians for exchanging information over long distances. Robocon Vietnam is an annual robot contest which has been held by Vietnam Television (VTV) since 2002. As a new feature of this years contest, the organizers have created live-streaming sessions on social media to provide technical assistance for participating students. The ABU Asia-Pacific Robot Contest was founded in 2002 by the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union. In the competition, robots compete to complete a task within a set period of time. The contest aims to create friendship among young people with similar interests who will lead their countries in the 21st century as well as to help advance engineering and broadcasting technologies in the region. The Vice President made the visits to extend congratulations on behalf of the Party and State to the VBS, Buddhist dignitaries and followers on the occasion of the Buddhas birthday anniversary and the United Nations Day of Vesak 2019 to be held in Vietnam this month. Talking to Vice President of the VBS Executive Council Most Venerable Thich Thien Tam at Pho Minh Temple in Go Vap district, Vice President Thinh emphasised that the Party and State have always appreciated the role of Buddhism in national development. She noted that Vietnamese Buddhism has made big strides forward in international integration, with offices in 33 countries and territories along with more than 400 Vietnamese Buddhist temples worldwide. The Vice President said Vietnams hosting of the UN Day of Vesak for the third time this year demonstrates the enhanced position of Vietnamese Buddhism in the international arena. Most Venerable Thich Thien Tam expressed gratitude to the Party and State for the attention they pay to the VBS in general and Theravada Buddhism in particular. He also thanked the Party and State for creating favourable conditions for the VBS to successfully organise Vesak celebrations, thus helping enhance the position and prestige of Vietnamese Buddhism in the world. Kingwood schools still hosting students after rain storm There are students at Kingwood schools tonight at 8 p.m. Dr. Elizabth Fagen, superintendent, confirmed that Kingwood Park High School, Kingwood Middle School, Woodland Hills Elementary and Elm Grove Elementary schools all had students in the buildings tonight awaiting parents to pick them up. The Kingwood and surrounding area experienced a strong rain storm mid afternoon that resulted in flooded streets and stranded vehicles. "The Kingwood Park High School feeder schools were overwhelmed by the torrential rains that hit the community this afternoon. As of approximately 9 p.m. tonight, there are 35 students at K Park, 33 at Kingwood Middle and 30 also at Elm Grove. Administrators and staff are present on all campuses and Fagen said all have been fed. "We sent instructions to all the principals on how to access and prepare food and how to check for food allergies," she said. At one point this evening, more than 1.200 were at K Park and several dozen at Woodland Hills but many have been picked up. Fagen said school will be open tomorrow but any family that feels their students have been too impacted by this afternoon's event can arrive late or miss altogether. "We kept cafeteria staff and nurses at these schools in anticipation of the rain," she said. The bus situation proved a huge challenge for Humble ISD as buses, while able to traverse three feet of water, found themselves stuck behind cars who flooded out. "We have one bus stuck now on North Park Drive and would love to have a friendly tow, if any are out there," she said. The bus situation at Kingwood High School was much smoother, Fagen said, but water on North Park and Woodland Hills proved impassable. Fagen also said that Kingwood Park is currently exploring the concern over planned testing tomorrrow. "We are looking at delaying the AP and EOC (End of Course) testing at K Park tomorrow," she said. School will be open for all 43,000 of Humble ISD students tomorrow. Fagen said she is enormously proud of the Humble ISD staff. Many posted messages on Facebook and on Twitter throughout the evening, assuring worried parents that their children were safe and entertained. "I saw posts from schools like Foster Elementary.. teachers were saying how blessed they are to teach for a district like Humble where everyone is family. They were taking good care of kids while their own kids were being taken care of at other schools." Concerned families can expect an emailed letter with detailed information on today's events and plans for tomorrow from the district later tonight. Evan Rachel Wood's latest role is incurring substantial criticism from Asian Americans who have something to say about Hollywood's continued centering of white people in narratives about people of color. Last week, Variety reported that alongside Jim Sturgess and Japanese actress Shinobu Terajima, Wood had been tapped to play writer Eleanor Coerr in Richard Raymond's forthcoming film, One Thousand Paper Cranes. Coerr was a Canadian writer who published a children's book in 1977 based on the true story of Hiroshima bombing survivor, Sadako Sasaki a young girl who developed leukemia after the U.S. dropped the atomic bomb during World War II and subsequently folded 1,000 paper cranes in order to be granted one wish. Related | Emma Stone Interrupted Sandra Oh to Apologize For Whitewashing in Aloha Needless to say, many Asian Americans online were less than pleased about having Coerr's perspective become a major plot point in the film, especially as one Twitter user pointed out that "there are thousands of compelling stories from Hiroshima survivors that I'd rather hear" which aren't "filtered through a white/American lens." As the granddaughter to two women who were within the 2km radius of ground-zero. As the only child of parents born and raised in Hiroshima. I am fucking livid. Sadako, her story, and what paper cranes mean and represent to me is beyond sacred. https://t.co/lLSVDyktQv aya tasaki (@asiannomad) May 6, 2019 This is SO icky. There are thousands of compelling stories from Hiroshima survivors that Id rather hear. Id be so interested in this movie if it were told through the eyes of Sasaki herself. Not filtered through a white/American lens. https://t.co/9io8gQiCtT Amy (@cocoaahooves) May 3, 2019 History: Over 140,000 Japanese were killed when an atomic bomb hit Hiroshima during World War II. Hollywood: Lets make a movie that centers the white woman who interviewed a Hiroshima bombing survivor. https://t.co/6ZudHl6pOR anthony c. ocampo, ph.d. (@anthonyocampo) May 4, 2019 Coerr, an aspiring journalist and young mother, learns of [Sadako] and becomes determined to share her story with the world. How the FUCK ARE WE GETTING WHITEWASHED OUT OF THIS VERY PAINFUL NARRATIVE oh wait hollywood https://t.co/RYbCtivYI0 Naomi Ko (@konaomie) May 4, 2019 Every good story needs a white person to tell it. https://t.co/reJtI7R03l Angry Asian Man (@angryasianman) May 3, 2019 "Evan Rachel Wood has been tapped to star alongside **Jim Sturgess** and Shinobu Terajima" The same Jim Sturgess who played "Ben Campbell" in 21based on real-life Asian American Jeff Maand who sported grotesque yellowface in Cloud Atlas? This project is so on-brand for him https://t.co/BG1pTe7U0i Jeff Yang (@originalspin) May 3, 2019 Exactly. Instead of making Sadako's story into a movie--which is THE story--somebody decided it would be more interesting (to white people) if the movie was about the white woman who wrote the book?! Sharyn (@ChickenKatsuFTW) May 3, 2019 I remember reading Sadako as a kid. I dont see why Evan Rachel Wood is the main character. Why not have the white author be a supporting cast member? If the movie is about Hiroshima why is the focus on this white writer and not Sadako? https://t.co/DI5bg1e5AM JONAS BROTHERS SAVED MY LIFE (@formoftherapy) May 7, 2019 In a statement sent to HuffPost, Raymond defended the film by saying that it is based on Takayuki Ishii's book, One Thousand Paper Cranes: The Story of Sadako and the Children's Peace Statue, alongside reassurances that the film will come from Sadako's "point of view, filmed in Japanese, with a Japanese cast." "The film separately tells the story of Eleanor Coerr, who wrote the fictional children's book Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes (which this film is not based on) and brought the story to international fame, further cementing Sadako's legacy of peace and hope through the powerful symbol she created," he told the publication. According to Raymond, Sadako's family, the Hiroshima Peace Museum, and the Hiroshima Film Commission are all on board with the project, which is going "to great lengths to protect the authenticity of Sadako's story and everything she represents." Tragically, only four KarJenners have ever been invited to fashion's night of nights: Kris, Kim, Kendall, and Kylie. The world has thus far been robbed of a Kourtney Kardashian Met Gala Balmain moment (but there's always next year). But which sister (or momager) does it best? Since 2013 we've been treated to a wide variety of red carpet looks from Calabasas, varying in quality and adherence to those tricky, tricky Costume Institute themes. A definitive ranking of every glittering gown, below. #21 Kendall (2014) She's obviously stunning, but Kendall's Topshop gown looks a lot like this off-brand Barbie dress I had as a child. Like, it was a cheap knock-off, not produced by Mattel, and it never fit the dolls' proportions quite right. You get what I'm saying. To be fair, it was her first time on the red carpet. #20 Kim (2014) After being compared to a couch at her first Met Gala, in 2013, Kim played it safe with this Lanvin gown the next year. She looks disgustingly beautiful, but there isn't much drama. #19 Kendall, 2016 If I had these abs then I'd be into cut-outs, too, but this tiny scrap of Versace definitely has a distinct synchronized swimming team costume energy that doesn't quite work. #18 Kris Jenner (2017) It's Balmain, it's very shiny, and that's about it. #17 Kendall, 2017 Here's Kendall wearing actual lingerie by La Perla. Only Rihanna can get away with this move, unfortunately. #16 Kris Jenner (2015) A red Balmain gown to go with that year's Chinese theme, plus a regal wave. #15 Kendall, 2015 Kendall had this green Calvin Klein moment in 2015, and again a sponsorship deal gets in the way of her having any fun. She was the face of #MyCalvins at the time, which meant she couldn't do much to address that year's "China: Through the Looking Glass" theme. #14 Kim (2017) This chill Vivienne Westwood dress in no way adhered to 2017's Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garcons theme, and is maybe a tad too casual for the Met Gala. #13 Kim (2015) A Roberto Cavalli naked dress. Beyonce and J.Lo both rocked the exact same trend that year, so Kim was in good company. #12 Kylie (2016) Kylie's pre-billionaire bobbed hair phase! Sometimes I miss it. This was her first Met Gala, and she went with this very passable Balmain look. #11 Kim (2016) Pretty much everyone did some variation on this metallic look in 2016, when the Met Gala theme was "Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology." This is Balmain, and it's decent, especially when paired with Kanye's low-key rhinestone cowboy look. #10 Kris (2018) Hands on hips like the boss she is! Kris is wearing Tommy Hilfiger here, and studiously sticking to the Heavenly Bodies theme. #9 Kendall, 2018 This white Off-White suit looked amazing on video and presumably in person, but unfortunately didn't photograph well. It was a huge step up from Kendall's sponcon looks of previous Galas. #8 Kim (2019) This clever beaded latex Thierry Mugler dress visually matched Kim's dripping wet hair. It was very her, but was it Camp? The ghost of Susan Sontag says no. #7 Kylie (2018) Were Kylie and Travis on theme last year? Absolutely not. But they were in love, and very cute. Also, the tiny sunglasses were inspired. #6 Kim (2018) Remember Kim's 2018 Cher phase? This is very that. Out of context this looks fantastic, although last year's red carpet had so many ultra-dramatic looks (Rihanna as the Pope, Katy Perry as an actual arch angel) that it got a bit lost in the mix. #5 Kendall, 2019 A victory. In matching Versace with Kylie, Kendall was on-theme and looking like a rare rain forest bird. #4 Kris Jenner (2019) EXCUSE ME? This is the best she's ever looked. The jumpsuit is Tommy Hilfiger, and Jenner told Vogue she was channeling David Bowie. #3 Kylie (2019) I mean... how? It honestly hurts to look. In Versace, Kylie adhered to this year's Camp theme while staying true to her pastel-hued, ultra-contoured self. Bonus points for matching with Kendall and creating many fun Jenner sister photo ops. #2 Kylie (2017) It's not your grandmother's Versace. This is about the moment everyone realized how powerful Kylie was. We've pretty much been living in fear ever since. #1 Kim (2013) This was Kim's first Met Gala, and yesterday she recalled how nervous the event made her. This dress quickly became a meme back in 2013, drawing comparisons to living room furniture. In retrospect, though, this is the crucial Kardashian outfit that re-introduced Kim to the world. She married Kanye, swapped the club clothes for Givenchy couture, and never looked back. It's one of her all-time greatest looks. A Bonus: A baby Kylie leaving a 2014 Met Gala after party. Let's be honest, we watch red carpets for the dresses, hair and make-up whoever's wearing it. But it's 2019. Dresses, hair and make-up are for everyone, and it's no longer acceptable for men to show up in a white designer tux, snazzy bowtie and call it today. Masculinity (nor heterosexuality) is an excuse to ignore The Theme! Despite gala being a celebration of "camp," some guys really had the nerve to show up in tasteful, tailored suits. Looking at you Shawn Mendes. Did Taron Egerton learn nothing from playing Elton John in Rocketman? Related | Billy Porter and Stylist Sam Ratelle on THAT Met Gala Entrance While some men rested on their good looks, others got out of bed and actually got dressed for the Met Gala. Here are a few of our favorites. The Jonas Brothers The Jonas guys did well for themselves. Even though Nick and Joe obviously should have showed up in Vans and Target denim for a "Camp" Rock look (they apparently didn't catch this meme till after), there was a lot to love. Joe served a wonderfully gauche '80s jazz-club Louis Vuitton by Nicolas Ghesquiere turtleneck (brow game on point, as ever), matched to his wife Sophie Turner's art deco jumpsuit. Congratulations to them on their one-week anniversary, by the way! Meanwhile, Nick served cheeky Wes Anderson-Louis XIV (to match Priyanka's queen of hearts) in glittery silver Christian Louboutin heels and a Dior double-breasted suit with a butler sash. Bonus points for the diamond ear-cuff, rings and 38.30-carat diamond watch: proof you can look goofy and dashing at the same time. Billy Porter Billy Porter is Camp sitting at home in his underwear watching Netflix and eating Cheerios, but he still brought beaded drama and (wingspan) inches. He dismounted from a throne carried by six shirtless Broadway actors, to reveal beaded golden snitch wings, an embroidered catsuit and 24-karat gold headpiece by The Blonds. Queen Porter's look was obviously inspired by Egyptian iconography, specifically the Sun God, but it also pays homage to a Diana Ross' deep cut. He pulled an extra layer of Camp from one of Ross's looks in 1975 film Mahogany, where she plays a "struggling Chicago fashion design student." No surprises here, especially after his earthquaking velvet Christian Siriano Oscars gown, but Porter continues to show everyone how it's done. Ryan Murphy Pose, Glee and American Horror Story creator Ryan Murphy knows something about Camp. He paid homage to Liberace with his Christian Siriano peach sequin tux and 100-pound, pearl-dripping cape: a direct reference to one of the entertainer's costumes called "The Neptune," according to People. Just as Liberace intended, the 'fit was also laced with just a hint of "The Birth of Venus" (who wore it better, Murphy, Liberace or Cardi?). We would have loved to see a bold lip with the monochrome look, but Murphy still did his part. Keiyan Lonsdale As Miranda Priestly would say, "thank god somebody came to work today." Keiyan Lonsdale, the 27-year-old Australian The Flash and Divergent star, was one of the many first-timers to make waves last night. He made his Met debut as a butterfly prince, sporting neon pink hair, and a highlighter yellow turtleneck under a Manish Aurora gown featuring 1,500 hand-embroidered butterflies that glow in the UV light, reports Just Jared. 1,5000? 1,5000. Liam... take note! Cody Fern After obliterating us with his head-to-toe goth Maison Margiela look at the Golden Globes, Australian actor Cody Fern was generous enough to slam our fingers in a door with more Margiela menswear greatness (styled by Nicola Formichetti). He was transformed into a devastating Fabio-esque cowboy in a camel suit designed by John Galliano camel suit, featuring a black tule overlay, gloves and blue sheer turtleneck piece. The look might have erred on tasteful, but Fern ensured Camp with turquoise cowboy boots and dramatic gelled ringlets. Harry Styles I'll be honest, Harry's look was a challenge for me. We'd been speculating about what the youngest Gala co-host in history would wear for weeks, and hoped he'd give just a little bit more, upfront. But as I realized upon further inspection, Harry's look was a quiet, New Romantic Gucci masterpiece that kept on giving the more you looked at it. It just took a little time to take in the absurdity of the onesie-shape his sartorial trousers, the humor of the boyband tattoos under his sheer frilled blouse, the whimsy of his flopping pirate sleeves. Next to Alessandro Michele's pink fantasia, it was a little hard to digest, but please, take the time now to savor it. Photos via Getty Last week saw the whiplash-inducing cancellation and subsequent un-cancellation of the festival meant celebrate the 50th anniversary of Woodstock. The saga began when financial backer Dentsu Aegis Network released a statement to Billboard on April 29th announcing that they were cancelling Woodstock 50 due to concerns that the festival couldn't "be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name." The news wasn't surprising given recent murmurings about production delays and tickets failing to go on sale as scheduled, but in an unforeseen twist festival co-founder Michael Lang fired back within hours to announce that Woodstock 50 was still on. With the fate of the festival now seemingly up in the air, Lang has insisted that Dentsu had no right to cancel Woodstock 50 and that he is now working on securing replacement funding. In the tale's latest twist, Lang's legal counsel has released a five-page letter sent to Dentsu detailing allegations of theft, bribery, and all-around "treacherous" behavior by the Japanese advertising megalith. "The consequences of these unjustified actions are far-reaching and mindbogglingly significant," Lang lays out in his letter. "Your company's actions will impact all those who have been directly involved with the festival, including my colleagues. It will impact all of those who are indirectly involved with the festival, including the public who has been clamoring to be a part of this historic event. It will impact the local community that would have received a much-needed economic boom. Finally, and in many ways most significantly, it would effectively mean that Dentsu would be known as a company that had acted to attempt to destroy an American cultural icon." In the letter, Lang lays full blame on Dentsu, claiming that they failed to sell enough sponsorships to adequately fund the festival, and that once it became clear that they weren't going to make as much money as they originally expected they tried to pull out. Lang alleges that Dentsu's American arm, Amplifi, illegally took $17 million from the festival and encouraged performers, vendors, and insurance companies to pull out of the festival by promising compensation and, in some cases, the possibility of performing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (an event that Dentsu is a major organizer for). Dentsu fired back in a statement to Vulture, claiming that they were fully within their contractual right to take the measures they did and cancel the festival. They addressed the matter of allegedly stolen $17 million by saying, "We simply recovered the funds in the festival bank account, funds which we originally put in as financial partner." And went on to explain that "tickets cannot go on sale for an event prior to obtaining a mass-gathering permit, which has still not been granted. Beyond that, we stand by the original statement made last week." For anyone hoping that this would clear up some of the confusion over Woodstock 50, keep hoping. The allegations being lobbed are explosive to say the least and paint a picture of a festival held together by deceit and empty promises. Lang has doubled down on his claim that the festival is still scheduled to go on, saying in the letter that there has been a "groundswell of support" in the wake of recent press. As of press time, no angel investors have stepped forward to fill the financial void left by Dentsu, and tickets for Woodstock 50 have yet to go on sale 100 days out from the scheduled festival date. Ghana needs to build generational businesses to promote Ghana Beyond Aid, Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Awal, the Minister of Business Development, has said. Speaking at the 9th Ghana Entrepreneur and Corporate Executive Awards 2019 in Accra, Dr Awal said the rate at which most businesses failed in the country was inexcusable, adding that, research had shown that 85 per cent of businesses did not survive beyond their founders. The Awards night was on the theme: Promoting the UN's Sustainable Development Goals 17 through Private and Public Partnership." Dr Awal urged business owners, who have operated their businesses beyond 30 years, to share their ideas, disciplines and tenacity that helped them to achieve such successes. He said in Ghana: "we cannot boast of 20 businesses that have survived beyond their owners." Dr Awal said as Africa geared up for the continental free trade agreement, the only way businesses from Ghana could compete with their peers was to have business models that worked. He called on experienced entrepreneurs to continue to help the young ones with ideas and business models to improve on their businesses. "I challenge you not to keep all the secrets that kept you going in your various businesses," he added. Mr Robert Ahomka-Lindsay, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, said by the end of the year, about 180 companies would be at various stages of completion under the one District one Factory policy. He commended the Awardees and assured them of government continues support in their operations. Nana Dr. Michael Agyeman Addo, the Chairman of the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Ghana said there was the need for entrepreneurs to wake up to the 21st century challenges, urging them to think about corporate entrepreneurship. He said by so doing, they would be cutting down cost through innovation and survived by building capacities that would enable their organisations to accelerate new business growth. "I challenge you all to be innovative in your various businesses, otherwise, you will fizzle out from this global competition," he added. The awardees for the entrepreneur awards included Dr Daniel Mckorley, the Executive Director of MacDan Group of Companies, Dr Felix Anyah, Founder and Chairman of Holy Trinity Medical Centre, Mr Obed Asante, CEO of Ghana Nuts Company Limited and Mr Eric Sedoy Kutorse, Group Executive Chairman of First Sky Group. The rest were Mr Anthony Tuosegma Poorer, Managing Director of Agriaccess Ghana Limited, Mrs Patience Tsegah, Managing Unicom Chemist Limited and Alhaji Abdul Salamu Amadu, the Chairman of the Afro-Arab Group of Companies. For the Corporate Executive Awards, the awardees included Dr Ernest Addison, Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Mr Kwamena Bartels, the Board Chairman of the Ghana Oil Company Limited, Dr John Ofori-Tenkorang, the Director-General of SSNIT, Mr Kwasi Agyeman Busia, the CEO of DVLA and Mr Daniel Yao Domelevo, the Auditor General of the Ghana Audit Service. The rest were Mr Odun Odunfa, the Managing Director of First Atlantic Bank, Senyo Hosi, the CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors, Mr Michael Okyere Baafi, the CEO of Ghana Free Zones Authority, Dr Fadda Dickson, the Managing Director of Despite Media and Mr Alhassan Tampuli, the CEO of National Petroleum Authority. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video An Accra Circuit Court has granted a GHS10,000.00 bail with three sureties each to a couple who allegedly extorted money from a woman after they had trafficked and kidnapped her husband and his friend. The Court also ordered them to deposit their passport size photographs with the registry. Kwadwo Asante alias 50 Cent, mason, pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to extort money, extortion, human trafficking and kidnapping. Elizabeth Pokuaa, a sanitation guard, also pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to extort money and extortion. They will make their next appearance on May 31. Police Chief Inspector Agatha Asantewaa told the Court presided over by Mrs Rita Abrokwa Doko that Madam Amponsah is the complainant in the case and a resident of Dormaa Ahenkro in the Brong Ahafo Region. Asante is domicile in Libya whilst the wife lives in Wenchi in the Brong Ahafo Region. The Prosecution said on August 3, 2018, the complainant reported to the Human Trafficking Unit of the Ghana Police Service that in November 2017, Ahmed Kofi Addo her husband and Emmanuel Oppong, were being sent to Italy by Asante and they had to pass through Libya but were kidnapped by him when they got there. As a result, Asante made the complainant pay GHS20,000.00 through an account of one Mary Boahemaa, currently on the run before they were freed, she said. The Court heard that an additional GHS2,620.00 was also paid through an MTN account of one Kwaku Akyea, also on the run, saying that GHS5,400.00 and GHS4,950.00 were later paid separately to the accounts by the complainant on October 30, 2018. Chief Inspector Asantewaa said following this, a letter was forwarded by the Unit to the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Police to assist in investigations. Prosecution said Asante was arrested and he refunded GHS12,620.00 and same had been kept as exhibit but was granted police enquiry bail. On December 21, 2018, Asante was invited to assist police in investigations and after investigations, he was arraigned. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Minister of Education Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh has called for more effort by stakeholders in the education sector until the nation achieves it's full goal of making the education system in the country gender responsive and socially inclusive to ensure quality education for all. The Minister made the statement in Accra when he opened a two-day National Teacher Education Gender and Inclusion Summit on the theme: "Towards a gender responsive and socially inclusive education system - strategizing together and ensuring relevance for teacher education". It was organized by the National Council for Tertiary Education ( NCTE ) with support from the Transforming Teacher Education and Learning ( T-TEL) of the UK government. Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh noted that progress has been made over the last few years in ensuring gender responsiveness and social inclusion in teacher education as a result of the combined effort of government , development partners , Colleges of Education (CoEs) and civil society . The Minister said there has been an increase in tutors using gender - sensitive instructional methods in CoEs from an overall average of 2.2% in 2015 to 68% in 2018. According to the Minister , there has also been an increase in student teachers demonstrating gender - sensitive strategies from 0.5% in 2015 to 19.1% in 2020. "The government of Ghana under the able leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo- Addo continues to be committed to ensuring that education is enhanced and ensures equality for all," the Minister stated. He said the commitment of government to the equality agenda is demonstrated in the Education Strategic Plan 2018- 2030 . Mr Philip Smith Country Head of the Department for International Development ( DFID) of the UK government said the Ghana Beyond Aid goal cannot be achieved without gender equality and social inclusion where majority of the people are able to realise their potentials . Speaking on behalf of the Principals of Colleges of Education ( PRINCOF ) Dr Phyllis Agyeman Nyarko described the summit as very significant adding that it will make the participants gain more knowledge towards making teaching practice and student trainees more gender sensitive as they prepare to work in the classroom . Mr Robin Todd Team Lead of Transforming Teacher Education and Learning ( T-TEL ) noted that significant changes are occuring in the behaviour and approaches of beginning teachers since the introduction of the new curricular for the Colleges of Education ( CoEs). According to Mr Todd a baseline in 2015 revealed that only over 1% of teachers were displaying approaches and behaviour expected of teachers as set out in the National Teachers Standards. However a survey carried out last year showed an increase from the 1% to over 30% according to Mr Todd. "A validation team sent to the 36 CoEs last month to assess progress on gender responsiveness revealed that 97% of the objectives and targets were achieved," said Mr Todd. Ms Anne - Claire Dufay Country Representative of UNICEF expressed the delight of UNICEF for being part of the gender and inclusion summit aimed at strengthening gender responsive and inclusive education in teacher education in the country. "The best education environment are those that are fair to all students; male or female, first generation learners, people with special needs or from different social, economic or cultural backgrounds," Ms Anne - Claire Dufay said. She emphasized the need to harness diversity among students to directly impact education performance positively. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced that the disbursement plan for Senior High/Technical Schools incentive package had been revised. It said 80 percent of the total amount would be allocated to teaching, while the 20 percent goes to the non-teaching staff. These were contained in a release signed by Ms Cassandra Twum Ampofo, the Head of the Public Relations Unit of GES and copied the Ghana News Agency. It explained that the 80 percent allotted to the teaching staff should be disbursed as: 60 percent being the base rate to all teachers of SHS One to SHS Three, whereas the rest being 20 percent would be given to the teachers based on approved total instructional hours per week during the intervention programme. The release said the 20 percent out of the 80 percent should be disbursed to the teaching staff based on their ranks that is; Headmaster/Headmistress, Assistant, Heads of Department/Senior Headmaster/mistress, Housemaster/mistress, Form Master/Mistress. It stated that the 20 percent allocated to the non-teaching staff should also be disbursed as follows; half of it shall serve as the base rate and the other be released on the approved staff schedule, adding that priority would be given to kitchen staff. The release said all were geared towards motivating them, adding that the teacher motivation of GH20.00 per student already paid to the schools by the Free Senior High, Secretariat would continue unabated. However, it said that those payments were subject to 10 percent tax, which was to be taken by the paying officer and remitted to the Ghana Revenue Authority. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Workers in Ghana have joined their counterparts around the world to commemorate International Workers Day, also referred to as May Day. The day is used to celebrate workers for their contribution to national development as well as remember those who have committed to the development of the trade union movement and protection of workers rights globally. In Ghana, the day was marked under the auspices of the Trade Union Congress with the theme: Sustainable pensions for all; the role of social partners. Parades were held in all regional capitals with the national ceremony at the Independence Square in Accra. Common features of such parades are handshakes, wiping of sweats, holding of organisational flags and placards as well as use of available toilets - usually the mobile ones. One facility that most of these portable toilets lack, is handwashing basins. Taking a cue from the sub theme; the role of social partners, the Lifebuoy team at Unilever Ghana responded to the challenge by ensuring that hands were clean, at all times, during the parade held at the Independence Square. They deployed handwashing stations at vantage points in the Independence Square to offer fellow workers and other patrons an opportunity to wash their hands after engaging in any activity that dirtied their hands. This formed part of the brands Social Mission, to create awareness and educate Ghanaians about the importance of washing hands with soap under running water - before breakfast, lunch, dinner, after using the toilet and during daily baths. It was the Lifebuoy teams contribution to ensuring a healthy workforce that would live long after retirement. Apart from being given soap to wash their hands under running water, patrons were taught the proper way of handwashing and samples of Lifebuoy soap were given out to enable them to continue the newly acquired habit. The rationale was to save them from any discomfort that may result from eating without washing their hands. Through this activation over 10,000 people got the chance to learn the proper handwashing procedure. Handwashing with soap under running water is very important. This stems from the fact that it is an economical way of preventing the spread of germs and infections from one person to another. Through this simple and heathy practice, diseases such as cholera, influenza and respiratory infections can be prevented. Undoubtedly Lifebuoy, the worlds number one selling germ protection soap, is through its social mission, promoting proper hygiene habits among Ghanaians. It is also clear that the Lifebuoy team remains committed to educating Ghanaians about proper handwashing and would utilise any opportunity to do so. This years May Day parade was attended by the President, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Leadership of the Trades Union Congress, Unionised workers across the country, the Minister of Employment and Labour Relations and other Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives and people from all walks of life. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Although the United States threatened on Sunday to hike tariffs on Chinese goods beginning on Friday, Beijing maintained a measured approach when it responded to the latest threat stemming from the ongoing Sino-US trade consultations. Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said on Tuesday that China would not sidestep differences and is sincere about continuing the trade consultations. He said at a daily news conference that the negotiations are a process of discussion, and it is normal for two sides to have differences. Mutual respect and mutual benefit is the precondition and basis to reach an agreement, he said, adding that raising additional tariffs cannot resolve any problems. At the invitation of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Vice-Premier Liu He will visit the US on Thursday and Friday for the 11th round of trade talks, the Ministry of Commerce said in a statement on Tuesday afternoon. Liu is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chief of the Chinese side of the China-US comprehensive economic dialogue. Chen Wenling, chief economist of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, said cooperation is the best choice for China and the US. If the two countries cooperate with each other, the world can prosper; otherwise, the global economy will slow down, Chen said at a conference in Beijing. She noted that China and the US combined account for 40 percent of the world's total GDP, nearly 40 percent of total global manufacturing output, and around 25 percent of the world's total trade volume. Foreign direct investment in China from non-financial sectors reached $35.8 billion in the first three months of this year, up 3.7 percent year-on-year, while FDI from the US to China increased 71.3 percent from same period a year earlier, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Trade between China and the US amounted to 815.86 billion yuan ($121.7 billion) in the first quarter of this year. A strange disease has infested the children of a couple in Area Four, a suburb of Sunyani, and left the family of five in a serious traumatic condition. Naomi Pomaa, a-38-year-old petty trader, and Sampson Yeboah, a-45-old-old taxi driver, said they were currently in a state of dilemma and disbelief as their three children two girls, and a boy were gradually becoming blind. When the Ghana News Agency (GNA) visited the family, the eye condition of Sandra Aniwaa, 19, Gloria Pomaa Yeboa, 13, and Lansford Acheampong Yeboah, a-four-year -old boy had worsened. The children, who were growing in obesity, with their skin becoming deep black, could not see well and their whitish eyeballs were having voluntary movements. They, however, had lean legs and broad chest as they grow. According to their parents, all the children were born in a hospital without defects, but their conditions developed as they grow. Mrs Naomi told the GNA that they have sent the children to the Regional Hospital in Sunyani, but they were referred to the Kumasi Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) where Doctors after examination of the children said they had no medical problem. A copy of a medical form issued at the KATH, and signed by one Cobbinah Kyei, a retuning clinician shown to the GNA said Aniwaa was suffering from fundus-micro disease with tiny bold vessel. But, Mr Yeboah the father of the children said the family had visited KATH on several occasion and little attention was given them and their sick children at the hospital. He said the family could not sit unconcern for their children to go blind, but the problem was above them, and appealed to the government, corporate bodies, NGOs and CSOs, as well as philanthropic organizations to come to their aid and save the life of the children. Mr Yeboah also appealed for prayers from churches and religious organisations for Gods intervention to reverse any possible family, or trans-generational curse. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Dr Kwadwo Addai Darko, an Obstetric Gynecologist has observed that it remains extremely difficult for couples to have babies if they denied themselves of sexual intercourse for a long time. Preferably couples must have sex thrice a week to be able to bear children and guard against infertility, he told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview. Dr Darko, an obstetric gynecologist at the regional hospital in Sunyani said most often, couples were unable to bear children, not because they were infertile, but because they denied themselves sex for a longer period. He said the best period for women to give birth was between 18 and 25 years, and cautioned couples to avoid late child birth, possibly give birth at shorter intervals-2years. Dr Darko observed that it was also not a good attitude for couples to stay or lived at different locations if they expected to give birth. Infertility, he explained was becoming a national health problem, and advised couples who were unable to have children to seek early medication and avoid the use of herbal medicine as well. Dr Darko noted that herbal medicine has no potency to manage or treat infertility, but it rather worsened and aggravated the condition of patients saying early diagnosis advanced treatment processes. He regretted that instead of women suffering from infertility to go for early medication, they combed around prayer camps and applied herbal medicines and concoctions, which could not cure them. When they are unable to meet their hopes and aspirations, they then visit hospitals, which sometimes becomes too late for them, he added. Studies, he said showed that many cases of female infertility were as a result of a breakdown or blockage of ovules and tubes due to infections such as Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV. In such cases, Dr Darko said if patients were placed on early treatment, there was the possibility for them to be treated and be able to give birth. Source: GNA Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A NUMBER of private Chinese financial institutions have pledged to make a $400 million financial support towards the implementation of the governments flagship One District One Factory (1D1F) programme. Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kyeremanteng, made this known on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. He was delivering an update report on the implementation of the 1D1F initiative at the Information Ministrys Meet The Press Series. He disclosed that the Chinese financial institutions have identified their Ghanaian counterparts to lend cash to players on the 1D1F programme. He listed the local banks identified by the Chinese institutions as GCB, Ghana Eximbank, Ecobank, Stanbic Bank. According to him, the Chinese institutions are to lend the $400 million to the local banks for onward lending to the 1D1F players. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Suspects in the murder of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) vigilante, Abdul Wasihu, have been granted bail by a High Court in Kumasi. Dauda Ibrahim, aka Wayo, 40; Samuel Agyin, aka Rock, 32, and Abdul Ganiyu, alias Petit, 37, all members belonging to another NDC vigilante group called The Hawks, were for the umpteenth time, denied bail by the Asokwa District Magistrate where they have been arraigned for a committal process. They were joined in the dock yesterday by fugitive Suleiman Hussein, aka Akon, who was arrested recently at his home at Kenyasi-Abirem in the Kwabre East Municipality of the Ashanti Region. Counsel for the accused persons, Evans Amankwa, who failed to show up at the Magistrate Court yesterday, went to the High Court with a fresh application to get them released on bail, which eventually turned out to be positive. The Magistrate Court had remanded the four for 14 days more to reappear on May 21, 2019, as it awaits a bill of indictment from the Attorney Generals Department. Dauda Ibrahim, Samuel Agyin, Abdul Ganiyu and Suleiman Hussein Akon are four of a number of people accused of killing Abdul Wasihu, 35, a member of the Taskforce, a vigilante group of the NDC, at the Ashanti regional office of the party at Amakom in Kumasi on February 18, this year. They were earlier declared wanted by the Ashanti Regional Police Command for their involvement in the fatal shooting incident. Later, an arrest warrant was issued for 11 of the suspects after three of them turned themselves in. They include Abdul Bari Mohammed, alias Warrior; Midjima; Abu Taliban; Saani Mohammed, aka Commando; Gyafaru alias Element; Fuseini, aka Jah Rule; Demos; Fayiz and Suleiman, aka Akon. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has condemned in no uncertain terms the purported disrespectful behaviour of some members of the Industrial and Commercial Workers Union (ICU) during the 2019 May Day celebration in Accra. At a news conference in Accra yesterday, the TUC claimed during the national parade held at the Black Stars Square on May 1, 2019, some members of the ICU carried placards with inscriptions purposely designed to tarnish the image of the TUC General Secretary, Dr. Yaw Baah. They said ICU members made loud noise with the intention to dwarf the message of the TUC General Secretary during the event attended by President Akufo-Addo and Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, as well as other dignitaries. ICU members made loud noise that made it difficult for everyone present at the parade to hear any of the speeches, including the important speeches delivered by H.E the President of the Republic and the Secretary General of the TUC, said Dr. Baah. On behalf of members of Organised Labour, I would like to apologize for the disrespectful behaviour of ICU leaders and members, who were involved in that disgraceful action, he added. Dr. Baah, who read the statement by the executives of the TUC, said the union believes the action of ICU was informed by its eviction from the TUC building, which is currently under renovation. Earlier this year, the ICU protested against the forcible eviction of its officers in the TUC building for renovation purposes, stating that the building was donated by the CPP government to all workers in Ghana and was not prepared to move out. But the TUC Secretary General stressed that the building was handed over to the TUC by Dr Kwame Nkrumah to house members of the TUC and since the ICU defected from the labour organization 15 years ago following a misunderstanding, it had no stake in the building. However, the ICU has occupied part of the TUC building in the last 15 years. TUC allocated some offices in the building, including ICU at the time. Trades Union Hall has since remained the head office of TUC and national unions affiliate to the TUC, he said. Dr. Baah further explained that TUC in 2017 decided to renovate the TUC building, which has not seen any major refurbishment since 1960, adding that considering the massive work involved and the health of occupants, the contractor requested that TUC, its affiliate unions and all other occupants of the building, including ICU should temporarily relocate. He said ICU, which is not even a member of the TUC, instead of moving to its own four-storey building at Kokomlemle, instructed its lawyers to inform TUC that ICU shall not move out of the offices. This, he said, was followed by an application filed by ICU for orders of interlocutory injunction at the high court to restrain the TUC and others from interfering in the use and occupation of offices by ICU in the hall of trade unions. ICUs application was dismissed by the court this delayed the refurbishment project for five months costing TUC over 100,000 additional contract fees, he added. Dr. Baah said the TUC wrote to the leadership of ICU led by its General Secretary, Reverend Solomon Kotei, to request ICU to relocate other occupants, including those of TUC, but ICU remained recalcitrant. Therefore on 25th April, 2019, the leadership of TUC requested the support of the Accra Regional Police Headquarters to provide security to the contractor to gain access to all areas in the Trade Union Hall. This was to ensure that the refurbishment is completed on schedule and avoid additional project cost due to unnecessary delay, he stated. He stressed that the action of TUC was in consultation with other leaders of TUC to restore dignity to the TUC as a mouthpiece of all workers of Ghana. We would like to assure ICU and all its leaders and members that TUCs doors will remain open to re-affiliation to TUC. We are also ready to continue the dialogue with the leadership of ICU to resolve all issues amicably in the spirit of unity and solidarity, he added. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A tissue paper manufacturing factory has been commissioned at the Nsawam Prisons under the governments One District, One Factory policy. The facility falls under the Nsawam/Adoagyiri Municipality of the Eastern Region. Dubbed, Project Efiase and under the management of Brompton Portfolio Limited, the factory would produce toilet rolls, tissue paper, paper towels and packaging products. The facility is intended to provide additional source of income to the Ghana Prisons Service and the prison in particular. Such income, DAILY GUIDE gathered, would be used to improve the conditions of inmates and empower them with employable skills as part of the reformation process. The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Robert Ahomka-Lindsey, who commissioned the project, remarked that the private sector as the engine of growth can count on government support, so it can make important contribution towards national development. The commissioning of the factory, he said, is evidence of governments commitment to empowering the private sector to flourish. He charged Ghanaians to have confidence in themselves and believe that since others have been able to industrialise, they too can do so. Thirty percent of the tax garnered from the factory, he said, would be used to support the Nsawam Prisons. The National Coordinator of the 1D1F, Gifty Konadu, who spoke at the commissioning, said the inmates would be able to earn stipends which they can use to support their families while in custody or save to look after themselves when they leave prison. She added that apart from enabling inmates and the Prisons Service to gain sustainable incomes the acquisition of technical and entrepreneurial knowledge will greatly shape the future of those, who would be engaged directly as factory hands in the production process. The high suicide rate among inmates and ex-convicts, she said, can be reduced when such persons are encouraged to engage in productive ventures and exercise their minds in one way or the other to regain self-confidence. James Yankah, Managing Director of Brompton Portfolio Limited, on his part, said, The partnership between Brompton Portfolio and Ghana Prisons Service would enhance the prison work programme to make it easy for inmates to find jobs upon their release. According to him, It has been proven over time that inmates who are given the opportunity to engage in prison work programmes while incarcerated find it easy to find work once they are released. He explained that the benefits of prison work programmes go deeper than just job training, adding that the programme would offer an opportunity for inmates to develop necessary skills such as punctuality, responsibility, deadlines and accountability. The company has acquired modern machinery and equipment with the capacity to produce over 160,000 packs of tissue papers and toilet rolls per month. The toilet rolls and tissue papers are traded under the brand name *SOFTEX*, which are also suitable for both domestic and industrial purposes. The total project cost is estimated at GH4 million with financing provided by NIB and Ghana Commercial Bank Limited through the facilitation of the One District, One Factory (1D1F) programme. The company has successfully received certification from the Ghana Standards Authority, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Ghana Free Zones Authority. One hundred and five inmates at the prison and 5,500 sale distributors would be employed under the programme. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Squatters around the Kwame Nkrumah circle overhead have been given Tuesday, May 21, 2019 as ultimatum to vacate the place as their unauthorized structures would be demolished. A team from the Ayawaso Central Municipal Assembly Rapid Task Force led by Hon. Moses Abor gave the ultimatum and said the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) would not allow any impediment on the progress in making Accra the cleanest city in Africa. Speaking to Hon. Abor after the exercise, he disclosed that the "AMA team is not against anybody or trying to take away anybody's livelihood, but their concern is about the development of Ghana and that of making Accra one of the cleanest city in Ghana. According to him, one of the visions of President Akufo Addo is to make Accra the cleanest city in Africa, reiterating that he will do anything within his power to achieve the purpose of the President, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo. The activities of the squatters have had a negative impact on the area because they engage in all sorts of illegal activities, such as selling of narcotics, prostitution and stealing. The foreigners especially Nigerians have taken over the place making the place uncomfortable for passersby which I will not sit down unconcerned and watch, he fumed. He also mentioned that a task force of the AMA had issued several warnings to the squatters to vacate from the place and so it is expected of the AMA to see them vacate the place at the given time. Source: Josephine Acheampomaa/Peacefmonline/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The arrested leader of Homeland Study Group Foundation, a secessionist group in the Volta Region, Mr Charles Kormi Kudjordjie, has been admitted to a bail bond of GHS250,000. Mr Kudjordjie was arrested on Sunday, 5 May 2019 along with seven other members of the group who were all arraigned in Accra on Wednesday, 8 May 2019. Apart from Mr Kudjordjie, the others are to be kept in police custody and will reappear in court on 22 May 2019. Meanwhile, a team of military and police personnel on Wednesday arrested about 20 more members of the secessionist group as they were about to address the media on the arrest and detention of their leader and the seven others. The group plans declaring the Volta Region an independent state on 9 May 2019. They insist the Volta Region, which they refer to as Western Togoland, is not legally part of Ghana. A few days ago, Mr George Nyarkpo, the Secretary to the group said its members will continue, until death, to press for the declaration of the Volta Region as an independent nation. He said no amount of intimidation and death threats will prevent the group from pursuing that dream. Mr Kudjordjie, who is believed to be 80 plus years old was arrested on Sunday, 5 May 2019 together with the seven others by a joint team of police, military and Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) personnel while they met. A statement issued by the police on Monday, 6 May 2019 said the men were putting final preparations to their plan to declare independence for the Volta Region. The group wants a restoration of the pre-independent Western Togoland through a total break away from the current Republic of Ghana. Although the leading figures of the foundation were ordered by a High Court in Ho to sign a bond of good behaviour and desist from their secessionist activities in July 2017, they convened another breakaway conference in the Volta Region on Sunday, which resulted in the arrest of Mr Kudjordjie, who is over 80 years old and the other front liners. The secessionist leader was flown to Accra and has been in the custody of state security ever since. Speaking in an interview with Kwabena Prah Jnr. on Ghana Yensom on Accra 100.5FM on Tuesday, 7 May 2019, Mr Nyarko said: We have taken the issue outside of the shores of Ghana. We wrote to the UN, we wrote to other bodies that have been mandated by the UN. When you go to the website now, you will hear all our stories there. So, all the international bodies are aware. We are just inviting Ghana to come to the dialogue table, we dont hold gun or anything or we are scared. Man dies only ones. We are just inviting them to come and let us talk about this issue. When we get our independence, you will still be our close neighbours. We have a lot of plans underway. Yesterday [Monday, 6 May 2019], we held a press conference and announced that this issue has gone beyond guns and bullets. That is why we are extending hands to them to come and lets talk. If they dont choose the peace approach, we will meet them by their own actions. Source: classfmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Government has reiterated its commitment to provide for the safety and protection of Journalists. It is for this reason that it provided protection for Investigative Journalist with the Multimedia group, Manasseh Azure Awuni when he complained about threats on his life over his documentary Militia at the Heart of the Nation. Minister for Information Kojo Oppong Nkrumah said in an interview with Asempa fm that government is however not aware the journalists recent visit to South Africa was due to safety reasons. Media Commentary in recent days have sought to create the impression that Mr. Awune was in exile following his documentary but Mr. Nkrumah in his response said Mr. Awune never made mention of this when he met him two weeks ago in Accra. Government through the National Security Minister provided the journalist with adequate security after he first complained about threats on his life. We may disagree on matters but we will not encourage and endorse any attack on a journalist Mr. Nkrumah said. He said the NPP government is not anti-media freedom as claimed by critics of this administration. Press freedom is key to this government and the NPP has a record to support this point in the history of our governance. The repeal of the Criminal Libel Law under the Kufuor Administration and the passage of the RTI under President Akufo-Addo are enough examples to buttress my point he said. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Elections: New report highlights innovative research on 21st century political world How and why people become engaged in politics? Are the electronic voting machines immune to vote-rigging? Can we tackle the growing phenomenon of misinformation on social media? What impact the financial crash had on the development of political conflict in Europe? Is civil society increasingly dependent on state finance and regulation? Here are some of the questions, ERC grantees investigate and solve. The new report showcases 11 EU-funded projects that help us understand better the factors and forces that are shaping Europe's democracies. Among them five projects funded by the European Research Council in Italy, Netherlands, and the UK, as well as research supported by the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, the European Innovation Council (EIC) pilot and other EU grants. There is no shortage of elections in 2019. In Europe alone, aside from the European Parliament elections, various national polls--local, regional, parliamentary or presidential--will be taking place in at least 15 EU Member States. At the same time, democratic politics has witnessed a surge of protest and so-called 'populist' politics that have redefined the political space in many countries and what it means to participate politically as a citizen. Understanding these eventful political times requires innovative research. The report has been published by Community Research and Development Information Service (CORDIS) and the ERC Executive Agency in collaboration with the Research Executive Agency and Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. Report: Elections and democratic participations - Understanding turbulent political times through innovative EU-funded research Available also in DE, ES, FR, IT, PL versions. ### More information Some 70 ERC grantees has so far carried out research projects to investigate different questions in the area of elections and voting, democracy, participation and political communication. Three examples from Finland, Belgium and Sweden, recently highlighted on the ERC website: Gender talk in the corridors of Brussels ERC grantee Johanna Kantola and her team at the University of Tampere have shadowed many members of Parliament and their teams, to study gender practices and policies inside Europe's legislative machine. Breezing through the information overload The research by grantee Prof. Stefaan Walgrave from the University of Antwerp compares how different politicians process plentiful information and then act on it in three western, post-industrialist parliamentary democracies - Israel, Belgium and Canada. Is political participation contagious? Why are some people more likely to vote or stand for election than others? Prof. Sven Oskarsson and his team at Uppsala University in Sweden are doing some deep data diving to find out how our social surroundings and our genes influence political participation. About the ERC The European Research Council, set up by the EU in 2007, is the premiere European funding organisation for excellent frontier research. Every year, it selects and funds the very best, creative researchers of any nationality and age, to run projects based in Europe. The ERC offers four core grant schemes: Starting, Consolidator, Advanced and Synergy Grants. With its additional Proof of Concept grant scheme, the ERC helps grantees to bridge the gap between grantees' pioneering research and early phases of its commercialisation. ERC media contacts Marcin Monko Press and Communication advisor T: +32 2 296 66 44 Eilish Brault Press and Communication adviser Phone: +32 (0)2 295 24 71 This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Aerial photo taken on April 24, 2019 shows the newly-built dwellings and a school in Wen'anyi Town, Yanchuan County of Yan'an City, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao) XI'AN, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Yan'an, a former revolutionary base of the Communist Party of China (CPC), is no longer labeled "poor," as its last two impoverished counties have shaken off poverty, the Shaanxi provincial government announced Tuesday. Yan'an hosted the then headquarters of the CPC and the center of the Communist revolution from 1935 to 1948. The city is now home to more than 350 sites related to the Chinese revolution. Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed the need to end poverty in old revolutionary base areas and improve local people's standard of living. Xi said a well-off society is incomplete if people in old revolutionary base areas cannot shake off poverty. The counties of Yanchuan and Yichuan, with a population of 192,000 and 120,000 respectively and both located along the western bank of the Yellow River, have limited fertile valley fields. Villagers there had been plagued by poverty for decades. American journalist Edgar Snow wrote in his 1937 book "Red Star over China" that the area was "one of the poorest parts of China" he had seen. According to the provincial poverty relief office, poverty-stricken residents in the two counties now only account for 1.06 and 0.58 percent respectively of their populations, meeting the country's requirement for an impoverished county to cast off the title. An investment of 6.25 billion yuan (920 million U.S. dollars) from the central and local governments has been poured into Yan'an over the past four years. To ensure that every household could get rid of poverty, the city has sent a total of 1,784 Party chiefs, 1,546 working teams and 37,400 cadres to live in the villages to help with poverty alleviation. A total of 693 impoverished villages in the city have shaken off poverty, with 195,000 people being lifted out of poverty. The cradle of the revolution has continued to undergo tremendous changes over the past decades. Improved environment and infrastructure, booming agricultural economy, increasingly affordable education and healthcare, and multiple career choices for rural residents have rejuvenated the city. GREENER CITY ON LOESS PLATEAU Located in the hinterland of the Loess Plateau, where 258 million tonnes of mud and sand were once washed into the Yellow River each year, Yan'an used to be vulnerable to drought and floods. The adverse natural environment and poor industrial foundation has not only affected the city but also instilled in the locals the importance of environmental protection while struggling with poverty. About 40 km south to the city center of Yan'an, Nanniwan Township is famous for a large-scale production campaign mobilized by late Chinese leader Mao Zedong in the 1940s, urging a revolutionary spirit to reclaim farmland from the uncultivated land to become self-reliant on the grain supply. Hou Xiuzhen, 73, has witnessed the great change of the town over the past half-century. As the daughter-in-law of a veteran of the brigade of Chinese Eighth Route Army which led the campaign at that time, Hou and her husband continued to do farm work in the fields cultivated by the brigade after the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. "In the 1950s, the hills were covered by farmland instead of trees. But we barely had much grain yield due to the barren soil and arid climate," Hou said. With government subsidies, Hou led her villagers to plant trees in the surrounding hills in 1999. Thanks to two decades of reforestation, Nanniwan now has a new look, with all the surrounding mountains covered with green trees in late spring. "Last year, we successfully planted over 26 hectares of lotus, which attracted plenty of tourists. I had never heard that lotus could grow on the loess plateau. So you know how the environment has changed here," Hou said. Growing grains failed to help farmers in Yan'an cast off poverty, but planting trees made it. The vegetation coverage of Yan'an has increased from 46 percent in 2000 to the current 81.3 percent. ROAD TO FORTUNE Mashuping, a cliff village on the Yellow River bank, was one of the poorest villages in Yichuan County, where most of its population are living in the mountainous areas. Until the completion of a road, Fu Changhong from a registered poor household in Mashuping had never been to the renowned Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River, only 30 km away from his village. The road Fu mentioned is a newly-built highway along the Yellow River, which opened to traffic in 2017. The north-south highway, stretching 828.5 km along the west bank of the Yellow River, has contributed to the poverty alleviation of the three once poorest counties of Yan'an, including Yichuan and Yanchuan. "In the past, we had no ways to go out of the village but a narrow meandering footpath," Fu said. "I used to look at the Yellow River and thought how nice if it were a road." About 20 years ago, local villagers started to grow Sichuan pepper trees, seeds of which are a popular seasoning found in Sichuan cuisine. But they had to sell the farm produce at very low prices to dealers who came by motorbikes. "With the highway, we can sell peppers to factories directly at much better prices," said Fu. Wang Ruixin, Party chief of Liuwantou Village which administers Mashuping, said the annual per capita income of the village was 10,300 yuan last year, much higher than the national poverty line of around 3,000 yuan. The highway also means a new possibility to the local apple growers, as they can sell apples to the overseas market via e-commerce. Feng Tianxing, 56, from Chunqu Village of Yichuan, said the county government has sent cadres to help them sell apples in online shops. Apple planting has played a significant part in improving local farmers' income. In 2018, the revenue from apples accounted for a half of the city's rural residents' per capita disposable income. Feng made over 20,000 yuan last year simply by growing apples. "Apples have been sold out when they were still green hanging on the trees," said Feng. CAREER SETS SAIL As the deadline to eradicate absolute poverty approaches, China redoubles its efforts to focus on the nation's poorest people in rural areas with precise and targeted measures. To train impoverished people and offer them appropriate jobs is one of such measures Yan'an has come up with. Though the nearest sea is more than 1,000 km away, Yan'an is proud of its sailor education. Nearly 2,000 sailors have graduated from Yan'an Vocational and Technical College over the past decade. Poorly educated, Yang Yufan saw no future, until he was enrolled in a four-month vocational training course as a sailor at the college. After graduation, he got a job on a general cargo ship in Southeast Asia. Now, his monthly salary is 1,200 U.S. dollars. He paid off the debt for his parents and built a two-story house in his hometown. "Sailors trained in the college are very popular by employers for they carry the Yan'an spirit characterized by arduous struggling," said Yang Yancun, department head of shipping engineering of the college. The city government has also cut tuition fees to encourage more people from poor households to participate in various vocational training, according to Yang. Yan'an will continue to help the remaining impoverished people shake off poverty, and strive to enter a moderately prosperous society in all respects with the rest of the country by 2020, said Xu Xinrong, Party chief of the city. President Akufo-Addo yesterday had cause to respond to claims by former President Mahama that he has been commissioning projects initiated by the previous NDC administration across the country. The former President and his party opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) claim the President has nothing to his credit. He made the disclosure when Tumu Kuoro, Richard Babini Kanton VI led the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs to the Flagstaff House yesterday. The chiefs passionately appealed to government to fix deplorable roads in their area. President Akufo-Addo said before he began his presidency, he was told by the principal competitor [Mahama] that he had done all the roads in the country in what he termed unprecedented infrastructural development in the country. The President said despite the claims by the former president, the issue of deplorable roads has been raised by several chiefs and traditional leaders in the country. He said: Its not good for us politicians to be misleading the people; if you have not done something, dont claim it, dont write it in your book; dont make pronouncements on it. The people themselves can tell the truth of what is going on. I think its important that we, the political leaders of the country, exercise some sense of responsibility when we are making some of these claims. The Tumu Kuoro and President of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs, Babini Kanton VI, raised some major issues that are of concern to the chiefs and people of the area. They also asked the President to facilitate the passage of the University for Development Studies (UDS) Bill into law as a matter of urgency to ensure that students admission for 2019/2020 academic year can be decentralized to the three autonomous campuses as announced by the President during the last congregation of the University of Tamale. The chiefs also appealed to the President to assist them to ensure the completion of the Wa Regional Hospital to help minimize referral cases from the region. They also asked for the fast-tracking of the commercial flights to and from the Upper West Region to ease the movement of travellers to the region. President Akufo-Addo took note of all the concerns and suggestions put forward by the delegation and assured them that they would be given the necessary attention by his office, as well as other relevant state institutions. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congres (NDC), Samuel Ofosu Ampofo has been invited again by the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service for questioning in connection with kidnappings and market fires. According to them, some persons picked up for interrogation and investigation in the recent fire outbreaks has mentioned his name as part of a grand scheme designed to cause fear and panic in the country. The Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service has commenced investigations into cases of kidnapping and fire outbreaks in various parts of the country. Intelligence gathered indicates that some of these kidnappings and fire outbreaks are being orchestrated by unidentified groups, persons and individuals. Some of the persons picked up for interrogation and investigation have mentioned your name as part of a grand scheme designed to cause fear and panic in the country. Mr Ampofo and the deputy communication officer of the NDC, Kwaku Boahen are facing charges of conspiracy to cause harm and assault against a public officer following a leaked tape during a meeting of party officials, though Mr. Ampofo has denied the voice on the leaked tape. As part of strategic communication plans for the NDC going into the 2020 elections, Ofosu-Ampofo allegedly gave his blessings for the communicators to verbally attack the Peace Council chairman, Professor Emmanuel Asante. Background A leaked audio purported to be the voice of the NDCs National Chairman, caused shock waves among the public after it went viral nearly a month ago. The leaked tape which is believed to be from a meeting held at the NDCs headquarters days after the infamous Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence, captures leading members of the opposition party allegedly planning strategies the NDC will use to regain power in 2020. Mr. Ofosu-Ampofo, who could be heard speaking to some party members without equivocation, noted the NDC will target lives of NPP members in 2020 since state security cannot protect them. According to him, another delicate aspect to win the 2020 election is targeting the EC Chairperson, Madam Jean Mensa. We must wage a relentless war on this EC Chair, me, she doesnt want to see my face . . . he told the party gathering. Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline.com/[email protected] Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has taken a firm stand not to allow its National Chairman, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo to respond to another invitation from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. Ofosu Ampofo has been invited again to respond to allegations of kidnapping and involvement in recent fire outbreaks in the country. The Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service has commenced investigations into cases of kidnapping and fire outbreaks in various parts of the country. Intelligence gathered indicates that some of these kidnappings and fire outbreaks are being orchestrated by unidentified groups, persons and individuals. Some of the persons picked up for interrogation and investigation have mentioned your name as part of a grand scheme designed to cause fear and panic in the country, a portion of a communique from the CID read. Responding to this in an interview on UTV Evening News, Wednesday, Sammy Gyamfi, National Communications Officer of the NDC said the party has decided not to honor the invitation. "We are law-abiding but that does not mean we can be cowered . . . what is going on is clear harassment and intimidation . . . these things normally happen in Libya. We are telling Tiwaa and Nana Addo that enough is enough. There is no way he is going to respond to their invitation. NDC will not allow Chairman Ofosu Ampofo to go to the police headquarters today nor tomorrow," he said. Below is the CID's Invitation letter Source: Rebecca Addo Tetteh/Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video On the back of the Nigeria Actors Guilds President or Board trying to sanction actress Tonto Dikeh for revealing deep dirty secrets about her ex-husband, Churchill, as loud and vulgar as she is, has rained insults on the President of Nigeria Actors Guild, Prince Ifeanyi Dike. Tonto Dikeh replying Prince Ifeanyi Dike over a possible sanction asked him to sanction those Nigerian actresses who travel to the United Arab Emirates, Dubai to eat sh*t of rich old men for money as well as those pushing hard drugs because they are really the problem in the Nigerian movie industry. I hope this fastens your sanction from your board!! Stupid fool you have not sanctioned the actresses going to dubia to open their mouths for old men to poop inside or the ones pushing drugs!! Oga shove it up your Ass nigga If only there was an EMOJI FOR WAKA #THANKS, she wrote. From what Tonto Dikeh wrote, its not only in Ghana that some actresses travel to Dubai to eat sh*t of rich old men (Porta Potty) for millions but its happening in Nigeria as well. Tonto Dikeh for the past few weeks has been in the news for tagging her ex-husband as a Yahoo boy whats popularly referred to in Ghana as Sakawa and a 40 seconds man when it comes to making love. Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Nigerian Gay rights activists Bisi Alimi is celebrating 15 years of being diagnosed with HIV and 10 years of staying on medication. In a series of post, he talks about how contracting any s3xually transmitted disease has nothing to do with a persons defined s3xuality. He wrote; Here is to mark 15 years of my #HIV diagnosis and 10 years of being on medication, and I still look so fly. Please watch this message, share this message, take a test and save a life. Thank you. I can go on and say much more, like appealing you to please donate to the work of Bisi Alimi Foundation, and letting you know; 1- HIV knows no sexuality; it doesnt care if you are; Gay, straight, male, female, Trans, tall, short, white, black, Asian; if you are exposed, there are chances you will get infected. 2- Like taking a test is the best way to know and adhering to your medication is the best way to stop the virus. He added; 3. That U actually equals U, but thats if you know, on treatment and in good health. 4- That you can live a long healthy life with HIV. 5- That holy water, anointing oil and other falsehood you have been sold wont cure HIV 6- That there is no cure yet, but it is on its way. 7- I love you 8- That thank you to my husband Anthony Davis for being the most amazing man. 9- That please donate to Bisi Alimi Foundation. Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The founder and leader of the Heavens Gate Ministry, Prophet Nicholas Osei, popularly known as Prophet Kumchacha, has said sex is the second heaven because it's sweet. The prophet disclosed this while revealing some of the reasons why men cheat in relationship. Speaking on e.TV Ghanas In Bed With Adwen, Prophet Kumchacha disclosed sex forms 90 percent of marriage and the remaining 10 percent is for chatting among others. Men cheat in a relationship because most of the women are not able to satisfy them well during sexual intercourse, he said. He, therefore, advised that Ladies should learn how to have good sex with their husbands and always make them happy in bed. VIDEO- Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form FILE - In this Nov. 20, 2010, file photo, Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman, listens to officials at a prison in Sheikhupura near Lahore, Pakistan. Pakistani media say Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row, has left Pakistan for Canada to be reunited with her daughters. Wilson Chawdhry of the British Pakistani Christian Association told The Associated Press on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, he received a telephone text message from a British diplomat stating simply that AuAasia is out.Au (AP Photo, File) BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- When China and the United States are inching ever closer to reaching a trade deal, the U.S. side suddenly announced to raise import taxes on Chinese products. The U.S. approach is indeed regrettable, and will not work. China, in good faith, believes that cooperation and consultation are the best choice for both sides. The U.S. side must address the urgency of meeting China halfway to reach a mutually-beneficial trade deal on the basis of mutual respect, as soon as possible. The U.S. side announced on Sunday that it will raise import taxes on 200 billion U.S. dollars worth of Chinese products from 10 percent to 25 percent from May 10. In fact, it is not a new trick for the U.S. side to threaten of higher tariffs. Similar situations have happened many times over the past year since the trade frictions broke out. China and the United States have conducted ten rounds of talks on trade frictions during shuttle diplomacy between Washington and Beijing. Negotiation teams have been working overtime to reach a deal that is good for both sides. At such a critical stage, the people of China, the United States and the world don't want to see the outcomes reached in previous talks return to square one. China does not want and fear the trade war, but it has no choice but to fight back when necessary. After more than a year of consultation, China has a deeper understanding of the long-term sophistication and arduousness on bilateral trade issues. China will do its utmost to maximize the common interests and reach a mutually-beneficial deal with the U.S. side, but it has also fully prepared for any situation that may occur. It will continue to defend its core national interests, safeguard the fundamental interests of its people, and never compromise on issues of principle. China has been firm in its resolve to deepen structural reform and open its door wider to the outside world. The Chinese economy has survived and thrived through major challenges over the decades and has also stood the test of the trade frictions with the United States. In the first quarter, China's GDP grew 6.4 percent year on year, one of the fastest among major economies in the world. China's economic fundamentals are sound and will remain sound over the long term. China is still in an important period of strategic opportunity for development and has ample resilience, enormous potential and great creativity to unleash. The nation has an unshakable will and the ability needed to prevail over difficulties and challenges of any kind. Entrepreneurs and the ordinary Chinese people have become more composed when facing trials and hardship. As long as we properly manage our own business, there will be no insurmountable difficulties. There is no winner in a trade war. At a time when global economic growth is weak, it is only wise for China and the United States to join hands. It will not only benefit people of the two countries, but also promote global peace and prosperity. China is open to negotiation. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will visit the United States from May 9 to 10, a positive signal that lets the world see that China is reasonable. Sino-U.S. trade relation is not a zero-sum game. When critical moment arrives, greater wisdom is required from both sides to expand common ground and narrow disagreements. Two more outbreaks of African swine fever were detected in South Africa in April, its agriculture ministry said, following a spate of the disease in the countrys North West province earlier in the month. Reuters reported that the two further outbreaks were detected in the central province of Gauteng, home to the city of Johannesburg, and Mpumalanga, a province in the north. The ministry said the same virus was responsible for all three outbreaks. The affected areas have been placed under quarantine and the provincial veterinary services are applying the necessary disease control measures, the ministry said in a statement, adding it was investigating the source of the disease and what other farms could be affected African swine fever, which is incurable in pigs but harmless to humans, has spread across China since last year, causing major losses to the worlds largest hog herd. Get Our E-Newsletter - Pig World's best stories in your in-box twice a week See e-newsletter example Will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy MBABANE In its bid to expand its African footprint, Merck Foundation is set to open its doors in Botswana. This was confirmed by the Foundations CEO, Dr Rajah Kelej, who revealed the first launch programmes will be in operation by the second quarter of the year. The campaign, which has been endorsed by the first lady, Neo Masisi, as well as the Ministry of Health and Awareness, will entail programmes around key health issues such as infertility, cancer, diabetes and lifestyle diseases. Following numerous exchanges, we will first launch the Merck More than a Mother campaign with Her Excellency as the Ambassador with the aim to empower infertile women through information, health and change of mindset, explained Kelej. For her part, Masisi expressed gratitude to the foundation for the programme. There is stigma attached to infertility in our communities. Botswana is no different, with women often made to feel inadequate if they cannot or choose not to bear children. There needs to be education around these issues whilst we explore medical interventions to support couples in these situations, said Masisi. In addition to the programmes to be launched, Kelej says as part of the campaign there will be a media call to entry for the Merck More than a Mother award. The award affords media training on health reporting and reporting on sensitive issues such as infertility, she said. The foundation will also provide training to health professionals in the fields of fertility care and oncology as well as launch a pilot project called Blue Points. The project will provide one-year diplomas to doctors to build healthcare capacity in the country. Our vision is to develop a strong platform of specialized doctors to improve access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions in Botswana, stressed Kelej. Started in 2015, Merck More than a Mother campaign currently has a presence in 35 countries in Africa and Asia. The initiative supports governments in defining policies to enhance access to regulated, safe and effective fertility care. Related CEU signs cooperation agreement with Technical University of Munich Central European University (CEU) has sign an agreement with Technical University of Munich (TUM) on the cooperation between the two universities in Budapest on Tuesday. CEU was driven out by legislation (dubbed Lex CEU) of Hungary, a member of the European Union and NATO. politics, technology and society; academic curricular activities including joint seminars, workshops, summer schools, as well as course-based programs potentially leading to joint certificates and/or degrees accredited in Germany and the USA; and exchange opportunities for students, faculty and staff members. CEU stressed on Tuesday that the far-reaching academic partnership is conditional on CEUs ability "to continue granting US academic degrees in Hungary."Led by President Prof. Herrmann, a delegation from Technical University of Munich (TUM) visited Central European University (CEU) in Budapest on 7 May. President Herrmann and CEU Rector Michael Ignatieff signed an agreement on the cooperation between the two universities.The agreement covers TUM faculty positions in three transnational dual appointments with CEU in Budapest in the field of The parties understand that the offer of the Bavarian government to support TUMs engagement in Budapest is conditional on the ability of CEU to operate freely as a U.S.-degree granting institution in Hungary. In this light both parties call on the Hungarian government to provide CEU with the legal guarantees that would make it possible to inaugurate this new chapter in Hungarian and Bavarian academic and scientific cooperation.CEU announced on 3 December 2018 that because Hungarys Lex CEU forbids the university to accept new students after 1 January, 2019, CEU had no choice but to launch all U.S.-accredited degree programs in Vienna in September 2019.Ahead of a key meeting of the European Peoples Party that was to decide whether to expel Hungarys ruling Fidesz party or suspend its membership, Hungarys Prime Minister remarked: On behalf of the Hungarian government, I can assure you that the participation of the Technical University of Munich in the Hungarian higher education in co-operation with CEU will not be impeded in any way. no longer has any rights as a party-member; no longer has the right to vote in any party meetings; no longer has the right to propose candidates for posts; cannot be present at any EPP meetings. Orban also hinted that Fidesz might leave the EPP, after remarks last week that he would openly seek co-operation with Salvinis Northern League (Lega Nord). One of the three conditions of retaining EPP membership was the guarantee of CEUs operation in Budapest, so despite the agreement signed yesterday the Hungarian government will not necessarily give CEU the required legal guarantees. No partnership between CEU and TUM is possible without definitive legal certainty about the long-term status of CEU in Hungary," CEU added then.On 21 March, following a vote in the European Peoples Party (EPP) Political Assembly, the membership of Hungarian party Fidesz was suspended with immediate effect (190 in favour, 3 against) after a joint proposal from the EPP Presidency together with Fidesz.Accordingly, Fidesz:It was Manfred Weber, head of the EPPs parliamentary group and candidate for European Commission President, that proposed two CEU faculties (democracy, government affairs) to be financed with the help of the TUM, and a third to operate in a foundation model.Orban said On Monday that he could no longer support Manfred Weber after he insulted" Hungarians.On Monday evening, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, leader of Chancellor Angela Merkels Christian Democrats, signaled that the anti-immigrant, hard-right Orban had crossed a river.With his behavior in the last few days and the meeting with (Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini), he has given a clear sign that he will leave," she told Reuters. The EPP had tried to build a bridge to Orban, she added, but he had chosen another route.In an interview on 29 March, Weber said he would not accept office as commission head if he needed the votes of Orbans Fidesz party to do so, telling German ZDF television he wanted votes from across the spectrum to advance a centrist agenda. Whereas Orban said this was an insult to Hungarian voters" and so he cannot support Weber any longer, only five days after the original interview he described Weber as an outstanding" candidate. BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Tuesday refuted U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's criticism over China's participation in Arctic affairs, stressing that China would not be absent on trans-regional and global issues concerning the Arctic. China can, and is ready to, play a constructive role on such issues, spokesman Geng Shuang told a press briefing, noting that the Arctic issues not only involve Arctic countries but also have global significance. "China will not interfere in the affairs that purely belong to the Arctic countries," said Geng. He stressed that China has always adhered to the principle of openness, cooperation and mutual benefits while taking part in Arctic affairs. "On the Arctic issue, China has always stressed the importance of scientific research, advocate environmental conservation, reasonable utilization, law-based governance and international cooperation," he said. "We are neither playing a geopolitical game nor making an exclusive small circle." China is willing to work with all sides to contribute to the peace, tranquility and sustainable development in the Arctic, according to the spokesperson. Pompeo said China appeared to have national security aims in the Arctic, which had to be watched closely, as he arrived in Finland for a meeting of the Arctic Council. The criticisms made by the U.S. official "were totally incorrect" and "had ulterior motives," said Geng. 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 Welcome Guest! You Are Here: ROVANIEMI, Finland, May 6 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. accusation regarding China's cooperation with Arctic nations is groundless and won't affect China's cooperation on Arctic issues, China's Special Representative for Arctic Affairs Gao Feng said here on Monday. On the eve of the Arctic Council ministerial meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called China a threat for the Arctic region in a speech, which is unwarranted, unwise and will not bring about anything positive, Gao said. "We will continue to work with our partners for the bilateral and multilateral interest, upgrade local well-being, and it will be the best answer to his (Pompeo's) remarks," said Gao. The Arctic Council ministerial meeting is due to take place on Tuesday in Rovaniemi, northern Finland. Speaking at an event where the protection of a fragile environment, rather than security issues, is widely seen as the underlying objective, Pompeo said Washington is "fortifying America's security and diplomatic presence" in the Arctic. Noting that "there are only Arctic states and non-Arctic states. No third category exists," Pompeo said China is not a "near-Arctic state." Furthermore, he warned nations against China's infrastructure projects and commercial investments in the region. However, Pompeo's remarks were met with skepticism from the audience. Speaking to reporters, Tuula Rintala-Gardin, director of international relations at the city of Rovaniemi, said foreign investment in the Arctic region has just started. "For example, here in Finland, we need the Finnish government to invest, but we welcome investment from other countries too," she said. Politkovskaya murder case convict denied parole RIA Novosti 15:48 08/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 8 (RAPSI) - A court in Ryazan on Wednesday refused to release the former police officer Dmitry Pavlyuchenkov, who was convicted of organizing the surveillance of journalist Anna Politkovskaya killed in 2006, on parole, a court press secretary told RAPSI. The Moscow City Court sentenced Pavlyuchenkov to 11 years in prison in a separate trial in December 2012. Ex-policeman fully admitted his guilt. He testified against other suspects in the case and reached a plea bargain with investigators. On October 7, 2006, Politkovskaya, a crusading reporter with the independent Novaya Gazeta newspaper, was shot dead at the age of 48 in the elevator of her central Moscow apartment building. The murder was linked to her coverage of human rights abuses in Chechnya. On May 20, 2014, the jury found five other defendants guilty of murdering Politkovskaya. According to the verdict, the killing was masterminded by Lom-Ali Gaitukayev and former police officer Sergey Khadzhikurbanov. Jurors found that Rustam Makhmudov was the man that actually pulled the trigger. Rustam Makhmudov and Gaitukayev were sentenced to life in prison or the murder of the journalist. Two other defendants, Dzhabrail Makhmudov and Ibragim Makhmudov, were convicted as accomplices in the crime. Dzhabrail drove Rustam to the scene of the crime, and Ibragim told him that the journalist was approaching her apartment building. Dzhabrail Makhmudov got a 14-year sentence. Ibragim Makhmudov was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Lom-Ali Gaitukayev died in a hospital for inmates in the Volgograd Region in June 2017. This article published on May 8, 2019, at 7:00 pm EST. When Leviathan Suppressors hit the market, the precision rifle community welcomed the company with open arms. Several top competitors endorsed the suppressors as being better than others, in regard to dB, and claimed the suppressors noticeably reduced recoil while also making their rifles more accurate. Hell, we even covered the company in our article about precision rifle cans, and said: Not every silencer will reduce your recoil, but we found Leviathan Suppressors particularly excelled in this role. Using both 6 Creedmoor and 260 Remington we were able to spot our own hits from 400 to 900 yards with no issue. Lets just say that we didnt want to take the Leviathan off our rifle at the end of the day. Back on March 30, 2019, a Sniper's Hide member posted in a thread about Leviathan Suppressors saying, A lot of too good to be true on this thread, and it appears Leviathan was too good to be true. Bumping for the guys who paid money, waited, and never got a thing. Since that post, many other customers of Leviathan have spoken up saying they paid for suppressors several months prior and had not received those products or updates. We've been tracking the topic since the March 30th post. There is also another Sniper's Hide thread about the same problems Leviathan customers have been having, that thread can be found HERE. Customer Number One The most in-depth, public accusations of Leviathan not fulfilling orders was from a Sniper's Hide member, who goes by the name Stag556. Stag556 gave a detailed account of the issues he had with Chris Adolphsen, the owner of Leviathan Suppressors. Stag556 laid out the timeline, which started in October 2018, where he won a 50% off Leviathan gift certificate from a Precision Rifle Series Match. The dialog that Stag556 provides reads like a customer who is being strung along by a one-man show type of company. Ultimately, the customer posted that in March of 2019, when he confronted Adolphsen with information about the forms not being filed with the ATF when Adolphsen claimed they were, Adolphsen's only response was Do you do Paypal for a refund. The customer then said, That would be great but instead, that Paypal refund bounced 5 days later and Paypal informed me the transaction was cancelled. Then he was reportedly texted by Adolphsen, who said he will refund his money by the end of April. In short, as Sniper's Hide member, Gene C. points out that Stag556 submitted for and got the Form 3 approved but never received the suppressor. Further outrage (and memes) continued as members pointed out Adolphsen seemingly had time to post on Instagram, but not enough time to sew up loose ends with stranded customers. When April 30th rolled around, Stag556 posted a text message he reportedly received from Adolphsen that said: Two options: Work with me a little longer (Im expecting to get paid this week, took awhile to get it put together) Or: I can file bankruptcy and you dont get anything. Whatcha thinking? We reached out to additional Leviathan customers to hear what their experiences with the company have been so far: Customer Number Two A customer ordered a Leviathan suppressor in October 2018 and paid the amount requested by Adolphsen, which was $1,145. The customer requested a specific serial number. At the time, the customer was reportedly told the lead time was around 7-8 weeks. The customer followed up with Adolphsen around the 7-week mark, but he says Adolphsen was slow to reply. The customer heard from others that Leviathan had a supplier issue. The response he did finally receive was that Adolphsen would update him when the suppressor ships. This customer reports that early February 2019 was the last time he spoke with Adolphsen on the phone when he called to ask for a refund, but after another call a few days later, the customer accepted Adolphsen's apology and would wait for his suppressor. In late February, the customer said he got an email that his suppressor would be shipping soon. He said he asked if Adolphsen could elaborate on the ETA, but didn't receive a reply. He then said: I did a little digging and decided to call the NFA branch and check my serial number. There was nothing listed. They had no information about it. So I called the Wichita ATF office and spoke at length with an ATF agent. He was familiar with complaints about Chris and Leviathan, and had been meeting with Chris to check his books. He had a list of serial numbers and mine was on it, but listed much differently than I had requested. The agent told me that Chris had never made a thing for me. Customer Number Two said he got a similar reply to Stag556, which was he told me I had two options: Wait a little longer, or hed file bankruptcy and Id get nothing. Customer Number Three In April of 2018, this customer picked up a 50% off gift certificate from a long range prize table, just like Stag556. At the match, Customer Number Three met and spoke with Adolphsen and said, He seemed like a great guy. On May 9th, he used his 50% off gift certificate to order a Reaper suppressor and paid $495 at that time. The customer said, When I called he said he was a one-man show and it would be about 5-6 weeks for him to build my suppressor. On June 27 I got a text from Chris saying my Form 3 was approved for him to be able to transfer my suppressor to my dealer. On August 5th, the customer messaged Adolphsen via Facebook, because he said, We had sent FB messages back and forth before so I thought this might be a good way to get ahold of him. He tried to also contact Adolphsen by phone, but didn't receive a return call. The customer said that on October 7, 2018, with the help of a friend I find out Chris blocked me on FB. I posted a message on the Hide, sent him a private message on the Hide, and replied to one of his IG posts. On IG he says to email him, then blocks me on IG. So then I email him also. On October 8th, 2018, Customer Number Three received a phone call from Adolphsen, where Adolphsen reportedly apologized. Well into December 2018, Customer Number Three hadn't received a status update on his paid-for suppressor. After Customer Number Three spoke to another member on Sniper's Hide, who had a similar situation, he said: I called and spoke to the ATF agent and told him my story. He wanted me to call Chris and if he didnt answer to leave a message. He told me Chris should contact me within 24hours of me leaving a message about the status of my suppressor or a refund. Chris called me back within a couple hours and told me that I would be getting a refund by the end of April. Here we are, May 1, and to my knowledge no one has gotten any money. As of the publish date of this article, Customer Number Three hasn't heard back from Adolphsen in regard to a refund. Customer Number Four Customer Number Four is owed the most money (or suppressors) from Leviathan than anyone else we've spoken with so far. This customer ordered four suppressors directly from Adolphsen in the Spring of 2018. The Form 3 was signed by Adolphsen on April 30, 2018, and approved by the ATF on May 3, 2018. The four suppressors, in the below Form 3 listed consecutive serial numbers. Information has been redacted to protect parties involved, but it's clear that the serial numbers had been assigned from Leviathan (click the link for the full pdf). March 18, 2019 email correspondence between the customer and Adolphsen were: Adolphsen said, Youll be receiving a refund for your cans and tax stamps. Customer Number Four replied, You need to call me. It goes passed that now. I dont appreciate how this has been handled at all. Adolphsen said, Im dealing with the ATF currently. So trust me I dont like how this is going either. After additional questions from the customer, Adolphsen didn't respond with what the exact remediation would be. According to Customer Number Four, that was the last time he heard from Adolphsen. The obvious problem here is that serial numbers were assigned on the Form 3, but the products were never delivered to the dealer/FFL. Wait Times for ATF Forms In our more recent experiences (within the past year and a half), Form 3s have been processed fairly quickly, while the wait time for a Form 4 may be up to several months. Meaning, there is no reason why a Form 3 couldn't be processed, the product(s) be delivered to the FFL, and then the customer waits for the Form 4 to get approved. For example, Customer Number Three provided the following screenshot to Adolphsen of ATF wait times for forms to be processed: Customer Number Five In January 2019, Customer Number Five ordered a Leviathan suppressor directly from Adolphsen. The customer paid for the suppressor with a credit card over the phone, at that time, the customer was told by Adolphsen the lead time for the suppressor was 4-8 weeks. When the customer followed up with Adolphsen on March 25, 2019, to get a status update, Adolphsen replied on March 26, 2019, and only said, Working on refunding peoplesorry for the inconvenience sir. So, as of the beginning of this year, Adolphsen was still accepting money for orders. We Reached Out to Adolphsen for Clarification Last week, we spoke to Adolphsen on the phone to address the problems his customers have brought forth. Adolphsen started Leviathan Suppressors in his garage and was essentially a one-man show. He was relying on other manufacturers to build parts of his suppressors and he would assemble the cans. Adolphsen did what many small businesses do when they don't have the capital to order products he used the money from customer orders to then place orders with his OEM suppliers. Adolphsen claimed that he paid machine shops to complete orders, but those orders were never fulfilled, which resulted in major delays. When we clarified his summary of events, we related the customers' money as being in a black hole, Adolphsen said, Yeah, it's gone- 100% gone. He further said he's been dealing with harassment and threats to him and his wife. When we asked Adolphsen what he wanted to tell customers, he said, I'm sorry this happened. It sucks because I'm the guy to blame. I'm actively working to repay people. I want to repay people because my supply chain is severely delayed. When we asked if the ATF was investigating the situation, Adolphsen simply said, No. Because his own April 30th deadline of paying customers back had passed, we asked Adolphsen to elaborate and he said, I thought I would have the money to repay at the end of April, but it didn't happen. I'm facing bankruptcy but don't want that to happen because I want to pay people back and I am working to make that happen. After speaking with Adolphsen, it appears that he wants to pay back all of the customers before moving forward with any other business plans. Over the weekend, we learned that some Leviathan customers were beginning to see refunds via PayPal. Yesterday, we reached out via text to Adolphsen to ask if there were any updates he would like to include for this article, his response was, Refunds have been going out as promised. We asked in what order refunds were being processed, and Adolphsen texted back with, No particular order. We further asked why he wasn't paying people back in which the orders were received, and Adolphsen did not reply. Adolphsen hasn't provided any more information as of the publish date of this article. We'll update this article if more information is provided. Update- May 10, 2019 at 11:00 am EST After this article was published, Clint Turner of William's Gun Works contacted us with additional information. This information was to provide insight into a machine shop Adolphsen is seeming to blame for his supply chain delays. Here's what Turner said: Li Zhanshu (R), chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, holds talks with Republic of Korea (ROK) National Assembly Speaker Moon Hee-sang at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 7, 2019. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) should strengthen alignment of the Belt and Road cooperation and jointly safeguard multilateralism and free trade system, Chinese top legislator Li Zhanshu said Tuesday while holding talks with ROK's National Assembly Speaker Moon Hee-sang in Beijing. Hailing the success of the Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF), which was held from April 25 to 27 in Beijing, Li, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), said the principles, concepts and goals for high-quality Belt and Road development as well as a series of major reform and opening-up measures that have been announced will bring more opportunities to countries around the world. "Both China and the ROK firmly support openness, inclusiveness and cooperation," Li said, calling on the two countries to strengthen alignment of the Belt and Road cooperation, jointly safeguard multilateralism and the free trade system against the background of rising unilateralism and protectionism, and work toward a more fair and justified international order. Noting that bilateral ties have resumed development after temporary difficulties, Li said China stands ready to maintain and strengthen communication with the ROK at different levels and in various fields, respect each other's core interests and major concerns, and further cement the foundation of mutual trust underpinning bilateral ties. He also pledged to further boost friendly contacts between China's NPC and ROK's National Assembly, strengthen exchanges of experience in legislation and supervision, and promote cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, culture, youth and cooperation at sub-national levels. Moon said the ROK highly appreciates China's constructive role in the process of political settlement of the Korean Peninsula issue. He also spoke highly of the success of the BRF, noting that the ROK is willing to strengthen alignment of the Belt and Road cooperation with China and expand pragmatic cooperation in various fields. The ROK's National Assembly attaches importance to friendly ties with China's NPC, Moon said, while pledging to deepen exchanges and cooperation so as to make greater contribution to the sound, stable development of bilateral relations. Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/08/2019 --Purdue Pharma L.P. will establish the National Center for Addiction Studies and Treatment at Oklahoma State University (OSU). Funding will be provided by the pharmaceutical giant as part of a settlement for the role it played in contributing to the opioid crisis. The company's agreement with Oklahoma also includes payment of $12.5 million to be divided between individual cities and counties to address issues related to opioid use within the local community while another $60 million will be provided to the state as reimbursement for legal costs and fees. Finding Alternatives to Opioid Use for Chronic Pain Sufferers Purdue Pharma has taken heat by the medical community and by government officials over the role it played in contributing to the existing opioid crisis. The Sackler family, which for two generations has owned and operated the company, is accused of recklessly pushing the highly addictive opioid medication OxyContin. As a result, the company and individual family members have found themselves at the center of numerous lawsuits by people suffering from addiction and the loved ones of those who overdosed. "People are often prescribed OxyContin and other types of powerful pain medications as a way of dealing with injuries, illnesses, and chronic health conditions," says Dr. Jason Sparks of Spine and Orthopedic Specialists in Tulsa. "Unfortunately, these medications are highly addictive and once a patient starts using them, they may find themselves unable to stop." Sparks says that while funding addiction treatment is important, a better and more permanent solution is addressing the causes of pain. "Dealing with underlying health issues through advanced orthopedic care, making healthy lifestyle changes, and seeking alternative techniques for dealing with discomfort can all help to reduce the risk of dependence on dangerous opioids." Tulsa, OK -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/08/2019 --The wreck occurred on the morning of April 25th, a few miles south of Glenpool, Oklahoma. A Driver Made an Unsafe Lane ChangeBased on a preliminary investigation of the accident. Law enforcement officials believe that the collision occurred after a woman in a small vehicle shifted lanes directly in front of the semi-truck. With little time to respond, the driver of the semi truck swerved to avoid her car. However, he was unable to do so, clipping her vehicle in the process. In doing so the trailer became detached from the commercial truck and rolled over onto the highway. The Rollover Accident Resulted in Lengthy Delays As a result, packaged meat products spilled across both lanes of the highway. Highway crews spent much of the day securing the accident scene and cleaning up the wreckage. In total, it took approximately six hours to get lanes on the highway reopened for traffic in both directions. It took several more hours to open all lanes. Three Injuries Reported, But All Victims Should Make a Full Recovery The semi truck had two occupants, both who sustained minor injuries in the rollover crash. However, neither of them required professional medical attention. The woman driving the smaller vehicle went to a local hospital for a medical evaluation. She's listed in stable condition, and is expected to make a full recovery. A spokesperson for the City of Glenpool observed that this accident could have been far worse. Semi Truck Rollover Accidents are Especially Dangerous As Tulsa, OK truck accident attorney Charles Bryan Alred explains, "Semi trucks can weigh more than 80,000 pounds. When collisions occur, it is not uncommon for large trucks to rollover. Unfortunately, rollover accidents have the potential to be catastrophic, even deadly. It is essential that trucking companies ensure that trailers are properly loaded and safely balanced. In order to minimize the risk of a rollover." The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) conducted a comprehensive analysis of large truck rollover crashes. The study found that most semi truck rollover accidents are fundamentally preventable. The three most common reasons roll-overs occur are speeding, truck driver inattention, and improperly loaded trailers. BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities closed the websites of nine illegal social organizations and banned their public accounts on social media platforms Wechat and Weibo in accordance with the law, the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) said Tuesday. The campaign was jointly carried out by the MCA and cyberspace affairs as well as telecom authorities, following reports that websites of some illicit social organizations that had been prohibited were still in operation. The MCA and the Ministry of Public Security had launched a crackdown on illegal social organizations between last April and December. A total of 5,845 had been investigated and handled and over 300 suspected ones exposed. The ministry said it will continue to beef up the crackdown and strengthen online and offline inspections, adding that those incorrigible founders of illegal organizations will be blacklisted by relevant authorities. The ministry said members of the public can check registration information of social organizations at www.chinanpo.gov.cn. The country currently has more than 800,000 registered social organizations, according to the MCA. Sadhus in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday took out a roadshow in support of former Chief Minister and Congress candidate from this Lok Sabha constituency Digvijaya Singh. Singh also took part in the roadshow which covered Peer Gate and Sankari lanes in old Bhopal. Namdeo Das Tyagi alias Computer Baba, who was leading the group, said that sadhus from across the country have come to ensure Singh's victory in the elections to be held here on May 12. On Tuesday, a group of sadhus performed 'hatha yoga' and did 'havan'. Singh is contesting against Bharatiya Janata Party's Pragya Thakur. The BJP has been winning the Bhopal parliamentary seat since 1984, while the Congress has won six out the 16 elections held here so far. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Achiote powder is extracted from the seeds of ever green shrub Bixa Orellana, commonly known as annatto. Achiote is traditionally being used as spices, food color, and medicinal purpose and as commercial dye. Achiote is originated from Mexico and being used for decoration, rituals and in paintings since 16th century. It is traditionally being used as coloring and flavoring agent in Latin America. In central and South America seeds were originally used to make red body painted and lipstick, and hence achiote is sometimes called as lipstick tree. Oil can also be extracted from achiote and used in different dishes for giving them nice color. Apart from seeds plant leaves have medicinal properties and also used in skin diseases treatment. As looking at achiotes properties and important uses achiote powder global market demand is high. Achiote PowderMarket Segmentation Achiote powder market is segmented on the basis of its applications in different industries. In condiments or spices, as a dye in textile industries, as food colorant in bakery and other food products, in cosmetics and in Pharmaceutical industries. Achiote powder is traditionally being used and sold as spice in the South American market. As containing color pigments it is being used in textile industry as natural dying agent .Uses of achiote powder in cosmetic industry is quite popular as traditionally being used in lipsticks as well as in skin infections. It has been popular as medicine recently due to its therapeutic properties like antifungal, antimalarial laxative, antibiotic and many more, and its medicinal properties have derived its market demand. Achiote powder market is further segmented on the basis of its forms. Achiote powder is available in market in different forms as water soluble extracts, mainly used in the water based food items and water based products. Another form is oil soluble extract for oil soluble products and cosmetics. And dry spray form is also available in market. Request for Table of Contents @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-1997 Archiote powder market is later segmented on the basis of region asLatin America, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Asia pacific excluding Japan and Japan. Where Peru from America and Kenya from Africa are the major exporter of achiote. Japan possess major import market for achiote powder as all synthetic coloring is banned in japan. Achiote Powder Global Market Trends Achiote powder possess significant demand in all the regions due to its therapeutic, food ingredient applications. Increasing emphasis on Ayurveda medicines, natural dyes, and natural food colorants is a major trending factor for achiote powder market. Also banning of certain synthetic pigments/colorants by major players like Japan. And research and development in plant medicines sector is another market trend setter for achiote powder market due to its therapeutic properties. Achiote Powder Market Drivers Achiote powder is in high demand due to its applications in several industries. Principle factor driving market demand are continuous rising demand for natural colorants products due to rising regulations on uses of synthetic color agents in food and other materials by various governments. Also growing health consciousness in consumers and hence rising market demand for natural products based cosmetics and pharmaceutical products becoming another market driver for achiote powder. In countries like Peru achiote powder uses and production is high as traditionally known for its medicinal properties. In Japan, Europe and North America markets achiote powder is highly sought due to high regulated uses of synthetic colorants. In Japan market the uses of synthetic colorants are banned and hence recent year's Japanese market has grown as another major exporter of achiote powder. In Europe Netherlands and UK are the major users of achiote powder as a colorant for hard cheese and uses in margarine. In North America U.S. market is the major exporter of achiote powder from Peru. Achiote PowderMarket Key Players: Achiote tree has been traditionally grown and marketed in Latin American countries, however Peru and Kenya are the major exporters of the achiote powder.Small volume producers and exporters market includes the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Colombia, Angola in Africa, and India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines in Asia. Key players operating in achiote powder market include Brownana Gh Ltd.,MG Natura Peru SAC, Mama Sita's, Marven bio chem, Amerilure, Kolorjet Chemicals Pvt.Ltd., Denton Spice Company, SENSIENT Pharmaceuticals etc. Get Sample Copy of this Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-1997 Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Surface mount technology also called as SMT is a technique of mounting electronic components on the surface of printed circuit boards. Ball Grid Array also called as BGA is one of the types of surface mount packaging. BGA are more convenient and robust type of packages compared to the conventional packaging such as quad flat packaging. The BGA are usually used widely in high-performance applications where high electrical and the thermal requirement is a top priority. BGA are available in plastic, ceramic and tape type of materials. The plastic BGA and thermally enhanced BGA are widely adopted. The BGA has enhanced ratio between PCB area and pin count due to the input and output connections. Besides, the solder balls are strong than the conventional packaging, provides reduced footprint, increased speed yield of integrated circuits. The global BGA market is expected to grow during the forecast period due growth in the system on the package. The BGA market is driven rapidly due to its low cost, denser type of packing and also higher performance. The increasing demand for diverse and smaller size packaging from electronic OEM's drives the global BGA market. Also, increasing semiconductor and IC chip industry drives the global BGA market. Request Report for Table of Contents @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-2038 The global BGA market is segmented on the basis material type and BGA type. Based on the material type of BGA, global BGA market is segmented into: Ceramic/ (CBGA),,Plastic/ (PBGA),,Tape/ (TBGA) Based on the type of BGA, global BGA market is segmented into: Molded Array Process BGA,,Thermally Enhanced BGA,,Package on Package (PoP) BGA,,Micro BGA The global BGA market is geographically divided into five key regions including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC) and the Middle East & Africa (MEA).Asia Pacific, especially China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan contributes majorly to the BGA market. The semiconductor industry in Asian countries has the strong foothold, thus it is expected that BGA market will show strong growth during the forecast period. Followed by APAC are North America, Europe, Latin America and MEA. Ball Grid Array (BGA) Packaging Market - Major Players: Some of the key players identified in the global BGA packaging market are Amkor Technology, TriQuint Semiconductor Inc., Jiangsu Changjiang Electronics Technology Co. STATS ChipPAC Ltd., ASE Group, Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc., PARPRO, etc. The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. Report Highlights : Detailed overview of parent market,Changing market dynamics in the industry,In-depth market segmentation,Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value,Recent industry trends and developments,Competitive landscape,Strategies of key players and products offered,Potential and niche segments, geographical regions exhibiting promising growth,A neutral perspective on market performance,Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint. Request to Sample of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-2038 New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- In addition to rapid expansion of bone marrow donor registry, increasing commercialization of cellular therapy and tissue engineering, increased survival rate post bone marrow transplant procedures, and easier access to treatment will be some of the most prominent factors driving the bone marrow transplantation market. According to the latest research by Persistence Market Research, the global bone marrow transplantation market is expected to exceed US$ 12 Bn by the end of 2028. The bone marrow transplantation market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% through the forecast period 2018-2028. North America Will Continue to Lead the Pack in Bone Marrow Transplantation Market Increasing per-capita healthcare and private insurance expenditure is a major factor that is expected to maintain the high demand for technologically advanced treatment procedures, such as bone marrow transplantation, over the forecast period. Increasing blood cancer cases and geriatric population are among the key factors expected to boost the demand for bone marrow transplantation in North America. The increasing prevalence of myeloma in the region is leading to an increase in the execution of bone marrow transplantation procedures through the allogeneic method. Companies engaged in stem cell therapies are expanding their product portfolio to offer sound treatment solutions for diseases caused while undergoing the allogeneic transplant method. The availability of more than 90% unrelated donors and high healthcare expenditure are among the factors driving the overall bone marrow transplantation market in North America at present. The American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplant reported an increasing prevalence of leukemia and lymphoma in patients aged 65 years and above, and this age group constituted 25-30% of the total number of bone marrow transplantation recipients in 2014. In 2015, the Senate and House of Representatives of the US reauthorized the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005, which led to an increase in the US unrelated donors' registry to 200,000 donors. Germany Will Steer Europe's Market for Bone Marrow Transplantation Rise in per capita GDP is expected to improve the healthcare expenditure in countries such as Germany and Spain. Government policymakers are forcing healthcare providers and public payers to disclose the cost charged and reimbursed to maintain price transparency. Healthcare organizations in Germany spend most of their research funding on adult stem cell research. Furthermore, Germany spends 11.3% of its GDP on healthcare, which is above the global average. This, in turn, has led to the presence of better healthcare facilities and more advanced research findings on various healthcare issues such as bone marrow transplantation. Among the 680 centers throughout the Europe, 226 (35%) centers are dedicated to autologous bone marrow transplantation in 2014, with most of the transplants intended for non-malignant disorders. These factors are expected to drive the bone marrow transplantation market in Europe. Request For Sample : https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4288 APAC Reflects Lucrative Potential for Penetration of Bone Marrow Transplantation Procedures Rise in the number of bone marrow transplantation centers and expanding donor registry are among the factors expected to reduce the gap between bone marrow transplantation providers and recipients in the Asia Pacific bone marrow transplantation market. The availability of modern healthcare amenities, along with the presence of several companies engaged in stem cell therapies in China, Australia, and Japan, is expected to be a key factor driving the overall bone marrow transplantation market in Asia Pacific. After the introduction of alleviating procedures for Peripheral Blood Stem Cell (PBSC) transplant, there has been an increase in the number of allogeneic HSCT procedures using PBSC (64% of the total HSCT) in Australia & New Zealand, which is another factor contributing to the growth of the bone marrow transplantation market in the region. A survey by the Eastern Mediterranean Blood and Marrow Transplant (EMBMT) Group suggests that non-malignant indications accounted for a 36.5% share of the total bone marrow transplantation activities carried out in the MEA region. Countries such as Dubai and Qatar are undertaking initiatives to develop national bone marrow registries to enhance bone marrow transplantation rates. Request For TOC : https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/methodology/4288 The report offers a comprehensive taxonomy of the bone marrow transplantation market based on the transplantation type, indication, end user, and region. Based on the transplantation type, the global bone marrow transplantation market is segmented into autologous bone marrow transplantation and allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Based on indication, the global bone marrow transplantation market is segmented into leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, myelodysplasia, myeloproliferative neoplasms, aplastic anemia, solid tumors, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and others. Based on end user, the bone marrow transplantation market is segmented into hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers and multispecialty clinics. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Bromine market has seen various regulations owing to the production of the bromine as this product is largely a part of various segments such as flame retardant, precision cleaning, monomers, oxidizing chemical, and bleaching chemical. During the last quarter of the year 2017, Gulf Resources Inc., one of the leading bromine market players in China announced their rectifications in the bromine business. With an order from the government of Yangkou County, Shouguang City in China, the company halted its bromine production. The company is all set to support the process of rectification and inspection of their bromine production process in regulations with the new environmental policies of the China. The regulations implicated on the bromine business to improve the safety of citizens, environmental protection, and pollution, are the major milestones in the way towards a streamlined bromine business. Gulf Resources are looking forward to complete the process and recover their drop in sales over the past months. On the other hand, the bromine market is expected to grow with Lanxess, a specialty chemicals company seen investing around 50 million dollars in the bromine market, which is a part of their greater investment strategies in U.S. sites through the year 2022. Request For Report Sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-658 The Global bromine market has made remarkable growth over the past few decades. This market has largely been driven by the increased usage of bromine in various applications such as flame retardant, photographic chemical, bleaching & oxidizing chemical, precision cleaning, monomers for specialty polymers, organic intermediates and lot more. The growing demand for flame retardants by textile and electronic industries is anticipated to offer outstanding opportunities for bromine market. Bromine belongs to halogen group and is the only liquid nonmetallic element. It is volatile element that is reddish-brown in color and is extracted from seawater, salt lakes, and brine wells. In seawater bromine appears in very small amount and it is recovered through the treatment of seawater with chlorine gas. There is no need to produce the bromine in laboratory as it is present commercially in the market. The bromine vapor may cause throat and eye irritation so maximum precautions are taken while handling it. The growing consumption of bromine in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, Pesticides and water treatment industry is poised to show an impressive growth for global bromine market during the forecast period 2015-2020. Bromine Market: Drivers & Restraints The demand for global bromine market is anticipated to show considerable growth during the forecast period 2015-2020 due to its increased demand in several applications such as biocides, flame retardants, oil & gas drilling, plasma etching, and PTA synthesis. The growth in Bromine consumption by numerous industries such as cosmetic industry, textile industry, pharmaceuticals and Agro-Fumigants is set to fuel the demand for bromine market. Though bromine is very vital element for various industries and used in large scale, it has some negative effects also. Brominated flame retardant are considered toxic in nature. Thus, rising environmental concern such as water and soil pollution due to bromine may affect the demand for global bromine market. Bromine Market: Market Segmentation The global bromine market is broadly classified into six segments by applications Flame retardants Biocides Organic Intermediates PTA synthesis Plasma etching Oil & Gas drilling Flame retardants is the biggest application among all other bromine applications and expected to show tremendous growth during the forecast period. The global bromine market is broadly classified into five segments by end user industry Pharmaceuticals Cosmetics Textile Pesticides Automotive Others The global bromine market is broadly classified into five segments by derivatives Clear brine fluids Hydrogen bromide Organobromines Among all Organobromines is the largest derivative for bromine. Bromine Market: Regional Outlook Depending on geographic regions, global endoscopy visualization systems and components market is segmented into seven key regions: North America, South America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, Asia Pacific, Japan, and Middle East & Africa. As of 2015, Asia-pacific is the largest market in global bromine industry followed by North America and Western Europe. In Asia Pacific region China is the largest market for bromine and it is the world's third largest producer of Bromine after U.S. and Israel. Growing automotive and construction industries in Asia Pacific region and their increasing consumption of bromine are the major drivers for Asia Pacific bromine market. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/toc/rep-gb-658 Bromine Market: Market Players Major players operating in Global bromine market are, Israel Chemicals Limited (Israel), Albemarle Corporation (U.S.), Tosoh Corporation (Japan), , Tata Chemicals Limited (India), Chemtura Corporation (U.S.), Jordan Bromine Company Limited (Jordan), Gulf Resources Inc. (China), and Hindustan Salts Limited (India), Tetra Technologies Inc. (U.S.), are some of the major manufacturers of bromine in the world. Researchers of China's icebreaker Xuelong, or "Snow Dragon", work on ice in the Arctic Ocean, Aug. 4, 2016. The research team of China's seventh expedition set up its first ice station and began working on Thursday. (Xinhua/Wu Yue) The Chinese Foreign Ministry slammed the accusation made by US Secretary of State on China's engagement in Arctic affairs on Tuesday, calling his remarks "completely at odds with the facts," and an expert on Chinese Arctic affairs said that no matter what the US does to make trouble, China should not and will not be absent. Criticism of China's participation in Arctic affairs by "some individuals on the US side is completely at odds with the facts and goes against the overall trend of peace and cooperation in the Arctic," said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang at a routine press conference, adding "It is a complete confusion of right and wrong." Geng's remarks came following Pompeo's remarks at a meeting of the Arctic Council, an international organization made up of eight Arctic countries and representatives of indigenous people in the area, on Monday in Finland. Pompeo said Beijing's efforts to build infrastructure in the region and partner with Russia on new sea routes could risk turning the Arctic into another area of competing territorial claims, like the South China Sea, the New York Times reported. "China's pattern of aggressive behavior elsewhere will tell us how it treats the Arctic," Pompeo said. In the white paper on China's Arctic Policy issued by the State Council Information Office in January 2018, the Chinese government announced that China is an important stakeholder in Arctic affairs. Geographically, China is a "Near-Arctic State," one of the continental states closest to the Arctic Circle. China is a country that could be impacted significantly by climate and ocean currents of the Arctic, so it is totally legitimate and reasonable for China to participate in Arctic affairs, Dong Yue, a vice dean of the School of Law at the Ocean University of China, who helped draft the white paper, told the Global Times on Tuesday. "The US is treating China as a major strategic competitor, so it will make trouble for China in many fields, but many Arctic states are pragmatic on the cooperation with China," Dong said. Geng said on Tuesday that China has always taken an open, cooperative and win-win attitude in participating in Arctic affairs. "On the Arctic issue, we are committed to scientific research, environmental protection, rational utilization, law-based governance and international cooperation. We do not form a closed and exclusive circle." Geng noted that the Arctic issue not only concerns Arctic countries, but also has global significance and international influence. "China will not step into the affairs of Arctic nations. However, China can and is willing to play a constructive role in trans-regional and global issues in the Arctic." China is willing to work with relevant parties to jointly understand, protect, utilize and participate in the governance of the Arctic and contribute to its peace, stability and sustainable development, he said. "China also should not be scared by pressure and accusations from the US, because tolerance and compromise won't lead to a fair response from Washington. China should stick to its path to cooperate with its partners and make more contributions to Arctic affairs," Dong said. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Containers are used to transport objects from one place to another. Unlike conventional shipping, container shipping uses containers of various standard sizes20 foot (6.09 m), 40 foot (12.18 m), 45 foot (13.7 m), 48 foot (14.6 m), and 53 foot (16.15 m)to load, transport, and unload goods or objects. As a result, containers can be moved by trains, ships and trucks. Most commonly and important container sizes are 20-foot and 40-foot lengths. The 20-foot container is generally referred to as a Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) and the 40-foot container is known as the Forty-foot Equivalent Unit (FEU). Containers are generally made up of aluminum and steel . The size and type built of each container comply with specifications and regulations formulated by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Request Sample Report@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/3798 Shipping containers are of various types . The most important type of container is dry cargo . Dry cargo containers are often referred to as special containers. These special containers include open side, open end, open top, half-height, flat rack, refrigerated, liquid bulk, and modular. These containers are built as a same exterior lengths and widths as the standard dry cargo containers. In addition, open top containers are used for easy loading of cargo such as odd-sized goods and machineries. Flat racks are used for vehicles, boats, machineries and industrial equipment . Open side containers are used for transporting vegetables such as onions and potatoes. Tank containers are used to transport liquids such as chemicals, wine, and vegetable oils. Each container has its own unique unit number , often known as box number. Box numbers are used by crew members, ship captains, coastguards, customs officers, dock supervisors, and warehouse managers to identify the owner of a container and who is using it to ship goods, and to track the container's location across the world. The container sizes need to be standardized so that they can be stacked most efficiently. It transport one on top of the other in trains, ships, trucks and cranes at the ports can be specially fitted or built to a single size specification. Container size standardization is carried out by the ISO whose primary work is to set standard sizes for all containers . The most important step in container shipping is proper loading of containers in trucks, ships, and trains. Several government associations such as the World Shipping Council (WSC), together with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), published the Transport of Containers by Sea - Industry Guidance for Shippers and Container Stuffers. It provides specific guidelines to shipping companies to transport containers in a safe and efficient way. In terms of geography, North America dominates the global container shipping market . This is due to improved transportation services in this region. The U.S. represents the largest market for container shipping followed by Canada in North America. In Europe, Germany, the U.K., Spain, Italy, and France hold the major share of the container shipping market. Asia is expected to witness high growth rates in the next five years, as many companies are constructing manufacturing facilities in this region. The rising number of manufacturing units would result in significant rise in demand for containers. Improving transportation services are boosting growth of the container shipping market in this region. Japan, China, and India are expected to be the fastest-growing container shipping markets in Asia. Increasing demand for transportation services is a key driver of the global container shipping market. Rising number of factories and manufacturing units has fueled growth of the global container shipping market. In addition, several government associations are also boosting growth of the global container shipping market by providing specific guidelines to shipping companies. However, high shipping freight rates obstruct growth of the global container shipping market. Request Report TOC@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/3798 Some of the major companies operating in the global container shipping market are China Shipping Container Lines, HANJIN, China Ocean Shipping Company, HAPAG-LLOYD, Mediterranean Shipping Company, and MAERSK. Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Cosmetic skin care products are intended to moisturize, soften, hydrate the skin, reduce the odor, and remove makeup, dirt, oil, & dead skin cells. Rising awareness about natural ingredients used in skin care products are fueling the growth of the market but, rising awareness for natural treatment product is likely limiting the growth of the market. Additionally, increasing geriatric population, as well as the disposable income of the emerging economies, is creating high demand for anti-aging skin care products. It has been observed that global warming is responsible for growing sun protection and UV rays protection cream. Moreover, packing and labeling of the product plays an important role to create strength in the market. Advance Market Analytics recently introduced Cosmetic Skin Care Market study with in-depth overview, describing about the Product / Industry Scope and elaborates market outlook and status to 2024. Cosmetic Skin Care Market explores effective study on varied sections of Industry like opportunities, size, growth, technology, demand and trend of high leading players. It also provides market key statistics on the status of manufacturers, a valuable source of guidance, direction for companies and individuals interested in the industry. Get Free PDF Sample Pages of Cosmetic Skin Care Market Report: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/33699-global-cosmetic-skin-care-market Major Key Players in This Report Include, L'Orea S.A. (France), Unilever (United Kingdom), Beiersdorf Inc. (Germany), The Colgate-Palmolive Company (United States), The Estee Lauder Companies, Inc. (United States), Johnson and Johnson (United States), Avon Products, Inc. (United Kingdom), Shiseido Co., Ltd. (Japan), The Procter & Gamble Company (United States) and Lumene (Finland) The report focuses on Global Cosmetic Skin Care Market major leading industry players with information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials, equipment and downstream consumers analysis is also carried out. What's more, the market development trends and marketing channels are analyzed. Market Leaders and their expansionary development strategies In March 2019, Unilever had acquired Garancia; is French derma-cosmetic brand that currently offers a range of 38 premium facial and body skincare products. The acquisition has been added many skin care products in Unilever's product portfolio that is ultimately supplementing growth of the company. The market study is being classified by Type, by Application and major geographies with country level break-up that includes South America (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America), Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Taiwan, Australia, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Europe (Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Rest of Europe), MEA (Middle East, Africa), North America (United States, Canada, Mexico). The research methodology used to estimate and forecast the Cosmetic Skin Care Market began with capturing data from the key vendors' revenue and market size of the individual segments through secondary sources, industry associations, and trade journals, such as the World Analytics Association and the Cloud Native Computing Foundation. The bottom-up procedure was employed to arrive at the overall market size of the market from the individual segments. After arriving at the overall market size, the total market was split into several segments and sub segments, which were then verified through primary research by conducting extensive interviews with the key industry personnel, such as Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Vice Presidents (VPs), directors, and executives. The data triangulation and market breakdown procedures were employed to complete the overall market engineering process and arrive at the exact statistics for all the segments and sub segments. For Early Buyers | Get Up to 20% Discount on This Premium Report: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/request-discount/33699-global-cosmetic-skin-care-market Strategic Points Covered in Table of Content of Cosmetic Skin Care Market: Chapter 1: Introduction, market driving force product Objective of Study and Research Scope the Cosmetic Skin Care market Chapter 2: Exclusive Summary the basic information of the Cosmetic Skin Care Market. Chapter 3: Displayingthe Market Dynamics- Drivers, Trends and Challenges of the Cosmetic Skin Care Chapter 4: Presenting the Cosmetic Skin Care Market Factor Analysis Porters Five Forces, Supply/Value Chain, PESTEL analysis, Market Entropy, Patent/Trademark Analysis. Chapter 5: Displaying the by Type, End User and Region 2013-2018 Chapter 6: Evaluating the leading manufacturers of the Cosmetic Skin Care market which consists of its Competitive Landscape, Peer Group Analysis, BCG Matrix & Company Profile Chapter 7: To evaluate the market by segments, by countries and by manufacturers with revenue share and sales by key countries in these various regions. Chapter 8 & 9: Displaying the Appendix, Methodology and Data Source Finally, Cosmetic Skin Care Market is a valuable source of guidance for individuals and companies. Data Sources & Methodology The primary sources involves the industry experts from the Cosmetic Skin Care Market including the management organizations, processing organizations, analytics service providers of the industry's value chain. All primary sources were interviewed to gather and authenticate qualitative & quantitative information and determine the future prospects. In the extensive primary research process undertaken for this study, the primary sources Postal Surveys, telephone, Online & Face-to-Face Survey were considered to obtain and verify both qualitative and quantitative aspects of this research study. When it comes to secondary sources Company's Annual reports, press Releases, Websites, Investor Presentation, Conference Call transcripts, Webinar, Journals, Regulators, National Customs and Industry Associations were given primary weight-age. For More Information and Customization: https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/enquiry-before-buy/33699-global-cosmetic-skin-care-market Contact Us: Craig Francis (PR & Marketing Manager) AMA Research & Media LLP Unit No. 429, Parsonage Road Edison, NJ New Jersey USA 08837 Phone: +1 (206) 317 1218 sales@advancemarketanalytics.com Connect with us at https://www.linkedin.com/company/advance-market-analytics https://www.facebook.com/AMA-Research-Media-LLP-344722399585916 https://twitter.com/amareport New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Costume jewelry (also known as fashion jewellery, trinkets, junk jewelry, fake jewelry and fallalery) is a jewelry made of less valuable materials as compared with valuable materials such as gold, diamond, platinum and other precious metals and gem. The raw material used for these jewelleries include base metals, glass, plastic, synthetic stones, semi-precious stones, beads, ivory, lac, leather, terracotta, pearl and metals such as silver, aluminum and brass. On the basis of products, the costume jewelry industry is broadly categorized as bracelets, brooch, earrings, necklaces, chokers, bangles, finger rings, toe rings, anklets and pendants. The costume Jewelry industry operates as a true global industry as the raw materials are mostly sourced from Australia, Africa, Russia and Canada, manufacturing takes place in China, India, Italy and Turkey whereas the largest markets is North America, followed by Europe. Request For Report Sample@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/2791 The developing economies such as BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) are the fasted growing market with double digit growth rates. Asia Pacific is the largest producer of costume jewelry and expected to take over North America in terms of consumption in the coming years. High growth rate in Asia Pacific region is attributed to the rising income of the consumers in these countries. Further, with the massive urbanization and westernization taking place, the consumers are now becoming more fashionable and trendy. Moreover large population of young consumers (average age is 29 year and 37 year respectively for India and China) are also a key contributor in overall growth of costume jewelry in these countries. The key drivers for the costume jewelry include increasing prices for gold and other precious gems and pearls, internationalization of brands and increasing demand of men costume jewelry. Some of the key challenges for the costume jewelry industry include rising raw material cost and fad sensitive market of fashion jewelry. The unorganized supply chain of the raw materials in costume jewelry industry also act as a major restraint for the industry as it sometimes lead to steep hike in the prices of raw materials. Online channels, which are still new trend, offer new opportunity for the market. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/toc/2791 Some of the major player in operating in the industry includes, Buckley Jewellery Limited, The Colibri Group, Avon Products Inc, Swank Inc, H. Stern Com. & Ind. S.A., Cartier SA, Channel S.A., Louis Vuitton North America, Inc., Stuller, Inc., Yurman Design, Inc., Billig Jewelers, Inc. and Gianni Versace S.p.A. Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Global (United States, European Union and China) CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) Market Research Report 2019-2025 is latest research study released by HTF MI evaluating the market, highlighting opportunities, risk side analysis, and leveraged with strategic and tactical decision-making support. The study provides information on market trends and development, drivers, capacities, technologies, and on the changing capital structure of the Global (United States, European Union and China) CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) Market. Some of the key players profiled in the study are Boston Scientific, Medtronic, St. Jude Medical, Biotronik, Cook Medical, LivaNova (Sorin) & Spectranetics. CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) Market Overview: If you are involved in the CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) industry or intend to be, then this study will provide you comprehensive outlook. It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date segmented by Hospital, Household & Other, , Extracorporeal Portable Pacemaker, Implanted Pacemaker & Semi-Buried Pacemaker and major players. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization according to your requirement. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1828612-global-united-states-european-union-and-china-crt-pacemaker-crt-p-market CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) Market: Demand Analysis & Opportunity Outlook 2023 Research study is to define market sizes of various segments & countries in previous years and to forecast the values to the next 5-8 years. The report is designed to comprise each qualitative and quantitative elements of the industry facts including: market share, market size (value and volume 2012-17, and forecast to 2023) with admire to each of the areas and countries concerned inside the examination. Furthermore, the report additionally caters the detailed statistics about the vital elements which includes drivers & restraining factors which will define the future growth of the market. Furthermore, the years considered for the study are as follows: Historical year 2013-2017 Base year 2018 Forecast period** 2018 to 2023 [** unless otherwise stated] **Moreover, it will also include the opportunities available in micro markets for stakeholders to invest, detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product services of key players. The designated segments and sub-section of the market are explained below: The Study is segmented by following Product Type: , Extracorporeal Portable Pacemaker, Implanted Pacemaker & Semi-Buried Pacemaker Major applications/end-users industry are as follows: Hospital, Household & Other Some of the key Manufacturers Involved in the Market are Boston Scientific, Medtronic, St. Jude Medical, Biotronik, Cook Medical, LivaNova (Sorin) & Spectranetics You can get free access to samples from the report here: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1828612-global-united-states-european-union-and-china-crt-pacemaker-crt-p-market For each region, market size and end users are analyzed as well as segment markets by types, applications and companies. If opting for the Global version of CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) Market analysis is provided for major regions as follows: - North America (USA, Canada and Mexico) - Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) - Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) - South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.) - Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) Buy this research report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1828612 Key Answers Captured in Study are Which geography would have better demand for product/services? What are the strategies adopted by big players in the regional market? Which country would see the steep rise in CAGR & year-on-year (Y-O-Y) growth? What is the current & expected market size in next five years? What is the market feasibility for long term investment? What opportunity the country would offer for existing and new players in the CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) market? What is risk involved for suppliers in the geography? What factors would drive the demand for the product/service in near future? What is the impact analysis of various factors in the Global (United States, European Union and China) CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) market growth? What are the recent trends in the regional market and how successful they are? Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1828612-global-united-states-european-union-and-china-crt-pacemaker-crt-p-market There are 15 Chapters to display the Global (United States, European Union and China) CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) market. Chapter 1, About Executive Summary to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of Global (United States, European Union and China) CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) market, Applications [Hospital, Household & Other], Market Segment by Regions United States, China, European Union & Rest of World (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia); Chapter 2, objective of the study. Chapter 3, to display Research methodology and techniques. Chapter 4 and 5, to show the Overall Market Analysis, segmentation analysis, characteristics; Chapter 6 and 7, to show the Market size, share and forecast; Five forces analysis (bargaining Power of buyers/suppliers), Threats to new entrants and market condition; Chapter 8 and 9, to show analysis by regional segmentation[United States, China, European Union & Rest of World (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) ], comparison, leading countries and opportunities; Regional Marketing Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis Chapter 10, focus on identifying the key industry influencer's, overview of decision framework accumulated through Industry experts and strategic decision makers; Chapter 11 and 12, Market Trend Analysis, Drivers, Challenges by consumer behaviour, Marketing Channels and demand & supply. Chapter 13 and 14, describe about the vendor landscape (classification and Market Positioning) Chapter 15, deals with Global (United States, European Union and China) CRT Pacemaker (CRT-P) Market sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia or Oceania [Australia and New Zealand]. Pune, Maharashtra -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Esterase is the common type of hydrolase enzyme that is used to divide large molecules into smaller molecules. Esterase enzyme is mainly used to split esters into acids and alcohol through a chemical reaction with water. The enzymes are used for various applications in food, pharmaceutical, textile, and other industries. Due to the widespread application of enzymes such as esterase, the demand is also increasing leading to the growing market. The advancement in biocatalysis operations and demand for versatile and attractive enzymes for various industrial applications is anticipated to boost the esterase market growth. The global esterase market is expected to grow with a high-end single-digit CAGR over the forecast period due to the growth in the production and demand for esterase enzymes in the different end-use industry across the globe. Request Free Sample Report@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=3014 Growing Demand for Industrial Enzyme Expected to boost the Esterase Market Growth The esterase is used in the process enzymatic degradation of plastic in the plastic industry. Esterase depolymerize complex polymers following the degradation process. Moreover, the esterase is used for the synthesis of esters, and in the preparation of optically active compounds which is important in the chemical and biocatalysis industry. The esterase is used for the deinking process to remove ink from the printed material in the paper industry, which is estimated to be one of the major driving factors for the esterase market. The aforementioned factors promote the demand of the esterase and anticipated to boost the growth of the global esterase market. The growth of the industrial enzyme market propelling the demand from different end-use industries such as the food industry, textile industry, and others is expected to contribute to the growth of the global esterase market. Also, the incorporation of biocatalysis process in the pharmaceutical and chemical industry promotes the healthy growth of the esterase market. Global Esterase Market growth Triggered by Growing Food & Beverage Industry Esterase market can be classified on the basis of source type as plants, animals, and microorganisms. The microbial enzymes are mostly used due to a factor of their easy manipulations leading to lower maintenance and synthesis cost. The growing demand for industrial enzymes and recent development in biocatalysis operations expected to boost the esterase market in the forecast period. Esterase market can also be segmented on the basis of end-use industries as food & beverage industry, the pharmaceutical industry, textile industry, biofuel production, and other end-use industries. The growth of the food & beverage industry and subsequent demand for esterase to manufacture different products is projected to contribute for the growth of the global esterase market. Request/View TOC@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=T&rep_id=3014 Development of Pharmaceutical Industry and Biocatalysis Processes projected to boost the Esterase Market Growth across the Regions The global esterase market can be segmented on the basis of the geography as Western Europe, North America, Asia and Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Latin America, Eastern Europe, Japan, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA). The regional segments also include emerging countries as China, South Africa, and Australia in the esterase market. Among the segmented regions, sales and demand for the esterase in North America expected to hold a significant share in the global market. The North America esterase market is growing due to the substantial growth in the chemical & pharmaceutical industry in the region. Moreover, the substantial growth of the food & beverage industry in the developing regions such as Asia and Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) and Latin America is expected to contribute for the growth of the global esterase market in the forecast period. The growing demand for industrial enzymes across the countries is estimated to promote the esterase market. Esterase Market Manufacturers and their Market Expansion Strategies Some of the manufacturers in the esterase market are Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Ltd., Sigma-Aldrich Corporation, Aumgene Biosciences, BBI Solutions, CSL Limited, and others. The prominent players are concentrating on the enhancement of their manufacture abilities and vertical integration for business development. The present strategy of manufacturers to promote sales is expected to contribute for the growth of the esterase market in the forecast period, 2018-2028. The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the esterase market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The esterase market research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application and industry. The Esterase market report covers exhaustive analysis on: Market Segments Market Dynamics Market Size Supply & Demand Current Trends/Issues/Challenges Competition & Companies involved Technology Value Chain Regional analysis includes: North America (U.S., Canada) Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru) Western Europe (Germany, Italy, France, U.K, Spain, BENELUX, Nordic, Eastern Europe) CIS and Russia Asia-Pacific (China, India, ASEAN, South Korea) Japan Middle East and Africa (GCC Countries, South Africa, Turkey, Iran, Israel) The esterase market report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The esterase market report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The esterase market report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. Esterase Market Report Highlights: Detailed overview of parent market Changing market dynamics in the industry In-depth market segmentation Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value Recent industry trends and developments Competitive landscape Strategies of key players and products offered Potential and niche segments, geographical regions exhibiting promising growth A neutral perspective on market performance Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint Report Analysis@ https://www.factmr.com/report/3014/esterase-market About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us Rohit Bhisey Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Blog: https://factmrblog.com/ Pune, Maharashtra -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Graphical Research has announced the launch of Europe Aerial Imaging Market, a comprehensive study enumerating the latest price trends and pivotal drivers rendering a positive impact on the industry landscape. Further, the report is inclusive of the competitive terrain of this vertical in addition to the market share analysis and the contribution of the prominent contenders toward the overall industry. The Europe aerial imaging market growth is attributed to a rise in the deployment of drone technology for defense and disaster management applications. For instance, in September 2016, emergency services in the region used high-tech drones and robots for rebuilding damaged towns. Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.graphicalresearch.com/request/1137/sample Robots provided by the European Commission-run project, Tradr were used to assist rescue efforts in affected towns. Other factors influencing the market growth are the several efforts taken by government agencies for augmenting drone adoption and the growing implementation of AI to enhance UAV capabilities. The drones/UAV segment is projected to register the fastest growth rate of around 11% over the forecast timeline due to the extensive adoption of these platforms for capturing aerial imagery. Multirotor drones are expected to witness an increase in adoption as they offer several benefits such as easier control and more stability as compared to single rotor drones. Make an inquiry for purchasing this report @ https://www.graphicalresearch.com/request/1137/inquiry-before-buying The oil & gas market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 10% over the forecast timeline. Oil & gas industries in the region are using drones to monitor pipelines, underground exploration, aerial inspection, and to provide visual updates about the site. Europe Aerial Imaging Market Growth, By Application o Geospatial Mapping o Disaster Management o Energy & Resource Management o Surveillance & Monitoring o Urban Planning o Conservation & Research For instance, in August 2015, Repsol S.A., an integrated global energy company based in Madrid used UAVs to inspect the flares at its Sines complex in Portugal by obtaining high-resolution images of the state of structures that measure more than 100m. Browse Complete Report Summary @ https://www.graphicalresearch.com/industry-insights/1137/europe-aerial-imaging-market The key market players in the Europe aerial imaging market include Fugro N.V., Cyberhawk Innovations, Parrot SA, Google, Global UAV Technologies, GeoVantage, Eagle View Technologies, Digital Aerial Solutions, PrecisionHawk, Landiscor Real Estate Mapping, Cooper Aerial Surveys, Kucera International, 3D Robotics, AeroVironment, DroneDeploy, and Hoverfly Technologies. About Graphical Research Graphical Research is a business research firm that provides industry insights, market forecast and strategic inputs through granular research reports and advisory services. We publish targeted research reports with an aim to address varied customer needs, from market penetration and entry strategies to portfolio management and strategic outlook. We understand that business requirements are unique: our syndicate reports are designed to ensure relevance for industry participants across the value chain. We also provide custom reports that are tailored to the exact needs of the customer, with dedicated analyst support across the purchase lifecycle. Pune, India -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- The growing Chinese economy and stricter environmental protection policies drive the growth of natural gas consumption in China. In 2018, the Chinese government introduced several environmental protection policies to further prevent and control atmospheric pollution and replace coal with natural gas in key areas, which pushed up the natural gas consumption in China. According to CRI's preliminary estimate, the consumption of natural gas in China exceeded 27 million cubic meters in 2018, registering a YOY increase of more than 10%. Get Sample Report@ http://bit.ly/2PNG6b0 CRI's market survey shows that in 2018, the consumption of natural gas for power generation, household use and industrial purposes increased significantly while the consumption of natural gas in the chemical industry decreased slightly. The consumption of natural gas grew rapidly in the central and eastern regions which have a developed economy and high population density while grew slowly in the western regions. In 2018, the consumption of natural gas in provinces such as Hebei, Jiangsu and Guangdong all saw an increase of more than 3 billion cubic meters. According to CRI's analysis, as restricted by reserves and exploitation conditions, the production volume of natural gas in China has little growth potential. In 2018, the production volume of natural gas in China was about 160.30 billion cubic meters, representing a YOY increase of 8.30%, a growth rate far lower than that of the consumption volume. But it is noteworthy that the production volume of shale gas reached 11 billion cubic meters with a YOY increase of about 20%. Because of insufficient domestic production, China needs to import a large quantity of natural gas to meet domestic demand. In recent years, China's reliance on natural gas imports is rising sharply with the rapidly growing import volume of natural gas. In 2018, China surpassed Japan to become the world's largest natural gas importer. According to CRI's preliminary estimate, in 2018, the import volume of natural gas in China was about 90.39 million tons, representing a YOY increase of 31.80% and import reliance of more than 40%. The natural gas imports in China include pipeline natural gas and LNG. As the import of LNG does not require pipeline construction and the shipping costs are low, LNG dominates China's natural gas imports. According to CRI's analysis, in 2018, the import volume of LNG in China reached 53.78 million tons, increasing by 41% YOY. The growth was mainly driven by China's increasing demand for LNG, the use of new LNG terminals and the performance of new LNG contracts. Get Instant Discount@ http://bit.ly/2Lpt98Q At the end of 2018, the annual handling capacity of LNG terminals in China reached 66.95 million tons. Phase I of the seven LNG terminals under construction had an annual handing capacity of 16.20 million tons. In addition, LNG terminals under extended construction in Tangshan, Qingdao and Rudong will see a significant increase in handling capacity after they are put into service. According to CRI's analysis, the natural gas importers in China have signed many LNG procurement contracts with global natural gas suppliers. For example, in 2018, China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) signed LNG import contracts with Cheniere, Qatargas and Exxon Mobil; China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) signed LNG import contract with Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS). In addition, CNOOC's LNG contract with British Petroleum (BP) will be honored in 2019, which means that CNOOC's new LNG contract volume will exceed 10 million tons/year. Meanwhile, China is building long-distance pipelines to facilitate the transportation and allocation of natural gas on the domestic market. At the end of 2018, the total length of China's long-distance natural gas pipelines was close to 76,000 kilometers. The Erdos-Anping-Zhangzhou Gas Pipeline (Phase I), Inner Mongolia-Shanxi Gas Pipeline (Phase I) and Chuxiong-Panzhihua Natural Gas Pipeline (a branch line of China-Myanmar Pipeline) have been put into service, and parts of the China-Russia East-Route Natural Gas Pipeline and the Qianjiang-Shaoguan Natural Gas Pipeline have been completed. Constant progress is being made in the construction of regional pipeline networks. For example, the construction of six major pipeline networks in the eastern, western and northern parts of Guangdong has been started and is planned to be completed at the end of 2020. With the construction of domestic long-distance natural gas pipelines, the number of natural gas users in China will keep rising, which will stimulate the consumption of natural gas. As natural gas is environmentally friendly and easy to transport and use, the demand for natural gas in China is expected to keep rising from 2019 to 2023. As the growth rate of the production volume is far lower than that of the demand, the import volume of natural gas in China will keep growing from 2019 to 2023. View Full Report@ http://bit.ly/2Yc2C0q Topics Covered: - Analysis on supply of and demand for natural gas in China - China's policies on natural gas import - Volume and price of China's natural gas imports - Progress in the construction of LNG terminals and natural gas pipelines in China - Major sources of China's natural gas imports - Analysis on factors influencing natural gas import in China from 2019 to 2023 - Forecast on natural gas import in China from 2019 to 2023 San Jose, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- The "Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Forecast, Trend Analysis and Competition Tracking Global Review 2018-2026" is a thorough research study collated by XploreMR that reveals the key market insights of the market. The fiber optic gyroscope market has remained under the influence of several market trends which are expected to significantly affect the supply-demand scenario of the market during the forecast. The fiber optic gyroscope market report covers key trends of the market that hold a strong influence on the future growth prospects of the fiber optic gyroscope market. The fiber optic gyroscope market report provides all-inclusive insights and exhaustive market intelligence that covers drivers as well as challenges of the market. The report also delivers the opportunity assessment for stakeholders in the fiber optic gyroscope market. In-depth analysis of several fiber optic gyroscope market indicators such as market attractive index, supply chain analysis and value chain analysis delivers the most credible go-to forecast of the fiber optic gyroscope market during the forecast period. Get Sample Copy of this report @ https://www.xploremr.com/connectus/sample/3067 The fiber optic gyroscope market report is divided into sophisticated segments that enable the readers to fathom the overall growth prospects of the fiber optic gyroscope. A quick snapshot of a total of 18 chapters is discussed below. Chapter 1 Executive Summary The report commences with the chapter of the executive summary that provides a quick yet affluent information of the fiber optic gyroscope market. Highlighted values of CAGR and market size of individual market segments provide the readers with an all-inclusive outlook of the fiber optic gyroscope market. Chapter 2 Market Introduction In the chapter of market introduction, a definition of the fiber optic gyroscope market, market taxonomy and a brief market introduction are covered. Chapter 3 - Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis Scenario This chapter provides the fiber optic gyroscope market analysis scenario where in-depth market assessment such as value chain analysis, market size in terms of value and absolute dollar opportunity is covered. Chapter 4 Market Dynamics Market Dynamics is one of the most attractive chapters of the report that focuses on macroeconomic factors that impact the fiber optic gyroscope market growth. Also, the chapter provides a thorough assessment of the drivers, restraints, opportunities and trends of the market. Chapter 5 - Global Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast, By Sensing Axis This chapter of the report covers an in-depth assessment of the fiber optic gyroscope market segment that is categorized based on the sensing axis. The market analysis for all sub-segments including 1-axis, 2-axis and 3-axis is provided in terms of market values and market attractiveness analysis. Chapter 6 - Global Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast, By Device Type The fiber optic gyroscope market analysis and forecast for the segmentation categorized based on device type is provided in this chapter. Chapter 7 - Global Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast, By Vertical The chapter provides historical analysis and volume projections of several industry verticals where fiber optic gyroscope finds application. Market assessment for aerospace & defense, automotive, robotics, mining, healthcare and transportation & logistics is included in this chapter. Chapter 8 - Global Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast, By Region The regional analysis of the fiber optic gyroscope market, analysis and forecast values for a total of seven regions including North America, Latin America. Western Europe, Eastern Europe, APEJ, Japan and MEA are included. Chapter 9 - North America Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast North America fiber optic gyroscope market assessment is provided in this chapter. Country-wise analysis of the U.S. and Canada and growth of all market segments are included. Chapter 10 - Latin America Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast In this chapter, the fiber optic gyroscope market analysis for Latin America region is covered. Market growth is discussed in terms of country-wise analysis for Brazil, Mexico and rest of Latin America. Current and future growth prospects of all the market segments are also covered in the chapter. Chapter 11 - Western Europe Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast This chapter of the report provides fiber optic gyroscope market analysis in the Western Europe region. The analysis is backed by a thorough country-wise analysis of Germany, France, Italy, Spain, U.K., BENELUX and rest of Western Europe. Chapter 12 - Eastern Europe Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast The fiber optic gyroscope market growth in the Eastern Europe region is discussed in this chapter. In-depth country wise analysis in Russia, Poland and rest of Europe forms the basis of regional market analysis of the APEJ fiber optic gyroscope market. Chapter 13 - APEJ Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast The growth of the fiber optic gyroscope market in APEJ is discussed in this chapter. China, India, ASEAN, Australia & New Zealand and rest of APEJ markets are studied to assess the market performance of the Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ) region. Chapter 14 - Japan Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast The fiber optic gyroscope market performance in Japan is provided in this chapter. Multiple country-specific trends, historical analysis and future opportunities in the country are discussed in the chapter. Chapter 15 - MEA Fiber Optic Gyroscope Market Analysis and Forecast The fiber optic gyroscope market assessment in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is provided in this chapter. GCC countries, South Africa and rest of MEA are studied to derive MEA fiber optic gyroscope market forecast. In addition, market assessment of individual market segment is also included during the course of market analysis in MEA. Chapter 16 Competition Landscape In the competition landscape section, a dashboard view of the key market players, their company profiles, market size and relative position in the global fiber optic gyroscope marketplace is provided. Chapter 17 - Assumptions and Acronyms Used This chapter of the report delivers information of all the assumptions and acronyms used during the course of the study of the fiber optic gyroscope market. Get Full Report Access @ https://www.xploremr.com/cart/3067/SL San Jose, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- G Suite Technology Services Market A Comprehensive Presentation of Unique Growth Parameters and Growth Opportunities for Stakeholders XploreMR recently published a market research report titled "G Suite Technology Services Market Forecast, Trend Analysis and Competition Tracking Global Review 2018-2028". The report is a comprehensive representation of the most important growth parameters of the G Suite technology services market, which can help readers to understand growth prospects of the market. Readers can learn about the lucrative opportunities in the G Suite technology services market and other factors that remain instrument in the market growth during the assessment period. Readers can find qualitative and quantitative information on how the G Suite technology services market is growing across several geographical regions. Furthermore, the report also helps readers to understand the regional outlook of the G Suite technology services market to adopt apt business strategies to explore lucrative business opportunities across the globe. The report presents critical information about the G Suite technology services market in the most comprehensible, chapter-wise manner for the better understanding of readers. Get Sample Copy of this report @ https://www.xploremr.com/connectus/sample/3095 Chapter 1 Executive Summary Global G Suite Technology Services Market The report commences with this chapter that features the market summary and highlights on key market developments to help readers to get the overview of the G Suite technology services market. This chapter also provides an assessment of market opportunities for stakeholders that may help readers to plan the outline of their next business strategies. Chapter 2 Market Overview In this chapter, readers can find information, including market definition, introduction, and market structure, which can help them to understand the G Suite technology services market. The chapter also features megatrends that are popular among G Suite technology service vendors, which can help readers to understand the future prospects of the G Suite technology services market. Chapter 3 Market Dynamics Detailed information about market trends, growth drivers, industry challenges, and that are redefining the growth prospects of the G Suite technology services market is featured in this chapter. This can help G Suite technology service providers to adopt accurate business strategies to pave their way through the current competitive landscape of the G Suite technology services market. Chapter 4 Associated Industry and Key Indicator Assessment This chapter provides detailed information about the growth parameters of the G Suite technology services market and other micro and macroeconomic factors that are impacting the growth of the market. Important facts about G Suite technology, various surveys & statistics, and information about comparative analysis, financial impact of G Suite, and value chain analysis are featured in this chapter. Chapter 5 Global G Suite Technology Services Market Analysis and Forecast This chapter concentrates on the overall growth of the G Suite technology services market along with the growth of the market based on its main segments, such as region, service types, organization size, and industry. Based on region, the G Suite technology services market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific region (APAC), and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Based on the types of G Suite technology service types, the G Suite technology services market is segmented into six types advisory services, migration services, change & management, training & support, and integration services, and design & deployment. Based on the organization size, the G Suite technology services market is segmented into small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large enterprises. By industry, the G Suite technology services market is categorized into retail, manufacturing, IT & telecom, healthcare, government, BFSI, education, real estate & construction, transportation and logistics, and media & advertising. Chapter 6 North America G Suite Technology Services Market Analysis This chapter focuses on the North America G Suite technology services market to assess the adoption of G Suite technology services in the United States and Canada during the forecast period. Readers can also find detailed assessment of the North American market for G Suite technology services based on the service types, organization size, and industries in the G Suite technology services market in the region. Chapter 7 Latin America G Suite Technology Services Market Analysis In this chapter, readers can find thorough information on how G Suite technology services market will grow in Latin American region during 2018-2028. The market value assessment by country, which includes Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and rest of Latin America, by service types, organization size, and industries in Latin American market for G Suite technology services, is featured in this chapter. Chapter 8 Europe G Suite Technology Services Market Analysis The information featured in this chapter can help readers to understand growth prospects of the market for G Suite technology services in the European region. It includes information about factors instrumental in triggering or restricting adoption of G Suite technology services in leading countries in the region, such as EU-4, U.K., BENELUX, Nordic, and Eastern European countries. This chapter also explains growth prospects of the European G Suite technology services market based on service types, organization size, and industries in the G Suite technology services market. Chapter 9 APAC G Suite Technology Services Market Analysis and Forecast This chapter features information about the development of the market for G Suite technology services in Asia Pacific region by assessing the adoption of G Suite technology services in Asian countries, including Greater China, India, ASEAN countries, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, and Japan, based on its service types, enterprise size, and end-user industries. Chapter 10 MEA G Suite Technology Services Market Analysis and Forecast In this chapter, readers can find detailed information about expansion of the market for G Suite technology services in Middle East & African region (MEA) by assessing the adoption of G Suite technology services in GCC countries, South Africa, Turkey, and Israel depending on its service types, enterprise size, and end-user industries. Chapter 11 Competitive Assessment Readers can find thorough information about the competitive landscape in the G Suite technology services market with the help of detailed information about leading market players in this chapter. This chapter also provides information about share analysis of market leaders, market structure, and competitive developments in the G Suite technology services market. Chapter 12 Company Profiles This chapter provides detailed information about leading G Suite technology service providers such as Google Inc., Agosto, Inc., Capgemini SE, Maven Wave Partners LLC, Perpetual West Inc., SADA Systems, Coolhead Tech, Cloudypedia, Dito LLC, and BlueRange Technology. Chapter 13 Global G Suite Technology Services Market-Key Takeaways This chapter enlists key insights about growth of the G Suite technology services market, which are derived from the extensive information about the market development included in the report. Chapter 14 Assumptions and Acronyms Used This chapter provides information about all the assumptions and acronyms used in the report. Get Full Report Access @ https://www.xploremr.com/cart/3095/SL Selbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Space Robotics Market is expected to exceed USD 3.5 billion by 2025. Increasing government investments and projects related to space research and exploration in several countries is driving the industry demand. The launch of several satellites and spaceships working in deep and near spaces require timely maintenance and repairing, creating the need for highly efficient robotic systems. National organizations such as NASA, CSA, JAXA, etc., are introducing humanoid robots to perform the maintenance, servicing, and transportation operations to gain high efficiency, further developing the space robotics market. The rising trends of autonomous features and AI technology in robotic products will drive rapid industry expansion. Request a sample of this premium report titled at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1979109/?utm_source=Releasewire.com-AN In the space robotics market, products including rovers, probes, and arms are increasingly used in both deep and near space-related projects. Robotic arms are capable of cleaning litter and debris produces in space due to lost equipment and old satellites orbiting around the planet. The increasing need to clean the debris, which is a threat to existing satellites, spaceships, and astronauts is increasing the demand for probes and arms. Governmental organizations are developing efficient robotic arms for various projects, which will aid in performing maintenance & research related tasks to astronauts. For instance, in March 2019, Canada announced an investment of USD 1.4 billion in NASAs Lunar Gateway Program and offered a robot arm that will aid the continuous functioning of the lunar-orbiting base. The Asia Pacific space robotics market is expected to grow over the forecast time span owing to many space exploration & research projects in countries including China, Japan, and India, majorly driving the industry growth. For instance, in January 2019, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) announced that the country?s first unmanned space mission will include a humanoid robot, which is in the development stage and has multilingual features. China is also involved with several projects for space & moon exploration, which will add up to industry development prospects. Government applications in the space robotics market are rapidly developing due to several R&D activities and satellite launches for defense & security purposes in countries including the U.S., China, Israel, etc., contributing to industry growth. Moreover, the growing awareness related to space exploration and satellite launch programs that will aid defense & military activities is creating the demand for robotic technology. In the UK, the government is offering huge funding for R&D and demonstrating projects under its Innovate UK programs, such as the FAIR-SPACE hub and other projects, creating growth prospects the space robotics market. Key companies in the space robotics market are SpaceX, Northrop Grumman, Honeybee Robotics, Maxar Technologies, Orbital ATK, Altius Space Machines, Motiv Space Systems, etc. Companies are investing highly in R&D capabilities to develop efficient & technically advanced robot technologies applicable in exploration & servicing operations. These players are witnessing several partnerships and contracts with government agencies for technical advancements in the space robotics market. For instance, in December 2018, MDA announced that the company has signed four contracts with Canada under its Defence Innovation Research Program. Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report titled at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1979109/?utm_source=Releasewire.com-AN Report Content: Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope 1.1. Definitions & forecast parameters 1.1.1. Definitions 1.1.2. Methodology and forecast parameters 1.2. Data Sources 1.2.1. Secondary 1.2.2. Primary Chapter 2. Executive Summary 2.1. Space robotics industry 360 degree synopsis, 2015 - 2025 2.1.1. Business trends 2.1.2. Regional trends 2.1.3. Solution trends 2.1.4. Application trends 2.1.5. End-use trends Chapter 3. Space Robotics Industry Insights 3.1. Industry segmentation 3.2. Industry landscape, 2015 - 2025 3.3. Industry ecosystem analysis 3.3.1. Suppliers 3.3.2. Manufacturers 3.3.3. Software & technology providers 3.3.4. Service providers 3.3.5. Distribution channel analysis 3.3.6. End-use landscape 3.3.7. Vendor matrix 3.4. Technology & innovation landscape 3.5. Regulatory landscape 3.5.1. North America 3.5.2. Europe 3.5.3. Asia Pacific 3.6. Industry impact forces 3.6.1. Growth drivers 3.6.1.1. Government investments and projects related to space robotics in North America & Europe 3.6.1.2. Increasing focus on space exploration missions in Asia Pacific 3.6.1.3. Adoption of several research & technology development projects in Europe 3.6.1.4. Development of advanced space systems in Israel 3.6.2. Industry pitfalls & challenges 3.6.2.1. High investments for manufacturing & developing robotic systems 3.6.2.2. Technical issues in extreme environmental conditions 3.7. Growth potential analysis 3.8. Porter's analysis 3.8.1. Supplier power 3.8.2. Buyer power 3.8.3. Threat of new entrants 3.8.4. Threat of substitutes 3.8.5. Internal rivalry 3.9. Competitive landscape, 2018 3.9.1. Company market share analysis 3.9.2. Strategy dashboard (New product development, M&A, R&D, Investment landscape) 3.10. PESTEL analysis Chapter 4. Space Robotics Market, By Solution 4.1. Key trends by solution 4.2. Product 4.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 4.2.2. Rovers/landers 4.2.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 4.2.3. Probes 4.2.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 4.2.4. Arms/manipulator systems 4.2.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 4.2.5. Others 4.2.5.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 4.3. Software 4.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 4.4. Services 4.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 2025 Chapter 5. Space Robotics Market, By Application 5.1. Key trends by application 5.2. Deep space 5.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 5.2.2. Space exploration 5.2.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 5.2.3. Space transportation 5.2.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 5.3. Near space 5.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 5.3.2. Space exploration 5.3.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 5.3.3. Space transportation 5.3.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 2025 Chapter 6. Space Robotics Market, By End-Use 6.1. Key trends by end-use 6.2. Commercial 6.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 - 2025 6.3. Government 6.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, 2015 2025 Chapter 7. Space robotics Market, By Region 7.1. Key trends by region 7.2. North America 7.2.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.2.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.2.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.2.4. U.S. 7.2.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.2.4.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.2.4.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.2.5. Canada 7.2.5.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.2.5.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.2.5.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.3. Europe 7.3.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.3.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.3.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.3.4. UK 7.3.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.3.4.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.3.4.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.3.5. Germany 7.3.5.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.3.5.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.3.5.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.3.6. France 7.3.6.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.3.6.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.3.6.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.3.7. Italy 7.3.7.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.3.7.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.3.7.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.3.8. Russia 7.3.8.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.3.8.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.3.8.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.4. Asia Pacific 7.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.4.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.4.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.4.4. China 7.4.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.4.4.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.4.4.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.4.5. India 7.4.5.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.4.5.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.4.5.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.4.6. Japan 7.4.6.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.4.6.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.4.6.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.4.7. South Korea 7.4.7.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.4.7.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.4.7.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.5. Latin America 7.5.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.5.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.5.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.5.4. Brazil 7.5.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.5.4.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.5.4.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.6. MEA 7.6.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.6.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.6.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.6.4. Israel 7.6.4.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.6.4.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.6.4.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 7.6.5. South Africa 7.6.5.1. Market estimates and forecast, by solution, 2015 - 2025 7.6.5.2. Market estimates and forecast, by application, 2015 - 2025 7.6.5.3. Market estimates and forecast, by end-use, 2015 - 2025 Complete report titled at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/space-robotics-market/?utm_source=Releasewire.com-AN About Market Study Report Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management. Contact Us: Market Study Report LLC 4 North Main Street, Selbyville, Delaware 19975 USA Phone: 1-302-273-0910 US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150 Email: sales@marketstudyreport.com Website: https://www.marketstudyreport.com Blog: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg (L) and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu attend a press conference in Ankara, Turkey, on May 6, 2019. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday that he is worried about Turkey's plans to deploy the Russian S-400 missile defense system despite of U.S. objection. (Xinhua/Mustafa Kaya) ANKARA, May 6 (Xinhua) -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday that he is worried about Turkey's plans to deploy the Russian S-400 missile defense system despite of U.S. objection. "The purchase of any equipment is the decision of each NATO ally," Stoltenberg said in a joint news conference with the Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in the capital Ankara. "But I am concerned about the potential consequences of the decision to buy S-400. Because the U.S. has made it clear to impose sanctions," he added. Meanwhile, Stoltenberg welcomed Turkey's key role in NATO's training mission in Iraq. NATO helps protect Turkey with air and missile defense systems and enhanced patrols by Turkey's Airborne Warning and Control System surveillance planes, he said. "Over the years, NATO has invested more than 5 billion U.S. dollars in military facilities in Turkey," the secretary general said, adding that this included important infrastructure such as airfields, naval bases, and radar sites. Recalling that Turkey proposed to establish a joint working group in order to eliminate hesitations of NATO and the U.S. over its purchase of S-400 systems, Cavusoglu said that "the U.S. would accept our proposal if it is sincere with these concerns." Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has repeatedly said that Turkey won't step back from the S-400 deal, despite mounting pressure from Washington, including sanctions threats. Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Global (United States, European Union and China) Household Insecticide Market Research Report 2019-2025 is latest research study released by HTF MI evaluating the market, highlighting opportunities, risk side analysis, and leveraged with strategic and tactical decision-making support. The study provides information on market trends and development, drivers, capacities, technologies, and on the changing capital structure of the Global (United States, European Union and China) Household Insecticide Market. Some of the key players profiled in the study are Godrej Consumer Products, Reckitt Benckiser, SC Johnson & Son, Spectrum Brands, Sumitomo Chemical, Coghlan's, Dabur, Enesis Group, GLOBE-Janakantha, Goodluck Syndicate, Herbal Strategi, HOVEX, Jyothy Laboratories, Kapi, DAINIHON JOCHUGIKU, PIC & Quantum Health. Household Insecticide Market Overview: If you are involved in the Household Insecticide industry or intend to be, then this study will provide you comprehensive outlook. It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date segmented by Mosquitoes, Cockroach, Mouse & Other, , Liquid, Gas, Solid & Other and major players. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization according to your requirement. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1828046-global-united-states-european-union-and-china-household-insecticide-market Household Insecticide Market: Demand Analysis & Opportunity Outlook 2023 Research study is to define market sizes of various segments & countries in previous years and to forecast the values to the next 5-8 years. The report is designed to comprise each qualitative and quantitative elements of the industry facts including: market share, market size (value and volume 2012-17, and forecast to 2023) with admire to each of the areas and countries concerned inside the examination. Furthermore, the report additionally caters the detailed statistics about the vital elements which includes drivers & restraining factors which will define the future growth of the market. Furthermore, the years considered for the study are as follows: Historical year 2013-2017 Base year 2018 Forecast period** 2018 to 2023 [** unless otherwise stated] **Moreover, it will also include the opportunities available in micro markets for stakeholders to invest, detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product services of key players. The designated segments and sub-section of the market are explained below: The Study is segmented by following Product Type: , Liquid, Gas, Solid & Other Major applications/end-users industry are as follows: Mosquitoes, Cockroach, Mouse & Other Some of the key Manufacturers Involved in the Market are Godrej Consumer Products, Reckitt Benckiser, SC Johnson & Son, Spectrum Brands, Sumitomo Chemical, Coghlan's, Dabur, Enesis Group, GLOBE-Janakantha, Goodluck Syndicate, Herbal Strategi, HOVEX, Jyothy Laboratories, Kapi, DAINIHON JOCHUGIKU, PIC & Quantum Health You can get free access to samples from the report here: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1828046-global-united-states-european-union-and-china-household-insecticide-market For each region, market size and end users are analyzed as well as segment markets by types, applications and companies. If opting for the Global version of Household Insecticide Market analysis is provided for major regions as follows: - North America (USA, Canada and Mexico) - Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) - Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) - South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.) - Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) Buy this research report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1828046 Key Answers Captured in Study are Which geography would have better demand for product/services? What are the strategies adopted by big players in the regional market? Which country would see the steep rise in CAGR & year-on-year (Y-O-Y) growth? What is the current & expected market size in next five years? What is the market feasibility for long term investment? What opportunity the country would offer for existing and new players in the Household Insecticide market? What is risk involved for suppliers in the geography? What factors would drive the demand for the product/service in near future? What is the impact analysis of various factors in the Global (United States, European Union and China) Household Insecticide market growth? What are the recent trends in the regional market and how successful they are? Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1828046-global-united-states-european-union-and-china-household-insecticide-market There are 15 Chapters to display the Global (United States, European Union and China) Household Insecticide market. Chapter 1, About Executive Summary to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of Global (United States, European Union and China) Household Insecticide market, Applications [Mosquitoes, Cockroach, Mouse & Other], Market Segment by Regions United States, China, European Union & Rest of World (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia); Chapter 2, objective of the study. Chapter 3, to display Research methodology and techniques. Chapter 4 and 5, to show the Overall Market Analysis, segmentation analysis, characteristics; Chapter 6 and 7, to show the Market size, share and forecast; Five forces analysis (bargaining Power of buyers/suppliers), Threats to new entrants and market condition; Chapter 8 and 9, to show analysis by regional segmentation[United States, China, European Union & Rest of World (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) ], comparison, leading countries and opportunities; Regional Marketing Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis Chapter 10, focus on identifying the key industry influencer's, overview of decision framework accumulated through Industry experts and strategic decision makers; Chapter 11 and 12, Market Trend Analysis, Drivers, Challenges by consumer behaviour, Marketing Channels and demand & supply. Chapter 13 and 14, describe about the vendor landscape (classification and Market Positioning) Chapter 15, deals with Global (United States, European Union and China) Household Insecticide Market sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia or Oceania [Australia and New Zealand]. New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- The recent report, Ion Exchange Equipments market fundamentally discovers insights that enable stakeholders, business owners and field marketing executives to make effective investment decisions driven by facts rather than guesswork. The study aims at listening, analyzing and delivering actionable data on the competitive landscape to meet the unique requirements of the companies and individuals operating in the Ion Exchange Equipments market for the forecast period, 2019 to 2026. Request for FREE Sample Copy of Ion Exchange Equipments Market Report @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/sample-enquiry-form/39347 Scope of the Report: The research methodologies used for evaluating the Ion Exchange Equipments market are inventive and also provides enough evidence on the demand and supply status, production capability, import and export, supply chain management and investment feasibility. The investigative approach applied for the extensive analysis of the sale, gross margin and profit generated by the industry are presented through resources including tables, charts, and graphic images. Importantly, these resources can be easily integrated or used for preparing business or corporate presentations. Market Segment by manufacturers, the report covers the following companies: Parker-Hannifin Corporation (US), Toray Industries Inc. (Japan), Suez Environnement S.A.(France), Hydranautics (USA), BWT AG (Austria), Degremont Technologies (France), ProMinent GmbH (Germany), Ondeo Industrial Solutions (France), Aquatech International Corporation (USA), Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Co., (South Korea), Hyflux Ltd (Singapore), BRITA LP (USA), Ecolab, Inc. (USA), Hitachi Ltd (Japan), Calgon Carbon Corporation (USA), Norit Nederland B.V. (The Netherlands), Asahi Kasei Corporation (Japan), Culligan International (USA), GE Water & Process Technologies (US), Nitto Denko Corp. (Japan), H2O Innovation, Inc. (Canada), Mitsubishi Rayon Co Ltd (Japan), Koch Membrane Systems (USA), Kurita Water Industries (Japan), Pentair, Inc. (USA), Pall Corporation (USA), 3M Purification, Inc. (USA), Evoqua Water Technologies LLC (UK), GLV Incorporated (Canada), Dow Water & Process Solutions (USA) Market split by Type, can be divided into: - Type 1 - Type 2 - Type 3 Market split by Application, can be divided into: - Application 1 - Application 2 - Application 3 Order Now @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/checkout-form/39347 In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Ion Exchange Equipments are as follows: - History Year: 2014-2018 - Base Year: 2018 - Estimated Year: 2019 - Forecast Year 2019 to 2026 Estimating the potential size of the Ion Exchange Equipments industry: Industry experts conducting the study further estimate the potential of the Ion Exchange Equipments industry. Such information is important for firms looking to launch an innovative service or product on the market. Industry experts have measured the total volume of the given market. Researchers have calculated the industry in terms of sales by the competitors and end-user customers. Data on the entire size of the Ion Exchange Equipments market for a particular product or a service for the forecast period, 2019 to 2026 covered in the report makes it valuable. This information reveals the upper limit of the Ion Exchange Equipments industry for a specific product or service. Market share: The report discovers market's total sale that is generated by a particular firms over a time period. Industry experts calculate share by taking into account the product sales over a period and then dividing it by the overall sales of the Ion Exchange Equipments industry over a defined period. Subject matter experts further use this metric to offer a general idea of the share and size of a firm and its immediate rivals. By providing an in-depth knowledge of the position a company as well as an entrepreneur holds in the Ion Exchange Equipments market The research provides answers to the following key questions: - What is the estimated growth rate of the Ion Exchange Equipments market for the forecast period 2019 - 2026? What will be the market share and size of the industry during the estimated period? - What are prime factors expected to drive the Ion Exchange Equipments industry for the estimated period? - What are the major market leaders and what has been their winning strategy for success so far? - What are the significant trends shaping the growth prospects of the Ion Exchange Equipments market? - What are the key challenges expected to restrict the progress of the industry for the forecast period, 2019 - 2026? - What the opportunities product owners can bank on to generate high profits? Read More @ https://www.marketexpertz.com/industry-overview/ion-exchange-equipments-market Key Points from TOC 8 Competitive Landscape 8.1 Competitive Profile 8.2 Parker-Hannifin Corporation (US) 8.2.1 Company Profiles 8.2.2 Ion Exchange Equipments Product Introduction 8.2.3 Parker-Hannifin Corporation (US) Production, Value ($), Price, Gross Margin 2014-2019 8.2.4 Parker-Hannifin Corporation (US) Market Share of Ion Exchange Equipments Segmented by Region in 2018 8.3 Toray Industries Inc. (Japan) 8.3.1 Company Profiles 8.3.2 Ion Exchange Equipments Product Introduction 8.3.3 Toray Industries Inc. (Japan) Production, Value ($), Price, Gross Margin 2014-2019 8.3.4 Toray Industries Inc. (Japan) Market Share of Ion Exchange Equipments Segmented by Region in 2018 8.4 Suez Environnement S.A.(France) 8.4.1 Company Profiles 8.4.2 Ion Exchange Equipments Product Introduction 8.4.3 Suez Environnement S.A.(France) Production, Value ($), Price, Gross Margin 2014-2019 8.4.4 Suez Environnement S.A.(France) Market Share of Ion Exchange Equipments Segmented by Region in 2018 Continue About MarketExpertz Planning to invest in market intelligence products or offerings on the web Then marketexpertz has just the thing for you - reports from over 500 prominent publishers and updates on our collection daily to empower companies and individuals catch-up with the vital insights on industries operating across different geography, trends, share, size and growth rate. There's more to what we offer to our customers. With marketexpertz you have the choice to tap into the specialized services without any additional charges. Contact Us: John Watson Head of Business Development E-mail: sales@marketexpertz.com Direct Line: +1-800-819-3052 Market Expertz | Web: www.marketexpertz.com News: https://www.marketexpertz.com/market-news Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- HTF MI recently introduced Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Market study with in-depth overview, describing about the Product / Industry Scope and elaborates market outlook and status to 2023. The market Study is segmented by key regions which is accelerating the marketization. At present, the market is developing its presence and some of the key players from the complete study are CloudFounders, Cloudian, Egnyte, ETegro, EVault & Intequus etc. Request Sample of Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Market Report (2014-2024) - Market Size, Share, Price, Trend and Forecast @: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1825250-southeast-asia-mobile-cloud-market-report This report studies the Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. This research report categorizes the Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud market by companies, region, type and end-use industry. Browse 100+ market data Tables and Figures spread through Pages and in-depth TOC on " Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Market by Type (, Type I, Type II & Type III), by End-Users/Application (Application I, Application II & Application III), Organization Size, Industry, and Region - Forecast to 2023". Early buyers will receive 10% customization on comprehensive study. In order to get a deeper view of Market Size, competitive landscape is provided i.e. Revenue (Million USD) by Players (2013-2018), Revenue Market Share (%) by Players (2013-2018) and further a qualitative analysis is made towards market concentration rate, product/service differences, new entrants and the technological trends in future. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1825250-southeast-asia-mobile-cloud-market-report Competitive Analysis: The key players are highly focusing innovation in production technologies to improve efficiency and shelf life. The best long-term growth opportunities for this sector can be captured by ensuring ongoing process improvements and financial flexibility to invest in the optimal strategies. Company profile section of players such as CloudFounders, Cloudian, Egnyte, ETegro, EVault & Intequus includes its basic information like legal name, website, headquarters, its market position, historical background and top 5 closest competitors by Market capitalization / revenue along with contact information. Each player/ manufacturer revenue figures, growth rate and gross profit margin is provided in easy to understand tabular format for past 5 years and a separate section on recent development like mergers, acquisition or any new product/service launch etc. Market Segments: The Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Market has been divided into type, application, and region. On The Basis Of Type:, Type I, Type II & Type III. On The Basis Of Application: Application I, Application II & Application III On The Basis Of Region, this report is segmented into following key geographies, with production, consumption, revenue (million USD), and market share, growth rate of Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud in these regions, from 2013 to 2023 (forecast), covering - North America (U.S. & Canada) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Analysis (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Latin America (Brazil, Mexico & Rest of Latin America) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Europe (The U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Sweden & RoE) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Asia-Pacific (China, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Rest of Asia) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Middle East & Africa (GCC, South Africa, North Africa, RoMEA) {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Share (%) and Opportunity Analysis} - Rest of World {Market Revenue (USD Billion), Growth Analysis (%) and Opportunity Analysis} Buy Single User License of Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Market Report (2014-2024) - Market Size, Share, Price, Trend and Forecast @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1825250 Have a look at some extracts from Table of Content Introduction about Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Market Size (Sales) Market Share by Type (Product Category) in 2017 Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Market by Application/End Users Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Sales (Volume) and Market Share Comparison by Applications (2013-2023) table defined for each application/end-users like [Application I, Application II & Application III] Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Sales and Growth Rate (2013-2023) Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Competition by Players/Suppliers, Region, Type and Application Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud (Volume, Value and Sales Price) table defined for each geographic region defined. Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Players/Suppliers Profiles and Sales Data Additionally Company Basic Information, Manufacturing Base and Competitors list is being provided for each listed manufacturers Market Sales, Revenue, Price and Gross Margin (2013-2018) table for each product type which include, Type I, Type II & Type III Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Manufacturing Cost Analysis Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Key Raw Materials Analysis Southeast Asia Mobile Cloud Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers, Industrial Chain Analysis Market Forecast (2018-2023) ........and more in complete table of Contents Browse for Full Report at: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1825250-southeast-asia-mobile-cloud-market-report Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- According to a new report 'Montan Wax Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 20182026 published by Transparency Market Research (TMR) , the global montan wax market was valued at US$ 118 Million in 2017 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of more than 4.0% from 2018 to 2026. Rise in demand for plastics is driving the global market. In terms of value, the market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of more than 4.0% during the forecast period. Montan wax is designed to withstand severe operating conditions as well as environmental impacts. Read Report Overview @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/montan-wax-market.html Coating Agents Segment to Dominate Global Montan Wax Market Increase in usage of montan wax in coating agents is estimated to propel the montan wax market during the forecast period. Demand for montan wax is rising, as it constantly delivers outstanding performance and benefits in the coating agents segment. Montan wax is widely used as coating agents in automotive coatings, furniture coatings, and fruit coating. The lubricants segment also holds significant share of the global montan wax market, as this wax is used as lubricant in various machinery and plastic processes, especially for engineering plastics. Wax Polishes Segment to Dominate Global Montan Wax Market Montan wax is primarily used to polish various objects such as floors, furniture, leather, and cars. Depending upon the requirement of applications, the wax product can be formulated as water-based, water solvent-based liquid, gel-like wax, or solid dispersants. Montan wax possesses properties akin to carnauba wax. It can be used in place of carnauba wax, where the focus is not on the color. Montan wax is darker than carnauba wax. Request to view Sample Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=63105 Wide Customer Base in Developed Countries to Create Growth Opportunities Based on region, the global montan wax market has been divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America and Europe hold major share of the global montan wax market, as most of the crude montan wax is produced in these regions. Europe constitutes significant share of the global market. Rise in use of montan wax in developed economies such as Germany and Russia & CIS is projected to boost the market in Europe during the forecast period. The montan wax market in Asia Pacific is estimated to expand at a moderate pace during the forecast period, due to the presence of montan wax ores in China. China is the major producer and consumer of montan wax. The montan wax market in Latin America and Middle East & Africa is likely to expand at a sluggish pace in the near future. Request to view Brochure Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=63105 Key players operating in the global montan wax market include ROMONTA GmbH, Clariant, Mayur Dyes & Chemicals Corporation, S. KATO & CO., Yunphos, Poth Hille, Frank B. Ross Co., Inc., Volpker Special Products GmbH, FIRST SOURCE WORLDWIDE, LLC., AmeriLubes, L.L.C., Carmel Industries, Parchvale Ltd., MUNZING Corporation, and ALTANA. These companies engage in acquisitions and joint ventures to enhance their market position. Selbyville, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- The multiparameter patient monitoring market is anticipated to reach over USD 4,016.0 million by 2026 according to a new research. In 2017, the cardiology application dominated the global multiparameter patient monitoring market, in terms of revenue. Asia-Pacific is expected to be the leading contributor to the global market revenue in 2017. There has been a great demand for multiparameter patient monitoring in the years. This modular unit helps in personalized health management by monitoring early phase medical condition of the patient, by conventionally analyzing environmental & physiological data and assessing with the affective feedback. Request a sample of this premium report at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1695289/?utm_source=releasewire.com&utm_medium=ADS The industry growth is majorly attributed to the growing healthcare industry that focuses on easy diagnosis, accurate analysis of disease, and increasing healthcare expenditure by the developing countries which has promoted digitalization in the healthcare industry in coming years. However, stringent government regulations, and cost of implementation of these multiparameter patient monitoring equipment would impede the market growth in the coming years. The multiparameter patient monitoring market is primarily driven by the factors such as rising prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, and health disorders. Similarly, increase in the cardiological disorder across the globe to also be a supportive indicator for this market growth. Furthermore, increasing number of hospitals that focus on the technology advanced facilities to the patients, and increasing preference for sedentary lifestyle by the population to boost the entire industry growth. North America generated the highest revenue in the multiparameter patient monitoring market in 2017, and Asia Pacific expected to be the fastest growing region globally during the forecast period. North Americas multiparameter patient monitoring market is primarily driven by the technologically advanced healthcare infrastructure of the U.S. and Canada. Moreover, increasing number of mergers and acquisition between the key players in this region would also promote the growth of this regions market during the forecast period. While, Asia Pacifics market is majorly driven by the increasing awareness for the use of multiparameter patient monitoring equipment, and need for diagnosis of chronic diseases at an early stage. The key players operating in the multiparameter patient monitoring market include GE Healthcare, Mindray Medical International, CAS Medical Systems, Medtronic Plc, Philips Healthcare, Roche Diagnostics, Schiller, and Spacelab Healthcare. These companies launch new products and collaborate with other market leaders to innovate and launch new products to meet the increasing needs and requirements of consumers. Table of Contents 1. Overview and Scope 1.1. Research goal & scope 1.2. Research assumptions 1.3. Research Methodology 1.3.1. Primary data sources 1.3.2. Secondary data sources 1.4. Key take-away 1.5. Stakeholders 2. Executive Summary 2.1. Market Definition 2.2. Market Segmentation 3. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Insights 3.1. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Industry snapshot 3.2. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring - Ecosystem analysis 3.3. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Dynamics 3.3.1. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Forces 3.3.1.1. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Driver Analysis 3.3.1.2. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Restraint/Challenges analysis 3.3.1.3. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Opportunity Analysis 3.4. Industry analysis - Porter's five force 3.4.1. Bargaining power of supplier 3.4.2. Bargaining power of buyer 3.4.3. Threat of substitute 3.4.4. Threat of new entrant 3.4.5. Degree of competition 3.5. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market PEST Analysis 3.6. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Value Chain Analysis 3.7. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Industry Trends 3.8. Competitive Ranking Analysis 4. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Size and Forecast by Device Type, 2018-2026 4.1. Key Findings 4.2. Patient Monitors 4.3. Wireless Monitoring 4.4. Surveillance & Networking 4.5. Clinical Decision Support System 4.6. Cable Less measurement 4.7. Others 5. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Size and Forecast by Application Type, 2018-2026 5.1. Key Findings 5.2. Cardiology 5.3. Neurology 5.4. Respiratory 5.5. Fetal &Neonatal 5.6. Others 6. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Size and Forecast by End Use Type, 2018-2026 6.1. Key Findings 6.2. Hospitals 6.3. Home Healthcare 6.4. Ambulatory Care Centers 7. Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Market Size and Forecast by Region, 2018-2026 Purchase Complete Report at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/securecheckout/paymenta/1695289?msfpaycode=sumsf?utm_source=releasewire.com&utm_medium=ADS Related Report: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Market [By System (Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, Night Vision System, Intelligent Park Assist, Driver Monitoring System, Adaptive Front Light, Blind Spot Detection, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Autonomous Emergency Braking System, Others) Market size & Forecast, 2018 - 2026 The global Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) market was valued at $19.8 billion in 2017 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 21.4% during the forecast period. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems offer improved passenger experience, comfort, and safety to vehicles and drivers. Integration of advanced driver assistance systems into vehicles enable enhanced situational awareness and control for easier and safer driving experience. Some components enabling efficient functioning of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems include LiDAR, sensors, radar systems, artificial intelligence software, and GPS among others. Request a sample of this premium report titled at: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1695121/?utm_source=releasewire.com&utm_medium=ADS About Market Study Report Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management. Contact Us: Market Study Report LLC 4 North Main Street, Selbyville, Delaware 19975 USA Phone: 1-302-273-0910 US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150 Email:sales@marketstudyreport.com Website:https://www.marketstudyreport.com Blog: https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog/ Pune, Maharashtra -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Demand for Fresh Products & Ingredients is Likely to Boost the Baking Mix, Base and Concentrate Market Growth The baking mix, base and concentrate are the pre-mixes or improved formulation of the ingredients required in the baking activity. The baking mix, base and concentrates improve the texture, baking time, and taste of the bakery products. The common ingredients in the baking mix, base and concentrates are baking powder, flavoring ingredients, baking soda, yeast, sugar, salt, flour and other ingredients as required for different bakery products. The growing demand for ready-to-use products in the food industry and the bakery industry is expected to encourage the growth of baking mix, bases and concentrates market in the forecast period. The global baking mix, base and concentrate market is expected to grow with the single-digit growth rate in the forecast period, 2018-2028. Baking Mix, Base and Concentrate Market is estimated to Witness Growth over the Forecast Period The baking mix, base and concentrate helps to maintain the texture and taste and improvises the quality of the bakery products. The bakers face different challenges related to baking such as lumps, cracked cake top, heavy cake volume due to over mixing and others will be overcome using baking mix, base and concentrate. The baking benefits by the use of baking mix, base and concentrate is expected to be the driving factor for the growth of the global baking mix, base and concentrate market in the forecast period. The growth of the food industry and bakery industry is anticipated to contribute to the growth of the baking mix, base and concentrate market. Moreover, the consumers' shifting purchase behavior owing to the demand for convenience and ready-to-use products is projected to boost the baking mix, base and concentrate market. Request Free Sample Report@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=3015 Modern Trade Channel is the Prominent Sales Channel in the Global Baking Mix, Base and Concentrate Market The baking mix, base and concentrate market can be segmented on the basis of product type as biscuits and cookies, bread, baked chips and wafers, cakes and pastries and other products which use baking mix, base and concentrate. The baking mix, base and concentrate market can also be segmented on the basis of form as powder and liquid. The baking mix, base and concentrate market can be segmented on the basis of sales channel as modern trade channel, convenience stores, specialty stores, online retailers, direct-to-customer and other sales channel. The sales of baking mix, base and concentrate through modern trade channels are expected to grow significantly in the forecast period. North America is expected to dominate the Global Baking Mix, Base and Concentrate Market The global baking mix, base and concentrate market are segmented into Latin America, Western Europe, North America, Asia and Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Eastern Europe, Japan, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA). The regional segments also include emerging countries such as China, India, and Australia in the baking mix, base and concentrate market. Sales and demand for the baking mix, base and concentrate in North America are expected to hold a considerable share in the global baking mix, base and concentrate market. The North America Baking mix, base and concentrate market is growing due to the substantial growth in the bakery industry in the region. Moreover, the significant growth of the food & beverage and bakery & confectionery industry in the developing regions, such as APEJ and Latin America, is expected to contribute to the growth of the global baking mix, base and concentrate market in the forecast period. Request/View TOC@ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=T&rep_id=3015 Manufacturers Effort for Premiumization is expected to trigger the Baking Mix, Base and Concentrate Market Some of the players in the baking mix, base and concentrate market are General Mills, Inc., Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Cargill Inc., Bakels Worldwide, Chelsea Milling Company, Associated British Foods plc, Ingredion Incorporated, Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc., Dawn Food Products Inc., Hain Celestial Group, Inc., Pinnacle Foods Inc., among others. The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the Baking mix, base and concentrate market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The Baking mix, base and concentrate market research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application and industry. The Baking mix, base and concentrate market report covers exhaustive analysis on: Market Segments Market Dynamics Market Size Supply & Demand Current Trends/Issues/Challenges Competition & Companies involved Technology Value Chain Baking mix, base and concentrate Market Regional analysis includes: North America (U.S., Canada) Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru) Western Europe (Germany, Italy, France, U.K, Spain, BENELUX, Nordic, Eastern Europe) CIS and Russia Asia-Pacific (China, India, ASEAN, South Korea) Japan Middle East and Africa (GCC Countries, South Africa, Turkey, Iran, Israel) The Baking mix, base and concentrate market report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The Baking mix, base and concentrate market report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The Baking mix, base and concentrate market report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies. Baking mix, base and concentrate Market Report Highlights: Detailed overview of parent market Changing market dynamics in the industry In-depth market segmentation Historical, current and projected market size in terms of volume and value Recent industry trends and developments Competitive landscape Strategies of key players and products offered Potential and niche segments, geographical regions exhibiting promising growth A neutral perspective on market performance Must-have information for market players to sustain and enhance their market footprint Report Analysis@ https://www.factmr.com/report/3015/baking-mix-base-and-concentrate-market About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us Rohit Bhisey Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: sales@factmr.com Web: https://www.factmr.com/ Blog: https://factmrblog.com/ Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/07/2019 -- The report "Returnable Packaging Market by Product Type (Pallets, Crates, Intermediate Bulk Containers, Drums & Barrels, Bottles, Dunnage), Material (Plastic, Metal, Wood, Glass, Foam), End-use Industry, Region - Global Forecast to 2023", The returnable packaging market is projected to grow from USD 37.9 billion in 2018 to USD 51.2 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period. The rising demand for returnable packaging from various end-use industries such as food & beverages, consumer durables, and automotive, and increasing urban population are expected to drive the growth of the returnable packaging market across the globe. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness, improved product protection, and reduced environmental impact offered by returnable packaging solutions are leading to their increased adoption across the globe. Browse 78 market data Tables and 38 Figures spread through 135 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Returnable Packaging Market - Global Forecast to 2023" Download PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=231944920 In terms of volume, the Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2018 to 2023. The Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) segment of the returnable packaging market is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, in terms of volume. The growth of this segment can be attributed to the expansion of the commodity trade in emerging economies such as India and Brazil. One of the key advantages offered by IBCs is their excellent strength, high durability, and long lifespan of over 20 years. Cubic shaped IBCs are being increasingly used in various end-use industries as they offer optimum space utilization, thereby enabling the transportation of a large quantity of materials in the same space. Moreover, IBCs are stackable, which enable the packaging of goods in bulk quantities. In terms of value and volume, the automotive segment is estimated to lead the returnable packaging market in 2018. The global automotive industry is characterized by the presence of complex supply chains and networks that require several processes to be integrated to enable the inbound and outbound flow of returnable packaging. Currently, several Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are using returnable packaging to enhance the efficiency of their operations by reducing the lead time required for delivering products back to manufacturers/suppliers. Returnable containers are widely used by automotive manufacturers to transport different parts of automotive components to suppliers of components. The demand for returnable packaging is continuously increasing in the automotive industry due to the pressure of cost reduction exerted on OEMs to handle competition in the market. In terms of value and volume, the European region is projected to lead the returnable packaging market during the forecast period. The European region is projected to lead the returnable packaging market, in terms of both, value and volume, from 2018 to 2023. The growth of the Europe returnable packaging market can be attributed to the increased awareness among consumers regarding sustainable packaging and a strong industrial base in the region. The market for returnable packaging in the European region is also supported by improvements in the economy of the region and rise in the domestic demand for packaged food products and beverages. Moreover, the increased awareness among the masses for reducing packaging waste is also expected to drive the market for returnable packaging in the European region. Speak with our Expert @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/speaktoanalystNew.asp?id=231944920 Brambles (Australia), Schoeller Allibert (Netherlands), Menasha Corporation (US), DS Smith (UK), Myers Industries (US), Nefab Group (Sweden), Rehrig Pacific Company (US), IPL Plastics (Ireland), Schutz GmbH & Co. KGaA (Germany), and Vetropack Holding (Switzerland) are the key players operating in the returnable packaging market. Expansions, investments, divestments, new product developments, and acquisitions are some of the major strategies adopted by these key players to enhance their position in the returnable packaging market. 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, "Knowledgestore" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets. Contact: Mr. Shelly Singh MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA : 1-888-600-6441 sales@marketsandmarkets.com Northbrook, IL -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- According to a new market research report "Smart Grid Market by Software (AMI, Grid Distribution, Grid Network, Grid Asset, Grid Security, Substation Automation, and Billing & CIS), Hardware (Smart Meter), Service (Consulting, Integration, and Support), and Region - Global Forecast to 2023" published by MarketsandMarkets, the Smart Grid Market size is expected to grow from USD 23.8 billion in 2018 to USD 61.3 billion by 2023, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 20.9% during the forecast period. Government policies and legislative mandates, the awareness of carbon footprints, modernization of aging grid infrastructure, and improved grid reliability and efficient outage response are driving the adoption of smart grid solutions. With the increasing deployment of smart grid solutions in the smart cities, the Smart Grid Market is expected to gain a major traction during the forecast period. Browse in-depth TOC on "Smart Grid Market" 48-Tables 51- Figures 179 Pages Browse Full Report @ https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/smart-grid-market-208777577.html The smart grid distribution management segment to contribute the highest market share The smart grid distribution management segment is expected to hold the highest market share during the forecast period. Smart grid distribution management is a software platform that integrates Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Energy Management System (EMS), Distribution Management System (DMS), Demand Response (DR) management, and Distributed Energy Resource Management (DERM) for energy distribution management and optimization on a real-time basis. The deployment and integration segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period The deployment and integration services segment is expected to have the highest market share and projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Deployment and integration services help in reducing the deployment and integration time. These services are crucial for developing end-to-smart grid solutions for the energy sector. The increasing requirement for upgrading traditional smart grid systems to support various smart cities and smart grids is increasing the growth of the deployment and integration services segment in the Smart Grid Market. North America to contribute the highest market share, whereas Middle East and Africa (MEA) to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period North America is expected to hold the highest market share and dominate the Smart Grid Market during the forecast period. The region has been extremely responsive toward adopting the latest technological advancements, such as Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), smart grid distribution management, smart grid network, and substation automation. The major factors driving this region are the large-scale investments in smart grid and smart city projects, and need for better smart grid and control mechanisms. MEA is in its initial growth phase; however, it is the fastest-growing region in the global Smart Grid Market. The region has huge reservoirs of conventional and renewable energy sources. The high adoption of solutions to minimize outages and revenue losses, and provide better smart grids and controls has led to a wider demand for smart grid solutions in MEA. The major vendors offering smart grids are GE (US), ABB (Switzerland), Siemens (Germany), Schneider Electric (France), Itron (US), Landis+Gyr (Switzerland), Aclara (US), Cisco (US), OSI (US), IBM (US), Wipro (India), Honeywell (US), Oracle (US), S&C Electric Company (US), Eaton (Ireland), Kamstrup (Denmark), Trilliant Holdings (US), Globema (Poland), Tech Mahindra (India), Enel X North America (US), eSmart Systems (Norway), Tanatalus (US), EsyaSoft (India), Grid4C (US), and C3 Energy (US). 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, and 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: Mr. Shelly Singh MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: 1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/07/2019 -- The research study presented here is a brilliant compilation of different types of analysis of critical aspects of the global Small Wind Turbines market. It sheds light on how the global Small Wind Turbines market is expected to grow during the course of the forecast period. With SWOT analysis and Porter's Five Forces analysis, it gives a deep explanation of the strengths and weaknesses of the global Small Wind Turbines market and different players operating therein. The authors of the report have also provided qualitative and quantitative analyses of several microeconomic and macroeconomic factors impacting the global Small Wind Turbines market. In addition, the research study helps to understand the changes in the industry supply chain, manufacturing process and cost, sales scenarios, and dynamics of the global Small Wind Turbines market. The market volume of small wind turbines is related to economical and political factors. As there will always be some uncertainties in the global economy in the following years, the growth rate of small wind turbines market might not keep that fast. But it is surely forecasted that the market of small wind turbines is still promising. The significant rise in demand for renewable sources of energy generation coupled with rapid industrialization is a key driving factor boosting the small wind power market world-wide. Furthermore, growing concerns over adverse environmental impacts of power generated through fossil fuel will further result in the adoption of wind power as alternative sources of power as a convenient & cost-effective solution. The global Small Wind Turbines market was 230 million US$ in 2018 and is expected to 470 million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of 9.7% between 2019 and 2025. Access PDF Version of this Report at: https://www.qyresearch.com/sample-form/form/1091535/global-small-wind-turbines-market Key Players :Northern Power Systems Primus Wind Power Ghrepower Ningbo WinPower Bergey wind power ZK Energy Polaris America Ogin, Inc. Renewtech Montanari Energy Turbina Energy AG Oulu Eocycle HY Energy S&W Energy Systems Kliux Energies By the product type, the market is primarily split into Horizontal axis wind turbine Vertical axis wind turbine By the end users/application, this report covers the following segments On-Grid Off-Grid Regions Covered in the Global Small Wind Turbines Market: The Middle East and Africa (GCC Countries and Egypt) North America (the United States, Mexico, and Canada) South America (Brazil etc.) Europe (Turkey, Germany, Russia UK, Italy, France, etc.) Asia-Pacific (Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia) Table of Contents Industry Overview: The first section of the research study touches on an overview of the global Small Wind Turbines market, market status and outlook, and product scope. Additionally, it provides highlights of key segments of the global Small Wind Turbines market, i.e. regional, type, and application segments. Competition Analysis: Here, the report brings to light important mergers and acquisitions, business expansions, product or service differences, market concentration rate, the competitive status of the global Small Wind Turbines market, and market size by player. Company Profiles and Key Data: This section deals with the company profiling of leading players of the global Small Wind Turbines market on the basis of revenue, products, business, and other factors mentioned earlier. Market Size by Type and Application: Besides offering a deep analysis of the size of the global Small Wind Turbines market by type and application, this section provides a study on top end users or consumers and potential applications. North America Market: Here, the report explains the changes in the market size of North America by application and player. Europe Market: This section of the report shows how the size of the Europe market will change in the next few years. China Market: It gives analysis of the China market and its size for all the years of the forecast period. Rest of Asia Pacific Market: The Rest of Asia Pacific market is analyzed in quite some detail here on the basis of application and player. Central and South America Market: The report explains the changes in the size of the Central and South America market by player and application. MEA Market: This section shows how the size of the MEA market will change during the course of the forecast period. Market Dynamics: Here, the report deals with the drivers, restraints, challenges, trends, and opportunities of the global Small Wind Turbines market. This section also includes the Porter's Five Forces analysis. Research Findings and Conclusion: It gives powerful recommendations for new as well as established players for securing a position of strength in the global Small Wind Turbines market. Methodology and Data Source: This section includes the authors list, a disclaimer, research approach, and data sources. Key Questions Answered What will be the size and CAGR of the global Small Wind Turbines market in the next five years? Which segment will take the lead in the global Small Wind Turbines market? What is the average manufacturing cost? What are the key business tactics adopted by top players of the global Small Wind Turbines market? Which region will secure a lion's share of the global Small Wind Turbines market? Which company will show dominance in the global Small Wind Turbines market? Research Methodology QY Research uses trustworthy primary and secondary research sources to compile its reports. It also relies on latest research techniques to prepare highly detailed and accurate research studies such as this one here. It uses data triangulation, top down and bottom up approaches, and advanced research processes to come out with comprehensive and industry-best market research reports Get Full Report Now at : https://www.qyresearch.com/settlement/pre/3649375d0578d65b008653e7eb8876d1,0,1,Global%20Small%20Wind%20Turbines%20Market%20Report,%20History%20and%20Forecast%202014-2025,%20Breakdown%20Data%20by%20Manufacturers,%20Key%20Regions,%20Types%20and%20Application About QYResearch QYResearch always pursuits high product quality with the belief that quality is the soul of business. Through years of effort and supports from the huge number of customer supports, QYResearch consulting group has accumulated creative design methods on many high-quality markets investigation and research team with rich experience. Today, QYResearch has become the brand of quality assurance in the consulting industry. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/07/2019 -- Transparency Market Research (TMR) has published a new report titled, Surgical Tables and Lights Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 20182026. According to the report, the global surgical tables and lights market was valued at more than US$ 1,300.0 Mn in 2017 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of more than 3.0% from 2018 to 2026. Developing health care infrastructure in emerging countries and introduction of technologically advanced surgical tables and lights by market players are likely to boost demand for surgical tables and lights during the forecast period. Rapid development of health care infrastructure and increase in per capita health care expenditure present significant opportunities in the market in countries such as Australia, India, and New Zealand. This in turn is likely to boost the surgical tables and lights market in Asia Pacific from 2018 to 2026. Specialty surgical tables incur high acquisition as well as maintenance costs for health care settings. Constant evolution in the surgical tables and lights segment, with introduction of new features and designs has led to high prices of these products. This acts as a major restraint of the global market. The price of a general surgery table ranges from US$ 3,000 to US$ 7,000 in the U.S., while that of a specialty table ranges between US$ 9,000 and US$ 30,000. LED surgical lights based on various illumination techniques are estimated to cost from US$ 8,000 to US$ 25,000 in the U.S. Request to View Sample of Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=46236 The report offers detailed segmentation of the global surgical tables and lights market based on product type and application. In terms of product type, the surgical tables segment is projected to account for a large share of the global market during the forecast period. Demand for surgical tables and lights in operating rooms is propelled by increase in number of ambulatory surgery centers in the U.S. and other developed countries, and emergence of new hospital projects in Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa. Moreover, increase in number of new and advanced surgery tables introduced in the global market and comparatively higher prices of these equipment have led to dominant share of the segment in 2017. The gynecology examination tables segment is anticipated to lose market share during the forecast period and account for less than 18.0% by 2026. In terms of application, the public hospitals segment is projected to account for a dominant share of the global surgical tables and lights market during the forecast period. The segment is likely to expand at a higher CAGR from 2018 to 2026, owing to well-developed hospital infrastructure in the U.S., Canada, and countries in Europe that is largely governed by the public sector. According to the Organization of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the public sector accounts for 85% of the total GDP spending on health care by developed countries in Europe and North America. However, increase in number of private players entering the market in emerging countries and rise in number of public-private partnerships are projected to drive the private hospitals segment of the global market from 2018 to 2026. Request to View Brochure of Report - https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=46236 In terms of revenue, North America held a major share of the global surgical tables and lights market in 2017. This is due to increase in number of hospital-based and free-standing ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) and rise in installation of integrated and hybrid operating rooms by existing hospitals in the region. Entry of new players in the hospitals segment along with rise in investments by public & private sectors is encouraging the development of new hospitals in countries such as Australia & New Zealand and India. These factors are expected to drive demand for new unit shipments of surgical tables and lights in Asia Pacific. Moreover, rise in per capita health care spending and better access to health care service are factors likely to propel the surgical tables and lights market in Asia Pacific from 2018 to 2026. The report also provides profiles of leading players operating in the global surgical tables and lights market. These include Stryker, Hill-Rom Services, Inc., STERIS plc, Getinge AB, Mizuho OSI, Merivaara Corp., JW Bioscience, Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co., Ltd., Dr. Mach GmbH & Co. KG, and NUVO. Expansion of product portfolio by developing new products or acquisitions is a key strategy adopted by several players. For instance, in 2018, Dr. Mach GmbH & Co. KG announced the launch of its new LED 150 surgical lights, which offers superior colour rendering, a multi-lens system, along with other features. Other key players are also adopting such strategies. Edison, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Global Tomato-Flavored Beverage Market Insights, Forecast to 2025 is latest research study released by HTF MI evaluating the market, highlighting opportunities, risk side analysis, and leveraged with strategic and tactical decision-making support. The study provides information on market trends and development, drivers, capacities, technologies, and on the changing capital structure of the Global Tomato-Flavored Beverage Market. Some of the key players profiled in the study are Beijing Huiyuan Beverage Food Group, Shaanxi Jintai Biological Engineering Co., Ltd., Hunan NutraMax Inc., Rita Food & Drink Co., Ltd., TISOK LLC, KIZIKLI GIDA SANAYI VE TICARET ANONIM SIRKETI , NAM VIET PHAT FOOD CO.,LTD , Foshan Shuokeli Food Co., Ltd. , Nam Viet Foods & Beverage Co., LTD, TEREV FOODS LLC & Uni-President Enterprises Corporation. The global Tomato-Flavored Beverage market is valued at xx million US$ in 2018 and will reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of xx% during 2019-2025. The objectives of this study are to define, segment, and project the size of the Tomato-Flavored Beverage market based on company, product type, end user and key regions. This report studies the global market size of Tomato-Flavored Beverage in key regions like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Central & South America and Middle East & Africa, focuses on the consumption of Tomato-Flavored Beverage in these regions. This research report categorizes the global Tomato-Flavored Beverage market by top players/brands, region, type and end user. This report also studies the global Tomato-Flavored Beverage market status, competition landscape, market share, growth rate, future trends, market drivers, opportunities and challenges, sales channels and distributors. Tomato-Flavored Beverage Market Overview: If you are involved in the Tomato-Flavored Beverage industry or intend to be, then this study will provide you comprehensive outlook. It's vital you keep your market knowledge up to date segmented by Retail & Catering, , Pure & Mixed and major players. If you have a different set of players/manufacturers according to geography or needs regional or country segmented reports we can provide customization according to your requirement. Enquire for customization in Report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/1829093-global-tomato-flavored-beverage-market Tomato-Flavored Beverage Market: Demand Analysis & Opportunity Outlook 2023 Research study is to define market sizes of various segments & countries in previous years and to forecast the values to the next 5-8 years. The report is designed to comprise each qualitative and quantitative elements of the industry facts including: market share, market size (value and volume 2012-17, and forecast to 2023) with admire to each of the areas and countries concerned inside the examination. Furthermore, the report additionally caters the detailed statistics about the vital elements which includes drivers & restraining factors which will define the future growth of the market. Furthermore, the years considered for the study are as follows: Historical year 2013-2017 Base year 2018 Forecast period** 2018 to 2023 [** unless otherwise stated] **Moreover, it will also include the opportunities available in micro markets for stakeholders to invest, detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product services of key players. The designated segments and sub-section of the market are explained below: The Study is segmented by following Product Type: , Pure & Mixed Major applications/end-users industry are as follows: Retail & Catering Some of the key Manufacturers Involved in the Market are Beijing Huiyuan Beverage Food Group, Shaanxi Jintai Biological Engineering Co., Ltd., Hunan NutraMax Inc., Rita Food & Drink Co., Ltd., TISOK LLC, KIZIKLI GIDA SANAYI VE TICARET ANONIM SIRKETI , NAM VIET PHAT FOOD CO.,LTD , Foshan Shuokeli Food Co., Ltd. , Nam Viet Foods & Beverage Co., LTD, TEREV FOODS LLC & Uni-President Enterprises Corporation You can get free access to samples from the report here: https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/1829093-global-tomato-flavored-beverage-market For each region, market size and end users are analyzed as well as segment markets by types, applications and companies. If opting for the Global version of Tomato-Flavored Beverage Market analysis is provided for major regions as follows: - North America (USA, Canada and Mexico) - Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy) - Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia) - South America (Brazil, Argentina, Columbia etc.) - Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa) Buy this research report @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=1829093 Key Answers Captured in Study are Which geography would have better demand for product/services? What are the strategies adopted by big players in the regional market? Which country would see the steep rise in CAGR & year-on-year (Y-O-Y) growth? What is the current & expected market size in next five years? What is the market feasibility for long term investment? What opportunity the country would offer for existing and new players in the Tomato-Flavored Beverage market? What is risk involved for suppliers in the geography? What factors would drive the demand for the product/service in near future? What is the impact analysis of various factors in the Global Tomato-Flavored Beverage market growth? What are the recent trends in the regional market and how successful they are? Read Detailed Index of full Research Study at @ https://www.htfmarketreport.com/reports/1829093-global-tomato-flavored-beverage-market There are 15 Chapters to display the Global Tomato-Flavored Beverage market. Chapter 1, About Executive Summary to describe Definition, Specifications and Classification of Global Tomato-Flavored Beverage market, Applications [Retail & Catering], Market Segment by Regions North America, United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Russia, Central & South America, Brazil, Rest of Central & South America, Middle East & Africa, Turkey, GCC Countries, Egypt & South Africa; Chapter 2, objective of the study. Chapter 3, to display Research methodology and techniques. Chapter 4 and 5, to show the Overall Market Analysis, segmentation analysis, characteristics; Chapter 6 and 7, to show the Market size, share and forecast; Five forces analysis (bargaining Power of buyers/suppliers), Threats to new entrants and market condition; Chapter 8 and 9, to show analysis by regional segmentation[North America, United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia-Pacific, China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Russia, Central & South America, Brazil, Rest of Central & South America, Middle East & Africa, Turkey, GCC Countries, Egypt & South Africa ], comparison, leading countries and opportunities; Regional Marketing Type Analysis, Supply Chain Analysis Chapter 10, focus on identifying the key industry influencer's, overview of decision framework accumulated through Industry experts and strategic decision makers; Chapter 11 and 12, Market Trend Analysis, Drivers, Challenges by consumer behaviour, Marketing Channels and demand & supply. Chapter 13 and 14, describe about the vendor landscape (classification and Market Positioning) Chapter 15, deals with Global Tomato-Flavored Beverage Market sales channel, distributors, traders, dealers, Research Findings and Conclusion, appendix and data source. Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter wise section or region wise report version like North America, Europe or Asia or Oceania [Australia and New Zealand]. Valley Cottage, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/08/2019 -- Future Market Insights delivers key insights on the global zinc chloride market in its latest report titled 'Zinc Chloride market: Global Industry Analysis 2013-2017 and Opportunity Assessment, 2018-2028.' The long-term outlook of the global zinc chloride market remains positive and its market value is expected to increase at a CAGR of 4.6 % during the forecast period (2018 2028). On the basis of grade type, the global zinc chloride market is dominated by the high purity grade segment, which accounts for ~43.6% of the global zinc chloride demand. The segment is estimated register a moderate CAGR over the forecast period and the demand for the segment is mostly driven by the chemical industry. Battery grade zinc chloride is widely used in the manufacturing of dry cell batteries. Technical grade and commercial grade zinc chloride segments are projected to witness high acceptability and growth rates in the latter half of the forecast period as these grades are used in electronic and other industrial applications. Global sales of zinc chloride is valued at US$ 270.9 Mn by the end of 2018 witnessing Y-o-Y growth of 4.6% over 2017. China accounts for a value share of ~21.9% of the global zinc chloride market in 2018 end and it is anticipated to register significant demand for zinc chloride from chemical and agriculture industries. Request For Report Sample @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-6541 Zinc chloride or ZnCl2 is a deliquescent salt, which is white in color and forms acidic solutions in polar organic solvents such as ether, acetone, water and ethanol. Zinc chloride is hygroscopic in nature and thus, must be kept away from water vapors and moisture sources. By adding zinc chloride and acetone, a neutral solution of zinc chloride is prepared. Increasing demand for zinc chloride from chemical and textile industries can be attributed to the growth in usage in these industries. Other than this, zinc chloride also finds a number of other applications in various end-use industries such as in galvanizing, tinning of fluxes and soldering. It can also be used as an odor controller, due to which its demand is increasing in the market. The reaction of sulfide with zinc chloride minimizes the release of H2S gas in waste water treatment facilities, thereby aiding in odor control. Zinc chloride is used in the rubber industry for the vulcanization of rubber. That apart, dissolution of cellulosic fibers in scrap is done with the help of zinc chloride. Zinc chloride is also used for various other applications such as textile finishing, liquid fertilizers, organic synthesis, dry cell batteries and wood preservatives, among others. However, the global zinc chloride market is projected to face numerous challenges as zinc chloride is toxic in nature and can cause skin & eye burns. Zinc chloride and water, on contact with eyes, can cause permanent damage. Such factors are further expected to hamper the growth of the zinc chloride market. One of the recent trends observed in the global zinc chloride market includes the use of zinc chloride as a catalyst in the automotive industry. Segmentation Analysis On the basis of grade type, the high purity grade segment is projected to remain dominant throughout the forecast period with a share of ~43.6% by the end 2018 On the basis of application type, the global zinc chloride market is projected to be dominated by the dry cell batteries segment, which is expected to register a CAGR of 4.5% over the forecast period. However, the catalyst segment is expected to witness a higher growth rate On the basis of end use, the use of zinc chloride in the chemical industry is projected to remain the relatively larger end use segment; however, other applications such agriculture and electronics are expected to expand at relatively moderate growth rates Regional Analysis From a regional perspective, China is projected to dominate the global zinc chloride market throughout the forecast period. The region is a production base for a number of global manufacturers and also, exports to Asian and other countries. North America also holds a significant share of ~20% in the global zinc chloride market with the U.S. representing the major market demand. India is projected to be a higher growth country with significant growth opportunities in the latter half of the forecast period. ASEAN, Poland, Brazil and other countries are majorly dependent on the import of zinc chloride from the U.S., China and Europe. Therefore, a number of manufacturers are planning to strategically invest in expanding their sales and production footprint in the region. Latin America and MEA are projected to remain low volume high growth regions over the forecast period. Request For Report Table of Content (TOC): https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/askus/rep-gb-6541 Vendor Insights The report highlights some of the top companies operating in the global zinc chloride market such Zaclon LLC, Flaurea Chemicals, Vijaychem Industries, FInOrIC, American Elements, Pan-Continental Chemical Co., Global Chemical Co. Ltd., TIB Chemicals, S.A. Lipmes, Haihua Industry and Yanggu Zhongtian Zinc Industry Co. Ltd., among others. BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese space experts have strengthened international exchanges in the latest achievements in exploring the moon, Mars, Jupiter, asteroids and the deeper cosmos. While developing the Chang'e-5 and Chang'e-6 lunar probes and China's first Mars probe, China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) is also pushing forward space programs such as the planned unmanned lunar research station, and probing asteroids, Mars, the Jovian system and the edge of the solar system, as well as interplanetary exploration, said experts from CAST. They were speaking to more than 370 experts from both at home and abroad in Beijing at a recent international symposium on lunar and deep space exploration. Deng Zongquan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and a professor with the Harbin Institute of Technology, introduced many creative ideas at the symposium on designing future probes and rovers for exploring the moon and Mars. The design of the future lunar and Mars rovers could be different from the six-wheeled lunar rovers, Yutu and Yutu-2, already sent onto the moon, Deng said. Four-wheeled and eight-wheeled rovers also have advantages. For instance, the eight-wheeled rover could have a better carrying capacity and be used in building lunar scientific research station, Deng said. Chinese experts are also developing drilling technology and research on ice detection methods on the moon, he said. China recently unveiled its plan to explore an asteroid and a comet, inviting scientists around the world to participate. The mission will involve exploring a near-Earth asteroid, named 2016HO3, and a main-belt comet, named 133P, according to the China National Space Administration. Huang Jiangchuan, a researcher from CAST and chief designer of China's Chang'e-2 probe, said China's first asteroid probe is expected to be launched before 2025. He said the scientific objective of the exploration includes studying the formulation and evolution of the solar system, the role of near-Earth asteroid and main-belt comet impacts on the origin of life, and the solar system small bodies dynamics formation. The target 2016HO3 has a very close relationship with Earth and is called as a "mini moon" or a quasi satellite of the earth, said Huang. "Where is it from? What's its relationship with the earth and moon? Those are questions we want to know," he said. The second detection target of the mission, the comet 133P, probably contains water based on observation on Earth, and the exploration will help study its volatilization mechanism. "We are facing great technological challenges in exploring asteroids and comets due to the little understanding about their detailed features and high uncertainty," he added. "Compared with Japan, Europe and the United States, China is a latecomer in the exploration of asteroids and comets. We need to go faster, and we hope the mission will have multiple goals and can satisfy scientists' curiosity," said Huang. Over the past few years, CAST has been working on the mission design, and key technologies of asteroid exploration through self-funded projects, Huang said. "Due to the technology complexity, vast investment and high risks, CAST is willing to cooperate with other institutes in various ways and jointly conduct international deep space exploration for the benefit of humanity," said Huang. "There are so many small bodies like asteroids and comets in space, but only a few have been detected. The exploration could help us prevent threat from them to the earth, as well as exploit their resources," Huang said. Athena Coustenis, an astrophysicist from the Paris Observatory, said at the symposium that European scientists have a strong interest in collaborating with China on the asteroid exploration mission. Hong Kong: Govt refutes US report The Government today said amending local extradition laws can enhance the Hong Kong Special Administrative Regions capability in dealing with fugitives of serious criminal offences and makes the city a better partner in the international fight against crime. It was responding to media enquiries on the United States-China Economic & Security Review Commissions report on proposed amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance and the Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Ordinance. The Government said it attaches utmost importance to the rule of law and judicial independence, which are the core values of the HKSAR. It said the HKSARs regime on surrender of fugitives makes reference to the guidelines and model prescribed by the United Nations and is fully underpinned by human rights protection principles that are prevailing in practising regimes in many jurisdictions around the world. The HKSAR has signed long-term surrender of fugitive offenders agreements with 20 jurisdictions including the US, the Government said. All existing human rights and procedural safeguards provided for in the current legislation will also be maintained under case-based arrangements, it said. If passed, the amendments will protect business activities from the threat of crime and be conducive to the business environment in Hong Kong, the Government added. This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Two international students from the International Exchange College of Inner Mongolia Normal University make shadow puppets at the Inner Mongolia Exhibition Museum in Hohhot, capital of north Chinas Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, April 25, 2019. A total of 32 international students from Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Laos, Cambodia, Pakistan and other countries participated in this cultural activity. Exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations will consolidate consensus for development and provide spiritual support for the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, a Pakistani scholar told Peoples Daily during a recent interview ahead of the upcoming Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations. Syed Hasan Javed, Director of Chinese Studies Centre at the National University of Science and Technology in Pakistan, expressed his expectations toward the conference, saying that dialogues among civilizations help remove barriers, strengthen mutual understanding and further enhance mutual trust among countries and peoples. During the interview, the director quoted Chinese President Xi Jinpings remarks that civilization becomes colorful because of exchanges, and abundant because of mutual learning, saying Xis words carry the profound significance of exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. In the era of globalization, no country is able to develop without cooperation, said Javed, adding that every county will benefit from regional development promoted by the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative. Building a platform for the exchanges among Asian civilizations is quite necessary, the director remarked. It will protect the diversity of civilizations in the region and boost inclusive development of global civilization, he said, noting that mutual understanding and mutual respect are the foundation for close relationships between countries and civilizations. International students from the International Exchange College of Inner Mongolia Normal University play shadow puppets at the Inner Mongolia Exhibition Museum in Hohhot, capital of north Chinas Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, April 25, 2019. A total of 32 international students from Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Laos, Cambodia, Pakistan and other countries participated in this cultural activity. Javed believes that strengthening dialogues among civilizations is of huge significance for the building of a community with a shared future for mankind - a grand vision that points direction for the future development of human society. Protectionism and unilateralism will never end well as they do no good to the common prosperity of the human society, and win-win cooperation is what all countries must pursue to achieve development, Javed said. China enjoys a long history and rich culture. The people-oriented spirit, as well as the worship of peace and sound relations with other countries upheld by the traditional Chinese culture is what the world must go after in order to achieve development. They also conform to the trend of time for common development, Javed said. Building a community with a shared future for mankind embodies the Chinese philosophy of making the world a harmonious one, he added. In the past six years, the Belt and Road construction has made remarkable achievements in infrastructure, and greatly promoted the economic and social development of relevant countries, Javed noted. During the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, President Xi called to build bridges for exchanges and mutual learning among different cultures, deepen cultural cooperation and facilitate multi-faceted people-to-people exchanges. Speaking of Xis remarks, Javed said that cultural and people-to-people exchanges will play a more important role as the Belt and Road construction moves toward high-quality development. On one hand, cultural exchanges can improve the inclusiveness and understanding and clear the barriers caused by misunderstandings; on the other hand, such exchanges will create more business opportunities so that the Belt and Road construction can better serve the people and bring more sense of gain to them, Javed said. As the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the industry gear up for the Marine Environment Protection Committee 74 (MEPC 74) meeting next week increasingly diverse groups are putting pressure on shipping to act now on emissions. In less than 48 hours press releases from the Global Catholic Climate Movement, the UK Student Climate Network, and the Siren Troupe, have landed in the Seatrade Maritime News inbox, all targeting for shipping to take more action on emissions. Ahead of the IMO meeting the Vatican-convened conference The Common Good and Our Common Seas was convened in Copenhagen. At the conference Catholic institutions in countries with major connections to shipping announced their divestment from fossil fuels. These include institutions in Panama - home to the Panama Canal and one of the worlds largest ship registry, the Philippines the largest supplier seafarers, and Greece the largest shipowning nation. Divestment from Catholic institutions signals a high standard of ambition for the IMO meeting, which begins 13 May, a statement from the Global Catholic Climate Movement said. On Tuesday morning Noga Levy-Rapoport, 17, organiser of the UK school strike movement on climate change was to address was to address delegates at the IMO as the global school student activist group turned its attention this week on the shipping industry. Levy-Rapoport said: The message from young people is that we must listen to scientists and act now. We cant afford delays. That includes the shipping industry and it includes aviation. Delegates at the IMO have a responsibility to represent their countries futures, not just corporations concerned about short-term profits. With other members of the UK Student Climate Network, Levy-Rapoport is a core organiser of monthly climate strikes. Also on Tuesday morning at 8am a group of professional dancers performed 'Body Haunt: a warning signal to shipping Industry' outside the IMO headquarters in London. A press release described the targets set by the IMO last year as feeble and called for an immediate slowing down of ships. 'We demand the delegates of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) to immediately vote for slowing down the speed of the ships, said the artistic director Nicole Caodie, To diminish the catastrophic effects of climate change. What the call from all three of these very different organisations for urgent action on emissions and climate change by shipping illustrate is that the industry is going to come under increasing pressure from all quarters to act both quickly and decisively. A failure to be seen to do so will only result in increasing pressure and shipping being placed ever more in the public spotlight on its record on emissions be that fairly or not. The shuttle tankers, being built at Samsung Heavy Industries, will all be equipped with a new innovative technology developed by Wartsila in cooperation with Teekay, to achieve the zero VOC emissions. It is gratifying that this innovative new technology developed in Norway has led to trade. This project includes many Norwegian subcontractors and contributes to the restructuring of the Norwegian economy, value creation as well as keeping employment in Norway, said Torbjrn Re Isaksen, Norwegian Minister of Trade and Industry. The $165.5m financing is backed by the Norwegian government, Export Credit Norway and GIEK (Norwegian Guarantee Institute for Export Credits). The financing is part of a larger syndicate involving several commercial banks and a foreign export credit agency. In addition, Enova, which contributes to Norways transition towards a low emission society, has granted subsidies of NOK133m ($15.2m) to the four shuttle tankers. Back in 2003, Norway had already imposed restrictions on VOC emissions as the environmental impact is significant. The new VOC recovery system developed by Wartsila reduces VOC emissions by up to 100%, converts the emissions into liquid gas, and feeds the gas into a VOC fuel tank as a secondary fuel for the vessels. This provides an annual fuel bunkering reduction of up to 3,000 tonnes of LNG. Combined with other energy efficiency features of the vessels, the total reduced bunkering requirement and CO2 reduction amounts to 50% compared to the existing fleet. Additionally, NOx and SOx emissions are reduced by more than 80% and 95%, respectively. The shuttle tankers are scheduled to be delivered in 2019-2020. Ingvild Saether, president and ceo of Teekay Offshore Group, commented: These vessels will be the most environmentally friendly shuttle tankers ever built. What makes me particularly proud is that bunkering requirements and CO2 emissions will be reduced by approximately 50%, thereby reducing the environmental footprint of our operations significantly. Through the professional response of the crew and the coordinated support from the navy of Equatorial Guinea and Spain, the violent hijacking has been ended and the crew was safely freed, Boskalis said in a statement. After unloading a cargo in the waters of Equatorial Guinea, the Blue Marlin departed last Sunday with destination Malta. On Sunday afternoon, the ship was boarded by several armed pirates. By acting quickly and professionally, all 20 crew members were able to secure themselves in the vessel's citadel. Upon alerting the local authorities of Equatorial Guinea and the NATO mission MDAT-GoG (Maritime Domain Awareness for Trade - Gulf of Guinea), two helicopters were immediately mobilised from Equatorial Guinea, followed by a Navy vessel of Equatorial Guinea and one from the Spanish Navy, part of the MDAT-GoG mission. Monday morning the Blue Marlin was boarded and fully searched by the navy of Equatorial Guinea and Spain. No pirates were found and the crew was freed from the citadel. All the crew members are in good health. The pirates shot several times during their time aboard the Blue Marlin and caused substantial material damage on the bridge, preventing the ship from being sailable. The vessel is currently approximately 40 miles offshore Equatorial Guinea, in international waters. "I want to express my compliments to our crew for their extremely professional and adequate actions in this life-threatening situation. I am extremely grateful and in particular thankful to the navy of Equatorial Guinea for their quick and decisive response, as well as to the Spanish navy for their assistance via MDAT-GoG. Because of their actions, this hijacking could be ended quickly and our colleagues were brought into safety," said Peter Berdpwski, ceo Boskalis. Press Release May 8, 2019 ANGARA: PH HISTORY, CULTURE INCOMPLETE SANS MUSLIM CONTRIBUTION Reelectionist Senator Sonny Angara renewed his call for the full implementation of a law requiring all schools nationwide to teach the history of Filipino Muslims and indigenous peoples (IPs), saying a study of Philippine history and culture would be incomplete without their mention. "As we allow the Bangsamoro people to fulfill their dreams and aspirations through the establishment of a new autonomous political entity, it is especially important to look back on their history and to acknowledge and appreciate Filipino Muslim contributions," the lawmaker said on Tuesday when he brought his "Alagang Angara" campaign to Cotabato City, the seat of power of the newly created Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Angara made the call as the nation celebrates May as the National Heritage Month, which aims to promote consciousness, respect and love for the cultural heritage among Filipinos. This year's theme, "Mga Pinuno para sa Pamana" (Leaders for Heritage), serves as a challenge to every Filipino to take the lead in preserving and promoting our heritage. Republic Act 10908 or the Integrated History Act of 2016, which Angara principally authored, mandates the teaching of history, culture and identity of IPs and Filipino Muslims in both basic and higher education in the country. "The history, culture and identity of Filipino Muslims and IPs should be integrated in the formulation of the curriculum for the study of Philippine history, including the writing, printing and publication of textbooks and other reading materials," Angara said, citing a provision in RA 10908. Angara noted that the Department of Education is currently implementing the law, but only in select schools, mostly in Mindanao. He expressed hope that the government would be able to fully enforce the law in all schools nationwide, starting this incoming academic year. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Government, Angara also co-sponsored RA 11054, also known as the Bangsamoro Organic Law, which paved the way for the establishment of the BARMM replacing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). RA 11054--a realization of the long peace negotiations between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front--was overwhelmingly ratified by the Bangsamoro people during a two-part plebiscite held early this year. The BARMM is envisioned as a political entity that would realize the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people for genuine self-determination under a ministerial form of government and ensure autonomy far more than what the ARMM provided. It is seen as a solution to the problems that the ARMM failed to address, such as poverty and unstable peace and order situation. STATEMENT OF SENATOR WIN GATCHALIAN ON THE ALLEGED PROLIFERATION OF CHINESE-ONLY BUSINESSES I have always maintained that what should be exclusively for the Filipino should be for the Filipino. A number of our laws are in place as safeguards against the encroachment of foreigners on the market space for domestic businesses and enterprises wholly-owned by Filipino citizens. Republic Act (RA) No. 7042 or the Foreign Investments Act of 1991 mandates that small and medium-sized domestic market enterprises -- including restaurants and the like -- with paid-in equity capital less than US$200,000 are reserved to Philippine nationals. RA 8762 or the Retail Trade Liberalization Act of 2000, on the other hand, categorically states that retail enterprises like convenience or variety stores with paid-up capital of less than US$2,500,000 shall be reserved exclusively for Filipino citizens and corporations wholly owned by Filipino citizens. Kung mapatunayan man na may mga businesses na pagmamay-ari ng mga dayuhan na lumalabag sa mga batas na ito ay dapat lamang na kumilos agad ang mga concerned government agencies upang mapasara agad ang mga ito. We need to protect the interests of both Filipino consumers and Filipino business owners. Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Tilt Renewables says it expects to execute an off-take agreement for the 130-megawatt wind farm it plans at Waverley within weeks. The Melbourne-based developer has been in talks with Genesis Energy on the southern Taranaki project since October. Today Tilt said the investment grade off-take contract and the pricing certainty provided will underpin a debt package for the project. Credible contractors have been shortlisted for the project and an investment decision is expected in the December quarter. With Waverley wind farm project progressing towards an investment decision in CY2019 and other near-term opportunities currently in the market, the Tilt Renewables board has determined it is in the best interests of all shareholders not to pay a final dividend and to retain the cash within the business for anticipated project equity requirements. Tilt shares last traded at $2.36 and are up about 4 percent so far this year. The company, majority-owned by Infratil and Mercury NZ, has a pipeline of wind and solar development projects across Australia and New Zealand. It commissioned the 54 MW Salt Creek wind farm in Victoria last year and in late 2020 raised A$260 million from shareholders for the 336 MW Dundonnell project it is aiming to commission in Victoria. Chief executive Deion Campbell says the company had hoped to have concluded its deal with Genesis by now. But he said both firms are looking for a relationship beyond Waverley and are keen to get an agreement that reduces disputation risk as much as possible. Its 20-year term also makes it one of the largest power purchase agreements in New Zealand. On the dividend, Campbell told investors that the firm is a development company and will need to manage paying dividends against its calls on shareholders for capital. Given the scale of the raising undertaken last year for Dundonnell, holding back the first-half dividend didnt really make much difference, he said. With Waverley progressing, and other potential opportunities, the board wanted to retain that equity. You shouldnt assume there is a dividend every time, Campbell said. Tilt, split out of Trustpower in 2016, earlier today reported a net profit of A$12.2 million for the year ended March 31, down 28 percent from the year before, due to higher depreciation costs since the completion of Salt Creek and the effect of changes in financial instruments. Excluding the latter, underlying net profit was A$14.2 million, against an $A9.3 million loss the year before. Revenue increased by 22 percent to A$193.3 million, reflecting higher prices and increased production. The company has five wind farms in Australia and operates the Tararua and Mahinerangi projects here. It generated 2,054 GWh of electricity in the period, 14 percent more than a year earlier and slightly ahead of long-term projections. Output was boosted by the completion of Salt Creek in July and a return to more normal wind conditions throughout the year. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and changes in financial instruments climbed 30 percent to A$134.8 million, in line with previous guidance. It has signalled ebitdaf of A$122-129 million in the current year, given the business is not expected to materially benefit from any contribution from Dundonnell until the 2021 financial year. The forecast assumes long-term average wind conditions. Tilt has built out a pipeline of almost 3,440 MW of solar, wind and battery projects to take advantage of the swing towards renewables in Australia and New Zealand. Campbell said the firm needs a range of consented projects that are ready to execute and fundable as soon as the market signals a need. Tilts strategy is to rack em and stack em and build them when we can, he said on a conference call, and will need to spend about A$7 million a year to maintain a baseline of development activity. In New Zealand, Tilt has consent for a 240 MW wind development at Kaiwera Downs near Gore and a 160 MW expansion of its Mahinerangi wind farm west of Dunedin. It is also in the very early stages of investigating a 70 MW wind project at Omamari in Northland. The site, owned by Landcorp, was previously investigated by Meridian Energy. Tilt is also thinking about options for repowering the 20-year-old first stage of its Tararua wind farm near Palmerston North. In March, Mercury announced it was proceeding with a $256 million, 119 MW wind development at Turitea, south of Tararua. Work there is due to start in August. Campbell said having a major shareholder developing its own wind farm doesnt really affect Tilt. Each firm has its own development pipeline and Mercury had been sitting on the Turitea option for some time. Output from Tilts current New Zealand wind farms is contracted to Trustpower for the operating life of the turbines. Trustpower was offered the chance to take-up the output from Waverley but felt it had sufficient wind exposure, Campbell said. Tilt has started thinking about what to do with the first stage of Tararua, commissioned in 1998. While the turbines have a design life to 20 years, they are still available 95 percent of the time and he thought 25 years was probably the right number for that earlier generation of machine. New turbines are expected to operate for 30 years. Campbell said Tararua remains one of the best wind sites in the world and could deliver a material boost if it can be repowered. That output could be offered to the market generally and Trustpower doesnt have any pre-emptive rights, he said. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. 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Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA An Afghan woman receives medical treatment at the Mirwais Regional Hospital in Kandahar, Afghanistan, May 4, 2019. The Mirwais Regional Hospital, locally known as the "Chinese Hospital", was built by China in 1974 and put into operation in 1979 on 44 acres of land in Kandahar, the largest city in the southern region as a gift to the Afghan people. The hospital is the largest health center in Afghanistan's southern region and provides almost all kinds of services to patients ranging from diagnosis of diseases to surgery of war victims, childcare and maternity. (Xinhua/Sanaullah Seiam) Changes to whistleblower legislation to make it easier for employees to report everything from bullying to fraud have been delayed. This also pushes back moves to potentially bring the private sector into a critical part of the legislation. The delay comes despite a damning Ombudsman report last month showing less than 10 percent of people know they can be protected if they report wrongdoing under the Protected Disclosures Act. State Services Minister Chris Hipkins said last year that he would report back in April on ways to beef up the act, following a six-week consultation period. Officials have summarised the comments received and are preparing preliminary advice for Minister Hipkins on the policy choices for his consideration," a spokesperson said. "They will also provide him with advice on a revised time frame. No one could say when that might be. Last year, a Cabinet committee found the current protected disclosures regime "lacks clarity and that the act is weak in a number of key areas - particularly for the private sector. Moreover, research released by the Ombudsman last month found only 9 percent of respondents had even heard of the Protected Disclosures Act - an alarmingly low number given the importance of the act for all New Zealanders, Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier said. Worse, 21 percent said they have witnessed serious wrongdoing at their workplace or previous workplaces. Only 40 percent of employees believed their jobs would be safe if they reported the wrongdoing, and 34 percent thought they would lose their job. Lower paid workers were particularly worried about job security. Victoria University professor of public administration Michael Macaulay is a leading researcher in the area. He says the existing legislation, passed in 2000, is so vague it is hard for people to know if the particular wrongdoing they want to report is covered. In particular, while the act in general covers both the private and public sectors, a key section about reporting serious wrongdoing appears to exclude private sector employees. The State Services Commission discussion document says the act provides protection if someone is exposing unlawful, corrupt or irregular use of public money or resources, but doesnt mention stealing private money. It also encourages people to blow the whistle on oppressive, improperly discriminatory or grossly negligent conduct or gross mismanagement - but only by public officials, not private sector bosses or co-workers. Macaulay was part of the team that put together the review submission from Transparency International NZ. TINZ strongly supports the inclusion of the private sector in the legislation, the submission says. From recent widely publicised cases, New Zealand society recognises the need for this support and improvement of integrity. There is no justification for the private sector being treated differently to the public sector. A cabinet paper from Hipkins dated August last year makes a similar point. Eighteen years after the acts introduction, there is a need to strengthen the obligations on private sector organisations. The act requires more of public sector organisations because there is significant public interest in uncovering serious wrongdoing in government. But there is also public interest in ensuring that New Zealand businesses and not-for-profit organisations operate with high integrity. Macaulay says another problem with the current act is that it is focused on theft and corruption, whereas a study by Victoria and some Australian universities found whistleblowers were most likely to uncover bullying, discrimination, harassment and unfair work practices. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA Lawyers in the Mainzeal case were back in court today arguing whether the $36 million penalty handed down to directors of the failed construction company, including former Prime Minister Jenny Shipley, should attract up to six years' interest. They were also trying to clarify the details for setting the compensation payment. Justice Francis Cooke left the door open for further arguments in his February ruling to allow for any "arithmetical mistakes, omissions or other errors" in setting the size of the penalty he may have made in the 178-page judgment. At today's one-day hearing at the Wellington High Court, Justice Cooke explained that he wanted to ensure there were no mistakes in his substantive decision, and avoid the need for a second trial on the quantum. The parties have lodged appeals and cross-appeals against initial findings on the directors' culpability, but haven't secured a date in the Court of Appeal. They told the judge a hearing is likely next year, meaning today's hearing will be ruled on before then. In setting penalties in the February decision, Justice Cooke took a starting point of $110.6 million owed to creditors and discounted that to get to $36 million. Of that, directors Shipley, Peter Gomm and Clive Tilby were each liable for $6 million, while principal Richard Yan could be liable for the full amount. The lawyers today argued whether the starting point was correct and if interest can be charged for the six years that creditors have been out of pocket. The company collapsed in February 2013, and interest on the money owed since then could amount to millions of dollars. The judge asked a number of questions about how to consider the time value of the money. He also questioned whether the two matters should be considered as a single proposition, and if he should simply use his discretion to set a quantum, accounting for the starting point and incorporating the present value of the funds. Mark O'Brien QC, the lawyer for the Mainzeal liquidator, accepted that he should have addressed the issue of interest in his closing statement, but said it would be normal for interest to be calculated from the date of liquidation. When challenged whether he could pursue interest on the penalty, O'Brien said he mentioned it in passing during his opening submission of the substantive hearing. David Chisholm QC, counsel for Yan, told the court that the law didn't envisage reckless trading penalties to attract interest and that previous cases applied a contribution. Jack Hodder, the QC for Shipley, Gomm and Tilby, focused on setting the starting point, saying it should have been $89 million. The lawyers also argued over the appropriate level of costs to be awarded and told the judge they would try to settle that during the lunch break. Hodder said he would deal with a separate matter relating to the directors' insurance by filing a memorandum to the court, given the issue would have wider implications than just this case. "The insurer hasn't had a chance to think about it, or take advice itself," Hodder said. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA PGG Wrightson plans to return $235 million to shareholders via a share buyback, less than previously flagged, now the sale of its seeds division to Denmark's DLF Seeds has left it flush with cash. The board intends to return 31 cents a share to investors through a pro-rated share buyback, which needs shareholder approval and sign-off by the courts. The company intends to send out detailed information in a notice of special meeting in the coming weeks. The shares last traded at 56 cents, and were trading at 64 cents before the deal was first announced in August last year. The rural services company always intended to return a portion of the proceeds to its shareholders after booking a $120 million gain on the sale of the division. DLF paid $413 million for the Wrightson unit and took on $21 million of net debt. It initially flagged a return of up to $292 million. "On settlement of the seed and grain business PGW repaid its bank facilities while the board assessed the appropriate quantum of the capital return," chair Rodger Finlay said in a statement. "Prior to making a formal recommendation to shareholders, new bank facilities will be arranged and shareholders will be provided with detailed explanatory information to assess the merits of the proposal." Chief executive Ian Glasson will leave the slimmed down business at the end of May, and be replaced by Wrightson's general manager of retail and water, Stephen Guerin. Glasson will help with a short transition and handover through to the end of his contract, the company said. Wrightson's board is still reviewing the company's structure and expects to announce any changes before the end of the financial year on June 30. The business is entering a new phase after a recent boardroom reshuffle. Finlay, David Cushing and Sarah Brown joined the board on April 30, replacing Trevor Burt, Bruce Irvine and John Nichol. Finlay said the outlook for the rest of the year was mixed, and warned that operating earnings will likely be at the lower end of the $25-30 million guidance. "Farmer hesitancy in the cattle livestock market due to the unusual season and Mycoplasma bovis will continue to be a risk factor for the business, particularly during the remainder of May and June, which are important contributors to the earnings of our livestock business," he said. (BusinessDesk) Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: 24th December 2021 Morning Report Goodman Property Trust (NZX: GMT) GMT to develop North Shore facility for NZ Post 23rd December 2021 Morning Report SkyCity Entertainment Group Limited (NZX: SKC) EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GIG Spark New Zealand Limited (NZX: SPK) Spark to take full ownership of Connect 8 22nd December 2021 Morning Report Precinct Properties New Zealand Limited (NZX: PCT) Wynyard Quarter Stage 3 Commenced AMP Limited (NZX: AMP) Announces Delisting from the NZX Main Board 21st December 2021 Morning Report Greenfern Industries Limited (NZX: GFI) Updates on NTA New Delhi: Essar Steel's majority shareholder Essar Steel Asia Holdings (ESAHL) on Tuesday moved the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) seeking the rejection of ArcelorMittal's bid to buy out the company. "Lakshmi Mittal and Arcelor Mittal India Ltd (AM) had conspired to suppress vital facts and misled the Committee of Creditors, the Supreme Court and the appellate tribunal into believing that Lakshmi Mittal and Arcellor Mittal had ceased to have any business association with his brothers Pramod Mittal and Vinod Mittal and their companies," Essar Steel said in a statement. The Prashant Ruia-led ESAHL, in its application, cited a sworn affidavit filed by Arcellor Mittal on October 17, 2018, which said that there had been no business association between Lakshmi Mittal and his brothers and their companies for more than 20 years, and that Lakshmi Mittal or Arcelor has no shareholding in any of the companies where his brothers are promoters, including GPI Textiles, Balasore Alloys and Gontermann Piepers. ESAHL, which holds 72 per cent stake in Essar Steel, presented documents which show that as late as September 30, 2018, Lakshmi Mittal was a co-promoter of one Navoday Consultants along with his brothers Pramod and Vinod Mittal, and Navoday was in turn a promoter of GPI Textiles, Balasore Alloys and Gontermann Piepers. ESAHL said: "These facts make it clear that Arcellor Mittal has suppressed and concealed from the CoC and all Courts that its promoter Lakshmi Mittal continued to have business relations with his brothers Pramod Mittal and Vinod Mittal, and accordingly AM was ineligible to submit a resolution plan under Section 29A of the IBC." The statement noted that Gontermann Peipers and GPI Textiles are classified as non-performing assets (NPAs or bad loans) and owing to the association of Lakshmi Mittal with these companies, AM would be a related party of these companies, making it ineligible to bid under the provisions of the Insolvency and Bakruptcy Code (IBC). ESAHL had offered Rs 54,389 crore to the lenders of the company. This proposal was rejected by the Committee of Creditors (CoC). The Delhi-based appellate tribunal had approved Arcellor's bid of Rs 42,000 crore on March 18, dismissing the Essar promoters Ruias' plea against the approval to the bid given by the NCLT's Ahmedabad bench. The long-drawn resolution process hit another roadblock with the Supreme Court last month stopping ArcelorMittal from making payment to lenders to buy the insolvent steel entity, stretching, thereby, the billionaire Lakshmi Mittal's wait to have a foothold in his home country. A special ceremony was held to honor 156 Chinese students who recently graduated from two universities in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan. The colorful event was organized by Pakistan's Chinese Students Association in collaboration with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China. It was the first ever graduation ceremony for Chinese overseas students in Pakistan. The ambassador of the People's Republic of China in Pakistan, Yao Jing, Chairman of Pakistan-China Institute Mushahid Hussain Sayed and former Ambassador in China, Riaz Khokhar, participated in the event alongside a number of students. The graduation ceremony was hosted in Chinese, English & Arabic. Certificates and shields were distributed to all 156 Chinese overseas students as four of them completed Ph.D. programs. Most of the students graduated in the subjects of English, Arabic and Urdu Languages. Addressing the graduation ceremony, Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing congratulated the students on their incredible achievement and success. He said that these students were the future of China and during their stay in Pakistan they had developed friendly relations with Pakistani students, which he noted would be helpful for future communication and development between Pakistan and China. The ambassador also advised the Chinese students to keep Pakistan in their hearts. "You stayed in this county and studied. You have friends here. Now you should work hard to promote the friendship between the two countries," Yao Jing said. Chairman of Pak-China Institute Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed said it was a great pleasure to see the first graduation ceremony for Chinese students. Congratulating the students, he asked them to carry not only the torch of knowledge, but also friendship and harmony between Pakistan and China. Chinese students and children also performed songs and dance routines during the graduation ceremony. United Nations Security Council open debate on "Investing in Peace: Delivering Quality Training and Capacity Building to Improve Safety and Security and Performance of UN Peacekeepers" is held at the UN headquarters in New York, on May 7, 2019. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Tuesday that training is a necessary and strategic investment in peacekeeping. (Xinhua/Li Muzi) UNITED NATIONS, May 7 (Xinhua) -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Tuesday that training is a necessary and strategic investment in peacekeeping. "Training is a necessary and strategic investment in peacekeeping, and is a shared responsibility between member states and the Secretariat," the UN chief told the Security Council open debate on "Investing in Peace: Delivering Quality Training and Capacity Building to Improve Safety and Security and Performance of UN Peacekeepers." "Training saves lives," the secretary-general noted. "Our peacekeepers are deployed to increasingly complex and often hostile environments," he said, adding that "training prepares them for their vital peacekeeping tasks and improves their performance." "Improved performance reduces fatalities," Guterres said. Talking about the Secretariat's progress in fulfilling its commitment to training and capacity building, Guterres said that "on safety and security, we continue to take forward the Action Plan to Improve the Security of UN Peacekeepers." "In the five high-risk missions -- MONUSCO, UNAMID, UNMISS, MINUSCA and MINUSMA -- we have conducted training support and assessment visits," he said, adding that "we are also instituting casualty evacuation training, stress testing and crisis management exercises in these five missions." The September 2018 Declaration of Shared Commitments on UN Peacekeeping Operations, endorsed by 151 member states and four regional organizations, recognized the importance of training for performance and for safety and security. The declaration included a commitment by member states to provide well-trained and well-equipped uniformed personnel and to support the effective development and delivery of peacekeeping training, including pre-deployment preparation of personnel and capabilities, and the existing human rights screening policy. Tourists enjoy the scenery at the Zhangye National Geopark (Photo/Chinanews.com) 23 Chinese provinces and municipalities have released statistics on their respective tourism performance during the 4-day Labor Day Holiday, with 15 reporting revenue of over 10 billion yuan ($1.45 billion), including Sichuan, Anhui, Guizhou, Hunan, Hubei, Jiangxi and Henan. During the holiday, which started from May 1 and ended on May 4, a total of 195 million domestic trips were made across the country, up 13.7 percent from the previous year. These trips generated total revenue of 117.67 billion yuan, up 16.1 percent from the same period last year. As the only province whose tourism revenue exceeded 30 billion yuan, Sichuan ranked first among the 15 provinces and municipalities. Jiangxi, Henan and Chongqing saw tourism revenue of over 20 billion yuan, and Guangdong generated 10 billion yuan for the first time. Nine provinces received over 30 million tourists during the holiday, including Sichuan and Shaanxi, whom both welcomed more than 40 million visitors. Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, remained a major contributor to the provinces tourism achievements. A total of 13.35 million trips were made to the city, generating revenue of over 21.2 billion yuan. The capital of Shaanxi province, Xian, was also a driver of the provinces tourism revenue. 13.02 million tourists visited the ancient capital, and the city saw tourism revenue of 6.63 billion yuan. 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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(0x7f3fedb8efd8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fedd18180)', '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(0x7f3fedb8efd8)') 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(0x7f3fedd18180)') 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(0x7f3fedb9a6e8)') 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(0x7f3fedd18180)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fedd18180)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fed258d40)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fedd18c60)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fedd18c60)') 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: 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: 28:
29: ... 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(0x7f3fed897840)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fed8540c8)', '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(0x7f3fed897840)') 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(0x7f3fed8540c8)') 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(0x7f3fed8b46e8)') 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(0x7f3fed8540c8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fed8540c8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fed259268)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fed897ae0)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fed897ae0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 Guest Commentary By Jamie Liew and Shauna Labman Canada is celebrating a milestone the 40th anniversary of Canadas private refugee sponsorship regime that has resettled 327,000 refugees. But alongside this record of welcome, some refugees are facing a closed door. Canadians most recently helped resettle thousands of Syrian refugees. Indeed, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has welcomed refugees at our airports and the government promoted Syrian resettlement with the hashtag #refugeeswelcome. This celebration is in stark contrast to the federal governments omnibus budget bill tabled recently. Embedded in the 392-page document are troubling changes to our inland refugee determination system. Significantly, a new ground of ineligibility for protection is added to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act claimants who have made a claim for refugee protection in another country will be ineligible to make a claim in Canada. That means many refugee claimants will be denied access to Canada without having an opportunity to tell their story and without having their claim heard by Canadas Immigration and Refugee Board. Some people may never be heard. Canada has an obligation under the Refugee Convention and the Convention against Torture to not only treat all refugee claimants equally but to hear them out. The Supreme Court of Canada held in the 1985 Singh decision that every refugee claimant has the right to be heard in an oral hearing. We celebrated this decision on its April 4 anniversary, now marked as Refugee Rights Day in Canada. Less than a week later, the government introduced a budget bill that tries to strip away that right. The government says we should be comforted by the fact that claimants will have access to a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA), which examines whether someone would be returned to a situation of torture or other risks. But this isnt the same as a full hearing at the Immigration and Refugee Board. PRRA applications are paper-based and an immigration officer conducts an interview only if the officer deems it necessary. And not all claimants will be told about the PRRA. Some people approaching our official ports of entry only get a PRRA when they ask for it. And even if they do know about it and get one, the acceptance rate is extremely low; 97 per cent of all PRRA applications in 2018 were rejected. All Canadians would agree that we need to manage the border and the influx of migrants crossing it. But we shouldnt do that by slamming the door shut, violating peoples Charter and international rights, hoping that this will deter people. People are going to come to our borders no matter what the law says. Managing the border in an efficient and humanitarian way means allowing people to come to official ports of entry to be processed. We have a well-oiled system. Why turn our backs on it now? Our refugee determination system through the Immigration and Refugee Board is considered the gold standard all over the world. Lets use it. The government wants to turn back people who enter from safe countries like the United States. But the U.S. refugee determination system is very different from Canadas. Former U.S. attorney general Jeff Sessions issued a decision foreclosing people from making refugee claims based on domestic violence or gender-related persecution, for example. This denies protection to many people who would obtain protection in Canada. Children were separated from parents and put into detention in the U.S. People are being prosecuted for entering the U.S. outside of official ports of entry and are being detained while they wait for their refugee claims to be assessed. Why do we want to delegate our refugee determinations to a country that isnt respecting basic human rights of refugee claimants? We cant allow the Canadian government to use joyful images of deserving refugees arriving at airports and 40th-anniversary celebrations to imply that only resettled refugees are legitimate. Doing good deeds through the resettlement program should not provide us with moral comfort in slackening our commitment to refugees coming across our borders. We should not focus on the route by which refugees come to us or how they ask us for protection. A refugee is a refugee. Jamie Liew is a refugee lawyer and an associate law professor at the University of Ottawa. Shauna Labman is an assistant law professor at the University of Manitoba. Few politicians let alone prominent world leaders tend to run the gauntlet of quoting cheesy phrases from films when making a major speech, fearing derision and ridicule. But when Narendra Modi began an address with a line from a Bollywood blockbuster, he struck gold. Hows the josh? the Indian prime minister asked in his speech at the National Museum of Indian Cinema in Mumbai in January. The audience clapped in delight, recognising the line (josh means passion or zeal) from last years hit film, Uri: The Surgical Strike. The film is a dramatised account of Indias 2016 military action in Pakistan-administered Kashmir following a militant attack on an army base. The film has been called patriotic by some and propaganda by others. As Indians go to the polls, the past few weeks has seen a debate on whether Bollywood has become a partisan supporter of Modi and the government. It wasnt just Uri, whose director, Aditya Dhar, said he was honouring the army rather than Modi. Theres also the group of Bollywood stars who flew on a private jet in January for a meeting with Modi, later posting selfies that attracted many followers and comments. Another story that fed into the debate concerned a Modi biopic, PM Narendra Modi. The trailer provoked criticism that the film was hagiography. It had been due for release on 5 April at the height of the campaign, but the Election Commission of India stalled its release after objections from the opposition Congress party. These events led to a flurry of comments from critics, with some alleging that Bollywood is playing a leading role in helping Modi get a second term. Influential film critic Rajeev Masand told Reuters: You can clearly say some of these films are propaganda films. There is no confusion on the agenda there. Another critic Shubhra Gupta told Time: It is all about working the optics and colonising the minds of the audience. A narrative is being built clearly, smartly and very insidiously. Writing in the Hindustan Times, columnist Smruti Koppikar said: Bollywoods participation in BJPs [Bharatiya Janata party, which is led by Modi] propaganda has been extensive with actors, filmmakers and writers openly backing Modi, running down his political rivals, especially Congress president, Rahul Gandhi and aligning their creative work with Modis agenda. In the past, Bollywood has largely stayed away from explicitly political films. The occasional star might appear at an election rally but more as a prop than any real endorsement. If any message was conveyed at all, it tended to be vaguely pro-establishment, not openly partisan. Some critics believe a distinct shift has taken place in the past few months to a more overt political stance. Others disagree, saying its not so much a question of Bollywood supporting Modi but more that the industry has always wanted to be on the right side of the government, whichever party is in power. If someone suggested meeting Modi, which film star is going to say no? The BJP has always tried to co-opt the industry because it knows how to influence people through the media but a couple of patriotic films and a few stars meeting Modi, that isnt the whole industry. It is huge. It is more than just 25 people. It is diverse, said director Vinta Nanda. Supporting the contention that Bollywood is not one-sided is the release this month of a film on Rahul Gandhi called My Name is RaGa. Earlier this month, more than 800 theatre and film personalities joined forces to sign online petitions urging voters to oppose Modi. The poster for Uri: The Surgical Strike. Photograph: Collection Christophel/Alamy Stock Photo The fundamental point, numerous directors told the Guardian, is that only money talks in Bollywood. No one is going to spend billions of rupees making a pro-Modi or pro-government film unless they believe it will generate profits. The be all and end all of the industry is making money. Uri was a fantastic human drama waiting to be told. That doesnt mean the director is cosying up to Modi. And if someone makes a film about Modis life, it is because he is the prime minister and it is seen as a business opportunity, not because the director loves Modi, said director and trade analyst Komal Nahta. The author Parsa Venkateshwar Rao Jr draws a parallel with Hollywood matching the public mood in America, by making films with anti-communist themes during the cold war or anti-German second world war movies, to illustrate his belief that a convergence often occurs. No one called Hollywoods anti-communist films propaganda. You have to distinguish between films that portray the public mood and films that are outright propaganda, he said. In the 50s and 60s, Bollywood films were left-leaning and their themes matched the vision of the government to fight poverty and illiteracy. Likewise, Rao Jr argues, a similar convergence exists now with Bollywood pursuing nationalist themes to echo a somewhat nationalistic public mood. Bollywood wouldnt make films like Uri if they werent successful and they are successful right now because the mood is pro-government. Its not that Bollywood is being partisan but just that it is reflecting this mood, he said. China's service outsourcing industry continued to grow in 2018 with signed offshore contracts worth more than $120 billion and the value of fulfilled contracts reaching $88.7 billion, according to official data. Service outsourcing has become a highlight of China's open economy, which reflects its continuous enrichment and the constant improvement of its development level, said Vice-Minister of Commerce Qian Keming. Qian made the remarks at the 2019 Global Service Outsourcing Summit and the 3rd China Service Trade Innovation Development Summit held on May 7 in Wuhan, central China. Last year, outsourcing deals completed for Belt and Road countries stood at 19 percent of the total contract value of outsourced Chinese services. Sun Yibiao, former vice minister of China customs, said through actively advancing innovative development of service trade, China is creating new growth points in opening up and conforming to economic globalization, trade and investment facilitation. Beijing's new airport gears up to welcome four test flights A bird's-eye view of Beijing Daxing International Airport, which is scheduled to open on Sept 30. [Photo by Li Xiaofan/For China Daily] Beijing Daxing International Airport plans to welcome four planes on test flight next Monday, Beijing Youth Daily reported. Air China, China Eastern Airlines and China Southern Airlines will dispatch flagship models 747-8, A359 and A380, respectively. Meanwhile, Xiamen Airlines will send a Boeing 787 to take part in the test flight. This comes nearly three and a half months after the airport welcomed the first test plane on Jan 22. According the plan, these airplanes should arrive at the airport before 10 am. After ground clearance, these planes will take off from runway 01L/19R, 17R/35L and 17L/35R. The whole process will take about one hour. Currently, preparatory work for the Daxing airport is in full gear, the newspaper said. The new airport's four runways and related taxiways passed acceptance inspection on April 28-30. Daxing airport's flight inspection, which is a prerequisite for all new airports before-entering service, was completed on Feb 24, 19 days ahead of schedule. The inspections, which lasted for 34 days, started on Jan 22 and were supposed to last until March 15 covering the airport's four runways, six landing systems, seven lighting facilities and other services. Beijing Daxing International Airport, Beijing's second major civil airport, is scheduled to be completed on June 30 and open on Sept 30. It aims to meet the country's surging air service demand and relieve Beijing Capital International Airport from tight flight pressure. The new airport, which is located at the junction of Beijing's Daxing district and Langfang, a city in neighboring Hebei province, is expected to handle 45 million passengers annually by 2021 and 72 million by 2025. Driver protests, strikes cast shadow on Uber IPO Washington, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2019 Rideshare drivers in major US cities were set to stage a series of strikes and protests Wednesday, casting a shadow over the keenly anticipated Wall Street debut of sector leader Uber. Organizers in some cities were calling for a 24-hour stoppage while the New York Taxi Workers Alliance, which represents both app and traditional taxi drivers, called on drivers to shut down all apps between 7:00 am (1100 GMT) and 9:00 am. It was unclear how many drivers would take part in the work stoppage amid strike calls in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Boston and elsewhere. A similar action was expected in London, according to US organizers. The app drivers for Uber, Lyft, Via and other platforms are seeking improved job security, including an end to arbitrary "deactivations," and a better revenue split between drivers and platforms. In New York, the alliance was expecting most of its 10,000 app drivers to participate in the stoppage as well as some non-members. "Wall Street investors are telling Uber and Lyft to cut down on driver income, stop incentives, and go faster to driverless cars," Bhairavi Desai, executive director of the New York association, said in a statement. "Uber and Lyft wrote in their (regulatory) filings that they think they pay drivers too much already. With the IPO, Uber's corporate owners are set to make billions, all while drivers are left in poverty and go bankrupt." In Washington, the Drive United association of drivers called for a protest at Reagan National Airport to support the actions in other locations. "We are asking riders not to cross the picket lines and to respect the strike," said Drive United organizer Jeffrey Dugas. Drive United said the action was in solidarity with protests in the US and other areas of the world where drivers struggle with the independent contractor model. "We've spoken with hundreds of drivers, and they know that it's wrong for Lyft and Uber executives to make millions while drivers can't afford healthcare," said Stan De La Cruz, a member of the Washington group. In Los Angeles, organizers called for "apps off" for 24 hours starting at midnight (0700 GMT) and a series of protests at Los Angeles International Airport. - IPO in the wings - Uber is set to launch its initial public offering (IPO) this week at an estimated valuation of some $90 billion, including its options and restricted stock unit. The launch will be a major milestone for the company, which has raised billions and disrupted the taxi industry in hundreds of cities around the world. The move follows a troubled market debut for Uber's largest US rival Lyft, which has lost more than 15 percent of its value since its March IPO. The strikes highlight the dilemma for rideshare firms, which have faced challenges from regulators and traditional taxi operators for using a business model relying on independent contractors. Daniel Ives, an analyst at Wedbush Securities, said Uber's rideshare "take rate" increased slightly to 21.7 percent in 2018 but that this will remain a hot point of contention for Uber. "We do see added risk from Uber aiming to take greater share of the fare from drivers and expect that the more Uber pushes here, the more drivers will fight back and protest, increasing the likelihood of regulations (particularly at the state level in the US and in Europe) of minimum wage guarantees," Ives said in a research note. Uber said in a statement: "Drivers are at the heart of our service -- we can't succeed without them -- and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road." Lyft drivers' hourly earnings have increased over the past two years and surpassed $10 billion, the company said in a statement. "Over 75 percent drive less than 10 hours a week to supplement their existing jobs," Lyft said. "On average, Lyft drivers earn over $20 per hour." Both Lyft and Uber set aside some of their shares for drivers as part of their offerings. The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2018 - Space Media Network. All websites are published in Australia and are solely subject to Australian law and governed by Fair Use principals for news reporting and research purposes. AFP, UPI and IANS news wire stories are copyright Agence France-Presse, United Press International and Indo-Asia News Service. ESA news reports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additional copyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement, agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by Space Media Network on any Web page published or hosted by Space Media Network. Privacy Statement On visit, Pompeo sees Iraq guarantees on 'imminent' Iran threat Baghdad, May 7 (AFP) May 07, 2019 Iraq has promised to guarantee the safety of US interests from Iran, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday as he paid a surprise trip to Baghdad where he accused Tehran of planning "imminent" attacks. The top US diplomat's unannounced visit marked an effort to stand up Washington's ties with Baghdad as it pushes ahead with its "maximum pressure" against Tehran -- a US arch-rival, but an ally of Iraq. Pompeo abruptly cancelled talks in Germany and made a lengthy detour from a European tour to spend four hours in Iraq, where he met both President Barham Saleh and Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi. "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country," Pompeo told reporters after the meetings. "They both provided assurances that they understood that was their responsibility," he said. Pompeo said he made the trip because Iranian forces are "escalating their activity" and said the threat of attacks were "very specific". "These were attacks that were imminent," Pompeo said. He declined to go into further detail on the alleged plot, which has been met with scepticism in numerous quarters, with leading Democratic lawmakers fearing that President Donald Trump's administration is seeking to spark a war with Iran. In the latest US move, the Pentagon said it was sending several massive, nuclear-capable B-52s to the region. The deployment was in response to "recent and clear indications that Iranian and Iranian proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack US forces," the Pentagon said. On Sunday, Washington announced it was dispatching an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East as national security advisor John Bolton warned Iran that Washington would respond with "unrelenting force" to any attack by Tehran, including by its regional allies. - Pressure on Shiite militias - Iraq's majority Shiite population enjoys religious kinship with Iran, which played a significant role in helping Baghdad to fight the Islamic State extremist movement. President Hassan Rouhani paid an official visit to Iraq in March, where he denounced pressure from the "aggressor" United States, which deposed Iran's arch-enemy Saddam Hussein in a 2003 invasion. Pompeo, whose trip to Iraq is his second this year, said he spoke at length about Iran's influence with Shiite militias. "We've urged the Iraqi government for its own security to get all of those forces under Iraqi central control," Pompeo said. "In each of those meetings, those two leaders promised that that was their objective, too, they were moving towards that goal," he said. In Iraq, a debate has been raging in recent months over the fate of some 5,200 US troops stationed across the country. Their presence angers the Hashed al-Shaabi, a paramilitary force that is dominated by pro-Iran factions which played a key role alongside government forces in the fight against IS. In a press conference a few hours before Pompeo's arrival, Abdel Mahdi said Iraq would not accept any attack on foreign troops on its land. "Iraq really is taking the responsibility to avoid any attack on any of our friends here, coalition forces or any of our friends here," he told reporters. "This is an obligation that Iraq would honour, (and) not accept any attack on anyone -- whether Iraqi, foreigner, whether it's an embassy or a company or a military mission," he said. - Eve of anniversary - The Trump administration has imposed sweeping sanctions on Iran, including trying to stop all exports of its oil, although it has issued a waiver for energy-starved Iraq to keep buying power from its neighbour. Iranian media have said that Rouhani will announce retaliatory measures on Wednesday to mark the anniversary of Trump's pullout from a 2015 nuclear accord under which Tehran drastically scaled back its sensitive work. With the imposition of US sanctions, Iran has grown increasingly frustrated that it has not seen the fruits of the agreement, with which UN inspectors say it is complying. Pompeo had been travelling from Finland, where he had attended a meeting of the Arctic Council, to Germany, where he was due to meet both Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas later Tuesday. Germany has wide disagreements with the Trump administration and along with other European nations still supports the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated under former US president Barack Obama. German parliamentary foreign affairs committee chair Norbert Roettgen said that "even if the reasons for the rejection are unavoidable, it unfortunately fits in with the current climate in the relationship between the two governments". But Pompeo said that Maas was "most gracious" in a telephone call in which he told him he would scrap the visit. Pompeo, who returns to Europe for talks Wednesday in London, said he would try to reschedule his trip "as soon as we possibly could". Iran to suspend some nuclear deal commitments: ministry Tehran, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Iran has decided to suspend some of its commitments under a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with major powers abandoned by Washington last year, the foreign ministry announced on Wednesday. "The decision of the high security council to 'stop acting on some of the Islamic Republic of Iran's commitments under the JCPOA (nuclear deal)' was communicated to the heads of state of the countries" still party to the deal -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, the ministry said. It said deputy Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had handed the decision to the ambassadors of the five countries in a meeting on Wednesday. The meeting came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of planning "imminent" attacks on a hastily organised visit to neighbouring Iraq on Tuesday. Washington has also deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and several massive, nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the Middle East as national security adviser John Bolton warned Washington would respond with "unrelenting force" to any attack by Tehran. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif dismissed the US military deployments and stressed that Iran's actions were not in breach of the nuclear deal it signed with major powers. "The Islamic republic has seen it suitable to stop acting on some of its commitments and measures it voluntarily undertook" under the nuclear deal, Zarif told state television from Moscow where he is on an official visit. Emphasising that "Iran will not withdraw" from the deal, Zarif said "this right has been set for Iran in the JCPOA; we are not operating outside of the JCPOA but are in fact working in its framework." He said the measures were in line with Sections 26 and 36 of the deal, which allow Iran to cease some or all of its commitments if the United States or other parties fail to adhere to the agreement, including by reimposing sanctions. The United States reimposed crippling unilateral sanctions last year after withrawing from the agreement, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May. Under the deal, Iran agreed to rein in its nuclear activities in return for an easing of sanctions. Catering aimed towards children may become more popular in China as people today are willing to spend more money on their little ones. Statistics indicated that an average urban household in China spends 500 to 1,000 yuan per month on food for their children, and child-targeted catering was worth around 50 billion yuan. The figure is expected to increase in the future. According to the China Research Center for Children's Industry (CRCCI), 80 percent of Chinese families spend around 30 to 50 percent of their income on their kids. The annual spending on children among these families stood at between 17,000 to 25,500 yuan. The child-oriented consumption market in China now has a value of 3.9 to 5.9 trillion yuan. As the number of children in China continues to rise with a predicted 272 million children in China by 2025, the market is sure to follow. An investigation showed that this market hit 4.5 trillion yuan in 2017, but the catering sector only accounted for 0.2 percent of that figure. Many catering industries are now making changes to grab a bigger slice of the market. For example, chain restaurants like KFC and McDonald's have already launched meals specially tailored for young customers. Wang Peng, one of the founders of a startup in the industry from southwest China's Chongqing municipality, explained that they have been selling meals with toys included to attract attention. According to one of Wang's partners, the restaurant also uses menus that are designed to double up as game mats. "We want the presentation of our menu to be in line with what the children are thinking," the partner said. However, the industry is also troubled by issues such as food safety and nutrition. The lack of national standards regarding child meals has caused concern among parents. Experts explained that industry practitioners should refer to detailed guidelines issued by authorities, and suggested that relevant organizations make standards in the field. Iran to end curbs on uranium enrichment stockpile Tehran, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Iran said Wednesday it will stop respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a landmark 2015 deal unless other powers help Tehran bypass renewed US sanctions, amid rising tensions with Washington. The move was part of a package of measures announced by Iran in response to the sweeping unilateral sanctions reimposed by Washington in the 12 months since it quit the agreement, which have had a severe effect on the Iranian economy. They came as Washington stepped up its war of words against Tehran, with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo making a hastily organised visit to neighbouring Iraq where he accused Iran of planning "imminent" attacks. Adding to the tensions, Washington announced it was deploying an aircraft carrier strike group with several nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the Middle East and national security adviser John Bolton warned Washington would respond with "unrelenting force" to any attack by Tehran. Under the landmark deal agreed by US President Donald Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, the six parties to the agreement were supposed to lift nuclear-related sanctions on Iran in return for it reining in its nuclear activities to ease fears it was seeking the capability to produce an atomic bomb. But the promised sanctions relief has failed to materialise as European and Asian banks and oil companies have moved swiftly to abide by the renewed US sanctions for fear of financial or commercial repercussions. - 60-day ultimatum - Iran warned that if the five other parties to the agreement - Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- failed to deliver on their commitments within 60 days to help Tehran benefit from the deal despite the US sanctions, it would suspend other key limits set by the deal. Iran's Supreme National Security Council said the measures were necessary to "secure its rights and bring back balance" after the unilateral moves by the Trump administration. "The Islamic Republic of Iran does not at the current stage consider itself committed to observing restrictions regarding storing enriched uranium stocks and heavy water stocks," the Supreme National Security Council said. "The remaining parties to the (deal) are given 60 days to implement their commitments, in particular in the fields of banking and oil," the council added. "In the next stage Iran will also stop observing restrictions on the level of uranium enrichment and measures regarding modernising Arak heavy water reactor." Uranium enriched to much higher levels than Iran's current stocks can be used as the fissile core of a nuclear weapon, while heavy water is a source of plutonium which can be used an alternative way to produce a warhead. The deal restricted Iran from enriching uranium to more than 3.67 percent, the level commonly used in power generation, and barred it from building additional heavy water reactors or accumulating stocks of more than 130 tonnes of heavy water. - Small 'window for diplomacy' - Iran will resume implementing its commitments "in the same level" as the other parties to the deal respect theirs, the council said. It called for swift action by the five governments, warning that time was running out to rescue the deal. "The window which is now open for diplomacy will not remain so for long, and the responsibility of the (deal) failing and any possibile consequences are completely on the US and the remaining parties," it said. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who is on an official visit to Moscow, stressed Iran's actions were not in breach of the nuclear deal, which UN inspectors have repeatedly certified its compliance with. "The Islamic republic has seen it suitable to stop acting on some of its commitments and measures it voluntarily undertook" under the nuclear deal, Zarif told state television. Emphasising that "Iran will not withdraw" from the deal, Zarif said "this right has been set for Iran in the JCPOA (nuclear deal); we are not operating outside of the JCPOA but are in fact working in its framework." France confirms contested arms shipment to Saudi Arabia Paris, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 The French government confirmed Wednesday that a new shipment of weapons will head for Saudi Arabia, despite claims Riyadh is using the arms in the Yemen war. Defence Minister Florence Parly told BFM television the weapons would be loaded onto a Saudi cargo ship scheduled to arrive Wednesday in the French port of Le Havre. She refused to identify the types of arms, but reiterated France's stance that they have been used only for defensive purposes by Saudi Arabia since it began its Yemen offensive in 2015. "As far as the French government is aware, we have no proof that the victims in Yemen are the result of the use of French weapons," Parly said. Pressure has been mounting on the government after the investigative news site Disclose leaked a classified military note last month detailing the use of French tanks and artillery in the war against Huthi rebels. Disclose alleged the new shipment included eight truck-mounted Caesar howitzers, though a government source told AFP this week that such cannons were not part of the delivery. Rights groups have accused Paris of being complicit in alleged war crimes against civilians in Yemen, where around 10,000 people have died and millions been forced to the brink of starvation. "The Saudi regime is one of the most brutal dictatorships in the world, and has inflicted a terrible humanitarian crisis on Yemen," said Andrew Smith of the Campaign Against Arms Trade NGO. "The destruction would not have been possible without the complicity and support of arms-dealing governments," he said. On Tuesday, all leftwing lawmakers exited parliament in protest after Genevieve Darrieussecq, secretary of state for the armed forces, said there was "no proof these weapons are being used against civilian populations". France, the world's third-biggest arms exporter, counts Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as major clients and has resisted pressure to stop arms sales to the Gulf countries. It is a marked contrast with Germany, which has suspended its weapon sales to Saudi Arabia since last October. "France has strategic interests in this part of the world," Parly said Wednesday, adding that the latest shipments were part of "long-term partnerships with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates." The United Nations says the Yemeni conflict is the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with 3.3 million people displaced by the fighting and 24.1 million in need of aid. Netanyahu: Israel will 'not allow' nuclear-armed Iran Jerusalem, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Wednesday not to allow Iran to acquire nuclear arms after the Islamic republic said it would abandon limits on its nuclear activities agreed in a 2015 deal. "This morning on my way here I heard that Iran intends to continue its nuclear programme," Netanyahu said at a ceremony on Israel's annual day of remembrance for its fallen soldiers and civilian victims of militant attacks. "We shall not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon," he said in Hebrew. Netanyahu has been an outspoken opponent of Iran's landmark nuclear deal with major powers and was the leading supporter of US President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from it and reimpose crippling economic sanctions last year. Israel is considered the leading military power in the Middle East and is widely believed to possess its sole, if undeclared, nuclear arsenal. On Wednesday Tehran said it was ending curbs on its uranium enrichment stockpile agreed under the 2015 deal until other powers help it bypass the renewed US sanctions. Iran does not recognise its archfoe Israel and opposition to the Jewish state has been a central tenet of official policy since the Islamic revolution. Iran has supported Palestinian and other anti-Israel groups, including Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah. Israel has said publicly that it has carried out hundreds of air and missile strikes targeting the forces of Iran and Hezbollah in neighbouring Syria. Kremlin denounces 'unreasonable pressure' on Iran Moscow, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Russia on Wednesday said it stood by the Iran nuclear deal and denounced US pressure that led to Tehran to suspend some of its commitments under the agreement. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin remained committed to the agreement and that there were no alternatives "at the moment" to the deal. "Putin has repeatedly spoken about the consequences of ill-considered steps towards Iran, meaning the decision taken by Washington" to reimpose sanctions, Peskov said. He said Russia would work with European countries to maintain the "continued viability" of the nuclear deal and that it was too early to discuss the possibility of Russia joining sanctions against Tehran. "Putin has said that it is ill-conceived and arbitrary decisions that put unreasonable pressure on Iran and cause the adverse steps that we are facing." Kiev will not recognise Russian passports from rebel areas: PM Kiev, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Ukraine said on Wednesday it will not recognise Russian passports issued to Ukrainian citizens in the territories occupied by Kremlin-backed rebels, comparing them to Nazi identity documents. "These passports will be considered illegal," Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman told the government meeting. "We will never recognise any citizenship that was issued by the aggressor state. This is like Nazi Germany issuing Ausweis (identity document) for certain people," Groysman added. Ukrainians with Russian passports will not be able to cross the state border and use them on the territory of Ukraine. The same rule will apply to Russians who have received their passports at centres that issue documents to residents of separatist republics, warned Groysman. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that Russia "will continue to issue passports to those citizens who want them and who fall under the presidential decree" Vladimir Putin signed in April. The decree made it easier for people living in eastern Ukraine's separatist territories to obtain Russian passports, drawing swift condemnation from Kiev and its western allies. Putin also said recently that Ukrainians and Russians were "one people" and would benefit from common citizenship as the "brotherly nations". The conflict between the Kiev government and breakaway rebels began after Moscow annexed Ukraine's Crimea peninsula in 2014. The war has claimed some 13,000 lives. Moscow urges signatories of Iran nuclear deal to 'fulfil obligations' Moscow, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday called on signatories to abide by the Iran nuclear deal, during a press conference in Moscow with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif. "I believe the only practical steps that need to be taken in order to resolve the situation... is to convince all remaining participants to fulfil their obligations," he said. Lavrov said the 2015 deal had been "fragile" since US President Donald Trump announced Washington would pull out a year ago. European signatories of the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), were trying to "divert attention" from their inability to implement points of the agreement, Lavrov said. "We will call on them, as we have done before, to concentrate on implementing everything that is enshrined in the JCPOA and approved by the UN Security Council." Zarif's Moscow visit came as Iran said it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under the deal until other signatories find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions. Washington reimposed sanctions after it quit the agreement one year ago, dealing a severe blow to the Iranian economy. Iran nuclear deal: from US exit to Iran relief ultimatum Tehran, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Washington unilaterally withdrew one year ago from a deal between major powers and Tehran under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear activities in exchange for relief from international sanctions. The administration of President Donald Trump accused Tehran of "destablising activities" across the region and vowed to exert "maximum pressure" through renewed sanctions to bring them to an end. Here are key developments in the bitter standoff. - US quits - On May 8, 2018, President Donald Trump announces the US withdrawal from the 2015 pact, saying "we cannot prevent an Iranian nuclear bomb under the decaying and rotten structure of the current agreement." The move heralds the reinstatement of US sanctions, in two phases. The US warns other countries to end trade and investment in Iran and to stop buying its oil or face punitive measures. But US allies Britain, France, Germany -- who were also parties to the deal alongside Russia and China -- insist Iran has abided by its commitments and say they are determined to save the agreement. President Hassan Rouhani says Iran would be within its rights to scrap the curbs it agreed in the deal. But he calls on the remaining parties to save it. - Support for Iran - Washington warns on May 21 that Tehran will be hit with the "strongest sanctions in history" unless it concedes to further demands over its missile programme and ends its "destabilising activities". A top US official says on July 2 that Washington is determined to force Iran to change its policies by slashing its oil export revenues. On July 6, Tehran's five remaining partners in the accord vow to back "the continuation of Iran's exports of oil and gas". - War of words - On July 22, Rouhani warns the US that any conflict with Iran would be the "mother of all wars". Trump tweets that he should stop making threats "OR YOU WILL SUFFER CONSEQUENCES". - Sanctions, again - On August 7, Washington reimposes a first set of sanctions that target Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets. Within hours, German carmaker Daimler says it is halting its activities in Iran. French energy giant Total and other major firms follow suit. On November 5, the United States reimposes a second package of sanctions aimed at significantly reducing Iran's oil exports and cutting it off from international finance. At the end of January 2019, Britain, France and Germany launch a trade mechanism known as INSTEX in a bid to allow Tehran to keep trading with EU companies bypassing US sanctions. - 'Terrorism' - On March 7, Washington calls for international measures against Iran over three launches it says are related to its missile programme. On April 2, London, Paris and Berlin call for a UN report on Iran's missile activity. On April 8, the United States designates Iran's parallel military, the Revolutionary Guard, a "foreign terrorist organisation". Tehran immediately declares Washington a "state sponsor of terrorism" and blacklists its forces in the region as "terrorist groups". - US military deployment - On May 5, US national security adviser John Bolton says Washington is sending an aircraft carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East in a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran. Two days later, the Pentagon deploys B-52 bombers to the Gulf. - Iran ripostes - On May 8, Iran says it has decided to suspend commitments it made under the deal, some immediately and some after 60 days if no progress is made on sanctions relief. They include restrictions on the level to which Iran can enrich uranium and modifications to Iran's Arak heavy water reactor that were designed to prevent the production of plutonium as a byproduct. Six months not enough to form S.Sudan unity government: president Juba, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 South Sudan's President Salva Kiir said Wednesday that a six-month delay agreed with his rivals for the formation of a unity government was not enough time to resolve outstanding issues. Warring parties in a civil conflict that is now in its sixth year, agreed Friday to delay the formation of a power-sharing government from May 12 for six months, after implementation of a peace deal ran aground. Kiir's main rival, his former vice president Riek Machar, had pushed for the delay, while Kiir wanted to move forward with the unity government and deal with outstanding issues later. However as questions mount over Kiir's political will to implement the September 2018 peace deal, the president said even the extension would not be enough to resolve sticky issues such as creating a unified army and agreeing on state boundaries. "If we cannot do them in the last eight months, what will make this succeed this time around in six months?" Kiir told officials while launching the country's new civil registry. "I told my team (in Addis Ababa)... that instead of six months, let us call for a one-year delay," due to seasonal rains from May to November which make the country's largely dirt roads impassable. Kiir accused Machar of continuing to recruit fighters during a ceasefire which has largely held since September. "He is now recruiting and this recruitment is prohibited in the agreement and if it is a matter of recruitment, it does not cost me much to also recruit," he said. The United Nations has accused all sides of continuing to recruit fighters. South Sudan's war broke out in 2013, two years after independence, after Kiir accused his Machar of plotting a coup against him. The fighting has left 380,000 people dead and forced more than four million South Sudanese -- almost a third of the population -- to flee their homes. Numerous attempts at peace have failed. Kiir's latest comments come a week after it emerged he had hired an American lobby firm to block the formation of a hybrid African Union-South Sudan court to try war crimes, stipulated in the peace agreement. Moscow, Iran urge Europe to 'fulfil obligations' under nuclear deal Moscow, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif on Wednesday called on European signatories to abide by the Iran nuclear deal, following a meeting in Moscow. Zarif's visit came as Tehran said it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under the deal until other signatories find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions. Lavrov said during a joint press conference that the 2015 agreement had been "fragile" since US President Donald Trump announced Washington would pull out a year ago. European signatories of the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), were trying to "divert attention" from their inability to implement points of the agreement, Lavrov said. "We will call on them, as we have done before, to concentrate on implementing everything that is enshrined in the JCPOA and approved by the UN Security Council." Lavrov said European mechanisms to allow banking transactions with Iran despite US sanctions were inefficient. "For Iran, it is important that this mechanism allows for the export of Iranian oil. We support the Iranians. This is a legal requirement and part of the JCPOA." Zarif meanwhile said "our friends in Russia and China maintained very good relations with us in this year," since the US withdrawal. "But the rest of the JCPOA participants did not meet any of their obligations," he said, referring to Britain, France and Germany. "Yes, they issued good statements, but in practice nothing happened." Lavrov also criticised Washington for sending aircraft carriers to the Persian Gulf, "suggesting a willingness to use force". Washington reimposed sanctions after it quit the agreement one year ago, dealing a severe blow to the Iranian economy. Iran suspends nuclear deal curbs in push for relief from US sanctions Tehran, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Iran said Wednesday it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a 2015 deal with major powers until they find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions. The well trailed announcement came as Washington stepped up its rhetoric against Tehran, accusing it of planning "imminent" attacks and deploying an aircraft carrier strike group with several nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the region. Iran said it was responding to the sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago, which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. It said it would stop implementing some of the restrictions it had agreed with immediate effect. Tehran said it would abandon more if the remaining parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- failed to start delivering on their commitments to sanctions relief within 60 days. President Hassan Rouhani underlined that the ultimatum was intended to rescue the nuclear deal from his US counterpart Donald Trump who has repeatedly called for it to be scrapped since he pulled out on May 8, 2018. "We felt the (deal) needed surgery and that the year-long sedatives have not delivered any result. This surgery is meant to save the (deal) not destroy it," Rouhani said at a cabinet meeting broadcast live on state television. Robert Kelley, a former UN nuclear inspector now with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, said the commitments Iran was dropping had no bearing on its ability to develop an atomic bomb. He said Iran was simply seeking to "save face" after "striking a deal which was not respected by the other side." - US not world 'sheriff' - Under the landmark deal agreed by Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, the parties to the agreement were supposed to lift nuclear-related sanctions on Iran in return for it reining in its activities to ease fears it was seeking the capability to produce an atomic bomb. But the promised sanctions relief has failed to materialise as European and Asian banks and oil companies have moved swiftly to abide by the renewed US sanctions for fear of financial or commercial repercussions. Rouhani slammed European countries for seeing the US as the world's "sheriff" and said this keeps them from making "firm decisions for their own national interests." "You have responsibilities, too ... for keeping your youth away from drugs, the flood of immigrants and other cooperation Iran has had with you so far. If this trend continues, the cooperation will cease." The three European parties to the deal -- Britain, France and Germany -- tried to save the accord with a trade mechanism meant to bypass reimposed US sanctions, but their attempt was dismissed by Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a "bitter joke". Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who was in Moscow on an official visit, accused European governments of not fulfilling their obligations under the nuclear deal. "Our friends in Russia and China maintained very good relations with us in this year but the rest of the... participants did not meet any of their obligations," Zarif said. Germany urged Iran to uphold the nuclear deal. "We as Europeans, as Germans, will play our part and we expect full implementation from Iran as well," Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert said. Britain called Iran's decision an "unwelcome step" and urged it to avoid "further escalatory steps". China underlined that it "resolutely opposes" the unilateral US sanctions on Iran but called on all parties to uphold the nuclear deal. Russia said it remained committed to the nuclear deal and denounced what it called "unreasonable pressure" on Iran. Iran's Supreme National Security Council said it no longer considered itself bound by the agreed restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water. It said after 60 days, it would also stop abiding by restrictions on the level to which Iran can enrich uranium and modifications to its Arak heavy water reactor that were designed to prevent the production of plutonium. Uranium enriched to much higher levels than Iran's current stocks can be used as the fissile core of a nuclear weapon, while heavy water is a source of plutonium which can be used as an alternative way to produce a warhead. - Small 'window for diplomacy' - The council called for swift action by the remaining parties to the deal, warning time was running out. "The window which is now open for diplomacy will not remain so for long, and the responsibility of the (deal) failing and any possibile consequences are completely on the US and the remaining parties," it said. On the eve of the Iranian announcement, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Baghdad, an ally of both Washington and Tehran. Pompeo said he made the trip because Iranian forces are "escalating their activity" and said the threat of attacks was "very specific", without giving further detail. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a fierce opponent of the nuclear deal, seized on the Iranian announcement as evidence that it was pressing ahead with its nuclear programme. "We shall not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon," he said. A Jamaican dermatologist, Dr. Patricia Yap, was invited to Beijing to present her research at the Third International Keloid Symposium, which was held in China's capital between April 19 and 21. The forum sought to provide an opportunity for scientists and medical doctors from across the world to openly discuss the most current research on the clinical management of keloid disorder. The goal of the forum was to begin the establishment of data-driven and evidence-based clinical management guidelines. During the three-day symposium, Dr. Yap presented her paper titled, "Re-Thinking the Medical Management of Keloids: Reflections and Experiences from a Busy Urban Clinical Practice in Kingston, Jamaica." During her presentation, Dr. Yap described a new, groundbreaking treatment that she had developed at her practice in Jamaica. She created a unique delivery system that allowed the introduction of the steroid into the dermis/skin topically. To date, keloid treatment typically involves painful and uncomfortable intralesional steroid injections. Each and every keloid has to be injected, and the volume of Triamcinolone Acetonide (TA) solution could result in systemic side effects. Other treatments target keloid disorder as a tumor, and as such, the treatment modalities include surgery, radiation therapy, cryotherapy and chemotherapy as single and/or multiple modality treatments. Dr. Yap proposed a new definition for the keloid disorder. "Keloid is a chronic relapsing inflammatory disorder involving the proliferation of the fibroblast and the production of extracellular matrix (ECM), resulting in a mass in the dermis." As such she has been treating keloids as an inflammatory condition (eczema or psoriasis) as opposed to a tumor. Since the early 2000s, Dr. Yap has been using her topical formulation to treat the Keloid disorder in her patients in a way that is non-invasive, effective and affordable. Her topical keloid formula seeks to empower patients by allowing them to take control of the disorder at an early stage while addressing the issue of reoccurrence. Domestically and internationally, Dr. Yap's formula strives to reduce the overall healthcare burden on private and public healthcare centers through the prevention of keloid disorders rather than merely treatment. Education and Early Beginnings Dr. Yap received her undergraduate degree with honors in Pure and Applied Chemistry and her Medical Degree from the University of the West Indies. She completed her advanced studies in Dermatology with Distinction at the prestigious University of London St. John's Institute of Dermatology. After returning to Jamaica in 1993, Dr. Yap established a successful private practice, treating acne as well as addressing a multitude of skin concerns, such as keloid scarring, seborrheic dermatitis, abnormal pigmentation and hair loss. She is also Chief Executive Officer of Apex Healthcare Associates, the largest medical center in Jamaica. The treatment of a variety of skin disorders has become a lifelong passion and pursuit for Dr. Yap. Alongside her sister, Felice Campbell, Dr. Yap co-founded ariSkinCare, a skincare company focusing on over-the-counter solutions for common skin conditions for those with black or brown skin. Belt and Road Initiative Strengthens China-Jamaica Ties China and Jamaica have remained committed development partners since diplomatic ties were first established in 1972. Jamaica signed the BRI cooperative documents with China on April 11, 2019. The BRI program seeks to strengthen international relations between China, Jamaica and a plethora of countries that have already signed up. Several other Caribbean and Latin American countries have also engaged in this initiative including Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica, Guyana, the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Costa Rica and Panama, to name a few. It is widely known that China has been very supportive of the Caribbean and the Latin American region. Antonia Hugh, Jamaica's Ambassador to China, noted that the Belt and Road Initiative has put forward a new interpretation of world peace and development. "Along with the entry into the Belt and Road, Jamaica looks forward to closer ties between the two nations. Both countries hope to strengthen policy coordination and substantive cooperation using the principles of consultation, contribution and shared benefits. With these goals in mind, China and Jamaica seek to finalize policy communications, utility connectivity, unimpeded trade, financial integration, and more people-to-people exchanges. It is our great hope that we can bring the passionate Jamaican culture and the profound Chinese culture together for more brilliant chapters in the future". China and Jamaica Partner for Healthcare Through its "Bright Journey Eye Care Mission," the Chinese government financed cataract surgeries for over 500 Jamaicans. A Chinese team of five ophthalmologists, three nurses, two engineers, and one technician were on hand in Jamaica to perform the surgeries. Chinese Ambassador to Jamaica, Tian Qi, is reported to have expressed his sincere pleasure in his government's kind assistance. "The Bright Journey Eye Care Mission is a gift of goodwill from the people and government of China to the people and government of Jamaica. It will not only brighten the Jamaican patients' eyesight, but also make the China-Jamaica partnership for common development even brighter," he noted. Jamaica hopes to continue to further fortify its relationship with China, especially in medicine and healthcare. With this in mind, Dr. Yap and Felice Campbell have launched the Jamaica Keloid Research Foundation (JKRF) intending to exchange expertise in the treatment of keloid disorder. Felice Campbell and Dr. Yap successfully lobbied for the Fourth International Keloid Symposium to be held next year in Montego Bay, Jamaica, with over 100 physicians and scientists expected to attend. Similar to the hospitable welcome she received in Beijing, Dr. Yap is looking forward to extending a warm Jamaican welcome to her Chinese colleagues and other international experts whom she recently met. Currently, Vicki Cann serves as a lecturer at the Communication University of China as well as its partner institution - the New York Institute of Technology. Her research interests include public diplomacy as well as the burgeoning relationship between China, the Caribbean and Latin America. Iran nuclear deal setback: key reactions Paris, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Iran alarmed key powers Wednesday by saying it would stop respecting agreed limits on its nuclear activities until foreign partners help it bypass renewed US sanctions. The limits were agreed by Iran and six other parties that signed the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA): Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States, which last year pulled out of the deal. Here is a roundup of major reactions so far on Wednesday to Iran's announcement. - Implement deal: Russia - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said European signatories were trying to "divert attention" from their inability to implement points of the 2015 agreement. "We will call on them, as we have done before, to concentrate on implementing everything that is enshrined in the JCPOA," he said. - 'Avoid escalation': China - "We call on all relevant parties to exercise restraint, strengthen dialogue, and avoid escalating tensions," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang. He said China "resolutely opposes" unilateral US sanctions against Iran. - Israel 'won't allow' weapon - "We shall not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who backed US President Donald Trump's decision to pull out of the 2015 accord, said in an address. - Germany: 'full implementation'- Berlin wants to keep alive the agreement, said German Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert, adding: "We as Europeans, as Germans, will play our part and we expect full implementation from Iran as well." - Britain: 'unwelcome step' - "Today's announcement from Tehran is... an unwelcome step. We urge Iran not to take further escalatory steps and to stand by its commitments," British Foreign Office minister Mark Field told parliament. Six months too few to form S.Sudan unity government: president Juba, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 South Sudan's President Salva Kiir said Wednesday that a six-month delay agreed with his rivals for the formation of a unity government was not enough time to resolve outstanding issues. Warring parties in a civil conflict that is now in its sixth year, agreed Friday to delay the formation of a power-sharing government from May 12 for six months, after implementation of a peace deal ran aground. Kiir's main rival, his former vice president Riek Machar, had pushed for the delay, while Kiir wanted to move forward with the unity government and deal with outstanding issues later. However the president said even the extension would not be enough to resolve sticky issues such as creating a unified army and agreeing on state boundaries. "If we cannot do them in the last eight months, what will make this succeed this time around in six months?" Kiir told officials while launching the country's new civil registry. "I told my team (in Addis Ababa)... that instead of six months, let us call for a one-year delay," due to seasonal rains from May to November which make the country's largely dirt roads impassable. Kiir accused Machar of continuing to recruit fighters during a ceasefire which has largely held since a peace deal was signed in September. "He is now recruiting and this recruitment is prohibited in the agreement and if it is a matter of recruitment, it does not cost me much to also recruit," he said. The United Nations has accused all sides of continuing to recruit fighters. South Sudan's war broke out in 2013, two years after it gained independence, after Kiir accused his Machar of plotting a coup against him. The fighting has left 380,000 people dead and forced more than four million South Sudanese -- almost a third of the population -- to flee their homes. Numerous attempts to restore peace have failed. - Lack of political will - Questions have mounted over Kiir's political will to implement the peace deal. It emerged last week he had hired an American lobby firm to block the formation of a hybrid African Union-South Sudan court to try war crimes, stipulated in the peace agreement. A statement by the International Crisis Group on Wednesday said the status quo was convenient for both sides. "The government has little incentive to execute a power-sharing arrangement that, by definition, will dilute its authority," said the statement. Meanwhile Machar appears to want to use the planned cantonment process - under which both sides' armed groups are to be assembled and later integrated in a new, unified army -- "as an opportunity to regroup and bankroll his fighting force". The Crisis Group said that for the next six months to be more productive than the last eight, rival sides would have to agree on what needs to be implemented before the formation of the new government. Machar is insisting he will only return from exile once the cantonment process has been completed. "A unity government preconditioned on a broader reform of the army and the integration of Machar's disparate armed groups - many of which are likely to resist such a move - might never be formed," said the statement. The Crisis Group also called for better co-ordination among outside actors after the ouster of the accord's main broker Omar al-Bashir, which has left a "diplomatic vacuum". Iran nuclear deal: what happens now? Vienna, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 After Iran's announcement on Wednesday that it will stop respecting some limits on its nuclear activities imposed under a landmark 2015 deal with world powers, attention has turned to what repercussions the latest move will have. Tehran's announcement came exactly a year after the US withdrew from the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with further measures threatened if the agreement's other signatories fail to mitigate the impact of renewed American sanctions within 60 days. - What is the significance of Iran's announcement? - Experts said Iran's announcement has come in reaction to domestic pressure over the crippling impact of US sanctions. Rather than a serious escalation of its nuclear programme, it is being read as a way of putting pressure on the other signatories -- notably Germany, France and the UK. Ellie Geranmayeh of the European Council on Foreign Relations told AFP that Tehran's announcement was a "real warning shot", showing a shift from an approach "of strategic patience to strategic action". Robert Kelley, who previously worked in the US's nuclear weapons programme and is now at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), said Iran's announcement was a measure "to save face". Iran needs neither more enriched uranium stocks nor the heavy water -- as they don't have a reactor that uses heavy water anymore -- while new US sanctions prevented it from selling any excess, he added. - Is Iran going to try to build a nuclear weapon? - Kelley told AFP that, despite Wednesday's announcement, there would be "an infinite way" to go for Iran to build a weapon as, for one, it requires uranium enriched to a much higher degree, and Iran is under daily inspections by the UN's nuclear watchdog, the IAEA, which monitors the deal's implementation. "As long as everything is under IAEA safeguards and inspected daily, everyone will know exactly what is going on," said Kelley, a former director of IAEA nuclear inspections. The IAEA would find out "within a week" when the stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water had exceeded the prescribed limits, he said. - How will other signatories react? - In their first reactions, Britain, Germany and France have already condemned Iran's announcement, urging it to uphold the nuclear pact. Geranmayeh said it was unlikely deal signatories would re-instate sanctions on Iran at this point. "There is nothing to be gained at the moment by the Europeans joining the maximum pressure campaign of the United States other than potential military conflict on their doorstep," she said. But if they didn't want Iran to break further commitments, deal signatories would have to step up their game, she added. That for example could mean pressuring Washington to lift sanctions and implementing INSTEX, a trade mechanism Britain, France and Germany introduced in January to allow Tehran to keep trading with EU companies bypassing US sanctions. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has accused in particular the European signatories of not fulfilling their obligations under the deal, issuing "good statements" but not following through with action. - Can the deal survive? - The UK's former ambassador to Tehran, Richard Dalton, told AFP how the deal could continue to exist was not clear. "It's not yet clear whether the European governments feel they can do anything in the next 60 days that they have been unable to do in the last 365," said Dalton, now president of the British Iranian Chamber of Commerce. Trita Parsi, president of the National Iranian American Council and a vocal supporter of the agreement, said Europe was in a "difficult spot". "If it fulfils its obligations under the nuclear deal, it will face costly tensions with Washington." But if the EU toes the American line, it would "face the risk of (US national security adviser) John Bolton starting a war with Iran whose repercussions to Europe will be far greater than that of the Iraq war," Parsi said in a statement. Dalton said the US could yet succeed in making the deal collapse. "Not only is the United States destroying the EU's economic sovereignty -- and acting directly against EU security interests and global non proliferation -- but they're also seriously risking a war," he said. Charges dropped against Canada vice admiral in leaks case Ottawa, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Prosecutors on Wednesday dropped breach of trust charges against the former second in command of Canada's military who had been accused of leaking cabinet secrets related to navy shipbuilding plans. After reviewing new third party evidence in Vice-Admiral Mark Norman's case they said they were "no longer of the view that a reasonable prospect of conviction exists." "In particular, the Crown has concluded that it will not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Mr. Norman's conduct in this case amounted to a serious and marked departure from the standards expected of a person in his position of trust," said a statement. Norman, who was second in command of the military prior to being relieved of duty in January 2017, had been charged with the criminal offense for allegedly having "illegally disclosed government information to unauthorized parties." According to court documents, Norman was alleged to have provided sensitive government information to a local shipyard that had been selected by the previous Tory administration to provide the navy with an interim supply ship. He was apparently concerned that the project would be delayed over objections raised by the shipyard's rivals about a lack of competition in awarding the contract. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Liberals put the project on hold when they came to power in 2015, but eventually decided to proceed with it. Norman's lawyers argued that the charges were politically-motivated -- raising the risk of blowback for the Liberals ahead of October elections. US halts program to return remains of war dead from NKorea Washington, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 The Pentagon said Wednesday that it has suspended a joint effort with North Korea to recover the remains of US servicemen after Pyongyang stopped communicating in the wake of the failed Hanoi summit. The effort saw the remains of more than 50 US servicemen killed in the 1950s Korean war handed over by North Korea last year in a sign of improved relations between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un. But communications on the program halted after the two leaders failed to make progress in talks on North Korea's nuclear program in their February summit in Hanoi, according to Chuck Prichard, a spokesman for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA). North Korean officials "have not communicated with DPAA since the Hanoi Summit," Prichard said in a statement. "As a result, our efforts to communicate with the Korean People's Army regarding the possible resumption of joint recovery operations for 2019 has been suspended." "We have reached the point where we can no longer effectively plan, coordinate, and conduct field operations" with North Korea, he said. In July 2018 Pyongyang handed over the remains of more than 50 American servicemen who were lost in North Korea territory during the Korean War of 1950-1953. The return of the remains marked the partial fulfilment of an agreement reached between Trump and Kim at their historic initial summit in Singapore in June 2018. The White House at the time called it "a significant first step" in the process of searching for an estimated 7,700 Americans considered still missing from the war, of which 5,300 were believed lost in North Korea. UN chief hopes Iran nuclear deal can be saved United Nations, United States, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres hopes the Iran nuclear deal can be preserved, his spokesman said Wednesday, after Tehran announced it would stop complying with some of the commitments of the 2015 agreement. UN spokesman Farhan Haq recalled that Guterres has consistently praised the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), as the deal is formally known, as a "major achievement in nuclear non-proliferation and diplomacy and has contributed to regional and international peace and security." "He strongly hopes that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action can be preserved," he added. President Hassan Rouhani told a cabinet meeting in Tehran that Iran would no longer abide by some limits imposed on its nuclear activities that were agreed under the deal with world powers. Iran's Supreme National Security Council said it no longer considered itself bound by the agreed restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water. It said after 60 days, it would also stop abiding by restrictions on the level to which Iran can enrich uranium and modifications to its Arak heavy water reactor that were designed to prevent the production of plutonium. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the announcement was "intentionally ambiguous" and that Washington would wait and see what action Iran will take before deciding on a response. US vows never to be hostage to Iran 'nuclear blackmail' Washington, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 The United States accused Iran on Wednesday of engaging in "nuclear blackmail" after Tehran announced it would no longer abide by the limits of its 2015 nuclear deal with major powers. "America is never going to be held hostage to the Iranian regime's nuclear blackmail," US envoy for Iran Brian Hook said. The Iranian decision came on the anniversary of the US withdrawal from the agreement, which placed limits on the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. And it coincides with rising tensions, with the US announcing deployments of a carrier strike group and several B-52 bombers to the Gulf region. "We are committed to denying the Iranian regime all paths to a nuclear weapon," Hook said. "We will continue to impose maximum pressure on the regime until it abandons its destabilizing ambitions and we very much want the international community to hold the regime accountable for its threat to expand its nuclear program." Iran suspends nuclear deal curbs in push for relief from US sanctions Tehran, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Iran said Wednesday it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a 2015 deal with major powers until they find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions, as Washington accused Tehran of resorting to "blackmail". The well trailed announcement came after Washington stepped up its rhetoric against Iran, charging it was planning "imminent" attacks and deploying an aircraft carrier strike group with several nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the region. Tehran said it was responding to the sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago, which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. It said it would stop implementing some of the restrictions it had agreed with immediate effect. Tehran said it would abandon more if the remaining parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- failed to start delivering on their commitments to sanctions relief within 60 days. President Hassan Rouhani underlined that the ultimatum was intended to rescue the nuclear deal from his US counterpart Donald Trump who has repeatedly called for it to be scrapped since he pulled out on May 8, 2018. "We felt the (deal) needed surgery and that the year-long sedatives have not delivered any result. This surgery is meant to save the (deal) not destroy it," Rouhani said at a cabinet meeting broadcast live on state television. Washington fired back that Tehran was exploiting the nuclear accord as a pressure tool. "America is never going to be held hostage to the Iranian regime's nuclear blackmail," US envoy for Iran Brian Hook said. "We very much want the international community to hold the regime accountable for its threat to expand its nuclear programme." UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, for his part, said the nuclear accord was "a major achievement" that had "contributed to regional and international peace and security". "He strongly hopes that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action can be preserved," added UN spokesman Farhan Haq, referring to the deal by its formal name. On a practical level, Robert Kelley, a former UN nuclear inspector now with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, said the commitments Iran was dropping had no bearing on its ability to develop an atomic bomb. He said that Iran was simply seeking to "save face" after "striking a deal which was not respected by the other side." - US not world 'sheriff' - Under the landmark deal agreed by Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, the parties to the agreement were supposed to lift nuclear-related sanctions on Iran in return for it reining in its activities to ease fears it was seeking the capability to produce an atomic bomb. But the promised sanctions relief has failed to materialise as European and Asian banks and oil companies have moved swiftly to abide by the renewed US sanctions for fear of financial or commercial repercussions. Rouhani slammed European countries for seeing the US as the world's "sheriff" and said this keeps them from making "firm decisions for their own national interests". The three European parties to the deal -- Britain, France and Germany -- tried to save the accord with a trade mechanism meant to bypass reimposed US sanctions, but their attempt was dismissed by Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a "bitter joke". Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who was in Moscow on an official visit, accused European governments of not fulfilling their obligations under the nuclear deal. "Our friends in Russia and China maintained very good relations with us in this year but the rest of the... participants did not meet any of their obligations," Zarif said. Germany urged Iran to uphold the nuclear deal. "We as Europeans, as Germans, will play our part and we expect full implementation from Iran as well," Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert said. Britain called Iran's decision an "unwelcome step" and urged it to avoid "further escalatory steps". China underlined that it "resolutely opposes" the unilateral US sanctions on Iran but called on all parties to uphold the nuclear deal. Russia said it remained committed to the nuclear deal and denounced what it called "unreasonable pressure" on Iran. - Iran sets 60-day deadline - Iran's Supreme National Security Council said it no longer considered itself bound by the agreed restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water. It said after 60 days, it would also stop abiding by restrictions on the level to which Iran can enrich uranium and modifications to its Arak heavy water reactor that were designed to prevent the production of plutonium. Uranium enriched to much higher levels than Iran's current stocks can be used as the fissile core of a nuclear weapon, while heavy water is a source of plutonium which can be used as an alternative way to produce a warhead. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a fierce opponent of the nuclear deal, seized on the Iranian announcement as evidence it was pressing ahead with its nuclear programme. "We shall not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon," he said. Colombia blasts Venezuela over alleged military incursion Bogota, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 Colombia hit out at neighbor Venezuela on Wednesday for "repeated provocations" after claiming around 30 military personnel crossed into its territory. In a statement, the foreign ministry said the Venezuelan unit crossed 200 meters into northeastern Colombia. They were "identified by locals as belonging to the Bolivarian Armed Forces, at the service of the (Nicolas) Maduro regime, who remained for around 20 minutes," the statement said. The Venezuelan military personnel left the area when they noticed the arrival of a helicopter carrying Colombian soldiers, "who were sent to attend to calls from the community denouncing acts of intimidation." The statement said Colombia's military was "ready to defend (its) territorial integrity, while always maintaining the necessary prudence in the face of these clear and repeated provocations that aim only to incite a response to make Colombia look like the aggressor." Bogota frequently complains of territorial incursions by the Venezuelan military. The two countries' border is 2,200 kilometer (1,400 mile) long, difficult to access and largely lawless, with armed groups including drug traffickers, left-wing guerrillas and paramilitaries operating along it. Caracas broke off diplomatic relations with Bogota in February after Colombia became one of the more than 50 countries to recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. Relations between the two countries have been poor since 2017, with Colombia bearing the brunt of its neighbor's economic crisis that has seen more than 2.7 million people flee the country, according to the United Nations. Colombia President Ivan Duque has called his counterpart Maduro a "dictator." Trump moves to strangle Iran economy as nuclear deal withers Washington, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 US President Donald Trump on Wednesday tightened the screws further on Iran with sanctions on its mining industry after a frustrated Tehran said it would suspend some promises it made under a nuclear deal rejected by Washington. On the anniversary of Trump's withdrawal from the accord he denounced as "horrible," tensions were soaring after the United States deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers to the region and accused Iran of "imminent" attacks. In an announcement previewed for days, Iran said it would immediately stop implementing some restrictions under the 2015 deal -- a move aimed largely at pressing Washington's European allies to step up to preserve the agreement. Tehran said it would abandon even more if the remaining parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- failed to start delivering on their commitments to sanctions relief within 60 days. President Hassan Rouhani said the ultimatum was intended to rescue the nuclear deal from Trump, whose sanctions have caused severe pain in Iran -- which had anticipated an economic boon from the agreement negotiated under then president Barack Obama. "We felt the (deal) needed surgery and that the year-long sedatives have not delivered any result. This surgery is meant to save the (deal), not destroy it," Rouhani said at a cabinet meeting broadcast live on state television. Rouhani denounced European countries for seeing the US as the world's "sheriff" and said their view kept them from making "firm decisions for their own national interests." - Cutting Iranian exports - Trump quickly fired back as he moved to inflict greater economic pain on Iran, imposing sanctions that would punish anyone who buys or trades the country's iron, steel, aluminum and copper. The White House had already acted forcefully to prevent all countries from buying Iran's oil -- its crucial money-maker -- and said that the steel and mining sector was the country's second largest source of foreign revenue, accounting for 10 percent of exports. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement. But in a shift in tone, Trump -- who talked tough on North Korea before two landmark summits with leader Kim Jong Un -- said he was willing to negotiate face-to-face. "I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves," he said. Observers believe it is highly unlikely that Iran's leaders -- who have made hostility to the United States a bedrock principle since the 1979 Islamic Revolution toppled the pro-Western shah -- would want to meet Trump, who has repeatedly threatened the country. But Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif regularly saw his counterpart in the Obama administration, then secretary of state John Kerry, and recently dangled the prospect of a prisoner swap with the United States. Zarif, who was visiting Moscow, accused European governments of not fulfilling their obligations under the nuclear deal. "Our friends in Russia and China maintained very good relations with us in this year but the rest of the... participants did not meet any of their obligations," Zarif said. - Moving limits on uranium, heavy water - Iran's Supreme National Security Council said it no longer considered itself bound by the agreed restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water. It said that after 60 days, it would also stop abiding by limits on the level to which Iran can enrich uranium and modifications to its Arak heavy water reactor that were designed to prevent the production of plutonium. Uranium enriched to much higher levels than Iran's current stocks can be used as the fissile core of a nuclear weapon, while heavy water is a source of plutonium, which can be used as an alternative way to produce a warhead. But on a practical level, Robert Kelley, a former UN nuclear inspector now with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, said the commitments Iran was dropping had no bearing on its ability to develop an atomic bomb. He said that Iran was simply seeking to "save face" after "striking a deal which was not respected by the other side." - Concern in Europe - The three European parties to the deal tried to save the accord with a trade mechanism meant to bypass reimposed US sanctions, but their attempt was dismissed by Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a "bitter joke." The European powers voiced alarm at Iran's statement and expressed hope that the nuclear deal could be preserved. "It is important to avoid any action that would prevent the enactment of the obligations by parties currently upholding the agreement or that might fuel an escalation," a French foreign ministry spokesperson said. Germany urged Iran to uphold the nuclear deal. "We as Europeans, as Germans, will play our part and we expect full implementation from Iran as well," Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert said. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the nuclear accord was "a major achievement" in boosting international security and said he "strongly hopes" that it can be preserved, according to UN spokesman Farhan Haq. (Photo/Chinanews.com) Chinese opinion on digital heritage preservation has been divided, after the National Library announced its plan to archive Weibo posts on April 19. The project was launched to build a database of over 200 million posts and preserve China's digital footprint. Some regarded it as an honor because their posts are likely to be included in a national digital database, while some showed concerns over privacy. Digital heritage includes texts, databases, still and moving images, audio, graphics, software and web pages, among a wide range of formats, quoting the UNESCO's Charter on the Preservation of Digital Heritage. As high as 95.2 percent of Japanese respondents said they had no idea of how to deal with their digital heritage, according to Close-up Gendai Plus, a social affairs television show on Japan's NHK. Digital materials are at risk of being exposed and spied upon, Wang Qi, who teaches law at Beijing-based Beihang University, noted. Wang said that one's online footprint before death should not be open to the public as citizens' fundamental rights are under the protection of the law. When it comes to privacy issues, other people cannot keep using the social media accounts of the deceased, as their privacy rights are protected by constitutional law, said Professor Wang Sixin from the Communication University of China. On the other hand, these digital materials may allow bereaved people to feel closer to deceased family members, Wang said, adding that a balance is required between privacy protection and emotional demands. In the British TV series Black Mirror, grieving Martha reconnected with her late boyfriend thanks to a virtual service based on the digital materials he left behind. In the future, there's a high probability of continuing one's life via a virtual figure, said Future Affairs Administration (FAA), a Chinese technological brand for the future. France 'concerned' by Iran's shrinkback from nuclear deal Paris, May 8 (AFP) May 08, 2019 France said Wednesday it was "concerned" by Iran's statements that it has decided to weaken some of its commitments under the nuclear deal and called on it to avoid any action that could lead to an "escalation". "It is important to avoid any action that would prevent the enactment of the obligations by parties currently upholding the agreement or that might fuel an escalation," a foreign ministry spokesman said. France, he said, "strongly calls on Iran to continue to respect all of its nuclear obligations". French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly has not ruled out European sanctions on Iran if it did not fulfil all of its commitments under the accord, telling broadcasters BFMTV and RMC Radio that "those are among things to be looked at". Iran said earlier Wednesday it was responding to US sanctions imposed after President Donald Trump last year yanked his country out of the 2015 deal by deciding to stop implementing some of the restrictions imposed on it. Specifically, it said it would stop limiting the amount of heavy water and enriched uranium it possessed. It said it would stop adhering to other requirements of the deal unless the remaining parties to the accord -- Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China -- stepped up efforts to blunt the effect of the sanctions within 60 days. - Ominous US military deployments - The weakening of the nuclear accord with Iran comes amid an ominous ratcheting up of military pressure by the US, which has dispatched an aircraft carrier group and several of its huge B-52 bombers to the region close to the Islamic Republic. The 2015 deal -- entitled the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action -- was endorsed by the UN Security Council. Its aim is to block pathways for Iran to acquire nuclear weapons technology and fissile material. In exchange, Iran benefitted from a lifting of international sanctions that crippled its economy. The US sanctions imposed by Trump seek to impose even harsher curbs on Iran's economy, notably by cutting most of its oil exports and preventing it from any transactions involving the US dollar or US entities. Washington has also designated Iran's main military force, the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, which also controls swathes of the Iranian economy, as a "foreign terrorist organisation". On Wednesday, Trump announced added sanctions on Iran's steel and mining sectors and put "other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated". France, Britain and Germany early this established a special trade mechanism called Instex in a bid to allow Iran to keep trading with EU companies while bypassing the US sanctions. Iran, though, has expressed skepticism about how effective that and other European provisions are, and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo suggested Wednesday that Instex transactions could still be at risk of US sanctions. ACM honors computing innovators who are changing the world ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery, today announced the recipients of four prestigious technical awards. These leaders were selected by their peers for making contributions that extend the boundaries of research, advance industry, and lay the foundation for technologies that transform society. The 2018 recipients will be formally honored at the ACM Awards Banquet on June 15, 2019 in San Francisco. Gerald C. Combs receives the ACM Software System Award for creating the Wireshark network protocol analyzer, an essential tool for nearly anyone who designs, deploys, analyzes and troubleshoots the wide range of network protocols that tie the Internet together, and for continued leadership of the world-wide Wireshark developer community. Combs started Wireshark as an open source project in 1997, under the name Ethereal. The software quickly became the most commonly used system for visually analyzing network protocol traffic. Before the advent of Ethereal and Wireshark, protocol analyzers were expensive, dedicated pieces of hardware that were only available to large institutions. The creation of an open source network protocol analyzer democratized access to network protocol analysis. It also enabled people to learn about network protocols as they were able to visualize the traffic on their own networks. In addition, Wireshark has also had significant influence on the areas of network engineering and cyber security. Engineers who work alongside security experts in financial institutions and other high-profile businesses make extensive use of Wireshark in their ongoing fight against cybercrime. Combs, who serves as Director of Open Source Projects at Riverbed Technology, has continued to work on the Wireshark code. He spent 20 years guiding the open source community that has developed around the software and leading SharkFest, an annual educational conference focused on sharing knowledge, experience and best practices among the Wireshark developer and user communities. The ACM Software System Award is presented to an institution or individual(s) recognized for developing a software system that has had a lasting influence, reflected in contributions to concepts, in commercial acceptance, or both. The Software System Award carries a prize of $35,000. Financial support for the Software System Award is provided by IBM. Constantinos Daskalakis and Michael J. Freedman receive the ACM Grace Murray Hopper Award. Daskalakis, a professor at MIT, is recognized for his seminal contributions to Theory of Computation and Economics, particularly the Complexity of Nash Equilibrium. Strategic interaction greatly complicates behavior in socioeconomic environments, from traditional markets and offline social networks to modern technological systems such as online advertising platforms, kidney exchanges, cryptocurrencies, sharing economy applications, and online social networks. To analyze behavior in such strategic environments, economists have long relied on concepts of equilibrium. Daskalakis's work, with Goldberg and Papadimitriou, has challenged equilibrium theory by showing that Nash equilibrium is computationally intractable and thus unattainable, in general. His work has influenced an ongoing reshaping of the study of strategic behavior, showing that computation must play an essential role in the foundations of game theory and economics. Daskalakis's more recent work has resolved long-standing open problems in multi-dimensional mechanism design, and advanced several other fields, including machine learning, probability theory and statistics. Freedman, a professor at Princeton University, is cited for the design and deployment of self-organizing geo-distributed systems. By introducing new algorithms and protocols, Freedman has shown how to build scalable, performant, and autonomous distributed systems for modern heterogeneous deployments and realistic workloads. Some of Freedman's most popular systems include CoralCDN, a content distribution infrastructure that has been deployed at hundreds of network sites worldwide and been used by millions of clients to share images, videos and other content; the JetStream system, which employs an innovative approach to data streaming analytics; and TimescaleDB, an open source time series database that provides complex queries at scale on both historical and fresh data. Additionally, in more fundamental research, Freedman and colleagues have demonstrated that theoretically deep cloud systems need not be slow or scale poorly. The ACM Grace Murray Hopper Award is given to the outstanding young computer professional of the year, selected on the basis of a single recent major technical or service contribution. This award is accompanied by a prize of $35,000. The candidate must have been 35 years of age or less at the time the qualifying contribution was made. Financial support for this award is provided by Microsoft. Pavel Pevzner, a professor at the University of California San Diego, receives the ACM Paris Kanellakis Theory and Practice Award for pioneering contributions to the theory, design and implementation of algorithms for string reconstruction and to their applications in the assembly of genomes. Pevzner's research interests span the field of computational biology, and his work has been guided by tailoring algorithmic ideas to biological problems. The life sciences have been transformed by the ability to rapidly sequence and assemble genomes for organisms from existing and extant species and use these assembled genomes to answer fundamental and applied questions in biology, medicine and other sciences. Pevzner has made fundamental contributions to the theoretical study of string algorithms and to their application to scalable reconstruction of genomes and other biological sequences such as antibodies and antibiotics. Pevzner's algorithms underlie almost all sequence assemblers used today and were used to reconstruct the vast majority of genomic sequences available in databases. The ACM Paris Kanellakis Theory and Practice Award honors specific theoretical accomplishments that have had a significant and demonstrable effect on the practice of computing. This award is accompanied by a prize of $10,000 and is endowed by contributions from the Kanellakis family, with additional financial support provided by ACM's Special Interest Groups on Algorithms and Computation Theory (SIGACT), Design Automation (SIGDA), Management of Data (SIGMOD), and Programming Languages (SIGPLAN), the ACM SIG Projects Fund, and individual contributions. Henry Kautz receives the ACM - AAAI Allen Newell Award for contributions to artificial intelligence and computational social science, including fundamental results on the complexity of inference, planning and media analytics for public health. Beginning with his doctoral dissertation, Henry Kautz, now a professor at the University of Rochester, has studied how computers can infer the goals and plans of people by studying their behavior. He has made a range of fundamental contributions to theory and practice in knowledge representation and reasoning, planning and plan recognition and computational social science. Kautz was one of the pioneers in analyzing the computational complexity of knowledge representation formalisms. He was also a co-developer of the first randomized local search algorithms for Boolean satisfiability testing, which have found practical application in planning, graphical models, and software verification. In the area of pervasive computing and social media analytics, his trailblazing projects have included a system to help cognitively disabled people find their way by inferring the transportation destinations of selected groups of people; a project that uncovered the central role of air travel in the spread of diseases by analyzing social media data; and an initiative to improve the efficiency of restaurant health inspections by combining social media reports of food poisoning with location data. The ACM - AAAI Allen Newell Award is presented to an individual selected for career contributions that have breadth within computer science, or that bridge computer science and other disciplines. The Newell award is accompanied by a prize of $10,000, provided by ACM and the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI), and by individual contributions. ### About ACM ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery, is the world's largest educational and scientific computing society, uniting computing educators, researchers and professionals to inspire dialogue, share resources and address the field's challenges. ACM strengthens the computing profession's collective voice through strong leadership, promotion of the highest standards, and recognition of technical excellence. ACM supports the professional growth of its members by providing opportunities for life-long learning, career development, and professional networking. This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. According to media reports, producer Ahmed El-Sobky accompanied with thugs stormed into the headquarters of Sada El-Balad news website and assaulted its editor-in-chief and journalists Press Syndicate head Diaa Rashwan said the syndicate's council has followed up with deep concern a recent assault on the premises of Sada El-Balad news website. In a statement issued Tuesday, Rashwan stressed the council's full solidarity with the assaulted journalists, adding that the incident will not go unpunished. He also emphasised that he will support the assailed journalists through all legal means, noting that the syndicate's lawyer was present during the prosecution investigation. Rashwan further highlighted to the council's emphasis that press and media institutions must be protected from these types of assaults or disputes, adding that the council will announce the measures it will take regarding the incident. According to media reports, producer Ahmed El-Sobky accompanied with thugs stormed into the headquarters of Sada El-Balad news website and assaulted its editor-in-chief and journalists. Although the prosecution ordered the release of El-Sobky after paying LE1,000 bail, a previous one-year jail sentence imposed on him prevented his release. Earlier, Sada El-Balad filed a complaint with the Supreme Council for Media Regulation (SCMR) against El-Sobky for his non-compliance with the terms of contract between the two parties. The SCMR under Makram Mohammed Ahmed, condemned the attack on the headquarters of Sada El-Balad. "Attacking journalists is unacceptable, whatever the justifications," the council said in a statement. The council added that it is following up on the incident, pledging to take deterring measures based on the results of the ongoing public prosecution investigation. Search Keywords: Short link: Optimization Are you frustrated with a slow pc or a hard disk not performing as it should? Try SLOW-PCfighter to speed up boot time on a slow PC, or try a free scan of FULL-DISKfighter to recover space on a full disk. The latest offering is DRIVERfighter to update your driver updater. Get complete PC optimization and extend the life of your PC with these must-have software tools. New York, May 08, 2019 (SPS) -. The representative of the Frente POLISARIO to the United Nations, Dr. Sidi Mohamed Omar, met Tuesday with the Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix. During the meeting, the Saharawi diplomat conveyed to the UN head, the POLISARIO's position on several issues related to the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) and the United Nations peace process in the Western Sahara. On April 30, the UN Security Council adopted resolution 2468 (2019), through which it decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) for six months, inviting the parties to the conflict, the Frente POLISARIO and Morocco, to resume negotiations under the auspices of the UN with a view to reaching a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution that guarantees the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. Following the resolution, the Frente POLISARIO issued a statement in which it took note of the affirmation by the Security Council of its commitment to move forward with the United Nations peace process in Western Sahara despite strong opposition to who seek to maintain the status quo. The Frente POLISARIO also reaffirmed its sincere and constructive cooperation with the efforts of the Secretary-General of the United Nations and his Personal Envoy, President Horst Kohler, as well as his willingness to participate constructively in direct negotiations between the parties.SPS 125/090/TRA The Easter Sunday self-inflicted tragedy was in military parlance a total command failure, which is likely to take Sri Lanka a decade back by Ashok K Mehta Neither Sherlock Holmes nor Alfred Hitchcock would have been mystified by intelligence oversights that led to one of the worlds most dastardly terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka last month. Simply because it was a case of just connecting the dots so detailed and specific were the tip-offs. According to a top secret intelligence memo of April 9 (there were two others before the fateful day dawned on Easter Sunday), the countrys intelligence chief had warned the Inspector General of Police that Zahran Hashim of the National Tawheed Jamaat and his associates were planning to carry out suicide terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka shortly. How this classified warning was not shared with President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is a riddle. Rarely has there been an intelligence goof-up of this magnitude in recent memory. That such a catastrophic intelligence foul-up took place in Sri Lanka, which only a decade ago had destroyed the invincible Velupillai Prabhakaran-led Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), ending root and branch a 30-year-long deadly insurgency and becoming the first country to achieve such a feat in the 21st century, is intriguing. The Army, Navy and Air Force have held annual international seminars in Colombo to showcase their military successes, including the Armys prowess in deep penetration intelligence acquisition skills. According to the then Defence Secretary and brother of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, now a presidential hopeful for the elections this year, the present Government dismantled the elaborate intelligence and surveillance network of 5,000 personnel he had set up in 2011 across the country, including the Muslim majority areas of the east. Nine suicide bombers, including one woman, struck in coordinated attacks followed by two or three hara-kiri acts by family members and associates of the mastermind Hashim. It is now known that the suicide squad consisted of 15 members and the support group was 150 of whom 100 cadres have been arrested. Thirty-six Sri Lankans are reported to have gone to fight with the Islamic State in Syria and many had returned. The preparation for serial human bombing of this scale and sophistication would have taken months if not years. Sirisena has revealed that planning for the attacks started in Syria in 2017. How this massive diabolical plot escaped detection is a mystery. The Sri Lankan Army Commander, Lt Gen Mahesh Senanayake, in an interview to BBC, has said that the suicide bombers got some sort of training in Kashmir and Kerala. This should worry India. Given the severe communal polarisation exacerbated by the elections, major terrorist attacks are not unlikely in India in the near future. In 2017, I retraced my times with the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) 30 years ago in the east, travelling through Muslim majority Ampara and Kalmunai areas near Batticaloa and saw an increased density of population, mosques and madrassas as also prosperity and development. The Muslims were targeted by the LTTE notably in their massacre in Sri Lankas biggest mosque in Kattankudy near Batticaloa in the 1990s. (Kattankudy is the hometown of Hashim, the mastermind of the attacks and its training ground). Later, the Sinhala Buddhist extremists Bodu Bala Sena (BBS), ostensibly supported by the Government, targetted Muslims periodically from 2013, culminating in the big anti-Muslin riots in Kandy last year, which led to the Government declaring an Emergency. The trigger for Muslim alienation and radicalisation is the BBS attacks and objections to hijab and halal. How the Government did not pick up these straws in the wind is an enigma. Initially, the Government ascribed the horrific attacks to the Islamic State (IS)-inspired Sri Lankan Muslim National Thowheed Jamath (NTJ) as retaliation for Christchurch till IS supremo Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi claimed responsibility as revenge for loss of Baghouz, the caliphates last bastion in Syria. Sri Lankas own counter-terrorism czar, the Singapore-based Rohan Gunaratna, confirmed that IS has created support groups around the world and NTJ has joined the IS. The rift and infighting between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe is a folklore. The politics of the carnage is beguiling. Sirisena has squarely blamed the Prime Minister, the Defence Secretary and the Inspector General Police and said he was kept in the dark and that he would reconstitute security structures. On his part, Wickremesinghe said, I did not knowstill we have to take responsibility for that part of Government machinery that did not work. Sirisena is not only the Defence Minister but has also kept the Law and Order Ministry with him, some say, unconstitutionally. This has kept Wickremesinghe quarantined from defence and security, including national security council meetings. That the left hand did not know what the right hand was doing is the black hole in the security system. Former Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka was the key architect of victory of the LTTE but he fell out with the old regimes top leaders, the Rajapaksas. The Sirisena Government appointed Fonseka a Field Marshal and a Minister. Speaking in the Emergency debate in Parliament after the bombings, Fonseka lambasted his own Government, including Srisena, Wickremesinghe and other defence and intelligence officials. Demands for making Fonseka Minister for law and order are increasing. Sri Lanka is under Emergency rule with the Prevention of Terrorism Act in place but is likely to be replaced with the new counter-terrorism Bill. It is the first country to ban the face veil in South Asia. Both the curfew and ban on social media were lifted after a week. The preliminary report on the bombings has been completed, which Sirisena is keeping close to his chest. A new military command territorially, including parts of west and northwest provinces, including Colombo and Puttalam and strangely called Overall Operational Command, has been established and coastal security beefed up. Indias offer of sending its elite National Security Guards has been politely rejected. The joke in Colombo is about how NSG messed up in Mumbai in 2008 taking four days to complete the operation. Tongue-in-cheek Sri Lankan military veterans say what the IPKF started and did not complete, we finished. Over-indulgent in its conquest of LTTE, Sri Lanka let its guard down. A dysfunctional cohabitation Government has been rent apart by catastrophic terrorist attacks, which are likely to take Sri Lanka a decade back. The Easter Sunday self-inflicted tragedy was in military parlance a total command failure. That neither the Prime Minister nor President has resigned is to borrow a famous war time Churchillian one liner: A riddle wrapped in a mystery surrounded by an enigma. (The writer is a retired Major General of the Indian Army and founder member of the Defence Planning Staff, currently the revamped Integrated Defence Staff) by Asanga Abeyagoonasekera "What happened on September 11th is at least, theoretically, small stuff compared to what can happen. Robert D. Kaplan I was 16 when I witnessed the horror terrorism first hand. It was the blast I lost my father in. When the long battle ended with the Tamil Tigers in 2009, I was relieved that what I witnessed would not be seen by my children. I was wrong. April 21st 2019 was when I had to cover my seven-year-old childs eyes while my family was evacuating from the emergency exit of the Shangri La Hotel soon after the two suicide attacks which shook the entire building. The steps were soaked in blood. Lifeless bodies were carried out and many body parts blown off. Not many families made it out of the fire exit like us. My family is shocked and living in fear like many others today. I sympathize with the victims and their families who have lost loving family and friends. Had I been 3 minutes earlier to the lift, I would not be writing this piece. Since this day, questions raised by my six-year-old and seven-year-old are hard for me to answer. Why do people kill each other? How many bad people are there in the world? Why do people make bombs? It goes on. For my young sons peace of mind and happiness, I painted a heroic story that life will all be better soon after a superhero saves us. In my capacity as the Director General of the National Security think tank, I see this event as gross national security negligence. The Easter Sunday attack stands apart from previous faces of terror. Nine extremists turned the entire nation to a state of fear by killing the innocent. The targets were Christians and foreign nationalities to get the maximum global attention. Sri Lanka is a geo strategically blessed paradise island that lives with an 'existential threat (as my book further outlines). This is due to its internal disarray of politics and external geopolitics. Countries facing an existential threat for a long period of time tend to become a national security state according to John J.Mearsheimer. Out of its 71 years of independence, Sri Lanka has fought a brutal terrorist war for almost 30 years. Today there is another phase of terrorism: violent extremism. Certain liberal values introduced by the present government made our nation vulnerable and a soft target for terrorist to breed and function. What was seen by the West as an autocratic state under Rajapaksa was reset overnight, tagging Sri Lanka to a global liberal order. This was done at the expense of an ensured demilitarization and the complete dismantling and weakening of the countrys military apparatus. It brought prosperity to individuals without understanding the setbacks of liberalism. The principal of liberalism was confused with nationalism. Some policy makers saw one against the other to push agendas forward. Many extra regional nations came forward with certain agreements which had direct and indirect influences on our national security. Noncooperation with some powerful nations may lead to the assumption that certain powerful nations may have used a backdoor to enter the island using terror. Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith explained at a press conference warning that powerful nations could be behind these attacks. It is an urgent area for Sri Lankan national security to invest in serious research and investigation. This lacuna is due to the lack of support by certain policy makers. A glance at the support extended to Sri Lankas national security think tank will reveal its rank on the States list of priorities. The National Defence Policy is the leading document capturing all threats. It remains a classified document inside a cupboard for three years. None of the policy makers bothered to take this forward. The National Security think tank (INSSSL) at its internal Ministry of Defence discussion held in 2017 March identified the threat of extremism that could trigger in Sri Lanka and documented in its monthly threat forecast written in March and October of 2017 and subsequently in January of 2019 after the discovery of 100 detonators and explosives in the West coast of the Island. How did such warnings go unheard? This gross negligence was clearly due to the malfunction of processes within the government, perhaps due to political meddling within intelligence agencies and political division. The consequence is devastating and has dragged the entire nation to a state of fear, taking more than 350 innocent lives. When the state cannot manage the consequence of an extremist act, extremism presents a clear threat to national security. Extremist groups can operate in emerging democracies, while also finding operational space in failed or failing states. Post war Sri Lanka was a soft target for extremist to creep in due to the political instability with two sets of instructions flowing in from the bipartisan government. I have indicated multiple times the grave danger to national security from the existing political instability of the country. It was not even a month ago when President Trump announced, we just took over 100% of the IS caliphate, in a victorious speech seeing the end as the last bullet was fired in the IS held Syrian town of Baghouz, on the banks of the Euphrates River. Lina Khatib, an expert from Chatham House, UK who analyzed the victory of the U.S., British, and French-backed Kurdish and Arab coalition, said, "The group itself has not been eradicated,The ideology of IS is still very much at large. She states that IS will revert to its insurgent roots as it moves underground, using the territorial loss as a call to arms among its network of supporters. Joseph Votel, the top American general in the Middle East, warned: "(The caliphate) still has leaders, still has fighters, it still has facilitators, it still has resources, so our continued military pressure is necessary to continue to go after that network. In the same manner Prof. Rohan Gunaratna, the international terrorist expert, analyzed how this spilled over to Sri Lankan attack. He stated, With a vengeance, the returnees from Iraq and Syria and diehard supporters and sympathizers in their homelands responded to the call by the IS leadership to avenge Baghouz, the last IS stronghold. The indoctrinated personalities and cells attacked Buddhist shrines and broke Buddha images. At least 41,490 international citizens traveled to Syria and Iraq to join ISIS, according to ICSR; this is at least 50 each month. A total of 41 Sri Lankan Muslims from two extended families travelled to Iraq and Syria. There were many individuals who migrated as refugees to Sri Lanka from Muslim nations in the last several years. The members of the IS branch that staged the attacks in Sri Lanka believed in martyrdom. They were educated and mostly from upper middle-class families. This is a different scale and complexity of threat when compared to the LTTE threat. The extremist bombers were calm. One bomber even gently holds a child just before his suicide. This shows they were well trained for months and perhaps years. Some see this as a retaliation to the Christchurch attack, which took place last month. The Christchurch footage was used for election campaigns in Turkey weeks after the attack. It was used by a political leader to win popular support, which will further divide the Christian and Muslim communities in the same way as President Trumps Muslim ban did soon after his victory. The danger in such populist acts by politicians will further polarize and lead towards a clash among two great civilizations. ISIS tentacles reached NTJ in Sri Lanka in 2017, among another group globally. The spillover from the Baghouz defeat affected Sri Lanka, the Island nation who was at the top of tourism, ready to participate for Belt and Road 2nd Forum and celebrate its 10 years of success in eradicating terrorism this May. The Sri Lankan attack was the single largest killing in a day by a terrorist outfit in the Islands history. Despite sophisticated security services the nation possessed during the three-decade battle, there were intelligence and security limitations. It was a gross national security negligence that the entire nation fell victim to. The answer for this could be seen as intelligence information was withheld and not flowing into political decision makers. Such endemic security failures were in plain sight, even in the United States over the 9/11 attacks. The CIA found that available intelligence did not flow to political decision makers. Despite multiple warnings from Indian intelligence before the attacks took place, the extremist cell NTJ was identified months and years before by the Islamic community leaders as a threat. Steps to Strengthening Military Intelligence: The Sri Lankan government will have to develop several immediate steps first to strengthen military intelligence and the handling of cross border intelligence sharing among other nations as this sort of terrorism require a multi-pronged, multi-jurisdictional approach. Secondly, it is necessary to protect our vulnerable communities who could be targeted through the spreading misinformation and disinformation in the social media, which could lead to communal riots. Religious leaders have a great role in promoting religious harmony in this environment. Third, while operational intelligence on arresting the perpetrators will go on, the analysis of intelligence data will be an important step to understand the real root cause behind the attack. Fourth, a complete post audit of the security negligence should be done by the government to understand where the limitations had come from, and should be addressed immediately. The accountability of negligence has to be pointed out and those responsible should be charged or fired. Finally, external support from other nations should be taken only for intelligence sharing and building capacity to combat extremism, and not to sign any other security agreements that could have security implications in the long run. In the coming months, the deradicalization of the radicalized youth will be another essential part we would need to invest in. The government and civil society will have a massive duty on managing the spreading of hatred and division among different ethnic and religious groups. A collective effort from society will be necessary to defeat extremism. Just as the manner in which the Sri Lankan Muslim society assisted to defeat the LTTE, they will assist to defeat extremism within the island. The simplest act of kindness and service from each one of us to reclaim unity will be an honor to respect the lives we lost in 4/21. Sri Lanka will respond to terror with strength and hope- more unified than ever before. (Asanga Abeyagoonasekera is Director General of the National Security Think Tank of Sri Lanka (INSSSL) under the Sri Lanka Defence Ministry, author of Sri Lanka at crossroads(2019). Views expressed in this article are authors own. A version of this article first appeared on www.insssl.lk ) Primarily, I recommend heightened national vigilance, maintaining contact with responsible members of the Sri Lankan Muslim community and close cooperation with international partners dedicated to the reduction of Islamic extremism. by Nilantha Ilangamuwa The most sophisticated coordinated terror attack in the history of Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday kills over 250 unarmed innocents while leaving hundreds more of people with life-changing wounds. This was the first assault on the nation by the Islamic Terrorism. The so-called Islamic State has taken the responsibility of the heinous crimes while local as well as foreign intelligence agencies warned further attack by the members of Islamic extremism. Lawrence Sellin who is a retired U.S. Army Reserve colonel with branch qualifications and assignments in Special Forces, Infantry, Chemical and Medical Services talked with Nilantha Ilangamuwa in an exclusive interview on prevailing threats by the extremists and Easter Sunday attack in Sri Lanka. Col. Sellin served in Afghanistan and Iraq and participated in a humanitarian mission to West Africa. Sellin holds a Masters Degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College and received training in Arabic, Kurdish and French from the Defense Language Institute. He has a distinguished civilian career in medical research and international business after completing a Ph.D. in physiology. Excerpts; Question: Col. Sellin, thank you for joining us. I believe this is the very first interview you are giving to the Sri Lankan press. Tell us about you and your service as one of the senior military officers deployed in Middle East! Answer: Yes, this is my first interview with the Sri Lankan press. I served 29 years as an officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. Unlike active duty personnel, Reservists have parallel civilian careers, which, in my case, was in the international information technology business after approximately 15 years in medical research for which I obtained a Ph.D. in physiology. I am a graduate of the U.S. Army Special Warfare School, commonly known as the Green Berets, and I have branch qualifications and assignment experience in Infantry, Chemical and the Medical Services Corps. I served two tours in Afghanistan, the first as an embedded trainer with the Afghan Army, which took me all along the Afghan-Pakistan border from Nuristan to Helmand Provinces. For the second tour, I was a staff officer at the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Headquarters in Kabul. I was deployed to northern Iraq in 2008-2009, where I was involved efforts to improve counterinsurgency command and control and defensive measures against, for example, attacks using anti-armor grenades (RKG-3) and various types of improvised explosive devices whether fixed or vehicle-borne. I was also responsible for the humanitarian component of a special operations mission to West Africa in 2007, where we delivered medical, dental and veterinary services to rural villages. Q. You are a member of the Citizens Commission of National Security. Tell us about the role of this initiative. A. The Citizens Commission on National Security is one group of which I am a member. It is composed of individuals with experience in the military, intelligence, diplomacy, legislation, and the media to exert an impact on the strength and security of America by holding both politicians and the media accountable for policy formulation and accurate reporting. Q. Do you think US foreign policy on Middle East and elsewhere did not address the root causes of the problems but caused towards further worsening? A. Like all countries, the U.S. has had both successes and failures in foreign policy. The root causes of problems are not always obvious at the time a decision is required, they vary by local conditions and they often evolve over time. It is, therefore, only in retrospect can we most effectively analyze and learn from both successes and failures in national policies. In some cases, I think U.S. involvement improved the situation, in some cases not. Q. What are the positive achievements of the USs military interventions in Middle East? A. Because it is too early in a strategic sense to evaluate them, I would not describe them as achievements, but certain courses of actions, I think, were necessary, like the defeat of the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. On the other hand, I think there has been too much eagerness on the part of recent U.S. administrations to intervene when it shouldnt or to intervene appropriately, but then employ strategies that proved counterproductive. Obamas Arab Spring policies were a total disaster. The removal of Saddam Hussein was beneficial to the Iraqi people, but the invasion and the methods implemented subsequently ended up destabilizing and disrupting a balance of power in the region, unnecessarilybenefiting Iran. Although the 2001 removal of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan was the correct course of action, the counterinsurgency and nation-building approach did not address the problems created by Pakistan, which has ultimately led to a failure after an initial success. Q. Islamic extremists group are mushrooming around the globe. Their latest testing ground is South Asia. Why is the US and its alliance unable to vanquish this problem, though adequate resources have been allocated to implement the strategies? A. Although based on the select interpretation of religious tenets, Islamic extremism is an international problem not substantially different from other totalitarian threats such as fascism or communism. At this stage, Islamists use the techniques of subversion i.e. radicalization, infiltration of target societies and anarchist-like violence to achieve its aims of a global caliphate and the implementation of sharia. The instigators of that extremism and operating continuously in the background are the global promoters of austere and often intolerant forms of Islam such as Wahhabism-Salafism, financed either by wealthy individuals or nation-states that offer forums for radicalization and sources for potential jihadi recruits. Al Qaeda and the Islamic State, for example, are brands or franchises more than specific entities, who exploit local and regional grievances or power vacuums and provide the operational arm for radicalized jihadis in terms of terrorist training and support. Combating the terrorist network requires a coordinated international effort addressing the radicalization process, stopping the international financing, often involving the narcotics trade, and, in particular, sanctioning the nation states acting as facilitators. Q. Some reports have been published saying that the USA is funding the Islamic Extremists. In fact, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria known ISIS is nothing but their creation. What do you think? A. The Islamic State as a U.S. creation is total nonsense. Such a claim is misinformation or classical Freudian projection, accusing others of what you yourself are doing. There are, however, cases where the U.S. badly misjudged the groups it supported, a good example being Obamas disastrous Arab Spring policy and the U.S. interventions associated with it. Q. You were highly critical about Pakistan. In many of your writings, you have pointed that Pakistan, especially its state spy agency known as Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI), is sponsoring the Islamic extremists. However, the US has a long history of maintaining a goodwill relationship with Pakistan. Dont you think the US has the responsibility for course correction in Pakistan? A. The Trump Administration may have turned the corner on U.S. relations with Pakistan, finally recognizing Pakistans duplicity regarding its relationship with the U.S. in the Afghanistan war. While accepting U.S. aid, Pakistan has been conducting a proxy war against Afghanistan and the U.S. through its support of the Taliban. Pakistan is an ally of China and its aims in Afghanistan have never coincided with those of the U.S. I believe we will see a further U.S. alignment with India and an increased U.S. propensity to support sanctions against Pakistan for its facilitation of Islamic extremism. In all those respects, Pakistan has chosen to make itself an enemy of the U.S. Q. In your recent article about Jihads infiltration to South Asia, you have discussed Easter Sunday Bombings in Sri Lanka. That was paradigm shift in the Island nation. Do you think Sri Lankas War on Drugs caused this move of Islamic Extremists who are getting large funds out of selling drugs? A. There is no doubt that Islamic extremists use drug trafficking and other criminal activities to support their violent operations. It is a means to an end. The Easter Sunday attack was ideological, not a response to Sri Lankas actions to prevent illicit drug sales. If anything, the bombings should motivate the Sri Lankan authorities to undertake greater efforts to block that source of terrorist financing. Q. Many conspiracy theories are popping up over the Easter Sunday Bombings in Sri Lanka. Some of them are arguing it is an act of Saudi Arabia with the help of US intelligence agency to dismantle the Chinese involvement in the Island nation. In fact, leaked alleged classified letter by Saudi Arabian Foreign Ministry to its embassy in Colombo warned of such attack days ahead. How do you look at them as a military veteran who fought some of the most difficult wars in the century? A. I think Sri Lanka is aware and increasingly wary of Chinas debt-trap diplomacy. Of course, the U.S. does not wish Sri Lanka to become overly dependent upon or obligated to China. Any concerns that the U.S. may harbor, however, could be easily resolved through normal discourse within the context of the decades of friendly relations between the U.S. and Sri Lanka. It is truly absurd and delusional to believe that the U.S. would involve itself or even be privy to such a heinous crime that took place in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday. Serious suggestions of that nature can only originate from a deliberate disinformation campaign. There are now widely published reports that India provided warnings several times starting weeks before the attack. It is said that alerts came from the Sri Lankan Muslim community itself and alarm bells should have been set off by the January seizure of explosives by Sri Lankan security forces. It is possible that Saudi Arabia might have suspected a possible attack given the connections between the bombers and a variety of Saudi-funded Wahhabi/Salafist organizations and feedback obtained from them. But it all remains speculation at this point. Q. Sri Lanka is fresh ground for ISIS terrorism, though extremist thoughts started spreading in the Island since the mid-80s. What is your advice to the people in the governing system and law enforcement agencies in Sri Lanka on conquering this new threat? A. Primarily, I recommend heightened national vigilance, maintaining contact with responsible members of the Sri Lankan Muslim community and close cooperation with international partners dedicated to the reduction of Islamic extremism. Radicalization is the first step in the recruitment of violent jihadis, where the monitoring of social media has an important preventative function as well as the adjudication of local grievances. International connections and the movement of suspects involving terrorist financing, training or links to the intelligence services of facilitating nation-states are of equal importance. Nilantha Ilangamuwa, former editor of Sri Lanka Guardian Even before ISIS claimed responsibility, the attacks had no obvious connection to the insurgency, war crimes, and terrorism that afflicted Sri Lanka between 1983 and 2009 by Jonah Blank On Easter Sunday, a nation that had already seen far too much violence was subjected to even more. Almost simultaneously, suicide bombers hit three churches and three hotels across Sri Lanka, killing more than 250 people and wounding another 500. Before this tragedy slides into the pile of events too far away from America to generate continued attention, it is worth dismantling a few myths that might prevent better preparation for similar attacks in the future. The first misconception is that the attacks are a continuation of Sri Lanka's civil war. Yes, the bombings took place in this small, tortured island. Yes, the victims and the likely perpetrators were mostly local. But the audience for, and ambitions of, this assault were almost certainly global. Even before responsibility was claimed by ISIS, this violence had no obvious connection to the quarter-century of insurgency, war crimes, and terrorism that afflicted the nation between 1983 and 2009. The group responsible for the bulk of the nonstate violence, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been extinct for a decade. The manner of its termination might well spark a new round of slaughter someday: According to a United Nations estimate, perhaps 40,000 people were obliterated in the final five months of the conflict alonemost of them by the Sri Lankan military. But even if the LTTE were to come back from the grave, it would not look like this. An ethno-nationalist movement claiming to represent Tamils of the north and northeast, the LTTE had a well-defined target list (security forces, members of the majority Singhalese community) that bore no relation to the recent assaults. Another myth links this attack to supposed longstanding religious enmity in Sri Lanka. The country's civil war was fought between members of different communitiesbut on ethnic and political grounds, not religious ones. The majority community is ethnic Singhalese, and the LTTE is ethnic Tamil, but the conflict was not based on religion. The LTTE was always an anachronism: an old-school 20th-century national liberation movement, staggering on into the 21st century. Most Tamils are Hindu (a significant minority are Muslim), and most Singhalese are Buddhist, but there are significant Christian communities in both groups. Sri Lanka has not been immune to religious violence, but it has tended to come from radical Buddhist militias sometimes led by militant monks. In 2014, the Bodu Bala Senaled by ordained monksinstigated anti-Muslim riots that caused several deaths and dozens of injuries. Muslim militias have been both the perpetrators and victims of violence. But Christians have never before been targeted for their faith. When they have killed or been killed, they have done so as Singhalese or Tamils, as civil servants or as insurgents. A third myth is that this sort of attack couldn't happen elsewhere. It couldand the fact that it appears to have been directed by ISIS shows that this group is very much a threat throughout the world. The suicide bombers and local facilitators in the Easter attacks appear to have been associated with the National Towheed Jamaata group with no prior history of any action remotely on this scale, and no demonstrated capability to mount such an intricately-planned, ruthlessly well-executed act of mass-murder. There aren't a lot of groups with the expertise to carry out an operation like this. ISIS has a history of taking credit for attacks which it has merely inspiredbut in this case, there was almost certainly a highly professional external sponsor. ISIS may have selected Sri Lanka this time, but it can be counted on to choose any target of opportunity. Perhaps the most dangerous misconception is that these attacks were retaliation for the mass shooting of worshippers at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. This claim, reportedly made by the suspects in detention, was relayed by Sri Lanka's Minister of Defense. It may well have been what the suspects saidbut it is almost certainly false. The Easter attacks were far too complex and sophisticated to have been slapped together in the five weeks between March 15 and April 21. Each of the six sites had to be extensively surveilled, logistics arranged, supplies acquired, expert bombmakers trained or brought in. It is not very difficult to kill a dozen people. It is (fortunately) far harder to kill hundreds. The attackers in Sri Lanka and New Zealand did share a common goal, howeverto drive a wedge between Muslims and Christians worldwide, and fuel a cycle of violence between the communities across the globe. Neither group of terrorists represents its coreligionists, but both are willingeven eagerto see those who share their faith kill and be killed for it. By exploding the myths surrounding the Easter attack, perhaps we can make this more difficult for them. Jonah Blank is an adjunct senior political scientist at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation. This commentary originally appeared on Fox News Channel on May 4, 2019. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis. The partnership comes as Egypt preps for the hosting of Africa Cup of Nations this summer, and ahead of the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in 2020 Egypt and CNN are beginning an expanded partnership on a worldwide extended tourism campaign established in May that exhibits contemporary Egypt across an innovative mix of TV, digital and social media platforms. In an official press release Tuesday, CNN said the fresh partnership between Egypts Ministry of Tourism and CNN International Commercial (CNNIC) will witness both sides working collaboratively for the global campaign to enrapture and excite Egypts key audiences worldwide. According to the statement, the objective of the deal comes under Egypts plan to accelerate its tourism growth through showcasing the beauty of the country and its diverse destinations and the warmth hospitality of its people to CNNs global audience. The partnership comes under Egyptian Minister of Tourism Rania Al-Mashat's vision of developing sustainable tourism and aiding Egypt in bolstering its tourism industry under the Egypt-Tourism Reform Programme (E-TRP). The partnership comes as Egypt preps for the hosting of Africa Cup of Nations this summer, and ahead of the inauguration of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in 2020. The diversification of marketing and media platforms, a key pillar of the Egypt-Tourism Reform Programme, contributes to the changing narrative of the sector. The combined appeal of the beauty of Egypt and warmth of our people is the foundation of the significant growth in our countrys tourism, El-Mashat said. Vice president of CNN International Commercial Cathy Ibal said: This new partnership takes our nation branding work with Egypt's Ministry of Tourism to a new level by leveraging the cumulative impact of all CNN platforms, content and technology to ensure that the beauty of Egypt and its people resonates deeply with the right audiences. Advertising will be placed adjacent to relevant content such as CNN Travel on digital platforms, using first-party data to reach specific segments and engage with CNNs audiences showing interest in editorial content about Egypt, according to the statement. Egypt has been working on boosting its tourism industry, which suffered major blows following the 2011 revolution and later political and economic instability. In March, El-Mashat said that the tourism sectors growth rate rapidly increased, recording 16.5 percent, which exceeds the international average. Search Keywords: Short link: TO VIEW MORE NEWS STORY, PLEASE CLICK ON NEWS TAB ON MAIN MENU BAR What happened? a friend asked. I didnt know what to say. Hani died. Hani Shukrallah. But who was Hani to me, and who was I to him? One answer is: former colleagues. Former friends. But saying that is the same as saying nothing. I began working at Al-Ahram Weekly in 1990 or 91. I had just started university and my mother had found a job proofreading at the newspaper, which was still being born. We did most things together, she and I, and money was tight, so we were both glad to find work, and doubly glad we could work together. It was Hani who overruled the sceptics tutting at twenty-year-old me and let me start proofreading; then, when he realised I had a schoolteachers love of grammar and a teenagers contempt for authority, he gradually gave me more important work. I started editing and then writing. Soon, Hani and I became friends. He was the person whose presence brought my voice out, the person who triggered floods of ideas. We would chain-smoke and laugh hysterically and get totally carried away talking about primitive accumulation in nineteenth-century Egypt. Five or six of us would work late and go out afterwards several times a week, talking and joking for hours, putting off the moment when we had to part ways. It was like discovering a whole new family, fun and irreverent and fiercely loyal. Working with Hani, being part of the Weekly family, for me, was synonymous with discovering Cairo, discovering politics, stepping into a new kind of independence and awareness of what could be. I could embrace being a nerd and a misfit and a potential crazy cat lady, because my work family embraced all those things about me too. Hani regarded my academic trajectory with wry affection, showing me his thesis and expressing regret at not having continued regret that was really a way of saying he was proud of me and approved of what I was trying to do. One of the things I discovered later was that this was his superpower: the ability to see people for who they needed to become, the ability to nurture and hear tentative voices. That was what made him such a stellar mentor: his patience, the quality of the attention with which he lavished his proteges, the utterly authentic excitement that shone in his eyes when he discovered someone talented and sincere. He recognised people's ability to do something new. He could see what was worthwhile in a turn of phrase or a new way of writing, encourage it with irresistible conviction, coax it out and beam proudly as its author gained confidence and bloomed in the light of his approval. In some ways, too, I recognised Hanis voice, as an intellectual and a writer. He was an astute and principled analyst, with a gift for twisting the knife into the very heart of a story. For a long time, he insisted on my editing his work and we would argue about turns of phrase or ideas. Perhaps he trusted me because he knew how much I believed in his powers of analysis and saw myself only as a polisher, there to make his brilliant ideas shine more brightly. He didnt really need me or any other editor, though; he was enough of a perfectionist to need only reassurance. Hani and I were friends, best friends even, for a time. And then things fell apart, as they do messily and painfully. I ended up leaving the Weekly and refused to speak to him for years. When I did, it was to utter the most hurtful words I have ever told anyone. They brought no relief, but in my anger I felt they needed to be said, felt a kind of glad rage that I could smash whatever affection and respect remained. And then less than two years ago I heard that Hani had had a heart attack, and I wrote to him to say I was sorry and wished him well. Ive just been rereading those last messages and crying not just because an important and long-lost part of my life is gone so decisively, but because we were once, as he said, almost family. I needed to remind myself that we were ok at the end, that we forgave each other even though we could never be friends again; that we must always, always forgive people weve loved. He told me he had been writing an article on the October Revolution. I dont know if it was ever published. Im sorry; Im sad; Im bereft. Ill miss thinking that we might see each other again some day, that we might have another good-natured argument after all. Bon voyage, fellow traveler ... hes the one, come to think of it, who taught me what that expression meant. Bye, Hani; bye, old friend. He died on Marxs birthday; did he realise it? Maybe he had time to smile at the end. *Pascale Ghazaleh is associate professor of history and chair of the History Department at the American University in Cairo and a former journalist and editor in Al-Ahram Weekly *This article was first published in Al-Ahram Weekly Search Keywords: Short link: DGAP-Ad-hoc: Dexus Finance Pty Limited / Key word(s): Corporate Action/Corporate Action Dexus Finance Pty Limited: Institutional placement allotment and cleansing statement 08-May-2019 / 03:11 CET/CEST Disclosure of an inside information acc. to Article 17 MAR of the Regulation (EU) No 596/2014, transmitted by DGAP - a service of EQS Group AG. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE IN THE UNITED STATES 8 May 2019 Dexus announces issue and allotment under institutional placement and adjustment to exchange price of convertible notes Dexus Funds Management Limited ("DXFM") as responsible entity of Dexus ("Dexus") refers to its announcements made to the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX"): on 2 May 2019, relating to a fully underwritten $900 million institutional placement (" Placement "), and a non-underwritten Security Purchase Plan (" SPP ") for eligible Dexus Security Holders in Australia and New Zealand to raise up to $50 million [1] ; and "), and a non-underwritten Security Purchase Plan (" ") for eligible Dexus Security Holders in Australia and New Zealand to raise up to $50 million ; and on 13 March 2019, relating to the exchange price ("Exchange Price") of the A$425 million Guaranteed Exchangeable Notes ("Notes") issued 19 March 2019. Allotment of Dexus Stapled Securities under the Placement In relation to the Placement, Dexus has received the offer proceeds of approximately $900 million and now attaches the cleansing notice under section 1012DA(5)(e) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) in relation to the issue and allotment of new Dexus Stapled Securities. Adjustment of Exchange Price of Notes In relation to the Notes, Dexus advises that the issue and allotment of new Dexus Stapled Securities under the Placement results in an adjustment to the Exchange Price of the Notes. Dexus advises that the adjusted Exchange Price is A$15.00. Dexus also advises that there may be a further adjustment to the Exchange Price under the Notes on the date that any new Dexus Stapled Securities are issued under the SPP. The full announcement including a copy of the cleansing statement is available at www.dexus.com/investors/all-news-and-media For further information please contact: Investor Relations Rowena Causley +61 2 9017 1390 +61 416 122 383 rowena.causley@dexus.com Media Relations Louise Murray +61 2 9017 1446 +61 403 260 754 louise.murray@dexus.com [1] DXFM may (in its absolute discretion) in a situation where total demand exceeds $50 million, decide to increase the amount to be raised under the SPP to reduce or eliminate the need for a scale back. DXFM may (in its absolute discretion) in a situation where total demand exceeds $50 million, decide to increase the amount to be raised under the SPP to reduce or eliminate the need for a scale back. 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In addition, the New Securities to be offered and sold under the SPP will only be offered and sold to eligible Security Holders in Australia and New Zealand in "offshore transactions" (as defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act) in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States. Information and Explanation of the Issuer to this News: About Dexus Dexus is one of Australia's leading real estate groups, proudly managing a high quality Australian property portfolio valued at $28.9 billion. We believe that the strength and quality of our relationships is central to our success, and are deeply committed to working with our customers to provide spaces that engage and inspire. We invest only in Australia, and directly own $13.9 billion of office and industrial properties. We manage a further $15.0 billion of office, retail, industrial and healthcare properties for third party clients. The group's $5.0 billion development pipeline provides the opportunity to grow both portfolios and enhance future returns. With 1.7 million square metres of office workspace across 53 properties, we are Australia's preferred office partner. Dexus is a Top 50 entity by market capitalisation listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (trading code: DXS) and is supported by 27,000 investors from 19 countries. With more than 30 years of expertise in property investment, development and asset management, we have a proven track record in capital and risk management, providing service excellence to tenants and delivering superior risk-adjusted returns for investors. www.dexus.com Download the Dexus IR app Download the Dexus IR app to your preferred mobile device to gain instant access to the latest stock price, ASX Announcements, presentations, reports, webcasts and more. 08-May-2019 CET/CEST The DGAP Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases. Archive at www.dgap.de 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. Head of the National Council for Women (NCW) Maya Morsy has paid tribute to President Abdel-Fattah El Sisi's decision to release "gharimat" (indebted female inmates) on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. In a statement issued today, Morsy expressed happiness over President El-Sisi's humanitarian gesture on the occasion of Ramadan, saying the president always sides with the poor to bring back cheerfulness to their hearts. She added the president has been keen on supporting the gharimat financially, to establish projects for them with the aim of improving their living conditions. According to Morsy, some gharimat are put in prisons over failure to pay back trivial debts which sometimes do not exceed EGP 1,000. On Sunday, the interior ministry's Prison Authority Sector pardoned 89 indebted inmates on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. The inmates' debts were paid through funding offered by Tahya Misr Fund. The measure is in line with El-Sisi's initiative dubbed "Prisons without Debtors". Search Keywords: Short link: Former Al-Ahram Weekly managing editor, acting editor, and founder of Ahram Online was an editor who never conformed and a beacon to light the way It is impossible for any of the senior staff of Al-Ahram Weekly today to remember the day before Hani Shukrallah joined the paper. Hani was first seen in the corridors of the fourth floor of the Al-Ahram building in Cairo one fine summers day with his life-long friend and at the time Weekly opinion editor Mona Anis a little over a year after the first edition of the newspaper appeared in February 1991. Dressed informally and smiling whole-heartedly, he took his seat at the head of the papers central desk in the small office where it had started at the far end of the Al-Ahram newsroom. From the beginning he felt uncomfortable about sitting with his back turned on Bahgat Badie and Fouad Al-Gohary, then home and features editors, who had joined from the world of foreign news agencies in Cairo. Hani resented turning his back on people not because he thought it was unbecoming but because he felt it was unkind. He would often move his chair around to talk to people, always with an unfailing smile. He also smiled when he spoke to the copy-editors of the time, Olfat ElTohamy, Alan Nicol and Roland Trafford-Roberts. He might dislike the copy, especially if it came across as carrying shades of even unintentional or remote orientalism, which he saw as an insult to the paper and its readers. However, even if he disliked the copy, he would simply explain and ask for corrections, or, more likely, just fix what had to be fixed himself. It is not easy today to remember Hani working on a copy when all the staff around him were using typewriters, maybe because Hani was always so advanced or even revolutionary in his mind and soul that it is difficult over a quarter century later to remember him in association with things that are now so bygone. But it is impossible to forget the image of Hani sitting before one of many generations of Apple computers, in an endless state of chain smoking, staring at the screen with passion and seemingly hoping that it would join him in bringing about the better phrasing of a paragraph that contained good information but lacked something in style. He did not look at his watch. It is difficult to think of Hani wearing a watch because for him time, like so many other things, was not necessarily what it was to others. Time for Hani was more like a space within which people would act, either promptly or leisurely. Getting things done was not just about getting them done either, for they had to be done with style. Throughout his years at the Weekly, whether as head of its central desk, managing editor, after first managing editor Mohamed Salmawy left to launch the Weeklys sister paper Al-Ahram Hebdo, or acting editor after the paper lost its founding editor Hosny Guindy, Hani never worried much about time, health or energy. But he did worry about putting out a decent copy that was both informative and accurate, what he would call basic, decent reporting. This should be decently written, he would say, adding that he wasnt asking for poetry just cohesion and clarity. He would firmly, but never harshly it is difficult to remember Hani being harsh even when he got into a rare stubborn mood reject copy that was just ink on paper, offering no regret or apologies. He would reject a copy, but never people it would be wrong to say reporters since he thought of the staff of the Weekly as people first. Instead, he would leave his office, walk the reporter in question into Al-Ahrams fourth-floor cafeteria, order coffee, and then explain. In the 1990s, when the Weekly moved to the ninth floor of Al-Ahrams new building, Hani would pass by a reporters office and take him or her, very often her, to the lounge and talk with one objective in mind to encourage the reporter to produce a better copy and insist that it would be better for the paper to miss a story than run a clumsy or under-reported piece. When Hani disagreed with an editor or a copy editor it was the same. Only rarely would he ever act otherwise. But Hani was not just a mentor, although this is what he was. He was also a very good editor who would know how to turn a story round from being tedious into an interesting read. Hanis magic most came into play when he wrote the headlines and leads of stories. Throughout his years at the Weekly, ending abruptly over certain political positions in 2005, Hani wrote almost every single headline and re-wrote many leads.The banner headlines on the papers front pages were also always Hanis. One dedicated reader of the Weekly once said that the paper had lost its flair and the punchiness of its headlines once Hani left. This was also not something that went unnoticed by the staff. When Hani left the Weekly, everyone felt shocked. Many of us would not have believed it to be possible, even though we knew that he was a member of the opposition and would never miss a demonstration against the Israeli aggression against the Palestinians or the US wars on Iraq. Even those who disagreed with Hani did not think it fair for him or the newspaper. Hani knew he worked for the establishment, but he also knew that there were some compromises he would not make just because he could not make them. In the same way, he had difficulty with conforming to all the establishments regulations and with traditional reporting styles or the wish of some to stick to the old ways of doing things. But at least he would be able to hold his head up high, no matter how his health or wealth might decline. Hani never claimed to be infallible as an editor. He always laughed when reminded of a typo that he had made under pressure in one of the banner headlines. He would admit misplacing assignments among some reporters or editors. But for the older staff of the Weekly, as for the younger who had the chance to work with and learn from him, these mistakes were overshadowed by Hanis presence. He was a friend who cared genuinely, who agreed and disagreed, and who was able to forgive and wished to be forgiven for any unintentional errors. There has not been a sadder day at the Weekly since the devastating loss of Hosny Guindy than Hanis death on 5 May. The paper will always be associated with the name of Hani Shukrallah, and those who worked with him will always remember his legendary presence in the newsroom. Hani will always be there. He will always be loved and always be cherished. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: A conscience for our times Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's Grand Mufti Shawki Allam has strongly condemned the suicide bombing outside the Data Darbar shrine in Lahore that left at least 10 people dead and 25 injured on Wednesday. Allam stressed that Islamic law categorically rejects all forms of terrorist attacks and intimidation of innocent people. He urged effective international cooperation to fight all forms of terrorism and eradicate its roots worldwide. Allam offered his deepest condolences to Pakistans president, government and people, wishing the injured victims a speedy recovery. According to initial police reports, the blast targeted a van carrying the Elite Force of Punjab Police. Retired Inspector-General Punjab Police Captain Arif Nawaz Khan confirmed that the attack was targeting the police force, adding that five police officials died in the blast. A security guard and civilians were also among the dead. Search Keywords: Short link: The military clash that flared between Israel and Gaza over the weekend ended as an Egyptian-mediated truce went into effect on dawn on Monday, the first day of fasting in Ramadan. Palestinians in Gaza held funeral ceremonies for their martyrs, including three women, two of whom were pregnant, two infants and a child. The conflict left a further 150 wounded and, according to Hamas government reports, Israeli bombardment destroyed 130 residential buildings and partially damaged 700 homes. Israeli Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi said that the Israeli army destroyed hundreds of military targets in Gaza during the two days of fighting, including arms depots and some ostensibly civilian infrastructure and buildings. He added that the Israeli army will continue to attack with force, as needed, wherever it is needed. According to reports in the Israeli press the Israeli army struck 320 civilian targets in Gaza. The resistance retaliated by firing 600 missiles into Israel, killing four Israelis, including one Arab Israeli, and causing extensive damage to property. Sources in Cairo told Al-Ahram Weekly that the truce will be implemented in two stages. The first calls for a cessation of hostilities and the return to conditions as they stood before the fighting, meaning diesel fuel supplies will resume, the fishing zone will be re-extended to 15 miles and crossings will reopen. In the second stage Israel will begin to lift the blockade of Gaza, allowing the construction of two industrial zones and a number of infrastructure projects to go ahead. The latest Israeli response against Gaza was more violent and intense than in previous rounds, Brigadier General Mohamed Ibrahim, former head of the Palestinian desk at the Egyptian General Intelligence Directorate, told the Weekly. This was to be expected given the political climate in Israel, with Prime Minister designate Benyamin Netanyahu in negotiations to form a governmental coalition. These are tough negotiations and involve representatives of the extreme right. Netanyahu wanted to convey the message that he would not go easy on Hamas, hence the massive Israeli bombardment and targeting of three Qassam Brigade field commands. The response was meant to be harsh, especially now Netanyahu realises Hamas is capable of threatening Israeli settlements in the south. Yet according to the Arab Israeli journalist and political analyst Jack Khoury, there is a quandary in Israel over how to handle Gaza. Invading Gaza to oust Hamas will not pave the way for the Palestinian Authoritys return there and Israel is not interested in occupying the Strip and trying to control two and a half million civilians in dire straits. Khoury told the Weekly by phone that Israel is aware of the dangers posed by the humanitarian situation in Gaza and has tried the tactic of allowing aid into the Strip in small doses. It is a tactic that Palestinian factions and Gazas general population reject. They fear the drip feed could become permanent and are now convinced that if conditions in Gaza are not allowed to improve the only alternative is escalation. Despite a general impression that Netanyahu offered concessions these did nothing to change the situation in Gaza. Ultimately, the latest round of fighting was simply another episode in a long series in which the casualty counts and the destruction get worse, Khoury said. Before, and during, the fighting over the weekend Hamas and Islamic Jihad security officials were in Cairo, making it, as one security official noted, one of the rare occasions when Hamas fires missiles into Israel while it simultaneously has a delegation in Cairo. Islamic Jihad Secretary-General Ziad Nakhal warned that if any harm comes to Palestinian resistance fighters as a result of systematic targeted assassinations we will respond with full force and target major cities regardless of any understanding that has been or will be signed. We will have no red lines, he insisted. Israel killed several Hamas and Islamic Jihad leaders during last weeks hostilities, most notably Abdullah Al-Madhoun, a commander in the Islamic Jihads military wing, the Quds Brigade, which announced it had lost six fighters during the battle. Mohamed Abu Shaar, a political analyst from Gaza who spoke to the Weekly by phone during the funeral of one of his relatives who had been killed in the fighting, said that in retaliating to the Israeli bombardment Hamas had expanded the range of its targets to include Eshkol, Ashkelon and Beersheba. Hamas realised that this was not a convenient time for Netanyahu to go to war and had opted to pressure him in order to achieve some gains for the cause. The fact that the Eurovision contest is scheduled to take place in Israel was clearly advantageous, though Abu Shaar also feels the timing might have something to do with factional rivalry. While Islamic Jihad has always coordinated with Hamas, Hamas sensed the group was seeking to ratchet up its responses. I think Islamic Jihad wanted to convey some messages abroad, especially to Iran. Tellingly, it claimed responsibility for firing the Badr-3 missiles that targeted Ashkelon, says Abu Shaar. Brigadier General Mohamed Ibrahim says Hamas, in particular, has grown more sophisticated in its responses to Israel. Hamas now understands what Israeli buttons to push and it calculates its responses carefully, perhaps even more than Israel does. He believes that despite this new-found nuance, Hamas is basically applying the same policy it has pursued since its coup in Gaza in 2007. It has found that turning up the heat on the ground bears fruit in the form of Israeli relaxation of restrictions against Gaza. It has acquired expertise in what we might term the costs of escalation. On the other hand, Israel has set a ceiling on what it will pay. It will allow the opening of the crossings, the entrance of commodities and fuel, an expansion of the permissible fishing zone. Speaking from Ramallah, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohamed Shtayyeh stressed the need to rise above differences. He announced plans to send urgent medical aid and humanitarian relief to Gaza. Hamas responded with a ferocious attack against the Palestinian Authority (PA), charging that the PAs sanctions are the other face of the aggression against Gaza. Palestinian Legislative Council member Hassan Kharisha demanded that the PA lift its retaliatory measures against Gaza immediately and start to remedy the effects of the aggression. It is necessary to rise to the level of the wound that has been inflicted on Gaza. Everyone must realise that any sanctions against Gaza coincide with the goals of the occupation which seek to force the resistance to its knees, he said. Shortly before the latest military flare-up, in a separate but related development, Ismail Haniyeh, chairman of the Hamas Political Bureau, invited PA President Mahmoud Abbas to return to the Palestinian reconciliation process in order to avert the repercussions of the so-called deal of the century. An informed source in Cairo says this is mere posturing. In form theres initiative, and Egypt has been indefatigable in its efforts to help talks resume. But in substance there is no hope of Hamas being serious about reconciliation. Haniyeh does not have the ability to make such a decision. He can only talk. Abu Mazen [Mahmoud Abbas] realises this on the basis of 12 years of accumulated experience. The main question now, according to Khoury, is whether Egypt, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Nikolay Mladenov and Qatar can manage to defuse the crisis. Egypt is the one mediator that can assert pressure on both sides while Mladenov will be able to act in the event of any understandings being reached between the two sides. The big question now, Khoury says, is whether the Qataris and the UN can inject money into Gaza, and whether Israel will allow the money in, so that the Palestinian people feel real change rather than slogans. This is the only thing that will alleviate the crisis. Otherwise, well go back to incendiary balloons to which Israel will respond by bombarding the Strip. Will the current truce hold? Khoury observes, firstly, that the Eurovision contest coming at the same time as Israeli independence day is an incentive for Israel to adhere to a ceasefire, if only to win time. Lets not forget that Kushner plans to unveil his plan after Ramadan and he cant do that in a war climate. Its in everyones interest not to re-escalate. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Pause, or a longer halt? Search Keywords: Short link: Welcome, DISH customer! Please note that we cannot save your viewing history due to an arrangement with DISH. Watchlist and resume progress features have been disabled. ACCEPT Boko Haram fighters have killed nine people in two separate attacks in northeastern Nigeria, looting and torching a village and ambushing three farmers, officials and local militia forces said Wednesday. Fighters packed in trucks stormed into the village of Molai just before sunset on Tuesday, when villagers were preparing to pray and break their fast for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The jihadist gunmen, loyal to Boko Haram chief Abubakar Shekau, killed six people and burned dozens of homes. Usman Kyari, who heads the state Emergency Management Agency, said six bodies were collected after the attack. All had been shot dead. "The insurgents burnt around 40 homes and looted goods," Kyari said. Molai, which is five kilometres (three miles) from Borno state capital Maiduguri, has been repeatedly attacked by the jihadists. A member of a militia force, which fights alongside regular government soldiers, said the Boko Haram fighters were too many and they were overpowered. "We all withdrew from the village," the militia soldier said. Later, Nigerian aircraft bombed the area, and the jihadists retreated, he added. In a separate attack, Boko Haram fighters killed three farmers near the town of Konduga, 38 kilometres (24 miles) outside Maiduguri, militia leader Ibrahim Liman said. "The gunmen slit the throats of the farmers and dumped their bodies," Liman told AFP. The militants often kill farmers, loggers and herders, accusing them of passing information to the army. Boko Haram's decade-long uprising to establish a hardline Islamic state in Nigeria's northeast has spilled into neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon. A regional military coalition is battling the Islamist group. At least 27,000 people have been in killed in Nigeria alone, and some two million others from their homes. Search Keywords: Short link: Protest leaders on Wednesday accused Sudan's Transitional Military Counsel (TMC) of delaying the transfer of power to a civilian administration, amid disagreements over the country's new governance structure after president Omar al-Bahir's ouster. The two sides are grappling over whether an overall ruling council should have a civilian or military majority. Last week the Alliance for Freedom and Change protest group handed over its proposals for a civilian structure, including executive and legislative bodies, that it eventually wants to rule the country after replacing the generals. The 10-member TMC late on Tuesday said it agreed to the overall proposals, but had "many reservations". The protest leaders said on Wednesday that the military council was delaying the entire transfer of power. "The military council's response... is moving in the direction of extending the negotiations and not in the direction of a transition" of power, the alliance said in a statement. The protest movement said the military council was looking to "prolong the negotiations" after the generals took over following the toppling of Bashir on April 11. The military council said the alliance had remained silent on ensuring that Islamic sharia remains the bedrock of Sudanese legislation. The protest leaders say the generals had "raised irrelevant issues including the language and sources of legislation in a tedious repetition of the biddings of the former regime". "We call on the military council to reach an agreement to transfer power," they said. The Alliance for Freedom and Change is made up of several political groups, leaders and activists, many of them of the view of building a new secular Sudan. Kidnap the revolution Sudanese media and websites have often reported that for the protest leaders the issue of legislation and Islamic law is something that can be discussed later, but they first want a civilian body established in order to govern the country. The protest movement said the miliary council is acting in a way that seems to "kidnap the revolution and control its outcome". "The only choice for our people is comprehensive peaceful resistance until the revolution's demands are achieved." Thousands of protesters remain encamped outside the sprawling military headquarters in central Khartoum since April 6. Initially they gathered there to seek the army's support in ousting Bashir. But now they continue to hold their sit-in against the army council, demanding that it step down and transfer power to a civilian authority. The military council and protest leaders have differed on several issues and not just the composition of an overall ruling council. The military council wanted a two year transition period as opposed to four years proposed by protest leaders. The military council was also of the opinion that declarations of emergencies be in the hands of a "sovereign" authority and not the cabinet as proposed by protest leaders. Protest leaders have often called the military rulers the "remnants of the regime" of Bashir. The council also revealed on Tuesday that Sudan's former head of the feared National Intelligence and Security Service, Salah Ghosh, had been put under house arrest. It was Ghosh who oversaw security agents' sweeping crackdown on protesters before the fall of Bashir. Protest leaders however insist that their key demand remains the same, a full transfer of power to civilians. "The solution and success of the revolution lies on transfer of power to a full civilian authority," protest leader Mohamed Naji al-Assam said on Tuesday. Search Keywords: Short link: Iran announced on Wednesday it was relaxing some curbs to its nuclear program, announcing steps that stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers for now, but threatening more action if countries do not shield it from U.S. sanctions. Hours later, the United States said it was not finished imposing sanctions on Iran and planned more very soon. It warned Europe against doing business with Tehran via a system of non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions. A year to the day after Washington exited the nuclear deal, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced changes that experts said seemed tailored to ensure Tehran avoids triggering the deals mechanism to punish it for violations, at least for now. For now, nothing changes, but this could be a ticking time bomb, a European diplomat told Reuters. The main new measure that takes effect now would have limited practical impact: a halt to Irans sales of enriched uranium and heavy water to other countries. The deal allows such sales so Iran can keep reducing its stockpiles below maximum thresholds, but Washington already effectively barred the sales with a sanctions move last week. For now, Irans stockpile of enriched uranium is still well below the deals cap and heavy water is less sensitive. THREAT TO ESCALATE ENRICHMENT Rouhani also threatened that in 60 days Iran would resume enrichment of uranium beyond the low fissile purity - suitable for civilian nuclear power generation - allowed under the deal, unless the five other powers signed up to it found a way to protect Irans oil and banking industries from U.S. sanctions. If the five countries came to the negotiating table and we reached an agreement, and if they could protect our interests in the oil and banking sectors, we will go back to square one, Rouhani said in a televised address. The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA, he said, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. These are actions in line with the JCPOA. The 2015 accord was signed between Iran, Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and the United States, before President Donald Trump took office. Iran agreed to limits on its disputed nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions. Washingtons European allies opposed Trumps decision to pull out and have tried, so far in vain, to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions, which include an all-out effort to block Irans oil exports to throttle its economy. France and Germany both said they wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive, and warned Iran not to violate it. Our position remains that we want to stick by the agreement, especially to prevent Iran from gaining possession of a nuclear weapon, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said, stressing the pact was crucial for European security. Russia and Iran both blamed the United States for what they portrayed as Tehrans forced decision to suspend some pledges under the nuclear deal, while putting the onus on European powers to guarantee sanctions relief for Iran. The Kremlin accused Washington of provoking Irans move. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin had predicted consequences from the unthought-out steps of U.S. withdrawal. Now we are seeing those consequences. China said the deal should continue to be implemented and called on all sides to exercise restraint and pursue dialogue. The Trump administration says the deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed as it is not permanent, does not address Irans ballistic missile program and does not punish it for waging proxy wars in other Middle East countries. Tim Morrison, a special assistant to Trump and Senior Director for Weapons of Mass Destruction and Biodefense, told a conference that Washington was not done with imposing sanctions on Iran. Expect more sanctions soon. Very soon. Morrison said the United States would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to fray the U.S. sanctions noose around Iran. He advised them not to use a so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to enable non-dollar trade with Iran. If you are a bank, an investor, an insurer or other business in Europe you should know that getting involved in the ... Special Purpose Vehicle is a very poor business decision, Morrison said. IRAN TREADS CAREFULLY Nuclear arms control experts said Irans steps announced on Wednesday appeared calibrated to avoid setting in motion renewed sanctions under a snapback mechanism in the 2015 accord. Mark Fitzpatrick, an associate fellow of the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Iran was not yet close to exceeding its allowed stockpile limit of low-enriched uranium, and its heavy water stockpile was a comparatively minor issue. Enriching (uranium) to 20 percent would surely spark sanctions, so I expect in 60 days there will be various technical reasons why it cant be done right away, he said of Rouhanis threat to exceed the enrichment purity limit to levels farther along the road toward high-enriched, bomb-grade uranium. The weeks leading up to the anniversary of Trumps withdrawal from the agreement have seen a sharp tightening of U.S. sanctions and an increase in tensions on other fronts. From this month, Washington has effectively ordered countries worldwide to stop buying Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. The Trump administration has revoked waivers that had allowed some countries to continue buying Iranian oil and it aims to reduce Iranian crude exports to zero. Washington has also blacklisted Irans Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist group. Iran responded with threats to close the Gulfs Strait of Hormuz - the conduit for about a third op the worlds seaborne oil exports - if its ships were blocked there. AIRCRAFT CARRIER, B-52 BOMBERS Washington announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Middle East to counter what it says are clear indications of Iranian threats to U.S. forces there. Tehran said the USS Abraham Lincoln was merely replacing another carrier under a scheduled rotation, and called the U.S. announcement old news. The U.S. military confirmed the deployment was already scheduled but said the carriers movement was being expedited due to heightened tensions with Iran. The looming total ban on oil sales is likely to sharply increase the economic hardship for Irans 80 million people. Finding a response is the biggest test yet for Rouhani, a pragmatist who has faced strong opposition from hardliners. The nuclear deal was his flagship policy to end Irans isolation and open up its economy to the world. Ultimate authority in Iran lies with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a cleric in power since 1989, who signed off on the nuclear deal but remains close to the hardline faction challenging Rouhani. Washingtons European allies say Trumps repudiation of the deal weakens the pragmatic wing of Irans leadership and plays into the hands of hardliners. It means ordinary Iranians see no economic benefits from Rouhanis efforts to open the country. Trumps hard line is backed by Israel and Washingtons Gulf Arab allies, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which see Iran as a foe and which gain leverage over global oil prices by keeping Iranian crude off the market. Search Keywords: Short link: Are you looking for a challenge that will not only test your skills, but also strengthen your mind? A Logic puzzle Only 2% of its participants can solve it. This means that out of every thousand users, only 20 were Hong Kong: Gov't responds to EU report The Government today said foreign institutions should not interfere in the internal affairs of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. It was responding to media enquiries about a report on the city by the European Commission and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs & Security Policy. The Government said the HKSAR has been exercising Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong and a high degree of autonomy in strict accordance with the Basic Law since its return to the Motherland. The one country, two systems principle has been fully and successfully implemented and human rights and freedom in Hong Kong are fully protected by the Basic Law, the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other legislation, it said. Noting the Basic Law stipulates the HKSAR is an inalienable part of the Peoples Republic of China, the Government said any suggestion for Hong Kongs independence is a blatant violation of the Basic Law and a direct affront to the national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the PRC. For other issues mentioned in the report, the Government said that it has been handling Hong Kong affairs strictly in accordance with the one country, two systems principle, the Basic Law and the laws of Hong Kong. On environmental protection, the Government said it has been taking comprehensive actions to reduce emissions from different air pollution sources. Concentrations of major air pollutants have gone down by more than 30% since 2013, it added. This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The AKP in Turkey is ready to use any means against the opposition to prevent it from future electoral gains The awaited decision has finally been made. Turkeys High Election Board (YSK) decided Monday to accept an appeal by the Islamist Justice and Development Party (AKP) for a re-run of local polls in Istanbul on the basis of irregularities. While President Recep Tayyip Erdogans Islamist party gained most of the seats in municipal councils and won most of the districts, it lost the biggest three cities: Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir. My people tell me the elections should be renewed. I have not spoken until now, Ive been silent. But everyone else has spoken. Enough already, Erdogan said Sunday. There is a controversy here, its clear. There is an irregularity here, thats clear too. Lets go to the people and see what they say and whatever the outcome, we will accept it. But the history of Erdogan and his party with the opposition inevitably leads to questions on whether he will stop at the legal stage. Mass arrests, closure of anti-AKP media outlets, removal of thousands of state employees based on claims of being supporters of Fethullah Gulen a US-based cleric after the 2016 coup attempt and efforts to block social networks were all signs that Erdogan has chosen a non-democratic path for the country in previous years. For Ahmet Kuru, political science professor at San Diego State University, Erdogan is the most powerful political leader of Turkey since 1950 as he controls not only the bureaucracy but also the parliament, judiciary and media. Yet, Kuru, author of a new book called Islam, Authoritarianism and Underdevelopment, believes that Erdogan is in a tough position that will limit his attempts to weaken the opposition due to fragile financial conditions, growing public criticism and the lack of ideological consistency. He [Erdogan] is willing and able to use any means against the opposition. Yet he also has three main weaknesses. First, the Turkish economy has been facing a financial crisis. Second, about half of Turkish society is critical of Erdogan. Third, Erdogan has failed to provide a consistent ideology, which can be comparable to Kemal Ataturks Kemalism, stated Kuru. The elected Republican Peoples Party (CHP) mayors, particularly Istanbuls Ekrem Imamoglu, have already started to challenge Erdogans political hegemony. These mayors are now shaping public debates, which were previously dominated by Erdogan per se. In the short run, these mayors do not have much capacity to restrict Erdogans socioeconomic policies, or repression of opposition figures. Yet, in the long run, these mayors may constitute a deeper challenge if they promote a new public discourse based on democracy, liberal values, productivity and toleration. There is a great possibility that Erdogan, who reportedly said in 2017 that if we lose Istanbul, we lose Turkey, is concerned about history repeating itself. The first big step in Erdogans political career which began during the 1980s as member of Necmettin Erbakans Welfare Party was his election as mayor of Istanbul in 1994. He was then credited for solving a number of its local problems such as those related to trash and access to freshwater. When Erdogan became prime minister following the AKPs victory in parliamentary elections in 2002, his economic achievements including solving a financial crisis that hit Turkey in 2001 and achieving growth rates that reached eight per cent in 2010 and 2011 helped the Islamists to be victorious side in almost every electoral race. Halil Karaveli senior fellow with the Turkey centre of the Central Asia-Caucasus Institute & Silk Road Studies Programme Joint Centre referred to another concern for the Turkish regime: the Kurdish factor. Karaveli pointed out that the Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) directed its voters to vote for the opposition parties in the big cities, arguing that Erdogan pushed for a presidential system to limit Kurdish influence specifically. The presidential system that was introduced last year was to ensure that the influence of the Kurds in Turkish politics is neutralised as they became a major force in parliament. If you put most of the power in the hands of the presidency, you ensure that the Kurds dont have the capacity to be kingmakers, he explained. But the results of the municipal elections showed that despite the fact that the regime introduced a presidential system in which a parliament is almost powerless, the Kurds still decided the outcome, especially in Istanbul where there is a major Kurdish population, stressed Karaveli. Karaveli, anticipating that the regime will make sure the AKP will win if a re-run in Istanbul takes place, noted that it might resort to acts of terrorism or violence, referring to the recent attack on CHPs leader Kemal Klcdaroglu on 21 April during the funeral of a soldier who was killed in fighting against Kurdish militants. I think that was an attempt to kill him [Kemal Klcdaroglu], which would have provoked his supporters to stage huge protests, leading the regime to declare martial law and cancel the elections. I think this was the plan, at least as speculation from my side, he said. Erdogan recently faced a number of criticisms from both opposition and AKP figures. Istanbuls new CHP Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, addressing supporters, said it has been 36 days since the elections ended. Some people are doing everything they can for the Istanbul vote not to be concluded, Imamoglu said. You are elected, even if it is by one vote. Klcdaroglu slammed Erdogan, the AKP and the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), their ally, of pressing the YSK to hold a re-run in Istanbul. The most remarkable criticism arguably came from Ahmet Davutoglu, former AKP leader, top diplomat and former premier. The fact that our party, which remained the only political actor capable of managing this entire process, began to expend its own energy on the provocations and manipulations of certain power centres that disregarded the national will to play a leading role in these conspiratorial processes, served to shake our internal harmony, as well as restricting our capacity to forge and implement a fresh vision, Davutoglu said in a lengthy Facebook post. Meanwhile, HDP leader Selahattin Demirtas currently in jail wrote for The Washington Post: Thousands of members of the Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) who should currently be participating in politics including me are in prison on political grounds. The security forces continue to harass and obstruct those members of our party who remain free. Many of us have been criminalised and deemed terrorists by government officials. And yet my party, which I co-chaired for many years, still showed its strength in these latest elections, Demirtas said. Lenore Martin, associate for Harvards Centre for Middle Eastern studies, underlined the fact that the municipal elections are the last scheduled elections until 2023, which explains why the opposition cooperated and worked hard to make gains in it, for it was feared there would be no chance to challenge the almost complete power of the AKP over government and policymaking by then. Yet, Martin emphasised that Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir is not something the AKP is going to easily give up as we see in their protestation about the legitimacy of the elections, specifically Istanbul, which has a strong symbolic value for him [Erdogan] personally, for it brings enormous opportunities for patronage and awarding contracts which AKP has used prodigiously. This matter, for Martin, was another motive for the opposition parties, specifically the CHP, to win big in municipal elections, as being in control of the cities again gives CHP a chance to govern close to the people and to perhaps reveal more of AKPs decisions on contracts and appointments. She referred to the example of the new mayors in the Kurdish southeast areas who were elected in March, as they found their cities left bereft of funds. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: The political battle over Istanbul Search Keywords: Short link: Vincent van Goghs relationships centre stage in an exhibition at Het Noordbrabants Museum from 21 September 2019 to 12 January 2020 Het Noordbrabants Museum presents Van Goghs Inner Circle: Friends, Family, Models. The exhibition sheds light on the people who played an important role in both the life and work of Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890). With some 90 paintings, drawings, letters and documents, the visitor receives a thorough introduction to this inner circle. With this exhibition, the museum challenges the accepted image of the tormented, solitary artist and shows that, despite his often-difficult relationships, Van Gogh was highly valued by his friends and family as a person and as an artist. Van Goghs Inner Circle is curated by Sjraar van Heugten, former Head of Collections at the Van Gogh Museum and independent curator. The person behind the artist Vincent van Gogh was a passionate man, who sometimes had complex relationships with his family, friends and fellow artists. In some cases, these relationships were close and enduring, but some also ended in estrangement, due to his forthright character. In the exhibition, the most important people in Van Goghs life appear in roughly chronological order, from his years in Brabant and The Hague, through the periods in Paris and the south of France, until his death in Auvers-sur-Oise on 29 July 1890. His immediate and extended family circle, his friendships with artists such as Anthon van Rappard, Anton Mauve, Emile Bernard, Paul Gauguin, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Paul Signac, but also his love affairs are examined. The visitor learns more about the artist through drawings and paintings of those in his inner circle as well as through often very personal documents letters, sketchbooks and thus gains insight into the person behind the artist. Works on loan never previously exhibited and masterpieces The works on loan hail from Dutch collections, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Kroller-Muller Museum, supplemented by several special loans from abroad. The exhibition also includes work and documents owned by private collectors. Furthermore, it brings together many rare documents, the existence of which is virtually unknown to the general public: a sketchbook for Matthijs Maris, never previously shown sketchbooks by Van Gogh for Betsy Tersteeg, daughter of the art dealer H.G. Tersteeg in The Hague, but also a privately owned and seldom exhibited letter from Vincent to Paul Signac and six rarely seen condolence letters to Theo van Gogh, from Camille Pissarro, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Paul Gauguin, and others. Among the absolute masterpieces are Still life with Bible (1885) from the Van Gogh Museum (Vincent van Gogh Foundation), Madame Roulin Rocking the Cradle (La berceuse) (1889) from The Art Institute of Chicago and LArlesienne (Madame Ginoux) (1890) from the Galleria Nazionale dArte Moderna e Co temporanea in Rome. Special attention for Theo van Gogh Certain subjects receive extra attention in the exhibition. For example, there is a niche for Theo van Gogh (1857-1891), undoubtedly the most important person in Van Goghs life. Nobody knew Vincent better than his brother Theo, who characterized him in a letter to their sister Willemien (Paris, 14 March 1887) as follows: Its as if there are two people in him, the one marvellously gifted, sensitive and gentle, and the other self-loving and unfeeling. The friendship between the brothers and their shared love of art and literature is illustrated in, among other things, the painting Portrait of Theo van Gogh (1887), a book of poetry from Vincent to Theo from 1874-1875 and a book with 42 pasted prints, presumably belonging to Theo van Gogh, all from the Van Gogh Museum. The book of poetry in particular provides a poignant impression of their brotherly love. Catalogue The exhibition is accompanied by a richly illustrated catalogue in collaboration with WBOOKS, with an extensive article by guest curator Sjraar van Heugten and an essay by Helewise Berger (curator of 19th and early 20th century art at Het Noordbrabants Museum). English and Dutch, 240 pages, c. 200 colour illustrations, softcover, UK/ISBN 978 94 625 8339 9, 24.95. The exhibition Van Goghs Inner Circle is made possible by Rabobank s-Hertogenbosch en Omstreken, Turing Foundation, Stichting Zabawas, Stichting Leye Fonds, Coovels Smits Stichting and Stichting N. van Ballegooijen Fonds. Brabant icon Vincent van Gogh was born in Brabant, in the south of the Netherlands, in 1853. This was the beginning of his exceptional talent and his headstrong character. The locations in Brabant where Van Gogh lived and worked have joined forces under the name Van Gogh Brabant. The story of his life is told in three heritage centres, 39 Van Gogh Monuments and through a collection of his original works in Het Noordbrabants Museum. Visitors can learn about Vincent, with a close-up view of his childhood years in Zundert to the beginning of his career in Etten, and from his drawing lessons in Tilburg to his first masterpiece in Nuenen. Het Noordbrabants Museum Verwersstraat 41, s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands www.hnbm.nl Events in Sudan are taking a turn familiar to previous revolts in sister Arab countries. The toppled president is being investigated for corruption by the state prosecution which he created as counter-revolution clouds loom over the country that is witnessing a partial fissure in its revolutionary camp. Sudans Chief Prosecutor Al-Walid Sayed Ahmed ordered the interrogation of removed President Omar Al-Bashir over money laundering and terror finance charges, the countrys official Suna news agency reported. High-profile officials in the former regime will be investigated for financial crimes, Ahmeds bureau said in a statement. A security unit confiscated 7 million, 5 billion and $350,000 from Al-Bashirs presidential palace. The overthrown president was transferred to Kobar, a maximum-security prison in north Khartoum. Sudans army toppled Al-Bashir on 11 April after demonstrations swept the country against his three-decade rule. He is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for war crimes and crimes against humanity during the 2003 war in Darfur. Its good news Al-Bashir is investigated and tried. But he shouldnt be interrogated as a thief. He is a murderer. He should also be tried for dividing and ruining the country, said Sudanese journalist Mohamed Al-Asbat, one of the spokesmen of the Sudans Professionals Association (SPA) which has spearheaded the demonstrations since they broke out 19 December 2018. Wide-ranging protests erupted in Darfur demanding Al-Bashir be handed over to the ICC for masterminding genocide and crimes against humanity during the bloody violence that rendered 300,000 people dead in the western region of Darfur. Protesters requested deposing vice-president of the Transitional Military Council (TMC) General Mohamed Hassan Dagala, better known as Hemeti, who leads the Rapid Support Forces implicated in the Darfur massacre. It is no secret Hemeti, who hails from an Arab tribe in Darfur, is not a graduate of the military school, nor did he serve in the Sudan army. The general dropped out of school at the age of 15 to become a camel keeper. He then provided security services to merchants camel convoys headed to Chad, Egypt and Libya where the expensive beasts were sold. Despite the lack of strong evidence incriminating Hemeti for committing war crimes in Darfur, a number of the regions politicians, opposition figures and armed movements are pointing their accusing fingers. Al-Asbat says tensions are boiling below the surface between Sudans opposition bloc and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. At its core, it is a tug-of-war between the TMC and Declaration of Freedom and Change forces. The Declaration Forces are not united, however. Cracks in the Declaration blocs ranks appeared in conflicting reactions the political movement showed when the TMC proposed forming a security council alongside a sovereign council. News reiterated from Khartoums news agencies reported that the sovereign council shall be civilian in its majority with a military president and vice-president, while the security council shall be composed by a majority of military men. The TMC proposal was accepted by the National Umma Party, said one of the party figureheads, Seddik Al-Sadek Al-Mahdi, son of its leader. The proposed arrangement was one way to begin mending fences between the military and the opposition, said Seddik Al-Mahdi, adding that his party will work on convincing the remaining Declaration forces to accept it. Omar Al-Doqeir, president of the Sudanese Congress Party, an affiliate of the Declaration bloc, said his party accepted the TMC proposal in principal. Al-Doqeir admitted that civilian forces hastened to present to the TMC a constitutional declaration, to which he had several reservations. Nevertheless, Al-Doqeir emphasised the notion of a civilian Sudan. This is what the people want, he said. The revolution [bloc] cannot reject everything. The two-councils proposal will be the subject of negotiations with the TMC to decide on the division of seats between the military and civilian blocs, Mohamed Dawoud, the Sudanese Congress Party representative in Cairo, told Al-Ahram Weekly. The Sudanese Communist Party, on the other hand, announced its rejection of forming two councils. The party, part of the Declaration alliance, said in a statement of which the Weekly obtained a copy, the TMC proposal opens the door to counter-revolution forces. We refuse the inclusion of a military man, as president or member, in a sovereign council, added the Sudanese Communist Party statement. The idea of a composing a military council for national security outside the civilian institution was rejected by the Sudanese Communist Party. A national security council is a body composed by and affiliated to the cabinet which draws up its tasks according to the countrys needs, explained the statement. The SPA, Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement North (SPLM-N), and the Popular Congress Party, founded in 2000 by late Islamist leader Hassan Al-Turabi have not revealed where they stand on the TMC proposal. The proposal is a major shift in the militarys position. In the beginning, the military demanded a sovereign council made of 10 members, seven of which from the military, and it rejected the proposed 15-member council, in which eight would be civilian, said Al-Asbat. This is an attempt by the military to reach the best possible formula to preserve their merits, I believe, the journalist added. But the present security threats cannot be underestimated, which is why the civilians are led to seek the help of the military to get over them. But this help will not be without sacrifices. The inter-disputes consuming the Declaration alliance may lead to its disassembly and work in the favour of counter-revolution forces, opined Al-Asbat. The Declaration of Freedom and Change forces is an umbrella bloc for several political powers that share no common interest save for toppling Al-Bashir and eradicating his regime. The Declaration alliance gathers the Islamist Popular Congress Party together with conservative parties with Islamist ideology such as the National Umma Party and the Unionist Alliance affiliated to Al-Khatmeya sect and headed by Osman Al-Mirghani. The Declaration bloc includes, also, liberal parties such as the Sudanese Congress Party and a number of Unionist groups who oppose Al-Mirghanis leadership, in addition to the Sudanese Communist Party and the SPLM-N, which is based in the Blue Nile and South Kordofan regions. There are political players that do not function under the Declaration umbrella, nonetheless, including political forces in Darfur and east Sudan, as well as Islamists who defected from Al-Bashirs regime during his last decade at the helm, such as the Islah Party, currently headed by Islamist figurehead Ghazi Salaheddin, and other Islamist movements who remained loyal to Al-Bashir until his downfall. A fissure in the ranks of the Declaration forces will benefit none other than the Islamists, their traditional allies and the SPLM-N, who are pushing towards holding elections by all means, said Al-Asbat. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: Double-headed Sudan? Search Keywords: Short link: For the second time in less than a month, Jason D. GreenblattUS President Donald Trump's Assistant and Special Representative for International Negotiationsdenied reports that a portion of Egypt's Sinai would be given to Gaza as part of a Middle East peace deal. "Oddly, I am still hearing reports about this my original tweet still stands", Greenblatt tweeted on Wednesday, referring to a tweet he posted last month. "Hearing reports our plan includes the concept that we will give a portion of Sinai (which is Egypts) to Gaza. False! Please dont believe everything you read. Surprising & sad to see how people who dont know whats in the plan make up & spread fake stories," Greenblatt wrote on Twitter on 19 April. The new tweet by Greenblatt came after a report by Israel Hayom, an Israeli newspaper, which claimed that it received a copy of the deal proposed by Trump's administration, widely known as the "deal of the century." Egypt, according to Hayom, would lease new lands to a new Palestinian state, and that an airport, factories and agricultural and trade areas will be built. However, the Palestinians would not be allowed to build homes on these lands. The size of the lands and their price would be in accordance with an agreement between the parties involved in the deal. The newspaper also added that the document stipulates that the borders of the Gaza Strip with Egypt and Israel would be opened for the movement of goods and people. Greenblatt has visited several countries in the Middle East in the last two years as an envoy of President Trump to push the US president's view for comprehensive peace in the region. Search Keywords: Short link: The United States will need to keep counterterrorism forces in Afghanistan until there is no insurgency left in the country, the top U.S. general said on Wednesday, suggesting a far longer military presence even after more than 17 years of war. "I think we will need to maintain a counterterrorism presence as long as an insurgency continues in Afghanistan," Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford said during a congressional hearing. The United States is currently in talks with the Taliban to seek an end to the nearly 18-year-long conflict. Search Keywords: Short link: Montreal, CA (H4T1V6) Today Periods of snow. Some mixed winter precipitation possible. High -6C. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 90%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected.. Tonight Occasional snow showers. Low -6C. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 60%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. Lior Raz, the star and co-creator of the Netflix series Fauda, has spoken to two sold out Montreal audiences since the blockbuster hit debured. Both those appearances were only after season one aired. With shooting now underway for season three, it is the turn of co-creator Avi Issacharoff to be in the spotlight. He will be at Congregation Shaar Hashomayim in Westmount on May 14 as part of the Canadian Associates of Ben-Gurion University of the Negevs annual main event. Fauda tells the story of Doron (Raz), a commander in a special unit which pursues Hamas terrorists. Fluent in Arabic, Issacharoff served in an elite commando unit of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) known for its work in Arab territories before graduating cum laude from Ben Gurion University, later adding an MA in Middle Eastern Studies and Literature from Tel Aviv University, where he now lectures. He then began his journalism career as a radio news reporter and Middle East Affairs correspondent for Israel Radio After publishing two award-winning books on the second Palestinian uprising and the 2006 Lebanon war, he joined the Haaretz Newspaper as its Palestinian and Arab Affairs correspondent. By 2015, Fauda premiered on Israels Yes Network and soon after became international hit on Netflix, broadcast in 190 countries. It has won multiple Ophir (Israeli Oscar) awards for best drama, actor, screenplay, cinematography and more. The New York Times named Fauda the best international TV series of 2017. Guests will gather for cocktails followed by a conversation between Issacharoff and National Post columnist Barbara Kay. Besides Fauda, they will discuss on Israeli politics, the recent election, conflict with Palestinians and broader relations with the Arab world. "The intensity, artistry and high intelligence that characterize Fauda have captivated viewers around the world, myself included, said Kay, who follows her son Jonathan Kay as host of last years record-breaking event which featured prominent US businessman Bill Browder. I am delighted at the prospect of discussing this brilliant project's evolution with its co-creator. While the first two seasons of Fauda have seen Razs character operate within the West Bank, season three will see the scene shift to the Gaza Strip What were trying to do is more or less to keep the sense of Fauda but to do it in a different way, to change something, not to continue with the same characters, to break the rhythm a little, Issacharoff said. Issacharoff and Raz are also working on a new show for Netflix calld Hit and Run. It is about a happily married man whose life is turned upside down when his wife is killed in a mysterious car accident.Two-thirds of the show were shot in the US and one-third in Israel. As an Israeli political analyst, Issacharoffs understanding of the situation in Israel and the Middle East promises to be very perceptive, added Jack Altman, CABGU Quebec president. We are proud that he is a BGU graduate. Proceeds from the event will support research in cancer and nanothechnology. For ticket information log on to www.bengurion.ca. Ragheb will discuss his current show 'Smells Like Teen Spirit', which examines masculinity and social constructs Youssef Ragheb will hold on 11 May an artist talk at Soma Gallery where he will discuss his current exhibition there. Ragheb's solo show 'Smells like Teen Spirit' is a body of work that includes comic art, drawings, and paper cutouts. In it he examines the social constructs of masculinity in a society, drawing links between a Freudian view of puberty and a male-dominated dystopia, while presenting a comic commentary. His imagery reflects the mentality of several generations; an obsession with guns, sex, drugs, aliens, particle colliders and ideals, to imperialist notions, hydrogen bombs, space races and world domination. Through pop culture references, Ragheb critiques the testosterone-driven systems of the world, and envisions the dystopia in which they collapse in on themselves. Born 1975, Ragheb holds a BA, MA and PhD from the Faculty of Art Education, Helwan University. His work ranges from painting, drawing and digital interactive installations. Since 1995, he has exhibited his works both in Egypt and abroad. He is also a freelance illustrator and an art professor. He teaches at the University of Helwan and the Soma Art School, as well as at the American University in Cairo, where he provides training in both analogue and digital art practices, including comics, painting and illustration. Programme: Saturday, 11 May, from 8.30pm till 9.30pm. SOMA Art School & Gallery, 3 Al Adel Abou Bakr Square, 3rd floor, Apt. 9, Zamalek, Cairo For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture Search Keywords: Short link: The end of the Islamic State group in Syria and Iraq does not mean that its threat to global security is over The world breathed a sigh of relief when the last stronghold of the Islamic State (IS) group in Baghouz in eastern Syria fell in March, ending a nightmare that had lasted since June 2014 when it established its foothold in the region and proclaimed its global caliphate. Due to international complacency and a series of defeats of the Iraqi and Syrian militaries, IS managed to declare its state, which was bound to be temporary despite some believing it could prevail in a chaos-stricken region. The group managed in record time to expand in territory that almost matched the size of the United Kingdom, but the seeds of its demise and its lack of viability fortunately doomed this caliphate of delusion. Even so, the destruction, massacres and ethnic cleansing that IS committed in both countries and others in the region during its expansion will go down in history as the worst atrocities the century has seen, and it will take years if not decades for these countries to revive from the damage caused by IS. The end of the group in Syria and Iraq and the fall of its last stronghold also do not mean that the IS threat to global security is over. The groups twisted aims, based on Muslim Brotherhood literature by founder Hassan Al-Banna and adopted by IS and other Islamists, will not wither away that easily. The dreaming of the groups leader, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, a former Muslim Brotherhood member, of a global caliphate may be temporarily over, but the group is scrambling to find another chaos-stricken region in the world in which to resurrect it. The most volatile area where the terrorist group has settled and where it has allies willing to fight for its twisted cause is the West African Sahel region. The existence of IS-affiliated Boko Haram and its allies among the Fulani militias in Northern Nigeria, Mali, Chad and Cameroon represents a chance for the terrorist group to re-emerge. The Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) is growing steadily as global efforts against IS have been focused on the Middle East and on thwarting the groups attempts to move to European countries. IS has also benefited from the lawlessness in Libya and managed to coordinate with Boko Haram to establish a presence in the region. On 21 April, the world woke up to another shocking terrorist attack by IS in the unexpected venue of Sri Lanka. The attack targeted three churches and two hotels in the capital Colombo, killing over 250 civilians and injuring over 500 others. Sadly, Sri Lanka is no stranger to violence, but the country has witnessed a decade of relative peace since the end of the civil war from 1983 to 2009. The Muslims of Sri Lanka are a minority of nine per cent from the 21.5 million population, and they have not been in conflict with other religious groups in the country, whether Hindus or Christians. An IS-affiliated group called the National Thawheed Jamaath claimed responsibility for the devastating attack that brought back harsh memories of the Sri Lankan civil war. The attack reminded many that the IS threat is by no means over, and the group has not been completely destroyed. The number of similar groups in Asia and Africa willing to sacrifice thousands to claim victory over governments in the name of a supposed caliphate is numerous. The IS-affiliated National Thawheed Jamaath is linked to the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen India (JMI), the Indian faction of the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh, for example. There are also other Asia-based terrorist groups linked to IS, including the Jaish-e-Mohamed and the Lashkar-e-Taiba, along with the Philippines-based Abu Sayyaf group that is unofficially known as the Islamic State in the Philippines. Similar groups exist in southern Russian republics such as Chechnya and Dagestan. Many of these groups have remained dormant for a while and do not utilise the same propaganda methods as IS in luring recruits from around the world. Instead, they wait for the right moment to find a security breach to strike heavily and cause severe civilian casualties. These groups cannot be taken lightly or with the complacency that the Sri Lanka government handled the IS threat after being warned of an imminent strike in the country hours before the attack took place. It is imperative that the captured militants and families of IS fighters face justice in the international courts for participating in terrorism and crimes against humanity. This is especially applicable to the groups foreign fighters who are now pleading with the governments of their own countries to be allowed to return. These terrorists have destroyed thousands of families and committed massacres beyond description, particularly in Iraq and Syria. The debate in some western capitals on the fate of the IS returnees should be settled in a manner that upholds justice for the countries and the people they have committed atrocities against. These terrorists should be handed over to the Syrian and Iraqi authorities to face justice in the courts and to pay the price for their evil deeds. This is the least that can be required of the Western countries that were complacent in their own security measures and in some cases looked the other way as the fighters flooded Syria and Iraq without lifting a finger to stop them. It is crucial to remain vigilant regarding IS attempts to resurrect its power in less-secure areas of the world, especially since Al-Baghdadi is still on the run and his whereabouts are unknown. Al-Baghdadi could be anywhere in Iraq, where he originates, or he could have moved to Libya where his allies are fighting the Libyan army. There is also a chance that he could have crossed the border into Turkey where many of the foreign fighters of IS have moved. The Turkish regime has been proved to have conducted trade deals with IS in the past, and according to Libyan army spokesman Ahmed Al-Mesmari it helped transport IS fighters from Syria into Libya to back the Islamist-supported Tripoli government. IS will continue to use its vile ethnic and religious cleansing methods as long as its members exist anywhere in the world, and therefore treating IS as a bygone problem that requires no more attention is the key to its re-emergence perhaps on a more fearsome scale. Just as the Muslim Brotherhood has moved around the globe over several generations, instilling its radical beliefs into those who are vulnerable to them, IS remains a source of terrorist rhetoric in the future. *The writer is a political analyst and author of Egypts Arab Spring and the Winding Road to Democracy. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: The future of Islamic State Search Keywords: Short link: NHLANGANO The soldier accused of killing his wife is said to have solicited the services of a hit man to carry out the murder. Menzi Mavimbela (31) was last week arrested for the murder of his wife, Zinhle Mndzebele (35), who was employed as a wardress by His Majestys Correctional Services. The woman was found hanging inside her house around KaPhunga last Monday, in what at first appeared like a suicide. The husbands confession to the murder came after investigators decided to take a fresh look into the alleged suicide. This was apparently after bruises were discovered on the dead womans head. As the investigation continued, the womans husband was initially considered as a suspect. This eventually led into police officers interviewing the man in relation to the murder he was suspected of committing. Confessed During the interrogation, he reportedly came out clean about the whole thing and confessed to arranging the murder. He apparently told investigators that he decided to kill his unforgiving wife after she kept pestering him about a child he got out of wedlock. He mentioned that the issue of the child greatly affected his marriage with his wife. He alleged that as a result, the woman began cheating on him. I got wind that my wife, alongside her new lover, was planning to kill me. So, I decided to act first, the man is said to have told investigators. Acting on the alleged tip-off, the suspect said he approached a certain man, who suggested a hit man to do the dirty job. Not only did he say he met the hit man but he went further to give him every detail about his wifes movements. The murder was eventually committed on a Sunday, two weeks ago, where the hit man made it to appear like a suicide. A rope was used to hang the womans body inside her house. However, during the attack she initially fell and hit the ground with her head, sustaining injuries in the process. These are the same injuries that led to police becoming suspicious about her purported suicide. An autopsy was conducted on the womans body and the outcome resulted in the investigation taking a new direction altogether. The victims husband, Mavimbela, was eventually arrested alongside the alleged hit man. Discovered Both men have already made a brief appearance at the Nhlangano Magistrates Court, where they also made separate confessions before a judicial officer. It is understood that the victims body was discovered by a neighbour. MANZINI Manzini has a mayoress! Jabu Shiba, who was a deputy mayor of the city in the previous term, was voted to the position yesterday night during the Municipal Council of Manzinis inaugural meeting which was held at council chambers. For this position, there were only two nominees and they were former Mayor Mxolisi Waxola Mabuza and the incumbent officer. Balloting After the balloting process, Councillor Shiba became victorious as she obtained seven votes while Councillor Mabuza managed to get four votes. On the other hand, Councillor Mduduzi Vilane became the new deputy mayor as he was the only one who was nominated for the position. He is taking a position which was occupied by Bishop Nash Shongwes son Bongani. Again, for the position of the Finance Committee Chairperson, Councillor Wesley Dlamini scooped the post uncontested and he is taking over from Councillor Jabu Shiba, who is now the mayor of the city. Furthermore, Councillor Khetho Dlamini became Finance Committee Vice Chairman after he was also uncontested. Meanwhile, Councillors Siboniso Nkabinde and Sandile Bhembe were elected as members of the Finance Committee. This was after they obtained eight and seven votes, respectively. It is worth noting that there were 11 councillors who participated in the voting process instead of 12 councillors. This follows the demise of Councillor Sipho Masuku, who died in a nasty car accident which took place near Dvokolwako on the night of Easter Monday. MANZINI The road carnage continues to claim lives of the citizenry as a manager of Eswatini Water and Agricultural Development Enterprise (ESWADE) lost his life yesterday. The accident happened along the Siphofaneni-Big Bend road next to Tambuti. According to impeccable sources, the accident happened yesterday, just after 2pm. It is said the manager, along with a passenger, were travelling in a white Isuzu bakkie. Truck The manager lost control of the vehicle and hit a truck that was ferrying crush stones on the side. Following this impact, according to eyewitnesses, the truck dragged the Isuzu bakkie with it as it skidded off the road. Both vehicles are said to have skidded a distance in excess of 100 metres from the spot of impact which led to both motor vehicles overturning. It is said when good Samaritans tried to assist the occupants of both vehicles and pulled them out, the passenger of the Isuzu bakkie was critically injured while the driver did not survive the impact. Also, the driver of the truck was discovered critically injured. Hospital They are said to have been rushed to the nearest hospital where the manager was certified dead while the other two were admitted. Sam Sithole, Chief Executive Officer of ESWADE said: As per the information given to me by the police I found on the scene of the accident, I can confirm that one of ours died. When he was contacted yesterday, at about 7:30pm, Sithole said he was enroute to report the sad news to the family of the deceased. He said details of what transpired during the accident were still scanty. Meanwhile, the ESWADE manager is the second senior personnel in a government parastatal to lose life in recent weeks. On April 26, 2019 Phumelela Shongwe, who was a General Manager at the Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC), died in a tragic car accident in Middelburg, South Africa. MBABANE Did Pastor Themba Trustworthy Mavuso take a counselling session with a teenage girl too far? The clergyman has since been arrested for allegedly raping a 16-year-old minor he had been tasked to counsel for her wayward behaviour Mavuso (52) of Extension 3 in Mbabane had been requested by the mother of the child to talk sense to her (teenager) after she exhibited unbecoming behaviour. However, the clergyman reportedly took advantage of the situation and allegedly proceeded to rape the minor two times last month. He has been charged with contravening Section 3(1) and Section 3) (a) of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act. Section 3 of the Act stipulates that an unlawful sexual act constitutes a sexual act committed under any of the following circumstances: in any coercive circumstances; under false pretence or fraudulent means; in respect of a person who is incapable in law of appreciating the nature of the sexual act; duress, psychological oppression or fear of violence. According to the Crown, Mavusos charge was accompanied by aggravating circumstances, in that the complainant was 16 years during the commission of the offence and was a person who was incapable in law of appreciating the nature of the sexual act. Mavuso made his first appearance at the Mbabane Magistrates Court where he was remanded in custody. Through his attorney Linda Dlamini of Linda Dlamini and Associates, Mavuso yesterday filed an urgent bail application at the High Court where he denied to have committed the offence. He informed the court that he was arrested by members of the Royal Eswatini Police Service and was subsequently charged with contravening the SODV Act. Wayward Narrating how he came to know the complainant, Mavuso submitted that sometime around March 2019, the girls mother approached him and requested that he speaks to her as she felt she was wayward. The man of the cloth said he did not object to the request and he informed the mother of the complainant that he would make means to speak to her daughter. Around the month of April, a date of which I do not recall, the complainant arrived at my residence and I surmise it was on the instruction of her mother following her complaints that her daughter was exhibiting wayward behaviour, submitted the pastor. He alleged that he tried to engage the complainant on several occasions during the month of April in an attempt to ascertain the source of the allegations against her by her mother. Mavuso claimed that during his engagement with the complainant, he established that the tension was caused by family problems. I advised the complainant that the family feuds were the fiercest and she should try by all means to keep peace with her elders. That was in line with the request and/or instruction by her mother, alleged the accused pastor. He averred that the charges against him were spurious and he suspected that the complainant was shielding the real culprit. The bail application will be heard at the High Court today and the Crown is yet to indicate its intention. Trumps proposed Middle East peace deal is to be unveiled within weeks. But by all indications, it wont have much to stand on The Trump administration promised weeks ago that its Deal of the Century to solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict would be unveiled after the holy month of Ramadan that began early this week. There is a lot of speculation about the contents of this much-expected deal, and some reasonable people would argue that it is pointless to speculate on something that remains a mystery, with conflicting signals coming out of Washington about the basic and guiding principles that provide the general framework of the deal and whether it would be subject to negotiations between the Palestinians and the Israelis or not. However, the White House has started sending out signals, lately, as to the nature of these guiding principles. The Washington Institute for Near East Policy hosted Jared Kushner, senior adviser to President Donald Trump, last Thursday, 2 May, to give a preview of what the administration would propose in this plan. He talked confidently about the prospects of its success as compared to previous peace plans and expressed hope that the parties concerned would not reject it out of hand. He believes that the major difference between this deal and other peace initiatives much is that it is operational rather than stressing a certain process of negotiating. He said openly that it would incorporate a heavy economic component. In addition, it would address the people more in the sense that one of its basic goals is to work for the betterment of their lives, particularly the Palestinians. In this regard, he pointed out that the American negotiating team working on the deal talked to a lot of Palestinians from different walks of life and found out that they are open to the economic dimension of the deal. From his own perspective, the plan is virtuous and would provide a fresh opportunity for the Palestinians and the Israelis to engage. He added that the major thrust of the deal, or the central balance that it aims at achieving, is to provide opportunities for the Palestinian people to better their daily lives while assuring the Israelis of their security. As to the political essence of the deal, Kushner tried to sound practical when the central question of a Palestinian state came up. He made it clear that if you say two-state solution, it means one thing to the Israelis, it means [another] to the Palestinians Let us work on the details of what this means. He stressed that the plan would cover final status issues between the Palestinians and the Israelis, including borders, refugees, security, Jerusalem and settlements. However, he did not talk in specifics as to how the deal would tackle these serious issues that have proven intractable, except to say that the deal would specifically state that Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. Surprisingly, Kushner said that the approach his negotiating team adopted has been if we are going to fail, we dont want to fail doing the same [thing that] has been done in the past. From his remarks, it sounds like the Trump deal would lean much more on the economic windfalls of the deal for the Palestinians and less on their national aspirations (to establish a state of their own), which have been the major drivers behind their freedom struggle in the past five decades. Kushner told his audience that the White House would make contact with various Middle Eastern leaders in the next few weeks to keep them abreast of the tenor of the Trump deal. Diplomatically speaking, it is too early to forecast the viability of the American deal. However, judging from the conversation Kushner had at The Washington Institute, it seems that the chances of success are not that great, despite the fact that he said Israel would have to make concessions under the plan he is drafting. The question of Palestinian sovereignty is not clear at least from the statements he has made on various occasions, including his public appearance last Thursday. From an Arab and Palestinian perspective, the major question has always centred on this sovereignty. In this context, the establishment of an independent Palestinian state has been the linchpin of Arab and Palestinian peace strategy with the underlying understanding that this would go hand-in-hand with assuring the security needs of Israel through measures that dont impinge on the independence and territorial integrity of the new Palestine. They even accepted the idea of land swaps between the Israelis and the Palestinians in case the Palestinians would agree to ceding some lands in the West Bank to come under Israeli sovereignty. One of the basic and serious drawbacks in the American peace strategy is that the two White House decisions concerning the recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel (6 December 2017) and the recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights (25 March 2019) have sapped trust in the Trump administration when it comes to its promises to work for a final peace between the enemies of yesterday, promises that remain unfulfilled till further notice. As far as the Palestinians are concerned, it would be advisable for purely tactical reasons not to reject the American peace proposals once they are officially submitted to the Palestinian Authority. The best course of action would be to engage the Americans in the nitty-gritty of the deal and seek assurances from Washington on two major factors. The first is the time limit for reaching a final peace deal and the second on Israeli commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state. If the Palestinians decide to reject the proposed deal outright, I am afraid the Israelis would take this as a pretext to accelerate their settlement activities in Jerusalem and elsewhere in the West Bank. The same goes for Arab governments that should work collectively to persuade the Trump administration to resume its financial aid to the Palestinian Authority as well as to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to encourage the Palestinians to reengage the Trump administration. I fully realise that this is a difficult and unpopular choice, to make but the alternatives are not at all promising and would prove to be a boon for the extreme right in Israel. One thing is certain, regardless of the reactions of the parties concerned to the White House peace deal. The Middle East in the post-deal era will be a different place. * The writer is former assistant foreign minister. *A version of this article appears in print in the 9 May, 2019 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly under the headline: A leap into the unknown Search Keywords: Short link: MBABANE The House of Assembly is set to be a battlefield this afternoon as the controversial Alcohol and Tobacco Levy Bill, 2019 will be debated and there seems to be serious differing of opinions. While government insists on the proposed seven per cent levy increase, the Members of Parliament (MPs) through the Finance Sessional Committee, have recommended a four per cent increase while the stakeholders want no increase at all. Governments justification on imposing the levy, is that its a way of recouping the lost revenue due to rate deferential between general sales tax and it proposed to introduce the levy. Government according to the Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, stated that the levy would also act to discourage the consumption of these sin products to the betterment of the countrys health position. This is contained in the Finance Sessional Committee Report which was tabled by the acting chairperson of the committee, Ndzingeni MP Lutfo Dlamini, in the House of Assembly on Monday. However, the committee has proposed to other MPs that the seven per cent rate of levy be staggered over a period of two years in the first year 2019 to four per cent, and in 2020 the remaining three per cent. However, stakeholders, which include the British American Tobacco Swaziland stated that the seven per cent levy would create a further demand for cheap illicit cigarettes, at the expense of the legal industry, and that the same cigarettes sold in Eswatini would become six per cent more expensive than those sold by South Africa and 213 per cent more than Mozambique, a non-SACU member. The organisation argued that already illicit products were estimated at around 35 per cent of the total tobacco products in Eswatini, and that government lost at least E36 million in tax revenue annually as a result in of illicit tobacco products. Meanwhile, the Eswatini Beverages Limited (EBL) submitted that raising excise taxes including levies on alcohol was not an effective way to address alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is a complex personal and societal issue that requires target measures to solve. High excise taxes penalise responsible drinkers as they were the most sensitive to price changes, EBL was reported to have submitted. Options The beverages company submitted that if anything, high taxes may inadvertently push people into higher risk options including informally or illicitly produced alcohol and encourage cross-border purchasing or smuggling. EBL further argued that product taxes did not guarantee increased tax revenue, since it assumed that customers would retain previous consumption patterns. The company said the levy would make Eswatinis pricing higher than that of South Africa and Mozambique, giving rise to increased smuggling which would lower government tax revenues as the regulated market dwindled and the government tax base shrunk. EBL stated that it was a volume driven business and demand for its product was sensitive to price changes that would increase if a levy was introduced. At the proposed rates, the total tax contribution to government projected by EBL for 2019 will increase marginally by E1.2 million and the levy will cost E1.6 million in profits in the same period, submitted EBL. Meanwhile, government argued that the consumption of alcohol and tobacco had a bearing on the quality of health and life in Eswatini, and that a number of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were linked to the consumption of alcohol and tobacco. Government said these included heart disease, stroke and cancer among others. Government stated that the projection was that 1 000 lives could be saved by 2025 if government implemented policies that would discourage the consumption of these products. Therefore the introduction of the levy is one such policy intervention aimed at discouraging consumption, said government. Meanwhile , it was the finding of the committee that smuggling of the two products; alcohol and tobacco, was rife and that there were no clear measures to curb the illicit trade, which was why it had proposed staggering as government put control measures in place. Crawford County Sheriff candidate Dave Powers, right, addresses audience members while fellow candidate Neil Fratus, left, looks on at the Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce and Titusville Rotary Clubs spring legislative luncheon Tuesday. The luncheon was held at the Towne Square building and saw both candidates respond to a series of questions. You have reached a premium content area of TOL. To read this entire article please login if you are already a TOL subscriber. Not a subscriber? Subscribe today for access to: Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles). Wahed, the parent company of Wahed Invest, the first halal robo advisor in the US, said it is expanding its operations globally, providing access to Islamic value-based investing in over 130 countries including key markets across Nigeria, India, Pakistan and the Mena region. The platform was previously available only to US and UK communities. Wahed looks to change how the Muslim community participates in global financial markets by making investing accessible and ethically compliant for the 1.8 billion Muslims globally. For many Muslims, investing in line with their faith is more complex due to the exclusion of companies that obtain the bulk of their profits from interest, lending, gambling, hedging in silver or gold, insurance, pork, alcohol, tobacco, firearms and other activities deemed harmful or impermissible in Islam. The platform, which was launched in the US in 2017 and expanded into UK markets in 2018, has found that 84 per cent of its users are new to or only somewhat familiar with investing. The launch has been highly anticipated globally with over 40,000 interested users already on the waitlist for the international platform. Once signed-up, users can securely create an investment account within minutes with the help of facial recognition technology. Wahed will automatically suggest a portfolio for each user based on their risk profile, taking into account liquidity needs, investment goals and other criteria. The portfolio models are overseen by Waheds portfolio management professionals. Users can begin investing with as little as $100 while paying a fraction of traditional advisory fees. By utilizing fractional share trading, Wahed ensures that investors always have a diversified portfolio, regardless of their account size, thereby making investing efficient for investors from all walks of life. Current portfolio allocation options include investments into: Global stocks (Wahed S&P Shariah Fund for US clients) Emerging market stocks (Wahed S&P Dividend Growth Fund for US clients) Sukuk (Islamic bonds) Commodities (Gold) Junaid Wahedna, CEO and founder of Wahed Invest said: Our mission from day one has been to give access to ethical and efficient returns to the underserved investor. We are very proud to say that today, no matter where geographically an ethical investor is located, or what income demographic they fall under, they will have access to an investment portfolio that is free from usury, or any unethical constituent. This is an incredibly exciting time for Wahed. Since launching in the US and UK, our international waitlist just keeps on growing and were extremely pleased to finally on-board users from all over the world providing a much-needed solution. Our new international mobile app allows users to open their account in minutes, invest in low-cost diversified portfolios, and monitor their performance anytime and anywhere. In the trailing 12 months, the S&P 500 Shariah Index (which includes all Shariah-compliant constituents of the S&P 500) outperformed the S&P 500 Index by a fifth (16.3 per cent vs 13.5 per cent). In order to ensure all returns are halal, Wahed has a full-time Ethical Review Board, which undertakes a rigorous screening process and produces annual purification reports. As a result, Muslim and non-Muslim investors alike can now be completely confident that their portfolios are ethically sound. Wahed has also successfully received associate membership with the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI), a not-for-profit organization that regulates and standardizes accounting, auditing and governance practices for the Islamic finance industry in line with international standards that comply with Islamic rules. The Wahed Invest platform is available immediately and can be accessed by downloading the mobile application available on the Android and IOS app stores. TradeArabia News Service Leading Italian interior design and furniture retailer Selva Middle East is boosting its presence in the UAE with the launch of a new showroom along Sheikh Zayed Road, near Al Manara Centre in Dubai.. The group already has a major regional presence with branches in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, said a statement from Selva. Since opening the doors to its first Dubai showroom in 2007, the brand has been beautifying homes in the UAE for over a decade, it added. A destination for contemporary design pieces, Selva ME brings tradition and cutting-edge trends into a spectacular fusion. Housing pieces that are as unique as they are timeless, style is deeply rooted in the brands DNA, said its top official. With a growing reputation in the GCC, we are pleased to be expanding our reach in the UAE. With branches in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, we are delighted to have the Emirates in our portfolio too, remarked Philipp Selva. On a mission to extend its influence around the world, Selva is also participating in the 58th international Salone De Mobile in Milan. The interior retailer will be showcasing a preview of the pont table by Aldo Cibic and the Lucrezia series designed by the architect Frances Colucchese. Additionally, it will also be presenting the Laku armchair with matching ottoman by Toshiyuki Kita, first exhibited in 2018. In addition to furnishing homes in the UAE, Selvas team of interior designers have invested their talent in notable projects like The Marriott Hotel, Dubai, Grand Hotel, Dubai and Kempinski, Dubai, said the Italian design brand. Selva MEs outlet in Dubai showcases an avant-garde collection that has been crafted in collaboration with renowned global designers. Its vast product line boasts a blend of classic and current creations. The Italian major will be showcasing the latest pieces from Salone de Milano in its showroom in Dubai soon.-TradeArabia News Service The private sector will be the first beneficiary of adopting sustainable development goals (SDGs), stressed Dr Khaled Al Ghazzawi chief executive officer of Ebdaa Bank Bahrain. Al Ghazzawi noted that adopting SDGs will be like returning the favour to the community through creating qualified cadres capable of producing, increasing returns and raising performance levels. During a regional workshop in Cairo, Egypt, organised by the Arab Network of NGOs in partnership with the Arab Gulf Development Program "Agfund", Dr Al Ghazzawi added that all governments must adopt the sustainable economic and social development goals. He stressed that SDGs can be achieved with concerted efforts of the world as a whole to help each other. The Towards a value system supportive of sustainable development workshop was attended by around 50 participants from the Arab region and the world. During the workshop, Dr Al Ghazzawi reviewed the achievements of Bahrain in implementing SDGs, where the National Information Committee monitors the objectives of SDGs and its indicators, and links them to the government's work programmes. He praised Bahrain's keenness on sustainable development as a basis for the government to develop its policies. In this context, he referred to HM King Hamad Youth Empowerment award to achieve the SDGs, Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women's Empowerment, and HRH Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Award for Sustainable Development. Dr Al Ghazzawi also explained that the SDGs are implemented through the government's work programmes in partnership with the private sector and civil society. The current programme includes six strategic axes that intersect with key areas of SDGs. The comparison showed that 78 per cent of the SDGs are included in the current programme. Dr Al Ghazzawi revealed that the workshop is the first step to the framework of the research project "Arab Code for Sustainable Development adopted by Agfund, which aims to prepare an Arab code for sustainable development that includes a system of supporting values, a guide for NGOs for sustainable behaviour, and a set of training programmes and manuals which will build capacities and skills for NGOs to maximise their contribution to the implementation of sustainable development. The workshop was attended by representatives of a number of NGOs and civil society organisations from the Arab world, including a number of prominent Arab economic figures, including Dr Ziad Bahaa El Din, former Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister; Dr Osman Mohamed Osman, former Egyptian Minister of Planning; and Dr Ibrahim Awad, head of the refugee programme at the American University in Cairo. TradeArabia News Service On April 30, the University of Houston Office of Undergraduate Research celebrated another record-breaking year in 2018-19, with 11 outstanding UH students receiving Fulbright awards for research and teaching. Eight of those students are from the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS). The Universitys record-setting year is part of an upward trend in recognition from the Fulbright program; in the past three years, the University has received 28 Fulbright scholarships. To put that in perspective, UH received 35 Fulbright scholarships between 1966 and 2017. In the field of national fellowships and awards, UH is risingand rising fast. "UH has catapulted into a new tier of institutions with this latest, eleventh Fulbright award," said Paula Myrick Short, UH senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. "We had a record year last year with six Fulbright students, and to have almost doubled that number in just one year is a tribute to the success of our faculty and staff mentors on campus, as well as the outstanding students who apply for these competitive scholarships." The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is a flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to build relations between the United States and other countries. Fulbright awards are funded through an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State. Participating governments, host institutions, corporations, and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the program, which operates in over 160 countries worldwide. We were ecstatic to learn that 8 of the 11 Fulbright scholarships has been awarded to CLASS. This tells me that CLASS is right on the cusp of producing its first Rhodes and Marshall scholars, said CLASS Dean Antonio D. Tillis. The University of Houston continues to prove that it is a powerhouse, and CLASS continues to demonstrate it is a CLASS above the rest. CLASS Fulbright Recipients Yusuf Bavi (English Teaching Assistant, Morocco) began studying Arabic four years ago while studying at Houston Community College. He knew he would continue with the language when he transferred to UH , but he never imagined it would take him so far. During the summer of his first year at the University, he had the opportunity to study abroad in Jordan and to visit Palestine. His studies abroad provided a practical understanding of what he learned in his study of the history and politics of the modern Middle East. They also gave Bavi a new perspective on his experiences in the United States. Last summer he studied Arabic in Meknes, Morocco on a Critical Language Scholarship. Yusuf is excited to complete a Fulbright in Morocco, because it will allow him to enrich his knowledge of the country and explore its history while facilitating mutual understanding. He also plans on continuing his study of Arabic and Darija, and beginning to study French formally. Britnee Chuor (English Teaching Assistant, Spain) grew up in minority-majority communities in Southern California and Houston, which introduced her to a variety of cultures, helped her develop linguistic skills, and strongly influenced her passion for working with immigrant communities. At the University of Houston, Chuor double-majored in political science and liberal studies, minored in Spanish, and became a Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP). She also studied abroad in Cadiz, Spain as a Gilman Scholar before graduating in December 2018. She now speaks three languages, works as a policy analyst for State Representative Gene Wu during the 86th Legislature, and will participate in the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program in fall 2019. Layla Kratovic (Study/Research, Bosnia and Herzegovina) will be graduating in May 2019, with a bachelor's in psychology and a minor in human resource management. She has been involved in clinical research for over two years as a research assistant at the Trauma and Stress Studies Center. Her research interests include trauma, substance use, and treatment development for depression and anxiety disorders. Kratovic is also a field researcher for The National Police Foundation and an intern at The Petoskey Center. She will be going to Bosnia and Herzegovina for nine months, starting in October 2019, where she will study the transgenerational consequences of traumatic stress in a post-war country. Kratovic plans to pursue a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. Danielle Niangar (Study/Research, Italy) is a senior double majoring in political science and sociology with a minor in global international studies. She has worked for three immigration law firms, interned for Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, the British Consulate, Human Rights First, Refugee Services of Texas, and the Department of State. In October 2019, Niangar will be researching the societal integration of immigrants with the Italian National Institute of Statistics in Rome, Italy. She became interested in international human rights when she began to work with law firms on asylum and refugee cases. Niangar plans to pursue a future in humanitarian causes. Michelle Orsi (English Teaching Assistant, Argentina) holds a bachelors in Spanish and English from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, with concentrations in Latin American studies and creative writing and a minor in international relations. While at Gonzaga University, Orsi also became certified to Teach English to Students of Other Languages (TESOL) before moving to Houston to pursue her masters in creative writing at UH . While at UH , she has taught English composition and creative writing courses as a graduate instructor. Orsi will move to Los Angeles this summer to begin her doctorate in Creative Writing and Literature at the University of Southern California before leaving for Argentina in March of 2020. Crystal Tran (English Teaching Assistant, Taiwan) is a senior finishing up dual degrees in political science and psychology. Through UH , Tran had the opportunity to learn more about the value of community and explored different avenues of public service. She interned at Houston City Hall through both the Hobby School of Public Affairs' Civic Houston Internship Program, and the UH International Affairs Internship Program. In addition, Tran worked in a few of Houston's many local nonprofits, such as the YMCA International Services' Trafficked Persons Assistance Program. Her experiences had broadened Tran's perspective on the importance of cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations and a deep appreciation for being involved in Houston's incredibly diverse community. Tran hopes to bring these experiences to Taiwan as she develops her Mandarin language studies and to engage with, and learn from, the local community. Alberto Wilson III (Study/Research, Mexico) is a doctoral candidate in the Department of History training as a modern U.S. historian with specializations in Latino/a and borderlands history. His dissertation is a transnational urban study of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez that examines the identities, encounters, and solidarities that emerged along the U.S.-Mexico border after the Second World War. During his time on fellowship, Alberto will carry-out research in the regions archive and collect oral histories, alongside establishing professional connections in Ciudad Juarezs flagship university. Somalia, May 8 (UNI) From the moment were born, were all at risk of contracting diseases. So the question is, are we aware enough? Are we responsible enough? Are we immune enough? Not long ago infections like influenza, tetanus, chickenpox and measles were prolonged, painful illnesses, which often resulted in death. Immunization saves millions of lives every year and is widely recognized as one of the worlds most successful and cost-effective public health interventions. The Expanded Programmme on Immunization (EPI) started in Somalia in 1978 with the support of WHO and UNICEF. Due to the prolonged conflict and instability Somalias health system, including immunisation services, is very weak, fragmented and severely under-funded. Control of vaccine-preventable diseases remains a huge challenge in Somalia, due to the low routine immunisation coverage and the continued inability to reach children in security-compromised areas, hard-to-reach areas, nomadic children and competing health priorities for parents other than immunisation of children. Low routine immunisation coverage and a history of serious outbreaks that have hit Somalia in the past are a strong reminder of the risks posed by large cohort of un-immunised children. Vaccine-preventable diseases are prevalent in Somalia and child mortality is 137 per 1000 live births. Somalia has been providing the traditional 6 antigens in routine immunisation and with the support of GAVI - the Vaccine Alliance and immunisation partners like UNICEF and WHO. The country has introduced pentavalent vaccine in 2013 and inactivated polio virus vaccine in 2015 and plans to introduce measles-containing-vaccine second-dose (MCV2) in 2020. With the continuous support of GAVI, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Rotary International and other important donors immunisation coverage has improved in recent years; however, Somalia has still not attained the desired levels of coverage. To improve immunisation coverage more efforts needs to be in place for integrated approach along with other programmes like nutrition, malaria, water and sanitation and communication programmes to complement the reach of immunisation and improve coverage of all eligible children with equity. Somalia faced a deadly measles outbreak in 2017; out of the 31 000 people affected, 83 per cent were children under the age of 10. WHO Somalias Emergency Response team, Somali national authorities, and partners targeted 4.7 million children in the nationwide measles campaign. During this intervention, around 4.5 million children were vaccinated. As a result of the nationwide immunisation campaign conducted, as of April 2019, Somalia witnessed a decline in the trend of cases reported this year. This steady progress can be attributed to partners commitment to strengthen routine immunisation and to reach out to unvaccinated children to boost their immunity. However, Somalias children are still not out of danger measles outbreaks are likely to spread in security-compromised inaccessible areas. Somalias last outbreak of wild poliovirus, which occurred from 2013 to 2014, affected 194 children. Since then, as a result of mass and more focused immunisation campaigns, and robust surveillance for polio symptoms to guide immunization activities, the country has been free of wild poliovirus. However, due to the challenges faced in reaching hard-to-reach areas, the country is currently experiencing 2 outbreaks of rare strains of the poliovirus, which have affected 13 children so far. The last nationwide polio campaign, conducted in March, vaccinated more than 2.7 million children under 5. More than 84 000 children were vaccinated for the first time. Marked during the last week of April, World Immunization Week aims to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease. WHO wants to assure parents and communities in Somalia that vaccines are safe, effective, and can lead to lifetime immunity from diseases. While celebrating World Immunisation Week with the theme Protected Together: Vaccines Work, Dr Mamunur Rahman Malik, WHO Representative for Somalia, called for scaling up the routine immunisation programme in Somalia through working together with partners, communities and grass-root level organisation. In 2018, Somali authorities, WHO and partners vaccinated more than 400 000 children against measles as part of routine immunisation programme. Yet, about 170 000 children were missed or did not receive the first dose of measles vaccine last year. Our priority is to reach out to all these children who misses the routine vaccine doses or remain unvaccinated owing to access or any other barrier. Leaving no child behind, we can ensure every childs right to lead a healthy and productive life- if all who need to vaccinated are vaccinated in a timely way, he stated. In the last decade, Somali health authorities and WHO worked with Gavi and other key partners to strengthen routine immunisation. This protected 2.4m children against 8 vaccine-preventable childhood diseases. Somalia has shown remarkable progress in achieving good immunisation coverage for some diseases that is realistically feasible to achieve in a fragile state, lot of works still need to be continued and scaled up to fill the immunization gaps through enhancing partnerships with other local stakeholders which is the key theme of this years World Immunisation Week. Responding to outbreaks of measles or polio is a priority but can be prevented through achieving high coverage in routine immunisation programme and also by reaching out to the children, who do not receive any vaccine during the first year of their life. Despite the gains made by vaccination over the years, there are still unvaccinated and under-vaccinated children in Somalia today. As a consequence, millions of children are being put at risk against vaccine-preventable diseases. As part of this years campaign, grass-root level vaccinators who spearhead all barriers to reach every child in inaccessible areas of the country were honoured as immunisation heroes. Their roles in keeping children healthy and securing a safer future has been acknowledged throughout the country. UNI XC-BM RSU 0813 UW Student Teams Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Award to Aid in Enhanced Oil Recovery Vahideh Mirchi Vahideh Mirchi and a colleague entered the John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition at the University of Wyoming with plenty of confidence. Their confidence was not misplaced. The teams business project beat out four other competitors on its way to a $25,000 award. The entrepreneurship competition is sponsored by the UW College of Business and supported by the John P. Ellbogen Foundation. The competition awards cash prizes to outstanding teams of student entrepreneurs who submit their business plans for new ventures that show significant business potential. Known as the UW $10K Competition until 2011, the John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition encourages students to act on their talents, ideas and energy to produce tomorrows leading businesses. Two other UW student-led teams also placed in the recent competition. I was so excited to participate in the largest student entrepreneur competition in the state, Mirchi says. We were so confident on the potential of our business concept due to our extensive experiences in the oil and gas energy sector. Mirchi, a UW doctoral student in petroleum engineering from Iran, and her colleague developed SciTech Energy LLC. Their business project is to formulate highly efficient biofriendly surfactants for application in enhanced oil recovery. The idea for the business came from Mirchis Ph.D. studies. During my Ph.D., I worked with many chemicals with different formulations that are used for enhanced oil recovery application, Mirchi says. I noticed that discharging the residuals of many petroleum-based chemicals affects the ecosystem through their toxicity to organisms. Therefore, innovation to solve this problem was my motivation to use substances containing agricultural materials that can be deployed in reservoirs to recover more oil without damaging the environment. Though they knew they could, the team did not enter the competition with an expectation of winning it, Mirchi says. Winning was not the purpose of our group. Instead, we were so delighted to have the opportunity to educate ourselves during the workshops and classes held before the competition, Mirchi says. The classes provided a very strong platform for us as a startup company to learn more about all the business aspects of our idea. Mentorship from Professor Corey Billington significantly changed our perspective about marketing strategies and the way we need to look at the market. Now that they have won and have received money to expand on their startup business, the team hopes to have a major positive impact on enhancing the oil production for future needs of the worlds energy, while resulting in far less damage to the environment, Mirchi says. Since the team received its education and experiences in the field in Wyoming, the members have made it their duty to return to the state with their business in order to create more jobs in the Cowboy State. Additionally, Mirchi says the support of local and state government will help their business contribute successfully to Wyomings economy. Two other business plans also received awards during the competition, listed by business name and team members: -- Second place: Autosense Vehicle Occupancy Detection System (VODS) received $15,000. Team members are Kyler Lunberg, majoring in electrical engineering, from Laramie; Dalton Hass, majoring in computer engineering, from Cheyenne; and Braxton Cooper, majoring in electrical engineering, from Sheridan. The Autosense VODS is a device that uses a variety of sensors to monitor the environment of a vehicle and help prevent human and animal deaths. -- Third place: Torch Creamery received $10,000. TeaLayna Hill, majoring in social work with a minor in disability studies, from Belle Fourche, S.D., and her sister, Tesa Halter. Torch Creamery will provide quality ice cream creations through advocacy and employment for people with disabilities. The company received an additional $2,500 as the Bill Daniels Business Ethics Award winner. The John P. Ellbogen $50K Entrepreneurship Competition occurs during UWs Entrepreneurship Summit sponsored by the College of Business, the Wyoming Business Council, the College of Engineering and Applied Science, Bank of the West, Union Wireless, the city of Laramie, American National Bank and UniWyo Federal Credit Union. Driver charged with fleeing and eluding Richmond police officers attempted to stop a vehicle in the area of Gratiot Avenue and Division Road on April 6, but the driver refused to stop, according to a police report. When the driver accelerated northbound on Gratiot Avenue, police terminated the attempt to stop the vehicle due to unsafe road conditions. The officer recognized the driver and knew where he lived. The following day, police responded to the drivers address, but did not make contact. The driver later responded to the station and admitted to not stopping because he had been drinking. He was arrested. Car hits building after drivers foot slips off brake The Richmond Police Department received a report of a car hitting a building in the 67000 block of Main Street on April 20, according to a police report. Officers arrived on the scene, along with members of the Richmond Fire Department, and it was determined there were no injuries and the building was safe to occupy. The driver said her foot slipped off the brake, causing the incident. Truck crashes into city sign Members of the Richmond police and fire departments and Richmond-Lenox EMS responded to a crash on Division Road in front of the police station on April 26, according to a police report. Officers arrived on the scene and found a truck had taken down the City of Richmond sign and crashed into a pole by the railroad tracks. When emergency medical personnel transported the driver to the hospital, it was discovered he has a medical condition. Pair caught on video shoplifting at local business Richmond police officers were dispatched to a business in the 66000 block of Gratiot Avenue on April 28 in response to a report of a male and female shoplifting, according to a police report. Officers arrived on the scene as the suspects were leaving. The officer spoke with the suspects and store employees. When video was received, a warrant request was prepared and will be sent to the prosecutors office for review. The case remained open at press time. Employee accused of embezzling funds On April 5, a representative of a business located in the 68000 block of Main Street in Richmond reported that an employee had embezzled money from the business, according to a Richmond police report. After an investigation was done, the suspect was picked up at his home. When he was interviewed by a detective, he admitted to taking the money. The amount taken is believed to be about $14,000. The suspect was arrested. A warrant request for felony charges was pending at press time. Graffiti appears on park play structure Richmond police officers were contacted on April 28 regarding a play structure with graffiti on it at Gierk Park. After photos were taken, the department of public works was contacted to wash off the graffiti. There were no suspects at the time of the report. Drunken driver arrested at ATM Richmond police responded to a report of a driver who appeared to be passed out behind the wheel of a vehicle stopped at an ATM machine in the 67000 block of Main Street on April 3, according to a police report. When an officer arrived at the location, the vehicle attempted to leave. Contact was made with the driver, who appeared to be intoxicated. After testing, including a preliminary breath test, it was confirmed the drivers blood-alcohol content was over the legal limit. His daughter was also in the vehicle. The driver was arrested. The vehicle was impounded. The child was transported to her mothers home. Stolen cell phone returned An employee of a business in the 67000 block of Main Street in Richmond reported his cell phone stolen to Richmond police on April 3, according to a police report. The complainant said the phone was near the register when it went missing. The female who took the phone was identified, and a warrant for larceny in a building was requested. After contact was made with the female on a separate date, the phone was returned. Visitor drives across lawn of apartment complex On April 13, Richmond police officers were dispatched to apartments located in the 36000 block of Dow Street in response to a report of a malicious destruction of property incident to a lawn, according to a police report. Maintenance personnel said a visitor to the apartments drove across the lawn, causing damage. Contact with a witness confirmed the identification of the driver. A warrant was sought due to ongoing issues with the subject, who is not a resident of the apartment complex. Car windshield damaged by cinder block Richmond police officers were dispatched to a residence in the 69000 block of Main Street on April 13 in response to a report of a cinder block being thrown through a windshield, according to police report. Police observed damage to the windshield of the complainants vehicle. She told police she had just broke up with her boyfriend, but did not know if he was responsible for the damage. A male leaving the area fit the description of her ex-boyfriend, and after a brief talk with the subject, police determined he was in the area when the incident occurred. The incident took place in the middle of the night. The case was submitted to the prosecutors office for review. Intoxicated driver arrested after running stop sign On April 21, a Richmond police officer stopped a vehicle in the area of Howard and Dow streets for failing to stop at the stop sign, according to a police report. Contact was made with the driver, who was intoxicated. The driver was arrested and lodged at the station. The vehicle was impounded. Barb Pert Templeton, For MediaNews Group When I started digging into my ancestry, I never thought it would involve literal digging. But a few months after my research began, I found myself at a local cemetery, kneeling on wet grass, desperately trying to find my ancestors graves. The initial shock of what I found was heartbreaking. I ended up finding the graves of my great-grandparents Edward Vernier and Ruth Meldrum, along with my fourth great-grandfather Robert Meldrum, but there are still others possibly buried at this particular cemetery who I have not yet found. And Im afraid I might not ever be able to find them. First things first: Flat headstones are probably not the best choice for a loved ones grave. You know exactly what Im talking about if youve ever seen a persons final resting place essentially be devoured by the earth, covered with a fresh layer of dirt and grass, as if the person never existed. There are many old graves at this cemetery, but it also appears to accept new burials, so I didnt expect it to be a place where graves seem to vanish into the earth. How could that happen? Who would let gravestones be buried and forgotten? These were just a couple of the questions I had after realizing this likely wasnt an isolated occurrence. At another local cemetery, I found a different set of great-grandparents. Well, first I found the grave of my great-grandfather George William Bland. His wife Marguerite Embach is buried next to him, but unless you look closely, you might miss it. Her headstone a flat headstone was almost completely concealed by a bush that seems to have grown on top of her grave in the years since her death. I can understand how sunken gravestones and overgrown foliage can become an issue in cemeteries. If no one comes to visit, these issues may go unnoticed and continue to get worse. But who is ultimately responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of a plot and headstone? I havent been able to find a direct, concrete answer, but it appears to often fall on the families of those buried. Regardless of our beliefs about death, I think it could do a lot of good if we all did our part to take care of those who lived and died in our communities. After all, it could be us who disappears one day. And maybe we could take another look at burials altogether. Space for burials is becoming limited in countries around the world, and the need to keep up with cemetery and grave maintenance seems to be more important than ever. Cemeteries in some crowded areas are turning to stacked burials, reclaimed plots and other options to deal with the lack of space. Instead of traditional burials, some are opting for alternatives, such as biodegradable urns, green burial pods and alkaline hydrolysis, which is sometimes called water cremation. In May 2018, the New York Times reported Arlington National Cemetery could be completely full in about 25 years. With no room to expand, officials looked to tighten the rules for who can be buried on the Virginia property. In 2017, Forbes reported urban cemeteries are running out of space as baby boomers enter their twilight years. Many urban cemeteries in some of the biggest cities in the U.S. are experiencing a land shortage and face the prospect of running out of room for more bodies in the near future, Jarred Schenke wrote in the Nov. 3, 2017, article. While finding my roots, I also came across a literal interpretation when researching my many ancestors who settled in Canada. My seventh great-grandfather, Charles Chauvin, reportedly brought 12 Jesuit pear trees from his native France to plant in the Windsor-Detroit area in 1749. A memorial in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, donated by the Chauvin Family Association reads: In June 1749, the south shores first settler, Charles Cauvin, planted near this spot 12 Jesuit pear trees imported from his native France one for each of the apostles of Christ. Graftings from those ancient trees, which survive nearby, provided the tree saplings planted here one for each century of the Windsor Detroit Tricentennial celebration. The hardy, high-yielding trees, unique in North America, are appropriate symbols of the enduring spirit, endurance and productivity of this community. I can dig that. Katelyn Larese is a Local News Editor at The Voice. She can be contacted at 586-273-6196 or klarese@medianewsgroup.com. MORE: South Africa: IEC attending to closed voting stations The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) has assured voters at the five voting stations in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, which were not yet opened by 5pm, that efforts to were being made to resolve this matter. Efforts to resolve these and provide voters in these areas with an opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote are continuing and will continue for as long as is necessary, IEC Deputy Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Masego Sheburi said. Addressing a media briefing on Wednesday at the National Results Operation Centre in Tshwane, the CEO said the voting stations that were affected include two in the Eastern Cape -- one voting station in Buffalo City and one in Ntabankulu -- as well as three voting stations in Inkosi Langalibalele municipality in the uThukela District (Escort). Four voting stations in Vuwani, Limpopo, which had earlier opened, were also forced to close for a period during the course of the day due to unrest and safety concerns. However, these have all now re-opened, Sheburi said. The Electoral Commission has expressed sadness at the lack of respect for democracy and the rights of others in these areas and has reiterated its call on these communities to put the national interests of the country above the narrow interests of the community. Reports have also been received of temporary shortages of ballot papers at some voting stations, where distribution plans were not fully implemented. A factor which contributed to shortages was the ability of voters to cast their votes at any voting station in their province, in line with section 24(a), said Sheburi. Section 24 (a) of the Electoral Act states that voters are allowed to vote at any voting station in their province. In most cases, shortages were rapidly resolved by the redistribution of ballots and reserve stock, and voting resumed quickly. The Electoral Commission has urged all registered voters, who have not yet voted, to use the final hours of voting to make their voice heard. Those voters, who may have been waiting for the initial rush to pass, are urged to urgently make their way to voting stations to ensure they have an opportunity to vote before stations close at 21H00. As noted earlier, no voters who are in a queue at 9pm will be turned away and voting will continue until the last voter in the queue has been served, Sheburi said. The Electoral Commission said it remains highly satisfied and encouraged with voting progress throughout the day and throughout the country. There are approximately 26.7 million registered voters. The sixth democratic General Election takes place as South Africa celebrates the 25th anniversary of its first democratic elections. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 02:21 PM | PADUCAH More details have been released about the circumstances surrounding the arrest of a Glassport, Pennsylvania man after a Paducah girl was reported missing.The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reported Wednesday that Glassport Police visited the apartment of 56-year-old Rory Shelton last week at the request of Paducah Police, and he allowed them to check his bedroom, saying he had no knowledge of 16-year-old Megan Edgin. She had been reported missing by a foster parent on May 2, and had reportedly been communicating with Shelton on Instagram.Police followed up by checking security footage of the apartment building, and it showed the girl going into the building with Shelton on May 3. When police spoke to him on Tuesday, he admitted that Edgin was there and that he had lied during the first police visit. Officers found her naked in the apartment, and she reportedly told them she was going to marry Shelton and he'd protect her.Shelton told police he rented a car and drove to Paducah, where he picked up Edgin at her home about 3:30 am on May 2. Police say Shelton helped Edgin remove a court-appointed ankle monitor, and drove her back to Glassport.Shelton was jailed on charges of custodial interference and obstruction of justice.Since Edgin is a minor, Paducah Police could not share why she was wearing an ankle monitor. On the Net: New Year's Eve still on in Times Square, but with smaller crowd Advertisement By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | PADUCAH By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 10:16 AM | PADUCAH A judge has sentenced a man to prison in a 2017 Kevil area home invasion and shooting. McCracken County Circuit Court records show Judge Tony Kitchen sentenced Spencer Forrest to 15 years in prison, which is the sentence prosecutors recommended. Forrest pleaded guilty but mentally ill on March 18 to charges of first-degree assault, theft, two counts of criminal mischief, three counts of first-degree burglary and 10 counts of first-degree wanton endangerment. The charges stem from a series of break-ins in the Kevil area in 2017. Forrest reportedly admitted to shooting a woman during one of the burglaries. The victim, who survived, told police she awoke to find Forrest standing over her. He then reportedly shot her after asking for pills. Forrest also told investigators he shot a gun into the windows of two other homes. Forrest's family told police he suffers from schizophrenia and had not been taking his medication when the crimes occurred. When asked why he committed these offenses, Forrest reportedly said he had been hearing voices, and that the motive for his crimes was he was angry that he was not famous. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 07, 2019 | 08:54 PM | GRAVES COUNTY A fifth person was arrested Tuesday in connection to thefts from vehicles in Fancy Farm. On Monday, Graves County sheriff's deputies arrested Clayton Williams Jr., Christopher Reynolds, Abby Mae Hammonds and Brian Harris, all of Mayfield, on multiple drug and theft charges related to the theft of items from vehicles early Monday morning. On Tuesday, investigators located a stolen computer valued at $1,300 and a stolen 9 mm handgun inside the home where Williams and Harris were arrested. Twenty-nine-year-old Terra Utley, of Mayfield, was charged with receiving stolen property over $500. She was lodged in the Graves County Jail. Williams and Harris were additionally charged with theft by unlawful taking of a firearm. They remain at the Graves County Jail. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 07, 2019 | 10:29 PM | HICKMAN / RIVES KYTN reports that the Obion County Budget Committee members were made aware of state funding to study the proposed railroad line. Industrial Development Board Chairman Bedford Dunavant spoke to committee members Monday morning, concerning $350,000 approved in the new state budget. Dunavant said it was the hopes of all involved, to move forward as soon as possible on the railroad plan. Obion County Attorney Steve Conley has been given the working agreement between both industrial officials in Obion and Fulton County, with the full county commission to address the issue on May 20th. Funding has been approved for a railroad study that would connect Hickman, in Fulton County, to Rives, in Obion County. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 08, 2019 | 07:32 AM | GOLO The Graves County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance in identifying several people suspected of stealing items from a home. The owner told deputies the home on Parker Road in Golo is currently vacant, however some property is stored inside. A passerby called the owner Tuesday afternoon stating that there was a vehicle parked at the home and that it looked suspicious. The owner responded and found a white Chevrolet Trailblazer with several people inside parked in the driveway. A woman was seen leaving the home carrying property from inside the home. The owner initially confronted the woman and began taking photographs of her, vehicle, and those inside. The homeowner attempted to block the vehicle in, however the woman took off in the Trailblazer fled the area. Sheriffs deputies were able to obtain a license number that was displayed on the vehicle but are asking for the publics assistance in identifying those involved. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to contact the Graves County Sheriff's Office at 247-4501. By West Kentucky Star Staff May. 07, 2019 | 09:13 PM | MAYFIELD A traffic stop in Graves County Tuesday afternoon led to the arrest of two people on drug charges. According to the Graves County Sheriff's Office, a deputy stopped a car for a moving violation on US 45 North in Mayfield. An investigation led to the search of the vehicle. During the search, police allegedly found methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The driver, 61-year-old Michael Klein of Paducah, and his passenger, 46-year-old Lawanda Grizzell of Illinois, were arrested and lodged in the Graves County Jail. Both were charged with possession of marijuana, possession of meth, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Klein was also charged with DUI 4th offense and driving on a DUI-suspended license. Email To : Multiple e-mail addresses must be separated with a comma character(maximum 200 characters) Email To is required. Your Full Name: (optional) Your Email Address: Your Email Address is required. Wuyinga takes photos of the lamb raised by her family.[Xinhua] Gan Youqin lives in South China and Wuyinga lives in North China. Both use live streaming, as a direct and efficient method, to promote their interesting, daily lives in their hometowns. Given the rapid development of technology innovation in the so-called "Internet-Plus" era, more and more Chinese women are using new techniques and applications to showcase wonderful things and events in their hometowns. Gan Youqin gives e-commerce lessons to local women.[For Women of China/Gao Feng] 'Celebrity' Promotes Rural Vitalization Dream Qiaofu Jiumei (literally translates to "handywoman Sister Nine") is a "celebrity" on the Internet. She is known for broadcasting her daily life in the countryside, in South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. "Sister Nine" says she never imagined she would be so popular, even after she began promoting her hometown through live streaming in May 2017. "Sister Nine," whose real name is Gan Youqin, is 38. She lives in Suwutang, a remote village in Lingshan County, Guangxi. Gan lives with her husband, Lu Qisong, and their son, Xiaoliu. In 2008, Gan relocated from Guangdong Province to her hometown, in Lingshan County, with her husband and son. They contracted land in the mountainous region of Suwutang, where Gan and her husband reclaimed the wasteland to plant fruit trees and breed fish. In May 2017, Gan's nephew, Zhang Yangcheng, who had studied video production in college, started a business in Lingshan County. Zhang shot short, interesting videos, and he posted the videos online to promote life in his hometown. He persuaded Gan to participate in the videos by demonstrating how to cook meat tarts, a typical snack of Lingshan. It was the first time that Gan cooked in front of a camera. She was so nervous that she could not properly explain the cooking procedures. It took six attempts to complete a five-minute video. To their surprise, the video attracted 200,000 viewers in a few days. Later, another video, of Gan catching a goose, attracted more than 800,000 viewers. Since then, Gan has been interested in filming videos and live streaming. Now, Gan is much more familiar with the process of shooting a short video. One early morning, for example, she began a live stream by picking up a dried litchi she had made at home. "How does it taste? I will try one for all of you," Gan said as she peeled a litchi. Her mandarin was not standard, but her sweet smile was appealing to viewers. In addition to cooking delicious foods, Gan likes to share her daily farm work. Planting crops, breeding fish, climbing a tree to pick fruit All of those seemingly boring farm chores can be interesting topics in Gan's videos. She also likes to communicate with her followers, so she can learn their thoughts about her home-made foods. Gan Youqin shows the fruits in her hometown through the video.[For Women of China/Gao Feng] Given her efforts during the past two years, Gan has become the best-known e-commerce fruit seller in her hometown. "It is never easy to complete a shoot. My aunt works really hard," Zhang says, as he gives Gan thumbs up. Since Gan has become a "celebrity" online, many villagers in her hometown have asked her to help promote their agricultural products. "I hope to do the best as I can to help my fellow villagers create wealth. I am simply a peasant, who hopes more and more young people will like to return to our hometown to develop agricultural production in Lingshan County," Gan says. Influenced by Gan, an increasing number of villagers are using live streaming and e- commerce to develop their businesses. Hundreds of people have opened we -media accounts on short- video sharing platforms . The people's government and women's federation of Lingshan County have encouraged Gan to set a good example for local women, so the women will escape poverty and embrace a prosperous and promising future. Wuyinga shoots a video about the specialty foods in her hometown.[Xinhua] Mongolian Woman Shares Hometown's Scenery, Culture Online Wuyinga was born into a family of herdsmen in Alateng'aodu Gacha (a village-level, administrative region), in West Ujimqin, a banner in Xilin Gol, a league in northern China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, in 1995. She graduated from Inner Mongolia University of Finance and Economics, with a bachelor's degree, in 2017. She returned to her hometown at the beginning of 2018, and she began promoting both the folk culture of the Mongolian ethnic group and the beautiful scenery of her hometown via short videos and a live-streaming platform. "For the families of herdsmen in a pasturing area in the autonomous region, parents hope their children will pass the college-entrance exam, and then be enrolled by a university. Only in this way can their children leave the pasturing area and live a decent life in a big city. I became an intern at the Labor and Employment Service Bureau of the West Ujimqin Banner after I graduated from the university. At that time, I participated in Internet-based training given by an electronic-commerce enterprise. I realized that I would also have a bright future through the electronic -commerce industry in my hometown. So, I gave up my job, and I went back to my hometown," recalls Wuyinga. "I grew up in the pasturing area. I felt I was free when I was living on the grasslands. I hoped to live a less stressful life in my hometown. Many people knew little about the current lives of the Mongolian people who live on the grasslands in Inner Mongolia. I hoped to introduce our daily lives and the folk culture of our ethnic group to more people. My parents supported me In the beginning, my mother helped me shoot the videos, and my father often suggested the culture and specialties of our ethnic group that should be showed to the netizens. My father is fond of the Mongolian culture. He supports me in promoting our culture to more people," Wuyinga continues. She has shot a series of videos composed of 270 -plus episodes. The contents of her videos include the local dishes, breathtaking natural scenery of the vast grasslands, and the Mongolian culture and festivals. She also explains how she performs her farm and household work in her daily life. She named the series of videos, Impression of the Grassland. The videos have received more than 60 million hits, combined. She also live broadcasts her life, and she communicates with viewers via a live-streaming platform. Now, she has more than 500,000 followers on the Internet. She has also attracted many foreign viewers on the foreign platform. "The most attractive videos are the ones about the delicious foods of our ethnic group. I once shot a video about shoubarou (boiled mutton eaten by hand). The video has already had more than one million hits. I have not only promoted our scenery and culture I also make money by selling the local specialties online. Many people have traveled to Inner Mongolia because of my videos," Wuyinga says. "Wuyinga shows the lives of the grass-roots herdsmen on the grasslands via we-media It is meaningful for West Ujimqin Banner to promote the folk culture through the platform of incubating an Internet celebrity (of the Mongolian ethnic group). We can do many things in this aspect in the future," says Hudagula, President of the Women's Federation of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Women of China English Monthly March 2019 issue) The Anhui Telecom Customer Service Center has allowed its women employees to work from home, easing their difficulties of coming to the office for various reasons. At the beginning, this innovation in the operation mode of the service center was targeted at women employees under pregnancy and in the lactation period. Now, those employees, who have to commute for a long time, feel inconvenient to move, or have to look after children, may also apply to work from home. An employee of the Anhui Telecom Customer Service Center works from home. [China Women's News] An employee of the Anhui Telecom Customer Service Center works from home. [China Women's News] "The center provides 24/7 service for 32 million telecom users in Anhui Province, with an average monthly service volume of about 4.6 million person-times, including about 1.3 million manual services," said Hao Xiaomei, Vice-General Manager of Anhui Telecom Customer Service Center. "We have 712 women employees out of 868 total customer service representatives in the center, accounting for 82 percent. More than half of them have one child, and the number of the pregnant and lactating women is close to each other, staying at about 50 each month," Hao added. By the end of 2016, the center relocated its office to the development zone of the city, about 15 kilometers away from downtown area, which caused a continuous rise in the turnover rate of women employees. Long commuting time posed big challenges for women employees with difficulties to balance work and family. As a result, many of them had to eventually resign from their jobs. To stop losing mature staff and maintain steady high-quality services for users, the center worked out the solution of "home representative" work mode, allowing those women employees in need to work from home with technological support and guidance from the center. As of now, 115 employees have applied for work from home, of which 21 percent are pregnant, 46 percent have children to care for, and 33 percent suffer long commuting time. Wang Yuanyuan, one of the worried employees regarding work after pregnancy, is enjoying the convenience of working from home. "I am able to work and take care of my child at the same time, and I earn the same as before," she said. "Except the change of work location, all the service process and requirements, such as the system interface, safety certification and quality management are exactly the same as before," said Hao. "Our survey showed the users' satisfaction rate of 'home representative' reaches 98.5 percent, which is exactly the same as the on-site office service." This move helped maintain the employee turnover rate of the center within 3 percent, far below the industry average. More importantly, it greatly satisfies women employees' needs and supports them to continue their work. (Source: China Women's News/ Translated and edited by Women of China) Please understand that womenofchina.cn,a non-profit, information-communication website, cannot reach every writer before using articles and images. For copyright issues, please contact us by emailing: website@womenofchina.cn. The articles published and opinions expressed on this website represent the opinions of writers and are not necessarily shared by womenofchina.cn. Aerial photo taken on April 24, 2019 shows the newly-built dwellings and a school in Wen'anyi Town, Yanchuan County of Yan'an City, NW China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] Yan'an, a former revolutionary base of the Communist Party of China (CPC), is no longer labeled "poor," as its last two impoverished counties have shaken off poverty, the Shaanxi provincial government announced Tuesday. Yan'an hosted the then headquarters of the CPC and the center of the Communist revolution from 1935 to 1948. The city is now home to more than 350 sites related to the Chinese revolution. Chinese President Xi Jinping has stressed the need to end poverty in old revolutionary base areas and improve local people's standard of living. Xi said a well-off society is incomplete if people in old revolutionary base areas cannot shake off poverty. The counties of Yanchuan and Yichuan, with a population of 192,000 and 120,000 respectively and both located along the western bank of the Yellow River, have limited fertile valley fields. Villagers there had been plagued by poverty for decades. American journalist Edgar Snow wrote in his 1937 book "Red Star over China" that the area was "one of the poorest parts of China" he had seen. According to the provincial poverty relief office, poverty-stricken residents in the two counties now only account for 1.06 and 0.58 percent respectively of their populations, meeting the country's requirement for an impoverished county to cast off the title. An investment of 6.25 billion yuan (920 million U.S. dollars) from the central and local governments has been poured into Yan'an over the past four years. To ensure that every household could get rid of poverty, the city has sent a total of 1,784 Party chiefs, 1,546 working teams and 37,400 cadres to live in the villages to help with poverty alleviation. A total of 693 impoverished villages in the city have shaken off poverty, with 195,000 people being lifted out of poverty. The cradle of the revolution has continued to undergo tremendous changes over the past decades. Improved environment and infrastructure, booming agricultural economy, increasingly affordable education and healthcare, and multiple career choices for rural residents have rejuvenated the city. Greener city on loess plateau Located in the hinterland of the Loess Plateau, where 258 million tonnes of mud and sand were once washed into the Yellow River each year, Yan'an used to be vulnerable to drought and floods. The adverse natural environment and poor industrial foundation has not only affected the city but also instilled in the locals the importance of environmental protection while struggling with poverty. About 40 km south to the city center of Yan'an, Nanniwan Township is famous for a large-scale production campaign mobilized by late Chinese leader Mao Zedong in the 1940s, urging a revolutionary spirit to reclaim farmland from the uncultivated land to become self-reliant on the grain supply. Hou Xiuzhen, 73, has witnessed the great change of the town over the past half-century. As the daughter-in-law of a veteran of the brigade of Chinese Eighth Route Army which led the campaign at that time, Hou and her husband continued to do farm work in the fields cultivated by the brigade after the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. "In the 1950s, the hills were covered by farmland instead of trees. But we barely had much grain yield due to the barren soil and arid climate," Hou said. With government subsidies, Hou led her villagers to plant trees in the surrounding hills in 1999. Thanks to two decades of reforestation, Nanniwan now has a new look, with all the surrounding mountains covered with green trees in late spring. "Last year, we successfully planted over 26 hectares of lotus, which attracted plenty of tourists. I had never heard that lotus could grow on the loess plateau. So you know how the environment has changed here," Hou said. Growing grains failed to help farmers in Yan'an cast off poverty, but planting trees made it. The vegetation coverage of Yan'an has increased from 46 percent in 2000 to the current 81.3 percent. Road to future Mashuping, a cliff village on the Yellow River bank, was one of the poorest villages in Yichuan County, where most of its population are living in the mountainous areas. Until the completion of a road, Fu Changhong from a registered poor household in Mashuping had never been to the renowned Hukou Waterfall on the Yellow River, only 30 km away from his village. The road Fu mentioned is a newly-built highway along the Yellow River, which opened to traffic in 2017. The north-south highway, stretching 828.5 km along the west bank of the Yellow River, has contributed to the poverty alleviation of the three once poorest counties of Yan'an, including Yichuan and Yanchuan. "In the past, we had no ways to go out of the village but a narrow meandering footpath," Fu said. "I used to look at the Yellow River and thought how nice if it were a road." About 20 years ago, local villagers started to grow Sichuan pepper trees, seeds of which are a popular seasoning found in Sichuan cuisine. But they had to sell the farm produce at very low prices to dealers who came by motorbikes. "With the highway, we can sell peppers to factories directly at much better prices," said Fu. Wang Ruixin, Party chief of Liuwantou Village which administers Mashuping, said the annual per capita income of the village was 10,300 yuan last year, much higher than the national poverty line of around 3,000 yuan. The highway also means a new possibility to the local apple growers, as they can sell apples to the overseas market via e-commerce. Feng Tianxing, 56, from Chunqu Village of Yichuan, said the county government has sent cadres to help them sell apples in online shops. Apple planting has played a significant part in improving local farmers' income. In 2018, the revenue from apples accounted for a half of the city's rural residents' per capita disposable income. Feng made over 20,000 yuan last year simply by growing apples. "Apples have been sold out when they were still green hanging on the trees," said Feng. Career sets sail As the deadline to eradicate absolute poverty approaches, China redoubles its efforts to focus on the nation's poorest people in rural areas with precise and targeted measures. To train impoverished people and offer them appropriate jobs is one of such measures Yan'an has come up with. Though the nearest sea is more than 1,000 km away, Yan'an is proud of its sailor education. Nearly 2,000 sailors have graduated from Yan'an Vocational and Technical College over the past decade. Poorly educated, Yang Yufan saw no future, until he was enrolled in a four-month vocational training course as a sailor at the college. After graduation, he got a job on a general cargo ship in Southeast Asia. Now, his monthly salary is 1,200 U.S. dollars. He paid off the debt for his parents and built a two-story house in his hometown. "Sailors trained in the college are very popular by employers for they carry the Yan'an spirit characterized by arduous struggling," said Yang Yancun, department head of shipping engineering of the college. The city government has also cut tuition fees to encourage more people from poor households to participate in various vocational training, according to Yang. Yan'an will continue to help the remaining impoverished people shake off poverty, and strive to enter a moderately prosperous society in all respects with the rest of the country by 2020, said Xu Xinrong, Party chief of the city. Photo taken on April 23, 2019 shows a view of the Yan'an New District in Yan'an, NW China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] Aerial photo taken on July 13, 2017 shows a highway along the Yellow River near Mashuping Village in Yichuan County of Yan'an, NW China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] Aerial photo taken on July 13, 2017 shows a highway along the Yellow River near Mashuping Village in Yichuan County of Yan'an, NW China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] A villager picks apples at an orchard in Taiquan Village of Yichuan County, Yan'an City, NW China's Shaanxi Province, Oct. 15, 2018. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] A staff member operates an intelligent fruit-sorting system to monitor data about apples at a fruit company in Baota District of Yan'an, NW China's Shaanxi Province, Nov. 12, 2018. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] Villager Zhao Weishuan weeds his Sichuan pepper field at Mashuping Village in Yichuan County of Yan'an, NW China's Shaanxi Province, July 13, 2017. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] Students take a class at the Zaoyuan primary school in Yan'an, NW China's Shaanxi Province, May 6, 2019. [Xinhua/Liu Xiao] This video screenshot shows people receiving a four-month vocational training course as a sailor at the Yan'an Vocational and Technical College in Yan'an, NW China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Li Hua] China's National Health Commission called on public hospitals to improve their management in a bid to promote healthcare quality and efficiency. Public hospitals should enhance their service quality and economic benefits, said Ma Xiaowei, head of the commission. The move requires public hospitals to spend more on improving medical doctors' incomes instead of the hospitals' equipment or buildings. Improving public hospital management is an important measure to make medical treatment affordable for all, which is a major goal of China's deepened medical reform, Ma said. According to Ma, China will promote partnerships between medical institutions of different levels across the country, improve medical services provided by county hospitals and facilitate wider access to telemedicine services in rural areas. The country will also promote contracted family doctor services, which are provided by a group of doctors including general practitioners registered with grassroots health institutions, qualified doctors at township clinics and village doctors, Ma said. (Xinhua) Tao Xueyan, a graduate of Wenzheng College, delivers a speech at her alma mater. [ sdwz.cn ] When Tao Xueyan set up her own business four years ago, it came as no surprise to her teachers and classmates at Wenzheng College. She had displayed a budding spirit of entrepreneurship when she ran a rock 'n' roll band in her school days. "It was not for money. As long as we were allowed to use certain venues for free, it was one-of-a-kind experience for the band players. I learned a great deal from negotiations with companies," says Tao, 32. In 2015, she took over her family business, a Wuxi-based contract factory for the textile group, Heng Yuan Xiang, or HYX. The early days running the adult-underwear business based on an outdated decades-old model was a stern challenge. Luckily, when the second-child policy was carried out nationwide, Tao seized the opportunity. She convinced the brand's management team to launch a kids' underwear production line at her factory in 2017. Thanks to these efforts, her company is now in profit, selling their products in over 100 stores and online platforms. Most of her classmates who began startups at college, if still running, have enjoyed great success, Tao says. And she was happy to see an encouraging environment for younger students eager to try out their business ideas at the college. "When I returned to the school a few years ago, I saw there's a building showcasing students' businesses. Every booth was an office provided by the school for free, and each business was mentored by a teacher. I had not imagined all this before," she says. But Tao says two things remain unchanged over the years the relatively free environment at the college and the sense of responsibility that students learn there. "The teachers are younger and set fewer limits on us. Student clubs also play a role. I was the rock band's manager, for example, but more importantly I had to hand it over to my successor. It was more or less like running a company," she says. If there is one thing that graduates of Wenzheng College have in common, it is the confidence that can be found in all of them, says Tao. "We are confident that we can make a difference to society," she says. Meng Xiaomei poses for a photo.[For Women of China] Meng Xiaomei, born in 1973, is a teacher at Beigeng Township Central Primary School, in a remote mountainous area in Xincheng, a county in Laibin, a city in southwestern China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Meng has helped many impoverished students by paying their tuition fees and living expenses during the past 20-plus years. She was honored as a National March 8th Red-banner Holder in 2018. Early Years A student in Meng's class did not return to school after the fall semester began in 1996. She climbed several hills on her way to the student's home, during a weekend, and she found out the student had dropped out of school because the student had not been able to pay the tuition fee. So, she borrowed money from her relatives and colleagues, and she helped the student scrape the tuition fee together. "I once dropped out of school because of poverty. I was able to continue studying with the help of the local government and the villagers. I thought of my past when I saw the child's face. I wanted to do something for my student," says Meng. Lan Fenghai, a teacher who had just graduated from a normal school, began teaching Meng in 1989, when Meng was a middle school student in Grade Two. Meng liked Lan and her lessons. She decided to study hard, as she hoped to be enrolled by a normal school and become a teacher. However, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer the next year, which added to the family's misfortunes. An illness had left Meng's grandmother blind at a young age. Meng's father was seriously injured while he was cutting firewood on a mountain. Meng dropped out of school after she completed middle school. She became a substitute teacher at Neiren Primary School. At that time, she worked at the primary school in the daytime, and she did farm work and studied on her own at night. Finally, she passed the college-entrance exam. The villagers helped her raise money to pay the tuition. She graduated from school in 1995, and she became a primary school teacher in the township. Meng poses for a photo with her students.[For Women of China] Dedicating Herself Several years ago, many of the students in her class lived with their grandparents, as their parents had migrated to cities for work. Meng visited her students, to learn about the conditions of their families, during weekends and summer and winter vacations. She tried her best to help the students from impoverished families solve their problems. She took photos of their homes, and she established a file that recorded the students from impoverished families. She visited local entrepreneurs, and she motivated them to assist the students. She also contacted charity organizations to ask for their help. Representatives of a charity visited the primary school in December 2010. Then, she helped build a bridge between charity organizations and the impoverished children in Beigeng Township, to prevent the local children from quitting school. She led some volunteers, from Maitian Education Foundation, in visits to the families of 30 impoverished students, and in visits to 37 substitute teachers, in May 2011. With the help of the foundation, the students received up to 600 yuan (US $90) per year until they graduated from university, and the substitute teachers received up to 100 yuan (US $15) per month. Meng in 2013 helped establish a station for assisting the children whose parents were impoverished migrant workers in Beigeng. The station provides 100 yuan per month to impoverished children until they graduate from university. She also helped establish such stations in other municipalities in the county. To date, she has helped raise more than 2 million yuan (US $298,507) to assist more than 500 impoverished students. Now, poverty no longer prevents children in the township from attending school. Meng Xiaomei poses for a photo.[For Women of China] Warm Home for Students Fan Qiuliang, a student at Neiren Primary school, was elected a National Good Pupil in the New Era in January 2019. Fan's mother passed away when she was 2. Her father is confined to bed by sickness, and her elderly grandparents are weak. Every day, she gets up early in the morning. She makes a fire and cooks various dishes. Then, she feeds the chickens and pigs. She walks for an hour to school after she completes the household chores. She takes care of her father after school. She picks up and sells honeysuckle for money on weekends. Meng helped her receive donations, after she learned about the conditions of Fan's family. "I hope to become a teacher in the future. Teachers are smart, and they know much They can teach many students. I also want to become a loving teacher, just like Teacher Meng, to help more students in trouble," says Fan. Every year, many of Meng's former students visit her home during the Spring Festival. Some of them once accepted her assistance. Some are now attending universities in other cities. Some have already graduated and have found good jobs. They often recall the past, and they often talk about the outer world. For her students, the home of Teacher Meng is the beginning of their bright lives, and their common "warm home." "In the future, I hope more loving people will participate Our society needs more positive energy. I wish my children will do their best to become useful people in society," says Meng. Meng Xiaomei is at work.[For Women of China] (Women of China English Monthly March 2019 issue) Ma Juan spoke during an activity to commend women models.[Women of China] Ma Juan grew up in Dongxiang County, one of the most impoverished regions in Northwest China's Gansu Province. Ma is grateful that she is such a "lucky person," because she has been able to enjoy her life in the new era. Given the support of her parents, she was able to attend college and earn a higher education. Given the support of both the local government and the women's federation of Dongxiang County, she has been able to set up her own company, earn a good living and help many women in her hometown escape poverty. Ma's hard work has won her the honorable title of this year's National Women Achievement Makers Pacesetter. Snacks from Deep Mountains Dongxiang is an ethnic minority group that mainly inhabits Gansu Province. Dongxiang County, inhabited by people of the Dongxiang minority group, is located in a mountainous region where transportation conditions are relatively poor. Ma's hometown, Bulenggou, is a remote village hidden deep in the mountains of Dongxiang County. In February 2013, General Secretary Xi Jinping visited Dongxiang County and encouraged the residents to work hard and change their living environment. Ma said she has been lucky to witness the great changes that have been taking place in her hometown. Encouraged by her parents, Ma became the first person in her family to attend college, and to complete both an undergraduate degree and postgraduate degree. After she graduated from college, Ma decided to start a business in her hometown. She wanted to produce and sell huaguoguo (a type of fried dough-based food, which is Dongxiang minority group's traditional snack) to earn a living. "In the past, people in my hometown cooked huaguoguo mainly for family use . There were a few workshops in the village. But they only sold the snacks to locals villagers. I opened a store online, and I expanded my market to places all across China. I was passionate about running my business," Ma recalled. As the number of orders increased, Ma realized she would have a difficult time meeting customers' needs if she relied solely on her family to make the snacks. In Dongxiang County, almost every woman knows how to make huaguoguo. She decided to encourage local women to make the snacks, so they could earn a better living. She asked women in her hometown to help produce huaguoguo. "I registered a company, and I went to Yiwu, in East China's Zhejiang Province, to learn professional packaging techniques. I designed packages, which highlighted elements of our ethnic art and culture, to make our products look more appealing to customers," Ma says. Ma Juan is at work.[Xinhua] Workshops to Create Wealth Following the success of her business, Ma set another goal: To help women in her village escape poverty. Given the support of the local government and women's federation, two "poverty- alleviation workshops for women" were established in Dongxiang County. Ma organized training sessions to help women from impoverished families learn skills and become technicians. She demonstrated standard processing techniques, and she taught the women how to make good-quality huaguoguo. The word "bulenggou" means "cliffside" in the dialect of the Dongxiang people. "Bulenggou is a poor village hidden deep in the mountains. Today, with my help, more than 50 households in the village have at least one woman working in the 'poverty-alleviation workshops.' The women earn decent incomes. They no longer ask their husbands for money. The women have become more confident, and their status within their families has improved a lot," Ma says. Many Dongxiang women have said the "poverty-alleviation workshops" have helped them balance the need to earn money and to look after their families. The women look excited when they receive their salaries every month. Ma feels proud when she witnesses how happy the women employees are. By the end of 2018, Ma employed more than 160 women from impoverished families in Bulenggou. "I believe, as long as Dongxiang women are willing to improve their abilities, and as long as they do their best to fulfill their values, they will make a great change of their lives," Ma says. In addition to helping local women find employment and shake off poverty, Ma helps other people in need to fulfill her social responsibility. For example, in the autumn of 2018, her hometown was flooded. Ma immediately sent her company-produced huaguoguo to people in the disaster-stricken area. This year, she has paid part of the education fees for 10 poor college students. She says she will follow the Party's leadership and continue making efforts to fulfill her dreams, and to help more women in her hometown live better lives. Ma Juan introduces her products to other people.[Xinhua] (Women of China English Monthly April 2019 issue) Business rates blamed as data claims 1,100 fewer shops in Wales since 2010 a drop of 9% This article is old - Published: Wednesday, May 8th, 2019 An exchange at First Ministers Questions has once again surfaced the issue of Business Rates, with the charge being described as a contribution that businesses make to the services that allow those businesses to prosper. Welsh Conservatives Mohammad Asghar AM enquired of the First Minister What action is the Welsh Government taking to support the retail sector? citing data from the Welsh Retail Consortium showing that there were 1,100 fewer shops in Wales in 2018 than there were in 2010 a drop of nearly 9 per cent. First Minister Mark Drakeford said, Retail is a foundation sector in our economic action plan. Over the past year, we have increased business rate relief for the high street, expanded the business improvement district programme as we work with the sector in what are, we recognise, undoubtedly challenging times. Mohammad Asghar AM noted that the Welsh Retail Consortium went on to say that business rates were partly to be blamed for these closures and that firms in Wales have recently faced the greatest rise in business rates in Britain, First Minister, in view of the decreasing footfall to Welsh shopping destinations and with shop vacancy levels among the highest in the United Kingdom, what action will your Government take to reverse the decline in the Welsh retail sector? The First Minister said, Let me begin by making it clear that business rates are charged for very good reasons, because businesses that operate on the high street get all the advantages that come with public services: the roads that people drive to are paid for by the public; the pavements that people walk on are paid for by the public; the education that is provided to their workers is paid for by the public; the health service that looks after their workers when they fall sick is paid for by the public. Business rates are a contribution that businesses make to the services that allow those businesses to prosper. Here in Wales we now invest more in business rate relief than at any time in the whole of devolution. More than three quarters of business rate payers in Wales benefit from the different forms of rate relief that are provided by the Welsh Government, and in this financial year, we are investing an extra 23.6 million specifically in high street rates relief. Thats not to say for a moment that there arent real challenges that the high street faces. We know that out-of-town shopping and online shopping make a great difference on the high street. We know that there are changing patterns of consumer behaviour. 10 years into austerity, wages have been held back to the point where there is a lack of effective demand out there in the economy to buy the goods that are supplied on the high street. So, the challenges are real. We work very closely with the British Retail Consortium and with its Welsh members to make sure that the assistance that the public purse provides to those businesses is as effective as we can make it. First Minister Questions: Drakeford stands by under-fire Health Minister saying serious response not scalp-hunting needed This article is old - Published: Wednesday, May 8th, 2019 The below is the another in our now regular summaries of this weeks First Minister Questions session from Cardiff Bay. First Minister Questions takes place every Tuesday when the Assembly is sitting and can be watched live via Senedd.tv For those who have never ventured onto the Senedd site, you can view the session the below was taken from here, that displays a video of the meeting (along with creation of your own clips!) plus by clicking the meeting information and papers link you are able to view all the supporting documentation, along with a link to the full transcript. Wrexham was mentioned this week in terms of health that dominated the session, with the Leader of the Welsh Conservatives AM Paul Davies noting the following while asking why the First Minister had not sacked Vaughan Gething AM, Now, your health Minister has been directly responsible for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board since it was put into special measures four years ago next month. Since then, 29 per cent of patients in the Betsi Cadwaladr area are waiting more than four hours to be seen in A&E; 43 per cent of patients at Wrexham Maelor Hospital wait more than four hours in A&E; and, this is the worst in Wales, 38 people have died in unexplained or unintended incidents whilst in the care of Betsi Cadwaladr38 deaths reported in the last year, which could have been avoided. This is more than all the other health boards put together. The question came about after last weeks reports into the Cwm Taf maternity service scandal, with a motion of confidence is due to be debated today. The First Minister accused Paul Davies of offering a partial and distorted account, I must say I think that last remark simply trivialises the importance of the issues that the Member rightly pointed to earlier in his question. Ever since these matters came to light, our focus has been on those brave women who came forward in Cwm Taf and who insisted that their stories were told, who haveas we knowsuffered significant harm in their lives, which will be something that will live with them for many, many years to come, and what we need is a serious response to that position, not a scalp-hunting response. He added, it is the serious actions that the Minister has taken, and those actions will go on, because hes to be advised on any further action required to improve maternity services in Cwm Taf, as a result of the arrangements that he has put in place. Thats a serious reaction to a genuinely serious position, and thats the sort of health service and thats the sort of Government that I think people in Wales are entitled to see and to continue to see in the future. Poverty is unacceptable; its austeritys fault Filling in for Adam Price, Rhun ap Iorwerth AM (Plaid, Ynys Mon) asked about poverty rates; 29% of children in Wales were living in relative poverty was that acceptable? Of course, that is unacceptable, Llywydd. In the first decade of devolution, the number of children living in poverty in Wales went down year-on year. What were talking about is the period of austerity.We are doing everything that we can as a Government, but the responsibility lies in the hands of the United Kingdom Government, because of the actions theyve taken in the field of benefits, for example. That is what is creating the numbers of children living in poverty in Wales. First Minister, Mark Drakeford (Lab, Cardiff West) Rhun ap Iorwerth AM wasnt going to stop there, noting numerous governments in the Senedd have missed poverty reduction targets, I also recall that a series of Governments here have been missing their targets on tackling child poverty since the inception of devolution. This is one of the things that could arise as a topic for discussion in marking 20 years of devolution. He added, In a few weeks time, this Assembly will discuss a motion signed by Members of many parties, including the party of Government, calling for a strategy to tackle poverty with a budget and specific action points. Isnt it scandalous, after 20 years of Labour Government, that we are still in a situation where one feels that we need to have such a strategy? Backbench Members are eager to take action. The Assembly, if you like, is eager to take action, but its the Welsh Labour Government that has failed time and time again, just as you have failed to resolve the problems of the health service. The First Minister rejected that view, It will be for people in Wales, then, to decide whether or not what they want is another strategy, or whether they want the sort of practical actions that this Government is committed to making in the field of child povertyin the things that we have done to more than double the school uniform grant; in the extra millions of pounds that we have found to bring thousands more children into free school meals in Wales; the fact that, even in this really difficult period of austerity, Wales is the only part of the United Kingdom that has a national approach to tackling holiday hunger, and we have nearly doubled the amount of money that we will put into that during the coming summer. Its for people in Wales to decide whether they would rather another strategy or would rather a Government that does those practical things, that uses the powers that we have every day to put to work to improve the lives of children in Wales. Are private hospitals filling a community hospital shaped gap? Llyr Gruffydd AM (Plaid, North Wales) asked about community hospitals, to which the First Minister said that moving services from acute hospitals to community hospitals was central to the NHSs future, demonstrated by a 40million investment in a new community hospital at Rhyl. But. Would you agree with me that a private hospital thats about to be built in the St Asaph area shows that the closure of community hospitals back in 2013 was a mistake? Because some 50 beds were lost when the community hospitals were lost in Flint, Llangollen, Prestatyn and Blaenau Ffestiniog. Now, many of us warned.at the time that that step-up, step-down provision was required, particularly with an ageing population in north Wales. But the health board and your Government insisted on the closure of those h ospitals. Llyr Gruffydd AM The First Minister didnt agree with it at all saying it is crucial that community hospital services are modernised and at many new community hospitals more services are provided to their respective communities that were there before. The fact a private hospital has been planned in north Wales didnt mean anything regarding public sector services in north Wales. 20MPH Zones default for residential areas Welsh Conservatives David Melding AM asked for a statement on 20mph zones and we have details on that here Business rates blamed as data claims 1,100 fewer shops in Wales since 2010 a drop of 9% Welsh Conservatives Mohammad Asghar AM enquired of the First Minister What action is the Welsh Government taking to support the retail sector? we have the full exchange here. Keep up to date with what is going on in the Senedd via SeneddHome.com Praise for exceptionally warm and caring atmosphere at Caia Park primary school This article is old - Published: Wednesday, May 8th, 2019 A primary school in Caia Park has been praised for its exceptionally warm and caring atmosphere by inspectors. Estyn, Her Majestys Inspectorate for Education and Training in Wales, visited St Annes School on Prince Charles Road in February. The Catholic primary school, which has 185 pupils, was found to be good in all areas inspected including its standards, wellbeing and attitudes to learning, teaching and learning experiences; care, support and guidance and leadership and management. As part of its findings the inspectorate states that the school places strong importance on ensuring pupils wellbeing and providing a high level of support and guidance. It continues onto say: There is an exceptionally warm and caring atmosphere in the school and this helps pupils to feel valued. Most pupils behave well and have positive attitudes to learning. The headteacher has been successful in developing a collaborative ethos among staff. She shares their vision and aspirations for improvement with all stakeholders effectively. As pupils move through the school, most become very capable mathematicians who enjoy solving problems. They develop effective speaking and listening skills, often from low starting points, and make strong progress with their reading. Staff generally plan stimulating and engaging indoor and outdoor learning activities, and most take good account of pupils ideas. This helps pupils to become independent, resilient and confident learners. The report also draws attention to the care, support and guidance at the school which is described as providing a caring, inclusive environment where staff and pupil wellbeing is central to its ethos and work. The report adds: The high level of care, support and guidance that staff provide for pupils is a strength of the school. Staff know pupils well and provide a nurturing environment that builds pupils confidence and self-esteem. They teach pupils effectively about important values and how to respect and appreciate others. Provision for pupils with additional learning needs, including those in the resource provision, is good. Teachers analyse a range of information about pupils in the school and use this information and a range of data effectively to raise standards. Five recommendations have been put to the school to take forward, including: Address the health and safety issues highlighted during inspection Ensure that teaching and learning experiences meet the needs of all pupils Monitor the impact of school improvement planning robustly, and share good practice regularly across the school Develop opportunities for all pupils to make choices about how and what they learn Improve pupils attendance The school will now draw up an action plan to address the recommendations from the inspector. *Picture: Google Maps Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo (C), U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer (R), and Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland pose for photos during a press conference after the seventh round of talks to modernize the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), in Mexico City, capital of Mexico, on March 5, 2018. (Xinhua/Francisco Canedo) OTTAWA, May 5 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump has "messed up the clock" on getting the renegotiated NAFTA deal ratified and the deal in its current form is dead, said former U.S. Ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman in an interview on CTV Sunday. After nearly 14 months of negotiations, a trilateral trade pact named USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) was reached last fall. All attention has been focused on ratification given that the existing NAFTA will remain in place until its revamped version is fully ratified. However, U.S. Democrats said that the deal without changes won't have their vote, nor will they allow a vote in the U.S.Congress until Mexico changes its labor laws. In addition to these sticking points, Canada has expressed that it will not sign the deal as long as the U.S.-imposed steel and aluminum tariffs are in place. "Let me be really clear that the USTR (United States Trade Representative) and Donald Trump mishandled this from day one. Had they just quickly passed a deal in 2017, signed an agreement between the three countries ... in early 2018, he had the Congress, he had the Senate, he had the Mexican government in place, and there were no elections coming up here," Heyman said. "He could have passed it, scored a victory, and it's done. They messed up the clock. Second, they did not collaborate or communicate with unions, nor did they work with the Democrats. So now they find themselves in a position where the Democrats, and the unions in the United States have a different perspective," he said. Heyman said that Republicans have been pushing Trump to drop the tariffs, which were imposed by the U.S. last spring in the midst of NAFTA talks, citing national security concerns as their justification. "I think he's in a really bad place on this deal," Heyman said of Trump. Canada responded with its countermeasures on American steel, aluminum, and other goods. Canadian officials have already said these retaliatory measures will be lifted the minute the American dropped its tariffs. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-07 23:28:01|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close Electoral officials work at a polling station in the Crawford College in Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 7, 2019. South Africa will see on Wednesday its sixth general national election since the first one in 1994. (Xinhua/Chen Cheng) CAPE TOWN, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Any disruption to elections constitutes a criminal offence, the South African Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) said on Tuesday as the country is poised to hit the polls on May 8. The South African Police Service (SAPS) will remain on high alert in high risk areas to ensure no disruptions to the elections, the IEC said in its latest update on the state of readiness for the elections. The commission reported a significant decline in community protests for the past week, commission spokesperson Kate Bapela said. In those instances where protest action did continue, police were very quick to intervene to restore calm, said Bapela. A minimum of two police officers will be deployed to each voting station, he said. The country's 22,924 voting stations are all poised and ready to open at 7 am on Wednesday to welcome voters, Bapela said. The stations will remain open until 9 pm when counting is scheduled to begin, however voting will continue after 9 pm where voters are waiting in the queue, he said. Earlier, the government assured the public that all areas will be accessible for all citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote. Under a government plan, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will work with all the concerned departments to ensure that these elections happen in a safe and secure environment. In the elections, a new National Assembly and provincial legislatures in each province will be elected. The elections, the sixth since the end of apartheid in 1994, will also determine who will become the next president. President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the ruling African National Congress, with the party attempting to retain its majority status and secure Ramaphosa a full term in office as president. Ramaphosa took over from his predecessor Jacob Zuma who resigned in February 2018. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 00:14:01|Editor: yan Video Player Close COLOMBO, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Tuesday said that 56 suspects linked to the Easter Sunday terror explosions were in police custody. Addressing Parliament, Sirisena said that security forces had been successful in identifying all those involved in the terror attacks and they had been able to restore normalcy in the country. In extensive search operations conducted so far, 13 safe houses used by the terrorists and 41 of their bank accounts had also been identified, he added. "I have told the security forces to destroy all those connected to the attacks on April 21," the president said. He said security forces had also seized several explosives and 15 vehicles used by the terrorists. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said in Parliament that security forces had taken steps to normalize the situation in the island nation following the explosions, but warned the threat had not been completely neutralized as it was an issue of global terrorism. Wickremesinghe said the police were continuing to investigate the bombings, and all living suspects directly connected to the attacks had been arrested, while others closely linked were being investigated and arrested. Over 250 people were killed and over 500 injured in the Easter Sunday explosions which targeted three churches and three luxury hotels. President Sirisena recently said the local National Tawheed Jammaat was responsible for the attacks and its members had links to the Islamic State group. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 02:45:23|Editor: yan Video Player Close ADEN, Yemen, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Three suspected members of the Yemen-based al-Qaida branch were killed in a U.S. drone raid in Yemen's eastern Marib province on Tuesday, a government official told Xinhua. An American drone launched a raid and targeted a four-wheel-drive vehicle as it was passing through a sub-route of in Wadi Ubaida district of Marib province, the local government official said on condition of anonymity. The source said that the raid killed three elements suspected of belonging to al-Qaida group and completely destroyed their vehicle at the scene. Local media reports said "three charred bodies were found in a vehicle in Wadi Ubaida district, Marib province, after hearing a huge explosion caused by an airstrike." The Yemen-based al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), which carries out sporadic attacks against Yemeni government forces in different areas of the country's southern and eastern regions, revealed no statement to confirm or deny the U.S. airstrike. The AQAP network, mostly operating in eastern and southern provinces, has been responsible for many high-profile attacks against security forces in Yemen. The U.S. military has carried out several airstrikes against AQAP fighters in different provinces of the war-torn Arab country since U.S. President Donald Trump approved expanded military operations against the group. The AQAP, seen by the United States as the global terror network's most dangerous branch, has exploited years of deadly conflict between Yemen's government and Houthi rebels to expand its presence, especially in the southeastern provinces. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 03:35:55|Editor: yan Video Player Close BAKU, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese technology giant Huawei will assist Baku Higher Oil School in creating an information and communications technology (ICT) academy and state-of-the-art laboratory as the company signed an agreement with the university on Tuesday. Under the agreement, Huawei will contribute to the project by supplying the university with necessary equipment and software free of charge. Speaking at the signing ceremony, rector of Baku Higher Oil School Elmar Gasimov commended Huawei for the assistance. He said cooperation with the Chinese company plays an indispensable role in crafting skills of the university's students to cultivate them as highly-qualified specialists. Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Azerbaijan Wang Chungang said such a firm collaboration will strengthen relations between the two countries. CEO of Huawei Technologies Azerbaijan Lu Canlin said the company is excited to contribute to the project. He expressed Huawei's readiness to assist Azerbaijani students majoring in automation in their aspiration to advance knowledge. Huawei and Baku Higher Oil School signed a memorandum of understanding early this year, giving the university's students the opportunity to take internships at the company and fostering knowledge sharing between Huawei specialists and students. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 04:06:22|Editor: yan Video Player Close BELGRADE, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Thanks to implemented reforms, Serbia today has the potential for fast and dynamic growth at an annual rate of 7 percent, World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia Cyril Muller said here Tuesday. Visiting World Bank delegation led by Muller said they were satisfied with Serbia's results "especially when it comes to surplus in the state budget, decreasing level of public debt, stable growth of investments and decrease in unemployment", according to a statement by Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic's cabinet. Muller met with Vucic and several Serbian government officials in the day. Vucic told Muller that Serbia will implement all necessary reforms, from tax administration to mining and energy so that it could achieve a 7-percent growth in the future. "Serbia does not have problems with finances, but requires higher growth in order for people to achieve better living standard," Vucic said. World Bank representatives also attended signing of three new agreements for loans with Serbia worth 142 million U.S. dollars that are intended for projects that will "contribute to modernization of tax administration, e-government, and regional trade". Muller also had a separate meeting with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic, with whom he discussed upcoming reforms and improvement of legal framework and business environment. According to official figures, the Serbian economy grew 2.3 percent year on year in the first quarter of 2019 from the same period last year. In 2018, it expanded around 4.4 percent. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 04:06:23|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close LAGOS, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF), which was wrapped up in Beijing over a week ago, would strengthen international development and create more opportunities for developing countries, including Nigeria, a Chinese diplomat said on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters in Lagos, Nigeria's economic hub, on the outcome of the second BRF, acting Chinese Consul General in Lagos Guan Zhongqi said that Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, has a strategic role to play in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Proposed by China in 2013, the BRI is a transcontinental long-term policy and investment program which aims at infrastructure development and acceleration of the economic integration of countries along the routes of the historic Silk Road. The BRI opens up new opportunities for Nigeria and China, which maintain traditional cooperation, Guan said, noting that the Beijing gathering has great potential and is beneficial to both countries. "The BRI reflects China's determination to promote an all-round pattern of opening up, and deepening of our reform and opening up," he said. China's new reform and opening up measures will help expand foreign market access in a broader area, strengthen international cooperation on intellectual property rights protection, increase imports of goods and services on a larger scale, and effectively implement international macro-economic policies, the diplomat told reporters. According to him, China's opening-up policy will provide greater opportunities for Belt and Road cooperation and promote win-win prosperity for all countries. Guan said the second BRF is one of China's most important diplomatic events this year with the significance of building an open world economy, building the Belt and Road from a strategic perspective. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 04:21:26|Editor: yan Video Player Close HOUSTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Interacting with the world's leading companies is key to maintaining competitiveness in deep water equipment manufacturing industry, a Chinese company leader said Tuesday in Houston, Texas, the United States. Yu Ya, a senior executive of China International Marine Containers (Group) Ltd. (CIMC), made the remarks at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) that kicked off in Houston on Monday. Interviewed by Xinhua, Yu said deep water equipment industry is very international and the global supply chain of the industry needs strong interactivity. "The interactivity is vital for us to be competitive in the global market." Participating in OTC for 15 consecutive years, CIMC has grown from a follower to a company with independent R&D capabilities. "Many of our industrial chain and innovation chain partners have been participating in OTC. Only if we keep pace with the development of the industry and create interactivity with advanced companies can we transform from a follower to a leader," Yu said. OTC, the world's largest annual oil and gas trade show, is held in Houston from Monday through Thursday. Chinese participants in the event include state-run leading companies such as China National Offshore Oil Corp. and China National Petroleum Corp., as well as private enterprises from across the country. The technical program of the four-day event includes more than 80 sessions, industry breakfasts and themed luncheons covering a wide range of topics. This year's new program, Around the World Series, features global industry leaders from Australia, Canada, France, Ghana, Guyana, Israel, Mexico, Norway and Britain to discuss new licensing and business opportunities, as well as recently introduced technologies. Founded in 1969, OTC provides a platform for energy professionals to exchange thoughts to advance scientific and technical knowledge on offshore resources and environmental matters. CIMC is a world leading supplier of logistics and energy equipment, headquartered in Shenzhen of China. CIMC is dedicated to supplying high-quality and reliable equipment and services, including containers, vehicles, energy, chemical and food equipment, offshore, logistics services, and airport facilities, according to its online company profile. Credit: DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory WASHINGTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced on Tuesday its plan to deliver the world's most powerful computer in 2021, with a performance of about 12 times the speed rating of the fastest computing system built to date. The system called Frontier and based on AMD's high-performance, AI-optimized CPU and GPU technology will run at a speed greater than 1.5 exaflops, according to DOE. It came after the DOE unveiled its plan in March to build an exascale supercomputer called Aurora based on Intel's CPU technology, which can run at a speed greater than one exaflop. Aurora is also to be delivered in 2021. An exaflop is a quintillion of calculations per second. A quintillion is a one with a whopping eighteen zeros behind it. "Frontier will accelerate innovation in AI by giving American researchers world-class data and computing resources to ensure the next great inventions are made in the United States," said U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry. Now, the IBM supercomputer called Summit is ranked the fastest computing system in the world, a notch occupied by China's Sunway TaihuLight and Tianhe 2A for five years. Summit's top performance is 122.3 petaflops while its theoretical performance may reach 200 petaflops. (One exaflop is 1,000 petaflops.) The Frontier is to be installed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee State where Summit is now installed. Its total contract valued is over 600 million U.S. dollars, about 100 million more than the Aurora contract, according to the DOE. However, Frontier and Aurora may not necessarily guarantee the U.S. with strongest computing power in the world in coming years. China is also building its exascale supercomputers and their final versions are expected to come out in 2020 or 2021. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 04:41:40|Editor: yan Video Player Close LONDON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Prime Minister Theresa May's hopes of people in Britain avoiding having to vote in the European Parliament elections were dashed on Tuesday. Cabinet Office Minister and May's de facto deputy David Lidington said the EU parliament vote on May 23 will go ahead, even though the MEPs elected will not take their places in Brussels if a Brexit deal is agreed. May had been hoping that her deal or an alternative withdrawal agreement could be raced through the British Parliament to enable the voting in Britain to be cancelled. The Daily Telegraph in London reported Tuesday night that May is targeting July 1 her latest target day for when she wants Britain to leave the EU after abandoning a deadline for a Brexit agreement with the main opposition Labour party. Britain now has until Oct. 31 to reach a deal, but May wants an earlier exit from the bloc. Talks between May's Conservatives and Labour took place earlier Tuesday, and will resume Wednesday, but so far no joint deal between the two has emerged. Labour's shadow business secretary Rebecca Long Bailey said Tuesday's talks had been very robust, but nothing had been agreed. She said the government needed to move on its "red lines" in order to reach a compromise Labour could support. Lidington said the government is redoubling its efforts to ensure a Brexit deal is passed by the British Parliament in time to prevent MEPs taking up their seats in Brussels, the report added. A Downing Street spokesperson said Tuesday night that the prime minister deeply regrets the UK did not leave as planned in March and recognizes many people felt great frustration that the European elections were going ahead. "But she hopes Parliament will agree a Brexit plan before MEPs start their session in July," May's spokesperson added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 04:46:45|Editor: yan Video Player Close DOHA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Qatar on Tuesday allocated the sum of 480 million U.S. dollars for the Palestinian people in a bid to alleviate their suffering and lack of proper services, according to the Qatar News Agency (QNA). Qatar offered 300 million U.S. dollars in grants and loans to support the health and education budget of the Palestinian National Authority, QNA quoted the Qatari foreign ministry as saying. The State of Qatar also earmarked the sum of 180 million U.S. dollars to provide urgent humanitarian relief support for the UN programs in Palestine and support the electricity services, it added. Meanwhile, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, in a release quoted by the official Palestinian news agency WAFA, said the Qatari grant would help ease the suffering of the Palestinian people. Ismail Haniyeh, the chief of Hamas politburo, in a press release a copy of which was obtained by Xinhua, expressed gratitude for the Qatari emir's decision to allocate that sum for the support of the "Palestinian people's steadfastness." A model of a pipeline is seen at the main entrance to the Gomel Transneft oil pumping station, which moves crude through the Druzhba pipeline westwards to Europe, near Mozyr some 300 km (185 miles) southeast of Minsk January 8, 2010. (REUTERS PHOTO) MOSCOW, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Uncontaminated oil will start running again through the Druzhba pipeline to all the foreign consumers in the second half of May after a short suspension due to contamination, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said Tuesday. "As for the general normalization of the situation, we expect it in the second half of May. Work continues in this direction," Novak said at a government meeting, adding that normalization means clearing in each of the main export destinations. On April 23, Belarus suspended the export of light oil products to Ukraine, Poland and the Baltic states after its state concern for oil and chemistry Belneftekhim reported a sharp deterioration in the quality of the Russian oil running through the Druzhba pipeline. Currently, clean oil has resumed pumping through the pipeline to Belarus and Ukraine, Novak said. The minister said that Russian investigation services had revealed a group of companies, which were using organochlorine compounds in an excessive amount in the oil to the Druzhba pipeline. A source of oil contamination has been identified in the Lopatino metering unit in the Samara region in southwestern Russia, according to the minister. "A criminal case was initiated... Four people were detained and placed in a detention facility by a court decision," Novak said. Inspection documents have been transferred to the prosecutor's office, and Russia's Federal Security Service and the Investigative Committee are carrying out a set of operational measures and investigative actions, the minister added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 05:37:20|Editor: yan Video Player Close TALLINN, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Estonian President Kersti Kaljulaid Tuesday visited the ongoing multinational Spring Storm military exercise West Viru County and East Viru County in northern Estonia. Accompanied on the trip by Estonian Defense Forces (EDF) Chief of Staff Veiko-Vello Palm, Kaljulaid was received by EDF Deputy Commander Indrek Sirel at Tapa army base in West Viru County, the command headquarters of the Estonia's annual large-scale military exercise, said an EDF statement. "Spring Storm is the final test for the future reserve forces, and also the opportunity for the defense of the country of Estonia to be realized," Kaljulaid was quoted as saying in the statement. Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces Rajmund Andrzejczak, who arrived in Estonia on Monday for a two-day visit, also visited the Spring Storm exercise on Tuesday. On Monday, Martin Herem, the Commander of the Estonian Defense Forces, received the Polish delegation at Amari air base in Harju County. Andrzejczak also met with Estonian Minister of Defense Juri Luik. Over 9,000 participants from 17 countries are taking part in the 16th annual Spring Storm military exercise from April 29 to May 17, said the EDF statement. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 09:10:27|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close Yemeni people queue to receive food provided by a local charity foundation at Hiziaz area in Sanaa, Yemen, on May 7, 2019. The Amalona Social Development Foundation provides food to more than 3,100 families in Sanaa who are affected by more than four years of conflict. Each family member could receive a bag of rice and a bag of bread and yogurt daily during the Ramadan. (Xinhua/Mohammed Mohammed) Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 09:38:41|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close RAMALLAH, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed gratitude to Qatar for its financial support for the cash-strapped Palestinian Authority (PA), Palestinians' official news agency reported Tuesday. According to a statement published by the official Palestine News Agency, Abbas thanked the Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for allocating 480 million U.S. dollars, saying "the aid will contribute to alleviating the hardships facing the Palestinians." "The aid, which will be both loans and grants, will help the Palestinian people overcome some of their hardships, face the challenges and strengthen their steadfastness on their land," Abbas was quoted by the statement as saying. The PA Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that 180 million dollars will be allocated for "urgent humanitarian relief" in the UN programs and for supporting electricity services, while the remaining 300 millions will be earmarked for supporting PA's health and education programs. Two senior PA officials, Abbas's Fatah Party Central Committee member Hussein al-Sheikh and Minister of Finance Shukri Bishara, recently visited Qatar to brief its leaders on the difficult situation facing the Palestinians cause. The Qatari government announced that it will support the PA with a 480 million-dollar grant earlier Tuesday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 09:48:50|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close NEW YORK, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The United States has every reason to work with China in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to build connectivity and jointly address global development issues, a senior Chinese diplomat has said. In a signed article published on local newspaper Pittsburgh Post-Gazette over the weekend, Chinese Consul General in New York Huang Ping noted that the BRI could serve as a converging point for China-U.S. cooperation in addressing uneven development across the world through promoting connectivity in trade, policy, infrastructure, finance and people-to-people ties. In the article titled "Converging Point," Huang wrote that the United States could join and make the most of the BRI, which offers more opportunities of mutual learning and understanding by connecting different societies and civilizations, as members of the BRI have already reaped many tangible benefits since the initiative was launched six years ago. "It is the right time for the U.S. to ride the tides of the global economy, when a vast number of developing countries have entered into accelerated industrialization. It is also a good opportunity to share knowledge and standards, and demonstrate real leadership," the diplomat said. Additionally, the BRI boasts potential for "bringing new momentum" to the development of U.S.-China ties, he added. Over a week ago, the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation was held in Beijing, with delegates from more than 150 countries and 90 international organizations exchanging thoughts on further facilitating cooperation. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 10:19:09|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close CANBERRA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Penny Wong, foreign affairs spokesperson of Australia's opposition Australian Labor Party (ALP), has accused the fake news campaign on social media. Wong has called on Prime Minister Scott Morrison to "rule out" any involvement on behalf of the governing Liberal Party "in the malicious false content" targeting Labor on WeChat, China's largest messaging platform, in the lead-up to the general election on May 18, according to the Guardian Australia on Tuesday. "We have robust political debates. We don't have major political parties engaging in fake news on this media platform or any other media platform," she said. "It is incumbent upon Scott Morrison to rule out any Liberal Party involvement in the malicious false content that is circulating on WeChat." A Liberal party spokesman responded "These are not ads distributed by the Liberal party. All Liberal party advertising carries an official authorization." WeChat has emerged as a key battleground in the election campaign as both parties fight for the support of Chinese-Australians in marginal seats that could be deciding factors in the result on election night. The ALP has deployed Kevin Rudd, the Mandarin-speaking former prime minister, in those electorates in an attempt to win back Chinese support from the government. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 10:19:11|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close HAVANA, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Spanish Minister of Industry, Trade and Tourism Reyes Maroto said Tuesday the European nation and Cuba are working to improve the management of their tourism models for greater quality and efficiency. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2019 International Tourism Fair of Cuba, with Spain as the guest country of honor, Maroto said the tourism industry is key to the development of both nations and the main source of foreign currency. "We must work for a transformation that guarantees the highest profitability and sustainability in the medium and long term and allows us to maintain the position of world leadership that our destinations hold today," said the senior Spanish official. "We want a model that adapts permanently, which is able to respond to an environment with constant changes," she added. The minister said many Spanish firms are currently expanding and want to participate firsthand in the changes that occur in the Cuban tourism model. "In Cuba we have an important presence of Spanish companies in the tourism industry that are agents which stimulate the economy. Their commitment and vocation for permanence here are very important," she said. "Today in Cuba, tourism can be a source of foreign currency to finance sustained economic development. In addition, it can impact other sectors such as agriculture, construction, transport, cultural heritage and trigger social inclusion," she added. She also announced a second fund of 375 million euros (about 420 million U.S. dollars) to finance the island's local currency priority development projects linked to the interests of Spanish companies. The minister rejected the recent activation of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act by U.S. President Donald Trump against Cuba. The controversial act, revived four days ago by Washington, allows U.S. citizens to establish lawsuits against foreign companies operating in Cuba on nationalized properties after 1959. Maroto said Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will seek to mediate with the Trump administration to solve this issue and prevent "any kind of commercial war." Implementing Title III of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act, which had been suspended by every U.S. president since Bill Clinton, aims to dash foreign investment in Cuba and further strengthen the nearly six-decade-old economic embargo against the island nation, according to observers. Also, it would unleash thousands of claims over major properties like factories, industries, tourism infrastructure, government buildings and even houses where ordinary Cubans live today. Maroto also stressed that the income of the Cuban tourism industry in 2018 reached more than 3.3 billion dollars. This year, the island nation is expected to receive a record high of 5 million international visitors. Maroto praised the wide range of investments in the sector to increase hotel offers and provide more competitive products with higher quality. Spain is Cuba's third largest trading partner. According to official figures, Spain's exports to the island grew 5 percent in 2018 to around 900 million euros (about 1 billion dollars). Madrid is Havana's main European partner with a market share close to 40 percent. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 10:24:20|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close LOS ANGELES, May 7 (Xinhua) -- China was a key contributor to Los Angeles record tourism revenue in 2018, said a U.S. official following the release of a new report on economic impact of the county's tourism on Tuesday. Visitors pumped an all-time high volume of 23.9 billion U.S. dollars directly into the economy of the Los Angeles County on the U.S. west coast in 2018, generating a record 36.6 billion dollars in total economic impact, according to the report released by the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board. "As our number one overseas international market, China once again played a significant role in achieving our eighth consecutive year of record tourism in Los Angeles with 1.2 million visitors who directly spent 1.6 billion dollars in our local economy," Ernest Wooden Jr., president and chief executive of the board, told Xinhua in a written answer. Los Angeles welcomed 50 million visitors in 2018, setting records with 42.5 million domestic visitors and 7.5 million international visitors. Visitor spending in 2018 was 1.2 billion dollars higher than 2017's total, up by 5 percent. The number of Chinese visitors in 2018 was up 6.9 percent from 2017. It's the largest net gain among all international markets for Los Angeles. Chinese visitors also spent the most per capita while traveling in the United States last year. "Looking ahead, we continue to seek new opportunities to grow our market share as our latest forecast indicated another strong year from China," Wooden noted. "L.A. Tourism is continuing to invest more marketing resources in the China market than any other international country to ensure Los Angeles remains a premier destination for Chinese travelers," he added. The Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board has four offices in the Chinese mainland and is likely to open another office soon. Tourism, one of the pillar industries in Los Angeles, supported 534,258 jobs in Los Angeles County's leisure and hospitality sector, its highest total on record, employing one in every 8.5 workers in the county. Reaffirming the strength of the sector, tourism added 9,700 new jobs last year, the organization reported. "Tourism is an essential source of job creation and business activity across our region -- and it helps make Los Angeles a global city and a center of economic growth and prosperity," said Mayor Eric Garcetti in a press release. "From surpassing 50 million annual visitors in 2018 to preparing to welcome the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, travel and tourism will continue to power our city to new heights," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 10:29:31|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close SAO PAULO, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's motor vehicle exports dropped 52.3 percent in April from a year earlier, the National Association of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (Anfavea) said Tuesday. The Anfavea said in a report that the fall was largely due to the economic crisis in Argentina. The neighboring South American country accounts for 70 percent of the sales abroad of the Brazilian-made vehicles. "Factories are trying to find other markets so as to make up for the loss of exports to Argentina," said Luiz Carlos Moraes, the Anfavea president. In April, Brazil exported 34,905 units of vehicles, and it is projecting a total export of around 500,000 units for 2019. The output of cars, trucks and buses grew 0.5 percent to 267,546 units in April from a year earlier, the Anfavea report said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 10:50:02|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility will see its research capability more than double within the next three years, the China Daily reported Wednesday. There will be 40 beam lines and 60 laboratories in operation at the facility by 2022, up from the current 15 beam lines and 19 laboratories, the newspaper quoted Zhao Zhentang, the facility's director, as saying. The facility operates 7,000 hours a year. It is involved in frontier scientific research in various fields, including life sciences, new materials, physics, chemistry, environmental sciences and archaeology, Zhao said on its 10-year anniversary. While there were only 300 users when the facility opened in 2009, the number has surged to more than 24,600, including 100 overseas users mainly from the Republic of Korea, Japan, Australia and Canada, the newspaper said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 11:00:07|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close BRUSSELS, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The European Commission said Tuesday that "trade tensions" with China and "protectionist moves" are among the prominent risks to the U.S. economy. The commission, the executive arm of the European Union (EU), said in its latest European Economic Forecast that U.S. "economic activity is set to moderate toward potential growth as tailwinds from macroeconomic policies are expected to fade." In the chapter on U.S. economy titled "Soft landing with prominent risks to the outlook," the EU body projected that after registering a 2.9-percent growth rate in 2018, the U.S. economic expansion may well lose steam, decelerating to 2.4 percent in 2019 and 1.9 percent in 2020. "Uncertainty related to a possible resolution of the US-China trade tensions remain elevated while the risk of further protectionist moves in US trade policy persists," said the report. The EU also warned that accommodative U.S. monetary policy at times when the economy is at full employment risks exacerbating imbalances and vulnerabilities, "especially as some asset valuations appear to be stretched and debt levels continue to rise." "Furthermore, the projected increase in the government debt level is set to limit the fiscal policy buffers in an event of economic downturn," said the forecast, predicting a "deteriorating fiscal position" of the U.S. economy. "We will continue to work with our partners for the bilateral and multilateral interest, upgrade local well-being, and it will be the best answer to his remarks," China's Arctic representative Gao Feng responds to US Secretary of State Pompeo's accusation xhne.ws/39fC4 Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 11:30:15|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Construction of the Karot hydropower project in Pakistan will be completed in two years and start power generation by April 2021, China Daily reported Wednesday, citing the developer China Three Gorges Corp. The project, with a total investment of 1.74 billion U.S. dollars, will solve the power supply bottleneck in Pakistan and provide sustainable and stable energy support. When completed, the 720-megawatt project that commenced construction in 2015 will annually produce some 3.2 billion kilowatt-hours of clean power, equivalent to 10 percent of Pakistan's total energy output from hydropower stations in 2017, said the report. Being the first investment project of the Silk Road Fund, the hydropower project will pay 23 million U.S. dollars in taxes to the Pakistani government and provide more than 2,200 jobs for locals during peak construction period, the paper reported. While Pakistan has limited capital to develop its rich hydropower resources, the cooperation of Pakistan and China, a world leader in hydroelectricity generation, will benefit both sides, Zhang Boting, a senior analyst at the China Society for Hydropower Engineering, was quoted as saying. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 11:30:17|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China's foreign trade of goods climbed 4.3 percent year on year in the first four months of this year to 9.51 trillion yuan (about 1.41 trillion U.S. dollars), customs data showed Wednesday. Exports increased by 5.7 percent year on year to 5.06 trillion yuan during this period, while imports went up by 2.9 percent to 4.45 trillion yuan, the General Administration of Customs said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 11:40:20|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close TOKYO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A vehicle has rammed into more than 10 children from a daycare center in western Japan, local media reported Wednesday. According to Japan's public broadcaster NHK, the motorist hit a group of 13 children along with three caregivers. They were struck by the driver at an intersection in Ostu City, Shiga Prefecture. Rescue officials said that more than 10 people have been injured including children, with some of them unconscious, including at least four of the children. First responders are treating victims at the scene, local media said, while others have been rushed to hospital. Local police at the scene said that they are looking into reports that the motorist plowed into the children and caregivers after being struck by another vehicle at the intersection. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 11:45:23|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close SEOUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Deputy nuclear envoys of South Korea and Russia discussed the Korean Peninsula issues in Russia's capital Moscow Tuesday, Seoul's foreign ministry said Wednesday. Jeong Yeon-doo, director-general of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) nuclear affairs bureau at the South Korean foreign ministry, visited Moscow on Tuesday to consult with his Russian counterpart Oleg Burmistrov, an ambassador-at-large for DPRK affairs. Jeong also had a luncheon meeting with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov. The diplomats from South Korea and Russia re-confirmed their common goal of the complete denuclearization of and the settlement of lasting peace on the peninsula, sharing a view that it will be significant for relevant countries to keep the momentum for dialogue with the DPRK. They agreed that it will be significant to make concerted efforts for the resumption of the talks between Pyongyang and Washington. The meeting came after the DPRK fired several short-range projectiles into the sea off its east coast Saturday. The denuclearization negotiations have been stalled since the second summit between top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump ended with no agreement in late February at the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi. The Russian side assessed the South Korean effort for the improvement in inter-Korean relations, expressing support for the South Korean role in the peninsula issues. South Korea and Russia agreed to closely communicate and cooperate for the peninsula issues at each level. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 12:15:42|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close by Zodidi Mhlana, Jing Jing and Wang Xiaopeng JOHANNESBURG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South Africans are flocking to about 23,000 voting stations across the nation on Wednesday to cast ballots that will determine which party is to rule the country in the next five years. The election, the country's sixth general election since the first such by the nation in 1994, is described by the media as a crucial one for the country and its current ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC). ANC LEADING POPULARITY A survey revealed Monday by Ipsos, a global market researcher, showed ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa was leading the popularity stakes, scoring 6.5 points out of 10, while Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Mmusi Maimane and the Economic Freedom Fighters' (EFF's) Julius Malema coming in second and third with 3.5 and 3.4 points respectively. The results indicated that the performance of Ramaphosa, along with the ANC, is recognized by the the majority of the people in the country. South Africa's current electoral system permits people to be chosen as public representatives on political party tickets but not as individuals. "It's a political party that then chooses its leader of the country through the proportional representation system," political analyst Shadrack Gutto told Xinhua. Another poll by the Institute of Race Relations has shown the ANC would bag about 53 percent of the vote nationally, with the DA likely to obtain 24 percent and the EFF 14 percent, if the turnout is around 70 percent. LOW YOUTHS TURNOUT Some have expressed concerns about the dwindling number of young people participating in this year's election, in which 26.7 million voters are expected. During the registration period, the Independent Electoral Commission visited universities to encourage young people to vote, but the number of the youth registered to vote has declined since 2014. There are 341,236 youths aged 18-19 registered to vote on Wednesday, but the figure was 643,133 in 2014. The number for the 20-29 age group also decreased, down from 5,759,236 to 5,299,297. Gutto said that behind the decline were socio-economic problems, which impact the young people most. "Young people are dissatisfied. Corruption is going up, unemployment is growing and it affects the youth. They are the ones entering the job market," he said. Jannie Rossouw, head of School of Economic and Business Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, said South Africa's youths might be unhappy with the levels of politics. They might not have confidence in any of the political parties, the political arena or the politicians. "Politicians have not led by example especially over the past five years. It's voter apathy," Rossouw said. EMERGING FORCES Rossouw said a stable government is essential for boosting investment and economic growth in South Africa. So, if the ANC has a comfortable margin above 50 percent, it will ensure stability. It will also mean that Ramaphosa has a lot of work to do. Though the ANC is still the first choice for most voters, the rapid rising of EFF cannot be ignored. Polls predict that the EFF is the only political party set to gain ground during the elections. Established six years ago by former ANC Youth League President Julius Malema, it obtained over 6 percent of the vote in its first election in 2014 and the number is predicted to be around 14 percent this time. Gutto cited EFF's great mobilization ability and young leadership as some of the reasons behind its growth. "EFF has been great at mobilizing at grassroots level. They have been able to reach out to the youth voters because they are led by the youth," Gutto said. According to Rossouw, the EFF has been running an influential campaign led by its leader Malema. "I don't think the DA will grow that much because of other issues they've been grappling with," Rossouw said. Gutto said the ANC could no longer rely on its glorious past to win support, instead it should root out corruption and widespread looting that became a norm under former President Jacob Zuma's administration. "This is a party of Nelson Mandela, or Tambo, but young people are not keen on voting for the past," he said. "The party can't be resting on the laurels of its past leaders." As Ramaphosa said in the final ANC rally, "This is a decisive moment in our history ... a moment when we have to choose between the past and the future." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 12:15:44|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close KABUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Two militants were killed following an airstrike in Afghanistan's eastern province of Kapisa, the latest in a string of airstrikes against the Taliban, the government said Wednesday. "Two enemy combatants were killed and one militants' vehicle was destroyed following an airstrike in Dara-e-Ghain locality, Nijrab district of Kapisa on Tuesday," Presidential Information Coordination Center (Tawhid Center) said in a statement. The statement did not say whether the sortie was conducted by Afghan Air Force or NATO-led coalition forces. The Afghan security forces, backed by the NATO-led coalition troops, have increased ground and air offensives against militants within the past few months as spring and summer known as fighting season is drawing near in the country. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 12:45:52|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close FARAH, Afghanistan, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Six Taliban militants were killed and four others detained in two separate military operations in Afghanistan's western province of Farah, the provincial government said on Wednesday. In one incident, six Taliban were killed after Afghan security forces conducted an operation in Raj village on outskirts of provincial capital Farah city on Tuesday. In another incident, four Taliban militants were arrested following a search operation in Khaki Safed district, north of Farah city, according to the statement. A weapons depot together with 35 rounds of weapons and four militants' vehicles were destroyed by the security forces after the raid. The Afghan security forces, backed by the NATO-led coalition troops, have increased ground and air offensives against militants within the past few months as spring and summer known as the fighting season is drawing near in the country. The Taliban militant group has yet to make comments on the report. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 12:45:54|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China's massive express delivery industry has joined the effort to fight illegal trade in protected wildlife and products by signing a self-regulatory convention on Tuesday, China Daily reported Wednesday. Twelve domestic companies, such as EMS and SF-Express, and international companies DHL and FedEx pledged various measures to refuse to transport protected wildlife and related products, the newspaper said. The convention, initiated by the China Express Association, also requires companies to strictly follow related laws and regulations, and to provide regular anti-trafficking training for their employees. The 14 companies account for around 90 percent of China's total express delivery market. Some cross-border trafficking gangs are taking advantage of the rapidly growing express industry to sell endangered wildlife and products from overseas to customers in China, Zhou Fei, chief program officer of the World Wildlife Fund China, was quoted as saying by the paper. China's customs authorities had seized more than 100 tons of endangered wildlife and related products between Jan 1 and April 15 this year, of which around 300 kilograms were ivory tusks and products, according to the General Administration of Customs. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:06:01|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A new report shows that destinations for overseas study become more diversified among Chinese students, China Daily reported Wednesday. The annual Report on Chinese Students' Overseas Study said that more students are showing preference to going to Britain, Australia and Canada. The United States, preferred by 43 percent of the respondents, remains as the first-choice destination for overseas study. However, the number declined by eight percentage points compared with 2015. The proportion of students who are willing to study in Britain increased to 41 percent, up nine percentage points compared with 2015. Australia and Canada come as the third and fourth most popular destinations for overseas study, accounting for 18 percent and 16 percent, respectively, according to the report. The report is based on a multiple choice survey conducted by a subsidiary of New Oriental Education and Technology Group and Kantar Millward Brown in the first two months this year, and has released for five consecutive years. A total of 6,228 students and their parents were covered in this survey. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:06:02|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 7 (Xinhua) -- The Pentagon confirmed on Tuesday that one U.S. soldier has died in a non-combat related incident in Afghanistan. The soldier, who was assigned to the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, died on Monday in Nangarhar Province, east Afghanistan, of wounds sustained from a non-combat related incident, said the U.S. Defense Department in a statement. The soldier was supporting Operation Freedom's Sentinel in Afghanistan, the statement added. The Pentagon said that the incident was under investigation. The U.S. military has seen multiple non-combat related deaths in Iraq and Syria in recent weeks. But reported deaths in Afghanistan were mostly engaged in combat operations. Fighting between government forces and Taliban fighters often gets intense in spring as it is locally branded as the fighting season. The United States maintained some 14,000 troops in Afghanistan, largely providing training missions to local Afghan forces while also conducting counterterrorism operations against terror groups such as Al Qaeda and the Islamic State. The death toll of U.S. servicemen in Afghanistan has surpassed 2,400 since the United States invaded the Asian country in 2001. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:21:08|Editor: Liu Video Player Close TOKYO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Two children died after a vehicle rammed into more than 10 preschoolers from a daycare center in western Japan, local media reported Wednesday. According to Japan's public broadcaster NHK, the motorist hit a group of 13 children aged between two and three years old. They were struck by the driver as they were waiting for the traffic lights to change at intersection in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, local media reported. Rescue officials said that 15 people have been injured including 13 kindergartners and at least two of their caregivers. First responders were treating victims at the scene, local media said, while others were rushed to hospital. Local police at the scene said that they are looking into reports that the motorist plowed into the children and caregivers after being struck by another vehicle at the intersection. The two drivers, both female, aged 52 and 62, were arrested by the police on the spot. An U.S. Air Force's F-16 Fighter flies during the Aero India 2015 in Air Force Station Yelahanka of Bangalore, India, Feb. 18, 2015. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) Taiwan regional leader Tsai Ing-wen asked US defense industry companies to help the island produce aircraft and vessels at a recent meeting, and Chinese mainland military observers said on Tuesday that this will damage regional peace but will not narrow the gap in military strength between the mainland and the island. According to the website of the island leader's office, Tsai met with a defense industry delegation from the US-Taiwan Business Council (USTBC) on Monday. Tsai said in order to "maintain cross-Strait peace and regional stability, Taiwan has been proactive in building its defense through arms purchases, and increasing its defense self-sufficiency by pursuing the domestic production of aircraft and sea vessels." Tsai said she hopes the USTBC could help Taiwan and the island's defense manufacturers link up with "the global supply chain and sell to a global market." The US business delegation is in Taiwan for the second Taiwan-US Defense Business Forum, expected to be held on Wednesday in Taoyuan, Taiwan, to discuss "granular issues of bilateral cooperation in the defense industry supply chain,"according to the USTBC website. Tsai has always been criticized by people of the island for spending huge money to "buy useless and outdated weapons from the US," said Li Jie, a Beijing-based naval expert, told the Global Times on Tuesday. Wei Dongxu, a Beijing-based military analyst, noted that since Tsai wants to get the support of US defense giants to upgrade F-16 fighter jets and build a submarine in the island, it is much easier to cooperate with US companies than with the US government. The US won't trust Taiwan and offer any advanced technologies, because once the reunification of China is achieved, these technologies will fall into the hands of the mainland, Li noted, while adding "Cooperation with US defense companies could improve Taiwan's military capability to some extent, mainland's overwhelming military advantage won't be affected at all," Li said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:36:19|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China's national social security fund saw its managed assets rise to 2.96 trillion yuan (about 437.9 billion U.S. dollars) as of the end of 2018, the National Council for Social Security Fund said. Founded in 2000, the national social security fund is designed to solve China's aging problem, and also as a strategic reserve to support future social security expenditure. The funding sources include fiscal allocation from the central government, allocation from the lottery public welfare proceeds, individual contributions and capital raised by other methods approved by the State Council. As China faces a huge challenge in caring for its increasingly large elderly population, experts have repeatedly called for wider investment scopes for the funds. Official data showed the fund gained 184.6 billion yuan from investment in 2017, with a 9.68-percent return. Since its founding, the fund's annual investment return averaged around 8.44 percent. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:46:22|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close SEOUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's unification ministry in charge of inter-Korean affairs said Wednesday that it will closely cooperate with the international community in pushing for food aid to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Lee Sang-min, spokesman of the Seoul ministry, told a press briefing that South Korea will push for a humanitarian food assistance for DPRK people in close cooperation with the international society. Lee noted that it will be pursued toward the people of the same race from the humanitarian perspective given the report by an international organization that the DPRK was under a very serious situation of food shortage. The comment came after U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his support for Seoul's food aid plan for Pyongyang during his phone talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in Tuesday night (Korean time). The spokesman said the food assistance will require several procedures such as discussion among relevant ministries, declining to comment on how and when to offer the assistance. In September 2017, the South Korean government decided to provide 8 million U.S. dollars of humanitarian assistance for the DPRK through international organizations, including the World Food Program (WFP), but it had yet to be spent amid international sanctions against Pyongyang. Asked about whether South Korea intends to provide the food aid directly to the DPRK, the spokesman noted that his country will push for it in close cooperation with the international community. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:56:28|Editor: Liu Video Player Close BANGKOK, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's Constitutional Court on Wednesday ruled unanimously that Section 128 of the MP election organic law pertaining to counting formula for party-list MP is constitutional. According to press statement on Wednesday, the court said Section 91 of the constitution and Section 128 of the MP election organic law both set a method to allocate party-list MPs with Section 128 specifies detailed calculation method to ensure there would be 150 list MPs and thus constitutional. The ruling clears the way for the Election Commission(EC) to announce the official results of the party-list MP allocation soon since they have to release it before Thursday, according to laws. The allocation method of party-list MP is controversial in Thailand as there were different understands of Section 128, which led to two formulas with one would give the opposition side more seats and the other lessens their seats, giving seats to many small parties. The EC may apply the latter since they earlier said there would be some 27 political parties entering the national assembly. EC announced on Tuesday that a list of 349 candidates who have won constituency-based MP seats in the March 24 election. Among them, the oppostion Pheu Thai (for Thais) Party won 136 seats, pro-government Palang Pracharath (power of people's state) Party won 97 seats, Bhumjaithai Party 39 seats, Democrat Party won 33 seats, Future Forward Party won 30 seats, Prachachart Party and Chartthaipattana Party, both won 6 seats, and Chartpattana Party and Action Coalition for Thailand Party both won 1 seat. The House of Representative of Thailand's national assembly consists of 350 constituency-based MPs and 150 party-list MPs. The total 500 MPs, together with 250 senators selected by the ruling National Council for Peace and Order led by current Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, would elect a new prime minister of Thailand. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:56:30|Editor: Liu Video Player Close MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Three people have been killed and five civilians wounded by gunshots in Afghanistan's northern province of Balkh, a local official said Wednesday. "A gunfight occurred following an argument between members of two local militia groups in Balkh district, western of provincial capital Mazar-i-Sharif city late Tuesday," provincial government spokesman Munir Ahmad Farhad told Xinhua. The wounded civilians were shifted to nearby hospital by Afghan National Police, the official said, adding that an investigation was undertaken into the incident. The police also recovered three bodies, suspected to be those of the militia groups' members, he said. Local authorities blamed the irresponsible armed groups for the incident, saying loose law as well as carrying arms by irresponsible armed men resulted in the armed clash. Ordinary Afghans usually suffer at the hands of irresponsible armed groups, particularly in remote areas, where the government control is weak. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 13:56:32|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close WELLINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The security implications of climate change will be firmly on the agenda at South Pacific Defence Ministers Meeting held from Wednesday to Friday in Fiji, New Zealand Defence Minister Ron Mark announced on Wednesday. "With the coalition government's Pacific Reset and the release of the Strategic Defence Policy Statement 2018, active engagement between New Zealand and South Pacific nations across all areas of cooperation has become more important than ever," said Mark. "Our region is experiencing intense environmental impacts from climate change, all of which have flow-on economic, cultural and social consequences, and have the potential to heighten security concerns in our region and further afield." The risk of concurrent and more extreme weather events is increasing, and over time there will be an increased requirement for regional defence forces to respond with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, more search and rescue missions, and potentially stability operations, Mark added. "I will be discussing these factors with my colleagues, alongside exchanges on regional security, operational commitments, counter-terrorism, military exercise coordination, and enhanced cooperation across our defence forces." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 14:01:39|Editor: Liu Video Player Close SYDNEY, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The first-ever commercial flight to produce "zero waste" has taken to the skies on Wednesday, as part of a new initiative from the Australian airline Qantas to cut single-use plastics that end up in landfill. Flying from Sydney to Adelaide, all products and packaging onboard QF739 will either be reused, recycled or disposed of as compost. "In the process of carrying over 50 million people every year, Qantas and Jetstar currently produce an amount of waste equivalent to 80 fully-laden Boeing 747 jumbo jets," Qantas Domestic CEO Andrew David said. "We want to give customers the same level of service they currently enjoy, but without the amount of waste that comes with it." "This flight is about testing our products, refining the waste process and getting feedback from our customers," he added. As well as all-digital boarding passes and electronic bag tags, around 1000 single-use plastic items were swapped for more environmentally friendly alternatives. With meal containers made from sugar cane and cutlery constructed from crop starch, David explained the new sustainable solutions will save around 34 kg of waste per flight, equating to 150 tons per year on the Sydney to Adelaide route. Set to roll out the initiative on other routes, Qantas said its goal is to eliminate 100 million single use plastic items every year by the end of 2020 by replacing 45 million plastic cups, 30 million cutlery sets, 21 million coffee cups and 4 million headrest covers with sustainable substitutes. From 2019, the airline will also offer customers frequent flyer points for participating in their carbon offset scheme. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 14:01:41|Editor: Liu Video Player Close TEHRAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in letters to five world leaders on Wednesday that Iran will scale back more compliance with nuclear deal in 60 days, according to media reports. Rouhani also said Iran will increase uranium enrichment level and ready for talks with Europe on Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 14:11:47|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close OTTAWA, May 7 (Xinhua)-- Canada's federal public prosecutors intend to drop the criminal charge of breach of trust against former Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, Canada's television network CTV reported Tuesday night. Norman is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday in Ottawa, where prosecutors are expected to outline their reasoning behind the dropped charge. Norman served as the military's second-in-command before he was charged in March 2018 with breach of trust for allegedly leaking cabinet secrets in favor of the Quebec-based Davie Shipbuilding in relation to a shipbuilding contract worth about 520 million U.S. dollars. Norman has denied any wrongdoing and his legal team argued that the charging against him was politically motivated. Earlier Tuesday, the Public Prosecution Service of Canada sent out a notice to media advising them that they "may wish to attend" the court session Wednesday morning. The charge against Norman has put the Liberal government in the firing line of the opposition Conservative Party, which has accused the Liberals of interfering in the case politically. Norman's lawyers have alleged that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's office and the Privy Council Office attempt to orchestrate the prosecution of the case. They also accused former Treasury Board President Scott Brison of trying to kill the lease deal on behalf of a rival shipyard. The Liberal government, the public prosecution service and Brison have all denied the accusations made in court and in court filings. Norman's lawyers have been fighting for access to federal documents for months. Hundreds of those documents have been released, but many key records were redacted. The government has said some documents were blacked out to protect solicitor-client privilege and because they contain cabinet secrets. The defense team challenged the government claims, saying Norman's prosecution is politically motivated. The battle over documents focuses on up to 36 memos, analysis reports and emails involving the Privy Council Office and the prime minister's office. Federal lawyers gave up on censoring seven documents linked to the case on Tuesday because they had been inadvertently read by the defense when other documents were disclosed. The government is still fighting to keep secret certain information in 29 other documents. Last week, CTV reported that Liberal MP Andrew Leslie was on the witness list to testify, if called, against the government. Leslie, who was previously a lieutenant-general, reportedly informed the prime minister's office more than a year ago that he would testify on behalf of Norman. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 14:11:49|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close LOS ANGELES, May 7 (Xinhua) -- An 18-year-old male student was killed and eight other students were injured in a shooting that occurred Tuesday afternoon at a charter school near Denver, capital of the U.S. western state of Colorado, local police confirmed. "It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in today's stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified," Douglas County Sheriff's Office tweeted about five hours after the fatal incident. Two suspects entered the school just before 2 p.m. local time (2000 GMT) and "got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations," according to Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock. "There were a number of students that were shot and injured," he said at a press briefing. He did not release the names of the victims and the suspects. Both suspects were arrested by policemen, who arrived at the scene in ten minutes, Spurlock said, adding that the investigators had recovered a handgun, but had no clue on the suspects' motive. He also announced that the school has been cleared before 5 p.m. local time (2300 GMT) and investigators are no longer looking for additional suspects. Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said the victims, who are all over 15 years, had gunshot wounds and were taken to three local hospitals. The Denver Post, a local newspaper, reported that at least four had been treated and released from hospitals by Tuesday evening. Nicholson-Kluth briefed reporters that the officers heard gunfire as they arrived and as they entered the building, saying "quite a few shots were fired." The incident occurred at STEM School Highlands Ranch, located about 32 km south from downtown Denver. There are about 1,850 students in the K-12 charter school. After hearing reports of the shooting, worried parents raced to the school to search for their children. They were redirected to a nearby recreation center to wait for reunions. Pictures posted online showed hundreds of parents crowded at the Northridge Recreation Center in Highlands Ranch, where students from the school were taken there by buses after the fatal incident. Many parents broke into tears when they found their children. Colorado Governor Jared Polis said in a tweet that the state is making an all out effort to assist the Douglas County Sheriff's Department secure the site and evacuate the students. "We are monitoring the situation in real time. The heart of all Colorado is with the victims & their families," he tweeted. After the shooting, U.S. President Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka, cancelled her scheduled Wednesday's trip to the Lockheed Martin facility in Littleton, 12 km north of Highlands Ranch. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 14:16:55|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close ULAN BATOR, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia's pasture was overloaded with livestock animals with 41.2 percent more than its carrying capacity, the country's parliament speaker Gombojav Zandanshatar said Tuesday. Zandanshatar made the remarks during the opening ceremony of a national conference under the theme of "Creating legal environments for pasture usage and protection." "Now, Mongolia has around 66.5 million of livestock animals which exceeded the carrying capacity of pastureland in the country by 41.2 percent," Zandanshatar said. As of the end of 2018, agriculture land accounted for 73.8 percent of the country's total land area, according to the parliament speaker. "Around 90 percent of the agriculture land in the country has been used for pastoral pursuits. Nearly 57 percent of the pastureland has been degraded in certain extent by a combination of climate change and mining," he said, noting that relevant agencies of the country need pay special attention to prevent further pasture degradation. A total of 850 people, including members of the Mongolian parliament and government as well as officials and herders from all 21 provinces of the country attended the conference to explore ways to protect pasture, rehabilitate degraded pastures and adjust the number of animals to the existing pasture carrying capacity. The formation of Chinese and Thai naval ships sails in waters against the wind and waves on May 7, 2019. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Hu Shanmin) ZHANJIANG, May 8 (ChinaMil) -- Chinese and Thai naval ships participating in the China-Thai joint naval drill, code-named Blue Commando-2019, embarked on the nighttime ocean encounter training after successfully completing communication exercises, formation replenishment-at-sea and sea area control and target recognition for maritime awareness on Monday evening. Serious enemy threat detected in our sailing area. Get ready to fight immediately! The formation command post sent an order to the ships at around 8 p.m. All ships immediately sounded the combat alarm and officers and soldiers quickly arrived at their posts, entering combat state. In the complex situation where the battlefield environment is unknown, the most crucial thing in the maritime encounter is preemptive detection and firing in the shortest time possible, said Lyu Yongjun, captain of the Chinese landing platform dock (LPD) vessel Wuzhishan (Hull 987). This drill was organized by the Thai side. The commander of the Thai participating forces at the joint command post quickly organized the ships to form a defensive formation to strictly guard the sea area. The radar antenna was rotating at a high speed, and the instructions in the command post are quickly transmitted, emerging a strong combat atmosphere everywhere. The formation attacked the harassing mock enemy after the target was identified. The joint training process adopted a high-intensity encounter mode. In the continuous training lasting for more than 10 hours, the command post released the simulation target according to contingency scenario. There is no predetermined plan, and the ships have to independently judge the mock enemy and jointly fight against it. The training has improved the joint operational capabilities of the Chinese and Thai navies. Li Xiaocheng, the Chinese chief of staff of the joint command center, said that although it is the first time for China and Thailand to organize a joint maritime encounter drill and there are many practical difficulties, the two sides cooperated very well thanks to the complete operation scheme and tactical table-top development. The Chinese and Thai participating ships also organized formation training in a certain sea area on Tuesday morning. The Chinese landing platform dock (LPD) vessel Wuzhishan (Hull 987), guided-missile frigates Yueyang (Hull 575) and Guangyuan (Hull 552) and a submarine sail in formation with the Thai Navy frigates HTMS Naresuan (FFG 421) and Bangpakong (FFG-456), and constantly changed formations in waves. According to Lyu, the participating ships have changed between single column formation, line abreast formation and double column formation. Each type of formation corresponds to a set of tactical actions and both parties must act strictly within the predetermined plan to ensure uniform and order, added Lyu. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 14:16:56|Editor: Xiaoxia Video Player Close HANOI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Border guard forces of Vietnam's northern Nam Dinh province have arrested two Vietnamese men for illegally transporting 10 cakes of heroin. The duo aged 34 and 38 from northern Thanh Hoa province and central Nghe An province, respectively, were caught red-handed trafficking the drug in Nam Dinh's Giao Thuy district on Monday, local newspaper Hai Quan (Customs) reported on Wednesday. The duo confessed that they had been asked by a Lao man to carry the drug from Thanh Hoa to Nam Dinh for distribution. According to the Vietnamese law, those convicted of smuggling over 600 grams of heroin or more than 2.5 kg of methamphetamine are punishable by death. Making or trading 100 grams of heroin or 300 grams of other illegal drugs also faces death penalty. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 14:57:14|Editor: Li Xia Video Player Close SHIJIAZHUANG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- As China pushes ahead with its poverty relief campaign, more fresh and young faces of the post-90s generation are edging their way to the center stage. "I was inexperienced when I first settled in the town, but years of work experience at the local poverty relief office has made me an 'old auntie' among the younger recruits," said Zhang Qiuhua, 25, who joined the office after graduating from college in 2016. GREENER PATH TO WEALTH Last year, Zhang was promoted to the head of the poverty relief office in Yongyang Township, Laishui County in northern China's Hebei Province where poverty alleviation has remained one of the province's key tasks for years. A total of 648,000 people have shaken off poverty in 2018 in Hebei, and the province plans to lift all of its counties out of poverty this year, Zhang said. "Confidence is high among the young leaders and colleagues on the front line of the poverty relief campaign," Zhang added. As an agriculture major, Zhang began field research among the impoverished areas of Yongyang Township, hoping to seek a greener way to help villagers shake off poverty. Last year, about 117 hectares of mulberry trees were planted in two pilot villages of the region to create an industrial chain of related deep processing products thanks to Zhang's coordination and efforts. EDUCATION MAKES A DIFFERENCE As one of 10 most impoverished counties in Hebei, Yangyuan County in the city of Zhangjiakou has received a growing number of post-90s college graduates over the years. Han Tinggeng joined the young cadres team in March 2018 at 28 years old. Han, a graduate from Peking University, one of China's most prestigious universities, believes education is the passport to the future, and students should develop a passion for learning. Han said he has never regretted the decision of turning down several decent job opportunities in Beijing after graduation. "Young people have the power to change the world. I'm young enough, so I would like to lend a hand to younger students struggling to shake off poverty while growing up," said Han. Han has helped a primary school with many left-behind children improve its English curriculum and teaching since last April. By the end of the following semester, students at the school were ranked the highest in town in their English performance. China aims to eradicate deep poverty by 2020, and as the deadline approaches, more post-90s graduates, mostly scattered in poverty-stricken regions in central and western China, are becoming capable officials to guide poverty relief work. "We are honored and determined to contribute our own efforts and ideas to China's anti-poverty drive, the largest such campaign in human history," said Han. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:07:18|Editor: ZX Video Player Close KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese tourists who have been the key growth driver across Southeast Asia over the past decade, will continue to support Malaysian tourism growth, says an Malaysian research house. Maybank Kim Eng said in a report Wednesday that it expects more Chinese to visit Malaysia. As Chinese visitors spend more than any other major source of visitors, the research house believes more inbound Chinese visitors this year will moderate the adverse impact of fewer Singaporean visitors on Malaysian tourism industry. Although Malaysias overall tourist arrivals dipped 0.4 percent year-on-year to 25.83 million last year, Chinese inbound tourists surged 29 percent to 2.94 million. While Malaysias tourism receipts rose 2.44 percent year-on-year to 84.1 billion ringgit (20.3 billion U.S. dollars), Chinese tourist expenditure surged 35.9 percent to 12.3 billion ringgit. The improving tourism receipts is partially due to more Chinese visitors to Malaysia, said Maybank Kim Eng, adding that average Chinese visitor to Malaysia spends 4,200 ringgit last year, more than any other major sources of visitors. The research house also sees room for growth as average Chinese visitor to Thailand spends 65 percent more than they spend in Malaysia. The report also noted that China is currently the worlds top tourism spender, spending more than the United States and Germany combined. Chinese visitors spend a lot more than others, and their per capita average tourism receipts are growing, it said. Chinese tourists have been the key growth driver across Southeast Asia over the past decade, with Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore become the most popular destinations for China tourists. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:07:20|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SEOUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South Korean Unification Minister Kim Yeon-chul on Wednesday visited the liaison office with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in the DPRK's border town of Kaesong in his first trip across the border to the inter-Korean office since he took the post last month. Kim crossed the military demarcation line (MDL), which divides the Korean Peninsula, into the DPRK territory on the western land route to Kaesong at about 8:30 a.m. local time (2330 GMT Tuesday), according to the joint press corps reports. Kim returned back to the South Korean soil at around 1 p.m. local time. During the visit, Kim met briefly with DPRK officials at the liaison office that was opened in September last year for the round-the-clock communications between the two Koreas. After returning home, the top South Korean policymaker in charge of inter-Korean affairs told reporters that he told DPRK officials to normalize the operation of the liaison office by steadily implementing the inter-Korean agreements. The DPRK side told Kim that it had an unwavering willingness to enforce the inter-Korean declarations. South Korean President Moon Jae-in and top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un signed two agreements after their first and third summits in the border village of Panmunjom last April and in the DPRK's capital of Pyongyang last September each. The Kaesong liaison office has not been in normal operations since the second summit between the DPRK leader and U.S. President Donald Trump ended with no agreement in late February at the Vietnamese capital of Hanoi. Asked about the South Korean food aid plan to the DPRK, the unification minister told reporters that he will convene an internal meeting to review concrete measures. After comprehensively reviewing it, the ministry will announce detailed food aid plans in the foreseeable future, the minister added. His remark came after Trump expressed support for South Korea's food aid plan for the DPRK during his phone talks with Moon Tuesday night (Korean time). Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:12:24|Editor: ZX Video Player Close XIAMEN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jieyi, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, met with Wang Jin-pyng, honorary chairman of the Wang family association in Taiwan on Wednesday, who was visiting Fujian to pay respects to his ancestors. Stressing that compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait shared the same roots, spoke the same language and belonged to the same family, Liu called on Chinese across the Strait to shoulder the great responsibility of the nation, follow the trend of history, adhere to 1992 Consensus and resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence." "People across the Strait should jointly contribute to the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, the peaceful reunification of the motherland and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," Liu said. Wang said the 1992 Consensus had laid a solid foundation for peace and stability in cross-Strait relations, and "Taiwan independence" would not work. He also noted the common identity members of the Chinese nation shared with compatriots across the Strait, and called for joint efforts to improve cross-Strait relations and national prosperity. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:22:39|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SYDNEY, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Australian transport workers have picketed outside the offices of Uber in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane on Wednesday, to protest the global ride-share company Uber. Handing over a list of demands to the digital giant including better pay and working conditions, Tony Sheldon, Australia's Transport Workers' Union (TWU) co-ordinator on the on-demand economy said drivers around the world are getting "ripped off." "Uber and other ride-share companies must be regulated because they are wrecking livelihoods and wrecking our economies." "Uber has been allowed to insert itself into our communities with low paying work. It is clear that the business model is flawed." "Governments need to stand against this kind of insidious corporatism," he added. According to Sheldon, a survey of 1,100 ride-share drivers in Australia last October found the average pay is just 16 Australian dollars (11.23 U.S. dollars) per hour before fuel, well below the legally required national minimum wage of 18.93 Australian dollars (13.29 U.S. dollars) per hour. "This company demands that people invest in their vehicles so they take out loans, and yet at the whim of the company, without any explanation, literally you can turn up to work the following morning and find yourself deactivated," Sheldon said. With similar protests against Uber also taking place in the United States, Britain, France, Brazil, Nigeria and Chile, a spokesperson for the company said, "drivers are at the heart of our service." "We can't succeed without them and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road." The State of Victoria is currently undergoing an inquiry into the gig-economy and the on-demand workforce, with the findings expected to be outlaid at the end of 2019. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:27:44|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TEHRAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday in letters to five world leaders that Iran will scale back more compliance with a 2015 nuclear agreement in 60 days unless they keep promises with the deal, according to media reports. Rouhani said Iran will increase uranium enrichment level and get ready for talks with Europe on Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in which wide-ranging sanctions on the Iranian economy was lifted and Tehran in return agreed to accept limits on its nuclear technology program and allow inspections of its nuclear installations. Prior to the president's letters, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that Tehran has decided to stop implementing some of its commitments pursuant to the nuclear agreement, official IRNA news agency reported on Wednesday. The measures that Iran will adopt are enshrined by the Articles 26 and 36 of JCPOA, Zarif said upon arrival in Russian capital Moscow on Tuesday night. According to the articles, Iran or any other signatory of the deal is entitled to stop implementing parts or all of their commitments under the document in case any party fails to remain committed to its obligations, he said, adding that Iran is not leaving the JCPOA, and rather, it is acting totally within the framework of Articles 26 and 36 of the deal. "Unfortunately, the European Union and other members of the international community could not stand up to the U.S. pressures," he said, adding that Iran's move provides "an opportunity for other parties to the deal to take required measures, not just issue statements." Iran said earlier that it would announce a set of retaliatory measures on Wednesday in a response to the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal and re-imposition of sanctions against Tehran. U.S. President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the Iranian international nuclear deal in May 2018 and resumed energy and financial sanctions against the country. The Trump administration aims to push Iran to the negotiation table by exerting "maximum pressures." Washington seeks to seal a new nuclear deal with Iran, to further curb Iran's nuclear programs and its ballistic missile tests. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:32:48|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday held a forum on national defense intellectual property rights (IPR) in Beijing. The forum, the fifth of its kind, was themed on promoting high-quality development of the equipment construction and advancing the transfer and application of national defense IPR. Attendees conducted thorough exchanges on topics including the building of national defense IPR policy and legal systems, and the transfer and application of national defense IPR. The forum was jointly hosted by the National Defense Industry Press and the national defense IPR committee of the China Intellectual Property Society. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:53:03|Editor: ZX Video Player Close FUZHOU, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China's medical authority said Wednesday that 158 Internet hospitals had been built, as a lack of medical resources in the countryside and congestion in large urban hospitals are prompting the country to offer medical services online. Mao Qun'an, a director of the National Health Commission, said at the second Digital China Summit that 19 provinces, or over half of China's provincial-level regions, had established provincial telemedicine platforms. The central government has also earmarked 670 million yuan (99 million U.S. dollars) in special funds to add telemedical and other equipment in primary-level health institutions in impoverished counties. The commission is now working to realize online services in second and tertiary hospitals, he said. China's has a three-tier hospital grading system with the tertiary being the highest. Internet hospitals refer to those offering medical services, such as consultation and diagnosis, online. In particular, they are expected to help tackle the scarcity of medical equipment and practitioners in some parts of China. The three-day Digital China Summit, which concluded on Wednesday, highlights the latest information technologies that have swept through the country's government, industries and society. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:53:04|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LUSAKA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government on Tuesday called for more private sector investment in the development of biofuels. The government was encouraging private sectors' participation in the development of biofuels so the industry could grow, said the Minister of Energy Mathew Nkuwa, in remarks delivered during a policy consultative meeting on revising biofuels development. The Zambian minister said biofuels could be a good alternative source of energy for the country, especially during the current period when the country was suffering from effects of climate change. The government, he said, has made strides towards growing and diversifying the energy sector to serve the economic diversification agenda, and the government has so far established a pricing mechanism for bio-diesel. According to him, there was need to invest in additional facilities to enable the blend of biofuels and fossil fuel nationwide as the country's sole oil refinery has no capacity to do so. Professionals in Mission-Oriented Protective Posture (MOPP) gears check and confirm Japanese ACWs to be destroyed. On the morning of May 7,China and Japan jointly announced that the disposal of chemical weapons abandoned by Japan(ACWs) during the Second World War in Harbin, northeastern Chinas Heilongjiang Province, was officially started, and the first chemical artillery shell has been successfully destroyed. After Nanjing, Shijiazhuang and Wuhan, Harbin is the fourth disposal operation site in China, mainly responsible for the ACWs left in Heilongjiang Province. Handling Japanese ACWs is not only an integral part of efforts to solve major issues left by history, but also a key part of the efforts to implement the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). In 2007, leaders of the two countries reached consensus on destroying Japanese ACWs scattered in China with mobile disposal facilities. In accordance with CWC and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two governments, Japan is responsible for destruction operation and providing all necessary funds, technology, experts, facilities and other resources, while the Chinese side offers necessary assistance. The picture shows the disposal facilities for Japanese ACWs destruction in Harbin. The launch of the operation in Harbin is of great significance for eradicating Japanese ACWs that have severely plagued Heilongjiang Province. Since the preparation started in 2010, China and Japan have jointly completed the work of risk assessment, location selection, technical solution, and the collection and transportation of ACWs from surrounding areas. The destruction was jointly carried out by relevant military units and local departments under the joint organization of Chinas International Military Cooperation Office of the Central Military Commission (CMC) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the participation of chemical defense, ammunition, medical and logistic professionals from various units. Participants in MOPP gears decontaminate hazardous substances with pressure washing systems during an emergency decontamination exercise. The Chinese government urges the Japanese side to strictly fulfill its obligations under relevant international conventions and continue to invest more manpower, financial investment and other material resources to speed up the destruction progress of Japanese ACWs, so that people in the affected regions can enjoy peace and security as soon as possible. Chinese and Japanese participants jointly conduct emergency rescue exercise. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 15:58:08|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Pakistani security personnel stand guard at the blast site in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore on May 8, 2019. At least eight people, including five policemen, were killed and 25 others injured on Wednesday in the suicide attack on a police vehicle outside a Sufi shrine in Lahore, the provincial police chief said. (Xinhua/Sajjad) ISLAMABAD, May 8 (Xinhua) -- At least eight people, including five policemen, were killed and 25 others injured on Wednesday in a suicide attack on a police vehicle outside a Sufi shrine in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore, the provincial police chief said. Inspector General of Police of eastern Punjab province Arif Nawaz told media that a suicide bomber blew up his explosive-laden jacket near a vehicle of police commandoes outside the crowded Data Darbar shrine located in the downtown of Lahore, the provincial capital of Punjab. The police officer said that the vehicle came under the attack at 8:45 a.m. local time when it was on the site for the security of the shrine that receives thousands of visitors daily. Five police commandoes, two civilians and one private security guard are among the deceased, said the officer. Around seven kilograms of explosives were used in the vest by the bomber, said the officer, adding that a forensic team has collected evidence from the site and is working to know the identity of the bomber. Security has been beefed up in the city as police and Rangers, a paramilitary force, have launched a search operation. Law Minister of Punjab Raja Basharat told media that the government has ordered police to conduct geofencing to arrest the aids of the bombers. An official from the Mayo Hospital, where bodies and the injured were shifted, feared that the death toll might further rise as five of the injured are in critical condition. Majority of the victims received wounds caused by shrapnel during the blast, the hospital official added. Local administration of the city has closed the shrine for the public for an unlimited time. It is the second terrorist attack at the shrine since the past decade. In July 2010, two suicide bombers attacked the shrine simultaneously, killing 50 people and leaving over 200 others injured. Pakistani President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan have condemned the attack and asked the authorities concerned to provide the best available treatment to the wounded. Imran Khan has reportedly also called a high-level meeting to analyze the current security situation and arrangements made by the security departments. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:18:24|Editor: ZX Video Player Close CHONGQING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Twenty-five containers of trucks on freight trains departed southwest China's Chongqing Municipality Wednesday and headed for the Philippines. The shipment marks the start of regular freight service for finished vehicles on the land-sea freight route, part of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a trade and logistics passage jointly built by western Chinese provincial regions and Singapore under the framework of the China-Singapore (Chongqing) Demonstration Initiative on Strategic Connectivity. The shipment of China-made trucks is scheduled to arrive at the Beibu Gulf in Guangxi, where it will transfer by sea. The whole journey takes around 10 days, about 30 fewer than river-sea transport. Export of finished cars will be a regular service at the Tuanjiecun Station in Chongqing to meet individual demands of domestic and overseas clients, said Zhang Ding, deputy director of the station. By the end of March, the land-sea freight route had seen 915 trips, transporting 440 million U.S. dollars worth of auto parts, construction materials, porcelain, chemical products, grains and frozen goods. It links 166 ports in 71 countries and regions worldwide. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:18:26|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close MANILA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines' total merchandise trade grew by 3.5 percent to 14.89 billion U.S. dollars in March 2019 from 14.39 billion U.S. dollars in March 2018, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Wednesday. Of the total external trade, the PSA said 5.88 billion U.S. dollars or 39.5 percent were exported goods and 9.01 billion U.S. dollars or 60.5 percent were imported goods. Furthermore, the PSA said the country's balance of trade in goods (BoT-G) increased to a 3.14 billion U.S. dollars deficit in March 2019, from 2.34 billion U.S. dollars deficit in March 2018. "This is the fourth month of decline in export receipts, dragged by a dip in sales of electronics and petroleum products," the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said. The NEDA urged local producers to continue to diversify products and earnestly look for new markets, especially abroad, to ratchet up Philippine exports. "To drive up exports, we are encouraging exporters to continue to diversify products to expand their markets," Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said. Pernia said that in terms of exports to major trading partners in March, receipts from ASEAN countries grew by 2.7 percent, supported by stronger out-turns in shipments to Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. On the other hand, he said exports to East Asia, the United States, and the EU declined by 0.4 percent, 3.1 percent, and 17.2 percent, respectively. "To put the Philippines in a more competitive stance, it is crucial to open up domestic sectors to foreign participation through the proposed amendments to the Foreign Investment Act, Retail Trade Act, and Public Services Act," Pernia said. "This will help attract multinational firms to invest and set up their manufacturing operations in the country," he said, adding that the resulting expanded local production would help cater to the needs of both domestic and external markets. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:23:32|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KABUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Several people were either killed or injured after a big explosion and ensuing gunfire rocked an aid agency in the central part of Afghanistan's capital of Kabul, causing panic among residents on Wednesday, the government said. "The blast occurred outside an aid agency in Police District 10. The Crisis Response Unit (CRU) has arrived at the site and is battling with the terrorists at the site," Afghan Ministry of Interior Affairs said in a statement. Further details will be released later in the day, the statement added. "We heard a huge blast in Shahr-e-Naw locality roughly at 11:40 a.m. local time. The whole place has now been sealed off by CRU or elite police forces," eye-witness Aman Karimi told Xinhua earlier. The incident caused casualties and destruction in the business district where scores of offices and shops are located. The blast caused a plume of grey smoke to rise above the scene, he said. Rescue teams, police and security forces rushed to the area, waiting for access to the site of the attack. No group has claimed the incident so far. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:23:35|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close BERLIN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A train collided with a semitrailer near the northern German city of Rendsburg on Wednesday, injuring some 20 people. The incident occurred at a level crossing in the town of Alt Duvenstedt. It was not immediately clear why the truck was on the track. The train was partially derailed and the truck driver had fled before the collision, according to a statement by the federal police. Some 20 people were injured and among them three were in serious condition. A helicopter was dispatched to transfer one of the injured to hospital, according to the statement. A large batch of rescue workers were on site to repair the damaged overhead lines. Regional traffic was heavily affected by the accident and replacement buses were dispatched to carry the train passengers. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:28:37|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LILONGWE, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A British soldier, Matthew Talbot, was killed during counter-poaching operations in southern Malawi's Liwonde National Park, the British High Commission to Malawi confirmed Tuesday. Talbot, killed on Sunday, was one of the British troops working alongside Malawian park rangers in a counter-poaching capacity building program. According to a press statement by British Ministry of Defense, the program is designed to help save some of the most iconic species from extinction due to illegal wildlife trade. British Defense Secretary Penny Mordaunt said in the statement that "I was saddened to hear of the death of Guardsman Matthew Talbot who died while carrying out vital counter-poaching work in Malawi." "This tragic incident is a reminder of the danger our military faces as they protect some of the world's most endangered species from those who seek to profit from the criminal slaughter of wildlife," it added. Liwonde National Park, about 113 km northeast of Malawi's commercial city of Blantyre, is one of the Malawi government wildlife conservation areas managed by African Parks, a non-profit conservation organization, in Malawi. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:33:41|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LASHKAR GAH, Afghanistan, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Afghan security forces launched a cleanup operation, leaving five Taliban militants including a divisional commander dead, in the country's southern province of Helmand, the military said Wednesday. Afghan commandoes launched the operation late Tuesday night, killing five militants and seizing heavy and light arms and ammunition in a vicinity of Musa Qala district of Helmand, Afghan National Army Special Operations Corps said in a statement. One computer and two communication devices, as well as 50 kg of poppy opium, have also been seized by security forces during the mop-up, the statement said. Helmand, notorious for poppy growing, is also a known Taliban stronghold. The Taliban militant group hasn't made comments on the report yet. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:33:43|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close WINDHOEK, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Namibian Minister of Mines and Energy has encouraged the mining industries in his country to invest in value addition as well as making sure Namibian accrue benefits from their operations. Speaking Wednesday at a mining conference, the minister Tom Alweendo said mining is a risky business that needs his country to take full advantage of its resources for development, especially in infrastucture. He also called for the extractive industry to invest in the country's education sector to develop a better skills base because "mining resources can easily deplete." Alweendo said Namibia is going to continue developing investor favorable legislation that allows it to accrue benefits from its mining resources while allowing profitability for investors. "Mining is by far the biggest contributor to our economy, contributing 14 percent to GDP ... Our citizens are keen to know how they benefit from their resources. We need to look at the ownership, value addition and the fact that mining relies on external forces before moving on ways to tap benefits from our mining industry," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:33:45|Editor: ZX Video Player Close KUNMING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Police in the county of Maguan, southwest China's Yunnan Province, have arrested four suspects for smuggling 13 water buffalos, according to local police. The police caught a suspect and intercepted seven smuggled water buffalos in a van during a routine check at around 7 p.m. on Saturday. A further three suspects and six water buffalos were found during a check Sunday. The suspects confessed that the buffalos were smuggled into China from Vietnam. The two cases are under investigation. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:38:47|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close SAN FRANCISCO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Google on Tuesday debuted its next-generation Google Assistant, touting "milestone" features that empower mobile devices with new speech recognition and language understanding capabilities. The new Google Assistant is leveraging the full computing power of its data centers to support speech transcription and language understanding models and made it light enough to run on a phone, Google revealed at its I/O 2019 developers conference Tuesday. The artificial intelligence technology that drives the Assistant can now run locally on mobile devices, which processes speech on-device at nearly zero latency, with transcription that happens in real-time, even without going online, Google said. With this new feature, the Assistant can deliver answers up to 10 times faster than its current iteration, according to Google. The Assistant can also multi-task across apps such as creating a calendar invite, and allowing users to find and share a photo with friends or dictate an email at a faster than ever before speed, Google said. The tech giant based in Mountain View, California disclosed that the Assistant has been installed on over 1 billion devices, available in over 30 languages across 80 countries, and adopted by more than 3,500 brands across the globe. Google said the new-generation Assistant will become available first on its new Pixel phones, which are set to be released later this year. RTHK: Don't trust Huawei, Pompeo tells Britain US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Britain on Wednesday that allowing China a role in its 5G network risked undermining the historic allies' intelligence sharing, during a visit to London that also highlighted their differences on Iran. Following talks with Prime Minister Theresa May and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Pompeo also condemned "disgusting" politicians who backed Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro, and urged European nations to take back captured Islamic State group fighters. In both a joint press conference with Hunt and a later speech, US President Donald Trump's top diplomat delivered a blunt message over the importance of secure 5G networks. "Insufficient security will impede the United States' ability to share certain information within trusted networks," Pompeo told an audience including British MPs at Lancaster House in London. "This is just what China wants -- to divide Western alliances through bits and bytes, not bullets and bombs." The US has banned government agencies from buying equipment from Chinese firm Huawei over fears Beijing could spy on communications and gain access to critical infrastructure. A leak from Britain's National Security Council last month suggested the government in London is planning a limited role for Huawei in its 5G network. But Hunt insisted no decision had been taken, adding that Britain would "never take a decision that compromised our ability to share intelligence" with its close allies. Pompeo urged the country to be "vigilant and vocal against a host of Chinese activities", adding its government can demand access to data flowing through Huawei's systems "as a matter of Chinese law". In remarks highly critical of China, he called the Belt and Road Initiative -- its signature global infrastructure project -- the country peddling "corrupt infrastructure deals in exchange for political influence". Delivering the annual Margaret Thatcher lecture at the Centre for Policy Studies think-tank, Pompeo sought to channel the famously Atlanticist former British prime minister in railing against China's international agenda. "Would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion?" he said. Their talks also covered Iran, which said Wednesday it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a 2015 deal with major powers until they find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions. The US pulled out of the deal last year, but other signatories, including Britain, have tried to save the agreement with a trade mechanism meant to bypass reimposed US sanctions. Pompeo said Tehran's announcement was "intentionally ambiguous" and Washington would wait and see what actions it took. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. The European Union-backed International Contact Group on Venezuela said on Tuesday it could send a political mission to Caracas to pursue a solution to the country's ongoing crisis, reiterating its call for fresh elections. Speaking after a third meeting of the group in the Costa Rican capital San Jose, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said there should be no military intervention in Venezuela and urged all sides to avoid escalating tensions. "The only way to unblock a stalemate -- in which the country clearly is -- is to find a democratic, peaceful political way forward that can be inclusive and that can respect the will of the Venezuelan people," Mogherini told a news conference. A stand-off between Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition intensified in January when Juan Guaido, leader of the National Assembly, invoked Venezuela's constitution to assume the interim presidency, arguing that Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:43:53|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close South African President Cyril Ramaphosa (C) is seen at a polling station in Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 8, 2019. South Africans are flocking to about 23,000 voting stations across the nation on Wednesday to cast ballots that will determine which party is to rule the country in the next five years. (Xinhua/Chen Cheng) JOHANNESBURG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South Africans across the nation are queuing up on early Wednesday morning to cast ballots that will determine which party is to rule the country in the next five years. At a voting station in Crawford College in Northern Johannesburg, many people arrived early to make their mark and have their say. At 7:50 a.m. local time (0550 GMT), 50 minutes after the official opening time, there have already been hundreds of people queuing up. Voters said it only took 10 minutes to vote, and the whole process was quick and efficient. However, not all voting stations across the nation opened on time, according to the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC). Up till 8 o'clock in the morning, 10 percent of the 22,924 voting stations remained closed, the IEC said. The election, the country's sixth general election since the first such by the nation in 1994, has attracted 26.7 million registered voters. A poll by the Institute of Race Relations has shown that among the 76 parties running for the election, the current ruling party the African National Congress will receive about 53 percent of the vote nationally, being the first choice for most voters. The final results of the election will be pronounced Saturday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 16:59:08|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ULAN BATOR, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A total of 48 forest and steppe fires have been recorded across Mongolia so far this year, the country's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) said Wednesday, noting that the wildfires have burned 239,200 hectares of land. The NEMA noted that discarded cigarettes and open fires were the main causes of the wildfires, warning citizens not to make open fires and not to throw cigarette butts on the ground amid current dry conditions. To prevent forest and steppe fires, the country has imposed a ban on backcountry travel, hiking and other travel or recreational activities in areas covered with forests until June 10. A total of 77 forest and steppe fires were recorded across the country last year, burning 568,600 hectares of land, according to the NEMA. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:04:10|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close AMMAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Jordan's Prime Minister Omar Razzaz on Wednesday asked ministers to resign in preparation for a cabinet reshuffle, the state-run Petra news agency reported. The premier said the reshuffle is expected in the next few days. The reshuffle is to deal with the upcoming stage that requires more efforts to overcome challenges and achieve government's priorities, Razzaz said. In January, King Abdullah II of Jordan approved a limited cabinet reshuffle in the government of Prime Minister Omar Razzaz. It was the second cabinet reshuffle in the government of Prime Minister Omar Razzaz as in October last year a royal decree was issued approving a reshuffle in Prime Minister Omar Razzaz's government. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:09:18|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close FUZHOU, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Guangdong Province, an economic powerhouse in southern China, ranks top among China's provincial governments for online services, said a report released by the Party School of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee on Wednesday. Jiangsu and Zhejiang, two coastal provinces in eastern China, claim the second and third places in the rating, while Shenzhen, a tech hub in Guangdong, leads the city listing. The report, issued at the second Digital China Summit in Fujian Province, include 31 provincial-level regions, 32 key cities and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. According to Wang Yimin, director of the e-government research center of the top party school, the ranking was based on 1.62 million pieces of user experience feedback and questionnaires, taking into account factors such as the availability of services and transparency. The report shows that 30 provincial-level regions have established integrated e-government platforms that incorporate the services of provincial, city and county governments. In 2018, the number of real-name users on provincial e-government platforms reached 145 million, marking an increase of 38 million over the previous year, according to the report. The second Digital China Summit, which concluded Wednesday, serves as a platform for issuing China's policies on IT development and displaying the achievements and experience of e-government and the digital economy. One of the major highlights at this year's summit is the many e-government apps, which are part of the Chinese government's efforts to cut red tape to benefit residents and businesses alike. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:09:23|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close VIENTIANE, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Electricity generation is set to take a leading role in supplying Laos with foreign exchange in the coming years, according to data from the Lao central bank. The Bank of the Lao People's Democratic Republic released its latest annual economic report recently, providing data that reflect changes in the contributors of foreign exchange, local daily Vientiane Times reported on Wednesday. According to the report, electricity generation will likely become the main provider of foreign exchange in the foreseeable future thanks to the industry's rising export value. In 2014, the sale of electricity to other countries amounted to only 570 million U.S. dollars. This figure surged to about 1 billion U.S. dollars in 2016, rising further to 1.2 billion U.S. dollars in 2017. In 2018, the Lao central bank initially projected the export value of electricity would reach 1.3 billion U.S. dollars, according to the report. A number of electricity generation projects have begun commercial operation over the past year. More hydropower projects are currently under construction and are expected to export electricity in the near future. The export of mineral products, gold and copper continues to maintain the top position among foreign exchange earners for Laos. However, the income earned from the export of these commodities has remained stable in recent years. In 2014, mineral exports were valued at 1.2 billion U.S. dollars, rising to about 1.4 billion U.S. dollars in 2017 and 2018. Copper exports were worth about 1 billion U.S. dollars in 2014, rising to 1.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2017. The Lao government is aware that the export value of mining products plays a significant role in contributing foreign currency to the economy, but it is recognized that these commodities will in time be depleted when the country's mineral deposits are exhausted, the report said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:19:37|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close People visit the 2019 World Ports Conference in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province, May 8, 2019. The conference, organized by the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), will see over 1,000 representatives from more than 50 countries. (Xinhua/Deng Hua) GUANGZHOU, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The 2019 World Ports Conference opened Wednesday in Guangzhou, capital of southern China's Guangdong Province, as port industry leaders gather to discuss common challenges and opportunities. The conference, organized by the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), will see over 1,000 representatives from more than 50 countries. The participants will discuss new opportunities brought by China's Belt and Road Initiative, the new challenges brought by new technologies to the industry and the sustainable development of ports, according to the IAPH. China has seven of the world's top 10 ports for both cargo and containers in terms of throughput and ranks first in the world in terms of the scale of the port. The IAPH has about 300 members from nearly 90 countries and regions. The members contribute to 60 percent of the world's total seaborne trade and 80 percent of seaborne container traffic. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:24:56|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China's foreign trade saw steady development and structure improvement in the first four months of this year as the sector seeks high-quality growth. The country's foreign trade of goods climbed 4.3 percent year on year during this period to 9.51 trillion yuan (about 1.41 trillion U.S. dollars), customs data showed Wednesday. Exports increased by 5.7 percent year on year to 5.06 trillion yuan during this period, while imports went up by 2.9 percent to 4.45 trillion yuan, the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said. Foreign trade maintained good momentum of steady growth in the Jan.-April period despite a complicated and grim external environment, and trade structure keeps improving, said Li Kuiwen, director of the GAC's statistics and analysis department. MOVING UP THE VALUE CHAIN April trade expanded by 6.5 percent to reach 2.51 trillion yuan. Exports grew by 3.1 percent in yuan terms last month, while imports jumped by 10.3 percent, 10 percentage points faster than growth in the first quarter, GAC data showed. Trade surplus stood at 93.57 billion yuan in April, shrinking by 43.8 percent year on year. General trade grew faster than processing trade during the Jan.-April period, which also saw an increasing share in China's total trade volume. Exports of some mechanical and electrical products with relatively high value-added, such as solar cells and medical devices, maintained robust growth. Imports of planes and aquatic products climbed by 19.5 percent and 46.1 percent year on year respectively in the first four months. TAPPING THE EMERGING MARKETS The European Union was China's largest trading partner during this period, followed by the ASEAN, the United States and Japan. Trade with Belt and Road countries totaled 2.73 trillion yuan, up 9.1 percent year on year, more than doubling the overall pace. Chinese enterprises are also increasing their trade with emerging markets. Trade with the ASEAN, Latin America and Africa grew 9 percent, 15.1 percent and 8.9 percent respectively. Over 50 freight trains loaded with cars, home appliances and other high-value-added products have been shipped to Russia, Central Asia and other regions from Shandong Province's capital city Jinan so far this year, according to Geng Lei, general manager of the local logistics company which runs the freight trains. "The first quarter of this year saw 38 such freight trains, already surpassing the total of last year. The growth momentum is gathered more markedly in April, as almost one freight train is shipped each day," Geng said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:35:05|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close SAN FRANCISCO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Google said Tuesday that it is taking new steps to allow users to have greater control of their Chrome browser to enhance protection of their privacy. "Our experience shows that people prefer ads that are personalized to their needs and interests," Google Engineering Vice President Prabhakar Raghavan said at the annual developer conference Google I/O held at the company's headquarters in Mountain View, Northern California, which is expected to draw more than 7,000 participants. New improvement will be made to cookies control in Chrome to better protect user privacy and choice on the web by making it easier to block or clear cookies used in a third-party context, with minimal disruption to cookies used in a first-party context, said Raghavan. Google will limit advertisers from undue tracking of users' browsing activities online and require ads to offer transparency, choice and control, he said. "Ad-supported Internet is at risk if digital advertising practices don't evolve to reflect people's changing expectations around how data is collected and used," he said. Chrome will more aggressively restrict fingerprinting across the web and give greater freedom to users to decide how to control the use of their data for personalized advertising, he said. Google said it is committing to a new level of ads transparency with a new open-source browser extension, which will display for users information about different intermediaries involved in targeting a given Google ad, such as those between the advertiser and publisher. It promises to find additional ways to make it even easier for users to access such information in the future. "All of the changes ... represent an important step in ensuring that the ad-supported web provides people with access to high-quality content, while protecting their privacy," Raghavan said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:45:13|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo paid an unannounced lightning visit to Iraq on Tuesday in the wake of U.S. accusations of a "credible threat" by Iran in the region, which has lead to the deployment of a U.S. aircraft carrier group and bombers to the Middle East. Pompeo on Tuesday told the traveling press during his flight to Baghdad that he paid the sudden visit to Iraq because of "information that indicates that Iran is escalating their activity." Citing three senior U.S. officials, The New York Times reported on Monday that intelligence indicated that U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria might be under "threat" by Iran. Washington claimed it made the decision of sending Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier group to the region on the above reason. U.S. television network CNN cited two U.S. officials as saying "the very public statements are aimed at deterring Iran," though "there is no indication any action by Iran is imminent." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif dismissed such accusations. In a tweet posted on Tuesday, Zarif noted that the United States and some of its regional allies have been spreading false accusations of "Iranian threats." In a White House statement on Sunday, U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton announced that the deployment of aircraft carrier group and bombers aimed "to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force." The accusations against Iran and the U.S. military deployment is the latest in its "maximum pressure" strategy against Iran. Observers said the recent move, which comes a full year after the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 Iranian international nuclear deal and re-imposition of sanctions against Tehran, is exerting military pressure alongside long-standing pressure on the economy and diplomatic relations. Tehran has been taking a hard-line stance and urging national unity and solidarity in the face of resolute U.S. threats. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in letters to five world leaders on Wednesday that Iran will scale back its commitments to the nuclear deal in 60 days, according to media reports. Rouhani also said Iran will increase its uranium enrichment level and is ready for talks with Europe on the nuclear deal, namely the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Analysts are concerned the escalating tension could trigger a military conflict. "It is time now for cooler heads to prevail and for both sides to back away from the precipice toward which they are moving," Richard Clarke, who served for thirty years in U.S. government national security agencies, wrote in an article in the New York Daily News. Colin Kahl, a professor at Stanford University, warned in his piece for Foreign Policy that America's Iran policy is becoming dangerous, and there is growing evidence Washington is on a path toward war. "Before matters spin out of control, it would be wise for the administration to dial back the rhetoric, open high-level channels with Tehran, and signal a willingness to reenter the nuclear deal as a starting point for new negotiations," said Kahl. Since U.S. President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the JCPOA last May, Washington has returned a series of energy and financial sanctions against the Islamic republic, despite sanction waivers for some major oil buyers. However, in a bid to pile up pressure on Iran, Washington announced in April that it would not re-issue sanction waivers for major importers to continue buying Iran's oil when they expire in early May. Despite mounting U.S. pressure, the European Union last week reiterated its support for the JCPOA. To weather off U.S. sanction pressures, Iran's oil trading partners in Europe have been pinning their hopes on the implementation of an EU-designed payment channel. Middle East countries such as Qatar and Turkey also oppose unilateral U.S. sanctions, with Turkey seeking a bartering system to pass through the sanctions to continue trade with Iran. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 17:55:20|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Afghan security personnel stand guard near the explosion site in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 8, 2019. At least one assailant was killed and nine people were injured after a Taliban suicide car bomb explosion rocked outside an aid agency in the central part of Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Wednesday, the government said. (Xinhua/Rahmat Alizadah) KABUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- At least one assailant was killed and nine people were injured after a Taliban suicide car bomb explosion rocked outside an aid agency in the central part of Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Wednesday, the government said. "As a result of today's explosion in Shahr-e-Naw locality of Kabul city, nine wounded patients were evacuated to our hospitals so far," Wahidullah Mayar, spokesman of Afghan Ministry of Public Health, tweeted. The obvious target of the attack that occurred at midday was Counterpart International, a U.S. aid agency, local media reported. The security forces also recovered a car bomb near the site and bomb disposal teams were working to defuse or detonate it, according to Tolo News TV. More than 150 people were evacuated from the targeted building and surrounding offices and houses. A search operation by elite police forces was underway at the site and surrounding area as it was suspected that several Taliban gunmen penetrated the buildings. The blast also damaged several buildings and cars in the business district. The Taliban militant group has claimed responsibility for the incident. The United States military says it will dispatch a military hospital ship to the Venezuelan region, the latest sign of greater U.S. involvement in the crisis gripping the South American country. A Pentagon official told VOA the USNS Comfort hospital ship "will deploy to South American waters in the coming weeks." The official said the Comfort will be on a "standard deployment that will include care for Venezuelan refugees." U.S. officials have said recently they are considering military options in Venezuela, as the U.S. intensifies diplomatic and economic pressure on the oil-rich country. The U.S. has recognized National Assembly and opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuelas interim president and has called on President Nicolas Maduro to resign. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 18:05:31|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- About 18 million square meters of school buildings are under construction to expand higher vocational education, and an additional 30 million square meters of buildings are needed in the next two years, said the Ministry of Education Wednesday. The State Council approved a plan in late April to expand the enrollment of higher vocational colleges by 1 million this year, and every student should have 24 square meters of floor space on average according to the requirements of the Ministry. "We will work with the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Finance to earmark special funds for expansion of school facilities," said Lou Xuqing, an inspector at the Ministry of Education. There are 9.7 million students in 1,418 higher vocational colleges in China now, he said, adding that the country plans to add 121 new higher vocational colleges during the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-2020), and about half of the colleges have been registered. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 18:15:37|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close JINAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A special kind of watermelon, despite its high price, is being harvested and sent to customers who cannot wait to have a taste of summer. "This is the first batch of watermelons we have harvested this year, and we have always had a high demand although the price might be dozens of times the normal price," said You Shouchang, general manager of Guo's watermelon company in the city of Weifang in east China's Shandong Province. Aimed at the high-end market, the watermelon tastes good, with a sugar content scaled at 14, while normally the sugar content of watermelons reaches as high as 10. "Not only can you find sweetness inside the watermelon, but also science and technology," You said. In the company's greenhouses, every fruit is numbered so that its whole growth process can be traced. The amount of light, water, flow of air and fertilizers are also strict under control. Unlike the traditional way that watermelons grow on land, all the fruits in the company's greenhouses are suspended in the air so that they can get 360 degrees of light. "This method helps us increase both the quality and quantity of our watermelons," said Yang Meng, who is in charge of watermelon production at the company. Guo's watermelon company was established in the 1980s, when Guo Hongze, You's father-in-law, started to grow watermelons in greenhouses. Since then, the company's products have always had a touch of high-tech. With people in China attaching more importance to the quality of agricultural products in recent years, Guo's watermelons have won consumer hearts with its good quality and taste. "The practice these years has proved that people are willing to buy our watermelons although the price is higher. They pay more attention to the quality," You said. As the son-in-law of Guo Hongze, You Shouchang has inherited the company's tradition of applying technology in farming. In 2018, he built a new base for developing watermelons that better suit the consumer demand, with an investment of 114 million yuan (about 16.84 million U.S. dollars). "Our country encourages high-quality growth, and using high-tech to develop the quality of products when it comes to agriculture," You said. "We are glad to do our part." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 18:35:45|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LONDON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Accountancy giant KPMG was fined 5 million pounds (about 6.5 million U.S. dollars) over an audit misconduct of Co-operative Bank in 2009, revealed a statement issued Wednesday by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC), an independent British regulator for auditors, accountants and actuaries. The regulator said that KPMG was fined 5 million pounds, discounted for a settlement to 4 million pounds (5.2 million dollars), and was reprimanded. Meanwhile, KPMG's audit partner Andrew Walker was also fined 125,000 pounds (163,000 dollars), discounted for a settlement to 100,000 pounds and was reprimanded. The regulator stated that the misconduct took place in 2009 shortly after the Co-operative Bank's merger with the Britannia Building Society, a mutual building society in Britain. KPMG and Andrew Walker both admitted that their conduct was significantly short of the standards in two area, which included "failures to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence; failures to exercise sufficient professional skepticism and a failure to inform Co-op Bank that the disclosure of the expected lives of the Leek Notes in the financial statements was not adequate," the regulator said. In addition, "all KPMG's audit engagements with credit institutions for audits with 2019, 2020 and 2021 year ends will be subjected to an additional review by a separate KPMG Audit Quality team, who will provide reports to the FRC," it added. KPMG will also pay 500,000 pounds (650,000 dollars) for the FRC's costs. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 18:45:47|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China will provide centralized support to build a team of vocational college teachers, an official with the Ministry of Education (MOE) said Wednesday. China plans to expand vocational college enrollment by 1 million this year to cultivate the talent of various professional skills to boost employment. "Teachers are important for the expansion of enrollment," said Wang Jiping, director of the MOE department of vocational and adult education. As estimated by the department of teacher education, about 65,000 new teachers have to be increased annually after vocational education enrolls a million more students, Wang added. Approaches to increase teachers include training, cooperation with enterprises and hiring retired teachers, Wang said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 18:45:49|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BRUSSELS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Huawei, the Chinese technology giant, has purchased a plot in Cambridge, Britain, where it plans to build an R&D centre and produce optical semiconductors. "Recently, Huawei has invested in a substantial site in Cambridge, UK. We are developing plans to create a new Research and Development Centre, including a small-scale manufacturing facility related to optical semiconductors," a company spokesperson based in Brussels told Xinhua in a statement on Wednesday. "We are working closely with the relevant authorities and local residents and will publish more detailed plans shortly," the spokesperson added. Last week, the Financial Times first reported the move, saying the facility, due to be operational by 2021, would create up to 400 jobs. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 19:00:54|Editor: ZX Video Player Close Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, speaks at a national conference on public security in Beijing, capital of China. The meeting was held in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has stressed the need to enhance the political loyalty of the police force, strengthen them through reform and technology, and run them with strict discipline, at a national conference on public security. The police must fulfill the duties and tasks of the new era entrusted to them by the Party and the people, said Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission. The police should ensure people have a stronger sense of security, and create a safe and stable political and social environment to secure a decisive victory in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, deliver on the two centenary goals and realize the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation, Xi added. The meeting was held in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 19:26:22|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close WINDHOEK, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Days after Namibian president Hage Geingob declared a state of emergency due to an on-going drought in the country, Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa Amadhila announced a drought intervention strategy. Speaking on Tuesday in the National Assembly, Amadhila announced a package of about 573 million Namibian dollars (about 40 million U.S. dollars) that will render food assistance, livestock marketing incentives as well as water tanks for families and farmers affected by the drought. She called on development partners and the business community to come together and help arrest a crisis that has recurred for the third time in six years. "Given the extent of the drought, these interventions will require the support of all Namibians, especially the business community and the international community." "We therefore call on all Namibians and development partners to assist in any way possible, so that we provide for our people who are affected as well as the livestock," said Amadhila. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 19:31:28|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close JOHANNESBURG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The South African police on Wednesday said they are on high alert to arrest anyone who will disrupt elections in the country following some incidents of disruption of voting. This follows the arrest of 21 people in North West province for burning two cars with elections material which was supposed to be used for voting. The crowd stopped the Independent Electoral Commission officials who were driving two cars and set alight the cars with voting material inside. "Barricading of roads, restricting or preventing of access to voting stations, inciting violence, damaging infrastructure, intimidation and assault among other acts, constitute conduct prohibited by law and those who commit any of these acts will be arrested and face legal consequences," said North West Provincial Commissioner Baile Motswenyane. The police said they have deployed officers to ensure that those going to vote do so in a peaceful environment. There were also incidents of disruptions in Eastern Cape. The Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Liziwe Ntshinga said they are on high alert to arrest those breaking the law. "We shall not hold back in arresting those who instigate violence, acts of criminality and cause disruption in the election processes. No one has the right to prevent other people from exercising their constitutional right to cast their votes," He said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 19:31:30|Editor: ZX Video Player Close Bian Shuming(L front), general manager of the China General Nuclear Power Corporation (CGN) Romania Nuclear Power Company, signs an agreement with Robert Tudorache, state secretary with the Romanian Ministry of Energy, in Bucharest, Romania, May 8, 2019. Romanian and Chinese companies signed on Wednesday the Investors Agreement in the preliminary form (PIA) regarding the continuation of the Cernavoda nuclear power plant Units 3 and 4 Project, marking a significant progress in bilateral cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. (Xinhua/Chen Jin) BUCHAREST, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Romanian and Chinese companies signed on Wednesday the Investors Agreement in the preliminary form (PIA) regarding the continuation of the Cernavoda nuclear power plant Units 3 and 4 Project, marking a significant progress in bilateral cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. Representatives of Romania's Nuclearelectrica and China General Nuclear Power Corporation (CGN) signed the agreement at the Romanian Ministry of Energy, in the presence of Vice Prime Minister Viorel Stefan, Minister of Energy Anton Anton, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Yu and Chinese Economic and Commercial Counselor Guan Gang. "New nuclear capabilities will play a key role in decarbonising electricity production in Romania and in the region," said the vice prime minister, stressing that the project will not only provide clean and safe energy for the future, but also up to 19,000 jobs. "Reaching a consensus in the negotiation process, mutually advantageous for both parties...is in actuality the effective initiation of the concrete measures to continue and develop the Units 3 and 4 of the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant (NPP)," the Minister of Energy said after the signing ceremony. Chinese Ambassador Jiang Yu said "cooperation in large projects is an important part of the construction of the Belt and Road and the highlight of the bilateral economic and trade cooperation." She congratulated the two companies for making the substantial progress after years of efforts in the cooperation of nuclear power projects between the two countries. "The Chinese government will work together with the Romanian government for the nuclear power project to start as soon as possible, setting a good example for pragmatic cooperation between the two countries," she added. The signing of the agreement represents an essential stage of the selection process launched in 2014 from the technical and operational point of view. The Investors Agreement in the preliminary form envisages the set-up of the project company (JVCO) having as limited aim to be the only technical and operational platform for the subsequent development of the project. The limit date for the set-up of the JVCO is 60 working days from the date of signing the Investors Agreement in the preliminary form. The JVCO is a joint stock company, set up in compliance with local law and it will have an initial duration of two years. Bian Shuming, general manager of the CGN Romania Nuclear Power Company, told Xinhua that the signing of the PIA marked a new stage of development for the bilateral cooperation. Going forward, CGN is fully committed to working closely together with its Romanian partner on the successful development of the next phases of the project in line with the agreed principles. CGN signed a memorandum of understanding with Nuclearelectrica in November 2015 for the construction of two new units at the Cernavoda nuclear power plant in Romania, with an estimated investment of some 8 billion U.S. dollars. Cernavoda is home to two operating Candu reactors, units 1 and 2, and produces around 18 percent of the country's electricity. The doubling of the production capacity of the plant through the construction of two new units represents a major competitive advantage in the medium and long term, according to local analysts. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 19:31:35|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China firmly opposed the U.S. House of Representatives' recent passing of the "Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019" and has made stern representations to the American side, a spokesman for the Foreign Ministry said Wednesday. The act seriously violated the one-China principle and provisions of the three Sino-U.S. joint communiques, spokesman Geng Shang told a daily press briefing, saying it "rudely" interfered in China's internal affairs. "We urge the U.S. side to adhere to the one-China principle and provisions of the three Sino-U.S. joint communiques and prevent the U.S. Congress from advancing the bill, handle Taiwan-related issues as appropriate in a bid to avoid seriously harming China-U.S. cooperation in important areas as well as peace and stability across in the Taiwan Strait," Geng stressed. Women are often the driving force in the burgeoning businesses of Chinatowns that are expanding beyond Seoul to the satellite towns of Suwon and Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. According to realtors, it is mostly ethnic Korean women from China who run the thriving restaurants, nail parlors, hair salons and other businesses there. They often end up owning several restaurants and also invest in standalone supermarkets and wedding halls. Korean-Chinese women started coming to Korea in the late 1990s, when the Chinese market opened. One of them is Kim sook-ja (64), who comes from the Chinese border region of Yanbian. She arrived in Korea in 1997 and started working in a restaurant, which she eventually bought with the help of her family in China. Now Kim owns six restaurants as well as a wedding hall in Guro and Gwangjin districts in Seoul. "I want to do something to help other ethnic Koreans from China adjust to life here," she says. Moon Ok-hwa (59) was an elementary school teacher in Yanbian before she followed her public servant husband to Korea in 1995. They first opened a small restaurant in Seoul's Dongdaemun. "We were working day and night." She recalls. Now she owns two noodle restaurants and two wedding halls in Daerim-dong. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 19:51:45|Editor: ZX Video Player Close KUNMING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A total of about 16 kg of ivory and ivory products have been seized since January, said customs authorities in Kunming, capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province. Over the period, Kunming Customs has investigated 298 smuggling cases involving 451 ivory items amid its intensified anti-smuggling efforts, the customs said Wednesday. Since Jan. 9, Kunming Changshui International Airport has been involved in 164 cases involving ivory and ivory products, accounting for 55.03 percent of the total seizures in the customs area. A total of 221 ivory items with a net weight of about 7.3 kg have been seized. China banned all domestic ivory trade at the end of 2017 as part of its commitment to protecting wild animals. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:01:52|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TEHRAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Iran's withdrawal from implementing parts of the 2015 nuclear deal on Wednesday will be intensified in future in case Tehran's interests under the pact cannot be honored, Iranian authorities said. The move by Iran comes after its persistent demands that the Europeans and other signatories of the deal should protect Tehran's economic and financial interests were not heeded appropriately. On Wednesday, ambassadors of France, Britain, Germany, Russia and China in Tehran received letters authorized by Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), saying that Iran scales back compliance with two of its commitments under the nuclear deal. Iran might stop more compliance with the nuclear deal after 60 days, the letters revealed. Iran's initial steps to stray away from its commitments subject to the deal were detailed by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's televised speech on Wednesday when he said that Iran would begin to build up stockpiles of its enriched uranium and heavy water. "It doesn't mean that Iran leaves the nuclear agreement, known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)," he said. The Iranian president said that Iran is ready for talks on its JCPOA-related economic interests, in which wide range of sanctions on the Iranian economy had been lifted but were reimposed by U.S. President Donald Trump following his entire withdrawal from the 2015 agreement last year. Under the nuclear deal clinched between Iran and world's six major powers in 2015, Iran accepted to send out its low-grade enriched uranium once its production exceeded 300 kg. Besides, Iran had to sell the extra amount heavy water product beyond 130 tons. Iran will wait for 60 days to start negotiations with the signatories of the nuclear deal over its economic interests enshrined by the nuclear deal, including its oil sales and international banking transactions, Rouhani said on Wednesday. "The path we have chosen today is not the path of war. It is the path of diplomacy," Rouhani said, adding that if Iran achieves no results after 60 days, it will adopt two more counter-measures to the U.S. withdrawal from the deal. Rouhani threatened that Iran might increase the level of uranium enrichment and start modernizing its heavy water reactor. "Under the nuclear deal, Iran accepted to keep the level of its enriched uranium at 3.67 percent. After 60 days (if there is no result for talks), we will not honor the level for uranium enrichment," he said. "At that time, Iran will also start to complete the construction of the Arak Heavy Water establishment," he added. Earlier on Wednesday, Iran's SNSC said in a statement that "at the current juncture, we are not committed to complying with the restrictions on the enriched uranium reserves and heavy water supplies." The statement also set a 60-day deadline for the remaining parties to the deal to fulfill their obligations, particularly in preserving Iran's interests in the areas of banking and oil. Prior to the president's letters and SNSC statement, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that Iran's measures to halt parts of it compliance to the deal are enshrined by the Articles 26 and 36 of JCPOA. According to the articles, Iran or any other signatory of the deal is entitled to stop implementing parts or all of their commitments under the document in case any party fails to remain committed to its obligations, he said. "Iran is not leaving the JCPOA, rather, it is acting totally within the framework of Articles 26 and 36 of the deal," he added. "Unfortunately, the European Union and other members of the international community could not stand up to the U.S. pressures," he said. Zarif added that Iran's move provides "an opportunity for other parties to the deal to take required measures, not just issue statements." On May 4, U.S. State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a statement that Washington revokes two waivers that allowed Iran to ship its excess heavy water and swap its enriched uranium for natural uranium. "The decisions today enhance our ability to constrain Iran's nuclear program while pursuing maximum economic pressure," Brian Hook, U.S. special representative for Iran, said on Friday. Trump pulled Washington out the Iranian international nuclear deal in May last year and returned energy and financial sanctions against the Iran. Washington seeks to seal a new nuclear deal with Iran to further curb Iran's nuclear program, stop Iran's ballistic missile development and brake Iran's push for influence in the region. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:01:55|Editor: ZX Video Player Close JINAN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Seven people have been arrested after they were implicated in a fatal fire last month in east China's Shandong Province, local authorities said Wednesday. The Provincial People's Procuratorate confirmed that the arrests of the seven suspects involved in the accident at Qilu Tianhe Pharmaceutical company on April 15 were made Tuesday. Earlier reports said that the fire happened at 3:37 p.m. on April 15, when welding sparks ignited a heat-transferring substance, generating smoke in the basement of the company, where 10 workers had been working on a pipeline renovation project. Eight of the workers were suffocated to death on the spot, while two others died despite emergency medical treatment. Twelve rescuers also sustained minor injuries from smoke inhalation. A source of the procuratorate said they were working on the case. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:12:05|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DAMASCUS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian army on Wednesday captured a key city in the countryside of Hama province in central Syria, as part of the military campaign launched recently against the ultra-radical rebels, a war monitor reported. The army captured the city of Kafr Naboudeh in the northern countryside of Hama province after battles with the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the umbrella group of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The UK-based watchdog group said the HTS is trying to retake the city that fell to the army following heavy shelling and airstrikes. The city has strategic importance as it links several towns in northern Hama countryside with rebel-held areas in the southern countryside of Idlib. A day earlier, the pro-government al-Watan newspaper reported that the Syrian army has started an operation against the rebels in the northern countryside of the central province of Hama. Buoyed up by artillery shelling and airstrikes, the army succeeded over the past hours in capturing three towns and a strategic hilltop in the northern and northwestern countryside of Hama. The military operation aims to eliminate the rebels of HTS from the northern countryside of Hama, al-Watan said. Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the Syrian army captured after midnight Tuesday the strategic Tal Othman area in northern Hama after battles with the rebels. According to the London-based watchdog, the airstrikes renewed Tuesday morning on the rebel-held areas in Hama countryside as well as the nearby countryside region of the northern provinces of Idlib and Aleppo. The escalation between the army and the rebels in Hama has lasted eight days. Areas in the countryside of Hama, Idlib and the western countryside of Aleppo are included in the de-escalation zones deal which was reached between Russia and Turkey in September 2018. The deal failed to materialize as the HTS, umbrella group of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, expanded in Idlib and started attacks on Syrian military positions instead of withdrawing from the designated zone which combines Idlib with Hama and Aleppo countryside. It's unclear yet whether the ongoing military operation will focus only on Hama countryside or expand to include Idlib, last major rebel stronghold in Syria. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:17:12|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close KIEV, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said on Wednesday that Kiev will not recognize Russian passports issued to residents of certain areas in Ukraine's eastern region of Donbas, the government press service said. "We make a decision to determine all passports issued to Ukrainian citizens in our territory as a violation of the rules of law. These passports will be considered illegal," Groysman told a cabinet meeting. Groysman also urged the international community not to accept the Russian documents issued to Donbas residents during the border crossing procedures. Last month, Russian media reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree to simplify the procedure for obtaining Russian passports by residents of certain areas in Donbas. According to the decree, the move has been taken "in order to protect human rights and freedoms." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:17:14|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TOULOUSE, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A 17-year-old man was arrested late Tuesday night in the Toulouse suburb of Blagnac after taking four women hostage in a tobacco shop and firing warning shots at police earlier in the evening. Christophe Castaner, French Minister of the Interior, announced on Twitter shortly before midnight on Tuesday that the youth had been arrested. Castaner also thanked the elite law enforcement units -- Search, Assistance, Intervention, and Deterrence (RAID) unit and Research and Intervention Brigade (BRI) -- for their "composure and professionalism." The hostages were freed earlier Tuesday evening, with the first hostage freed shortly before 8 p.m. (1800 GMT), and the remaining three hostages freed around 9 p.m. (1900 GMT). The scene began at 4:15 p.m. local time (1415 GMT), when the 17-year-old, named as Yanis D. in the French press, took four women hostage in a tobacco shop in Blagnac. The young man used his smart phone to stream the hostage-taking live on Facebook. In the video, he said he was "recruited by a militia" that was "seeking justice" and would reveal it in the coming days. He also made vague references to events that would take place in Paris at the Bastille, but claimed he was not a terrorist. In the video, he can be seen giving orders to the four hostages while gesturing with a hand gun, and heard saying "please" and "thank you." The youth was already known to police after being arrested at a December 2018 demonstration by the "yellow vests" movement, but terrorist motives have been ruled out at this stage. Local officials said at the scene that the teen appeared "depressed" and "concerned about his mental health." "It's a relief," Joseph Charles, mayor of Blagnac told French television channel BFMTV, adding that he does not "think he [the hostage taker] had the intention to really commit something irremediable.". Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:17:15|Editor: ZX Video Player Close KUNMING, May 8 (Xinhua) - Southwest China's Yunnan Province introduced a series of measures Tuesday to promote economic and cultural exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan. Zhang Chaode, director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the provincial government, said the 75 new measures cover economic, social and cultural exchanges and cooperation between Yunnan and Taiwan, as well as Taiwan people's education, starting a business, employment and living in the province. "The measures will encourage Taiwan investors and enterprises to invest or set up companies in Yunnan, and better integrate into the province's efforts to take part in the Belt and Road Initiative," said Zhang. The province will support and provide allowances for Taiwan enterprises who develop industries including crop farming, breeding, processing and cold-chain logistics in Yunnan. To attract more investment from Taiwan, Taiwan enterprises will be given special permission to participate in bidding for infrastructure projects in Yunnan, such as energy, transportation and water conservancy. Thanks to the measures, Taiwan compatriots will enjoy better services in education, living and insurance, as well as better financial services in Yunnan. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:22:19|Editor: ZX Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China's fiscal revenue rose 5.3 percent year on year to 7.27 trillion yuan (about 1.07 trillion U.S. dollars) in the first four months of the year, data showed Wednesday. The central government collected about 3.47 trillion yuan in fiscal revenue during the period, up 4.3 percent year on year, while local governments saw fiscal revenue rise 6.1 percent to around 3.8 trillion yuan, according to statistics from the Ministry of Finance (MOF). In a breakdown, revenue from individual income tax plunged 30.9 percent to 396.3 billion yuan. Revenue from stock trading stamp tax rose 4.6 percent over the same period last year to 54.1 billion yuan, while that from tariffs dropped by 6.6 percent, MOF data showed. "The figures show steady progress of China's economy," the MOF said in a statement on its website. China's fiscal spending expanded 15.2 percent year on year to 7.57 trillion yuan during the first four months, the MOF data showed. Social security and employment and education took the lion's share of fiscal spending, while expenditure on science and technology, transport and energy conservation and environmental protection kept a fast-growing pace. China will implement an employment-first policy this year, aiming to create more than 11 million new urban jobs, according to the government work report delivered to the annual session of China's top legislature on March 5. The country will maintain a proactive fiscal policy stance in 2019, with a higher deficit-to-GDP ratio to leave policy space to address potential risks. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:47:29|Editor: ZX Video Player Close HANGZHOU, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Ant Financial, an Alibaba affiliate, on Wednesday launched a mutual aid plan for seniors aged between 60 and 70. The new product is an extended version of Ant Financial's online healthcare platform Xiang Hu Bao, which means "mutual protection," that was launched in October 2018. The company said Wednesday that as of April 30, Xiang Hu Bao had 57 million registered users and helped 36 users get payouts to cover their medical fees. Xiang Hu Bao, offered through Ant Financial's online payment platform Alipay, requires no premiums. Users are free to sign up. It functions like a collective. When a member suffers from an illness, other members contribute evenly to payouts. The platform has established an online "jury panel" to examine and approve applications. It needs a majority of the jury's votes to pass a payout application. Ant Financial said the version of Xiang Hu Bao for seniors offers payouts of up to 100,000 yuan (about 14,700 U.S. dollars) if a member is diagnosed with cancer. Though Xiang Hu Bao for seniors is not an insurance product, it lowers the barrier for seniors to obtain basic health protection against cancer, said the company. At the end of 2018, China had 250 million citizens over 60 years old, accounting 17.9 percent of the country's total population. There is a big demand for health protection products, especially among the senior and elderly population. The fast-growing aging population will pose challenges to the country's economic development, as the country's expenditure in healthcare, pensions and other areas related to elderly citizens is projected to rise from 7.33 percent of the country's GDP to 26.24 percent from 2015 to 2050, according to a report issued by the Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Aging Well Association (CAWA). The country should further improve its healthcare and social security systems to address the rapid aging of the population, said Liu Yuanli, director of the CAWA and chief editor of the report. China's National Health Commission has released a working plan with 12 other government departments to boost the health of the elderly. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 20:47:31|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Zorana Mihajlovic (3rd R, front), Serbian Minister of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, and Chinese ambassador to Serbia Chen Bo (3rd L, front) pose for a group photo at the construction site of Belgrade Bypass motorway in Belgrade, Serbia, on May 8, 2019. Cooperation with China in the field of infrastructure development is vital for the expansion of Serbia's transit capacities and for the country to become a regional transport hub, said Mihajlovic on Wednesday. She made the remarks while visiting the Belgrade Bypass motorway construction site contracted by the Power Construction Corporation of China (PowerChina). (Xinhua/Nemanja Cabric) BELGRADE, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Cooperation with China in the field of infrastructure development is vital for the expansion of Serbia's transit capacities and for the country to become a regional transport hub, said Serbian Minister of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure Zorana Mihajlovic on Wednesday. She made the remarks while visiting the Belgrade Bypass motorway construction site contracted by the Power Construction Corporation of China (PowerChina). Touring the construction site with Chinese Ambassador Chen Bo, Mihajlovic praised the progress of PowerChina and its sub-contractor Azvirt from Azerbaijan on the 20.4-kilometer Segment B of the Belgrade Bypass that is worth 207 million euros (231.9 million U.S. dollars). "Our plan is for the same companies -- PowerChina and Azvirt -- to start construction work on Segment C, and I am very satisfied with all our achievements in infrastructure with China," she said. Mihajlovic, who is also deputy prime minister, recalled that Serbia had signed a memorandum with China on the construction of Segment C of the Belgrade Bypass, and will apply for a loan with the Export-Import Bank of China by June this year. Belgrade Bypass, with eight bridges and four tunnels remaining to be constructed, will help divert the existing volume of 15,500 cars and 2,000 trucks travelling through the city per hour, making transit through the Serbian capital less difficult. Compared with 2014, the number of cars using Serbia's highway corridors has increased by 25-30 million annually. Mihajlovic said that Serbia had also signed an agreement with China for the reconstruction of the Novi Sad-Subotica segment of the Belgrade-Budapest railway line to the tune of one billion euros. Construction should start this year, once the agreement gets the approval from the country's parliament. Moreover, on May 17, construction is scheduled to begin at the Preljina-Pozega segment of Serbia's new E763 highway built by the China Communication Construction Company. Infrastructure development has so far been the most visible proof of cooperation between Serbia and China, resulting in numerous mutually beneficial projects, said the Chinese ambassador. "We have already achieved great, visible results in the area of infrastructure in the mutual interests of economic development of both Serbia and China," Chen noted, assuring that cooperation will grow even stronger in the future. Private investment crucial for BRI From:ChinaDaily | 2019-05-08 10:29 New sources of financing critical to fill funding gap, says Citibank vice-chairman Participants in the Belt and Road Initiative have a growing desire to get as many of the Belt and Road projects done in the private sector as possible. Alan S. MacDonald, vice-chairman of Citibank, is one such participant. "This is wonderful because it means that the program can be bigger. It doesn't only depend on the public sector. If you can do things in the private sector, then the public sector can use its resources in a more concentrated way to make these projects commercially viable in the private sector," MacDonald said on the sidelines of the Second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing last month. More projects can be done if the private sector is financing them than if the public sector is financing them, MacDonald added. He was encouraged that Chinese officials talked about private sector involvement a few times at an April 25 forum session. The gap in Asia and globally between the need for infrastructure and the funds available for it is big. There is no way for governments to fill the gap and private sector investment is crucial. Institutional investors like pension funds and insurance companies could play a large role in the Belt and Road Initiative, but they have not so far. "We are not yet at kind of a good balance, and we have to keep going on this narrow subject," MacDonald said. Alan S. MacDonald, vice-chairman of Citibank. [Photo/China Daily] Another change he said he has observed over the last two years is the BRI's evolvement into a global initiative, as the Chinese leadership is listening to feedback and adjusting the program as they go along. "There is an increase in third-party components in Belt and Road projects that are designed by Chinese construction and engineering companies. I think that has been an important development in terms of getting more support from more countries," he said. Starting with about 60 countries and regions, the initiative has now attracted more than 120 economies to participate. Loletta Chow, global leader of EY's China Overseas Investment Network, said: "In the past five years, the BRI has not only received positive feedback and worldwide participation and landed many large projects, but has also demonstrated China's commitment to enhancing international cooperation. Third-party market cooperation connects China's competitive production capacity and developed countries' advanced technology with developing countries' vast development demand, achieving a win-win situation." After the Belt and Road forum in 2017, Citigroup talked to its Chinese corporate clients doing business internationally as well as its multinational corporate clients to find out how the bank could help them. The clients said they believe the initiative is exciting, and they will develop projects to figure out how they can take advantage of everything that has been offered in support of the initiative. In the past 12 months through April 25, Citigroup had recorded 30 percent growth in revenues from supporting clients' business development in countries and regions involved in the BRI. The growth came mainly from corporate and investment banking, cash management, trade finance and foreign exchange businesses. The bank has seen strong revenue growth in the technology and energy sectors, as well as its business with financial institutions. A combination of providing comprehensive banking services to multinational corporations and leading Chinese companies that participate in Belt and Road projects has underpinned the growth. Citigroup has a large network covering more than 100 markets involved in the BRI, where it supports over 3,500 corporate clients. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 21:02:37|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close NAIROBI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Kenyan government said on Wednesday it expects to achieve its sanitation targets by 2030 in accordance with its vision. Winnie Guchu, chief administrative secretary for water and sanitation, said the ministry is optimistic to achieve the targets alongside the African Union (AU)'s agenda 2063 and the UN's sustainable development goals (SDGs). "We need a change of attitude from our partners since sanitation currently does not receive financial attention as water," Guchu said at an annual conference for the Water Service Providers Association of Kenya (WASPA). She said the government has developed a plan of action that targets collaboration with the development partners and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to mobilizing human and financial resources to ensure that targets set are met within a given period of time. "We have started mainstreaming sanitation in the national and county governments with the aim of improving its importance for human dignity, self esteem, gender equality and poverty reduction," she added. The official revealed that access to sewerage is currently 16 percent in urban areas and 7.3 percent nationally. She said about 5.6 million Kenyans, or 12.5 percent of the population, still practice open defecation despite the government efforts in reducing the percentage. So far, only three counties have been declared open defecation free (ODF) and 13,328 villages have also been certified as ODF. "This sanitation status is unacceptable since in 2017, 20 percent of Kenyans were using safely managed services while basic sanitation services stood at 5 percent," Guchu added. She said that sanitation plays a central role in sustainable development as improved access to water and sanitation can break disease-poverty cycle. Guchu said the negative impact of insufficient sanitation services on education and productivity of the population is equally huge. Many rural households have to spend many hours per day fetching water from unsecured sources where water quality is suspect. "This burden is left to women and it ends up affecting the girl child education," the official said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 21:02:41|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close Members of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) attend the EBRD 2019 Annual Meeting in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on May 8, 2019. The EBRD kicked off on Wednesday its 2019 Annual Meeting and Business Forum in Sarajevo. (Xinhua/Nedim Grabovica) SARAJEVO, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) kicked off on Wednesday its 2019 Annual Meeting and Business Forum here in the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). In his address opening the event, Denis Zvizdic, chairman of BiH's Council of Ministers, said that during the two-day meeting, the participating bankers, financial experts and businessmen will talk about the best models for the economic development of BiH and the region of the Western Balkans. In over 40 sessions, they will exchange valuable experiences with the aim of strengthening economic ties within and outside the region. Zvidic pointed out that the country's gross domestic product (GDP) growth, as in the preceding years, exceeded 3 percent in 2018, and that this trend is set to continue in 2019. In addition, he said, the volume of foreign trade reached 32 billion convertible mark (18.3 billion U.S. dollars) for the first time in 2018. BiH's most important foreign trading partner is the European Union (EU), where the country exports over 73 percent of its products, Zvizdic said. He highlighted that BiH chalked up a record 800 million convertible marks (457.6 million U.S. dollars) worth of foreign direct investment in 2018, an increase of around 50 percent compared to the previous year, with the trend projected to continue in 2019. "In all our plans for the future, the EBRD has been, and remains, one of the key supports and factors of the future process of building a stable and economically prosperous BiH," Zvizdic concluded. In his address, EBRD President Suma Chakrabarti stated that the bank has been present in BiH since the end of 1995 with numerous projects. The EBRD wants to do more in all its regions, he said. "Integration is one of our priorities. It's a powerful trade expansion tool that encourages the exchange of new ideas and innovations," Chakrabarti said. According to a press statement issued by BiH's Council of Ministers on Wednesday, the EBRD has cumulatively invested over 2.3 billion euros in BiH in over 160 different projects, of which 82 percent are infrastructure investments. In 2018 alone, the EBRD invested 200 million euros in BiH, a significant increase compared with 130 million euros in 2017. The EBRD's Annual Meeting is the largest and most significant economic event in the region, bringing together more than 3,000 participants and 82 delegations. (one euro currently equals to 1.12 U.S. dollars) Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 21:17:51|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian authorities said on Wednesday they were beefing up surveillance in the country's borders following a surge in cases of the deadly disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). "We have trained 350 health officers on surveillance measures against the disease, especially in regions bordering with neighboring countries," Ummy Mwalimu, the Minister for Health, said in an interview with Xinhua. Mwalimu was reacting to a marked increase of death toll from the Ebola epidemic in DRC in recent days. She said 350 health workers have been dispatched in border regions of Kagera, Katavi, Rukwa, Songwe, Kigoma, Mbeya, Mwanza and Dar es Salaam. Mwalimu said the ministry has reinforced tests for the deadly disease in the national laboratory, the southern highlands zone laboratory and the Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center laboratory. She added that the government has bought 106 handheld and walk-through thermal scanners and distributed them to 31 border points in 14 regions and three international airports in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza and Kilimanjaro. "At the same time we are raising awareness to members of the public through various means, including the media and posters," added Mwalimu. According to the United Nations, the current Ebola outbreak in the DRC is the most serious in the country's history. The Ebola virus is highly contagious and causes a range of symptoms including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, generalized pain or malaise and in many cases internal and external bleeding. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:08:11|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania is set to host the 39th summit of the 16-member Southern African Development Community (SADC) in August this year, a senior official said on Wednesday. Palamagamba Kabudi, the nation's Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, said in a news conference that the summit to be held in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam will be chaired by President John Magufuli. He said the summit will be preceded by a ministerial meeting that will bring together ministers, permanent secretaries and other government officials. Kabudi said the summit will go in tandem with an exhibition that will display industrial products. "I am appealing to industrialists to participate in the exhibition for marketing their products," said the minister. SADC is a regional economic community established in 1992, which is committed to regional integration and poverty eradication within southern Africa through economic development and ensuring peace and security. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:08:12|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close TRIPOLI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Security Department of the western Libyan city of Zuwara, some 120 km west of the capital Tripoli, on Wednesday announced arresting 21 illegal immigrants. "After receiving information about a number of illegal immigrants in a farm located south of Abu Kammash town (35 km west of Zuwara), a patrol was sent to investigate," the department said in a statement. "After the information received was confirmed, the farm was surrounded and stormed," the statement added. It noted that 21 immigrants, including 5 women and a child, were found in the farm, all of whom were in a good health condition. The immigrants have been taken to a police station in Zuwara to take necessary procedures, the statement added. Libya is a preferred point of departure for immigrants wanting to cross the Mediterranean towards European shores because of the state of insecurity and chaos that followed the 2011 uprising. Immigrants' shelters in Libya are crowded with thousands of migrants who have been rescued or arrested by the Libyan authorities. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:13:15|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close YANGON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- An aircraft of Biman Bangladesh airlines skidded off the runway at Myanmar's Yangon International Airport and broke into three pieces on Wednesday, airport police said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:18:17|Editor: Xiang Bo Video Player Close Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, speaks at a national conference on public security in Beijing, capital of China. The meeting was held in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has stressed the need to enhance the political loyalty of the country's police force, strengthen them through reform and technology, and run them with strict discipline, at a national conference on public security. Chinese police must fulfill the duties and tasks of the new era entrusted to them by the Party and the people, said Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission. The police should ensure the people have a stronger sense of security and create a safe and stable political and social environment to secure a decisive victory in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, deliver on the two centenary goals and realize the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation, Xi added. The meeting was held in Beijing on Tuesday and Wednesday. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, and Vice Premier Han Zheng, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the meeting. On political integrity, Xi demanded the police closely follow the CPC Central Committee in terms of thinking, political orientation, and actions at all times. The police should ensure that the Party's lines, principles, policies, and major decisions and plans are implemented to the letter, he said. He also noted the need to proactively prevent and properly defuse various kinds of social contradictions to guarantee a society of vitality, stability and order. The police should solve prominent problems that affect the people's sense of security to honor their obligations of fighting against crime and protecting the people. Fairness and justice are the lifelines of law enforcement and judicial work, Xi said, demanding efforts to let the people see that justice is served in every case. Xi also called for deepening the reform of police force in the new era and building a better and more efficient system of public security organs. Big data should be used as an engine to power the innovative development of public security work and a new growth point for nurturing combat capabilities, said Xi. He noted that strict discipline over the police should never be loosened, and violations of discipline or law should always be treated without tolerance. In his closing remarks, Guo Shengkun, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, ordered police force to earnestly study and implement the spirit of Xi's speech. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:18:21|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close LONDON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in London on Wednesday for talks with British officials on the special relationship between the two countries amid heightened tensions with Iran and Brexit uncertainty. Pompeo is scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Theresa May and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt during his one-day visit "to discuss shared global priorities. He will also "give a speech on the U.S.-UK Special Relationship", according to a State Department statement issued on May 1. The senior U.S. official arrived in London after making an unannounced visit to Iraq. He previously canceled a scheduled trip to Germany. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:18:23|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close RABAT, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Morocco's navy coast guards have rescued 27 illegal immigrants from sub-Saharan African nations off the northern city of Kenitra, the Moroccan army said on Wednesday. The rescued included 9 women, among them two pregnant women, the army pointed out. The migrants were brought safely to port of the northern city of Casablanca, the same source noted. According to the Moroccan Ministry of Interior, a total of 88,761 migrants have been prevented from leaving Morocco in 2018. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:18:25|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close JOHANNESBURG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa cast his vote at a Soweto voting station on Wednesday, promising to prioritize reviving the sluggish economy and bringing more investment. Speaking to the media after voting at Hitekani primary school, Ramaphosa said despite the challenges the country has been through, change was imminent. "This election has largely been about local issues. We are committed that we are going to embark on a process of growing the economy, attracting investment and the outcome of the election would be a major boost also to investors," he said. Some analysts have predicted that the elections would be the most difficult for the ruling African National Congress (ANC) since 1994. The president said he was aware of the party's past mistakes. "We still have challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality. The clear mandate we're getting out of this election is to speed up economic growth to address the plight of our people," he said. The president said his government is aware that communities want better services and issues such as corruption to be tackled. "People want us to hasten service delivery. I'm humbled by the turnout. Never again, must South Africa go through what it went through where there was malfeasance and rampant corruption. Our people hate corruption," he added. Before voting, Ramaphosa interacted with other voters waiting in the queue. Voter Salphina Nonakwe told Xinhua that she would be voting for the ANC. "We love Cyril Ramaphosa. We can't judge before he tries. We don't want corruption. We want our children to get jobs and get good education. No poverty, but jobs," said the 52-year-old former domestic worker. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:23:29|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close ARUSHA, Tanzania, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Environmental experts from nine African countries on Wednesday met in Tanzania to discuss issues related to Indian Ocean governance. The experts are from countries who are implementing the Western Indian Ocean Large Marine Ecosystem Strategic Action Programme Policy Harmonization and Institutional Reforms, which was derived from a previous project funded by the Global Environmental Facility (GEF). Countries, which are implementing the project, include Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar and Mozambique. In implementing the project the National Environmental Management Council (NEMC) is the focal point in Tanzania. Esnati Chaggu, chairman of the Board of Directors of the NEMC, revealed this when speaking in the country's commercial capital, Dar es Salaam during a one-day workshop on sustainable ocean resources management in and beyond eastern Africa. Chaggu called on African nations to ensure delivery of best practices and upholding past lessons in ocean governance. He said the project was an expression of joint commitment to see that addressing environmental concerns such as pollution, over-exploitation of coastal and marine resources and coastal habitat alteration is effectively and efficiently managed. "We all contribute towards realization of the sustainable development goals," Chaggu told participants The current work is implemented by the Nairobi Convention Secretariat under the United Nations Environment Programme, the United Nations Development Programme and GEF. Chaggu said the overall objective of the project is to achieve effective long-term ecosystem management and that particular attention will be paid to supporting policy harmonization and management reforms toward improved ocean governance. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:28:31|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close HARARE, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe's High Court ruled Wednesday that Nelson Chamisa is an illegitimate leader of the opposition MDC, declaring his appointment as party vice-president and subsequently president as null and void. This follows an application by the party's Gokwe district organizing secretary Elias Mashavire challenging the decision by the late MDC-T leader Morgan Tsvangirai to unilaterally appoint Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri to the positions of co-vice presidents of the party in 2016. The two joined the party's first vice-president Thokozani Khupe, leaving the party with three deputies. Upon former president Tsvangirai's death last year, Chamisa assumed presidency of the MDC after elbowing out Khupe and Mudzuri from the succession race. The High Court judge Edith Mushore ordered the MDC to hold an extraordinary congress to choose new party leader within a month. The judge also said all the appointments made by Chamisa were null and void. The party was due to hold an ordinary congress at the end of this month, with Chamisa having already been endorsed as the party's presidential candidate by all the party's 13 provinces. Chamisa contested and lost in the presidential elections held in 2018 but he garnered the second most votes at 44.3 percent against President Emmerson Mnangagwa's 50.8 percent. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:33:37|Editor: yan Video Player Close SOFIA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Bulgarian authorities have seized 1,670 antique artifacts in a private home in the town of Novi Pazar, the country's Ministry of Interior said in a statement on Wednesday. The artifacts, including antique coins, rings, seals, arrowheads and buckles, were found on Tuesday after the authorities had obtained information that the 62-year-old homeowner illegally possessed cultural and historical objects, the statement said. The police also found a metal detector, it said. An examination has been launched, the statement added. Bulgaria is rich in archaeological heritage. Novi Pazar is located only 6 kilometers east of Pliska, Bulgaria's first capital between 681 and 893 AD. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:33:42|Editor: yan Video Player Close LOME, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The parliamentary elections held on April 28 in Benin have, for the first time, flared into an unprecedented hectic situation since the advent in the 1990s of the democratic renewal in the west African country. Instead of setting the stage for a peaceful environment to foster economic development, the elections were scorned for non-inclusiveness as opposition parties were said to be arbitrarily excluded from the process. Meanwhile, voter turnout marked a record low during the April elections. Only 1.3 million voters cast their ballots out of 4.9 million registered voters, representing a 27.12 percent participation rate, Benin's political scientist Parfait Assogba said. The participation rate was compared to 52 percent and 76 percent in 1991 and 1995, respectively, and according to the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Analysis, the nation's population is projected to be 11.884 million in 2019. Assogba said the low turnout was essentially the aftermaths of the call for an election boycott by seven opposition political parties, who were excluded of the election process as they were said to be not complying with provisions of the new charter of political parties and the new election code. Though about ten parties were to be in competition, only two, "Bloc Republicain" and "Union Progressiste", who are close to President Patrice Talon, fulfilled registration. This has led to nationwide unrest, as political actors failed to find compromises. Missions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations also failed to bring actors of the election system and opposition parties to reaching a consensus in ensuring inclusivity for the elections. The stage was then set for an outcry against the elections, as the opposition called for demonstrations in the capital Cotonou. Protest marches occurred under the rallying cry "No election without opposition political forces", and spread over the country until voting day in some northern and central areas and were violently repressed by the security forces. President Talon, through a broadcast debate, had asked for restraint from the demonstrators and opposition leaders. However protests continued after the results published on May 2 by the Constitutional Court showed the "Bloc Progressiste" and "Union Republicain", two parties close to the president, respectively gained 47 and 36 seats, leading to an entirely Talon-supportive parliament. Benin authorities also stepped up measures with military forces to repress protesters, causing the death of at least three people. Analysts say the events have opened an era of unrest likely to impact negatively development efforts in Benin, until the democratic model with a peaceful political regime and fair elections in the west African country return. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:38:44|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Guests attend a signing ceremony at the Iraqi Oil Ministry in Baghdad, Iraq on May 8, 2019. Iraq and a Chinese company signed on Wednesday a 1.07-billion-U.S. dollar agreement to process associated gas extracted from Iraq's southern giant Halfaya oilfield. (Xinhua/Khalil Ddawood) BAGHDAD, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Iraq and a Chinese company signed on Wednesday a 1.07-billion-U.S. dollar agreement to process associated gas extracted from Iraq's southern giant Halfaya oilfield. In the signing ceremony at the Iraqi Oil Ministry in Baghdad, PetroChina, which is the listed arm of state-owned China National Petroleum Corporation, signed a contract for gas processing plant (GPP) project with China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation (CPECC). The contract aims to process associated gas with capacity of around 300 million cubic feet of standard gas per day from Halfaya oilfield. Also in the ceremony, Maysan Oil Company, the owner of Halfaya oilfield, signed a memorandum of understanding with PetroChina, which is the main operator of Halfaya oilfield, to ensure the implementation of the required specifications included in the contract with CPECC. GPP project will contribute to reducing gas flare pollution to environment, and will also contribute significantly to resolving power shortage problem by providing dry gas to power stations in Maysan province. Iraqi Oil Minister Thamir al-Ghadhban said in the ceremony that "the GPP project signed today between PetroChina and CPECC, is one of the important and strategic projects for developing the gas industry in Iraq." "The contract will stop the burning and waste of gas and will provide jobs for many Iraqis," al-Ghadhban said. For his part, China's Ambassador to Iraq Zhang Tao said in the ceremony that "the relations between China and Iraq have seen a significant progress in all fields, particularly in oil and gas field." "We have many companies working in cooperation with Iraq's oil ministry," he said, adding that "cooperation in the field of oil and energy is an important part of the cooperation between the two countries, as China is the biggest importer of the Iraqi oil." Liu Haijun, president of CPECC, said that "the project of processing gas in Halfaya is of great importance for the development of Iraq's economy, and will contribute to providing sufficient dry gas for power stations." He said that one of the priorities of CPECC is providing job opportunities for Iraqis in the project as well as transferring modern technology to Iraq. GPP project is scheduled to complete after 30 months, making Halfaya the first oilfield eliminating gas flaring in Iraq. Halfaya is located in east of the Maysan's provincial capital Amarah, and it is the largest oilfield of Maysan oil company, producing about 400,000 barrel per day. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:38:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close NAIROBI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Kenya has opened the first migration studies institute to help improve migration management in the Horn of Africa, a government official said on Wednesday. Gordon Kihalangwa, principal secretary for immigration said that the Kenya Institute of Migration Studies (KIMS) which is based at University of Nairobi (UoN) had its first admission of students early this week. "The first students are drawn from all Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) member countries," Kihalangwa told delegates attending a conference on scientific conference on forced displacement and mixed migration. He said that the institute is the first institution of its kind in the region and is collaboration between the State Department of Migration and Citizen Services, Maastricht Graduate School of Governance in Netherlands and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Kihalangwa said the institute that was launched in December 2018 offers post graduate program in migration governance and management. The post-graduate diploma will be open to mid-level managers from the State Department of Migration and Citizen Services as well as other government officials from Kenya and other parts of Africa. Kihalangwa said that the Horn of Africa region paints a gloomy picture of dangerous, chaotic and irregular migration flows that call for a thorough academic study. "The region experiences some of most brutal conflicts and political instability, fatal poverty and extreme climate invariability leading to different forms of mobility," he added. The Kenyan official said that the government takes migration matters seriously and has participated in international and regional meetings aimed at finding a lasting solution. Kenya, he said, regularly updates national migration profile, adding that the 2018 profile is due to be launched in late May. "We have finalized developing a multi-sectoral national migration policy that will be launched soon and also domesticated the international legal instruments on the fight against trafficking in persons," he said. Kihalangwa told delegates that the country has also adopted one stop border management practice to reduce cross border criminal activities and to facilitate seamless movement of persons, commodity and services. He said that Kenya recently registered over 1,000 stateless members of the Makonde community who originally immigrated into the country from Malawi in the early 1960s as part of an effort to ending statelessness in the region. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:43:54|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. arms manufacturer Lockheed Martin has lowered the price of F-35A fighter jets to a record low of 80 million U.S. dollars, according to media reports late Tuesday. "We currently have an offer submitted to the Department of Defense for Lots 12-14 that is below the 80 million dollars F-35A for lot 14 in 2020, per our longstanding commitment," website Defense One quoted company spokesman Mike Friedman as saying. "As we ramp up production, each year we have lowered cost, reduced build time, improved quality and on time delivery," Friedman said. The asking price is for about 100 F-35A jets that are part of a block purchase of 450 jets, which also include F-35Bs and F-35Cs. In a deal signed last September, the model was sold for just shy of 90 million dollars a piece. The price reduction came as the U.S. Defense Department gestured it would resume purchasing F-15 Eagle fighter jets from Lockheed Martin's competitor Boeing. The F-35 fighter jet has three variations, the F-35A for the Air Force, the F-35B for the Marine Corps, and the F-35C for the U.S. Navy. Lockheed Martin has reportedly delivered 385 F-35s to the U.S. military and allies. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:44:00|Editor: yan Video Player Close JAKARTA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- PT Honda Prospect Motor (HPM), a subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in Indonesia, has recalled 2,856 Accord sedans manufactured from 2003 to 2007 due to a problem on the airbag inflator, the carmaker said on Wednesday. The company said in a statement that there was potential for the airbag inflator expanding excessively which will endanger drivers and passengers. The firm asked the owners of the vehicles to immediately have their airbag inflators replaced in licensed Honda dealers. Indonesia, southeast Asia's biggest economy, is one of the world's fastest growing markets for automobiles. In 2018, automakers sold a total of 1,151,413 cars in the country, up from 1,079,886 units in the previous year, according to data from Indonesia's car association. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:44:02|Editor: yan Video Player Close JUBA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan said Wednesday the ill-fated Antonov plane that crashed killing 19 people on board on Sept.9, 2018 in the Yirol area of central Eastern Lakes region did not get flight clearance. Jalling Deloro Yengkeji, director general of the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA), said investigations conducted together with technicians from Slav Air found that the accident was due to poor mechanical condition and bad weather. "The weather was not good and visibility was very poor due to fog at the airport. The crew which crashed was different from those who brought the aircraft to South Sudan and before the crash the aircraft was flown by two pilots from Khartoum brought by South West Aviation and were not inspected," he told journalists in Juba during release of the report on the crash. The committee was formed by the government on Sept. 11, 2018 after the plane crash. Yengkeji disclosed that Slav Air leased the aircraft to South West Aviation, a local company in Juba and that the ill-fated aircraft had been issued a one way permit flight from Khartoum to Juba on May 17, 2018. Its insurance coverage was valid. "A week before the crash the aircraft underwent some power plant maintenance in Pibor due to propeller malfunction, and was not issued a certificate of release for service by (SSCAA) officials," he said. He added that the crew did not check the weather brief at meteorological department prior to their departure for Yirol. "We recovered the black box and sent it to Ukraine and they discovered that the technician did not replace the tape and the reading of the tape of the black box was nil. It was instead reading the other previous flights flown before from Ukraine to Italy and then Khartoum," said Yengkeji. South Sudan in April banned planes spanning 20 years of service from transporting people, limiting them to cargo in a bid to minimize plane accidents. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:54:10|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (Front) leaves after a meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May at Downing Street in London, Britain, on May 8, 2019. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in London on Wednesday for talks with British officials on the special relationship between the two countries amid heightened tensions with Iran and Brexit uncertainty. (Xinhua/Ray Tang) LONDON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Visiting U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said here on Wednesday that he hopes Brexit can be resolved soon "because President Trump is eager to strike a bilateral trade agreement" with Britain. Pompeo told a joint press conference held with British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt that the UK-U.S. special relationship is "thriving". The U.S. Secretary of State is in London for talks with British officials on the special relationship between the two countries amid heightened tensions with Iran and Brexit uncertainty. He met with British Prime Minister Theresa May and Hunt during his one-day visit "to discuss shared global priorities." Hunt said Iran's latest announcement that it will pull out of some of its commitments under the international nuclear deal is an "unwelcome step". There will be "consequences" if Iran ceases its commitments on the nuclear deal, he noted. Pompeo arrived in London after making an unannounced visit to Iraq. He previously canceled a scheduled trip to Germany. War films depicting harsh childhoods By:Zheng Qian | From:english.eastday.com | 2019-05-07 15:52 Capharnaum, a Lebanese drama film, hit the big screen in China recently and has stirred up a heated discussion of childhoods turned upside down by war. Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, the movie tells the story of Zain, a Lebanese refugee boy who sues his parents for the "crime" of giving him life. When the gutsy streetwise child flees his negligent parents, he is faced by a series of troubles. Like the miseries that Zain suffers, here are some other movies depicting children suffering from war. 01 Monos (2019) Voted best film of the Sundance Film Festival 2019, Monos tells the story of eight kids with guns watching over a hostage and a milk cow on a faraway mountaintop. This overpoweringly tense and deeply mad thriller from Colombian film-maker Alejandro Landes depicts a dysfunctional society and guilt-ridden family in miniature. It demonstrates the shifting power dynamics of a cult and the craziness embedded in the minds of child soldiers. 02 Midnight Traveler (2019) Midnight Traveler is an unforgettable portrait of the refugee experience. When the Taliban puts a bounty on Afghan director Hassan Fazili's head, he is forced to flee with his wife and two young daughters. Capturing their uncertain journey, Fazili shows firsthand the dangers facing refugees seeking asylum and the love shared between a family on the run. Unlike a more conventional refugee documentary - shot by an outsider parachuting in - this is an intimate and ongoing study in which the family have complete agency, lending the film an additional ring of truth. 03 The Day I lost My Shadow (2018) The winner of the 2018 Venice Film Festival Lion of the Future award for best first film, the near-contemporary war drama The Day I Lost My Shadow has a quite basic plot. This sees mother Sana becoming separated from her son after departing their home in a war-stricken Syrian city to try and find a gas bottle with which to cook them a hot meal. 04 Of Fathers and Sons (2017) After his Sundance award-winning documentary Return to Homs, Talal Derki returned to his homeland where he gained the trust of a radical Islamist family, sharing their daily life for over two years. His camera focuses mainly on the children, providing an extremely rare insight into what it means to grow up with a father whose only dream is to establish an Islamic Caliphate. Osama and his brother Ayman are at the center of the story. They both love and admire their father and obey his words, but while Osama seems to follow the path of Jihad, Ayman wants to go back to school. As a glimpse into the gradual radicalization of young males and the deep community ties which underpin the process, Of Fathers and Sons is of obvious anthropological value. 05 Goodbye, Children (1987) Goodbye, Children tells an evocative, tender story of friendship between two French boarding school boys towards the end of the Second World War. The film won the Golden Lion in Venice in 1987, and is based on real wartime school experiences of the director Louis Malle. During the Nazi occupation of France, the two students witness the courage of his teachers as they defy the anti-Semitic policies of the German forces, and quietly enroll Jewish children in their school using assumed names. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:54:13|Editor: yan Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The government of Tanzania on Wednesday warned that smugglers of minerals will face the full force of the law, including confiscation of their assets. Dotto Biteko, the Minister for Minerals, urged all dealers in minerals to sell their precious stones to minerals trading centers that were being established across the east African nation. Biteko was speaking in the northwest city of Mwanza on the shores of Lake Victoria shortly after he had inaugurated a minerals trading center. The inauguration of the center brought to 13 the number of minerals trading centers that have been opened in the country since President John Magufuli had ordered the creation of such centers early this year to curb smuggling of the minerals out of the country. "Anybody caught smuggling minerals out of the country will face the music, including confiscation of assets," warned the minister. On April 27, President Magufuli ordered regional commissioners in regions producing minerals to open trading centers of the precious stones in seven days. Addressing a public rally in Chunya district in Mbeya region last week, the president wondered why that order he made early this year was not being observed by the regional commissioners. "I want to see mineral trading centers in gold producing regions to be in operation within seven days from today," said Magufuli in an address televised live by state-owned national broadcaster Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation. "The mineral trading centers help in curbing smuggling of gold out of the country," said the president. The mineral trading centers accommodated buyers, miners, government offices, banks and dealers at a one-stop center. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 22:59:19|Editor: yan Video Player Close BERLIN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Following a strong first quarter (Q1) of 2019, German payment service provider Wirecard has raised its operating profit forecast for the whole fiscal year, the company announced on Wednesday. Wirecard expects its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) to exceed 760 million euros (851 million U.S. dollars) in 2019, which would amount to an increase of 36 percent compared with last year's figure. In Q1 2019, Wirecard's consolidated revenues increased by over one third to a total of 566.7 million euros, while EBITDA grew even stronger by 40.7 percent to 158 million euros. "The convergence of digital payment with innovative value-added services in the field of financial services and data-driven services on one platform will drive the formation of one of the world's largest growth markets," said Markus Braun, chief executive officer of Wirecard. The company accounts for the growth in earnings by the 37.4 percent increase in transaction volume to 36.7 billion euros. "Scaling effects" from Wirecard's transaction-oriented business model as well as from the "increased usage of the banking services" offered by the payment service provider also had a positive effect on Q1 earnings, according to Wirecard. As part of investigations in Asia in the first quarter of 2019, Wirecard's legal and financial costs more than doubled to 7.5 million euros. Following reports about balance sheet manipulation in Singapore alleged by the Financial Times, Wirecard has seen a major drop in share prices, from which it has not recovered yet. The German payment provider has repeatedly denied wrongdoing and was largely cleared of the allegations by an audit report prepared by the law firm Rajah & Tann. In a rare move, the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) had banned short trading in Wirecard for two months back in February. The German supervisors at BaFin also filed charges on suspicion of market manipulation "in the form of a short attack on shares in Wirecard AG." Investors on the stock market reacted positively to the publication of Wirecard's Q1 figures. Share prices temporarily increased by almost 4 percent and were among the winners in the German stock index DAX on Wednesday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:09:29|Editor: yan Video Player Close DAMASCUS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- At least two people were killed and four others were wounded on Wednesday by the blast of a motorcycle in northern Syria, a war monitor reported. The booby-trapped motorcycle went off in the western countryside of the Kurdish-controlled Manbij city in the northern countryside of Aleppo province in northern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. A day earlier, a similar blast rocked the city of Manbij, causing losses. The Kurdish militia groups usually accuse the Islamic State of carrying out such explosions. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:29:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close HELSINKI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Antti Rinne, leader of the Social Democrat (SDP) party in Finland, announced plans on Wednesday to form a left-center ruling coalition comprising the SDP, the Center Party, the Green League, the Left Alliance and the Swedish People's Party of Finland. It would have a majority of 117 seats in the 200-member parliament. The coalition would leave the conservative National Coalition Party, the populist Finns Party and the Christian Democratic Party in opposition. Rinne had pursued preparatory talks with the conservatives until Tuesday. National Coalition Party leader Petteri Orpo said his party was left out mainly due to its tough economic policy approach. Jussi Halla-aho, chairman of the populist Finns Party, said the new government would introduce "left-green" policies. Talking to the media, Rinne repeated the key goal of reducing inequality in Finland. He said the policy goals would be easier to reach with the Center Party than with the conservatives as the SDP's major coalition partner. After the new coalition plan was made public on Wednesday, observers noted that the talks could still fail. The Center Party has submitted some policies as a condition for joining the coalition. "CHANGE OF AN EPOCH" The prospect of a new coalition has been likened by local observers to a change of an era. A left-center government would greatly reduce the influence of the industries and businesses on Finnish politics. The newspaper Keskisuomalainen noted in a Wednesday afternoon editorial that the "working people" have ousted the "capital-owning circles" from the core of power where they have been since the late 1980s almost without interruption. With its willingness to join the coalition, the Center Party is seen as returning to its traditional ideological role as a defender of the less affluent. The pro-business line of the previous government, led by centrist leader Juha Sipila, has been seen as a reason for its major losses in the April election. The party was first heading into opposition, but on Tuesday the vast majority of the Center Party's decision makers endorsed joining the coalition. Teemu Luukka, a commentator for the Helsingin Sanomat newspaper, described as "ironic" that the Center Party would now be joining efforts to reverse the cutbacks in welfare and education. Rinne, who is likely to become prime minister, clarified on Wednesday that "Sipila's policies" would not continue. Talks about the new government's program started on Wednesday afternoon. Rinne said the aim was to conclude the negotiations in less than three weeks, by May 24. The new government could then be appointed at the beginning of June. Rinne was unwilling to predict how difficult the talks would be. "It is most important to aim at a joint solution in all situations," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:29:51|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held a telephone conversation with Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Wednesday. Xi said that China attaches great importance to developing the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and regards Saudi Arabia as an important cooperation partner in promoting the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Xi said that he and King Salman have in recent years successfully exchanged visits to each other's nation, which has guided the all-round and fast growth of China-Saudi Arabia ties. In February, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud visited China and attended the third meeting of the China-Saudi Arabia High-level Joint Committee, which yielded fruitful results and injected new impetus into bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various fields, Xi said. China appreciates Saudi Arabia's objective and fair stance on issues concerning China's core interests and major concerns. China firmly supports Saudi efforts to safeguard its national sovereignty, security and stability, and supports Saudi Arabia in promoting its economic transformation and achieving greater development, Xi said. Xi said that China is ready to work with Saudi Arabia to strengthen the synergy between the BRI and the Saudi Vision 2030, and enhance bilateral practical cooperation in energy and other fields. China appreciates the positive efforts made by Saudi Arabia to promote relations between China and Arab countries as well as Islamic countries. China welcomes and actively supports Saudi Arabia's hosting of the Group of 20 (G20) summit in 2020, Xi said, noting that China is ready to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Saudi Arabia and jointly help the G20 make greater contribution to upholding multilateralism, building an open world economy and improving global economic governance. For his part, Salman congratulated China for successfully holding the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, and said he believes that it will play an important role in promoting international development and cooperation. The two countries are committed to national development and world peace and stability. Saudi Arabia attaches great importance to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries and wishes China greater achievements in its development, Salman said. The Saudi king also said that Saudi Arabia is willing to strengthen exchanges with China at all levels and promote cooperation in various fields in a bid to better serve the two countries and peoples, and boost cooperation between East and West Asia. He said that Saudi Arabia is willing to continue to help improve the friendly and cooperative relations between China and Arab countries as well as the Islamic world. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:29:52|Editor: Liangyu Video Player Close Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi meets with a delegation of British officials led by Mark Sedwill, the cabinet secretary and national security advisor to the prime minister, in Beijing, capital of China, May 8, 2019. (Xinhua/Shen Hong) BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday met with a delegation of British officials led by Mark Sedwill, the cabinet secretary and national security advisor to the prime minister. Wang said China is willing to work with the British side to enhance communication and exchanges, strengthen political mutual trust and deepen pragmatic cooperation, and welcomes Britain's more active participation in the Belt and Road cooperation, so as to inject new impetus to the "golden era" of bilateral relations. Sedwill said Britain supports the Belt and Road Initiative and is willing to actively participate in the Belt and Road cooperation while hoping that China can play a more important role in the global economic system. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:40:00|Editor: yan Video Player Close LUSAKA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Wang Junqi is a Chinese medical doctor, who is part of the 20th Chinese Medical Team that has been in Zambia since May last year. After almost one year of working at the Levy Mwanawasa University Teaching Hospital (China-Zambia Friendship Hospital) in Lusaka, the Zambian capital, the 34-year-old doctor says he will always cherish the time he spent working in the southern African nation with various patients. Wang, a specialist in Ear, Nose and Throat, says he committed himself to ensure that he delivers the best services to his patients during his tour of duty. "I regarded all my patients as my friends who needed my help and if I had a chance I had to give them my best therapy," he told Xinhua in an interview. The youngest member of the medical team, which is expected to return to China next month, said he attended to more than 2,300 patients and conducted over 130 operations. He said he tried to do his best in providing health care services to his patients as a Chinese doctor, and worked to maintain the strong relationship that has existed between the two countries in the medical field for the past 41 years. According to him, he created warm and cordial relations with local workers at the hospital who helped him in his work and that he ensured that he imparted his expertise to them. Even as he gets back to China, he says his friendship with his Zambian workmate will not end as they intend to continue coordinating through various social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Wechat. Among some of the complicated cases he worked on included removing coin from child as well as fish bones from patients. His workmates are full of praise for his work and the knowledge he has imparted on them in the field of ear, nose and throat surgeries. Sabina Chanda, who has worked at the Ear, Nose and Throat Department since January this year, praised the Chinese doctor over his expertise as he conducted so many procedures and helped so many patients. She said the hospital used to refer patients with complicated problems to other hospitals for surgeries but indicated that this ended following the arrival of the Chinese who conducted all surgeries. She further thanked him for imparting his skills on her as well as her colleagues, adding that they are now able to diagnose and do surgeries on patients with ear, nose or throat problems. "We hope the Chinese government will bring someone who is like him or they should bring him back again because the one year he has been here is too short. We want him to spend some more time here so that he can teach other Zambian doctors," she said. Ruth Phiri, who has worked at the hospital for the past four years, also had kind words for the Chinese doctor, whom she described as "a good and experienced doctor". She said many patients from different parts of the country have been helped by him, adding that his services will be missed. "Patients are happy because he is a blessing to us. We have learnt a lot from him because before we were not able to do nose, ear and throat treatment and remove things but now we are able to do that," she said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:40:04|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close U.S. President Donald Trump leaves the White House in Washington D.C., the United States, on May 8, 2019. U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday asserted executive privilege on the Mueller report, protecting the Department of Justice from Congressional subpoenas. (Xinhua/Ting Shen) WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday asserted executive privilege on the Mueller report, protecting the Department of Justice from Congressional subpoenas. Trump had "asserted executive privilege over the entirety of the subpoenaed materials," Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd wrote in a letter to Congress. "As we have repeatedly explained, the attorney general could not comply with your subpoena in its current form without violating the law, court rules, and court orders, and without threatening the independence of the Department of Justice's prosecutorial functions," Boyd said. "Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the attorney general's request, the president has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege," White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said in a statement Wednesday, referring to the House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler. The move from the executive branch comes as the House Judiciary Committee is preparing for a vote on whether to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for defying a Congressional subpoena by refusing to turn over the complete version of the Mueller report. Nadler said to U.S. media that the country faced "a constitutional crisis" because "the president is disobeying the law, is refusing all information to Congress." Executive privilege is the power of the U.S. president and other members of the executive branch to resist certain subpoenas from the judicial and legislative branches. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:45:09|Editor: yan Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopia Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on Wednesday disclosed that it has secured the release of 1,400 Ethiopian nationals who were imprisoned in Saudi Arabia. In a press statement, MoFA said the 1,400 Ethiopians were released from Saudi prisons after discussions between Ethiopian and Saudi authorities. The statement said the first 300 released Ethiopians will be flown back to Ethiopia on Thursday morning with the rest 1,100 expected to return home in the coming few days. The MoFA statement didn't mention the type of crimes the 1,400 Ethiopians were serving prison sentences for. However, in recent years Saudi Arabia has arrested thousands of Ethiopians accused of various crimes ranging from illegal entry to brewing illicit alcoholic drinks. It is estimated every year thousands of Ethiopians enter Saudi Arabia illegally looking for better economic opportunities. After illegally entering Saudi Arabia, the Ethiopians are often employed in informal economic sectors without having valid residence permits. Meanwhile, the East African country also on Wednesday disclosed the repatriation of some 500 nationals from Kenya in a few days period. The 500 Ethiopians had been serving prison sentences in Kenya after being convicted of illegal entry, state media outlet Ethiopia Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) reported on Wednesday. The 500 Ethiopian nationals were returned home after discussions between the Ethiopian and Kenyan governments to return all Ethiopians detained in Kenya, it was noted. The 500 Ethiopian nationals had initially planned to use Kenya as a transit point en route to their final destination, South Africa. Human traffickers reportedly use various countries as transit points to smuggle Ethiopians to South Africa. According to the Ethiopia Ministry of Foreign Affairs, human traffickers charge an average of 3,500 to 4,000 U.S. dollars to smuggle a single individual from Ethiopia to South Africa. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:50:17|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday called for maintenance and implementation of the Iran nuclear deal, urging relevant parties to exercise restraint and strengthen dialogue to avoid further escalation of tensions. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang made the remarks after Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced on Wednesday the decision to suspend implementing some of its commitments under the deal, the Iran Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), given the United States' previous unilateral withdrawal from it. Geng said China appreciates Iran's strict fulfillment of its obligations under the deal so far and firmly opposes unilateral sanctions and the so-called "long-arm jurisdiction imposed by the U.S. on Iran." The Chinese side regrets that the U.S. relevant moves have further aggravated tensions over the Iran nuclear issue, Geng said. "The deal should be fully and effectively implemented," Geng said, calling the multilateral agreement ratified by the United Nations Security Council "crucial to the international nuclear non-proliferation regime as well as peace and stability of the Middle East." It is the common responsibility of all relevant parties to maintain and implement the deal, the spokesperson said. "We call on relevant parties to exercise restraint and strengthen dialogue, to avoid escalating tensions." China will keep in contact with relevant parties and continue to make efforts for maintaining and implementing the deal, and at the same time firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, Geng added. After coordination at Eurojust, Belgian and French authorities today dismantled a criminal network that committed large-scale fraud in the purchase of second-hand luxury cars. Eurojust, the EU's Judicial Cooperation Unit, served as a platform to exchange information and contacts between the national authorities involved, leading to over 30 arrests. The criminal network members presented themselves to the owners of the cars, offered for sale on a Belgian website, as potential buyers. They conned more than 600 owners into supposedly selling their vehicles to them, when, in reality they only made fake down payments. The members of the criminal network also occasionally used violence or the threat of violence to gain possession of cars for alleged test drives, after which the vehicles were never returned to the owners. Upon the request of the Belgian Desk at Eurojust, one coordination meeting was held at Eurojust to actively support cooperation between the Belgian and French authorities and facilitate the coordination of the cross-border operations. In a massive operation carried out this morning, the Belgian judicial and law enforcement authorities performed approximately two hundred simultaneous searches across Belgium. The French Gendarmerie deployed forces at seven locations near the Belgian frontier. Following today's successful action, the criminals, who are accused of internet fraud and participation in a criminal organisation, were brought to the investigative judge in Brussels for further measures. Photo Shutterstock Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-08 23:55:24|Editor: yan Video Player Close ADDIS ABABA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Amid the commemoration of the UN Global Road Safety Week, African countries on Wednesday were urged to reduce by half the rate of road traffic accident-induced deaths and injuries to achieve the global target. The call was made by the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) on the margins of the 5th UN Global Road Safety Week, which is being commemorated from May 6 to 12 under the theme "Leadership for Road Safety." The ECA, which stressed that "strong leadership is needed at national and local levels if Africa and the rest of the world to attain road safety," said in a statement on Wednesday that "halving the number of global deaths and injuries will help countries achieve the sustainable development goals." According to the ECA, Goal 3.6 of the global Agenda of the SDGs calls on governments to take new steps to reduce road traffic fatalities. "Addressing these issues requires strong leadership, which is why the theme of the 2019 UN Road Safety Week, Leadership for Road Safety, is apt," the statement quoted Vera Songwe, Executive Secretary of the ECA, as saying. The UN Global Road Safety Week campaign mainly seeks to halve the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents by 2020. The campaign, which envisaged to stabilize and reduce the forecast level of road traffic deaths around the world, falls under the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011 to 2020 that was officially proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in March 2010, it was noted. According to the ECA, Decade of Action seeks to prevent road traffic deaths and injuries, which experts project will take the lives of 1.9 million people annually by 2020. The plan, which outlined steps towards improving the safety of roads and vehicles, also aims to enhance emergency services, and enhancing road safety management. It also calls for increased legislation and enforcement on speeding. Noting that the risk of a road traffic death remains three times higher in low-income countries than in high-income countries, ECA indicated that Africa accounts for the highest rate of road traffic deaths at 26.6 per 100,000 people. On Monday, the ECA chief also stressed that many of African countries "have inadequate institutional arrangements, finance, and data to deal with the carnage on our roads." "It is unacceptable that the risk of death from road traffic accidents in Africa is as high as 26.6 per 100,000 as compared to 17.0 in South-East Asia and 9.3 in Europe," Songwe said. "These are staggering figures, and the goal of the UN Global Road Safety Week is to generate a demand from the public for stronger leadership for road safety worldwide," she added. Out of the total 1.3 million road traffic fatalities that occurred every year globally, more than half are accounted in urban areas, according to figures from the ECA. Africa, having only 2 percent of the world's registered vehicles, accounts for a disproportionate 16 percent of the world's road traffic deaths. Quality of road infrastructure, level of law enforcement, safety of vehicles, road user behaviors and post-crash care are said to be among the issues that affect the road safety situation in Africa and beyond. Road traffic fatalities are estimated to be the fourth leading cause of death of persons aged 5 through 44 years globally including the African continent, according to the ECA. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:00:28|Editor: xuxin Video Player Close An Afghan security force member stands on a military vehicle at the site of an attack in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 8, 2019. Eleven people, including six assailants, were killed and 24 civilians wounded after Taliban suicide bombers attacked a U.S.-funded aid agency in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Rahmat Alizadah) KABUL, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Eleven people, including six assailants, were killed and 24 civilians wounded after Taliban suicide bombers attacked a U.S.-funded aid agency in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Wednesday. Those among the killed were four civilians, the Ministry of Interior Affairs said in a statement. The attack started at midday when a Taliban suicide bomber rammed a car bomb into the gate of Counter Part International in Shahr-e-Naw, a business district in central Kabul. Five gunmen were killed inside the agency's premise during a counter-attack conducted by Afghan elite police forces. The security forces evacuated safely about 200 people from the targeted building and nearby offices, the statement said. The blast caused massive destruction. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, UN mission in the country and ordinary Afghans strongly condemned the attack which occurred in the third day of Muslim's fasting month of Ramadan. The Taliban militants have claimed the attack shortly after the deadly explosion. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:00:30|Editor: yan Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to closely coordinate with Pakistan's law enforcement department to counter illegal cross-national matchmaking, the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad said on Wednesday. The embassy issued the statement after a delegation from the Crime Investigation Department of the Chinese Public Security Ministry visited Pakistan and interacted with Pakistan's Interior Ministry, Foreign Ministry and Islamabad police department. The delegation told the Pakistani departments that China has found clues of some illegal cross-national matchmaking centers, but no evidence was found over alleged human trafficking, sales of human organs and prostitution. Last month, the embassy said in a statement that "China is cooperating with Pakistani law enforcement agencies to crack down on illegal matchmaking centers" and "Chinese laws and regulations strictly prohibit cross-national matchmaking centers. No individual is allowed to engage in any form of such activity by deception or for profit." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:00:31|Editor: yan Video Player Close BERLIN, May 8 (Xinhua) -- German industrial conglomerate Siemens' turnover increased by 4 percent to 20.9 billion euros (23.4 billion U.S. dollars) in the second quarter (Q2) of fiscal 2019, the company announced on Wednesday. "We delivered on our promises again this quarter, and even exceeded expectations in many areas," commented Chief Executive Office (CEO) Joe Kaeser, adding that the company would now enter into a "new era to become an even stronger and more focused Siemens." Siemens is currently planning a large-scale company restructuring and is seeking to spin off its power plant division. It is aiming to create a "new major player on the energy market" with a business volume of 30 billion euros, the company announced on Tuesday. The restructured company is set to encompass Siemens' oil and gas business as well as conventional power generation and transmission. In addition, Siemens intends to transfer its majority stake in the renewable energy company Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy to the new company. "Being independent will enable us to more effectively leverage our position of strength to further support our customers in rapidly changing energy markets," commented Lisa Davis, CEO of Siemens' Gas and Power Division, at the presentation of Siemens' spin-off plans on Tuesday. The initial public offering (IPO) of the new company is scheduled to take place by September 2020. For the rest of fiscal year 2019, Siemens predicts a "continued favorable" market environment with "limited risks related to geopolitical uncertainties." The company confirmed its business expectations and is anticipating "moderate growth" in revenues. New orders at Siemens increased by 6 percent to 23.6 billion euros, which was attributable to a "sharp growth" of the company's Mobility Division. It recorded a "higher volume from large orders." The company's industrial profits rose 7 percent to 2.4 billion euros in Q1. The Digital Factory and Siemens Healthineers Divisions made the largest contribution to the company's operating profits. Investors on the stock market reacted positively to the publication of Siemens' figures. Share prices temporarily increased by over 5 percent and were the clear winner in the German stock index DAX on Wednesday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:10:36|Editor: yan Video Player Close VILNIUS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Lithuania's ruling Farmers and Greens Union (LVZS) leader Ramunas Karbauskis said on Wednesday he had addressed one of country's presidential candidates to quit the presidential race in favor of Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis. "If this person's decision (to withdraw from presidential race) will help decide for a few hundred of people, probably we will be able to ensure the continuity of our work and our reforms," Karbauskis was quoted as saying by local media. Karbauskis on Wednesday cast his ballot in the country's presidential election and two referendums in advance at Kaunas city municipality, where he said he voted for Skvernelis, nominated by LVZS. Last week, Karbauskis stated that his party may quit the ruling coalition if Skvernelis does not make into second round of presidential election and if the party loses the European Parliament elections later this month. Initially not naming the candidate whom he addressed, Karbauskis later confirmed that he had discussed possible removal from presidential rally with Naglis Puteikis, one of 9 candidates. "I have his (Puteikis') permission to confirm it," Karbauskis was quoted as saying by local news website Delfi.lt. Karbauskis explained that his intention was "not to split" voters' support for Skvernelis. Chairman of the Lithuanian Centre Party and its presidential nominee Puteikis declared in a separate statement on Wednesday that he was considering to withdraw from the race and urged voters to cast ballots not for him but against economist Gitanas Nauseda. According to the latest survey conducted by pollster Spinter Tyrimai on April 20-29 and published by Delfi.lt, MP, former Finance Minister Ingrida Simonyte and economist Nauseda lead the rally with respectively 26.2 percent and 24.6 percent of voters' support. Incumbent PM and presidential candidate Skvernelis held third place with 16.6 percent support. Puteikis was supported by a marginal 1.5 percent voters' share, the survey showed. Meanwhile, Lithuania's Central Electoral Commission (VRK) stated that formally candidates can no longer withdraw their candidacies. "Under the Law on Presidential Elections, every presidential candidate in Lithuania has the right to withdraw their application documents no later than 35 days until the election day. Now, there is no way back. The names of candidates are already on ballot-papers, voters are already voting," VRK chairwoman Laura Matjosaityte was quoted as saying by news agency Elta. The scheduled presidential elections and two referendums in Lithuania will be held on May 12, with the second round of the presidential elections scheduled for May 26 if necessary. On May 26, Lithuania also holds its elections to the European Parliament. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:20:55|Editor: yan Video Player Close LONDON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- An official report said here Wednesday that about a third of all secondary school staff in London are from overseas, revealing a new sign that migration plays a vital role in British education. The British Office for National Statistics (ONS) said that 32 percent of secondary schools in the British capital were born outside Britain and a quarter of primary teachers were also from overseas. When support workers, assistants, managers and others were taken into account, the overall foreign contingent of London schools amounted to 31 percent of the total staff numbers, the report said. The report, which came in a special analysis produced by the ONS on the impact of migration in schools across the country, was released at a time when the country has been long locked in a Brexit deadlock, which partly deals with foreign immigrants. "International migration contributes to the workforce in schools, with migrants workforce in schools, with migrants working in a range of teaching, managerial and support roles within the education sector," the report said. "London has a much higher proportion of staff born outside the UK than other regions of England," it said. In London, 15 percent of pupils were born abroad and 58 percent of new births are to mothers who have moved from overseas, the report added. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:36:05|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China will move faster to boost innovation in its national economic and technological development zones in terms of openness, technology and institution building to raise the quality of economic growth and cultivate new pacesetters in the reform and opening up. The decision was made at a State Council executive meeting chaired by Premier Li Keqiang. The Chinese government puts high importance on the innovation-driven development of the national economic and technological development zones. Premier Li Keqiang required that the demonstrative role of the national economic development zones be fully harnessed for better use of foreign investment and relevant policies consistent with law be rolled out to make these zones pacesetters in attracting foreign investment. Establishing national economic and technological development zones was a major strategic decision China made in the 1980s as part of efforts for wider opening up. With the first zone opened in 1984, 219 such zones have been established so far, focusing on advanced manufacturing and producer services to drive China's urbanization through global cooperation and industrialization. These economic development zones contribute around 10 percent to the national GDP and some 20 percent to the country's foreign trade and foreign investment. "There is still much untapped potential in these national zones. We must see that their industrial and institutional advantages formed over the years are fully leveraged to nurture new drivers of economic growth." Li said. The Wednesday meeting identified several key measures to boost the development of these national zones. The meeting called for steps to reform and innovate the operation and management model in these zones to improve the business environment. The zones will be supported to implement a simpler approval process for investment projects and the practice of pre-commitment of compliance. Performance in attracting investment will be included as part of the assessment and incentive system in the national zones. Entrepreneurs and innovators working in the zones will enjoy convenience and support in household registration, border entry and exit, children's schooling, housing and venture investment. "Local governments must foster a more enabling business environment in the national economic development zones, and these zones should be in the forefront of government efforts in regulatory streamlining and effective oversight," Li said. The meeting called on the national zones to take the lead in fully implementing national policies on promoting technological innovation. The government will scale up support for technological innovation in these zones, including constructing large national science infrastructure and national science and technology innovation bases. More support will be given to talent training bases jointly run by these national zones and vocational schools. "We must embrace institutional innovation to scale up policy support for innovation in science and technology. This will help ensure that these national zones lead the way in technological innovations across the country," Li said. The opening up of these zones will be bolstered by attracting private and foreign investors to develop and run industrial parks with distinctive features in them. Organizations, companies and investors from Hong Kong and Macao and foreign countries will be encouraged to participate in the running of international cooperation parks in these zones. Comprehensive bonded zones will be set up. The government will support pilot programs to facilitate foreign exchange settlement and payments of revenues under the capital account in these national zones where conditions exist. Attendees of the meeting also decided to promote industrial upgrading in these national zones, including favoring them when deploying key national industrial projects. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:36:06|Editor: yan Video Player Close BRUSSELS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The European Commission on Wednesday released the first results of an initiative launched last year to support regions undergoing industrial transition. A total of 10 European Union (EU) regions and two member states have applied for support through the program, including Cantabria (Spain), Center-Val de Loire (France), Greater Est (France), Greater Manchester (United Kingdom), Hauts-de-France (France), East-North Finland (Finland), North-Middle Sweden (Sweden), Piedmont (Italy), Saxony (Germany), Wallonia (Belgium), as well as Lithuania and Slovenia. The first results of this initiative offer support and expertise on 12 pilot schemes to help them overcome specific obstacles to industrial transition. Under the initiative, all recipients will have their individual pilot schemes, which will each receive a grant of 300,000 euros (335,573 U.S. dollars). "Based on the first results of this initiative, I invite all regions to replicate the experience in the future. They should identify weaknesses to address and assets to build on to haul themselves up the value chain in our globalized economy," said Corina Cretu, Commissioner for Regional Policy. According to the commissioner, EU will earmark more than 90 billion euros of cohesion funding for research, innovation and small and medium businesses in the next long-term EU budget. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:36:08|Editor: yan Video Player Close NAIROBI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Countries from the Horn of African region on Wednesday pledged support for regulated and orderly migration in order to sustain peace, civil order and development. Fathia Alwan, director of health and social development division at the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), said that regulated migration will have profound economic and social benefits. "The countries can benefit from migration since it contributes to economic development in both sending and receiving countries," said Alwan during the opening of an international conference on forced displacement and mixed migration in Nairobi. She said that migration in the region has been fueled by political, socioeconomic and environmental factors, hence the need for governments to pay attention to those dynamics. Alwan urged enactment of sound legal frameworks and policies to protect and empower vulnerable populations as well as to enhance the development of the affected populations. "It is time we developed reliable data through a thorough scientific research to help scale up responses to existing needs to the region," said Alwan. The International Labor Organization (ILO) 2017 report on labor migration in Africa indicates that the IGAD region had a migrant population of over 2.8 million people. By December 2018, IGAD region had over 12 million displaced populations comprising of approximately 9.2 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) and 3.7 million refugees. Alwan urged universities in the region to share their research findings on migration and displacement with policy makers to help inform appropriate interventions. "We have to remember that nobody leaves their home and family for certain reasons that will not disappear soon, hence the need to strive through research to identify the reasons and collectively seek durable solutions for the affected populations," said Alwan. She urged strengthening of the consortium of IGAD universities and research institutions to facilitate joint research and publications in migration management and social development. Joanna de Berry, World Bank regional coordinator for forced displacement, said the lender is scaling up support for management of migration in the Horn of Africa. "We have embarked on a collaboration with the regional governments to bring new approaches that includes coping mechanisms and climate change resilience," said de Berry. She said that lending support to migrants to become self-reliant is a priority for the World Bank. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 00:41:12|Editor: yan Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that General Motors (GM), whose subsidies he once threatened to revoke, will sell its Lordstown plant in Ohio and build electric trucks there. Trump said in a tweet that he had spoken with GM CEO Mary Barra, who told him that the automaker "will be selling their beautiful Lordstown Plant to Workhorse, where they plan to build Electric Trucks." Workhorse Group Inc. is a manufacturing company based in Cincinnati, Ohio, which is focused on building electrically powered delivery and utility vehicles. GM, according to Trump, will be spending 700 million U.S. dollars in Ohio in three separate locations, creating additional 450 jobs. "I have been working nicely with GM to get this done," the president said. GM announced on Nov. 26 that it will halt production in five North American plants, including the Lordstown plant, and cut over 14,000 jobs in 2019. Trump took to Twitter one day after the announcement was made, saying that he was "very disappointed with General Motors and their CEO," and that he was "looking at" cutting all subsidies GM receives, including for electric cars. U.S. media assumed at the time that the president was probably referring to the 7,500-U.S.-dollar tax breaks the U.S. federal government granted to consumers buying electric vehicles. CNN cited people familiar with the matter as saying the company was unaware of other federal incentives it was receiving beyond that. Trump didn't mention in the Wednesday tweet what he would do with the subsidies. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:06:33|Editor: yan Video Player Close LONDON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- A researcher at the University of Cambridge has proposed a new type of virtual money, which is supposed to be more secure and efficient through a unique mechanism, the university said on Wednesday. Dubbed "S-money", the new framework could ensure completely unforgeable and secure authentication, and allow faster and more flexible responses than any existing financial technology by harnessing the combined power of quantum theory and relativity, according to the university. The framework, developed by Professor Adrian Kent from the university, can be thought of as secure virtual tokens generated by communications between various points on a financial network, which respond flexibly to real-time data across the world and "materialize" so that they can be used at the optimal place and time. It allows users to respond to events faster than familiar types of money, both physical and digital, which follow definite paths through space. "It's a slightly different way of thinking about money: instead of something that we hold in our hands or in our bank accounts, money could be thought of as something that you need to get to a certain point in space and time, in response to data that is coming from lots of other points in space and time," said Kent. Researchers aim to begin testing the practicality of the framework on a small scale later this year. "S-money" requires very fast computations, but may be feasible with current computing technology, according to the university. The study has been published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society A. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:06:35|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close Photo taken on May 8, 2019 shows the broken passenger plane of the Biman Bangladesh airlines at the Yangon International Airport in Yangon, Myanmar. Some 18 people including five crew members were injured after a passenger plane of the Biman Bangladesh airlines skidded off the runway at Myanmar's Yangon International Airport (YIA) on Wednesday, said the Department of Civil Aviation Myanmar. (Xinhua/Department of Civil Aviation Myanmar) YANGON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Some 18 people including five crew members were injured after a passenger plane of the Biman Bangladesh airlines skidded off the runway at Myanmar's Yangon International Airport (YIA) on Wednesday, said the Department of Civil Aviation Myanmar. The Biman Flight No. BG-60 from Dhaka to Yangon carrying 28 passengers and six crew members skidded off the runway at around 6:50 p.m. local time (1220 GMT). "At least 16 people including a pilot with head injury have been sent to the North Okkalapa General Hospital for treatment so far," Zwe Yan Naing, chairman of Shweyaung Thamaing, Emergency Rescue and Social Support Organization, told Xinhua earlier. The Bombardier Dash 8 aircraft veered off the runway during the landing attempt due to heavy rains and poor visibility, said a statement from the Yangon Aerodrome Company Limited, the operator of the YIA. The runway reopened two hours after the accident and an investigation was underway. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:06:38|Editor: yan Video Player Close by Mao Pengfei, Nguon Sovan PHNOM PENH, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China has been playing a greater role in safeguarding and developing Cambodia's cultural heritage, Apsara National Authority's spokesman Long Kosal said. Apsara National Authority is the management authority responsible for protecting and preserving the Historic Site of Angkor, a world heritage site, located in northwest Cambodia's Siem Reap province. In a recent interview with Xinhua, Kosal said China has helped restore ruined temples in the complex of Angkor since 1997 by renovating the Chau Say Tevoda temple and the Ta Keo temple. The work on Chau Say Tevoda was concluded in 2008 and that on Ta Keo, which began in late 2010, was finished in 2018, he said. "We're very satisfied with the results of renovation work conducted by the Chinese experts on the two temples," said Kosal, who is also the director of Apsara National Authority's communications department. "Chinese experts' skills and expertise in renovating the two temples are very high and the results of their renovation work have been highly evaluated by the ICC-Angkor's technical committee," he said. The ICC-Angkor stands for International Coordinating Committee for the Safeguarding and Development of the Historic Site of Angkor. "The Chinese experts receive admiration not only from the archaeologists, but also from local and foreign tourists for their excellent work in restoring the two temples to their original shapes," he said. Kosal said he himself was also impressed with the Chinese experts' high skills and expertise in restoring the temples to their previous forms. The spokesman said after decades of participation in the protection of Angkor, it was no doubt that the Chinese experts have grown up from followers into team leaders in the international arena of cultural heritage protection. "I think that China has been playing a bigger role in safeguarding and developing cultural heritage of humanity in Cambodia and other countries," he said. Kosal said Cambodia has three world heritage sites, namely the Historic Site of Angkor, the Preah Vihear Temple, and the Sambor Prei Kuk Archeological Site, and China has been involved in the restoration work on ruined temples in two sites. "China has helped protect ancient temples in the Angkor and has also expanded her assistance to the Preah Vihear Temple," he said, adding that China is currently the co-chair of the ICC-Preah Vihear. "This is a practical example of China's active support for the protection of world heritage sites," he said. NEW RENOVATION PROJECT UNDER CHINA'S AID TO START Kosal said last year, Cambodia entrusted China to renovate the Royal Palace of Angkor Thom in the Angkor complex, and the 11-year renovation work was expected to begin soon. "We entrusted China to restore the former Royal Palace of Angkor Thom because we recognized China's role, effort, commitment and attention to safeguarding and developing the Historic Site of Angkor," he said. "We're totally confident in the Chinese experts' skills and expertise." The spokesman said the renovation work on ancient temples is not like the renovation of modern structures. It needs high skills, expertise and commitment, and the Chinese experts are qualified enough to achieve this important mission. "This project will contribute further to expanding long-standing cultural relations between our two countries," he said. "We hope that the Chinese experts will bring this ruined Royal Palace of Angkor Thom back to its previous glory." CHINA'S AID VITAL TO CAPACITY BUILDING FOR CAMBODIA Kosal said China's aid has not only greatly contributed to preserving ancient temples, but also helped train Cambodian experts on renovation and preservation work. "Through these projects, our experts' capacity has been improved and some have become project leaders, technicians and consultants," he said. "This results from fruitful cooperation between Cambodia and China." According to the spokesman, local experts have also learned Chinese language, taught by teachers sent from the Confucius Institute. Meanwhile, Kosal praised some Chinese archeological experts who have helped save Cambodia's ancient temples, saying that their devotion to the cause of cultural heritage protection is "highly appreciated and honored." Sharing his view about more young Chinese experts in temple renovation projects, he said young Chinese experts are also necessary to ensure work sustainability for a long run. "Currently, technology has also played an important role in preserving ancient temples, so younger generation experts may bring new ideas, visions and technology in assisting to renovate and to preserve ancient temples," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:16:46|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday said it is willing to strengthen communication with the international community to push for a political solution to the Venezuela issue. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang made the remarks at a press briefing when responding to a reporter's question on reports that European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the International Contact Group on Venezuela decided to establish contact with the Lima Group, the Caribbean Community, Cuba, China and Russia to create a favorable environment for resolving the political crisis in Venezuela. On the Venezuela issue, China is committed to upholding the United Nations Charter and the basic norms governing international relations, Geng said, adding the Chinese side holds that the Venezuela issue should be solved through inclusive political dialogue and consultation within the framework of the Constitution by the Venezuelan government and the opposition, and opposes external intervention and unilateral sanctions. Geng said China and the EU as well as many other countries have important consensus on the Venezuela issue, and they all stress seeking a political solution featuring inclusive dialogue, oppose military intervention and are reluctant to see the situation in Venezuela spiral out of control and affect regional peace and stability. China stands ready to strengthen communication with the international community including the EU, jointly play a constructive role and push for a political solution to the Venezuela issue, said the spokesperson. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:16:48|Editor: yan Video Player Close HONG KONG, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government on Wednesday refuted an European Union (EU) report by reiterating that human rights and freedom in Hong Kong are fully protected by law and foreign institutions should not interfere in the internal affairs of the HKSAR. "Human rights and freedom in Hong Kong, including freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of association, the right to vote and the right to stand for election, etc. are fully protected by the Basic Law, the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance and other legislation. The HKSAR government attaches great importance to them and is determined to safeguard them," an HKSAR government spokesman said. "At the same time, the HKSAR government has a duty to implement and uphold the Basic Law," the spokesman said, adding that "the Basic Law clearly stipulates that the HKSAR is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Any suggestion for 'Hong Kong's independence' is a blatant violation of the Basic Law and a direct affront to the national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the PRC." "'Hong Kong's independence' runs counter to the successful implementation of 'one country, two systems' and undermines the HKSAR's constitutional and legal foundations as enshrined in the Basic Law. Relevant international human rights convention and court cases have clearly pointed out that freedom of speech is not absolute." For other issues mentioned in the annual report, including the prohibition of operation of the Hong Kong National Party, a visa application case and the co-location arrangement of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link, the spokesman emphasized that the HKSAR government "has all along been handling Hong Kong affairs strictly in accordance with the 'one country, two systems' principle, the Basic Law and the laws of Hong Kong." "The HKSAR government reiterates that foreign institutions should not interfere in any form in the internal affairs of the HKSAR," the spokesman said. The Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in HKSAR also rejected the report on Wednesday. Since Hong Kong's return to the motherland, the principles of "one country, two systems," "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" with a high degree of autonomy have been successfully implemented, and Hong Kong residents have been enjoying unprecedented rights and freedom in accordance with law, the spokesperson said, adding that this is a fact that can not be denied by anyone who views the issue without bias. Advocacy of "Hong Kong independence" seriously violated China's Constitution, the Basic Law and related laws of the HKSAR, gravely undermined China's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, and crossed the bottom line of freedom of speech and association, the spokesperson said, adding that the central government as well as the HKSAR government have zero tolerance for "Hong Kong independence." The EU report ignored the truth and violated mainstream public opinion in Hong Kong by making improper comments on "one country, two systems" and interfering in Hong Kong's internal affairs under the disguise of so-called human rights and freedom, the spokesperson said. "We urge the EU to respect China's sovereignty, the HKSAR government's administration in accordance with law and the HKSAR's rule of law, and to stop interfering in Hong Kong's affairs and China's domestic affairs." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:16:49|Editor: yan Video Player Close HOUSTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) is committed to strengthen international technology interchange and collaboration to be more competitive in the global market, a Chinese energy industry insider said Tuesday in Houston, Texas, the United States. Zhou Jianliang, deputy general manager of CNOOC Sci&Tech Development Dept., made the remarks at the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) that kicked off in Houston on Monday. Interviewed by Xinhua, Zhou said the core competitiveness of energy companies mainly depends on resources, technology and market with technology as the most important aspect. "No matter innovation or independent R&D, all technologies need to be integrated so that we can achieve what others cannot or perform better than others," he said. Aiming to be one of the world's top energy enterprises, CNOOC attaches great importance to international interchange and collaboration. "Through cooperation projects, we can develop oil and gas fields in China and abroad, and at the same time export our advanced technologies to the world," Zhou noted. OTC, the world's largest annual oil and gas trade show, is held in Houston from Monday through Thursday. Chinese participants in the event include state-run leading companies as well as private enterprises from across the country. The technological program of the four-day event includes more than 80 technical sessions, industry breakfasts and themed luncheons covering a wide range of topics. This year's new program, Around the World Series, features global industry leaders from Australia, Canada, France, Ghana, Guyana, Israel, Mexico, Norway, and Britain to discuss new licensing and business opportunities, as well as recently introduced technologies. Founded in 1969, OTC provides a platform for energy professionals to exchange thoughts to advance scientific and technological knowledge on offshore resources and environmental matters. CNOOC is the largest offshore oil and gas producer in China. The five main business segments of the company are oil & gas exploration and development, engineering and technical services, refining and marketing, natural gas and power generation and financial services. The company was ranked 87th in 2018 Fortune Global 500 and 31th in Petroleum Intelligence Weekly's World's Top 50 Oil Companies. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:21:52|Editor: yan Video Player Close LONDON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The British Green Party on Wednesday launched its European Parliament elections campaign while promising to be "tough on Brexit." Following their gains in last week's local polls in Britain, the leaders of the Green Party urged voters to say "Yes to Europe, No to climate change." They vowed to campaign for another referendum on Brexit, which they called "an unforgivable act of intergenerational betrayal." The Greens gained 185 seats in the council elections on May 3 amid widespread anger at the main political parties. The Brexit Party and Change UK are among the other independent political groups in the UK to take part in the European Parliament elections, which will kick off on May 23. David Lidington, British Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy, said Tuesday that the UK will have to hold European elections, despite hopes from the British government a Brexit deal would be done by then. May said the UK would not have to take part if MPs agreed a Brexit plan first. Lidington said that "regrettably", it is "not going to be possible to finish that process" before the date the UK legally has to take part. He said the British government would try to make the delay "as short as possible". The UK was originally due to leave the European Union on March 29, but as no deal was agreed by the British Parliament, the European Union extended the deadline to Oct. 31. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 01:21:53|Editor: yan Video Player Close ANKARA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Turkey's main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) on Wednesday appealed to the Supreme Election Council (YSK) for cancelling the results of last year's presidential and parliamentary elections along with the March 31 local polls across all Istanbul districts. "If the YSK annuls the Istanbul Metropolitan Mayoral Elections, then you also have to annul the local elections in all 39 districts in Istanbul as well as June 24 Parliamentary and Presidential Elections in 2018," Muharrem Erkek, CHP deputy chairman, told reporters after submitting the appeal. "The election body should also revoke the mandate of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan because the same laws, regulations and same polling station officials were applied in both elections," he said. The YSK on Monday cancelled the result of Istanbul local elections on the request of the ruling party. The main opposition CHP won control of the capital Ankara and Istanbul, the country's biggest city, in nationwide local elections on March 31. The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has called for the results in Istanbul to be annulled, citing "irregularities in the appointment of polling station officials". The CHP filled its appeal on the grounds that the same procedure for the appointment of polling station officials was practiced in 2018 elections. The initial results by the YSK have shown that the difference between candidates from CHP and AKP is around 13,000 votes in Istanbul. The renewed mayoral election will be held on June 23. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 02:12:05|Editor: yan Video Player Close TASHKENT, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Uzbekistan's Justice Ministry on Wednesday published a list of the organizations and online resources that are recognized by the country's Supreme Court as being extremist and prohibited in the Central Asian nation. According to the Supreme Court's decision on March 12, dozens of internet sites, online information profiles, channels and pages on social networks such as Facebook and YouTube and Telegram pages were recognized as having extremist and terrorist materials, a ministry statement said. The list, published in the country for the first time, contains 40 names of internet resources and pages in social networks in the Uzbek language. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 03:02:31|Editor: yan Video Player Close RIGA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Latvia's opposition centrist Union of Greens and Farmers have picked their candidate for this year's presidential election, the political alliance's chairman Armands Krauze announced on Wednesday. Speaking on behalf of his Latvian Farmers' Union, the politician said his party would nominate Ombudsman Juris Jansons for the presidency and that Jansons has already accepted the nomination. Although the Green Party, which is the other partner in the Union of Greens and Farmers, is yet to formally announce its decision, Jansons is already seen as the candidate of the whole alliance, which used to lead Latvia's previous government coalition but ended up in opposition after last election. The announcement comes a day after Latvia's incumbent President Raimonds Vejonis, whom the Green Party had endorsed for reelection, said he would not seek a second term. Latvia's current center-right government coalition, meanwhile, is set to nominate European Court of Justice judge Egils Levits for Latvia's next president. In Latvia's last presidential election, which took place in June 2015, Vejonis beat rival contender Levits, but this time Levits' chances of getting elected look much better as he has already secured at least 55 votes in Latvia's 100-seat parliament. The parliament is due to hold the presidential election at the end of May or early June. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:03:11|Editor: yan Video Player Close WINDHOEK, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Namibian President and chairperson of Southern African Development Community (SADC), Hage Geingob, on Wednesday said the bilateral relations between Namibia and Guinea should bring SADC and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) closer. He said at a press briefing during the state visit of Guinea president, Alpha Conde, in Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. "This type of cooperation is crucial in advancing our quest to realize the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and continental integration we all yearn for. We need to create jobs, especially for our youth. Hence as a priority, let's all work towards improving the business environment, promoting investments and supporting the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)." He said the cooperation between the two countries will greatly serve as transmission belt for import and export of commodities between African countries. According to Geingob, this will in turn contribute towards the realization of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement. Conde is in Namibia for a two-day visit which ends on Thursday. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:18:18|Editor: yan Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Senior UN officials warned that insecurity and armed attacks in the Sahel have reached unprecedented levels, a UN spokesman said on Wednesday. The UN officials called for increased humanitarian aid to millions of people affected by this spread of violence, said Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. According to Haq, the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinators for Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger warned that humanitarian needs had surpassed available resources, as violence persists and risks spilling over into coastal West African countries. The number of security incidents in Burkina Faso, Mali and western Niger has increased sharply in recent months, with over 150 violent incidents recorded in April alone that claimed more than 300 lives, he added. In just one year, internal displacement has increased five-fold, uprooting more than 330,000 people, in addition to 100,000 refugees, and severely affecting education and health services, Haq said. Aid organizations have appealed for 600 million U.S. dollars to assist 3.7 million hardest-hit people, said Haq, adding that the average funding stands at only 19 percent in the first four months of this year. As the attacks by violent extremist groups, coupled with inter-community clashes, are increasing, some 5.1 million people need humanitarian assistance in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger's western Tahoua and Tillaberi regions, according to latest UN figures. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:18:21|Editor: yan Video Player Close BEIRUT, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Lebanon's House Speaker Nabih Berri slammed Wednesday rumors about Lebanon being on the verge of bankruptcy, the National News Agency reported. "Lebanon is not bankrupt and the rumors that are being spread do not reflect reality," Berri said during his weekly meeting with members of parliament in the capital Beirut. Berri assured that the monetary situation in Lebanon is stable and under control. He added that achieving a proper state budget will restore confidence in the country and its economy. Lebanese officials have been calling for harsh austerity measures in a bid to reduce the country's budget deficit and save the economy from a catastrophe. Among the unpopular measures that the government has been promoting is the cut in wages of public sector employees which created fears among the Lebanese people about the future of the economy in Lebanon and the dire situation that has pushed officials to take such harsh measures. Endorsing a state budget that slashes the deficit is among the measures the government has pledged to take as part of the key financial and economic reforms. To curb Lebanon's budget deficit, which has increased to over 11 percent of GDP, the cabinet will seek to reduce the deficit by 1 percent each year over the next five years by limiting government expenditures. Local economists have been calling for alternative ways to cut the budget deficit including the fight against corruption and tax evasion in addition to stopping employment in the public sector and introducing serious reforms in the electricity sector. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:33:26|Editor: yan Video Player Close GENEVA, May 8 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday took part in a tree-planting ceremony to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the International Labour Organization (ILO). Together with ILO Director-General Guy Ryder and Swiss officials, Guterres said during the ceremony that the ILO's contribution to the rights of working people around the world is "absolutely remarkable". "There are many things that today are considered natural, but that in 1919 did not exist at all. And, it is thanks to this institutionalized social dialogue at the global level that we have been able to make remarkable progress," said Guterres. "I believe that the International Labor Organization has demonstrated a tremendous vision in anticipating the prospects that the fourth industrial revolution and artificial intelligence will have in the labor market," said the UN chief. Switzerland was represented at the ceremony by Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis; President of the Canton of Geneva, Antonio Hodgers, and the city's mayor, Sami Kanaan. "We are here to celebrate 100 years of history but also and above all to continue to build a future that benefits everyone," said Cassis. "The trees that have been planted today symbolize rooting and resilience to crises, but also vitality, strength, and beauty." Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:38:28|Editor: Yamei Video Player Close WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The White House announced on Wednesday that the United States is imposing sanctions with respect to the iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors of Iran. "Today, I am signing an executive order to impose sanctions with respect to Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors, the regime's largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue," U.S. President Donald Trump said in a statement. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," the statement added. Brian Hook, U.S. special representative for Iran, also said at a conference on the same day that Washington would continue the "maximum pressure" against Iran until Tehran changes behavior. The sanction constituted the latest move of U.S. "maximum pressure" campaign against Iran, which came on the one-year mark of the Trump administration's decision of exiting the Iran nuclear deal in May last year. Tehran has been taking a hard-line stance and urging national unity and solidarity in the face of resolute U.S. threats. In a televised speech on Wednesday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran would begin to build up stockpiles of its enriched uranium and heavy water. "It doesn't mean that Iran leaves the nuclear agreement, known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)," Rouhani said. Iran will wait for 60 days to start negotiations with the signatories of the nuclear deal over its economic interests enshrined by the nuclear deal, including its oil sales and international banking transactions, said Rouhani, adding that if Iran achieves no results after 60 days, it will adopt two more counter-measures to the U.S. withdrawal from the deal. Following the exit from the Iran nuclear deal, the Trump administration has kept piling up pressure on Iran through a series of sanctions and designations, which have been strongly opposed and criticized by Tehran. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:43:30|Editor: yan Video Player Close VANCOUVER, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese technology giant Huawei said in a statement on Wednesday that the company has always been confident in the innocence of its chief financial officer (CFO) Meng Wanzhou, who was arrested in Vancouver last December at the extradition request of the United States. "We have maintained that her U.S.-ordered arrest was an unlawful abuse of process - one guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law," the statement said, after Meng attended a court hearing in Vancouver on Wednesday morning lcoal time. The statement was made by Benjamin Howes, vice president of media affairs at Huawei, outside the British Columbia Supreme Court. "The criminal case against Ms. Meng is based on allegations that are simply not true. To the contrary, it was made clear in court today that business activities by Ms. Meng were conducted openly and transparently with full knowledge of banking officials," Howes said. The lawyers noted in court that there is no evidence to prove that Meng committed acts of deceit, dishonesty, or other fraudulent means, according to said. Meng was arrested on Dec. 1, 2018, at Vancouver's airport at the request of the United States, which is seeking her extradition on fraud charges. Both Meng and Huawei have repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:48:33|Editor: yan Video Player Close BAGHDAD, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Iraq on Wednesday strongly condemned the terrorist attack outside a Sufi shrine in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore that killed and wounded dozens of people. "Iraq strongly condemns the terrorist attack, and stresses that the principles of Islam are to save lives, spread peace, and promote cooperation among humans, not killing, destruction or creating chaos among people," said Ahmed al-Sahaf, spokesman of the Iraqi Foreign Ministry, in a statement. He said that Iraq has fought, and is still in war against terrorism and extremism, calling on all states and organizations to stand firm against the global terrorist threat, according to the statement. Earlier in the day, a suicide bomber blew up his explosive-laden jacket near a vehicle of police commandoes outside the crowded Data Darbar shrine located in the downtown of Lahore, leaving at least eight people, including five policemen, killed and some 25 others wounded. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 04:58:43|Editor: yan Video Player Close by Eric J. Lyman ROME, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Wednesday sacked a junior minister and ranking member of one of the two political parties backing his government, a move some analysts said could be the start of a new phase for the professor-turned-head of government. The official Conte removed was Armando Siri, a deputy minister of transport and a top official with the nationalist, anti-migrant League, the junior member of his government coalition. Siri was caught in a swirl of corruption charges related to bribery and connections to organized crime. Siri had denied any wrongdoing and Matteo Salvini, one of Italy's deputy prime minister and head of the League continued to support Siri. But Luigi Di Maio, the other deputy prime minister and head of the anti-establishment Five-Star Movement, repeatedly called for Siri's ouster. In the end, Conte -- a former law professor who is not formally a member of either of the two parties supporting his government -- came down on the side of Di Maio and the Five-Star Movement. Last week, Conte called on Siri to resign and when Siri refused, he used Wednesday's cabinet meeting to fire him. "Without the citizens' trust, we cannot continue to consider ourselves the government of change," Conte said after Siri's removal was formalized. Analysts and media reports have noted that for most of the 11 months of the current Italian government, Conte's main role has been finding what political scientist Flavio Chiapponi called the "delicate balance" between the often opposing policies of the Five-Star Movement and the League. "This is the first time since he became prime minister that Conte has played the protagonist role, following his own agenda," Chiapponi, who specializes in political communications at the University of Pavia, told Xinhua. "Neither party was going to compromise when it came to Siri, and so Conte took the stance of, 'I'm the prime minister; I decide.'" Luca Ricolfi, an author, political analyst, and sociologist, said he believed Conte feared the disagreement over Siri could have pulled the fragile government coalition apart at a difficult time, in the lead up to elections for European Parliament later this month. "It's possible Conte was simply acting to preserve the government he heads," Ricolfi said in an interview. "He might have simply been acting in his own self-interest." But both Chiapponi and Ricolfi said it was also possible that Conte could also be strengthening his hold on the prime minister's role. "Conte had no political experience, he had to learn on the job," Chiapponi said. "It's possible that he is growing into the job and more willing to make unilateral decisions." Ricolfi agreed: "Six months ago, I don't think Conte would have done the same thing," he said. Di Maio praised the developments after Wednesday's cabinet meeting, calling it a "victory for honest Italians ... who demand firmness in a country where corruption is a national emergency." Salvini was less content, though he said he would respect the decision on Siri. "Trials are usually conducted in court." Salvini said. Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-09 06:04:16|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close Syrian refugees returning from Jordan are seen at the Nasib border crossing in the southern province of Daraa, Syria, on May 8, 2019. Batches of Syrian refugees returned from Jordan and the Rukban camp in southern Syria on Wednesday, according to the state news agency SANA. (Xinhua) DAMASCUS, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Batches of Syrian refugees returned from Jordan and a southern Syrian camp on Wednesday, according to the state news agency SANA. The refugees returned to Syria through the Nasib border crossing in the southern province of Daraa. SANA said that 19,600 refugees returned from Jordan since the reopening of the crossing between both countries late last year. The Syrian refugees started returning in batches from Jordan since last October when the Nasib crossing between the two countries reopened. It is estimated that 1.4 million Syrian refugees are located in Jordan, according to Jordanian report. Meanwhile, SANA said that displaced Syrians left the Rukban camp in southeastern Syria and reached government areas in Homs province on Wednesday, the latest batch that left the battered camp since early this year. The evacuees from the camp reached the Jlaighem crossing in the eastern countryside of Homs Province in central Syria after leaving Rukban camp near the U.S.-controlled al-Tanf area in the remote southeastern countryside of Homs. The Rukban camp is home to 50,000 displaced Syrians, who are suffering from the harsh humanitarian situation because of lack of supplies. In loc de Buni zori. Iubita mea, adu-mi din nou Craciunul Iubita mea, adu-mi din nou Craciunul Cum numai tu il faci ca altadat Cu brad care miroase-a vesnicie Si casa preschimbata in palat Adu-l in brate, adu-l ca Maria, Care-si tinea pruncul frumos la san Si du-ma, cand colindele s-or stinge, Sa fim doar noi, in podul vechi cu [citeste mai departe] Stiri pe aceeasi tema - Parliament decided in a plenary session on Tuesday, the appointment of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) MP Mihai Weber in the position of chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee for the control of the activity of the Foreign Intelligence Service (SIE). The vote was secret with ballots. - Alexandru Stanescu was elected on Tuesday in the joint plenary meeting of Parliament, as a member of the Regulatory Committee of the National Energy Regulatory Authority (ANRE). 233 MPs voted "in favour" and 120 voted "against". The vote was secret with ballot papers. There were two candidates - Uniunea Crestin Democrata (CDU) din Germania organizeaza duminica un referendum pentru desemnarea noului lider al formatiunii conservatoare, care il va inlocui pe Armin Laschet, invins in competitia electorala pentru functia de cancelar, relateaza agentia germana DPA, citata - Politicienii care au readus Compania Publica "Teleradio-Moldova" sub control parlamentar, iar pe membrii CA i-au transformat in simple marionete care pot fi inlocuite in orice moment sub orice pretext, au o singura scuza la tirul de avertismente si critici care vine din toate - The People's Movement Party (PMP, non-parliamentary) requests President Klaus Iohannis urgently summon the Supreme Council for the Country's Defence (CSAT) for the critical situation the health crisis has reached. "There is need for an urgent plan as fast as possible to be implemented by a - Prima editie a emisiunii #Referendum, difuzata luni, 11 octombrie, la #TVR1. Intrebarea lansata de Mihai Radulescu si echipa lui este: Sunteti de acord cu obligativitatea Certificatului verde Covid19 pentru anumite categorii profesionale? - Co-chair of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), Deputy George Simion, says that the nomination of Dacian Ciolos for the position of prime minister "seems just a political game", and states that he is waiting for the next "move" of the Romanian President, given that "there is no majority - Save Romania Union - Freedom, Unity and Solidarity Party (USR PLUS) co-chair Dacian Ciolos said he is not taking into account being prime minister, as he has responsibilities in the European Parliament, and if he wins the USR PLUS presidency, he wants to take over the party. "There are many South Africa: Millions to cast their votes About 26.7 million registered voters are expected to cast their ballots on Wednesday during the sixth General Elections. The elections are taking place as South Africa celebrates the 25th anniversary of its first democratic elections. A total of 22 924 voting stations will open from 7am until 9pm to allow voters to cast their ballots for the national and provincial elections. Voting stations will close at 9pm but all voters who are in the queue to vote at 9pm will be allowed to vote. Once the voting station closes, the counting of votes begins immediately at the voting station. The counting is conducted by election officials and is witnessed by party agents and observers, the Electoral Commission (IEC) of South Africa said. According to the IEC, voting stations will be staffed by approximately 189 000 election officials who have volunteered and been trained over the past two months to conduct the elections. Voters can check their voting station location by SMSing their ID number to 32810 (R1) and can reach the Contact Centre on 0800 11 8000 for all enquiries regarding the elections. There are on average 8 election officials per voting station which includes the Presiding Officer, Deputy Presiding Officer and officials to perform the various aspects of the voting process, the IEC said. These duties include assisting voters in the queue including checking that they have the right identification documents (only green barcoded ID book, a smartcard ID or a valid temporary ID certificate is accepted). They will scan the voters ID document and check the voters name against the voters roll. They are also responsible for inking the voters left thumb with indelible ink, stamping and issuing the voter with a national and provincial ballot paper. Officials are also available to capture addresses for voters whose addresses do not appear on the voters roll. Each political party is also permitted to deploy two party agents at every voting station to oversee and monitor voting and counting, the IEC said. Sixty six observer organizations have been accredited by the Commission. The IEC said the record number of 48 parties contesting these elections has placed additional demands and pressures on the Commission, as well as on voters. The longer ballots have placed additional financial and logistical demands on the Commission including requiring more ballot boxes, redesigned Universal Ballot Templates (UBTs), and a refined focus on balloting education. Demands are also placed on voters, including the visually disabled who have to navigate a wide range of choices on longer national and provincial ballots, the Electoral Commission said. The Commission has improved the ballot with the following innovations: The 2019 ballot papers have been redesigned to enable easy identification of the party of choice by the voter, to facilitate the selection of that party with confidence and to minimise risks of miscast ballots. Party identifiers are far more distinct and the sequence of party identifiers on the ballot paper has been re-ordered. For visually impaired and special needs voters, the Commission has produced TEN customised voting aids called Universal Ballot Templates (UBTs) to fit the newly designed 2019 national and provincial ballots. Each voting station will have a UBT to accommodate the national ballot and one for the provincial ballot. For all voters, the Commission has developed large posters showing the national ballot and the provincial ballot. These will be displayed in each voting station to help voters easily distinguish the different parties on the ballot list. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Radioactive carbon from nuclear bomb tests found in deep ocean trenches WASHINGTON--Radioactive carbon released into the atmosphere from 20th-century nuclear bomb tests has reached the deepest parts of the ocean, new research finds. A new study in AGU's journal Geophysical Research Letters finds the first evidence of radioactive carbon from nuclear bomb tests in muscle tissues of crustaceans that inhabit Earth's ocean trenches, including the Mariana Trench, home to the deepest spot in the ocean. Organisms at the ocean surface have incorporated this "bomb carbon" into the molecules that make up their bodies since the late 1950s. The new study finds crustaceans in deep ocean trenches are feeding on organic matter from these organisms when it falls to the ocean floor. The results show human pollution can quickly enter the food web and make its way to the deep ocean, according to the study's authors. "Although the oceanic circulation takes hundreds of years to bring water containing bomb [carbon] to the deepest trench, the food chain achieves this much faster," said Ning Wang, a geochemist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Guangzhou, China, and lead author of the new study. "There's a very strong interaction between the surface and the bottom, in terms of biologic systems, and human activities can affect the biosystems even down to 11,000 meters, so we need to be careful about our future behaviors," said Weidong Sun, a geochemist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Qingdao, China, and co-author of the new study. "It's not expected, but it's understandable, because it's controlled by the food chain." The results also help scientists better understand how creatures have adapted to living in the nutrient-poor environment of the deep ocean, according to the authors. The crustaceans they studied live for an unexpectedly long time by having extremely slow metabolisms, which the authors suspect may be an adaptation to living in this impoverished and harsh environment. Creating radioactive particles Carbon-14 is radioactive carbon that is created naturally when cosmic rays interact with nitrogen in the atmosphere. Carbon-14 is much less abundant than non-radioactive carbon, but scientists can detect it in nearly all living organisms and use it to determine the ages of archeological and geological samples. Thermonuclear weapons tests conducted during the 1950s and 1960s doubled the amount of carbon-14 in the atmosphere when neutrons released from the bombs reacted with nitrogen in the air. Levels of this "bomb carbon" peaked in the mid-1960s and then dropped when atmospheric nuclear tests stopped. By the 1990s, carbon-14 levels in the atmosphere had dropped to about 20 percent above their pre-test levels. This bomb carbon quickly fell out of the atmosphere and mixed into the ocean surface. Marine organisms that have lived in the decades since this time have used bomb carbon to build molecules within their cells, and scientists have seen elevated levels of carbon-14 in marine organisms since shortly after the bomb tests began. Life at the bottom of the sea The deepest parts of the ocean are the hadal trenches, those areas where the ocean floor is more than 6 kilometers (4 miles) below the surface. These areas form when one tectonic plate subducts beneath another. Creatures that inhabit these trenches have had to adapt to the intense pressures, extreme cold, and lack of light and nutrients. In the new study, researchers wanted to use bomb carbon as a tracer for organic material in hadal trenches to better understand the organisms that live there. Wang and her colleagues analyzed amphipods collected in 2017 from the Mariana, Mussau, and New Britain Trenches in the tropical West Pacific Ocean, as far down as 11 kilometers (7 miles) below the surface. Amphipods are a type of small crustacean that live in the ocean and get food from scavenging dead organisms or consuming marine detritus. Surprisingly, the researchers found carbon-14 levels in the amphipods' muscle tissues were much greater than levels of carbon-14 in organic matter found in deep ocean water. They then analyzed the amphipods' gut contents and found those levels matched estimated carbon-14 levels from samples of organic material taken from the surface of the Pacific Ocean. This suggests the amphipods are selectively feeding on detritus from the ocean surface that falls to the ocean floor. Adapting to the deep ocean environment The new findings allow researchers to better understand the longevity of organisms that inhabit hadal trenches and how they have adapted to this unique environment. Interestingly, the researchers found the amphipods living in these trenches grow larger and live longer than their counterparts in shallower waters. Amphipods that live in shallow water typically live for less than two years and grow to an average length of 20 millimeters (0.8 inches). But the researchers found amphipods in the deep trenches that were more than 10 years old and had grown to 91 millimeters (3.6 inches) long. The study authors suspect the amphipods' large size and long life are likely the byproducts of their evolution to living in the environment of low temperatures, high pressure and a limited food supply. They suspect the animals have slow metabolisms and low cell turnover, which allows them to store energy for long periods of time. The long life time also suggests pollutants can bioaccumulate in these unusual organisms. "Besides the fact that material mostly comes from the surface, the age-related bioaccumulation also increases these pollutant concentrations, bringing more threat to these most remote ecosystems," Wang said. The new study shows deep ocean trenches are not isolated from human activities, Rose Cory, an associate professor of earth and environmental sciences at the University of Michigan who was not involved in the new research, said in an email. The research shows that by using "bomb" carbon, scientists can detect the fingerprint of human activity in the most remote, deepest depths of the ocean, she added. The authors also use "bomb" carbon to show that the main source of food for these organisms is carbon produced in the surface ocean, rather than more local sources of carbon deposited from nearby sediments, Cory said. The new study also suggests that the amphipods in the deep trenches have adapted to the harsh conditions in deep trenches, she added. "What is really novel here is not just that carbon from the surface ocean can reach the deep ocean on relatively short timescales, but that the 'young' carbon produced in the surface ocean is fueling, or sustaining, life in the deepest trenches," Cory said. ### Founded in 1919, AGU is a not-for-profit scientific society dedicated to advancing Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity. We support 60,000 members, who reside in 135 countries, as well as our broader community, through high-quality scholarly publications, dynamic meetings, our dedication to science policy and science communications, and our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, as well as many other innovative programs. AGU is home to the award-winning news publication Eos, the Thriving Earth Exchange, where scientists and community leaders work together to tackle local issues, and a headquarters building that represents Washington, D.C.'s first net zero energy commercial renovation. We are celebrating our Centennial in 2019. #AGU100 Notes for Journalists This paper is freely available through May 31. Journalists and public information officers (PIOs) can download a PDF copy of the article by clicking on this link: https:/ / agupubs. onlinelibrary. wiley. com/ doi/ epdf/ 10. 1029/ 2018GL081514 Journalists and PIOs may also request a copy of the final paper by emailing Liza Lester at llester@agu.org. Please provide your name, the name of your publication, and your phone number. Neither the paper nor this press release is under embargo. Multimedia associated with this press release may be downloaded here: https:/ / aguorg. sharepoint. com/ :f:/ s/ newsroom/ EiqonQoZr-tKp0bDXmynsncB2oXPMHH16MbWCF_txY-5aw Authors: Ning Wang, Chengde Shen, Ping Ding, Snyuan Zhu, Weixi Yi, Zhiquing Yu, Zhongli Sha and Mei Mi, State Key Laboratory of Isotope Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China Weidong Sun, Laboratory for Marine Mineral Resources, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China, and Center of Deep Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China Lisheng He, Institute of Deep?sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China Jiasong Fang, Hadal Science and Technology Research Center, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China and College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Hawaii Pacific University, Honolulu, HI, USA Kexin Liu, State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology, Peking University, Beijing, China Xiaomei Xu and Ellen R.M. Druffel, Department of Earth System Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Source: Xinhua| 2019-05-07 20:40:48|Editor: mingmei Video Player Close HARARE, May 7 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe's largest referral hospital has once again partnered China's Hunan Provincial Maternal Hospital in offering free cervical cancer screening and treatment to at least 1, 700 Zimbabwean women in 2019. Zimbabwean and Chinese officials on Tuesday gathered at the Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare for the launch and donation of equipment for the cervical cancer detection and treatment center. Under the treatment camp, which is running for the third consecutive year at the hospital, women aged between 30 and 65 from throughout Zimbabwe will receive high-tech free cancer screening and treatment. Over the past two years, over a thousand women in the country have benefited from the healthcare service project as the country scales up the fight against one of the leading women cancers in Zimbabwe. Speaking at the launch ceremony, Zimbabwean First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa who was on Monday appointed the country's ambassador for Health and Child Care, urged women to take advantage of the screening and treatment camp to come and receive cervical cancer health care services. She also lauded China for its support to Zimbabwe in fighting the scourge, which she noted continues to be a serious public health problem globally. "I commend the gesture made by China through Hunan Provincial Maternal Hospital for this continuous partnership with Parirenyatwa Hospital in this noble cause. This is consistent with our national cervical cancer screening, treatment and prevention program," she said. She observed that efforts by countries in the developing world to offer modern medicines for cervical cancer were being hampered by lack of funds. "It is in light of this that we value your partnership to take us along with the rest of the developing world in the fight against cervical cancer," she said. Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe Guo Shaochun said China's support to Zimbabwe's health sector continued to grow with the cervical cancer screening and treatment camp being another example of the expanding cooperation. He said the equipment will make Zimbabwe one of the only four countries in Africa that are able to carry out HPV tests. Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital vice dean Liang Songyue said through the project, China had made significant contribution to women's health in Zimbabwe and made great achievements with the completion of three free clinics and two academic exchanges. Volodymyr Koval had was a member of the brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces May 8, night, a soldier of a separate assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, commander of the landing and assault division, petty officer Koval Volodymyr died from a serious wound during a two-way fight at one of the positions on the Azov Sea. The press service of the 79th Brigade reported this on Facebook. The deceased serviceman was born in the Khmelnytskyi region, a daughter and a wife left alone. Command of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces and command of the military unit express their condolences to the relatives of the deceased warrior. Eternal Glory to the Hero! the comrades wrote. Earlier, One Ukrainian soldier died in Donbas on May 8. Militants violate ceasefire in Donetsk sector twice on May 8. Marinka and Pavlopil came under fire from Minsk-banned weapons. Marinka and Pavlopil came under fire from Minsk-banned weapons. Defence Ministry confirmed information about 25 armed provocations. Illegal armed formations used banned weapons. including 122mm artillery, 120mm, and 82mm mortars, and combat vehicle guns. The official meets with Ukrainian colleagues; the sides discuss political and economic reforms in Ukraine and the ongoing Russian aggression George Kent, Deputy Assistant Secretary in the European and Eurasian Bureau at the U.S. Department of State 112 Agency George Kent, the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the European and Eurasian Bureau at the U.S. Department of State came to Kyiv May 8. The press office of the U.S. Embassy reported that on Facebook. Kent is supposed to meet with Ukrainian colleagues; the sides are to discuss political and economic reforms in Ukraine and the ongoing Russian aggression. Earlier, it became known that U.S. ambassador Marie Yovanovitch's cadence will be over in Ukraine on May 20. The U.S. Department of the State called it a 'planned measure'. Yovanovitch, an experienced career diplomat who has served in Republican and Democratic administrations and has been ambassador to Ukraine since 2016, will leave her post later in May, two months before she was scheduled to step down. The attacks, which four current and former U.S. officials who spoke to Foreign Policy said are unfounded, drew the attention of top Democratic lawmakers, who urged U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in a private letter last month to publicly defend her. Its clear by now that former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, the front-runner in a large field of Democratic candidates for the presidency, will have to keep answering questions about his own and his son Hunters involvement in Ukrainian affairs. President Donald Trump, aides such as Rudy Giuliani, and Fox News commentators will keep calling for the Bidens to be investigated for a conflict of interest, and various Ukrainian figures will do their best to keep the story alive. The conflict of interest story isnt worth much on its merits. But if it plagues Biden, he will deserve it for the ham-handed way he interfered in Ukrainian politics a snake-pit that isnt kind to badly informed outsiders. Bidens cowboy-style interventions didnt do Ukraine any good, and its wily politicians ran circles around him. Americans shouldnt pay too much attention to the shaky corruption allegations, but Bidens record in Ukraine doesnt speak well for his judgment on foreign policy. The central allegation spun up by Trump and his allies involves Hunter Bidens work for the oil and gas company Burisma Holdings, where he served as a board member from 2014 until recently. Burisma is owned by Mykola Zlochevsky, who had been a cabinet minister under President Viktor Yanukovych. Zlochevsky fled Ukraine after the 2014 Revolution of Dignity that deposed Yanukovych , and was put under investigation by the Ukrainian Prosecutor Generals Office. Last year, Biden famously boasted that he had forced Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko to fire the prosecutor general by threatening to withhold a $1 billion U.S. loan if he failed to obey. Now, that prosecutor general, Viktor Shokin, says he was fired because he was pursuing Zlochevsky and Burisma. I didnt get the hints that we should stop the investigation of Burisma wrongdoing, he said in an interview published this week, in which he also accuses Biden of pursuing personal interests in Ukraine and recruiting Ukrainian officials to protect them charges Biden denies. Shokins claims are highly questionable. The illegal enrichment and money laundering investigation against Zlochevsky was started in August 2014 at the request of Shokins deputy, Vitaly Kasko. He had a strained relationship with his boss, and resigned in early 2016, two months before Shokins firing. Shokin didnt actually lead the Zlochevsky investigation, so his removal wasnt necessary to stop it. Besides, Kasko denies there was any U.S. pressure to end the investigation: He told Bloomberg News that the case had been dormant for a while when Shokin was fired. Its likely, however, that Poroshenko was indeed interested in ending the Burisma investigation for reasons that may or may not have had anything to do with the Bidens. Global corruption watchdog Transparency International closely followed the transformation of the criminal investigation into a demand for back taxes. There are reasonable grounds to believe that close associates of current Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko have significantly assisted Mykola Zlochevsky in dismissing criminal cases against him, Transparency wrote in a detailed brief on the history of the Zlochevsky investigation. Zlochevsky, cleared of all charges, is free to do business in Ukraine, and Burisma reports steady growth in natural gas production. And Poroshenko, of course, has been voted out as president, losing by a landslide to comedian Volodymyr Zelenskiy last month. Depending on whether Zelenskiy decides to go after Poroshenko for alleged graft he hinted strongly during the campaign that he would do so the Burisma narrative coming from Ukraine may undergo surprising permutations. Ukraine is a country without a functioning legal system. Justice often depends on whos in charge. Trump partisans will try to use the Burisma case to pump up the shaky claims into a scandal against Biden. But Biden opened himself up to the smears by diving into the Ukrainian cesspool and bragging about it. Shokins words would be that much less credible had Biden not boasted that hed personally gotten the prosecutor fired. Although Ukrainian anti-corruption activists had been clamoring for Shokins dismissal and his days in office were probably numbered, Biden decided for some reason to claim credit a move as nearsighted as it was unnecessary. Bidens other boasts about Ukraine reveal a naivete about the countrys political landscape and the forces shaping it. In his 2017 memoir, Promise Me, Dad, Biden described making a call to Yanukovych in late February of 2014, when his snipers were assassinating Ukrainian citizens by the dozens to tell him to call off his gunmen and walk away because his Russian friends wouldnt rescue him from the disaster. The disgraced president fled Ukraine the next day, Biden wrote. If indeed Biden called Yanukovych the day before his flight, that would have been Feb. 21, when Yanukovych signed a European-brokered deal with opposition politicians that would have kept him in office for a transition period with drastically reduced powers. Protesters seized the government quarter in Kiev in the next few hours, and Yanukovych fled to his country residence, fearing for his life. Its impossible to know now if it was Bidens alleged call, coupled with the takeover of government buildings, that gave Yanukovych the idea the deal was never meant to be kept. If so, Biden could have inadvertently helped to set off the chain of events that led to the Russian takeover of Crimea as a reaction to what Russian President Vladimir Putin saw as a U.S.-led coup. In other Ukraine interventions, Biden tried to keep the peace between Poroshenko and his first prime minister, Arseniy Yatsenyuk, whom Biden described as a young patriot in his book long after the Yatsenyuk became deeply unpopular thanks to the corrupt schemes of his associates. Poroshenko listened to Bidens exhortations about working with Yatsenyuk, then pushed him out anyway once Yatsenyuk had been thoroughly discredited. Biden has publicly insisted that the Ukrainian authorities get tougher on corruption. He even made an impassioned speech about it to the Ukrainian parliament in 2015. But at the same time, he likely led Ukrainian leaders to believe that maintaining a good relationship with the U.S. vice president meant more than any substantive anti-graft measures when it came to getting foreign aid. Poroshenko, Biden wrote in his memoirs, knew I had gone to bat for him to get aid from the International Monetary Fund and loan guarantees from the United States. The IMF, of course, is supposed to issue loans based on strict criteria, not on political support; if Poroshenko indeed knew anything of the sort, it must have contributed to his imitation of reforms for the sake of foreign sponsors such as Biden. It didnt help him much with Ukrainian voters this year, though. Generally, open meddling in the politics of a foreign country, even one as troubled as Ukraine, isnt a great idea for a U.S. politician, even if he was personally handed the Ukraine portfolio by the president. Its even worse when the politician doesnt have a clear idea of the consequences. The election of populist political novice Zelenskiy is a direct consequence of Poroshenkos bungling rule, assisted by a bungling, boastful Biden. Once Zelenskiy takes office this month, the U.S. will have to turn a new leaf with Ukraine. Theres nothing much for U.S. voters to see in the Burisma case: Its too convoluted and buried under too many layers of Ukrainian political and business relationships to yield any useful conclusions about Bidens character. The voters, however, would be right to ask whether Bidens foreign policy skills, as displayed in Ukraine, are what the U.S. needs to rebuild the relationships undermined by Trump and his rough, bullying style. Id say a subtler diplomat and better judge of character would be needed for such a role. Read the original article here. Druzhba pipeline for oil delivery, Russia TASS Contaminated crude oil from Russia is clogging the main delivery route for several EU countries. Belarus, Poland, and Germany are particularly affected and the real financial consequences are still completely unclear. Germany has a serious problem with Russia, its largest energy supplier. For two weeks, the Druzhba (Russian for "friendship") pipeline has been blocked. It is the main route to supply Europe's leading economy with Russian oil. Even during Soviet times, the former East Germany was supplied by it as were other communist "brother countries." But as of April 25, today's EU members Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic can no longer get oil from the Druzhba pipeline. Warsaw, Budapest and Prague have already had to tap into their emergency reserves. Tons of contaminated oil The problem is technical. According to information from Moscow, heavily polluted oil has entered the pipeline probably in the Samara region on the Volga. This oil contains chlorides, which are used to extract oil from largely exhausted sources. But afterwards, the chlorides have to be removed, because they can cause severe corrosion damage in refineries. The maximum allowed concentration of such chemicals is 10 parts per million (ppm). Currently, though the oil in the Druzhba pipe is showing up to 330 ppm of chloride. Since refineries have refused to accept such a contaminated raw material, its transit was stopped by the pipeline operators in all customer countries. So far the contaminated oil has not come as far as Germany, according to the German Petroleum Industry Association (MWV). It is still unclear how much of the contaminated crude has accumulated in the several thousand kilometers of pipelines in Belarus, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. It is been estimated that up to five million tons, or 37 million barrels, have entered the system in Russia. That would correspond roughly to the monthly capacity of the now clogged Druzhba pipeline. Still other sources talk about three million tons. Pain in Belarus So far Belarus has suffered the most among the buyer and transit countries. Their economy is heavily dependent on oil from Russia, which it gets at a preferential price and processes in two refineries to gasoline, the country's main export and foreign currency producer. Minsk also cashes in on all the oil that passes through the country, otherwise known as transit fees. Therefore, a standstill in the Druzhba and a shutdown of gasoline production are a heavy blow to the already weakened economy. In addition, the equipment in the Masyr refinery has reportedly been seriously damaged by the chlorine in the oil. At the end of April, Minsk estimated its losses at $100 million (89.4 million), now it is said that the final bill will be significantly higher. Belarus closed its section of the Druzhba pipeline on April 24. New "clean" oil from Russia arrived in Masyr on May 4, two days later the refinery was still busy cleaning the plant. On the same day, Ukraine announced that it had resumed transit of Russian oil to the EU. Restarting service to southeastern Europe The Druzhba pipeline divides into two lines around Masyr. The smaller southern line leads across Ukraine into Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. According to Ukrainian pipeline operator Ukrtransnafta, clean Russian oil could reach these EU countries on May 18. This would still mean a delivery interruption of more than three weeks for these customers. How long Poland and Germany will have to wait for Russian oil, however, remains unclear. These countries are supplied via the much larger northern section of the Druzhba pipeline, which seems to be clogged with a considerable amount of the contaminated stuff. This contaminated material must first be removed and disposed of. Russia's Energy Minister Alexander Nowak announced a return to the usual exports in the next few weeks: "As far as the normalization of the situation is concerned, we expect this for the second half of May," he said Tuesday. Getting rid of the dirty oil The question of how and who would pay has so far gone unanswered, at least publically. However, the Russian government has already held (discrete) negotiations twice with all the countries concerned, as Nowak announced on May 7. In Belarus, the disposal will be done by the state-owned Russian oil pipeline monopoly Transneft. The company will load contaminated oil in cars of the Russian state railway. After that, it will be brought to the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk, where it will be mixed with clean oil, pumped into tankers and exported. This same "mixing technology" will also be used in the Russian Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga. Ust-Luga is connected to the Druzhba system through the BPS-2 pipeline, which also contains large quantities of contaminated oil. Nevertheless, Ust-Luga was only down for one day. Otherwise tankers were loaded and set sail for the Netherlands and other EU countries. According to the latest information from Moscow clean oil should reach the port on May 8. German refineries remain silent The German refineries in Schwedt and Leuna, which would normally be supplied via the Druzhba pipeline, are now dependent on supplies via ships landing at the Baltic Sea port in Rostock. And now these refineries must be careful that they do not get any contaminated Russian oil by sea instead of by land. The fact that these German companies have maintained a noticeable silence despite the precarious situation may be due to the fact that a shareholder of the PCK refinery in Schwedt is the Russian state-owned company Rosneft. Its partner, British-Dutch oil and gas multinational Shell, is actively involved in the Russian energy sector. And even Total, a French energy company, which owns the plant in Leuna, has business interests in Russia. However, the supply disruptions and quality problems of Russian export article No. 1 mean "a very serious economic, material and image damage" for Russia. This was clear to Russian President Vladimir Putin on the eve of the May Day holiday, when he quoted the Transneft boss in the Kremlin. The actual losses could not be estimated at that time. Still today, the problem is impossible to estimate. In the meantime, four suspects have been arrested, according to Energy Minister Nowak. They will be investigated for theft, damage to important objects and the creation of a criminal group. Read the original text here. The aircraft was not serviced or repaired since 2014; thus, the planes became totally unfit for combat use, the official says Open source Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-29 fighters that Ukraine left in the annexed Crimea in 2014 have been completely lost as combat units. Dmitriy Belik, the MP of Russia's State Duma from Sevastopol said that as quoted by RBC-Ukraine. 'All Ukrainian combat vehicles that remained on the peninsula was not serviced or repaired since 2014. Russian troops merely guard them, keeping up with the fire safety rules', the lawmaker said. According to him, since Crimea was occupied by Russia in 2014, about ten air superiority fighters of Ukraine's air force remained at Belbek air field and ended up completely useless over these five years. Earlier, some Bulgarian military pilots refused to perform flights using Russian MiG-29 fighters; they reported safety issues in the obsolete aircraft. Atanas Zapryanov, the countrys deputy defense minister said this as quoted by Radio Liberty. The defense ministry accused the boycotting pilots of conducting a motivated campaign. The authority insisted that Bulgaria will be restoring all domestically-made MiG-29s and Russian-made Su-25s (Soviet-era ground attack aircraft, - 112 International). Joseph Pennington will assume the responsibilities of Charge d'affaires and acting Deputy Head within the transitional period Charge d'affaires will head the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine instead of Marie Yovanovitch, as Josh Rogin wrote in The Washington Post. The columnist had access to the copy of the internal communication of the U.S. State Department. According to him, the U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch will leave her post on May 20 without anyone replacing her and without nomination of candidates for the post. We expect the Department to appoint a long-term Charge dAffaires to lead the mission until a new Chief of Mission is nominated and confirmed, read the notice, which was sent to all mission personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv. At the same time, it was added that Joseph Pennington will assume the responsibilities of charge d'affaires and acting Deputy Head within the transitional period. Incoming Deputy Chief of Mission Kristina Kvien plans to arrive in Kiev on May 28, the article reads. The session of the Alliance will take place in Brussels on May 22 Open source NATO chief will discuss the security situation and cooperation with Ukraine during the session in Brussels on May 22. The NATO reported on its website. The Allied Chiefs of Defence will meet for the second time in 2019 to discuss NATOs Deterrence and Defence Posture and the Enablement of SACEURs Area of Responsibility, the report said. The duties of new Supreme Allied Commander Europe Tod Wolters will be discussed a well. According to the report, the officials will also hold two sessions with their partner Chiefs of Defence - one with Ukraine and another with their Mediterranean Dialogue colleagues. The session on Ukraine will allow the Chiefs of Defence to receive an update on the current security situation, recent developments and to discuss future cooperation. As we reported earlier, the decree on hosting of NATO Parliamentary Assembly session in Kyiv in spring 2020 has been released in Holos Ukrainy, the official parliamentary outlet. The decree foresees that the session would take place on May 22-25, 2020. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada is on a diplomatic visit in Kyiv President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko had a meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada Chrystia Freeland on Wednesday, May 8. The press service of the head of state reported this. The parties have discussed the deteriorating situation in the Donbas combat zone, taking into the account the recent acts by Moscow authority. Petro Poroshenko called on Canada to strengthen sanctions against Russia as a response to the so-called passport orders, the report said. Besides, the President noted the significance of the peacekeeping mission from the UN to the temporarily occupied territories of Donbas, including the uncontrolled part of the state border between Ukraine and Russia. Poroshenko thanked Canada for implementing the coordination with EU and USA of the so-called Azov package of sanctions on March. They stressed the issues of release of 24 sailors and all Ukrainian hostages, which are illegally kept by Russia. Poroshenko outlined the important role of Canada in the development of the defensive potential of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. They also discussed the potential directions of the fortification of security of the cooperation between Kyiv and Ottawa as well as the support by Canada of Ukraine concerning getting the opportunity to become a member of NATO. Freeland welcomed the free and democratic character of the presidential election in Ukraine and outlined the special Poroshenkos role in this. Earlier, the president-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada Chrystia Freeland. It is reported that Zelensky and Freeland discussed the fight against corruption and Minsk format for resolving the conflict in eastern Ukraine. The name of the claimant - Igor Churchkin - coincides with the name of the Russian businessman known for several financial scandals in Ukraine Russian citizen Igor Churchkin Open source Russian citizen Igor Churchkin filed a lawsuit against Ukraines Security Service (SBU) concerning entry ban for five years, as the press office of Kyiv District Administrative Court reported. Igor Churkin asks the court to recognize SBUs order to ban him from entering Ukraine for five years. He asks the court to oblige SBU to inform Ukraines State Border Guard Service on the cancelation of the order. Court decides on opening a proceeding. It should be noted that the whole name of the claimant coincides with the name of the Russian businessman known for several financial scandals in Ukraine. As it was reported, information about Igor Churkin was included in Myrotvorets database. SBU banned him from entering Ukraine for five yeas. Some materials touched upon the radicalization of the public actions for the initiation of the mass riots during the holding of the events on the Day of memory and reconciliation and the Day of victory over Nazism in the World Wide War II Operatives of the Security Service of Ukraine detected the pro-Russian propagandist, who prepared and spread on the Internet anti-Ukrainian information under the task of the Russian curators. The press service of the Security Service of Ukraine reports this. According to the report, some materials touched upon the radicalization of the public actions for the initiation of the mass riots during the holding of the events on the Day of memory and reconciliation and the Day of victory over Nazism in the World Wide War II. [article_attached position="2" The agitator was spreading the anti-Ukrainian ideas on the forbidden Russian networks, in particular, he was against the Ukrainian pseudo-state and called on to forcibly change the constitutional order and to violate the territorial integrity of the country. The law enforcers found the computer equipment and mobile devices with proofs of committing of anti-Ukrainian agitation. The criminal proceeding has been launched under the article actions aimed at violent change or overthrow of the constitutional system or the seizure of state power "(Article 109 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine) and" encroachment on the territorial integrity and integrity of Ukraine "(Article 110 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). The investigation is ongoing. Federal Penitentiary Service informed that Balukh is a Russian citizen, which was the reason why the diplomat was not allowed to see him Ukrainian political prisoner Volodymyr Balukh News Front The representative of Ukraines Consulate to Russia was not let to visit the Ukrainian political prisoner Volodymyr Balukh, as Crimean Human Rights Group reported. Russian Federal Penitentiary Service has informed that Balukh is a Russian citizen, which was the reason why the diplomat was not allowed to see him. Balukh's lawyer Olga Dinze visited him in a penal colony No.4 and said that he still was in a punishment cell, over that time he was sent there three times on spurious grounds. The administration reported that the Ukrainian political prisoner would go out of the punishment cell on May 19. He eats bread and drinks water in the cell. His health condition got worse. His legs are swollen which means that he has kidney issues. September 10, the Supreme Court of occupied Crimea controlled by the Kremlin did not grant the appeal of Volodymyr Balukhs lawyer Olga Dinze on his conditional release. It was noted that the activist participated in the session through a video conference from the remand prison. Balukh was arrested on December 8, 2016, nine days after he nailed a plaque renaming his home No. 18 to Heroes of Nebesna Sotnya St in memory of the over 100 Maidan activists who were killed during Euromaidan protests in Ukraine. He had rejected the demands of the head of the local council to remove it. During an irregular search of his home, 90 bullets and several TNT explosive devices were allegedly found in his attic. The implausibility of the charges was just one of several compelling reasons why the renowned Memorial Human Rights Centre declared him a political prisoner well before the trial. Related video: Arsen Avakov stated this during the meeting with the representatives of the U.S. State Department The Ministry of Internal Affairs is ready for holding the parliamentary elections in the fall of 2019. Minister of Internal Affairs Arsen Avakov stated this during the meeting with representatives of the U.S. State Department on Wednesday, May 8, the press service of MIA reported. Our subdivisions are fully ready to secure the order during the parliamentary elections this fall, Avakov stated. According to the report, Deputy Assistant Secretary in the European and Eurasian Bureau at the U.S. Department of State George Kent noted the apolitical nature of the MIA during the voting of Ukrainian people. Earlier today, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary George Kent met with President-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. George Kent, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary, congratulated the newly elected President Vlodymyr Zelensky with the victory and emphasized that the USA is ready to continue supporting partnership with Ukraine for promotion of the political and economic reforms, the report said. The USA is ready to continue supporting partnership with Ukraine U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary George Kent met with President-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. The embassy of the United States of America reported this on Twitter. George Kent, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary, congratulated the newly elected President Vlodymyr Zelensky with the victory and emphasized that the USA is ready to continue supporting partnership with Ukraine for promotion of the political and economic reforms, the report said. Earlier, George Kent, the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the European and Eurasian Bureau at the U.S. Department of State came to Kyiv May 8. Kent is supposed to meet with Ukrainian colleagues; the sides are to discuss political and economic reforms in Ukraine and the ongoing Russian aggression. Earlier, it became known that U.S. ambassador Marie Yovanovitch's cadence would be over in Ukraine on May 20. The U.S. Department of the State called it a 'planned measure.' The data of her departure complies with the transition of power in Ukraine. The Canadian Foreign Minister noted that in some areas, Canada could take an example from Ukraine The president-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with Foreign Minister of Canada Chrystia Freeland www.ukrinform.ua The president-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada Chrystia Freeland. This was reported by the press service of Zelensky, according to Ukrinform agency. It is reported that Zelensky and Freeland discussed the fight against corruption and Minsk format for resolving the conflict in eastern Ukraine. The president-elect noted that he wanted not to talk about the fight against corruption, but to overturn it. He added that for this purpose his team would do it so that citizens could contact the officials as little as possible. Our goal is a state in a smartphone, Zelensky explained. During the meeting, Freeland noted that in some areas, Canada could take an example from Ukraine. In particular, this applies to the system of electronic declarations. The Canadian Foreign Minister stated that Zelensky could count on Canada's support on the international stage. According to Zelensky's press service, the parties also discussed the ways for a peaceful settlement of the conflict in eastern Ukraine. We have a chance to stop the fire and return Donbas, Volodymyr Zelensky said. It was also discussed about a powerful Ukrainian representation at the conference on support of reforms in Ukraine which would be held in Toronto in July 2019. As it was reported earlier, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary George Kent met with President-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. George Kent, the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the European and Eurasian Bureau at the U.S. Department of State came to Kyiv May 8. Kent is supposed to meet with Ukrainian colleagues; the sides are to discuss political and economic reforms in Ukraine and the ongoing Russian aggression. "Operation Mincemeat" was a British World War II counterintelligence operation that used a dead body to mislead Germany about Allied plans to invade Sicily in 1943. Ben Macintyre's excellent book "Operation Mincemeat: How a Dead Man and a Bizarre Plan Fooled the Nazis and Assured an Allied Victory" will now be the basis for a new movie. Colin Firth, Best Actor winner for "The King's Speech" and star of the Kingsman movies, will play intelligence officer Ewen Montagu. The movie will be helmed by "Shakespeare in Love" director John Madden. Madden told Variety, "In the context of World War II narratives, the story of Operation Mincemeat is unique -- a bizarre and seductive cinematic blend of high-level espionage and ingenious fiction, where the stakes could hardly be higher. Michelle Ashford's script fuses multiple strands and moods: tense, romantic, thrilling, unexpectedly funny, and endlessly surprising. It tells a richly human story of the soldiers we seldom see, who fight a different kind of war in shadows and deception, haunted by the knowledge that certainty and guarantee of success are nowhere to be found." In the real-life version, British intelligence dressed a hobo's corpse as an officer of the Royal Marines and gave him ID as the fictitious Captain (Acting Major) William Martin. They left "Top Secret" papers on his body that showed an Allied plan to invade Greece and Sardinia with notes that stated any indications of a Sicilian invasion were merely a feint to fool the Axis. The Germans bit on the bait, and the operation helped ensure the success of the invasion of Sicily. The movie version is set to go into production later this year. At the end of 2018, Maria Fradinho designs and builds her own office and home, on a 940 m2 lot, located on the outskirts of Ilhavo, Portugal. The land is located by the door of Vista Alegre, a place beloved by the architect, whose name is due to its origin, Vista Alegre Porcelain Factory, one of the most important industries in the region, and the country. It is in this factory that the author is inspired, because that place so requested. She seeks references in industrial architecture to materialize the dwelling as a uniform body, coated with metallic materials and where the interior is independent of its outer casing. The Arch House follows the continuity of the neighbour buildings, with the main facade ensuring the alignment with the consolidated pre-existence. However, it is stylized to allow the permeability of light and views, in a symbolic game of association with the presence of the Arch, which marks the entrance to the place of Vista Alegre. Photo Ivo Tavares Studio This debugging work creates the crowning of this facade, and assumes itself as a drawing of any child My house! The theatricality of this facade gives name to the project, but this one is not defined by this alone. The house recedes in relation to the described urban facade, creating a semi-private space of internal protection a front patio that allows the main facade to be completely open, made of large glass windows. The patio is the moment of rupture of the outside environment, preparing us for the new reality of the interior. It is a bridge linking two seemingly contiguous but truly different realities. The entrance hall is a small wooden box, where we fell cosy and welcome, but immediately after we are marvelled by the light and the high ceiling of the living room. It was important for the architect to guarantee this process of transition from the public to the private, as well as ensuring adequate privacy in the interior, because of the maximum exposure desired. Inspired by ship containers, the volume set with which the interior is developed, creates a total height in some areas, recreating the great industrial environment of a main ship. Photo Ivo Tavares Studio This set of different roof heights widens the spaces and makes them more comprehensive, providing a visual relation between the various places in the house. This way, it is ensured the feel of a single space occupied by smaller elements, which are distributed trough the building in a sliding movement along its length, creating a rhythm that breaks the monotony of the outer body of the building. In a shameless way, the back facade is fully glazed in order to relate with the green backyard, ensuring the direct relation with the outside. All the boxes inside get the chance to relate to this facade with the same hierarchy, as they all are turned into the same big window. Due to construction restrictions, the basement floor designed for the atelier wasnt built. This decision forced a global redesign but it was ensured the minimum changes to the original project of the house. The Arch House is, therefore, the combination of these three assumptions: the theatricality of the urban facade, the complexity of the pretended use versus the industrial inspiration and the limitations of the plot, that, together, makes this house a complex and unique piece of architecture!. Source by FRARI. Photo Ivo Tavares Studio Photo Ivo Tavares Studio Photo Ivo Tavares Studio Rob M. Hemp was legalized nationally last year when President Trump signed the Farm Bill. It defined hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3 percent THC by volume and removed it from the federal list of controlled substances. It also meant a new market was open for the taking, and New Mexican investors are apparently dancing to get in. Jeff Apodaca, who you may recall as a former Democratic gubernatorial candidate (and the only one to schmooze up the cannabis vote), threw the Albuquerque Journal this quotable line last week: Pretty soon, when you talk about New Mexico, youll be talking about green chile, pecans and hemp. With its history of farming and agriculture, New Mexico is the perfect place for hemp companies to blossom and proliferate. Apodaca told reporters that he's developing a hemp business and has joined several partners in investing in other hemp-related businesses in the state. He called it a gold rush. State leaders have signaled their willingness to facilitate the new industry with a set of laws that were overwhelmingly approved earlier this year that expanded hemp production and established Centers of Excellence at New Mexico institutions of higher education that will train students in hemp science. A bill providing for the regulation of production, testing, research, manufacturing and transport of hemp, hemp extract and hemp-finished products was also signed into lawthe Hemp Manufacturing Act. In a press release, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said hemp would play a key role in the diversification of New Mexico's economy. The legalization of hemp is obviously a boon to industry and a win for our moral health. But its also a symptom of the schizophrenic turn our nation has taken in recent years. Despite the Journal's assertion that hemp belongs to the cannabis species of plants like marijuana and that the plants can appear nearly identical, a Google consultation and five minutes of research (or actually reading the Farm Bill that youre reporting on) will tell you that hemp is marijuana. There's no difference outside of THC content. So the federal government literally legalized some cannabis while leaving the rest on the chopping block. The new rules have already caused headaches for the owners of a truck containing 7,000 pounds of a green, leafy substance that the owners of the truck claimed was industrial hemp. Back in January, Idaho State Police said theyd made the biggest drug bust in history when they seized the truck. Last week a federal judge released the test results: It was hemp. Nevertheless, its unclear if the owners, Big Sky Scientific, are going to get their property back. Apparently an Idaho judge ruled against a lawsuit filed by the company demanding the return of its product and vehicle, since hemp is still illegal in the state. Well that's a weird version of an old tune. The Red Eyes of Texas And if you dont think Im starting to sound like a broken record about the times yetthey are a-changinthen you need to get those ears irrigated and listen up. Texas is shocking the nation by initiating a marijuana reform revolution. Last month the the Texas House of Representatives approved a bill that would decriminalize possession of an ounce or less of cannabis, slapping perpetrators with a $500 fine and a class C misdemeanor instead of jail time. According to Forbes, it passed by a vote of 98 to 43. This might not seem like a big deal, since you live in one of the most marijuana-friendly states in the union (despite our lawmakers tongue-in-cheek decision to pass on legalizing recreational cannabis earlier this year), but Texas is famous for its draconian and weirdly overreactive cannabis laws. Right now, if someone gets caught with a joint (or a smear of cannabis resin, as my high school girlfriend found out in the 90s) they'll probably get hit with a class B misdemeanor, up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. They could lose their drivers license. The judge presiding over the case has the option (which they often take) of entering the offender into a probation program that can include monthly fees and drug testing for extended periods of time. I grew up in Houston during the 90s and the aughts, and at any given time, a significant chunk of my friends would be on probation for marijuana. Theyd all have a horror story of jail time. It was ridiculous, and, thankfully, something most of my readers will never have to worry about. And hopefully lawmakers in The Lone Star State will soon join us in leaving such beastly practices in the dust, where they belong. Its likely well see it cross Gov. Greg Abbotts desk in the future. I'll be watching his reaction intently. Also on the table is a bill to expand the medical cannabis program in Texas. I put that in quotations because the program only gives patients suffering from intractable epilepsy access to cannabis oil that boasts less than 0.5 percent THC. Only 576 people were enrolled in the program in January, according to the Texas Tribune. Returning to my initial point, though: The fact that Texans are considering changes to marijuana policy should be a signal that America is increasingly sliding toward a new world. Ill wake you up when we get there. Runs through 05/18/2019. Named after the wounded Fisher King of Arthurian Legend, A Prairie Fisher King espouses the notion of home as both a site of idealization and a locus for wounding. Drawing from memory, a narrative is woven in the form of photographs and text of the rural Iowa countryside where my family has lived for generations. A Prairie Fisher King is an ongoing body of work reflecting on the nature of familial hardship and generational connection through the lens of place. An undertone of violence embodies the emotional distress accumulated with age as well as a looming threat posed upon the landscape. Initially conceived as a bittersweet love letter to home, A Prairie Fisher King considers the various myths we construct in order to survive in the face of inevitable change. Through the accumulation of intimately described detail a search for reconciliation becomes palpable. I assume the role of reluctant hero and return to seek the damaged king, to seal old wounds and to salve the land. __________________________________________ Chelsea Darter received her MFA at Columbia College Chicago in 2018 and her BFA from The University of Iowa in 2013. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and featured online by Light Leaked, Aint-Bad, and Fraction Magazine. Her personal work explores themes of place attachment, class, familial connection and local mythologies. She lives and works in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Local Election Act, passed by the New Mexico Legislature in 2018, calls for broad election reforms to municipal voting practices in cities across the state. Among the mandates: Local elections will be timed to happen within a framework centered on the first Tuesday of November in election years. City voters no longer have to worry about different dates for nonpartisan municipal elections, November runoffs, school board or water conservation district elections that happen in the middle of February or randomly throughout the year. The new consolidated system is designed to attract more voters per election and eliminate extra, costly separate voting periods by holding an all-encompassing vote that includes all the aforementioned on one ballot. Bond issue and tax levy elections, like the much-derided APS funding vote that came and went earlier this year, are now handled as mail-in procedures. The poor ballot return rate and subsequent poor outcome of that election has some wondering whether all these reforms will work out in a demonstrably useful way. But perhaps the most important part of this new law involves the implementation of ranked choice votingalso known as instant runoff votingin municipalities across the state. Some citiesthose with nonpartisan municipal elections with a runoffcan now opt into a system where voters rank candidates in a multi-candidate election. Due to the way the system works, theres never any need for a runoff and a winner always becomes clear, based on voter choice. Santa Fe has opted in. Las Cruces is about to do the same. And now our own City Council, including Pat Davis and Isaac Benton, is considering a similar move. We decided to go to the experts on this new fangled voting thing, Common Cause New Mexico, to find out exactly what ranked choice voting means for the citizens of Albuquerque. Maria Perez, an expert on the subject, spoke at length with Weekly Alibi. Here are the details in print. Weekly Alibi: Hi Maria, do you have a few minutes to talk to our readers about ranked choice voting? Maria Perez: Oh yeah! First, can you tell our readers a little bit about yourself and your organization, Common Cause? I am the campaign manager for Common Cause New Mexico. I started late last year. Previous to that, I was the director of Fair Vote New Mexico. Common Cause is a national organization that works on holding power accountable. What do you mean by holding power accountable? What I mean by that is making sure we are doing everything we can to mitigate the influence of money in politics. We work on a lot of projects, including redistricting, to make sure that voters have a voice. We were instrumental in assisting with ethics legislation here in New Mexico. We want to ensure that theres a process so that citizens can file complaints and that those complaints will be followed up on. How did Common Cause get involved in election reform and ranked choice voting? Ranked choice voting is a project I was working on in my previous role at Fair Vote New Mexico. We got ranked choice voting implemented in Santa Fe last year and adopted in Las Cruces, too. Let me clarify something. Does ranked choice voting only apply to municipal elections? In the State of New Mexico, yes, thats correct. Okay, tell me more about it then. Let me back up a little. Thats the work I was doing with Fair Vote New Mexico. As of last year, Common Cause was one of our partners in that work. They decided they would like to take the lead in this transition. So they absorbed the work and me as a staffer, so I could continue to move the project forward. What exactly is ranked choice voting? Its a really basic change in the way we hold local elections. It has really profound effects on voting. In a nutshellas a voter when you get your ballot at a local electioninstead of just choosing one candidate above all the others, you get to rank the candidates on your ballot in order of preference. So you can mark your favorite candidate as number one. But in case they dont have enough popular support to win, you are also going to mark your second, third and fourth choice candidates and so onyour backup choiceson that same ballot. That creates an instant runoff. Were not asking voters to come back 45 days later for a runoff election. Voters get to decide who their backup choices are in that one ranked election. So this system only works when there are multiple candidates for one office in a nonpartisan election, right? Thats right. Ranked choice voting ballots will only be triggered if there are more than two candidates in a race. Ive read that supporters of this form of voting say it encourages democracy to flourish. How so? I think that theres many ways to talk about that. The most obvious way is that it does away with the split vote. Lets say that there are three candidates for mayor. There are going to be a few candidates who have similar platforms. The vote is going to be split among those three. There will be no clear majority, no single candidate will reach 50 percent. Does ranked choice voting take place if one candidate does receive a majority of the votes? No. Voters can rank as many or as few of the candidates as they desire. But as soon as the polls close, only the number one votes are considered. If one of the candidates receives 50 percent or more of the vote, then the election is over. But in a case where the vote was split? Then ranked choice voting comes into play. Okay, then what happens? In those cases, the candidate with the least first-place votes is eliminated and then the voters who chose THAT candidate as their favorite have their next choice count as their vote. If a voter chooses only one candidate and that candidate is eliminated, then basically that voter is saying they arent interested in the other candidates or a runoff election. In addition to making the election process more efficient and definitive by ending the need for a second round of elections, Ive heard that this plan has economic advantages too. What are they? Thats correct. As a new state law, the Local Election Act, cities are being asked to consolidate local elections. Some municipalities have had nine or 10 local elections. Voters never knew when elections were coming up, what elections were under way, et cetera. The state legislature mandated single elections so that the voters would only have to show up one time to speak their voice The state is committed to paying for those consolidated local elections. Did cities used to have to pay for those nonpartisan local elections? In the past, yes. But not with ranked choice, not with consolidated local elections. Now, the state wont pay for local runoff elections. If the city decides to have two separate elections, the state wont support that, financially. Ive heard that this new method will also encourage a larger turnout. Yes. Weve seen, in the cities that have already adopted ranked choice voting, that candidates have to reach out to voters beyond their base of support. In most cases [with several candidates], its mathematically impossible to win with just first choice votes. Because of that, candidates stretch well beyond their base, seeking more constituents. They knock on more doors. As a result, voters are engaged by more and different candidates and therefore become more knowledgeable about the entire process. Voting by this method is intrinsically more exciting, but most importantly, it represents a truly vibrant and involved democracy. Has an option for ranked choice been introduced here in our City Council? The proposed ordinance was introduced by Councilor Benton and is cosponsored by Councilors Davis and Winter. Do you expect that there will be action on this plan by the time of Novembers municipal election? It has to to go through the finance committee, by Monday, May 13. If it advances, it will be up for a vote before the entire council on June 3. The state needs to know if Albuquerque is going to adopt ranked choice voting by June 30. Thats our timeline. Study suggests crash location of MH370 near 25S, north of underwater search area MIAMI--A new analysis of Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 found that the most probable crash site in the Indian Ocean is near 25S, north of the area where most of the underwater search missions were performed. The study, led by oceanographers at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (UM), applied probabilistic tools from nonlinear dynamics on all information that was known from the plane disappearance, including; data on the trajectories of unanchored drifting buoys from NOAA's Global Drifter Database, known oceanographic conditions during the time and the date and location of plane debris found along the coast of Reunion Island, Madagascar, Mauritius and coastal East African countries, to reverse model the most likely crash site in the southern Indian Ocean. "Monsoons play an important role in the dynamics of the Indian Ocean," said the study's lead author Philippe Miron, a postdoctoral associate at the UM Rosenstiel School. "It's a crucial piece of the puzzle to locate the most probable crash site since its influence on the dispersion of floating debris is quite significant." The disappearance of Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 in the southeastern Indian Ocean on March 8, 2014 in route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing remains one of the biggest aviation mysteries. With the loss of all 227 passengers and 12 crew members on board, flight MH370 is the second-deadliest incident involving a Boeing 777 aircraft. At a cost nearing $155 million, its search is the most expensive in aviation history. In January 2017, almost three years after the airplane disappearance, the Australian Government's Joint Agency Coordination Centre halted the search after failing to locate the airplane across more than 120,000 square kilometers in the eastern Indian Ocean. In 2018, Ocean Infinity, an ocean exploration company was unsuccessful in locating the aircraft during a several-month cruise. The data-based Markov-chain model developed by the researchers in this new study could also help scientists track oil spills, and other types of marine debris and pollutants in the ocean. ### The study, titled "Markov-chain-inspired search for MH370," was published April 30 in the journal Chaos: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Nonlinear Science. The study's authors include: Philippe Miron, Francisco J. Beron-Vera and Maria J. Olascoaga of the UM Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science and Peter Koltai from Freie Universitat Berlin. About the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School The University of Miami is one of the largest private research institutions in the southeastern United States. The University's mission is to provide quality education, attract and retain outstanding students, support the faculty and their research, and build an endowment for University initiatives. Founded in the 1940's, the Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science has grown into one of the world's premier marine and atmospheric research institutions. Offering dynamic interdisciplinary academics, the Rosenstiel School is dedicated to helping communities to better understand the planet, participating in the establishment of environmental policies, and aiding in the improvement of society and quality of life. For more information, visit: http://www. rsmas. miami. edu . This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. I was sitting in a traffic jam Friday and getting ever more steamed because I was already 20 minutes late. Adding to my dismay was that the local NPR station was running its spring fundraising drive and interrupting the programming every five minutes. Piling on top of that and irritating me further is that they were giving away stainless steel straws as a premium, complete with carrying bag and cleaning brush. You can guess where Im going with this, I suppose. I have a thing about stainless steel straws. They have become emblematic of a certain kind of environmental virtue signaling that I find particularly off-putting. (Standby, Im gonna deftly segue to airplanes here in a couple of lines.) Stainless steel straws are supposed to help mitigate the global scourge of disposable, single-use plastics. Thats a real thing, by the way, and needs attention, but doing it with straws you carry around in a little bag isnt it. Thats because its not a market-based solution, or at least not much of one, because when given the choice of a free toss-away straw and remembering your car keys, wallet, cellphone, sunglasses and your stupid metal straw, guess which youll pick? Were generally not burdened with virtue signaling in aviation because I can think of at least several avowed environmentalists who tool along in airplanes burning 18 gallons an houror more. Weve all made accommodations for this and Im the last guy to make a moral judgment about it given my hydrocarbon-rich lifestyle. Electric airplanes are, to a degree, virtue signaling, but I see that as a coattail to what they really representcreative people using new technology to fundamentally reshape flying machines. Less noise and lower emissions may actually eventually drive the market appeal, but for now, the entire nascent industry is in what I think will be an extended proof-of-concept phase. Early adopters will try to make them work economically, but performance-compromised as e-airplanes are, thats likely a niche for the next five years, if not longer. When I interview aviation people from Europe at Aero, Im always struck by the contrast in attitude toward environmental issues in aviation compared to the U.S. In Europe, Id call it acceptance/resignation and in the U.S. curiosity/dismissiveness. The EU is lathered with all kinds of regulations and if the air isnt noticeably cleaner there, its definitely a quieter place. Because regulators seem to target aviation, the industry there is more proactive in designing cleaner, quieter airplanes, hence the elevated interest in electrics. At a Rotax event five years ago, one of the executives told me that noise and emissions regulations were intrusive and annoying, but because the company wants to keep on selling engines of all kinds, it spends lot of R&D money on clean and quiet. Its no accident that the 912 iSs lean setting is called eco mode. That is a market-driven solution, by the way, somewhat forced by regulation. The 912 iS is not in every ultralight and light sport, but its probably in most of them. The 915 iS is finding traction both because of its higher horsepower, but also because its deemed to be more efficient and thus greener. But is it really, or just green shellac? I havent done the numbers on the 915, but the 912 iS definitely is more efficient. But efficient enough to to what? If youre after an airborne Prius, forget it. But when I was discussing electric airplanes with Dahers Nicolas Chabbert recently after Aero, he pointed out that whether we agree with emissions regulations on airplanes or not, theyre coming in some form and the aircraft industry needs to explore what it can to satisfy them. Thats in part why Daher got involved with Airbus on an electric airplane projectsince abortedand why, in part, it put autothrottles on the latest TBM 940 to eke a little efficiency out of the PT-6. The latter is a market-driven solution because it gives Daher a new model to sell. At Aero, I reported on another environmental conundrum for aviation, specifically the fact that as the FAA tidies up work on the Piston Aviation Fuel Initiative to certify an unleaded 100-octane fuel, the EPA seems unlikely to declare a lead finding of endangerment. Ergo, no pressure to get rid of the lead. Lycomings Michael Kraft suggested that overcoming this barrier will require that ever-popular MBA buzzword, the voice of the customer. Stainless steel straws here we come. But, wait a minute. I see an opening here. Other than the environmental argument, which Ive always seen as weak, the benefit of unleaded fuel is lower maintenance bills; no fouled sparkplugs, cleaner oil and less corrosion. So show me. I propose that GAMA, in concert with the engine manufacturers, put together a little demonstration and ad campaign to put some numbers on this. I can see it now heres your engine on 100LL, here it is on unleaded. Heres your oil and so forth. Perhaps that shifts it from green-washing to the market solution that can actually solve some of these problems without resorting to carting around your own straw and a brush. And by the way, just for the record, better than a plastic straw or a metal one are these candy cane paper straws. I buy them at the local Publix. Theyre both cheap and biodegradablethe perfect market solution. But my real reason for buying them is theyre nicer to use than plastic or metal. Note to Readers:No, its not something you said. Because of persistent denial of service attacks against AVweb, were moving the site to another platform. The commenting section will be unavailable for a time. We apologize for the inconvenience, but the site will be better for it in a week or two. In the meantime, if you have a comment,emailus and well append it to the blog. Didnt even know that these things (paper straws) were still being made! Andanother great column. Have you thought of running for political office? Richard Katz Youve hit the nail on the head. The consumers drive the market. One can force regulations down our throats, by mandating lead out of the fuels, leaner emissions, etc; and the consumer will grudgingly accept it when forced, and only when forced. But, what if the FAA starts saying things like, run on unleaded fuels and your 2000-hour TBO can become a 3000-hour TBO? Now you are going to get a buy in by the consumer, and in fact, the consumer will actually demand it. Has the Lycoming, Continental, or the FAA ever made mention of something like that? Not that I have ever heard. But that shows a lack of forward thinking on the part of the manufacturers. Those of us who have been around for more than a few decades can remember back in the 1960s when a car with 60,000 miles on it was considered to be worn out, and the engine was likely due for some major work. What happened, that now we routinely drive our cars 200,000 300,000 miles and they are still not worn out? (I own two with 250,000 and just sold one with 340,000 miles on it that still ran like new). Unleaded fuel is what happened. In 1974, new car engines were mandated to run on unleaded fuel. Jan 1, 1996, leaded gasoline was taken off the market for automobiles. This forced some changes in that the metallurgists had to come up with better valves and hardened valve seats. Additionally, since there was no longer lead in the fuel, and consequently present in the oil as a waste product for the oil to deal with, the lubricants also changed significantly. We have continued to hang onto the lead in aviation. The resistance of the consumer is incredible, and mostly based on ignorance of the benefits. Anyone that works on small Continentals can readily see the damage the lead build up does to the valve guides if an engine is run on 100LL. New engines get sticky exhaust valves, then the lead build up on the exhaust valve stems wears the guides prematurely, and the top end needs overhauled long before it should be due. But instead of demanding a change to the fuels, we still hang onto the lead to make the turbocharged and high compression guys happy, and so the FBOs dont have to carry multiple grades of fuel. Getting the lead out of avgas will also bring about an improvement in our lubricants as they will no longer have to deal with lead contamination. The metallurgical work as already been done for the automotive industry, and most newer aircraft cylinders already incorporate it. In the mean time, mechanics still deal with lead poisoning (although most are unaware and should be tested for high lead blood levels), and we continue to prematurely overhaul engines that would otherwise continue running for many long and happy hours if they had been operating on unleaded fuel. How many aiarcraft owners help with their annuals by spending an afternoon with a dental pick picking lead balls out of their spark plugs and contaminate themselves with lead salts in the process? We, as consumers, should be demanding a switch to unleaded fuels, or at the very least a phase down of leaded fuels back to the much lower content of the old 80-octane red gas (although with a higher 100-octane rating for the high-performance guys), then eventually to no lead. It would be better for our engines, it would be better for all of us the handle fuels or get fuel on our hands when draining the sumps on a plane, and for those of us that are mechanics that routinely work on lead contaminated engine parts. The auto industry did a 20-year phase down of leaded to unleaded fuels. And I recall all the griping about the government forcing unleaded fuels on us as consumers. Perhaps its time for the aviation industry to take a lesson from the auto industry and follow suit? Jeff Scott I agree with Paul Bertorelli that that virtue signaling is at most a coattail motive for switching to electric aircraft. There are so many tangible benefits that political correctness to the extent that a given pilot even cares about that absolutely pales in comparison. . 63 COVID-19 24 , - . ... Adolfo Garcia-Sastre of Mount Sinai elected to the National Academy of Sciences Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, PhD, Director of the Global Health and Emerging Pathogens Institute, and the Irene and Dr. Arthur M. Fishberg Professor of Microbiology and Medicine (Infectious Diseases) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), an honor signifying that a researcher has made outstanding contributions to the field. With his election, Mount Sinai has three current faculty members in the National Academy of Sciences: Dr. Garcia-Sastre; Maria Iandolo New, MD, Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine (Endocrinology), and Genetic and Genomic Sciences; and Peter Palese, PhD, Horace W. Goldsmith Professor and Chair of Microbiology, and Professor of Medicine (Infectious Diseases). For more than 20 years, Dr. Garcia-Sastre has researched the molecular biology of influenza viruses and several other negative-strand RNA viruses. His landmark contributions include the successful development of reverse genetics techniques allowing the recreation of the extinct pandemic influenza virus of 1918 from recombinant DNA. "It is with great honor that I congratulate my colleague Dr. Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, who has made great contributes to science," said Dr. Palese. "His work has enabled the reconstruction of the extinct 1918 influenza virus, has led to the identification of the biological role of the influenza virus NS1 protein as an interferon antagonist, and has informed continued efforts to develop a universal influenza virus vaccine. This is a great achievement and we are excited to see him continue this important work in the future." "Dr. Garcia-Sastre's research represents the frontier of his field," says Dennis S. Charney, MD, the Anne and Joel Ehrenkranz Dean of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. "The discoveries made by him and others at Mount Sinai will result in powerful new means to combat deadly viruses that affect millions of people and lay the groundwork for discovery of viruses yet known. This distinguished achievement is well-deserved." Dr. Garcia-Sastre has researched the generation and evaluation of several vaccine candidates against different diseases, including influenza, malaria, AIDS, and cancer; and identified the biological role of the non-structural protein NS1 of the influenza virus during infection. His studies provided the first description and molecular analysis of a viral-encoded peptide among negative strand RNA viruses, which led to a generation of influenza viruses that may prove to be optimal live virus vaccines against influenza. His work has resulted in more than 500 scientific publications and reviews, and his translational efforts include more than 50 patents and the development of viral vaccines in the veterinary and human fields. Dr. Garcia-Sastre also serves as Director of the Center for Research on Influenza Pathogenesis, one of five National Institutes of Health Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance. ### About the Mount Sinai Health System The Mount Sinai Health System is New York City's largest integrated delivery system, encompassing eight hospitals, a leading medical school, and a vast network of ambulatory practices throughout the greater New York region. Mount Sinai's vision is to produce the safest care, the highest quality, the highest satisfaction, the best access and the best value of any health system in the nation. The Health System includes approximately 7,480 primary and specialty care physicians; 11 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 410 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. The Icahn School of Medicine is one of three medical schools that have earned distinction by multiple indicators: ranked in the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report's "Best Medical Schools", aligned with a U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" Hospital, No. 12 in the nation for National Institutes of Health funding, and among the top 10 most innovative research institutions as ranked by the journal Nature in its Nature Innovation Index. This reflects a special level of excellence in education, clinical practice, and research. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 18 on U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" of top U.S. hospitals; it is one of the nation's top 20 hospitals in Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Nephrology, and Neurology/Neurosurgery, and in the top 50 in six other specialties in the 2018-2019 "Best Hospitals" issue. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked nationally in five out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 11th nationally for Ophthalmology and 44th for Ear, Nose, and Throat. Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Mount Sinai St. Luke's, Mount Sinai West, and South Nassau Communities Hospital are ranked regionally. For more information, visit http://www. mountsinai. org/ , or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. 16:50 | Lima, May. 8. The couple became the target of an investigation after Marcelo Odebrecht owner of the construction giant at the center of a vast international corruption case said he had contributed US$3 million to Humala's successful 2011 presidential campaign In 2014, the Humala administration awarded a consortium made up of Odebrecht, Spain's Enagas and Peru's Grana y Montero a contract to build the Southern Peruvian Gas Pipeline. In February, former Odebrecht executive Raymundo Trindade Serra told Peruvian authorities that he personally witnessed the company's then-representative in Peru, Jorge Barata, deliver US$1 million to Heredia for her husband's 2011 campaign. The companies agreed to pay a combined total penalty of at least $3.5 billion to resolve charges with authorities in the United States, Brazil, and Switzerland arising out of those schemes. Efe Agency: All rights are reserved. It is expressly prohibited reproduction without prior written permission from the Efe agency. (END) EFE/DTK/MVB Dalat Complex flavors, complex charm by M.B. Lewis From the May, 2019 issue Ordering the most familiar items on a menu is a quick way to take stock of a new restaurant--especially tempting when chicken bone broth pho is available on a wet and chilly Monday night. It's one of eight of the big-bowl soups at Dalat, the Vietnamese restaurant lately transplanted from Ypsilanti to the fork where Main St. and Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. meet. Dalat's pho was warming, with the wholesome simplicity of rice noodles, white-meat chicken, and nearly clear broth. Bit by bit the flavor intensifies via squeezes of lime and slices of jalapeno set afloat from the cute little platter of accompaniments. The bright, spicy, and earthy flavors contrast in isolation, then come together in a soothing way--kind of like Dalat's orange, green, and brown decor. Deep-fried egg rolls also satisfied, with crispy outsides, sturdy shredded vegetables and chicken inside, and a classic Vietnamese dipping sauce that is sweet, vinegary, and salty all at once. But then the smooth coast through familiar Vietnamese favorites hit a speed bump with the rice-noodle "paper"-wrapped goi cuon rolls. The shrimp was fine, but the iceberg lettuce was wilty, the bean sprouts had brown spots, and the peanut sauce was watery. My dining companion ordered more adventurously, and that paid off. I was impressed by the big crackly slabs of honeyed crust on his chicken wings. He bypassed chicken, beef, and shrimp and chose squid for the "protein option" in his #25 stir-fry and was pleased with the result. Atop a bed of rice, a pepper-flecked curry sauce united generous portions of tender squid, onion slices, cilantro sprigs, and kaffir lime leaves (stiff as bay leaves but deliciously aromatic). We dug into a shared dessert of fried bananas and ice cream while we waited for a to-go Vietnamese beef stew for a family member working late (he later reported that it was packed with meaty flavor but super salty). We also waited for a refill of tea, as we had waited ...continued below... earlier for utensils. And a server brought a second pho bowl to our table that we hadn't ordered. Though less than a quarter of the eighty-some seats were occupied, only two servers were on duty, and one seemed inexperienced. Both of them smiled apologetically as they caught up to our needs, and that goes a long way.---Our luck was a bit better on a second visit. There are good reasons that Dalat was successful for twenty-eight years in Ypsi and is already filling more than half of its tables at a Friday lunch. Relatively low prices are part of the success equation. Also, Dalat's approach to Vietnamese cuisine goes beyond the familiar. When the chefs hit homers, they're out of the park."Best tofu stir-fry I've ever had," a discriminating friend said at that lunch a week after my rainy-night dinner. Silky tofu worked well with crispy cabbage, bell peppers, carrots, mushrooms, and onions in a subtle sauce. I liked my chicken skewers with fried rice, but they might have gotten a little boring if not for tasty slaw made with the same excellent dipping sauce that came with the egg rolls.A companion who arrived late surprised us by turning over the laminated lunch menu and finding a back page of bento boxes that we hadn't seen; she liked the chicken version she chose. I had finished off my meal by then but wasn't overfull and decided, what the heck, to give Dalat a second chance on thesalad rolls. Indeed, they were much fresher than at my evening meal, and even the peanut sauce tasted better. Hmm, I thought--Sunday is the only day Dalat is closed, so perhaps Monday may not be the surest bet for freshness?One of our lunch orders had gotten mixed up again, and all staff (even the chefs, bringing food through the swinging doors from the kitchen) were bustling to accommodate the larger crowd. I watched a well-dressed Asian woman at a nearby table repeatedly lift an immaculately manicured hand to signal a server, failing to make contact, and then going back to her pho unperturbed. She finally caught someone's attention to bring her soy sauce, and, though by then she was more than half-done, received the condiment cheerfully.Complex food, complex charm. From how settled many diners seemed and how quickly they ordered, it seems clear that Dalat already has a lot of regulars. Next time I'll read deeper into the menu, maybe trying grated green papaya salad with pork, carrots, and cilantro topped with crushed roasted peanuts. Perhaps followed by banana pudding with tiny tapioca and coconut milk topped with crushed peanuts? I think I'd be up to it.Appetizers, salad, and soup $4.95-$12.95; dinner $8.95-$14.95; lunch $7.95-$10.50; dessert $2.95-$7.95.Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Closed Sun.Vegetarian selections available.Wheelchair accessible. [Originally published in May, 2019.] YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. May 9 is not only the day of the victory in the Great Patriotic War, but also the day of the liberation of Shushi and the creation of the Defense Army of Artsakh. On that day various celebrations are being held in Artsakh. Davit Babayan, spokesperson of the President of Artsakh, told ARMENPRESS that this year on May 9 traditional events will take place in the Republic of Artsakh. The day will start with the national march from the center of Stepanakert to the memorial complex where flowers and wreaths will be laid on the tombs of the victims of the Great Patriotic War and the Artsakh liberation war, then the march will continue to the tank memorial in Shushi, and again flowers will be laid on the memorial of Commander Vazgen Sargsyan, he said. Concert will take place in Stepanakert in the evening. Davit Babayan informed that every year Artsakh hosts foreign guests on the occasion of this day. This year as well there will be guests from abroad. Guests are also expected from Armenia and Diaspora. We expect the visit of the leadership of Armenia, as well as other political figures, he added. The Armenian government informed that on May 9 Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will depart for Artsakh. The office of the 3rd President of Armenia reported that Serzh Sargsyan will pay tribute to the memory of Armenians fallen during the Artsakh war and will participate in the victory day celebrations together with the people of Artsakh. The liberation of Shushi became a turning point in the Karabakh war and outlined the path for future victories. 27 years ago on May 9, the Armenian forces accomplished the mission Wedding in the Mountains, liberating Shushi. During the night of May 8, at 2:30, after capturing military positions of Kirs and taking under control the Lachin- Shushi road, the Armenian forces entered Shushi. The Armenian flag is raised at the top of the St. Ghazanchetsots Cathedral (Cathedral of Christ the Holy Savior), marking the liberation of Shushi. The anniversary of the establishment of the Defense Army of Artsakh Republic is also celebrated on May 9. The Defense Army was created on May 5, 1992. Reported by Ani Danielyan Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. A German citizen has died near Khor Virap Monastery in Armenias Ararat Province, police said. Authorities described the incident as a sudden death, indicating that foul-play wasnt involved. Police said the 70-year-old German national was dead on arrival at the Vedi Medical Center on May 4. Police are investigating the incident. Other details werent immediately clear. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. At the invitation of Armenian President Armen Sarkssian, the delegation of famous French company, Dassault Systemes, including Vice President Christian Nardin and Senior Director, Global Academia Programs, Xavier Fouger, will arrive in Armenia, the Presidential Office told Armenpress. During his working visits in France in November 2018 and February 2019 the Armenian President had meetings with the company executives proposing to consider the cooperation opportunities. The sides highlighted the great cooperation potential in education, science and technologies and expressed readiness to implement joint programs, as well as agreed over the visit of the company representatives to Armenia. Thus, turning this agreement into reality, the delegation of the Dassault Systemes, will arrive in Armenia on May 9. The company representatives will meet with President Armen Sarkissian, Secretary of the Security Council Armen Grigoryan, will visit the Yerevan State University, the French University of Armenia, Ayb School, Quantum College, Synopsys Armenia, TUMO Center for Creative Technologies, PicsArt and Betconstruct offices. They will also meet with the IT company representatives during which the opportunities to implement joint projects in Armenia by the company will be discussed. Dassault Systemes is a subsidiary of the Dassault Group created in 1981. It develops and markets PLM software and services that support industrial processes by providing a 3D vision of the entire lifecycle of products from conception to maintenance. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Zohrab Mnatsakanyan held a meeting with George Kent, the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the European and Eurasian Bureau at the US Department of State. Kent is visiting Armenia together with officials from USAID, the US Department of Commerce and State Department bureaus to participate in the Armenia-USA Strategic Dialogue session. Mnatsakanyan told Kent that the Armenian-American relations are on a rather firm basis, and that Armenia is committed to take steps for further strengthening the bilateral agenda, according to a readout published by the foreign ministry. In this context, both parties emphasized the organization of the Armenian-American Strategic Dialogue, as well as the regular meetings and mutual-visits that take place in various formats, which enable to discuss actions for enhancing the agenda of partnership. The FM presented the domestic political developments of Armenia and the ongoing reforms by the government based on the broad mandate of the people. In this regard Mnatsakanyan attached importance to the continuity of cooperation with international partners, aimed at encouraging the democratic reforms in Armenia and strengthening the recorded achievements. A broad circle of issues related to bilateral and multilateral partnership was discussed, and ideas were exchanged on several pressing issues of the regional and international agenda. Mnatsakanyan also presented the Armenian sides approaches and principled stance in the NK conflicts peaceful settlement process. The United States, together with Russia and France, is a co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the international group that spearheads the OSCEs efforts in finding a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh (NK) conflict. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Following long debates, the Parliament of Armenia completely adopted the bill on making changes in the composition of the government. 79 MPs voted in favor of the bill, 41 voted against and 1 abstained. Before the voting MP of the opposition Prosperous Armenia faction Mikayel Melkumyan and head of the opposition Bright Armenia faction Edmon Marukyan announced that their factions will vote against the bill. Based on the adoption of the bill, the government will consist of the following ministries: Ministry of foreign affairs Ministry of defense Ministry of emergency situations Ministry of justice Ministry of labor and social affairs Ministry of education, science and culture Ministry of nature protection Ministry of healthcare Ministry of finance Ministry of economy Ministry of territorial administration and infrastructures Ministry of high technological industry Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Through legislative changes, Armenian commercial banks were enabled to pardon fines and penalties of 20,000 citizens who had unpaid loans, a total of 11,5 billion drams, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said at a press conference on his 1st year in office. The PM was presenting 100 facts on reforms. He said the loan history of nearly 125,000 people has been cleared. 1 billion 300 million drams in loans that were issued preferentially to 303 repressed people and their descendants have also been pardoned. Pashinyan noted that during this period the Government of Armenia has granted 49 companies custom tax exemptions, 15 of which received additional VAT payment delay privileges, as a result of which nearly 255 billion drams is invested and 4000 workplaces are created. An additional 7 investment programs have been granted VAT delay opportunities to invest nearly 21 billion drams and open 444 workplaces, he said. Pashinyan also highlighted the unprecedented decision on 50-70% spending return to SMEs who operate smart farms. The Armenian PM also emphasized the business training courses in provinces, whereby 120 new businesses have been opened, 56 of which have received governmental financial support. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. The roadmap for the implementation of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is at the final agreement stage with the European Union: the roadmap includes 205 actions in justice, transport, energy, environment, protection of consumer rights, migration and other areas, Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during todays press conference. He added that the EU has expressed its satisfaction over the draft roadmap as a good starting point for the implementation of the CEPA. 3 agreements, worth 34.5 million Euros, have been signed in the fields of education, justice and economic relations under the EUs 2017 action plan within the frames of the Armenia-EU partnership. 2 agreements, worth 36 million Euros, have been signed in areas of strengthening democracy and territorial development under the EUs 2018 action plan within the frames of the Armenia-EU cooperation. Another programs worth 20 million Euros are at the discussion stage, the PM said. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Healthcare Minister of Armenia Arsen Torosyan, together with ministry staffers, received the Gardasil Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine live on air today to raise awareness on it importance. He said they wanted to show that the vaccine is safe, important, and is aimed at protecting from the potentially fatal disease. The Healthcare Minister said the vaccine is manufactured by the worlds leading vaccine producer, He said his wife has also been vaccinated, as well as many minor daughters of his ministry staffers. Torosyan reminded that nearly 120 women die annually in Armenia from cervical cancer. By introducing the vaccination we seek to reach a zero indicator in nearest 10 years. Vaccinations save lives, he said. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has emphasized that the current administration system in Armenia is not a so-called Super-Prime Ministerial one, referring to the powers vested in the prime minister after the country transitioned into a parliamentary system. At a press conference today on the occasion of the 1st year in office as Prime Minister, Pashinyan was asked by ARMENPRESS whether or not the Government plans to change the Super-Prime Ministerial system, to which he answered that the so-called system doesnt exist at all. How many times have the current developments taken place in Armenia during the past 30 years, he asked in response. Can you explain to me why the Super-Prime Ministerial machine is under the spotlight? The super-prime ministerial system isnt only the laws and legal tools. A Super-Prime Minister is someone who says you will import sugar and you will not. Im giving the banana business to you, the petroleum business to another one, here this man must be elected mayor, this criminal case must be dropped or not and so on. This is a Super-Prime Ministerial system, he said, denying its existence in present times. Have you seen a super-prime minister who testifies as a witness in court, he asked. Some say this is a show. This isnt a show, this is a demonstration of political will. The Super-Prime Ministerial system is eliminated in Armenia, because there cannot be a Super-Prime Minister in a democratic country, Pashinyan said. He said that a Super-Prime Ministerial system is when an individual or a group of people keep power and refuse to hand it over to someone else. I am saying that I dont have power in Armenia, power belongs to the people. There cant be a Super-Prime Minister in a country where power belongs to the people, he said. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Defense minister of Armenia Davit Tonoyan says the situation in the Armenian-Azerbaijani border is relatively stable. I assess the situation as relatively stable, all actions are being taken to avoid problems, he told reporters in Yerablur military pantheon. Asked how he reacts to the petition for giving legal status to the Armenia-Artsakh strategic alliance, the minister said it is more of a political process. I wouldnt like to give an assessment, but all this exists in my heart, he said. On May 7 the Armenia-Artsakh Strategic Alliance forum was held in Stepanakert with the agenda to raise the legal relations of the two republics to a new level. The process on signing a comprehensive partnership agreement between the two Armenian states has launched during the forum. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. On May 8, following the U.S.-Armenia Strategic Dialogue in Yerevan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Government of Armenia signed extensions to two bilateral agreements to support Armenias private sector and democratic development, the U.S. Embassy in Armenia told Armenpress. USAID Bureau for Europe and Eurasias Deputy Assistant Administrator Alexander Sokolowski, USAID/Armenia Mission Director Deborah Grieser, and the Acting Chief of Staff of the Office of the Armenian Prime Minister Tsovinar Soghomonyan signed an extension of the U.S.-Armenia bilateral agreement in the area of governance and public administration, adding $8.5 million to the agreement. Since the inception of this agreement in 2013, USAID has provided a total of $35.1 million to support Armenias democratic development. Under the extended agreement, USAID will continue to work with the Government of Armenia and local stakeholders to support a more participatory, transparent and accountable system of governance at national and local levels, enhance the countrys legal and regulatory environment, develop the professional skills of civil society organizations and independent media, and improve service delivery for citizens. USAID also signed a second bilateral agreement with the Minister of Economic Development and Investments Tigran Khachatryan, USAID added $7.5 million to the $80.7-million U.S.-Armenia bilateral agreement to support a more competitive and diversified private sector in Armenia. Programs will facilitate innovation across multiple industries, enhance the skills of industry workforce, and improve the business enabling environment. Activities will also help improve key infrastructure services, such as energy and water, vital for enterprise growth and development. USAID has collaborated with the Government of Armenia since the establishment of the Armenian mission in 1992. Today, USAID/Armenia implements approximately 30 projects to help increase Armenias economic growth and competitiveness, promote civic participation and participatory governance, expand access to quality healthcare, and improve the welfare and social inclusion of vulnerable children while promoting inclusive education and equal access to communit YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Russian President Vladimir Putin will arrive in Armenia on October 1, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during todays press conference in Yerevan. Not only the President of Russia, but also the leaders of the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union will arrive in Armenia for the EAEU Supreme Economic Councils session. Its a very important event in Armenia and a very pleasant occasion to see our partners in Yerevan, he said. The Armenian PM also informed that working dialogues will also take place on the sidelines of this event. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has commented on the recent letter that Artsakhs leaders sent to Armenias Prosecutor General seeking the release of ex-President Robert Kocharyan. The PM reiterated the Prosecutor Generals reaction, noting that the case is not under the jurisdiction of the Prosecutor General and that President Bako Sahakyans advisers shouldve given the latter correct advice. Even if the Prosecutor General wanted to, he cant do it. Therefore, it is inappropriate to send a petition someplace which isnt the addressee. Regarding the letter, from a humane perspective I can understand, because I suppose they have friendly relations, but nevertheless questions arise. For example, currently Hero of Artsakh Manvel Grigoryan is also jailed, why didnt they ask for him also in the petition? If we are maintaining the principle, then in this case too we are dealing with a Hero of Artsakh. If some assume that the criminal charges of Manvel Grigoryan are heavier than Robert Kocharyans, they are sadly mistaken. Therefore we must understand what principle is applied. It cannot happen that my friends appear above the law. If my friends arent above the law, than no ones friends can be above the law, Pashinyan said. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian met with the teaching staff of the Institute of Law and Politics of the Russian-Armenian University, the Presidential Office told Armenpress. The meeting touched upon the reforms carried out in judicial and education systems, as well as the issues on supplementing the state and judicial system with highly qualified personnel. The President listened to the opinions of the guests on the candidates for the position of the judge of the Constitutional Court. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan considers work as a real way of overcoming poverty in the country. During todays press conference the PM brought his example and stated that he has passed through all social thresholds of each citizen of Armenia, except from wealth. I have never been rich, but I overcame my poverty with my work, he said. The PM said the government should encourage the people so that they have a chance to work. Currently we are providing opportunities to the people, he said. Touching upon the use of the international practice, Pashinyan said the international experience can be viewed as knowledge and Armenia can create its own one based on that. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian met with the Chairman and members of the Board of the Chamber of Advocates, the Presidential Office told Armenpress. The meeting touched upon the reforms carried out in judicial and education systems, as well as the issues on supplementing the state and judicial system with highly qualified personnel. The President listened to the opinions of the guests on the candidates for the position of the judge of the Constitutional Court. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Armenia is trying to establish new level relations with the United States, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said at a press conference on his 1st year in office. Pashinyan noted that basically the relations with the US began in a new format on May 7, with the first session of the Armenian-American Strategic Dialogue. In any relations we expect that these relations must be in line with the new status of Armenia, and Armenia does indeed have a new status today. Today, Armenia is a leading democracy, and we must rely on this reality in all relations, the Armenian PM said. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan says Armenia should be more ambitious in relations with China. During todays press conference with reporters in Yerevan, the PM said he is planning to visit China soon where he will meet with the countrys leadership. I will meet with the President and the Prime Minister of China. We will also take part in the Asian Civilization forum, the Armenian PM said. He added that this visit is a good chance in terms of boosting the Armenian-Chinese relations. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. A session of the Armenian-Georgian intergovernmental commission is expected to be held in Armenia this year in June, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during todays press conference. He informed that it is planned to hold a business forum. I have put a task to bring the roads from Bagratashen to Yerevan to the highest quality. The roads must be in normal condition in order for that trade turnover to take place. We are constantly discussing with our partners of the South-Caucasus Railway CJSC the quality of railway communication, the tariff policy. We must create a field for the businessmen to work, the Armenian PM said. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. The delegation of the National Assembly of Armenia led by President of the parliament Ararat Mirzoyan will depart for Artsakh, Stepanakert on May 8 to participate in the festive events of May triple holiday - the victory of the Great Patriotic War, the Liberation of Shushi and the anniversary of the Artsakh Defense Armys establishment, ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the parliament of Armenia. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Commotion has descended upon one of Yerevans oldest neighborhoods since early Wednesday morning. People hurrying to Kond neighborhood with their cameras on stand-by, noise and excitement all over the place. The reason? Armenian pop start Sirusho is in the block, shooting her latest music video. She had told her fans in advance via Instagram that she will be in Kond, and the area was full of fans. Kond, a neighborhood within downtown of the city, mostly known for its ever-lasting halted construction projects, traffic jams and simplicity, is probably one of the best places one can see the quintessential Armenian everyday, ordinary things, such as backgammon games, music and neighborhood life. And todays sneak-peek into Sirushos upcoming video seemingly showed that the pop star wants to include all of this in the clip. Sirusho herself was seen playing backgammon, dancing on a cars hood and having fun during the shooting. Being in character as a woman playing backgammon was unusual for me. This time we tried to emphasize the Armenian character from the side that hasnt been addressed before. We are mostly trying to present the Armenian culture with all its tones, through various solutions, Sirusho told reporters at the shooting location. The pop star is filming a music video for her version of Zoma Zoma, an old Armenian folk song, most commonly known as . The song was famously re-composed by Komitas, the renowned 20th century musicologist and founder of the Armenian national school of music. This isnt the first time Sirusho is turning to Komitas as inspiration: her popular song PreGomesh was also a remix of a Komitas folk song. She performed her version of Zoma Zoma most recently at the DIAFA Awards, where she became the first Armenian to be awarded the Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards. Zoma Zoma is one of the songs that we wanted to film a music video all the time, but we couldnt find the missing part that was needed for the clip, she said, adding that after discussions and lengthy search, they understood that the music video should be filmed in Kond. Sirusho says she is visiting the neighborhood for already a few days and is meeting the locals. Edited and translated by Stepan Kocharyan YEREVAN, MAY 8, ARMENPRESS. Russia, as an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair country, has introduced the results of the recent meeting of Russian, Armenian and Azerbaijani foreign ministers held in Moscow in mid-April, as well as the joint statement, to OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters during a press briefing. Based on the results of the meeting in Moscow, the interest of Armenia and Azerbaijan on the prospects to establish cooperation in the humanitarian sector has been registered. The talk is about the future stabilization of the situation in the conflict zone, in particular, during agricultural works, the visits of relatives to the persons detained in the territories of the countries, as well as the readiness to start taking practical steps for establishment of contacts between the peoples, including also the mutual visits of media representatives, Zakharova said. She added that Thomas Greminger affirmed the OSCEs commitment to continue providing support to the settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict. At the initiative of Russia, a working meeting between Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, Azerbaijani Minister of Foreign Affairs Elmar Mammadyarov and Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov took place on April 15th in Moscow, which was also attended by OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America, as well as Andrzej Kasprzyk, the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office. Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan An Arab human-rights activist who worked with slain editorialist Jamal Khashoggi said Wednesday he was briefly placed under police protection in Norway owing to threats on his life. Iyad el-Baghdadi, a Palestinian blogger and author who sought asylum in Norway in September 2015, said he was exfiltrated from his home by agents from the PST interior security service for a few hours on April 25 following a tip-off. "They told me that they had received a tip from a partner agency indicating that I'm a target," Baghdadi told AFP. The Norwegian service declined to comment, but the British newspaper The Guardian, which broke the story, said it was the CIA that alerted Norwegian colleagues. "It's not clear at this point what the threat is, it's vague and this is a problem. I believe that they did not want to take chances," remarked Baghdadi, 41. "The sensitive work that I've been doing has been about Saudi Arabia. I have been informed that they have their eyes on me since October," he added. On October 2, Khashoggi entered the Saudi embassy in Istanbul and was never seen again. Turkey has accused Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of responsibility for Kashoggi's murder. "If the Saudi regime gets away with what they did to Jamal Khashoggi, then none of us are safe," Baghdadi said October 9 on Twitter. "Everything changes for us then, and we live in a state of constant vigilance." Baghdadi says he had worked on projects with Khashoggi and promised to say more during a press conference scheduled for next Monday. Norwegian authorities have warned him meanwhile to cancel a planned trip to Malaysia, where his parents and sister live, Baghdadi said, adding that they too were under threat. Human rights activist, author and blogger Iyad el-Baghdadi says he was briefly placed under government protection in Norway Brazilian Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo forecast Wednesday a peaceful change of regime in neighbouring Venezuela while ruling out a military option, in an interview with AFP in Rome. A supporter of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, Araujo said he hoped efforts to get Venezuelan military units to back Guaido would bear fruit. "There is a movement, a dynamic. It's perhaps longer than we would like but it is solid," Araujo, speaking in French, said at the beginning of a European tour. A week ago, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said Guaido had not failed in his bid to overthrow the leftist regime of Nicolas Maduro, saying a "crack" has been opened that could bring down the government. Araujo began his European visit in Rome with a message of reassurance for leaders wary of Bolsonaro's diplomatic and environmental intentions. He told AFP that the world sometimes had a "very superficial vision" of the far-right Brazilian leader, who he stressed was backed by a majority in the giant Latin American country. Araujo said that dire forecasts of a spike in violence following Bolsonaro's victory had proved wrong, and that the murder rate had fallen by 25 percent since the president took office on January 1. Recent opinion polls show a sharp drop in the president's approval ratings since the election, although just over half of those polled still back him. - 'Respectful' of Brazil's environment - The foreign minister also sought to present Brazil as a country that respected its unique environment, that was fighting against deforestation and promoting "a modern agriculture that does not occupy tropical forest zones. "There are studies that show clearly, contrary to what is sometimes said, that the occupation of land by agriculture is very respectful of the environment," he insisted. According to the non-governmental organisation Imazon, deforestation that had fallen sharply in the Amazon basin from 2004 to 2012, rose by 54 percent in January compared with the same month a year earlier. The foreign minister said Brazil had no intention of reneging on its commitment to the Paris climate agreement even though the government felt it contained protectionist measures with respect to the country's agricultural sector. In addition to Italy, Araujo is to visit Poland and Hungary, all countries with governments that share rightwing political ideologies with the current regime in Brazil. In Rome he met with Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, head of the far-right League that is the dominant partner in a ruling coalition with the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S). Brazil's Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo complained that the world sometimes had a "very superficial vision" of his boss, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro Canada's Foreign Minister on Wednesday affirmed her country's "inviolable support" for Ukraine during visit to Kiev, following presidential elections won by comedian Volodymyr Zelensky. Chrystia Freeland was the first G7 minister to visit Ukraine since the vote, which brought a political novice to the head of a country fighting a Russia-backed insurgency in its east. "I want to underline that Canada fully supports Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Freeland, who is of Ukrainian descent, said in Ukrainian during her meeting with Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman. "We understand that Ukraine is currently defending not only its democracy but also the democracy worldwide," she added. Freelend also met president-elect Zelensky and the outgoing Petro Poroshenko, who charted a pro-Western course over his term in power. Freeland's meeting with Zelensky in a Kiev restaurant lasted an hour and a half, according to a source familiar with the matter. She compared Zelensky to Canada's prime minister Justin Trudeau, according to Zelensky's press office. Zelensky, who will take office in the coming weeks, told Freeland he has "a chance" to end the war in the east and promised to redouble efforts in the fight against corruption. "We have a chance to stop the fire and reclaim the Donbass," he said, according his press office. "We do not want to talk about the fight against corruption, we want to triumph over it," he added. The conflict between the Ukrainian government and breakaway rebels began after Moscow annexed Kiev's Crimea peninsula in 2014. The war has claimed some 13,000 lives. Kiev and its Western backers accuse Russia of funnelling troops and arms across the border to fan the flames of the conflict. Canada and Freeland herself have been among Kiev's strongest supporters. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland (R) shakes hands with shows Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko during her visit to Kiev, where she affirmed her country "fully supports Ukraine's sovereignty" A Canadian man handed the death penalty for drug smuggling in China will appeal his sentence Thursday, in a case that has deepened the diplomatic rift between Beijing and Canada. The appeal comes against the backdrop of Beijing's anger over the December arrest of Meng Wanzhou, a senior executive at Chinese tech giant Huawei, who faces a US extradition hearing in Canada on Wednesday. Robert Lloyd Schellenberg was sentenced to death on drug trafficking charges in January. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau denounced the decision as "arbitrarily" chosen. Schellenberg's appeal will take place Thursday morning at the Dalian Intermediate People's Court in northeastern Liaoning province, a source familiar with the case told AFP. The Dalian court declined to comment. The provincial level Liaoning High People's Court did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. China will "protect the legal rights" of Schellenberg during his lawsuit, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang at a press briefing. "China is a country ruled by law," he said. But Ottawa remains "extremely concerned that China has chosen to apply the death penalty, a cruel and inhumane punishment," Canadian foreign ministry spokeswoman Brittany Fletcher said in an email to AFP. Canadian officials plan to attend Thursday's hearing. "Canada has requested, and will continue to seek, clemency for Mr Schellenberg," she said. Schellenberg was originally sentenced to 15 years in prison and a 150,000 yuan ($22,000) forfeiture in November. But following an appeal, the high court in Liaoning ruled in December that the sentence was too lenient given the severity of his crimes. About a month later, his sentence was changed to capital punishment. China has executed foreigners for drug-related crimes in the past, including a Japanese national in 2014, a Filipina in 2013, and a Briton in 2009. Last week, another Canadian, Fan Wei, was sentenced to death for drug trafficking in a separate case in southern China. - Canadians arrested - Schellenberg's case is seen as potential leverage for Meng, who was arrested on a US extradition request related to Iran sanctions violations -- a link that Beijing has repeatedly denied. Following the Huawei executive's arrest in December, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in what observers saw as retaliation. Days after Canada launched the extradition process against Meng in March, China announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets. It alleged fellow Canadian Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Both men have been denied access to lawyers and allowed only monthly consular visits. Meng is free on bail in Vancouver as the extradition process continues. The diplomatic row appears to have has spilled over into the economic arena: China has banned Canadian canola shipments worth billions of dollars. Beijing has punished other countries with trade sanctions over diplomatic spats in the past. The appeal of a Canadian drug smuggler sentenced to death in China has deepened a diplomatic rift between Beijing and Canada Factfile on Canadian Robert Lloyd Schellenberg who is appealing his death sentenced in China for drug-related offences Thursday Schellenberg's case is seen as leverage for Huawai executive Meng Wanzhou's extradition hearing Colombia hit out at neighbor Venezuela on Wednesday for "repeated provocations" after claiming around 30 military personnel crossed into its territory. In a statement, the foreign ministry said the Venezuelan unit crossed 200 meters into northeastern Colombia. They were "identified by locals as belonging to the Bolivarian Armed Forces, at the service of the (Nicolas) Maduro regime, who remained for around 20 minutes," the statement said. The Venezuelan military personnel left the area when they noticed the arrival of a helicopter carrying Colombian soldiers, "who were sent to attend to calls from the community denouncing acts of intimidation." The statement said Colombia's military was "ready to defend (its) territorial integrity, while always maintaining the necessary prudence in the face of these clear and repeated provocations that aim only to incite a response to make Colombia look like the aggressor." Bogota frequently complains of territorial incursions by the Venezuelan military. The two countries' border is 2,200 kilometer (1,400 mile) long, difficult to access and largely lawless, with armed groups including drug traffickers, left-wing guerrillas and paramilitaries operating along it. Caracas broke off diplomatic relations with Bogota in February after Colombia became one of the more than 50 countries to recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. Relations between the two countries have been poor since 2017, with Colombia bearing the brunt of its neighbor's economic crisis that has seen more than 2.7 million people flee the country, according to the United Nations. Colombia President Ivan Duque has called his counterpart Maduro a "dictator." The Colombian foreign ministry said the military personnel were "identified by locals as belonging to the Bolivarian Armed Forces, at the service fo the (Nicolas) Maduro regime" (C, pictured May 2, 2019 with military troops) Famine is on the rise in the Near East and North Africa with more than 52 million people undernourished, most of them in conflict zones, the UN food agency said Wednesday. "Conflicts and protracted crises have spread and worsened since 2011, threatening the region's efforts" to eliminate hunger, said the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. "Fifty-two million people in the region are suffering from chronic undernourishment" with two-thirds of them in conflict zones, the FAO said in a statement. These included Iraq, Libya, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, whose ongoing four-year war has killed tens of thousands of people, including many civilians, according to humanitarian organisations. The fighting in Yemen has triggered what the United Nations describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with 3.3 million people still displaced and 24.1 million in need of aid. Conflicts in the Near East and North Africa also had "long-lasting impacts on the food and nutrition security" of surrounding countries, said Abdessalam Ould Ahmed, the FAO's Cairo-based regional representative. "The impact of conflict has been disrupting food and livestock production in some countries and consequently affecting the availability of food across the region," he said. Beyond conflicts, the FAO said rising hunger was also made worse in the region by rapid population growth, scarce and fragile natural resources and the growing threat of climate change. In response to the crisis, the UN agency called for the sustainable transformation of agriculture. The FAO urged countries to improve market access for farmers, promote investment and innovation in agriculture and the management of water resources. The fighting in Yemen (protesters pictured September 2018) has triggered what the UN describes as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with 24.1 million people in need of aid Labor leader Bill Shorten has paid an emotional tribute to his late mother as he criticised a newspaper article accusing him of omitting a key fact about her career. During ABC's Q&A program on Monday, Mr Shorten told how his mother wanted to become a lawyer, but instead took a teaching scholarship so she could look after her younger siblings. The Daily Telegraph on Wednesday attacked Mr Shorten in a front-page article headlined "Mother of Invention", saying he "omitted the fact" she went on to an "illustrious career as a barrister". Mr Shorten told reporters the description was far from the truth his mother had got about nine legal briefs in her time and struggled in the face of discrimination. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten speaks to the media about his late mother. Source: AAP "It was actually a bit dispiriting (for her)," he said. "She had wanted to do law when she was 17. She didn't get that chance. She raised kids. At 50, she backed herself ... but she discovered the discrimination against older women. "I chose to give you that last bit of the battle of her time at the bar, because my mum would want me to say to older women in Australia that just because you've got grey hair, just because you didn't go to a special private school, just because you don't go to the right clubs, just because you're not part of some back-slapping boys club, doesn't mean you should give up." Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Mr Shorten would have been very hurt by the News Corp Australia story and the election should not be about MPs' families. Mr Shorten (front left) carries the coffin of his mother, Dr Ann Shorten, with fellow pallbearers including brother Robert (R) at Xavier College Chapel in Melbourne in 2014. Source: AAP Pictured here is Mr Shorten's mum, Dr Ann Shorten. Source: AAP "Bill lost his mother five years ago and I can understand that that would have upset him a great deal," he said. "I would only extend my best wishes to him." Mr Morrison said the election should be focused on the choice between himself and Mr Shorten as prime minister. "This election is not about our families," Mr Morrison said. Mr Shorten said his single mother worked as a teacher for three decades before studying law when he and his twin brother were at university. "I can't change what happened to my mum. But I can change things for other people. And that's why I'm in politics, he said. Story continues Labor's campaign spokesman Jim Chalmers said the newspaper story was a "disappointing new low". Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. Google bucked the soaring smartphone price trend Tuesday, unveiling a high-performance Pixel handset aimed at the middle of the market as part of a wide-ranging pitch to developers of its new hardware, software and privacy efforts. The Pixel 3a phone, which includes many of the artificial intelligence features of its flagship devices, is priced from $399, executives said as Google opened its annual I/O developers conference near its headquarters in the Silicon Valley city of Mountain View. "There has been a troubling trend of high-end phones getting more expensive," Google head of hardware Rick Osterloh said. "So, we challenged ourselves to deliver a high-end experience in a new Pixel 3a starting at $399." The new Pixel was available at Google's online shop. Osterloh contended that the price is about half that of latest generation premium smartphones but is built with camera, digital assistant and other features found in top-end handsets. "They just redefined what a mid-priced phone can do," Forrester Research principal analyst Frank Gillett said at the event. "But they didn't tell us what compromises they made on the hardware." Google's expertise is software, so getting features like artificial intelligence to work on less costly smartphones plays to the internet giant's strength, according to Gillett. Enabling artificial intelligence to handle sophisticated features on smartphone means less user data needs to be shared with online data centers to handle tasks, Google chief executive Sundar Pichai said while discussing steps being taken to strengthen privacy and security of users. "We always want to do more for users, but do it with less data over time," Pichai said. "We strongly believe that privacy and security are for everyone." - Budget appeal - The Pixel 3a makes its debut in a tightening smartphone market, particularly when it comes to premium models, with Google having failed to garner significant market share. Over the past quarter, South Korea's Samsung led all manufacturers with a 23 percent share in a global market that fell 6.6 percent, according to research firm IDC. China's Huawei, US-based Apple and three other Chinese firms rounded out the top five, according to IDC. Google stepped up its hardware ambitions last year with the acquisition of the smartphone division of Taiwan-based HTC. The new Pixel 3a device is being introduced as Apple and Samsung have boosted prices of their newest handsets to over $1,000, and with Google's flagship Pixel 3 selling from around $800. Pixel 3a has features "extremely attractive to users on a budget," and comes as a threat to the leading Android-powered smartphone maker Samsung, according to Creative Strategies analyst Carolina Milanesi. Google also introduced a Nest Hub Max device that combines a 10-inch (25-centimeter) display with a camera, microphone, sound system and a digital assistant. Smarts built into Max include facial recognition that allows the device to personalize experiences and even alert owners when someone it doesn't recognize is in a home, according to executives. Max will be priced at $229 when it launches later this year in Australia, Britain and the US. Analyst Gillett saw the Max price as "jaw-dropping" given it combines a smart camera, video screen and high-quality stereo. - Privacy minded - Google executives dived deep into ways it is improving its software, particularly with privacy and machine learning in mind. Along with weaving podcasts and 3-D augmented reality images into search results, Google is enabling more of the computing to be done on handsets where users have control. "Instead of sending data to the cloud, we shipped machine learning models directly to your device," Pichai said. "We always want to do more for users, but do it with less data over time." While the "devil is in the details" regarding how much of what Google mobile software learns about users will be "grist" for its money-making online ads, weaving improved privacy into its offerings could improve the company's position with regulators, according to Gillett. CEO Sundar Pichai opened the Google I/O 2019 conference where the tech giant unveiled new hardware including a Pixel 3a smartphone that is less expensive than flagship devices The new Google Pixel 3a uses the tech giant's artificial intelligence for improved camera performance US President Donald Trump on Wednesday tightened the screws further on Iran with sanctions on its mining industry after a frustrated Tehran said it would suspend some promises it made under a nuclear deal rejected by Washington. On the anniversary of Trump's withdrawal from the accord he denounced as "horrible," tensions were soaring as the United States deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers to the region and accused Iran of "imminent" attacks. In an announcement previewed for days, Iran said it would immediately stop implementing some restrictions under the 2015 deal -- a move aimed largely at pressing Washington's European allies to step up to preserve the agreement. Tehran said it would abandon even more if the remaining parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- failed to start delivering on their commitments to sanctions relief within 60 days. President Hassan Rouhani said the ultimatum was intended to rescue the nuclear deal from Trump, whose sanctions have caused severe pain in Iran -- which had anticipated an economic boon from the agreement negotiated under then-president Barack Obama. "We felt the (deal) needed surgery and that the year-long sedatives have not delivered any result. This surgery is meant to save the (deal), not destroy it," Rouhani said at a cabinet meeting broadcast live on state television. Rouhani denounced European countries for seeing the United States as the world's "sheriff" and said their view kept them from making "firm decisions for their own national interests." - Cutting Iranian exports - Trump quickly fired back as he moved to inflict greater economic pain on Iran, imposing sanctions that would punish anyone who buys or trades the country's iron, steel, aluminum and copper. The White House had already acted forcefully to prevent all countries from buying Iran's oil -- its crucial money-maker -- and said that the steel and mining sector was the country's second-largest source of foreign revenue, accounting for 10 percent of exports. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement. But in a shift in tone, Trump -- who talked tough on North Korea before two landmark summits with leader Kim Jong Un -- said he was willing to negotiate face-to-face. "I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves," he said. At a rally in Florida late Wednesday Trump said he hopes that "a fair deal" can be worked out at some point. "We aren't looking to hurt anybody," he told supporters. "We just don't want them to have nuclear weapons. That's all we want." Observers believe it is highly unlikely that Iran's leaders -- who have made hostility to the United States a bedrock principle since the 1979 Islamic Revolution toppled the pro-Western shah -- would want to meet Trump, who has repeatedly threatened the country. But Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif regularly saw his counterpart in the Obama administration, then secretary of state John Kerry, and recently dangled the prospect of a prisoner swap with the United States. - Moving limits on uranium, heavy water - Iran's Supreme National Security Council said it no longer considered itself bound by the agreed restrictions on stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water. It said that after 60 days, it would also stop abiding by limits on the level to which Iran can enrich uranium and modifications to its Arak heavy water reactor that were designed to prevent the production of plutonium. Uranium enriched to much higher levels than Iran's current stocks can be used as the fissile core of a nuclear weapon, while heavy water is a source of plutonium, which can be used as an alternative way to produce a warhead. Robert Kelley, a former UN nuclear inspector now with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, said on a practical level, the commitments Iran was dropping had no bearing on its ability to develop an atomic bomb. He added that Iran was simply seeking to "save face" after "striking a deal which was not respected by the other side." - Concern in Europe - The three European parties to the deal tried to save the accord with a trade mechanism meant to bypass reimposed US sanctions, but their attempt was dismissed by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a "bitter joke." The European powers voiced alarm at Iran's statement and expressed hope that the nuclear deal could be preserved. "It is important to avoid any action that would prevent the enactment of the obligations by parties currently upholding the agreement or that might fuel an escalation," a French foreign ministry spokesperson said. And German Chancellor Angela Merkel's spokesman Steffen Seibert said: "We as Europeans, as Germans, will play our part and we expect full implementation from Iran as well." Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says a landmark 2015 nuclear deal needs 'surgery' to rescue it from his US counterpart Donald Trump's determination to scrap it Map and factfile on the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, one year after the US withdrawal from the agreement. US President Donald Trump has said his country is not 'looking to hurt anybody' and that he hopes 'a fair deal' can be worked out with Iran President Hassan Rouhani visits the control room of Iran's Russian-built Bushehr nuclear power plant, one of the facilities that the nuclear deal allowed it to continue operating, under some restrictions Washington has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the Middle East as it steps its rhetoric against Tehran Pregnancy tests dont always give the desired result, but one brand that has been causing some consumers a headache has been doing so by yielding no result at all, or even, a completely incorrect one. One woman, who purchased the Coles brand of pregnancy test because it was the cheapest, complained the product had remained completely blank after she had performed the test. Dont bother with these cheapies. I got them I was 99% sure I wasnt pregnant but had a few symptoms so wanted to be even more certain, and I went for the cheapest, figuring theyd do a good enough job even if not as sensitive as better brands, the woman said in a Facebook group, also sharing a photo of the unresponsive test. I know I can demand my money back (though they better not ask for the pee soaked sticks back) but its still a waste of time. The woman's post drew mixed reviews from others who had used the product. Source: Facebook Other people in the Perth-based group responded to the post with mixed experiences of also using the Coles brand, while others pointed out the test couldve simple been faulty, which can happen with all pregnancy tests no matter the brand. I got a reading of 134 but barely positive on this brand. Useless, one woman said. Another added: I used these. First one was faulty so I took it back (in packaging and told them my story). They threw it in bin and I got another one and found out I was pregnant. Another woman who had also recently purchased the Coles test said the ink went everywhere when she tried to use it. These are sooo sh**, read another comment. Coles has no other so I used these. Some didnt show up anything. Some showed up positive. Wasnt keen to take mine back. Coz really who wanna take a piss covered stick to get a refund? Another woman shared a photo to the thread of an apparently used pregnancy test from the Coles brand which showed a confusing result of no lines, but completely coloured in shapes. My test a week ago!! the user wrote with two laughing emojis. I got my period four days late. Story continues One woman uploaded a photo of a confusing result she received from the test. Source: Facebook Someone else said: I had used one of these about three weeks ago and it came up with a positive. Im not pregnant. My husband almost died. A 2017 review of home pregnancy test kits by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which is part of the Australian Government Department of Health, found four in ten pregnancy tests on the Australian market failed the TGAs reliability tests. The watchdog found 22 of the 27 test kits sampled passed testing and were shown to work reliably and a total of 16 pregnancy tests were withdrawn from sale as a result. Pregnancy self-test kits rely on detecting the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone for the reliability of results. To be marketed in Australia, a urine pregnancy test kit must be included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods which is administered by the TGA. A Coles spokesperson told Yahoo News Australia the supermarket was following up the customers concerns with the supplier. Coles takes the quality of all our products seriously and we understand the sensitivities involved in taking a pregnancy test, the spokesperson said. As always we offer a full refund or replacement to customers who are not 100% happy with any Coles brand product with proof of purchase. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. More than 30 years after Ranny Yun was found dead, her throat slashed in her Melbourne home, a man has been found guilty of her murder. Meth Mean was found guilty by a Supreme Court jury of killing the 27-year-old woman, found dead at her Springvale house in October 1987. "The accused murdered the deceased in the course of a sexual assault," crown prosecutor Nanette Rogers SC told the jury in March. Meth Mean was found guilty on Wednesday for the brutal 1987 murder of Ranny Yun. Picture: AAP Image/Daniel Pockett Ms Yun had fled the genocidal regime in Cambodia and was home alone on the afternoon she was killed. A young relative found her dead in her sewing room, naked from the waist down, with severe head injuries and wounds to her throat and chin. Semen found on the dead woman's body matched that of Mean. Ranny Yun was killed in her home in 1987. Source: 7News He was extradited from Perth in 2017 after covertly obtained DNA evidence linked him to the death of Ms Yun. The age of Mean was a key issue in the case with the defence arguing he was only 14 at the time of the crime. However the prosecution said he was in fact older, aged between 18 and 20, and that was supported by witnesses as there was no birth certificate. His lawyer argued Mean was not the killer and that semen was left at the scene following Ms Yun's death. Mean is due to be sentenced at a later date and his matter will be mentioned next on May 29. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. Australians Sara Zelenak and Kirsty Boden were killed in the London Bridge terror attack after both made the fatal decision to check on the scene rather than flee. The 21-year-old nanny and 28-year-old nurse were murdered along with six others by Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba on the night of June 3, 2017. An inquest into the attacks in London has heard the three attackers used a van to run down dozens of people on the bridge before stabbing dozens more with 30cm ceramic kitchen knives in the nearby Borough Market. Australians Sara Zelenak and Kirsty Boden both died in the 2017 terror attack on London Bridge. Source: AAP The van struck first struck Frenchman Xavier Thomas, 45, who died after being thrown into the river, with 30-year-old Canadian Chrissy Archibold struck and killed moments after. Ms Zelenak's mother Julie Wallace told the Old Bailey on Tuesday that night "every sliding door slid for Sara to be in harm's way", echoing the sentiments of many victims' families. "Everyone that knew Sarz or lived in our town in the Redlands, Queensland, Australia has been affected. No one has ever died from a terrorist attack in the Redlands," Ms Wallace said. "That only happens on TV in another country. "It couldn't be real, I thought. Well, unfortunately it does happen and it's a world problem." Mark and Julie Wallace, parents of victim Sara Zelenak, arrive for the opening day of the inquest into the London Bridge terror attack on Tuesday. Source: Getty Images Detective Superintendent Rebecca Riggs said Ms Zelenak was walking down steps nearby with a friend when they heard the van crash into a railing and turned back to see what happened. The Queenslander was viciously stabbed in the neck and body by Butt and the others. Just around the corner Ms Boden, who was having dinner at the Boro Bistro with two friends, also heard the crash. "Her immediate response was to leave the table where she was sat with her friends and to go to assist as she was a nurse," England and Wales Chief Coroner Mark Lucraft told the inquest's opening day. In the meantime the attackers knifed French chef Sebastian Belanger, 36, before stabbing 26-year-old French waiter Alexandre Pigeard, who Ms Boden, from South Australia, started to treat. Story continues A woman places flowers on a floral tribute in the London Bridge area following the terror attack. Source: AAP "Whilst Kirsty was trying to assist she was also attacked," Detective Inspector Riggs told the inquest. After being stabbed in the chest by Butt, Ms Boden started running towards The Mudlark pub, but she collapsed and died from her injuries. Lives torn apart "The lives of many people were torn apart in what took place in less than 10 minutes of high and terrible drama," Judge Lucraft said. Ms Boden's English partner James Holler said her brave actions that summer night would not have seemed unusual for everyone who knew her. "To Kirsty it wouldn't have seemed brave, she loved people and lived her life helping others. To Kirsty her actions that night would have just been an extension of how she lived her life," he said. "We are so unspeakably proud of her and not a day goes by that we are not in awe of her bravery that night." Police officers run at the scene of the terror attack on London Bridge. Source: Getty Images The attackers went on to kill 32-year-old British web educator James McMullan and Spanish money laundering analyst Ignacio Echeverria, 39, who died trying to defend a woman by fighting off the trio with his skateboard. All eight fatal attacks occurred in a three-minute period, while the attackers were shot dead by police 10 minutes after their van first mounted the curb on the bridge. Members of the public wrapped in emergency blankets leave the scene of the terror attack. Source: Getty Images Tragically Ms Zelenak had already escaped terror twice: she'd been at Westminster the day before a terror attack two months earlier and also had a ticket to the Ariana Grande concert that was bombed in Manchester but didn't go. The inquest is expected to run for about eight weeks. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. The ride-hailing era ushered in by Uber and Lyft once promised to complement public transit, reduce car ownership and alleviate congestion. But a new study on San Francisco has found the opposite may in fact be true: far from reducing traffic, the companies increased delays by 40 percent as commuters ditched buses or walking for mobile-app summoned rides. Published Wednesday in Science Advances, the study went back to 2010, before the advent of so-called transportation network companies (TNCs), and compared journey times and road conditions with 2016, by which time they had become a common sighting. San Francisco, where Lyft and Uber are headquartered, grew from 805,000 inhabitants to 876,000 during that period, as 150,000 jobs were added and the road network updated. The authors, from the University of Kentucky and the San Francisco County Transportation Authority (SFCTA), accounted for these changes via a computer model that asked: what would things look like if ride-hailing companies had not come on the scene? Greg Erhardt, an assistant professor of engineering at the university, told AFP his team had found "some substitution" from private cars to TNCs as well as a slight increase in carpooling. "But the net effect is that two-thirds of TNCs are new cars added to the roadway, that would otherwise not be present," he said. They also found that weekday vehicle hours of delay -- defined as the difference in travel time in congested versus free-flow conditions ?- increased by 62 percent between 2010 and 2016. By contrast, in the simulated model without ride-hailing companies, delays went up by only 22 percent -- meaning that the TNCs were responsible for 40 percent of the increase. - Deadheading and disruption - The findings were challenged by Lyft, which said the study had failed to account for increased freight and commercial deliveries -- an area in which Amazon and others have aggressively expanded in recent years, as well as tourism growth. "Lyft is actively working with cities on solutions backed by years of economic and engineering research, such as comprehensive congestion pricing and proven infrastructure investment," the company said in a statement noting its investments in shared rides and bikes. Uber called for more widespread congestion charging, arguing that "while studies disagree on causes for congestion, almost everyone agrees on the solution." The study came as thousands of rideshare drivers in major US cities staged a series strikes against pay and working conditions. It also came ahead of Uber's keenly anticipated Wall Street debut. Lyft went public in March. Proponents of ridesharing often use the argument that the majority of journeys take place at non-peak times, such as when people have gone for a night out and are returning home from bars. But the study found peaks occurring at 7.00 am and 8.00 am and then again around 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm. Among the cars' most disruptive activities on traffic flow were curbside pickups and drop-offs, especially on major arterial roads, it found. Another notable effect was so-called "deadheading," which Erhardt explained as driving around in search of the next customer. "It doesn't serve a purpose in terms of transporting a person. So that's purely an addition to traffic." - Data scraping - The study relied on background traffic speed from GPS data obtained from a commercial vendor, but when the researchers approached the companies to share their own trip data, they were denied access. They were forced then to rely on a method of data scraping developed by Northeastern University that uses the companies' public apps to learn about vehicle movements. Elliot Martin, a research engineer at the University of California Berkeley's Transportation Sustainability Research Center, who was not connected to the study, said its methodology was rigorous. "I think that they did a good job of trying to draw comparisons, to look at what would have happened in a world where TNCs didn't exist versus where they did exist," he said, adding the methodology was the "best available" given the amount of information. Despite the findings, ride-hailing isn't all bad, said co-author Joe Castiglione of the SFCTA. "They are providing services like helping people move around in the evening when transit isn't great, or assisting the visually impaired," he told AFP. The trick, he said, was to determine "how (to) manage the positive benefits without the negative externalities" through new policies like congestion pricing or curbside regulation. Stephen Goldsmith, director of Data-Smart city solutions at Harvard, and the former mayor of Indianapolis, agreed. "There's no love lost today between most cities and Uber, but there's a lot of customer loyalty, which makes it difficult for cities to cut back too much." A new study on tech hub San Francisco published Wednesday in Science Advances has found ridesharing companies were the biggest contributors to congestion growth as commuters ditched bus rides or walking Morning commute traffic moves westbound on the western span of the San Francisco Bay Bridge September 8, 2009 in San Francisco, California The study comes as rideshare drivers in major US cities were set to stage a series of strikes ahead of Uber's keenly anticipated Wall Street debut A group of public schools have sparked outrage after announcing cold sandwiches would be served to children whose parents owed money for unpaid lunches. Parents expressed their horror online, slamming the government-run schools, in Rhode Island, for punishing children for something beyond their control. The announcement was made to Warwick Public Schools Facebook on May 6, with the post declaring the harsh policy would come into effect from May 13. Parents usually select their childs meals from a menu and pay for them online - topping up their account balance according to what their child ate. But the schools said too many parents failed to pay off arrears, so in a move to incentivise debt payment, children would be served a sun butter and jelly sandwich. A group of government-run schools have come under fire after announcing children would be served cold lunch if their parents had outstanding bills. Getty Images/file Children would continue to be served the sandwich until the balance owed is paid in full or a payment plan is set up the post stated. The announcement received fiery backlash from hundreds of angry parents, some comparing the treatment to meal options available to criminals in prison. Why do inmates eat better than school children, and at no cost? Infuriating, a social media user wrote in a comment beneath the post. Many parents argued the accounting systems operated by the schools was not always correct - some claiming to have paid off debt but to still be receiving bills. Several agreed children should never be punished by a system created and dictated by adults, particularly one that was flawed. Children would continue to be served the sandwich until the balance owed is paid in full or a payment plan is set up the school said. Source: Getty Images/file The fact that some kids will have to suffer due to something that could be beyond their control is awful, someone wrote. I dont even get how you explain this to a kindergartener or first grader.. No sorry sweetie you have to eat the most disgusting thing the school offers, another said. School Committee chairwoman Karen Bachus argued the policy needed to be enforced due to the growing financial strain largely a result of unpaid lunches. This policy actually comes out of a serious debt that were incurring by people who are not paying for their lunches, and its getting worse, Ms Bachus told The Providence Journal. Story continues By the financial year ending June 30, the schools would be grappling to offset more than $40,000 due to parents not paying for their childrens lunch, Ms Bachus said. Parents struggling financially could apply annually to receive cheaper student meals, which would mean instead of paying $2.65 for breakfast, they would pay 45 cents. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. Spain's foreign minister on Wednesday lashed out at Washington's decision to lift a ban on lawsuits in US courts over property confiscated by Cuba, calling the move an "abuse of power" that would lead to a "legal battle". Washington announced last month it would begin enforcing a controversial provision of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act allowing Cuban-Americans to sue in US courts over property confiscated by Cuba as it seeks to increase pressure on Havana. Before Trump, every US president had waived enforcement of the Title III provision of Helms-Burton, in part to avoid conflicts with Washington's allies. The European Union is the biggest foreign investor in the communist island -- with Spain leading the way -- and the decision is expected to harm overseas investments. "This is further proof of a lack of cooperation on the part of the US administration and the adoption of extra-territorial measures which, according to us, are an abuse of power which we oppose," Foreign Minister Josep Borrell said during an interview with Spanish public television TVE. "This is going to open a legal battle, we will go to the WTO (World Trade Organization)," he added. Borrell also accused President Donald Trump's administration of acting like "a cowboy" for its implicit threat of military intervention in Venezuela. Washington has repeatedly warned that "all options" were on the table regarding its efforts to remove Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power. Spain has backed the formation of a contact group composed of EU and some Latin American governments to seek Maduro's agreement on holding new elections in the former Spanish colony. "The contact group which we are part of is not on the same wavelength as the US administration, which is like a cowboy who says 'look at me, I will draw my gun'," Borrell said. "We don't want someone who draws their weapon. On the contrary, we call for a peaceful, negotiated and democratic solution," he added. Spain and the United States are among the more than 50 nations which have formally recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's interim president. They have declared Maduro's leadership "illegitimate" since he secured a second six-year term in elections last May widely criticised as tainted. Spain's Foreign Minister Josep Borrell has accused the White House of acting like a "cowboy" over Venezuela One of the two suspected shooters who allegedly opened fire at a Colorado school killing a teen and injuring eight others has been identified by authorities. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office confirmed late on Tuesday (local time) that Devon Erickson, 18, was taken into custody after the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver. The other suspect is a juvenile whose name has not been released. Police have identified Devon Erickson as one of the suspected gunmen in the Denver school shooting. Source: Facebook/ Devon Erickson Sheriff Tony Spurlock says the gunmen were both students at the school and that he had no information about whether anyone was targeted. At least a handgun was recovered, but Spurlock didn't release additional information about other weapons. The public charter school has more than 1850 students in kindergarten through to 12th grade. Officers and teachers evacuating students at the school. Source: Getty Officers investigate the scene following the shooting. Source: Getty An 18-year-old male student was confirmed dead, while eight others were being treated in hospital following the shooting. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the deceased student, according to Douglas County Sheriffs Office. Two students are listed in serious condition, two are listed as stable with injuries that are not life-threatening, one is in good condition and three have been released. Douglas County School District officials made the announcement in an email Tuesday night and said crisis counsellors would be available to all STEM School Highlands Ranch students, staff and families at a nearby church Wednesday. The email called on the community to support one another in the coming days, weeks and months, adding, "We are a united family... Together, we will get through this difficult time." With Associated Press Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, download the Yahoo News app from iTunes or Google Play and stay up to date with the latest news with Yahoos daily newsletter. Sign up here. South Africa goes to the polls Wednesday with the leaders of the three main parties vying for votes in a race that could test the ruling ANC's long-held dominance. Here is a look at the three: - The shrewd president - Cyril Ramaphosa, the leader of the ruling ANC party, took the country's reins last year after a dramatic and varied career intertwined with the birth of modern South Africa. He was a pioneering young trade union leader, an anti-apartheid activist, and a Nelson Mandela protege who led talks to end white-minority rule and helped write the new constitution. When Mandela walked out of jail in 1990, Ramaphosa was standing beside him. But after missing out on becoming Mandela's successor as president, Ramaphosa instead became a hugely wealthy businessman through stakes in McDonalds, Coca-Cola, mining and telecommunications, and developing a taste for breeding rare cattle. In 2012, his image was badly tarnished when police killed 34 striking workers at the Marikana platinum mine, operated by London-listed Lonmin, where he was then a non-executive director. Ramaphosa had called for a crackdown on the strikers, whom he accused of "dastardly criminal" behaviour. He returned to politics to become Jacob Zuma's vice president in 2014, often drawing criticism for failing to speak out against corruption and government mismanagement. Renowned for his patience and strategic thinking, Ramaphosa narrowly beat off pro-Zuma rivals to take over the leadership of the ANC in 2017 and then claim the presidency when Zuma was forced out last year. Ramaphosa's support base crosses South Africa's racial and class divides, but he still faces strong opposition from factions within the ANC. "This is a decisive moment in our country, in the history of South Africa, this is a moment when... we choose hope over despair," he told supporters at the ANC's final campaign rally. Born in Johannesburg's Soweto township, Ramaphosa took up activism while studying law in the 1970s, and spent 11 months in solitary confinement in 1974. - The young opposition leader - Mmusi Maimane, 38, is the first black leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's main opposition party. Raised in Soweto -- the heartland of the anti-apartheid struggle -- Maimane only joined the DA in 2009 and was fast-tracked through its ranks to take control in 2015. His rapid promotion led to accusations that he was being used by the party's senior white activists to cover up a lack of reform within the party. A gifted orator and smooth campaigner, he has kept the DA in the spotlight, broadened its appeal and held together its warring factions. But he has struggled to land punches on Ramaphosa or to convince many black middle-class voters that the DA is not still a "white" party. A devout Christian, he has a masters degree in Theology and regularly preaches at church, where he met his white wife Natalie. Before getting into politics, Maimane ran his own management consultancy and lectured at a business school in Johannesburg. His reserved leadership style could come under question if the DA fails to make significant gains on the 22 percent of the vote it got in the 2014 election. - The radical firebrand - Julius Malema, 38, is a former ANC youth leader who launched the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in 2013 and, against all the odds, has turned it into a political force. He was kicked out of the ruling party after coming into conflict with the leadership but has thrived as a rebel, delivering fiery speeches spiced with jokes and digs at Ramaphosa, the ANC and South Africa's white minority. Presenting himself as the voice of the young and unemployed, he demands the seizure of land from whites without compensation, and the nationalisation of mines and banks. His threat to the ANC was underlined last year when Ramaphosa adopted a tougher stance on land reform to appease a section of the electorate, spooking foreign investors. Wearing a red beret and styling himself as "commander in chief", Malema hopes to ride a growing wave of discontent among the poorest of South Africans 25 years after the end of apartheid. During Jacob Zuma's reign as president, he led his lawmakers in a campaign to disrupt parliament by chanting and heckling, before being thrown out by security officers. His party holds 25 seats in the 400-member parliament. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has a broad appeal outside the African National Congress even if he has enemies inside it The leader of the Democratic Alliance leader Mmusi Maimane is a gifted orator and smooth campaigner Julius Malema founded the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) after being kicked out of the ANC Profits at Japanese car giant Toyota hit the skids despite record sales, the company admitted Wednesday, although it said it expected to accelerate out of trouble in the year ahead. The maker of the Camry sedan and Prius hybrid said net profit was down 24.5 percent from its best-ever result the year before, at 1.88 trillion yen ($17 billion) in the year to March 31. Toyota's bottom line was pushed down by some 294 billion yen in book losses on its investment portfolio. Senior managing officer Masayoshi Shirayanagi blamed "the deterioration of the stock market in the current period" for the investment losses. He added the figures also suffered in comparison with previous year's 250-billion-yen boost from US tax reform. However, the firm forecast net profit to rise 19.5 percent in the coming year to 2.25 trillion yen. And sales rose 2.9 percent to a record 30.23 trillion yen, leaving an operating profit of 2.47 trillion yen, which was up 2.8 percent year-on-year. Akio Toyoda, the firm's president, noted it was the first time a Japanese company had ever logged annual sales in excess of 30 trillion yen. The firm expects operating profit for the current year to March 2020 will increase 3.3 percent to 2.55 trillion yen. Sales are forecast to sag 0.7 percent to 30 trillion yen. "Toyota has cruised steadily, compared with its rivals," said analyst Satoru Takada at TIW, a Tokyo-based research and consulting firm. "The firm largely showed a reasonable performance around the world at a time when the global market is slowing down," he said. - Brexit 'relocation talks' - Takada was less bullish on the outlook of the auto industry. Japanese carmakers have enjoyed a heyday in recent years with the North American market steadily recovering from the financial crisis of the late 2000s and China growing into a mammoth market, he noted. "But the outlook for the two biggest markets is now murky, while material costs are rising," said the analyst. "Also, they can't expect the one-time impact of US tax cuts, which temporarily boosted their profit before. Tough factors outnumbered positive ones," he told AFP. Rival firm Honda also announced on Wednesday that net profit plunged 42.4 percent to 610 billion yen, citing losses related to reorganisation of the global automobile production in Europe. Sales rose 3.4 percent to 15.9 trillion yen. The company forecasts net profit for the year ending March 2020 will grow 9.0 percent to 665 billion yen. The business environment for auto companies has also been clouded by the US-China trade war and continued uncertainty from Brexit. President Toyoda noted: "If you look at the world, the protectionist way of thinking is spreading. Just as natural resource-poor Japan cannot live alone, we, companies, cannot live alone." Toyota executives have said previously there would be no way to avoid a negative impact in the event of a no-deal Brexit. The firm said its assembly plant in Burnaston in central England, which produces 600 vehicles per day, would be affected. The plant operates under Toyota's famous "just-in-time" system, holding limited stock on site and relying on flexible imports of millions of component car parts from the EU. "If Britain finally leaves the EU, automakers are likely to accelerate relocation talks. It is natural for them to move to a profitable place," Takada said. Toyota shares were down some two percent late in the morning but trimmed the losses by more than half at the close after the results and guidance were announced. This was mainly due to the announcement it would buy back shares for up to 300 billion yen, boosting the price. Toyoda said the carmaker's main challenge was to guard against complacency in a fast-moving sector. "The most dangerous attitude is believing 'Toyota is going to be okay'," he said, since the company is faced with cut-throat competition in a rapidly changing world. Akio Toyoda, president of Japan's auto giant Toyota Motor, walks past a logo of Toyota at the end of a press conference to announce the company's 2019 financial results Toyota has warned that a no-deal Brexit would affect its plans President Donald Trump's son Donald Jr was subpoenaed Wednesday to testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee as part of its probe into Russian election meddling, US media reported. It was the first known legal summons issued by Congress to a member of the president's family to force testimony in the ongoing investigation, and comes after Special Counsel Robert Mueller declined to accuse Trump's 2016 campaign of criminal conspiracy to collude with the Russians. The surprise subpoena was issued by a Republican-led committee, opening a new source of strain between the Congress and a White House battling the legislature's pressure on multiple points. It came one day after Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell declared "case closed" for the Russia investigation. Donald Jr., 41, has testified voluntarily in private once to the committee, and was peppered with questions about a June 9, 2016 meeting in Trump Tower in New York that he and other senior Trump campaign officials had with a Russian lawyer offering dirt on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. He was also quizzed about direct communications he had with Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, which leaked damaging documents and communications stolen by Russians from Clinton's campaign. Committee sources would not confirm the subpoena or what they want to discuss with the president's eldest son, who currently helps run the Trump Organization, the family's real estate empire, and helps his father re-election campaign. Citing a person close to Donald Jr., the Wall Street Journal said he had offered to answer questions in writing from the committee, and planned to fight the subpoena which demands that he testify in person. Donald Trump Jr. warms up the audience at a rally for his father President Donald Trump in El Paso, Texas in February A report by a US government commission has warned of "serious" security risks from Hong Kong's plan to allow extraditions to mainland China, which has sparked protests in the financial hub. The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, which was set up by Congress to advise on the security implications of US trade with China, said the extradition bill could affect the estimated 85,000 US citizens and 1,300 US firms in Hong Kong. "The proposed changes to Hong Kong's extradition laws could create serious risks for US national security and economic interests in the territory," said the report released Tuesday. "The new arrangement would diminish Hong Kong's reputation as a safe place for US and international business operations, and could pose increased risks for US citizens and port calls in the territory," it said. The report said that the bill was part of China's "accelerating" intrusions into the rule of law in Hong Kong -- going against the "one country, two systems" promise made by Beijing before Britain handed over the colony in 1997. Hong Kong maintains a separate legal system and has historically balked at extraditions to the mainland due to China's opaque criminal justice system and its liberal use of the death penalty. But earlier this year Hong Kong's government announced plans to overhaul its extradition rules, allowing the transfer of fugitives with mainland China, Macau and Taiwan on a case-by-case basis. In response to the report, the government of the city -- known officially as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region -- said it abided by the rule of law and had long-term agreements to surrender fugitives with 20 jurisdictions, including the United States. "The current exercise is about amending local laws to enhance the HKSAR's capability in dealing with fugitives of serious criminal offences and making the HKSAR a better partner in the international fight against crime," it said in a statement. An activist holds a placard during a protest in Hong Kong on April 28, 2019 against a controversial move by the government to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland Britain's Prince Harry and wife Meghan on Wednesday announced their new "dream" son's name is Archie, hours after showing him off to the world for the first time. "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor," the couple announced on their Instagram account, ending months of speculation. The informal choice defied the bookmakers' predictions and confirmed the couple's determination not to be bound by tradition. Archie's proud parents emerged in front of the cameras inside Windsor Castle earlier Wednesday to show off their son, ahead of introducing him to great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II. "He's just been a dream," said a smiling Meghan, 37, in her first public comments since giving birth to the seven-pound, three-ounce (3.26-kilogram) baby, who stayed firmly asleep during his public unveiling. "He has the sweetest temperament. He's really calm," added the Duchess of Sussex, as Prince Harry cradled the newborn, wrapped in a white blanket, by her side. Royal watchers had been desperate for a glimpse of the new baby, who is seventh in the line to the British throne, ever since the couple announced his birth to their 6.5 million followers on Instagram with the message "It's a BOY!" "Parenting is amazing," said 34-year-old Harry, the day after brother Prince William -- two years his senior and with three children of his own -- had jokingly welcomed him to the "sleep deprivation society that is parenting". "We're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy." Meghan added: "It's been a special couple of days." - 'Nice moment' - Royal fan Margaret Tyler told AFP that Harry appeared to be "absolutely besotted" by his son. "He looks absolutely adorable, he is like a little doll, isn't he?", she said outside Windsor Castle, west of London. "What proud parents he's got." The couple revealed Queen Elizabeth's husband Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, had got a sneak preview in a chance encounter in the corridors of Windsor Castle. "We just bumped into the Duke as we were walking by, which was so nice," said Meghan. "It'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family." Prince Charles, on a visit to Germany on Tuesday, said he was "obviously delighted" and "impatient" to see his fourth grandchild. The heir to the British throne, speaking in German, said he would see the baby "in the coming days when things are calmer". Crowds have gathering outside Windsor Castle all week to wish them well. It was a rare piece of good news for a nation consumed by the protracted Brexit drama. And it has given people a chance to celebrate royal traditions -- this time with a young American twist. Former US TV star Meghan has created a fresh buzz around the century-old House of Windsor. Some fans have also been intrigued by her heritage. "I want to see how he'll look. As Meghan is mixed race, I'm curious", said Zahra Kibue, 34, who lived in Kenya before moving to England a few years ago. - No title - Meghan has also made waves with her modernising ways and recently raised eyebrows by closing her own car door -- a task usually performed by aides. She also ignored tradition by keeping the birth and recovery process private, unlike sister-in-law Kate, who appeared before the cameras hours after giving birth. The couple have also chosen not to use courtesy titles at present, although he could become a prince when his grandfather, the Prince of Wales, becomes king. The inspiration behind the name is now likely to be the main source of speculation. The name has traditionally been used as a shortened version of the old English and Scottish name Archibald, meaning "truly brave", but has recently become increasingly popular in its own right. It was the 15th most popular boy's name in Britain last year, according to website Baby Centre, using official figures. British bookmakers had a busy few months of betting on the name, with Archie a rank outsider. UK royal names are normally chosen from a relatively restricted pool of those used by past kings and queens. But Meghan and Harry are anything but normal royals, and reports had emerged that the couple were considering an unusual name that was relevant to both Britain and the US. Harry and Meghan presented their son to the media inside Windsor Castle The new baby is seventh in the line to the British throne Prince Harry and Meghan show off baby Archie to greatgrandparents Quuen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, as well as Meghan's mother Doria Ragland Graphic showing the first 8 people in the line of succession to the British throne Harry and Meghan Britain's Prince Harry are anything but normal royals Auburn native Michael Lynch didn't travel on an airplane until he was around 23, but now he's in the air every month. Lynch said his parents were "terrified of big cities," so his family rarely left Auburn while he was growing up. Now an author, professor and director of the Center for Mechanisms of Evolution at Arizona State University, he travels nationally and internationally to give talks and attend other events. He said he's thrilled to have made contacts across the globe and encountered different cultures along the way. Lynch is one of five former Auburn Enlarged City School District students who will be inducted into the Auburn Alumni Hall of Distinction by the Auburn Education Foundation May 17. Lynch, who graduated from East High School in 1969, was surprised by the acknowledgement, as he said he doesn't have any family members who live in Auburn anymore. "It was just quite interesting that somebody from Auburn would have any idea who I was any longer, and it's somewhat of an honor that goes all the way back to your high school roots," he said. Lynch has been keenly interested in biology for as long as he can remember, he said. Though his career was focused on ecology on first, and he has tackled subjects such as cell biology and genetics, he said he now primarily focuses on understanding the process of evolution and how it occurs. The math teachers Lynch had at Auburn schools helped spark his interest in the subject, Lynch said. While he didn't realize the overlap between biology and math at the time, a lot of the work he does now deals with mathematical theory. Lynch received a bachelor's degree in biology from St. Bonaventure University in 1973 and a doctorate in ecology and behavioral biology from the University of Minnesota in 1977. His career before he joined Arizona State included teaching subjects like biology, physics and computer science at institutions such as Indiana University and the University of Oregon. He has written or co-written four books and over 250 papers, and has held positions with various scientific groups over the years, including president of the Genetics Society of America from 2013 to 2016 and president of the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution. When Lynch talked about his advice for current Auburn graduates, he said he believes they should follow their interests. "Not everybody ever develops a passion for something," he said. "But if you've got one, there's a lot of opportunities out there for someone who's got enough ambition to follow their interest." Maureen Coleman, an Auburn High School Class of 1998 graduate and an assistant professor at the University of Chicago, nominated Lynch for the Hall of Distinction honor. Coleman said in an email that she had read his work in the past and decided to look him up in 2012 after he gave a research seminar in Chicago. She said she was shocked to find that Lynch also hailed from Auburn. Coleman said she nominated Lynch because "he is an influential and successful scientist," adding that she hopes showcasing someone from Auburn who is involved in science will encourage current students to pursue such careers. "He is at the forefront of science, combining cell biology and evolution, and his books and articles have been very influential. He truly stands out among the top biologists in the world and I am thrilled that we share a hometown!" Coleman said. Staff writer Kelly Rocheleau can be reached at (315) 282-2243 or kelly.rocheleau@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @KellyRocheleau. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by Cayuga Community College We're hearing a lot about taxpayers being greatly disappointed with their tax refunds this year. That's because most remember very well what President Trump said in February 2018 that his proposed tax plan will give Americans a Christmas present! (Not so!) And, when he said he'd make America wealthy again, he proved it by giving the wealthiest Americans this year the biggest reductions in the share of their income going to taxes. According to Steve Wamhoff, director of federal tax policy at the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy the richest 1 percent are getting more than the bottom 60 percent of Americans. The fact that President Trump was born into a wealthy family and a recipient of millions of dollars from his parents, one might wonder why he continues to say he was dealt a lot of bad hands. (It's when he says he wouldn't mind a little bow. In Japan, they bow. I love it. I have to wonder if all that wealth he grew up with is what caused him to embrace this elitist attitude!) He continues to give himself an A+ score for his accomplishments. Yet there's little proof of any that actually benefits the typical American man, woman or child! Having spent countless hours in the law library, I might agree that this country has laws that need correcting and when President Trump says, we have the worst laws, a closer look at them indicates that they're mostly benefiting him and his family! I wholeheartedly agree with one thing he said about what a president should possess: A president should have tremendous intelligence, smarts, cunning, strength and stamina. Although he's implying he possesses those qualities, I truly don't see that he does. Read this quote and more at: https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/donald_trump_733837 Perhaps the Mueller Report should be revealed in its entirety so those who understand the law can explain it to the majority in easy to understand English so we can better understand why there is reason to doubt this man who calls himself this Nation's Greatest President! Joyce Hackett Smith-Moore Auburn Love 4 Funny 5 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Despite evidence linking texture breast implants to a rare form of cancer, the United States Food and Drug Administration announced on Tuesday that the implants, which are designed to move around inside the breast less than smooth implants, will not be banned for sale in the U.S., according to a New York Times report. The rough or grooved surfaces of textured implants allow the implants to adhere more tightly to scar tissue that forms around the implant, making them less likely to shift position in the implant pocket, according to Texas Medical Center News. Smooth implants, while giving the breasts a more natural appearance, are more likely to change position, possibily necessitating more surgery. But a rare cancer known as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, or BIA-ALCL, can grow in the spaces between the grooves in the implant and the scar tissue that surrounds it. The FDA, however, said in a statement explaining its decision that there was not definitive evidence demonstrating breast implants cause these symptoms, and added that even though the majority of women who develop BIA-ALCL have received textured implants, there are known cases in women with smooth-surface breast implants and many reports do not include the surface texture of the implant at the time of diagnosis. But one medical expert told The Times that the FDA is wrong, and that there are no known cases of the rare cancer occurring in women with only smooth breast implants. Plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Clemens, of M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, told the paper that the only known women with smooth implants who develop the cancer had previously had the textured implants, but had replaced them. The textured implants have already been banned in several other countries, most notably France, which banned "macro-textured and polyurethane implants" in early April. Brazil stopped production of textured implants in 2015. Rather than banning the implants, the FDA said that it would, take steps to improve the information available to women and health care professionals about the risks of breast implants that would include addressing the risk of BIA-ALCL, the greater risk of BIA-ALCL with textured implants, and the risk of developing systemic symptoms that would contribute to the patient-provider discussion about breast implants. Photo By FDA/Wikimedia Commons Public Domain DALLASAneros is inviting media to its booth at the Dallas/Fort Worth Ultimate Women's Expo, slated for May 18-19. Company executives Christina Betancourt and Malay Vannouvong will be at Booth 1019 during the event, presenting the Vivi, the new hands-free Kegel exerciser and G-spot massager, as well as Aneros other innovative products for women. We are pleased to exhibit at this exciting event geared towards women, said Betancourt, project manager for Aneros. With the acknowledgment that sexual health is part of total health, we are seeing more and more women embrace their bodies and their sexuality. We hope presenting Vivi at this major consumer event will raise awareness and continue to progress sexual health into the mainstream. Vivi is a rechargeable, hands-free, Kegel Exerciser, and stimulator, that is perfectly designed for a womans unique needs, providing simultaneous clitoral and G-spot stimulation with the utmost responsiveness. Able to run for five hours on a single charge, Vivi features app-enabled vibration control when using an iPhone or Android. The Dallas/Fort Worth Ultimate Women's Expo will be held at the Irving Convention Center, 500 West Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, Texas. The event is the leading consumer show for women, featuring a wide range of products, services and resources for women. For registration information and tickets, call (866) 618-3434 or visit DFWWomensExpo.com. To reserve complimentary tickets courtesy of participating exhibitors, click here. Media interested in attending the event may register in the lobby. For the latest selection of Kegel Exercisers and G-spot stimulators available, visit Aneros sister website, AnerosFemme.com. Stephen Maturen/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- Presidential candidate in 2020 Elizabeth Warren released a plan to combat opioid addiction on Wednesday that would give $100 billion to address the issue over 10 years, including $2.7 billion each year for the counties and cities hardest hit by the epidemic. Her announcement comes just before the senator from Massachusetts is scheduled to visit West Virginia, the state with the highest level of opioid-related deaths in the country and a state that voted handily for President Donald Trump in 2016. It will be Warren's first visit to the state since she announced her bid for the 2020 presidential ticket. "The ongoing opioid crisis is about health care. But its about more than that. Its about money and power in America who has it, and who doesnt. And its about who faces accountability in America and who doesnt," Warren wrote in a post on Medium. "If the CARE Act becomes law, every single person would get the care they need." Warren first introduced the plan, called the CARE Act, in Congress last year alongside Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md. Together, they have also highlighted the way the crisis "has also severely impacted communities of color, exacerbated by existing health disparities," Warren wrote in a post on Medium. In 2017, there were 692 opioid-related deaths in Baltimore alone, according to the Maryland Department of Health, and most were within the black community, Warren wrote on Medium. Under the CARE Act, Maryland would receive around $109 million per year in grants to fight the epidemic -- more than half of which would be allocated to the hardest-hit communities in Maryland, like Baltimore, which could receive as much as $14.7 million per year. West Virginia, alongside states like Ohio and New Hampshire, which the National Institute on Drug Abuse estimated to have the highest rates of opioid overdose deaths in the country in 2017, could receive up to $323 million in combined annual funding under the plan. Warren is scheduled to visit the hard-hit town of Kermit on Friday to roll out the plan. The small town of about 390 people has been ravaged by addiction and became a symbol of the country's problem in 2016 when a series by the Charleston Gazette-Mail revealed the trail of nearly 9 million opioid pills shipped to a single pharmacy in the town. Under the plan, Mingo County, where Kermit is located, could receive an estimated $533,700 in annual funding. Over 10 years, the plan allocates $40 billion for states, territories, and tribal governments and $17 billion for public health, including research and training for health professionals. Organizations working on the front lines to address the opioid epidemic would receive $11 billion over 10 years. The plan also puts $5 billion toward expanding access to naloxone, a medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose and is used by first responders. "These resources would support the whole continuum of care, from early intervention, to harm reduction, to long-term support services. They would ensure access to mental health services and help provide critical wraparound services like housing support and medical transportation," Warren wrote on Twitter. 70,000 Americans died in 2017 from a drug overdosethe majority due to opioids. Emergency room visits for opioid overdoses are skyrocketing, and too many are still not receiving treatment. This is a public health crisis. And it has also severely impacted communities of color. Elizabeth Warren (@ewarren) May 8, 2019 Warren's plan to address the issue comes on the heels of an announcement from fellow 2020 candidate Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., whose plan to combat addiction and mental health treatment also calls for $100 billion. Other candidates have also proposed plans to address related issues, including former Rep. John Delaney, who last week released a plan to address mental health, and entrepreneur Andrew Yang, whose plan to address the opioid epidemic goes where none of the other candidates have and calls for opioids to be decriminalized. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. SHANGHAI, ChinaZalo USA has returned from a successful showcase at the China Adult-Care Expo, where the award-winning luxury brand introduced its latest innovation, the Hero. We received a lot of positive feedback from international buyers regarding our latest release, the Hero, Zalo USA President and CEO Peter Ovsonka said. Were pleased to offer international retailers a new innovation in pleasure that will transcend borders around the world. Hero takes clit stimulation to thrilling new heights with technology that immediately captured the attention of buyers at the show. The Hero Clitoral PulseWave Massager is part of the Legend Series and is specially designed to indulge and titillate the sensitive area of the clitoris. Hero uses Zalo's proprietary PulseWave technology to achieve a swing width of up to 30mm and a swing frequency of up to 75 times per second, evoking unique sensations designed to imitate a memorable oral sex session. Its elegant, compact shape and powerful, whisper-quiet motors deliver superior ergonomics and functionality for a seamless experience bringing you clitoral pleasure unlike any you've ever experienced before. Held April 26-28, the China Adult-Care Expo is widely regarded as an important international trade fair in the adult retail business, with more than 300 participating exhibitors and thousands of attendees. Zalo USA made a splash at the highly trafficked event with an expansive, elegant booth that luxuriously showcased the full Zalo collection. With stylish window presentations offering a peek into the sophistication of Zalo products, the full line was showcased within the booth atop shiny table displays with the gorgeous backdrop of portraits of queens and other fantasy-inspired scenes. Available in elegant Wine Red, Jewel Green and Twilight Purple tones, Hero is set to ship to retailers and distributors by June 1st. For more information about Hero, and to place a pre-order, email [email protected]. Zalo products may also be ordered via Holiday Products. For more information, visit HolidayProducts.com or email [email protected]. The Arizona Game and Fish Department is looking for public comments on a proposal to adopt a rule that would prohibit using any lethal method during hunting contests for predatory and fur-bearing animals. The deadline for submitting comments is this Sunday, May 12, according to a media release from the department. Public comments will be evaluated before a Notice of Final Rulemaking is taken to the Arizona Game and Fish Commission for consideration. If approved, the final rule would be reviewed by the Governor's Regulatory Review Council, the release said. The commission intends to adopt this rule to address social concerns associated with hunting contests that awards prizes to participants who kill the largest number or variety of predatory or fur-bearing animals. The proposed rule would not apply to lawful, regulated hunting of predatory and fur-bearing animals. If you would like to submit public comments, you may e-mail rulemaking@azgfd.gov. If you would like to send your public comments through United States mail, the department asks you address it: Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn.: Rules Section, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85056. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The forests are a huge part of Flagstaffs identity. The Coconino National Forest covers 1.86 million acres of land surrounding the city, and it borders even more woodlands. However, these forests are not healthy. The U.S. Forest Service is running the Four Forest Restoration Initiative, called 4FRI, to repair the Coconino, Kaibab, Tonto and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. 4FRIs goal is to return the forests to their pre-human-settlement conditions. Ironically, many parts of the forests are unhealthy because they have too many trees. The forests are full of small trees and shrubs, which are fuel for wildfires. Modern wildfires are more violent, destructive and dangerous than fires were a century ago. Old, thick trees should be able to withstand fires with superficial burns, but the undergrowth makes modern wildfires burn too hot for too long, killing even the hardiest of trees. Jesse Young, a researcher at Northern Arizona Universitys School of Forestry, has been analyzing the forests. Ponderosa pines compose a significant amount of 4FRIs acreage, and he used them as an example for the challenges restoration is facing. Ponderosas should grow in grassy fields, making areas that look like parks. A healthy forest should have between 50 and 100 ponderosas per acre, but some parts of the 4FRI area have over 1,000 per acre, Young said. One reason why dense trees create unhealthy forests is competition for sunlight. Ponderosa pines need a lot of sunlight to grow, and the dense canopy of leaves from large trees stops light from reaching the saplings. The saplings can survive, but they remain thin and short as they age. You can have a 100-year-old tree thats only a few inches thick, Young said. The trunks of healthy ponderosas can be several feet thick, which protects them from serious fire damage. The unhealthy trees burn more easily than thick trees, making violent wildfires a problem. 4FRI has several methods of restoring the forests. A common treatment is mechanical thinning, where workers cut down trees in areas that are too dense. Logging is precise and controlled, but it takes a lot of time and money. Youngs research analyzes the role of wildfires in restoration efforts. Northern Arizonas forests became too dense due to attempts at stopping fires in the name of conservation. In the 20th century, we started putting out every forest fire as fast as possible, which led to forest overpopulation. Weve lost sight of what the woods should look like. Young said. We can help solve the problem by letting naturally-ignited, docile wildfires clear the land for us. Docile fires spread slowly and do not burn as hot as violent, explosive fires. Wildfires tend to be docile when humidity is high, the air is cool and winds are low. These fires can cover thousands of acres, but they are unlikely to cause permanent damage to healthy trees. Because these fires are slow, it is possible to extinguish them without risking any lives. It is also possible to keep the flames away from inhabited areas, such as the city of Flagstaff, the farms in the surrounding area or homes in the forests. The key to working with wildfires is knowing which fires need extinguishing and which ones do not need intervention. Young aims to use a computer simulation Landscape Simulator, or LSIM to assess how much damage wildfires will cause in various circumstances. Youngs first task was creating a regeneration model for the 4FRI forests. The regeneration model determines how long it takes vegetation to grow, which is useful for estimating regrowth after fires or mechanical thinning. Although regeneration models are common throughout the US, no one had created a model for the Rocky Mountain region. There were some models that looked at specific plants, but none that gave a full picture, Young said. He gathered data sets from the USFS to measure regeneration, and analyzed 177 real wildfires to assess the success of restoration efforts. Young paid particular attention to restoration in the last decade, because Flagstaff began to follow a new wildfire policy in 2009. Previously, firefighters had to follow unchangeable objectives set at the beginning of each fire. Protection objective fires require immediate extinguishing, and resource objective fires are allowed to burn without intervention. There are also containment and point-zone objectives, where authorities attempt to keep wildfires within certain areas or protect specific locations, such as isolated houses. The 2009 policy allowed authorities to change objectives over the lifespan of each wildfire, adapting as the fire became more explosive, more docile, shrank, or grew. Young determined that the 2009 policy has led to more successful fire treatment and improved forest health. Youngs next goals are to use the simulation to estimate the effects of future wildfires: how dangerous will be, how much it would cost to regulate them, and if they will help or harm the environment. Docile wildfires could be the cheapest way to maintain forest health. We spent 100 years putting all the fires out, and it will take 100 years to fix the problems that caused. Young said. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 2 Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin, perhaps the most dutiful of President Donald Trumps appointees, finally gave the House Ways and Means Committee the answer Monday that everyone knew was coming: No, the Internal Revenue Service will not be turning over Trumps tax returns or audit records. Now we can get on with the battle in court over whether the Treasury has the power to do that. And I have to confess, Im torn over whether it should win. Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal (D-Mass.) sent the IRS a formal request on April 3 for six years worth of tax returns from Trump and eight of his familys businesses, along with audit information and related records the IRS has collected. The rationale which my colleague Michael McGough argues was thin was his committees interest in overseeing and possibly legislating on the IRS practice of routinely auditing the presidents tax returns. Thats a pretty transparent pretext. This is a fishing expedition inspired by suspicions that Trump is hiding something possibly about foreign governments that hes borrowed from or partnered with, or how little hes given to charity, or whether hes even paid taxes at all. I share those suspicions. Trumps excuse for not releasing his returns as a candidate or as president are ridiculous and an affront to the public, which shouldnt trust anyone in higher office who wont reveal his or her personal finances. Its too great a leap of faith to believe that such a person will put the publics interests ahead of personal ones. But should Congress be able to demand the returns? Heres where Im conflicted. Looking at Trumps returns from 2016, 2017 and 2018 seems appropriate, given the stated purpose of examining how the IRS audits presidential returns. But Neals demand included returns for two years 2013 and 2014 when Trump wasnt even a candidate. The idea that Congress can rummage around in a private citizens tax returns for signs of illegality is disturbing. As the Supreme Court has made clear, Congress is not a law enforcement agency. Now, if there were solid evidence of financial ties that bound Trump to a foreign power, then it might be appropriate to look back through his old returns for proof. But solid evidence isnt how I would describe any of the testimony Michael Cohen has offered. On the other hand, Mnuchin argues that the law giving the chairmen of the House and Senate tax-writing committees the power to demand any persons tax returns which seems abundantly clear and unlimited, for understandable historical reasons is actually not so clear or unlimited. According to Mnuchin, the Supreme Court has held that the Constitution requires that Congressional information demands must reasonably serve a legitimate legislative purpose. Oversight is a legitimate legislative purpose, and thats what Neal says is the point in demanding Trumps returns and corresponding audit records. Yes, he would be on more solid ground if he limited the request to the returns Trump filed as president. But Mnuchin refused to turn over any of Trumps returns. So let the legal fight begin. The courts should make it abundantly clear that Congress can issue subpoenas and demand information for the purpose of overseeing federal agencies, not just for writing legislation, because such oversight is Congress job. But I, for one, wouldnt mind if they set a high bar for the IRS turning over a private citizens tax returns to Congress. Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 In order to maintain this blog I have to pay for its upkeep including a hosting company, support services, virus and other malicious hackers. If you appreciate what I write please make a donation. Interstate 29 from southwest Iowa to northwest Missouri could reopen by Memorial Day weekend. The highway sustained major damage from March flooding and has been closed since, with an original target date for reopening in June. Right now, we have contractors in place working, said Scott Suhr, transportation planner for the Iowa Department of Transportation. Were shooting for an opening by Memorial Day weekend, weather permitting. Were also hoping to open up Iowa 2 at the same time. Iowa 2 is the highway that connects Nebraska 2, which runs from Lincoln to Nebraska City, to I-29. The route is the primary link between Lincoln and the Kansas City area. When I-29 reopens, it wont be a fully functioning four-lane highway for several weeks. There are likely going to be head-to-head sections, one lane in each direction, in some places," Suhr said. "It will take some time. But well, at least, get it open." The cost of the repairs has not yet been determined, Suhr said. But it will be in the millions. The damage is greater than what we experienced in 2011, he said. On Tuesday, traffic cameras from the Iowa Department of Transportation revealed work to rebuild lanes of I-29 in some areas. In other areas, floodwaters from the Missouri River still covered on- and off-ramps to the interstate. Further north, crews are working to reopen a closed section of I-29 between the I-680 interchanges at Crescent and Loveland. The earlier-than-anticipated opening is the result of a relatively smooth rebuilding effort by Iowa DOT and its contractors. Its going pretty well, all things considered, Suhr said. Weve got our crews out there, contractors out there really working around the clock, so we can make the Memorial Day weekend opening." The holiday weekend and unofficial start to summer is a natural target for transportation officials. The closing of I-29 has significantly increased traffic on two-lane roads, including U.S. 75 in Nebraska, heightening safety concerns in towns like Auburn. This weekend, NASCAR fans from Nebraska will be seeking alternate routes to attend races at Kansas Speedway. The Missouri Department of Transportation -- which closed I-29 north of St. Joseph to the Iowa border to manage traffic flow, not repair damage -- will reopen the highway simultaneously with the Iowa reopening. That will mean I-29 will be open from Sioux City to Kansas City for the first time in more than two months. Reach the writer at 402-473-7244 or kwolgamott@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSWolgamott. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Third grade students from Beatrice and other area schools visited the Gage County Fairgrounds for the 2019 Day on the Farm event put on by the Gage County Agricultural Society and the Nebraska Extension on Wednesday. The annual event features hands-on learning experiences with agriculture, including a chance to see livestock up close, feed a calf and learn where food really comes from. Students rotate through different sessions, each taught by local producers and others involved with agriculture. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Court of Appeals nominee Reuben Young, pictured here in 2010. (CJ file photo) Gov. Roy Cooper has reconfigured the N.C. Court of Appeals into an 8-7 Democratic majority with his latest two appointments.Cooper, a Democrat, announced Monday, April 15, he appointed Democrats Reuben Young and Christopher Brook to fill two seats on the second highest court in the state. With a 6-1 Democratic edge on the state Supreme Court, Democrats now have voting control of both of North Carolina's statewide appellate courts.Young and Brook replace Judges Bob Hunter, a Republican, who had to step down earlier this month after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 72, and Democrat Mark Davis, who Cooper elevated to the state Supreme Court in March.Davis filled the vacant seat of former Republican Chief Justice Mark Martin, who resigned to become dean of the law school at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Cooper named Democratic Justice Cheri Beasley to succeed Martin as chief justice.Beasley, Davis, Young, and Brook would have to stand for election in November 2020 if they wish to serve full eight-year terms.Cooper said.Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, wasted no time criticizing Cooper's appointments.Berger said in a written statement.Berger said.While serving as chief legal counsel for former Democratic Gov. Mike Easley, Young was a central figure in a public records lawsuit filed by several media organizations, including Carolina Journal. Easley ultimately pleaded guilty to a felony campaign violation.Easley's flight records were under intense scrutiny in 2010 after CJ and others reported campaign donors were flying him on private planes and weren't being reimbursed. (These amounted to unreported campaign contributions.) Easley also got a $137,000 cash discount at closing when he bought a coastal lot in Bogue Sound, and his wife Mary got a six-figure salary at N.C. State University for a job requiring little work. The university chancellor and provost lost their jobs because of it.Young testified at a court-ordered deposition he didn't know the governor used a private email account to conduct state business. Nor did he know about an order for staff to delete emails sent to and from that address. Young said he paid no attention to who was sending and receiving emails when he reviewed their messages as part of open records requests. He had more than 30 memory lapses during the deposition.Cooper, who takes credit for rewriting the state's public record laws, was attorney general at the time. Yet he argued against the media obtaining Easley's personal emails, even if Easley violated mandatory disclosure laws. Wake County Superior Court Judge Howard Manning ruled against Cooper's argument the media had no standing to seek the public records.Young, chief deputy secretary for adult corrections and juvenile justice at the N.C. Department of Public Safety, served for five years as a Superior Court special judge and as Secretary of Public Safety.Brook is legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina. He previously served as a staff attorney for the Southern Coalition for Social Justice and as an attorney in private practice.The Court of Appeals is the state's intermediate appellate court. Its 15 judges serve eight-year terms. Three-member panels hear appeals from lower trial courts, but rule only on whether errors of law or legal procedure occurred. They don't question the facts of a case. Some state administrative agencies file appeals directly to the Court of Appeals. Professor Charney's tendency to provoke negative reactions, and perhaps harm, among some students in the classroom due to his confrontational teaching style-a style that had a tendency to be polarizing among students, particularly in a required Sanford course in which not all students could choose to have Professor Charney as an instructor. The members of the panel were disappointed with Sanford's handling of Professor Charney's reappointment. Professor Charney was, for many years at Duke, a highly-rated, University-decorated, and-for many, many students-beloved and formative professor. He was an asset to Duke. As a woman of color, I write to bring attention to an aspect of Charney's teaching that will be as missed as much as it is needed in today's political climate...The climate at Duke reflects the polarization of the country at large. Conversations are halted before they can even begin. Instead of listening, instead of understanding or trying to understand, people on both sides are combative and dismissive...Charney taught us how to have those conversations, how to navigate race relations, how to empathize. The end of the spring semester marks the 20th anniversary of my professorship at Duke, first as an assistant professor and then as an associate professor of the practice at the Sanford School of Public Policy. During this time, I regularly taught the required ethics class for all undergraduate public policy majors. I won multiple teaching awards, consistently received scores on student teaching evaluations above the school average and, in apoll of undergraduates, was ranked as one of the three most popular professors at Duke University for several years.Therefore, I was blindsided last April when informed that my contract would not be renewed, particularly given that for the past five years (I was on a five-year renewable contract) I was never informed of any problem with any aspect of my performance. Nor was I given an evaluation, despite a change to the Duke bylaws in 2017 mandating such reviews ( see here ).When word of the non-renewal of my contract got out, a letter written in my defense, signed by 100 former students, was published in the, and these same students and others began a letter-writing campaign imploring the Sanford administration to reconsider their decision.Last April, I filed a complaint with the Faculty Hearing Committee (FHC), a university-wide committee tasked with hearing faculty complaints on matters such as tenure and contract renewal. In their written report , they made clear (as Sanford never did) the actual reason for the loss of my job: Dissatisfaction with my "classroom performance." Specifically:That's an astonishing claim that stands in stark contrast to the assessment of the FHC itself:Last April, I was informed that my contract would expire in one year-and was then assigned to teach two classes of the, one in the fall and one this spring, in which I supposedly had a tendency to harm students. If Sanford actually believed their own rhetoric, they would be guilty of knowingly endangering their students.Why did I lose my job on the basis of my purportedly having a tendency to harm students, when there was no evidence of such a tendency, either in my student evaluations or any other feedback I received from students and faculty?The answer, I believe, is twofold: First, the complaint of a handful of students concerning the events of a single class in which we discussed racism at Duke; second, an administration willing to give this complaint absolute credence and greater weight than a record of 20 years as an outstanding teacher, and to distort that record to ensure a negative vote of the faculty.It is extremely troubling that the complaint of a handful of students proved dispositive, inasmuch as most students who were in the very same class had very different reactions to my teaching. Here is one representative example To be sure, I am a provocative professor. I challenge students' deeply held beliefs and expose them to material some would find shocking and offensive. Far from having a tendency to provoke negative reactions, harm, and polarization, it is precisely my method of teaching that has made me such a popular teacher and has led student after student to assert that my class changed her life What happened to me is being repeated at colleges and universities throughout the country. Unfortunately, a growing number of university students equate being made uncomfortable in the classroom with being "harmed." And in this they are encouraged by a growing number of faculty and administrators who view the mission of the university as more about shielding students from such "harm" (for the sake of "inclusivity") and less about meaningful education. In the "surveillance university," students are encouraged to report on the transgressions of faculty, and in what has been called an impulse of "vindictive protectiveness," faculty are judged guilty and harshly punished.Such protectiveness is motivated less by a reasonable concern for students' mental health and more by political ideology. The complaint of a group of conservative students who felt singled out or disrespected or uncomfortable in class would be taken far less seriously . I have been on the receiving end of faculty emails making light of just such complaints.Nor would a complaint by religious students that God and Christianity were mocked by their professor have much purchase. And I have never heard that Sanford's "safe space" is a welcome refuge for the (generally reviled) minority of "open" Trump supporters on campus, nor have I heard of "trigger warnings" for depictions of disrespect to the American flag or harm to the unborn.Such an ideologically driven and enforced conception of harm is fundamentally at odds with the principle of faculty free expression (teachingis as much a matter of free expression as course content or ideological viewpoint). It is, to borrow a phrase from First Amendment jurisprudence, a content-based restriction on speech.To be clear: I am not calling for an expansion of the ethos of vindictive protectiveness to be all-inclusive. I am, rather, calling for its abandonment as it is deeply corrosive to the educational mission of a university.Finally, Duke, like colleges and universities throughout the country, is relying ever more on non-tenure track faculty. Given that tenure was instituted to protect faculty speech in all of its manifestations, this is a cause for concern. The political climate on campuses may be such that even tenured faculty have something to fear, but the threat is particularly great for the growing ranks of non-tenured faculty. It creates a strong incentive to avoid any style of teaching that might conceivably cause discomfort to students who fall within the ambit of an ideologically driven protectiveness.Teaching shaped by fear, especially when dealing with controversial topics (assuming such topics are not avoided altogether) will never be effective teaching.As the FHC noted in this regard,Here's to being deeply wrongheaded. Monday, Oct. 7, Pub Station Ballroom, 8 p.m. Tickets for the all-ages show are $22 in advance and $25 at the door, plus any applicable service fees. Lucero has long been admired in their hometown of Memphis, where they have hosted The Lucero Family Block Party every spring for many years. At the 2018 Block Party they celebrated their 20th anniversary as a band, with the citys Mayor Jim Strickland officially declaring it Lucero Day. Its been two decades since original members Ben Nichols, Brian Venable, Roy Berry, and John C. Stubblefield (keyboardist Rick Steff joined in 2006) started playing shows in Memphis. The bands first show was April 13, 1998 at a warehouse space across the street from what is now the National Civil Rights Museum, the infamous Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was shot. Their first set was six songs played to about six people. On August 3, 2018, record release day for Among the Ghosts, the band will be co-headlining Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado. The bands ninth studio album, Among the Ghosts, is their first for noted Nashville indie label Thirty Tigers. It was recorded and co-produced with Grammy-winning engineer/producer and Memphis native Matt Ross-Spang (Jason Isbell, Margo Price, Drive by Truckers) at the historic Sam Phillips Recording Service, the studio built by the legendary producer after outgrowing his Memphis Recording Service/Sun Studio. Information courtesy 11:11 Presents Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Connecticut-based Connoisseur Media has agreed to sell its six Billings radio stations to Desert Mountain Broadcasting, a media company formed in 2018 by the company's regional vice president and general manager Cameron Maxwell. The stations include: KPLN-FM "Planet 106.7," KWMY-FM "MY 105.9," KRZN-FM "The Zone 96.3," KRKX-FM "K-Sky 94.1," KYYA-AM "News Talk 730," and KBLG-AM "ESPN 910." News of the sale was announced Tuesday in a press release from Connoisseur Media. Maxwell, who is based in Billings, said he will remain in his role with Connoisseur Media pending Federal Communications Commission approval of license transferal for the stations. That decision is expected in about 60 days, he said. The six stations will continue to operate under the Connoisseur Media banner until the license transferal is approved, Maxwell said. "My whole intent of purchase is to give some stability and roots to this organization that has been here for 14 years," he said. The sale had been in the works for over a year. Connoisseur has "divested" properties in North Dakota and South Dakota, so, "It was just the right time to move everything local," Maxwell said. A pro-levy campaign raised about $36,000, according to reports filed April 25. About half of that money was reported spent at the time of the report. Yard signs, billboards, radio ads and a new website all touted the levy. Students showcased tattered textbooks. Upham was aggressive in advocating for the levy. +2 Tattered textbooks too fragile to send home, teach outdated info, Billings school levy supporters say Perhaps the best thing that students and teachers could say about textbooks at Billings Senior High is that they rarely get stuffed into a backpack. Billings has passed some recent elementary levies, in addition to a $122 million bond in 2013. But the high school district, which includes surrounding K-8 districts like Independent, Elder Grove and Blue Creek, has been a tougher sell. The 2007 high school levy, the most recent to pass before this year, won by a whopping 3,000-plus vote margin. But it didn't set a trend. That vote had a big-ticket item on a topic that had resonated with the community; money would be used to reopen Beartooth Elementary, which had been shuttered since 2001. This year's levy supporters have pushed the importance of replacing textbooks and providing better career counseling. But it's hard to say either of those options is as tangible as a school reopening. On Tuesday night, Upham hoped that this was the beginning of a trend that would stick, unlike 2007. Todd Capser, as alleged, managed to mislead a Canadian financial institution into lending him more than $43 million, and tried to mislead other financial institutions into lending him tens of millions of dollars more, by creating mountains of false evidence of his solvency to represent himself as a legitimate business owner," said U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman in a press release. "Capser is now in custody and faces significant time in prison for his alleged crimes. The FBI also identified Capser's father, Edward Michael Capser, as being part of the scheme, though criminal charges have not been filed against Edward Michael Capser. The father and son are both defendants in the related civil lawsuit. The father is known as an artist in the Billings community. Filed in a federal district court in Montana on April 10, the civil lawsuit identifies Edward Michael Capser as backing the $43 million loan with a bogus investment portfolio worth at least $30 million. No one answered the phone Wednesday when The Billings Gazette attempted to contact Edward Michael Capser. Gov. Steve Bullock on Tuesday signed into law a measure aimed at sex traffickers and customers of illicit massage businesses. SB 147, carried by Sen. Margie MacDonald, D-Billings, criminalizes commercial sex acts that are direct and not through a clothing barrier. Until now, only commercial intercourse was illegal. That portion of the bill, advocates said, was designed to crack down on illicit massage businesses that offer commercial sex acts that fall short of intercourse. While non-intercourse sex acts now fall under the prostitution statutes in Montana, only customers or traffickers and not those selling sex can be prosecuted, according to language built into the law. The bill also takes aim at sex traffickers, by allowing prosecutors to seek increased penalties against them. Until now, those increased penalties were available only for the customers who bought commercial sex. Finally, the bill changes the definition of consent so its unavailable if a defendant knew or reasonably should have known that the person giving consent was a trafficking victim or was subjected to force, fraud or coercion. A former federal game agent has admitted possessing child porn. Shawn Thomas Conrad, 49, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court on Tuesday to a single count of possession of child pornography. He faces up to 10 years in prison. Under a plea agreement, Conrad has agreed to pay a victim $15,000 in restitution. The agreement would allow him to avoid a mandatory minimum prison term of 15 to 30 years, since the government has agreed to dismiss one count of sexual exploitation of a minor at sentencing. Conrad, a former U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agent, downloaded sexually explicit selfie images of girls, he said in court Tuesday. After reviewing them, he realized some of the subjects might have been underage and deleted them, he told Judge Susan Watters. Two or three of the pornographic images he downloaded were later determined to be minors, Conrad said. As part of that work, law enforcement has seized 245 pounds of meth, representing nearly 890,000 doses and carrying an estimated street value of $11 million, according to a press release from Alme. Theyve also seized 212 firearms, including 57 semiautomatic assault-style rifles. Montanas violent crime rate outpaces most other states in the Northwest, aside from South Dakota, Alme said. That includes states with larger urban centers like Utah and Washington, he noted. Hand in hand with efforts to boost arrests and prosecution is an attempt to address the appetite for drugs locally specifically meth. Yellowstone County Attorney Scott Twito said that second prong of the approach was just as important. These guys are awesome at stopping supply, Twito said, gesturing to the members of law enforcement standing behind him. But we still have a demand out there, and until we tackle that as well, until we partner with the right community partners and really figure that out, were not really going to have dramatic impact on child abuse and neglect cases. Kary's bill to take away the local health boards' authority under the Montana Indoor Clean Air Act sailed through the Senate. It received closer scrutiny from the House Local Government Committee, which devoted more than two hours to the bill hearing and asked many questions of proponents and opponents. The committee also had the opportunity to review Todd's court decision. In the past decade, nine county boards of health, including Yellowstone's, have established setback rules, according to testimony from a Montana health department representative. She said those rules have generated only 14 complaints statewide in 10 years. Signage and community awareness has taken care of problems, making the local rules part of the successful public health policy established in the Montana Clean Indoor Air Act. The bill that passed the Senate would have retroactively rescinded local board of health rules everywhere in Montana, not just in Yellowstone County. No valid complaints have been received involving the setback and e-cigarette rule since it took effect in March 2018, according to a RiverStone Health spokeswoman The Gazette contacted last week. RiverStone is our county health department. Rock Creek It is fishing well with this weeks cool temperatures. Usually by Mothers Day the creek is on the rise with the start of runoff, but as of early this week it remains perfect to fish. This could all change in the next 10 days, so go and enjoy. Though there were some improving reports on the dry fly fishing, an angler's best bet continues to be nymph and streamer fishing. Should an angler find the opportunity to fish on top, dry fly patterns to fish are a tan Caddis (14), Midge Clusters (16-18) and BWO (16-18). Nymph fishing continues to be similar to last weeks report. Recommended nymph patterns include San Juan Worms in red, purple or tan (8-10), Caddis Pupa or Caddis Emergers in tan or olive (14-16), Zebra Midges in red or black (16-18), as well standard Hares Ears or Pheasant Tails (12-16). Attractor nymphs like red or chartreuse Copper John are tough to beat. The Batman Nymph, Montana Prince in blue as well as varied Psycho Princes and Lightning Bugs (12-16) can fish as well as any natural patterns. Stonefly nymphs can be deadly. Those patterns include Rubber Legs, Girdle Bugs, Bitch Creeks, Red Fox Squirrel nymphs and North Fork Specials in black or tan. Streamers continue to be the best way to fish. Use Sparkle Minnows, The Grinch, Krystal Flash Buggers in black or olive as well as the Kelly Galloup patterns. East Rosebud Fly Shop, Billings. The North Dakota Grain Growers Association on Tuesday announced a decision to withdraw from the National Association of Wheat Growers. NDGGA president Jeff Mertz of Hurdsfield submitted a letter on May 3 notifying Ben Scholz, NAWG president, of the North Dakota groups resignation from the national association. The vote to leave the national group by the North Dakota associations board of directors was unanimous. The move ends a relationship that started in 1977. Considering North Dakota consistently paid some of the highest dues out of all the states represented by NAWG, we believe were no longer seeing an adequate return on investment and have decided not to renew our contract that expires on June 30, 2019, Mertz said in a Tuesday news release. He said the relationship with NAWG had been a beneficial one but, in recent years, NDGGA had seen a decline in support for issues specifically affecting North Dakota. Mertz said in the release the national association still provides value to producers on the national level, but NDGGAs foremost focus is on North Dakota farmers and, at this time, we believe we can better represent their best interests by investing our resources elsewhere. Mertz in an interview said a number of factors influenced the decision but said much of it was based on philosophical differences. As an example, he cited an incident from 2008 when NDGGA asked for a letter of support about a crop insurance issue. NAWG declined, and Mertz said it seemed like a simple matter that wouldnt have affected other states. My point is theyre not adaptable, not flexible, he said. Scholz in a Tuesday news release said NAWG leadership did everything possible to address NDGGAs concerns. It is unfortunate that a major wheat-producing state, who provided unique insight into national policy and influenced others in the industry, wont be moving forward with NAWG, he said. Mertz said money that had been used for NAWG dues in the past will now be used to fund additional efforts at the state level. NAWG dues are based on the number of bushels sold in each state. (Reach Travis Svihovec at 701-250-8260 or Travis.Svihovec@bismarcktribune.com) Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Rachel Roehrich created a website to help students navigate life in high school and connect them to mental health and addiction resources. The website was an idea generated by Roehrich, a sophomore at Century High School, and a small group of classmates in a leadership class as a one-stop, user-friendly site for students. "It's focused mainly around mental health," Roehrich said. The site, called CHS Corner, launched Wednesday. It includes tips for students on topics such as effectively managing stress, an information section with articles for students and a school and community resources page. Roehrich and her classmates were one of 17 student groups in North Dakota that received funding through North Dakota first lady Kathryn Burgum's Youth Ending Stigma Challenge a program that awarded up to $1,000 to student-led projects aimed at getting rid of the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction. Burgum visited Century on Wednesday for the website launch and talked with Roehrich and other students about her goal to include youth in her platform on addiction and mental health. "Youth want to be the advocates," Burgum said. "They have so much passion around advocacy, and I was hoping they could direct some of that advocacy to eliminate stigma and take a leadership role in that." Roehrich and other students hung up signs in the school on Wednesday with QR codes students can scan to take them directly to the CHS Corner website. Only students and teachers with a school email can access the site. Students also may submit questions for the website, which other students post their answers online. "In a world of information, where there's information everywhere, ciphering through it is very difficult, so now they have a one-stop access for all kinds of information," said Laurie Foerderer, who teaches the leadership class. Foerderer said she hopes future students in her leadership class will sustain the website. "We're going to keep this going as long as it stays relevant," she said. Burgum also has visited other schools that received grants through the YES Challenge, and she said she's also taking the opportunity to ask schools about what mental health and addiction resources they have available. On Wednesday, Burgum was told about the four counselors and full-time social worker at Century. Assistant principal Sharon Espeland also told Burgum about a new "transition center," or an alternative room in the school where students with anxiety can go and do school work. Espeland also said they started contracting with a licensed psychologist this year, who comes into the school one day a week to work with students. Burgum said Wednesday she's supportive of additional funding for behavioral health services in schools. "I would be a huge proponent of having more behavioral health (resources), and how do we get the funding to make that happen in schools, or redirect funding?" she said. Burgum also said she plans to continue youth engagement, though funding for the YES Challenge was only for this school year. She said this summer she'll discuss whether to continue the program or similar initiatives next year. (Reach Blair Emerson at 701-250-8251 or Blair.Emerson@bismarcktribune.com) Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 1 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. North Dakota's Peace Officer Standards and Training Board has suspended the license of a Burleigh County officer. In its unanimous vote Wednesday, the POST Board agreed on the six-month license suspension for former Lt. Casey Kapp, who may not in that time commit any violations of the North Dakota peace officer code of conduct. Kapp was demoted to a detention officer, suspended for five days and ordered to seek an alcohol and mental health evaluation and treatment after arriving for work hours after heavy drinking. Officers responding to a welfare check in early February found him "extremely intoxicated" and making concerning comments, according to Burleigh County Chief Deputy Gary Schaffer, who appeared before the board to provide details of his internal investigation into Kapp. Kapp reportedly drank until after midnight, returning to duty at 8 a.m., Schaffer said. The Burleigh County Sheriff's Department has an eight-hour policy for return to duty after alcohol consumption. A chemical test found Kapp's alcohol concentration was 0.053% around 11 a.m., said Schaffer, who added that Kapp drove his squad vehicle to work and carried his sidearm. Driving under the influence in North Dakota is set at 0.08% alcohol concentration or greater. Burleigh County Sheriff Kelly Leben said Kapp has been a good employee and may be considered for future promotion after a year of good behavior. "What I will say on Casey's behalf is he made a mistake and he made a significant one," Leben said. "But like I said, I've got to commend him the way he's handled it, to come back from it." POST Board member Tom Falck, a Grand Forks County commissioner, expressed concern for Kapp's behavioral health. "There's a lot of bad behavior here and he needs to get his life together before he's back," Falck said. Schaffer said Kapp has complied with his evaluation and treatment requirements. POST Board members' vote also included a stipulation in the motion that Kapp appear before the board for reinstatement of his license after the six-month suspension, which began Wednesday. Kapp did not appear before the board. Reach Jack Dura at 701-250-8225 or jack.dura@bismarcktribune.com. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 3 Sad 3 Angry 2 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A 17-year-old boy appeared in court Tuesday for charges stemming from what was described as a riot earlier last year at the Youth Correctional Center in Mandan, which resulted in multiple staff members being injured. Elijah Barse is one of four teens facing multiple felony charges. Gavin Johnson, Starson Buckles and Julian Wolf also have been charged. According to court documents, at about 8 p.m. Jan. 28, 2018, a North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper responded to an "active riot" taking place at the YCC. When he arrived, he found four inmates trying to escape from the facility. The four inmates were residents of Pine Cottage, one of several housing structures on the YCC campus. Pine Cottage houses high-risk or high-maintenance male juveniles, as well as serves as the intake cottage for all new male admissions, according to the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation's website. Barse is accused of assaulting a staff member and attempting to escape, court documents say. Court documents allege Johnson assaulted three staff members and tried to break a door window with a chair. When the trooper arrived on scene, he shot Johnson in the leg twice with a bean bag round for refusing to comply with commands. Buckles also is accused in court documents of assaulting four staff members. Michelle Linster, a public information officer for the DOCR, said staff members did not have serious injuries. At Barse's first court appearance on Tuesday, Morton County State's Attorney Allen Koppy recommended Barse's bond be set at $100,000 "due to the serious nature of the alleged offenses, as well as the risk of flight." South Central District Judge David Reich agreed to his recommendation. According to Austin Gunderson, Morton County assistant state's attorney, Barse is being held at the YCC. Johnson and Buckles have pleaded not guilty to charges and remain at the YCC on $10,000 bonds. Their trials are scheduled for July 10. Wolf pleaded guilty to charges in March and is awaiting sentencing. (Reach Blair Emerson at 701-250-8251 or Blair.Emerson@bismarcktribune.com) Love 0 Funny 3 Wow 2 Sad 0 Angry 1 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The new Bismarck High School auditorium will be dedicated to former BHS graduate Roy Gilbreath, who made a donation to the project. The dedication ceremony will take place during a public open house this fall, when the auditorium is complete. Roy Gilbreath, who was born on June 11, 1930, in Mott, attended second grade through high school in Bismarck, where he graduated from Bismarck High School in 1948. Roy attended the University of Minnesota for one year before enlisting in the United States Air Force and serving four years during the Korean War. He continued college at Montana State University and graduated with a degree in agronomy. After graduation, he worked several years for Doanes Agricultural Services. He later returned to Bismarck, where he worked as a land leasing agent. as well as working for the North Dakota State Legislature. Gilbreath, who still wears his letterman's jacket on occasion, is best known for being the chief clerk of the House of Representatives from the late 1960s through 1997 with the exception of the 1983 legislative session. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A North Dakota lawmaker said Wednesday he was taken aback by the tongue-lashing he received from a fellow legislator during a recent meeting over wind turbine regulations. The Emmons County Record newspaper reported Wednesday that Rep. Jeff Magrum, R-Hazelton, confronted fellow Rep. Mike Brandenburg, R-Edgeley, during a county commission hearing a week ago and yelled, "Who do you represent?" In an interview, Magrum confirmed the incident and said law enforcement officers asked him to sit down, which he did. "He was screaming. He was out of control," Brandenburg said, adding that the outburst lasted several minutes. At issue were proposals to increase setback requirements for wind turbines. The commission ultimately agreed to boost those buffer zones, but didn't go far enough for Magrum, who has raised concerns over wind farms' effect on property rights. Magrum questioned why Brandenburg, a wind energy advocate, was speaking at an Emmons County hearing when he lives in LaMoure County. Both lawmakers represent District 28, which covers a wide area of south-central North Dakota, including all of Emmons County and part of LaMoure County. "I just have a problem with legislators being lobbyists," Magrum said. "He wasn't representing county residents. That was a meeting for residents of the county." Magrum later admitted he "didn't act appropriately." "But I feel like sometimes you just have to speak up, whether it's appropriate or not," he added. Brandenburg said he was invited by the commission chairman to speak. He said he tried to dispel some "misinformation" and argued setbacks pushed by Magrum and his son, who's a member of the county commission, were "unreasonable." "I have every right in the world to speak in Emmons County," Brandenburg said, calling Magrum's conduct "very unprofessional." Bob Harms, a wind energy lobbyist who has long been involved in state politics and attended the meeting, said he had "never seen anything like that." Emmons County Commission Chairman Leonard Weichel declined to comment on the confrontation between the two lawmakers. Lawmakers this year approved a resolution championed by Magrum seeking a legislative study on whether setback distances "provide adequate protections to nonparticipating landowners and their property." Brandenburg also testified at a heated public hearing in Bismarck last December, speaking in opposition to the Burleigh-Emmons wind project proposed by PNE. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 North Dakota should have learned a long time ago that dreams of luring the film industry to the state are just that dreams. The state has lost money pursuing a Hollywood hit. Now, theres a proposal to have a legislative study to examine whether movie incentives could be developed to lure filmmakers to the state. Under the proposal an interim committee would look at what neighboring states offer film companies and the possible economic impact. Legislators on the Legislative Management committee will decide what proposals to study before the 2021 legislative session. The Tribune Editorial Board recommends the committee pass on the film study. The state hasnt had any luck with the movie business. The most notable example is the Wooly Boys filmed in the Badlands in the fall of 2000 with actors Peter Fonda, Kris Kristofferson and Keith Carradine. The Bank of North Dakota approved a $3.9 million loan in 1999 for the film. However, the producers struggled to find a distributor and the film was shown in only a few theaters and was a financial failure. In 2006 the Bank of North Dakota wrote off $1.66 million of the $3.9 million loan. In 2013, a California-based company, Princebury Productions & Media, with a focus on family-oriented films, held a banquet to drum up support for a TV mini-series on Theodore Roosevelts life. The company expressed an interest in establishing a film presence in the state and wanted to help develop North Dakotas infrastructure for a film industry. They suggested the state offer tax incentives to filmmakers or establish an active film commission division at the Department of Commerce. Nothing came of the mini-series or the other proposals. Other efforts to shoot movies in North Dakota also failed to get off the ground. As the legislative session was winding down last month House Minority Leader Josh Boschee, D-Fargo, was asked by some Bismarck filmmakers to help revive unsuccessful 2013 legislation for film incentives. Boschee proposed a study and it was amended into the state Department of Commerce budget. Sara Otte Coleman, director of the state Tourism Division, told reporter Jack Dura that the state doesnt offer any incentives, but does "support" interested filmmakers when contacted, usually with locations. Thats how it should be done. In 2013 the Tribune editorialized that Films wanting help from the state of North Dakota should be eligible for the same kinds of financial support and incentives as other business. There shouldn't be a special pool of money for movie companies. The state's past experience in funding film projects should be enough of a caution to warn off dreams of Hollywood on the prairie. The Tribunes opinion hasnt changed since the 2013 editorial. It would be great to have a movie blockbuster filmed in the state. The odds of that happening are slim. If a company wants to film in North Dakota it should be done on their own dime. The state can provide help where possible, but we shouldnt foot the bill. We understand the desire of young filmmakers for incentives, but unfortunately theres unlikely to be much return on the investment. Financing needs to come from the private sector. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 BLACK REPUBLICAN BLOG - The Republican Party is the party of civil rights and the four Fs: faith, family, freedom and fairness. The Democratic Party is the party of the four Ss: slavery, secession, segregation and socialism (Quote By Author Michael Scheuer). This morning three events took place that deserve the attention of those who support a free and virtuous society: Persecuted Christian Asia Bibi has received asylum in Canada, the royal babys name has been revealed, and it is the birthday of one of the greatest economic theorists of our time. 1. Asia Bibi arrives safely in Canada Asia Bibi, the Pakistani convert to Christianity who spent years on death row for blasphemy, has arrived safely in Canada to be with her family. Authorities arrested Bibi (whose name is Asia Noreen) after a disagreement with fellow villagers in June 2009, and a court convicted her of blaspheming Islam in 2010. The Pakistani Supreme Court overturned the conviction due to lack of evidence last October, touching off nationwide riots. However, Bibi was not allowed to leave the nation, first pending judicial review and then because no nation was willing to receive her. UK Prime Minister Theresa May refused to grant Bibi asylum for fear of violent reprisals. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau deserves credit for his high-profile embrace of Bibi, who arrived safely on Canadian soil this morning, according to family attorney Saif-ul Malook. A family member says Canadian authorities will keep the family under tight security. Even in another hemisphere, their lives are endangered. Rep. Chris Smith, R-NJ, greeted the news by saying Bibi deserves to live a life without fear after experiencing a harrowing ordeal of a false blasphemy conviction, prison, death row, and death threats. After so much international attention on this case, Pakistans Supreme Court should be commended for overturning Asia Bibis baseless death sentence, but there are at least 40 Christians, Ahmadis, and other religious minorities on death row or serving life sentences on blasphemy charges right now. Her case underscores how fundamental, and endangered, conscience rights are. 2. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reveal royal name Prince Harry and Meghan Markle revealed the name of their newborn son: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The royal heir was born at 5:36 a.m. on Monday, May 6 at 7 pounds, 3 ounces. Until late this morning (or early afternoon London time), the child had been called only Baby Sussex. Archie is Queen Elizabeth IIs eighth great-grandchild. He is also seventh in the line of royal succession behind Prince Charles, Prince of Wales; Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, and his children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis; and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex. Contrary to many media reports, Archie will not be the first biracial royal family member but is the first since the time of Queen Charlotte, who reigned from 1761 to 1818. That includes the time of the American Revolution; this child may be the first royal to become a dual U.S.-UK citizen. The royal couple released the childs first photo the same way they announced his conception: on Instagram: As we say in the Eastern Christian tradition (into which the childs great-grandfather, Prince Philip, was born): God, grant him many years. 3. Today is Friedrich von Hayeks 120th birthday Friedrich August von Hayek, the Nobel Prize-winning economist best known for The Road to Serfdom, would have turned 120 years old today. Hayek fled the clutches of totalitarianism. He exposed the impossibility of central planning by any government, whether fascist or socialist, in his essay The Use of Knowledge in Society. He received the Nobel Prize for economics in 1975. And he survived to perform what appeared to be socialisms postmortemin 1992s The Fatal Conceit. Despite the crude caricature of the Austrian as a base homo economicus forever calculating and re-calculating marginal utility, Hayek understood the vital role a free and virtuous society (based on moral precepts like honesty) plays in facilitating free exchange. Kai Weiss writes in his tribute at the Austrian Economics Center: This does not mean that the economy could simply do whatever it wants. Indeed, as Hayek pointed out, a free economy would also need the moral foundations that supplement the economy and prevent it from going rogue. Social institutions, mores, traditions, and habits, having developed over decades and centuries not by the government, but by the actions of individuals themselves interacting with one another, would act as a check against those results of the market we do not like. That is, a free society would need a healthy civil society next to a free economy. I would add that Hayeks words continue to remain relevant to todays headlines. Hayek wrote that collectivism thrives on coerced acts of putative virtue: What our generation is in danger of forgetting is not only that morals are of necessity a phenomenon of individual conduct but also that they can exist only in the sphere in which the individual is free to decide for himself Responsibility, not to a superior, but to ones conscience, the awareness of a duty not exacted by compulsion, the necessity to decide which of the things one values are to be sacrificed to others, and to bear the consequences of ones own decision, are the very essence of any morals which deserve the name. That applies to Anne Frank, and Cardinal Mindszenty, and Asia Bibi, and the nameless, faceless, and endless victims crushed beneath the mobs will to power. (Photo credit: Pictured, Asia Bibi. HazteOir.org. This picture has been cropped. CC BY-SA 2.0.) Boston enacted a law against short-term housing rentals that included these provisions: (1) a $300/violation/day fine for booking illegal short-term rentals (the penalties provision), (2) a city-wide ban on booking agents that dont honor notice-and-takedown or verify vendor licenses (the enforcement provision), and (3) mandatory reporting about bookings (the data provision). Airbnb sought a preliminary injunction against these provisions, relying on Section 230 and other objections. Endorsing Airbnbs San Francisco (one of my top 10 Section 230 cases of all time) and Santa Monica decisions, the court says Section 230 does not preempt the penalties provision, which: is aimed at regulating Airbnbs own conduct, and not at punishing it for content provided by a third party.The fine is neither expressly tied to the content of the underlying listing, nor explicitly aimed at penalizing the manner in which Airbnb has structured its booking and payment services. It is triggered based on Airbnbs own conduct as a participant in the rental transaction, and it simply requires Airbnb to crossreference bookings against the Citys list of ineligible units before collecting its fees, thereby fairly charg[ing] Airbnb with keeping abreast of the law governing its own behavior. In my San Francisco and Santa Monica posts, I critiqued why courts are wrong to bifurcate between transactions and content and downplay the censorious effect of verification obligations. In response, the court invokes the lawless no-mans land language that traces its origins to Roommates.com (even though Ive noted repeatedly observed that a puppy has a bad day every time a court invokes the phrase): This Court is not persuaded that Congress, in enacting the CDA, intended to grant blanket immunity to all of a multifaceted companys conduct simply because the company can point to one part of its business involving publication of third-party content, and can then imagine ways in which regulation of its other conductno matter how attenuated from its online publication functionswill force it to make changes to the design of its platform. As a matter of law, the Court concludes that the Penalties provision reaches Airbnb in its capacity as a booking agent and payment processor. In doing so, it imposes no liability, nor requires any action, that necessarily arises from Airbnbs publication of content provided by another. In a footnote, the court emphasized the threatened fine arises from Airbnbs collection of a fee for booking an ineligible rental unit, and in no way depends on anything a units owner says when advertising the rental. The court says that its result wont require Airbnb to eliminate its transaction functions. Instead, the court thinks Airbnb can rely on the indemnity provision in its TOS (Seriously??? Yes, seriously) to make vendors pay what it characterizes as a relatively modest fine. What makes a fine of $300/violation/day modest? Its less than the fines and criminal sanctions that other cities have tried to impose. Raise your hand if you can think Airbnb could actually get its vendors to indemnify it. While the courts result follows the San Francisco and Santa Monica decisions, Airbnb reasonably argued that, in light of the Doe v. Backpage opinion and others, the First Circuits Section 230 jurisprudence is broader than the Ninth Circuits. The court disagrees: Having considered the relevant First and Ninth Circuit decisions, this Court perceives no material differences in how the two Courts of Appeals interpret the CDA. Indeed, the Jane Doe decision discusses Ninth Circuit precedent without distinguishing or questioning it, including with respect to the critical prong of the inquiry here. If I were asking the Supreme Court to deny a Section 230 cert petition because there isnt a circuit split, Id cite this language. The court adds: To the extent Airbnb views the California decisions as outliers, it mischaracterizes the state of the law. Those cases are the only other federal court decisions resolving CDA challenges to similar local ordinances. But see Airbnb, Inc. v. City of New York, Nos. 18 Civ. 7712 & 7742, 2019 WL 91990, at *23-24 (S.D.N.Y. Jan. 3, 2019) (enjoining a local datasharing requirement in a case not involving a related CDA challenge). All other cases upon which Airbnb relies involve materially distinct circumstancescivil claims explicitly seeking to impose tort liability on an online publisher for harm allegedly arising from postings made by third parties. The court rejects Airbnbs First Amendment challenge to the penalties provision, citing the Santa Monica ruling. Airbnb has slightly more success with its Section 230 challenge to the enforcement provision. Boston conceded that the Enforcement provisions threat of banishment in the event of a Booking Agents failure to agree to monitor and remove listings constitutes, in the Citys view, a threat of liability arising from the publication of third-party content for purposes of the CDA. Im not sure how often other cities would make such concessions. While I believe this is the first time a judge has accepted Airbnbs Section 230 sword against a citys short-term lodging rules, its hard to celebrate this development too much. If a city cant ban Airbnb for booking illegal transactions, but it can impose a substantial financial penalty for that conduct, whats the difference? In other words, if Airbnb doesnt win all facets of its legal challenge to the city ordinances, it probably doesnt really obtain the results it wanted. The court also partially grants an injunction on the data provision, enjoining the demands for any non-published data (a units usage data, including the number of nights it was occupied in a given time period) but not enjoining the demands for published data (the location description the vendor provided in the listing, and whether the listed accommodation is a room or an entire unit). While I appreciate Airbnbs efforts to blaze new trails using Section 230 as a sword, I wonder if the campaign has been a net success for Airbnb or the Internet community generally. The Ninth Circuits Santa Monica ruling has cemented an anti-Airbnb/anti-Section 230 result as Ninth Circuit law (unless that result can be changed in further proceedings, which I think is unlikely). At this point, any future litigation success for Airbnb will likely require a bold judge willing to sidestep significant adverse precedent. Odds are better that other judges will conform to the burgeoning adverse precedent. Case citation: Airbnb, Inc. v. City of Boston, 2019 WL 1981043 (D. Mass. May 3, 2019). The complaint. Related Blog Posts on Airbnb and HomeAway: * Ninth Circuit Chunks Another Section 230 RulingHomeAway v. Santa Monica (Catch-up Post) * Fourth Amendment Limits NYCs Demands for Airbnb Customer Records * Racial Discrimination Lawsuit Against Airbnb Has the Potential to Change Online MarketplacesHarrington v. Airbnb * Challenge to Santa Monicas Anti-Airbnb Law DismissedHomeaway v. Santa Monica * VRBOs Anti-Fraud Guarantee Doesnt Support Claim Over Fraudulent ListingHiam v. HomeAway * Airbnb Defeats Race Discrimination ClaimsHarrington v. Airbnb * Section 230 Doesnt Prevent City Regulation of Short-Term Rental Services (Again)HomeAway v. Santa Monica * Airbnb Gets Crucial Section 230 Win Over Unauthorized SubleasesLa Park La Brea v. Airbnb * Section 230 Helps VRBO Defeat Claim Over Fraudulent ListingHiam v. Homeaway * Another Collision of Housing Regulations and Online InnovationSF Housing Rights Committee v. HomeAway * Section 230 Ruling Against Airbnb Puts All Online Marketplaces At RiskAirbnb v. San Francisco * Court Upholds Airbnbs Terms of ServiceSelden v. Airbnb Yahoo! JAPAN Yahoo! JAPAN "Year after year, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer" NYT All along, even in 1987 at the peak of his myth when this Newsweek cover touted him as an icon of wealth, Donald Trump was a fraud. And the press played right along with the fraud. "Newly obtained tax information reveals that from 1985 to 1994, Donald J. Trump's businesses were in far bleaker condition than was previously known," report Susanne Craig and Russ Beutner at the New York Times in a major investigative feature. Donald Trump paid zero income taxes in 8 of the 10 years examined by the Times. "His losses were so big that in 1991 they accounted for fully 1% of all business losses declared that year by individual American taxpayers," wrote Susanne Craig. Excerpt: The data printouts from Mr. Trump's official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts, with the figures from his federal tax form, the 1040, for the years 1985 to 1994 represents the fullest and most detailed look to date at the president's taxes, information he has kept from public view. Though the information does not cover the tax years at the center of an escalating battle between the Trump administration and Congress, it traces the most tumultuous chapter in a long business career an era of fevered acquisition and spectacular collapse. The numbers show that in 1985, Mr. Trump reported losses of $46.1 million from his core businesses largely casinos, hotels and retail space in apartment buildings. They continued to lose money every year, totaling $1.17 billion in losses for the decade. In fact, year after year, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer, The Times found when it compared his results with detailed information the I.R.S. compiles on an annual sampling of high-income earners. His core business losses in 1990 and 1991 more than $250 million each year were more than double those of the nearest taxpayers in the I.R.S. information for those years. Over all, Mr. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years. It is not known whether the I.R.S. later required changes after audits. The kicker is one for the ages: While Donald Trump reported hundreds of millions of dollars in losses for 1990 and 1991, Fred Trump's returns showed a positive income of $53.9 million, with only one major loss: $15 million invested in his son's latest apartment project. Go read the whole thing, then go subscribe to the New York Times: Decade in the Red: Trump Tax Figures Show Over $1 Billion in Business Losses "He was just bleeding money every year." The New York Times journalist @susannecraig shares details from recently published reporting on Donald Trump's finances. According to Craig's findings, Trump lost more than a billion dollars from 1985 to 1994. https://t.co/RZVfV9Xura pic.twitter.com/1p3Oiyavq2 CNN (@CNN) May 8, 2019 This is an incredible chart from @russbuettner @susannecraig's new blockbuster on how "year after year, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer" https://t.co/PlaHRr5e7U pic.twitter.com/0uED0F41hs David W. Chen (@davidwchen) May 8, 2019 JUST POSTED: The New York Times has obtained 10 years of previously unrevealed figures from Donald Trump's federal income-tax returns from 1985 to 1994. Trump ran up $1.2 billion in core business losses in the decade we examined. LOTS here ? https://t.co/Yc23kj9HEa Susanne Craig (@susannecraig) May 7, 2019 We don't have Donald Trump's actual tax returns. Rather we obtained printouts from his official I.R.S. tax transcripts, with figures from his federal 1040, for 85 to 94. Here's an explanation of our sourcing -> pic.twitter.com/OwhXPgprpM Susanne Craig (@susannecraig) May 7, 2019 Donald Trump paid no income taxes in 8 of the 10 years we examined. His losses were so big that in 1991 they accounted for fully 1% of all business losses declared that year by individual American taxpayers. w @russbuettner https://t.co/Yc23kj9HEa Susanne Craig (@susannecraig) May 7, 2019 FATHER & SON: We now have tax info on Fred Trump & Donald Trump for a number of years. The upshot: Fred always made a lot of money. Donald always lost a lot of money. For a reminder on just how rich Fred was, here's our 2018 tax fraud investigation. https://t.co/9is4ZcpOY4 Susanne Craig (@susannecraig) May 7, 2019 Donald Trump reported $52.9M in interest income in 89. The number is BIG, according to IRS data we examined. We don't know what Trump owned that could produce this type of $. The answer is on schedules we don't have & underscores the importance of seeing Trump's full tax return Susanne Craig (@susannecraig) May 7, 2019 If Donald Trump's modern taxes ever come out it's important we see the 1040 form AND the attached schedules. The schedules will tell us sources of his income / how profitable (or not) his individual businesses are and more. So all the pages, as seen here? https://t.co/eTjyjrPLXX Susanne Craig (@susannecraig) May 7, 2019 Reminder that Trump's sister a federal judge resigned last month to end an investigation into "whether she violated judicial conduct rules by participating in fraudulent tax schemes with her siblings."https://t.co/miS76gBtj0 shauna (@goldengateblond) May 7, 2019 China's Xinjiang province is home to the country's Uyghur ethnic minority and other people of Turkic Muslim descent; it has become a living laboratory for next-generation, electronically mediated totalitarianism; up to 1,000,000 people have been sent to concentration/torture camps in the region, and targets for rendition ot these camps come via compulsory mobile apps that spy on residents in every conceivable way (naturally, war criminal Eric "Blackwater" Prince, brother of billionaire heiress Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, is into this stuff up to his eyeballs, as are other American collaborators). Key to maintaining the Chinese control over the region is the Integrated Joint Operations Platform (IJOP, which authorities use to spy on the population and each other. IJOP was created by the Hebei Far East Communication System Engineering Company, a subsidiary of the state-owned China Electronics Technology Group Corporation. Authorities interact with IJOP using an app, and after Human Rights Watch acquired a copy of this app, they contracted with Berlin's Cure53 to reverse engineer it. Now, they have published a massive, comprehensive, chilling report that provides the most thorough look into the cutting edge of Chinese high-tech totalitarianism ever seen. This is significant because Xinjiang is a beta-test for the rest of China. Earlier surveillance techniques that were pioneered on Uyghurs have had their rough edges smoothed out and then were rolled out for all Chinese people. And, thanks to the Belt-and-Road initiative, the Chinese state is gradually exporting much of their high-tech totalitarianism to client states around the Pacific Rim, sub-Saharan Africa, and elsewhere. This is the Chinese version of the shitty technology adoption curve: when you have a terrible, dehumanizing technological idea, you need to try it out first on people whose complaints go unheeded: prisoners, people on welfare, blue-collar and gig-economy workers, migrants and refugees, mental patients, kids. These people are used as involuntary testers for bad ideas, and the technologies that can be refined and normalized eventually find their way into everyone else's world. The IJOP app reveals that people in Xinjiang can be flagged for activities as innocuous as "not using the front door" or "not socializing with neighbors," as well as using any of 51 network tools, including VPNs, Whatsapp and Viber. The system automatically flags residents who use a phone not registered to them, or who use more electricity than their neighbors, or who leave their assigned residential area without police permission. The app dispatches officers to investigate people who get new phone numbers or who socialize with foreigners. The app also monitors the police, scoring officers on how many people they monitor, and how promptly they perform the tasks the system assigns to them. Human Rights Watch points out that "many perhaps all of the mass surveillance practices described in this report appear to be contrary to Chinese law." But that isn't stopping anyone. The intrusive, massive collection of personal information through the IJOP app helps explain reports by Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang that government officials have asked them or their family members a bewildering array of personal questions. When government agents conduct intrusive visits to Muslims' homes and offices, for example, they typically ask whether the residents own exercise equipment and how they communicate with families who live abroad; it appears that such officials are fulfilling requirements sent to them through apps such as the IJOP app. The IJOP app does not require government officials to inform the people whose daily lives are pored over and logged the purpose of such intrusive data collection or how their information is being used or stored, much less obtain consent for such data collection. The Strike Hard Campaign has shown complete disregard for the rights of Turkic Muslims to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. In Xinjiang, authorities have created a system that considers individuals suspicious based on broad and dubious criteria, and then generates lists of people to be evaluated by officials for detention. Official documents state that individuals "who ought to be taken, should be taken," suggesting the goal is to maximize the number of people they find "untrustworthy" in detention. Such people are then subjected to police interrogation without basic procedural protections. They have no right to legal counsel, and some are subjected to torture and mistreatment, for which they have no effective redress, as we have documented in our September 2018 report. The result is Chinese authorities, bolstered by technology, arbitrarily and indefinitely detaining Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang en masse for actions and behavior that are not crimes under Chinese law. China's Algorithms of Repression [Full report/Human Rights Watch] How Mass Surveillance Works in Xinjiang, China [Summary/Human Rights Watch] Florence Fang recently bought and renovated a unique concrete-dome house in California so it resembled the Flintstones' residence even more than it already did, adding giant dinosaurs in the yard and landscaping to match. The city of Hillsborough is suing her over the work, describing it as an "eyesore" and "public nuisance". In March, the town of Hillsborough filed a lawsuit against Mrs Fang, alleging that she failed to obtain the proper permits for her landscaping work, declaring her home a "public nuisance", and seeking a court order to remove the various "improvements" that have turned the home into what the town's lawyer describes as a "highly visible eye sore" that is not "in keeping with community standards". The dispute has casted a pall over Mrs Fang's enjoyment of the property, though I can attest that it is physically impossible not to smile while there. There are simply too many delightful surprises, from the lifesize Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle toys in the guest bedroom to the glass octopus on the wall in the foyer ("An octopus is always good company," Mrs Fang points out). Within moments of welcoming me into her "conversation room", she demonstrates the workings of a toy chicken that dances, shakes its rear end and then lays three (plastic) eggs. "Look at it! Look at it! Isn't that cute?" she laughs. "This is a happy place." Featured Post Watch now 'Understory: Tongass Forest Documentary' Destruction of Alaskan Coastal Rain Forest "There was a time when the less greedy you are, and the more you can give, the wealthier you are," said Marina Anderson, Haida, tr... Archive Search This Blog Donate to Censored News Please donate to Censored News for travel and equipment for our live coverage. Thank you, Brenda. About Censored News Censored News is published by Brenda Norrell. Since 2006, Censored News has received more than 20 million pageviews. As a collective of writers, photographers and broadcasters, we publish news of Indigenous Peoples and human rights. Contact publisher Brenda Norrell: brendanorrell@gmail.com From the publisher Censored News is published by Brenda Norrell, a journalist in Indian country for 39 years. Norrell created Censored News after she was censored and terminated as a staff reporter at Indian Country Today in 2006. She began as a reporter at Navajo Times during the 18 years that she lived on the Navajo Nation. She was a stringer for AP and USA Today and later traveled with the Zapatistas through Mexico. She has been blacklisted by all the mainstream media for 14 years. Contact brendanorrell@gmail.com Translate News / National by Staff reporter Zimbabwe-born United States-based actress Danai Gurira and American actor Forest Whitaker will join local stars for the upcoming documentary, "The Rise of Emmerson Mnangagwa".The film is being produced by Tatenda Gate and directed by Zimbabwe-born United Kingdom-based Kenny Gasa. According to the producer, the film is now on its pre-production and will be shot in Zimbabwe beginning of next month."We are just finalising on the budget and the shootings will begin next month. Danai and Forest will be coming down a week before the shoot. We have Asha Stuart from US, who is a scriptwriter and will be able to help us on research.''We also have Gunnar Orn, a film cinematographer, who will lead the film team together with Stefania Vignisdottir. The idea of the film is to capture the attention of black people across the globe and young forward thinking youths," he said.Forest Whitaker Gate said Zimbabweans should be able to tell their own story. "Zimbabwe has a short modern history and so much has happened. Some people don't even know what Rhodesia was. Our story has never been told and we have to be smart on how we tell the story.''The feature film is about the fight for independence in Zimbabwe focusing on President Mnangagwa's journey from his days as a young man, getting involved in anti-colonial politics through his time as a freedom fighter and evolving into a politician leading Government in a new Zimbabwe," he said.He said the film is inspired by freedom fighters who brought Independence and freedom to Zimbabwe."To understand the history of our country we wish to portray what life was like in Zimbabwe before colonisation and how Europeans raided the country in the late 19th century.''We will portray what it was like for the black majority to live under white rule in Rhodesia," he said.Gate said the film structure will encompass pre-colonial Zimbabwe, young Emmerson Mnangagwa's life in Rhodesia, his imprisonment and his role in the struggle for Independence to the birth of the Second Republic.The film will also explore ED's fresh mandate and vision for the future. Gate expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services for giving them the opportunity to start on the project, and corporates who are helping with funding. News / National by Staff reporter President Mnangagwa yesterday toured Matapi Flats in Mbare, Harare, to inspect renovations being undertaken by the Government as his administration fulfils its promise to refurbish the dilapidated hostels.The Head of State and Government visited the area last year, a few days before the July 30 elections after an inferno left 65 families homeless and promised to provide decent homes for the people of Mbare.The refurbishment is being done under the framework of the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP), which has the provision of decent housing among priority projects together with power generation, water and sanitation, and transport and communication. Government is carrying out the renovations in partnership with Harare City Council with the works being done by FGC Singapore.President Mnangagwa said he was satisfied with the progress, adding that all the blocks in Mbare will get a facelift."Remember that last year one block was burnt, I visited the place and promised residents there that I will look into the renovation of that block as well as the rest around that place," he said."When I visited the place, I discovered that they (flats) were very dilapidated, so I made arrangements with the company that you saw there who have so far attended to three or four blocks. They are going to all of the blocks around there. It was an issue of me inspecting progress to satisfy myself that what I asked them to do is what they are doing. We will revamp and renovate those places." Each block houses more than 500 people.President Mnangagwa said Harare City Council should find alternative places for people to stay for the few days the blocks were being renovated. Residents are reportedly resisting to be moved for fear that they will not be allowed back."The constraint which is there is not of the company, it is on people staying in those rooms," he said."It's very difficult for them to be moved away, some of them are resisting and they need only to be removed for a week or two such that the place gets renovated and they come back. On the part of the Harare City Council, it is the one that should move these people. A section must be moved, put in another place where they can stay for the week or two weeks and be brought back. I have been discussing with officials and we agreed that they will be doing it in sections. They take a section, people are removed for a while, the place is painted, floors are repaired, toilets are done, lights reconfigured and people come back to a decent place."Renovation works being done involve the painting of the building, rehabilitation of the sewer and water system and the painting of the pre-cast wall which surrounds council offices. City council offices and Matapi Clinic have also received restoration.Local Government, Public Works and National Housing Minister July Moyo said provision of decent accommodation was President Mnangagwa's priority as the nation moves towards attaining Vision 2030."This is the President's initiative after he visited this area last year when he wanted to have an appreciation of how the people in Mbare were living," he said."He then said as Government we have to renovate Matapi Flats such that they become habitable. That's his vision. This work, being done by FGC Singapore, is just the beginning of good works to come. When real work begins, you will see that it won't be Matapi only but even the market stalls will be refurbished. The President's vision involves having a smart city."FGC official Mr Francis Mambo said they had budgeted $1 million for the renovations."It will not be just Mbare alone," he said."We have areas like Bulawayo and Mutare and all other places that need to be rehabilitated once given the instruction by the President. You must understand that when he came here in 2018 he promised habitable places and this is the team that has come in. We have done a lot of things. It's not just painting we gave done the sewer system glazing and general cleaning of the building." News / National by Staff reporter It was again a last minute back to school shopping rush at the weekend and yesterday as parents and guardians prepared for the children's return to school for the Second Term.Acting Bulawayo Provincial Education director Mrs Olicah Kaira has commended parents in Bulawayo for ensuring that their children remain in school despite the prevailing economic challenges.The past week has been hectic with parents making a last minute rush to prepare for the opening of schools for the second term today.Retail outlets in Bulawayo's Central Business District have been a hive of activity as parents shopped for uniforms and other requirements such as books."We understand that things are hard and prices are rising everyday and this includes school pupils' requirements such as uniforms, stationery, school fees and levies. We want to therefore commend parents for sacrificing so that their children remain in school despite the economic difficulties," said Mrs Kaira.She said parents should strive to pay their fees on time "We urge parents to continue paying fees on time and ensuring that pupils have the required learning materials. Pupils must report to school on the first day and this culture of pupils not attending school on the first day should stop.Mrs Kaira reminded learners, especially those that will be sitting for public examinations that the second term is very crucial for exams preparations. "Use your time wisely and build your future, respect parents and teachers as you prepare for your exams," she said.It was a hive of activity at the Bulawayo Large City Hall car park yesterday as pupils boarded buses to their boarding schools ahead of the opening of the school term today Mrs Kaira urged teachers to be committed to their work and ensure that those sitting for exams adequately prepare."I urge teachers to ensure that the learning time is fully utilised for the benefit of their pupils.We are coming from holiday and I hope we are fresh and raring to go as teachers and pupils," she said.Mrs Kaira urged high school pupils to stop the culture of partying and 'boozing' on the last weekend of the school holiday."We are seized with the matter as a ministry. Can we be known for better things as Bulawayo? This is a very bad culture that must be stopped forthwith " she said.Mrs Kaira called on the parents to play their part in ensuring their children refrain from anti-social behaviour which puts their lives at risk such as alcohol and drugs abuse."We call upon parents to help us to ensure that we inculcate in our children good moral values. Schools can only complement parenting efforts that begin at home. I therefore call for a partnership between parents and the school. The last weekend of the school holiday should be used to ensure that all is in order before schools open. Check your uniforms, cover your books and stay away from all sources of bad influence. The future will reward you."Meanwhile, parents have appealed to schools authorities to give them time to pay school fees and levies. They said some school authorities have in the past sent pupils home for non-payment of fees despite the fact that this is against Government policy.The parents said school authorities should appreciate the prevailing economic challenges hence the need to give them time to pay whatever is outstanding as opposed to sending the pupils home.They said school fees, uniforms and stationery have been increased and many parents after buying the uniforms and other schools requirements were left with nothing and as such they want to be given time to raise money for fees and levies. News / National by Staff reporter PROMINENT industrialist and Presidential Advisory Council (PAC) member, Mr Busisa Moyo, has pleaded with Zimbabweans to have confidence in the ongoing processes of resolving prevailing currency distortions.Government and the private sector are agreed on the need to address the currency challenges on the back of a public outcry over recent price increases that are largely fuelled by speculative parallel exchange rates.The interbank exchange market has not yielded much change due to fewer sellers than buyers, prompting some businesses to revert to the parallel market, whose rates have soared to about USD1:5RTGS$ compared to about USD1:3,2RTGS on the formal market.While the RTGS$ has been used as a reference local currency since February this year, Finance and Economic Development Minister, Professor Mthuli Ncube, has hinted that a fully fledged currency will be introduced within the next 12 months.Speaking to young entrepreneurs at a British Council organised event in Bulawayo last Thursday, Mr Moyo said progress was being made in resolving the issue with Government having serious talks with key stakeholders."Discussion of the ushering in of a local currency in our country is currently underway and is gaining a lot of momentum."Government is trying to put the correct measures in place so that the currency is a success in the economy," he said.Mr Moyo said the biggest problem facing the economy was that Zimbabweans "lack confidence" in the interventions being put in place to deal with the challenges."For the local currency to work there must be confidence instilled in it and the Government, that is how our money will gain value but the problem with Zimbabweans is that they lack confidence in what is supposed to help them and the country, which is wrong," he said.Mr Moyo however, said that in the event the local currency drive was to take time before it was introduced, it would be wise for the country to adopt the rand."If the coming in of a local currency is to delay, it is more likely that the rand will be used as the main currency in the country because it is more accessible than any other currency in the country especially here in Bulawayo where we have most of our friends and family in South Africa," he said."The rand is not just available in Bulawayo but nationwide because 64 percent of our exports go to South Africa and a large chunk of our remittances are in the rand monetary value."Mr Moyo said the Ministry of Finance should be applauded for the good job they are doing in stabilising the macro-economic climate."The Ministry of Finance is doing a very good job in stabilising the economy. The ministry has successfully cut costs and overspending."In the past weeks the ministry has had a budget surplus, something that has not been achieved in a long time," he said.Recent Treasury reports indicate that Government has since late last year been making a surplus of about $100 million a month due to improved revenue collections and prudent public spending.Meanwhile, Mr Moyo, who is also the chief executive officer of United Refineries Limited, said his company was forging ahead with its plans to publicly list on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE). "Despite the prevailing economic challenges, URL is still gunning on going public. "Hopefully everything will be concluded by 2021."More information will be unveiled as time goes on," he said. News / National by Staff reporter A 64-YEAR-OLD headmaster from Zvishavane has been arrested for allegedly raping his 11-year-old niece at his home on two occasions while taking advantage of his wife's absence.Appearing before Gweru Provincial Magistrate Mrs Phathekile Msipa facing two counts of rape on Friday was a headmaster at a primary school in Zvishavane.The headmaster pleaded not guilty to both counts saying his fellow teachers were framing him as he was nearing retirement.He was remanded out of custody on $100 bail to May 20 for trial. It is the State case that on September 15 last year at around 1PM, the headmaster allegedly took advantage of his wife's absence and called the complainant to his bedroom.The court heard that the headmaster allegedly asked the complainant to peel an orange for him and she complied.After that as she was leaving the room, he allegedly grabbed her right hand and closed her mouth with his right hand before dragging her to his bed.The court heard that the headmaster allegedly gagged the girl before raping her once.He allegedly told her that if she told anyone about the alleged rape, he was just going to deny the allegations. The following day at around 1PM, the court heard that the headmaster allegedly called the complainant who was playing outside with her young brother to his bedroom. The court heard that his wife had allegedly gone to a nearby stream to do some laundry.Inside his bedroom while undressed, the headmaster pulled the complainant to his bed and raped her again. When the minor went to school the following day, she allegedly divulged her ordeal to her classmate whose father is a teacher.The classmate advised her to go and tell her father who referred her to a female teacher at the school.The court heard that the police came and arrested the headmaster at the school following an anonymous phone call to the police by one of the teachers who feared victimisation.Ms Prisca Kanhukamwe appeared for the State. News / National by Staff reporter TRANSPORT minister Joel Biggie Matiza yesterday said heads would roll at the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (Zinara) over cases of corruption involving millions of dollars.Matiza also admitted that the road authority was not carrying out its due mandate and had no authority to tender and contract jobs, which was the duty of local authorities.He made the remarks yesterday when he appeared before the Tendai Biti-led Public Accounts Committee, where he told Parliament that police were investigating corruption at Zinara, which had cost the country millions while roads were in a very bad shape.Some of the corruption cases at Zinara included the misuse of $71 million earmarked for special projects, awarding of millions worth of contracts to the same companies, for example, Univern, without going to tender, prejudicing the country of millions of dollars through contracts that were poorly negotiated, the $8 million graders tender scam and several issues of mismanagement, including hefty salaries and allowances for Zinara's top brass."As we speak, police are investigating issues at Zinara and all the core issues and core persons have been reported and arrests will be made," Matiza said."The law is taking its course and some people are paying bail now for such rotten work at Zinara, and the new Zinara board chaired by former Deputy Transport minister Michael Madanha has put in place a programme to ensure that there is financial probity at Zinara. The results will be seen in the future, and I can assure you that you will soon see things unravelling," he added.Matiza also defended his choice of Madanha as board chairperson, saying he was ably qualified and the best man for the job.MPs felt that it was unethical and contravened corporate governance rules for Matiza to appoint Madanha as board chairperson when he (Madanha) was deputy minister during the period when corruption and mismanagement was rampant at Zinara."He (Madanha) is a man of integrity and before he assumed office, a background check was done by security agents. He went through rigorous vetting and within four months of his term, he had done a lot to ensure that local authorities understand their role and the role of Zinara."That is why these investigations on Zinara have been constituted so that it does not do what is not on its mandate. I found him suitable and had scanned and scouted for someone who is suitable to run the institution," Matiza said.Biti then quizzed Matiza over gender equality and regional representation at the Zinara board.It turned out that out of the current eight board members, only two were women. Matiza said there were still four more openings for board members, adding and he would ensure that more women were appointed.Matiza also told the committee that heads were going to roll in the Zinara management, saying they were already looking for a substantive chief executive. News / National by Staff reporter Mayors around the country and councillors have engaged central government, demanding an increase in their allowances by at least 250%, citing the rise in prices of basic goods and services.The city fathers, through their umbrella body, Urban Councils Association of Zimbabwe (UCAZ), have approached government stating their case.UCAZ president, Gweru mayor Josiah Makombe confirmed the development, saying it was overdue as the cost of living had risen beyond the reach of many."We only want a cushion allowances to cover the costs of living. We have made a proposal to the Ministry of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing for consideration. We hope to hear from them soon," he said.UCAZ represents urban local authorities. From the proposal, the association has proposed that Harare mayor's allowance be increased from ZWL$1 250 to ZWL$2 250, the deputy mayor from ZWL$840 to ZWL$1 800, with committee chairpersons' moving from ZWL$560 to ZWL$1 650 and councillors' perks from ZWL$550 to ZWL$1 550.For Bulawayo, UCAZ wants the mayor to be paid ZWL$2 100 up from ZWL$1 000, his deputy ZWL$1 650 from ZWL$660 and committee chairpersons ZWL$1 575 up from ZWL$450, while councillors get ZWL$1 425 up from ZWL$400.On travel and subsistence allowances, the association wants the councils to be paying ZWL$80 for out of pocket allowances up from ZWL$10 per day, breakfast from ZWL$10 to ZWL$50, with lunch from ZWL$20 to ZWL$70 and dinner allowance ZWL$70 from ZWL$25.Harare council on its own recently made a resolution to start paying food allowances according to the prevailing hotel rates, while they wait for government approval. Attempts to get a comment from Local Government minister July Moyo on the matter were fruitless, as his mobile phone went unanswered, while permanent secretary George Magosvongwe was unavailable. News / National by Staff reporter MINES minister Winston Chitando has disclosed that government has not yet increased statutory mining fees, but was in the process of reviewing them."The long and short of it is mining fees have not been increased. There is a proposal discussion within the Mines ministry to review the mining fees but the process has not even taken off in terms of consultation within the ministry and government," Chitando told a Press conference in Bulawayo yesterday."However, there are discussions to review the mining fees and these discussions to review the mining fees will take a consultative process after which the increases will then be made public."According to a leaked document, government was proposing to increase mining fees across the board by 250%.Chitando also said Zimbabwe is only supplying about 4% of chrome ores and 2,5% of ferrochrome despite holding the second largest chrome ore reserves in the world.In 2018 output reached 350 000 tonnes, but government has plans to install new capacity to increase production by 20% to 418 000 tonnes.Speaking at a Press conference in Bulawayo yesterday, Chitando said Zimbabwe hoped to utilise the International Chromium Development Association (ICDA) conference being held in Victoria Falls, to boost chrome value addition and marketing."As a country, we hold around 12% to 15% of the world chrome resources, but at the same time, in terms of the production of chrome supplied to the world market, we only supply around 4% of chrome ores and around 2,5% of ferrochrome production," Chitando said."So, there is a big mismatch between the percentage of resource we have and hold versus the world chromium resources and what we are supplying. So, there is potential to increase the production of ferrochrome and for it to play a key role in the development of the economy and towards the achievement of Vision 2030".Chitando said Zimbabwe, through the conference, hopes to generate the appetite to uplift the production of the ores and also of the value-added chrome products."We have well over 200 delegates coming from across the world who will be coming for this. The conference was way oversubscribed with still more than a week to go. The level of interest to attend this conference has been absolutely phenomenally, and we are pleased as government.," he said.He said President Emmerson Mnangagwa would officially open the conference on Wednesday.The conference, which kicked off today, will end on Thursday."There will be an overview of international issues in terms of the market, supply situation and other chrome dynamics," he said.Chitando said he would deliver a paper on the opportunities chromium investments in Zimbabwe.This is the first time that the conference would be held in Zimbabwe. News / National by Staff reporter Seed Co Zimbabwe (Pvt) Ltd, has approached the High court seeking an order to commit the ex-general manager of former President Robert Mugabe's Gushungo Holdings, Stanley Nhari to prison after his failure to settle a US$36 062 debt.The seed company issued summons for civil imprisonment against Nhari on April 30, 2019 and the latter is yet to respond to the litigation.In its declaration, Seed Co Zimbabwe said Nhari was required to pay US$36 062 by virtue of a judgment which was obtained by the firm against him on May 9, 2018."You, the defendant (Stanley Nhari), are called upon to pay the plaintiff (Seed Co) the sum of US$36 062,18 with interest, thereon, at the rate of 5% per annum calculated from October 23, 2017 to the date of payment in full," the firm said."You are required to pay this sum by virtue of a judgment obtained against you in the High Court on May 9, 2018, under which you were ordered to pay the sum of US$36 062, 18 and interest thereon."Seed Co Zimbabwe further said in the event that Nhari failed to pay the debt, he would have to appear before the High Court and explain his failure to abide by the court order."If you fail to pay the sum specified above, you must appear before the High Court at Harare to explain why you have not paid it and to show cause why an order for your imprisonment shall not be made on account of your failure to pay."You should bring with you evidence of your financial position, and it will be in your own interest to give the court evidence of your income from wages, salary or other earnings, and any other income you may receive from any other source, your expenses for yourself and any dependents and any other liabilities you may be subject of." News / National by Staff reporter An armed robber was recently arrested after police officers found two spent cartridges and a stolen radio at a crime scene, where a motorist was attacked in Bulawayo.This was heard when Christopher Danda (35) appeared before Bulawayo magistrate Franklin Mkhwananzi, facing an attempted murder charge on Thursday last week.Danda was implicated by his alleged accomplice, who was found in possession of a pistol that after a forensic ballistic examination matched the spent cartridges recovered at the scene.In refusing his bail application, the court noted that Danda was not gainfully employed and his record showed that he was a habitual offender, thus he was likely to continue committing violent crimes.The court was told that on March 18, 2019 Danda in the company of five accomplices and armed with pistols, approached an unnamed resident who had just parked his car outside the gate of his home in Pumula South.Danda allegedly produced a pistol, intending to rob the complainant who, however, subsequently took off at high speed after noticing them.The court heard that the robbers gave chase in a white Mercedes Benz C200 getaway car, which had its number plates covered and fired two shots at the fleeing car.The resident escaped, but his car had two bullet holes on the driver's door and another on the boot. News / National by Staff reporter South African police have launched a manhunt for a 29-year-old Zimbabwean man who is accused of robbing, raping and killing his 59-year-old employer in Northem area under Limpopo Province.Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe said the murder was committed in July 2014."It is not clear whether the suspect, Adrew Ndlovhu, originally from Zimbabwe and is also known as Andrea Druza is still in South Africa or he went back to his home country," he said.More to follow..... News / National by Mandla Ndlovu A Bulawayo cross dresser and transgender activist Ricky "Rikki" Nathanson says President Emmerson Mnangagwa is a ruthless person who presided over the murder of 20 000 Zimbabweans during his time as Minister of State Security.Nathanson who fled Zimbabwe to America in 2018 told an LGBTI newspaper that Mnangagwa oversaw the killing of thousands of Ndebele civilians during the Gukarahundi massacres in the 1980s."Mnangagwa is a ruthless, ruthless man," said Nathanson.Nathanson sensationally claimed that ZANU PF invited her and other leading LGBTI activists to a press conference in Harare, 2018 elections because they wanted our vote."We voiced our skepticism at how genuine we thought the government and ZANU-PF was by reaching out to us," said Nathanson. "As we anticipated, nothing has really changed in Zimbabwe. If anything, it has gotten worse. I don't think it will get any better.""They're not saying anything outrightly adverse against the LGBT community of Zimbabwe, but they are not making any concession," she added. "It's like a simmering pot. There's something brewing at the bottom. One day they will announce something and it will just happen."Nathanson revealed to the LGBTI paper that he has been living in Rockville with Steve Brooks and his Zimbabwean partner, Talent Nyathi, and another Zimbabwean asylum seeker since December 2018. News / National by Mandla Ndlovu ZANU PF might fund violence during the MDC Congress so as to frustrate efforts of MDC leader Nelson Chamisa being endorsed as Pident, a South African based political analyst Fortune Mlalazi has said.Mlalazi was reacting to a high court judgement that was handed down on Wednesday which ordered Chamisa to cease acting as MDC President and that an extraordinary Congress must be held within a month using the 20014 MDC structures.Sad Mlalazi, "The court judgement is a clear attempt by attempt by the rogue ZANU PF regime to put stumbling blocks at the MDC Congress. I can tell you my brother that this is only plot A of the evil and murderous party. They have got a plan B which is to sponsor violence during the MDC Congress. Their modus operandi is known, tried and trusted."Mlalazi urged MDC members to introspect at the various court cases that have taken place in the fight for the soul of MDC before."MDC family has gone through this process before. Remember during the time when Professors Arthur Mutambara fought with Welshman Ncube at court. The matter dragged for ages and MDC continued to flourish."In any case Thokozani Khupe who the judgement insinuates that she is the acting President of MDC has held her Congress and is no longer part of the MDC family. Would you think she would disband her party and come back to the MDC?"MDC has indicated that it will contest the judgement but is going ahead with the elective Congress penciled for this month. By Tracy Rucinski CHICAGO (Reuters) - An Air Italy executive has joined a chorus of global airlines hurt by grounded Boeing 737 MAX jets but expects the airline to be profitable "very soon" and carrying five times as many passengers by 2022. "We have MAX pilots on the ground, sitting there doing nothing," Chief Operating Officer Rossen Dimitrov told Reuters. Sardinia-based Air Italy, which launched last year, was using three MAX aircraft to service routes to Sharm El Sheikh, Cairo and Dakar before regulators around the world grounded the fast-selling Boeing Co jets following two fatal crashes. With a fleet of just 13 aircraft, Air Italy has had to lease two Embraer jets and their crew from Bulgaria Air to cover routes heading into the peak summer travel season. Because Air Italy's pilots and crew are not trained on the Embraer, their work hours have fallen, Dimitrov said. Air Italy, which also flies non-stop from Milan to five North American destinations including new seasonal routes to Los Angeles, San Francisco and as of this week Toronto, has 1,146 employees. Larger airlines have warned that the 737 MAX groundings are hitting revenues and costs by hundreds of millions of dollars. [nL5N2270SV Still, loss-making Air Italy, owned by Italian holding company Alisarda and Qatar Airways, expects to be profitable "very soon," Dimitrov said. He declined to provide details but said shareholders "are happy" with a five-year business plan it recently shared that puts it on track to carrying 10 million passengers a year by 2022, versus 2.4 million carried so far. But Air Italy's U.S. expansion is facing scrutiny by Washington lawmakers who say it may violate a commitment made by its shareholder, state-owned Qatar Airways with a 49 percent stake, not to add new flights to the U.S. market. The lawmakers argue the U.S. routes may breach a 2018 aviation agreement between the United States and Qatar meant to address U.S. concerns that Gulf airlines are unfairly subsidized by their governments, distorting competition. Dimitrov dismissed the allegations as "completely false." Qatar is a minority investor that does not manage Air Italy's operations, which are fully compliant with European regulation, he said. It does not have a codeshare agreement with Qatar. The second largest Italian carrier after Alitalia said it is in talks with other international carriers over codeshare deals but declined to comment on possibilities with JetBlue Airways Corp, which plans to break into the low-fare, transatlantic travel market beginning in 2021. JetBlue last month asked the U.S. government not to restrict Air Italy from flying to the United States on concerns of retaliation on airline agreements by the European Union. (Reporting by Tracy Rucinski; Editing by Lisa Shumaker) Domino's Pizza. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images The results of two big UK companies this week throw into sharp relief the dangers of expanding rapidly in new markets. The UK-based Dominos Pizza Group (DOM) and online estate agent Purplebricks (PURP.L) both admitted to problems in overseas markets this week. Dominos, which has exclusive rights over the brand in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Luxembourg, told investors on Tuesday it would not make a profit abroad this year. Meanwhile Purplebricks founder and CEO Michael Bruce stepped down as his chairman apologised to shareholders for overly rapid overseas expansion in Australia and the USA. Neil Wilson, chief markets analyst at Markets.com, said: International expansion is not as easy as it looks just ask the boards of Purplebricks and Dominos. READ MORE: Why Purplebricks founder left after seven years at firm He said Dominos investors had been left disappointed by the announcement, especially after a tough period of trying to get the ducks in a line on overseas operations throughout 2018. International sales rose but only by 1.1%, and it was more than offset by the costs of early expansion in new markets. Wilson said the 4.1m loss recorded by Dominos internationally last year amounted to costly growth for a part of the business that is only about 10% of revenues. He said tensions with franchisees and greater competition from the likes of Deliveroo and Uber Eats were also growing challenges for the firm. There is undeniably a problem in delivering ongoing growth in the UK, whilst in international markets although there is certainly scope for expansion, management is currently finding it hard going, making investors more cautious about the near-term prospects, said the analyst. READ MORE: Best-selling new cars in Britain right now The exit of Michael Bruce at Purplebricks means a third top-level departure over poor performance at the online estate agent this year. The firms US and UK boss both left in February, with shares sliding significantly over the past year. Story continues Wilson said the company, which has taken the UK market by storm since launching in 2012, had tried to expand too fast at a difficult time in the property market. But he noted that they were now focusing on shoring up their UK core market and growth in promising Canada, while Australian operations are being wound up and the US operations potentially scaled back. The UK housing market has softened, prices are falling in Australia and cracking the US is proving very difficult. Purplebricks tried to run before they could walk and are paying the price for being just a little bit too ambitious, said Wilson. BANKING IS NOW A hermit's dream. If you want, you can bank and never encounter a human being. Even if you don't join an online bank, you can easily avoid other people while using a bank with brick-and-mortar branches. In fact, it's never been easier to do so, thanks to the long-dependable automatic deposit and the advent of smartphone deposits and online services such as PayPal.com and Google Pay to transfer money to another bank account. But just because you can bank without encountering human beings, it doesn't mean you always should. There are some key advantages -- as well as some drawbacks -- to using brick-and-mortar banking institutions. In a nutshell, the pros of banking at a branch are: -- You may have more luck fixing a banking problem with a person than by talking on the phone or clicking a lot of links. -- If you're struggling to get a loan, a person may have better ideas that a chatbot. -- If you want advice on a complex financial topic, a banker -- over an automated software program -- will likely be able to give it to you. Fixing problems. Do you get the occasional overdraft fee? Or maybe it isn't occasional. Maybe sometimes you check your balance only to find utter carnage, with fees galore, courtesy of one unexpected payment going through and numerous planned charges clearing as well. If you have any hope of getting those fees waived, it helps if you actually visit your bank sometimes, especially if the staff has come to know you. Not that a relationship with your bank's staff will necessarily save you, and this isn't to say you can't get fees dismissed if you belong to an online-only bank. But it stands to reason that if you get to know your bank's employees, and they get to know you, you'll have a better shot at receiving mercy than a fellow consumer who is a stranger to them. [Read: 6 Predictions for Banking in 2019.] Regardless, if you value personal relationships, you should keep your brick-and-mortar bank, says Robert Richardson, the owner and creative director at Richardson Marketing, a Las Vegas-based digital marketing agency for banks and credit unions. He also runs MarketingBanks.com, a financial service trends website. Story continues "There is still something to be said for being able to walk into a branch and talk to someone you know about your financial concerns. Yes, online banks have call centers, but they are hardly personal, and the chances of speaking to the same person more than once are pretty slim," Richardson says. Not that there aren't disadvantages to only having a brick-and-mortar bank. Richardson does think that if your primary goal of having a bank is to save money, then online banks are probably the way to go. "Traditional banks offer very little return on your money, as opposed to online banks that don't have the same overhead and can afford to pay interest even on traditional savings accounts," Richardson says. Of course, you can always have both -- a checking account with a bank that has brick-and-mortar locations -- and a savings account at an online bank. [Read: How to Close Your Bank Account Properly] Securing loans. If the bank manager knows your name and has a sense of your character, that may be the edge you need when it comes to getting approved, particularly if you aren't an elite banking customer and you have a few dings on your report. Of course, if you are an elite customer, you arguably need that face time, too. You may not have trouble getting loans, but you still want to understand the terms and may want to talk things over with a loan officer. Renee Newman, First Interstate Bank's chief banking officer and based out of Billings, Montana, says that customers of all ages don't seem to be interested in losing the human connection at their bank. She says that First Interstate Bank has concluded that even younger generations are not completely sold on only doing banking through technology. "Our research shows that Gen Z is trending toward the characteristics of an older generational cohort. They want all of the technology available for instant access and ease, but they want a human relationship," she says. She does think bank branches may get smaller over time, but she doesn't see them going anywhere. [Read: How to Cash a Check Without a Bank Account] Getting advice. Most banking is pretty basic. You need money, and you take it out of your account. You want to pay a bill, and so you do. But if you have loans with your banks, you might have questions about home equity lines of credit or what type of individual retirement account you need. You may appreciate calling on a human sounding board -- and not having to work everything out on your own. "People bank with people, not companies," says Adam Marlowe, principal experience officer for Georgia's Own Credit Union based out of Atlanta. He says that goes both ways, that banks recognize the value of meeting their customers. For that reason, even if some customers migrate to only doing banking online, he doesn't envision banks giving up on their bank branches. "The challenge is building the relationships," he says. "Brick-and-mortar locations will remain to a financial institution's long-term strategy, as the staff are challenged with reaching out to the community to understand how they can serve them better and in more convenient ways." Of course, everyone's personality and banking needs are different, and it may be that you really are better off bypassing your bank branch and even exclusively banking online. But if you have a branch that's conveniently located near you, it never hurts to start learning your bank tellers' names, and for them to learn yours. Sure, you save time by skipping an in-person visit. However, in the long run, if you're a banking hermit, you may be paying a higher price than you think. More From US News & World Report Tonia Grandy has been in a battle for years. Her arch enemy invasive green crab. She and her husband have caught and destroyed hundreds of thousands of the calamitous crustaceans from the Garnish Basin near where they live on Newfoundland's Burin Peninsula. They're lobster fishers and they're worried about the damage the invasive species is doing to their fishery. "I mean you can't help but be scared, especially if your livelihood depends on the fishery," said Grandy. Green crabs have no known predators and have voracious appetites. Tonia Grandy "They destroy the clams, scallops, will go after lobsters, juvenile fish, I mean everything's pretty much open game for food source for this guy," explained Grandy. Now the Fortune Bay fisher is focusing her efforts on another solution to control the population. "If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em," said Grandy. Just recently, she received a cookbook in the mail. The main ingredient in all recipes? The sea saboteur, the European green crab. The cookbook is written by Mary Parks and Thanh Thai, who are contributors to the Green Crab Research and Development project in the United States. "Down in the States they've been working really hard to try and find a way to utilize the green crab and they put a lot of effort into finding recipes," explained Grandy. "There's everything from soups and chowders and sandwiches to even pizza, green crab pizza." Tonia Grandy Grandy is taking an example from other coastal communities fighting marine invaders that have turned a downer into a delicacy. On the tropical island of Roatan, Honduras, invasive lionfish are devastating coral reefs and having a negative impact on commercial fisheries. Lionfish are native to the South Pacific but ended up in Caribbean waters, likely put there unwittingly by aquarium owners. Like the European green crab in Newfoundland waters, lionfish have known no predators on this side of the world. Story continues "Lionfish reproduce every three to four days and they'll put out 30,000 eggs or more. You can imagine how fast that population can spread," said Steve Gittings, chief scientist of National Marine Sanctuaries System for NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in the U.S. Tonia Grandy "They just eat every fish and invertebrate they can wrap their mouth around, so they can decimate not only the fish and invertebrates themselves but they can out compete other species by out eating them." In Roatan, Honduras, a place known for its spectacular scuba diving and wide variety of fish, the community is mobilized against this marine threat. Captain Buck Beasley is one of those on the front lines of the attack. He organizes boat tours for local scuba divers and tourists to spearfish lionfish. "It's become a sport, it's become an activity and there are specialty courses in it," explained Beasley. Beasley encourages everyone who takes a lionfish off the reef to eat it. He himself makes a meal out of the aquatic invader at least three times a week. CBC "It's some of the best ceviche you'll ever have baked, fried, steamed, sauteed whatever way ... they're good any way you can think of it. I mean if you want to get rid of an invasive species, make it good to eat," said Beasley. Jack Mitchell couldn't agree more. He's made a business out of serving up lionfish at his Roatan restaurant called Lionfish Louie's. "It tastes a little bit like shrimp, it's not fishy at all. In fact, people that don't normally like fish love lionfish," described Mitchell. His restaurant walls are plastered with information about lionfish and the impact they're having on Roatan's native fish populations. Mitchell said in addition to controlling the numbers by eating invasive species like lionfish and green crab, public awareness is key. "It's a shame that not more people know about it. If it was a forest fire burning everybody would be rushing to put it out. But since it's happening under the water, under the sea, nobody seems to really understand how bad it really is," he said. Jane Adey/CBC Back in Fortune Bay, Tonia Grandy is anxious to dig into creative green crab cuisine. She's even cooking up an idea for a taste testing at a restaurant on the Burin Peninsula this summer and she's in talks with the chef. "It's amazing how many people are interested and who've said, like you know, they can't wait to try it themselves," said Grandy. For now, she'll take inspiration from her new cookbook and continue the fight against green crab not only in her boat but in her kitchen too. "You're not gonna get rid of the green crab they're here. They're just gonna stay," said Grandy. "So our only option now is to find a way to utilize it." Jane Adey/CBC Read more stories from CBC Newfoundland and Labrador LONDON, May 7 (Reuters) - Britain's Prince William will be looking for revenge when he takes on his wife Kate in a new sailing event the couple are launching to raise money for charities they support. Kate is an experienced sailor who beat her husband, who is second in line to the throne, last time they went head-to-head on America's Cup yachts in Auckland, New Zealand in 2014. Now the royal couple will each skipper one of eight yachts competing for The King's Cup, a trophy first presented by William's great, great grandfather King George V in 1920. Each boat will represent one of eight charities backed by the British royals in the Land Rover sponsored regatta on August 9 in Cowes on the Isle of Wight off the south coast of England. Cowes has long-been a popular venue for sailors and royals, particularly during "Cowes Week," which dates back to 1826. The historic August regatta will this year host a new SailGP series event between six high-tech catamarans which "fly" above the water on foils at speeds approaching 90 km/hour. William and Kate, who have both championed the physical and mental benefits of sport and outdoors activities, will launch The King's Cup at the historic Cutty Sark tea clipper at London's Greenwich, Kensington Palace said. Child Bereavement UK, Centrepoint, the London Air Ambulance Charity 30th Anniversary Campaign, Tusk, Action on Addiction, Place2Be, the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, and The Royal Foundation will all be represented. "Their Royal Highnesses hope that The King's Cup will become an annual event, bringing greater awareness to the wider benefits of sport, whist also raising support and funds for the causes that The Duke and Duchess support," it added. Kate's support for sailing is well-established. She is royal patron of the 1851 Trust, which was set up by British sailor and five-time Olympic medallist Ben Ainslie to encourage young people to get into science, technology, engineering and maths through the sport. Ainslie is trying to bring the America's Cup back to Britain with his INEOS Team UK campaign to beat holders Emirates Team New Zealand in futuristic "foiling" yachts in Auckland in 2021. (Reporting by Alexander Smith; Editing by Christian Radnedge) By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Federal Aviation Administration said on Tuesday it had convened a multi-agency Technical Advisory Board to review Boeings proposed software fix on the grounded 737 MAX. The board consists of experts from the FAA, U.S. Air Force, NASA and Volpe National Transportation Systems Center that were not involved in any aspect of the Boeing 737 MAX certification. The board's recommendations will "directly inform the FAAs decision concerning the 737 MAX fleets safe return to service." The plane was grounded worldwide in mid-March after two Boeing 737 MAX crashes in October and March killed 346 people. Boeing, which has yet to formally submit the software fix to the FAA for approval, did not immediately comment Tuesday on the new review. Some in Congress have urged the FAA to conduct an independent review into the anti-stall system at the center of investigations into two deadly plane crashes before allowing the planes to resume flying. The board known as TAB will assess Boeing's proposed fix to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), the FAA said. "The TAB is charged with evaluating Boeing and FAA efforts related to Boeings software update and its integration into the 737 MAX flight control system. The TAB will identify issues where further investigation is required prior to FAA approval of the design change," the FAA said. The worlds largest planemaker, facing its worst crisis in years and the worldwide grounding of its top-selling jetliner, has said its software upgrade and associated pilot training will add layers of protection to prevent erroneous data from triggering MCAS. The system activated in the Ethiopian Airlines crash in March and also during a separate Lion Air crash in Indonesia in October. There are a number of other reviews ongoing, including a blue-ribbon committee appointed by Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao looking at the FAA's aircraft certification process. Federal prosecutors, the Transportation Departments inspector general and lawmakers are investigating the FAAs certification of the 737 MAX 8 aircraft. A separate joint review by 10 governmental air regulators started last week and is expected to last about 90 days, but the FAA has said that a decision on ungrounding the plane is not contingent on that review being completed. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Nick Zieminski) HELSINKI (Reuters) - Finland's Social Democrats said on Wednesday they would seek a center-left governing coalition with the Centre Party and three smaller partners following a parliamentary election last month. The Social Democrats (SDP) came out on top in the April 14 election for the first time in 20 yeas but with a record low 17.7 percent of the vote, forcing them to ally with other parties to form a government. SDP chairman Antti Rinne said he would work on forming a coalition with outgoing Prime Minister Juha Sipila's Centre Party as his main partner, while other partners would be the Greens, the Left Alliance and the Swedish People's Party. If Rinne secures the coalition behind a joint program, he would steer Finland a step leftward after Sipila's center-right government, which included the right-leaning National Coalition. He would also succeed in keeping the nationalist, eurosceptic Finns Party, which came second in the election at 17.5 percent, only 0.2 percent behind the SDP, out of the government despite a rapid growth in their popularity. The Finns Party made rapid gains in the polls ahead of the elections and scored first with 18.7 percent in the first post-election survey by Finland's largest daily Helsingin Sanomat on Monday. Rinne said his five-party coalition would hold 117 seats in the 200-seat parliament. "If we succeed in our government talks to draft a program that satisfies this team, it means we'll have a clear majority government emerging in Finland," he told reporters. The Centre Party came fourth in the election with 13.8 percent, a 100-year low. But Rinne, a former union boss, said he believed it would be easier to agree a joint program with the party than with the pro-austerity National Coalition. In his election campaign, Rinne promised tax hikes to preserve Finland's vast public welfare state, while the National Coalition sought to lower taxes to stimulate the economy. The National Coalition's chairman and Finland's outgoing finance minister Petteri Orpo said he understood Rinne's choice. Orpo said his party's views on "the economy, employment and fiscal policy...were decidedly far from how (Rinne) sees this ensemble," he said. But finding common ground with Sipila, who as premier wanted to cut costs and debt, is unlikely to prove easy for Rinne. Rinne said he hoped to conclude talks by May 24 and have the government nominated in the first days of June, ahead of Finland's EU presidency that begins July 1. (Reporting by Anne Kauranen; Editing by Mark Heinrich) Calgary resident Robert Leeming has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder in the deaths of Jasmine Lovett, 25, and her toddler Aliyah Sanderson, 22 months. Leeming, 34, who had lived with Lovett and her daughter in the townhouse he owns, was brought to the arrest processing unit just after 11 p.m. MT Monday. He made a brief CCTV appearance before a justice of the peace Tuesday morning. His first court appearance will be May 14. "I can tell you that this is obviously a very stressful time for him, but beyond that, the case is just so new, so fresh, that there isn't a lot that we can give you at this point in time," said Leeming's lawyer, Balfour Der. Der said they will pursue bail "if it's reasonable and can be done," but in the meantime, Leeming will be housed at the Calgary Remand Centre. "I can't speak to whether there are safety concerns," said Der. "It is something that's always on your mind for people charged with these types of offences, and we just hope that the guards at the remand centre will do their bit. The man is innocent until proven guilty and he should be treated the same as anybody else who's in there, and that means he gets protections as anybody else should get." Bodies found on Monday The charges come one day after police said they found two bodies in Kananaskis, just west of Calgary, that they believed were the mother and daughter. Calgary police had said the disappearance of Lovett and her daughter, who were last seen on April 16, was being treated as a homicide case. The bodies were found around 4 a.m. MT on Monday. "The investigation led officers to a heavily wooded area near Grizzly Creek located off Highway 40, where the bodies were discovered," Calgary Police Service said in a news release Monday. Julie Debeljak/CBC The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner completed the preliminary autopsies on Tuesday, and formally identified the two victims as Lovett and Sanderson. Story continues "The cause of death of both victims is not expected to be released," police said. The Lovett family released a statement Monday afternoon thanking police and others involved in the search. "We would also like to thank the public for their continued support which has meant a great deal to us," it said. "Our lives have been devastated and our hearts are heavy. We are trying to understand how this tragedy could have happened to our loved ones." 'Holding up OK' A friend of Lovett's mother who started a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses, said the family is "holding up OK," thanks to lots of support from friends and family. "The biggest thing for her was that they were lying in the dirt somewhere and now that they've got them, they've found them, that's just brought her an amazing amount of peace," said Dana Burrows of Lovett's mom. Burrows said any money raised in excess of funeral costs will go to a domestic violence shelter and could be also be used to start something in Lovett and her daughter's names. "It's too late for Jasmine and Aliyah now, but hopefully their names will make a difference somewhere." 'On and off' romance Early in the investigation, police said they had a suspect in custody and later released him without charge. Although they did not identify him, Leeming told reporters in late April he had been taken into custody two weeks earlier and remained a suspect. Leeming has confirmed that Lovett and Aliyah had been his tenants since October. Lovett family He also said he and Lovett had been romantically involved "on and off." Staff Sgt. Martin Schiavetta said Monday that Leeming and Lovett were in a "domestic relationship which deteriorated over a period of time." Leeming told reporters he had gone out to the Bragg Creek area, west of Calgary, for a picnic with the mother and daughter on April 17, and he last saw them the evening of April 18. Police, however, said they were last seen on the evening of April 16 at their home in the southeast Calgary neighbourhood of Cranston. Lovett's financial accounts were last active April 18, when a card was used to make an online purchase, police said. Investigators had not been able to confirm Lovett was the one who made that purchase. Her family became aware of her disappearance after she didn't show up at a family dinner. Watch the video below to see Calgary police Staff Sgt. Martin Schiavetta give an update Monday afternoon after the bodies were found. Schiavetta said on Monday it's believed Lovett and Sanderson were killed between the evening of April 16 and the morning of April 17, and their bodies transported to the Grizzly Creek area between April 17 and April 20. Police had been searching in the area of Bragg Creek, Elbow Falls, Priddis and East Kananaskis, but were hampered due to recent snowfall. "The investigative process picked up momentum over the last few days which led us to locate the bodies early this morning," Schiavetta said, adding that few details would be released as they would be crucial to trial evidence. Animal cruelty charges Last year, Leeming pleaded guilty to three animal cruelty charges after leaving his dog chained to a tree. He had left the dog there to die after telling his ex-wife he had given the animal away. Four days later, a peace officer found the dog in distress. According to divorce documents, Leeming's ex-wife called him "cruel" and, in the weeks before their separation, she worried he had been planning to kill her. Tim Propp/CBC She claims in court documents that she found a disturbing search history on Leeming's computer, including an article about chaining a dog to a tree and another one about a mother and child who died in a house fire. "It didn't leave my mind that he actually did one of those things," she wrote in an affidavit. In his own affidavit filed at the Calgary courthouse, Leeming said he had several guns, a firearms licence and about 60 knives, which he said he has been collecting since he was seven years old. He did not deny the online searches outlined in his then-wife's affidavit. Schiavetta said more than 250 tips came in from the public, and anyone who has information regarding the case or who was in the Bragg Creek area between April 17 and 21 should contact police. The charges against Leeming could be amended to first-degree murder if additional evidence is found, he said. "This investigation is not over, we will continue to gather evidence in days, weeks and months to come." Police said officers remained on the scene in Kananaskis on Tuesday, and it was not yet known when the search for additional evidence would be complete. Vets with PTSD Praise Marine's Adventures for Saving Their Lives: 'Real Therapy Happens' in Nature Marine Sean Gobin Helps Vets Overcome PTSD on Excursions When Marine Corps veteran Sean Gobin first hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2012, his goal was to decompress from combat deployments that left him a mental wreck. Gobin was shocked at how his outlook changed during the months-long journey. Here I was, enjoying a conversation, and not expecting to be shot or stabbed, he says. By trails end, Gobin had a new mission: I wanted to help other warriors walk off the war like I did. In 2013, Gobin formed a nonprofit that became Warrior Expeditions, sending 40 veterans per year on extended forays into the wild. The outings include eight trails, plus a Mississippi River kayak voyage, and a cross-country bicycle trek. Gobins group gives participants everything they need: equipment, clothing, supplies and a small monthly stipend. The expeditions take anywhere from three to six months, and offer readjustment to civilian life after a combat zone. In previous times, warriors marched home with their units, Gobin, 43, tells PEOPLE. The act of marching home took a long time. It was a way to decompress and to share that process of adjusting from the combat zone to the home front. Today, we dont have that, Gobin adds. Warriors go instantly from combat into civilization, with no time to adjust. Its overwhelming and isolating. RELATED: Meet the 70-Year-Old Grandmother Who Spent an Entire Year Cleaning up Beach Garbage Sean Gobin | Courtesy Sean Gobin Army veteran Tony Posuniak, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and saw combat, had problems soon after leaving the service in 2011. He found himself at home battling PTSD. I was struggling a lot with irritability and had distrust of people, says Posuniak, 34. Its a common phenomenon, Gobin says. After dealing with the absolute worst of humanity while you are deployed and in combat, a lot of vets struggle to interact with people, Gobin says. They lose the ability to trust. They isolate themselves and struggle with depression. The trail helps counteract that. You have all these people in trail towns and VFW posts and places along the way, and they are nice to the hikers, Gobin says. They appreciate them. They are kind. Story continues The trail angels who also include Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and ordinary citizens hold cookouts, offer items to help the vets on the trail and give them places to take a shower, wash their clothes or sleep in a real bed. It re-establishes faith in humanity, Gobin says. Sean Gobin | Courtesy Sean Gobin The trail also helps with the nitty-gritty of self-understanding. In mainstream life, everything is so fast-paced, says Gobin. Theres never any time for anyone to process what theyve gone through. The expeditions dispense time in abundance. When youre out in nature for eight to 10 hours a day for months on end, the mind comes to terms, Gobin says. The process isnt easy. At first, Posuniak was miserable on his 2018 Appalachian Trail expedition. I really frigging hated the trail, he says. I was in pain all the time. I hated it so much. I was hoping I would get injured so I would have an excuse to quit. Then he had an epiphany: I realized I was fighting myself. Posuniak felt himself changing along the rest of the trail. While hiking the trail, you learn to be present, Posuniak says. Its sort of trail talk [or] hippie talk for letting yourself experience your emotions. Its about the journey and not the end. Its about staying in the moment and seeing the beauty around you. I learned to be present, Posuniak says. The things that bothered me before dont bother me now. In January, Posuniak began school to become a nurse practitioner. He credits Gobin with the reset: He changed my life. Gobin credits the trails: The real therapy happens out in nature. Now hes shepherding the 2019 expeditions, and planning for more. He takes the work seriously. It saved my life, Gobin says. Its my moral obligation to help. For the first time in history, an Arctic Council ministerial ended today without a joint declaration capping off weeks of reports that the document was in jeopardy because of U.S. stonewalling on mentioning climate language in the final document. Instead, a one-page Joint Ministerial Statement was released. In it, the Arctic nations pledged themselves to supporting the "[}well-being of the inhabitants of the Arctic, to sustainable development and to the protection of the Arctic environment." The statement made no mention of climate change or the Paris climate accord. Over a dozen members of Arctic Indigenous organizations and various Arctic state delegations told CBC News the omission was due to U.S. objections. The Arctic Council is an intergovernmental forum run on consensus and made up of the eight northern nations, including Canada, and six Arctic Indigenous groups, known as permanent participants. On Tuesday, Finland handed the council's two-year rotating chairmanship over to Iceland. Finland's Foreign Minister Timo Soini wouldn't mention the U.S. by name when speaking to the press after the ministerial, but said negotiations went down to the wire Tuesday morning before an agreement was reached on a compromise statement, two-and-a-half hours before the plenary opened. "It is clear that climate issues (are viewed) differently from the different capitals. That cannot be denied," Soini said. "But the joint ministerial statement, it is also very important to show that the eight foreign ministers can agree on some core issues. "All the problems and disagreements can't be solved in the one ministerial, but the main thing is everybody was here ... The result could have been much worse." Freeland silent on joint declaration During her address at Tuesday's ministerial meeting, Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said nothing about the declaration upset, but stressed the importance of working with Indigenous peoples on environmental questions. Story continues "We must all draw on the wisdom and experience of the six Indigenous permanent participant organizations here today to help us build resilience to climate change to protect the North," Freeland said. She also announced increased funding of up to $10 million for the continued participation of Canadian Indigenous groups in the Arctic Council. Global Affairs Canada and the office of Canada's Foreign Minister did not respond to requests for comment on the lack of a joint declaration at the ministerial. Only Sweden's Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom, and most of the Arctic Council's six Indigenous organizations addressed the issue head-on in their speeches. 'We're in a crisis situation' Canadian Bill Erasmus is chair of the Arctic Athabaskan Council, which represents American and Canadian Athabaskan First Nations governments. He minced no words during his speech at the ministerial over the lack of a declaration. "The permanent participants usually have the opportunity to fully participate in the drafting and development of an Arctic Council declaration, where our views are fully endorsed and part of the bigger picture," Erasmus said, adding the closing statement was drafted without Indigenous participation. "(That is) not the common practice of the Arctic Council." "Our people from the North feel that the big changes that are happening are because of events outside of our territory," said Bill Erasmus, international chair of the Arctic Athabaskan Council. "People in southern Canada have to take responsibility for what is occurring." In an interview with CBC News after the meeting, Erasmus said he was "disappointed" by the outcome of the meeting. "(The statement ) doesn't go far enough and it's not from us," he said. "We're in a crisis situation. (Climate change) is real. And it's man made. And it can be prevented. "We all have responsibilities and we have to have a committed effort so young people can have a future." U.S. plays spoiler Typically a sleepy, ceremonious affair, this Arctic Council ministerial saw the U.S. play spoiler by scuttling the declaration. It also saw U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo deliver a speech that took shots at the Arctic policies of Canada, China and Russia. The U.S. has been at odds with the rest of the Arctic community over climate issues since President Donald Trump announced his country's withdrawal from the Paris climate deal in 2017, a move blasted by other Arctic Council member states and something that continues to be sticking point in bilateral meetings with Arctic Council nations. Timo Koivurova, director and research professor at the Arctic Centre at Finland's University of Lapland, said he believes in the resilience of the forum but the environmental policy of President Trump presents it with a serious challenge. "The majority of work in the Arctic Council stems either directly or indirectly from climate change, and if the U.S. doesn't even want to have references to climate change in the declaration, that's going to mean very difficult years ahead." Write to Eilis Quinn at eilis.quinn@cbc.ca WestJet Airlines CEO Ed Sims gave airplane manufacturer Boeing his vote of confidence Tuesday, pledging to be on his airline's first flight of the 737 Max once the aircraft are returned to service. "We will do all we can to provide the reassurance that these aircraft will likely be the safest narrow-bodied aircraft to ever enter service," Sims told reporters following his company's annual meeting in Calgary. "Almost certainly I and my family will be on the very first flight that's reintroduced to service. And I think it's only appropriate that as leader of this organization I should put my own personal commitment behind the safety standards of this aircraft." Safety concerns continue to hang over the 737 Max aircraft after Boeing said a safety alert sensor malfunctioned on an Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed last March and on the Lion Air crash off the coast of Indonesia in October. Canada joined other countries worldwide in grounding all Boeing 737 Max aircraft in March until further notice. WestJet fleet relies heavily on Boeing The Max 8 makes up seven per cent of WestJet's total fleet and represents 10 per cent of its total capacity in 2019. The airline has 13 of Boeing's Max 8 aircraft and has four more on order. Sims believes there's now a "critical path towards resolution of the issues around the Max," including the joint work of regulators worldwide, Boeing software enhancements and pilot training. THE CANADIAN PRESS Sims said he has confidence the new software enhancements will be a relatively seamless procedure. But he said the airline would only operate the aircraft when they're satisfied it has met WestJet safety standards in addition to the safety standards specified by Transport Canada. All of the airline's jet fleet is made up of Boeing aircraft, Sims told shareholders. But WestJet maintains a close relationship with Boeing competitor Airbus, he said, and "keeps all its options open" in terms of what its future fleet might look like. Story continues The airline is evaluating both the direct and indirect costs WestJet has incurred since the grounding of the aircraft and determining how those costs might be shared with Boeing. Sims said that might take the form of financial compensation or future credits. "I continue to believe in the standards, ethics and production values of the Boeing company," Sims told investors. The comments came as the company also released its first-quarter earnings. 1st quarter profit up 30% On Tuesday, WestJet announced that it topped expectations as it reported its first-quarter profit climbed more than 30 per cent compared with a year ago. The airline said it earned $45.6 million or 40 cents per diluted share for the quarter ended March 31 compared with a profit of $34.2 million or 30 cents per diluted share a year ago. Revenue totalled $1.26 billion, up from $1.19 billion in the same quarter last year. Analysts on average had expected a profit of 30 cents per share and revenue of $1.28 billion, according to Thomson Reuters Eikon. The increased earnings came as WestJet saw both its capacity, measured by available seat miles, and its traffic, measured by revenue passenger miles, climb by 5.3 per cent compared with a year ago. WestJet's load factor, a measure of how full its aircraft were, held steady at 84.8 per cent in the quarter. Analyst Doug Taylor of Canaccord Genuity called the results "mixed," noting solid profits, but "slightly disappointing" revenue per available seat mile (RASM), a key performance measure. Quinn Nystrom was expecting the worst. She thought the U.S. Border Patrol would want to search her car. That she would be bombarded with questions. That they would demand she show her prescription for insulin. Worst of all, she was worried they would confiscate the small, cold vials of a life-saving drug that she had crossed the border to buy at a pharmacy in Fort Frances, Ont. But it didn't happen. Not for Nystrom, not for anyone in her small group from Minnesota calling themselves the Caravan to Canada who were on a mission last weekend to buy insulin at one-tenth the price of what it's listed in the United States. As the cost of insulin continues to skyrocket in the U.S., where pharmaceutical companies can dictate the price, people are making the trek north as an alternative to paying thousands of dollars to stay alive. Submitted by Lija Greenseid Insulin and many other drugs cost less in Canada, thanks to the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board, a federal agency that establishes the maximum price that can be charged for patented drugs. So while an influx of Americans crossing the border to buy insulin won't affect the price, it could hurt supply in Canada. "There absolutely is some degree of risk," said Barry Power, director of therapeutic content with the Canadian Pharmacists Association. "If you look at the disparity in the populations, a small percentage of Americans coming to Canada is a disproportionate increase for services and supplies that are earmarked for Canada." Rachel Nystrom For Americans, it's hardly a long-term solution. For some, it's the only option. And for others, it's already too late. Nicole Smith-Holt, also from Minnesota, joined last weekend's Caravan to Canada. Her son, Alec Smith, died in June 2017 from diabetes complications. She said he had been rationing his insulin when he couldn't afford to buy more. "Mine was a symbolic fight, and going to see how easy and accessible and affordable it is at a pharmacy in Canada," she said. "If I had known about this in 2017, I would have made that trip in 2017 and been able to save his life." Story continues 'Desperate measures' Nystrom, who has Type 1 diabetes, requires insulin to stay alive. She is on a type of fast-acting insulin called NovoLog, which costs about $300 US a vial. The Canadian equivalent, NovoRapid, is about $30 per vial. She was shocked to learn about the price difference. "I almost felt walking out of that pharmacy like I was robbing the pharmacy. I just couldn't believe it," she said. But border towns across Canada have seen Americans coming to buy medication for years. Submitted by Nicole Smith-Holt The Guardian Johnson Drug Store in Perth-Andover, N.B., sits just shy of seven kilometres east of the U.S. border. Pharmacist Jill MacIntosh said the store has about 10 patients who come regularly from the U.S. "We see probably at least one person a week," she said. Dr. Seema Nagpal, vice-president of science and policy with Diabetes Canada, said her organization is paying attention to the cross-border traffic and potential insulin shortfalls. "We try to keep our ear to the ground and hear as early as we can if that is becoming a problem, but we just haven't heard that yet." Nagpal said there are major health risks for people who can't afford to pay for their insulin. "When a person doesn't have access to treatment that they need in order to sustain their life and to have a future, absolutely I understand there would be desperate measures in order to maintain their health," she said. But she said Canadians also struggle to pay for their insulin. "Many people are forced to make choices about whether they pay rent, whether they put certain foods on the table versus filling their prescriptions," she said, adding Diabetes Canada hears about insulin rationing in Canada, as well. Quinn Nystrom How long a vial of insulin lasts depends on how much a person takes. It could be anywhere from a week to a month. Right now, insulin isn't available as a generic drug in the U.S., because pharmaceutical companies have made small improvements to insulin over the years to keep it under patent. Nystrom has health insurance in Minnesota through the Affordable Care Act. But she's on what she calls a high-deductible plan: She pays $370 US a month for the plan itself, but has to pay a $7,800 US deductible before her plan will cover her insulin. But not everyone in the U.S. has insurance, or is able to get it. Smith-Holt said before her son died, he had just turned 26, which meant he was no longer eligible to stay on her insurance plan as of June 1, 2017. On June 22, he went to the pharmacy to get more insulin. He was told it would cost $1,300 US. His body was found June 27. "We are assuming he was hoping that what he had left he could stretch until payday," Smith-Holt said. "He was just three days short of that payday when he passed away." High cost of insurance While there are programs that exist for people over 65 or low-income families, the only other options in the U.S. are coverage through work or to buy it out of pocket. Lija Greenseid, who organized the Caravan to Canada, lives in St. Paul, Minn. Her 13-year-old daughter has Type 1 diabetes and she and her husband buy insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Last year, she said they spent $13,000 US just to obtain health insurance and then $14,000 US out of pocket before her daughter's insulin was covered. "It's a huge amount of money for us. Because of that, we didn't put any money into our kids' college savings accounts or put anything into retirement for the year. We really just had to pay our health-care bills," Greenseid said. "So now you can see why we do crazy things like go across the border and buy insulin." Reed Saxon/The Associated Press Their fears around crossing the border come from confusion and uncertainty about what's allowed to be brought back into the U.S. The U.S. Border Patrol declined to answer questions directly and referred CBC News to its website and to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The Border Patrol website says Americans travelling with prescription medication should have it in its original containers, have a copy of the prescription on hand and carry only personal-use quantities, which is a 90-day supply. It was unclear whether the same rules apply to medication bought outside the country. The FDA did not reply by deadline for this story. Len Saunders, an immigration lawyer in Blaine, Wash., on the border with Surrey, B.C., said he's never seen issues with bringing back medication as long as it's not a controlled substance. "I don't think Americans care about people bringing insulin back to the U.S.," he said. 'They're a national embarrassment' But crossing the border isn't an option for everyone. "I don't think it's a long-term solution. And I also think it's sort of a cop-out for the U.S. government," Nystrom said. "They want to say what a sophisticated country they are, how advanced they are, how they're one of the wealthiest countries in the world, and to me they're a national embarrassment and they are not taking care of their citizens." In February, the American Pharmacists Association and the Canadian Pharmacists Association issued a joint statement warning that drug importation policies could put patients at risk. Power, with the Canadian association, said they wanted to highlight that crossing the border to get "cheaper drugs" from Canada is not a solution to problems in the U.S. "They need to work on addressing the root causes that are causing the price disparities and making Americans take extreme measures to go outside the country to get their medication," he said. Submitted by Quinn Nystrom Dr. LaShawn McIver agrees. The senior vice-president of government affairs and advocacy with the American Diabetes Association said 39 per cent of Americans saw the cost of their insulin increase in the last year. "If people are travelling to other countries because they can't afford their insulin, then that's a problem," said McIver. She said the U.S. federal health agency is looking at importing lower-cost drugs from other countries. But the American Diabetes Association wants to see changes at home so that insulin is more affordable. She said the association is working with Congress to find solutions, and is calling for price transparency laws. Elaine Thompson/The Associated Press While everyone agrees crossing the border isn't a sustainable option, it's likely to continue. Nystrom said she knows of a group from Michigan that drove up to Canada on Thursday. She's planning another trip in June. Greenseid wants to rally state politicians in Minnesota to sponsor a bus to bring people to Canada to buy insulin. "As a mom, I do this lovingly for my child, but I really want to work for change so that it's easier for her when she gets older," Greenseid said. "Because it's just too expensive." READ MORE Photo credit: Photograph by Heather Hazzan From Town & Country In the 19 years since Melinda Gates and her husband, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, launched the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, their work has helped steer more than $45 billion to causes ranging from maternal health to agricultural development to education, in the United States and more than 130 other countries. In the process the Gateses have become some of the worlds most recognized and powerful philanthropists, setting the standard for thoughtful and impactful giving. This year Melinda-who, in addition to her philanthropic work, is the founder of the investment and incubation company Pivotal Ventures-became an author; her book The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World was released in April. Here, she talks to John Legend, the entertainer and activist, about giving, her family, and her plans to change the world. John Legend: Ive been an admirer of your foundation for a long time and the work that you all do. What made you want to write this book? Melinda Gates: Ive been thinking about doing a book for years. Ive met incredible women in my travels through the foundation, and they have inspired me, so I decided to write the book because I thought their stories could also inspire others. And I felt that this is the right time. I want to make sure this window of opportunity that has been created around the world with #MeToo doesnt close. JL: Are there examples that America should follow when it comes to empowering women? MG: The United States is the only industrialized nation that doesnt have a paid family medical leave policy. And yet women have gone into the workforce in droves. So when I look at paid family medical leave in almost any country that has put it in place, I know we need to do that-we need to do it soon, and with finesse, at the federal and state levels. I also look at countries like Norway, which has a female prime minister, or I look at Angela Merkel, and I think, Wow, women have really come a long way in those countries. I think its time we had equal representation of women in Congress in the United States. And its time, at some point, that we have a woman as the leader of the country. But if we stay on this trajectory its going to take us 60 years to have equality in Congress-and I dont want to wait 60 years. Story continues Photo credit: Ted S. Warren JL: You talk about optimism quite a bit. I consider myself an optimist as well. But youve also seen a lot of pain. What makes you optimistic? MG: I would say Im a realistic optimist. I see a lot of pain and struggle, and I try to take that in and not shut it away and say, That didnt happen. You have to take in the heartbreak, work through it, and metabolize it-and then use it to create action in the world. Im an optimist because I can see where the world has been and where it has come to. Childhood deaths have been cut in half since 1990, so the world is getting better. Its a better time in the world to be a woman than it has ever been-yet its not getting better fast enough. JL: You often point out the ways the world is improving, and Im always impressed by that. So often, if we watch the news, we can get bogged down in negativity. But there are a lot of stories that show that when people come together and have the will to do something, we can actually get things done. MG: I think we get caught up in the news because, lets be honest, the headlines are there to incite fear. We know fear is a strong human response, so we are drawn to those negative stories. But our job is to stand back from it and have a full perspective of the good things and the not-good things going on in society. Ages ago I came across a quote that I just loved, which was, Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, its the only thing that ever has. It was a quote by Margaret Mead. And that is ultimately what changes society, a group coming together and saying, We want something different. Photo credit: In-House Photographer JL: Lets talk about the work your foundation has done. How do you think about where you put your resources? MG: Bill and I start with our values and our beliefs, and our belief is that all lives, no matter where theyre lived, have equal value. And if you start with that belief, then you start to say, Okay, where is that not true in the world, and what is it that a foundation can do? And you keep that in mind, and then you start to make investments. Really, philanthropy is very small. Sometimes people look at our foundation and say, My gosh, the resources are so large, but not in comparison to the issues were trying to tackle. JL: What are some of the issues youve been focusing on? MG: The research dollars that we spend in the United States are primarily focused on the education system, because we feel that if kids can get a great education, they can go on to live out their talents in the world. Weve been really focused on how to get a great teacher in front of the classroom for every single kid, and how to make sure youre dealing with their social and emotional issues and what might be going on in their communities. JL: Lets talk about the health sector and what youre doing in developing countries. MG: Outside the U.S. our primary area of focus is global health. We do that because Bill and I both see that if you cant grow up with decent health, you cant go on to get a great education. We focus quite a bit on childhood vaccines; were very focused on getting the right vaccines out with the right strains for different countries in Africa. When we got into this work, there was a 25-year lag between when a vaccine came out in the United States or Europe and when it got out in, say, Kenya or Tanzania. Weve brought the lag down to less than 18 months. JL: Youve seen how vaccines have worked around the world. How does it make you feel when you see the anti-vax movement in the U.S.? MG: It makes me sad for the child in the United States whose parents arent getting him or her a vaccine, because they are exposing their child to a potentially lethal disease like measles. It also makes me frustrated as a global health advocate. I meet with mothers in the developing world, who walk 15 kilometers in the heat with a child at their side and a baby on their back or in their belly, because they know the difference a vaccine makes. Yet we have educated men and women in the United States who dont believe in vaccines. I just want to say sometimes, Are you kidding me? JL: There are some people in the world with the view that theres too much concentration of wealth in the hands of too few. What do you think about when you see the gap between the haves and the have-nots in the U.S.? MG: It shouldnt be. I think we need a society where equality is more equal, and wealth is more equal. Bill and I have been very outspoken that we think we need a more progressive tax system that taxes the wealthy more than middle-class people, and middle-class people more than low-income people. We should not have this kind of inequality in one of the worlds wealthiest countries. JL: How many kids do you guys have? MG: We have three: daughter, son, daughter. Theyre 22, 19, and 16. How old are yours? JL: Mine are so young. My daughter will be three in a couple of weeks, and my son will be one in May. We think a lot about how to raise them-even though theyre surrounded by privilege-to be grounded, responsible, and kind. How do you instill those values in your kids? MG: You start really young. You have to do it in very light ways when theyre younglike, when youre driving down the street, point out things that are different when you go through different neighborhoods. Get the kids questioning why somebody would be homeless in a city like ours when we have a nice house. And then take them out in the community, take them out in neighborhoods that dont look like where theyre growing up, and have them be in connection with people in those neighborhoods. I remember taking both of our older kids, when they were young, out in Seattle. It was Christmastime, and their school was hosting this event to make boxes for the homeless, so that when they come into a shelter they get a box of toiletries. We were helping: We folded the boxes, and we put a piece of soap in there, we put a razor in and a washcloth, and I was feeling good about it. Then, as we were walking out of the community center where we made these boxes, Im holding my two kids hands, and I said, Isnt that great-we made these boxes for the homeless. And one of my kids said, But Mommy, dont they need homes? Photo credit: Hearst JL: Do you feel there are areas where you made mistakes that you regret now or that have helped inform how youve gone forward? MG: We are absolutely a learning foundation, and I hope we always will be. When youre pushing the frontiers of an area or youre pushing science, you have to be willing to fail and keep learning from each of those failures. Learn that we dont always know the right tactics when we start, and that you have to listen a lot and be able to try some things and realize theyre not all going to work. Then you back up and try other things. JL: How involved do you get in politics? There are lines around what can be philanthropy and what can be advocacy. Whats your strategy? MG: Bill and I personally arent big political donors. We dont believe in that. What we are and what we do at the foundation is advocate. So we absolutely go into governments, and the biggest thing we advocate for is foreign aid dollars, because we know that when those are spent well, you build infrastructure in countries, and the health starts to improve for people. Then they can start to get a good education and start to participate in their own economy. And when you get that wheel working, of health, education, economy, then countries start to grow from low income to middle income to high income. JL: How do you make sure you integrate the opinions and leadership from these developing countries in the decision-making? MG: Thats incredibly important in philanthropy. You have to take the cultural context into account. We try to work with partners who have been on the ground in these countries, who have built the trust of the community already and will help us hear the voices of the community. I learned this from Jimmy Carter when he came and visited our foundation. I said, President Carter, what is it that youve learned in global health that we should know now so we dont have to make the mistake? And he said, Melinda, anything you do has to be owned by the local people. And when its owned by them, and their voices are heard and they truly believe in it, then they will truly take it up. And when you leave, the program will still exist. And he was absolutely right. JL: Speaking of Jimmy Carter, do you have any other philanthropic role models? MG: We were incredibly lucky to meet Nelson Mandela several times. I think he continues to be this shining example of forgiveness, of how you take something horrific-like what happened in South Africa-and figure out how to help your country forgive and move forward. Thats an unbelievable form of leadership. I often think about how much he had to keep goodness in his heart, despite all those horrible things happening around him. You have to keep touching those places of goodness to know how to act in the world. Photos by Heather Hazzan; Styled By Alison Edmond Photo credit: Town & Country Magazine This story appears in the Summer 2019 issue of Town & Country. Subscribe Now ('You Might Also Like',) Photo credit: Gillian Laub From Town & Country Photo credit: Gillian Laub Its reasonable to wonder, amid our degrading civic discourse, whether Twitter is anything more than a toxic pool full of trolls. If you follow Ava DuVernay, who is as fearless in 280 characters as she is in person, its also reasonable to believe the social media platform can be a catalyst for positive change. The 46-year-old filmmaker has tweeted 40,000 times toas she does in her filmsdecry injustice, amplify the voices of underrepresented members of society, and incite activism. In using her voice to raise awareness and funds for issues dear to her, she has also raised her profile, amassing more than 2 million followers, likely the most of any female or African-American director. DuVernay has another reason to believe in Twitters power to connect: her devastatingly powerful new project, the Netflix limited series When They See Us, which was born out of an unexpected tweet. Photo credit: GILLIAN LAUB Four years ago, tucked amid the likes and attagirls in her feed, DuVernay found a tweet directed at her that read: whats your next film gonna be on? #thecentralparkfive #cp5 #centralpark5 maybe???? #wishfulthinking #fingerscrossed. The Hail Marylike missive came from Raymond Santana Jr., who had been one of the five New York City teens falsely accused in 1989 and convicted in the Central Park Jogger case. DuVernay knew the story, perhaps the most widely publicized and racially charged case of the 1980s: black and Latino teens from Harlem strong-armed by the police into giving false confessions, found guilty despite major inconsistencies in the prosecutions case and a lack of any physical evidence or witnesses, and demonized in media coverage that made the case a national story. She messaged Santana to suggest they meet for dinner. As she says with a sly chuckle, I slipped into his DMs. Once I got to the restaurant, I talked to her like to the brothers, Santana says, referring to the other members of the so-called Central Park Five. DuVernay then met them one by one: Yusef Salaam, Kevin Richardson, Korey Wise, and Antron McCray. As a teen DuVernay had been captivated by their case. Growing up in the Compton neighborhood of Los Angeles, she was acutely aware of racial bias; she remembers heavily armed cops swarming into her back yard and tackling her father while he watered the lawn, as they ostensibly searched for a fugitive. Story continues Photo credit: Micaiah Carter/Netflix And yet despite her many accomplishments, when it came to telling this story, DuVernay says, it wasnt just like I chose them. They had to decide if I was the right person. Santana had no doubts. He reached out after seeing Selma, DuVernays drama about the 1965 march for voting rights, the first film directed by an African-American woman ever nominated for a Best Picture Oscar. It showed me that she wasnt afraid to tell the truth and she took her craft very seriously, Santana recalls. I said, This is the person we need. DuVernay brought many other bona fides to the tableincluding the then-in-progress 13th, her 2016 documentary about systemic racism in the criminal justice system from slavery to the present day. Neither Santana nor the other members of the Five knew that their case figured prominently in the film. DuVernay changed the title of the four-part Netflix series from Central Park Five to When They See Us, because it is, she says, also about millions of young people of color who are blamed, judged, accused on sight. Often when you hear criminal, theyre dehumanized, she says. What we try to do in the series is show that these are living, breathing people with thoughts, memories, feelings, families. Photo credit: Jim Estrin/New York Times No one got an opportunity to really investigate who we are, Salaam says. It was easy for the system to become what I call the spiked wheels of justice and just mow us down. McCray says, The things they did to me in the interrogation room They did terrible things. I lost my religion; I stopped believing in God. I thought, How could the police get up on the stand, put their hands on the Bible, and lie? I knew the truth would come out someday. I just thought I wouldnt be alive to see it. Thirty years after the arrests, When They See Us illustrates how much and how little has changed. Inherent bias. Police misconduct. Prosecutorial overreach. Politicians whose demands for justice reverberate as racist dog whistles. Its telling that spotlight-grabbing public figures from that time have since gained in prominence. Consider the full-page ad in the major newspapers that called for the death penalty for the Five (who were just 14 to 16 years old when they were arrested) taken out by a real estate tycoon who would later ride race-baiting rhetoric to the White House. The story of a group of black and Latino boys raping and beating a white woman investment banker into a coma stoked the citys simmering racial tensions. It was a type of blood lustan angry mob. The assumption of guilt happened almost instantaneously, says Natalie Byfield, a reporter covering the case for the New York Daily News and author of Savage Portrayals: Race, Media and the Central Park Jogger Story. Her research found that fewer than 5 percent of the stories in the aftermath of the joggers attack used the term alleged in reference to the Fives purported role. Photo credit: Atsushi Nishijima/Netflix The Five, who were picked up as part of a large group of teenagers engaging in various degrees of mischief in Central Park that night, were labeled a wolfpack and super-predators and called far worse by the crowds at their trials. As you walked into the courtroom, people were screaming and jeering. It was just terrifying, recalls lawyer Barry Scheck, co-founder of the Innocence Project, who advised one of the defense attorneys in 1990 and served as a legal liaison in the reinvestigation that led to the convictions being vacated in 2002. I was deeply troubled by the whole case, Scheck says. The evidence had a lot of problems and contradictions. When a convicted murderer and rapist named Matias Reyes later confessed to the attack, and DNA evidence confirmed that he had been the lone rapist, it didnt surprise us at all, Scheck says. Id like to believe its less likely and there is less of an excuse for it happening again, he adds. But of course this can happen again. All of them were picked up off the street that day for just being boysboys will be boys, DuVernay says. Just like Brett Kavanaugh, just like all the white boys or the women reading this magazine who go on spring break and do all kinds of things and are never considered a wolfpack or a gang, never given the full brunt of the criminal justice system. The hope is that people can watch this story and consider the evils of that system. The film is designed to inspire conversation and change. By the time the Five were exonerateddespite opposition by the police and prosecutors involved in the casethey had already served their full sentences. Together they filed a civil suit against New York City for malicious prosecution, racial discrimination, and emotional distress. Finally, in 2014, they received a $41 million settlement, though the city did not admit to any wrongdoing. I dont feel vindicated, no, Richardson says. Theres no amount of money that will equal what we endured in prison. We have these scars that nobody sees. I cried and cried when I found out, McCray says of learning about his exoneration. I cried for what Id lost. My father died never knowing that the truth came out. Korey said, This is life after death, Salaam says. Wise, who was 16 when arrested, was convicted as an adult and served nearly 14 years at various prisons in New York state. DuVernay decided to devote the seriess final episode to his experience. One of the things that really struck me was when Korey said to me, There is no Central Park Five. It was four plus one. And no one has told that story, she says. I think its important for people to understand the depths of what it means to be incarcerated in adult prisons in this country. The victim of horrific beatings, Wise carries with him trauma that the others acknowledge is on a different level. Im just a shadow, he says. Im very empty46 years old and empty. At the same time, Im talking to the kid in me: I got you, baby boy. Nobody can take your story from you. Seeing that story onscreen was surreal for the four assembled members of the Five (McCray, whose mother had just died, was in Atlanta). At the end, DuVernay says, getting their blessing and approval was one of my biggest career achievements. And Ive had some pretty good ones. She says she generally refuses to cry at her own work, yet when I got to the end of episode four, I cried like a baby. The cumulative emotion broke me down in a way that was unlike anything Ive done, she says. It was just profoundly moving for me, personally, that these men allowed me to tell their story, and deeply resonant for me as a citizen of this country that this is something we allowed to happen. And its not just happening to them, its happening to so many people. Photo at top: Tiffany & Co. earrings ($2,800); trench coat, her own. Hair by Dr. Kari Williams for Ava DuVernay at Mahogany Hair Revolution. Makeup by Ernesto Casillas for Nars at the Only Agency. Production services provided by Viewfinders. Photograph by Gillian Laub; Styled by Jason Bolden Photo credit: Jillian Laub This story appears in the Summer 2019 issue of Town & Country. SUBSCRIBE NOW You Might Also Like Woody Allen is not Harvey Weinstein, but he is sometimes treated almost as if he were. Weinstein, the prominent film producer, was arrested in May 2018 and charged with raping a woman in a Manhattan hotel room in 2013 and forcing a sex act on a different victim in 2006. He is awaiting a September trial under a $1 million bond. At least 80 women have made allegations of sexual misconduct against Weinstein. He was the spark for the #MeToo movement, which has emboldened many other women to come forward with distressing stories of sexual violence, harassment and abuse. Allen, on the other hand, has not been charged with a crime. But prominent actors have expressed regret for appearing in his movies in the past and vowed never to work with him again. In June 2018 Amazon cancelled a four-movie, $68 million deal with Allen because, Amazon said, of supervening events, including renewed allegations against Mr. Allen, his own controversial comments, and the increasing refusal of top talent to work with or be associated with him... And last week The New York Times reported that at least four major publishing houses have taken a pass on a full-manuscript memoir by Allen because of the negative publicity that working with Allen may have generated. Some publishing executives reportedly used the word toxic when describing the challenges of working with Allen in the current environment. Again, Allen is not Weinstein, but in a way that is different from the way in which former-senator Al Franken is not Kevin Spacey. Franken and Spacey both deserve the attention of the #MeToo movement, which has correctly called out bad behavior (Franken) and very, very bad behavior (Spacey) by powerful men who have exploited their access to young people with much less power. But in some respects, the allegation against Allen falls outside of the parameters of the #MeToo movement altogether and is much worse than anything Spacey or Weinstein was charged with. It involves a child. Allen was accused of molesting, in 1992, his 7-year-old adoptive daughter, Dylan Farrow. Its hard to imagine acts more despicable. However, the circumstances surrounding the incident are in considerable dispute. Their complexity precludes a thorough discussion here beyond these bare facts: At the time of the allegation, Allen and Mia Farrow were involved in an acrimonious divorce. Farrow accused Allen of molesting Dylan. An investigation of the allegation conducted by the Yale-New Haven Hospital concluded: It is our expert opinion that Dylan was not sexually abused by Mr. Allen. The state of Connecticut declined to press charges. On the other hand, Dylan Farrow has been unswerving in her allegation that Allen molested her, and she credibly argued her case in a December 2017 Los Angeles Times article entitled Why has the #MeToo revolution spared Woody Allen? I decline to take a position on Allens guilt or innocence. Contrary to Attorney General William Barrs fuzzy thinking about the law, the failure to file charges against Allen does not constitute exoneration. Nevertheless, its worth remembering that Allen is a tempting target for many people for reasons having little to do with the allegation. Some people just dont like his movies. Fair enough. But I suspect that much of the antipathy for Allen stems from his romance with Mia Farrows adopted daughter Soon-Yi Previn. Allen was 56 when it began and Soon-Yi was about 22. Some people find such a tryst tacky and tasteless. Their point is well taken. But this is how Allen put it: The heart wants what it wants. Theres no logic to these things. You meet someone and you fall in love and thats that. Allen and Soon-Yi have maintained a conventional and apparently happy marriage for almost 22 years. So the Soon-Yi issue should have no bearing on this case. But the presumption of innocence and the right to privacy should. And we should be careful to ensure that the very necessary and worthy #MeToo movement exercises the wisdom and judgment to discriminate between the deeply guilty and the merely accused. John M. Crisp lives in Georgetown, Texas, and can be reached at jcrispcolumns@gmail.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 When it comes to trade with China, it often seems that Donald Trump is his own worst enemy. Unilaterally raising tariffs, as Trump is threatening, is akin to punishing U.S. consumers for Chinas misbehavior. Most economists view lower tariffs as a win for the U.S. economy, even if China doesnt reciprocate. Of course, they say, the world economy would be even stronger if tariffs were lowered across the board. There are a handful of economists, however, who disagree and they can be split into two basic schools of thought, one of which might provide some hint of a method to Trumps madness. Call the first the neo-mercantilist school. Neo-mercantilists, such as Trump advisor Peter Navarro, see the U.S.s trade deficit with China as inherently bad. Since imports subtract from GDP while exports add to it, Navarro argues, the U.S. economy would be stronger if it imported less and exported more. But the strength of the U.S. economy, mainstream economists point out, is ultimately determined by the productive capacity of its workers and businesses. Limiting imports simply raises prices for U.S. consumers and business. Those higher prices lead to less consumer spending and less investment, neutralizing any GDP gains and leaving U.S. consumers worse off. The other school of thought, call it bilateralist, offers a far more nuanced take. Bilateralists, such as John Nye of George Mason University, have a complex and detailed critique of standard free-trade thinking. One key insight, however, is that nations are best viewed not as single unified entities, but as a collection of special interests. Those special interests can put pressure on politicians that sabotage efforts to increase trade. The goal of trade talks, according to this school, is for each side to agree to give up its particular special interests in exchange for its partners giving up theirs. Multilateral trade negotiations, such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership, often do the exact opposite: Each countrys special interests invariably have veto power over the entire agreement. Consequently, multilateral trade agreements tend to be shot through with exceptions that undercut free trade. Nye points to the European Union as an example of such an arrangement. This pattern of free trade for thee, but not for me is repeated through successive rounds of trade negotiations. The result is that all the increased competition from free trade falls on the least favored sectors of the economy, while all of the protection is concentrated in the most favored sectors. Bilateral negotiations disrupt this pattern. Negotiators can use talks as a source of external pressure to break the power of internal special interests. In theory, this means that the short-term damage caused by Trumps trade negotiations could actually be a source of strength: By exposing the U.S. economy to the costs of trade restrictions, the president is increasing the consensus around free trade and decreasing the relative power of protectionist special interests. Indeed, polling has shown that Americans faith in the benefits of trade is at an all-time high. Again, bilaterialist theory is quite complex, and Im not arguing that Trump is putting it into practice. When I asked Nye whether he believed that Trump was acting according to his theory, he demurred. Probably not, Nye said. But Trump might have a businessmans instinct that something is not quite right here, he said. The ultimate question is whether Trumps approach will replace the status quo in trade agreements with something better. On that, Nye confessed, he had no idea. Unfortunately, for the U.S. economy and global markets, neither does anyone else. Karl W. Smith is a former assistant professor of economics at the University of North Carolinas school of government and founder of the blog Modeled Behavior. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 MADISON, Wis. Aaron Kennedy is an entrepreneur with national credentials. He was founder and chief executive officer for Noodles & Company, led Colorados successful branding and marketing campaign, managed product rollouts for major firms and continues to advise emerging companies through some of the nations leading accelerators. Now, perhaps somewhat to his surprise, UW-Madison graduate Kennedy is the Entrepreneur-in-Residence at UW-Green Bay. The late April announcement that Kennedy will join the effort to put Green Bay on the map for startups and scale-ups is the latest example of how the Upper Midwest is making a collective case for being a place where innovation is valued, talent is available and companies with the ideas can grow. Not that anyone is hanging Vacancy signs in tech hubs such as Californias Silicon Valley, Boston or North Carolinas Research Triangle, which continue to flourish, but there are reasons for investors, entrepreneurs and others to tap the rise in activity across the Upper Midwest. My name for the region that includes Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison and spurs north and west is the I-Q Corridor. The I stands for the interstate highways that bind them, but also innovation, intellectual property and investment. The Q suggests quality of workforce, research, education and life in general, the latter being a quality more familiar tech hubs are sometimes lacking. Green Bay is staking its spot on the I-Q Corridor thanks to an alliance that includes the Green Bay Packers, Microsoft, UW-Green Bay and others who have combined to create TitletownTech, which aims to bring world-class digital innovation and expertise to the region. It is headquartered in Titletown, the development west of Green Bays Lambeau Field, in a building that houses an innovation lab, venture studio, fund managers and others who can help to build young companies. Kennedys role over his four-year commitment to the UW-Green Bay is to work across academic and business lines to advise those companies, spot opportunities and to generally think big about what Green Bay can offer to investors and entrepreneurs. Unofficially, what he brings are connections and credibility, which can help draw attention to Green Bay and the larger region. That attention may come from people who wouldnt automatically stop to think about what the Upper Midwest offers. Those assets include reasonable deal valuations for angel and venture capitalists; well-trained talent through some of the nations best universities, colleges and technical schools; lower business costs overall; federal laboratories; a central location for distribution; and a strong work ethic. The I-Q Corridor also features a range of tech sectors in its portfolio, from software to life sciences, and from next-generation agriculture to advanced manufacturing. Investors have been increasingly drawn to that mix, based on recent deal data. States near Wisconsin have helped to launch large funds of funds to invest in the most promising deals and to attract even more outside dollars. The latest example is the $250-million Next Level Fund in Indiana. The growing effort to make the Upper Midwest an attractive alternative to the coasts is a theme of the upcoming Wisconsin Entrepreneurs Conference, to be held June 4-5 at Venue42 in the Milwaukee Brewing Co. Investors, entrepreneurs and tech leaders from across the region will gather to talk about the I-Q Corridors assets and its challenges. One glaring challenge is perception, which for some people is still trapped in Rustbelt imagery. Kennedy talked about Colorados once-fragmented brand when he spoke in November 2018 at a Tech Council conference in Madison, offering advice that could apply to Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest. Your brand cant be something you are not. A unified brand or message is powerful and memorable, Kennedy said at the time. About 500 miles separate Californias tech hubs in San Diego and San Francisco. The distance between Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul is a little more than 400 miles, much of it in Wisconsin. Linking Upper Midwest hubs along the I-Q Corridor around a common message could help each compete on a larger stage. Tom Still is president of the Wisconsin Technology Council. He can be reached at tstill@wisconsintechnologycouncil.com. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Political correctness is one of the hot issues of the day (for quite some timeactually). For those of you who are not familiar with the term, this is how Britannica dictionary defines it: Political correctness (PC), term used to refer to language that seems intended to give the least amount of offense, especially when describing groups identified by external markers such as race, gender, culture, or sexual orientation. So it is pretty much a way of using our speech in a careful way so as not to unnecessarily offend any people group identified by certain group markers. A fairly straight forward example would be making jokes about other skin colours and ethnicities other than your own ethnic group. You know, it would be pretty awkward for me to make jokes about Polynesian people when I am an ethnic Korean, but it would be socially acceptable if I was to make jokes about North Korea. Should Christians be politically correct? Answer: Yes and No. Yes, because the bible tells us so. The bible gives us no room for total freedom of speech when it comes to using our tongue. Here are just few examples: Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear (Ephesians chapter 4, verse 29) Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person (Colossians chapter 4, verse 6) If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this persons religion is worthless (James chapter 1, verse 26) So, it is pretty clear, we dont have total freedom in what we say. By default, we should think before we speak; will this edify this person, is this wise, could this possibly be something out of ignorance or judgment? We have to always pray and bridle our tongue under the rule of the spirit. No, because some people can take politically correctness to a point where it becomes ridiculous. I remember this story, where a person has reported to the police about a robbery they have witnessed across the street. The police asked the witness for details of the suspect by asking few questions; Sir, was the suspect Caucasian, black or Hispanic?. The man refused to reply because he felt like he should never identify a person by the colour of their skin since that would be politically incorrect. With all these numerous genders nowadays, some members of the society expect us to call them by weird made up pronouns such as Ze, Zir, rather than the traditional he and she. This is because they dont identify as either male or female but something else. I mean it only takes a common sense to realize that this is not what the bible means when we are to take care of how we are to use our tongues. Religious correctness inter-religion and intra-religion The same overarching rule applies to both engagements, love thy neighbour. When engaging in a dialogue with people of different religion we should try to be respectful and loving without compromising the gospel. We should not belittle their religion or their attempts to seek truth in life. Being graceful in our speech will make it so much easier for people to listen to us in spite of the disagreements that pop up here and there. It surely can be done in a constructive and edifying manner. But of course, never say things like Oh but what I believe, it is just for me. Express clearly that you disagree and give them the reasons why, after all,arent we commanded to do so? always being prepared to make a defence to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect(1 Peter chapter 3, verse 15) When talking to our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, we also should be loving without forfeiting the meaningful dialogues. As a person who adheres to Reformed theology, I would be in a lot of disagreements with my Methodist and Pentecostal brothers. I mean it can happen, there are some huge differences in theology amongst the traditional mainline denominations! However, keeping in mind that they are one body with me, and that there is one spirit amongst us, that they are also of the same fold, we can practice and learn to engage in constructive dialogues to discuss our differences. Not necessarily to change and convert them to your camp, but to have clarity of the others position so that we dont end up caricaturing the other side and judging them out of misunderstanding. Agree to disagree, and when you dont agree, be gracious and try not to take offense at your brother and sister. I pray that such love would overwhelm and prevail in our engagements, whether they are Christians or non-Christians. Richard Kwon is from Auckland, a regular lay person who just loves he Lord. Photo - IT experts at One Day in Melbourne 2018 The 4th One Day in Melbourne for missions communications personnel this year under fresh leadership will be held at Craigieburn Salvation Army on Saturday 10 August. After three years of establishing One Day in Melbourne Rev Bob Thomas editor of New Life and Dr Mark Tronson of Press Service International - the first three One Day in Melbourne highly recognized for its specialised input. 2016 the speakers included Sheeleagh Wegman the editor of the Tasmanian Anglican, Sophia Sinclair chief editor of PSI, David Goodwin on Design, Bob Thomas on platforms and Peter Brookshaw on marketing and blogging. 2017 the speakers included John Sandeman editor of Eternity, Cheryl McGrath CMS, David Goodwin on IT, John Lemmon on Blogging and small groups and others Last year 2018 the speakers included Peter Brookshaw on IT, David Goodwin on The Cloud, Ben Campbell Africa Enterprise on international mission IT and Ashley Saunders mid size mission IT. Photo - the two planary speakers for One Day in Melbourne Peter Brookshaw and Mark Rusic 2019 plenaries and afternoon fun With all that behind One Day in Melbourne Peter and Jo Brookshaw taking the first plenary followed by Mark Rusic the second morning plenary on mentoring. The afternoon session is in planning with Peter Brookshaw arranging a speed dating type experience, for delegates in two rows, moving along after 1-2 minutes and swapping Mission Business Cards a get to know you process. Back to the Future The 2016 One Day in Sydney (same format as One Day in Melbourne) combined with the annual young writers conference and for 2019 the new leadership of One Day in Melbourne has warmed to this and on Saturday 10 August will combine with the 2019 young writer conference. The plan is a proven one, the two morning seminars will be combined with One Day in Melbourne and the annual Young Writer Conference. The afternoon 2 hour session the two groups have their individual space One Day in Melbourne in the seminar hall, the PSI Young Writers in the other areas of the massive facility. At 4.00pm are the exciting annual awards for the young writers which the One Day in Melbourne delegates may attend or head home. Photo - 2016 One Day in Melbourne small group 2019 One Day in Melbourne program Open 9.00-9.20am Welcome 9.45am and short devotional 10.00am 1st plenary 11.00am morning tea 11.30am 2nd plenary with small groups 12.30pm lunch 1.30pm - 2 hours Two groups in separate areas One Day in Melbourne and Young Writers 3.30pm - Afternoon tea 4.00pm - Annual young writer awards To register, even at this early stage, Email the Craigieburn Salvation Army peter.brookshaw@aus.salvationarmy.org 0409 789 866 Photo - Rev Bob Thomas editor New Life and John Sandeman editor Eternity at One Day in Melbourne 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 If I had a penny for every time someone posted or shared something offensive to Christians on social mediaId have a lot of pennys that I wouldnt know what to do with because we dont use pennys in Australia. The news lately has been bombarded with different points on the topic of Australian Rugby player, Israel Folaus controversial Instagram post. The post was a strict warning of what he believes awaits sinners and those who dont repent, but also highlights Gods love for everyone. There have be arguments made for the harsh truths of the post possibly offending someone and being too blunt for social media, but the idea that someone could be offended by something that they dont believe in makes very little sense. Inclusion or delusion With Folaus job and career on the line its probably worth mentioning that it would be real discrimination to fire him based on his religious beliefs no matter how vocal he is. Its interesting that his post might be considered hate speech or an infringement on religious freedom laws, this is a dangerous territory for freedom of speech for every Australian. Politics aside, Israels post is no different to a public figure sharing global warming posts in the hope that someone hears the message. In the same sense, not everyone believes in global warming and those who dont are generally not offended by people who tell them were all going to die in 20 years, because it simply means nothing to them. Rugby Australia hopes to promote inclusion by excluding Folau, but if RA hopes to avoid taking a position in religious or political arguments then they ought to exclude all sponsors and affiliations who endorse any sort of political agenda, right? Wouldnt that fix everything? Whoever acknowledges me For a public figure to profess their beliefs on social media to an audience of almost half a million plus whatever publicity his post got him, is sadly uncommon and it isnt hard to see why. Something to notice about Folaus post is that it isnt anything that hasnt already been addressed in the Bible itself, to back this up, Folau quoted Galatians 5:19-21 KJV in the caption. His post isnt introducing any new or radical ideas to be contested by christians or the public, this information is open to everyone whether they have Instagram or not. To be offended by this post one would have to recognise the authority of God, his existence and the weight of sin, or it would mean nothing to the non-believer. Also worth mentioning is this isnt his first post declaring his faith and sharing the word of God, people only seem to be offended when it suits them or when their conscience threatens their consequence-less lifestyle. Folau is undoubtedly a fearless follower of God and will see the benefits of his faithfulness. Matthew chapter 10 verse 32 says: Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. For the not-yet-saved reader, in regards to the truth in Folaus post, its important to know that christians only despise the sin, not the sinner. Jesse Moore draws from the Bible and classical literature for insight into lifes tough questions. He is currently studying at university to become a film-maker. Jesse Moores previous articles can be viewed at: https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/jesse-moore.html In secret, behind locked gates, our Nation's Oldest City dumped a landfill in a lake (Old City Reservoir), while emitting sewage in our rivers and salt marsh. Organized citizens exposed and defeated pollution, racism and cronyism. We elected a new Mayor. We're transforming our City -- advanced citizenship. Ask questions. Make disclosures. Demand answers. Be involved. Expect democracy. Report and expose corruption. Smile! Help enact a St. Augustine National Park and Seashore. We shall overcome! The contents of Cockroach Catcher Blog (text and photos) are strictly the copyright of Dr Am Ang Zhang and all rights are reserved. Other bloggers are welcome to quote and use any of the content of the articles on the internet or in their own blogs as long as it is acknowledged. Anyone wishing to use substantial parts or all of any of the articles is asked to contact Dr Am Ang Zhang (cockroachcatcher (at)gmail (dot)com) in advance. A legislative proposal to make fundamental changes in the way Nebraska funds K-12 schools and in the process deliver an estimated $500 million in property tax relief has earned the support of several Nebraska agriculture organizations. The groups announced their support leading into first round legislative debate on LB 289, a bill advanced by the Legislatures Revenue Committee. LB 289 provides much needed fundamental reforms to help break the cycle of overreliance on property taxes for funding K-12 education, said Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau president, in a provided statement. This is no property tax band-aid. Were talking about major tax and education funding reform, the likes of which we have not seen from the Legislature in a long, long time. The groups support for the bill is founded in the fact it addresses two major issues, specifically the states overreliance on property taxes for funding K-12 education and the states failure to provide funding to help cover education costs for all K-12 students. Today the state picks up the majority education funding costs for students in some school districts, while doing little to nothing to help cover the costs of education for others. The state clearly has a responsibility to help all our students no matter where they live, or the school they attend. LB 289 would help achieve that, said Robert Johnston, Nebraska Soybean Association president. LB 289 would address student funding inequities by establishing per-student Foundation aid for every school in the state. In addition, the bill would establish a minimum aid guarantee to ensure one-third of an individual schools needs are covered by the state. The bill tackles the overreliance on property taxes to fund schools by replacing those dollars with new sources of revenue, including elimination of numerous service-based sales tax exemptions, increasing states sales tax rate, increasing cigarette taxes, and eliminating the states personal property tax exemption among other items. Nebraskas three-legged tax stool of property, sales, and income taxes has long been out of balance with property taxes being a major contributor to funding state priorities. LB 289 will help better balance our tax system by increase the sales tax contribution, while offsetting reductions in property taxes used for school funding, said Dan Nerud, Nebraska Corn Growers Association president. When fully implemented, LB 289 would lower Nebraskans property tax bills anywhere between seven to 20 percent, with Nebraskans seeing reductions in taxes paid for schools in the range of 15 to 40 percent, depending on the school district where their property is located. LB 289 puts Nebraska on the right track for funding our schools and in the process delivers significant property tax relief for all Nebraskans. This is not the states largest tax increase as the Governor and others have suggested, but rather, this bill reflects one of the largest property tax reductions in our states history, said Tim Chancellor, Nebraska Pork Producers Association president. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 With less than a month left (18 legislative days) the 106th Legislature has been making progress on some lower profile measures that dont often take THE spotlight like property taxes and the budget. A sampling of measures passed ranges from relief for Gage County in a massive federal judgment stemming from a botched murder investigation 34 years ago to allowing the Tourism Commission to capitalize on an advertising campaign that has, honestly, taken the country by storm. Lawmakers gave 43-6 final approval to a measure stemming from the Beatrice Six case in which a federal judge awarded more than $28 million in damages to six men and women wrongfully convicted of the rape and homicide of a Beatrice woman in 1985. After they were exonerated by DNA evidence, the six sued in 2016 and the county was unable to pay after it learned its insurance policies had either lapsed or otherwise wouldnt cover the expense. The bill (LB472) was brought by former County Board member Myron Dorn of Adams who was just elected to the Legislature. It authorizes a county board to adopt a resolution to impose a sales and use tax of 0.5 percent on transactions within the county to pay a qualified judgment rendered against a county by a federal court for a violation of federal law. The state tax commissioner will administer and collect the tax for a three percent fee. The money may be used only for the judgment and the tax will end after the judgment is paid or after seven years, whichever is earlier. The bill further requires that the county property tax levy be set at the 50-cent maximum for each year it imposes the tax. This appears to be the only way out of the unfortunate mess for the county. Appropriations Committee Chairman John Stinner of Gering offered a bill (LB637) to allow the Nebraska Tourism Commission to develop and approve state marketing campaigns and develop and sell tourism products such as cups and T-shirts and banners and whatever in the wake of one of the states most successful tourism campaigns. Revenue will go to the commissions promotional cash fund. Stinner told his colleagues that the department was swamped with requests for such items after the Nebraska, Honestly its not for everyone! campaign went viral before it was even launched. The Commission realized it didnt have the authority to create and sell such items. The 49-0 vote approved the measure, which takes effect immediately, just in time for peak summer travel season. Thats better than nice. Two measures that will help economically disadvantaged areas of the state were offered by Omaha Senator Justin Wayne and passed by his colleagues. The first, Legislative Resolution 14, passed 43-2, will allow voters to approve a Constitutional Amendment in 2020 to extend the maximum length of time to repay tax-increment financing indebtedness in certain cases. If approved, the amendment will authorize the Legislature to extend the maximum repayment period for TIF indebtedness from 15 to 20 years if, due to a high rate of unemployment combined with a high poverty rate as determined by law, more than half of the property in a project area is designated as extremely blighted (a census tract with an average unemployment rate that is at least 200 percent of the average state unemployment rate and an average poverty rate of more than 20 percent). Wayne also offered a bill (LB87) to require the state Department of Economic Development to provide a preference for grant applications at least partially located within an opportunity zone as designated by the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The bill passed 49-0. This is an opportunity to erase the black eye that TIF has earned over the years. Lawmakers also passed LB713, sponsored by Omaha Senator Tony Vargas, to require the legislative fiscal analyst to create additional revenue and budget reports throughout the biennium to provide sustainable funding for projects into the future. This is essential planning that transcends the edict that one Legislature cannot bind a subsequent one. Also passed was LB390, introduced by Lincoln Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, to require the state Department of Education to develop a model memorandum of understanding to govern the use of school resource officers or security guards. The document will include training requirements for the officers and requires the school to maintain records of each student referral for prosecution, including the reason for each referral and federally identified demographic characteristics of each student. This, too, just makes sense. J.L. Schmidt has been covering Nebraska government and politics since 1979. He has been a registered Independent for 20 years. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Opposition Media and other leftist cultural arbiters have finally found a 'Christian' presidential candidate with whom they are not embarrassed to be seen in public. This religious token is Pete Buttigieg, whose day job is mayor of South Bend, Indiana. It's not that these leftist stenographers posing as journalists have become more open to the Christian message. They're as ignorant of the Bible and elementary Christian beliefs as they've always been. Reading an OpMedia journo's take on basic theology is like listening to Ann Coulter discuss quinceanera preparations with Vicente Fox. That doesn't really matter though, for as the Atlantic says, "Democrats who are drawn to him are embracing him not because of his faith but because of his liberalism. They're willing to indulge the former so long as it advances the latter. For many Democrats, faith is an instrumentality." In Buttigieg's case the instrumentality is part of his niche marking effort. As CNN described his appearance at its town hall, "Pete Buttigieg opened up about his faith Monday night, expressing confidence that he will be able to unite many different groups of people because 'God does not have a political party.'" I predict a sweep of Unitarians, dissident Methodists, squishy Presbyterians and his own heretical Episcopalians. And there's Pastor Pete's problem. He's a Burger King Christian who wants to have the Bible his way. Pete's another mainline Protestant who failed to realize as his church became more 'relevant' the membership became more absent. Buttigieg won't appeal to any church attendee who's not already voting Democrat. The portions of his bio that are so appealing to the left are what disqualify him with believers. Pastor Pete is an alphabet apostate who is married to a man. The Godless media can't understand what all the fuss is about. Trump is a serial adulterer who refuses to turn the other cheek and has never bought into the theory of a kind word turns away wrath - while Pastor Pete is a low--key Rhodes Scholar who talks about compassion and never talks about cheating on his husband. So, what's not to like? Buttigieg theology for starters. During the town hall, he offered to meet those close-minded bigots who think marriage is one-man-one--woman halfway when he opined, "I get that one of the things about Scripture is different people see different things in it." I would go so far to say people who are different might try to soft-pedal or ignore inconvenient Scripture, but that's my limit. The Bible isn't a Magic 8-ball providing enigmatic answers when shaken. The centuries old theological basis for sex and marriage is not up for grabs. Pastor Pete doesn't even like to use the 'C' word. On CNN he was a "person of faith" who told the audience, "And part of God's love is experienced, according to my faith tradition, is in the way that we support one another and, in particular, support the least among us." A "faith tradition" is Baptists refusing to dance or Lutheran's strange attachment to hot dish dinners. The clear prohibition against homosexuality and limiting marriage to one man and one woman is a foundational belief, not a "tradition." My advice is to keep that bit of self-righteous boasting about "the least" in mind when Buttigieg finally releases his tax returns. If he's part of the hypocritical one-percent-to-charity club Pastor Pete is going to have to explain why he leaves the collection plate empty. Buttigieg also lines up with the rest of the Democrats on the wrong side of the second great moral issue that has faced this country: abortion. Here he's biblical, but only in the sense he's channeling Pontius Pilate. On Meet the Press Pastor Pete just washed his hands, "But in my view, [abortion] is a question that is almost unknowable. This is a moral question that's not going to be settled by science." Buttigieg is just as relentless in harvesting the souls of the unborn as is the governor of Virginia, Ralph 'Blackface' Northam. I would venture that most of his supporters on the left like him in spite of his diluted 'Christianity.' An authentic Christian writer named Rod Dreher has looked at Pastor Pete and devised an excellent question that will really test the depth of Buttigieg's belief in the Christ of the Bible, "I hope some journalist asks Buttigieg to talk about an instance in which his faith caused him to break with the progressive consensus in a meaningful way." In the unlikely event it happens, I predict the articulate Pastor Pete will suddenly fall silent. Michael Shannon is a commentator and public relations consultant, and is the author of "A Conservative Christian's Guidebook for Living in Secular Times." He can be reached at mandate.mmpr@gmail.com. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Washington, D.C., May 7, 2019 Azerbaijani authorities should swiftly investigate the harassment and attempted extortion of exiled journalist Sevinc Osmanqizi by pro-government broadcaster Real TV, the Committee to Protect Journalists said today. On April 7, Real TV aired a segment, which CPJ has reviewed, which included audio from a private conversation between Osmanqizi, who lives in the United States, and another journalist who lives in Europe. During the broadcast, a Real TV anchor accused Osmanqizi of engaging in activities against the state of Azerbaijan. Osmanqizi hosts an online TV program, Osmanqizi TV, which discusses political issues in Azerbaijan and has featured figures from Azerbaijans political opposition. She told CPJ that the leaked conversation took place in early April via Facebooks audio calling feature, and she did not know how Real TV obtained a recording of the conversation. On April 21, Real TV aired another segment, which CPJ reviewed, during which an anchor threatened to release intimate photos of the journalist in seven days unless she ceased her online TV program and issued an apology. As of May 7, Osmanqizi has continued to broadcast her program, according to a CPJ review of her YouTube page. These abhorrent attempts to silence a journalist must stop immediately, said Gulnoza Said, CPJs Europe and Central Asia Program Coordinator in New York. Azerbaijani authorities should investigate these public threats and harassment of Sevinc Osmanqizi and hold the perpetrators to account. The issue of surveillance of an exiled Azeri journalist should also be investigated. Real TV and the Azerbaijan prosecutor generals office did not respond to CPJs emailed requests for comment. In 2012, Azerbaijani investigative journalist Khadija Ismailova was subjected to an intimidation campaign after reporting on the ruling familys extensive business interests, with state media organizations spearing her reputation and anonymous individuals circulating intimate videos and photos of her online, as CPJ reported at the time. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram Miami, May 8, 2019The Committee to Protect Journalists welcomes the sentencing on May 6 of former paramilitary fighters Alejandro Cardenas Orozco and Jesus Emiro Pereira Rivera for the kidnapping, rape, and torture of Colombian journalist Jineth Bedoya Lima in 2000. A court in Bogota, in a ruling made public May 7, sentenced Pereira to 40 years and six months in prison for the attack, according to the Bogota-based Foundation for Press Freedom (FLIP) and news reports. The court also sentenced Cardenas to 30 years in prison for assault, according to the same sources; he had already been sentenced to 11 years in prison in 2016 on charges of kidnapping and torture in the same case, as documented by CPJ. In the decision, the court found that other third parties could be held responsible, including a former high-ranking police official, and it forwarded copies of the case to the prosecutors office for further investigation, according to the same sources. The conviction and sentencing of two men involved in the violent attack against journalist Jineth Bedoya is another important victory in her courageous 19-year fight against impunity, said CPJ South and Central America Program Coordinator Natalie Southwick in New York. However, it is still not the last step. Colombian authorities must continue to investigate this horrific crime and ensure that all of those responsible face justice. Bedoya was reporting on paramilitary death squads for the daily El Espectador when she was kidnapped outside La Modelo prison in Bogota on May 25, 2000, according to CPJ reporting. The assailants drove her to the nearby city of Villavicencio, where she was beaten and raped, according to the attorney generals office. Bedoya wrote about the attack in The Sadness of May the 25, an article in the 2016 edition of CPJs Attacks on the Press. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Email Telegram New York, May 8, 2019 The Committee to Protect Journalists is deeply concerned by civil defamation lawsuits filed in the U.S. state of Florida against journalist Daniel Coronell by former Colombian president Alvaro Uribe Velez, now a senator, and his allies, which could have a chilling effect on reporting on the Colombian politician. In a lawsuit served to Coronell yesterday, which CPJ has reviewed, Uribe alleges that Coronell committed defamation by implication, arguing that the journalist juxtaposed a series of facts to create false innuendos that the former president had engaged in illegal activities, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice. The suit is seeking damages for an unspecified amount that exceeds $15,000. It does not specify which of Coronells claims are alleged to be false. Uribe filed the suit at the Miami-Dade Circuit Court on March 30, and an officer of the court served Coronell with the lawsuit yesterday, according to the journalist, who spoke with CPJ. He has 20 days to respond to the complaint, Coronell told CPJ. Coronell is president of news for the Spanish-language U.S. television network Univision and a columnist at Colombian news weekly Semana, and is a dual U.S.-Colombian citizen, he told CPJ. CPJ emailed Uribes senate office for comment but did not receive a reply. Coronell is also facing one lawsuit and one retraction demand from lawyers who have ties to Uribe, in what the journalist told CPJ he believes is a coordinated campaign to silence his critical reporting on multiple investigations into conduct by the former head of state. Former President Alvaro Uribe is the subject of multiple official investigations in Colombia, so it is natural and even essential for an investigative journalist to report on him critically, said Alexandra Ellerbeck, CPJs North America program coordinator. Uribe and his allies should stop harassing Daniel Coronell, and let the journalist pursue his work without fear of legal reprisal. Uribes lawsuit was filed in response to an October 13, 2018, article that Coronell published in Semana entitled This is how they prepared the declaration of Tuso Sierra, according to the suit. Uribe filed suit after first sending a letter demanding a retraction on February 19, which CPJ has reviewed; Coronell did not retract the story. The Semana article details the interactions between Diego Cadena, a lawyer close to Uribe, and Juan Carlos Sierra (known as El Tuso), a witness to a Supreme Court investigation. In the piece, Sierra is quoted stating that an unnamed lawyer pressured him to sign a letter absolving Uribes cousin of criminal activity with paramilitary groups. On March 22, Coronell received a letter from Cadena demanding a retraction. The letter, which CPJ has reviewed, notes that Florida law requires a demand for retraction before a defamation suit can be filed, although Cadena has not filed suit against Coronell, according CPJs search of the Miami-Dade court database. Coronell is also facing a defamation lawsuit in the Miami-Dade Circuit Court, filed in February 2018 and which CPJ has reviewed, from Colombian lawyer Abelardo De La Espriella relating to a piece that Coronell wrote in Semana in January 2018 called The Plane. In the article, Coronell raised questions about the origins of the young lawyers wealth, including a private jet. The suit alleges that the article constitutes defamation by implication. The suit is also seeking at least $15,000 in damages. Both Cadena and De La Espriella were identified as Uribes personal lawyers in a tweet by the former president in March. Florida, like many states in the U.S., has what is known as an anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation) law, which seeks to limit the ability of litigants to censor critics by tying them up in protracted and costly defamation litigation, according to the Digital Media Law Project. Katie Townsend, the legal director for the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press and Coronells co-counsel in the De La Espriella suit, told CPJ that the lawsuits against Coronell are textbook examples of the types of suits anti-SLAPP laws were designed to prevent. In April, Coronell published an article titled Why Do They Want to Silence Me? in Semana, in which he alleges that Cadena conspired with a close ally of Uribe to bring cases against the journalist in Florida, citing communications from June 2018 that were intercepted by the Colombian attorney generals office. Bruce Rogow, the lawyer representing both De La Espriella and Cadena, told CPJ that he is sympathetic to the needs of a free press but stands by the claims of his clients. Uribe, who served as president from 2002 to 2010 and as a senator since 2014, has been embroiled in investigations relating to his activities in office, including a Supreme Court case alleging that he engaged in witness intimidation as a senator; Cadena has been called in for questioning in relation to that case, according to news reports. In 2010, while Uribe was president, Colombias now defunct intelligence agency, the Administrative Department of Security, targeted Coronell for surveillance, according to CPJ reporting from the time. While Uribe has denied that he had any involvement in spying on journalists and opposition figures, the former subdirector of the intelligence agency implicated him in illegal surveillance activities, and the Supreme Court has asked the House of Representatives to investigate his involvement, according to news reports. Editors Note: This text has been updated to correct the spelling of President Uribes name and to include Katie Townsends affiliation with the Reporters Committee. Katie Townsend, the legal director for the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press A local Marine who has been listed as missing in action in Vietnam for more than 50 years will be honored in a ceremony Saturday. The ceremony renames the bridge carrying East High Street (Route 641) over Letort Spring Run in Carlisle as the Marine Lance Corporal Edward Rykoskey Memorial Bridge. Pair of bills will rename bridges in Cumberland County after fallen soldiers A pair of bills are in motion to rename bridges in Cumberland County to honor a pair of county soldiers who died fighting in Vietnam. The ceremony will be held at 10 a.m., May 11 at the bridge. In the event of rain, thunder or lightning, the ceremony will be held at the Old Cumberland County Courthouse on the Square in Carlisle. State Rep. Barb Gleim, state Sen. Mike Regan (R-York), U.S. Rep. Scott Perry (R-York), and Rykoskeys family are expected to attend the ceremony, which will include a military rifle salute. Rykoskey, a 1964 graduate of Carlisle High School, joined the Marines after graduation and served for two years. Roll call of Vietnam War dead from Cumberland County Thirty-four men with Cumberland County ties died in Vietnam from May 1964 to May 1970. He was stationed in the Quang Nam Province, South Vietnam, as part of C Company, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division (Rein), FMF. In an October 1988 story in The Sentinel, Rykoskeys father, Edward, said his sons reconnaissance patrol was ambushed, and his companions reported that he had been hit in the head. Despite a search, his remains were not found. Rykoskey was initially listed as having been killed on Aug. 18, 1966, which his father said was less than a month before he was scheduled to return home. He remained listed as killed in action until 1986 when his status was changed, with no explanation, to missing in action, according to a Feb. 1992 Sentinel article. He is the only serviceman from Cumberland County whose remains are not accounted for. Email Tammie at tgitt@cumberlink.com. Follow her on Twitter @TammieGitt. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 2 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Haines-Stackfield American Legion Post 826 Memorial Day Service will be held beginning at noon at Memorial Park. Col. Sylvester Brown will deliver the memorial message and Taps will be sounded by the Cumberland County Honor Guard. The service will also include the dedication of the Lincoln Cemetery Memorial Archway, a gift from the USAWC Class of 2019. In case of inclement weather, the service will be held in the Haines-Stackfield American Legion, 148 West Penn Street. HARRISBURG Amid a rise of violent attacks against the Jewish community, students and staff members at Jewish day schools in the same neighborhood as the Pittsburgh synagogue that was the site of Octobers mass shooting are asking state lawmakers to help pay for security measures. They went to Pennsylvanias Capitol on Tuesday, along with delegations from Jewish schools in other cities around the state, to meet with lawmakers about including nonpublic schools in a year-old $60 million school security grant program. It is a conversation that is growing in a number of states. New Jersey doubled money for such grants in January and Californias governor is upping his spending request to $15 million from $500,000 for increased security at nonprofit organizations at higher risk of hate crimes, like the synagogue near San Diego where a gunman killed a worshipper late last month. Like some other states, Pennsylvania began a $10 million school safety grant program after the 2012 mass shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut. It then created a new, $60 million school and community security grant program after last years mass shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida, but private schools did not have access to the grants. Heightened security has been in place at many Jewish day schools in recent years. But parents and staff at Jewish day schools say they are more alarmed now in the wake of the shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh and the shooting at Poway Chabad synagogue near San Diego on the last day of the Jewish holiday of Passover. Our students that go to school that next Monday, theyre aware, theyre aware of what happened on Passover at the synagogue, and what happens when youre wearing a yarmulke on your head, said Arielle Frankston-Morris, executive director of the Jewish education advocacy organization Teach PA. Security has been on the minds of parents and staff for a long time, she said. But after Pittsburgh, you cant ignore it, its just in your face. Violent attacks against the Jewish community in the United States doubled last year, while overall attacks that also include vandalism and harassment remained near record-high levels, the Anti-Defamation League reported last week. Samara Sofian, director of development for the Silver Academy in Harrisburg, said parents of the Jewish day schools students are asked to pay a security fee every year. But, she said, it doesnt go far enough and annually that expense increases, even if the school isnt adding safety measures. Isaac Entin, head of the Caskey Torah Academy in suburban Philadelphia, said the cost of security is a significant amount, and must come first. Since the synagogue shootings, school officials are thinking about it more. Theres no way not to, Entin said. Its how you walk down the street. Its how you go to services on Saturday, its what happens every day as you watch the kids come into school and get off the bus, watching kids, any kids from any school get on the bus as you drive through your neighborhood. The world has changed. The school is digging deep to pay for security, he said. Federal homeland security grants are hard to get, and private schools have access to a much more limited pool of state dollars than do public schools, Entin said. Nonpublic schools arent being treated the same as public schools, Entin said. We all have same threats, but were not giving equal footing for safety. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 ALLENTOWN Nearly a dozen lucky ducks have been rescued by eastern Pennsylvania firefighters after falling through a sewer grate and out of sight of their distressed mother. Emergency workers were called Tuesday morning to a street in Catasauqua, an Allentown suburb. A neighbor had witnessed 11 of 12 baby ducks drop into the drain as they attempted to hop onto the curb. The (Allentown) Morning Call reports that it took firefighters about 45 minutes to release the grate. All 11 ducklings were waiting patiently in the corner of the sewer as firefighter Samuel Safadi rescued each by hand, naming them as he brought them up. Charlie, Freddy, Brian and others reunited with their mother and sibling who were waiting nearby. Many neighbors stopped over to take a gander at the reunion. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 India and Bangladesh will jointly produce a feature movie on life and works of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (founding father of Peoples Republic of Bangladesh) and also a documentary on Bangladesh Liberation War (1971). Indias state broadcaster Prasar Bharati will co-produce the film. Bilateral Meet The decision was taken after Bangladeshi delegation led by Dr. Gowher Rizvi (adviser to Prime Minister of Bangladesh) recently met secretary and other officials of Information & Broadcasting Ministry and focussed on various aspects of making of feature film. The announcement is a culmination of three-year dialogue between India and Bangladesh on the issue. Earlier, decision of co-production was announced by Prime Ministers of India Narendra Modi and of Bangladesh Prime Ministers Sheikh Hasina. The movie announcement comes in backdrop of raging debate on National Register of Citizens (NRC) in northeast which seeks to disenfranchise Bangladeshi migrants. Key Agreement Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to stress the importance of safe boating by making the public aware of National Safe Boating Week, which takes place May 18-24, 2019. National Safe Boating Week is purposefully scheduled just prior to Memorial Day weekend, which many people consider the kickoff to the boating season. Boaters are encouraged to arrange for a thorough inspection of their boat prior to taking it out on the water this boating season. Weather, time, and other elements may affect the readiness of your boat. The Patrols marine operations troopers are available to inspect the required equipment on your boat, at your request, to make sure youre in compliance with state law. To help facilitate these inspections, marine operations troopers will be at several boat equipment inspections stations May 18, 2019. The one in Troop E is at Wappapello Lake, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Redman Recreational Boat Ramp, Missouri Route T, Wappapello, Missouri. Additional information on equipment inspection stations may be obtained from your local troop headquarters. In addition to making sure your boat equipment is in compliance with state law, make sure you are familiar with laws regarding boat operation and traditional navigational rules. Remember: Missouri law requires everyone born after January 1, 1984, who operates a vessel on Missouri lakes to possess an approved boating safety identification card. In 2018, there were 173 boating accidents reported in Missouri, with 101 injuries, and 16 fatalities. When boaters understand and obey the law, and vessels are in good operating order, everyones experience becomes safer. A life jacket for everyone on board is a must. Children under seven years old are required to wear a personal flotation device in a boat, but you are never too old to wear a life jacket. Life jackets are now lighter, less obtrusive, and more comfortable than ever before. The new inflatable life jackets allow mobility and flexibility for activities like boating, fishing, or paddling, and are much cooler in the warmer weather. Although not required by law, children playing along the shoreline or on a dock should wear a life jacket. A drowning can occur quickly, with little or no sign the victim is struggling. Life jackets save lives, please wear yours. It is important for each boat operator to know the capabilities of their boat. Reducing your speed in unfamiliar areas and being aware of unusual water conditions respective to the size and type of boat you operate are just a couple of environmental considerations. Extended time in the sun and the constant motion of the water effects every vessel operator. It's important to recognize the dangers of boater fatigue. Stay alert while enjoying Missouri's lakes and rivers. Additionally, if you combine alcohol with boater fatigue your reaction time and thought process will be much slower. Designate a sober captain if you choose to consume alcohol. Additional safe boating tips: 1) Be a defensive boat operator ... creating distance from other boats equals more reaction time. 2) Adjust your speed for the conditions ... if visibility is poor, or the water is rough, slow down. 3) Turn off the boat while passengers are entering/exiting the water. 4) If you will be out on the water after dark, check your navigation lights before you leave the dock or ramp. 5) Each boat operator is responsible for doing whatever they can to avoid a crash. Dont expect other boats to move out of your way. 6) Be courteous with your wake. Boaters are reminded to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol by dialing *55 on a cellular phone if they need assistance or observe another boater operating a vessel in an unsafe manner. Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!! Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 ABC/Image Group LABrett Young is back and ready to hit the road for the final dates of Kelsea Ballerinis Miss Me More Tour. Saturday night in Sioux City, Iowa, the Here Tonight hitmaker was forced to end his show after the first song because he lost his voice. But he announced on Instagram on Wednesday. Hey, y'all good news. Im feeling much better and I cant wait to see yall this weekend. Meanwhile, Kelsea's getting a little bit sentimental over the impending end of the tour. Ive loved every second of every show and feel so lucky to have shared it with these guys, she posted, along with a picture of herself sitting onstage with Brett and newcomer Brandon Ratcliff. We need to get you a pair of black Vans, Brandon commented. He and Brett are wearing identical shoes in the photo, while Kelseas are different. Thursday night, the Miss Me More trek stops in Duluth, Minnesota, before continuing on to Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Fargo, North Dakota on Friday and Saturday. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. The Missouri House has sent a proposed constitutional amendment to the Senate that would give voters a choice on how the state handles the legislative redistricting process. If approved by voters, the legislation would make changes to Amendment 1, better known as Clean Missouri, which was passed during the last general election. The proposal would also strengthen the ethics reforms that were part of Amendment 1. I supported House Joint Resolution 48, 46 & 47 and here are my reasons: Clean Missouri (Amendment 1) had a five dollar lobbyist gift limit. Lets have a sincere lobbyist gift ban of zero. Clean Missouri had contribution limits of $2,500 for the Senate and $2,000 for Representatives. The House of Representatives and the Senate are equal legislative bodies. I support lowering the Senate limit to $2,000. Clean Missouri had redistricting priorities of partisan fairness (same number of republicans and democrats in a district). This would create non-contiguous districts (spaghetti-like districts) with likely the mixing of urban and rural areas. It would be difficult to represent a district where half the folks want to ban guns, raise taxes and oppose the right to life, and the other half does not? HJR 48, 46 & 47 would preserve communities and families by creating districts where counties are kept together if at all possible. I supported this bill to have a bipartisan commission of citizens draw the lines. A commission of citizens, NOT politicians or a demographer chosen by the State Auditor to draw district maps. HJR 48, 46 & 47 does not change anything. It simply would allow voters the opportunity to clean up Clean Missouri. Missouri General Assembly Honors Missouris Vietnam Veterans Recently, the halls of the Missouri State Capitol were filled with hundreds of the states greatest heroes as the Missouri House of Representatives held a special ceremony in recognition of the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War. Legislators gathered in the first-floor rotunda of the State Capitol to remember and recognize the courage and unwavering patriotism of the valiant individuals who served during the Vietnam War. The event was created to recognize Vietnam-era veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975. All those in attendance also paused to remember those who have been lost, including POWs and those who are still listed as MIA. I want to offer my most sincere thanks and gratitude for the selfless service veterans have provided to our country. This is a nation with a rich tradition of heroism and bravery exhibited by outstanding individuals. Americans who put the love of country before love of self. During this special ceremony, I couldnt help but think about our upcoming grand opening for our Missouri National Veterans Memorial in Perryville on Saturday, May 18th at 10:00 a.m. Hope to see you there. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 I recently traveled to Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, to visit with Dr. Cary Chevaliers Renewable Resources Policy and Administration class. The students were exploring environmental laws and policies that address contemporary natural resource management issues at the state and national levels. To supplement their learning, Dr. Chevalier invites resource professionals from various agencies to meet with the students and discuss examples of real-life projects and how laws and policies figure into the planning and implementing of them. It is always a pleasure to interact with students who are contemplating a career in natural resources management. While up in the St. Joseph area, I took some personal time and drove over to Grand Island, Nebraska, to experience the annual sandhill crane migration. Each spring, the cranes migrate from the Gulf Coast area and stop along the Platte River to rest and feed before heading north. As luck would have it, I picked the week when a record number of sandhill cranes were present more than 600,000 birds were in the Central Platte River Valley between Chapman and Overton, Nebraska. I stopped in at the Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center and learned that the cranes roost on the river at night and head out to nearby fields to forage for leftover grain, earthworms, and other invertebrates during the day. One can drive slowly along the county roads and watch the cranes feed and dance. Road pull-offs are signed to encourage birdwatchers to use those areas to stop, watch and listen to the cranes. Interestingly, the cranes I saw that week were mostly headed to Siberia to nest and raise their young. Bird migration stories like that are amazing. In our neck of the woods, we have our own interesting migration stories. One of our favorite visitors is the ruby-throated hummingbird. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, it spends the winter in Central America. Most get there by flying across the Gulf of Mexico. Some birds stay in North America along the Gulf Coast, parts of the southern Atlantic coast, and at the tip of Florida; these are usually birds from farther north. I noticed my first hummingbird on April 27th, but they are usually in our area in early-mid April. May 11, 2019 is World Migratory Bird Day in the Americas and the theme for this years event is: Protect Birds: Be the Solution to Plastic Pollution (https://www.migratorybirdday.org/). Did you know that plastic poses a risk of both ingestion and entanglement to migratory birds, which can lead to illness, entrapment and serious injury? Scientists estimate that 80% of seabirds and shorebirds have ingested plastic. To celebrate World Migratory Bird Day 2019, plan to do a little bird watching and take the plastic pledge. Pledge examples include: I pledge to say no to at least one single-use plastic item per week; I pledge to pick up plastic pollution and dispose of it properly; or, I pledge to recycle/dispose of any plastic item I use. Doing just one of these things can help our feathered friends that bring us so much enjoyment. The Potosi Ranger Station is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 am4:30 pm. You can reach us by calling 573-438-5427. To receive updates on Mark Twain National Forest events and happenings, follow us on Twitter @marktwain_nf, and like us on our Facebook page, ww.facebook.com/marktwainnationalforest. Mark Twain National Forest Its All Yours. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Farmington Park and Recreation's annual Wiggle and Giggle brought out kids of all ages to Hager Lake on Saturday to enjoy a day of fishing and fun. "We had 105 kids registered that morning for this year's Wiggle and Giggle," said John Bader, Farmington Civic Center's Program and Communications coordinator. "It was followed by a meal cooked by members of the Farmington Kiwanis Club and the giving away of prizes that were donated by sponsors." Bader said that prizes were awarded to eight kids four of which were in the preschool to age 7 division and four in the ages 8-14 division. Winners in the younger age category: Heaviest Fish, William Street; Longest Fish, Carson Aubuchon; Most Fish Caught, Hunter Aubuchon; and Oddest Catch, Lane Kendrick. Winners in the older age category: Heaviest Fish, Madison Wilfong; Longest Fish, Jaxson Bartley; Most Fish Caught, Colin Snider; and Oddest Catch, Tylar Stevens. "We also had one boy and one girl Colin Snyder and Abby Harris win a raffle for bicycles donated by C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home," Bader said. "It was just a great day all around. The kids had fun and so did the adults." Other sponsors who helped in putting on this year's event were Pepsi-Cola, Harris Heating and Cooling, Country Mart, Little Caesars, Rally's, Steak 'n Shake, Cici's Pizza, Qdoba Mexican Grill, Pasta House, C-Barn, Buffalo Wild Wings, and the Missouri Department of Conservation. Bader said the Parks and Recreation Department is looking forward to next year's Wiggle and Giggle when people come out again for a great time of fishing, eating and competing for prizes. Kevin R. Jenkins is the managing editor of the Farmington Press and can be reached at 573-756-8927 or kjenkins@farmingtonpressonline.com Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Charges have been filed against Brandon Downs, 36, of Potosi, stemming from an alleged assault that occurred last month in Park Hills. St. Francois County Prosecutor Melissa Gilliam charged Downs with six felony counts on Wednesday. The charges include felony assault in the first degree, felony kidnapping in the first degree, two counts of felony armed criminal action, and two counts of felony sodomy in the first degree. If convicted of these charges, Downs could face sentences of life imprisonment. Downs is currently being held at the St. Francois County Jail on a $250,000 cash-only bond. According to the probable cause statement, on April 27, Downs was in the Park Hills residence of a 45-year-old woman when she arrived home from work. Downs became angry with the woman, punched her in the face and drug her by her hair to her upstairs bedroom. Downs then force the woman to disrobe and shower. After the woman exited the shower, the statement states that Downs punched her in her ribs, placed her on the bed where he beat her in the head with a blunt object causing her skull to fracture and brain to bleed. The report then states that the woman fell unconscious and later awoke to Downs having deviate sexual intercourse with her. According to police reports, the woman was found outside her home hours later. She was taken to the hospital where she was treated for a skull fracture, brain bleed, and five broken ribs. Authorities had been searching for Downs as a person of interest since the incident occurred. According to Park Hills Police Chief Richard McFarland, an anonymous tip was submitted to the department Tuesday regarding the location of the suspect. The information was that Downs was staying at a residence in Lake Hanna. After receiving the tip, McFarland asked St. Francois County Sheriff's Department to investigate the area. Upon the deputy's arrival at the residence where Downs had reportedly been staying, the homeowner cooperated and allowed them to search the residence. As the deputies were entering the residence, Downs reportedly escaped through a window in the back of the house and he fled on foot for approximately a half mile, according to McFarland. He said Downs then broke into a cabin and barricaded the door. The pursuing deputies were eventually able to push through the barricaded door where they found Downs hiding under a mattress. Downs was then taken into custody and transported to the St. Francois County Jail where he was questioned by Park Hills Police Sgt. Summer Bess. Downs has previous convictions. Downs pleaded guilty to a charge of felony C domestic assault in St. Francois County and received probation with a seven-year suspended sentence in 2015. Downs violated probation and served a 120-day shock incarceration in the Missouri Department of Corrections in 2017. Downs also pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance except 35 grams or less or marijuana in Washington County in 2012 for which he also received probation. In addition, Downs also entered an Alford plea to a misdemeanor domestic assault charge in Washington County in February of 2018 for which he received two years of probation. Bobby Radford is a reporter for the Daily Journal. He can be reached at 573-518-3628, or at bradford@dailyjournalonline.com. Love 1 Funny 6 Wow 2 Sad 4 Angry 31 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Brandon Downs has been arrested following an anonymous tip to the Park Hills Police Department regarding his location. Park Hills Police Department had issued a "stop and hold" for a Downs as a person of interest in connection with the assault of a woman at her Park Hills residence on April 27. According to Park Hills Police, a 45-year-old female had been found beaten outside her home in Park Hills early that morning. The victim was taken to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. According to Park Hills Police Chief Richard McFarland, an anonymous tip was submitted to the department earlier Tuesday regarding the location of Downs. The information was that Downs was staying at a residence in Lake Hanna. After receiving the tip, McFarland asked St. Francois County Sheriff's Department to investigate the area. Upon the deputy's arrival at the residence where Downs had reportedly been staying, the homeowner cooperated and allowed them to search the residence. As the deputies were entering the residence, Downs reportedly escaped through a window in the back of the house and he fled on foot for approximately a half mile, according to McFarland. He said Downs then broke into a cabin and barricaded the door. The pursuing deputies were eventually able to push through the barricaded door where they found Downs hiding under a mattress. He was then taken into custody and transported to the St. Francois County Jail. Late Tuesday night, Sgt. Summer Bess was interviewing Downs at the jail. McFarland said that he hopes to have warrants filed first thing in the morning. McFarland went on to say that he wanted to thank all the help given by the St. Francois County Sheriff's Department, Washington County Sheriff's Department, and everyone who has submitted information regarding the search for Downs. He made special mention of a thank you to Deputy Rion from Washington County and Deputy Rion from St. Francois County. The two deputies, who are brothers, have been instrumental in the capture of Downs, he said. These deputies have just been real helpful in the ongoing search, McFarland said. There's been multiple deputies from both agencies that have helped and I want to thank both agencies. Love 38 Funny 8 Wow 4 Sad 2 Angry 5 One temporary restraining order has been dissolved and a separate preliminary injunction has been granted. A hearing was held Friday at the St. Francois County Courthouse to present legal arguments in the case of Terre Du Lac community member Herman Reiser filing a temporary restraining order against two members of Terre Du Lac Associations Board of Directors, Cary Combs and Gary Keithley. During the hearing, the attorneys for each party gave legal arguments as to whether or not the order should remain in effect. Robert Reid, attorney for the respondents in the case, made a motion to dismiss the order on the grounds that the petitioner did not meet the legal requirements to be granted such an order. According to Missouri Revised Statute 355.356, certain legal requirements must be met for the removal, by court order, of members serving on a board of a corporation. Among the legal requirements set forth are that the petitioners of such an order must represent 10 percent of the voting class of the association. The attorney for the petitioner, Vonne Karraker argued that Supreme Court rules outline criteria for such an order. Karraker also cited court precedents that she claimed do allow for such an order. After the legal arguments of both parties were heard, Associate Circuit Judge Joseph Goff Jr. said that the court would take all arguments into consideration and then make a decision. A decision was made a short time later and the court found cause to dissolve the temporary restraining order filed on behalf of Reiser. Also on May 3, Karraker filed for a different temporary restraining order similar to, but not the same as, the temporary injunction that was dissolved. In this filing, the petitioner was current Terre Du Lac board member Michael Tilley. The court ruled that Tilley did meet the legal requirements for such a petition and the temporary order was granted. Among the stipulations of this new order, the respondents are still restrained from taking actions as officers or board members for the Terre Du Lac Association pending the final decision made by the court. They are also restricted from gaining access to, deleting, or altering in any manner whatsoever any and all financial records and other records pertaining to the Association. The Daily Journal reached out to both of the respondents in this case for comment. Combs stated that he was never in possession of passwords to the TOPS accounting system used by the association nor was he in possession of any keys to the association office or private offices. He said he has never even seen financial documents other than ones presented at board meetings. Combs said he turned over what little documents he had to the Terre Du Lac Police Department after the first order was granted despite the claims that were made in the previous petition documents. Keithley declined comment pending Thursday's hearing. A hearing is scheduled for Thursday in which each party involved in this matter will have the opportunity to present to the court their arguments as to whether or not the order should remain in full effect until a final hearing and order is entered in this proceeding. Bobby Radford is a reporter for the Daily Journal. He can be reached at 573-518-3628, or at bradford@dailyjournalonline.com. Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 4 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. DEAR ABBY: I have been happily married for more than 40 years. Since he retired a couple of years ago, it has come to my attention that he has been getting mail at a separate private mailbox. I don't see a good reason for this, and it is weighing on me heavily. I don't want to make a big deal out of it, but I'm concerned. He sees all our bills and evidently pays other ones I'm not aware of. Because of this, I feel like a second-class citizen who is too stupid to know all the ins and outs of our finances. Because I don't see anything he buys or pays for, I remain in the dark. Conversely, he sees where every penny I spend goes. It's not that he isn't generous; I lack for nothing. It's that he is secretive. (I don't think he is into porn or something else nefarious.) At this stage in my marriage, have you any advice for me? If I confront him, I'm not confident he would give me all the information. Am I being too demanding? Should I let sleeping dogs lie? -- IN THE DARK IN THE NORTHWEST DEAR IN THE DARK: Unless you want to become like so many unfortunate women whose husbands keep the details of their finances from "the little woman," you will tell your husband you want to know how much money you both have, how it is invested and where it goes. If he is resistant, explain that women usually outlive their husbands, and you do not want to be caught flat-footed in addition to grieving in the event of his demise. If your marriage is as strong as you describe, he should recognize the wisdom in it. Right now the mailbox is the least of your worries. Save that conversation for another time. DEAR ABBY: I recently got engaged, and my wedding is a year and a half away. My best friend, "Crystal," is going to be my maid of honor. I know everyone has different insecurities, so I'm letting my bridesmaids choose their own dresses as long as they are the right color. However, I'm worried about Crystal and her dress. She's larger than the other girls. I know she will want to lose weight for the wedding. She has been saying she wants to lose weight for some time. Unfortunately, she isn't committed, and she stress eats. I was thinking about having her come with me and buying a dress for her. While I'm trying to keep the dresses cheap, I know they can be expensive. Should I order the size Crystal thinks she will get down to? Current size? Bigger? I know it's usually better to order up because it's easier to make dresses smaller than larger. I don't know what to do and don't want to insult her. -- BAFFLED BRIDE DEAR BAFFLED BRIDE: The responsibility for choosing a dress that fits should be Crystal's, not yours. If you insert yourself into the process, and the dress is too small by the time the wedding rolls around, the blame may fall on you. If you suggest she buy something (in the right color) closer to the date of the wedding, the chances are better that it will fit. DEAR ABBY: I'm a 72-year-old married woman. My husband has atypical Parkinson's and can no longer talk or walk. I exercise six days a week, but I need someone to talk to, to share life with. I tell my husband what I do each day, but of course, there is no feedback. He's at home, and we have 24-hour care. Can I date? If I explained to him how I need companionship, he might agree. But am I being selfish? This has been going on for six years. I figure I have only 10 productive years left -- maybe fewer. I feel like my life is over. Please help me. I feel like I'm dying. -- REQUIRES COMPANIONSHIP DEAR REQUIRES COMPANIONSHIP: I think it would be not only selfish but cruel to tell your husband you need companionship and want to seek another relationship. How would you feel if you were in his position, unable to walk or talk, and he said that to you? If ever I heard of a person who needs to join a support group, it is you. The American Parkinson Disease Association (apdaparkinson.org) can help you locate one. The toll-free phone number is (800) 223-2732. As to my giving you permission to date, that's something that should be between you and your conscience or higher power, not Dear Abby. P.S. Couples who face this kind of diagnosis should have this conversation in advance. DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been married 35 years, and I'm not sure how to respond to some recent developments in our relationship. Ever since our wedding, I have tried to persuade him to attend church with me, but he always declined, preferring instead to stay home and catch up on his sleep. Both of us are Protestants, so I don't think my denomination was an issue. However, when his older brother moved back to our area a few months ago, my husband decided to attend church services regularly with him and his family. On top of that, he now wants us to have separate Facebook accounts and separate email addresses. For the most part, I have kept my feelings to myself, but I am worried that my needs are no longer important to him. Do you think I have a reason to be concerned? -- WORRIED WIFE IN WICHITA DEAR WIFE: Yes, I do. Any drastic change in a spouse's behavior is cause for concern, and his sudden desire to separate his internet activity from yours is another red flag. Stop keeping your feelings to yourself and speak up. He may be doing something on Sunday mornings besides going to church with his brother. DEAR ABBY: I was convicted of a crime and did three years on a six-year sentence. My daughter was 2 when I was incarcerated. I was released last year and am currently on parole. I tried contacting my ex-wife about seeing our daughter and being a part of her life, but I only made things worse. Now she's trying to hide my girl from me. I'm trying my best, but she refuses to put me on child support. What do I do? -- TROUBLED FATHER DEAR TROUBLED: You may have to take your ex-wife to court. If you're able to afford it, seek advice from an attorney about your options. DEAR ABBY: My son bought me a car in 2012. I had no idea he was doing it. He traded my car in for this newer car. During the last five years this "gift" has been nothing but a sore spot. If I get a ding from a parking lot, it's my fault. If I let someone smoke in it, I'm unappreciative. It's always, "I do something to help you, and you're so ungrateful." I'm at the point of giving it back and riding a bus. What's the solution? -- AUTO-CHALLENGED MOM IN WEST VIRGINIA DEAR AUTO-CHALLENGED: The solution is to stand up for yourself. Your son appears to be using his "generosity" to badger you. If you haven't told him how his comments have made you feel, you should. Point out that you can't control what happens to the vehicle when you're not in it. And once a gift is given, it's the recipient's to do with as she wishes. If a friend lighting up in YOUR car doesn't bother you, you shouldn't have to apologize for it. As a last resort, consider trading the car in for one he has nothing to do with. DEAR ABBY: After 31 years of marriage, I divorced my husband last year. I was very unhappily married, and am glad to be moving forward in life. Our children suffered as well because of our marriage, and are only now beginning to make healthy choices. My problem is that people I knew ages ago have found me on social media and want to reconnect. I'm not ready for that. I don't want to discuss what's been happening for the last 32 years. I don't want to wave them off, but neither do I want to talk about my life. It would make them uncomfortable. I'm building a new life now, but it's still under construction. How do I respond to these well-meaning old friends? -- NOT READY IN THE SOUTH DEAR NOT READY: You do not have to reveal anything to these old acquaintances that you don't wish to. If they ask questions you feel are too personal or painful, all you have to say is you would rather not discuss it. Then change the subject. DEAR ABBY: My husband tosses and turns, snores, talks and sings in his sleep. In short, I cannot get my sleep when we're in the same bed. He insists that I sleep with him because "if I don't, it would create a rift in our marriage." When I tell him I love him but I need to get my sleep, he says that love is only a word for me if I don't act upon it by sleeping next to him. It has gotten so bad I am thinking of leaving him. Advice? -- ONLY A WORD IN OHIO DEAR ONLY A WORD: Rather than leave, schedule an appointment for both of you with your family physician. Because your "musical" husband is tone-deaf when he hears you need a solid night's sleep, let the doctor impress upon him how important sleep is for good mental and physical health. Many happily married couples sleep in separate beds -- and sometimes even separate rooms -- and have great relations both in and out of bed. When there are sleep problems, sleeping apart isn't a matter of rejection; it's common sense. DEAR ABBY: How old does a child have to be before she is able to choose a relative to live with? I'm the one my granddaughter wants to stay with. Her home life is in turmoil because of her parents' nasty divorce. Ever since her mother (my daughter) found out my granddaughter wants to live with me, she has forbidden her to talk to me, and me to contact her. Her mother is depressed and angry, but won't seek counseling. She doesn't talk to me unless it's to say ugly things. My granddaughter said her mother never smiles anymore. We are very close and this hurts my heart. She's a good girl and should be able to be happy. We live several hours away, and are more than willing to have her. She already has a room here, and our home is never happier than when she's visiting. We haven't spoken to her in months, and we really miss her. Her younger sibling gets most of the positive attention, while she receives mostly negative attention. I have seen this happen many times. She tries so hard to please her mom. I don't know what to do to help her. -- HEARTBROKEN IN OKLAHOMA DEAR HEARTBROKEN: It would have been helpful if you had mentioned why your daughter is angry with you and is preventing your grandchild from contacting you and vice versa. If she's in such bad shape that it is negatively affecting your granddaughter, your questions should be addressed to a lawyer. If your granddaughter is in her teens, she might be considered mature enough to ask to live with a relative other than her mother. If not, and her mother's hostility is affecting her schoolwork, a trusted teacher or counselor at school might be able to see she gets the emotional support she needs. DEAR ABBY: My husband is very outgoing. He loves chatting on the phone for hours, and talks with all the neighbors up and down the street. He's retired, so it's fine -- up to a point. We have a set time for dinner, which is 6:30, and he knows it. Invariably he'll be on the phone or up the street when it's close to dinner. I always remind him 10 to 15 minutes ahead, which gives him time to be here to eat, but he'll keep chatting until he's anywhere from 15 minutes to half an hour late to dinner. I put time and effort into preparing my meals. I grow my own vegetables and think of creative things to fix. He always comments how great the meals are, so it's not that he doesn't like my food. If it's not eaten promptly, it's overcooked/mushy/wilted, etc., so I go ahead and eat if he's not here. I'd like him to be with me when I sit down at the table. I feel it's incredibly rude for him to be late. When I tell him that, he laughs like it's a big joke. Short of treating him like a 2-year-old and throwing his food away if he doesn't show up on time, I'm not sure what to do. Can you help? -- FED UP IN NAPA, CALIF. DEAR FED UP: I can't force your husband to the dinner table and neither can you. To toss his dinner into the garbage would be too overtly hostile and a waste of food. Try this: Tell him dinner time is 6:30, but prepare the food as if it's for 6:45 or 7. DEAR ABBY: I'm a 16-year-old girl who has started college early. I love my classes, and I'm glad to be here. The problem is, the dating culture here is huge. People go on dates all the time. I have been asked out several times, and I feel comfortable going, but I feel dishonest when I don't tell them that I'm 16. However, if I'm upfront about my age, the offer usually gets rescinded, and it becomes incredibly awkward. How can I have a fun college dating experience while still being truthful about my age? -- COLLEGE STUDENT IN UTAH DEAR COLLEGE STUDENT: The age of consent for a girl in Utah is 16. For a young man, it is 18. You shouldn't jump the gun and announce your age before getting to know someone. If you are asked, of course you shouldn't lie about it. However, I see no reason to volunteer the information when you are asked for a date. DEAR ABBY: I am a 32-year-old late-deafened adult. I have been deaf in my right ear my whole life, but lost my hearing in my left ear after a tumor was removed when I was 27. I guess they are right when they say we are never fully prepared to lose things we have taken for granted for so long. I still have trouble communicating with people. I have taken a few sign language classes and four lip-reading classes, but I often feel like I'm no longer part of normal society. My question is, shouldn't I have adjusted by now regarding how people see me, since I have been without hearing for so long? -- HEARING IMPAIRED DEAR HEARING IMPAIRED: I have been told that the most isolating disability is being unable to hear. Please do not burden yourself by feeling you "should" have adjusted faster than you have. There is no set timetable for adjusting to any disability. Because you feel stuck in the process, the Hearing Loss Association of America (hearingloss.org) may be helpful because it sponsors support groups in many states. Please check it out. DEAR ABBY: Do you think it is fair for me to do all the housework AND pick up dog doo-doo just because I moved into my sister's house with her and her family? They have five dogs and four cats. No one else bothers to do it. I do it to lessen the smell. When I try to say something, they say I am "causing problems." I don't have any animals of my own. -- POOPER SCOOPER DEAR P.S.: I agree that the task of picking up after an animal -- let alone nine of them -- isn't something most people look forward to. However, if you are living rent-free with your sister's family, perhaps you should consider your chores to be your contribution to the household. P.S. Because you mentioned that no one else cleans up the animal messes, consider finding more hygienic living arrangements as soon as it's feasible. DEAR ABBY: We have some friends who take a couple of expensive extended vacations each year. They go to Europe and take cruises. For the last four years, they have never once booked ground transportation from home to the airport and back. Instead, they rely on friends to take them to the airport. They have plenty of money. They are just too cheap to pay for a shuttle, cab or limo. They never offer to put gas in the car or pay for the parking. It is a 45-minute drive in heavy traffic. They are getting ready for another trip. What should I say when asked? Please give me your thoughts on their behavior. -- UNHAPPY ABOUT THIS IN GEORGIA DEAR UNHAPPY: These friends appear to be centered on themselves. Rather than fume about it, the next time you are asked to drive them to the airport, tell them you have a conflict and are unavailable. DEAR ABBY: I am a 47-year-old professional man who loves children, but never had any of my own. Consequently, I have never had to contend with the considerable cost of raising children. Many of my friends are parents, and I feel the urge to buy their kids nice presents I know they want, or that I never received when I was a child, e.g., a wonderful bike or train set. What's the protocol for giving an expensive gift (e.g., a saxophone that can cost $1,000) to non-related children without creating awkwardness or obligation? Naturally, I would always check with the parents first. (All of us are white-collar executives and employed, but no one is "filthy rich.") -- GIFT GIVER IN OAKLAND, CALIF. DEAR GIFT GIVER: The protocol is the one you are already observing, which is to have a conversation with the parents before buying expensive gifts for their children. And when you do, make clear that it is not your wish to cause awkwardness or a sense of obligation. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069 Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Everyone eligible should be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel or employment. Vaccination should be voluntary but those who don't get vaccinated should be frequently tested for COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel and employment. Both vaccination and testing should be voluntary and not required as a condition of long-distance travel or employment. I defer to the judgment of lawmakers as long as they base their decisions on a consensus of medical professionals. Vote View Results India: Wading the rough tides of climate change by Bhavya George May 08,2019 | Source: Research Matters Researchers study how fishermen respond to extreme weather warnings and adapt to ill-effects of climate change. Climate change, the resulting extreme weather events and rising pollution significantly reduce fish population in the oceans and seas. If this trend continues, you may not only miss your favourite seafood, but the livelihood of thousands of fisherfolk would be at risk. So, how do the fishermen cope with climate change and the resulting challenges? In a series of studies, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) shed some light on the strategies they adopt to maintain their fish catch and income, and how they respond to weather warnings, including the factors that affect these decisions. India has 3288 marine fishing villages in the nine coastal states and two union territories. Fisheries and aquaculture contribute to 1.07% of the national gross domestic product (GDP). Hence, understanding the dynamics of the fishing community not only helps secure the thousands depending on it for a livelihood but also frame policies for their betterment. The researchers collected data through previous studies on fisherfolk communities, exploratory fieldwork, focus group discussions and a household survey of 601 fisherfolk from urban, semi-urban and rural fishing regions of Maharashtra. Based on the data gathered, the researchers explored the factors that affect how the fisherfolk respond to weather warnings as well as how their adaptation strategies vary. Unlike previous studies, this research looked at the variations in behaviours across urban, semi-urban and rural fishing communities towards adaptation strategies and reactions to weather warnings. In summary, the researchers found that the following factors play a significant role in how the fisherfolk adapt and respond to weather warnings: a well-connected community, trust on the authorities disseminating weather-related information, the perceived reliability of the weather warning, perception of risk and education level of the fishermen. The researchers also observed that rural fishing communities with strong social bond circulated risk-related information and avoided the loss of life, while urban fishermen adapted to climate change by shifting to mechanised boats. Factors like trade competition and pollution influenced urban and semi-urban fishermen in deciding their adaptation strategies. Towards a sustainable livelihood From their analyses, the researchers identified that fisherfolk use six main adaptation strategies against the changing climate and dwindling catch. These are the use of better fishing gear, like improved boats, use of different types of nets, working extended hours, going farther into the sea than earlier, paying for boat insurance and pursuing other jobs to complement their livelihood. Factors like education, experience in the profession, savings, credits and assets, perception about changes and risks affecting livelihoods, social network and support, and pollution played vital roles in shaping these strategies. The study found that education among fisherfolk provided access to information on fishing, boat insurance and mechanised boats. It is found from our study that highly educated fishermen are better equipped to perceive the changes and also the impact. Education plays a role in fishermens perception of changes in temperature and rain, says Prof Trupti Mishra from IIT Bombay, who led the study. In all the three groupingsurban, semi-urban and ruralsubsidies provided by the government helped adaptation since formal credit is out of reach for most. Hence, the researchers advocate subsidy and credit schemes by public institutions to support the fishing community. Social bonding through friends and community support was strongest among the rural fishing community and acted as a catalyst in designing adaptation strategies. The researchers say that planners and policymakers need to consider this aspect in their schemes for adaptation. The study also found a decrease in the fishing communities trust in the authorities. Interestingly, urban fishermen, who ventured farther into the sea than their rural and semi-rural counterparts, wanted their children to pursue a different livelihood due to the risks associated with fishing. However, the rural and semi-urban fishing communities believed that fishing reflected their cultural identities than just livelihoods, and were reluctant to consider other options. The researchers found that the fishermen recognised marine pollution in terms of plastic waste, various solid debris, oil spills, sewage from nearby cities and effluents from industries. Since solid and sharp debris harm fishing gear and nets, pollution influenced the decisions on using different types of nets and motorised boats. Urban and semi-urban fishermen used multiple nets and motorised boats than their rural counterparts. Trade competition was another decisive factor in shaping the adaptation strategies, the study found. Those who perceived increased competition were more likely to use multiple nets and insure their boats. Compared to rural and semi-urban fishing communities, those in urban areas thought such competition affected their livelihoods negatively. Perception of increasing trade competition is linked to the adoption of multiple types of nets and combining a greater number of strategies to improve fish catch, such as using advanced boats, fishing for longer periods and fishing farther into the sea, asserts Prof. Mishra. Response to weather warnings Extreme weather events, like torrential rains and storms, pose a higher risk to the fishing community as they venture into the sea. Hence, adhering to weather warnings becomes key to saving lives, albeit the fact that not all heed to it. In their study, the researchers found various drivers that shape how fishing communities respond and perceive weather warnings. Factors like the experience of storms and cyclones, the type of boat and its insurance, belief in safety, reliability on indigenous knowledge, trust in the society and local government authorities, social network, regional background, formal education and years of experience in fishing guided their response. Fishermen, who had experienced extreme weather events, or were young, heeded weather warnings for their safety. Nine in ten rural fisherfolk used weather information, while only two in three in semi-urban communities and one in two in urban communities relied on it. Those with boat insurance also heeded to weather warnings to avert risk to property. Fishing communities without social support were more careful and responded to warnings as they did not have a mechanism to absorb the ill effects of extreme weather events. On the other hand, fishermen with years of fishing experience, or those with mechanised boats, did not follow weather warnings. The education levels of these communities did not affect their response or usage of weather information. The study also found that traditional knowledge on cyclone occurrences, gained from experience and beliefs and passed on from generations, were thought to be more reliable and practical. Hence, warning information that includes traditional weather knowledge might make it more familiar and reliable to the fishermen, say the researchers. However, whenever the fisherfolk perceived a higher risk to life and property due to the weather conditions, they mostly heeded warnings. The researchers suggest conducting awareness programs to help communities understand the increase in extreme weather events and the importance of heeding to warnings. Attempts to reduce the trust gap between communities and the information providers through personal interactions and workshops could also help. In the long run, education betters the adaptation decisions and opportunities to choose different livelihoods, say the researchers. The studies highlight how individuals of different fishing communities make decisions and what factors drive these decisions. The findings suggest the need for local government intervention in improving the livelihood of the fishermen across all regional groups. They indicate the importance of government initiatives in providing access to credit and subsidies for the fishing equipment, support in the functioning of cooperatives and provision of public infrastructure like harbours, concludes Ms Krishna Malakar, PhD student at Interdisciplinary Program in Climate Studies, IIT Bombay, who was involved in the study. Odisha: Cyclone Fani: Anger boils over in hungry Puri by Satyasundar Barik May 08,2019 | Source: The Hindu There was visible anger on the streets of Puri on Tuesday with thousands of cyclone-affected people struggling to get food and water four days after cyclone Fani hit the district. Although the Odisha government had said that cooked food was being provided to those who took shelter in different buildings including multi-purpose cyclone shelters, community kitchens opened at most slum areas only on Tuesday. Hundreds of residents of Binova Nagar slum staged a protest at Talabania in Puri, blocking vehicles. As a result, trucks with relief materials were stranded for hours. Lathi-wielding policemen dispersed the protestors. We know this is not the way to register our grievance. But what can one do when small children remain starving? The food material stocked by us was damaged in the cyclone and rain. Despite informing the district administration many times, nobody came to our rescue, said Nilakatha Nayak, a resident of Binova Nagar. The residents of the locality protested twice on Tuesday.The District Collectors official premises witnessed similar scenes. Over 30 women picketed the main gate. Our Jagannath Basti is just four kilometres away from the Collectors office, but relief material is yet to reach us. What can one do with 260 grams of flattened rice and 100 grams of jaggery for a five-member family, Sudasta Behera, a resident of Jagannath Basti, said. The residents were also protesting the governments move to provide additional 50 kg rice and ?2,000 only to families covered by the food security programme in Puri and Khurdha districts. The State government is aloof. It is as if Fani has not affected people who do not have ration cards, said Hemant Chandra Mohanty of Jagannath Basti. Stranded at home Daily wagers were out of cash as they were confined to their houses, taking care of families. If the government provides food for a week, I could go out and arrange to rebuild my thatched house, said Shankar Swain, a resident of Dhobakhol in Talabania area. NGOs including UK-based Khalsa Aid were distributing food to affected people at different locations. Balwant Singh, who took charge of the district collector of Puri on Tuesday, admitted the magnitude of damage was massive. He was appointed district collector of Puri as mobilization for relief and restoration could not pick the pace as was expected. My focus would be to streamline relief operation. Restoration works would be taken up simultaneously, said Mr. Singh. Lawmakers in Taiwan voted on Tuesday to amend existing laws to enforce heavier penalties against anyone locals, Hong Kongers or mainland residents who leak state secrets or spy for Beijing. Previous anti-espionage legislation only targeted Taiwan residents, so the loophole had to be plugged to ensure that people from the mainland, Hong Kong or Macau can also be punished appropriately for spying, according to Taiwans Legislative Yuan. The move comes after a spy from the mainland was arrested and identified as a Peoples Liberation Army intelligence officer. The defendant, surnamed Zhen, reportedly got more than 10 military officers to form a spy ring. But, he only received a four-year jail term from a local court. The new amendment will extend penalties to include the death sentence or life imprisonment for Chinese nationals as well as residents of Hong Kong and Macau who steal Taiwans state or military secrets. Also, amendments to the Criminal Code and the Classified National Security Information Protection Act will extend prison terms to anyone who leaks state secrets to China, Hong Kong, Macau or other hostile foreign forces from three to 10 years, instead of the current penalty of one to seven years. There will also be a two-year jail term for those conspiring to leak secrets. Another amendment to the act will authorize agencies handling confidential information to extend the current three-year travel restriction on former senior leaders and military officers to as long as six years. The background of the extended ban is the travails between the former and the incumbent leaders of the self-ruled island. Shortly after he stepped down in 2016, former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou, of the Beijing-friendly Kuomintang party, was barred at the last minute from leaving the island for Hong Kong, his birthplace, to address an international symposium. Mas successor Tsai Ing-wen, of the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party, insisted the travel restriction was made on national security grounds. But DPP lawmakers who endorsed the bill to further extend the ban said the amendment was not meant to obstruct anyone from visiting a foreign nation, but to bolster national security. Had it not been for the extension, Ma would have already been able to go abroad under the existing legal framework. He said in January during an interview that he hoped to visit China later this year and would not rule out the possibility of meeting Xi Jinping for a second time. The two, in capacities as the party bosses of the KMT and the Communist Party, held a historic meeting in Singapore in November 2015. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde The death penalty debate is back in the news following Gov. Gavin Newsoms recent moratorium on capital punishment. As expected, many Californians are up in arms about the sudden reversal of this raw, hotly contested issue. Proponents claim capital punishment gives victims and their families closure. Is this true? Or does the death penalty create more problems than it solves? Consider revenge. The theme of retribution is timeless, arising from such diverse sources as the Bible, Shakespeare and Quentin Tarantino. It so permeates our thought processes that we barely hear ourselves say, Turnaround is fair play, or Revenge is sweet. Yet a 2008 study conducted by Kevin Carlsmith and published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who punish others in the hopes of making themselves feel better actually feel worse. They end up ruminating about the event far longer than non-avengers. According to Carlsmith, Those who dont have a chance to take revenge are forced, in a sense, to move on and focus on something different. And they feel happier. Executions do not offer emotional catharsis as many would suggest. Brad Bushman of Ohio State University reported in a 2002 study that subjects who were given the opportunity to vent their hostilities had higher levels of aggression and anger than those participants who did nothing at all. The death penalty keeps victims involved in the tragedy for years, even decades, as multiple hearings, appeals and trials drag on. Victims and their families feel stuck in a time warp, being repeatedly re-traumatized by the legal system and accompanying media coverage. Capital punishment does not change the facts of the precipitating event. Research conducted by Scott Vollum at the University of Minnesota showed that executing perpetrators actually increased family members feelings of emptiness because it didnt bring back their loved ones. San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow shared his support for the death penalty after California Gov. Gavin Newsom placed a moratorium on death row executions. "It's the ultimate punishment for the ultimate crime," Dow said. By David Middlecamp A mere 2.5 % of victims family members and friends reported closure following an execution. And 1 in 5 said the execution failed to help them heal at all. A more emotionally satisfying solution seems to be life without possibility of parole. A paper published in 2012 in the Marquette Law Review compared the emotional well-being of survivors in Texas, a death penalty state, and Minnesota, a life without possibility of parole state. Researchers found that victims in Minnesota experienced greater control over the sentencing process, which was successful, predictable and completed within two years after conviction. In contrast, the appeals process in Texas was drawn out, elusive, delayed, and unpredictable, and created layers of injustice, powerlessness, and in some instances, despair for those involved. The authors were quick to point out that Minnesotans experienced acute grief and sorrow due to their traumas. But the criminal justice system allowed survivors control and energy to be put into the present and to be used for personal healing, they found. The debate about capital punishment will no doubt rage on. Instead of proceeding with archaic and inaccurate information, lets consider the data and do what really works best. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde Actor calls for sustained commercial boycott after Brunei puts moratorium on death penalty for gay sex George Clooney has promised to keep up pressure on Brunei after the oil-rich countrys sultan, Hassanal Bolkiah, announced it would not enforce the death penalty for gay sex. Gay sex remains illegal in Brunei, punishable by up to 10 years in jail. Clooney said the moratorium on executions was a huge step forward after a giant leap backwards, but that the law to stone their citizens is still in place. He added: For my family and me, we simply cant walk away until this draconian law is no longer on the books. Clooney led the international outcry against Bruneis ruling, which incorporated Islamic laws, or sharia, into the national penal code. The measures were published in 2013, and the introduction of the death penalty by stoning for adultery and gay sex was announced on 3 April. The actor first called for a boycott of hotels owned by Brunei as well as appealing to the banks, the financiers and the institutions that do business with them and choose to look the other way. "It sends a very crucial message to countries like Indonesia and Malaysia" The United Nations has condemned the law. Celebrities including Elton John and Ellen DeGeneres joined in the outcry, while the UKs Health and Safety Executive and the Police Federation of England and Wales suspended links with the country. FIND related content Having defended the introduction of the law in a letter to the European parliament, Brunei announced that the death penalty moratorium would be extended.related content here In a speech, the sultan said: I am aware that there are many questions and misperceptions with regard to the implementation of the [sharia penal code order]. However, we believe that once these have been cleared, the merit of the law will be evident. Clooney responded by saying: It sends a very crucial message to countries like Indonesia and Malaysia that there is a cost for enacting these laws. And the cost isnt folks boycotting their hotels. The cost is that corporations and big banks wont do business with you. The financial institutions stepping up had a huge impact. Having said that, the law to stone their citizens is still in place. As soon as the pressure dies down they could simply start the process of carrying out executions. So in reference to the boycott, everyone should do what they feel is correct. | Report an error, an omission, a typo; suggest a story or a new angle to an existing story; submit a piece, a comment; recommend a resource; contact the webmaster, contact us: deathpenaltynews@gmail.com Opposed to Capital Punishment? Help us keep this blog up and running! DONATE! "One is absolutely sickened, not by the crimes that the wicked have committed, but by the punishments that the good have inflicted." -- Oscar Wilde The Benton County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday got a progress report on the county climate action plan, and the results to date are something of a mixed bag. The good news is that county government is making headway on reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, the primary drivers of global warming, in several important areas. The bad news is that the county is still struggling to develop a complete picture of greenhouse gas emissions from all departments so it can accurately measure progress toward its reduction goals. Sean McGuire, the county's sustainability program lead, and climate action intern Kali Lamont began their Power Point presentation at the board's Tuesday morning work session by pointing out some of the tangible impacts of climate change in the mid-valley, such as last month's floods and the increasingly severe allergy seasons afflicting area residents. "This isn't something abstract, this isn't something ethereal," McGuire told the commissioners. "This is hitting us right now." The Benton County Climate Action Plan was adopted by the board last September with a goal of slashing county government's greenhouse gas emissions to 75 percent below 1990 levels by the year 2050. One of the first steps taken toward that goal was to begin tracking the county's emissions, using a tool developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, from its use of electricity, natural gas, fleet fuel and water. (While water itself does not emit greenhouse gases, there are emissions related to transporting, pumping and processing it.) According to McGuire and Lamont's numbers, the county's greenhouse gas emissions peaked at 2,058 metric tons in 2005, then trended downward for the next eight years or so before spiking back up to 2,025 metric tons in 2016. Since then, they said, the numbers have begun another downward trend, dipping to 1,883 metric tons last year, a 6.98% decrease in that two-year period. That downward trend is expected to continue, they added, in part because of measures such as converting Benton County Sheriffs Office vehicles to run on propane and replacing boilers in county buildings that run on oil with gas-fired boilers. Steps like these, they said, will continue to pay dividends into the future. Natural gas creates 27% fewer emissions than oil-burning boilers do, Lamont said. That switch from oil to natural gas is reducing our overall greenhouse gas emissions. McGuire and Lamont also outlined plans for a project that would lower emissions at county facilities still further. Part of the project involves purchasing $5,000 worth of renewably generated electricity through Pacific Powers Blue Sky program for the countys Sunset Building, which would reduce the buildings greenhouse gas emissions by 34% over a two-year span. Participating in the Blue Sky program would also strengthen the countys position in applying for grants to install solar panels at Sunset and other county buildings, McGuire and Lamont argued, a move that would cut emissions at those facilities still further. County leaders at the work session praised McGuire and Lamont for their work on the project, but they also asked for more specifics. Benton County Administrator Joe Kerby, for instance, wanted detailed explanations for some of the year-to-year fluctuations in the countys emissions levels. McGuire said that may not be possible in many cases simply because the county wasnt tracking a lot of this type of data before the advent of the climate action plan. Now that the plan is in place, however, most county departments are doing a much better job in that regard. Its been a real challenge for us, McGuire said. I think this is a real turning point. Another big gap in the countys emissions data is the fact that little or no information is available regarding the Benton County Fairgrounds and the Natural Areas and Parks Department. Theres a lot of electricity use over at the fairgrounds, Commissioner Annabelle Jaramillo noted. McGuire said he hopes to have tracking systems for those departments in place sometime soon. And theres one more glaring hole in the countys data: Theres no way to go back and measure exactly what the countys greenhouse gas emissions were in 1990, making it impossible to precisely quantify the target reduction level that the county is trying to reach. McGuire said the county chose that target in part to align with greenhouse gas reduction targets adopted by other jurisdictions, including the city of Corvallis, and because that year was used in the Kyoto Protocols, a set of international accords aimed at curbing the effects of climate change. After the work session, McGuire said the lack of specific emissions data from that time frame is a common problem for other jurisdictions that have adopted greenhouse gas reduction goals, but those levels can be approximated by extrapolating backward from current levels. Theres different ways of having a goal, he said. This way we are committed as a county to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. Reporter Bennett Hall can be reached at 541-758-9529 or bennett.hall@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter at @bennetthallgt. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A Lebanon murder suspect was arraigned in Linn County Circuit Court on Tuesday on an indictment that included new charges first-degree burglary, and two additional counts of aggravated murder. Brenton Wade Richmond, 49, now faces four counts of aggravated murder for the deaths of Tammy Hopper and Erik Jacobs in February in Lebanon. Richmond pleaded not guilty to all of the charges through his attorney, Geoffrey Gokey. The additional murder counts were based on the shootings occurring during the burglary, according to the charging document. Tuesdays hearing was brief, lasting about 10 minutes, and most of the discussion centered around deadlines in the case. The prosecutions evidence needs to be given to Richmonds defense team by June 19. Motions in the case are due by July 19, and the states response to those motions has a deadline of Aug. 19. Gokey mentioned potential search issues in the case. A status check hearing also was set for June 27. We can set deadlines now, and theyre always subject to change if theres good cause, but Id like to have some sort of schedule, said Judge David Delsman. Hopper and Jacobs were dating and they were killed in Hoppers Lebanon home in the 200 block of Shannon Place on or about Feb. 7. Richmond was Hoppers ex-boyfriend, and the two had dated on and off for about nine years. About two weeks prior, Richmond had threatened to kill Hopper and any man she was dating, according to court paperwork. The bodies of Hopper and Jacobs were found on Feb. 9 after a family member became suspicious when Hopper wouldnt respond to phone calls or texts. On Feb. 10, Richmond was detained when he presented his passport to a customs officer as he was entering Mexico on foot. Richmond had been issued a concealed handgun license by the Linn County Sheriffs Office in January. According to Oregons online court database, Richmond has no criminal history. However, he has had previous run-ins with law enforcement. In 2002, while still a Lebanon Police Department officer, Richmond was involved in a SWAT team standoff in Lebanon after he reportedly threatened to commit suicide. He was ultimately not charged in the incident, the Albany Democrat-Herald reported at the time, because prosecutors determined he had only presented a threat to himself. Richmond, who had been a Lebanon Police Department officer for about eight years, resigned from the agency later that year. He is the son of former Lebanon Police Department Chief Walt Richmond. In 2003, Richmond was arrested by Lebanon police after he reportedly fired a handgun in his house. The incident allegedly began when his ex-wife went to his home to pick up their children after a visitation. According to a Lebanon Police Department supervisor at the time, Richmond did not want the children to leave and took the youngest into his house. After officers made several contacts with Richmond, he let the child leave. The gunshot occurred as officers were getting ready to leave the house, the supervisor told the Democrat-Herald. Kyle Odegard can be reached at kyle.odegard@lee.net, 541-812-6077 or via Twitter @KyleOdegard. Love 0 Funny 4 Wow 0 Sad 2 Angry 8 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Oregon State University Board of Trustees has selected a 15-person search committee to help select a successor for President Ed Ray, who has announced plans to step down in June 2020 after 17 years in the job. The committee includes OSU trustees, faculty, students, administrators, staff and alumni, as well as representatives of higher education and community members. Darry Callahan, an OSU alumnus and member of the Board of Trustees, will chair the committee. The board expects to choose the new president by December. In addition to Callahan, the committee members are: Safi Ahmad, student in the College of Engineering and chair-elect of the ASOSU student fee committee. Charlene Alexander, OSU vice president and chief diversity officer. Patty Bedient, trustee, former Weyerhaeuser Co. chief financial officer and executive vice president and OSU alumna. Beatriz Botello, SNAP-Ed education program assistant in the Lincoln County office of OSU Extension Service. Elsie Charles, OSU-Cascades student in the College of Liberal Arts. Roy Haggerty, dean of the College of Science and professor of environmental geology in the College of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. Danny Jacobs, president of Oregon Health & Science University. Julie Manning, trustee; Samaritan Health Services, vice president of marketing, public relations, and community health promotion, and former Corvallis mayor. Jim Moorefield, former executive director of Willamette Neighborhood Housing Services and former Corvallis city councilor. Tuba Ozkan-Haller, associate vice president for OSU Research Administration and Development; professor of geology and geophysics in the College of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences; and committee search advocate. Dwaine Plaza, professor of sociology in the College of Liberal Arts and president-elect of the OSU Faculty Senate. Preston Pulliams, trustee, president of Gold Hill Associates, and former president of Portland Community College. John Stirek, chair-elect of the OSU Foundation Board of Trustees; president of western operations for Trammell Crow Co.; and OSU alumnus Amy Watson, assistant professor of marketing, College of Business at OSU-Cascades. Debbie Colbert, secretary of the OSU Board of Trustees, will staff the search committee. Zach Smith and Suzanne Teer, consultants with Witt/Kieffer Executive Search, will provide professional assistance. OSUs Board of Trustees has launched a website to gather input on the search process at https://leadership.oregonstate.edu/presidentialsearch/searchprocess. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. LINN COUNTY SHERIFF Missing motorcycle 8:13 a.m. Monday, 23000 block Peoria Road, Harrisburg. A caller reported the theft of a Kawasaki motorcycle (value: $4,500) between 10 p.m. Sunday and 8 a.m. Monday. Abandoned boat 3:59 p.m. Monday, 34000 block Tennessee Road, Lebanon. A caller reported finding an abandoned boat on the riverbank. Broken window 4:30 p.m. Monday, 39000 block Ridge Drive. A caller reported a broken rear window on a truck parked in front of a home. Loss value: $1,900. Abandoned safe 5:04 p.m. Monday, 38000 block Griggs Drive, Lebanon. A caller reported finding a small safe in a creek. Sparking blazes 5:41 p.m. Monday, 32000 block Diamond Hill, near Coburg. A deputy responded to reports of a vehicle dragging something that was causing sparks and igniting grass fires in ditches. A deputy used a fire extinguisher to put out several fires until Harrisburg Fire Department arrived on scene and secured the area. The suspect vehicle was not located. Bad attitude 9 p.m. Monday, 3600 block Spicer Road. A juvenile was taken into custody for harassment after reportedly striking his mother in the face. LINN COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT Assault From Friday morning. Michael Anthony Weaver, 30, of Mill City, was charged with second-degree assault. His bail was set at $50,000 by Judge Thomas McHill. The crime allegedly occurred on Sept. 22 and the Albany Police Department investigated the case. According to Albany Police Department logs, the assault occurred at a downtown bar and Weaver reportedly tussled with security at the establishment, as well. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. It remains one of the big questions stalking this legislative session, just as it has stalked previous sessions: What should the state do about its underfunded public pension system? But there could be a big difference this year: If this year's Legislature isn't able to approve some sort of reforms to the Public Employees Retirement System, the issue may well end up before voters in November 2020, in what almost certainly would be a hotly contested and bruising campaign over a number of PERS ballot measures. That campaign could follow on the heels of another initiative effort: If the Legislature is able to pass a proposed $1 billion annual tax on certain Oregon businesses (which assumes that Senate Democrats somehow are able to lure enough Republicans back to the chamber to achieve a quorum), it's a good bet that voters will get a chance to reject the tax. It's a potential one-two punch at the ballot that could make the heated 2016 battle over Measure 97, another proposed business tax, look like child's play. (Supporters and foes of that measure spent more than $42 million, easily setting a record for the costliest campaign in state history.) With that said, though, it only makes sense to connect the two issues. After all, the issues have been linked throughout the session, with the state's largest business organization, Oregon Business & Industry, saying it would remain neutral on the proposed business tax but only if legislators also pursued reforms to PERS. The worry is that, without those reforms, rising premiums for PERS would eat away an increasingly large chunk of that revenue, which right now is earmarked for K-12 education. Speaker of the House Tina Kotek and Senate President Peter Courtney have said they have PERS reforms in mind, but have yet to offer details. In the meantime, Gov. Kate Brown has proposed plans to divert various state revenue streams into an attempt to reduce the $27 billion unfunded liability in PERS. She also has suggested limiting tax rebates and requiring public employees to contribute to their pension benefits. To some degree, Brown's proposals echo the four ballot measures being proposed by Oregon business groups. Those measures would, in part, establish a 401(k) program for new or existing state employees, require employee contributions to the pension fund and bar the state from taking on new pension debt. Public employee unions already have denounced these proposals, but they may be swimming against the tide to some extent, if you can believe the results of a new poll from DHM Research of Portland. (Ted Sickinger of The Oregonian, whose reporting on PERS continues to be essential, wrote about the poll in a weekend story.) The poll, which DHM said it paid for itself, found substantial support for making changes to PERS, including replacing the current pension system with a 401(k) plan and requiring contributions from employees. Some two-thirds of voters rejected the idea of making no changes to PERS. The poll drew criticism, as you would expect, from officials with public employee unions, who took issue with the way the questions were phrased. It would have been better, the unions said, if it had asked whether public employees should take a cut to their pay or benefits in order to deal with the pension debt. But all parties agreed that an election campaign over proposed PERS reforms would be costly and potentially quite nasty. That's part of the reason why Tim Nesbitt, a former labor leader who has been consulting with business groups about PERS for years, is hoping to see the Legislature take action this session on the pension system. "Everybody's first desire is for a legislative solution," Nesbitt told The Oregonian. Indeed. So it's up to the Legislature to take action, and the pressure for state leaders to do so likely only will mount as the clock ticks down the days until adjournment. (mm) Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 7 It is so very bizarre to see the continued blindness, denial, ignoring all evidence and willful denial of the corruption of DT and his staff. Even their latest actions in the handling of the Mueller report shouts "cover-up" in neon lights, but some folk just can't accept that. Within two days of getting a 400 page report, Barr created a four-page memo saying that all was well! Would anyone create a 400-page report to say that there weren't any problems? Of course not! Then, ignoring Congress for weeks, he consulted with White House Lawyers about what to release and how to say it. Is that the act of someone defending our country and democracy? No, it's exactly like the act of a crony of a corrupt person. And he is not meeting with the House or releasing more information from the report. If DT is innocent, wouldn't they want to prove it to everyone? Two fundraising efforts have been launched to help the family of a local farmer and former Oregon State Police trooper who died in a farm accident on Saturday. The Santiam Christian School board of directors has set up a scholarship fund to assist in the education of Kirk Burkholder's three children, said board member emeritus Howard Ropp. Burkholder, a Santiam Christian graduate, leaves behind his wife, Amanda, and their children, ages 7, 5, and 3. Those contributions should be made directly to Santiam Christian School, with a notation directing the funds to the Burkholder account, Ropp said. "I hope to see the account make it so the kids can finish their schooling at Santiam Christian, so Amanda doesn't have to worry about where the funds for their education are coming from," Ropp said. A second account, on the fundraising site, GoFundMe, account has been set up to support Amanda Burkholder and her family's personal needs. "We created the GoFundMe at the request of several individuals looking for a way to support Amanda and her family," said Katie Boshart Glaser, a friend of the couple and a member of the Fairview Mennonite Church, where the Burkholders attended. "Kirk was the sole provider for them," Boshart added. "The money raised will help give a measure of relief during this time of processing and grief." A funeral for the 38-year-old Burkholder is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Fairview Mennonite Church, 35100 Goltra Road SE in Albany. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 4 Angry 1 But I dont want to go among mad people," Alice remarked. "Oh, you cant help that," said the Cat: "were all mad here. Im mad. Youre mad." "How do you know Im mad?" said Alice. "You must be," said the Cat, "or you wouldnt have come here. Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland With freedom comes responsibility. Eleanor Roosevelt 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 Trump's Twitter Assault by Nancy Ohanian Washington Post fact checkers-- day in and day out... often in writing on Twitter! Americans hate the lies and the tweeting and the gaslighting. Even his own supporters don't like these things. Today we have the biggest liar in the history of American politics sitting in the Oval Office lying his office off-- 10,000 official lies so far, according to thefact checkers-- day in and day out... often in writing on Twitter! Americans hate the lies and the tweeting and the gaslighting. Even his own supporters don't like these things. Even if they wanted to, the Democrats couldn't find as big a liar. But the Democrats always try to keep the lesser-of-two-evils box for voters as close as they can. So they found the biggest liar they could to run. Yes, that's fumbling, bumbling Status Quo Joe Biden. The Intercept wrote a piece about Yesterday Lee Fang and Andrew Perez, reporting forwrote a piece about how Biden is already lying about getting special interest PAC money. Biden pledged he wouldn't take money from lobbyists and corporate PACs but he's already gobbled up over $30,000 from... lobbyists and corporate PACs. The little trick is that he doesn't have his crooked fat-cat supporters into his pockets but puts the legalistic bribes through Biden's American Possibilities PAC. "Biden," they wrote, "has a history of relying on lobbyists to assist his campaigns. Lobbyists donated more than $200,000 to Bidens 2008 presidential run. That year, William Oldaker-- a political consultant and lawyer with whom Bidens son, Hunter, once worked as a lobbyist-- served as Bidens legal adviser. Biden's PAC has already taken big money from these four sleaze bags: John Breaux, a former Democratic senator from Louisiana and senior counsel at Squire Patton Boggs, is registered to represent the kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Hes also lobbied for health insurance giant UnitedHealth Group, Shell Oil, and aerospace company SpaceX. Todd Webster, a senior vice president at Cornerstone Government Affairs, served as chief of staff to Bidens successor, Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del. He lobbies for a handful of Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, Citigroup, Google, Microsoft, and Cheniere Energy. John Bentivoglio, a partner at Skadden Arps and former top Biden staffer on the Senate Judiciary Committee, is registered to lobby for Strongbridge Biopharma on drug-pricing issues. Tonio Burgos, a longtime aide to New York Gov. Mario Cuomo who runs the lobbying and public affairs firm Tonio Burgos & Associates and has lobbied for Neurological Surgery, P.C.; his firm has also represented Team Select Home Care, a home health care provider. They also reported that "Biden, for his part, has long been aware of how big-money interests can affect politics. 'It costs a great deal of money to run,' Biden said way back in 1974. 'You have to go to those people who have money. And they always want something.'" OK, he lied about that. Yes, he did... but he lies about everything-- mostly because he's an idiot rather than a conscious deceiver or gaslighter... I think. Monday, PolitiFact, which talks about Trump's flow of lies constantly, branded Biden a liar as well. This particular Biden lie was his bullshit claim to having been a progressive in the Senate, which he never was. He was always a conservative Democrat. Since his best friends in the Senate-- neo-fascists and racist scum like Jesse Helms (R-NC) and Strom Thurmond (R-SC)-- were so far to the right, Biden feels that made him look like a "moderate" or even a progressive. PolitiFact proved he's just a liar. Long seen as his Achilles heel in this Democratic primary, Bidens 35-year Senate voting record reveals a history of breaking with liberal orthodoxy on a variety of issues, from his vote to authorize the Iraq War to his backing of measures that led to mass incarceration. Biden, in a recent interview, sought to turn the narrative on its head by claiming progressive credentials. "I was always labeled as one of the most liberal members of the United States Congress," the former Delaware senator told ABC News in an interview that aired May 1. After a review of sources that grade lawmakers based on ideology, we found Bidens claim to be inaccurate. PolitiFact describes conservative Democrats, inaccurately, as "moderates," which is what they labeled Biden: "By a variety of measures, Bidens record has been that of a moderate Democrat." The opposite of a progressive is a conservative not a moderate. Examining the work of several organizations that keep track of voting records, bill sponsorships, etc. PolitiFact stated that "its misleading for Biden to claim he was always labeled one of the most liberal members." Vietnam Airlines plans to buy 50 narrow-body aircraft between 2021 and 2025. Photo by Shutterstock/Huy Thoa The government plans to sell a 35 percent stake in Vietnam Airlines to reduce its ownership to 51 percent. The carriers shares were listed on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange Tuesday after moving from UPCoM, or the Unlisted Public Company Market. It closed the session with a market capitalization of VND57 trillion ($2.45 billion). Nguyen Hoang Anh, chairman of the Committee for Management of State Capital at Enterprises (CMSC), told VnExpress the move to HoSE would facilitate the governments divestment from the airline and help attract large investors. The CMSC has instructed Vietnam Airlines to draw up a divestment roadmap for 2019-20 enabling the state to sell 35.19 percent out of its current 86.19 percent stake, he added. Without elaborating, Vietnam Airlines chairman Pham Ngoc Minh said plans have been completed and sent to competent authorities for approval. The carrier is also planning to make private placements to large investors. It has a strategic partnership with ANA Holdings, a Japanese aviation corporation which holds an 8.77 percent stake in it, for services with the aim of becoming a five-star airline. Minh said the company is looking for other similar investors for other areas of expertise. In the first quarter of this year Vietnam Airlines reported nearly VND26 trillion ($1.12 billion) in consolidated revenues, up 4.7 percent from the same period last year, and consolidated pre-tax profits of nearly VND1.58 trillion, up 10.5 percent. It has said in its latest financial report that it plans to buy 50 narrow-body aircraft between 2021 and 2025 and seek shareholders approval to sell five A321 CEOs produced in 2004 and 2005. It plans to renew its fleet, replacing aircraft that are more than 12 years old. Vietnam Airlines plans to acquire 50-75 new aircraft by 2025. Photo by Shutterstock/Vytautas Kielaitis National flag carrier plans to get between 50 and 75 narrow-body aircraft; says large orders will be more cost-effective. The state-owned airlines notice to shareholders says it will acquire 50 new narrow-body aircraft by buying or leasing them and 10 backup engines in the period 2021-2025. The number of aircraft could rise to 75 depending on market demand, the carrier said. It is considering a number of options, including the Airbus A320 family and the Boeing 737 MAX family. The airline said large orders would give it an advantage in price negotiations and other post-purchase benefits such as technical maintenance, parts and advertisement. The new aircraft are likely to contribute 40 percent of the airlines estimated pretax profit of VND3.6 trillion ($154.8 million) by 2025. It plans to raise shareholders equity by 32 percent to VND29.4 trillion ($1.26 billion) by 2025 to keep the debt-to-equity ratio under 3. Vietnam Airlines currently has a fleet of 61 narrow-body and 33 wide-body aircraft. Twenty-six of them will see their lease expiring or be sold by 2021. Last year the airline carried 21.9 million passengers, or 44 percent of the total number on all Vietnamese carriers, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam. It targets 13.7 percent growth this year. Vietnams tourism boom means airlines are scrambling to invest in fleet expansion. Private airline Bamboo Airways wants to operate 40 aircraft this year, but the plan has hit a roadblock with Vietnams aviation authorities unsure of its management capabilities. Budget carrier Vietjet in February signed a deal with Boeing to buy 100 new narrow-body 737 MAX airplanes for $12.7 billion. Inspired by similar campaigns in other countries, Make in Vietnam seeks to establish 100,000 tech firms by 2030. "Make in Vietnam" is an initiative of the Ministry of Information and Communications to promote IT development in the country. Photo by Reuters This is double the current tally of 50,000 tech firms. An initiative of the Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) to promote the technology industry in Vietnam, 'Make in Vietnam' takes its inspiration from "Made in China 2025", "Make in India," "Made in Japan" and other campaigns. In promoting the establishment of 100,000 tech firms, the aim is to take Vietnam into the top 30 countries in information technology development. The "Make in Vietnam" slogan has attracted a great deal of attention at a press conference on Monday prior to the National Forum on Developing Vietnam Technology Companies. On Thursday, May 9, the forum, with this slogan a major highlight, will take place at the National Convention Center in Hanoi. "Since late last year, the ministry has considered having a slogan for the country's ICT industry. The phrase 'Made in Vietnam' literally means 'Produced in Vietnam'. It is in the past tense, while 'Make in Vietnam' indicates Vietnamese people proactively, creatively designing and producing products that contribute to the technology community," said To Thi Thu Huong, deputy director of the MoIC's Information Technology Department (MIC). Organized by the MoIC and VnExpress, the event will gather more than 1,000 government representatives, corporate leaders and experts. They will discuss and exchange ideas on how to make Vietnam a technological powerhouse. Commenting on the nations potential, Phan Tam, MoIC Deputy Minister, said: "Vietnam can completely create cheap industrial products like Korea and Taiwan on the spot." In 2018, Vietnams IT industry earned an estimated revenue of $98.9 billion, with the main earners being the hardware - electronics industry ($88 billion), software industry ($4.3 billion), IT services ($5.7 billion) and digital content industry ($800 million). The industry contributed nearly VND50 trillion ($2.14 billion) to the state budget last year, creating jobs for more than a million workers. According to World Trade Organization (WTO), Vietnam ranks second in the world in manufacturing of office equipment and smart phones. It also ranks among the top 10 attractive countries in the Asia-Pacific region and top 30 in the world for software outsourcing. Thursdays conference is sponsored by VNG, BE GROUP, VCCorp, VSmart, CMC Group, MISA, MobiFone, SaigonTourist, and MK Group. Vietnams Party chief and President Nguyen Phu Trong speaks at a meeting with the Ministry of National Defense on January 7. Photo by Vietnam News Agency The health of Party chief and President Nguyen Phu Trong has improved and hell back to work soon, HCMC leader says. The president, party's general secretary is suffering from some health issues but his condition is improving, HCMC Party Secretary Nguyen Thien Nhan said Tuesday at a meeting with the citys constituents. "Each person has a different health recovery rate; therefore, its impossible to give an exact time. I believe the president, party general secretary will come back to work soon," Nhan said. A similar message had been relayed earlier by foreign ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang, who said last month heavy workload and weather conditions had affected Trongs health, but he would return to work soon. National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan also confirmed during a meeting with constituents in the Mekong Delta City of Can Tho on Saturday that Trong will be back to normal work soon. Trongs absence at the funeral of former President Le Duc Anh last Friday had sparked public concern over his health, though he headed the state funeral organizing committee. He was also absent during a meeting with constituents in Hanoi on Saturday. Meetings with constituents are led by top officials in Vietnam ahead of every major meeting of the legislative National Assembly, which will gather next on May 20. Trong and his entourage had paid a visit to the southern province of Kien Giang on April 13-14, when they discussed with local authorities the implementation of socio-economic, security and national defense tasks. He had worked outdoors in scorching heat of 38 degrees Celcius. In October last year, Trong, 75, became the first person after Ho Chi Minh to simultaneously head the Party and executive branches of governance in Vietnam. Over the past three years, a sweeping corruption crackdown spearheaded by Trong has ensnared scores of high-profile officials and businesspersons. Last year, a large number of officials, including military officers and businesspeople faced criminal charges for mismanagement of military land. Vietnamese woman Doan Thi Huong (R) arrives at Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi, May 3, 2019. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy The Vietnamese woman who accepted a plea bargain to escape a murder charge may be banned from reentering Malaysia. "Doan Thi Huong could be banned from coming back to Malaysia because she has been convicted," Salim Bashir, one of Huongs lawyers, told VnExpress. Huong was found guilty in the 2017 assassination of a North Korean man who is believed to be the North Korean leader's half-brother Kim Jong-nam. Bashir said that under the Malaysian Immigration Act, a person who was convicted and deported is not allowed to return to Malaysia indefinitely, except with permission from Malaysias Minister of Justice. After a trial that lasted more than two years, Huong was freed from prison last Friday and returned home the same night. Huong, 31, and her co-accused, Indonesian woman Siti Aisyah, 26, were accused of killing Kim by smearing his face with VX poison, a banned chemical weapon, at the Kuala Lumpur airport in February 2017. Both women consistently denied the murder charge, saying they had been tricked by some North Koreans into carrying out the brazen killing that shocked the world. At the trial court on April 1, Huong, a hair salon worker in Vietnam, pleaded guilty under a plea bargain to the new charge of "purposely causing injury" to Kim by employing "dangerous means." She was sentenced to three years and four months in prison effective from the date of her arrest in February 2017, and also got time taken off for good behavior. The original murder charge levied against her carries a mandatory death penalty in Malaysia. Vietnam and Malaysia have not signed a judicial agreement, but the ASEAN community goes by a mutual understanding of recognizing each other's practices and respecting the judicial activities of member countries. The decision to discharge Huong from prison came after authorities dropped murder charges against her. With Huongs escape, no one faces murder charges for the February 2017 killing of Kim. Lawyers for both women presented them as scapegoats and argued that the real masterminds were four North Koreans accused alongside them, who fled Malaysia shortly after the murder. By Axel Reiserer The EBRD's Green Trade Facilitation Programme (Green TFP) has recognised the most successful banks under the programme by presenting them with awards for their performance in 2018. The Green TFP allows partner banks under the EBRD's Trade Facilitation Programme (TFP) to use their existing TFP facilities for the financing of exports, imports and the local distribution of imported green technologies and services, in line with the EBRD's Green Economy Transition (GET) approach. The prize for the Most Active Issuing Bank in 2018 - Green Trade went to Raiffeisen Bank Aval Ukraine. The bank facilitated the highest number of transactions, most of them in the agribusiness sector, with an impact equivalent to annual energy savings of 18,514 MWh, the equivalent of one-year public lighting in Kherson, a city with 250,000 inhabitants. The prize for the Most Active Confirming Bank in 2018 - Green Trade was awarded to UniCredit. The bank successfully supported the highest number of transactions under Green TFP as a confirming bank with an impact equivalent to annual energy savings of 10,235 MWh, the equivalent of year-long charging of 1,741 electric cars. The prize for Deal of the Year - Green Trade was awarded jointly to Converse Bank (Armenia) and KBC Bank (Belgium) for a transaction involving an Armenian greenhouse grower of strawberries, supporting private entrepreneurship in the country with the help of a local bank. The environmental impact was equivalent to annual energy savings of 17,281 MWh, the equivalent of 29,270 car trips between Brussels and Yerevan. Francis Malige, EBRD Managing Director for Financial Institutions said: "The EBRD's commitment to sustainable economies comes in different shapes and forms, but in only one colour - green. And we could not do this without our partners. We are proud today to honour for the first time issuing and confirming banks that have shown an outstanding commitment to green trade. Trade in energy efficiency, water efficiency, renewable energy and climate resilience technologies is very important for the EBRD regions and contributes to the EBRD's commitment to support sustainable investments." Since the Green TFP was introduced in 2016, the EBRD supported more than 425 million in green trade financing. Almost 600 Green TFP transactions have been financed in 15 EBRD countries of operations, resulting in annual energy savings of 733,130 MWh, water savings of 1,618,025 m3 and emission reductions of 310,728 tonnes CO2 equivalent. Notable transactions include: the import of solar cells from Italy to the Kyrgyz Republic for the production of solar panels the export of water treatment equipment from Greece to Egypt the import of agricultural machinery and equipment from Austria to Moldova, and from France to Ukraine. The EBRD's Trade Finance Programme (TFP), launched in 1999, aims to promote foreign trade to, from and among the countries in which the EBRD invests. Through the programme, the EBRD provides guarantees to international confirming banks and short-term loans to selected banks and factoring companies for on-lending to local exporters, importers and distributors. The EBRD's TFP currently includes over 100 partner banks in 28 countries where the EBRD invests, with limits exceeding 1.5 billion in total and more than 800 confirming banks worldwide. Read the full story. A Nuclear Regulatory Commission Atomic Safety and Licensing Board has denied requests by several petitioners to hold an evidentiary hearing challenging Holtec International's license application to construct and operate a consolidated interim storage facility for spent nuclear fuel in southeastern New Mexico. The three-judge board held oral arguments in Albuquerque in January on the standing of the various petitioners and the admissibility of their proposed contentions under NRC regulations. While the judges agreed that some of the six petitioners met the qualifications for standing, they concluded the nearly 50 contentions raised were not admissible for an evidentiary hearing. The judges held that the contentions either were not relevant to the application or did not establish a genuine dispute with aspects of the application. The NRC's hearing process allows interested parties who might be affected by a proposed licensing action to challenge the application on technical (safety) or environmental grounds. Most hearings are conducted by licensing boards appointed from the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel, a group of administrative judges independent of the NRC staff. Board rulings may be appealed to the Commission. Holtec, a vendor of dry cask storage systems, has proposed to store spent nuclear fuel from the nation's commercial nuclear power plants at a facility in Lea County, in the southeastern corner of New Mexico. Hearing petitions were filed by Beyond Nuclear, the Sierra Club and the Fasken Land and Minerals and Permian Basin Land and Royalty Owners, which were granted standing. Two other petitioners - a coalition of several different organizations and NAC International, a rival dry storage cask vendor - were denied standing. The standing of a sixth petitioner, the Alliance for Environmental Strategies, was not decided. The board's ruling, issued May 7, is available on the NRC's Electronic Hearing Docket on the agency website, under Holtec International 72-1051. CONTACT: David McIntyre, 301-415-8205 Ensign Natural Resources LLC ("Ensign" or the "Company"), an exploration and production company focused on acquiring, developing and producing U.S. unconventional resources, today (5/7) announced the purchase of Eagle Ford acreage in South Texas from Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc. The transaction includes approximately 59,000 net acres in Bee, DeWitt, Karnes, Lavaca and Live Oak Counties and current net production of approximately 14,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day. "We are excited to announce our first acquisition. These assets include both meaningful existing production and years of attractive drilling inventory," said Brett Pennington, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ensign. "We will continue to evaluate additional acquisition opportunities in the Eagle Ford and look forward to working with our equity sponsors to create value." Ensign was formed in late 2017 in partnership with Warburg Pincus, a private equity firm focused on growth investing. As part of this transaction, the Company has also secured an equity commitment from the Kayne Private Energy Income Funds, an investment platform dedicated to partnering with high caliber management teams to acquire and develop large producing oil and gas assets in North America. BMO Capital Markets acted as exclusive financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal counsel to Ensign. In addition, BMO Capital Markets, along with Citigroup Global Markets Inc., provided an underwritten commitment for debt financing as part of the acquisition. About Ensign Natural Resources The Company is an exploration and production company operating in the Eagle Ford Shale ("EFS") in South Texas. The Company is focused on making disciplined investments, continuously improving and applying modern technology. CEO Brett Pennington, the former SVP of Onshore at Murphy Oil, is joined by a management team experienced in finding, developing and exploiting unconventional assets. Ensign is funded through Warburg Pincus and the Kayne Private Energy Income Funds platform. About Warburg Pincus Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global private equity firm focused on growth investing. The firm has more than $58 billion in private equity assets under management. The firm's active portfolio of more than 180 companies is highly diversified by stage, sector and geography. Warburg Pincus is an experienced partner to management teams seeking to build durable companies with sustainable value. Founded in 1966, Warburg Pincus has raised 18 private equity funds, which have invested more than $74 billion in over 860 companies in more than 40 countries. The firm is headquartered in New York with offices in Amsterdam, Beijing, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Mauritius, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Shanghai and Singapore. For more information please visit www.warburgpincus.com. About Kayne Anderson Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors, L.P., founded in 1984, is a leading alternative investment management firm focused on energy, infrastructure, real estate, credit, and growth equity. Kayne's investment philosophy is to pursue niches, with an emphasis on cash flow, where its knowledge and sourcing advantages enable it to deliver above average, risk-adjusted investment returns. As responsible stewards of capital, Kayne's philosophy extends to promoting responsible investment practices and sustainable business practices to create long-term value for its investors. Kayne manages approximately $30 billion in assets for institutional investors, family offices, high net worth and retail clients and employs 350 professionals in five offices across the U.S. The Kayne Private Energy Income Funds platform is part of Kayne's successful energy private equity practice that has raised over $8 billion since 1998. The strategy was formed in late 2014 to take advantage of the market opportunity to acquire and develop large, long-life producing oil and gas assets in North America. For more information please visit www.kaynecapital.com. Contact: Sarah McGrath (212) 878-6378 sarah.mcgrath@warburgpincus.com Swedish solar energy technology leader Midsummer has decided to support a charity school project in the rural Matopos area of southern Zimbabwe. In cooperation with the Paul & Eszter Karaszi Education Foundation, Midsummer will equip a new computer centre and library at the White Water secondary school with an entire state-of-the-art off-grid solar energy system. "We have looked to initiate a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) project for a while and now found this Zimbabwe school project that suits us perfectly and that we will support for the long haul,", said Sven Lindstrom, CEO, Midsummer. "We get the opportunity to donate an entire expandable solar energy system to support education in a poor rural area in Africa and with the confidence that the project is run very professionally by the Karaszi Foundation." "In addition, we can use the installation to test and measure the performance of the system and our CIGS thin film solar cells in a sun-soaked area at high altitude near the equator, and to what extent it may efficiently power not only the computer hall but also other school buildings - the school is completely off-grid. Our light weight and flexible thin film solar panels are ideal for the relatively weak roof structures that are common in developing regions." The computer centre and library will be a brand new 100 sqm school building, financed and constructed by the Karaszi Foundation. It has room for up to 40 students, a dozen teachers and will be equipped with 30 laptops and satellite Internet communications, all powered by the modern solar energy system, complete with 47 panels, inverters and batteries, donated by Midsummer. The panels have been manufactured at Midsummer's factory in Sweden and are on route to southern Africa. For images of the school project, please visit http://karaszifoundation.se/projects/ "I am happy to team up with Midsummer and its expertise to power the new computer hall with 100% green energy,", said Peter Karaszi, Founder of the Paul & Eszter Karaszi Education Foundation. "The foundation is looking for the very best partners for our projects to be able to deliver top notch solutions for the selected schools that we decide to support." The Karaszi Foundation is a small privately-run non-profit organization that plans, coordinates and executes school projects for underprivileged children in Africa. It invests 100% of donations in the projects, without any administrative costs whatsoever, and accepts donations from private citizens, companies and institutions. See www.karaszifoundation.se. The White Water secondary school with 450 students is located in the Matopos area near Zimbabwe's second largest city Bulawayo in Matabeleland. The latitude is 2030 South of the equator and the elevation is approx. 1,350 meters. The average monthly sunshine in the Matopos range from 200 hours in February to 300 hours in August. Other sponsors in the White Water project are Big Cave Camp (accommodation, project management), Go Hybrid (IT services) and Warrick Raubenheimer Architecture. Contact: Sven Lindstrom CEO, Midsummer AB Email: sven.lindstrom@midsummer.se Phone: +46 (0) 8 525 09 610 RES, the world's largest independent renewable energy company, is pleased to announce the start of construction on Southern Power's 200 MW Reading Wind Facility in Osage and Lyon counties, Kansas. Once complete in 2020, the 200 MW project will generate roughly 760,000 megawatt hours of clean energy per year. Southern Power, which announced it acquired the project from RES in October 2018, will operate and maintain the facility upon completion in the second quarter of 2020. The project consists of 62 Siemens Gamesa wind turbines and the energy output will be sold to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. under a 12-year PPA. The Reading Wind project will generate significant benefits to the local community, including creating approximately 125 full-time jobs during peak construction and up to eight permanent jobs once operational. During construction and operation, both Osage and Lyons counties will benefit from increased local spending on goods and services. "This project will mark RES' first project in our joint development agreement with Southern Power, which has been a tremendous partner in bringing renewable energy to communities across the country." says Rick Ortiz, VP of Wind Construction. "We are excited to bring significant benefits to the local communities of Osage and Lyon counties." October 11, 1956 May 4, 2019 Scott Evan Howard, 62 passed away unexpectedly on May 4, 2019 in Elko, NV. Scott was born on October 11, 1956 in Ft. Rucker, AL. to Dale R. Howard and DiAnne Bredeck Howard. Scott graduated from Carson High School in Carson City, Nevada in 1975. After graduation, Scott joined the United States Air Force where he served for 9 years. While stationed in the Philippines, Scott married and welcomed three sons. After his Honorable Discharge from the military, Scott and his sons moved to Elko where he resided until he passed away. Scott was preceded in death by his father, Dale. He is survived by his mother, DiAnne; three sons; Kevin of Elko, NV; Keith of Las Vegas, NV and Scotty of Elko, NV; sisters, Sherri (Mike) McCarty and Terri (Bill) Berger, all of Spring Creek, NV; granddaughter, Charlotte of Las Vegas, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. There will be a private family gathering at a later date in Oregon. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to your favorite charity. SALT LAKE CITY (AP) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints changed wedding rules Monday in hopes of preventing family members who arent church members from feeling excluded. Couples who get married in civil ceremonies will no longer have to wait one year to do a temple wedding ceremony that only members in good standing can attend, the faith said in a news release. Church leaders said it will allow families to come together in love and unity, but doesnt lessen the temple ceremony the faith believes seals the couple for eternity. Religious scholar Matthew Bowman said the old wedding rule was designed to encourage couples to get married in a temple and have a reception or ring ceremony afterward, but sometimes created heartache for families with mixed religious affiliations. Church convert Aubri Alvarez said her mother cried on the steps of the Albuquerque temple while she and her husband went through the wedding ceremony inside. Alvarez, 19, said the reception after her wedding last year softened the blow, but it was painful for her evangelical parents not to be able to participate in their only daughters wedding. My parents also love God and are very nice people and they couldnt see their daughter get married, Alvarez said. This change will help a lot of people who are not born into the church. You really had to choose between the church and your family. The modification signals the latest change under the leadership of church President Russell M. Nelson, who has made a host of changes since taking over in January 2018. The 94-year-old former surgeon recently rescinded rules banning baptisms for children of gay parents and branding same-sex couples apostates subject to excommunication. He has also launched a campaign calling on people to stop using the shorthand names Mormon and LDS, severed the faiths ties with the Boy Scouts of America after a century, shortened Sunday worship by an hour and revised a sacred temple ceremony to give women a more prominent role. At the heart of issue with weddings is a requirement that only members following the rules of the faith who are approved for temple recommend cards can worship inside temples. Church leaders dont disclose how many members have these permissions, but its believed to be less than half, said Bowman, an associate professor of history at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. That means even some mostly Latter-day Saint families were left with family members who cant attend the temple ceremonies. The receptions, or ring ceremonies, that occur afterward arent supposed to resemble a wedding, leaving those left out of the temple feeling like they missed the most important moment, Bowman said. There were feelings of exclusion, feelings of separations of families, Bowman said. Many people experience sadness because that. Bowman predicted that more church members will have a civil ceremony first with more of the trappings of a traditional American wedding, such as the bride walking down the aisle and an exchange of vows. Those traditions were not part of the ring ceremonies, he said. Church leaders said Monday they still want the civil ceremonies to be simple and dignified to keep the focus on the temple ceremony. The rule change will mostly impact people in the United States and Canada because church members in many foreign countries are already required by law to get married civilly first before a temple ceremony, the faith said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 RENO An Elko cardiologist who was one of the first doctors to be targeted by federal prosecutors for overprescribing opioids has been sentenced to prison. Dr. Devendra I. Patel, also known as Devendrakumar I. Patel, was sentenced Tuesday to three years and one month in federal prison for prescribing highly addictive pain pills Oxycodone and Hydrocodone at a high rate to his patients without a medical purpose, according to a release from the U.S. Department of Justice. Patel, 60, pleaded guilty in November 2018 to distribution of controlled substances, after being indicted by a grand jury in December 2017. His DEA license was suspended upon his arrest in December 2017. The indictment included 36 counts with a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count. Patel owned and operated Northeastern Nevada Cardiology. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Judge Larry R. Hicks sentenced Patel to three years of supervised release and ordered him to pay a $500,000 fine. Patel was ordered to self-surrender to begin serving his sentence on August 6. U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Aaron C. Rouse of the FBIs Las Vegas Division, Resident Agent in Charge Marc C. Kuzmicki of the DEAs Reno Office, and Special Agent in Charge Christian J. Schrank of the Office of Inspector General, for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office Los Angeles Region made the announcement. Medical professionals who violate their oath and the law by prescribing addictive opioids without a legitimate medical purpose will be investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable for their actions, said Trutanich. The U.S. Attorneys Office is fully committed to the investigation and prosecution of medical professionals who abuse their position of trust and by a stroke of the pen directly contribute to the opioid crisis. Let those who would betray their oath to do no harm take notice of the penalty for such callous mistreatment of their patients, said Rouse. The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners in a unified effort to battle the opioid crisis in the state of Nevada. This case is a direct result of the hard work of the investigators and prosecutors from the DOJ and their partners in Reno, Nevada, said Kuzmicki. This should serve as a warning to practitioners in Northern Nevada who are helping fuel the opioid epidemic. While the vast majority of medical professionals are following the appropriate guidelines and prescribing well within the law, we will find those who are harming members of our community and bring them to justice. It is difficult to believe that a physician, sworn to do no harm by his Hippocratic oath, would needlessly prescribe these highly addictive opioid medications, said Schrank. Yet our investigation revealed that Dr. Patel did exactly that. Physicians using prescribing privileges to fatten their profits rather than easing the pain of patients should expect aggressive investigation and prosecution. Between September 2015 and February 2016, Patel prescribed Oxycodone and Hydrocodone to patients without a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice. His prescribing practices allowed him to see a high volume of patients and easily prescribe opioids, while not addressing any legitimate medical concerns of his patients, investigators said. The case was investigated by the FBI, DEA, Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Secret Service, the Elko Combined Narcotics Unit, Elko Police Department, Elko County Sheriffs Office, and the Nevada Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami prosecuted the case. More than 42,000 people died from a prescription opioid overdose in 2016, and over 1,000 people are treated in the emergency room daily for improper use of prescription opioids, according to the Center for Disease Control. In 2016, there were 408 opioid-related deaths in Nevada, according to the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. The Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection unit is a program that utilizes data to help combat the devastating opioid crisis. In 2017, the District of Nevada was selected as one of 12 districts nationally to participate in the program. The District of Nevada has assigned an experienced prosecutor that focuses solely on investigating and prosecuting health care fraud related to medical professionals who prescribe opioids, that unlawfully divert of dispense prescription opioids for illegitimate purposes. For information about the harmful effects of illicit drug use, visit www.JustThinkTwice.com for teens and www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com for parents, educators, and caregivers. To report suspected opioid-related crimes, the public is encouraged to contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or the DEA at www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/tips_online.htm. Love 4 Funny 3 Wow 0 Sad 3 Angry 2 ELKO Highway construction season is coming soon, and although the projects in the works will cause some inconveniences this summer and next, the end result will be smoother and safer sailing for travelers in the Elko region. Nevada Department of Transportation District 3 Engineer Boyd Ratliff said that first up on the list of projects is the construction of a truck climbing lane for eastbound traffic going up to the Pequop Summit on Interstate 80 east of Elko. There is already a truck climbing lane on the other side of the summit for westbound traffic. The eastbound truck climbing lane will start at the bottom of that canyon and go up to the summit, Ratliff said at the April Elko County Regional Transportation Commission meeting. Its a very significant project. There is going to be some blasting in that canyon. Theres going be bridge widening, and lots of grading and drainage improvements. The contract for this project has been awarded to W.W. Clyde & Co. of Utah. They are now getting mobilized to begin work. The cost of the project is $31.3 million. People who travel Interstate 80 through Nevada are familiar with the concrete stretch of highway in the Deeth area west of Wells. Its a bumpy, noisy ride, especially for certain vehicles. Some people at the Regional Transportation Commission meeting commented that some children actually enjoy that section of road. However, many adults find it more annoying than fun. Ratliff said this concrete section of highway has been on the list of projects for years. This summer the concrete section should finally get torn out and replaced with a much smoother asphalt highway. The project has not been awarded yet, but Ratliff said the contractor with the apparent low bid is Road and Highway Builders of Sparks. The contract is expected to be approved on May 13, and Ratliff said work on the highway will probably begin within a month after that. The section of highway that will be replaced is about 6.5 miles, Ratliff said. The project cost is $16.4 million. It is definitely overdue and it is a much-needed project, Ratliff said. He said that the project was delayed for several years in order to be as efficient as possible with the highway funds. Ratliff explained that other paving projects in the region would have seen their costs rise if they were delayed, but the Deeth project could be delayed without changing the scope of work or increasing the costs. At the Regional Transportation Commission meeting, Elko County Commissioner Cliff Eklund said he would also like to see work done to smooth out Interstate 80 east of the Carlin Tunnel. If people are driving anything bigger than a small pickup or a car, Eklund said, they stop at the California Trail Center and put on their bucking spurs and saddles to drive over that area, because its fairly rough. Ratliff said he agreed, and some maintenance has been done on that section of highway but a major reconstruction project is still a ways in the future. But it is on our radar, he said. More I-80 work which will probably get started later in the summer is a pavement reconstruction project by Osino, east of Elko. On about a seven-mile stretch of highway, an inch or two of asphalt will be milled off and will be replaced with thicker pavement. Ratliff estimates that this project will cost in the 8 to 11 million dollar range. Probably the number one priority for road projects in Elko County, Ratliff said, is the addition of new passing lanes on U.S. Highway 93 between Wells and Jackpot. This project has passed the scoping phase and is currently being designed. The first phase of construction is expected to begin in 2020, although it possibly could be postponed to 2021. Ratliff said he thinks probably three or four areas with new north and south passing lanes will be added. Im anticipating this project for next year will be the first phase of several, he said. Thats a very dangerous stretch of road, Eklund commented during the Regional Transportation Commission meeting. It has become that way, Ratliff agreed. Twenty-five to 30 years ago it was a different animal. It hasnt changed too much since then; in fact, weve made safety improvements. But the usage and the vehicle counts on that road have gone up significantly here in the last 10 years. Passing lanes will alleviate some of that congestion and the need for people to feel like they need to pass when they shouldnt. Another project thats set to go is a box replacement at Jack Creek on the Tuscarora Highway, State Route 226. Ratliff said a contractor is on board for the project, but they will probably have to wait until the middle of summer to get to work in order to let things dry out a bit. The box over Jack Creek, the bottom of it is completely deteriorated, Ratliff said. The rebar is showing through the concrete. Theyll be putting in a wider and safer box for that roadway. He said there will probably be a temporary single-lane bridge with a signal over Jack Creek during the construction. Along with all these projects, there will be chip seals and other projects on state routes throughout the county. Ratliff said NDOT has allocated about $3 to $3.5 million for contracted work on these projects, along with about $700,000 for state forces. One change to I-80 in Nevada that was completed last year was an increase in the speed limit from 75 to 80 miles per hour. The speed limit increase was done in several phases, and the 80-miles-per-hour signs were installed between Elko and Wells in December. That was something that was definitely wanted by the Elko County commissioners, Ratliff said. The speed limit is still lower than 80 for certain sections of the highway, including through Elko, where the speed limit is 65. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Two months after a contentious hearing, lawmakers are revealing a reworked version of a major criminal justice reform bill aimed at curbing Nevadas rising prison population and incarceration costs. Assembly Judiciary Committee Chairman Steve Yeager walked reporters through an amendment Tuesday to AB236, an omnibus bill that reduces penalties for some lower-level crimes and aims to increase access to diversion programs that offer offenders treatment and services in lieu of time behind bars. The bill enshrines many recommendations developed during the interim by criminal justice leaders and the Crime and Justice Institute, which projected that implementing all the changes could cut prison costs by $640 million over the next decade. I think we tried to accommodate as much as we can while still accomplishing what Gov. Sandoval and others tasked us to do, which was to do something meaningful about this problem and not just to make small changes around the edges, Yeager said. We all have the goal of making sure that [offender] doesnt come back, whether its on the defense side or the prosecutor side or law enforcement side. After two months of meeting with fellow lawmakers, police, court representatives, prosecutors and civil liberties advocates to work out their differences, Yeager plans to bring the measure up for a vote in his committee on Thursday. It will then come to the full Assembly for a vote before repeating the process again in a Senate headed by Democratic prosecutor and Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro, who has sponsored bills this session that take a more tough-on-crime approach. Im not sure where the working groups that have been working on that have landed, Cannizzaro said Tuesday when asked about the bills prospects in the Senate. Im just as excited to see it as you are. Holly Welborn of the ACLU of Nevada said shes optimistic that the sweeping criminal justice bill will succeed this session. We had some very productive and meaningful conversations with the Senate majority leader, she said. I think were hopeful at this point that many of the changes that are coming out of the Assembly they havent really scaled back too much on the reform that we think is necessary. The bill has less than a month to finish the process, but Yeager said he tried to do as much of the heavy lifting as possible on the Assembly side. He said hes cautiously optimistic that hell get bipartisan support on the amended legislation. Change can be uncomfortable, but Im comforted by the fact that in every state that theyve done this, the results have by and large been positive. Changes in the amended bill include: Burglary: Nevadas expansive burglary statute, which covers anyone who enters a building with the intent to commit a crime, was one of the chief areas of focus for leaders who wanted to reduce prison crowding. The amended bill breaks the burglary statute into a series of subcategories, with commercial burglaries having a lower penalty than residential burglaries. While it initially reduced the crime of car burglaries to a gross misdemeanor, the amendment restores that crime back to a category E felony punishable by 1-4 years in prison. Its sort of quality of life offense, right? I mean, no one wants their car broken into, Yeager said. The bill has higher penalties for burglarizing a structure or a business, but reserves the highest penalties for residential burglaries. That is punishable as a category B felony. Everyone sort of agrees that those are the real bad actors that are breaking into houses, Yeager said. Thats some serious stuff, which is very different than someone going into a casino and passing a bad check. Habitual criminal statutes: The original bill proposed to rework the states lower level habitual criminal law. Initially, it required courts to look back within the past 10 years to see whether a person was a repeat offender, because people can seal records on crimes older than that. The new amendment simplifies the structure, specifying that five prior felonies make someone eligible for up to 20 years in prison under the habitual criminal statute, and seven prior felonies make them eligible for a life sentence. Existing law says two felonies qualify for up to 20 years behind bars, and three felonies qualify a person for up to life in prison. The bill doesnt affect the states law on violent habitual offenses. To qualify for that charge, a person only needs to commit two violent acts. Theft: Going into the session, leaders proposed increasing the benchmark at which a theft becomes a felony. Existing law specifies that stealing anything worth more than $650 should qualify. While the original bill proposed raising the threshold to $2,000, the compromise language puts the mark at $1,200. That means stealing a single smartphone would probably be a misdemeanor. It was a compromise. But we definitely had discussions about iPhones, said Democratic Assemblywoman Rochelle Nguyen, who worked heavily on developing the amendment. Graduated sanctions: Reformers wanted to ensure that parolees and probationers who make a technical violation to their parole terms arent so easily thrown into jail. It can often take 30-45 days for someone who violates their parole to get a hearing before a judge who determines if the person heads to prison. That lapse can be a major setback in any progress a parolee or probationer is making in their life. The bill offers a specific definition of what is technical and what is legitimate grounds for heading back to prison. If you commit a new felony crime, obviously you can be sent back for your whole sentence, Yeager said. If you commit a misdemeanor battery, domestic violence, if you commit a misdemeanor driving under the influence that is not a technical violation those are public safety misdemeanors and theyre important. Drug crimes: The bill sought to ease Nevadas strict rules on drug possession and sales. Existing law defines drug trafficking as possession of more than 4 grams, which is far stricter than federal law on the topic; the amendment lifts that threshold to 100 grams. The bill specifies that possession of a controlled substance is a misdemeanor for the first two times and a felony on the third. Possessing the drug with an intent to sell it even if the amount is small remains a felony. Having less than 14 grams is a category D felony, with higher penalties for greater weights. We want to punish the pushers, but we dont necessarily want to overly punish the users because thats a behavioral health issue. Thats a substance abuse issue, Yeager said. So to, to separate those two classes and say if youre a user, we want to try to get you help. If youre a seller, thats a different story. Initially, the bill would prevent a conviction for intent to sell unless there was indicia of sales, such as scales, a list of customers or a large amount of cash. The amendment now specifies that weight can be an indication of intent to sell, so a large quantity of drugs could be grounds for pursuing drug sales charges. The bill also seeks to give judges more discretion in sentencing people for drug trafficking. The idea is that often, people are mules for drug traffickers and not the actual kingpin, but would still face draconian drug trafficking penalties. A judge would be able to say, look, I dont think youre the bad guy here, Yeager said. Youre still gonna have your felony. Youre probably still going to go to prison, but were not going to pay for you to spend the rest of your life in prison in Nevada. The bill reduces penalties for some lower-level crimes and aims to increase access to diversion programs that offer offenders treatment and services in lieu of time behind bars. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 TONOPAH The Western Shoshone Nation is inviting the public to join its protest this weekend against moves by the Trump administration to restart operations at the Yucca Mountain Nuclear Waste Repository. Members began their annual sacred walk in Tonopah on Monday and will end in Mercury on Friday, where the public can join them. Western Shoshone Nation Council member Johnnie Bobb, who will lead the events, said the nation takes a stand to protect Mother Earth every year on Mothers Day weekend. Our native people have been fighting this war for a long time, he said. The Nevada Test Site, quit building it. Dont make it no more. Try something else. This is sacred land. This is Shoshone land. This is a treaty land. We dont want this nuclear waste. Last year, the feds requested $150 million to revive the licensing process, but Congress did not appropriate the money. This year, theyve requested almost $170 million. Members of Nevadas congressional delegation have introduced bills to block the project at Yucca Mountain and top leaders in the casino industry are on record in opposition as well. Even though the nuclear bomb tests took place decades ago, said Colton Miller, a Western Shoshone Nation protester, the effects still remain. So, the tribe opposes any new nuclear storage at the site. The effects are being seen everywhere now in the surrounding area around the Yucca Mountain, he said. Radiation traces have been traced all the way to Indian Springs, Cactus Springs, 25 miles away, not to mention theres an important aquifer that stretches out for 80 miles. The group PLAN Action is arranging bus transportation this Friday so people from Las Vegas and Reno can get to the site in Mercury, where they can camp and take part in the events on Saturday, returning on Sunday. More information is on the PLAN Action Facebook page. Love 1 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 Penny wise and pound foolish? Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak announced recently that he is donating his $163,000-a-year salary to the states poorest public schools. I asked the people of Nevada for the chance to lead this state for many reasons, chief among them being the opportunity to improve educational outcomes for every child in every classroom in the state, Sisolak wrote in a letter to the Nevada State Board of Education. To show my commitment to this goal, the First Lady and I are donating my net state salary back to public education. It is my sincere hope that with these donations, I can begin to fulfill my promise to our educators, families, and children and make a positive impact on our public schools. According to news accounts, the money would be split among the states 416 poorest schools less than $400 per school. This is the same governor who declared in his State of the State speech that he would increase the cost to build new public schools and playgrounds. This session I will work to return prevailing wage to public construction projects as it was before the 2015 session including, and most importantly, for our childrens schools, Sisolak declared. Not only do prevailing wage laws support highly skilled workers in Nevada, they guarantee our children are learning in well-constructed, high quality educational facilities. Lets do this. In pursuit of that largesse for state construction unions, the Assembly at the end of April passed Assembly Bill 136, which would reverse a modest rollback passed in 2015 that reduced the prevailing wage for public school and college construction to 90 percent of the prevailing wage and raised the threshold for covered projects from $100,000 to $250,000. The prevailing wage law requires that workers on public construction jobs be paid no less than the prevailing wage in the area where the work is being done. The wage rate is set by the state Labor Commissioner based on a survey of contractors. The survey is so time consuming that in reality only union shops bother to comply, meaning the prevailing wage is the highest union wage. Every Assembly Republican present voted against AB136. Assemblyman Gregory Hafen, a Pahrump Republican, was quoted by the Carson City newspaper as saying that the states school districts have estimated AB136 would add $35 million to the cost of building public and charter schools. Alexis Hansen, a Sparks Republican, said it would add 25 percent to the cost of new schools. Strangely, Nevada System of Higher Education originally said the bill would cost it $18.5 million over the next two years, but later withdrew its fiscal note during testimony before the Assembly Ways and Means Committee, saying it was too difficult to forecast what the market will be in the next two years. Should the bill pass the Senate and be signed as promised by the governor it will snatch funds from schools that could have been spent on such things as Sisolaks proposed 3 percent salary hikes for all state teachers, plus 2 percent merit raises in each of the next two years. The Clark County School District is already complaining that the funding earmarked for the district is inadequate to cover those proposed raises. The outlook was further clouded this past week when the Economic Forum, which by law sets the amount of money the Legislature may spend during the next biennium based on current taxes, said a paltry $42.8 million more than previous estimates will be available to spend. Thats less than 0.5 percent of the $8.8 billion general fund budget. Gov. Sisolak spun the news by boasting that the report means Nevada has the fastest growing economy in the country and continues to outpace the rest of the nation in terms of job growth. Assembly Republican Leader Jim Wheeler said the Economic Forum forecast will put the governors no new taxes promises to the test. In its simplest terms, the Governor and the Democrats are trying to spend more money than is available, Wheeler said in a statement put out by the Republican leadership. How will Democrats keep their promise to teachers and unions while still balancing the state budget? Republican Assemblywoman Robin Titus remarked, Simply put, there is not enough money to go around. It is time for our lawmakers to make some tough decisions and not be penny wise and pound foolish. Thomas Mitchell is a longtime Nevada newspaper columnist. You may email him at thomasmnv@yahoo.com. He also blogs at http://4thst8.wordpress.com/ Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 A rhinoceros at the Barcelona zoo. Carles Ribas The city of Barcelona has taken a historic step that signals the beginning of the end of the municipal zoo, at least such as it has existed in its 127 years of history. Against a backdrop of growing sensitivity to animal rights, the city council has approved an amendment to the animal-protection ordinance, prohibiting breeding programs for species that cannot later be released back into their natural habitat. They are ignorant of the role played by zoos in the conservation of endangered species Martin Zordan, WAZA The move was backed by Mayor Ada Colaus Barcelona en Comu group, by the Catalan European Democratic Party (PdeCAT) and by the Catalan Republican Left (ERC), and rejected by Ciudadanos (Citizens), the Catalan Socialist Party (PSC) and the Popular Party (PP). This legal reform is the answer to a popular initiative called ZooXXI, sponsored by the animal welfare group Libera, which collected thousands of signatures to push for legislative change. The council has also greenlighted a strategic plan that releases 65 million to upgrade the zoo facilities, parts of which date back to 1892. This financial plan was backed by all political groups, and will prioritize the conservation of Iberian and Mediterranean species. Lions will no longer be bred at the zoo. Carles Ribas Controversy Most of the 2,000 specimens representing 300 species that currently live at the zoo will be transferred to nature reserves or cared for until their death. An exception to the breeding ban is made for species included in plans for reintroducing them into the wild. Right now, only 11 species meet this criterion, but zoo managers have been asked to produce proposals for other potential candidates. A scientific-ethical committee will be in charge of reviewing the list of candidate species for future breeding programs. Sponsors of the move are celebrating the fact that Barcelona will have Europes first animalist zoo. Barcelona will be the first animalist zoo on the planet, said ZooXXI sponsor Leonardo Anselmi. This will allow us to deploy a zoo that we can all feel proud of Deputy Mayor Janet Sanz This will allow us to display a zoo that we can all feel proud of, and which residents will enjoy for many years, said Deputy Mayor Janet Sanz, who is in charge of environmental issues. This official said that employees jobs would be guaranteed. But Santiago Alonso of Ciudadanos noted that the amendment has received more than 300 complaints from the scientific community and universities. Organizations such as the International Union for the Conservation of Nature have criticized the lack of scientific rigor, while the zoos 150 employees have gone on strike, fearing for their jobs and saying that the measure will shut down a park that has been in the citys collective memory for generations. Buenos Aires precedent While elephants, bears, camels, kangaroos and zebras will no longer be bred because they are not endangered species, those that are, such as orangutans, will get different treatment. Zoo managers will have to come up with a specific project for each of these species within a year, to determine whether zoo breeding would bring quantifiable benefits for the conservation and viability of the species, as well as the phases in which reintroduction into nature or population reinforcement will be carried out. A committee and City Hall will have the final word. The only similar experience with this kind of reconversion is the Buenos Aires zoo, which was turned into an ecopark. Citizens thought that we would transfer animals to sanctuaries straight away, but everything is slower than it seems, says Tom Sciola, a manager at Argentinas former zoo. At the ecopark, visitors do not see the animals directly. When the elephants die out, they will not be replaced. Carles Ribas The only ones that are bred are those with a program for reintroduction into nature: the Andean condor and the red-and-green macaw, adds Sciola. Once all the animals have been transferred to sanctuaries and those who remain have died, the ecopark will keep breeding these two species until it is considered necessary. The facilities will also be used as a rescue center for animals that have suffered abuse or sustained injuries. The Barcelona zoo currently has reintroduction programs for 11 species: the Majorcan midwife toad, lesser grey shrike, Hermanns tortoise, Montseny brook newt, dorcas gazelle, Eurasian spoonbill, common heron, Scops owl, Mediterranean pond turtle, monk vulture and griffon vulture. The future of the other species will depend on the projects that are drafted by zoo management. Alejandra Garcia, of the animal welfare group Libera, says: Three years after the projects get drafted, any animals that cannot live in nature, such as apes, will no longer be bred, even if they are endangered. We cannot allow there to be animals wasting away in cages. But experts in zoo management have slammed the initiative, saying its sponsors have demonstrated little to no knowledge of the way these centers are run or what they do. They are ignorant of the role played by zoos in the conservation of endangered species, said Martin Zordan, executive director of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. We want to be part of the scientific-ethical committee in charge of evaluating breeding criteria. If we dont breed species in the long term, we will never know whether we might have reintroduced animals in future that cannot be released in nature today because they would immediately meet with death, added Javier Almunia, president of the Iberian Association of Zoos and Aquariums. English version by Susana Urra. Pedro Sanchez and Pablo Iglesias meet in La Moncloa. Samuel Sanchez (EL PAIS) Spains acting prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, met with two more opposition leaders on Tuesday, a day after sitting down with Popular Party (PP) president Pablo Casado to discuss the way forward following the general election of April 28, which yielded a fragmented parliament. Sanchez whose Socialist Party (PSOE) earned the most seats (123) but is still short of the 176 required for an overall majority is meeting the opposition to normalize institutional relations and political dialogue following a particularly harsh campaign, said sources at La Moncloa, the seat of government. Political leaders will later meet with King Felipe VI to determine whether any candidate to be the next prime minister of Spain has enough support from parliament, and to set a date for the investiture vote. There is a precedent for failure following the December 2015 election, when lack of support for any one nominee led to a new election six months later. On Tuesday, Sanchez first met with Ciudadanos (Citizens) leader Albert Rivera. While an alliance of both parties would yield 180 seats, more than enough for an overall majority, Rivera has made it clear that he will not be supporting the Socialist leaders bid for reinstatement. During the 50-minute meeting, Rivera underscored that his plan is to try to be the leader of the opposition in Congress, even if his party earned nine fewer seats than the PP. The head of Ciudadanos feels that the mainstream conservatives, who sustained a resounding defeat at the election dropping from 137 to 66 seats are breaking apart, leaving room for Ciudadanos to take over the leadership of the center-right space in Spanish politics. Pedro Sanchez and Albert Rivera at their meeting. Samuel Sanchez On the subject of Catalonia, Rivera demanded an immediate reintroduction of direct rule through special constitutional powers, which was implemented for several months after the unconstitutional referendum and unilateral independence declaration of October 2017. By contrast, the PPs Pablo Casado did not mention the issue at his Monday meeting with Sanchez, which was significantly longer as well as more cordial, according to government sources. Where Rivera did offer cooperation is on the possibility of reaching state pacts on education, depopulation, immigration, security and the fight against terrorism. Podemos: agreeing to agree The government of Spain thus depends on the relationship between the PSOE and the leftist Unidas Podemos: together, these two groups have 165 deputies, which still requires support from 11 more representatives, and likely means courting the Catalan nationalists. The acting PM was widely criticized by the opposition throughout his 10-month tenure for having won the no-confidence vote against Mariano Rajoy thanks to help from Catalan separatist parties. During the campaign, the right accused Sanchez of selling out to secessionists, despite his insistence that no deals had been made. While Sanchez and Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias appear to be in sync, there is an obstacle in the way: the Socialists want to head a minority government with support from Podemos, while the latter wants a coalition government with portfolios for some of its leading members. And then there is the issue of Catalonia: Podemos defends a negotiated referendum on independence, while the PSOE does not. It will be a long negotiation that is expected to produce a detailed governing program, in the manner of the coalitions in Germany and the Netherlands. Both parties have experience working together on the 2019 budget plan, which was ultimately rejected due to lack of support from Catalan separatist parties who wanted more concessions regarding the independence drive. Podemos wants a coalition government with portfolios for some of its leading members After a two-hour meeting on Tuesday, both men agreed to play down the tension and give themselves time for a lengthy negotiation that is not expected to yield any major results until after the May 26 local, regional and European elections. At a speedy news conference on Tuesday lasting under five minutes, a laconic Iglesias deflected reporters questions and illustrated the situation with a statement reminiscent of Groucho Marx: We have agreed that we need to agree, he said with a half-smile. English version by Susana Urra. A tweet with the photo of missing student Natalia Sanchez Uribe. @sosdesaparecido (Twitter) Natalia Sanchez Uribe, a Spanish Erasmus student who went missing last week in Paris, has been found alive, according to her home countrys Foreign Ministry. The 22-year-old had not been heard from since May 1. According to sources close to the case, when she was located she was slightly disoriented and taken to hospital. The youngsters rucksack which contained her cellphone and laptop was located on Tuesday Sources at the Spanish Civil Guard, which worked closely with the French police, said that the young woman has been at Henri Ey Hospital, located near the university, for several days. The European Foundation for Missing Persons has spoken to the family of the young Spaniard, who said that for now they do not want to share any more details about the case, EL PAIS has confirmed. The family has also asked for privacy. Her mother, Inma Uribe, has sent out a message through the foundations Twitter account: Hello, I am Natalias mother and I would like to inform you that Natalia is all right. So I ask everyone to respect our need for peace and quiet. Sanchez Uribe, an economics and business student at Barcelonas Autonomous University, has been in France since September, where she is studying at the Sorbonne Economics School on the Erasmus European exchange program. Her course is due to end in two weeks. According to the UAB, the youngsters rucksack which contained her cellphone and laptop was located on Tuesday. Friends of hers explained that these personal possessions appeared in a park close to the university. On the morning of her disappearance she was moving out of her apartment to go live with a friend, despite the fact that she only had two weeks to go before graduation. After dropping off two suitcases, Sanchez Uribe said she would be back with a third, but never showed up again. Her landlord told this newspaper that she never showed up to return the keys on May 2 as agreed. Her friends said that Natalia had told them she was feeling watched and followed. Her parents residents of the Balearic Island of Mallorca, but originally from Granada have traveled to Paris to keep up to date with the investigation. No arrests have been made so far. English version by Simon Hunter. Election campaign posters featuring Catalan politicians. David Zorrakino (Europa Press) At the April 28 general election in Spain, five of the successful Catalan candidates for Congress and the Senate were in an unusual position. Oriol Junqueras, Raul Romeva (Catalan Republican Party, or ERC), Jordi Turull, Josep Rull and Jordi Sanchez (Together for Catalonia, or Junts per Catalunya) are all currently on trial in Spains Supreme Court for their role in the 2017 pro-independence drive in the northeastern Spanish region. Given that in the courts opinion they presented a flight risk and could also potentially re-offend, they are also being held in custody, meaning that, in theory, they will be unable to take their seats in Spains houses of parliament. Defense lawyers argue that Article 753 of the Criminal Procedure Law sets out the suspension of any judicial process The five men have now requested that they be released from custody, so that they can fulfill their roles as parliamentarians Romeva in the Senate, and the rest in Congress. In a petition presented on Wednesday, their lawyers have called on the Supreme Court to request authorization from Spains houses of parliament to continue with the judicial proceedings, given their new roles and the immunity from prosecution that accompanies them. They also called for them to be released from custody in order to fully exercise the responsibilities that come with their new status. The defense lawyers are basing this petition on Article 71.2 of the Constitution, which establishes that deputies and senators will enjoy immunity and can only be arrested in the case of a flagrant offense. They cannot be defendants nor prosecuted without the prior authorization of the respective house. The lawyers argue that the pro-independence leaders start to enjoy this immunity from the moment that they are proclaimed deputies-elect i.e. before they officially take their seats and parliament is convened. The houses of parliament will be convened on May 21, and according to procedure, parliamentarians will have to be physically present that day Legal sources, meanwhile, believe that the Supreme Court does not need to request permission from parliament to continue with the trial, given that the trial of the men began before they were elected as parliamentarians. But the defense lawyers argue that Article 753 of the Criminal Procedure Law sets out the suspension of any judicial process ahead of a decision on whether or not immunity should be waived. The houses of parliament will be convened on May 21, and according to procedure, parliamentarians will have to be physically present that day. The Supreme Court is not planning to veto the attendance of the defendants in question, and has left the trial schedule clear that day. But the defense lawyers argue that the parliamentarians will not be able to fulfill their roles while they are being held in custody, hence the request for them to be freed. English version by Simon Hunter. Ryanair adds second flight on Fridays on Kyiv-Warsaw route from Nov The Irish low-cost airline Ryanair from November 1, 2019 added the second flight on Fridays on the Kyiv-Warsaw route, according to the airline's ticket reservation system. Flights on the Kyiv-Warsaw route from November 1 will be operated twice a day on Fridays with departure at 11:30 and 23:05. Airplanes will fly from Poland to Kyiv at 08:15 and 19:50. As reported, earlier Ryanair launched flights from Kharkiv and Odesa and announced the opening of seven new routes in Ukraine in 2019. Kyiv's Pechersky District Court satisfied the complaint of the representative of Igor Kaletnik and ordered the Prosecutor General's Office to cancel him from the list of wanted persons. The court recognized the illegality of the actions of the General Prosecutor's Office and, by another decision, recognized, that the criminal proceedings under the so-called dictatorial lawsare a political persecution of the former deputy chairman of the Verkhovna Rada. This was reported by Kaletniks lawyer Irina Zalyubovskaya on her page on Facebook. This is not the first court decision in the case of Igor Kaletnik on the last period. As reported, on April 2, the Kyiv's Pechersky District Court ordered the State Bureau of Investigation to begin criminal proceedings on PGO prosecutors, who exceeded their official authority and did not comply with previous court decisions to terminate the criminal prosecution of Kaletnik. Such actions of prosecutors are illegal and contrary to the norms of law. The PGO prosecutors pursued Kaletnik, following the instructions of the leadership, said lawyer. According to her, at present, the State Bureau of Investigations should investigate and identify all, who were involved in organizations the crimes against her client. Russia-occupation forces mounted 25 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the past 24 hours, with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as killed in action (KIA), and another three as wounded in action (WIA), the press service of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) has reported. "On May 7, Russia's armed forces violated the cease-fire regime 25 times, 12 of them with the use of the 122mm caliber artillery systems banned by the Minsk agreements, 120 and 82mm tank guns and mortars. The enemy also attacked our defenders from infantry combat vehicles, anti-tank missile systems, large-caliber machine guns, automatic rifle and sniper weapons ... One serviceman of the Joint Forces was killed, another three were wounded in shelling," the JFO staff said in its update on Facebook on Wednesday morning. Ukrainian positions near the towns of Avdiyivka and Popasna, as well as near the villages of Novotroyitske, Vodiane, Mykolayivka, Hnutove, Nevelske, Starohnativka, Novoselivka Druha, Lebedynske, Bohdanivka, Novozvanivka, Katerynivka, Khutir Vilny, Pivdenne, and Stanytsia Luhanska were under attack. "Since Wednesday midnight, Russia-occupation forces have attacked Ukrainian positions twice near the town of Maryinka and the village of Pavlopil, using automatic grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms. One member of the Joint Forces has been killed as a result of shelling," the report said. Three enemy troops were killed and another two were wounded on Tuesday, intelligence reports say. President-elect of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has discussed with Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland, who arrived in the country on Wednesday, plans regarding the fight against corruption and the Minsk format for resolving the conflict in eastern Ukraine. "We don't want to talk about the fight against corruption, we want to achieve victory over it," Zelensky's press service quoted him as saying. According to the newly elected president, his team will make everything possible so that citizens would have as little contact with officials as possible. "Our goal is a state in a smartphone," explained Zelensky. For her part, Freeland noted that in some areas, even Canada can follow the example of Ukraine. In particular, it concerns the system of electronic declarations. "We see a lot in common between you and our Prime Minister Trudeau. Four weeks before the election, nobody believed that we would win," the Canadian Foreign Minister said. She added that it is very important for modern politicians to listen to their citizens. Freeland also assured that Zelensky can count on the support of Canada in the international arena. "It is very important that the entire Ukraine voted for you. Democratic Ukraine with a successful economy is an example for all the countries of the post-Soviet region, in particular for Russians," Freeland said. The parties also discussed the search for a peaceful settlement of the conflict in eastern Ukraine. "We have a chance to stop the fire and return Donbas," the newly elected president said. The meeting also referred to the powerful representation of the Ukrainian state at a conference on supporting reforms in Ukraine, which will be held in Toronto in July 2019. There are no Ukrainian citizens among those killed in an avalanche in Russia's Altai Mountains, official representative of the Consular Service Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Vasyl Kyrylych has said. "According to preliminary information of the General Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation in the Altai Republic, there were no citizens of Ukraine among the victims of the avalanche," he said in a comment to Interfax-Ukraine agency on Wednesday. On May 6, at about 11:00 a.m., an avalanche occurred in the South Chuy Range in the Altai Republic. A group of nine tourists from Novosibirsk came under an avalanche. A group of nine tourists fell under an avalanche: seven were killed, two survived. On May 8, the press service of the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia for Novosibirsk Region reported that two Emergencies Ministry helicopters with 30 rescuers and six canine crews flew a mission to the place of the alleged avalanche. Kyiv has accused Russian mercenaries of unilaterally ending the ceasefire on Wednesday, the Joint Center for Control and Coordination (JCCC) has reported. "According to the Ukrainian mission to the JCCC, the OSCE SMM's report on the unilateral withdrawal of Russian militants operating in eastern Ukraine from the ceasefire along the entire contact line was received at 10 a.m. on May 8, 2019," a statement posted on the Joint Forces Operation's website on Facebook on Wednesday said. A Russian citizen has been denied admittance to Ukraine after he failed to specify the purpose of his visit at the Kyiv Zhuliany Airport, the press service of the Ukrainian State Border Service said in a statement. "The Russian citizen turned aggressive and started to insult Ukraine and officers of its State Border Service. The man disregarded the demand of border guards to calm down and take two steps back [...] and continued to behave aggressively; he also took provocative attempts to attack the border detail," the statement said. The Russian citizen was detained and barred from visiting Ukraine for three years. He is facing a fine, penal labor, or 15 days of administrative arrest for being aggressive towards border guards. "The Russian citizen will be deported to Russia after the procedures are finalized," the statement said. Zelensky: We honor, bow before all those who fought against Nazism, died for Ukraine during World War II Ukrainian President-elect Volodymyr Zelensky says that on the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation on May 8, Ukrainians honor and bow before all those who fought against Nazism and died for Ukraine during the Second World War. Zelensky posted on Facebook on Wednesday a photograph showing a decorated Second World War veteran wearing medals, USSR Marine Captain Ivan Zaluzhny (who lost his only grandson Ivan Hutnyk-Zaluzhny during the ongoing war in Donbas) and Praskovia Zelenchuk-Potiak, who at age 13 became a liaison for the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, transferring information and provisions. The veterans in the photograph are shown shaking hands in front of Zelensky. The president-elect said Ukrainians honor each person who gave their life for peace. "For peace, which today Ukraine needs. Peace, which the unity of Ukrainians will guarantee. So that in the future only victories would unite us," Zelensky said. On Thursday, May 16, at 14:00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "The Shining World Compassion Award for the First Time in Ukraine." Some $25,000 has been transferred together with the award for repairing an animal shelter. Participants include: representatives of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association Ulzii Saihan and Beth Bold; Director of Kyiv City State Administration's Urban Improvement and Natural Environment Department Andriy Fischuk; journalist, animal rights activist and founder of Ukraine's first animal shelter in Pyrohiv Tamara Tarnavska (8/5a Reitarska Street). Registration requires press accreditation. More details by phone: +38 063 630 6081. VIENNA, May 7 (Reuters) The United States said on Tuesday that European powers are unlikely to live up to a pledge to prevent their conduit for trade with Iran being used to launder money or finance terrorism, raising the prospect of further U.S. sanctions. France, Britain and Germany have set up the special purpose vehicle called Instex, a conduit for barter-based trade with Iran, in an effort to protect at least some of Iran's economy from sweeping U.S. sanctions and keep alive a big-power nuclear deal that Washington is about to quit. The three European Union members have been trying to get Iran to keep its commitments under the deal to cut back its nuclear programme - which Washington distrusts - by helping it to circumvent the trade sanctions that Washington has reimposed. They want Instex to meet norms for legitimate financing set by the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force, even though Iran as a country is not yet fully compliant with them. But U.S. Treasury Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Sigal Mandelker said this would be hard for the Iranian side of Instex, with much of Iran's economy both opaque and connected to institutions under U.S. sanctions such as the Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). "I question how that's even remotely possible ... with a country like Iran where the IRGC is so endemic within the economy but also hidden in many different respects," said Mandelker, one of the chief architects and enforcers of U.S. sanctions against Iran. Washington has already accused the Europeans of undermining its efforts to isolate Tehran since President Donald Trump announced a year ago that it was pulling out of the big-power deal. Iran is still complying with the restrictions imposed by the deal, which have increased the time it would need to build a nuclear bomb if it chose to. But with the United States introducing new sanctions aimed at crippling its economy, many European officials fear the deal will soon crumble anyway. On Tuesday, the state news agency IRNA said Iran's Foreign Ministry would announce Tehran's "diminished commitments" to the nuclear deal to the five remaining signatories on Wednesday. FATF CHANCE A failure by Iran to comply fully with FATF standards by June will bring enhanced FATF scrutiny of banks there, and possibly punitive measures, which are now suspended. One European official said that the "absence of transparency and due diligence in Iran's financial system is clearly a problem in cooperation with the EU". "With regard to Instex, we didn't say it was a prerequisite for it to conform (with FATF standards), but what is clear is that anything the Iranians would do to facilitate transparency in the economy would help Instex," he said. He added, however, that so far there had been little movement by Iran. Nevertheless, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told the Russian news agency RIA on Tuesday that Iran was close to a deal to sell oil to the European Union, avoiding U.S. sanctions. Mandelker repeatedly declined to specify what future action Washington might take, but said it would enforce sanctions strictly. The U.S. Treasury has said Iran's central bank has transferred funds to Lebanon's Hezbollah, an armed Shi'ite political grouping that Washington considers a terrorist group. "How can you engage in a trade vehicle with an entity that itself is supporting the movement of money for terrorist organisations?" Mandelker said. "I think it's extremely complicated for the Europeans to think that they're going to be able to do that ... Where we see sanctionable activity, we're going to take action to confront it." The United States and the U.N. nuclear watchdog believe Iran once had a nuclear weapons programme but abandoned it, while Iran denies ever having had one. (By Francois Murphy Additional reporting by John Irish in Paris; Editing by Kevin Liffey) The collapse of Venezuelan society under the dictatorial and socialist Maduro regime cannot fail to remind us of Iran under the Islamic Republic. Like Maduro, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has put the enrichment of his mafia clan and an exploitative revolutionary ideology before the needs of the Iranian people. Like Venezuela, Iran is experiencing black outs, water and food shortages, and collapse of order in parts of the country. And like Maduro, Khamenei uses the Basij, literally meaning Collectivos-or Maduros irregular armed forces- to instill fear in the population. But there are some key differences between the two as well. If Maduro falls, the U.S. can learn much from the successes and failures of its strategy and how they can be applied to Iran. Many Iranians, much like Venezuelans, are ready to rid themselves of their dictatorial regime, as mass protests, strikes and civil disobedience have shown in the last decade. And they welcome American support. As difficult as it may seem now, the path can open toward a future in which both the democratic Iranian opposition and its American and international friends can play a decisive role in bringing freedom to Iran. The key obstacle to change in Iran has been and will always be the massive and effective security forces. Khamenei spends billions upon billions of dollars on the Revolutionary Guards, the Basij, Law Enforcement Forces, and other official and unofficial security and repressive organizations. The Iraqi Hashd al Shaabi and Lebanese Hezbollah have also been recruited to maintain order in southwestern Iran, a region which recently experienced devastating floods. Khamenei has managed to create terror throughout Iran and maintain his rule through brute force despite widespread civil resistance. Maduro may be brutal, but Khameneis regime is the master of terror and violence. International organizations, including UN bodies, have amply recorded the gross violations of human rights for four decades of the Islamic Republic. Yet like Venezuelas military, the Iranian military, including the Revolutionary Guards and the conventional army, the Artesh, are reported to be experiencing deep dissatisfaction and even the inability to pay salaries of rank and file soldiers. Many members of the Artesh, a draftee armed force, are reported to be malnourished and even homeless. The Guards always fair better, but the virtual economic blockade being placed on Iran due to the regimes support for terrorism, among many other harmful policies, could translate into widespread dissatisfaction even within the inner sanctum of Khameneis Praetorian Guard. Lest we forget, there is precedent for defections within the highest echelons of the regime, as General Ali Reza Asgaris 2007 disappearance, widely reported to have been a defection - showed. It took some time, but eventually senior members of Maduros military did peel away. So may some of Khameneis top commanders, if the situation gets so bad in Iran that they see no other way out. Finally, Venezuela is lucky to have Juan Gerardo Guaido Marque, the opposition leader who has been recognized by more than fifty countries as President of Venezuela. A fearless young man, Guaido has become the brains and leading spirit of the revolt against Maduros dictatorship. Iran does not have a Guido, yet. But it does have a widespread and well networked opposition that may not always work in synch, but nevertheless keeps hammering at the legitimacy of Khameneis regime. And there are prominent personalities and groups within the opposition who are playing effective roles, including Prince Reza Pahlavi, Masih Alinejad, the new opposition group Iran Revival, countless women freedom activists, environmental activists, labor organizations, teachers unions, students, and even farmers, truckers, and gay rights activists. Khamenei is still strong. His men have the guns. But every day Iranian women refuse to comply with the compulsory hijab, crowds rescue them from being harassed by the morality police, and random dissidents shout slogans against the regime and in support of Pahlavi. Iranians want fundamental change- the disbanding of the Islamic Republic once and for all, to be replaced by a government of their own choosing. This can be achieved through an open and free national referendum, free elections, and an entirely new constitution. But Khamenei must go first. When the time comes and Iranians pour into the streets again, Washington should unequivocally side with the democratic opposition and its representatives. America must also leave a door open for defecting regime officials while it crafts a way to empower Iranians seeking freedom for their country. Iranians are closely watching Washingtons reaction to popular uprisings across the world, from Sudan to Algeria and Venezuela. Success in achieving freedom in Venezuela will boost Iranians enthusiasm and hope for positive change. But the U.S. should be less hesitant in siding with forces that will determine the future of Iran. Those forces will burst forth more powerful than ever before once Khamenei and the Guards tight grip on Iran weakens. That moment has not come yet, but the path to it is wide open. The opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Radio Farda Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: Academic and teaching staff and students of Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) met with Lightsource BP Group CEO Nick Boyle. Attended by Vice-President of BP Azerbaijan Bakhtiyar Aslanbeyli, the meeting aimed to brief BHOS students about the recent smart solar energy solutions and discuss prospects of potential areas for cooperation in Azerbaijan. In his welcoming speech, Rector of BHOS Elmar Gasimov expressed his pleasure at meeting the guest at the Higher School and noted that similar companies, which are fostering solar energy use, have the capacity to commercialise scientific research findings and, in a globalising world, sharing experiences in this area could be worthwhile for students and solar energy experts. Lightsource BP Group CEO Nick Boyle briefly informed about his company, which is specialised in delivering ambitious solar and storage projects. He expressed his firm belief that everyone should have access to durable energy sources and that inexhaustible solar energy is irreplaceable. Nick Boyle added that his company is accelerating low-carbon energy transition and pushing frontiers of solar solutions worldwide. He stressed that his company aims to play a major role in ensuring global energy security by commissioning 10 GW of solar capacity and reaching the companys renewable targets by 2023 worldwide. The meeting also served as an opportunity for students questions to get further insights into the prospects of renewables and sustainable energy. The discussion concluded by taking a photo with the guests. Rector Elmar Gasimov presented an Honorary Guest plaque to Nick Boyle and the guests toured the BHOS campus. Based in the UK, Lightsource BP is a global market leader in the development, acquisition and long-term management of solar projects and smart energy solutions. The company collaborates widely with various partners and mainly invests in utilities sector, education as well as land management and agriculture. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: Azerbaijani Embassy in Russia prevented an Armenian provocation at Moscow State University, Trend reports referring to the embassy. According to the embassy report, in recent days, information on the holding of meeting with the so-called fedayeens of the Karabakh war dedicated to so-called "the liberation day of Shusha" by the Armenian student association of the Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov (MSU) was posted on some social networks. "In this regard, the embassy turned to the Moscow State University and, a clear answer was received about the non-involvement of the respected university in this event, as well as the generally unacceptability of such events within the walls of Moscow State University. At the same time, taking into account the embassys concern in this matter, the management of the Moscow State University held a corresponding meeting with the organizers of the event, as a result of which information about the event was removed from social networks," the embassy noted. The embassy expresses gratitude to all representatives of the Azerbaijani public in Russia for expressing their civic position. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 25 times, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said on May 8, Trend reports. 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. Details added (first version posted on 11:16) Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: If the negotiations on the settlement of the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict dont lead to the end of the occupation, Azerbaijan retains its inherent rights under the UN Charter to ensure the restoration of its sovereignty and territorial integrity within the internationally recognized borders, reads a statement of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. The statement was issued on the 27th anniversary of occupation of the city of Shusha, Trend reports May 8 with reference to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry. Azerbaijan is the most interested party in the soonest negotiated settlement of the conflict, according to the statement. "The occupation of Shusha was part of Armenias systematic policy of occupation and aggression against Azerbaijan, reads the statement. As an outcome of this policy, Armenia by use of force occupied the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven adjacent districts of Azerbaijan, conducted notorious ethnic cleansing against more than one million Azerbaijanis in the seized territories and committed other serious war crimes and crimes against humanity. On May 8, 1992, the armed forces of the Republic of Armenia occupied a historical Azerbaijani city of Shusha, the statement said. As a result of occupation, Shusha city and 30 villages of Shusha district were destroyed, 195 innocent civilians were killed, 165 were wounded and 58 persons went missing. More than 24,000 inhabitants of Shusha were subjected to ethnic cleansing. Occupation of Shusha city known as Cradle of the Azerbaijani music, Conservatory of the Orient inflicted heavy damage to the cultural, spiritual and moral heritage of the people of Azerbaijan, according to the statement. As part of Armenias deliberate policy of destruction, plundering, desecration and embezzlement of cultural and religious heritage of Azerbaijan in the occupied territories, only in Shusha more than 170 buildings with the status of architectural monument, 160 cultural and historical monuments, mosques, rare manuscripts were destroyed and subjected to vandalism or artificial change of their appearance, the statement noted. The occupying Armenian side, following the ethnic cleansing conducted in course of Shusha's occupation, in contradiction to the requirements of international humanitarian law, destroys the historical and cultural heritage of Azerbaijan and gradually changes the cultural image of the city, reads the statement. Thus, about 4,000 people were illegally resettled in Shusha. The Yukhary Govheraga (Juma) Mosque, built by the order of Govharaga, the daughter of Karabakh ruler Ibrahim Khan, is being "restored" by the Armenians and is presented as a Persian one. But all these attempts have no prospects. The Armenian side has to understand that the occupation is temporary and the Nagorno-Karabakh region has always been and will remain inalienable part of Azerbaijan. The visit of the Armenian political leadership to the Shusha city, kept under military occupation by them and celebrating the so-called "victory day" is yet another provocation of the Armenian side and demonstrates once again the direct participation of Armenia in the occupation of the Azerbaijani territories, according to the statement. This step of the Armenian leadership proves once again that Armenia exercises the effective control over the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, as it is confirmed by the ruling of the European Court of Human Rights on Chiragov and others v. Armenia case of June 16, 2015, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry noted. The position of the international community is unequivocal: According to the position of all international organizations and states of the world, including the resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council, Nagorno-Karabakh is recognized as an integral part of Azerbaijan, reads the statement. The international community requires immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of occupying forces from all the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Elchin Mehdiyev Trend: A meeting was held in the Azerbaijani parliament between the members of the working group on interparliamentary relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia and the delegation of the Georgia-Azerbaijan parliamentary friendship group, which is on a visit to Baku, Trend reports on May 8. The delegation was led by Vice-Speaker of the Georgian Parliament Zviad Dzidziguri. Speaking at the meeting, head of the working group Aflatun Amashov stressed the positive development of relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia during the period of independence. The official meetings and bilateral visits between the two countries give positive results, he said. Amashov also emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation within international organizations and the role of interparliamentary relations in the development of multisectoral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia. In his turn, Dzidziguri expressed Georgias interest in further strengthening the ties with Azerbaijan and emphasized that the Georgian side always supports cooperation in various spheres, including trade, tourism and industry. He also characterized Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev as a very strong leader. During the meeting, MPs Ganira Pashayeva, Rasim Musabayov and Flora Karimova expressed deep concern over the erection of a monument in Georgia to separatist and terrorist Mikhail Avagyan, who was involved in the killings of civilians during the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The sides also exchanged the views on a number of issues in terms of the further development of bilateral relations. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: Azerbaijan and the EU are successfully cooperating on the basis of partnership, Hikmet Hajiyev, Head of the Department of Foreign Policy Affairs of the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, told Trend News Agency in Interview with Sahil Karimli while commenting on the Azerbaijan-EU relations. In this context, he stressed the Azerbaijani presidents visit to the EU headquarters in early 2017 and discussions held with President of the European Council Donald Tusk. "This allowed opening a new page in the relations between Azerbaijan and the EU, Hajiyev said. As a logical continuation of this process, a partnership document covering the priority areas of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the EU was signed in summer 2018, in which the EU expressed support for Azerbaijans territorial integrity and sovereignty. The priority areas of cooperation, the Southern Gas Corridor, humanitarian, political and other issues were also stressed, he said. Therefore, it is possible to say with confidence about the comprehensive development of relations between Azerbaijan and the EU." One of the important issues on the agenda is the draft of a new partnership agreement between Azerbaijan and the EU, Hajiyev added. "As an equal party, we continue to hold the dialogue and discussions with the EU, he said. The negotiations are underway. The EU delegation was on a visit to Azerbaijan on April 23-25 in connection with this agreement. As for the agreement, the document consists of political, sectoral and trade sections, Hajiyev said. Azerbaijan acts as an equal partner in the negotiation process on this agreement." He stressed that a number of participating countries receive donor assistance within the Eastern Partnership program. "Azerbaijan does not receive donor assistance from anyone and does not need it, Hajiyev said. We proceed only from the principle of mutually beneficial cooperation, which serves Azerbaijans interests. The existence of different opinions between the sides in this process is normal, he said. The EU is, in particular, the positions of 28 countries. There is a constructive atmosphere between the sides and the work is being carried out to bring different opinions together and find common ground. Here we are not pursuing a specific date, Hajiyev said. We continue to hold a constructive dialogue and cooperate to reach an agreement that will meet the interests of the sides and will cover the essence of our relations. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: Azerbaijan adheres to an approach consolidated with the Russian Federation in terms of preserving the historical memory of the role of the Soviet people in the victory over Nazism, countering attempts to falsify the history of the World War II and the glorification of Nazism, said the Russian Foreign Ministrys report entitled "On the situation with the glorification of Nazism, the spread of neo-nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance", Trend reports. "Azerbaijan voted in favor of the resolution of the UN General Assembly "Combating glorification of Nazism, neo-nazism and other practices that contribute to fuelling contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance" in 2018, the report said. There are virtually no manifestations of neo-nazism, racism, racial discrimination and xenophobia in Azerbaijan, the report said. The Azerbaijani leadership positions its country as a tolerant country for the representatives of various nations and religions." Committing a crime on the basis of national, racial, religious hatred according to the Azerbaijani Criminal Code is considered as an aggravating circumstance in sentencing, the report said. "The Azerbaijani Criminal Code also includes the articles envisaging punishment for the actions aimed at the complete or partial destruction of a national, ethnic, racial or religious group by killing members of this group (Article 103); prosecuting any group or organization upon political, racial, national, ethnic, cultural, religious reasons (Article 109), acts committed with the aim of organizing and ensuring the superiority of one racial group to oppress another racial group (Article 111); violation of equality of citizens depending on race, nationality, attitude to religion, language, gender, origin (Article 154), actions aimed at inciting national, racial, social or religious hatred and enmity, humiliation of national dignity, actions aimed at restriction of the rights of citizens or the establishment of superiority of citizens on the basis of their national or racial, social affiliation, attitude to religion (Article 283)," the report said. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: According to the law of the Azerbaijan Republic number 1356-VQD dated November 30, 2018 About Amendments to the Tax Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, more than 76 articles of the Tax Code have been amended. Amendments to the Tax Code are not always written in simple language, therefore many businesspeople have difficulty understanding them. Ekvita Company has been showing initiative to bring explanation of these changes to citizens considering the desire of the society. Generally, the amendments are very important and fundamental. These changes hase been made for the following 5 directions: Entrepreneurship support; Reducing the scale of tax evasion and "shadow economy"; Expansion of the tax base; Improvement of tax administration; Increasing the effectiveness of tax incentives. Considering the volume limitations of the article, we would like to talk about the changes on tax inspections, which is one of the most pressing issues of interest to us, businesspeople. We are bringing to your attention the following summary for these amendments. After January 1, 2019, documents and item samples will be allowed to take during operative tax control as well. Previously, that was not allowed under the Tax Code. After the amendments, documents and item samples can be taken during the working hours (actual working time) of taxpayers. Before the changes, it was only possible ta take documents and item samples in the daytime (from 08:00 to 20:00 p.m). Now, if a taxpayers working time or actual working time is during the night, documents and item samples can also be taken in the night. Head (deputy head) of the tax authority has to make more decisions than it used to be based on the results of the consideration of the field audit materials. Additionally, the following decisions can be made. Keeping in force the decision adopted under the previous tax audit result; Full or partial cancellation of the decision adopted under the previous tax audit result or making changes to the decision; Making a new decision. And, as you can see, the list of the decisions which the head (deputy head) of the tax authority has to make has been expanded. The above mentioned decisions are implemented in relation to the decisions adopted in the result of the consideration of the extraordinary field audit materials. According to the amendments, if there is a complaint to the Ministry of Taxes by the taxpayer within 30 calendar days from the date that the taxpayer reseved a notification on calculation of taxes, interests and financial sanctions (including a result of field audits) imposed by the tax authorities or if there is a relevant decision of the Ministry of Taxes, tax authorities will not give an order of executive (payment) documents to the credit organization or the person conducting banking transactions about deducting the debts for taxes, interests and financial sanctions (including the debts resulted from tax audits) from the taxpayers current or other accounts in national or foreign currency to the state budget.. This is a very progressive change. So, when the decisions under tax audits (desktop, field or operative) are not correct or they are groundless, taxpayers money will not be transferred to the state budget. That money will not removed from the business. According to the current changes, during inventory field audit or field audit the goods that should be marked with the binding markup, but unmarked, as well as religious literature (on paper and electronic media), audio and video materials, goods and articles and other informational materials of religious content that should be marked, but unmarked can be taken away. Again, it expands the powers of the tax authorities to conduct an inventory field audit. Consequently, some important changes have been made for the benefit of taxpayers. At the same time, the powers of the tax authorities regarding tax inspections have been increased. Gunel Hadiyeva -Tax Manager Samira Malikova -Tax Manager Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: On the occasion of the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the Victory over fascism, the military bands of Azerbaijan will organize performances in various parts of Baku from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on May 9, Trend reports referring to the Defense Ministry of the country. Military bands will perform at the following six places: - Baku Seaside Boulevard (in front of the Azadlig Square); - Heydar Aliyev Park next to the Ukrainian circle in the Ahmadli settlement; - Zarifa Aliyeva park; - Officers Park; - Yasamal Park (near LIDER TV channel) - Fountain Square. On the occasion of the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the Victory over fascism, the soldiers field kitchen will be deployed for guests at 12:00 on May 9 in the courtyard of the Organization of Veterans of War, Labor and Armed Forces of the Republic of Azerbaijan (address: 34, Kaverochkin Street, Narimanov district, Baku). The team of the Ideological and Cultural Center of the Azerbaijan Army named after Hazi Aslanov and the military bands will present a concert program. It is also planned to hold various events s part of the celebration of the 74th anniversary of the Victory over Fascism in Nakhchivan, Ganja, Shamkir, Sumgayit, Barda, Agdam, Terter, Beylagan, Lankaran, Gusar, and Khirdalan on May 9. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov informed OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger upon his own request about the results of the meeting among the Russian, Azerbaijani and Armenian foreign ministers held in Moscow on April 15 with the participation of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said. Zakharova made the remarks at the briefing, Trend reports. "Following the Moscow meeting it was stressed that Azerbaijan and Armenia are interested in the prospects of establishing cooperation in the humanitarian field, Zakharova said. The matter rests in the steps to further stabilize the situation in the conflict zone, in particular, it is about the agricultural work, providing opportunity for relatives of those held in custody on the territory of the sides [Azerbaijan and Armenia] to meet them. The readiness to begin practical work on establishing contacts between people, including reciprocal visits of mass media representatives, is also among these steps. In turn, Greminger confirmed the OSCEs intention to continue to support the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement," she said. On April 24, Lavrov met with Greminger, who was in Moscow to participate in the 8th Moscow Conference on International Security. The sides exchanged views on the OSCEs role in rendering assistance to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 9 Trend: Azerbaijan marks the Day of Victory in the Great Patriotic War on May 9. Years of the World War II were the most difficult in the 20th century for all the mankind. During the war, Azerbaijanis showed courage and heroism on the front line as well as on the home front. A battalion of 87 jet fighters and 1,224 self-defense groups were created in the country in a very short period of time. More than 600,000 Azerbaijanis were sent to the front between 1941 and 1945. Divisions from Azerbaijan marched from the Caucasus to Berlin. About 130 Azerbaijanis earned the name of the Hero of the Soviet Union, 30 more were awarded the Order of Honor. As many as 170,000 Azerbaijani soldiers and officers were awarded various USSR orders and medals. Hazi Aslanov, twice named the Hero of the Soviet Union, other heroes of the Soviet Union as Israfil Mammadov, Aslan Vazirov, Adil Guliyev, Ziya Bunyatov, Geray Asadov, Malik Maharramov and Mehdi Huseynzadeh, generals Mahmud Abilov, Akim Abbasov, Tarlan Aliyarbeyov, Hajibala Zeynalov and many others brought honor to the history of the Azerbaijani people. Much was done inside the country to direct the economy towards the front line. Light and food industries started working for the front. In a short period of time Baku turned into a real arsenal of a fighting army. Despite all the difficulties, Azerbaijani oilmen worked hard to supply the front line and the industry with fuel. During the war years, a new aviation fuel producing technology was created under supervision of Academician Yusif Mammadaliyev. With the hard work of the Azerbaijani oil workers, the oil production in Azerbaijan reached its peak in 1941 when 23.5 million tons of oil was produced, making up 71.4 percent of all the oil produced in the USSR. In total, the Azerbaijani oil workers gave the country 75 million tons of oil and 22 million tons of fuel during the years of war. Baku's oil was one of the main factors in gaining victory in the Great Patriotic War. It should be noted that four of five planes, tanks and cars ran on fuel from Baku. WWII once again proved the heroism and courage of the Azerbaijani people. After Azerbaijan gained independence, the participants of the WWII were not deprived of state care and attention. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signs orders every year to provide them with financial assistance. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed an Order in April 2019 under which participants of the World War Two, widows of those who died in or after the war, and persons who were awarded orders and medals for selfless labour on the home front got a one-off payment. Under the presidential Order, participants of the World War Two received a one-off payment of AZN1,000, while widows of those who died in or after the war, and persons who were awarded orders and medals for selfless labour on the home front, as well as holders of medals and badges for the defense of Leningrad and participants of the Siege of Leningrad got AZN500. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Fakhri Vakilov Trend: Uzbekistan Pochtasi JSC and the South Korean corporation Samsung Electronics signed a memorandum of cooperation, Trend reports with reference to the official website of the Uzbekistan Post. The parties approved the provisions that formed the basis for the signed memorandum during a meeting held back in April 2019. Samsung highly appreciates the initiative of Uzbekistan Pochtasi to introduce digital technologies into the postal infrastructure, the news report says. At the current stage, Samsung Electronics is ready to provide its own products for this project. The corporation will begin deliveries of mobile jobs for employees and postmen. This will be an important step in streamlining workflows and structure upgrades. Moreover, Samsung will train employees of the post service in management of the equipment. At the signing ceremony, Director General of Uzbekistan Pochtasi JSC Evgeny Birger and Vice-President of Samsung Electronics for Central Asia Sang Kim stressed the importance of such initiatives for both countries. --- Follow author on Twitter:@vakilovfaxri Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Matanat Nasibova - Trend: Products of the Baku Textile Factory will be exported under the trademarks Alpar and Banu, the director of the company Sakina Babayeva told Trend. She said that this applies only to finished textile items. We plan to start supplying finished products to foreign markets, since some samples of our companys products, which were demonstrated in the Trading Houses of Azerbaijan abroad, aroused interest among partners in Russia and in Arab countries, said Babayeva. The director noted that the factory has already received an application from the UAE regarding cooperation and exports. We have already sent samples of some varieties of textile products to the UAE, and we are waiting for the results, Babayeva said. The director added that the factory is also considering other areas of export supplies. She noted that the Baku Textile Factory employs 300 people and 7 production lines are involved at the factory. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @MatanatNasibova Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, May 8 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: A meeting was held with Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Industry, Energy and Subsoil Use of Kyrgyzstan, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, Trend reports referring to the Turkmen Foreign Ministry. Sagynbayev is also the co-chairman of the joint Turkmen-Kyrgyz Intergovernmental Committee. The parties discussed the possibilities of expanding trade, economic and investment cooperation and stressed the need to increase the volume of trade. The importance of business contacts between the two states was also emphasized during the meeting. In turn, the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (UIET) reports that large-scale investment projects implemented by domestic entrepreneurs, including those in the transport sector, developing the country's natural resources, developing the fishing industry, and tourism, were discussed during the meeting with Sagynbayev. It was reported earlier that Kyrgyzstan is negotiating the possibility of receiving natural gas from a future branch of the Turkmenistan-China pipeline for providing the southern regions of of the country with gas. Zhyrgalbek Sagynbayev told local media that it is necessary to conduct additional negotiations with all the countries participating in the project in order to resolve the issue. The construction of the 4th branch "D" of the Turkmenistan-China gas pipeline via Kyrgyzstan is scheduled to commence by late 2019. Overall, the new branch "D" is intended for the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan-China route. At present, 3 branches of the pipeline on the route Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan-China (branches "A", "B", "C") have been built and functioning. They are to supply 40 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year altogether. The additional branch's rate of flow is expected to be 25 billion cubic meters of gas, which will allow Turkmenistan to bring the volume of its natural gas exports to China to 65 billion cubic meters annually. It was reported earlier that, as of December 2018, more than 250 billion cubic meters of Turkmen gas had been exported to China since December 2009. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Fakhri Vakilov - Trend: The Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade of Uzbekistan has proposed to abolish cement import benefits, which were introduced in January 2018, Trend reports with reference to Esmerk CIS News. The government suggested that the abolition of the benefits will create a competitive market and lead to more efficient production of building materials in the country. Uzbekistans leading supplier of imported cement is Kazakhstan, which supplied 1500 tons of cement in November 2018. As of April 2019, cement plants were under construction in Angren and Samarkand, with the latter project attracting $420million Chinese investment. Start of production is scheduled for mid-2020. --- Follow author on Twitter:@vakilovfaxri Title changed, details added (first version posted on 13:28) Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Kheyraddin Nasirzade - Trend: The World Bank Group - through IFC - joins efforts with the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan to improve the countrys investment climate and boost agribusiness competitiveness, helping diversify the economy and spur job creation, Trend reports. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, today signed three cooperation agreements with Azerbaijans Ministries of Economy and of Agriculture, and the Food Safety Agency, as well as three memorandums of understandingwith the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population, the Commission on Business Climate and International Rankings, and the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication. The Azerbaijan Investment Climate and Agribusiness Competitiveness project, implemented by IFC and supported by the Government of Switzerland through the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and Austrias Ministry of Finance, aims to help ease doing business and attract investment to Azerbaijans non-oil economy. Azerbaijan is already seeing the positive results of recent social-economic reforms and there are more to come. We are committed to continuing our efforts in diversifying the economy and developing non-oil sectors, including through our continued cooperation with IFC and benefiting from its global experience, said Yagub Eyyubov, Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The agreements aim to help further streamline licensing and inspections regulations, support the government in developing an investment policy and promotion framework and implementing a national FDI strategy. The project will also help address challenges in the agribusiness sectoran important source of jobs and key to boosting non-oil growthby enhancing access to quality seeds, streamlining regulations along agribusiness value chains, and modernizing the national food safety management system, to help reduce the administrative burden on the private sector and increase food exports. Simone Haeberli, (Chargee dAffaires of Embassy of Switzerland, Deputy Regional Director of Swiss Cooperation Office for the South Caucasus) said: A healthy business environment and a conducive investment climate are key to private sector development and economic growth. At this stage in the ongoing reform process, we have witnessed and continue to witness that private sector development is a key priority for Azerbaijan and enjoys full support of the countrys leadership. Switzerland stands ready to further support the government of Azerbaijan in its efforts to develop a new economic model. To ensure a sustainable and resilient economy, the country needs to tap into new sources of growth, and we are glad to see the government taking steps in this direction, said Jan van Bilsen, IFC Senior Regional Manager for the Caucasus and the Russian Federation. Our advisory program aims to help local businesses grow, attract foreign investments to Azerbaijan and make regulations more business-friendly for local private companies, helping them expand and create more jobs. Azerbaijan became a member of IFC in 1995. Since then, IFC has invested around $473 million, including $73 million in mobilization, financing 56 projects across a range of sectors, including financial services, infrastructure, and manufacturing. In addition, IFC has supported around $100 million in trade through its trade finance program and provided $250 million for the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. IFC has also implemented a range of advisory projects aimed at encouraging private sector growth. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Fakhri Vakilov- Trend: President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier will visit Khiva and the Aral Sea region during his visit to Uzbekistan, which is scheduled for the end of May, Trend reports on May 8 citing Kun.uz. The visit is intended to promote the intensification of the Uzbek-German cooperation in all directions. Given the processes of liberalization and modernization of the economy in Uzbekistan, as well as technological and innovative capabilities of Germany, we particularly look forward to further expand mutually beneficial cooperation in the trade, economic and investment spheres, a spokesperson of the Uzbek embassy in Germany said. It was noted that the forthcoming visit of the President of Germany is an opportunity for the continuation, at the highest level, of the trustful and constructive political dialogue begun in Berlin and for the further promotion of relations between the countries. Earlier Trend reported that during the official visit to Germany in mid-January, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev invited Frank-Walter Steinmeier to visit Uzbekistan on a return visit. "The president will be accompanied by numerous representatives of German business circles", reads the news report. The visit agenda includes bilateral talks in Tashkent, familiarization with the sights of Khiva and the visit to the Aral Sea region. The embassy's spokesperson also noted that Uzbekistan is counting on the support of Germany in attracting world attention to the Aral Sea problem in order to facilitate the efforts of the Government of Uzbekistan for the elimination of its environmental and socio-economic consequences and support the activities of the multi-partner trust fund established by the country on human security for the Aral Sea region under the auspices of the United Nations. --- Follow author on Twitter:@vakilovfaxri Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Aysham Rustamova Trend: The Azerbaijani company Mugan Duyu intends to export rice to Russia, deputy director of the company Etibar Salimov told Trend on May 8. The company will export rice for the first time, he said. "We started to plant rice in Bilasuvar, Lankaran and Astara districts. Rice has already been planted in a 200-hectare-area but a little bit late due to cold weather in April. The company produced 2,000 tons of rice in 2018, but this year the company intends to double these figures and bring them up to 5,000 tons, Salimov said. While speaking about the current problems, he stressed that there is a need in the country to enlighten people about rice consumption. We produce rice in the country, Salimov said. However, the populations needs for rice are greatly met through the imported rice despite the quality of local rice is much higher." Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Elnur Baghishov Trend: Iranian airlines need $50 million a month to meet their needs, secretary of the Association of Iranian Airlines Masoud Asadi Samani said. Besides this amount, additional funds are required to buy aircraft, Samani added, Trend reports referring to Mehr News Agency. Taking into account that the sanctions are toughened, it is almost impossible for the airlines to buy the required spare parts, he said. Samani added that currently, in the case of revealing any defect in spare parts of the aircraft, the company has to immediately sell the aircraft. However, the order registration process for the sale hampers this issue, he said. The US imposed sanctions on Iran in November 2018. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Kheyraddin Nasirzade Trend: The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has been supporting the Azerbaijani private sector for over 20 years and has invested $500 million within this period, IFC Chief Regional Manager for the South Caucasus and Russia Jan van Bilsen told Trend. Bilsen said that the investments worth $350 million were directed for trade financing. The investments were also made in the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, he added. Bilsen stressed that the analysis of the recent economic processes observed in Azerbaijan testifies to the need for a bigger focus on the private sector rather than on natural resources. In particular, the project entitled "Formation of the investment environment and competition in agribusiness" was launched to increase the competition in the Azerbaijani agribusiness through IFCs organizational support and financial assistance from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Austrian Ministry of Finance, he said. This is an important step to maintain the development of the business environment and competition in the Azerbaijani agribusiness sector, which ultimately will have a positive impact on the development of the non-oil sector as a whole, Bilsen noted. He emphasized that by expanding economic development, Azerbaijan has more focused on the development of small and medium-sized businesses, which is in line with the regional plans of the World Bank (WB). At the same time, Bilsen stressed the necessity to create equal conditions for all entrepreneurs of small and medium-sized businesses, which is an important component in shaping the business environment. The recent reforms carried out in Azerbaijan in the field of private sector regulation have yielded results, which has been outlined in the WB Doing Business 2019 report, where Azerbaijan ranks 25th, he said. Having carried out reforms in eight out of ten categories, Azerbaijan ranked first in the report in terms of the number of the conducted reforms. The three-year project on the investment environment and competition in the agribusiness sector describes Azerbaijan as a loyal and reliable partner, Bilsen added. In turn, IFC will support all the efforts of Azerbaijan, which has great potential. He continued by saying that the corporation recommends to create an effective system based on checking and monitoring all the risks of the companies, which will lead to the improvement of inspection systems and regulatory impact assessment. The countrys agribusiness will receive advanced experience in the field of competition, which will reduce administrative and budgetary expenses, Bilsen commented. At the same time, this will create the conditions for maintaining public interest in this sphere and equal conditions for entrepreneurs. In his words, this project will further contribute to the flow of investments into the country, in particular, in the non-oil sector. The project will also help to improve the legal and administrative framework. This project is aimed at the development of agribusiness due to the big agricultural potential of Azerbaijan, which is intensively developing the export-oriented agricultural sector, Bilsen said. As a result of the implementation of this project, the competitiveness of Azerbaijani agricultural products will be improved. In this regard, it is necessary to eliminate current problems, improve regulation and the food safety system, which will lead to the creation of new job places. Bilsen said that, as the share of agriculture comprises 40 percent of Azerbaijans economy, IFC intends to fully support Azerbaijan for revealing its agricultural potential. According to him, the reforms have been carried out in Azerbaijan within the existing cooperation, and IFC is ready to contribute to the improvement of indicators and render support for the development of the country. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @1nasirzade Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Sara Israfilbayova Trend: Since early 2019, the Entrepreneurship Development Fund of Azerbaijan (EDF) has provided 345 businessmen with preferential loans worth 37 million manats for financing investment projects worth 98.6 million manats, Deputy Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Sahib Mammadov said at a business forum in the city of Guba, Trend reports referring to the Ministry of Economy. According to Mammadov, the implementation of these investment projects will allow for opening more than 1,400 jobs. The deputy minister noted that 65 percent of concessional loans were directed to the development of the agrarian sector, and 35 percent to the production and processing of various industrial goods. Speaking of the work done, the deputy minister said that, until today, 2,700 entrepreneurs of the Guba-Khachmaz economic region have been allocated preferential loans worth 204.1 million manats for the implementation of various investment projects. During the meeting held as part of the forum, preferential loans worth 1.5 million manats were allocated to 27 entrepreneurs of the Guba-Khachmaz economic region. The loans will be used to finance projects in such fields as animal husbandry, fishing and packaging of fruits and vegetables. The implementation of these projects will contribute to the creation of 70 workplaces. Until now, preferential loans worth 46.8 million manats have been allocated for financing 29 intensive vegetable and grain farms. This year, the fund plans to issue soft loans worth 160 million manats. The EDF was established under the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan in 1992. ($1=1.7 AZN on May 8) --- Follow the author on Twitter: @IsrafilbekovaS Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Leman Zeynalova Trend: EastMed pipeline, which envisages transportation of East Mediterranean resources to Greece via Cyprus and Crete, could join the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) that will deliver Azerbaijani gas to Europe, said Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte. Talking about the construction of Poseidon pipeline, the final leg of EastMed, he said that Italy is not prepared to allow the Poseidon pipeline landfall in the southern city of Otranto but the infrastructure to deliver East Mediterranean Sea gas could join the TAP pipeline, Trend reports citing Reuters. We are currently not open to allow the pipeline landfall as originally planned, Conte said. The structure is consistent with a connection with TAP and could have a link in Italy. The government is certainly not interested at present in building the final tract of Poseidon as originally planned. The Eastern Mediterranean (EastMed) pipeline project relates to an offshore/onshore natural gas pipeline, directly connecting East Mediterranean resources to Greece via Cyprus and Crete. The project is designed to transport up to 16 billion cubic meters of gas per year from the off-shore gas reserves in the Levantine Basin (Cyprus and Israel) as well as from the potential gas reserves in Greece. TAP project, worth 4.5 billion euros, is one of the priority energy projects for the European Union (EU). The project envisages transportation of gas from Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz Stage 2 to the EU countries. Connecting with the Trans Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) at the Greek-Turkish border, TAP will cross Northern Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea before coming ashore in Southern Italy to connect to the Italian natural gas network. The project is currently in its construction phase, which started in 2016. Once built, TAP will offer a direct and cost-effective transportation route opening up the vital Southern Gas Corridor, a 3,500-kilometer long gas value chain stretching from the Caspian Sea to Europe. TAP shareholders include BP (20 percent), SOCAR (20 percent), Snam S.p.A. (20 percent), Fluxys (19 percent), Enagas (16 percent) and Axpo (5 percent). --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Sara Israfilbayova - Trend: Azerbaijan may host the 24th World Petroleum Congress in 2023, Azerbaijans Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at a meeting of the National Oil Committee in Baku on May 8, Trend reports. The minister noted that a lot of responsibility falls upon the National Oil Committee in terms of Bakus getting support for holding this event. In turn, Azerbaijans Deputy Energy Minister Elnur Soltanov during his speech noted that the candidacy of the city where the 24th World Petroleum Congress will be held will be determined by secret ballot this June in St. Petersburg (Russia). In addition to Azerbaijan, Canada, the UAE, Argentina and Kazakhstan are also pretending to host the congress. The World Petroleum Congress is one of the most important events in the oil and gas industry, held by the Permanent Council of the World Petroleum Congress. Every three years, thousands of specialists from all over the world gather at this forum in order to get acquainted with the most modern technologies of oil and gas production and methods of managing this business. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: On May 3, 2019, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on Amendments to the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan 1315 dated April 5, 2017 "On Additional Measures to Increase Transparency and Accountability in Extractive Industry", Trend reports referring to the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Under the decree, the new composition of the Extractive Industries Transparency Commission (hereinafter referred to as - the Commission) has been expanded. Thus, along with the Executive Director (Chairman) of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Deputy Ministers of Energy, Tax, Finance, Economy, Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Deputy Chairman of the State Statistical Committee, the Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Protection of the Republic of Azerbaijan has also been included to the Commission. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Sara Israfilbayova Trend: The further fate of the oil market will depend on the decision of OPEC+ on the extension of the deal on freezing production, Vasily Tanurkov, director of the Corporate Ratings Group at Russias Analytical Credit Rating Agency (ACRA), told Trend. The director noted that much depends on the outcome of the US-China trade negotiations. "The situation worsened last weekend after Donald Trump's decision to increase duties for Chinese imports from 10 to 25 percent in the amount of $200 billion and the threats of imposing duties of 25 percent on all other imports from China to the US," Tanurkov said. He further noted that Trumps decision could lead to the breakdown of negotiations, the next round of which was scheduled for May 8. The expert believes that the escalation of trade war risks leading to a slowdown in the growth of the global economy and a corresponding slowdown in the growth of demand for oil. The next important factor is the growth of production in the US, which will stimulate the commissioning of new pipeline capacities during the second half of this year, and further in 2020-2021. "Average daily production in the US increased from 11.7 million barrels per day by late December 2018 to 12.3 million barrels per day as of late April. Production growth is expected to accelerate significantly as infrastructure problems are resolved and production can reach 13.4 million barrels per day by the end of this year," he said. According to Tanurkov, the development of the situation around Iranian oil exports will also play a role. "Exemptions from US sanctions for importers of Iranian oil were in force till May 4. A full-scale imposition of sanctions could lead to a drop in Iranian exports ranging from 400,000 to 1 million barrels per day at worst," Tanurkov noted. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Ilhama Isabalayeva Trend: Travel companies in Azerbaijan are planning to expand the process of granting tour packages on credit, Nahid Baghirov, chairman of the Azerbaijan Tourism Association (AzTA) told Trend. According to him, banks significantly reduced the provision of loans for tourist trips after the devaluation of Azerbaijani manat in 2015. Noting that work for the expansion of this process is underway, Baghirov added that, in the near future, customers of tourism companies which are members of AzTA will be able to purchase tour packages without prior payment. Citizens will repay the costs of the tour packages by means of transfers to a bank account within a maximum of a 1-year period. The chairman added that the proposed loan percentage will be profitable. At the preliminary stage, the provision of tour packages on credit will concern 20 companies that are members of AzTA, but their number will gradually grow. Baghirov also said that customers can use tour packages on credit for any destination and without price restrictions. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, May 8 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: The 11th meeting of the Intergovernmental Turkmen-Russian Commission for Economic Cooperation was held in Ashgabat on May 8, Trend reports with reference to the Turkmen Foreign Ministry. The Russian side was represented by Deputy Prime Minister Konstantin Chuichenko and Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin. The parties considered joint projects, issues of the activities of Russian companies in Turkmenistan, as well as prospects for cooperation in the industrial, construction, transport, oil and gas, gas chemical and electric power industries, the report said. The subject of cooperation between the relevant ministries and departments of the two countries and the process of implementing trade operations were touched upon. The agenda also included cooperation issues in such important areas as the agro-industrial complex and the supply of agricultural equipment, construction, interaction among business structures and the introduction of advanced technologies. At the end of the meeting, a ceremony of signing bilateral documents, including the memorandum on the establishment of the Turkmen-Astrakhan joint council on entrepreneurship, was held. Turkmenistan has been recently actively developing business relations with the subjects of Russia, including Tatarstan Republic, the Sverdlovsk region and St. Petersburg city. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, May 8 By Huseyn Hasanov Trend: Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new social-industrial complex in the area around the Altyn Asyr lake, Trend reports with reference to the Turkmenistan State News Agency. The area is located in the Balkan region of Turkmenistan. The concept for the development of the area around the artificial lake Altyn Asyr in 2019-2025 has been approved. The project includes construction of social infrastructure, production facilities, livestock, fish breeding and agricultural complexes. This unique structure, located in the center of the Karakum desert, besides its ecological and national economic mission, is of tremendous social importance, the whole extent of which is difficult to be assessed, since this mega-project implies a long-term multiplicative effect. This project is estimated at several billion US dollars. This cave is located in the territory of the Balkan region, and it holds about 580 million cubic meters of accumulated water there. The water can also be used on lands that are resistant to salinization, and the work can be intensified to develop fisheries, animal breeding, in particular, camel breeding in areas adjacent to the lake. The collector-drainage discharges formed within the Mary, Akhal and Balkan regions previously accumulated in the lowlands of Karakum sands, flooding and, among other things, reducing the desert pastures. Turkmen scientists believe that the creation of a large artificial reservoir in Karakum will improve the reclamation state of irrigated areas of Turkmenistan, increase the productivity of agriculture and prevent soil salinization. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: On May 8, 2019, a briefing was held in the framework of the events dedicated to the foundation laying of the new, social-production complex in Serdar province of the Balkan region, Trend reports with reference to Turkmenistans Embassy in Baku. This event was organized with the aim of informing the larger community about the Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr, including its significance in the sphere of environment protection and development of social-economic system of Turkmenistan and the region in general. The high-level foreign guests, heads and representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Turkmenistan, international organizations and programs, international experts, as well as the representatives of national and foreign mass media took part in the briefing. The authorized representatives of UN agencies and OSCE gave speeches during the briefing where they specifically noted the significance and scale of the man-made Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr that is being constructed in the heart of the Karakum valley. Then the Scientific-practical conference was held dedicated to the importance of Turkmen Lake which is a grand hydro-technical project aimed at the amelioration of environment, including the rational use of water and land resources. The key officials of Turkmen higher educational institutions, scholars, experts, as well as the representatives of national mass media attended the conference. During the conference, it was noted that Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr will undoubtedly make a vital input to the development of social and economic system of the country. After the events, the excursion by boat and bus along the Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr was organized for the participants of the event that was also complemented by a promenade. Here, the participants could get acquainted firsthand with the transformations in the Karakum valley that took place after the construction of the reservoir that is being replenished by wastewaters from the agricultural fields of the country. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Elnur Baghishov - Trend: The Supreme National Security Council of Iran has issued a statement to the members of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Trend reports via ISNA. Iran will suspend some of its commitments within the nuclear deal starting from today, according to the statement. Iran will suspend its commitments on storage of already enriched uranium and heavy water reserves at this stage, reads the statement. The Supreme National Security Council of Iran said it gives 60 days to the countries remaining in the nuclear deal to fulfill their commitments, especially in the banking and oil sectors. If the JCPOA member countries meet the requirements of Iran, the country will resume implementing its commitments within the nuclear deal at the same time and to the same extent, the statement said. The JCPOA, signed between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, UK, Russia, China, France and Germany), was put in force in January 2016. The US announced its withdrawal from the deal In May 2018 and imposed sanctions on Iran in November of the same year. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 By Elnur Baghishov - Trend: If the members of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) dont meet Irans demands, after 60 days the country will stop complying with its commitments regarding the level of uranium enrichment, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, Trend reports via Khabar TV. Rouhani said that Iran doesnt abandon the JCPOA. However, Iran suspends fulfilling a number of commitments in the nuclear deal because other parties to the deal dont fulfill their commitments, he noted. If the demands arent met, after 60 days Iran wont comply with its commitment regarding the uranium enrichment at the rate of 3.67 percent, and will reconsider its obligations under the Arak Nuclear Reactor, he said. Rouhani said that Iran will suspend its commitments on storage of already enriched uranium and heavy water reserves at this stage. He added that Iran is ready to negotiate with the remaining five countries in the nuclear deal on its better implementation. Iran has sent a message to the remaining five countries in the nuclear deal that urgent measures will be taken if this step of Iran is used as a pretext to submit Irans case to the UN Security Council, he said. The JCPOA, signed between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, UK, Russia, China, France and Germany), was put in force in January 2016. The US announced its withdrawal from the deal In May 2018 and imposed sanctions on Iran in November of the same year. Baku, Azerbaijan, May 8 Trend: The Azerbaijani community of the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan has issued a statement on the 27th anniversary of the occupation of Shusha by the armed forces of Armenia, Trend reports May 8. Commenting on the statement, deputy chairman of the Coordination Council of the Azerbaijani Community of the Nagorno-Karabakh Region of Azerbaijan, professor Elchin Ahmadov said that Armenians, occupying the historical lands of Azerbaijan over the past two hundred years, in order to create a Great Armenia, committed genocide, terrorism, deportation and ethnic cleansing against the people of Azerbaijan in 1905-1906, 1918-1920, 1948-1953, 1988-1993. In the second half of the 80s of the 20th century, Armenia made territorial claims to Azerbaijan regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which is an integral part of Azerbaijan, Ahmadov said. At the same time, on December 1, 1989 the Soviet Socialist Republic of Armenia violated the sovereignty of Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic, adopted the decision, joining the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast (NKAO) to the Armenia SSR which was contrary to the Constitution of Azerbaijan. In 1988-1992, the armed forces of Armenia occupied over 30 settlements in Nagorno-Karabakh where Azerbaijanis lived. On February 26, 1992 Khojaly genocide which happened before the eyes of the whole world, was a bloody page of this occupation policy. At the end of the 20th century Armenia, creating mono-ethnic state, occupied Nagorno-Karabakh and Lachin, Kalbajar, Aghdam, Fuzuli, Jabrayil, Gubadli, outside of the Nagorno-Karabakh region and nowadays 20 percent of territory of Azerbaijan are under the occupation, he noted. All these territories underwent ethnic cleansing by Armenia. As a result of this occupation more than one million Azerbaijanis became IDPs from the occupied territories. In consequence, the occupation policy pursued by Armenians was accompanied by massacres, 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed, 50,000 persons became disabled getting injuries of various degrees. Among these crimes 27 years ago - on May 8, 1992- as a result of the military aggression of the armed forces of Armenia, Shusha, an ancient centre of culture of Azerbaijan, and its 30 villages, were occupied and destroyed, 195 civilians were killed, 165 wounded, 43 lost, there is no information about the fate of 58 people, Ahmadov added. As a result, over 24,000 people of the population of the Shusha district became IDPs and live in 58 districts of Azerbaijan, he said. He added that over 170 architectural monuments and 160 historical and cultural monuments in Shusha were destroyed, also historic monuments, mausoleum and mosques were desecrated, and many rare manuscripts were destroyed. Generally, in 1988-1993 as a result of Armenia's military aggression historical, architectural and religious monuments of Azerbaijan, including more than 600 historical and architectural monuments, 144 temples and 67 mosques were completely destroyed by the armed forces of Armenia, he said. At the same time, 40,000 exhibits of 22 museums, 4,600 books and valuable historical manuscripts from 927 libraries, were destroyed as well as precious examples of historical heritage of Azerbaijan were stolen from museums and later sold at different auctions. On the 27th anniversary of the occupation of Shusha by the armed forces of Armenia, more than 80,000 Azerbaijanis of Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan as well as 34,000 Azerbaijanis of Shusha district urge international community to support Azerbaijans justified position in achieving objective political and legal assessment of the ongoing acts of aggression against the Azerbaijani people, he noted. We urge the international community and international organizations to put an end to the destruction of the historical, architectural and religious monuments of Azerbaijan, and this occupation, he said. We demand from all international organizations to carry out humanism ideas, and take effective measures in order to expose the occupation policy of Armenia. At the same time, for the voice of more than one million people to be heard, and for the restoration of the violated rights of the Azerbaijanis, the criminal acts of Armenians must be internationally condemned. We believe that the fair settlement of the conflict is possible after the withdrawal of the armed forces of Armenia from the occupied territories and returning of more than 80,000 Azerbaijanis expelled from the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan to the native lands, he added. We believe that the Armenian and Azerbaijani communities of Nagorno-Karabakh will live in peace and reconciliation within the borders and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Only in this case, sustainable and fair peace can be provided in the region. 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. Toyota Motor forecast lower growth in operating profit for the current year on an expected drop in revenue and weaker vehicle sales in Japan and North America, underscoring the hard task ahead as it gears up to face a rapidly shifting industry, reports Trend citing to Reuters Japans largest automaker said it expects profit to rise 3.3 percent to 2.55 trillion yen ($23.20 billion) in the year to March 2020, slightly lower than the 2.61 trillion yen average of 23 analyst estimates compiled by Refinitiv and compared to last years 20 percent jump. While it forecast global group retail sales at a record 10.74 million vehicles for the current year, compared with 10.6 million in the previous year, Japan sales were seen down 1.2 percent and North American sales down 1.6 percent. Net revenue was forecast to slip to 30 trillion yen from 30.2 trillion yen. Toyota, like its rivals, is facing stiff competition as ride-sharing technology and the race to develop self-driving cars has caused rapid - and costly - disruption to the auto industry. We still werent able to improve our costs enough last year, CFO Koji Kobayashi told reporters. We need to work to find new ways to cut costs this year. Toyota has recently outlined plans to offer automakers and auto suppliers royalty-free access to nearly 24,000 electrified vehicle technologies patented by it. In the last 20 years, Toyota has managed to dominate the global market for hybrid cars by constantly improving and lowering the cost of the technology it pioneered in its Prius model - and keeping this expertise a closely guarded secret. Now, it says it aims to use partnerships to cut by as much as half the outlays for expanded electric and hybrid vehicle components production in the United States, China and Japan. Toyotas operating profit forecast is based on the assumption that the yen will trade around 110 to the U.S. dollar in the current financial year, compared with 111 yen in the year just ended. The company also said it would buy back 300 billion yen worth of its shares through September. Iraq oil minister Thamer Ghadhban said on Wednesday he expects his ministry to sign an initial deal with Exxon Mobil and PetroChina very soon, but did not give a specific date, reports Trend citing to Reuters We have managed to take a step forward in resolving some lingering issues in the deal, Ghadhban said at an oil ministry event. Once the talks end, the initial deal will be studied by the ministerial energy committee before referring it to cabinet for approval, Ghadhban added. On Tuesday, Iraqs Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said Iraq was close to signing the 30-year energy agreement with both companies, for $53 billion. Iraq expects to make $400 billion over the 30 years the deal is in effect, the prime minister said. The southern mega-project involves the development of the Nahr Bin Umar and Artawi oilfields and an increase in production from the two fields to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from around 125,000 bpd now, Abdul Mahdi said. Ghadhban said on Wednesday the deal with Exxon and PetroChina would allow Iraq to generate 750 million standard cubic feet of gas from the two oilfields per year. Russia expects the 2015 Iran nuclear deals European signatories to fulfil their obligations under the pact, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday, reports Trend citing to Reuters Speaking after talks in Moscow with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, Lavrov told reporters the situation around the nuclear deal was making it hard for Tehran to fulfil its obligations. The British government is working to reach a Brexit agreement with the opposition Labour Party which can win the support of parliament, Prime Minister Theresa May said on Wednesday, reports Trend referring to Reuters Talks between Labour and the government are due to continue on Wednesday in a bid to break the parliamentary deadlock over the way forward on Brexit. We are indeed talking with the Labour Party. We are working on agreement that can command the majority of this House of Commons, May told parliament. Eugene Gologursky/Getty Images for BOMBAY SAPPHIRERussell Simmons is asking fans to send prayers up for Kurtis Blow, after revealing the pioneering rapper had to undergo emergency open heart surgery. Tuesday, the embattled music mogul took to Instagram to share the news about his longtime friend. "Please put @kurtisblow THE ORIGINAL 'KING OF RAP' back into your prayers," Simmons began his lengthy caption. "He has been called to second emergency open heart surgery." He added: "Kurtis Blow is a survivor, but this is not good. Lets all give him the prayers and our blessings." A few short hours later, Simmons shared an update from Blow's wife Shirley Stewart. Kurtiss heart is beating on its own, Stewart informed Simmons. They are closing should finished closing in less than 2 hours. The alarming health update arrives less than a week after Blow was admitted to UCLA to repair his aortic artery. As previously reported, the initial surgery was the result of the veteran lyricist experiencing a hematoma following his travels to China. Last week, Blow shared with fans that the procedure was a "tremendous success" and he had begun physical therapy. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Finlands Social Democrats said on Wednesday they would seek a center-left governing coalition with the Centre Party and three smaller partners following a parliamentary election last month, reports Trend referring to Reuters The Social Democrats (SDP) came out on top in the April 14 election for the first time in 20 yeas but with a record low 17.7 percent of the vote, forcing them to ally with other parties to form a government. SDP chairman Antti Rinne said he would work on forming a coalition with outgoing Prime Minister Juha Sipilas Centre Party as his main partner, while other partners would be the Greens, the Left Alliance and the Swedish Peoples Party. If Rinne secures the coalition behind a joint program, he would steer Finland a step leftward after Sipilas center-right government, which included the right-leaning National Coalition. He would also succeed in keeping the nationalist, eurosceptic Finns Party, which came second in the election at 17.5 percent, only 0.2 percent behind the SDP, out of the government despite a rapid growth in their popularity. The Finns Party made rapid gains in the polls ahead of the elections and scored first with 18.7 percent in the first post-election survey by Finlands largest daily Helsingin Sanomat on Monday. Rinne said his five-party coalition would hold 117 seats in the 200-seat parliament. If we succeed in our government talks to draft a program that satisfies this team, it means well have a clear majority government emerging in Finland, he told reporters. The Centre Party came fourth in the election with 13.8 percent, a 100-year low. But Rinne, a former union boss, said he believed it would be easier to agree a joint program with the party than with the pro-austerity National Coalition. In his election campaign, Rinne promised tax hikes to preserve Finlands vast public welfare state, while the National Coalition sought to lower taxes to stimulate the economy. The National Coalitions chairman and Finlands outgoing finance minister Petteri Orpo said he understood Rinnes choice. Orpo said his partys views on the economy, employment and fiscal policy were decidedly far from how (Rinne) sees this ensemble, he said. But finding common ground with Sipila, who as premier wanted to cut costs and debt, is unlikely to prove easy for Rinne. Rinne said he hoped to conclude talks by May 24 and have the government nominated in the first days of June, ahead of Finlands EU presidency that begins July 1. Militants have violated ceasefire regime in the Syrian provinces of Aleppo, Idlib and Latakia over the past 24 hours, the head of the Russian Defence Ministry's Centre for Syrian Reconciliation, Maj. Gen. Viktor Kupchishin, said, Trend reported citing Sputnik. "The situation in the Idlib de-escalation zone remains tense. Violations of ceasefire by the illegal armed groups operating there continue", Kupchishin said at a briefing, adding that the breaches were registered in three Syrian provinces. The Russian centre has also delivered 500 food packages to the residents of the Syrian eastern province of Deir ez-Zor. An Air France Airbus A-340-313 heading from Paris to Mumbai disappeared from radars half-way to its destination over Iran after issuing a distress signal, according to data from Flightradar24, Trend reports citing Sputnik. Iranian authorities on Wednesday confirmed the emergency landing of French Flight AF218, en route to Mumbai, India from the French capital, after the aircraft disappeared from radars. Mansoor Glass, director general of the Isfahan Governor's Crisis Management Department, told IRNA that all passengers on board were in good health and were being treated in hospital. The Iranian media outlet hasnt specified what was behind the emergency landing. AF218 plane has disappeared from radars after starting to descend due to an unknown reason near the city of Isfahan in central Iran, according to Flightradar24. "Live flight not found. Flight AF218 is currently not tracked by Flightradar24. Its either out of coverage or has already landed", the flight tracking website says. The plane that left Paris at 11:21am was scheduled to arrive in Mumbai at midnight. Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said that Iraq will sign a deal worth 53 billion U.S. dollars with U.S. company Exxon Mobil and China's PetroChina to increase its oil production, Trend reported citing Xinhua. "The government supports the (Iraqi) Ministry of Oil to sign an agreement with Exxon Mobil and PetroChina which valued 53 billion dollars, which is a mega-project," Abdul Mahdi told a press conference after the weekly cabinet meeting. The project "is related to pumping sea water into the oil fields in Iraq as well as increasing oil production in the two oil fields of Nahr Bin Umar and Artawi to 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) from around 100,000 to 125,000 bpd now," Mahdi said. He said the project will provide tens of thousands of jobs and that Iraq will make about 400 billion dollars over 30 years after the deal is in force, indicating that there are discussions over the additional profits. Mahdi also denied any link between the mega-project with the U.S. exemption for Iraq to deal with Iran which is under sanctions imposed by the U.S. administration. "This issue (mega-project) started in 2015, and it has nothing to do with the sanctions imposed on Iran. This issue has to do with the Iraqi economy and the Iraqi oil sector," he said, adding that Iraq needs to pump water into the oil wells in order to boost pressure and keep oil production steady. Mahdi's remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump decided not to reissue the sanctions waivers allowing major importers to continue buying Iran's oil when they expired in early May, in a bid to pile up pressure on Iran. Mahdi said that the deal with the two oil firms (Exxon Mobil and PetroChina) is initial, as further discussions would be held to reach a final agreement. With such huge project, Iraq is seeking to improve the deteriorated Iraqi economy and provide job opportunities, as well as improving the public services in the country. Iraq's economy heavily relies on exports of crude oil, which account for more than 90 percent of the country's revenues. Japan Airlines Co.s domestic flights are being disrupted due to problems at its self check-in kiosks across the country, the company said, Trend reported citing Bloomberg. Passengers are checking in at staffed counters, which is taking time and causing boarding delays, the airline said in an emailed statement Wednesday. The carrier had canceled 18 flights as of 9 a.m. local time, affecting about 740 passengers, and some flights were late by as much as an hour, the Tokyo-based company said. JALs shares fell as much as 2.9 percent in early trading in Tokyo, the most in 2019 and outpacing a decline of about 1.4 percent in the TOPIX Index. JALs stock fell 12 percent in 2018. Wednesdays check-in delays started at around 6:50 a.m. and were caused by network issues, JAL said, without giving a time for when they might be resolved. The last major delay to domestic air travel in Japan was caused by a typhoon that hit the archipelago in September. Two militants were killed following an airstrike in Afghanistan's eastern province of Kapisa, the latest in a string of airstrikes against the Taliban, the government said Wednesday, Trend reported citing Xinhua. "Two enemy combatants were killed and one militants' vehicle was destroyed following an airstrike in Dara-e-Ghain locality, Nijrab district of Kapisa on Tuesday," Presidential Information Coordination Center (Tawhid Center) said in a statement. The statement did not say whether the sortie was conducted by Afghan Air Force or NATO-led coalition forces. The Afghan security forces, backed by the NATO-led coalition troops, have increased ground and air offensives against militants within the past few months as spring and summer known as fighting season is drawing near in the country. Some 18 people including five crew members were injured after a passenger plane of the Biman Bangladesh airlines skidded off the runway at Myanmar's Yangon International Airport (YIA) on Wednesday, said the Department of Civil Aviation Myanmar, Trend reports with reference to Xinhua. The Biman Flight No. BG-60 from Dhaka to Yangon carrying 28 passengers and six crew members skidded off the runway at around 6:50 p.m. local time (1220 GMT). "At least 16 people including a pilot with head injury have been sent to the North Okkalapa General Hospital for treatment so far," Zwe Yan Naing, chairman of Shweyaung Thamaing, Emergency Rescue and Social Support Organization, told Xinhua earlier. The Bombardier Dash 8 aircraft veered off the runway during the landing attempt due to heavy rains and poor visibility, said a statement from the Yangon Aerodrome Company Limited, the operator of the YIA. The runway reopened two hours after the accident and an investigation was underway. KYODO NEWS - May 8, 2019 - 18:48 | All, Japan Japan is closely following the situation after Iran suspended some commitments under an international nuclear deal and will use Tokyo's amicable ties with Tehran to ensure peace and stability in the Middle East, a government spokesman said Wednesday. "We hope to use our traditionally friendly relations with Iran to solve problems through dialogue and achieve peace and stability in the region," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said, adding that Iran playing a "constructive" role is important. "The Iranian government's decision is not to withdraw from the nuclear agreement and we take note of this point, the top government spokesman said at a press conference. "We will continue to monitor the situation carefully." Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday that Tehran plans to keep more enriched uranium than allowed under the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, threatening to start higher uranium enrichment if no progress is made in negotiations with other parties within 60 days. Rouhani added, however, that Iran does not plan to leave the nuclear deal, a year after U.S. President Donald Trump decided to pull the United States out of it. Under the deal reached between Iran and six powers -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States -- the Islamic republic agreed to curb its nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. Japan, a nonmember, has supported the deal intended to strengthen the nuclear nonproliferation regime. But the recent hardening of stance by the United States has put its security ally Japan in a difficult position as Tokyo seeks to maintain good relations with Tehran. The United States reinstated sanctions it had lifted under the nuclear deal, and ended waivers granted to buyers of Iranian oil, including Japan, to cut off Tehran's oil revenue last week. Related coverage: Iran to stop implementing part of nuclear deal commitments From the ninth century,onwards, Arab and other traders have visited the Rakhine state, formerly Arakan, on the western coast of Burma (Myanmar), and in the early days, a group of them settled there.As a result of interaction with the local population, Islam gradually spread,until a large part of the Rakhine state became Muslim. For centuries, the Muslims of Arakan lived peacefully with the rest of Burma and had no separatist tendencies. However, when East Pakistan was formed in 1947, certain emotional Muslim leaders tried to make a separate Muslim state out of the region where the Rohingya people lived.They described their efforts as self-determination. This movement picked up pace and many extremist Muslims took an active part in it.The Myanmar central government saw these actions as revolt, as in essence,it was a movement for separation from Myanmar. Prior to the insurgency, Rohingya Muslims had lived peacefully alongside the other people of Myanmar.But emotional speeches made by separatist leaders kindled separatism in the Rohingya. also read Similarity and difference between Buddhism and Jainism To curb their activities, the Myanmar government took tough action and stern measures against them,which,according to Rohingya leaders, were an act of oppression.The governments response was designed to bring discipline to their country. In 1971, when Bangladesh was formed,it gave a kind of political boost to the Rohingya leaders, who further intensified their separatist activities,due to which the Myanmar government reacted more stringently than before.This is the story of the Rohingya Muslims in brief. When I was in Lucknow perhaps in 1966 one day, a Muslim scholar came to me and said he was going to Burma, and asked if I would accompany him.When I asked why, he replied that a movement for the formation of a Muslim state was going on in Myanmar and that we, too, should lend our full support to it. I strongly disagreed with his suggestion. I explained to him that people who thought like him might be trying to form a state in the name of Islam, but that such an act would only lead to strife. I told him that I disapproved of their method of proceeding, as a movement that took shape in such a manner was not truly Islamic, and could only lead to conflict and dispute. I made it clear that I could not endorse such a cause.He became angry and left. Since 1966,my opinion on the Rohingyas is only one and that is:The case of the Rohingya Muslims is not one of oppression, but rather, it is the outcome of ill-judged political activities instigated by unwise leaders.If the whole picture were to be seen, one would arrive at the conclusion that the Rohingya Muslims are not victims of oppression, but are rather paying the price for their own unrealistic actions carried out under the influence of misguided leaders. Such a separatist movement would be unacceptable to any country,even if it were given the euphemistic name of self-determinism. The solution to the problem of the Rohingya Muslims is only one that is, they must disavow their insurgency and militant activities.They should make it known that they are a larger part of the Myanmar nation. also read OM is not only word; check its astonishing power of chanting They should rid their hearts of separatist tendencies. I am sure that the Myanmar government would then accept them, and the whole issue would be peacefully resolved. The separatist movement has only caused a deterioration of the condition of the Rohingyas to the point of ruination, although prior to this they were living prosperously in Myanmar. Indeed, the best interests of the Rohingya Muslims lie not in wanting a separate land, but rather, in living as part of the state of Myanmar. This is true both in the religious and secular sense. In 1934, I took admission in the Madrasah al-Islah, an Arabic seminary in Azamgarh, for my religious education. I had only one friend in this seminary, one Abdul Rashid Rangooni (he was from Burma). He was a very decent person and had a very good opinion about the Burma of his time. Judging by the impressions I received from him about the Burmese people, I would say that the blame for the later actions which were taken against the Rohingya Muslims lies not entirely with the Burmese administration, but with the unwise Rohingya leaders who fuelled violent activities in the region. In the course of this militancy, outside leaders also participated, aggravating the situation.But I personally know that the Burmese are very good people and will certainly reaccept the Rohingya Muslims wholeheartedly, provided the Rohingyas acknowledge that they were misled by separatist leaders and have now resolved to remain faithful citizens of Myanmar. World Red Cross day means 8th of May is celebrated every year as the birthday anniversary of founder of the Red Cross. The day is celebrated on this day because it marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, founder of the Red Cross and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). It is used to celebrate the Birthday of the Dunant Henri who made the Red Cross Committee of the International which is called as the (ICRI) IN 1863 in the Country of Switzerland of Geneva. World Red Cross Day is used to provide the people who suffer from any Food Shortage, Natural Calamities, War as well as Diseases of the Epidemic. also read: World Asthma Day: Tips to Prevent Asthma World Red Cross Day is an annual event celebration, celebrating the principles of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. It is celebrated every year to pay tribute to the volunteers participated in the event as well as welcome their precious contribution for helping people in need. The permission to make World Red Cross Day an annual event was by the International Federation of the Red Cross Societies (IFRC) General Assembly to League of the Red Cross Societies (LORCS). The day was first celebrated in 1948, when it was officially named as World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. During World Red Cross Day local heroes that have made an invaluable impact on life protection are recognized in various categories such as law enforcement, military, fire and rescue, community champion, and humanitarian awards. As part of the celebration of the day, International Committee of Red Cross and its members organise programmes and events that encourage volunteers to promote their humanitarian activities. The volunteers are supposed to help people who are suffering from any kind of problem. The day motivates people to protect their own lives and ensure dignity of victims. World Red Cross Day 2019 theme is #love. The theme will mainly focus on asking people on what they love about Red Cross and Red Crescent. also read:International Firefighter day: Do you know about India's first woman firefighter? There is no clear vision for cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency is popular, and those who believe it's a fad are surprised at how the market continues to grow. Cryptocurrency is a digital, virtual currency, unlike any other. The currency exists online and uses cryptography, blockchain technology and computer networks to track the value and ownership. First launched in 2009 by Satoshi Nakamoto, bitcoin was the first blockchain-based cryptocurrency and remains the most popular and valuable. But there are now numerous competitors to bitcoin. Those interested in trading in digital assets do so through an exchange. Here are few things to know about investing in cryptocurrencies. The U.S. wants to regulate cryptocurrency. Underscoring the significance of cryptocurrency, two bills in support of the digital currency were recently introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives. The bills are entitled the U.S. Virtual Currency Market and Regulatory Competitiveness Act of 2019 and the Virtual Currency Consumer Protection Act of 2019. The proposed legislation from these two acts are intended to regulate cryptocurrencies and protect consumers against bad actors. The federal government's interest in digital currency indicates that there's a future for cryptocurrency. Buying cryptocurrencies may be a bad investment. Gamblers and speculators are the best candidates for the cryptocurrency market. But some investing experts along with famous famous investors like Warren Buffett, Charlie Munger and T. Boone Pickens express distaste for cryptocurrency. "There are virtually no investment strategies that are worse ideas than buying cryptocurrencies. It is pure, unadulterated speculation in an unproven commodity," says Robert Johnson, a finance professor at Creighton University in Nebraska. "There is no intrinsic value in bitcoin and speculators buy with the hope that someone will come along and pay more. Unlike traditional businesses, there is no way to value cryptocurrencies other than the greater fool theory," he says. Story continues Some say you can invest a small portion of your portfolio. Mike Alfred, co-founder and CEO of Digital Assets Data in Denver, believes that bitcoin is the most important and misunderstood asset of our lifetime. He says that every investor should own up to 5% of this asset class. He is joined by David Tawil, president of Maglan Capital, who recommends investors allocate between 2% and 3% in crypto assets. Technology has disrupted every business and cryptocurrency is no different. There is a growing class of investors, advisors and regular folks who believe that digital currency will transform financial services. Tawil is certain of the crypto influence, but unsure which currency will prevail. While bitcoin is the clear leader, there's no guarantee which digital asset will ultimately take hold. Risk-adverse investors should steer clear. Any investor who is uncomfortable with great investment volatility and risk should stay away from digital coin investing. The same goes for those who can't afford to lose all their investment. One could choose the wrong cryptocurrency asset and watch their investment disappear. But Russell Korus, co-founder and CEO of EZ Exchange in Toronto, says that investors who are interested in dipping their toes into the crypto pool should focus on the blue-chip cryptocurreny: bitcoin. The oldest and largest cryptocurrency has demonstrated resilience to the threats of technology, community infighting and attempted government intervention. For crypto investors, research into the specific coins is necessary. "Mass adoption is inevitable," Korus says. Cryptocurrency may aid business transactions. Money transfer currently needs a third-party portal, whether it is a bank, credit card, PayPal or another intermediary. Crypto proponents expect the industry will facilitate direct transfer between two parties, cutting out the trusted third party. The transaction would be facilitated through public or private keys. A user's wallet or account address controls the public key and the private key is used to sign the transactions.This crypto benefit reduces processing fees charged by banks and financial institutions for wire and other fund transfers. The widely adopted blockchain technology stores the online transaction ledger and reduces the threat from hackers, as every new block created must be verified by the ledgers of each user on the market. Cryptocurrency can vanish. Blockchain is popular with a variety of financial institutions and other users. Since cryptocurrencies are virtual and lack a central storehouse, it's possible for an account balance to be wiped out. A computer crash without a backup could destroy a stash of cryptocurrency. If a user loses the private keys, the cryptocurrency is unrecoverable. Scammers can also hijack someone's mobile account by impersonating an account holder. The thieves contact the carrier and request for the the user's phone to be transferred to a new device. This is what gives the scammer access to crypto accounts. The cryptocurrency market is unpredictable. Bitcoin has been extremely volatile in its pricing, from being valued at a few hundred dollars to more than $17,000 in December 2017. At this writing, bitcoin is worth nearly $5,900 and there's no way to determine whether it will be worth more or less in the future. There are more than 2,000 types of coins, and cryptocurrency coin prices are unpredictable -- especially among smaller coins. The cryptocurrency market cap shows the market value of all the coins. The smallest coin with a positive market cap is HarmonyCoin and its market is worth $32. While the bitcoin market cap is valued at more than $104 billion, the No. 2 player is Ethereum, worth $18 billion in market cap. Invest in cryptocurrency with open eyes. In the 1600s, Holland saw the value of tulip bulbs skyrocket and ultimately crash, leaving investors with great financial losses. Other market boom and bust cycles have followed including the dot-com crash and the more recent subprime mortgage market collapse in the wake of the Great Recession. But there are significant differences between previous booms and busts and the current cryptocurrency craze. All the prior enthusiasm for tulips, tech and subprime mortgages were focused on actual assets. Cryptocurrency cannot be touched or seen and is simply an entry in an online log. Those that invest must remain cautious, understanding that they're buying into an asset class without a tangible product or history. Know these facts before investing in cryptocurrency. -- The government wants to regulate cryptocurrency. -- Buying cryptocurrencies may be a bad investment. -- Some say you can invest a small portion of your portfolio. -- Risk-adverse investors should steer clear. -- Cryptocurrency may aid business transactions. -- Cryptocurrency can vanish. -- The cryptocurrency market is unpredictable. -- Invest in cryptocurrency with open eyes. More From US News & World Report NEW YORK and CLEVELAND, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Abeona Therapeutics Inc. (ABEO), a fully-integrated leader in gene and cell therapy, today announced that long-term follow up data from a completed Phase 1/2 study evaluating EB-101 for the treatment of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) will be presented at the 77th Annual Meeting of the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID), being held May 8-11 in Chicago. The data will be presented by Stanford University researcher Shaundra Eichstadt, M.D. in two forums at the meeting, as detailed below. As previously reported, these data showed that three years after treatment with EB-101, a majority of RDEB patients had durable wound healing. Notable improvements were also reported in outcomes associated with wound healing, including patient reported reductions in pain and itching. No serious treatment-related adverse events were observed at three years, and no replication competent virus was present at any time point. Genetically corrected autologous keratinocyte epidermal grafts improve wound healing and patient reported outcomes in patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) Selected e-Poster Discussion I Thursday, May 9, 11:15 a.m. 12:15 p.m. CT Poster Session III Saturday, May 11, 12:45 2:45 p.m. CT About EB-101 EB-101 is an investigational, autologous, gene-corrected cell therapy poised to enter late-stage development for the treatment of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB), a rare connective tissue disorder without an approved therapy. Treatment with EB-101 involves using gene transfer to deliver COL7A1 genes into a patients own skin cells (keratinocytes) and transplanting them back to the patient to enable normal Type VII collagen expression and skin function. In the U.S., Abeona holds Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy, Breakthrough Therapy, and Rare Pediatric designations for EB-101 and Orphan Drug designation in both the U.S. and EU. Story continues About Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, or RDEB, is a rare connective tissue disorder without an approved therapy in which patients suffer with severe epidermal wounds that bring pain, itching, and widespread complications impacting the length and quality of their lives. People with RDEB have a defect in the COL7A1 gene, leaving them unable to produce Type VII collagen that helps anchor the dermal and epidermal layers of the skin. About Abeona Therapeutics Abeona Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing gene and cell therapies for serious diseases. The Companys clinical programs include EB-101, its autologous, gene-corrected cell therapy for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, as well as ABO-102 and ABO-101, novel AAV9-based gene therapies for Sanfilippo syndrome types A and B (MPS IIIA and MPS IIIB). The Companys portfolio of AAV9-based gene therapies also features ABO-202 and ABO-201 for CLN1 disease and CLN3 disease, respectively. Its preclinical assets include ABO-401, which uses the novel AIM AAV vector platform to address all mutations of cystic fibrosis. Abeona has received numerous regulatory designations from the FDA and EMA for its pipeline candidates and is the only company with Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy designation for two investigational therapies (EB-101 and ABO-102). For more information, visit www.abeonatherapeutics.com. Forward Looking Statement This press release contains certain statements that are forward-looking 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, and that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements include statements regarding our pipeline including the potential use of investigational product EB-101 in the treatment of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) based upon pre-clinical data. We have attempted to identify forward looking statements by such terminology as may, will, anticipate, believe, estimate, expect, intend, and similar expressions. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, numerous risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: continued interest in our rare disease portfolio, our ability to initiate and enroll patients in clinical trials, the impact of competition, the ability to secure licenses for any technology that may be necessary to commercialize our products, the ability to achieve or obtain necessary regulatory approvals, the impact of changes in the financial markets and global economic conditions, risks associated with data analysis and reporting, and other risks as may be detailed from time to time in the Companys annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise the forward-looking statements or update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this presentation, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by the federal securities laws. Investor Contact: Sofia Warner Senior Director, Investor Relations Abeona Therapeutics +1 (646) 813-4710 swarner@abeonatherapeutics.com More than $2 trillion in unrealized gains sit on the ledgers of investors and corporations, according to the Economic Innovation Group. Investing these funds directly in 8,700 Opportunity Zones (or 1 in 8 U.S. Census tracts) for 10 years or more would eliminate any federal taxes due on those gains and potentially reduce poverty via job creation and income growth related to those investments. How can a formerly failing freshman in a South Carolina high school ultimately build a path to prosperity for millions of poor people nationwide? Through the U.S. tax code, of course. Born into poverty in North Charleston, South Carolina, and raised by a single mother, Tim Scott struggled economically and educationally early in life, like many of the 39 million low-income Americans facing a poverty threshold of $25,750 per year for a family of four. Ultimately, Scott found a mentor, graduated high school and college, built a business and subsequently served on the city council and in the state legislature, and became the only African-American to become both a U.S. Representative and Senator. More from Impact Investing: Not just millennials have impact investing in their game plan: Study Homeowner ditches 'energy guzzlers' for more efficient options Trump order brings scrutiny to eco-conscious 401(k) investments In late 2017, Sen. Scott (R-South Carolina) co-sponsored with Sen. Cory Booker (D-New Jersey) an innovative addition to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, whereby 8,700 low-income census tracts called Opportunity Zones could benefit investors with unrealized capital gains to sell existing investments and re-invest those gains in new ventures, business expansions and real estate in high-poverty areas. (An interactive map of all OZs can be found online at https://eig.org/opportunityzones .) According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, "low income" census tracts have "at least 50% of households with an income less than 60% of the Area Median Gross Income (AMGI)." Some OZs are in higher-population counties (such as Bronx County in New York, with 25% of residents, or Milwaukee, Wisconsin county 10% of residents.) Some OZs are in rural counties with less than 3,000 people (like Baca County in Colorado, with 57% of residents; or 72% of residents in Modoc County, California). All of Puerto Rico qualifies, including three major counties of San Juan, Bayamon and Carolina, totaling more than 700,000 people, with median income of $19,775. Story continues However, with Opportunity Zones chosen by governors, some OZs may not be as needy. While Loving County in Texas has an OZ, its 82 people have the highest income per capita in Texas. Downtown Houston neighborhoods have also qualified as OZs in Harris County, Texas. Sources: U.S. Census, HIP Investor More than $2 trillion in unrealized gains sit on the ledgers of investors and corporations, according to the Economic Innovation Group , based in Washington, D.C., and partly funded by investor Sean Parker of Napster and Facebook fame. Investing directly in 8,700 Opportunity Zones (or 1 in 8 U.S. Census tracts) for 10 years or more would eliminate any federal taxes due on those gains and potentially reduce poverty via job creation and income growth related to those investments. So where can investors deploy their capital today? The IRS is formalizing rules and policies, so capital is generally not yet flowing, though a wave of Opportunity Zone fund offerings is emerging. Investors seeking impact and profit are optimistic and cautious. Institutional investors, such as Alliance Bernstein's Eric Glass, portfolio manager for fixed income impact strategies, are ready to invest. "Opportunity Zone investments that align with the spirit and integrity of uplifting historically marginalized communities, empowering them to catalyze, drive, own and operate the community investment" is what impact investors are seeking, he said. Yet Glass also cautions that "we need to avoid Opportunity Zone investments focused solely on gentrification, driving up real estate values and displacing the local community." Previous government tax-code incentives have helped low-income neighborhoods attract more capital. The 1977 Community Reinvestment Act mandated commercial banks to invest locally and track results. But the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act does not specify any required outcomes such as reduced poverty rates or jobs created. Nor does it require serving one or more of the United Nations' 17 "Sustainable Development Goals," a global framework for impact investing. "The big policy question is whether Opportunity Zone investments will move beyond simply driving capital to low-income census tracts and actually improve the lives of those who live there," said Steve Godeke, a strategic advisor to foundations, families and asset managers pursuing impactful portfolios. "While there are no reporting or impact measurement requirements in the current regulations, we are relying primarily on the self-interest of investors not to abuse the system." Sources: U.S. Census, HIP Investor Impact investor and portfolio manager Kristin Hull said that "more than 50% of the investment gains should stay in the community." Hull, CEO and founder of NIA Impact Capital which prioritizes investments that benefit women would prefer the tax code and IRS policy mandate that OZ funds and gains remain in the community and create more local wealth-owners to truly break the cycle of poverty. "Thoughtfully constructed term sheets among investors and investees could incorporate specific impact metrics truly affordable housing, high quality jobs with attractive benefits, solar panels for low cost energy and urban forests to fully align positive social outcomes funded by future foregone tax revenues," Hull said. Opportunity Zone investors can work directly with local networks that already bring together "overlooked entrepreneurs," Hull noted, such as the Impact HUB of Oakland and the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies. As each state's or territory's governor was empowered to select the specific zones, "we can expect a mixed bag of results," said Godeke, as criteria of rural versus urban and use of public lands varied. "Over time, Opportunity Zones could become more integrated into CRA, New Markets Tax Credits, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit programs, and also co-invest with several foundations who are seeding OZ funds, providing loan guarantees and funding training." For example, Kresge Foundation has committed $22 million in guarantees of principal protection to back the Opportunity Zone Funds of Arctaris and Community Capital Management, which will include high transparency, performance reporting and accountability to desired social goals like affordable housing and living wage jobs. More impact metrics developed by Kresge Foundation and partners are documented in its Opportunity Zones Reporting Framework. Just as the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion in "The Wizard of Oz" sought out brains, heart and courage, so, too, can OZ investors open up more pathways for the poor to escape poverty while pursuing higher-impact, tax-free returns over a decade to possibly enrich investors' portfolios. By R. Paul Herman, CEO and founder of HIP Investor, and Noah Strouse investment analyst at HIP Investor. HIP Investor is a provider of 123,400 impact/ESG ratings and investment manager of impact/ESG strategies and portfolios since 2006. Herman is also author of "The HIP Investor: Make Bigger Profits by Building a Better World." More From CNBC Luxembourg May 7, 2019 (14:45 CET) - The Annual General Meeting and Extraordinary General Meeting of shareholders (the General Meetings) of Aperam held today in Luxembourg approved all resolutions on the agenda by a large majority. 65,820,713 shares, or 76.99% of the Company's share capital, were present or represented at the General Meetings. The results of the votes will be posted in due course on www.aperam.com under "Investors" - Equity Investors - "Shareholders' Meetings" - "7 May 2019 - General Meetings of Shareholders". In particular, the shareholders approved the consolidated financial statements for the financial year 2018; re-elected Mr. Lakshmi N. Mittal, Mr. Romain Bausch, Mrs. Kathryn A. Matthews and Mr. Aditya Mittal; and elected Mrs. Bernadette Baudier as Directors of Aperam for a term of three years; renewed the authorisation of the Board of Directors of the Company and of the corporate bodies of other companies in the Aperam group to acquire shares in the Company; authorized grants of share based incentives under the Groups Long Term Incentive Plan covering Performance Share Unit grants for the Leadership Team and other performance based grants below the level of the Leadership Team; decided to cancel shares and to consequently reduce the issued share capital following the cancellation of shares repurchased under the share buyback program, such cancellation to take place after the end of the program. About Aperam Aperam is a global player in stainless, electrical and specialty steel, with customers in over 40 countries. The business is organized in three primary operating segments: Stainless & Electrical Steel, Services & Solutions and Alloys & Specialties. Aperam has 2.5 million tonnes of flat Stainless and Electrical steel capacity in Brazil and Europe and is a leader in high value specialty products. Aperam has a highly integrated distribution, processing and services network and a unique capability to produce stainless and specialty from low cost biomass (charcoal). Its industrial network is spread in six production facilities located in Brazil, Belgium and France. Story continues In 2018, Aperam had sales of EUR 4,677 million and steel shipments of 1.97 million tonnes. For further information, please refer to our website at www.aperam.com Contact Corporate Communications / Laurent Beauloye: +352 27 36 27 103 Investor Relations / Thorsten Zimmermann: +352 27 36 27 304 Apple Is Said to Be Close to Opening First Retail Store in India (Bloomberg) -- Apple Inc. has finalized a short list of locations for its first retail store in India, according to people familiar with the plans, as the company redoubles its efforts in the worlds fastest-growing smartphone market. The iPhone giant has zeroed in on several upscale sites in Mumbai, and plans to make a final decision in the next few weeks, said the people, asking not to be named because the discussions are private. The vetted spots are comparable to iconic Apple locations on Fifth Avenue in New York, Regent Street in London or the Champs-Elysees in Paris, they said. Apple has been prohibited from opening its own stores in the country because it doesnt meet local sourcing requirements, but its shifting manufacturing into India and is in talks with the government about its retail expansion. The Cupertino, Calif.-based company has struggled to establish itself in India where consumers have opted for less expensive Chinese brands such as Xiaomi and Vivo. But Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook has vowed to improve in the fast-growing market, especially as Apple loses ground in China. Manufacturing in India will also allow the company to sidestep 20 percent tariffs on imported phones, making its devices more competitive. India is a very important market in the long term, Cook said after the companys earnings report last week. Its a challenging market in the short term, but were learning a lot. We plan on going in there with sort of all of our might. Read More: Apple Stores Are Hit With Complaints of Sliding Customer Service Apple doesnt break out its revenue from India since its such a minor part of the business. In the most recent quarter, the company generated 44 percent of revenue from the Americas and 18 percent from greater China. India is lumped in with the rest of Asia-Pacific, which altogether account for about 6 percent.. Apple has tried in recent years to gain ground as India eclipsed China as the fastest-growing smartphone market in the world. One Apple veteran took over as country chief at the end of 2017, overhauling its strategy and replacing top sales executives. But with little sign of progress, a new country chief was named in November. Story continues Still, Apple continues to flounder in India. Research firm Canalys estimates the companys shipments fell by more than 75 percent in the first quarter of 2019, giving it only about 1 percent of the countrys smartphone market. Now Apple appears to be doing the difficult -- and expensive -- work of building a foundation for its business. Foxconn Technology Group, its most important manufacturing partner, is running quality tests for the iPhone Xr series in India and plans to begin mass production at a facility in the suburbs of Chennai. Older models are already assembled at a Wistron plant in Bangalore. The increase in local operations should expedite approval for a company-owned store when a new government takes over in India at the end of May or early June, said the people. Its own retail store might be just what Apple requires to reinforce its premium image, said Rushabh Doshi, an analyst with Canalys. A store just before the next launch will be the perfect timing for Apple to restart its Indian growth story. Its clear Cook wont give up against Chinese phonemakers that have come to lead the market. We have made some adjustments in India and weve seen preliminarily some better results there, he said last week during the earnings call. Indeed, last month Apple ran front-page newspaper ads announcing sizable discounts on the latest iPhone Xr. The phonemaker, which rarely slashes price on its latest models, has offered a markdown of 17,000 rupees ($244) on its latest iPhone Xr, bringing the price down to 59,900 rupees. This week online retailer Paytm Mall announced cash paybacks on a variety of iPhone models. The price cuts are definitely a step in the right direction, said Doshi. Apple has a delicate balance to maintain: It needs to appeal to the cost-conscious Indian buyers, while ensuring that price drops do not dilute its premium image. --With assistance from Mark Gurman. To contact the reporter on this story: Saritha Rai in Bangalore at srai33@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Peter Elstrom at pelstrom@bloomberg.net, Edwin Chan For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. The logo of Australia's TPG Telecom Ltd can be seen outside their head office in Sydney, Australia FILE PHOTO: The logo of Australia's TPG Telecom Ltd can be seen outside their head office in Sydney, Australia, April 12, 2017. REUTERS/David Gray By Tom Westbrook and Paulina Duran SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia's anti-trust regulator blocked a A$15 billion ($11 billion) merger between TPG Telecom and Vodafone's Australian joint venture on competition grounds on Wednesday, knocking shares in the firms involved. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC)rejection of a deal between Australia's third and fourth-largest telcos - accidentally uploaded earlier than expected - unraveled the prospect of combining TPG's fiber and Vodafone's mobile networks. Vodafone mainly runs a mobile phone business in a joint venture with Hutchison Telecommunications (Australia) Ltd, but has struggled with reliability, while TPG largely has an internet business with a low-cost reputation. The firms said they would contest the decision, but it heaps pressure on the growth plans of both, weighing especially on TPG to resume investment in a mobile network it quit in January. A deal would stop both from competing in each other's markets, the ACCC had said in December, concluding on Wednesday it would reduce rivalry in the sector as a whole. It is the largest deal the regulator has blocked for years and could now grind through the courts, much like the ultimately successful tie-up between gambling houses Tabcorp Holdings and Tatts Group in 2017. The market reaction was a chaotic selldown in the moments after the decision's unexpected release, since both firms need the tie-up to grow, Mathan Somasundaram, Market Portfolio Strategist at stockbroker Blue Ocean Equities in Sydney, said. "Both of them are really out of plan B," he said. "Vodafone needs a dancing partner and TPG needs scale." TPG shares dropped as much as 15 percent and closed at a five-month low, more or less where they were before the deal was agreed, while thinly traded Hutchison stock dropped 28 percent to its lowest since February. The firms said they remain committed to the deal and not everyone feels it is doomed. Story continues "There are a number of unknowns and many variable valuation outcomes," Nick Harris, an analyst at Brisbane stockbroker Morgans, wrote in a note to clients after ACCC's decision. Morgans retains a hold rating on TPG. 'WE WILL DEFINITELY CONTEST' TPG abandoned building its mobile telephone network in which relied on Huawei equipment after the Chinese telco was banned by Australia on security grounds last year. The regulator believes TPG may revisit the plan to build the network and that rivalry in the industry depends on it. "TPG is the best prospect Australia has for a new mobile network operator to enter the market, and this is likely the last chance we have for stronger competition in the supply of mobile services," ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said in a statement. "TPG has the capability and commercial incentive to resolve the technical and commercial challenges it is facing." TPG did not mention the network in a statement, which said the merger would improve competition. Vodafone Hutchison Australia said it remains committed to the deal. The firms agreed to extend the deadline for implementing the merger until August 31, 2020. "It is extremely difficult for us to understand this decision," Vodafone Hutchison Australia Chief Executive Officer Inaki Berroeta said on a conference call with journalists. "It looks like the ACCC has created an ideal market structure ... and they are trying to compare that with reality, which I believe is a fallacy," he said. "This is something that we will definitely contest." MISFIRE The regulator's decision caught traders, analysts and the companies unawares since it was not due to announce its final verdict until Thursday, after twice delaying the decision date. "This information was inadvertently published online on our mergers register briefly this afternoon," the ACCC said. The news sent both firms into a tailspin and shares sliding until the market closed 25 minutes later and the regulator published a fuller note explaining its reasons. Sims told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation it was extremely unfortunate, was caused by a systems error and would be investigated. (Reporting by Tom Westbrook and Paulina Duran in Sydney. Additional reporting by Ambar Warrick in Bengaluru; Editing by Stephen Coates, Muralikumar Anantharaman and Alexander Smith) By Tom Westbrook and Paulina Duran SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia's anti-trust regulator blocked a A$15 billion (8.4 billion pounds) merger between TPG Telecom and Vodafone's Australian joint venture on competition grounds on Wednesday, knocking shares in the firms involved. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC)rejection of a deal between Australia's third and fourth-largest telcos - accidentally uploaded earlier than expected - unravelled the prospect of combining TPG's fibre and Vodafone's mobile networks. Vodafone mainly runs a mobile phone business in a joint venture with Hutchison Telecommunications (Australia) Ltd, but has struggled with reliability, while TPG largely has an internet business with a low-cost reputation. The firms said they would contest the decision, but it heaps pressure on the growth plans of both, weighing especially on TPG to resume investment in a mobile network it quit in January. A deal would stop both from competing in each other's markets, the ACCC had said in December, concluding on Wednesday it would reduce rivalry in the sector as a whole. It is the largest deal the regulator has blocked for years and could now grind through the courts, much like the ultimately successful tie-up between gambling houses Tabcorp Holdings and Tatts Group in 2017. The market reaction was a chaotic selldown in the moments after the decision's unexpected release, since both firms need the tie-up to grow, Mathan Somasundaram, Market Portfolio Strategist at stockbroker Blue Ocean Equities in Sydney, said. "Both of them are really out of plan B," he said. "Vodafone needs a dancing partner and TPG needs scale." TPG shares dropped as much as 15 percent and closed at a five-month low, more or less where they were before the deal was agreed, while thinly traded Hutchison stock dropped 28 percent to its lowest since February. The firms said they remain committed to the deal and not everyone feels it is doomed. Story continues "There are a number of unknowns and many variable valuation outcomes," Nick Harris, an analyst at Brisbane stockbroker Morgans, wrote in a note to clients after ACCC's decision. Morgans retains a hold rating on TPG. 'WE WILL DEFINITELY CONTEST' TPG abandoned building its mobile telephone network in which relied on Huawei equipment after the Chinese telco was banned by Australia on security grounds last year. The regulator believes TPG may revisit the plan to build the network and that rivalry in the industry depends on it. "TPG is the best prospect Australia has for a new mobile network operator to enter the market, and this is likely the last chance we have for stronger competition in the supply of mobile services," ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said in a statement. "TPG has the capability and commercial incentive to resolve the technical and commercial challenges it is facing." TPG did not mention the network in a statement, which said the merger would improve competition. Vodafone Hutchison Australia said it remains committed to the deal. The firms agreed to extend the deadline for implementing the merger until August 31, 2020. "It is extremely difficult for us to understand this decision," Vodafone Hutchison Australia Chief Executive Officer Inaki Berroeta said on a conference call with journalists. "It looks like the ACCC has created an ideal market structure ... and they are trying to compare that with reality, which I believe is a fallacy," he said. "This is something that we will definitely contest." MISFIRE The regulator's decision caught traders, analysts and the companies unawares since it was not due to announce its final verdict until Thursday, after twice delaying the decision date. "This information was inadvertently published online on our mergers register briefly this afternoon," the ACCC said. The news sent both firms into a tailspin and shares sliding until the market closed 25 minutes later and the regulator published a fuller note explaining its reasons. Sims told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation it was extremely unfortunate, was caused by a systems error and would be investigated. (Reporting by Tom Westbrook and Paulina Duran in Sydney. Additional reporting by Ambar Warrick in Bengaluru; Editing by Stephen Coates, Muralikumar Anantharaman and Alexander Smith) CAIRO (Reuters) - Bahrain has signed 12 agreements and memoranda of understanding with French companies and institutions worth $2 billion (1.55 billion pounds), Bahrain news agency (BNA) reported on Monday. One of the agreements was signed between Tatweer Petroleum and France's Total regarding cooperation for the new oil field exploration in Bahrain, the agency said. Gulf Air signed five deals with EPCOR, Thales Inc., Michelin, CFM and SAFRAN Landing Systems. Gulf Air also finalised an agreement with CFM International to buy 65 LEAP-1A engines, with the engine order valued at one billion U.S. dollars at list price, BNA reported. (Reporting by Nayera Abdallah. Editing by Jane Merriman) Wealth management provider Northern Trust has announced it is transferring its blockchain-based platform to Broadridge, which will continue to develop it.The post Northern Trust transfers its PE blockchain-based platform to Broadridge appeared first on The Block. Hunter Merghart has joined Luxembourg-based crypto exchange Bitstamp as its new head of U.S. operations, the company shared with The Block. Merghart recently left Coinbase as head of trading but has an extensive background in traditional financial institutions, having served as director of trading at Barclays and vice president at RBC Capital Markets. Merghart will be responsible for opening Bitstamps New York office. The exchange received a BitLicense last month, allowing it to operate there. We are excited to have Hunter join our team at a time of strategic growth at Bitstamp, said Nejc Kodric, CEO of Bitstamp. Hes the perfect person to lead our U.S. operations, which includes making sure our retail and institutional investors have a platform and service that is equal to what they would find at any traditional exchange anywhere in the world. Warren Buffett, Chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, speaks during a game of bridge following the annual Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha, Neb., Sunday, May 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik) OMAHA, Neb. (AP) -- Investor Warren Buffett says if the U.S. has a full-blown trade war with China, it will be bad for the entire world. Buffett appeared on CNBC Monday with Berkshire Hathaway Vice Chairman Charlie Munger and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who serves on Berkshire's board. Over the weekend, roughly 40,000 people attended Berkshire's shareholder meeting in Omaha, Nebraska. Trump said over the weekend that he may impose 25 percent tariffs on more Chinese imports, and financial markets initially plunged. The Dow fell 500 points before recovering somewhat to a decline of about 200 points by midday Monday. Buffett said Trump is making a "nuclear threat" that may bring the Chinese to the table. But it's impossible to predict the outcome because both countries' leaders are used to getting their way. "It's a dangerous game," Buffett said. Munger said a trade agreement that includes some tariffs and both sides feeling somewhat disappointed would be a good thing. "A good settlement is better than a lovely world war," Munger said. Gates said the rational thing would be for both sides to agree to a trade deal. Buffett discussed a variety of other topics during the interview including his dislike of initial stock offerings. Buffett said he hasn't ever bought shares in an IPO for Berkshire Hathaway over the past 54 years. Buffett says that in an IPO, like Uber's expected offering this week, everyone involved has an incentive to sell the stock. Buffett said he prefers to buy when no one is getting a special commission. Munger said he isn't sure all the disclosures are believable in an IPO "There's a lot of lying in modern finance," Munger said. "I don't like lying." Berkshire owns about one-quarter of Kraft Heinz, which has struggled recently. But Buffett was supportive of the food giant and its management, even after Kraft Heinz said Monday it will restate its earnings for 2016 and 2017. Buffett and Munger also offered support for Wells Fargo, in which Berkshire owns a stake of about 10 percent. Story continues "It's a fine company," Munger said. "They made one mistake on an incentive plan." Berkshire Hathaway Inc. owns more than 90 companies, including BNSF railroad and clothing, furniture and jewelry businesses. Its insurance and utility businesses typically account for more than half of the company's net income. The company also has major investments in such companies as Apple, American Express, Coca-Cola and Wells Fargo & Co. ___ Follow Josh Funk on Twitter: https://twitter.com/funkwrite Henderson, Nevada-based Digipath (OTCQB: DIGP), a testing laboratory, data and media firm focused on the cannabis and hemp markets, agreed to provide analysis and testing services to One World Pharma (OTC: OWPC), a Colombian cannabis producer. Under the agreement, Digipath will provide analysis and testing services to One World Pharma, the companys first commercial customer in Colombia, using compliant lab equipment and processes under ISO:17025 or similar guidelines that will meet all necessary Colombian and international standards, the company said in a statement. One World Pharma is licensed to produce and manufacture raw cannabis and hemp plant ingredients for both medical and industrial uses in Colombia with significant approvals and Colombian relationships in place, including permission to cultivate 13 different THC strains. Under the agreement, Digipath will establish its testing laboratory in Colombia through its newly formed Colombian subsidiary Digipath Labs SAS. It will be the exclusive testing lab for One Worlds cannabis and hemp products. Digipath plans to expand its service offerings in Colombia for One World to include soil and water testing, genetic testing, field testing, in-process and post-harvest quality assurance. We could not be more pleased to launch our commercial efforts in Colombia with One World Pharma, Digipath CEO Todd Denkin stated. We are working with a company we expect to soon be one of the leaders in the international export of clean and safe cannabis. This is a tremendous new opportunity for Digipath as we continue our efforts to become the preeminent brand in cannabis testing and quality control. The post Cannabis Producer One World Picks Digipath for Lab Testing appeared first on Market Exclusive. FILE PHOTO: Containers and cargo vessels are seen at sunset at a port in Lianyungang, Jiangsu province, China March 12, 2019. REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo By Yawen Chen and Kevin Yao BEIJING (Reuters) - China's exports unexpectedly shrank in April but imports surprised with their first increase in five months, painting a mixed picture of the economy as Washington ratchets up pressure on Beijing with threats of more punishing tariffs. The latest trade data, which would normally be pored over for clues on how the world's second-largest economy is faring, has been overshadowed by worries that the U.S.-China trade war is escalating, rather than nearing a resolution as many investors had expected. High-level Chinese and U.S. negotiators will meet in Washington in the next two days, as Beijing tries to avoid a sharp increase in tariffs on its goods ordered by President Donald Trump to take effect from Friday. Investors have been hoping that China's April trade data would add to signs that its economy is beginning to steady, easing worries about cooling global growth. But exports fell 2.7 percent from a year earlier, customs data showed on Wednesday. ANZ estimated more than 80 percent of the headline decline was due to a sharp drop in shipments to the United States, while its high-tech exports continued to be weighed down by sluggish global demand for smartphones and other electronic gadgets. Economists polled by Reuters had expected growth to slow to 2.3 percent after March's surprising 14.2 percent jump, which some analysts suspected was inflated by seasonal factors and temporary business distortions related to a cut in the value-added tax (VAT) effective April 1. "The outlook for Chinese exports is challenging. If Trump follows through on his latest tariff threats, we think this would drag down export growth by two to three percentage points," Capital Economics said in a note. "Even if a last-minute deal is struck this week to avoid further tariffs, the downbeat prospects for global growth will probably mean that export growth remains subdued." POSITIVE IMPORT SURPRISE Story continues Imports, however, beat expectations with a 4.0 percent rise year-on-year, much better than analysts' forecasts for a 3.6 percent fall and March's 7.6 percent drop. The gain was the first since November, suggesting domestic demand is starting to perk up as Beijing rolls out more stimulus, such as higher spending on roads, railways and ports. Imports of copper, widely used in construction and manufacturing, rose from March, but were down on-year. China's major trading partners, big multinational suppliers like Caterpillar and global investors have been closely watching to see how long it will take support measures announced in recent months to take hold. Tang Jianwei, a senior economist at Bank of Communications in Shanghai, said China stands to lose in either case. "If there is a set-back in trade talks, both external demand and domestic demand could be hit. If the U.S. and China reach a trade deal, China will have to step up imports form the U.S., which will reduce its trade surplus, which will reduce net exports' contribution to GDP growth," he said. China had an overall trade surplus of $13.84 billion in April, smaller than forecasts of $35 billion. Its trade surplus with the United States, a major irritant for Washington, widened to $21.01 billion in April, from $20.5 billion in March. China's imports from the U.S. fell nearly 26 percent while exports to the U.S. fell just over 13 percent. TRADE TURNABOUT? Some analysts believe recent signs of improvement in both the Chinese and American economies may have hardened their negotiating positions on trade after months of progress made when the business outlook appeared much more shaky. China posted surprisingly strong data for March, but initial April readings have been more subdued, suggesting the economy is still struggling for traction. Factory surveys for April suggested demand was improving at a much slower rate at home and abroad, adding to the debate over how much more stimulus China needs to generate a sustainable recovery, without risking a rapid jump in debt. "Weak growth in Chinese exports to the U.S. will also be concerning to Chinese officials, particularly amid a potential escalation in the trade war," said Nick Marro, an analyst at The Economist Intelligence Unit. "The data will add more urgency to the trade negotiations this week and could push China more forcefully towards an agreement, despite its past reluctance to negotiate under threat." Top U.S. trade officials said China had backtracked on substantial commitments it made earlier in trade talks. That prompted Trump to issue a new deadline of Friday to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent from 10 percent. Trump also threatened new levies soon. The swift deterioration in negotiations between the world's two largest economies has jolted global financial markets, which had been increasingly betting that a deal would be reached soon. Major stock indexes in trade-reliant Asia continued to fall on Wednesday, tracking a slide on Wall Street. "Today's exports data support our view that there is real risk of double dip in growth, and Beijing cannot afford to stop easing (policy) yet. With the rapid escalation of the trade conflict with the U.S., we believe Beijing will likely step up easing measures again," Nomura analysts wrote in a note. (Reporting by Yawen Chen and Kevin Yao; Editing by Kim Coghill) (Bloomberg) -- While Chinese and American officials enter heated trade negotiations this week, companies that have built the technology industrys global supply chain arent waiting to see how the talks turn out. In the latest example, Delta Electronics Inc. is joining a wave of key suppliers accelerating a shift of production away from China. Delta, which makes components to help clients like Microsoft Corp. and Huawei Technologies Co. manage power and cooling for datacenters to factories, is moving some production back to its home base of Taiwan and Thailand amid the threat of a trade war and U.S. security concerns. Its also taking the unusual step of building three to four plants in India, responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modis Make-in-India program. U.S. President Donald Trump threw trade negotiations into chaos this week with a threat of higher tariffs on Chinese goods as soon as Friday, accusing Beijing of backpedaling on concessions. With thousands of critical suppliers caught in the crossfire, a growing number are diversifying beyond China to places like Southeast Asia and India. Deltas Chief Executive Officer Ping Cheng concedes that Indias technology ecosystem remains far less developed than its giant Asian neighbors. But he is keen to add one of the worlds fastest-growing major economies to a production chain that now stretches from Europe to the U.S., via a subsidiary it recently secured a controlling stake in. The products will be mainly for the domestic Indian market, Cheng said in an interview last week. The trend of making in India is inevitable as its a big market. But it remains to be seen whether the supply chain locally will in future be complete and used for exports. Delta is one of a raft of Taiwanese component makers that form key links in a global supply chain serving the worlds largest tech names. The prospect of sky-high tariffs is prompting the manufacturing powerhouses behind the worlds electronics to scour the globe for alternatives beyond China. Thats threatening to splinter a decades-old supply chain, in which Taiwanese giants operate sprawling Chinese factories to assemble devices that are then sold by the likes of Apple Inc., HP and Dell under their own brands. Story continues There is no knowing how U.S.-China tensions will play out, said Gordon Sun, director of the Taiwan Institute of Economic Researchs Macroeconomic Forecasting Center. Rising labor costs and Beijings efforts to foster domestic businesses are also encouraging diversification, he added. Even if there is a trade deal, Taiwanese companies will continue to diversify their production bases. Escalating tensions with the U.S. and fears about the security of Chinese-made hardware -- particularly in networked and connected products -- are also prompting certain customers to request a shift away from the worlds second largest economy, Cheng said. Some clients worry that their information may be leaked through backdoors, he said without elaborating. Were moving also due to higher taxes, and we will ask clients to split costs with us, as the expense will increase. For many Taiwanese manufacturers, that entails a migration back home. Delta has announced NT$13.2 billion ($427 million) in home investments over the coming three years, and Cheng said his company is looking to hire more than 7,000 engineers over the next half-decade. The aim is to reduce its reliance on China to about 60 percent of its products, versus 70 to 73 percent currently, though Cheng said in the long term the company will continue to invest in China and revenue from that country will continue to grow. Our production used to be in China mostly. With a trade war happening, we realized its too concentrated, he said. To contact the reporters on this story: Cindy Wang in Taipei at hwang61@bloomberg.net;Debby Wu in Taipei at dwu278@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Peter Elstrom at pelstrom@bloomberg.net, Edwin Chan For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- SoftBank Group Corp.s $1 billion bet on Rappi has made the delivery app one of the most valuable tech startups in Latin America, according to people with knowledge of the deal. The Colombia-based company is worth around $3.5 billion after the Japanese companys Innovation Fund and Vision Fund agreed last month to each invest $500 million, said the people familiar, who asked not to be identified speaking about a private deal. A spokeswoman for Rappi didnt immediately reply to a request for comment. Rappi, which operates in seven countries, where it employs armies of bike-riding couriers delivering groceries, hot meals and products from tens of thousands of businesses, last year reached unicorn status -- the term for a tech startup worth $1 billion or more. At $3.5 billion, it would join be among the most valuable private firms in Latin America, along with Brazils Nubank, which specializes in financial services. A handful of others have gone public. The SoftBank deal, part of the Innovation Funds $5 billion of spending in the region, comes as venture capital investments in Latin American startups quadrupled since 2016 to $2 billion last year, according to the Association for Private Capital Investments in Latin America. As part of SoftBanks investment -- its biggest ever in Latin America -- Jeffrey Housenbold, managing partner of SoftBank Investment Advisers, will join the board of directors, the companies said in an April 30 joint statement. Rappi has the potential to expand far beyond its current business and become of the most important technology companies in Latin America, Housenbold said in the statement. To contact the reporter on this story: Ezra Fieser in Bogota at efieser@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Nikolaj Gammeltoft at ngammeltoft@bloomberg.net, Matthew Bristow For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. While the early results made it appear magic mushrooms were going to remain illegal in Denver, the final update from the citys Election Division shows that voters narrowly approved decriminalizing the hallucinogens this week. The possession and use of psilocybin mushrooms (aka magic mushrooms) will be allowed for adults 21 and older. As of 8:35 a.m. Wednesday, only 48.3% of voters were in favor of the measure, which needed at least 51% to pass. However, the final vote count flipped to 50.65% yes and 49.44% no. The results are still unofficial until they are certified, which is expected to occur on May 16. Assuming they are, Denver will be the first city in the country to decriminalize psychedelic mushrooms. Its important to note the bill does not legalized mushrooms, as the 2012 marijuana vote did, but largely prevents law enforcement officials from arresting or prosecuting people who had the fungi in their possession for personal use. Psilocybin mushrooms, like THC in marijuana, have hallucinogenic effects and can send users into an altered state for up to six hours. Effects vary by person, but many researchers say they (like marijuana) can have some medicinal uses, helping people make major changes (such as quitting smoking or overcoming bouts of depression) when used in a controlled setting. Proponents say the mushrooms are safer than marijuana or alcohol, but critics of the measure (who included Denvers mayor and district attorney Beth McCann) argued the vote was a step towards full legalization. Proponents of the drug tout its potential medical benefits. And theyre not looking to stop with Denver. Oregon, where weed is also legal, will have a measure on its statewide ballot in 2020, allowing the drug to be used at licensed facilities. Editors note: This story has been updated and corrected. An earlier version, based on incomplete vote results, mistakenly reported that the measure had failed. Story continues More must-read stories from Fortune: Heres what everyone gets paid in the (legal) weed industry Meet the marijuana billionaire who doesnt smoke weed The threat cannabis poses to the alcohol industry Follow Fortune on Flipboard for the latest news and analysis FILE PHOTO: Brochures with the logo of Deutsche Telekom AG are pictured at the shop in the headquarters of German telecommunications giant in Bonn, Germany, February 19, 2019. REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay/File Photo FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Vodafone's deal to open up its German broadband network marks a transparent attempt to save its $22 billion (16.8 billion pounds) deal to acquire European assets from Liberty Global, Deutsche Telekom said on Tuesday, slamming the move. Vodafone said earlier it would give Telefonica Deutschland wholesale access to its high-speed network to try to win approval from European Union competition regulators for the Liberty deal. "The proposal by Vodafone is apparently an attempt to rescue a merger that raises major concerns in the European Commission," Deutsche Telekom, the German market leader, said in a statement. The proposal would not lead to a single additional broadband cable being laid in Germany, Deutsche Telekom added, saying it could even slow work to build out super-fast fibre-optic networks - a government priority. (Reporting by Douglas Busvine; Editing by Thomas Seythal) ATHENS, Greece, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Diana Shipping Inc. (DSX) (the Company), a global shipping company specializing in the ownership of dry bulk vessels, today announced the filing of a supplement to its Offer to Purchase dated as of April 15, 2019 relating to the Companys tender offer to purchase up to 3,125,000 shares, or about 3.1%, of its outstanding common stock using funds available from cash and cash equivalents at a price of $3.20 per share, which tender offer will expire at the end of the day, 5:00 P.M., Eastern Time, on May 13, 2019, unless extended or withdrawn. The Company has filed Supplement No. 1 to the Offer to Purchase dated May 7, 2019, as an exhibit to Amendment No. 1 to Schedule TO dated May 7, 2019 and may be accessed from the Securities and Exchange Commissions website at www.sec.gov . If shareholders have any questions, please call our information agent, Georgeson LLC, by telephone, toll free at (800) 248-7690. Parties outside the U.S. can reach the information agent at +1-781-575-2137. About the Company Diana Shipping Inc. is a global provider of shipping transportation services through its ownership of dry bulk vessels. The Companys vessels are employed primarily on medium to long-term time charters and transport a range of dry bulk cargoes, including such commodities as iron ore, coal, grain and other materials along worldwide shipping routes. Certain Information Regarding the Tender Offer The information in this press release describing Diana Shipping Inc.s tender offer is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to buy or the solicitation of an offer to sell shares of Diana Shipping Inc.s common stock in the tender offer. The tender offer is being made only pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and the related materials that Diana Shipping Inc. is distributing to its shareholders, as they may be amended or supplemented. Shareholders should read such Offer to Purchase and related materials carefully and in their entirety because they contain important information, including the various terms and conditions of the tender offer. Shareholders of Diana Shipping Inc. may obtain a free copy of the Tender Offer Statement on Schedule TO, the Offer to Purchase and other documents that Diana Shipping Inc. is filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission from the Securities and Exchange Commissions website at www.sec.gov. Shareholders may also obtain a copy of these documents, without charge, from Georgeson LLC, the information agent for the tender offer, toll free at (800) 248-7690. Shareholders are urged to carefully read all of these materials prior to making any decision with respect to the tender offer. Shareholders and investors who have questions or need assistance may call Georgeson LLC, the information agent for the tender offer, toll free at (800) 248-7690. Parties outside the U.S. can reach the information agent at +1-781-575-2137. Story continues Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Matters discussed in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides safe harbor protections for forward-looking statements in order to encourage companies to provide prospective information about their business. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts. The Company desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words believe, anticipate, intends, estimate, forecast, project, plan, potential, may, should, expect, pending and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, Company managements examination of historical operating trends, data contained in the Companys records and other data available from third parties. Although the Company believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies that are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond the Companys control, the Company cannot assure you that it will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections. In addition to these important factors, other important factors that, in the Companys view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include the strength of world economies and currencies, general market conditions, including fluctuations in charter rates and vessel values, changes in demand for dry bulk shipping capacity, changes in the Companys operating expenses, including bunker prices, drydocking and insurance costs, the market for the Companys vessels, availability of financing and refinancing, changes in governmental rules and regulations or actions taken by regulatory authorities, potential liability from pending or future litigation, general domestic and international political conditions, potential disruption of shipping routes due to accidents or political events, vessel breakdowns and instances of off-hires and other factors. Please see the Companys filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for a more complete discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Corporate Contact: Ioannis Zafirakis Director, Chief Strategy Officer and Secretary Telephone: + 30-210-9470-100 Email: izafirakis@dianashippinginc.com Website: www.dianashippinginc.com Investor and Media Relations: Edward Nebb Comm-Counsellors, LLC Telephone: + 1-203-972-8350 Email: enebb@optonline.net Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 7, 2019) - DNI Metals Inc. (DNI: CSE) (OTC Pink: DMNKF) ("DNI" or the "Corporation") Application to the Autorite des marches financiers (the "AMF") DNI made an application to the AMF for a management cease trade order (the "MCTO"), which would restrict all trading in securities of the Corporation, whether direct or indirect, by management of the Corporation while the annual financials are being completed. The MCTO would not have affected the ability of shareholders who are not insiders of the Corporation to trade their securities. The MCTO was not granted. Since the AMF did not grant the MCTO the applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities have issued a general cease trade order against the Corporation for failure to file the 2018 Annual Financial Statements within the prescribed time period. DNI's board of directors and its management are working expeditiously to meet DNI's obligations relating to the filing of the 2018 Annual Financial Statements. The Corporation confirms that it intends to satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines found at sections 9 and 10 of Policy Statement 12-203 respecting Cease Trade Orders for Continuous Disclosure Defaults for so long as it remains in default as a result of the late filing of the 2018 Annual Financial Statements. During the period of default, DNI will issue bi-weekly default status reports in the form of further press releases, which will also be filed on SEDAR. The Corporation confirms that there are no insolvency proceedings against it as of the date of this press release. The Corporation also confirms that there is no other material information concerning the affairs of the Corporation that has not been generally disclosed as of the date of this press release. 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. Story continues Reasons for delay Despite its best efforts, the Corporation is currently not in a position to timely file the 2018 Annual Financial Statements, primarily as a result of the normal time period required for the auditors to complete the audit of the annual financial statements was not enough time this financial year. There are 2 main reasons for the delay: On-going Investigation As per DNI's Press release dated October 24, 2018: "DNI had been promised the environmental licenses would be completed early in 2018. Through an ongoing investigation, the Office National pour l'Environnement Madagascar (the "ONE") has determined and informed DNI that many of the receipts and documents were falsified, and that the fee payments had not been paid. In fact, the cahier d'charge and the environmental impact study for Marofody project had not been filed with the ONE." DNI is working with the ONE, its lawyers and its auditors to review and investigate the falsified documents and receipts. Change in management in Madagascar In October 2018, DNI terminated its relationship with its previous DNI country manager, and associated personal. Dan Weir, the CEO of DNI, assumed control of all DNI's Madagascar operations which includes, but is not limited to, obtaining the environmental licenses for its Vohitsara and Marofody properties. Mr. Weir put together a new team, which includes inhouse legal counsel, government relations personal, an office manager and an accountant. DNI is working with its auditors and reviewing the accounting in Madagascar. As DNI has stated in previous press releases, Dan Weir, CEO, and the new Malagasy team, have had to file and complete the proper documents, pay the proper fees, and complete the required technical and public consultation meetings, to obtain the environmental licenses. Unfortunately, all this work has taken significant time of the management team of DNI. Since DNI has completed all the requirements for the environmental licenses, its team is focusing on the investigation and completing the audit. Change of Financial year end to December 31 At DNI's last annual meeting, a motion was approved by shareholders to change DNI's year end to December 31. The previous year end was March 31. DNI's subsidiaries in Madagascar and Mauritius are required to file financials at December 31 year ends. DNI decided to change the year end of the Parent company, DNI Metals Inc., to better align with the accounting in Madagascar. This will simplify the accounting practices as DNI builds its pilot plant and gets into production. DNI - CSE DMNKF - OTC Pink Issued: 134,302,603 For further information, contact: DNI Metals Inc. - Dan Weir, President & CEO 416-720-0754 DanWeir@dnimetals.com Also visit www.dnimetals.com Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release may contain certain forward-looking information. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and such information involves various risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the ability for the Corporation to obtain the MCTO and its ability to file the 2018 Annual Financial Statements by June 15, 2019. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. A description of assumptions used to develop such forward-looking information and a description of risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in DNI's disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. DNI does not undertake to update any forward looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forwardlooking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, the Corporation assumes no obligation to update the forwardlooking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44606 Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE: DPZ) operations in Malaysia and Singapore have partnered with SingularityNET, a platform for artificial intelligence (AI) services, to use decentralized AI to improve its last-mile delivery process. Though retail businesses working within the food niche like Walmart Inc (NYSE: WMT) or Carrefour have shown interest in decentralized solutions (blockchain is a decentralized ledger), this appears to be the first initiative where a company tests a decentralized AI solution. "Our newest transformation effort is occurring in our operations function, where we are automating significant portions of our delivery operations and consolidating our operations centers. SingularityNET's AI algorithms and services will allow us to explore these efficiencies at scale," said Ba U Shan-Ting, the CEO of Domino's Malaysia and Singapore operations, in a statement. Though Shan-Ting did not explicitly mention the use of blockchain or a decentralized ledger in his statement, the connection to the technology comes from SingularityNET's infrastructure. SingularityNET is a full-stack AI solution that is powered by a decentralized protocol with the goal to provide people the possibility of creating, sharing and monetizing AI services at scale. For now, all that we can deduce from Shan-Ting's statement is that the company is working to improve its last-mile logistics, but it could be anyone's guess on the specifics of the "automation." However, based on Domino's history of innovation, it is reasonable to expect the company to step beyond technical jargon and bring decentralized AI networks to mainstream attention within the food logistics space. Domino's former CEO Patrick Doyle caught the attention of the industry when he insisted that Domino's was primarily a tech company that sold pizzas. The company understood early on that one of the biggest costs to the business was delivery, and it has consistently attempted to drive down delivery costs while increasing customer satisfaction. Story continues For instance, the company introduced Domino's Delivery Hotspots in the U.S. last year, that allow the company to deliver food to unexpected locations with hard-to-locate addresses like beaches, parks and parking lots. Customers find nearby drop-off points using their smartphones, where they can coordinate with Domino's to receive their order. "We know that delivery is all about convenience, and Domino's Hotspots are all about flexible delivery options," Russell Weiner, COO and president of Domino's Americas, said during the feature's unveiling. The new partnership will help Domino's leverage SingularityNET's AI algorithms that can enhance the pizza chain's operational capabilities and possibly open new frontiers and opportunities for the company to improve customer satisfaction levels in Malaysia and Singapore. The push towards technology is critical to the success of Domino's as it has continued to surprise investors with remarkable growth. On the back of 30 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth, Domino's became the largest pizza chain in terms of annual sales in the U.S., even when second-placed Pizza Hut has about 2,000 more domestic storefront outlets. The company now expects to hit $25 billion in revenue by 2025, which would be more than double what it did in 2017. "Embracing AI is what every company is going to need to do if they are going to succeed and flourish in the coming period. The projects we are discussing with Domino's now are envisioned as the start of a long series of creative and transformative AI collaborations. We are proud to embark on a future partnership with Domino's to achieve their ambition of becoming the leader in pizza delivery and customer brand loyalty by 2020," said Ben Goertzel, CEO of SingularityNET. Image Sourced From Facebook The post Domino's to expedite pizza delivery in Malaysia and Singapore using decentralized AI service appeared first on FreightWaves. See more from Benzinga 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. - Building on focus in oncology through newly-formed partnership with BlueRock Therapeutics to develop universal allogeneic cell medicines for cancer - - EDIT-101 (AGN-151587) for LCA10 on track for first patient dosing in second half of 2019 - - Initiated IND-enabling activities for potentially best-in-class medicine for sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia - - $342 million of cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities as of March 31, 2019 - CAMBRIDGE, Mass., May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Editas Medicine, Inc. (EDIT), a leading genome editing company, today reported business highlights and financial results for the first quarter of 2019. "2019 is off to a strong start with tangible progress on multiple fronts," said Cynthia Collins, interim Chief Executive Officer of Editas Medicine. We expanded and accelerated our focus in oncology through a newly formed collaboration with BlueRock Therapeutics. We made progress towards dosing patients in the second half with EDIT-101 for LCA10. And, we initiated IND-enabling activities for a potentially best-in-class medicine for sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. We look forward to maintaining the momentum through the remainder of the year and beyond. Recent Achievements and Outlook Advancing universal allogeneic cell medicines for cancer through partnership with BlueRock Therapeutics. Editas Medicine and BlueRock Therapeutics will combine their respective CRISPR genome editing and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) platforms to develop universal allogeneic cell medicines to treat cancer and other serious diseases. Gene-edited, iPSC-derived, allogeneic cell medicines represent universal, off-the-shelf treatments that may be mass produced with superior quality, greater scale, and lower cost than autologous or donor-derived therapies. The Company believes that the combination will enable the high level of multiplexed editing needed to realize the full potential of cell medicine, particularly in solid tumors where the greatest unmet need exists. EDIT-101 on track for first patient dosing in second half of 2019. Editas Medicine and Allergan Pharmaceuticals International Limited expect to enroll approximately 18 patients, aged 3 years and above, in a Phase 1/2 open label, dose escalation study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of EDIT-101 as a treatment for Leber congenital amaurosis 10 (LCA10). In April, initial data from the ongoing enLIGHTen natural history study of LCA10 patients were presented at the Retinal Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Summit by Principal Investigator Eric A. Pierce, M.D., Ph.D., Director of the Ocular Genomics Institute and William F. Chatlos Professor of Ophthalmology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School. Initiated IND-enabling activities for a potentially best-in-class medicine for sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. Editas Medicine is developing an experimental medicine to directly upregulate fetal hemoglobin by editing the beta-globin locus. The Company has previously presented data demonstrating potential advantages of its approach as compared to indirectly upregulating fetal hemoglobin by editing the BCL11A erythroid enhancer. Editas Medicine will present additional data next month at the 24 th Congress of the European Hematology Association. Progress towards an experimental medicine for Usher syndrome 2A (USH2A) . Pre-clinical in vivo proof-of-concept data presented at the 22 nd Annual Meeting of the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy demonstrated CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing of human USH2A exon 13 can rescue the retinal phenotype and restore auditory function in mice. Based on these data, the Company is optimizing a lead candidate to be ready for IND-enabling studies by the end of 2019. Strong balance sheet to advance the business. The Company held cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities of $342 million as of March 31, 2019, providing at least 24 months of funding for operating expenses and capital expenditures. Upcoming Events Story continues Editas Medicine will participate in the following investor events: 5 th Annual SunTrust Robinson Humphrey Life Sciences Summit, May 8, New York City; RBC Capital Markets 2019 Global Healthcare Conference, May 21, 8:00 a.m. ET, New York City; and Raymond James 2019 Life Sciences and MedTech Conference, June 18-19, New York City. Editas Medicine will participate in the following scientific and medical conferences: 24th Congress of the European Hematology Association, June 13-16, Amsterdam; and TIDES Oligonucleotide and Peptide Therapeutics Conference, May 20-23, San Diego. First Quarter 2019 Financial Results Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities at March 31, 2019, were $342.1 million, compared to $369.0 million at December 31, 2018. For the three months ended March 31, 2019, net loss attributable to common stockholders was $29.2 million, or $0.60 per share, compared to $30.9 million, or $0.67 per share, for the same period in 2018. Collaboration and other research and development revenues were $2.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to $3.9 million for the same period in 2018. The $1.9 million decrease was primarily attributable to a $1.0 million decrease in revenue recognized pursuant to our collaboration agreement with Juno Therapeutics, a Celgene company that is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Celgene Corporation, and a $0.9 million decrease in revenue recognized pursuant to our strategic alliance with Allergan Pharmaceuticals International Limited, partially offset by $0.1 million in revenue recognized in the first quarter of 2019 pursuant to an out-license agreement. Research and development expenses decreased by $5.5 million, to $15.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, from $21.3 million for the same period in 2018. The $5.5 million decrease was primarily attributable to $5.8 million in decreased process and platform development expenses, mostly relating to the acquisition of certain non-capitalizable intangible assets during the first quarter of 2018, and $0.5 million in decreased stock-based compensation expenses, partially offset by $0.6 million in increased other expenses including facility-related expenses and $0.3 million in increased employee related expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by $3.3 million to $17.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, from $14.2 million for the same period in 2018. The $3.3 million increase was primarily attributable to $1.9 million in increased stock-based compensation expenses, $2.1 million in increased professional service expenses and $0.7 million in increased employee related expenses, partially offset by $1.4 million in decreased intellectual property and patent related fees. Conference Call The Editas Medicine management team will host a conference call and webcast today at 5:00 p.m. ET to provide and discuss a corporate update and financial results for the first quarter of 2019. To access the call, please dial 844-348-3801 (domestic) or 213-358-0955 (international) and provide the passcode 8457858. A live webcast of the call will be available on the Investors & Media section of the Editas Medicine website at www.editasmedicine.com and a replay will be available approximately two hours after its completion. About Editas Medicine As a leading genome editing company, Editas Medicine is focused on translating the power and potential of the CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cpf1 (also known as Cas12a) genome editing systems into a robust pipeline of treatments for people living with serious diseases around the world. Editas Medicine aims to discover, develop, manufacture, and commercialize transformative, durable, precision genomic medicines for a broad class of diseases. For the latest information and scientific presentations, please visit www.editasmedicine.com. About EDIT-101 (AGN-151587) EDIT-101 is a CRISPR-based experimental medicine under investigation for the treatment of Leber congenital amaurosis 10 (LCA10). EDIT-101 is administered via a subretinal injection to reach and deliver the gene editing machinery directly to photoreceptor cells. About Leber Congenital Amaurosis Leber congenital amaurosis, or LCA, is a group of inherited retinal degenerative disorders caused by mutations in at least 18 different genes. It is the most common cause of inherited childhood blindness, with an incidence of two to three per 100,000 live births worldwide. Symptoms of LCA appear within the first years of life, resulting in significant vision loss and potentially blindness. The most common form of the disease, LCA10, is a monogenic disorder caused by mutations in the CEP290 gene and is the cause of disease in approximately 2030 percent of all LCA patients. About the Editas Medicine-Allergan Alliance In March 2017, Editas Medicine and Allergan Pharmaceuticals International Limited (Allergan) entered a strategic alliance and option agreement under which Allergan received exclusive access and the option to license up to five of Editas Medicines genome editing programs for ocular diseases, including EDIT-101 (AGN-151587). Under the terms of the agreement, Allergan is responsible for development and commercialization of optioned products, subject to Editas Medicines option to co-develop and share equally in the profits and losses of two optioned products in the United States. In August 2018, Allergan exercised its option to develop and commercialize EDIT-101 globally for the treatment of LCA10. Additionally, Editas Medicine exercised its option to co-develop and share equally in the profits and losses from EDIT-101 in the United States. Editas Medicine is also eligible to receive development and commercial milestones, as well as royalty payments on a per-program basis. The agreement covers a range of first-in-class ocular programs targeting serious, vision-threatening diseases based on Editas Medicines unparalleled CRISPR genome editing platform, including CRISPR/Cas9 and CRISPR/Cpf1 (also known as Cas12a). Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words anticipate, believe, continue, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, plan, potential, predict, project, target, should, would, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Forward-looking statements in this press release include statements regarding the Companys plans with respect to the planned Phase 1/2 clinical trial for EDIT-101 (AGN-151587), including dosing patients in the second half of 2019. The Company may not actually achieve the plans, intentions, or expectations disclosed in these forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Actual results or events could differ materially from the plans, intentions and expectations disclosed in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including: uncertainties inherent in the initiation and completion of preclinical studies and clinical trials and clinical development of the Companys product candidates; availability and timing of results from preclinical studies and clinical trials; whether interim results from a clinical trial will be predictive of the final results of the trial or the results of future trials; expectations for regulatory approvals to conduct trials or to market products and availability of funding sufficient for the Companys foreseeable and unforeseeable operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements. These and other risks are described in greater detail under the caption Risk Factors included in the Companys most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and in other filings that the Company may make with the Securities and Exchange Commission in the future. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and the Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise. Editas Medicine, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited) (amounts in thousands, except per share and share data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Collaboration and other research and development revenues $ 2,069 $ 3,927 Operating expenses: Research and development 15,842 21,300 General and administrative 17,489 14,186 Total operating expenses 33,331 35,486 Operating loss (31,262 ) (31,559 ) Other income, net: Other (expense) income, net (44 ) 182 Interest income, net 2,057 438 Total other income, net 2,013 620 Net loss $ (29,249 ) $ (30,939 ) Net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted $ (0.60 ) $ (0.67 ) Weighted-average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted 48,838,229 45,992,008 Editas Medicine, Inc. Selected Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Items (unaudited) (amounts in thousands) March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities $ 342,065 $ 368,955 Working capital 306,038 338,876 Total assets 378,916 420,386 Deferred revenue, net of current portion 105,865 115,614 Construction financing lease obligation, net of current portion - 32,417 Total stockholders equity 217,162 236,162 Investor Contact Mark Mullikin (617) 401-9083 mark.mullikin@editasmed.com Media Contact Cristi Barnett (617) 401-0113 cristi.barnett@editasmed.com Exxon Mobil Corporation XOM and Chinese energy giant PetroChina Company Limited PTR are planning a megaproject worth $53 billion in Iraq, a significant oil producer and an OPEC member. The project is expected to boost hydrocarbon output in the country using seawater from the Persian Gulf. ExxonMobil is expected to ramp up production from Iraqs southern oilfields around Basra and capture natural gas that is flared in the process. The largest publicly-traded energy company and PetroChina will likely develop Nahr Bin Umar and Artawi oilfields in the country, as well as boost production from these fields from almost 125,000 BPD as of now to 500,000 BPD. Also, the company ExxonMobil is anticipated to process around 100 million standard cubic feet of natural gas per day from these fields. Around 10,000 jobs are expected to be generated through this project while the government of Iraq can get $400 billion in revenues over the life of the deal. The interested parties included in the deal are yet to discuss the procedure via which profits will be divided. Notably, ExxonMobil has two subsidiaries operating in the country. In 2013, one of these subsidiaries had signed an agreement with a PetroChina affiliate to work in the West Qurna I project in Iraq. The recent deal will further increase ExxonMobil's footprint in the country. Price Performance ExxonMobil has lost 1.8% in the past year compared with 10.4% collective decline of the industry it belongs to. Zacks Rank & Stocks to Consider Currently, ExxonMobil carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Prospective players in the energy space worth considering include Hess Corporation HES and Apache Corporation APA, each holding a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Hess earnings are expected to grow 90.5% through 2019. Apache beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the last four quarters, with average positive earnings surprise of 31%. Story continues Breakout Biotech Stocks with Triple-Digit Profit Potential The biotech sector is projected to surge beyond $775 billion by 2024 as scientists develop treatments for thousands of diseases. Theyre also finding ways to edit the human genome to literally erase our vulnerability to these diseases. Zacks has just released Century of Biology: 7 Biotech Stocks to Buy Right Now to help investors profit from 7 stocks poised for outperformance. Our recent biotech recommendations have produced gains of +98%, +119% and +164% in as little as 1 month. The stocks in this report could perform even better. See these 7 breakthrough stocks now>> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report PetroChina Company Limited (PTR) : Free Stock Analysis Report Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) : Free Stock Analysis Report Apache Corporation (APA) : Free Stock Analysis Report Hess Corporation (HES) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research FILE PHOTO: A Lufthansa Airbus A321-100 airplane takes off from the airport in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, July 29, 2018. REUTERS/Paul Hanna/File Photo BONN, Germany (Reuters) - Lufthansa will make an offer for Thomas Cook's German airline Condor with an option to acquire the remaining airlines of the British travel group, Lufthansa's CEO said on Tuesday. Lufthansa boss Carsten Spohr added it was unlikely a single buyer could acquire all Thomas Cook airlines due to antitrust regulations and declined to comment on the offer price. "We decided yesterday in the meeting of the management board to bid for all of Condor with the option to be able to extend this (bid) to all Thomas Cook airlines," Spohr said on the sidelines of Lufthansa's annual general meeting in Bonn. Thomas Cook shares were up more than 10 percent while Lufthansa shares declined 1.4 percent. Thomas Cook put its profitable airlines business up for sale in February after profit warnings in 2018 left it needing to raise cash. The indebted travel group's airlines business consists of Germany's Condor, as well as British, Scandinavian and Spanish operations. Sources said earlier this month that Indigo Partners and Lufthansa were most interested in the business, with a deadline of May 7 set for expressions of interest. Lufthansa's Spohr earlier this year said his company will be an active player in consolidation among European airlines. Lufthansa, which owns airlines like Swiss and Austrian Airlines, has also expressed its interest in Italian flagship carrier Alitalia. Spohr on Tuesday reiterated that Lufthansa would only be interested in the loss-making company if it were restructured and the Italian government left out. (Reporting by Ilona Wissenbach; Writing by Thomas Seythal; Editing by Tassilo Hummel/Keith Weir) OCALA, Fla., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (NYSE American: HEB) Hemispherx Biopharma Inc.s CEO Thomas K. Equels will be attending the 2019 Celebration of Biotechnology where hell meet with investors and industry representatives to discuss the companys recent successes and plans for the future. Hemispherx is an immuno-pharma company focused on the research and development of therapeutics to treat multiple types of cancers, as well as immune-deficiency disorders. The BioFlorida Inc. sponsored event is being held May 9 at Foundation Park, 14193 NW 119th Terrace, Alachua, Fla., 32615. Approximately 100 life sciences exhibitors and more than 500 industry professionals are expected to attend. Equels' meetings will focus on the companys ongoing clinical trials and programs using its flagship investigational drug Ampligen in multiple cancer types. The company recently announced significant progress in its Ampligen pancreatic cancer program and multiple Ampligen-plus-checkpoint-blockade immuno-oncology programs, including additional planned trials at major research institutes, subject to obtaining funding. Hemispherx will be studying the effect of Ampligen on nine different solid tumor types: pancreatic, ovarian, colorectal, prostate, lung, bladder, breast, melanoma and renal cell carcinoma. See a full immuno-oncology update here: https://hemispherx.irpass.com/Hemispherx-Biopharma-Announces-Significant-Progress-in-its-Ampligen-Pancreatic-Cancer-Program-and-Mu Learn more about the event: https://www.bioflorida.com/page/Celebration19 About BioFlorida BioFlorida represents 6,200 establishments and research organizations in the biopharmaceuticals, medical technology, healthIT and bioagriculture sectors that collectively employ 87,000 Floridians. Members of the BioFlorida network include emerging and established life science companies, universities, research institutions, hospitals, medical centers, incubators, economic development agencies, investors and service providers. Story continues About Hemispherx Biopharma Hemispherx Biopharma, Inc. is an immuno-pharma company focused on the research and development of therapeutics to treat multiple types of cancers, as well as immune-deficiency disorders. Hemispherx's flagship products include the Argentina-approved drug rintatolimod (trade names Ampligen or Rintamod) and the FDA-approved drug Alferon N Injection. Based on results of published, peer-reviewed pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, Hemispherx believes that Ampligen may have broad-spectrum anti-viral and anti-cancer properties. Clinical trials of Ampligen already conducted include studies of the potential treatment of cancer patients with renal cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. These and other potential uses will require additional clinical trials to generate the safety and effectiveness data necessary to support regulatory approval. Rintatolimod is a double-stranded RNA being developed for globally important debilitating diseases and disorders of the immune system. Cautionary Statement Some of the statements included in this press release may be forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Among other things, for those statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any forward-looking statements set forth in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. We do not undertake to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof. This press release and prior releases are available at www.hemispherx.net. The information found on our website is not incorporated by reference into this press release and is included for reference purposes only. Contacts: Hemispherx Biopharma, Inc. Phone: 800-778-4042 Email: IR@hemispherx.net Or LHA Investor Relations Miriam Weber Miller Senior Vice President Phone: +1-212-838-3777 Email: mmiller@lhai.com It comes exactly one year after President Donald Trump announced America's withdrawal from the deal that has since been on life support as European, Russian and Chinese signatories endeavor to save it. Rouhani did not signal the end of deal entirely, but gave Europe an ultimatum: It will have 60 days to either follow the Trump administration or resume oil trade with Iran, violating U.S. sanctions. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Wednesday his country would end its compliance with two particular conditions of the country's nuclear deal. It comes exactly one year after President Donald Trump announced America's withdrawal from the deal that has since been on life support as European, Russian and Chinese signatories endeavor to save it. Rouhani did not signal the end of deal entirely, but gave Europe an ultimatum: It will have 60 days to either follow the Trump administration or resume oil trade with Iran to save the agreement, violating U.S. sanctions. A failure to do the latter would prompt Tehran to return to high level uranium enrichment, the Iranian leader said. "The path we have chosen today is not the path of war, it is the path of diplomacy," Rouhani said in a televised speech. "But diplomacy with a new language and a new logic." Starting Wednesday, Iran will keep unspent enriched uranium instead of selling it, which it had been doing under the stipulations of the 2015 nuclear deal. This will help build its store of low enriched uranium and heavy water, which are used in nuclear reactors. If Europe does not step up to save the deal and protect Iran's oil and banking sectors from U.S. sanctions, Rouhani said, it will restart construction of its Arak nuclear reactor, which was capable of producing weapons-grade plutonium and had been shut down as part of the 2015 deal. Iran's level of uranium enrichment is said to be currently at just over 3%, as allowed under the nuclear deal for power generation. Enrichment needs to be at around 90% in order to build a bomb, from which Iran remains a long way away, experts say. But governments in the West fear Iran's atomic program could allow it to eventually build nuclear weapons, something at international bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency and the UN said was being effectively prevented by the 2015 deal. Story continues International reaction Russian officials took news as an opportunity to criticize U.S. policy, blaming external pressure from Washington as the cause of Iran's roll-back of its deal commitments. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said Wednesday that he expects European signatories to fulfil their obligations under agreement. France reiterated its support for the deal, but warned that Iranian abandonment of its obligations would lead to possible triggering of sanctions mechanisms by Europe. EU member states have created a "special purpose vehicle" to skirt U.S. sanctions and continue doing business with Iran called INSTEX, angering the U.S., but the vehicle is said to have limited effectiveness. French Defense Minister Florence Parly said in a local radio interview that the nuclear pact had been undermined for months. "Today nothing would be worse than Iran, itself, leaving this agreement," she said. Bomber task forces in the Gulf Trump administration officials have warned of "troubling and escalatory threats" coming from Iran in recent days; on Sunday, U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton announced the deployment of a carrier strike group and bomber task force to the Persian Gulf to send an "unmistakable message to the Iranian regime" against the use of force against U.S. interests. Shortly thereafter, military experts and analysts pointed out that the ship's deployment to the region was likely routine and long-planned, with many speculating that the White House was using that as an opportunity to intimidate the Iranian regime. The Iranian nuclear deal, enacted under the Obama administration along with Germany, France, the U.K., Russia and China, saw financial sanctions on Iran lifted in exchange for curbs to its nuclear program. Since Washington's withdrawal last year and subsequent re-imposition of sanctions on numerous sectors of Iran's economy, most significantly its oil exports, the Islamic Republic's economy has fallen into deep recession. Its currency has tanked, scores of international companies have left the country and Iranians are struggling to afford basic goods. For the Trump administration, the deal did not go far enough to address what it calls Iran's malign behavior, including its support of proxy militant groups around the region, ballistic missile testing, and human rights abuses. Rouhani's announcement also comes just days after Washington allowed sanctions waivers on eight major Iranian oil importing countries to expire , putting further pressure on Tehran's main source of revenue as part of its "maximum pressure" campaign. More From CNBC Israel conducted an airstrike on a Hamas facility it said was used to launch cyberattacks against the country from Gaza. The incident is an unprecedented immediate, kinetic response to a cyberattack and is likely to be closely watched by cyberwarfare experts. NATO has been closely tracking the evolution of "hybrid" warfare involving both cyberattacks and live fighting, ever since a devastating series of cyberattacks against Estonia in 2007. The Israel Defense Forces said Sunday it responded to a cyberattack from a Hamas-controlled compound in Gaza with an airstrike, a rare mix of physical and cyber conflict on the world stage. The cyberattacks emanating from the Gaza facility were aimed at harming Israeli civilians and was thwarted online before the strike, the IDF said, though they did not immediately release further details about the cyberattack. In Gaza, Hamas militants have launched 600 rockets into Israel, while the country has retaliated with hundreds of strikes on military targets there. International organizations and militaries have long debated how or when countries should use military force to respond to cyberattacks that could harm citizens. The incident is certain to spark further debate on how cyberattacks and live conflict should mix. It's an important distinction as countries including the United States grow increasingly concerned at the possibility a cyberattack on the electric grid, water supply or other infrastructure could lead to loss of human life, and create norms for how they will respond to those threats, either immediately or preemptively. NATO, cyberwarfare experts will weigh in The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has been the preeminent world group involved in creating rules and norms for how cyber conflict and "kinetic," or live physical conflict, should intersect. NATO's role at the forefront of this debate has roots in 2007, when a dispute between Russia and Estonia over military statues led to a cyberattack by Russia against the smaller country. The attack devastated communications infrastructure, knocked out access to banks and news broadcasts in Estonia, and was the first example of how a cyberattack could be use to hobble a country's citizens. Story continues As a result of the attacks, NATO headquartered its international Cyber Defense Center in Tallinn, Estonia's capital. The organization has closely tracked what it refers to as "hybrid warfare." In 2016, the organization expanded its list of warfare domains air, land and sea to include "cyber" for the first time, meaning a cyberattack on any NATO organization could invite retaliation from all of them. Tweet Further attacks, including the ransomware attacks of 2017 and attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure from Russia , among others, have all contributed to a young but growing body of knowledge of how to handle major cyber conflicts in realtime. But few countries have been involved in such a hybrid conflict that spilled over to the physical realm. Israel's actions will likely shift the debate of how to handle cyberattacks in times of conflict or war forward. This is especially true because Israel is already a world leader in cybersecurity and cyberwarfare, making its actions and techniques in this case likely to be emulated by other countries in the future. More From CNBC ROME, May 7 (Reuters) - Italy's Audit Court has appealed to the country's top court against a ruling that it cannot hear a case against Morgan Stanley in a derivatives case, a judicial source said on Tuesday. On March 7 an appeals court confirmed a previous sentence in June 2018 stating that the Audit Court did not have jurisdiction to hear the case against Morgan Stanley and former senior Treasury officials. Prosecutors had requested that Morgan Stanley pay some 2.7 billion euros ($3.02 billion) of damages to the Italian state. ($1 = 0.8945 euros) (Reporting by Domenico Lusi, writing by Francesca Piscioneri, editing by Gavin Jones ) NEW YORK and LONDON, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Keefe, Bruyette & Woods (KBW), a full-service, boutique investment bank and broker-dealer that specializes in the financial services sector, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Stifel Financial Corp. (SF), today announced that Erickson (Erick) Davis has rejoined the firm as Managing Director and Head of European Equities. He is based in KBWs London office. Over the years, Erick has earned a reputation as a forward-thinker with deep knowledge of the financial services sector and he shares our laser focus on client service, said Thomas Michaud, CEO of KBW. We are thrilled to welcome him back to the firm. His appointment demonstrates our commitment to KBWs European business and our efforts to attract the very best talent to our organization. Mr. Davis comes to KBW from Autonomous Research, an independent research firm specializing in the financial services sector and fintech, which was sold to Alliance Bernstein earlier this year. He first joined Autonomous Research as a Partner in 2012 and served in various capacities in senior management before his appointment as CEO in 2017. During his tenure, he managed global heads of research, sales, and trading across European, U.S., and Asian businesses. He led the firms push into fintech and successfully managed the implementation of its MiFID II strategy. Mr. Davis began his career at KBW, where he served as Senior Vice President of Institutional Equity Sales. This is an exciting time to rejoin KBW, which is one of the most recognized and respected brands in global financial services, said Erickson Davis. Financials are the single largest sector of the European market and some of the worlds most innovative fintech companies are based on this side of the Atlantic. I look forward to helping our clients navigate evolving market dynamics and discover investment opportunities. KBW currently provides equity research coverage on 614 companies from around the world, including 136 European banks, insurance companies and other publicly-traded financial services firms. KBW is also among the most active traders of bank stocks and operates the largest financial services sales force globally. Story continues KBW Information KBW LLC, a Stifel company, operates in the U.S. and Europe through its broker dealer subsidiaries, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. and Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited (SNEL), also trading as Keefe, Bruyette & Woods Europe (KBW Europe). Over the years, KBW has established itself as a leading authority in the banking, insurance, brokerage, asset management, mortgage banking, fintech and specialty finance sectors. Founded in 1962, the firm maintains industry-leading positions in the areas of research, corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions as well as sales and trading in equities securities of financial services companies. Stifel Company Information Stifel Financial Corp. (SF) is a financial services holding company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, that conducts its banking, securities, and financial services business through several wholly owned subsidiaries. Stifels broker-dealer clients are served in the United States through Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, including its Eaton Partners business division; Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc.; Miller Buckfire & Co., LLC; Century Securities Associates, Inc., and in the United Kingdom and Europe through Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited. The Companys broker-dealer affiliates provide securities brokerage, investment banking, trading, investment advisory, and related financial services to individual investors, professional money managers, businesses, and municipalities. Stifel Bank and Stifel Bank & Trust offer a full range of consumer and commercial lending solutions. Stifel Trust Company, N.A. and Stifel Trust Company Delaware, N.A. offer trust and related services. To learn more about Stifel, please visit the Companys website at www.stifel.com . Media Contact: Neil Shapiro, (212) 271-3447 shapiron@stifel.com Lyft Tries to Assure Investors That Losses Will Drop in 2020 (Bloomberg) -- In its first financial report since going public, Lyft Inc. exceeded analysts sales expectations and assured investors that its hefty losses will decrease next year. The San Francisco-based company projected second-quarter revenue of $800 million to $810 million. Analysts were expecting $782 million, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Sales grew 95 percent to $776 million in the first quarter, beating estimates by $38 million. Lyft, the second-largest ride-hailing service in North America, also reported an eye-popping net loss of $1.14 billion in the quarter, which was larger than the companys loss for the entire year of 2018. Most of the costs were attributed to stock-based compensation and expenses tied to the initial public offering, but the numbers still unnerved some investors. Shares are down 18 percent from the March IPO price. On a conference call after the report, Chief Financial Officer Brian Roberts said 2019 would be the peak year for losses, reiterating what executives said during the IPO roadshow. The report suggests intense competition with Uber Technologies Inc. in the ride-hailing market will continue, at least through the end of the year. Lyft projected a loss before interest, taxes and other expenses of as much as $1.18 billion for 2019. It anticipates sales of $3.28 billion to $3.3 billion for the year, which is above estimates. Uber had estimated about $3 billion in revenue in the first quarter, up 19 percent from a year before. On Tuesday, Bloomberg reported that Uber has enough demand to price its IPO shares at the top of its current range. Uber is expected to price Thursday and begin trading Friday on the New York Stock Exchange, in whats expected to be the biggest U.S. IPO in years. Lyft had warned investors that 2019 will be a costly year. Uber has similarly signaled that competition has further extended its losses. Investors are watching for an eventual cease-fire, but the battle for market share remains the priority for the time being, according to analysts. Story continues The sales growth rate of about 60 percent for Lyft in the second quarter would be a major slowdown from the previous period, but investors shouldnt worry, said Thomas White, an analyst at D.A. Davidson. This is a large business, and revenue growth is going to decelerate, he said. Its not decelerating nearly as rapidly as Ubers revenue is. In its financial statement, Lyft said active riders climbed 46 percent to 20.5 million. Meanwhile, revenue per active rider increased 34 percent to $37.86. Lyft didnt disclose gross bookings this quarter, eliminating one measure investors have used to compare the business to Ubers. Lyft had shared an annual number in its IPO filing. Lyft used the occasion to tout a new agreement with Waymo. The Alphabet Inc. unit will deploy 10 autonomous vehicles near Phoenix in the next few months for customers to book through the Lyft app. (Updates with CFOs comments starting in the first paragraph.) --With assistance from Ian King. To contact the reporter on this story: Eric Newcomer in San Francisco at enewcomer@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Mark Milian at mmilian@bloomberg.net, Alistair Barr For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - MAX RESOURCE CORP. (TSXV: MXR) (OTC Pink: MXROF) (FSE: M1D1) ("Max" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding Letter of Intent (the "LOI") dated May 7, 2019 with Noble Metals Limited and Buena Fortuna Mining Company Pty Ltd. (together, the "Vendors") whereby the Vendors shall grant an option to Max to acquire up to 100% of their interest in Andagueda Mining Pty Ltd. ("Andagueda") which holds an exploration and mining Agreement with the Tahami Indigenous Reservation of Alto Andagueda ("TAHAMI") for the North Choco Gold-Copper Project ("North Choco"). North Choco is located adjacent and trending to the NE of the Company's 2,140 sq. km Choco Gold-Platinum Project ("Choco"), located 100km SW of Medellin, Colombia with the following highlights: Through Andagueda's historic agreement, North Choco encompasses TAHAMI's 500 sq. km land area, and includes exploration and development of economic mineral resources on: Indigenous Communities Mining Zone 8-1704 covering 6535.7 hectares and Mining Concession BAE-112 covering 720.6 hectares; Andagueda conducted a reconnaissance visit of the North Choco property in January 2019, concentrating on the historic gold mines taking 14 samples, including the following channel samples: 0.3m at 262.0 g/t gold + 0.57% copper + 941 ppm cobalt 2m at 29.1 g/t gold 1.6m at 20.7 g/t gold + 592 ppm cobalt 0.3m at 49.3 g/t gold + 11.4% copper + 502 ppm cobalt North Choco is located 47 km SW of AngloGold Ashanti's Nuevo Chaquiro porphyry copper discovery; AngloGold's 03-Nov-2014 News Release announced an initial Inferred Resource of 604Mt at 0.65% copper and 0.32g/t gold for contained metal content of 3.95Mt of copper and 6.13Moz of gold. This is one of five known porphyry centres concentrated within a 15 sq. km area; Max cautions investors it has not yet verified the Andagueda and AngloGold sampling data. Max further cautions investors mineralization on the Nuevo Chaquiro property is not necessarily indicative of similar mineralization at North Choco. AngloGold's initial reconnaissance in 2005 within the North Choco property area identified pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite and arsenopyrite, in a matrix of quartz and calcite from historic gold mines and copper porphyry prospects; there was no follow up because of access restrictions; The North Choco property significantly expands Max's Choco landholdings from 2,140 to 2,640 sq. km, with North Choco contiguous to properties held by AngloGold Ashanti and Continental Gold; Story continues Exploration at North Choco will initially focus on verification and follow up of the historic mining activities and the AngloGold and Andagueda exploration data within the 720.6 hectare mining lease and expanding to the 6535.7-hectare Mining Area and the 500 sq. km community area. "Max has achieved a significant opportunity, with the TAHAMI community's much sought out mineral properties," commented Max Resource CEO Brett Matich. "This acquisition adds leverage to Max's copper holdings and complements its existing gold and platinum portfolio, as historic government surveys suggest the North Choco project has excellent potential for porphyry copper," he continued. Cannot view this image? Visit: https://media.zenfs.com/en-us/newsfile_64/0a4f06a4b46bd7b68404a809a40ff3d1 Map 1 To view an enhanced version of Map 1, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/44623_729c2de304e988f9_002full.jpg North Choco Gold-Copper Project Through the acquisition of Andagueda, North Choco will add 500 sq. km to Max's Choco project, bringing the consolidated landholdings to 2,640 sq. km. North Choco is contiguous to properties held by AngloGold Ashanti and Continental Gold and is located approximately 80km SE of the City of Medellin, Colombia. The terms of the February 7, 2019 Exploration and Exploitation Operation Development and Participation in Net Profits Agreement with Tahami Indigenous Reservation of Alto Andagueda (the "TAHAMI Agreement") provides North Choco certain mineral rights over the 500 sq. km area including the exploration and development of economic mineral resources on Indigenous Communities Mining Zone 8-1704 covering 6535.7 hectares, granted July 29 1996 and Mining Concession Contract BAE-112 covering 720.6 hectares is a fully granted exploration, development and mining license granted June 26, 2001. The main veins at Mina Morron have been explored and mined since the late 1800's, with production periods in 1929-1930 and 1948-1968. The geology of the North Choco project consists of Cretaceous mudstones to sandstone in the east and Palecone to Eocene basalts, breccias, agglomerates and tuffs in the west. These units are intruded by the monzonites and tonalites of the Miocene Farallones batholith. Presently known mineralization, largely quartz veins, is hosted in the basalts and the intrusive, with historic exploration confined to the 720.6-hectare mining lease. In 2005, AngloGold Ashanti conducted a site visit targeting the copper porphyry potential of North Choco; this resulted in identification of pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite and arsenopyrite, in a matrix of quartz and calcite from historic gold mines and copper porphyry prospects, however, AngloGold was unable to follow up the anomaly's because of land access restrictions. Located on trend and 47km NE of North Choco, AngloGold's Nuevo Chaquiro discovery was the result of a systematic stream sediment geochemistry survey initiated in 2004. Follow up of a modest localized gold anomaly led to identification of the "Discovery Outcrop" in 2005. In 2014 AngloGold reported a maiden Inferred Resource of 604Mt at 0.65% copper and 0.32g/t gold for contained metal content of 3.95Mt of copper and 6.13Moz of gold.; This is one of five known porphyry centres concentrated within a 15 sq. km area. The Nuevo Chaquiro deposit was a blind discovery resulting from identification porphyry style alteration and mineralization during follow up of a regional stream sediment sampling survey. The geology of Nuevo Chaquiro consists of Miocene tuffs, andesites, basalts and agglomerates intruded by small stocks and dykes of Miocene diorites and quartz diorites. Site visit and exploration programs Andagueda conducted a reconnaissance visit of the North Choco property in January 2019, concentrating on the historic gold mines, taking 14 channel samples and four chip samples, 7 of 14 samples assayed above 1 g/t and up to 262 g/t gold, plus copper graded up to 11.4%. The Max exploration team is currently at North Choco completing preliminary exploration. The team is mapping and sampling the historic Mina Morron, Mina Paloma and Mine La Esmeralda gold mines. They are also sampling other Colonial occurrences within both the mining area and the TAHAMI Community Area. After completing the preliminary exploration phase, the Max exploration team will commence a property wide stream sediment sampling and prospecting program with the assistance of members of the greater TAHAMI community. The community members will be able to guide the Max geologists to outcrop and mineralization locations handed down generation to generation. The methodology of the program will be similar to the effective program utilized by AngloGold Ashanti that lead to the Nuevo Chaquiro discovery. Sample No. Location Sample Type Sample Width (m) Description Gold(g/t) Copper(ppm) Cobalt(ppm) 051455 Morron Channel 0.3 Massive po, cp, qz cut by qz veinlets. 262.000 5740 941 051456 Morron Channel 2.0 Diorite, ch alteration, ac veinlets, qz, (po). 29.100 66 37 051461 Paloma Channel 1.6 Fine grained dark green - gray rock, veinlets qz, massive sulphides, ap, cp. 20.700 464 592 051457 Morron Channel 0.1 Massive mt, po, cp, minor qz veinlets. 49.300 114000 502 051453 Morron Channel 0.3 Qz veinlets flat, po, mt, (cp). 5.990 308 46 051460 Morron Channel 0.3 Vein qz, po, se? 4.700 1005 353 051459 Morron Channel 0.5 Massive po & f. g. dark green rock, veinlets qz, po, (cp), disseminated mt, po. 1.145 1710 192 Cannot view this image? Visit: https://media.zenfs.com/en-us/newsfile_64/b5e7a22cb45b51b45fc83e26aa1819a7 Map 2: Andagueda Channel Sampling & AngloGold Ashanti Sampling Locations within Mining License BAE-112 To view an enhanced version of Map 2, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/44623_729c2de304e988f9_003full.jpg Cannot view this image? Visit: https://media.zenfs.com/en-us/newsfile_64/28f9df317ce6f41b6378def75f5efa2b Figure 1 To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/44623_729c2de304e988f9_004full.jpg Choco Gold-Platinum Project Exploration at Choco continues, focusing on expanding the area underlain by the gold-bearing conglomerates outside of the 1,000 sq. km exploration area. Testing of the base of the surface gravels will continue as well to establish zones of gold enrichment to assist in targeting zones of enrichment in the underlying conglomerates. Net Profit Return Under the terms of the TAHAMI Agreement, the TAHAMI Council is entitled to a 12.5% of Net Profit Return to the Council and a 5% of Net Profit Return to the Committee from any production, from any present or future mining areas within the TAHAMI 500 sq. km land area. Net Profit Return is a non-IFRS measure defined in the TAHAMI Agreement to mean: gross proceeds derived from the sale of the mineral, less all outgoings, costs, charges and expenses incurred in relation to the mining rights and production of the mineral, deductions include all exploration, development and pre-production expenditures, reclamation costs, amortized capital costs and all expenses including but not limited to all mining, crushing, treatment, processing, smelting, refining, transporting, assaying, sampling, handling, storage, sales costs, insurance, rents, marketing and any other related costs. About the Transaction Under the terms of the binding LOI, Max and the Vendors shall enter into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Max shall earn an initial 51% interest in Andagueda, and an option to acquire the remaining 49% (the "Option") by paying a non-refundable cash payment of CAD $25,000 to the Vendors within five days of the signing of the LOI, and by issuing an aggregate of 12,750,000 common shares of Max to the Vendors upon the closing of the Transaction (the "Closing"). In order to exercise the Option and acquire the remaining 49% interest in Andagueda (for a total of a 100% interest), Max may issue an additional 12,250,000 common shares of Max to the Vendors and incur exploration and development expenditures of at least CAD $500,000 on or before the date that is twelve (12) months after the date on which Closing occurs. If the parties have not executed a definitive agreement in respect of the transaction on or before 180 days from May 7, 2019, Max may elect to terminate the LOI. There are a number of conditions precedent to the closing of the transaction which include the completion of due diligence, the execution of a definitive agreement, and board, regulatory, and TSX Venture Exchange approvals. There are no finders' fees payable in connection with the proposed transaction. About Max Resource Corp. Max is a mineral exploration company focused on the development and acquisition of prospective projects in the rich mineral belts of Colombia. The Company has established significant exploration infrastructure and local community support for the Choco Gold and Platinum Project, located 100 km south of Medellin, which covers or is adjacent to historic production of 1.5Mozs gold and 1.0Mozs platinum. The Company's Gachala Copper Project, is located 60 km east of Bogota. The Company is led by a seasoned management team with a track record of significant discovery and exploration success. Source: R.J. Fletcher and Associates (2011) Review of Gold and Platinum Exploration and Production in Choco Province Colombia Part 3. Private Report for Condoto Platinum Ltd.) Max cautions investors it has yet to verify the Choco Gold and Platinum Project historic information. Tim Henneberry, PGeo (British Columbia), a member of the Max Resource advisory board, is the qualified person who has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release on behalf of the company. For more information visit: https://www.maxresource.com/ For additional information contact: Max Resource Corp. Tim McNulty E: info@maxresource.com T: (604) 290-8100 For Max Resource's French inquiries: Remy Scalabrini, Maricom Inc. E: rs@maricom.ca T: (888) 585-MARI 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 Except for statements of historic fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is 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. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the TSXV. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the commercialization plans for Max Resources Corp. described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44623 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Megastar Development Corp. ("Megastar", or the "Company") (TSX-V: MDV; Frankfurt: M5QN), an early stage mineral exploration company focused on its recently optioned properties in Oaxaca, Mexico, is pleased to announce that it has closed on a financing in the amount of $672,600 by way of non-brokered private placement. Under the terms of the placement, Megastar has issued 11,210,000 units at a price of $0.06 per unit. Each unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and one non-transferable share purchase warrant. Each warrant will allow the holder the ability to purchase an additional common share of the Company at a price of $0.10. The warrants are good for a period of 24 months, however, should the common shares close at or above $0.20 for a period of 10 consecutive days, the Company may accelerate the expiry date of the warrants to 30 days from such notice. The proceeds of the financing will be used to advance exploration on multiple properties within the Oaxaca, Mexico Au-Ag belt as optioned from Minera Zalamera S.A. de C.V. in an agreement reached in August of 2018 (see press release dated August 9, 2018). Mr. David M. Jones, President of Minera Zalamera and member of the board of directors of Megastar, has 40 years experience in mineral exploration and a very successful track record in Mexico, which includes the discovery of the Los Filos deposit (Leah Gold ) and, most recently, the targeting that directly led to discovery of Gold Resource Corp.'s Switchback Mine. Exploration is focussed on high-grade Au-Ag deposits similar to those of Fortuna Silver's ("FVI" on TSE) San Jose mine, and Gold Resource Corp's ("GORO" on NYSE) Arist-Switchback and Alta Gracia mines. "With working capital now in place, we are very excited about the prospects of advancing preliminary work done on these properties," said Dusan Berka, Megastar's CEO. "David recently returned from Mexico where he deployed a team of Oaxaca-savvy geologists with the goal of efficiently generating exploration targets for drill testing. Oaxaca has shown itself to be an area of interest and, producing mines such as Fortuna Silver's San Jose mine and Gold Resources' Switchback mine are examples of the potential in the region." Mr. Berka concludes: "On behalf of the Board of Directors and the Management, I'd like to express our sincere thanks to all our loyal shareholders and investors for their patience and continued support.'' Story continues As part of the financing, insiders participated for $66,000 and included all members of the Board. In connection with the closing, Megastar paid finder's fees of $33,600 and issued 560,000 non-transferable broker warrants. Each broker warrant entitles the holder to acquire one common share of Megastar at an exercise price of $0.06 for a period of 24 months from closing. The securities issued under the offering will be subject to a four-month and one-day hold period expiring on September 8, 2019. The offering remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. ABOUT MEGASTAR DEVELOPMENT CORP. Megastar Development Corp. is an emerging resource company engaged in the evaluation, acquisition and exploration of mineral properties in Canada and Mexico. Megastar has an Option to acquire 100% interest in three epithermal Au-Ag mineral properties in Oaxaca, Mexico. Megastar also owns 100% interest in Ralleau mineral property in Urban Barry District, Lebel-Sur-Quevilion area of Quebec, currently under 50% Option to DeepRock Minerals Exploration Inc. For further information, investors and shareholders are invited to visit the Company's website at www.megastardevelopment.com or call the office at 604-681-1568, or toll free at 1-877-377-6222. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS "DUSAN BERKA" Dusan Berka, P. Eng. President & CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Forward Looking Statements: Statements included in this announcement, including statements concerning our plans, intentions and expectations, which are not historical in nature are intended to be, and are hereby identified as, "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements may be identified by words including "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "expects" and similar expressions. The Company cautions readers that forward-looking statements, including without limitation those relating to the Company's future operations and business prospects, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. SOURCE: Megastar Development Corp. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/544607/Megastar-Development-Closes-672600-Financing CHANDLER, Ariz., May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (MCHP) Microchip Technology Incorporated, a leading semiconductor supplier of smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions, today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend on its common stock of 36.55 cents per share. The dividend is payable on June 4, 2019 to stockholders of record on May 21, 2019. Microchip initiated quarterly cash dividend payments in the third quarter of fiscal year 2003 and has increased its dividend 59 times since its inception. Microchips financial results in the March 2019 quarter were above the midpoint of our guidance, in spite of a challenging economic backdrop, and produced $403.4 million of cash flows from operations, said Steve Sanghi, Chief Executive Officer. Our Board of Directors is pleased to declare an increase in our quarterly dividend to a record 36.55 cents per share, which continues to reflect our ongoing commitment to return value to our stockholders. Cautionary Statement: The statement contained in this release relating to our ongoing commitment to returning value to our stockholders is a forward-looking statement made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This statement involves risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including, but not limited to: actual cash flows generated from and used in the operation of our business; actual or projected levels of capital expenditures; our balance of cash and investments; changes in the tax rates that our stockholders pay on our dividends or other changes in U.S. tax laws including the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017; our available borrowings under our credit agreement; the impact of any significant acquisitions we may make (including our acquisition of Microsemi Corporation); our ability to realize the expected benefits of our acquisitions (including our acquisition of Microsemi), changes in demand or market acceptance of our products and the products of our customers; the mix of inventory we hold and our ability to satisfy short- term orders from our inventory; changes in utilization of our manufacturing capacity and our ability to effectively manage our production levels; our ability to control the level of operating expenses relative to our level of revenues; competitive developments including pricing pressures; the level of orders that are received and can be shipped in a quarter; changes or fluctuations in customer order patterns and seasonality; the costs and outcome of any current or future litigation or other matters involving our Microsemi acquisition, the Microsemi business, intellectual property, customers, or other issues; the costs and outcome of any current or future tax audit or investigation regarding our business or the business of Microsemi; disruptions in our business or the businesses of our customers or suppliers due to natural disasters (including any floods in Thailand), terrorist activity, armed conflict, war, worldwide oil prices and supply, public health concerns or disruptions in the transportation system; and general economic, industry or political conditions in the United States or internationally. Story continues For a detailed discussion of these and other risk factors, please refer to Microchip's filings on Forms 10-K and 10-Q. You can obtain copies of Forms 10-K and 10-Q and other relevant documents for free at Microchips website ( www.microchip.com ) or the SEC's website ( www.sec.gov ) or from commercial document retrieval services. Stockholders of Microchip are cautioned not to place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date such statements are made. Microchip does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect events, circumstances or new information after this May 7, 2019 press release, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. About Microchip: Microchip Technology Incorporated is a leading semiconductor supplier of smart, connected and secure embedded control solutions, providing low-risk product development, lower total system cost and faster time to market for thousands of diverse customer applications worldwide. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at www.microchip.com . The Microchip logo and name are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated. INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT: J. Eric Bjornholt, CFO (480) 792-7804 To access a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here http://share.thomsonreuters.com/assets/newsletters/Morning_News_Call/MNCGeneric_CA_05082019.pdf You can read Morning News Call Canada via TOPNEWS Canada page. If you would like to receive this newsletter through your email, please register at: http://solutions.refinitiv.com/MorningNewsCallENsubscriptionpage ECONOMIC EVENTS 0815 (approx.) House Starts, Annualized for Apr: Expected 196,400; Prior 192,500 1100 TR IPSOS PCSI for May: Prior 50.76 COMPANIES REPORTING RESULTS May 8: Boralex Inc (BLX). Expected Q1 earnings of 26 Canadian cents per share Finning International Inc (FTT). Expected Q1 earnings of 30 Canadian cents per share Franco-Nevada Corp (FNV). Expected Q1 earnings of 28 cents per share Home Capital Group Inc (HCG). Expected Q1 earnings of 48 Canadian cents per share Sun Life Financial Inc (SLF). Expected Q1 earnings of C$1.21 per share Thomson Reuters Corp (TRI). Expected Q1 earnings of 25 cents per share Wheaton Precious Metals Corp (WPM). Expected Q1 earnings of 12 cents per share May 9: Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp (AQN). Expected Q1 earnings of 21 cents per share Brookfield Asset Management Inc (BAMa). Expected Q1 earnings of 11 cents per share Canadian Natural Resources Ltd (CNQ). Expected Q1 earnings of 54 Canadian cents per share Canadian Tire Corporation Ltd (CTCa). Expected Q1 earnings of C$1.38 per share CI Financial Corp (CIX). Expected Q1 earnings of 56 Canadian cents per share Cineplex Inc (CGX). Expected Q1 earnings of 00 Canadian cents per share Crescent Point Energy Corp (CPG). Expected Q1 earnings of 10 Canadian cents per share Equitable Group Inc (EQB). Expected Q1 earnings of C$2.73 per share Hydro One Ltd (H). Expected Q1 earnings of 41 Canadian cents per share Industrial Alliance Insurance and Financial Services Inc (IAG). Expected Q1 earnings of C$1.36 per share Inter Pipeline Ltd (IPL). Expected Q1 earnings of 33 Canadian cents per share Magna International Inc (MG). Expected Q1 earnings of $1.71 per share Quebecor Inc (QBRb). Expected Q1 earnings of 44 Canadian cents per share Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Inc (RBA). Expected Q1 earnings of 19 cents per share Stantec Inc (STN). Expected Q1 earnings of 44 Canadian cents per share Telus Corp (T). Expected Q1 earnings of 75 Canadian cents per share TMX Group Ltd (X). Expected Q1 earnings of C$1.23 per share CORPORATE EVENTS 0800 Element Fleet Management Corp (EFN). Q1 earnings conference call 0800 Home Capital Group Inc (HCG). Q1 earnings conference call 0800 Kirkland Lake Gold Ltd (KL). Q1 earnings conference call 0830 Exchange Income Corp (EIF). Q1 earnings conference call 0830 Thomson Reuters Corp (TRI). Q1 earnings conference call 0900 Boralex Inc (BLX). Q1 earnings conference call 0900 Freehold Royalties Ltd (FRU). Q1 earnings conference call 0900 Russel Metals Inc (RUS). Q1 earnings conference call 0900 Torex Gold Resources Inc (TXG). Q1 earnings conference call 1000 Chorus Aviation Inc (CHR). Q1 earnings conference call 1000 Element Fleet Management Corp (EFN). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1000 Intact Financial Corp (IFC). Q1 earnings conference call 1000 Kinross Gold Corp (K). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1000 Semafo Inc (SMF). Q1 earnings conference call 1000 Tricon Capital Group Inc (TCN). Q1 earnings conference call 1100 Barrick Gold Corp (ABX). Q1 earnings conference call 1100 Boralex Inc (BLX). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1100 Finning International Inc (FTT). Q1 earnings conference call 1100 Peyto Exploration & Development Corp (PEY). Q1 earnings conference call 1130 Ero Copper Corp (ERO). Q1 earnings conference call 1130 Intact Financial Corp (IFC). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1130 Sandstorm Gold Ltd (SSL). Q1 earnings conference call 1200 Canadian Utilities Ltd (CU). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1230 Paramount Resources Ltd (POU). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1300 B2Gold Corp (BTO). Q1 earnings conference call 1330 Chorus Aviation Inc (CHR). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1400 First Capital Realty Inc (FCR). Q1 earnings conference call 1530 Enbridge Inc (ENB). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1600 Franco-Nevada Corp (FNV). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1600 TORC Oil & Gas Ltd (TOG). Annual Shareholders Meeting 1700 Altus Group Ltd (AIF). Q1 earnings conference call 1730 ECN Capital Corp (ECN). Q1 earnings conference call EX-DIVIDENDS Canadian Utilities Ltd (CU). Amount C$0.42 For Morning News Call U.S. -- a preview of market-moving news for the trading day: - type US/MNC in a news browser if you are an Eikon user, or type RT/US/MNC in a news browser if you are a Thomson One user For The Day Ahead -- a recap of the day's events and preview of the next trading day: - type DAY/US in a news browser if you are an Eikon user or type RT/DAY/US in a news browser if you are a Thomson One user For an index of our newsletters click on Nabors Industries Ltd. NBR reported first-quarter 2019 adjusted loss from continuing operations of 36 cents per share, wider than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 25 cents, primarily due to weak performance of the international drilling segment. However, the loss was narrower than the year-ago adjusted loss of 46 cents per share, mainly on the back of stronger y/y contribution from its U.S. Drilling and Drilling Solutions segment. Quarterly revenues of $809.3 million beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $774 million. Moreover, the top line was higher than the year-ago level of $734.6 million, attributable to robust y/y performance of the U.S. Drilling segment. Notably, during the quarter, the company operated an average of 120.9 rigs in the United States compared with 111.8 in the year-ago period. Nabors Industries Ltd. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise Nabors Industries Ltd. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise | Nabors Industries Ltd. Quote Segmental Performance Nabors U.S. Drilling segment generated quarterly operating revenues of $320.2 million, up 33% from the year-ago level of $241 million. The segment recorded an operating income of $24 million, reflecting a significant turnaround from $19.7 million loss a year ago. This was mainly driven by an improvement in drilling performance in the Lower 48 and Alaska. Pricing and margin improvements buoyed the results. The average rig count in the Lower 48 increased to 115 in the quarter under review. Moreover, the company expects the count to reach 120 by the end of this year. Canadian Drilling segment revenues came in at $25.3 million in the quarter under review, down from the year-ago figure of $31.8 million amid weak market environment and lower y/y rig count. Nonetheless, the segments operating loss narrowed to $59,000 from $592,000 in the corresponding quarter of 2018. International Drilling segments operations attributed to revenues of $337.3 million, which decreased from the year-ago quarters $368.8 million. The segment incurred an operating loss of $5.6 million in the quarter under review vis-a-vis income of $24.5 million in the prior-year period. Operational challenges in Latin America and Middle East impacted the bottom line. Reduced day rates, and idled rigs in Argentina and Venezuela dented the results. Notably, rig count in the segment declined to 89.7 from 94.6 in first-quarter 2018. Story continues Revenues from the Drilling Solutions segment increased to $65.4 million in first-quarter 2019 from $62.6 million recorded in the year-ago period. The units operating income of $8.7 million in the year-ago period improved to $12.8 million in the quarter under review. This can be attributed to integration benefits from the recently acquired PetroMar business and higher y/y activities across most of its segments product lines. Revenues from the Rig Technologies segment increased to $71.7 million from the prior-year level of $64.6 million. The segments loss narrowed to $5.1 million from the prior-year loss of $13 million. The segments results were positively impacted by improved contribution from the core Canrig business. Financials Total costs and expenses increased to $882.9 million from $854.7 million in the year-ago quarter, primarily on the back of increased direct costs. The companys capital expenditure was $146 million in the quarter under review. As of Mar 31, the company had $469.7 million in cash and short-term investments, and $3,677.6 million in long-term debt, with a debt-to-capitalization ratio of approximately 58.1%. Guidance & Outlook In the U.S. drilling segment, rig count in the Lower 48 region is expected to increase by three-four rigs in second-quarter 2019. The region is expected to benefit from improving dayrates and margins. Rig count in Alaska is expected to decline in the quarter amid seasonality factors. The company expects rig count in the international segment to remain flat and uncertain market conditions in Venezuela to prevail. However, improved operational performance and cost control in Latin America are likely to improve the segments results in second-quarter 2019. Nabors expects EBITDA from the International unit to exceed $90 million in second-quarter 2019 compared with $85.8 million in the first quarter. The Canadian segment is likely to bear the brunt of market weakness and tough operating environment in the second quarter as well EBITDA from the Drilling Solutions segment is expected to improve sequentially in the second quarter. The segment is anticipated to keep up the momentum, with an annual run rate of $125 million in fourth-quarter 2019. While EBITDA from the Rig Technologies unit is likely to record a modest improvement sequentially, the segment will see an uptick in revenues from rig automation projects in robotics operation in the latter half of the year. Second-quarter capital spending is expected to reduce to $100 million, with full-year capex projected at around $400 million. Interest and dividend payouts are expected to decline by about $100 million in the second quarter. The company remains focused to reduce debt by $200-$250 million within the end of the year and by $600-$700 million through 2020. Zacks Rank & Key Picks Nabors carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Meanwhile, investors interested in the energy space can consider some better-ranked players such as: Devon Energy Corporation DVN: Devons 2019 earnings are expected to grow 63.6% on a year-over-year basis. Murphy Oil Corporation MUR: Murphy surpassed earnings estimates in three out of the trailing four quarters, with average positive surprise of 17.33%. The companys 2019 earnings are expected to grow 12.7%. Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc. BCEI: The company delivered average positive earnings surprise of 14.53% in the trailing four quarters. Bonanza Creeks 2019 earnings are expected to grow 23.1% y/y. Radical New Technology Creates $12.3 Trillion Opportunity Imagine buying Microsoft stock in the early days of personal computers or Motorola after it released the worlds first cell phone. These technologies changed our lives and created massive profits for investors. Today, were on the brink of the next quantum leap in technology. 7 innovative companies are leading this 4th Industrial Revolution - and early investors stand to earn the biggest profits. See the 7 breakthrough stocks now>> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Nabors Industries Ltd. (NBR) : Free Stock Analysis Report Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc. (BCEI) : Free Stock Analysis Report Devon Energy Corporation (DVN) : Free Stock Analysis Report Murphy Oil Corporation (MUR) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research By Devika Krishna Kumar NEW YORK (Reuters) - Oil prices edged higher on Monday, as the market attempted to resume a weeks-long rally that was halted on Friday when U.S. President Donald Trump demanded that producer club OPEC raise output to soften the impact of U.S. sanctions against Iran. Brent crude futures fell 11 cents, or 0.2 percent, to settle at $72.04 a barrel while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures climbed 20 cents, or 0.3 percent, to end the session at $63.50. Both benchmarks fell by about 3 percent on Friday after Trump told reporters that he had called OPEC and told the cartel to lower oil prices, without identifying who he spoke to, or if he was speaking about previous discussions with OPEC officials. Analysts and market participants downplayed the comments as details were unclear. "No representative of OPEC or the Saudi government has come forward to acknowledge any discussion in this regard," said Jim Ritterbusch, president of Ritterbusch and Associates. "This obvious effort to push gasoline prices down has been attempted previously by Trump and while forcing an initial price decline, such pullbacks have been followed by fresh price highs, sometimes within a matter of days." Trump's remarks initially triggered a sell-off, putting a temporary ceiling on a 40 percent price rally since the start of the year. The slide was exacerbated by technical factors including an excessive speculative long position in U.S. crude, analysts said. Speculators raised their combined futures and options net long positions in New York and London by 24,078 contracts to 326,818 during the week to April 23, the highest level since early October. That was the ninth consecutive increase. (Graphic: Brent crude oil prices link: https://tmsnrt.rs/2XWLBqT). The rally in oil prices had gained momentum in April after Trump tightened sanctions against Iran by ending all exemptions previously granted to that major buyers. Story continues U.S. sanctions against Iran's oil industry will damage the stability of global oil markets, a senior Iranian official was quoted as saying on Monday. "These sanctions are an example of America's bullying reaction to the change of the balance of power in the world," Amir Hossein Zamaninia, a deputy oil minister for Iran, said in a report carried by the oil ministry's news website SHANA. U.S. sanctions on Venezuela are also working to tighten global supply as fighting in Libya threatens to curb output there as well. Oil output in OPEC member Libya has been repeatedly disrupted by factional conflict and blockades since the 2011 uprising that toppled dictator Muammar Gaddafi. "We are dealing with a market that's not actually short of supply but is short due to politically-motivated action, and we know how quickly that can be turned around if necessary," Saxo Bank analyst Ole Hansen told Reuters. "Being a bear in the market is a very lonely place now." Traders said the market was shifting focus to the voluntary supply cuts led by OPEC, the de facto head of which is the world's top oil exporter, Saudi Arabia. "We are of the view that Saudi Arabia will increase output as soon as May, something they were likely to do anyway in the lead up to summer," ING bank said. It added that Saudi could increase its output and "still be in compliance with the OPEC+ deal for the month of May." "We believe that the (fall in prices) is probably due to the situation on the futures market being currently overbought," Commerzbank wrote in a note. "Consequently, even small levels of uncertainty can spark a more marked price response. However, because the supply situation remains tight a renewed price rise is probable." (Additional reporting by Noah Browning in LONDON and Henning Gloystein in SINGAPORE; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Lisa Shumaker) Six weeks is nowhere near enough time. Six weeks is plenty of time. In Albany, supporters of legalizing adult-use marijuana said this week theyre all-in for passing a sweeping law by June 19th, when this years legislative session ends. But its far from clear that objections from different camps can be overcome. No state has done this legislativelyzero, zip, said Senator Diane Savino, a Democratic representing Staten Island. It has all been done through public referendum. Theres a reason for that. The people are always ahead of the politicians. She bemoaned not pushing the complicated legislative package through the budget process, which concluded on April 1st. It might have bypassed concerns about everything from law enforcement to social equity, and shielded lawmakers from displeased constituents. Savino said the pockets of opposition to legalization were persistent, and vocal. The [legislators] who are concerned about law enforcement and kids getting drugsits not going to change for them. The people who think the legislation thats been proposed doesnt do enough to address diversity in the industryits not going to change for them, Savino said. But those are exactly the kind of details that negotiators said theyre hashing out in the hope of reaching a deal next month. I think weve made tremendous progress, said Senator Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan), the bill's sponsor in the senate. She said theyve addressed specific legislators misgivings with initiativesfor law enforcement, educational programming and entrepreneurial assistance for minority communitiesplus budget dollars to back them up. Theres no guarantee we can do it this year, but Im going to try, she said, adding that the revised bill, which now includes a slate of proposals from Governor Andrew Cuomo, would probably be released next week. Krueger said she believed she can get the votes but needs Cuomos help. It will require, absolutely, the governors strong support and willingness to use political capital to get this done, she said. It has to be a three-way effort. After Albany reached a budget deal without marijuana legalization, Cuomo insisted in an interview on WAMC in April that "we will get marijuana done. Its not a question of political desire. Its a question of practical reality of how you put the new system in place, which... is not easy. You still need to control and regulate. You dont want 14 year-olds having access to marijuana. So how you do it is, frankly, the tougher part of the equation. In the rush of the budget, we couldnt do it intelligently." Asked about the current status of marijuana legalization on Wednesday, Rich Azzopardi, a senior advisor to Cuomo, said the governor remains committed. The governor has made clear its an end-of-session priority and one of the few issues we didnt get [into] the budget that we want to make sure is enacted before the legislative session is concluded, Azzopardi said. We think the proposals are more alike than different, and that everyones working in a good-faith effort to get it done. Elzora Cleveland and other activists with Mothers for Marijuana Justice in Albany on Tuesday. (Fred Mogul / Gothamist / WNYC) On Tuesday, a dozen people associated with the group Mothers for Marijuana Justice converged on the Capitol to urge passage of the bills. We need to regulate marijuana this legislative session, said Kassandra Frederique, from the Drug Policy Alliance. There is no sense of urgency around it, and we are here with this collective of moms, on the eve of Mothers Day, asking for a Mothers Day wish to regulate marijuana this year, in this session, she said, speaking at a small rally outside the legislature before the group spread out to meet with individual lawmakers. Democrats have strong majorities in both the Assembly and Senate, but internal divisions (similar to those in New Jersey) have slowed legalization efforts. Opponents, including parent-teacher associations and police unions, have organized phone-call and letter-writing campaigns hoping to persuade lawmakersespecially ones representing more conservative suburban districtsthat legalizing pot would be bad for public safety and health. Ive been getting calls from the schools and the PTAs and law enforcement with concerns, said Senator Jim Gaughran (D-Northport). They say theyre already having enough problems with the flavored [nicotine] vaping, and this is the last thing they need. But Gaughran, like several other lawmakers, said he would wait to see what the amended proposal looked like before deciding how to vote. Another suburban freshman, Senator Pete Harckham (D-South Salem), said hes confident that investments in law enforcement and education would help him allay constituents concerns. Those are the kinds of things we would need to see in a bill to win over suburban Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties, he said. Some constituents would like to see no progress [toward legalization], but what Im trying to do is manage something I think may be inevitable. But Senator Savino now says shes doubtful of the gaps being closed politically on issues like criminal justice, economic access and public safety, so shes changed her focus. She and Assemblyman Richard Gottfried (D-Manhattan) co-sponsored the original medical marijuana bill in 2014, and they want to repair its shortcomings. That law was so restrictive that relatively few patients have been able to get cannabis. The costs are high, insurance doesnt cover it, not many medical providers are certified to prescribe it, the list of eligible conditions is short, and the list of licensed dispensaries is even shorter. A new bill theyre sponsoring would dramatically expand the number of dispensaries, eligible medical providers and appropriate medical conditions. I still fully support adult-use marijuana for all adults, she said. "This wouldn't be that, but it would be a good step in that direction." Fred Mogul is the Albany and politics reporter for WNYC. You can follow him on Twitter @fredmogul. Upstream Data In a handful of oil fields in the Great White North, natural gas, an otherwise wasted drilling by-product, is being put to work. But its not being used to well more oil; its being used to mine bitcoin. Bitcoins a great arbitrage mechanism for these companies. Anywhere you go, oil and gas producers are having issues, Steve Barbour, founder of Canadian company Upstream Data, told Bitcoin Magazine. Upstream Datas ohmm mining skids, as they are called, help these companies transform these issues into monetary solutions. By taking otherwise idle natural gas and using it to mine bitcoin, this modern day alchemy is more than just an arbitrage mechanism or an alternate stream of revenue for these oil companies; in Barbours native Canada, it allows them to stay regulatory compliant, while also reducing the environmental impact their operations would normally produce. From Waste to Work Stranded gas an industry term for the natural gas by-product that oil drilling produces but which cant be used accounts for somewhere between 40-60 percent of all the worlds proven gas reserves. In the United States alone in 2013, oil companies vented (released directly into the air) or flared (burned off) some 122 billion cubic feet of stranded natural gas. Thats enough to power every home in Chicago for an entire year. This gas is not wasted wantonly; rather, there is simply a lack of utility for it and solutions to harness it. Some companies use the by-product to power equipment or heat up oil to make it less viscous, Barbour says. But theres so much of it that companies are left with a surplus, and while some have methods to transport it (or turn it into power for commercial use), others dont. Its stranded. Theres no way to get it to the market; theres no pipeline and theres no powerline. Theres no demand for it. So what we normally do is producers will use as much gas for operations on site. The rest gets vented straight out of the pipe. Story continues For Canadian oil companies, transporting is particularly tricky because the nature of the oil is its very thick and viscous. In the province of Alberta, Barbours backyard, most of the companies dont even have pipelines, the oil being so thick that you cant pump it. As a result, no money goes into managing the natural gas by-product; its cheaper just to vent it off. An oil industry veteran of 10 years, Barbour knows these problems well, but it wasnt until he learned about bitcoin that he realized this unwanted excess could be managed in a less environmentally hazardous and even lucrative fashion. I came up with the idea in June of 2016, pretty much when I learned about bitcoin. It sorta just blew my mind I couldnt believe it. His solution is simple: Instead of exhausting the gas on site (or fumbling with the sunken cost of transporting it), companies can use it to power bitcoin mining rigs. All thats required is a generator and an ohmm mining skid. Upstream Data provides the mining hardware, shelter for the rigs and the generator set, unless the oil company has a natural gas generator on site already. The company advertises custom rigs to suit each companys needs, offering engines that produce from 45 kWh to as much as 1,200 kWh of power. For those clients who purchase their own skids, this could mean up to $0.10 CAD per kWH, which translates to roughly $150 a day for a 45 kWh engine. Conservation as a Service Upstream Service offers clients three different mining packages. As detailed above, one involves buying the mining rig, supplying the gas and converting this gas into power, and the producers get to keep all the mining profits. With option two, they only provide the gas and power conversion without buying the skid, and Upstream Data keeps a slice of the profits. Then theres the third option. Upstream Data parks the skid on site and converts the gas to energy for them, offering the conversion for free in exchange for free gas. This might sound odd to hear that the companies are willing to supply the gas without any promise of mining rewards in return, but as Barbour told us, the payoff is getting rid of the by-product without having to pay for combustion and staying compliant with regulations. Black Pearl Resources in Calgary, Alberta, is one company taking advantage of the service, and Barbour said that theyre more than willing to offer up free fuel to Upstream Data since it means one less operational headache to deal with. They are happy with that because the energy is a liability to them. Theyre not making any money off of it anyway, and they have financial burdens related to it. Some of these companies are strapped for cash, so rather than invest what capital they do have in a full skid (theyd rather just scout for and dig more wells) it makes sense for them to leverage Upstream Datas free service. This way, they dont have to sink capital and resources into disposing of the gas, and they can offload responsibility onto Barbours company. I call it conservation as a service in trade with them, we take all the risk but also reap all of the benefits. Defying Expectations Barbour founded Upstream Data in 2017, bootstrapping it out of pocket without any outside investment. Its growth has been slow but steady. To date, Upstream Data has provided services to half a dozen clients. With each new client a testament to the proof of concept, Barbour emphasized that its getting easier to convince companies to take a chance with the novel solution that has no precedent. Being the first is difficult because people have trouble joining you being the first. Its still difficult now getting a sale and selling the skid. It is getting easier, but its still difficult. So the first two years were really about the company getting its bearings and improving its product rather than exhausting itself with rapid or unrealistic expansion. And this strategy has largely paid off, Barbour said, as an optimized product and really good prices have led to increased interest that even spans outside of Canadian borders. Making the move down South, Barbour told us that Upstream Data is trialing a fleet of smaller skids with an oil company in Texas. Barbour believes ohmm skids could unlock a boon of revenue for Texas companies who are having trouble monetizing natural gas by-products amidst drooping prices. Their pipelines wont pay out, he puts it plainly, so the ohmm solution could be an attractive means to generate alternate income to ballast revenue streams. In the grand scheme, Barbour sees Upstream Datas model as a unique opportunity for these companies to recoup sunken investments, not just in by-products like natural gas, but in defunct oil fields themselves. These orphaned wells, as he called them, are the bastard children of bankruptcies and related mismanagement. Whereas typical protocol is to plug and cap these wells and cut losses, Barbour sees them as an opportunity to set some data centers on these oil fields and make them profitable again. At the core of Upstream Datas modus operandi is finding cheap, otherwise wasted energy and milking it for otherwise unrealized profit. The Bitcoin maximalist maxim that proof of work encourages users to unlock otherwise untapped energy and find creative, efficient fuel sources to feed mining rigs comes to mind here. Barbour stressed that this is important to consider when discussing Bitcoins environmental impact. Critics can ignore the fact that mining rigs more often than not use renewable energy like hydro, wind and solar anything less efficient and the operators would struggle to break even. In Upstream Datas case, while natural gas is still being burned, the companys website points out that venting pure gas has approximately 25x more global warming potential than carbon dioxide. So its actually more environmentally ethical for oil companies to employ the ohmm method. And to Barbour, it makes more sense financially, while also showing that theyre more nuance to Bitcoins energy use than critics recognize. I think were a pretty good example for why the energy waste argument is a load of crap. Bitcoin mining by nature of free competition is the most competitive market on the planet. Everyone is looking for low value energy, which happens to correlate to waste, so wasted energy is pretty much guaranteed to be profitable. This article originally appeared on Bitcoin Magazine. Nominees bring decades of security software and capital markets experience at leading companies including Twilio, Oracle, J.P. Morgan and Citigroup CHICAGO, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OneSpan Inc. (OSPN), a global leader in software for trusted identities, e-signatures and secure transactions, today announced the nomination of Marc D. Boroditsky and Dr. Marc Zenner to stand for election to the companys board of directors at its 2019 annual meeting of stockholders on June 12, 2019. Mr. Boroditsky is the Senior Vice President of Sales at Twilio Inc. (TWLO), a cloud communications platform-as-a-service company for building SMS, voice and messaging applications using its web service APIs. Dr. Zenner is a former investment banker, managing director and global co-head of Corporate Finance Advisory at J.P. Morgan (JPM). The Board has been active with its refreshment initiatives over the last several years and we expect to significantly benefit from the added expertise and new perspectives that these nominees bring, said OneSpan Board Chair, John N. Fox, Jr. Today's announcement demonstrates the Board's focus on growing our software and cloud-based offerings in our financial services target market. Marc Boroditsky and Dr. Zenner bring a wealth of experience that complements the strengths of our existing board members, said OneSpan CEO, Scott Clements. We expect them to make important contributions to our business strategy, our capital allocation policy, and our acquisition program. Mr. Boroditsky and Dr. Zenner are being nominated at the 2019 annual meeting of stockholders along with the existing six directors, who will stand for re-election. If all nominees are elected, the board will expand to eight directors, including six independent directors. About Marc D. Boroditsky Mr. Boroditsky has been the Senior Vice President of Sales at Twilio Inc. (TWLO) since May 2017 and before that its VP and General Manager of Authentication Solutions from February 2015. Prior to Twilio, Mr. Boroditsky was President and COO of Authy, a software authentication company, from September 2014 until it was acquired by Twilio in February 2015. Prior to Authy, Mr. Boroditsky was VP of Identity and Access Management at Oracle. Story continues Mr. Boroditsky has more than 30 years of experience with technology companies and has founded and financed four software companies in electronic medical records, authentication and identity management. He successfully sold Authy to Twilio and Passlogix to Oracle. About Dr. Marc Zenner Dr. Zenner was an investment banker for 10 years at J.P. Morgan until September 2017. Prior to J.P. Morgan, he was an investment banker for six years at Citigroup. At J.P. Morgan, Dr. Zenner was a Managing Director and Global Co-Head of Corporate Finance Advisory. At Citigroup, he was a Managing Director and Global Head of the Financial Strategy Group. In addition to investment banking, Dr. Zenner had a distinguished career as a professor where he taught undergraduate, MBA and PhD students in finance at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Kenan-Flagler Business School. He received numerous awards for his teaching and is the author of a wealth of academic and business articles. Dr. Zenner is originally from Belgium where he received an undergraduate degree in business engineering from the Katholieke Universiteit in Leuven. He then received an MBA from City University in London, U.K., and a Ph.D. in Financial Economics from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana where he was a Fulbright Scholar. Dr. Zenner currently serves on the board of directors of Sentinel Energy Services (STNL) where he is the Chairman of the Audit Committee and a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Dr. Zenner also provides strategic advice to various public and private companies. About OneSpan OneSpan enables financial institutions and other organizations to succeed by making bold advances in their digital transformation. We do this by establishing trust in peoples identities, the devices they use, and the transactions that shape their lives. We believe that this is the foundation of enhanced business enablement and growth. More than 10,000 customers, including over half of the top 100 global banks, rely on OneSpan solutions to protect their most important relationships and business processes. From digital onboarding to fraud mitigation to workflow management, OneSpans unified, open platform reduces costs, accelerates customer acquisition, and increases customer satisfaction. Learn more about OneSpan at OneSpan.com and on Twitter , LinkedIn and Facebook . Copyright 2019 OneSpan North America Inc., all rights reserved. OneSpan is a registered or unregistered trademark of OneSpan North America Inc. or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. Investor contact: Joe Maxa Director of Investor Relations M: +1-612-247-8592 O: +1-312-766-4009 joe.maxa@onespan.com Important Additional Information OneSpan, its directors and certain of its officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from OneSpans shareholders in connection with OneSpans 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Information regarding the names of OneSpans directors and executive officers is set forth in OneSpans proxy statement for the 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) on April 26, 2019. Other information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is contained in the 2019 proxy statement and other related materials (if any) in connection with the 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Additional information about OneSpan, our 2018 results, risk factors and other information can be found in OneSpans annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 filed with the SEC on March 15, 2019. ONESPAN SHAREHOLDERS AND OTHER INVESTORS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE 2019 PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS) AND PROXY CARD AND SUCH OTHER RELATED MATERIALS AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. These documents, including any proxy statement (and amendments or supplements thereto) and other related materials filed by OneSpan with the SEC, are available for no charge at the SECs website at www.sec.gov and at OneSpans website at investors.onespan.com. Copies may also be obtained by contacting OneSpan by mail at 121 West Wacker Drive, 20th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601, Attention: Corporate Secretary or by telephone at 312-766-4001. Forward Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements, made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to: our business activities; our strategy, products and plans; the potential of our business; capital allocation and investment strategy; the potential election of our Director nominees to the OneSpan Board of Directors; the potential expansion of the OneSpan Board of Directors at the 2019 annual meeting of stockholders; and the expected benefits from the potential election to the OneSpan Board of Directors of our Director nominees. These forward-looking statements may be accompanied by words such as aim, anticipate, believe, could, estimate, except, forecast, intend, may, plan, potential, possible, will, would and other words and terms of similar meaning. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in such statements. Factors that could materially affect our business and financial results include, but are not limited to, market acceptance of our products and solutions and competitors offerings, the potential effects of technological changes, and the increasing frequency and sophistication of hacking attacks, as well as those factors set forth in our Form 10-K (and other forms) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our SEC filings and other important information can be found on the Investor Relations section of our website at investors.onespan.com. We do not have any intent, and disclaim any obligation, to update the forward-looking information to reflect events that occur, circumstances that exist, or changes in our expectations after the date of this press release. Source: OneSpan Inc. Real-time data to improve electricity distribution for New York's Village of Sherburne BROOKLYN, N.Y., May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Opus One Solutions, Booz Allen Hamilton , and Sherburne Municipal Electric announced today that together they will be working to enhance the electricity distribution for New Yorks Village of Sherburne. The implementation of a new electrical distribution control software system based on Opus Ones GridOS platform is expected to improve the operation of the electricity distribution system and create cost-savings for Sherburnes ratepayers. "Grid modernization is a fundamental challenge for communities in the United States and around the world," says Mayor William Acee. "The Village of Sherburne has a clear outline to provide their citizens with efficient and modern power solutions in the years to come." The joint project is supported by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). The GridOS platform will help the Village improve its hosting capacity by integrating traditional capacity planning with potential future distributed energy resources (DERs) and help optimize its investments by enhancing the use of the grids resources. The enhancements will allow for situation awareness and control by providing a user-friendly interface that allows Sherburne Electric to monitor the status of the grid in real-time, enabling greater stability of the Villages grid, fewer outages and minimization of operating and maintenance costs. This will be done using GridOS power flow analytics and distribution state estimation. We are very pleased to be working with such a great innovative, group of partners to bring this project to market, said Joshua Wong, CEO of Opus One Solutions. It's very exciting to see how our solutions improve operational effectiveness of today's grids and the modern grids of the future for utility and customer benefit. The collaboration between Sherburne, Booz Allen Hamilton and Opus One will make it possible to assess various business case deployment strategies for grid edge software. Opus Ones GridOS platform will assess how each party receives value through system optimization, providing the potential for similar strategies in the future for other areas in New York and beyond. Story continues About Opus One Opus One Solutions is a software engineering and solutions company with the vision of a distributed energy network. Opus Ones intelligent energy networking platform, GridOS, optimizes complex power flows so that it can deliver real-time energy management and integrated planning to distribution utilities and other managers of distributed energy assets. GridOS is modular, scalable, and integrates seamlessly with existing data systems to unlock greater potential for distributed energy resources, including renewable generation, energy storage, and responsive demand. GridOS also facilitates the management of microgrids from homes to businesses to communities for unparalleled grid resiliency and value to the electricity customer. www.opusonesolutions.com About Booz Allen For more than 100 years, business, government, 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 thattogetherwe 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 25,300 people globally, and had revenue of $6.17 billion for the 12 months ended March 31, 2018. To learn more, visit www.boozallen.com. (BAH) About Sherburne Electric Sherburne is a small village in Chenango County, NY with a population of 1,353 residents. Unlike much of New York, the Villages electricity distribution system is municipally owned and operated. Sherburne Electric has also already installed Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters in its coverage area, deployed an effective demand response program, and achieved significant energy reductions through its ratepayer funded energy efficiency (EE) program. https://www.sherburne.org/electric/ Media Contact: Andrea Coelho Marketing & Communications Manager acoelho@opusonesolutions.com (Bloomberg) -- Cloud computing is coming to the West Bank. Palestine Telecommunications Co. has built a $10 million data center in Ramallah to position the Palestinian Authority as a networking bridge from the Middle East to Europe. The hub opens later this year offering co-location, cloud-based disaster recovery, back office and other services. PalTel has sold all of the capacity to Palestinian banks and institutions and already has plans to expand, Chief Executive Officer Ammar Aker said by phone. The territorys biggest phone company has suffered from declining sales in recent years due to competition from Wataniya Palestine Mobile Telecommunications Public Shareholding Co. and Israeli operators offering faster data service at lower prices. While the data hub is a first for PalTel, Aker said he was in talks with major multinational businesses interested in using the site. Return on investment will be immediate, Aker said. More worrying to Aker are the finances of the Palestinian Authority, which has been hit by a U.S. decision to cut aid and a tax dispute with Israel. He said the local government owes PalTel $60 million but the company, the territorys largest employer, may never see the money. The financial situation of the Palestinian Authority is frightening for anyone doing business in Palestine, said the executive, who has worked for PalTel for two decades. You have to deal with challenges of a different shape every day and hope things on the ground will improve. To contact the reporters on this story: Gwen Ackerman in Jerusalem at gackerman@bloomberg.net;Fadwa Hodali in Ramallah at fhodali@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Riad Hamade at rhamade@bloomberg.net, Michael S. Arnold, Thomas Pfeiffer For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. French economy minister Bruno Le Maire has backed Paris Blockchain Week. Photo: Geoffroy Van Der Hasselt/AP The Paris Blockchain Week summit begins on Tuesday, part of a government-backed push to establish France as a global hub for the technology. Paris Blockchain Week is a message we send to [the world]: the [French are] ready to welcome you, to accompany you, to help you develop, Frances digital minister Cedric O tweeted on Monday. While the summit is a private sector initiative set up in part by French advertising giant Havas it has received significant support from the state. The summit aligns with President Emmanuel Macrons ambitions to establish France as a tech hub and both Cedric O and economy and finance minister Bruno Le Maire have come out in support of the event. About 1,500 attendees are expected for the first part of the two-day gathering, where 100 speakers from around the world will discuss everything from how to regulate blockchain to how to invest in it. Blockchain is a broad term for the cryptographic database technology first popularised as the underpinning of bitcoin. The technology enables secure, large-scale open networks, like the bitcoin payment network. Blockchain has sparked huge interest over possible applications elsewhere, from finance to healthcare and even voting. Acolytes believe it can save money by simplifying processes. Everyone from banks to governments to agricultural businesses have invested hundreds of millions of dollar in researching the technology. However, detractors argue blockchain has become a meaningless buzzword. A study last year looked at over 40 blockchain applications in international development and found no evidence the tech made any meaningful difference. Still, Bruno Le Maire, Frances finance minister, told French finance magazine Capital on Monday blockchain is a priority for his government. Over the next five years, the state will invest 4.5bn [3.9bn] in breakthrough innovations, including blockchain technologies, he said. It is an important commitment. The goal is to take a technological lead to be able to fight, French and European, against the Chinese and American technological giants. Story continues Le Maire hosted a special event on Monday at the Ministry of Finance to promote Paris Blockchain Week. Paris has all the means to become a leading country in Europe for blockchain technology, Le Maire tweeted. In his speech at the ministry event he said that the French state would help the construction sector, the energy industry, and agriculture develop blockchain solutions. WILMINGTON, Del., May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WSFS Bank, the primary subsidiary of WSFS Financial Corporation (WSFS), has announced its Retail Regional Management Team that will oversee the Banks larger network of Retail banking offices as a result of its recent combination with Philadelphia-based Beneficial Bank. WSFS will have over 90 Retail banking offices to serve Customers in Delaware, Southern New Jersey, the City of Philadelphia, and throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania following a previously announced initiative to consolidate 25% of the combined WSFS and Beneficial Retail network. Beneficial banking offices and systems will be converted to WSFS Bank in late August 2019, and the majority of the combined consolidations will occur at that time. Leading the team is long-time WSFS Bank Associate and leader, Shari Kruzinski, who has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Director of Retail Delivery. In this role, Ms. Kruzinski will have expanded responsibilities overseeing the Banks eight Retail regions and the Banks two Customer Contact Centers in Center City, Philadelphia and Wilmington. Most recently, Ms. Kruzinski was Senior Vice President and Director of Retail Business Initiatives, a role that included overseeing the Banks Retail regions and implementing successful strategies to increase Customer development and to optimize retail operations. She was integral in the integrations of Penn Liberty Bank, Alliance Bank, and First National Bank of Wyoming into WSFS Bank. Her M&A experience, expertise in Associate engagement and team development, creative thinking, and ability to execute change management plans have been vital throughout the recent combination with Beneficial Bank, which nearly doubled the Banks Retail Associate team. Shari is an accomplished and dedicated leader with a sharp aptitude for managing successful retail banking strategies, said Rick Wright, WSFS Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Banking Officer. We have assembled a phenomenal team to lead our expanded Retail footprint. Story continues Working with Ms. Kruzinski will be eight Regional Managers and a Contact Center Director: Crissy Bowden has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of the Valley Forge Region where she will oversee 12 banking offices in Chester and Montgomery Counties, Pa. Most recently, she was Regional Manager and Market Manager, and began her WSFS career as a Banking Office Manager in Devon, Pa. Ms. Bowden attended Wilson College and Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. She is dedicated to volunteerism within her community through several organizations, including Home of the Sparrow, The Hickman Friends Senior Community of West Chester, and equestrian groups such as the Radnor Race Committee and the Radnor Hunt Horse Trials. Timothy Chretien has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of the Brandywine Valley Region overseeing 12 banking offices in Delaware and Chester Counties, Pa. Mr. Chretien has over 14 years of banking experience. He began his career with WSFS as a Small Business Relationship Manager and was twice named the WSFS Small Business Lender of the Year. He holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Delaware and a bachelors degree from Cornell University. Phil Corradino joins WSFS from Beneficial Bank as Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of the South Jersey Region where he will oversee 11 banking offices in Burlington and Camden Counties, N.J. Mr. Corradino joins WSFS with a vast knowledge of the market and over 18 years of retail leadership experience at Beneficial Bank, and previously Commerce Bank and TD Bank. He is a leader in numerous Burlington County community and business organizations, including the YMCA of Burlington/Camden County where he serves on the Board of Governors; he is the Co-Founder and an executive committee member of Checking for Charity Corp.; and the Rowan College of Burlington County Foundation where he is the finance chair and an executive committee member. Tracy Feinsilver will continue to lead nine banking offices in New Castle County, Del. as Senior Vice President and Regional Manager. Ms. Feinsilver, who has been a WSFS Bank Associate for over 18 years, has held various roles of increasing responsibility within the Small Business Group and the Retail Banking team. She is dedicated to supporting and serving her community through her troop leadership role with the Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay, and as an active member of her local school district parent-teacher association. Adrienne Hawes has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Contact Center Director, overseeing all facets of sales and operations for WSFS Customer Contact Centers located in Wilmington and Philadelphia. Ms. Hawes joined WSFS in 2003. Most recently, she was a Vice President and Regional Sales Manager, a role that focused on improving branch production and growing market share through business development and community outreach. She is an active member of her community serving as a board member and Ambassador at the Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce, and founding member of the Dover Networking Group and Vision, among other initiatives in Central Delaware. Shelly Kavanagh has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of Southern Delaware where she will continue to develop relationships with key constituents throughout the region and oversee 13 banking offices in Kent and Sussex Counties, Del. Ms. Kavanagh joined WSFS in 2012 as a Small Business Relationship Manager. Prior to her current leadership role, she successfully augmented the Banks retail sales process as a Vice President and Retail Program Manager. Her banking career began in 2006 with BB&T in Washington, D.C., and she has extensive experience in retail banking and small business lending. Ms. Kavanagh is a board member of the Delaware Small Business Chamber and she is an active volunteer for several nonprofit organizations in Sussex County. Rory Maher has joined WSFS as Senior Vice President, Regional Manager of Greater Wilmington where he will lead nine banking offices throughout the Wilmington area. He joins WSFS from M&T Bank where he most recently worked as a Retail Regional Manager in Newark, Del. He is a graduate of McDaniel College where he received a B.A. in Business Administration and earned his M.B.A. from Strayer University. Mr. Maher brings a passion for Customer engagement and a deep background in small business banking. Jeremy Shackleford has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Regional Manager of Greater Philadelphia where he will lead 10 banking offices in Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey. He joined WSFS in 2018 as a Regional Manager with significant experience developing, managing and building high performing teams while establishing and enhancing sales processes and stellar Customer experiences. Mr. Shackleford was previously Senior Vice President and Regional Manager for Susquehanna Bank and BB&T. He began his banking career in 2002 at Bank of America, and prior to that served 10 years in the United States Air Force. WSFS Bank is currently recruiting a Regional Manager for the Banks Northeast Philadelphia and Bucks County, Pa. region. About WSFS Financial Corporation WSFS Financial Corporation is a multi-billion dollar financial services company. Its primary subsidiary, WSFS Bank, is the oldest and largest locally-managed bank and trust company headquartered in Delaware and the Delaware Valley. As of March 31, 2019, WSFS Financial Corporation had $12.2 billion in assets on its balance sheet and $19.0 billion in assets under management and administration. WSFS operates from 152 offices located in Delaware (49), Pennsylvania (72), New Jersey (29), Virginia (1) and Nevada (1) and provides comprehensive financial services including commercial banking, retail banking, cash management and trust and wealth management. Other subsidiaries or divisions include Beneficial Equipment Finance Corporation, Cash Connect, Christiana Trust Group, Cypress Capital Management, LLC, NewLane Finance, Powdermill Financial Solutions, WSFS Institutional Services, WSFS Wealth Investments, West Capital Management, and WSFS Mortgage and Arrow Land Transfer. Serving the greater Delaware Valley since 1832, WSFS Bank is one of the ten oldest banks in the United States continuously operating under the same name. For more information, please visit wsfsbank.com. Media Contact: Jimmy A. Hernandez (302) 571-5254 jhernandez@wsfsbank.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ca35a544-36fc-4700-85c4-124dd8fb07e9 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1fd87756-cb57-442e-9c4f-dc0ccdcafb86 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2eaeeeaa-41df-4905-be9b-6cd8b2e3199e http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/08b0d116-cbbb-4bf7-8c23-c77ee8b331a1 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12fd3979-959f-4b6c-8a0a-f700c7eb4deb http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dae4f346-2119-48c7-82bd-0dcc91b35852 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/44ee4359-da43-479f-87f9-1b4671e2e5f5 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f3065f56-07f5-4758-8b14-0759cb38e747 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/44d15f1a-28e4-4115-84e1-35bc30414a15 WARSAW (Reuters) - Poland's JSW, the European Union's biggest coking coal producer, does not expect coal orders from major client ArcelorMittal to fall following the steelmaker's decision to halt operations at its blast furnace and steel plant in Krakow. ArcelorMittal Poland said on Monday it plans to temporarily stop production its furnace and steel plant in southern Poland in September, citing rising carbon emission costs and surging power prices. "We do not expect quantity cuts in coal orders from ArcelorMittal," JSW Chief Executive Daniel Ozon told Reuters. "The coke from ArcelorMittal's coking plant in Poland will be delivered to other steel plants in Europe. I do not see significant risks in relation to ArcelorMittal's statement yesterday." Ozon added that he saw some signs of slowdown in the automotive sector but, based on talks with JSW's clients, assumed that sales volumes should rebound next year. Shares in JSW were 7.14 percent lower by 1151 GMT. (Reporting by Agnieszka Barteczko; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) Credit: Tim CadienteSound the alarms: Tool's new album has an actual release date. The much-anticipated record, the long-awaited follow-up to 2006's 10,000 Days, will finally arrive on August 30. Tool first revealed the news during their show in Birmingham, Alabama by putting the date on a large video screen, as captured by fans on social media. The enigmatic metallers then confirmed it on their own Twitter account. Tool's current tour launched over the weekend at the Welcome to Rockville festival, during which they premiered the new songs "Descending" and "Invincible." The run will continue Wednesday in Louisville, Kentucky. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. A group of Hells Kitchen tenants have won the right to physical keys after they sued their landlord for installing a keyless entry system that they claimed violated their right to privacy and amounted to tenant harassment. The plaintiffs say the settlement is a first in limiting the use of keyless technologies in residential spaces, which is increasingly finding its way into New York City apartment buildings. This is a huge victory for these tenants and tenants throughout New York City," said Michael Kozek, the attorney representing the tenants. "These types of systems, which landlords have used to surveil, track, and intimidate tenants, have been used frequently in New York City." On Tuesday, a Manhattan civil court judge signed off on a settlement agreement between five tenants at 521-525 W. 45th Street and the building owners, Shai Bernstein and Offir Naim, who in September installed a keyless or smart lock technology called Latch in a lobby, mailroom, and elevator. The technology, which offers users the option of accessing their apartments with a phone app as well as a keycard, has been installed in more than 1,000 buildings across the city, according to a recent New York Times story. But the five Hell's Kitchen tenants, who remained through the building's recent renovations as protected tenants under the citys Loft Law, said they did not want to use the system for fear of being tracked, either by the app or by keycard. They also said setting up the phone app was too complicated, and required a smartphone. Its a house of cards, Ron Sharpe, 65, told Gothamist. Its taking too much of your personal information to make it work. He added: It was a means of passive harassment. Im glad we dont have to submit [to it]. Charlotte Pfahl, another one of the tenants who filed the lawsuit, called the agreement a relief, saying they decided to settle because the lawsuit had already cost them "thousands of dollars." We didnt want to continue even though we felt confident we would win, she said. Bernstein declined to comment. Naim and their attorney did not immediately return a request for comment. According to court documents, the owners said they installed the keyless system as a security measure after a burglary in August 2018. They also said that tenants could disable the GPS tracking function on the app. Prior to the settlement, a Latch spokesperson told Gothamist that the tenants were given keycards, and added that the software neither collects nor stores GPS data and it does not share users' personal information with third parties for marketing purposes. (The statement did not address whether the app collects usage data other than GPS.) Nevertheless, the case has prompted proposed legislation. Democrat Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal, a Democrat who represents the Upper West Side and parts of Hells Kitchen, introduced a bill in March that prevents landlords from requiring a smart access system as the only means of entry, as well as limiting the kind of personal data that companies can collect. Keyless technologies in residential spaces are currently unregulated in the U.S. But San Francisco is on the cusp of becoming the first municipality to ban facial recognition technology, another keyless entry method being introduced in buildings nationwide. In Brooklyn, tenants have filed a complaint with the state over a landlord who is trying to install facial recognition system at a rent-regulated complex in Brownsville. Under state rules, landlords of rent-regulated apartments built before 1974 must seek permission from the states Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) agency for any modification in service. Sharpe said the tenants were handed their keys on Tuesday evening, putting an end to months of inconvenience and legal drama and expenses on both sides. "It's not even a special key," he said. "It probably cost $2 at a hardware store." UPDATE: In response to the story, a Latch spokesman issued a statement, saying that the lawsuit contained "many inaccuracies about how Latch works." He added: "At a private residence such as an apartment, the access history of individual residents at their home remains private to that specific resident alone and is never shared with anyone, including property management." Medtronic plc To Assess the Potential of Non-Opioid Treatment Options for Chronic Pain, Study Evaluates Pain Relief, Patient Function and Satisfaction DUBLIN and LAS VEGAS - May 7, 2019 - Medtronic plc (MDT) today announced primary endpoint (3-month) results of the Vectors Post Market Clinical Study that demonstrated effective pain relief and improved function in patients with chronic intractable back and leg pain treated with spinal cord stimulation (SCS) utilizing the EvolveSM workflow*.1,2 Medtronic offers the Evolve workflow to help physicians balance high-dose (HD) and low-dose (LD) therapy settings on Medtronic SCS systems, including the Intellis(TM)platform. Results were presented at the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP) annual meeting and found that patients experienced a statistically significant and clinically meaningful3 improvement with 69 percent of patients experiencing >= 50 percent improvement in overall pain and 70 percent achieving a personal activity goal at three months.1,2 "More and more clinicians are seeking long-term, non-opioid treatments for chronic pain, so it`s important to understand how to best optimize SCS treatment with tools like the Evolve workflow," said John Hatheway, M.D., Northwest Pain Care of Spokane, Washington and primary investigator. "The potential for SCS to provide meaningful long-term improvements in quality of life, activities of daily living, and function is critical. It`s encouraging that results from the Vectors study are showing effective pain relief and improved patient function." Ninety percent of study subjects had a successful screening trial. One-hundred-three were then implanted with the device, and 98 patients completed the primary endpoint (3-month) visit. Data from the study demonstrated sustained pain relief, improved quality of life and decreased disability after device implant.1,2 69 percent of patients had at least a 50 percent improvement in overall pain 70 percent of patients achieved a personal activity goal 81 percent of patients were satisfied with their therapy 65 percent improved at least one disability category in the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) The prospective, single-arm, multicenter Vectors study was designed to provide evidence for the Evolve workflow by assessing the effectiveness and potential patient benefits of SCS while having access to both HD and LD stimulation modalities. SCS has traditionally used LD stimulation (40 Hz); however, HD stimulation (1000 Hz), the starting point for the Evolve Workflow, is becoming a more common starting frequency.4,5 At three months, 96 percent of patients remained on HD therapy alone.1,2 "Every patient is different, and to truly advance patient care we need clinical evidence that demonstrates significant benefits in pain relief and also looks beyond that to patient quality of life, function and satisfaction," said Marshall Stanton, M.D., senior vice president and president of Medtronic`s Pain Therapies division, which is part of the Restorative Therapies Group. "Medtronic`s goal is to help clinicians maximize the potential impact of SCS and give their patients the best possible long-term outcomes. We continue to invest in research, like the Vectors study, to build clinical evidence and understand how we can continue to strive for the best therapy options for each individual patient." Story continues The Vectors study was conducted with Intellis, the world`s smallest fully implantable spinal cord stimulator, with Medtronic`s proprietary AdaptiveStim(TM) technology. The study will continue to follow patients through 6- and 12-month follow-up. About Chronic Pain At least 100 million American adults - more than the combined total affected by heart disease, cancer, and diabetes - are affected by chronic pain.6 Chronic pain can negatively impact all aspects of a person`s life - relationships, work productivity and activities of daily living, yet it remains under-recognized and undertreated.7 It is estimated that the cost to treat chronic pain in the U.S., as well as related lost productivity, is as high as $635 billion annually.8 About Spinal Cord Stimulation Neurostimulation has been proven to provide effective long-term pain relief and improve quality of life, and may be a non-drug treatment option for patients who do not get adequate pain relief from medication alone.9-13 Medtronic neurostimulation therapy for chronic intractable pain uses a medical device placed under a patient`s skin to deliver mild electrical impulses through a lead implanted in the epidural space to block pain signals from going to the brain. Spinal Cord Stimulation therapy may not be appropriate for everyone. Patients should discuss the potential risks and benefits of the therapy with a physician. About Medtronic Medtronic plc ( www.medtronic.com ), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is among the world`s largest medical technology, services and solutions companies - alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world. Medtronic employs more than 86,000 people worldwide, serving physicians, hospitals and patients in more than 150 countries. The company is focused on collaborating with stakeholders around the world to take healthcare Further, Together. Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic`s periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results. -end- References: J Hatheway, MD. (2019, May). High Dose (HD) and Low Dose (LD) Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) for the effective treatment of Chronic Back and Leg Pain: Pain Responders. Poster presented at the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians annual meeting, Las Vegas, NV M Fishman, MD. (2019, May). High Dose (HD) and Low Dose (LD) Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) for the effective treatment of Chronic Back and Leg Pain: Improvements in Function. Poster presented at the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians annual meeting, Las Vegas, NV Teng J, Mekhail N. Neuropathic pain: mechanisms and treatment options. Pain Practice. 2003;3(1):8-21. North J, Hon K, Cho P, Clinical outcomes of 1 kHz subperception spinal cord stimulation in implanted patients with failed paresthesia-based stimulation: results of a prospective randomized controlled trial. 2016;19(7):731-737. Benyamin R, Hatheway JA, Galan V, et al. Evaluating high dose parameters with spinal cord stimulation in failed back surgery syndrome patients. Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface. 2018;21(3):e1-e149 Relieving Pain in America: A Blueprint for Transforming Prevention, Care, Education, and Research; Consensus Report, Institute of Medicine (IOM), The National Academies Press, June 2011. Mekhail N, Wentzel DL, Freeman R, Quadri H. Counting the costs: case management implications of spinal cord stimulation treatment for failed back surgery syndrome. Prof Case Manag. 2011;16(1):27-36 Darrell J. Gaskin, Patrick Richard. The Economic Costs of Pain in the United States. The Journal of Pain, 2012; 13 (8): 715 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2012.03.009 North RB., Kidd DH., Farrokhi F, et al. Spinal cord stimulation versus repeated lumbosacral spine surgery for chronic pain: a randomized, controlled trial. Neurosurg; 56: 98-106 (2005). Kumar K., Taylor RS., Jacques L, et al., Spinal cord stimulation versus conventional medical management for neuropathic pain: a multicenter randomised controlled trial in patients with failed back surgery syndrome. Pain; 132: 179-188. (2007). Kemler MA., De Vet HCW., Barendse GAM et al., The effect of spinal cord stimulation in patients with chronic reflex sympathetic dystrophy: two years` follow-up of the randomized controlled trial. Ann Neurol; 55: 13-18 (2004). Taylor RS, Spinal cord stimulation in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Refractory Neuropathic Back and Leg Pain/Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: results of a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pain Symptom Manage; 31: S13-S19 (2006). Cameron T, Safety and efficacy of spinal cord stimulation for the treatment of chronic pain - a 20 year literature review. J Neurosurg Spine; 100: 254-267 (2004). * A workflow is guidance only and physicians should use their medical judgment and product labeling to optimize therapy for individual patients, which may require discontinuation or modification of a workflow. Contacts: Sara Thatcher Public Relations +1-901-399-2098 Ryan Weispfenning Investor Relations +1-763-505-4626 This announcement is distributed by West Corporation on behalf of West Corporation clients. The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein. Source: Medtronic plc via GlobeNewswire HUG#2243686 New York, NY, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- Qrons Inc. (QRON), an emerging biotechnology company developing advanced stem cell-synthetic hydrogel-based solutions to combat neuronal injuries with a laser focus on treating traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), both concussions and penetrating injuries, announced today the appointment of Dr. Motti Ratmansky, a member of Qrons Scientific Advisory Board as Special Advisor to the Company for IND & Clinical Trials. Remaining on the Scientific Advisory Board, Dr. Ratmansky will take a more active role as Senior Advisor to assist the Company in preparing for its IND (Investigational New Drug) filing. This represents the Companys further steps to enhance its operation for its IND and clinical trial enabling process, including the possible addition of US-based individuals. Jonah Meer, Qrons Chief Executive Officer, commented, Dr. Ratmansky is a highly experienced, well esteemed doctor. We have benefited from his guidance during his time on our Advisory Board. As we have been developing our QS100 and QS 200 product candidates there is now a need for the focus of a highly qualified person to advise us as we begin to prepare for dealing with the FDA IND program and clinical trials. Dr. Ratmansky is that person! Dr. Ratmansky is a qualified good clinical practice researcher and a member of Loewenstein's Hospital Institutional Review Board (IRB), with vast experience in human clinical studies design, regulatory approval and ethical aspects. He is also a member of the hospital's research funding committee, evaluating the financial aspects of clinical trials design. Loewenstein Hospital is the largest and leading Israeli hospital in the field of rehabilitation medicine. As a clinical trial lead investigator, he is responsible for preparing applications to the local IRB and U.S. National Institute of Health (NIH) National Library of Medicine registration, outlining the proposed clinical study and patients consent forms. He is currently serving as a lead investigator in 12 clinical trials. Story continues As a medical consultant in recent years to early stage biotech companies, he maintains the linkage between the R&D and the regulatory strategy by interacting with FDA regulatory consultants' designing research plans in accordance with regulatory demands. He has published several original research papers and reviews in international peer reviewed medical journals. Dr. Ratmansky holds an M.D. degree from the Technion Institute and B. Med.Sc from The Hebrew University as well as two specialties both in pain and rehabilitation medicine with 20 years of experience in clinical medicine. Ido Merfeld, Qrons co-Founder and Head of Product, stated, I have had the privilege of working with Dr. Ratmansky on our Scientific Advisory Board. We are thrilled that he sees the promise of our products and has agreed to provide special assistance and focus as we begin preparing for an IND and clinical trials. Dr. Ratmansky: Ive had the pleasure of working with Ido and the Qrons team as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the last year and a half and have seen first-hand the revolutionary treatment they are developing for TBI. I am excited to provide special assistance to shepherd the product candidates to an IND filing and clinical trials. About Qrons Inc. Headquartered in New York City, the Company is a publicly traded emerging biotechnology company developing advanced cell-based solutions to combat neuronal injuries with a laser focus on traumatic brain injuries and concussion. The Company has two candidate products for treating TBIs, both integrating proprietary, modified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and smart synthetic material QS100 an injury specific, 3D printable, implantable MSCs-synthetic hydrogel, to treat penetrating brain injuries and QS200 an injectable MSCs-synthetic hydrogel for the treatment of diffused injuries commonly referred to as concussions. The Company entered into a license and research funding agreement ("License Agreement") and related service agreements with Ariel University R&D Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Ariel University, based in Ariel, Israel. In consideration for payments under the License Agreement, the Company received an exclusive worldwide royalty-bearing license in Ariel patents and know-how to develop and commercialize products for neuronal tissue regeneration and/or repair, resulting from Ariel's research or technology or the Company's research funding. The Company entered into a Sponsored Research Agreement with Dartmouth College funding further research with Professor Chenfeng Ke and his team at the Chemistry Department, aiming to develop innovative 3D printable, biocompatible advanced materials. The Company is negotiating, a worldwide, royalty-bearing, exclusive license with Dartmouth for Professor Ke's 3D printable materials in the field of human and animal health. Please visit http://www.qrons.com. This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of risks and uncertainties impacting the Company's business including increased competition; the ability of the Company to expand its operations, to attract and retain qualified professionals, technological obsolescence; general economic conditions; and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's filings. Contact: Qrons Inc. Jonah Meer Chief Executive Officer 212-945-2080 (Bloomberg) -- India is going through one of the greatest periods of wealth creation -- and destruction -- all at the same time. A new breed of self-made entrepreneurs is vaulting into the ranks of the wealthy, offsetting billions lost by debt-burdened industrialists and members of the countrys old dynasties. The changes are set to help Indias ultra-rich population grow at the worlds fastest pace. Its a shift shaped partly by a debt-fueled expansion that left businesses from power generation to airlines with $190 billion in soured loans. Over the past few years, Prime Minister Narendra Modis government has cracked down on delinquent borrowers, and Indias banks moved to seize their assets, a dramatic change for a country where the wealthy once enjoyed almost complete protection. While old business clans continue to dominate Indias rich lists, a tenfold expansion in its economy since its opening in the 1990s has spawned new tycoons in fields like technology. The number of billionaires in India more than doubled to 119 between 2013 and 2018, according to Knight Frank. And the country will lead the global growth in ultrahigh net worth individuals, with its numbers rising 39 percent to 2,697 by 2023, the researcher estimates. "The business environment has improved over the years," said Charles Dhanaraj, a professor at the Fox School of Business at Temple University in Philadelphia. "The availability of venture capital and private equity has changed the opportunity space for promising businesses. So we should see more of these startups and scaleups in the coming years." Here are some well-known names who have seen a shift in their fortunes: Old Money Telecom Troubles: Anil Ambani, the younger brother of Asias richest man, inherited some of the newer businesses of Reliance Industries Ltd. in 2005 as part of a settlement with older sibling, Mukesh, following the death of their father Dhirubhai Ambani three years earlier. Now, more than a decade later, the younger Ambani has been fending off creditors and fighting multiple cases in courts amid his phone carrier Reliance Communications Ltd.s slide into bankruptcy. A representative for Anil Ambani didnt comment. The value of his holdings in companies has plunged to about $120 million from a net worth of at least $31 billion in 2008, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Story continues A Boom and Crash: The first-generation entrepreneurs, Shashi and Ravi Ruia, started the Essar Group in 1969 as a construction company. Later they diversified into new businesses, investing about $18 billion between 2008 and 2012. The excessive leverage across the group and some adverse policy actions forced them to sell many of their assets. The Ruia brothers were jointly worth more than $4 billion at the start of 2015, and have since lost their billionaire status, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The Turbine Maker: Tulsi Tantis Suzlon Energy Ltd. purchased German REpower Systems for nearly $2 billion in 2007 to be hailed as a global company, but things went downhill from there. Once the worlds top turbine maker, Suzlons debt-driven expansion caused one of Indias largest corporate debt default in 2012. Seven years later Tanti is struggling to repair his companys finances. Tanti, who had a net worth of more than $5.7 billion in 2007, has lost his billionaire status, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The Beer Baron: After inheriting his fathers liquor empire, Vijay Mallya, started Kingfisher Airlines Ltd. Struggling to repay lenders, the carrier was grounded seven years later. Mallya is currently fighting an extradition case in London after fleeing India. Lenders have sought to recover as much as $1.5 billion from the man known as the king of good times for his flamboyant lifestyle. New Money Retail Tycoons: Binny Bansal and Sachin Bansal, who arent related, created Flipkart, Indias largest online retailer, within a decade. Last year, they sold their company to Walmart Inc., becoming billionaires. Binny left shortly after, with Walmart said to have conducted an inquiry into a consensual relationship he had with a woman. He still holds 4 percent of Flipkart and a board seat. Sachin exited Flipkart at the time of the Walmart acquisition. The Payment Guru: Vijay Shekhar Sharma founded One97 Communications in 2000 when fewer than 10 million Indians were online. Business at his Paytm digital payment unit soared after the Indian government eliminated 500- and 1,000-rupee banknotes at the end of 2016. An August 2018 funding round valued One97 at more than $10 billion, people familiar with the matter said at the time. Sharma currently owns 15 percent of the company, according to a person familiar with the matter. Laws of Motion: Byju Raveendran, chief executive of Bangalore-based Think & Learn Pvt., launched the Byjus K-12 education app in 2015. His videos explain fractions or the laws of motion at a conceptual level, drawing almost 30 million users from 1,700 Indian cities. A December funding round valued it at $3.6 billion. Raveendran, his wife and brother together own about 36 percent, according to Raveendran. --With assistance from Swansy Afonso, Anindya Upadhyay and Pei Yi Mak. To contact the reporters on this story: P R Sanjai in Mumbai at psanjai@bloomberg.net;Saritha Rai in Bangalore at srai33@bloomberg.net To contact the editors responsible for this story: Sam Nagarajan at samnagarajan@bloomberg.net, Anjali Cordeiro For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. Over a hundred sex workers, activists, and allies converged on Albany yesterday to call for the passage of two bills aimed at protecting sex workers from police harassment and clearing their records of crimes traffickers forced them to commit. The trip, part of a recently-announced push to decriminalize sex work in New York State, highlighted the newfound willingness of a precarious community to publicly campaign for their rights. The day began with a rally on the elaborately carved stone steps of the state capitols Million Dollar Staircase, where speakers detailed the experiences of sex workers and trafficking survivors. People steal from us and commit violence against us because our criminal status makes it hard to pursue justice, said Kate Zen, an organizer with the Flushing-based migrant sex workers' coalition Red Canary Song, While studying at Columbia, Zen chose to enter the sex trade, but was later tricked by an online advertiser into being trafficked out of state, where she was beaten and forced to perform sex work without a condom. A police officer told me that I would not be sympathetic as a victim, even though I had been assaulted, robbed, and raped by someone who could be legally defined as my trafficker. Zen spoke in support of a bill, co-sponsored by State Senators Jessica Ramos and Julia Salazar, that would allow sex trafficking victims to have convictions for trespassing, larceny, and other offenses vacated if they can show they were coerced by traffickers. Currently, only prostitution charges can be vacated, leaving trafficked sex workers with criminal records that can bar them from employment and housing. The bill would also remove a requirement that victims complete a rehabilitation program to clear their records. On Monday, just a few days after being introduced, the bill cleared the Senate Codes Committee, the first step to a floor vote. Generational leadership has changed, and were more willing to have conversations that we havent had before about sex work, Senator Ramos told Gothamist. In addition to the vacature bill, Salazar and Ramos are at work on a package of bills to decriminalize sex work altogether. Were still figuring out language and should be introducing it soon, Ramos added. A second bill, sponsored by Senator Brad Hoylman and Assemblymember Amy Paulin and currently awaiting a vote in the senate's Codes Committee, would end a statute criminalizing loitering for the purpose of prostitution. Advocates refer to the current statute as the walking while trans ban, pointing to numerous instances of police profiling trans women for standing for too long in a particular place on the sidewalk, wearing a short skirt, or waving at a car. According to the Legal Aid Society, 85 percent of people charged under the statute between 2012 and 2015 were black or Latinx. Black trans women like me should not be criminalized for survival work, said TS Candii, a member of the low-income organizing group Voices Of Community Activists & Leaders (VOCAL-NY). We should not be criminalized for being trans, for our existence. TS Candii of VOCAL-NY speaks at the Albany rally. (Zoe Beery) Numerous speakers criticized the NYPD Vice Squad and its connection to the death of Yang Song, a Flushing massage parlor worker who fell off a second-floor balcony during a police raid in November 2017. Assemblymember Dan Quart called for an investigation of the task force, whose misconduct he and several other lawmakers have highlighted recently. When asked how likely he considered such an investigation, he told Gothamist that its really up to this mayor and the police commissioner to own this issue and take responsibility for the failures of the Vice Squad. Following the rally, eighteen small teams of advocates took fifty closed-door meetings with legislators to push for passage of the bills and discuss the upcoming decriminalization package. Many, like Audrey Melendez, an outreach specialist at Housing Works, were in Albany for the first time. Im here to start the process of getting my trans sisters more freedom and legal rights, Melendez told Gothamist. As a visibly trans woman of color Ive experienced many of these traumas myself and had to resort to sex work in the past because I could not find employment, and being able to discuss these things today, Im feeling empowered. The Harm Reduction Coalitions Kacey Byczek, whose lobbying group included representatives from Callen-Lorde Community Health Center and Gay Mens Health Crisis, told Gothamist that all three of her meetings produced pledges to vote for at least one of the bills: The legislators were receptive, and they all seemed aware of decriminalization as a racial, economic, and gender justice issue. A lobbying team regroups following a legislator meeting. (Zoe Beery) Despite the activists positive outlook, neither bill appears to be a top priority for the legislature, which has just seven weeks left this session and is gearing up for a struggle over the June 15 expiration of the states rent laws. The activists, though, say they are in it for the long haul. Earlier in the day, during her rally address, Decrim NYs Audacia Ray turned her back on the press gaggle to face the staircase full of sex workers, telling them to dig in. This fight is going to be hard, she said. People are going to say awful things about us. But our experiences as hustlers and survivors are going to get us through. Listen to WNYC's Mara Silvers discuss the legislation with host Jami Floyd below: When Rachel Borton worked as a nurse on a hospital floor, her co-workers grumbled each time she interrupted her rounds to pump breast milk for her baby. "You're going again? How many times do you have to do this?" are among the refrains Borton recalls hearing -- even from fellow mothers. "I found it a huge challenge," she says. "I sometimes had to eat as I was doing this. No way they were going to let me take a lunch break after I had just been gone for 20 minutes." While many workers struggle to maintain a satisfying work-life balance, working mothers may find it nearly impossible to steady the scales. Technology has enabled some companies to demand nearly 24/7 availability from their employees. Meanwhile, modern mothers face social pressure to devote themselves around the clock to their children's care. "Those messages are entirely misaligned," says Eden King, associate professor of industrial-organizational psychology at Rice University. "When women go to work, they're acting against their expected role." No activity exemplifies this identity clash quite as literally as pumping at work, which may force a mother to choose between competing demands: feed her child or fulfill her professional responsibilities. Moms have the legal right to express breast milk at the office. But doing so may prompt managers and co-workers to express irritation, resentment or even disgust. Research shows this kind of cultural pressure can powerfully shape the experiences working moms have even in organizations with policies designed to shield them from undue scrutiny. Indeed, the fact that even nurses -- health care professionals well-versed in the benefits of breastfeeding -- sometimes complain when their colleagues pump hints at the social stigmas working mothers face across all industries. In workplaces that lack or don't enforce policies designed to support working moms, a negative culture can be especially damaging. That's what Borton, now an assistant professor of nursing at Bradley University, found when she interviewed mothers working in retail, fast food and other service jobs in rural Illinois. Women who tried to breastfeed in those environments reported that co-workers called them "gross," accused them of seeking male attention and interrupted their pumping sessions by walking into the areas set aside for lactation. Story continues Even though some of these women knew they had the legal right to pump, they feared they would be punished for complaining about this kind of harassment. "The more I interviewed these women, the angrier I got," Borton says. [READ: Time-Management Tips for Working Parents.] The Power of Workplace Culture For working moms to thrive, then, company policies are necessary but not sufficient. Ample research suggests that it's also essential to be surrounded by respectful leaders, managers and co-workers. Without social support at the office, working moms who take advantage of lactation rooms and benefits like paid maternity leave may find themselves penalized. "The subtle messages moms get is even in the places where they have such policies -- they shouldn't use them if they want to succeed in those organizations," King says. It can be tricky for women to figure out in advance whether a company's culture will help or hinder them during and after their pregnancies. They'll get some useful insight by reading employee handbooks and asking questions during job interviews. But they may also need to do a little sleuthing. "I would absolutely recommend talking to women who work there, especially people who have gone through whatever you think you're going to go through," King says. Research suggests women should pay special attention to the following factors, which affect whether moms succeed -- and feel successful -- at work. Legal Compliance Federal and state laws outline basic protections for pregnant women and working mothers. Unfortunately, employees can't always assume that employers comply with these regulations. Women who understand their rights have an advantage. At companies with at least 15 employees, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act ban discrimination and harassment against women who could become pregnant, are pregnant, were pregnant or who terminated a pregnancy. These laws also entitle some working women to special accommodations, such as light duty, additional breaks or permission to work remotely, without reduced pay. Pumping at work laws require employers covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act to provide mothers with reasonable time to express breast milk for up to a year after the birth of a child, although these breaks may be unpaid. Covered companies must also provide a private space for lactation that is not a bathroom. Women may be able to find out whether a company has previously violated these laws by conducting research on the website of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Comprehensive Child Care Policies Unlike most other countries, U.S. federal law doesn't mandate that employers provide paid maternity leave. The Family and Medical Leave Act requires many employers to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to workers who give birth to or adopt a child. California, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island require companies to provide paid parental leave. Additionally, many employers in other states also offer the benefit, which means aspiring parents may find it worthwhile to compare the paid leave provisions that different organizations provide. Some companies offer child care resources such as flexible spending accounts designed for day care costs or backup child care options when a parent's primary form of care falls through. Many parents appreciate company policies that permit them to work remotely or follow flexible schedules that accommodate their children's unpredictable needs. [READ: How Working Parents Can Handle Child Care Emergencies.] Reasonable Role Models and Supportive Supervisors Company executives play a big part in shaping workplace culture. Women may want to consider the signals CEOs and other executives send through their words and deeds. For example, Marissa Mayer, the former CEO of Yahoo, infamously took only a few weeks of maternity leave after the birth of her children. In contrast, GM CEO Mary Barra says she takes steps to limit after-hours office commitments so she can attend her children's evening activities. "The people who are successful in organizations are often the ones who didn't take any maternity leave," King says. "What I think a lot of women are seeing are messages from people above and around them that they need to be available all the time, and family needs to take a back seat, with work as the priority." While corporate leaders set the overall tone for a company's culture, a woman's immediate supervisor has a lot of influence over her daily life. "They dictate whether or not you can take advantage of policies that exist," King explains. "You may have flex time available, but your supervisor gets the final say on whether you can take that." Look specifically at whether a company has "men around who are empowering women, lifting them up, sponsoring them, advocating for them," advises Kristen Jones, assistant professor of management at the University of Memphis. "We know that men have disproportionately more status and power across the workforce," she explains. "That means they're in the best position to advocate for and support and change culture and make a difference for pregnant women and mothers." [READ: How to Interview Your New Boss.] Accommodations for Pumping at Work Women who want to continue breastfeeding after maternity leave need several accommodations that facilitate pumping at work, Borton says. They need breaks of 15 to 20 minutes about every three hours. They need private, secure spaces with electric outlets in which to pump. And they need access to refrigerators to store breast milk. But that's not all. Breastfeeding women also need psychological safety, according to research conducted by Sabrina Volpone, assistant professor of organizational leadership at the University of Colorado Leeds School of Business. That's possible only when mothers aren't stigmatized for pumping and don't have to worry whether co-workers might take advantage of the fact that they need occasional breaks. "A big thing we heard from a lot of our participants was being able to talk about it," Volpone says. Additionally, breastfeeding women benefit when colleagues support their efforts by scheduling meetings around pump breaks and covering shifts when necessary. "It's co-workers caring about your situation and if you have enough time to pump, helping you navigate breaks you need during the day," Volpone says. Respect Working moms often discover there's a fine line between support and condescension. Colleagues who offer pregnant women unsolicited health or parenting advice and managers who assume moms would prefer not to work on key projects may have good intentions, but those actions can undermine women's success. "We all have these ideas and stereotypes about pregnant women, that they're delicate, need extra assistance and need to be protected," Jones says. "Making assumptions about what women want or need inadvertently tells a woman she does need help and is not as competent as before." Jones' research shows that some help pregnant women receive at work enhances their competence, while other kinds of "aid" diminish it. "When women received this sort of lesser form of help, it actually ended up hindering their work, and this decreased their self-efficacy at work," Jones says. "It predicted increased intentions to quit their jobs." It may be wise to be wary of colleagues who address pregnant women with patronizing nicknames, fawn over them, offer to carry small items for them or comment on their bodies. "When a woman still wants to prove herself and maintain her legitimacy at work, that can present a challenge," Jones says. Working moms need workplace cultures with: -- Legal compliance. -- Comprehensive child care policies. -- Reasonable role models and supportive supervisors. -- Accommodations for pumping at work. -- Respect. More From US News & World Report In conjunction with National Teacher Appreciation Day, Bemidji resident selected among 7,000+ substitute teachers state-wide BEMIDJI, Minn., May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- National Teacher Appreciation Day serves as a reminder to schools, parents and communities to honor and appreciate the daily contributions teachers make in students lives. In celebration, Mary Rollheiser, substitute teacher and resident of Bemidji has been selected by Teachers On Call (TOC) as the Minnesota Substitute Teacher of the Year for the 2018-19 school year. TOC, the leading educational staffing provider in the northwest U.S., awards one of 7,000+ Minnesota substitute teachers every year with this honorable title. Eligible substitute teachers must have strong performance records in addition to being nominated by school leaders, students and others. Rollheisers recognition is based on exemplary service as a substitute teacher at J. W. Smith Elementary School in Bemidji. Ms. Rollheiser constantly and consistently goes above and beyond what is asked of her, and we see students visibly reap the benefits of her passion and commitment to their education, said Patricia Welte, principal of J.W. Smith Elementary. She knows the students and teachers by name and we consider her a member of our school staff. Ms. Rollheiser even went to the extent of investing her own funds, time and energy into revamping the new space thats our teachers loungeshe is a true advocate for teachers and students alike. After retiring from a full-time teaching career of 33 years with Bemidji Area Schools, Rollheiser began substitute teaching in order to continue doing what she loves but with a flexible schedule. Since joining TOC in 2007, Rollheiser has taught at a number of schools in the Bemidji area, and has most recently been calling J.W. Smith Elementary her home. Ms. Rollheiser is a true representation of the high-caliber educators that TOC provides to all of its partner schools and we are very proud to honor her dedication to the community, said Al Sowers, vice president and practice leader of TOC. Teachers such as Ms. Rollheiser create a successful learning environment in the classroom and facilitate the continuity of student achievement each and every day. Her significant level of care and inspiration she instills in the students at J.W. Smith Elementary is extraordinary. Story continues About Teachers On Call Teachers On Call (TOC), a Kelly Services company, has been making a difference in schools and early childhood education centers since 1999. TOC provides substitute education professionals to 150+ school districts and 450+ early childhood education centers, charter, and private schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The company is currently expanding its reach to provide educational staffing to states throughout the Northwest. In 2017, TOC was acquired by Kelly, a global leader in workforce solutions, and became a part of Kellys Education Practice. Combined with Kellys 70+ years in the staffing industry and TOCs tenure in educational staffing, TOC offers its client schools unique value and unparalleled experience and expertise. Media Contact: Heather Klee Teachers On Call 248.519.3642 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4b4b3952-ee03-48e6-a29d-c5dc3d00e58b In conjunction with National Teacher Appreciation Day, Shorewood resident selected among 4,000+ substitute teachers state-wide SHOREWOOD, Wis., May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- National Teacher Appreciation Day serves as a reminder to schools, parents and communities to honor and appreciate the daily contributions teachers make in students lives. In celebration, Bonnie Adams, substitute teacher and resident of Shorewood has been selected by Teachers On Call (TOC) as the Wisconsin Substitute Teacher of the Year for the 2018-19 school year. TOC, the leading educational staffing provider in the northwest U.S., awards one of 4,000+ Wisconsin substitute teachers every year with this honorable title. Eligible substitute teachers must have strong performance records in addition to being nominated by school leaders, students and others. Adams recognition is based on exemplary service as a substitute teacher at Shorewood School District. Bonnie is far more than a substitute to our school district, she is a true member of the Shorewood community, said Jackie Wagner, business office manager for Shorewood School District. Her willingness to bounce between buildings and serve in varying roles, including instructional assistant, teacher and school nurse, is the epitome of dedication. Her loyalty to Shorewood and passion for education has visibly influenced and enriched the lives of our students and staff." Adams has been working with Shorewood School District since 1997 and joined TOC in 2016 when the district and TOC began their partnership together. Her commitment, passion and expertise are reflected in her decades of versatile contributions as substitute teacher, nurse, and para. Ms. Adams is a perfect representation of the high-caliber educators that TOC provides to all of its partner schools and we are very proud to honor her dedication to the community, said Al Sowers, vice president and practice leader of TOC. Professionals such as Ms. Adams create a successful learning environment in the classroom and facilitate the continuity of student achievement each and every day. Story continues About Teachers On Call Teachers On Call (TOC), a Kelly Services company, has been making a difference in schools and early childhood education centers since 1999. TOC provides substitute education professionals to 150+ school districts and 450+ early childhood education centers, charter, and private schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The company is currently expanding its reach to provide educational staffing to states throughout the Northwest. In 2017, TOC was acquired by Kelly, a global leader in workforce solutions, and became a part of Kellys Education Practice. Combined with Kellys 70+ years in the staffing industry and TOCs tenure in educational staffing, TOC offers its client schools unique value and unparalleled experience and expertise. In Prospect Heights, the intersection of Washington Avenue and Lincoln Place is clearly in the midst of a wave of gentrification: a stretch of tree-lined blocks with handsome prewar apartment buildings, a trendy cafe, and a nine-story 36-unit luxury condominium project scheduled to open in 2020 where two-bedrooms start at $1.2 million. The boroughs stately cultural institution, the Brooklyn Museum, is a block away. At the same time, the corner building at 840 Washington Avenue, a four-story low-income residential building that was previously owned by the city, has over the last several years been on a much different trajectory: The property has become saddled with violations and home to a rat infestation so bad that many residents of buildings on Lincoln Place have taken to walking in the street to avoid them and taking car services straight to their apartment buildings. And while the building owner blames nearby construction, neighboring residents say that the problems date to when an affordable-housing developer took over the building in 2016. "It's like a game of mousetrap, said Diana Kyrwood, who has lived on the block since 2005. Its really gotten out of control. As she spoke, about half a dozen rats, many with fattened-looking bodies, brazenly scampered around the building as people walked by. With the exception of those feasting inside a trash bag, they were constantly on the move, darting this way and that along the sidewalk and onto the other side of the street. Many could be seen disappearing into crevices around the buildings edges and scampering across an adjacent empty lot. One rat scurried under cars, curiously raising its head into the undercarriage. Later, a gaggle of children dramatically stomped their feet as they trudged past the building. Trailing behind them, their mothers explained that they were trying to scare away the rats. Rats have long been a much talked-about problem in New York City, despite the fact that the disease-carrying population is notoriously difficult to measure and pretty much impossible to defeat, according to experts. Rats are so ubiquitous that many New Yorkers have largely become inured to them, to the extent that only the most unusual sightings and skirmishes draw interest nowadays. Still, the conditions around 840 Washington Avenue, whose entrance is on Lincoln Place, have stood out, residents said. So much so that in recent weeks, a movement of renters and coop owners on Lincoln between Washington and Underhill avenues has been formed to address the problem. Two weeks ago, Alexandra ODaly, who moved to the block in October, put up posters on lampposts asking people who had also seen rats to send an email to LincolnPlaceRats@gmail.com. O'Daly said she received around 15 emails, and an abundance of horror stories. Several people said they had moved because they couldnt handle it anymore. One man said a rat chewed through wires in his car, which led to a costly repair. Others expressed concern that the rats appeared to be spreading down the block. But there was one thing that surprised her. I didnt realize people had tried to do something, she said. A screengrab from a video (embedded above) taken by a local resident. Ben Lazarus, who lives in a nearby building, said at least a dozen of his neighbors have filed 311 complaints for more than year. According to the most recently available 311 data, there have been about 110 rat sighting complaints for the building between October 2017 and April 2019. That works out to more than one rat complaint per week. Lazarus said that although he had seen individuals periodically performing inspections, No one really does anything. It certainly hasnt gotten better." He said he and neighbors have tried reaching out to councilmember Laurie Cumbo, but her staff has been keeping us at arms length." Cumbo's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Lazarus and other residents trace the rat problems to the sale of the building. The city, through its Department of Housing Preservation and Development, took title to the property in 1982 following a foreclosure. In 2016, the city sold the building to an affordable housing developer called FSG Partners LLC for $1, a routine price for developers of affordable housing on city-owned lots. The head officer of FSG is listed as Felicia Colon, an affordable housing developer who in 2005 was honored by HPD with its Woman of the Year Award. The building has 11 units, eight of which are currently occupied, according to HPD. FSG says it is currently undergoing a $3 million renovation with the help of city financing and federal tax credits. Similar to other affordable projects on city-owned land, HPD maintains an enforcement mortgage, equal to the land's appraised value, and a regulatory agreement on the property. But despite those protections, the building has been poorly maintained. There are currently 91 open HPD violations, for issues including mold, defective flooring, peeling surfaces, broken fixtures and failing to provide adequate hot water. But what residents on the block noticed up until recently was that garbage and other debris was regularly strewn across the front of the building. In an email, a spokesperson for HPD said that the rats are related to nearby construction activityand referred inquiries to the Health Department. According to the Department of Health, the property failed six inspections in 2018 and was treated by DOH 7 times that year, at the cost of the property owner. Following a failed inspection on March 12, the owner of the property was sent an order to abate and the property is now pending compliance inspection. On May 3rd, inspectors issued the owner of the property summonses for severe rat activity and exposed garbage. "There are three significant new construction projects within 100 meters of that corner," FSG partner Getz Obstfeld told Gothamist. "Whenever you have that kind of construction going on, they disturb the burrows of the rats that are underground." As a result, he said, "that whole area is plagued by rats." (A search of city 311 records found only a single rat complaint in the last year and a half for 400 Lincoln Place across the street, and none for 201 Eastern Parkway, a large apartment complex adjacent to the construction site on the opposite side of Washington Avenue.) Obstfeld said FSG has an exterminator in monthly, and said the landlord has not received any tenant complaints about rats. The violations, he insisted, were mostly minor and had largely been corrected, though this hasn't yet been reflected in the HPD database. Asked about the reported trash problems, Obstfeld paused for a long time, then said FSG couldn't do anything about tenants who don't dispose of trash properly, adding, "I dont think we have any worse record [than any other building] on the street." He said FSG planned to add a security camera to identify anyone who may be dumping trash on the street. "Wed love to work with the community and have a unified effort to tackle this problem," he said, adding, "We've done our part." As part of a campaign to get Cumbo to assist them, neighbors recently began taking photos and videos to document the rats and the garbage. A photo of trash in front of 840 Washington Avenue taken by a Lincoln Place resident on April 29, 2019. Residents said the unsightly and smelly trash situation had been an issue for more than a year. But it suddenly improved last Thursday. Residents said they suspected that word had gotten out that someone had sent a tip to Gothamist and other press outlets. On the day prior to the cleaning, the New York Times sent a reporter and photographer to the block. Despite the latest actions, the block is still littered with rats, as witnessed during Gothamist's visit on Monday. Residents are pressing the city and landlord to come up with a prolonged eradication strategy. The cleanup, which included using new trash cans, was an important step, Lazarus said. But he added: Were so far beyond that at this point. If they had done this two years ago, we wouldnt be where we are now. At this point, thats not going to fix the problem. UPDATE: An HPD spokesperson emailed Gothamist the following statement regarding the building's violation history: "The onus is on the owner to remove open violations on a propertys record. Therefore, its up to him to have the record corrected." UPDATE 5/8/2019 8:58 p.m.: The story has been updated with a response from the Department of Health. UPDATE 5/9/2019 10:15 a.m.: A spokesman for council member Cumbo said that upon hearing complaints from residents, her office investigated the situation at 840 Washington and reached out to a nonprofit, Housing and Family Services of Greater New York, to perform the clean-up. NEW YORK, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (TNXP) (Tonix) today announced the appointment of Daniel Goodman, M.D., MBA to its Board of Directors, effective May 6, 2019. Dr. Seth Lederman, Chief Executive Officer of Tonix commented, We are pleased to welcome Dr. Goodman to the Tonix Board, as he brings 20 years of biopharmaceutical research and development leadership experience that will be invaluable to Tonix as we grow the company. We have benefitted from Dr. Goodmans service on our Scientific Advisory Board since 2010. We look forward to the insights Dr. Goodman will bring to the Board. Its a pleasure to join a company with such a strong sense of purpose and a dedicated and experienced management team, said Dr. Goodman. I hope to offer a unique perspective to Tonixs board and management team. Dr. Goodman served as a member of Tonixs Scientific Advisory Board from 2010 until his appointment to the Board. Dr. Goodman is Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Riverside Pharmaceuticals, LLC which focuses on drug repurposing for treatments of neuropsychiatric diseases. He serves on the Board of Directors of PsychoGenics, Inc., a leading neuroscience drug discovery company with a proprietary, high throughput, informatics-driven platform for evaluating compounds for CNS disorders which it has partnered with several major pharmaceutical companies. PsychoGenics and its pharmaceutical partners have advanced multiple drugs into clinical trials which were either discovered or repurposed using its proprietary platforms. Dr. Goodman served as cofounder and CEO of PsychoGenics 1998-2000. Dr. Goodman practices psychiatry in New York City and Greenwich, CT at a practice that he founded in 2003 and which specializes in psychopharmacology, and is also President and cofounder of The Midtown Practice for Psychiatry, a group psychopharmacology and psychotherapy practice. Dr. Goodman is a Board-Certified psychiatrist and has served as a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College since 2006. Dr. Goodman was also cofounder and President of Resolvyx Pharmaceuticals which developed potential treatments for inflammation. Dr. Goodman earned an MBA from Columbia University, a medical degree from Harvard Medical School and a Diploma in Mathematic Statistics from Cambridge University, which he attended as a Churchill Fellow, after graduating from Yale College Summa Cum Laude in Mathematics. Story continues About Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. Tonix is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing pharmaceutical products to treat psychiatric and pain conditions, and biological products to improve biodefense through potential medical counter-measures. Tonixs lead program is for the development of Tonmya* (TNX-102 SL), which is in Phase 3 development as a bedtime treatment for PTSD. Tonix is also developing TNX-102 SL as a bedtime treatment for fibromyalgia and agitation in Alzheimers disease under separate INDs to support potential pivotal efficacy studies. The fibromyalgia program is in Phase 3 development and the agitation in Alzheimers program is Phase 2 ready. The agitation in Alzheimers disease IND has been designated a Fast Track development program by the FDA. TNX-601 (tianeptine oxalate) is in the pre-IND application stage, also for the treatment of PTSD but by a different mechanism from TNX-102 SL and designed for daytime dosing. TNX-601 is also in development for a potential indication - neurocognitive dysfunction associated with corticosteroid use. A Phase 1 clinical formulation selection pharmacokinetic study of TNX-601 will be conducted outside of the U.S. in 2019. Tonixs lead biologic candidate, TNX-801, is a potential smallpox-preventing vaccine based on a live synthetic version of horsepox virus, currently in the pre-IND application stage. *Tonmya has been conditionally accepted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as the proposed trade name for TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets) for the treatment of PTSD. TNX-102 SL is an investigational new drug and has not been approved for any indication. This press release and further information about Tonix can be found at www.tonixpharma.com . Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as anticipate, believe, forecast, estimate, expect, and intend, among others. These forward-looking statements are based on Tonix's current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third party payor reimbursement; limited research and development efforts and dependence upon third parties; and substantial competition. As with any pharmaceutical under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. Tonix does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) on March 18, 2019, and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Tonix's forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof. Contacts Jessica Morris (corporate) Tonix Pharmaceuticals investor.relations@tonixpharma.com (212) 980-9159 Scott Stachowiak (media) Russo Partners scott.stachowiak@russopartnersllc.com (646) 942-5630 Peter Vozzo (investors) Westwicke Partners peter.vozzo@westwicke.com (443) 213-0505 Wednesday, May 8, 2019 The Zacks Research Daily presents the best research output of our analyst team. Today's Research Daily features new research reports on 16 major stocks, including Verizon (VZ), Abbott (ABT) and Illinois Tool Works (ITW). These research reports have been hand-picked from the roughly 70 reports published by our analyst team today. You can see all of todays research reports here >>> Verizons shares have gained +22.1% in the past year, outperforming the Zacks Wireless National industrys increase of +10.2% during the same period. Verizon started 2019 on a promising note with solid performance in the first quarter, primarily backed by the wireless business. The company recorded modest top-line growth and remains well poised to benefit from the impending 5G boom. The Zacks analyst thinks focus on online content delivery, mobile video and online advertising are likely to stoke further growth. Management also raised its earlier guidance on underlying strength of its business model. However, Verizon continues to struggle in a competitive and saturated U.S. wireless market, where spectrum crunch has become a major issue. The wireline division is struggling with persistent losses in access lines owing to competitive pressure from VoIP service providers and aggressive triple-play offerings by cable firms. Verizon is also spending heavily on promotion and lucrative discounts to woo customers, which is also weighing on margins. (You can read the full research report on Verizon here >>> ). Shares of Abbott have gained +29.5% over the past year, outperforming the Zacks Medical Products industry, which has increased +5.9% over the same period. Abbott exited first quarter 2019 with better-than-expected earnings and revenues figures. The Zacks analyst likes the strong and consistent performance by the companys EPD and Medical Devices segments on an organic basis. The company has been hogging the limelight within Diabetic Care on growth with FreeStyle Libre. Within Structural Heart, worldwide strong uptake of MitraClip has improved further following the FDA approval of its upgraded version. Story continues This apart, synergies from Alere consolidation in the form of revenues from Rapid Diagnostics have been driving growth. Abbott's emerging market performance has been promising. On the flip side, sluggish Rhythm Management arm in the United States continues to dent growth. Increasing currency headwinds to some extent dented Abbotts international performance in the last-reported quarter. (You can read the full research report on Abbott here >>> ). Illinois Tool Works shares have outperformed the Zacks Industrial Machinery industry over the past six months, gaining +14.4% over the period versus the industrys +10.3% increase. The Zacks analyst thinks Illinois Tool will gain from a diversified business structure, policy of rewarding shareholders handsomely, enterprise initiatives and skilled management team. In first-quarter 2019, the company's earnings surpassed estimates but declined year over year due to weak sales, higher taxes, forex woes and restructuring costs. For 2019, it anticipates earnings per share to increase 4-8% year over year. Enterprise Strategy is anticipated to boost margins by 100 basis points (bps). Share buybacks are likely to amount to $1.5 billion. However, organic sales are predicted to increase 0.5-2.5%, down from previously mentioned 1-3%. Also, high tax rate and unfavorable foreign exchange (that will lower earnings by 6 cents in the second quarter) remain concerns. Earnings estimates for 2019 have declined in the past 30 days. (You can read the full research report on Illinois Tool Works here >>> ). Other noteworthy reports we are featuring today include Moody's (MCO), Equinix (EQIX) and Baker Hughes (BHGE). Breakout Biotech Stocks with Triple-Digit Profit Potential The biotech sector is projected to surge beyond $775 billion by 2024 as scientists develop treatments for thousands of diseases. Theyre also finding ways to edit the human genome to literally erase our vulnerability to these diseases. Zacks has just released Century of Biology: 7 Biotech Stocks to Buy Right Now to help investors profit from 7 stocks poised for outperformance. Our recent biotech recommendations have produced gains of +98%, +119% and +164% in as little as 1 month. The stocks in this report could perform even better. See these 7 breakthrough stocks now>> Mark Vickery Senior Editor Note: Sheraz Mian heads the Zacks Equity Research department and is a well-regarded expert of aggregate earnings. He is frequently quoted in the print and electronic media and publishes the weekly Earnings Trends and Earnings Preview reports. If you want an email notification each time Sheraz publishes a new article, please click here>>> Today's Must Read Verizon (VZ) Rides on Wireless Strength, Margins Ail Organic Growth Aids Abbott (ABT), Dull Rhythm Management Ails Divestments to Aid Illinois Tool (ITW), Organic Sales Drag Featured Reports Expansion Strategy Aids Equinix (EQIX) Amid Stiff Competition Per the Zacks analyst, the IBX expansion strategy will strengthen Equinix's global footprint in the data-center space. However, stiff competition may negatively impact its pricing power. Diverse Revenues Aid Moody's (MCO), Low Bond Issuance a Woe Per the Zacks analyst, Moody's efforts to diversify revenue base and inorganic growth strategy will aid profitability. PACCAR (PCAR) Rides on High Truck Demand Amid Cost Woes Per the Zacks analyst, demand for PACCAR's Class 8 truck is rising due to continued economic and freight growth in America and Europe. Baker Hughes (BHGE) Banks on LNG Deals, Low Spending Hurts The Zacks analyst expects Baker Hughes to gain from a series of profitable LNG projects. Strong New Recurring Subscriptions Sales Aid MSCI (MSCI) Per the Zacks analyst, MSCI is benefiting from strong demand for custom and factor index modules and the increasing adoption of the ESG solution into the investment process. Solid Demand Aids International Paper (IP), Input Costs Hurt Per the Zacks analyst, continued strong demand across its businesses will aid International Paper's results despite the impact of elevated input and distribution costs. SaaS Arm Aids ResMed (RMD), Dull Device Sales in France Ail The Zacks analyst is optimistic about rapid growth in ResMed's Software-as-a-Service business driven by continued expansion of Brightree and Healthcare first. New Upgrades Revenue Growth & Diversification Aids Northern Trust (NTRS) Per the Zacks analyst, focus on initiating new business against the backdrop of macroeconomic headwinds should bolster Northern Trust's revenues. Moreover, its diverse products are a strength. Vulcan Materials (VMC) Gains From Solid Aggregates Business Per the Zacks analyst, Vulcan Materials is well poised given broad-based shipment growth, price improvements and operating efficiencies in aggregates business. Renewables Expansion, Flexible Financials Aid AES Corp (AES) Per the Zacks analyst, AES Corp is expanding its renewables overseas footprint. It also maintains a flexible liquidity position and expects to generate $4 billion in discretionary cash in 2019-2022. New Downgrades High Funding Costs, Low Margins Hinder Annaly's (NLY) Growth Per the Zacks analyst, unfavorable funding dynamics and compressed spreads will impact Annaly's performance. The company also slashed its quarterly dividends. Pricing Pressure & Foreign Currency Woes Hurt ABIOMED (ABMD) ABIOMED is being plagued by pricing pressures and foreign exchange headwinds recently. The Zacks analyst is also apprehensive about the intensely competitive MedTech insutry. Geographic Diversity & Competition Hurt Monolithic (MPWR) Per the Zacks analyst, intensifying competition from peers and lack of geographic diversity in terms of end-customers are headwinds. undefined undefined Verizon Communications Inc. (VZ) : Free Stock Analysis Report Moody's Corporation (MCO) : Free Stock Analysis Report Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) : Free Stock Analysis Report Equinix, Inc. (EQIX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Baker Hughes, a GE company (BHGE) : Free Stock Analysis Report Abbott Laboratories (ABT) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research FILE PHOTO: Oil is pumped into an oil tanker at the Ust-Luga oil products terminal in the settlement of Ust-luga, April 9, 2014. REUTERS/Alexander Demianchuk/Fiel Photo By Olga Yagova and Dmitry Zhdannikov MOSCOW/LONDON (Reuters) - Trading houses Vitol, Glencore and Trafigura are caught in the crossfire between Russian oil producers and Western buyers, which have refused to take contaminated Russian crude bought by the traders. At least 10 crude tankers with 1 million tonnes of oil, worth more than $500 million (384.3 million) in normal circumstances, are marooned across Europe and still looking for buyers because they have been tainted with organic chloride. The three trading firms bought the biggest number of cargoes loading from the Russian Baltic port of Ust-Luga in late April to early May, while around two or three cargoes were also taken by trading units of Total and BP, four traders familiar with the market data said. Russian sellers included Rosneft, Russneft, Surgut and Kazakh firms, according to the traders and the loading schedules from Ust-Luga port in April and May seen by Reuters. But buyers including Eni, Exxon Mobil, Royal Dutch Shell, PKN and Repsol have refused to take the oil into their refining systems, according to at least a dozen traders and Refinitiv shiptracking data. Trading houses declined to comment. "This is a disaster and a huge blow to Russia's image as a reliable supplier. We hear promises from the Russian government that the problem will be fixed but it still hasn't been fixed," said a buyer of Russian crude, who asked not to be identified because his employer forbids him from speaking to the media. The contamination was discovered at the end of April, forcing Russia to shut the Druzhba pipeline which pumps 1 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude, or 1 percent of global supply. Druzhba serves Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Ukraine and Belarus. Oil from Ust-Luga, which ships 500,000 bpd to global markets, or 22 large tankers a month, has also been contaminated with organic chloride. The chemical compound is used for oil extraction but can damage refining equipment. The Russian supply problems contributed to an oil price spike to six-month highs and led to a drop in production from the world's second-largest exporter of crude. Story continues "The severity of the problem could mean that up to 400,000 bpd of Russian exports could be pulled out of the market," Citi said in a note adding that a prolonged outage could force refineries in Europe to cut refining runs steeply. A build-up of unsold cargoes from Ust-Luga could create a supply shortage in Europe and dent financial results of trading houses, which also faced a tough business environment in 2018. The Russian government promised to fix the quality problem at Ust-Luga by May 6-8 but five Russian oil buyers said on Wednesday the levels of organic chloride remained too high. At 60-75 parts per million (ppm), they were six times above normal levels, down from 10-15 times above the norm previously. "I asked my refining manager at what discount he would take such a cargo," a trader with a Western major that declined a cargo from Ust-Luga said. "Can we make a profit if we buy it at a huge discount? My refining manager told me - don't touch it. Why bother? The risks to refining equipment are just too big." For a map of the Russian pipeline, click on: https://tmsnrt.rs/2DytnnM FEARS GROW The trading houses are helping Russia ease tensions with buyers, as they are freeing up Russian producers and pipeline monopoly Transneft from having to dilute the contaminated oil with clean supplies before finding buyers. Crude contamination is not rare and has happened in recent years in the United States, Mexico and the Middle East. But the scale of Russia's problem is unusually large. For Ust-Luga cargoes, fixing the problem is a challenge, as blending contaminated crude with clean oil to meet required standards requires time, storage space and money. Terminals in Europe's biggest storage area, Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp, told customers they would not accept any crude with organic chloride above 50 ppm, three trading sources said. The Russian government and Transneft have not said whether Russian oil producers would receive compensation, which could in turn be provided to traders or western refiners. Moscow and Transneft have also not offered any help towards diluting contaminated oil. A Russian presidential spokesman declined to answer a question on Wednesday about whether Transneft should compensate Russian producers. Russian officials have said contaminated oil from the Druzhba pipeline could be taken by rail towards the Black Sea port of Novorossiisk, where Transneft has large storage tanks. "We are now performing mandatory quality checks from every single Russia port to avoid a repeat of the Ust-Luga disaster," a second trader with a Western major said. (Additional reporting by Gleb Gorodyankin and Ahmad Ghaddar; Writing by Dmitry Zhdannikov; Editing by Dale Hudson) It was a train ride 150 years in the making. With steam blasting from its sides, and a mighty roar of the whistle, enthusiasts, curiosity seekers and history buffs on Wednesday watched a restored Union Pacific locomotive depart Evanston, Wyoming, on a journey marking a seminal moment in Americas history. Its an amazing piece of machinery, said Chris Cannon, a self-described train buff visiting from Fredericksburg, Virginia. For years, people were saying one would never be rebuilt, and now, here it is. The Big Boy locomotive, developed in the 1940s as the worlds largest steam-powered engine, returned to the rails to commemorate the creation -- and construction -- of a rail system from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Called the Transcontinental Railroad, it spawned the American rail industry, linked the industrializing East with the developing West, and helped to build a country recovering from a period of devastating Civil War. On the eve of the railroads 150th anniversary, the Union Pacific No. 4014, just one of 25 Big Boys ever produced, thundered from southwest Wyoming to Ogden, Utah, as spectators gathered along the route to catch a glimpse. Ive known about the Big Boys ever since I became a buff, Cannon added. Its one of the most popular and important steam locomotives ever made. LOOKING BACK The completion of the railroad, many historians argue, was the countrys most significant technological achievement of the 19th century, and quite possibly remained so until the moon landing 100 years later. The endeavor began in 1862 with the Pacific Railway Act signed by President Abraham Lincoln. Construction got underway in January of the following year. The legislation authorized two railroad companies one in California, another in Nebraska to build a single rail line across the breadth the countrys vast western expanse, ushering in the first railroad to span a continent. Union Pacific laid its first ties in Omaha, where the company remains headquartered to this day, and built west. Meanwhile, workers from the Central Pacific Railroad of California initiated the same task in Sacramento, heading east. Story continues In May 1869, workers met in Utah, having completed more than 1,900 miles of track. At that spot, now part of a national historical park near present-day Ogden, they would lay the final piece rail, celebrated with an 18-karat golden spike. There are very few companies in the world that have been around for 150 years, Union Pacific President and CEO Lance Fritz told FOX Business, let alone ones that have the direct link to their country like we do. BIRTH OF A RAILROAD INDUSTRY In the 150 years since the Transcontinental Railroad's creation, the American railroad industry has developed dramatically and profoundly. According to the Association of American Railroads, the industrys lobbying consortium in Washington, the U.S. now operates 600 freight railroads, as part of a vast 140,000-mile nationwide system. In 2017, the industry generated nearly $74 billion in revenue, moving among its freight 13.7 million intermodal containers, 4.5 million carloads of coal and 1.6 million carloads of farm products. And as international trade has continued to expand, railroad company revenues have jumped 26 percent in the past 10 years, according to Transportation Department statistics. Trains carry both outbound goods to American ports for export, along with incoming consumer and industrial products from places like China. TRADE CONCERNS Despite this, trade has emerged as a worrisome issue to the nations railroad companies. Amid U.S. trade fights with China, Mexico and the European Union, Union Pacific in the first quarter of 2019 reported that revenues from agricultural freight fell 3 percent compared to a year ago. As Chinese buyers turned away from more expensive American soybeans and pork, shipments to West Coast ports have sagged. Fritz says Union Pacific has seen an impact on trade flow as a consequence of the trade battle, calling the tariffs a very blunt instrument with real effects on the nations economy. We are not a fan of tariffs, Fritz said. But perhaps even more importantly, Fritz says his companys focus has been on the newly negotiated USMCA agreement with Canada and Mexico. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement is designed to take the place of the 1990s-era NAFTA pact, which President Trump has called the worst trade deal ever approved. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX BUSINESS APP Today, Union Pacifics arteries extend not just west, but south. The companys rail map blankets portions of Northern and Central Mexico, extending from major ports of entry along the U.S. border, down to the industrial coastal city of Veracruz. However, the USMCA has run into potential hurdles in Congress, with even some Republican members warning that if U.S.-imposed steel and aluminum tariffs against Mexico arent first lifted, the deal could fail to reach ratification. Its critical that the U.S. Congress ratify the USMCA, Fritz said. It is a better deal. It has modernized many aspects of NAFTA. Thats a great thing. Now, at this point, we need to move forward. GOLDEN MOMENT But in the town of Ogden, set at the base of a range of mountains, onlookers are more interested in the past than the present. On Thursday, the Big Boy No. 4014 will meet another Union Pacific train, the Living Legend No. 844, at the site of the Golden Spike. The locomotives, as they join together, will represent the meeting of western and eastern segments of the line at the same spot workers did in 1869. We built America, Fritz added. Weve been doing it for 15 decades, and we look forward to doing it for 15 more. As the No. 4014 sat poised for the trip to Ogden, spectators marveled at the imposing size of the shiny Big Boy locomotive, weighing approximately 1.2 million pounds. To me, this was like the greatest steam locomotive like there ever was, said Paul Browning, another train lover from Heber Valley, Utah. Its just the biggest, heaviest, most powerful steam locomotive in history. What a sight. Related Articles Shares of Ohio-based automaker Workhorse jump more than 200% after a tweet from President Trump. The president says General Motors CEO Mary Barra informed him that GM would sell its shuttered Lordstown manufacturing plant to Workhorse to build electric trucks. GM clarifies that it is still in talks about a potential sale. A tweet by President Donald Trump sent shares of penny stock Workhorse AMPD soaring Wednesday. Shares of the Ohio-based automaker, which makes electric vehicles, jumped more than 214%. The stock closed at $2.65 after opening at 82 cents on Wednesday. Workhorse has a market value of just $173 million. In a tweet Wednesday, the president said that General Motors CEO Mary Barra informed him that GM would sell its shuttered Lordstown manufacturing plant to Workhorse to build electric trucks. GM later clarified that it is still in talks about a potential sale of the Warren, Ohio-based plant. Trading in stocks below a dollar is often a risky business because of potential for outsized moves. Workhorse has an average daily volume of 345,127 shares. On Wednesday, its trading volume was up to 29.8 million shares. Analysts at Cowen said the Trump tweet was behind the surge. The tweet crashed the company's website, which was still inaccessible about three hours after the Trump mention. Cowen also said Trump's comments raised speculation that "Workhorse is likely to be a vendor for the US Postal Service program." "Based on media reports and comments from the US Postal Service, testing for the next generation vehicle is done and a request for production is due later this year," Cowen analyst Jeffrey Osborne said in a note to clients Wednesday. Workhorse told CNBC it was one of the finalists being considered for the postal service contract but would not comment further. "We are pleased with this development, but note the tweet from Trump is incredibly vague as it relates to financial ramifications for Workhorse," Osborne said. Story continues GM's Lordstown assembly plant shut down in March in an effort by the automaker to avoid making the same financial mistakes that sent it into bankruptcy in 2009. Trump has blasted GM's decision to close the plant, which produced more than 16 million vehicles over a span of several decades. TWEET Workhorse manufactures electric delivery and utility vehicles. It also makes a carbon-fiber, helicopter-type flying vehicle called the SureFly Octocopter. "This potential agreement creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community," Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said in a press release Wednesday. CNBC's Ashley Turner contributed reporting. More From CNBC By Tom Polansek (Reuters) - Tyson Foods Inc said on Monday that the U.S. meat processing industry could reap significant financial gains from a global shortfall in pork as an incurable hog disease spreads rapidly across Asia. Tyson projected its U.S. pork, chicken and beef units could all benefit from increased demand linked to outbreaks of African swine fever, after the Arkansas company reported quarterly profits above analysts' estimates. The disease, which is fatal to pigs but harmless to humans, has been detected in China, Vietnam, Cambodia, South Africa and parts of Europe. With African swine fever in China, the world's top hog producer, about 5 percent of the global protein supply has disappeared as demand is rising, Tyson Chief Executive Noel White said. China is expected to import more protein to make up for its hog deaths, which White estimated at 150 million to 200 million pigs. The losses could help Tyson by pushing up pork prices and prompting consumers to buy more chicken and beef as alternatives, he said. "African swine fever has the potential to impact the global protein industry on a level that we have never experienced," White said. Tyson shares rose 2.6 percent at $77.05 in afternoon trading and reached their highest price since early 2018. The company could start benefiting from African swine fever outbreaks late in fiscal year 2019, White said. The disease is already boosting U.S. pork and beef exports and tightening domestic supplies, chicken producer Pilgrim's Pride Corp said last week. So far, though, U.S. hog prices have climbed faster than those for pork on expectations for increased Chinese demand, crimping processors' margins. The potential for African swine fever to enter the United States represents a risk to Tyson and its rivals, such as WH Group Ltd's Smithfield Foods. U.S. cases would kill hogs and reduce exports. "The rate in which it has spread over the course of the last 12 months makes it very plausible that it could come to the United States," White said. Story continues African swine fever also could hurt Tyson by raising input costs for pork used in prepared food products. Tyson tempered an annual outlook for its prepared foods unit to a range of 10 percent to 12 percent return on sales, from closer to 12 percent previously. The company plans to raise prices for prepared foods over the next six months to compensate for more expensive raw materials, White said. He said higher meat costs will reduce demand among some consumers. Last year, sales in Tyson's prepared foods segment reached about $8.7 billion, compared with $4.9 billion in pork, $12 billion in chicken and $15.5 billion in beef. "We do not yet understand how pork and prepared food margins will be anything but impaired under the weight of higher hog costs," J.P. Morgan analyst Ken Goldman said. Profits in the quarter ended March 30 benefited from higher sales in beef and prepared foods. Excluding certain items, Tyson earned $1.20 per share, beating the average analyst estimate of $1.14. Quarterly sales were $10.44 billion, above expectations for $10.29 billion. (Reporting by Tom Polansek in Chicago; Additional reporting by Nivedita Balu and Aishwarya Venugopal in Bengaluru; Editing by Bill Trott and Lisa Shumaker) On Wednesday, hours after the New York Times published IRS tax transcripts offering an inside look at Trump's previous financial failures, the New York State Senate passed legislation that they say would lead to the full release of the president's tax returns. Passed by a 39-21 margin, the bill addresses the president's state tax documents, which would have much of the same information as his long-sought federal filing. If passed, the law would permit the New York Department of Taxation and Finance to release any state tax return requested by three congressional committee leaders, assuming it serves a "specific and legitimate legislative purpose." The legislation comes just as the tax showdown between the White House and Congress has begun to lurch forward. After Trump's Treasury Department defied a House Ways and Means Committee request to release the president's taxes earlier this week, House Democrats are expected to decide on Thursday whether they want to go straight to court to obtain the filings. They were reportedly emboldened to do so by Trump's decision to invoke executive privilege over the Mueller report. #BREAKING: The New York State Senate just passed my bill to provide state tax information to requesting Congressional committees. We are facing a constitutional showdown. New York, as the home of the Presidents state taxes, has a special responsibility to step into the breach. Senator Brad Hoylman (@bradhoylman) May 8, 2019 With the federal fight setting up a possible Supreme Court case, lawmakers in Albany believe they've come up with a useful workaround. State Senator Brad Hoylman, who introduced the bill, has previously described its purpose as "assisting Congress in its oversight role." Though similar Trump tax-focused bills have stalled out, lawmakers say this one is more "tangible." "We are facing a constitutional showdown," Hoylman tweeted on Wednesday. "New York, as the home of the Presidents state taxes, has a special responsibility to step into the breach." A companion bill introduced the State Assembly last week is believed to have broad support. A spokesperson for Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie told Gothamist: "We plan on discussing the bills with our members next week." Governor Cuomo has said he would sign the bill if it comes to his desk. Polls have shown that roughly three-quarters of Americans want Trump to release his tax returns, as all of his predecessors have done since Richard Nixon. Recent investigations into his financial dealings have shown that Trump skipped out on hundreds of millions of dollars in owed taxes as a civilian, and that he has continued to blur the line between his political and business life while in office. A bombshell report from the Times on Wednesday found that Trump claimed $1.17 billion in losses between 1985 and 1994. The president took to Twitter to blast the report as "Fake News," before explaining that he didn't actually lose all that money, but was merely cheating on his taxes. (Bloomberg) -- Uber Technologies Inc. has enough investor demand to price its initial public offering at the top end of its price range, people familiar with the matter said. With more than 48 hours to go before the ride-hailing giants IPO is expected to price, investors have put in orders for at least three times the amount of stock on offer, the people said, asking not to be identified as the details arent public. Still, Uber is expected to price the sale within its existing range as it is keen to ensure strong aftermarket trading for the stock, they said. Ubers share sale, which could raise as much as $9 billion, is likely to be the largest this year and one of the 10 biggest U.S. listings ever, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. The San Francisco-based company, which is due to price its shares Thursday, hasnt made a final decision on the price at which theyll be sold, the people said. The market environment could also impact the final price, after U.S. equities tumbled the most since January on Tuesday. The performance of rival Lyft Inc. is weighing on the mind of Uber executives as they market their IPO, the people said. That stock soared on its April debut after the original price range was boosted, but is now trading about 16 percent below its IPO price of $72 per share. A representative for Uber declined to comment. Uber Chief Executive Officer Dara Khosrowshahi and other executives have been meeting investors in cities including London, Boston and San Francisco over the past 10 days. The worlds biggest ride-hailing company is offering 180 million shares for $44 and $50. At the top of that range, the listing would value Uber at almost $84 billion, based on the number of shares outstanding after the offering as detailed in the filing. --With assistance from Eric Newcomer. To contact the reporters on this story: Ruth David in London at rdavid9@bloomberg.net;Crystal Tse in Hong Kong at ctse44@bloomberg.net;Sridhar Natarajan in New York at snatarajan15@bloomberg.net Story continues To contact the editors responsible for this story: Daniel Hauck at dhauck1@bloomberg.net, Elizabeth Fournier For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. After an impressive bull run in the first four months of this year, it seems volatility is once again ready to rear its ugly face in Wall Street. Trade-related tensions between the United States and China escalated for the first time in 2019 following a tweet by President Trump on May 5, hinting at more tariffs on China. However, the market recovered partially as negotiations are still going. Notably, trade-related tensions and the Fed's aggressive monetary stance were largely blamed for severe market volatility in 2018 which resulted in Wall Streets weakest performance in a decade. Although the Fed adopted a dovish stance since the beginning of 2019, trade spat heightened yet again when it was finally moving toward mutual agreement. Trade Tensions Escalate On May 5, President tweeted that the U.S. government will increase tariffs from 10% to 25% on $200 billion of Chinese goods effective May 10. Already, $25 billion Chinese exports are facing 25% tariff in the United States. Moreover, Trump also threatened to impose 25% tariff on additional $325 billion of Chinese goods any time soon. U.S. officials accuse China of erosion of commitments and said China is backtracking on commitments which it made during the negotiation process. U.S. officials are worried of a change in tone of Chinese delegations over the weekend. U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin blamed China of denying clear commitments on some key trade issues which could completely alter the trade deal. Notably, the trade deal was expected to materialize by the end of this week. Meanwhile, on May 6, CNBC reported that China hasn't cancelled the next round of negotiations as reported earlier. Chinese vice premier Liu He will lead a short delegation instead of a 100-member strong team to Washington later this week. Effects of Tariffs Per the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the country imported $539.5 billion of goods from China in 2018. U.S. trade deficit with China was at $419.2 billion last year. Therefore, virtually all Chinese goods will face U.S. tariffs if Trump administration levied duties on all proposed items. Investment management firm Morgan Stanly estimated a 0.3% drop in Chinese GDP and 8-12% erosion of emerging markets valuation if the United States hiked tariffs. Barclays predicted that new tariffs will hurt 3-5% of Chinese exports and 0.5% of its GDP. The United States will also bear the brunt of tariffs. China is the largest trading partner of the United States. A weak economy in China, the largest market for high-tech products, will generate headwinds for U.S. technology companies. Moreover, China plays the role of a low-cost supplier of intermediary products and other inputs to high-tech U.S. industries. Tariffs will raise the cost of these products making it very difficult for businesses to formulate long-term plans. How to Invest? Further delay in forming a trade deal between the two largest trading nations of the world will result in market volatility. The situation can become worse if the tariff war escalates further. Notably, the IMF has reduced its global growth projection primarily owing to the U.S.-China trade spat. At this juncture, it will be prudent to invest in high-yielding low-beta stocks, with a favorable Zacks Rank to keep ones portfolio safe from day-to-day market fluctuations. The beta is equal to 1, which means that the stock is as volatile as the market. So, a stock is relatively more volatile if it has beta greater than 1 and less volatile if beta is less than 1. High dividend will give more protection to your portfolio on the market's downslide. We have narrowed down our search to five such stocks, each carrying a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here. The chart below shows price performance of our five picks year to date. Story continues Camden National Corp. CAC provides commercial and consumer banking products and services to consumer, institutional, municipal, non-profit, and commercial customers. It has a beta of 0.80 and a dividend yield of 2.58%. It has expected earnings growth of 10.6% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 5.6% over the last 30 days. Meridian Bancorp Inc. EBSB provides financial services to individuals and businesses. It has a beta of 0.53 and a dividend yield of 1.60%. It has expected earnings growth of 18.9% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 5% over the last 30 days. Oaktree Capital Group LLC OAK operates as a global investment management firm that focuses on alternative markets. It has a beta of 0.54 and a dividend yield of 6.03%. It has expected earnings growth of 31.6% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 3.3% over the last 30 days. OP Bancorp OPBK operates as the bank holding company for Open Bank that provides banking products and services in California. It has a beta of 0.78 and a dividend yield of 1.90%. It has expected earnings growth of 16.9% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 22.4% over the last 30 days. SJW Group SJW engages in the production, purchase, storage, purification, distribution, wholesale and retail sale of water in the United States. It has a beta of 0.06 and a dividend yield of 1.95%. It has expected earnings growth of 29.1% for the current year. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current year has improved by 11.4% over the last 60 days. Radical New Technology Creates $12.3 Trillion Opportunity Imagine buying Microsoft stock in the early days of personal computers or Motorola after it released the worlds first cell phone. These technologies changed our lives and created massive profits for investors. Today, were on the brink of the next quantum leap in technology. 7 innovative companies are leading this 4th Industrial Revolution - and early investors stand to earn the biggest profits. See the 7 breakthrough stocks now>> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report SJW Group (SJW) : Free Stock Analysis Report Camden National Corporation (CAC) : Free Stock Analysis Report Oaktree Capital Group, LLC (OAK) : Free Stock Analysis Report Meridian Bancorp, Inc. (EBSB) : Free Stock Analysis Report OP Bancorp (OPBK) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research In this article: KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Reuters) - Malaysian palm oil futures was in line for a second day of gain on Wednesday, climbing to its highest level in four days in early trade. The benchmark palm oil contract for July delivery on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange was last up 0.5 percent at 2,051 ringgit ($494.81) a tonne. FUNDAMENTALS * Malaysian palm oil futures jumped by nearly 3 percent on Tuesday, recovering from a more than five-month low in the previous trading session, tracking gains in related edible oils. * Chicago soybean futures rose for a second session on Wednesday, with focus on whether the latest round of talks between Washington and Beijing this week will be able to stop an escalation in a festering trade dispute between the two. * Oil prices stabilised on Wednesday as markets remained relatively tight amid U.S. sanctions on crude exporters Iran and Venezuela. MARKET NEWS * Asian equities tracked Wall Street's slide on Wednesday, while investors switched to safe-haven government bonds, driven by fears that global growth will suffer as a potential trade deal between the United States and China appeared to be unravelling. * Growing fears about the impact of a worsening U.S.-Sino trade conflict on global growth kept the safe-haven Japanese yen near recent highs. * U.S. stocks slid on Tuesday as escalating trade tensions between the United States and China triggered global growth fears and drove investors away from riskier assets. For more vegetable oil-related stories, please click DATA/EVENTS (GMT) 0600 Germany Industrial Output MM March N/A China Exports YY April N/A China Imports YY April N/A China Trade Balance USD April Palm, soy and crude oil prices at 0253 GMT Contract Month Last Change Low High Volume MY PALM OIL MAY9 0 +0.00 0 0 0 MY PALM OIL JUN9 2026 +12.00 2009 2030 315 MY PALM OIL JUL9 2051 +11.00 2032 2058 3176 CHINA PALM OLEIN MAY9 4176 -10.00 4174 4228 274 CHINA SOYOIL MAY9 5400 +164.00 5238 5400 206 CBOT SOY OIL MAY9 26.81 +0.00 0 0 350 Story continues INDIA PALM OIL MAY9 0.00 +0.00 0.00 0 0 INDIA SOYOIL MAY9 736.2 +4.95 732.55 737.9 9000 NYMEX CRUDE JUN9 61.91 +0.51 61.43 61.95 28036 Palm oil prices in Malaysian ringgit per tonne CBOT soy oil in U.S. cents per pound Dalian soy oil and RBD palm olein in Chinese yuan per tonne India soy oil in Indian rupee per 10 kg Crude in U.S. dollars per barrel * For a table on Malaysian physical palm oil prices, including refined oil, Reuters Terminal users can double click on or type. * To view freight rates from Peninsula Malaysia/Sumatra to China, India, Pakistan and Rotterdam, please key in and press enter, or double click between the brackets. * Reuters Terminal users can see cash and futures edible oil prices by double clicking on the codes in the brackets: To go to the next page in the same chain, hit F12. To go back, hit F11. Vegetable oils -- Malaysian palm oil exports -- CBOT soyoil futures -- CBOT soybean futures -- Indian solvent -- Weekly Indian vegetable oils -- Dalian Commodity Exchange -- Dalian soyoil futures -- Dalian refined palm oil futures -- Zhengzhou rapeseed oil -- European edible oil prices/trades -- ($1 = 4.1450 ringgit) ($1 = 69.5860 Indian rupees) ($1 = 6.7673 Chinese yuan) (Reporting by Emily Chow; editing by Uttaresh.V) Typical class-action lawsuits against travel companies end with free tickets for the plaintiffs and money for the lawyers. But Attorney Michael Winkleman says that's not enough compensation for nearly one thousand people who were stranded and injured on the Viking Sky cruise ship in March. We've asked for $10 million at this point, but that would be global for everyone who was on that ship, Winkleman told FOX Business' Stuart Varney on Wednesday. Dramatic video recorded by passengers shows furniture sliding around the ship's deck after its engine failed and lost power off the coast of Norway during a storm. Agents from the Rescue Coordination Centre of Southern Norway had to one-by-one airlift passengers from the cruise ship. Winkleman, who is representing the passengers on board Viking Sky, said the cruise ship could have easily avoided the chaos by following the lead of two popular ferry services in the area. There's two ferry services. One runs north, one runs south, directly in this area off the coast of Norway - known to be one of the most dangerous spots, Winkleman explained. "Those two ferry captains? They didn't sail that day. You want to know why they didn't sail that day? Because it was putting their passengers at way too much risk. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX BUSINESS APP When asked why Viking should pay out a total of $10 million to the plaintiffs, Winkleman cited a husband and wife who signed on to the lawsuit. The wife fractured multiple ribs while her husband is still hospitalized with an infection related to his initial back injury. They played with these people's lives and I think the passengers who've already retained my firm and I - they were terrified, and it was a terrifying experience. Related Articles (Bloomberg) -- The first major self-driving taxi service needed six months to reach 1,000 customers, another sign that growth may be slow as companies try to build businesses around autonomous vehicles. Waymo, the self-driving project owned by Alphabet Inc., announced on Tuesday that it has enrolled 1,000 customers for its ride-hailing service in suburban Phoenix. Chief Executive Officer John Krafcik touted the milestone while revealing plans to allow select Lyft Inc. users in Arizona to hail Waymo taxis. The Google off-shoot is currently the only self-driving company carrying paying customers on public roads, although often monitored by human safety drivers. Crossing the 1,000 rider mark both solidifies Waymos status as the early leader in the autonomous race and underscores the plodding pace of advancement in the industry. Uber, the market leader in ride-hailing with human drivers, counts more than 90 million users worldwide. Waymo began accepting passengers in April 2017, part of a free-to-use pilot program, and allowed access to a limited number of paying customers last December. Riders have to live in the service arearoughly 100-square miles including Chandler and parts of Mesa, Gilbert, and Tempe southeast of Phoenixand apply for an invite from Waymo in order to enroll. By now, the sight of Waymos retrofitted Chrysler Pacifica minivans has become commonplace in the area. In a demo late last month, with two Waymo press officials and a safety driver on hand, a robotaxi summoned by the app pulled over in a cul-de-sac near the Chandler library. A Waymo employee selected for the destination a Macys store at a mall, about four miles away. The safety driver sat wordlessly, hands in his lap, as the passengers boarded. Do not touch the steering wheel or pedals, read a message on the wheel in front of him. If he did, the text warned, the van would pull over. The robot drove smoothly during an eight-mile round trip, stopping at red lights, changing speeds evenly and completing unprotected left turns and merges. The software nudged its way forward before making a right turn into traffic. Anyone who couldnt see the untouched steering wheel might not have guessed that it was a self-driving car. Story continues The most obvious difference from a human driver? The Waymo robot unfailingly announced lane changes. The flawless performance comes with caveats: Waymo picked the time (mid-morning on a sunny weekday in spring) and the trip (a straight shot on wide avenues with maximum speeds of 45 miles per hour). Before hailing the car, the Waymo handler walked a couple blocks from a busy street to the little-used library cul-de-sac. Traffic was light throughout, and there were very few pedestrians. The closest thing to a surprise was a truck on the side of the road protected by a pair of traffic cones. Safety drivers continue to be a reliable presence. Ive always had somebody in the drivers seat, and then sometimes we'll have an additional person [on the passenger side], said Adriana Munoz, a 31-year-old Chandler resident who has been a Waymo rider since last August. Im looking forward to that time where I can just get in and theres no one there. Thatd be really cool. Munoz, who was made available for an interview by Waymo, has taken about 15 trips so far, going to Starbucks, the gym, and restaurants with her son. She commutes in her own car to Phoenix daily and prefers Waymo on weekends, for trips within the service area. The driving, she said, is mostly similar to her own: They find that good open gap versus maybe somebody that's more of an aggressive driver would actually take that left-hand turn. Perhaps the greatest testament to Waymos progress in Arizona is that, for Munoz, the magic of self-driving has already begun to fade. Most of the time, Im on my phone, she said. Its just a car taking me someplace. To contact the author of this story: Ira Boudway in New York at iboudway@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: Aaron Rutkoff at arutkoff@bloomberg.net, Alistair Barr For more articles like this, please visit us at bloomberg.com 2019 Bloomberg L.P. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Deer Horn Capital Inc. (CSE: DHC, OTCBB: GODYF) (or Deer Horn) reports that, on May 1, the World Bank launched its Climate-Smart Mining Facility , the first-ever fund dedicated to making mining for minerals climate-smart and sustainable. The Facility will support sustainable extraction and processing of minerals and metals used in clean energy technologies such as wind, solar power and batteries for energy storage and electric vehicles. The fund focuses on helping resource-rich, developing countries benefit from increasing demand for minerals and metals while ensuring the mining sector is managed in a way that minimizes the environmental and climate footprint. We are excited to see this support for sustainable mining of critical metals, especially from an organization like the World Bank, said Deer Horn President and CEO Tyrone Docherty. While their initiative focuses on developing nations, we believe the Climate-Smart sustainability principles would benefit Canada, as well. According to the World Bank, Climate-Smart mining brings together investors, government, academia and research, cleantech companies and miners to help meet the demand for minerals as the world transitions rapidly to low-carbon technologies to combat climate change. Bringing these stakeholders together is similar to the partnership approach we are taking with critical metals innovators like Fenix Advanced Materials , the University of British Columbia, Teck Metals and Metal Tech Alley , said Docherty. We believe the time has come for the industry to look at innovative and more sustainable ways to finance exploration and development and bring critical metals to market. Docherty noted that Deer Horns approach led to the partnership announced in April to explore territorial lands in Northern BC, aligning with elements of the companys long-term vision regarding First Nations engagement and support. A fundamental tenet of Deer Horn has been to grow through partnership and stewardship, especially with First Nations, said Docherty. Story continues A key principle of Climate-Smart mining is sustainable mineral extraction. When you dig deeper into the Climate-Smart initiative, you see how theyre really advocating for more efficient and less impactful mining, said Docherty. They talk about innovation for a smaller environmental footprint, including what they call Forest Smart mining. Not only does this make sense for sustainability, it can also work well economically. Deer Horn has followed a similar philosophy in exploring its Deer Horn property in west-central British Columbia, following a small mine approach as outlined in the Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA)* completed in 2018. Starting with a small mine can offer important advantages, both economic and sustainable, while helping a project move towards production more efficiently. The typical strategy would be to keep drilling to try and increase the size of our resource, said Docherty. While we recognize the benefits of this conventional approach, we believe the long-term trend is towards these smaller, more sustainable operations that can scale up over time. As outlined in our recent PEA*, the small mine approach requires far less capital expenditure and development time, presents fewer permitting challenges and can provide a faster payback. More information about Deer Horns small mine strategy can be found on the companys Small Mine Approach web page. For detailed information, please consult Deer Horns recent Preliminary Economic Assessment .* Docherty also noted that, because of the expected smaller environmental footprint, Deer Horn has enjoyed First Nations support of its exploration and plans for advancing the property. We continue to work closely with First Nations representatives as we plan the next phases of work at the project. The Deer Horn property is one of few mineral projects in North America with an NI 43-101 qualifying resource for tellurium, a key component of thin-film, cadmium-telluride solar panels. Approximately 40% of the worlds tellurium supply is now consumed by the solar panel industry. About Deer Horn Capital Deer Horn Capital is committed to exploring for, and providing, strategic and critical metals vital to a low-carbon economy and for the advancement of technology. The Companys leadership has a track record of project monetization with a board and advisory group that includes industry leaders in finance, mineral property development, geology, mineralogy, solar power, engineering, research and First Nations engagement and economic development. * The preliminary economic assessment (PEA) is preliminary in nature. The PEA includes Inferred material that is considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to it that would enable it to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized. On behalf of the board of directors of Deer Horn Capital Inc. Tyrone Docherty Tyrone Docherty President and CEO For further information please contact: Tyrone Docherty 604.789.5653 tyrone@deerhorncapital.ca Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulations services accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking information All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Companys control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated event. Germany launched the first electrified truck route in the world on 7 May 2019, using overhead power lines supplied by renewable energy sources to cut emissions significantly in the local area. The system designed by Siemens uses similar technology to that seen on electric railways in Europe to connect the hybrid trucks to the power. While operating on electricity the maximum speed the lorries can travel is 90 kph (56 mph). The German government has invested 70 million ($77 million) to develop trucks that can use the system and with power lines now installed on a 10-kilometer stretch of road between the freight hub at Frankfurt Airport and an industrial park. Trucks will be connected to the electrical supply through the active pantograph, the major technological development. The pantograph can connect and disconnect the vehicle to the contact lines at all speeds and transfers electrical energy directly from the overhead power lines to the truck's electric motor. "A specially designed sensor technology allows the movable pantograph to automatically adjust its position under the contact line to compensate for lateral movements of the truck in the lane. The mechanism also minimizes wear across the pantograph to ensure a long lifespan," said the company. The eHighway solution is particularly beneficial to operations of less than 50 kilometers (31 miles) such as from ports to distribution centers. "In these situations, the eHighway system produces a significant reduction in pollutant and CO2 emissions. At the same time, the economic benefits of the system are felt particularly quickly on these high-use routes." The system reduces fuel consumption and air pollution and also cuts noise levels in the area as well as saving as much as 20,000 ($22,300) for every 100,000 kilometres (62,000 miles) in a 40-ton truck. "The eHighway system is based on a safe and proven infrastructure to provide a continuous energy supply to heavy commercial vehicles. It can be integrated and operated within the existing road infrastructure without significant effort and combines the efficiency of electrified railroads with the flexibility of trucks, halving energy consumption while maintaining full mobility," said a Siemen's statement. Story continues Siemens' eHighway hybrid truck technology. Image sourced from Pixabay The post World's first electrified roadways enter operation in Germany appeared first on FreightWaves. See more from Benzinga 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. Newly Created Organization and Leadership Position Marks the Companys Commitment to Accelerate Its Digital Transformation to Develop New Platforms and Surgical Solutions and Drive Software Innovation Across Business AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wright Medical Group N.V. (WMGI) today announced that they will create a new digital organization and appointed Jason Asper as sr. vice president, chief digital officer. This appointment is in addition to Mr. Aspers current responsibilities for strategy, corporate development and information technology. This new digital organization will focus to execute Wrights transformative digital surgery strategy to develop new platforms, accelerate surgical solutions and drive software technology innovation across the business. This organization will build upon the companys highly differentiated, market-leading BLUEPRINT software by leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality to provide innovative and transformative software-enabled surgery platforms and solutions for the extremities markets. This newly created organization will bring together our software-enabled surgery, information technology, and analytics organizations. In his new role, Mr. Asper will be responsible for developing and executing Wrights transformative digital surgery strategy across the companys extremities business units as well as leveraging technology to drive efficiencies across all functions of the company. Jean Chaoui, the former chief executive officer of IMASCAP and Wrights newly named vice president, chief software technology officer, will report to Mr. Asper and continue to lead the centralized software organization. This combined leadership team will further accelerate development of the companys BLUEPRINT platform, deploying new software-enabled solutions to create a comprehensive digital eco-system to improve patient outcomes. Story continues Robert Palmisano, president and chief executive officer, commented, Since the acquisition of IMASCAP, we, along with our physician partners, have developed a multi-year strategy and pipeline that I believe will be transformational for shoulder surgery. The opportunities for Wright in further developing and deploying our digital technology, including our BLUEPRINT platform into other areas, are enormous. We have a leadership position in our software enabling technology, and we want to take full advantage of that lead to maximize the revenue potential of our pipeline across all of our businesses. Building out our digital ecosystem is a key component of our business strategy, from a surgeon and patient perspective, as well as in terms of future business growth and product development. Jasons proven track record of success will serve us well as we focus on fully developing the BLUEPRINT technology for shoulder as rapidly as possible, expanding our digital technology in lower extremities and evaluating additional opportunities for our digital technology in other areas of medtech. Mr. Asper joined Wright in 2017 as Wrights senior vice president, strategy, technology and corporate development. Prior to joining Wright, Mr. Asper served as a principal for Deloitte Consulting LLP, a global consulting company, focused on strategy and technology primarily in the Medical Device industry. Mr. Asper has a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Chicago Booth and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Political Science from Indiana University. Internet Posting of Information Wright routinely posts information that may be important to investors in the Investor Relations section of its website at www.wright.com . The company encourages investors and potential investors to consult the Wright website regularly for important information about Wright. About Wright Medical Group N.V. Wright Medical Group N.V. is a global medical device company focused on extremities and biologics products. The company is committed to delivering innovative, value-added solutions improving the quality of life for patients worldwide. Wright is a recognized leader of surgical solutions for the upper extremities (shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand), lower extremities (foot and ankle) and biologics markets, three of the fastest growing segments in orthopaedics. For more information about Wright, visit www.wright.com . and denote trademarks and registered trademarks of Wright Medical Group N.V. or its affiliates, registered as indicated in the United States, and in other countries. All other trademarks and trade names referred to in this release are the property of their respective owners. CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This release includes forward-looking statements under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as anticipate, expect, plans, intend, could, may, will, believe, estimate, continue, guidance, future, other words of similar meaning and the use of future dates. Forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements about the companys ability to: successfully create a digital organization and leverage such organization to develop new software platforms, successfully expand new and existing software platforms into lower extremities and other clinical areas, successfully develop new applications and functionality for our BLUEPRINT enabling technology, successfully leverage emerging technologies, successfully create a complex digital eco-system for medical products and procedures, successfully drive and accelerate software innovation and solutions across our business, and improve patient outcomes. Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. Each forward-looking statement contained in this release is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statement. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, among others, failure to attract the talent necessary to build out an effective digital organization, failure to successfully develop a new digital ecosystem or effective new digital products or solutions, competition from other industry participants with similar strategies, failure to develop digital products or solutions that are accepted by the marketplace or which result in improved patient outcomes, inability to develop software solutions that are economically feasible (including from a reimbursement standpoint), inability to successfully partner with third parties needed to develop or license the software and hardware platforms required to execute our digital strategy, failure to successfully expand our digital technologies to lower extremities and other clinical areas, failure to launch new or improved BLUEPRINT modalities or to do so on a timely basis, intellectual property challenges to our digital products, platforms and services; and the risks identified under the heading Risk Factors in Wrights Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 30, 2018 filed by Wright with the SEC on February 27, 2019 and subsequent SEC filings by Wright, including without limitation its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. Investors should not place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this release. Investors are encouraged to read Wrights filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov , for a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements in this release speak only as of the date of this release, and Wright undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of these statements. Wrights business is subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, including those referenced above. Investors, potential investors, and others should give careful consideration to these risks and uncertainties. Investors & Media: Julie D. Dewey Sr. Vice President, Chief Communications Officer Wright Medical Group N.V. (901) 290-5817 julie.dewey@wright.com * More than 100 UAE-backed troops land on the island * Yemen's government opposes the move * Saudi allies fought each other as tensions rise * Socotra is UNESCO World Heritage Site By Aziz El Yaakoubi DUBAI, May 8 (Reuters) - The Yemeni government has accused the United Arab Emirates of landing around 100 separatist troops on a remote island in the Arabian Sea this week, deepening a rift between nominal allies in Yemen's war. The UAE is one of the Arab countries fighting formally on behalf of Yemen's internationally recognised government against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement that controls the capital. But the UAE has had a tense relationship with the government and has recruited thousands of fighters from a movement of southern separatists who have clashed with government troops. Yemeni officials said around 100 separatist fighters had disembarked in civilian clothes on Monday from a UAE naval vessel on Socotra, the main island in a sparsely populated Yemeni archipelago in the Arabian Sea. The island, part of Yemen but closer to the African coast than the Yemeni mainland, is a UNESCO world natural heritage site protected by the U.N. body for its unique flora and fauna. It was not the first time the government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, which is based in the southern port of Aden, has complained about UAE troop moves on Socotra. Last year the government accused the UAE of seizing the island when it unloaded tanks and troops there. Saudi Arabia, leader of the pro-Hadi Arab coalition, had to send troops to Socotra to defuse a standoff between Emirati and Hadi forces. Two Yemeni government sources said on Wednesday that the UAE had trained a batch of 300 troops bound for Socotra in Aden last week, and sent more than 100 of them to the island on Monday. Yemen's interior minister, reacting to reports that southern separatist troops were headed for Socotra, last week criticised the UAE and said it should concentrate on fighting the Houthis. Story continues "I think our partnership with the coalition is the war against the Houthis and not sharing the administrations of the liberated territories," Ahmed al-Mayssari said in comments broadcast by Yemeni television channels. The Emirati government and a spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment. In previous statements, the UAE has denied Yemeni accusations that it is seeking control of the island. The separatists say they have more than 50,000 fighters armed and trained by the UAE and aim to restore the independent state of Southern Yemen, which united with northern Yemen in 1990 at the end of a long war. Clashes between Hadi's forces and the southern separatists are relatively rare but on Wednesday they fought each other in the southwestern al-Dhalea province over control of government buildings, a statement from Hadi's forces said. The statement added Hadi forces left al-Dhalea after the clashes but were ambushed again on the way to Aden by the southern forces and "many were killed and wounded". It gave no further details. The UAE has been at odds with Hadi because of his alliance with the Islamist Islah party. The UAE sees Islah as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood, which it has designated as a terrorist organisation. (Additional reporting by Mohamed Ghobari in Aden) Metropolitan Community Colleges Fremont Area Center, 835 N. Broad St., will host an open house from 10 a.m. to noon June 8. Visitors will be able to explore academic programs and scholarships, take a tour and learn more about First Year Experience and Continuing Education programming opportunities. Academic programs that will be featured during the open house include: Cybersecurity, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Science, Health careers, Health Information Management Systems, Respiratory Therapy and the Colleges new Toyota T-TEN certification program. Open house attendees may also enter for the chance to win prizes, including one free class (up to 4.5 credit hours). To learn more, visit mccneb.edu/events or call 531-MCC-5231. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 After March floods swept through northeast Nebraska, damaging homes and displacing families, residents in the Fremont area came together to help each other recover. And on Tuesday, during the Fremont Area Big Give, residents in the area sought to come together again. The slogan for this years Fremont Area Big Give, an area-wide promotion for local nonprofits, was we pulled together, now lets give together. And according to Fremont Area Community Foundation Executive Director Melissa Diers, the community did just that on Tuesday. The one key thing that makes this year different is that this event is arriving on the heels of a major flood event for greater Dodge County, Diers said. So we wanted to be sure to be mindful of the efforts that are still underway but also to give pause to all of the efforts of all of the nonprofits that are an important part of the community, and celebrate the Fremont area. The Fremont Area Big Give, now in its third year, invites community members to donate to their favorite nonprofits in a 24-hour drive. Throughout the day, nonprofits hosted events to bring community residents out and to showcase their work. A ticker showing the total number of donations and a leaderboard featuring the progress of all of the nonprofits was on display at www.fremontareabiggive.org. This years event featured 60 different nonprofits based in Fremont and the surrounding communities. Donations were set to come in from midnight to midnight, and as of 6 p.m. ahead of the Tribunes press time, the amount raised totaled $255,110, amassed from 1,487 donations. That put it below last years number of $355,022 with seven hours left to go. Diers said that last years event had gotten off to a quicker start because there had been a scheduled donation of $75,000 to the Scribner Area Community Foundation to help the Scribner community build its new fire department. That payment was processed as soon as the event started. That definitely boosted the numbers right from the get go last year, she said. Other than that, It has been very similar to what weve done in years past, Diers said. All around, were just pleased to see everybody joining together again today to celebrate our community and all the nonprofits that make our community so great. By 6 p.m., Lutheran Family Services topped the leaderboard in terms of the total amount raised with more than $40,000. The Fremont Public Schools Foundation was in front in terms of number of unique donations with 198. Throughout the community, nonprofits held events to raise awareness of their work and to invite residents to come celebrate the day with them. Archbishop Bergan Catholic Schools held an all-school rosary, which was opened to the public on Tuesday morning, while the Fremont Area Alzheimers Collaboration held an educational event throughout the day to help those providing caregiving services to individuals with Alzheimers -- both for professionals and for families. Meanwhile, outside the Fremont Area Habitat for Humanitys office on Dodge Street just before noon, there was a smell of tacos in the air, courtesy of a Tacos Villasenor taco truck. The truck had just served a group of firefighters, and more than a dozen had come out in the trucks first hour despite the overcast weather. We wanted people to stop by and see us and everybody loves a taco truck, said Habitat Executive Director Joy McKay. The organization uses volunteer labor and donations to build affordable housing for families in need. Donors during the Big Give could get a coupon for 15 percent off in the organizations homestore, which sells furniture and other home goods. At that point in the day, Habitat had raised around $4,000 with a goal of reaching $10,000, said Executive Director Joy McKay. Each year, weve done more than the previous year, McKay said. I think its just a day to emphasize giving, whether its to Habitat or whatever organization -- I think its a fun event. The rainy weather did force some changes throughout the day. The Fremont Avenue of Flags was supposed to be hosting a Big Give Celebration at the Veterans Park, but that was cancelled due to rain in the forecast. This is the first year weve really struggled with weather and it could have been worse, Diers said. Over at LifeHouse, the weather forced the organizations Grillin and Chillin event, which featured hot dogs and other food, indoors. But that hadnt stopped a steady flow of donations from going to the organization, according to Julie Sleister, director of development and public relations. LifeHouse -- an organization that provides emergency shelter, food and more to those struggling with homelessness or poverty -- set a goal to raise $25,000. By noon, the organization had raised nearly half of that. Its just a great way for the community all to come together and get to know the nonprofits in town -- who they are and what theyre doing, Sleister said. While we all have our own specific missions, were all working together for the benefit of the community. And by having one day to celebrate all those nonprofits, Diers said, those organizations are able to amplify their message. A communitys not healthy and viable without a good strong network of nonprofit organizations, Diers said. They work together to enhance quality of life for the residents of our greater Fremont area, and they serve a vital need for a number of families that live in our community, so being able to showcase them and shine a spotlight on the work that they do during one single day of the year I think really highlights that fact. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. A former Texas Department of Public Safety evidence technician said DNA evidence connected one of two pit bulls to a fatal attack on an elderl Running into a burning building, instead of away from the danger, defies reason and nearly every human impulse. But that is exactly what our firefighters do in Nebraska and across the country every day. At the ring of a bell, these heroes in our communities risk their lives to ensure we are safe in some of lifes most dangerous situations. However, we have learned in recent years that running into the flames is not the only dangerous part of a firefighters job. If we think about what is in our own homes, we can understand why. From furniture to cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink, all of these materials will likely burn in a house fire releasing toxic chemicals, fumes, and carcinogens into the air. This creates an additional risk that our firefighters must shoulder when they enter a burning home or building. And even when the fire is extinguished, black soot and dangerous chemicals can stick to firefighters gear. In 2015, a study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that our nations firefighters have a greater number of cancer diagnoses and deaths from specific types of cancer, including digestive, respiratory, oral cancers, and others. Tragically, firefighters are succumbing to these types of cancers at a rate that is nearly 14 percent higher than the general public.[1] The study confirmed that firefighters have an increased risk of developing cancer because of what is known as occupational exposure. The Bruns family has experienced these devastating effects firsthand. A Lincoln Journal Star article featured two brothers, Gary and Alan Bruns, who lost their father to cancer in 2001. Their father served as a firefighter and fire inspector in Lincoln for 35 years. Both brothers have followed in their fathers footsteps to become firefighters themselves and have been working to find solutions to this grave issue. Unfortunately, small sample sizes during research and the lack of important occupational information have limited the precision of these studies. More robust data and statistics are needed to provide a clearer and more comprehensive picture of the causal links between firefighting and cancer. Last year, President Trump signed the bipartisan Firefighter Cancer Registry Act into law. The measure directed the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to develop a national, voluntary registry that collects and monitors the prevalence, incidence, and types of cancers among firefighters. This allows fire stations to send their information to the researchers and medical professionals at NIOSH, so they are able to analyze trends and the relationship between firefighting and the increased risk of cancer. Passage of the law was a step in the right direction, but I am committed to doing more to ensure the Firefighter Cancer Registry receives the resources it needs to save lives. This is why I partnered with Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) in writing a letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee requesting $2.5 million to fully fund the Firefighter Cancer Registry Act. The funding will be used to create an IT system that supports the national registry, enables firefighters to share their data, and guarantees this personal data remains secure and private. Each year I meet with firefighter groups that serve communities across the Good Life and they commonly note that making progress on this tragic issue is one of their top priorities. Our firefighters always have our backs when we need them the most, and they deserve our full help and support in return. If we improve our understanding of the risks and the potential causes of firefighting and increased cancer rates, we can develop better ways to provide protection and prevent this deadly disease. Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week. Deb Fischer is the senior senator from Nebraska. She was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2012. She can be reached in Washington D.C. at 454 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC, 20510 (202-224-6551); in Lincoln at 440 North 8th Street, Suite 120, Lincoln, NE, 68508 (402-441-4600); in Omaha at 11819 Miracle Hills Dr. Suite 205, Omaha, NE 68154 (402-391-3411). Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 This week, the Legislature will debate the largest tax increase in Nebraska history. LB 289 raises the state sales tax rate by 9%, cuts property tax relief from the state in half, imposes new taxes on a variety of services (including car and home repair), raises the cigarette tax, and increases the tax on buying a house. If youve read one of my recent columns, you may be surprised to hear that LB 289 is still under consideration. Nebraskans, from farmers to home builders, voiced overwhelming opposition to the bill when it was heard in front of the Revenue Committee less than two weeks ago. After the hearing, Senators tinkered around with the billand made it even worse! In addition to the taxes mentioned above, the revised bill also now proposes new sales taxes on 20 services including: pet-related services, moving services, storage, hair care and hair removal services, nail care, skin care, tattoos, home services and repair (including plumbing, HVAC, and electrical), interior design, taxi, limo, rideshare, lawn care, parking, swimming pool cleaning, dating, Teleflora, wedding planning, weight loss, personal training, clothing alteration, candy, pop, bottled water, car repair (including brakes, scheduled maintenance, and body repair), and ice. When debate on LB 289 starts, Nebraskans will feel a bit of deja vu: The bill is premised on the notion that Nebraska can finally get property tax relief if we raise a bunch of other taxes to lower property taxes. The truth is that this method has been tried and failed. In 1990, the Legislature passed LB 1059 which created the school aid formula known as the Tax Equity and Educational Opportunities Support Act (TEEOSA). With this bill, the Legislature raised the sales and income tax over the veto of Governor Kay Orr. School property taxes went down for two years and by the third year we were back at the same level as 1990 with more than double the spending on state aid to schools and no tax relief. Subsequent attempts to achieve property tax relief have continued to involve the TEEOSA formula. For example, in 1999, the Legislature increased state aid to schools by about $134 million, or a 21% increase. By 2001, just two years later, school property taxes set a new record high. Between 2007 and 2009, the Legislature boosted state aid another $183 million, or 19% over two years. School property taxes went up $153 million over the same period of time, setting new record highs. Every time the Legislature tries to do tax relief this way, we ended up with record high property taxes. Its why were here again trying to fix our property tax system. If Senators raise taxes yet again, we can expect the same results. We are going to end up with both higher sales taxes and higher property taxes at the end of the day. If Senators actually want to fix the problem, they need to break the seemingly endless tax-and-spend cycle. The old idea of raising revenues (increasing taxes) to provide property tax relief has failed in the past, and it will fail again. Instead, Nebraskans need the Legislature to take a fresh approach that actually controls spending within the state budget, so the state can provide direct relief, and puts limits on growth in local property taxes as well. In contrast to the Legislatures scheme to shift taxes and accelerate spending, I support property tax relief that controls spending. Each of the past five years, Ive made property tax relief my top priority. Weve increased the Property Tax Credit Relief Fund by 60%, which is good progress, but there is much more that needs to happen. This year, Ive outlined three proposals for additional relief: Increase the Property Tax Credit Relief Fund by 23%, which is $51 million each year. Create a statutory floor of $275 million in the Property Tax Credit Relief Fund. Give the people of Nebraska an opportunity to vote on a constitutional amendment to limit annual increases in local property taxes. Im also open to working with Senators on additional tax relief by controlling spending. I strongly oppose, however, squandering taxpayer money on repairs that wont actually fix our broken system. The Legislature cannot just endlessly raise state sales and income taxes every time property taxes get out of hand. Thats why this new approach of controlling spending is so critical. If they do end up raising taxes, our state will be in an even worse position in just a few years. To tell your Senator to scrap LB 289 and to start working on real and sustainable tax relief, you can find their information at www.NebraskaLegislature.gov. To contact me, you can email pete.ricketts@nebraska.gov or call 402-471-2244. Pete Ricketts is the governor of Nebraska Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Khalida Khorsand, a 35-year-old rights activist from the western Afghan city of Herat, is skeptical about Taliban claims that it has dispensed with its strict rules against girls' education and women working. The militant Islamic group made the declaration in the midst of recent peace talks with U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad aimed at bringing an end to the long U.S. military presence in Afghanistan. But Khorsand still remembers the notorious repressions under Taliban rule as a teenager in the western city of Herat when she risked the death penalty to study literature in a class disguised as a women's sewing group. "After nearly 18 years without the Taliban in power, we now see that the Taliban are coming back in Afghanistan and there haven't been big changes for women's lives -- especially in rural areas," says Khorsand, who has dedicated much of her life since 2001 to advancing women's rights in western Afghanistan. Even without the Taliban in power in Herat, Khorsand says, many hard-fought gains for women since the collapse of the Taliban regime already are under threat. She attributes that situation to what she calls "a Taliban way of thinking" by many Afghans and a proliferation of unregistered religious schools in Herat teaching "radical Islam" to as many as 50,000 young people. If the Taliban gets a role in the Afghan government as part of a peace deal, as Khorsand expects, she fears a floodgate will be opened for resurgent "radical Islamists" in Herat. "I don't know why this has been allowed to happen under the current government of Afghanistan since 2014," Khorsand laments. "They are not paying attention to the rise of fundamentalists and radical groups in Herat. "Now the city has become a safe haven for the radical groups that support the ideology of the Taliban," Khorsand says. "The fundamentalist groups in Herat are very organized and have a lot of money. They take the young people into madrasahs and teach to them the principles of the Taliban, and they are having an enormous impact on the young generation." Those groups already have gained backing from municipal authorities for an unofficial ban on live musical performances in Herat and for a ban on celebrating Valentine's Day -- with both practices being declared "unIslamic." In rural areas of Herat Province, where Khorsand worked for years to help women who are victims of domestic violence, Khorsand says she has seen disturbing signs of support for the punishments doled out by the Taliban under its strict enforcement of Islamic Shari'a law -- amputating the hands of thieves, publicly flogging people for drinking alcohol, and stoning to death those who engage in adultery. Students at Herat's madrasahs deny being radical Islamists. But they also support a return to the prohibitions and punishments of the Taliban era. "Allah says cut off the hands of a male thief and a female thief," says Jan Agha Jami, a 21-year-old at the Fakhr al-Madares madrasah in Herat. "When men and women commit adultery, whip them if they are single. If they are married, they should be stoned, and the Koran's rulings should be implemented in public. "Music concerts are absurd because they are forbidden," Jami tells RFE/RL. "Music is bad for the mind, memory, and even human psyche. When a girl performs in front of strangers, the whole society is corrupted." Reflecting on the growing popularity of such beliefs in Herat, Khorsand says "it makes no difference for women in Afghanistan if the Taliban exists or doesn't exist." "The Taliban's way of thinking about women is the way many people are thinking in Afghanistan," she says. "A lot of Afghans have traditional ways of thinking and they believe the talk of the Taliban. Unfortunately, much of their way of thinking is against the rights of women." Move Forward, Step Back To be sure, Khorsand says there have been important advances for Afghan women since 2001 -- including language in the Afghan Constitution that enshrines the right to education and to work. Women are members of parliament and can be seen on television, competing in sports, and performing in concerts in Kabul. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has refused to put a bill to a parliamentary vote that would prohibit violence against women -- despite years of domestic and international focus on the legislation. But the Afghan government since the collapse of the Taliban regime has included many conservative Islamists and former warlords whose attitudes about women are similar to the Taliban. Sima Simar, the head of Afghanistan's Independent Human Rights Commission, says the gains for women since 2001 can easily be overturned and have rarely been implemented in rural areas where most Afghans live. The 2018 Women, Peace, and Security Index by Georgetown University and the Peace Research Institute of Oslo ranks Afghanistan as the second-worst place in the world to be a woman. Only Syria was ranked worse. That study notes that only 16 percent of Afghanistan's workforce is female and that half of all Afghan women have four years or less of education. UNICEF, the United Nations children's agency, says only half of school-aged Afghan girls now go to school, and that only one out of five girls under 15 are literate. Nearly two out of three Afghan girls are married when they are teenagers or younger. On average, they are sent by their parents into arranged marriages between the ages of 15 and 16. Most imprisoned Afghan women have been jailed for so-called "morality crimes," such as leaving an abusive husband or demanding to marry a man of their own choosing. A study issued in January by UN Women and the nongovernmental gender equality group Promundo found that 80 percent of Afghan women have experienced domestic physical violence. That study found that only 15 percent of Afghan men think women should be allowed to work outside of their home after marriage, and that two-thirds of Afghan men think women already have too many rights in Afghanistan. It is in this environment that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has refused to put a bill to a parliamentary vote that would prohibit violence against women -- despite years of domestic and international focus on the legislation. Ghani has appointed only five women to a 37-member council tasked with trying to pave the way for direct peace talks between his government and the Taliban at a time when the Taliban refuses to talk directly with the Kabul government. Only 10 women were invited to be part of a 240-strong delegation for so-called "all-Afghan talks" with the Taliban, and even then, the first round of those talks was canceled over reported complaints by the Taliban over the composition of the delegation. No Happy Ending Khorsand was one of about 20 women who, under Taliban rule in Herat, regularly attended covert literature classes for girls and women at a place known as the Golden Needle sewing school. The experiences of those young women were documented in a 2002 book by Sunday Times correspondent Christina Lamb called The Sewing Circles Of Herat. Lamb tells RFE/RL that although women have fought bravely for their rights since the collapse of the Taliban regime in late 2001, many are now concerned that those gains will be lost as U.S. President Donald Trump's administration seeks a peace deal with the Taliban. "Women are very unhappy because it seems as though in the rush to get out of Afghanistan, the Trump administration has prioritized only two things: that the Taliban renounce terrorism and that they stop attacking Americans and other NATO soldiers, and not that they respect the constitution and minorities and equal rights," Lamb says. "This has left women very exposed -- which considering that women's rights had been very much part of the initial reason for removing the Taliban, it's very disappointing," Lamb says. "I'm sure that the Taliban will insist on having some share in power as part of negotiations," Lamb says. "They are saying at the moment in these negotiations that things have changed, that they will allow girls to go to school and for women to work. But who knows what the reality will be were they to actually have power again. "We certainly have seen in some areas [under Taliban control recently] women being lashed by Taliban because they're not regarded as being properly covered," Lamb says. "It's very risky and I can see why women are extremely concerned." As for the women Lamb wrote about in The Sewing Circles Of Herat, she says most have not seen a happy ending to their story after 18 years. "Sadly, those particular women who bravely met under the guise of the sewing circles and who were writing stories and poems secretly, most of them have left the country or have stopped writing because they are not happy with the situation," Lamb tells RFE/RL. "One of them, a poet called Nadia Anjuman, was actually killed by her husband because he wasn't happy about the fact that she was speaking publicly and writing about women's rights," Lamb says. In 2016, Khorsand left Afghanistan for Ottawa, Canada, where she lives with her husband and twin 14-year-old daughters and remains in regular contact with rights activists in Herat. Khorsand tells RFE/RL she went to Canada for her daughters' sake because it is her "primary duty as a mother" to ensure that they get the best education she can provide them. Once her daughters finish school, Khorsand vows to enroll in a university human rights program in Canada -- and then return to Herat "to continue the fight" for the rights of Afghan women. With reporting by RFE/RL Radio Free Afghanistan correspondent Shapoor Saber in Herat KABUL Taliban militants have attacked the offices of an international aid group in central Kabul, killing at least five people and wounding 24, officials say. Interior Ministry spokesman Nusrat Rahimi told RFE/RL that the May 8 assault began at 11:40 a.m. local time with a large explosion at the non-profit organization Counterpart International, resulting in a stand-off with Afghan security forces. Five gunmen then stormed the compound before Afghan security forces launched an hours-long clearance operation, the Interior Ministry said. It said that the siege ended hours later after all attackers were killed. Four civilians and one police officer were said to be among those killed, while about 200 people were evacuated from the area. A spokesman for the Taliban, Zabihullah Mujahid, said the aid group was targeted because it was involved in what he described as harmful Western activities inside Afghanistan and the "inter-mixing" of men and women. The attack came as Afghanistan observes the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and amid a new round of talks between the United States and the Taliban in Qatar, which aim to bring an end to the almost 18-year war in Afghanistan. Counterpart International, which as operated in Afghanistan since 2005, says it runs civic engagement projects supporting women and other marginalized groups across the country. "We are incredibly saddened by this attack and are working as quickly as possible to account for our staff," the group said in a statement. John Bass, the U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, described the attack as "senseless violence," saying that the targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists, and supports the Afghan people. Todays attack particularly deplorable, hitting civilians helping Afghans & taking place during Ramadan, the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said in a tweet. With reporting by AP, AFP, and dpa A heated debate takes place every year around Christmas time. Its not about which relatives house you should visit for the holidays, its a topic with greater importance. Its a question everyone wants to know the answer to but cant seem to agree on. Is the 1988 film Die Hard, starring Bruce Willis, a Christmas movie? You voted: Dating as far back as 6500 B.C., aromatized wines have almost always been with us. But their use as cocktails can authoritatively be traced back to Turin, Italy in the 19th century. Photo by Micah Redfield This is the eighteenth of a series of 20 profiles of The Gazettes Best and Brightest Class of 2019. After witnessing the troubles of the immigration system in El Paso, Texas, during a missionary trip with her church, Annabel Lewis is now driven to make a difference in the lives of those like the 7-year-old she met, who is seeking asylum in the United States with her family. Lewis met Scarlett and her El Salvadoran family during the summer of 2016 and learned that they have been waiting for their court hearing for more than a year. I was introduced to some of the strongest people I have ever met, and I discovered the frustrations of the immigration system, Lewis wrote in her Best and Brightest essay. This trip taught me compassion, empathy, and determination. The William J. Palmer High School senior has an impact on families in her community as a swim instructor. Through teaching children how to swim, Lewis said she makes those in her community safer. Teaching children how to be safe in the water prevents many tragedies, Lewis wrote. She plans to attend Davidson College in North Carolina to get a liberal arts education experience, and study ethical aspects of science and technology. Lewis has been a National Honor Society student and has participated in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme since 2017. Lewis will be an honor graduate from Palmer High School in May, placing in the top 10% of the class. Lewis is now driven to extend her positive impacts to families who seek asylum in the United States. After meeting Scarlett, Lewis said, she felt so much empathy for the girl and her family that she wants to do something about the struggles immigrants face. Her voice is the driving force behind her desire to make positive changes in the world, Lewis said. In March 2018, the Parkland shooting left 17 students and faculty dead. Lewis and other students participated in the nationwide walkout in honor of the lives lost to gun violence and a chance to project their concerns for safety in school. Her frustration with the families stuck in the immigration system, and the experience of the walkout in 2018 gave Lewis a chance to see the potential of her voice as a powerful tool. Using my voice more often to stand for what I believe in is a goal that I have for my future. My frustration with the immigration system allowed me to discover how I wanted to make a difference in the world, Lewis says. To make an impact on immigrant families, Lewis ponders whether positive changes can only come after negative events. Is pain, loss and struggle necessary to create real change? That question has remained with me for the past two years, and has led me to discovering my goals in life, Lewis wrote. An 18-year-old accused along with a younger accomplice of killing a classmate and wounding eight other students Tuesday at a charter school south of Denver is facing a first-degree murder charge, authorities said. Devon Erickson also is facing 29 counts of attempted murder. Erickson is being held without bond at the Douglas County Jail in Castle Rock. Both suspects made their first court appearances Wednesday and charges are expected to be filed Friday. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the two shooters had a number of weapons including two handguns. It is illegal for anyone under 21 to buy or own a handgun in Colorado. Investigators believe at least one of the suspects in the Highlands Ranch shooting took the guns from Erickson's parents without their knowledge. The youngest of the victims was 15 years old. Three of the wounded students remain in in intensive care, Spurlock said. The other five have been released from the hospital. The second suspect, a transgender 16-year-old who identifies as a male, appeared separately in court later Wednesday. The Gazette is not naming the second suspect because of his age. Search warrants have been obtained for the suspects' homes and investigators are still trying to determine a motive for the shooting. A vehicle believed to be connected to the suspects was found in the school's parking lot, Spurlock said Tuesday. Just before 2 p.m. Tuesday, two shooters walked into two separate classrooms at the school and opened fire, Spurlock said. Deputies did not exchange gunfire with the shooters and neither of the suspects was injured. One suspect was restrained by a school security guard before deputies arrived. The STEM School will be closed for the rest of the week. Security has been heightened in nearby schools. A Harrison School District 2 security guard has been fired after an altercation with a protester during a contentious town hall Saturday with Gov. Jared Polis, according to a statement from the district. The civilian security guard was captured on video yanking a grandmother to the floor as she began yelling Recall and lifted a scarf with Recall Polis after the governor had left the stage. After an internal investigation, the district says, the guard is, no longer employed by the district. Officials would not comment further because it is a personnel matter. The district also decided to require community partners to provide security for political events, said a statement released Tuesday. LaDonna Robertson, a Colorado Springs activist who supports a recall of the governor, was toppled by the security guard at Sierra High School. She recounted the incident on the Richard Randall KVOR radio talk show Monday. After the town hall had concluded and Polis left the stage, she said, she and others began shouting Recall. A man in front of her turned around and, to avoid being spit on, Robertson said, she held over her face a bright green piece of material on which she had painted Recall Polis and the movements logo. The next thing I knew, I was on the floor, she said. The guard, with the word Security on his shirt, pulled her by one arm while a man nearby repeatedly said, She has freedom of speech, sir. Robertson was dragged to the floor, across the lap of her 10-year-old granddaughter, who she said was upset by the incident and started crying. It was so uncalled for, the grandmother said. Some people booed and yelled Liar during the town hall, which included audience questions about controversial legislation, including teaching students about sexual consent and expanding sex education. Robertson said she has a sprained wrist and bruises from being dragged. I knew theyd shut us down if we started saying anything during the event, she said. I held my tongue until it was over. While everyone is clapping, we should be able to yell Recall. Thats our First Amendment right. Regardless of whether there were rules about holding signs, the actions of the security guard were excessive and unjustified, said Mark Silverstein, legal director of the ACLU of Colorado, after watching the video. In the video, Robertson tells the guard she had back surgery Wednesday and has internal stitches. She grabs at her back while trying to get to her feet. The guard asks if she wants him to call for medical help. To view the video, see gazette.com. Robertson said she called organizers to find out if signs were allowed at the town hall, where Polis talked about full-day kindergarten funding and other legislation he called for during the legislative session that ended Friday. She said she was told cardboard signs were banned, so she wrote Recall Polis on a piece of fabric, similar to a scarf. People wearing T-shirts that said The governor is an idiot werent treated the way she was, Robertson said. The protesters acted independently; they werent organized by the El Paso County Republican Party, party Chairwoman Tamra Farah said. A student was killed and eight more wounded in a shooting Tuesday at a K-12 charter school south of Denver, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office reported. The student slain was an 18-year-old man, and several of the other injured students were in critical condition after the shootings at STEM School Highlands Ranch, Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. Devon Erickson, 18, and a boy, both students at STEM, were arrested in the shootings, Spurlock said. They "got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations," he said. He declined to identify the younger suspect but said, "We did not have them on any radar that we know of." About two minutes after the shooting was reported at 1:53 p.m., the first deputies arrived and "engaged the suspects," he said. "I have to believe that the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives." At 2:04 p.m., the Sheriff's Office tweeted about an "unstable situation" at the school at 8773 S. Ridgeline Blvd. and asked people to avoid the area. A suspect vehicle was "being contained in the parking lot," and authorities were working to get search warrants for the vehicle and the suspects' houses, Spurlock said. "We do know that we do not have any other suspects. We have all the people that are involved. So we're slowing everything down, and we're going to try to focus on processing that crime scene, taking care of those who are injured and investigating this case ... " he said. Diego Palmer, 13, told The Denver Post he was in study hall in the cafeteria when students ran through the door yelling, "School shooting! School shooting! Get out now!" He said he wasn't sure it was real but didn't want to risk it, so he ran outside with other students to a nearby brewery, where his mother picked him up. "It was so scary," he told The Post. The shooting happened less than 10 miles from Columbine High School in Jefferson County, where 12 students and a teacher were gunned down April 20, 1999. More than 20 others were wounded, and the two gunmen died of self-inflicted gunshot wounds. Just days before the 20-year anniversary of that massacre, an 18-year-old woman from Miami flew to Denver, bought a shotgun and allegedly threatened Denver-area schools, sparking panic. She was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in Clear Creek County after a nearly 24-hour manhunt. Colorado has seen three other school shootings since Columbine, The Denver Post reported: A male student armed with a machete, three Molotov cocktails, a pump-action shotgun and more than 125 rounds of ammunition entered Arapahoe High School in Centennial on Dec. 13, 2013, apparently intending to intending to track down a librarian who had disciplined him. Instead, he killed a fellow student before setting fire to the library and turning the gun on himself. Two eighth-grade students were wounded by a gunman Feb. 23, 2010, in the parking lot of Deer Creek Middle School in Littleton. The suspected shooter was found not guilty by reason of insanity and sent to the Colorado Mental Health Institute in Pueblo. A teenage girl was killed at Platte Canyon High School in Bailey on Sept. 27, 2006. A gunman took her and other female students hostage and sexually assaulted them. The gunman died of a self-inflicted gunshot. STEM School parents were asked Tuesday to go to Northridge Recreation Center, 8800 S. Broadway in Highlands Ranch, to reunite with their children after the shootings. "We know that there are 1,800 kids that go to that school, and we are frantically trying to identify every one of those and making sure that we can connect them to their parents," Spurlock said. "That's going to take a little bit of time." Preeti Grover told The Post that her 12-year-old son, Vivaan Kalura, sent her three alarming texts at 1:59 p.m. "THERE IS A SHOOTING AT SHOOL (sic)." "IM FING SCARED." "TWO KIDS HAVE BEEN SHOT." At first, she told The Post, she thought he was referring to a shooting at a different school. But then the messages continued. "IM CRYING. I SWEAR TO GOD THIS IS NO JOKE." Vivaan was in his math classroom when he heard a thud, then two gunshots in what seemed to be the next classroom over, The Post reported. He and his classmates huddled under tables in the back of the room, as his teacher told them to stay calm. Police came to escort the children out, and Vivaan said they were told to keep their hands on their heads and walked past blood in the hallway, The Post reported. After receiving the texts, Grover raced to the school, where her 8-year-old son also is a student, then joined hundreds of parents at the recreation center. The STEM School was placed on lockdown, meaning no one could enter or leave. And other Douglas County School District schools temporarily were placed on lockout, so no one could enter, "due to law enforcement activity in the area," the district said in a statement. All after-school activities and programs were canceled. "Highlands Ranch families, most of our buses are being used to transport STEM students," the district tweeted at 4:08 p.m. "If at all possible, please pick up your students from other HR schools as we do not know when we will be able to get buses out to those schools." Gov. Jared Polis tweeted: "We are making all of our public safety resources available to assist the Douglas County Sheriff's Department in their effort to secure the site and evacuate the students. We are monitoring the situation in real time. The heart of all Colorado is with the victims & their families." The "innovative, free, public, charter learning community" has more than 1,850 students, its website says 550 in elementary school, 700 in middle school and 600 in high school. The school has private security but no school resource officer, Spurlock said. Superintendent Karen Brofft reads to students at Lewis-Palmer Elementary School. Brofft will retire after this school year. Recent discussions around Democratic presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke have centered around his viability or supposed lack thereof. A Daily Beast article from a week ago bluntly stated: "Beto Blew It." At the same time, staffers for O'Rourke point to a recent CNN poll that had the three-term former Congressman defeating President Donald Trump in a hypothetical matchup by 10 points (52%-42%). And while former-Vice President Joe Biden is currently eating up a lot of oxygen in the race, a candidate such as O'Rourke has continued to stay pat at 5% in polls. O'Rourke raced past all of that as he rolled up the sleeves on his button-down blue shirt to talk to folks at Fat Hill Brewing in Mason City on Wednesday. Though rain and 40-degree temperatures likely kept some North Iowans away, O'Rourke's campaign stop had similar attendance to Sen. Elizabeth Warren's from the weekend. For nearly an hour, the crowd of 100-plus gathered to hear O'Rourke talk about climate change, what U.S. immigrants have to offer and the need for Americans to work together. O'Rourke, who speaks at a brisk, slightly-raspy tone, touted his experience living in the bi-national community of El Paso, Texas-Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, as something that makes both him and his community stronger. He mentioned undocumented immigrants early in his town hall and said that if those who had made a 2,000-mile journey from Latin America to the United States were sent back, it would be a loss. "Their success will not benefit Mason City or Iowa or the United States," O'Rourke said. And he went further to urge that more responsive pathways to citizenship be opened up. "Imagine what they could do if they were able to contribute to their full potential," he said. However, he devoted a smidgen more of his time to climate change and what he hopes to do to mitigate some of its more disastrous effects. In late April, O'Rourke announced that, if elected, he would spend $5 trillion on clean-energy research, green infrastructure and extreme-weather preparations. The plan included targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and get to net-zero by 2050. "(It) cannot be the proposal of one candidate," O'Rourke said. "It will take all of us coming together." O'Rourke pointed to the recent flooding in Iowa referring to the consequences of failing to act on the issue as well as the prolonged, six-year drought that ran from 2011 through 2017 in California. "The loss of property and human life is incontrovertible proof that climate change is here and it is happening to us," O'Rourke said. Still O'Rourke's climate change plan, as it currently stands, has been scrutinized by Republicans and Democrats. After the event, O'Rourke shared that he wasn't worried about negotiating specific details related to his plan or getting too in the weeds. "We seek to be as bold and ambitious as we can be," O'Rourke said while also arguing that states such as Iowa, which benefit from alternative energy sources such as wind, can be leaders on the issue. Those who showed up to ask questions or sit and listen didn't have much time for punditry concerning O'Rourke's "electability" either. The attendees who came from nearby Clear Lake, Northwood, Osage and St. Ansgar, as well as Mason City, were more concerned with issues such as campaign finance reform and health care. Regarding healthcare, Ric Jacobs expressed concern about losing healthcare because he has a pre-existing condition. O'Rourke tried to allay such worries by assuring the crowd that his presidency would guarantee health care to every single American and include coverage for mental health care. When the issue of disappearing farms came up, O'Rourke found a way to tie it back to climate change and said that farmers need to be given the opportunity to grow in more environmentally friendly ways. Lonna Van Horn, a Northwood resident, said her primary issue was the environment. She said that she was worried about President Trump alienating allies and that she would "Support a remorseful axe murderer over Donald Trump," a statement echoed on the sign she wore to the event. That's as close as anyone came to "electability" talk. No one, at this point, expressed a strong and abiding preference for one candidate in the crowded Democratic field. They said they'd support whoever the party eventually nominated. Larissa Webber from Osage laid out it as such: "The top priority is whoever could beat Trump." Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Beijings Bank Bailout Better Be Bold To revive growth, China needs to take potentially painful steps to reform its interest-rate system By Nathaniel Taplin The International Monetary Fund in 2017 estimated that a severe downturn could punch a hole in Chinese banks balance sheets equal to about 2.5% of gross domestic product. Photo: SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg News The cash needed to patch the holes in Chinese banks balance sheets probably isnt far from the half-trillion-dollar U.S. government bank bailout after the financial crisis. But that staggering sum alone may be only the beginning of the pain. Beijings half-hearted fixes since Chinas deep downturn in 2015 have helped stave off an immediate financial crisis, but they severely damaged the dynamic private companies that drive growth. Whats really needed is far harder: overhauling a dysfunctional interest-rate system that breeds inefficiency. That risks large-scale layoffs or social unrest, but failure to act could derail Chinas ambitions to become a tech powerhouse and would spill over into the world economy. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Goodbye EU, and goodbye the United Kingdom The invented identity of Britishness is unravelling as English nationalism takes hold Philip Stephens During the spring of 1975 the Wall Street Journal ran a powerful headline. Goodbye Great Britain, the American business newspaper declared. The UK was known as the sick man of Europe. Investors were taking flight in the face of its ruinous economic performance and endemic industrial strife. Greatness had made way for spiralling decline. The prediction proved premature. Britain was bailed out by the International Monetary Fund and subsequently saved by North Sea oil and, some would say, by Margaret Thatchers economic revolution. In any event, a decade later Thatcher was dancing on the world stage with US president Ronald Reagan. Britain faces another existential moment. The Brexit story was supposed to be about leaving the EU. It has turned into a runaway national crisis. The forces driving Brexit look set to sweep away much more than the institutional machinery, economic relationships and political ties created during decades of EU membership. Goodbye to Brussels is shaping up as the first act in a two-part drama. The second may well wave goodbye to the UK. The other day I listened to Mervyn King say that the government should dispense with further talks with Brussels and opt for a no-deal Brexit, albeit after a six-month period of preparation. The costs, the former Bank of England governor said, would be manageable and temporary. Given Lord Kings complacency about the stability of financial markets before the 2008 crash, many will discount his economic judgment. What struck me, however, was his insistence that Brexit was really about identity and culture. Though he sits on the opposite side of the European debate, the former Conservative chancellor Kenneth Clarke agrees. The impetus for Brexit, Mr Clarke says, comes from a resurgence of the rightwing English nationalist wing of his party. The project reflects a strain of Conservatism that has never come to terms with the loss of empire. Leaving the EU Independence Day, the Brexiters call it is rooted as much in nostalgia as in the populist revolt against elites and outsiders that has supplied the European debate with such visceral anger. Hence the Brexiters fantasy of a new Global Britain and the ubiquitous allusions to the second world war and Winston Churchills readiness to stand alone. The bluster conceals a cry of pain. Brexit is an English rather than a British enterprise. More specifically, it belongs overwhelmingly to provincial England. With the exception of Birmingham, the nations great cities London, Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle among them were on the side of Remain. They were outvoted by Leavers in smaller English cities and towns and in rural areas. Scotland backed Remain by a large margin. Pace the Brexiters of the Democratic Unionist party, Northern Ireland voted for continued EU membership. Wales followed England out. Scotland voted in 2014 to stay in the union of the UK. It is hard to imagine it would do the same in another referendum. Five years ago, unionism offered proud Scots two supplementary identities. They could be at once British and European. After Brexit it will be either/or. The 1707 union with England handed Scotland an international role as a partner in empire. Outside of the EU it will be cut off from the rest of Europe. Theresa Mays government insists that powers returned from Brussels will be hoarded at Westminster rather than shared with the Edinburgh parliament and other devolved administrations. The prime minister wants sharply to reduce immigration. Scotland wants more newcomers to oil the wheels of the economy. Why would that nation, with a political culture steeped in social market centrism, shackle itself to the rule of English nationalists? Nor can Northern Irelands place in the UK any longer be taken for granted. The DUP has made a great fuss about ensuring that a settlement with the EU27 does not differentiate between the province and the rest of the UK. But their hostility to the EU is a minority position in Northern Ireland itself. Nothing has done so much as Brexit to reopen the question of Irish unification. Britishness is an invented identity. It is deliberately expansive, calculated during the 19th century to cast empire as a joint project of the four nations of the UK. More recently, as the empire came home, it has provided a welcoming mantle for immigrants from former imperial outposts. British citizens of overseas heritage overwhelmingly identify as, well, British. Allegiance to England is seen predominantly as the property of the nations white communities. The Leave side understood this during the 2016 referendum. It made two promises: to spend more money on the National Health Service and to shut out an (entirely imagined) influx of migrants from Turkey. Better to spend money on the health service, the less than subtle message ran, than see hospitals overrun by foreigners. The distance between such sentiments and the overt racism of extremists such as the English Defence League is perilously short. To watch Britains descent into chaos in recent times has been to see the threads of Britishness, woven over centuries, unravel. Identity politics has elbowed aside common purpose. The tears in the fabric run alongside borders and within them. It is hard to imagine how they can be repaired. Winning the War on Poverty The Canadians are doing it; were not. By David Brooks Apartments in Memphis. According to recently released data, Americans could learn from Canada a better way to address poverty.CreditCreditDamon Winter/The New York Times Jesus said the poor will always be among us, but there are a lot of people in Canada testing that proposition. According to recently released data, between 2015 and 2017, Canada reduced its official poverty rate by at least 20 percent. Roughly 825,000 Canadians were lifted out of poverty in those years, giving the country today its lowest poverty rate in history. How did it do it? The overall economy has been decent but not robust enough to explain these striking outcomes. Instead, one major factor is that Canadians have organized their communities differently. They adopted a specific methodology to fight poverty. Before I describe this methodology, lets pause to think about what its often like in American poor areas. Everything is fragmented. There are usually a bevy of public and private programs doing their own thing. In a town there may be four food pantries, which dont really know one another well. The people working in these programs have their heads down, because its exhausting enough just to do their own work. A common model is one-donor-funding-one-program. Different programs compete for funds. They justify their existence using randomized controlled experiments, in which researchers try to pinpoint one input that led to one positive output. The foundation heads, city officials and social entrepreneurs go to a bunch of conferences, but these conferences dont have much to do with one another. In other words, the Americans who talk about community dont have a community of their own. Every day, they give away the power they could have if they did mutually reinforcing work together to change whole systems. In Canada its not like that. About 15 years ago, a disparate group of Canadians realized that a problem as complex as poverty can be addressed only through a multisector comprehensive approach. They realized that poverty was not going to be reduced by some innovation some cool, new program nobody thought of before. It was going to be addressed through better systems that were mutually supporting and able to enact change on a population level. So they began building citywide and communitywide structures. They started 15 years ago with just six cities, but now they have 72 regional networks covering 344 towns. They begin by gathering, say, 100 people from a single community. A quarter have lived with poverty; the rest are from business, nonprofits and government. They spend a year learning about poverty in their area, talking with the community. They launch a different kind of conversation. First, they dont want better poor; they want fewer poor. That is to say, their focus is not on how do we give poor people food so they dont starve. It is how do we move people out of poverty. Second, they up their ambitions. How do we eradicate poverty altogether? Third, they broaden their vision. What does a vibrant community look like in which everybodys basic needs are met. After a year they come up with a town plan. Each towns poverty is different. Each towns assets are different. So each towns plan is different. The town plans feature a lot of collaborative activity. A food pantry might turn itself into a job training center by allowing the people who are fed do the actual work. The pantry might connect with local businesses that change their hiring practices so that high school degrees are not required. Businesses might pledge to raise their minimum wage. The plans involve a lot of policy changes on the town and provincial levels improved day care, redesigned transit systems, better work-force development systems. By the time Canadas national government swung into action, the whole country had a base of knowledge and experience. The people in the field had a wealth of connections and a sense of what needed to be done. The two biggest changes were efforts in city after city to raise the minimum wage and the expansion of a national child benefit, which can net a family up to nearly $6,500 a year per child. Canada essentially has guaranteed income for the young and the old. The process of learning and planning and adapting never ends. The Tamarack Institute, which pioneered a lot of this work, serves as a learning community hub for all the different regional networks. Paul Born, the head of the institute, emphasizes that the crucial thing these communitywide collective impact structures do is change attitudes. In the beginning its as if everybody is swimming in polluted water. People are sluggish, fearful, isolated, looking out only for themselves. But when people start working together across sectors around a common agenda, its like cleaning the water. Communities realize they can do more for the poor. The poor realize they can do more for themselves. New power has been created, a new sense of agency. Born doesnt think you can really do social change without a methodology, without creating communitywide collective impact structures. But in many American communities were mostly scattershot. Thats the problem with our distrust and polarization. We often dont build structures across difference. Transformational change rarely gets done. David Brooks has been a columnist with The Times since 2003. He is the author of The Road to Character and the forthcoming book, The Second Mountain. Haifa is on the "front line" in any action in the north but this blog looks at life in the shadow of danger to all of Israel On Saturday, Helena College's 2019 commencement ceremony will feature speaker Dalton Johnson, a former Helena College student who represents university students on the Montana Board of Regents. Johnson is a first generation nontraditional college student. He graduated from Helena College in 2018 and is now a student at the University of Montana. Last year Johnson was appointed to the Montana Board of Regents by Gov. Steve Bullock. There he acts as a representative for 44,000 students in Montana's university system. While attending Helena College, Johnson served as the vice president of the Associated Students of Helena College and the vice president of external affairs for the Montana Associated Students. The ceremony is set to take place Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m. It will be held at the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds exhibit hall and 243 students will graduate. Of those students, 215 will receive associate degrees and 60 will receive certificates. Additionally, 29 graduates in the Access to Success program will receive their high school diploma through a partnership with Helena Public Schools. The day prior, May 10, the college's annual pinning ceremony for registered nurse graduates will take place at St. Mary's Catholic Community church at 2 p.m. A pinning ceremony is a symbolic welcoming of newly graduated nurses into the profession where they will be presented with pins and often recite the Nightingale Pledge, a modified version of a doctor's "Hippocratic Oath," named for Florence Nightingale. Sixteen newly graduated nurses will be honored by the nursing faculty and Helena College staff. A reception will be held in the student center at Helena College following the pinning ceremony. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Lewis and Clark County officials said Tuesday that they are aware of almost 60 residents showing symptoms of norovirus, commonly known as stomach flu, and urged residents to take precautions to avoid getting sick. Laurel Riek, supervisor of the Lewis and Clark Public Healths Licensed Establishment Program, stated in a Tuesday press release that 14 lab-confirmed cases and 12 hospitalizations had been reported in the past week. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which classifies norovirus as "very contagious," advises thorough hand washing, disinfection of surfaces and clothing and proper food safety to avoid infection, including not preparing food for at least two days after symptoms cease. Diarrhea and vomiting are among the most common symptoms of the virus, according to the CDC, which makes proper hydration crucial for those infected. The CDC estimates that norovirus leads to 56,000 to 71,000 hospitalizations and 570 to 800 deaths each year in the United States, mostly children and the elderly. The increasing number of cases led St. Peters Health to begin restricting visitation at its Regional Medical Center this past weekend. At 11:45 a.m. Friday, the hospital blocked access to anyone exhibiting diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fever and body aches unless they were seeking care. No one trying to visit a patient on the hospitals medical and surgical floor can do so unless the patient is receiving end-of-life care. By Monday morning, according to public relations specialist Katie Gallagher, the hospital was dealing with seven cases of norovirus with another still pending. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 7 Angry 4 Helena Spring Art Walk is celebrating its 28 years from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 10. This is an annual event dedicated to displaying Helenas finest artists hosted by downtown businesses. This event brings businesses, local artists, and the Helena community together to experience a variety of art in unique venues throughout downtown. There will be free food and beverages, live music and door prizes at select locations. Here is a list of all participating artists and venues: Neill Avenue Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis Helena Branch 100 Neill Ave. Through nature-inspired painting and sculpture, Tim Holmes illustrates the inner material beneath politics and personality that imbues everyday life with passionate richness. Front Street and Great Northern Town Center The Brewhouse 939 Getchell St. Nicole Woody, contemporary artist inspired by dogs, wildlife, literature and music. Tiffany Yetter, fifth-generation Montanan and self-taught artist. Kitty Brown, photographer, cookie baker, dog-treat maker. The Lewis and Clark Humane Society, committed to caring for the well-being of lost and abandoned pets, will bring some furry friends. Stop by to enjoy art and make some new friends. Last Chance Gulch (Lyndale to 6th Avenue) Mountain Sage Gallery 433 N. Last Chance Gulch Mountain Sage Gallery displays a variety of art produced by some of the finest artists Helena has to offer. Aunt Bonnie's Book and Gifts 419 N. Last Chance Gulch Louise Ogemahgeshig Fischer is an American Indian artist showing old, free-handed plasma cut metal works. Similar to drawing with pencil and paper. Jodi Marcum is a Native American and native Helenan artist, focusing in pencil portraits. Boxwoods 426 N. Last Chance Gulch Nikki Campbell, artist behind NikkiBean Designs, draws inspiration from natural elements and infuses the meaning of each piece into her beautiful jewelry. Colleen Rogan's art is a faith journey where she lets the paint take the lead. Kate Runnall's has been a watercolor artist for over 20 years. Beargrass Trading Co. 417 N. Last Chance Gulch Sara Fleming, an artist inspired by growing up in the mountains of Montana and living life in Yellowstone National Park. Mosaic Architecture 428 N. Last Chance Gulch Artists from the Clay Arts Guild of Helena, a non-profit community group made up of clay enthusiasts of all skill levels, will have beautiful creations for sale. There will be a special fundraising sale to benefit an expanding project at the Guild. JMACS Pottery 411 N. Last Chance Gulch Visit with resident artists Jeremy McFarlane, Joshua Reeder, David Fortner, and Jolene Hendrix Bert & Ernie's 361 N. Last Chance Gulch Landscape artist Tom Morgan and photographer Bob Farrar. Cobblestone Clothing Co. 337 N. Last Chance Gulch Sarah Ludtke-Heagle's artwork is inspired by nature. Courtney Schuele uses locally sourced aspen and walnut for unique and beautiful serving boards. Golden Leaf Gallery 314 N. Last Chance Gulch Contemporary artists Quang Ho, Scott Burdick, Dan McCaw and Dan Garhartz. The Community 109 6th Ave. Emily Nelson is an amazing wood artist creating unique one-of-a-kind art pieces, tables and barn doors and more. LaPa Grill 32 W. 6th Ave. Fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters with works of art by kids from Helena. Half of the arts sale price goes to the child-artist with the other half going to BBBS. Reach Higher Montana 40 W. 6th Ave. On display will be art from Helena High, Capital High, Project for Alternative Learning, Broadwater High, and Jefferson High Schools. Mediums include watercolor, acrylic, sculpture, mixed media, wood, metal, and more Suki Cafe 11 W. 6th Ave. The Helena Photographic Society will be hosting eight photographers. Downtown Walking Mall Imagine Jewelry and Gifts 62 N. Last Chance Gulch Rebecca Wells, acrylic painter whose work ranges from detailed landscapes, wildlife scenery, realistic pets portraiture, and bold, vivid abstract art. Bobbi deMontigny adds a little dysfunction to functional pottery by combining expressive illustrations with hand thrown locally sourced stoneware. Arcade Building 111 N. Last Chance Gulch Sandra (AKA Sequoia Rising) is an encaustic (hot wax), mix media artist. She also has work using acrylic mix media, ink dyes on mineral paper and more. Big Dipper Ice Cream 58 N. Last Chance Gulch Cory Krings creates intricately detailed hand- cut snowflakes depicting a variety of scenes and themes, from pop culture, nature, and business logos. The Hawthorn Bottle Shop & Tasting Room 46 N. Last Chance Gulch While you are downtown enjoying the Art Walk stop by The Hawthorn, meet friends, have a drink, and toast Helenas incredible community of artists. Ten Mile Creek Brewery 48 N. Last Chance Gulch Grab a pint and hang out with Kevin League, Amanda Grant, and Davis Goodson as they each showcase their unique art art styles. Luminous landscapes shine in Helena's Spring Art Walk photo exhibit Sometimes its the extraordinary in the ordinary -- an early morning burst of balsamroot in full bloom. The Lotus 40 N. Last Chance Gulch Art in Motion at The Lotus with free Yoga Flow from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Free OULA from 6:45 to 7:30 p.m. All are welcome, no experience needed. The Double Tree by Hilton 22 N. Last Chance Gulch Dick Smiths photos of nature and wilderness in their natural habitat. Bird & Beasleys 2 S. Last Chance Gulch Sample Montana-made treats and visit with Montana Wild's educational birds. Free balloon art by The Balloon Man. Pan Handler 21 S. Last Chance Gulch Metal artist Colton Schluter. Wildflower Craft Boutique 38 S. Last Chance Gulch Live Life Clothing Co. will be in the store displaying their clothing. Ghost Art Gallery 21 S. Last Chance Gulch Carol Zirkle is an oil painter whose artwork highlights the best of rural Montana. Lewis & Clark Library 120 S. Last Chance Gulch Kallie Audet paints rich and striking Montana landscapes from her home in Townsend. Cadin Tate at 12 years old, he has a way of capturing moments through photography. He focuses on wildlife of the world, nature and landscapes. Aizada Imports 46 S. Last Chance Gulch Virginia Niccolucci is a jewelry artist from Helena, Montana. The Unpredictables, local husband and wife musical duo Adelle and Jeremy Terry, will be playing live in the store. The Base Camp 5 W. Broadway Come shop #FINDJOY at The Base Camp as we share our story through photography, conversation and apparel. Ahmann Brothers Real Estate 104 E. Broadway St., Ste. 1 Lisa Ernst's functional porcelain contains strong influences from Japan folk craft tradition and classical European forms, with a gestural watercolor style of design work. Park Avenue Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 50 S. Park Ebbie Hansen is a Helena-based photographer and design artist. The Myrna Loy 15 N. Ewing Andy White's exhibit is a visual love affair with the landscapes and sights of Montana. Judy Paton and Valerie Hellermann will sell small works to benefit Hands on Global, a powerhouse little organization in Helena that takes medical services to some of the world's most troubled refugee camps. Sage & Oats Trading Post 330 N. Jackson St. Shirley Robinett creates whimsical collages by overlaying painted paper or recycle paintings into layered images, adding a variety of materials to adorn each image. Visual Artist Kae Cheatham has worked with photography and digital art for more than 25 years. Helena resident Warren Duffield became interested in mountain dulcimers and tried his hand at playing and then creating these music box instruments. Youth artist, Kyra Robinson, has been featured in the Holter Youth Electrum 2018 and 2019 for her fan art and graphic illustration. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 She's in Missoula for some flight certification but for Kathryn Burnham there's more to it. She's fanning the flames of love. "It's gorgeous," the veteran pilot from East Yorkshire, England, said Monday. Burnham cast an adoring eye at a particularly famous local Douglas DC-3/C-47 parked outside the hangar at the Museum of Mountain Flying in Missoula. The Brits call them Dakotas, or "Daks" for short, and 35 to 40 of them will be the focus of Daks Over Normandy next month in Britain and France. More than 2 million people, including veterans and world leaders, are expected for the June event. It marks the 75th anniversary of D-Day and the Allied invasion that led to the liberation of Europe. Missoula and Montana are contributing the pilots, mechanics and paratroopers of "Miss Montana," the object of Burnham's immediate affection. "It means so much to people," she said. "You can't understand how a machine can do that, but it absolutely can. It's got a soul, more so than any other airplane that I've come across." Burnham has been flying Daks in the United Kingdom for more than half her life, and recently renewed her license to fly them there. In a saga with so many twists and turns, she flew from England over the weekend to get her American certification so she can take an American airplane to England and on to France for Daks Over Normandy. That plane won't be Miss Montana, whose pool of pilots is being fleshed out this week at the Missoula airport under the watchful eye of Frank Moss. A legend in the Douglas DC community, Moss is doing his training on the flying museums latest acquisition, a 1941 Western Airlines DC-3 with a World War II and Montana history of its own. The airplane operated through Great Falls into Alaska to support the Aleutian campaign until after the war, when Western refitted it to serve a commercial route from Salt Lake City to Butte, Helena and Great Falls. Purchased in Arkansas in March, the Western aircraft spent the last five weeks in Oregon helping pilots from across the nation get ready for the D-Day commemoration. It arrived at its new home in Missoula last Friday and has been making training runs ever since as mechanics continue to work through electrical issues to get Miss Montana airworthy. The latter is still scheduled to leave next Monday, May 13, to join the rest of the D-Day Squadron in Oxford, Connecticut, although organizers caution the schedule is flexible until it's due into England in early June. Burnham will be flying a 1939 Douglas DC-3 out of San Francisco. Hap-Penstance was a VIP transport for Henry Hap Arnold, who trained under the Wright brothers and wound up a four-star general and commander of the U.S. Army Air Force during WWII. The number of D-Day veterans is diminishing, and the 75th anniversary is viewed as the last worldwide commemoration of the largest amphibious assault in world history. The allure and the spotlight it's casting on the DC-3s was too much for Burnham to resist. I am never going to see the like again, she said. Ive never seen that many (Daks) in one go. The most Ive seen is nine, and that was such an impressive sight. Burnham said shell never forget watching those DC-3s taxiing together on a quiet morning just after dawn. It just gave you a lump in the throat, she said. The airplanes all have history. They all can tell you a story. You could not be in awe over something like that, could you? For Britons, World War II is totally immediate, Burnham said. Its not that long ago, and the place is a place you know, she said. They walk past these airfields every day. They fly over them." It never ceases to amaze her how many airfields were built for the war effort, "particularly where the 8th Air Force is concerned," she said. "I was on the east coast. Every two or three miles is an airfield. Most of Englands airports today are modernized airfields from wartime. Patterns from abandoned airfields remain visible on the landscape. Burnhams father was a boy living on England's east coast during the war. She said he watched aircraft practice for the D-Day air invasion. Theyd form up over the UK, so he was used to seeing the Lancasters and the Mustangs based not far away, with the 8th Air Force just down the road with the B-17s. So hed seen all of those as a kid. Here, just one generation removed, makes it very real. Burnham was in her late 20s or early 30s, with 10 years of pilot instructing under her belt, when she decided shed indulge in a year of flying Dakotas. After that I thought I should be sensible and join the airlines and get a proper job, she said. I was there 30 years to the week. It was only when the company folded that I left. But I still fly their airplanes. For the past couple of years shes been head of pilot training for an air freight company at East Midlands Airport. Its near Nottingham, if that helps, Burnham offered. East Midlands is 120 miles north of London and roughly 100 miles northwest of Duxford. Duxford field is where the D-Day Squadron will join others from across Europe in late May. They'll launch airdrops of some 300 parachutists over England on June 4. The next day the entire squadron will head across the English Channel for the Normandy jumps. The Indian Air Force bought a Dakota in anticipation of the historic flight. They rang and asked would I go and teach them how to fly. So I did, she said. She had a whale of a time for two weeks in New Delhi. What made it special was the airplane itself. She was very happy out there. You could tell she was having a really nice time, Burnham said, turning toward the nose of Miss Montana parked across the way. You look at them when they sit and you tell me that isnt a smile, she said. Thats a happy old airplane. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 May 6 The Helena Police Department responded to 73 calls for service. Of those calls, they responded to five vehicle crashes, eight welfare checks, two trespassing complaints and six suspicious circumstance calls. As of Tuesday morning, the county jail held 101 inmates (91 for felonies and 10 for misdemeanors). In total, the county has 118 inmates at various detention facilities. One-hundred-two clients are serviced by the 24/7 sobriety program. Of these, 53 are on PBT (Personal Breath Test), 31 are on SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor bracelet), four are on GPS, and 14 are on house arrest. Pretrial Services is currently working with 293 clients. To the Montana Department of Environmental Quality: We believe the mine proposed by Tintina on the Sheep Creek drainage will cause an unacceptable risk to a Montana treasure, the Smith River State Park. The Smith River State Park has legendary status among Montanans as the only river in this amazing state to require a lottery, permit, and strict usage regulation for those very few lucky enough to win the opportunity to float its waters. Ask any trout enthusiast if they would rather fish - Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, or the Smith River State Park, and they would likely be as excited about the Smith as the federally protected lands that have national protected status. A float down the Smith River is an extremely high quality environmental experience. It's a rare place, unique in the continental United States. Among outdoors people it is legendary, deserving of protections offered by National Parks. We are asking the review of the Tintina EIS to reflect the importance of this extremely valuable Montana resource, which is a legendary Montana Treasure. Standards should be established to ensure that no temporary, private company can endanger this environmentally pristine resource. As Montana citizens, we are charging you, the Department of Environmental Quality, to value Smith River State Park as we do. It is far more valuable than a temporary copper grab by a foreign corporation. We also have many specific questions we would like you to respond to about the history of mining permit application by the Department of Environmental Quality, the mining proposal company, and their proposed methods. Here are a few: 1. Despite assurances the Department of Environmental Quality offered years ago about the Zortmund Landusky mine, Montanans got stuck with the toxic aftermath of this mine and we inherited millions of dollars worth of perpetual cleanup costs. A. How much have the taxpayers paid in reclamation costs since this company declared bankruptcy and passed its cleanup responsibilities to Montana taxpayers? B. How much will the Montana annual reclamation expenses cost Montana taxpayers to pay for these broken corporate promises? C. How long will Montana taxpayers continue to bear these expenses? D. How much did the Pegasus Mining Company contribute to cleanup after the mines closed? E. What assurances can you give Montana taxpayers BEFORE the company has an opportunity to mine this will not happen again? F. Will bonding be sufficient to cover the perpetual water treatment that may be necessary? 2. History with mining in Montana is bad enough that DEQ should automatically vet all applicants, owners, and management teams. Sandfire has gone through leadership and company name changes during the application process that are significant. A. How much research has DEQ conducted in to the upper management of Sandfire? B. Have any of them been involved in mining activities in places other than Montana that have left behind unacceptable levels of contamination and liability? C. If the answer to B. above is yes, does DEQ intend to invoke the "Bad Actor" rule against them? D. How does DEQ enforce anything on a company that declares bankruptcy, and-or, changes its identity multiple times and continues to do business as usual? 3. Blasting activity used in the mining process could create major cracks in bedrock that potentially becomes new pathways for contaminants to flow into groundwater. A. How can you assure us that nitrates from the blasts and other mining waste by-products will not affect the water quality and all living things that depend upon the pristine waters of the Smith River and its tributaries? 4. Tintina has proposed entombing tailing waste. A. Is the cement paste used to do this going to last forever? B. Will the acidic wastes corrode the cement paste, and if so, how long will this take and what contingency steps is the DEQ requiring of the company? C. What guarantees can you offer us that the acidic waters from the mine wastes will not enter groundwater in our lifetime or that of our decedents? 5. The public review process for such a major proposal is extremely short. A. Why does a private foreign-owned company like Sandfire get to dictate how long Montana citizens get to review the environmental impact of their enormous mining proposal? B. What assurances can you give us that with these important decisions made by people who will profit from it, are fairly made, when it appears the company is making many of the process decisions regarding this permit? Isn't that a conflict of interest? The people who have signed this letter are in full agreement with its contents. They request a personal response from the Department of Environmental Quality to the questions posed in this letter. Thank you for representing Montana citizens in this most important environmental debate. Matt Wilson and Emily Free Wilson Helena Love 12 Funny 4 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 2 Farmers who are not reading this, but are in the field planting, are forgiven. They are doing what they are supposed to do, although there may not be many of them. After a warm and sunny Sunday, rains were supposed to arrive for nearly the remainder of the week, but thankfully, weather forecasters sometimes are not infallible. And the warm, non-rainy conditions as of mid-day Tuesday certainly allowed some well-drained fields to become plantable. The repugnant weather this spring has threatened many farming operations from achieving their plans to plant early, yield big, and profit better, if at all. But the excessive field moisture has been as welcome as the new political threats that have the potential to destroy China as a current and future market for U.S. agriculture. The challenging weather only allowed an additional 1% of Illinois corn to be planted last week, which now totals 10% of planned corn acreage. In an average year that would be 66%, indicating how far behind farmers are compared to other years. Conventional wisdom says larger corn planters traveling through the field faster, which technology has allowed, would reduce the time necessary to plant. But in reality, University of Illinois ag economists Scott Irwin and Todd Hubbs say the real key to success is the number of good days for fieldwork. And those have not existed. In fact, Irwin and Hubbs, who are now becoming headline makers for their research, indicate that the later planting is delayed, the more the yield will be diminished. They report, Right now, 2019 appears headed for both a very wet April and a wet May, something that has not happened in the last 25 years, and this means that there is a low probability of having the number of suitable field days needed to plant the corn crop in a timely fashion before May 20th. Irwin says, Our research indicates it takes 14 suitable field days to plant the corn crop. That converts to 7% per day. Late last week he said, We need 9 good days across the entire Cornbelt (prior to May 20th) then to avoid moving into really late territory. The ag economists evaluated planting data and yields back to 1981 and reported that during some years, excessive rainfall reduced U.S. corn yield by as much as 34% relative to the expected yield, while drought and excessive heat caused a yield loss of up to 37%. So too much rain can have a yield impact similar to not enough rain. At this point in the process, some farmers with crop insurance are seriously looking at not planting corn to save on input costs and taking the 55% of their guaranteed revenue in the form of an indemnity check. That may pay their cash rent and other non-input costs, but that is why they pay the premiums year after year, and never collect except in weather disasters. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The business news you need Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. DECATUR Local theater fans will have the opportunity to view a premiere production of the play Miss Me, written specifically for Millikin University actors and their talents by award-winning playwright Paul Shoulberg. The dramatic comedy will have four performances May 9 to 11 in the Albert Taylor Theatre. Shoulberg will join the cast after the Friday show for a post-show discussion. The story of Miss Me follows a young woman named Gary who returns to her home town in Indiana after spending some time in what she refers to as "Prison." She is the daughter of the mayor and wants to reconnect with his group. She has a lot of bold choices and poor strategies on how to do that, Robson said. The dramatic comedy is not intended for children due to adult language. Director and Millikin instructor Tom Robson has been friends with Shoulberg for many years. We have worked on six world premiere productions, Robson said. Most of them outside of Millikin. However, the play Cracker, performed at Millikins Pipe Dreams Theatre, made its way to the stage five years ago. In recent years Shoulberg has moved on from playwright to screenwriter and director. During a recent lunch in Decatur, the two friends discussed the idea of a play focused on the actors personalities, instead of creating a character made up in the mind of the writer. This allowed the actors talents and natural traits to be utilized for the betterment of the story. We cast a play that didnt exist, Robson said. We cast 10 actors that we liked what they did in the audition. Freshman Chloe Hayes brought a few paintings to her audition. We had to bring a special skill and a monologue, she said. I chose to bring my artwork. The audition was more intimidating for junior Emily Brandt, who wasnt sure she had an extra talent. I brought in a dramatic monologue and spoke some Spanish, she said. And I told them about some stage combat experience that I had, but thats about it. Several of the actors skills were added to the Miss Me story, including Hayes paintings, which have become a part of the show. The director plans to auction the artwork after the last performance. According to Robson, Millikin students and its stages fit well with the creation of the unique play. Paul was really impressed with what he saw during Cracker and he trusts me, Robson said. He knew I would look out for the show. In past Millikin plays, the process of producing a play takes several months, sometimes more than a year. Miss Me was created in weeks. Which in many ways is closer to what a professional process can be like in certain theaters, Robson said. This was a new challenge. The actors came to the rehearsals with open minds. The approach was to be myself more than try to fit a certain role, Hayes said. I hoped me, just showing up, would be enough, Brandt said. Being able to communicate with the playwright has been beneficial for the actors. To take his ideas and words and being able to morph them into the way that I see it going, that is cool part of putting my own touch on it, Brandt said. Because they were written for us. The director and actors confirm they are not the characters in the story. It showcases their skills, Robson said. Brandt, who will be on stage as Gary, was quick to set the record straight. I have never been to prison, she said. Contact Donnette Beckett at (217) 421-6983. Follow her on Twitter: @donnettebHR Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. EFFINGHAM Local school officials and state representatives are opposing a state bill mandating school textbooks include the sexual identity of historical figures. House Bill 246 proposes that the sexual identities of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people be identified. The bill is leading the way for the 2019 Equality Illinois Legislative Agenda. It passed the House 60-42. According to Equality Illinois website, HB246 will support inclusion in the curriculum bill, because Illinois students are being denied the whole story of history as LGBTQ peoples' roles and contributions are not included in the Illinois School Code. Equality Illinois claims that these students would better understand there were people like them who made important contributions to society throughout history. Others would learn about the contributions and gain a better sense of importance of a diverse society, it says. The chief sponsor of the bill was Anna Moeller, D-Chicago. "Under current practice in many of our schools, the contribution of LGBT individuals in history has remained hidden and unacknowledged," Moeller told The (Bloomington) Pantagraph. The bill requires schools teach about the diversity in society, including the role and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals in society. The bill would mean that textbooks purchased using the state's block grant program must adhere to the teachings that many conservatives oppose. The textbook block grant program was established in 2012 as a way to help public and state-recognized non-public schools purchase textbooks. According to officials at the Illinois State Board of Education, however, the program has never been funded, and so it is unlikely passage of the bill would have any immediate impact unless lawmakers decide to include it in future state budgets, according to Capitol News Illinois. Voting against the measure were local Republicans Blaine Wilhour, Beecher City; Darren Bailey, Louisville; Brad Halbrook, Shelbyville; and Chris Miller, Oakland. Wilhour encouraged local superintendents to take a stand against the proposed mandate. "I can't imagine that there are many parents here locally that are eager for their schools to start teaching this curriculum in the classroom," Wilhour said. "If cities like Chicago can ignore federal immigration laws, then surely school districts in Southern Illinois can ignore ridiculous mandates like this. It is time to take a stand against over-reaching, far-left policies like this." Wilhour said he is hopeful local superintendents will take a stand and refuse to go along with these unfunded mandates being forced on schools. Unit 40 school board discussed the matter during a special meeting in April, prior to the seating of the newly elected board members last week. "From the district's perspective, the Illinois legislature continually creates mandates for school districts without providing funding," Superintendent Mark Doan said. "The locally elected board has the role of leading school districts in preparing students to achieve academic standards that will ensure they are successful in college, careers and as citizens." With regards to the textbook block grant program, textbooks authorized to be purchased must include the roles and contributions of all people protected under the Illinois Human Rights Act and must be non-discriminatory. The district will continue to choose textbooks which present academic content without bias, said Doan. As a former school board member, Bailey opposes yet another mandate on teachers. "There is nothing that prevents the teaching of the lives of historical figures, including if they were known to have been homosexuals. But forcing that information on 5-year-olds and elementary school children is more of an effort of indoctrination than of learning history about individuals who accomplished important discoveries in science or created great works of art," Bailey said. Bailey added, "I also opposed this legislation because it does not provide an 'opt out' option for parents who do not wish their children be exposed to this kind of information for religious reasons or because their child may not be of a mature enough age to fully understand the meaning and implications of what LGBT actually is." Miller believes education needs to focus on subjects, such as reading, writing, math and financial literacy. "Teachers are overworked now and the system is overwhelmed with unfunded mandates," he said. Illinois Sen. Dale Righter, R-Mattoon, opposes the measure that is now in the Illinois Senate. If it passes the Senate, it would go to the governor for his signature or veto. If approved, the law would then become effective July 1, 2020. "This is yet another unfunded mandate on local school districts, which means unfunded mandates on local property taxpayers. If those legislators who vote for unfunded mandates want to make these decisions, they should run for school board," said Righter. Righter added that America was built on individual achievements. "Additionally, in this country we recognize and celebrate individuals regardless of who they are or what their personal characteristics may be because of their individual achievements, as opposed to their status as it may relate to gender, ethnicity, race, or even gender preference. America was built on individual liberty and individual achievement, not classifications." Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 State Rep. Jerry Costello II, D-Smithton, is leaving the state House of Representatives for an Illinois Department of Natural Resources position, the governor's office announced. Costello, son of former congressman Jerry Costello, has been appointed to director of Law Enforcement at the IDNR. The appointment does not need to be confirmed by the state Senate, said Jordan Abudayyeh, a spokeswoman for the governor's office. Costello will earn $112,000 in his new job, Abudayyeh added. "After serving his country in the battlefields of Iraq and the people of Southern Illinois in the statehouse, I'm thrilled Jerry Costello is continuing his public service by leading law enforcement at the Department of Natural Resources," said Gov. J.B. Pritzker. "His wide-ranging experience brings much value to an important piece of state government." Costello a conservative Democrat who was re-elected last year, resigned Tuesday as state representative in the 116th District. He has been in that position since 2011. "It's an honor to lead the dedicated group of men and women who keep Illinoisans safe while they enjoy our state's natural resources," Costello said. "I'm excited to start this new chapter, and I thank Gov. Pritzker for the opportunity to serve." Costello in 2018 faced a tough challenge from Republican David Friess. Costello won by 7 percentage points as Southern Illinois has increasingly voted for the GOP. It was the first time Costello had been challenged for the seat since 2012, when he defeated Julie Bigham Eggers by 25 percentage points. While in the House, Costello was a reliable conservative vote and faced a tough hill to climb push his priorities as Democrats hold a supermajority in the chamber with 74 out of the 118 seats. Costello has been against going to a progressive income tax and legalizing marijuana both of which are two of Pritzker's top priorities. Costello also voted against minimum wage increase, which was approved by the legislature and signed by the governor in February. The district includes all of Monroe and Randolph counties and parts of St. Clair and Perry counties. The Democratic Party chairmen from those counties have 30 days to vote on who will replace Costello, under state law. The vote will be weighted based on the number of votes Costello received in each county in the November election. When that vote will take place is still unclear. Kerry Johnson, the chairman of the Randolph County Democratic Central Committee, said he is still waiting on final details of the procedure, but hopes to have someone in Costello's seat before the end of the session which is scheduled to end on May 31. Johnson said whoever is selected will need to be someone who could handle criticism, especially in today's political environment. "Today we need someone with a tough skin for sure," Johnson said. Johnson however would not comment on whether there would be an effort to find a replacement who would vote for the governor's agenda. "That would be up to the individual we select," Johnson said. "I wouldn't tell someone how to vote." Johnson also said he hasn't heard of any specific names of people who could fill the seat. "I'm sure there will several people that will put their name in the hat," Johnson said. In the state House, Costello chaired the Agriculture and Conservation committee. Costello graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and served during Operation Desert Storm as part of the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division. After Costello's military service he worked as a police officer. He eventually became an assistant police chief. Love 0 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 DECATUR No injuries were reported Tuesday after crews responded to a house fire at 115 N. Illinois Street, but the Decatur Fire Department said the house is likely a complete loss. Battalion Chief Wally Moore said firefighters were called to the vacant multi-story home just after 1 p.m. When they arrived, he said, the front porch and several rooms inside the house were fully involved with flames. Moore said most of the fire was extinguished in about 10 minutes, but flames trapped within other areas of the house took about an hour to put out. Firefighters were initially able to get inside the house, but were forced out by heat and flames inside. "We opened up (the roof) to allow those hot flames and gases to exit so that we can enter," Moore said. "The house was unoccupied, but we still want to always make sure there's nobody inside." The cause of the fire was under investigation Tuesday afternoon, and Moore said he couldn't immediately provide a value of the home. Fire Chief Jeff Abbott said that because of the damage, the house will eventually need to be demolished. Abbott also said the fire is being considered "suspicious in nature" due to reports that there might have been a juvenile around the house before the fire started. "We're looking at all leads," he said. This story has been updated to reflect the house fire was located on North Illinois Street. Contact Jaylyn Cook at (217) 421-7980. Follow him on Twitter: @jaylyn_HR Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SPRINGFIELD Illinois lawmakers on Tuesday took aim at the state's Department of Children and Family Services, which has been haunted for decades by deaths wrought of abuse and neglect and is in the spotlight again following the beating death of a 5-year-old suburban Chicago boy with a long history of contact with the agency. The agency also this year has drawn scrutiny for its involvement with two other children who died, including a 2-year-old Decatur girl who police say died of starvation and neglect. Rep. Sara Feigenholtz stood with more than a dozen House and Senate members of a new child welfare reform caucus to propose legislation that would bolster checks and balances in the child welfare agency. Also Tuesday, Auditor General Frank Mautino issued a review of the agency's investigative practices from 2015 to 2017. It found that while abuse and neglect complaints jumped 11%, the DCFS hotline put callers into voicemail more than half the time, caseloads of investigators regularly exceeded limits set by a federal consent decree, and in more than three of five cases in which a child stayed with a family after an investigation, documentation did not exist to show proper social services were provided. DCFS has requested funding for 126 new hires in the budget year that begins July 1. Feigenholtz's measure would set up a review of allegations of neglect or abuse in which DCFS investigators concluded there was insufficient evidence to sustain the claim, to make sure all the boxes were checked. "We want to make sure that there are other sets of eyes on these cases that are so difficult," said Feigenholtz, a Chicago Democrat. It was a key missed piece in the case of Andrew "AJ" Freund of Crystal Lake. Records in AJ's case show he confided to an emergency room doctor in December that he had been beaten with a belt, but a DCFS administrator conceded last week that the information was missed when the agency ascribed AJ's bruising to a playful family dog and closed the complaint in January. The 5-year-old's body was found April 24 wrapped in plastic in a shallow grave near Woodstock, and his parents have been charged with murder. "Our mission is to take all the necessary steps to overhaul longstanding policies and procedures that have failed Illinois' children and these recommendations are an important element of our path forward," DCFS Director Marc Smith said in a prepared statement. Even before AJ's death, Gov. J.B. Pritzker ordered a review of the agency to recommend improvements following the high-profile deaths of two toddlers. The first was TaNaja Barnes, 2, who died in a Decatur home Feb. 11. The state agency had taken TaNaja and her younger brother into foster care before returning them to her mother and mothers boyfriend, who are charged with murder and have pleaded not guilty in the case. DCFS had contracted with a Decatur nonprofit, Webster-Cantrell Hall, to provide foster care and services in Ta'Naja's case. Webster-Cantrell has referred requests for comment to DCFS. In Chicago, an autopsy in March found a 2-year-old boy had bruises and old rib fractures but records show DCFS workers never reported injuries despite numerous visits. Pritzker said that "gross mistakes" were made. DCFS has for years emphasized keeping biological families intact when possible, but given the recent record, a change of focus might be in order, said Rep. Anna Moeller. Like AJ, the 47-year-old Elgin Democrat was born with opiates in her system. Moeller was taken from her biological mother and reared by her grandparents. "Our main priority must be what is best for the child, even if that means removing him or her from their parents," Moeller said. "We need to support and improve our foster care system and our adoption care programs. We need to provide appropriate resources so DCFS can do its job." The audit, ordered by the House in June 2017, suggests DCFS has repeatedly failed to provide the necessary social services to help troubled families with problems such as drug addiction, joblessness or a lack of parenting skills. There was no listing for services recommended in 11% of cases and in 26% the listing was "No Service Needed," a statistic which James McIntyre, co-founder and board president of the Illinois chapter of Foster Care Alumni of America, said is telling. "What that says in normal-people talk is we left families alone, we left families stranded," McIntyre said. "We let that kid know that their voice does not matter and that although, yes, abuse is wrong, we as a state said, 'OK, we don't need to offer services. We don't need to offer support.'" Feigenholtz's bill is SB193. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 ABC News(NEW YORK) -- A powerful storm has brought several days of severe weather across parts of the central U.S., including flooding rains in eastern Texas. Since the outbreak began on Tuesday, there have been 13 reported tornadoes in two different states (11 in Texas and two in Oklahoma). There were several tornado warnings early Wednesday along an intense line of storms spanning central Oklahoma and Texas, including reports of a large tornado in Kiowa County, Oklahoma, with possible damage. A flash flood emergency was issued early Wednesday morning for parts of central Kansas due to rainfall totals in excess of 4 inches. Moisture flowing in from the Gulf pounded Houston on Tuesday with rainfall rates up to 3 inches per hour and 10.19 inches of rain in Fort Bend County, a suburb southeast of the city. The radar on Wednesday morning was showing several clusters of intense thunderstorms stretching across parts of Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas. A few cells separate from the main line of storms have popped up across parts of Texas as well. Damaging winds, brief tornadoes and hail remain possible, as well as rainfall rates of 2 inches per hour or higher in some spots. A tornado watch is still in effect for parts of southern Kansas, most of Oklahoma and northern Texas, but it will likely be allowed to expire early Wednesday morning. A severe thunderstorm watch will remain in effect for parts of central Texas until 7 a.m. local time. Flash flood watches are being issued ahead of the line of storms as well. An intense line of storms is expected to move through major cities in Texas -- Dallas, Waco and Austin -- later Wednesday, as well as bringing very heavy rainfall to part of the Arkansas-Louisiana-Texas region. The storm system will bring severe storms to parts of Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee Wednesday night. There is a large slight-risk region from San Antonio to Peoria, Illinois, where damaging winds, large hail and brief tornadoes are possible. However, of particular concern, is an enhanced risk region that includes Austin and Waco, Texas; Shreveport, Louisiana; and Little Rock, Arkansas. Winds and large hail in the region could be destructive and a few tornadoes are possible. There is a slight-risk region on Thursday for the lower Mississippi River Valley region, and that is mainly for storm activity that will be ongoing through the morning hours. This region includes Memphis, Tennessee; Jackson, Mississippi; and Alexandria, Louisiana. On Thursday, this very large system will bring unsettled weather, including thunderstorms, to parts of the Ohio and Tennessee valleys, as well as parts of the Gulf states. Heavy rain and strong thunderstorms remain a concern. Locally, over 8 inches of rain are still expected to fall in parts of Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas. This could cause significant and life-threatening flash flooding. Heavy rain, with locally torrential downpours, are possible in the already hard-hit Houston metro area through the next several days. Behind this storm, colder air will change precipitation to snow in parts of the Upper Midwest, and into the Rocky Mountains near Denver. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. SPRINGFIELD At a Tuesday media event billed to discuss new legislation in response to a graduated tax constitutional amendment, Illinois House Republicans introduced an identical bill to one that failed to advance in the Senate. The Republicans measure would require a two-thirds vote in each legislative chamber to raise any tax rates in the future. Senate Democrats already advanced a graduated income tax rate structure last week that would become law if an amendment is approved by the House, then by Illinois voters. That rate structure would lower the income tax rate for earners with $250,000 or less in taxable income, while the tax rate would increase on earnings above that threshold. The higher taxes on those earning more than $250,000 would provide more than $3.5 billion in estimated revenue, and Democrats say it is the only legislative plan that can balance a long-term structural deficit of about $3.2 billion. Democrats have said the other options for balancing the budget are an increase to the flat tax rate from 4.95 percent to 6.95 percent or 15 percent cuts to all state departments, including education. The nine House Republicans at Tuesdays event did not reveal a counterplan to close the structural deficit, but they did say greater taxpayer protections are needed as the state awaits structural spending reforms. House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 34 does not address those structural reforms, but Republican Rep. Thomas Morrison, of Palatine, said it does give taxpayers protection. Going forward, it just takes a simple majority to raise taxes, and we believe that that is not a great enough protection to taxpayers, Morrison, the amendments sponsor, said. The Democrats graduated tax amendment does not lessen the amount of votes 30 in the Senate and 60 in the House needed to raise taxes, but Republicans claim it will make it politically easier to sell a tax increase to the public by allowing the General Assembly to raise the rates on only a certain portion of the public. The Republican amendment to require a two-thirds vote to raise taxes, however, remains in the House Rules Committee. The graduated tax amendment passed the Senate by a 40-19 vote and will need support from 71 lawmakers in the House to be put on the 2020 ballot. There are now 73 Democrats in that chamber after the seat of conservative Democratic Rep. Jerry Costello II, of Smithton, was vacated Tuesday when he accepted a post at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Costello, who was a co-sponsor on a resolution opposing the graduated tax, will be replaced within 30 days after a vote by the Democratic Party chairmen in Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair and Perry counties. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Its hard to imagine a more dire assessment of what we humans have done to the world than the 1,500-page United Nations report released Monday in Paris that says, among other things, that our collective activities have put some 1 million plant and animal species at risk of extinction, many within decades. While environmentalists and other scientists have warned for years that humans are uniquely dangerous to the habitability of the planet, the new report takes a deep and broad look at exactly what those impacts have been so far, and what they foretell. It isnt pretty. The report from the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services involved the work of more than 450 researchers and relied on 15,000 scientific and government reports; it took three years to complete. Its an astounding accounting of what we have wrought, warning that extinction rates are accelerating rapidly and making clear that without fundamental changes to how we live and organize human societies, the massive decline in biodiversity will endanger humankind as well, because our fate is so deeply interwoven with that of other species. The overwhelming evidence presents an ominous picture, said Robert Watson, chair of the U.N. body that presented the report. The health of ecosystems on which we and all other species depend is deteriorating more rapidly than ever. We are eroding the very foundations of our economies, livelihoods, food security, health and quality of life worldwide. The rate of global change in nature during the past 50 years, the report says, is unprecedented in human history. Not coincidentally, the world population has increased from 3.7 billion to 7.6 billion since 1970. Despite the dire risk from our burning of fossil fuels, it seems that climate change is only the third biggest threat to existence of global species, at least for the moment. At the top of the list is land use, including development, logging, hunting, mining and harvesting, and mans impact on the oceans from pollution and overfishing. Three-quarters of the earths surface bears the scars of human presence, as does two-thirds of the marine environment, the report says. Urbanized areas have doubled since 1990 and pollution from plastics has increased tenfold. Some scientists argue that the global ecosystem is undergoing a sixth extinction, much like what happened to the dinosaurs and other lifeforms during five previous global catastrophes. But this is the first such crisis in which the blame does not fall on a massive asteroid strike or pervasive volcanic activity but on the behavior of a single species: us. The message is clear: Unless the world drastically reorders its priorities and alters its policies, the despoliation of nature will continue. So what is to be done? A lot of hard work. The report recommends a wide range of actions, including less intrusive and lower-impact land-use policies and integration of agriculture with development, stronger focus on conservation and retention of ecological diversity, localization (and improved distribution) of agricultural food chains, stronger marine protections and use policies, and in urban areas a better focus on sustainable development in making planning decisions. Of course, those steps require political will, and if the decades-long fight to counter the worst effects of climate change from global warming is any indicator, we may be in trouble. The issue is global, and correcting the course of human behavior takes leadership and international cooperation. Fortunately, the United States was among the more than 130 nations that approved the summary of the reports findings, signaling at some level a recognition by this administration that the natural world is paying a deep and escalating price for human behavior. We hope this report, and a global consensus on the dangers we face from climate change and a variety of other behaviors, will lead to smarter, less damaging policies. This isnt a matter of balancing the survival of one species or another against the human need for food, water and shelter. This report warns in no uncertain terms that we face an existential threat of our own making. Its humankinds to fix, and the urgency of doing so cant be overstated. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 | UHER Royal de Luxe ttaa024 : hjkhgk : 9 : hjkhgk: 9 #1 UHER Royal de Luxe / 08-05-2019 16:12 UHER Royal de Luxe ( 20-05-2019 15:48 #1 .) : : : -------------------- -- Hi-Fi ---- ---- ---- ---- -- -- -- -- ---- D ---- BD/DVD/LD ---- - ---- , ---- ---- -- -- -- : 1 () | Sony TC 765 Hifi ttaa024 : hjkhgk : 9 : hjkhgk: 9 #1 Sony TC 765 Hifi / 08-05-2019 16:13 Sony TC 765 Hifi ( 20-05-2019 15:52 #1 .) : : : -------------------- -- Hi-Fi ---- ---- ---- ---- -- -- -- -- ---- D ---- BD/DVD/LD ---- - ---- , ---- ---- -- -- -- : 1 () 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 The latest victims of that practice have been identified as Mehdi Sohrabifar and Amin Sedaghat. Both were hanged on April 25, a day after being transferred to a new prison without explanation. It appears that neither of the boys was informed of his death sentence ahead of time, and both were flogged before being sent to the gallows. The pending execution was also reportedly kept secret from their families, who were given an opportunity to visit the prisoners after the transfer but were still not informed of the death sentence until after it had been carried out. This somewhat unusual level of secrecy may have been intended to compensate for the judiciary declining to adhere to its usual practice of deflecting some domestic and international backlash by keeping juvenile death row inmates in detention until they have surpassed the age of 18. In the case of Sohrabifar and Sedaghat, both boys were still 17 when they were executed for crimes they are alleged to have committed when only 15. However, the judiciary initially sought to conceal this fact by keeping the death sentences secret, and then later by simply denying multiple reports regarding the boys ages. According to Iran Human Rights, judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmeili even went beyond denying the specific details of this case, in an apparent effort to cast doubt upon all reports of Irans juvenile executions. Juveniles cannot commit these kinds of crimes, he declared in a press conference. Accordingly, Esmeili also insisted that Sohrabifar and Sedaghat were above the internationally recognized age of majority not only when they were hanged last month but also when they supposedly committed rape and robbery two years earlier. The judiciarys claims spurred predictable rebuttals, including those which cited the two youths legal documents in order to demonstrate that they were indeed young teenagers at the time of both their arrest and their execution. Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, the director of Iran Human Rights, also challenged the Iranian regime to explain why it refuses to make the practice of juvenile execution illegal, if people below the age of 17 or 18, as Mr Esmeili says, cannot commit serious violent crimes. Previously, Tehran has acknowledged the juvenile status of persons who were condemned to death, but has insisted that they were sufficiently mature at the time of the crimes to justify capital punishment. Iranian law allows for children to be held legally responsible at as young as 13 if they are boys, and as young as nine if they are girls. At various times over the past several years, the implementation of juvenile death sentences has been delayed and the cases reviewed, apparently in response to pressure from international human rights groups and foreign governments. But in almost every case, the sentence has been upheld and ultimately carried out. The latest estimates indicate that 100 juvenile offenders have been put to death in Iran since 1990, but the aforementioned practices of secrecy and denial suggest that the actual number could be significantly higher. At the same time, the judiciarys newest talking points insisting upon the impossibility of violent crimes among youthful offenders, it seems as if the regime may now be committed to the claim that the number is effectively zero. But assuming that the judiciary cannot conceal the evidence of such executions being carried out, Esmeilis talking point threatens to lend credence to claims about the potential innocence of some of the young defendants. Those claims have certainly been made in the case of Sohrabifar and Sedaghat, on account of their having been beaten in custody and systematically denied due process. In condemning the executions last Friday, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet stated that they were particularly outrageous because both boys were reportedly subjected to ill-treatment and a flawed legal process. The boys initially denied all charges, but were detained for two months during which confessions may have been extracted using torture. In any event, the worldwide illegality of juvenile executions is clear regardless of the nature or the veracity of the charges against them. Yet Iran shows no sign of compromising on this issue, and may in fact be ramping up the practice. Iran Human Rights Monitor notes that there have been unconfirmed reports of a third such execution having already taken place this year. By comparison, only three juvenile offenders are known to have been executed in the entirety of 2018, and all of them had been held in prison until an age of majority. Irans reputation for juvenile executions is an outgrowth of its approach to the death penalty in general. Only China puts more criminals to death, and when researchers control for population Iran consistently secures the title of the country with the worlds highest rate of executions. This was true last year even though the Iranian judiciary achieved a significant reduction by vacating the death penalty for many non-violent drug offenders. But the regimes commitment to this legal reform is coming into doubt at the same time that its commitment to juvenile executions seems firm. IHRM reported on Tuesday that four alleged drug criminals had been executed in Arak Central Prison on a single day. If these killings mark the resumption of ultra-hardline drug policies, it would not come as a surprise to many people who are familiar with the Iranian judiciary. In March, that body came under the control of Ebrahim Raisi, a conservative cleric with a long history of human rights abuses, including a leading role in the execution of approximately 30,000 political prisoners in 1988. His appointment by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was widely condemned, as well as being viewed as a likely precursor to even worse crackdowns and abuses across the Islamic Republic. At the end of April, Raisi in turn appointed Ali Alghasi-Mehr as the general prosecutor for Tehran. As the Center for Human Rights in Iran explained on Tuesday, Alghasi-Mehr has taken an extremely hardline approach to criminal justice throughout his career, including by advocating public executions and amputations as a means of punishment. Whats more, the new general prosecutor has defended ignoring not only international human rights documents but also Irans own established legal practices for the sake of prioritizing executions. The rate of executions in the Islamic Republic would no doubt be even higher than it is if not for the Islamic practice of qisas, which allows victims families to forgive a condemned criminal and vacate his or her death sentence in exchange for blood money. But last August, Alghasi-Mehr specifically called for the death penalty to be carried out on nine men even though they have been pardoned by the victims family. In June 2015, Alghasi-Mehr also claimed that there is public support for public execution, another practice that Iran insists on continuing despite condemnation from human rights groups both at home and abroad. Critics of public hangings tend to describe them as having intimidation as their primary role. And the escalating practice of such intimidation would be in line with what is generally expected on the basis of ongoing trends and the recent changes in leadership of the Iranian judiciary. URBANA -- On May 1, the latest USDA Grain Crushing report will provide an estimate of corn used for ethanol production in March. An expectation of continued weakness is in place for ethanol-based corn consumption that led to the USDAs reduction by 150 million bushels since the September WASDE report, according to University of Illinois agricultural economist Todd Hubbs. While increased production is set to begin with the summer driving season, strong growth in gasoline consumption or ethanol exports appear necessary to meet the USDA forecast, Hubbs says. At 5.5 billion bushels, the current projection of corn used for ethanol production this marketing year reflects the lower pace of corn consumption for ethanol. Grain crushing for fuel alcohol totals are available through February from the USDA this marketing year. For the first half of the marketing year, corn use for ethanol came in at 2.674 billion bushels of corn, down 4 percent from 2017-18 crush numbers. Using EIA weekly ethanol production data through March, production levels place corn use for ethanol production near 440 million bushels for the month if corn use maintains the conversion rate seen in the first two months of the year, Hubbs explains. With a conservative estimate of corn crush through March, total corn consumption for ethanol production through the first seven months of the marketing year comes in at 3.114 billion bushels. Last year from April through August, corn use for ethanol totaled 2.343 billion bushels. To reach the USDA projection, corn use over the remaining five months needs to equal 2.386 billion bushels. Thus far, ethanol production in April averaged 1.022 million barrels a day, up from the 1.009 million barrels a day over the same period last year. As we enter the summer driving season, gasoline demand is set to increase. However, the current projection requires much stronger gasoline demand or acceleration in ethanol exports to meet the forecast, Hubbs says. The Energy Information Agency (EIA) projection of U.S. retail gasoline prices during the summer driving season appears set to average $2.76 per gallon in 2019, 9 cents lower than the price experienced in 2018. The forecast for gasoline consumption stands at 9.54 million gallons per day in the second and third quarter of 2019, up from the 9.51 million gallons consumed over the same period in 2018. EIAs forecast of ethanol production in the second and third quarters is 1.05 and 1.04 million barrels per day respectively. Those ethanol production levels sit slightly lower than 2018 levels of 1.04 and 1.06 million barrels per day. If the EIA projection is correct, a production level of ethanol for gasoline consumption sits lower for the 2019 driving season, Hubbs says. Moderate growth in gasoline consumption from last year does not appear to be enough for ethanol use for blending purposes to meet the current USDA projection. Strong economic growth leading to increased gasoline consumption or increased exports looks necessary to meet or exceed the USDA forecast. Ethanol exports witnessed record levels in the 2017-18 marketing year with exports totaling 1.636 billion gallons. Approximately 28 percent of this total went to Brazil. Canada imported over 20 percent and an expanding market in India imported another 10 percent. Ethanol export numbers are available from U.S. Census trade data for the marketing year through February. U.S. exports of ethanol thus far sit near 800 million gallons, up 2 percent from the same period last marketing year. The largest markets once again comprised Brazil, Canada, and India through February. Brazil and Canada both maintained last years percentages in exports while India increased to 12 percent. Expansion of ethanol imports to South Korea, the Netherlands, Peru, and the Philippines helped lead to the year-over-year growth through February, Hubbs says. Low sugar prices saw expanded ethanol production from sugar in Brazil this year. In combination with increased corn ethanol production in the country, the prospects for ethanol exports to Brazil for the remainder of the marketing year look weaker than last year. Ethanol exports to China remain noticeably absent, Hubbs notes. Warming trade relations create the possibility for increased ethanol exports moving forward. If a resolution to the trade impasse with China gets resolved early enough in 2019, the potential for strong ethanol exports during the last quarter of the marketing year remains a possibility, he adds. At 45 percent, the Chinese tariff on U.S. ethanol limits export potential. China possesses the ability to ramp up ethanol imports rather quickly and an expectation of increased demand seems reasonable given current E-10 policy goals in the country, Hubbs says. The pace of ethanol exports places the 2018-19 marketing year on course to exceed last years record total. Still, a sharp expansion in ethanol buying from China may be necessary to reach the current USDA projection of corn use for ethanol. Lower gasoline prices leading to higher domestic gasoline consumption may provide support for increased corn usage for ethanol production this summer, Hubbs concludes. Additionally, the continued expansion of ethanol exports appears promising especially if China emerges as a buyer. Corn use from ethanol production faces the prospects of further reductions during the 2018-19 marketing year without a fundamental change in current market demand projections. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Today's Highlight in History: On May 8, 1996, South Africa took another step from apartheid to democracy by adopting a constitution that guaranteed equal rights for blacks and whites. On May 8: In 1429, the Siege of Orleans during the Hundred Years' War ended as English troops withdrew after being defeated by French forces under Joan of Arc. In 1541, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto reached the Mississippi River. In 1794, Antoine Lavoisier, the father of modern chemistry, was executed on the guillotine during France's Reign of Terror. In 1921, Sweden's Parliament voted to abolish the death penalty. In 1945, President Harry S. Truman announced on radio that Nazi Germany's forces had surrendered, and that "the flags of freedom fly all over Europe." In 1958, Vice President Richard Nixon was shoved, stoned, booed and spat upon by anti-American protesters in Lima, Peru. In 1970, anti-war protests took place across the United States and around the world; in New York, construction workers broke up a demonstration on Wall Street. In 1973, militant American Indians who had held the South Dakota hamlet of Wounded Knee for 10 weeks surrendered. In 1978, David R. Berkowitz pleaded guilty in a Brooklyn courtroom to murder, attempted murder and assault in connection with the "Son of Sam" shootings that claimed six lives and terrified New Yorkers. (Berkowitz was sentenced to six consecutive life prison terms.) In 1984, the Soviet Union announced it would boycott the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles. In 1987, Gary Hart, dogged by questions about his personal life, including his relationship with Miami model Donna Rice, withdrew from the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. In 2003, the Senate unanimously endorsed adding to NATO seven former communist nations: Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia. In 2009, White House aide Louis Caldera resigned for his role in a $328,835 photo-op flyover by an Air Force One jet above New York City that sparked panic and flashbacks to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Dominic DiMaggio, the Boston Red Sox center fielder and brother of Joe, died in Marion, Massachusetts, at age 92. In 2014, Syrian rebels leveled a historic hotel being used as an army base in the northern city of Aleppo by detonating bomb-packed tunnels beneath it, killing a still-undetermined number of soldiers. House Republicans jumped into a new election-season investigation of the deadly Benghazi assault, naming majority members of a special House committee. In 2018, President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the nuclear accord with Iran and restored harsh sanctions. Trump had been a severe critic of the deal negotiated by the Obama administration in which Iran agreed to restrictions on its nuclear program. Gina Haspel, nominated to be CIA director, said that if confirmed, she would not undertake a detention and harsh interrogation program like the controversial one used after 9/11. (Haspel would be confirmed by a Senate vote of 54-45.) James Paxton of the Seattle Mariners pitched a no-hitter against the Blue Jays in Toronto, becoming the first Canadian to achieve that feat in his home country. Former coal executive Don Blankenship, who had served a year in prison for his role in a mine explosion that killed 29 men, lost a Republican U.S. Senate primary in West Virginia, finishing a distant third to state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey. Thought for Today: "A man who works with his hands is a laborer; a man who works with his hands and his brain is a craftsman; but a man who works with his hands and his brain and his heart is an artist." Louis Nizer, American lawyer (1902-1994). Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 CHARLESTON -- Rotary Club Past President Doug Bock helped set up banners on Tuesday for the group's weekly gathering in the Charleston Rotary Community Meeting Room at the public library. Fundraising for this public meeting room is one of several projects that Bock has worked on over the years with the Charleston Rotary Club. And, Rotary is just one area of public service for Bock, who also volunteers with the CCAR Industries and the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Foundation boards. Bock, a retired professor and chair of the communications department at Eastern Illinois University, said he has been drawn to volunteering with multiple organization because he grew up with parents, teachers and other role models who taught him that it is important to give back to the community. "The thing is to try to make the world around you a better place," Bock said, adding that he has tried to do this for Charleston and Coles County over the years. Bock was recently honored for his volunteerism when he received a local Jefferson Award for Public Service as part of a national program organized by the Multiplying Good nonprofit organization. "It's an honor. It certainly is," Bock said, noting that he has long admired the public service of other local recipients of this award. Regarding Rotary, Bock said this organization, which he joined in 1984, has provided him with opportunities to help globally through exchange student and polio vaccination programs. He said their local service opportunities have include raising money for the community meeting room at the public library and classroom technology for the Charleston School District. Charleston Rotarian Michael Watts, one of those who nominated Bock for the Jefferson Award, wrote that Bock is a person with a passion for service, whether it be assisting community organizations and those they serve, serving his church and congregation, or mentoring students and EIU faculty members. "This sense of service is nowhere more evident than Doug's long history as a member of and leader in the Charleston Rotary Club. Not surprisingly, 'service above self,' Rotary International's central motto, is a tenant that Doug takes to heart," Watts said. With CCAR Industries in Charleston, Bock said he has enjoyed working to help provide vocational and housing opportunities for those with developmental disabilities. Bock said he has a special respect for those who work in this field. "They are compassionate people. They do their work because they love it," Bock said. With the SBL Health Foundation, Bock said this organization has reached out over the years to the community to determine what services are needed most. He said this effort has resulted in the foundation supporting enhancements in women's and children's health programs, including mobile dental service and mammography programs. Kim Uphoff, vice president operations at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center, wrote in her nomination for Bock that during his tenure on the Foundation Board, Bock provided great leadership and helped raise funds for hospital programs and services. Uphoff said Healthy Communities programs were launched as a result of funds raised by the Foundation and women and children were able to access necessary services, regardless of their financial status. "Doug has been a strong advocate and ambassador for Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center over the years and many people have benefited from his support," Uphoff said. Contact Rob Stroud at (217) 238-6861. Follow him on Twitter: @TheRobStroud Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SPRINGFIELD A group supporting recreational marijuana legalization spoke outside the governors office Tuesday, touting a recently filed legalization plan while suggesting a few changes. The Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition lobbied for no fine, no time for people younger than 21 who are caught in possession of marijuana under the new legislation. Instead, they said, penalties should be placed on those selling the drugs. We are here to ensure a system that puts black and brown folks at the forefront for opportunity, specifically those that were targeted by the war on drugs, said Alexandria Boutros, who led the Coalitions rally. The group shared stories of friends and family who were incarcerated for drug possession, and said those whose records are expunged as part of the bill should have an opportunity to find employment in the industry. There has been a harm committed in our communities, equity advocate Alonzo Waheed said. This is the time that we can come forward and make it right. Waheed said barriers to the industry need to be reduced for communities impacted disproportionately by the war on drugs. He also suggested the legislation should create workforce development, skills trainings and outreach programs to create opportunity in those areas. Still, he said expungement is the most important measure. None of that means anything if you do not release individuals and clear their backgrounds, he said. For us to have true equity, we need to transform. Thats transforming our mindsets, transforming our policies, and we need to start doing that today. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 TOLEDO -- George L. Cutright, Sr., of Toledo, passed away in the early morning of May 5, 2019, at his home in rural Toledo. He was born August 8, 1928, the oldest of three children of Albert Leo and Alice Loretta Cross Cutright. On August 29, 1948, he married Dorothy E. McCandlish, of Toledo, at Cottonwood United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at the Cottonwood United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Wednesday evening at the Barkley Funeral Chapel in Toledo, IL. Masonic Rites will be held at 7:00 PM on Wednesday evening. Burial with Military Rites will be at the Toledo Cemetery. Survivors include his daughter, Elizabeth Anne Cutright, of Mattoon. Her daughter is Lori Anne Sparks (husband Scott) Shull, of Toledo, and the mother of Taylor (wife Baylee Smith) Ring of Brownstown, IL. Their children are Charlie, Lincoln, and Ava. His son, George L. Cutright, Jr., of Joliet, also survives. He is the father of George L., Ill, of AL, and of Kristina Van Pelt (husband Martin) of Channahon, IL. Their children are Preston, Caroline, Elijah, and Kirstiana. A brother, Lowell Cutright, and an uncle, Tom Cross, both of Charleston, also survive. The younger son, Neil Raymond, died in 1984. Despite a courageous life, he could not overcome muscular dystrophy. He wanted to be remembered for receiving a BA from Eastern Illinois University in 1983. Besides his son and parents, George's sister, Marilyn (husband Jerrald) Reeley, of Mattoon, IL and his half-brother, Duane, of Illiopolis, IL preceded him in death. A graduate of Mattoon High School, George entered the Army at Fort Knox, KY. He graduated from basic training with the Outstanding Trainee Award and highest AGCT score known there at that time. After teaching at Leader's Course, George applied for Officer Candidate School and learned that married men were no longer eligible. Returning to Mattoon, he worked for his uncles at Cross Brothers Construction Company. In November 1950, he began work at the Mattoon General Electric Company. In 1967, after working the third shift for three years, George graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a BS in Business Management. In 1968 he set up a flash bulb lamp development shop at Nela Park, OH, General Electric Lamp Headquarters. His work in overseas lighting began 5 years later and took him to 40 countries. He managed plants in Monterrey, Mexico and Rio de Janeiro. He returned to Nela Park as manager of manufacturing engineering. George retired as Manager of Planning and Facilities for overseas lamp operations in 1987. He then worked for other companies and built lamp plants in Schenzen, China; Twinsburg, OH; and Fork Union, VA. He also assisted with plants in St. Louis, and Cairo, Egypt. George was a member and trustee of Cottonwood United Methodist Church. George was an Illinois member-at-large of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was a Life Member of Hutton Masonic Lodge, #698; Past Master of Monterrey Lodge #13, F. & A. M.; and member of Alzafar Shrine Temple and Consistory, of San Antonio, TX. He was also a Life Member of Toledo American Legion Post #764 and enjoyed activities of the East Central Illinois Bluebird Society. The Eastern Illinois University Foundation recognized him in 1993 during National Philanthropy Day. Memorials may be made to Cottonwood United Methodist Church at 1326 Co. Rd., 1050 N., Toledo, and to the Neil R. Cutright Memorial Scholarship at the ElU Foundation, which awards full tuition and fees to Cumberland High School graduates. Online condolences can be expressed at www.barkleyfuneralchapels.com Your Love is Like Water can be heard on Soundcloud, on Spotify (search Color Red Music) and at color-red.co. Stream is on for Caulfield Records A handful of albums from Caulfield Records, the indie label run by Bernie McGinn in the late 1980s and early 1990s that released records by Sideshow, Mercy Rule, Opium Taylor and many other punk bands, have made their way to streaming services. Those releases are: Sideshows 1992s Eggplants & Pro" and 1994s Lip Read Confusion, the last album from the trio of McGinn, Rich Higgins and Pawl Tisdale. Mercy Rules 1993 God Protects Fools and 1994s Providence are the first two albums from the punk trio of Heidi Ore, Jon Taylor and Ron Albertson. Theyre available on most streaming platforms, though Apple Music has been a little slow on the draw getting them up and Sideshows albums are lumped in with records by another band with the same name. But once youve found them, theyre as great as ever and, notably, dont sound dated -- although theyre some of the best examples of the Heartland post-punk rock, a sound that continues on via, among many bands, Domestica, the group that now includes Ore, Taylor and Tisdale. Reach the writer at 402-473-7244 or kwolgamott@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSWolgamott. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Stay up-to-date on what's happening Receive the latest in local entertainment news in your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Randy Rogers Band has been to Lincoln many times, playing shows inside and out. The Red Dirt outlaw country favorites are back again Friday -- this time outside for a show in The Railyard, hosted by Bourbon Street by Single Barrel. Rogers and his outfit just released their eighth album, Hellbent, recorded at Nashvilles historic RCA Studio A with producer of the moment Dave Cobb. Taking its name from Guy Clarks classic Hell Bent on a Heartache, which Rogers covers, the album is a mix of the rockin country and ballads that have made Rogers a Texas music staple, and a salute to country. The Randy Rogers Band will celebrate its 20th anniversary next year, 17 of them with the same lineup. Its a statement that were still here and still making and recording original music, still playing over 100 shows a year as a band that is in this for the long haul, Rogers told the San Antonio Express News. Basically, what Hellbent means is that were hellbent to stay. "It's not over," Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn said Tuesday. That was the Revenue Committee chairwoman's upbeat assessment after three hours of spirited debate over the committee's comprehensive tax reform bill exposed an anticipated metro-rural divide over the property tax reduction proposal. Linehan now faces the daunting challenge of convincing Speaker Jim Scheer of Norfolk that she can marshal the 33 votes that would be required to overcome an anticipated filibuster. That's what's needed for Scheer to agree to return the proposal (LB289) to the legislative agenda. "I think we have more than 25," Linehan said, and she's prepared to engage in negotiations now to reach for 33. "We may have to increase the proposed income tax credit" to meet concerns expressed by a number of urban senators, she said. The debate, she said, went "better than expected," with only two senators flatly declaring their opposition to the proposal. Others who raised concerns or said they could not vote for the bill in its current form may be open to amendments that meet their objections, Linehan suggested. The Legislature spent most of Wednesday debating and advancing the state's $9.3 billion budget for 2019-21, and on property tax credits and University of Nebraska spending. In all, seven bills were advanced. Senators amended the work of the Appropriations Committee on two bills, the focus of which would change one thing: They rerouted $50 million over two years from the state's rainy day fund, and directed it toward property tax credits that Gov. Pete Ricketts wanted in the first place. The Property Tax Credit Fund was first approved by the Legislature in 2007 and has been added to four times since. This would be the fifth, and would bring the credit fund to about $275 million per year. The increase in the fund would give agricultural property owners about $128 in credit per $100,000 in valuation. An owner with a farm valued at $1 million would receive $1,280 in credit. The credit for non-ag land owners would be about $106 per $100,000 in valuation. Ricketts wanted $51 million annually for the fund, but most committee members had so much concern about the depletion of the state's rainy day fund that they took half of the proposed amount for savings. A grand jury has found no criminal wrongdoing in the recent deaths of four prison inmates and a Lincoln man who shot himself as police entered his home during a standoff Dec. 28. According to the initial reports, filed at the Lancaster County District Court Clerk's office, inmates Daniel Stetter, Elijah Jones, Roger Schmidt Sr. and Benjamin Oates II all died of natural causes as the result of illnesses. Stetter, 57, died Nov. 23 at a Lincoln hospital as a result of lung cancer. He had been at the Nebraska State Penitentiary serving a South Dakota sentence for manslaughter, two counts of first-degree assault and driving intoxicated for a 1991 crash that killed one person and injured two others. Jones, 74, died Sept. 10 at the State Penitentiary as a result of liver disease, Hepatitis C and pancreatic cancer. He had been serving a life sentence on a murder charge in Douglas County. Schmidt, 74, died at the State Penitentiary on Dec. 19 as a result of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He was serving a sentence for first-degree sexual assault of a child convictions in Jefferson County. Bob Morgan, director of the Beatrice Campus, said the building will meet a desperate need for classrooms. Walker Zulkoski, director of the NGage economic development group, added that the building may help solve one of the areas biggest problems. We have a workforce shortage, and couldnt be more excited that Southeast Community College is going to step up to the plate and build these facilities here to help fix that problem, he said. For them to do it here proves that we have a great economy. Theres things happening and theyre listening to our work. Hausmann Construction is building the facility, with construction to be completed by August 2020. The groundbreaking is the latest step in an overhaul of the campus. On Friday crews began demolishing Hoover Hall as construction nears completion on a new three-story residence hall. SCC-Beatrice has invested roughly $8 million in the new hall, which will house up to 153 students, 80 more than Hoover Halls capacity. The new dorms sit in the southwest part of campus, northwest of the Kennedy Center. A $3 million dining hall is also on the way and will be just south of the new residence hall. It's expected to be ready later this summer. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Voters reelected two incumbents Tuesday and added Lincoln physician Bob Rauner to represent them on the Lincoln Board of Education. Annie Mumgaard, 56, won a second four-year term on the school board representing District 4 in north-central Lincoln in the only contested race. She beat newcomer Paul Claus, 74, who has worked for Lincoln Public Schools for 41 years as the head locksmith. Rauner, 49, will replace Matt Schulte, who decided not to run for reelection to the District 6 seat in east Lincoln. Connie Duncan, 53, was elected to a second term to represent District 2 in south-central Lincoln. The officially nonpartisan board will now include five Democrats (Mumgaard, Rauner, Don Mayhew, Kathy Danek and Barb Baier) and two Republicans (Duncan and Lanny Boswell). The board isnt overtly political and has traditionally found consensus on issues, at least publicly, although in recent years Schulte has disagreed with the majority on budget issues. Interstate 29 reopened to traffic between Omaha and Kansas City on Wednesday, but where you can get on and off of the freeway is limited. The section of I-29 from Glenwood, Iowa, to the Missouri border, an area ravaged by Missouri River floodwaters last month, reopened Wednesday, although traffic is limited in some spots to one lane in each direction. Officials said some traveler services at the Nebraska City exit were to reopen Wednesday, but sections of the highway link between I-29 and Nebraska City remain underwater. Scott Suhr, transportation planner for the Iowa Department of Transportation, said Iowa officials had hoped to open the Nebraska-to-Interstate 29 link on Wednesday, but were thwarted by rising water levels associated with recent heavy rains. When they do reopen Iowa 2, the highway that connects Nebraska 2, which runs from Lincoln to Nebraska City, to I-29, traffic will likely be limited to one lane in each direction and will travel over rock aggregate added on top of the existing highway surface and bordered by retaining walls holding back water on both sides of the road. Speeds in those stretches will be reduced to 25 mph. Lancaster County Commissioner Jennifer Brinkman has been tapped to serve as Lincoln Mayor-Elect Leirion Gaylor Baird's top aide, meaning both the county board and City Council will be filling vacancies. Gaylor Baird announced Brinkman would serve as chief of staff once she is sworn in on May 20. She also said former Lt. Gov. Kim Robak will serve as the voluntary chair of her transition team. Gaylor Baird, a Democrat, won election to the mayor's office Tuesday by defeating fellow City Councilwoman Cyndi Lamm, a Republican, in the general election. Wednesday's announcements mark the first key appointments in Gaylor Baird's administration. Prior to Brinkman's election to the Lancaster County Board, she had served as the director of communications at the real estate firm Tetrad Property Group. "With the election of Leirion Gaylor Baird as our mayor, I am more confident than ever that we are poised to create an even more vibrant place for citizens to call home," Brinkman said in a news release. "I am excited to serve Mayor-Elect Gaylor Baird and work to create even more long-lasting impacts for the betterment of our community. In a related move, Nadler also threatened to hold former White House counsel Don McGahn in contempt of Congress if he doesn't testify before the committee later this month. Nadler rejected a White House claim that documents McGahn refused to provide despite a subpoena are controlled by the White House and thus McGahn has no legal right to them. On Monday, Justice spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said the department has "taken extraordinary steps to accommodate the House Judiciary Committee's requests for information" regarding Mueller's report, but that Nadler had not reciprocated. She noted that Democrats have refused to read the version of Mueller's report with fewer redactions that has been provided to Congress. A contempt vote against Barr would head to the full House for a vote. If the House were to pass the resolution, it would send a criminal referral to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a Justice Department official who is likely to defend the attorney general. Democratic House leaders could also file a lawsuit against the Justice Department to obtain the Mueller report, though the case could take months or even years to resolve. Some committee members have suggested they also could fine Barr as he withholds the information. MEXICO CITY Mexico's Economy Department said Tuesday that U.S. consumers could pay 38% to 70% more for tomatoes after the U.S. Commerce Department announced it would re-impose anti-dumping duties on Mexican imports. The Mexican agency said the country exports about $2 billion in tomatoes to the United States and supplies about half the tomatoes the U.S. consumes annually. It said that many small- and medium-sized Mexican tomato exporters won't be able to pay the deposits required to export. Tomatoes are Mexico's largest agricultural export after beer and avocadoes, and tomato growing and harvesting provides about 400,000 jobs in Mexico. But the deposits required to comply with the 17.5% U.S. tariff would amount to about $350 million, money that many Mexican producers don't have. In March the Commerce Department announced it was ending a 2013 suspension agreement in which Mexican growers promised to sell at fair prices, and that it would reinstate the 1996 tariffs. The Mexican government said its growers continue to negotiate with the U.S., and expressed hope that another agreement, like ones that have been in place for 23 years, could be reached. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 OMAHA A man left paralyzed in a 2017 shootout with Omaha police officers has been sentenced to 13 to 25 years in prison. Monroe Evans III, 22, was sentenced Tuesday in Douglas County District Court, as Evans sat in a wheelchair. Evens lost the use of both legs and his left hand after a shootout with police near Turner Park in January 2017. Prosecutors say Officers Jill Schillerberg and Matthew Skradski confronted Evans after someone reported a man carrying a gun and looking in windows. Investigators say Evans fired first at Schillerberg, hitting her in the ankle. Schillerberg fired back once and Skradski fired 11 times. Evans was hit nine times. Information provided by Nebraska prison officials says Evans will be housed in a prison medical unit. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Despite the clear and present dangers of smoking and vaping on ones health, raising the limit to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 19 years of age will be ineffective. Let us be abundantly clear: Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco and vapor devices are as harmful as the surgeon generals warnings on their labels indicate. However noble the intent of keeping such products out of high-schoolers hands is, this proposal will be ineffective in achieving it, as students will find a way of obtaining them. Grand Island Sen. Dan Quicks original bill sought to ban the purchase and use of vapor products by Nebraskans younger than 21, while keeping the age threshold for cigarettes and cigars at 18. Wrangling by the General Affairs Committee and full Legislature, which advanced LB149 last week following a spirited debate, amended the measure to 19 years old across the board. Yes, Nebraska places the age of majority at 19. But were an outlier in that regard, one of just three states where it exceeds 18. Nebraskans can enlist in the military and vote at 18. At an age where youth are authorized to make such consequential choices, tobacco usage despite its obvious health harms should be their decision, too. More than years after ConAgra blackmailed our state into approving a reduction in taxes for the wealthy, an elimination of the tax on some capital gains on stocks and other corporate tax credits, our Legislature is again being lobbied by business interests to get more corporate welfare. This comes at a time when it looks like we will all be paying more sales tax to reduce property taxes. Well, what did we get from ConAgra after approval of LB775 in 1987? Can anyone tell us how many jobs were created, how much of our money they took, or what economic benefit it was to Nebraska? Nope! Confidentiality for them was guaranteed as part of the legislation. Maybe we should go to their headquarters and ask them. Unfortunately, we would have to go to Chicago, where they moved their headquarters along with 1,000 jobs. We do know this: We are still obligated to pay another $454 million under the Nebraska Advantage Act, the successor to LB775, which would bring the total cost to more than $1 billion ("Biz incentives advance," May 3). RACINE A teenage Racine County Jail inmate is in custody for attempted homicide will now face additional charges after reportedly fracturing the skull of another inmate during a fight inside the jail. JaQuale G. Dennis, 17, of the 300 block of Park View Drive, is facing felony counts of battery by a prisoner; battery, causing great bodily harm; and first-degree reckless injury. According to the criminal complaint: At about 7:50 a.m. Sunday, a fight between two inmates was reported at the County Jail, 717 Wisconsin Ave. A deputy responded and found an inmate lying on the ground, surrounded by correctional officers and medical staff. Another inmate, Dennis, was handcuffed in a nearby cell. The injured inmate was transported to Ascension All Saints Hospital, where a deputy noticed a large, softball-sized lump on the back of the prisoners head. A CT scan revealed that the prisoner had a skull fracture and bleeding below the skull. Due to the inmates substantial injuries, he was transported to Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa. The inmate was admitted and kept overnight for observation. Surveillance footage showed Dennis throwing multiple punches at the other inmate, which were reportedly aimed at the back of his head. Dennis is allegedly seen on tape slamming the other inmate to the ground, head first, and then stomping his face while he was unconscious. Dennis was at the Racine County Jail due to an October 2018 incident in which he reportedly set fire to an abandoned Sixth street apartment building with two females inside and threatened their lives. In that case, Dennis is facing two counts of attempted homicide, two counts of false imprisonment, arson of a building and first-degree recklessly endangering safety. As of Tuesday afternoon, Dennis remained in custody on a total of $255,000 in cash bonds for the two cases he is facing, online records show. A preliminary hearing in this case is scheduled for May 15 at the Law Enforcement Center, 717 Wisconsin Ave. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 2 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Disease control division scans media reports to get information about disease outbreak The health desk was set up to prevent the spread of Ebola Virus Disease in the country and other contagious diseases including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, coronavirus. - The Integrated Bar of the Philippines rejected the request of Bikoy for legal help - They said that their decision was based in the NCLA Manual of Operations - IBP incoming president noted that their institution should not be used in any political agenda PAY ATTENTION: Click "See First" under the "Following" tab to see KAMI news on your News Feed The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) denied the request of Peter Joemel Advincula or Bikoy for free legal assistance. KAMI learned from the CNN Philippines that the IBP has released its official statement regarding this matter. The Integrated Bar of the Philippines through its National Center for Legal Aid (NCLA) is declining the request for free legal assistance made by Peter Joemel Advincula (Bikoy), it said in the statement. IBP noted that their decision was based on the standards given in the NCLA Manual of Operations. The institution added that they cannot be biased and side with or oppose any political candidate or party. PAY ATTENTION: Using free basics app to access internet for free? Now you can read KAMI news there too. Use the search option to find us. Read KAMI news while saving your data! As reported by the GMA News Online (author Anna Felicia Bajo), the incoming president of the IBP said that their institution should not be used for any political agenda. "Hindi pa ho tapos ang assessment, aba eh ginamit na ho ang aming tanggapan para mag-press conference. Sa tingin ho namin hindi ho tama 'yun. Bawal gamitin ang IBP sa anumang pamumulitika o pang-aapi ng kahit sino man," Attorney Domingo Cayosa said. As previously reported by KAMI, Bikoy finally revealed his identity to the media. He was the one behind the Ang Totoong Narco List videos that linked the Duterte family and President Rodrigo Dutertes close allies to the drug trade. Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news! Jodi Sta. Maria speaks with HumanMeter about the upcoming romantic drama "Man and Wife" also starring Gabbi Concepcion. Let us take a closer look into the movie shooting process and some details about the collaboration of the two celebrities on KAMI HumanMeter YouTube channel! Source: KAMI.com.gh - Vice Ganda was present in the most recent episode of Its Showtime - He interviewed a contestant and inquired about how she lost 120 pounds - The comedian then talked about his journey to becoming the next Darna PAY ATTENTION: Click "See First" under the "Following" tab to see KAMI news on your News Feed Vice Ganda was successful in his attempt to make a lot of people laugh again with his hilarious revelations about the next Darna. KAMI learned that this happened when the said Kapamilya comedian was hosting the noontime show Its Showtime. Vice and Vhong Navarro were initially discussing about losing weight after a Tawag Ng Tanghalan contestant revealed that she lost 120 pounds due to regular exercise. The former Praybeyt Benjamin star then admitted that he already started exercising because he is preparing for the much-talked-about movie entitled Darna. The multi-awarded comedian also funnily apologized to the auditionees because the screening for the iconic role was just held for formality. Kailangan magsimula na ang aking journey to Darna, he jokingly quipped. Pasensya na doon sa mga pumila pero pinapila lang kayo for formality pero nakapili na po talaga, he added. PAY ATTENTION: Using free basics app to access internet for free? Now you can read KAMI news there too. Use the search option to find us. Read KAMI news while saving your data! Because of this funny revelation, the hosts of Its Showtime were shocked that Vice was tapped to portray the superhero role. The studio audience can also be heard laughing out loud because of the celebritys joke about the iconic character and movie. Here is the video: In a previous article by , Vice said sorry to December Avenue over what happened to their show in Camarines Sur. Vice Ganda is one of the widely-acclaimed actors in the Philippines. He starred in blockbuster movies such as Fantastica, Petrang Kabayo, and Super Parental Guardians. POPULAR: Read more news about Vice Ganda! Enjoyed reading our story? Download KAMI's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Filipino news! Tricky Question: What is kulangot in English? In this video, we have included some of the trickiest questions and interesting challenges! Do you enjoy watching street interviews and listening to different opinions? on HumanMeter! Source: KAMI.com.gh Members of education commission press for making public their report Members of the High-Level National Education Commission have launched a signature drive to put pressure on the Prime Ministers Office to make public a report they had prepared and submitted four months ago. 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. Approximately 170 students in the Goal Oriented Adult Learning program at Western Technical College will be honored at a graduation ceremony on Thursday, May 16 at 7 p.m. at the Lunda Center, 319 7th St. N., La Crosse. Participating graduates will include those from the following programs of instruction: High School Equivalency Diploma, General Education Development, Adult High School, and Alternative High School. The graduation ceremony will feature student speakers Ken Hart, Chenoa Borman, Ira Boykin and Andrea Vassey. The keynote speaker is Amanda Coughlin, a 2010 graduate of the HSED program who also completed her associates degree in the IT/computer support specialist program in 2018. From 2017-18, she also served as Westerns student ambassador. Western offers GOAL programs in eight locations throughout the colleges district. Additional services offered through Westerns Learner Support and Transition Division include English Language Learners classes (ELL), development courses prior to post-secondary training, test preparation, basic skills/review, and high school credit courses. For more information about GOAL courses or to learn about additional programs and services at Western Technical College, call 608.785.9200 or visit the website westerntc.edu. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. May is Historic Preservation Month in Wisconsin, a time to focus our attention on historic places and how to preserve them for the future. Vernon County has lots of historic buildings, and seeing these old buildings, using them, living in them, helps to connect our present day to the past. One of our countys historic places is the former Vernon County Normal School, which today houses the Vernon County Museum. The building was completed and opened for students in 1919, a century ago. Today the Vernon County Normal School building is on the National Register of Historic Places. The story of this building and one of its early teachers will be featured on the Vernon County Historical Societys annual Cemetery Walk. This years Cemetery Walk will be held on Sunday, June 2, at 4 p.m., at the Viroqua Cemetery. The theme of the walk is centennials, including the centennial of the Normal School building. A costumed actor will portray the part of Grace Dinsdale, later Grace Lindemann, who taught at the Normal School from 1912 to 1922. In 1912, when Grace was first hired, the Vernon County Teachers Training School (as it was also called) met on an upper floor of the Viroqua High School building. This school for teaching teachers had begun four years earlier, and by 1912 it was bursting at the seams. Grace became the First Assistant in the fall of 1913, and she and the principal, A.E. Smith, then taught most of the classes for several years. In the fall of 1917, the Vernon County Board voted to construct a school building for the Normal School, so it could move out of the high school and into its own space. The work went slowly because of the war and the influenza epidemic, which both caused shortages of labor and materials. Finally, on September 15, 1919, the brand new Vernon County Normal School building opened up. Grace Dinsdale taught at the school until her marriage to local banker Henry Lindemann in the fall of 1922. Learn more about her life and about the Normal School at the Cemetery Walk on June 2. And heres another date to put on your calendar: Saturday, July 27, will be the date of a Normal School building Centennial Celebration. Well hold an open house at the museum from 1-4 p.m. More details to come. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 House endorses governments policies and programmes as Congress accuses Speaker of siding with ruling party In a rare event in the countrys parliamentary history, the governments policies and programmes were endorsed without the prime minister answering the counter-questions by lawmakers on Tuesday, as the Speaker continued the meeting of the House of Representatives, ignoring the concerns raised by the main opposition. Longtime educator and current Gov. Tony Evers was recognized for his contributions to higher education Tuesday at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Evers received the UW-L Student Associations Higher Education Advocate Award, presented each year to someone who has shown exemplary support for students and colleges in Wisconsin. Ben OConnell, Student Association president, said Evers was deserving not just because of his political advocacy or legislative goals, but because he routinely takes time to talk with students. Its about his willingness to listen to students and interact with them to see what we need and what we want in higher education, OConnell said at Tuesdays award ceremony. He used an example from early December, when the newly elected Evers had lunch with UW-L students. To be honest, students get ignored much of the time by higher elected officials when theres no political affiliation or press involved. In this case, Gov. Evers asked to eat lunch at a table with just students, OConnell said. It was amazing to be able to share our perspectives and what we go through as students with somebody who is an actual governor. UW-L Chancellor Joe Gow said Evers interest in students makes a strong impression and says something about his values. Evers, who served as the state superintendent from 2009 to early 2019, said the UW System is damaged after years of cuts and neglect by the previous administration. One of his priorities as governor, he said, is restoring the states investment in higher education. In his state budget proposal, Evers recommended freezing in-state tuition and awarding UW schools an extra $50 million to make up for the lost revenue. He also backed $1.1 billion in capital projects across the UW System, including $161 million of work at UW-L. Noting Republican opposition to much of his proposed education budget, Evers dug in his heels on Tuesday and encouraged students and faculty to advocate for themselves. Were not going to negotiate against our students, and were not going to negotiate against ourselves, he said. Its our job to make sure students get every dollar they deserve, and not a penny less. OConnell, a graduating senior, underscored the need for capital investments at UW-L and across the UW System, saying that students shouldnt have to go to class in a building that was made in the 1960s, thats crumbling and falling apart. He also thanked Evers for proposing a $50,000 study into student loan debt relief an item that Republicans have struck from their own budget proposal. Even though the Legislature has removed the proposal, we appreciate that Gov. Evers has set a new expectation that we dont have to be in debt for the rest of our lives, OConnell said. Evers, a native of Plymouth, took an unorthodox path to the governors office. He spent the better part of four decades climbing Wisconsins public education ladder, spending time as a teacher and principal in Tomah, as a superintendent in Oakfield and Verona, and as an administrator with the Cooperative Education Service Agency in Oshkosh. After unsuccessful bids in 1993 and 2001, Evers was elected state superintendent in 2009. I think the reason Im getting this award is everybody in the state of Wisconsin believes that whats best for our students is going to be whats best for our state, Evers said. Its always been a top priority for us. Its whats made us strong in the past, and well make sure it continues to be a strength. Kyle Farris can be reached at (608) 791-8234 or kfarris@lacrossetribune.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Kyle_A_Farris. Love 3 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 The steamboat War Eagle pulled into its home port late May 14, 1870. A few hours later, just after midnight May 15, it was engulfed in flames on the Black River just north of downtown La Crosse. Artifacts and a never-before-seen sonar photo of the famous steamboat will be on display Saturday at the Riverside Museum during the La Crosse historical Societys War Eagle Day event. Its a story fit for a Hollywood blockbuster, said organizer Bob Taunt. Theres still stories about the whistles of the boat, theres stories about gold on the boat, theres stories of families who arrived on the boat and lost everything in the fire. Those are all part of our community history, Taunt said. It all started with a leaky barrel of Danforths patent nonexplosive petroleum fluid Doesnt that sound good? Taunt asked and a kerosene lamp. Somehow it flared up theres a number of explanations that we have and so you have these wooden kegs that caught fire, he said. The deckhands did what they usually do with everything from food scraps to trash: they kicked it overboard into the river. Except that there was a barge along the side, and the barrel stuck between the two, Taunt said. The burning barrel was wedged alongside the middle of the War Eagle and they couldnt get it into the water. The flames spread while black clouds of petroleum smoke billowed into the air, and it went fast. It might have burned up the city of La Crosse if the city had been a little closer, Taunt said. Five people died out of the 50 registered passenges, many workers and unknown number of immigrants packed into the first deck. The most well-known are Mary Ulrich and Felix Spiller. Ulrich was an 18-year-old socialite staying in La Crosse with her aunt and uncle for her education. She was headed upriver for her sisters wedding. When she got on the boat, her Uncle John asked the barber of the boat to make sure she got off at the right stop, Taunt said. That barber was Spiller. When the fire broke out, suddenly his job became a matter of life or death, Taunt said. Taunt described Spiller as a hero, who went out of his way to help a stranger in an emergency. He could have said, Hey, I didnt sign on for this. Im saving myself and getting out of here, but he didnt, Taunt said. Spiller helped Ulrich get from her stateroom down through the back of the boat. She tried to jump across to the next boat and fell in the river. He jumped in to try and save her. They were found the next day, both drowned, Taunt said. If You Go What: La Crosse County Historical Society's War Eagle Day When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, with a 1 p.m. program Where: Riverside Museum in Riverside Park Cost: Free Deckhand Tom Greene and Kentucky banker Sanford McBrayer also died. Greene drowned and McBrayer likely died of smoke inhalation. Hes still in the river. They never found his body, Taunt said. The last victim was an elderly woman who drowned. It puzzles me. Ive looked and looked for her name, but she probably was an immigrant. An elderly lady, she probably wouldnt have been traveling by herself, Taunt said. However, if she didnt speak English or her family didnt speak enough English to report her death, her name might be lost forever. The sinking of the War Eagle is connected to a major part of La Crosse history. The steamboat is the reason that La Crosse is here. Steamboats built La Crosse, Taunt said. At the time, the roads were extremely bad, so building materials and many of the people came to La Crosse on the steamboat. The War Eagle was a La Crosse boat. It was very popular, and this fire story was one of the major, major stories of La Crosse history, Taunt said. Theres a romantic appeal to the steamboat era, said La Crosse County Historical Society director Peggy Derrick. It was very short, but it lives on in our imaginations, Derrick said. Steamboats were luxury liners in their day, filled with fine glassware and delicate dishes for the wealthy to use as they traveled up and down the Mississippi River, but they also brought immigrants to the area, took Native Americans away and transported troops during the Civil War. It all ought to be remembered, the good and the bad, so we can learn from it, Derrick said. The artifacts, most of which were recovered by diver Dennis Brandt who died in 2012, are pretty incredible, according to the historical society. Some of this stuff, its amazing it survived, Taunt said. There are metal fixtures, barrels and lamps, as well as the remains of stemware and silverware from the kitchen. Brandt brought up French sardine cans with brass labels, coffee cups, spittoons and pipes, as well as dozens of intact glass bottles. Ive collected antiques for a long time, and Ive never cared for bottles until I saw these, with all the different colors and interesting names on them, Taunt said. The collection includes everything from champagne bottles to Dr. Crooks Wine of Tar, but the standout inclusion are the cathedral bottles, which are unique. I havent found this anywhere on the river north of Kansas City, Taunt said. Not only will people at the event get to see the artifacts for free, but they will also get the chance to watch a video of Brandt discussing his experience diving for War Eagle artifacts, hear Mayor Tim Kabat read a proclamation and see a sonar scan done by the Wisconsin Historical Society. People will be able to see the whole wreck, and frankly, its the first time in 149 years that anyone has seen the whole thing. Weve seen pictures, weve seen pieces, but well be able to see the underwater image of whats left of it, Taunt said. Jourdan Vian can be reached at jvian@lacrossetribune.com or follow her on Twitter at @Jourdan_LCT. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. UW-Madison is one of a handful of universities in the Big 10 that do not require students to get the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. But with measles outbreaks in several other states, university health officials are discussing whether their vaccination recommendation to students should be a requirement. Eleven other Big 10 institutions Purdue, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, Ohio State, Penn State, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Northwestern and Rutgers make clear on their websites that the measles vaccine is required, though some universities note exemptions allowing students with religious beliefs or medical reasons to opt out of immunizations. Like UW-Madison, Michigan State and the University of Michigans websites say the vaccine is recommended. Measles cases have climbed to the countrys highest level since 1994, though no cases have been reported in Wisconsin, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Medical experts attribute the resurgence largely to misinformation about vaccines. A purported link to autism that has since been debunked sparked an anti-vaccination movement in the early 2000s and children born during that time period are beginning to enter college. Bill Kinsey, director of medical services for UW-Madisons University Health Services (UHS), said he has not seen a significant effect of the anti-vaccination movement in this years new students, but its something he and other health officials will monitor in coming years. We are always on alert and monitoring, not only for measles, but any communicable disease outbreak on campus, Kinsey said. We track those numbers day by day and week by week. State law requires K-12 students to show that they have received the required immunizations, though its also one of 17 states that grants an exemption for those who object to being immunized because of personal or moral beliefs. The percentage of Wisconsin children receiving at least one dose of the measles vaccine by 24 months has held steady at about 85 percent for the last six years, according to the state Department of Health Services. Between 85 and 95 percent of a population needs to be immunized in order to protect vulnerable populations and to keep diseases from spreading, experts say. For Wisconsin students, most have cleared the bar, Kinsey said. UHS encourages, but does not require, students to upload their immunization records on file for UHS staff to access in case of an outbreak. More than 90 percent of students do so, and the submitted records show about 90 percent of students are vaccinated, according to the most recent UHS data, which are a few years old. UW-Madisons vaccination recommendation has been in place since Kinsey joined UHS in 2016, though its a topic he said benefits from constant reassessment. In discussions with other university medical directors, Kinsey learned some institutions that require vaccines impose restrictions for example, placing a hold on course registration until students provide immunization records. But other institutions with vaccination requirements place no penalties on students who do not comply. Madison Area Technical College also strongly recommends, but does not require, students to receive vaccinations, except for those in health-related programs where they may come into contact with patients. MATC does not collect student vaccination records, except for those in programs where vaccines are required, according to MATC health educator Anna Marie Hoffmann. Both MATC and UW-Madison offer vaccines at their clinics for a fee. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Republican legislators on Tuesday sought to push forward a series of contentious abortion-related bills unlikely to survive Gov. Tony Evers veto pen. The bills, some of which are slated for a vote in the Assembly next week, range from one that could impose a life sentence on a doctor who intentionally allows the death of a baby born alive after an attempted abortion, to another that would attempt to thwart abortions based on fetal attributes such as race, gender or health condition. During an Assembly public hearing, Democrats and health care professionals slammed the several pieces of legislation for spreading what they called false and dangerous information about abortions and creating unnecessary and redundant protections. Republicans said they were seeking more protections for the unborn and providing more information to mothers about alternatives to abortion. The heightened tensions come as the states budget-writing committee is set to remove Evers proposal to expand Medicaid in the state, prompting Democrats to call the abortion bills a distraction. The highest-profile abortion-related bill that received a hearing Tuesday got national attention after President Donald Trump used incendiary language at a Green Bay rally last month to blast Evers for vowing to veto it. Evers said Trumps contention that doctors execute babies was a blasphemy and said Republicans should support his Medicaid expansion proposal if they want to ensure babies wellness. The proposed born-alive legislation would make intentionally causing the death of a child born alive as a result of an abortion or an attempted abortion a felony with a penalty of life imprisonment, the same penalty as first-degree intentional homicide. The bill, of which Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke, R-Kaukauna, is the lead sponsor, would require a health care provider present in the case where a fetus survives an abortion or abortion attempt to exercise the same degree of professional skill, care and diligence to preserve the life and health of the child as would be given to any other child born alive at the same gestational age. Steineke and Senate President Roger Roth, R-Appleton, the bills lead sponsor in the Senate, argued the legislation removes ambiguity surrounding how a doctor should treat a child who survives an attempted abortion. Unless youre completely OK with there being gray areas or no penalties, no specific penalties in place, nothing specified in statute, I dont understand why anybody would oppose this, Steineke told the Assembly committee. Whats the harm? Democrats and health care professionals slammed the legislation for being a solution in search of a problem. Representative, it is already illegal here in Wisconsin, said Rep. Lisa Subeck, D-Madison, in one exchange with the Republican sponsors. Homicide is illegal. The constitution already affords those protections, so this bill is unnecessary and redundant. Subecks concerns were echoed by Dr. Kathy Hartke, who testified against the bill on behalf of the Wisconsin Section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. This is irresponsible and dangerous, Hartke said. The idea that physicians deliver, and then kill, or neglect treating, a viable fetus is unfounded and dangerous information. Cases in which a fetus is born alive after an abortion attempt appear to be extremely rare. State-level data on how many fetuses survive abortion attempts are not tracked by the state Department of Health Services. Steineke has cited data from the National Center of Health Statistics that show a fetus survived an abortion in at least 143 cases nationally, and as many as 588, between 2003 and 2014. During that period there were 9.3 million abortions, of which roughly 1.3 percent occurred after 21 weeks gestation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Critics say state law now prevents the types of very late-term abortions to which the bill would apply. A federal law also provides legal protections to all babies born alive, including after an abortion attempt. Dipesh Navsaria, a Madison pediatrician and vice president of the Wisconsin chapter of the American Academy of Pediatricians, has slammed rhetoric from Trump that physicians are executing babies born alive after abortion attempts. No one is executing babies, period, Navsaria said. Thats not happening. Despite the measures low chances of becoming law, anti-abortion activists say the bills are important to bring public awareness to the issue. Lawmakers Tuesday heard from the public on a number of other abortion-related measures that have irritated Democrats. One would prohibit a person from performing an abortion if he or she knew the woman was seeking an abortion solely because of the race, color, national origin, ancestry or sex of the unborn child or solely because the unborn child has been diagnosed with or has a potential diagnosis of Down syndrome or another congenital disability. Another bill would, among other things, require a doctor to inform a woman seeking a drug-induced abortion that the ingestion of the first drug in the abortion-inducing drug regimen may not result in an immediate abortion and that, if the woman changes her mind after ingesting the first drug, the woman may be able to continue the pregnancy. Medical professionals have disputed such a contention, while Republicans say its important for women to know they may have a second chance to save their baby. Hartke on Tuesday said such so-called abortion reversal treatments are not based on science and do not meet clinical standards. Politicians should never mandate treatments or require that physicians tell patients inaccurate information, she said. Unfounded legislative mandates represent dangerous political interference and compromise patient care and safety. Another proposal would cut off Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 6 The last thing the world needs is more of Robert Mueller's commentary, but Congress is determined to have him hold forth at a public hearing. It's not as though we don't already have the special counsel's version of events. He mustered enormous investigate resources and took two years to write a 400-page report that is available to the public and presumably carefully written (although not necessarily carefully thought through). That should be enough for Mueller to stand on, and enough for Congress to make a decision to impeach or not impeach, or otherwise dispose of the matter as it sees fit. Instead, Mueller is going to be asked to expand on his already-expansive report that not only blew through Justice Department regulations, but inverted the long-standing burden of proof in the Anglo-American legal tradition. As a prosecutor, Mueller's job -- his sole job, really -- was to decide whether or not the president was guilty of a crime. He declined to do this, choosing instead to write a nearly 200-page volume on obstruction cataloging what he found in the course of not making the only decision he was supposed to make. The relevant regulations say that at the conclusion of the special counsel's work he or she "shall provide the Attorney General with a confidential report explaining the prosecution or declination decisions reached by the Special Counsel." On obstruction, Mueller reached no such decision, and he didn't write a confidential report, either -- his report was clearly meant for public consumption. Besides that, he's a stickler for the rules. "Mueller's action," Jack Goldsmith of Harvard Law School writes at the website Lawfare, "seems inconsistent with what the regulations tried to accomplish, which was to prevent extra-prosecutorial editorializing." Worse, as Trump's special counsel Emmet Flood set out in an excoriating letter, by stipulating that the evidence prevented him "from conclusively determining that no criminal conduct occurred," Mueller stood the presumption of innocence on its head. By Mueller's standard, the prosecutor doesn't have to prove guilt -- the target has to prove innocence. And if the target doesn't, he will be disparaged in a long-form quasi-indictment spelling out why he's not exonerated. If anyone not named Donald J. Trump were subjected to this new prosecutorial standard, it would occasion widespread comment and -- one hopes -- consternation. There is, no doubt, public value in Mueller's report, but he wasn't supposed to be a free-floating ombudsman or truth commission. If Congress wanted to create one of those and charge it with running down every lead related to Trump's alleged obstruction, it could have. Under the regulations, though, the special counsel is only "to exercise all investigative and prosecutorial functions of any United States Attorney." Now, Congress wants Mueller to compound the offense by speaking publicly. It doesn't want facts from him. They are already in the report. It wants opinions and sound bites, especially any embarrassing to the president. Congress wants him to spend a couple of high-profile hours further "not exonerating" the president. If Mueller had a proper understanding of his role, he would decline the congressional invitation, and perhaps write a letter giving his version of events regarding his interactions with Attorney General William Barr, which became such a flashpoint last week. But the fact is that Mueller and Congress have a symbiotic relationship. For two years, Mueller was acting as, in effect, the lead counsel for an impeachment inquiry -- bizarrely housed within the executive branch -- while Congress wants to use his moral authority as a crutch at a time when it is vulnerable to charges of partisan overreaching. This, too, is not supposed to be how the system works. But we are long beyond anyone caring. For a swath of the political world and much of the media, all that matters is that Mueller "not exonerate" Trump, and the more, the better, in whatever format or forum. Syndicated columnist Rich Lowry can be reached at comments.lowry@nationalreview.com. Love 0 Funny 3 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 A weekend ago in Green Bay, in reference to a bill (which Gov. Tony Evers says he will veto) requiring doctors to support babies born alive after an abortion or attempted abortion procedure, President Trump said, The baby is born. The mother meets with the doctor. They wrap the baby beautifully, and then the doctor and the mother determine whether or not they will execute the baby. Imagine anyone making such a false and misleading statement, and then consider that it was spoken by the president of the United States. In my almost 40 years as a pediatrician, Ive been in delivery rooms hundreds of times, and in every instance, doctors and nurses have worked for two purposes: to support the life of the baby, and to support the life of the mother. The president has now added doctors, nurses, and mothers to the long list of good people he has insulted. The country deserves a commander/supporter/consoler-in-chief who brings the country together rather than one who tears it apart. Richard Strauss, La Crosse Love 6 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 4 Angry 0 Nepal should not backslide on human rights Since the end of the Maoist conflict more than a decade ago, Nepali authorities have pledged to build a vibrant, democratic, and open society. But their actions, including several pieces of legislation currently before parliament, seem to be an attempt to dilute and undermine fundamental civil and political rights. Your tax-deductible gift today powers our reporters and keeps us independent. We rely on you, our reader, not paywalls to stay funded because we believe important news and information should be freely accessible to all. Start your day with LAist Sign up for the Morning Brief, delivered weekdays. Subscribe Remember the end of the Los Angeles teachers strike? School district officials, teachers union leaders, even the mayor all stood together at a podium at City Hall and proclaimed with one voice: the L.A. Unified School District needs more money. One plan to raise that money is a measure on the June 4 ballot to enact a parcel tax -- a type of property tax. But a last-minute change to the text of the proposal, Measure EE, has now prompted a lawsuit that could jeopardize the district's plans to create a new source of funding to pay for the settlement that ended the strike. The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, which opposes tax increases, announced Tuesday it is suing to block Measure EE. The suit says LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner ordered a significant change to the ballot language after the school board had already voted to send Measure EE to the ballot. The lawsuit names as defendants both the L.A. Unified School Board and L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk Dean Logan, who, the lawsuit asserts, might have prevented the controversy by refusing to grant Beutner's request for a change without a new school board vote. "This lawsuit has no merit," said LAUSD general counsel David Holmquist. "The conversation should be about the need to adequately fund our local schools." "None of this is legitimate," said Yusef Robb, a spokesman of the Yes on EE campaign. "This is a political smear mounted by conservative corporate interests." LAUSD board members voted Tuesday on a resolution aimed at clarifying some of the confusion: Still, two attorneys who focus on property tax issues said the district made mistakes in the process of sending Measure EE to the ballot -- mistakes that could now, at minimum, leave the revenue-generating measure in legal limbo. (Both spoke to KPCC/LAist before news of the lawsuit broke.) "This casts a legal pallor," said UC Davis law professor Darien Shanske, "that possibly, theoretically, could prevent [Measure EE] from getting voted on -- or if it did get voted on, could still get it tied up in court." WHAT IS THE CONTROVERSY ABOUT? At issue: the types of structures that would be subject to Measure EE's 16-cent-per-square-foot parcel tax. The ballot language board members approved in February didn't clearly address this point. Certainly homes would be taxed -- but what about pools, storage sheds, parking lots, or other structures? So after the vote, Superintendent Austin Beutner ordered the legalese changed. In making this change, Measure EE opponents say LAUSD officials overstepped, making more properties subject to the parcel tax without a vote of the school board. Here's the ballot language the school board approved on Feb. 28, which called for a tax on all "habitable main square footage": Pasadena-based attorney Kevin Moore said the word "habitable" is "a vague and ambiguous term" that would be meaningless to the L.A. County Assessor's Office. "It's a term they don't really use in the property tax world," said Moore, who has handled property tax cases for business clients for around 15 years. "Your guess is as good as mine as to what it was going to apply to." So after the board's Feb. 28 vote, Beutner ordered the ballot language changed to remove the word "habitable." The revised language called for a parcel tax on "all buildings or structures erected on or affixed to the land": "The discrepancy has a huge impact on the nature of the text," said Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. "Voters have a right to know what they are voting on and, if it is a tax measure, the extent to which they are taxed." The lawsuit "seeks an order stopping the counting of the ballots as well as the certification of the election results," according to a press release from the association. WHAT THIS ALL MEANS Both Shanske and Moore said this new language -- taken literally -- would mean a much broader range of properties could be subject to the Measure EE parcel tax. The question is whether Beutner had the authority to make such a change and whether he strayed from the school board's wishes in placing a broader parcel tax measure on the ballot. "I think it goes beyond the scope of what the board voted for," Moore said. "In fact, from what I've read, the board intended it to be limited." "When Mr. Beutner removed the word 'habitable,'" Moore added, "that it's going to apply to all buildings and structures, that goes beyond just clarifying; it goes against what the board was trying to do." Shanske differed slightly, saying it wasn't necessarily clear that Beutner strayed from his mandate to carry out the school board's wishes. Shanske -- who, again, spoke to KPCC/LAist before the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association announced the lawsuit -- said it wasn't even clear that the error would doom Measure EE in court. Shanske said judges recognize local governments make mistakes and, so long as they're acting in good faith, deserve a chance to remedy those mistakes. But Shanske said the discrepancy will nonetheless "cast a cloud" over Measure EE's future. "It's an own-goal by the school board," Shanske said. "Clearly, this is an irregularity. You don't usually have to correct the ballot language that the school board approved." DAMAGE CONTROL ATTEMPTS On Tuesday, school board members passed a resolution "confirm[ing] its intent" to exclude parking lots and garages from the parcel tax. The resolution was set for a vote before news of the lawsuit emerged. It's not clear what effect that vote will have. Mail-in ballots for Measure EE have already gone out. "This resolution is yet another illustration that the LAUSD cannot be trusted and that this property tax measure was rushed onto the ballot," read a statement from Tracy Hernandez, a leader of the campaign against Measure EE and CEO of the L.A. County Business Federation, or "BizFed." Hernandez added: "Why does the board think it can amend the text of Measure EE less than four weeks before the election? The truth is: they can't." Robb, the Yes on EE spokesman, called opponents' response "nonsense from a campaign led by corporate lobbyists whose clients simply do not want to pay their fair share." Beutner also issued a statement of his own: "The conversation about Measure EE should be about the imperative to adequately fund local public schools in all of the communities we serve. Let's not be distracted from this imperative." Your tax-deductible gift today powers our reporters and keeps us independent. We rely on you, our reader, not paywalls to stay funded because we believe important news and information should be freely accessible to all. Start your day with LAist Sign up for the Morning Brief, delivered weekdays. Subscribe Uber's estimated $90 billion stock market debut later this week is about to make a lot of investors rich -- but not its drivers. Los Angeles drivers went on strike Wednesday, joining protesters in cities across the country to call for better pay and working conditions ahead of the company's highly anticipated IPO on Friday. Protesters have been out since 5am. Pizza is keeping them going. pic.twitter.com/EWMLrvtpT5 David Wagner (@radiowagner) May 8, 2019 Local organizers expected more than 4,000 drivers to turn off their apps for 24 hours. The day of the protest, many drivers at LAX were not participating in the strike, continuing to drop off and pick up passengers. Travelers at LAX's app pickup zone were still hailing rides. Some weren't sure that the strike was happening. That's why some drivers were trying to spread the word earlier in the week from behind their steering wheels. "We need as many people on board with this as possible," said Laurel Hirschmann, a driver based in the Miracle Mile area. While driving two tourists from England to Universal Studios on Monday, Hirschmann asked, "Are you aware that Uber and Lyft drivers are going to be protesting?" Passenger Joanne Robinson hadn't heard about the strike. She said ditching Uber on Wednesday would be a challenge, because they need to get to the airport. "Our first choice would be Uber," Robinson said. "Obviously we've got suitcases and luggage." Hirschmann told them that Uber recently cut per-mile pay for drivers in L.A. by 25%. She said that she's driving more than ever, but earning less. She listed the drivers' demands: $17 per hour after expenses, along with a bill of rights including more transparency around driver deactivations and an elected driver representative on each company's board of directors. After hearing Hirschmann out, Robinson said she'd think about taking a shuttle to the airport instead. "You want the person driving you happy," she said. Hirschmann started driving for Uber in late 2017 after undergoing two back surgeries. By the time she recovered, her work as an interior designer had dried up and she needed another source of income. At first, according to Hirschmann, the pay was OK. Uber used to have better incentives and bonuses that boosted driver pay, she said. But now, after she subtracts the cost of driving, Hirschmann said she's making less than L.A.'s $13.25 minimum wage, and she's struggling to pay her rent. "It's scary, because I'm making less and less money," Hirschmann said. "I'm really in a quandary about what to do next." As companies like Uber have grown, average monthly revenue for drivers has declined by about half throughout the country, according to a recent study from the JPMorgan Chase Institute. "It's actually one of the most important findings in our study," said Diana Farrell, the institute's president. In L.A., average monthly revenue for drivers is down by 54 percent since 2013. Farrell said much of that decline can be chalked up to the average driver spending less time driving. However, some full-time drivers blame Uber and Lyft for eating into their bottom line. One thing is clear from the research: Cities with a high cost of living have more people driving. "We measured the cost of living as, how many hours would you have to work to pay the median rent, at the median wage," Farrell said. By that measure, people in L.A. face the highest cost of living among the 27 cities studied for the report. Workers earning the median wage in L.A. would need to work 102 hours in a month to earn the city's median rent, more than in other high-cost cities like San Francisco (84 hours) and New York (89 hours). Given L.A.'s expensive housing, Farrell said it's no surprise that more and more people are driving in L.A. Joyce Beebe, a research fellow at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy, is skeptical that protests will spur Uber executives to make the kind of changes drivers are asking for. "As to whether they will accomplish higher pay right after the protest, to be honest, I don't think so," Beebe said. She said companies like Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors because it's 20% to 30% cheaper than hiring them as employees and having to provide benefits, pay overtime and follow minimum wage laws. Going public will put new pressure on Uber to turn a profit. Given that, Beebe said protesters shouldn't count on the company to change their employment status. "I think the best thing they can hope for is to get the lawmakers' attention," Beebe said. One bill currently moving through the California state legislature, AB 5, would push companies to stop treating drivers as independent contractors. Uber declined an interview for this story, but provided a brief statement via email. "Drivers are at the heart of our service we can't succeed without them," an Uber spokesperson wrote. "We'll continue working to improve the experience for and with drivers." Driver Laurel Hirschmann attended the protest at LAX. She said if drivers' demands aren't met, she plans to keep talking to her passengers about the changes she and other drivers want to see. The future of education The government needs to release the education reform report so that a larger discourse may begin As reported in the news, during an interview with Marietta Daily Journal on May 5, 2019, NRA President Carolyn Meadows stated CBC Member Congresswoman Lucy McBath won her congressional seat because she is a minority female. Congresswoman Karen Bass, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement in response: Lets be clear, NRA President Carolyn Meadows recent comment regarding Congresswoman McBath is nothing more than the same old rhetoric from decades of racially charged scare tactics, said Chairwoman Bass. The NRAs pro-gun agenda still remains overwhelmingly unpopular with the American people. For years the NRA has turned its back on Black Americans like Congresswoman McBath who have lost their loved ones to senseless gun violence. Clearly, under Meadows leadership, not much has changed. Congresswoman McBath is a fearless Black woman who fights every day for the constituents of GA-06 and earned her seat through grit, hard-work, and dedication not simply because she is a minority female. Congressmember Lauren Underwood Slams the Trump Administrations Continued Assault on Americans Health Care Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) WASHINGTON Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) responded to the Department of Justices newly filed brief in Texas v. United States, in which the Administration asks the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to strike down protections for people with pre-existing conditions along with every protection and benefit of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As the Administration works to limit access to health care and protections under the ACA, Underwood continues to offer solutions to help improve the ACA and lower healthcare costs for the American people. ADVERTISEMENT This weekend marks two years since House Republicans cruelly celebrated their vote to eviscerate protections for pre-existing conditions take away health care from hard-working Americans. While that effort thankfully failed, this briefing is the latest example of the Trump Administrations relentless attack on Americans access to health care, including undermining protections for people with pre-existing conditions, said Congresswoman Underwood. Illinoisans made it clear that they want a Congress committed to defending the quality, affordable health care their families rely on, as well as safeguarding protections for people with pre-existing conditions, bans on lifetime and annual limits on coverage, and other lifesaving protections for health care. Yet, the Administration is now doubling down on their shameful health care sabotage. We deserve better. Since its full implementation in 2014, the ACA has provided critical protections for the 130 million people in the U.S. with pre-existing conditions, including the 5,471,600 Illinoisans with pre-existing conditions. If the courts agree with the Trump Administrations position, the following provisions would be struck down: Protections for people with pre-existing conditions; The ban on lifetime and annual limits on health coverage; The Medicaid expansion covering 15 million Americans; Health insurance affordability tax credits assisting 9 million Americans; Bans on discriminatory insurance practices that force women to pay more for coverage; Young adults ability to remain on their parents insurance until age 26, and more. In February, Underwood introduced legislation that would help protect Americans with pre-existing conditions by overturning an Administration rule that expands limited duration insurance, commonly known as junk plans. The legislation has been passed by the Energy and Commerce and Education and Labor Committees. Rep. Bass Responds To Trumps Embargo Threat Against Cuba Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.), Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights and International Organizations issued the following statement after President Trump threatened a full and complete embargo, together with highest-level sanctions against Cuba. A full and complete embargo along with high-level sanctions against the nation of Cuba would have disastrous economic consequences and plunge the state of our foreign policy into the time of the Cold War. After 60 years of ineffective policy, it was President Obama who began to repair relations and improve the possibility that the United States would finally have a positive relationship with the island just 90 miles south of the United States. An embargo would be a regrettable development that would be judged harshly by history, just like our first one was. I maintain my position that the U.S. should focus on supporting Venezuelan and regional efforts to bring about a peaceful solution to this crisis by providing humanitarian aid to Venezuelan migrants throughout Latin America and resisting military intervention. ADVERTISEMENT Tuesday, May 7, 2019 A criminal conviction led to disbarment in California for conduct described in the report of the State Bar Court Hearing Department On March 25, 2014, respondent pled guilty to one count of violating Title 8 United States Code section 1324(a)(2)B)(iii) and Title 18 United States Code section 2, bringing an illegal alien to the United States without presentation and aiding and abetting a felony... In February 2014 respondent visited Mexico. While there, he was approached by individuals and asked if he would illegally transport undocumented individuals into the United States in exchange for compensation. Respondent agreed to drive a vehicle across the border with unknown individuals concealed in a secret compartment behind the back seat of the car. On February 20, 2014, respondent picked up a 2000 Lincoln Town Car at a designated location in Tijuana, Mexico. Although the car did not belong to him, respondent was given registration, insurance, and a smog certificate indicating that he was the owner of the car. The undocumented individuals were already secured in a concealed compartment in the undercarriage of the car. Respondent was aware that the undocumented individuals were in the hidden compartment, but he never saw them and they never saw him. Respondent drove the vehicle from Tijuana, Mexico to the United States border. At 4:00 p.m., respondent applied for admission into the United States via the driving lanes at the San Ysidro, California Port of Entry. Respondent was the sole visible occupant of the vehicle. Respondent presented his United States passport and his identity documents to a United States Customs and Border Protection Officer (officer). The officer then asked repondent a series of questions. The officer asked respondent where he was going. Respondent, with the intent to deceive the officer and Violate federal immigration laws, falsely replied that he was going to Anaheim, California. The officer asked respondent what he was doing in Mexico and how long had he been there. Respondent, with the intent to deceive the officer and violate federal immigration laws, falsely replied that he had been visiting his daughter for the day. The officer then asked respondent if he was bringing anything back from Mexico. Respondent, with the intent to deceive the officer and violate federal immigration laws, falsely replied, No. The officer checked respondents crossing history which revealed very few crossings. The officer determined that the vehicle was not registered to respondent. The officer asked respondent if he owned the vehicle and whether it was registered in respondents name. Respondent, with the intent to deceive the officer and violate federal immigration laws, falsely replied that it was his vehicle and that he had owned it for about two months. The officer asked respondent how long respondents daughter had been living in Mexico. Respondent, with the intent to deceive the officer and violate federal immigration laws, falsely answered that his daughter had lived in Mexico for about two months. The officer then asked respondent to provide the Vehicles registration. Respondent's hands were shaking as he handed the registration to the officer. The officer asked respondent again whether respondent was bringing anything back from Mexico. Respondent again, with the intent to deceive the officer and violate federal immigration laws, falsely stated, No. The officer asked respondent to open the trunk and unlock the doors to the vehicle, which respondent did. The vehicle was inspected and two undocumented men were found in a concealed compartment under the back seat of the car. An unknown third person, not respondent, had positioned the men in the car and placed crushed chili pepper on their hands and feet to disguise their smell and avoid detection. The men had been bolted into the compartment and were unable to free themselves. To access the individuals, the back seat had to be forcefully pulled up and three bolts removed. The two men were found unharmed. The two undocumented men where interviewed and stated that they entered the Vehicle voluntarily with the desire to obtain entry to the United States. The had arranged payment to secure their passage. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2019/05/a-criminal-conviction-led-to-disbarment-in-february-2014-respondent-visited-mexico-while-there-he-was-approached-by-indivi.html Wednesday, May 8, 2019 The Rhode Island Supreme Court affirmed an order dismissing the complaint of a suspended attorney and imposing sanctions This case stems from a dispute about legal fees between plaintiff, who is currently a suspended Rhode Island attorney, and the defendant, Cynthia Hanssen. In the course of that dispute, on January 9, 2012, plaintiff first noticed the deposition of Ms. Hanssens counsel. On March 21, 2012, a protective order was granted preventing that deposition. In spite of the existence of that protective order, over two years later, on November 6, 2014, Mr. Fishbein moved to disqualify Ms. Hanssens counsel so that he could call him as a witness at trial. The hearing justice found that the motion to disqualify had no basis whatsoever and that it was filed to harass or cause unnecessary delay and clearly increase the cost of litigation. As a result, the hearing justice imposed sanctions in the amount of $5,000 against Mr. Fishbein. Mr. Fishbein failed to pay those sanctions, despite having been found to have the ability to pay and having been given several months to do so. Accordingly, the hearing justice dismissed Mr. Fishbeins complaint pursuant to Rule 41(b)(2) of the Superior Court Rules of Civil Procedure. Ms. Hanssens counterclaim in this case remains pending in Superior Court. With respect to the first issue raised on appeal (viz., whether or not Mr. Fishbeins conduct was sanctionable), it is our view that Mr. Fishbein has waived that issue on appeal. While he includes a lengthy fact section in his filing before this Court, he does not set forth any discussion of the issue in the analysis section of that filing, nor does he cite to any legal authority to support his contentions. As such, the first argument is waived. See Terzian v. Lombardi, 180 A.3d 555, 558 (R.I. 2018) (It has been our consistent policy that simply stating an issue for appellate review, without a meaningful discussion thereof or legal briefing of the issues * * * constitutes a waiver of that issue.) (brackets and internal quotation marks omitted). Turning to Mr. Fishbeins contention with respect to the amount of the sanctions leveled against him, we note that he avers that the hearing justice did not find that he had an ability to pay the sanctions by the specified date and that he was entitled to an evidentiary hearing on his ability to pay. However, the hearing justice specifically found in the order and judgment on appeal that Mr. Fishbein was able to pay as ordered. What is more, even assuming arguendo that an evidentiary hearing on the ability to pay was required (an issue we deliberately choose not to pass upon), it is clear from this Courts thorough perusal of the record that such a hearing was in essence held on both May 18 and June 18, 2015. Mr. Fishbein further contends that there was no evidence that the time records kept by Ms. Hanssens counsel were contemporaneous or that Ms. Hanssen actually incurred the charges. But Mr. Fishbein failed to file a single affidavit or any other evidence contesting the amount of fees in Superior Court, even when specifically invited to do so by the hearing justice at a February 4, 2015 hearing. As such, the hearing justice did not err in awarding $5,000 in sanctions based on opposing counsels affidavit as to the fees incurred and the affidavit of attorney Paul V. Gallogly attesting to the fact that the fees were fair and reasonable. This one's for Paul Burgoyne if he is still reading in retirement from the classic movie The Fortune Cookie in the opening negotiations between counsel William H. "Whiplash Willie" Gingrich: That so? What about Fishbein v. the Empire State Building? O'Brien: What about it? William H. "Whiplash Willie" Gingrich: You'll find it in Volume 16, New York Supplement Two, Page 45, 1900 and 39. A window washer, 61st floor. The safety belt broke and -[Willie makes the motion and sound of someone falling.] Thompson: As a window washer, Mr. Fishbein was taking a normal occupational risk. William H. "Whiplash Willie" Gingrich: The window washer's name was Jones. Mr. Fishbein was a pedestrian walking innocently down 34th Street, and the next thing he knew, he was splattered all over the sidewalk. The widow sued, was awarded $85,000. Case appealed, judgement upheld. Volume 259, Appellate Division, page 56. Also Volume 24, New York Supplement Two, page 168, 1900 and 40. O'Brien: Maybe in New York, they throw money around like that. William H. "Whiplash Willie" Gingrich: All right, what about Mrs. Cunningham v. Baltimore and Ohio Railroad? US District Court, Eastern District of Ohio, Number eighty-nine twenty-seven. Mrs. Cunningham, en route to Cincinnati to visit dying uncle, gets trapped in the toilet on account of a faulty lock. The car is hitched to another train. Mrs. Cunningham winds up in San Bernardino, California. By this time, the uncle is dead, and she's cut of the will. So, she sues the railroad for damages. Does this ring a bell? Thompson: Never heard of it. William H. "Whiplash Willie" Gingrich: You mean, none of you has? Because you gentlemen represented the railroad. O'Brien: We did? William H. "Whiplash Willie" Gingrich: And lost the case. Indeed. (Mike Frisch) https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2019/05/the-rhode-island-supreme-court-affirmed-an-order-dismissing-the-complaint-of-a-suspended-attorney-and-imposing-sanctions-thi.html In order to continue enjoying our site, we ask you enter in the text you see in the image below so we can confirm your identity as a human. Thank you very much for your cooperation. About 10 percent of public school students in the United States are English language learners. In some states, that number is much higher. In California, for example, 38 percent of students enter the public school system as English learners. Overall, about 21 percent of California public school students are considered English learners. For years, these students had few chances to receive a bilingual education or take special classes for English learners. In 1998, California voters passed a measure that ended many programs for English language learners, in favor of English-only education. The measure was known as Proposition 227, or the English in Public Schools measure. In November 2016, that measure was overturned. Today, California public schools are working to bring in and expand bilingual offerings. However, progress has been slow. School systems across the state say they simply do not have enough qualified, bilingual educators to serve their students. California is not alone in this struggle. Thirty other states and the District of Columbia report shortages of teachers in the areas of bilingual instruction and English as a Second Language. Observers fear a continued shortage will further harm English learners chances for a meaningful education. But there are national and local efforts underway to find solutions. We talk about those today. First, we will discuss the population involved. Americas English language learners An estimated five million students in the country are considered English language learners, or ELLs. Such students are the fast-growing group in U.S. public schools. Last month, the Council of Great City Schools published its latest findings on English learners. The report looked at several conditions for English learners attending public schools in 74 major U.S. cities. In its report, the council defines English learners as between the ages of 3 and 21; whose native language is not English; and whose difficulties in reading, speaking and understanding English are enough to keep them from having success in the classroom. The most commonly spoken languages among ELLs in America are Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Haitian Creole and Vietnamese. Speakers of those five languages make up 92 percent of all ELLs included in the councils report. Methods for teaching ELLs English learners can enroll in one of several kinds of programs, depending on where they live. There are transitional programs, in which students are mostly taught in their native language but also receive English training. And there are structured programs, which offer students almost all classroom teaching in English. These kinds of programs do not always permit students to become skilled at writing and reading in their own language, however. There are also so-called dual-language immersion programs. These programs offer instruction in two languages -- English and another language. Research has shown that English learners do best in dual-language programs, especially if the second language is their own mother tongue. This is not a usual education model in Americas public schools, however. A 2017 study by the Rand corporation estimated that the US has between 1,000 and 2,000 dual language immersion programs. By comparison, the United States has over 130,000 schools serving kindergarten through 12th-grade students. The lack of high-quality bilingual programs is clear when considering student outcomes. Nationally, about 83 percent of students complete their high school education. But the graduation rate among English learners is far lower 65 percent. The case in California Before Proposition 227 passed in 1998, 30 percent of Californias 1.3 million English learners took part in bilingual programs. But in the years after, only 5 percent were able to take part in such programs. This information comes from a report released last month by Education Next. Since the proposition was repealed, schools in California have been hoping to bring back bilingual programs. A 2017 public opinion study found that 58 percent of school districts in the state had plans to add or expand bilingual programs. However, 86 percent of those districts said the shortage of bilingual teachers was slowing those plans. Experts and school administrators told Education Next that school systems in California are stealing each others teachers. To compete, many systems in the state now offer extra money for teachers with bilingual skills. More districts growing their own teachers School systems across the country sometimes look for bilingual educators internationally. But education experts and policy organizations say there are ways for states to find and train new teachers in their local communities. One method involves growing more educators within their community. This is called grow your own or GYO. New America is a policy organization based in Washington, D.C. Its Education Policy team carries out research meant to strengthen Americas educational system. It says "grow your own" programs can both fix teacher shortages in states and increase the racial and linguistic diversity among teachers. It adds that local teacher candidates are more likely than overseas teachers to stay in the system. This saves schools money and resources over time. This spring, New America released a list of "grow your own" guidelines for schools and states to follow. It advised states to offer a mix of ways for bilingual teacher candidates to receive necessary certifications. It also suggested training local candidates even if they do not have a college degree. [A complete list of its suggested policies and practices can be seen here.] Reaching English Learners Act Congressional lawmakers are also among those looking for ways to find and train bilingual teacher candidates. Last year, several lawmakers introduced a bill meant to address the shortage of educators qualified to teach English learners. The bill is called the Reaching English Language Learners Act. If passed, the bill would give grants to colleges and universities to support the development of the next generation of ELL educators. The grant money would go toward developing programs meant to make sure teacher candidates have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach English learners. Jim Langevin was among the lawmakers who proposed the bill to the House of Representatives, first in 2018 and again in February. Langevin is a Democratic Party congressman from Rhode Island. The bill has received support from Democrats and Republicans in both houses of Congress. Langevin said the bill would provide critical resources to help English learners and their teachers. Im Caty Weaver And I'm Ashley Thompson. Ashley Thompson wrote this report. Caty Weaver was the editor. Do students in your country learn two or more languages in school? What do you think is the best way to teach English language learners? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the comments section. Quiz - Bilingual Teachers in Short Supply Across America Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story qualified - adj. having the necessary skill, experience, or knowledge to do a particular job or activity bilingual - n. able to speak and understand two languages district - n. an area or section of a country, city, or town transitional - adj. changed from one state or condition to another immersion - n. a method of learning a foreign language by being taught entirely in that language graduation - n. the act of receiving a diploma or degree from a school, college, or university : the act of graduating diversity - n. the quality or state of having many different forms, types, ideas, etc. grant - n. an amount of money that is given to someone by a government, a company, etc., to be used for a particular purpose (such as scientific research) You might have heard that more than 300 election workers died during Indonesias recent presidential and legislative election. The deaths were blamed on conditions related to exhaustion -- the state of being tired, either mentally or physically. One of those who died was Umar Madi, a 64-year-old election official in West Java. His job was to keep watch on the voting and count ballots. His daughter Evi Erwiyati said that a stroke was listed as the official cause of death. But her father also suffered from heart conditions that, at the time, were under control. She noted, My mother would bring him medications, but he didnt stop working. He was happy to do it. Arief Priyo Susanto is an official with Indonesias General Elections Commission, known as the KPU. He confirmed the number of deaths to VOA. He said, Generally, [the cause] is exhaustion. More than 2,000 election workers also reportedly became sick. News of the deaths came as a shock to many Indonesians. The April 17 vote was the first time Indonesia held both presidential and legislative elections at the same time. The first democratic presidential election took place in 2004. This year as many as 193 million people voted at more than 810,000 voting stations nationwide. Early quick count election results show the current president, Joko Widodo, leading his opponent, former military commander Prabowo Subianto. Titi Anggraini is the executive director of the monitoring group Association for Elections and Democracy. She said the $35 that Umar Madi was paid for monitoring the elections and counting the ballots by hand is not enough. She added that having both presidential and legislative elections at the same time was partly responsible for the deaths of so many officials. This year, the KPU lowered the minimum age for elections officials from 25 to 17. It also reduced the number of voters permitted in a single voting center. These rules were meant to reduce the workload for each election official. Yet as Titi noted, it made no difference, since there are also problems with insufficient ballots, and the number of political parties and representatives went up as well. Arief of the KPU told VOA the most the government pays for relatives of the fallen officials is about $2,100. On April 23, the health ministry told hospitals and other health centers to give the greatest care to the sick officials. Concerns over holding the presidential and legislative elections on the same day have led to talk of changes in future votes. Ace Hasan Syadzily is a spokesman for Joko Widodos election campaign team. He said We have to evaluate the simultaneous elections, especially with regards to the execution. Speaking to reporters, he expressed sympathy for the election workers who died. He said, I think {these officials} are a warrior of democracy. The KPU will finish the vote counting process on May 22. Im Jonathan Evans. Stanley Widianto reported this story for VOA News. Jonathan Evans adapted it for Learning English. The editor was George Grow. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story insufficient adj. not having or providing enough of what is needed; not sufficient minimum n. the lowest number or amount that is possible or allowed monitor(ing) v. to watch, observe, listen to, or check something for a special purpose over a period of time simultaneous adj. happening at the same time Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar for their reporting on the countrys Rohingya crisis have been freed. The reporters - Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo smiled and waved to a crowd after leaving a Yangon prison Tuesday morning. I want to say that I am very happy today. I want to thank our friends and families who were trying for our freedom and also to those from all over the world who sympathized with us, said Wa Lone. He added: I am really excited to see my family and colleagues. I cant wait to go to my newsroom. Two weeks ago, Myanmars Supreme Court rejected a final appeal seeking to have the pairs prison sentences overturned. Their release Tuesday was part of a presidential amnesty involving 6,520 prisoners. Myanmars President Win Myint has approved thousands of amnesties for prisoners in recent weeks. It is common for officials in Myanmar to free prisoners around the time of the traditional New Year, which began on April 17. Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo had spent more than 500 days in detention. The two reporters were arrested in December 2017 and sentenced to seven years in prison last September. They were charged with illegally possessing official documents, a violation of the countrys Official Secrets Act. The documents related to security operations taking place in the western state of Rakhine. In August 2017, suspected Rohingya militants launched attacks against state security forces in Rakhine. In answer, government troops carried out attacks against the rebels and their supporters. About 700,000 Rohingya fled the area to escape the violence. Most are now living in refugee camps in neighboring Bangladesh. The United Nations has described the Myanmar military operation as a well-organized example of ethnic cleansing. Myanmar officials have denied the military carried out human rights abuses. It said the campaign was necessary to defend against attacks by Rohingya militants. The case drew worldwide attention as a media freedom issue. Reuters had said the two men did not commit any crimes and repeatedly called for their release. The case also drew criticism as an example of how democratic reforms have slowed in Myanmar under the civilian government of Nobel Peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who took power in 2016. The leadership change was seen as a hopeful beginning for new, more open government after years of isolation under military rule. Rights groups had repeatedly urged Aung San Suu Kyi to use her influence to intervene in the case, but she chose not to do so. The investigation the journalists were working on was completed by other Reuters reporters and published in 2018. The coverage was awarded a Pulitzer Prize for international reporting. Im Bryan Lynn. Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from Reuters, the Associated Press and Agence France-Presse. 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 sympathize n. to understand and care about someone's problems colleague n. someone you work with amnesty n. a government action that permits prisoners to go free isolation n. the state of being separate from other people, places or things On May 4, Kim Jong Un watched North Korean forces fire a new short-range ballistic missile, experts said. The missile and several other rockets went up and then into the sea off North Korea's east coast. It is North Korea's first ballistic missile test in a year and a half. The launch appears to violate U.N. Security Council resolutions that ban North Korean ballistic missile activity. The office of South Korean President Moon Jae-in said it is "very concerned" the North Korean missile test violates the spirit of the inter-Korean agreements. But U.S. President Donald Trump and other U.S. officials quickly suggested the test was not very important. They said the North did not violate its own promise to stop tests of intercontinental ballistic missiles, or long-range ballistic missiles. However, some experts warn that position could frighten U.S. allies because short-range weapons could still hit South Korea and Japan. North still upset about exercises Robert Carlin is a North Korea scholar writing for the website 38 North. He says the North Korean test was probably a way to show anger toward the South Korean government for continuing joint military exercises with U.S. forces. Last month, Kim called the exercises "hostile acts." North and South Korea did agree last April to stop "all hostile acts" against each other and eliminate the "danger of war." But they never signed an agreement to stop military exercises completely, and drills have continued on both sides. North Korea also blames Moon for not acting on the inter-Korean agreements reached during three meetings over the past year. However, U.S. and international trade limits have prevented Moon from following through on many parts of the agreements. Any time, any place, we can talk The North Korean weapon launch puts additional pressure on Moon. His public approval rating was very high after his first meeting with Kim. Now it is half of what it was. Adding to Moon's problems, South Korea's economy unexpectedly lost value in the first quarter of 2019. A growing number of South Koreans oppose his contact with the North. They see it as unexperienced and unsuccessful. Moon still wants to work with the North. He said last month he would hold a fourth top-level meeting with Kim "any time, any place." Im Jill Robbins. William Gallo reported on this story for VOA News. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. Kelly Kelly was the editor. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story ballistic missile n. a weapon that is shot through the sky over a great distance and then falls to the ground and explodes intercontinental - adj. capable of traveling from one continent to another long-rang adj. relating to or fit for long distances short-range adj. relating to or fit for short distances drill - n. an exercise done to practice military skills or procedures Are you worried about North Korea's missile launches? Write to us in the Comments Section. Poweshiek County Sheriffs Office(BROOKLYN, Iowa) -- As her family celebrates her daughter's birthday, Laura Calderwood wants people to remember Mollie Tibbetts by donating $21 to Mollies Movement, a fundraiser for restoration of the Brooklyn Opera House set up in honor of the late University of Iowa student. Calderwood said she hopes to mobilize the same community that participated in a month-long search for Tibbetts last year when she vanished in July after going out for a jog in her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa. She was found stabbed to death in a field about a month later after a nationwide search. "We are asking people to donate $21 in honor of Mollie and we thought that was a reasonable amount that anybody could participate in," Calderwood told ABC News' Good Morning America in an interview that aired Wednesday, which would have been her daughter's 21st birthday. The fundraiser was launched to remember her daughter's love of theater. "Mollie was very gregarious, welcoming, outgoing -- empathetic. She loved running. She loved theater arts. She loved singing in the shower," Calderwood said. "Mollie was very dedicated to theater arts -- she was in plays." Calderwood said she's had a difficult time accepting her daughter's death, but she tries her best not to feel anger toward Christian Rivera, the accused murderer who led police to Tibbetts' body in August. "It was indescribable and it took a higher power to get me through it, it really did but we got through it," she said. "I don't wanna feel anger. I don't spend a lot of time thinking about it at all." "I mean, people have asked me, you know, 'Will you ever forgive him?' And I said, 'I haven't -- I've gone nowhere near that,'" she added. Calderwood has stayed largely silent in the wake of her daughter's murder, but she said she chose to come forward in an effort to spread more kindness. "I just hope that we've set a good example. And with all the kindness that was given to my family and to the community -- keep that in mind and pay that forward," Calderwood said. "I mean, I received the kindness and now I'm trying to pay that forward." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Informal stores operating via social media are getting away with selling fake products Sadikshya Mishra was idly surfing through Instagrams explore page when she came across a photo of American celebrity Kylie Jenner wearing a high neck crop top with a criss-cross design on the front. The photo, however, was not from Jenners official accountit had been repurposed by a Nepali online retail store, The Next Fashion House. Shelly Garrett always seemed larger than life, which is part of the reason why the news of her death on Tuesday at age 65 from liver failure c From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by Western Interlock Winter may have just begun, but it is not too early to start preparing for the 2019 Strawberry Festival. After weighing among 25 applicants, t There will be an increase in police presence throughout the Greater Albany Public Schools district this week after two incidents indicated a p scholarship, news and new ideas in legal history LEXINGTON Dawson County has been added to an amended version of the major disaster declaration for Nebraska. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, declaration qualifies Dawson County, as well as six other counties, for public assistance grants to help pay for repair and replacement of facilities damaged by the March bomb cyclone, winter conditions and flooding. Dawson has been designated for all public assistance categories for emergency and permanent work. There are currently 76 counties in the state which have been designated for assistance according to the FEMA declaration. Dawson County Emergency Manager Brian Woldt said county officials will be meeting with FEMA on Monday to make a determination how much funds Dawson County needs. Woldt said the county will be requesting close to $600,000 but will be reimbursed 75 percent of this amount by FEMA. Dawson County Roads Superintendent Mark Christiansen said the funds from FEMA will go toward repairing county roads damaged from the storm. The specific items which will be purchased with the funds include crushed concrete and new culverts. GOTHEBURG The owner of a unique location in Gothenburg partially built with timbers of the original Fort McPherson was honored Monday as a Friend of Tourism. Marsha Hecox, owner of Lasso Espresso Co. was presented with the Friend of Tourism Award by the Gothenburg Tourism Committee. The award read in part, In recognition of the impact you have made to the travel and tourism industry and to the lives of the residents of Gothenburg and Gothenburg Chamber of Commerce. Gothenburg Tourism Committee member Ann Anderson said the award is presented to businesses who have promoted people to visit Gothenburg and other businesses in town. Lasso Espresso Co. was one of the stops on the 2018 Nebraska Passport program. At least 749 people stopped in at the coffee shop, these were the people who visited every single stop on list. Hecox said they had to double and triple up on staff during the summer to accommodate the number of visitors they had. She said in addition to the Passport visitors, their proximity to I-80 also nets a large amount of visitors from out of state. LEXINGTON Plans are in the final stages for the 128th Annual LHS Alumni Banquet to be held on Saturday, June 15, 2019 at the Lexington High School west gym at 6 p.m. Tickets went on sale May 1, 2019 at U-Save Gifts for $25 each. The classes ending in 9 are our honor classes this year with St. Anns graduates invited to join us. We have been meeting since November to make plans and assist the honor class representatives with any plans they need help with. We have a few changes with the program this year so we encourage all of you to come and see what they are. The Lexington Chamber is again sponsoring the Orange and Black Parade on Saturday morning at 10 and there will again be tours of the Lexington Middle School and Lexington High School. Our caterer this year is Around the Block Catering by Jolene Block. We do still need servers for the banquet so if you know of a group that would like to raise some money for a project, please give us a call. Our Honor Class Chairpersons this year are: 1949: Marilyn (Wallace) Kring and Don Tomasek 1959: Teresa (Lockhart) Lanman and Larry Smith Marcela Rodriguez, 74, of Lexington, died Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center Bergan Mercy. Mass Of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anns Catholic Church in Lexington with Father Jorge Canela, officiating. Burial will be held at a later date in El Salvador. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Reynolds-Love Funeral Home in Lexington is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements. Please share online condolences with the family by visiting: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com China deal offers Nepal more options for third country trade With Beijing officially allowing Nepal to use a number of its land and sea ports, Nepali traders can now use the transit facility via three countriesIndia, Bangladesh and China. a lot of a fair amount of Yesterday, the Times-Georges-Dotcom informed us that accounting mega-firm Ernst &Young was planning to expand its New Orleans offices. Which, okay, fine. But why were the Mayor and the Governor there to announce it? Gov. John Bel Edwards, Mayor LaToya Cantrell and the economic development group Greater New Orleans Inc. announced the deal, which comes as Ernst & Young is set to mark 100 years in the city. Brian Rotolo, Ernst & Youngs Louisiana managing partner, said in an interview that New Orleans was chosen for the firms expansion because of its long presence in the city, the available talent pool in the metro region, and access to affordable commercial real estate. Everyone on hand emphasized that E&Y had not been granted any of the special incentive payouts or tax breaks that we've grown accustomed to watching state and city officials hand out like Republican Presidents hand out breath mints. So, again, why were they even there? Why does it say they were announcing a "deal"? They must want credit for having done something, right? Maybe they just wanted to throw a property state ceremony to honor such a prestigious international firm. The Danish Business Authority started its investigation into EY last year as the full scale of the Danske scandal became known. Denmarks biggest bank is at the center of a $230 billion Estonian laundering saga that spans the years 2007 to 2015. The financial watchdog has more recently warned that smaller lenders are also at risk of being targeted by launderers, as the biggest banks beef up their compliance efforts. Ernst & Young is on the hook for its work auditing Danskes accounts for 2014. KPMG has been reported to police for its audit of the 2017 annual report of Kobenhavns Andelskasse. Well that part makes sense, at least. If you are looking for a good place to expand your international money laundering operations, New Orleans is a good place to do it. Here's what else New Orleans is a good place for. Comically combative lawyering. The two attorneys were arguing over whether Pittman should increase the bail for a defendant in a domestic violence case, according to a transcript. Spears claimed the accuser had previously been convicted of filing a false police report against his client, but Dover said Spears had no proof of that. "Excuse me, sir. You're a liar," Dover told Spears. "I will punch the (expletive) out of you if you call me a liar again," Spears replied. Dover responded by calling Spears a liar again. Spears raised a fist to Dover, who raised his arm up "in a blocking motion." When Pittman tried to stop the fight, Spears told her he was going to be the bigger man than Dover but also offered to settle the exchange "outside the courtroom." That episode is funny enough as it is. But it's more fun because of the notable status of the players. Dover is a senior prosecutor at the DA's office and a prominent figure in the controversy over its use of "fake subpoenas" Spears is well known local political kingmaker. He's also apparently sorry for almost kicking Dover's butt. "Your Honor, let me first apologize to the court for losing my temper with Mr. Dover, threatening to kick his butt after using profanity in the courtroom. It won't happen again," Spears said. That episode is funny enough as it is. But it's more fun because of the notable status of the players. Dover is a senior prosecutor at the DA's office and a prominent figure in the controversy over its use of "fake subpoenas" Spears is well known local political kingmaker. He's also apparently sorry for almost kicking Dover's butt. Finally, in other legal news, real estate investor Ron Von Kurnatowski is no longer being sued specifically for running a Ponzi scheme. But there are other problems. Businessman and former Tipitina's owner Roland Von Kurnatowski has had mixed success in recent weeks in two of his numerous ongoing legal battles, with one New Orleans judge ruling he owes nearly $850,000 to his sister and nephews, while claims he ran a Ponzi scheme were dropped in a separate lawsuit. Movement on both cases comes less than six months after he sold off Tipitina's, the famed Uptown music club he owned for about two decades, to the band Galactic. Last year, he also sold off his share of the Orpheum Theater which he helped restore following Hurricane Katrina. The sales came amid questions about whether he mingled his private business interests too closely with a nonprofit that has shared a name with Tipitina's and was best known for donating thousands of musical instruments to local school bands. Sounds like somebody needs to call Ernst & Young. Lately, there have been too many days when I don't get around to putting things on the blog I would like to. The primary reason I type things here in the first place is so I can remember what I've read in the news along with maybe some of the other things that happened each day. More crucially, I put those things here so I can find them later if I need them. A person can tweet until they're blue in the thumbs but until there's time actually sit down and makes some notes, it ends up being so much just tossed into the void and too many days that feel like they may not have actually happened.One deterrent to doing the posts is I often want to come over here and write only when it's something that needs a a lot of links andwell at least some explanation beyond, "LOL get a load of these wankers!" Which is why a lot of stuff I'd prefer to have listed here where it's easier to find ends up in a dang tweet hole somewhere. It's also why there are (checks) 670 unfinished posts in "drafts" right now.A few of those will be up soon. I absolutely have to get the stuff about the tourism " Grand Bargain " finished. But also I need to remember to just put stuff here so I remember that it existed at all. Gonna have to do better at that before the brain cloud finished eating me. So with that in mind, here are some items I wanted to flag today.Anyway. Happy GiveNOLA Day! Choose which pit you want to throw your money into wisely. Four border junctions The four crucial energy junctions have very distinctly emerged in quadrilateral corners of South Asia, where India stands to be the central actor These junctions are the India-Nepal-China junction in the north; the India-Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran junction in the west; the India-Sri Lanka-Maldives junction in the south; and, finally, the India-Bhutan-Bangladesh-Myanmar and Southeast Asia junction in the east The Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lionel Leong, said yesterday that the government is working on amendments to the relevant laws to establish heavier fines and a recidivism penalty for illegal work activities undertaken by non-resident workers (TNR). The information came through Leongs statements at the plenary session of the Legislative Assembly (AL), which was solely scheduled to debate the matter after a proposal by the lawmaker Ella Lei. In the justification of the debate, lawmaker Lei highlighted the case that motivated the proposal, which occurred in early March this year when a 22-year-old university student died in a traffic accident involving an illegal driver. The man had been hired by a company to perform work that did not include driving. Continuing to call for heavier fines and penalties for illegal work, Lei noted that the existing law is obsolete and does not produce the needed deterrent effects, recalling that the large majority of the cases are only treated as administrative offenses, punished with a fine of just a few thousand patacas. Aside from fines being low and un suitable as deterrents, the lawmaker also urged the government to explain the very significant drop in the number of cases in which additional penalties had been applied compared to a couple of years ago. In her speech, Lei mentioned that in 2011, additional penalties (including suspended quotas for imported manpower) had been applied in 93% of cases of illegal work, compared to only 2% last year, leading the lawmaker to state, The rigorous application of the measures [established by the law] is just a slogan from the government. In the debate that followed, lawmaker Leong Sun Iok also addressed the plenary and government saying, The scenario of illegal work is very serious at the moment and [the current status] disrupts all the job market locally and contributes to many work-related accidents. He further added, I also dont understand the lack of commitment from the government in addressing this problem. We can even see by statistics that from 2017 to 2018 there was even a reduction in the number of inspections. According to Leong Sun Iok, the average number of cases of illegal work found in Macau is currently one per workplace. In conclusion, he asked, Why are we slacking on this problem? Secretary Leong acknowledged the problem inn his reply and accepted the suggestions, justifying the issue with reference to the fact that the law has not been updated for the past nine years. The law has been in force for nine years and I recognize that there is room for improvement, namely in the aggravation of the fines and additional penalties, Leong said. He further stated, The DSAL [Labour Affairs Bureau] has been conducting studies that aim to review the current regime. There is already a calendar for that work, including the situations raised by the lawmakers [] The aggravation of additional sanctions is a topic that we are submitting to the Legal Affairs Bureau for examination, as it involves the penal code. AMENDMENTS BILL READY BY Q3 In response to lawmaker Sulu Sou calling for a more precise date for the final bill, and following Secretary Leongs reply that a calendar of legal amendments already exists, DSAL director Wong Chi Hong said, We hope that by the third quarter of 2019 we can conclude the work and have a public consultation, as well as hear the opinion of the CPCS [Standing Committee for the Coordination of Social Affairs]. Sou was also interested in knowing exactly what conclusions were reached by the DSAL investigation regarding the case of the student killed in a traffic accident, since the department had said that it had concluded investigations but there has been no official disclosure of the outcome. Wong replied, The DSAL concluded the investigation on the case and the results show that there was an infraction of the law regarding the incident. [] There were two non-resident workers involved and the DSAL applied a fine in the amount of MOP20,000 to the company, as well as an additional sanction that suspended the company from hiring TNRs for 2 years. I can also add that the fine has been paid already. ADDL SANCTIONS CASE-BY-CASE The DSAL directors reply to Sou sparked a reaction from lawmaker Lei, who again called for a reply from the government on why the penalties enforced by the government are now so light compared to previous years, even in cases with very serious consequences like the aforementioned traffic death. Secretary Lionel Leong replied that it is not possible to define a ratio for the sanctions, and it is a matter decided case-by- case according to a series of criteria that then the deputy director of the DSAL, Ng Wai Han, explained in more detail. The main criteria are the severity of the case and level of responsibility of the agent [company], and the number of people involved and whether or not there was recidivism. The damages and consequences [of the case] are also taken into account, Ng clarified, failing to mention the frequency at which such additional sanctions are applied once again, and leading to the intervention of lawmaker Au Kam San who urged for a reply on the matter. At the insistence of the lawmakers, the secretary finally replied, saying that the DSAL had not prepared a reply on such figures and that was why they were not addressing the topic. DIFFICULTIES WITH COOPERATION Facing questions on the matter from several lawmakers, the Secretary for Economy and Finance admitted that the DSAL has also been experiencing difficulties with interdepartmental cooperation and was undertaking an investigation, a fact which restricted and restrained the application of sanctions. In order to investigate the cases, we need to cooperate with other services in order to tackle these matters. This sometimes causes difficulties, he said. Deputy Director Ng noted that the DSAL is undertaking joint operations with the Public Security Police Force and Macao Government Tourism Office, including roadblock operations. Nevertheless, she also acknowledged difficulties in the collection of proof, namely from the construction sites in which there are usually many sub-contractors and its difficult to ascertain who the workers are working for. HOTEL, F&B SECTORS WITH MOST CASES Replying to a question from lawmaker Agnes Lam, the deputy director of the DSAL noted that, according to the bureaus statistics and records, in 2016 and 2017 the sectors responsible for the highest number of cases of illegal work were from the hotel and food and beverage industries. She did not cite exact figures but stated that they accounted for the large majority. Her observation triggered responses from other lawmakers who noted that the reduction in the number of inspections, combined with the lack of effective legal deterrents, were contributing to the problem becoming more widespread. Whereas in the past the issue was self-contained within the construction sector, it has spread to other areas these days, including the main pillars of local economy. Hundreds young women from Pakistans small Christian minority have been trafficked to China as brides in recent months as their impoverished community is targeted in an aggressive new marriage market, activists and officials say. Brokers offer desperately poor parents thousands of dollars to give girls in marriage to Chinese men, even cruising outside churches for potential brides. They are helped by Christian pastors paid to preach to their congregations with promises of wealth in exchange for their daughters. Once in China, the girls most often married against their will can find themselves isolated in rural regions, vulnerable to abuse, unable to communicate and reliant on a translation app even for a glass of water. Touted as wealthy Christian converts, the grooms often turn out to be neither, according to accounts from brides, their parents, an activist, pastors and government officials, speaking to The Associated Press. This is human smuggling, said Ijaz Alam Augustine, the human rights and minorities minister in Pakistans Punjab province, in an interview with the AP. Greed is really responsible for these marriages [] I have met with some of these girls and they are very poor. The Associated Press interviewed more than a dozen Christian Pakistani brides and would-be brides who fled before exchanging vows. All had similar accounts of a process involving brokers and members of the clergy. It is all fraud and cheating. All the promises they make are fake, said Muqadas Ashraf, who was 16 when her parents married her off to a Chinese man last year. Less than five months later, she returned to Pakistan, pregnant and seeking a divorce. In China, demand for foreign brides has mounted, a legacy of the one-child policy that skewed the countrys gender balance toward males. Brides initially came largely from Vietnam, Laos and North Korea. Now men are looking further afield, said Mimi Vu, director of advocacy at Pacific Links, which helps trafficked Vietnamese women. Its purely supply and demand, she said. It used to be, Is she light-skinned? Now its like, Is she female? Pakistan seems to have come onto marriage brokers radar late last year. Saleem Iqbal, a Christian activist, said he first began to see significant numbers of marriages to Chinese men in October. Since then, an estimated 750 to 1,000 girls have been married off, he said. Pakistans small Christian community is particularly vulnerable. It is among the countrys poorest and has little political or social supporting, numbering some 2.5 million in Pakistans overwhelmingly Muslim population of 200 million. Among all faiths in Pakistan, parents often decide a daughters marriage partner. The deeply patriarchal society often sees girls as a burden because the brides family must pay a dowry and the cost of the wedding. By contrast, potential Chinese grooms offer parents money and pay all wedding expenses. Some of the grooms are from among the tens of thousands of Chinese in Pakistan working on infrastructure projects under Beijings Belt and Road Initiative. Other grooms search directly from China through networks. They present themselves as Christian converts, but pastors complicit in the deals dont ask for any documentation. They pay on average USD3,500 to $5,000, including payments to parents, pastors and a broker, said Iqbal. Muqadas mother Nasreen said she was promised about $5,000, including wedding costs. But I have not seen anything yet, she said. I really believed I was giving her a chance at a better life and also a better life for us, Nasreen said. When her daughter became increasingly miserable in China, Nasreen contacted the husband and demanded her daughter be sent home. Dozens of Pakistani priests are paid by brokers to find brides for Chinese men, said Augustine, the provincial minorities minister, who is Christian. Many are from the small evangelical churches that have proliferated in Pakistan. In Gujranwala, a city north of Lahore, more than 100 local Christian women and girls have been married off to Chinese in recent months, according to Iqbal. The city has several mainly Christian neighborhoods, largely dirt poor with open sewers running along narrow slum streets. Pastor Munch Morris, who serves at a local evangelical church, opposes such marriages. But he said he knows a group of pastors in his neighborhood who work with a private Chinese marriage broker. Among them, he said, is a fellow pastor at his church who tells his flock, God is happy because these Chinese boys convert to Christianity. They are helping the poor Christian girls. Rizwan Rashid, a parishioner at the citys Roman Catholic St. Johns Church, said that two weeks earlier, a car pulled up to him outside the church gates. Two Pakistani men and a Chinese woman inside asked him if he knew of any girls who want to marry a Chinese man. They told me her life would be great, he said. They were willing to pay him to help, but he said he refused because the churchs priest often warns his flock against such marriages. Human Rights Watch called on China and Pakistan to take action to end bride trafficking, warning in an April 26 statement of increasing evidence that Pakistani women and girls are at risk of sexual slavery in China. On Monday, Pakistans Federal Investigation Agency arrested eight Chinese nationals and four Pakistanis in raids in Punjab in connection with trafficking, Geo TV reported. It said the raids followed an undercover operation that included attending an arranged marriage. The Chinese embassy said last month that China is cooperating with Pakistan to crack down on unlawful matchmaking centers, saying both Chinese and Pakistani youths are victims of these illegal agents. Kathy Gannon & Dake Kang, Gujranwala, AP Sands China Ltd. recently received a shipment of oranges from Guizhous Congjiang County at The Venetian Macaos receiving dock as part of the companys response to the SAR governments call for targeted poverty alleviation in mainland China. The 5,000 kg shipment of oranges is the third batch of products received to date. Previous shipments have included chili sauce, mineral water and mandarins, the gaming operator said in a statement. The oranges were served at the companys back-of-house dining rooms, which service the companys 28,000 team members. Wilfred Wong, president of Sands China Ltd. said, Our company will continue to explore opportunities to purchase more products from Congjiang, with an aim to help boost its industrial and economic development. Jw Marriott hotel, the Ritz-Carlton launch promotions to celebrate anniversary To commemorate the fourth anniversary of the JW Marriott Hotel Macau and The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, the properties are launching a series of food and beverage promotions. At Urban Kitchen, guests who have the digits 5, 2 or 7 in their cell phone number can enjoy a discount on their bill. If they have two of the three special digits, they can receive a 20 percent discount, and guests with all three digits are entitled to a 30 percent discount. Divided into six zones, each zone has its own specialty chef offering the best seafood, regional Chinese cuisine and European dishes in Macau. This buffet will offer an exclusive anniversary deal for the first 50 bookings daily from May 1 to June 30. Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau is offering exquisite sets at Lai Heen, The Ritz-Carlton Cafe and The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge, featuring signature dishes and specialty drinks at a promotional price. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan insisted yesterday that rerunning the Istanbul mayoral vote won by the opposition will only strengthen democracy, while critics called the decision an outrageous move to eliminate dissent against his government. Ruling in favor of Erdogans governing party, Turkeys top electoral body on Monday annulled the results of the March 31 vote in Istanbul, which opposition candidate Ekrem Imamoglu narrowly won, and scheduled a re-run for June 23. The loss of Istanbul and the capital of Ankara in Turkeys local elections were sharp blows to Erdogan and his conservative, Islamic-based Justice and Development Party, or AKP. AKP had challenged the results of the vote, claiming it was marred by irregularities. Critics accuse the AKP of clinging to power in the city of 15 million people that is Turkeys cultural and commercial hub and of exerting heavy pressure on the countrys electoral body to cancel the outcome. The controversial decision has increased concerns over democracy and the rule of law in Turkey, a NATO member that that is still formally a candidate to join the European Union and a key Western ally in the fight against terrorism and stemming of the flow of refugees to Europe. The will of the people has been trampled on, said Meral Aksener, leader of a nationalist party in Turkey that had backed Imamoglu. The move is raising questions about whether Erdogan, who has consolidated power throughout his 16 years in power and is increasingly accused of authoritarianism, would ever accept any electoral defeat or relinquish power. The redo of the vote also threatens to further de-stabilize the Turkish economy, which has entered a recession. The Turkish lira crashed spectacularly last summer over investor concerns about Erdogans policies, shaking the economy. It has been sliding again in recent weeks and yesterday it hit its lowest level since October, due to the prolonged political uncertainty. This outrageous decision highlights how Erdogans Turkey is drifting toward a dictatorship, Guy Verhofstadt, a European Parliament lawmaker and the leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats, said on Twitter. Under such leadership, accession talks are impossible. Europes top human rights and democracy watchdog expressed concerns about reports of pressure exerted by Erdogans government on the electoral body. We face the repeat elections in Istanbul with great concern and urge Turkish authorities to do their utmost to restore the safeguards of the electoral process, said Anders Knape, the President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe. Delivering a speech in Parliament, Erdogan reiterated that the vote was sullied by irregularities we could not ignore. We see this decision as an important step in strengthening our democracy, which will enable the removal of the shadow cast over the Istanbul election, he said. He rejected opposition accusations that his party was trying to win back a key election that it had lost. But opposition newspaper Birgun, however, branded the decision a coup and argued that justice in Turkey had been suspended. Imamoglu arrived in Ankara yesterday for emergency talks with senior members of the opposition Republican Peoples Party, or CHP. Media reports had said the party was considering boycotting the repeated vote in Istanbul, but CHP signaled that Imamoglu would run again. We extend our hand to all our citizens, the party said at the end of the meeting. We wholeheartedly believe that this extended hand will be held strong on 23 June, that it will strengthen our democratic struggle and that we will achieve a greater victory than on March 31. Suzan Fraser, Ankara, AP The Times received information from readers yesterday that at least two trees in front of the Portuguese School in Avenida Infante D. Henrique had been cut down by the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM). Likely taken on Monday, a video clip posted on social media by a reader showed workers wearing IAM t-shirts cutting down a large tree in front of the main entrance of the Portuguese School. The tree trunks were moved onto an IAM truck next to the sidewalk. A photo posted by another reader showed that workers from the bureau were trimming a smaller tree on the same road. The readers wanted to know on what grounds the IAM had decided to remove these trees. They justified their question by noting the time these trees had been standing and the number of typhoons that they had stood against. The Times asked the IAM for clarification but received no response by press time. Upon being shown photos of the tree stump, environmentalist Joe Chan told the Times that the tree had likely been infected with a fungus. It seems to be a Mock Peepul or Mock Bodhi tree of more than 70 years of age. It is very likely to have been suffering from brown root rot disease, which is also known as the tree cancer. This disease is very strong and complete cure is difficult, Chan said. Regarding disease prevention measures, Chan said that it could be done by spraying medicine into the tree trunk. However, because complete cure is difficult and this disease is highly infectious, both prevention and cure are hard, Chan said. He noted that the disease was especially active in spring and summer. The culprit that causes brown root rot disease is fungal pathogen Phellinus noxius, which is a white rot fungus. Trees infected by the fungus can deteriorate quickly in health and structure. Channels of spread include root contact and contaminated soil and water. In some conditions, it may also spread by air. To conclude, Chan said the cutting of the tree might have been inevitable. Staff reporter Boosting exchange and cooperation in the areas of tourism, conventions and exhibitions is a key task in the framework of Forum Macau, the Secretary-General of the bloc said earlier this week. Xu Yingzhen, speaking at the closing session of the Colloquium on Tourism Management, Conventions and Exhibitions for Portuguese-Speaking Countries, said that strengthening the exchange and cooperation in these areas is one of the main objectives of these meetings. Macau, with its multicultural characteristics and linguistic diversity, has unique advantages in the construction of the World Tourism and Leisure Centre, said the Secretary-General of Forum Macau. In conclusion, Xu Yingzhen called for the continued support of the participants in the development of Forum Macau and in the development of cooperation between the tourism, conventions and exhibitions centre between China and the Portuguese- speaking countries through the Macau Platform in order to promote the growth of the countries involved. The Colloquium on Tourism Management, Conventions and Exhibitions for Portuguese-Speaking Countries, organised by Forum Macau Training Centre in collaboration with the University of the City of Macau, was held from 23 April to 6 May 2019, the first to be held by that centre in 2019. A total of 31 officials, representatives and managers in various areas from the eight Portuguese-speaking countries that are members of Forum Macau, Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, Sao Tome and Principe and Timor-Leste to receive training in Macau. Malaysias attorney general said yesterday that the U.S. will return USD196 million recovered from seized assets linked to the multibillion-dollar looting of the 1MDB state investment fund, part of which has already been repatriated. Attorney General Tommy Thomas said Malaysia has received a first tranche of $57 million that came from a settlement reached with Red Granite Pictures Inc., the production company behind the 2013 Leonardo DiCaprio film The Wolf of Wall Street. Red Granite, owned by the stepson of former Malaysian leader Najib Razak, paid the U.S. government $60 million last year to settle claims that it benefited from the 1MDB scandal. Thomas said the U.S. withheld $3 million to cover its investigation costs. Thomas said in a statement that the U.S. is in the process of remitting another $139 million from the sale of a Manhattan property linked to fugitive Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, who is wanted in both the U.S. and Malaysia. U.S. investigators say more than $4.5 billion was stolen from 1MDB by associates of Najib between 2009 and 2014 and authorities are working to recover some $1.7 billion. They say the ill-gotten gains were laundered through layers of bank accounts in the U.S. and other countries to finance Hollywood films and buy hotels, a luxury yacht, art works, jewelry and other extravagances. Some $700 million from the fund that Najib set up for Malaysias economic development allegedly landed in his own bank account. Anger over the 1MDB scandal led to the spectacular election defeat of Najibs long-ruling coalition a year ago. Najib is now on trial for multiple counts of corruption linked to 1MDB. Thomas said Malaysias government has recovered a total of $322 million worth of 1MDB assets so far. Apart from the U.S. recoveries, Singapore is also returning 50 million Singapore dollars in funds linked to 1MDB and the government sold a luxury yacht bought with 1MDB funds by Low for $126 million, Thomas said. 1MDB asset recovery efforts across the globe are still ongoing and Malaysia is optimistic of recovering further monies in the coming months, he said. AP Malaysian-born Dr. Laurence Loh, adjunct professor at the University of Hong Kong, has hosted a lecture on his experience in urban regeneration and the lessons it may be able to offer Macau. Apart from teaching, Loh also works as an architect. He has spent the past 26 years conserving Malaysian cultural heritage. His expertise and contributions have been acknowledged worldwide. His restoration of the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion in Penang, Malaysia was awarded Most Excellent Project at the inaugural UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2000. He is also a director at Think City, a think and do tank, in Lohs own words, which works on regeneration projects in various cities. Loh and Think City have completed many projects, which may be of inspiration to Macau. Loh and Macau first crossed paths around 14 years ago, when Macau was applying for World Heritage accreditation. Loh was appointed by UNESCO, the accrediting body, as the on-site assessor. Usually the first steps of a project are the most difficult. In one of Loh and Think Citys first projects, we went into the back lanes of Malaysia, which you have a lot of in Macau, and worked with the community to transform the lanes. After working on a couple of the lanes, the government finally noticed the projects feasibility and took over. Another project involved a grassroots, relatively messy district in Penang. A lot of theft and petty crimes formerly took place there, and many businesses were under mafia control. In order to rejuvenate the district, the Think City team had deep conversations with not only community leaders, but also citizens about their ideal image of the district. It was a conversation of two years. Loh said. They eventually succeeded in rejuvenating the district, and tourists were attracted by the districts new character. These two examples illustrate the importance of community-led regeneration, according to Loh, which is one of the two core mottos of Think City. You need to keep the people in the heart of your solution. Loh said. The other core motto is evidence-based planning, which almost echoes the Macau governments slogan of scientific policymaking. In other projects, Loh only acted as inspiration. Think City does offer grants, but its only 10 to 20% of the total cost. That means the owner or developer should have their financial foundation. Also, we have a pay-back clause in our contracts. If they sell the rejuvenated projects within a given period of time, they need to pay us back the grant, Loh explained. Loh emphasized that a quasi-philosophy that UNESCO applies to World Heritage listing is the governments ability to manage change. In his lecture, Loh expressed his wish that more effort had been applied to better conserving Macaus heritage sites. Staff Reporter Two Reuters journalists whose reporting on the Myanmar militarys abuses of Rohingya Muslims got them imprisoned and drew the worlds attention to curbs on freedom of the press were freed yesterday as part of a mass presidential pardon. Wa Lone, 32, and Kyaw Soe Oo, 28, walked out of Yangons notorious Insein Prison at about 9:40 a.m. As they passed through the front gate, waving to the gathered crowd, they were mobbed like rock stars by fellow reporters who as professionals had covered their plight and as colleagues pushed for their release. I want to say that I am very happy today. I want to thank our friends and families who were trying for our freedom and also to those from all over the world who sympathized with us, Wa Lone said. I am really excited to see my family and colleagues. I cant wait to go to my newsroom. Then they were hustled into a black van that took them to reunite with their families. The two reporters were arrested in December 2017 as they were working on a story about security forces involved in killing Rohingya and were accused of illegally possessing official documents, a violation of the colonial-era Official Secrets Act. At their trial the two contended they were framed because of official displeasure over their work, but they were convicted last September and sentenced to seven years in prison. The case drew global attention not only as a media freedom issue but also as an example of how democratic reforms in Myanmar have stalled under Nobel Peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyis civilian government, which took power in 2016 with high hopes that it would usher in a new, more open era after decades of isolation under military rule. It also came as international condemnation built over the brutal counterinsurgency campaign that Myanmars military which still maintains unchecked control of key ministries such as those responsible for security launched in the western state of Rakhine, driving more than 700,000 members of the Rohingya minority group to flee to Bangladesh. U.N. officials and others likened the offensive to ethnic cleansing, or even genocide. Stories based on reporting from Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were published while they were in prison and the two last month were part of a Reuters team that won the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting, one of journalisms highest honors. They shared the award with The Associated Press, which won for its reporting on Yemen. Zaw Htay, a spokesman for the office of President Win Myint, told journalists he spoke with in the eastern state of Kayah yesterday that the reporters families had sent letters requesting they be pardoned, and they were included among 6,520 prisoners released to promote peace and national reconciliation. The families of Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, their employer, press freedom groups, and journalist associations around the world had called for their release all along. Prospects looked grim after Myanmars Supreme Court on April 23 rejected their final appeal of their prison terms, and even grimmer after they were not included in two other recent mass pardons. It wasnt clear what had changed by yesterday but the news was welcomed by rights groups and many others. I think this will reduce the pressures on Myanmars government by the international community, said Yan Myo Thein, a political analyst. Releasing them is progress. But it will be better for democracy and the transition of Myanmar if the president will consider releasing [all] those who are in jail for exercising freedom of expression. The U.N. human rights office in Geneva welcomed their release but said they never should have been arrested. We remain concerned about flaws in the judicial process that led to their conviction in the first place, spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani said. Reuters released a video showing Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo reuniting with their families, hugging their wives and young children. At the time of their arrest, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were working on an investigation of the killings of 10 Rohingya villagers. The government last year said seven soldiers were sentenced to up 10 years in prison with hard labor for the killings. Reporting on the Rohingya is sensitive in Myanmar, where many of the countrys majority ethnic Burmans agree with the official government of denying the group citizenship and labeling them as illegal migrants from Bangladesh. The military has said its actions in Rakhine state were a response to attacks by Rohingya guerrillas, and it did not have a policy violating human rights or the laws of war. During their trial, the prosecution claimed the Reuters reporters were found in possession of secret government documents. The defense said the documents were neither secret nor sensitive and had been given to them by police seeking to frame them. That assertion was supported by surprise testimony from a whistleblower in the police department, who told the court that his superior had arranged for two policemen to meet the reporters and hand over documents described as important secret papers in order to entrap them. As a result of his testimony, that officer was jailed for a year for violating the Police Disciplinary Act and his family was forced to leave their police housing unit. Even with the reporters release, serious concerns remain about freedom of expression in Myanmar. The Myanmar group ATHAN, the Freedom of Expression Activist Organization, said last month that 47 journalists have faced trials since Suu Kyi came to power, and 31 have complaints against them pending. Of the 31, 18 were sued by government officials, four by the military and nine by various individuals. The online magazine The Irrawaddy and other media outlets have recently been sued by the army for their coverage of fighting between the government and the Arakan Army ethnic rebel group, which also operates in Rakhine state. Aung Naing Soe & Grant Peck, Yangon, AP Gold bullion sales swell 35pc on Akshaya Tritiya Gold lovers mobbed Kathmandus bullion stores on Tuesday and bought Rs175 million worth of the precious metal to mark the festival of Akshaya Tritiya. Buying gold on the auspicious occasion, which falls on the third day of the lunar month, is believed to bring good fortune, and people save to splurge on this special day. A survivor of the Russian commercial airliner that crash-landed in Moscow on Sunday, killing 41 people, says a flash of lightning was heard moments before the plane began its emergency descent. Investigators are still working to understand what happened to cause the plane to ignite in a fireball upon landing. A lightning strike is one theory. Dmitry Kharinin, an engineer and resident of Volgograd told a local news outlet Tuesday that he saw the lightning: It was very strong, and could be heard throughout the cabin. Kharinin says he did not witness a direct lightning strike on the Russian-made Sukhoi SSJ100. However, he speculates that the electromagnetic discharge of the lightning may have disabled plane systems. The plane landed hard, destroying the landing gear and igniting the engines, he said. AP Following Macau International Airports (MIA) intention to set up a reception area at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and the Macau checkpoint of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HKZMB), the Transport Bureau (DSAT) has revealed their progress so far in commencing direct shuttle bus services from Macau to HKIA. In response to an interpellation by lawmaker Ho Ion Sang, the DSAT disclosed that the Hong Kong government is working on the tender for the service. The bureau also noted that current traffic over the bridge fell within expected levels, while the average occupancy of the two car parks at the Macau checkpoint is 0.74% and 3% respectively. The addition of express public bus routes to the Macau checkpoint during peak seasons is being studied. Regarding numerous complaints about the insufficient facilities at the immigration building, the DSAT, quoting the Office of the Secretary for Security, stated that the tender is currently being reviewed. The shuttle bus service from Zhuhai Airport (ZUH) to Hong Kong was launched two days ago, with routes from ZUH to the Hong Kong checkpoint of the HKZMB, HKIA and downtown Hong Kong. The DSAT hopes the bus will further improve the dynamics between cities in the Greater Bay Area. The ZUH authority has also expressed their hope of opening routes from the airport to Macau. Routes under consideration include one from ZUH to tourist spots in Macau, one to downtown Macau and one to MIA. Staff reporter The Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, has officially announced the end of the war with Germany. In a message broadcast to the nation from the Cabinet room at Number 10, he said the ceasefire had been signed at 0241 yesterday at the American advance headquarters in Rheims. Huge crowds, many dressed in red, white and blue, gathered outside Buckingham Palace in London and were cheered as the King, Queen and two Princesses came out onto the balcony. Earlier tens of thousands of people had listened intently as the Kings speech was relayed by loudspeaker to those who had gathered in Trafalgar Square and Parliament Square. In it he paid tribute to the men and women who had laid down their lives for victory as well as to all those who had fought valiantly on land, sea and in the air. The act of unconditional surrender is to be ratified in Berlin today but in the interest of saving lives the ceasefire came into effect yesterday. In his speech, Mr Churchill said: We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing; but let us not forget for a moment the toil and efforts that lie ahead. Japan with all her treachery and greed, remains unsubdued. We must now devote all our strength and resources to the completion of our task, both at home and abroad. Advance Britannia. Even after dark, floods of people continued to converge on some of Londons great monuments, floodlit specially for the occasion. There were fireworks, too, and effigies of Hitler burned on bonfires around the capital. Later Mr Churchill was greeted by cheering crowds as he made his way to Whitehall and appeared on the flag-bedecked balcony of the Ministry of Health. God bless you all, he said over the loudspeaker, which was greeted with further cheering and waving from the crowd and a round of For hes a jolly good fellow. Courtesy BBC News In context The act of surrender was signed again in Berlin the following day before Marshal Georgi Zhukov, representing the Russian High Command. Also present at the signing were Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur Tedder, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force, General Carl Spaatz of the United States Air Forces and General Jean-Marie de Lattre de Tassigny of the French First Army. The Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin, refused to accept the surrender signed in Rheims probably because he suspected the motives of the Western Allies and Germany. He insisted the treaty was ratified in Berlin the following day, so Moscow celebrated VE Day one day later than the rest of Europe, on 9 May. A victory parade was held in London on 10 August 1945 when once again huge crowds of cheering, flag-waving crowds took to the streets. Following the two atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki and the deaths of tens of thousands of people, Japan surrendered on 14 August 1945. Victory in Japan Day was celebrated on 15 August. It is also marked on 2 September, the day Japan signed an unconditional ceasefire. China confirmed yesterday its economy czar will go to Washington for trade talks despite fears he might cancel after President Donald Trump threatened to escalate a tariff war over Beijings technology ambitions. The announcement suggests President Xi Jinpings government is putting its desire to end a conflict that has battered Chinese exporters ahead of the political need to look tough in the face of U.S. pressure. The decision to have Vice Premier Liu He, Xis top economic adviser, take part in talks due to start tomorrow might keep alive hopes the two biggest global economies could make peace as early as this week. The Trump administration is pressing Beijing to roll back plans for government-led development of Chinese global competitors in robotics, electric cars and other technologies. Washington, Europe, Japan and other trading partners say those violate Chinas market-opening commitments and are based in part on stolen technology. Trumps announcement Sunday that he would increase tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports to 25% from 10% caused global stock markets to plunge. Markets steadied after a Chinese spokesman said Monday that envoys still were preparing to go to the United States, though there was no word then whether Liu would take part. Yesterday, the Shanghai Composite index surged 0.7% and most other regional markets also rebounded. The American side is led by Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. A Commerce Ministry statement announcing Lius plans gave no indication whether other details such as the size of his delegation might change. Washington and Beijing have raised tariffs on billions of dollars of each others exports, disrupting trade in goods from soybeans to medical equipment. Estimates of lost potential sales so far range as high as $25 billion. Both governments have said negotiations were making progress, but Trump expressed frustration Sunday at the pace. Mnuchin said Monday that Chinese officials were trying to go back on some of the language that had been negotiated in 10 earlier rounds of talks. In response, a foreign ministry spokesman, Geng Shuang, said Beijing is sincere in continuing consultations. Asked whether China took Trumps threat seriously, Geng said similar situations had happened many times before. We hope the United States can still work together with China, Geng said at a news briefing. On the basis of mutual respect and equality, we will resolve each others legitimate concerns and strive to reach an agreement of mutual benefit and win-win. The conflict is testing how far Beijing is willing to go in changing a state-led economic model it sees as the path to prosperity and global influence and how much power Washington will have to enforce any agreement. The United States accuses Beijing of pressing foreign companies to hand over technology in exchange for market access, improperly subsidizing Chinese firms and stealing American trade secrets. No details of the talks have been released. But private sector analysts say Beijing is willing to change details of its plans so long as it preserves the ruling Communist Partys dominant economic role. The Trump administration has imposed 10% tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports and 25% tariffs on another $50 billion. The Chinese have retaliated by targeting $110 billion in U.S. imports. Trump said Sunday he also planned to impose 25% tariffs on another $325 billion in Chinese products. That would extend penalties to everything China ships to the United States, its biggest foreign customer. A stumbling block in the talks is U.S. insistence on an enforcement mechanism with penalties if Beijing fails to keep its promises. The Trump administration wants to keep tariffs on Chinese imports to maintain leverage over Beijing. Joe Mcdonald, Beijing, AP As Madison Metropolitan School District Superintendent Jennifer Cheatham announced Wednesday that she will be leaving her job, community members thanked her for her service, again and again pointing to her work to lift up students of color. That work, Cheatham and others speaking at a press conference said, will not stop when Cheatham leaves her post at the end of August, ending six years as the head of the second largest district in the state. My leaving should not signal for a second a lack of continued commitment by this community of leaders to continue the work that we set out to do, Cheatham said. What it must signal is that for this work to be sustained, it cant depend on the leadership of a single person, me or any future superintendent. To illustrate this point, Cheatham pointed to the dozens of people standing behind her, which included MMSD staff, School Board members and community and nonprofit leaders. This is just some of the people who will continue to work hard and together to keep Madison moving forward, Cheatham said. I am very concerned that we are building a jail too small and that were going to regret it later, Kiefer said. Under the recommended option, the county would vacate the sixth and seventh floors of the City-County Building and the work-release Huber facility on the south side. It would renovate the Public Safety Building, 115 W. Doty St., and build a tower next to it on West Wilson Street. The project cost is $148 million, but it is estimated that the county could spend about $220 million after paying the total principal and interest over a 20-year period. This would add an estimated $50 in taxes to the average home in Madison. A resolution to move forward with building a tower will be introduced at the Dane County Boards May 16 meeting. District 2 Supervisor Heidi Wegleitner, who does not sit on either committee, argued for the county develop a new option. She said the communication on the project has felt one-sided and that the community should have more time to provide input. Wegleitner also urged committee members to quit tinkering around the edges of criminal justice reform. Former Madison alder David Ahrens and healthcare administration professional Kristen Audet advanced to the special election in the race to represent District 17 on the Dane County Board of Supervisors. Ahrens received 51.1 percent of the vote in the special primary election Tuesday with Audet receiving 40.6 percent. A third candidate, Amanda McKaig, received 8.3 percent. With all six precincts reporting, the election saw 7.8 percent of registered voters, or 688, cast ballots in the special primary. District 17 is roughly bordered by Commercial Avenue to the north, 1-90 down to Cottage Grove Road, Stoughton Road to the west and Buckeye Road to the south. The district also includes parts of Atwood and Fair Oaks avenues. The June 4 special election will determine the race between Ahrens and Audet in addition to contested races in Districts 1 and 33. Over six years, one Wisconsin Army National Guard unit had 12 incidents of sexual misconduct, many perpetrated by a group of men who called themselves the four horsemen and preyed upon women for sexual favors. From 2012-2017, the Guards internal investigation of the 457th Chemical Company based in Hartford, near Milwaukee, found misconduct that included allegations of sexual assault, sexual harassment, inappropriate relationships, fraternization, and a civil case involving second degree sexual assault. A discrimination complaint filed in 2016 from one of the companys officers, 1st Lt. Megan Plunkett, led the Guard to appoint Lt. Col. Rene Emond to examine the units climate. He interviewed 22 current and former members of the unit, which trains to protect residents in the event of a biological or nuclear attack. His investigation sent in January 2018 to Brian Wolhaupter, chief of staff to Adjutant General Donald Dunbar, the leader of the Wisconsin National Guard included a particularly disturbing finding: Much of the alleged misconduct was done by the staff members charged with administering the Guards sexual assault and response programs. Guard leaders may not have tacitly or explicitly endorsed this behavior from the men they commanded, but sexual misconduct continued, Emond wrote in his report, which took more than a year to complete. After conducting this investigation it is apparent that some form of sexual misconduct has been prevalent within the 457th (company) for approximately six years, Emond wrote. Quote 2 After conducting this investigation it is apparent that some form of sexual misconduct has been prevalent within the 457th (company) for approximately six years. Guard officials said they could neither confirm nor deny the existence of Emonds investigation and could not say how the Guard has responded or whether it has changed any policies because of it. The Cap Times obtained a copy of the report from Plunkett, who got it from the Wisconsin Army National Guard through her Guard-appointed attorney. Plunkett filed her complaint after she said she was sexually assaulted by three different men in three separate units while serving in the states Army National Guard. The first of those was in the 457th. Throughout her time in the Guard, Plunkett heard stories from other female soldiers and said she observed a climate of misconduct. She wanted it to stop. In its investigations of her personal assault allegations, the Guard called Plunkett untruthful and said she fabricated her complaints. But over the same period of time, Emond found numerous other women in her first unit who corroborated her broader statements about its culture and cited one of her alleged assailants as one of a group of men who called themselves the four horsemen. Sexually harassed on a daily basis In his investigation, Emond interviewed four other women in Plunketts unit, all of whom said they feared reprisal if they came forward with sexual assault or harassment complaints. Several noted specific instances when they faced retribution. One of them said she was worried that full-time staff unit members would use their positions against her if she reported their harassment. I feared that if I came forward, I would have no chance of growing my military career and I wouldnt get the full time position, she wrote in a sworn statement. She later reported the harassment to someone higher in her chain of command, but it got back to her harasser, who verbally threatened her, she said. After her harasser was counseled and the behavior stopped, the Guard did not follow through with her about how or if he would be punished, she wrote. The commander never did his part as to follow up with me after the case. I actually had to contact the executive officers office to find out what the conclusion to my case was, she said. I am disheartened to know that not only did the commander not follow through with his course of action ...but there was never any follow up at all with me like he said he was going to, which really leads me to believe he just does not care. The whole experience made her question her drive to stay in the National Guard, she said. After the harassment and throughout the period of the investigation, the Guard gave her formal feedback that her performance had been poor. I feel like this investigation and what has been happening has not even been communicated to my ... supervisors or they think that being sexually harassed on a daily basis for almost a year should not have an impact on work performance I am just not sure why I reported this in the first place. Several soldiers both men and women said in sworn statements in the Emond report that they were aware of other incidents of sexual misconduct and thought commanders were likely aware of it, too. One said there was a culture of drinking in the unit, with leaders buying their soldiers drinks. Certain soldiers could get away with more in the unit depending on who their friends were. Several other male officers acknowledged that trust in the unit had been abused. Several noted that while it seemed to be getting better, more could be done. One male officer, a leader in the unit, said he personally reported two incidents of sexual harassment and said both were handled without care or due process and said proper investigating procedure was not used in at least one case. He said he tried to help soldiers by encouraging them to report, but added that I am not sure soldiers will feel comfortable coming forward themselves or reporting to leaders on their behalf when this is the treatment and outcome they can expect. Culture of sexual misconduct From 2012-2017, five top-level commanders cycled through the Wisconsin Army National Guards 457th Chemical Company while the pattern of sexual misconduct persisted there, according to Emonds investigation. Commanders in the Army National Guard routinely move from unit to unit as they advance through the ranks, but a part of their job at each stop is to be cognizant of the climate of the units they lead. When asked whether leaders are responsible for being aware of whats going on in their units, Guard spokesman Joe Trovato said, Ultimately a commander is responsible for anything that happens in their units, though he was not addressing the Emond report in his answer. Despite the reports findings that numerous commanders rotated through the unit as several full-time staff soldiers preyed upon women there for years, Emond absolved those in charge. While company commanders held positions that would logically point to them as being responsible for creating the culture of sexual misconduct to take place, I found no evidence that Commanders or First Sergeants approved or supported explicitly or tacitly a culture of sexual misconduct within the 457th, he wrote, noting that some commanders punished offenders by writing letters of reprimand and counseling them. Outside Guard experts agree that it can be difficult for commanders to know what is going on in their units because of the organizations nature as a part-time civilian military force. Units are run by soldiers who are full-time, state employees, and commanders of higher rank are only present for training once a month. The frequent absence of leaders gives full-time soldiers, who often live near bases in rural, isolated parts of the state, significant influence over part-time soldiers. There is a lot of autonomy thats required in many units, said Maj. Robert Elliott, who led Army National Guard units in several states and worked at the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C., before retiring in 2017. They have the opportunity to be jerks, he said, commenting on the role of full-time staff and the general structure of Guard units. Theyre (state) government employees. Unless they quit, they would have to go to another military installation to work if they didnt work in that armory. That is the dynamic Emond described in his report on the 457th Chemical Company. He largely blamed two soldiers who were full-time staff members in the unit for its culture of sexual misconduct. These two men were also likely among the four horsemen, he wrote. The soldiers, whose names were redacted, failed their commanders by using extremely poor judgement. As noted in sworn statements and other inquiries, investigations and filings, they both engaged in inappropriate sexual misconduct activities that not only discredited their rank and positions but degraded unit cohesiveness. These full-time staff soldiers who allegedly committed assaults also administered the National Guards sexual assault prevention and response trainings in the 457th. They were a designated point of contact for soldiers to report sexual misconduct. It is extremely difficult for commanders to administer effective SHARP (sexual assault response program) and EO (equal opportunity) programs when their two full time staff unit soldiers are primary offenders of these programs, Emond wrote. Quote 1 Female soldiers began to realize that if they brought up sexual misconduct issues that they were opening themselves up to potential reprisals from the very full time staff unit soldiers they were accusing. Female soldiers began to realize that if they brought up sexual misconduct issues that they were opening themselves up to potential reprisals from the very full time staff unit soldiers they were accusing, he added. Despite Emonds report, these men remain in the ranks of the Wisconsin Army National Guard as of March, according to its online directory. Far worse to do nothing Looking for solutions to the problems he described, Emond advised the Guard to rotate full-time staff unit soldiers every three to five years and to relocate alleged perpetrators. The frequency of full-time staff unit rotation varies widely from unit to unit and is less standardized than other National Guard roles. In the 457th, one full-time staff member in the unit who Emond identified as a perpetrator worked there for six years. To avoid circumstances where full time staff unit soldiers may become too familiar and potentially think they, not the Commanders, are the ones commanding the unit, periodic rotation of full time staff unit personnel must be made into policy, Emond wrote. Although the Guard declined to comment on any of Emonds recommendations, spokeswoman Jackie Halverson said that it constantly seeks to improve any system throughout the entire organization. Emond concluded his recommendations by noting that future Wisconsin Army National Guard commanders should not be afraid to take all sexual misconduct allegations seriously. It is far worse to do nothing than it is to allow allegations to fester within a unit and cause discontent and loss of morale, he wrote. Wisconsin's government, once pro-active on climate change, can be again, assures Political Environment blogger James Rowen. He urges new Gov. Tony Evers to take Wisconsin back to the days before Scott Walker became chief executive and not only acquiesced to notorious anti-environment legislator Tom Tiffany, but decimated the DNR and its reliance on science. Once again, state Democrats grabbed defeat from the jaws of victory in last month's Supreme Court race, blogs Jeff Simpson on Cognitive Dissidence. The veteran blogger presents his case about went wrong and how it is a devastating blow for liberals in the state. In a Fox News opinion piece, former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, urges Republicans to "wake up" to the Democrats' "judicial power grab." Walker, who has been regularly weighing in on national issues recently, claims that Dems are "suing and suing" on redistricting until they can turn the states blue. The governors budget invests $70 million in funds for drinking water and surface water. From replacing lead pipes to cleaning up phosphorus and remediating wells contaminated by nitrate and coliform bacteria, this funding will strengthen existing partnerships and provide much-needed resources to people in rural and urban areas alike. Weve had years of inaction, with the DNR being gutted to historic levels under the previous governor. Its thrilling to have Gov. Evers recognize that the only way forward is by facing the problem head-on and dedicating resources to it. The biggest change Ive seen in the Capitol is that the administration is leading with science. When the DNR, the Department of Health Services, and the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection provided expert testimony on our states water issues to the Speakers Task Force on Water Quality, I knew the administration meant business. They offered thorough, scientific information and laid out the comprehensive programs available across all three agencies and they answered our questions, a far cry from the old DNR. Kiran Thapa takes home Rs100,000 as fourth weekly Kantipur Ko Karodpati winner Kiran Thapa has won a cash prize of Rs 100,000 under the weekly lucky draw scheme, becoming the fourth winner of the third season of Kantipur Ko Karodpati. His memoir is infused with his love of nature ("It is now that I think that life was meant to be shared with animals, not just other people," he writes), but it is devoid of sentimentality. There are wee lambs and calves, but there is also death, and most of these animals are meant for the slaughterhouse. "There are times in farming when nothing can be done," he writes grimly, in late February, after a birth goes terribly wrong. "The beast is too old, the calf too sick, the man too worn out." There is also a fear of tempting fate. When a beautiful calf is born, "We do not praise him too much, for fear that he might be taken from us by death, or that our luck might turn." In Connell's eyes, the past and the future are fused with the present, and he writes about local gossip, ancient myths and legends, Ireland's years of rebellion, and neighbors both long gone and recently gone as easily as if all of it happened yesterday. In 1798, British soldiers hanged Irish rebels from trees near his farm; when, 40 years ago, the farmer cut down those trees, "the shackles were still upon the branches; they had become part of nature itself." Two Madison men were arrested Tuesday morning for allegedly dealing cocaine out of their South Side apartment. Royrel Gatson, 34, and David Dorenzo, 43, were tentatively charged with maintaining a drug trafficking place, with Gatson also tentatively charged with delivery of cocaine and Dorenzo tentatively charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine. The search warrant and subsequent arrests happened at about 9 a.m. at an apartment in the 2300 block of Fish Hatchery Road, Madison police said. "Responding to neighborhood concerns, the Dane County Narcotics Task Force launched an investigation earlier this year into the two roommates who were believed to be peddling cocaine out of their apartment," said police spokesman Joel DeSpain. "The task force confirmed suspicions held by area residents," DeSpain said. "The roommates were selling drugs." Cocaine base (crack), money, cellphones, digital scales and drug packaging materials were seized at the apartment. When he was called to the witness stand Wednesday in the trial of his co-defendant, Dametrius Reeves, convicted killer Curtis Langlois stuck to his plan not to say a word. Through the oath to tell the truth and questions lobbed at him by Deputy District Attorney Matthew Moeser, Langlois kept silent, simply staring forward and letting the questions slip past. He conveyed nothing during his brief time in Circuit Judge Ellen Berzs courtroom, other than a brief smirk and shake of his head as Moeser and Reeves lawyer, Paul Schwartz, stood during an extended bench conference with Berz, their conversation masked from the jury with white noise. Later, Langlois shared a brief laugh with deputies taking him from courtroom. Langlois pleaded guilty in November 2017 to first-degree intentional homicide for the Aug. 2, 2017, shooting death of Kendrith Young, 33, at the 7-Eleven convenience store, 2703 W. Beltline, and to a charge of attempting to kill Rodney Lemon Jr. Deputy District Attorney Matthew Moeser told jurors that while Langlois never specifically named Reeves as his accomplice, it was clear in interviews with detectives that he was referring to Reeves, also known as Meechie. Moeser also said Blevins told police that at one point Reeves admitted to her that he fired shots at Young, and she told police he owned a revolver. Police believe one of the guns used in the killing was a revolver. Asking jurors to keep an open mind, Moeser said the evidence fits together that the man who was with Langlois and fired a revolver during the incident at the 7-Eleven was Reeves. In testimony Tuesday, Blevins said she initially was not truthful with police because Reeves was still at large and she was afraid of him. But once he was in custody following his arrest in Indiana, she testified, she was able to be truthful with police. Reeves lawyer, Paul Schwartz, in occasionally testy cross-examination that stretched into the early evening, challenged the differing statements Blevins made to police. Superintendent Jennifer Cheatham is expected to announce Wednesday a plan to resign as head of the Madison School District after six years of leading the state's second-largest school district, according to a source with knowledge of the situation and multiple media reports. The decision comes near the end of a tumultuous year for the district over the racial climate of schools and questions about safety. In March, Cheatham admitted it has been a "trying" one. The Isthmus first reported Tuesday night, citing unnamed sources, that Cheatham plans to announce her resignation at a press conference Wednesday, though it was unknown when she plans to leave. Other local news outlets, citing unnamed sources, also reported the same information. The Wisconsin State Journal spoke with one source with knowledge of Cheatham's decision who confirmed that she plans to resign, though the source declined to be identified. The newspaper contacted several other sources with ties to the district, but none would comment on the reports. The Madison School Board met Monday in closed session to discuss "consideration of employment of a district administrator," according to a meeting agenda. Wisconsin voters could legally take selfies with their marked election ballots under a proposal that a state Senate committee considered Tuesday. Supporters of the measure called the current ban archaic, especially in an era in which voters are increasingly posting pictures of themselves with their marked ballots on Instagram and Facebook. But county election clerks came out against the change, warning that it could have unintended consequences. Theres a really strong concern that this opens the door to undoing the secrecy of the ballot, Dane County Clerk Scott McDonell testified. Its a real concern that as it becomes commonplace to show your ballot, its going to be easier to coerce others to show their ballots. He and Brown County Clerk Sandy Juno testified against the measure, which is also opposed by the Wisconsin County Clerk Association. The clerks warned that making it commonplace to show a marked ballot could lead to employers, unions or others forcing people to prove they voted a certain way to receive a benefit or avoid being punished. They also voiced concern about how people legally taking photos in a polling location could infringe on the confidentiality rights of other voters. Media Council Bill moves quietly to Parliament after remaining shrouded in secrecy for months The secrecy surrounding the Media Council bill has given rise to fears of more sanctions on press freedoms, as existing laws are already being used to stifle journalists and the media. BUHL J. David Erickson writes about a forgotten time. He writes about the silent generation, those born between the mid-to-late 1920s and the early-to-mid 1940s. He calls them war babies. While their parents were focusing on the war effort the children took care of themselves and found a sense of adventure. My writing has a personality thats enhanced by the time I grew up, Erickson said. There was something special about the young people who didnt have helicopter parents. They became freedom lovers. Erickson is a retired fisheries biologist living in Buhl with his wife and editor, Carolyn Erickson. He was born and raised in North Dakota, went to college in Montana and spent his 42-year career fish farming in Idaho. After retiring, he took up writing full-time. His books serve as love letters to the places that turned him into who he is today. I have no urban experience. No experience with suburbs, Erickson said. I write about the things I know ranchers, farmers, adventurers. In his new fiction novel, Jack and the War Babies, all of the characters stem from a real person. He draws from the people he has met in the West. I cant create a man from thin air, Erickson said. These characters are inspired by quirks from people Ive met. One person can be created from many. Jack and the War Babies is Ericksons first venture into fiction. Its the story of Jack, a free spirit whos wanderlust leads to a life-changing experience that involves solving a mystery in Montana. The book will debut at a book signing 4 to 7 p.m. May 17 at AT Art and Treasures, 121 Broadway Ave. S., Buhl. There will be food available and the event is open to everyone, Ericksons publicist, Amy Schutte, said. Also for sale will be Ericksons first book, The Muddy River Boys, a series of nonfiction stories from his boyhood in North Dakota. He says his greatest thrill as an author is when a reader comes up and shares their own stories with him. I hope theyre entertained, he said. What really gets me excited is when someone reads my work and I can see that theyve shared similar experiences. Ive found hundreds of new friends because of this. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by Liberty Access & Mobility Solutions The families of residents at Southwest Idaho Treatment Center, or SWITC, are pursuing a class action against the state and the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare over alleged abuse, neglect, illegal restraint and humiliation. The sister of Drew Rinehart a man who died while at SWITC called for meaningful change at the treatment center in a news release announcing the claims. Rineharts death is a devastating loss to our family, Jamie Foruria, Rineharts sister, said in the release. Had Drew received appropriate care, treatment and services from SWITC staff and management, he would still be with us. A notice of the class action said the families and their lawyers want to meet with state officials to talk about the allegations and a possible settlement that appropriately addresses all issues. They have not filed a lawsuit yet. SWITC treats residents who have developmental delays and mental illnesses, as well as some serious health conditions. It is operated by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. The department spokeswoman, Niki Forbing-Orr, said Thursday afternoon that officials had just received the notice and are still reviewing it and assessing our options. The notice gives the state 10 business days to respond to the families meeting request, and 30 days for the meeting to take place. The notice alleges: Staff at SWITC continually and repeatedly inflicted abuse, neglect and humiliation upon residents, and SWITC leadership failed (to) curtail such conduct. Instead of providing needed support and care intended to allow their return (to) the community, their family and friends, and their homes, they were beaten, neglected, and abused. Some residents died from the abuse and neglect, and then SWITC staff tried to cover it up. The claim follows about two years of scrutiny, investigations and legal action regarding staff and managers conduct at SWITC. DisAbility Rights Idaho last year said it found 49 cases of abuse and neglect during a yearlong investigation of SWITC. The class action claim references the disability advocacy nonprofits report, which was released in October. DisAbility Rights said it found at least 14 residents were victims of confirmed abuse or neglect. In a facility with only about 23 residents, these are appalling numbers. In our opinion, these point to systemic failures, said the nonprofits former Executive Director Jim Baugh. The Department of Health and Welfare disputed some of the reports claims and said it had already changed some policies based on the reports recommendations. Also last year, the state agreed to pay $10,000 to settle a lawsuit by the mother of Moses Rodriguez, a 24-year-old patient who died after living at SWITC. His mother claimed Rodriguez was neglected at the facility. Erika Dreyer, mother of young resident Brandon Buchanan, said in the news release that SWITC staff repeatedly placed Brandon in situations where he became injured, resulting in serious head injuries and scars. Dreyer said in the release that no staff members reported the incidents to authorities. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 An Idaho man accused in the September killing of a man has been charged with the additional crime of cannibalism and authorities in court documents said the suspect believed he could "cure his brain" by eating some of the victim. BOISE A Twin Falls man was sentenced Monday for insurance fraud, Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden announced Wednesday. A jury found Brian McFadden, 42, guilty March 5. On Monday, Fifth District Court Judge Roger Harris sentenced McFadden to serve three to five years, but suspended the sentence and ordered him to serve four years of probation instead. McFadden will also be subject to a drug and alcohol evaluation. The court will determine a restitution amount May 28. An investigation revealed McFadden purchased auto insurance from Esurance on June 5, 2017, Wasdens office said in a statement. Four days later, McFadden filed a claim with the company and stated he had been in a collision June 6. During the crash, McFadden totaled his Ford truck and sustained injuries. He also struck another vehicle, injuring the driver and rendering that vehicle a total loss, the attorney generals office said. Esurance investigated and found the accident occurred June 2, three days prior to the policys purchase. Deputy attorney general Jessica Cafferty prosecuted the case. The Idaho Department of Insurance investigated. Love 0 Funny 5 Wow 2 Sad 0 Angry 0 BOISE Kang Myung-do fled North Korea in 1994 and defected to South Korea. While in South Korea, Kang, the former son-in-law of a previous North Korean premier and a distant relative of current leader Kim Jong Un, became a political science professor at Kyonggi University. Now Kang says he fears for his safety in South Korea. He has become so concerned, he sent his son to live in Idaho for protection, and he himself is considering leaving South Korea. He told the Idaho Statesman that he fears for his life because, for the past four years, he has been helping North Koreans flee due to starvation, religious persecution, political oppression and other hardships. He left his university post last year to focus full time on what he says is his calling helping the 23 million North Korean people crying out for help. Kang helps relocate the North Korean refugees to other countries, including Thailand, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the U.S. He traveled to the U.S. from South Korea last week to meet with church leaders in Idaho and other parts of the country to seek help for North Korean refugees. The visit to Idaho, his first, provided the Idaho Statesman a rare opportunity to sit down with a North Korean defector and discuss the current political climate on the Korean Peninsula. When I come to the state of Idaho, I feel like it is so peaceful and so beautiful. I can feel the heart of people in Idaho, Kang told the Statesman via an interpreter, Okhee Chang, a pastor with Living Word Church in Meridian. Kim Jong Un worse than father When he fled North Korea 25 years ago at age 35, Kang said, he thought things were bad. Now he thinks North Korea is the biblical end of the world. He attributes this direness to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who assumed power after his father, Kim Jong Il, died in 2011. Kim has stepped up efforts to prevent people from fleeing North Korea, Kang explained. When the father died, the border river (between North Korea and China) was not barricaded, but now Kim Jong Un barricaded it with very high-voltage electricity. So people who try to cross will get electrocuted, Kang said. North Korea does not have enough electricity to keep the fence electrified all the time, so it has started putting poison on the fence, Kang said. People who come in contact with the poison suffer severe injuries, he explained, showing the Statesman a photo of a mans leg, which was gashed and severely inflamed after coming in contact with the poisoned fence, according to Kang. They are killing a lot of people crossing the border to China, he said. The security army has machine guns to kill them, to prevent the crossings. Just recently, a mother and daughter were crossing and they shot at them with a machine gun. The mother got hit, so the daughter tried to rescue the mom and they shot daughter and mother together, said Kang, who showed the Statesman a video of the shooting. This did not happen with his father. Kim Jong Un is worse than his father. A landmark 400-page United Nations Commission of Inquiry study released in 2014 documented unspeakable atrocities committed in North Korea based on firsthand testimony from victims and witnesses. The gravity, scale and nature of these violations reveal a state that does not have any parallel in the contemporary world, the Commission says in its report. Human Rights Watch has identified North Korea as one of the worlds most repressive states. Ongoing and escalating torture, starvation and other abuses of North Korean citizens by their government has led Kang to step up his effort to help North Koreans escape, he said. Due to security concerns, Kang said he cannot say how many people he has helped flee because the North Korean government is extremely sensitive, but it is a lot of people. As a political scientist, Kang has been critical of Kim in international media interviews, including one last year with CNN. Five years ago, Reuters reported some North Korean defectors, including Kang, were coming under scrutiny for getting paid to appear on South Korean television news shows to discuss North Korea. The Statesman does not pay for any interviews, including Kangs. Another lethal threat North Koreans are now facing another lethal threat: tuberculosis. A lot of kids are dying with TB, they are dying right and left, Kang said, explaining that there has been much reporting on people dying from malnutrition, but not as much on tuberculosis deaths, which has been a recent development. When I left in 1994, I did not hear about that many people with TB, he said. But after Kim came into power, he began focusing on developing nuclear weapons. He is spending all the money there, so the young and elderly people have incredible lack of nutrition and they do not have an immune system, so all these people are dying from TB, Kang said. The World Health Organization 2018 Global Tuberculosis report identified North Korea as one of 30 high TB burden countries. Nuclear threat is real Do not doubt North Koreas nuclear capabilities, Kang warns. They have at least 60 nuclear bombs and they have already tested more than six times. America knows this, Kang said. A March 2018 U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency briefing identifies North Korea as a critical threat to the U.S. Also, a Congressional report from January 2019 reported: There is no public U.S. Intelligence Community (IC) consensus of North Koreas fissile material stockpiles. News reports in August 2017 said that one component of the IC, the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), had estimated a stockpile of up to 60 nuclear warheads. ... Some experts believe that North Korea could have potentially produced enough material for 13-21 nuclear weapons, and that North Korea could now potentially produce enough nuclear material for an additional 7 warheads per year. When asked if he believes North Korea will honor denuclearization promises, Kang responds: This is a very important question. Kim Jong Un will not give up nuclear power. The only way Kim can stay in power is with nuclear weapons, Kang explained. Without 60 nuclear weapons, President Trump will not acknowledge him at all, he said. During a meeting in February in Hanoi, Vietnam, between Trump and Kim, Trump walked away. Kang thinks Trump did so because, They can sense and see they were being deceived by Kim Jong Un and his assistants about giving up nuclear weapons. (Kim) did not really mean it, Kang said. The DIA 2019 World Threat Assessment confirms the U.S. governments skepticism about denuclearization: We continue to assess that North Korea is unlikely to give up all of its nuclear weapons and production capabilities, even as it seeks to negotiate partial denuclearization steps to obtain key US and international concessions. Changing South Korea Not only did the United States get a new president in 2017, but so did South Korea. The new president, Moon Jae-in, and the subsequent change in political climate are why Kang now fears for his life in South Korea. Under South Koreas previous presidents, the relationship with America was one accord, so they had the same voice and the same opinion, he said. There is a great big split going on in South Korea right now. It started after Moon started. Moon has been critical of Trump and the UN. The DIA Global Threat Assessment report issued in January reported (Kim Jong Un) met with South Korean President Moon Jae-in three times in 2018, leading to agreements to reconnect roads and rail lines, establish new military parameters, promote reforestation, and facilitate cultural exchanges. Because Moon is more aligned with Kim than the previous president was, Kang said his work helping North Korean refugees has put his and his familys lives in jeopardy. He is very evil Kang is hoping America can still help. I want to ask and plead, please do not be deceived by Kim Jong Un. He will not give up nuclear weapons. He is very evil. Unfortunately, Kang said, he does not see any way out other than war with North Korea with Kim in charge. It is already too late for him to change, because he has killed too many people in North Korea, Kang said. ... And tens of thousands of citizens who are against him, he killed them, people who believe in almighty God or because they tried to cross the river because they are hungry. He has killed too many people that citizens will not support him. While international political powers will forgive him, North Korean civilians will not forgive him. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BLISS The family of a Washington man who was severely injured in a November car crash on Interstate 84 near Bliss is trying to find the driver of a truck that fled the scene. Ron Goodman, who lives in Soap Lake, Wash., was on life support for 21 days, spent 82 days in hospitals and underwent about 22 surgeries. He still is unable to use his legs. His family is offering a reward to whoever has information that leads to the person responsible for the crash. Goodmans daughter Kourtnie Suarez, who lives in Ephrata, Wash., told the Times-News on Tuesday the family has tried to stay in contact with Idaho State Police, but without a license plate number and only a basic description of the truck from witnesses, it doesnt give them someone to go after. In November, Idaho State Police said in a statement it was investigating the crash that injured two people on I-84 eastbound at mile marker 141 near the Bliss exit off-ramp and asked witnesses and the trucks driver to come forward. An unsecured toolbox came out of the bed of a truck and landed on the interstate, leading to the crash. An Idaho State Police official told the Times-News on Tuesday there havent been any citations filed in the case. Witnesses told law enforcement the driver of the truck with the unsecured toolbox slowed down and pulled off onto the shoulder of the interstate after the accident, but immediately took off and sped away, Suarez said. About a week after the accident, Suarez spoke with one of the witnesses who was driving on the interstate behind her father but the woman didnt have the license plate number of the truck that left the scene. The witness said it was a silver full-size truck, but she couldnt tell if it was a Ford or Chevrolet. Suarez said her father has tried to stay positive about the situation. But with medical expenses stacking up, theyre hoping to find the driver who fled the scene to see if that person has insurance that could help. It was just a nightmare On Nov. 17, Goodman was traveling through Bliss on the way to Arizona to visit a friend whose husband had recently died of cancer. A truck in front of Goodman had a large chrome toolbox in the truck bed that wasnt strapped down, Suarez said. It flew out the back of the truck, she said. Dad was a short distance behind them. Goodman tried to swerve out of the way, but there wasnt enough time. His pickup slammed into the toolbox. Suarez said she received a phone call just after 9 a.m. the day of the crash from an off-duty firefighter notifying her about what happened. She was getting ready for her daughters birthday. At that point, we had no idea how bad the accident was, Suarez said. It was bad. Goodmans legs were crushed and arteries in both legs were severed. He also suffered other injuries, including three fractures to his skull, a fractured pelvis and eight fractured ribs. It was just a nightmare, Suarez said. Suarezs uncle was a passenger in Goodmans truck and walked away with three stitches to a finger and a black eye. How he walked away with such minor injuries was just amazing to me, Suarez said. Goodman was taken by helicopter to Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, where he underwent a 16-hour vascular surgery. He was there through Dec. 18 and was then transferred to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where he was until he was released Feb. 6. At Saint Alphonsus, the family was told there wasnt anything to do to repair Goodmans legs and the recommendation was to amputate them, Suarez said. They said the bones in his legs were like crushed cornflakes. But the family decided against amputation. Goodman is unable to stand, and he now uses a wheelchair. Hes undergoing physical therapy. Custom braces for his legs, which will go under his feet and hook on the top of his thighs, will be ready Thursday. The braces are supposed to stabilize his ankles and feet so he can stand with the assistance of a harness. Its just going to be a very, very long process, Suarez said. Goodman is the manager of an orchard in Royal City, Wash., where he has been working for almost 30 years. Work was amazing throughout the entire situation, Suarez said. His employer rented housing for the family to stay at in Boise and then Seattle while Goodman was in the hospital. None of us prepared financially for something like this. Goodman can make work-related phone calls, Suarez said, but nothing none of the more physical tasks he used to do. She takes her father out to the orchard he loves once every couple of weeks. Thats what he grew up doing and thats something he absolutely loved, Suarez said. As her father continues to push forward, theres a lot to deal with: significant injuries and physical therapy, family members being caregivers for Goodman, and a mountain of paperwork and bills. Suarez said: It was definitely a situation that I never expected our family to be in. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 9 Angry 1 August 17, 1984May 1, 2019 Solomon Matthew Meyer, 34, of Spokane, Washington and formerly of Wendell, Idaho, went to be with the Lord on May 1, 2019, after fighting a short illness. Solomon Matthew Meyer was born on August 17, 1984 to Tim and Bonnie Meyer of Wendell, Idaho. His siblings Levi (Chelsea), Nathan (Kara), and Angela Meyer were enthused. Solomon had a prolific childhood filled with homeschooling, enjoying the love of the family and developed a strong work ethic. He found his interests in woodworking, snowboarding, and lending an eager hand to anyone who had need. Solomon brought his vibrant and fun-loving personality into all that he did. Solomon attended the University of Idaho in 2007, earning placement on the Deans List and obtained two degrees. One in Business Information Systems and the other in Business Operation Management. True to his nature, he gathered many lifelong friends, fraternity brothers and enjoyed living life to the fullest. He gained employment at Ciena in Spokane, Washington for 10 years. He was blessed by being an uncle to Elisha (15), Emily (13), Matthew (12), Noah (12), and Jeremy (9) Meyer. He loved his family dearly and filled our lives with laughter and excitement. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 2 p.m., at the Wendell Cemetery. At 3 p.m., a Celebration of Life service will be held at Living Waters Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Wendell. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service Wendell Chapel. Condolences, memories and photos can be shared with the family by following the obituary link at www.demarayfuneralservice.com. BOISE Easy peasy: Helping those who struggle with hunger in Idaho communities is as easy as placing some non-perishable food in a bag and leaving it next to your mailbox prior to mail delivery on Saturday. Idaho post office volunteers and letter carriers collecting food on their routes will include: Buhl, Burley, Gooding, Jerome, Twin Falls and several others. They will deliver donations to local food banks and pantries. Last year, Idaho residents donated 300,000 pounds of food. The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drives timing is crucial. By spring, many pantries are depleted entering the summer low on supplies at a time when many school breakfast and lunch programs are not available to children in need. The most-needed foods include: Canned meats tuna, chicken, salmon Canned and boxed meals soup, chili, stew, macaroni and cheese Canned or dried beans and peas black, pinto, lentils Pasta, rice cereal Canned fruits 100% fruit juice canned, plastic or boxed Canned vegetables Cooking oil Boxed cooking mixes pancake, breads Not-wanted items include: Rusty or unlabeled cans Glass containers Perishable items Homemade items Expired items Non-commercial canned or packaged items Alcoholic beverages, mixes, soda Open or used items For more information, go to stampouthungerfooddrive.us. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Autumn Herndon 19 is one of approximately 1,000 college students nationwide to receive a Gilman scholarship. The scholarship of $3,500 will enable Herndon to study abroad in Panama this summer. Autumn is such an amazing student, and we are so grateful for the work of Br. Dan [Gardner] in guiding her through the application process, said Ricardo Dello Buono, Ph.D., professor of sociology and director of the study abroad program at Manhattan College. As a former Fulbright professor in Panama, I am very happy to finally see a student going to study and perform service there. A native of Clifton Park, N.Y., Herndon plans to graduate in December 2019 with a bachelors degree in international studies with a concentration in Latin America and the Caribbean. Herndon has interned at Corewoman in New York City, working on the research team to gather data and report on political gender gaps in Latin America. She was also an intern at the Center for Italian Modern Art in New York City, working with the Centers development staff on public relations and events. The Gilman Scholarship has enabled more than 25,000 outstanding Americans of diverse backgrounds to engage in a meaningful educational experience abroad. The program has successfully broadened U.S. participation in study abroad, while emphasizing countries and regions where fewer Americans traditionally study. The Gilman Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of States Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and is supported in its implementation by the Institute of International Education (IIE). Ncell tax issue prolongs as court upholds order not to collect dues The legal battle between the tax authorities and Ncell and its parent firm, Axiata, over capital gains tax is set to prolong as the Supreme Court continued its interim order to the government to not collect the dues from the mobile company. Here is the audio and transcript, this was one of my favorite Conversations. Here is the CWTeam summary: Knausgards literary freedom paves the way for this conversation with Tyler, which starts with a discussion of mimesis and ends with an explanation of why we live in the world of Munchs The Scream. Along the way there is much more, including what he learned from reading Ingmar Bergmans workbooks, the worst thing about living in London, how having children increased his productivity, whether he sees himself in a pietistic tradition, thoughts on Bible stories, angels, Knut Hamsun, Elena Ferrante, the best short story (Tlon, Uqbar, Orbis Tertius), the best poet (Paul Celan), the best movie (Scenes from a Marriage), and what his punctual arrival says about his attachment to bourgeois values. Here is one excerpt: KNAUSGARD: You have this almost archetypical artist putting his art before his children, before his family, before everything. You have also Doris Lessing who did the same abandoned her children to move to London to write. Ive been kind of confronted with that as a writer, and I think everyone does because writing is so time consuming and so demanding. When I got children, I had this idea that writing was a solitary thing. I could go out to small islands in the sea. I could go to lighthouses, live there, try to write in complete . . . be completely solitary and alone. When I got children, that was an obstruction for my writing, I thought. But it wasnt. It was the other way around. Ive never written as much as I have after I got the children, after I started to write at home, after I kind of established writing in the middle of life. It was crawling with life everywhere. And what happened was that writing became less important. It became less precious. It became more ordinary. It became less religious or less sacred. It became something ordinary, and that was incredibly important for me because that was eventually where I wanted to go into the ordinary and mundane, even, and try to connect to what was going on in life. Life isnt sacred. Life isnt uplifted. It is ordinary and boring and all the things, we know. And: COWEN: So many great Norwegian writers Ibsen, Sigrid Undset, Knut Hamsun theres nationalism in their work. Yet today, liberals tend to think of nationalism as an unspeakable evil of sorts. How do we square this with the evolution of Norwegian writing? And if one thinks of your own career, arguably its your extreme popularity in Norway at first that drove your later fame. Whats the connection of your own work to Norwegian nationalism? Are you the first non-nationalist great Norwegian writer? Is that plausible? Or is there some deeper connection? KNAUSGARD: I think so much writing is done out of a feeling of not belonging. If you read Knut Hamsun, he was a Nazi. I mean, he was a full-blooded Nazi. We have to be honest about that. COWEN: His best book might be his Nazi book, right? He wrote it when he was what, 90? KNAUSGARD: Yeah. COWEN: On Overgrown Paths? KNAUSGARD: Yeah. COWEN: To me, its much more interesting than the novels, which are a kind of artifice that hasnt aged so well. KNAUSGARD: Yeah. COWEN: But you read On Overgrown Paths, you feel like youre there. Its about self-deception. KNAUSGARD: Its true, its a wonderful book. But I think Hamsuns theme, his subject, is rootlessness. In a very rooted society, in a rural society, in a family-orientated society like Norway has been a small society he was a very rootless, very urban writer. He went to America, and he hated America, but he was America. He had that in him. He was there in the late 19th century, and he wrote a book about it, which is a terrible book, but still, he was there, and he had that modernity in him. He never wrote about his parents. Never wrote about where he came from. All his characters just appear, and then something happens with them, but theres no past. I found that incredibly intriguing just because he became the Nazi. He became the farmer. He became the one who sang the song about the growth. What do you call it? Markens Grde. COWEN: Growth of the Soil. And: COWEN: Arnold Weinstein has a book on Nordic culture, and he argues that the sacrifice of the child is a recurring theme. Its in Kierkegaards Fear and Trembling. Its in a number of Ibsen plays, Bergman movies. Has that influenced you? Or are you a rejection of that? Are you like Edvard Munch, but with children, and thats the big difference between you and Munch, the painter? I told you we ask different questions. KNAUSGARD: Yeah, yeah. You just said different. You didnt say difficult. Knausgaard showed up for the taping carrying a package of black bread, which he forgot to take with him when leaving. So for the rest of the day, I enjoyed his black bread Ad ProTrading Research Are These Metaverse Stocks in Your Portfolio? Fortune 500 Companies, Semiconductor producers, and even some of the largest sportswear manufacturers are all betting big by investing in a market Bloomberg Intelligence says could be worth $800 Billion by 2024. Get the free report with the 5 most promising stocks to capitalize on the groundbreaking Metaverse. Deb Ivanhoe and Dr. Len Horovitz (HealthDay)New York's ongoing measles epidemic alarmed midtown Manhattan resident Deb Ivanhoe, who couldn't remember whether she'd ever been vaccinated as a child. So Ivanhoe, 60, sought out her long-time primary care doctor, who performed an antibody test to see whether she had any protection against measles. To her surprise, the test revealed that Ivanhoe had no immunity to measles. Her doctor quickly gave her a measles booster shot. "I'm a New Yorker. I'm out and about. I take the subway every day," Ivanhoe said of her concerns. "One of the outbreak areas is in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. I have friends in Williamsburg. I go to there to visit, for dinner. It all becomes local." Ivanhoe is one of a growing number of adults who are worried that their immunity against measles might have lapsed, if they even received a vaccination. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has downplayed these concerns, saying that only adults in high-risk groups should talk with their doctor about a measles vaccination. But experts are divided on whether the CDC is underestimating the threat posed by possibly waning immunity in adults. New outbreaks, new dangers There's good reason adults are worried. At least 764 cases of measles across 23 states have been reported so far this year, the CDC says. Most cases have occurred in unvaccinated groups living in communities located on either side of the nation, in the areas surrounding New York City and Portland, Ore. The high-risk groups of adults who should discuss measles vaccination with their doctor include international travelers, health care workers, and folks living in communities that are in the throes of an outbreak, Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said in a media briefing last week. "Most adults are protected against measles. That's what the science says," Messonnier said. "That includes people who were born before measles vaccine was recommended, and even folks who only got a single dose." Ivanhoe's physician, Dr. Len Horovitz, said her antibody test "clearly proves that is not the case." Horovitz recommends his adult patients get a blood test that shows the level of antibodies they have against measles and other infectious diseases. "By the time you reach your [childhood] pediatrician it'll be weeks, if he's still even alive and hasn't retired or moved," said Horovitz, an internist with Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. "It's impossible to get vaccination records for my patients. They're tearing their hair out." But, Horovitz noted, "In a 24-hour turn-around time, I can offer them a blood test and have an answer." Waning effectiveness of early vaccine Besides people at high risk due to their circumstances, there's only one group of adults that really should talk with their doctor about getting the measles shot, the CDC says. One of the first measles vaccines used a killed version of virus, and was administered between 1963 and 1967. That vaccine did not provide lasting immunity, and for decades the CDC has urged that generation of folks to undergo vaccination with the better live version of the measles vaccine. "If you happen to be someone 50 years ago that got this killed measles vaccine, then you'd have to get re-vaccinated with the live virus vaccine," said Dr. Sandra Fryhofer, an internal medicine specialist in Atlanta. People born in the United States earlier than 1957 are presumed to be immune to measles because the virus is so contagious everyone caught measles in those days. Pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. Matthew Zahn says the CDC is right that most adults are protected against measles. "Our experience overwhelmingly has been that it becomes a numbers game," said Zahn, who is on staff at the Children's Hospital Orange County in Orange, Calif. "The vaccine seems to be about 99% effective in keeping you from getting sick, but if you have hundreds and hundreds of people who are exposed, then you will see occasional cases of persons who've been vaccinated previously who are getting sick anyway." Best use of resources Zahn figures people who are worried about the status of their measles immunity should just go ahead and get the vaccine, rather than go through an antibody test. "If you're not sure you've had your two doses before and you want to be up to date, there's nothing wrong with getting that additional dose," Zahn said, noting that a person who undergoes the antibody test pays extra and faces getting stuck with a needle twice. There's plenty of measles vaccine on hand so there's no concern about shortages, Zahn said. Doctors are simply trying to focus their attention on the most critical weaknesses in America's immune protection, and waning adult immunity doesn't seem to be contributing to the ongoing outbreaks. "It's more of an issue where you want to best use everybody's time and resources," Zahn said. "We certainly are seeing outbreaks, but those outbreaks are so weighted towards unvaccinated persons, that's where the community is by far at risk." More information: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more about The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more about measles Copyright 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Increasing rates of alcohol use suggest that the world is not on track to achieve targets against harmful alcohol use, according to a study of 189 countries' alcohol intake between 1990-2017 and estimated intake up to 2030, published in The Lancet. As a result of increased alcohol consumption and population growth, the total volume of alcohol consumed globally per year has increased by 70% (from 20,999 million litres in 1990 to 35,676 million litres in 2017). Intake is growing in low- and middle-income countries, while the total volume of alcohol consumed in high-income countries has remained stable. The estimates suggest that by 2030 half of all adults will drink alcohol, and almost a quarter (23%) will binge drink at least once a month. Alcohol is a major risk factor for disease, and is causally linked to over 200 diseases, in particular non-communicable diseases and injuries. "Our study provides a comprehensive overview of the changing landscape in global alcohol exposure. Before 1990, most alcohol was consumed in high-income countries, with the highest use levels recorded in Europe. However, this pattern has changed substantially, with large reductions across Eastern Europe and vast increases in several middle-income countries such as China, India, and Vietnam. This trend is forecast to continue up to 2030 when Europe is no longer predicted to have the highest level of alcohol use," says study author Jakob Manthey, TU Dresden, Germany. He continues: "Based on our data, the WHO's aim of reducing the harmful use of alcohol by 10% by 2025 will not be reached globally. Instead, alcohol use will remain one of the leading risk factors for the burden of disease for the foreseeable future, and its impact will probably increase relative to other risk factors. Implementation of effective alcohol policies is warranted, especially in rapidly developing countries with growing rates of alcohol use." Monitoring alcohol use is part of several international programmes, including the WHO's Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs 2013-2020, the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, and the WHO's Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol. These targets are based on per capita alcohol consumption in adults (the number of litres of pure alcohol consumed per person aged 15 years or more in a year taking into account recorded and unrecorded use, and tourism). The new study measured per capita alcohol consumption using data for 189 countries between 1990-2017 from the WHO and the Global Burden of Disease study. Over the same period, it also measured prevalence of people who did not drink for their whole lives or were current drinkers (ie, drank alcohol at least once a year) using surveys for 149 countries, and binge drinkers (drinking 60g or more pure alcohol in one sitting once or more within 30 days) using surveys from 118 countries. Using estimates of gross domestic product and the religious composition of the population, the results were modelled to create estimates for all 189 countries up to 2030. In 2017, the lowest alcohol intakes were in North African and Middle Eastern countries (typically less than 1 litre per adult per year), while the highest intakes were in Central and Eastern European countries (in some cases more than 12 litres per adult per year). At the country-level, Moldova had the highest alcohol intake (15 litres per adult per year), and Kuwait had the lowest (0.005 litres per person per year) Globally, alcohol consumption is set to increase from 5.9 litres pure alcohol a year per adult in 1990 to 7.6 litres in 2030. However, intake varied regionally. Between 2010-2017, consumption increased by 34% in southeast Asia (from 3.5 litres to 4.7 litres), with increases in India, Vietnam and Myanmar. In Europe, consumption reduced by 12% (from 11.2 to 9.8 litres), mainly due to decreases in former Soviet Republics such as Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia. Intake levels remained similar in African, American, and Eastern Mediterranean regions. In the UK, consumption decreased from 12.3 litres in 2010 to 11.4 litres in 2017, compared to increases of 38% in India (from 4.3 to 5.9 litres). Over the same timescale, consumption increased slightly in the USA (9.3-9.8 litres) and in China (7.1-7.4 litres). Globally, the prevalence of lifetime abstinence decreased from 46% in 1990 to 43% in 2017, while the prevalence of current drinking increased from 45% in 1990 to 47% in 2017, and the prevalence of heavy episodic drinking increased from 18.5% to 20%. However, the authors note that the changes in abstinence and heavy episodic drinking are not statistically significant. They estimate these trends to continue, and that by 2030 40% of people will abstain from alcohol, 50% of people will drink alcohol, and almost a quarter (23%) will binge drink at least once a month. They note that, globally, and in most regions, the volume of alcohol consumed grows faster than the number of drinkers (for example, alcohol per capita is expected to grow by 17.8% from 6.5-7.6 litres globally between 2018-2030, while the number of current drinkers is estimated to grow by just 5% from 47.3% to 49.8% in the same timeframe), meaning the average alcohol intake per drinker is forecasted to increase. Increased alcohol intake per drinker not only results in a growing proportion of heavy episodic drinkers, but also inevitably leads to an increased alcohol-attributable disease burden. "Alcohol use is prevalent globally, but with clear regional differences that can largely be attributed to religion, implementation of alcohol policies, and economic growth. Economic growth seems to explain the global increase in alcohol use over the past few decadesfor example, the economic transitions and increased wealth of several countriesin particular, the transitions of China and Indiawere accompanied by increased alcohol use. The growing alcohol market in middle-income countries is estimated to more than outweigh the declining use in high-income countries, resulting in a global increase," says Mr Manthey. The authors note some limitations, including that there is uncertainty around estimates of unrecorded alcohol consumption, in addition to scarcity of data in certain regions. In addition, drinking status estimates were based on surveys, where individuals often under-report their intake. Their estimates for 2018-2030 are based on economic conditions and religion only, and cannot take future policy changes or behaviour changes into account. Writing in a linked Comment, Dr. Sarah Callinan, La Trobe University, Australia, notes that the shift in alcohol consumption globally from high-income to lower income countries could lead to disproportionate increases in harm, as the harm per litre of alcohol is substantially higher in low-income and middle-income countries than in high-income countries. She says: "An increasingly robust evidence base supports use of key alcohol policy levers such as increasing price and restricting availability to curtail growing alcohol consumption beyond Europe and North America. However, this evidence comes largely from high-income countries, and the potential efficacy of such policies in lower-middle-income countries, where more than half of alcohol consumption is unrecorded, is likely to be limited without substantial reductions in unrecorded alcohol consumption (although previous studies show that unrecorded consumption tends to decline with economic development). Thus, although price or availability-based policies are important, strict restrictions on advertising and other promotional activities are crucial to slow the growing demand for alcohol in these countries. Similarly, rigorous drink-driving countermeasures are necessary so that increasing consumption does not lead to increases in road traffic injury. Supporting evidence-based policies outside high-income countries, despite anticipated strong industry resistance, will be a key task for public health advocates in the coming decades." More information: Jakob Manthey et al, Global alcohol exposure between 1990 and 2017 and forecasts until 2030: a modelling study, The Lancet (2019). Journal information: The Lancet Jakob Manthey et al, Global alcohol exposure between 1990 and 2017 and forecasts until 2030: a modelling study,(2019). DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(18)32744-2 Dr. Li Dianyou uses a tablet computer to adjust the settings of a deep brain stimulation device implanted in the brain of a methamphetamine user named Yan, left, on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018, at Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, China. Western attempts to push forward with human trials of DBS for drug addiction have foundered, even as China has emerged as a hub for this kind of research. But the vast suffering wrought by the U.S. opioid epidemic may be changing the risk-reward calculus. Now, the experimental surgery Yan underwent is coming to America. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) Patient Number One is a thin man, with a scabby face and bouncy knees. His head, shaved in preparation for surgery, is wrapped in a clean, white cloth. Years of drug use cost him his wife, his money and his self-respect, before landing him in this drab yellow room at a Shanghai hospital, facing the surgeon who in 72 hours will drill two small holes in his skull and feed electrodes deep into his brain. The hope is that technology will extinguish his addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. The treatmentdeep brain stimulationhas long been used for movement disorders like Parkinson's. Now, the first clinical trial of DBS for methamphetamine addiction is being conducted at Shanghai's Ruijin Hospital, along with parallel trials for opioid addiction. And this troubled man is the very first patient. The surgery involves implanting a device that acts as a kind of pacemaker for the brain, electrically stimulating targeted areas. While Western attempts to push forward with human trials of DBS for addiction have foundered, China is emerging as a hub for this research. Scientists in Europe have struggled to recruit patients for their DBS addiction studies, and complex ethical, social and scientific questions have made it hard to push forward with this kind of work in the United States, where the devices can cost $100,000 to implant. China has a long, if troubled, history of brain surgery for drug addiction. Even today, China's punitive anti-drug laws can force people into years of compulsory treatment, including "rehabilitation" through labor. It has a large patient population, government funding and ambitious medical device companies ready to pay for DBS research. There are eight registered DBS clinical trials for drug addiction being conducted in the world, according to a U.S. National Institutes of Health database. Six are in China. Bloodied white mesh covers the head of a methamphetamine user named Yan on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018, three days after he had a deep brain stimulation device implanted as part of a clinical trial at Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, China. The hope is that DBS will extinguish his addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. Critics say such human experiments are premature and risky, but U.S. regulators in February greenlighted a human trial of DBS for opioid addiction at West Virginia University. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) But the suffering wrought by the opioid epidemic may be changing the risk-reward calculus for doctors and regulators in the United States. Now, the experimental surgery Patient Number One is about to undergo is coming to America. In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration greenlighted a clinical trial in West Virginia of DBS for opioid addiction. ___ HUMAN EXPERIMENTS Patient Number One insisted that only his surname, Yan, be published; he fears losing his job if he is identified. He said doctors told him the surgery wasn't risky. "But I still get nervous," he said. "It's my first time to go on the operating table." Three of Yan's friends introduced him to meth in a hotel room shortly after the birth of his son in 2011. They told him: Just do it once, you've had your kid, you won't have problems. Smoking made Yan feel faint and slightly unhinged. Later, he found meth brought crystalline focus to his mind, which he directed at one thing: Cards. Every time Yan smoked, he gambled. And every time he gambled, he lostall told, around $150,000 since he started using drugs, he estimated. His wife divorced him. He rarely saw his son. This Monday, Oct. 29, 2018, photo shows a brain scan of a methamphetamine user with the path of electrodes that doctors at Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, China implanted to stimulate an area of the brain associated with addiction. Western attempts to push forward with human trials of deep brain stimulation for drug addiction have foundered, even as China has emerged as a hub for this kind of research. But the vast suffering wrought by the U.S. opioid epidemic may be changing the risk-reward calculus. Now, the experimental surgery for addiction is coming to America. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) Yan checked into a hospital for detox, moved to another town to get away from bad influences, took Chinese traditional medicine. But he relapsed every time. "My willpower is weak," he said. Last year his father, who had a friend who had undergone DBS surgery at Ruijin, gave him an ultimatum: Back to rehab or brain surgery. "Of course, I chose surgery," Yan said. "With surgery, I definitely have the chance to get my life back." Before there were brain implants in China there was brain lesioning. Desperate families of heroin users paid thousands of dollars for unproven and risky surgeries in which doctors destroyed small clumps of brain tissue. Brain lesioning quickly became a profit center at some hospitals, but it also left a trail of patients with mood disorders, lost memories and altered sex drives. In 2004, China's Ministry of Health ordered a halt to brain lesioning for addiction at most hospitals. Nine years later, doctors at a military hospital in Xi'an reported that roughly half of the 1,167 patients who had their brains lesioned stayed off drugs for at least five years. DBS builds on that history. But unlike lesioning, which irreversibly kills brain cells, the devices allow brain interventions that arein theoryreversible. The technology has opened a fresh field of human experimentation globally. "As doctors we always need to think about the patients," said Dr. Sun Bomin, director of Ruijin Hospital's functional neurosurgery department. "They are human beings. You cannot say, 'Oh, we do not have any help, any treatment for you guys.'" Sun said he has served as a consultant for two Chinese companies that make deep brain stimulatorsSceneRay Corp. and Beijing PINS Medical Co. He has tried to turn Ruijin into a center of DBS research, not just for addiction, but also Tourette syndrome, depression and anorexia. In China, DBS devices can cost less than $25,000. Many patients pay cash. A brain surgery patient walks down the main corridor of Ruijin Hospital's functional neurosurgery center in Shanghai, China on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018. Doctors at Ruijin are experimenting with brain surgery to treat a range of psychiatric conditions, including anorexia, Tourette syndrome and addiction. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) "You can rest assured for the safety of this operation," Yan's surgeon, Dr. Li Dianyou, told him. "It is no problem. When it comes to effectiveness, you are not the first one, nor the last one. You can take it easy because we have done this a lot." In fact, there are risks. There is a small chance Yan could die of a brain hemorrhage. He could emerge with changes to his personality, seizures, or an infection. And in the end, he may go right back on drugs. ____ A BUZZING DRILL Some critics believe this surgery should not be allowed. They argue that such human experiments are premature, and will not address the complex biological, social and psychological factors that drive addiction. Scientists don't fully understand how DBS works and there is still debate about where electrodes should be placed to treat addiction. There is also skepticism in the global scientific community about the general quality and ethical rigorparticularly around issues like informed consentof clinical trials done in China. "It would be fantastic if there were something where we could flip a switch, but it's probably fanciful at this stage," said Adrian Carter, who heads the neuroscience and society group at Monash University in Melbourne. "There's a lot of risks that go with promoting that idea." The failure of two large-scale, U.S. clinical trials on DBS for depression around five years ago prompted soul-searching about what threshold of scientific understanding must be met in order to design effective, ethical experiments. People walk past an entrance to Ruijin Hospital on Thursday, Oct. 25, 2018, in Shanghai, China. Doctors at Ruijin have tried to turn the hospital into a center of deep brain stimulation research. The hope is that the technology will heal a host of conditions, including addiction, with the flip of a switch. Western attempts to push forward with human trials of DBS for addiction have foundered, even as China emerged as a hub for this kind of research. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) "We've had a reset in the field," said Dr. Nader Pouratian, a neurosurgeon at UCLA who is investigating the use of DBS for chronic pain. He said it's "a perfectly appropriate time" to research DBS for drug addiction, but only "if we can move forward in ethical, well-informed, well-designed studies." In China, meanwhile, scientists are charging ahead. At 9 a.m. on a grey October Friday in Shanghai, Dr. Li drilled through Yan's skull and threaded two electrodes down to his nucleus accumbens, a small structure near the base of the forebrain that has been implicated in addiction. Yan was awake during the surgery. The buzzing of the drill made him tremble. At 4 p.m. the same day, Yan went under general anesthesia for a second surgery to implant a battery pack in his chest to power the electrodes in his skull. Three hours later, Yan still hadn't woken from the anesthesia. His father began weeping. His doctors wondered if drug abuse had somehow altered his sensitivity to anesthesia. Finally, after 10 hours, Yan opened his eyes. ___ Doctors discuss a plan on how to implant a deep brain stimulation device in the brain of a methamphetamine addict named Yan on Friday, Oct. 26, 2018. Western attempts to push forward with human trials of DBS for drug addiction have foundered, even as China has emerged as a hub for this kind of research. But the vast suffering wrought by the U.S. opioid epidemic may be changing the risk-reward calculus. Now, the experimental surgery Yan underwent is coming to America. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) A stereotactic device presses into the head of a brain surgery patient at Ruijin Hospital's functional neurosurgery center in Shanghai, China on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018. Doctors at Ruijin are experimenting with deep brain stimulation as a treatment for addiction. The hope is that the technology will extinguish addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. Critics say such experiments are premature and risky, but U.S. regulators in February greenlighted a human trial of DBS for opioid addiction at West Virginia University. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) A man leaves the Center for Functional Neurosurgery at Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, China on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018. Doctors at Ruijin have tried to turn the hospital into a center of deep brain stimulation research. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) BODY COUNT According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 500,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in the decade ending in 2017increasingly, from synthetic opioids that come mainly from China, U.S. officials say. That's more than the number of U.S. soldiers who died in World War II and Vietnam combined. The body count has added urgency to efforts to find new, more effective treatments for addiction. While doctors in the U.S. are interested in using DBS for addiction, work funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health is still focused on experiments in animals, not people. At least two U.S. laboratories dropped clinical trials of DBS for treating alcoholism over concerns about study design and preliminary results that didn't seem to justify the risks, investigators who led the studies told The Associated Press. "The lack of scientific clarity, the important but strict regulatory regime, along with the high cost and risk of surgery make clinical trials of DBS for addiction in the U.S. difficult at the present time," said Dr. Emad Eskandar, the chairman of neurological surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. China's studies have offered mixed results. Sun and his colleagues have published one case study, describing a patient who used heroin and fatally overdosed three months after getting DBS. But a separate pilot study published in January by doctors at a military hospital in Xi'an showed that five of eight heroin users stayed off drugs for two years after DBS surgery. Based on those results, SceneRay is seeking Chinese regulatory approval of its DBS device for opioid addiction, and funding a multi-site clinical trial targeting 60 participants. SceneRay chairman Ning Yihua said his application for a clinical trial in the U.S. was blocked by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. But in February, the FDA greenlighted a small, separate trial of DBS for opioid use disorder, said Dr. Ali Rezai, who is leading the study at the West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. They hope to launch the trial in June, with funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. A nurse walks through the functional neurosurgery center at Shanghai's Ruijin Hospital on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018. Doctors at Ruijin are experimenting with brain surgery to treat a range of psychiatric conditions, including anorexia, Tourette syndrome and addiction. Six of the eight human trials of deep brain stimulation for addiction underway globally are being done in China, according to a U.S. government database. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) The FDA declined comment. "People are dying," Rezai said. "Their lives are devastated. It's a brain issue. We need to explore all options." ___ 'YOU CAME TOO LATE' Two unsteady days after Yan's surgery, doctors switched on his DBS device. As the electrodes activated, he felt a surge of excitement. The current running through his body kept him awake; he said he spent the whole night thinking about drugs. The next day, he sat across from Dr. Li, who used a tablet computer to remotely adjust the machine thrumming inside Yan's head. "Cheerful?" Li asked as the touched the controls on the tablet. "Yes," Yan answered. Orderlies roll a brain surgery patient out of the functional neurosurgery center at Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, China on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018. Doctors at Ruijin are experimenting with deep brain stimulation as a treatment for addiction. The hope is that the technology will extinguish addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. Critics say such experiments are premature and risky, but U.S. regulators in February greenlighted a human trial of DBS for opioid addiction at West Virginia University. (AP Photo/Erika Kinetz) Li changed the settings. "Now?" "Agitated," Yan said. He felt heat in his chest, then a beating sensation, numbness and fatigue. Yan began to sweat. Li made a few more modifications. "Any feelings now?" "Pretty happy now," Yan said. He was in high spirits. "This machine is pretty magical. He adjusts it to make you happy and you're happy, to make you nervous and you're nervous," Yan said. "It controls your happiness, anger, grief and joy." Yan left the hospital the next morning. More than six months later, he said he's still off drugs. With sobriety, his skin cleared and he put on 20 pounds. When his friends got back in touch, he refused their drugs. He tried to rekindle his relationship with his ex-wife, but she was pregnant with her new husband's child. "The only shame is that you came too late," she told him. Sometimes, in his new life, he touches the hard cable in his neck that leads from the battery pack to the electrodes in his brain. And he wonders: What is the machine doing inside his head? Explore further Meds can help recovering meth addicts stay sober 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. Credit: CC0 Public Domain A mysterious epidemic of chronic kidney disease among agricultural workers and manual laborers may be caused by a combination of increasingly hot temperatures, toxins and infections, according to researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The study was published today in the New England Journal of Medicine. In recent years, chronic kidney disease has emerged as a major illness among workers in hot climates. It was first identified in the 1990s by clinicians treating sugar cane workers in Central America. In 2012, it claimed roughly 20,000 lives and has now been identified in California, Florida and in Colorado's San Luis Valley. But the exact cause has been hard to determine. "We looked at all the available literature on the subject and asked, `What do we know today? Where are the gaps?" said the study's lead author Lee Newman, MD, MA, director of the Center for Health, Work & Environment and professor in the Dept. of Environmental & Occupational Health at the Colorado School of Public Health. "We were hoping to synthesize everything we know so far for a framework for moving forward." The disease is more prevalent in sugar cane workers and other agricultural employees including cotton and corn workers, shrimp farmers and miners. It is less common at higher elevations. Newman and study co-author Richard Johnson, MD, of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, said the disease could be caused by heat, a direct health impact of climate change, as well as pesticides like glyphosate. "Some pesticides are nephrotoxic, and these could possibly contaminate the water supply," Johnson said. "Indeed, there are studies showing the epidemic in Sri Lanka is greatest in areas where there are shallow wells in which toxins might become concentrated." Sri Lankan farmers exposed to glyphosate showed an increased risk for chronic kidney disease. Still, the levels in wells were very low and studies in Central America turned up little glyphosate. Along with pesticides, the researchers looked at heavy metals as a possible culprit. Lead and cadmium, known to cause kidney injury, have been reported in the soils of Sri Lanka and Central America. Other potential causes include infectious diseases that can hurt the kidneys such as the hanta virus and leptospirosis, common in sugar cane workers. Genetic factors are also a possibility. "The common factors are heat exposure and heavy labor," Newman said. Heat stress and persistent dehydration can cause kidney damage. The disease is moving into the U.S. with agricultural workers in Florida, California's Central Valley and Colorado's San Luis Valley reporting incidences of the illness. "This is not the usual kidney disease we see in the U.S.," Newman said. "It is not caused by high blood pressure or diabetes. The usual suspects are not the cause." Johnson pointed out that CU Anschutz has two major efforts underway that are investigating worker health and the impact of climate change on disease. "This disease is not confined to the southern hemisphere, it is coming here and in fact it is already here," Johnson said. "It is my opinion that climate change plays a role in this epidemic." Those impacted are mostly agricultural workers, the people who grow and harvest the world's food. "They are the people who feed the planet," Johnson said. "If climate change continues like this who is going to feed us?" Newman and Johnson believe the epidemic is caused by a combination of heat and some kind of toxin and they recognize the need to take preventative action immediately. That means ensuring workers get adequate breaks, drink enough fluids and spend time in the shade. It also means maintaining a clean water supply, free of chemicals toxic to the kidneys. "When clinicians detect clusters of patients with chronic kidney disease who work for the same employer or in similar jobs," the authors said, "they should contact occupational health and safety and public health professionals to promote investigations of workplace conditions." Explore further Mysterious disease may be tied to climate change, researcher says Hospitalizations for a feared complication of diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), rise sharply as adolescents transition to adulthood in the U.S, but not in Canada, according to a new study published May 8 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. DKA can generally be prevented with regular use of insulin. The increased DKA rate in the U.S. occurs around age 18, a time when many adolescents change or lose insurance coverage, a disruption that places them at risk for skipping medical visits or being unable to afford insulin. The study, conducted by an international team of researchers at the Harvard Medical School, Cambridge Health Alliance, the City University of New York at Hunter College, and the University of Manitoba in Canada, analyzed nearly 170,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. and 1,300 in Manitoba, Canada. Among teenagers, the investigators found, the DKA hospitalization rate was slightly higher in the U.S. compared to Manitoba. However, as teenagers became young adults, the hospitalization rate soared by 90% in the U.S., but only rose 23% in Canada. "The U.S. health care system is failing far too many patients, including those with diabetes," noted lead author Dr. Adam Gaffney, an instructor at Harvard Medical School and a pulmonary and critical care physician at Cambridge Health Alliance. "In American, 29 million are uninsured, while far more face unaffordable deductibles or sky-high drug costsincluding for insulin. The consequences can be deadly." "Despite Obamacare, millions of Americans are uninsured, and the uninsurance rate is highest among young adults," noted Dr. Andrea Christopher, lead author and a primary care doctor now at the University of Washington School of Medicine. "Even with insurance, drug copayments are often so high that young people with diabetes can't afford the insulin they need to survive." Dr. Steffie Woolhandler, study author and a distinguished professor of public health at CUNY's Hunter College and lecturer in medicine at Harvard Medical School added, "We know from other studies that thousands die each year because they're uninsured, and millions skip their medications because of costs. Meanwhile, drug companies have been hiking the price of insulin and other vital drugs in our country, charging twice as much as elsewhere. The combination of poor coverage and outrageous drug prices often lands patients in the hospitalor worse." More information: Adam Gaffney et al, The Incidence of Diabetic Ketoacidosis During "Emerging Adulthood" in the USA and Canada: a Population-Based Study, Journal of General Internal Medicine (2019). Journal information: Journal of General Internal Medicine Adam Gaffney et al, The Incidence of Diabetic Ketoacidosis During "Emerging Adulthood" in the USA and Canada: a Population-Based Study,(2019). DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-05006-6 Provided by Physicians for a National Health Program Imagine a not-too-distant future when medical devices powered by artificial intelligence continuously adapt to new symptoms presented by patients and learn how to make accurate diagnoses much like a well-trained physician would. The Food and Drug Administration is preparing for such a future and weighing how to assess and certify such medical devices, seeing them more like living things that can't be regulated in the same manner as old-fashioned equipment. The agency is pivoting to new ways of assessing devices driven by machine learning and artificial intelligence because traditional approaches don't apply to the new machines, Bakul Patel, director of the FDA's digital health division, said in an interview. As technology evolves, "artificial intelligence and machine-learning based devices can be created quickly, and iterations of the product" can be rapidly fielded, Patel said. "It's a living thing to some degree, so having a concept of authorizing it (to) go to market and waiting for things to happen and then doing a review seems to be outdated." In early April the agency released a white paper outlining a total product lifecycle approach that will focus on processes, quality control, testing and the organizational culture of the maker of such medical devices rather than the typical static assessment of a piece of equipment. The agency is seeking comments and feedback on the proposals. Such an approach "would provide reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness throughout the lifecycle of the organization and products so that patients, caregivers, health care professionals, and other users have assurance of the safety and quality of those products," the FDA said in the white paper. The agency's proposal calls for assessing the device maker's overall culture, starting with an assessment of its machine-learning practices, which include the kinds of data chosen to train and fine-tune algorithms, how the manufacturer intends to turn the training model into a production one, the process used to monitor and evaluate performance of the model once it's deployed, and how the company will take the real-world data to retrain its model. The FDA's oversight of the medical device approval process has been found wanting in other areas. After a yearlong investigation, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists last year found that the agency approved implant devices too quickly and failed to stop devices inserted into patients, such as breast implants, mesh and surgical staplers, from being sold and used despite receiving many complaints from patients and doctors. The investigation cited the FDA's fast-track approval process for devices, known as the 510(K), as one reason the faulty devices were being sold. The FDA's new approach to artificial intelligence-driven devices extends the agency's fast-track process. The agency is testing the new process, intended to apply to emerging devices that have the capability to evolve, learn and modify their software algorithms to yield better results, said Zach Rothstein, associate vice president for technology and regulatory affairs at AdvaMed, a trade group that advocates for the use of technology in health care. The group is preparing comments on the FDA's proposal, he said. "Right now under FDA statute and rules, there isn't a mechanism for the agency to let that happen," Rothstein said. "All products that use machine learning and neural networks are locked, in the sense they're not evolving anymore, and the FDA is attempting to come up with a pathway to allow products to learn in a post-market environment." A so-called locked algorithm used in an artificial intelligence device means that any changes to the algorithm based on new information gathered from real-life use would "likely require FDA premarket review for changes beyond the original market authorization," the agency said in its proposal. One such locked artificial intelligence-based device the FDA approved last year is called the IDx-DR, which autonomously analyzes images of a patient's retina for signs of diabetic retinopathya disease that causes swelling in parts of the retina of diabetic patients and leads to vision loss. Unlike other artificial intelligence-based devices that require a physician to confirm a machine's diagnosis, the IDx-DR's decision is made autonomously without human oversight, said Michael Abramoff, the founder and CEO of IDx Technologies, based in Coralville, Iowa. The device is typically installed in primary care practices and can be operated by anyone with a high school diploma, Abramoff said. Using a fundus cameraa low power microscope attached to a camerathe device takes pictures of a patient's retina and sends them to a secure server where the algorithm resides and returns an assessment in less than a minute, according to the company. Instead of trying to average out multiple doctors' assessments of a given image, the algorithm assesses likely outcome for a patient, Abramoff said. "We look at images of retina, and given that image, assess what's going to happen to the patient if you don't treat, rather than look at whether doctors agree with each other," Abramoff said. The algorithm employs a series of deep-learning detectors to look for lesions that indicate diabetic retinopathy and recommends referral to an eye care physician if it detects more than mild diabetic retinopathy. The device was approved by the FDA after it went through a clinical trial involving 900 patients with diabetes at 10 different primary care sites, according to the agency. The FDA's proposal to find new ways to assess continuously adapting artificial intelligence-based devices is an extension of a process that began nearly five years ago when the agency issued its first guidance on mobile medical applications. Since then the agency has steadily moved toward assessing the overall quality of a software maker instead of trying to certify each iteration of software. The FDA already has in place a precertification pilot program that began in 2017 for makers of software that function as medical devices. Software makers who are approved under this process could potentially launch new products without the FDA's premarket review or win approval with a few simple steps. The FDA's Patel said the approach is similar to the Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck program that allows cleared passengers to go through security without taking off their shoes or removing laptops from bags. Once the agency is satisfied that a company's culture and organization structure is geared toward patient safety, the software maker is granted the precertification, Patel said. Nine companies are participating in the pilot program, including Apple, Fitbit, Samsung and Johnson & Johnson. In September 2018, Apple Watch's Series 4 devices, for example, were cleared by the FDA for two new applications that allow the device to perform an electrocardiogram of a user's heart as well as detect and alert a user to irregular heartbeats. Explore further US approves artificial-intelligence device for diabetic eye problems 2019 CQ-Roll Call, Inc., All Rights Reserved Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Pay transparency and diverse representation on hiring committees are first steps to leveling the financial playing field in medicine. Credit: CC0 Public Domain A system created to grade doctors and empower patients to make better decisions falls short of its goal of providing information useful to consumers, according to a study by University of Michigan researchers. "Physician Compare," a website by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, was set up to increase transparency and empower patients and caregivers on quality of care. The site is now on its final phase of expansion and has focused on adding clinician-level performance data, in addition to the data previously added about the performance of groups of physicians. Jun Li, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Health Management and Policy at U-M's School of Public Health, and colleagues analyzed records of more than 1 million U.S. providers caring for Medicare beneficiaries. They found that less than a quarter of providers have quality information on Physician Compare and only 1 percent have clinician-level quality information. "This study is important for two reasons," she said. "First, patients and caregivers want information to be able to make informed choices. Thus, it is important to determine whether that need is being met. Additionally, federal policymakers are expending a great deal of resources toward Physician Compare, therefore it is imperative that we know how well it is functioning and whether it needs to be improved." Among the team's key findings: Three quarters of clinicians have no performance data in the system 99 percent of those in the system have no clinician-level data Performance reflects only a narrow view of quality indicators such as safety, patient satisfaction and communication To increase the reliability of the system, the researchers suggest considering major revisions to the website, or determining whether a different approach might help achieve the Department of Health and Human Services' goal of increasing transparency around the quality of health care. For their analysis, the researchers used data from the Physician Compare National Downloadable File and the 2015 Medicare Data on Provider Practice and Specialty database, and included 1,025,015 U.S. providers caring for Medicare beneficiaries. More information: Jun Li et al. Assessing the Quality of Public Reporting of US Physician Performance, JAMA Internal Medicine (2019). Journal information: JAMA Internal Medicine Jun Li et al. Assessing the Quality of Public Reporting of US Physician Performance,(2019). DOI: 10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.0398 Credit: University of Minnesota On average, commuters in the U.S. spend more than 25 minutes commuting to work. Add in construction season or missing their bus, and the commute can become particularly unpleasant. Betty Zhou, an assistant professor in the Carlson School of Management who conducted research on the impact of stressful commutes, answers questions about how it can impact workers and employers. Q. What are some of the common stressors commuters face on a daily basis? Prof. Zhou: According to U.S. Census Bureau data, some commuters in the U.S. face the reality of an extremely long commute. Similar concerns were raised in other countries like China. Along with the length of commuting time, some of the common stressors faced by our research participantswho took the bus to work on a regular basis in Chinaincluded overcrowded buses; traffic jams and construction on the way to work; missing their bus; and other commuters riding bicycles or driving cars in the bus lane. These stressors may vary across different groups of commuters depending on their transportation means (e.g., bus vs. metro) and the larger context (e.g., infrastructure). Q. How does a stressful commute impact workers? Prof. Zhou: Research suggests that when going through two consecutive activitiessuch as commuting and then workingpeople's experiences in the first activity, particularly stress reactions, can carry over to affect their performance in the next activity. Therefore, workers can be negatively affected by a stressful commute because their mental resources were spent on regulating the negative emotions and thoughts triggered by the bad commute. They are then left with fewer resources to devote to their work in the hours immediately following their commute to work. In this way, a stressful commute can make it more difficult for workers to regulate proper workplace behaviors (e.g., proper interactions with customers), focus their energy on work tasks and accomplish work goals. Beyond our research, other studies have shown that commute quality is correlated with workers' affective and behavioral states, such as work-family conflict, aggressive behaviors and negative mood. Q. What can workers do to alleviate the impact of commuting on their workday? Prof. Zhou: Workers should try to find a reliable and safe way to get to work from home. If they cannot change the transportation means (e.g., they cannot afford a car or driving their own vehicles is too expensive in terms of parking cost), they can proactively manage their commute by collecting information about the schedule or current status of their usual rides, be aware of the weather and road conditions, and so on. Technologies can help commuters better manage this type of information. For example, if available, commuters can use smartphone apps to check the status of the buses or light-rail trains. Employees should also try to minimize the interference on work from family-related matters during work hours, such as scheduling home repairs during work hours, which could exacerbate the negative impact of stressful commute on work. In spite of a stressful commute, a significant task at worksuch as one with a large impact on colleaguescan also help focus workers' attention on their job despite a stressful commute. Q. How can employers and other organizations help reduce commuting stress and improve job performance? Prof. Zhou: Employers should be aware of the impact commuting has on employees. There is ample evidence that commuting can affect workers' job performance and well-being. It is an integral part of the work experience. Employers should keep in mind that employees may not have the ability to freely choose where they live and change their commute. Their employees have limited resources and are often responsible for the needs of their family members. By raising employers' awareness of the negative impact of commuting on employees' performance, which directly affects the company's bottom line, they may be more willing to support flexible work schedules, telecommuting or other alternative arrangements. Public transportation services can provide more timely updates on their vehicles via texts, emails or mobile apps. This way, commuters have better control over their schedule. Q. What is next for your scholarship and research in this space? Prof. Zhou: My collaborators and I feel it is important to develop and evaluate interventions that can help commuters improve their commuting experiences and cope with commuting stress so commuting has smaller negative impact on work and family. Since we conducted the studies, commuting conditions have not seemed to improve in certain regions in the U.S. and in major cities in China. Therefore, the need to understand how to cope with commutingespecially when the workers do not have alternatives regarding commuting means, commuting time and commuting routesis as strong as ever. A few potential areas for devising and implementing interventions include activities workers can do immediately after arriving at work and during work days which are low-cost to employers. These can include mini-recovery exercises that allow temporal detachment from work, as well as free services crowdsourced among commuters sharing similar commutes (e.g., chat groups for ride sharing, informational support and emotional support). Explore further Being a car commuter with obesity linked to a 32% increased death risk Shortage of funds affects Peoples Housing Programme in Gandaki Province Minraj BK of Phaichok in Rupa Rural Municipality, Kaski district, would often stare at the cracked walls of his house that was damaged during the 2015 earthquake, worrying about how to repair the house since it was not in the list of quake-affected houses. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Nipah virus, a bat-borne paramyxovirus found throughout South and South East Asia, has been identified by WHO as an emerging infectious disease that may cause severe epidemics in the near future. Infections in humans result in severe respiratory and neurological disease with a high case fatality. With no available treatment or vaccine, the control of Nipah virus outbreaks must rely on a detailed understanding of factors that may facilitate inter-human transmission. In this context, researchers from the Institut Pasteur, CNRS, and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, worked with colleagues at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), the Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control And Research (IEDCR), and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC), studied the transmission dynamics of Nipah virus during the last 14 years of outbreak investigations in Bangladesh, the country that has reported the largest number of cases. The study showed in particular that adult cases with respiratory symptoms transmitted the virus to more individuals than other cases, and might therefore be targeted for interventions when the isolation of all suspected Nipah cases is not possible. This research paves the way to more efficient control measures. These results will be published in the scientific journal NEJM on May 9th, 2019. Nipah virus is a bat-borne paramyxovirus found throughout South and South East Asia. With a case fatality of >70% and no available treatment or vaccines, Nipah virus was identified by the World Health Organization as an emerging infectious disease that may cause major epidemics if the pathogen evolves to become more transmissible, leading the organization to prioritize it for research to prevent future health emergencies. In the absence of efficient treatments or vaccines, the only way to control Nipah virus outbreaks are through targeted interventions that limit opportunities of spread. However, designing such interventions is challenging in a context where transmission mechanisms remain poorly understood. Further insights on mechanisms of person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus are therefore urgently needed. To unravel the drivers of person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus, researchers from the Institut Pasteur, CNRS, icddr,b, IEDCR, US CDC and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health studied the characteristics of all Nipah cases and over 2000 of their contacts identified during the last 14 years of outbreak investigations in Bangladesh, the country that has reported the largest number of cases. The study showed that, in particular, adult cases with respiratory symptoms transmitted the virus to more individuals than other cases, and therefore might be targeted for interventions when the isolation of all suspected Nipah cases is not possible. Moreover, contacts exposed to body fluids, including respiratory secretions, were more likely to get infected than others- consistent with an important role of respiratory secretions in person-to-person transmission of Nipah virus. The study further showed that spouses of cases and contacts with long exposure duration (often the caregivers) were more likely to get infected and should therefore be the focus of protective measures. "Epidemic preparedness and the ability to stop transmission efficiently during an outbreak can only be achieved through a detailed understanding of the drivers of Nipah transmission. The detailed outbreak investigations carried out over the last decade by our colleagues from the icddr,b and IEDCR in Bangladesh have made it possible to answer key questions about the transmission of the virus between humans," says Simon Cauchemez, co-senior author of the study and head of the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases Unit at the Institut Pasteur. The risk of transmission of Nipah virus depends on the characteristics of the case, like the age or the type of symptoms. Birgit Nikolay, first author of the study, says, "The results of this study help identify patients that should be targeted for interventions such as isolation measures if resources are insufficient to cover all suspected Nipah cases. This may help better control the spread of the virus during large outbreaks. " Despite these important insights, gaps remain in the understanding of Nipah virus person-to-person transmission. Future research should focus on investigating how the virus propagates in the human body and refine criteria to identify likely Nipah spreaders. Further research is also planned to better understand when and where transmission is occurring in bats to help predict spillovers into human populations. Explore further Developing a vaccine against Nipah virus Credit: CC0 Public Domain New research, published in the research journal Obesity, has found that people on lower incomes may be more likely to have obesity due to psychological distress that gives rise to emotional eating to cope. Research by the University of Liverpool and Edith Cowan University (ECU) explored whether the relationship between lower socioeconomic status (SES) and obesity is explained by psychological distress and subsequent emotional eating as a coping strategy. 150 participants from North West England from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds completed questionnaires measuring psychological distress, emotional eating and resilience. They reported their income and education level as an indicator of socioeconomic status and their height and weight in order to calculate body mass index (BMI). The study, which was led by Dr. Charlotte Hardman from the University of Liverpool, found lower SES was associated with higher psychological distress, and higher distress was associated with higher emotional eating, which in turn predicted higher BMI. More than access to high calorie foods The study showed that psychological distress alone did not facilitate a relationship between lower SES and BMI. Dr. Hardman, said: "Our findings suggest that experiencing psychological distress associated with living in lower socio-economic circumstances is associated with emotional eating to cope which in turn is associated with obesity. "The reason for socioeconomic disparities in obesity levels is often attributed to the greater availability of lowcost, caloriedense foods in more deprived areas relative to more affluent neighbourhoods. However, there is limited evidence for an association between local food environments and obesity, indicating psychological and emotional factors may also play a role. "This finding suggests that it is not distress per se, but people's coping strategies for dealing with distress that may be critical in explaining the link between socioeconomic disadvantage and body weight," Emotional eating and higher socioeconomic status The study also revealed an unexpected finding. Higher SES was also associated with emotional eating however, this pathway was not in response to significant psychological distress. Dr. Joanne Dickson, ECU, said: "It is, therefore, possible that participants with higher SES may be eating in response to other emotions not directly related to coping with distress, for example, boredom. "Almost two in three Australian adults were recorded as being overweight or having obesity in 2014-15, and in England 61 per cent of adults were recorded as being overweight or having obesity in 2016. The high prevalence of obesity in many countries worldwide is a major concern, and the development of effective intervention and preventive approaches is at the forefront of national health agendas. "This study indicates an important role for psychological and emotional factors in eating behaviour and body weight regulation, particularly for those of lower SES. Further, it is less clear what factors explain the emotional eating for those of higher SES." Explore further Lower socioeconomic status is linked to obesity through distress and emotional eating More information: Jade Spinosa et al. From Socioeconomic Disadvantage to Obesity: The Mediating Role of Psychological Distress and Emotional Eating, Obesity (2019). Journal information: Obesity Jade Spinosa et al. From Socioeconomic Disadvantage to Obesity: The Mediating Role of Psychological Distress and Emotional Eating,(2019). DOI: 10.1002/oby.22402 (HealthDay)For patients with symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE), the frequency of recent ischemic stroke is higher in those with patent foramen ovale (PFO), according to a study published online May 7 in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Emmanuelle Le Moigne, M.D., Ph.D., from Brest University Hospital in France, and colleagues conducted a prospective study at four French hospital centers involving 361 consecutive patients with symptomatic acute PE. Within seven days after enrollment, patients underwent systematic contrast transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The researchers found that contrast TTE was conclusive in 324 patients and showed PFO in 13 percent. Fifty-one percent of patients had associated deep venous thrombosis, 91 percent had cardiovascular risk factors, and 10 percent presented with arrhythmia. In 315 patients, cerebral MRI was conclusive. The frequency of recent ischemic stroke was higher in the PFO versus the non-PFO group (21.4 percent of 41 patients versus 5.5 percent of 273; difference in proportions, 15.9 percentage points). "This finding supports the hypothesis that paradoxical embolism is an important mechanism of ischemic stroke in patients with concomitant PFO and PE," the authors write. "Nevertheless, whether patients with PE should be screened for PFO in daily practice remains to be determined." Several authors disclosed financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry. Explore further Greater benefit for pioglitazone in high-risk patients post stroke Copyright 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Zhenghan Qi and colleagues used a functional MRI instrument, like this one in UD's Center for Biomedical and Brain Imaging, to scan the brains of people who were learning a new language. Credit: Evan Krape For most native English-speakers, learning the Mandarin Chinese language from scratch is no easy task. Learning it in a class that essentially compresses a one-semester college course into a single month of intensive instructionand agreeing to have your brain scanned before and aftermight seem even more daunting. But the 24 Americans who did just that have enabled University of Delaware cognitive neuroscientist Zhenghan Qi and her colleagues to make new discoveries about how adults learn a foreign language. The study, published in May in the journal NeuroImage, focused on the roles of the brain's left and right hemispheres in language acquisition. The findings could lead to instructional methods that potentially improve students' success in learning a new language. "The left hemisphere is known as the language-learning part of the brain, but we found that it was the right hemisphere that determined the eventual success" in learning Mandarin, said Qi, assistant professor of linguistics and cognitive science. "This was new," she said. "For decades, everyone has focused on the left hemisphere, and the right hemisphere has been largely overlooked." The left hemisphere is undoubtedly important in language learning, Qi said, noting that clinical research on individuals with speech disorders has indicated that the left side of the brain is in many ways the hub of language processing. But, she said, before any individualsinfants learning their native language or adults learning a second languagebegin processing such aspects of the new language as vocabulary and grammar, they must first learn to identify its basic sounds or phonological elements. It's during that process of distinguishing "acoustic details" of sounds where the right side of the brain is key, according to the new findings. Researchers began by exposing the 24 participants in the study to pairs of sounds that were similar but began with different consonants, such as "bah" and "nah," and having them describe the tones, Qi said. "We asked: Were the tones of those two sounds similar or different?" she said. "We used the brain activation patterns during this task to predict who would be the most successful learners" of the new language. The study continued by teaching the participants in a setting designed to replicate a college language class, although the usual semester was condensed into four weeks of instruction. Students attended class for three and a half hours a day, five days a week, completed homework assignments and took tests. "Our research is the first to look at attainment and long-term retention of real-world language learned in a classroom setting, which is how most people learn a new language," Qi said. By scanning each participant's brain with functional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) at the beginning and end of the project, the scientists were able to see which part of the brain was most engaged while processing basic sound elements in Mandarin. To their surprise, they found thatalthough, as expected, the left hemisphere showed a substantial increase of activation later in the learning processthe right hemisphere in the most successful learners was most active in the early, sound-recognition stage. "It turns out that the right hemisphere is very important in processing foreign speech sounds at the beginning of learning," Qi said. She added that the right hemisphere's role then seems to diminish in those successful learners as they continue learning the language. Additional research will investigate whether the findings apply to those learning other languages, not just Mandarin. The eventual goal is to explore whether someone can practice sound recognition early in the process of learning a new language to potentially improve their success. "We found that the more active the right hemisphere is, the more sensitive the listener is to acoustic differences in sound," Qi said. "Everyone has different levels of activation, but even if you don't have that sensitivity to begin with, you can still learn successfully if your brain is plastic enough." Researchers can't say for certain how to apply these findings to real-life learning, but when it comes down to it, "Adults are trainable," Qi said. "They can train themselves to become more sensitive to foreign speech sounds." Explore further Passive exposure alone can enhance the learning of foreign speech sounds The United Nations is stepping up its response to the deadly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, now in its 10th month, and needs additional resources, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Wednesday. More than 1,000 people have died from the virusthe second deadliest outbreak on record after the epidemic that killed 11,300 people in West Africa in 2014-2016. Guterres said he was "concerned by the number of new Ebola cases" and praised health workers who have vaccinated over 100,000 people and saved hundreds of lives. "Despite these efforts, the outbreak is now in its 10th month and has claimed more than 1,000 lives," he said in a statement. The United Nations is carrying out "important shifts in its response", he said, adding that "at this critical juncture, additional resources are needed." Guterres did not provide details, but called on countries and partner organizations to help UN agencies secure the needed resources. The United Nationsand in particular its health agency, the World Health Organizationcame under fire for its slow response to the outbreak in West Africa and it has vowed to learn lessons from those past mistakes. This is the 10th outbreak of Ebola in 40 years in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It began last August in the city of Beni in North Kivu province before spreading to the neighboring Ituri region. Guterres said this outbreak was contained to parts of the two provinces. Efforts to roll back the contagious hemorrhagic fever have been hampered by rebel attacks on health facilities and clinics. There has also been resistance within communities to preventative measures, care facilities and safe burials. Guterres said "the full involvement and engagement of local people remains the key to successfully controlling the outbreak." Explore further Congo ebola outbreak death toll surpasses 1,000 2019 AFP (HealthDay)Profoundly obese people are prone to an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation, but new research suggests that weight-loss surgery can improve the odds that a procedure to restore a normal heart rhythm will work. When atrial fibrillation, or a-fib, cannot be controlled by medications, a procedure called ablation can help. It targets the nerves in the heart where atrial fibrillation occurs. By electrically burning these areas, the heartbeat may return to normal. "Bariatric [weight-loss] surgery before ablation was associated with a threefold reduction in atrial fibrillation recurrence rates," said researcher Dr. Eoin Donnellan, a fellow in cardiology at the Cleveland Clinic. Both obesity and a-fib are at epidemic proportions in the United States, and both can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, the researchers said. As many as one in five cases of a-fib are related to obesity, and obesity has been identified as a risk factor for the heart condition, the researchers noted. Some patients who have weight-loss surgery may see their a-fib stop on its own or can have it controlled with medication, Donnellan said. But for many, ablation may be the best way to cure it. Although ablation has become a common procedure to treat a-fib, obese patients are more likely to have their abnormal heartbeat return after the procedure, he said. "While previously, morbidly obese patients with atrial fibrillation that can't be controlled with drugs were considered ineligible for ablation, bariatric surgery offers them an option to get rid of the atrial fibrillation," Donnellan explained. For this study, Donnellan and his colleagues collected data on nearly 240 obese patients undergoing ablation for atrial fibrillation. Among these patients, 51 had weight-loss surgery before ablation. The researchers then looked for recurrence rates of a-fib in the three years following the procedure. The investigators found that among patients who didn't have weight-loss surgery, almost 61% had a recurrence of their a-fib, compared to just under 20% of the patients who had weight-loss surgery before ablation. In addition, only 12% of those who had weight-loss surgery needed another ablation, compared with 41% of those who hadn't had the surgery. Losing weight has been associated with making atrial fibrillation easier to control, said Dr. Vivek Reddy. He is director of cardiac electrophysiology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, in New York City. Obesity directly affects heart tissue, making it more susceptible to a-fib, Reddy said. But to prove whether weight-loss surgery really makes ablation more effective, a larger study that randomly assigns obese patients to have or not have surgery before ablation is needed, he explained. This study, which was observational only, suggests that the surgery has a meaningful effect, he said. In any case, losing weight makes a-fib easier to treat. "Lose weight however you can," Reddy said. "If you're morbidly obese and undergo bariatric surgery, there are benefits throughout the body, including atrial fibrillation reduction." The findings were scheduled for presentation Friday at the Heart Rhythm Society annual meeting, in San Francisco. Research presented at meetings should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal. More information: For more about a-fib, visit the For more about a-fib, visit the American Heart Association Copyright 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. @alextdaugherty The FBI will meet with Florida Democrats and Republicans in the House of Representatives on May 16th after they asked for a briefing on the Russian governments efforts to interfere in Florida during the 2016 presidential election, a congressional source told the Miami Herald. Politico Florida first reported the meeting, which Reps. Stephanie Murphy and Michael Waltz requested on May 2nd. The FBI is also meeting with Sen. Rick Scott and Gov. Ron DeSantis after the Mueller Report said an FBI investigation found that "at least one Florida county" was infiltrated by Russian spear phishing attempts during the 2016 campaign. It's unclear which county was hacked and how much information the hack elicited. Sen. Marco Rubio told the New York Times that an intelligence operation uncovered the breach some time ago. But he said national security officials chose to protect intelligence methods by issuing a broad warning to Floridas 67 elections offices instead of informing the state or the local office that had been hacked. Everybody has been told what it is they need to do to protect themselves from the intrusion, Rubio said. I dont believe the specific victims of the intrusion have been notified. The confirmation by Rubio, a Republican member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, elevated concerns about the security of elections in a state of 13 million voters. It also shed a new light on why there has been so much confusion around whether Florida was, in fact, hacked during the 2016 campaign. @alextdaugherty South Florida Democrats are among the most knowledgable lawmakers on the ongoing crisis in Venezuela, and frequently work with Republicans on the issue. After all, they represent some of the largest Venezuelan and South American communities in the United States. That doesn't matter to national Republicans. The National Republican Congressional Committee, a group that seeks to elect Republicans to the House of Representatives, launched a Facebook ad campaign this week targeting Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell for not calling on Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar to step down from the foreign affairs committee after she referred to U.S. support for Juan Guaido as a U.S.-backed coup attempt. "Ilhan Omar blamed the U.S. for the Venezuela crisis and openly supports murderous socialist dictator Nicolas Maduro," the ad says. "But Debbie Mucarsel-Powell has been SILENT. Tell Debbie it's time to remove Omar from the Foreign Relations Committee." Omar is a lightning rod for controversy during her first months in office, making comments about Jewish people that evoked anti-Semitic stereotypes in addition to her critical comments on the administration's decision to recognize Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate leader. Republicans have called on her to step down from the Foreign Affairs Committee. Mucarsel-Powell, along with South Florida Reps. Donna Shalala and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, were the first three members of Congress to sponsor legislation in response to the crisis in Venezuela and they do not share views of some of their colleagues on the left. Their bills passed the House of Representatives and await consideration in the Senate. "We are targeting key swing voters who don't share in the socialist Democrats' embrace of a brutal dictator," NRCC spokesperson Camille Gallo said in an email. The ads will run for seven days and she said the total spending of the ad by is in the "thousands," according to Gallo. Mucarsel-Powell has an announced Republican challenger in Irina Vilarino, the owner of Las Vegas Cuban restaurants, but she remains the favorite to win reelection in a Democratic-leaning district after raising over $450,000 in the first quarter of 2019. She won one of the most expensive congressional races in the country in 2018 on a healthcare-focused message and her district is rated as "lean Democratic" by the Cook Political Report. The NRCC has also attacked South Florida Democrats on whether or not they support impeaching Donald Trump, though none of them back impeachment. A Community Newsblog written by Community Members Middletown's a big place, with a lot going on. We need your help to keep your neighbors informed. Come write or just give us a tip on your news, sports, arts, politics or events at - middletowneye@gmail.com Help us to make the Middletown Eye the third eye people open every morning! A new study slated for this spring will use aerial photography to get a better idea of where the Clark Fork and Bitterroot river channels are moving. The $32,000 study comes one year after flooding pushed the Clark Fork out of its banks near the Orchard Homes and Tower Street areas, carving new channels that may continue to carry river water into the future. Its an important and timely project, said Travis Ross with the Missoula Water Quality Protection District. The results will be presented publicly and hopefully they can be used to better inform planning in the future. Access Geographic, an Arizona-based geospatial mapping firm, will fly over Missoula County to take aerial photographs of the two rivers. The company's Rob Moore said they work about 15,000 feet in the air, using GPS to follow grid patterns so the still camera can create 3-D images. "Basically, it's like mowing the lawn," Moore said. "We do overlapping lines in one direction, collect everything in stereo so we can have multiple perspectives of the terrain. That helps us create the 3-D orthophotography." Moore added that his pilots are in constant contact with the flight tower in order to ensure everyone's safety. Ross said hes not sure when the flights will take place, since the window of opportunity is limited by water levels, weather and leaf densities. It could be done next week, or it could be done in June, Ross said. The conditions have to be right to fly. There cant be any cloud cover. The wind speed is important, as are the weather considerations and the flooding. If the rivers start flooding again we dont have an accurate picture of the active main channel. So you have to hit the sweet spot. Moore said Missoula is particularly challenging, with its tendency for cloud-free morning skies and afternoon storms. "We take hundreds, sometimes thousands, of images over a period of time and need a seamless element of continuity," Moore said. "We need every photo to be consistent so when they overlap to create the map they're consistent." This next week could be prime weather for taking aerial photographs, according to the forecast by Bob Nester with the National Weather Service. He expects only a few showers on Tuesday and Wednesday, followed by clear skies and temperatures into the 70s and 80s. He noted that the National Weather Services hydrologic gauge on the Clark Fork River above Missoula shows flows will begin trending upward on Saturday, but remain below flood stage about 6.7 feet through Tuesday. Were building a ridge of high pressure later this week, and might even see 80 degrees in Missoula this weekend, Nester said. Overnight temperatures will be above freezing where we still have snow, which will help to accelerate the melt, at least at mid-slopes this weekend. Then we get a change, with a moist southwest flow pattern that could bring daily showers, maybe even thunderstorms, for the middle of next week. Flooding isn't anticipated, he said. That should be good news for Orchard Homes residents whose properties flooded last year, when the Clark Fork River flows reached 7.5 feet and started flowing through their yards. The impacts at that level prompted officials to lower the minor flood stage to 7.5 feet this year. Funding for the mapping project includes $15,000 from the Missoula Conservation District, which will use the mapping during permitting processes for those who are within the channel migration zone. Ross said he hopes to get another $5,000 from the Department of Justices Natural Resource Damage Program. The Missoula Water Quality District will add about $20,000 more to the project. Ross said while they think the work only will cost $32,000, theyre hoping to put $40,000 into the pot in case they have unexpected costs. Were building in a buffer so we can accommodate any changes that are unforeseen. Like right now, if we have to bump around the aerial photography until the fall, our costs would go up, Ross said. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 MISSOULA Larry Kent Pearson, 75, of Missoula, passed away peacefully Thursday, January, 17, 2019, at his residence. He was born December 13, 1943, in Missoula, Montana, son of Vic Pearson and Dorothy (Mead) Hamby. Larry moved with his parents and brother, John, to Laurel, Montana, where he attended school and made many friends. In 1960, he served in the U.S. Navy and became a 3rd Class Signalman. When Larry finished his tour of duty, he returned to Missoula for a visit to his grandparents where he met his wife of 49 years, Sandie (Nimocks) Pearson. Larry worked at the Anaconda Copper Mining Company saw mill pulling green chain until it closed in 1972. He began working at Louisiana Pacific where he earned his boilermaker license. Later, he worked for and retired from Roseburg Forest Products in 2009. Larrys greatest passions were huntin, fishin and WWE wrestlin. There wasnt a person he wouldnt stop to help, or a friend he couldnt make. He loved to laugh and tell jokes for hours about all his huntin and fishin adventures. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and wife, and is survived by many loving members of his family, including his daughter Shelly (Glenn) Gaertner, grandson Brock (Drew) Gaertner, great-granddaughter, Coco Pearl Geartner, special brother and best friend, Frank Towsley, brother John (Sharon) Pearson, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, brother- and sister-in laws. There will be a celebration of life and love with a military honor guard tribute on Friday, May 10, at 2 p.m. at the Western Montana Veterans Cemetery followed by a gathering of friends and family at The Loft, 119 West Main in Missoula, where we will talk and laugh about Larrys life, legacy, and huntin and fishin adventures. Guests at Missoula's Poverello Center had a rude awakening Wednesday morning after a backed-up drain in the kitchen seeped sewage into the basement ceiling and men's dormitory. Staffer Haley Hatfield said when she arrived at 7 a.m. for her regular shift, they were evacuating the homeless shelter on Broadway, which is temporarily closed. They expected to reopen Wednesday evening to provide sleeping quarters for about 160 people, but won't be able to serve up to 500 meals they typically offer for at least a few days. The safety of our clients is a top priority for the Poverello Center, Amy Allison Thompson, the executive director of the Poverello Center, said in a press release. Once the issue was recognized, our staff worked quickly to clear the affected areas and began to assess damage. Jesse Jaeger, director of development and advocacy at the center, said a "plug" in their plumbing caused the sewage to back up. The sleeping arrangements will be tight, with the largest basement dorm closed until further notice. Second-floor sleeping areas for women, veterans and people with medical conditions will remain open. The plumbing problem has been fixed, so the bathrooms can be used. The Poverello Center is working with a professional remediation company to clean up this plumbing issue, added Allison Thompson. I am confident that we will quickly be able to return to being a safe and clean space to providing food and shelter to Missoulians experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Wednesday afternoon, dozens of homeless people mingled outside of the shelter, reading books, talking on cellphones or just staring at the ground. One pregnant woman shouted that they had nowhere to go, and wondered aloud why no hotel rooms were being offered. Inside, a conga line of staff wearing latex or vinyl gloves passed milk cartons full of cheese, lettuce, flour, sugar and every other edible item from the kitchen to a dumpster. Occasionally, a man carrying a large green garbage bag dripping liquids ran past the line to toss the goods into the dumpster. Poverello staff estimated they tossed out 2,800 pounds of food. Plastic sheets covered the kitchen doors to prevent additional contamination, and also covered the entrances to the lower floor dorm, which is the largest at the center. "We're throwing out every piece of food that's in here out of an abundance of caution," Jaeger said. "We work very hard and follow very strict food guidelines Everything was stored properly, but when the drain backed up we decided to throw out everything to make sure it's squeaky clean. Right now, it's all hands on deck to take care of this mess." The kitchen will be closed until Friday, and possibly longer. The Poverello staff are working with community partners, including the Missoula Food Bank and the First United Methodist Church, to make a plan for how to continue to serve meals to clients during the closure. "They're our stalwart church and will be opening their commercial kitchen to us," Jaeger said. "We're inviting community members and volunteers to come there and make sack lunches tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday. Our goal is to make 2,500 sack lunches. That should get us through Monday." Volunteers can sign up for shifts at https://signup.com/go/YkWkfUM. Food donations can be delivered to First United Methodist Church between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Jaeger added that they can't accept any food donations at the Poverello Center due to a lack of storage and the possibility of contamination. Jaeger said they need significant amounts of bread, sliced meat, cheese, granola bars, apples, oranges, peanut butter and jelly, single-serve chips, baggies, plastic wrap, grocery bags or paper lunch bags, and bottled water anything typically found in sack lunches at the church. While insurance should cover most of the costs of replacing food, mattresses and bedding, Jaeger said they also could use monetary donations to cover items like deductibles and the overtime they'll need to pay for calling in every staff member. Hatfield said the clients are banding together to make sure everyone is safe, and Old Chicago, Bridge and Pizza Hut donated 37 pizzas for lunch on Wednesday. "It was amazing we were able to feed them," Hatfield said. "I don't know what the kitchen will look like for the next couple of days. And there definitely are some people who don't know where they'll stay tonight." You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 More than $633,780 in federal grants and loans for affordable housing projects received the initial nod Wednesday from the Missoula Administration and Finance Committee. The six projects are expected to help develop 200 new units for low-income families, provide emergency shelter for 100 homeless families, and provide critical home improvements for 12 households that will result in improved safety, sustainability and health conditions. The funds also will aid 1,300 individuals going through Missoulas coordinated entry system, which helps vulnerable families find housing quickly; help 30 individuals receive one-on-one support to retain stable long-term housing; and provide financial, rental and housing education and counseling for about 1,000 individuals. There are a lot of people in our community who sometimes are concerned we are not doing enough as a municipal government to help those that are homeless and vulnerable, said Heather Harp, the city councilor who chairs the committee. We now have a Housing and Community Development department that we didnt have a decade ago thats huge. I know some people think we should be doing more but what this illustrates is how the nonprofits and private developers are committed and engaged to help us solve homelessness. The projects include: A $350,000 loan to the Missoula Housing Authority to support construction of the Villagio, a 200-unit development in the Northside neighborhood for low- to moderate-income renters. This years funding is in addition to last years $750,000 loan, for what is expected to be the largest single affordable housing effort in Montanas history. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $36.5 million, with the rest of the funding including a tax-exempt bond, tax increment financing funds, housing tax credits and a state grant. A $200,000 grant to the Human Resource Council for an owner-occupied rehabilitation program. It will provide loans for up to 12 low-income homeowners to do improvements that include health and safety needs; structural integrity enhancement; energy conservation modifications; and accessibility work. A $25,000 grant to the YWCA to support Adas Place Emergency Housing, which focuses on providing short-term shelter for one- and two-parent families. The money also helps provide resources for those families to find and secure long-term permanent housing. A $25,000 grant to the Poverello Center to support its intake and assessment of new clients into the shelter and Missoulas coordinated entry system. Another $15,000 grant to the Poverello Center for continued funding of a full-time housing retention specialist, who focuses on connecting homeless individuals with resources and services. And a $18,780 grant to Homeword Inc., to provide education and counseling programs that focus on eviction prevention, renter and homebuyer education, and financial support for service partners in the community The recommendations, which go before the entire City Council for a public hearing on May 13, were developed after a community needs assessment survey and application workshops that helped weed out projects that didnt fit city residents priorities, noted Colin Woodrow, with Missoulas Office of Housing and Community Development. This is the second year in a row we collaborated with the county to operate and run the community needs assessment and public meetings, Woodrow added. He noted that the projects fall in line with highly anticipated recommendations from his office, which are tentatively scheduled to be presented to the city council from 1 to 3 p.m. on May 15 in the Missoula City Council chambers at 140 W. Pine St. The public hearing on the six recommended grants and loans begins at 7 p.m. Monday in the council chambers. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Denise Dowling, longtime broadcast journalist, journalism professor and two-time interim dean of the University of Montana School of Journalism, has won a national award from the Society of Professional Journalists for her radio documentary Alex, Not Amy: Growing Up Transgender in the Rural West. The documentary follows the story of 10-year-old Alex ONeill, who knew he was a boy when he was a toddler, as he changes his gender legally and socially. Listeners get to know Alex and his family as they navigate issues like which swim team Alex competes on and which bathroom he uses while hes at school. "As a full-time professor, it's difficult to find time to work on professional projects, especially ones that take a commitment of time and energy over several years," Dowling said. "To have that work acknowledged by the Society of Professional Journalists as the best in the country is the highest honor a journalist can receive. If this means Alex's story gains more attention and airs in more places, that will be most gratifying to me." The story looks at the policy, history, mental health concerns and trends around transgender youth. But, its about much more, too its a story about family, identity, community and belonging. Dowlings piece, which originally aired on Montana Public Radio, also was named a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award winner by the Radio Television Digital News Association, and is now under consideration for a National Murrow Award as well. In addition, the documentary was named a finalist for an E.B. Craney Award from the Montana Broadcasters Association and the Greater Montana Foundation in the Radio Non-Commercial Program of the Year category. The Society of Professional Journalists Sigma Delta Chi Awards recognize the best in professional journalism in categories covering print, radio, television, newsletters, art/graphics, online and research. This years winners will be honored during a June ceremony in Washington, D.C. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Billings Police Department is offering a reward for help with information leading to the recovery of a Billings woman's body. CrimeStoppers is offering a $1,000 for help in finding Laura Johnson's remains. Johnson, 49, was reported missing by family members in the fall of 2018. She was last seen alive in Billings on Sept. 13, 2018. On April 17, Gregory Scott Green, 53, was arrested in Henderson, Nevada, on charges of deliberate homicide in connection with Johnson. Green and Johnson were in a relationship and lived together when she disappeared. According to charging documents there is footage of Green carrying an object "in the size and shape of a body" from his house that he loaded into his white truck, along with several other items and a shovel. He left that night and returned about three hours later. Using video footage collected from local businesses and eyewitnesses, police determined he drove from Billings to a rural area south of Laurel. He was also known to be in the location of Pompey's Pillar on Sept. 15. Blood was also found in Green's truck that was tested and found to be "112 quadrillion times" likely to be Johnson's blood. In April, police asked for the public to be on the lookout for potential burial sites and ground disturbances. Police are now asking for renewed help from the public and landowners in the areas south of Laurel and in the Shepherd, Worden and Huntley areas. Anyone with information is asked to call the Investigations Division at 406-657-8473. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 The accused killer of a Red Lodge man intends to withdraw his guilty plea. Thomas Joseph Schifferns, 33, has been granted an extension to file a motion to withdraw his guilty plea in the case of James McGregor's shooting death. McGregor, a 63-year-old Red Lodge resident, was found dead near Highway 212 south of Red Lodge on Feb. 19, 2018. He had been shot to death and a police investigation determined Schifferns to be his killer. Schifferns pleaded guilty in late March. Carbon County Attorney Alex Nixon had said he would drop charges of theft, robbery and evidence tampering. Both he and Schifferns' attorney had intended to recommend life in prison at a May 6 sentencing. Charging documents described how McGregor had stayed with Schifferns and Schifferns' common-law spouse. McGregor had disappeared before his death, and law enforcement found that a safe where he had stored cash had been emptied and left open, according to court documents. Those documents also describe a confession Schifferns allegedly made to an ex-girlfriend who he had asked for help in escaping to Texas or Mexico after shooting a person in the head "because he was homeless and disrespectful." The extension to file the withdrawal motion was granted by Carbon County District Court Judge Matthew J. Wald. Wald has given Schifferns' attorney Gregory E. Paskell until 5 p.m. on May 17 to file the motion to withdraw plea with a legal brief in support. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The woman whose former partner is accused of killing two people in 2013 testified Tuesday that she clutched her baby in terror for fear they'd be next as gunfire rang out in a Frenchtown basement six years ago. She would largely keep that story to herself for years, until the surging paranoia that she and her child might be next led her to a police station on the other side of Montana. With what is expected to be a two-week double homicide trial underway in Missoula County District Court, the explanations of what happened to Frenchtown residents Thomas Korjack and Robert Orozco in 2013 now weigh on 12 jurors. Since 2016, law enforcement has been piecing together evidence that Missoula County Attorney Kirsten Pabst said corroborates a womans statement that Caressa Hardy fatally shot Korjack and Orozco in the basement of the home where they all lived outside of Frenchtown. That evidence, Pabst said in opening arguments Tuesday, includes a bullet lodged in the wall of the room where the woman said it happened, and where the interior walls and carpet had been replaced in recent years. Prosecutors have also determined blood spatter on a television from that room belonged to Korjack. But, in Pabsts words, the prosecution will have to overcome the fact that the bone fragments found in a burn pit on Hardys property were so badly torched that forensic experts could not extract DNA evidence from them. The fragments were found to be from two different people. Hardys defense attorney, Britt Cotter, said in his opening arguments the greater pile of evidence points to a different explanation of the two mens disappearance entirely: that they fled the area to live off the grid and to avoid paying taxes, something for which Korjack had previously been convicted. Orozco, meanwhile, owes several thousand dollars in child support, Cotter said, creating a motive for him to join Korjack on the lam. Korjack had earned approximately $800,000 in the two years before his disappearance, Cotter said, and withdrew approximately $300,000 in the months before a woman said he was killed. The first witness to take the stand Tuesday was Karen Jill Hardy, the defendants former partner. Caressa Hardy, also known as Glenn Dibley, is accused of trying to have her killed. Karen Hardy, who moved away from Frenchtown years ago, was the first to report in 2016 that Korjack and Orozco had been killed. On Tuesday, she was clearly afraid as she stepped up to the witness stand; she initially refused to even look at Caressa Hardy in the courtroom in order to identify him for the prosecutors. Im afraid of him, she said, shuddering. Why is that? Deputy County Attorney Brian Lowney asked. Because he killed people, she said. Karen Hardy eventually pointed out Hardy as "the man in the white shirt." Hardy, identified by his attorneys as CJ, was transitioning to a woman when he was arrested. Attorneys and witnesses have used the pronouns "he" and "him" when referring to Hardy. Karen Hardy first met Hardy when he picked her up from the side of the road in California, where her ex-husband left her after they got into an argument. Their relationship blossomed from there; they had three children together, moved to Wyoming, and became a part of what Karen Hardy described as a non-traditional family, involving Korjack and Orozco. Korjack became a father figure to Karen Hardy and a grandfather to her children. With Orozco, however, she said it was "love at first sight." Hardy had grown aggressive in his relationship with her; when she got together with Orozco, he joined them and the children in their home. Around this time, Karen said Hardy began "pushing more toward the role of a female, rather than male." He eventually took a new name: Caressa Karen Jill Hardy. The group eventually moved to a home outside Frenchtown on Pond Road, purchased by Korjack but the title went under Caressa Hardy's name. Karen Hardy said Korjack did so for the family. Korjack also provided employment for the family as home inspectors. One day they came home from an inspection to find Hardy in the bedroom with another man, she said. This upset Korjack a great deal; while he didn't seem to mind Hardy dressing as a woman, "he was against him being homosexual, anything homosexual," she said. "It made (Korjack) very angry, it changed the way he treated him." The dissolution of the family ties, specifically Hardy's connection to the group, seemed to start there. Korjack eventually began withholding funds, like money to drive to town or go shopping, from Hardy while still giving cash to the others, she said. She testified that Hardy became increasingly paranoid he was going to get cut off from the family. "He was afraid that (Korjack) was either going to leave or kick him out of the house or something," she said Tuesday. "He wouldn't have a place to go. But (Korjack) would never do that, that was never his intention." On March 27, 2013, she said Hardy came downstairs where she, Korjack and Orozco were looking through a phone book and talking about getting a new property. She said Hardy and Korjack got into an argument. Then, she said, Hardy pulled a firearm from his bathrobe and shot Korjack. She couldn't recall on Tuesday how many times she heard the gun fire, but remembered hearing glass breaking, that it was smoky in the room when the gunfire ended, and the room smelled weird. She was holding her youngest boy at the time, who was less than a year old. "I begged him, 'Please don't kill me or kill the children,' and it was like he snapped out of something," she said. "His demeanor just changed, and he said he would never kill the children." She said she saw the bodies of Korjack and Orozco as Hardy, still armed, ushered her upstairs. The bodies were still there, she said, when Hardy allowed her to retrieve some things from the room days later. In the following months, Hardy controlled everything from her phone, to where she would sleep in the home and whom she would meet, she said. She recalled Hardy making noises in the basement as he used power tools to crack open Korjack's safe. She eventually met a woman, through Hardy, with whom he allowed her to go live in Circle, Montana. Several years later she walked into the local police department in a different eastern Montana town to tell authorities what she remembered of the shooting. She was prompted by the growing fear that she was being followed around that town by, she believed, Hardy. "I feel like he completely uprooted everything. I just feel shattered. Everything was so good, we were happy," she said, finally addressing Hardy in the courtroom. "I don't understand why you did it, I just don't." Hardy faces two counts of deliberate homicide and two counts of solicitation of murder for allegedly trying to find someone to kill Karen Hardy. His defense attorneys will cross examine Karen Hardy from the stand on Wednesday. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. I was shocked and infuriated to learn that an organization like the National Rifle Association, which contributed hundreds of thousands to Donald Trump's campaign, has tax-exempt status. They sell guns and have Russian oligarchs as members. Also, corporations like Amazon and their CEO, the richest man on earth, pay zero taxes. And because the richest people in America pay little or no taxes, the poor working class has to work and struggle to make a living and pay taxes. This administration is cutting out the very last shred of national health care and now insurance companies won't have to pay for pre-existing conditions. The so-called richest country in the world will have no health care for the majority of Americans while the wealthy senators are covered forever. People need to rise up and fight this corruption in our country. Also, check it out: Russian reconnaissance planes are allowed to fly over all our military bases, even Area 51, because of an old agreement when we were getting along with Russia. But this president allows it, even with the Russian hacking. Kay Gervais, Corvallis You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 2 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 " " The bill from the Miami tapas restaurant El Carajo suggests three different tipping amounts, as is common in the U.S. Jeffrey Greenberg/UIG via Getty Images Tipping makes zero sense. Is it a reward for good service? Studies show that tips don't go up or down significantly based on the quality of service. Does tipping attract and retain better wait staff? Not really. Is it a bribe so the waiter won't spit in your soup the next time you come? Probably depends on the waiter. In most countries, a service charge is included in the bill. However, in America, instead of an up-front service charge, diners hand over 15 percent (or more) of the price of the meal to the server. It's not required, but it is customary. But this seemingly generous practice has some nasty hidden costs. Advertisement For starters, the existence of tipping allows restaurants to pay servers a federal minimum wage of $2.13 an hour. So, waiters in most states basically live and die by tips. The result is that tipped workers are twice as likely to live in poverty and depend on food stamps as other workers. Then there's the opposite problem. In stronger restaurant markets like big cities, the existence of tipping means that waiters in busy restaurants end up making a lot more money than the cooks and dishwashers, who get paid a fixed hourly wage while working just as hard. So, when does it make sense to abandon tipping in favor of raising restaurant prices so that all staff is paid fairly? Or would customers balk at that? Sara Clifton is a mathematics professor at the University of Illinois who specializes in modeling complex social behaviors. In a recent paper, she created mathematical models of two competing restaurants, one with conventional tipping and one without. The paper was published in the Feb. 8, 2018 issue of Chaos, a journal from the American Institute of Physics. The key variable in Clifton's models is the average tipping rate. Tipping rates have been creeping up over the past few decades, from 10 percent to 15 percent and now close to 20 percent in major U.S. restaurant markets. Clifton's models are designed to be as simple as possible, with every player in the system motivated purely by monetary gain. When cooks are paid better, they're more likely to stay, meaning that food quality goes up. When waiters are paid less, they're more likely to leave, affecting service quality. But eventually, the waiters would return if diners flooded the restaurant because of food quality which would presumably mean more profit and higher wages for all. The Tipping Tipping Point What Clifton found was that when the average tipping rate crosses a certain threshold call it the "tipping tipping point" restaurants will make more money by abandoning tipping. Unfortunately, Clifton doesn't have enough real-world data to calculate exactly what that magic tipping rate is. In 2015, dozens of high-end restaurants across the United States, led by New York chef and restaurateur Danny Meyer, began experimenting with no-tipping policies. These trendsetting restaurants either increased menu prices by an average of 12 to 15 percent or included gratuity in the final bill. That way, the restaurants could distribute the earnings more fairly and pay everyone a fixed hourly wage. But this plan was not popular with the public. Michael Lynn, a professor of consumer behavior at the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration who researches tipping, reported that online customer reviews of no-tipping restaurants went south when the no-tipping policies were instituted, and were worst when tips were replaced with service charges. "People hate service charges," says Lynn. "And if I increase my menu prices, they're going to think I'm more expensive even if the combined bill is no different." In other no-tipping restaurants, it was the waiters who revolted. At Bar Agricole in San Francisco, servers were used to making $25 to $40 an hour with tips, while the kitchen staff was only making $13 to $20 an hour. When owner Thad Vogler decided to ditch tipping, his cooks and dishwashers were psyched, but the serving staff kept leaving for more-traditional restaurants, he told NPR in 2016. So Vogler, like lots of other pioneering restaurant owners, switched back to the normal tipping scheme. Clifton feels that these restauranteurs were simply ahead of their time. "When restaurant owners get rid of tipping too early, as we've been seeing with some really nice restaurants, they sometimes have to reinstate it because it's not profitable," says Clifton. "That would conform with what customers want." Her model indicates that casual restaurants should actually make the move before fancy ones because the point at which the tipping rate becomes profitable is lower than in the high-end places. However, Joe's Crab Shack, a decidedly not-high-end chain, tested the waters in late 2015 when 18 of its restaurants abandoned tipping. Although customers were essentially paying the same exact total for a meal as they were when tipping was allowed, 60 percent said they didn't like the no-tipping policy, according to restaurant research. Customers said they didn't trust management to share the money and they felt it took away incentive for good service. Joe's dropped the no-tipping policy less than a year after it started, after losing 8 to 10 percent of customers during its trial. So, Americans haven't reached the tipping tipping point yet. In the meantime, restaurants will likely keep experimenting with various tipping policies until they find one that keeps customers, waiters and kitchen staff all equally happy. Now That's Interesting The Denver Post reported in March 2018 that Colorado restaurants were having a very tough time finding kitchen staff, as most of the likely recruits were going for the more lucrative work of preparing marijuana for sale. Kelly Lee and Quinton Queer won seats on the Butte School District No. 1 Board of Trustees Tuesday night, according to unofficial returns. They were among three people running for two seats, the other being Christy Zimpel. Lee, a firefighter with the Butte-Silver Bow Fire Department, got 2,712 votes to win one seat. Queer, a training center coordinator for Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 41, got 2,605 votes to win the other. Zimpel, a clinical manager and registered nurse with Highlands Hospice, finished with 2,469 votes. The tallies must be certified before they are official but results typically hold up, Dennis Clague, business administrator for Butte Schools, said Wednesday morning. The two trustees who held the seats, J.P. Gallagher and Kelly Howery, did not seek re-election. School board elections are held every spring as each of the eight trustees' three-year terms are staggered. The May ballot was also supposed to include candidates for the two-year high school trustee seat up for re-election, but no one filed paperwork to run for the position currently held by Jay LeProwse. Clague said the district will soon put a notice in the newspaper to inform people the high school seat is open. Anyone interested and qualified will be asked to submit a letter of interest, Clague said, and the Board of Trustees will interview and select one. Butte Schools did not have any maintenance or operation levies on the ballot Tuesday. In November, voters overwhelmingly approved a $35 bond to improve security in district elementary schools and to improve East Middle Schools 61-year-old interior. Anaconda School District No. 10 did not hold a school board election Tuesday because the two incumbent trustees up for re-election, Jaime Valentini and Blake Hempstead, were the only two who filed to run. Love 1 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The Montana Board of Pardons and Parole denied parole Tuesday for a woman convicted of fatally shooting her boyfriend in Butte in 2009, citing the severity of the crime as a key reason. The board also noted that Verna Elaine Bell had previously committed a similar violent crime and ruled that she wont be eligible for parole again until 2025, board member Darrell Bell told The Montana Standard. The previous victim, Verna Bells husband, lived. Prosecutor Samm Cox said he and family members of Richard G. Hoffmann III, who was shot and killed by Verna Bell in 2009, appeared before the board via video conference Tuesday and argued against parole. Richard Hoffmann was a respected member of the community and a beloved son and brother, Cox said in a text to the Standard. He was the second male involved in a relationship with the defendant (who) she shot. Both times she claimed abuse by the victim, which was disproven in Hoffmanns case. Cox did not prosecute the previous case. Verna Bell admitted to fatally shooting Hoffmann, her 41-year-old boyfriend at the time, from behind with a .25-caliber handgun in their East 2nd Street home in July 2009. He was transported to St. James Healthcare, where he died in the emergency room. District Judge Kurt Krueger later sentenced Bell to 40 years in the Montana Womens Prison. She was 46 at the time. According to prosecutors, Bell told police she shot Hoffmann because she was "tired of the abuse." However, when an officer asked her about the abuse that day, she reportedly said "it was only verbal abuse tonight." Bell reportedly told police she kept the gun next to her head when she slept. Bell said she and Hoffmann both ran down the stairs and "it just happened," according to a charging affidavit. It was Bell's second conviction involving a shooting. She pleaded guilty to felony criminal endangerment for shooting her then-husband, Mark Lemler, on May 3, 1992, in Butte. Lemler survived, and Bell received a five-year suspended sentence in that shooting. Cox said that during Tuesdays hearing, Bell told the parole board that she had taken several training courses and had learned to make better choices. She did not have a detailed parole plan nor any assurances in our opinion that she would be safe to be returned to the community, Cox said. Her history dictates that simple training is not enough. The parole board suggested Tuesday that Bell complete various prison programs, including one on victim impact. Love 0 Funny 7 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. I read with interest the session wrap-up on May 1 from Speaker Greg Hertz. Conspicuously absent were the major successes for Montana that must be noted and celebrated by all conservatives, regardless of party politics. Conservative solutions for Medicaid expansion and reform, major school choice policy and a fiscal framework for infrastructure will deliver huge dividends for our constituents. When Medicaid was originally expanded in 2015, the sunset date was included to coincide with a potential change of power in Washington, D.C. While that power shift did occur and Republicans took control of both chambers of the U.S. Congress and the presidency, Congress failed to deliver on its promise to address the Affordable Care Act. Now Democrats have retaken control of the U.S. House and the president has stated publicly there will be no movement on health care until after the 2020 elections. Faced with the reality that no help was coming from the federal government, the 2019 Legislature was left to reform the only option available to the nearly 100,000 Montanans searching for affordable health care, mental health services and treatment for chronic conditions. The existing Medicaid expansion program was reformed to ensure effective work requirements and reasonable premiums payments were included. An asset test was enacted so that individuals with significant financial worth would not qualify for the program and Montana residency was made a firm requirement. Montanans are still justifiably divided on the issue of Medicaid but without a major change at the federal level there is no real path to lower healthcare costs and ensure access to medical care. The Medicaid Reform and Integrity Act will allow our rural hospitals to remain viable while slowing the growth of healthcare premiums in Montana. Until the U.S. Congress displays the political will to address the Affordable Care Act, the reform of Medicaid expansion is the right solution for Montana. School choice has been a topic of discussion in the Montana Legislature since my first session in 2013, with precious little to show for the effort. Career and technical education received lip service while worker shortages continued to grow in industries requiring skilled tradesmen. Meanwhile, the glut of college educated candidates for every entry level professional opening would indicate that our existing approach to post-secondary education is not balanced with the needs of our expanding economy. Several bills were passed this session to address our workforce imbalance. Expanded options in the proficiency learning program were enacted along with a revision to community college funding, providing middle school, high school and post-secondary students with greater opportunity to pursue work related training that aligns with their chosen technical career path. Some of the associated costs of these expanded programs can now be recovered by the student or the students family. Infrastructure funding has also been a major point of contention in every legislative session in which I served. Some legislators argued over which infrastructure projects to fund while others argued over the best monetary strategy to use to pay for the projects. These two arguments became entwined and major infrastructure needs remained unfunded for many years. Several forward-thinking legislators remedied the situation this session by separating the two arguments and creating a lasting infrastructure framework, based on sound fiscal policy, for funding major projects. No longer will political arguments control the basic fiscal question of what the state can afford to fund in infrastructure needs. So, congratulations to the legislators who set party politics aside to accomplish significant and lasting policy solutions for the citizens of our great state! Rep. Nancy Ballance, R-Hamilton, represents House District 87 in the Montana Legislature. She is chair of the House Appropriations Committee. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 The state of Montana budgets about $9.8 million a year to operate and maintain its 55 state parks, which have an estimated $23 million in deferred maintenance needs. The 2019 Legislature laid a foundation for starting to chip away at that maintenance backlog and to bolster the meager operating funds that result in minimal or no staffing a parks that host more the 2.5 million visits per year. Help for Montana State Parks is in Senate Bill 24, sponsored by Sen. Terry Gauthier, R-Helena, which went to Gov. Steve Bullock's desk with bipartisan support. Bullock signed SB24; it's a great deal for Montanans. The bill raises the optional $6 parks fee on annual vehicle registrations to $9. The fee is still optional, so those who don't want to pay, simply subtract the parks fee from what they owe. Fortunately, more than 80 percent of vehicle owners do pay the fee, which is the single largest source of support for our state parks. Montana State Parks receive no general fund money. Instead, about a third of parks revenue comes from the vehicle registration fees, 22 percent from park fees, such as camping; 19 percent from the state lodging use tax, 11 percent boat and fuel decals and 10 percent coal tax. The $3 boost in the option vehicle fee is projected to generate about $2 million per year after it takes effect on Jan. 1, 2020. That money will accumulate in a special park revenue account, but it cannot be spent until the 2021 Legislature approves it as part of the next biennial budget. Where will that extra three bucks go? About $170,000 a year will be directed to state fishing access sites, doubling support now provided by the vehicle fee. About $940,000 a year will go to a new grant program for trails, which was the top parks priority according to Montanans surveyed last year by the Governor's Parks in Focus Commission. The grant program will be available to help fund trail projects of tribal and local government, school districts and recreational organizations. It will launch in 2022. About $892,000 a year will go to the state park system. So as we cheer the passage of this step toward taking proper care of state parks, we call on Montanans who use their parks to keep advocating for them for Makoshika, Hell Creek, Smith River, Tongue River Reservoir, Lake Elmo, Cooney Reservoir, Chief Plenty Coups historical park, Pictograph Caves and all the others you enjoy. The 2019 Legislature and Bullock have found a way to improve funding, but park lovers must stay involved to tell Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks what they want. The 2021 Legislature must hear from constituents that our parks are valuable and deserve adequate funding for well planned improvements and efficient operation. We thank Bullock for signing SB24 because there are 55 compelling reasons why it should be law and zero rational arguments against it. Nevertheless, 10 Yellowstone County Republicans voted no. Republicans and Democrats who supported Gauthier's bill deserve credit. Among the 65 representatives voting yes for parks, were these folks whose districts include parts of Yellowstone County: Jade Bahr, Geraldine Custer, Frank Fleming, Jessica Karjala, Kathy Kelker, Emma Kerr Carpenter, Bill Mercer, Sharon Stewart-Peregoy and Daniel Zolnikov. Among the 33 senators voting for parks were Duane Ankney, Jen Gross, Margie MacDonald, Mary McNally and Tom Richmond. Thanks, legislators, for investing in parks, trails and public fishing access The Billings Gazette Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 adamkaz/iStock(WASHINGTON) -- President Donald Trump's reelection team is ramping up its game plan to win Florida again in 2020, and the campaign is off to a radically different start than last time. In 2016, with 100 days until Election Day, the Trump campaign's ground game in Florida was virtually nonexistent: Zero offices were up and running in the key swing state and little to no strategy was in place to maximize voter turnout. Nevertheless, thanks in part to major last-minute shifts in approach, the president flipped the state red, for the first time since George W. Bush won it in 2004, with just 1.2 percent more votes than Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. This time, the reelection team is getting a head start to ensure Florida, the president's second home, isn't such a nail biter. The campaign has key staff already in place nearly a year and half before voters head to the polls in 2020 and thousands of volunteers ready to hit the pavement for the president. Regional Director Alex Garcia, who was deputy state director and director of Hispanic initiatives in 2016 cycle, has led the 2020 efforts down in Florida, with a number of other paid staffers set to join the ranks by the end of May. But the campaign would perhaps argue a more crucial aspect to its strategy will be the thousands of eager volunteers across the Sunshine state who are currently being activated. The campaign has been holding voter registration workshops with staffers on the ground conducting the training ahead of Trump's Wednesday rally in Florida, a campaign official told ABC News. "This is a big part of the process in determining who our 'Neighborhood Team' leaders will be in Florida," the official said. These volunteer leaders will play a major role all across the country, especially in battleground states like Florida, working to help promote campaign messaging and recruit other volunteers in their communities. "We have literally thousands of individuals who've gone through our program, who are still working and engaged in Florida, in their communities, and ready to really explode the program for this presidential cycle," Republican National Committee Deputy Communications Director Rick Gorka told ABC News. "The real strength of President Trump is that he brings in individuals that had never been involved in politics, that are going to be trained through the Trump Victory initiative and are going to be continually active in their communities for years to come." The RNC is not only helping to train and designate volunteers, but this time around the party is fully backing the Trump campaign and working hand-in-hand to create a more streamlined political juggernaut. Trump Victory is set to cut down the number of points of contact between the campaign and the RNC in hopes of a more streamlined collaboration. The lock-and-step relationship has triggered some criticism for the RNC, in particular coming from a Republican challenger, former Gov. Bill Weld, who called the committee's endorsement of Trump for president "an attempt to silence the voices of millions of Republicans across America who have every right to be heard." "It's kind of a no-brainer that the incoming president has the support of the Republican Party," Gorka told ABC News in response. "We didn't see those kinds of questions when [Bush] was running in 2004." But the blurred lines between the Trump campaign and the RNC seems to have been met with optimism. "It's a brilliant strategy," a senior Trump campaign staffer told ABC News. "A major source of friction in the last campaign was the space between the RNC and the campaign. It's like, who's in charge? Who gets to call the shots? If this works, then presidential cycles will be like this always." The Trump campaign also will of course look to utilize key surrogates in Florida throughout the election, including rising Republican star and fierce Trump defender Rep. Matt Gaetz, who told ABC News he learned everything he knows about fighting for the president by watching his mentor Rep. Jim Jordan. "I'm the Silk to his Diamond. Nobody does it better than Jim," Gaetz said. Gaetz, who made headlines recently for having his mic cut off at a hearing on the Mueller report, said he's in contact with the campaign and the president regularly and will do what he can to ensure Trump wins Florida again in 2020. "I'll go wherever they send me. I expect to go out all over the country to try to rally conservative voters," Gaetz said. During his regular conversations with the president, Gaetz says he often raises the issue of climate change, which the congressman believes could be a big factor in securing the Sunshine State in 2020. "I hope to be a very positive influence with the president about the importance of the environment, and the importance of it politically with younger voters," he said. And how do those environmental chats go with the president? "It goes far better when we're talking about solar than when we're talking about wind," Gaetz chuckled. "The president's very bullish on solar. But he has a an encyclopedic-level detailed critique of wind that he seems to not be coming off of." For Democrats, Florida poses an interesting test in 2020. On the surface, the state emerged relatively immune to the blue wave of the 2018 midterms -- Gov. Ron DeSantis defeated progressive Democratic candidate Andrew Gillum, and Sen. Rick Scott picked off longtime Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson. However, the overall House delegation in Florida inched closer to a Democratic majority in 2018, moving from a 16-11 Republican edge to a slim 14-13 Republican majority. And if Democrats want to be more successful in 2020, at least in the presidential race, former Sen. Nelson said there's one candidate who can do the job. "Joe Biden will beat Trump in Florida," Nelson told ABC News, noting that he hasn't officially endorsed the former vice president "yet." "Florida is going to be a competitive state. And Democratic nominees like Joe Biden will beat Trump in Florida, even though Florida is a 50-50 state," the former Florida senator added. Nelson, who lost his reelection bid to Scott after the close race went to a recount, added that "more than anything, [Democrats] want a candidate that can beat Trump." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. The Montana State Parks Foundation is publishing a weekly showcase of Montana State Parks' 55 properties. The Smith River is mostly known as a wonderful 59-mile-long river full of natural beauty with great boating and fishing opportunities. Permits to float the river are highly sought after and distributed through a lottery system similar to hunting licenses for certain big game species in Montana. But Smith River State Park is so much more than just a float, and you don't need a permit to enjoy some of the great amenities the park has to offer. If you weren't lucky enough to win a permit during the annual lottery system, you can still enjoy the Smith River by visiting Camp Baker west of White Sulphur Springs, or Eden Bridge 59 miles downriver and just a short drive south of Great Falls. At Camp Baker you'll find a campground with primitive campsites, latrine facilities, and a busy boat ramp for the lucky folks who won launch permits. After the floating parties have launched for the day Camp Baker becomes quiet for a few hours and visitors will enjoy great access for fishing, birdwatching, and even swimming in the summer months. At the other end of the park is Eden Bridge, the normal takeout for Smith River float trips. Eden Bridge is a minimally developed day-use site with latrine facilities, a boat ramp, and access to the river. While there are few amenities at Eden Bridge, it does make for a nice day trip destination from Great Falls where visitors have a chance to spend time on the banks of one of Montana's most iconic waterways. Looking for activities at Smith River State Park? You can go: boating, with a permit only; fishing; swimming; wildlife viewing; and camping. Many find Smith River State Park a place of peace because a permit is required to float the Smith River. This permit requirement means visitors can expect to have a quality, multi-day float with relative solitude and excellent trout fishing opportunities. Of course you don't need a permit to access the campground and enjoy all the natural splendor of the area. The Montana State Parks Foundation helps fund work at parks, for more information log on to www.montanastateparksfoundation.org. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 July 20, 1924-May 3, 2019 TIPTON Rachel Lois Norton, 94, of Tipton went to her heavenly home on Friday, May 3, 2019. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2019, at Calvary Church. Private burial will take place in Whitmer Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Calvary Church. Visitation will be from 5 until 8 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2019, at the church. Online condolences: www.wittichfuneralhome.com. Rachel was born on July 20, 1924, on a farm near Sepo, Illinois. She was the daughter of Caleb and Mae (Bohannon) Larson. When Rachel was a baby the family moved to Illinois City, Illinois, where her father was the pastor of the Methodist Church. She graduated from Grandview High School in 1942. After teaching for two years at Otter Creek School, she came to Wilton in 1944 to continue her teaching career. It was there that she met and married her husband of 68 years, Willie Norton. They were married on March 17, 1946. She and Willie raised four children on their farm, Clover Hill, north of Wilton. Rachel taught 5th and 6th grades in the Wilton Schools until her retirement in 1986, having taught for a total of 31 years. Some of the lettering on the death certificate for Mary Dois grandmother has faded away. But the space that lists where she died in 1943 is bold and legible: Rohwer Japanese American Relocation Center. The document brings Doi to tears. She recalls the quiet grief her mother carried with her from losing her own mother while they like tens of thousands of other people of Japanese descent were detained in camps on American soil after Japans attack on Pearl Harbor plunged the U.S. into World War II. More than 75 years later, Doi and her daughter Lisa traveled for the first time to the place in rural Arkansas where their ancestors were detained, retracing a chapter of history that defined the lives of many Japanese-Americans but that many chose not to talk about, the memories too painful to be relived. I can approach (that history) through my head. I can approach it through documents. But I cant approach it emotionally, said Doi, who is 66 and lives in Evanston, Ill. I know Ive been guarded. For me, deciding to go on the pilgrimage, I wanted to see if being there would trigger feelings. In the opening of the trailer for Wine CountryAmy Poehlers highly anticipated, directorial debut that hits Netflix on FridayMaya Rudolph falls backwards off a piano during a drunken serenade. Its just one of several instances of debauchery in the movie, which was filmed at locations throughout Napa Valley, and it understandably has some locals and members of the wine community holding their breath. Remember Sideways? All it took was one line of dialogue to single-handedly disrupt the Merlot industry. Fifteen years later, the poor grape is just now starting to make a comeback. So, could Wine Country also have a severe, lasting and negative impact on Napa Valley? Will it attract the kind of large, rowdy groups, who care more about selfies than learning the craft of wine, that tasting rooms hate most? George Blanckensee, director of hospitality at Chateau Montelena, recalls the mania that ensued after Bottle Shock hit screens on 2008. They had such a tremendous boost in visitorship that they had to create a new parking lot to accommodate more than 150 extra cars. Many of the people visiting were not necessarily wine lovers or wine enthusiasts, but they were movie enthusiasts, said Blanckensee. Some visitors just wanted to take pictures and were even surprised to find that Montelena was a working winerynot just a movie setbut overall, the extra tourism is a positive. Ultimately, its a problem that everyone would love to have, Blanckensee said. Theres still a pretty good majority of people that come because of the movie. They may not be wine people, but we need to convert them to wine people. Its our duty to tell them and tell them in a way that they can be ambassadors for Chateau Montelena, Napa Valley and the wines of California. Rich Frank, proprietor of Frank Family Vineyards and former vice president of Disney, knows the ins and outs of the movie industry better than most. When he was approached about having his wines featured in Wine Country, he declined when they wouldnt show him the script. You could be a hero product and you could be the goat product and you dont know unless youre able to read the script, said Frank. The key to me is to see how youre portrayed. Thats the first thing if youre a business. Its all about brand, its our name and we work very hard to create an image with consumers every day of the year. You dont want to have that taken apart for a particular reason. That being said, Frank doesnt see Wine Country being a branding issue for Napa Valley as Sideways and Bottle Shock were much more wine-focused than this one. Napa and the wine industry are the backstory not the front story, he said. Its a bunch of people getting together in Napa and having a good time. We see those trips every day here. [Viewers] may actually think its a place they want to be. Napa should look beautiful in this. Susan Sueiro, president of Artesa and a big fan of the cast of women, said the experience of working with the Wine Country cast and crew was a positive one, through and through. The people we were working with were so respectful of our brand. They asked us, Whats your look and feel? They designed a set that matched our furniture; made fake uniforms for their staff with our actual logo embroidered, she said. They really went out of their way to make this a positive and we trusted them that they were trying to do the right thing. She even went as far to call the opportunity kismet, noting that the filming occurred at a tough time, just after the holidays, after the fires. It was really perfect timing for them to come to us and bring some business, but also, they were really on a mission to share with the public that Napa is beautiful and be a counterpoint to the public perception that Napa Valley entirely burned down. Wine Country features all-star female cast of Poehler and fellow Saturday Night Live alums Rachel Dratch, Maya Rudolph, Ana Gasteyer, Tina Fey and Paula Pell. The script was based off Dratchs 50th birthday celebration in Sonoma, but producers chose to shoot the film entirely in Napa Valley at locations like Artesa Winery, Baldacci Family Vineyards, Quintessa and in Calistoga. Sueiro was able to attend an advanced screening of the film and confirms that, This isnt some Girls Gone Wild party trip to wine country, which I think some people are fearing it is. Sure, there are some jokes about wine speak and snobby wine professionals, but its simply satire, she said. Its not really about wine country. Its about these women. Its about female friendships, a womans perspective on a midlife crisis, said Sueiro, adding that she herself identified with the films characters. How often do you get to see that? Their priority is to be together and connect on a personal level and wine country is just a backdrop of that. They arent focused on intellectualizing the wine, theyre not disparaging the wine experience. Its just not their focus. Chris Canning, mayor of Calistoga, also had great things to say about the few days that production invaded the town. They went shopping here, eating here, drinking here. Were proud and excited, he said. Some business owners expressed concern early on, but this is going to be seen by millions and millions of people and the long-term benefits surely outweigh the short term inconveniences we may have had. Canning said the city didnt charge the production, which then generously made donations to the Boys and Girls Club and the citys firefighters association. He was left with just one, minor complaint. The worst part of the whole filming process is that Im not in the movie, Canning joked. Five families will be featured at St. Helena Historical Societys Museum For a Day, which will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at the Native Sons Hall, 1313 Spring St. The families are MacDonald, Lincoln, McCormick, Money and Bedolla. Members of the families will share their stories, photos and various ephemera. The St. Helena Historical Society will also have a few wonderful old vehicles outside for added interest. These events are held every few years (at whatever venue can be found) because the St. Helena Historical Society is currently without a home, but its members still want the Historical Societys treasures to be available to the community. This is one way to do that. Each family will have tables and easels for display, and most will have several members attending. Susan M. Veresh, a SHHS board member, has interviewed the families and compiled each of the interviews that will be printed in the next few weeks. Lincoln family Harry Latham Lincoln was born in New York on Jan. 21, 1830 and was one of 13 children comprising the family of Nathan and Phebe (Hayes) Lincoln. He belonged to a family whose distant kindred was President Abraham Lincoln. Harry and his wife Ann Fennell had seven children. When the Mississippi Valley was undergoing its initial development, the Lincoln family, with by then, four children in tow, became pioneers of Madison County in Illinois where Harry operated a flouring mill for three years. Leaving Illinois for California in 1859, they traveled to New York and boarded a ship with 1,200 passengers. The ship crossed through the isthmus of Panama, proceeded up the West Coast, and after 24 days, landed in Benicia in Solano County. Harrys brother was already living in Suisun Valley and helped Harry locate and buy a quarter section claim with a small cabin, but shortly, Harry was to find the property was already owned by Nathan Coombs, who sent his foreman to remove the settlers. Finding another property in Vacaville, he closed a deal to break and train wild horses and cultivate the land. He bought a grain header machine and was soon making a large profit. After four years, and three more children, he moved the family to Capay Valley in Yolo County and purchased 200 acres of land which he then farmed for six years. Next, he moved the family to San Jose so the children could go to city schools. They arrived in Napa Valley in 1877, settling in Calistoga. Harrys sons, George Fennel and Edward Fletcher Lincoln, both farmed in Monticello for several years before Edward came to Oakville in 1898 and purchased the ranch just north of the Yountville Hills. The Lincoln family ranch at that time was 100-plus acres and extended from the Napa River to Highway 29 and from Yountville road to the present Cardinale Winery. Farming included cattle, hogs, barley, hay, apples, prunes, grapes and other crops. Edward Fletcher Lincoln, born Oct. 2, 1858 and his wife Mary Haeckl, a native of Melbourne, Australia, had six children: Lloyd, Alva, Clement, George, Edna and Eva. In the early 20s, in addition to farming the home ranch, two brothers, George Audrey and Alva Louis started Lincoln Brothers Blacksmith and Tractor in Oakville at the present-day parking lot of the Oakville Grocery. The company was purchased in the 50s by a son-in-law and later moved to Rutherford and renamed Wilcox Tractor. Edwards son Alva had two children, William and Alita. William (Bill) was raised in Oakville, and he and his friends got treats through the back door from the owner of Oakville Grocery. They used to ride their bikes up Oakville Grade, which was a dirt road. They loved watching the planes land on an airstrip in Oakville. When he was 16, Bill and a friend built their own plane! He obtained his pilot license and attended Cal Poly for his formal aeronautical mechanical training. On one eventful day, he and his buddies decided to see if a chicken could fly (Bill had made the original bet), so they took off, and at about 3,000 feet dropped the poor bird over the side. The chicken flew in graceful circles until landing safely in the grass, and was later returned to the coop. Bills daughter Dee (McFarland), says Dad laughed about that every time he told the story! Bill was an aeronautical engineer and a flight engineer for Pan American World Airways on Clipper Ships at Treasure Island in the late 1930s. Barbara, soon to be his wife, worked for Pan Am owner Juan Trippe in scheduling and administration. Hired by Pan Am four days after graduating from college, Bill became head plane mechanic. As World War II broke out and the Navy took over Pan Am, he became an officer in the Navy and was sent to Guam and Midway Islands. He and his crew maintained the aircraft on the bases. On one occasion, during an attack, they retreated to the trenches they had dug for protection from Japanese bombers and one brave crew member ran back to the house for beer for everyone and made it back to the trench just as the attack began. The Lincoln Ranch property was divided among the six children in 1938 and several sold their parcels immediately. William Wayne Lincoln purchased the home parcel from his uncle, Edward Lloyd Lincoln in 1964. While still flying, he farmed it as permanent pasture for cattle until the early 70s when it was planted in vines during that planting boom. Bill and Barbara had 10 children, including twins and triplets: Ann, Bill, Beth, Dee, Mary, Barby (died at age 21 in an auto accident), John, Jim, David, and Lynn. Nine of the 10 graduated from St. Helena High School. The eldest daughter, Ann, had graduated and was attending college when they moved to Oakville. The children were not allowed to ride their bikes to Yountville, because Mom thought it was too rough a town! However, Gene, the owner of Tonascias would hand out cookies when Mom would stop by for a few groceries with all the kids. After graduating from high school, all the children left the area to see the world, but all have since returned! Siblings occupations include vineyard management, agricultural engineering, nursing, teaching, a chef, machine operator, computer programming and entrepreneurs. There are now 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Please join them at the Museum for a Day! 1. Yes. If a department head is doing a bad job and the city manager wont act, its needed. 2. Yes. Its a crucial safeguard against poor hiring decisions and conflicts of interest. 3. No. It would only muddle the leadership structure and damage employee morale. 4. No. It would make it harder to recruit and retain qualified city leaders at all levels. 5. Unsure. Council oversight may be good, but perhaps not to such a significant extent. Vote View Results If you care about senior housing in St. Helena vote yes on Measure F. Below is a short of review of the most egregious items taken from NO on F ads. 1). FALSE: "If Measure F passes, it could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to implement and administer. It costs too much. "It makes every taxpayer liable for all the costs." FACT: The City Council will absorb the cost until 50 percent of mobile home park spaces are stabilized. Estimated cost at 50 percent is $2,100 per year. Once 50 percent of the park is stabilized, the cost is passed to the park owner who is allowed to pass 50 percent through to park residents. These costs are conservative estimates based on Calistoga, where there are multiple mobile home parks under rent stabilization and the annual cost per unit is $20. 2). FALSE: Lets fix our sidewalks first. FACT: The sidewalk program is funded and on schedule! Obviously, whoever suggested this is not from St. Helena. Sidewalk replacement is in the citys capital improvement plan, fully funded and as of this moment, the contract engineering firm is finishing the survey work necessary to finalize the plans and submit them to Caltrans. 3). FALSE: RSO only applies to 10 mobile homes. FACT: Every time a new resident moves in or a lease expires, the park owner must present the tenant with the option to sign a 12-month renewable stabilized lease or a long-term lease. The park owners attorney reported an average of 12 home sales per year. There may be 10 leases expiring next month, perhaps 10 more the following month. July 1 is apparently a date when several leases expire. No one knows for sure because the park owner has consistently refused to provide the City with any information. RSO is a program that is designed to phase in over time. 4). FALSE: Does not protect senior housing. FACT: RSO protects senior housing, particularly those on fixed incomes, keeping base rents at levels in effect as of October 2018 and setting caps on annual increases. Without RSO, there are no limits on the park owners ability to raise base rent to whatever the market will bear. Without RSO, there are no limits on annual rent increases. 5). FALSE: RSO will "Jeopardize St. Helenas financial future. FACT: Have you paid attention to the citys financial reporting lately? General Fund reserves in the latest long-range financial forecast ranged from 28 percent to 98 percent under four scenarios. St. Helenas General Fund is healthy in terms of total revenues over expenses and short-term resources based on the latest California Municipal Financial Health Diagnostic. Does anyone seriously believe that $2,100 per year jeopardizes our multi-million dollar operating and capital budgets? 6). "The election is costing the taxpayers $30,000. TRUTH: No on F forced this election and passed the costs on St. Helena taxpayers. The outside PAC spent $15,000 to gather signatures that put this measure on the ballot. No on F brought a lawsuit against the city claiming the citys ballot language is misleading, which was quickly dismissed by the judge, forcing the city to spend more taxpayer funds on bogus legal defense. The estimated cost for special election hand counts is $25,000. The outside committee directly behind the NO on F ballot measure is: "Save our St. Helena - No on F, a project of Western Manufactured Housing Communities Association. They are an outside group and it's not their St. Helena. The NO on F intentionally misleads voters through Facebook ads, robocalls, false campaign material, and paid campaign workers from outside St. Helena, using the outside PAC funds (more than $50,000) at its disposal. Its a bit confusing but these PACs represent the interests of other mobile home park owners, not St. Helena residents. So far, according to their own financial reporting, no St. Helena resident has donated to No on F. A few mobile home park owners donated $1,000 which triggered the need to file a 497. There are 271 registered voters at Vineyard Valley. Only 82 residents or 30 percent of Vineyard Valley voters signed the referendum petition. Susan Kenward St. Helena Its been 6 months since I was sworn in as mayor of our wonderful town and working together with the City Council, City Manager Mark Prestwich and staff, we continue to make substantial progress on many long-running issues. An important aspect Ive learned over my last few years on Council is that city government is not too difficult for any of us in the community to understand, it simply uses different language and structure than the private sector, and the more we are willing to learn that language and structure the more effective we can all be in shaping and safeguarding the future of our town. As reported in the St. Helena Star, we recently received a very healthy financial diagnostic. This financial diagnostic was created by the League of California Cities and is an objective barometer of the citys financial health. We must still be wise in spending but City finances are strong with diverse revenue streams bringing in the highest per capita sales tax in Napa or Sonoma County. Some other highlights of our progress in the last few months include the General Plan coming into the home stretch this May, recent Council votes to finally begin the York Creek Dam removal this summer, and long-needed upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Were also moving forward on our downtown streetscape/sidewalk plan Cultivate St. Helena which will replace aging sidewalks and help with parking, wayfinding and traffic flow issues. Please visit the website cultivatesthelena.com and give input. Your opinion matters! As these issues get traction moving into summer well be able to focus on our comprehensive Housing Strategy to address affordable housing needs, and our evaluation of forward steps on City Hall, the library and Adams Street. Environmental, climate and open space issues factor into all these efforts with the Council also committed to youth programming, multi-cultural engagement, supporting our schools and a spirit of inclusiveness. This is also the first full year of Measure T county sales tax money that will give St. Helena an additional $1.5 million a year for the next 25 years to repave aging streets and sidewalks. This multiple increase in our paving budget will help tremendously in both fixing our roads and maintaining them to a high standard, as well as enhancing local traffic calming measures. Water/wastewater issues remain high priority and we are currently working with two engineering firms to analyze our water systems and rate policies. We had an excellent rain year but as we never know what next year holds its imperative to stay focused on optimizing our water administration. Upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant will also help us move toward recycled/tertiary water distribution which will strengthen our drought resiliency. Our Fire Department continues their incredible dedication to protecting our community. The addition of full time firefighters gives us even more efficiency in top level response. We as citizens and residents also have a role in fire and emergency preparedness. Join us at a community meeting Tuesday, May 21 at the Firehouse from 6-8 to learn more about how we can all work together to enhance our Culture of Preparedness for all emergency situations. PG&E continues to let us know that power outages will occur more frequently this summer in response to high wind events and our residents can be best prepared by keeping on hand 2-3 days supply of water and non-perishable food. The City is also making preparations for community support during these events and that information will be made widely available. Our Police Department continues their commitment to community engagement and keeping our town a safe and pleasant place to live. To learn more join Chief Foley at his Wednesday morning Cup with a Cop program at the Roasting Company. With summer coming there is also great opportunity for the community to re-connect and support each other. Bocce season and Farmers Market are underway at Crane Park, and Lyman Park has been busy hosting events such as the schools Fiesta de Mayo and the Rally4Rianda. Check the schedule for the upcoming Chamber of Commerce Concerts in the Park, as well as Mariachi events and July 4th activities. The recent St. Helena Saints Fajita Fest and FFA Rib Feed were well-attended and last weekends Sidewalk Sale brought many folks out to the downtown. The City also held a successful Spruce Up St. Helena volunteer event touching up parks and public spaces. Were looking forward to more of that as well as the upcoming downtown Neighborhood Table on Saturday, May 11 with the city partnering with the St. Helena Hospital and the Chamber of Commerce. Also the Historical Society is planning their Museum for a Day on May 18 and the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum is holding their annual Treasure Hunt on May 25. This is our community, our democracy, and all of our voices matter, so please stay engaged! With this in mind our Council continues to improve cross jurisdictional dialogue with other Napa County cities and the county, which strengthens our ability to work together towards balanced regional solutions. My philosophy is the more we each put in, the more we get back. If we move together in gratitude and balance, helping our neighbors on the way, then we can arrive at the thriving equilibrium and sustainability we seek in our community. Editors Note: Geoff Ellsworth is mayor of St. Helena and the Star requested and received a city update from him. Were planning that these updates will be published on a quarterly basis. Austin Tichenor and Reed Martin have written one whopper of a play. Hamlets Big Adventure is part satire, part musical, part knee-slapping, guffaw-inducing, completely silly romp through the glorious closet of William Shakespeares posthumous id. Hamlets Big Adventure, which opened last weekend at Napa Valley College, runs through May 19. Its clearly a mashup of all the jokes a Shakespearean actor has had in his head after years of studying the plays, made into a hilarious, hammy two-hour, hammy rendition of Hamlets supposed beginnings. Its a love letter to one of Shakespeares most challenging and complicated plays, and also a meditation on the acting profession its slings and arrows and outrageous fortunes. And, it rhymes! There is a cast of three: Peter Downey who plays Hamlet and Polonius, Jessica Romero who plays the King and Ophelia, and Chad Yarish, who plays Yorick and Lilith (Lilith being Ophelias mother, an apocryphal character not in the original play). Such a small cast necessitates frequent costume changes. Over and over, Romeros Kings beard and crown comes and goes, replaced by Ophelias blond wig; Downeys bowl-cut tresses as Hamlet are removed to reveal Polonius bald head and Yarish replaces Yoricks fools hat with a crest for Lilith that gives her a truly Elizabethan air. In this play, Hamlet is beseeched by his father the King to go out and find himself. Being a king, apparently, is a bore, what with all the committee meetings and the members of the court jockeying for power. Its not the life he wants for his son. He thinks that Hamlet should go into acting, giving the playwright a fertile basis on which to critique the profession. Downeys Hamlet is demure and callow, apprehensive about his plan to become an actor. Yorick, whose employment as the court jester allows him to speak from personal experience, says: I think that even you will agree/there is nothing worth less than a theater degree. But the king insists. So Hamlet enters an apprenticeship with Yorick. Then Lilith comes in with a pet project of hers. She has decided to take on the cause of the nunnery, which follows from Hamlets famous line in the play, when he tells Ophelia to get thee to a nunnery, a line that some say does, or does not, refer to prostitution. An aside is made by Lilith referencing this, when she says, Oh, its not that kind of a nunnery. Lilith asks the king if he will donate money to help restore the nunnery, and he hems and haws. Then, slightly apropos of nothing, he decides to knight Lilith, whereupon he wields a huge sword that ends up stabbing and killing her, allowing her to come back as a ghost to haunt her daughter Ophelia. Yarish is a stately, dignified Lilith, with only a slightly raised voice, shes regal and superior. Whereas his Yorick is tall and imposing, quick-witted and sarcastic. He is the one who always seems to know whats going on. It must have been exhausting to constantly switch from one character to the next in such a short time. Romeros Ophelia is sweet and kind. She seems innocent and cheerful except when Polonius and Lilith wont let her take swim lessons. She appears, hilariously, wearing flippers and floaties, begetting a cascade of rhymes with Hamlet that are a slap stick, droll complement to Shakespeares sonnets. In the second act, there is a sword fight between Laertes and Fortinbras, that echoes the one at the end of Hamlet where everyone dies. But Laertes just got back from a mime school in France so the whole sword fight is done in mime, with Yorick doing side effects with iron bars, a mechanism that makes a continuous clicking sound for when Laertes cracks his neck in preparation for fighting Fortinbras and a cone through which Yorick makes the sound effects for a lightsaber. With just a breath from Yorick and a slight adjustment by Laertes and Fortinbras, were now in the Star Wars universe. Laertes then chokes Fortinbras the way Darth Vader does that lieutenant who doesnt have faith in the force in the first installment of the Star Wars movies. That is the magic of theater done well: with just a slight sound effect, well executed, and entire twist on an old conceit can be cross referenced with another epic familiar to audiences hundreds of years later. And its that creativity that leads to enormous laughs. To fulfill the dead Liliths wish of saving the nunnery, they stage a variety show fundraiser that is basically a reason for the actors to do the zaniest, kitchiest, dead on arrival jokes youve ever heard. Delmer, the grave digger, is now a stand-up comedian, fitting because in Hamlet he is the comic relief. There is a segment in which dirty nuns make jokes about planning a vocation five years in advance because they believe in predestination. And also, she mentions, grabbing a guy by the Ecclesiastes. Further, show includes a cameo by Falstaff, which is an Easter egg because Falstaff is a character that is mentioned in four of Shakespeares plays. He talks about his memoir called, A Night to Remember, which has to be an allusion to something. Gertrude, Hamlets mother, by the way, is spending time with Claudius, Hamlets uncle, at the fjords. In this universe, theyve been having an affair all along, prompting Yorick to comment, sotto voce, Is this such a good idea? Before you go, listen to Tom Lehrers Im Spending Hanukkah in Santa Monica because they cover this songs jaunty melody and rhyme scheme at the end of the show. Ive been listening to the song on repeat, just to maintain the ebullient feeling I had when I exited the theater. It has a Broadway in the 1950s sensationalism to it, that is so clever in in its rhyming, and rapid fire in its delivery, that you wont be able to keep from laughing. After the show, the cast met us in the foyer of the theater. I told them that it looks like they were having a good time. They stared at me shocked, their eyes belying a wired exhaustion. Well, Yarish said, I guess that means were a success! But the subtext was that its taken a lot of work to put on a show this challenging. Somewhere, some actor on his deathbed, said, Dying is easy. Comedy is hard. If comedy is hard, pulling off this play is like getting ones PhD in astrophysics. Only funnier. John Henry Martin is a sucker for a good rhyme. If you are too, go see this show and tell him about it at jxxhxxm@gmail.com. C & H Slug Productions presents We Love Our Moms and Veterans for one performance only at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 11, at The Lincoln Theater at The Veterans Home in Yountville. This professional variety show with two emcees and 23 mature entertainers includes music, dancing, comedy, magic and poetry. The featured act is The Grant Avenue Follies, begun by a group of former Chinatown nightclub dancers 15 years ago. Since then, theyve expanded to include folks of other professions, and have helped non-profits raise $3 million to help the elderly and under-served children. The award-winning Follies have performed in San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, Seattle, Houston, and recently, Cuba. The show is the result of the efforts of Herman Soon, a Napa native whose family owned The Asia Cafe for 29 years, and his wife, New York transplant Cheryl Fiedler. After they saw the Grant Avenue Follies in Nevada City, they were taken with the idea of bringing the show to the Lincoln Theater. The emcees are Jan Yanehiro, former co-host of Evening Magazine and Doris Grover. Acts include Dennis Tom, John Nockels, Emily Soo, Ellen Yeung, Barbara Patinkin and retired Sgt. Major Richard Kishimoto, Tamaka The Magician, poet Clara Hsu, dancer Frankie Fictitious and live music by Ralph Pinkerton and Friends Sandy Bailey, Ken Ho and Tucker Spolter. Tickets $20 for adults and $10 for kids age 2-12. All Veterans Home members are admitted free and have priority general admission seating. Purchase tickets at 944-9900 or LincolnTheater.org. Property manager and new developer Jeff Zell wanted to convert a rec room into two studios in a San Jose apartment building he owns. But a project he thought would take a few months and $75,000 has turned into a two-year, nearly $200,000 odyssey of frustration, fees and false starts. City charges almost killed the project, Zell said. The city initially assessed Zell's renovation a mandatory park fee of $48,800 -- revenue designed to support public recreation spaces in San Jose. Zell balked. For that kind of money, he could buy his two tenants season tickets to the 49ers and Warriors, with money left over for a pair of annual passes to the National Parks. Zell hasn't raised a wall or driven a nail, yet. "It just never ends," he said. He's losing $100 in potential rent every day the project is delayed. "I'm super frustrated." Amid a state-wide housing shortage, developers say they feel increasingly burdened by unpredictable government service and impact fees that are almost three-times higher than the national average. They say it's an additional drag on residential development in a region already battling the highest construction costs in the world. Fees are a long-time bugaboo and budget-buster for developers. But towns and cities feel the fiscal pinch of Proposition 13, which limits property tax revenues from long-time property owners. So many municipalities raise service and impact fees to make up for those budget shortfalls to pay for parks, schools, roads and other city priorities. The charges also reimburse governments for staff time spent on projects. Fees also provide an added bonus for cities resisting growth -- high add-on costs can curb development and sink projects, especially for low- and moderate-income housing, developers say. Pro-housing bills in Sacramento this year would trim fees, and at least one includes waivers to encourage construction of more accessory dwelling units. The bills also would insist municipalities become more transparent and regularly file fee schedules with the state. Service and impact fees in California in 2015 were nearly triple the national average, according to a study by the Terner Center for Innovative Housing at UC Berkeley. The costs add between 6 and 18 percent to the median price of a new home, according to a sample of seven cities by Berkeley researchers. For example, Oakland charged $34,500 per unit for new apartments in a large development, while Fremont assessed $75,100 for each new rental, according to the study. For new construction in a 20-home subdivision, the center estimated fees of $62,100 per unit in Oakland and $156,600 in Fremont. Cities and counties maintain that the fees are needed to pay for staff time spent reviewing and inspecting projects, as well as for improvements to roads, schools and water systems for a growing population. David Garcia, policy director at the Terner Center, said the municipal charges were one of several factors driving up construction costs, along with high costs for land, materials and labor. "It's a complex issue," he said. "It's not as simple as saying, 'We should cap fees.' " Fees can fall especially hard on homeowners looking to build a backyard unit, he said. Often, cities charge the same rate for an accessory dwelling unit (or ADU) as a single family home, driving up costs for the granny flats and killing the project ambitions of many homeowners. State lawmakers have ordered a review of local charges, with a report expected from the Department of Housing and Community Development in June. Assemblyman Tim Grayson, D-Concord, authored a new bill that would require cities and counties to report fees to the state and create a database for lawmakers and developers to get a better handle on costs. Grayson said he expects the data to give state and local decision makers a clearer picture of how to address rising costs. The goal is to bring clarity and certainty for developers, he said, and "get those housing units off paper and on to land." Builders say more transparency in fees would lead to fewer surprises and a smoother, faster timeline for projects. Developers pass costs directly on to new buyers, housing experts and developers say. The inflated prices also drive up values and sale prices for surrounding homes. One East Bay builder budgeted $150,000 for inspection fees on a 36-unit development, only to see actual costs reach $500,000. Jim Ghielmetti, CEO of Signature Homes in Pleasanton, said the issues have been accumulating for years. "Fees are only part of the housing problem we have," he said. On recent projects, Signature Homes paid about $500,000 to the City of Oakley for seven homes and $264,000 to Livermore for three homes, company records show. "We have to pass them along," he said. If not, he added, "we'd all be broke." In San Jose, Mayor Sam Liccardo has pledged to add 25,000 homes and apartments to the city by 2022. But in March, the city revealed that it had issued about 3,000 permits for new units in 2018, far short of city leaders' goal to approve 5,000 annually. Liccardo said the city will be looking to reduce fees for large, dense downtown residential buildings. He expects the city to consider action in June. He also wants city fees to be more transparent, giving developers a better handle on costs before investing heavily in a project. Liccardo said in an interview the city has to seriously look at reducing fees. But any cut in fees would be too late to help Zell. He bought the 37-unit apartment complex on Richfield Drive three years ago and looked to upgrade the property. The two-story, square building, with a leafy courtyard and pool, is two miles from the Apple campus. Tech employees rent most of the one-bedroom units. San Jose's fee schedule has a base charge of about $10,000 for staff time and various review costs, a city planner said. The city initially told Zell park fees would cost $24,400 per unit, a total of $48,800 to support public spaces in the city. "Screw the city," he thought. He simmered and sat on the project for six months. He went back to city planners, and they discovered the fees should actually be about $38,000, still too rich for Zell's budget. "I'd rather put the money in the property than give it to the city," he said. The two sides reached a compromise. Zell agreed to build an outdoor dining space -- two barbecue pits, three picnic tables and some trash cans -- in the courtyard. The city dropped the fees to $19,000. Zell hopes to start construction next month. WASHINGTON _ More than two years into the Trump presidency, California has embraced its role as chief antagonist _ already suing the administration more times than Texas took President Barack Obama to court during eight years in office. California's lawsuits have targeted the administration's policies on immigration, health care and education. But nowhere has the legal battle had a greater impact than on Trump's agenda of dismantling Obama-era environmental and public health regulations. In its rush to delay, repeal and rewrite rules it considers unduly burdensome to industry, the administration has experienced significant setbacks in court. Federal judges have sided with California and environmental groups in cases concerning air pollution, pesticides and the royalties that the government receives from companies that extract oil, gas and coal from public land. California says it has filed 49 lawsuits against the administration over a variety of issues. Of those, at least 21 are challenges to policies put forward by the Environmental Protection Agency, Interior Department and other agencies responsible for setting energy and fuel efficiency standards for products such as ceiling fans and cars. By California's count, it has prevailed so far in 12 of the environmental regulatory suits it filed or joined. That includes seven that have been decided and five instances in which the Trump administration backed down before a judge could make a decision, clearing the way for regulations in areas such as worker safety and polluting diesel-engine trucks that the administration had previously contested. The state's tally also includes one case in which the outcome was mixed. A federal judge ruled that the administration had to consider damage to the environment before lifting an Obama-era moratorium on coal sales on public land. But the court did not go as far as California had wanted by halting sales entirely. The Trump administration is appealing several of those decisions. The other nine of the state's environmental cases are still pending. The administration's early losses stem from a variety of problems, including moving too quickly to change regulations, ignoring procedural rules and failing to present evidence to support its position, according to California officials and legal experts. "When you've got these environmental rules, so much of it is underpinned by the science," California Attorney General Xavier Becerra said in an interview. "And it so often is the case that the Trump administration can't produce the science." Becerra said he has noticed the administration is slowing the pace of its rollbacks amid the state and environmental groups' repeated legal successes. "Like any fighter, you get to the point where you become punch drunk from all the blows," he said. "We've had a great number of victories in our environmental lawsuits against the Trump administration, and after a while when you get punched so much and the blows land, you do slow down." Legal experts said they couldn't recall agencies under any recent president having such a low success rate in court. An analysis of litigation over the administration's regulatory rollbacks done by the Institute for Policy Integrity at New York University School of Law found that judges have ruled against it in 37 out of 39 cases. "Every administration has its ups and downs in the courts," said Sean Hecht, an expert on environmental law at UCLA's School of Law. "Still, it's safe to say, the Trump administration has done particularly badly." The Justice Department, which is tasked with defending Trump's deregulatory push in court, disputed California's characterization of the legal battle. In a statement, it noted that it has bested California twice in court. Both cases involved lawsuits filed by the federal government. One successfully challenged a state law giving the California State Lands Commission the first right of refusal when Washington decides to sell federal land. Another case involved the federal government's ability to recover damages from a wildfire that tore through a national forest. "Isolating issues involving losses, some of which are at the district court level and many of which involved cases that later choices of the administration mooted out, does not begin to tell the whole story," wrote Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Bossert Clark. A common problem judges have cited is that agencies under the Trump administration have violated the Administrative Procedure Act, which was first enacted in 1946. "They do have the sloppiness and the bad lawyering. The failure to follow simple rules," said Bethany Davis Noll, litigation director for the Institute for Policy Integrity. But Noll said agencies' repeated violations of procedural rules only partially explain the losses. As the administration moved past its initial strategy of delaying the implementation of Obama administration policies and into the next phase of attempting to overhaul them, it has run into a different obstacle: It is legally required to provide reasons for changing course. "They have this big substantive problem where the rules are justified and they aren't giving us a good reason for abandoning them," Noll said. "An agency that wants to turn its back on that has a really tough job." In late March, a federal judge in Northern California struck down the administration's repeal of a rule aimed at increasing oil and gas companies' royalty payments. Called the valuation rule, it was an Obama administration initiative aimed at changing how companies value sales of fossil fuels extracted from federal and tribal land. The "repeal of the Valuation Rule was effectuated in a wholly improper manner," wrote U.S. District Judge Saundra Brown in a decision finding that the Interior Department had failed to justify the policy change. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit in San Francisco in April threw up a new roadblock to the administration's plans to reverse an Obama-era decision to ban chlorpyrifos, a popular pesticide suspected of harming infants' brain development. The court gave the EPA 90 days to act on environmentalists' demands for a complete prohibition. On Monday, a California federal judge declared that Trump's EPA had violated the Clean Air Act by failing to enforce rules limiting methane emissions from landfills and ordered the agency to comply with its "long-overdue" duties. And there's promise of more: Becerra has threatened to sue if the president goes forward with plans to take away the state's unique authority to set its own, stricter air pollution standards for vehicles _ something the state has been empowered to do since the enactment of the Clean Air Act in 1970. Hit with defeat after defeat in the courts, the administration has responded by delaying some of its plans. Interior Department Secretary David Bernhardt told The Wall Street Journal last month that a judge's recent decision blocking offshore drilling in the Arctic had caused him to pause a controversial plan to open most of the United States' coastal waters to oil and gas exploration. The EPA, which had planned to release its final proposal to freeze Obama-era vehicle fuel economy standards in March, has postponed that announcement until later this year. And though the administration has proposed scaling back regulations under the Clean Water Act and the Clean Power Plan, it has yet to finalize any of these changes. (EDITORS: STORY CAN END HERE) Agencies have blamed some of the delays on lost work time during the partial government shutdown. But Noll said she suspects they are struggling to come up with justifications that can survive a legal challenge. Many of the cases California and other states have brought against the administration are only beginning to make their way through the courts, and environmentalists' victories could be reversed on appeal. Republicans have confirmed dozens of Trump-appointed judges to federal appeals courts who might be more supportive of the administration's positions. Becerra said that regardless of who sits on the bench, California will continue to challenge Trump's policies. "We are on them immediately," he said. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. California cities have given away billions of dollars in tax revenue over the past decade to some of the worlds richest private corporations. These bad deals are robbing residents of the resources they need to pay for police, firefighting, parks and other local services. Its time to end them. The deals in question are part of a race to the bottom prompted by a provision in our tax law that allows online retailers to direct all the sales tax they collect in California to a single jurisdiction of their choice. The online retailers have leveraged this power to extract subsidies from cities desperate for tax revenue. Those cities have agreed to give the retailers half or more of the sales tax paid through the retailer not just by their own residents but by people in every city in the state. Online retailers are reaping as much as $1 billion a year in taxpayer dollars through these kickbacks. Cities that have agreed to these schemes say they must do them to attract the jobs created in the warehouses used by online retailers. But this is foolhardy. Most of the deals come with no guarantee that jobs will follow. And even when they do, the jobs generally have low pay, few if any benefits, and poor working conditions. The deals have also prompted cities and counties to rezone land from housing to commercial, and allow the construction of massive warehouses just a few hundred feet from existing homes. Thats the last thing in the world we should be subsidizing with our tax dollars. Thats why the California Labor Federation supports my bill, Senate Bill 531, to prohibit cities from using new sales tax deals to lure warehouses or online sales offices to their jurisdiction. The League of California Cities, which fiercely defends the prerogatives of local government, has endorsed this bill and said it would be good for cities and their residents across California. A handful of cities have opposed SB 531 by arguing that their budgets rely on the sales tax revenue collected from other jurisdictions and sent their way by the online retailers. But my bill would not affect those existing agreements or the distribution of that revenue. It simply prohibits any future giveaways to private corporations in exchange for their business when the money given to the corporations is generated on purchases from outside the citys boundaries. Others have said the cities need the tax revenue the warehouses generate to compensate for the truck traffic and pollution these businesses bring. If that is true, then SB 531 is even better for the cities than current law. Under this bill, all the revenue a warehouse generates would go to the host city, rather than just the portion left over after a city rebates a share of it to the retailer. Economists from across the ideological spectrum agree that giving away the publics money to a private corporation is a terrible way to try to generate economic growth or jobs. Subsidies do not create economic activity but merely move it from one jurisdiction to another while providing a gift of public money to the corporations for doing something they would have done anyway. Our cities shouldnt be gifting money to massively profitable online retailers at the expense of our residents and our neighborhood brick and mortar stores. And our tax laws shouldnt allow a handful of cities to make these deals at the expense of every other city in the state. For every city that thinks of itself as a winner in these deals, there are hundreds of losers, including financially stressed cities that can least afford to lose the revenue their residents pay in taxes when they purchase products online. SB 531 would end this especially insidious form of corporate welfare. Sen. Steven Glazer is a Democrat who represents Senate District 7, including Orinda. He wrote this commentary for CALmatters, a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how Californias Capitol works and why it matters. A ceasefire Monday ended one of the worst rounds of fighting between Israel and Hamas since 2014. Four Israelis and more than 20 Palestinians died in two days of conflict, which followed a violent demonstration along the border fence that separates Israel and the Gaza Strip and the shooting of two Israeli soldiers. Palestinian militant groups fired almost 700 missiles into Israel, most of which landed harmlessly - but several struck homes or other targets in Israel. Israel bombed hundreds of targets in Gaza, striking Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad facilities and killing a military commander it claimed had links to Iran, resuming a practice of targeted killings it had put on pause. As always, responsibility for civilian dead is hotly disputed, but the Palestinians count two pregnant women and two infants among the dead. The latest round of fighting between Israel and Hamas illustrates not only the constant potential for conflict in Gaza but also - perhaps more counterintuitively - why the combustible situation there has not exploded into outright war. Some Israeli citizens this week called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to escalate the fight, and some militants welcome a broader clash. But both sides have reasons for restraint. Hamas leaders recognize their own military, political and diplomatic weakness; a longer war would achieve little and leave Gaza in even worse shape. And Israel, for its part, recognizes that a weak extremist regime in Gaza is better than the collapse of order in the strip or the rise of an even more radical group there. As Israeli security analyst Gabi Siboni pointed out, "If Israel collapses the Hamas regime, what comes after? Every alternative is awful." So Israel uses enough force to keep Hamas weak and to send a message that shootings and rocket attacks will be severely punished. But it restrains itself to avoid a full conflagration. On both sides, however, domestic politics and misconceptions could spur decisions that could cause the violence to spiral out of control. The latest fighting was intense but should come as no surprise. Israel and Hamas clashed in 2008-2009, 2012 and 2014, resulting in the deaths of almost 100 Israeli soldiers and civilians and that of more than 3,000 Palestinians. Between 2014 and 2018, Israel regularly bombed Gaza to stop rocket attacks and punish Hamas - operations the Israeli military calls the "campaign between the wars." Hamas has long used or tolerated rocket attacks as a way to draw international attention to Gaza - and to Israel's alleged failure to honor past agreements that would enable more economic activity and development on the strip. In addition, this time the group may believe that the timing was especially opportune, because Israel's Memorial Day and Independence Day are coming up (on Wednesday and Thursday) and because in a week, Tel Aviv hosts the Eurovision song contest; Israel may have been more sensitive to disruption. More broadly, Hamas may seek to send the world, including the Trump administration, the message that no peace deal can happen without Hamas' tacit approval. Hamas governs Gaza ineffectively, which hampers its ability to gain leadership of the Palestinian cause. Israel and Egypt both maintain tight control over Gaza's borders, and Hamas' archrival in the West Bank - the Palestinian Authority - uses its ties to Israel and the international community to control money going into Gaza (and undermine Hamas). The resulting misery and stagnation in Gaza are one reason Hamas is willing to risk conflict: to show militants that it is standing up to Israel and let frustrated Gazans know that it will not meekly accept a grim status quo. Yet the lack of an all-out conflict comparable to 2014 suggests that both sides are reluctant to escalate. Hamas' rockets spread terror and some death, but they aren't a winning military strategy, and the group was quick to press for a ceasefire. Israel's tough but calibrated military response ended the barrage without upending the government in Gaza, and it provoked little international criticism (this time, at least). In addition to its poor military options, Hamas is diplomatically isolated. Egypt's leader Abdel Fatah el-Sissi, who has support from both Saudi Arabia and the United Emirates, has proved a bitter enemy, closing the Rafah border crossing and cracking down on the movement of arms and militants between Sinai and Gaza. The wars in Syria and Yemen (where Hamas and Iran back opposite sides) have frayed relations with Tehran, and although the two have reached a modus vivendi, Hamas has learned to expect little from Iran during a shooting war with Israel. Restraint is hardly guaranteed, of course. Israel often conducts the "campaign between the wars" to send a message to its other regional enemies. Any weakness in the face of Hamas attacks, Israeli leaders fear, will embolden Hezbollah in Lebanon and Iran in Syria. Israel, however, must be wary of pushing Hamas too close to the brink. Ironically, Hamas and Israel both have the same answer to Gaza's troubles: the Palestinian Authority. From Israel's point of view, if the Palestinian Authority took control of Gaza, the group could serve as a peaceful alternative to Hamas and an acceptable channel for international aid. Hamas, for its part, is eager to pass the hot mess that is Gaza off to the Palestinian Authority. However, Hamas will not surrender its weapons, as Israel and the United States demand, for fear of losing its "resistance" credentials and because it suspects that the Palestinian Authority would arrest and torture Hamas members (as it has in the past). The Palestinian Authority does not want Hamas to get back on its feet; and it recognizes that trying to bring prosperity to Gaza is a losing proposition. Domestic politics on both sides are wild cards. Former Israeli chief of staff Benny Gantz, who almost unseated Netanyahu in the latest election, claimed the ceasefire was "another surrender to the blackmail of Hamas and terrorist organizations." Hamas' politics are less transparent, but hard-liners are likely to press for a more confrontational approach if the group continues to flounder. In addition, Hamas leaders face competition from even more militant organizations such as the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, as well as Islamic State-type radicals who reject all compromise. The greatest source of Hamas' strength is the political weakness of the Palestinian Authority, which grows ever more discredited as peace talks become a pipe dream. Serious proposals on settlements and a move toward a broader peace agreement would serve Israel well in the long term. But this won't happen without prompting from Washington or a change in heart among the Israeli population and their leaders, neither of which seems likely. For now, limited, sporadic conflict may be the best outcome we can hope for. Daniel Byman is a professor in the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. His latest book is Road Warriors: Foreign Fighters in the Armies of Jihad. Surprising absolutely no one, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin thumbed his nose at the House of Representatives on Monday evening and decided not to turn over President Donald Trumps business and personal tax returns after weeks of saying he just needed a little more time to think about it. In a letter to House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, Mnuchin, citing guidance he received from the Justice Department, said the committees request for Trumps returns lacks a legitimate legislative purpose and he was therefore not authorized to release them. With that, Mnuchin said he was informing Neal that Treasury may not lawfully fulfill the Committees request. If it wasnt clear before, then it is now: Trumps White House has decided to wage war on the principles of transparency and oversight, arguing in a series of recent confrontations with the law enforcement community and Congress that the executive branch has the authority and independence to decide for itself whether it has to respond to and even recognize checks on its power. That muscularity surfaced during Attorney General William Barrs Senate testimony last week, when he fended off hours of questions about how he oversaw the disclosure and interpretation of Special Counsel Robert Muellers report on his Russia-Trump investigation. In response to questions about whether Trump had tried to impede or derail Muellers probe, and had, therefore, obstructed justice, Barr at one point said presidents had the power to upend any federal investigationand to make up his or her mind whether the underlying reasons for a probe were robust enough for it to continue. The president, who has constitutional authority to supervise proceedingsif, in fact, a proceeding was not well-founded, if it was a groundless proceeding, if it was based on false allegations, the president does not have to sit there, constitutionally, and allow it to run its course, Barr said. In short, if the president doesnt like a federal investigation, even if its about him or her, and makes a case that its being conducted in bad faith, then they can stop it. (This might recommend all future presidents to take to Twitter, perhaps, to poison public sentiment about any probe involving the Oval Office.) Its no shock, then, that Barrs Justice Department gave Mnuchin the legal argument he needed to keep Trumps tax returns under wraps. Trumps private attorneys are on board with these arguments too. In a lawsuit last week that they filed on behalf of Trump, his three eldest children, and his company against Deutsche Bank AG and Capital One Financial Corporation, they argued that neither company should comply with Congressional requests for the Trump familys financial records because doing so violated the familys financial privacy and exceeded Congress constitutional mandate. And how does the lawsuit define Congress mandate? It claims legislators can only legislate and therefore dont have constitutional authority to engage in oversight or investigations of the presidency. Congress can only take actions that are tied to existing legislation, the lawsuit asserts. That, of course, is also Mnuchins argument. In the language of the Trump familys lawsuit, none of this is about legislation, its all about partisan politics. Investigations of the president, the lawsuit says, are taking place only to ferret about for any material that might be used to cause him political damage, and no grounds exist to establish any purpose other than a political one. Thats remarkably similar to Barrs repeated observation about the origins and goals of the Mueller probe, one he emphasized during his press conference on April 18 when he released the report: The president was frustrated and angered by a sincere belief that the investigation was undermining his presidency, propelled by his political opponents, and fueled by illegal leaks. Defining Congressional oversight as legitimate only when its tied to legislation helps keep Congress off your back, obviously. But that doesnt mean its the proper definition or that its in the broader, non-partisan public interest to define it as such. Effective oversight, as the Constitutions framers clearly understood, involved separation of powers and checks and balances. Congress is empowered to monitor the presidency, and denying it any supervisory capacity beyond legislation leaves it hamstrungintentionally. Trump is the most financially conflicted president of the modern era. Unlike recent predecessors in the Oval Office, he has chosen not to voluntarily release his tax returns. That limits the publics full understanding of the financial or business pressures that might inform his policymaking, an understanding that is basic to ethical and transparent governing. Its the kind of situation that calls for aggressive Congressional monitoring. But in the era of Mnuchin, Barr and Trump, this view is unlikely to prevail unless legislators take the battle just as seriously as the White House does. Timothy OBrien is the executive editor of Bloomberg Opinion. He has been an editor and writer for the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, HuffPost and Talk magazine. His books include TrumpNation: The Art of Being The Donald. Rare walking fish spotted off Tasmania coast for first time in 22 years Rice-sized microchip placed under skin can become Covid vaccination passport Thailand authorities seize $30M of crystal methamphetamine hidden in boxing punch bags Newspaper: No contract signed with any lobbying organization since Makunts appointment as ambassador to US Newspaper: Armenia ex-President Kocharyan to also hold press conference Armenia PM: There are no legal grounds for existence of enclaves Armen Ashotyan to Pashinyan: Real catastrophe took place when a nincompoop like you came to power in Armenia Armenia PM: Catastrophe took place in Karabakh negotiations in 2016 Armenia PM on first meeting held in '3+2' regional format Armenia PM on opening of communications Yerevan mayor's oath-taking ceremony to be held on Dec. 25 Putin to not call Biden on the phone to wish him a Merry Christmas Armenia PM on granting status of observer to Azerbaijan within Eurasian Economic Union Georgia Parliament Speaker resigns Armenia's Pashinyan: I refuse to discuss any issue related to the army publicly Armenia PM: If the Armenian-Turkish negotiations are a success, of course, there will be a meeting with Erdogan Earthquake hits Armenia-Georgia border zone Armenia PM: I returned from meeting in Sochi with a feeling of satisfaction Armenia PM says he will attend non-official summit of CIS countries, will have contact with Aliyev Armenia's Pashinyan: We returned the captured Azerbaijani servicemen without preconditions Azerbaijan to deploy special military detachments in Karabakh's Hadrut region Azerbaijan President is blatantly threatening Armenia again Armenia FM meets with members of ruling parliamentary faction Armenia PM giving press conference Armenian PM attends Requiem Service for wife of National Hero of Armenia Karen Demirtchyan Analyst clarifies what will disturb Turkey and Azerbaijan from opening so-called corridor via Armenia NEWS.am daily digest: 24.12.21 Republican Party of Armenia: Authorities are creating barrier between Diaspora and historic homeland with their policy Turkey, Qatar sign memorandum on joint management of Kabul International Airport Armenia ex-defense minister Davit Tonoyan to remain in custody Representatives of Azerbaijani and Armenian communities meet in Moscow for first time after Karabakh military conflict Dollar still losing value in Armenia Parliament vice-speaker receives American Chamber of Commerce in Armenia board chairman Republican Party spokesperson: Armenia authorities decided to smoothen ties with Turkey after defeat in war Armenia Health Ministry Legal Department head: Decision of Constitutional Court is ministry's victory MFA: Russia welcomes international efforts to normalize Armenian-Azerbaijani relations Armenia President receives group of parents of deceased servicemen Armenia Security Council holds session Iran FM: Tehran is ready to participate in next stage of negotiations with Saudi Arabia Zakharova on Armenia-Azerbaijan railway link: Substantive discussions continue on trilateral working group Kremlin: US may consult with Ankara over settlement of situation in Ukraine Zakharova: Moscow believes Ankara will take Russia's signals seriously Non-official meeting of leaders of CIS countries to be held on Dec. 28 Audit Chamber official: Armenia banks have misused state subsidies they received Armenia health, labor inspectorate to inspect 700 economic entities in 2022 Russia peacekeepers ensure safe travel of more than 2,000 people to, from Karabakh in one day Azerbaijan's Aliyev celebrates 60th birthday in occupied Armenian city of Hadrut Russia MFA: Not only Turkey ready to hold 3+3 regional consultative mechanism meeting Maria Zakharova wishes Yerevan and Baku peace and patience Valerie Pecresse posts comment on Facebook: I visited Armenia - France's fraternal country Putin, Aliyev confirm readiness to strengthen Russia-Azerbaijan strategic partnership Middle East Eye: Turkey encouraged by Armenia PM Pashinyan's reelection, aims to normalize relations Armenia government: Constitutional Court decision does not lift requirement for employees to submit PCR test result New program shall develop Armenia metrology Armenia opposition MP: Corridor is spoken of as established fact in Azerbaijan Armenia Constitutional Reform Council to include 2 representatives of international organizations Putin expresses Aliyev readiness to continue dialogue, joint work to strengthen regional stability, security 1 more person dies of coronavirus in Karabakh 135 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Lavrov: Involvement of Kiev in NATO poses serious risks, even large-scale conflict in Europe Newly elected Vanadzor city council first session not convened NATO to approach Russia borders in case of aggression against Ukraine President thanks Russia peacekeepers, Putin in terms of Artsakh security Newspaper: What is actual Covid death toll in Armenia? Newspaper: Details became known from closed meeting between Armenia PM, parliament majority faction US arms exports fall 21% in 2021 Diaspora Commissioner: More than 1.5 million people left Armenia in 30 years High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: Armenia won't build relations with Turkey at expense of interests of nation High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: Fifth Turkish Column is very active in Armenia Armenia High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: We Armenians don't know our enemies well Biden administration welcomes 'small' steps toward diplomacy with Russia Blinken, Stoltenberg discuss NATO's 'dual-track approach' to Russia Armenia ruling faction MP: Talks in Brussels were discussed during meeting with PM Armenia Health Ministry responds to Constitutional Court's decision on COVID-19 testing Armenian High Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs: Living in Armenia is safer than in developed countries Analyst shares information about growth of sales of Armenian wines Analyst: Artsakh wine export indicators have dropped Karabakh President: Presence of Russian peacekeeping contingent in Artsakh needs to be guaranteed and termless Iraq calls for launch of direct talks between US and Iran Hayk Marutyan bids staff of Yerevan Municipality farewell Moscow State Institute of International Relations to introduce Armenian language courses Armenia PM: Digital processes should have daily practical significance for people Iran FM expresses willingness to assist Azerbaijan in restoring Karabakh's occupied territories Turkish vice-president tests positive for COVID-19 Lights of main Christmas tree in Yerevan switched on Aram Vardevanyan: Armenian employees no longer obliged to pay for PCR tests, this is unconstitutional NEWS.am daily digest: 23.12.21 Azerbaijan addresses Bosnia & Herzegovina for identification of remains Armenia's Pashinyan is in a meeting with ruling faction MPs Armenia Constitutional Court: Employees don't need to pay for COVID-19 testing Baku is still complaining about Valerie Pecresse's visit to Nagorno-Karabakh Armenia Constitutional Court announcing decision on mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations and testing (LIVE) Turkish court rules to leave Osman Kavala in custody Anti-Corruption Committee: Armenia Prosecutor General's Office's instruction under Aghvan Hovsepyan's case is groundless Dollar drops in Armenia Tumo mobile center to be built in Armenia's Kapan Price of Russian natural gas being supplied to Armenia to remain stable for 10 years Armenia FM presents to Stanislav Zas situation on country's eastern border Putin lets reporters shout from their seats at his press conference More exchange of fire on Tajikistan-Kyrgyzstan border The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived on an unannounced visit to Iraq following the cancellation of a planned trip to Berlin amid aggravated tensions with Iran, CNN reported. The US secretary of state met the Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi and President Barham Salih, and explained the US's security concerns to them. Pompeo said his meetings were "productive" and he spoke to the officials "about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country. "They both provided assurances that they understood that was their responsibility," he said. According to him, the US "wanted to let them know about the increased threat stream that we had seen and give them a little bit more background on that so they could ensure that they were doing all they could to provide protection for our team. The US officials told CNN the US had "specific and credible" intelligence that suggested Iranian forces and proxies were planning to target US forces in locations including Iraq. That intelligence led the Pentagon to recommend a carrier strike group be moved to the region. Speaking to the press pool following his visit, Pompeo reiterated that it was the US' understanding that "these were attacks that were imminent, these were attacks that were going to happen fairly soon, we've learned about them and we're taking every action to deter them. "The central messages are this: We want to make sure that Iraq is positioned so that the relationship that we've built with them and that our allies in the region have built with them -- allies that range all across the Gulf, who understand that the primary threat in the Middle East is Iran -- remains strong, that those relationships remain strong," he said. According to Pompeo, he and officials discussed how to defeat the remaining pockets of ISIS in the country and foreign terrorist fighters being held in detention camps. He also noted he would discuss "big energy deals that can disconnect (Iraq) from Iranian energy," he said afterward that although they spoke about energy infrastructure, they "didn't spend much time talking about sanctions issues." YEREVAN. The Republic of Armenia 2019 budget revenues will not be overfulfilled by 40bn drams, as I had announced, but by 62bn drams, or by $129 million more. Nikol Pashinyan noted this at Wednesdays major press conference on the occasion of his one year in the office of Prime Minister. He began listing the achievements recorded over the course of this one year, adding that he has backup facts, too. Some of these achievements which Pashinyan presented are as follows: State budget revenues grew by 25% in the first quarter of 2019. Taxes and duties were 21.8% of the GDP in the first quarter, which is a 1.3% improvement from 2017. The 120bn-dram debt of the government to the taxpayers was paid. The government has returned $300 million to businesses. A total of 51,000 jobs have been taken out of shadow economy, and some of them are newly created jobs. The number of conscripts serving combat duty has dropped by around 700, and they have been replaced by contract servicemen. A total of 136 new modern video surveillance cameras have been installed along the countrys borders. Armenia has started the process of procuring Su-30SM fighter jets. The salaries of 209,000 people have increased as a result of an amendment to the law on accumulative pension. Treatment of malignant tumors is free of charge. The number of tourists visiting Armenia has increased by more than 10%. Over 20,000 private entrepreneurs have been registered in 2018, and this is 5,400 more than the previous years indicator. The government debt/GDP ratio dropped by 2.3% in 2018, as compared with the previous year. Armenia jumped up 19 places and ranked 61st in the Press Freedom Index; and from the respective ranks of partly free countries, it joined the list of free countries. An ex-president of the country and several other senior officials are defendants in criminal cases. Systemic corruption has been surmounted in Armenia, and the oligarchy is deprived of levers of influence on government decisions. There are no political prisoners and politically persecuted persons in Armenia. The number of arrivals in Armenia has surpassed the number of departures from the country by around 15,000 in 2018, and this is a first within the past ten years. Number of Armenian nationals seeking asylum in EU countries has reduced three times. In the first three months of this year, the number of returnees to Armenia is 2,500 more than the number of those who have departed from the country. Economic monopolies have been eliminated. The number of prisoners has reduced, an amnesty was declared, the institute of parole has begun to operate, and the number of visitations to inmates has doubled. A total of 35 murders were recorded in 2018, and this is the lowest number since 1980. Loans increased by 16%, depositsby 11.8% in one year. The Prime Minister of the country has appeared before court as a witness, and this is unprecedented. The number of officials service vehicles has dropped by 239. As of May 2018, the damage caused to the state by corruption crimes amounted to about 89bn drams, of which 32bn drams have been restored. YEREVAN Azerbaijan is intensively preparing for war over the last 25 years. Nikol Pashinyan said this at Wednesdays major press conference on the occasion of his one year in office as Prime Minister of Armenia. He noted this when asked how real he considered the possibility of resumption of hostilities by Azerbaijan, given the Azerbaijani armed forces recent activeness on the line of contact. Azerbaijan is intensively preparing for war over the last 25 years, he said. If we are having shots fired in an every-day mode, (...) it means we are in a war, or a semi-war situation. But I want to say that, overall, stability and tranquility are maintained. (...) ways of communication are established between me and the president of Azerbaijan; and now, in this period Im trying to understand whats happening (...). And I hope we will succeed in understanding this situation (...). And I wish a speedy recovery to our wounded soldiers. And asked whether he shares the analysts view that Azerbaijan intends to resume military operations, Pashinyan reiterated that Azerbaijan is intensively preparing for military operations over the past 25 years. Nothing has changed in that respect; and as long as the matter is not settled, it will not change, he added, in particular. All parties [to the Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) conflict] should remain faithful to the Vienna statement, and we have recorded there that the ceasefire regime should be maintained and strengthened. The Azerbaijani side also provides information that certain incidents are recorded, there are mutual accusations, and we must try to understand it in working order. We are trying to ensure communication through the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, and as a result, we will make our conclusions. City Hall Reporter Monique 'Mo' Brand joined the Herald in May 2019. Before that, she covered border coverage and county government in Arizona. She also worked as a reporter in Kerrville, Los Angeles, and Norfolk Virginia. The U.S. Navy veteran grew up in Killeen. The Armenian Government recommends abolishing VAT from imports of vehicles powered by electric engines, said Armenian Ecology Minister Erik Grigoryan on Wednesday at the Armenian Parliament. According to him, the adoption of this bill will contribute to the acquisition and use of electric vehicles, as well as reducing the pollution of the atmosphere and energy dependence of Armenia. In addition, according to the minister, this will help increase the use of motorcycles and mopeds with an electric motor. It will also help reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic safety. Also we have studied the motives for encouraging the purchase of electric vehicles in other countries, the results achieved, the official explained. He also noted that the bill provides that this benefit will be granted for 2 years. The number of such vehicles exceeds 4,000 in Georgia, and in general they are exempt from all types of taxes. At the same time, the Georgian government made all gas stations free of charge for these vehicles, he said. At the same time, the minister added that the import of such cars to Armenia in recent years was insignificant and was limited to 20-30 per year. For example, Georgia plans to increase the volume of import of electric vehicles up to 90% the next year. So, in 2019, a total of 2,000 electric vehicles are expected to be imported to Georgia, the Ministry said. He also noted that the import of cars with an electric motor to a certain extent is aimed at mitigating and solving the difficult social and economic situation in the country. The Armenian Ministry of Economic Development and Investments signed on Wednesday the Amendment to the Agreement on the More Competitive and Diversified Private Sector Assistance between Armenian and US Governments, the Ministrys press service reported. The document was signed by the Government of Armenia, the Armenian Minister of Economic Development and Investments Tigran Khachatryan, the US Government, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) Armenia Program Director Deborah Grizer and USAID Deputy Director for Europe and Eurasia Alex Sokolovsky. The USAID-funded 12 draft amendment envisages an additional $7,449,000 grant to finance the USAID-funded project in infrastructure, agriculture and tourism. "In consultation with the US Agency for International Development, we will ask for assistance in the development of tourism, agriculture, in general, small businesses, which we consider to be the most inclusive growth for economic development and for our people, Khachatryan noted. According to Alex Sokolovsky, the USAID is helping partner countries in every possible way to develop their abilities to rely on their own strengths. We are delighted to see how our continuing cooperation will provide further development and development, he said. The Agreement was signed in 2010 to provide assistance to the Armenian Government through USAID. Im ready to bear my share of responsibility for the solution of the Karabakh issue. This is what Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said during his May 8 press conference, responding to the question that, over the past 20 years, the negotiations have been held over one thing, but something else has been presented to the public. When told that second President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan has also made a statement on this, Pashinyan noted the following: Which Kocharyan? The one who developed a plan to hand Meghri? Pashinyan said he was introduced to the documents on the Karabakh issue right after he was elected Prime Minister. Publishing those documents was one of the first things that came to my mind. I would like to do that, but its a delicate issue. Those documents belong not only to us, but also the intermediaries. I know the framework for the solution, and you understand that there is more than one option, Pashinyan stated and asked if each person is ready to bear his or her share of responsibility. Pashinyan stated the increase of the number of cash register coupons by 81 million over the past year and the provision of an opportunity to raise salaries as an example of taking personal responsibility. Those who talk about soldiers, yet refuse to take the cash register coupons, they are the ones who are stealing the food from soldiers, but they also want to live in a new Armenia. Each person has his role to play in the solution of the Karabakh issue, and this means paying taxes, giving and taking coupons and following the laws. Im ready to bear my share of responsibility for this and other issues, Nikol Pashinyan stated. By Prossy kisakye. Former FDC president Dr. Kiiza Besigye and Kyadondo East MP Robert Kyagulanyi also known as Bobi Wine have agreed to work together. Addressing journalists in Kampala earlier today, the People Power Movement Spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi and his Peoples Government counterpart Betty Nambooze said the heads of the two forces of change met and signed a Memorandum Of Understanding as partners in the struggle ahead of the 2021 polls. The duo agreed that working together is a positive step towards their common goal of transition of power in Uganda. Yesterday Kyagulanyi told journalists that he was close to signing a deal with Besigye to mend fences after earlier squabbles. By Ritah Kemigisa. Government is not moved by the latest opinion poll results by Research World International that showed that president Musevenis support had dipped by 50%. According to the poll, if elections were to be held today, president Museveni would win by 32% followed by Bobi Wine at 22% while the four time presidential candidate Dr Kiiza Besigye would only get 13% of the total votes. According to the deputy government spokesperson Col Shaban Bantariza, much as the research findings of the poll are scientifically sensible, politics is not always scientific especially when its talking about what people want to hear. Bantariza says as they head for the 2021 poll, the ruling party will not focus an individual candidates like Bobi Wine who has been ranked highly but rather any candidate who has the potential to disadvantage the ruling NRM. Related Stories 54% of Ugandans dont want M7 back in 2021 The National Security Service of Armenia is conducting an official investigation of certain documents that have disappeared. This is what Director of the National Security Service Artur Vanetsyan told factor.am, responding to the question on who eliminated them and when. During a May 8 press conference, Nikol Pashinyan announced about the elimination of certain documents, and later, in parliament, he clarified that certain documents have disappeared. Based on the results of the official investigation, the documents will be transmitted to the investigative body, and I assume they will be transmitted to the Special Investigation Service, which will give a legal evaluation. If the results of the investigation show that there is an element of a crime in the actions of a particular person and the documents were valuable, there will be an evaluation, and the documents will be examined within the scope of the relevant criminal case, Vanetsyan said, adding that the documents disappeared on May 10, 2018. When asked if former director of the National Security Service Georgy Kutoyan has been interrogated, Vanetsyan said he hasnt. When asked why, he said there is no need. By Prossy Kisakye. The Democratic Party has asked the executive director of the Uganda Communication Commission to follow the law while executing his duties. UCC recently issued a directing ordering media houses to suspend some journalists accusing them for failure to follow broadcasting guidelines in coverage of a People Power Movement news story. DP president Nobert Mao condemned the directive, advising the commission to maintain its independence while deciding on important matters. Yesterday UCC agreed with media bosses to let the named journalists step aside for 30 days as investigations get underway. Related Stories. UCC and Broadcasters agree, journalists affected by directive to step aside Parliaments hands tied on UCC directive Journalists call for UCC boss Mutabazis resignation Chalk up four more. Thats the number of siblings in the Juan family wholl be walking at the University of Miamis undergraduate spring commencement on Friday, bringing to eight the total number of relatives in their clan who have earned degrees from the institution. Being able to study at the same university, meet many of the same friends, and participate in so many events together has been quite an experience for us, said Carlos Juan, an aerospace engineering major and certified pilot who will march in Fridays 5:30 p.m. ceremony with brothers Andres and Mikel and sister Manuela. All are from Spain. Were a very close-knit family, and graduating at the same time is a great way to end this wonderful stage in our lives. Each sibling leaves UM having accomplished something they will always treasure. For Carlos, it was traveling to Guatemala with the UM student group Miami International Outreach to build homes for impoverished families. Truly a humbling experience, he said. For Mikel, who will receive a bachelors degree in industrial engineering and economics, it was becoming a member of and helping to expand a UM kiteboarding club as well as practicing the sport in countries around the world. For Andres, who is graduating from the Miami Business School, it was attending the same university as his siblings, and for Manuela, an international studies and history major, it was finally deciding on an academic study track. Now, they are going their separate ways. Carlos and Mikel will soon be off to London for graduate school; Manuela hopes to earn a masters degree in art management in the near future; and Andres has a job offer on the table as a financial analyst. But the siblings will always remain close, no matter how far apart in distance they may be. We know that family is most important, said Manuela. All four of us attending the same university helped maintain our strong family core, said Andres. The Juan family pipeline to UM is a tradition that was actually seeded more than a decade ago, when the family started vacationing in South Florida and became enamored with the idea of attending UM for college. Cousin Fabiana became the first. Now, with the four siblings graduating on Friday, a total of eight Juan family members will have UM degrees hanging from their walls. And soon, it will be nine, as cousin Diego is currently enrolled at the institution. Said Mikel, Perhaps one day we can start a business together. Before it launches WhatsApp Pay in India, Facebook has selected London as base for the global roll-out of its digital payments service on the mobile messaging platform. According to a report in the Financial Times on Wednesday, WhatsApp would hire nearly 100 people in London to focus on the digital payments service and additional operations staff would be hired in Dublin. WhatsApp has 1.5 billion users globally, including over 300 million in India. The new highly-skilled technical engineering staff would build a payments function as well as products that focus on safety and spam on the app, the report said. "WhatsApp is a truly global service and these teams will help us provide WhatsApp payments and other great features for our users everywhere," Matthew Idema, WhatsApp's Chief Operating Officer, was quoted as saying. WhatsApp has nearly 400 employees globally. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on April 24 that the company is actively working on to launch WhatsApp Pay in India. "We have a test that is running in India for WhatsApp now, we're hoping to launch in several other countries at some point, but I don't want to put a timeframe on that here, but it's something that we're actively working on," he said during an earnings call with analysts. Almost one million people tested WhatsApp Pay in India to send money to each other in a simple and secure way. The company on May 3 told the Supreme Court that it would comply with the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) data localisation norms before launching the full payments service in the country. Read More News: Data rests with users but must flow free: IBM India IS Supporter Warns that Group's Expansion in Africa Poses Risk to Europe and Asia A winning team Jonathan and Samantha Shankle of Marion will each earn bachelors degrees Saturday during 2019 spring commencement exercises at the SIU Arena. An important part of the effort has been their sons, Mason, 3, left, and Maxwell, 5. (Photo by Russell Bailey). A winning tag team as Marion couple prepare to earn degrees by Pete Rosenbery CARBONDALE, Ill. Although they will soon be moving to another state and new journey, the path for Jonathan and Samantha Shankle might become a bit easier and less stressful. For the last four to five years, the Marion, Illinois, couple juggled a variety of schedules, classes and commitments along with two youngsters while relying on each other to achieve their goal. The two non-traditional students will both graduate during 5:30 p.m. commencement exercises Saturday in the SIU Arena at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. While the path might have seemed a bit murky at times and resulted in some anxiety, the couple knew the goal was there, said Jonathan, who will earn a bachelors degree in Industrial Management and Applied Engineering from the College of Engineering. The feeling of seeing everything through to fruition was there in the beginning, he said. As we got another year in, another year in and another year in, its becoming more of a reality. But I dont think it will be a reality until we are loading up and get headed west. Kind of like a tag team For Samantha, returning to the classroom to pursue a bachelors degree in Dental Hygiene after working as a certified medical assistant was about an opportunity to get into the health care profession to help people. But she wanted regular hours to be able to spend time with her family, which includes couples two sons, Maxwell, 5, and Mason, 3. Its important to me to have that time after work to spend with them, she said. In planning out the weeks and who was responsible for what, Samantha and Jonathan sat at the kitchen table after making their class schedules and compared who was in class on what days and at what times. Whomever did not have the early class was responsible for getting children ready and off to school or pre-k; whomever got out early would pick them up and bring them home for dinner. We make a great team. We did it. We are graduating, Samantha said. The couple, both 33, will celebrate their 10-year anniversary in November. They note that there were times when they pushed and encouraged each other. Even the littlest break from school helped. Sometimes that came in the form of doing dishes. Or going to McDonalds to treat the kids, even when both were exhausted from their studies. Often times, the relief came from just being with Maxwell and Mason. You have those days, Jonathan said. You are like, Im done with coursework. Im done for the day. But, then you have this little person around you who says, Lets go play with this. And you are like, Im going to sit down and play Legos for an hour. Its kind of that welcome distraction is there almost at the right time. Students gravitated toward him Bruce DeRuntz, a professor in the technology degree program, said Jonathan brought a lot of maturity and focus to class discussions and even with being an older student, was collaborative with younger students in class projects. Jonathan was part of DeRuntz project management and manufacturing processes classes. He was always an outstanding student who sat in the front row and was able to answer every question. That in turn set a great example for those around him, DeRuntz said. You would find the best students would gravitate toward him. DeRuntz helped Jonathan secure his post-graduation job. Jonathan learned last week that he starts May 27 as an entry-level manufacturing engineer with Spartan Light Metal Products in Mexico, Missouri. The company is a long-time supporter of the engineering college, DeRuntz said, noting that matching this employer inquiry with a good student is a win-win for everybody. It makes you feel good when you can help people out, DeRuntz said. Those opportunities exist. SIU has a great reputation for producing gritty, smart, hard-working students and Jonathan would definitely fall within those ranks. Compassion and personal care for patients Jennifer Sherry, an associate professor in the dental hygiene program, said Samantha also goes above and beyond when it comes to helping classmates in terms of finding patients, marketing the SIU Dental Hygiene Clinic services and helping the underserved in the community. Samantha is looking to work in the public health field as a dental hygienist and will be taking her national board certification. She will be a great asset in a public health center or Federally Qualified Health Center because she gives wholeheartedly and never asks for anything in return, Sherry said. When you discuss certain topics in class, it truly does touch her in a way that is palpable. I really can appreciate her drive and self-starting character. She has done all of this while being a mother of two young boys and a wife. That is impressive!" Seeing each other walk across commencement stage will be special For Samantha, seeing her husband receive his diploma will be a special moment. Jonathan dropped out of high school, earned his general equivalency degree and attended John A. Logan College. His career including working in manufacturing and retail sales and he wanted a career change. Its probably going to be surreal for me because it will be the first graduation Ive actually been a part of, said Jonathan, who watched when Samantha earned her history degree from Webster University. Im going there for the experience and to enjoy it. Ive never had the experience of being the person walking across the stage so that will be cool. For Samantha, it will be another affirmation of meeting an expectation and setting the bar higher for the next challenge. Both believe even though their children are young, Maxwell and Mason will be able to take positives away from their parents experiences and examples as they grow older. Jon and I are pushing each other to get through it. You try harder and make good grades and have that positive outcome of having good jobs so we can take care of the kids, Samantha said. Available resources provided a boost They emphasized the importance of non-traditional students relying on available resources, both federal, state and at SIU. Samantha noted the numerous resources available to help offset costs, including childcare through the states Child Care Resource and Referral agency. Neither of the children were in school until this year when Maxwell started kindergarten. Samantha emphasized the family friendly study room within Morris Library which allows parents to study with their children still nearby. That was amazing. They have toys and books in there and they were occupied while we studied. That was awesome, she said. Encourages others to consider a return to college Samantha noted that even with the struggles, non-traditional students who have children can succeed in pursuing their dreams. The question is the willingness to make short-term sacrifices. Its not forever. Its a relatively small amount of time for a payoff that is going to benefit you in ways that you never thought possible, she said. You have to remind yourself every day that this is short term. Its just a stepping stone for a better future. (Adds details, quotes, background) WILMINGTON, Del., May 7 (Reuters) - A U.S. appeals court ruled on Tuesday that the Trump administration may continue sending asylum seekers to wait out their cases in Mexico while the government appeals a lower court ruling that found the policy violated U.S. immigration law. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in San Francisco found that a preliminary injunction barring the government from returning asylum seekers to Mexico was "unlikely to be sustained" on appeal in its present form and stayed the lower court ruling. The Department of Homeland Security "is likely to suffer irreparable harm absent a stay because the preliminary injunction takes off the table one of the few congressionally authorized measures available to process the approximately 2,000 migrants who are currently arriving at the nation's southern border on a daily basis," the judges said in issuing the stay. While asylum seekers may fear substantial injury upon being returned to Mexico, the judges said, "the likelihood of harm is reduced somewhat by the Mexican government's commitment to honor its international-law obligations and to grant humanitarian status and work permits to individuals returned." The U.S. government was appealing an order by a U.S. District Court in early April that enjoined the policy, known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP). The program, launched in January, was one of many policies aimed at slowing rising numbers of immigrants arriving at the border, many of them families from Central America, that has swelled to the highest in a decade. Since the policy went into effect on Jan. 29, through May 1 more than 3,000 Central Americans have been sent back to Mexico, according to Mexican officials. The government argues that the MPP is needed because so many asylum seekers spend years living in the United States and never appear for their court hearings before their claim is denied and an immigration judge orders them to be deported. Story continues Omar Jadwat, director of the American Civil Liberties Union's Immigrants' Rights Project, criticized the ruling. "Asylum seekers are being put at serious risk of harm every day that the forced return policy continues," he said. Jadwat noted that two of the three judges who heard the appeal found "serious legal problems with what the government is doing, so there is good reason to believe that ultimately this policy will be put to a halt." In recent years, there has been a shift in border crossings from mainly single, adult Mexicans trying to evade capture to Central American families and unaccompanied minors turning themselves in to border agents to seek asylum. Because of limits on how long children can be held in detention, most families are released to pursue their claims in U.S. immigration courts, a process that can take years. (Reporting by Tom Hals in Wilmington, Delaware; Additional reporting by Lizbeth Diaz in Mexico City Editing by G Crosse and Leslie Adler) (Adds quotes from voters, paragraphs 5-10) By Jose Sanchez CAYO DISTRICT, Belize, May 8 (Reuters) - Belizeans on Wednesday voted in a referendum on whether a top U.N. court should rule on neighboring Guatemala's claim that it is the rightful owner of half of Belize's territory, a dispute dating back to Spanish and British colonial rule. Guatemalans in April 2018 overwhelmingly voted to ask the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague to make a decision on the dispute with Belize. The referendum in the small Central American country is highly politicized, but could help end a border conflict that originated during the colonial era. Belize's ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) has argued in favor of seeking the court's intervention in hopes of settling the matter once and for all, betting the court will uphold the current border. Earl Trapp, UDP mayor of the twin towns San Ignacio and Santa Elena, said a vote for the court was "imperative." "This is the time that we have support from the world, from the U.N., to end this unfounded claim," he said. A trickle of voters reached polling stations during the morning, with greater numbers expected in the afternoon. Results of the referendum are expected by early Thursday. Critics of the plan, which include the opposition People's United Party (PUP), are pushing voters to reject arbitration by the court due to the risk that Belize could lose a large chunk of disputed territory from its center to the south. Alfaro Bol, a voter in Stann Creek West in southeastern Belize, said he did not want ICJ judges to get involved. "We have defined borders," he said. "There's no need for 15 foreigners to tell us where our borders lie." Guatemala recognized the independence of Belize at the beginning of the 1990s. But it never accepted the borders and continues to claim about 11,000 square kilometers, about half the territory of the former British colony. Story continues In December 2008, both countries signed a deal that its inhabitants could vote to decide whether the territorial claim, which includes various islands, should be decided by the ICJ. Belize, an English-speaking country of around 375,000 people, became independent in 1981. Inhabited by Maya before the arrival of Europeans, the territory was claimed by Spain and settled by British buccaneers during the 17th century. Belize later became a British possession surrounded by countries that Spain had colonized. Some 147,000 Belize residents registered to take part in Wednesday's referendum. (Reporting by Jose Sanchez; Writing by Anthony Esposito; Editing by David Gregorio) (Adds details, background) LAHORE, Pakistan, May 8 (Reuters) - A bomb targeting police outside a major Sufi shrine in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore on Wednesday killed several people and wounded dozens, officials said. The blast, one day after the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, took place close to the Data Darbar, one of the largest shrines in South Asia. "It was an attack on police that left several dead and dozens of policemen and civilians injured. The target was police," said Syed Mubashir Hussain, a spokesman for the Lahore police. The attack follows a period of relative calm in the city, where attacks were at one time common. No casualty details were immediately available but the Dawn newspaper reported that at least three people had been killed. "A rescue operation is under way and we have shifted 15 people to hospital," said Muhammad Farooq, a spokesman for the city's rescue services. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Sufis have been attacked by hardline Sunni Muslim militants in the past. (Reporting by Mubasher Bukhari and Syed Raza Khan; Editing by Stephen Coates) (Adds comment from bank, size of currency desk) By Pedro Fonseca RIO DE JANEIRO, May 8 (Reuters) - Brazilian police on Wednesday arrested three executives at a small Sao Paulo bank in the latest phase of a sweeping investigation into corruption and money laundering. Prosecutors running the latest phase of the so-called "Car Wash" probe allege that Banco Paulista SA was part of a scheme orchestrated by construction conglomerate Odebrecht SA to launder up to 328 million reais ($83 million) from 2009 to 2015. The three executives are still employees of Banco Paulista, including the general manager and two foreign exchange employees. Known best for its brokerage Socopa, Banco Paulista touts one of Brazil's top 25 currency desks by trading volume. "The foreign exchange desk at Banco Paulista was surprised today by the federal police operation at its headquarters," the bank said in a statement. "The institution is collaborating with authorities and returning to its regular operations." The prosecutors said they were also executing 41 search warrants at addresses that may be linked to the scheme. According to the authorities, Odebrecht had a department set up to channel bribes to politicians and civil servants to win public contracts, especially at state-run oil firm Petroleo Brasileiro SA. Federal police accused Banco Paulista of laundering money in conjunction with Meinl Bank Ltd, a lender that Odebrecht owned in Antigua and Barbuda between 2010 and 2016. Odebrecht did not immediately reply to a request for comment. The conglomerate and scores of its executives have previously confessed to a vast bribery and money laundering scheme revealed by the Car Wash investigation since 2014. The anti-corruption crusade has sent powerful politicians and businessmen to jail across Latin America but has had little impact on the finance industry, despite intense scrutiny of vast money laundering operations. Prosecutor Julio Noronha said Wednesday's operation marked "the beginning (of a process) to punish agents working in the financial and banking industries, who helped to launder millions of reais and helped to pay bribes under the big scheme being investigated." ($1 = 3.9314 reais) (Reporting by Pedro Fonseca in Rio de Janeiro; Writing by Ana Mano and Tatiana Bautzer in Sao Paulo; Editing by Brad Haynes, Alison Williams, Bill Trott and Jonathan Oatis) (Recasts, adds PM May's spokesman, details) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Britain said on Wednesday it was extremely concerned about Iran's announcement that it is scaling back curbs to its nuclear program and said that Tehran would face consequences if it backed away from its nuclear deal. Iran announced steps that stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers for now, but threatened more action if countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. "We are extremely concerned about this announcement and urge Iran to continue to meet its commitments under the deal and not to take escalatory steps," Prime Minister Theresa May's spokesman said. "This deal is a crucial agreement which makes the world safer and we will ensure it remains in place for as long as Iran upholds these commitments." U.S. Secretary Mike Pompeo is having meetings with May and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt on Wednesday, where the move from Iran is expected to be discussed. Although the measures, unveiled by Iran's President Hassan Rouhani a year after Washington pulled out of the nuclear deal, do not appear to violate terms of the deal yet, they could do so in the future if Iran were to persist on the course he set out. Junior foreign office minister Mark Field told Britain's parliament that the nuclear deal was the "only game in town" and that Britain and other European powers wanted it to succeed. But he added that the move from Rouhani was an "unwelcome step." "We are not at this stage talking about reimposing sanctions, but one has to remember that they were of course lifted in exchange for the nuclear restrictions," he said. "Should Iran cease meeting its nuclear commitments, there would of course be consequences. But for so long as Iran keeps to its commitments, then so too will the United Kingdom." (Reporting by Alistair Smout and Elizabeth Piper, writing by David Milliken. Editing by Guy Faulconbridge) (Updates to show milestone has passed, adds Greenpeace comment) By Susanna Twidale LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Britain, the birth place of coal power, has gone seven days without electricity from coal-fired stations for the first time since its 19th century industrial revolution, the country's power grid operator said on Wednesday. Britain was home to the world's first coal-fueled power plant in the 1880s, and coal was its dominant electric source and a major economic driver for the next century. However, coal plants emit almost double the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) - a heat-trapping gas blamed for global warming - as gas-fired power plants, and were moved out of Britain's cities from the late 1950's to reduce air pollution. As part of efforts to meet its climate target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent compared with 1990 levels in the next three decades, Britain plans to wean itself completely off coal-fired power generation by 2025. Low power prices and levies on CO2 emissions have also made it increasingly unprofitable to run coal plants, especially when wind and solar power production are high. The National Grid, Britain's power transmission network, said coal-free runs like the one this week would become a regular occurrence as more renewable energy entered the system. Britain's independent climate advisers, the Committee on Climate Change, last week recommended that it deepen its climate target to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This would require even more renewable electricity production, an earlier phase out of new petrol and diesel cars, and lifestyle changes such as lower beef and lamb consumption. Britain's last deep-cast coal mine closed in North Yorkshire in 2015, marking the end of an era for an industry once employing 1.2 million people in nearly 3,000 collieries. "Just a few years ago we were told Britain couldn't possibly keep the lights on without burning coal," said Doug Parr, policy director at environmental activist group Greenpeace. Story continues "Now coal is quickly becoming an irrelevance, much to the benefit of our climate and air quality, and we barely notice it." Former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher sounded the death knell for the industry in the mid-1980s when she defeated a bitter year-long miners' strike against plans to close collieries and eliminate jobs. Last year the government rejected plans from Banks Mining to develop a new coal mine in northeastern England on the grounds it could hamper efforts to curb climate change. However, the company won a High Court challenge to fight the decision and the application is now back with the current local government minister, James Brokenshire. (Reporting by Susanna Twidale; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Deepa Babington) (Adds quotes) PARIS, May 8 (Reuters) - France called on Iran on Wednesday to respect all its commitments after Tehran announced it was relaxing some curbs to its nuclear program, and warned against any action that would lead to an escalation. The steps announced by Iran stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers for now, but it threatened more action if countries do not shield it from U.S. sanctions. "France takes note of these statements with concern. It is committed to ensuring that this agreement, key for the international non-proliferation regime and international security, is fully implemented," Deputy foreign ministry spokesman Olivier Gauvin said in a statement. "It is important to avoid any action that would impede the implementation of their obligations by the parties now engaged in the accord or that would fuel an escalation." France is determined to ensure that the accord be fully implemented and that Iran's financial and export channels remain open, he added. France is in close contact with the remaining parties of the accord, mainly European, to review Iran's statements, Gauvin said. The United States said it was not finished imposing sanctions on Iran and planned more "very soon." It warned Europe against doing business with Tehran via a system of non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions. (Reporting by John Irish Writing by Sybille de La Hamaide Editing by Frances Kerry) (Adds Chinese Foreign Ministry comment) By Evan Duggan and Karen Freifeld VANCOUVER/NEW YORK, May 8 (Reuters) - Huawei's chief financial officer intends to seek a stay of extradition proceedings in part based on statements by President Donald Trump about the case, which her lawyers say disqualifies the United States from pursuing the matter in Canada. CFO Meng Wanzhou, 47, the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's billionaire founder, Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at Vancouver's airport in December on a U.S. warrant and is fighting extradition on charges that she conspired to defraud global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. After the arrest, Trump told Reuters he would intervene in the U.S. case against Meng if it would help close a trade deal with China. Meng's defense lawyers said in a document presented to the British Columbia Supreme Court on Wednesday that they intend to apply for the stay of the extradition proceedings based on abuses that go beyond Trump's comments. The lawyers also claim Meng was unlawfully detained, searched and interrogated at the airport, with her arrest delayed under the guise of a routine immigration check. In addition, Meng's counsel argued there is no evidence she misrepresented to a bank Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran called Skycom, thereby putting the bank at risk of violating U.S. sanctions law, or that the bank relied on her statements to its detriment. The lawyers claim the bank understood the relationship between Huawei and Skycom. A spokesman for HSBC, which has been identified as the bank, declined to comment. Huawei has previously said Skycom was a local business partner in Iran. The United States maintains it was an unofficial subsidiary used to conceal Huawei's Iran business. Meng defense lawyer Scott Fenton told the court that during Meng's three-hour detention at the airport in December, Meng's rights "were placed in total suspension." Story continues Speaking in Beijing on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang again demanded Meng's release and return to China. "The United States and Canada abused their bilateral extradition treaty and took unreasonable compulsory measures against a Chinese citizen, which is a serious violation of the legitimate rights and interests of the Chinese citizen," he said. "This is a serious political incident." NEXT COURT APPEARANCE The lawyers also argue Meng cannot be extradited because the conduct at issue would not be criminal in Canada. The bank and wire fraud charges do not meet that criteria because Meng is accused of misrepresenting HSBC to engage in transactions that violate U.S. sanctions laws, the lawyers said. They also note that, under 2019 Canadian sanction law, there would be no risk of fines or forfeiture for any bank in Canada. "Put another way, the alleged offense could only exist in a country that prohibits international financial transactions in relation to Iran," the lawyers said in court documents. "Canada is no longer such a country." Meng's lawyers did not say when they would apply for the stay of the extradition hearing, whose date has not been set. She will next appear in court on Sept. 23, when her defense will make more applications for further disclosure surrounding her arrest at the airport. The process could take years. Meng's case has attracted global attention and sparked a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Ottawa. Huawei said in a statement on Wednesday that the criminal case against Meng is based on allegations that are simply not true, adding that the U.S.-ordered arrest was "guided by political considerations and tactics, not by the rule of law." Huawei and Skycom are also defendants in the U.S. case, accused of bank and wire fraud, as well as violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. Meng was released from jail in December on C$10 million ($7.5 million) bail and must wear an electronic ankle bracelet and pay for security guards. She has been living in a Vancouver home that was valued at C$5 million in 2018. Meng arrived at court on Wednesday wearing an elegant full-length black and gray weave-pattern dress, with the ankle monitor prominently visible. At the hearing, her lawyers requested she be allowed to move to a second Vancouver mansion, one which has been under renovation and was assessed at C$13 million last year. Justice Heather J. Holmes granted Meng's request to move to the larger home for security reasons. The relocation is sure to deepen the anger of some Canadians at the difference in her lifestyle and how two Canadians are being held in a Chinese detention center, said Paul Evans, a professor at the University of British Columbia's School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Chinese police detained the two Canadian citizens after Meng's arrest. In recent weeks, China has upped the pressure on Canada and halted Canadian canola imports and suspended the permits of two major pork producers. (Reporting by Evan Duggan in Vancouver and Karen Freifeld in New York; Additional reporting by David Ljunggren in Ottawa, and Ben Blanchard in Beijing; writing by Denny Thomas; editing by Bill Rigby, Lisa Shumaker and Leslie Adler) (Adds UNHCR reaction) BUDAPEST, May 8 (Reuters) - Hungary forced 11 Afghan nationals to cross into Serbia after rejecting their asylum requests, a rights advocate said on Wednesday, and deported a 12th convicted of people smuggling back to Kabul. The deportation of a further five Afghans, all members of the same family, was temporarily suspended following an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights by the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, a human rights group. The United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) said Hungary's action to force the two families to leave the country was "a flagrant violation of international and EU law." Under Hungarian law, the claims of asylum-seekers arriving from a country that Hungary deems safe are rejected, the agency said in a statement, adding that the case highlighted "deep concerns" over that practice. The Hungarian Immigration and Asylum Office (IAO) said the measures were part of a joint operation with European border and coast guard agency Frontex, in which 39 people were flown to Afghanistan altogether. The Helsinki Committee said the Hungarian operation targeted three Afghan families. Two families, including a pregnant woman, were moved to Serbia overnight. "These people were put in an impossible situation," said Andras Lederer, a Helsinki information and advocacy officer. .".. Either (to) return to Kabul or cross over into Serbia in the middle of nowhere late at night." The IAO said 11 people choose to go to Serbia. The Serbian authorities had given the families accommodation in a reception center, the UNHCR said. An interior ministry media officer said the single Afghan deportee had been convicted of people smuggling. Lederer said the family of five was being held at a border transit zone while their case was pending. The European Court of Human Rights did not immediately respond to emailed questions for comment. The IAO said before arriving to Hungary, the asylum-seekers had passed through several countries, including an EU member state, where they had access to medical and other assistance. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban leads a nationalist government with a strongly anti-immigrant platform, which is a key plank of the ruling Fidesz party's campaign for the European Parliament elections on May 23-26. The UNHCR has advised Frontex to refrain from supporting Hungary in the enforcement of return decisions which are not in line with international and EU law, the refugee agency said. (Reporting by Gergely Szakacs and Sandor Peto; additional reporting by Stephanie Ulmer-Nebehay; editing by John Stonestreet and Jonathan Oatis) * Iranian foreign minister holds talks in Moscow * Blames U.S. for Tehran roll-back of some nuclear commitments * Kremlin agrees, says Washington has forced Tehran's hand * Both call on European nations to shield Iran (Recasts after end of talks with new quotes, incorporates Kremlin comments) By Andrew Osborn and Tom Balmforth MOSCOW, May 8 (Reuters) - Russia and Iran condemned the United States on Wednesday, blaming it for what they portrayed as Tehran's forced decision to scale back some curbs to its nuclear program, while putting the onus on European powers to offer Iran sanctions relief. Iran earlier on Wednesday announced steps that for now stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers under which it agreed to limit its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. But it threatened more action if it was not shielded from U.S. sanctions. The Kremlin said Iran had been provoked into rolling back some of the terms of the deal due to pressure from the United States, a year after Washington itself pulled out of the pact. "President Putin has repeatedly spoken of the consequences of unthought-out steps regarding Iran and by that I mean the decision taken by Washington (to quit the deal). Now we are seeing those consequences are starting to happen," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. After holding talks in Moscow, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said he could guarantee the nuclear deal's survival if the agreement's European signatories fulfilled their obligations, something he accused them of not doing. "Russia and China fulfilled their obligations... but other parties, including the Europeans, have not been honoring their commitments," said Zarif, saying his country's retreat from certain aspects of the deal was legal and could be reversed. "There's now a short window of time when other signatories of the pact, and in particular European countries, can honor the obligations. If these commitments are honored we can guarantee the continued survival of the agreement." Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov agreed, calling on Britain, Germany and France to fulfill their obligations under the deal. U.S. pressure on Tehran was making it hard for it to comply with all the terms of the agreement, complained Lavrov. He said it was crucial that Iran be allowed to export its oil, something Washington is trying to prevent, and that it was essential for the nuclear pact's signatories to hold consultations to ensure the agreement survived. (Additional reporting by Andrey Kuzmin Writing by Andrew Osborn Editing by Peter Graff) * PM sacks League undersecretary involved in corruption scandal * Ruling parties had feuded over the issue * 5-Star applauds PM's decision, League dissents but accepts it * Tensions increase Italy's borrowing costs (Recasts lede, adds Salvini comments, updates market reaction) By Giuseppe Fonte ROME, May 8 (Reuters) - Italy's coalition parties vowed on Wednesday to patch up their differences and govern for four more years, after Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte sacked a junior minister involved in a corruption scandal despite resistance from the League party. The issue had created fierce tensions between the right-wing League and the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, threatening to pull their alliance apart as the two parties compete ahead of this month's European Union elections. The outcome is a win for 5-Star, whose support is based on a squeaky-clean image and a hard line against corruption, and a setback for the League, whose leader Matteo Salvini had vigorously defended the official. Armando Siri, a League transport ministry undersecretary and economic adviser to Salvini, was put under investigation last month for allegedly accepting a bribe from a wind farm entrepreneur who has been linked to the Mafia. Both Siri and the businessman have denied any wrongdoing. 5-Star had insisted Siri should go, while Salvini argued he should remain in government until proven guilty in court. Conte sacked Siri at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, earning the applause of 5-Star leader Luigi Di Maio and the grudging acceptance of Salvini, who said the government would carry on with its agenda despite the friction over his close aide. "We have so many things to do that no-one will change my view that Italy needs a government," Salvini told reporters. He added that even if, as opinion polls suggest, the League fares much better than 5-Star at the EU elections, he will not push for a cabinet reshuffle to give his party greater clout. Story continues Relations between 5-Star and the League have deteriorated in the run-up to the May 26 EU vote, with the two parties often acting more like bitter political enemies than cabinet allies. The tensions have pushed up Italy's borrowing costs, with the gap between its benchmark bond yields and safer German Bunds increasing on Wednesday to the widest in more than two months. The spread narrowed partially after Siri's dismissal and the parties' pledges to plow on together. Di Maio said he was "very proud" of Conte's decision to sack Siri and insisted the coalition would remain in power for a full term despite the internal strife. "It is not a victory for the 5-Star Movement, but for Italians," he told reporters, adding that corruption was a "national emergency" that had to be tackled head on. Conte, a former academic who is close to 5-Star, said the cabinet meeting had been "open and loyal." There was no immediate comment from Siri, who remains a member of the upper house Senate after losing his government role. (Reporting by Giuseppe Fonte and Angelo Amante, writing by Gavin Jones; Editing by Crispian Balmer and Catherine Evans ) (Adds quotes, context) MOSCOW, May 8 (Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Wednesday that Iran had been provoked into rolling back some of the terms of a 2015 nuclear deal due to external pressure which it blamed on the United States. Iran said earlier on Wednesday it had started scaling back parts of its commitments under the deal and threatened to do more if world powers did not protect it from U.S. sanctions, a year after Washington pulled out of the pact. "President Putin has repeatedly spoken of the consequences of unthought-out steps regarding Iran and by that I mean the decision taken by Washington (to quit the deal). Now we are seeing those consequences are starting to happen," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call. Peskov was speaking as talks in Moscow between Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov got underway. Peskov said Russia wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive and that its diplomats were doing all they could behind the scenes in talks with European officials to try to save it. Asked if Russia might be ready to join other countries in imposing new sanctions against Iran over its partial roll back on the deal, Peskov said: "For now, we need to soberly analyze the situation and exchange views on this. The situation is serious." (Reporting by Tom Balmforth and Olesya Astakhova; Editing by Andrew Osborn) (Adds White House spokeswoman on food aid) By Josh Smith SEOUL, May 8 (Reuters) - North Korea's "strike drill" last week at which leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch of rockets and at least one short-range ballistic missile was "regular and self-defensive," the country's foreign ministry said on Wednesday. "The recent drill conducted by our army is nothing more than part of the regular military training, and it has neither targeted anyone nor led to an aggravation of the situation in the region," an unidentified ministry spokesperson said in a statement to the state-run KCNA news agency. Acting U.S. Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan told a congressional hearing on Wednesday that North Korea launched "rockets and missiles," the first time the Pentagon has detailed what it believes Pyongyang fired. Saturday's drill was the first test of a ballistic missile by North Korea since it launched a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. It came in the wake of talks with the United States and South Korea stalling in February, and raised alarms in both countries, which have been seeking to persuade Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. Seoul responded on Saturday by calling on its northern neighbor to "stop acts that escalate military tension on the Korean Peninsula." In a second statement carried by KCNA on Wednesday, a spokesman for the North Korean office in charge of military engagement with South Korea lashed out at Seoul over any suggestion that the rocket drills had violated an inter-Korean agreement aimed at reducing military tension. "The South Korean military should take a close look at the inter Korean military agreement and recall what it has done itself before talking nonsense that it was against the spirit of the agreement," the spokesperson said, according to KCNA. The second statement also criticized last week's test of a U.S. Minuteman intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) by the U.S. Air Force out of California over the Pacific, saying South Korea was in no position to criticize North Korea. Story continues "The South Korean military has no right to say a word to its fellow countrymen when it acted like a mute who ate honey when the United States fired a Minuteman ICBM which threatens us," the military spokesman said. According to a subsequent English-language report on KCNA, the spokesman also took aim at Seoul for staging "provocative" combined air drills with the United States and for allowing the stationing of a U.S. THAAD anti-missile system on its territory. It also appeared to hint at the possibility of more weapons tests, saying: "The south Korean military were astonished by the recent strike drill. It might fall into a swoon to see a strike drill involving more powerful cutting-edge weapons." U.S. President Donald Trump, who has met with Kim twice, said on Saturday he was still confident he could make a deal with him, and U.S. and South Korean officials have subsequently played down last week's tests. FOOD SHORTAGES North Korea's criticism of Seoul has come even as South Korea has said it is working on a plan to send humanitarian food aid to North Korea after the United Nations reported the country had suffered its worst harvest in decades, leaving many there chronically short of food. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said on Wednesday that the United States would not stand in the way if South Korea went ahead with that. "Our position in regards to North Korea is going to continue to be the maximum pressure campaign. Our focus is on the denuclearization," Sanders told reporters, referring to a U.S.-led sanctions campaign against North Korea aimed at pressuring it to give up its nuclear weapons. However, she added, referring to food aid: "If South Korea moves forward on that front, we're not going to intervene." South Korea said after a call between its President Moon Jae-in and Trump on Tuesday that the U.S. president supported the plan to provide humanitarian food aid. The U.S. State Department last week blamed the shortages on the North Korean government and said it could meet its people's needs if it redirected state funds from its weapons programs. North Korea's foreign ministry statement hit back at "spiteful remarks" about the tests from unnamed critics, warning that "baseless allegations" might "produce a result of driving us to the direction which neither we nor they want to see at all." The spokesperson complained said there was a double standard, with South Korea and the United States carrying out military drills with little criticism. "Only our regular and self-defensive military drill is branded as provocative, and this is an undisguised manifestation of the attempt to press the gradual disarmament of our state and finally invade us," the spokesperson said. "We think this is very much unpleasant and regrettable, and we sound a note of warning." After meeting with Kim for the first time in June last year, Trump abruptly announced he was canceling all large-scale military exercises with South Korea. Smaller exercises have continued, however, drawing regular criticism from Pyongyang. North Korea had maintained a freeze in nuclear and ballistic missiles testing in place since 2017, a fact Trump has repeatedly pointed to as an important achievement from his engagement with Pyongyang. (Reporting by Josh Smith; Additional reporting by Hyonhee Shin and Minwoo Park in Seoul and Idrees Ali, David Brunnstrom and Robertan Rampton in Washington; Editing by Hugh Lawson and James Dalgleish) (Adds U.S. comment) By Saad Sayeed ISLAMABAD, May 8 (Reuters) - A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row falsely charged with blasphemy has left the country, her lawyer and media said on Wednesday, more than six months after she was acquitted by Pakistan's top court. Asia Bibi's lawyer said he understood she had departed for Canada. Pakistani and Canadian officials have not officially commented on Bibi's reported departure, perhaps due to the sensitive nature of her case. Bibi's release in October sparked rioting by hardline Islamists, who rejected the Supreme Court's verdict and warned Prime Minister Imran Khan's government that she must not be allowed to leave the country. They also called for Bibi, who has been staying at an undisclosed location under tight security, to be killed. "I have inquired within available channels, and according to them she has left for Canada," Bibi's lawyer, Saif Ul Malook, told Reuters. Pakistani TV channels Geo and ARY, citing unidentified sources, also reported Bibi had left the country. Pakistan's foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. A Canadian government spokeswoman said in an emailed statement: "Global Affairs Canada has no comment." In November, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country was in talks with Pakistan about helping Bibi, whose family are believed to be outside Pakistan. She is widely expected to seek asylum and diplomats say she will have no problems. A statement from the U.S. State Department said it "welcomes the news that Asia Bibi has safely reunited with her family." "Asia Bibi is now free, and we wish her and her family all the best following their reunification. The United States uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, as they jeopardize the exercise of fundamental freedoms," the statement said. Pakistan's Supreme Court in January upheld its earlier verdict to free Bibi, but Pakistani officials have worried that her sudden departure could trigger further riots. Story continues Islamists have criticizing the government and the military for caving in to what they call pressure from the Western world. Bibi, a farm worker and a mother of four, was convicted in 2010 of making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbors working in the fields with her objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and has been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help her were assassinated, including Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, shot by his own bodyguard. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said it was "fantastic news that Asia Bibi appears to have left Pakistan safely." Hunt, who was due to discuss persecution of Christians with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, head of the Church of England, tweeted that Bibi's freedom "shows that with concerted effort the right thing can happen." (Additional reporting by Syed Raza Hassan in Islamabad and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Writing by Drazen Jorgic Editing by Nick Macfie and Jonathan Oatis) (Adds Pompeo comments, Labour response) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was disgusted to see politicians in Britain, as well as in the United States, continue to support Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Responding to a reporter who asked about support for Venezuela's government by Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Britain's opposition Labour Party, Pompeo was blunt in his criticism. "It is disgusting to see leaders in not only the United Kingdom but in the United States as well who continue to support the murderous dictator Maduro," Pompeo said at a news conference in London. British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt, speaking at the same news conference, criticized Labour's second-most senior official, John McDonnell, for supporting Maduro. A Labour spokeswoman said the party's position on Venezuela was to call for no foreign interference in the country. "We oppose outside interference in Venezuela, whether from the U.S. or anywhere else: the future of Venezuela is a matter for the Venezuelans," she said. The leftist Venezuelan president has faced pressure to quit since taking office for a second term. Opposition leader Juan Guaido, calling Maduro's 2018 re-election fraudulent, invoked the constitution in January to assume an interim presidency and has been recognized by the United States and most other Western nations as Venezuela's legitimate leader. Pompeo renewed his criticisms of Labour later on Wednesday when he was asked in a television interview whether Washington was seeking to interfere in the Latin American country. "Yes, well, providing food for starving children isn't interference. It's what we do. It's in our deepest traditions of humanitarian assistance," he told Sky News. "The interference has taken place. The Cubans are there. They have interfered. So I hope Mr Corbyn will ask the Cubans to cease their interference in Venezuela." (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge and Kate Holton Writing by William Schomberg Editing by Elisabeth O'Leary and Frances Kerry) * Pompeo cautions Britain over China * Says China is a challenge like USSR * Says China and Huawei stealing secrets * Pompeo asks: Would Thatcher be silent on China? (Updates after speech) By Guy Faulconbridge, Kylie MacLellan and Andrew MacAskill LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Britain on Wednesday it needed to change its attitude towards China and telecoms company Huawei, casting the world's second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. Pompeo questioned the attitude of Prime Minister Theresa May's government towards Beijing and goaded London by saying that the late former British leader Margaret Thatcher, who was known as the Iron Lady, would have taken a much firmer line with China. He brought a tough message to Britain, which agreed last month to allow China's Huawei Technologies a restricted role in building parts of its 5G network. "Now is not the time for either of us to go wobbly," Pompeo said in a speech of the so-called special relationship, paraphrasing what Thatcher once famously told late U.S. President George H.W. Bush. "In China, we face a new kind of challenge; an authoritarian regime that's integrated economically into the West in ways that the Soviet Union never was," Pompeo said. The United States has told allies not to use Huawei's technology to build new 5G networks because of concerns it could be a vehicle for Chinese spying, an accusation the firm has denied. Britain has indicated it would allow the company a restricted role. "Ask yourself: would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion? Would she allow China to control the internet of the future?" Pompeo said. "Insufficient security will impede the United States' ability to share certain information within trusted networks. This is just what China wants to divide Western alliances through bits and bytes, not bullets and bombs." Story continues Pompeo said China steals sensitive intellectual property and sensitive commercial data in Europe, Asia, and the United States, and singled out Huawei. "The Chinese government can rightfully demand access to data flowing through Huawei and ZTE systems. Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace?" he asked. "We know 5G is a sovereign decision but it must be made with the broader strategic context in mind," he said. HELP 'REIN IN' IRAN Pompeo came to London for talks with May and foreign minister Jeremy Hunt a month before President Donald Trump makes a formal state visit that is likely to generate political controversy and large street protests. He said Russia's Nord Stream 2 project, a project to build a gas pipeline from Russia to Germany, should not be allowed to proceed. He praised the Britain's stance on North Korea. However, his warm words did not mask disagreements between the two allies over Iran and particularly Huawei. British Culture Secretary Jeremy Wright said separately it was still possible that the roll-out of 5G networks in Britain could be delayed by a review into telecoms equipment, adding: "The primary intention of this process is to get the security of the network right." The two countries have also disagreed on Iran. On Wednesday, Iran announced it was relaxing curbs on its nuclear program under the 2015 deal with world powers, and threatened to do more - including enriching uranium to a higher level - if other countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. The United States withdrew from the pact last year, while Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia stayed in the accord with Tehran, under which Iran's nuclear curbs were rewarded with lifted sanctions. Pompeo told reporters the United States would make decisions on how to respond when it saw what Iran's actions were. Tim Morrison, Special Assistant to the President, told a conference in Washington to "expect more sanctions ... very soon." "I urge the UK to stand with us to rein in the regimes bloodletting and lawlessness, not soothe the Ayatollahs angry at our decision to pull out of the nuclear deal," Pompeo said. Earlier, Pompeo met May, who has been grappling with a political crisis over Britain's planned exit from the European Union. "President Trump is eager for a new free trade agreement that will take our Number 1 trade relationship to unlimited new heights," Pompeo said of the future relationship with Britain. "Weve filed all the papers we can at this point. Were ready to go." (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge, Kate Holton and William Schomberg Writing by Michael Holden Editing by Janet Lawrence, Kevin Liffey and Frances Kerry) (Adds quote, background) MOSCOW, May 8 (Reuters) - Russia has expelled two Swedish diplomats from Moscow as part of a reciprocal move against Stockholm, Sweden said on Wednesday. Relations between the two countries have been strained in the last few years over Russia's actions in Ukraine and saber-rattling in the Baltic. "Sweden has previously made the decision that one Russian diplomat would not have his visa renewed and following that, we have declined Russian applications for diplomatic visas," a Swedish foreign ministry spokeswoman said. "Russia has answered by asking two Swedish diplomats to leave Russia." The spokeswoman declined to give further details. The ministry said in December that Moscow had asked one of its diplomats to leave Russia after Stockholm rejected two Russian applications for diplomatic visas. Asked in Moscow whether the Kremlin had expelled two Swedish diplomats in response to Stockholm's visa rejection, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the question did "not require us to comment." "Without getting into details, I can say that the answer is contained in the question," TASS news agency quoted her as saying. "I am talking about the phrase 'in response'," she said, declining to provide further details. In February, Sweden arrested a man on suspicion of spying and of having been recruited as an agent by a Russian intelligence officer working under diplomatic cover in Sweden. The diplomat was still in the country in March and the Swedish Foreign Ministry called in the Russian ambassador to ask that he leave. The Foreign Ministry spokeswoman could not confirm whether the diplomat has since left. Sweden was one the countries which expelled a Russian diplomat following the poisoning attack in Salisbury, England in March last year, which the European Union blamed on Moscow. Russia denies the charge. (Reporting by Christian Lowe in Moscow and by Simon Johnson in Stockholm; Writing by Tom Balmforth; editing by Angus MacSwan) (Adds no board members charged, detail) COPENHAGEN, May 8 (Reuters) - Danish prosecutors have charged 10 former Danske Bank managers over their suspected involvement in one of the world's biggest money laundering scandals, newspaper Berlingske reported on Wednesday, citing unidentified sources. The charges relate to a case involving some 200 billion euros ($224 billion) of suspicious transactions that passed through Danske Bank's Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015. Former chief executive Thomas Borgen, who stepped down last October, was among the 10 people charged, Berlingske said. On Tuesday, Borgen's lawyer told newspaper Borsen that his client had been charged and his home raided by investigators. The Danish state prosecutor declined to comment on Wednesday. Borgen's lawyer was not immediately available for comment. The nature of the charges were unclear and no other people were named in the report. No current or former members of Danske Bank's board - which appoints the management team and sets strategy - have been charged, according to the Berlingske report. Denmark's biggest bank is being investigated by authorities in several other countries including the United States, where it could face major fines. Denmark's state prosecutor filed preliminary charges against Danske Bank in November for alleged violations of the country's anti-money laundering act in relation to its Estonian branch. The prosecutor said at the time he would clarify whether individuals could be held responsible. ($1 = 0.8929 euros) (Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen and Stine Jacobsen; Editing by Jason Neely and Mark Potter) * Electoral board has ruled for re-run of Istanbul vote * Opposition CHP says same irregularities marred Erdogan election * Erdogan says annulling vote important for democracy (Adds U.S. State Department reaction) By Tuvan Gumrukcu ANKARA, May 8 (Reuters) - Turkey's main opposition party said on Wednesday it had formally requested the annulment of President Tayyip Erdogan's mandate because the same flaws his AK Party alleged in the city's March 31 mayoral vote occurred in last year's national elections. The Republican People's Party (CHP) also said votes for Istanbul officials and councils, submitted in the same envelopes as the mayoral election, should be canceled if the mayoral vote is re-run. The AK Party (AKP) won a majority in the councils. After weeks of appeals by the AKP and their nationalist MHP allies, Turkey's High Election Board (YSK) ruled on Monday for a re-run of the Istanbul mayoral election, which was dramatically won by the CHP's Ekrem Imamoglu with a razor-thin majority. It was the first time in 25 years that the AKP or its Islamist predecessors had failed to win control of Istanbul, Turkey's largest city with a budget of close to $4 billion. Erdogan launched his own political career as Istanbul mayor. In its ruling, which also annulled Imamoglu's mandate, the YSK cited irregularities in the appointment of polling station officials. Erdogan's party said the fact that individuals who were not public servants had been appointed to the polling stations amounted to organized crime. However, the YSK left results for district administrators, municipal councils and local officials unchanged, a decision which the CHP said was nonsense because all four votes were cast in the same envelopes and counted by the same polling officials. "If you're revoking Ekrem Imamoglu's mandate ... then you must also annul President Erdogan's mandate because the same laws, same regulations, same applications, same polling stations and conditions were present in both elections," CHP Deputy Chairman Muharrem Erkek told reporters. Story continues "Why are you not canceling the results that came out of the same envelopes?" he said. A video posted on the AKP's Twitter account said the YSK had not ruled that all the elections must be re-run in Istanbul because the number of "suspicious" votes it had identified would not affect the outcome of the district council polls. In his first comments after the YSK's decision, Erdogan said on Tuesday that the elections had been marred by "organized irregularity." The United States, which has had tetchy relations with Erdogan, issued a statement on the re-run, saying that "we, like other friends of Turkey, take note of this extraordinary decision." "Turkey has a long, proud democratic tradition. We urge Turkish authorities to carry out this election in keeping with its laws, and in a manner that is consistent with its OSCE commitments, its status as a NATO ally, and its aspirations for membership in the European Union," the statement from State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said. DEMOCRACY UNDER THREAT? Asked about the ruling, Imamoglu said democracy was the victim. "The municipal council, crystal clear. The local officials, great. The district administrators, also okay. But the mayoral, there is an issue there," he told Turkey's Fox TV late on Tuesday. "When Ekrem Imamoglu wins as mayor, you complain of irregularities. How can this be in line with anyone's morals?" Imamoglu is portraying the election re-run as a battle for democracy in Turkey, maintaining since Monday's ruling the upbeat and defiant tone of his original election campaign. In a video interview with online newspaper T24 broadcast on Wednesday, Imamoglu said he did not expect the election board to accept the CHP's request. Responding to his appeal for support in a fiery speech after the announcement, around a million people including several prominent artists have used the hashtag #HerSeyCokGuzelOlacak (Everything Will be Alright) to show their solidarity. The Union of Turkish Bar Associations (TBB), representing Turkey's top lawyers, has said the YSK's ruling had no legal basis and demanded that it publish a detailed justification. The YSK has yet to set out its reasoning, which it is legally obliged to do. It was also not immediately clear when it would rule on the CHP's appeal. CHP leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu on Tuesday accused the YSK of betraying voters' trust, saying the seven members who voted in favor of the re-run were "gang members" who bowed to the wishes of the AKP. State-owned Anadolu news agency quoted the YSK on Wednesday as condemning Kilicdaroglu's comments, saying he should not be allowed to insult members of the judiciary. Challenges to the election results have unnerved financial markets and put pressure on the already ailing lira, which tumbled to its weakest level since October after the YSK scrapped the vote. The lira stood at 6.1830 against the dollar at 1451 GMT on Wednesday, as investors questioned Turkey's commitment to both the rule of law and economic reforms during a recession. "The elections will be repeated in Istanbul, but they will be felt across the whole country," the TBB said in its statement. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Additional reporting by Ali Kucukgocmen and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Editing by Dominic Evans and Gareth Jones and Catherine Evans) (Adds Chinese ministry comment) WASHINGTON, May 7 (Reuters) - The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday unanimously backed legislation supporting Taiwan which faces military and diplomatic pressure from China as members of the U.S. Congress push for a sharper approach to relations with Beijing. China expressed anger and said the bill should be blocked. The House passed the measures as Washington and Beijing continue months-long trade talks. China said on Tuesday Vice Premier Liu He would travel to Washington this week, setting up a last-ditch bid for a deal that would avoid a steep increase in tariffs ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump. The House voted 414-0 for a non-binding resolution reaffirming the U.S. commitment to Taiwan. It also backed by unanimous voice vote the "Taiwan Assurance Act of 2019," which supports Taiwan and urges it to increase its defense spending, noting Washington should conduct "regular sales and defense articles" to Taiwan and back Taipei's participation in international organizations. There was no word on when the Assurance Act might come up for a vote in the Senate, which would be necessary before it could become law. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said the bill was an interference in China's internal affairs and China had already lodged "stern representations" with Washington about it. China urged the United States to block the bill's progress and "appropriately handle Taiwan-related issues to avoid seriously harming China-U.S. cooperation on important areas and peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," he said. Taiwan's foreign ministry said it welcomed the "positive" move and expressed its gratitude. Taiwan would "continue to work hand-in-hand with the U.S. authorities to firmly deepen the Taiwan-U.S. partnership," it added in a statement. The U.S. measures reflect its concern over any efforts by Beijing to influence Taiwan. Washington has no formal ties with Taipei, but is bound by law to help provide the island with the means to defend itself and is its main source of arms. Beijing regards Taiwan as its sacred territory and regularly calls it the most sensitive and important issue in ties with the United States. The House Foreign Affairs Committee has also scheduled five hearings this week on the relationship between the United States and China. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Additional reporting by Yimou Lee in Taipei and Ben Blanchard in Beijing; Editing by G Crosse and Darren Schuettler) (Adds details on Trump Jr. and investigations) By Mark Hosenball WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed one of the president's sons, Donald Trump Jr., to answer questions about his contacts with Russia, two congressional sources said on Wednesday. The panel, which along with the Senate is controlled by Trump's fellow Republicans, wants to question Trump Jr. about testimony he gave to the Senate Judiciary Committee in September 2017 which was subsequently contradicted in public testimony by former Trump attorney Michael Cohen, one of the sources said. The committee is one of the few in the Senate that has been conducting serious investigations related to Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Trump's son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner has appeared before the panel at least twice. During his Judiciary Committee appearance, the source said, Trump Jr. was asked about the extent of his involvement in a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. "Like I said, I was peripherally aware of it, but most of my knowledge has been gained since as it relates to hearing about it over the last few weeks," Trump Jr. told the committee, according to an official transcript. In testimony before the House of Representatives Oversight Committee, however, Cohen, said he briefed Trump family members "approximately 10 times" about the Moscow Trump Tower project, and that Trump Jr. and his sister Ivanka were among the family members he briefed. Cohen has also told Congress that some reimbursement checks issued to him for hush money payments to an adult film star who said she had an affair with President Trump were signed by Trump Jr, as well as the Trump Organization's chief financial officer. Cohen this week began serving a federal prison sentence for tax evasion and campaign finance violations. In his report on Russian meddling in the U.S. presidential election in 2016, Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team of prosecutors reported that there was a reasonable argument that Trump Jr. violated campaign finance laws. Story continues But Mueller's team concluded they did not believe they could obtain a conviction. A lawyer for Trump Jr. did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday. A Senate Intelligence Committee spokeswoman declined to discuss details of its own long-running investigation into Russia's election interference. Along with senior campaign adviser Paul Manafort and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Trump Jr. participated in a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower with Natalia Veselnitskaya, a Russian lawyer who they believed had damaging information on Hillary Clinton, Trumps Democratic opponent in the election. At one point, Trump Jr. sent Rob Goldstone, a publicist involved in setting up the meeting, an email declaring: "If it's what you say, I love it ..." But he later tweeted that all Veselnitskaya wanted to talk about was adoption policy and an anti-Russian U.S. sanctions law. In his report, Mueller detailed extensive contacts between Trump's election campaign and Russian operatives, but did not find evidence of a conspiracy. Trump Jr. has used his Twitter feed to condemn the investigations and media coverage of his father, tweeting on Wednesday: "Democrats are not interested in the truth, they just want to keep the Hoax going forever. The games need to stop." "Investigate the investigators!" he tweeted on Tuesday. (Reporting by Mark Hosenball; Editing by David Alexander, Chris Reese and James Dalgleish) (Rewrites with Trump executive order for new U.S. sanctions on Iran) By Humeyra Pamuk and Jonathan Landay WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered new sanctions on Iran, this time targeting the Islamic Republic's export revenues from its industrial metals sector, and vowed to keep squeezing Tehran unless it "fundamentally alters" its policies. The announcement was made on the anniversary of Trump's unilateral withdrawal of the United States from a 2015 landmark deal between Tehran and world powers to curb its nuclear program in exchange for easing some sanctions and hours after Tehran said it would no longer fully comply with the accord. Tensions were already high between Washington and Tehran when the Trump administration said last weekend that it was deploying a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East, in response to what it said were "troubling indications and warnings" from Iran. Before Trump's executive order for the sanctions, a senior White House official said Washington would impose more economic curbs on Tehran 'very soon' and had warned Europe to stop doing business with the Islamic Republic. "Today's action targets Iran's revenue from the export of industrial metals - 10 percent of its export economy - and puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated," Trump said in a statement. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said. The Trump administration says the nuclear deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed as it is not permanent, does not address Iran's ballistic missile program and does not punish it for waging proxy wars in other Middle East countries. Leading Democratic lawmakers such as Chris Murphy, the top Democrat on the Senate's Middle East subcommittee, said Iran's halting compliance to some parts of the deal was "disastrous news" and accused Republican Trump's administration of making America much less safe through its policies. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi requested a briefing on Iran for members. Story continues Hours before the fresh U.S. sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Tehran was reducing curbs to its nuclear program with steps that for now stopped short of violating the 2015 accord. But it threatened more action if countries did not shield it from sanctions. Tehran halting compliance with some elements of the nuclear deal was "nothing less than nuclear blackmail of Europe," Tim Morrison, special assistant to the U.S. president and senior director for weapons of mass destruction, told a conference. "Now is the time for the community of nations to strongly condemn Irans nuclear misconduct and increase pressure on the regime to comply with U.S. demands," Morrison said, adding that Washington was not 'done' with sanctions on Iran. Morrison said the United States would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to undermine Washington's sanctions pressure on Iran. He advised them against using the so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions. "If you are a bank, an investor, an insurer or other business in Europe you should know that getting involved in the ... Special Purpose Vehicle is a very poor business decision," Morrison said. Spearheaded by national security adviser John Bolton, the Trump administration has taken several unprecedented steps to squeeze Iran such as demanding the world halt all Iranian oil imports and designating Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization, which Iran has cast as an American provocation. "We have made our focus diplomatic isolation and economic pressure and that policy is working," Brian Hook, Special Envoy for Iran, said in a briefing. Hook said that more nations now, compared with a year ago, were in agreement with the United States on Iran. Washington's European allies opposed Trump's decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal and have failed so far to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Jonathan Landay; Additional reporting by Patricia Zengerle and Makini Brice, Editing by Mary Milliken and Grant McCool) South Africa: Over 11 000 inmates to vote today The countrys correctional facilities are ready to allow inmates to participate in the National and Provincial Elections today. Justice and Correctional Services Minister Michael Masutha visited two of South Africas biggest correctional facilities - the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria and the Johannesburg Correctional Centre - to assess their state of readiness on Tuesday. We are satisfied that the IEC, working closely with our DCS officials, have put in place arrangements to ensure that all inmates at our correctional facilities who have registered to vote will have the opportunity to vote said the Minister. At the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre he met with senior officials from the department who appraised him on preparations that have been made to enable offenders to vote at various correctional centres around the country. Out of the countrys 164 000 inmate population, just over 11 000 have registered to vote in the 2019 elections. A number of inmates indicated that the main reason they would not be able to participate in the elections was that they had struggled to raise the R140 fee needed to apply for an ID document. At the Johannesburg Correctional Centre Minister Masutha went on a walkabout to assess the infrastructure that has been set up by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to facilitate voting. He also engaged with inmates to address any obstacles that may prevent those who are registered from participating in the elections. While I am happy with the arrangements, I am a bit disappointed with the numbers of registered offenders. The challenge is that offenders tend to mislead each other with stories of how other yet to be detected offences will be discovered if they register to vote, said Masutha. Voting stations at the various designated correctional centres across South Africa will open at 7am and run for the same hours as those voting stations outside of the facilities. Masutha will himself vote at Orchards Primary School in Norwood on Wednesday. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. (Recasts, adds quotes, executive privilege) WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Wednesday President Donald Trump was moving closer to impeachment with his effort to thwart congressional subpoenas and obstruct lawmakers' efforts to oversee his administration. "Every single day the president is making the case" and "he's becoming self-impeachable," Pelosi said in an interview with the Washington Post, when asked about the possibility of the Republican president being impeached by the House. Trump on Wednesday asserted executive privilege over Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian meddling in the 2016 campaign and its underlying investigative materials, escalating the battle with the Democrats on the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. The move came shortly before the House Judiciary Committee was to vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for defying a congressional subpoena to hand over the full unredacted report. The Judiciary Committee is one of number of committees in the Democratic-controlled House that are investigating Trump and his administration on multiple fronts, including White House security clearances and Trump's personal and business dealings. The House and Senate still are investigating Russian election meddling and possible obstruction of justice by Trump. Mueller's report cited extensive contacts between Trump's 2016 campaign and Moscow but did not find a conspiracy between Moscow and the campaign. It also described actions that Trump took to try to impede the investigation and congressional Democrats have vowed to continue their own probe into the issue. Trump has denied any wrongdoing and vowed to fight all congressional subpoenas. U.S. Attorney General William Barr faces a contempt citation by the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday for failing to comply with lawmakers' requests, while former White House lawyer Don McGahn faces a similar threat. Story continues U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin also has defied Congress, this week not acting on the House Ways and Means Committee's request for Trump's tax returns. Republicans, who control the U.S. Senate, have dismissed House Democrats' investigations as political posturing ahead of the 2020 presidential election. Democrats are divided over how far to take their investigations with some calling for impeachment proceedings and others backing continued panel investigations. "The president ... wants to goad us unto impeachment," Pelosi told the Post. Such proceedings would also be "divisive" for the country, she said. (Reporting by Richard Cowan; Editing by Bernadette Baum and Bill Trott) (Adds quote, background) WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - The United States has received an indication from China that Beijing wants to make a trade deal, White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said on Wednesday, after Washington announced it will raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports. Trade delegations from Washington and Beijing are scheduled to begin their latest round of talks on Thursday. "We got an indication they want to make a deal," Sanders told reporters. "Our teams are in continued negotiations. They're going to sit down tomorrow. We'll see what happens from there." A Reuters report earlier quoted U.S. government and private-sector sources as saying China had backtracked on almost all aspects of a draft trade agreement with the United States. The United States will raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports to 25 percent from 10 percent effective on Friday, according to a notice posted to the Federal Register on Wednesday. U.S. President Donald Trump said in a tweet on Wednesday that he would be "very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers." (Reporting by Roberta Rampton; Writing by Makini Brice; Editing by Mohammad Zargham) The worlds largest gravitational-wave detectors may have just found the first evidence of a black hole devouring a neutron star. When massive objects like neutron stars or black holes collide, they send gravitational waves rippling through the fabric of space-time. Its these telltale wrinkles in space-time that physicists detected using the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) in the U.S. and the VIRGO detector in Italy, according to a statement. At least, the team is 86% sure thats what they saw. [9 Ideas About Black Holes That Will Blow Your Mind] Because this event occurred 1.2 billion light-years away, the signal they detected from it is very weak. "We can never be a hundred percent sure," said Alan Weinstein, a professor of physics at the California Institute of Technology and a member of the LIGO scientific collaboration. Indeed, there's still a 14% chance that the signal was an instrumental error, he said. But if the researchers are correct, this first-ever neutron-star-black-hole collision could teach scientists something about how heavy elements made their way into our planet, our wedding rings, and our bodies, Weinstein told Live Science. Such neutron star collisions release huge amounts of heavy nuclear material, such as gold and platinum, along with electromagnetic waves, such as light waves and gravitational waves. With front row seats, a collision of that magnitude would treat us to a "gigantic light show," Weinstein said. A black hole is larger than a neutron star, but is not large enough to swallow the star whole. Instead, it would tear the neutron star apart, starting with the side closest to its deadly gravitational grasp. But from our peanut gallery seats, 1.2 billion light-years away, that gigantic light show is nothing more than a tiny, fuzzy wiggle in the background signal. To distinguish the celestial objects involved in the collision, the researchers measured the rate at which the frequency of gravitational waves increased as the two objects orbited around each other. Higher mass objects emit higher amplitude gravitational waves, which carry more energy, causing the objects to spiral around each other faster. That means the wave frequency increases more rapidly than it would with lower mass objects Story continues In this case, the frequency increased faster than that of two neutron stars colliding, but slower than that of two black holes colliding. Just a day before this discovery, researchers detected two neutron stars colliding. LIGO has discovered one other collision between neutron stars and 13 collisions between black holes, according to the statement. Collisions on this massive scale are very rare, occurring maybe once every 100,000 years in our own galaxy, Weinstein said. But the further out into space that we look, the more galaxies we can see, which increases the chance we will see more collisions, Weinstein added. The team is now working to see if they can confirm their findings by looking for optical or radio wave signals from the same event. The researchers are also cleaning up the data, to reduce some of the background noise, Weinstein said. Originally published on Live Science. (Adds details on casualties) By Mubasher Bukhari LAHORE, Pakistan, May 8 (Reuters) - A bomb targeting Pakistani police outside a major Sufi shrine in the city of Lahore on Wednesday killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 20, officials said. The blast, a day after the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, went off at a police checkpoint near the Data Darbar, one of the largest Muslim shrines in South Asia, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors a year. "Police was the prime target in this attack. We are collecting forensic evidences to ascertain the nature of the blast," said Ashfaq Khan, deputy inspector general of police operations in Lahore. A police spokesman said the death toll rose to 10, six of them civilians and four police, after a police officer died of his wounds. Officials earlier said eight police had died. At least 23 people were wounded. Muhammad Farooq, a spokesman for the city's rescue services, said at least seven of the wounded were in critical condition. Police set up checkpoints on main roads leading to the shrine and hospitals were placed on alert, officials said. The attack was claimed by the Hizbul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban, a movement that has been fighting the government for years. In a statement, the group said the attack targeted police and had been timed to avoid civilian casualties. "This attack was carried out at a time when there were no civilians near the police," said Abdul Aziz Yousafzai, a spokesman for the militant group. Prime Minister Imran Khan issued a statement condemning the attack and asking the provincial government to help the victims. Sufis, who follow a mystical form of Islam that has been practiced in South Asia for centuries, have been regularly attacked by hardline Sunni Muslim militants in the past. In 2010, two suicide bombers struck the Data Darbar shrine killing 42 people and wounding 175, in an attack officials said was carried out by the Pakistani Taliban. Story continues Militant violence has since declined sharply in Pakistan after a sustained crackdown following the country's deadliest attack in 2014, which killed more than 150 people, many children, at a school in the western city of Peshawar. Since an attack in a Lahore park targeting Christians celebrating Easter in 2016 killed more than 70 people, Pakistan's second largest city has been largely quiet although an attack last year killed nine people. However, officials warned that Wednesday's blast showed the need for vigilance during Ramadan. "People should remain aware of their surroundings when going to pray," said a Punjab provincial minister, Mian Aslam. Police said a general security alert was in force but there had been no specific warning about a threat to the Data Darbar, which protected by heavy layers of security. The complex contains the shrine of Syed Ali bin-Osman Al-Hajvery, widely known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, an 11th century Sufi preacher originally from Ghazni in what is now Afghanistan. (Additional reporting by Saud Mehsud in Dera Ismail Khan and Syed Raza Hasan in Karachi Editing by Robert Birsel) * E-cigarette sales hurt by U.S. slowdown * Shares fall 4 pct * H1 sales in line with forecasts, EPS beats (Adds CEO, analyst comments, details on outlook, share reaction) By Martinne Geller LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - British tobacco company Imperial Brands reported weaker-than-expected sales of its e-cigarettes on Wednesday, citing a temporary slowdown in the United States, helping to send its shares to their lowest level this year. The maker of Gauloises cigarettes and blu e-cigarettes reported higher half-year revenue in line with analysts' estimates and earnings per share that were above forecasts. It also stood by its full-year revenue and earnings targets. But its shares fell 4 percent in morning trade after it reported revenue of only 148 million pounds ($192.90 million) from "next-generation products," well short of the 176 million pounds ($229.40 million) analysts had expected, according to a company-supplied consensus. Chief Executive Alison Cooper told Reuters a slowdown in the United States was to blame, with sales there hurt by a regulatory backlash against youth vaping. "You've seen the category itself did slow in our first half, particularly in the first quarter, in the U.S. But I think that's a temporary thing. We're seeing it growing again currently," Cooper said. "When you're developing something new there's always going to be the odd bump in the road, but the actual prospects are very positive indeed," she said. Jefferies analysts estimated that the United States is expected to deliver around 60 percent of total growth in next-generation products this year. "If it doesn't pick up, it could weigh," they said in a note. Imperial shares were down 4.2 percent at 2,229.5 pence by 0833 GMT. The company reported adjusted half-year net revenue of 3.66 billion pounds ($4.78 billion), bang in line with analysts' expectations, and earnings per share of 115.6 pence. Story continues Analysts on average were expecting adjusted earnings per share of 112.9 pence, according to a company-supplied consensus. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations, revenue rose 2.5 percent, which Jefferies said was below analysts' expectations of 3.2 percent. The company stood by its full-year targets, calling for revenue growth at or above the upper end of a 1 to 4 percent range and earnings per share growth toward the lower end of its medium-term range of 4 to 8 percent. ($1 = 0.7650 pounds) (Reporting by Martinne Geller, editing by Alexandra Hudson and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) * President Ramaphosa battling to shore up ANC support * Faces challenge from main opposition DA and leftist EFF * Voters want jobs, land reform, end to corruption * Power crisis dragging on economic growth * Results expected on Saturday * For more stories about the election (Adds more details, comments from Electoral Commission) By Mfuneko Toyana and Wendell Roelf JOHANNESBURG/CAPE TOWN, May 8 (Reuters) - South Africans voting in a national election on Wednesday expressed frustration at rampant corruption, high unemployment and racial inequalities that persist 25 years after the first all-races poll marked the end of white minority rule. The vote for a new parliament and nine provincial legislatures is the toughest electoral test yet for the African National Congress, which has ruled South Africa since that 1994 vote. Nelson Mandela's former liberation party is hoping to reverse or at least arrest a slide in support. "I'm a member of the ANC but I didn't vote for them this time," said construction worker Thabo Makhene, 32, in the commercial hub of Johannesburg. "They need to catch a wake-up. The way they run the state, mishandling state funds, theyve lost their morals." The elections are the first test of national sentiment since President Cyril Ramaphosa replaced scandal-plagued Jacob Zuma as head of state in February 2018 after four years as his deputy. Queues built up at polling stations throughout the day. Officials have said the results could be announced on Saturday. Opinion polls suggest the ANC will again win a majority of the National Assembly's 400 seats but analysts say its margin of victory may fall as efforts to address racial disparities in land ownership, housing and services falter. The country remains one of the most unequal in the world, according to the World Bank. Joblessness, with more than 27 percent out of work, high crime and corruption have also fueled discontent. Pete Mokokosi, a 77-year-old pensioner, said he felt South Africans needed change, a better economy, education and jobs. Story continues "The weather changes everyday, why can't we?" he said as he waited to vote in the township of Soweto in Johannesburg. In Cape Town, Anneke du Plessis, 43, who works at a media company, said her vote was to end corruption. "We have to unite and stop this downward spiral. This is the most important vote since 1994," she said. Some voters said they would back the ANC. "They have made mistakes before but this time we have the right man," said Alpheus Zihle, 69, a pensioner in Alexandra township in Johannesburg. ECONOMY IN FOCUS Polls are due to close at 9:00 p.m. local time (1900 GMT) but may be kept open to allow those in the queues to vote. Some polling stations around Johannesburg opened late or did not have voting materials, while in the Western Cape Province officials said ballot papers were running out at some locations. Five of the more than 22,000 polling stations had still not opened as of 1500 GMT due to unrest in the communities, the Electoral Commission said without elaborating. Efforts were being made to resolve the issues. Hundreds of people covered in blankets and coats in the chilly winter morning gathered outside a polling station in Soweto, where Ramaphosa cast his vote. "We've made mistakes, but we are sorry about those mistakes, and we are saying our people should reinvest their confidence in us," the president said. "We are going to correct the bad ways of the past." The ANC's biggest challengers are the main opposition party the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). The ANC won 62 percent of the vote in 2014's parliamentary election, down from 2009 and far short of its best result, 69 percent in 2004 under President Thabo Mbeki. Analysts have put that falling support down to graft allegations against government officials, a slowing economy, high unemployment and demands from black citizens for more equitable distribution of land. Ramaphosa -- who became ANC leader after narrowly defeating a faction allied with Zuma -- has promised to improve service delivery, create jobs and fight corruption. But his reforms have been held up by divisions and opposition within his own party. Africa's most industrialized economy grew at an estimated 0.8 percent in 2018 after recovering from a recession in the first half of the year when a drought hit farming, although blackouts at power utility Eskom continue to drag on activity. Growth is forecast at 1.5 percent this year. PARTY LEADERS VOTE The center-right DA won 22 percent of the parliamentary vote in 2014. It appointed its first black leader Mmusi Maimane in 2015 and made headlines by leading coalition victories in local government elections in Pretoria and Johannesburg a year later. But splits within the party could see its support wane. "Fear says to us let's stick with what we know, hope says let's bring change," Maimane said after casting his ballot in Soweto, where he grew up. The EFF's leader Julius Malema, a fiery orator who formed the party in 2013 after he was expelled from the ANC, cast his vote in the northern city of Polokwane. "If you need change, the EFF is the way to go," said Malema, whose party won 6 percent of the vote in 2014, making it the third-largest presence in parliament. It wants to nationalize mines and banks, and played a key role in holding Zuma to account for spending state money on non-security upgrades to his private residence. But assurances of change were not enough for some voters. "When it comes to election time, everyone is going to say they are going to do this and that for you. But once they get the votes ... there's not much done," said 30-year-old Nathen Irusan in the town of Tongaat, about 37 kilometers (23 miles)north of Durban. (Additional reporting by James Macharia, Tiisetso Motsoeneng, Emma Rumney, Naledi Mashishi, Lynette Ndabambi, Onke Ngcuka Nqobile Dludla and Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo in Johannesburg, Tanisha Heiberg in Pretoria, Sumaya Hisham in Cape Town, Rogan Ward in Durban, Siyabonga Sishi and Marius Bosch in Polokwane; Writing by James Macharia and Olivia Kumwenda-Mtambo; Editing by Catherine Evans) (Adds details from press briefing) By Caroline Humer and Michael Erman May 8 (Reuters) - The Trump administration on Wednesday said it will require drugmakers to disclose the list price of prescription drugs in direct-to-consumer television advertisements, part of the government's efforts to lower costs for U.S. consumers. The list price would be included if it is equal to or greater than $35 for a month's supply or the usual course of therapy. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said that the 10 most commonly advertised drugs have list prices ranging from $488 to $16,938 per month or usual course of therapy. "The vast majority of Americans struggling to afford their drugs are put in that position because they are paying based on high list prices," HHS Secretary Alex Azar said in a press briefing. Azar said that the TV advertising requirement would work to drive down list prices alongside a recently proposed rule aimed at requiring that drug rebates, or discounts, be passed on to Medicare patients when they buy the drugs. The advertising rule, which was finalized on Wednesday, will take effect in about 60 days. It was originally suggested as part of President Donald Trump's "blueprint" to lower U.S. drug prices last May. Health and Human Services said that enforcement of the rule would be done by competitors, who can sue under the Lanham Act, a 1946 U.S. law that prohibits false advertising. Those suits would accuse drugmakers of false advertising if they do not include the information, because they would be implicitly suggesting that their product costs less than $35 a month. Azar said the agency settled on the $35 a month benchmark because that is a common copayment paid by patients filling their monthly prescriptions. Most drug companies have argued against the proposed rule, saying list prices do not reflect the final amount paid by patients as it excludes rebates and discounts drugmakers may offer. Story continues But Johnson & Johnson has already started including the list price - as well as potential out of pocket costs - in some of its ads. Under the new rule, the ads can include language saying that if patients have health insurance that covers drugs, their costs may be different. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), the industry's top U.S. lobbying group, said in October that including the list price in commercials could discourage patients from seeking needed medical care. The group did not immediately comment on the finalized rule. (Reporting by Caroline Humer and Michael Erman in New York; Additional reporting by Ankur Banerjee in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila, Andrea Ricci and Steve Orlofsky) (Recasts first sentence with U.S. president, adds comments by Ohio governor, Workhorse, Canadian prime minister, updates stock action, adds other details) By David Shepardson and Tyler Choi WASHINGTON/TORONTO May 8 (Reuters) - Under pressure from President Donald Trump, General Motors Co said on Wednesday it was in talks to sell an idled northeast Ohio plant to a cash-strapped electric truck-building company. The No. 1 U.S. automaker also said it would invest $700 million in three other plants in Ohio - a state important to Trump's re-election chances in 2020 - and maintain some operations at a Canadian factory that had been slated to close by year end. The decisions came after GM faced months of criticism over its plan announced in November to close five North American plants and cut 15,000 jobs. GM's decision to close the small-car assembly plant in Lordstown, Ohio, had become fodder for Trump and several Democratic presidential candidates. Trump, who disclosed GM's plans for Lordstown in a Wednesday tweet, said the deal with Cincinnati-based Workhorse Group Inc will require the approval of the United Auto Workers union. However, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed caution. "This is a step, but we have a long way to go," DeWine told reporters. He also cited Workhorse's ongoing efforts to win a truck supply contract with the U.S. Postal Service as a key step. Loveland, Ohio-based Workhorse is a small electric truck and drone startup that has reported losses totaling almost $150 million since its launch in 2007, according to the company's financial documents. It had just $2.8 million in cash on hand at the end of March and reported first-quarter sales of $364,000. UAW OPPOSES DEAL Workhorse and a newly formed entity, in which Workhorse holds a minority stake, would initially employ "hundreds" at the plant building a commercial electric pickup truck, Workhorse officials said. As recently as 2016, GM employed 4,500 people at the plant and in March cut the final 1,500 jobs when production of the slow-selling Chevrolet Cruze ended. Story continues Of the 2,800 hourly employees affected by the plans to end production at the four U.S. plants, 1,350 have accepted transfers to other GM plants, the company said. At Lordstown, about half of those employed when production ended have transferred elsewhere. GM also said on Wednesday it will invest $700 million and add 450 jobs at its Toledo, Parma and Moraine, Ohio, operations. "Great news for Ohio," Trump tweeted. GM is not reversing the bulk of its restructuring efforts, including its decision to slash 15 percent of its salaried workforce and end vehicle production at three North American plants, including Lordstown. Last week, GM ended production at a plant near Baltimore that built transmissions. GM Chief Executive Mary Barra said Workhorse "could help preserve Lordstowns more than 50-year tradition of vehicle assembly work." The UAW said on Wednesday in a statement GM should add a new product at Lordstown "and continue operating it," adding it would continue with its federal lawsuit against GM to protect the contractual rights of its members. Workhorse officials said they intend to work with the union, but a previously unionized plant it bought from Navistar in 2013 now operates with a non-union work force, according to the company's annual report. The fate of the Lordstown plant has been a big focus of Trump's. He spoke to Barra earlier on Wednesday before the Detroit company announced its plans in Canada. Trump in June 2017 advised workers in nearby Youngstown, Ohio, that factory jobs were not leaving. "Don't move, don't sell your house," he said. It likely would take at least a year before the plant, which halted production in March, could reopen after a deal was reached, Ohio's governor, DeWine, said. "This potential agreement ... will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community," Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said in the GM statement, referring to electric vehicles. Workhorse shares jumped 190 percent to $2.45 on the news, while GM's shares were almost unchanged, down 5 cents at $38.48 in late afternoon. CANADIAN PM: 'GOOD NEWS' Separately, GM and the largest union representing Canada's auto workers have reached a deal to partly rescue an Ontario assembly plant by turning it into a parts-making facility, the automaker said in a statement. The transformation of GM's Oshawa site, which would also be used to conduct advanced vehicle testing, would save 300 jobs and have "the potential to grow and generate significant additional jobs in the coming years," GM said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the announcement "good news for our autoworkers." Canadian union Unifor, which had fiercely opposed the shuttering of the plant, had previously said the closure was contrary to a contract that stipulates there would be no plant closure. "There are 300 families that are better off than they would have been in December, said Unifor President Jerry Dias in Toronto. (Reporting by David Shepardson in Washington, Tyler Choi in Toronto and Allison Lampert in Montreal Additional reporting by Ben Klayman in Detroit and Dan Burns in New York Editing by Matthew Lewis) This combination photo shows President Moon Jae-in, left, and U.S. President Donald Trump, Tuesday. Yonhap By Kim Yoo-chul President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed ways on how to quickly resume talks aimed at dismantling North Korea's nuclear program by maintaining the current momentum for dialogue. Trump also supported Seoul's plan to send food products to the North, Cheong Wa Dae said. "President Moon had phone talks with U.S. President Donald Trump for 35 minutes from 10:00 p.m., Tuesday (KST) and briefed him on Seoul's position about North Korea's short-range projectiles including tactical-guided weapons over the weekend," Cheong Wa Dae spokesperson Ko Min-jung said in a statement. The senior presidential aide added the leaders also exchanged opinion about food shortage-related issues in North Korea. "Trump told Moon Seoul's plan to supply food products to North Korea comes in a timely fashion by adding the plan would be a positive measure," Ko said. She said the two leaders stayed together in responding North Korea's provocations in a "thoughtful manner." MANDAN, N.D. (AP) Authorities have charged four teenagers with multiple felonies in adult court for what they described at a riot last year at North Dakota's youth prison. The four are accused of assaulting staff while trying to escape on Jan. 28, 2018, from the Youth Correctional Center outside of Mandan. Five male workers in supervisory or security roles received medical attention for minor injuries and did not miss any work. Charges against the youths range from assault to terrorizing to escape. Elijah Barse, of Rapid City, South Dakota, appeared in court Tuesday and had bond set at $100,000, in part because he is considered a flight risk, The Bismarck Tribune reported. Court documents don't list an attorney for him. Gavin Johnson and Starson Buckles, both of Mandan, pleaded not guilty earlier and are set for trial July 10. Julian Wolf, of Bismarck, pleaded guilty in March and awaits sentencing. All of the boys are in their upper teens, according to court documents. They were residents of a housing unit for male juveniles considered high risk or high maintenance, according to the state Corrections Department. ___ This story has been corrected to show that Barse appeared in court Tuesday, not Monday, and that the incident happened in 2018, not 2019. ___ Information from: Bismarck Tribune, http://www.bismarcktribune.com Crypto merchant bank founder Mike Novogratz is forecasting regulatory scrutiny following the Binance bitcoin heist. | Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP By CCN.com: Bitcoin bull and the CEO of digital assets merchant bank Galaxy Digital, Michael Novogratz, has warned that the hacking suffered by the worlds largest cryptocurrency exchange Binance could invite more investor scrutiny. In Novogratzs view, this can only be bad for the industry. Binance Loses 7074 Bitcoins The crypto bull was reacting to Binances statement that the attackers had targeted the exchanges bitcoin hot wallet. The exchange lost about 2 percent of its total bitcoin holdings. 2 percent is a lot when your the worlds largest crypto exchange. No way to spin this as good. Will certainly bring more scrutiny from regulators. https://t.co/uqFH3tStCp Michael Novogratz (@novogratz) May 7, 2019 The security breach occurred on Tuesday. The entire 7,074 bitcoins stored on the exchanges BTC hot wallet were stolen. Binance, bitcoins 7074 bitcoins stolen from Binance | Source: Blockchain.com Using a variety of techniques including viruses and phishing, the hackers were able to obtain privileged information. This included user API keys and 2FA codes, per a statement released by the exchange. Read the full story on CCN.com. Photo: Anatolia Turkish Restaurant/Yelp Craving Middle Eastern food? Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top Middle Eastern spots around Nashville, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of the best spots to venture next time you're on the hunt. 1. Anatolia Turkish Restaurant Photo: Mable G./Yelp Topping the list is Anatolia Turkish Restaurant. Located at 48 White Bridge Road in Lions Head, the Turkish spot is the highest rated Middle Eastern restaurant in Nashville, boasting 4.5 stars out of 225 reviews on Yelp. "Oh, Anatolia, you've aged so very well," said Yelper Faith B. "Your service is attentive and gracious. The filo dough rolls are crispy and light and the sweet, light rosewater jelly is the perfect counterpoint to the salty cheese." 2. Epice Photo: Lauren P./Yelp Next up is Melrose's Epice, situated at 2902 12th Ave. South. With 4.5 stars out of 347 reviews on Yelp, the Lebanese spot has proven to be a local favorite. "We had a very enjoyable meal," said Yelper Paul R. "The waiter was knowledgeable about wine choices and menu selections. Food was tasty in adequate proportions. Fish of the day reigned supreme." 3. House of Kabob Photo: Shaun S./Yelp Woodbine's House of Kabob, located at 216 Thompson Lane, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the Middle Eastern, Persian/Iranian and Mediterranean spot 4.5 stars out of 204 reviews. "This place is absolutely amazing," said Yelper Dausha W. "Well not the place; but the food. It's tucked in a little corner of a plaza. I had the lamb shanks and couldn't finish one." 4. Butcher & Bee Photo: Amy L./Yelp Butcher & Bee, a New American, Southern and Middle Eastern spot in Historic Edgefield, is another go-to, with four stars out of 594 Yelp reviews. Head over to 902 Main St. to see for yourself. "I love this place," said Yelper Jenny S. "I've been here for dinner and brunch. The food is excellent, great service and I love the ambiance. This will be a place I return to often." Story continues 5. Erbil Kabob Photo: DJ L./Yelp Finally, there's Erbil Kabob, a Glencliff favorite with 4.5 stars out of 35 reviews. Stop by 3734 Nolensville Pike to hit up the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean spot next time you're looking to satisfy your cravings. "Excellent lamb shank and kabobs," said Yelper Melinda H. "The soups were especially tasty. And the bread is just perfect." This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. The Whitney Museum of American Art was founded by an artist, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, back in 1931 and since the following year has hosted a series of annuals and biennials meant to show off the countrys newest art. For the 79th installment of the Whitney Biennial, which opens May 17, curators Jane Panetta and Rujeko Hockley made some 300 studio visits before anointing 75 artists and collectives. We went into it very open-ended, Hockley says. We didnt have a set ideawe were really being led by the artists. Suffice it to say, the biennial will never satisfy everyone, but following are a handful of the entries, all first-timers, were most excited to see. Related stories Meet the Husband-And-Wife Duo That Will Design Chicago's Epic Obama Presidential Center How Gallerist David Kordansky Is Expanding the LA Art Scene in More Ways Than One Inside the Manhattan Townhouse That Doubles as a Contemporary Art Gallery Eddie Arroyo The storefronts and other buildings in Miamis Little Haiti depicted in Arroyos colorful but melancholy paintings are so specific that their addresses serve as titles. Hes really thinking about gentrification, changing neighborhoods and displacement as developers move in, Hockley says. Diane Simpson At 84, the suburban Chicago sculptor is the oldest artist in a biennial that skews young. She was on our ooh-yeah- lets-meet-her list, says Hockley. Shes a really singular artist. Her work is influenced by architecture, construction and building, and she makes all the work herself. Simpson scored prime real estate: Her site-specific installation will occupy the museums lobby gallery. Ilana Harris-Babou With the cheeky title Reparation Hardware and a dose of humor, the Brooklyn and Williamstown, Mass.based artists biennial video uses the studied rustic aesthetic popularized by Restoration Hardware, where she shot some of her footage, to consider our aspirations and how we process the past. At 28, Harris-Babou is the youngest artist in the show. Story continues Ellie Ga The New York-born Ga lives in Stockholm, where in recent years she became deeply concerned about the migrant crisis in Europe, leading her to volunteer in Greece. There she ended up shooting footage for a film installation about migration. The Mediterranean has been a crossing point for people for millennia, Hockley says. Though we frame it as something new, its not. John Edmonds Known for his thought-provoking photographs of heads concealed by do-rags or hoods, Edmonds investigates the inextricable link between images and racial identity. At the biennial, the Yale-educated, Brooklyn-based artist will show a continuation of his Tribe: Act One series, which combines portraits and still lifes of African masks. Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. By Tom Arnold LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Arif Naqvi, the founder of collapsed buyout firm Abraaj Group, was on Wednesday given another two days to raise a 15 million pound bail by a London court, a court official said. Naqvi was arrested in Britain last month and has been awaiting potential extradition to the United States where he faces charges of defrauding investors. On May 3, Westminster Magistrates Court granted Naqvi bail on condition that he pay 15 million pounds ($19.72 million) and an additional surety of 650,000 pounds, as well as surrendering his Pakistani passport, remaining under 24-hour curfew at an address given to the court and wearing an electronic tag, a prosecution spokesman said at the time. Wednesday's bail hearing was adjourned until May 10, the last date for which the bail money can be paid, the official said. Naqvi declined to comment, according to an email from his public relations firm. He has previously maintained his innocence. Under the U.S. charges, Naqvi is accused of inflating positions held by Abraaj in order to attract greater funds from them, causing them financial loss. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission alleges that Naqvi and his firm raised money for the Abraaj Growth Markets Health Fund, collecting more than $100 million (77 million) over three years from U.S.-based charitable organizations and other U.S. investors, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. A former managing partner of Abraaj, Sev Vettivetpillai, was previously released on conditional bail to appear again at Westminster Magistrates Court on June 12, a court official previously told Reuters. (Editing by Elaine Hardcastle) KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) Taliban fighters attacked the offices of a U.S.-based aid organization in the Afghan capital on Wednesday, setting off a huge explosion and battling security forces in an assault that lasted more than six hours and killed at least five people, the Interior Ministry said. Dozens of civilian vehicles and shops were either destroyed or damaged, and several buildings were also damaged. A large plume of smoke rose from the area and the sound of sporadic gunfire could be heard. The ministry's statement said four civilians and a police officer were killed and 24 others were wounded in the assault. It was not immediately clear if any foreigners were killed or wounded. The ministry's statement said the attack ended after all five insurgents were killed by Afghan forces. "Around 200 people were rescued from both buildings within the compound," it said. The attack targeted U.S.-based aid organization Counterpart International, which has offices near those of the Afghan attorney general, said Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi. The group's offices are in a compound with two five-story buildings. "We are incredibly saddened by this attack and are working as quickly as possible to account for our staff," the organization said in a statement on its website. "Their safety and security is our primary concern. Johan Bass, U.S. ambassador in Afghanistan, strongly condemned the attack on the NGO. He said the targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists and supports the Afghan people. The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan in a statement also condemned the insurgents for deliberately targeting a civilian aid organization. "Today's attack was particularly deplorable, hitting civilians helping Afghans," the statement said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the group attacked the organization because it was involved in "harmful Western activities" inside Afghanistan, without elaborating. Story continues Taliban insurgents stage near-daily attacks on Afghan forces, even as peace efforts have accelerated to find an end to the country's 17-year war. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani called for peace with the Taliban last week and promised to free 175 Taliban prisoners ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began Monday. The Taliban said they would continue their attacks during Ramadan, but would be "very careful of civilians during any operation." The insurgents have rejected past cease-fire proposals, saying U.S. and NATO troops must withdraw from the country first. The Taliban also refuse to negotiate directly with the government in Kabul, seeing it as a U.S. puppet. Boeing (BA) has been struggling to recover from two fatal crashes overseas involving its 737 Max 8 jets and win back the publics trust. The good news is consumers dont have to worry too much about how the plane manufacturers woes will affect airfare. One travel expert, Liana Corwin from Hopper Consumer Travel, said all the Boeing news will have little impact on summer travel and consumers shouldnt worry about it, especially for high demand routes like New York to Los Angeles. Were actually seeing ticket prices this summer at a historic low. Overall, its better flying conditions for consumers, Corwin told Yahoo Finance On the Move, adding that overall flight prices are down 7% in May compared to the same time two years ago. Less than 1% of the volume of seats flying were impacted by the grounding of the Boeing 737, she said, pointing to the Pittsburgh to Los Angeles route which was temporarily suspended by Southwest Airlines because its a low demand route. Really the only routes that we could possibly see price impact are the ones where routes have been temporarily suspended, Corwin said. Roughly 0.45% of daily domestic flights are impacted by the Max 8 suspension. Instead, ticket prices will be dictated by larger economic factors, Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 MAX aircraft are parked on the tarmac after being grounded, at the Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville, California on March 28, 2019. (Photo by Mark RALSTON / AFP) (Photo credit should read MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images) Corwin said factors such as oil prices matters most when it comes to airline ticket pricing. Short-term jet fuel prices fell just under 1% in May, according to Hoppers most recent data. So, what else should consumers be paying attention to? Low-cost airline capacity has been increasing, Corwin said, which is also good news for consumers when it comes to ticket prices. Every time we see low-cost carriers enter a market, we actually see the market rate adjust to drop a little bit lower than it previously was, Corwin said. Even when prices start to even out, they stay lower than before the low-cost carrier entered. Marabia Smith is a producer for Yahoo Finance On the Move. By Brendan Pierson and Joseph Ax NEW YORK (Reuters) - A former member of an alleged New York sex cult testified on Wednesday that the secretive group's leader forced her into an unwanted sexual encounter and took nude photos of her after he announced that he was her "grand master." The leader of the Nxivm group, Keith Raniere, 58, is charged with ordering numerous women to have sex with him, branding them with his initials and forcing them to adhere to a near-starvation diet. Sylvie, a 32-year-old British woman who testified under her given name only, is the first alleged victim to appear as a witness at Raniere's trial in U.S. District Court in Brooklyn. "I felt shame," a tearful Sylvie said, telling jurors she did not want to engage in sexual acts with him but felt she had no choice. "Now you're part of the inner circle," she recounted Raniere telling her after the encounter. Raniere has pleaded not guilty to charges including sex trafficking and child pornography, and his lawyer has argued that he never forced any women to act against their will. He faces life in prison if convicted. Sylvie told jurors how her involvement in Nxivm eventually led her to become a "slave" in a secret sorority within the group called DOS, which required her to recruit other women. She now lives in England with her husband, also a former Nxivm member, and testified under an immunity agreement with prosecutors. She painted a picture of an organization awash in misogyny. Nxivm's co-founder, Nancy Salzman, who has pleaded guilty, once instructed a women's class that "abuse" is a variable concept and that the age of consent is as young as 12 in some places, Sylvie testified. "We were taught that women were self-absorbed, narcissistic," she said. "I feel like in some ways that was the worst part of it for me." During cross-examination, defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo, showed Sylvie text messages she sent to Raniere that were full of affection, even after their sexual encounter. He also pressed her on whether she could have left Nxivm during her decade-plus as a member. Story continues "Yeah, no one held me there," she conceded, though she also said it did not feel like staying was entirely her decision, either. Nxivm, which started under another name in 1998 and is pronounced "Nexium," was based in Albany, New York, and operated numerous self-improvement centers across North and Central America. Prosecutors say Raniere established DOS in 2015, setting up a pyramid-like structure of female slaves and masters with himself alone at the top. Participants were forced to provide potential blackmail material, or "collateral," such as explicit videos or damaging information. Raniere is standing trial alone after five co-defendants, including Seagram heiress Clare Bronfman and former "Smallville" star Allison Mack, pleaded guilty to related crimes. (Reporting by Joseph Ax; editing by Scott Malone and Jonathan Oatis) The U.S.China trade spat is set to escalate this Friday, as Beijing has walked back some of its prior commitments to the Trump administration during negotiations between the two countries. In response, President Trump has promised to up the ante by increasing tariffs against Chinese products, a move sure to send a shiver down Beijings spine. For decades, the political establishment allowed Chinas unfair trade practices and hegemonic ambitions to go unchecked. But those failed policies of the past are no more. Trump is correct to stay resilient and hold Beijings feet to the fire. Trumps aggressive posture toward Beijing is consistent with his longtime concern that China poses a serious threat to American global dominance. There are people who wish I wouldnt refer to China as our enemy, Trump noted in his 2015 book Crippled America. But thats exactly what they are. This tough-on-China mantra is in stark contrast to Trumps Democratic opponents on the 2020 campaign trail. At a recent political rally, Democratic frontrunner and former vice president Joe Biden negged those who consider China to be a serious geopolitical threat to the U.S. China is going to eat our lunch? Come on, man! noted Biden said to the crowd. Guess what, theyre not competition for us. As out of touch as Bidens statements may sound, his positions are fairly consistent with Washingtons old consensus on China. Repeatedly, political elites have argued that through trade and integration into the U.S. economic order, China would democratize, liberalize, and open for business. It is clear that these long-held assumptions havent panned out. Rather than liberalize as its economy vastly expanded thanks to trade with the West, China has become more repressive and despotic and its markets have remained closed. Nowhere is the fallacy better illustrated in than Beijings crackdown on its religious minorities, which the Communist Party sees as a legitimate threat to its hold on political power. Arrests of Christians in China skyrocketed from 3,700 in 2017 to 100,000 in 2018. Churches are frequently destroyed by the government, and the Communist Party has taken a hand in rewriting certain passages of the Bible it deems unacceptable. Persecution is likely to worsen as Chinas Christian population continues to grow to an estimated 250 million believers by 2030. Story continues Facing even more horrendous circumstances are Chinas Uyghurs, a Muslim minority group located largely in Xinjiang province. Approximately 1 million Uyghurs are being detained in state-run labor camps, according to a report from the United Nations. The prisoners are forced to work for little to no pay in brutal conditions while being constantly harassed and indoctrinated. To reporters touring one such facility, a group of imprisoned Uyghurs was forced to sing If Youre Happy and You Know It, Clap Your Hands. As Chinas grip has tightened at home, its influence abroad has expanded. In accordance with President Xi Jinpings great rejuvenation of the country, China has undergone a massive military buildup while applying pressure on its former vassal states. Chinese officials have announced their intention to confront U.S. military assets across Asia while flexing its muscles against old rivals. Beijing hopes to use its newfound military strength to coerce its former vassals back into its sphere of influence. During a meeting with other Asian nations in 2010, China made that intention crystal clear. China is a big country and other countries are small countries, and thats just a fact, Chinas former foreign minister noted, looking directly at Singapores top foreign diplomat. Considering the serious upper hand that U.S. policymakers have given to China, did American businesses and workers at least come out ahead too? Not exactly. American companies still face serious challenges in gaining access to Chinese markets and conducting business in China. Beijing deploys tariffs and heavy subsidies to boost state-owned enterprises to beat out American firms. It uses extensive red tape and technology transfers against American businesses to upend fair competition. And one cant forget Rust Belt communities that have seen massive numbers of manufacturing jobs move to China. Given these challenges, it is imperative that Trump stays the course. Biden and company are still living in the same alternative reality that allowed Beijing to capitalize on American weakness to a point of no return. Trump is restoring balance to the relationship and recognizes the serious threat that China poses to the U.S.-led order. Trump deserves credit for avoiding the mistakes of his predecessors and pushing back against China for its malign activities and empty promises. More from National Review By Hereward Holland NAIROBI, May 8 (Reuters) - South Sudan has signed a contract with a U.S. lobbying firm, after canceling an earlier deal with the same company that drew criticism from rights groups over its aims, documents showed. Lobbying including trying to lift U.S. sanctions and avoid the establishment of a court to try war crimes was part of the brief in the original $3.7 million, two-year contract the government signed with California-based Gainful Solutions on April 2. The new document was signed on May 3 and published on the U.S. Justice Department website. It did not specify a fee. Its stated aims are to improve economic and political relations between Juba and Washington, but regional observers were skeptical that the essence of the contract had changed. "I'm doubtful the revised contract means a substantive change to the lobbying deal," Klem Ryan, former coordinator of the UN Security Council Panel of Experts for South Sudan, told Reuters. "The rewording seems to be a response to the negative publicity that both the South Sudanese government and those associated with Gainful Solutions received, but not a rejection of the lobbying efforts." South Sudan broke away from Sudan in 2011 and collapsed into ethnically-charged civil war two years later, pitching fighters loyal to President Salva Kiir against those of his former deputy Riek Machar. Rights groups accused the government of paying to avoid justice. The new contract was "a slap in the face to victims of the horrific crimes that have been committed in South Sudan," said Elise Keppler, associate director of U.S.-based Human Rights Watch. The government did not respond to requests for comment on the old contract or the new one. Gainful Solutions, which lists former U.S. ambassador Michael Ranneberger as a partner, said "the scope of work and priorities" of the government were not being accurately addressed in the original contract. Washington has slapped sanctions on individual South Sudanese military and political figures, and imposed an arms embargo in January. The U.S. Justice Department requires lobbyists acting in the United States on behalf of foreign agents to register the relationship. (Editing by Katharine Houreld and John Stonestreet) WASHINGTON (AP) TV pitches for prescription drugs will soon include the price, giving consumers more information upfront as they make medication choices at a time when new drugs can carry anxiety-inducing prices. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said Wednesday the Trump administration has finalized regulations requiring drug companies to disclose list prices of medications costing more than $35 for a month's supply. "What I say to the companies is if you think the cost of your drug will scare people from buying your drugs, then lower your prices," Azar said. "Transparency for American patients is here." In a tweet, President Donald Trump celebrated the announcement, saying: "Historic transparency for American patients is here. If drug companies are ashamed of those prices_lower them!" Drug companies responded that adding prices to their commercials could unintentionally harm patients. "We are concerned that the administration's rule requiring list prices in direct-to-consumer television advertising could be confusing for patients and may discourage them from seeking needed medical care," said the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, the main trade group. But one major firm Johnson & Johnson, based in New Brunswick, New Jersey has already started disclosing the cost of its blood thinner Xarelto in TV advertising. And polls indicate many patients are not taking their medications as prescribed because of cost. Drug pricing details are expected to appear in text toward the end of commercials, when potential side effects are disclosed. TV viewers should notice the change later this year, perhaps as early as the summer. The government is hoping that patients armed with prices will start discussing affordability with their doctors, and gradually that will put pressure on drugmakers to keep costs of brand-name drugs in check. Pricing disclosure was part of a multilevel blueprint President Donald Trump announced last year to try to lower prescription drug costs . Story continues Democrats say it still won't force drugmakers to lower what they charge, and they want Medicare to negotiate on behalf of consumers. Leigh Purvis, a pharma expert with AARP's research division, said disclosure will help dispel a "cloak of darkness" around prices and encourage more informed discussions between patients and their doctors. But she cautioned against expecting too much. "The overall idea of reducing drug prices is something for which there is no silver bullet," said Purvis. "This is just one step, one tool in what will have to be a very big arsenal." Other ideas from the Trump administration include regulations affecting Medicare and legislative proposals in Congress. With the cost of medicines a top concern for voters, Trump and lawmakers of both major political parties want accomplishments they can point to before the 2020 elections. Drugmakers also complained that the price reveal will infringe on their First Amendment free speech rights by forcing them to disclose prices. It's unclear if that will prompt a court challenge, but Azar points out that the government has for decades required carmakers to post their sticker prices on vehicles. "Prices of automobiles are vastly less important to your health and affordability than drugs," he said. According to the latest government figures, the 10 most commonly advertised drugs have prices ranging from $488 to $16,938 per month or for a usual course of therapy. The disclosure requirement will not apply to print or radio ads for the foreseeable future. It encompasses all brand name drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid, which is nearly all. In a twist, enforcement of the rule will rely on drug companies suing each other over violations under a longstanding federal law that governs unfair trade practices. "There are very large legal practices built on pharma companies suing each other," Azar said, calling it a "quite effective mechanism." Most people count on lower-cost generic drugs to manage their health problems, but the advent of highly effective and extremely expensive medications for once-fatal or intractable diseases has put consumers on edge. Some genetic and cellular-based treatments can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, straining on the budgets of insurers and government programs. A recent poll from the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation found that 1 in 3 Americans said they haven't taken medications as prescribed because of costs. People who take four or more medications, those who spend $100 a month or more on meds, patients in fair to poor health and middle-aged adults are more likely to report affordability problems. Although most patients do not pay the full list prices that will be included in ads, experts say those are still important. Patient copays are often based on list prices. And many people who have high-deductible insurance plans pay list prices because their insurance doesn't start covering until patients spend several thousand dollars of their own money. In other economically advanced countries, governments negotiate drug prices to keep medications more affordable for patients. But the U.S. has held back from government-set prices. Azar, who is leading Trump's efforts on prescription drugs, is a former drug company executive. He held senior posts with Indianapolis-based insulin maker Eli Lilly and Co. after an earlier stint in government service during the George W. Bush administration. The regulations will take effect 60 days after they're published in the Federal Register. WASHINGTON The House Judiciary Committee voting to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress on Wednesday is the first step of many Democrats are willing to take as they continue investigating the Trump administration. Democrats say they have been pushed to consider drastic measures, even impeachment and jailing individuals, in light of President Donald Trump's unwillingness to cooperate with congressional investigations and attempting to shut down requests for everything from his tax returns to former and current aides appearing before Congress to answer questions. But now, Democrats are offering a glimpse at their roadmap to navigating these barriers and where this leaves the House when it comes to both their investigations and the possibility of impeaching the president. "There is a big picture here," House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., said Wednesday morning. "And the big picture is our democracy, our Constitution, the ability of the American people to know what its executive department is doing. That's the big picture and we're gonna focus on that big picture." The debate over whether Barr should be held in contempt moves to the House for a full vote. Hoyer said it has not been decided whether that vote will happen before Friday. Strategy and options to coerce cooperation While Wednesday's vote was an escalation of tensions between the executive and legislative branch, it could just be the start of a number of contempt proceedings. Hoyer said Wednesday morning that Democrats were not looking at each denial as individual items. He said the party was viewing it in a "holistic" way, working with each of the six committees investigating Trump and hoping to display "the picture of, perhaps, the greatest cover-up of any president in American history." Barr, he said, was just was one piece of that picture. "You ask our strategy," Hoyer told reporters when asked about Barr and next steps in the House, "It's the cover-up that we're gonna be focused on and there will be individual items, which will be proof of that cover-up." Story continues The latest: In rare move, House panel votes to hold AG Barr in contempt over Mueller report What is contempt?: What is that and can Congress use it to coerce cooperation? Is contempt used a lot?:Congress has this power in its arsenal but doesn't use it much. Moving forward, Democrats said there were a number of options on the table. House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff, D-Calif., said Wednesday "really raises the stakes and makes a constitutional crisis much more likely." He outlined several options that could be considered: Withholding pay to those who don't comply. Congress is tasked with overseeing and allocating money for federal agencies and Schiff said Wednesday that lawmakers might be forced to look at the budget process in order to force compliance by some federal agencies. On Tuesday, House Oversight Committee Chairmen Elijah Cummings threatened to withhold salaries of those at the Interior Department who have blocked interviews with employees about Secretary David Bernhardt. Reviving inherent contempt. This process, which hasn't been used since the 1930s, basically allows Congress to jail an individual if that person does not comply with a congressional request. Congress deploys its Sergeant-At-Arms to take the person into custody until the person complies or that particular Congress ends. It's one of three types of contempt proceedings Congress can elect to use. The others are criminal and civil. Impeachment. While Democrats have been talking about impeachment for weeks, the Trump administration's refusal to cooperate on oversight investigation has reinvigorated these discussions. "The more the president acts in an anti-Constitutional fashion, the more likely we have a Constitutional collision," Schiff said. The legal fight just beginning The last time Congress held someone in contempt was in 2014 after IRS official Lois Lerner invoked her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination during a congressional hearing. Congress voted in May of that year to charge Lerner with criminal contempt. A year later, the Justice Department declined to file any charges against Lerner. A similar episode played out when Congress voted in June 2012 to charge then-Attorney General Eric Holder with criminal contempt, which the Justice Department also declined to prosecute. The contempt charge led to a drawn-out lawsuit where Congress has spent years attempting to gain access to documents. What you need to know: Key moments from the House Judiciary hearing to hold Attorney General Barr in contempt Democrats on Wednesday, though, were not scared off by a lengthy court fight, arguing that their battle was to prevent the Trump administration from setting a precedent that agencies, individuals and future presidents can refuse congressional requests. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas, said she hoped today's contempt vote served as a message to the administration that Democrats were "not ceasing, not stopping" and only going to continue to dig in their heels in. Lee, a member of the House Judiciary Committee, said that if the president wanted to continue to deny their requests, "we want him to say this over and over again," noting that it would put it on display for those across the U.S. "The American people need to understand that this comes right to their front door, that if the president can block the Congress from finding out the truth and serving the American people and breaching the Constitution, then we are not the democracy we say we are," she added. Rep. David Cicilline, D-R.I., chair of the Democratic Policy & Communications Committee and a member of the House Judiciary Committee, said the Trump administration was stonewalling Congress and the number of blockades was adding up. "We have a number of tools available to us to try to compel that compliance," he warned. "But I do think as people see the president and members and administration continuing this effort to obstruct the investigation, to impede the fact-finding process, to prevent us from getting to the truth, the sentiment that this is unacceptable continues to grow." Contributing: Eliza Collins This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'There is a big picture here': Democrats offer roadmap on Barr, Trump and what comes next One of the perks of an IPO, its often said, is all the free publicity it can bring. In the case Uber, however, the extra attention ahead of its long-awaited IPO may not be so positive. Drivers working for Uber, Lyft and other ride-sharing apps are organizing strikes in the U.S. and the U.K. on Wednesday, one day before Ubers planned initial public offering. The strikes represent a network of local labor organizations arranging action in a number of cities. In New York, participating drivers logged off Uber, Lyft, Via, and Juno apps between the rush hours of 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. Organizers then planned to gather on the 59th Street and Brooklyn bridges holding banners and handing out leaflets. The days activities culminate in a 1 p.m. rally in front of Ubers offices in Long Island City. STRIKE STRIKE STRIKE! We are calling on all people of good conscience in NYC to log off of the apps in 7 AM to 9 AM Wednesday, May 8th to support our strike. Don't use Uber, don't use Lyft. Log off of all the apps! Support app drivers demanding job security and livable incomes! NY Taxi Workers (@NYTWA) May 3, 2019 In Los Angeles, participating ride-sharing drivers will log off their apps at midnight and stay off for 24 hours. At noon, drivers have scheduled a rally in a park near Los Angeles International Airport, bookended by pickets at the airports departure gate. WERE OFFICIALLY CALLING FOR A 24 HR STRIKE AT LAX ON MAY 8TH. APPS OFF FROM MIDNIGHT TO MIDNIGHT. This will be in concert with protests in other cities in solidarity with @_drivers_united LA strike. #StrikeUberLyft #May8thLAXStrike #NationalDayOfAction pic.twitter.com/eG7iC1DNka Rideshare Drivers United - LA (@_drivers_united) April 20, 2019 In San Francisco, Gig Workers Rising is organizing a protest in front of Ubers headquarters. Other actions are planned in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. Story continues More info on the Uber protest in San Francisco on Wednesday at 12 noon. Non drivers most welcome. And remember: DON'T USER UBER ON WEDNESDAY. SPREAD THE WORD. https://t.co/njtbqNHtg1 pic.twitter.com/F97HPBonbA Gig Workers Rising (@GigWorkersRise) May 5, 2019 Across the Atlantic Ocean, Uber drivers who are members of the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain staged a boycott of Ubers app between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. in London, Birmingham, Nottingham and Glasgow, the Independent said. The drivers are calling for a number of measures, including a living wage that takes into account the costs of maintaining vehicle upkeep, benefits that are routine for full-time employees and not contractors, and the end of unfair deactivations that can cause drivers to lose their livelihoods. Lyft drivers staged a similar strike when the company went public in late March, although the action was limited to a few California cities. In fact, when Lyft announced surprisingly strong revenue growth this week, its executives explained that the attention its IPO generated helped bring in new riders. If the effect of the Lyft IPO strike was somewhat muted, the Uber strike may be felt more keenly. Tensions between drivers and ride-sharing platforms have simmered for years, leading New Yorks Taxi and Limousine Commission to enact late last year a minimum wage for drivers of $17.22 per hour after fees and taxes. But Lyfts IPO along with Ubers imminent offering are bringing those tensions to a full boil. Uber and Lyft are under more pressure than ever to cut costs in hopes of becoming profitable. Meanwhile, the stock-based compensation paid to the companies full-time workers is leaving them flush with cash as drivers eke out a living wage. During the quarter when Lyft went public, the stock-based compensation it recorded surged to nearly $1 billion. As a result, Lyfts loss ballooned nearly five times over to $1.1 billion in the same period. Ubers much larger IPO will likely lead the company to record a similar largesse to many of its workers, illustrating both the enriching power of the capital markets and the yawning gap between the haves and the have-nots in the gig economy. Wednesdays strikes will be the drivers chance to plead their case for more, rather than less, equality for all those who have helped build Ubers success. For their part, the ride-sharing companies position themselves as their drivers ally, not their enemy. Drivers are at the heart of our servicewe cant succeed without them, an Uber spokesperson said in a statement. Whether its more consistent earnings, stronger insurance protections or fully-funded four-year degrees for drivers or their families, well continue working to improve the experience for and with drivers. Lyft drivers hourly earnings have increased over the last two years, and they have earned more than $10 billion on the Lyft platform, a Lyft spokesperson told Fortune. Over 75 percent drive less than 10 hours a week to supplement their existing jobs. On average, Lyft drivers earn over $20 per hour. We know that access to flexible, extra income makes a big difference for millions of people, and were constantly working to improve how we can best serve our driver community. For Rideshare Drivers Unlimited, a group organizing the Los Angeles protest, Lyft and Uber may as well be describing an alternative universe. At the heart of its grievance against Uber is the companys move in March to cut driver compensation to 60 cents a mile from 80 cents. That may be a matter of a couple of dimes to Uber, but the group says the impact on drivers can be life altering. To make its point, Rideshare Drivers United points to James Hicks, a three-year Uber veteran who was taking out payday loans to afford his familys $2,300 monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment. We are treading water so that we dont drown, Hicks said. With Ubers cuts this month, we had to bite the bullet. We moved across the hall into a one bedroom for $1,900, Hicks said, which is what our two-bedroom used to cost. The Trump administration can continue forcing Central American asylum seekers to return to Mexico while their cases are decided following a ruling from a federal appeals court on Tuesday. President Donald Trump has repeatedly bashed the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for what he has described as flawed and politically-motivated rulings striking down his different efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement. "It's a disgrace," he said last year. But on Tuesday, a three-judge panel of that court handed Trump a major, if temporary, win in his quest to halt the record-setting flow of migrants pouring across the southern border. The panel reversed a decision by a San Francisco judge that would have blocked the administration's Migration Protection Protocols, which launched in January in California and has been slowly rolled out along the rest of the border. U.S. District Judge Richard Seeborg ruled in April that the new policy was not properly implemented and violated both U.S. laws and international treaties the U.S. is party to that dictate the proper treatment of refugees. Seeborg wrote that sending people who are already vulnerable into Mexican border towns "where they face undue risk to their lives and freedom." But the 9th Circuit found that the Mexican government can be entrusted to care for the asylum seekers as they wait for their U.S. immigration court hearings. "The plaintiffs fear substantial injury upon return to Mexico, but the likelihood of harm is reduced somewhat by the Mexican government's commitment to honor its international law obligations and to grant humanitarian status and work permits to individuals returned under MPP," the panel wrote. Immigration and civil rights groups who filed the lawsuit on behalf of 11 Central American migrants said Mexico cannot be entrusted with such a massive task, given that the small number of shelters operating in Mexican border towns are already overwhelmed. Story continues "Asylum seekers have already been killed and harmed while in Tijuana," said Archi Pyati, the chief of policy for the Tahirih Justice Center, one of the groups that filed the lawsuit. "It is shocking that the government, knowing these risks, continues to push for this course of action." In this Tuesday, March 19, 2019 file photo, a van carrying asylum seekers from the border is escorted by security personnel as it arrives at immigration court, in San Diego. A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday, May 7, 2019, that the Trump administration can force asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for immigration court hearings while the policy is challenged in court, handing the president a major victory, even if it proves temporary. The appeals court was only weighing whether the policy, unofficially known as Remain in Mexico, can proceed as the larger legal case over its legality is settled by the courts. The case must still be considered on its merits and could end up before the Supreme Court. The Trump administration has been blocked from implementing several other policies to limit or cut off asylum. But for now, the administration can forge ahead with the Remain in Mexico plan. Since the policy went into effect on January 29 at the San Ysidro Port of Entry that connects San Diego with Tijuana, the U.S. has sent back 3,267 Central American asylum seekers, Mexico's immigration agency said Monday. The policy slowly expanded to Calexico, Calif., and El Paso, Texas, and Homeland Security officials say it will continue expanding to other ports in the months to come. Under the policy, asylum seekers arrive in the U.S. and request asylum. If they are deemed to have a "credible fear" of returning to their home country, their asylum application is accepted and they must return to Mexico. When they have hearings scheduled in U.S. immigration court, they report to a border crossing and the U.S. government provides transportation to court and they're returned back to Mexico when the hearing is concluded. The policy was introduced to deal with the ever-growing number of asylum-seeking families from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. In March, 53,077 members of family units illegally crossed the border, an all-time high, with most requesting asylum. Acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan has described that flood as a humanitarian and security crisis, the result of weak U.S. immigration laws that need to be fixed by Congress. This week, the president's adviser and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is expected to unveil a broad immigration reform bill he has been working on to close the "loopholes" that have allowed most asylum-seeking families to be released into the U.S. as they wait months, or even years, for their day in immigration court. But as Congress has struggled to forge any kind of immigration compromise, the Trump administration is left conducting its unilateral enforcement actions and constantly defending them in court. And in the case of the Remain in Mexico plan, lawyers who are challenging the policy feel they will ultimately win out. "Two of the three judges that heard this request found that there are serious legal problems with what the government is doing, so there is good reason to believe that ultimately this policy will be put to a halt," said Omar Jadwat, director of the ACLUs Immigrants Rights Project, which is part of the lawsuit. Contributing: The Associated Press. Read even more: Download the USA TODAY app This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Appeals court rules Trump administration can make asylum seekers wait in Mexico for now OSLO (Reuters) - A prominent Arab pro-democracy campaigner living in political asylum in Norway said he had been temporarily moved to a secure location by Norwegian police last month after a tip-off about a possible threat against him from Saudi Arabia. Iyad el-Baghdadi is a Palestinian human rights campaigner and writer who won prominence during the 2011 Arab uprisings and has written critically of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He has lived in Oslo since 2015. On April 25, Norwegian security services moved him for a period of time to a secure location because of a threat against his person, Baghdadi told Norwegian public broadcaster NRK. "They asked me to go with them. They said they have a secure location prepared. They have received information from a partner intelligence agency indicating that I am the target of a threat," Baghdadi told NRK late on Tuesday. "It is very clear to me that it is a Saudi threat ... We kind of brainstormed 6-7 reasons that put me on their crosshairs," he said, without elaborating. The Norwegian security police service declined to comment. The Saudi embassy in Oslo was not immediately available for comment. Saudi Arabia's government communications office did not respond to a request for comment. The NRK and Britain's Guardian newspaper said that the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency had alerted Norway to the possible threat against Baghdadi. The CIA declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. The Norwegian justice ministry, which is in charge of the security services, and the foreign ministry also declined to comment. Baghdadi did not respond to requests for comment. Shortly after the NRK broadcast, he tweeted: "It is not clear at this time what the nature of the threat was, and there's no indication that it had translated into a specific plot." Saudi Arabia has come under increasing global scrutiny over its human rights record since the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi last year inside the kingdom's Istanbul consulate and the detention of around a dozen women's rights activists. Story continues A bipartisan chorus of U.S. lawmakers has called on the White House to harden its stance toward Saudi Arabia after Khashoggi, a critic of Prince Mohammed, was killed by Saudi agents in a move widely seen as an attempt to stifle dissent. A CIA assessment has blamed Prince Mohammed for ordering the killing, which Saudi officials deny. In a subsequent interview with Al Jazeera, Baghdadi said a large amount of his work over the past two years had focused on the rights situation in Saudi Arabia, particularly after Khashoggi's killing. He said the Norwegian authorities had told him they would provide him with police protection in Oslo but had asked him not to travel. (Reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis and Lefteris Karagiannopoulos in Oslo, Stephen Kalin in Riyadh, Jonathan Landay in Washington, writing by Gwladys Fouche, Editing by William Maclean) By Margarita Antidze TBILISI, May 8 (Reuters) - Armenia's imprisoned former president Robert Kocharyan told Reuters powerful opposition forces were coming together to challenge the ex-Soviet state's new leadership soon, and that he hoped to be among them. Kocharyan, who was president from 1998 to 2008, was arrested last year, charged with acting unlawfully by introducing state of emergency in March 2008, following a disputed election. At least ten people were killed in clashes between police and protesters. The 64-year-old ex-president was arrested in July after peaceful protests drove his former ally and successor, Serzh Sarksyan, from power and propelled opposition leader Nikol Pashinyan into the prime minister's job in May, last year. Critics have accused Kocharyan and his former allies of cracking down on democracy, corruption and mismanagement during their time in power Armenia, a country that depends heavily on Russian aid and investment. They have denied those allegations. Writing from the detention center where he is being held, Kocharyan told Reuters the charges against him were politically motivated, and accused Pashinyan's government of selectively applying the law to keep him in jail. Pashinyan bolstered his authority in Armenia as his political bloc won early parliamentary elections in December last year. The My Step Alliance, which includes Pashinyan's Civil Contract Party, won 70.4 percent of the vote. Kocharyan said that new politicians and opposition parties were emerging in Armenia. "This process will certainly lead to the creation of a powerful political force capable of challenging the authorities very soon," he said in written answers to questions sent by Reuters earlier this week. Asked if he would be personally involved in the emerging opposition, he replied: "Yes, of course." But he did not give details about what form that involvement could take. Looking back at the mass protests last year that led to power change in the South Caucasus country of about 3 million people, Kocharyan said they were caused by "accumulated discontent in the society and desire for change," but were not a revolution. Story continues "I would not call it a revolution as fundamentally nothing has changed in the country, except for the appearance of a big share of aggression in the society, and populism and dilettantism in the leadership," he said in written answers to questions the Reuters had sent to him. Kocharyan also defended the decisions he took during the 2008 protests. "Order was restored only after the introduction of the state of emergency and thanks to it," he said. "Not doing that would have meant official inaction on the part of the president." (Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore) By Margarita Antidze TBILISI (Reuters) - Armenia's imprisoned former president Robert Kocharyan told Reuters powerful opposition forces were coming together to challenge the ex-Soviet state's new leadership soon, and that he hoped to be among them. Kocharyan, who was president from 1998 to 2008, was arrested last year, charged with acting unlawfully by introducing state of emergency in March 2008, following a disputed election. At least ten people were killed in clashes between police and protesters. The 64-year-old ex-president was arrested in July after peaceful protests drove his former ally and successor, Serzh Sarksyan, from power and propelled opposition leader Nikol Pashinyan into the prime minister's job in May, last year. Critics have accused Kocharyan and his former allies of cracking down on democracy, corruption and mismanagement during their time in power Armenia, a country that depends heavily on Russian aid and investment. They have denied those allegations. Writing from the detention center where he is being held, Kocharyan told Reuters the charges against him were politically motivated, and accused Pashinyan's government of selectively applying the law to keep him in jail. Pashinyan bolstered his authority in Armenia as his political bloc won early parliamentary elections in December last year. The My Step Alliance, which includes Pashinyan's Civil Contract Party, won 70.4 percent of the vote. Kocharyan said that new politicians and opposition parties were emerging in Armenia. "This process will certainly lead to the creation of a powerful political force capable of challenging the authorities very soon," he said in written answers to questions sent by Reuters earlier this week. Asked if he would be personally involved in the emerging opposition, he replied: "Yes, of course." But he did not give details about what form that involvement could take. Looking back at the mass protests last year that led to power change in the South Caucasus country of about 3 million people, Kocharyan said they were caused by "accumulated discontent in the society and desire for change", but were not a revolution. "I would not call it a revolution as fundamentally nothing has changed in the country, except for the appearance of a big share of aggression in the society, and populism and dilettantism in the leadership," he said in written answers to questions the Reuters had sent to him. Kocharyan also defended the decisions he took during the 2008 protests. "Order was restored only after the introduction of the state of emergency and thanks to it," he said. "Not doing that would have meant official inaction on the part of the president." (Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore) Islamabad (AFP) - For the majority of Asia Bibi's life she lived in obscurity like many of Pakistan's downtrodden Christian minority, until a blasphemy allegation saw her sentenced to death in a case that divided the nation. She was thrust into the spotlight in deeply conservative Muslim Pakistan, where even unsubstantiated accusations of disrespecting Islam can provoke death at the hands of mobs. On Wednesday a government source confirmed she had finally left the country "of her own free will", marking the latest chapter in a decade-long saga. The allegations against Bibi date back to 2009, when Muslim field labourers who were working alongside refused to share water with her because she was Christian. An argument broke out and a Muslim woman later went to a local cleric and accused Bibi of committing blasphemy against the Prophet Mohammed -- a charge punishable by death under legislation that rights groups say is routinely abused to target religious minorities and settle personal scores. Bibi was convicted and sentenced to hang in 2010, despite her advocates maintaining her innocence and insisting the argument was a personal dispute. The illiterate, Christian mother spent the next eight years behind bars, often in a cramped windowless cell during periods of solitary confinement. Her husband Ashiq Mesih told AFP last year that the family was struggling to cope with the fallout of the case. "Living in Pakistan for us is very difficult. We don't go out of our home and if we go, we come out very carefully," he said. Their daughters Esham and Esha, who is mentally and physically disabled, were forced to live away from their father for some time over safety fears. It is believed Bibi's daughters have already fled to Canada. Although it was not confirmed when Bibi may have left or where she may have gone, her lawyer, Saif ul Mulook, said he understood from "sources" that she was also in Canada. Story continues Nothing has been confirmed officially by Islamabad and the Canadian government has given no information on Bibi's case. - 'Justice prevailed' - Bibi's plight drew the attention of international rights groups and quickly evolved into the most high-profile case in the country, with Pope Benedict XVI calling for her release in 2010. Her case was also championed by liberal provincial governor Salmaan Taseer, who spoke out in support of Bibi and against intimidation by religious hardliners in repeated television appearances. Taseer was later gunned down in broad daylight in Islamabad in 2011 by one of his own bodyguards who cited the governor's position on reforming the country's blasphemy laws as the motive. The state hanged his assassin Mumtaz Qadri in 2016 in a Supreme Court decision that was hailed by progressives, but brought hardliners into the streets supporting Qadri and demanding Bibi's death. For years, Bibi, who has asthma, continued to languish in prison even after her appeal reached the Supreme Court in 2014. However in a landmark ruling last year, Pakistan's chief justice said her conviction had been "reversed". Leading rights groups welcomed the decision even as religious extremists launched protests across the country and swarmed the streets in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, closing down key roads. Bibi was set for immediate release following the Supreme Court's ruling. But in a deal to ease the unrest a review of the ruling was allowed. The Supreme Court rejected the challenge against its decision in January this year, finally lifting the last legal hurdle against her. However activists have long warned that freedom in Pakistan for Bibi would likely mean a life under threat by hardliners who have long called for her death. Prior to her departure she was believed to have been held in protective custody since her acquittal. Even as she faced an uncertain future, Bibi told AFP last year that the acquittal was an answered prayer. "I had dreamed that the walls of the prison are falling apart," Bibi told AFP by phone at the time. "I can't believe it." Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! In 2015 Nick Beighton was appointed CEO of ASOS Plc (LON:ASC). This report will, first, examine the CEO compensation levels in comparison to CEO compensation at companies of similar size. After that, we will consider the growth in the business. And finally - as a second measure of performance - we will look at the returns shareholders have received over the last few years. The aim of all this is to consider the appropriateness of CEO pay levels. See our latest analysis for ASOS How Does Nick Beighton's Compensation Compare With Similar Sized Companies? At the time of writing our data says that ASOS Plc has a market cap of UK3.3b, and is paying total annual CEO compensation of UK2.9m. (This number is for the twelve months until August 2018). While we always look at total compensation first, we note that the salary component is less, at UK565k. We examined companies with market caps from UK1.5b to UK4.9b, and discovered that the median CEO total compensation of that group was UK1.9m. Thus we can conclude that Nick Beighton receives more in total compensation than the median of a group of companies in the same market, and of similar size to ASOS Plc. However, this doesn't necessarily mean the pay is too high. We can better assess whether the pay is overly generous by looking into the underlying business performance. You can see a visual representation of the CEO compensation at ASOS, below. AIM:ASC CEO Compensation, May 8th 2019 Is ASOS Plc Growing? ASOS Plc has increased its earnings per share (EPS) by an average of 24% a year, over the last three years (using a line of best fit). Its revenue is up 19% over last year. Overall this is a positive result for shareholders, showing that the company has improved in recent years. It's also good to see decent revenue growth in the last year, suggesting the business is healthy and growing. It could be important to check this free visual depiction of what analysts expect for the future. Story continues Has ASOS Plc Been A Good Investment? ASOS Plc has generated a total shareholder return of 2.1% over three years, so most shareholders wouldn't be too disappointed. But they probably don't want to see the CEO paid more than is normal for companies around the same size. In Summary... We examined the amount ASOS Plc pays its CEO, and compared it to the amount paid by similar sized companies. As discussed above, we discovered that the company pays more than the median of that group. Importantly, though, the company has impressed with its earnings per share growth, over three years. We also think investors are doing ok, over the same time period. While it may be worth researching further, we don't see a problem with the CEO pay, given the good EPS growth. If you think CEO compensation levels are interesting you will probably really like this free visualization of insider trading at ASOS. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. By Pushkala Aripaka and Ludwig Burger (Reuters) - An experimental breast cancer drug being developed by British drugmaker AstraZeneca and Japan's Daiichi Sankyo's met its main goal in a mid-stage study, bolstering their position in a highly competitive oncology market. AstraZeneca agreed in March agreed to pay up to $6.9 billion to work with Daiichi on the drug known as trastuzumab deruxtecan, in a direct challenge to Roche. The treatment, also known as DS-8201, demonstrated a clinically meaningful response in patients who have metastatic breast cancer and a type of protein on the surface of cancer cells, the two companies said on Wednesday. It targets the HER2 protein, a major trigger of uncontrolled cell growth in about 20 percent of breast cancers. It is an area where Roche, the world's biggest cancer drug maker, has been a pioneer with its best-seller Herceptin. "While positive data will have been expected given the phase I data, this is good news for (AstraZeneca) as it adds validation to a major transaction that initially disappointed the market," Liberum analyst Alistair Campbell said in a note. Analysts and investors had voiced scepticism over the price tag of the deal funded in part by the proceeds of a $3.5 billion share issue. In the Phase II study, trastuzumab deruxtecan was evaluated in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer that could no longer be helped with Roche's Kadcyla, AstraZeneca and Daiichi said in a joint statement. Liberum's Campbell predicts trastuzumab deruxtecan could reach $5 billion in drug sales globally for AstraZeneca and Daiichi. Herceptin generated about $7 billion in 2018. The positive results from the study also underscore AstraZeneca's bet on cancer medicines, an area of increasing focus after years of crumbling sales due to patent losses on older drugs. Daiichi and the British drugmaker said they planned to seek approval for the drug with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in the second half this year. DS-8201 is part of a drug class called antibody-drug conjugates (ADC), which link powerful cell toxins to antibodies that cling to cancer cells, sparing the healthy cells that are damaged during conventional chemotherapy treatments. There are wide ranging DS-8201 patient trials under way, five of which are at a final stage where results may be used in requests for marketing approval. (Reporting by Pushkala Aripaka in Bengaluru and Ludwig Burger in Frankfurt; Editing by Gopakumar Warrier/Keith Weir) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! If you own shares in Austin Engineering Limited (ASX:ANG) then it's worth thinking about how it contributes to the volatility of your portfolio, overall. In finance, Beta is a measure of volatility. Modern finance theory considers volatility to be a measure of risk, and there are two main types of price volatility. First, we have company specific volatility, which is the price gyrations of an individual stock. Holding at least 8 stocks can reduce this kind of risk across a portfolio. The other type, which cannot be diversified away, is the volatility of the entire market. Every stock in the market is exposed to this volatility, which is linked to the fact that stocks prices are correlated in an efficient market. Some stocks mimic the volatility of the market quite closely, while others demonstrate muted, exagerrated or uncorrelated price movements. Beta can be a useful tool to understand how much a stock is influenced by market risk (volatility). However, Warren Buffett said 'volatility is far from synonymous with risk' in his 2014 letter to investors. So, while useful, beta is not the only metric to consider. To use beta as an investor, you must first understand that the overall market has a beta of one. Any stock with a beta of greater than one is considered more volatile than the market, while those with a beta below one are either less volatile or poorly correlated with the market. See our latest analysis for Austin Engineering What we can learn from ANG's beta value Looking at the last five years, Austin Engineering has a beta of 0.85. The fact that this is well below 1 indicates that its share price movements haven't historically been very sensitive to overall market volatility. This suggests that including it in your portfolio will reduce volatility arising from broader market movements, assuming your portfolio's weighted average beta is higher than 0.85. Share price volatility is well worth considering, but most long term investors consider the history of revenue and earnings growth to be more important. Take a look at how Austin Engineering fares in that regard, below. Story continues ASX:ANG Income Statement, May 8th 2019 Does ANG's size influence the expected beta? Austin Engineering is a noticeably small company, with a market capitalisation of AU$104m. Most companies this size are not always actively traded. Companies with market capitalisations around this size often show poor correlation with the broader market because market volatility is overshadowed by company specific events, or other factors. It's worth checking to see how often shares are traded, because very small companies with very low beta values are often only thinly traded. What this means for you: Since Austin Engineering is not heavily influenced by market moves, its share price is probably far more dependend on company specific developments. It could pay to take a closer look at metrics such as revenue growth, earnings growth, and debt. This article aims to educate investors about beta values, but it's well worth looking at important company-specific fundamentals such as Austin Engineerings financial health and performance track record. I urge you to continue your research by taking a look at the following: Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for ANGs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for ANGs outlook. Past Track Record: Has ANG been consistently performing well irrespective of the ups and downs in the market? Go into more detail in the past performance analysis and take a look at the free visual representations of ANG's historicals for more clarity. Other Interesting Stocks: It's worth checking to see how ANG measures up against other companies on valuation. You could start with this free list of prospective options. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. CANBERRA, Australia (AP) The Chinese diaspora in Australia, long regarded as a politically apathetic ethnic minority, are being wooed like never before by political parties who see them as key to winning crucial seats that could decide next week's general election. China has become one of Australia's largest sources of immigrants. Both Prime Minister Scott Morrison and opposition leader Bill Shorten have opened WeChat accounts to reach large Chinese populations in big cities with political messages. The opposition center-left Labor Party has cried foul over some of that engagement, complaining to WeChat's owner Tencent that China's largest social media platform with 1 billion monthly users is being exploited by opponents who generate fake news. Morrison on Wednesday denied his conservative Liberal Party was behind misleading WeChat posts and doctored accounts that target Labor policies on refugees, taxes and the economy. "That's not the Liberal Party's campaign," Morrison told reporters. "People should be up front and candid about their policies. That's what we're doing." An extraordinary feature of the Australian political system is that voting is compulsory. So ethnic minorities turn out to vote to avoid a fine even if they are not politically engaged. Maree Ma is the general manager of independent Australia-based newspaper Vision China Times, which has 500,000 readers across five Australian cities who are mostly immigrants from China. Ma said her readers were responding to the political messaging and "are really quite engaged." "Historically, I would say a lot of our readers don't really care too much about the federal election, people don't know the candidate and there's not that many Chinese candidates. But this time around, what we've found is people are very interested in this particular federal election," Ma said. Wanning Sun, a professor at the University of Technology Sydney's Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, said WeChat had become far more important than traditional media to Australian politicians attempting to reach Chinese-Australian voters. Story continues "To put it bluntly, they actually realize that it is a platform they can't afford not to use," Sun said. "The challenge for them is, A, how to use it effectively and, B, how to stop yourself being shafted on WeChat by the opposition. It's getting quite dirty out there." She said Labor had learned a lesson from how the Liberals "very aggressively and effectively" used WeChat to campaign in the east Melbourne seat of Chisholm in the last election in 2016. The government lost 14 seats in that election and Chisholm was the only seat that the Liberals won from Labor. The Labor and Liberal parties are pitting two Chinese-Australian candidates against each other in Chisholm in the May 18 election. Either Liberal candidate Gladys Lui or Labor candidate Jennifer Yang is likely to become the first Chinese-Australian woman to be elected to Australia's House of Representatives. Labor lawmaker Penny Wong on Tuesday blamed the Liberal Party for fake campaign news on WeChat. "Our message to the prime minister is this: This is not what we do in Australia. We have robust political debates. We don't have major political parties engaging in fake news on this media platform or any other media platform," Wong said. Mining billionaire Clive Palmer is a political party leader who is trying to exploit Australian concerns about Chinese investment. His United Australia Party has entered into a vote-swap deal with the Liberal Party that improves both parties' chances of winning House seats. "I'm opposed to the Chinese because they're trying to invade our country, destroy our industries and take things over," Palmer told Australian Broadcasting Corp. on Wednesday. Palmer is seen as having a strong chance to win a Senate seat after spending tens of millions of dollars of his own money on political advertising. Ma said the most important election issues for her readers were the economy and Australia's relationship with China, its biggest trading partner. Chinese immigrants had traditionally favored Labor, she said. A Labor-led government gave diplomatic recognition to the People's Republic of China in 1972, seven years before the United States took the same step. A Labor government also allowed 20,000 Chinese students to stay in Australia permanently after the Chinese military killed student protesters in Tiananmen Square in Beijing in 1989. But Ma said Chinese voter support seemed to be shifting toward the conservatives. Opinion polls suggest Labor will win the election. By David Shepardson WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Automakers expect U.S. President Donald Trump to delay a decision due next week on whether to impose steep tariffs on imported cars and auto parts on national security grounds for up to six months as talks continue with the European Union and Japan. In February, the Commerce Department submitted its "Section 232" national security report. Trump has until May 18 to act, but four auto executives who have spoken to administration officials say he is likely to extend that deadline by another 180 days. He may also announce a specific date to impose new duties if no deal is reached. Administration officials say Trump could still opt to impose the tariffs by May 18, but believe that after a series of investment announcements by automakers - including one by General Motors Co on Wednesday of $700 million in three Ohio plants - he will likely delay the tariffs amid a trade battle with China. The auto tariffs face wide opposition in Congress. The White House refuses to turn over the Commerce report to Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, who has been demanding to see it. On Wednesday, 159 House of Representatives members led by Ways and Means Committee Vice Chair Terri Sewell wrote White House National Economic Council Director Larry Kudlow to urge him to advise Trump against "imposing trade restrictions that could harm the auto sector and the American economy." The letter from 79 Democrats and 81 Republicans seen by Reuters warned that imposing tariffs on parts in cars "may overlap with motorcycles, recreational vehicles, construction equipment, heavy-duty trucks, farming equipment, powersports vehicles, and others." The White House did not immediately comment. Administration officials have said tariff threats on autos are a way to win concessions from Japan and the EU. Last year, Trump agreed not to impose tariffs as long as talks with the two trading partners were proceeding in a productive manner. Story continues The industry says tariffs of up to 25 percent on millions of imported cars and parts would add thousands of dollars to vehicle costs and potentially lead to hundreds of thousands of job losses throughout the U.S. economy. Gloria Bergquist, a spokeswoman for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, a trade group representing GM, Volkswagen AG, Toyota Motor Corp and others, said automakers adamantly opposed new tariffs. "At the end of the day, you can either have tariffs or investments, but you can't have both," she said. The Commerce Department started its investigation in May 2018 at Trumps request to determine the effects of imports on national security. U.S. light-duty vehicle prices would increase by $2,750 on average, including U.S.-built vehicles, reducing annual U.S. sales by 1.3 million units and forcing many consumers to the used-car market, according to a think tank report released last year. Major automaker groups said last year the cumulative effect for the United States would be an $83 billion annual price increase and argued there was no evidence auto imports posed a national security risk. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Peter Cooney) The Duke and Duchess of Sussex introduced their newborn son to the world today during a photo call at Windsor Castle. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was held in father Harrys arms and wrapped in a special white blanket for the occasion. While the parents decided to break with royal tradition by eschewing a hospital photo call, their choice of baby blanket was a subtle nod to previous royal births. The blanket, known as the Ivory White Leaves and Flowers Baby Shawl, retails at 105 and is from Nottingham-based shawl maker G.H.Hurt & Son. READ MORE: Meghan Markle 'caring' for both 'anxious' Prince Harry and baby Although a seemingly inconspicuous choice, it is an identical blanket to one worn by every royal baby for almost 70 years. Baby Sussex wore a traditional heritage blanket for the photo call. [Photo: Getty] Baby Sussexs cousins, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges three children, all wore the shawl. The Queen also wrapped Prince Charles in the same style of blanket upon his birth in 1948. Its very exciting news not only for everyone here, but for the city of Nottingham too. We werent sure if TRH the Duke and Duchess of Sussex would use one of our shawls as they have generally chosen to do things differently, James Taylor, marketing and operations executive at G. H. Hurt & Son, told Yahoo UK. Wed like to congratulate TRH the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on the safe arrival of their newborn boy and we are looking forwards to finding out what they choose to name him. READ MORE: Duchess of Sussexs touching post-birth interview Meghan, meanwhile, dressed her post-baby bump in a sleeveless trench dress by British designer Wales Grace Bonner. She accessorised the designer ensemble with co-ordinating suede heels, a Jennifer Meyer turquoise necklace and kept her hair in loose waves - a far cry from her polished bun. Photo: Annie Spratt/Unsplash Looking for family-friendly events this week? From a children's book fair to a volunteer opportunity, there's plenty to do when it comes to opportunities for learning and fun. Read on for a rundown of what to do this week. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Teacher Appreciation Day Party! Meet fellow teachers and community educators and enjoy drinks and light fare, along with music by a DJ, at this free event sponsored by digital lesson planner platform Common Curriculum. When: Tuesday, May 7, 6-8 p.m. Where: Impact Hub Baltimore, 10 E. North Ave. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets KW Legacy Red Day 2019 Sign up as a volunteer with Keller Williams Legacy and Brokerage Group's day of community service. You will participate in activities at Edgewood Elementary School, or make a separate donation to help beautify the school. Money raised will go toward painting the auditorium and cafeteria and a new stage curtain. When: Thursday, May 9, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Where: Edgewood Elementary School, 1900 Edgewood St. Price: Donation, $20 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets 7th Annual African American Children's Book Fair Children's literature about African-Americans and people of other ethnicities is featured at this free book fair, organized by the the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture. Enjoy author readings, illustration workshops, live performances and art activities. Hard-to-find book titles will be on sale. When: Saturday, May 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: 830 E. Pratt St. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Dhaka (AFP) - Bangladesh's counter-terrorism police have arrested a suspected Islamic State member who returned to the country after fighting for the militant group in Syria, police said Wednesday. Dhaka launched a major crackdown against homegrown extremist outfits following an attack by a local outfit on a cafe in the capital in 2016 that killed 22 people, including 18 foreigners. Police said Motaj Abdul Majid Kafiluddin Bepari, 33, joined IS in Syria after he travelled to the war-torn country from Saudi Arabia, where he was born to a Bangladeshi parent. He returned to Bangladesh in February and made contact with a new faction of local IS-inspired Islamist extremist outfit Jamayetul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), blamed for a series of attacks, including the 2016 cafe attack, counter-terrorism official Wahiduzzaman Noor told AFP. Officers arrested Bepari near a mosque in Dhaka's Uttara neighbourhood on May 5, and he has been charged under anti-terrorism laws for alleged plans to establish a caliphate in the moderate Muslim-majority country, Noor added. "He went to Syria in 2018 and fought for the IS." Bepari's arrest came after counter-terrorism police alerted airport authorities about the possible return of more than 50 Bangladesh-origin IS extremists after the group's defeat in Syria, deputy commissioner of Dhaka police Mohibul Islam Khan told AFP. This is the latest in a series of IS-related security incidents in Bangladesh. Last week, Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said the British-born Shamima Begum, who married an Islamic State militant in Syria and whose parents held Bangladeshi citizenship, would "face the death penalty" for terrorism if she came to the South Asian country. And in April, Bangladeshi security forces raided a suspected extremist hideout in Dhaka, killing at least two militants. But on the same day, IS jihadists claimed their first attack in Bangladesh in more than two years, an attack on a group of policemen, the SITE Intelligence Group reported. In the fall of 1998, a polite, unassuming gay student in Wyoming was pistol-whipped, tortured and bound to a wooden fence for 18 hours, his body crusted in blood and slumped in dirt. The savage assault and death of Matthew Shepard sent ripples of horror across the nation, catapulting issues of homophobia and hate crimes to the forefront amid protests, vigils and calls for legislation. The case also thrust a new term into the public consciousness: the so-called gay panic defense. More than 20 years later, only three states have taken action to ban gay/transgender panic defenses. New York could soon become the fourth as the Legislature weighs the issue this week. LGBTQ advocates are hoping the state will be a game-changer in building momentum across the country. More: Jussie Smollett attack highlights amplified risks facing black LGBT community It is long past time that every state ban perpetrators of violent crimes from asserting a victims LGBTQ identity as a potential defense for their violent actions, said Xavier Persad, senior legislative counsel at the Human Rights Campaign. A gay panic defense is a legal strategy that asks a jury to find that a victims sexual orientation or gender identity is to blame for a defendants actions even homicide, according to the National LGBT Bar Association. Mourners gather for the remembrance ceremony for Matthew Shepard at the National Cathedral in Washington on Oct. 26, 2018. Shepard died on Oct. 12, 1998, after being beaten and tortured, in a crime that widely seen as bringing national attention to hate crime legislation. The tactic plays into stereotypes and stigmas based on transphobia and homophobia, said Trevon Mayers, policy and community outreach director at New York's LGBT Community Center. In essence: "I only killed him because he was coming on to me," he said. The practice is based in prejudice and should never be available in any American courtroom, Persad said. These 'defenses' send the destructive message that LGBTQ victims are less worthy of justice. How the defenses work The panic tactics arent free-standing defenses in the criminal code, but they are usually tapped in one of three ways to boost another line of defense: Story continues Insanity defense or diminished capacity: A defendant claims a sexual proposition triggered an emotional breakdown, sparking a gay or transgender panic. Provocation defense: A defendant argues that a victims proposition prompted the defendants violent behavior. Self-defense: The accused says they feared that a victim, because of sexual orientation or gender identity, could cause the defendant bodily harm. The issue is complicated, and many people in the mainstream aren't aware of how troubling it is, acknowledges Milo Primeaux, civil rights attorney and CEO of Just Roots Consulting. "It's a backdoor approach to discrimination." In the Shepard case, the defendants, who were never charged with a hate crime, invoked the gay panic strategy, claiming they exploded in outrage when Shepard made a sexual advance. That defense was ultimately rejected, and the duo were convicted of murder and sentenced to life. But the tactics have lived on within laws across the nation. Panic defenses have surfaced in court opinions in about half of all states since the 1960s, according to a 2016 study by the Williams Institute, a think tank at UCLA Law. And alarming to LGBTQ advocates: Many of those cases have been in the past 20 years. More: Dallas police investigating assault of transgender woman as potential hate crime The use of the defense in recent time "doesn't surprise me," said Primeaux, who cites a rise in crimes against the LGBTQ community, particularly transgender people. Gay panic claims are not isolated issues, he said, but are "part of a pattern of violence." In 2013, the American Bar Association approved a resolution calling on all state legislatures to prohibit the practice. California was the first to adopt a ban in 2014; Illinois followed in 2017; Rhode Island in 2018. People gather before a vigil for slain transgender woman Islan Nettles at Jackie Robinson Park in Harlem on August 27, 2013 , in New York City. New York saw its own high-profile case with the murder of Islan Nettles, 21, a fashion company assistant who was beaten to death in Harlem in 2013. James Dixon claimed in a 2016 trial that he seethed after flirting with Nettles and then discovering she was transgender. In a recorded confession played at a pretrial hearing, Dixon didnt deny killing Nettles. But he said he was provoked and recalled lashing out after a friend mocked him. I just didnt want to be fooled, he said. Dixon accepted a deal, pleading guilty to first-degree manslaughter, and was sentenced to 12 years, a term decried by family members and activists as too lenient. 'A catalyst for progress' Bills to prohibit panic defenses have emerged in the New York Legislature before but have died in committee. Advocates are optimistic 2019 will chart a new course. Before this year, New York had not passed any LGBTQ legislation since 2011, Mayers said. But in January, bills barring transgender discrimination and conversion therapy for minors became law. This year also marks the 50-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, the Greenwich Village uprising that sparked the LGBTQ equal rights movement in the U.S. "There is a larger spotlight on New York for folks to prove that the state is the civil rights leader it says it is," Mayers said. "The Legislature is making it a point to champion longstanding protections we haven't seen before." More: 'Welcome home': Matthew Shepard interred at Washington National Cathedral Gay panic defenses are "purely antithetical" to landmark legislation passed 10 years ago intended to protect the LGBTQ community the Hate Crimes Prevention Act, also known as the Matthew Shepard Act and it's time to take more steps forward, Primeaux said. Striking gay panic defenses nationwide would "complete the legacy of the Matthew Shepard case," Mayers said. "I am hoping that whatever happens in New York can be a catalyst for progress around the country." Contributing: The Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Banning gay panic defenses: The unfinished legacy of the Matthew Shepard case House Democrats voted on Wednesday to hold the US attorney general, William Barr, in contempt of Congress, citing his failure to hand over the full, unredacted version of the special counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. The decision came on a day of escalating tensions between Congress and the White House. Earlier on Wednesday, the White House invoked executive privilege to block the House judiciary committees request for the full Mueller report and underlying evidence. Later in the day, the House intelligence committee chair, Adam Schiff, subpoenaed Barr for documents and materials related Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigation, including all counterintelligence and foreign intelligence materials produced during the Special Counsels investigation, the full unredacted report, and the underlying evidence. According to a statement from Schiffs office, the justice department must produce the documents by 15 May. The Senate intelligence committee, meanwhile, has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr, two people familiar with the matter told the Associated Press. The panel is calling in the presidents son to answer questions about his 2017 testimony to the panel as part of its investigation into Russian election interference. It is the first known subpoena of a member of Donald Trumps immediate family, and a new sign that the Senate panel is continuing with its own Russia investigation even after the release of Muellers report on the same subject. The Democratic-led House judiciary committee approved the resolution to hold Barr in contempt by a party-line vote of 24-16. No person and certainly not the top law enforcement officer in the country can be permitted to flout the will of Congress and to defy a valid subpoena, Jerry Nadler, the judiciary panels chairman, said of the decision to hold Barr in contempt. It is our constitutional duty to respond. The contempt vote comes after Barr declined to meet a deadline of 6 May to provide Congress with an unredacted version of Muellers report, detailing the special counsels findings after a two-year investigation into the Trump campaigns ties to Russia and possible obstruction of justice by the president. Story continues Barr has instead made a less redacted version of the report available to select members of Congress, who are prohibited from discussing the document with their colleagues. Members of the judiciary committee spent much of Wednesday morning sparring over the conclusions of the Mueller report, with Republicans accusing Democrats of leading a politically motivated crusade against the president. But Democrats insisted lawmakers had a right to review the Mueller report in full, pointing out that Mueller had squarely placed the findings of his investigation in the hands of Congress. The presidents decision to invoke executive privilege and block Democrats subpoena, Nadler said, was a clear escalation in the Trump administrations blanket defiance of Congress constitutionally mandated duties. The hearing was held after a series of 11th-hour negotiations between Nadlers panel and the justice department over the report failed to break the stalemate, prompting Democrats to charge ahead with the contempt vote and the first instance of the party using its House majority to take punitive action against a Trump administration official. In recent years, the justice department has declined to prosecute contempt cases against the attorney general or administration officials. The two most recent efforts to compel action from executive branch officials by holding them in contempt of Congress involved Barack Obamas former attorney general Eric Holder in 2012 and former White House counsel Harriet Miers in 2008. Both cases resulted in lengthy legal battles that outlasted the administration they served. Democrats have voiced frustration with Barrs handling of the report, suggesting the attorney generals actions were designed to protect the president. Barr has on multiple occasions characterized the report in ways that appeared to absolve Trump of wrongdoing, even though a redacted version of the Mueller report released on 18 April showed nearly a dozen instances in which the president or his campaign sought to obstruct justice. Additional reporting by Lauren Gambino Grayscale Investments CEO Barry Silbert visited Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business to discuss the case for bitcoin versus gold as a store of value. | Source: Shutterstock By CCN: Barry Silbert, who is at the helm of Grayscale Investments, is taking his firms Drop Gold campaign to Wall Street, or at least to Midtown. Grayscales Silbert was a featured guest on Fox Business Mornings with Maria program featuring host Maria Bartiromo, who prior to joining Fox Business rose to fame at CNBC. The last time that the crypto investor was a guest on Marias show, the bitcoin price was trading at $500. Now with the price perched above $5,000 and barreling for $6,000, the financial medias interest in cryptocurrencies has once again been piqued. Grayscales Silbert pointed out that the bitcoin price had skyrocketed approximately 10% over the last 24 hours. He pointed to potential catalysts such as the trade talk tensions between the U.S. and China, bullish technicals, or the perhaps Grayscales Drop Gold campaign resonating with investors. Bartiromo wasnt convinced, considering the bitcoin price remains a far cry from its peak of $20,000, asking Silbert for a sales pitch to buy bitcoin today. Bitcoin is the younger generations version of gold. It has all the same characteristics as gold. Its scarcedivisibleportable. But it actually has real utility. The bitcoin community is creating an entire new payments and financial rail network that I think is going to transform the financial markets, said Silbert. Volatility Story continues Still, bitcoin remains a much more volatile asset than gold, its amazing use case notwithstanding. For an investor seeking shelter from the whims of the stock market, gold is a proven hedge while bitcoins price is a proven risk. Bartiromo points out that Grayscale Investments [is] looking to challenge a $1 trillion institution, encouraging people to drop gold from their portfolios in favor of bitcoin. But why? Theres $8 trillion of gold held today. Whats interesting is that the younger generation of investors, the people who have not yet allocated it to gold, dont view gold as the same way as our parents or grandparents did. We grew up after the gold standard. So, the biggest buyers of gold right noware central banks, said Silbert. Bartiromo points out the challenge, which is to change an entire generation of thinkers. Silbert just wants to see the conversation happening. Read the full story on CCN.com. By Will Dunham WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A fossil unearthed in northeastern China of a feathered dinosaur a bit bigger than a blue jay that possessed bat-like wings represents a remarkable but short-lived detour in the evolution of flight and the advent of birds, scientists said on Wednesday. The dinosaur, named Ambopteryx longibrachium, lived 163 million years ago during the Jurassic Period and took flight with membranous wings made of skin supported by a long, pointed wrist bone, dramatically different from the distinctive feathered wings of birds. Before aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright flew the first successful airplane, others dabbled with various experimental flying machines. There was an analogous period of flight experimentation among dinosaurs before small feathered ones evolved into the first birds about 150 million years ago. Unlike birds, Ambopteryx had membranous wings resembling pterosaurs, flying reptiles that appeared roughly 230 million years ago, and bats, flying mammals that appeared roughly 50 million years ago. Its fossil, found in 2017 by a local farmer in Liaoning Province, was well preserved, boasting details of soft tissue like the wing membranes, bristly body feathers, stomach contents of its last meal and gizzard stones. It lacked the long, strong flight feathers characteristic of birds. Ambopteryx is the second-known dinosaur with membranous wings, joining Yi qi, which lived 2-3 million years later. Yi's fossil, published in 2015, was found 50 miles (80 km) away. "The discoveries of Ambopteryx and Yi completely change our view about the origin of avian flight," said paleontologist Min Wang of the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. "For a long time, we thought feathered wings were the only flight apparatus" in the evolution of birds, Wang added. "However, these new discoveries clearly exhibit that membranous wings also evolved in some dinosaurs closely related to birds. Put together, the breadth and richness of the experimentation pertaining to flight is greater than was previously thought during the dinosaur-bird transition. And we may be seeing just the tip of the iceberg." Membranous wings in dinosaurs appear to have been short-lived experimentation, added Wang who led the research was published in the journal Nature. Wang said Ambopteryx, about 13 inches (32 cm) long and about 11 ounces (306 grams) in weight, was certainly capable of gliding but it is difficult to know whether it could achieve powered flight. Likely omnivorous, Ambopteryx lived an arboreal lifestyle in a forested environment. (Reporting by Will Dunham; editing by Jonathan Oatis) By Jose Sanchez BELIZE CITY, May 8 (Reuters) - Belizeans on Wednesday began voting in a referendum on whether a top U.N. court should rule on neighboring Guatemala's claim that it is the rightful owner of half of Belize's territory, a dispute dating back to Spanish and British colonial rule. Guatemalans in April 2018 overwhelmingly voted to ask the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague to make a decision on the dispute with Belize. The referendum in the small Central American country is highly politicized, but could help end a border conflict that originated during the colonial era. Belize's ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) has argued in favor of seeking the court's intervention in hopes of settling the matter once and for all, betting the court will uphold the current border. Critics of the plan, which include the opposition People's United Party (PUP), are pushing voters to reject arbitration by the court due to the risk that Belize could lose a large chunk of disputed territory from its center to the south. Guatemala recognized the independence of Belize at the beginning of the 1990s. But it never accepted the borders and continues to claim about 11,000 square kilometers, about half the territory of the former British colony. In December 2008, both countries signed a deal that its inhabitants could vote to decide whether the territorial claim, which includes various islands, should be decided by the ICJ. Belize, an English-speaking country of around 375,000 people, became independent in 1981. Inhabited by Maya before the arrival of Europeans, the territory was claimed by Spain and settled by British buccaneers during the 17th century. Belize later became a British possession surrounded by countries that Spain had colonized. Some 147,000 Belize residents have registered to take part in Wednesday's referendum. Results of the vote are expected by early Thursday. (Reporting by Jose Sanchez; Writing by Anthony Esposito; Editing by David Gregorio) By Tim Reid LOS ANGELES, May 8 (Reuters) - Democratic presidential front-runner Joe Biden on Wednesday held the first of two high-dollar fundraisers in Los Angeles, which he opened to the press in a bid to counter criticism he is relying too heavily on the often closed-door events. The former vice president's first Los Angeles event was held at the home of Cynthia Telles, a UCLA School of Medicine faculty member and a board member of Kaiser Permanente, which runs the Kaiser Foundation Hospitals. A later fundraiser was due to be attended by Hollywood power broker and film executive Jeffrey Katzenberg. Responding to potential concerns by voters in Democratic nominating primaries about big-money donations to his campaign, and who exactly is donating, Biden will provide limited media access to all of his fundraising events. "Its reflective of Joe Bidens long-standing commitment to transparency," a Biden campaign representative said in an email. The strategy was also aimed at tackling criticism from some Democrats that Biden is relying too heavily on corporate and wealthy donors, something many in the party's crowded presidential field have pledged to avoid as they seek to build their campaigns on a network of small-dollar, grassroots supporters. Two rivals, U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders, have criticized Biden for attending a fundraiser at the home of Comcast executive and lobbyist David Cohen shortly after announcing his presidential bid last month. "It's a smart move," Karen Finney, a longtime Democratic strategist, said of Biden's move to open such events to the press. "It's saying: 'I'm doing these types of fundraisers, but people can see what I say and who the people attending are.'" Political strategists say the presence of media will also help keep Biden on message and not lead him to make potentially damaging off-the-cuff remarks in a private setting. Story continues In past presidential races, former Democratic President Barack Obama, 2016 Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and 2012 Republican nominee Mitt Romney all made comments at closed-door events that were leaked and came back to haunt their campaigns. 'OLD JOE' At the first event on Wednesday, Biden told a crowd of about 200 on the front lawn of Telles' home, after food that included shrimp and tuna ceviche, that his campaign would be about restoring dignity to America's workers and bringing the country together. Biden said he got criticized for being "old Joe" and for talking about the way things used to be, but added: "Folks, we've got to bring the country together. There's no way this country can function without consensus." Guests paid up to the personal campaign contribution limit of $2,800 to attend the event. "Thank you for your donations," Biden told them. "I promise you, I promise you, I promise you, I will try and not let you down." Biden was scheduled to speak at an evening fundraiser at the Brentwood home of former Obama administration Ambassador to Spain James Costos and his husband, the designer Michael Smith. Tickets to that event cost $2,800, and were also available to those who could guarantee to raise at least $10,000 for Biden's campaign. Between fundraisers, Biden visited a taco shop with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, where he pledged to voters never to speak ill of a fellow Democratic presidential candidate. Referring to the party's current roster of 22 White House contenders, he added: "This field's going to be winnowed out pretty quickly. This is going to work its way through, and that goes for all of us." (Reporting by Tim Reid; Editing by Peter Cooney) By Barbara Lewis and Simon Jessop LONDON (Reuters) - The world's biggest diversified miners have yet to see their share prices reflect their role as providers of the minerals needed for a shift to a low-carbon economy. Mining companies provide minerals such as cobalt used in electric vehicle batteries and copper for increased electrification, and the sector's balance sheets are in rude health. Still, many investors are wary. Concerns include the demand outlook from China, the world's biggest consumer of metals; the sector's history of wasting shareholders' money on mergers and acquisitions that never deliver returns; and a patchy record on environmental, social and governance-related (ESG) issues. Reminders of the dangers include a disaster in Brazil at a Vale tailings dam in January that killed an estimated 300 people, and a U.S. corruption investigation into Glencore, announced in April. Refinitiv data shows the Big Four diversified miners - Rio Tinto, BHP, Anglo American and Glencore - trading at a lower forward 12-months price-to-earnings multiple than Britain's FTSE 100. "All the large mining companies are trading on high free cash flow yields relative to the broader market when you adjust for capital spending on growth projects," said Nick Stansbury, head of commodity research at Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM). "This is indicative of the market's scepticism about the sustainability of those cash flows, the robustness of capital allocation by management and the sectors challenges around ESG issues." James Clunie, fund manager at Jupiter Fund Management, which holds shares in Rio Tinto and BHP, agreed uncertainty around medium-term commodity prices was a deterrent. "A whole class of people say 'I'm out' because of that uncertainty, and that leads to (the stocks') undervaluation," he said. (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here https://tmsnrt.rs/2GSDbei) Story continues The same attitude is reflected in the ratings given to the four companies by brokers, with most favoring a fence-sitting "hold" recommendation. (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here https://tmsnrt.rs/2DIaVsN) On the flipside, others focus on how the miners have transformed their balance sheets and improved governance. "Compared to the past, the resources sector is carrying a fraction of the leverage it used to, which should reduce the volatility of the shares," Evy Hambro, manager of the world's largest actively managed mining equity fund, BlackRock's BGF World Mining Fund, told Reuters. "In addition, the improved capital discipline combined with lower levels of reinvestment has increased the free cash flow available to shareholders and resulted in rising distributions to shareholders." BlackRock is the world's largest money manager, with some $6 trillion in assets. Hambro manages a combined $11.9 billion across several funds. (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here https://tmsnrt.rs/2VEal9z) (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here https://tmsnrt.rs/2DHI9sc) (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here https://tmsnrt.rs/2VG8y3W) For an interactive version of the graphic, click here https://tmsnrt.rs/2VIClZK. LGIM's Stansbury said the sector was wrestling with several paradoxes. "They are one of the most crucial industries in the fight against climate change," he said, referring to the minerals they can produce to roll out electrification and renewable energy. But extracting those minerals results in high levels of emissions, volumes of water consumption and fatalities, despite promises from major miners to eliminate harm. Mining can also lift large numbers of people out of poverty by providing well-paid jobs and helping to roll out electrification in emerging economies, but operating in the fragile democracies where some of the richest resources are found can expose miners to corruption allegations. "It is essential the sector makes further progress on transparency and corruption. Investors need to be confident that the government take from resource extraction is used for the benefit of the local population," Stansbury said. Another concern is that the sector's financial health could be setting it up for a fall. "Counterintuitively the risks around misallocation of capital are greater now that the sector has largely resolved their balance sheet problems," Stansbury said. "At the bottom of the last cycle the sector just didn't have the money to spend unwisely on bad projects. Now they do, so it's no surprise that these concerns are rising again in investor's minds." (Editing by Dale Hudson) Bitcoin basher Nouriel Roubini and crypto bull Mike Novogratz sparred over the future of blockchain. | Source: AP (i), YouTube (ii). Image Edited by CCN. Bitcoin perma-bull Mike Novogratz clashed with avowed crypto-hater Nouriel Roubini at the 2019 SALT tech conference in Las Vegas on May 8. During a panel discussion about digital currencies, Roubini once again trashed crypto as a massive bubble. Meanwhile, Novogratz cooed that bitcoin is a miracle. Crypto is the mother and father of all bubbles Nouriel Roubini is an economics professor at New York University. His latest claim to fame is opposing bitcoin. Despite the fact that Roubini has little real-world (i.e., non-academic) experience managing large sums of money, he has repeatedly dismissed bitcoin as worthless and a giant scam. He doubled-down on these sentiments today at the SALT forum. Crypto is the mother and father of all bubbles, Roubini said (via CNBC). [The term] cryptocurrency is totally a misnomer. To be a currency, you have to be a unit of account, valuable, and a scalable means of payment. Roubini said crypto evangelists are essentially con artists who are deluding themselves and others. Why? Because bitcoin cant scale efficiently, is too vulnerable to massive manipulation, and is too volatile to be a stable store of value. LONDON (Reuters) - British Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn will urge both pro-EU voters and Brexit supporters on Thursday to vote for his opposition party at this month's European election, a poll he blamed on the Conservative government's "complete failure" to steer the country out of the bloc. Again setting out Labour's stance that a second referendum is an option only to stop the government's "bad deal" or leaving the European Union without an agreement, Corbyn will call on voters to see beyond divisions over Brexit to back his party. The need to contest elections to the European Parliament on May 23 - after the country failed to meet an original March 29 deadline and still has not agreed on a deal for the departure - poses difficulties for both Labour and Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservatives. Both parties have internal divisions over Europe and both were punished by voters in local elections last week over the delay to Brexit. Corbyn, an instinctive critic of the EU, has long wanted to return to his anti-austerity message, hoping in vain for months that the chaos over Britain's departure would bring down the government and trigger a national election. But May has so far remained. She refused on Wednesday to give further details of a timetable for her departure and reiterated her commitment to step aside when the first phase of Brexit negotiations is completed. Corbyn, under pressure from lawmakers and party members to throw his support behind a second referendum, or confirmatory vote, on any Brexit deal, will try to turn attention to "the injustices in our society" which, he says, are deepening. "No one expected us to be holding these European elections, but the government's complete failure on Brexit means they are going ahead," he will say at the launch of his party's campaign at the University of Kent in southern England. "While the government's incompetence and division on Brexit has created this deadlock, the injustices in our society are deepening," he will say, according to excerpts of his speech. Corbyn sees his anti-austerity message as a vote winner after it helped Labour's much stronger than expected showing in a 2017 parliamentary election. That result left May to rely on the support of a Northern Irish party to prop up her government. But his party still faces anger over its Brexit stance, which Corbyn has tried to engineer to appeal to both younger, pro-EU voters in the cities and Brexit supporters in northern England. Labour, like the Conservatives, will face an array of parties at the European election trying to lure away their supporters with straightforward pro- and anti-Brexit positions. "That's why we insist the real divide in our country is not how people voted in the EU referendum. The real divide is between the many and the few," Corbyn will say. "I urge you to vote Labour, the party that is determined to bring the many together and take on the entrenched power of the few." (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper; Editing by Frances Kerry) LAHORE, Pakistan (AP) A suicide bomber attacked security forces guarding a famous Sufi shrine in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore on Wednesday, killing at least 10 people and wounding 20 others, police said. Hizbul Ahrar, an offshoot of the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying their target was the police. Hundreds of pilgrims were inside and outside the shrine, where a local Sufi saint is buried, when the blast took place. Sufism is a mystical strain of Islam that often involves reverence for local holy figures and shrines. Sunni extremists view Sufism with hostility and have carried out attacks on Sufi celebrations and shrines across the Muslim world. In Pakistan, militants carry out near-daily attacks targeting security forces. Lahore police chief Ghazanfar Ali said five police and five passers-by were killed in the attack, adding that the toll could rise as some of the wounded were in critical condition. Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, the governor of Punjab province, told reporters that those who carried out Wednesday's attack were the "enemy of Islam and humanity." "God willing, the security forces with the cooperation of whole nation will defeat these terrorists," he added. Prime Minister Imran Khan also condemned the bombing. Pakistanis in large numbers visit the shrine, where a pair of suicide attacks in 2010 killed and wounded dozens of people. Lahore is the capital of eastern Punjab province, which has seen similar attacks in recent years. WeWork. | Photo: Cristina R./Yelp Want to up your game when it comes to health and wellness? From a discussion on sleep to a health advocacy conference, there's plenty to do when it comes to holistic activities to enrich your week. Read on for a rundown. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Sleep Talk Presented by Tufts Medical Center From the event description: Join Be Well Boston and Tufts Medical Center for a fun and informative night out. "Boston" magazine Wellness Editor Tessa Yannone and a panel of experts will explore the restorative benefits of a good nights sleep and how a well-rested mind and body are essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy healthy bites from from Bakers Best Catering and complimentary refreshments from LaCroix Sparkling Water and Social Wines. When: Wednesday, May 8, 6-8 p.m. Where: Industrious, Financial District, 100 Summer St., Suite 1600. Price: $15 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Well Wednesday Yoga Session From the event description: May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. We are going to be addressing concepts of healing and growth, as we mindfully hold ourselves in postures to breathe, release and heal. When: Wednesday, May 8, 6-8 p.m. Where: WeWork, 1 Beacon St. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Rethinking Advocacy in Medicine Conference From the event description: Join the Boston Student Health Activist Community for a full day of speakers, panelists and interactive breakout sessions that will engage attendees in exploration of the systematic, community and individual levels of health advocacy. Registration is free and open to anyone interested in learning more about the spectrum of advocacy. When: Saturday, May 11, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: Tufts University School of Medicine, 145 Harrison Ave. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Brazilian federal prosecutors have opened a probe into a botched army operation in Rio de Janeiro that killed two innocent civilians, arguing that a decision to have military prosecutors investigate the case violated the constitution. Last month, soldiers stationed in a violent Rio neighborhood pumped 80 bullets into a family's car, killing Evaldo Rosa dos Santos and Luciano Macedo and injuring two others. The incident highlighted the risks of a growing militarization of public security in Brazil. After the shooting, the army said it had arrested 10 soldiers in a probe run by military investigators. In a statement on Wednesday, the federal prosecutor's office said it had opened its own probe, given that the soldiers were representatives of the federal government. It cited a resolution by the attorney general's office on April 9 that called the military probe "unconstitutional." Soldiers are shouldering a growing share of police work in Brazil, where violence spurred by warring gangs led to a record 64,000 murders in 2017. Over the last few years, Brazil has come to rely more heavily on the military to take over law and order from poorly trained, financially stretched state police forces. For much of last year, Brazil's military was in charge of public security in Rio de Janeiro state. The number of murders in 2018 fell 7 percent from the previous year to 4,950, Rio state data show. However, the number of people killed in confrontations with security forces rose 36 percent over the same period. President Jair Bolsonaro, a former army captain who later served nearly three decades as a Rio state lawmaker, took office on Jan. 1 vowing a hardline approach to fighting Brazil's gangs. (Reporting by Gabriel Stargardter, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Shares in Brazilian gunmaker Taurus Armas SA surged on Wednesday, the day after President Jair Bolsonaro signed a decree to ease restrictions on gun imports and increase the amount of ammunition a person can buy. Taurus stock surged 21 percent to 4.5 reais. An earlier executive order signed by Bolsonaro had eased restrictions for collectors, marksmen and hunters, for example allowing them to carry loaded guns to shooting clubs. The latest decree was expanded to lift a ban on imported arms if there was a similar domestic-made product. Taurus has a factory in Miami and may benefit from imports too. Tuesday's decree raised a limit on ammunition purchases to 5,000 cartridges per year for normal guns. The previous cap was 50 cartridges per year for the average citizen, with discretionary limits for soldiers, police, hunters and some other categories left to the Brazilian military. The decree also allows for up to 1,000 cartridges to be bought annually for use in restricted weapons, including large-caliber and semiautomatic weapons that are limited to military and police. Taurus called the order a "milestone," and said it "could significantly increase the demand for firearms by hunters, shooters and collectors (CACs) and law-abiding citizens for their self-defense and defense of their property." It added that it was "poised to meet any increase in demand." Bolsonaro won office last year in part on a vow to end years of corruption and rising violence. He has pledged to show no mercy to violent gangs who have spread terror throughout Brazil, turning it into the world's murder capital. Local and foreign arms and defense companies that had gathered for a security expo in Rio de Janeiro last month said they hoped the new government's crime crackdown would bolster sales, but also fretted about a weak economy and tough political climate. "I think Brazil is in a better phase, and we think this government will really bring growth for our country, and ... things will improve," Taurus Chief Executive Officer Salesio Nuhs told Reuters at the time. Bolsonaro said on Tuesday the decree would take effect in 30 days, allowing time for the Economy Ministry to consider tax issues for imported guns. (Reporting by Paula Arend Laier and Alberto Alerigi Jr.; Writing by Gabriel Stargardter; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Jeffrey Benkoe) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Talks between Britain's government and the main opposition Labour Party to break the Brexit deadlock are on the verge of collapse, broadcaster ITV's political editor said on Wednesday. Those involved in the negotiations say they have no expectation that there will be a breakthrough and the talks could be pronounced dead later on Wednesday, Robert Peston reported. The pound fell to a day's low just above $1.30 on the news. (Reporting by Andy Bruce; Editing by Alistair Smout) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Britain is extremely concerned about Iran's announcement on Wednesday that it is scaling back curbs to its nuclear program, Prime Minister Theresa May's spokesman said, urging Tehran not to take escalatory steps. Iran announced steps that stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers for now, but threatened more action if countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. "We are extremely concerned about this announcement and urge Iran to continue to meet its commitments under the deal and not to take escalatory steps," the spokesman told reporters. "This deal is a crucial agreement which makes the world safer and we will ensure it remains in place for as long as Iran upholds these commitments." (Reporting by Elizabeth Piper, Writing by Kylie MacLellan' editing by Kate Holton) By Susanna Twidale LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Britain, the birth place of coal power, is set to go seven days without electricity from coal-fired stations for the first time since its 19th century industrial revolution, the National Grid operator said on Wednesday. Britain was home to the world's first coal-fueled power plant in the 1880s, and coal was its dominant electric source and a major economic driver for the next century. However, coal plants emit almost double the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) - a heat-trapping gas blamed for global warming - as gas-fired power plants, and were moved out of Britain's cities from the late 1950's to reduce air pollution. As part of efforts to meet its climate target to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent compared with 1990 levels in the next three decades, Britain plans to wean itself completely off coal-fired power generation by 2025. "At 1.24 pm (12.24 GMT) today, we will reach over a week of no coal being used to operate the electricity system," Fintan Slye, director of National Grid Group's Electricity System Operator, said in a statement. "As more and more renewables come onto our energy system, coal-free runs like this are going to be a regular occurrence." Low power prices and levies on CO2 emissions have also made it increasingly unprofitable to run coal plants, especially when wind and solar power production are high. Britain's independent climate advisers, the Committee on Climate Change, last week recommended that it deepen its climate target to a net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This would require even more renewable electricity production, an earlier phase out of new petrol and diesel cars, and lifestyle changes such as lower beef and lamb consumption. Britain's last deep-cast coal mine closed in North Yorkshire in 2015, marking the end of an era for an industry once employing 1.2 million people in nearly 3,000 collieries. Story continues Former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher sounded the death knell for the industry in the mid-1980s when she defeated a bitter year-long miners' strike against plans to close collieries and eliminate jobs. Last year the government rejected plans from Banks Mining to develop a new coal mine in northeastern England on the grounds it could hamper efforts to curb climate change. However, the company won a High Court challenge to fight the decision and the application is now back with the current local government minister, James Brokenshire. (Reporting By Susanna Twidale; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Theresa May is now close to setting out a timetable for her departure from office, the political editor of The Sun newspaper reported on Wednesday. "I understand Theresa May is now close to setting out a timetable for her departure from No10, with or without Brexit taking place," Tom Newton Dunn said on Twitter. "Friends of Graham Brady say he had "a very productive conversation" with her in No10 yesterday, and is now awaiting firm thoughts from her - which may, or may not, come in time for the 1922 Committee meeting at 5pm today." (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; editing by Kate Holton) London (AFP) - Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday resisted demands from within her party to give a clear timetable for stepping down, with her spokesman insisting she would stay until Britain's exit from the EU is finalised. "She is here to deliver Brexit in phase one and then she will leave to make way for new leadership for phase two," the Downing Street spokesman said. The Conservative leader is under increasing pressure from MPs and activists unhappy over her handling of Brexit, which was meant to have taken place on March 29 but has been delayed twice. In March, May promised that after taking Britain out of the European Union, she would let another leader negotiate future bilateral ties with the bloc. With Brexit now delayed to October 31, however, her critics fear she might stay in office for many more months and are pressing for clarity on her departure. She is immune from a leadership contest until December after surviving one last year. Anger has flared up after dismal local election results last week, and senior lawmaker Graham Brady met May on Tuesday to relay his colleagues' concerns. Brady, the chairman of the so-called 1922 committee of Tory MPs, said she agreed to address its executive members next week on the question of her future. He also said she hoped to hold another vote on her EU divorce deal before European elections take place in Britain on May 23, by bringing forward a bill to implement the text. The prime minister agreed a Brexit deal with the EU last November, but MPs had rejected it three times. - 'Not an issue about me' - Earlier, Brexit-backing Conservative Andrea Jenkyns confronted May in the House of Commons, saying "the public no longer trust her to run Brexit negotiations." May replied: "This is not an issue about me and it's not an issue about her. If it were an issue about me and the way I vote, we would already have left the EU." The government has for several weeks been in talks with the main opposition Labour party to find a compromise deal, but there is no sign of progress yet. Story continues A Labour spokesman said the party hoped to establish "in the next few days" whether a deal was possible. If their talks fail, May has pledged to allow the parliament to decide on a new strategy in a series of votes. The EU agreed to delay Brexit to allow British politicians to try to agree a way to leave that minimises the impact of the split. May on Tuesday reluctantly accepted that Britain will take part in European elections, almost three years after voting to leave the EU. But she still hopes a divorce deal can be agreed to allow Brexit by June 30, which would mean British MEPs would never have to take their seats. In case you missed it, the mecca of all investing events occurred this past weekend. That's right, folks -- Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger, the heads of conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK-A)(NYSE: BRK-B) took to the stage for hours to once again answer questions and provide invaluable investing insight. As has become tradition, Buffett will often sit down for multiple interviews prior to taking the stage for Berkshire's annual meeting, including with CNBC anchor Becky Quick. Over the past couple of years, quite a many nuggets of wisdom, and even breaking-news events, have emerged from these sit-down discussions. In fact, just last week we learned that Berkshire Hathaway was an active acquirer of Amazon.com stock during the first quarter, albeit Warren Buffett had no direct influence over those trades, with one of his two other key money managers making the purchase(s). Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett at the annual shareholder meeting. Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett at the annual shareholder meeting. Image source: The Motley Fool via Flickr. Buffett doesn't see green pastures with the marijuana movement But it was an interview with Fox Business Network anchor Liz Claman that may have stolen the show. While speaking with both Buffett and Charlie Munger on Friday, May 3, the day before Berkshire's annual shareholder meeting, the duo discussed one of the company's largest holdings, Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO), and the possibility that it could become involved as a player in the cannabis industry. According to Claman, the response from Buffett regarding Coca-Cola and cannabis was as follows: "It would be a mistake for Coca-Cola to get into the marijuana-cannabis business. They have a wholesome image and that would be detrimental to it." For those who may not recall, Coca-Cola was rumored to be in discussion with two major marijuana growers in 2018: Aphria (NYSE: APHA) and Aurora Cannabis (NYSE: ACB). Aphria is expected to slot in as the third largest grower by peak production at 255,000 kilos a year, but has been reeling since early December after a short-seller report alleged the company had overpaid for three Latin American assets. Despite an independent committee finding the price paid was within a reasonable range, Aphria wound up taking a 50 million Canadian writedown on the acquisition in its most recent quarter, further hurting shareholders' confidence in the company. Story continues A cannabis leaf floating atop carbonation in a glass, with a cannabis leaves set to the right of the glass. Image source: Getty Images. Meanwhile, Aurora Cannabis has the pedigree of a company that's just waiting for a global, brand-name partner. Aurora is expected to produce more marijuana than any Canadian grower on an annual basis, and it has a broader international presence than any other pot stock. All that's really missing is a deep-pocketed partner. However, my suspicion is that Aurora's tendency to lean on common stock issuances to finance its numerous acquisitions may have scared Coca-Cola away from taking an equity stake. Had Coca-Cola taken the plunge, its stake would have been continually diluted. Instead of diving in headfirst, Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey has been adamant since October -- a commitment he reaffirmed in an interview with Yahoo! Finance following the company's most recent quarterly results -- that his company has no intention of entering the cannabis space. Neither Buffett's nor Coca-Cola's views should surprise you While it might appear surprising that an avid capitalist like Buffett, or a global brand like Coca-Cola, would quickly dismiss the fast-growing cannabis industry, there are valid reasons for each to keep their distance. With regard to Coca-Cola, there are no assurances that nonalcoholic cannabis-infused beverages will be a needle mover. Even though Canada is preparing to give numerous marijuana derivatives the green light by October, the infused beverage space is expected to be crowded, which could limit the profitability of pot-based beverages, be they cannabidiol (CBD)-, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-, or combo-based. CBD is the nonpsychoactive cannabinoid best known for its perceived medical benefits, whereas THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid known for getting the user high. In other words, Coca-Cola is diverse enough geographically, and has a large enough portfolio of products, that entering the cannabis space isn't necessary at this time. A drug free zone sign in a quiet neighborhood. Image source: Getty Images. As for Buffett, there are multiple reasons he and Berkshire Hathaway, which owns a 9.4% stake in Coca-Cola worth $18.9 billion, would shy away from marijuana. To begin with, consider that Buffett and Munger are 88 and 95 years old, respectively. They have an old-school mindset about cannabis, and surveys regularly show that as age increases, favorability toward cannabis tends to decrease. Buffett's commentary about Coca-Cola maintaining is "wholesome image" is testament that the Oracle of Omaha doesn't believe the grass would be greener for the beverage giant with a cannabis company in its corner. From a business perspective, the marijuana industry would raise a number of red flags for Buffett. As a buy-and-hold investor, Buffett tends to favor time-tested, profitable business that trade on reputable U.S. exchanges. Comparatively, most marijuana business are only a few years old, many aren't profitable on an operating basis, and fewer than a dozen trade on a major U.S. exchange. Not to mention, the legality of cannabis is all dependent on the country in question, and that's not something Buffett or Munger would likely buy into. Cannabis might be the fastest growing industry in North America right now, but for Warren Buffett it's a big marijua-no. More From The Motley Fool John Mackey, CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Sean Williams has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Amazon and Berkshire Hathaway (B shares). The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of The Gorman-Rupp Company (NYSE:GRC) by taking the foreast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. I will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. It may sound complicated, but actually it is quite simple! Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for Gorman-Rupp Crunching the numbers We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow are will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 Levered FCF ($, Millions) $31.34 $46.76 $49.08 $51.19 $53.15 $55.01 $56.81 $58.57 $60.32 $62.08 Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 4.97% Est @ 4.3% Est @ 3.83% Est @ 3.5% Est @ 3.27% Est @ 3.11% Est @ 2.99% Est @ 2.91% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 8.91% $28.77 $39.42 $37.99 $36.38 $34.68 $32.96 $31.25 $29.59 $27.98 $26.44 Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF)= $325.45m Story continues "Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 10-year government bond rate of 2.7%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.9%. Terminal Value (TV) = FCF 2029 (1 + g) (r g) = US$62m (1 + 2.7%) (8.9% 2.7%) = US$1.0b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV) = TV / (1 + r)10 = $US$1.0b ( 1 + 8.9%)10 = $439.32m The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is $764.77m. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. This results in an intrinsic value estimate of $29.27. Compared to the current share price of $33.47, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. NYSE:GRC Intrinsic value, May 8th 2019 The assumptions Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Gorman-Rupp as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.9%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.037. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. Next Steps: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and it shouldnt be the only metric you look at when researching a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. For Gorman-Rupp, There are three essential aspects you should further examine: Financial Health: Does GRC have a healthy balance sheet? Take a look at our free balance sheet analysis with six simple checks on key factors like leverage and risk. Future Earnings: How does GRC's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Are there other high quality stocks you could be holding instead of GRC? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every US stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. EDITORIAL: Toasts & Roasts: Wishing a full and speedy recovery to the Lufkin Police officer who put his life on the line to spare the life of a citizen By Dan Whitcomb LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A California man who prosecutors say ran a criminal ring that trafficked underage girls on the now-defunct sex website Backpage.com pleaded guilty on Tuesday to a string of federal charges. Ariel Guizar-Cuellar, 38, entered his guilty pleas in U.S. District Court in San Jose, marking the latest criminal case connected to Backpage. The website was seized by federal agents in 2018 as part of a wide-ranging investigation into prostitution and child sex trafficking. Former Backpage Chief Executive Carl Ferrer agreed to take the site down as part of a deal with prosecutors in which he pleaded guilty to conspiracy and money laundering charges and pledged to cooperate in the case. The website's founders, Michael Lacey and James Larkin, have pleaded not guilty and are scheduled to stand trial next year. Prosecutors say Guizar-Cuellar, of San Jose, oversaw a sex trafficking ring that sold sex with adult women and at least three underage girls on Backpage from September 2014 to January 2016. "Guizar-Cuellar was the leader, primary facilitator, enforcer, and main financial beneficiary of the unlawful commercial sex venture," U.S. Attorney David Anderson said in a statement announcing the pleas. "He recruited the minors through social media networks. He took pictures of the minors and caused those pictures to be posted in online advertisements for their sexual services on Backpage.com," Anderson said. Prosecutors say Guizar-Cuellar transported the girls to hotels and motels across the Bay Area to meet the men who responded to his ads, providing the victims with condoms and collecting the money they were paid. As part of the plea agreement, Guizar-Cuellar admitted recording one of the girls as she was victimized in the scheme, giving the minor girls methamphetamine and telling them to lie about their ages. He pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of children, three counts of sex trafficking of children and one count of sexual exploitation of children. Story continues Guizar-Cuellar is being held in federal custody pending sentencing in October, when he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison as well as monetary restitution. A former middle school teacher who admitted paying for sex with a 14-year-old girl who had been trafficked on Backpage was sentenced last week to 10 years in prison. On April 15, a Wisconsin man who prosecutors say trafficked seven young women on Backpage was convicted of federal trafficking charges. (Reporting by Dan Whitcomb; Editing by Paul Tait) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - A college at the University of Cambridge has removed a bell from view over fears it came from a slave plantation, as one of Europe's oldest seats of learning delves into its historic links with slavery. Staff said they had "shuttered off" the bell in St Catharines College as they tried to find out more about its past. "As part of the ongoing reflection taking place about the links between universities and slavery, we are aware that a bell currently located at the College most likely came from a slave plantation," a college spokesman said. "A more detailed investigation is under way into the bells provenance as part of a wider project researching the Colleges historical links to the slave trade," he added. The college said the bell was presented in 1960 but gave no more information. Cambridge said last month it was beginning a two-year study of how it benefited from the Atlantic slave trade and whether its scholarship reinforced race-based thinking during Britain's colonial era. In the biggest deportation in known history, weapons and gunpowder from Europe were swapped for millions of African slaves who were then shipped across the Atlantic to the Americas. Ships returned to Europe with sugar, cotton and tobacco. Around 17 million African men, women and children were torn from their homes and shackled into one of the world's most brutal globalized trades between the 15th and 19th centuries. Many died in merciless conditions. Dr Miranda Griffin, a senior tutor at St Catharines, said it was important that the university acknowledged historical links to slavery and the slave trade. "As an academic community, we will continue to conduct rigorous research into all aspects of our past and to reflect on our commitment to diversity, inclusion and asking challenging questions," Griffin said. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge Editing by Andrew heavens) Beijing (AFP) - A Canadian man handed the death penalty for drug smuggling in China will appeal his sentence Thursday, in a case that has deepened the diplomatic rift between Beijing and Canada. The appeal comes against the backdrop of Beijing's anger over the December arrest of Meng Wanzhou, a senior executive at Chinese tech giant Huawei, who faces a US extradition hearing in Canada on Wednesday. Robert Lloyd Schellenberg was sentenced to death on drug trafficking charges in January. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau denounced the decision as "arbitrarily" chosen. Schellenberg's appeal will take place Thursday morning at the Dalian Intermediate People's Court in northeastern Liaoning province, a source familiar with the case told AFP. The Dalian court declined to comment. The provincial level Liaoning High People's Court did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. China will "protect the legal rights" of Schellenberg during his lawsuit, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang at a press briefing. "China is a country ruled by law," he said. But Ottawa remains "extremely concerned that China has chosen to apply the death penalty, a cruel and inhumane punishment," Canadian foreign ministry spokeswoman Brittany Fletcher said in an email to AFP. Canadian officials plan to attend Thursday's hearing. "Canada has requested, and will continue to seek, clemency for Mr Schellenberg," she said. Schellenberg was originally sentenced to 15 years in prison and a 150,000 yuan ($22,000) forfeiture in November. But following an appeal, the high court in Liaoning ruled in December that the sentence was too lenient given the severity of his crimes. About a month later, his sentence was changed to capital punishment. China has executed foreigners for drug-related crimes in the past, including a Japanese national in 2014, a Filipina in 2013, and a Briton in 2009. Story continues Last week, another Canadian, Fan Wei, was sentenced to death for drug trafficking in a separate case in southern China. - Canadians arrested - Schellenberg's case is seen as potential leverage for Meng, who was arrested on a US extradition request related to Iran sanctions violations -- a link that Beijing has repeatedly denied. Following the Huawei executive's arrest in December, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in what observers saw as retaliation. Days after Canada launched the extradition process against Meng in March, China announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets. It alleged fellow Canadian Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Both men have been denied access to lawyers and allowed only monthly consular visits. Meng is free on bail in Vancouver as the extradition process continues. The diplomatic row appears to have has spilled over into the economic arena: China has banned Canadian canola shipments worth billions of dollars. Beijing has punished other countries with trade sanctions over diplomatic spats in the past. By Steve Scherer OTTAWA, May 8 (Reuters) - Canadian prosecutors on Wednesday dropped charges against a navy admiral accused of leaking confidential information, ending a politically sensitive case that had become a headache for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Vice Admiral Mark Norman, then the second-highest ranking figure in the armed forces, had been accused of giving a reporter details in 2015 about a near C$700 million ($520 million) contract to buy a container ship and convert it into a much-needed supply vessel. Norman denied the charge and his lawyers complained the government was refusing to hand over thousands of documents they said were crucial to the case. The trial had been due to begin this August, just before the start of Trudeau's campaign for re-election in October. The charge was dropped after the defense provided new information to the prosecutors, who determined the trial could not be won. "It's over," lead prosecutor Barbara Mercier told reporters, declining to give further details. "We decided alone - no political interference whatsoever - that we couldn't make the charge," Mercier said. The federal prosecution service in Canada is supposed to be entirely independent of the government. The question of political interference is a sensitive one for Trudeau's Liberals, who are trailing their Conservative Party rivals in opinion polls in part because of a scandal involving allegations of meddling by government officials in a corporate corruption case. Prosecutors initially said Norman had leaked details of a cabinet meeting in November 2015 when the Liberals, who had just taken power, discussed freezing a contract to acquire a much-needed supply ship. The contract had been awarded by the former Conservative government. Such a move would have entailed delays and after the leak, the government stuck to the initial plan and the vessel was delivered on time. "The alarming and protracted bias of perceived guilt across the senior levels of government has been quite damaging," said Norman, who was suspended and removed from his post as vice chief of the defense staff. Story continues Trudeau did not comment directly, but noted public prosecutions are "entirely independent of my office." Defense Minister Harjit Sajjan said the government would cover Norman's legal costs. While the court proceedings appear to be over, the Conservatives signaled they would continue to press the case. "We will use every tool in our tool box to get to the bottom of the matter," said Conservative deputy leader Lisa Raitt. ($1 = 1.3472 Canadian dollars) (Reporting by Steve Scherer; Editing by David Ljunggren and Grant McCool) What happened? Victims of the London Bridge terror atrocity fought back against the Isis attackers even after they had been stabbed, an inquest heard today. CCTV was shown to the court of PC Charlie Guenigualt kicking terrorist Khuram Butt after being knifed. A different video showed Lion of London Bridge Roy Larner fighting the terrorists in a restaurant after being stabbed in the stomach. Passers-by threw chairs at the attackers and one man threw a drink after being stabbed. Chilling gesture The inquest was shown a series of CCTV videos of the night of 3 June 2017 today. Pedestrians were seen running for their lives as the terrorists van mounted the pavement on the bridge in an attempt to mow down the crowd. Footage described by the coroner as chilling footage showed one of the terrorists washing his knife under a tap and wiping it on his beard after murdering eight people. Butt, 27, was caught on CCTV cameras cleaning his 12in pink ceramic knife inside Black and Blue restaurant while Youssef Zaghba, 22, took a drink from the tap behind the bar. The third attacker, Rachid Redouane, 30, was shown on CCTV bending down to tie his shoelaces in the street during the rampage through Borough Market. In another extract from CCTV, Redouane was seen talking to an unidentified man, and then walking away without attacking him for an unknown reason. Within 10 minutes, the attackers, who injured 48 more people, had been shot dead by police marksmen. Read more: Borough Market victim swung skateboard at terrorists (PA Ready News) Mystery of man spared by terrorists (The Independent) Police kept firing at wounded attackers (The Guardian) Terrorist wiped knife on beard after killing eight people (Evening Standard) The royal baby made its first public appearance today as the world found out the name of Meghan and Harrys first child Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The royal couple announced the name on Instagram, shortly after giving a brief interview at Windsor Castle. Read the full story here and watch a clip from the interview below: Story continues Not enough evidence Keith Flint killed himself Keith Flint died by hanging and had cocaine, alcohol and codeine in his system at the time of his death, an inquest has heard. However, the coroner said there was not enough evidence to conclude The Prodigy stars death was suicide. Flint, 49, was found hanging at his home in North End, Essex, on 4 March. The coroner said she could not have been sure Flints actions were deliberate. Read the full story here (Sky News) Mrs May rejects more calls to quit Theresa May has no intention of caving to widespread Tory calls for her to reveal when she will quit. The PM said today she will not set out a fresh timetable for her departure, dismissing calls from a number of backbench Conservative MPs. Mrs May said she had already made a very generous and bold offer of resigning if her Brexit deal is passed. Her stubbornness is likely to infuriate Tories and could spark a revolt. Read the full story here (Sky News) Katie Price admitted today a recent cosmetic surgery left her face looking like a Space Invader after it became swollen from the procedure. She said she had her own fat put under her eyes as its safer than putting chemical stuff in. On the amount of surgeries she has had done, she said: If you look back at pictures I looked like a duck, I had my lips done. I think I looked horrific then. Would you ever consider getting cosmetic surgery? Read the full story and have your say below: 710,562 Thats the number of hospital admissions in England where obesity is recorded as the main or secondary reason. Its a remarkable 15% jump on the previous year. Of the total number of admissions, 10,660 had a primary diagnosis of obesity and 74% of these were women. Nottingham and Wirral had much higher rates than the national average. Read the full story here. (PA News) Texas is full of great designers and makers, and new things are happening every day in the Lone Star State. To help you keep up with all the design news and goings-on in the area, AD PRO is here with what you need to know this week. CB2 Opens New Location in Knox District CB2 is opening later this year on Dallass McKinney Avenue in a building formerly occupied by Forty Five Ten. The store will sell the brand's sleek and minimalist furniture, tableware, rugs, and lighting. With 8,392 square feet to cover in the new location, CB2 is set to attract buyers looking for stylish, modern pieces on a budget. Kathleen Lynch Joins Wilson Associates Dallas Kathleen Lynch is bringing more than 15 years of experience to Wilson Associates Dallas as the firm's new operations director. Wilson Associates is a hospitality design giant with multiple locations, and with Lynchs experience as a LEED-accredited interior designer and field manager, shell be overseeing large hospitality projects in Nevada, California, and other areas of the Southwest. Perkins+Will Makes Promotions in Dallas Studio The massive design firm Perkins+Will has made several updates to its staff in Dallas. Mary Dickinson, Robert Ting, and Gardner Vass were all named associate principals; Robert Casstevens, Cory Griffin, Ashley Roberts, Ryan Roettker, and Devin Weaver were all given the title of senior associate. Appetite for Architecture Speaks at Rapscallion Join Architecture and Design Exchange for Appetite for Architecture on May 14 at Rapscallion in Dallass Lower Greenville neighborhood to discuss the intersection of architecture and dining. During the event, attendees will enjoy Happy Hour drinks and appetizers at 5 p.m. before they listen to a discussion by Rapscallion owner Brooks Anderson and architects Kelly Mitchell and Sean Garman of Mitchell Garman Architects about the inspiration and design process behind the restaurant. Tickets cost $30. Story continues Jeffrey Dungan and Patrick Sutton Host Book Signing at M Naeve On May 16, Houston furniture store M Naeve will host a book signing for Jeffrey Dungan and Patrick Sutton. Architect Jeffrey Dungans first book, The Nature of Home: Creating Timeless Houses, focuses on creating homes that are timeless and can be handed down through multiple generations. Storied Interiors is interior designer Patrick Suttons first book, and showcases sophisticated designs in homes, hotels, and restaurants, and the stories that each space tells. The signing will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest Kahlo Kitchen. | Photo: Tanya R./Yelp Looking to uncover all that Las Tierras has to offer? Get to know this El Paso neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from a sushi bar to a rolled ice cream shop. Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top places to visit in Las Tierras, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of neighborhood businesses. Read on for the results. 1. Sunny's Sushi Photo: Melissa B./Yelp Topping the list is sushi bar Sunny's Sushi, which offers seafood, steak and more. Located at 12302 Montana Ave., Bldg D, Suite 401-402, it's the highest-rated business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 100 reviews on Yelp. Sunny's menu features cold and hot appetizers, soups, rice and noodle dishes and a wide array of sushi and teppanyaki. Sample the spicy salmon roll paired with the fried noodle with vegetables. 2. Kahlo Kitchen Photo: Jon W./Yelp Next up is Mexican spot Kahlo Kitchen, which also offers burgers and more, situated at 12420 Edgemere Blvd., Suite 101. With 4.5 stars out of 95 reviews on Yelp, it's proven to be a local favorite. Established in 2015, Kahlo Kitchen crafts its menu around being a border town, featuring both authentic Mexican specialties and Mexican-inspired classic American items, such as burgers, hot dogs and other dishes. Get a taste of both cultures with the El Charro Chorizo burger, featuring a Chorizo-infused hamburger patty, avocado, sauteed pineapple, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, asadero cheese and chipotle ranch. 3. Mystic Grape Wine Bar & Suds Photo: Mystic Grape Wine Bar & Suds/Yelp Wine and piano bar Mystic Grape Wine Bar & Suds, which offers beer, wine, spirits and more, is another top choice. Yelpers give the business, located at 2270 Joe Battle Blvd., Suites B and C, 4.5 stars out of 84 reviews. This spot serves up wine, craft beer, mixed drinks and a food menu that features tapas, salads, burgers and entrees. There are 48 wines on tap, and the bar is a self-pour process in which patrons choose the type of wine and the size they prefer directly from the wine dispensing machines. Story continues 4. Maribu's Mexican Restaurant Photo: Jacqueline s./Yelp Maribu's Mexican Restaurant, a Mexican spot that offers sandwiches, seafood and more, is another much-loved neighborhood go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 56 Yelp reviews. Head over to 12379 Edgemere Blvd. to see for yourself. Family-owned and operated since 2013, Maribu's strives to provide "a warm homemade style meal," according to its website. Try a breakfast burrito or the huevos rancheros for breakfast, or stop in later in the day for enchiladas or a Maribu's burger with green chilis, grilled pineapple, ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato and pickles. 5. Ice & Pan Photo: britney l./Yelp Finally, there's Ice & Pan, a local favorite with 4.5 stars out of 34 reviews. Stop by 2301 N. Zaragoza Road, Suite 205 to hit up the spot to score ice cream and frozen yogurt next time you're in the neighborhood. Ice & Pan specializes in rolled ice cream and also offers milk tea, boba, milkshakes, fresh fruit and other sweet treats. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Photo: gilber franco/Unsplash Looking to up your appreciation of the arts? We've rounded up four artsy events around Chicago this week that will scratch your cultural itch, from a dance performance to an art exhibition. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Melvin Edwards in Conversation From the event description: Artist Melvin Edwards uses existing objectschains, shovels, hooksin small, fierce sculptures that respond to racial violence in the United States. Edwards will be in conversation with Geof Oppenheimer, sculptor and associate professor of practice in the Department of Visual Arts, and Emily Lynn Osborn, associate professor of African History, African Studies and the students at the University of Chicago. When: Wednesday, May 8, 6-7:30 p.m. Where: Smart Museum of Art, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Discussion: Object Lessons From the event description: From stuffed toys to knitted sweaters, peculiar shoes to plastic wrap, common objects become "agents" or activators in Liz Magor's sculptures, bringing with them elusive narratives or up-swells of feeling. For this program, artists Alex Chitty and Jenine Marsh each respond to Magor's practice, followed by a conversation together. When: Thursday, May 9, 6-7 p.m. Where: Swift Hall, 1025 E. 58th St., Floor 3 Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Butoh Dance Performance From the event description: Spend the evening awake in your senses with three visceral Butoh performances by Jon Poindexter, Sara Zalek and Holly Chernobyl. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with performances beginning at 6 p.m. Light fare and beverages included. When: Friday, May 10, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Where: International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 N. Lake Shore Drive Price: $12 for students; $12 for IMSS Museum Members; $24 for general admission Story continues Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Linda Ann Weber ART Attitude Exhibition From the event description: Come celebrate the Chicago launch of ART Attitude. ART Attitude is an exhibition by local, contemporary artist, Linda Ann Weber, who will be debuting her work for the first time in Chicago. This exhibit will feature her Graffiti Series, a layered, mixed media collage technique on canvas. Opening reception will feature an interactive art installation and the unveiling of two Chicago-themed artworks created specifically for this event. When: Saturday, May 11, 6-10 p.m. Where: Workshop 4200, 4200 W. Diversey Ave. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. BEIJING, May 8 (Reuters) - China's April exports unexpectedly fell 2.7 percent from a year earlier, while imports grew by a surprising 4 percent, their first increase in months, official data showed on Wednesday. That left the country with a trade surplus of $13.84 billion for the month, according to the General Administration of Customs. Analysts polled by Reuters had expected April shipments from the world's largest exporter to have increased a modest 2.3 percent from a year earlier, after a strong rebound of 14.2 percent in March. Imports were expected to have dropped 3.6 percent, narrowing from the previous month's 7.6 percent fall. The trade surplus was projected to have expanded to $35 billion last month from $32.65 billion in March. China's economy is expected to slow to 6.2 percent this year, the weakest in nearly 30 years, according to a Reuters poll, as sluggish demand at home and abroad weighs on activity despite a flurry of policy support measures. (Reporting by Beijing Monitoring Desk and Yawen Chen; Editing by Jackie Wong & Kim Coghill) By Julie Zhu and Kane Wu HONG KONG (Reuters) - Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) provider Megvii Inc, commonly known as Face++, said on Wednesday it raised $750 million in its latest funding round. The funding raises start-up Megvii's valuation to slightly over $4 billion as it prepares for an initial public offering (IPO) in Hong Kong planned for later this year, said two sources with knowledge of the matter. Bank of China Group Investment (BOCGI) Ltd, the state bank's private equity arm, led the fundraising with $200 million, they said. BOCGI declined to comment on the fundraising. Macquarie Group, ICBC Asset Management (Global) Co and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the world's biggest sovereign wealth funds, also joined the new round, Megvii said in a statement. Existing investor Alibaba Group also participated in this round, said one of the sources. Alibaba declined to comment. Megvii, also backed by Foxconn Technology, has enlisted Citigroup, Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan to work on its Hong Kong IPO, said the second of the two sources. Megvii declined to comment further on its fundraising or IPO plans. All of the banks declined to comment. Reuters reported in December that Megvii was targeting raising $500 million in a new funding round. The proceeds will be mainly used to strengthen Megvii's technology capabilities in deep learning, accelerate the commercialization of its AI-enabled solutions, recruit talent and finance global expansion, according to the statement. The fundraising comes amid Beijing's plans to build a ubiquitous closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance network and become an international leader in AI, a technology that is increasingly becoming key to various sectors. Chinese and foreign investors are pouring money into the sector given Beijing's emphasis on the technology. Investments in the AI sector surged to $2.1 billion through 88 deals last year, more than four times the total value in the previous two years, data from Refinitiv showed. Megvii's rival SenseTime Group Ltd has raised more than $600 million from SoftBank and its Vision Fund, valuing it in the most recent round at $7.6 billion. Last year, Alibaba invested for the first time in Megvii, which provides the technology for Alipay, Alibaba's online payment unit, to use facial recognition to make transactions, Reuters reported. Megvii Chief Executive Officer Yin Qi founded the company in 2011 with two friends from China's Tsinghua University, Tang Wenbin and Yang Mu. Megvii provides facial recognition and other AI technology to businesses including Alibaba, Ant Financial and Huawei Technologies and serves government entities and state-owned firms. (Reporting by Julie Zhu and Kane Wu; Adding reporting by Shu Zhang; Editing by Christian Schmollinger) By Heather Somerville SAN FRANCISCO, May 7 (Reuters) - Chinese investors maneuvered around heightened geopolitical tensions to make record-level investments into U.S. startups in 2018, but increasingly hostile conditions will likely lead to a dropoff in Chinese funding for this year, according to a new report. Chinese entities invested $3.6 billion last year in U.S. companies, exceeding the previous record of $2.8 billion in 2015, although the number of deals dipped to about 270 from more than 300, according to the report from New York-based economic research firm Rhodium Group. The robust investment comes despite policy headwinds from U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, which has levied tariffs on $250 billion of Chinese goods and penalized telecoms companies Huawei and ZTE, which the United States accuses of spying. The report's findings show the amplified role China has taken in the U.S. startup industry, even as it confronts a new U.S. law to limit access to bleeding edge technology. The law "could yet have a chilling effect on future investment," the report cautioned. The new law, known as FIRRMA, expanded the powers of an obscure government group called the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to probe transactions previously excluded from its purview, including attempts by foreigners to purchase minority stakes in U.S. startups. CFIUS began applying the law in November through a pilot program, and its effect would not be fully captured by the Rhodium report, which covers all of 2018. The government set a deadline to fully implement FIRRMA and clear up a number of ambiguities early next year. "I think the immense uncertainty about what the rules mean, the interpretation, how they are going to enforce it, what enforcement looks like, all of that produces a situation where it wouldn't be surprising if the effect so far seems modest," said Stephen Heifetz, a former member of CFIUS and now a lawyer advising companies undergoing CFIUS review. Story continues Chinese investors, including big family offices, have walked away from transactions and stopped taking meetings with U.S. startups, Reuters has reported. The opacity of venture capital, a business with few required disclosures and layers of funds to conceal the source of money, makes it difficult to quantify the precise level of Chinese investment. Rhodium estimates that Chinese entities have poured about $14 billion into U.S. startups since 2000, with 80 percent of the deals occurring since 2014. But the report cautions "tremendous uncertainty" for Chinese investment this year and points to "notable shifts within investor mix and targeted industries and technologies since FIRRMA's passage." Investments from Chinese state-owned investors had all but disappeared by February of this year, according to Rhodium. In mid-2018, there were about five such deals each month. These investors, which are controlled by the Chinese government, would likely find it impossible to get approval for an investment in a U.S. company building sensitive technology, attorneys say. Also, Chinese venture capitalists have tried to steer clear of the technology CFIUS is closely probing, such as artificial intelligence, data analytics and cyber security. Roughly 40 percent of the Chinese VC deals last year went to biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, the report says. However, that area could soon prove challenging for Chinese financiers, as CFIUS is ramping up its scrutiny of foreign biotech investments, said James Lewis, a defense and technology expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The economic slowdown in China adds further complications, causing some Chinese venture firms to fold and other investors to pull back on their overseas spending. "There is tremendous uncertainty for the remainder of 2019," the report says. (Reporting by Heather Somerville Editing by Leslie Adler) By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA (Reuters) - A month-old battle for Libya's capital Tripoli risks causing an "exponential" rise in civilian casualties as well as outbreaks of deadly diseases including cholera, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. Both sides are using ever more sophisticated weapons in a conflict straining life-saving hospital supplies near front lines that will last only a few more weeks, Dr. Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO representative in Libya, also said in an interview. So far, 443 people have been killed and 2,110 injured since the assault by eastern commander Khalifa Haftar's forces on the internationally-recognised government, according to WHO. Twenty-three civilians have died, including four health workers. At least 60,000 people who have fled the fighting in southern outskirts are in makeshift refuges, swelling the city centre's nearly half a million population, Hussain added. "The numbers will increase definitely, because the fighting is closing in towards the centre, or the more populated area in Tripoli, where then there is a higher likelihood that more and more civilians will be trapped in the cross-fire and there will be more and more civilian casualties," he told Reuters. "LIKELIHOOD OF CHOLERA" WHO medical teams have performed 200 major surgeries in past weeks, as the United Nations pushes for a ceasefire in a nation split and anarchic since the 2011 toppling of Muammar Gaddafi. "For the time being, looking at the number of injured, and the number of those being affected, these supplies can cater for 3 to 4 weeks," said Hussain, a Pakistani expert deployed by WHO in hotspots from Afghanistan to Iraq for the last 20 years. "But if there is no ceasefire and there is no reduction in the scale, scope and intensity of the conflict, even if it goes by the current intensity, we will run out of these supplies." Trauma kits to treat the wounded have been stockpiled in Tripoli, Benghazi and Sabha, but medicines for chronic disease patients with diabetes or epilepsy are needed, he said. Story continues Because of the crisis, WHO is seeking an additional $12 million from donors on top of its annual $42 million appeal for Libya. "We appeal to all the donors, that at the moment even if the (casualty/displacement) numbers are not that high, in the coming weeks these numbers will exponentially increase." With summer coming, those forced out of their homes are susceptible to diarrhoea and diseases due to contaminated water and food, crowding and bad sanitation facilities. "There is likelihood now of cholera, for example, in these IDP (internally displaced person) dwellings because the water and sanitation is compromised," he said, also noting risks of hepatitis, typhoid, measles and tuberculosis. (Reporting and writing by Stephanie Nebehay; Additional reporting by Marina Depetris; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) Photo: Gabriel Gurrola/Unsplash If you love live music, there's no time like the present when it comes to getting out and about in Cincinnati. From gospel to jazz to a rock-and-roll re-enactment, here are the local shows worth checking out this week. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. University of Michigan Men's Glee Club From the event description: Tonight, the Men's Glee Club will present a program inspired by songs of peace, justice, hope, unity and deep reflection, along with traditional Michigan songs. Composers featured include Felix Mendelssohn, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Vincent Persichetti and many more. When: Wednesday, May 8, 7-9 p.m. Where: Christ Church Cathedral, 318 E. 4th St. Price: $15 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets 'Days of Praise' Concert From the event description: Corinthian Baptist Church's "Days of Praise" is our chance to give thanks to God, from whom all blessings flow. Featured performers include JJ. Hairiston, Martha Munizzi and Israel Houghton. When: Friday, May 10, 7-11 p.m. Where: Corinthian Baptist Church - New Site, 1920 Tennessee Ave. Price: $40 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Triage From the event description: Jazz trio features Eugene Goss on vocals and percussion, Billy Larkin on keyboard and Melvin Broach on drums. When: Friday, May 10, 8:30-11:30 p.m. Where: Caffe Vivace, 975 E. McMillan St. Price: $10 cover Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Led Zeppelin 2 From the event description: Led Zeppelin 2 brings you the excitement of Led Zeppelin "in concert" by re-enacting the live improvisation and onstage interaction that earned Led Zeppelin their legendary status for performing. Rather than a "greatest hits" show, you get to experience Zeppelin as Zeppelin would have played in front of an audience. When: Thursday, May 9, 8 p.m. Where: 2621 Short Vine St. Price: $5-$10 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo (Reuters) - Heavy fighting between the army and local militiamen in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo's Ebola-stricken city of Butembo killed at least nine people on Wednesday, the mayor said. Butembo is one focus of Congo's worst ever outbreak of the hemorrhagic fever, which has killed more than 1,000 people since mid-2018. Efforts to contain the virus have been hampered by attacks on treatment centers by armed groups operating in Congos lawless east as well as by distrust among local residents, many of whom view the disease as a conspiracy. Butembo mayor Sylvain Kanyamanda Mbusa told Reuters that eight militiamen and one police officer were killed in fighting as the gunmen tried to storm the city. Security forces successfully repelled the attack before the assailants could reach the city's Ebola treatment centers and made several arrests, Kanyamanda said. Militiamen attacked a Butembo hospital last month and killed a Cameroonian doctor working for the World Health Organization (WHO) and injured two others. (Reporting by Djaffar Al Katanty; Writing by Juliette Jabkhiro; Editing by Hugh Lawson) Clovis Oncology, Inc. CLVS incurred adjusted loss of $1.63 per share in the first quarter of 2019, narrower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of a loss of $1.80. However, it was wider than the year-ago loss of $1.38 per share. Net revenues, entirely from Clovis only marketed drug, Rubraca, were approximately $33.1 million in the quarter, up 8.9% sequentially. The top line also beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $31.68 million. The company had recorded total revenues of $18.5 million, entirely from Rubraca sales, in the year-ago quarter. Shares of Clovis increased almost 1.9% on May 7, following the earnings release. The stock has increased 8.3% so far this year compared with the industrys rise of 3.2%. Quarter in Details Rubraca sales in the United States were $31.9 million during the quarter. The drug recorded first ever sales in ex-U.S. market of $1.2 million during the quarter. During the first quarter, research & development expenses increased 42.5% year over year to $62 million primarily due to increased expenses for label expansion studies on Rubraca. Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses escalated 21.6% year over year to $47.8 million, reflecting increased activities to support commercialization of Rubraca in the United States as well as Europe. Cash used in operating activities in the quarter was $98.5 million, lower than $100.6 million in the year-ago quarter. Clovis ended the quarter with $460.8 million of cash equivalents and available-for-sale securities compared with $520.1 million as of Dec 31, 2018. The company stated in its earnings release that it has entered into a clinical trial financing for up to $175 million. The company will use the fund to support its late-stage ATHENA study conducted in collaboration with Bristol-Myers BMY to evaluate Rubraca combination regimens for advanced ovarian cancer. The company anticipates that available funds following the financing agreement will extend cash runaway into the first half of 2022 from previously expected second half of 2020. Story continues Update on Rubraca In January 2019, Rubraca received approval for its second indication in Europe as a maintenance treatment for recurrent ovarian cancer patients, irrespective of BRCA-mutation, who have responded to platinum-based chemotherapy. In March, the company launched the drug in Europe starting with Germany. It will continue to launch the drug in other European countries through 2019 and 2020. Clovis is planning to file a supplemental new drug application (sNDA) in late 2019 for label expansion of Rubraca in advanced prostate cancer based on the availability of mature data from the TRITON clinical study program. In October, the company presented encouraging initial data from the phase II TRITON2 study evaluating Rubraca in metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer. A phase III TRITON3 study evaluating Rubraca in prostate cancer patients who have not received chemotherapy is currently enrolling patients. The company has a collaboration with Bristol-Myers to develop Rubraca and pipeline candidate, lucitanib, in combination with the latters PD-L1 inhibitor, Opdivo, for several cancer indications. The phase III ATHENA study evaluating Rubraca plus Opdivo as first-line maintenance treatment in advanced ovarian cancer is currently enrolling patients. A phase II study is evaluating the same combination in prostate cancer. In April, the company discontinued its phase II ATLAS study, which was evaluating Rubraca as monotherapy in recurrent metastatic bladder cancer as it was unlikely to provide a meaningful clinical benefit to patients. Our Take Clovis reported encouraging first-quarter results as it beat both earnings and sales estimates on the back of growing Rubraca sales and launch of the drug in ex-U.S. markets. The drug also maintained its market share amid competition and slower penetration of PARP inhibitors. Clovis maintained its 20% market share of the ovarian cancer PARP inhibitor market in the first quarter. We are also encouraged about the companys efforts to develop the drug as monotherapy or combination regimens for new cancer indications. Collaboration and clinical study agreements with other pharma companies, especially Bristol-Myers, provide expertise and lead to sharing of cost of development. Notably, Rubraca is the first approved PARP inhibitor in Europe that is available for treatment as well as maintenance treatment for ovarian cancer. This may help the drug to gain market share, boosting its prospects. However, the market is competitive with the presence of Glaxos GSK Zejula and Merck/AstraZenecas AZN Lynparza. Operating expenses are expected to rise in 2019 as the company will incur higher investments to support Rubracas launch in Europe and for ongoing clinical studies. Clovis Oncology, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise Clovis Oncology, Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise | Clovis Oncology, Inc. Quote Zacks Rank Clovis currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Breakout Biotech Stocks with Triple-Digit Profit Potential The biotech sector is projected to surge beyond $775 billion by 2024 as scientists develop treatments for thousands of diseases. Theyre also finding ways to edit the human genome to literally erase our vulnerability to these diseases. Zacks has just released Century of Biology: 7 Biotech Stocks to Buy Right Now to help investors profit from 7 stocks poised for outperformance. Our recent biotech recommendations have produced gains of +98%, +119% and +164% in as little as 1 month. The stocks in this report could perform even better. See these 7 breakthrough stocks now>> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMY) : Free Stock Analysis Report AstraZeneca PLC (AZN) : Free Stock Analysis Report GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK) : Free Stock Analysis Report Clovis Oncology, Inc. (CLVS) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research (The opinions expressed here are those of the author, a columnist for Reuters) By Peter Apps LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - When former Chinese army officer Ren Zhengfei founded Huawei in 1987, his business plan appears to have been relatively simple. By reverse engineering foreign-built phone switches and other basic telecoms equipment, the firm could undercut international rivals and become a worldwide market leader. For the first three decades of its life, that strategy appeared to serve the firm just fine. By 2011, Huawei was operating in more than 170 countries, serving 45 of the worlds largest 50 telecom providers and reaching about a third of the worlds population. More recently, however, the strategy has started to unravel. Seen as too close to the Chinese government, the company finds itself at the heart of a growing geopolitical confrontation between Beijing and Washington. It stands accused of allowing various forms of Chinese state espionage, while its chief financial officer is on bail in Canada after being arrested on a U.S. warrant last year. Whatever the truth of such allegations, it has become simply too controversial and distrusted for a growing number of nations to work with. The company strenuously denies wrongdoing and says it remains entirely independent of the Chinese authorities. In many respects, however, that barely matters. The saga which now includes a series of lawsuits and political crises points to a much larger trend, one that challenges almost all companies which thrived on unfettered globalization. In an environment of growing international distrust and geopolitical tension, it is simply becoming more difficult for large firms to operate worldwide without facing serious political headwinds in a whole range of jurisdictions. DISTRUST Huawei is not the first firm to lose out in this new era of distrust particularly in the technology sector, where growing nerves over espionage and cyber warfare mean Russian and Chinese firms are judged increasingly suspect by other countries. Story continues Another high-profile casualty of this trend has been IT security and antivirus firm Kaspersky Lab. Founded by former Russian intelligence official Eugene Kaspersky and his wife Natalya in 1997, it became the third-largest vendor of consumer IT software worldwide. More recently, however, it too has come under mounting suspicion, banned by the Department for Homeland Security in 2017 for use by the U.S. government. Like Huawei, Kaspersky protests its independence, moving many of its servers from Moscow to Switzerland to reassure its foreign private clients. Such steps, however, can only go so far to limit the damage. Fundamentally, both firms are now seen by growing numbers as simple proxies for their states of origin and that is viewed as enough to make them permanently untrustworthy. Such trends have been a long time coming. Some firms, particularly energy giants like Russia's Gazprom, have always been largely seen as organs of state power. What is different now, however, is that firms from Russia and China are simply viewed as suspect. That doesnt mean they cant find business but it does make deals with them much more controversial. Some European governments particularly Italy, Greece and, to a lesser extent, Germany remain keen to engage with Chinese firms, which have taken growing stakes in infrastructure, including some Mediterranean ports. Others, particularly Britain, still agonize publicly over what they should do. LEAKING Last week, that cost Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson his job after he was accused of leaking a highly contested National Security Council decision to allow Huawei to operate parts of the British 5G network. Prime Minister Theresa May remains keen to keep the Chinese firm involved, not least because of the cost savings it delivers, and perhaps also to keep open lucrative business opportunities with Beijing. The question, however, is whether the worsening international situation makes such things tenable at all. Some countries particularly in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East can still straddle the divide, welcoming Chinese investment while also dealing with the West. In Southeast Asia and northern Europe, however, where confrontation with Moscow and Beijing is escalating, such options are fast diminishing. NATO member Turkey, which has tried to keep its doors open to both the West and Moscow, will soon have to decide between buying Russias S-300 missile-defense system or taking delivery of the U.S.-built F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. Concerned that its high-tech secrets will fall into Russia's hands, Washington is making it clear that Turkey cannot do both. The Pentagon has also criticized U.S. tech firms working in China, saying their presence risks giving Beijing an advantage in areas such as artificial intelligence. Against this backdrop, attempts like Britains to operate with firms such as Huawei will become increasingly difficult. The United States, Australia and New Zealand among its partners in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing community have decided they cannot deal with the firm, and say cooperation may suffer if Britain chooses a different course. Internal reports have already criticized the security of Huaweis previous infrastructure projects. Ultimately, these growing complexities may simply make its presence in Britain unworkable, even if it can undercut on price. Keeping potential foes from essential national infrastructure makes sense for the West, particularly at a time of growing tension. Still, cross-border investment and globalization including encouraging Russian and Chinese firms to connect more with the West was until recently seen as one of the major guarantors of international peace. If that is now becoming all but impossible to countenance, it may have alarming implications for the future. *** Peter Apps is a writer on international affairs, globalization, conflict and other issues. He is the founder and executive director of the Project for Study of the 21st Century; PS21, a non-national, non-partisan, non-ideological think tank. Paralyzed by a war-zone car crash in 2006, he also blogs about his disability and other topics. He was previously a reporter for Reuters and continues to be paid by Thomson Reuters. Since 2016, he has been a member of the British Army Reserve and the UK Labour Party, and is an active fundraiser for the party. (Editing by Giles Elgood) DAKAR, May 8 (Reuters) - Congolese authorities on Wednesday recaptured one of two escaped prisoners who were on trial for the killing of two U.N. investigators, while the second suspect narrowly eluded arrest, a senior military prosecutor said. Evariste Ilunga Lumu and Kanowa Tshiaba, who escaped from prison in the city of Kananga on Monday night, are on trial accused of participating in the killing of Michael Sharp, an American, and Zaida Catalan, a Swede, in March 2017. Sharp and Catalan were investigating a conflict in the central Kasai region between state security forces and the Kamuina Nsapu militia, which prosecutors blame for their deaths. Tshiaba was arrested in the Nganza neighborhood of Kanaga, a bastion of support for the militia, which waged an insurgency in 2016-17, but Ilunga managed to slip away, said Timothee Mukuntu, Democratic Republic of Congo's top military prosecutor. "At the moment of the arrest, he (Tshiaba) was with Evariste Ilunga," Mukuntu told Reuters. "The population of Nganza resisted so they (police) were able to extract Tshiaba but not Ilunga." Ilunga is the only defendant among more than a dozen on trial to have admitted having participated in the killings. An army colonel and an informant for the national intelligence service, the ANR, have also been arrested in connection with the case. They deny involvement and have not been formally charged over the killings. Ilunga and Tshiaba's lawyer said on Tuesday that a third defendant in the case had also escaped, but Mukuntu said he had never left the prison. (Reporting by Aaron Ross Editing by Mark Heinrich) DAKAR (Reuters) - Congolese authorities on Wednesday recaptured one of two escaped prisoners who were on trial for the killing of two U.N. investigators, while the second suspect narrowly eluded arrest, a senior military prosecutor said. Evariste Ilunga Lumu and Kanowa Tshiaba, who escaped from prison in the city of Kananga on Monday night, are on trial accused of participating in the killing of Michael Sharp, an American, and Zaida Catalan, a Swede, in March 2017. Sharp and Catalan were investigating a conflict in the central Kasai region between state security forces and the Kamuina Nsapu militia, which prosecutors blame for their deaths. Tshiaba was arrested in the Nganza neighborhood of Kanaga, a bastion of support for the militia, which waged an insurgency in 2016-17, but Ilunga managed to slip away, said Timothee Mukuntu, Democratic Republic of Congo's top military prosecutor. "At the moment of the arrest, he (Tshiaba) was with Evariste Ilunga," Mukuntu told Reuters. "The population of Nganza resisted so they (police) were able to extract Tshiaba but not Ilunga." Ilunga is the only defendant among more than a dozen on trial to have admitted having participated in the killings. An army colonel and an informant for the national intelligence service, the ANR, have also been arrested in connection with the case. They deny involvement and have not been formally charged over the killings. Ilunga and Tshiaba's lawyer said on Tuesday that a third defendant in the case had also escaped, but Mukuntu said he had never left the prison. (Reporting by Aaron Ross; Editing by Mark Heinrich) Keith Flint (Credit: AP Photo/KEYSTONE/Ennio Leanza) Keith Flint had unspecified amounts cocaine, codeine and alcohol present in his system at the time of his death, the coroner has confirmed. At an inquest at Chelmsford Coroner's Court, Caroline Beasley-Murray, senior coroner for Essex, also said that an open conclusion had been recorded for the cause of death, because there was not sufficient evidence to suggest he had taken his own life. Read more: Keith Flint made people give him money every time they made a Firestarter joke We will never quite know what was going on his mind on that date, she said. I've considered suicide. To record that, I would have to have found that, on the balance of probabilities, Mr Flint formed the idea and took a deliberate action knowing it would result in his death. Having regard to all the circumstances I don't find that there's enough evidence for that. Ms Beasley-Murray also said that there was not enough evidence to confirm that Flint's death was an accident either, in which he may have been 'larking around and it all went horribly wrong'. Read More: The Prodigy frontman takes his own life aged 49 Flint, who was 49, was found dead at his home in North End, Essex, by a friend on March 4. His death sent shockwaves through the music business, with band-leader Liam Howlett saying that he was 'shell shocked, f**kin angry, confused and heart broken' in breaking the news to fans. In a statement, the band called him 'a true pioneer, innovator and legend', adding 'he will be forever missed'. The Prodigys most recent album, No Tourists, was released in November last year, and the band was planning an extensive tour this year. Following news of Flints death, all tour dates were later cancelled. Yesterday, the band encouraged anyone struggling with depression 'not to suffer in silence'. It has been a tough time for everyone over the last few weeks since Keef's passing. If you are struggling with depression, addiction or the impact of suicide, please do not suffer in silence. The Prodigy fully support the campaign to improve mental health for all... (1/2) pic.twitter.com/HjDX6Z0EGa The Prodigy (@the_prodigy) May 7, 2019 Last month, thousands of fans and well-wishers lined the streets of Braintree in Essex for his funeral. James Burnham, one of the great pillars of National Reviews early years, theorized that liberty emerges in a society only when there is a conflict within the elite. In his book The Machiavellians, he wrote: No theory, no promises, no morality, no amount of good will, no religion will restrain power. Neither priests nor soldiers, neither labor leader nor businessmen, neither bureaucrats nor feudal lords will differ from each other in the basic use which they will seek to make of power. . . . Only power restrains power. . . . When all opposition is destroyed, there is no longer any limit to what power may do. A despotism, any kind of despotism, can be benevolent only by accident. Heading into the next election, one of Republicans great strengths is that their voters seem to have imbibed Burnhams dark vision of how power and liberty are related. These voters are willing to produce a united Republican government across all three formal branches because they sense that Democratic control will create a consensus between the state and our modern clerical class. One could say that voters choose Republicans because they are for the separation of church and state. This modern clerical class is not actually composed of the ordained ministers of whats left of the Christian church. It is made up of corporate boards, much of the media, and academia. It has its communions in ideas summits, and its occasional witch-burnings in social media. There is in the written Constitution a formal prohibition against the establishment of traditional religions. But this new clerical class understands that unprovable assertions about human nature and human society can be established, so long as they trade under the name of equality. Why did Evangelicals vote for a thrice-married man who says he has never felt the need to ask God for forgiveness? Because they see what the unity of this new church and state produces. They see it in the face of Apples Tim Cook, who does nothing for freedom of conscience in China, when he instructs a state governor that the normal conscience protections consistent with religious freedom and pluralism in America are impermissible and bad for business. Story continues They see it in the legal harassment of Chick-fil-A, which is based on heaping opprobrium on the owners beliefs about marriage and sexuality, beliefs the owners think are required of them by God himself. These voters see their liberties threatened when Silicon Valley companies, who now dominate the media sphere, appoint progressive groups as censors or have employees make snap judgments to exclude or hamper the operation of mainstream conservative organizations. That they do this makes no business sense; the popularity of major social-media companies depends on the desire of American citizens to communicate freely with each other, with less oversight and filtering from the clerical class. But business interests can easily be manipulated. Governments across the West have warned these companies that this free communication is producing the wrong electoral results. And so the policies used to govern them must be revised. If conservative ideas and institutions are going to survive into the future, it is going to require not just a revival of interest in Americas founding Constitution, but a keener understanding of the way checks and balances the restraint of ambition by ambition work outside of the formal structures of government. Our corporate clericalists are angry at Trumps trade war with China. They are willing to deploy their powers against any fundamentalist Christian preacher getting too rowdy with a Koran on their platforms. But they say not a word about the Chinese government they are partnered with building concentration camps for Muslims. If Republicans retain their offices, it will be because one section of America sees that the deity Pete Buttigieg refers to as my creator is a jealous God, and will allow no other Gods before him. More from National Review The Food and Drug Administration just added an unexpected twist to a simmering controversy over a rare disease drug that earlier this year briefly became a poster child for high-priced medicines. In a surprise move, the agency approved a medicine from Jacobus Pharmaceuticals, a small, family-run company, for treating a neuromuscular disorder called Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, or LEMS, for children ages 6 to 17. However, the approval potentially adds unforeseen competition for Catalyst Pharmaceuticals (CPRX), which only last December won an FDA endorsement to market its own treatment for adults. In after-hours trading, Catalyst stock was down as much as 44%. Heres why: The FDA approval of the Catalyst drug, called Firdapse, set off a firestorm. Until then, a few hundred LEMS patients were able for years to obtain the Jacobus drug for free under a compassionate use program sanctioned by the FDA. But with its approval, Catalyst obtained seven years of market exclusivity, which meant Jacobus and compound pharmacies could no longer market their versions. The move created an uproar because Catalyst decided to charge $375,000 list price, depending upon total patient dosing, for Firdapse. In February, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), whos made high drug prices a raison detre, accused the drug maker of corporate greed and immoral exploitation. And he asked the FDA to permit Jacobus and compounders to resume suppliers of their treatments. The agency appears to have heeded the call. Jacobus has not yet disclosed a price for its drug, called Ruzurgi. But by approving it for children, the agency is making it possible for physicians to prescribe the Jacobus drug for any patient, regardless of age, because doctors are free to prescribe medicines for unapproved or so-called off-label uses. Interestingly, the FDA approval was predicated, in part, on data from studies involving adults. If its on the market for children, it can be prescribed for adults, said Dr. Donald Sanders, a Duke University researcher who worked with the Jacobus family when they first developed their LEMS drug and later helped design the clinical trial that was submitted to the FDA. I dont know of any drug that is approved for adults with LEMS other than Firdapse, but we already use many other medicines off label to treat LEMS. This sounds like a workaround. Story continues An FDA spokeswoman sent us this: The decision to treat a patient with a drug for an unapproved use is up to the treating health care professional and generally speaking, the practice of medicine is not regulated by the FDA. Good medical practice and the best interests of the patient require that physicians use legally available drugs, biologics, and devices according to their best knowledge and judgement. Meanwhile, PiperJaffray analyst Joseph Catanzaro wrote this: While this is a different label indication than Firdapses adult LEMS label, it will no doubt raise questions around whether Ruzurgi will be used off-label in adult patients and whether Firdapse will be able to maintain the orphan drug price point it set at launch. However, we suspect that there will be legal questions around whether the approval of Ruzurgi infringes on Firdapses orphan drug exclusivity in LEMS. We see this approval by the FDA simply as a way to combat the pricing rhetoric that has surrounded Firdapse since its approval late last year and bring a potential competitor to the market, he continued, adding that there are questions around whether the adult and pediatric populations represent two distinct orphan diseases. The uncertainty helps explain investor reaction to the FDA approval, which was announced late Monday. A spokesman for Catalyst, which had indicated there are as many as 3,000 LEMS patients in the U.S., declined to comment. However, there are some extenuating factors. For one thing, a doctor may prescribe the Jacobus drug, but that doesnt mean an insurance company will automatically provide coverage. Sometimes, insurers will not cover off-label use, although in this instance, the price of the Catalyst drug may provide some impetus if the Jacobus drug costs significantly less. As of Monday night, Laura Jacobus, who runs the privately held company, said a final decision hasnt been made. I havent given it much thought. This decision just came in, but obviously, it will be less than what theyre charging, she told us. But were carrying over the last 27 years the research, development, the compassionate use manufacturing. Were probably $60 million in the hole. And the post-approval commitments are probably (going to cost) $10 million to $20 million. Read more: Laura Jacobus hopes to provide her newly approved drug at little or no cost to patients However, she declined to discuss off-label usage. We assume we cant take care of adult patients, but wed like to take care of pediatric patients, she said. Thats a role were pleased to provide. One patient who had been taking the Jacobus drug under the compassionate use program but was forced to switch to Firdapse, told us she is excited by the approval. She is among several Firdapse patients who have complained the medicine is not as effective as the older Jacobus treatment. Oh my goodness, this is very good news, said Rebecca Hovde, who lives in Wellman, Iowa. I will definitely ask my doctor to switch to the Jacobus drug now. Taking his previous statements even further, Interior Secretary David Bernhardt told lawmakers Tuesday that he is not obligated to combat climate change because there is no law requiring that he do so. Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) pressed the newly confirmed agency chief on how he views his role in fighting the global warming crisis during a hearing of a House Appropriations subcommittee. Isnt this your job? she asked. Bernhardt responded by noting that there are over 600 instances in the law directing the Interior Department secretary to do certain things, including completing reports and making certain authorizations, but, he said, there is no such mandate for addressing planetary warming. You know what theres not is a shall for I shall manage the land to stop climate change, or something similar to that, he said, pointing the finger at Congress. You guys come up with the shalls, he added. Pingree swung back at Bernhardts assertion that he is not legally required to take any action to rein in greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change. If theres something legally stopping you, were Congress, she said. We make the laws. Let us know. Well work on that for you. Interior Secretary David Bernhardt testifies Tuesday before a House Appropriations subcommittee on the Interior Department's budget request. The hearing was the first of two appearances Bernhardt has before Congress this week to defend the Trump administrations 2020 budget request, which calls for a 14% cut in funding for the Department of the Interior. But a good portion of the discussion focused on climate change, environmental protections and an ethics investigation against Bernhardt and several other agency officials. A sobering United Nations report released Monday found that up to 1 million species of land and marine species are at risk of extinction due to human actions. Neither Bernhardt nor the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, an agency he oversees and that is primarily responsible for safeguarding the nations imperiled species, issued a statement about the report. Rep. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), the subcommittees chair, quoted from the U.N. report and told Bernhardt the country is depending on you to help lead the fight along with us to combat these issues, including the biodiversity and climate crises. She asked Bernhardt how he would incorporate the scientific findings into the agencys activities and asked if he would rethink the administrations push to boost domestic energy production. Story continues Are we going to stop oil and gas development because of this report? The answer to that is no, Bernhardt said. Congress, you all, have the ability to decide whether we do anything on federal lands. ... If you have a view on what you want to happen, well carry it out when you execute it. That is my position. Bernhardt, a former oil and gas lobbyist who was confirmed as agency secretary last month, told the subcommittee that he recognizes that the climate is changing, that human beings are a contributing factor and that the agency is taking the threat into account in its decision-making. A pair of dire reports released last year, one from the United Nations and another from more than a dozen federal U.S. agencies, warned that world governments are running out of time to stave off catastrophic climate change. Still, the Trump administration has barreled ahead with its fossil fuel-centric energy dominance agenda. Approximately one-quarter of all U.S. greenhouse gas emissions come from fossil fuel extraction on federal lands, according to a government report released by the Trump administration in November. Bernhardt, who brought with him to the job a slew of potential conflicts of interest from his days as an energy lobbyist, also faced tough questions Tuesday about alleged ethics violations. Interiors internal watchdog recently opened two ethics probes the first of them just four days into Bernhardts tenure into multiple high-ranking interior officials, including the secretary. Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) accused Bernhardt of working on behalf of corporate interests rather than the public. Bernhardt stressed, as he has before, that he takes ethics extremely seriously, is working to improve the agencys ethics program and is confident that he has complied with all rules and will be cleared at the end of the investigation. I take offense to the concept about profiting and your allegation that Im here to do the bidding of..., Bernhardt said. Prove me wrong, sir, Quigley interjected. I came here just like you to do the work of the public, Bernhardt said. The two also traded verbal blows at the end of the hearing after Quigley questioned Bernhardt about his decision last week to roll back key offshore drilling safety regulations adopted in the wake of the catastrophic 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. I appreciate that you havent lost the fervor and enthusiasm you had in protecting your previous clients in your previous life, Quigley said. Im for making the people of America better off and safer, Bernhardt responded. Starting with your former clients, Quigley snapped back. By Esha Vaish STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Swedish luxury electric carmaker Polestar, which is jointly owned by Volvo Cars and its Chinese parent Geely, is setting up an R&D center in Britain to develop future passenger cars, it said on Wednesday. The move comes as Britain's impending exit from the European Union has dented UK car manufacturing, prompting several carmakers to cut local production and warn that Brexit was deterring suppliers and EU workers. Polestar, whose cars are known for their signature Polestar gold seat belts, said there were no special considerations about Brexit in making its decision as the move was more about tapping existing engineering expertise in the UK. Polestar intends to initially employ 60 engineers in Britain and expand its team over the rest of the year. "Polestar's role as a technology spearhead requires new and developing skills in low-volume, light-weight, multi-material performance car engineering. The UK operation will allow us to take the next steps towards our future cars," R&D head Hans Pehrson said in a statement. A spokesman for the company, which hopes to offer its cars largely via a monthly subscription model that covers insurance and maintenance cost, declined to say what segments or models they were exploring. The company is currently manufacturing its only hybrid, Polestar 1, in China, and unveiled its mass market sedan, Polestar 2, a competitor to Tesla's Model 3, earlier this year. It has also promised the market an electric coupe-style SUV, Polestar 3, in 2021, just after the expected launch of Tesla's Model Y SUV, with both carmakers betting that mass market customers are on the verge of adopting battery technology. The UK site, whose cost will be borne by Polestar, will be the marquee's first independent facility, with the company having so far relied on Volvo for its R&D capacity. The move comes as Volvo courts Chinese and U.S. tech investors to buy a stake in Polestar. Volvo Chief Executive Hakan Samuelsson hopes it will valued at a tech multiple like Tesla and Nio rather than auto incumbents. (Reporting by Esha Vaish in Stockholm; Editing by Alexandra Hudson) On Monday, New Jersey senator Cory Booker introduced a gun-control plan thats much more restrictive than those of his rivals for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination. At the heart of Bookers proposal is a requirement that American citizens must, in order to own a gun, get a license from the federal government and renew it every five years. Individuals could seek a gun license at a designated local office, widely available in urban and rural areas, similar to applying for or renewing a passport, the proposal explains. They would submit fingerprints, provide basic background information, and demonstrate completion of a certified gun safety course. The FBI would then verify submission of required materials and run a comprehensive background check before issuing a federal gun license, after which the license-holder could freely purchase and own firearms. The idea of federal licensing and registration for gun owners has been around for years, but its something that neither Hillary Clinton nor Barack Obama ran on during the 2008 Democratic primary, and its gained little traction since then. Some congressional Democrats and Republicans who have supported new gun-control legislation in recent years are quick to dismiss Bookers licensing-and-registration scheme. I dont agree with that, Senator Susan Collins (R., Maine) tells National Review. Senator Jon Tester (D., Mont.), who, like Collins, voted in 2013 against the federal assault-weapons ban but backed legislation expanding federal background checks, immediately rejected the idea with a simple yeah when asked if he opposes it. But most Senate Democrats tell National Review they cant comment on the general policy of national gun licensing and registration until they read Bookers plan. We need serious gun-safety legislation, but I have not yet seen Corys [plan], says Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. I havent seen it, Senator Kamala Harris of California says. As you know, Im a proponent of smart gun-safety laws, and Ive indicated pretty publicly that Congress fails to act. Story continues Democratic senators Sherrod Brown, Bob Casey, Tim Kaine, Sheldon Whitehouse, and Patty Murray similarly tell NR they cant comment on the policy because they have not seen Bookers plan. Booker has served in the Senate since October 2013, but he introduced this plan only a few months into his presidential campaign. (Booker is currently garnering the support of 2.5 percent of Democratic primary voters in an average of national polls.) Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut went a step further than his colleagues by praising Booker, though without endorsing the New Jersey senators plan. I think he makes a very valid point that we often require a lot more paperwork to buy and own a pet than we do a gun, and I think that a lot of responsible gun owners that I talk to in Connecticut dont have any problem with licensing requirements or training requirements. So I think its a really interesting proposal, Murphy says. Im really glad hes decided to make this a centerpiece of his campaign. Senator Mazie Hirono of Hawaii initially indicates she supports national licensing and registration. Yes, cause we have way too many guns in our country, and we have major loopholes in who can get access to get their hands on these guns, she says. But she then adds that she doesnt want to get into the specifics of Bookers plan. My guess is itll go nowhere, says Republican senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin. Even in the Democratic primary, therell be a real problem for Booker. While the Democratic party has been pushed sharply to the left on health-care policy by Senator Bernie Sanderss Medicare for All plan and on environmental policy by Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs Green New Deal, it does not appear at the moment that Bookers gun-control plan will have a similar effect. Most of the 2020 Democratic presidential candidates are in the same position as the 2008 Democratic presidential candidates were: They wont go beyond supporting the assault-weapons ban and universal background checks, and have little hope of securing the votes, even in a Democratic Congress, to pass either measure. More from National Review Ahrys Art/iStock(LONDON) For decades, a missing piece of sarsen stone from Englands famed Stonehenge monument was thought to have been lost during archaeological excavations. This week, the organization that takes care of Stonehenge announced the missing stone had been returned by a man living in Florida. Researchers say the discovery could help uncover the origin of Stonehenge, which dates back to 3000 BC and is one of the worlds most visited ancient monuments. The last thing we ever expected was to get a call from someone in America telling us they had a piece of Stonehenge, said Heather Sebire, the Stonehenge curator for English Heritage, the caretaker organization. Lifesize Stonehenge Replica 'Foamhenge' Needs New Home The stone was removed in 1958, when a diamond cutting company was brought in to do repair work on the neolithic monument. Cracks had appeared in one of the giant stones, and three rods from the sarsens core were drilled out to make room for metal enforcements. The repairs were covered by small plugs cut from sarsen fragments, making them inconspicuous, according to English Heritage. One of the companys employees, Robert Phillips, held on to one of those rods, and for years even displayed it in his office. Later, when he moved to the United States, he brought it with him, English Heritage said. But on the eve of his 90th birthday, Phillips, who now lives in Florida, decided to return the stone to the care of English Heritage and, last year, his two sons traveled to Stonehenge to deliver it to Sebire, the curator. The stone could help solve a mystery that has long bedeviled archaeologists and geologists, according to David Nash, a professor at Brighton University who is leading a project at Stonehenge. An analysis of the sarsens core will hopefully tell us where the different stones came from, he said. The whereabouts of the other two core pieces are still unknown, English Heritage said. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. DENVER Voters in the Mile High City appeared to have voted down a first-in-the nation plan to decriminalize the use and possession of "magic mushrooms" known for sending users on psychedelic journeys. Unofficial results released by city election officials Tuesday night suggested Measure 301 was on track to fail, with 46.5% in favor and 54.5% opposed. Denver District Attorney Beth McCann opposed the measure. According to her office, only 11 of more than 9,000 drug cases referred for possible prosecution between 2016 and 2018 involved psilocybin. Prosecutors filed charges of possession with intent to manufacture or distribute in three of those cases. Advocates say the mushrooms, which contain the hallucinogen psilocybin, have been used safely for thousands of years, and may provide an alternative treatment for opiate addiction and mental health troubles, as well as spiritual insight. Users report bright lights and colors and a sense of connection with something greater than themselves. A vendor bags psilocybin mushrooms at a pop-up cannabis market in Los Angeles on Monday, May 6, 2019. Denver was the first major city to hold a public vote on decriminalizing such substances. Before the results were tallied, Decriminalize Denver campaign director Kevin Matthews, 33, said the measure had already proven to be a victory. The group collected more than 9,000 signatures to place the question before voters, mostly outside grocery stores and music venues. Tonight. it was win or learn," Matthews said. "At the very least, weve demonstrated that we can get psilocybin legislation on the ballot. My mindset is that its not a loss, its a lesson. Measure 301 would have decriminalized the personal possession and consumption of psilocybin and other hallucinogenic mushrooms for adults, and made prosecution of cases a low law enforcement priority in the city. The measure would have also created a task force, including police, elected officials and psilocybin advocates, to study what impact decriminalization had on the city over the next two years. Story continues A lot of people who signed our petition said they are tired of seeing people going to jail over what they choose to put in their body," Matthews said. Matthews said making the drug legal could have helped with mental health and addiction problems. Potentially the American people are ready for a new conversation around our nations drug priorities," Matthews said. "Its a signal to the rest of the country that at least here in Denver we are ready to start removing some of these substances off the controlled substances list. Psilocybin has been classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance since 1970 by the federal government. That means it is considered a drug with with high abuse potential and no accepted medical value. It also means that university research and possession of the drug are prohibited under federal law. Marijuana, which is already legal across Colorado, is also a Schedule 1 drug. Rock groups such as the Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers Band frequently used images of mushrooms in their logos, T-shirts and other merchandise. A voter casts her ballot at the Denver Elections Division Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Denver. Voters decided against making Denver the first U.S. city to decriminalize the use of psilocybin, the psychoactive substance in "magic mushrooms." The initiative would not have allowed the mushrooms to be sold under Denvers cannabis businesses. Colorado, along with Washington, became the first states to allow recreational marijuana for adults over the age of 21 in November 2012. Contributing: Associated Press This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Denver says no to 'magic mushrooms': Historic vote on psilocybin unlikely to pass An 18-year-old student was killed and eight other students were injured after two shooters opened fire on a science and technology school in the Denver area on Tuesday. The gunmen entered two classrooms in different locations deep inside STEM School Highlands Ranch and began shooting at students, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said at a press conference. Deputies responded two minutes after receiving reports of shots fired within the school shortly before 2 p.m. It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in todays #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the student is stating its an 18 year old male. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 8, 2019 Authorities identified one suspect as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. The other suspect, initially described as a juvenile male but later identified as a female, has not been named. Both were believed to be students at the school, located in Highlands Ranch, 25 miles south of Denver. Law enforcement officials said Wednesday that Erickson, a graduating senior, is to appear in court in the afternoon. They are considering charging the juvenile suspect as an adult, but will wait to see what the investigation reveals, District Attorney George Brauchler said. Police were spotted in and outside Ericksons family home on Tuesday night, The Denver Post reported. A white Honda sedan that had the numbers 666 spray-painted on its hood was towed from the property. A neighbor, who described Erickson as a quiet kid, told the paper he was shocked by the allegations against the young man. Honda towed, seized from home of #STEMschool suspect. A pentagram was spray painted on hood, with the numbers 666. pic.twitter.com/EvlowsDvqe kieran nicholson (@kierannicholson) May 8, 2019 Spurlock said at least one handgun was used during the attack. Story continues This is a terrible event. This is something that no one wants to have happen in their community, the sheriff said. Were going to investigate that and get to the bottom of it. Eight students were taken to local hospitals, some in critical condition. Kendrick Castillo, an 18-year-old male student, died. Three students remained in intensive care as of Wednesday morning, law enforcement said. Little kids getting ready to be bussed to safe location where parents will be able to pick up pic.twitter.com/f6LTBl0INJ Ashley Michels (@ReporterAshley) May 7, 2019 Jake Stanley, a 14-year-old student, told Denver 7 ABC there was some panic after the middle school and high school portions of the campus were placed on lockdown. Everybody was a little bit panicked. We didnt know what was going on, he told the news station. We could tell it was bad and it wasnt just a drill. About 1,800 students attend STEM School Highlands Ranch, which has kindergarten through 12th grade classes. Just look at these babies faces. This is what happens when those in power dont do their job. The value of a piece of metal should be no where near the value of a humans life. #StemShootingpic.twitter.com/U5yQR1uhz8 Diego Garcia (@Diego4Change) May 8, 2019 Shortly after the shooting broke out, Gov. Jared Polis (D) said he was monitoring the situation. Im absolutely heartbroken to learn that a STEM school student was killed in the shooting today, Polis said in a tweet later Tuesday. I cannot imagine the grief & horror that the family is dealing with. Our deepest condolences go out to the family, the community, & everyone impacted by this senseless act of violence. The FBI has taken over the investigation and is at the crime scene. Officers are using a bomb disposal robot to search through a car thought to belong to the suspect. Investigators have also obtained warrants to search both of the suspects homes. The White House issued a statement hours after the shooting, noting that President Donald Trump is monitoring the situation. Our prayers are with the victims, family members, and all those affected by todays shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Littleton, Colorado, deputy press secretary Judd Deere said. Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence. Trump addressed the shooting in a tweet on Wednesday afternoon. Our Nation grieves at the unspeakable violence that took a precious young life and badly injured others in Colorado, he tweeted. Our Nation grieves at the unspeakable violence that took a precious young life and badly injured others in Colorado. God be with the families and thank you to the First Responders for bravely intervening. We are in close contact with Law Enforcement. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 According to the Denver Post, this is the fourth school shooting in Colorado since the Columbine High School shooting in Littleton on April 20, 1999, which left 12 students and one teacher dead. Highlands Ranch is just minutes from Littleton. This article has been updated with information on students who were wounded and additional comments from law enforcement officials, as well as a tweet from Donald Trump and the name of the deceased. Marina Fang contributed reporting. By Keith Coffman DENVER (Reuters) - Voters in Denver appeared to have said "no" to a plan to decriminalize possession of psilocybin, the hallucinogenic drug in what is widely known as "magic mushrooms", partial results showed. If passed, the ballot initiative would make Colorado's capital the first U.S. city to end the imposition of criminal penalties for individuals at least 21 years of age for using or possessing the psychedelic drug. But by 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday (0130 ET on Wednesday), the vote tally stood at 52.45 percent opposed to decriminalization and 47.55 percent in favor, with around 74 percent of ballots counted, according to the city's elections division. If the initiative was approved, psilocybin would still remain illegal under both Colorado and federal law. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration classifies the drug as a Schedule 1 substance, meaning the agency has deemed that it has a high potential for abuse with no accepted medical application. Decriminalize Denver, the group behind the ballot question, said psilocybin has a wide range of medical benefits. It has been shown to reduce depression and anxiety and to help in treating tobacco, alcohol and opioid addictions, and with alleviating symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to the organization. "We are decriminalizing mushrooms in Denver because the cure for trauma is connection, and mushrooms are a key," the group said on Facebook. Some opponents worry that if passed, the initiative would increase the citys image as a haven for drugs, given that Colorado was one of the first states to legalize possession and sale of marijuana for adult recreational use. Denver District Attorney Beth McCann opposes the initiative. But if the measure were approved, she supported formation of a review panel under the initiative to study the effects of the drug and the impact the ordinance would have on Denver, spokeswoman Carolyn Tyler said. Story continues Mayor Michael Hancock, who is running for re-election, has told the Denver Post that he opposes the mushroom question. Denver residents first voted to decriminalize marijuana possession in 2004, years before Colorado voters ultimately approved its legalization statewide for recreational purposes, establishing a full regulatory framework to license retail outlets and collect sales taxes on cannabis products. The psilocybin initiative is one of a handful of questions on Tuesday's municipal ballot that also includes Hancock's bid for a third term as mayor, and a measure to rescind an ordinance that restricts homeless people from establishing encampments in public places. (Additional reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee and Andrew Hay in New Mexico; Editing by Bill Berkrot and Alison Williams) Employees at Ford(F) have started to use a 3D virtual reality (VR) tool that enables them to work on designs with colleagues remotely in real time. The technology has been developed by Gravity Sketch, in collaboration with Ford. It sees workers wear headsets and use controllers to "draw, rotate, expand and compress a 3D sketch." A feature in the system, called Co-Creation, allows designers around the world to work on and evaluate designs in real time while being in different offices. The Gravity Sketch platform negates the need for an initial 2D design process, allowing designers to work with a 3D model from the start. In a statement earlier this week Michael Smith, design manager at Ford, said that the Co-Creation feature added "more voices to the conversation in a virtual environment, which results in more efficient design work that may help accelerate a vehicle program's development." Ford said that designers in five Ford studios around the world were experimenting with Gravity Sketch, looking at both "workflow feasibility" and capabilities relating to "real-time co-creation and collaboration." As technology develops, VR is starting to be used across a wide range of industries. In April 2019, for example, it was announced that Qatar Airways had partnered with Rolls-Royce(RR.-GB) to trial a VR training tool. The technology, which uses HTC Vive equipment, has been designed to give engineers virtual refresher training with Rolls-Royce's biggest engine, the Trent XWB. A few months earlier, in February, the British Army awarded a 1 million ($1.3 million) contract to a software developer to "explore how virtual reality can be integrated into soldier training." The Ministry of Defence said the pilot scheme would look to test a range of virtual reality applications. These include high resolution virtual reality headsets; avatars that can be customized to replicate facial features and body shapes; and technology that offers data capture and analysis to help soldiers "better understand their own performance." Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! The truth is that if you invest for long enough, you're going to end up with some losing stocks. Long term SRE Group Limited (HKG:1207) shareholders know that all too well, since the share price is down considerably over three years. Unfortunately, they have held through a 58% decline in the share price in that time. And over the last year the share price fell 45%, so we doubt many shareholders are delighted. Furthermore, it's down 18% in about a quarter. That's not much fun for holders. This could be related to the recent financial results - you can catch up on the most recent data by reading our company report. View our latest analysis for SRE Group There is no denying that markets are sometimes efficient, but prices do not always reflect underlying business performance. One imperfect but simple way to consider how the market perception of a company has shifted is to compare the change in the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price movement. SRE Group became profitable within the last five years. That would generally be considered a positive, so we are surprised to see the share price is down. So it's worth looking at other metrics to try to understand the share price move. With revenue flat over three years, it seems unlikely that the share price is reflecting the top line. There doesn't seem to be any clear correlation between the fundamental business metrics and the share price. That could mean that the stock was previously overrated, or it could spell opportunity now. You can see how revenue and earnings have changed over time in the image below, (click on the chart to see cashflow). SEHK:1207 Income Statement, May 8th 2019 This free interactive report on SRE Group's balance sheet strength is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further. What about the Total Shareholder Return (TSR)? We've already covered SRE Group's share price action, but we should also mention its total shareholder return (TSR). Arguably the TSR is a more complete return calculation because it accounts for the value of dividends (as if they were reinvested), along with the hypothetical value of any discounted capital that have been offered to shareholders. Its history of dividend payouts mean that SRE Group's TSR, which was a 58% drop over the last 3 years, was not as bad as the share price return. Story continues A Different Perspective We regret to report that SRE Group shareholders are down 45% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 5.5%. However, it could simply be that the share price has been impacted by broader market jitters. It might be worth keeping an eye on the fundamentals, in case there's a good opportunity. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 14% per year over five years. We realise that Buffett has said investors should 'buy when there is blood on the streets', but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality businesses. Before deciding if you like the current share price, check how SRE Group scores on these 3 valuation metrics. If you are like me, then you will not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on HK exchanges. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. WASHINGTON Democrats, Republicans and the White House agree that workers should be able to take paid time off to care for a new baby or sick family member. They differ, though, on what a federal policy should look like and who should pay for it. The issue of family and medical leave got its first hearing in the Democratic-controlled House Ways and Means Committee on Wednesday morning. Lawmakers from both parties expressed enthusiasm for acting. "Its critical that we find a way to do this and do it together," said Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla. It was also clear that Democrats and Republicans remained far apart on a solution, in a Congress deeply polarized on a wide range of other topics. Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas, the top Republican on the committee, said there are "real concerns" about a plan supported by the majority of Democratic lawmakers. Brady said there was worry such a proposal which he described as "one size fits all" would raise taxes, hurt flexibility and cost too much. He said a better route would be to give businesses flexibility to tailor leave plans for individual workers. From the Trump administration: Ivanka Trump teams up with conservatives to push Democratic themes More bipartisan opportunities: What else can Congress agree on? Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, said Americans need a bold, national paid leave policy" which in his view was the FAMILY Act, the bill being pushed by Democrats. Doggett said the Republican proposals he had seen so far that would allow new parents to take time off now at a cost of postponing Social Security later, would "undermine retirement security. Doggett called those plans "a real step backward. Paid family leave has long been a priority for Democrats who took control of the House in January. Ivanka Trump, President Donald Trump's daughter and a senior White House adviser, has made it a signature issue. Several Republicans, including Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida and Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa, are pushing family leave proposals. Story continues Optimism remains Despite a divide on how to move forward, members of the committee and activists remained hopeful. I think it's a remarkable sign of progress that attendance here on both sides was so strong. In 2014, I testified at the very first hearing solely on paid leave in a Senate (Health, Education, Labor and Pensions) subcommittee and only Democrats showed up, said Vicki Shabo, an expert on paid leave at the New America think tank, who was in the audience during the hearing. "The question isnt whether to expand paid family leave, but how best to achieve it, Brady said Wednesday. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla, a member of the Ways and Means Committee, said Tuesday she's "always optimistic" about the chances of finding common ground. "If it is true, if (Republicans) are genuine about their desire to support families then we should be able to find some middle ground on policy to help address this issue and move this country forward," Murphy said. Rep. Jackie Walorski of Indiana, one of Murphy's Republican colleagues on Ways and Means, said Tuesday she was "very optimistic" about Wednesday's hearing, even though she acknowledged that the two sides favor different types of solutions. "I think this is good movement. I think this dialogue is what Americans want to hear is that our two parties are going to come together and were going to figure out a way to make this work," she said. Senior White House advisor Ivanka Trump attends a meeting as part of the African Womens Empowerment Dialogue, on April 15, 2019, in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa. Ivanka Trump's push Ivanka Trump has met with more than 60 lawmakers on both sides of the aisle about family leave, according to a White House official. Walorski met with her last week. On Tuesday, she shared a Time Magazine article about it on Twitter that included side-by-side images of her, Rubio and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a New York Democrat, 2020 presidential candidate and vocal supporter of family leave. "Were not looking for a messaging bill, but working in earnest to develop bipartisan #PaidFamilyLeave policy that can garner the votes to be passed into law...and were making real progress towards that goal!" Ivanka Trump tweeted. Donald Trump's last three budget proposals have called for six weeks of leave for mothers, fathers and adoptive parents as part of the unemployment insurance program. But presidential budgets are largely symbolic since Congress controls the purse strings. Were not looking for a messaging bill, but working in earnest to develop bipartisan #PaidFamilyLeave policy that can garner the votes to be passed into law...and were making real progress towards that goal! https://t.co/VOQAvenIWr Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) May 7, 2019 Democrats want a broad package More than three-quarters of the House Democratic Caucus supports The FAMILY Act, which would provide up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents and people with personal or family health issues, a larger group than Republicans are discussing. It would be funded by a shared pool built by payroll contributions made by employers and employees. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., has put forth the bill four times, but Tuesday she said there finally could be movement: After many years on the margins, the issue of paid family and medical leave is finally at the center of the public discourse," she said. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Ct. (R) speaks as Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y. (3rd R) listens during a news conference February 12, 2019 on Capitol Hill in Washington, D/C. Gillibrand and DeLauro held a news conference to introduce the "Family and Medical Insurance Leave Act," or FAMILY Act. DeLauro said she's open to working across the aisle, but what Republicans have proposed so far won't get Democratic support. Mariel Saez, a spokesman for Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, said the Maryland Democrat "strongly supports paid family leave" and once the Ways and Means Committee is able to vote a bill out of committee, Hoyer's office will look at scheduling it for a full vote in the House. Any legislation would also need to pass the Senate. Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Tx., Sen. Marco Rubio. R-Fla., and Rep. Ann Wagner, R-Mo. introduce their paid family leave legislation during a news conference in the Russell Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill March 27, 2019 in Washington, D.C. Based on a legislative idea Rubio and Wagner proposed last year, the New Parents Act will provide mothers and fathers with pay while caring for a new baby by allowing them to delay drawing their future Social Security benefits. Republicans offer alternatives Republicans say the Democratic bill would amount to a tax increase, a nonstarter. There are multiple pieces of GOP-sponsored legislation that would allow new parents to take time off when they have or adopt a new baby. They would then delay their Social Security benefits when they eventually retire. While Ivanka Trump hasn't endorsed any piece of legislation she has spoken positively about the GOP efforts to address the issue. She also praised Sens. Bill Cassidy, a Louisiana Republican, and Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona Democrat, for their work to find a compromise. Ways and Means Committee is busy Despite optimism that the panel could come together on paid family leave, GOP Rep. Jason Smith of Missouri reminded the room that the committee was grappling with tensions on other topics namely a fight over Trump's tax returns. "This is an issue that we should clearly be able to work together," Smith said. "But unfortunately this Congress, and my friends on the other side, appears to be more focused on not this policy, but instead ... on a policy that goes after President Trump's tax returns." Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal is in a tug of war with the Treasury Department in an attempt to obtain six years of the president's tax returns. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has said that the department will not turn over the returns. It is likely the battle will end up in courts. Contributing: Christal Hayes Like what you're reading? Get the USA TODAY app for more This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Divided Congress takes up an Ivanka Trump signature issue: paid family leave. Can they strike a deal? GPs are being faced with stressful workloads. [Photo: Getty] When booking your next GP appointment, you should probably push for a morning appointment. Many doctors feel so drained by the afternoon that their performance may be compromised. This is according to research by Pulse magazine, which found more than half of family doctors believe they are working above safe limits. The publication took a snapshot survey on 11 February, in order to gauge an average day in the life for British GPs. Out of 1,681 GPs polled, the average doctor said they were treating 41 patients a day but believed a total of 30 would be more safe. READ MORE: Sign claims doctor quit practice over female nurse One in 10 were treating 60 patients a day twice as many as the estimated safe number. One Hertfordshire GP told Pulse: "There is a point where I feel cognitively drained; after about 20 patients, there is not an iota of empathy left." Dr Jonathan Harte, a Nottingham based GP, told the publication the risks increased throughout the day. He said: "By lunchtime, I felt on the edge and risked missing urgent tasks and contacts, thus affecting patient safety. Dr James Howarth, a GP in Spilsby, Lincolnshire, said he had dealt with 124 patients on the day of the snapshot survey. READ MORE: Doctor saves man by pumping 15 cans of beer into stomach This workload creates patient safety risks. There are risks around having multiple patient notes open because we're helping a nurse out with hers, or we're 30 minutes late so we see the next patient while finishing the notes of the last, he said. "We might forget consultant details, plans and actions, or prescribe for the wrong person, use the wrong labels on blood tests, and so on." He admitted to having sent a blood test using the wrong patient details due to the undue pressure his work placed upon him. "I spotted it in time, but how many do we fail to spot?" he added. The worrying statistics come amid news today that there is a sustained fall in GP numbers in the UK for the first time in years. GPs per 100,000 people have fallen from 65 in 2014 to 60 last year, according to an analysis by Nuffield Trust think tank on behalf of the BBC. * Attack on rebel Idlib enclave launched in late April * Ground advance backed by air strikes, barrel bombs * Twelve hospitals hit, UN says * Medics working in caves, makeshift shelters By Amina Ismail BEIRUT, May 8 (Reuters) - In part of northern Syria's last rebel enclave, doctors have pulled back into cave shelters to treat the wounded and protect their patients from a government offensive that has hit health centers and hospitals. The assault began in late April with air strikes, barrel bombs and shelling against the southern flank of the enclave, centered on Idlib province and nominally under the protection of a Russian-Turkish ceasefire agreed more than eight months ago. Limited ground advances have additionally taken place this week. "The makeshift hospitals are very primitive," Osama al-Shami, a 36-year-old doctor, told Reuters from the area. "We can barely save lives with the equipment we have and many of the injured die because of the lack of resources and equipment." The insurgents, dominated by the jihadist Tahrir al-Sham, describe the offensive as an invasion while the government accuses the rebels of violating the deal. President Bashar al-Assad has sworn to take back every inch of Syria and the enclave including Idlib is the last big bastion of the rebellion that flared against him 2011. The United Nations said last year that half of the region's 3 million inhabitants had fled their homes, and the bombing has now caused a new wave of displacement. More than 150,000 had left since April 29, The U.N. said on Tuesday, with bombs falling on over 50 villages, destroying at least 10 schools and hitting at least 12 health centers. Under the bombs, medics are turning back to tactics used at other times in the eight-year war, moving patients into shelters under buildings or hacked into the ground. Some are opening up their houses as temporary health centers, said one surgeon. But they are getting overwhelmed and Shami said several wounded children had died in his arms. Story continues "One of them was a nine-year old child who had a head and a chest injury and was severely bleeding. We tried to resuscitate him but he died within 15 minutes. There are no blood banks near by or an equipped operating theater," he said. FRENCH, BRITISH CONCERNS A war monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said that, in the latest escalation of fighting and bombardments, 188 people including 85 civilians had been killed since April 30. France's President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he had "grave concerns" over the escalation of violence in Syria including the strikes on hospitals. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt called the offensive a "flagrant violation of the ceasefire agreement." Backed by Russian air power and Iran-backed militias, Assad has retaken most of Syria. U.S.-backed Kurdish forces hold the country's northeast quarter, while control of the northwest is divided between jihadist groups and rebel factions supported by Turkey. The current government offensive is focused on the southern flank of the rebel enclave. On Wednesday, the Syrian army advanced into the town of Kafr Nabouda, rebels and a military media unit run by Assad's ally Hezbollah reported. The Observatory said fighters of Tahrir al-Sham - an incarnation of the former al-Qaeda affiliate the Nusra Front - launched a suicide attack against the army, detonating a bomb in an armored vehicle. Rebels said heavy fighting continued at the town - close to where Shami is running his makeshift clinic - while the Hezbollah media unit said the army had gained complete control of it. (Reporting By Amina Ismail, writing by Angus McDowall; editing by John Stonestreet) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! If you own shares in Vishay Precision Group, Inc. (NYSE:VPG) then it's worth thinking about how it contributes to the volatility of your portfolio, overall. In finance, Beta is a measure of volatility. Volatility is considered to be a measure of risk in modern finance theory. Investors may think of volatility as falling into two main categories. The first category is company specific volatility. This can be dealt with by limiting your exposure to any particular stock. The second sort is caused by the natural volatility of markets, overall. For example, certain macroeconomic events will impact (virtually) all stocks on the market. Some stocks mimic the volatility of the market quite closely, while others demonstrate muted, exagerrated or uncorrelated price movements. Beta can be a useful tool to understand how much a stock is influenced by market risk (volatility). However, Warren Buffett said 'volatility is far from synonymous with risk' in his 2014 letter to investors. So, while useful, beta is not the only metric to consider. To use beta as an investor, you must first understand that the overall market has a beta of one. A stock with a beta greater than one is more sensitive to broader market movements than a stock with a beta of less than one. Check out our latest analysis for Vishay Precision Group What we can learn from VPG's beta value As it happens, Vishay Precision Group has a five year beta of 1.0. This is fairly close to 1, so the stock has historically shown a somewhat similar level of volatility as the market. Using history as a guide, we might surmise that the share price is likely to be influenced by market voltility going forward but it probably won't be particularly sensitive to it. Share price volatility is well worth considering, but most long term investors consider the history of revenue and earnings growth to be more important. Take a look at how Vishay Precision Group fares in that regard, below. Story continues NYSE:VPG Income Statement, May 8th 2019 How does VPG's size impact its beta? Vishay Precision Group is a small cap stock with a market capitalisation of US$553m. Most companies this size are actively traded. Small companies often have a high beta value because the stock price can move on relatively low capital flows. So it's interesting to note that this stock historically has a beta value quite close to one. What this means for you: It is probable that there is a link between the share price of Vishay Precision Group and the broader market, since it has a beta value quite close to one. However, long term investors are generally well served by looking past market volatility and focussing on the underlying development of the business. If that's your game, metrics such as revenue, earnings and cash flow will be more useful. In order to fully understand whether VPG is a good investment for you, we also need to consider important company-specific fundamentals such as Vishay Precision Groups financial health and performance track record. I urge you to continue your research by taking a look at the following: Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for VPGs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for VPGs outlook. Past Track Record: Has VPG been consistently performing well irrespective of the ups and downs in the market? Go into more detail in the past performance analysis and take a look at the free visual representations of VPG's historicals for more clarity. Other Interesting Stocks: It's worth checking to see how VPG measures up against other companies on valuation. You could start with this free list of prospective options. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! If you own shares in Standex International Corporation (NYSE:SXI) then it's worth thinking about how it contributes to the volatility of your portfolio, overall. In finance, Beta is a measure of volatility. Volatility is considered to be a measure of risk in modern finance theory. Investors may think of volatility as falling into two main categories. The first type is company specific volatility. Investors use diversification across uncorrelated stocks to reduce this kind of price volatility across the portfolio. The other type, which cannot be diversified away, is the volatility of the entire market. Every stock in the market is exposed to this volatility, which is linked to the fact that stocks prices are correlated in an efficient market. Some stocks mimic the volatility of the market quite closely, while others demonstrate muted, exagerrated or uncorrelated price movements. Beta is a widely used metric to measure a stock's exposure to market risk (volatility). Before we go on, it's worth noting that Warren Buffett pointed out in his 2014 letter to shareholders that 'volatility is far from synonymous with risk.' Having said that, beta can still be rather useful. The first thing to understand about beta is that the beta of the overall market is one. A stock with a beta below one is either less volatile than the market, or more volatile but not corellated with the overall market. In comparison a stock with a beta of over one tends to be move in a similar direction to the market in the long term, but with greater changes in price. View our latest analysis for Standex International What we can learn from SXI's beta value Looking at the last five years, Standex International has a beta of 1.6. The fact that this is well above 1 indicates that its share price movements have shown sensitivity to overall market volatility. If the past is any guide, we would expect that Standex International shares will rise quicker than the markets in times of optimism, but fall faster in times of pessimism. Many would argue that beta is useful in position sizing, but fundamental metrics such as revenue and earnings are more important overall. You can see Standex International's revenue and earnings in the image below. Story continues NYSE:SXI Income Statement, May 8th 2019 How does SXI's size impact its beta? Standex International is a small cap stock with a market capitalisation of US$887m. Most companies this size are actively traded. It is quite common to see a small-cap stock with a beta greater than one. In part, that's because relatively few investors can influence the price of a smaller company, compared to a large company. What this means for you: Since Standex International has a reasonably high beta, it's worth considering why it is so heavily influenced by broader market sentiment. For example, it might be a high growth stock or have a lot of operating leverage in its business model. This article aims to educate investors about beta values, but it's well worth looking at important company-specific fundamentals such as Standex Internationals financial health and performance track record. I highly recommend you dive deeper by considering the following: Future Outlook: What are well-informed industry analysts predicting for SXIs future growth? Take a look at our free research report of analyst consensus for SXIs outlook. Past Track Record: Has SXI been consistently performing well irrespective of the ups and downs in the market? Go into more detail in the past performance analysis and take a look at the free visual representations of SXI's historicals for more clarity. Other Interesting Stocks: It's worth checking to see how SXI measures up against other companies on valuation. You could start with this free list of prospective options. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. One of the country's biggest veterinary chains has said the number of adder attacks it treats has increased by 208%. Stock image. (Getty) Dog owners have been warned to be wary after a huge increase in the number of potentially fatal adder bites. In April, more than 2,000 dog owners sought advice about adder bites from Vets Now compared to 659 queries in the same month last year, an increase of 208% year-on-year. In the last week of April alone their vets gave dogs anti-venom after attacks in Ipswich, Preston, Derby, Colchester, Southampton and Glasgow. Vets say the snakes are more agitated than usual at this time of year because they have just come out of hibernation. Adder, Vipera berus, male coiled on rock, UK Adder bites have been fatal to humans though this is uncommon with dogs a much more likely casualty. Dave Leicester, head of clinical intelligence at Vets Now, has drawn up an advice guide on what to do if a dog is bitten by an adder. He said: Adder bites are more frequent in the spring when the snakes are just out of hibernation. Adders will only bite a dog in self-defence. Generally, bites occur when a snake is stepped on or disturbed. Most adder bites occur on a dogs legs or face and typically result in a dark, painful swelling. Owners may also be able to see two small puncture wounds in the centre of the swelling. The swelling can become severe and may result in breathing difficulties, as a consequence of an allergic reaction to the toxin, particularly if the dog has been bitten around the head and neck. Eventually, if left untreated, dogs may collapse, have blood clotting problems, tremors or convulsions. Thats why its vitally important owners rush them to a vet as early as possible. Raven the Weimaraner who suffered an adder bite. (Handout) Raven the Weimaraner was bitten by an adder during a heathland walk and took nearly a week to recover after the snakes venom caused her face to swell up enormously. Owner Caz Terrell was out with the Weimaraner near their home in Woodbridge, Suffolk, when she encountered the snake, although it wasnt until hours later when Ravens face ballooned that she realised they needed a vet. Caz said: It was very worrying. I have come across most things in my time breeding these dogs, but Ive never had to deal with a snake bite. Story continues Although adder numbers are said to be in decline, there are an estimated 100,000 across Europe. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Just one man and four countries want UK to remain in EU Royal baby will not suffer racism in UK Tributes pour in to big hearted soldier killed by elephant A study by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) found that most adder bites occur between April and July. It also revealed that nine in 10 dogs develop signs within 12 hours. These typically include swelling, lethargy, high temperature and heart problems. Survival rates are high, however, with fewer than one in 20 adder bite victims dying. While adders can be found throughout Britain, they are most prevalent in the south of England. Life was short and sometimes brutal for many of the dogs of China's Shang Dynasty. New research shows that most of the canines sacrificed during this Bronze Age were just puppies, with some of them buried alive. The Shang Dynasty ruled China's Yellow River Valley between 1600 B.C. and 1046 B.C., the second of China's dynasties, following the Xia, which was established around 2070 B.C. The Shang practiced both animal and human sacrifice, disposing of sacrificial remains in burials pits, or laying the sacrifices to rest in the tombs of the dead. Dogs, in particular, were often buried in pits just below the torso of the deceased, perhaps to act as an eternal guard in the afterlife. Surprisingly, though, most of these eternal guard dogs were puppies, said Roderick Campbell, an archaeologist at New York University's Institute for the Study of the Ancient World. [25 Cultures That Practiced Human Sacrifice] "Puppies, that sounds horrible," Campbell told Live Science. "Why would you sacrifice a cute little puppy? On the other hand, if it's not your puppy and if you're living in a society where you don't have the same assumptions of dogs and cuteness it's a cheaper investment in the animal. You don't have to raise it yourself." Sacrificial pups Campbell and his colleague Zhipeng Li of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences rounded up data from multiple Shang Dynasty sites where dog sacrifices occurred and published the research in March in the journal Archaeological Research in Asia. It's difficult for foreign scientists to get excavation permits in China, Campbell said, so the data came largely from older finds by a variety of researchers. Dogs, Campbell said, have been used in rituals in China for as long as archaeological evidence extends; there are dog burials dating back 9,000 years at the Neolithic settlement of Jiahu. Pigs were also commonly sacrificed by the ancient Chinese, Campbell said. But over the course of the Bronze Age, he said, sheep, goats and cattle became more commonly sacrificed, perhaps because increasing trade ties with western Eurasia brought these animals to China's central plains. Inscriptions on oracle bones suggest that dogs continued to be sacrificed, particularly to the gods of the sky. It's possible, Campbell said, that these sacrifices to the sky gods were old traditions, established when dogs and pigs were the most common sacrificial animal. Story continues In one find in the ancient city of Zhengzhou, archaeologists uncovered eight neatly arranged pits containing the remains of 92 tied-up dogs, some of which may have been buried alive. [Photos: Prehistoric Dog Graveyard Discovered in Siberia] Dogs begin showing up in human tombs during the Erligang culture, which populated the modern-day province of Henan around 1500 B.C. These sacrifices were found in places similar to where human sacrifices might be found, Campbell said: buried below the tomb inhabitant or interred on a ledge or in a niche. The researchers at first assumed that these were beloved pets, sent with their masters to the afterlife. But an analysis of the bones found, instead, that 73% were less than a year old when they died, and 37% were younger than 6 months. If the dogs were pets, you'd expect them to be of all ages, Campbell said. Almost human Instead, the dogs may have been stand-ins for human sacrifices, Campbell said. Shang Dynasty elites often sent concubines and slaves to their deaths, burying their bodies in the tombs of the rich and powerful. Many of these sacrifices were probably war prisoners, Campbell said. Their bones suggest that the sacrifices often came from elsewhere and had been poorly treated, sometimes for years, before being executed. For the less-well-off, dogs might have made a cheaper alternative. Canines have always played a different role in human history than livestock like pigs or cattle. "They're much more in a liminal zone between what counts for people and what counts for non-people," he said. Dog sacrifice substituting for human sacrifice would fit with other trends seen in the Shang Dynasty, Campbell said. For example, people were sometimes buried with miniaturized ceramics or fake bronzes for the afterlife, rather than real goods. Even today, traditional Chinese funeral practices involve burning paper items and fake money as a symbolic offering, Campbell said. A puppy might be a miniature stand-in for a full-grown guard dog (or guard human). In the days before spaying and neutering, puppies may have also been easy to come by. Campbell and Li estimate that a mere 500 adult dogs could have provided enough pups to supply the sacrificial needs of the Shang at any given time. It's possible, Campbell said, that dogs were raised specifically for sacrifice. Alternatively, the puppies may simply have been unwanted strays, rounded up whenever the need arose. "From a Bronze-Age economic perspective, that seems like a likely avenue," Campbell said. Still, there are a lot of questions about Shang Dynasty practices, particularly how or if ordinary rural people practiced these same sacrificial traditions. "We've been focused on palaces and kings for pretty much 100 years in Shang studies," Campbell said. "I think that's given us a really warped perspective on that society. I would really like to see more work done on villages." Originally published on Live Science. WASHINGTON The White House said Wednesday that President Donald Trump has asserted executive privilege over special counsel Robert Muellers report into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election. The decision, announced by White House press secretary Sarah Sanders, came as the House Judiciary Committee debated whether to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to provide the entire unredacted report to lawmakers. The decision marks the first time in Trump's presidency that he has invoked his protective powers to withhold information from the public and likely sets up a protracted legal battle between the administration and congressional Democrats, who have been pushing for access to the full 448-page report and its underlying evidence. By asserting executive privilege, the White House is denying Congress access to the evidence gathered during Mueller's investigation. The House Judiciary Committee has issued subpoenas for the materials. President Donald Trump In a statement, Sanders argued the administration had no choice but to assert executive privilege given the actions of the committee and its chairman, Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y. The American people see through Chairman Nadlers desperate ploy to distract from the Presidents historically successful agenda and our booming economy, Sanders said. Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands." At Wednesday's hearing, Nadler called the administration's move a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance of Congress." Contempt: House Judiciary Committee meets to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt Like what you're reading?: Download the USA TODAY app for more Sanders argued that Barr has been transparent and accommodating, including by releasing a redacted version of Mueller report to the public and offering to testify before the committee. Story continues These attempts to work with the committee have been flatly rejected, she said. They didnt like the results of the report, and now they want a redo. In remarks to reporters, Sanders repeated Trump's belief that Mueller and others should not have to testify before the House and that the Mueller report should be the last word on the Russia investigation. "This is over," Sanders said. Mueller found no collusion with the Trump campaign, she said, and House Democrats only want to keep casting suspicion on Trump. "If Bob Mueller couldnt find it, I am 100 percent sure that Jerry Nadler is not going to find anything that Bob Mueller couldnt," Sanders said. Sanders also said Democrats want to see classified information and grand jury material that is confidential by law. "Chairman Nadler is asking the attorney general of the United States to break the law and commit a crime by releasing information that he knows he has no legal authority to have," she said. At Wednesday's House Judiciary Committee hearing, Nadler introduced an amendment to the contempt citation against Barr, rejecting Trumps claim of executive privilege to block access to the report. Nadler said the privilege assertion is not a valid claimbecause executive privilege has been broadly waived in this case as a matter of law and fact. "Accordingly, the last-minute claims of the protective blanket assertion of executive privilege over the entirety of the subpoenaed materials does not change the fact that Attorney General William P. Barr is in contempt of Congress today for failing to turn over lawfully subpoenaed documents. Throughout Wednesdays session, Democrats repeatedly attacked the administrations executive privilege claim. This is not about executive privilege, this is about burying the evidence, said Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif. Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., shot back, saying the hearing merely represented Democrats denial of the presidents election. More: 'Slow-motion constitutional car crash': Trump, Congress battle over investigations with no end in sight More: Congress could hold AG William Barr in contempt. How often does that happen? This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump asserts executive privilege over Mueller report as House panel debates holding attorney general in contempt By Oscar Lopez MEXICO CITY, May 7 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Hundreds of people living with HIV in Mexico may have gone without life-saving treatment for weeks, health advocates said on Tuesday, while welcoming announcements from the Mexican government that it was working to resolve the drug shortage. The announcements followed a months-long outcry from activists, health experts and people with HIV that a drug shortage was imminent because of changes in the way the government bought medicines. "(Authorities) have felt the pressure of the media, of civil society associations and they had to respond in some way, Aaron Rojas, program manager at Inspira Cambio, a local HIV organization, said. "Now what we have to do is ensure that those who are in charge of all these processes are really aware of what a (drug) shortage implies and why they should be doing the purchasing in a timely manner," Rojas said. Mexico's health ministry said on Monday that it would address the lack of HIV drugs wherever it had been reported. The health secretary also said that there was enough medication to cover patients until new supplies of drugs could be purchased, and if any specific medicine did run out, patients would be given an equivalent or superior regimen. "The instruction is not to suspend treatment for any of the 97,000 people who receive medication to control HIV infection," it said in a statement. Also on Monday, the health ministry in Mexico City assured users of its two HIV-focused public health clinics that it had a sufficient supply of drugs, and that it would "guarantee distribution for patients." Before the recent change in the way medicines are bought, the National Centre for the Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS (Censida) had overseen the purchase of HIV drugs for patients in the "Popular Insurance" health program. But in March, the Mexican government announced that drug purchases would be overseen by the Finance Ministry, as part of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors efforts to centralize government spending and root out graft. Story continues These bureaucratic changes caused a delay in drug buying, according to advocates, resulting in clinics across Mexico being left without certain medicines to treat HIV, health advocates said. The shortage is a serious concern in a country where, as of 2016, there were some 220,000 people living with the disease, according to the United Nations. Many in the Lopez Obrador administration were unaware of the public health crisis that a drug shortage could cause, health advocates said. Until last week, there was really no information in the upper echelons of government on the level of emergency that not having enough medicines could mean," Jorge Diaz, a legislative aide who is HIV+, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. "There was a bit of a breakdown in communication, and if it hadn't been for the actions of organizations and activists who understood what was going on, (the crisis) never would have come out last week." With assurances from authorities at all levels that the drug shortage will be solved, advocates say they are increasingly confident that the Lopez Obrador administration is finally taking the issue seriously. But in the meantime, hundreds of people could still be left without drugs while the medicines are bought and distributed, and also face considerable health impacts as a result of interrupting their treatment. "Until now... there are only declarations," said Diaz. "I think there is a pretty clear plan for the purchase of medicines. But that doesn't resolve the crisis." (Reporting by Oscar Lopez; Editing by Jason Fields; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's and LGBT+ rights, human trafficking, property rights and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org) The Duke and Duchess of Sussex reveal their newborn son to the world [Photo: PA] This afternoon, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex debuted their newborn son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the world. For the highly-anticipated reveal, the 37-year-old new mum dressed her post-baby bump in a sleeveless trench dress by Vogue Fashion Fund prize winner, Grace Wales Bonner. READ MORE: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry name their son Archie The sartorial move further demonstrates Meghans independent approach to royal life and of course, only reminds us of her fashionable know-how. She accessorised the designer ensemble with co-ordinating suede heels, a Jennifer Meyer turquoise necklace and kept her hair in loose waves - a far cry from her polished bun. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex debut their newborn son to the world [Photo: PA] The Duchess of Sussex was widely praised online for highlighting her post-baby bump with social media users crediting her body-positive message. Dear Meghan Markle, Thank you for coming out still with a little bump. Signed, Pregnant women everywhere. pic.twitter.com/mcpPTakGk3 Rachael Dierkes WTRF (@RDierkesWTRF) May 8, 2019 I very rarely have any opinion on Royal goings on, but I think it's brilliant that Meghan Markle chose to embrace her post-partum bump. Every woman is different after giving birth and it's great that someone high profile has been able to represent that. Amy (@AmyxJean) May 8, 2019 I know nothing about being pregnant but I enjoy the fact that Meghan Markle is showing off her post-baby bump so prominently with that belted dress. Elizabeth Sile (@esile1) May 8, 2019 It feels like shes sending a really nice body positive message to new moms everywhere with this choice and Im here for it. Elizabeth Sile (@esile1) May 8, 2019 I don't care about royal families, but I do care about the history of pregnancy & reproduction - especially our cultural obsession with postnatal bodies. So I love that Meghan Markle chose an outfit that shows off her post-baby bump. #NormalizeIt pic.twitter.com/hfQKhp5qZt Jacqueline Antonovich (@jackiantonovich) May 8, 2019 While others joked that the royal made a brave decision choosing to wear white so soon after welcoming a newborn child. Story continues A white dress 3 days after giving birth? #BabySussex #MeghanMarkle Hayley Peters (@HayleyPetersPR) May 8, 2019 I LOVE the fact #meghanmarkle still has her post partum bump going on- but a WHITE dress!???? #postpartum #royalbaby sLaPdAsH_mama (@susiepkmelb) May 8, 2019 The former actress previously wore a similar ensemble for a trip to the Nelson Mandela Centenary Exhibition in London on July 17, 2018. For the outing, she demonstrated how to tackle a great British heatwave in a blush pink sleeveless trench by Canadian brand House of Nonie. In a less-than-surprising statement, she teamed the protocol-breaking look with a co-ordinating 600 clutch by Mulberry and 520 Dior shoes. But some royal fans were left disappointed that the self-confessed feminist decided to participate in the royal baby photocall just two days after giving birth. One wrote [sic], Just when I was cheering Meghan Markle for avoiding a royal baby perp walk in a fancy dress & heels as Kate always does, she shows up in a white(!) dress and stilettos. All I wanted was for Meghan Markle to come on TV with her hair in a towel, face mask on, wearing a juicy tracksuit eating a snickers, another added. Just when I was cheering Meghan Markle for avoiding a royal baby perp walk in a fancy dress & heels as Kate always does, she shows up in a white(!) dress and stilettos. https://t.co/3X69CIX8RO Cynthia Needham (@CynthiaNeedham) May 8, 2019 Jeez. Feel quite sorry for Meghan Markle having to dress up and put makeup on right after giving birth. I'd be wanting to chill the F out. Ashiana Pradhan (@thetrufflegirl) May 8, 2019 All I wanted was for Meghan Markle to come on TV with her hair in a towel, face mask on, wearing a juicy tracksuit eating a snickers like I JUST HAD A BABY FUCK OFF PLZ, but nah shes in a long white blazer dress , heels & a full face of makeup, wild. (@lucyeversonice) May 8, 2019 my girls #MeghanMarkle gave birth like 48 hours ago and she already has to pretend to be awake, full face of makeup, pristine white dress and heels for the camera. deadset legend sarah (@sarahbeeysian) May 8, 2019 Heartbreaking news from London: they made Meghan Markle walk down a very long hallway in a white dress just two days after giving birth. Shira Danan (@srdanan) May 8, 2019 The publicity move is a first for the royal family however, as the Duchess of Cambridge gave same-day Lindo Wing exits for all three children. * 'New economics' seeks definition of progress beyond GDP * Attempt to take ecology and climate into account * Global studies point towards looming environmental disaster * Proposals gaining ground in some countries By Matthew Green LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - The science is in: the endless pursuit of economic growth is devouring the foundations of life on Earth, and no country rich or poor can expect to escape dire consequences if things go on as they are. So how might the world change course? Though still confined to the fringes, a globally dispersed but tight-knit coalition of economists, grass-roots organizers, business leaders and politicians, along with some investors, have begun to sketch out an answer. The vision: a new relationship between the state, local communities and nature aligned behind a more holistic notion of progress than gross domestic product (GDP), the established yardstick for economies as different as those of the United States and Mozambique. "No country on Earth is doing what is required to make sure we get towards an economic system capable of confronting the twin challenges of ecological collapse and climate change," said Laurie Laybourn-Langton, an associate fellow at London's Institute for Public Policy Research and lead author of a new report on environmental breakdown titled This Is A Crisis. "There are, though, a number of ideas and small-scale projects being done that arguably if scaled up could deal with the problem," he said. One of those gaining traction was measuring progress in other terms than GDP, which, in essence, measures the market value of a country's goods and services. More broadly, Laybourn-Langton, 30, and other champions of 'new economics' argue that it is time to acknowledge that the state must play the central role in marshaling a response to looming systemic environmental shocks. But rather than harking back to the nationalization and executive wage caps of 1970s left-wing politics, they think governments should support communities to create new, participatory forms of economic activity that can tackle social inequality while also restoring planetary health. Story continues Candidates include: locally-run clean energy projects, worker-owned cooperatives, many kinds of progressive businesses, and regenerative agriculture or rewilding practices that could grow exponentially in a favorable policy environment. New economic indicators could also be developed through democratic consultations to measure advances in fairness, health or sustainability, building on examples such as the Genuine Progress Indicator, an early attempt to devise a more rounded alternative to GDP. CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO While many businesses and local groups are pursuing variants of these initiatives, the philosophy is most visible in the Green New Deal. Proposed by U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who is backed by the youth-led Sunrise Movement, it aims to marry social justice with the renewable energy and climate agenda. Orthodox economists from across the U.S. political spectrum have countered that the existing system simply needs a tweak in the form of a carbon tax and rebate system to cut emissions, while Republicans and some investors have subjected the Green New Deal to a barrage of criticism. "It is a 70-, 80-, 90-trillion dollar ... socialist takeover of energy," Jonathan Hoenig of the Capitalist Pig hedge fund told Fox Business in March. "It really is socialism writ large." Nevertheless, two monumental, multi-year scientific studies have found that the corporate-led assault on the web of life is accelerating so fast that it is too late for mere tinkering. In October, the U.N.-sponsored Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded that only a profound economic transformation would allow the world to curb carbon emissions quickly enough to limit global warming. On Monday, a parallel 130-nation scientific study said industrial society has pushed a million species to the brink of extinction. Plants and animals are vanishing tens to hundreds of times faster than during the past 10 million years, the 145 expert authors found. Eduardo Brondizio, an anthropologist who co-chaired the report said it was time to abandon a growth-at-all-costs mindset: "'Business as usual' has to end." "PANIC IN THEIR EYES" Among the questions dividing the 'new economists' is whether the risk of catastrophic climate change is now so acute that economic growth should be suspended altogether in order to cut greenhouse gas emissions fast. Some still see room for sustainable 'green growth', but others want governments to oversee sharp reductions in consumption now, to avoid what they fear would be a descent into a 21st-century Dark Age. While nobody disputes the challenge of rewiring the world economy, an upsurge in climate activism, including a global school strike movement and an international civil disobedience campaign by Extinction Rebellion, is sparking new conversations. The confluence of panic in the eyes of young people with hard science is opening up the debate in the mainstream like it hasnt before," said Katherine Trebeck, an Australian political scientist who co-founded the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, a network of academics, businesses and social movements. Trebeck's new co-authored book, The Economics of Arrival, cites dozens of innovations in places from Scotland to Costa Rica and Denmark, Portugal and Alaska. While the investment opportunities in such projects largely remain trivial, some major funds do see the need for change. "We face a form of capitalism that has hardened its focus to short-term profit maximization with little or no apparent interest in social good," Jeremy Grantham, co-founder of global investment manager GMO, wrote last August. "Were racing to protect not just our portfolios, not just our grandchildren, but our species. So get to it." (Reporting by Matthew Green; Editing by Kevin Liffey) By Matthew Green LONDON (Reuters) - The science is in: the endless pursuit of economic growth is devouring the foundations of life on Earth, and no country rich or poor can expect to escape dire consequences if things go on as they are. So how might the world change course? Though still confined to the fringes, a globally dispersed but tight-knit coalition of economists, grass-roots organisers, business leaders and politicians, along with some investors, have begun to sketch out an answer. The vision: a new relationship between the state, local communities and nature aligned behind a more holistic notion of progress than gross domestic product (GDP), the established yardstick for economies as different as those of the United States and Mozambique. "No country on Earth is doing what is required to make sure we get towards an economic system capable of confronting the twin challenges of ecological collapse and climate change," said Laurie Laybourn-Langton, an associate fellow at London's Institute for Public Policy Research and lead author of a new report on environmental breakdown titled This Is A Crisis. "There are, though, a number of ideas and small-scale projects being done that arguably if scaled up could deal with the problem," he said. One of those gaining traction was measuring progress in other terms than GDP, which, in essence, measures the market value of a country's goods and services. More broadly, Laybourn-Langton, 30, and other champions of 'new economics' argue that it is time to acknowledge that the state must play the central role in marshalling a response to looming systemic environmental shocks. But rather than harking back to the nationalisation and executive wage caps of 1970s left-wing politics, they think governments should support communities to create new, participatory forms of economic activity that can tackle social inequality while also restoring planetary health. Story continues Candidates include: locally-run clean energy projects, worker-owned cooperatives, many kinds of progressive businesses, and regenerative agriculture or rewilding practices that could grow exponentially in a favourable policy environment. New economic indicators could also be developed through democratic consultations to measure advances in fairness, health or sustainability, building on examples such as the Genuine Progress Indicator, an early attempt to devise a more rounded alternative to GDP. CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO While many businesses and local groups are pursuing variants of these initiatives, the philosophy is most visible in the Green New Deal. Proposed by U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who is backed by the youth-led Sunrise Movement, it aims to marry social justice with the renewable energy and climate agenda. Orthodox economists from across the U.S. political spectrum have countered that the existing system simply needs a tweak in the form of a carbon tax and rebate system to cut emissions, while Republicans and some investors have subjected the Green New Deal to a barrage of criticism. "It is a 70-, 80-, 90-trillion dollar ... socialist takeover of energy," Jonathan Hoenig of the Capitalist Pig hedge fund told Fox Business in March. "It really is socialism writ large." Nevertheless, two monumental, multi-year scientific studies have found that the corporate-led assault on the web of life is accelerating so fast that it is too late for mere tinkering. In October, the U.N.-sponsored Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded that only a profound economic transformation would allow the world to curb carbon emissions quickly enough to limit global warming. On Monday, a parallel 130-nation scientific study said industrial society has pushed a million species to the brink of extinction. Plants and animals are vanishing tens to hundreds of times faster than during the past 10 million years, the 145 expert authors found. Eduardo Brondizio, an anthropologist who co-chaired the report said it was time to abandon a growth-at-all-costs mindset: "'Business as usual' has to end." "PANIC IN THEIR EYES" Among the questions dividing the 'new economists' is whether the risk of catastrophic climate change is now so acute that economic growth should be suspended altogether in order to cut greenhouse gas emissions fast. Some still see room for sustainable 'green growth', but others want governments to oversee sharp reductions in consumption now, to avoid what they fear would be a descent into a 21st-century Dark Age. While nobody disputes the challenge of rewiring the world economy, an upsurge in climate activism, including a global school strike movement and an international civil disobedience campaign by Extinction Rebellion, is sparking new conversations. The confluence of panic in the eyes of young people with hard science is opening up the debate in the mainstream like it hasnt before," said Katherine Trebeck, an Australian political scientist who co-founded the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, a network of academics, businesses and social movements. Trebeck's new co-authored book, The Economics of Arrival, cites dozens of innovations in places from Scotland to Costa Rica and Denmark, Portugal and Alaska. While the investment opportunities in such projects largely remain trivial, some major funds do see the need for change. "We face a form of capitalism that has hardened its focus to short-term profit maximisation with little or no apparent interest in social good," Jeremy Grantham, co-founder of global investment manager GMO, wrote last August. "Were racing to protect not just our portfolios, not just our grandchildren, but our species. So get to it." (Reporting by Matthew Green; Editing by Kevin Liffey) Eleven people were injured as a plane slid off a runway while landing at Yangon airport in Myanmar Wednesday, police said, as a freak storm hit the city. Images on Facebook showed a crumpled Biman Bangladesh Airlines plane lying on the grass at the side of the runway. An AFP photographer saw an injured woman being carried to an ambulance on a stretcher. "One pilot, an air hostess and nine passengers were slightly injured," a police officer at the airport told AFP, asking not to be named, adding that the plane slid from the runway as it landed at 6.50pm (1220 GMT). "It happened near Terminal 3 where it fell onto the cargo runway as it landed," he added, saying that the nose and both wings were damaged. Yangon International Airport did not confirm the crash but announced a closure of "runway operations" due to heavy rains. Other incoming flights were diverted to the capital Naypyidaw before Yangon airport re-opened at 9.15pm (0245 GMT). Thirty-one people were on board the stricken aircraft from Bangladesh, Myanmar, Canada, China, India, France and Switzerland. Civilian airline accidents are relatively rare in Myanmar although there have been a series of crashes of military aircraft. Three fighter pilots were killed last year in three separate incidents. Bad weather caused a military plane to crash into the Andaman sea in 2017 with 122 people on board, one of the deadliest aviation accidents in the country's history. Warning: This post contains spoilers for Game of Thrones season 8. With just two episodes to go before Game of Thrones eighth and final season comes to a close, it seems like the show is gearing up to turn Daenerys Targaryen into the Mad Queen she has always feared becoming. And a new batch of photos that HBO released on Wednesday appears to contain hints to that effect. Following the deaths of both Rhaegal and Missandei in episode four, The Last of the Starks, Daenerys looked ready to unleash her one remaining dragon and army on Kings Landing at any moment. But with Jon Snow and the remainder of her forces still on their way south, it appears that Dany will retreat to Dragonstone to wait for reinforcements in episode five. But that doesnt mean shes going to be any less angry when the time for vengeance does come. One new shot shows the Mother of Dragons peering mournfully out of a window in the Chamber of the Painted Table and looking more disheveled than weve seen her in many seasons, perhaps signaling that her state of mind is deteriorating. Other photos show Jon and Davos arriving at Kings Landing while Harry Strickland, the leader of the Golden Company, makes another appearance. See the new episode five photos below. Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen. | Courtesy of HBO Jacob Anderson as Grey Worm. | Helen Sloan/HBO Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister. | Helen Sloan/HBO Liam Cunningham as Davos Seaworth and Kit Harington as Jon Snow. | Helen Sloan/HBO Lena Headey as Cersei Lannister. | Helen Sloan/HBO Liam Cunningham as Davos Seaworth, Kit Harington as Jon Snow, and Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister. | Courtesy of HBO Marc Rissmann as Harry Strickland. | Courtesy of HBO Pilou Asbk as Euron Greyjoy. | Courtesy of HBO Bioterrorism expert Emergent BioSolutions (NYSE: EBS) got off to a slow start in 2019, but management isn't worried about the company hitting its revenue and earnings goals for the year. "Just wait until the second half of the year" was the theme of the first-quarter earnings conference call. Emergent BioSolutions results: The raw numbers Metric Q1 2019 Q1 2018 Year-Over-Year Change Revenue $190.6 million $117.8 million 62% Income from operations ($27.2 million) ($9.5 million) N/A Earnings per share ($0.51) ($0.10) N/A Data source: Emergent BioSolutions. What happened with Emergent BioSolutions this quarter? A substantial amount of the increased revenue, $65.5 million, came from Narcan, the opioid overdose treatment that Emergent acquired in the last year. A new California law that calls for the co-prescription of Narcan -- or one of the other naloxone-containing drugs -- with opioids helped boost sales in the first quarter, although management sees the effect tapering off in the coming quarter. Sales of smallpox vaccine ACAM2000 more than doubled, as the company completed the remaining deliveries to the Strategic National Stockpile under the prior contract with the U.S. government. Emergent is still in negotiation with the government for a new contract. Sales of anthrax vaccine BioThrax decreased 42% as the U.S. government cut back on deliveries of the product in anticipation of the company's next-generation anthrax vaccine, AV7909, which Emergent was calling NuThrax until the Food and Drug Administration rejected the proposed brand name. Shipments of AV7909 to the stockpile are expected to begin later this year. Revenue from contract manufacturing decreased 39% year over year, but the drop was primarily due to one-time milestone payments in the year-ago quarter. The larger loss came from the mix of products sold, as well as fixed costs -- the company is manufacturing AV7909, for example, but won't recognize revenue on that spending until later this year. The quarter also had noncash amortization and inventory step-up charges from the PaxVax and Adapt acquisitions. On the pipeline front, Emergent announced results from a phase 2 study of its chikungunya virus VLP (virus-like particle) vaccine, showing that a single dose produced an immune response in up to 98% of participants by day 7. A paper with a definition of anthrax, along with a needle and vial Image source: Getty Images. Story continues What management had to say Emergent picked up two new international customers for BioThrax, which Robert Kramer, the company's president and CEO, sees as a good sign: "I think what we see is a general continuing maturity and interest outside of the U.S. for any number of our products in the portfolio, including BioThrax, as we've talked about." He added: "We're pleased with the progress, but this is going to be a slow maturity over the next several years." Kramer also talked about the negotiations with the U.S. government over a new contract for ACAM2000: This is a critically needed medical countermeasure -- again, the U.S. government's committed strategy is to have sufficient supply for the protection of all civilians in the United States. So it's a huge stockpile. It's a huge rotation requirement and to be honest, when we get into these negotiations on follow-on contracts, we want to make sure that the resulting outcome is a robust, durable, fair contract for both the government and for the company, and if it takes a little more time for us to come out with that outcome, we're going to take the amount of time that it requires. Looking forward Management reaffirmed its 2019 revenue guidance of $1.06 billion to $1.14 billion, and said second-quarter revenue should be in the range of $200 million to $220 million. Factoring in the first quarter, 60% or more of the annual revenue will come from the second half of the year. That increased revenue should boost margins and drive Emergent to profitability. For the year, management is still looking for net income of $80 million to $110 million on a GAAP basis, or $150 million to $180 million on an adjusted basis. On the pipeline front, data from a phase 2 clinical trial of FLU-IGIV, for treating severe illness caused by the flu, is expected at the end of this year. And look for the company to start the final phase 3 study of the chikungunya VLP vaccine next year. More From The Motley Fool Brian Orelli has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Emergent BioSolutions. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. On Tuesday, Ethereum (ETH) experienced a 10% gain over 24 hours against the USD. ETH led the broader cryptocurrency market higher amid reports that the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is willing to approve an Ether futures product, provided it meets certain regulatory guidelines. The so-called world computer cryptocurrency Ethereum has lagged behind Bitcoin (BTC) and the broader market this year amid growing competition for faster and more scalable blockchains. But with the recent news, will price push higher to make yearly highs? Ethereum futures on the horizon The decision to approve an ETH-based futures contract wouldnt be out of the ordinary, as the CFTC has already approved derivatives contracts tied to Bitcoin its much larger peer. In December 2017, the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) both launched their own version of a Bitcoin futures contract. In more recent news, in March 2019, CBOE announced it does not intend to list any additional Bitcoin futures beyond June, although it didnt close the door completely on the digital asset class. SCOOP cboe/cfe is not adding new $xbt contracts for trade while it (re)assesses how it plans to continue to offer digital asset derivatives for trading . This is effective this effective March 2019. Last contract listed is xbtm19. I am Nomad (@IamNomad) March 14, 2019 By granting an Ethereum-based futures contract, the CFTC hopes to open the door to greater institutional adoption of the current second-largest cryptocurrency. Interest in the CME Bitcoin futures contract has certainly grown over time, but the big mass adoption phase hasnt happened yet. One could argue that if the CFTC does pave the way for Ethereum futures, the next step could be the approval of a digital currency exchange-traded fund, most commonly known as an ETF. To get there, fund issuers must satisfy the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which has refused to grant any crypto ETFs as of yet. So far, no positive signal has been given to any of the proposed ETFs. Last February, there was a new proposal by VanEck and SolidX which later got withdrawn. Story continues The VanEck SolidX Bitcoin ETF proposed rule-change has been submitted by CBOE. Hard work by all teams involved. Public document: https://t.co/X25lOPjiFS pic.twitter.com/C9FP4adDE8 Gabor Gurbacs (@gaborgurbacs) January 31, 2019 Futures markets for Bitcoin were announced on December 1st 2017 and were set to launch on the 18th of the same month. From the 1st to the 17th of December, the value of Bitcoin doubled from $10,000 to $20,000. Then, when the markets finally opened, the price of Bitcoin tanked. Could we see a similar thing happen with Ethereum? News on Casper, PoS, and sharding If Ethereum is to become Web 3.0, it must have a good number of developers working on the infrastructure. In the best case scenario, the altcoin should have a large number of developers working on its core protocol (Ethereum) in addition to a number of developers contributing code to Ethereums repositories. Fortunately, Ethereum gives us the best of both worlds as it is ahead of all cryptocurrencies in both categories. Research of developer activity from January 2018 to February 2019 conducted by Electric Capital shows that Ethereum is king in terms of developer activity, with better results than Bitcoin. It has the largest developer team in the crypto space. An average of 216 developers contribute code every month to Ethereums repositories. The study also emphasised that this count is conservative as developers from ecosystem projects like Truffle, Remix, or other Ethereum-related products like sidechains were not included. On top of infrastructure developments, Ethereum is also making huge changes that will affect both miners and investors. On February 28th 2019, Ethereum finally implemented the Constantinople hard fork which featured several improvements and changes to the core protocol. The most controversial change was the proposed shift from a Proof-of-Work (PoW) to a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) model. Constantinople introduces a proposed mining model change that not only reduces ETH supply in the market, but also makes the Ethereum network stronger. With a PoS implementation, we could see a greater incentive for ETH holders as well. The protocol implementation that will bring Casper (Ethereums PoS consensus mechanism) to life is currently being developed by two research projects: Casper the Friendly Finality Gadget (FFG) Casper the Friendly GHOST: Correct-by-Construction (CBC) The aim is to add a PoS system with the ability to shard, as in the ability to horizontally partition data within a database. More generally, the database is broken into little pieces called shards that when aggregated together form the original database. In Ethereums case, the database is the main blockchain, and the shards are smaller blockchains (sidechains) connected to the main chain. There are many advantages of both PoS and sharding, but the most important are: Increased energy efficiency, as PoS is much less energy intensive than PoW. Increased scalability, because PoS allows for much faster transactions as consensus is quicker and sharding allows for blockchain partitioning, meaning smaller blockchains are created for specific purposes. When both technologies are fully adopted, I can imagine a truly world computer being used by hundreds of dApps with multiple purposes. Lets hope that future arrives soon. The post Ethereum is gaining momentum: Are fundamentals improving? appeared first on Coin Rivet. By Maja Zuvela SARAJEVO, May 8 (Reuters) - The EU needs to integrate the Western Balkans quickly to safeguard its own future as well as protect the buffer region from Russian and Chinese influence, Montenegro's president Milo Djukanovic said on Wednesday. Pro-European Union Djukanovic is his country's longest serving politician. He led it into NATO in 2017 and is steering its EU membership bid in the face of fierce Russian opposition. Moscow, through politics, and Beijing, via loans, aim to "prevent NATO and EU expansion in the Balkans," Djukanovic told Reuters in an interview. That meant the region needed to be "the zone of the European Union's responsibility and its strategic interest." "Unless the EU realizes that, I am afraid its own future might be in jeopardy," he said, speaking a day before verdicts are due in the trial of alleged participants in a 2016 coup plot against him. Out of six Western Balkans' EU aspirants, the tiny Adriatic state and neighboring Serbia are next in line to join, though neither is likely to become an EU state in the foreseeable future. They been told they must root out organized crime, corruption and nepotism and reduce red tape first, and the political elite in both countries is deeply divided between pro-EU and pro-Russia camps. Both governments have this year faced a wave of protests over alleged corruption, cronyism and abuse of office. Meanwhile the EU is cutting funding to the Western Balkan countries along with the World Bank and other western lenders, leaving China to fill the gap. NATIONALISM 'DEFEATED BUT NOT BURIED' "Third parties, such as Russia and China, are making gains due to a lack of a concrete EU activity in the region," he said, citing enlargement fatigue and internal political tensions as factors in the latter's shift towards a more hands-off approach. A Chinese loan for the first phase of a new highway link with Serbia has sent Montenegro's debt soaring and forced its government to raise taxes and partially freeze public sector wages to get its finances in order. Story continues "Why don't the European financial institutions offer the same conditions," said Djukanovic, defending the deal. He said that reforms he was trying to pursue - including structural ones to maintain strong economic growth - had led to protests, but said foreign powers had also played their part. The 2016 election day assassination plot that Djukanovic survived was a designed to bring a pro-Russian party to power. "Divided societies are the remnants of the wars of the 1990s. The politics of nationalism has been defeated but not buried and some of these people are trying to revive it and cannot accept the fact that our place is in the EU," he said. (Reporting by Maja Zuvela; editing by John Stonestreet) Budapest (AFP) - The European Union's ombudsman has voiced "frustration" to AFP that high-profile lapses in standards by the bloc's institutions in recent years provide "ammunition" for eurosceptics to attack the EU. "The EU generally has very high standards but a lot of people out there are willing to attack it externally and internally," ombudsman Emily O'Reilly told AFP in Budapest Tuesday. "So it is a shame for the EU then to give ammunition to the populists," she said in an interview. The EU ombudsman is an independent and impartial body that holds the EUs institutions and agencies to account, and promotes good administration. Last year a rushed and murky procedure saw Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker's chief of staff Martin Selmayr promoted to top civil servant of the EU's 30,000-strong executive. The Commission later rejected the conclusion of the ombudsman's probe that EU rules on transparency in hiring processes had been broken. In another sensitive case, Jose Manuel Barroso, commission president between 2004 and 2014, accepted a job with the Goldman Sachs bank, a firm widely blamed for its role in the 2008 global crash and eurozone debt crisis. In 2016, an EU ethics panel cleared Barroso of breaching bloc rules on lobbying. "There is a frustration that there isn't a recognition of the links between poor behaviour on the one hand and allowing populists to unfairly criticise the EU on the other," O'Reilly told AFP. "The Selmayr and Barroso cases received media coverage all over the world, "and particularly in media and in member states and other countries that are hostile to the EU itself and that is a pity," she said. Almost all of her office's recommendations have been accepted by the EU institutions, said O'Reilly, but "the high profile ones are the ones that can do the most damage...by getting eurosceptic attention". Story continues The Irishwoman took on the job in 2013 when the previous Ombudsman left the post early and then continued for the 2014-2019 mandate. Her office told AFP that she plans to run for another term when the mandate expires after the election. Earlier, O'Reilly delivered a speech at the Central European University where she called for more transparency in Brussels corridors of power. "It is hard for the EU to criticise member states for ethical breaches if it doesn't adopt the highest standards itself," she told the audience. LONDON -- Two years ago, the Finns Party, which like most far-right, populist parties in Europe has largely focused on opposition to immigration, seemed like a spent force in Finnish politics. It was one of three right-wing parties that formed a government in 2015 that proved unpopular, and the party splintered in 2017 with half its members of parliament (MPs) quitting. But ahead of last month's general election in Finland, the party found an additional hobby horse to ride to electoral success: resistance to policies that combat climate change. It worked. When the final results were tabulated on April 14, the nationalist Finns Party captured 17.5% of the vote, only a fraction less than the 17.7% won by the top-placing Social Democrats. The Finns Party doesn't deny climate science. Instead, it says the solutions to fight it are too costly and place an unfair burden on Finns, particularly the rural and working-class voters that comprise its base. "Their attitude got more extreme when they discovered they could win more votes by opposing climate policy," explains Stella Schaller, a global-climate policy expert at Adelphi, a public policy think tank in Berlin that focuses on climate issues. And while there is no empirical evidence beyond the Finnish election that arguing against policies to thwart climate change will be a vote-getter for nationalist parties around the European Union, many of them are likely to give it a go as electioneering ramps up ahead of the May 23 elections for the European Parliament. [MORE: Social Democrats Across Europe Face Collapsing Support] "It is becoming a campaign issue, that's for sure," Schaller says, especially "since immigration may be losing its explosiveness" with voters. Preserving Sovereignty Rallies the Right Nationalist parties have long voiced skepticism toward climate policies, says Bernhard Forchtner, an expert on far-right politics at the University of Leicester, "but no one was paying attention before." As immigration loses some of its power as a hot-button issue, "it gives them another tool to repeat their overall message, that 'the elites control us.'" Story continues [MORE: Austria's Influential Rise to Fuel Far-Right Movements in Europe] A recent Adelphi study of 21 of the largest far-right parties in Europe found that seven of them are ardent climate-deniers, including the UK Independence Party, Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the Netherland's Party for Freedom. While several of the other parties have pro-green platforms, like Hungary's governing Fidesz, most of the rest tend to accept climate science while rejecting climate policies, the same tactic of the Finns Party. Two out of three nationalist members regularly voted against climate legislation in the EU parliament, according to Adelphi. Many of the parties tend to blur the line on climate skepticism. For instance, National Rally (formerly the National Front) once labeled the United Nation's climate panel a "communist project," but in recent years it's not entirely denied the science behind global warming and has promoted the development of "domestic renewables." Yet, it's also one of the nationalist parties whose members have over the last five years regularly voted against climate bills. [MORE: Climate Change a Top Campaign Issue in Australia] "It's not homogenous," Forchtner says of climate denialism among far-right movements. "There's a tendency among the hard-right parties to be skeptics, while others are not as outspoken, are not saying so explicitly." But the overarching view that tends to link the parties is that most climate solutions "require international cooperation, and that means giving up some sovereignty, and that's a key argument for nationalists. They have real ideological reasons to oppose climate fixes." "Climate is a topic that can be easily exploited," Schaller says, because it allows right-wing parties to rail against elites, science, inequitable costs, big government and international cooperation. While the populist Yellow Vest demonstrators who have engulfed France in a series of sometimes violent protests since last November have embraced a melange of right- and left-wing demands, they began the movement to protest higher fuel taxes earmarked to pay for green policies. "It proves that climate can be a polarizing, wedge issue," she says. Europeans Want Climate Action, Yet Worry About Costs To be sure, polls indicate that most EU voters see global warming as a danger and want action. An April Ipsos MORI poll of 11 large European countries found that 77% of potential voters say that fighting climate change will be an important criterion for them when they go to the polls this month. And a PPI survey of 1,503 voters in six EU countries found that 43% listed climate as the most important issue, roughly the same percentage that listed inequality and economic issues as their biggest concerns. Immigration was much further down the list at 32%. [MORE: Climate Change a Top Security Threat, Global Survey Finds] But the poll also found that voters disapprove of green solutions that hit the pocketbooks of working people -- higher diesel taxes, for instance. Not surprisingly, the main political groups within the European Parliament have all released manifestos containing ambitious climate goals, ranging from tougher emissions targets to making the EU carbon-neutral by either 2030 or 2050 to bolstering the EU's carbon-trading system. Forecasts of Growing Leverage for Nationalist Parties Nevertheless, Adelphi cites forecasts that indicate that nationalist parties are likely to capture up to 25% of the 751 EU Parliament seats up for grabs -- up from 15% now -- for a total of around 188. That won't give them enough votes to defeat climate bills, especially since they don't always vote as a bloc on the issue. But their growing numbers will give them more leverage to potentially water down legislation before it goes to a formal vote. "Their sphere of influence grows as their voter shares increase," Schaller says. That's because they'll be allocated more funding and longer speaking times, and they'll be able to chair committees and file motions. "They can introduce more skeptical arguments and so toss sand into the gears." There's also a greater likelihood that mainstream parties of both the center-right and center-left may feel pressured to cooperate more with far-right parties they would have shunned in the past. "The risk," Schaller says, "is they can set the tone for the debates." Thomas K. Grose is a U.K.-based journalist who has spent much of his career living and working in Britain and Washington, D.C. Grose has reported from across Western Europe and Latin America, regularly contributing to several news organizations, including U.S. News & World Report, Time, USA Today and ASEE Prism magazine. Follow him on Twitter. Last month, the EU Parliament approved new rules to protect workers in the gig economy. It says companies engaging on-demand, voucher-based and platform workers must allow them to refuse work and be paid for canceled work; they must honor workers right to take jobs with other companies, pay workers to train, and give workers limited probationary periods. In short: gig workers deserve some of the protections regular employees enjoy. An EU Parliament press release went as far as to name-check specific companies, including one IPO-bound ride-hailing behemoth in particular: Uber. Members of the European Parliament approved minimum rights for workers with on-demand, voucher-based or platform jobs, like Uber or Deliveroo, the statement says. With such an explicit call-out, its clear the rules were written with Uber in mind. Theres just one problem: Uber says that when it comes to its drivers, operating in 90 EU cities, the new rules do not apply. The difference of opinion is the latest round in a long-running question at Uber, one that still dogs the company as it zooms toward its IPO on Thursday: Who actually works for Uber, and what does the company owe them? Self-employed or just employed? For its entire 10-year history, Uber has insisted that its drivers are, in fact, self-employed. That distinction is key to Uber and other companies that rely on a flexible workforce. The individuals who perform the services work whenever they like, for how long theyd like, and get paid for the work they complete. Classifying workers as independent contractors has a tremendous upside for business since it means workers are responsible for their own taxes, health insurance and pension contributions, and the companies they do work for arent responsible for payroll taxes, overtime or other costs associated with regular employees. The system keeps labor costs low, andthe companies argueconsumer prices are low as a result. Story continues Companies like [Uber] build their entire business model on keeping their workers classifiedand many would argue misclassifiedas self-employed, says Mark Graham of the University of Oxford and the Fairwork Foundation. But for nearly as long as Uber has argued its drivers are independent contractors, drivers and critics have offered a counter argument: that drivers are employees deserving of minimum wage, paid leave, and unemployment benefits. Their rationale is that Uber dictates where drivers go and how much they charge, and that drivers provide the companys core service. Some Uber drivers are going on strike across the U.S. and Europe on Wednesday, the eve of Ubers IPO, to demand a living wage, greater transparency over fares, more job security, and, in some instances, benefits. These opposing viewpoints have triggered an avalanche of lawsuits. Take, for instance, the 13,600 drivers in Massachusetts and California who went to court in a class-action push to be considered employees. Uber settled the six-year-old case in March for $20 million but will continue to classify the drivers as independent contractors. In 2015, a driver in London said he faced repercussions from the company if he cancelled a pickup, and, in some months, made less than 5 per hour, below the U.K.s 7.20 threshold. The London employment tribunal ruled in 2016 that Uber was in fact an employer that must give drivers minimum wages and paid leave, and denied the companys appeal in December. Uber is appealing that ruling to a higher court. Uber is likewise appealing a 2017 ruling from a judge in Sao Paulo, one of Ubers most important markets, that a driver is an employee deserving of benefits. Driven to change? Along the way, Uber has made a few concessions. In settling the California and Massachusetts case, it agree to make changes to how it removes drivers from its platform. Last year, Uber extended health insurance and accident coverage to more than 150,000 drivers and couriers in 21 European countries. And at a Fortune conference in October, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said he was considering rolling out similar benefits to its independent contractors worldwide. (Uber told Fortune it has since expanded accident insurance to drivers in 40 U.S. states as well as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt and South Africa but not health insurance.) If youre going to call your drivers partners, then treat them like partners. So that you dont get this world where independent contractors are the have-nots and full time employees are the haves,' Khosrowshahi said at the Fortune event. Where we would like to take independent contractors is into a state where its not a have-not stateyou can create a framework of benefits, etc., around the world as well. We have a long way to go, but at least in Europe weve gotten one step closer. Nevertheless, the new EU decision rules and Ubers pushback against them indicate two things as Uber prepares to go public: there remain legal and regulatory challenges to the employment arrangement at the heart of Ubers business, and Uber remains firmly dug in on its stance. In fact, a spokesman for Uber told Fortune he would not even comment on the new EU directive because the rules say genuine self-employed workers are excluded and Uber drivers are self-employed. Owning the risks Ubers own IPO prospectus provides a rather blunt explanation of the obstinance: Our business would be adversely affected if Drivers were classified as employees instead of independent contractors, it says. If changes to foreign, state, and local laws required the company to reclassify its 3.9 million drivers as employees, it would fundamentally change its business model, according to the document. A question now is how investors will view the risks associated with the ongoing debate thats so core to Ubers business. We will see more lawsuits regarding employees, and it will be fought on a state-by-state basis [in the U.S.], says John Coffee, a securities law professor at Columbia University. The odds are against Uber continuing to characterize their drivers as independent contractors. And if Uber has to start paying the benefits it has avoided for so long, that will certainly reduce profitability, he says. In Europe, countries have been moving towards greater protections for gig workers, at least as compared to the U.S., University of Alabama law professor Deepa Das Acevedo says. So initiatives like the EU rules should not come out of the blue. New York University business professor Arun Sundararajan, meanwhile, argues that Uber actually has a competitive advantage on this front, at least compared to its rivals. Its economy of scale puts it in a better position to absorb the increased cost of drivers employee benefits should it be forced to do so. While the worker classification issue is likely to continue to nag Uber, the soon-to-be-public company might just be trying to run out the clock at this point. If Ubers investment of billions into autonomous car technology pays off, it eventually wont need any human drivers at all. By Jake Spring BRASILIA, May 8 (Reuters) - Eight former Brazilian environment ministers blasted new right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro and his administration in a letter on Wednesday, saying it is dismantling the country's environmental protections. The former officials criticized the government's decision to strip the environment ministry's authority over forestry and water agency services, while also saying a lack of clear directives to combat climate change is threatening Brazil's ability to meet its commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions. "All this reinforces in the end a sense of impunity, which is the byword for more deforestation and more violence," they wrote, arguing that this perceived dismantling was unconstitutional. Brazil's current Environment Minister Ricardo Salles responded point by point to the letter in a statement and blamed external forces for what he saw as a campaign against the country. "What is damaging Brazil's image is the permanent and well-orchestrated defamation campaign by NGOs and supposed experts, within and outside of Brazil," Salles' letter said. Bolsonaro on the campaign trail railed against what he has called "an industry" of environmental fines targeting farmers and at one point considered pulling out of the Paris Agreement on climate change. He still maintains climate change may not be manmade, although Brazil remains a party to the agreement. His remarks have spurred fears among environmentalists that deforestation will spike in Brazil's portion of the Amazon rain forest, which absorbs vast amounts of greenhouse gases. Brazil's Amazon deforestation, however, has fallen 34 percent year-on-year in the first four months of the year, according to data from the country's space agency INPE. The former environment ministers who drafted the letter include Rubens Ricupero, who served in the early 1990s, and Edson Duarte, who stepped down at the end of the previous government. Story continues In his response, which is longer than the original letter, Salles said he agreed with the former ministers' call for robust and efficient environmental regulations. "The current government did not reject, nor deconstruct, any previously assumed commitment that is tangible, advantageous and concrete for Brazilian society," he wrote. Salles criticized a lack of action in a variety of areas by previous governments. He defended moving the authority over forest services and the water agency ANA to other ministries. saying it would help kickstart action in those areas. "We reaffirm our commitment to combat illegal deforestation, with effective actions and not merely rhetoric," he wrote. (Reporting by Jake Spring; editing by Jonathan Oatis) By Jake Spring BRASILIA (Reuters) - Eight former Brazilian environment ministers blasted new right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro and his administration in a letter on Wednesday, saying it is dismantling the country's environmental protections. The former officials criticized the government's decision to strip the environment ministry's authority over forestry and water agency services, while also saying a lack of clear directives to combat climate change is threatening Brazil's ability to meet its commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions. "All this reinforces in the end a sense of impunity, which is the byword for more deforestation and more violence," they wrote, arguing that this perceived dismantling was unconstitutional. Brazil's current Environment Minister Ricardo Salles responded point by point to the letter in a statement and blamed external forces for what he saw as a campaign against the country. "What is damaging Brazil's image is the permanent and well-orchestrated defamation campaign by NGOs and supposed experts, within and outside of Brazil," Salles' letter said. Bolsonaro on the campaign trail railed against what he has called "an industry" of environmental fines targeting farmers and at one point considered pulling out of the Paris Agreement on climate change. He still maintains climate change may not be manmade, although Brazil remains a party to the agreement. His remarks have spurred fears among environmentalists that deforestation will spike in Brazil's portion of the Amazon rain forest, which absorbs vast amounts of greenhouse gases. Brazil's Amazon deforestation, however, has fallen 34 percent year-on-year in the first four months of the year, according to data from the country's space agency INPE. The former environment ministers who drafted the letter include Rubens Ricupero, who served in the early 1990s, and Edson Duarte, who stepped down at the end of the previous government. In his response, which is longer than the original letter, Salles said he agreed with the former ministers' call for robust and efficient environmental regulations. "The current government did not reject, nor deconstruct, any previously assumed commitment that is tangible, advantageous and concrete for Brazilian society," he wrote. Salles criticized a lack of action in a variety of areas by previous governments. He defended moving the authority over forest services and the water agency ANA to other ministries. saying it would help kickstart action in those areas. "We reaffirm our commitment to combat illegal deforestation, with effective actions and not merely rhetoric," he wrote. (Reporting by Jake Spring; editing by Jonathan Oatis) By David Lawder, Jeff Mason and Michael Martina WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) - The diplomatic cable from Beijing arrived in Washington late on Friday night, with systematic edits to a nearly 150-page draft trade agreement that would blow up months of negotiations between the world's two largest economies, according to three U.S. government sources and three private sector sources briefed on the talks. The document was riddled with reversals by China that undermined core U.S. demands, the sources told Reuters. In each of the seven chapters of the draft trade deal, China had deleted its commitments to change laws to resolve core complaints that caused the United States to launch a trade war: Theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation. U.S. President Donald Trump responded in a tweet on Sunday vowing to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent on Friday timed to land in the middle of a scheduled visit by China's Vice Premier Liu He to Washington to continue trade talks. The United States said on Wednesday the higher tariffs would go into effect on Friday, according to a notice posted on the Federal Register. Trump said on Wednesday that China is mistaken if it hopes to negotiate trade later with a Democratic presidential administration. "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats," Trump tweeted. Trump also said he would be happy to keep tariffs on Chinese imports in place. The stripping of binding legal language from the draft struck directly at the highest priority of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer - who views changes to Chinese laws as essential to verifying compliance after years of what U.S. officials have called empty reform promises. Story continues Lighthizer has pushed hard for an enforcement regime more like those used for punitive economic sanctions such as those imposed on North Korea or Iran than a typical trade deal. "This undermines the core architecture of the deal," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the talks. 'PROCESS OF NEGOTIATION' Spokespeople for the White House, the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a briefing on Wednesday that working out disagreements over trade was a "process of negotiation" and that China was not "avoiding problems". Geng referred specific questions on the trade talks to the Commerce Ministry, which did not respond immediately to faxed questions from Reuters. Lighthizer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin were taken aback at the extent of the changes in the draft. The two cabinet officials on Monday told reporters that Chinese backtracking had prompted Trump's tariff order but did not provide details on the depth and breadth of the revisions. Liu last week told Lighthizer and Mnuchin that they needed to trust China to fulfill its pledges through administrative and regulatory changes, two of the sources said. Both Mnuchin and Lighthizer considered that unacceptable, given China's history of failing to fulfill reform pledges. One private-sector source briefed on the talks said the last round of negotiations had gone very poorly because "China got greedy." "China reneged on a dozen things, if not more ... The talks were so bad that the real surprise is that it took Trump until Sunday to blow up," the source said. "After 20 years of having their way with the U.S., China still appears to be miscalculating with this administration." FURTHER TALKS THIS WEEK The rapid deterioration of negotiations rattled global stock markets, bonds and commodities this week. Until Sunday, markets had priced in the expectation that officials from the two countries were close to striking a deal. Investors and analysts questioned whether Trump's tweet was a negotiating ploy to wring more concessions from China. The sources told Reuters the extent of the setbacks in the revised text were serious and that Trump's response was not merely a negotiating strategy. On Wednesday morning, U.S. stock market indexes were mostly weaker again, pointing to a third straight day of losses on Wall Street. The S&P 500 has fallen more than 2 percent so far this week. Yields on benchmark U.S. Treasury securities fell to the lowest in more than a month. Chinese negotiators said they couldn't touch the laws, said one of the government sources, calling the changes "major." Changing any law in China requires a unique set of processes that can't be navigated quickly, said a Chinese official familiar with the talks. The official disputed the assertion that China was backtracking on its promises, adding that U.S. demands were becoming more "harsh" and the path to a deal more "narrow" as the negotiations drag on. Liu is set to arrive in Washington on Thursday for two days of talks that just last week were widely seen as pivotal a possible last round before a historic trade deal. Now, U.S. officials have little hope that Liu will come bearing any offer that can get talks back on track, said two of the sources. To avert escalation, some of the sources said, Liu would have to scrap China's proposed text changes and agree to make new laws. China would also have to move further toward the U.S. position on other sticking points, such as demands for curbs on Chinese industrial subsidies and a streamlined approval process for genetically engineered U.S. crops. The U.S. administration said the latest tariff escalation would take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday (0401 GMT), hiking levees on Chinese products such as internet modems and routers, printed circuit boards, vacuum cleaners and furniture. The Chinese reversal may give China hawks in the Trump administration, including Lighthizer, an opening to take a harder stance. Mnuchin, who has been more open to a deal with improved market access, and at times clashed with Lighthizer, appeared in sync with Lighthizer in describing the changes to reporters on Monday, while still leaving open the possibility new tariffs could be averted with a deal. Trump's tweets left no room for backing down, and Lighthizer made it clear that, despite continuing talks, "come Friday, there will be tariffs in place." (Additional reporting by Chris Prentice and Dan Burns in NEW YORK, and Jing Xu and Ben Blanchard in BEIJING; Editing by Simon Webb, Brian Thevenot and Paul Simao) By Rod Nickel and Nia Williams WINNIPEG, Manitoba/CALGARY, Alberta (Reuters) - Canada's Enbridge is asking oil shippers to sign at least eight-year contracts to move crude on its Mainline pipeline network, as it proposes to shift away from a monthly allocation system, people with knowledge of the matter told Reuters. The minimum term Enbridge Inc is seeking, previously unreported, is raising fears among small Canadian producers that they will lose out to bigger players, at a time when pipeline congestion has damaged the energy sector's outlook. Three sources with knowledge of the confidential talks confirmed the minimum term. Enbridge has previously disclosed that the maximum term is 20 years under a plan that still requires approval from Canada's National Energy Board. The company declined, in an email, to confirm the minimum term it is seeking, saying it is commercially sensitive information. Locking shippers into long-term contracts offers Enbridge a chance to capitalize on delays to competitors' plans to build pipelines, and secure future cash flow at a time when anxiety about market access is dominating headlines. The Alberta government took the rare step in January of ordering oil production cuts to boost prices. Canada is the world's fourth-largest crude producer but a shortage of pipeline capacity has contributed to an exodus of $20 billion in foreign capital from Alberta's oil sands since 2017. Under the proposed Mainline changes, producers fear being out-bid by oil sands majors such as Canadian Natural Resources Ltd and Suncor Energy Inc. "If there is lack of pipe capacity, obviously the pipelines are in control and can dictate terms," said Chief Executive Rob Morgan of Cona Resources Ltd, which produces up to 15,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in Saskatchewan. The length of commitments is the biggest concern for small producers, Morgan said. Enbridge spokesman Jesse Semko said Enbridge hopes to meet the needs of all industry participants, but added that small producers account for an "extremely small" percentage of Mainline volume. Story continues Semko said Enbridge has been engaging with the industry about the Mainline for more than a year, offering flexibility on both terms and volume. He said Enbridge anticipates holding a 60-day bidding period, known as an open season, starting in July. WIDENING THE DIVIDE Enbridge's Mainline, a web of pipelines connecting western Canada's production basins with U.S. Midwest and eastern Canadian refineries, handles 2.85 million barrels of oil per day. It will add another 380,000 bpd once the Line 3 replacement project is complete. The Mainline, whose first leg was built in 1950, is a common carrier pipeline, similar to a railway, on which all shippers theoretically have access to moving goods. Shippers currently nominate how many barrels they wish to move monthly. Since demand always exceeds capacity, Enbridge rations space. Some say large shippers game the system by over-estimating their needs, nominating so-called "air barrels", so they are not left short when volumes are apportioned. Canadian Natural Resources called the system "dysfunctional" in March, adding it contributed to congestion that ultimately prompted Alberta's curtailments. Enbridge president of liquids pipelines Guy Jarvis said in December the company would improve the Mainline by switching in 2021 to a toll system, known as "take-or-pay", common to other pipelines. It would sell up to 90 percent of Mainline space to shippers in exchange for long-term, set volume commitments. Shippers must then pay for the space whether they use it or not. Such commitments are a problem for small producers because lenders view them as liabilities, said Tristan Goodman, president of the Explorers and Producers Association of Canada. "It's like taking out a lease on your building - you have to pay it, no matter what," he said. Small to midsize players are discussing how they might pool oil to meet Enbridge's volume minimum, Cona's Morgan said. Producers of 50,000 boepd or less account for 19 percent of western Canadian crude production, according to a Canadian Energy Research Institute calculation using CanOils data. "(The Mainline) is magnitudes larger than some of the other pipelines and it's the backbone of Canadian shipments," said Saskatchewan Energy Minister Bronwyn Eyre. "That for Saskatchewan producers, smaller producers, is a real concern. Its the unknown of what (take-or-pay) might mean." The Mainline's switch "could definitely widen the divide," between big and small, said Ryan Bushell, president of Newhaven Asset Management, which holds Enbridge shares. Smaller producers could find it hard to meet Enbridge's terms, although they would benefit indirectly if the change results in less price volatility, he said. LEG UP ON COMPETITION For Enbridge, the change could be a savvy move to tie up volumes while uncertainties persist about the future of TC Energy's Keystone XL and the Canadian government-owned Trans Mountain expansion project. "(Enbridge) wants to guarantee their cash flow and wants to strike now while everyone is freaking out about pipeline space," said one industry source. Take-or-pay models are more commonly used on new pipelines and the fact Enbridge is applying it to the decades-old Mainline shows how valued pipelines have become in Canada, Bushell said. While big shippers are likely to welcome a more efficient system with contracted volumes, they must decide if they are willing to commit to the Mainline when there is still a chance Keystone XL and the Trans Mountain expansion will get built, said Wood Mackenzie analyst John Coleman. "Shippers have got kind of a tricky situation," Coleman said. "It's going to be a harder-than-normal open season (for Enbridge) because of immense uncertainty around other pipeline projects looking to get built." (Reporting by Rod Nickel in Winnipeg, Manitoba and Nia Williams in Calgary, Alberta; Additional reporting by Devika Krishna Kumar in New York; Editing by Denny Thomas and Lisa Shumaker) Kannur (India) (AFP) - India's once-vibrant communist parties are in danger of falling off the political map in this month's general elections as voters lose their revolutionary fervour. From 61 parliamentary seats and a key role in a coalition government formed in 2004, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and its hard left allies slumped to just 10 seats in the 2014 election. CPM leader Sitaram Yechury acknowledged that the left cannot afford another fall as he lobbied for precious votes in the last communist bastion of southern Kerala state. In the past, tens of thousands of Indians turned out for communist rallies, chanting proletarian slogans and wearing hammer and sickle neck chains with their Marxist-red t-shirts and hats. But today, the movement is fighting an increasingly desperate battle. As the communists defend their six seats in Kerala, Yechury acknowledged the critical stakes while keeping up his onslaught against capitalism and right-wing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "The youth were led away by a lot of illusions," he said of the erosion of support for the communists. "The neo-liberal blitzkrieg agenda will become an Eldorado and reality will hit them," the party secretary general predicted. Yechury said the financial crisis of 2008 has made many people look to the left again. "This is the first chance when we can test whether we are reversing the trend or not," Yechury said. "The 2019 election results are important for communists -- just as they are important for India, since the results will decide whether we remain a secular, democratic republic as defined by our constitution, or not." - Make or break - The original Communist Party of India (CPI) is one of the world's oldest communist parties and became a powerful force after independence in 1947, claiming to fight for the country's army of poor. Even though it was pushed back to second fiddle status when the CPM broke away in 1964, it remains one of a plethora of rival left groups, including four Revolutionary Socialist parties with tendencies ranging from Bolshevik to plain vanilla Marxist. Story continues Between them, the parties claim more than one million members. But political and personal infighting and the rise of the BJP as India became richer has overshadowed talk of a proletarian uprising. The communists lost their other bastion in the eastern state of West Bengal in 2011 after 34 years in power. The small northeastern state of Tripura went over to the BJP last year, leaving just Kerala. The CPM manifesto is like a throwback to the 1960s, saying Modi has reduced India to a "junior partner of US imperialism". But it includes potential vote-winners like tripling the minimum legal wage of 18,000 rupees ($260) a month and free healthcare for all. And the communists still have diehard supporters in the southern state which has some of India's best social indicators for health and education. - Marxist turnoff - Student Ajith K rode his motorbike for three hours from his village in Kasargod district to attend a Yechury rally in Vadakara. "My parents, brother and others in the family are all lifetime communists. We couldn't think of voting for anyone else," Ajith, flanked by two friends wearing red hats with the CPM hammer and sickle logo, told AFP. A.N. Shamseer, a CPM lawmaker in the state assembly, proudly told how the communists in Kerala "have a long history of driving key social reforms". But the BJP, Congress and other social democratic parties are also promising better health care, education and social welfare for the poor. In a new sign of the communists' vulnerability, one of the two constituencies where Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is standing for election is in the Kerala seat of Wayanad against a communist candidate. "Kerala is their bastion, the last stronghold, where the communists need to fight," said Hartosh Singh Bal, political editor of The Caravan magazine. "It is a very very critical election for their future." Bal said "many voters want classic left-of-centre policies, which some parties offer, but not the Marxism, which the party's cadres want. And the results are there for all to see." GENEVA (Reuters) - World Health Organization experts recommended on Tuesday a dramatic expansion of vaccination against Ebola in Congo after a surge in cases showed that the strategy of vaccinating those known to be exposed to the disease was no longer sufficient. Health workers fighting against the second worst Ebola epidemic in history are now implementing a "ring" strategy, vaccinating anyone directly exposed to known cases of Ebola, and a second ring of those exposed to people in the first ring. But after four weeks of sharp increases in cases, the World Health Organization's strategic advisory group (SAGE) of outside experts said the vaccine programme was no longer big enough. A large share of new cases are now occurring in people who were not known contacts of earlier patients, and the disease is spreading to areas where it is impossible to trace contacts and swiftly vaccinate them. It recommended a number of changes, including expanding vaccination to a third ring of people exposed to those in the second ring, and "geographic" vaccinations that would target everyone at a location without trying to track their exposure. To prevent supplies of the vaccine, made by Merck, from running out in a much larger vaccination programme, the WHO experts recommended using smaller doses. A second experimental vaccine made by Johnson & Johnson should also be rolled out. "We know that vaccination is saving lives in this outbreak, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a statement. "These recommendations account for ongoing insecurity and incorporate feedback from experts and from the affected communities that will help us continue to adapt the response." Jeremy Farrar, an infectious disease specialist and director of the Wellcome Trust global health charity, welcomed the recommendations and described the Congo outbreak as "in a truly frightening phase". "If there is any hope of bringing it under control there has to be a significant shift in the response," he said in a comment emailed to Reuters. "Without support for this new approach this epidemic could reach the scale of the terrible events in West Africa in 2013-2016." Farrar was referring to the largest Ebola outbreak in history, which infected 28,000 people in a vast epidemic that spread through Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone between 2013 and 2016. More than 11,300 people died. In the current Congo outbreak, the WHO says more than 111,000 people have been vaccinated since August. So far 1,045 of the 1,572 people with confirmed or probable Ebola have died in the outbreak, which has hit areas long prone to unrest. SAGE said the number of cases had risen rapidly in the past four weeks because security incidents had dramatically affected the tracing and monitoring of people who may have come into contact with Ebola. The Merck vaccine could run short if the outbreak continues, and doses should be halved to 0.5 ml for the primary and secondary rings, SAGE said, while they also proposed vaccination of a tertiary ring of contacts, who would receive 0.2 ml. (Reporting by Tom Miles in Geneva. Additional reporting by Kate Kelland in London; editing by John Stonestreet and xxx) By Jan Wolfe May 8 (Reuters) - A U.S. House committee on Wednesday was moving to hold U.S. Attorney General William Barr in "contempt of Congress." What does that mean? Congress has significant, if time-consuming, powers to demand witnesses and documents. One of these is the contempt citation. Democrats in the House of Representatives are threatening to use it on multiple fronts, including against Barr for ignoring a subpoena issued by the House Judiciary Committee seeking an unredacted version of the Mueller report on Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election and President Donald Trump. Trump and his administration are stonewalling several inquiries being led by House Democrats into his administration, his family and his business interests. Here is how the congressional subpoena, contempt and enforcement process works. What is a subpoena? A subpoena is a legally enforceable demand for documents, data, or witness testimony. Subpoenas are typically used by litigants in court cases. The Supreme Court has recognized Congress's power to issue subpoenas, saying in order to write laws it also needs to be able to investigate. Congress' power to issue subpoenas, while broad, is not unlimited. The high court has said Congress is not a law enforcement agency, and cannot investigate someone purely to expose wrongdoing or damaging information about them for political gain. A subpoena must potentially further some "legitimate legislative purpose," the court has said. What can Congress do to a government official who ignores a subpoena? If lawmakers want to punish someone who ignores a congressional subpoena they typically first hold the offender "in contempt of Congress," legal experts said. The contempt process can start in either the House or the Senate. Unlike with legislation, it only takes one of the chambers to make and enforce a contempt citation. Typically, the members of the congressional committee that issued the subpoena will vote on whether to move forward with a contempt finding. If a majority supports the resolution, then another vote will be held by the entire chamber. The Democrats have majority control of the House; Trump's Republican Party holds the Senate. Only a majority of the 435-member House needs to support a contempt finding for one to be reached. After a contempt vote, Congress has powers to enforce a subpoena. How is a contempt finding enforced? The Supreme Court said in 1821 that Congress has "inherent authority" to arrest and detain recalcitrant witnesses. In 1927, the high court said the Senate acted lawfully in sending its deputy sergeant-at-arms to Ohio to arrest and detain the brother of the then-attorney general, who had refused to testify about a bribery scheme known as the Teapot Dome scandal. It has been almost a century since Congress exercised this arrest-and-detain authority, and the practice is unlikely to make a comeback, legal experts said. Alternatively, Congress can ask the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a federal prosecutor, to bring criminal charges against a witness who refuses to appear. There is a criminal law that specifically prohibits flouting a congressional subpoena. But this option is also unlikely to be pursued, at least when it comes to subpoenas against executive branch officials, given that federal prosecutors are part of the branch's Justice Department. "It would be odd, structurally, because it would mean the Trump administration would be acting to enforce subpoenas against the Trump administration," said Lisa Kern Griffin, a former federal prosecutor and a law professor at Duke University. For this reason, in modern times Congress has opted for a third and final approach to enforcing a contempt finding: getting its lawyers to bring a civil lawsuit asking a judge to rule that compliance is required. Failure to comply with such an order can trigger a "contempt of court" finding, enforced through daily fines and even imprisonment, Griffin said. (Reporting by Jan Wolfe; editing by Kevin Drawbaugh, Sonya Hepinstall and Jonathan Oatis) By Jan Wolfe May 8 (Reuters) - The White House on Wednesday invoked executive privilege to block the release of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's unredacted Russia report as a U.S. House panel met to vote on holding the U.S. attorney general in contempt of Congress for withholding the document. The White House's move escalated a constitutional clash between the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives and Republican President Donald Trump over its powers to investigate him, his administration, his family and his business interests. Trump is stonewalling Congress on multiple probes, blasting the investigations as "presidential harassment." In an unusual move, he is even suing to stop the release of some materials that lawmakers want. Here is how executive privilege works and how useful it might be to Trump as the investigations close in on him. WHAT IS EXECUTIVE PRIVILEGE? Executive privilege is a legal principle that allows the president to refuse to comply with demands for information like congressional subpoenas. The doctrine is generally used to keep private the nature of conversations the president has with advisers, or internal discussions among executive branch officials. The idea is that the White House operates more effectively if the president and his aides can have private, candid conversations, without worrying about public scrutiny. WHERE DOES THE DOCTRINE COME FROM? Executive privilege is not explicitly mentioned anywhere in the Constitution, the foundation of U.S. law. But the Supreme Court has said that it is fundamental to the operation of government and inextricably rooted in the separation of powers under the Constitution. Its first use may have been President Thomas Jeffersons refusal to provide evidence in a treason prosecution against his former vice president, Aaron Burr. In the end, a judge ordered Jefferson to produce the evidence, which Burr said would exonerate him, and Burr was acquitted. The term "executive privilege" was not used until the 1950s. The doctrine's contours were unclear until a 1974 Supreme Court case. In U.S. v. Nixon, President Richard Nixon was ordered to deliver tapes and other subpoenaed materials to a federal judge for review. The justices ruled 9-0 that a president's right to privacy in his communications must be balanced against Congress' need to investigate and oversee the executive branch. U.S. v. Nixon is also widely understood to mean that executive privilege cannot be used to cover up wrongdoing. That view was endorsed by current U.S. Attorney General William Barr during his Senate confirmation hearing. One lesson of U.S. v. Nixon is that an executive privilege claim is particularly weak when Congress has invoked its power to remove a president from office through impeachment, said Frank Bowman, a law professor at the University of Missouri. In the impeachment context, "virtually no part of a presidents duties or behavior is exempt from scrutiny," Bowman said. Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama all invoked executive privilege in response to congressional investigations. But compared with previous presidents, recent ones have hesitated to claim executive privilege, in part because of how Nixon used it, said Mitchel Sollenberger, a politics professor at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. "Once you do an executive privilege claim, it becomes a politically charged event," Sollenberger said. "The media sees that, and it flares up quickly." EXECUTIVE PRIVILEGE AND THE UNREDACTED MUELLER REPORT There are so few court decisions on executive privilege that it is hard to be certain if Trump can withhold the unredacted report and underlying evidence, said Ross Garber, a lawyer in Washington who focuses on political investigations. But to prevail in court the White House will eventually need to be more specific about which documents are protected by executive privilege and why, Garber said. In a letter to Trump on Wednesday, Attorney General William Barr encouraged the president to make a "preliminary, protective assertion of executive privilege designed to ensure your ability to make a final assertion, if necessary, over some or all of the subpoenaed materials." Some legal experts have argued that Trump long ago forfeited, or waived, his right to make an executive privilege claim over conversations described by witnesses in Mueller's investigation and related documents. Much like the attorney-client privilege, executive privilege is intended to keep conversations private. Generally speaking, once third parties are told about such conversations, they are no longer secret and the privilege has been waived, legal experts said. Other lawyers have argued that making witnesses available for interviews with law enforcement officials is not a total waiver of executive privilege. They said Trump could still invoke the doctrine to limit disclosure of documents relating to the interviews. HOW DOES CONGRESS COMBAT AN EXECUTIVE PRIVILEGE CLAIM? If documents are not produced, Congress can vote to hold administration officials "in contempt of Congress" and then go to court and ask a judge to issue an order forcing them to comply. The judge would then decide the merits of an executive privilege claim. The House Judiciary Committee was slated to vote on Wednesday on a resolution recommending the full House find Barr in contempt of Congress. (Reporting by Jan Wolfe in Washington; Editing by Kevin Drawbaugh, Peter Cooney and Jonathan Oatis) Colorado's Rib & Chop House | Photo: Jessica M./Yelp Interested in getting the lowdown the freshest new spots in Powers? From a steakhouse to a New American pub, read on for the newest spots to land in this part of Colorado Springs. Colorado's Rib & Chop House 5935 Dublin Blvd., Suite 190 Photo: Buck B./Yelp Colorado's Rib & Chop House is a steakhouse and bar, offering seafood and more. Colorado's Rib & Chop House, which has several additional locations throughout the West, serves up steaks, chicken, pasta, seafood and more. On the menu, look for baby back ribs, cedar plank salmon and charbroiled chicken. With four stars out of nine reviews on Yelp, Colorado's Rib & Chop House has been garnering positive attention. Yelper Jessica M., who reviewed Colorado's Rib & Chop House on April 29, wrote, "My burger was beautifully presented with melting cheddar shreds. The bun was butter-toasted and fantastic." Keri B. added, "The customer service here is five stars." Colorado's Rib & Chop House is open from 11 a.m.10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Chick-fil-A 5905 Dublin Blvd. Photo: Israel g./Yelp Chick-fil-A is a spot to score fast food and more. It offers both drive-thru service and indoor seating. The menu features breakfast sandwiches, chicken tenders, sandwiches, sides and kids' meals. Chick-fil-A currently holds 3.5 stars out of four reviews on Yelp, indicating the newcomer is finding its way, but it's still in the early days. Yelper Israel G., who reviewed Chick-fil-A on Jan. 31, wrote, "Really nice Chick-fil-A, big dining area with some comfortable seats." Yelper Mateo H. wrote, "Friendly staff like always, and they are very fast in the drive-thru." Chick-fil-A is open from 6 a.m.10 p.m. on Monday through Saturday. (It's closed on Sunday.) Hops n Drops 5820 Stetson Hills Blvd. Photo: hops n drops/Yelp Hops n Drops is a New American spot and bar. The menu features a range of burgers, including a veggie burger and a breakfast burger with a fried egg, bacon, lettuce and tomato. This chain restaurant also offers sandwiches, wraps and more. Hand-shaken cocktails are one of its specialties. Story continues Hops n Drops' current rating of four stars out of 81 reviews on Yelp demonstrates that it is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. Yelper Vince B., who reviewed Hops n Drops on April 17, wrote, "It's an awesome place to go to relax, eat and have a drink after a long week." Jill F. noted, "I tried the French onion soup, which was some of the best French onion soup I've ever had, as advertised. Rich brothy soup with bread and plenty of cheese." Hops n Drops is open from 11 a.m.11 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.midnight on Friday, 8 a.m.midnight on Saturday and 8 a.m.11 p.m. on Sunday. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. VIENNA, May 8 (Reuters) - Iran's president on Wednesday threatened to reduce his country's implementation of its nuclear commitments under its landmark 2015 deal with major powers. That deal, signed by the United States, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany, lifted international sanctions against Iran in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear activities. The United States withdrew from the deal a year ago and re-imposed its sanctions. The deal's restrictions were aimed at extending the time Iran would need to produce a nuclear bomb, if it chose to, to a year from roughly 2-3 months. The United States and the U.N. nuclear watchdog believe Iran had a nuclear weapons program that it abandoned. Tehran denies ever having had one. Below are some of the key restrictions imposed by the nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. URANIUM ENRICHMENT LEVEL The biggest obstacle to producing nuclear weapons is obtaining enough fissile material - weapons-grade highly enriched uranium or plutonium - for the bomb's core. The deal caps the level of purity to which Iran can enrich uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, at 3.67 percent, far below the 90 percent of weapons grade. It is also well below the 20 percent level to which Iran enriched uranium before the deal. The 3.67 percent cap lasts 15 years. ENRICHMENT CAPACITY Iran has two vast enrichment sites, at Natanz and Fordow. Much of Natanz is deep underground and Fordow is buried inside a mountain, which is widely believed to protect them from aerial bombardment. The deal allows Iran to continue enrichment at Natanz but with constraints. It turns Fordow into a "nuclear, physics and technology center" where centrifuges are used for purposes other than enrichment, like producing stable isotopes https://www.iaea.org/topics/nuclear-science/isotopes/stable-isotopes. The JCPOA also: - Slashes the number of centrifuges installed in Iran to roughly 6,000 from around 19,000 before the deal https://www.iaea.org/sites/default/files/gov-2015-34.pdf Story continues - Only allows Iran to produce enriched uranium with its first-generation IR-1 centrifuges - Allows Iran to use small numbers of more advanced centrifuges for research, but without accumulating enriched uranium, for 10 years URANIUM STOCK Caps Iran's stock of low-enriched uranium at 300 kg of uranium hexafluoride enriched to 3.67 percent or its equivalent for 15 years. It produced tonnes before the deal, and any excess enriched uranium was either downblended to the level of natural uranium or shipped out of the country in exchange for natural uranium. The United States said in 2015 that the deal reduced Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium by 98 percent, to less than the amount needed for one weapon from enough for about 10 previously. CUTTING OFF THE PLUTONIUM TRACK Iran was further away from being able to produce a weapon with plutonium than with uranium. It was building a heavy-water reactor at Arak that could eventually have produced spent fuel from which plutonium could be separated. Under the JCPOA: - The core of that reactor has been removed and filled with concrete to make it unusable - The reactor is being redesigned so as to "minimize the production of plutonium and not to produce weapon-grade plutonium in normal operation" - All spent fuel from Arak will be shipped out of Iran, for the reactor's lifetime. - Iran commits not to engage in reprocessing or reprocessing research activities for 15 years. - Iran can continue to produce heavy water, used as a moderator in reactors like Arak, but its stock is capped around 130 tonnes. It has previously shipped excess amounts out of the country for storage or sold them. This restriction lasts 15 years. MORE INTRUSIVE OVERSIGHT The JCPOA: - Requires Iran to provisionally apply the International Atomic Energy Agency's Additional Protocol - which grants the agency wide-ranging inspection powers - and "subsequently seek ratification and entry into force." - Grants U.N. nuclear inspectors daily access to Natanz and Fordow for 15 years. - Says the deal's signatories must vet Iran's purchases of nuclear or dual-use equipment. - Bans Iran from carrying out a range of activities that could contribute to making a nuclear bomb, such as computer simulations of a nuclear explosion or designing certain multi-point detonation systems. In some cases, those activities can be carried out with the other signatories' approval. (Reporting by Francois Murphy) Kelly Worgan who was murdered at home by her husband in an unprovoked and apparently unplanned attack. (SWNS) A father-of-two has been jailed for life after he murdered his wife then left a note for his kids saying "daddy loves you''. George Worgan, 35, admitted strangling Kelly Worgan, 33, with a ligature at their house on November 28 last year. He then left a note on the stairs asking for the children be stopped from going into the room where Kelly's body lay dead - adding: "Daddy loves you." Worgan, of Avonmouth, Bristol, then fled north in the family car having packed only a handful of clothes, a large knife and Kelly's phone and bank cards. Police were eventually able to stop him around 300 miles away on the M6 near Cumbria where he was charged with murder and dangerous driving. A general view of police presence outside Bristol Crown Court, Small Street, Bristol. When they caught up to officers said Worgan could barely keep his eyes open and admitted to he had taken a number of antidepressants and paracetamol pills. Bristol Crown Court heard there was no record of domestic violence nor did Worgan have a any previous convictions. Just hours before Kelly was murdered she watched one of their children in a school assembly along with her husband. At the time of Kellys death, the couple were experiencing extreme financial difficulties and problems between Kelly and members of the defendant's family. It is believed the couple were arguing about these issues before Kelly died. Worgan wrote in the note he left: "No more suffering, I am sorry I got pushed too far this time. A general view of the mirrored sign outside Bristol Crown Court, Small Street, Bristol. Both Worgan's defence counsel Mr Richard Smith QC and Judge Blair QC said none of the mitigating factors mentioned in the case explained or mitigated the violent outburst that caused Kelly's death. Prosecutor Kate Brenner QC described Kelly as a bubbly person and devoted mother going on to explain the huge impact Kelly's murder has had on her family, in particular her two young children. Ms Brenner read victim impact statements written by Kelly's family, in which her parents Glynnis and Paul Holder described the moment they were told as like being plunged into a "nightmare". Story continues Mrs Holder said: Now neither of the children want to sleep in their own bed and and ask to go to her grave so they can talk to her. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Wasps are smarter than bees - researchers claim Royal baby will not suffer racism in UK Tributes pour in to big hearted soldier killed by elephant In his defence, Mr Smith drew attention to the couple's relationship which, it was agreed, was a mostly loving one which had become strained. Mr Smith added the defendant claims he has no recollection of the murder itself and has since behaved without emotion, unable to properly communicate. During the hearing, Worgan spoke only to confirm his name and sat in silence throughout wearing a striped cream and brown jumper over a white shirt. He was jailed for life and told he must serve at least 12-and-a-half years before he is eligible for parole. He said: "I have read a note from you in which you said you feel angry towards yourself, you wish you could turn the clock back. It tackles your remorse but doesn't provide an answer as to why you did what you did." HELSINKI (Reuters) - Finland's Social Democrats said on Wednesday they would seek a centre-left governing coalition with the Centre Party and three smaller partners following a parliamentary election last month. The Social Democrats (SDP) came out on top in the April 14 election for the first time in 20 yeas but with a record low 17.7 percent of the vote, forcing them to ally with other parties to form a government. SDP chairman Antti Rinne said he would work on forming a coalition with outgoing Prime Minister Juha Sipila's Centre Party as his main partner, while other partners would be the Greens, the Left Alliance and the Swedish People's Party. If Rinne secures the coalition behind a joint programme, he would steer Finland a step leftward after Sipila's centre-right government, which included the right-leaning National Coalition. He would also succeed in keeping the nationalist, eurosceptic Finns Party, which came second in the election at 17.5 percent, only 0.2 percent behind the SDP, out of the government despite a rapid growth in their popularity. The Finns Party made rapid gains in the polls ahead of the elections and scored first with 18.7 percent in the first post-election survey by Finland's largest daily Helsingin Sanomat on Monday. Rinne said his five-party coalition would hold 117 seats in the 200-seat parliament. "If we succeed in our government talks to draft a programme that satisfies this team, it means we'll have a clear majority government emerging in Finland," he told reporters. The Centre Party came fourth in the election with 13.8 percent, a 100-year low. But Rinne, a former union boss, said he believed it would be easier to agree a joint programme with the party than with the pro-austerity National Coalition. In his election campaign, Rinne promised tax hikes to preserve Finland's vast public welfare state, while the National Coalition sought to lower taxes to stimulate the economy. Story continues The National Coalition's chairman and Finland's outgoing finance minister Petteri Orpo said he understood Rinne's choice. Orpo said his party's views on "the economy, employment and fiscal policy...were decidedly far from how (Rinne) sees this ensemble," he said. But finding common ground with Sipila, who as premier wanted to cut costs and debt, is unlikely to prove easy for Rinne. Rinne said he hoped to conclude talks by May 24 and have the government nominated in the first days of June, ahead of Finland's EU presidency that begins July 1. (Reporting by Anne Kauranen; Editing by Mark Heinrich) When Guangzhou-based GAC Group rolled out a concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show last January it was just the latest among a procession of Chinese automakers laying out plans to enter the American car market. To date, however, the only Chinese-made vehicles to reach U.S. shores have been imported by General Motors(GM) and Volvo. But Zotye Auto, a small, privately held carmaker from Yongkang, Zhejiang, China, is determined to be the first domestic Chinese car company to reach American shores and in as little as 18 months from now. With a name that few Americans will likely know how to pronounce it's Zoh-tay, not Zot-yee a small budget and even less brand equity than bigger Chinese brands like BYD, Geely or Great Wall, there are plenty of skeptics. Americans "have a bad perception of Chinese vehicles, overall," cautioned Augusto Amorim, a senior analyst with LMC Automotive. And Zotye is particularly unknown, he said. But the team of industry veterans who are leading the Zotye launch effort are confident they can pull it off, including seasoned salesman Duke Hale, 69, who sold his first car as a teenager and has spent decades working with automakers as diverse as Isuzu, Lotus and Land Rover. Hale said he's confident his "seven Ps" strategy will clinch the deal. The list includes such things as "processes" and "product." The first model expected to enter Zotye's U.S. lineup debuted barely a month ago at Auto Shanghai. The T600 is a compact crossover that will be aimed at the likes of the Toyota(7203.T-JP) RAV4 and Honda(7267.T-JP) CR-V. It will be followed in 2022 by the midsize T700 crossover and, about a year later, by a three-row model. But while the T600 has generated some positive press, Hale believes the brand's biggest selling point will be "price." "Think in terms of 20% less than the targeted competition," notably including the likes of Hyundai(538-KR), Kia and Toyota(7203.T-JP), Hale said over dinner with journalists at the Detroit Renaissance Center on Thursday. Story continues That's an even bigger discount than Hyundai offered buyers when it came to the U.S. market 30 years ago and with a name that was equally baffling to American consumers. And it would come at a decidedly opportune time. Industry officials such as Joe Hinrichs, Ford's(F) president of automotive operations, have openly worried about the rising cost of today's new vehicles. The average sticker price of a new car hit a record $34,000 at the beginning of the year, according to data compiled by industry research company LMC Automotive. Industry observers note that translates into a typical monthly payment of around $550, enough to price millions of potential buyers out of the market, especially millennial and Gen-Z motorists, many already straining to pay off student loans. Jan Thompson, a former marketing executive with Mazda and Toyota who's now handling that role for Zotye, said the Chinese brand's primary buyers will be young shoppers who don't want to buy a used car. But with an estimated 42 million used vehicles sold in 2019, nearly three times more than new, customers could come from every market demographic, she said. "I tell my neighbors in Tennessee I'm going to sell a Chinese car and they all say they're not interested," she said. "Then I tell them the price and they all ask where they can sign up." Unlike South Korean automakers Hyundai, Kia, Zotye won't actually run the show, if and when its cars come to the U.S. The marketing operation actually lifts a page from the strategy several Japanese automakers used in decades past when they tried to pry open the door to the U.S. market. Subaru(7270.T-JP), Mazda(7261.T-JP) and even Toyota initially relied on independent American distributors the Japanese giant still represented by one in a number of Southern states. Hale's HAAH Automotive Holdings negotiated a deal to import and distribute Zotye's products in the U.S., a plan the Chinese carmaker was more than glad to accept, he said, considering it currently has capacity to build 1 million vehicles annually but only sold about 400,000 last year. The arrangement gives HAAH plenty of flexibility and, in fact, "There are probably more brands to be announced in the future," he said Thursday, suggesting his privately held company is negotiating with several other Chinese wannabe exporters. Of course, the real question is whether HAAH will get past the bright-idea stage. There have been plenty of attempts to set up new brands in the U.S. over the past 20 years but only Tesla has so far succeeded. Notable failures include India's Mahindra & Mahindra(MAHM-IN) which even had lined up a network of dealers, early in the decade, before throwing in the towel. The good news for HAAH and Zotye is that they claim to be generating strong interest from dealers, with several dozen now signed on representing 60 "points" in 15 states, and negotiations are well underway with about 20 others, according to sales chief Bob Pradzinski, who has spent decades working for Asian automakers including Hyundai, Mazda and Toyota. What might surprise buyers is that despite record new vehicle prices, the typical automotive retailer loses about $331 for every car, truck or crossover they sell, according to the National Automobile Dealers Association. They have to try to make that up by pushing finance, insurance and service. Hale and his team are trying to make it easier more profitable for dealers. Zotye plans to use a "no haggle/no hassle" approach to pricing, like Saturn. And dealers will be offered large geographic franchises in which they could set up multiple outlets. That could include showrooms in malls, something Tesla has done. Hale and his team acknowledged there are plenty of potential obstacles, like meeting U.S. emissions, mileage and safety standards, for one. The trade war between the U.S. and China is also an issue, although Hale said he's confident it will be resolved well before the first Zotye is ordered in the U.S. "They seem serious about getting into the market and are clearly trying to understand what buyers want," said analyst Amorim. While it will likely be a challenge for any Chinese makers, especially in a market already crowded with so many brands, he believes Zotye and HAAH could "have a higher chance of being successful" if they can execute the plan Hale and his team have put together. Correction: This article was updated to correct the phonetic spelling of the company to Zoh-tay, instead of Zoh-tee. The original pronunciation provided to CNBC was incorrect. The price of copper is one way to measure economic growth and chart an investment strategy, according to Quint Tatro, managing director at Joule Financial. The idea that the bull run is over might be a little premature, Tatro told Yahoo Finance On the Move. This has been a great leading indicator of the overall market and the health of the global economy. Copper was trading at $2.77 a pound Wednesday, down from its year-to-date high of $2.97, reached just a few weeks ago. Tatro said he would only become concerned about a hit to the U.S. economy if copper fell below $2.50. If you just look back at the spot price of copper over the last couple of years, its given you a great indication of pretty significant turning points, he said. Several money managers use the price of copper to help them gauge economic turning points, which is how the term Doctor Copper came into vogue. Demand for copper is expected to continue rising over the long term since the base metal is used across a wide sector of industries. Construction as well as high-tech manufacturers rely on it to produce tubing, wire and circuitry. Global demand hit 23.6 million tons last year with annual growth expected to run at a rate of about 2.6% over the next several years, according to an analysis by Fitch Solutions. But right now copper prices are approaching three-month lows. China purchases about 50% of the worlds copper production. Emily Roland, the investment management head of capital markets research at John Hancock, said while China continues to be the growth engine of the global economy, I think some of the weakness in copper is telling us that growth is decelerating there. Tatro agrees that future economic growth in the U.S. hinges on a successful trade agreement with China and he says the recent market dips caused by uncertainty over the outcome of trade negotiations, have ultimately been buying opportunities. Tatro said he has some cash and is looking to put it to work after a check-up with Doctor Copper. Adam Shapiro is the co-anchor of Yahoo Finances On the Move. By Nelson Acosta HAVANA, May 8 (Reuters) - Foreign companies operating in Cuba's tourism sector said at an industry fair this week they would continue investing in the Caribbean's largest island despite new U.S. sanctions designed to choke its already beleaguered economy. The Trump administration said last month it was tightening U.S. travel restrictions on Communist-run Cuba and allowing U.S. citizens to bring lawsuits against foreign companies profiting from property taken from them after Cuba's 1959 revolution. The administration is seeking to pressure Cuba's Communist government into giving up its support for embattled Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. "It's obviously a very awkward situation but we will keep on advancing," said Juan Antonio Montes, general director of the Spanish hotel group Barcelo, which has been based in Cuba for two decades. Regarding the implementation of the long-dormant section of the 1996 Helms-Burton Act allowing U.S. lawsuits against companies using confiscated property, he said Barcelo would seek a legal way "to be more protected." "But we do not have any kind of intention to leave or to modify any current plans," he said. The European Union and Canada, whose companies are the top investors in Cuba, particularly in the tourism and mining sectors, have denounced the Trump administration's implementation of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act. They say it is not valid under international law and their companies could dispose of blocking legislation, for example, to make counterclaims for any U.S. suits they may face. "Our aim is to keep investing in Cuba and for our companies to have the willingness to contribute to the development of the island," Spain's tourism minister, Reyes Maroto, said at the opening of Cuba's tourism fair on Tuesday. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, who replaced Raul Castro last year, met on Tuesday with foreign businessmen, including the head of Canadian mining company Sherritt, to reassure them about the security of their investments under Cuban law. Story continues Cuba has sought to attract foreign capital ever since the fall of former benefactor the Soviet Union, hoping it could help vitalize its beleaguered, still heavily centralized economy. "This was an important sign for all companies working in Cuba," said Alessandro Benedetti, an executive for Swiss-based Kempinski Hotels SA, which runs the luxury Gran Hotel Manzana in Havana, which opened in 2017. Cruise operator Carnival Corp became the first company sued for profiting from expropriated Cuban property last week under Title III of Helms-Burton by U.S. citizens who hold titles to the Santiago de Cuba and Havana ports. The ports are used by numerous U.S. cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines, which therefore could also face suits. (Reporting by Nelson Acosta Additional reporting by Sarah Marsh and Reuters TV Editing by Leslie Adler) PARIS, May 8 (Reuters) - France on Wednesday called for an unconditional ceasefire in the Libya conflict under international supervision after a meeting between President Emmanuel Macron and U.N.-backed Libyan Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj. "Noting that there is no military solution to the Libyan conflict, and to put an end to the military offensive launched towards Tripoli, the President of the Republic encouraged an unconditional ceasefire," Macron's office said in a statement. "He stressed the need to protect civilian populations. In this context, the proposal was put forward to delimit a ceasefire line, under international supervision." (Reporting by Sybille de La Hamaide; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) By Ahmed Elumami and Sybille de La Hamaide TRIPOLI/PARIS (Reuters) - France's President Emmanuel Macron called on Wednesday for a ceasefire in the month-long battle for Libya's capital Tripoli after fighting hit a migrant detention centre overnight. With foreign powers aghast at the latest flare-up in a nation that has been in chaos since the 2011 toppling of Muammar Gaddafi, Macron met the internationally-recognised Libyan Prime Minister Fayez al-Serraj in Paris. "Noting that there is no military solution to the Libyan conflict ... the proposal was put forward to delimit a ceasefire line, under international supervision," Macron's office said in a statement afterwards, backing a U.N. peace plan and elections. France has in the past been supportive of eastern Libyan forces commander Khalifa Haftar, who launched an assault on Serraj's Tripoli base in early April under the banner of combating terrorism and restoring order. With Haftar's troops bogged down in southern outskirts, fighting has been raging through the night but slowing in the day as the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan began this week. Overnight, there was shelling on a camp of pro-Serraj fighters, witnesses said. Shrapnel struck the roof of a nearby migrants' detention centre in the eastern suburb of Tajoura. Two people were injured by the strike near the detention facility holding 500 migrants and refugees, the U.N. refugee agency UNHCR said in a statement. It appealed for the release of 3,460 foreign detainees caught near the fighting. Frightened migrants, who had come mainly from sub-Saharan African nations hoping to reach Europe by sea, pleaded for rescue. "We have almost lost hope in our life," one migrant at the centre told Reuters, declining to give his name. "War here is too much. Please, we need help." HUNDREDS DEAD AND INJURED The Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) charity said a hole was blown open in a hangar housing women, nearly hitting one infant. "How many more lives must be threatened before these vulnerable people are evacuated?" Story continues The fighting has killed 443 people and injured another 2,110, with 60,000 forced to flee their homes, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Showing the challenge of finding a political solution even if a ceasefire can be reached, Serraj told TV channel France24 that Haftar was attempting a power grab. "Haftar and (his armed groups) only want to control power in Tripoli under the pretext of war on terrorism and militias," he said, urging a "clearer stance" from Paris towards Haftar. The conflict has threatened to disrupt OPEC member Libya's oil shipments, fuel migration to Europe, and encourage jihadists to exploit the power vacuum as the administrations in east and west face off. It has also frozen the U.N. peace plan and exposed divisions in Europe and the Gulf. Haftar, a former general in Gaddafi's army who later turned against him, enjoys the backing of the United Arab Emirates and Egypt. He also received military support from France which helped him take over the eastern city of Benghazi in 2017. Serraj, whose supporters say Haftar is a would-be dictator in the same mould as Gaddafi, met Macron after visiting Germany and Italy. The U.N. mission in Libya said it was deeply concerned about a sharp increase in kidnappings and arbitrary arrests during the Tripoli conflict, including the abduction of two Libyan TV journalists on May 2 whose fate remained unknown. (Additional reporting by Tom Miles and Stephanie Nebehay in Geneva; Writing by Ulf Laessing; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Catherine Evans) The sheep were enrolled at a French school so it would not be closed. (GETTY) Fifteen sheep have been signed up to join a French primary school as parents try and stop the Alps school from closing due to the lack of students. The local farmer came to the rescue after the school in Crets en Belledonne, a village at the foot of the Alps, was told one of its 11 classes would be closed after numbers fell from 266 to 261. On Tuesday morning, a local herder and his dog came to school with 50 sheep in tow, 15 of whom were officially registered after showing their birth certificates. More on Yahoo News: Farmer shoots millionaires dogs after sheep attack and delivers dead bodies back to owner Victorian man charged over sheep rustling Added to the register was a pupil called Baa-bete and another called Saute-Mouton in a ceremony watched by children, parents and teachers. One of the parents behind the initiative, Gaelle Laval, said: Now we wont have to close any classes. The parents of children at the school have accused the national education authority of being more concerned about numbers than about the childrens welfare. Mayor Jean-Louis Maret has also questioned the annoying threshold logic that could prompt the schools closure. In 2011, the Federal Trade Commission settled charges with Facebook that the social networking giant deceived consumers by telling them they could keep their information on Facebook private, and then repeatedly allowing it to be shared and made public. Today, the company is again in hot water for, among other things, misusing private user data, failing to stop the spread of fake news and enabling the distribution of toxic and violent multimedia. But the company isnt the only one in trouble. Now the regulator who is in charge of policing markets the FTC is facing a crisis of legitimacy. The reason is simple. We know that Mark Zuckerberg will do whatever he feels he can get away with. And he can get away with a lot; Facebooks surveillance-based business model is a money printing machine, garnering $55bn of revenue last year. At a certain point, however, after a bank robber has shown he will keep robbing banks, the right question isnt why the bank robber does what he does, its Where are the cops? Over the past two weeks, the FTC has reportedly been negotiating a $3bn to $5bn fine, which sounds like a lot of money, and which the commission will no doubt describe as record-breaking. But when compared with Facebooks revenue, it is an unimportant amount. That amount is between 5% and 10% of the companys annual revenue, the equivalent to what it will generate in revenue in three weeks. Upon the rumors becoming public, the stock value of the company jumped by roughly $40bn. Related: The privacy paradox: why do people keep using tech firms that abuse their data? | John Naughton The money isnt the end of the settlement talks. Facebook would also have to create an in-house privacy committee, and appoint a federally approved privacy official to oversee and report biannually on Facebooks compliance. Plus, CEO Mark Zuckerberg would probably become the companys own designated compliance officer. Thats right, the man who recently joked I know we dont exactly have the strongest reputation on privacy right now, while facing down a year of controversy and ongoing federal investigations, may personally oversee privacy efforts at the company. Story continues What is especially pathetic is the company probably wont even have to admit wrongdoing. The FTC is an agency in crisis. Last year at his nominating hearing, the FTC chairman, Joe Simons, pledged to look at big tech platforms for potential bad behavior. That, he said, is where the action is. Simons has done nothing on tech and very little in general so far. For example, the FTC under Simons has not challenged a single corporate merger in court. The primary problem here isnt just that the FTCs leadership is weak, though it is. Its that the commission has no underlying goal for the settlement except to get a good headline and hopefully get Congress and the public to stop paying attention. This is not a coherent way to address the crisis in the social media industry that Facebook reflects. Any competent regulator must first frame the problem they are trying to address. In this case, the problem is simple. First, the company has a culture of immorality and lawlessness, epitomized by the slogan Move Fast and Break Things. Second, the company operates in a market where the incentive is to gather as much personally identifiable data as possible so it can use that data to profit through individually targeted advertising. This induces privacy violations no matter what the rules say. When framed properly, the solutions become obvious, at least at a high level. The first step is to force Mark Zuckerberg to admit he did wrong. This would send a message through Facebooks entire company, which right now is composed of many executives and engineers who think the media is just picking on them. Theres also an important legal consequence to such an admission. It would also open up the company to private lawsuits by the victims of Facebooks strategy. Letting Facebook settle without an admission of wrongdoing would be handing the company a win: a legal shield to protect it from real accountability. The company could then use this new settlement in fending off litigation from state enforcers. It is already trying to keep executives records sealed in a court case with the Washington DC attorney general, Karl Racine. (Of course, Facebook would not be alone in avoiding an admission of wrongdoing as part of an FTC settlement. In August 2017, Uber, another tech giant plagued by scandal and privacy concerns, settled an FTC complaint over its mishandling of private user and driver data, neither admitting nor denying wrongdoing. PayPal, which owns Venmo, settled with the agency in February 2018, for misleading consumers about their transaction privacy on the peer-to-peer payment service; the company did not admit to any wrongdoing, either.) After an admission of wrongdoing, the second step is to restructure the business model of Facebook so it has no incentive to collect and exploit data. The FTC could follow the example of the German federal cartel office, which put aggressive restrictions on the data the company can use for targeted advertising purposes. Without the ability to exploit data for profit, Facebook would no longer have a reason to collect it. There are many other potential solutions, but the point of any of them would be to attack the culture of lawlessness in the company and eliminate the motivation to collect data. Facebook will fight any such demands, and the FTC will have to go to court to enforce them. If the FTCs litigation department is not up to the challenge, Simons must act to bring its quality up to snuff. And if the courts block the FTC from acting, then the commission will have a reason to ask for more authority from Congress. But we dont want to try is no longer enough. At the very least, given Facebooks repeated misconduct, the FTC must require something meaningful beyond a settlement designed to get headlines for the size of the fine. This seems unlikely. Its time Congress took a hard look at the agency itself. It must immediately examine the FTCs settlement with Facebook as well as the investigation, and it must move money from the FTCs budget to state attorneys general, such as Tish James in New York or Racine in DC, who are acting to protect consumers and users from unrepentant data companies such as Facebook. It is clear the FTC has failed to hold powerful companies accountable. A settlement with Facebook, requiring no admission of wrongdoing, would further prove the agencys fecklessness. But its up to Congress to say enough, and move taxpayer money to enforcers who actually seem intent on doing their jobs. The right question at this point is not Why is Mark Zuckerberg violating my privacy? We know why. Its profitable. The right question is, Where are the cops? (For a live blog on European stocks, type LIVE/ in an Eikon news window) * FTSE 100, FTSE 250 down 0.1 pct * Sino-U.S. trade worries hit Asia-facing banks * Direct Line down after weak quarter, Admiral also lower * Travis Perkins outshines mid-caps May 8 (Reuters) - Britain's FTSE 100 inched lower amid uncertainty over this week's U.S.-China trade talks and weak quarterly updates, which took down broadcaster ITV and insurer Direct Line. The FTSE 100 and the FTSE 250 were both down 0.1 percent by 0715 GMT. Investors remained tentative before Chinese Vice Premier Liu He arrived in Washington to try to salvage a trade deal. Asia-exposed HSBC and Prudential again led the losses on the FTSE 100. Direct Line Insurance shed 1.6 percent after Britain's largest motor insurer reported a drop in quarterly gross written premiums. Rival Admiral Group gave up 1.7 percent. Broadcaster ITV was 2.2 percent lower after it said the late timing of Easter and political and economic uncertainty led to weaker advertising demand in the first quarter. Imperial Brands affirmed its full-year forecast, but the tobacco company's shares fell 1.6 percent as half-year sales were only in line with analysts' estimates. Outperforming the mid-cap index was Travis Perkins, Britain's largest distributor of building materials. It gained 4.6 percent on higher quarterly underlying sales. (Reporting by Shashwat Awasthi in Bengaluru, editing by Larry King) One day after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Donald Trump is goading us to impeach him, the president's erstwhile confidant Chris Christie basically dared Democrats to do just that. Interviewed Wednesday at the SALT Conference in Las Vegas alongside former Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Christie, who endorsed Trump in 2016 after dropping his own presidential bid, said Democrats could seek to impeach Trump but know it would be politically stupid. If they want to do it, game on. If they want to do it, go ahead and do it, but stop skirting around the edges and acting as if you may do, but you may not do it and try to make a political point out of it, Christie, the former governor of New Jersey, said. Either do it or dont, otherwise, lets have a political election in 2020 and people can decide these issues then. Photo: Andrew Harnik/AP The Trump White House has defied congressional subpoenas seeking a full, unredacted version of special counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian election interference in the 2016 presidential election. The House Judiciary Committee voted Tuesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to turn over the report. We are now in a constitutional crisis, said Judiciary Chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y. It sounds like hes asking us to impeach him, Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, said last week. He puts us in a position where we at least have to look at it. Pelosi echoed that remark Tuesday. Trump is goading us to impeach him, Pelosi said at an event sponsored by Cornell Universitys Institute of Politics and Global Affairs. Thats what hes doing. Every single day, hes just like taunting, taunting, taunting. He knows that it would be very divisive in the country, she continued. But he doesnt really care. He just wants to solidify his base. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie in 2017. (Photo: Julio Cortez/AP) Christie said Trump was within his rights to exert executive privilege over the Mueller report and in seeking to prevent his former White House counsel, Don McGahn, from testifying. Story continues I know a lot of people dont like this, but he was elected president of the United States by the American people. They are the ultimate deciders on his truthfulness or untruthfulness, unless hes brought before an impeachment hearing in the House of Representatives and a trial in the United States Senate, which the Democrats like to kind of skirt around because they know its politically stupid to do, Christie said. They just want to get around the edges of it and imply it but not do it, because, by the way, if they wanted to go back to the Don McGahn issue, if they wanted Don McGahn to testify, open an impeachment hearing. Then Don McGahn would have no basis not to come and testify. But they dont want to do that because theyre afraid it would rebound on them the same way that it rebounded on Republicans when they did it to Bill Clinton. Sessions, who is entertaining the possibility of running once more for Senate in his home state of Alabama, praised William Barr, his successor at the Department of Justice, and portrayed the clash between the executive and legislative branches as nothing new. I dont think were ... at a constitutional crisis yet and I dont think very close to it, Sessions said. Theres been some squabbles between Congress and the Department of Justice and Cabinet agencies for years over all kinds of discovery questions, documents and that sort of thing. _____ Read more from Yahoo News: By Jane Ross LOS ANGELES, May 8 (Reuters) - Twenty years after he left medical drama "ER," George Clooney returns to television this month with an adaptation of Joseph Heller's "Catch-22," a novel whose complexity the actor said made it ideal for a six-part series. The Oscar winner, known for films like "Syriana," "Gravity" and "The Monuments Men," also served as executive producer and directed two episodes of the Hulu series set during World War Two about a member of a U.S. bomber squadron fighting the higher-ups in the military bureaucracy. "I thought it was a fun way to tell this story. It's hard to tell this story as complex as it is in a two-hour movie," Clooney said at the series premiere in Los Angeles on Tuesday evening. "It's never been about the medium although television and streaming has gotten much more interesting and more fun, it was more about telling the story. It's about telling good stories." Heller's 1961 novel, previously adapted into a 1970 movie, follows U.S. bombardier Yossarian who is infuriated that the army keeps raising the number of missions he must fly to be released from duty. Yossarian's only way to avoid the missions is to declare insanity, but the only way to prove insanity is a willingness to embark on more of the highly dangerous bombing runs, thus creating the novel's absurd 'Catch-22.' "The Sinner" actor Christopher Abbott stars as Yossarian while "The Wolf of Wall Street" actor Kyle Chandler plays his commander, Colonel Cathcart. Clooney portrays training commander Scheisskopf. "It's a heightened piece, it's satirical, it's dramatic, it's harrowing, it's very funny," Abbott said. "It kind of lives in a world on its own but I think the themes are kind of universal because they're really just about the human condition." At the premiere, Clooney also talked about his friend and former actress Meghan Markle, who married Britain's Prince Harry last year and gave birth to their first child on Monday. Story continues Clooney, who attended the couple's wedding last year, has previously criticized the media for harassing Meghan and said the arrival of their son would lead to increased media scrutiny. "I think it'll intensify it, of course. But it's never about the media following you around because...if you're a royal, that's part of what you have to do," he said "It's the other versions of it: going to interview people's parents, that kind of stuff that it starts to step into a really dark place...It just, sort of, the press turned on them and...I think people should be a little kinder. She's a young woman who just had a baby." (Reporting By Jane Ross; Editing by Angus MacSwan) Leah Mills/Reuters Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed a controversial abortion bill Tuesday that bans abortion as early as six weeks, over protests from reproductive rights groups and Hollywood stars. The so-called heartbeat law bans abortion once a fetal heartbeat can be detectedin some cases, as early as six weeks gestation. Reproductive rights advocates say the law is essentially a ban on abortion, as most women do not know they are pregnant that early. Abortion foes see it as a means to challenge Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion across the country. The Georgia legislation is the fourth such law to be passed this year, but heartbeat measures in Ohio, Mississippi, and Kentucky were all blocked by legal challenges before they could be enacted. Both the ACLU and Center for Reproductive Rights said Tuesday that they will sue to block the law in Georgia as well. Governor Kemp put politics before the health and well-being of Georgia women and their families, Talcott Camp, deputy director of the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project, said in a statement. This bill is part of an orchestrated national agenda to push abortion care out of reach and we wont stand for it. The Georgia law has drawn increased scrutiny because of the states prominent role in the film industry. Actress Alyssa Milano led more than 30 Georgia-based film and TV workers in a protest of the bill at the state capital in April, where she declared they would do everything in our power to move our industry to a safer state if the bill became law. Others have called on Netflix to move all filming out of the state. The streaming service previously stopped filming in North Carolina after the state passed a law that many said was discriminatory towards transgender people. Netflix did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the Georgia law. The first heartbeat bill was considered an extreme proposition when it was first proposed in 2011, even by some in the anti-abortion movement. But the legislation has seen a surge in popularity since 2018, as states race to bring a challenge to Roe v. Wade before the new conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court. The last year alone saw a 63 percent increase in the introduction of heartbeat bills, according to the Guttmacher Institute. Story continues Georgia Right to Lifepart of an anti-abortion group that opposed the heartbeat bill when it was first introduced in Ohionow says the legislation doesnt go far enough. Executive Director Genevieve Wilson told CNN that the group "believes in promoting social justice for all preborn children, without exception." But medical groups like the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Physicians for Reproductive Health say the law unnecessarily interferes in the provision of medical care. Six-weeks is before most of my patients even know they are pregnant, Dr. Tiffany Hailstorks, an OBGYN in Georgia and Fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health, said in a statement. I fear for the well-being of the patients I serve because as we know full well, when abortion is not an option, women and babies have poorer health outcomes, including higher rates of maternal and infant mortality. Read more at The Daily Beast. Georgias Republican governor Brian Kemp has signed legislation to ban abortion once cardiac activity can be detected which can be as early as six weeks, before many women even realize they are pregnant. The signing caps weeks of tension and protests at the state capitol in Atlanta, and marks the beginning of what could be a lengthy and costly legal battle over the laws constitutionality. Kemp said he was signing the bill to ensure that all Georgians have the opportunity to live, grow, learn and prosper in our great state. Related: The anti-gay extremist behind America's fiercely strict abortion bans The legal showdown is exactly what supporters of the legislation are looking for. Anti-abortion activists and ultra-conservative lawmakers across the country, energized by the new conservative majority on the US supreme court that includes the Donald Trump appointees Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, are pushing ever stricter abortion bans. It also represents a further threat to the courts landmark 1973 Roe v Wade ruling, which legalized abortion nationwide until a fetus is developed enough to live outside a womans uterus. The bill is one of a growing number of similar pieces of legislation being pushed at state level, in what anti-abortion campaigners call heartbeat bills even though that is a medical inaccuracy as well as a politically inflammatory term in the reproductive rights debate. Sean Young, the legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia, said the ACLU would challenge Georgias new abortion restriction in court. Under 50 years of supreme court precedent, this abortion ban is clearly unconstitutional, Young said in a recent interview. Every federal court that has heard a challenge to a similar ban has ruled that its unconstitutional. Related: 'It's not a little child': gynecologists join the fight against six-week abortion bans Under current law, women in Georgia can seek an abortion during the first 20 weeks of a pregnancy. If it is not blocked in court, the new ban would take effect on 1 January next year. Story continues The legislation makes exceptions in the case of rape and incest if the woman files a police report first, and in order to save the life of the mother. It also would allow for abortions when a fetus is determined not to be viable because of serious medical issues. The bill also deals with alimony, child support and even income tax deductions for fetuses, declaring that the full value of a child begins at the point when a detectable human heartbeat exists. In fact, at six weeks, an embryo has not yet formed heart chambers, and is not considered a fetus until nine weeks into pregnancy. The Republican state representative Ed Setzler, the bills author, said in an interview after the bill passed the state House that it was a commonsense measure that seeks to balance the difficult circumstances women find themselves in with the basic right to life of a child. But the Democratic senator Jen Jordan disagreed that the legislation was balanced. Theres nothing balanced about it, its an all-out abortion ban, she said. Jordan said she was especially worried the new law would push obstetricians away from practicing in Georgia, worsening healthcare outcomes for women in a state that already has one of the worst maternal mortality rates in the country. Its about the unintended consequences, Jordan said. Theyre making policy choices that are going to end up causing women to die, and theyre preventable deaths. In the first few months of 2019, six-week abortion bans have been signed into law in four states: Mississippi, Kentucky, Ohio and now Georgia. Tennessee, Missouri, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, Louisiana and West Virginia are considering similar proposals. A bill in Alabama would outlaw almost all abortions at any stage of pregnancy. BERLIN (AP) Police in Germany have arrested eight people on suspicion of fund-raising for the Islamic State group. German news agency dpa reports that armed officers raided seven homes in the western city of Oberhausen early Wednesday. It quoted police saying the four men and four women arrested were aged between 19 and 58, were mostly related to each other and had German citizenship but Bosnian roots. BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany regrets statements made by the Iranian government and urges Tehran not to take any aggressive steps, a government spokesman said on Wednesday after Iran said it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear program under a 2015 deal. A German Foreign Ministry spokesman added that Berlin wants to keep the Iran nuclear deal, and said Berlin would fully stick to its commitments as long as Iran does the same. A year after Washington pulled out of the nuclear deal, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday unveiled measures that do not appear to violate its terms yet, but could do so in the future if Iran were to persist on the course he set out. (Writing by Paul Carrel; Editing by Madeline Chambers) WASHINGTON/TORONTO May 8 (Reuters) - General Motors Co moved to solve two major political headaches on Wednesday as U.S. President Donald Trump announced the Detroit automaker will sell its Lordstown, Ohio, plant to a company to build electric trucks, while GM said it would maintain some operations at a Canadian plant. The decision came after GM faced months of criticism over its plan announced in November to close five North American plants and cut 15,000 jobs. GM's decision to close the small-car Ohio assembly plant in a key state in the 2020 election had already become fodder for several Democratic presidential candidates. GM did not immediately comment but said it planned to make an announcement later in the day. Trump, in a tweet, said the sale of the Ohio plant to Workhorse Group Inc will require the approval of the United Auto Workers union. Trump said GM will invest $700 million in three other Ohio facilities and add 450 jobs. A person briefed on the matter said GM will make investments in its Toledo, Parma and Lorain operations. Workhorse shares jumped nearly 70 percent on Trump's tweet and were briefly halted. They were recently up about 40 percent. The UAW did not immediately comment. Separately, GM and the largest union representing Canada's auto workers have reached a deal to partly rescue an Ontario car-making plant slated to close this year by turning it into a parts-making facility, the automaker said in a statement. The transformation of GM's Oshawa site, which would also be used to conduct advanced vehicle testing, would save 300 jobs and have "the potential to grow and generate significant additional jobs in the coming years, as the business attracts new customers," the U.S. automaker said in a statement. Unifor, which had fiercely opposed the shutting of the plant's doors, had previously said the closure was contrary to a contract that stipulates there would be no plant closure (Reporting by David Shepardson in Washington, Tyler Choi in Toronto and Allison Lampert in Montreal Additional reporting by Ben Klayman in Detroit Editing by Matthew Lewis) Google this week is hosting its annual I/O developers conference in its hometown of Mountain View, California, where the tech giant is showing off new gadgets and software features. But in this post-Cambridge Analytica world, consumers and, increasingly, regulators want to know whether such new products could compromise consumers' private information. It's against that backdrop that Google CEO Sundar Pichai took the stage at I/O to announce, among other things, a series of privacy and data protection features coming to Google (GOOG, GOOGL) products now and in the year ahead. Google CEO Sundar Pichai speaks during the Google I/O keynote session at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California on May 7, 2019. (Photo by Josh Edelson / AFP) (Photo credit should read JOSH EDELSON/AFP/Getty Images) "We know our work on privacy and security is never done, and we want to do more to stay ahead of constantly evolving user expectations," Pichai said during his keynote. From the looks of it, Google is delivering on its promise in a number of ways. But it's important to understand that this proactive approach will also benefit the company by building user loyalty and currying favor with politicians who are looking toward crafting privacy and security legislation. Automatically delete your history During his remarks, Pichai covered major security and privacy updates coming to some of Google's biggest products including Chrome, Search, and Maps. In recent weeks the company added a new auto-delete feature to Google's Web Activity, the console you use to see the kind of information Google collects while you're browsing the web. The auto-delete function, which is available now, lets you limit how long Google can hold onto your data. If you don't want Google to have your data, you can manually delete it, or set it to be deleted after 3 months or 18 months from when it enters Google's system. Google uses this data to create a general user profile of you that it can then use to sell ads to advertisers, so if you don't want to be a part of that, you can simply delete your web activity. But it's important to note that Google also uses this data to provide you with relevant recommendations through its services. Story continues Pichai said this auto-delete feature will also be extended to location history data in the coming weeks. Incognito mode in Google Maps We've all used incognito mode in Google's Chrome browser to skirt paywalls and other reasons. It's proven to be such a helpful tool that Google also expanded the feature to YouTube, so no one will know you secretly listen to old Milli Vanilli songs on repeat at the office. Google will soon let you access all of your data and security settings from one menu. (Image: Google) On Tuesday, Pichai announced that incognito mode would also be coming to Google Maps. When enabled, none of the information you search for, or the locations you've visited, will be saved on Google's server. The data can still be viewed by, for example, your company's IT department, since they act as an intermediary that can see your data pass through your company's server. It's a helpful move, especially if you're wary of a major conglomerate having all of your travel information on hand. On the flip side it will also benefit those who prefer stepping out on their significant others. Which, I guess is a good thing for them? Android Q is putting privacy front and center Google also unveiled a set of Android Q privacy features that will affect some of the 2.5 billion active Android devices currently in consumers' hands. The biggest step forward is that there will be a new dedicated Privacy tab in the Android Settings menu. From here you can control your Web Activity data, Location information, and Ad Settings. This is a major change, as you previously had to access these menus via your online Google profile. This would enable you to do it from directly within your device's settings. Android Q will also include new warnings about when apps are collecting your location data as they run in the background. That's something that both drains users' phone batteries, and surreptitiously tracks their location information. You'll also be able to force apps to stop tracking your location one hour after using them, whenever you close the apps, or not let them track you at all. Google's moves are certainly helpful, and making privacy settings more openly available to users is a big step forward for the company. But while Google won't be able to collect as much data about you if you use its new settings, that doesn't mean you'll never see online ads again. The company will still sell ads they just won't be as relevant to your interests. For some people that trade-off will be worth it. For others, it won't. Google is also making these moves as privacy has become more of a hot-button issue in Silicon Valley following Facebook's myriad security and privacy problems, as well as Google's own Google Plus issues that ended with the social network folding. During those incidents user data was left exposed due to a bug, which allowed third-party apps to see users' gender, age, name and email address. Google, however, said that no developers took advantage of the bug. U.S. lawmakers are increasingly considering passing some form of privacy and data protection law, and more countries around the world are looking toward the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as a model for such laws. For companies like Google, getting ahead of any U.S. regulations allows them to show that they've been working to improve user security, and potentially let them have a greater say in how such legislation comes together. So while these improvements are helpful for users, they're just as helpful for Google. More from Dan: Email Daniel Howley at dhowley@oath.com; follow him on Twitter at@DanielHowley. Follow Yahoo Finance on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, andLinkedIn.finance.yahoo.com/ Amid fears a trade agreement with China is in jeopardy, President Trump says the Chinese Vice Premier is coming to the United States to make a deal. ....Guess what, thats not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal. Well see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers...great for U.S., not good for China! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Another round of negotiations is slated to begin in Washington on Thursday. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters the administration has received indication that the Chinese delegation wants to make a deal, though she did not elaborate on what new information the administration may have received. Despite the show of optimism from the president, tariffs are set to increase on Friday. Shortly after Trump tweeted on Wednesday morning, the United States Trade Representative moved to make the tariff hike official. Ambassador Robert Lighthizers office filed a notice with the Federal Register indicating tariffs on Chinese goods would increase from 10% to 25%. In the most recent negotiations, China has chosen to retreat from specific commitments agreed to in earlier rounds. In light of the lack of progress in discussions with China, the President has directed the Trade Representative to increase the rate of additional duty to 25 percent, the notice reads. China has threatened to take necessary countermeasures if the United States follows through on its tariff threat. Sen. John Thune (R-SD) told Yahoo Finance its a high-stakes...poker match. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., speaks during a media availability after their policy luncheon on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, May 7, 2019 in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) The president, I think, is trying to get Chinas attention and get them back to the table, said Thune. He believes our economy is strong and he has leverage and hes trying to make the most out of this opportunity to get a deal done with China. Story continues Many Republican senators have expressed concerns that trade tensions are hurting farmers in their states. While they may commend the presidents desire to crack down on Chinas unfair trade practices, they worry American farmers will pay the price as trade disputes drag on. Thune said farmers need to hear some good news. The ag economy is in the tank right now and every bit of bad news just piles on, said Thune. China not a fair player But Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) brushed off concerns that higher tariffs will cost American consumers and businesses. If you look at the cost of whats happening to our companies when all the technology is being stolen add that cost in. Scott said he is not confident negotiators will get talks back on track this week. I dont believe China is a fair player, Scott said. I mean, think about this would you do a deal with somebody that constantly violated the law? No, you wouldnt. Thats what they do. They steal our technology. In the end, if there is no trade deal with China, Scott said the tariffs on Chinese goods would still absolutely be worth it. Weve got to do everything we can to build up the American economy and stop sitting here and trying to build up the Chinese economy, he said. We have Peace Corps volunteers in China. What are we doing? Theyre our competition. Theyre competing with us for jobs. Theyre competing with our companies, said Scott. Though he praised the presidents willingness to take on China, Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) told Yahoo Finance he doesnt think Trump has a strategy and China should be addressed with an international coalition. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) told Yahoo Finance hes hopeful negotiations will lead to significant progress to expand access to Chinese markets. He stopped short of criticizing the presidents plan to raise tariffs. There are aspects of trade policy in the Trump administration with which I disagree, but I do think the president has been far more vigorous than President Obama was in terms of pressing our trading partners especially China to expand access to their markets, said Cruz. Jessica Smith is a reporter for Yahoo Finance based in Washington, D.C. Follow her on Twitter at @JessicaASmith8. Read more: GOP senators worry metal tariffs could derail Trump's new NAFTA U.S. Chamber: Fixing infrastructure could 'turbo-charge' economy Trump's critics say revised NAFTA has 'minimal projected gains' GUATEMALA CITY (AP) Prosecutors said Wednesday they have opened an investigation into a Supreme Court judge who ordered the detention of former chief prosecutor and presidential candidate Thelma Aldana, who gained international renown for pressing high-profile graft cases against Guatemala's wealthy and powerful. A spokeswoman, Julia Barrera, said the probe of Judge Victor Manuel Cruz Rivera involves purported acceptance of bribes. The announcement followed a report from the newspaper El Periodico that Cruz allegedly received millions in return for issuing the detention order for Aldana on March 18. He hasn't commented on that report. Supreme Court spokesman Mario Siecavizza said the court did not have knowledge of the case. "Criminal responsibility is personal, and it will be the judge who must resolve his situation," Siecavizza said. The judge's secretary, Karla Douma, said he could not immediately comment. Cruz also has received security protection from a government agency that normally provides exclusive protection to the president and his family, including bodyguards and an armored vehicle, El Periodico said. The newspaper said he had been receiving that benefit since a week after ordering Aldana's arrest. The detention order was never executed as Aldana was in El Salvador at the time. She has not returned to Guatemala. Aldana and a U.N.-supported anti-corruption commission sought, unsuccessfully, to prosecute current President Jimmy Morales, but lawmakers have not approved measures to withdraw the immunity he enjoys as sitting president. He denies wrongdoing. Rotman Perez, Aldana's lawyer, said the investigation of Cruz offers further reason to doubt his impartiality and argued that the judge should be removed from his client's case. "We hope this is not simply the beginning of an investigation due to social pressure, but rather a diligent investigation and not just a passive attitude," Perez said. Story continues Cruz has heard other high-profile cases including an investigation of former Judge Blanca Stalling on accusations of influence-trafficking and a recent case involving alleged bribes paid by businesspeople to lawmakers during the administration of ex-President Otto Perez Molina. Perez Molina, who is behind bars on corruption charges, was put there in part by Aldana, whose office was instrumental in bringing the case against the then-president in tandem with a U.N.-sponsored anti-graft commission. He denies the charges. Two other ex-presidents have also been jailed on corruption allegations. The 63-year-old Aldana launched a political career after leaving her prosecutor post last year. Around the time she became a presidential candidate, a group of friends and relatives of people Aldana put behind bars filed a complaint against her over a purported hiring irregularity. The same day her candidacy was formally registered, Cruz issued the detention order for Aldana. She has said she will not return to El Salvador until she feels it is safe. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Hellenic Exchanges - Athens Stock Exchange SA (ATH:EXAE) shareholders should be happy to see the share price up 13% in the last quarter. It's not great that the stock is down 47% over the last five years. But the market returned an even less impressive return of 77%. See our latest analysis for Hellenic Exchanges - Athens Stock Exchange To quote Buffett, 'Ships will sail around the world but the Flat Earth Society will flourish. There will continue to be wide discrepancies between price and value in the marketplace...' One imperfect but simple way to consider how the market perception of a company has shifted is to compare the change in the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price movement. Looking back five years, both Hellenic Exchanges - Athens Stock Exchange's share price and EPS declined; the latter at a rate of 37% per year. The share price decline of 12% per year isn't as bad as the EPS decline. So investors might expect EPS to bounce back -- or they may have previously foreseen the EPS decline. The high P/E ratio of 86.33 suggests that shareholders believe earnings will grow in the years ahead. You can see how EPS has changed over time in the image below (click on the chart to see the exact values). ATSE:EXAE Past and Future Earnings, May 8th 2019 It might be well worthwhile taking a look at our free report on Hellenic Exchanges - Athens Stock Exchange's earnings, revenue and cash flow. What About Dividends? It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR incorporates the value of any spin-offs or discounted capital raisings, along with any dividends, based on the assumption that the dividends are reinvested. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. In the case of Hellenic Exchanges - Athens Stock Exchange, it has a TSR of -31% for the last 5 years. That exceeds its share price return that we previously mentioned. This is largely a result of its dividend payments! Story continues A Different Perspective We regret to report that Hellenic Exchanges - Athens Stock Exchange shareholders are down 12% for the year (even including dividends). Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 6.5%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 7.1% per year over five years. We realise that Buffett has said investors should 'buy when there is blood on the streets', but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality businesses. Before forming an opinion on Hellenic Exchanges - Athens Stock Exchange you might want to consider the cold hard cash it pays as a dividend. This free chart tracks its dividend over time. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies we expect will grow earnings. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on GR exchanges. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. GENEVA, May 8 (Reuters) - A lack of health funding in Gaza means 1,700 people shot by Israeli security forces may have to have amputations in the next two years, Jamie McGoldrick, the U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for occupied Palestinian territory, told reporters on Wednesday. McGoldrick said 29,000 Palestinians had been wounded in protests in the past year, and 7,000 of them had gunshot wounds, mostly in the lower legs. "You've got 1,700 people who are in need of serious, complicated surgeries for them to be able to walk again," McGoldrick said. "These are people who have been shot during the demonstrations and who are in need of rehabilitation, and very, very serious and complex bone reconstruction surgery over a two year period before they start to rehabilitate themselves." Without those procedures, all these people are at risk of needing an amputation, he said. The U.N. is seeking $20 million to fill the gap in health spending. A lack of funding to the World Food Programme and UNRWA, the U.N. humanitarian agency that supports Palestinians displaced by the 1948 war of Israel's founding, also meant there could be an interruption of food supplies for 1 million people. "If that stops, there is no alternative for people to bring food in from any other sources, because they don't have purchasing power," McGoldrick said. WFP spokesman Herve Verhoosel said a severe lack of funds meant WFP had cut aid for 193,000 people this year in the West Bank and Gaza, with 27,000 getting nothing and the rest getting only $8 per month instead of the usual $10. Some 2 million Palestinians live in Gaza, the economy of which has suffered years of Israeli and Egyptian blockades as well as recent foreign aid cuts and sanctions by the Palestinian Authority, Hamas' West Bank-based rival. People's prospects were "precarious," McGoldrick said. Gaza families averaged $4,000 of debt, while salaries averaged $400 per month, but 54 percent of the population was unemployed. Story continues The health system was impoverished, with unpaid salaries and dilapidated equipment, and many medical professionals had left if they could find opportunities elsewhere. One teaching hospital was now only teaching trauma medicine, McGoldrick said, but the doctors on the ground did not have the technical ability to carry out the treatment required for the people at risk of amputation. There have already been 120 amputations, 20 of them in children, in the past year, he said. (Reporting by Tom Miles; Editing by Hugh Lawson) GENEVA (Reuters) - A lack of health funding in Gaza means 1,700 people shot by Israeli security forces may have to have amputations in the next two years, Jamie McGoldrick, the U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for occupied Palestinian territory, told reporters on Wednesday. McGoldrick said 29,000 Palestinians had been wounded in protests in the past year, and 7,000 of them had gunshot wounds, mostly in the lower legs. "You've got 1,700 people who are in need of serious, complicated surgeries for them to be able to walk again," McGoldrick said. "These are people who have been shot during the demonstrations and who are in need of rehabilitation, and very, very serious and complex bone reconstruction surgery over a two year period before they start to rehabilitate themselves." Without those procedures, all these people are at risk of needing an amputation, he said. The U.N. is seeking $20 million to fill the gap in health spending. A lack of funding to the World Food Program and UNRWA, the U.N. humanitarian agency that supports Palestinians displaced by the 1948 war of Israel's founding, also meant there could be an interruption of food supplies for 1 million people. "If that stops, there is no alternative for people to bring food in from any other sources, because they don't have purchasing power," McGoldrick said. WFP spokesman Herve Verhoosel said a severe lack of funds meant WFP had cut aid for 193,000 people this year in the West Bank and Gaza, with 27,000 getting nothing and the rest getting only $8 per month instead of the usual $10. Some 2 million Palestinians live in Gaza, the economy of which has suffered years of Israeli and Egyptian blockades as well as recent foreign aid cuts and sanctions by the Palestinian Authority, Hamas' West Bank-based rival. People's prospects were "precarious", McGoldrick said. Gaza families averaged $4,000 of debt, while salaries averaged $400 per month, but 54 percent of the population was unemployed. The health system was impoverished, with unpaid salaries and dilapidated equipment, and many medical professionals had left if they could find opportunities elsewhere. One teaching hospital was now only teaching trauma medicine, McGoldrick said, but the doctors on the ground did not have the technical ability to carry out the treatment required for the people at risk of amputation. There have already been 120 amputations, 20 of them in children, in the past year, he said. (Reporting by Tom Miles; Editing by Hugh Lawson) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! This article is for investors who would like to improve their understanding of price to earnings ratios (P/E ratios). To keep it practical, we'll show how Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group Limited's (HKG:7) P/E ratio could help you assess the value on offer. Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group has a P/E ratio of 17.88, based on the last twelve months. That means that at current prices, buyers pay HK$17.88 for every HK$1 in trailing yearly profits. Check out our latest analysis for Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group How Do I Calculate A Price To Earnings Ratio? The formula for price to earnings is: Price to Earnings Ratio = Price per Share Earnings per Share (EPS) Or for Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group: P/E of 17.88 = HK$0.92 HK$0.051 (Based on the year to December 2018.) Is A High P/E Ratio Good? A higher P/E ratio means that investors are paying a higher price for each HK$1 of company earnings. All else being equal, it's better to pay a low price -- but as Warren Buffett said, 'It's far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.' How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios Earnings growth rates have a big influence on P/E ratios. If earnings are growing quickly, then the 'E' in the equation will increase faster than it would otherwise. That means unless the share price increases, the P/E will reduce in a few years. A lower P/E should indicate the stock is cheap relative to others -- and that may attract buyers. Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group's earnings made like a rocket, taking off 109% last year. How Does Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group's P/E Ratio Compare To Its Peers? The P/E ratio essentially measures market expectations of a company. The image below shows that Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group has a higher P/E than the average (12.9) P/E for companies in the trade distributors industry. Story continues SEHK:7 Price Estimation Relative to Market, May 8th 2019 Its relatively high P/E ratio indicates that Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group shareholders think it will perform better than other companies in its industry classification. Shareholders are clearly optimistic, but the future is always uncertain. So further research is always essential. I often monitor director buying and selling. Don't Forget: The P/E Does Not Account For Debt or Bank Deposits One drawback of using a P/E ratio is that it considers market capitalization, but not the balance sheet. So it won't reflect the advantage of cash, or disadvantage of debt. Hypothetically, a company could reduce its future P/E ratio by spending its cash (or taking on debt) to achieve higher earnings. Spending on growth might be good or bad a few years later, but the point is that the P/E ratio does not account for the option (or lack thereof). So What Does Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group's Balance Sheet Tell Us? Net debt totals 14% of Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group's market cap. This could bring some additional risk, and reduce the number of investment options for management; worth remembering if you compare its P/E to businesses without debt. The Bottom Line On Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group's P/E Ratio Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group's P/E is 17.9 which is above average (11.8) in the HK market. While the company does use modest debt, its recent earnings growth is superb. So on this analysis a high P/E ratio seems reasonable. Investors should be looking to buy stocks that the market is wrong about. People often underestimate remarkable growth -- so investors can make money when fast growth is not fully appreciated. Although we don't have analyst forecasts, you could get a better understanding of its growth by checking out this more detailed historical graph of earnings, revenue and cash flow. But note: Hong Kong Finance Investment Holding Group may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with strong recent earnings growth (and a P/E ratio below 20). We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. By James Pomfret HONG KONG (Reuters) - A proposed new extradition law in Hong Kong could extend China's "coercive reach" into the financial hub and create serious risks for U.S. national security and economic interests there, a U.S. congressional commission said. Various groups in Hong Kong, including democracy activists, have objected to the proposed legislation, which would allow case-by-case extraditions from the city to countries without formal extradition agreements, including mainland China. "The extradition bill could pose significant risks to U.S. national security and economic interests in the territory," the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission said in a report released on Wednesday. The bipartisan commission monitors the security implications of U.S.-China relations. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked about the U.S. report, said at a daily briefing in Beijing that Hong Kong affairs were an internal matter for China, and China resolutely opposed foreign interference. The commission said the law could provide grounds for the United States to "re-examine important elements of its current relationship with Hong Kong, as outlined in the U.S.-Hong Kong Policy Act". The 1992 U.S.-Hong Kong policy act allows the United States to engage with Hong Kong as a non-sovereign entity distinct from China on matters of trade and economics. Those areas of special treatment for Hong Kong include visas, law enforcement including extraditions, and investment. The U.S. commission did not specifically mention what areas might be re-examined, nor did it say if the policy act itself might be jeopardised. "One major concern is that the bill could allow Beijing to pressure the Hong Kong government to extradite U.S. citizens under false pretences," it said. "This could affect the estimated 85,000 U.S. citizens and over 1,300 U.S. firms in Hong Kong - about 300 of which base their Asia regional operations in the territory." Story continues GOODBYE SAILOR? Taiwan authorities have said the extradition law could undermine Hong Kong's legal safeguards, and pose a risk to Taiwan citizens who might find themselves extradited to mainland China from Hong Kong. The U.S. commission also noted that the U.S. navy might have to stop visits to Hong Kong. "With the heightened potential risks of extradition for U.S. Navy personnel in the territory if detained or arrested during routine port calls, the United States could consider alternative ports for rest and replenishment in the region." Besides opposition from legal, human rights and journalist groups, the bill has also drawn a rare backlash from the foreign business community, as well as Hong Kong's usually pro-Beijing business sector, the commission said. Despite attempts to thwart the bill by Hong Kong's pro-democracy legislators, the city's largely pro-Beijing legislature is expected to adopt it in the coming months. Under the proposed law, every extradition request would have to be signed off by Hong Kong's leader, and be approved by a Hong Kong court, to safeguard individual rights. When asked, however, whether Hong Kong could realistically reject an extradition request from China, Hong Kong's justice and security secretaries skirted the question in a news conference on Tuesday. They also sidestepped questions on China's legal system and whether activists might be at risk of being extradited on national security grounds but re-iterated that no one would be sent off for political offences, nor to face a death sentence. Despite such reassurances, more than 100,000 people recently marched against the extradition laws in one of the biggest protests in the former British colony for years. (Reporting by James Pomfret, additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in BEIJING; Editing by Robert Birsel) Win McNamee/Getty The House Judiciary Committee moved Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for ignoring a subpoena, confirming the resolution by a 24 to 16 vote on party lines. The matter now goes to the full House. Barr is just the second Cabinet member in U.S. history to face that punishment. The last one to be held in contempt of Congress was Eric Holder in 2012, when he failed to turn over documents related to the Fast & Furious weapons-trafficking scandal. An inspector general later cleared Holder of any wrongdoing. Barr was held in contempt because he failed to issue the judiciary committee the full, un-redacted Mueller report. The Justice Department and the committee had attempted to negotiate a resolution about if and how an unredacted report would make its way to Congress but no deal appears imminent. If anything, talks appear to have completely broken down. The Justice Department declared on Wednesday morning that the president had now "asserted executive privilege over the entirety" of the Mueller report. We did not relish doing this but we had no choice. Attorney General Barr proved himself to be a personal attorney to President Trump rather than attorney general of U.S., House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said Wednesday following the markup session. We cannot have a government where all the information is held in the executive branch. Its an attack on the ability of the American people. It is an attack on the essence of our democracy. There can be no higher stakes than this attempt to arrogate all power to the executive branch away from Congress and the American people, Nadler said. We are now in a constitutional crisis. The Justice Department said that Barr could not comply with the Judiciary Committees subpoena because doing so would mean breaking the law. A spokesperson said that the department had engaged with the committee in good faith in an effort to accommodate its stated interest in these materials and accused House Democrats of ignoring those efforts. Story continues Unfortunately, rather than allowing negotiations to continue, Chairman Nadler short-circuited these efforts by proceeding with a politically motivated and unnecessary contempt vote, DOJ spokesperson Kerri Kupec said in a statement. The markup for a contempt vote came after weeks of back-and-forth talks between House Judiciary Democrats and the Department of Justice over terms for lawmakers to review Special Counsel Robert Muellers report with fewer redactions and with access to the underlying evidence he collected. The committee issued a subpoena to access those materials but Barr has fought them. This is information we are legally entitled to receive and we are constitutionally obligated to review. Nadler said in the contempt vote markup. I would remind the Members that the Mueller report is no ordinary, run of the mill documentit details significant misconduct involving the President, including his campaigns willingness and eagerness to accept help from a hostile foreign government. In addition to the back and forth over subpoenaed material, the two sides are also in disagreement over whether the attorney general should testify before the committee. Barr has refused to do so after the Department of Justice said House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadlers demands for staff attorneys to question the attorney general about his handling of the Mueller report were unprecedented and unnecessary. Nadler had previously warned that the committee would seek to hold Barr in contempt if he did not appear. If good-faith negotiations dont result in a pledge of compliance... the next step is seeking a contempt citation against the attorney general, Nadler said last week, adding that Barr was trying to blackmail the committee into not following the most effective means of eliciting the information we need... He is terrified of having to face a skilled attorney." The committee has also said it wants to hear Mueller testify. The Daily Beast reported this week that he was willing to appear but that DOJ was reluctant to set a date. Nadler said the committee would like to hear from the special counsel on May 15. Whether Mueller ends up coming remains unclear. But experts say that the breakdown in conversations between the executive and legislative branch had already reached remarkable levels. There is always some back and forth and negotiation over whether and when someone testifies, said Elliot Williams, a former deputy assistant attorney general. The two sides work out things like length of testimony, the subject matter of the hearing as well as other things. But usually they always come to an agreement. Read more at The Daily Beast. By Evan Duggan and Karen Freifeld VANCOUVER/NEW YORK, May 8 (Reuters) - Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou is set to appear in a Canadian court on Wednesday to begin what is expected to be a long legal battle against the United States' request that she be extradited to face fraud charges. The largely procedural hearing is the latest development in a case that has escalated tensions between China and both the United States and Canada. Meng, 47, the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's billionaire founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at Vancouver's airport in December on a U.S. warrant and is fighting extradition on fraud charges that she misled global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. At Wednesday's 10 a.m. (1700 GMT) hearing before Justice Heather Holmes of the British Columbia Supreme Court, Meng's lawyers are set to discuss motions they plan to bring, according to Daniel Coles, a lawyer who acted on behalf of media companies to oppose an initial publication ban on the case. Nothing substantive is expected to be decided, Coles said. But the hearing could indicate how the legal battle will unfold, which some lawyers expect to take more than two years. Meng's case has attracted global attention and sparked a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Ottawa. China has repeatedly demanded Meng's release. In recent weeks, China has upped the pressure on Canada and halted Canadian canola imports and suspended the permits of two major pork producers. Chinese police also detained two Canadian citizens after Meng's arrest. Meanwhile, a second Huawei Canada executive has the left the company, Reuters reported on Tuesday. Coles said he expects pre-hearing motions relating to disclosure of documents and perhaps the seizure of Meng's electronic devices, including a computer, iPad and cellphones, when she was detained on Dec. 1. Lawyers for Meng and spokesmen for the U.S. Department of Justice and Huawei all declined to comment ahead of the hearing. Story continues "It's going to be the start of a long series of procedural wrangling," said Vancouver lawyer Gary Botting, who said he was initially consulted by the Meng defense team but is no longer involved in the case. "It will go on for at least two years," he said, and with appeals could extend to a decade. Botting said Meng's lawyers would want more disclosure about the case, including what happened when Meng was arrested at Vancouver airport on Dec. 1 and whether the authorities breached her rights when she was detained when she landed there en route to Mexico. Meng, who was released from jail in December on $7.5 million bail and must wear a GPS tracker, an ankle bracelet and pay for security guards, has been living in a Vancouver home valued at C$5.6 million in 2017. (Reporting by Evan Duggan in Vancouver and Karen Frefield in New York; additional reporting by David Ljunggren in Ottawa Writing by Denny Thomas Editing by Bill Rigby) Vancouver (AFP) - A senior Chinese telecom executive whose Vancouver arrest on a US warrant triggered a diplomatic row between Ottawa and Beijing was to appear in court Wednesday to fight for her release. Canada's justice department said the court will set the next key dates in an extradition process -- including the start of the formal hearing for Meng Wanzhou, which could take months or even years. Meng herself is expected to make only a brief appearance before the judge to deal with matters described by officials as "administrative in nature." Her lawyers are also likely to renew their objections to her arrest in December while seeking an easing of her bail conditions. Relations between Ottawa and Beijing were thrown into crisis by the arrest of Meng, the chief financial officer of telecom giant Huawei and possible heir to her father's company. Washington wants to put Meng on trial on fraud charges for allegedly violating Iran sanctions and lying about it to US banks, but the case has become a major irritant for Ottawa. Following her arrest, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and Canadian businessman Michael Spavor in what observers saw as retaliation. China later announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets and alleged Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Two other Canadians convicted of drug trafficking, meanwhile, were sentenced to death. And Beijing recently blocked Canadian shipments of canola and pork worth billions of dollars. Canada has accused Beijing of arbitrarily detaining both Kovrig and Spavor, and called the death penalties for Canadians Fen Wei and Robert Schellenberg "cruel and inhumane." It has also rallied the support of a dozen countries, including Britain, France, Germany and the US, as well as the EU, NATO and the G7, in its diplomatic feud with China. - Caught between US, China - Most recently, Ottawa has pressed Washington -- which is threatening a trade war with Beijing -- to step up its pressure on behalf of the detained Canadians. Story continues "Canadian lives are at stake," an unnamed Canadian official stressed to broadcaster CTV. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has insisted that Meng's case would be dealt with by the courts, and not politicized. He sacked his ambassador to China in January for suggesting that Meng had a "strong case" against extradition, citing remarks by US President Donald Trump that he might seek to have the charges against Meng dropped in exchange for trade concessions from China. Meng was released on bail mid-December in Vancouver, where she owns two residences, on a Can$10 million bond. She has also been ordered to wear an electronic anklet and hand over her passports. She is now suing the Canadian government, alleging false imprisonment and a breach of her rights. In court documents, Meng alleges that border officials and federal police delayed executing the US warrant by three hours during her stopover at the Vancouver airport in order to question her and search her luggage and electronic devices, hoping to glean evidence to be used against her at trial. Huawei is also facing separate US charges for allegedly stealing American technology, and in recent months has faced a US campaign to blacklist it over espionage fears. Canada has said it will decide before a federal election in October whether or not to join the US and other Five Eyes intelligence partners in banning Huawei from Canada's fifth generation wireless networks. Vancouver (AFP) - A top Chinese telecom executive whose arrest in Canada on a US warrant triggered a bitter diplomatic row vowed Wednesday to vigorously fight extradition to the US. Meng Wanzhou, 47, who faces charges related to Iran sanctions violations, was appearing at a Vancouver courthouse to set a timetable for her upcoming extradition hearing. "The criminal case against Miss Meng is based on allegations that are simply untrue," her spokesman Benjamin Howes said outside, telling reporters she would apply for a stay of the proceedings. He alleged that "political factors" were behind her arrest and said her rights had been violated. Meng's appearance was initially intended to be brief but the defense spent several hours reprising their objections to her December arrest in Vancouver. Prosecutors, meanwhile, indicated that they wanted to fast-track the case. Haggling over the disclosure of evidence -- with the defense lamenting heavy redactions of 1,742 pages of documents released so far -- risks drawing out the process. The next court date in the process, which could last years, was set for September 23, while the formal extradition hearings are expected to begin in January. Relations between Ottawa and Beijing were thrown into crisis by the arrest of Meng, the chief financial officer of telecom giant Huawei and possible heir to her father's company. Washington wants to put Meng on trial on fraud charges for allegedly violating Iran sanctions and lying about it to US banks, but the case has become a major irritant for Ottawa. After her arrest, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor in what observers saw as retaliation. China later announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets and alleged that Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Two other Canadians convicted of drug trafficking, meanwhile, were sentenced to death. And Beijing recently blocked Canadian shipments of canola and pork worth billions of dollars. Story continues Canada has accused Beijing of arbitrarily detaining both Kovrig and Spavor, and called the death penalties for Canadians Fen Wei and Robert Schellenberg "cruel and inhumane." It has also rallied the support of a dozen countries, including Britain, France, Germany and the US, as well as the EU, NATO and the G7, in its diplomatic feud with China. - Caught between US, China - Most recently, Ottawa has pressed Washington -- which is threatening a trade war with Beijing -- to step up its pressure on behalf of the detained Canadians. "Canadian lives are at stake," an unnamed Canadian official told broadcaster CTV. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has insisted that Meng's case would be dealt with by the courts, and not politicized. He sacked his ambassador to China in January for suggesting that Meng had a "strong case" against extradition, citing remarks by US President Donald Trump that he might seek to have the charges against Meng dropped in exchange for trade concessions from China. On Wednesday, Meng's lawyers raised Trump's comments as proof that the case was politically motivated, describing them as "intimidating and corrosive to the rule of law." They also refuted the principal accusation that Meng misrepresented to US banks Huawei's business dealings in Iran. Meng was released on bail in mid-December in Vancouver, where she owns two residences, on a Can$10 million bond. She has also been ordered to wear an electronic anklet and hand over her passports. She is suing the Canadian government, alleging false imprisonment and other rights breaches. Huawei is also facing separate US charges for allegedly stealing American technology, and in recent months has faced a US campaign to blacklist it over espionage fears. SAN FRANCISCO (AP) Federal immigration agents on Tuesday arrested a suspected drunken driver who was free on bail after being charged with plowing into a Northern California trailer home and killing three sleeping family members. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Paul Prince said Ismael Huazo-Jardinez, 33, is suspected of living in the country illegally. Prince said U.S. Border Patrol agents previously arrested Huazo-Jardinez in Arizona in 2011 and he voluntarily agreed to return to his native Mexico. Prince said immigrations officials don't know when Huazo-Jardinez re-entered the United States and declined to say where agents arrested him Tuesday. Huazo-Jardinez was first arrested Saturday night in the rural community of Knights Landing outside of Sacramento. The California Highway Patrol said Huazo-Jardinez was intoxicated and speeding when the truck he was driving missed a sharp curve and slammed into the Pacheco family's live-in trailer. The accident killed Jose Pacheco, 38, Anna Pacheco, 34, and their son Angel Pacheco, 10. The Pachecos' 11-year-old daughter remains in critical condition. Huazo-Jardinez was released from the Sutter County Jail on $300,000 bail Sunday after a judge refused CHP's request for a $1 million bail, the Sacramento Bee reported . Jail records show Huazo-Jardinez listing a Yuba City address as his residence. Prince said Huazo-Jardinez will remain in federal custody until his immigration status is determined. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Many investors are still learning about the various metrics that can be useful when analysing a stock. This article is for those who would like to learn about Return On Equity (ROE). By way of learning-by-doing, we'll look at ROE to gain a better understanding of SPT Energy Group Inc. (HKG:1251). Over the last twelve months SPT Energy Group has recorded a ROE of 6.1%. That means that for every HK$1 worth of shareholders' equity, it generated HK$0.061 in profit. View our latest analysis for SPT Energy Group How Do You Calculate Return On Equity? The formula for return on equity is: Return on Equity = Net Profit Shareholders' Equity Or for SPT Energy Group: 6.1% = CN82m CN1.3b (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2018.) It's easy to understand the 'net profit' part of that equation, but 'shareholders' equity' requires further explanation. It is all the money paid into the company from shareholders, plus any earnings retained. You can calculate shareholders' equity by subtracting the company's total liabilities from its total assets. What Does ROE Signify? ROE measures a company's profitability against the profit it retains, and any outside investments. The 'return' is the yearly profit. That means that the higher the ROE, the more profitable the company is. So, as a general rule, a high ROE is a good thing. Clearly, then, one can use ROE to compare different companies. Does SPT Energy Group Have A Good Return On Equity? Arguably the easiest way to assess company's ROE is to compare it with the average in its industry. Importantly, this is far from a perfect measure, because companies differ significantly within the same industry classification. As is clear from the image below, SPT Energy Group has a better ROE than the average (3.9%) in the Energy Services industry. Story continues SEHK:1251 Past Revenue and Net Income, May 8th 2019 That's what I like to see. In my book, a high ROE almost always warrants a closer look. One data point to check is if insiders have bought shares recently. How Does Debt Impact Return On Equity? Most companies need money -- from somewhere -- to grow their profits. That cash can come from retained earnings, issuing new shares (equity), or debt. In the first and second cases, the ROE will reflect this use of cash for investment in the business. In the latter case, the use of debt will improve the returns, but will not change the equity. In this manner the use of debt will boost ROE, even though the core economics of the business stay the same. SPT Energy Group's Debt And Its 6.1% ROE While SPT Energy Group does have some debt, with debt to equity of just 0.24, we wouldn't say debt is excessive. Its ROE isn't particularly impressive, but the debt levels are quite modest, so the business probably has some real potential. Judicious use of debt to improve returns can certainly be a good thing, although it does elevate risk slightly and reduce future optionality. In Summary Return on equity is one way we can compare the business quality of different companies. In my book the highest quality companies have high return on equity, despite low debt. If two companies have around the same level of debt to equity, and one has a higher ROE, I'd generally prefer the one with higher ROE. But when a business is high quality, the market often bids it up to a price that reflects this. It is important to consider other factors, such as future profit growth -- and how much investment is required going forward. So you might want to take a peek at this data-rich interactive graph of forecasts for the company. But note: SPT Energy Group may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren has consistently rolled out a number of progressive policy platforms in recent weeks. On Wednesday, the 2020 hopeful introduced a $100 billion plan to tackle the deadly opioid epidemic. The proposal is an updated version of the CARE Act that Warren and Marylands Democratic Rep. Elijah Cummings introduced in Congress last year, and provides a 10-year plan to fund treatment, support, and research for opioid addiction. The proposal will focus on areas nationwide that are most impacted by the epidemic by providing support to state and nonprofit recovery efforts. Too many folks in Washington care more about protecting the wealthy from paying their fair share than they do about solving these kinds of urgent national problems, Warren wrote in a Medium post on Wednesday. I want to change that. Warren said her previously proposed 2% tax on wealthy Americans who are worth $50 million or more would help fund the CARE Act, which also addresses disparities in access to care for low income communities and communities of color. She has said the tax would raise $2.75 trillion over a decade, which Warren has proposed to fund her other initiatives, like free college tuition and free universal child care. Nancy Nielsen, the senior associate dean for health policy in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at University of Buffalo told Fortune the proposal will likely face pushback on this front. The next challenge is garnering support in Congress. Even so, more people are realizing how widespread this issue is. The opioid crisis has touched virtually every family in one way or another in the country, Nielsen said, adding that Warrens approach is better than some previous proposals, and addresses opioid addiction as a massive public health problem. Warren further pointed to companies and families, like the Sackler family, who have profited from fueling addiction. Story continues The ongoing opioid crisis is about health care. But its about more than that, Warren wrote. Purdue Pharma, owned by the Sacklers, along with eight members of the family, were named as defendants in several lawsuits over deaths caused by opioid abuse. The family also opened a number of for-profit recovery centers for the treatment of opioid addiction, profiting both from addiction and the treatment of it. Warrens 2018 Senate re-election campaign accepted $2,500 in donations from Beverly Sackler, whose late husband ran Purdue Pharma. An aide of the Senator said Tuesday that Warren would donate the money to charity. More than 130 people die each day in the United States after overdosing on opioids, including prescription pain medications, heroin, and fentanyl. More than 47,000 Americans died from opioid overdoses in 2017, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The CARE Act, modeled after the Ryan White CARE Act introduced in the 90s to improve access to care for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS, outlines an extensive funding plan. States, territories and tribal governments would receive $4 billion in general funding. Another $2.7 billion would be allocated to cities and counties that have been hit hardest by opioid addiction, with $1.4 billion going to areas with the highest overdose rates. Research, public health monitoring, and training would receive $1.7 billion in funding. Public and nonprofit support centers would receive $1.1 billion to expand services for treatment, recovery, and harm reduction, and $500 million would be allocated toward expanding access to naloxone, commonly used to counter the effects of an opioid overdose. The proposal would also ensure access to mental health services to people in needservices that are too often severely underfunded, as both mental illness and addiction are criminalized. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2 million people with mental illness are booked into jails every year, and at least 83% of people in jail who struggle with mental illness did not receive the help they needed. Moving away from criminalization while building new treatment infrastructure thats grounded in harm reduction must be central to any plan moving forward, Zachary Siegel, a reporting fellow at the Health In Justice Action Lab at Northeastern University told Fortune. Some advocates worry Warrens proposal doesnt go far enough, as some argue that the proposal is expansive and provides funding that is desperately needed, but could do more. Americas treatment infrastructure is in ruins, said Siegel. A harm reduction advocate recently told me that throwing money into this system is akin to buying new furniture for a house on fire. Looking at how federal money is currently being spent by states, its likely that a significant chunk of the money Warrens plan makes available would go to waste. Warren has so far positioned herself as a leading progressive candidate in the 2020 Democratic presidential race. In recent weeks, she introduced plans to help students with student loan debt in her college debt forgiveness proposal, and later rolled out a proposal to reward hospitals that make childbirth safer for black women. For some, Mark Rothkos art can be as elusive as mercury. Murmurs of even I can paint that can often be overheard by those standing next to his work. For others, Rothkos vision is the apogee of creative expression. Yet theres no confusion over the art markets opinion of his oeuvre. In the past decade alone, a single Rothko painting sold for nearly $190 million. But like many other artists in history, he struggled to survive. Even after Rothko was famous, the Russian-born emigre felt the burdens of financial hardship. In fact, it was in this exact state that Rothko found himself when, in 1957, he moved his studio to a building located on the corner of Bowery and Prince Street, in New Yorks Lower East Side. At that time, the neighborhood was dangerous and drug-ridden, but the studio space was cheap and afforded tall ceilings over uninhabited rectangular rooms, perfect for an artist seeking to work on large murals. Which is precisely what Rothko was there to do; the 54-year-old artist had just been commissioned to paint a series of large murals to hang on the walls of the Four Seasons restaurant within Manhattans soon-to-be-completed Seagram Building. Yet, New York is a city that has the ability to cannibalize its own history. Now, some sixty-two years later, the fate of this near-mythical space is very much in peril. It seems that almost every building in New York City has a remarkable story. But, of course, some are destined to be more interesting than others. And Rothkos former studio at 222 Bowery is somewhere near the top of the list. Even if Rothko hadnt painted there, even if he hadnt worked on his most famous murals in that studio (a series Peter Selz, the former head of painting and sculptures at MoMA, once described as celebrating the death of a civilization), the building still housed some of the most interesting, if not eccentric, people in history. Story continues Mark Rothko (1903-1970) american painter Photo: Getty Images 222 Bowery was originally built in 1884 in a Romanesque Revivalstyle of architecture. The building was the first YMCA to open in New York City (a tour of the building today shows a coal chute and a basement indoor swimming pool in the original design). In fact, Rothkos second-floor studio still has the original showers from the YMCA era and metal cages protecting the ceiling light fixtures, as were seen in older gymnasiums. In 1940 (eight years after the YMCA vacated the building) French painter Fernand Leger moved in. The artist had fled Europe during World War II, and it was in New York that he encountered a newfound perspective on color. I was struck by the neon advertisements flashing all over Broadway, he wrote. You are there, you talk to someone, and all of a sudden he turns blue. Then the color fadesanother one comes and turns him red or yellow. Mark Rothkos Studio 222 Bowery NY Adrian Wilson Photo: Adrian Wilson After Leger, and later Rothkos, stint in the building (the latter eventually moved his studio to another location in 1962), the space turned from one that was exclusively housing artists to one occupied by poets and writers. Thats what eventually led William S. Burroughs to the building, in 1974. He kept the space until his death in 1997, at the age of 83. Mark Rothkos Studio 222 Bowery NY Adrian Wilson Photo: Adrian Wilson Today, several artists and writers still coexist in the space (in fact, Rihanna shot a music video there several years ago). The American poet John Giorno has spent a half-century in the building, witnessing the likes of Robert Rauschenberg, Jasper Johns, Allen Ginsberg, and Andy Warhol come and go from the building in the 1960s (Giorno was the subject of Warhols film Sleep). Yet its Rothkos stint in this building thats making 222 Bowery topical once again. Mark Rothkos Studio 222 Bowery NY Adrian Wilson Photo: Adrian Wilson The adjective storied does little to encapsulate the appeal of this building (which was landmarked in 1998). Nevertheless, now, for the first time, the fate of Rothkos studio is in serious jeopardy. The current owners of the space are seeking to rent it to anyone willing for the tune of $15,000 per month (for either residential or commercial use). The sum is shockingly substantial, particularly since the building does not have an elevator, while the roughly 800-square-foot studio has no kitchen, nor an updated shower or bathroom. But it does still have Rothkos paint flung about the wooden floorboards (after the artist left, American-born Abstract Expressionist painter Michael Goldberg moved in to the space and applied coats of primer to the floor so that Rothkos mark would always remain). Photo: Nick Mafi The cynical view would argue that the owner of the studio will have a myopic approach, renting the space to any philistine who has no intentions of preserving its remarkable legacy. But that doesnt have to be the case. There is currently a group of activists that has taken to the cause of ensuring that Rothkos studio survives to benefit future generations. This space is too important, too woven into the fabric of American culture to let it go to any person willing to rent it out, says Kim Depole, interior designer and curator of 222 Bowery Art. Depole has made the preservation of Rothkos former studio her passion project. My ultimate goal is to convince the likes of Christopher Rothko (the artists son, who is actively involved in managing the Rothko legacy) to take over the former studio. . . . Wouldnt it be incredible if we could turn this space into an artist residency program? A space where creative minds could work in the presence of Rothkos energy? Depole says with an imbued sense of optimism. Photo: Nick Mafi A visitor walking through Mark Rothkos former studio will immediately be struck by an ineffability that only appears when entering a sacred space. The floors of the studio look as if a small explosion was set off in the room, caking the wooden floorboards with various layers of colored paint. Its a fitting floor for the son of Russian anarchists (Rothkos parents immigrated to America in 1913, when Mark was ten years old). Rothko was extremely voluble when he wanted to be, and if one squints in the studio, the image of a man walking around the spaceadjusting his thick-lensed glasses, burning cigarette in one hand, paintbrush in the other, discussing his work with one of his assistantsflashes before them in series of movements. Mark Rothkos paintings are not only the darling of the art market but also approachable for a multitude of innate reasons. His work, perhaps more than any artist, both shouts and whispers at any given moment. The whisper can be noticed in the blunted, hierarchical blocks of paint, as if erasing the detailed brush strokes applied to the canvases of history. Others, however, see a scream, a culmination that exploded into being from everything that preceded his time in art. But this debate can only happen today largely because of the work Rothko put into his art within the walls of 222 Bowery. This building wielded the power of an artists magic for a previous generation. Lets hope it can do that for the next one, too. Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Every investor in Qingdao Port International Co., Ltd. (HKG:6198) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. Institutions will often hold stock in bigger companies, and we expect to see insiders owning a noticeable percentage of the smaller ones. Companies that have been privatized tend to have low insider ownership. Qingdao Port International has a market capitalization of HK$55b, so it's too big to fly under the radar. We'd expect to see both institutions and retail investors owning a portion of the company. Taking a look at our data on the ownership groups (below), it's seems that institutions are noticeable on the share registry. Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholder can tell us about 6198. Check out our latest analysis for Qingdao Port International SEHK:6198 Ownership Summary, May 7th 2019 What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Qingdao Port International? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. We can see that Qingdao Port International does have institutional investors; and they hold 6.4% of the stock. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone, since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of Qingdao Port International, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too. SEHK:6198 Income Statement, May 7th 2019 We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in Qingdao Port International. There is some analyst coverage of the stock, but it could still become more well known, with time. Story continues Insider Ownership Of Qingdao Port International The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances. Our information suggests that Qingdao Port International Co., Ltd. insiders own under 1% of the company. But they may have an indirect interest through a corporate structure that we haven't picked up on. It is a pretty big company, so it would be possible for board members to own a meaningful interest in the company, without owning much of a proportional interest. In this case, they own around HK$8.4k worth of shares (at current prices). It is good to see board members owning shares, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying. General Public Ownership The general public holds a 21% stake in 6198. While this group can't necessarily call the shots, it can certainly have a real influence on how the company is run. Private Company Ownership We can see that Private Companies own 54%, of the shares on issue. It might be worth looking deeper into this. If related parties, such as insiders, have an interest in one of these private companies, that should be disclosed in the annual report. Private companies may also have a strategic interest in the company. Public Company Ownership Public companies currently own 19% of 6198 stock. It's hard to say for sure, but this suggests they have entwined business interests. This might be a strategic stake, so it's worth watching this space for changes in ownership. Next Steps: I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. I like to dive deeper into how a company has performed in the past. You can find historic revenue and earnings in this detailed graph. Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Prodigy frontman Keith Flint died as a result of hanging and drugs that were in his system, an inquest into his death heard on Wednesday, but there was not enough evidence to determine he committed suicide. Flint, a figurehead of the 1990s rave movement famous for tracks such as "Firestarter" and "Breathe," was found dead at his home in March, aged 49. The inquest concluded that he died as a result of hanging, and that cocaine, codeine and alcohol found in his system. "An open verdict was recorded," a spokesman for the coroner said, adding that a full inquest would be held next month. Renowned for his facial piercings, heavy makeup and eccentric devil-horned hair cut, Flint played a major role in establishing the credibility of dance and electronic music. Essex Senior Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said there was insufficient evidence to conclude his death was either an accident or suicide, but said there was no suspicious circumstances and no third party involvement. "We will never quite know what was going on in his mind on that date," the Press Association quoted her as saying. "He clearly was extremely popular, he was much-loved by so many fans." (Reporting by Alistair Smout; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) * Fight for Tripoli risks causing deadly diseases * WHO official says casualties may rise "exponentially" * Hospitals have just 3-4 weeks of emergency supplies By Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA, May 8 (Reuters) - A month-old battle for Libya's capital Tripoli risks causing an "exponential" rise in civilian casualties as well as outbreaks of deadly diseases including cholera, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. Both sides are using ever more sophisticated weapons in a conflict straining life-saving hospital supplies near front lines that will last only a few more weeks, Dr. Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO representative in Libya, also said in an interview. So far, 443 people have been killed and 2,110 injured since the assault by eastern commander Khalifa Haftar's forces on the internationally-recognized government, according to WHO. Twenty-three civilians have died, including four health workers. At least 60,000 people who have fled the fighting in southern outskirts are in makeshift refuges, swelling the city center's nearly half a million population, Hussain added. "The numbers will increase definitely, because the fighting is closing in towards the center, or the more populated area in Tripoli, where then there is a higher likelihood that more and more civilians will be trapped in the cross-fire and there will be more and more civilian casualties," he told Reuters. "LIKELIHOOD OF CHOLERA" WHO medical teams have performed 200 major surgeries in past weeks, as the United Nations pushes for a ceasefire in a nation split and anarchic since the 2011 toppling of Muammar Gaddafi. "For the time being, looking at the number of injured, and the number of those being affected, these supplies can cater for 3 to 4 weeks," said Hussain, a Pakistani expert deployed by WHO in hotspots from Afghanistan to Iraq for the last 20 years. "But if there is no ceasefire and there is no reduction in the scale, scope and intensity of the conflict, even if it goes by the current intensity, we will run out of these supplies." Story continues Trauma kits to treat the wounded have been stockpiled in Tripoli, Benghazi and Sabha, but medicines for chronic disease patients with diabetes or epilepsy are needed, he said. Because of the crisis, WHO is seeking an additional $12 million from donors on top of its annual $42 million appeal for Libya. "We appeal to all the donors, that at the moment even if the (casualty/displacement) numbers are not that high, in the coming weeks these numbers will exponentially increase." With summer coming, those forced out of their homes are susceptible to diarrhea and diseases due to contaminated water and food, crowding and bad sanitation facilities. "There is likelihood now of cholera, for example, in these IDP (internally displaced person) dwellings because the water and sanitation is compromised," he said, also noting risks of hepatitis, typhoid, measles and tuberculosis. (Reporting and writing by Stephanie Nebehay; Additional reporting by Marina Depetris; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) By Michael Taylor KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - A transgender pastor who has gone to court in Hong Kong to win the right to marry same-sex couples said on Wednesday that he conducts such weddings in secret because of the risk of arrest. Marrz Balaoro was arrested in 2017 for holding ceremonies in the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Straight (LGBTS) Christian Church, which he founded in the global financial hub in 2014, although the charges were eventually dropped. "I asked (the police) for a written confirmation that I would not get arrested when I officiate a holy union again and they refused," said the 62-year-old Filipino domestic helper who moved to Hong Kong in 1981 and began living as a boy aged 12. "We cannot do it in the open because of fear of arrest." Homosexuality has been decriminalized since 1991 in Hong Kong, a former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997. The city has an annual pride parade and lively gay scene but it does not recognize same-sex marriage. In a region where no country allows gay or lesbian couples to marry, two gay men launched separate legal bids in January to overturn Hong Kong's ban, arguing that it violates their right to equality. Balaoro's judicial review case, filed at the High Court on Friday, rests on the right to freedom of worship - allowing the faithful to officiate holy unions as they see fit. "We should not be threatened with prosecution because it is our freedom of religion," Balaoro told the Thomson Reuters Foundation on Wednesday. "We can have rights to conduct holy unions because nothing prohibits us from doing that because we are protected under the law," he said, adding that a verdict was due in about one month. Campaigners say gay and transgender people in Hong Kong face widespread discrimination and often come under family pressure to marry and have children. Victory in court would allow Balaoro to conduct same-sex marriages but they would still have no legal weight. Story continues "More countries are opening up ... maybe it is time for Hong Kong to also open up," he said. "While it is progressing, it should move with the times." The government said last year that it will recognize overseas same-sex partnerships when granting dependent visas, after a British lesbian who was denied a spousal visa took it to court and won. (Reporting by Michael Taylor @MickSTaylor; Editing by Katy Migiro. Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's and LGBT+ rights, human trafficking, property rights, and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! The main aim of stock picking is to find the market-beating stocks. But in any portfolio, there will be mixed results between individual stocks. At this point some shareholders may be questioning their investment in China Weaving Materials Holdings Limited (HKG:3778), since the last five years saw the share price fall 49%. We also note that the stock has performed poorly over the last year, with the share price down 41%. There was little comfort for shareholders in the last week as the price declined a further 1.2%. View our latest analysis for China Weaving Materials Holdings To quote Buffett, 'Ships will sail around the world but the Flat Earth Society will flourish. There will continue to be wide discrepancies between price and value in the marketplace...' By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time. While the share price declined over five years, China Weaving Materials Holdings actually managed to increase EPS by an average of 28% per year. So it doesn't seem like EPS is a great guide to understanding how the market is valuing the stock. Or possibly, the market was previously very optimistic, so the stock has disappointed, despite improving EPS. Due to the lack of correlation between the EPS growth and the falling share price, it's worth taking a look at other metrics to try to understand the share price movement. In contrast to the share price, revenue has actually increased by 16% a year in the five year period. A more detailed examination of the revenue and earnings may or may not explain why the share price languishes; there could be an opportunity. You can see how revenue and earnings have changed over time in the image below, (click on the chart to see cashflow). SEHK:3778 Income Statement, May 8th 2019 We consider it positive that insiders have made significant purchases in the last year. Even so, future earnings will be far more important to whether current shareholders make money. Before buying or selling a stock, we always recommend a close examination of historic growth trends, available here.. Story continues A Different Perspective We regret to report that China Weaving Materials Holdings shareholders are down 41% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 5.5%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 12% over the last half decade. We realise that Buffett has said investors should 'buy when there is blood on the streets', but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality businesses. If you want to research this stock further, the data on insider buying is an obvious place to start. You can click here to see who has been buying shares - and the price they paid. China Weaving Materials Holdings is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on HK exchanges. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. By Roli Srivastava KARAULI, India, May 8 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Farm laborer Dharmendra Meena's first year of marriage with his wife Vaijanti in northwest India was "beautiful and carefree." But their first pregnancy changed everything. First came the infection during childbirth, then the stark choice presented by a visiting doctor: undergo a "life-saving" hysterectomy - the removal of her uterus and ovaries - or die. The couple took a loan of 100,000 rupees ($1,400) to cover the procedure, trapping Dharmendra in slave labor and joining thousands of people in rural India estimated to have been duped by unscrupulous doctors into having unnecessary hysterectomies. A Thomson Reuters Foundation investigation found many women - often young - targeted by doctors whom medical experts say seek to profit by prescribing the surgery for minor ailments, with the operation and later costs driving families into debt. Having a hysterectomy brought on the menopause for Vaijanti, also a farm laborer, then aged 19, while Dharmendra was forced to work on the money lender's farm for long hours and low pay as he tried to clear his debt - becoming a victim of debt bondage. He ended up having to do other jobs and take more loans to support his wife and child, and now - seven years after the surgery - earns less than the monthly interest of 6,000 rupees. "The interest on the loan is rising every month," Dharmendra told the Thomson Reuters Foundation, sitting in a sparse hut next to his wife in Taroli, a village in the state of Rajasthan. "We don't sleep any more. We fear the money lender," he said before Vaijanti listed their losses - the wedding jewelry they sold, her fertility, his freedom and their hopes for the future. SEEKING A SOLUTION About 3 percent of Indian women have had the surgery, found a landmark survey in 2018 by the government, which is trying to improve medical standards and reduce malpractice after media reports and a lawsuit drew attention to hysterectomy scams. Story continues The cost of hysterectomies driving families into slavery has largely gone under the radar, human rights activists said. The Indian Council of Medical Research is writing guidelines for hysterectomies, and the health ministry plans to publish a standard operating procedure for gynecologists to follow. But Dinesh Baswal, deputy commissioner of maternal health in the health ministry, said it was a complex problem as women sought hysterectomies thinking that it would help resolve abnormal bleeding or painful periods that stopped them working. "A majority of cases can be handled with the assurance that it will go on its own," Baswal said. "But how do you counsel them? They keep going back to the doctor for a solution." Medical experts and health campaigners said they were concerned action was too slow with India overlooking the financial distress and bonded labor involved post-surgery. The popularity of hysterectomies was once attributed to its coverage by state health insurance schemes for the poor. But the surgery has continued after many states removed the cover due to reports of hospitals carrying out the procedure to claim funds. In visits to about a dozen villages in Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Telangana states over five months, the Thomson Reuters Foundation found hysterectomies were routinely leaving families destitute and trapping people in modern-day slavery. Interviews with 38 women who said they were struggling financially post-surgery uncovered 10 cases of debt bondage, with families selling jewelry, livestock and land to survive. In most cases, their husbands or sons had no choice but to toil for the money lender, who used the debt as leverage to compel them to work without any contract, rights or recourse. The families reported the surgery costing between 30,000 and 100,000 rupees, but many ended up paying more for post-procedure problems. With many women unable to return to work, families' incomes were halved, increasing their dependence on loans. "WAR ON WOMEN" India is home to an estimated 8 million modern-day slaves, working at farms, factories and fisheries, trapped in the sex trade or forced into marriages, according to the Global Slavery Index by the Australia-based charity Walk Free Foundation. While factors ranging from India's caste system to rural-urban migration or drought and deforestation are often cited as causing debt bondage, the financial impact of hysterectomies has received little attention, human rights campaigners say. In a first step to map the problem after years of activism on the medical malpractice, the government last year released data on the number of women who had undergone the procedure. Various states from Telangana to Chhattisgarh have in the past decade cracked down on small private clinics that performed the surgery frequently to claim state health insurance funds. But India has not grasped the scale of how many unnecessary hysterectomies are being performed nationwide, according to activists who said the 2018 survey was only a small first step. More than 22,000 Indian women aged 15 to 49 out of 700,000 surveyed - 3 percent - had undergone a hysterectomy, it found. Half of the women had never gone to school and two-thirds of surgeries were performed in private hospitals, the data showed. Campaigners fear without a crackdown on unscrupulous clinics across rural India, the practice will continue to endanger women's health and trap families in debt bondage. Some medical studies have linked hysterectomies to early onset of osteoporosis and other serious health side effects. "This has to be recognized as a cause of indebtedness and bonded labor," said Bharath Bhushan, founder of Centre for Action Research and People's Development (CARPED) - one of the first organizations to study the medical malpractice in 2005. "This (a hysterectomy) is a big expense for poor families, and it leads to loss of wages as the women are unable to work post-surgery," Bhushan said. "They have lost their health, and livelihood. This is crazy ... this is war on a woman's body." BONDED Over the last decade, activists have recorded thousands of hysterectomies in villages in Telangana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Bihar, Chattisgarh, Karnataka and Odisha, among other states. Deepali Laute was 21 when she had a hysterectomy after being told she could die of her abdominal pain. Laute was a mother of two and the doctor said she no longer needed her uterus anyway. As farm workers in Budhiyad village in Maharashtra, Laute and her husband earned 200 rupees daily. They took a loan of 20,000 rupees from their boss that trapped them in debt bondage. Three years later, she is still recovering from the surgery and cannot work, while her husband Dashrath repays the loan by spending longer hours on his employer's farm for far less money. "We were always poor, but I never had a loan on my head," said Dashrath. While he earns about 250 rupees for a day's work, the loan repayment leaves him with only 50 rupees to take home. "My loan is constantly increasing as I keep borrowing more for recurring medical expenses. Deepali is still not well." Despite their strife, the couple do not regret the surgery. "The doctor said I will die if I don't get my womb removed. I feel a lot of pain after the surgery in my limbs, but at least I am alive," said Laute, feeding goats tied outside her tin shed home in the middle of a pomegranate farm as dusk drew nearer. Baswal, from the health ministry, said various states have started requiring doctors to gain government approval to perform a hysterectomy - to curb unnecessary surgery and fraudulent claims for money. But now people pay for the procedure themselves and move to nearby villages or far-off towns to repay the debt, said Archana Kharche of Astitva, a Maharashtra-based women's rights charity that has the mapped the malpractice in 20 villages in the area. About 400 km (245 miles) east of Budhiyad is Mohammed Nagar village in Telangana state, where generations have undergone the procedure as doctors in the area defy sporadic state crackdowns. Telangana has the highest number of hysterectomies in India - government data shows - with Maloth Bhuti among those who believed the surgery was her best shot at curing period pains. The surgery halved her family income as Bhuti, whose mother and daughter-in-law are among 50 women in the village to have undergone the procedure, was unable to return to her farm work. "I can no longer work. My children take care of me. My husband had to leave the village to work on the money lender's farm. He had no choice," said Bhuti, 45, a mother-of-four. Telangana health director G. Srinivas Rao said the state was informing women in villages of the health risks of the surgery. "We have also asked hospitals to fill out details of each hysterectomy case, which is then audited by health officials. There is some change," said Rao, a doctor. "UNNECESSARY AND UNETHICAL" In Dausa, Rajasthan, advocate Durga Prasad Saini recalled how he started tracking hysterectomies in five private hospitals in the neighboring town of Bandikui almost a decade ago. "We were discussing the problem of female foeticide, when someone said: 'But where are the wombs?'," he said. "Nearly 80 percent of all procedures carried out were hysterectomies. We counted 1,000 hysterectomies in a year in the five (private) hospitals," he said. His findings formed part of a petition filed in 2013 against the practice in the Supreme Court by physician-campaigner Narendra Gupta, founder of non-profit Prayas based in Rajasthan, who sought compensation for the women who had the surgery. The petition - which is still pending in India's top court - and subsequent requests to officials prompted the government to carry out the first-ever national hysterectomy survey, he said. Rural women often do not get a proper consultation at state hospitals so they go to private doctors, where they are advised to undergo "unnecessary and unethical" hysterectomies, he added. "There are enough studies and reports that show clearly that there is a rising number of hysterectomies," Gupta said. "A lot ... are being conducted without other non-invasive methods being explored." While hysterectomies in the West are common post-menopause, activists say many rural Indians are having the surgery young -after being told it offers a quick fix to their period problems. Some doctors say they offer the surgery based on demand. "Women think if the uterus is removed, they will be free of (period pains)," said C.K. Sharma, a doctor who runs a hospital in Karauli, which is popular with women in nearby villages. "If I say no (for a hysterectomy), they will go to another doctor to get it removed," said Sharma, who declined to give his full name and did not respond to further requests for comment. DESPERATE FOR THE DOCTOR Hysterectomies, medical experts say, are never the solution to the problems that women present to doctors, and its demand highlights the issue of private doctors cashing in on ignorance. "Doctors link all of it - their pelvic pain or lower back pain - to the uterus," said Subha Sri, the head of Commonhealth - a Chennai-based coalition of health charities. Subha Sri reviewed hysterectomy cases in southern Karnataka state and said the procedure - which should be carried out only in rare cases - was being arbitrarily done by doctors. "They are introducing health problems and often not treating women for what they had come for," she said. Couples such as Dharmendra Meena and Vaijanti said they felt they had no option but to opt for surgery that was presented as a life-or-death choice at a desperate time. But Vaijanti often wonders about what could have been. "I could have continued working on the farm if I hadn't had the surgery. I would have had another child," the 26-year-old said. "The surgery changed everything." ($1 = 69.2750 Indian rupees) (Reporting by Roli Srivastava @Rolionaroll; Editing by Kieran Guilbert and Belinda Goldsmith. Please credit Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's and LGBT+ rights, human trafficking, property rights, and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! Asia Television Holdings Limited (HKG:707) shareholders should be happy to see the share price up 10% in the last month. But in truth the last year hasn't been good for the share price. After all, the share price is down 21% in the last year, significantly under-performing the market. Check out our latest analysis for Asia Television Holdings Asia Television Holdings isn't currently profitable, so most analysts would look to revenue growth to get an idea of how fast the underlying business is growing. Generally speaking, companies without profits are expected to grow revenue every year, and at a good clip. Some companies are willing to postpone profitability to grow revenue faster, but in that case one does expect good top-line growth. In the last year Asia Television Holdings saw its revenue grow by 10%. While that may seem decent it isn't great considering the company is still making a loss. Given this lacklustre revenue growth, the share price drop of 21% seems pretty appropriate. In a hot market it's easy to forget growth is the life-blood of a loss making company. But if you buy a loss making company then you could become a loss making investor. The chart below shows how revenue and earnings have changed with time, (if you click on the chart you can see the actual values). SEHK:707 Income Statement, May 8th 2019 If you are thinking of buying or selling Asia Television Holdings stock, you should check out this FREE detailed report on its balance sheet. A Different Perspective We regret to report that Asia Television Holdings shareholders are down 21% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 5.5%. However, it could simply be that the share price has been impacted by broader market jitters. It might be worth keeping an eye on the fundamentals, in case there's a good opportunity. On the bright side, long term shareholders have made money, with a gain of 1.9% per year over half a decade. If the fundamental data continues to indicate long term sustainable growth, the current sell-off could be an opportunity worth considering. You could get a better understanding of Asia Television Holdings's growth by checking out this more detailed historical graph of earnings, revenue and cash flow. Story continues For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on HK exchanges. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! KVB Kunlun Financial Group Limited (HKG:6877) shareholders should be happy to see the share price up 21% in the last quarter. But that doesn't help the fact that the three year return is less impressive. After all, the share price is down 49% in the last three years, significantly under-performing the market. See our latest analysis for KVB Kunlun Financial Group While markets are a powerful pricing mechanism, share prices reflect investor sentiment, not just underlying business performance. One way to examine how market sentiment has changed over time is to look at the interaction between a company's share price and its earnings per share (EPS). KVB Kunlun Financial Group saw its EPS decline at a compound rate of 29% per year, over the last three years. This fall in the EPS is worse than the 20% compound annual share price fall. This suggests that the market retains some optimism around long term earnings stability, despite past EPS declines. You can see how EPS has changed over time in the image below (click on the chart to see the exact values). SEHK:6877 Past and Future Earnings, May 8th 2019 Dive deeper into KVB Kunlun Financial Group's key metrics by checking this interactive graph of KVB Kunlun Financial Group's earnings, revenue and cash flow. A Different Perspective We regret to report that KVB Kunlun Financial Group shareholders are down 36% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 6.3%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. On the bright side, long term shareholders have made money, with a gain of 1.6% per year over half a decade. It could be that the recent sell-off is an opportunity, so it may be worth checking the fundamental data for signs of a long term growth trend. Before forming an opinion on KVB Kunlun Financial Group you might want to consider these 3 valuation metrics. Story continues Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies we expect will grow earnings. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on HK exchanges. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Pool via ABC News(LONDON) -- Royal baby Archie! Prince Harry and Meghan took to Instagram Wednesday to announce the name of their newborn son: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed Archie's name alongside a photo of the couple introducing their newborn to his great-grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Also in the photo is Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, who flew from Los Angeles for the birth of her first grandchild and is staying with the couple at Frogmore Cottage. The baby will not carry a courtesy title "at this time," according to Buckingham Palace. Archie automatically inherited the title Earl of Dumbarton, or Lord Dumbarton, as the eldest son of Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex. It was up to Harry and Meghan to decide whether their son used that title or not. Queen Elizabeth II also had the discretion to grant the newborn the title of prince, based on Harry and Meghan's preference. The inclusion of Mountbatten in Archie's name appears to be a tribute to Lord Louis Mountbatten, the uncle of Prince Philip and a cousin of Queen Elizabeth. Mountbatten, a mentor to Archie's grandfather, Prince Charles, was killed in a bombing by the IRA in 1979 in Ireland. Charles once called Mountbatten the "grandfather I never had." Prince William and Kate gave their youngest child, Prince Louis, the first name of Louis in tribute to Mountbatten. Their oldest child, Prince George, also has Louis in his full name, George Alexander Louis. Archie, born May 6 at 5:26 a.m. local time, was introduced to the world by his parents Wednesday in a photo call at Windsor Castle. "It's magic. It's pretty amazing," Meghan, 37, said as Harry, 34, held their son in his arms. "I have the two best guys in the world, so I'm really happy." Archie is seventh in line to the throne, behind Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Prince Harry. He is also the fourth grandchild for Prince Charles and the eighth great-grandchild for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, who were the first royals to meet the newborn. Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, are currently on an official visit to Germany. Archie's aunt and uncle, Prince William and Kate, held an official engagement Wednesday in Wales. Harry -- whose full name is Henry Charles Albert David -- Meghan and their son are now bonding as a family at their Frogmore Cottage home, a short walk from Windsor Castle. "He's just been the dream, so it's been a special couple days," Meghan said. "Parenting is amazing," Harry added. "It's only been, what, two-and-a-half days, three days? But we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy here to spend some precious times with him as he slowly starts to grow up." Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. By Andrew Osborn and Tom Balmforth MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia and Iran condemned the United States on Wednesday, blaming it for what they portrayed as Tehran's forced decision to scale back some curbs to its nuclear programme, while putting the onus on European powers to offer Iran sanctions relief. Iran earlier on Wednesday announced steps that for now stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers under which it agreed to limit its nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. But it threatened more action if it was not shielded from U.S. sanctions. The Kremlin said Iran had been provoked into rolling back some of the terms of the deal due to pressure from the United States, a year after Washington itself pulled out of the pact. "President Putin has repeatedly spoken of the consequences of unthought-out steps regarding Iran and by that I mean the decision taken by Washington (to quit the deal). Now we are seeing those consequences are starting to happen," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. After holding talks in Moscow, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said he could guarantee the nuclear deal's survival if the agreement's European signatories fulfilled their obligations, something he accused them of not doing. "Russia and China fulfilled their obligations... but other parties, including the Europeans, have not been honouring their commitments," said Zarif, saying his country's retreat from certain aspects of the deal was legal and could be reversed. "There's now a short window of time when other signatories of the pact, and in particular European countries, can honour the obligations. If these commitments are honoured we can guarantee the continued survival of the agreement." Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov agreed, calling on Britain, Germany and France to fulfil their obligations under the deal. U.S. pressure on Tehran was making it hard for it to comply with all the terms of the agreement, complained Lavrov. He said it was crucial that Iran be allowed to export its oil, something Washington is trying to prevent, and that it was essential for the nuclear pact's signatories to hold consultations to ensure the agreement survived. (Additional reporting by Andrey Kuzmin; Writing by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Peter Graff) MOSCOW, May 8 (Reuters) - Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told his Russian counterpart on Wednesday that Tehran's decision to reduce some voluntary commitments within its nuclear deal with world powers was legal, the RIA news agency reported. Zarif, in Moscow for talks, told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that Iran's actions did not violate the original terms of the nuclear agreement and that Tehran now had 60 days to take the necessary diplomatic steps. Iran announced earlier on Wednesday it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear program under a 2015 deal with world powers, and threatened to do more -- including enriching uranium to a higher level -- if countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. (Reporting by Andrey Kuzmin Editing by Andrew Osborn) BAGHDAD, May 8 (Reuters) - Iraq oil minister Thamer Ghadhban said on Wednesday he expects his ministry to sign an initial deal with Exxon Mobil and PetroChina "very soon," but did not give a specific date. "We have managed to take a step forward in resolving some lingering issues in the deal," Ghadhban said at an oil ministry event. Once the talks end, the initial deal will be studied by the ministerial energy committee before referring it to cabinet for approval, Ghadhban added. (Reporting by Ahmed Rasheed; writing by Raya Jalabi; editing by Jason Neely) ROME (AP) Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has sacked a junior minister from the right-wing League party in his uneasy coalition populist government who is under investigation for corruption. A cabinet meeting Wednesday decided to remove Armando Siri, a deputy minister for transport who has denied any wrongdoing. Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio said after the meeting that "politicians should take action before the judiciary does" in investigations concerning corruption and organized crime. Di Maio, who heads the populist 5-Star Movement in Conte's coalition, had earlier called for Siri's resignation. But the League party had stood by Siri, saying it had "full confidence" in him. The former rival parties formed a coalition government last year. By Giuseppe Fonte ROME (Reuters) - Italy's coalition parties vowed on Wednesday to patch up their differences and govern for four more years, after Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte sacked a junior minister involved in a corruption scandal despite resistance from the League party. The issue had created fierce tensions between the right-wing League and the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, threatening to pull their alliance apart as the two parties compete ahead of this month's European Union elections. The outcome is a win for 5-Star, whose support is based on a squeaky-clean image and a hard line against corruption, and a setback for the League, whose leader Matteo Salvini had vigorously defended the official. Armando Siri, a League transport ministry undersecretary and economic adviser to Salvini, was put under investigation last month for allegedly accepting a bribe from a wind farm entrepreneur who has been linked to the Mafia. Both Siri and the businessman have denied any wrongdoing. 5-Star had insisted Siri should go, while Salvini argued he should remain in government until proven guilty in court. Conte sacked Siri at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, earning the applause of 5-Star leader Luigi Di Maio and the grudging acceptance of Salvini, who said the government would carry on with its agenda despite the friction over his close aide. "We have so many things to do that no-one will change my view that Italy needs a government," Salvini told reporters. He added that even if, as opinion polls suggest, the League fares much better than 5-Star at the EU elections, he will not push for a cabinet reshuffle to give his party greater clout. Relations between 5-Star and the League have deteriorated in the run-up to the May 26 EU vote, with the two parties often acting more like bitter political enemies than cabinet allies. The tensions have pushed up Italy's borrowing costs, with the gap between its benchmark bond yields and safer German Bunds increasing on Wednesday to the widest in more than two months. The spread narrowed partially after Siri's dismissal and the parties' pledges to plough on together. Di Maio said he was "very proud" of Conte's decision to sack Siri and insisted the coalition would remain in power for a full term despite the internal strife. "It is not a victory for the 5-Star Movement, but for Italians," he told reporters, adding that corruption was a "national emergency" that had to be tackled head on. Conte, a former academic who is close to 5-Star, said the cabinet meeting had been "open and loyal". There was no immediate comment from Siri, who remains a member of the upper house Senate after losing his government role. (Reporting by Giuseppe Fonte and Angelo Amante, writing by Gavin Jones; Editing by Crispian Balmer and Catherine Evans) Britbox is already out in the USA and Canada. Photo: Britbox ITV (ITV.L) has announced Britbox, its joint streaming service with the BBC, is set to launch in Britain in the second half of this year. The broadcaster said it was on track to have the service up and running before the end of 2019. But it left viewers guessing about the exact launch date. The new service has been created to help the broadcasters take on Netflix and other streaming rivals, pooling their content online. It is already available in North America. Customers would pay through a subscription rather than the licence fee, with hopes those not paying the licence fee would be tempted to sign up. READ MORE: Best-selling UK cars right now It has not yet been confirmed how much a subscription will cost, but some reports have suggested it could be 5 a month. The broadcasters say the move is not intended to replace ITV Hub or BBC iPlayer. ITV announced the plans for a 2019 launch in a trading update to investors ahead of its AGM today. The company reported a 4% drop in first-quarter revenue, blaming a late Easter and political uncertainty for weaker advertising demand. But the 743m revenue was above market forecasts of 729m, according to Reuters. ITV said new dramas Manhunt, Cheat, Cleaning Up and The Bay had driven figures. READ MORE: Dominos and Purplebricks have the same problem Jerusalem (AFP) - A dozen cats wake up in cages stacked on top of one another, a pungent odour in the air, while in a room next door two vets work diligently. Captured in the streets of Jerusalem by city workers or brought in by residents, at least 15 cats a day are sterilised at the municipal veterinary centre. But experts say that is far too few to stabilise the city's burgeoning street cat population and allay fears about the impact on its environment and ecosystem from the felines. The concentration of stray cats in the Holy City is among the highest in the Middle East or even the world, experts say. With nearly 2,000 cats per square kilometre (mile), it has a total of some 240,000, in a city of more than 900,000 residents, the Israeli official in charge of its veterinarian services, Asaf Bril, said. Only a large-scale, rapid programme to sterilise some 80 percent of the cats within a six-month period would be capable of bringing the population under control, he said. "To achieve that result, 25 clinics like mine would be needed to sterilise 500 cats per day," he said, at the veterinary services centre, a collection of fading buildings on the edge of Jerusalem. - Going underground - Reducing the cats' access to their main source of food is another option for bringing the stray population under control. The hordes of cats find most of their food in rubbish bins that sometimes overflow, especially in mainly Palestinian east Jerusalem, which Israel occupied in the Six-Day War of 1967 and later annexed. Israel considers the entire city its capital, though public services in parts of east Jerusalem are noticeably poorer than in the mainly Jewish western sector. The city council recently launched a plan to modernise rubbish collection, moving some bins underground and therefore depriving the cats of the food source. "Ultimately, underground rubbish bins that reduce the availability of food for cats are the only solution to control the size of the population," Amir Balaban, of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, said. Story continues But not everyone backs the idea of food deprivation. Jerusalem's newly elected mayor, Moshe Lion, announced in January the creation of feeding stations around the city, with the food in granule form notably, and budgeted 100,000 shekels ($28,000, 24,000 euros) a year for the scheme. The decision aims to provide a transition that is clean and more controlled between the current, free-for-all access to the bins and their eventual removal. - 'Political decision needed' - For Inbal Keidar, a lawyer specialising in animal welfare issues, it is merely a cosmetic measure and fails to adequately address the problem. "What is needed is a real political decision to solve the problem with a massive sterilisation campaign for cats while mobilising associations and public authorities," she said. But she acknowledged that sterilisation was not acceptable to everyone. In 2015, Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel refused to use $4.5 million (four million euros) in government funding made available for the sterilisation of stray cats, Keidar noted. As an Orthodox Jew, the minister had said that castrating cats was contrary to Jewish religious law and had proposed sending stray cats and dogs to other countries instead. Associations and volunteers have sought to fill the void for what they complain is a lack of political will and public funding. Teacher Ilana Ben Joya feeds dozens of cats twice a day in a working-class area of Jerusalem. "It's my second job," said the mother of two, aged in her 50s. "I can't handle knowing that there are so many outside hungry. What worries me is knowing that in a few weeks the females will have babies and we will again hear the meows of kittens." She, too, believes that there should be a large-scale sterilisation programme. - A threat to some species - Balaban said that fixed feeding areas can also prove problematic since the food attracts other animals, including jackals which have been spotted in some Jerusalem neighbourhoods. Some of the wild animals carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as rabies and leishmaniasis. He said the challenge was striking the right balance between protecting the cats and the environment. "Wild cats are active in the nighttime. They eat rodents," he said. "Domestic cats, like gutter cats, depend on people, are active in the daytime and hunt small animals -- lizards, reptiles and small birds," he added. When there are too many cats, "as is the case currently in Jerusalem and in a number of large Israeli cities, they threaten those species", he said. Logo of jester cap with thought bubble. Image source: The Motley Fool. Jones Lang Lasalle Inc (NYSE: JLL) Q1 2019 Earnings Call May. 7, 2019, 9:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Good day, and thank you for standing by. Welcome to Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated First Quarter 2019 Earnings Conference Call. For your information, this conference call is being recorded. I would now like to turn the conference over to Karen Samhat, Senior Vice president of Investor Relations. Please go ahead. Karen Samhat -- Senior Vice President, Investor Relations Thank you, operator. Good morning, and welcome to our First Quarter 2019 Conference Call for Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated. Earlier this morning, we issued our earnings release, which is available on the Investor Relations section of our website, along with the slide presentation intended to supplement our prepared remarks. Please visit ir.jll.com. During the call, we will reference certain non-GAAP financial measures, which we believe provide useful information for investors. We include reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP in our earnings release and supplemental slides. As a reminder, today's call is being webcast live and recorded. A transcript of this conference call will also be posted on our website. Any statements made about future results and performance, plans, expectations and objectives are forward-looking statements. Actual results and performance may differ from those forward-looking statements as a result of factors discussed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31st, 2018 and in other reports filed with the SEC. The Company disclaims any undertaking to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement. And with that I would like to turn the call over to Christian Ulbrich, our Chief Executive Officer, for opening remarks. Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you, Karen. And welcome everyone to this review of our first quarter results. Joining us today for her first earnings call, is Stephanie Plaines, who became our new Chief Global Financial Officer at the end of March. Stephanie joined our March investor call and has experienced a very fast and intense introductory program at JLL. I'm delighted to say that she is already very much up to speed and an integral part of our Company's leadership. As is usual for us on these calls, Stephanie will provide insights about our performance in a few minutes. Story continues Let me summarize highlights for the quarter. Consolidated revenue and fee revenue increased by 11% and 6% respectively in local currency. Growth in fee revenue was predominantly organic led by continued excellent performance in our Americas Leasing business and a double-digit revenue increase in corporate solutions. We achieved record first quarter performance in our real estate services business. LaSalle's assets and the management reached a new high of $64.3 billion. Adjusted net income totalled $41.1 million for the quarter. Adjusted diluted earnings per share totalled $0.89. We continue to invest in and make progress on our digital strategy and platform transformation. In April, we announced that Jeetu Patel has been nominated for election as an Independent Non-Executive Member of our Board of Directors at our 2019 Annual Meeting of Shareholders in late May. Jeetu is the Chief Product Officer and Chief Strategy Officer at Box, Inc. His expertise in emerging technologies will help us drive our leadership in digital and data solutions for real estate and in the innovative technology services we provide to our clients. And our Board of Directors approved a 5% dividend increase to $0.43 per share. Turning to the global economic outlook, economic forecast point to a decline in the economic growth for the year to 3.2% from 3.6% in 2018. Our researchers believe that Q1 will be the softest quarter of the year while significant further slowing of the global economy looks to be limited, helping recession fears receipt. For details see slide 2 in the supplemental information document that posted in the Investor Relations section of jll.com. Transaction in global real estate capital markets declined by 8% to $156 billion year-on-year, with trends (ph) actions taking longer to close as investors increased their underwriting discipline. Prime office capital value growth has gradually moderated over the past year to an analyzed rate of 5.5% across 30 major office markets. In office leasing markets, gross leasing activity in the first quarter maintained the healthy pace of 2018 with global volumes across 96 markets up 2% versus a year ago to 113 million square feet. The global office vacancy rate fell to 11.1% in the first quarter, the lowest level of the current cycle despite elevated levels of new deliveries. Rental growth for prime office space has remained remarkably consistent over the past 18 months, trending at an annualized average of close to 4% across 30 global cities. On the whole then a very decent environment for commercial real estate which allowed us to continue to set new financial performance records in our Real Estate Services business. Now let's turn to Stephanie for detailed comments. Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Christian. And welcome everyone to the call. It's a pleasure to be here today to walk you through our first quarter 2019 results. As Christian outlined on a local currency basis, consolidated revenue and fee revenue increased 11% and 6% respectively, compared with first quarter 2018. This growth was led by continued exceptional performance and leasing and double-digit growth in corporate solutions, partially offset by decline in capital markets investment sales. We are pleased by the growth in our advisory fees and on momentum and capital raising (inaudible) and as expected with our incentive fees and equity earnings return to a more normalized level. For the quarter, real estate service fee revenue growth was predominantly organic with roughly 10% of growth driven by recent acquisitions. As a reminder, we report service line and segment results, changes in local currency unless otherwise noted. Consolidated Leasing fee revenue grew an impressive 22% for the quarter, the outcome of record first quarter performance in the Americas. This was especially noteworthy considering the 2% increase in global leasing market volumes. Our consolidated capital markets fee revenue declined 14% against first quarter 2018 primarily the result of reduced investment sales across all regions but most notably in EMEA. Global market investment sales volumes were down primarily as a result of EMEA market softness. Our property and facility management fee revenue grew 10% for the quarter. Project and development Services grew 4% and our advisory and consulting grew 6%. From the margin perspective, we have provided additional information on Slide 5 of the supplemental materials and I will touch upon the highlights. Adjusted EBITDA margin calculated on a fee revenue basis was 7.2% in US dollars for the quarter. The 120 basis point margin contraction was primarily the result of the sales normalized incentive fees and equity earnings. Strong leasing growth and continued cost management initiatives drove 70 basis points of margin expansion and real estate services inclusive of lower capital markets activity and continued investments. Over the quarter, approximately 50% of the incremental investment spend within operating expenses was related to technology of which half was in support of upgrading platform and business line infrastructure. The remainder relates to client-facing innovation and investments expected to generate future returns. Now turning to debt management, total net debt was $980 million at quarter end, reflecting an increase of $70 million for the first quarter 2018 and an increase of $690 million from year end. The quarterly increase against year-end reflects both, the annual timing of variable compensation paid which is larger due to outstanding 2018 performance and acceleration of certain trade payables related to our financial ERP conversion that is timing only. For the quarter, net debt to trailing 12 month adjusted EBITDA was 1X, the leverage profile that maintains our investment grade balance sheet while providing liquidity to achieve our growth priorities including strategic M&A. On March 19, we announced a definitive agreement to acquire HFF, a leading capital markets intermediary. The proposed acquisition is an exciting step in delivering our long-term strategic goals which we expect to generate high quality accretive earnings with a favourable margin profile within the first full financial year. For more information on this transformative acquisition, please see our HFF presentation materials and the S4 filing posted on our Investor Relations website. Moving to our segment results, first quarter fee revenue in the Americas increased 15% over the prior year, growth was broad based except for capital markets with stellar performance and leasing. We achieved record first quarter leasing fee revenue with growth of 29% compared with 2018. The Northwest, Mid-Atlantic and New York markets together with larger deal sizes drove this outstanding performance. Capital Markets fee revenue was down 8% for the quarter, primarily driven by lower investment sales, partially offset by growth in our debt placement business. Although we are seeing deals taking longer to close, we remain confident in the strength of the pipeline for the remainder of the year as seasonal volumes rise. Also notable, our advisory and consulting businesses grew 28% against first quarter 2018 driven by our US valuation's business. Americas adjusted EBITDA margin calculated on a fee revenue basis was 12.3% for the quarter, representing a 140 basis point improvement year-on-year. The margin improvement primarily reflected improved conversion from leasing revenue growth and cost management initiatives. Turning to EMEA, total fee revenue declined 3% from first quarter 2018. Growth in property and facility management was overshadowed by declines in other service lines, specifically Capital Market. Leasing fee revenue declined 5% for the quarter. Strong growth in Germany was more than offset by lower transactional activity in various markets. UK leasing revenue was consistent with first quarter 2018, despite continued BREXIT uncertainty. Capital market fee revenue was down 23% for the first quarter, largely consistent with the decline in market investment sales and following a record first quarter 2018 when our fee revenue grew 32% compared to 2017. The decline for this quarter was primarily driven by the UK, Germany and France. For the quarter, property and facility management fee revenue increased by 17% due to expansions of existing mandates with corporate solutions clients, most notably in the UK. For the quarter, adjusted EBITDA margin calculated on a fee revenue basis was negative 6%, a decrease of 390 basis points year-on-year primarily due to the decline in revenues from transactional businesses which typically generate higher margins. Moving to Asia-Pacific, fee revenue increased 8% over the first quarter 2018, growth for the quarter was led by our organic growth in property and facility management and project and development services, partially offset by a decline in capital markets revenue. Property and facility management fee revenue increased 16% primarily driven by organic expansion from existing IFM clients plus new client wins. Project and development services fee revenue was up 19%, largely driven by new client wins in Australia. Capital Markets fee revenue declined 8% for the quarter, primarily due to deal timing. Asia-Pacific adjusted EBITDA margin calculated on a fee revenue basis was 3.8% for the quarter, representing a 130 basis point improvement year-on-year. The margin expansion was largely attributable to cost management. Moving to our investment management business, the South fee revenue declined 14% for the quarter, the result of expected lower incentive fees which was noted in our Q4 earnings call. We are pleased with the significant advisory fee growth of 17% for the quarter driven by strong growth in private equity and incremental assets under management from recent acquisitions. In Q4 2018, we acquired the Aviva Investors Real Estate multi-manager business and the remaining ownership interest of the Encore Plus Fund. In the first quarter of 2019, we purchased a majority stake in Latitude Management Real Estate Investors. These acquisitions combined contributed approximately half of the growth in advisory fees. Equity earnings for the quarter were $4.9 million, primarily driven by net valuation increases for investments in Asia and the Americas. This compares to $13.2 million in the first quarter of 2018. LaSalle adjusted EBITDA margin calculated on fee revenue basis was 20.3% compared with 37.4% in the first quarter of 2018. The decrease was primarily the result of the anticipated decline in incentive fees and equity earnings and deferred compensation costs following the exceptional incentive fee performance throughout 2018. Margin pressure from these drivers was partially offset by improved profitability in private equity annuity fees as well as the accretive contributions from recent M&A. For the quarter, LaSalle raised $1.8 billion in new private equity capital, compared with $700 million in the first quarter of 2018. LaSalle private equity and acquisition growth drove assets under management to a record $64 billion, an increase of 6% from quarter four 2018. For the remainder of 2019, we expect incentive fees to continue to normalize and have modest expectations for equity earnings, reflecting a moderation in asset sales and valuation increases. Lastly, for the first quarter of 2019, we recorded an income tax benefit of $700,000 compared with an income tax provision of $13.5 million in 2018. The main driver of the income tax benefit in 2019 was a discrete item reduction and tax reserves of $5.7 million. Action of this, the effective tax rate was 24.5% for the quarter. I will now turn the call back to Christian for final remarks. Christian? Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you, Stephanie. To summarize, how we achieved these results, Slide 15 shows a few recent wins across service lines and geographies. Earlier we talked about double-digit revenue increases in our corporate solutions business. To put numbers to that we won 33 new assignments in the quarter, expanded existing relationships with another 15 clients and renewed 13 contracts. These 61 wins, totalled 131 million square feet across all regions and represent an overall 63% win rate. Ciena Communications Inc, a leading networking systems services and software company selected us to supply integrated facility management and related services globally. In Asia Pacific Shenzhen Horoy in China selected us for facilities management services for Horoy's 538,000 square foot project in Shenzhen. In EMEA, we were retained by BASF to provide strategic consulting advice across a range of corporate real estate work-street. And in the Americas, we expanded our project and development services relationship with US Bancorp. In our capital markets business, although we were unable to outpace the market in the quarter, we continued to win and execute important assignments. In France, we advised AW on their EUR190 million sale of the patio office block in Nanterre and in Australia we advised Dexus in exercising its right to take the remaining 50% interest in the MLC Centre in Sydney City for 800 million Australian dollars. In the Americas, we arranged $250 million loan to refinance tower 28 a luxury multifamily building in Long Island City, New York and early in the second quarter we secured a $664 million in construction financing on behalf of JDS Development Group. The loan will be used to complete the construction of 9 Dekalb Avenue in Brooklyn, New York which will become the world's tallest building when completed in 2022. Turning to leasing and management activity, in the US Keystone Property Group selected JLL to lease the Curtis and historic 813,000 square feet property in Philadelphia that combines office retail and residential space. In Vietnam, we were appointed lead agent for (inaudible) 361,000 square feet office property in the Central Business District of Ho Chi Minh City. In Germany, JLL has been instructed by Brookfield Properties for full service property management of 2.9 million square feet located in 16 buildings at Potsdamer Platz in the heart of Berlin. As Stephanie said, LaSalle continued its impressive 2018 growth in assets under management to $64.3 billion in the first quarter. In Europe, LaSalle closed on the largest single asset transaction in history. The $1.5 billion acquisition for Goldman Sachs new regional headquarters record in Plumtree Court in London. And LaSalle was awarded a significant portfolio take over valued at nearly $800 million by one of the largest pension funds in the US. Now let's look to the future, returning to slide 3, by summarizing JLL's research market outlook for the full year. Despite slowing economic growth in many advanced economies and lower Q1 investment volumes, we expect global investment in commercial real estate to maintain relatively stable declining by about 5% to 10% to roughly $690 billion but still high by historical standards. We forecast that for the full year 2019 global leasing volumes will be broadly flat on 2018 levels and estimated 466 million square feet. The global vacancy rate is expected to edge up to odd 11.5%, the product of higher construction details and stable demand. We remain confident about our ability to keep advancing our business in this environment. We continue to deliver results in line with our beyond strategy, transforming our global platform and offering our clients industry leading digital services. Now our real estate service lines, our leasing and property facility management business continues to make notable contributions and our corporate solutions business shows a very strong pipeline. Also as Stephanie noted in her remarks a healthy working hand-in capital markets business should translate to improved performance as the year progresses. We remain on track to deliver our previously stated 2025 long-term growth targets. If you recall from our last earnings call, this year we expect 6% to 8% organic fee revenue growth in our real estate services businesses. And overall, a consolidated adjusted EBITDA margin profile of 12.5% to 14.5%. As we consider our prospects for the full year and as Stephanie mentioned earlier, I also want to comment on our proposed acquisition of HFF, one of the largest and most successful commercial capital markets intermediaries in the US. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of this year. We see many acquisition opportunities each year and have completed more than 70 in the past four years. In each case, we have been very selective assessing strategic cultural and operational synergies before pursuing any opportunity. HFF clearly passes all those tests and we look forward to welcoming so many new talented colleagues to JLL. To close our prepared remarks on these calls, we like to mention a few of the many awards and honors our people have earned. Our hotels and hospitality group has been named the top ranked from for hotel real estate investment activity in Asia Pacific by Real Capital Analytics. Forbes named us to its 2019 List of America's Best Employers for the fifth consecutive year. In the Scottish Property Awards 2019, we were named Office Agency Team of The Year and were also recognized for the Deal of the Year. For the eighth consecutive year, we were awarded the 2019 Energy Star Partner of the Year sustained Excellent Award by the US Department of Energy and the National Association for Female Executive named us a top company for Executive Women. Congratulations to everyone on JLL and LaSalle who made these and many other honors on as possible. And thanks to all our people around the world for continuing to serve our clients, our shareholders and our firm so well. Now, let's take your questions. Operator, would you please explain the Q&A process? Questions and Answers: Operator (Operator Instructions) Your first question comes from the line of Anthony Paolone from JPMorgan. Your line is open. Anthony Paolone -- JPMorgan -- Analyst Yes. Thank you. My first question is, I think it was in the Americas Capital Markets discussion, you mentioned deals taking a bit longer to close and I was wondering if you can talk about why that is or what the hesitation is in the marketplace that you're seeing? Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Hi, Anthony, it's Christian. Well, what we see is we are obviously a in a pretty long going cycle and sellers are very hesitant to sell great properties and buyers are very hesitant to overpay. And so it takes us longer until sellers and buyers can agree on the deal. We have a massive capital overhang trying to get into the market that we don't have enough product which is being offered and as I said the product which is being offered the sellers are not trying to sell at any price, they have very high expectations and the buyers don't want to be the stupid once. Anthony Paolone -- JPMorgan -- Analyst Okay. And then on the leasing side continues to be quite strong, what's your sense as to how long this strength can last and how much of this should we think of as being a just step-up in the market share that JLL has versus perhaps just the market at the moment being robust and at some point we have to think about that normalizing. Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer The market is very robust and at the moment we don't see any signs of loosening of that market. We had a very strong first quarter, we said on the call that we have a very strong backlog going into the first quarter and the same is true. Now we had a very, very strong first quarter in our leasing business in the Americas and we have a very strong backlog going forward. There is absolutely no signs that this is coming down. Anthony Paolone -- JPMorgan -- Analyst Okay. And last question just on the balance sheet. I know some of the cash usage in the quarter was timing but if we just think about accelerating some of the cash payments the upcoming HFF transaction, where do you think net debt to EBITDA lands at the end of the year, when all the said and done? Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer Hello, this is Stephanie Anthony. So I think in terms of our cash flow from operations, you will note that our cash flow balances dropped about $290 million from prior year quarter. So a large portion of that is related to timing. So we were, as you know, progressing in our ERP migration across the globe and this one is related to our EMEA timing of the PeopleSoft rollout. So that that amount is just a timing issue and we'll come back to us in the quarter. In terms to the second part of your question on HFF, so as you've probably seen in our S1 document, we are very pleased to say that we were able to fund this potential acquisition through a combination of cash and leveraging our existing revolver. So with that, we expect to go up from our leverage ratio which is now at about a 1X to go higher but still well below our 2X kind of threshold that we've said that we want to stay in for investment grade profile. Anthony Paolone -- JPMorgan -- Analyst And you think that that remains the case with sort of the purchase of HFF in any sort of retention payments or anything that comes along with the deal thereafter? Is that kind of where you still land? Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer Yes, I think you know well that our business is somewhat cyclical and seasonal on a quarterly basis, so there could be some very minor ups and downs to that but when we think about as a whole where we land at the end of the year post HFF, we expect to be remaining within those brackets. Anthony Paolone -- JPMorgan -- Analyst Okay, great. Thank you. Operator Your next question comes from the line of Alan Wai from Goldman Sachs. Your line is open. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst Thanks very much. Regarding the HFF acquisition, when do you expect the proxy filing? Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer For the S4, it was already HFF filed Jade, so we're through that. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst Okay. Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer And that as we said before, we expect this transaction to close in Q3 of the year. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst Can you make any comments as to broker reactions and client feedback over the past quarter? Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Our client feedback has been very, very strong and that is what we would have expected and at times are very happy with that move. We have heard for many years from our clients that they would like us to strengthen our US platform and so the direction is in line with that. Brokers also most of them are very happy with that move. Obviously, in some markets where there is a bit of overlap, there are some discussions going on but we are very positive how that continues at the moment within our own offices and what I hear is that on the HFF side, they are equally positive with their discussions and so everything is well in line within our expectations. This was a well thought through activity. We didn't rush into that. We took a lot of time to prepare that and hopefully that is paying out now. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst Are you still confident in the synergy targets that you laid out when the deal was announced? Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yes, absolutely. We are very confident. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst Turning to leasing, I was wondering if you have any data on the magnitude of growth that was driven by the combination of Tech, co-working and the industrial space. With those three sub sectors combined with more than 50% of leasing growth this quarter? Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Well, you capture the right ones. I mean, much of the activity was driven by the tech sector and the co-working providers, especially New York, Northwest and the Mid-Atlantic markets. So this is something which we believe will continue to be the case. As I said, we have a very strong backlog and our own positioning in those sectors is specifically strong. So we tend to take a higher share of that volume compared to some of our competitors. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst And do you have any concerns about the sustainability of a co-working trend? Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Co-working, we tend to call it flex space but if you want to call it co-working is something which is here to stay. It is just an offering which is very advantageous for the uses of office space so our corporate clients do like the flexibility. What we expect is that there will be a pretty fierce price competition coming into that market but we are service provider, we are not offering that as a principle that service. So for the time being, we just see that we have lots of opportunity to identify new clients and help them with our services. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst And then just lastly, in terms of the advisory business and the strong growth in valuation and appraisal, how much of that activity is driven by property owners, reassessing their outlook and decision-making with respect to their holdings? Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer That actually has nothing to do with that. Our growth in that business is that we did a couple of acquisitions two years back in the US around the valuation advisory business. We have integrated the now we have hired more people. And we just growing our market share in that business in the US coming from a relatively small market share we have tremendous growth potential over the next couple of years there. So you will continue to see that going forward. Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst Thanks for taking the questions. Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Sure. Operator Your next question comes from the line of Stephen Sheldon from William Blair. Your line is open. Stephen Sheldon -- William Blair -- Analyst Good morning. First within the Americas, obviously really strong margin performance there and you talked about the tech investments still being a drag but can you help us frame the impact of the two main items that you called out that drove the expansion. I think it was leasing outperformance in the broader cost management initiatives? Is there any way to break down the margin impact of those two items, was it pretty even, I guess, between those two factors? Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer It's Stephanie. It's nice to speak with you, Stephen. So overall we were very pleased with the margin expansion we converted very well from the top-line record growth in the Americas business and guide 140 basis points in that. I would say in terms of our investment, it was mostly leasing obviously that drove that margin expansion. When I think about the EBITDA walk that we provided on our supplemental slides five, we're showing about 95 basis points of an investment drag, if you will. And I would say that that's probably representative of what we are seeing in each of the regions. If I think about it kind of from a cost perspective, I would say the vast majority of that organic growth is coming from the business and I would give it about probably about 20% of it is coming from cost management. Stephen Sheldon -- William Blair -- Analyst Great, that's helpful. And then at LaSalle on the AUM, can you maybe talk about the roughly $5 billion and dispositions withdrawals during the quarter, was that bigger than you would have expected? It seems like that was a little higher relative (ph) to what you've seen in the first quarter of the past few years. So anything to call out there on the factors that drove that a little bit higher. Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer Nothing that we're seeing that unusual in that business, so I think we had spoken just to put a bow around LaSalle, I think we signalled our incentive fees in our equity earnings decline, so they're right in line with what we had signalled in Q4 and we're really pleased with the annuity growth which is the advisory fees that were up 13% or $9 million. When I think about the AUM expansion, it's a record for us 6% growth which you saw and I would say, half of that is attributed to the recent acquisitions we've named Aviva which comes online with our quarterly lag. So the rest of that is just, I would think what we would consider kind of normal course of business of growth and dispositions. So nothing unusual there to note in the Q1. Stephen Sheldon -- William Blair -- Analyst Okay. Great thank you. Operator There are no further questions. And then I will turn the call back to management for closing remarks. Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer With no further questions, we will close today's call. Thank you for participating. Stephanie and I look forward to speaking with you again following the second quarter. Operator Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your participation. This concludes today's conference call and you may now disconnect. Duration: 40 minutes Call participants: Karen Samhat -- Senior Vice President, Investor Relations Christian Ulbrich -- President and Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Plaines -- Chief Financial Officer Anthony Paolone -- JPMorgan -- Analyst Jade Rahmani -- KBW -- Analyst Stephen Sheldon -- William Blair -- Analyst More JLL analysis All earnings call transcripts AlphaStreet Logo More From The Motley Fool This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. Motley Fool Transcribers has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. By Elizabeth Dilts NEW YORK (Reuters) - Proxy advisory group ISS has advised JPMorgan Chase & Co shareholders to vote against the bank's executive compensation at its upcoming annual shareholder meeting, according to a report the firm published this week that was seen by Reuters. This is the third time the group has advocated voting against JPMorgan's executive compensation since the Dodd-Frank law mandated shareholders be given a say on pay in 2010. Each time, ISS has cited discretionary compensation as a concern. JPMorgan, the largest U.S. bank by assets, did not immediately provide comment on the ISS view. The bank's board of directors recommended in its proxy filing that shareholders vote to approve executive compensation at its shareholder meeting next week in Chicago, based on the company's strong business results, risk controls and conduct, customer and stakeholder focus, and leadership in 2018. The influential proxy advisory firm said that although JPMorgan's compensation committee uses performance assessments to guide the amount of discretionary compensation awarded, certain "factors assessed were described only vaguely and appear subjective." "Investors increasingly prefer an incentive program structure that constrains discretion in favor of emphasis on objective and transparent determinations that are more compatible with pay-for-performance," ISS wrote. ISS said it was also concerned about the vesting of one part of the pay plans described as performance share units. ISS previously advised voting against executive pay in 2015 because it objected to a discretionary cash bonus, and in 2011 because it said the chief executive pay was "significantly above-median" and the discretionary components reduced the focus on performance. JPMorgan Chief Executive Jamie Dimon, who has led the bank since 2005, received a total of $31 million in compensation for the year 2018, $1.5 million more than in 2017. His compensation included an annual base salary of more than $1.5 million and performance-based incentives of $29.5 million. Story continues The shareholder vote on executive compensation next week is ultimately nonbinding. However, the bank's board said in its 2019 proxy statement that it will consider the results of the vote when making future compensation arrangements. In Britain, Standard Chartered faced investor criticism at its annual shareholder meeting on Wednesday after roughly a third of votes were cast against its executive compensation plans. Standard Chartered's pay plans differ significantly from U.S. banks. ISS and another advisory firm, Glass Lewis, had advised shareholders to vote against the plans. (Reporting By Elizabeth Dilts; additional reporting by David Henry in New York; editing by Bill Berkrot and Jonathan Oatis) KABUL, May 8 (Reuters) - A car bomb targeted an international aid organization in an upscale area of Kabul, the Afghan capital on Wednesday, the third day of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, sending a plume of smoke and dust into the sky, security officials said. The attack targeted the office of non-profit Counterpart International in the Shahr Naw area of Kabul, they added. A health ministry spokesman, Wahidullah Mayar, said nine wounded people had been taken to hospital. (Reporting by Hamid Shalizi, Abdul Qadir Sediqi; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) KABUL (Reuters) - A car bomb targeted an international aid organisation in an upscale area of Kabul, the Afghan capital on Wednesday, the third day of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, sending a plume of smoke and dust into the sky, security officials said. The attack targeted the office of non-profit Counterpart International in the Shahr Naw area of Kabul, they added. A health ministry spokesman, Wahidullah Mayar, said nine wounded people had been taken to hospital. (Reporting by Hamid Shalizi, Abdul Qadir Sediqi; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) A plan for fixing problems in the troubled Kansas prison system that could have created bipartisan harmony has instead inspired finger pointing and prompted complaints that the Republican-controlled Legislature botched pieces of the next state budget. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and Republican legislators agreed that the state Department of Corrections needed extra funds to boost employees' pay, deal with inmate crowding and address other issues. They also agreed on a figure: almost $36 million, or an extra 8.8% for the budget year beginning in July. However, the department, Kelly and her fellow Democrats are unhappy because of strings Republican legislators attached to the new funds. One provision blocks the department's plan to address staffing problems at a maximum-security state prison for men by temporarily closing a cell house and moving inmates to private prisons. Interim Corrections Secretary Roger Werholtz said another provision could thwart the department's plans to create new space to house female inmates. Also, to spend most of the new funds, the department must first have its plans reviewed and approved by the governor and eight top legislative leaders. "It's slowing down our ability to respond to the conditions that we've got," Werholtz said during an Associated Press interview. "It can create some significant problems for us if we can't get the money released quickly." Kansas has more than 10,000 inmates, slightly more than the capacity of its prisons, with continued population growth expected. It has been beset by staffing shortages and had four riots at three prisons from June 2017 through November 2018. Werholtz initially received praise from GOP legislators for giving them a more complete picture of the department's problems than his Republican-appointed predecessor. But some Republicans now worry that he's resisting legislative oversight. Story continues "We're talking about 35 million taxpayer dollars," said state Rep. J.R. Claeys, a central Kansas Republican and House budget committee member. "There has to be a level of oversight." GOP lawmakers added the stipulations during an impasse over the budget and Kelly's unsuccessful attempt to pass a Medicaid expansion bill this year. Some Democrats saw the final version of the spending bill as a "revenge" budget. Republicans said they wanted extra oversight because Kelly outlined her proposals for the extra spending last week, days before lawmakers finished their work. Werholtz said discussions about possible proposals began in late March. "The money is pretty much there," said Sen. Rick Billinger, a Republican from western Kansas involved in drafting the budget's final version. "Justifying additional pay to increase staff and things like that are pretty easy to sell, I think." Kelly said Wednesday that she is "pretty confident" that her administration can work with the budget provisions but called the strings attached "unfortunate." "When you're playing with people's lives, you need to be a lot more careful," she said during a brief interview. The budget includes more than $16 million for the department to house 600 inmates in private prisons, though only a third of the money would be available immediately. One provision prevents the Department of Corrections from temporarily closing one of its cell houses at its maximum-security prison outside El Dorado, about 30 miles northeast of Wichita, where riots occurred in June 2017 and July 2018. The state declared an emergency there in February so it could lengthen employee shifts. Werholtz said the prison would close a cell house and move inmates to private prisons or county jails until it could hire the 35 to 40 new employees it needed to reopen the cell house. Claeys questioned the wisdom of closing a cell house when the state's prisons already are crowded and said boosting pay and aggressively recruiting new officers are the real answers. The budget mandates a 15.9% pay increase for El Dorado's officers, to boost their hourly wage above $18. Werholtz had proposed pay raises of up to 13% and said lawmakers didn't provide enough money to go higher across the board, potentially creating morale problems later. And the budget sets aside $3 million for "renovations" at the state's juvenile corrections center in Topeka, to create separated space for 120 adult female inmates so the state women's prison, also in Topeka, is not overcrowded. However, Werholtz said the department wants to use the money to hire staff and set up a substance-abuse treatment program, not make extensive renovations. He said the budget's wording might prevent him from spending the money on those items. ___ Follow John Hanna on Twitter: https://twitter.com/apjdhanna . Katie Price says she looks like a Space Invader (ITV) Katie Price has admitted that her recent cosmetic surgery left her looking like a Space Invader after her face became swollen from the procedure. Speaking to Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid on Good Morning Britain on Wednesday, the former glamour model explained that her face was still swollen after having her own fat inserted under her eyes. I look like a Space Invader, because its still really swollen, she said. I do look a bit different. I had my own fat put under my eye. They didnt want to cut my eyes. I didnt want to have filler. As you get older, you do get wrinkles under here. I had my own fat out under there and then at the side I just had it lifted its safer than putting chemical stuff in. Read more: Katie Price putting son Harvey into care so he can get daily exercise On the amount of surgeries she has, she said: I think Ive calmed it down. If you look back at pictures, I think its the Dwight [York] days, I looked like a duck, I had my lips done. I think I looked horrific then. Katie Price reveals she had her own fat put under her eyes (ITV) Price added that, considering she can have cosmetic surgery for free, she thinks she doesnt abuse the privilege and could easily go overboard with it if she wanted to. Her mum Amy also joined her on the morning show via a video stream from Spain and told her daughter she didnt need any more surgeries. Read more: Katie Price reveals her daughter Princess is embarrassed by her dressing like a teenager Amy said: She [Price] gives me a little hint [that shes having another surgery] and I go dont you dare go and have anything done. You dont need it, you are beautiful the way you are. Also on the show, Price revealed that she had liposuction from her knees to her waist, saying: I had my own fat put in my bum, you can call it a Brazilian bum lift but I havent had implants and I havent gone that big. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UK Kendrick Castillo was identified Wednesday as the student killed during a school shooting in Colorado after he lunged at the gunman. Castillo, 18, was a senior at STEM School Highlands Ranch when he was killed after two students armed with handguns entered the Denver-area school Tuesday afternoon. Eight other students were injured before the suspects were taken into custody. Niu Giasolli, a classmate of Castillos, said Castillo died after lunging toward one of the shooters, giving his classmates time to escape. Kendrick Castillo, 18, was killed after lunging at one of the gunmen yesterday during the school shooting in Colorado. Our children shouldnt have to stand up to gunmen because too many of our lawmakers are too afraid to stand up to gun lobbyists. Text ACT to 644-33. pic.twitter.com/4BVDNj5GhB Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) May 8, 2019 [The gunman] walked to the other side of the classroom where we also had another door, Giasolli told the Today show. And he opened the door he walked back as if he was going to go back to his seat and then he walked back to the door and he closed it. The next thing I know hes pulling a gun and hes telling nobody to move. Castillo went after the gunman, Giasolli said. Thats when Kendrick lunged at him and he shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe and to run across the room to escape, Giasolli said, adding that three other students also ran toward the gunman to apprehend him. The students dad, John Castillo, told ABC News his son was a hero. I want people to know about him, John Castillo said. Love HuffPost? Become a founding member of HuffPost Plus today. This article originally appeared on HuffPost. By Gabriella Borter May 8 (Reuters) - Kendrick Ray Castillo, the 18-year-old who sacrificed his life to save other students during a shooting in a suburban Denver high school, loved robotics, helping out the elderly in his community and making people laugh, his friend told Reuters. Cece Bedard, who knew Castillo since elementary school, said she broke down in tears when she heard her friend had died but was not surprised at his selfless act. "There is no doubt in my mind that he would have done anything he thought he could have to help anyone," Bedard said on Wednesday. Two teenagers are accused of opening fire on fellow students on Tuesday at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, about 25 miles (40 km) south of Denver, killing Castillo and injuring eight other students. Witnesses said Castillo, who was due to graduate from the Colorado high school in three days, charged one of the shooters, who killed him. "Kendrick lunged at him," senior Nui Giasolli told NBC News, referring to the older of the two shooting suspects, Devon Erickson, 18, who was being held on Wednesday on murder and attempted-murder charges. "He shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape, Giasolli said. When they were in middle school, Castillo and Bedard both volunteered with their fathers at the local chapter of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic men's community service organization. Castillo loved tagging along with his father to volunteer with the Knights of Columbus, whether it involved carrying heavy crates of fruit for a peach drive or setting up senior lunches. He was especially good at connecting with the elderly people he served, Bedard said. "He was always there earlier than I was and was always there later than I was," she said. His friends remember Castillo as a goofy jokester, although his humor was never at anyone's expense, Bedard said. He had a strong sense of self and did not care what other people thought of him, a trait that made him stand out among his peers. Castillo was enthusiastic about robotics and was a member of a regional robotics team, another community that was mourning his loss on Wednesday. "We're heartbroken by the death of Kendrick Castillo, a victim of the STEM School Highlands Ranch shooting in Littleton, CO. Kendrick was a member of @Frc4418, of which his father is Lead Mentor," tweeted FIRST, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing youth in STEM. (Reporting by Gabriella Borter in New York; Editing by Frank McGurty and Phil Berlowitz) Johannesburg (AFP) - A potpourri of 48 political parties contested South Africa's general election Wednesday -- a record number. Here are snapshots of some of the front-runners: - African National Congress - The African National Congress rose from a liberation movement to govern Africa's most industrialised country, but its once-glorious image has been tainted by its record in office. It was founded in Bloemfontein in 1912 to fight against the white minority government's restrictions on free movement and land ownership by blacks. During the anti-apartheid struggle, the ANC espoused socialist values and had many communist members, but in power, it has adopted a more liberal economic programme. It has easily won all post-apartheid elections and has a stranglehold on parliament, where it has held over 60 percent of the 400 seats since the dawn of democracy. It goes into the elections under Cyril Ramaphosa who took over less than 18 months ago from Jacob Zuma, whose rule was defined by corruption among party and government officials, and weak economic growth. - Democratic Alliance - The Democratic Alliance was established in 2000 as a merger of three "white" parties. One among these was the former Democratic Party, which had opposed the then-ruling National Party in parliament, and another the New National Party -- which had tried, unsuccessfully, to distance itself from its predecessor's racist past. The DA has been the largest opposition party for nearly two decades, with 89 seats in the outgoing parliament. Long viewed as the party for middle-class whites, the DA heads into elections under its first black leader Mmusi Maimane, who took the reins in 2015. - Economic Freedom Fighters - The EFF was created in 2013 by the firebrand ex-ANC youth leader Julius Malema, shortly after he was expelled from the ruling party. His new party took 25 seats in parliament in 2014 and polls suggest it could nearly double that Wednesday by tapping into the anger of millions of poor, unemployed black South Africans. Story continues The EFF describes itself as a "radical and militant economic emancipation movement" and its flagship policy is to seize land from white owners without compensation to give to poor blacks. The anti-capitalist party also advocates for the nationalisation of mines and banks. - Inkatha Freedom Party - Founded in 1975 as a political and cultural movement, it transformed into a political party 15 years later and has had only one leader: Mangosuthu Buthelezi, 90. It is motivated by Black Conciousness political ideology and derives most of its support from the Zulu ethnic group in the southeastern KwaZulu-Natal province. In the first non-racial elections in 1994, the IFP won 43 seats -- but its showing dwindled to just 10 seats in the last vote in 2014. - United Democratic Movement - Formed in 1998, its leader is Bantu Holomisa, former leader of the apartheid-era Transkei "independent" homeland -- areas where blacks were moved to separate them from whites. Holomisa is another former ANC member. The UDM's biggest support base is in the Eastern Cape province. Contesting its first election in 1999, the party garnered 3.5 percent of the vote and secured 14 seats in the national assembly. Its support has slipped to just four lawmakers in the outgoing parliament. - GOOD - The Good party was formed just six months ago by Patricia De Lille, a former DA mayor in the city of Cape Town who had split from the DA in an acrimonious row. It could take some of the DA support base in the Western Cape, but its political potential is as yet untested. Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! The big shareholder groups in Beijing North Star Company Limited (HKG:588) have power over the company. Generally speaking, as a company grows, institutions will increase their ownership. Conversely, insiders often decrease their ownership over time. Companies that have been privatized tend to have low insider ownership. Beijing North Star has a market capitalization of HK$15b, so we would expect some institutional investors to have noticed the stock. Our analysis of the ownership of the company, below, shows that institutional investors have bought into the company. We can zoom in on the different ownership groups, to learn more about 588. View our latest analysis for Beijing North Star SEHK:588 Ownership Summary, May 8th 2019 What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Beijing North Star? Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices. Beijing North Star already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own 9.9% of the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone, since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of Beijing North Star, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too. SEHK:588 Income Statement, May 8th 2019 Beijing North Star is not owned by hedge funds. Our information suggests that there isn't any analyst coverage of the stock, so it is probably little known. Insider Ownership Of Beijing North Star The definition of company insiders can be subjective, and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it. Story continues Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own less than 1% of Beijing North Star Company Limited. However, it's possible that insiders might have an indirect interest through a more complex structure. It is a pretty big company, so it would be possible for board members to own a meaningful interest in the company, without owning much of a proportional interest. In this case, they own around HK$102m worth of shares (at current prices). It is always good to see at least some insider ownership, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling. General Public Ownership The general public, mostly retail investors, hold a substantial 51% stake in 588, suggesting it is a fairly popular stock. This size of ownership gives retail investors collective power. They can and probably do influence decisions on executive compensation, dividend policies and proposed business acquisitions. Private Company Ownership It seems that Private Companies own 34%, of the 588 stock. It might be worth looking deeper into this. If related parties, such as insiders, have an interest in one of these private companies, that should be disclosed in the annual report. Private companies may also have a strategic interest in the company. Public Company Ownership Public companies currently own 3.7% of 588 stock. This may be a strategic interest and the two companies may have related business interests. It could be that they have de-merged. This holding is probably worth investigating further. Next Steps: It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Beijing North Star better, we need to consider many other factors. I always like to check for a history of revenue growth. You can too, by accessing this free chart of historic revenue and earnings in this detailed graph. If you would prefer check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, backed by strong financial data. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Tatyana Makeyeva/Reuters Jeremy Brooks, a 22-year-old fishing guide from Santa Fe, New Mexico, had recently scored a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a job at a Russian fishing lodge. Brooks, who picked up his first fly-fishing rod when he was just 7 years old, prepared diligently for the coveted position. He spent a month in Washington State learning to cast with a new rod he bought specifically for the job, his best friend, Marco Rossetti, told the Santa Fe New Mexican. But soon after arriving in Russia, Brooks dreams were cut short: On Monday, family and friends identified him as the sole American who died when a Russian plane crashed and burned on a Moscow runway Sunday evening. He was always so positive, just a kind soul, his friend and former boss, Ivan Valdez, said, according to the New Mexican. He had a kindness about him that just everyone was attached to and loved. Valdez, who hired Brooks to work at his fly-fishing shop and guide service when he was just 16, added: Hes like a son to me. I cant believe hes gone. Hes the best person you could ever meet. Brooks had just graduated from Colorado College with a major in environmental studies, the New Mexican reports. Local ABC affiliate KOAT7 added that he was well-known as a fishing guide in Tesuque, where he lived. Valdez, whom Brooks family reportedly asked to handle media inquiries, said that the U.S. Embassy has confirmed Brooks death. Rossetti, told the New Mexican that Brooks was traveling to Russia to work at the most prestigious fly-fishing lodge in the world. It costs about $15,000 for a week of fishing, and to get the position that he got is unheard of, Rossetti said. Thats not an easy job to get. I think theres only two or three Americans who have ever guided there. The Aeroflot plane carrying Brooks, which was traveling from Moscow to the northern city of Murmansk, quickly doubled back toward Moscows Sheremetyevo Airport after taking off, according to flight-tracking data. Story continues Video shows the Russian-made Sukhoi Superjet S100 trying and failing to land smoothly on the tarmac. After striking the runway and bouncing back up a few times, the plane crashed down, engulfing the rear half in flames. As the burning plane skidded across the runway, black columns of smoke floated to the sky. Once the plane stopped, passengers could be seen escaping on the planes inflatable yellow slides. Only 37 passengers on the flight survived, Russian officials said Sunday night. Forty-one people, including Brooks, did not. Its not yet clear what caused the plane to crash. The pilot, Denis Evdokimov, reportedly said Monday that the plane was struck by lightning soon after takeoff, cutting off communications with air-traffic control. Officials said Monday that the planes black boxes had been recoveredand that they were considering inexperienced piloting, technical failure, and poor weather as potential causes of the deadly crash. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced Monday morning that one American had perished in the crash but did not name the victim. We join @USEmbRuPress @USEmbRu in expressing sincere condolences to the families of all who were lost or injured in yesterdays tragic plane fire at Sheremetyevo airport, including one U.S. citizen, Pompeo tweeted. Rossetti told the New Mexican that Brooks just loved everyone for who they were. There wasnt a bar that he would go into and not introduce himself to the bartender and start hanging out and making friends with everyone, he said, adding, He supported and encouraged everyone. In a 2016 interview posted on Valdezs companys website, Brooks said he started fly fishing when he was just 7 years old. Every single day Im grateful that I picked up a fly rod when I did, he said, adding that its a love that has meant everything to me for the majority of my life. Read more at The Daily Beast. Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is threatening to spiral out of control, with ongoing violence aimed at the Ebola response workers undermining efforts to stop spread of the deadly virus. STAT spoke to a number of experts involved with or closely monitoring the situation to try to get a sense of where the outbreak in northeastern DCR is heading. Each one agreed: A disaster is unfolding. The numbers in the last month have been horrifying, said Dr. Jeremy Farrar, director of the Wellcome Trust, a major funder of the Ebola response. Its on a knife edge. Im not sure how else to describe it, really. The World Health Organization is doing scenario mapping trying to figure out just how bad this outbreak might become. But Dr. Mike Ryan, executive director of the emergencies program, wont share what they see as they look at their models. Thats for planning purposes, not for speculation, Ryan insisted in an interview with STAT on Monday. Read more: WHO broadens the pool of people who can get the Ebola vaccine The statistics are grim: Double-digit daily increases in the case count are now the norm. Most new cases are people who never hit the radar of the teams searching for those who have been exposed to the virus, so they were never offered the experimental Ebola vaccine being used to try to contain the outbreak. Treatment centers are under armed guard, protecting health workers but discouraging people with Ebola from seeking their care, people familiar with the situation say. Ebola treatment centers and roadside checkpoints have been torched; response workers have been beaten. On April 19, Dr. Richard Mouzoko, an epidemiologist from Cameroon working for the World Health Organization, was murdered when gunmen burst into a meeting he was leading. Given the real threat to their staff, some organizations have reduced the number of non-Congolese workers they have on the ground in Butembo and Katwa, the epicenters of transmission. Contingency planning has some agencies simultaneously trying to figure out what conditions would prompt them to return some international staff to the outbreak zone and what might trigger a total withdrawal. Story continues Even the WHOs Ryan admitted that if this were some other emergency, not an Ebola outbreak, the danger the response workers face would likely have led to a withdrawal by now. I honestly, honestly, honestly think that in very many other humanitarian situations, that decision might have been taken already, Ryan said. But thats not an option with Ebola, which is currently killing about 66% of people who are being infected in this outbreak, now in its 10th month. As of Sunday, there were 1,572 cases reported and 1,045 deaths. Its the second largest outbreak on record and will soon be four times bigger than the third on the list. If we leave, the disease spreads. And then it will be huge, Ryan said. And then were going to end up expending more resources, were going to end up with more people dead, and were going to end up taking exactly the same risks to stop it, but at a much higher scale of exposure. Read more: Urgent steps are needed to prevent Ebola from spinning out of control in the DRC As it is, the cost of running the operation is crippling. Ryan said recently the organizations working on the response have an urgent funding gap of $54 million, which, if not soon filled, could see some forced to scale back their operations because they cannot pay staff. The frustrating thing for the people leading and working on the outbreak response is that the steps needed to stop an Ebola outbreak are well-known. Even in the days before the vaccine was developed, finding and isolating cases, monitoring the health of their contacts, and quickly isolating those who become sick and burying safely those who succumb has time and again broken the chains of Ebola transmission. But this time, persistent resistance from the people in the affected communities, fueled by decades of conflict in the region, has rendered the response teams incapable of putting into effect these tried and true measures. Do we lack the operational capacity to stop Ebola? No. Do we lack the tools to stop Ebola? No. What we lack right now is the environment, the access, the enablement, said Ryan. Too many disabling factors from security to money that really hold us back on a daily basis. The failure to contain the epidemic is raising fears of catastrophe. Michael Osterholm, director of the University of Minnesotas Center for Infectious Diseases Research and Policy, called the situation unprecedented. We are truly in uncharted Ebola-control territory, Osterholm said. Even in the 2014-15 [Ebola] epidemic in West Africa, once public health programs and vaccination efforts were put into place, it brought about a rather rapid reduction of cases. Weve never encountered a situation where a geographic region becomes almost completely impossible to work in because of insecurity. If a way isnt found quickly to bend the outbreak trajectory, an explosion of cases will follow, Farrar, from the Wellcome Trust, predicted. I think at the moment its in a phase where it could expand out of control very easily. Or were on the cusp of that already, he said, suggesting cases could soon rise by 30 or 40 a day as opposed to the current 15 to 20. Farrar and others warned that official numbers likely dont capture the true picture of the outbreak at this point, because the response teams ability to move about and conduct surveillance in the affected areas is limited and frequently interrupted. The International Rescue Committee, one of the partners in the response, is working on the assumption that the true number of new cases every day is already double what the official figures show, said Bob Kitchen, vice president for emergencies and humanitarian action, who was recently in the outbreak zone to assess the state of affairs. In January and February it appeared that control measures were beginning to have an impact. The number of new cases being diagnosed daily was starting to decline and it looked like the outbreak might be coming under control. But in late February, fire-bombings at the Ebola treatment centers at Katwa and Butembo marked a tipping point, with Ebola control operations and staff coming under regular attack ever since. Each violent event forces a temporary slowdown of control operations. Last Thursday teams vaccinated nearly 1,000 people in one day a record. On Saturday, they werent able to vaccinate anyone in Butembo, because it was too unsafe for them to move about, Ryan said. That interrupted access, three days of access, then two days without access you cant run an effective public health operation that requires daily follow up, daily vaccination, daily contact with families, he said. Kitchens organization has a lead role on promoting proper infection control in hospitals and public spaces things like teaching clinics about the dangers of re-using needle, which is thought to be one of the drivers for transmission in this outbreak. About a quarter of the cases have contracted Ebola in a health-care setting; this mode of transmission accounts for the extraordinarily large number of infections among young children more than 400 cases in this epidemic. Read more: WHO stops short of declaring Ebola crisis a global health emergency Because of the violence, all but two of IRCs international staff have been pulled back to Goma, a regional hub that is about eight hours drive south of the major outbreak zone. To date the virus hasnt moved into Goma, though the fear of that possibility haunts the outbreak responders. Community anger at the Ebola response workers is just running too high in Butembo and Katwa, where opposition politicians and others have insisted Ebola isnt real or is a disease outsiders brought to the area. All the guesthouses, all the hotels, all the health facilities the government has placed security outside, Kitchen said, arguing that being guarded by Congolese soldiers actually increases the risk for international staff in this part of the country, which has been at odds with the central government for decades. Youre just waving a flag. Were over here. Overcoming the resistance is proving to be extraordinarily challenging. The people of Butembo and Katwa are highly suspicious of outsiders, Ryan and others said. So suspicious, in fact, that their definition of outsiders includes people from Beni, a city about 36 miles north that was the hotspot for Ebola transmission last autumn. Some of the organizations brought in workers from Beni thinking it would help with containment efforts, but they were not accepted. Butembo is just this sort of enclave. So anyone from outside of Butembo and Katwa are seen as outsiders and are distrusted, Kitchen said. The IRC is working through what conditions on the ground would have to look like before it felt safe redeploying more international workers to the hot zone. But if attacks continue, yes, I do foresee having to withdraw our expats and manage remotely as best we can, he added. Read more: The private sector is working to fight climate change. Why isnt it doing the same to improve global health? Farrar warned that the best-case scenario likely involves this outbreak dragging on for months. We will still be having these conversations throughout 2019, he said. Worst-case scenarios stray into unthinkable territory. Once you lose control the numbers just go up and up and up. And then you just cant follow everybody. And then its self perpetuating, really, he warned. Were not quite there yet, but were pretty close. Predicting the future is always stupid, Farrar said flatly. But from where we are today to bring the epidemic under control is going to take a monumental effort. All of the interventions we have working at maximum efficiency and then a lot of luck. Two suspects are in custody after one student was killed and eight others were injured in a shooting Tuesday at a STEM school in suburban Denver, the Douglas County Sheriff's Department said. Here's what we know about the shooting: What happened? Two individuals walked inside STEM School Highlands Ranch and engaged with students in two separate locations, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. The Highlands Ranch school has more than 1,850 students ranging from kindergarten through 12th grades. School officials immediately contacted authorities once they were aware of the shooting. The school does not have a school resource officer, but there is a private security presence on campus. Spurlock said deputies arrived two minutes after they were notified and engaged with the suspects, who were taken into custody. More: 1 dead, 8 injured in shooting at Denver STEM school; 2 students in custody #stemshooting Sheriff says suspects 1 adult male, 1 juv male in custody. No other suspects. 8 students injured, several critical, area hospitals. No staff or officers injured. Working with DA to get search warrants for suspect car at school and suspects' homes. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 7, 2019 How many victims? One student, an 18-year-old male, was killed in the shooting incident, the Douglas County Sheriff's Department confirmed on Twitter. The sheriff's department confirmed that eight other people were injured, all students ages 15 and up. Two of the injured are in serious condition, two are in stable condition and one is in good condition, area hospitals said. Three of the injured have been discharged, Littleton Adventist Hospital spokeswoman Wendy Forbes told USA TODAY. It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in todays #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the student is stating its an 18 year old male. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 8, 2019 How many arrested? Story continues Two suspects are in custody, Spurlock said. One is an male juvenile and the other was identified by police as Devon Erickson, 18. The sheriff said both are students, and neither was injured. The investigation The crime scene will be managed by the FBI, ATF and Homeland Security. One handgun has been retrieved by the sheriff's department. There is a suspect vehicle in the school parking lot and the sheriff's department is working to obtain a search warrant for the suspect vehicles and home. #stemshooting Sheriff says suspects 1 adult male, 1 juv male in custody. No other suspects. 8 students injured, several critical, area hospitals. No staff or officers injured. Working with DA to get search warrants for suspect car at school and suspects' homes. DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 7, 2019 Contributing: Trevor Hughes, Kristin Lam and Mike James of USA TODAY This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: What we know about the Highlands Ranch STEM school shooting in Colorado MOSCOW, May 8 (Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Wednesday that Iran had been provoked into rolling back some of the terms of a 2015 nuclear deal due to external pressure which it blamed on the United States. Iran said earlier on Wednesday it had started scaling back parts of its commitments under the deal and threatened to do more if world powers did not protect it from U.S. sanctions, a year after Washington pulled out of the pact. "President (Putin) has repeatedly spoken of the consequences of unthought-out steps regarding Iran and by that I mean the decision taken by Washington (to quit the deal). Now we are seeing those consequences are starting to happen," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call. (Reporting by Tom Balmforth and Olesya Astakhova; Editing by Andrew Osborn) Ethereum (ETH) is currently trading at around $168 after a 6% drop over the last 24 hours. Negative news about Binances hack and Bitfinexs Tether insolvency issue has seen the cryptocurrency markets lose some momentum as bears have taken back control. By looking at volumes, it seems the mini-pump Ethereum was going through is coming to an end. If price returns to trade between the 50-day and 20-day EMAs, Im expecting ETH volume to drop significantly. In early April, Ethereums price went through the roof before a swift correction. As volumes show, traders are betting heavily on a price drop, way below the 50 and 20-day EMAs. Still, ETH is up about 15% since March, showing positive signs of a market recovery. If we see positive volume coming into Ethereum, the 200-day EMA may become a new support level. If not, we can expect ETH to bounce off the 50-day EMA before touching the 200-day EMA again. If price follows the altcoins fundamentals, Ethereum should be OK. Ethereum news If Ethereum is to become Web 3.0, it must have a good number of developers working on the infrastructure. In the best case scenario, the altcoin should have a large number of developers working on its core protocol (Ethereum) in addition to a number of developers contributing code to Ethereums repositories. Fortunately, Ethereum gives us the best of both worlds as it is ahead of all cryptocurrencies in both categories. Research of developer activity from January 2018 to February 2019 conducted by Electric Capital shows that Ethereum is king in terms of developer activity, with better results than Bitcoin. It has the largest developer team in the crypto space. On top of infrastructure developments, Ethereum is also making huge changes that will affect both miners and investors. On February 28th 2019, Ethereum finally implemented the Constantinople hard fork which featured several improvements and changes to the core protocol. The most controversial change was the proposed shift from a Proof-of-Work (PoW) to a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) model. Story continues Constantinople introduces a proposed mining model change that not only reduces ETH supply in the market, but also makes the Ethereum network stronger. With a PoS implementation, we could see a greater incentive for ETH holders as well. The protocol implementation that will bring Casper (Ethereums PoS consensus mechanism) to life is currently being developed by two research projects: Casper the Friendly Finality Gadget (FFG) Casper the Friendly GHOST: Correct-by-Construction (CBC) The aim is to add a PoS system with the ability to shard, as in the ability to horizontally partition data within a database. More generally, the database is broken into little pieces called shards that when aggregated together form the original database. In Ethereums case, the database is the main blockchain, and the shards are smaller blockchains (sidechains) connected to the main chain. If Ethereum continues to develop sidechain solutions around its main network, there could be limitless ways to scale. We should also remember Ethereum is currently the backbone of the DeFi movement (decentralised finance), which could help with future adoption. About Ethereum Ethereum was launched by Vitalik Buterin on 30th July 2015. He was a researcher and programmer working on Bitcoin Magazine and he initially wrote a whitepaper in 2013 describing Ethereum. Buterin had proposed that Bitcoin needed a scripting language. He decided to develop a new platform with a more general scripting language when he couldnt get buy in to his proposal. More Ethereum news and information If you want to find out more information about Ethereum or cryptocurrencies in general, then use the search box at the top of this page. Heres an article to get you started: By Oliver Knight May 8, 2019 As with any investment, it pays to do some homework before you part with your money. The prices of cryptocurrencies are volatile and go up and down quickly. This page is not recommending a particular currency or whether you should invest or not. You may be interested in our range of cryptocurrency guides along with the latest cryptocurrency news. The post Latest Ethereum price and analysis (ETH to USD) appeared first on Coin Rivet. WASHINGTON (AP) The Latest on Congress and special counsel Robert Mueller's Russia report (all times local): 10:50 p.m. The House Judiciary Committee has voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. The vote Wednesday capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and President Donald Trump, who invoked executive privilege to block lawmakers from the full report on Robert Mueller's probe of Russian interference in the 2016 election. Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler of New York declared the action by Trump's Justice Department a clear new sign of the president's "blanket defiance" of Congress' constitutional rights to conduct oversight. Nadler said after the contempt vote, "We did not relish doing this, but we have no choice." But Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec says it was disappointing that members of Congress "have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics." __ 7:10 p.m. The House intelligence committee has subpoenaed the Justice Department for special counsel Robert Mueller's full, unredacted report and underlying evidence. The subpoena comes the same day that the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for not providing the same materials. The intelligence committee subpoena requires Barr to produce the documents by May 15. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff and the top Republican on the committee, California Rep. Devin Nunes, have asked for the unredacted Mueller report for several weeks. Schiff says in a statement that the Justice Department "has repeatedly failed to respond, refused to schedule any testimony, and provided no documents responsive to our legitimate and duly authorized oversight activities." __ 5:05 p.m. The chairman of the House Judiciary Committee says the panel's recommendation to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress will come before the full House for a vote soon. Story continues Democratic Rep. Jerrold Nadler of New York calls the committee's vote Wednesday a "grave and momentous step" as Congress battles the Trump administration for access to a full version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on the Trump-Russia probe. The panel voted along party lines. Ahead of voting, the White House invoked executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the seeing the full document. Nadler says Democrats on the committee "did not relish doing this" but "have no choice." He calls the executive privilege claim an "assertion of tyrannical power by the president" that "cannot stand." __ 5 p.m. The Justice Department says the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee has held a "politically motivated and unnecessary contempt vote." The statement comes after the committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with a subpoena. The panel sought a full, unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on the Russia probe and underlying investigative documents. Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec says it is disappointing that members of Congress "have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics." She says Barr made "extraordinary efforts" to provide Congress and the public with information about Mueller's work. The contempt resolution against Barr now moves to the full House. __ 4:30 p.m. The House Judiciary Committee has voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, escalating the legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Mueller's report. The committee voted 24-16 to hold Barr in contempt after the Justice Department rejected House Democrats' demands for the full Mueller report and the underlying evidence. Ahead of the vote, President Donald Trump asserted executive privilege over those materials and reserved the right to block them. The contempt resolution against Barr now moves to the full House. If it is approved, it would trigger a criminal referral to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, which would decide whether to prosecute. Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler said the panel had to act because Trump's stonewalling is creating a "constitutional crisis." __ 10:40 a.m. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler says President Donald Trump's assertion of executive privilege over special counsel Robert Mueller's report is a clear escalation of his administration's "blanket defiance" of Congress. Nadler made the comments ahead of a committee vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. The committee is moving to hold Barr in contempt after the Justice Department rejected House Democrats' demands for a fuller version of Mueller's report and other documents. Executive privilege is the president's power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. Asserting privilege would allow Trump to withhold the Mueller materials from Congress. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said Trump had to assert privilege due to Nadler's "blatant abuse of power." __ 10:35 a.m. The Justice Department says President Donald Trump has exerted executive privilege over the full Mueller report and other investigative records that had been subpoenaed by the House Judiciary Committee. Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd says Wednesday that the Justice Department is also ending its negotiations with the committee. Boyd says the committee's chairman, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, scheduled an "unnecessary contempt vote." Attorney General William Barr released a redacted version of Mueller's report to the public last month, but Democrats want to see the full document, along with underlying evidence. The Justice Department has rejected that demand, but allowed a handful of congressional leaders to view a less redacted version. __ 10:30 a.m. President Donald Trump is invoking executive privilege over special counsel Robert Mueller's unredacted report and other documents subpoenaed by the House Judiciary Committee. The claim would allow Trump to withhold those materials from Congress. The House Judiciary Committee is meeting to decide whether to vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for not turning over the full report and certain other materials. White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders says in a statement that: "Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney General's request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege." __ 8:50 a.m. House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler says there's a "constitutional crisis" over the Trump administration's refusal to provide Congress with a fuller copy of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on his Russia investigation. The New York Democrat told CNN on Wednesday the committee will move forward with a Wednesday morning vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with the panel's subpoena for a fuller copy. Talks between the Judiciary Committee and the Justice Department failed to reach an agreement Tuesday on releasing more of the report to a broader group of lawmakers on the Judiciary and Intelligence committees. The Justice Department indicated the White House might invoke executive privilege to block the release. Nadler told CNN the country faced "a constitutional crisis" because "the president is disobeying the law, is refusing all information to Congress." He said he had hoped the administration would change course ahead of Wednesday's scheduled vote. __ 12:38 a.m. The House Judiciary Committee is moving ahead with a vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress after last-minute negotiations stalled with the Justice Department over access to the full, unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report. Barr released a redacted version of Mueller's report to the public last month, but Democrats want to see the full document, along with underlying evidence. The Justice Department has rejected that demand, while allowing a handful of lawmakers to view a less redacted version. Staff members from the House Judiciary Committee met with Justice Department officials Tuesday afternoon and into the night without reaching a compromise. But the committee's chairman, New York congressman Jerrold Nadler, says a vote is still scheduled for Wednesday. HOUSTON (AP) In a story May 7 about a missing Houston girl, The Associated Press, relying on information provided by the police, misspelled the name of the man who told investigators that the girl had been abducted. His name is Derion Vence, not Darion Vence. The AP also reported that police referred to Vence as the girl's stepfather, but he wasn't. A spokesman for the girl's mother says she and Vence lived together and were engaged, but that she recently broke off the engagement. A corrected version of the story is below: The Latest: Police say man changed story about missing girl Police in a suburb of Houston say a Texas man who reported his girlfriend's 4-year-old daughter missing repeatedly changed his story during initial interviews. HOUSTON (AP) The Latest on the search for a 4-year-old girl who was reported missing in Houston (all times local): 7:30 p.m. Police in a suburb of Houston say a Texas man who reported his girlfriend's 4-year-old daughter missing Saturday repeatedly changed his story during initial interviews. Houston police say Derion Vence told investigators Maleah Davis was abducted more than 24-hours earlier by men in a pickup truck who knocked him out but then let him and his 2-year-old son go. But Vence was first interviewed by Sugar Land police, and a spokesman for that city's department says his account "changed several times." Houston police are leading the investigation. They say it is ongoing and that they don't identify "persons of interest or suspects unless charges are filed." A phone message requesting comment left at a number listed for Vence was not immediately returned. Sugar Land is about 22 miles (35 kilometers) southwest of Houston. ___ 2:30 p.m. A 4-year-old Houston girl who has been missing since her mother's boyfriend reported she was abducted had previously been removed from her home by state workers concerned about allegations of physical abuse. Story continues Officials with state Child Protective Services in Houston say Maleah Davis was removed from her home in August after she suffered a head injury and was then returned to the home in February. Her two brothers also were removed over that period. All three were placed with relatives. CPS caseworkers have been monitoring the home since the children were returned. Searchers have been looking for the girl since her mother's boyfriend, Derion Vence, reported Saturday that he pulled over Friday night to check a tire when the men pulled up behind them. Police say Vence said he was knocked unconscious and when he awoke the next day, Maleah was gone. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) The Latest on scandal surrounding Speaker Glen Casada's office (all times local): 3:30 p.m. Embattled House Speaker Glen Casada says he's asking for multiple probes of the scandals surrounding his office, saying he takes "complete ownership" of exchanging sexually explicit text messages with a former top aide about women. In a letter Wednesday, Casada said he wrote the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the District Attorneys General Conference asking them to investigate an email by his former Chief of Staff Cade Cothren. He also apologized for his own conduct. The investigation, he says, would probe whether Cothren tampered with evidence by making it look like a student activist had emailed Casada in violation of bond conditions after his February arrest during protests at Casada's office. Casada says he's confident the email wasn't forged. Casada also wrote that he has asked the House Ethics Committee to investigate Cothren's employment termination and his work with legislative administration to review personnel policies and consider possible drug testing of new employees. Cothren acknowledged drug use in a legislative office several years ago. ___ 1:45 p.m. A handful of Republican lawmakers are joining calls for House Speaker Glen Casada to resign from his top legislative leadership position. Casada has faced increased scrutiny on Wednesday after his top aide, Cade Cothren, stepped down Monday amid allegations he sent racist and sexually explicit text messages. Cothren also acknowledged using cocaine in his legislative office several years ago. Republican Rep. Jeremy Faison told The Associated Press he saw no way for Casada to be an effective leader. Speaker Pro Tempore Bill Dunn is Casada's immediate successor and told The Tennessean he agreed Casada should step down. Republican Gov. Bill Lee has declined to say if Casada should resign, but has described the recent events as disturbing and shouldn't be tolerated. WASHINGTON (AP) The Latest on congressional hearing on privacy agency (all times local): 12:20 p.m. Federal privacy regulators are getting a sympathetic hearing from Congress for their request for greater powers and funding to police privacy. Lawmakers from both parties are warning that fines against big companies may be inadequate to change their conduct. The Federal Trade Commission is negotiating a record fine to punish Facebook for alleged violations of users' privacy. But Rep. Jan Schakowsky, chairwoman of a House consumer protection subcommittee, says "a large fine in a single case does not solve the problems that consumers face." The Illinois Democrat spoke at a hearing Wednesday with the five members of the FTC. Schakowsky says the agency needs more funding and authority "at a minimum to restore consumers' confidence." The FTC also is considering a rare action to hold Facebook's CEO personally accountable. ___ 3:05 a.m. Federal privacy regulators are under scrutiny in Congress as they negotiate a record fine with Facebook to punish the company for alleged user-privacy violations. Eyes are on the Federal Trade Commission as it also considers a rare action holding CEO Mark Zuckerberg personally accountable for Facebook's failure to honor a 2011 agreement over privacy lapses. The agency also may limit how the giant social network targets advertising to its massive user base. Beyond a fine, which is expected to run as much as $5 billion, comprehensive action by the FTC could mark a watershed in government action against the tech industry to protect consumer privacy. FTC Chairman Joseph Simons and his four fellow commission members will appear before a House committee at a hearing Wednesday. BELFAST, Maine (AP) A company that wants to build a large, land-based salmon farm in coastal Maine has run into potential lease trouble, and opponents are hopeful it derails the project. Nordic Aquafarms plans to build the salmon farm in Belfast, where it would be capable of producing more than 60 million pounds of fish per year. The Bangor Daily News reports two groups that oppose the fish farm filed a brief recently objecting to the firm's application for a submerged lands lease. Upstream Watch and the Maine Lobstering Union say the Norwegian firm doesn't have sufficient right to cross the intertidal zone. Nordic strongly disagrees with the groups' characterization. The company's director of operations says the company is confident it will be granted a permit it needs to move forward. ___ Information from: Bangor Daily News, http://www.bangordailynews.com BEIRUT, May 8 (Reuters) - Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said the country's 2019 state budget represents the only opportunity to get out of the current situation, al-Manar television reported on Wednesday. Berri said government approval of the draft budget, which is now being discussed by the cabinet, would create confidence even before its approval in parliament, al-Manar reported. Lebanon has one of the world's highest debt burdens and low economic growth and the finance minister has said the budget includes wide spending reductions. (Reporting By Angus McDowall and Tom Perry Editing by Gareth Jones) Logo of jester cap with thought bubble with words 'Fool Transcripts' below it Image source: The Motley Fool. Livent Corporation (NYSE: LTHM) Q1 2019 Earnings Call May 8, 2019, 8:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Good morning and welcome to the First Quarter 2019 Earnings Release Conference Call for the Livent Corporation. Phone lines have been placed on listen-only mode throughout the conference. After the speakers' presentation, there will be a question-and-answer period. I will now turn the conference over to Mr. Rasmus Gerdeman, Chief Strategy and Investor Relations Officer for the Livent Corporation. Mr. Gerdeman, you may begin. Rasmus Gerdeman -- Chief Strategy and Investor Relations Officer Thank you, Carol. Good morning, everyone, and welcome to Livent Corporation's First Quarter Earnings Call. Joining me today are Paul Graves, President and Chief Executive Officer, Gilberto Antoniazzi, Chief Financial Officer. Paul will review our first quarter performance and discuss our second quarter and full-year outlook for 2019. Gilberto will then provide an overview of select financial results. The slide presentation that accompanies our results, along with our earnings release, which includes our 2019 outlook, are available on our website and the prepared remarks from today's discussion will be made available after the call. Tom Scherberger, our Chief Growth Officer, will then join Paul and Gilberto to address your questions. Additionally, we would ask that any question following our prepared remarks will be limited to two per caller. We would be happy to address any additional questions directly after the call. More From The Motley Fool Before we begin, I'd like to remind you that today's discussion will include forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning specific factors, including but not limited to those factors identified in our release and in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Information presented represents our best judgment based on today's information. Actual results may vary based upon these risks and uncertainties. Story continues Today's discussion will focus on adjusted earnings for all income statement and EPS references. A reconciliation of these terms, as well as other non-GAAP financial terms to which we may refer during today's conference call, are provided on our website. With that, I'll turn it over to Paul. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you, Rasmus, and good morning, everyone. Today, I will review Livent's 2019 first quarter results, followed by second quarter and full-year guidance. I will also review our perspective on current market conditions and how certain factors specific to our business have impacted our revised views on 2019 performance. After Gilberto reviews select financial data, I will conclude by providing an update on our ongoing capacity expansions of lithium carbonate in Argentina and lithium hydroxide in Bessemer City. Let me start with Q1 performance, starting on Slide 3. Our business performed largely as expected during the first quarter, with revenue, adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted EPS in line with our guidance range. Operationally, in Argentina, following heavy rains in late January, we ended up with approximately 1,000 tons of lost lithium carbonate production in the quarter. This was higher than we had previously expected, as a sustained period of unfavorable weather meant that it took longer than we had hoped for pump concentration levels to return to useable levels. However, once they did, we were immediately back to full operating rates and we continue to achieve daily production rates of carbonate that are at the top end of our historical range. This lost production had an impact on costs in the quarter, as we had to use more purchased carbonate to produce lithium hydroxide than originally planned. It will have a larger effect on Q2 costs, which I'll discuss shortly. We brought a third hydroxide line in China into production during the quarter, taking our total annual capacity in China to around 15,000 tons. We are already producing hydroxide from this line that is consistent with that produced in other lines. It is this ability to produce consistent product across multiple lines and locations that is helping us bring greater flexibility to our supply chains and enabling us to reliably supply customers across multiple regions. Turning to Slide 4, our adjusted EBITDA for the quarter was $27.6 million, in line with our guidance. Unfavorable customer mix in lithium hydroxide, lower year-over-year carbonate sales due to lower production volumes in Argentina, and higher year-over-year costs were the drivers of the reduction in adjusted EBITDA compared to Q1 2018. Before turning to Q2 and the 2019 outlook for Livent, Slide 5 provides an overview of the lithium market conditions that are most relevant to Livent, which will help frame both our Q2 and full-year guidance. As the large global auto OEMs continue to commit capital to and provide further detail on their next-generation electric vehicles, the need for batteries with higher nickel chemistries is becoming increasingly clear. This, in turn, is placing the challenge of meeting the higher performance and safety requirements onto the battery chain and especially onto the capital materials producers. In recent conversations with a few of our large, established cathode and battery customers, it is becoming increasingly clear that the current facilities being used to manufacture high-nickel cathodes will require additional investment in their processes to meet OEM demands. The result of making these investments is a delay in large-scale production of high-nickel chemistries across several of our customers. To offset the lower volumes of high-nickel cathodes and to improve short-term profitability during this transition, many of these established cathode manufacturers are increasing their production of older cathode chemistries. This has been further reinforced by the changes to incentive structures in China, which has created a window in 2019 for producers of these existing chemistries to delay the introduction of next-generation cathode materials. However, many of these older chemistries can't use either lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide. As a result of the lower performance requirements in these applications, higher performance lithium hydroxide, such as that sold by Livent, does not generate the same price premium as in high-nickel applications and, today, is priced relative to the lithium carbonate equivalent. This is consistent with pricing patterns we have seen in these applications historically. Following several spodumene mine start-ups in Australia, it is now clear that spodumene concentrate is in an oversupplied position over the near-term. This situation is particularly impactful in China, where the majority of the spodumene conversion facilities, as well as many of the consumers of lower-grade lithium carbonate, are located. As buyers of lithium carbonate see these lower spodumene prices, they are delaying purchases and, therefore, pushing the price of carbonate down. Today, published reports indicate that lithium carbonate prices in China are at the marginal cost of production for a non-integrated converter in China. Reports of recent stabilization of carbonate pricing in China support this view. These factors are resulting in weaker market conditions today. Let me now skip to review the longer term supply and demand indicators across our industry. The most important driver for the future demand of lithium hydroxide continues to be the broad adoption of electric vehicles. During the first quarter, two of the key indicators of EV adoption that we track continued to be positive. Global sales of passenger electric vehicles increased 58% as compared to the first quarter of 2018, for a total of 500,000 vehicles sold during the quarter. In China, sales of electric vehicles more than doubled versus Q1 2018 to 274,000 vehicles. We also track new model launches as a leading indicator of future demand. Today, we see a path toward a significantly higher level of new model launches, with an increase in launches now slated from late 2020 onwards. The majority of these newer electric vehicles will use larger batteries, typically 60 kilowatts or higher, and with stated ranges that confirm the need for higher energy density batteries. During the past few quarters, based on discussions with research facilities, battery manufacturers, and auto OEMs, it has become increasingly clear to us that the solutions capable of delivering these higher energy density batteries will involve higher nickel chemistries, whether that is NCA or NCM-based. These chemistries are expected to become the backbone of the next generation of electric vehicles. Also supporting Livent's long-term view and strategy are the increasing technical and quality requirements by cathode manufacturers from their lithium hydroxide suppliers for these high-nickel chemistries. The specific requirements for high-performance lithium hydroxide are already tightening significantly and we are seeing longer and more challenging qualification processes from customers. Finally, let me share what we are seeing in terms of production across the industry, as well as new supply additions. If we start with the producers currently in operation, we estimate, based on public announcements, that more than 15,000 tons of lithium carbonate production has been removed from estimates of South American brine-based production in 2019. This underscores that the lowest cost producers today have limited ability to rapidly increase volumes in the short term. This means that any short-term increase in supply must come from higher cost, hard rock sources. With respect to the development of new resources, we have seen a number of projects announcing significant delays to their development timelines, with technical challenges, cost overruns, and lack of available financing as the primary causes. Many of these new projects need a long-run lithium carbonate price above today's levels to be economically viable once financing costs and reinvestment economics are taken into account. We would expect that while current market conditions persist, these types of delays will become increasingly common. With this as background, let me discuss our second quarter outlook on Slide 6. For the second quarter, we expect revenue of $105 million to $115 million, roughly flat at the midpoint compared with last year. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the $26 million to $30 million range. At a high level, we expect our second quarter financial performance to be broadly similar to the first quarter. Let me walk you through the details on our adjusted EBITDA guidance as set out on Slide 7. We will have higher lithium hydroxide volumes available from the third line in China. However, the benefits of this relative to the same period a year ago will be offset by lower carbonate sales, negative customer mix, and higher operating costs. With regard to customer mix, just as in the first quarter, one large lithium hydroxide contract that has been in place for several years and has a much lower price than any of our other contracts is driving this mix effect during the quarter. This customer continues to seek the delivery of more of its committed volumes from Livent in the first half of the year. We now estimate that this customer will have received roughly two-thirds of its 2019 contracted volumes by the end of the second quarter. This pattern of delivering more volumes in the first half of the year is different to what we have seen historically from this customer. I stated earlier that some of our contracted lithium hydroxide customers are delaying their purchases of hydroxide from us as they suspend production of their high-nickel cathode materials while they make additional investments in their existing processes. This delay means that we will have excess hydroxide volumes available in the quarter that will not be sold under existing contracts and will instead likely be sold under shorter term arrangements, primarily in China. Unlike the rest of the world, the China market remains largely a short-term market for such lithium products, with prices set on a monthly or quarterly basis. Furthermore, much of the demand for hydroxide in China today is driven by lower performance cathodes, especially LFP. Consequently, we expect that these sales into China in the quarter will be at prices that are lower than those achieved in the rest of the world today. With regard to operating costs, we will have certain non-recurring costs which are due to the impact of the rain in Argentina. One of the consequences of this lost production is the disruption to our supply chain. We do not carry excess lithium carbonate inventories at our hydroxide facilities, meaning that we risk having insufficient carbonate to meet our production needs. In China, this means we will incur additional costs from procuring third-party material to feed the new hydroxide line. In the U.S., we will incur costs to air freight carbonate from Argentina to Bessemer City. The final cost related to the lost production are the manufacturing variances that arise from not operating for three weeks. The fixed costs of operating in Argentina while not producing are carried forward and hit the income statement a few months later. In aggregate, the costs in the quarter related to this lost production will be approximately $6 million, with higher VAT and raw material costs making up the remainder of the increase in costs compared to last year. Now, let me address our updated outlook for the full-year 2019 on Slide 8. We now expect full-year revenue of $435 million to $475 million, essentially flat with 2018. Adjusted EBITDA will be between $125 million and $145 million, reflecting lower average realized prices for lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate, as well as higher operating costs. Adjusted EPS is now expected to be in the range of $0.56 to $0.66. To help explain our revised guidance, let me first provide more detail on our expected 2019 production plan, as set out on Slide 9. Based on the reduced demand for our high-performance lithium compounds from a number of our larger customers, we have reduced our forecast for full-year production and sales of lithium hydroxide by approximately 2,000 tons. Livent's 2019 internal carbonate production is expected to be in the range of 17,000 to 18,000 tons, slightly less than we expected three months ago due to the previously mentioned January rain event. We remain committed to sell up to 3,000 tons of carbonate to existing customers, which means we expect to purchase up to 3,000 tons of carbonate from third parties in order to meet our sales commitments. As a reminder, the lithium chloride on this chart is sold in the form of either butyllithium or high-purity lithium metal. Now, on Slide 10, let me explain in more detail the main factors driving the reduction to 2019 adjusted EBITDA as compared to 2018. As I just set out, we expect our overall volumes for the year to be slightly higher than last year. This year, we'll be seeing a higher hydroxide and butyllithium sales offset by lower lithium carbonate sales. Higher average price realizations in butyllithium and high-purity metal will be more than offset by lower average realized prices for both lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide. We expect our average realized price for carbonate to be around $4.00 per kilo lower in 2019 compared to 2018, and for hydroxide, closer to $2.00 per kilo lower. The largest drivers of the hydroxide average price reduction are customer mix and lower sales prices on hydroxide sold under short-term arrangements in China. Foreign exchange will be a headwind for 2019 as the RMB and the Euro impact us at the revenue level and sterling and Argentine peso hit our costs. The largest contributors to our higher costs, though, are the impact of the rain in Argentina, which all hits us in the first half of the year, the VAT incurred on exports from China, and the higher cost of purchased carbonate compared to internal production. I will now turn the call over to Gilberto to discuss our financial results in more detail, as well as to give an update on the financial implications of our current capacity expansions. Gilberto Antoniazzi -- Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Paul, and good morning, everyone. Let me start today by first highlighting the completion of Livent's spinoff process. On March 1st, FMC Corporation distributed the remaining 85% interest it held in Livent via the spin of 123 million shares to FMC shareholders. This last step completed Livent's separation from FMC, resulting in Livent's full independence as a publicly traded company. Before turning to Slide 11, a few comments on selected items off the income statement, specifically on taxes and interest expense. On taxes, driven by our revised forecast and its impact on the mix of earnings across various geographies, we have amended our guidance on adjusted tax rate for the full year to 18% to 22%, an increase of 100 basis points at the midpoint. On interest expense, despite Livent's strong cash flow generation, we will continue to draw on our revolver debt facility throughout the year. This borrowing is driven entirely by spending on our capacity expansions. Therefore, we are capitalizing the majority of the approximately $6 million of cash interest we will incur this year, consistent with normal accounting practices. Our guidance for interest expense in the income statement for the full year reflects this accounting treatment. Moving now to the balance sheet, cash flow, and capital spending. With respect to our balance sheet, we ended the quarter with $18 million in cash and $50 million drawn under our $400 million, five-year revolving credit facility. The $16 million increase in drawing versus the end of last quarter is largely due to capital spending but also reflects the timing of certain reimbursement payments we made to FMC during the first quarter. Livent generated adjusted cash from operations of $22 million during the first quarter of 2019, which was in line with expectations. Looking to the full year, we are now projecting $75 million to $105 million in adjusted cash from operations. On capital deployment, Livent remains committed to the four phases of lithium carbonate expansions in Argentina and to the first phase of lithium hydroxide expansion in Bessemer City, North Carolina. In the first quarter, we made progress toward meeting key milestones in the expansions, resulting in cash outlays of $25 million. In Argentina, our lithium carbonate expansion project continues to advance with roughly $20 million of cash spent through the end of March. Early into the second quarter, we are already beginning to see the expected acceleration of capital spend as we continue to meet our project milestones. Our forecast for capital spending in 2019 remains in the range of $235 million to $265 million. I'd like to provide further commentary on the economics of Livent's capital investment, particularly related to our carbonate expansion in Argentina. Unlike other projects which we have seen run into financing, technical, or investment return hurdles, our expansion remains a highly attractive investment that compares extremely favorably with every other lithium project globally. As I stated previously, Livent commands a substantial capital deployment project in Argentina during 2018 to increase lithium carbonate production by 40,000 metric tons, going from today's roughly 18,000 tons to almost 60,000 tons by 2025. Livent's capacity expansion project will be executed in four separate phases, each adding almost 10,000 tons, with the first phase reaching mechanical completion in the second half of next year. The total cost of the four phases of expansion is estimated at $600 million, or approximately $15,000 per metric ton of lithium carbonate. We expect that each phase will have a cash operating cost in the range of $4.00 per kilo of lithium carbonate produced, making it among the lowest cost sources of carbonate for the foreseeable future. From a technology standpoint, our carbonate expansion project will not involve any extraction or process in technologies. It will use the same process that we run today. The technical risk is therefore low, leaving us to focus on the project execution risks, which Paul will discuss in more detail shortly. To help explain why we consider this such an attractive investment, let me highlight what we expect from this expansion in terms of financial returns. At lithium carbonate prices in the high-single or low-double digit range, which is at the low end of what we are seeing in the market today, each 10,000-ton phase of our expansion would add $60 million to $70 million of EBITDA, starting in 2021. Therefore, even under a modeling assumption of carbonate prices remaining at levels similar to where they are today, the project as a whole will generate incremental EBITDA of $240 million or more per year. When you look at the range of independent estimates for future prices, this would suggest the risk to this EBITDA estimate is skewed to the upside. To further reinforce why we believe this is an attractive investment, upon completion of the 40,000-ton carbonate expansion, we would expect free cash flow conversion of this EBITDA of 70% to 75% after all taxes and all maintenance capital spending. And unlike hard rock projects, these economics are not impacted by mine life concerns, do not require changes to the operating costs over the life-of-mine as new areas are exploited, and do not have end-of-mine site remediation costs to consider. You can therefore understand why we would expect to see a very attractive return on our $600 million investment in our expansion in Argentina. Additionally, it's important the development of this is done in a way that is sustainable. Right now, the largest contributor to the carbon costs of EVs is the battery materials. And we already see the sustainability becoming an increasingly important factor in sourcing decisions across all battery models. An advantage of our brine-based source of lithium carbonate is that we have a smaller carbon footprint compared to many current approaches to producing lithium. Much of the energy we use is truly renewable. We use solar and wind-based evaporation in the production of our lithium carbonate. And while our resource is removed from end users, we do not ship and process rock or brine across long distances. In light of all of the above, we remain committed to completing our announced expansion in Argentina. With that, I will turn the call back over to Paul. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thank you, Gilberto. So, before we turn to your questions, I want to provide an update on the status of these expansions in the province of Catamarca in Argentina and in Bessemer City in the U.S. Livent's position in the lithium industry is built upon two key factors. First, our position as the lowest-cost producer globally of lithium carbonate and, second, our leadership in the production of high-performance lithium hydroxide that is qualified for use in the most demanding performance applications. It is therefore core to our future that we are able to grow our supply of both carbonate and hydroxide at the same rate as our customers' demand growth. On Slide 12, we've set out the major work streams related to our first phase carbonate capacity expansion in Argentina and the additional lithium hydroxide unit in Bessemer City. The first thing that you can see is that we remain on track and expect to bring both units online in the second half of 2020, with the carbonate expansion expected to be operating shortly ahead of the hydroxide unit. There are two main components of the Argentina expansion. The first is the infrastructure, which includes a new 31-kilometer water pipeline, roads, worker camps, various utilities, warehouses and buildings, as well as additional ponds. This phase includes most of the infrastructure needed for the subsequent lithium carbonate expansion phases. The second component is the lithium carbonate units. These will be constructed in modular form in China and shipped to Argentina once complete. These units are based on the same design as the carbonate production units we are using today, helping to simplify and de-risk the overall project. For the hydroxide expansion, we are also constructing modular production units in China. These will use the same design and engineering that we used to successfully install three hydroxide lines in China over the past few years. We remain confident in our progress, as all projects continue according to our plan. We have critical oversight of three key areas of execution risk to ensure the projects are completed in a timely manner. The first is the water pipeline, which is being constructed over challenging terrain and is required to operate the new carbonate units. The second is the shipping of the modules from China and, particularly, the process and timing of getting the units into Argentina and then up to the Salar. And, finally, the customer qualification period that follows commissioning for both carbonate and hydroxide. Our customers are increasingly tightening their requirements. There is less visibility today as to how long this process might take 18 months from now. However, we are designing into our production the equipment that will be needed to provide materials that meet the requirements of the most demanding applications. We will continue to update you on our progress but I would like to reiterate that, today, we remain on track for these timelines and I'm confident in our ability to deliver these projects on time and on budget. I will now turn the call back to Rasmus for questions. Rasmus Gerdeman -- Chief Strategy and Investor Relations Officer Thank you, Paul. Carol, you can now begin the Q&A session. Questions and Answers: Operator Thank you. If you would like to ask a question at this time, please press "*1" on your telephone keypad. Please limit yourself to one question and one follow-up. If you have additional questions, you can jump back in the queue. To withdraw your question, please press "#". We'll pause for just a moment to compile the Q&A roster. Your first question comes from the line of Chris Kapsch from Loop Capital Markets. Please go ahead. Chris Kapsch -- Loop Capital Markets -- Analyst Yeah, good morning. My question is focused on, Paul, what you described as a transition period for the cathode manufacturers and their delay in transitioning to high-nickel metal chemistries. I guess the question is are you referring exclusively to 811? My follow-up really kind of depends on the answer to that because my sense is that the delay in adoption of 811 could be a multiple-year delay in terms of the introduction of those chemistries into EV platforms. But the context which you described made it sound like this transition is something that'll be over and done with in '19. So, if you could just elaborate on that dynamic, that would be helpful. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Sure, happy to. So, let me just step back a little. Your question is a good one but it necessarily simplifies the situation, I understand. I think the definition of high-nickel has tended to be described as NMC-811. That tends to be the simplification. But the reality is that, today, there are a number of technologies out there that are what I'll loosely call "borderline high-nickel." They are some form of 622 but in a form that requires hydroxide, for example. We have some that are -- and I know everyone uses different terms -- instead of 60% nickel, 70% nickel, somewhere between 622 and 811. We certainly see an increased focus on NCA in Korea and China, not just in Japan today, which is obviously a high-nickel chemistry as well. So, we're also seeing blends. And so I think it's fair to say that the initial introduction of the highest-performing cathode materials are not going to be used on their own for first implementation. We're likely to see 811 blended, for example, with 622 or even 532. So, I think it's a complicated transition that is more than just a step change from 532, skip 622, and go straight to 811. It's also not entirely sure whether it will all be NCM-based. We have NCA and also some alternative versions of NCA being developed by various producers. It is, without a doubt, a complex environment. What we do know, though, is that -- and this has really been rapidly accelerated in the last few months -- the OEMs themselves, as they've started to become clearer about their vehicle launches, are being much clearer now into the supply chain as to what performance characteristics they expect, both energy density and safety performance. And so we have seen, frankly, a little bit of a scrambling on some customers who thought that the delay would have been longer and have been taking their time to move over to high-nickel. We've seen others, as I just mentioned, who have been making high-nickel but realized what they're making today will not meet those tightened performance requirements of the OEMs. And we're seeing a real -- I've heard people call it an arms race for battery materials. There's a bit of an arms race now as to who can bring high-nickel performing, high-nickel cathode materials into the chain the quickest. There is certainly likely to be a first-mover advantage in that process. I think 811 itself -- pure 811 -- we shared the broad view, and have for a while, that it's likely to be 2021 or maybe even 2022 before we see wide-scale adoption of pure 811 in the OEM chain. But we do expect to see some hybrids, maybe some single-crystal 622 or seven/one-and-a-half/one-and-a-half, whatever it's called by each producer, to sort of fill the gap between now and then. Chris Kapsch -- Loop Capital Markets -- Analyst Okay, that's helpful. The follow-up is then the performance advantage that you've described with your high-quality hydroxide, is that exclusively an advantage when deployed in 811 chemistries? Or do you feel like you have that advantage when deployed in some of these hybrids, whether it's 622 or another variant that you alluded to? Thank you. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer There's two sources of our advantage. I just want to make sure that I explain them both clearly. We certainly can demonstrate an advantage in the results of producing high-nickel content cathode materials with our hydroxide compared to many of our competitors. That's certainly most proven in NCA technology. We can demonstrate that in an 811 technology too, and to a lesser extent but still there, in 622 technologies as well. But I would just bear in mind that the second advantage that we have, which is a different one and it's certainly one that allows us in the short-term to have an advantage in our conversations with customers, is our ability to actually meet the production specifications and technical requirements of the customers. And they are two different things, two different sources of advantage, if you will, that we sell to customers. Now, I will be frank with everybody. Not every customer has yet necessarily what I'll call loosely "bought in" to some of those arguments. They continue to test different hydroxide materials. They continue to blend different hydroxide materials. They continue to make changes to the physical properties before they use it in their processes. They're all searching for performance of the hydroxide materials in their own processes that actually work. We continue to work our way through that and we continue to do our own testing, provide data, and support the arguments to these customers as they transition. Operator Our next question comes from the line of Kevin McCarthy from Vertical Research Partners. Please go ahead. Kevin McCarthy -- Vertical Research Partners -- Analyst Good morning. Paul, has your view of global electric vehicle demand in 2019 changed at all? And, if so, how? Maybe you can talk through the change in subsidy regime and what you anticipate downstream in China and elsewhere. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Sure. I don't think our view has changed much at all. I mean, historically, over the last few years, what we've seen is that we've tended to underestimate the adoption rates around the world. There is no doubt that there's a bit of a step back and a pause, looking at what will, frankly, the China market be in 2019 and into 2020 because most of these launches of the next-generation high-performing vehicles really don't come until the end of 2020. So, people quite rightly and understandably are looking at the subsidy regime in China. And I think it's fair to say that we perhaps will continue to see an extended period of use of older cathode chemistries in smaller, shorter range vehicles that are suitable largely for the China market in 2019 and maybe part of 2020. That doesn't mean there won't be major launches of vehicles using higher nickel chemistries and using next-generation batteries but we don't expect them to be the bulk of the volume in '19 and '20. Much of the shift that we saw, frankly, in the demand for lithium hydroxide in China and this comment about a shift back to LFP, which certainly seems to be taking on an extended life, is linked to Chinese subsidies but is more around e-buses and commercial applications than it is necessarily around passenger vehicles. And I think, frankly, one aspect of the China subsidies when they came in, while they were largely what we expected, one area that we did fail to spot was the incentive it gave at the regional level to continue to incentivize e-bus adoption and what that would do to provide incentives for cathode material producers to reinvest and continue to invest in LFP and lower-grade NCM. That one, I will admit, caught us out a little bit. And I think that the resurgence of LFP looks like it's here for a few years to come, really driven by commercial and e-buses rather than passenger vehicles. Kevin McCarthy -- Vertical Research Partners -- Analyst Okay. That's helpful. And then as a second question, I was wondering if you could help me reconcile your assertion that the need for high-nickel cathodes is increasingly clear with the short-term dynamic whereby your customers are deferring launches and you're experiencing diminished demand for high-grade hydroxide into high-nickel cathodes. Maybe you can provide an example or two on how your conversations with customers have evolved and what do you think is driving this decision. I think you mentioned additional investment is required. So, maybe provide some color around that concept, if you would. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Sure, I'm happy to. Look, there was a big shift in China, particularly -- mainly in China -- of companies building capabilities to make high-nickel content cathode materials. And we've been through the plants, we've seen the factories, we've seen that they can make it. But what they've seen and what they've increasingly realized and have actually been specifically told as they've attempted to get their cathode materials qualified is that they don't actually perform at a level that's acceptable. And so the first thing that we see is the bad news is these guys are now saying I don't need to make any more of these cathode materials because I need to change my production processes and I need to do that in a way that I can actually reliably make cathode materials that perform in higher quantities with a greater degree of reliability as to the performance -- less variability in the performance characteristics. So, the bad news is that it slowed down as they make those changes to the processes. The good news is it is now clear what they're shooting for. And I think it's fair to say, in the past, they were not that clear as to what they were shooting for. We've had a couple of customers who, only four or five months ago, were setting out pretty clear demand patterns for us as to what their expected deliveries of hydroxide would be this year, turning around and saying we've got to back away because we just found out we have to make these changes and we expect to be up and running late 2019. But, as of today, we will likely not need as much lithium hydroxide in '19. So, I do understand it's a bit of a complex thing. Right? We're saying, good news, more high-nickel cathodes being demanded. Bad news is nobody's making them. And that is a temporary transitional process. It's likely to run us through '19 and into '20. But, again, I think it bodes well for the longer term but we've got to get there first. Kevin McCarthy -- Vertical Research Partners -- Analyst Thanks so much. Operator Your next question comes from the line of P.J. Juvekar from Citi. Please go ahead. P.J. Juvekar -- Citi -- Analyst Yes, hi. Good morning, Paul. How much of this weakness is related to the subsidy cuts, particularly? The reason I'm asking is we're trying to figure out what is structural and what is temporary. I mean, is the switch to LFP a temporary thing before we catch up with high-nickel batteries here? What's structural and what's sort of near term? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer I think there are multiple changes going on here that are impacting. I think the shift to LFP is not so much a shift, it's sort of an extended life of LFP that we're seeing. Clearly, LFP has been around a while and is well-proven, particularly in e-buses which have public on them. Nobody wants a bus bursting into flames, for example, with 40 or 50 passengers on it. I think the safety requirements as well as the lower performance requirements of those batteries means that we do expect that LFP is here for quite a long time. And some other similar chemistries are likely to be here for a while, where we've been seeing people talk about EV-grade LCO technologies, which has historically largely been just in your cellphones. And so I think people are looking to which part of the market in the long run will actually need these more expensive, higher-nickel cathode materials and which actually can survive and will survive on the older chemistries. We've generally guided out to about 2025, where something approaching about 30% to 40% of volume will be high-nickel but the rest of the vehicle batteries will be, at that point in time, still older chemistries. So, I don't think that's a fundamental structural change. I think what we have is uncertainty in timing of delivery of product, uncertainty of timing of qualification of product, and perhaps most challenging, frankly, as a whole, is uncertainty as to who will get there first and who will get there after all. We've spoken before about there's a large number of companies around the world attempting to solve this problem. What we've seen for sure, and one thing you can read through what's happening in the incentive policy in China, is the desire to have consolidation, to have the weaker players fall, and have winners in that process. And that's creating a lot of disturbance in the market in the short-term, P.J. P.J. Juvekar -- Citi -- Analyst Okay. Thank you for that. And, secondly, you mentioned some Chinese customers going through shorter term contracts. Are these smaller customers supplying to second tier and third tier automakers? Or is it big customers? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer I think the market in China has generally tended to prefer market-based pricing, however you define that -- quarterly, short-term, monthly, it kind of varies by product. I think we've seen them experiment in the last couple of years, particularly because the lithium hydroxide that they could use was in such short supply, experiment with locking up contracts. Some take-or-pays, which we have take-or-pays with Chinese customers that they are taking and they are paying with no changes to prices or volumes. But I think the market itself has tended to be -- and I think you heard me say before I do expect the China market supply and-demand dynamics to be different to the rest of the world. They prefer shorter-term purchasing. They have a regime in China that disincentivizes a way of exporting product back out of the country because of inability to reclaim VAT, etc. We do see different dynamics, more short-term nature, more transactional relationships in China. It isn't just with the smaller second and third tier guys. It's with the bigger guys too. P.J. Juvekar -- Citi -- Analyst Okay. Thank you. Very helpful. Thanks. Operator Your next question comes from Robert Koort from Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead. Don Campbell -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Good morning. This is Don Campbell on for Bob. If I heard you correctly, you noted a $2,000 per ton drop in lithium hydroxide prices. I think last quarter, you noted 80% of volume was under contract with a firm price in 2019. So, does that imply a much more severe price impact for a small portion of your volumes or were you forced to take down some of your contract prices? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. We did not take down contract prices. I think it's an important point to make. What we have not done is seen customers taking sent volumes but at prices below what they'd committed to in the past. What essentially is happening, and the math around this is pretty straightforward, first of all, we lose a couple of thousand tons of lithium hydroxide, which was at meaningfully higher prices than our average realized price. If you recall, we talked before about our average realized price for '19 being -- approaching $1.00 or just less than $1.00 lower in '19 than in '18, all driven by customer mix. What we have now is, as we take 2,000 tons of higher priced product that we expected to sell away because the customers have given us indications they aren't likely to need it, we also have that 20% of uncontracted volume at pretty low prices. You see prices floating around in China and in some of the independent market research documents, they pretty much reflect what we see in the markets too. And so it's an averaging effect across this. Lost volume, which was at a higher price, plus the uncontracted business, which will be sold in lower-priced markets in China. Don Campbell -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Got it. That's helpful. And then I think you guys talked about $4.00 per kilo carbonate all-in costs. What is that cost structure for hydroxide? And, I guess, compared to spodumene or hard rock, with spodumene going cheaper, what is the comparison of your all-in costs to hydroxide compared to a non-integrated hard rock producer to lithium hydroxide? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer If you just take pure cash costs, from the work we've done -- and we don't have complete transparency, clearly, over every single unit -- size and scale of unit, quality of the spodumene feed stock, consistency of the feed stock, really all feed into the economics of a converter. But we would expect that there are a number of spodumene and carbonate converters that are capable, generally, of making either hydroxide or carbonate at roughly the same price. We've tended to see that somewhere in the $9.00 to $10.00 per kilo on a cash basis. That, again, ignores any margin for the converter or any reinvestment economics. And that assumes spodumene at about $600 a ton. So, there's a wide range around that and there will be wide ranges, even for individual units, as they produce from different feed stocks. And for the carbonate side, I think it's been pretty clear. We make carbonate at $4.00 or less per kilogram. We do have a cost to convert that into hydroxide but you should imagine that we certainly don't view ourselves as cost-uncompetitive in the production of hydroxide. Don Campbell -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Great. Thank you. Operator Your next question comes from Steve Byrne from Bank of America. Please go ahead. Steve Byrne -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Yes, thank you. I recall a quarter ago, when you were getting push back from some Chinese customers on price, you shifted more volume to Korea and Japan. I just wanted an update on those customers. Are they also taking less volume of hydroxide and/or are they also pushing back on price? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer The customers that we talked about who are indicating that they will need less volume are not all in China. There are a couple that are outside China too. So, this broad shift, this broad technology challenge and the attempt to solve the specifications challenges set by the OEMs is not unique to China by any stretch of the imagination. So, what we're seeing outside China, though, is push back on the volumes. It is not push back on price so much. And, frankly, it's a bit of a moot argument because many of them are saying I just don't need the amount of volumes that I thought I would need in 2019. I'm going to need it in 2020. So, the conversation, frankly, never really gets to price with them in that case. Steve Byrne -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Okay. And can you comment on your outlook for some homegrown capacity in China for its own conversion capacity or lithium resources within the country, either as brine of spodumene? Does that affect your decision-making on where you would build your next carbonate-to-hydroxide conversion capacity? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer I think there are -- it may not be quite the Holy Grail but it's not far off -- can anybody actually use the lithium resources that are actually in China? The hard rock resources tend to be remote and poor quality and the brine is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to process into battery-grade material simply because of the nature and the level of impurities in those brines. And we, as an industry, and certainly we, at Livent specifically, have spent a lot of time and effort seeing if we can find a solution to that, particularly with brine, and have been unable to do so. So, we don't see production from China-based resources being a particular factor in the development of industry in the foreseeable future. You can say that as the next three, four, or five years, whatever it may be. For us, I think the question that we will be asking with regard to our own capabilities is how regionalized will the market for lithium become. Do we need to make sure that we have capabilities to produce lithium hydroxide close to the customers? We mentioned earlier this concept of sustainability. It's a really important question for the EV value chain, which is how do we make sure that we are not essentially gaining on the fossil fuels that the cars consume but losing it on the construction of the vehicles themselves. And one of the challenges in the industry, in my view, that we have today is, as currently constructed, the industry tends to ship a lot of waste product around the world and that's been a pretty significant carbon footprint for lithium as a whole. We believe that the ability to locate conversion units -- carbonate conversion units, that is, not spodumene conversion units -- close to your customers actually brings a lot of advantages, not just sustainability but also flexibility, etc. And we certainly will take, and are taking, a long, hard look in the long run about where exactly do we locate our carbonate-to-hydroxide conversion capabilities. Steve Byrne -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Thank you. Operator Your next question comes from Christopher Parkinson from Credit Suisse. Please go ahead. Christopher Parkinson -- Credit Suisse -- Analyst Great. Thank you. You mentioned some less favorable or short-term pricing dynamics in China but can you just compare this to what you're still hearing, on a go-forward basis, from your customers in Japan and South Korea? Ultimately, how do you believe this evolves over the intermediate to long-term and do you believe any eventual consolidation of the supply chain will change this? Thank you. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer I think some of the dynamics that we've talked about, Chris, with regard to the supply chain really have not changed. In fact, I might argue that what you've actually seen is a couple of different factors at work. I think one of them is an increasing realization that there are many individual products -- sorry, resources -- that people are attempting to develop on their own using traditional financing methods. So, frankly, it's just not going to get done. And when you look at that, the better quality resources, you would think, are likely to be picked up by larger entities in the lithium industry. Whether that's just lithium players or new entrants is hard to say. We've seen, obviously, new entrants start to pop their head up in the last few days in our industry. It's hard for me to imagine that that trend is isolated to just a couple of companies. Whether, though, that will change the broader supply dynamics over the long term is a lot more difficult for me to say. Today, Japan, China, Korea, the U.S., Europe, they all have very specific characteristics that make them different enough that they're not all driven by the same forces and processes. I think, over time, they will all obviously migrate into who can actually capture the value in the battery chain through technology and through production of the best quality and highest performing batteries. Once we go down that path and we see the rate of EV adoption that we've talked about in the past, this demand curve, this demand acceleration isn't going to slow down. And I think the bigger factor that's going to drive behavior in the market is, frankly, whether the supply can keep up in the long run. We certainly see it demonstrate, in a soft year, like 2019, for demand, that the supply is there. But it's a different question when we see demand going up to 600,000, 1 million, 2 million tons over the coming decade. I don't know whether, in fact, consolidation is going to be needed to actually provide the capital to actually create that amount of lithium for the market. Christopher Parkinson -- Credit Suisse -- Analyst That's probably a good lead right into the second one. Can you also just update us on your willingness to do even longer-term contracts, similar to some of your peers? You've alluded to some reluctance to do this, go that far into the future, but can you just give us an update on your thought process and hit on what you're hearing from your customers and just parallel that with what we've seen from the OEMs? Thank you. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. You hit the crux of one of the challenges of our industry there, Chris. How will the supply chain evolve and who will contract for product and who will be setting the pricing, etc.? I think it's fair to say that we continue to see a huge advantage for the technology leaders to secure reliable supply of lithium hydroxide. That means that they're going to have to answer that question for themselves as to how they do that. Clearly, one part of that solution, we would hope, would be longer term contracts, take-or-pay, at fixed prices. They may layer their supply chains. They may have multiple sources. I doubt it will end up as a single model. I think when you have a fully integrated player, we have an incentive, clearly, to secure both volumes and price. If you're non-integrated and you're exposed to spodumene prices, if you can, for example, index your purchase of spodumene to an index of lithium prices, you have less of an incentive to fix the price. So, I think the dynamics of the supply side are an important factor, as indeed are the preferences of the buyers, when it comes to long-term contracts. Christopher Parkinson -- Credit Suisse -- Analyst Great. Thank you. Operator Our next question comes from Aleksey Yefremov from Instinet. Please go ahead. Aleksey Yefremov -- Nomura Instinet -- Analyst Thank you. Good morning, everyone. Paul, I just wanted to confirm that I heard you correctly. So, about 80% of your hydroxide business is still under the same price and the same contracts as at the beginning of the year. And, if that is correct, how would you assess maybe risks and opportunities for volume and price for that bucket that's under contract for the remainder of the year? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. You did hear that correct. It's 80% still under contract. It's obviously 80% now of a smaller number and we did lose some of that volume that was under contract. But that ratio is roughly the same still. I think it's fair to say that we see, for the rest of the year, under existing contracts, we see minimal, if any, price risks. A small price risk. There's always a little but not meaningful. But we see, obviously, volume risk. I mean, we don't know yet whether our customers themselves, frankly, fully understand what they need for the rest of the year yet and some of them continue to work through their own plans. I think a more rapid resolution of manufacturing or a slower resolution of manufacturing issues at our customers will have an impact more on volume than it will on price for us. I think, generally speaking, for the piece that's uncontracted, there is clearly still price risk out there in the market, I think. You may have noticed our full-year guide is not only a touch lower than it was before, it's also wider. The range is wider intentionally. We do see, today at least, that we are looking at a range of performance for this year and not a midpoint that we would typically look to. And that really reflects the fact that it is still an uncertain market. We have seen short-term markets in China go up and down very quickly and it's not easy to predict. We've done our best to capture all of that in the guidance range but I think it would be somewhat inconsistent of me to say that, all of sudden, now we have perfect predictability on what pricing is going to do through the rest of the year. Aleksey Yefremov -- Nomura Instinet -- Analyst Understood. Thank you, Paul. And given some uncertainty with hydroxide demand, I mean, you have several hydroxide expansion projects, right? Is there maybe an opportunity to reassess the timelines for those? Either Bessemer City -- that may be more under way already -- but subsequent expansions as well. Do you have that ability to delay those expansions if you can't sign the contracts that you like? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah, that's a good question there. An important one. I think if you read between the lines of what we said in our script, we only talked about one expansion in hydroxide right now. We have only one expansion in hydroxide under way at Bessemer City. It's an important one because it brings a lot more flexibility to our cost structure. It removes a lot of the requirement that we have today to export out of China and incur that VAT cost, etc. It's also a lower cost production, actually, than in China. Once we're running at BC, the unit cost is lower than in China even though the capital cost is meaningfully higher. We do not, today, have any plans, specific plans, for a fourth line or more in China, nor for a third line in Bessemer City. We will revisit those only when we have sufficient visibility as to what the demand for our specific offering is. Aleksey Yefremov -- Nomura Instinet -- Analyst Thank you. Operator Your next question comes from the line of Alex Falco from HSBC. Please go ahead. Alexander Falco -- HSBC -- Analyst Thank you and good morning. I have two questions. One regarding your strategy on selling your uncontracted volumes in China. Is that something that you had no choice but selling? It's a buyer's market and it is what it is? And second is given that you estimate that you're going to sell more there, why the increase in the VAT taxes there? I just want to reconcile those. Thank you. Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Yeah. They're two different matters, right? We're taking down production of lithium hydroxide. That will largely be in our China units. The strategy -- and I'll put quotes around strategy -- of selling in China, it is frankly not something, when we get to this position, that we have a lot of choice over. Most of our customers outside China prefer to buy under contracts that they put in place at the start of the year. And so the industry as a whole, largely, for our product at least -- I won't speak for every lithium product -- is largely contracted for volumes for most of the rest of the year. So, placing product into other places requires a change to the positive in the expectations of customers outside China if we're going to do that. And that's not what we're seeing at the moment. So, we really don't have a lot of choice. The market for short-term placement of product is the China market. We will obviously keep exploring other areas that offer a better return for us. The increase in VAT is frankly commitments that we've already made outside China to supply lithium hydroxide that requires us to export. We aren't exporting more volumes than we expected at the beginning of the year. Our export volumes are roughly the same, maybe a touch lower. Not much. So, the VAT impact is really reflecting the full-year plan, not just a shift in production that we're talking about today. Alexander Falco -- HSBC -- Analyst Perfect. Thank you. Operator Your last question comes from the line of Joel Jackson from BMO Capital Markets. Please go ahead. Joel Jackson -- BMO Capital Markets -- Analyst Hi. Good morning, Paul. A couple questions. So, some of this has been answered, and it's a bit of an open-ended question, but with what's transpired the last few quarters -- you do speak about a shift and a delay in what you think will happen -- but do the events of the last few quarters really lead you to reconsider all of your underlying assumptions, as you plan out your strategy around product mix, customer mix, and your expansion plans? I mean, there's a lot of questions being raised here about the commoditization of hydroxide, the commoditization of your own hydroxide, the trajectory that you've spoken a lot about of more nickel-rich capital customers, a seize in chemistries, the rebound in LFP, and even just how secure your contract terms and customers are. So, I'm basically asking you do you really need to reassess how you view the world, what you're planning to do, what you're planning to invest in, and the timing of it all? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Thanks, Joel. That's such a broad question, I'm glad we kept the line open for a few extra minutes for you, Joel. Look, I think the short answer is yes. Let's step back a little. I think it's clear to us -- and we have customers today who are taking advantage of this lower price and are clearly not trying to help the lithium industry any more than they have to. They have their own costs to think about. Who are explicitly saying this is going to rebound on us. This is going to cause problems. Because it's clear, with prices where they are today and with buying patterns as they are today, a lot of people are going to think long and hard about their investment plans. And this is going to come and catch us in a couple years because today is when the investments are needed to meet the supply that we know we're going to need in a few years' time. So, I think, for us, it creates a challenging strategic question, which is what is the right place to be in '21, '22, '23, and beyond, but how do we get there given the current market conditions and conditions that we expect to last, certainly, through '19? And as I sit here today, probably through the start of 2020 as a minimum. So, when you put all those together, we have to reassess where are we, what are we? I think it is fair to say that when you stand back and look at Livent's strengths, one of them is what I would loosely call an ever-present: it's the lowest-cost producer of lithium carbonate. A second one is maybe a little more difficult to rely upon all the time and that's the customer preference for our product over others. Our specialization, if you will. We think both of those are both real and sustainable but they carry different value at different points in time. And we have to stand back and look at what are we, Livent, going to do with our capital, with our contracting decisions, with our production decisions, over the next two years. Joel Jackson -- BMO Capital Markets -- Analyst Thank you for that. And my last question would be -- I'm pretty sure about a month or two ago, when you were in Switzerland -- I think it was Switzerland -- you were commenting and talking about maybe looking at getting into or investing in some spodumene, hard rock assets, maybe some brine assets, but hard rock assets, Now, Gilberto came out today and has really touted the benefits of brine over spodumene. Can you reconcile those buckets of commentary, please? Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Sure. I'm not sure whether you heard me or whether you just saw the reporting of my comments. My comments in Switzerland were, frankly, saying we vastly prefer brine. Most of our approaches today involved brine-based resources and brine-based technologies. We do spend, perhaps, as much time and effort on brine-based extraction technologies that would allow us to either extract more lithium from existing resources or tap into resources that, today, aren't economical because of technology challenges. Our first choice by a mile remains brine. It's what we know, it's what we do, it's the lowest-cost production source, typically, and it does carry these environmental and sustainable advantages when done right. What I did say at the conference, though, was the reality is, in the near term, we don't have a lot of visibility over a game-changing expansion in our capability based on brine. We just don't. Argentina can only go so far. Tapping into another resource near those in Argentina runs into the same issues. There are infrastructure issues that stop us, not resource issues. And so when you do that, you have no choice, if you believe it's important to grow, if you believe it's important to expand at a pace at least in line with the industry, at least in line with what your customers demand of you, you have no choice but to look at hard rock. You have no choice. So, that was really the heart of my comment and I don't think it's inconsistent with what we just described. I think what Gilberto was really trying to describe was why, despite the market conditions we see today, and while we recognize a number of people are asking the question, "Does it still make sense to invest in Argentina in these conditions in this environment?" We were trying to set out all the reasons why, emphatically, yes, it absolutely makes sense to continue to invest in Argentina. Joel Jackson -- BMO Capital Markets -- Analyst Thanks, Paul. Rasmus Gerdeman -- Chief Strategy and Investor Relations Officer Thank you. That's all the time we have for the call today. I'm available following the call to address any additional questions you may have. Thank you and have a good day. Operator That is all the time that we have today. This concludes the Livent Corporation First Quarter 2019 Earnings Release Conference Call. Thank you for attending. Duration: 68 minutes Call participants: Rasmus Gerdeman -- Chief Strategy and Investor Relations Officer Paul Graves -- President and Chief Executive Officer Gilberto Antoniazzi -- Chief Financial Officer Chris Kapsch -- Loop Capital Markets -- Analyst Kevin McCarthy -- Vertical Research Partners -- Analyst P.J. Juvekar -- Citi -- Analyst Don Campbell -- Goldman Sachs -- Analyst Steve Byrne -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Christopher Parkinson -- Credit Suisse -- Analyst Aleksey Yefremov -- Nomura Instinet -- Analyst Alexander Falco -- HSBC -- Analyst Joel Jackson -- BMO Capital Markets -- Analyst More LTHM analysis This article is a transcript of this conference call produced for The Motley Fool. While we strive for our Foolish Best, there may be errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in this transcript. As with all our articles, The Motley Fool does not assume any responsibility for your use of this content, and we strongly encourage you to do your own research, including listening to the call yourself and reading the company's SEC filings. Please see our Terms and Conditions for additional details, including our Obligatory Capitalized Disclaimers of Liability. More From The Motley Fool Motley Fool Transcription has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. WhatsApp is set to expand in London. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration Facebook has chosen London as its HQ for a new WhatsApp payment service, with dozens of new roles set to be created in the capital. The move is a significant win for the UKs fintech scene which is hoping to monetise WhatsApps 1.5 billion users worldwide. Were eager to work with some of the best technical and operational experts in both London and Dublin to take WhatsApp into its second decade, Matt Idema, WhatsApps chief operating officer, told Yahoo Finance UK. WhatsApp is a truly global service and these teams will help us provide WhatsApp payments and other great features for our users everywhere. A new team of around 100 software engineers in London and Dublin will see WhatsApps staff grow by a quarter, according to the Financial Times. It is believed to only have around 400 staff overall at present, despite its size. Facebook is said to have picked the UKs multicultural capital because it attracts many professionals from countries around the world where WhatsApp has some of its biggest customer base, such as India. READ MORE: European investment in UK tech hits record high The companys chief executive Mark Zuckerberg has said WhatsApps move into facilitating payments via the app will be rolled out in several countries this year. Recruitment has already begun, with senior engineers who were among WhatsApps founders reportedly sent to London last year to begin the search for talent. It comes as new data shows investment in the UKs tech scene holding up, despite a year of huge uncertainty over Brexits impact on Britains economy. European investment in UK tech firms even hit a record high last year, with funds based in the EU piling 1.89bn into Britains tech sector in 2018. The research, by law firm Penningtons Manches, showed 70% of investment was in firms based in the so-called Golden Triangle of London, Oxford and Cambridge. READ MORE: Europes fastest-growing countries in 2019 Photo: Deanna J/Unsplash If you're a fan of the arts, mark your calendars: there's plenty to do when it comes to artsy events in Los Angeles this week, from an art gallery reception to a painting class. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Artists of Blur 2019 Opening Reception at Gnomon Gallery From the event description: The Gnomon Gallery is proud to host "Artists of Blur," a collection of personal artistic explorations and passion projects that offers a glimpse into the minds of the artists of Blur Studio. Spanning numerous topics and artistic mediums, the show highlights the creative talents behind the award-winning visual effects, animation and design company. When: Saturday, May 11, 8-10:30 p.m. Where: Gnomon Gallery, 1015 N. Cahuenga Blvd. Price: Free Click here for more details, and to get your tickets Two Bit Circus: Interactive Game Shows From the event description: Play elbow to elbow with your friends at Two Bit Circus. Step backstage into Club01, a unique laughter-powered, tech enhanced interactive stage show where you don't just see the show, you are the show. Join us for the whiskey tasting show where you and 90 other friends will test your mettle through four rounds of tasting and interactive fun. Before or after, be sure to hit the arcade, enjoy treats and custom cocktails made by robots. When: Wednesday, May 8, 8:30 p.m. Where: Two Bit Circus, 634 Mateo St. Price: $15 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets 'Spring Awakening' From the event description: A teen-helmed production of the Tony Award-winning rock musical, "Spring Awakening," is set to open at the Stella Adler Theatre in Hollywood. The musical is based on Frank Wedekind's 1891 controversial play about teenagers trying to find their way in the world amid the angst of sexual discovery. Featuring music by Duncan Sheik and book and lyrics by Steven Sater, the original Broadway production received eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and was hailed by the New York Drama Critics Circle, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle as the Best Musical of the Year. Story continues When: Saturday, May 11, 2 p.m. Where: Stella Adler Academy of Acting and Theatre Complex, 6773 Hollywood Blvd. Price: $25 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets BYOB Paint Party with Wine and Cheese From The Art Room LA deal description: Snack on cheeses and sip wine while following step-by-step instructions from your painting teacher to complete a colorful work of art. Where: The Art Room LA, 3127 Glendale Blvd. Price: $28. More deals available. Click here for more details, and to score this deal This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. 233 E. First Ave. | Photos: Zumper Need a budget-friendly new spot? Though apartment hunting can be challenging, don't despair just yetthere are deals to be had. So what does the low-end rent on a rental in Italian Village look like these daysand what might you get for your money? According to Walk Score, the neighborhood has excellent walkability, is great for biking and has good transit options. It also features median rents for a one bedroom that hover around $1,333, compared to a $735 one-bedroom median for Columbus as a whole. A look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments in Italian Village, via rental site Zumper, paints a picture of what budget-minded apartment seekers can expect to find in this Columbus neighborhood. Read on for the cheapest listings available right now. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 638 N. High St. Listed at $895/month, this 525-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment, located at 638 N. High St., is 32.8 percent less than the $1,333/month median rent for a one bedroom in Italian Village. In the unit, expect to find air conditioning and in-unit laundry. Pet owners, inquire elsewhere: this spot doesn't allow cats or dogs. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. (See the complete listing here.) 664 Kerr St. Then there's this 800-square-foot with one bedroom and one bathroom at 664 Kerr St., listed at $1,050/month. Inside, you'll find hardwood floors, a dishwasher and cabinet space. Building amenities include assigned parking and outdoor space. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. (See the listing here.) 324 E. Second Ave. Check out this 527-square-foot studio at 324 E. Second Ave., listed at $1,070/month. In the unit, you're promised air conditioning, stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher and a balcony. Cats and dogs are not permitted. Story continues (Here's the listing.) 1020 N. High St. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom , situated at 1020 N. High St., is listed for $1,155/month for its 611 square feet of space. In the unit, you'll find air conditioning, a balcony, a fireplace, a dishwasher and in-unit laundry. The building features assigned parking. Cats and dogs are not allowed. (See the listing here.) 233 E. First Ave. And here's a one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 233 E. First Ave., which, with 623 square feet, is going for $1,195/month. In the apartment, you'll find high ceilings, air conditioning, hardwood flooring, a balcony, a walk-in closet, in-unit laundry and a dishwasher. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are permitted on this property. (Check out the listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. 1802 W. Diamond St. | Photos: Zumper Need a budget-friendly new spot? Though apartment hunting can be challenging, don't despair just yetthere are deals to be had. So what does the low-end pricing on a rental in North Central look like these daysand what might you get for your money? According to Walk Score's assessment, the neighborhood is friendly for those on foot, is quite bikeable and is a haven for transit riders. It also features median rents for a one bedroom that hover around $950, compared to a $1,500 one-bedroom median for Philadelphia as a whole. A look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments in North Central, via rental site Zumper, yields a look at what price-conscious apartment seekers can expect to find in this Philadelphia neighborhood. Take a look at the cheapest listings available right now, below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 1326 N. 15th St. Listed at $725/month, this studio, located at 1326 N. 15th St., is 9.4 percent less than the $800/month median rent for a studio in North Central. The unit boasts hardwood flooring. When it comes to building amenities, expect on-site laundry. Pets are not permitted. There's no leasing fee required for this rental. (See the complete listing here.) 1802 W. Diamond St. Here's a one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 1802 W. Diamond St., which, at 900 square feet, is going for $900/month. In the unit, expect to find air conditioning, a balcony, in-unit laundry and a dishwasher. Good news for animal lovers: both dogs and cats are welcome here. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. (See the full listing here.) 1434 Cecil B. Moore Ave. Then there's this 440-square-foot with one bedroom and one bathroom at 1434 Cecil B. Moore Ave., listed at $925/month. It's available August 1. Story continues In the unit, anticipate air conditioning, hardwood flooring and stainless steel appliances. Pets are not welcome. Amenities offered in the building include on-site laundry. There's no leasing fee required for this rental. (See the listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Lucas Moura celebrates for Tottenham (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images) Lucas Moura was the Tottenham hero on another night of Champions League drama as the Lillywhites reached the final for the first time in their history. Despite Ajax adding two more to their first leg lead, Mauricio Pochettinos team staged a remarkable second half comeback to seal an away goals victory following a 3-3. The result sets up an all-English clash in Madrid on June 1 following Liverpools win over Barcelona. AS IT HAPPENED: Ajax stunned after Spurs come back to reach Champions League final READ MORE: Toby Alderweireld: Tottenham 'left hearts on the pitch' in stunning Ajax comeback Ajax, not content with their first leg advantage, fired an early warning when Dusan Tadic forced a fine save from Hugo Lloris. Spurs were instantly punished from the resultant corner as Matthijs de Ligt leapt higher than the Tottenham defence to head past a static Lloris to give them the lead on the night. Tadic had the chance to extend the Ajax advantage on the half hour but his left-footed shot crept wide of the far post with Lloris beaten. The Dutch side didnt have to wait too long however as Hakim Ziyech made it 2-0 five minutes later, striking powerfully from just inside the area from Tadics clever pass. Devastated Ajax following the late drama in Amsterdam (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images) Spurs knew they needed to change their approach and went more direct in the second half. Tottenham finally found a breakthrough 10 minutes into the second half through Lucas Moura who slotted the ball past Onana after great work from Dele Alli. Four minutes later, the North Londoners were level on the night as Moura pounced again to finish excellently following Onanas point blank save from substitute Fernando Llorente. Spurs knew their luck was in as a drilled Ziyech shot came back off the post with 10 minutes on the clock. Following Liverpools win over Barcelona the previous night, another unbelievable comeback was complete as Moura sealed his hat-trick with a 95th minute winner to write his name into the history books. As the final whistle blew, Tottenham players and staff raced onto the pitch to celebrate the biggest victory in the clubs recent history. Story continues A tearful Pochettino embraced his players and will take his team to Spain looking to land Europes biggest prize for the first time the clubs history. Featured from our writers: With the blockbuster IPO of Uber Technologies (UBER) right around the corner, the gig-economy appears on a collision course with Wall Street. On Wednesday, Uber and Lyft (LYFT) drivers in major cities across the United States have gone on strike to demand better pay and benefits. The truth is, none of us can make a living doing this work this way, Lyft driver Nicole Moore told Yahoo Finances YFi PM. Theyre putting the squeeze on drivers while theyre making billions. Lyft raised an impressive $2.34 billion dollars from its IPO back in March. Uber is expected to raise up to $10 billion dollars ahead of its Friday trading debut, according to the Wall Street Journal. But the image of the ride hailing giants being flush with cash is more complicated than meets the eye. While Lyft brought in revenue of $776 million during the first quarter of 2019, it also reported a loss of $1.12 billion. Uber expects its first quarter financial losses to be at least $1 billion dollars, according to a recent filing with the SEC. Protesters hold a rally and stop traffic on Market Street outside of Uber headquarters Wednesday, May 8, 2019, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg) However, years of high growth for Uber and Lyft have drivers like Moore whos also an organizer for the protest group Rideshare Drivers United demanding better. A lot of us started driving many years ago and we could actually make a pretty good living. At this point though where were at, they go lower and lower in a race to the bottom on wages, she says. Lyft disputes the criticisms of driver pay, saying in a statement that hourly earnings have increased 7% over the last two years, and they have earned more than $14 billion on the Lyft platformOn average, Lyft drivers earn over $20 per hour. Uber strikes a similar tone, stating, We know that access to flexible, extra income makes a big difference for millions of people, and were constantly working to improve how we can best serve our driver community." Moore has no plans to give up the fight for her cause. Most of us, our only relationship to our job is on our phone, right? We have to break down that isolationWere building direct relationships with each other because were building an organization so that we have a voice. Nobody is listening to drivers. Story continues Time will tell if investors, company executives, and riders will hear them. Watch the video above for more. Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, SmartNews, LinkedIn, YouTube, and reddit. By Peter Nicholls WINDSOR, England, May 8 (Reuters) - Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan showed off their newborn son on Wednesday, describing having a baby as "magic." Cradling his son, wrapped in a white blanket and wearing a hat, Harry and Meghan appeared before a small group of media at St George's Hall in Windsor castle where they held their wedding reception just under a year ago. "It's magic - it's pretty amazing and I have the two best guys in the world so I am really happy," Meghan said when asked how she was finding being a new mother. She said the boy, the seventh-in-line to the British throne who has not yet been publicly named, had the sweetest temperament and was sleeping well. "He's just been a dream so it's been a special couple of days." The baby was born in the early hours of Monday morning, weighing 7 lb 3oz (3.26 kg), but few other details have been given about the birth. "It's great, parenting is amazing," Harry said. "It's only been two-and-a-half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy, to be able to spend some precious time with him as he slowly starts to grow up." The couple said they were about to visit 93-year-old Elizabeth, the world's longest-reigning monarch, at the castle to allow her to meet her eighth great-grandchild. Meghan's mother Doria Ragland is staying with the couple at their home Frogmore Cottage, on the castle's estate. "It will a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well," Meghan said. (Writing by Michael Holden and Guy Faulconbridge) By Peter Nicholls WINDSOR, England (Reuters) - Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan announced on Wednesday they had named their newborn son Archie as they showed him off to the world, saying their "little bundle of joy" was magic. In a post on their Instagram account accompanying a picture of the parents with Queen Elizabeth, her husband Prince Philip and Meghan's mother Doria Ragland, the couple said the seventh-in-line to the British throne would be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The announcement came hours after the new royal got his first taste of life in the limelight as Meghan and Harry appeared with him before a small group of media at St George's Hall in Windsor castle where they held their wedding reception just under a year ago. Harry tightly cradled his son, wrapped in a white shawl and wearing a hat. "It's magic - it's pretty amazing and I have the two best guys in the world so I am really happy," said a beaming Meghan, wearing a white sleeveless coat dress, when asked how she was finding being a new mother. She said the boy, the seventh-in-line to the British throne who has not yet been publicly named, was calm, had the sweetest temperament and was sleeping well. "He's just been the dream," she said, prompting Harry to quip: "I don't know who he gets that from". Archie was born in the early hours of Monday morning, weighing 7 lb 3oz (3.26 kg), but few other details have been given about the birth. "It's great, parenting is amazing," Harry said. "It's only been two-and-a-half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy, to be able to spend some precious time with him as he slowly starts to grow up." After the brief photocall, the couple took their baby to see 93-year-old Elizabeth, the world's longest-reigning monarch, to allow her to meet her eighth great-grandchild. Meghan's mother is staying with the couple at their home Frogmore Cottage, on the castle's estate. "It will a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well," Meghan, 37, said. Britain's royal family attracts huge fascination and there is particular interest in Harry and former U.S. actress Meghan, who are officially known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. A BRITISH AND U.S. CITIZEN? Given their worldwide popularity, the birth of their first child has attracted particular attention, especially as Archie is first mixed race child to be born into a senior position in British royalty in recent history. He is also entitled to hold U.S. citizenship while also automatically being a British national. However, the baby will not automatically be a prince or a princess, or be known as "His Royal Highness", unless the queen issues a specific decree. Congratulations to the new parents have poured in from celebrities and world leaders. Harry's father, the heir-to-the-throne Prince Charles expressed his joy at the arrival of his fourth grandson on Tuesday, while elder brother Prince William and his wife Kate said they were absolutely thrilled at the news. "Thank you all so much, and thank you everybody for all the well-wishes and the kindness, it just means so much," Meghan said. Archie, one of the 20 most popular names for baby boys in Britain, was not among any of the names being tipped by bookmakers and Harrison is another break with those traditionally given to British royals. Some commentators have argued that the birth marks another milestone in the gradual modernisation of the almost thousand-year-old monarchy. "You are the first child in almost three centuries to bring Africa back into the royal gene pool," Trevor Phillips, the former head of Britain's Equality and Human Rights Commission, wrote in an open letter to the newborn. "You are seventh in line to the throne and everything you bring with you will now be part of the public life of our nation." However, not everyone has been happy with the way the couple have handled the publicity around the birth and how much information has been given to the media. Harry has never made a secret of his dislike of the press since his mother Princess Diana was killed in a crash in 1997 as her car sped away from chasing photographers. "Choosing a U.S. Network ... is treading on dodgy ground," the queen's former press secretary Dickie Arbiter wrote on Twitter about the decision to have a U.S. TV crew in the small group invited to cover Wednesday's event. However, Harry was more than happy to help out the media as he showed off Archie, cracking a joke as he pulled back the blanket to allow cameras to get a better look at his son. "He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well - wonderful," joked the bearded prince. (Writing by Michael Holden; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) Last night, the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) chapter in Georgia gathered at the Atlanta History Center to celebrate the 39th annual Magnolia Ball, celebrating the honorees of the Design Excellence Awards. 2019 Georgia chapter president Kristin Kong, principal of K. Kong Designs, opened the Magnolia Ball by welcoming the nearly 400 attendees, including members, their guests, sponsors, and manufacturers. This organization provides a collaborative environment that works to promote the value and impact of interior design on the human experience, she said. It is of paramount importance to associate ourselves with an organization that continues to advocate on our behalf. No matter your reason for joining ASID, just remember: You belong! The awards ceremony was emceed by Tony Purvis, the chapters finance director, and its director at large, Mican Andrews. Before the professional awards began, students were recognized from four Georgia design programs. There were 12 awards in different student categories, four of which were won by Savannah College of Art and Design's Jessica Wing Lam Ma. Photo: Jon-Michael Sullivan More than 170 projects were submitted by ASID chapter members across 28 categories for the main awards of the night. Judges from chapters around the country, including New York, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and South Florida evaluated and voted on winners. Each category was judged independently by multiple reviewers for objectivity. Photo: Jon-Michael Sullivan Guests dressed their best for the evening, with some decked out to the nines in black tie. After the awards were presented, the night was filled with music, a gourmet dinner, and a wine pairing. Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Reuters) - Malaysian prosecutors are seeking the forfeiture of millions of dollars in cash and assets seized from disgraced former prime minister Najib Razak, his family, and others, the state news agency Bernama reported on Wednesday. Prosecutors named Najib, his wife Rosmah Mansor, his stepson Riza Aziz, and the couple's two other children among 18 respondents in a notice of motion filed at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Tuesday, Bernama reported. Najib and Rosmah's lawyer did not respond to a request for comment on the filing. Legal representatives for Riza and other family members named in the motion were not immediately available for comment. Since losing a general election in May last year, Najib has been charged with 42 criminal offenses, mostly linked to a multibillion-dollar scandal at 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), a state fund he founded in 2009. Authorities have seized cash and luxury goods worth about $275 million from properties linked to Najib, who denies any wrongdoing. The latest motion concerned cash and assets - including property, vehicles, luxury handbags, watches and shoes - seized from the respondents between May 2018 and March 2019, Bernama reported. Prosecutors say they were related to alleged money laundering or the result of illegal activities involving the respondents, Bernama said. A date for the forfeiture hearing has not yet been fixed, it added. Authorities in six countries are investigating alleged money laundering and graft at 1MDB. U.S. prosecutors estimate that about $4.5 billion was misappropriated from 1MDB by high-level officials at the fund and their associates. According to Bernama, other respondents named in the forfeiture suit include Goh Gaik Ewe, the mother of Low Taek Jho, a Malaysian financier who has been charged in the United States and Malaysia for his alleged central role in the 1MDB case. Goh and Low's whereabouts are unknown, though Low has consistently denied wrongdoing. A spokesman for Low did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the latest motion. Story continues The suit also named Malaysian Roger Ng, a former Goldman Sachs banker, who has been charged over his role in helping the bank raise bonds totalling $6.5 billion for 1MDB, some of which were allegedly misappropriated. Last week, Ng was extradited to the United States where he pleaded not guilty to conspiring to launder money and bribe foreign government officials. Goldman Sachs has consistently denied wrongdoing and said certain members of the former Malaysian government and 1MDB lied to it about how the bond proceeds would be used. ($1 = 4.1470 ringgit) (Reporting by Rozanna Latiff; Editing by Jon Boyle) BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) The man accused of breaking into the Louisiana Governor's Mansion has been released from jail on $32,000 bail. Reynard T. Green told The Associated Press on Wednesday he is seeking legal advice and declined to discuss his arrest. He said he has not yet spoken to an attorney about the counts of burglary, trespassing and criminal property damage he faces. Booking records show Green was released from jail May 2. He was taken into custody April 17 after authorities said he was found asleep on a couch in the Governor's Mansion. Green also is accused of breaking an antique table. State Police have not said how Green allegedly broke into the building. Gov. John Bel Edwards has declined to say whether he and his wife were home at the time. MIAMI (AP) A Florida man who was jailed after refusing to remove what authorities called an obscene sticker from his vehicle's window said Tuesday that he is fighting the charges and will defend his constitutional right to free speech. Dillon Shane Webb, 23, was arrested Sunday and charged with misdemeanor counts of violating Florida's obscenity law and resisting an officer without violence, a Columbia County Sheriff's Office report said. Webb told The Associated Press in a telephone interview that he plans to file a wrongful arrest lawsuit against the sheriff's office. "I'm tired of police forces thinking they are above the Constitution, the Bill of Rights," Webb said. A deputy stopped Webb in Lake City because of a vehicle sticker crudely describing a sexual appetite, the sheriff's report said. When told about the reason for the stop, Webb reportedly said, "They're just words." Wedd said the deputy seemed angry from the start of the traffic stop. "Like the whole time, he was just really rude," Webb told the AP. "It just felt to me like his goal was to get me in jail." The deputy said he asked Webb how a parent of a small child would explain the meaning of the words, and Webb said that "it would be up to the parent." Webb told the AP that he didn't imagine the sticker doing any serious damage to children. "I've had parents drive by me with their kids taking pictures," Web said. "They point and laugh and giggle, and they go on about their day." Webb said he had the sticker on his truck for less than a week before his traffic stop. He said he and several friends had all decided to get similar stickers as a group joke. "I guess this cop just didn't find it funny, and he just thought he has to put me in jail," Webb said. The deputy initially cited Webb for obscenity with a notice to appear in court, the report said. The deputy told Webb to alter the sticker to change the derogatory part, but Webb refused. Story continues "I said I'm not removing any letters on my sticker because that's in violation of my First Amendment rights as a tax-paying citizen," Webb said. The deputy then charged Webb with resisting and took him to jail. Webb was released several hours later on $2,500 bond. Webb's vehicle had been towed when he was arrested. He said the sticker was still in place when he retrieved the vehicle. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida released a statement Tuesday questioning why the sheriff's office was wasting resources on such a traffic stop. "Shouldn't police officers spend their time serving and protecting communities and not pulling Floridians over for speech that is already protected by the First Amendment?" ACLU spokeswoman Casey Bruce-White said in a statement. "Using the excuse that a child would see and ask questions about this particular bumper sticker is absurd." The sheriff's office told the AP that deputy had probable cause of a violation of criminal law and took action. "If the law is faulty then the legislature can address that or if the law is unconstitutional then the judiciary will address it, Sgt. Murray Smith said, adding that the defendant will have his day in court. Webb said he wasn't even aware of the state's obscenity law, but after reviewing it since his arrest, he said it needs to be changed. He acknowledged that his sticker could be considered vulgar by some, but the law doesn't really define what that is. "What's vulgar to me might not be vulgar to somebody else," Webb said. The horrific incident happened in the Tesco car park in Slough. (GOOGLE) A man has been stabbed to death in a Tesco underground car park in Slough sparking a police murder investigation. The male victim was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead. His next of kin is yet to be informed and no arrests have been made. Thames Valley Police were called to the car park of Tesco in Wellington Street at 12.32pm today after a report that a man had been stabbed. Police officers and the South Central Ambulance Service attended the scene and have called upon witnesses to come forward. Head of the forces Major Crime Unit, Detective Superintendent Ian Hunter said: This is a shocking incident in which a man has lost his life. Our task now is to find out what happened and bring the offender or offenders to justice. We are deeply saddened by this incident. Please help police with their enquiries if you can. https://t.co/okFmRAnrwa SBC (@SloughCouncil) May 8, 2019 Read more on Yahoo News UK: GP ignored NHS guidance before vulnerable university student killed herself Dog owners warned after huge increase in potentially fatal adder bites The victims next of kin are yet to be informed, so I would urge the media and the public not to speculate on the victims identity until his next of kin has been informed and he has been formally identified. I understand that this incident will cause concern in the community but I want to reassure all residents that the Major Crime Unit has commenced an extensive investigation. We are already reviewing CCTV, taking witness statements and carrying out forensic examinations. However, we also need the help of the public. If you have any information you think might aid our investigation, if you saw or heard anything suspicious or have mobile phone, dashcam or CCTV footage then please contact the force. The easiest way to contact us is by visiting our website at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ or calling 101, quoting reference 487 (8/5). Story continues There is a scenewatch in place, with the underground car park at Tesco currently closed. We would ask people to avoid the area at this time while we carry out vital enquiries. The Major Crime Unit is being supported by our colleagues in the Slough local policing area. If you have any questions or concerns then please speak to an officer. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo UK May continues to bring a wild potpourri of violent weather across a large portion of the nation: Tens of millions of people are in the path of the storms. A day after at least a dozen tornadoes ripped through Texas and Oklahoma, more rounds of severe storms slammed portions of the South on Wednesday. Still more storms were forecast for Thursday "The severe weather threat on both Wednesday and Thursday will shift away from the wide-open spaces of the High Plains to the more heavily populated areas on the lower Plains & the Mississippi and Ohio Valleys," AccuWeather warned. Over 13 million people live where severe storms are possible Wednesday, the Storm Prediction Center said. The storm threat area on Thursday will be in the Deep South, mainly in Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas and Louisiana. Meanwhile, ongoing bouts of drenching rain continue to pelt waterlogged portions of the region, exacerbating relentless flooding. The Houston area was particularly hard hit on Tuesday, as nearly 10 inches of rain soaked the metro area, inundating homes and roads. The heavy rain prompted flash flood emergencies in some communities because of rapidly rising floodwaters. The storms soaked parts of Texas that have been repeatedly hit by flooding in recent years, including the deadly and devastating floods from Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Vehicles wade through flooded Kingwood Drive as thunderstorms hit the Kingwood area Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Texas. The sodden weather wasn't confined to Texas. "There is ongoing flooding from Texas to Wisconsin ... and more rain over the next three days will make flooding worse in some locations," the National Weather Service said. Evacuations were under way in portions of Kansas, where flooding is forcing people from their homes, closing roads and prompting schools to call off classes. More than 20 million people live where flooding is possible this week, the weather service said. Flooding is likely to continue along a portion of the Mississippi River and perhaps others over the central United States into June as rounds of excessive rain continue, AccuWeather said. Story continues In Missouri, almost a dozen levees already have been breached or threatened in recent days. Chris Gamm, presiding commissioner for Pike County, Mo., told USA TODAY that some communities along the Mississippi River have been flooded for two weeks. The countys levees all blew out over the weekend, he said. The governor is going to see if there is some emergency relief we can get from federal and state people, he said. Apparently they cant employ emergency resource assets until the water goes down and they can see the damage. But some areas have been underwater for two weeks. There are several thousand acres of farmland that are already covered. Its pretty drastic," Gamm said. Wintry North, West Snow was also expected overnight Wednesday and into Thursday in northeastern Minnesota, far northern Wisconsin, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where a few inches of snow could accumulate, the weather service said. "Snow is also likely in the West, and accumulating snow could be heavy for higher elevations," weather service meteorologist Jennifer Tate said. Heavy snow is expected to fall over the central Rockies where 1 to 2 feet of new snow is likely through Friday evening. Up to 30 inches of snow is possible for the San Juan mountains of southwestern Colorado and northwestern New Mexico. Contributing: The Associated Press; John Bacon, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: May mayhem: Tornadoes, storms, floods, snow wreak weather havoc across US LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Queen Elizabeth is expected to meet her new great grandson, the son of Prince Harry and Meghan, on Wednesday, Press Association reported. Meghan gave birth in the early hours of Monday morning to the boy, the seventh-in-line to the British throne and the eighth great-grandchild of 93-year-old Elizabeth. He weighed 7 lb 3oz (3.26 kg). Senior members of the British royal family said they were delighted and thrilled at the birth of the baby, whose name has yet to be revealed. Harry and Meghan are expected to show their baby in public for the first time on Wednesday. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; editing by Michael Holden) The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, - PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed their newborn son to the world on Wednesday, just two days after Buckingham Palace had announced the birth the new royal baby. The now-retired American actress and her royal husband maintained an element of secrecy around the arrangements for the birth, initially saying they would only announce the babys arrival once they have had an opportunity to celebrate privately as a new family. That announcement came on Monday and revealed that the Duchess had given birth to a boy weighing 7lb 3oz at 5.26am.. Two days later, at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, the couple showed off their as-yet-unnamed son. Where Meghan's introduction into (and adding to) the Royals is concerned, it has been quite an atypical journey for the new Duchess; she didn't come from a similar upbringing to her royal-ready Middleton sister-in-law. Instead, the Duchess of Sussex (born Rachel Meghan Markle) was born in Los Angeles on August 4, 1981 and quite literally grew up in Hollywood. Though her parents - Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle Snr - divorced when she was six, her extended family's story does not end there. In fact, it takes unlikely and estranged turns towards a diplomat uncle, cannabis-growing nephew, and beyond. As Meghan welcomes her baby into the world with Prince Harry, here we take a look at her family, many of whom are never far from the headlines. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, Credit: Dominic Lipinski PA Doria Ragland, Meghan Markle's mother Doria Ragland, 62, was born in Los Angeles to an antique dealer father and a mother who was a nurse. She attended the Fairfax High School, where she was remembered as bright and friendly - the teenager with the "Afro" hairstyle who loved listening to Marvin Gaye and dining out at a local Mexican taco joint with friends. After school she worked as a make-up artist, which is how she met her husband, Thomas Markle Snr, a lighting director in Hollywood. The pair married in 1979 and Ms Markle was born two years later. Story continues Meghan Markle pictured as a child in Rwanda with her mother Doria Credit: TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED The family moved into a house in The Valley, LA, to a neighbourhood that Ms Markle described as "leafy and affordable". Ms Ragland and Mr Markle divorced in 1987, but remained friends. Ms Ragland took a job as an air stewardess, meaning their daughter was frequently cared for by her father. Meghan Markle with her moother Doria, who has a masters in social work Credit: TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED She later returned to university to obtain a masters in social work, following on from her BA in psychology. She now lives in the house she inherited from her father in 2011 in the Crenshaw area of LA. Ms Ragland and her daughter are extremely close - Ms Ragland once drove a car with the number plate MEGNME - and Ms Markle has spoken of her pride in her free-spirited mother, with her dreadlocks and nose ring. Ms Ragland travelled with her daughter to her wedding ceremony from their overnight accommodation at Cliveden House Hotel, Berkshire, to St Georges Chapel. She has been at the couple's side to help them welcome her first grandchild. Meghan's family tree Thomas Markle, Meghan's father Born in Pennsylvania, of Dutch-Irish descent, soon-to-be-grandfather Thomas Markle Snr, 74, made his way to Hollywood where he worked as a lighting director. He worked for many years on the set of the television show 'Married With Children' and his work on long-running series General Hospital earned him nine Daytime Emmy nominations, of which he was twice named the winner. He was also reportedly chosen to oversee the lighting for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics as well as the 1986 Oscar ceremony. Prior to meeting Doria Ragland, he had been married to Roslyn Loveless, with whom he had two children - Samantha, now 52, and Thomas Jr, now 50. Mr Markle and his daughter were very close, with the young Meghan accompanying him on film sets and being cared for by him while her mother was travelling as an air stewardess. Baby Meghan Markle lies on the chest of her father Thomas Credit: TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED Mr Markle moved to Mexico after retiring and was declared bankrupt in June 2016. The Duchess has described her father as the "most hardworking father you can imagine". He has reportedly still not met Prince Harry but gave his blessing to the Prince over the phone when asked for Meghan's hand in marriage. Mr Markle intended to travel from Mexico to the UK to meet his future son-in-law (and the rest of his royal family) before walking Ms Markle down the aisle. Meghan Markle pictured as a toddler with her father Thomas Credit: TIM STEWART NEWS LIMITED Following alleged dealings with the paparazzi to take advantage of Meghan's major moment, he said he would avoid the ceremony for fear of embarrassing his daughter. The pictures, which appeared to be staged, showed Mr Markle getting measured for what was thought to be his wedding suit, looking at pictures of his daughter and Harry while in an internet cafe, and reading a picture book about Britain while having a coffee. He then pulled out of the wedding four days before the ceremony, after falling unwell and required heart surgery. He claimed his failure to fly would also force him to cancel appointments with the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall and Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Since the wedding, he has made frequent pleas through the media to speak to Meghan which he claims have been mostly ignored, bar a private letter he released to the public last month. Meghan Markles uncles Michael Markle Of Thomas Markle Seniors two brothers, the eldest, Michael, had a profound impact on Meghan's early life. The 80-year-old is a retired US diplomat and Air Force veteran who lives in Florida. His wife, Toni, died of cancer in 2012. During his State Department career, he reportedly worked in Ottawa, Bucharest, Berlin and Guam, and when Meghan was 20 years old, she planned to follow in his footsteps with a potential career in diplomacy. It was through Michaels connections that Meghan was able to secure a prestigious place at the American embassy in Buenos Aires, Argentina. After enrolling at Northwestern University in Illinois, Spanish speaker Meghan travelled to Argentina for her senior year in 2003. She completed a double major in Theatre and International Relations. "So I'm 20 years old, in Buenos Aires, in a motorcade, doing that whole thing. I thought for sure I would still have a career in politics, she told Vogue a decade later. In an interview with the Mirror in 2018, Michael spoke of his role in the process. I knew the ambassador, and I asked him if he could help, as her application was a little on the late side, he said. As a result, he was surprised not to be invited to his nieces wedding. I dont understand why she has been so indifferent towards me. Its uncalled for. I helped her out, and I didnt ask for anything in return. This whole invitation thing has not been played out very well. I never did anything to embarrass Meghan. It seems to me they handled the arrangements poorly. Michael has a 60-year-old daughter, Trish Gallup, who runs her own chauffeur business. Frederick Markle Meghans other paternal uncle, Frederick, is a reclusive cleric who also lives in Florida. There, he is the leader and sole minister of the small Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church, reportedly going by the name Bishop Dismas. According to the Daily Mail, Frederick lives in a secluded woodland property and lives like a hermit, shunning technology. He has refused to speak about his nieces marriage, as have his two sons, Nick and David, and ex-wife Theresa. Meghan Markle's siblings Half-brother Thomas Markle Jr The 52-year-old window fitter lives in Grants Pass, Oregon. He said his family was like The Dukes of Hazzard and The Simpsons, versus the Royal family but has spoken fondly of his half-sister, with whom he grew up in Los Angeles. He was married for 11 years to Tracy Dooley, with whom he has two sons Thomas and Tyler. Thomas Markle Jr has spoken fondly of Meghan Markle, his half-sister Credit: AKGS He was arrested in January 2018 for holding a gun to girlfriend Darlene Blounts head in a drunken argument. Mr Markle and Miss Blount are now engaged. Half-sister Samantha Grant Samantha Grant, 54, lives in Florida and is a wheelchair user and suffers from multiple sclerosis. She discussed the allegedly staged images of her father's on Loose Women, saying she was entirely the culprit, convincing her father that it would be to his advantage to show himself in a positive light. It was my suggestion that to benefit him and to benefit the Royal Family and that everyone looked good, and they depict you as you are, she said. Samantha Markle has lashed out at her half-sister, Meghan, in several interviews Credit: Splash News She also caused a stir when she announced she was writing a book entitled The Diary of Princess Pushys Sister. Despite not having spoken to her in nine years, Ms Grant lashed out at Ms Markle in numerous interviews. She since says she was misquoted. The Dooleys Ms Markle's sister-in-law Tracy Dooley, and her sons Tyler and TJ, are among the family members who were not invited to the wedding. Ms Dooley, who was married to the former actress's half-brother, was pictured arriving at Heathrow Airport before the wedding. She has previously told ITV's Good Morning Britain she had not received an invitation to the ceremony at Windsor Castle, admitting she had not seen Ms Markle for 20 years. The Dooleys announced on Facebook they had arrived in the capital. Tyler, 27, who uploaded an image of the Imperial War Museum, as well as a photograph of the inside of a hotel room, is a cannabis farmer who considers himself a 'pioneer' in the legal production of the drug in California. He is reportedly keen to develop a new cannabis strain called 'Markle's Sparkle', in aid of his cousin's position. Meghan Markle's nephew Tyler Dooley is a Cannabis farmer who is planning a new drug called Markle's Sparkle Credit: Mega The family are keen on the burgeoning industry. TJ, 28, reportedly gives marijuana to his dog for pain relief, while Tracy frequently sells advertising space to marijuana dispensaries. On arriving in London for the wedding in May last year,, Ms Dooley posted on her Facebook page called "Royal Wedding with the Dooley Markles" that she hoped Ms Markle's father was "well, healthy and happy". She wrote: "Just glad to have landed safely and hoping for Tom senior to be well, healthy, & happy. I wish the same for Meghan, Prince Harry, my children, friends, family and those who need our prayers and love. Peace, love and good works." In April 2018, the page, which appears to be run by Ms Dooley, shared an article headlined "Meghan Markle snubs nephew and his mum with no invite to Royal wedding." It was accompanied with the caption: "Beyond blessed to be any part of this momentous occasion. We'll be front and center at Windsor cheering Meghan and Prince Harry on." Trevor Engelson, Meghan's ex-husband New York-born film and television producer Trevor Engelson, 41, was married to Ms Markle for two years, until 2013. The pair married on the beach in Jamaica in 2011, tying the knot at the Jamaica Inn in Ocho Rios, in front of around 100 guests. They are believed to have been dating for seven years before they married. Meghan Markle and Trevor Engelson in 2006 Credit: Billy Farrell/Patrick McMullan/Getty Their August 2013 divorce cited irreconcilable differences, and their work schedules - he is based in Los Angeles, while she began filming legal drama Suits in Toronto the year they married. Engelson is due to marry nutritionist Tracey Kurland in just over one month- almost exactly a year after Meghan and Prince Harry's own nuptials - on May 11. During his Miami-based bachelor party in March footage emerged of friends toasting (perhaps roasting) the groom, joking: "If it wasn't for Trev I wouldn't believe that I could marry a future princess, so now I gotta...what princess is available right now, I'm coming for you girl." He is working on a show about a man whose wife runs off with a prince. MEXICO CITY (AP) A union official accompanying protesting street vendors was shot to death Wednesday during the demonstration outside city hall in the south-central Mexico city of Cuernavaca, and another trade unionist also was killed, officials said. A TV cameraman and another person were wounded. Morelos state authorities said the shooting of union official Jesus Garcia came as vendors demonstrated over their possible expulsion from the city's main plaza. Cuernavaca's mayor, Francisco Antonio Villalobos, said the other person killed also was a union official but did not release the victim's identity. State prosecutor Uriel Cardona said the preliminary investigation indicated the shooting was not aimed at the protesters or media. He said it also appeared that only one shooter was involved and that was the man arrested quickly after the incident. Bullets hit two other people, including TV cameraman Rene Perez, who was covering the protest. Perez was being treated for non-life-threatening wounds at a local hospital. Federico Mayorga, the host of the program Perez works for, said violence has gotten out of hand in Cuernavaca, a city popular with tourists because of its mild climate and exuberant vegetation. "Things cannot go on like this," Mayorga said. Authorities did not say what might have motivated the shooting. Disputes between groups of street vendors and rival unions have resulted in violence in the past, and vendors have also been subjected to extortion by criminal gangs. MEXICO CITY, May 8 (Reuters) - Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Wednesday criticized a U.S. decision to impose a 17.5% tariff on tomatoes imported from Mexico, saying it ran counter to efforts to curb migration into the United States from south of the border. "This serves to encourage (migration)," Lopez Obrador told reporters at a regular news conference, noting the tariff decision was "the opposite of an intelligent policy seeking to temper the migration issue." The veteran leftist has sought to avoid confrontation with U.S. President Donald Trump since taking office in December, and put the tariff decision down to U.S. electoral politics. Noting he did not want to get involved in the matter, he nevertheless said Mexico would defend its tomato producers. Trump has threatened to shut down the U.S. border with Mexico if the Lopez Obrador administration does not halt the flow of illegal immigration into the United States. For his part, Lopez Obrador says the United States and Mexico should work together to foster development in Central America to tackle an exodus of people from the impoverished and violent countries of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador. The U.S. Commerce Department on Tuesday said it would impose the tariff on imported Mexican tomatoes. It was, however, optimistic a deal could be reached to extend a 2013 agreement that suspended a U.S. anti-dumping investigation. The Commerce Department said in early February that the United States would resume an anti-dumping investigation into Mexican tomatoes, withdrawing from a so-called suspension agreement that halted the anti-dumping case as long as Mexican producers sold their tomatoes above a pre-determined price. U.S. growers and lawmakers say that deal has failed. (Reporting by Delphine Schrank Editing by Dave Graham and Bernadette Baum) Donald Trump has pardoned a former US soldier who stripped an Iraqi prisoner naked and then shot him twice. The US president signed an executive grant of clemency, a full pardon, for former US Army Lieutenant Michael Behenna, White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Behenna, a platoon leader in the 101st Airborne Division, was convicted of unpremeditated murder and sentenced to 25 years for killing Ali Mansur Mohamed, a suspected al-Qaeda terrorist, in Iraq in 2008. Behenna, who stripped Mansur and then questioned him at gunpoint before shooting him, claimed he was acting in self-defence. His sentence was subsequently reduced to 15 years and he was paroled in 2014, five years into his term. Behennas case attracted broad support from the military, elected officials in his native Oklahoma and the public, Ms Sanders said. She said he was a model prisoner while serving his sentence and entirely deserving of the pardon. Behennas soldiers captured Mansur and he was questioned by military intelligence in connection with a roadside bomb that killed two members of the platoon on 21 April, 2008. Mansur was released due to insufficient evidence to hold him and Behenna was tasked with returning him to his village. But during the operation, Behenna stopped the convoy and took the man to a railroad culvert, stripped him and then questioned him at gunpoint about the roadside bombing. Behenna claimed Mansur lunged for his weapon and he shot him in self defence, according to testimony from his 2009 trial. By Jonathan Stempel (Reuters) - A divided federal appeals court ruled on Wednesday that Michigan may suspend the driver's licenses of poor people with unpaid traffic fines, saying it did not violate their constitutional rights to due process and equal protection. By a 2-1 vote, the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Michigan had legitimate interests in promoting compliance with court orders and collecting traffic debt. The Cincinnati-based appeals court set aside a Dec. 2017 injunction blocking Michigan from enforcing a law allowing the suspensions. "Michigan's choice to wield the cudgel of driver's-license suspension for nonpayment of court debt dramatically heightens the incentive to pay," Circuit Judge Alice Batchelder wrote for the majority. "Such a policy is rationally related to the government's interest in prompt assessment and collection of civil penalties." Opponents said the law was irrational because license suspensions made it harder for poor people to commute to work, reducing their ability to pay their debts. It is unclear whether they will appeal. "This issue affects hundreds of thousands of people in Michigan alone, and millions more across the country," Phil Telfeyan, who argued the opponents' appeal, said in an interview. "I'm surprised and disappointed by the ruling." The office of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In a Sept. 2017 report, the nonprofit Legal Aid Justice Center said 43 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. allowed license suspensions because of unpaid court debt, and 40 states allowed suspensions without regard to drivers' ability to pay. Washington, D.C. ended its suspension practice last year. In October, U.S. District Judge Aleta Trauger in Nashville ordered Tennessee to halt license suspensions based on unpaid traffic fines, with exceptions. Tennessee appealed that ruling. Story continues Michigan's law was challenged by two Detroit women, each the sole caretaker of a young daughter. Adrian Fowler said she could not find a job accessible by public transit to help her pay $2,121 she owed, while Kitia Harris said her inability to pay $276 left her struggling to attend regular medical appointments. Circuit Judge Bernice Bouie Donald dissented from Wednesday's decision, faulting Michigan for imposing a "harsher sanction" on indigent drivers than other drivers. Batchelder, an appointee of President George H.W. Bush, was joined by Circuit Judge Amul Thapar, an appointee of President Donald Trump. Donald was appointed by President Barack Obama. The Michigan case was returned to U.S. District Judge Linda Parker in Detroit, who issued the injunction. The case is Fowler et al v Benson, 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 17-2504. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by David Gregorio) More than a million people in the UK switched to decaf over the past 12 months - Moment RF From bullet-proof' with added butter to the turmeric latte, our morning coffee has undergone several healthy make-overs of late. Now, were ditching the caffeine too more than a million people in the UK switched to decaf over the past 12 months, according to consumer research analyst Mintel. The trend has been explained by our new obsession with sleep, improvements in the taste of decaffeinated coffee and rising concentrations of caffeine in regular coffee and other beverages such as energy drinks. But is going decaf really a healthy choice? Research suggests moderate consumption of coffee is safe and may have some benefits. In 2017, the World Health Organisation changed its stance on coffee from possibly carcinogenic to no conclusive evidence. A review of the evidence published in the British Medical Journal in 2017 found drinking three to four cups of coffee a day was more likely to be beneficial than harmful to health. Overall, the scientists found no consistent evidence of coffee causing any harm to health, except for evidence that showed it may make some women more likely to suffer bone fractures. Coffee contains chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant that has been shown to slow the bodys absorption of glucose which may explain why coffee drinkers have a lower risk of type- 2 diabetes. Coffees antioxidant activity may also help to reduce the risk of cancer. Last week, Spanish researchers reported that regular consumption may protect against post-menopausal breast cancer, thanks to its chlorogenic acid (which is also found in fruit and vegetables). The good news is that decaf coffee offers the same benefits. Many of us drink coffee specifically for the pick-me-up that the caffeine shot provides, or for an energy boost before a work-out. However, coffee fans may be deflated to learn that any sense of extra alertness or focus they feel after their morning cup is in fact just the easing of their withdrawal symptoms. Story continues Repeated consumption of caffeine, even as little as one cup of coffee daily, generally leads to the development of physical dependence, says Professor Jack James, a psychologist who studies caffeine at Reykjavik University. Fatigue and reduced mental performance are among the withdrawal effects. Therefore, when habitual users of caffeine consume the drug after a period of abstinence (which can be a little as overnight), fatigue and mental performance tend to improve. But these improvements are nothing more than reversal of withdrawal effects. How much caffeine is safe? There are no official recommended maximum levels in the UK, though pregnant or breast-feeding women should limit their intake to below 200mg a day around two mugs of brewed instant coffee or one filter coffee. Drinking more than this in pregnancy is associated with low baby birth weight, higher risk of premature birth and higher risk of miscarriage. Professor James says the evidence is strongly consistent with advice to avoid caffeine altogether,, but the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which reviewed the evidence on caffeine in 2015, says its safe for adults to enjoy up to 400mg per day (equivalent to about four mugs of instant). The frequency at which we drink coffee and caffeinated drinks makes a difference, too the EFSA recommends no more than 200mg is consumed in one go. It takes the average healthy adult four hours to reduce the amount of caffeine in their system by 50 per cent. So if you drink one Starbucks tall americano before work at 8.30am, by lunchtime your body is likely to still contain as much caffeine as there is in an espresso shot. Concerns are now being raised about the amount of caffeine being consumed in energy drinks, especially by young people. A study carried out by Dr Nicky Knights, a psychologist at the University of Southampton, found one in five British 11- to 18-year-olds drank at least one energy drink every day. Energy drinks are seen as normal in society, but some have massive amounts of caffeine, she says. When a child has one for the first time, it can have quite severe physical effects. Caffeine is not recommended at all for younger children and babies, but for older children and teenagers, around 3mg per kg of body weight per day is considered safe. According to the British Nutrition Foundation, that means an average 10-year-old child weighing 30kg could safely drink around 90mg of caffeine a day around one 250ml can of Red Bull. However, research shows under-18s who regularly drink energy drinks are more likely to suffer headaches, sleeping problems, stomach problems, behavioural problems and tiredness. As ever, the advice is to consume in moderation - and if you want to cut down, swapping to decaf from time to time might not be such a bad idea. A missing piece of one of the huge sarsen stones at Stonehenge has been returned to the ancient monument (PA) A missing piece of Stonehenge which was removed more than 60 years ago has been returned to the ancient monument, English Heritage said. The stone "core" was removed during archaeological excavations in 1958 and its existence remained largely unknown for six decades, but it now joins English Heritage's collection of more than 500,000 artefacts. Experts now hope that its return may help uncover the source of the stones that form much of the monument. The core was removed during the raising of a fallen trilithon, a group of two upright stones and a third across the top, in 1958. It was drilled as part of measures to use metal rods to reinforce one of the vertical stones, which was found to be cracked, and the repairs were masked by small plugs from sarsen fragments found during excavation. A stone core which was removed from Stonehenge during the raising of a fallen trilithon (PA) The stone core was removed in 1958 (PA) The work to drill three 32mm holes horizontally through the metre-thick stone was undertaken by Basingstoke diamond-cutting business Van Moppes. Company employee Robert Phillips kept one of the Stonehenge cores, which he gave pride of place to in his office, and then took it with him when he left the firm and later emigrated to the US. On the eve of his 90th birthday, he expressed a wish that the fragment of the world famous prehistoric monument be returned to English Heritage. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Theresa May faces yet another leadership threat Ancient drug pouch shows that people took cocaine 1,000 years ago Murderer thought he would lose his arm as police dog bit him His sons Robin and Lewis travelled to Stonehenge last year and presented it to the conservation charity, which looks after the ancient stone circle. English Heritage does not know if the other two Stonehenge cores survived and is urging anyone involved in the excavations during the 1950s, or whose family was, and has any information on the cores to get in touch. Heather Sebire, English Heritage's curator for Stonehenge, said: "The last thing we ever expected was to get a call from someone in America telling us they had a piece of Stonehenge. Story continues The stone "core" was removed during archaeological excavations in 1958 (Getty) English Heritage does not know if the other two Stonehenge cores survived (Getty) "We are very grateful to the Phillips family for bringing this intriguing piece of Stonehenge back home. "Studying the Stonehenge core's 'DNA' could tell us more about where those enormous sarsen stones originated. Lewis Phillips said: "Our father has always been interested in archaeology and he recognised the huge importance of the piece of the monument in his care. It was his wish that it be returned to Stonehenge. "We are all delighted the core has come home, particularly as it is now being used to further important research. Anyone with information about the other two cores can get in touch by emailing stonehenge.core@english-heritage.org.uk. 1001 E. Bayaud Ave. | Photos: Zumper According to rental site Zumper, median rents for a one bedroom in Speer are hovering around $1,295, compared to a $1,250 one-bedroom median for Denver as a whole. So how does the low-end pricing on a Speer rental look these daysand what might you get for your money? We took a look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments to find out what price-conscious apartment seekers can expect to find in the neighborhood, which, according to Walk Score ratings, is very walkable, is a "biker's paradise" and has good transit options. Take a look at the cheapest listings available right now, below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 550 Logan St. This apartment, situated at 550 Logan St., is listed for $1,095/month. In the unit, look for air conditioning, a mix of hardwood floors and carpeting, a dishwasher and granite countertops. Building amenities include a fitness center, outdoor space, reserved parking and secured entry. For those with furry friends in tow, know that cats and dogs are not welcome on this property. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. (See the complete listing here.) 1001 E. Bayaud Ave. Here's a studio at 1001 E. Bayaud Ave., which, at 421 square feet, is going for $1,137/month. In the unit, expect to find a fireplace, a walk-in closet, in-unit laundry and a dishwasher. The building has a business center, a fitness center, a roof deck and garage parking. Pet lovers are in luck: cats and dogs are welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. (See the full listing here.) 68 Sherman St. And here's a one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 68 Sherman St., which, with 575 square feet, is going for $1,250/month. In the unit, expect air conditioning, in-unit laundry and a dishwasher. Cats and dogs are welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. Story continues (Check out the listing here.) 65 N. Ogden St., #2 At 65 N. Ogden St., #202, you'll find this 534-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment going for $1,290/month. The building offers on-site laundry. In the unit, you're promised air conditioning and a dishwasher. Both cats and dogs are allowed. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. (Check out the complete listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Holiday scams are on the increase. (Getty) Brits lost out on around 7 million to holiday and travel related fraud in 2018, an increase from 6.7 million the year before. Action Fraud, the UKs fraud and cyber crime reporting centre, revealed that the average amount lost was 1,380 per person. In addition to the financial cost, victims have also reported the significant emotional impact caused by this crime. More than half of the scams reported were related to the sale of airline tickets (53%), where scammers sell fake airfares to would-be travellers. August was the month that saw the largest loss of more than 425,000. As well as holiday flights, fraudsters particularly target those visiting friends and family market with flights to Africa and the Indian subcontinent dominating the list of affected destinations. The next most common fraud at 25% related to the sale of accommodation, with a peak in reported losses in October. Fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated methods, with very professional and convincing websites offering upmarket villas for rent. Many properties do actually exist, but are being offered by fraudsters without the legitimate owners knowledge. Spain and France are the two destinations most commonly targeted. French and Spanish villas are among the most common places to get scammed. (Getty) Another type of scam is Hajj fraud, where criminals target Muslims booking trips to Mecca. Reports show that victims can lose anything from 1,000 to 33,000 and between 2013 and 2017, the crimes had a total reported value of 988,743. Head of Action Fraud, Pauline Smith, said: We all love to go on holiday to relax and spend time with family and friends, however as this years statistics show, holidays are also an opportunity for fraudsters to trick you out of your hard-earned money. There is a startling emotional impact of falling victim to holiday fraud bringing the feeling of embarrassment and disappointment to those we love, so we want to ensure that people feel better able to protect themselves. We know that fraudsters are increasingly using more sophisticated ways to trick their victims, which is why it is important that you do your research when making travel arrangements. Story continues If you think you have been a victim of fraud, contact Action Fraud. Tips to avoid holiday fraud Check the booking agent's web address is legitimate and has not been altered by slight changes to a domain name - such as changing from .co.uk to .org Don't just rely on one review - do a thorough online search to check the company's credentials Check whether the company is a member of a recognised trade body such as Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), and look for their logo Wherever possible, pay by credit card and be cautious about paying directly into a private individual's bank account Examine receipts and invoices as well as terms and conditions. Be very wary of companies that do not provide any If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is Sources: ABTA, Action Fraud and Get Safe Online 218 Natalen Ave. | Photos: Zumper According to rental site Zumper, median rents for a one bedroom in Mahncke Park are hovering around $1,000, compared to ann $870 one-bedroom median for San Antonio as a whole. So how does the low-end pricing on a Mahncke Park rental look these daysand what might you get for your money? We took a look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments to find out what price-conscious apartment seekers can expect to find in the neighborhood, which, according to Walk Score ratings, is moderately walkable, is bikeable and has a few nearby public transportation options. Take a look at the cheapest listings available right now, below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 1201 E. Mulberry Ave. Listed at $560/month, this 572-square-foot studio , located at 1201 E. Mulberry Ave., is 34.4 percent less than the $854/month median rent for a studio in Mahncke Park. In the unit, look for air conditioning, a balcony, a walk-in closet and a dishwasher. The building boasts on-site laundry and a swimming pool. Pet owners, inquire elsewhere: this spot doesn't allow cats or dogs. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. (See the complete listing here.) 355 Claremont Ave., #A Then there's this 700-square-foot apartment with one bedroom and one bathroom at 355 Claremont Ave., #A, listed at $715/month. In the unit, expect to find air conditioning and heating units as well as hardwood flooring. Amenities offered in the building include assigned parking and on-site laundry. Both cats and dogs are welcome. (See the listing here.) 218 Natalen Ave. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom , situated at 218 Natalen Ave., is listed for $800/month for its 500 square feet of space. In the unit, look for air conditioning and an updated kitchen with granite countertops and a dishwasher. Amenities offered in the building include on-site laundry. Good news for animal lovers: both dogs and cats are welcome here. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. Story continues (See the listing here.) 133 Parland Place And here's a one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 133 Parland Place, which, with 710 square feet, is going for $995/month. In the unit, you'll find hardwood-like flooring, stainless steel appliances and in-unit laundry. The building offers assigned parking and a swimming pool. Pet lovers are in luck: cats and dogs are welcome. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. (Check out the listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Photo: LJ Crafted Wines/Yelp Mothers Day is the No. 1 day of the year for consumer spending at local restaurants in California, according to an analysis of transactions at 42,000 local eateries by Womply, a provider of marketing and CRM software for small businesses. As patrons pack into California restaurants to treat mom to brunch or dinner, average daily revenue at local restaurants surges to $2,833, a 77% increase over an average day. That sales increase is driven by a 22% bump in transaction volume and 45% increase in purchase price. In San Diego, Mothers Day is also the No. 1 day of the year for consumer spending at local restaurants, according to Womply. Daily revenue increases to $2,884, up 73% over an average day, driven by a 25% increase in transaction volume and a 38% increase in purchase price. When it comes to honoring mothers of all kinds theres no room for half-measures. Still looking for ways to celebrate on May 12? We've got you covered. Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top mom-approved outings around town, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of San Diegos best options. With midday food and drinks galore, there's a reason brunch is a favorite Mother's Day tradition. Here are San Diego's best breakfast and brunch options by the numbers. 1. Richard Walker's Pancake House Photo: Sonia A./Yelp Topping the list is Richard Walker's Pancake House. Located at 520 Front St. (between Island Avenue and Market Street) in Marina, the restaurant is the most popular breakfast and brunch restaurant in San Diego, boasting four stars out of 3,124 reviews on Yelp. 2. Konito's Cafe Photo: Emmett T./Yelp Next up is Pacific Beach's Konito's Cafe, situated at 1730 Garnet Ave. (between Kendall and Jewell streets). With 4.5 stars out of 242 reviews on Yelp, the breakfast and brunch spot has proven to be a local favorite. 3. Cafe On Park Photo: Ben P./Yelp North Park's Cafe On Park, located at 3831 Park Blvd. (between Essex Street and University Avenue), is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the breakfast and brunch spot four stars out of 858 reviews. Story continues To top off a lovely Mother's Day, look no further than the best wine bars in town. Whether it's red, white or rose you're after, these top spots are sure to deliver the goods. 1. M Winehouse Photo: Briana J./Yelp Topping the list is M Winehouse. Located at 1918 India St. (between Fir and Grape streets) in Little Italy, the wine bar is the highest rated wine bar in San Diego, boasting 4.5 stars out of 164 reviews on Yelp. 2. LJ Crafted Wines Photo: LJ Crafted Wines/Yelp La Jolla's LJ Crafted Wines, located at 5621 La Jolla Blvd., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the wine bar 4.5 stars out of 67 reviews. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Zell's Cafe. | Photo: Stacy C./Yelp When it comes to honoring mothers of all kinds theres no room for half-measures. Still looking for ways to celebrate on May 12? We've got you covered. Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top mom-approved outings around town, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of Portlands best options. With midday food and drinks galore, there's a reason brunch is a favorite Mother's Day tradition. Here are Portland's best breakfast and brunch options by the numbers. 1. Zell's Cafe Photo: Alexus P. /Yelp Topping the list is Zell's Cafe. Located at 1300 S.E. Morrison St. in Buckman, the breakfast and brunch spot is the highest-rated breakfast and brunch restaurant in Portland, boasting 4.5 stars out of 485 reviews on Yelp. 2. Jam On Hawthorne Photo: Samee M./Yelp Next up is Buckman's Jam On Hawthorne, situated at 2239 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd. With four stars out of 1,276 reviews on Yelp, the breakfast and brunch spot has proven to be a local favorite. 3. Little Griddle Photo: M B./Yelp Beaumont-Wilshire's Little Griddle, located at 3520 N.E. 42nd Ave., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the breakfast and brunch spot 4.5 stars out of 283 reviews. After brunch, why not treat mom to a top-rated art boutique? Redux Kerns's Redux, located at 811 E. Burnside, Suite 116, is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the art store, which offers jewelry, accessories and more, 4.5 stars out of 68 reviews. To top off a lovely Mother's Day, look no further than the best wine bars in town. Whether it's red, white or rose you're after, these top spots are sure to deliver the goods. 1. Muse Winebar Photo: Kaeley W./Yelp Topping the list is Muse Winebar. Located at 2264 N.W. Raleigh St. in Northwest, the wine bar is the highest rated wine bar in Portland, boasting five stars out of 62 reviews on Yelp. 2. Hi-Wheel Fizzy Wine Co Photo: Jessica N./Yelp Next up is Woodlawn's Hi-Wheel Fizzy Wine Co, situated at 6719 N.E. 18th Ave. With five stars out of 62 reviews on Yelp, the wine bar has proven to be a local favorite. Story continues 3. Les Caves: A Winery Bar Photo: Mollie M./Yelp Vernon's Les Caves: A Winery Bar, located at 1719 N.E. Alberta St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the wine bar 4.5 stars out of 44 reviews. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Photo credit: Getty Images From Car and Driver Even an automotive novice knows that neglecting to change a car's oil can lead to serious trouble. Perhaps the most basic of all basic maintenance items, the humble oil change has spawned many a question. How many quarts does my car take? How often should I change its oil? Should I change the oil by a certain date or by mileage since the last oil change? Is the change interval different for synthetic oil? What's the worst that could happen if I put it off? And then there's the key question being asked here: How much does an oil change cost? The price you will pay for an oil change depends on a number of factors. If you haven't cracked open your owner's manual in a while (or ever), this is the perfect opportunity. It'll tell you exactly what the automaker recommends for oil changes. It lists the required oil viscosity (the thickness of the oil), the engine's oil capacity, whether your vehicle takes conventional or synthetic oil, and exactly how often to change your oil based on how and in what conditions you drive. These are the key factors that affect the cost of an oil change, and they vary from vehicle to vehicle. When to Change Your Oil Photo credit: Getty Images Thanks to modern petroleum engineering, some automakers recommend 10,000 miles or more between oil changes. Regardless of what the Peppy Lube Guys' mechanic and their literature says, it's always wisest to go by the book and trust the automaker. Remember, they did engineer your vehicle in the first place, and it's in their interest for the vehicle to run as well as possible for as long as possible. After all, their name is on it. Why Change Your Oil What you don't want to do is ignore the need for oil and filter changes. If you do that, your oil could slowly turn into petroleum sludge, fail to flow through the engine, and cause the engine to fail. That could virtually total your automobile. What's more likely is that the oil lubricating your engine will lose some of its all-important lubricity and accelerate wear on the engine's internals. Clean, fresh oil minimizes friction, avoids wear-accelerating metal-on-metal contact between the mechanical bits spinning around inside, and can even help your fuel economy. And even good-running vehicles can burn off slight amounts of oil over time. Avoid oil changes long enough, and you may run your oil level dangerously low, imperiling the engine. Story continues Don't Change Your Oil Too Often That being said, as important as clean oil can be for the life of an engine, do not allow yourself to be tricked into changing your oil more frequently than necessary. The little sticker Valvo Jiff 'n' Pep stuck in the corner of your windshield saying you need an oil change in 3000 miles? In most cases, that 3000-mile interval is unnecessary and downright wasteful. Most vehicles driven in normal conditions can go 7500 to 10,000 miles between oil changeswhich also includes changing the oil filter. Why the Cost of an Oil Change Varies Photo credit: Getty Images As for cost, as with most auto maintenance and repairs, it depends. Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil, and some engines hold a lot more oil than others. For example, a first-generation Mazda Miata's little inline-four will need about 3.4 quarts, while the 3.0-liter diesel in a W123 Mercedes-Benz 300D demands more than double that: between seven and eight. Along with the cost of the golden slippery stuff, you'll need to fork over enough cash for an oil filter and whatever the shop charges for labor. You might assume you'll pay a little more for all of the above at a dealer, but we found that's not always true. Top-quality synthetic oil alone can cost between $20 and $30 for a five-quart bottle, so don't be surprised if an oil-change place charges $50 to $75 for oil and a filter replacement. To confirm that price range, we checked three locations that do oil changesone of them a dealernear our Ann Arbor, Michigan, office. Using a fictitious 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata, which uses synthetic oil, as our price tester, we found that the cost of an oil and filter change varied from $69 at the dealer all the way to $95 at the more expensive of the two oil-change locations; the middle location came in at $75. DIY and Save Of course, if you're even modestly mechanically inclined and have the tools and time, lay down some cardboard, drop the drain plug, and get greasy! Changing your own oil might be the least intimidating way to start learning how to work on a car, and in most cases shouldn't take more than an hour. Plus, you'll save on labor! We found the appropriate oil and filter for our imaginary Miata on Amazon for a total of $33, so the savings can be significant if you're doing it yourself. Either way, now you know how much an oil change can cost. You Might Also Like Americas Iran Plans Suffer from a Double-Bind The Triangle Drama of the United States, Iran, and China Starting in May, the White House hopes to extinguish Irans oil exports. However, any destabilization may prove counter-productive and cause long-term damage to the United States, the region and global prospects. For three years, the nuclear accord (JCPOA) offered Iran relief from the multilateral sanctions on energy, financial, shipping, automotive and other sectors. The shift in the U.S. policy began in late 2016, when the Congress extended the Iran Sanctions Act for a decade. That emboldened Trump's unipolar stance. But what are the immediate economic and strategic implications? Implications of three-step destabilization Regionally, Trumps stance leans on Saudi Arabia for economic and geopolitical support, as evidenced by the $110 billion arms deal with Riyadh in 2017, and reinforced security ties with Israel. The increasing convergence of the U.S., Saudi and Israeli interests in the Middle East reflects a quest for regional primacy. Initially, John Bolton, Trumps neoconservative national security advisor, urged Trump to bury the JCPOA and push for a regime change before February 2019; the 50th anniversary of the Iranian revolution. The new timeline is more flexible, but the old objectives remain. The three-step destabilization was started with the rejection of JCPOA (juridical pressure), which was followed by sanctions (to cause economic pain) that would provide the pretext for regime change (military intervention in the name of peace and democracy). Despite deficiencies, data on Irans crude oil indicates some trends. According to OPEC, Irans crude oil production remained around 3.8 million barrels per day until the 2012 sanctions, which caused the capacity to plunge to 3 million. Following the JCPOA, Irans production soared rapidly back to 4 million barrels. With Trumps electoral triumph and the concerted effort at regime change, the capacity has steadily decreased to less than 3.7 million barrels (Figure 1). Figure 1 Irans Crude Oil Production, 2009-2019 (000s b/d) If Irans production capacity takes a hit, that will penalize particularly its biggest importers; that is, China, India, South Korea and Turkey which accounted for two-thirds of all Iranian exports in 2017, along with Japan, Turkey, Europe (Italy, France), and UAE (Figure 2). Consequently, the strategic responses to U.S. sanctions by Irans major export destinations matter. Available data on oil purchases in the past 6-12 months indicate that China, India and Turkey have reduced their buys by about 25%, respectively; Japan by 20% and South Korea almost entirely. Yet, the role of unknown sources in Irans oil exports has quadrupled. Figure 2 Irans Oil Exports by Countries, 2017 (% share of total) Conversely, import diversification tells something about their degree of reliance on Iran. Last year, Chinas largest crude oil importer was Russia, followed by Saudi Arabia, Angola and Iraq. These top-4 suppliers accounted for half of Chinas total oil imports. Among them, Iran ranked seventh accounting for 6.3% of the Chinese total. In turn, Indias largest suppliers featured Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran and Nigeria, which accounted some 60 percent of the total. Among these, Iran was third, accounting for 11% of the total - that is, twice as much as to China in relative terms (Figure 3). Figure 3 Key Oil Importers of China and India, 2018 (% share of total) Last year, global purchases of imported crude oil totaled $1.2 trillion reflecting robust demand from 129 countries. Asian countries accounted for more than half of the total. The largest oil importer was China (20.2% of total crude oil importers), followed by the U.S. (13.8%), India (9.7%) and Japan (6.8%) (Figure 5). Figure 4 Worlds Leading Oil Importers, 2018 ($ billion, % of total) Obstacles to the regime change ploy In May 2018, Trump had the U.S. withdraw from the JCPOA, while pledging to reimpose U.S. secondary sanctions by November 2018. The reinstatement drove Irans economy into mild recession as major companies exited the Iranian economy rather than risk being penalized by the U.S. Irans oil exports have decreased significantly, and the value of Irans currency has declined sharply. The EU and some other countries are trying to sustain the economic benefits of the JCPOA flowing to Iran hoping to keep Tehran in the accord. From Irans viewpoint, these efforts have been promising, but remain far from adequate. Geopolitically, the destabilization of Iran is designed to foster the regional supremacy of Americas key allies in the region, particularly Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states. Strategically, the Iran sanctions serve major oil exporters which just happen to be among the key suppliers of both China and India, respectively - that is, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the Gulf (Oman, Kuwait, UAE, Qatar). Nevertheless, the Trump hawks' Iran plans are based on misguided assumptions. Saudi Arabia and UAE can boost higher production levels some of the time, but not all of the time. A protracted effort could destabilize markets further. More importantly, Saudi Arabia (and the U.S.) can offer mainly "light crude oil," but not heavy oil, which many countries need for refined oil products - and which Iran can offer. Furthermore, China and Turkey, which oppose U.S. unilateralism, along with possibly India and some EU allies, will try to work around U.S. sanctions for economic, geopolitical and development reasons. While China is not critically reliant on Iranian oil, it vehemently opposes unipolar bullying. There is also the last-resort scenario. If the White House will push Iran against the wall, it could close the Strait of Hormuz - which none of oil exporters and importers want. The Trump administration believes that Americas military superiority, economic clout and energy dominance suffice to undermine the JCPOA and achieve regime change. Yet, U.S. shale oil is not adequate to dictate unipolar terms to the rest of the international community. Moreover, most Americans see U.S. involvement against Iran as an unnecessary risk. Finally, U.S. economic power is overshadowed by its $22 trillion sovereign debt and the end of the expansionary cycle. Global repercussions The JCPOA fostered Irans economic development, which would have had a constructive effect on its regional role. U.S. efforts at regime change have not played out expectedly even in Venezuela; and Iran is far more capable and determined to defend its rights in the international arena, with the support of much of the international community. Economically, sanctions against any major oil exporter will diminish total capacity worldwide and boost crude prices. Before the 2008 global crisis, oil prices soared to almost $150 per barrel. After a severe plunge to $40, they returned to $100 in the early 2010s. As the Feds rate hikes caused the U.S. dollar to strengthen, oil prices, which remain denominated in dollars, plunged to mid-$20s. Since then, Fed hikes have normalized and U.S. dollar steadied, which supports rising prices (Figure 6). Figure 5 Oil Prices, 2000-2019 Until the late 1960s, America was still an oil exporter. In the past half a century, it has been an importer, which has constrained its geopolitical aspirations. That is now changing. To President Trump, Americas energy dominance means not just economic, but geopolitical muscle. That explains much of recent U.S. assertiveness and regime change plans in Iran (and Venezuela). Yet, U.S. production accounts for barely 15% of global output, which limits its ability to move global oil markets. Despite its vocal threats, the Trump White House is in a double-bind. If it does not deliver regime change in Iran, it will be seen as a paper tiger, which will further erode U.S. credibility in the Middle East. If it executes its violent plans, the result could be years of violent turmoil, destabilized region, derailed global prospects - and oil prices exposed to new supply shocks. Dr Steinbock is the founder of the Difference Group and has served as the research director at the India, China, and America Institute (USA) and a visiting fellow at the Shanghai Institutes for International Studies (China) and the EU Center (Singapore). For more information, see http://www.differencegroup.net/ 2019 Copyright Dan Steinbock - 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. Dan Steinbock Archive 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. In gross violation of Justice Department policy and constitutional norms, a prosecutor neither charges nor recommends charges against a suspect, but proceeds to smear him by publishing 200 pages of obstruction allegations. Asked to explain why he did it, the prosecutor says he was just trying to protect the suspect from being smeared. This is the upshot of the Mueller reports Volume II. It might be thought campy if the suspect werent the president of the United States and the stakes werent so high. The smear-but-dont-charge outcome is the result of two wrongs: (1) Muellers dizzying application of Justice Department guidance, written by the Office of Legal Counsel (OLC), holding that a president may not be indicted while he is in office; and (2) the media-Democrat complexs demand that only laws they like those that serve their anti-Trump political purposes be enforced. On the matter of the OLC guidance, the Mueller report exhibits the same sleight-of-hand that I detailed in Mondays column regarding its account of the George Papadopoulos saga in which Mueller obscures the fact that the FBIs counterintelligence investigation (Crossfire Hurricane) was opened on the false pretense that a Russian agent named Joseph Mifsud confided to Trump adviser Papadopoulos that Russia had thousands of Clinton emails, which Papadopoulos told Australian diplomat Alexander Downer the Kremlin planned to publish in a manner timed to damage Clinton for Trumps benefit. To the contrary, if you wade through the fine print of Muellers report, you learn that Mifsud was not a Russian agent; theres a good chance he did not tell Papadopoulos anything about emails; in relating to Downer that Russia might have damaging information on Clinton, Papadopoulos said nothing about emails or about Russia trying to help Trump; but, two months after they spoke and the hacked DNC emails were published, Downer (in consultation with the Obama State Department) leapt to the overwrought conclusions that Papadopoulos must have been referring to those emails (he wasnt) and that Russia and the Trump campaign must be collaborating to undermine the election (they werent). Story continues The narrative head fakes and legal mumbo-jumbo make you wonder whats going on here. Who is running this show, Mueller or some of his notoriously aggressive staffers, recruited from the Obama Justice Department and private practice stints representing the Clintons? On the matter of the OLC guidance, if you can follow his reasoning, the special counsel twists himself into the position that it would have been unfairly prejudicial to Trump to recommend charges when the president would not have been able to defend himself in a judicial proceeding but, somehow, it was perfectly fair to Trump for Mueller to publish his evidence in a document manifestly written for exploitation by congressional Democrats and the media. Flaws in the OLC Guidance For what its worth, I have always thought the OLC guidance is wrong. I do not believe the Framers intended to insulate a sitting president from indictment. The Constitution presumes that the check on a rogue president will be impeachment. It elaborates, however, that impeachment is no impediment to indictment. Further, the Constitution does not say that indictment must await either impeachment or other departure from office. (Article I, Section 3, says a party convicted of impeachment is liable to court prosecution, but this does not necessarily mean prosecution may occur only after a president either has been convicted in a Senate impeachment trial, or his term otherwise ends.) While there was significant discussion of impeachment when the Constitution was being drafted in 1787 (I outlined much of it in Faithless Execution), I doubt the Framers gave much thought to the timing of a presidents indictment. There were no federal prosecutors to speak of at the time (there was no Justice Department until 1870 and no FBI until 1908), and the federal Constitution would not have barred action by state prosecutors. The Constitution presumes it is Congresss job to check a wayward president and not a job to be delegated to a prosecutor. More to the point, it makes no sense that a president should be spared indictment under seal. This is how the Justice Department routinely deals with cases in which (a) a crime must be charged to prevent the statute of limitations from lapsing, but (b) the indictment should not be publicized for some good policy reason (usually, because the accused is at large and, if put on notice, could flee and destroy evidence). The OLC guidances objective is simply to delay prosecution in deference to the chief executives weighty responsibilities; it is not supposed to put the president above the law by giving him a statute-of-limitations defense that would not be available to the rest of us. Consequently, if there is a truly serious offense and enough evidence to support prosecution, a president should be indicted under seal (i.e., under court-supervised secrecy). Then the indictment could be unsealed once a president is out of office, and the criminal case could proceed in the normal course. Whether I am right or wrong about this, it is indisputable that we are talking only about timing. The OLC guidance does not say a president may never be indicted; just that he cant be indicted while serving. Indefensible Decision Not to Decide That means the OLC guidance should be irrelevant to the prosecutor investigating the case. Even if we stipulate, for arguments sake, that a president may not be indicted in the here and now, he may still be prosecuted for any indictable offense at some future point. Therefore, someone must decide if there is a crime worth charging. That someone, obviously, is the prosecutor assigned to investigate the case. Since there is no bar on investigating a sitting president, it makes no sense to refrain from making the prosecution judgment to charge or not to charge until later (potentially, years later) when witnesses memories have faded and evidence has gone stale or missing. If there is sufficient evidence, then it is the prosecutors job to recommend indictment. The question of whether the OLC guidance should then be invoked to delay indictment should then be up to the attorney general. The guidance should not burden the prosecutors analysis of whether there is an indictable case. Yet Mueller chose not to see it that way. His thinking on the matter, it appears, was muddled, evolving over a few weeks time as he groped for a way to rationalize his failure to make a decision about whether obstruction should be charged. In recent Senate testimony, Attorney General Bill Barr related that he and his staff met with the Mueller team a couple of weeks before the report was completed. Mueller surprised them with the news that he would not be resolving the obstruction question. When asked to explain, Mueller said his rationale for this non-decision was not yet fully developed such temporizing, of course, is often the sign of handwringing as one tries to rationalize a determination one knows is wrong. Nevertheless, Barr reports that Mueller was emphatic that the OLC guidance was not what drove his decision to abdicate. Yet when we finally saw the Mueller report, we found that the obstruction volume begins with a discussion of the OLC guidance. It is, by turns, vaporous and preposterous. It is no wonder Barr has said he does not know exactly what Mueller was thinking. Heres my take. Mueller deduces that the guidance (a) prohibits indictment in order to avoid a public charge that would undermine the capacity of a president to govern, but (b) permits investigation with an eye toward post-presidency prosecution. The special counsel pretends that this gives him fairness concerns over the presidents due-process rights: If, after a thorough investigation, a prosecutor made a judgment that the president had committed a crime but did not charge him, Mueller reasons that the poor president would bear all the stigma of a criminal accusation but would have no opportunity to clear his name in formal court proceedings. That is, the OLC guidance denies him his day in court. Mind you: Mueller says this as a precis to pouring out over 200 pages worth of obstruction evidence and, implying that this evidence is quite serious indeed, he is at pains to tell you he will not exonerate the president, even though he hasnt charged him. That is, Muellers report is designed to taint the president when he does not have the constitutional protections of a criminal defendant exactly the thing Mueller claimed to be avoiding by not making a decision on obstruction. Of course, there would be no such danger if the report had been kept confidential, as federal regulations require. There would be no such danger if Mueller had simply done his job, made the required binary decision about whether or not the evidence supported indictment, and left the application of the OLC guidance to the attorney general. And there would be no such danger if the OLC guidance provided for a sealed indictment, such that the question of whether prosecution is warranted could be resolved now, and the timing of prosecution could be tabled for the president sake, and the countrys until the end of Trumps term (or terms). This would have had no bearing on Congresss ability to consider impeachment. It would also have allowed for internal Justice Department deliberation over the law of obstruction. Right now, the report has been publicized when it should not have been. Moreover, Attorney General Barr had to know that if he had tinkered with the reports legal analysis, this would have resulted in cries that he was protecting the president, so he had to stay his hand. As a result, the Mueller reports construction of federal obstruction law appears to stand as a definitive Justice Department position, even though Muellers interpretation is controversial the attorney general has indicated that he and the deputy attorney general have disagreements with it; I suspect OLC would have qualms, too. A live debate over the correct construction of unsettled law, or its novel application, is something the Justice Department is supposed to sort out internally before publicizing a voluminous set of allegations. Here, the special counsels legal argument almost surely does not reflect the Justice Departments position. But the politics have landed us in the place, not the law. Democrats and their echo chamber have insisted that Mueller must write a report because the special-counsel regulations require one. Yet the same regulations require the report to be confidential: just between the special counsel and the attorney general, to resemble how charging decisions are always made in the Justice Department non-publicly, by prosecutors and their supervisors. If Barr had followed those supposedly binding federal regulations, House Democrats would already have impeached him just as they now ridiculously propose to hold him in contempt for redacting from Muellers report grand-jury information he is legally obligated by congressional statute to withhold. The closer you look at this fiasco, the worse it seems. More from National Review The special counsels office sought to keep secret the memos written by former FBI director James Comey in an attempt to stop those under investigation such as Donald Trump from tailoring their stories to line up with Mr Comeys accounts, according to a court transcript made public on Tuesday. Lawyers for the special counsel, Robert Mueller, made their arguments in a closed-door hearing in January 2018 before a federal judge, who was overseeing a lawsuit to have memos Mr Comey wrote about his interactions with the president released to the public. News organisations had sued the Justice Department over access to the memos, but the case became moot when Congress made them public three months later. The judge ordered a transcript of the hearing to be released on Tuesday. The transcript provides a window into the status of the special counsels investigation eight months after Mr Mueller began examining whether Mr Trump obstructed justice, among other issues. At the hearing, one of Mr Muellers top lawyers, Michael Dreeben, tried to illustrate the severity of the investigation, the questions over the presidents conduct and the potential benefits for witnesses who had read Mr Comeys memos. An individual who is seeking to shape or mould his own statements around those of others thereby acquires an advantage in doing so that he would not otherwise have, Mr Dreeben said, according to the transcript. Mr Dreeben acknowledged to the judge, James Boasberg of the US District Court for the District of Columbia, that Mr Trump was being investigated for obstructing justice and that the FBI had opened that inquiry before Mr Muellers appointment in May 2017. That investigation entailed matters that were covered in the Comey memoranda, which explored and recorded Mr Comeys recollections of meetings, including one-on-one meetings with the president of the United States, Mr Dreeben said, referring to the initial FBI inquiry. In those meetings, events occurred that led the FBI to conclude that an investigation was appropriate under its authority to consider matters such as obstruction of justice. Story continues Mr Dreeben added, In this instance, a person whose conduct is within the scope of the investigation is the president of the United States. Details of the transcript were first reported on Tuesday by CNN. Many details from Mr Comeys memos had already been made public at the time of the hearing. The New York Times reported in May 2017 that Mr Trump had asked Mr Comey for his loyalty and for an end to the investigation into his former national security adviser, Michael Flynn. The day after The Times reported on the Flynn encounter, Mr Mueller was appointed. The next month, Mr Comey testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee about his interactions with the president. Mr Dreeben said that although many parts of the memos had been previously revealed, it was still important to keep them away from those whose conduct was being scrutinised. Those memoranda are also far more detailed in many instances than the matters that Mr Comey revealed either in his statement for the record or in his oral testimony before the Senate, Mr Dreeben said. He said that because Mr Comeys memos were written contemporaneously, witnesses would want their accounts to line up with the memos. Things like Mr Comeys memos are typically held in confidence through the course of the investigation and any ensuing proceedings to ensure that all witnesses provide truthful evidence based on their own recollections and not on any inadvertent or advertent tailoring or influence from other witness statements. Mr Muellers office ultimately lost the battle but not in the courtroom. In April 2018, the Justice Department provided copies to members of Congress, which immediately released them to the public. A year after the memos became public, Mr Mueller finished his investigation and declined to decide whether the president obstructed justice. The attorney general, William Barr, cleared the president of wrongdoing. But in his report, Mr Mueller detailed more than a dozen episodes that legal experts believe show how Mr Trump sought to interfere with the investigation. Among them were several of the encounters Mr Comey detailed in his memos. The New York Times House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., is threatening to hold former White House counsel Don McGahn in contempt if he does not testify before Congress later this month. "I fully expect that the Committee will hold Mr. McGahn in contempt if he fails to appear before the Committee, unless the White House secures a court order directing otherwise," Nadler wrote in a letter Tuesday to McGahn's lawyer, William Burck. Nadler's latest correspondence comes hours after the White House told McGahn not to provide any of his records to Congress. The New York congressman also said that regardless of whether executive privilege is claimed by the administration, McGahn is required by law to "appear before the Committee to provide testimony, and invoke executive privilege where appropriate." Last month, Nadler issued a subpoena to McGahn to testify before the House Judiciary Committee on May 21, as well as provide the committee with documents in the former White House counsel's possession by May 7. More: Donald Trump's team tells former WH counsel Don McGahn: Don't give Congress any records In addition, Nadler said that in Burck's letter submitted to Congress on Tuesday morning, no executive privilege was actually invoked, "but rather merely suggested at the 11th hour without providing any supporting authority that all requested documents 'implicate significant Executive Branch confidential interests and executive privilege.'" "This blanket suggestion of potential privilege is entirely insufficient," Nadler wrote. White House counsel Pat Cipollone in a letter to Burck said that because McGahn was White House counsel at the time, his records are "legally protected from disclosure under longstanding constitutional principles because they implicate significant Executive Branch confidentiality interests and executive privilege." Cipollone also sent a similar letter to Nadler, requesting that the committee chairman direct any records requests to the White House. Story continues Burck in a letter to Nadler said that McGahn will not release his records until the committee and White House come to a consensus as to what should be done with the documents. Nadler, however, in his Tuesday evening letter argued that President Donald Trump cannot properly invoke executive privilege because of a D.C. Ciruit ruling that says the White House "'waive[s] its claims of privilege in regard to specific documents that it voluntarily reveal[s] to third parties outside the White House.' What is contempt?: Democrats could hold AG Barr in contempt of Congress. More: Congress could hold AG William Barr in contempt. How often does that happen? The president has repeatedly suggested that he could invoke executive privilege to prevent McGahn from testifying before Congress. Last week, Trump also said during an interview on Fox News: "I don't think I can let him and then tell everybody else you can because especially him because he was the counsel." He later added of continued questions in the wake of Mueller's 448-page report: "Congress shouldn't be looking anymore. It's done." Nadler also argued that the White House must file an action in court to properly invoke executive privilege to block McGahn from testifying. Nadler said, however, that he doesn't believe that executive privilege "could be asserted in good faith regarding the subject of the Special Counsel's investigation and report" because the adminsitration has already waived the privilege in multiple ways when it comes to McGahn. "As has long been recognized, no personnot even the Presidentcan employ privilege as both a sword and a shield, selectively cherry picking which information to tout publicly in his defense, and which information to deliberately withhold from the American people," Nadler wrote. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nadler threatens to hold McGahn in contempt if he does not testify to Congress WASHINGTON (AP) -- The New York Times reported Tuesday that Donald Trump's businesses lost more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, based on tax information the newspaper acquired. The Times said it has acquired printouts from the future president's official IRS tax transcripts, including figures from his federal tax form. The newspaper said Trump reported business losses of $46.1 million in 1985, and a total of $1.17 billion in losses for the 10-year period. After comparing Trump's information with that of other "high-income earners," the Times concluded that Trump "appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer." Because of his business losses, the newspaper reported, Trump did not pay income taxes for eight of the 10 years. The House Ways and Means Committee has asked the IRS to provide Trump's personal and business returns for 2013 through 2018. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday refused to do so, saying the panel's request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose." Mnuchin's move, which had been expected, is likely to set a legal battle into motion. The chief options available to Democrats are to subpoena the IRS for the returns or to file a lawsuit. Trump is the first president since Watergate to decline to make his tax returns public. Nigel Farage believes MPs do not understand the level in angry in the country over Brexit (Getty) Nigel Farage has warned politicians that they do not understand the level of anger in the country over Brexit. With the Brexit Party riding high in the polls, Mr Farage believes a General Election is possible - and discontent would be felt. He told Good Morning Britain: Collapse of the Government, a motion of no confidence could spark a General Election. Either way, do not underestimate, I think Westminster does not get how angry this country is. Do not underestimate the power and the potency of the Brexit Party, to completely change the numbers. The Brexit Party leader believes the European elections will 'change everything' Buoyed on by his new party lead in the polls, Mr Farage believes the upcoming European elections will change everything. He added: I think, I could be wrong, I think this new Brexit Party that I set up four weeks ago has kind of appeared like a jack in a box. I think we are going to win these European elections. Possibly win them in quite a big way. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Mixed-race royal baby 'will not suffer racism in the UK' Theresa May faces yet another leadership threat Missing piece of Stonehenge returned 60 years after it vanished What you will then see, is the people who are voting for us in a European election, are going to say do you know what, I am going to vote for these people in a General Election too. People out there have had enough of not being told the truth. They have had enough of Brexit not being delivered. Mr Farages march to win the European elections continued this week as he targeted Tory donors frustrated at Theresa May's leadership. Mr Farage has seen the Brexit Party surge in popularity in just one month (Getty) The former Ukip leader said the party had already raised "well over" 2 million to fight the European contests, with 90% of it from some 88,000 registered supporters paying 25 each, although a 100,000 donation had also been received. But he said "much bigger donors, traditionally donors to the Conservative Party" were now in conversations with the Brexit Party "because they understand and realise that to fight a general election seriously we are going to need big bucks. Story continues Previously loyal Tory donors were "asking themselves the question 'what is the Conservative Party for, what purpose does it actually serve?". Brexit supporters are set to vote in their droves for the Brexit Party in the upcoming election (Getty) He claimed the talks between Mrs May's Government and Jeremy Corbyn's Labour to strike a Brexit compromise meant they were forming a "coalition against the people. At a press conference in London, Mr Farage said the Brexit Party's door would be open for talks with Eurosceptics from other parties about possible local pacts in constituencies to avoid splitting the vote. But highlighting the decision by Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab to back Mrs May's Brexit deal at the third time of asking, Mr Farage said it was "very difficult to work out in the final analysis who, in that case, you could really trust" and so the party's priority was to fight a full national campaign. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo News UK A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration can continue returning Central American migrants to Mexico while their asylum claims are being adjudicated in U.S. immigration courts. A three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a federal trial judges April ruling, which blocked the administrations so-called Remain in Mexico policy on the grounds that it endangers asylum seekers by forcing them to return to Mexico where they may face violence or suffer from lack of humanitarian resources. The policy, announced in a December 2018 memo by then-Secretary of Homeland Security Kierstjen Nielsen, was designed to curtail the so-called catch-and-release system, in which migrants make fraudulent asylum claims with the knowledge that they will be released into the U.S. for months or even years before their court date, which they may or may not appear for. Aliens trying to game the system to get into our country illegally will no longer be able to disappear into the United States, where many skip their court dates. Instead, they will wait for an immigration court decision while they are in Mexico, Nielsen wrote in the memo. The administration can continue implementing the policy for now but a lower court must still rule on its merits, and, depending on that ruling, the case may end up before the Supreme Court. In the order filed Tuesday, the appellate court acknowledged the strain placed on the Department of Homeland Security by the massive number of Central American asylum seekers arriving at the border each day, which rose to a 13-year high in March. If the policy were blocked, the judges wrote, DHS would suffer irreparable harm because the preliminary injunction takes off the table one of the few congressionally authorized measures available to process the approximately 2,000 migrants who are currently arriving at the Nations southern border on a daily basis. More from National Review One New Jersey politician wants to amend a bill that would ban plastic bags to make it even stricter by banning paper bags as well. State senator Bob Smith (D., Middlesex) said he got the idea while on vacation in Aruba, where the bag laws are very strict. Nobodys grumbling, Smith told NJ.com about the islands residents bringing their own bags to the store. Everybody in the line, they all do it. According to NJ.com, Aruba bans retailers from handing out plastic bags, and charges an approximately 28-cent fee for paper ones. But Smith, of course, wants to make his bag ban even more severe, banning retailers from distributing paper bags altogether. The purpose, of course, would be to limit litter. But would Smiths idea have the impact on the environment that he really wants it to have? In a column for Reason, Christian Britschgi writes that hes inclined to think that it wouldnt. For one thing, he notes the fact that although Californias plastic bag ban did reduce plastic bag consumption overall, a study of its impact found that it also led to a 120 percent spike in the purchase of smaller garbage bags. This makes sense. After all, most people dont just throw away the plastic bags that they get at the grocery store; they use them for other things. Im going to keep it honest and admit that I havent really gone grocery shopping in years (its always seemed pointless to me to cook for one), but I know that the plastic bags I get from my (endless stream of) delivery food orders always go toward other purposes. For example, I use them to clean my cats litter box because paper bags are impossible to tie shut, and Im not going to throw loose cat waste down the garbage chute because I am not a sociopath. The fact that a reusable bag would be even less practical for this purpose should be obvious, but in case it isnt, let me spell it out: I tend to not really want to keep things once they have been touched with cat sh**, and I dont think that Im alone in that. I also use either plastic or paper (instead of reusable) bags to line my small bathroom garbage can, because I feel the same way about snot. Story continues Now that plastic bags are going to be banned in New York, I can fully admit that this does not mean I am going to start, say, dumping cat sh** into my purse and carrying it to the trash chute. No Im just going to buy more plastic garbage bags. Whats more, if something like this strict all-bag ban idea were to ever take effect, Id have to use even more plastic ones than I already do, because I wouldnt have any paper ones around for other single-use purposes such as lining that bathroom trash can. I cant say what the impact overall would be, but I can say that, at least for me, my environmental footprint would be worse. Speaking of environmental footprints, Britschgi also points out that those reusable tote bags that Smith so proudly watched Arubans using in their stores unfortunately have their own negative environmental impacts. In fact, as Britschgi notes, that same study of Californias bag ban actually found that reusable cotton bags would have to be reused 131 times in order to have the same impact on the climate as single-use plastic bags. Thats a lot of times to have to use one of those bags to make it worth it, and its not like theyre most durable things in the world. The handles can fray and break, holes can form from wear-and-tear, food can spill inside of them, they can get lost. To me, it seems highly unlikely that anyone has ever used one of those bags 131 times and if they have, thats kind of nasty, because something thats been used that many times to carry raw chicken around probably isnt the cleanest thing in the world. Finally, Britschgi writes that hes concerned that the all-bag ban might actually increase other kinds of litter. As he points out, a survey of the states roadside litter found that things such as cups and candy wrappers tend to become litter more than any type of bag. Its also possible that a total bag ban could encourage more littering in some instances, as shoppers would have no ready receptacle to collect the wrappers, cups, or containers that came with their purchase, Britschgi writes. Now, I completely understand that Smiths heart must have been in the right place with his idea. Theres nothing wrong with wanting to minimize litter and protect the environment. In fact, I think that doing so is very important. The thing is, though, government intervention can sometimes have unintended consequences and its important to examine and consider those before making new rules. More from National Review Earth vs. The Human Amoeba A few days ago, I received a video of an April 22 (Earth Day) lecture by my longtime friend Nate Hagens. Nate and I both owe a lot concerning our view and understanding of the world to Jay Hanson, who tragically died about a month ago on a diving trip in Indonesia. Many people have written and thought about issues of energy, or economics, or ecology; Jay brought it all together and, crucially, added the human brain and genetic properties to the mix. Teaching at the University of Minnesota, Nate has greatly expanded on this big picture, and produces -among other things- a lot of video material for his students. Lucky them: a view with so much breadth and depth at the same time is exceedingly rare. What most people dont get is that you can say: we can do so-and-so, but its mostly just in theory. In practice, our brains make us react much different from the theory. Because its not our rational brain that drives us, its our amoeba brain. We have to work very hard, and be very self-critical, to escape the trap, that, as Nate formulates it, dictates that: Thermodynamics, expressed through genetics, creates beings incapable of not maximizing energy consumption. We can even wonder if we can escape it at all. Nates position on this is more positive than mine. So I guess if you follow the theoreticals, youll be more inclined to listen to him than to me. Because theres more dopamine to be gotten there. And denial is our main engine. Two pics from the video of Nates lecture which you can find below give an idea of what is our problem, at least the energy part of it: One man with a chainsaw (powered by fossil fuels) can do the work of 100 men. Which means that with about 5 billion of us in the global work force, our present day consumption of fossil fuels provides us with the labor subsidy of the equivalent of some 500 billion people. A lot more of Nates video material can be found here and here (5 hours). You can also visit Nates new site, Institute for the Study of Energy and Our Future. And here are a few of his quotes: Things that cant continue usually stop too late. Each time history repeats itself, the price goes up. While it digs its own grave, all the mind can do is entertain fantasies and create excuses. Meaning comes from understanding why we can understand there is no meaning. Thermodynamics, expressed through genetics, creates beings incapable of not maximizing energy consumption. All 8 billion of us owe our existence to a six-inch layer of topsoil and the fact it rains; 6 billion of us also owe our existence to nitrogen fertilizer created from natural gas by Haber-Bosch factories. Dr. Nathan John Hagens worked on Wall Street at Lehman Brothers and Salomon Brothers and closed his own hedge fund in 2003 to pursue interdisciplinary knowledge about the bigger picture of modern society. Nate was the lead editor of the online web portal theoildrum.com, and is currently President of the Bottleneck Foundation and on the Boards of the Post Carbon Institute, Institute for Energy and Our Future, and IIER. Nate teaches at the University of Minnesota. Nate Hagens: Earth Day Talk, Stockholm Wisconsin, April 22, 2019 This is a story about our culture, arriving at a period I refer to as The Great Simplification. This story explains why things in the environment and social sphere are getting worse not better, and why we wont en masse do anything meaningful until we get emotional cues to do so. Obviously this is a bit of a buzzkill to hear about especially on a nice spring day but imo we have to understand the current game board and rules if were to make good game moves as future events arrive. The more people who are aware of and start to engage on the choreography of these issues in their communities and in their own lives, the higher the chances of a networked, creative response will be. My hope with these and other videos is to change the initial conditions of these future events in a positive way. Because we have a lot to lose -and also gain. By Raul Ilargi Meijer Website: http://theautomaticearth.com (provides unique analysis of economics, finance, politics and social dynamics in the context of Complexity Theory) 2019 Copyright Raul I Meijer - 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. Raul Ilargi Meijer Archive 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. The New York state Senate on Wednesday passed legislation that would give Congress unfettered access to President Trumps state tax returns. The bill, which passed 3921, must now pass the state Assembly before being signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo. If passed, the bill would allow the New York commissioner of taxation and finance to provide an individuals state tax returns to the chairmen of Congresss tax committees provided they serve a legitimate legislative purpose, and as long as Congress has also requested the individuals federal tax returns from the Treasury Department. Democratic lawmakers in New York have argued that they have a unique responsibility to help Congress gain greater insight into Trumps financial history, since the administration has stonewalled all of Democrats requests for his federal returns. New York, as the home of the Presidents state returns, has a special role and responsibility to step into the breach, Democratic state senator Brad Hoylman wrote on Twitter ahead of the vote. Washington has failed to act. We intend to lead. New York Republicans, meanwhile, argued that the legislation would compromise the privacy of residents, since it will apply to all New Yorkers, not just public figures. This is wrong, said Republican state senator Andrew Lanza. I dont want members of Congress deciding when they can attack citizens of New York. Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin on Monday rejected House Ways and Means Committee chairman Richard Neals request for Trumps personal and business tax returns from 2013 through 2018, on the grounds that it does not serve a legitimate legislative purpose. Neal said Wednesday that he will proceed directly to challenging the administration in court, rather than issuing further subpoenas or holding administration members in contempt. The New York senate also passed legislation cementing state prosecutors authority to prosecute individuals who have been granted presidential pardons. More from National Review Many older Americans view Social Security as a financial workhorse for their golden years. Yet the program provides far less income than they think, partly because they tap the entitlement before reaching retirement age, a new survey shows. Forty-four percent of older Americans who are retired or plan to retire within 10 years see Social Security as their main source of retirement income, according to the February survey of 1,315 adults age 50 or older by the Nationwide Retirement Institute, a unit of Nationwide Financial. And 26% believe they can live comfortably on Social Security alone. The misconceptions about Social Security are alarming, says Tina Ambrozy, Nationwides president of sales and distribution. If you think about how many are relying on Social Security to be their main source of income, it really is scary. The 44% putting that much faith in Social Security is down from 55% in Nationwides retirement survey last year. A bull market likely has beefed up older Americans retirement accounts and other investments, allowing some to depend less heavily on Social Security, Ambrozy says. Start saving now: How much retirement savings will you need? Try 16.4 times your salary More at the market: Prices for Mexican tomatoes expected to increase 40% to 85% with new tariff Yet the figure is still too high, she says. People who plan to retire within 10 years expect to receive an average $1,805 a month in Social Security benefits. Current retirees, however, are collecting $1,408 monthly on average, a 28% deficit, the survey shows. Social Security probably isnt going to be enough, Ambrozy says. One reason for the gap is retirees are drawing benefits early, providing them a lower monthly payout. Seventy percent of those surveyed believe theyre eligible for full benefits before they actually are. On average, future retirees think they can tap Social Security at age 63. And 26% believe if they claim early, their benefits will automatically increase when they reach full retirement age. Story continues Uber, Lyft strike:Drivers in New York, other cities set to strike for two hours Wednesday In fact, retirees can only get partial benefits starting at 62 and once they do, the amount is locked in. For people who turned 62 last year, the retirement age to receive full benefits is 66. The size of the monthly check continues to rise from 62 to 70, based on when applicants initially claim. More than half of older adults dont plan to draw Social Security before full retirement age. Yet the most common age to claim is 62, according to the survey. Of current retirees who file early, 61% cited living expenses. Other reasons: supplementing their income (36%), a layoff (26%) and health issues (22%). Despite their reliance on Social Security, two-thirds of future retirees worry the program will run out of funding in their lifetime, the survey shows. Thats another big reason they tap benefits early, Ambrozy says. Other findings: The vast majority of people 50 and older expect to spend, or are spending, their Social Security on monthly bills and groceries. A third of retirees say health problems are interfering with their retirement. Eighty percent of those retired at least 10 years say the issues occurred earlier than expected, with most saying they happened five years sooner. Twenty-two percent of future retirees have a formal written retirement plan, compared to 19% of recent retirees and 17% of those retired at least 10 years. Tomato prices: Prices for Mexican tomatoes expected to increase 40% to 85% with new tariff This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Older Americans are relying too much on Social Security as a main source of income ATLANTA (AP) Opponents of a Georgia law banning abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected vow to take their fight from the state Capitol to the courthouse. Signed Tuesday by Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, the measure is one of the nation's most restrictive abortion laws and would effectively ban the procedure around six weeks of pregnancy, before many women know they are pregnant. Staci Fox, the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Southeast, said at a news conference that she had one message for Kemp: "We will see you, sir, in court." The organization also planned to campaign to unseat lawmakers who supported it, saying they would "be held accountable for playing politics with women's health." The legal director of the ACLU of Georgia, Sean Young, has said the measure is unconstitutional, and the group plans to challenge it in court. "Under 50 years of Supreme Court precedent, this abortion ban is clearly unconstitutional," Young said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. "Every federal court that has heard a challenge to a similar ban has ruled that it's unconstitutional." Kemp said he approved the bill "to ensure that all Georgians have the opportunity to live, grow, learn and prosper in our great state." The signing caps weeks of tension and protests at the state Capitol and begins what could be a lengthy and costly legal battle. "We will not back down," Kemp said, acknowledging the likelihood of a legal challenge. "We will always continue to fight for life." Anti-abortion activists and lawmakers across the country have been energized by the new conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court that includes President Donald Trump appointees Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh. They are pushing abortion bans in an attack on the high court's 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling, which legalized abortion nationwide until a fetus is developed enough to live outside a woman's uterus. Story continues Current law allows women in Georgia to seek an abortion during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. If it's not blocked in court, the new ban would take effect Jan. 1. The measure makes exceptions in the case of rape and incest if the woman files a police report first and to save the life of the mother. It also would allow for abortions when a fetus is determined not to be viable because of serious medical issues. In addition, the bill includes provisions for alimony, child support and even income tax deductions for fetuses, declaring that "the full value of a child begins at the point when a detectable human heartbeat exists." The legislation will result in $10 million to $20 million in lost tax revenue for the state each year, according to its author, Republican Rep. Ed Setzler. Setzler called the bill a "common sense" measure that seeks to "balance the difficult circumstances women find themselves in with the basic right to life of a child." But Democratic Sen. Jen Jordan said "there's nothing balanced about it: It's an all-out abortion ban." Jordan said she is particularly worried that the new law will push obstetricians away from practicing in Georgia, worsening health care outcomes for women in a state that already has one of the nation's worst maternal mortality rates. "It's about the unintended consequences," Jordan said. "They're making policy choices that are going to end up causing women to die, and they're preventable deaths." Georgia has at least 11 abortion providers, according to the National Abortion Federation, a group that advocates for access to abortion. Some providers have already faced negative effects from the bill, according to Wula Dawson, director of development and communications for the Feminist Women's Health Center, an abortion clinic in Georgia. Dawson said anti-abortion protesters outside their clinic have become "bolder and more aggressive" toward patients. In the first few months of 2019, "heartbeat" abortion bans have been signed into law in four states: Mississippi, Kentucky, Ohio, and now Georgia. Lawmakers in other states including Tennessee, Missouri, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, Louisiana and West Virginia, are considering similar proposals. A bill that recently passed the Alabama House would outlaw abortions at any stage of pregnancy, with a few narrow exceptions. Kentucky's law was immediately challenged by the ACLU after it was signed in March, and a federal judge temporarily blocked it. Earlier versions of the law passed in North Dakota and Iowa have also been struck down in court. According to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights, about 33,000 abortions were provided in Georgia in 2014. ___ Associated Press Writer Sanya Mansoor in Atlanta contributed to this report. ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - A Pakistani Taliban faction claimed responsibility for a blast that killed at least nine people in the eastern city of Lahore on Wednesday, the militants said in a statement. "This attack was carried out at a time when there were no civilians near the police," said Abdul Aziz Yousafzai, spokesman for the Hizbul Ahrar militant group, a faction of the Pakistani Taliban. (Reporting by Drazen Jorgic; Editing by Robert Birsel) Papa John's (PZZA) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.31 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.21 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.50 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items. This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 47.62%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this pizza chain would post earnings of $0.23 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.15, delivering a surprise of -34.78%. Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates just once. Papa John's, which belongs to the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry, posted revenues of $398.41 million for the quarter ended March 2019, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 6.46%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $427.37 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters. The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call. Papa John's shares have added about 34.3% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 17%. What's Next for Papa John's? While Papa John's has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock? There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately. Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions. Story continues Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Papa John's was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.22 on $370.29 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $1.10 on $1.50 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year. Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Retail - Restaurants is currently in the bottom 40% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Papa John's International, Inc. (PZZA) : Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research TEHRAN, Iran (AP) A jetliner flown by a subsidiary of Air France that made an emergency landing in Iran stayed on the ground for several hours Wednesday before flying to Dubai, according to the airline. The Airbus A340 flown by the low-cost carrier Joon was heading from Paris to Mumbai when it landed in the central Iran city of Isfahan. Joon said in a statement that the plane, operating as flight AF218, landed out of precaution over a malfunctioning ventilation circuit. Iran's state-run IRNA news agency said local authorities provided services to passengers. It said all were in good health. Air France said the plane was checked by local maintenance teams and then departed for Al Maktoun International Airport in Dubai, where it was expected to arrive early Thursday. Air France said it would re-route passengers to Mumbai on other airlines as soon as possible. In December, a Norwegian Air Boeing 737 Max made an emergency landing in Iran while flying from Dubai to Oslo. Passengers were able to leave the following day, but Norwegian's U.S.-made jet stayed in Iran for several weeks awaiting repairs. The airline cited paperwork involved in shipping aircraft parts to Iran because of U.S. sanctions against Tehran's nuclear program. When her two sons were younger, Sarah McCord says she was a stay-at-home mom. But as soon as her oldest hit high school, she went back to work with one goal in mind: using her pay to cover the kids' college tuition. "The cost of school, I think, is exorbitant, and I cant imagine how (a student) would recoup that if a kid were to finance that on their own,'' says McCord, whose salary from her job at a pharmaceutical company covers her younger son's roughly $17,000 a semester in tuition, room and board. "Entry level salaries just aren't going to make a dent in those payments.'' With Americans carrying $1.57 trillion in outstanding student loan debt, many families and students continue to borrow to cover the ever-escalating costs of college tuition. But some are also figuring out more creative ways to pay for higher education, from crowdfunding to corporate reimbursement programs to stashing cash back from purchases they make every day. "As college costs continue to rise and there seems to be no end in sight, the gap is going to get narrower and narrower at the top of who can really even afford this anymore,'' says Susan Dabbar, founder and CEO of AdmissionSmarts, which helps families navigate the college admissions process, from applications to affordability. "More and more people are going to be looking for all of these different ways...to figure out how are we really going to pay for this.'' So how are you going to pay for college? Last year, 57% of financial aid funding for undergraduate students came from grants, 34% from loans, 7.9% from education tax benefits and less than 1% from student jobs, says Mark Kantrowitz, publisher and vice president of research for Savingforcollege.com. Free money for college: Pondering how to survive a zombie apocalypse? Your plan could get you a scholarship Scholarships, offered by everyone from states to fraternal organizations, can also help cut the cost of tuition. And Jeff Levy, an independent educational consultant says "the most creative way to finance a college education is to find the colleges that are the most generous with financial aid, both need-based and non-need-based.'' Story continues The average discount from the published cost of attendance is 44% he says. "So for families who are smart about how to shop for college, they can easily cut the cost ... in half by putting sensible colleges on their child's list.'' Retire early: Can ordinary Americans find financial independence and stop work by 50? You don't need that: Average American spends almost $18,000 a year on nonessentials But Americans are also saving, utilizing tools like 529 plans, which offer tax advantages to families that invest in stocks and bonds. "Eighteen percent of children under the age of 18 have 529 plans,'' Kantrowitz says, "a relatively low number but its been growing. Every dollar you save is a dollar less you're going to have to borrow.'' The Surdan family - Michelle, Kenneth, Jacqueline, Kathleen and Alexander A little cash to pad those 529s Kathleen Surdan, who lives with her family in Acton, Massachusetts opened 529 plans for her three children. But she also saved more than $4,000 over 12 years through Upromise, a site that enables users to buy products and services from various retailers online, then get cash back from those purchases that goes into an account. It takes 10 seconds to go through that link,'' said Surdan, who started out getting a few cents back for purchasing orange juice and eventually saved up to $400 a year booking family trips as well as hotels for her daughter's out of town softball games. When you finally need to tap the funds, she says, "they send you a check.'' Surdan's two daughters, now 23 and 25, and her 20-year-old son received some scholarships. They also had to pay for their own books and come up with their own spending money. But Surdan says she and her husband paid much of their children's tuition with savings. "My husband read an article when they were little ... saying you need $400 a month starting now, when they're born, and my husband took that to heart and we started putting money in, she says. Once your kid is born and you think they might go to college, you have 18 years to figure out a plan.'' McCord said her family was unable to build savings during the years her family lived solely on one income. "We had no savings at all,'' says McCord who has two sons, Isaac, 24 and Silas, 19. When she did return to work to put aside money for their looming tuition, I was open to anything, she says noting that she worked as an office manager before landing her current job in human resources. It cost roughly $17,000 a semester including room and board for her oldest son to attend Liberty University, and about the same amount for her youngest who currently goes to Johnson University in Knoxville, Tennessee. McCord's pay covers all of it,'' she says. "They both got a little bit of scholarship (money) from the schools, a little bit of financial aid but what I make covers their tuition. Non-traditional ways to pay for college Students are also seeking out novel ways to cover the costs of their education. "There are lots of students using crowdfunding, some with amazing results,'' says Dabbar noting the rise of GoFundMe and other campaigns. One student she worked with had a $12,000 gap between what merit aid would cover and what she needed. "She had a very compelling story....She put up a GoFundMe page, and she didnt reach her goal of $12,000, but she raised close to $8,000, which got her that much closer to funding her first year of college.'' Students who work while in school might also want to be strategic in the positions they aim for. "I always tell students to get a (part-time) job at the college, not as a student worker, but as an employee,'' says Jill Geers, a college adviser at Joliet Junior College in Joliet, Illinois, near Chicago. Students need to check what, if any, tuition discount the college gives those on staff.Geers says at her school, a part-time employee gets one free class per semester. "As a full-time employee, myself and my dependents attend tuition-free....There are so many attainable jobs on every campus.'' Several companies also reimburse employees for their tuition costs. Starbucks, for instance, has a program that enables eligible staff members to attend Arizona State University online, with both tuition assistance from the company and a university scholarship. Meanwhile, Chipotle's "Cultivate Me'' initiative, which kicked off April 1, reimburses employees for up to $5,250 in tuition annually. "If you've got a student trying to get a college degree and you're a barista at Starbucks, this is a really good opportunity,'' says Dabbar. "Work study in a lot of colleges isn't very generous, but if you think outside the box, and you go out to the corporate world and ... here are three Chipotles within three miles of campus. What if Susie gets a job at Chipotle and then gets into their tuition-reimbursement program? It's kind of a different way of thinking.'' For those students who may think of attending community college to save money then transferring to a four-year institution, it's important to do their homework beforehand, such as making sure their credits will actually carry over. But it can be cost-effective. A collaboration between Texas A&M and nearby Blinn community college, for instance, allows some students who have applied to the four-year university to co-enroll at both schools. They take the bulk of their classes and pay the lower tuition at the community college but also enroll in courses at Texas A&M, participating in that campus' activities. The goal is that the students will eventually attend A&M full time. Depending on the college, Advanced Placement courses and exams taken in high school can also shave the number of credits students have to take once arriving on campus, saving money. With tuition in the 2018-2019 school year rising 2.5% at a public, four-year, in-state college on average, and 3.3% at a private nonprofit school, crowdfunding, cash-back offers and other alternate ways of saving may only go so far. But every little bit helps. "You're probably going to have to save and borrow,'' says Kantrowitz, "but they can be good ways of helping to defray the costs.'' If you have a college savings strategy you'd like to share, let Charisse Jones know via email or on Twitter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to pay for college without going broke? Let us count the ways A day after saying President Donald Trump is goading Democrats to impeach him for the purpose of solidify[ing] his base of supporters, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi doubled down on her comments. While Pelosi still opposes introducing articles of impeachment against the Trump, Pelosi said Wednesday that Trump is becoming self-impeachable due to his efforts to ignore Congressional subpoenas and prevent key individuals from testifying before Congress. Every single day, whether its obstruction, obstruction, obstructionobstruction of having people come to the table with facts, ignoring subpoenas, Pelosi said during the Washington Post Live event, every single day, the president is making a casehes becoming self-impeachable, in terms of some of the things that he is doing. On Tuesday, Pelosi had gone further, comparing Trumps actions to those of President Richard Nixon: one of the articles of impeachment against the latter president was that he ignored congressional subpoenas. That could be part of an impeachable offense, Pelosi said. I say to my colleagues: whatever it is, be ready. And whatever it is, well be ready. And again, we owe that as a precedent for the future as well. On Wednesday, Trump asserted executive privilege over Special Counsel Robert Muellers report. The move came just hours before the House Judiciary Committee was due to meet to hold a vote declaring Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for his failure to turn over the report. Story continues But Pelosi argued that such stonewalling by the Trump administration is intended to distract the public from their efforts to undermine the Democratic legislative agenda on issues ranging from health care to climate change. Everyday when theyre doing these things, theyre taking attention away from other things that theyre doing, things we are doing, she said. Last week, when the attorney general was before the Congress misrepresenting the facts, he was, at the same time, pressing his case to completely eliminate the Affordable Care Act. And ultimately, Trump is goading Democrats into impeachment because he knows that thats not a good thing for the country, Pelosi said. But Pelosi doesnt plan to go that route. Impeachment is a very divisive, very divisive course of action to take, she said. We shouldnt do it for passion or bias; it has to be about the presentation of fact. And it has to be about patriotism, not about partisanship. Barr, on the other hand, she might be more open to impeaching. Nothing is ever off the table, Pelosi said. By Josh Smith SEOUL, May 8 (Reuters) - It was one of the most concrete agreements to come out of the first U.S.-North Korea summit last year, but now the Pentagon says it has given up hope of recovering any more remains of U.S. troops killed in the 1950-1953 Korean War in the near future. The U.S. Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), which works to recover missing American troops around the world, said on Wednesday that it had not heard from North Korean officials since the second U.S.-North Korea summit, held in Hanoi in February, ended with no agreement. "As a result, our efforts to communicate with the Korean Peoples Army regarding the possible resumption of joint recovery operations for 2019 have been suspended," DPAA spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth Hoffman said in a statement. "We have reached the point where we can no longer effectively plan, coordinate, and conduct field operations in (North Korea) during this fiscal year, which ends on September 30, 2019." At their first summit in June last year, U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a declaration committing to the recovery of remains of soldiers killed in the war. The two sides remain technically at war because a peace treaty was never signed. In July, North Korea handed over 55 boxes of human remains, a move Trump has hailed as evidence of the success of his negotiations with Kim. Since then, however, there has been little progress on resuming the search for the roughly 5,300 Americans believed to be lost in what is now North Korea. Despite that lack of progress, as recently as April 26 Trump touted the return of the remains and said they "continued to come back." North Korea has also been silent about planned joint recovery operations with South Korea, which left the South Korean military to begin independently recovering remains in the demilitarized zone between the two Koreas in April. The United States and North Korea conducted joint searches for remains from 1996 until 2005, when Washington halted the operations citing concerns about the safety of its personnel as Pyongyang stepped up its nuclear program. Story continues The Hanoi summit in February fell apart over a failure to reconcile North Korean demands for sanctions relief with U.S. demands for Kim to give up a nuclear weapons program that now threatens the United States. Hoffman said the DPAA is still trying to determine whether new recovery operations might be possible. "We are assessing possible next steps in resuming communications with the KPA to plan for potential joint recovery operations during Fiscal Year 2020," he said. (Editing by Nick Macfie) Doce Taqueria. | Photo: Samantha H./Yelp Looking to satisfy your appetite for Mexican fare? Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the top Mexican spots around Pittsburgh, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of where to meet your needs. 1. Tako Topping the list is tako. Located at 214 6th St. in the Downtown area, the New American and Mexican spot is the most popular Mexican restaurant in Pittsburgh, boasting 4.5 stars out of 1,291 reviews on Yelp. 2. La Palapa, Traditional Mexican Kitchen Photo: jody g./Yelp Next up is Southside Flats' La Palapa, Traditional Mexican Kitchen, situated at 2224 E. Carson St. With 4.5 stars out of 246 reviews on Yelp, the Mexican spot has proven to be a local favorite. 3. Doce Taqueria Photo: carol s./Yelp Southside Flats' Doce Taqueria, located at 1220 E. Carson St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the food truck and Mexican spot 4.5 stars out of 257 reviews. 4. Federal Galley Photo: federal galley/Yelp Federal Galley, a New American and Mexican spot that offers pizza and more in North Side, is another go-to, with four stars out of 200 Yelp reviews. Head over to 200 Children's Way to see for yourself. This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Photo credit: Instagram/einsteinbros A mother's job is truly never done. Even now as a full-grown adult she's my first call when, like, anything goes wrong. And while a good deal on food won't exactly make up for a lifetime of love, support, and listening to us complain, it's the least we can do. Here's where you and mom can eat cheap this year, and you'll barely have to step foot in the kitchen. Baskin-Robbins To celebrate mom, you can get $5 off your Mothers Day ice cream cake purchases when you spend a minimum of $30. California Pizza Kitchen California Pizza Kitchen is selling heart-shaped pizzas on Mother's Day. Einstein Bros Bagels Starting Friday, May 7, get a free Mimosa Starter Kit (a jug of Orange Juice) for mom when you buy a Brunch Box for the family. TGI Fridays With every $50 e-gift card purchase TGI Fridays will give you a $15 Bonus Bites card which will be valid for use from July 1 to August 31. N!CKs Ice Cream In honor of Mothers Day, N!CKs has created the Mother's Day Bundle ($59.95) with free shipping using the code FORMOMMA which offers all of Nick's mom's favorite flavors in one delicious bundle. Riedel Riedel is making it easier (and more celebratory) to do some last-minute shopping. Through Mothers Day, you can get a free set of Riedel O Champagne Glass on any purchase with code MOTHERUS21. Pollo Campero Pollo Campero will be celebrating moms in several cities with $10 off orders $50 or more with the code MAMA. From May 7 through May 10, select Pollo Campero locations with be celebrating both American and Central American Mothers Day. Kolache Factory On May 9 Moms can buy one muffin and get another one free. Jamba From May 8 to May 9 Jamba has free delivery on any orders placed on the Jamba app or website and a free new breakfast item on orders over $18. Jimmy John's Guests can use promo code 5OFF20 once daily now through June 13 before placing an order online or via Jimmy Johns App for curbside pickup or contactless delivery to their door. Story continues Sonny's BBQ In celebration of Mothers Day, Sonnys BBQ is offering Create Your Own BBQ Bundles which are the perfect family meal option that allows guests to customize each meal with their choice of two, three, or four meats, pint sized sides and bread. Each meal combo will be available for curbside, delivery, and drive-thru at all locations starting at $39.99. Abuelo's Mexican Restaurant In select locations, moms will receive an Abuelos Mothers Day t-shirt when they dine at the restaurant on May 9 (while supplies last). Smoothie King Between May 1 and May 15, guests can receive free delivery on a smoothie order of $10 or more. Grimaldi's From April 30 to May 3, earn a $20 bonus card for every $50 gift card purchased. Bonus cards are valid at all Grimaldis Pizzeria locations, except Grimaldis Pizzeria To-Go locations in Scottsdale, AZ, and Austin, TX. Insomnia Cookies From May 3 to May 9, Insomnia wants to celebrate moms with a free classic cookie (no purchase necessary) or a free six-pack with any $5 or more purchase (in-store only). You Might Also Like Gregory Polanco hit a two-run homer and Melky Cabrera a pinch-hit two-run double Tuesday as the Pittsburgh Pirates took a three-run lead then held on to beat the visiting Texas Rangers 5-4. Starling Marte was 2 for 3 with an RBI single for the Pirates, who swept a two-game series at Texas last week and have won three straight and five of six overall. Hunter Pence drove in all four Texas runs, with a two-run homer and a two-run double. The Rangers have lost four of six. Pittsburgh left-hander Steven Brault, making his first start of the year, went four innings, giving up two runs and two hits, with five strikeouts and three walks. Michael Feliz (2-0) pitched a scoreless, hitless fifth. Felipe Vazquez pitched the ninth for his 10th save. Texas starter Adrian Sampson (0-2), still looking for his first major league win after nine career starts, allowed five runs and seven hits in five innings, with two strikeouts and two walks. Pittsburgh had runners in each of the first two innings but didn't get a run across until the third. With two outs, Adam Frazier tripled off the wall in right. Marte followed with an RBI single up the middle for a 1-0 lead. Pence pushed the Rangers ahead 2-1 in the fourth with his fourth homer, a 429-foot shot after Joey Gallo drew a one-out walk. In the bottom of the fourth, Josh Bell drew a leadoff walk. Two outs later, Francisco Cervelli was hit by a pitch. Kevin Newman walked to load the bases for Cabrera, who drove in two with a double to right for a 3-2 Pirates lead. Polanco increased the lead to 5-2 in the fifth with his first homer of the year, to right-center, after Marte got hit by a pitch. In the seventh, Texas drew to within 5-4. With one out, Dovydas Neverauskas walked Delino DeShields and gave up a base hit to Elvis Andrus. Tyler Lyons replaced Neverauskas and struck out Joey Gallo, before Pence doubled off the wall in left to drive in two. --Field Level Media Ex-Minister of Economy Confirms Doubts that He Was Dismissed Former minister of the Economy of Georgia, Giorgi Kobulia confirmed the rumors after his resignation that he was dismissed.The ex-minister told Forbes Georgia that he was asked to write a statement of resignation, which he refused to do.He added that the calls on resignation towards him were underway during the last month but he was resisting.Resignation is when you write a statement that you quit but I didn't do it, this is why I say that I was dismissed, he admitted.Kobulia noted that from the beginning he could feel the difference of the views between him and the governmental team.He told Rustavi 2 that he was trying till the end to somehow convince the authorities that his views were beneficial for the country, but he failed to do so.Ex-minister also commented on the two main reasons named by the Prime Minister, Mamuka Bakhtadze, about his replacement Slow pace of making decisions and inefficient management of the ministry.One of the main reasons for the conflict was the fact that the decisions I made and which were aimed for the benefit of the country and the people were taking a long time. This slow pace was one of the main reasons for our disagreement, he explained.Kobulia stated that he does not want to go into details, adding some of the decisions he was asked to make, were more political than result-oriented, which was not acceptable for him.I do not regret when I accepted the offer and became the minister. I believe I managed to contribute somehow to the development of my country. I want to thank everyone I worked with during these months. This was a good experience for me, he said.The former minister also said that about the disagreement with the team, he had first consultations with the PM and then with the founder and chair of the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party, Bidzina Ivanishvili.Giorgi Kobulia stepped down on April 18 without making any official statement about the reason for the resignation.The same day, it was announced by the PM Bakhtadze that Kobulias First Deputy Natia Turnava was appointed to the post.Bakhtadze said that the decision of Kobulias resignation was made by him, after the consultations with the ex-minister.We need fast solutions now, making decisions in an operational manner that serves the interests of our society and entrepreneurs. I am convinced that Natia will succeed in fulfilling her obligations, the PM said while presenting Turnava.Kobulia served as the minister from July 12, 2018, to April 18, 2019. Mike Pompeo's Europe trip was altered abruptly - AFP Pool Mike Pompeo, the US Secretary of State, abruptly cancelled talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday to make an urgent visit to Iraq amid rising tensions with Iran. Iraqi government sources confirmed Mr Pompeo landed in the capital Baghdad late on Tuesday night where he was met with Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi. Mr Pompeo said his surprise visit was in response to "escalating" perceived threats from neighbouring Iran. Reporters travelling with the Secretary of State were kept in the dark over their destination and were warned they may not be able to report on it until after their departure. "I wanted to go to Baghdad to speak with the leadership there, to assure them that we stood ready to continue to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation," he later told reporters accompanying him. It was to be Mr Pompeo's first trip to Germany since being appointed America's top diplomat Credit: Reuters The abrupt schedule change came two days after the Pentagon announced it had deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and a fleet of bombers to the Middle East in response to a troubling and escalatory indications of Iranian activity in the region. US media later reported that the announcement was a reaction to "specific and credible" intelligence that suggested Iranian forces and proxies were planning to target American forces in Syria, Iraq and at sea. Mr Pompeo had been due to meet the Mrs Merkel and his German counterpart Heiko Maas in Berlin for talks on Ukraine, Russia, China, Syria, and the Western Balkans. But just hours before the trip a US Embassy spokesman said the the meeting had been cancelled. German government sources later said the US had cited "international security issues" in rescheduling the talks. The move did little to alleviate diplomatic strain between the two countries, with Donald Trump repeatedly criticising trade relations and Germany's failure to raise Nato defence spending. Berlin and Washington are also at odds over a range of trade issues and the Nord Stream 2 project to build a new gas pipeline between Russia and Germany under the Baltic Sea. Story continues There were unconfirmed media reports that Mr Pompeo was headed for Iraq. Reporters travelling with the Secretary of State were kept in the dark over their destination and were warned they may not be able to report on it until after their departure. The abrupt schedule change came two days after the Pentagon announced it had deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and a fleet of bombers to the Middle East in response to a troubling and escalatory indications of Iranian activity in the region. US media later reported that the announcement was a reaction to "specific and credible" intelligence that suggested Iranian forces and proxies were planning to target American forces in Syria, Iraq and at sea. Tuesday's meeting was to be Mr Pompeo's first visit to Germany, despite being in office for more than a year. Norbert Roettgen, chair of the German parliamentary foreign affairs committee, said that "even if the reasons for the rejection are unavoidable, it unfortunately fits in with the current climate in the relationship between the two governments". Germany's foreign ministry said in a short statement that "both sides agreed to quickly find a new date". The Sueddeutsche Zeitung newspaper put it more bluntly - labeling the last-minute cancellation "an impertinence" and judged in a headline that "the German-American friendship lies in ruins". Mr Pompeo will travel on to London on Wednesday where he will meet Theresa May and Jeremy Hunt, the Foreign Secretary, to discuss Huawei, the threats posed by Iran and Russia as well as the return of British Isil fighters from the Middle East and the situation in Yemen. Mr Pompeo is expected to warn the Prime Minister against her decision to grant Chinese technology company Huawei access to Britains 5G networks, arguing that it poses a risk to British citizens and could breach privacy protections. Asked about his message to Britain and Germany on Huawei, a senior State Department official made clear that Mr Pompeo would outline the Trump administrations deep concerns. What we want to do with friends, allies, partners on this issue is share with them the things we know about the risks that the presence of Huawei and their networks present, the official said. The Arctic Council's annual summit ended with a declaration being cancelled for the first time since it was formed in 1996 Credit: AFP We see that as imperative, the risk to their own people, to the loss of privacy protections, the risk that China will use the data in a way thats not in the best interests of their country. And we have an obligation to share that information with them, and well do that and continue that discussion. He will also be delivering the Centre for Policy Studies' annual Margaret Thatcher Lecture during which he will discuss the Special Relationship "that has indelibly contributed to the prosperity, security, and freedom of both countries and our people", according to a State Department official. Before he was due to travel to Berlin, Mr Pompeo attended a meeting of the Arctic Council in Finland, which reportedly ended with the US refusing to sign a joint statement due to objections over its wording on climate change. Instead, in a brief statement, ministers from the US, Canada, Russia, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Iceland repeated their commitment to sustainable development and the protection of the Arctic environment. With Arctic temperatures rising at twice the rate of the rest of the globe, the melting ice is creating potential new shipping lanes and has opened much of the world's last untapped reserves of oil and gas to commercial exploitation. In a speech on Tuesday, Mr Pompeo said the Arctic's melting ice caps were "opening new passageways and new opportunities for trade and suggested the Arctic Council look beyond environmental research into events that may or may not occur in 100 years". Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday expressed outrage at British Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyns support of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduros regime. It is disgusting to see leaders, in not only the United Kingdom, but the United States as well, who continue to support the murderous dictator Maduro, Pompeo said at a joint press conference with U.K. foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt in London. It is not in either of our countrys best interests for those leaders to continue to advocate on their behalf. The U.S. has levied heavy sanctions against Maduros regime and recognizes National Assembly president Juan Guaido as Venezuelas rightful president. The country has been in upheaval since Guaido and other opposition leaders encouraged crowds of citizens to take to the streets of Caracas, the capital, in an effort to oust Maduro that fizzled out last week as most of the military remained loyal to the government. Meanwhile, Venezuela has continued to face a mushrooming humanitarian crisis as its economy collapses, with food scarce and crime rampant. Nevertheless, Corbyn hardened his stance against outside interference in the conflict after Pompeos comments Wednesday. We oppose outside interference in Venezuela, whether from the U.S. or anywhere else, Corbyns spokesperson said. The future of Venezuela is a matter for Venezuelans. The Venezuelan people have spoken through their constitutional mechanism. They have put Juan Guaido as their interim president. He is the duly elected leader there. Maduro is on borrowed time, Pompeo said. I was in Colombia, I saw those countries who had to make choices about whether to feed their children on even days or odd days. That is a direct result of Nicolas Maduro. To see American leaders, or leaders from this country, to continue to provide support and comfort to a regime that has created so much devastation, so much destruction . . . no leader in a country with Western democratic values ought to stand behind them, he added. Story continues Pompeos remarks come just a month before President Trump is scheduled to pay a formal state visit to Queen Elizabeth II. More from National Review BAGHDAD (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Baghdad on Tuesday and met Iraq's prime minister and other top officials to discuss the safety of Americans in Iraq and explain U.S. security concerns amid rising Iranian activity. The visit came two days after U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said the United States was deploying the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and a bomber task force to the region because of a "credible threat by Iranian regime forces". Washington has ramped up sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear program in recent months and designated the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist group. "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country," Pompeo told reporters after meeting Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi. Abdul Mahdi said the United States was an important strategic partner for Iraq, but stressed that Baghdad was continuing to seek a balanced relationship with all of its "friends and neighbours, including neighbouring Iran". "Iraq is building its relationships with all on the basis of putting Iraq's interests first," said a statement from his office released on Wednesday. Pompeo said the purpose of the meeting was to also let Iraqi officials know more about "the increased threat stream that we had seen" so they could effectively protect U.S. forces. Pompeo said he expressed U.S. support for Iraqi sovereignty, noting: "We dont want anyone interfering in their country, certainly not by attacking another nation inside of Iraq." 'ATTACKS IMMINENT' Asked before the meetings if there was a threat to the Baghdad government from Iran that raised U.S. concerns about Iraqi sovereignty, Pompeo said, "No, no, generally this has been our position since the national security strategy came out in the beginning of the Trump administration." Story continues Asked about the decision to move the aircraft carrier and bomber task force to the region, Pompeo said Washington wanted to defend its interests from the Iranian threat and ensure it had the forces necessary to accomplish that goal. "The message that weve sent to the Iranians, I hope, puts us in a position where we can deter and the Iranians will think twice about attacking American interests," Pompeo said, noting that the U.S. intelligence was "very specific" about "attacks that were imminent." He said the United States has urged Iraq to move quickly to bring Iranian-influenced independent militias under central government control, noting that they make Iraq "a less stable nation." Pompeo arrived in Britain on Wednesday, where he will hold talks with Prime Minister Theresa May and other officials. Before leaving Iraq, he also spoke to Iraqi officials about their energy and infrastructure needs, especially in the electricity, oil and natural gas sectors. He said they discussed ways to quickly move forward with projects that could help improve Iraqi lives. Abdul Mahdi's statement praised his government's efforts in attracting investment, including an upcoming deal with ExxonMobil. On Tuesday, the premier said Iraq was close to signing a $53 billion, 30-year energy agreement with the company. (Reporting by Ahmed Rasheed; Additional reporting by Eric Beech in Washington and Raya Jalabi in Erbil; writing by John Davison and David Alexander; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Janet Lawrence) If youve ever wondered just how Kenyas elite is interwoven, then wonder no more. Big names you read about today in Kenya have very likely crossed paths in their past. Most of this traces back to their parents. Many big names today in business or politics had very rich parents and their current status is mostly a continuation of the family wealth. In the old days, and also to some extent today, there were not that many rich estates and international schools in Nairobi. This meant that the same clique of wealthy families would send their children to the same schools and social joints. As a result, children with very famous surnames; Im talking Kenyatta, Kibaki, Gachukia, Mwiraria, Wanjigi, Michuki, Njonjo, Omamo etc, all know each other from their childhoods. Many of these children have gone on to become famous politicians, ambassadors, wealthy businessmen and wheeler dealers, and others appointed to senior positions in the public service. President Uhuru Kenyatta and businessman Jimmy Wanjigi are part of this group. The former had the president as his father, and the latter had a famous cabinet minister as his. In 2017, they somehow had a falling out and Wanjigi actively campaigned against his old friend. The spectacle Kenyans were treated to masked the fact that Uhuru and Wanjigi have had a very long relationship, stretching back to their childhood days. Appearing this week on Cleaning The Airwaves, Suzanne Gachukia spoke a lot about her music career. Suzanne is daughter to the Gachukias, sister to Tony Gachukia and together with her siblings are the heirs to the Riara Schools empire. She is also married to Kenyas ambassador to Ireland, Richard Opembe. Suzanne talked of this time fresh out of high school when she teamed up with Raychelle Omamo defense secretary, and wrote a musical. It was titled Endless Roads and this was back in 1980. Out of high school I get with Raychelle we teamed up (and) wrote a musical. she said. Showing how closely knit these families are, she added, and the president was in the musical he was something, I cant remember,.. worker with his buddies.. She revealed that they put up the musical at the national theater for two nights. Apparently, then vice president Mwai Kibaki graced on the showing, which makes sense because his son Jimmy was in it too. Other than Jimmy Wanjigi, one of the other characters was Richard Opembe, who would go on to marry Suzanne. Also among the cast was Maina Gakuo brother to First Lady Margaret Kenyatta; Margaret Kibe sister to Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Director General Gilbert Kibe; plus many other recognizable names. Well, if this doesnt prove that poor and middle class folks have to work 10 times as hard to make it in life, I dont know what does. Watch Suzanne Gachukias interview. * Pompeo arrives in London * To meet May and Hunt, pitch special relationship * U.S. ratcheting up pressure on Iran * Iran threatens to resume higher uranium enrichment LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited Britain on Wednesday to pitch a post-Brexit 'special relationship' as Iran said it may stop complying with some parts of the nuclear deal which the United States withdrew from a year ago. Pompeo arrived in London after an unannounced visit to Iraq where he explained U.S. security concerns amid rising Iranian activity. The U.S. military said on Tuesday B-52 bombers would be part of additional forces being sent to the Middle East to counter what the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump says are "clear indications" of threats from Iran to U.S. forces there. "The message that weve sent to the Iranians, I hope, puts us in a position where we can deter and the Iranians will think twice about attacking American interests," Pompeo said, noting that U.S. intelligence was "very specific" about "attacks that were imminent." Iran will resume high level enrichment of uranium if world powers do not protect its interests against U.S. sanctions, President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday, responding to the U.S. withdrawal from a nuclear deal a year ago. In London, Pompeo will meet Prime Minister Theresa May who is grappling with a three-year political crisis over the United Kingdom's exit from the European Union. He will also meet Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. As Britain tries to extract itself from the EU after 46 years of membership, a divorce many diplomats say has already made Britain weaker, Pompeo will give a speech on the so called special relationship with the United Kingdom. Both Brexit and the sometimes unpredictable Trump presidency have strained relations between the world's preeminent power and the United Kingdom, its main European ally. Trump is due to make a state visit to the United Kingdom in June. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Janet Lawrence) By Guy Faulconbridge, Kylie MacLellan and Andrew MacAskill LONDON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Britain on Wednesday it needed to change its attitude towards China and telecoms company Huawei, casting the world's second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. Pompeo questioned the attitude of Prime Minister Theresa May's government towards Beijing and goaded London by saying that the late former British leader Margaret Thatcher, who was known as the Iron Lady, would have taken a much firmer line with China. He brought a tough message to Britain, which agreed last month to allow China's Huawei Technologies a restricted role in building parts of its 5G network. "Now is not the time for either of us to go wobbly," Pompeo said in a speech of the so-called special relationship, paraphrasing what Thatcher once famously told late U.S. President George H.W. Bush. "In China, we face a new kind of challenge; an authoritarian regime that's integrated economically into the West in ways that the Soviet Union never was," Pompeo said. The United States has told allies not to use Huawei's technology to build new 5G networks because of concerns it could be a vehicle for Chinese spying, an accusation the firm has denied. Britain has indicated it would allow the company a restricted role. "Ask yourself: would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion? Would she allow China to control the internet of the future?" Pompeo said. "Insufficient security will impede the United States' ability to share certain information within trusted networks. This is just what China wants to divide Western alliances through bits and bytes, not bullets and bombs." Pompeo said China steals sensitive intellectual property and sensitive commercial data in Europe, Asia, and the United States, and singled out Huawei. "The Chinese government can rightfully demand access to data flowing through Huawei and ZTE systems. Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace?" he asked. "We know 5G is a sovereign decision but it must be made with the broader strategic context in mind," he said. HELP 'REIN IN' IRAN Pompeo came to London for talks with May and foreign minister Jeremy Hunt a month before President Donald Trump makes a formal state visit that is likely to generate political controversy and large street protests. He said Russia's Nord Stream 2 project, a project to build a gas pipeline from Russia to Germany, should not be allowed to proceed. He praised the Britain's stance on North Korea. However, his warm words did not mask disagreements between the two allies over Iran and particularly Huawei. British Culture Secretary Jeremy Wright said separately it was still possible that the roll-out of 5G networks in Britain could be delayed by a review into telecoms equipment, adding: "The primary intention of this process is to get the security of the network right." The two countries have also disagreed on Iran. On Wednesday, Iran announced it was relaxing curbs on its nuclear program under the 2015 deal with world powers, and threatened to do more - including enriching uranium to a higher level - if other countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. The United States withdrew from the pact last year, while Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia stayed in the accord with Tehran, under which Iran's nuclear curbs were rewarded with lifted sanctions. Pompeo told reporters the United States would make decisions on how to respond when it saw what Iran's actions were. Tim Morrison, Special Assistant to the President, told a conference in Washington to "expect more sanctions ... very soon". "I urge the UK to stand with us to rein in the regimes bloodletting and lawlessness, not soothe the Ayatollahs angry at our decision to pull out of the nuclear deal," Pompeo said. Earlier, Pompeo met May, who has been grappling with a political crisis over Britain's planned exit from the European Union. "President Trump is eager for a new free trade agreement that will take our Number 1 trade relationship to unlimited new heights," Pompeo said of the future relationship with Britain. "Weve filed all the papers we can at this point. Were ready to go." (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge, Kate Holton and William Schomberg; Writing by Michael Holden; Editing by Janet Lawrence, Kevin Liffey and Frances Kerry) Speaking during a campaign rally in Florida, President Donald Trump raised the prospect of holding talks with Iran over the nuclear deal he withdrew the U.S. from. "I hope to be able at some point, maybe it won't happen, possibly won't, to sit down and work out a fair deal, we're not looking to hurt anybody ... we just don't want (Iran) to have nuclear weapons," Trump said Wednesday in Panama City Beach. Trump's remarks followed an announcement Wednesday from Iran's President Hassan Rouhani announced that the Middle East nation would stop complying with two provisions in the nuclear accord it signed with world powers. Rouhani said Iran would reduce its compliance with the 2015 deal in response to new restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, part of a broader U.S. campaign to ratchet up economic and military pressure on Tehran. Iran's declaration came on the one-year anniversary of Trump's unilateral withdrawal from the agreement that limited Iran's nuclear program in return for sanctions relief. Trump walked away from the deal he has described as the "worst ever negotiated" because he does not believe it does enough to limit Iran's nuclear ambitions or its ballistic missile programs and support for terrorism. In his announcement, Rouhani said Iran will keep excess low-enriched uranium and "heavy water" from its nuclear program inside the country as opposed to selling it internationally in a move that effectively amounts to a partial breach of the deal. The Trump administration said last week it would sanction any country or business that purchased those products from Iran. Rouhani set a 60-day deadline for new terms to the nuclear accord, absent negotiations with the United States, Britain, France, Germany, China, Russia and the European Union. He said that if those terms aren't met, Iran will resume higher uranium enrichment, the process that creates nuclear fuel. Story continues War drums: Pentagon adds B-52s to aircraft carrier rushing to Middle East "We felt that the nuclear deal needs a surgery, and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective," Rouhani said in a nationally televised address. "This surgery is for saving the deal, not destroying it." Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who was in Moscow, tweeted, "After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that U.S. has made impossible to continue." Zarif warned that world powers have "a narrowing window to reverse this." American officials on Wednesday slapped yet more economic penalties on Iran. The White House announced sanctions aimed at blocking Iran from exporting iron, steel, aluminum and copper, which it said were the regimes largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue. Brian Hook, the State Department's special representative for Iran and senior policy adviser to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, said Iran intends to expand its nuclear weapons program. "That is in defiance of international norms and yet another attempt by the regime at nuclear blackmail," he said. Experts said Iran's move is a relatively soft counterpunch to the Trump administration's intense campaign to isolate the regime politically and economically. Some suggested the Trump administration's policies seem designed to achieve this exact escalation. "This was pretty predictable," said Ali Vaez, Iran project director at the Crisis Group, a nonpartisan group focused on preventing conflict. The U.S. has tried to bring Iran to its knees with its maximum pressure campaign in a minimum amount of time, and for about a year, the Iranians demonstrated restraint and remained committed to their obligations under the nuclear deal," he said. "But they have increasingly less to lose because the U.S. sanctions have effectively deprived them of all the benefits that the nuclear deal promised," Vaez said. Vaez said Iran's response was "cleverly devised" to shift the blame to the Trump administration "because the U.S. last week basically rendered it illegal or a sanctionable act for any country to buy the excess ... heavy water and low-enriched uranium." Others echoed that assessment and said Irans announcement did not necessarily signal a desire by the regime to become a nuclear-armed nation. "I think we should be very careful about assuming that Iran stepping away from the JCPOA means stepping closer to the bomb," said Esfandyar Batmanghelidj, a dual American Iranian national who runs a news and research agency focused on Irans economy. He noted that Iran is still a party to an international nuclear nonproliferation treaty and has not seriously pursued a nuclear weapons program for over a decade. "So far, Iran remains committed to the deal, and we should not trap ourselves in a deal/bomb binary," said London-based Batmanghelidj. The Pentagon redirected aircraft bombers and a carrier strike group to the Middle East, citing intercepted intelligence indicating that Iran or its proxies in the region might be preparing attacks on American military troops and facilities. Last month, Trump designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, an elite wing of the nation's military that also plays a large economic role, a terrorist organization. The economic sanctions the White House has imposed since withdrawing from the nuclear deal officially target Iran's government and industries but they have also hindered Iranians' access to essential medicines and consumer products. Exclusive:Iran open to talks with US if Trump changes approach to nuclear deal Pompeo took an unscheduled trip to Iraq on Tuesday where he met with Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi and briefed Iraqi officials on the "increased threat stream that we had seen" from Iranian forces. "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that its able to adequately protect Americans in their country," Pompeo said. "I think everyone will look at the Iranian decision and have to make their own assessment about how much increased risk there is," he said. There are about 5,000 U.S. troops serving in Iraq. Inside Iran: America's contentious history in Iran leads to anger and weariness America's top diplomat gave an address Wednesday in London where the topic of rising tensions between the United States and Iran came up again. "They take hostages and repress their own people. I urge the U.K. to stand with us to rein in the regimes bloodletting and lawlessness, not soothe the Ayatollahs angry at our decision to pull out of the nuclear deal," Pompeo said in Britain's capital. President Barack Obama, whose administration negotiated the nuclear deal, sought to block Iran's progress toward nuclear weapons through diplomacy. The Trump administration, by contrast, has not been shy in its preference for a campaign of "maximum pressure" on Iran and has cut off all contact with the regime. Vaez said Iran's announcement was a measured response and designed "mostly to serve as leverage in order to compel the remaining parties in the deal to throw Iran an economic lifeline in the face of U.S. sanctions." European signatories to the nuclear accord have attempted to stay in the nuclear agreement by establishing a financial mechanism, known as INSTEX, intended to help them circumvent U.S. sanctions, but it has not been fully implemented. Animosity between the United States and Iran stretches back decades to when the CIA helped install a dictator as Iran's leader in 1953. A hostage crisis in the U.S. Embassy in Tehran coincided with the birth of the Islamic Republic in 1979. Pompeo and national security adviser John Bolton say confronting Iran is key to achieving peace and security in the Middle East, and both men are among Iran's fiercest critics in Washington. Bolton was instrumental in advocating for the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. They provided few details about the nature of the threat that led to the sending of a carrier strike group and bomber task force to the Persian Gulf. Iran-backed militias killed 608 U.S. soldiers in Iraq from 2003-2011, according to the Pentagon. Tehran is regularly accused of being the largest state sponsor of terrorism, but the United Nations' nuclear watchdog has repeatedly verified that the regime has adhered to the 2015 nuclear pact even after the U.S. departure last May. Get more stories: Download the USA TODAY app "The (nuclear deal) is doing what it was designed to do: preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. As such, the deal is too important to be allowed to die," the directors of 18 foreign affairs think tanks and research institutes wrote in a joint letter published Wednesday as Iran signaled that the accord could totally unravel. "Im deeply worried that the Trump administration is leading us toward an unnecessary war with Iran," said Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., in a statement late Tuesday. "Let me make one thing clear: The Trump administration has no legal authority to start a war against Iran without the consent of Congress." Batmanghelidj said, "Iranians perceive something deeply vindictive about the way the Trump administration is treating their country." That doesn't mean that people are growing more supportive of the Islamic Republic. "It is possible to be dismayed with both the U.S. government and their own government," he said. Contributing: Tom Vanden Brook This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: President Donald Trump hopes to 'sit down' with Iran over nuclear deal Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex are sharing the first glimpse of the new baby boy, two days after Meghan Markle gave birth to their son. The new parents stepped out for a photo call in St Georges Hall at Windsor Castle on Wednesday morning, near their Frogmore Cottage home, for their first public appearance together since the birth. During their appearance, Markle shared her joy at the newest addition to their family. Its magic. I have the two best guys in the world so Im really happy, Markle said. He has the sweetest temperament. Hes just been the dream, so its been a special couple of days. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. | Press AssociationPA Images/Sipa USA While Meghan Markle and the Duke of Sussex were active and vocal about the pregnancy during the lead-up to the birth of their royal baby boy, they chose to keep the childs birth itself a private event, sharing in an official statement that they had taken the personal decision to recuse themselves from making all the details public. The Duke and Duchess look forward to sharing the exciting news with everyone once they have had an opportunity to celebrate privately as a new family, they said. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. | Press AssociationPA Images/Sipa USA And thats how it has played out: Markle gave birth at 5:26 a.m. on Monday, May 6, after which Prince Harry answered a few questions on camera about their new absolutely amazing infant. He also promised they would be back in a few days with news of the baby boys name. Meanwhile, their social media account shared the news and that the baby weighed 7 pounds and 3 ounces, and an official notice was posted outside Buckingham Palace, as is tradition. Markle and Prince Harrys approach differs slightly from that of Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, who participated in public photo ops directly following the births of Prince George of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, and Prince Louis of Cambridge just outside of the Lindo Wing of St. Marys Hospital in London, where Middleton delivered each of her newborns. Markle and Prince Harrys new baby is seventh in line to the throne and will likely not take on the same prince titles as his cousins. In any case, this is just the start of celebrations for the growing family. Did you know that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle met on a blind date? The pair were set up by a mutual friend during the summer of 2016. Harry gushed about seeing Markle for the first time: Id never heard of Meghan before and I was beautifully surprised when I walked into the room. They quickly hit it off and weeks later took a trip together to Botswana where they camped under the stars. Their romance began to blossom and by the end of the year they were officially a couple. In 2017, Markle met the royal family and spoke out about her relationship with Harry for the first time, telling Vanity Fair, Were in love. In November, it was official, the lovebirds were engaged! Harry designed Markles engagement ring using two stones from his mom, Princess Dianas, jewelry collection. May 2018 marked the couples royal wedding. Five months later, the Palace announced the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were expecting their first child. In early May of 2019, Meghan and Harry's baby boy arrived. Weighing 7 pounds and 3 ounces, the boy was named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. By Gene Emery (Reuters Health) - Giving progesterone to women with bleeding early in pregnancy doesn't prevent pregnancy loss, except among women who have had a previous miscarriage, according to a study of 4,153 women treated at 48 hospitals in the UK. "It's great news for patients," lead author Dr. Arri Coomarasamy, a professor of gynecology at the University of Birmingham, told Reuters Health in a telephone interview. It will prevent unnecessary progesterone treatment for most women, and give extra hope to women facing a second, third or fourth miscarriage. "The live birth rate is 5 percentage points higher in the progesterone group in a pregnant woman who has had a previous miscarriage and is now bleeding," he said. "If she's had three or more previous miscarriages, it's 15 percentage points higher." The bleeding that might signify trouble in the first few months of pregnancy occurs in about 25 percent of all pregnancies. In perhaps 10 percent to 20 percent of cases, the bleeding can be a harbinger of a lost pregnancy. For years, doctors have used progesterone preparations off-label to treat a threatened miscarriage based in part on a decline in hormone levels just before a miscarriage. That led to a long-practiced treatment of giving progesterone even though it was not backed up by good evidence. The new study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, provides evidence of when the hormone does or does not work. "In retrospect, it is likely that the initial rationale for hormonal therapy - that is, the observed fall in pregnancy hormone levels before pregnancy loss - was, in fact, a consequence rather than a cause of pregnancy failure," Dr. Michael Green of Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston writes in an accompanying editorial. For the 2,238 women who did not have a history of miscarriage, the rate of live birth after 34 weeks of gestation was 75 percent among women with bleeding treated with 400 milligrams of micronized progesterone twice daily versus 72 percent among women treated with matching placebo. Statistically, that difference is too small to rule out the possibility it was due to chance. "There was no benefit of any kind," Coomarasamy said. But among women who had experienced one or more miscarriages, 75 percent in the progesterone group gave birth compared with 70 percent who got vaginal placebo suppositories, suggesting that the hormone helped. Women in the ultra-high risk group, who had experienced three or more miscarriages, had a successful pregnancy 72 percent of the time if they were given progesterone versus 57 percent with placebo. The findings are expected to increase progesterone use in the UK, where a 2012 survey showed that it was only given in 4.5 percent of cases of bleeding in early pregnancy, and to lower use of the hormone in some countries where up to 90 percent of women get progesterone if they have bleeding. "Right now, if a patient starts bleeding, they will go to their local hospital and doctors will do an ultrasound to see if the pregnancy is okay," Coomarasamy said. "The doctors would tell the patient you have two-thirds chance that everything is okay and a one-third chance of miscarriage. If the patient asks what can be done about that, right now the answer is nothing. Now, for the first time, we might be able to say there is a treatment that might help you if you have had a miscarriage before." A woman who has never lost a pregnancy may wish to be treated anyway, but "this is where the doctor will need to share the evidence and show there is no benefit to be had" for her from progesterone therapy. The researchers found no evidence that the treatment, which used a natural version of progesterone, was harmful. SOURCE: https://bit.ly/2Lx5Tpz The New England Journal of Medicine, online May 8, 2019. Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein may have been controversial at timesDemocrats applauded his appointment of Special Counsel Robert Mueller, then criticized him for not pressing the attorney general to pursue obstruction of justice charges against President Donald Trumpbut he had been with the DOJ since 1990. Now, Rosenstein is becoming another experienced employee to exit the Department of Justice under the Trump administration. He filed his resignation, effective this Saturday, late last month. Dozens of such employees have left the department since President Donald Trumps inauguration in January 2017. At least 12 have resigned by personal choice, citing career changes or unabated concerns with the administration. Another 44 have resigned under pressure from the administration, including former Attorney General Jeff Sessions and the 43 Obama-era district attorneys he forced out in March 2017. Still four more employees have been fired, including former FBI Director James Comey, whose ousting sparked the Mueller investigation; former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, who was fired just two days before his retirement; former Southern District of New York DA Preet Bharara, who refused to step down in the purge of 2017; and Sally Yates, who served as acting attorney general for just 11 days in January 2017 before angering Trump by refusing to enforce his travel ban. Such turnover is not unheard of: administrations usually bring in their own staff of district attorneys, and, as Rosenstein notes in his resignation letter, few in his position serve longer than two years. A Brookings Institution study on executive staff changes found that former President Barack Obama saw a 43% turnover of his most influential staff in the third year of his presidency, likely evidence that this two-year trend reaches across departments. Trump, however, had more departures in his first year than any of his five predecessors. Story continues The Brookings study found that the Trump administration saw a 34% turnover of its most influential employees within the first year, compared to 9% in Barack Obamas first year and 6% in George W. Bushs first year. According to the studys author, the initial slew of short-term staff might be due to the presidents focus on loyalty over qualifications, leading to inexperienced employees unable to maintain the position, and the borderline chaos that characterized the overall tenor of the administrations first year. These numbers apply to the full executive staff, not just the DOJ, but might represent an overarching trend of Trumps presidency. While some stafflike Rosensteinhave departed the administration amicably, others have resigned with less enthusiasm. Diana Flynn had been working in the civil rights division of the DOJ since the 1980s, but the climate under the Trump administration forced her to pursue employment elsewhere. According to Flynn, policymakers ceased to seek the guidance of career staff with expert knowledge on the issuesa stark change from past administrationsbecause it seemed the president wanted his policies implemented immediately, with little regard for the oversight or procedure that ensure any new regulation properly benefits the country. At least in some divisionsfor example the Civil Rights Division, which is where I worked for close to 34 yearsthe career people seemed to be avoided quite deliberately and given very little opportunity to do their jobs and to be sure that decisions were made properly, based on the evidence, Flynn told Fortune. In prior administration transitions, said Flynn, even those with differing political directions would respect the knowledgeable history of the existing staff. Quite frequently there would be extensive consultation and review to be sure that all of the interests were recognized. It was taken very seriously certainly by the career staff, but also by most of the administrations that came in, that the U.S. Department of Justice represents all the people and the interests of all the people, said Flynn. Under Trump, that all went away. The career staff with highly in-depth and specific knowledge about things seemed to be bypassed to the maximum extent possible in decision making, said Flynn. The result was positions came out with which many people vehemently disagreed, would have a great deal of problems morally enforcing. The DOJ, however, says it continues to seek the guidance of longtime staff. Theres constantly a dialogue with career attorneys in all the different divisions, a DOJ official told Fortune. The advice and the input that we get from career staff is regarded as very important, especially because they have that institutional knowledge. Flynn argues that very knowledge is being lost. There is long term damage being done by this, she said of employee resignations. Former DOJ Assistant Branch Director Joel McElvain left the department in July 2018 after more than 20 years. Although he didnt specify political differences as his reason for leaving, McElvain filed his resignation letter just one day after then-Attorney General Sessions said the DOJ would not defend the Affordable Care Act. Hui Chen, a former DOJ consultant and corporate ethics expert, made her reason for leaving the department in June 2017 very clear: trying to hold companies to standards that our current administration is not living up to was creating a cognitive dissonance that I could not overcome, she wrote in a LinkedIn post. These two are just a couple of those who left, but the DOJ has 115,000 employees. Rosenstein advised these employees to faithfully pursue the Departments law enforcement mission and the Administrations goals in a manner consistent with laws, regulations, policies, and principles. Be prepared to face criticism. That is part of the job, he said in a 2018 address to the House Judiciary Committee. But ignore the tyranny of the news cycle. Stick to the rule of law, and make honest decisions that will withstand fair and objective review. Flynn, however, did not feel the DOJ was making such honest decisions. She said her departure was prompted not just by the lack of consultation, but by the administrations implementation of extreme and cruel policies targeting the LGBTQ+ community in a way that showed cruelty was the point. Shortly after Sessions appointment, the administration withdrew its guidance protecting trans and gender-nonconforming students. Later, Title VII anti-discrimination protections for gay, lesbian, and trans individuals were withdrawn. Flynn left the department in March 2018, just as the DOJ was beginning to require trans people be confined in prison facilities based on their birth sex as opposed to their identity. They got where they wanted to go, they did it quickly, and in my opinion they had very poor legal justifications given for it, said Flynn of the Trump administrations changes. The department still has 115,000 employees that work diligently every day to support the administrations decisions, said the DOJ official, even through policy changes. Many of these may be career staff, but some who left worry about the future ahead. When you lose the institutional memory and you lose the people that were willing to speak truth to power and you lose the people that were actually experienced in determining properly what the law is and enforcing the law, its going to be very difficult to rebuild that capacity even when this difficult interlude with the Trump administration is over, said Flynn. Its a task I think no prior administration has had to face. The body of a nine-year-old boy who was mauled by a crocodile in Lake Victoria has been recovered. The deceased, Kennedy Onyango, was attacked and killed by a crocodile at Gode Ariyo beach in Suba North Suba County on Sunday. He had gone to wash his clothes in the company of other children when the reptile pounced. Homa Bay County, Beach Management Network chairperson Edward Oremo said the crocodile was hiding, making it difficult for the minor to spot it. A search for the boy was promptly launched by area locals and the Kenya Wildlife Service led by Homa Bay county Warden Grace Wendot. The boys body was finally found on Tuesday, 500 meters from the beach where he was attacked. During the recovery, however, rescuers were shocked after the crocodile emerged and tried to grab the body back into the lake. This prompted KWS officials and the residents to pelt the animal with stones. The crocodile wanted to grab the body back but we threw stones at it before it retreated back into the lake, said Pius Ochieng, area Beach Management Unit chairman. The body was eventually recovered and transferred to Homa Bay county referral hospital mortuary. Another man also died in the process of looking for the boys body 23-year-old Anthony Odila slipped from the boat he was paddling. His body was moved to Kirindo MED 25 mortuary. Is a public school system in a leafy county straddling the Capital Beltway discriminating against Asian Americans? The feds next door are investigating in a case with national implications, and with good reason: The type of racial balancing that Montgomery County Public Schools is using may well be illegal. No one questions that the changes MCPS put into effect in 2016 have led to a sharp decline in Asian-American admissions to a middle-school magnet program. In 20162017 the drop was 23 percent; the following year it was 20 percent. The numbers for whites, Hispanics, and blacks went up. That in itself should satisfy those who always insist that policies that have a disparate impact on members of an identity group are suspect per se, and need to be reassessed. And these students and their parents, with the help of the Department of Educations Office of Civil Rights, have something more substantial than mere impact on their side. Though the district insists its new approach to admissions is color-blind, there is considerable evidence that the effort was in reality an attempt at race norming, which is unfair and illegal. The changes in the admissions process stem from the recommendations included in a 2016 report commissioned by the school system from the New Yorkbased consulting agency Metis Associates. The report noted that the system experienced significant increases in the number and diversity of students over the past 20 years. Yet, Superintendent Larry Bowers was quoted as saying, the county had created structural and systemic barriers that have prevented some of our students from full participation in an instructional program that meets their needs and pushes them to excel. In short, Hispanic, black, and low-income students were less likely to be selected. So the system asked Metis to address these barriers and the unintended consequences of the impact these program decisions have had on our achievement gap. Metis recommended as remedies broadening the definition of gifted to include non-cognitive measures and using group-specific norms that benchmark student performances against school peers with comparable backgrounds. Story continues MCPS responded with two major shifts. First, it invited to the qualifying cognitive-skills assessment all fifth-graders performing above grade level, rather than relying on parental requests and teacher recommendations. The number of test-takers tripled, making the selection process more democratic. It was the second change that smacked of group-specific norms: Students could be disqualified if their home schools already included a peer group of 20 similarly gifted classmates. MCPS has portrayed this adjustment as a neutral way of deselecting kids who already have an enriched surrounding. It promised that higher-level courses would be added to their schools, something that parents complain has been limited or non-existent. Worse, in light of the OCR investigation, this peer group approach looks like a fig leaf for something else. The peers at the childrens home schools are likely to come from the same race. What is happening looks a lot like race-norming. That term refers to the practice of adjusting outcomes to account for the race or ethnicity of an applicant. In selecting people for school admission or employment, the selector would not admit, say, the top 5 percent of all candidates, but the top 5 percent in each racial silo. Though it was used for decades in hiring, Congress outlawed the practice in 1991. Like the doctrine of disparate impact, race norming has been a darling of the Left. It also has its fans among conservatives, however. Their point is that, if progressives are intent on group proportionalism in all institutions, then it is far better to hire the best from each group, rather than just lowering standards across the board. One can see their point, but race normings fans are wrong. Its not just illegal; it stigmatizes the real achievements of the people in whose name it was carried out. Its unfair, too, to those who scrimp and save money for tutoring, emphasize homework, stay married, and abstain from out-of-wedlock births, i.e., make the sacrifices required for their children to succeed. And Asians can hardly be thought of as racially privileged. The Asian-American parents of MCPS complained bitterly for two years about the unfairness dealt to their children, but they were practically alone until the Office of Civil Rights notified them that it was bundling ten of their complaints into one investigation. MCPS, like other places, is struggling with a very real racial achievement gap. Its refusal to face up to real cultural problems makes it thrash about in search for cures. The latest is an attempt to change school boundaries. The sooner the feds inform MCPS that it is on the wrong side of history, as the Left likes to say, the better. More from National Review By Lisa Rapaport (Reuters Health) - Cancer patients usually get written consent forms to sign before radiation that are supposed to clearly spell out the treatment risks, but a new U.S. study suggests these forms are too complex for most patients to easily understand. While radiotherapy has become more precise in recent years, it can still damage some healthy cells and tissues in addition to destroying the cancer. Common short-term side effects can include fatigue as well as skin problems like itching, blistering and peeling. Lasting side effects depend on the type and location of radiation therapy and can include more serious problems like new malignancies elsewhere on the body. In theory, informed consent is a cornerstone of modern cancer treatment. But the study results suggest that paperwork patients receive to explain radiation is falling short of this goal. "We looked at the readability of these forms and discovered that, even using the most conservative estimates, they were at far higher reading levels than most patients understand," said study co-author Dr. Andrew Einstein of the Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City. To make medical forms easy for most patients to comprehend, the American Medical Association recommends the documents be written at a sixth grade reading level. The National Cancer Institute, meanwhile, suggests an eighth grade reading level may still be understandable by many patients. For the study, researchers asked 89 radiation oncology departments across the U.S. to answer questions about their consent process and share copies of consent forms. Overall, 67 departments, or 75 percent, answered questions, and 57 departments provided a total of 113 forms for analysis. All of the departments reported using written consent forms, and 38 of them, or 57 percent, tailored forms to the location on the body where patients would get radiation. But just nine of these forms, or 8 percent, were written at an eighth grade level. And only 4 forms achieved a sixth grade reading level. "Undoubtedly a patient's decision making is informed both by conversations with healthcare providers and by written materials provided," Einstein said by email "If a patient signs a consent form which they don't comprehend in itself, they may or may not understand their condition, treatment options, and benefits and risks well enough to make an informed decision, but they haven't really demonstrated this understanding." On average, each consent form contained 7.2 "difficult" words - such as "oncologist," "intervention" and "recurrent" - that might make it hard for patients to decipher the risks of treatment. The study wasn't designed to assess whether the reading levels of consent forms might directly impact patients' treatment decisions. It's also possible that doctors explained the risks and benefits of radiation in language very different than what was used on the forms. "We cannot depend on forms to adequately inform patients," said Dr. Peter Angelos, associate director of the MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics at the University of Chicago. "We must depend on doctors to communicate well with patients and ensure that they have answered questions so that the patient can make an informed decision," Angelos, who wasn't involved in the study, said by email. At the same time, poorly written forms can deprive patients and families of a valuable tool for understanding the risks and benefits of radiation, said Dr. Jacqueline Kruser of the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. "Although face-to-face discussions with doctors might be the most important way to help understand treatment options, written information like informed consent forms and informational websites are a valuable resource to either prepare questions ahead of time or to serve as a reminder of what was discussed," Kruser, who wasn't involved in the study, said by email. "Even though informed consent documents are not the most important part of the process, they should be written in a way that supports the overall goal and serves as a reminder to a patient and their family about what was discussed and decided," Kruser said. SOURCE: https://bit.ly/2VokKXO JAMA Oncology, online May 2, 2019. (Reuters) - Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo walked free from prison in Myanmar on Tuesday after spending more than 500 days behind bars on convictions for breaking the colonial-era Official Secrets Act. Here are comments and reactions: SPOKESMAN FOR UN SECRETARY GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES: U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was relieved to learn of the release of the Reuters reporters, U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. STEVE ADLER, REUTERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: "We are enormously pleased that Myanmar has released our courageous reporters, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo. Since their arrests 511 days ago, they have become symbols of the importance of press freedom around the world. We welcome their return." JEREMY HUNT, BRITISH FOREIGN SECRETARY: "Having personally raised their case with (Myanmar leader) Aung San Suu Kyi in September, I am extremely grateful she has listened to me and many others and responded to a clear miscarriage of justice. "In a world where media freedom is under attack, this is a rare glimmer of hope." LORD ARA DARZI, MEMBER OF MYANMAR ADVISORY GROUP: "This outcome shows that dialogue works, even in the most difficult of circumstances. "The power of dialogue must be turned towards securing a lasting peace in Rakhine State and the return of the hundreds of thousands of refugees, whose desperate plight continues." TUN KHIN, PRESIDENT OF BURMESE ROHINGYA ORGANISATION UK: "The only people that should be locked up for the Rohingya genocide are those that committed it, not those that helped expose it. "The Rohingya community stands with U Wa Lone and U Kyaw Soe Oo today, just as we have every day of their unlawful imprisonment by this complicit Burmese regime." NICHOLAS BEQUELIN, AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL: "The case against Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo was a travesty of justice from start to finish and they should never have spent a day in prison. "While all those who campaigned for their release welcome the government's decision, the reality is the country retains a range of repressive laws used to detain journalists, activists and any perceived critic of the authorities. Story continues "Until these laws are repealed, journalists and activists remain under a permanent threat of detention and arrest." SHAWN CRISPIN, COMMITTEE TO PROTECT JOURNALISTS: "CPJ ... reiterates that Myanmar should never have charged and jailed them in the first place. "May their release herald a new era of press freedom in Myanmar, where reporters no longer fear reprisal merely for doing their jobs." PHIL ROBERTSON, HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH: "These courageous investigative journalists should have never been arrested, much less imprisoned, in the first place and their release is long overdue. "Time to act on the problem that Myanmar's faltering respect for media freedom indicates the dire situation facing human rights and democracy as the country moves toward national elections in 2020." DUTCH EMBASSY IN MYANMAR: "We applaud the President and the government of Myanmar for having taken this positive step. It was the right thing to do." UNITED NATIONS IN MYANMAR: "The UN in Myanmar welcomes the release of Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo from prison. The UN in Myanmar considers the release of Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo a step toward improving the freedom of the press and a sign of government's commitment to Myanmar's transition to democracy. "The UN stands ready to continue to support Myanmar in its complex transition process." AMAL CLOONEY, COUNSEL TO WA LONE, KYAW SOE OO AND REUTERS: "Since taking on this case over a year ago, I have witnessed incredible determination by Reuters, in particular editor-in-chief Steve Adler and Chief Counsel Gail Gove, in their pursuit of justice for their brave reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo. "It is inspiring to see a news organisation so committed to the protection of innocent men and the profession of journalism. "It has been an honour to represent Reuters and the two journalists in this case and I hope that their release signals a renewed commitment to press freedom in Myanmar." FILM STAR GEORGE CLOONEY, SPEAKING AT THE PREMIERE OF HIS SERIES 'CATCH-22' IN LOS ANGELES: "I couldn't be more proud of Reuters and how they stuck up for journalism in a way that is important and it's a dangerous time. "It's a bad time, it's a dangerous time to be a journalist. So to win one. I'm very proud of my wife and congratulations to everybody." SUZANNE NOSSEL, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF PEN AMERICA: "Although Myanmar has failed shamefully to redress the injustice of their trumped-up arrest and conviction on spurious evidence, we are relieved that their ordeal behind bars is over. "Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo have proven their courage and fortitude, never once wavering in their claims of innocence." BAERBEL KOFLER, GERMANY'S COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS: "I am pleased that the two Reuters journalists were released after a presidential amnesty today. This is an important humanitarian gesture which I greatly welcome. Press freedom is key to the further democratization in #Myanmar." AUDREY AZOULAY, DIRECTOR GENERAL OF UNESCO, WHICH AWARDED ITS 2019 GUILLERMO CANO WORLD PRESS FREEDOM PRIZE TO BOTH MEN: "It is a relief for them and their relatives, but also a positive step for freedom of the press....it is essential for the good functioning of our democracies that journalists are able to carry out their mission without fearing retaliation. "Through their dedication and the courage they showed, Kyaw Soe Oo and Wa Lone are an inspiration for all those who fight to defend the freedom of the press." CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU "I'm really pleased to see that the two journalists who were being unjustly imprisoned in Myanmar have been released. Canada has long been pushing for their release. We will always stand up for press freedom." (Editing by Darren Schuettler and Clarence Fernandez) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! It is not uncommon to see companies perform well in the years after insiders buy shares. Unfortunately, there are also plenty of examples of share prices declining precipitously after insiders have sold shares. So before you buy or sell Prospera Energy Inc. (CVE:PEI), you may well want to know whether insiders have been buying or selling. Do Insider Transactions Matter? It's quite normal to see company insiders, such as board members, trading in company stock, from time to time. However, rules govern insider transactions, and certain disclosures are required. Insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing. But it is perfectly logical to keep tabs on what insiders are doing. For example, a Columbia University study found that 'insiders are more likely to engage in open market purchases of their own companys stock when the firm is about to reveal new agreements with customers and suppliers'. View our latest analysis for Prospera Energy The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Prospera Energy CEO, President & Director Burkhard Franz made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for CA$150k worth of shares at a price of CA$0.05 each. Even though the purchase was made at a significantly lower price than the recent price (CA$0.065), we still think insider buying is a positive. But because it occurred at a lower valuation, it doesn't tell us much about whether insiders might find today's price attractive. Burkhard Franz bought a total of 5.5m shares over the year at an average price of CA$0.051. You can see the insider transactions (by individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! TSXV:PEI Recent Insider Trading, May 8th 2019 There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying. Story continues Does Prospera Energy Boast High Insider Ownership? Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. Prospera Energy insiders own about CA$734k worth of shares. That equates to 21% of the company. This level of insider ownership is good but just short of being particularly stand-out. It certainly does suggest a reasonable degree of alignment. What Might The Insider Transactions At Prospera Energy Tell Us? It doesn't really mean much that no insider has traded Prospera Energy shares in the last quarter. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. Insiders do have a stake in Prospera Energy and their transactions don't cause us concern. Along with insider transactions, I recommend checking if Prospera Energy is growing revenue. This free chart of historic revenue and earnings should make that easy. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. Photo credit: FXitinPost From Popular Mechanics To get something out of the way, this video is amazing. Created by FXitinPost, a new YouTube site dedicated to recreating iconic scenes with modern FX magic, the creators did an incredible job updating Star Wars: A New Hope's Scene 38. Weaving in original footage with FX magic, Obi-Wan and Darth Vader's epic standoff aboard the Death Star, ultimately ending in Obi-Wan's demise, is an A+ fan creation. But it also makes me kind of sad, because this short six-minute scene is actually a perfect expression of what Star Wars films have lost since the original arrived on the big screen more than 40 years ago. For comparison, here's the original: This fight scene has often been derided as boring, awkward, and unfitting a Star Wars franchise that would eventually have an evil cyborg who could wield four lightsabers simultaneously. This new version certainly fixes that problem with Vader and Obi-Wan entering into an all-out, force-powered lightsaber brawl. But despite the several minutes of extra action ... nothing changes. The outcome is the same: Vader beats Obi-Wan and Luke witnesses it happening. In the original, the history of the animosity felt between these two characters-at least in 1977-is mostly unknown, but thanks to Alec Guinness and some great writing, you can feel how an incredible betrayal and the passing years have eroded what was once a friendship. I'm not trying to say that A New Hope was some form of high art that transcended its blockbuster-friendly space fantasy trappings. But the original trilogy tried to show audiences meaning without explicitly telling you what to feel, a philosophy diminished with the digital remasters and flat-out destroyed in the prequels. The same can be said for A New Hope's opening scene, where a massive Star Destroyer chases down a dinky Blockade Runner. The sheer size differences tell you who's in charge and who's the underdog-and it doesn't have to tell you anything else. Story continues And I'm not the only one who's noticed this. That same scene made today would be some epic battle with tons of explosions-technically impressive, yes- but one that would ultimately ring emotionally hollow. I guess sometime in the past 40 years, audiences began conflating epic lightsaber fights and drawn-out space battles as peak Star Wars. And it's exactly the opposite. ('You Might Also Like',) The two figures were first spotted by a photographer who arrived early on the scene, with a telephoto lens through the gates of a Yangon prison on May 7. One mans signature thick-rimmed glasses confirmed it: The award-winning Reuters journalists whose arrest had become a global cause were finally free. In the 511 days since their arrest, Wa Lone, 33, and Kyaw Soe Oo, 29, had become two of the worlds most visible symbols of the fight to protect press freedom. Last year, TIME included them among the Guardians named Person of the Year for their role fighting the war on truth. In April, they were awarded a Pulitzer Prize for the very work that landed them in jail. There was little ambiguity about what happened to these two bright young reporters who dared to expose atrocities committed by their countrys notorious military. They were set up, convicted of possessing official secrets and sentenced to 7 years in prison after a trial broadly considered a farce. On Tuesday, they were freed by a pardon from Myanmar President Win Myint. Im really happy and excited to see my family and my colleagues, Wa Lone said in brief remarks outside the prison gates. I cant wait to go to my newsroom. Photos and videos of the reporters emotional reunion with their wives and young daughters went viral. One captured the first time Wa Lone ever held his infant daughter as a free man. His wife, Pan Ei Mon, discovered she was pregnant shortly after his arrest. Like most good news in Myanmar, it came with a caveat. Their case was a major test of the countrys quasi-civilian government, led by Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, which it failed at every turn. Rights advocates say press freedom in the country is even worse than it was upon their arrest, and other journalists have already taken on board the chilling message that if they report critically on the military, the government wont help them. The military punished these journalists to intimidate others, says Phil Robertson, deputy director of the Asia division for Human Rights Watch. They wanted to let everyone know that, Hey, we can come after you, too. Story continues At every turn, the case set off alarm bells for other journalists. In what appears to have been a sting operation, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were arrested on the night of Dec. 12, 2017 after accepting an invitation to have dinner with police at a private restaurant in Yangon. They were in the midst of a damning investigation into a massacre of 10 Rohingya boys and men in Myanmars Rakhine state, where the military has been accused of genocide against the stateless Muslim minority. Police handed them some documents, and they left the restaurant. Before they could even examine the contents, they were arrested and held incommunicado for about a week. In the ensuing trial, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo were charged with breaking a law called the Official Secrets Act, a colonial-era provision that criminalizes so much as intending to share anything authorities want to conceal. A police witness testified that officers were ordered to trap Wa Lone, and that the both of them were caught in a set up. Nonetheless, they were convicted on Sept. 3, 2018, and sentenced to seven years behind bars. Its no wonder why authorities wanted to hide what these reporters knew about Rakhine. While they were still on trial, Reuters editor-in-chief Stephen J. Adler decided that the story of the massacre they had uncovered was too important not to publish. The rest of the world agreed with him; in April, Reuters body of work on the Rohingya crisis was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for international reporting. We felt the world needed to see this story, Adler told Washington Post columnist Jason Rezaian, who himself was jailed in Iran for 544 days and has been a vocal advocate for the Reuters journalists. Our reporters in prison were fully supportive of the decision, Adler said. And this is what we do. Its tempting to see the release of these reporters as a victory in the worsening global struggle between independent media outlets and the governments who wish to control and stifle them. At least 251 journalists were jailed in 2018, one of the worst annual totals on record. But advocates for the two men say this is a battle won, not the war. Its generally agreed that the Myanmar government would not have freed them on its own; it took 18 months of sustained, concerted international pressure to get two innocent men out of prison, while scores of other journalists there and across Asia remain behind bars. I dont think the government of Myanmar deserves any credit for this, theyre still the villains, says Phil Robertson, deputy director of the Asia division for Human Rights Watch. But what it shows is that if you can generate enough international pressure, you can actually win the day. 115 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE, #8. | Photos: Zumper Curious just how far your dollar goes in Atlanta? We've rounded up the latest rental offerings via rental site Zumper to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to locating an apartment in Atlanta with a budget of $1,500/month. Take a peek at what rentals the city has to offer, below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 1115 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE, #8 (Poncey-Highland) Listed for $1,500/month, there's this studio apartment located at 1115 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE, #8. In the unit, look for hardwood floors, central heating and in-unit laundry. When it comes to building amenities, anticipate secured entry; good news for animal lovers: both dogs and cats are welcome here. According to Walk Score, this location is extremely walkable, is very bikeable and has a few nearby public transportation options. (See the complete listing here.) 44 Peachtree Place NE, #828 (Midtown) Here's a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at 44 Peachtree Place NE, #828 that's going for $1,495/month. In the unit, you'll get air conditioning, a fireplace and a walk-in closet. The building features assigned parking, a swimming pool and a fitness center. Cats and dogs are not welcome. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. Per Walk Score ratings, this location is very walkable, is convenient for biking and offers many nearby public transportation options. (See the full listing here.) 856 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE (Virginia Highland) Listed also at $1,495/month, this 900-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom is located at 856 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE In the condo, you can anticipate hardwood flooring and in-unit laundry. Building amenities include secured entry and assigned parking. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are allowed. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. Story continues Per Walk Score ratings, the area around this address is quite walkable, is convenient for biking and has some transit options. (Check out the complete listing here.) 701 N. Highland Ave. NE (Old Fourth Ward) Next, there's this studio situated at 701 N. Highland Ave. NE It's listed for $1,493/month for its 634 square feet of space. In the unit, the listing promises hardwood flooring, high ceilings and a walk-in closet. Luckily for pet owners, both dogs and cats are allowed. Building amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness center and garage parking. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. According to Walk Score, the area around this address is friendly for those on foot, is very bikeable and has good transit options. (See the complete listing here.) 880 N. Highland Ave. NE (Virginia Highland) Here's an 800-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom at 880 N. Highland Ave. NE that's going for $1,475/month. Assigned parking is listed as a building amenity. In the unit, you'll find in-unit laundry. If you've got a pet, you'll be happy to learn that cats and dogs are allowed. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee, but there is a $50 application fee and $1475 deposit. Walk Score indicates that the surrounding area is very walkable, is convenient for biking and has some transit options. (Check out the complete listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. 485 Brickell Ave., #1705. | Photos: Zumper If you're looking for new digs, you know how hard it can be to find a quality spot for a reasonable price. So what does the low-end rent on a rental in Miami look like these days and what might you get for your money? We took a look at local listings for studios and one-bedroom apartments in Miami via rental site Zumper to find out what price-conscious apartment seekers can expect to find. Take a look at the cheapest listings available right now, below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 481 N.E. 29th St., #302 This one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo, situated at 481 N.E. 29th St., #302, is listed for $700/month. In the unit, which comes furnished, you'll find in-unit laundry. Neither cats nor dogs are permitted. There's no leasing fee required for this rental. According to Walk Score, this location is quite walkable, is relatively bikeable and offers many nearby public transportation options. (See the complete listing here.) 1045 N.E. 80th St., #3 Here's a studio apartment at 1045 N.E. 80th St., #3, which is also going for $700/month. In the unit, expect air conditioning and tile flooring. Neither cats nor dogs are welcome. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. Walk Score indicates that the area around this address is somewhat walkable, has some bike infrastructure and has a few nearby public transportation options. (See the full listing here.) 485 Brickell Ave., #1705 And here's a studio condo at 485 Brickell Ave., #1705 in Brickell, which is going for $850/month. The building features a swimming pool, a roof deck and a fitness center. In the unit, you're promised air conditioning. Animals are not welcome. There's no leasing fee required for this rental. According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address is quite walkable, is convenient for biking and has excellent transit. Story continues (Check out the listing here.) 1969 N.W. Second Court Over at 1969 N.W. Second Court in Overtown, there's this 425-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom, going for $875/month. In the unit, you'll get hardwood flooring. Sorry pet lovers, cats and dogs are not allowed. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address is extremely walkable, is very bikeable and boasts excellent transit options. (View the listing here.) 1190 N.W. 67th St. Listed at $900/month, this studio is located at 1190 N.W. 67th St. in Liberty City. In the unit, you can anticipate air conditioning. The building boasts on-site management. Pet owners, take heed: cats and dogs are permitted. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. According to Walk Score, the surrounding area is somewhat walkable, is bikeable and has a few nearby public transportation options. (Check out the complete listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. 931 Chartres St. | Photos: Zumper Curious just how far your dollar goes in New Orleans? We've rounded up the latest rental offerings via rental site Zumper to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to locating a place in New Orleans if you've got a budget of $800/month. Take a look at the listings, below. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 1828 Washington Ave. (Central City) Listed at $800/month, this studio is located at 1828 Washington Ave. When it comes to building amenities, expect on-site laundry. The unit has air conditioning. Neither cats nor dogs are allowed. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. Per Walk Score ratings, this location is quite walkable and is convenient for biking. (See the complete listing here.) 931 Chartres St. (French Quarter) Here's a 250-square-foot condo at 931 Chartres St. that's going for $750/month. In the furnished unit, you'll get hardwood floors, air conditioning and a balcony. The building has on-site laundry and outdoor space. Animals are not permitted. There isn't a leasing fee associated with this rental. Walk Score indicates that this location is a "walker's paradise" and is a "biker's paradise". (See the full listing here.) 12345 I-10 Service Road (Little Woods) Finally, check out this 539-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom that's located at 12345 I-10 Service Road. It's listed for $749/month. In the unit, you'll get a dishwasher, in-unit laundry and a fireplace. Amenities offered in the building include a fitness center, a swimming pool and on-site management. Both cats and dogs are welcome. Per Walk Score ratings, this location is car-dependent and isn't particularly bikeable. (Take a look at the complete listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. 2254 S. Grand Blvd. | Photos: Padmapper Curious just how far your dollar goes in St. Louis? We've rounded up the latest rental offerings via rental site Zumper to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to hunting down a rental in St. Louis if you've got $1,300/month earmarked for your rent. Read on for the listings. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 2254 S. Grand Blvd., #A (Compton Heights) Here's a 700-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo at 2254 S. Grand Blvd., #A that's going for $1,275/month. In the unit, you'll get hardwood floors, a dishwasher and in-unit laundry. Amenities offered in the building include a swimming pool and a fitness center. Pets are not welcome. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. According to Walk Score, the area around this address is friendly for those on foot, has some bike infrastructure and has a few nearby public transportation options. (Take a look at the full listing here.) 1119 Mississippi Ave. (Lafayette Square) Next, check out this 810-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom that's located at 1119 Mississippi Ave. It's listed for $1,275/month. In the unit, you'll find in-unit laundry, a walk-in closet and a balcony. Building amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness center and on-site management. If you've got a pet, you'll be happy to learn that cats and dogs are welcome. Walk Score indicates that the area around this address is friendly for those on foot, is fairly bikeable and has good transit options. (Check out the complete listing here.) 2050 Lafayette Ave., #3W (Lafayette Square) Located at 2050 Lafayette Ave., #3W, here's a 1,231-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit that's listed for $1,250/month. In the unit, you can expect hardwood floors, air conditioning and a fireplace. Amenities offered in the building include assigned parking, on-site laundry and storage space. Animals are not welcome. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. Story continues According to Walk Score, the surrounding area is friendly for those on foot, has some bike infrastructure and has some transit options. (See the complete listing here.) 4910 W. Pine Blvd. (Central West End) Listed at $1,229/month, this 625-square-foot studio is located at 4910 W. Pine Blvd. In the unit, you can expect in-unit laundry, a walk-in closet and a fireplace. Luckily for pet owners, both dogs and cats are permitted. Building amenities include a fitness center, a swimming pool and outdoor space. Look out for a $250 non-refundable pet fee. Walk Score indicates that this location is friendly for those on foot, is quite bikeable and offers many nearby public transportation options. (Check out the complete listing here.) 5800 Highlands Plaza Drive (Cheltenham) Finally, there's this studio situated at 5800 Highlands Plaza Drive. It's listed for $1,225/month for its 575 square feet of space. In the furnished unit, you'll find hardwood floors, in-unit laundry and a walk-in closet. When it comes to pets, both meows and barks are welcome. Amenities in the building include garage parking, a fitness center and a business center. According to Walk Score, the surrounding area is car-dependent, is fairly bikeable and has some transit options. (See the complete listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Machakos Governor Dr Alfred Mutua has expressed his willingness to take a pay cut. Speaking in response to plans by Kenyan MPs to increase their fat perks further, Dr Mutua warned that increasing salaries would burden Kenyans with higher taxes and push them deeper in poverty. The Maendeleo Chap Chap party leader was speaking at his office in Machakos town on Tuesday after being installed patron of Machakos County Scouts Council. He opposed the plan and challenged fellow legislators to drop their quest for a pay hike. I do not support the plan to increase the salaries and packages of Members of Parliament. Our economy is not doing well. We have massive unemployment, low circulation of money and Kenyans are feeling overburdened by heavy taxation, said Mutua. I agree that everyone deserves a pay raise; from a casual worker to the President but this has to be matched by the economy. Lets first grow the economy because as it is, I believe, public servants are overpaid in Kenya compared to other nations & on what our economy can afford. The County boss noted that members of parliament already command huge salaries. Mutua said, I think that we, leaders, take home too much money, yet we are called servants. I am willing to get my salary reduced to match the economy so that we have more money going towards development which is what our youth want. I, therefore, urge the Members of National Assembly to read the mood of the country. The timing is wrong. We cannot even afford as a country to raise salaries of workers and so raising salaries of leaders is an affront to hard working Wananchi who are our voters. Mutuas rallying call comes when the Parliamentary Service Commission has increased the salary budget for the National Assembly from 5.4 billion to Sh5.6 billion in the next fiscal year ending June 2019. This will see each MP take home a staggering Sh1.33 million per month which translates to 25 times higher than average earnings for Kenyans. A government agency report has cast fresh doubts on India's economic growth figures, in a blow to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he seeks re-election in ongoing polls. Data compiled by India's National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) found that there were significant gaps in how the growth figures of Asia's third-largest economy are calculated. Modi regularly trumpets his economic credentials but the opposition Congress party says his government spins statistics to make their record on the economy look better than previous administrations. The NSSO study found that more than one-third of companies included in a database used to calculate India's economic growth were "closed, out of coverage, or non-traceable". "India's GDP figures and data have been under scrutiny for sometime now internationally," Ashutosh Datar, a Mumbai-based economist, told AFP. "These new reports raise more questions about their credibility and accuracy," he added. The report was released last week but only came to light on Wednesday when it was reported by the Mint business daily. Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi have clashed over gross domestic product numbers since Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party-led administration last year revised down growth figures for when Congress was in power. The revision, based on a new way of calculating GDP that Modi's regime introduced four years ago, saw average growth under Congress from 2005-2012 fall below that recorded by the BJP since it took over the government in 2014. Modi's government has defended the changes, saying they bring India more in line with how GDP is calculated in other major economies. The new data is the second time this year that statistics released by a government agency have threatened to embarrass the government. In January, data leaked from the statistics ministry showed India's unemployment rate hitting a 45-year-high of 6.1 percent in 2017-18. Story continues GDP growth slowed from 7.1 percent to 6.6 percent in the third quarter of the 2018-19 financial year, data released in February showed. Economists say that the Indian economy needs to grow at least seven percent per annum to create jobs for the estimated one million people entering the labour market each month. The results of India's election are due on May 23. Following is a summary of current health news briefs. WHO experts recommend ramping up Ebola vaccine after Congo cases surge World Health Organization experts recommended on Tuesday a dramatic expansion of vaccination against Ebola in Congo after a surge in cases showed that the strategy of vaccinating those known to be exposed to the disease was no longer sufficient. Health workers fighting against the second worst Ebola epidemic in history are now implementing a "ring" strategy, vaccinating anyone directly exposed to known cases of Ebola, and a second ring of those exposed to people in the first ring. Denver residents vote on whether to decriminalize 'magic mushrooms' As Denver voters went to the polls on Tuesday for a mayoral election, they were also asked to decide whether to decriminalize possession of psilocybin, the hallucinogenic drug in what is widely known as "magic mushrooms." If passed, the ballot initiative would make Colorado's capital the first U.S. city to end the imposition of criminal penalties for individuals at least 21 years of age for using or possessing the psychedelic drug. Georgia governor signs heartbeat abortion ban, joining a U.S. movement Georgia became the fourth U.S. state this year to outlaw abortion after a doctor can detect a fetal heartbeat, when its Republican governor on Tuesday signed a bill that an abortion-rights group vowed to challenge immediately. Opponents called the legislation a virtual ban because fetal heartbeats can be detected as early as six weeks, before a woman may be aware she is pregnant. Pregnancy-related deaths, mostly preventable, occur up to a year after birth: CDC Some 700 women in the United States die from pregnancy-related complications each year, up to a year after giving birth, and the deaths are usually preventable, according to a study released by U.S. health officials on Tuesday. One-third of pregnancy-related deaths, often from heart disease or strokes, occur from one week up to a year after birth, while a third occurs during pregnancy, and one-third at delivery or in the week after, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found. Story continues WHO issues warning as measles infects 34,000 in Europe this year More than 34,000 people across Europe caught measles in the first two months of 2019, with the vast majority of cases in Ukraine, the World Health Organization said on Tuesday as it urged authorities to ensure vulnerable people get vaccinated. The death toll among 34,300 cases reported across 42 countries in the WHO's European region reached 13, with the virus killing people in Ukraine - which is suffering a measles epidemic - as well as in Romania and Albania. The risk is that outbreaks may continue to spread, the WHO warned. J&J agrees to pay about $1 billion to resolve hip implant lawsuits: Bloomberg Johnson & Johnson agreed to pay about $1 billion to resolve the bulk of lawsuits claiming the company sold defective metal-on-metal hip implants that ultimately had to be removed, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people with knowledge of the matter. The agreement resolves over 95 percent of the 6,000 cases in which surgeons extracted the company's Pinnacle implants because they left patients unable to walk and in pain, according to the report. Heart failure deaths rising in U.S., especially among younger adults More U.S. adults are dying from heart failure today than a decade ago, and the sharpest rise in mortality is happening among middle-aged and younger adults, a new study suggests. Researchers examined data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on deaths from heart failure between 1999 and 2017 among adults 35 to 84 years old. Vaping companies facing European opposition to higher nicotine level A push by makers of electronic cigarettes to raise nicotine levels in the European Union towards their far higher American levels is running into opposition, a senior executive at U.S. market leader Juul said on Tuesday. But there is little sign in Europe of the kind of regulatory backlash seen in the United States over youth vaping, said Grant Winterton, EMEA president of Juul. Rubber playground surfaces may contain high lead levels Rubber playground surface material may protect kids from some injuries but be harboring a different source of harm, a study in Boston suggests. Researchers tested lead levels in the soil, sand, mulch or rubber surface materials in 28 playgrounds and found the rubber surfaces often averaged two or three times the lead levels of the other materials. Many of the highest lead levels were also found in soil surfaces, making sand and mulch the healthier surface choices for playgrounds, the study team writes in PLoS ONE. Arsenic exposure linked to heart thickening Drinking water that is contaminated with even moderate levels of arsenic may lead to harmful thickening of the heart's main chamber walls, a new U.S. study suggests. Researchers who analyzed arsenic levels from more than 1,000 adults under the age of 50 found the risk of heart thickening over the next roughly five years was significantly higher in those with the highest exposure to the toxin, according to the report published in Circulation. Following is a summary of current health news briefs. Cholera, more civilian casualties feared in Libya: WHO A month-old battle for Libya's capital Tripoli risks causing an "exponential" rise in civilian casualties as well as outbreaks of deadly diseases including cholera, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. Both sides are using ever more sophisticated weapons in a conflict straining life-saving hospital supplies near front lines that will last only a few more weeks, Dr. Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO representative in Libya, also said in an interview. U.S. government to require drugmakers to show prices in TV ads The Trump administration on Wednesday said it will require drugmakers to disclose the list price of prescription drugs in direct-to-consumer television advertisements, part of the government's efforts to lower costs for U.S. consumers. The list price would be included if it is equal to or greater than $35 for a month's supply or the usual course of therapy. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) said that the 10 most commonly advertised drugs have list prices ranging from $488 to $16,938 per month or usual course of therapy. Repetition helps preschoolers learn to eat healthy foods By using the right words and repeating the phrases, adults can help young kids get over picky eating behaviors and eat healthier foods, according to a new study. Saying "Lentils will help you run faster," for instance, encourages preschoolers to understand the benefits and pick the foods they want, the study authors write in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior. AstraZeneca-Daiichi breast cancer treatment shows promise in latest study An experimental breast cancer drug being developed by British drugmaker AstraZeneca and Japan's Daiichi Sankyo's met its main goal in a mid-stage study, bolstering their position in a highly competitive oncology market. AstraZeneca agreed in March agreed to pay up to $6.9 billion to work with Daiichi on the drug known as trastuzumab deruxtecan, in a direct challenge to Roche. Story continues Novartis confident of Zolgensma supply, calls $2 million price 'speculation' Novartis is confident it has adequate production capacity for its Zolgensma gene therapy should regulators this month approve the drug for multiple forms of the genetic disease spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), the Swiss drugmaker said on Wednesday. Basel-based Novartis has several clinical trials ongoing, including against SMA Type 1, which often kills infants before the age of two, as well as SMA Type 2, a slower-moving but still disabling form of the inherited disease where victims lack functioning copies of a gene needed for motor neuron development. Global obesity rising faster in rural areas than cities, study finds Global rates of obesity among people who live in the countryside are rising faster than those among city dwellers, in part due to greater access in urban areas to healthier foods and places to exercise, researchers said on Wednesday. In a study of 33 years of trends in body mass index (BMI) across 200 countries and territories, the scientists found that people worldwide are getting heavier - with average weight rising by 5 to 6 kg (11 to 13 pounds) over the period of the study - and that most of the rise is due to gains in BMI in rural areas. Health funding gap means 1,700 in Gaza may face amputations: U.N. A lack of health funding in Gaza means 1,700 people shot by Israeli security forces may have to have amputations in the next two years, Jamie McGoldrick, the U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for occupied Palestinian territory, told reporters on Wednesday. McGoldrick said 29,000 Palestinians had been wounded in protests in the past year, and 7,000 of them had gunshot wounds, mostly in the lower legs. Cholesterol-lowering drugs tied to reduced glaucoma risk High cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of developing glaucoma, but a new study suggests taking statins to lower cholesterol helps to reduce this risk. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve, typically because pressure builds up inside the eye. The current study focused on the most common form, known as open-angle glaucoma, which starts with gradual loss of peripheral vision. Radiation therapy consent forms too difficult to read Cancer patients usually get written consent forms to sign before radiation that are supposed to clearly spell out the treatment risks, but a new U.S. study suggests these forms are too complex for most patients to easily understand. While radiotherapy has become more precise in recent years, it can still damage some healthy cells and tissues in addition to destroying the cancer. Common short-term side effects can include fatigue as well as skin problems like itching, blistering and peeling. Lasting side effects depend on the type and location of radiation therapy and can include more serious problems like new malignancies elsewhere on the body. Walmart raises U.S. tobacco purchase age to 21 starting in July Walmart Inc said on Wednesday it will raise the minimum age to purchase tobacco products to 21 across its U.S. stores starting July 1, responding to growing regulatory and political pressure to curb a surge in teenage use of e-cigarettes. It also pushed the world's largest retailer to say it discontinue the sale of fruit-and dessert-flavored electronic nicotine delivery systems. Washington (AFP) - One of the early promises of the ride-hailing era ushered in by Uber and Lyft was that the new entrants would complement public transit, reduce car ownership and help alleviate congestion. But a new study on San Francisco has found the opposite may be in fact be true: far from reducing traffic, the companies increased delays by 40 percent as commuters ditched buses or walking for mobile-app summoned rides. Published Wednesday in Science Advances, the study went back to 2010, before the advent of so-called transportation network companies (TNCs), and compared journey times and road conditions with 2016, they year they became a common sighting. San Francisco, where Lyft and Uber are headquartered, grew from 805,000 inhabitants to 876,000 during that period, as 150,000 jobs were added and the road network updated. The authors, from the University of Kentucky and the San Francisco County Transportation Authority (SFCTA), accounted for these changes via a computer model that asked: what would things look like if ride-hailing companies had not come on the scene? Greg Erhardt, an assistant professor of engineering at the university, told AFP his team had found "some substitution" from private cars to TNCs as well as a slight increase in carpooling. "But the net effect is that two-thirds of TNCs are new cars added to the roadway, that would otherwise not be present," he said. They also found that weekday vehicle hours of delay -- defined as the difference in travel time in congested versus free-flow conditions - increased by 62 percent between 2010 and 2016. By contrast, in the simulated model without ride-hailing companies, delays went up by only 22 percent -- meaning that the TNCs were responsible for 40 percent of the increase. - Deadheading and disruption - The findings were challenged by Lyft, which said the study had failed to account for increased freight and commercial deliveries -- an area in which Amazon and others have aggressively expanded in recent years, as well as tourism growth. Story continues "Lyft is actively working with cities on solutions backed by years of economic and engineering research, such as comprehensive congestion pricing and proven infrastructure investment," the company said in a statement noting its investments in shared rides and bikes. Uber called for more widespread congestion charging, arguing that "while studies disagree on causes for congestion, almost everyone agrees on the solution." The study comes as rideshare drivers in major US cities were set to stage a series of strikes ahead of Uber's keenly anticipated Wall Street debut. Lyft went public in March. Proponents of ridesharing often use the argument that the majority of journeys take place at non-peak times, such as when people have gone for a night out and are returning home from bars. But the study found peaks occurring at 7.00 am and 8.00 am and then again around 5.00 pm and 6.00 pm. Among the cars' most disruptive activities on traffic flow were curbside pickups and drop-offs, especially on major arterial roads, it found. Another notable effect was so-called "deadheading," which Erhardt explained as driving around in search of the next customer. "It doesn't serve a purpose in terms of transporting a person. So that's purely an addition to traffic." - Data scraping - The study relied on background traffic speed from GPS data obtained from a commercial vendor, but when the researchers approached the companies to share their own trip data, they were denied access. They were forced then to rely on a method of data scraping developed by Northeastern University that uses the companies' public apps to learn about vehicle movements. Elliot Martin, a research engineer at the University of California Berkeley's Transportation Sustainability Research Center, who was not connected to the study, said its methodology was rigorous. "I think that they did a good job of trying to draw comparisons, to look at what would have happened in a world where TNCs didn't exist versus where they did exist," he said, adding the methodology was the "best available" given the amount of information. Despite the findings, ride-hailing isn't all bad, said co-author Joe Castiglione of the SFCTA. "They are providing services like helping people move around in the evening when transit isn't great, or assisting the visually impaired," he told AFP. The trick, he said, was to determine "how (to) manage the positive benefits without the negative externalities" through new policies like congestion pricing or curbside regulation. While many cryptocurrency companies are still testing the boundaries of legality, banks are unwilling to open accounts for them. Whilst progress is being made in countries like Switzerland, Lichtenstein, and France, opening an account overseas isnt convenient for many. This has unsurprisingly given rise to shadow banking in the cryptocurrency industry. But just how much of a role does it play? What is shadow banking? So what exactly is shadow banking? As the name suggests, shadow banking is a banking system that operates outside of the same strict boundaries of the traditional financial system. This means that it is not subject to regulatory oversight. When we talk about shadow banking, were not only referring to mortgage lenders, insurance companies, hedge funds, payday lenders, and the like. Shadow banking also applies to unregulated activities that regulated institutions engage in, such as unlisted derivatives and credit default swaps. That isnt to say that shadow banking is illegal (it can be, but certainly isnt always). However, it does come with a much higher level of risk for all participants involved. This is simply because it manages to remain outside the purview of regulators. How? Because it does not accept traditional bank deposits. Shadow banking institutions often offer higher credit without having the necessary recovery mechanisms in place in case of a default. This was clearly demonstrated in the subprime market meltdown in 2008 when shadow banking caught the attention of more regulators around the world. How big of an industry is shadow banking? Despite the global financial crisis triggered in 2008, the shadow banking industry has grown exponentially since then. In fact, CNBC reports that it has grown by some 75% since then and is now a massive $52 trillion industry, placing traditional financial institutions at risk. Because shadow banking institutions have less rigid rules to follow, they can serve some of the people that may be excluded by the banks. This includes people with bad credit history, low capital, and (you guessed it) cryptocurrency companies. Story continues Despite being made up of a myriad of service providers from mortgage lenders to money market funds, loan sharks, and even pawn shops, the majority of activity is focused on short-term lending. This is generally done through collateralised loans and repurchase agreements. Peer-to-peer loans and non-bank lenders are also gaining a larger share in facilitating mortgages around the world. Shadow banking in the cryptocurrency industry Given the dearth of credit following the financial crisis, shadow banking meets a crucial need for credit around the world. From the smallest micro-enterprise in a developing country to the largest cryptocurrency exchange or cannabis company, shadow banking is ideal for those rejected from the traditional financial system. In fact, with companies such as BlockFi and Celsius Network offering crypto lending services, some cryptocurrency companies are even becoming part of the shadow banking industry themselves. While shadow banking isnt illegal in itself, some of the companies operating under that term are conducting illegal activities. On April 30th 2019, the US Department of Justice thanks to the FBI and IRS jointly charged two individuals with providing shadow banking services illegally. The pair were allegedly operating an unlicensed money transmitting business. Additional bank fraud charges were also involved. Both individuals (a US man and an Israeli woman) claimed to work for a company that provided fiat currency banking services to various cryptocurrency exchanges. However, they were doing so under the ruse of complying with AML/KYC practices (they were not actually compliant). They were also making false statements in order to open bank accounts for individuals to purchase cryptocurrency. According to the statement: Reginald Fowler and Ravid Yosef allegedly ran a shadow bank that processed hundreds of millions of dollars of unregulated transactions on behalf of numerous cryptocurrency exchanges. The indictment claims the duo falsely described the nature of their business and that many of their operations were illegal. The takeaway When banks refuse to cooperate with individuals, they have to seek alternative means of finance. The same is true with cryptocurrency companies who need banking services to be able to operate. Many have no choice but to trust in shadow banking institutions. This may solve their problem in the short term. But it also leaves them at risk of bad actors, as the above example illustrates. Since the shadow banking industry is lightly or hardly regulated around the world, it leaves cryptocurrency companies exposed. However, strict regulation around banks has also encouraged plenty of innovation. Shadow banking (when you remove the undesirables from the picture) is enabling many people and businesses around the world to flourish. And, along with cryptocurrency, it may indeed present a rather large threat to traditional finance. The post The role of shadow banking in the cryptocurrency industry appeared first on Coin Rivet. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, born Monday, May 6, is entitled to be the Earl of Dumbarton. But when Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex finally announced the royal babys name on Wednesday, there was no honorary title in sight. Archie, who was first introduced to the public Wednesday, is technically supposed to take on his fathers earldom, according to Marlene Koenig, an author and expert on British and European royalty. If the palace confirms that Archie will not be known as an earl, it means one thing: The Duke and Duchess wanted it that way. This is just their attitude that they want a normal life for their children, Koenig tells TIME. If hes to be known as just Archie (and not Earl Archie) which is his fathers subsidiary (honorary) title its another signal that his parents are going to uphold the familys privacy. Now the closest to the throne in the male line without a title, its likely that Archie, who is seventh in line to the crown, will never have royal engagements, duties or patronages, Koenig says. Even though Queen Elizabeth II is the matriarch and leader of the family, this wasnt her decision. The Queen might not like it, but shes pretty fair about what her family wants to do, Koenig says. She understands that [Harry and Meghan] will want to have a much more normal life. Its not the first move for privacy. In April, after months of speculation on where the Duchess would give birthpopular guesses included Frimley Hospital in Surrey or a home-birth at Frogmore Cottagethe public learned the birth plan would be kept private. Story continues Their Royal Highnesses have taken a personal decision to keep the plans around the arrival of their baby private, the royal family said in a statement. The Duke and Duchess look forward to sharing the exciting news with everyone once they have had an opportunity to celebrate privately as a new family. Days later, the royal family has still chosen not to share where Meghan chose to give birth with avid royal fans. Katie Nicholl, the author of Harry and Meghan: Life, Loss and Love , says the lack of a royal title speaks volumes for the future they have planned, but is also in no way surprising. She went on to say that Duchess American nationality has, for its part, already made a positive impact on the monarchy. The marriage in itself signals change in so many ways, Nicholl tells TIME. Weve seen them re-write the royal script, and I dont see that ending as they become parents. But we cant pin it all on Meghan Markle, who has used her global platform to raise her voice about feminism. Prince Harry has always made it known that he planned for his childrens privacy, even while he was only dating Meghan. In a 2017 interview with Newsweek, he said that he even liked to do his own grocery shopping. I am determined to have a relatively normal life, he said, and if I am lucky enough to have children, they can have one too. Though Archie was only just born, the stage is now set for his life as a royal away from the spotlight. Youre going to see them on the balcony and things like that, but theyre going to be encouraged to have their own lives, Koenig says, though its likely the Sussex children will follow in their parents footsteps through charity worksomething both the Duke and Duchess have been passionate about in their work. From a historical perspective, Koenig, who has been researching the monarchy for decades, feels its disappointing that the grandchild of a future king (Prince Charles) will not have a royal title of any kind. But this choice is not unprecedented. Princess Anne, Queen Elizabeths daughter, opted for her children not to hold the Her Royal Highness titles they could have had, Nicholl explains. Zara and Peter Phillips, her children with her first husband, Mark Phillips, bear no royal titles at all. In royal press releases, their names are styled as any other commoners. The Duke and Duchess apparent decision to keep Archie as a more private royal is also something the monarchy has actually been moving toward. In the 1990s, there was a big push for a smaller monarchy, Koenig says, and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie of Yorkthe children of Queen Elizabeths second son, Prince Andrewbecame the first blood princess to not be working royals. However, despite his lack of title, Archie will always be entitled to the earldom. And when Prince Harry passes on his title at his death, Archie, being the first-born son, will automatically become the Duke of Sussex. Still, that ruling could change when Prince Charlesoften credited as a royal in favor of keeping the monarchy smallbecomes king, Koenig says. As with all royals, the world will wait to see what they do with their positionswhether Archies name is styled as an earl or not. Nicholas Witchell said he lost his train of thought during the television broadcast. (BBC) Veteran BBC reporter Nicholas Witchell said he wanted the ground to open and swallow me up after he stumbled over his words during a live television broadcast discussing the arrival of the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs baby. The established broadcaster, 65, said he had a brain freeze when he was talking about the royal baby on the News at Ten on Monday. The reporter said to the Daily Mail: Id memorised, as you do, one minute twenty [seconds] which was supposed to be the duration of the item, and just lost my train of thought. It was one of those moments when I wanted the ground to open and swallow me up. It was extremely embarrassingit was a brain freeze, like for an actor on stage. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose for a photo with their newborn baby. (GETTY) During the broadcast when Mr Witchell lost his words, he said: Now what of their son, Baby Sussex, no name for him so far. The first Anglo-American birth in the British royal family, uh, now we know, of course, that uhExcuse me, just let me just collect my thoughts. The journalist helped him out by saying: The first Anglo-American birth in the British royal family, and it is it is certain, of courseIm so sorry, let me just once again, uh, hand back to you, Ben. Mr Witchells broadcasting error sparked an array of comments across social media platforms. Sky News anchor Kay Burley came to his defence by saying: For those who think they can do a better job than the supreme professional #nickwitchell, Id like to see you try. Doctors bury their mistakes, lawyers jail theirs and TV journalists broadcast theirs. Get off his case and get on with your day. Read More: Duke and Duchess of Sussex introduce their new baby Meghan Markle praised for body-positive message in bump-hugging dress for first post-birth appearance The programmes editor, Paul Royall, said: For those asking about Nick Witchell, hes absolutely fine. Highly unusually for Nick he lost his train of thought and decided to hand back to the studio. This can happen sometimes even to the most experienced and respected in busy live news broadcasting. Story continues His BBC colleague Jeremy Bowen said: Ive seen some snide comments about Nick Witchell. Please stop, theyre not deserved. Hes a respected and experienced broadcaster, doing his job. I dont know what happened tonight but its certainly no reason to be nasty. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning - PA The first photo of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's "bundle of joy" has finally been revealed. Speaking at St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, new mother Meghan said "he has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm". Harry added: "Parenting is amazing. It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy." The Duke of Sussex announced on Monday afternoon that his wife had given birth to a baby boy in the early hours of Monday morning. In an Instagram post, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's account read: "Their Royal Highnesses son weighs 7lbs. 3oz. "The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives." The world has finally caught a glimpse of royal baby Sussex Credit: Dominic Lipinski /PA The baby is understood to be around a week overdue, with royal watchers keenly awaiting the announcement of the name. From Arthur to Alexander, speculation is mounting as to what the child could be called - and whether the Queen will allow the child to become a Prince. For all the latest royal baby news, including the first picture and name as they are revealed, follow our liveblog here. Latest predictions on what the Royal baby will be called The duke and duchess may decide to go with a traditional name like James, Philip or Arthur. However, the pair are forward-thinking royals and may decide to surprise everyone when naming their first child. Canadian-born Autumn Phillips, and husband Peter Phillips, opted for a non-traditional name for their daughter Savannah - the Queen's first great-grandchild - in 2010. Yesterday William Hill selected a new favourite name - Spencer at 4/1 - the maiden name of Prince Harry's late mother Princess Dianna. Other top picks for the royal baby boy are James and Alexander, both at 5/1. Story continues Princess Charlotte stands next to Savannah Phillips and Prince George at Trooping The Colour 2018 Credit: Karwai Tang/WireImage The Duchess may also seek inspiration from her friends. Her confidante and stylist Jessica Mulroney has twin boys called Brian and John, who were pageboys at the royal wedding. In the US, the most popular name is Liam for a baby boy. In the UK, the most popular name for a boy is Oliver. Harry and Meghan's child, who will be seventh in line to the throne, is extremely unlikely ever to be king, meaning the couple have more freedom with their choices. In comparison, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge chose to give their children traditional names, picking George for their firstborn, who is likely to one day be king. What are the Royal baby name odds? These odds from William Hill were last updated at on May 8, 2019. Top 20 names, including the favourites Spencer 3/1 Alexander 5/1 James 5/1 Arthur 6/1 Philip 6/1 Albert 8/1 Theodore 12/1 Gregory 14/1 Oliver 16/1 Edward 20/1 Grey 20/1 Henry 20/1 Noah 20/1 Charles 25/1 Alfred 33/1 Christopher 33/1 Fred/Frederick 33/1 John 33/1 Sam 33/1 Thomas 33/1 What title will the Royal baby have (and why the baby won't necessarily be a Prince) The firstborn son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is expected to be given the title of the Earl of Dumbarton, unless the Queen makes an unexpected last-minute intervention. The baby boy, who has been nicknamed Baby Sussex by fans in a moniker later adopted by his parents, will not automatically be a prince or have the style "His Royal Highness". The Queen intervened for Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, the children of a future king, in order for them to inherit the titles in a public announcement published months before George's birth. It is considered unlikely, although not impossible, that the Sussexes son will be styled similarly. He is expected to be known formally as the Earl of Dumbarton, because a first son of a duke is allowed to use one of his father's other lesser titles as a courtesy title. The Scottish title - which refers to Dumbarton on the north bank of the River Clyde, to the west of Glasgow - was given to Prince Harry by the Queen on the morning of his wedding. A daughter would have been Lady [first name] Mountbatten-Windsor, rather than the Countess of Dumbarton as daughters are not allowed to take on such titles due to the longheld convention of primogeniture in hereditary peerages. As a boy, Baby Sussex will one day inherit the title the Duke of Sussex from his father. The tradition dates back to a 1917 decree made by George V, which specified that the style "HRH" and the title "prince" or "princess" can be borne by children of the sovereign, children of the sovereign's sons, and the eldest son of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales. Of the Queen's grandchildren, Prince William, Prince Harry, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, the children of her two elder sons, have the HRH title, while Peter and Zara Phillips, children of her daughter the Princess Royal, do not. When Prince Edward - the youngest of the Queen's children - married, he was named as an Earl rather than a Duke, and it was made clear that his children would be styled as Earl and Lady without an HRH title. In December 2012, before the sex of the Cambridge's first child was known, the Queen issued a Letters Patent to extend the title to all of Prince William's future offspring to avoid the difficulty of a firstborn girl not being styled as Princess despite being a future queen. A formal announcement in the London Gazette read: "The Queen has been pleased by Letters Patent under the Great Seal of the Realm dated 31 December, 2012 to declare that all the children of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales should have and enjoy the style, title and attribute of Royal Highness with the titular dignity of Prince or Princess prefixed to their Christian names or with such other titles of honour." No such Letters Patent has yet been issued for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's children. The new arrival is seventh in line to the throne and moves Prince Harry's uncle, the Duke of York, down into eighth place in the line of succession. Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie shift into ninth and 10th place, and the Earl of Wessex - the Queen's youngest son - drops out of the top 10 for the first time to 11th in line. When will Meghan and Harry announce their baby's name? Baby Sussex's name is expected to be announced on Wednesday, with Buckingham Palace due to clarify the title at the same time. The couple used their recently launched Instagram account to announce the birth of their baby boy on Monday. We can expect to find out more news to on their social media site any time now. William and Kate took five days to announce the name of Prince Louis last year, while Prince George and Princess Charlotte's names were announced two days after birth. History behind the favourite baby names George and Charlotte were both favourite names for the young Prince and Princess The Duke and Duchess of Sussex may call him Arthur - a name with a similarly impressive heritage. The most recent royal Arthur was Queen Victoria's son, Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn. Before him, there was Henry VIII's elder brother, Arthur, who tragically died at the age of just 15. The most famous Arthur, of course, is the one we aren't sure existed: romantic hero King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. Edward and James have been popular names for kings in the past, but Philip is more of a rogue contender. The first royal Philip was James VII's brother-in-law Prince Philippe I, Duke of Orleans. Since then, there has not been another royal Philip - until Queen Elizabeth II's husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Naming their child Philip may be a way for the Duke of Sussex to pay tribute to his grandfather. Keep up to date with the Royal family by signing up to our weekly newsletter, Your Royal Appointment. Kenyan youths seeking gainful employment could get a reprieve if a bill seeking a monthly allowance for interns is successful. The Bill was submitted to Parliament on Tuesday. It is the brainchild of Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda who said it reflects article 55 of the Constitution. Article 55 stipulates that the State shall take measures including affirmative action, programmes that will ensure that the youth have access to inter-alia relevant education, training and employment. The principal object of the Bill, Lesuuda said, is to address some of the core challenges affecting Kenyans, more so the youths who are seeking gainful employment opportunities. The Bill states that employers should set aside funds to be paid to interns. Naisula, however, did not mention any figures. In March, Kimilili MP Didimus Barasa sponsored a similar Bill seeking to make it mandatory for all private and public institutions that have over 50 employees to absorb interns. Barasa seeks to amend section 76 of the Employment Act (2007) and wants employers to pay minimum wage to all the interns they take in. An employer who employs more than fifty employees shall offer an internship to applicants who have attained a diploma, undergraduate or post-graduate qualifications. The employer must ensure the number of applicants offered internship is equivalent to 5 percent of the total employers workforce, reads part of the bill. The employer must also maintain the interns throughout the year. This Bill, if passed into law, will see many young job-seekers easily clinch employment opportunities since they will have met the requirement of having work experience, explained Barasa. The bill requires a two-thirds majority to pass through the house. Reuters If you love The Daily Beasts royal coverage, then we hope youll enjoy The Royalist, an all-new members-only series for Beast Inside. Become a member to get it in your inbox on Sunday. The messages of change are everywhere to be found in the birth of Prince Harry and Meghan Markles first child, but even among the many and dramatic breaks with tradition and protocol, the very public embrace of Doria Ragland, Meghans mother, in the heart of the royal family is an unprecedented turn of events. Doria has been deliberately placed front and center in this narrative; the official press release announcing the birth (and who can imagine it was not personally approved by Harry and Meghan) specified: The Duchess mother, Doria Ragland, who is overjoyed by the arrival of her first grandchild, is with Their Royal Highnesses at Frogmore Cottage. Only then did the communique add that Meghan and the baby were both doing well. The sequencing is important. While Baby Sussex and Meghans mixed racial heritage is an important part of the new story of maturity that Britain is currently telling itself and others, Dorias inclusion in the family is also significant. Doria is the great-great-grandchild of a black man and woman enslaved in Georgia for the benefit of white humans. The woman, Mattie, was given the surname Turnipseed by the white people who owned her. They are quite likely to have been distant relations of Prince Harrys ancestors, or at least closely affiliated with them. A Turnipseed is now seventh in line to the throne. Not so long ago, the idea of any outsider, black or white, being allowed into the heart of the royal family would have been unthinkable. Of course, the change truly began with Kate Middleton. William and Kate insisted that her parents be acknowledged and respected by the wider royal family, and the Queen, with an unerring instinct for scenting change in the air, agreed, and has invited the former air hostess and her pilot husband to join her on several high and low profile occasions. Story continues The rest of the family swiftly dropped any lingering snobbish objections and followed suit. It is instructive to consider that while anyone with a vague interest in the British royal family could tell you that Kate Middletons mother is called Carole, few would be able to name the mothers of other royal brides. You may just about know that Diana, the most famous royal bride of all time, was the child of Frances Shand Kydd, but only the super-swots in the class would be able to identify Sarah Fergusons mother as Susan Barrantes, or know that Sophie Wessex was the child of Mary Rhys-Jones, a charity worker and secretary who died in 2005 (even I had to look that one up). This is because the royal brides mother was excluded as a matter of principle and dogma. The woman joined the royal family, she disappeared into the life of wealth and privilege. But the hangers-on, or spongers, were assumed to be on the take, and they were left in no doubt that although they would be getting a Christmas card, a Christmas card was absolutely all they would be getting. Any attempts to cash in on their daughters good fortune would be stubbornly resisted. The exclusion of the royal brides mother and close family fitted into a broader pattern of effectively disowning or rewriting the brides past to reinvent her as suitably royal. Unfortunately, although Kates mother was embraced, old habits die hard, and the hostile attitude to family members persisted in the terrible way in which Pippa Middleton was abandoned by the royal family after she unwittingly became a star of the royal wedding. Kates inability to secure proper protection for her sister is generally considered to have been one of the low points of the story of Kate and William. It is interesting to note how quickly Pippa got her own husband to give her brother James a job at the family estate in Scotland when his life fell apart, a wordless reproach to her sisters impotence. But maybe it is too much to expect the royal family to make wholesale changes all at once, and they really should be genuinely congratulated for the fact that Carole Middleton and now, apparently, Doria Ragland have both been warmly and generously embraced and included in the enfolding embrace of the royal family. The inclusion of the mother of the bride has not been entirely smooth sailing; it has been said that Prince Charles has at times been rather jealous of the amount of time Carole gets to spend with her grandchildren, especially when it comes to Prince George. Charles, always aware of his destiny, feels that he should have much more input into the formation of the young mind of this future king, as he is the only person who could possibly understand. Fortunately, Kate has rejected Charles self-regarding views on child rearing, and seems to adhere instead to the radical proposition that the most important thing for a future king, like any little boy, is to feel loved and safe. Grannies, as so many of us know if we have been lucky enough to be blessed with a loving grandmother, are a big part of that. It is Carole who takes George on adventure days out, Carole who is pictured with the little boy perched upon her shoulders, Carole who occasionally picks him up from school as a surprise and takes him on special outings. Whether or not Doria moves to the U.K. full-time, which many still believe she might, or simply comes on extended visits, it would be unwise to see the inclusion of Doria in the official press release announcing the birth of the child as anything other than a loud and clear declaration that Harry and Meghan intend for Meghan's mother to have just as important a role in the upbringing of their son as Carole has enjoyed in the upbringing of Kate and William's kids. Indeed, Doria may have an even more important role in the life of the new baby Sussex, thanks to the extraordinary bond between her and Meghan. In her former days as a blogger, Meghan often paid glowing tribute to her mom. Meghan also put her money where her mouth is and paid for her mother to attend graduate school after she became rich from her acting work. Doria will certainly be a valuable and significant influence on Baby Sussex, not least because there is a huge, grandmother-shaped hole on the other side of the familywhere Princess Diana should be. The other hole, of course, is that left by the absence of Meghans father, Thomas. He made a dignified statement after the birth: I am proud that my new grandson is born into the British royal family and I am sure that he will grow up to serve the crown and the people of Britain with grace, dignity, and honour. God bless the child and I wish him health and happiness, and my congratulations to my lovely daughter Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry, and God save the Queen. It was a naked pitch for forgiveness. Meghan is well aware of the intelligence and wisdom of her mother; time will tell if she gives her father a second chance. Read more at The Daily Beast. Many investors were worried that a slowdown might be looming for the cruising industry, but Royal Caribbean (NYSE: RCL) just put those fears to rest. The company in early May announced surprisingly strong sales growth thanks to robust passenger volumes and healthy demand for onboard purchases. Royal Caribbean also took the opportunity to lift its 2019 outlook to reflect the latest vacation booking trends. CEO Richard Fain and his team described some of those encouraging signs in a conference call with Wall Street analysts. I followed up on Royal Caribbean's bullish long-term outlook in a chat with CFO Jason Liberty. Below are a few highlights from that interview and the conference call. Two couples on a beach in front of a cruise ship. Image source: Getty Images. Beating targets Net revenue yields were up 9.3% for the quarter, which is approximately 150 basis points higher than the midpoint of our previous guidance. The main drivers of the positive variance were continued strength in onboard revenue and better than anticipated close-in demand [booked nearer the time of launch]. -- Liberty (on the call) Royal Caribbean's net revenue yield, a core growth metric, outpaced management's forecast, and implied market share growth, given that industry leader Carnival announced a less-than-1% increase in its most recent quarter. The pace of growth was a pleasant surprise for investors, and it was driven by onboard spending, which jumped to $730 million from $602 million a year ago. Liberty said spending is shifting toward experiences like shore excursions, and asserted that Royal Caribbean is doing a better job lately at delivering these in-demand products. The latest launch of its new private resort in the Bahamas fits right in with that strategy. Geographic hits and misses It's rare that booking patterns are strong in all regions of the world and like most years, we are seeing some variation this year. -- Liberty (on the call) The cruise line operator noted strong demand in the core Caribbean geography that accounts for about half of its global business. Volumes were surprisingly weak in Europe, meanwhile, likely due to economic uncertainty around Brexit. Story continues The company is responding by shifting some assets toward the U.S., and that move highlights a key advantage of Royal Caribbean's diversified approach to deploying its ships. "We've built a business model that can play in the rain," Liberty told me, so sluggish demand in any one area isn't likely to drag down overall results. Boosting the outlook I have to stress that we are both delighted and a little bit surprised with this very nice outlook as our initial guidance was already very strong. We think that this is a result of several elements, our superior new buildings, strategic revenue management decisions, our global footprint, very well-positioned brands and an enhanced destination offering. -- Fain (on the call) Royal Caribbean now forecasts net revenue yields rising by between 7.5% and 9% in 2019, compared to roughly 4% last year. Executives credit a few positive factors for driving that anticipated acceleration, but among the biggest are the company's business investments. Its upgraded terminals, better technology, and new Bahamas resort appear to be driving higher demand and increased onboard spending by guests. That's good news for Royal Caribbean and its competitors, which have been struggling to find ways to grow revenues at a robust clip given the capacity constraints involved in shipbuilding. These latest results suggest the cruise giants can add plenty of value to vacation outings, and increase ticket demand and onboard spending in the process. Combined with the steady capacity gains from new vessels coming into service, these trends could produce improving growth rates ahead. More From The Motley Fool Demitrios Kalogeropoulos owns shares of Carnival. The Motley Fool recommends Carnival. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. (Repeats with new story tag for some subscribers, no change to text of item) By David Lawder WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - Chinese Vice Premier Liu He goes to Washington for trade talks on Thursday and Friday, setting up a last-ditch bid for progress toward a deal that would avoid a sharp increase in tariffs on Chinese goods ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump. U.S. officials have accused China of reneging in the past week on substantial commitments made during months of negotiations to end their trade war, prompting Trump to set a new deadline to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent, from 10 percent. The higher tariffs will take effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT) on Friday, a spokesman for the U.S. Trade Representative's office said. That comes right in the middle of Liu's visit. Differences over the enforcement mechanism for a trade deal and a timeline for tariff removal have been sticking points. Here is a breakdown of the issues unique to the two-way talks: WILL A DEAL END THE THREAT OF TARIFFS ON CHINESE GOODS? Not likely. The United States has not made public any offers to lift tariffs, though Washington let slide a scheduled March 2 tariff increase on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. But after accusations of China back-pedaling on commitments, Trump on Sunday made his threat to raise tariffs again this Friday. U.S. officials see the continuing threat of tariffs as the "teeth" in any agreement. The United States says Chinese companies have coerced their U.S. partners into improperly transferring proprietary technology - an accusation Beijing strongly denies. A demand for frequent compliance reviews reflects frustration among U.S. officials who have complained that China has failed to follow through on past commitments to implement free-market reforms. HOW DOES THAT DIFFER FROM A NORMAL TRADE NEGOTIATION? Traditional free trade agreements aim to lower trade barriers between the countries signing them. These trade deals are built on the assumption that the parties will adhere to the terms of the agreement, with the benefit being increased trade and export opportunities within the free trade zone. Story continues The Trump administration imposed new tariffs on Chinese goods to try to force changes in China's trade, subsidy and intellectual property practices - similar to financial sanctions that the United States has imposed on foreign entities to increase pressure on their governments for changes in behavior or policies. Such sanctions are typically lifted only after the desired changes are verified by the U.S. Treasury Department. HOW ARE TRADITIONAL TRADE AGREEMENTS ENFORCED? Many free trade deals have built-in dispute settlement mechanisms for state-to-state disagreements over rule compliance, disputes between private investors and governments, or allegations of unfair anti-dumping and anti-subsidy duties. Arbitration panels often hear arguments from both sides, operating like a court. Canada, for example, has brought challenges to U.S. anti-subsidy duties on softwood lumber before panels set up under NAFTA's Chapter 19, a mechanism that would be continued if the new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) if ratified. If Mexico fails to implement effective labor reforms, the United States and Canada could seek redress through arbitration. But critics, including many Democrats in Congress, argue that this enforcement mechanism is weak and largely untested. CAN'T COUNTRIES SEEK RELIEF AT THE WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION? The WTO's 164 members can challenge each other over unwarranted trade restrictions, illegal subsidies and other unfair practices and seek resolution through dispute settlement panels. But this process is seen as slow, and its decisions too easy for countries to ignore. The United States has argued that the WTO has failed to rein in China's unfair practices, so it has acted on its own to force change in China. The WTO's appellate body also could grind to a halt this year as Washington is currently blocking the appointment of judges. Because three judges are needed to rule on appeals, the system could break down when two judges' terms expire in December 2019. CAN COUNTRIES JUST QUIT TRADE DEALS THEY DON'T LIKE? Yes, most trade pacts have provisions for termination, but this has never been tested by the United States. President Trump frequently threatened to quit NAFTA during negotiations last year, and his administration has considered issuing a six-month withdrawal notice as a tactic to pressure Congress into approving the trade deal that would replace it. But some U.S. lawmakers and legal experts argue that Trump may not have authority to quit the agreement without Congress' approval because the U.S. Constitution grants Congress explicit power to regulate commerce with foreign nations. Any move to quit NAFTA is likely to draw a court challenge. (Reporting by David Lawder; Writing by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Kim Coghill) So youve gone through all the steps to start your own small business and finally have your design practice up and running. Now its time to figure out how to run your company so that you can avoid the pitfalls that cause some small businesses to fail. The Small Business Administration estimates that 66 percent of businesses make it to two years, more than half survive for five or more years, and a third last more than 10 years. How can you be certain your endeavor will be one of the ones that thrive? Let AD PRO teach you how to set yourself up for success. Weve put together a simple, eight-step guide that breaks down how to run a small business the right way. 1. Plan for success (in writing) Write a business plan, and then follow it. Dont get bogged down by the process of how to write a business plan; just get your thoughts down on paper and keep it simple. You can choose to outline: a one-page business plan, which summarizes your goals for your business in an easy-to-review format. a lean start-up plan, which is a five- to ten-page document that goes into a bit more detail and includes your business strategy, the tasks required to achieve your goals with dates for when you plan to complete them, projected sales, and estimated cash flow and spending. A traditional standard plan, the most formal type of plan, which is what youd show potential investors, potential employees, and banks to support loan applications. It should be limited to 40 pages or fewer. Your business plan is a road map for your company, so you want to put in time and effort to make it a document that can guide your entrepreneurial journey. Keep updating it frequently (at least two times per year), so that its a living, breathing document that can evolve along with your company and continue to help you run your business. Include goals for the next three, six, and 12 months. Figure out where you want to be in a year, and then work backward, incorporating short-term objectives into your business plan. Youll feel satisfied and accomplished as you attain small milestones throughout the year. The more organized you are and the more youve planned ahead, the more youll set yourself up for success. Story continues 2. Determine your profit margin First, you need to think about how you plan to turn a profit. Then, do a break-even analysis: Look at your business expenses and consider how much youll need to sell to cover those expenses and start making money. Calculating your profit margin, the amount by which your revenue exceeds the costs of running your business, can be done by a simple formula: Gross profit margin discerns the profitability of a single product. Take the difference between the amount you charge for the product and how much it costs you to make and deliver it, and divide that number by how much you charge for the product. Net profit margin better determines the overall profitability of your business because it considers total sales minus business expenses, divided by total revenue. Profit margins differ based on industry, whether its a new or established company, and how many people the business employs. According to a 2013 article by Marc A. Molinsky published by the American Society of Interior Designers, the process and cost of running an interior design firm have remained consistent since the year 2000. His assessment posits that in order for interior designers to remain profitable (meaning to attain an income that is reasonable for an established interior designers professional expertise and services), they must achieve an average profit margin of between 35 to 40 percent. Consider these statistics when determining the pricing for your goods and services. 3. Dont spread yourself too thin financially Many advise new business owners to use as much of their own money as possible so that theyre not starting out indebted to any person or bank. You dont want to be worried about owing a ton of money during your first year in business, as it can take you months or even years to begin turning a profit. However, loansboth personal and bank loanscan be a critical piece of the puzzle when youre first starting out because they can provide the much-needed capital that will help get your business off the ground. Keep in mind that one of the top reasons why small businesses fail is lack of funds, so be sure you have a rainy-day stash as a safety net. Two pieces of advice Molinsky has for keeping your business in the black are to not pay project-related expenses before clients pay you, and to collect an up-front retainer or hourly billing. Small business owner Chris Abbate shares a couple of strategies she uses to run Novita, her 22-year-old New Yorkbased media relations company that caters to the A&D community. I saved some money so that I could have the luxury to work and leave some money in the business to give it a chance to grow. Reinvesting is so important, she explains. I also started small with part-time employees and even some interns. This flexible and reasonable workforce again allowed me to keep costs down and continue to invest in the company. Be cautious not to take on too many expenses early on, begin with modest operations and few paid employees, and try not to take on too much debt. This prudence can better position your business in the long run. 4. Pay your bills and taxes on time In the vein of being cautious and conservative financially, its crucial to stay on top of all payments and settle all bills and taxes in a timely fashion. You dont want to start out with unnecessary debt or numerous penalties for late payments. Plus, you do not want to obtain a reputation for flaking on your debt, as that can impede future financial borrowing situations and even hinder business relationships. And its never a good idea to mess with the IRS, which can enforce strict fines or even seize personal assets for delinquent tax payment. Do yourself a favor by staying current on your debts to help prevent cash flow and other financial issues in the future. 5. Align with the right people Dont be too proud to ask for help: Consult with trusted advisors, mentors, and former colleagues whose opinions mean something to you. Tyler Hamilton, a principal and co-owner of New York firm Spread PR, advises, Talk to people who support you. They can offer constructive criticism that helps you move forward. Designer Lori Weitzner, who founded her textile and wallcovering company, Weitzner, in 2004, recalls, I had many mentors help me because I was not business-minded, so I knew I needed people who could help me on the business side. In fact, my cousin Stewart helped me with my business plan. Vanessa DeLeon, owner and principal interior designer at her namesake New York firm, suggests surrounding yourself with the right people who can help your business flourish: Create a network of people who can refer you and work with you in some capacity, for example, architects, realtors, developers, etc., she says. Develop relationships with reps, attend markets, and make connections with contractors. Molinsky, the author of the ASID article, stresses that successful design firms generate more than 85 percent of their revenue from referrals, so you should look at your clients as a way to market your firm. Take care when servicing your clients so that they can act as your sales force out in the industry. And finally, once youre in a position to hire support staff, be sure to find people who are smart, eager, and interested in helping your start-up succeed. A company is only as strong as its employees. Be judicious with those you choose to employ, as they will be a reflection of you and your brand. 6. Focus on energy management Dont try to do everything yourself. You hear a lot about the importance of time management, but in order to be efficient with your time, you must also be economical about how youre expending energy. At first, you might be trying to save money by doing everything on your own. But its best to allocate certain tasks to professionals or at least people who excel at things that may not be your greatest strengths. This will help you avoid burnout and ensure that important things, like your financials, are being properly handled. And hiring an assistant to maintain your schedule, do clerical duties, and keep you organized might be some of the best money youll spend. 7. Learn from your mistakes Its inevitable that you will make mistakes on this entrepreneurial journey. But make sure you see the lesson in each error, pick yourself up, and move on. It is very unlikely for someone to go into this [industry] blindly and thinking they can succeed without bumps in the road, says DeLeon. There will be trials and tribulations, but the key is learning from your mistakes. Now, I embrace those mistakes that I made early on in my career. They have made me stronger and have made me who I am today. Ive learned you cant buy experience. 8. Stay nimble To be successful in the design industry or any field, its essential that you maintain your competitive edge. Stay abreast of what your competition is doing. Get familiar with new technology and always know whats going on in your industry. Keeping an eye on the changing landscape is critical to success, Abbate says. We would never have conceived of the tools that are available now that did not exist when we launched. But one thing is knowing about them, and another is leveraging them to benefit your business and your clients businesses. We are big believers in personal development and giving all of the team members opportunities to learn more about tools and services that keep us ahead. This is so important for employee retention and happiness. Continue to evolve yourself, your business plan, and your company. Never stop learning, keep your eyes open to inspiration around you, and be adamant about staying relevant in your industry. And most importantly: Dont give up! Remember why you wanted to start your own firm in the first place, and run your company like a boss. (Fixes typographical error in final paragraph to read "possible" instead of "possibly") By Jonathan Allen and Joseph Ax May 8 (Reuters) - In two U.S. school shootings within eight days, students have attempted to tackle the shooters, sometimes at the cost of their own lives, drawing praise for reducing the bloodshed by taking a step that experts agree should only be a last resort. At the University of North Carolina at Charlotte last week, Riley Howell, 21, was killed as he challenged a gunman in his classroom after school officials sent out an emergency alert with a mantra disseminated by U.S. law enforcement: "Run, Hide, Fight." The three-pronged approach has been endorsed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security since at least 2012 as part of a public safety campaign, and has been adopted by many workplaces and colleges, including Cornell and Tennessee State universities, as their standard response to on-site shooters. It is less common in high schools. But that did not stop several students from charging the shooters who opened fire the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math School near Denver on Tuesday, according to witnesses. Kendrick Ray Castillo, 18, the only person killed, was among those rushing the shooters, preventing further loss of life. Eight people were wounded. That school is part of the Douglas County School District, which has adopted what is known as the Standard Response Protocol for shooters and other emergencies, according to its website. The protocol calls for the school to go into lockdown by locking classroom doors, turning out lights and keeping students quiet. Both approaches have their risks - an inevitability when confronting a life-or-death situation. "If you're in a high school cafeteria and someone starts shooting, you don't have the ability to hide or lock out at that point," said Gary Sigrist, a school security consultant with Safeguard Risk Solutions. "So you teach people, here's what you can do in an event. That includes, if you choose, going after the attacker." Story continues In Monday's Colorado shooting, one of the shooters was already in a classroom when he pulled out his handgun. Brendan Bialy, a student enrolled in the Marine Corps Delayed Entry Program, was among the students who rushed the shooter and survived. Chris Dorn, an analyst at the security consultancy Safe Havens International, noted similarities between Bialy and Howell, who was described as a muscular athlete by friends and family and was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps program. "The risk of all this is that while it's good to highlight heroic actions it can be dangerous to give the impression that this is what all school staff should do," Dorn said. "Every school has those types of people and we want schools to leverage them but it's kind of dangerous to apply those concepts to the whole population." Dorn advises against "Run, Hide, Fight" approaches for safety programs at high schools. A typical high school, with its warrens of small, lockable classrooms and a stable regular population that can practice drills, is suited to lockdowns. The value of "Run, Hide, Fight" is greater during shootings in public settings like shopping malls, plazas or certain college campuses, Dorn said. The official DHS guidance is to run if possible; quietly hide, ideally in a place that can be locked, if fleeing is not possible; and, fight only as "an absolute last resort." "Commit to your actions and act as aggressively as possible against the shooter," the DHS guidance reads, urging to get others to help ambush the shooter with chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors or other improvised weapons. "Be prepared to cause severe or lethal injury to the shooter." (Reporting by Jonathan Allen and Joseph Ax in New York; Editing by Scott Malone and Bill Trott) Since Election Day, President Trumps businesses have sold at least 30 luxury condos and oceanfront lots for about $33 million. That includes millions of dollars in properties to secretive shell companies, which can hide the identities of buyers or partners involved in the deals, a USA TODAY investigation has found. Now, details of some of those deals and other transactions by Trump's family business could be unmasked as special counsel Robert Mueller expands his inquiry into election-meddling by Russia and whether Trump's campaign colluded. Federal investigators are expected to delve into records revealing some of the Presidents most closely guarded secrets, including how much money he makes, who he does business with and how reliant he is on wealthy, politically-connected foreigners. A half-dozen experts contacted by USA TODAY said they expect Mueller and his team to pursue everything from Trumps income tax returns to the bank records underlying his companies real estate transactions in a quest to identify people who have financial relationships with the President and his business and political associates. Muellers sweeping mandate means his investigators can get, or may already have, The Trump Organizations phone records, e-mail and contracts, exposing sensitive records and long-secret details to eventual release as part of the public record of the investigation. Trumps real-estate business in particular has relied on wealthy Russians and other foreigners, sometimes as buyers of condos in the company's towers around the world and as investors or partners in the projects. Trumps son, Donald, said at a 2008 real estate conference, Russians make up a pretty disproportionate cross-section of a lot of our assets. ... We see a lot of money pouring in from Russia. Experts say Muellers move to follow the money has the potential to expose Trump, his family and his associates to legal troubles that go beyond election-year collusion with the Russians. It opens the door to revelations of any business-related malfeasance discovered during Mueller's look at Trump's business network. Story continues The investigation could shine renewed light on eyebrow-raising deals from Trumps past, such as his 2008 sale of a South Florida mansion to Russian tycoon Dmitry Rybolovlev for $95 million or the international financing behind a condo-hotel he developed with foreign partners in New Yorks SoHo neighborhood. It could also pierce the increasing secrecy around who is buying real estate from Trump. A USA TODAY investigation last month revealed that 70% of Trump real estate sales since he won the GOP nomination were to secretive shell companies, compared to 4% in the two years before that. The clear shift to those kinds of purchases, which help obscure the identities of the buyers, raise questions about the source of profits that ultimately flow to the President because he has not fully divested from his companies. With increasing intensity and frequency, Trump has been fuming on Twitter and elsewhere as he learns more about the kinds of legal questions and exposure that he and his family could face. In one report last week, aides said Trump was especially disturbed to learn that Mueller is likely able to get several years worth of his income tax returns. This week, Trumps launched daily public attacks against the Attorney General, Justice Department leaders and Muellers investigators, saying its a witch hunt. Special Counsel Mueller's office declined to answer questions about the scope of its investigation and what elements of Trump's businesses might be under scrutiny. Jack Blum, a Washington attorney specializing in white collar crime and former staff lawyer for two U.S. Senate committees, said efforts by Muellers office to investigate all manner of financial transactions is necessary for the special counsel to answer questions of Russian connections to Trump or his associates. What you have to do is lay all this stuff out lay out all the transactions and then figure out, Why did people do certain things? Blum said. If I see a flow of money to somebody, I want to figure out, Why is that money flowing? Blum said real estate records and corporation records are likely to be of special interest to investigators, and likely would be more revealing than tax returns. If you have property and you sell the property, thats a taxable event, Blum said. On the other hand, who lent you money to buy the property, how you got it, who set it up for you thats a whole different matter. And thats not anything that will show up on a tax return. You cant really tackle the broader problems of corruption or crime without also being able to follow the money and get at the financing of those activities, said Mark Hays, who investigates international corruption cases with the nonprofit watchdog group Global Witness, based in London and Washington. It is unclear what the Justice Department would do if it found questionable business practices that are unrelated to Russian election collusion. But the bar to bring charges might be lower. For example, Mueller would not necessarily have to prove that Trumps companies or associates actively conspired to break laws in some instances, experts said. Trump has said it would be a violation for Mueller to venture beyond Russias meddling to examine his companies or his associates business dealings. John Tobon, a deputy special agent for the Department of Homeland Security in Miami, said luxury real estate sellers who dont screen their buyers closely enough can be charged in conspiracy cases. The law of conspiracy reaches pretty far and every person in the conspiracy doesnt necessarily have to be clued in to all the details, said Tobon, speaking about money-laundering in general and not specific transactions involving any specific companies. So legally youre exposed in these transactions if you dont take that extra step of asking who is the person behind 123 LLC. Trumps Atlantic City casino had similar troubles in the 1990s, when the Treasury Department fined the company for not reporting gamblers who cashed out more than $10,000 in a single day. The reporting requirement is designed to prevent money laundering. Trumps Atlantic City casino had similar troubles in The luxury real-estate market where Trumps companies have done business for decades is particularly ripe, according to law enforcement experts, for foreigners looking to hide assets from tax authorities or launder illicit funds. That includes wealthy Russians and oligarchs from the former Soviet republics. Real estate professionals in New York and Miami have told USA TODAY that Trump has sold dozens of condos in both cities to wealthy Russians. The scope of Muellers inquiry was established in a one-page order signed May 17 by Acting Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. The order gives Mueller purview to investigate any links and/or coordination between the Russian Government and individuals associated with the campaign of Donald Trump but also any matters that arose or may arise directly from the investigation and other matters covered by Justice Department regulations. U.S. anti-laundering laws require financial institutions, title insurance companies and others involved in real estate and other transactions to file reports with the U.S. Treasury Department and other financial regulators that will likely be of interest to investigators, said Hays, of Global Witness. The records called suspicious activity reports and currency transaction reports can be used to flag suspect financial activity by identifying patterns in withdraws or deposits, and unusual changes in asset ownership over time. The Treasury Department keeps a database of those reports available for federal law enforcement, meaning if any have been submitted related to business deals involving Trumps companies or his associates, Muellers team has access without a warrant or court order. Youre looking not only just for data, but for patterns within the data and associations, Hays said. So you need to see the whole picture. One dramatic question is whether Mueller already has, or will, pursue Trumps income tax returns a flashpoint for the President throughout the campaign since he has resisted calls to release them publicly as modern-day presidential candidates have done for about four decades. Mueller would need to show probable cause to obtain the taxes with a judges approval before the IRS would turn them over but Trump and the public may never know, said Matthew Miller, a former Department of Justice spokesman under the Obama Administration. The request to a judge is done in secret so the President wouldnt even know if Mueller had asked for them, he said. The same is true for some of the other kinds of internal business records, such as e-mail, Miller said. They would need to show probable cause that those kinds of business records are essential to determining if there was collusion with the Russians, Miller said. But, he said recent e-mails released by Donald Trump Jr. himself could help provide that probable cause because they show he set up a meeting with a Russian lawyer, himself and two top campaign officials based on the premise that they would be provided damaging information on Hillary Clinton. Trump Jr. said the meeting yielded nothing useful. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Russia probe could reveal Trump's closest-held secrets * Plane caught fire on emergency landing * Forty-one people were killed * Fire crews not mobilized until after landing * Ground staff knew of problems on inbound jet By Polina Nikolskaya and Gleb Stolyarov MOSCOW, May 8 (Reuters) - Staff at a Moscow airport scrambled fire crews one minute after a malfunctioning passenger jet crash-landed on Sunday, raising questions among some senior Russian aviation industry figures about whether the staff acted quickly enough. The speed of the response to the emergency, in which 41 people were killed in an intense blaze, has come into focus because the aircraft, which had signaled technical problems prior to landing, stood on the runway for just under two minutes before the first fire truck started tackling the flames. Alexander Zhuravkov, head of the committee for emergency situations of Russian airport industry association "Aeroport," said fire crews arrived within the maximum time after the alert was raised, as set out in domestic regulations and international standards. "The question, though, is why the alert was raised after the landing, and not before, in a timely fashion, since there was an expected landing underway of an aircraft with an emergency situation on board," Zhuravkov told Reuters. According to a timeline of the incident released late on Tuesday by Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport, staff on the ground knew minutes before the landing that the plane's main radio communication system and autopilot were knocked out. According to flight-tracking service flightradar24.com, the plane had also issued a distress signal prior to landing denoting an emergency. Under airport rules, those warnings do not automatically trigger mobilization of fire crews. Asked why fire crews were not scrambled earlier, a spokesman for Sheremetyevo declined to comment beyond the timeline. Russia's transport ministry and the plane's operator, Aeroflot, declined to comment. The Investigative Committee, the state body investigating the crash, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Story continues Ilona Borisova, head of the Sheremetyevo branch of the flight attendants' trade union, said that the evidence available to staff on the ground before the landing, taken together, should have prompted pre-emptive action. "I'm worried that they did not take a holistic approach to the issue," said Borisova, referring to how officials on the ground interpreted the distress signals from the plane. "If potentially someone is in a tricky situation and there is no communication with him...That means probably that logic dictates you need to undertake some kind of pre-emptive measures," she added. Borisova said that meant fire crews being positioned to wait for the plane to land. DISTRESS SIGNALS The Sukhoi jet took off on Sunday evening from Sheremetyevo airport with 78 passengers and crew on board then turned back and asked to land. It made an emergency landing at 18:30 (15:30 GMT), hit the tarmac hard and caught fire, leaving a trail of burning fuel behind it as it skidded down the runway. Airport fire crews were despatched one minute after the plane landed, according to the timeline, and an account given to reporters by Russian Transport Minister Yevgeny Ditrikh. Video footage showed that the first fire unit trained its hose on the plane just under one minute later. By then some people on board had escaped via emergency chutes but the back half of the fuselage was engulfed in intense flames. Before then, the plane had transmitted multiple warnings of technical problems, according to Sheremetyevo airport, which said its timeline was based on data from its operating systems and radio logs. At 18:12, the captain told air traffic control that he was coming back in to land because of a failure of radio communication. Most planes have a backup system for communication in the event of emergency. At 18:13, the captain repeated he was coming back in to land and said the plane's autopilot system had also failed. The head of air traffic control reported at 18:14 to the duty head of the airport that the plane was coming back to land because of a failure of communications and the auto-pilot system. Apparently quoting from the exchange between the two people on the ground, the timeline said: "According to the pilot's report, the approach and landing of the aircraft are taking place as standard." In parallel, the plane's transponders were sending codes about the same technical problems, according to flightradar24.com. The jet started issuing a so-called 7600 distress signal - denoting a loss of communications - at 18:09, and a 7700 signal - indicating an emergency - at 18:26. At 18:31, the head of air traffic control announced an alarm. That, said three industry insiders who spoke to Reuters, is the signal for fire crews to mobilize. According to the airport's timeline, the crew did not issue a "Mayday" call, which, Russian civil aviation experts said, would require an automatic mobilization of fire crews. The 7700 emergency signal could prompt a mobilization of fire crews, but that is not automatic, said Sergei Kovalyov, head of Russia's air traffic controllers' trade union. "The 7700 signal should appear on the (air traffic controller's) monitor. If the controller sees it, he should clarify, should ask: 'Have you not declared a distress call?' The button could have been pressed by mistake," said Kovalyov. Reuters could not establish whether the controllers sought or received this clarification. "The controllers acted in line with their professional instructions," Kovalyov said. The government body that oversees air traffic controllers declined to comment. (Additional reporting by Maria Vasilyeva and Anton Zverev in MOSCOW; Writing by Christian Lowe) By Olesya Astakhova MOSCOW (Reuters) - Centenarian World War Two veteran Nikolay Bagayev will be among Russians across the country commemorating the anniversary of the war's end on Thursday. He told his story to his granddaughter, Reuters Moscow bureau reporter Olesya Astakhova. "A starving peace is better than a well-fed war," says 100-year-old decorated World War Two veteran Nikolay Bagayev. As Russia on Thursday marks the 74th Victory Day since the end of World War Two in Europe, with nationwide events headlined by a vast military parade on Red Square, he will be among millions across the country celebrating the occasion. Born in 1918, not long after the Bolshevik Revolution, Bagayev lived through many of the tumultuous chapters of the Soviet Union in the 20th century and was twice wounded - once gravely - in what Russians call the Great Patriotic War. He spent much of the war in forests near Moscow, fought in the Battle of Moscow, and later took part in the Soviet Red Army's assault on Koenigsberg, then part of Nazi Germany and now, as part of Russia, known as Kaliningrad. After the war, he worked in the steppes of the Soviet republic of Kazakhstan, living at first in a tent, and helped to build the cosmodrome, now known as Baikonur, that sent the first man - Yuri Gagarin - into space in 1961. Bagayev now lives in Korolyov, a town outside Moscow and draws a veteran's pension of 40,000 roubles ($613) a month, much higher than the national average. Despite his years, he remains active and can be seen around town, sometimes donning a uniform festooned with medals. He uses a mobile phone and a laptop and occasionally poses for selfies with locals. The Soviet Union that he lived in for most of his life is long gone but, almost three decades after its breakup, he remains a committed communist and continues to make contributions to the opposition Communist Party. (Reporting by Olesya Astakhova; Writing by Tom Balmforth; Editing by Kevin Liffey) The parents of a KEMU student who was allegedly killed by her ex-boyfriend in Meru have faced the media, saying their daughter was preparing to relocate to Nairobi before she met her death. Describing 21-year-old Ann Kanario as a promising girl, the parents said their daughter had gotten an internship in a bank in Nairobi. The dad, Isaac Kaura, said Ann left home for Imenti North last Thursday as she prepared to relocate from her rented house located a few meters from KEMU main campus. Ann said she was going to collect her belongings and, thereafter, travel to Nairobi, where she was slated to begin her attachment this week. Her mother sent her money on Friday at around 8:30 am. However, at 12 noon (Friday), her phone was switched off. We thought maybe she needed time alone as she planned her journey, said Kaura. We were shocked to learn about her death. Her elder sister was the one who informed us about Anns death. She called us on phone while crying and broke the heartbreaking news to us. I never imagined my daughter would die in such a brutal manner, he continued. Kaura, who is a secondary school teacher, said Ann hadnt introduced any man to them as her boyfriend. She was an independent-minded girl. Ann couldnt hide [from us] anything she felt was of interest to her and us. We dont understand what led to her killing. She had no challenges, whatsoever, in the lifestyle she lived, said the father. The deceaseds mother, Nkirote Kaura, recalled communicating with her daughter on Friday morning. Nkirote says her daughter told her she would, later in the day, travel to Nairobi to familiarise herself with her internship station. After sending her money early Friday, we couldnt get hold of her on phone. Her death is a big loss to us, said a tearful Nkirote. Also Read: Decomposing Bodies of University Lovers Found in Apparent Murder-suicide Heres a video report by KTN News. San Francisco has officially banned cashless stores, with city officials saying businesses that only accept payment by card or app exclude low-income people who may not have access to bank accounts or credit. In a unanimous vote Tuesday, the citys Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance that will require brick-and-mortar business to accept cash payment for goods and services. The law makes an exception for internet-only businesses like ride-hailing companies, as well as for food trucks and pop-up stores. The ordinance specifically pointed to the many City residents who are denied access to credit or are unable to open bank accounts and therefore wouldnt be able to use stores that dont accept cash. This is especially true of the very poor, the ordinance says, noting that particularly vulnerable groups are homeless and immigrant populations. San Francisco a city at the heart of Northern Californias tech-boom-fueled affordable housing crisis had about 7,500 homeless people in 2017, including more than 4,300 who were unsheltered or living outdoors, per its latest count. About 6.5% of U.S. households are unbanked, according to a 2017 report from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. meaning that no one in the household has a checking or savings account. For black families, that figure is even higher, with 17% who are unbanked, and 14% for Hispanic families. In this reality, not accepting cash payment is tantamount to systematically excluding segments of the population that are largely low-income people of color, the ordinance added. Big thx to all of my colleagues on the @sfbos for their unanimous vote today to ensure San Franciscans have equitable access to our shops and services. https://t.co/CR5yxSp8NP Vallie Brown (@VallieBrownD5) May 8, 2019 Last month, ahead of the city supervisors vote, Amazon said its Amazon Go stores, which are meant to provide a shopping experience that doesnt involve a cash register, would begin to accept cash. Similarly, salad company Sweetgreen announced last month that it would accept cash at all its restaurants by the end of the year. Story continues New Jersey and Philadelphia also passed laws banning cashless stores earlier this year, and similar legislation has been introduced in New York City. Businesses in San Francisco have up to 90 days to comply with the new rule, or face fines. San Francisco's software industry is raking in new investment, with 70 local companies securing venture capital. New funding rounds were recently announced by software ventures KeepTruckin, Expanse, Rippling, tray.io and Carrot Fertility, according to company database Crunchbase. KeepTruckin topped the city's recent funding headlines by announcing a $149 million Series D round on April 23, led by Greenoaks Capital. According to its Crunchbase profile, "KeepTruckin is a San Francisco-based startup trying to make it easier for trucking companies to manage their fleets and have their drivers legally log their hours. KeepTruckin is on a mission to improve the efficiency and profitability of America's trucking industry by building great technology products for truck drivers and fleet managers. The KeepTruckin ELD is the easiest to use and most affordable electronic logging system on the market." The six-year-old company has raised four previous funding rounds, including a $50 million Series C round in 2018. Next up, Expanse raised $70 million in Series C funding, in a round announced on April 9 and led by TPG Growth. According to Crunchbase, "Expanse provides IT and security teams with visibility into their global internet attack surface, helping them discover unknown assets and reduce and manage their exposure to online threats. Expanse is trusted by some of the worlds largest enterprises and government agencies to monitor and track more than 400 million Internet- and cloud-connected assets comprising more than 10% of the global Internet. Using leading-edge collection and analysis technology, Expanse will improve any organizations awareness and visibility to help prevent successful attacks." Founded in 2012, the company has raised three previous rounds, including a $40 million Series B round in 2017. Meanwhile, Rippling raised $45 million in Series A funding, announced on April 3. The round's investors were led by Kleiner Perkins. Story continues From the company's Crunchbase profile, "Rippling is the world's first way to manage your company's HR and IT from your team's payroll and benefits, to their computers and cloud apps all in one, integrated system. Want to hire someone, for example? Just click a button, and Rippling can instantly: add new hires to your payroll and benefits, create their email, ship their work computer and even create their user account across all your cloud apps, like Gmail, Slack and Microsoft Office." Rippling last raised $7 million in seed funding in 2017. Also of note, sales automation company tray.io raised $37 million in Series B funding, announced on April 29 and led by Spark Capital. From Crunchbase, "Tray.io believes that any organization can and should automate. With the Tray Platform, citizen automators throughout organizations can easily automate complex processes through a powerful, flexible platform, and can connect their entire cloud stack thanks to APIs. With Tray.ios visual workflow builder our customers create automations to drive their business processes without writing a single line of code." The company previously raised $14 million in Series A funding in 2018. Rounding out the city's top local funding events, employee benefits and fertility company Carrot Fertility raised $11 million in Series A funding, announced on April 17 and financed by CRV. From Crunchbase, "Carrot offers a fertility benefit for modern companies. It is focused on making fertility care easier, accessible and more affordable." The company previously raised $3.6 million in seed funding in 2017. In total, San Francisco-based software companies have raised $1.9 billion in venture funding over the past month, and $20 billion over the past year. This story was created automatically using local investment data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. By David Lawder and Ben Blanchard WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) - Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will travel to Washington for two days of trade talks this week, China said on Tuesday, setting up a last-ditch bid for a deal that would avoid a sharp increase in tariffs on Chinese goods ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump. U.S. officials have accused China of reneging in the past week on substantial commitments made during months of negotiations aimed at ending their trade war, prompting Trump to issue a new deadline to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent from 10 percent. The higher tariffs are scheduled to take effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT) on Friday, a spokesman for the U.S. Trade Representative's office said. That comes right in the middle of Liu's visit. China's Commerce Ministry said that Liu, who leads the talks for Beijing, will spend only two days in Washington - Thursday and Friday - instead of the three days he had previously planned before Trump announced the tariff increase. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday cast doubt on the talks, telling reporters China had backtracked on previous commitments. The gloomier tone shook Wall Street, causing major stock indexes to tumble more than 1 percent. Treasury yields and oil prices also fell as the potential for an unraveling of the trade talks sparked fresh concerns about global economic growth. During a 10-month U.S.-China war, U.S. tariffs have been imposed on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, and retaliatory Chinese tariffs slapped on $110 billion worth of American products. Trump has pushed for sweeping changes to China's policies on intellectual property theft, technology transfers industrial subsidies and market access. Trump has criticized the U.S. trade deficit with China, which hit a record $419 billion in 2018, as stealing American manufacturing jobs. His hard line on China has played well with his political base in Midwestern industrial and farm states, with Trump seeking re-election next year. Story continues Trump had initially set the tariff increase to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, including internet modems and routers, printed circuit boards, vacuum cleaners and furniture, in January. He delayed the deadline until March 1 to allow negotiations, and then postponed the increase indefinitely, citing progress in the talks. CHINESE LAWS A person with knowledge of the talks told Reuters that Chinese negotiators sought to reverse earlier agreements to make changes to Chinese laws to reflect policy changes on a "comprehensive" range of issues. It would be difficult to overcome this setback and reach agreement on other sticking points, such as subsidies and cloud-computing access, in just two days of talks, the person said. Wendy Cutler, a former USTR chief negotiator for Asia, said it was normal to see drama in the final stages of a major trade negotiation, but indications of Chinese backtracking on previously agreed text were cause for concern. "That signals a deep lack of trust between the negotiating teams, which can be hard to rebuild," said Cutler, now managing director of the Asia Society Policy Institute in Washington. "It all now hinges upon what Liu He is bringing with him to Washington," Cutler added. "If he can convince Lighthizer that China will honor commitments made during previous rounds then things presumably can get back on track so to the remaining sticking points can be addressed." China's response to the prospect of new tariffs has been reserved. Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said in a press briefing on Tuesday that mutual respect was the basis for reaching a trade agreement. "Adding tariffs can't resolve any problem," Geng said. "Talks are by their nature a process of discussion. It's normal for both sides to have differences. China won't shun problems and is sincere about continuing talks," Geng said. China will keep calm against threats of higher tariffs from the United States and has "complete confidence" in its ability to face challenges in trade talks, a commentary in the Communist Party's People's Daily, China's top newspaper said on Wednesday. China has repeatedly said it will make changes to open its economy on its own timeline, not in response to trade disputes. But recently it has adopted new laws, including a foreign investment law, and amended others, moves some see as efforts to tackle the concerns of the United States and other foreign investors, including those from China's largest trading partner, the European Union. The United States now has 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion of Chinese machinery and technology goods, and 10 percent tariffs on $200 billion of products ranging from computer modems and routers to furniture, lighting and building materials. Negotiations to remove U.S. tariffs have been one of the remaining sticking points. China wants the tariffs removed. U.S. officials want to keep some, if not all, as part of any final deal to ensure China lives up to its commitments. (Reporting by David Lawder in Washington and Ben Blanchard in Beijing; Additional reporting by Jeff Mason and David Shepardson in Washington, Michael Martina in Beijing and Sinead Carew in New York; Editing by Will Dunham and Simon Cameron-Moore) In a former life, John McAfee ran a cybersecurity firm. Now he wants to rally his former fierce rival Kaspersky to help CZ crack Binance's bitcoin hack. | Source: Shutterstock By CCN: Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao is receiving support from some of the most unlikely places. John McAfee has extended a helping hand to the beleaguered Binance chief. In a tweet, McAfee relied on a little bit of self-depreciation to charm Zhao, the latter of whom is learning quickly who his real friends are. McAfee, who is often the brunt of jokes in the crypto industry for his bombastic claims, realizes that $40 million worth of bitcoin stolen is no joke. He stated: If I can help at all, please let me know. Underneath my clown suit is still one of the most experienced cybersecurity experts on the planet. Ive been doing it for 51 years. I am at your service. Okay, so maybe not entirely self-deprecating. But its McAfee. Well take what we can get. .@cz_binance if I can help at all please let me know. Underneath my clown suit is still one of the most experienced cybersecurity experts on the planet. I've been doing it for 51 years. I am at your service. John McAfee (@officialmcafee) May 8, 2019 John McAfees offer was good enough for CZ, who responded to the cybersecurity expert with a tweet displaying handshake emojis: Would love to pick your brain about it. Will DM you and arrange a time. CZ Binance (@cz_binance) May 8, 2019 McAfee is a cybersecurity pioneer who founded the McAfee antivirus software company in the eighties. He later sold it for billions of dollars and has since distanced himself from the brand bearing his name. Most recently hes been on the run from the IRS for alleged tax evasion and also from Belize authorities for being a person of interest in a murder. Read the full story on CCN.com. The Senate Intelligence Committee on Wednesday subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr. regarding statements he made to Congress in 2017 about a plan to build a Trump Tower building in Moscow. The presidents eldest son told the Senate Judiciary Committee in September, 2017 that he was only peripherally aware of the ultimately scrapped plans to construct the building in Russia. In February, however, President Trumps former personal lawyer Michael Cohen testified to a House committee that he had briefed Trump Jr. about the project about ten times. The Republican-led intelligence committee seeks Trump Jr.s testimony, the first known subpoena of one of the presidents children, as part of its two-year investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. The president said last month that his administration will be fighting all the subpoenas from Congress after special counsel Robert Muellers final report was released. Trump Jr.s meeting in June, 2016 at New Yorks Trump Tower with a Russian lawyer who promised damaging information on Hillary Clinton became a focal point in the Russia investigation. His brother-in-law, Jared Kushner, and Trump campaign chief Paul Manafort were in the meeting as well The presidents son claimed to Congress that he did not tell his father about the meeting. Cohen contradicted him on that point as well, saying he recalled being present when Trump Jr. informed the elder Trump that they were planning a meeting to collect damaging information on his opponent. House Democrats, meanwhile, have issued dozens of requests for documents and testimony from Trump associates since the release of the Mueller report last month. The White House on Tuesday directed former White House counsel Don McGahn to ignore a House Judiciary Committee subpoena for more information relating to McGahns statements to Mueller that Trump directed him to have the special counsel fired. More from National Review Here are todays top headlines. US trade officials say Trumps tariff threat is real The top US trade negotiator said Monday that the Trump administration will be moving forward on President Donald Trumps threat to escalate tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods effective Friday. Met Gala 2019: See all the red carpet looks The Met Galas red carpet is known for delivering some of the most daring fashion statements of the year. The charity benefit, which costs upwards of $30,000 a head to attend, has a rich history of attracting risque outfits. Royal baby name: What will it be? Meghan and Harry will undoubtedly have been considering baby names for some time and may have already decided on their favorites. Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar released after more than 500 days Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar under the countrys Official Secrets Act for reporting on a massacre of Rohingya civilians have been freed after more than 500 days. China denies having concentration camps, tells US to stop interfering Beijing has rejected US accusations of operating concentration camps in the western Chinese region of Xinjiang, with a government spokesman telling Washington Monday to stop interfering in Chinese domestic affairs. French telecom company and former CEO face trial over wave of suicides French telecom company Orange and its former chief executive have gone on trial in Paris, accused of pursuing a strategy to destabilize employees that resulted in a wave of suicides a decade ago. Someone left a coffee cup in a Game of Thrones shot Game of Thrones viewers spotted something out of place in Sunday nights season eight, episode four a modern coffee cup left on a table in the great hall of Winterfell in the realm of Westeros. Amy Schumer welcomes son Say hello to Amy Schumers own royal baby. Erdogan defends re-run of Istanbul election Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says there was illegality in Istanbuls local elections, after the countrys electoral body ordered them to be re-held. We sincerely believe there is organised corruption and complete illegality, he said on Tuesday. The decision to re-run last months vote, which returned a slim win for the opposition, sparked protests on Monday. Niger fuel tanker blast kills dozens A fuel tanker lorry has overturned and exploded near the airport in Nigers capital, Niamey, killing at least 58 people, authorities say. Many of the victims had gathered to collect fuel after the vehicle overturned close to railway tracks as it tried to park. Another 37 people were injured in the explosion late on Sunday evening. Congratulations pour in after royal birth Congratulations have poured in from around the world following the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs son. The newborn was delivered at 05:26 BST on Monday, with Prince Harry saying the baby boy was absolutely to die for. The Palace said the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and the Prince of Wales were all delighted with the news. Taipeis tasty House of Stink I was about to cross the road in Taipeis upscale Xinyi District when a pungent and rotten stench smacked me in the face. Thats how I knew I was getting close to Dais House of Stinky Tofu, one of the Taiwanese capitals most popular and putrid-smelling restaurants. When articles scream Spoiler alert!, I click Fans of TV dramas from Game of Thrones to Killing Eve are desperate to be kept in the dark about plot twists. But what about those who not only dont mind spoilers, they actively seek them out? Here, three spoiler-lovers explain why they do it. Instagram to demote posts based on fact-checking like Facebook Days after Facebook and Instagram banned a litany of prominent far-right voices, it looks like the latter of the two apps is stepping up its anti-fake news efforts. Instagram will start using a similar fact-checking process as Facebook to demote posts that spread bad information, rather than remove them entirely. Sonic the Hedgehog director promises design changes after fan backlash After Paramount Pictures released the first trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog and got backlash from fans, director Jeff Fowler is promising changes. Its not just you. Gmails having problems. Go ahead, ignore all those high-priority emails. You have a legit excuse: Gmail is acting up. The Google-provided email service has been a bit finicky, with reports of unspecified service disruptions affecting users in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City. No one was the MVP on Game of Thrones. Literally no one. WTF. Game of Thrones is bad, actually? What other explanation is there for Season 8s fourth episode? It confusingly bears the title The Last of the Starks even though the A-plots, such as they were, focused very little on Winterfells children. Even if were still calling Jon a Stark a generous designation at this point the title fails. How Game of Thrones forgot how to write a real twist Game of Thrones Season 8 Episode 4 had all the hallmarks of classic Thrones secrets revealed, a shocking twist, the death of a major character but unlike the shows previous success in delivering big moments, all of them fell flat in The Last of the Starks. In Fortnite, a volcano erupted and a whole city was wiped out Yet another new era for Fortnite has begun. A weeks-long, community-wide scavenger hunt concluded on Saturday at roughly 3:00 p.m. ET with a giant bang. The smoking volcano situated in the northeast corner of the map erupted, and flying debris laid waste to a number of popular locations, including the city of Tilted Towers and the Retail Row shopping district. MOSCOW, May 8 (Reuters) - Seven Russian tourists on a hiking holiday in Siberia are feared dead after an avalanche on a ridge in the Altai region, the local emergencies ministry said on Wednesday, saying rescue workers were still looking for the missing walkers. The avalanche happened on Monday, but came to light only on Wednesday when two survivors from the same group reached the nearby settlement of Kosh-Agach and were able to radio in for help, the TASS news agency cited emergency services as saying. Two rescue helicopters have been deployed to find the missing tourists, the emergencies ministry said. The group of nine people was visiting Altai from the Russian city of Novosibirsk. (Reporting by Tom Balmforth; editing by Andrew Osborn) In this edition: a quartet of French eateries are headed to Union Square, Hayes Valley gets another dessert spot, a SoMa hotel adds a coffee shop and a Civic Center hotel launches afternoon tea. Openings Union Square ONE65 (165 O'Farrell St.) Photo: ONE65 San Francisco/Facebook Good news for fans of French cuisine: a massive Gallic culinary complex is on its way to Union Square. ONE65 is helmed by Claude Le Tohic, who earned three Michelin stars and a James Beard Award for his cooking at Joel Robuchon at the MGM Grand Las Vegas. Sprawling across six floors and more than 25,000 square feet, ONE65 (named for its address on O'Farrell Street) will feature four different eateries: a patisserie with breakfast and lunch options, a French-Californian bistro, a cocktail and wine bar with bites, and a fine-dining restaurant. The patisserie will be the first of the bunch to open, with a debut set for next Thursday, May 16. Occupying the building's first two floors, it will offer housemade pastries and breads, ice cream and chocolates, with both dine-in and to-go options for breakfast and lunch. On May 24, the bistro and lounge will make their debuts on the building's middle floors, followed on June 6 by the top-floor debut of fine-dining restaurant O, which will offer modern French cuisine "inspired by the elements of water, fire, and earth." Hayes Valley Na Ya Dessert Cafe (535 Octavia St.) Photo: Natalie D./Hoodline Tipline Hoodline tipster Natalie D. alerted us that the Inner Richmond's Na Ya Dessert Cafe is expanding to Hayes Valley. It'll be taking over the former Loving Cup location, which unexpectedly shuttered in March after five years on Octavia Street. Na Ya, whose original location is at 5338 Geary Blvd., specializes in Asian-inspired desserts like bingsoo (shaved ice), mango sticky rice crepes and matcha pancakes with ice cream. It also serves some savory snacks, like noodles and marinated pork skewers, but it's unclear if those will be available at the new location. Story continues According to public records, no permit applications for the new Hayes Valley venture have been filed with the city so far. We reached out to Na Ya's owners to get more information on when it might open, but didn't receive a response. SoMa Funny Library (250 4th St.) Photo: Funny Library Coffee Shop SoMa's new Virgin Hotel, which has already launched a restaurant and rooftop bar, has debuted the final piece of its culinary puzzle: a coffee shop called Funny Library. Like the other eateries in the hotel, it's open to the general public, not just guests. A grab-and-go spot with a communal work area, Funny Library features beans from Laughing Man, a fair-trade coffee brand co-founded by Hugh Jackman, and pastries and bread from Craftsman and Wolves and Firebrand. A portion of coffee sales will support the Laughing Man Foundation, whose mission is to support coffee farming communities with access to higher education and housing improvement. Additions Civic Center Afternoon tea at the Proper Hotel (1100 Market St.) Photo: Alina Tyulyu In keeping with its name, Civic Center's Proper Hotel is now offering a properly English-style afternoon tea, available every day from 2-5 p.m. in its lobby lounge. At $39 per person, the tea service includes an assortment of tea sandwiches and pastries prepared by executive chef Mikey Adams. Sandwich fillings include deviled egg salad, turkey and avocado and cashew butter, banana and Nutella. As for pastries, there's a sourdough English muffin or a cream tea scone with blueberries and orange zest. Thanks to tipster Natalie D.! If you've seen something new (or something newly closed) in the neighborhood, text your tips and photos to (415) 200-3233, or email tips@hoodline.com. If we use your info in a story, we'll give you credit. Three of Robert F Kennedy Jr.s family members are publicly condemning his outspoken anti-vaccine views in an op-ed that calls his beliefs as tragically wrong and dangerous. We love Bobby, they wrote in the column published by Politico on Wednesday. However, on vaccines he is wrong. ... On this issue, Bobby is an outlier in the Kennedy family. He has helped to spread dangerous misinformation over social media and is complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines. Those who delay or refuse vaccinations, or encourage others to do so, put themselves and others, especially children, at risk. The op-ed is credited to Kennedys sister Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, former lieutenant governor of Maryland (D) and former chair of the Global Virus Network; a brother, former Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy II (D-Mass.); and a niece, Maeve Kennedy McKean, executive director of Georgetown Universitys Global Health Initiatives. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been an outspoken critic of vaccines. His family on Wednesday slammed him as "complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines." (ANGELA WEISS via Getty Images) RFK Jr., a prominent environmental lawyer whos the son of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, has accused pharmacy companies of intentionally trying to sicken children through vaccines so they can reap profits from their long-term health care needs. (Kennedy posted articles that made similar claims on HuffPosts contributor platform prior to its closure in 2018.) In a statement to HuffPost on Wednesday, Robert Kennedy Jr. said he is not anti-vaccine but that he wants safe vaccines with robust testing. I dont think we should be forcing pharmaceutical products on unwilling Americans without understanding the downside risks, he said while echoing his familys expressed love. I love my family. The Kennedys have a long and continuing history of involvement with the public health agencies. It is very difficult for any of us to accept that any of those officials would be less than candid about vaccine risks, he said. Last week in Texas, Kennedy told vaccine activists, Theyre trying to get at your baby, according to Texas Monthly. He reportedly was invited to the conference by the anti-vaccine organization Texans for Vaccine Choice. Story continues The thing that cured measles was nutrition and clean water, not the vaccine, Kennedy reportedly said. He blamed vaccines for asthma, sudden infant death syndrome, encephalopathy, Bells palsy and autism, among other ailments. Federal health officials have been urging vaccinations amid a measles outbreak that has sickened at least 764 people this year the most since measles was declared eliminated in 2000. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has blamed unvaccinated communities and misinformation for allowing the disease to spread. President John F. Kennedy, RFK Jr.s uncle, urged Americans to be vaccinated for polio in the early 1960s, the op-ed noted. JFK also signed the Vaccination Assistance Act in 1962, which allowed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to support mass immunization campaigns, and signed an executive order to create the U.S. Agency for International Development, which supports vaccine campaigns in developing countries. There is no longer any reason why American children should suffer from polio, diphtheria, whooping cough, or tetanus, President Kennedy told Congress in 1962. I am asking the American people to join in a nationwide vaccination program to stamp out these four diseases. Robert Kennedy Jr.s father also supported vaccinations. Everyone must communicate the benefits and safety of vaccines, and advocate for the respect and confidence of the institutions which make them possible, the op-ed concluded. To do otherwise risks even further erosion of one of public healths greatest achievements. This article has been updated with a response from Robert Kennedy Jr. The number of asylum-seeking Central American families crossing the southern border broke another record in April, with Border Patrol agents apprehending 58,474 members of family units during the month, an all-time high, according to data released Wednesday. The flood of migrants has overwhelmed Border Patrol stations and other federal facilities, forcing immigration agents to release migrants directly into U.S. border communities with only the hope that they'll appear for their immigration court hearings, the head of the Border Patrol said during a congressional hearing on Wednesday. Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost said she has reassigned hundreds of agents to process and started building temporary tent cities to house the flood of migrants. But she told members of the Senate that such temporary fixes aren't enough. They need to overhaul immigration laws and provide additional funding to her agency, she said, or risk losing control of the southern border. "We cannot address this crisis by simply shifting more resources or building more facilities," she said. "It's like holding a bucket under a faucet: it doesn't matter how many buckets you give me if we can't turn off the flow." Central American migrants are detained by U.S. Border Patrol agents at the border wall near Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on May 7, 2019. President Donald Trump has tried all kinds of measures to stop the flow of Central Americans. He has deployed National Guardsmen and active-duty military troops to lay razor wire and back up Border Patrol agents. His Department of Justice has tried to cut off or limit asylum for certain groups, efforts that have been blocked by federal judges. His Department of Homeland Security has implemented a policy forcing Central American asylum-seekers to return to Mexico after they've submitted their asylum claim. Yet still, the number of people crossing the border continues to climb. Overall, Border Patrol agents took 109,144 migrants into custody after presenting themselves at ports of entry or illegally crossing the border. That is the highest monthly total since 2007, and represents the second straight month where more than 100,000 migrants are taken into custody by Border Patrol. Want to read more? Download the USA TODAY app This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Southern border crossings by asylum-seeking migrants kept rising in April, set new record The Rooster Card will be a Visa pre-paid card. Photo: Martin Keene/PA Archive/PA Images Pocket money app RoosterMoney is launching a new debit card for children, the company announced Wednesday. The Rooster Card, a Visa pre-paid card launched in partnership with Corner Card UK, will be a premium feature within the app. Parents will be able to decide when their kids are ready to graduate from tracking their allowance in the app to using the Rooster Card to manage money in the real world. READ MORE: Should you pay your kids for chores? The card will come with flexible parental controls, including the options to freeze spending and limit use to specific stores, websites, or ATMs. It will also feature new CVV technology, in order to make the Rooster Card more secure for online transactions. The three-digit security code will only be accessible in the app, and will change after every purchase. There will be no overdrafts, so there is no risk of kids overspending, RoosterMoney said. READ MORE: Heres how much the typical kid banks in allowance Since launching in 2016, RoosterMoney has grown to a platform with over 50 currencies, and tripled its userbase in the last 18 months to over 600,000 users. The companys said its mission is to transform the way the world talks about money with their children. We believe the best lessons are learned by doing, RoosterMoney said. [The app] encourages families to learn together so parents can actively educate, motivate, and empower their kids financially giving everybody the reassurance that theyre fully prepared for the future. READ MORE: These young entrepreneurs save 42% of what they earn The Rooster Card is currently being made available to families for testing, before a full release in June. The waitlist for the service launched on Wednesday. Were delighted to be able to offer families our unique Rooster Card, which is a natural progression for the kids who have learned the basics with our tracking tool. A bridge between the tracker and a bank account, we are helping parents to empower their kids to make considered spending choices on their own, both online and in store, RoosterMoney CEO Will Carmichael said. It was important to us that we built a secure product, utilising cutting-edge security technology, and Im proud to say we now have a leading offer for families with kids of any age. Kids can start as young as four using the app as a star or reward chart, before graduating to a pocket money tracker and then, ultimately, the Rooster Card whenever the parents and kids are ready. A friend of the Kenya Methodist University (KEMU) student who was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend has revealed the possible reason behind the suspected murder-suicide. 21-year-old Ann Kanario was on Monday found dead inside her rented house located a few meters from KEMU main campus in Meru County. Her decomposing body was found alongside that of her supposed boyfriend, Chuka University student Obed Nyaga Njagi. According to Ms Kanarios close friend, unrequited love could be one of the possible reasons why Nyaga killed Ann before hanging himself in the bathroom. The informer who spoke to a local tabloid on condition of anonymity said Ann ended her relationship with Obed Nyaga a few months ago. Ann dated Njagi, a resident of Runyenjes, for quite some time in the past. However, things did not work out between them, prompting their break up a few months ago, the friend was quoted by eDaily. When they were dating, Ann introduced the man to me. He would often visit us at KEMU. They had stopped communicating, and when news broke that Anns body was found alongside his in her rented house, I was shocked. I couldnt imagine he would kill her, then take his own life. When they were dating, he portrayed elements of jealousy, and most likely he couldnt stomach the fact that Ann had moved on from him, added the friend. It is suspected that Nyaga visited Ann as she prepared to relocate to Nairobi, and attempted to convince her to get back together. The last time Ann Kanario was spotted by neighbors was on Thursday as she went to buy vegetables at a nearby grocery. It is on the same day that she had returned to her rented hostel from her parents home in Kangeta. Anns naked body was found lying in a pool of blood, with a stab wound on her thigh. Her neck had scratches indicating she was strangled. Njagis body also had a deep stab wound on the left thigh. Kanario had just completed her undergraduate studies in Business Administration and was on her last semester. While Njagi was a Third Year Bachelor of Arts (Criminology and Security Studies). HOUSTON (AP) It was a scene that has repeated itself countless times in the Houston area: heavy rainfall made area roadways impassable and flooded homes, schools and businesses. On Wednesday, the Houston area was drying out after severe thunderstorms a day earlier caused flash flooding , inundating streets and stranding students at some schools. A break in the weather was expected to be short-lived as more rainfall was predicted over the next few days. Meanwhile, heavy rain elsewhere in the state caused flash flooding in numerous parts of northern, central and western Texas, causing one death in Austin. The rainfall was nowhere near what the area experienced during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which flooded more than 150,000 homes in the Houston area and caused an estimated $125 billion in damage in Texas. But it represents what is becoming the new normal for Houston and surrounding communities, according to a local expert on flooding. "We're going to have to learn to live with flooding in Houston and we haven't quite accepted that reality yet," said Jim Blackburn, co-director of the Severe Storm Prediction, Education, and Evacuation from Disasters Center at Rice University in Houston. There are various reasons why Houston repeatedly floods: The city barely rises above sea level; it has insufficient infrastructure, including drainage; and it's experienced rapid development over the years that has drastically reduced wetlands that could soak up stormwater runoff. Students in the school districts in Cleveland and New Caney, northeast of Houston, were forced to spend at least part of Tuesday night at their campuses after flooded roads prevented buses from leaving and parents from reaching their children. About 60 students at an elementary school in Cleveland spent the night there. In Kingwood, a suburb north of Houston, almost 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain fell, causing almost every street there to be under water for several hours, said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. Story continues "We're going to be in an unsettled weather pattern between now into Saturday and Sunday. We are watching the situation very, very carefully," Turner said. Neighboring Fort Bend County issued a disaster declaration after receiving up to 11 inches (28 centimeters) of rain, said County Judge KP George, the county's top administrator. In Sugar Land, a Houston suburb in Fort Bend County, up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) of rain fell, flooding all major roadways and resulting in more than 100 abandoned vehicles, said city spokesman Doug Adolph. Most of the street flooding had cleared on Wednesday. "It was pretty bad. It was raining nonstop, thunder and lightning and people were stuck on the side of the road. So, it wasn't fun. I swam home last night," said Matthew Graver, who lives in Richmond in Fort Bend County. Blackburn said the rain overwhelmed local drainage systems, many of which need major improvements. Houston's storm drain and pipe system is minimal compared with that of other cities and at most can take 1 1/2 inches (3.8 centimeters) of rain. Houston's streets serve as secondary drainage systems, and most will fill with water during intense rainfall, Blackburn said. He also said some storms hitting the area are becoming "more and more severe and they tend to linger over multiple days and that's becoming a scary pattern and perhaps is related to our changing climate." Scientists say climate change is responsible for more intense and more frequent extreme weather such as storms, droughts, floods and fires, but without extensive study they cannot directly link a single weather event to the changing climate. After Harvey, Houston-area voters approved a $2.5 billion bond program for a variety of flood control projects, more than 130 of which are already under construction. "We need to spend the bond money and get those improvements made," Blackburn said. Elsewhere in the state, the body of a man was recovered Wednesday afternoon from Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin about a half-hour after a man was reported to have been swept away from a flooded street. In the West Texas town of Merkel, about 15 miles (25 kilometers) west of Abilene, Police Chief Phillip Conklin told KTXS-TV of Abilene that seven people were rescued Wednesday from floodwaters. Three were rescued from an apartment complex, two from flood-stranded vehicles and a couple from their home. Flash floodwaters washed out a Texas Pacifico Transportation railroad track near Mertzon, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) southwest of San Angelo in West Texas. Thunderstorms in the Panhandle prompted scattered reports to the National Weather Services of funnel clouds, but no tornadoes were reported. ___ Associated Press journalists John L. Mone in Richmond, Texas, and David Warren and Terry Wallace in Dallas contributed to this report. ___ Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter: https://twitter.com/juanlozano70 Khartoum (AFP) - Sudanese protest leaders on Wednesday threatened to launch a nationwide campaign of civil disobedience after accusing the country's military rulers of delaying the transfer of power to a civilian administration. Thousands of people remain camped outside the military headquarters in Khartoum nearly four weeks after the armed forces toppled autocratic president Omar al-Bashir as demanded by a months-long protest movement. The two sides are grappling over whether an overall ruling council that would replace the existing army council -- made up solely of generals -- should have a civilian or military majority. Last week the Alliance for Freedom and Change protest group handed over its proposals for a civilian structure, including executive and legislative bodies, that it eventually wants to rule Sudan after replacing the generals. The 10-member military council late on Tuesday said it agreed to the overall proposals, but had "many reservations". The protest leaders said on Wednesday that the military council was delaying the entire transfer of power. "The military council's response to the proposals of the Alliance for Freedom and Change was disappointing and risked putting the country in jeopardy," protest leader Khalid Omar Yousef told reporters. Responding to a journalist's question on what steps demonstrators would take after the army expressed reservations, Yousef threatened "escalatory measures". "The measures of escalation for us are defined -- they are continuing with the sit-in, and we are now preparing for a civil disobedience" campaign across the country, he said. - 'Kidnap the revolution' - US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan pressed Sudan's army ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to reach for an agreement with protesters. In a telephone call with Burhan on Wednesday, he backed "the Sudanese people's aspirations for a free, democratic and prosperous future," the State Department said. Story continues Sullivan encouraged Burhan to "move expeditiously toward a civilian-led interim government" and to reach an agreement with the Alliance for Freedom and Change protest group But the alliance expressed concerns about the military dragging the process out. "The military council's response... is moving in the direction of extending the negotiations and not in the direction of a transition" of power, it said in a statement. On Tuesday the military council said the alliance had remained silent on its proposals on ensuring that Islamic sharia remains the bedrock of Sudanese legislation. The protest leaders said the generals "raised irrelevant issues including the language and sources of legislation in a tedious repetition of the biddings of the former regime". "We call on the military council to reach an agreement to transfer power," they said in the statement. The Alliance for Freedom and Change is made up of political groups, leaders and activists, several of them who want to build a new secular Sudan. Sudanese media and websites have often reported that for the protest leaders the issue of legislation and Islamic law is something that can be discussed later, but they first want a civilian body established in order to govern the country. The protest movement said the miliary council is acting in a way that seems to "kidnap the revolution and control its outcome". - Election in six months - The military council said Tuesday that if the deadlock with protest leaders is not broken then it has the option of calling for elections in six months. "It's an attempt to legitimise the regime," protest leader Madani Abbas Madani told reporters, indicating that such an election could see the return of previous regime figures. Thousands of protesters have been encamped outside the sprawling military headquarters in central Khartoum since April 6. Initially they gathered there to seek the army's support in ousting Bashir. But now they continue to hold their sit-in against the military council, demanding that it step down and transfer power to a civilian authority. The council and protest leaders have differed on several issues and not just the composition of an overall ruling council. The military council wanted a two-year transition period as opposed to four years proposed by protest leaders. The council was also of the opinion that declarations of emergencies should be in the hands of a "sovereign" authority rather than the cabinet as sought by protest leaders. Protest leaders however insist their key demand remains the same -- a full transfer of power to civilians. "The solution and success of the revolution lies on transfer of power to a full civilian authority," protest leader Mohamed Naji al-Assam said on Tuesday. STOCKHOLM, May 8 (Reuters) - Russia has expelled two Swedish diplomats in response to earlier Swedish actions against Russian officials, the Swedish Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday. "Sweden has previously made the decision that one Russian diplomat would not have his visa renewed and following that, we have declined Russian applications for diplomatic visas," a foreign ministry spokeswoman said. ."..Russia has answered by asking two Swedish diplomats to leave Russia." (Reporting by Simon Johnson; editing by John Stonestreet) By Marina Depetris SAINT-URSANNE, Switzerland (Reuters) - Swiss scientists are injecting carbon dioxide into rock deep inside a mountain to discover if the gas leaks out or if it can be locked away to stop it contributing to climate change. Inside Mont Terri in the Jura Mountains, a layer of impermeable clay could potentially trap carbon dioxide, the main greenhouse gas causing global warming. At a laboratory deep inside the mountain, scientists have begun pumping carbon dioxide dissolved in salt water into the rock. They will see if the gas will interact with the clay and whether a faultline will allow it to seep out. The first eight-month phase of the experiment involves a tiny volume of carbon dioxide (CO2), with 500mg of carbon dioxide pumped into the rock through a borehole. "If this rock has a fault in it, is it possible that the CO2 comes up through the fault. This is what we want to answer," said chief investigator Alba Zappone, a researcher at Zurich's ETH University. Geological storage of CO2 already exists, but existing sites are usually in uninhabited places, such as the Algerian desert or under the Norwegian North Sea, said Christophe Nussbaum, the Mont Terri project manager. "What is new here is that, if one day we want to stock CO2 in Switzerland, which is a densely populated region, we need to make sure that the CO2 won't migrate into the surface and contaminate, for instance, drinking water sources. This is really one of the major stakes here," Nussbaum said. Swiss citizens produce an average of about 5.8 tonnes of CO2 annually, he said. The project is supported by Switzerland, France, Canada, Japan and the United States, as well as energy firms Total, Chevron, ENI and BP. But environmental organisations like Greenpeace are worried that the project's findings could turn into a "right to pollute" and detract from efforts to reduce emissions, which are driving a disastrous rise in global temperatures. "What worries us is not only that these technologies are being developed, but to see that in the meantime the necessary efforts needed to limit greenhouse gas emissions are not being made," said Mathias Schlegel, spokesman for Greenpeace Switzerland. (Reporting by Marina Depetris, writing by Tom Miles, Editing by Angus MacSwan) By Manoj Kumar NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Taiwan will strengthen ties with India's new government, including more official visits, a top official of the self-ruled island said on Wednesday, despite China's continuing efforts to isolate what it considers to be a wayward province. Taiwan, an island 110 miles (177 km) off the Chinese mainland, is trying to reduce its reliance on Beijing, which maintains that it does not qualify for formal diplomatic ties with any country. Beijing does not generally object to other countries maintaining trade and economic ties with Taiwan, however. After India's general election results on May 23, the two countries will strengthen trade and cultural ties, Chung Kwang Tien, the representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in India, told Reuters on Wednesday. The centre in the Indian capital operates as a de facto embassy, helping Indian and Taiwanese companies to expand business ties and easing discreet dialogue between government officials. "Our relations are pretty good. One of our projects (is) to promote visits of high-ranking officials," Tien said in an interview. That policy could further test New Delhi's relationship with Beijing, which protested against the 2017 visit of a three-member Taiwan parliamentary delegation to India. India and China had a tense military standoff in 2017 over a contested border region, while India's large deficit with its northern neighbour has also strained relations. Tien said India ranked among the highest priorities in Taiwan's new southbound policy that focuses on strengthening ties in the areas of culture, tourism, education and trade with 18 southeast and south Asian countries. "Even without a diplomatic relationship, our substantial relations are very strong, stronger than with some countries with whom we have formal relations," he added. About 100 Taiwan companies in the electronics, artificial intelligence, healthcare and food processing industries will participate in a trading exhibition, the second Taiwan Expo, set to be held in New Delhi next week, he said. Story continues Taiwan has opened four trade offices in India in the last few years and two-way trade has risen more than six-fold since 2000 to stand at more than $7 billion in 2018. Investment by Taiwanese companies touched nearly $1.5 billion, mainly in the electronics and other manufacturing sectors. Taiwan has also sought India's help in its bid to join the World Health Organisation, he said. Taiwan has set up 14 language centres in Indian universities and other educational institutions to promote the Chinese language, training about 6,000 students, and awarding scholarships. (Reporting by Manoj Kumar; Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in BEIJING; Editing by Alasdair Pal and Clarence Fernandez) Owning a pet increases human interaction and combats the increasing health concerns around loneliness, prompting some researchers Tuesday to suggest the government should do more to encourage it. Researchers released new data Tuesday that show about 40% of people support a government push to increase interaction with pets. The research was presented at the first Summit on Social Isolation and Companion Animals by Mars Petcare and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute. Mars Petcare even gives consumers tips on how to convince government officials to make their cities more pet friendly. Loneliness is as dangerous to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to one researcher. That makes it a health concern on par with obesity. Nancy Gee, human-animal interaction research manager at Mars' Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, says showing other people pictures of your pet and even talking to that cat or dog are both typical and healthy behaviors. "When we think about loneliness, we need attachment figures and pets meet that need," says Gee. "You dont have to worry about confidentiality or judgement. It just is what it is." Former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who spoke at the conference, would sometimes get teased by staff members when he posted pictures on social media of his cats. But those homeless cats his family took in were near and dear to them, he said. In April 2017, his official Surgeon General Instagram account on National Pet Day included one of his cats in a kitchen drawer and said his three cats were named Laddu, Mouli and Surya. "The greatest gift of animals is they remind us we can love and be loved unconditionally," says Murthy, who spoke at the Tuesday conference. Since leaving office in 2017, Murthy has focused on what he says is the public health problem of loneliness, He has a book coming out next April on the topic. The caricature of reclusive hoarders and pets wasn't borne out in the online survey of 2,036 people, which included 1,469 pet owners for HABRI and Mars Petcare. Story continues Among the findings: More than half (54%) of respondents say their pet helps them connect with other people. And 51% said their pets make them "feel less shy." About one in four pet owners said they got a pet because they know it is good for mental health. More than half of people 55 and over got their pet for that reason. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of those surveyed believe nursing homes and assisted-living facilities have a degree of responsibility to foster pet interaction. Murthy says it still remains to be seen whether pets literally make people healthier or if healthier people are more likely to own pets. It's "worth investing in the research" to better understand how interaction and ownership affect health. Teens aren't socializing in the real world. And that's making them super lonely Young Americans are the loneliest, surprising study from Cigna shows "You may not have to own a pet to gain benefits," says Murthy. "Whats important to think about is how to make interaction easier.." Kelly Schulte of Highland Park, Texas isn't surprised by the findings. Her dogs are "never mad or bitter," and really curb her anxiety, says Schulte. Her small rescue dog, Karma, helped her get over a recent surgery and follows her around like, well, "a puppy dog." "My dog is always there for me and brightens my day," says Schulte. "I never feel lonely at home because she is always by my side. Before I got her, I felt lonely a lot." So do the pets. Murthy notes that all the stray animals also "need care, companionship and human beings in their life." "We need to do a better job matchmaking," he says. If you are interested in connecting with people online who have overcome or are struggling with issues mentioned in this story, join USA TODAYs "I Survived It" Facebook support group. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Talking to your pet is not so wacky after all. It's actually good for you - and your health Overwatch Imagings real-time fire perimeter mapping increases safety. (Overwatch Image) Overwatch Imaging, an Oregon venture that specializes in airborne imaging systems, says it has won a multimillion-dollar investment from Tenax Aerospace, which focuses on aviation solutions that are specialized to suit the needs of its clients in government and the commercial sector. The Series A funding deal, announced today, builds on an existing partnership between Overwatch and Tenax, a privately held company thats based in Mississippi. It marks the first outside investment taken in by Overwatch, which was founded in 2016. Overwatch CEO and co-founder Greg Davis said the size of the investment amounts to millions of dollars, but he declined to be more precise. The money will go toward expanding Overwatchs production operations into a larger facility in Hood River, Ore., and accelerating development of the companys AI software for autonomous imagery collection and analysis. In a news release, Tenax Aerospaces president, Taran Bakker, called Overwatch an emerging leader in artificial intelligence and autonomy in airborne imaging. Overwatch Imaging has developed an exciting new technology that will be very valuable to customers with special missions involving surveillance, mapping or threat detection, Bakker said. Overwatch Imagings real-time colored thermal imagery of large areas helps emergency responders immediately understand the scene. (Overwatch Photo) Tenax Aerospace provides special mission aircraft and related services to customers including the Federal Aviation Administration and the departments of Defense, Justice; Agriculture and Homeland Security. The company focuses on applications that are critical to national security and the public interest, including aerial fire suppression, aerial intelligence gathering and airborne data acquisition. Tenax and Overwatch are already working together on a U.S. Forest Service project related to monitoring and fighting forest fires. That project involves the use of Overwatchs imaging system on Tenaxs aircraft. Future projects could focus on applications such as border surveillance and maritime traffic monitoring. Story continues Davis said Tenax Aerospace emerged as the ideal partner for Overwatch Imagings expansion campaign during a six-month process to assess potential investors. As a result of that process, Tenax will be contributing more than money: Bakker will be joining Davis and co-founder Nick Anderson on Overwatchs board. We immediately shared a common vision for the future, said Davis, whos a veteran of Boeings Insitu drone subsidiary. I am excited to have Tarans expertise and enthusiasm on our board as we grow. More from GeekWire: NASHVILLE, Tenn. The Tennessee House speaker's chief of staff has resigned in light of reports that the top aide solicited sex in text messages to interns and lobbyists and used illegal drugs in the legislative office building. Cade Cothren, 32, confirmed his resignation Monday evening. "I think it was just a distraction," Cothren told the USA TODAY Network-Tennessee in an interview. Cothren's resignation came hours after the USA TODAY Network-Tennessee published a story that showed he asked one intern in 2015 for oral sex and nude photos. He also suggested in 2014 texts that he would continue "hitting on" another intern, and made sexual advances to a lobbyist in 2016. Cothren subsequently released a statement. "Republicans in the House and Senate accomplished a plethora of great things this year," he said. "We have a hell of a leadership team in both chambers and in the governor's office, and I couldn't be more proud to have worked with them in 2019." Cothren said he believed the "best thing for (him) to do is step down" so Tennessee Republicans could stay focused on their work. House Speaker Glen Casada, R-Franklin, second from right, talks with Rep. Matthew Hill, R-Jonesborough, left; Rep. Michael Curcio, R-Dickson, second from left; and Cade Cothren, chief of staff for Speaker Casada, right; during a Senate session Thursday, May 2, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) After Cothren's resignation, House Speaker Glen Casada, House Majority Leader William Lamberth and House GOP caucus chairman Cameron Sexton all issued a statement. Casada thanked Cothren for his service to the General Assembly. Lamberth said he was "shocked and disappointed" to learn of the allegations involving Cothren. "These allegations are grave and serious; I do not condone these actions and they will not be tolerated," said Lamberth. Sexton said the "unforeseen circumstances" were "unfortunate" and that Cothren made the right decision. "This has been an extremely difficult time for all involved," he said. "I appreciate Cade putting Tennessee's interests first." Cothren, a longtime staffer for Casada, was named chief of staff in January and earned a salary of $199,800, the third highest for a legislative employee. Story continues He also faced scrutiny over racist text messages first reported on last week by WTVF-TV in Nashville. After that story, Casada defended Cothren, who he noted worked for him for 10 years. Even after Monday's reports of Cothren's past drug use and sexual text messages, Casada maintained his support for the embattled staffer. According to copies of text messages obtained by the USA TODAY Network - Tennessee, Casada, who was married at the time, participated in Cothrens sexually charged comments toward women. In texts sent during April 2015, Cothren solicited oral sex on one occasion and nude photos another time from an intern. He also asked her whether she was wearing underwear and attempted to pivot the topic of a conversation to orgasms. In multiple interviews on Monday, Casada reiterated that he would continue standing by Cothren and would not terminate or demote him as a result of the allegations. He emphasized that Cothren had proved himself to be a changed man. But Casada did say that had he been aware of Cothren's sexual advances toward interns at the time, he would have fired him. "He would have been let go, Casada said. If I had known that he was interacting with interns in that manner, I probably would have sent him to rehabilitation. A spokeswoman for Gov. Bill Lee on Monday said Lee would not be commenting on the matter. Follow Natalie Allison on Twitter: @natalie_allison. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee House speaker's chief of staff resigns amid sexually explicit texts scandal NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) Tennessee's House speaker pushed back Wednesday against calls to abandon his top legislative leadership post from Democratic and Republican lawmakers, releasing a plan intended to restore trust in his office. House Speaker Glen Casada has faced increased scrutiny after his top aide, Cade Cothren, stepped down earlier this week amid allegations he sent racist and sexually explicit text messages. Cothren also acknowledged using cocaine in his legislative office several years ago. As pressure built, a handful of Republican members expressed outrage at the speaker's handling of the allegations against Cothren, and added they were uneasy over his admitted participation in the text messages with him. As of Wednesday, four GOP House members and one GOP Senate member had joined Democratic support of calls for Casada to resign as speaker. However, Casada rebuffed those calls and instead organized an emergency conference call with the GOP House caucus to quell concerns. "I take complete ownership over the text messages with inappropriate comments about women that I exchanged with my former chief of staff and another individual several years ago," said Casada in a statement shortly after the call adjourned. "It's embarrassing and humbling to have it displayed in this manner." Along with the lengthy statement, Casada released a four-point plan for regaining trust. It included asking the House Ethics Committee to review the termination of Cothren, as well as conducting a review of legislative policies and consideration of drug testing for new employees. Casada also said he asked the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the District Attorney Generals Conference about Cothren possibly tampering with evidence in a criminal case involving a young black activist, who was arrested earlier this year at the Capitol during a protest. Casada's open acknowledgement of the racist and sexually explicit text messages was a stark difference from defensive remarks he had given this past week, in which he initially questioned if the texts had been fabricated. Story continues News of the leaked text messages first broke last week after a news outlet asserted Cothren may have participated in evidence tampering and transmitting racist text messages. "I've never in those 10 years known any kind of racist or bigoted action out of him and so if an individual is willing to run a story that's not true about receiving emails, what else are they making up?" Casada had told reporters last week. Then, on Monday, more text messages were released showing that Casada and Cothren had exchanged sexual explicit text messages about women nearly three years ago. Cothren quickly resigned, though Casada told The Tennessean that his own explicit texting was a comment on "a relationship between two consenting adults." By Wednesday, Casada asked for forgiveness, saying he was a changed person and described those conversations as "locker room talk." Meanwhile, Cothren never acknowledged sending the racist text messages, but was quoted by the Tennessean newspaper as saying that he had sent "derogatory" messages to women in the past. He told The Associated Press that he could not remember the content of all his past messages, but that he had done some things in the past "that I'm not proud of." Rep. Jeremy Faison was one of the Republicans calling for Casada to resign from his speakership. "I see no way possible for him to be an effective leader in this state moving forward," Faison told the AP. Republican Gov. Bill Lee has declined to say if Casada should resign, but has described the recent events as disturbing and intolerable. "Racist slurs, illegal activity, objectification of women, those themselves are not the higher standard," Lee told reporters earlier Wednesday. "Those who choose to be in public service have a higher responsibility to stand against those things." House speakers in Tennessee serve two years before seeking reelection. Casada has only been in office since January. He received 47 secret-ballot votes out of 73 Republicans in the 99-member chamber to become speaker-elect in November. Then the majority leader, he defeated Reps. Curtis Johnson of Clarksville and David Hawk of Greeneville. "Democrats' only hope is for Republican division or scandal, and you will have neither with me. I don't play political games," said Rep. Curtis Johnson, during the GOP caucus elections in November. Separately, Casada has also faced allegations of spying on legislative members which he has adamantly denied. However, House Democrats have sent a complaint to the U.S. Attorney's office requesting an investigating, which has been referred to the FBI. Thailand's army-backed party needs allies to get enough votes to allow coup leader Prayut Chan-O-Cha to cling to power, according to election results released late Wednesday that were immediately challenged by anti-junta rivals. The Junta-linked Palang Pracharat party now has 115 seats in the lower house, only 11 votes shy of a majority in the combined parliament thanks to 250 military-appointed senators. The results were announced more than a month after the March 24 vote, the first election since the junta seized power in a 2014 coup. It was held under new rules crafted by the generals, including the creation of appointed senators who can vote for prime minister. Despite the booked-in advantage, the lower house results leave Palang Pracharat needing coalition partners. The most obvious candidates are Bhumjaitai and the Democrat Party, which both have more than 50 lower house seats. Officials from both parties said Wednesday they have yet to reach a decision. "The party is split," longtime Democrat official Sirichok Sopha told AFP. A number of smaller parties are also up for grabs. Palang Pracharat could not immediately be reached for comment. The election was widely seen as a choice between junta allied parties and those aligned with billionaire ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra. A whopping 27 parties will have seats when parliament convenes within 15 days. Wednesday's results are likely to set off horsetrading, negotiations and challenges. The Shinawatra-linked Pheu Thai party won the most lower house seats -- 136 -- posing a legitimacy crisis for the gruff junta leader Prayut should he become prime minister. It is also part of a lower house coalition with six parties, including upstart newcomer Future Forward headed by telegenic billionaire Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit. Future Forward surged to third place in the popular vote and now has 80 seats. But Thanatorn has been hounded by court cases and complaints that the rising star has blasted as political sabotage". Story continues The Election Commission has come under fire for wildly inaccurate initial counts, the 2.1 million invalidated ballots, and the staggered released of full results. It has been flooded with complaints since the election, and recounts and new voting sessions were held in a handful of polling stations. Pheu Thai threatened to take legal action over the formula used to calculate seats. "Pheu Thai considers the Election Commission's action as an intentional abuse of the law and against the constitution," it said in a statement. LONDON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo attacked long-standing ally Britain over its attitude toward China and Huawei on Wednesday, saying it could impede Washington's sharing of intelligence with London. The United States has told allies not to use Huawei's technology to build new 5G networks because of fears it could be a vehicle for Chinese spying, an accusation the firm has denied, but Britain has indicated it would allow it a restricted role. Pompeo questioned Prime Minister Theresa May's government attitude toward Beijing and goaded London by saying that the late former British leader Margaret Thatcher, who was known as the Iron Lady, would have taken a firmer line with China. "Ask yourself: would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion?," Pompeo said in a speech in London. "Insufficient security will impede the United States' ability to share certain information within trusted networks. This is just what China wants to divide Western alliances through bits and bytes, not bullets and bombs." Pompeo said the West faced the re-emergence of great power competition from China, Russia, and Iran. "Now is not the time for either of us to go wobbly," he said. "In China, we face a new kind of challenge; an authoritarian regime that's integrated economically into the West in ways that the Soviet Union never was." Pompeo said China steals sensitive intellectual property and sensitive commercial data in Europe, Asia, and the U.S., and singled out Huawei. "The Chinese government can rightfully demand access to data flowing through Huawei and ZTE systems. Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace?" he asked. "What can Her Majesty's Government do to make sure sensitive technologies don't become open doors for Beijing's spymasters?" Pompeo said. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge and Kate Holton; writing by Michael Holden) Photo: Peter Lewicki/Unsplash If you're a theater fan, mark your calendars: there's plenty to do when it comes to stage performances in Seattle this week, from "The House of Red Velvet" to "The Spitfire Grill." Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 'The House of Red Velvet' From the event description: "The House of Red Velvet" is surrealistic and euphoric performance dark art theater. You will be taken through a winding dream-like metaphor of erotic and disturbing images, provoking your senses and confusing your mind. It's an experimental artistic orgy of the eccentric; a collective dream inducing all of the human emotions. When: Wednesday, May 8, 10 p.m. Where: Jewelbox Theater at Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave. Price: $25-$75 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets 'Office Hour' From the event description: Alarmed by his grisly writings, a professor invites a troubled student to her office to shed light on and build a bridge across the dark clouds that surround him. As the clock ticks down and tensions rise, she learns that notions of good and bad are dangerous illusions. A stirring call for empathy and a bold experiment in form, this searing play tackles thorny issues of gun violence, immigration and the other to reveal our essential, human need for connection. When: Thursday, May 9, 7:30 p.m. Where: ArtsWest, 4711 California Ave. SW Price: $20 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets 'Found Objects' with Improv Anonymous From the event description: If Show and Tell were as much fun as "Found Objects," nobody would have left preschool. The skilled improvisers of Improv Anonymous take the concept behind the familiar classroom activity and expand it into something exciting and altogether unpredictable. Each week, the performers will bring in an actual object from their day or request one from the audience. Then, with the audience's support, they will craft a story on the spot that explores each object. Story continues When: Friday, May 10, 8:30 p.m. Where: Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley Price: $7.50 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets 'The Spitfire Grill' in Concert From the event description: "The Spitfire Grill" is a cult classic beloved by those who know it for its hopeful, inspiring story and score. Experience the show that Variety called poignant and spine-chilling," and "a show with universal appeal the score is exciting, infectious and lively!" When: Saturday, May 11, 8 p.m. Where: The Cornish Playhouse at Seattle Center, 201 Mercer St. Price: $22.50 Click here for more details, and to get your tickets This story was created automatically using local event data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Theresa May could have extended her spell as Prime Minister after suggesting she is about to offer MPs another vote on her Brexit bill. Theresa May has indicated to senior Conservatives she will offer MPs a crunch Brexit vote within the next two weeks - which could bring down her government if defeated. Mrs Mays gamble could buy her more time in Number 10 as she continues to face pressure over her leadership. Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the Tory backbench 1922 Committee, had urged the prime minister to set out a clearer timetable for her departure from office during two meetings this week. But Mrs May refused, instead indicating that the EU withdrawal agreement bill will go back to the Commons. Sir Graham Brady, Chairman of the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers arriving in Downing Street for talks. Leaving the meeting, Sir Graham suggested the delay was to allow Mrs May one last push to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before the European elections, which are expected to be another brutal defeat for Conservative candidates. He said: "The executive is very keen to meet the Prime Minister and will have a full opportunity to discuss and to reach whatever conclusions it wishes to reach next week. "It's my understanding it's the Government's intention to bring a second reading of the Bill forward in the near future, certainly the intention is before the European election takes place. "Personally I hope the Bill will be brought forward in a form which contains elements of the Political Declaration brought forward that would obviate the need ever for the Irish backstop to apply." An anti-Brexit demonstrator is seen wearing an EU flag cap protesting outside the Houses of Parliament. Ongoing protest about UK leaving the EU. (Photo by Dinendra Haria / SOPA Images/Sipa USA) Sir Graham would not confirm whether he was seeking a departure date from Mrs May at the meeting next Wednesday. But the Tory MP indicated the Withdrawal Agreement Bill could be brought back next week when he said he expected it "hopefully in the much nearer future" than the elections on May 23. Leaving the 1922 meeting, Brexiteer MP Nadine Dorries expressed impatience. She said: "She's not given any decision, there's no timetable and they need to get on with it. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Just one man and four countries want UK to remain in EU Royal baby will not suffer racism in UK Tributes pour in to big hearted soldier killed by elephant Story continues "We need to make sure we get that final decision soon because everybody needs it." Conservative MP Alberto Costa told the Press Association Sir Graham expected Mrs May to leave once she got her Brexit deal through Parliament. He said: "The Prime Minister has been very clear she will step down as soon as the Withdrawal Agreement is passed. "My understanding is that in respect of the request Graham Brady made two weeks ago... he expects to be given an assurance that her Withdrawal Agreement will once again go before Parliament." Theresa May is facing yet more pressure to stand down (Getty) Theresa May is facing yet more threats to her leadership as Tory backbenchers continue to air their dismay at the direction of the party. The Prime Minister is being warned that a Tory grassroots revolt will take place next month if she does not set out specifics on when she will pack her bags and leave Downing Street. The pressure on her position continued to mount as an official announcement about her failure to avoid European elections was quickly followed by continuing deadlock over Brexit talks with Labour. The Prime Minister is facing a Tory grass roots revolt over her leadership (Getty) Sir Graham Brady has faced angry calls from Tory backbenchers for "clarity" on Mrs May's timetable for standing down and triggering a leadership contest (Getty) Tory fury A Tory showdown will take place today as Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench MPs, reveals the outcome of his secret departure talks with Mrs May to his colleagues. Sir Graham has faced angry calls from backbenchers for "clarity" on Mrs May's timetable for standing down and triggering a leadership contest. The treasurer of the 1922 Committee, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, said he would back a grass roots bid to force Mrs May out with a no-confidence vote next month if she did not go of her own volition. Read more from Yahoo News UK: Murderer thought he would lose his arm as police dog bit him Second woman found dead in freezer in east London identified Couple die in Mongolia of bubonic plague after eating raw marmot The Tory MP for the Cotswolds said it was the Prime Minister's decision on when she should go but he would "absolutely" support grass roots moves to try to topple her in June if her departure date was not imminent. When asked what should happen if Mrs May failed to set out her own timetable for departure, he said: "It begins to get much more messy. "It would be much easier and I think the European elections would be much easier if she did set out her own timetable to go but it is up to her. "I think it's quite possible they (grass roots members) might vote for no-confidence in June. Mrs May has been told set out specifics on when she will pack her bags and leave Downing Street (Getty) Rule change? Senior Tory activists will consider the question of Mrs May's leadership at an emergency meeting of association chairmen - set for Saturday, June 15. Story continues Tory MPs are powerless to remove Mrs May following a failed bid to boot her out as leader in December last year, led by Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg - but the grass roots are calling for a rule change. The vote by members at an EGM of the National Conservative Convention would not be binding but would add pressure on Mrs May to quit if passed. Mrs May's exit would open a path for Boris Johnson to become Prime Minister (Getty) In a message to members of the convention, reported by the Conservative Home website, chairman Andrew Sharpe said they would be asked to vote on a motion stating "we no longer feel that Mrs May is the right person to continue as Prime Minister to lead us forward in the negotiations" and "therefore with great reluctance ask that she considers her position and resigns. Dinah Glover, a Tory activist whose petition triggered the EGM, told the i newspaper: "The party at the moment is in absolute meltdown because they are terrified she is going to do a deal which will do damage to our country. The Government has confirmed that the European elections will go ahead (Getty) Euro elections The news of more threats came as Mrs May officially accepted she cannot get her Brexit deal through Parliament in time to avoid European elections on May 23. Her effective deputy David Lidington confirmed the elections will go ahead, but said the Government was "redoubling our efforts" to get an EU Withdrawal Agreement ratified by the start of July so the MEPs elected this month never have to take their seats. Only hours later, shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey confirmed negotiations on a new Brexit deal that could win a parliamentary majority have still to bear fruit. "Nothing has been agreed yet," she said after a three-hour meeting, which she labelled "very robust. The PM is still hoping to strike a Brexit deal with Jeremy Corbyn (Getty) But Ms Long-Bailey said there had been no movement towards a customs union, temporary or otherwise, and would only say another referendum was "one of many options. She said: "We haven't had any movement or agreement on a customs union, certainly not today, but we will see what the rest of the week holds. "Our policy position has not changed since the last Labour conference, where a public vote was one of many options on the table, certainly to avoid a Tory deal, a bad Tory Brexit or a no-deal situation. "Certainly we've been exploring the issue of a confirmatory vote in these discussions, but as yet nothing has been agreed. A Downing Street spokesman added more talks were scheduled for Wednesday. Widely recognized for her public scholarship in antisemitism and Holocaust studies, including Holocaust denial, professor Deborah Lipstadt delights in engaging a diverse cross-section of students across all levels of curriculum. How do you shine a new light on a very old problem? When Emory professor Deborah Lipstadt launched her latest book project an examination of the resurgence of antisemitism across Europe and the U.S. her approach was shaped by a career spent in the classroom. Antisemitism: Here and Now (Penguin/Random House, 2018), an analysis of what she calls the longest hatred, unfolds as a series of conversational letters written by Lipstadt to two fictional acquaintances an inquisitive college student and a campus colleague, composites of people shes known across more than 40 years of teaching. Yet the questions they pose are quite real, concerns that have echoed against a rise in antisemitic violence around the globe. In fact, the sheer pace of those events made it almost impossible to finish the book, Lipstadt admits, with disturbing new incidents emerging almost daily. That her exploration reads like a thoughtful classroom exchange clear, logical, accessible is no accident. At first, I wasnt sure how to write this book, acknowledges Lipstadt, Dorot Professor of Modern Jewish History and Holocaust Studies. Suddenly, I realized that I was writing for students, among others. So presenting this in a way that can truly reach them became really important, because this is material of universal importance, especially now. Those who know her best arent surprised by Lipstadts resolve. Widely recognized for her public scholarship in antisemitism and Holocaust studies, including Holocaust denial, Lipstadt is considered an intellectual thought leader, known for seeking answers through facts, historical truth and open dialogue. Nowhere is that more evident than the classroom, where she delights in engaging a diverse cross-section of students with all levels of curriculum, from first-year introductory survey courses to graduate seminars not just showing young minds the path of academic inquiry, but modeling it as a teacher, mentor and renowned public scholar. It is in recognition of those enduring qualities, across decades of work with graduate and undergraduate students as well as faculty colleagues, that Lipstadt has been selected as the 2019 recipient of the George P. Cuttino Award for Excellence in Mentoring. Established in 1997 by John T. Glover 68C in honor of late Emory history professor George Peddy Cuttino, the award celebrates exemplary mentorship. Caring in the classroom and beyond From the start, Lipstadt was drawn to the classroom. Born in New York City to parents who valued books and learning, she eventually found her calling as an historian, with a focus on Holocaust and modern Jewish studies. Though research was a passion, she felt happily at home in the classroom. I realized what I really wanted to do was teach, she recalls. Once I got up in front of a class, I just knew it was right. Her greatest pleasure was seeing minds open to new ideas. Getting them to think, to question their preconceived ideas, she says. Thats very exciting to me. In the classroom, Lipstadt strives to nurture a teacher-student dynamic rooted in respect. There are no stupid questions, she tells them. If you have a question, ask it. Chances are, someone else is wondering too. She values inquisitiveness and is always open to new ideas of thought among new generations of students, says Matthew Brittingham, a PhD candidate in the Laney Graduate Schools Graduate Division of Religion who serves as Lipstadts teaching assistant and has also taken classes with her. And she clearly enjoys being with students, takes the time to get to know them and cares about them, he adds. In the classroom, shes committed to hearing students tell their stories, relating to them and making sure their perspectives are heard. In fact, Lipstadt has always impressed upon students the necessity of being engaged in the world around them, emphasizing how scholarly questions have profound implications for the most important issues they will face in the world beyond the classroom, writes Eric Goldstein, Judith London Evans Director of the Tam Institute for Jewish Studies, in nominating her for the Cuttino Award. Its a quality praised in course evaluations and word-of-mouth endorsements from her students, who will show up at her speaking and reading engagements around the globe years after graduation relationships held strong across the miles and years. To Lipstadt, teaching is a people-centered profession, and she simply loves people. People are my hobby, she laughs. When I can sit and talk with students, well, thats why we do what we do. Its both a privilege and a responsibility. Sharing a world of experiences In 1992, Lipstadt came to Emory as an associate professor of religion, where she would eventually serve as the founding director of the Tam Institute for Jewish Studies. The following year, she published her award-winning book, Denying the Holocaust: The Growing Assault on Truth and Memory, the first full length study of those who attempt to deny the Holocaust. She identified the movement as arising from antisemitic diatribe and pseudo-history, and warned of its growth. In 1996, Lipstadt was famously sued for libel in the United Kingdom by David Irving for identifying him as a Holocaust denier in her book. Her landmark court battle and eventual victory was depicted in her 2005 book History on Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier, which was made into the 2016 film Denial, starring Academy Award-winning actress Rachel Weisz as Lipstadt. When Lipstadt teaches about depictions of the Holocaust in film and memoir, her students are sometimes taken aback to learn that her own life and scholarship have been portrayed on the big screen, Brittingham says. Theyre filled with questions. Did they get it right? What was it like to go to Auschwitz with the production company? What was it like to face David Irving? It all comes alive in a way far beyond just reading the book, he says. And though many public scholars of her stature would find it convenient to set aside teaching and mentoring duties, Lipstadts heightened public profile has only made her understand more profoundly the importance of reaching students on an individual level, writes Goldstein, an associate professor of history and Jewish studies. Despite her busy travel schedule, she takes the time to get to know her students individually, and considers the role of mentor to be among the most serious and consequential that she plays, he writes. He notes that students have resoundingly expressed their view that she is one of the best undergraduate teachers in the Emory College of Arts and Sciences a distinction recognized in 1997, when she received the Emory Williams Award for Distinguished Teaching, one of the universitys top faculty honors. Strolling across campus alongside Lipstadt, her influence is obvious. Students will stop her all the time, and she knows them by name, what they are up to and working on, reflects Brittingham. Her connections stretch far and wide. At a conference recently representing Holocaust Denial on Trial, a website created by Emory and Lipstadt to refute misleading claims by Holocaust deniers, people were like, Oh my gosh, you work for Professor Lipstadt? says Brittingham, who serves as project manager for the site. So many people know and respect her work. But beyond the prestige of working for one of the nations foremost experts on Holocaust denial and antisemitism, his greatest lessons gleaned from Lipstadt come down to two things: humility and relationships. Its just the way she interacts with students and cares about them on a personal level, he says. Shes reminded me that challenging students even beyond their expectations is a good thing, pushing them in ways that are thoughtful, nuanced and helpful. Through her care and attention, Lipstadt has been such an awesome mentor, to myself and so many other students, he adds. I know that shes going to be deeply humbled by this award. But it will be great for her to realize how shes helped us. British Prime Minister Theresa May leaves 10 Downing Street in London, to attend Prime Minister's Questions at the Houses of Parliament, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) Theresa May is risking a rebellion in her own party by resisting growing calls to step down as Prime Minister earlier than initially planned. A Downing Street spokesperson said today Mrs May still intends to stay in post until she has managed to get her Brexit deal through Parliament. The spokesperson said: She is here to deliver Brexit in phase one, and then she will leave and make way for new leadership in phase two. It comes as Andrea Jenkyns, Conservative MP for Morley and Outwood, called on Mrs May to resign during Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday over her handling of Brexit. Andrea Jenkyns MP who has called for Theresa May to resign over her handling of Brexit. Countdown to leaving the EU. (PA) Brexit-backing Ms Jenkyns told Mrs May that she had "failed" in EU withdrawal negotiations and forfeited the trust of the public. She said: "She's tried her best, nobody could fault or doubt her commitment and sense of duty, but she has failed. "The public no longer trust her to run Brexit negotiations. Isn't it time to step aside and let someone else lead our country, our party and the Brexit negotiations?" Mrs May retorted: "This is not an issue about me and it's not an issue about her. If it were an issue about me and the way I vote, we would already have left the European Union." The full-frontal assault at Prime Minister's Questions came as pressure increased on Mrs May to name a date for her departure as cross-party Brexit talks with Labour dragged on without a conclusion. Meanwhile, Cabinet minister Andrea Leadsom has said she is "seriously considering" standing for the Conservative leadership. Leader of the House of Commons Andrea Leadsom has said she is considering a second leadership bid. Ms Leadsom, who stood for the leadership in 2016 but pulled out to give Mrs May a clear run at the job, became the latest senior Tory to indicate she may throw her hat into the ring for the upcoming contest. The Leader of the Commons said: "I've supported her for the last three years to get Brexit over the line. She has said she's going, so yes I am seriously considering standing." Speaking at PMQs in the Commons shortly afterwards, Morley and Outwood MP Ms Jenkyns told MPs it was time for Mrs May to quit. Story continues Read more from Yahoo News UK: Just one man and four countries want UK to remain in EU Royal baby will not suffer racism in UK Tributes pour in to big hearted soldier killed by elephant What has Theresa May said about stepping down? The Prime Minister promised in March to quit as Tory leader when the first phase of Brexit negotiations, dealing with divorce terms, is complete. But she is resisting calls from the backbench 1922 Committee for "clarity" on her plans if her Withdrawal Agreement fails to get through the Commons. And with her effective deputy David Lidington suggesting he hopes the deal can be concluded by July, there is speculation she may seek to hang on until the annual party conference in the autumn. Mrs May has repeatedly said a general election would not be in the best interests of the country and following last weeks local elections it is unlikely she would have the support of the party should she wish to make a u-turn on her position. As Congressional Democrats prepare to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt over his supposed lack of transparency, its worth remembering that he has made available to top Democrats the entirety of volume II of the Mueller report, save for two full and seven partial lines, which were redacted to protect grand jury secrecy in keeping with federal law. In order to provide lawmakers with greater transparency into special counsel Robert Muellers investigation, the Department of Justice placed a less-redacted version of his report in a secure room on Capitol Hill, and granted access to that room to congressional leaders of both parties, as well as the chairmen and ranking members of intelligence and judiciary committees in the House and Senate. As of this writing, not one of the six Democrats granted access to what amounts to 99.9 percent of volume II of the Mueller report, which details the presidents behavior as it relates to obstruction of justice, have taken the opportunity to examine it. If they had, they could have viewed the entirety of Muellers obstruction case against Trump except for the following seven redactions, two of which are applied to footnotes. In response to Barrs offer, Congressional Democrats have said that the full report should be made available to all lawmakers and have argued that outcome will become less likely if top congressmen view the less-redacted version. Every member of Congress ought to be able to see that version, Mark Warner, ranking Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, told our own John McCormack. I think if I were to go, youd lessen the case. But Democratic leaders are not asking for that version, which retains its grand jury redactions; they are asking, and subpoenaed for, a fully unredacted report and all of the millions of pages of underlying documentary evidence, which relate to 22 ongoing criminal investigations. Story continues Rather than examining the entirety of volume II of the Mueller report, save for the aforementioned lines, Democrats have advanced a vote to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt on the grounds that the two-time attorney general has cynically orchestrated a wholesale coverup. As assistant attorney general William Boyd argued in a letter sent to House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerry Nadler on Monday, Democrats refusal to examine the most transparent version of the report that Barr can legally make available, naturally raises questions about the sincerity of the committees interest in and purported need for the redacted material. More from National Review Photo: iStock Missed the the most recent top news in Fresno? Read on for everything you need to know. Advocacy group releases list of 23 priests in Fresno Diocese accused of sexual abuse The Roman Catholic Diocese of Fresno is in the process of compiling a list of priests credibly accused of sex abuse, but an advocacy group is getting out ahead of the organization. Read the full story on The Bakersfield Californian. Fresno substitute teacher caught on camera grabbing student's neck after dispute over cell phone CAUGHT ON CAMERA: The student's mother says the argument started over the student's cell phone. Now, she's threatening legal action. Read the full story on ABC Fresno, KFSN. 4 people detained in connection to two overnight robberies in Fresno Police say the suspects walked into the store and at least one of them held an employee at gunpoint. Read the full story on ABC Fresno, KFSN. More grass fires igniting in Fresno County Six fires popped up just west of Highway 99, one after another, last Friday. Read the full story on KSEE24 News. Punched in the face, her purse and money stolen; Fresno woman thought she'd never get her cash back In January, Blanca Valle was getting her nails done when police say, two women walked into the business, snatched her bag, eventually punching her in the face. Valle had $3,000 inside the purse, which she thought she'd never see again. Read the full story on CBS47 Fresno. This story was created automatically using data about news stories on social media from CrowdTangle, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. Profits at Japanese car giant Toyota hit the skids despite record sales, the company admitted Wednesday, although it said it expected to accelerate out of trouble in the year ahead. The maker of the Camry sedan and Prius hybrid said net profit was down 24.5 percent from its best-ever result the year before, at 1.88 trillion yen ($17 billion) in the year to March 31. Toyota's bottom line was pushed down by some 294 billion yen in book losses on its investment portfolio. Senior managing officer Masayoshi Shirayanagi blamed "the deterioration of the stock market in the current period" for the investment losses. He added the figures also suffered in comparison with previous year's 250-billion-yen boost from US tax reform. However, the firm forecast net profit to rise 19.5 percent in the coming year to 2.25 trillion yen. And sales rose 2.9 percent to a record 30.23 trillion yen, leaving an operating profit of 2.47 trillion yen, which was up 2.8 percent year-on-year. Akio Toyoda, the firm's president, noted it was the first time a Japanese company had ever logged annual sales in excess of 30 trillion yen. The firm expects operating profit for the current year to March 2020 will increase 3.3 percent to 2.55 trillion yen. Sales are forecast to sag 0.7 percent to 30 trillion yen. "Toyota has cruised steadily, compared with its rivals," said analyst Satoru Takada at TIW, a Tokyo-based research and consulting firm. "The firm largely showed a reasonable performance around the world at a time when the global market is slowing down," he said. - Brexit 'relocation talks' - Takada was less bullish on the outlook of the auto industry. Japanese carmakers have enjoyed a heyday in recent years with the North American market steadily recovering from the financial crisis of the late 2000s and China growing into a mammoth market, he noted. "But the outlook for the two biggest markets is now murky, while material costs are rising," said the analyst. Story continues "Also, they can't expect the one-time impact of US tax cuts, which temporarily boosted their profit before. Tough factors outnumbered positive ones," he told AFP. Rival firm Honda also announced on Wednesday that net profit plunged 42.4 percent to 610 billion yen, citing losses related to reorganisation of the global automobile production in Europe. Sales rose 3.4 percent to 15.9 trillion yen. The company forecasts net profit for the year ending March 2020 will grow 9.0 percent to 665 billion yen. The business environment for auto companies has also been clouded by the US-China trade war and continued uncertainty from Brexit. President Toyoda noted: "If you look at the world, the protectionist way of thinking is spreading. Just as natural resource-poor Japan cannot live alone, we, companies, cannot live alone." Toyota executives have said previously there would be no way to avoid a negative impact in the event of a no-deal Brexit. The firm said its assembly plant in Burnaston in central England, which produces 600 vehicles per day, would be affected. The plant operates under Toyota's famous "just-in-time" system, holding limited stock on site and relying on flexible imports of millions of component car parts from the EU. "If Britain finally leaves the EU, automakers are likely to accelerate relocation talks. It is natural for them to move to a profitable place," Takada said. Toyota shares were down some two percent late in the morning but trimmed the losses by more than half at the close after the results and guidance were announced. This was mainly due to the announcement it would buy back shares for up to 300 billion yen, boosting the price. Toyoda said the carmaker's main challenge was to guard against complacency in a fast-moving sector. "The most dangerous attitude is believing 'Toyota is going to be okay'," he said, since the company is faced with cut-throat competition in a rapidly changing world. WASHINGTON (AP) Vice President Mike Pence said Wednesday that the Trump administration intends to challenge the right of federal district courts to issue rulings blocking nationwide policies, arguing that such injunctions are obstructing President Donald Trump's agenda on immigration, health care and other issues. In a speech at the Federalist Society conference in Washington, Pence argued that nationwide injunctions issued by federal judges "prevent the executive branch from acting, compromising our national security by obstructing the lawful ability of the president to stop threats to the homeland where he sees them." He said the administration will seek opportunities to put this question before the Supreme Court "to ensure that decisions affecting every American are made either by those elected to represent the American people or by the highest court in the land." Top administration officials have often complained about the proliferation of nationwide injunctions since Trump became president, so the idea of pushing back is not new. Indeed, the administration has asked the Supreme Court to deal with nationwide injunctions in the past, including in the travel ban case. But the court never addressed the nationwide extent of the injunction against the ban issued by lower courts because the justices upheld the ban in its entirety. For the Supreme Court to issue a definitive ruling on nationwide injunctions, it would first have to rule against the administration on the underlying merits of the case before it. Only at that point could the court consider whether a lower court order should apply nationwide or only to the people who are challenging an administration policy. A nationwide injunction has the effect of stopping "a federal policy everywhere," the administration told the Supreme Court in the travel ban case. The more common practice is for a judge to issue an order that gives only the people who sued what they want. Story continues A White House official said the administration would be looking for potential relevant cases to press the issue, and said Pence also discussed it at the end of the Cabinet meeting convened by the president on Wednesday. In his remarks, Pence quoted from an opinion by Justice Clarence Thomas, who joined the majority opinion upholding the Trump travel ban last June, but also wrote separately to say nationwide injunctions "are legally and historically dubious" and that the high court would have to step in "if federal courts continue to issue them." Trump has long railed against district courts, especially the 9th Circuit, for blocking his initiatives, including efforts to overhaul the nation's immigration system. At a re-election rally Wednesday night in Florida, Trump said, "Activist judges who issue nationwide injunctions based on their personal beliefs undermine democracy and threaten the rule of law." But Trump won a 2-1 ruling from the 9th Circuit on Tuesday that allows the administration to make asylum seekers wait in Mexico for immigration court hearings while a court challenge continues. __ Follow Colvin and Sherman on Twitter at https://twitter.com/colvinj and https://twitter.com/shermancourt Lokman Ilhan/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- One week after opposition protests sought to spur top Venezuelan leaders to abandon Nicolas Maduro, the country's embattled socialist president, the U.S. is stepping in again to try to spur action with an offer: Defect from Maduro and avoid U.S. sanctions. Vice President Mike Pence announced Tuesday that the U.S. removed sanctions against the country's former chief of the intelligence service, SEBIN, after Gen. Manuel Cristopher Figuera broke with Maduro last Tuesday. At the same time, Pence threatened new economic penalties against the 25 justices on the country's Supreme Court. "I came today to be very clear. The United States will continue to exert all diplomatic and economic pressure to bring about a peaceful transition of democracy in Venezuela, but to those who continue to oppress the good people of Venezuela, know this: All options are on the table," Pence said. The U.S.-supported movement to oust Maduro hit a wall again after the protests last week failed to win the major high-level defections that would push Maduro from power. The president of Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly, Juan Guaido, and his mentor, Leopoldo Lopez, called for mass demonstrations and military defections Tuesday in what they said was the "final phase" of that push. But by the end of the week, Maduro remained in control of the security services and armed forces while Lopez, who had been under house arrest, went into hiding at the Spanish embassy in the capital, Caracas. Guaido, who the U.S. and 53 other countries have recognized as the legitimate leader of the country, continues to rally supporters but has yet to secure power. As Maduro tries to wield the power of Venezuela's institutions to crack down on political opponents and reassert power, Pence's announcement Tuesday is meant to counter that and give Guaido's effort a new boost. He blasted the Supreme Court as a "political tool" of Maduro's government that has "undermined its constitutional mandate" and offered the threat of sanctions or the opportunity of sanctions relief as a way forward. "As President Guaido builds a brighter future for Venezuela, we hope the action that our nation is taking today will encourage others to follow the example of General Christopher Figuera and members of military who've also stepped forward and taken a stand," Pence said. The lifting of sanctions means that Figuera, who was sanctioned in February, could once again access any financial assets that the U.S. government had frozen and do business with American individuals and entities. On Tuesday, Pence also accused Maduro's government of being a "failed state" that aids and abets drug traffickers and terrorist organizations associated with Iran, such as Hezbollah. But while President Donald Trump has said Russia's Vladimir Putin is not "looking at all to get involved" in Venezuela, Pence contradicted that, calling Russia out for supplying weapons and cash to the regime. "Despite their denials, it's clear that Russia also seeks a foothold in this hemisphere," Pence said. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. Lauded for local, regional and international contributions, marketing professor Jagdish Sheth has published more than 350 papers and books while continuously working to inspire and support others. This years Thomas Jefferson Award winner is more accustomed to giving than receiving. Professor Jagdish Sheth, the Charles H. Kellstadt Chair in Marketing, is the 2019 winner of an award that honors a faculty or staff member who has significantly enriched the intellectual and civic life of the Emory community. Sheth has combined intelligent inquiry, entrepreneurship and philanthropic zeal to build a career that includes publishing more than 350 research papers and books in various areas of marketing, including consumer behavior and marketing for emerging markets. In addition, he serves on the boards of the Community Foundation of Greater Atlanta and the World Affairs Council of Atlanta, and he has been active advising international governments and policy makers including the U.S. Department of Transportation and the government of Singapore. For Sheth, who has won a number of honors, the Jefferson Award holds particular meaning. This award is really special because it is selected by a committee of university-wide peers, says Sheth. Also, it is special because the Jefferson Award reinforces that the mission of an academic, which is to unlock the potential of others. Helping others find that potential is a passion of Sheths and has fueled his research and teaching. Erika James, the John H. Harland Dean of Goizueta Business School, and seven others across campus detailed the breath of Sheths work and activities in a six-page nomination letter. The impact was not lost on the judges, all of whom are prior award winners. The committee was deeply impressed by the local, regional and international contributions Professor Sheth has made through his distinguished career at Emory, says Carol J. Rowland Hogue, Jules & Uldeen Terry Professor of Maternal and Child Health, professor of epidemiology and director of the Women's and Children's Center. Adds Hogue, the 2017 Jefferson Award recipient, He was nominated by leaders all across Emory University for his demonstrated energy, curiosity, continuous learning, advancing scholarship, generous mentorship and development, academic and social integrity, unbounded generosity, and selfless attention to personal and community development in the extended Emory global environment over the span of his 25-year career at Emory. The personal nature of Sheths commitment to students also impressed the committee. Through his compelling teaching and mentorship, Professor Sheth's passion for preparing future generations of scholars and leaders is broadly known throughout Emory and beyond, says the Religion Departments Bobbi Patterson, 2015 award winner. As a Jefferson Award winner, we celebrate his creative and widely-recognized scholarship, service on countless Emory committees, the development of strong international relationships, and generous creation of awards for alums and faculty. Generosity and global impact For many across campus, Sheths generosity is well-known. Jagdish Sheth is a visionary leader and beloved mentor, colleague, teacher and supporter of many important initiatives at Emory. He and his wife, Madhu Sheth, and the Sheth Family Foundation, have been most generous in so many ways and we have become a better institution and better informed as individuals as a result, notes Holli A. Semetko, Asa Griggs Candler Professor of Media & International Affairs, who served as Emory's vice provost for international affairs and director of The Halle Institute for Global Learning from 2003 to 2013. For example, with the Sheth Lecture in Indian Studies, Emory and Atlanta communities have hosted amazingly talented individuals in film, literature, politics, business, religion, spirituality and more, says Semetko. With Jag and Madhu's support for the South Asia Collection at the Carlos Museum and with the gift of volumes of India's Supreme Court decisions to Emory's Law School library, we see the gift of knowledge generate benefits across Emory and the larger Atlanta community, and more. James Curran, dean of the Rollins School of Public Health, echoes Sheths global impact. Jag Sheth is an incredible university leader who inspires us all to expand our global vision and act boldly to grasp opportunities, Curran says. His persistent vision is enacted through persuasion, incentives, education and offering prestigious recognition of faculty, colleagues and alumni. He has been and remains a model global faculty member. Sheth is also known to many as friend. He is the full package top scholar, highly respected in global public and private sectors, leader in pedagogy and education institution governance, generous with his advice and mentorship, highly respected by world leaders, and a strong servant to Emory University and each institution he has engaged, says fellow faculty member Benn Konsynski, the George S. Craft Professor in Information Systems & Operations Management at Goizueta. I am proud to call him a friend. As the 57th recipient of the Jefferson Award, Sheth is the first faculty member from the Goizueta community to win the award a fact that adds even more heft to the honor. Anything that is unprecedented always feels like another major milestone in lifes journey, notes Sheth, who turned 80 last year. It means that the business school is an integral part of the university. It also means that the One Emory vision of the new leadership is successfully implemented with respect to diverse faculty talent and expertise. Most importantly, this award will pave the way for others to be recognized for their talent and dedication to Emory and scholarship. By Sarah N. Lynch WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Wednesday asserted executive privilege over Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report and its underlying investigative materials, escalating a battle with the Democrats on the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. The move, announced by the Justice Department in a letter to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, came just minutes before the panel was poised to vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for defying a congressional subpoena to hand over the full unredacted report. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) President Donald Trump has asserted executive privilege over all of Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigative documents sought by House Democrats, a major escalation in a conflict between the White House and Congress. The president has asserted executive privilege over the entirety of the subpoenaed materials, the Justice Department wrote in a letter Wednesday to House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler. The move comes just as Nadlers committee was set to vote on holding Attorney General William Barr in contempt for failing to comply with the subpoena, which sought access to a full, unredacted version of Muellers final report as well as all of his underlying evidence, such as notes that White House aides made.Faced with Chairman Nadlers blatant abuse of power, and at the attorney generals request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement. The Justice Department told Nadler on Wednesday that it is terminating all negotiations with the panel over access to the full and unredacted Mueller report. Trumps advisers have been pushing him to defy congressional investigations in hopes of luring Democrats into escalating a fight that they say will turn voters against the party in the 2020 elections. They also see an upside from House Speaker Nancy Pelosis warning on Tuesday that the administrations defiance of subpoenas could lead to impeachment proceedings, arguing they would distract attention from candidates vying to replace Trump. Separately, the administration on Tuesday told former White House Counsel Don McGahn not to comply with a subpoena from House Democrats to turn over documents. Over the weekend, Trump tweeted that Mueller shouldnt testify to Congress, and on Monday, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin refused a request to turn over Trumps tax returns. Story continues White House advisers say cooperating with Democrats provides little advantage as many voters have already made up their mind about Trumps character. Records from Trumps business or time as president could reveal damaging information for Democrats to use against him. But the effort to turn Trumps potential liabilities into a 2020 election advantage carries risks. The presidents refusal to turn over documents could lead voters to conclude he has something to hide and focus attention on the Mueller investigation, which painted an unflattering picture of Trump even if it didnt result in a criminal indictment. That could turn off moderate and independent voters in key swing states like Pennsylvania. More must-read stories from Fortune: This proposed legislation could light up the pot business Why Americans are still waiting on Congress for disaster relief What exactly is ranked-choice voting? Bill and Melinda Gates top Fortunes 2019 Worlds Greatest Leaders list Get up to speed on your morning commute with Fortunes CEO Daily newsletter WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday defended himself following a media report that said his businesses had lost a total of more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, saying he had leeway with his taxes as a real estate developer. The report, published in the New York Times on Tuesday, detailed how his core businesses of casinos, hotels and apartment buildings had lost $1.17 billion over a decade, allowing him to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years. During the period described, Trump said he was allowed massive tax write-offs for depreciation and many "non monetary" losses, adding the report contained "very old information." "You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes ... almost all real estate developers did - and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport," Trump said in a post on Twitter on Wednesday. Though U.S. presidential candidates have traditionally released their tax returns during the campaign, Trump has refused to do so. He also continues to own his businesses, though he has said his sons run the day-to-day operations. Trump has repeatedly said he could not release his tax documents because he is under audit by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). His former lawyer Michael Cohen, however, told a House panel in February that rather than an audit being underway, Trump feared releasing the tax information could lead to an audit and penalties. Democrats in U.S. House of Representatives have requested Trump's tax returns as part of investigations into the president and any possible conflicts of interest, but Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this week refused a request for them, setting the stage for a likely legal fight. Officials in New York state are also taking steps to seek the president's tax returns, the New York Times has reported. Trump has previously said any probe of his personal or business finances were off limits, telling the Times in a July 2017 interview that any such scrutiny would be crossing a "red line." (Reporting by Makini Brice; Editing by Bernadette Baum) President Donald Trump defended his real estate tax strategy saying his business was entitled to write-offs following a New York Times investigation that showed he reported losses of $1.17 billion between 1985 and 1994. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes, Trump tweeted on Wednesday. Almost all real estate developers did and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport. The president was responding to a Times report showing his businesses generated huge losses and his hotel and casino properties were eligible for large depreciation write-offs that meant he paid taxes for only two years during that period. The report was based on tax records the newspaper said it had obtained. Real estate developers in the 1980s & 1990s, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases. Much was non monetary. Sometimes considered tax shelter, Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Without disputing the substance of the newspapers findings, Trump called it very old information put out is a highly inaccurate Fake News hit job! undefined Trump whittled down his tax payments using the same parts of the U.S. tax code that hes criticized other businesses for taking advantage of since he entered politics. Hes complained that large corporations such as Amazon.com led by the worlds richest man, Jeff Bezos are shirking their tax responsibilities. Read more: Trump Used Same Tax Breaks as Amazon to Obliterate His IRS Bill Trumps tax information shows he only paid taxes during two years during the decade the Times examined. He faced a liability those years for a combined total of about $1.5 million in taxes because of the alternative minimum tax, a backstop that prevents the wealthy from claiming so many tax credits and deductions that they dont pay any tax. Story continues Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat from Delaware, said the report showed Trump failed spectacularly in business during that time frame. How was he bailed out? Coons said on CNN. Thats really the question worth asking. New reports of Trumps low tax bills are fueling House Democrats anger at not being able to view his more recent tax returns. The Times said their reporting was based on figures from his tax transcripts and the figures from his tax returns, but not the returns themselves. Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the new information wasnt enough. It tells me nothing, Pelosi of California said Wednesday at an event in Washington, adding, It does tell us it would be useful to see his tax returns. Trump broke with more than 40 years of tradition by refusing to release his tax returns before the 2016 election. Last month, House Ways and Means Chairman Richard Neal requested that the IRS release Trumps personal and business tax returns, but Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday refused. Neal, a Massachusetts Democrat, is currently consulting with legal counsel on how to proceed, and the clash is likely to turn into a protracted legal battle. Trump sold himself to voters as a master deal-maker who could bring the same success to the country as he says he did to his businesses. The Times report underscores the steep losses and frequent failures of his deals. While he never personally filed for bankruptcy, his businesses sought bankruptcy protection four times. Donald Trump is "impeachable" and Congress must look at the question again in the wake of the Mueller report, the Republican former governor Bill Weld has said. Mr Weld is running against Mr Trump in the Republican 2020 primary, much to the chagrin of the White House but when he talks about impeachment he knows more than most. The former federal prosecutor worked on the House of Representatives 1974 impeachment inquiry of Richard Nixon and contributed to then Houses report on the constitutional grounds for impeachment He also resigned as head of the Justice Departments criminal division in 1988 amid concerns over the ethical conduct of attorney general Edwin Meese. He just wants to interfere with the ordinary workings of the constitution and thats quintessential impeachment offence, Me Weld told MSNBC. Mr Weld said that the 11 instances of possible obstruction of justice by Mr Trump that special counsel Robert Mueller laid out in his report into Russian election interference and the conduct of the Trump presidential campaign marks a clear case of obstruction of justice. The former governor also referenced a letter signed by more than 500 former prosecutors, including Mr Weld, that said the president should face charges. Each of us believes that the conduct of President Trump described in Special Counsel Robert Muellers report would, in the case of any other person not covered by the Office of Legal Counsel policy against indicting a sitting President, result in multiple felony charges for obstruction of justice, the statement reads. US senator Richard Blumenthal said he was proud to add his name to the list of signatures, which includes officials who worked for both Democratic and Republican administrations stretching back to Dwight Eisenhower. When asked about the contention put forward by many Republicans that there was no conspiracy on show, Mr Weld was forthright that the actions of Mr Trump and attorney general William Barr prove otherwise. Story continues There was a [chargeable conspiracy], Mr Weld said. I think its clear that my old friend Bill Barr said to my old friend Bob Mueller: Im not going to let you charge this guy if you do Im going to squash it so Mueller had no recourse. Mr Weld said that he had been against impeachment proceedings but that the i word deserves re-examining. He said that Mr Barrs actions, in refusing to be appear in front of a House committee to discuss the report only hardened his resolve. If the president and the AG are simply going to thumb their nose at Congress and say we arent going to play... I think it needs a little re-thinking in view of the brazenness of the response Being pro-choice and campaigning against climate change Mr Weld bears little resemblance to the Republican Party now led by Mr Trump, indeed he was on the Libertarian Party ticket for the 2016 presidential election. Mr Weld hopes to give Mr Trump a bloody nose in early primary races, particularly New Hampshire, with the aim of getting some momentum to challenge the president. He added that whatever else is in the Trump campaigns plans they sure dont want an election. Good morning. Fears of an escalation of the U.S.-China trade war caused stocks to plummet yesterday in the U.S., and continue their decline this morning in Asia. But the man who has spent more years doing business in China than any other Americanformer AIG CEO Hank Greenbergsaid he remained confident the two sides would reach a deal. I didnt sell any stock, he said. Greenberg, who turned 94 on Saturday, joined Fortune last night at a dinner that is part of the lead-up to the Fortune Global Sustainability Forum in Yunnan province on Sept. 4-6. The event will be a gathering of global business, government and NGO leaders who are focused on ways to accelerate solutions to climate change and other environmental problems. Greenberg and others at the dinner emphasized that economic reform of the sort the Trump team is pushing is in Chinas interest, and many Chinese officials favor it. But they also noted that President Donald Trumps Twitter attack on China this week will make it harder for President Xi Jinping to compromise without losing face. Greenberg led the business campaign in 2001 to admit China to the World Trade Organizationa move Trump has criticized. But Greenberg said he has no regrets. China did not open its economy as much as he expected at the time, but you cant keep 1.4 billion people out of the global trading system. Since being forced out as CEO of AIG in 2005, Greenberg has built a second financial services giant, C.V. Starr. These days he is entangled in a dispute with AIG over which firm is the true successor to the company Cornelius Vanderbilt Starr started 100 years ago. When I asked whether, given his recent birthday, it might be time to consider retirement, he replied: Id get too bored. Heres an interview I did with Greenberg on the same subject last month at the Council on Foreign Relations. Details on the Yunnan event here. More news below. Alan Murray @alansmurray alan.murray@fortune.com General Motors is poised to sell the northeast Ohio factory that it's closing to a little-known maker of electric pickups, President Donald Trump said Wednesday on Twitter. While Trump has been known to mischaracterize these types of deals, the president claimed that GM CEO Mary Barra told him about the plan to sell the Lordstown, Ohio, factory to Workhorse Group. GM said it's "discussions" to sell the plant to an entity affiliated with Workhorse, which "could bring significant production and electric vehicle assembly jobs to the Mahoning Valley." GM announced in 2018 that the Lordstown plant would cease production as part of the automaker's sweeping plan to kill most of its passenger cars. The Lordstown plant made the Chevrolet Cruze compact car, which is being discontinued. The plant's fate is ultimately subject to a new union contract between GM and the United Auto Workers, which represents the plant's hourly employees. In Lordstown, Ohio, on March 6, 2019. Trump said on Twitter that the plant's sale would be "subject to a UAW agreement." Trump along with a bipartisan chorus of other political officials, including Democratic presidential contenders Joe Biden and Elizabeth Warren had criticized GM for announcing plans to shut the plant. "With all the car companies coming back, and much more, THE USA IS BOOMING!" Trump said. Workhorse said the Lordstown site could host production of a commercial electric pickup. An investment by Workhorse would almost surely be substantially smaller than GM's Lordstown operation at its peak, when the plant employed thousands of workers. "This potential agreement creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community," Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said in a statement. Workhorse's publicly traded stock rose 48.4% to $1.25 at 12:53 p.m. Dave Green, a UAW representative in Ohio, declined to comment. Story continues Cincinnati-based Workhorse, which makes electric pickups and software, had $763,000 in revenue in 2018, down from $10 million in 2017. GM also plans to invest $700 million in three Ohio plants to create 450 jobs: locations in Toledo, Parma and Moraine. "The U.S. economy and our core business are strong, so we can expand our commitment to U.S. manufacturing and Ohio and create job opportunities for our employees," Barra said in a statement. Contributing: Jamie LaReau Follow USA TODAY reporter Nathan Bomey on Twitter @NathanBomey. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump says GM will sell shuttered Lordstown, Ohio plant to electric truck maker Workhorse Joey Sharp poses on Match Day with his fiance, Talley Cook, when medical students learn where they have matched to complete their residency training. Photo by Jack Kearse. Joey Sharp grew up around the corner from Emory, graduating from Decaturs Lakeside High School and going on to attend the University of Georgia, but his choice to attend medical school was inspired by experiences far beyond his home state. I grew up the child of a nurse practitioner and physician-epidemiologist at CDC, but it was not until college that I developed my own independent interest in public health and medicine," he explains. "After spending time working on community-based HIV treatment delivery projects in South Africa, I realized that I wanted to attend a medical school with a commitment to serving both their local community and the global community. Sharp found evidence of that dual commitment at Emory. Growing up in Atlanta I knew the vital role that Grady Memorial Hospital plays in the city and largely fell in love with Emory because of the opportunity to learn and care for patients at Grady. I also knew that the faculty was outstanding, there was a strong affiliation with Emorys Rollins School of Public Health and CDC and I was excited about the 18-month pre-clinical curriculum, says Sharp, who is graduating summa cum laude. Throughout the pre-clinical years of the medical school program Sharp helped to organize two student-run clinics for homeless men in downtown Atlanta. He traveled to Dharamsala, India, with a group of classmates to take classes on Tibetan medicine and hike in the foothills of the Himalayas. And during his fourth year, he spent a month on the wards of the national referral hospital in Uganda. But as much as he enjoys traveling, Sharp has also developed an even deeper affection for Atlanta and the Southeast during medical school. Ive come to love the diverse cosmopolitan city that can feel both like a small town and like the entire world is right down the street, he says, though he jokes that it may take a while to get there during rush hour. When he has time to venture outside the city, Sharp is active in Emorys wilderness medicine club, which led to a newfound passion for kayaking. Last year he even progressed to the point of paddling the Chattooga, considered a class IV or advanced river. Making his match Along with his classmates, Sharp participated in the national residency matching program this past March, hoping to stay at Emory for internal medicine residency because of the incredible clinical training in a variety of hospitals, the outstanding faculty and mentors, and the great residents. On March 15, Match Day, he learned that hed matched at Emory in internal medicine, and he hopes to pursue a fellowship in infectious diseases after residency. Between Grady, Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown, and the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, I know that I will feel comfortable practicing in any clinical environment after finishing residency, he says. Reflecting on the years leading up to residency, Sharp explains that from doing compressions during my first code in the operating room to holding the hand of a dying patient without family, medical school, regardless of the school, is full of formative experiences that are etched into your memory forever. However, Emory enabled me to have many unique experiences both within medicine and outside of health care. Donald Trump has shown little interest in removing the steel and aluminium tariffs he imposed more than a year ago despite growing evidence Americans are paying a hefty price for these tariffs and increasing pressure from Republicans in Congress to remove them. US consumers and businesses are paying more than $900,000 (690,750) a year for every job saved or created by Mr Trump steel tariffs, according to calculations by experts at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. The cost is more than 13 times the typical salary of a steelworker, according to Labour Department data, and it is similar to other economists' estimates that Mr Trump's tariffs on washing machines are costing consumers $815,000 per job created. "It's very high. It's arresting," said Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute who did the steel tariff cost calculation. "The reason it's so high is that steel is a very capital intensive industry. There are not many workers." Mr Trump has said repeatedly that the metals tariffs are necessary for national security, for good-paying jobs and for leverage in trade negotiations. There was hope among Republicans and business leaders that Mr Trump would remove the tariffs - at least on Canada and Mexico - once the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement negotiations were done. But the tariffs remain, a warning sign for Chinese leaders who want Mr Trump to remove his tariffs on their country's products as part of the deal the two sides are currently negotiating. Supporters of Mr Trump's tariffs, such as the Alliance for American Manufacturing, counter that more than 12,700 good-paying jobs have been created or saved at steel and aluminium factories since the president put this policy in place in March 2018. They also point to substantial amounts of investment in US metal mills that should benefit the nation for years to come, including $1bn that was just announced at a US Steel plant outside Pittsburgh. Story continues "Congrats to @U_S_Steel for investing $1+ BILLION in America's most INNOVATIVE steel mill. 232 Tariffs make Pennsylvania and USA more prosperous/secure by bringing Steel and Aluminum industries BACK. Tariffs are working. Pittsburgh is again The Steel City. USA economy is BOOMING!" Mr Trump tweeted last week. Many economists and business leaders point out that jobs in steel-using industries outnumber those in steel production by about 80 to 1, according to experts at Harvard University and the University of California, Davis. Mr Trump has claimed other countries are paying the tariff bill, but evidence shows the tariffs are taxes paid by Americans. US companies that buy metals are either absorbing higher costs or passing them along to consumers. General Motors and Ford said Mr Trump's tariffs have cost them a billion dollars each. "The consumer pays for this in the end. They just don't always recognise it," said James Knott Jr, chief executive of Riverdale Mills Corporation in Northbridge, Massachusetts, which makes wire mesh products for everything from fences to commercial fishing nets. "These 232 tariffs protect my foreign competition rather than protecting me." Raw steel prices surged after Mr Trump put 25 per cent tariffs on imported steel on some countries in March and then expanded the tariffs to most countries in June, including Canada, Mexico and the European Union. The result is that domestic steel prices have been higher than foreign ones, boosting profits for US steel mills but putting US manufacturers that use steel like Riverdale at a disadvantage to European and Chinese competitors. Riverdale is absorbing the tariff costs for now, but Mr Knott Jr said it forced him to cut costs elsewhere. He ended up reducing his 200-person workforce by 50 people. He did it via attrition - simply not filling vacancies after people left - but it is hampering him at a time when he says business should be thriving in a strong economy. Republicans in Congress are growing increasingly vocal in their insistence that Mr Trump remove the steel and aluminium tariffs, at least on Canada and Mexico, which are major feeders of metals to the United States. Some GOP senators are threatening not to approve Mr Trump's USMCA agreement until the tariffs on US neighbours are removed. "If these tariffs aren't lifted, USMCA is dead. There is no appetite in Congress to debate USMCA with these tariffs in place," wrote senator Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, last week in a Wall Street Journal opinion piece. Tom Gibson, president of the American Iron and Steel Institute, said Mr Trump's tariffs are about righting years of foreign nations like China undercutting US steel production. He points out that US steel mills are now running at more than 80 per cent capacity, a level not seen in over a decade and that imports have fallen from 29 per cent a year ago to 20 per cent now. "The steel tariffs implemented by the president last year have enabled steelmakers to begin to recover from the historic import surges that devastated the industry a few years ago," Mr Gibson said. "The tariffs are working, but now is not the time to lift them." But evidence is growing that the metals tariffs are starting to bite. Last year, US manufacturing companies went on a hiring spree, adding the most new employees in more than two decades as the good economy caused demand to rise. But since the start of the year, manufacturing job growth has cooled. From February to April, US manufacturers added 12,000 net new manufacturing jobs, the weakest gains in the sector since before Mr Trump took office. Mr Hufbauer and Euijin Jung of the Peterson Institute calculated that every steel job saved is costing US consumers over $900,000 because US companies have been paying about 10 per cent more for steel since Mr Trump's tariffs went into effect. The total additional cost to the economy is about $11.5bn a year. There is debate among economists about how many jobs have truly been created or saved because of Mr Trump's tariffs, but Mr Hufbauer and Mr Jung decided to take the Alliance for American Manufacturing's figure for 12,700, which works out to over $900,000 a job. AAM said about 9,300 of those jobs are steel alone, which means the cost could be more than $1.2m per steel job. Supporters of tariffs counter that the US Treasury is receiving some revenue from the tariffs and that the longer the tariffs remain in place the more the domestic industry will thrive. The Washington Post Donald Trumps businesses lost a total of more than $1bn from 1985 to 1994, enabling him to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years, the New York Times reported on Tuesday. The newspaper, which said it obtained printouts from Trumps official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts, found that Trumps core businesses, including casinos, hotels and apartment buildings, lost $1.17bn over a decade. Trump posted losses in excess of $250m in both 1990 and 1991, according to the records, which appeared to be more than double any other individual US taxpayer in an annual IRS sampling of high-income earners. The New York Times report comes amid a fresh battle between Democrats in Congress and the Trump administration over the release of the presidents tax returns. Related: Trump tax returns: Mnuchin says Treasury will not comply with release deadline On Monday, the US treasury secretary, Steven Mnuchin, refused a request by the congressman Richard Neal, the Democratic chairman of the House ways and means committee, for Trumps tax returns. Democrats want Trumps tax data as part of their investigations of possible conflicts of interest posed by his continued ownership of extensive business interests, even as he serves as president. Responding to the New York Times revelations, Charles Harder, a lawyer for the president, said the tax information was highly inaccurate. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump broke with a decades-old precedent by refusing to release his tax returns as a presidential candidate in 2016 or since being elected, saying he could not do so while his taxes were being audited. Trumps former personal attorney, Michael Cohen, testified on Capitol Hill earlier this year that he did not believe the presidents taxes were, in fact, under audit. The IRS has also said being under audit does not bar people from making their tax returns public. Trump, a real estate magnate who turned over the running of his businesses to his sons after his election in 2016, touted his business acumen and negotiating skills on the campaign trail. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump's businesses lost a total of more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, according to the New York Times, which said it obtained printouts from Trump's official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts. The newspaper said Trump posted losses in excess of $250 million in both 1990 and 1991, which appeared to be more than double any other individual U.S. taxpayer in an annual IRS sampling of high-income earners. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years, the Times said. Over the 10 years, Trump's core businesses, including casinos, hotels and apartment buildings, lost $1.17 billion, according to the newspaper. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Times quoted a lawyer for the president, Charles Harder, as saying the tax information was "highly inaccurate." Trump, a real estate magnate who turned over the running of his businesses to his sons after his election in 2016, touted his business acumen and negotiating skills on the campaign trail. Trump broke with a decades-old precedent by refusing to release his tax returns as a presidential candidate in 2016 or since being elected, saying he could not do so while his taxes were being audited. On Monday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin refused a request by the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee for Trump's tax returns. Democrats want Trump's tax data as part of their investigations of possible conflicts of interest posed by his continued ownership of extensive business interests, even as he serves as president. (Reporting by Eric Beech; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) WASHINGTON, May 7 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump's businesses lost a total of more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, according to the New York Times, which said it obtained printouts from Trump's official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts. The newspaper said Trump posted losses in excess of $250 million in both 1990 and 1991, which appeared to be more than double any other individual U.S. taxpayer, based on IRS data. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years, the Times said. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump, a real estate magnate who turned over the running of his businesses to his sons after his election in 2016, touted his business acumen and negotiating skills on the campaign trail. Trump broke with a decades-old precedent by refusing to release his tax returns as a presidential candidate in 2016 or since being elected, saying he could not do so while his taxes were being audited. (Reporting by Eric Beech; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) A tweet by President Donald Trump sent shares of penny stock Workhorse(AMPD) soaring Wednesday. Shares of the Ohio-based automaker, which makes electric vehicles, jumped more than 214%. The stock closed at $2.65 after opening at 82 cents on Wednesday. Workhorse has a market value of just $173 million. In a tweet Wednesday, the president said that General Motors CEO Mary Barra informed him that GM would sell its shuttered Lordstown manufacturing plant to Workhorse to build electric trucks. GM later clarified that it is still in talks about a potential sale of the Warren, Ohio-based plant. Trading in stocks below a dollar is often a risky business because of potential for outsized moves. Workhorse has had an average daily volume of 345,127 shares over the last month. By the closing bell on Wednesday, its trading volume was up to 45.9 million shares. Analysts at Cowen said the Trump tweet was behind the surge. The tweet crashed the company's website, which was still inaccessible about three hours after the Trump mention. Cowen also said Trump's comments raised speculation that "Workhorse is likely to be a vendor for the US Postal Service program." "Based on media reports and comments from the US Postal Service, testing for the next generation vehicle is done and a request for production is due later this year," Cowen analyst Jeffrey Osborne said in a note to clients Wednesday. Workhorse told CNBC it was one of the finalists being considered for the postal service contract but would not comment further. "We are pleased with this development, but note the tweet from Trump is incredibly vague as it relates to financial ramifications for Workhorse," Osborne said. GM's Lordstown assembly plant shut down in March in an effort by the automaker to avoid making the same financial mistakes that sent it into bankruptcy in 2009. Trump has blasted GM's decision to close the plant, which produced more than 16 million vehicles over a span of several decades. Story continues Workhorse manufactures electric delivery and utility vehicles. It also makes a carbon-fiber, helicopter-type flying vehicle called the SureFly Octocopter. "This potential agreement creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community," Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said in a press release Wednesday. CNBC's Ashley Turner contributed reporting. House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler said his committee has no choice but to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress Wednesday because the president must not be permitted to operate a lawless administration and become a king.You cannot have a government in which the president can conceal all information about his own wrongdoing and about anything else, Nadler told CNN Wednesday. He wants to make himself a king and Congress cannot permit that. We can not allow Donald Trump and his minions to convert a democratic government into what amounts to a monarchy where Congress elected by the people has no real role, Nadler said. The House Judiciary Committee plans to vote Wednesday on holding Barr in contempt for failing to provide lawmakers with a fully unredacted version of Special Counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian election meddling and whether President Trump obstructed justice. The vote comes amid what Democrats have said is a Constitutional crisis pitting the Trump administration against Congress. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that Barr should be held in contempt, and impeaching the attorney general is on the table. She again mentioned that contempt of Congress was one of the impeachment articles against former President Richard Nixon, but said House committees have to continue their investigation before they consider Trumps impeachment. Impeachment is a very divisive course of action to take; we shouldnt do it for passion or bias, it has to be about the presentation of fact, Pelosi said at a Washington Post event Wednesday. Barr on Tuesday night raised the stakes in his clash with Nadler threatening to ask Trump to invoke executive privilege to head off the committees demands. Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd wrote to Nadler requesting that a subpoena for the full report be held in abeyance and that the panel delay its contempt vote pending a determination from the White House on the matter of executive privilege. Story continues But Nadler said on Wednesday that the contempt vote will go forward. Barr missed a deadline on Monday to comply with the Judiciary panel subpoena for the full Mueller report. After Nadler scheduled a vote to hold Barr in contempt, the Justice Department agreed to hold further talks Tuesday on the dispute. Last week, the attorney general refused to show up for a Judiciary hearing in a protest over the ground rules for questioning. The House Intelligence Committee is also pursuing the unredacted Mueller report. The panels ranking Republican, Devin Nunes, joined Chairman Adam Schiff in threatening to subpoena the report if the Justice Department hasnt complied with its request. Trump and his Republican allies are trying to move past the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell calling it case closed in a floor speech Tuesday. At the same time, the administration has been rebuffing House Democrats demands for testimony and documents, with Trump saying last month that were fighting all the subpoenas. More must-read stories from Fortune: This proposed legislation could light up the pot business Why Americans are still waiting on Congress for disaster relief What exactly is ranked-choice voting? Bill and Melinda Gates top Fortunes 2019 Worlds Greatest Leaders list Get up to speed on your morning commute with Fortunes CEO Daily newsletter ANKARA, May 8 (Reuters) - Turkey's main opposition party said on Wednesday it asked authorities to annul last year's national elections as well as elections in March for Istanbul mayor and other local posts, two days after the election board ruled to re-run the mayoral vote. On Monday, the High Election Board (YSK) ordered a re-run of the Istanbul mayoral election won by the main opposition, citing irregularities in the appointment of polling station officials, after an appeal by President Tayyip Erdogan's AK Party. Voters cast four different votes in the March 31 elections, electing district administrators, mayors, municipal councils, and local officials. Of those four votes, the YSK ruled to annul only the Istanbul mayoral result, which the AKP lost. The Republican People's Party (CHP) appealed for all four of the votes and last year's June 24 presidential and general votes to be annulled, saying that polling station officials had been appointed in the same way for both elections. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by Dominic Evans) Millions of self-employed Brits could be in trouble when its time to retire. Photo: Christian Langballe/Unsplash Self-employed Brits are headed towards a pension crisis, as they cant afford to save for retirement. Research by Fidelity Investments has found two thirds (62%) of self-employed Brits have never paid into a pension scheme, compared to just a third (32%) of employed people. This means millions of taxi drivers, hairdressers, plumbers, electricians, photographers, writers and small business owners among others across the nation are being left behind when it comes to saving for the future. READ MORE: Seven-step guide to being self-employed In the UK, under automatic enrolment, it is compulsory for employers to offer eligible workers a workplace pension. Every employee who earns at least 10,000 with their employer is automatically enrolled into the pension scheme, requiring a minimum contribution to be made every month from both the employer and the employee. Total minimum contributions currently stand at 8%, of which 3% must be paid by the employer. Self-employed workers, however, miss out on receiving a workplace pension and the employer contributions that come with it. Whats more, three in 10 (28%) self-employed Brits currently have no savings for the future at all. Of these people, more than two thirds (70%) said it is because they simply cannot afford to put money away for retirement. READ MORE: Do you have any rights if youre self-employed? However, another 8% said it was because they dont know the best way to save. Two in five (39%) of self-employed workers told Fidelity they did not know what a self-invested personal pension (SIPP) a personal pension but with more flexibility even is. But, unsurprisingly, self-employed women have very different experiences to self-employed men. READ MORE: Tax deductions if youre self-employed Not only are men 14% more likely to have a private pension than women, they are 5% more likely to have a workplace pension from a previous employer reaffirming that the gender pay gap is still a problem in the UK. As a result, two thirds (61%) of women said they arent saving enough for retirement, while a third (34%) said do not put away money for the future including a pension on a regular basis. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. border officers apprehended nearly 99,000 people crossing the U.S. southern border in April, the highest figure since 2007, the government said on Wednesday, as Trump administration officials decried what they call a humanitarian and security crisis. The steady increase in migrant arrivals, which has been building over the past several months, is driven by a growing number of children and families, especially from Central America. Many of the individuals surrender to border officials and request asylum in the United States because they fear violence and persecution in their home countries. U.S. President Donald Trump has grown increasingly frustrated with the rising number of Central American migrants attempting to cross the southern border, and his ire has been directed at his own officials, Congress and Latin American countries, which he says have not done enough to stop their citizens from traveling to the United States. Carla Provost, the top U.S. Border Patrol official, called the situation an "unprecedented border security and humanitarian crisis along our southwest border" in testimony to a Senate committee on Wednesday, echoing previous statements by Trump administration officials. The administration has repeatedly asked Congress to change immigration law so that the government can indefinitely detain families who cross the border without authorization, arguing that current limitations on the detention of children serve as a magnet for migrants. Border agents apprehended 98,977 people at the southern border in April, according to the data, a nearly 7 percent increase from the number apprehended in March and the highest one-month figure since April 2007, when more than 104,000 people were apprehended. More than 68 percent of those apprehended were children and people traveling as families. In April 2018, the same category made up slightly more than one-third of southern border arrests. Border officials deemed a further 10,167 people "inadmissible," a 6.6 percent drop from the previous month. That category includes people who present themselves for legal admission at a port of entry but are turned away, and people who seek asylum at ports of entry. Trump's frustration with continued migrant crossings resulted in the resignation last month of Kirstjen Nielsen as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, part of a broader shake-up of senior immigration officials. (Reporting by Yeganeh Torbati; Editing by Peter Cooney) LONDON (Reuters) - The United States expects every country will work to take back their citizens who fought for Islamic State in Syria, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday during a visit to Britain. Earlier this year Britain removed the citizenship of a teenager who traveled to join Islamic State. The case illustrated the difficulties Western capitals are facing as they try to work out what to do with battle-hardened foreign jihadist fighters, and their wives and children. Asked during a news conference with British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt whether he was frustrated by Britain's reluctance to take back its foreign fighters, Pompeo said: "We have an expectation that every country will work to take back their foreign fighters and continue to hold those foreign fighters, we think that is essential." U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Britain, France and Germany to take back more than 800 captured Islamic State fighters and put them on trial. Pompeo said he discussed the issue with Iraqi leaders during a visit to Baghdad on Tuesday, and countries should work together to ensure that the West would "never have to fight these same terrorists again". "We have rounded them up, they are now contained and they need to continue to be contained so they cannot present additional risk to anyone anywhere in the world," he said. (Reporting by Kylie MacLellan; Editing by William Schomberg) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States is planning to impose further sanctions on Iran 'very soon', a senior White House official said on Wednesday, as Tehran announced it was scaling back some curbs to its nuclear programme. Tim Morrison, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Weapons of Mass Destruction and Biodefense, told a conference that Washington was not 'done' with imposing sanctions on Iran. "Expect more sanctions soon. Very soon," he said. (Reporting by Jonathan Landay; Writing by Humeyra Pamuk; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on Wednesday finalized a rule that will require direct-to-consumer television advertisements for prescription drugs to include the list price. The list price should be included if it is equal to or greater than $35 for a month's supply or the usual course of therapy. "Patients have the right to know the prices of healthcare services, and CMS is serious about empowering patients with this information across-the-board," CMS Administrator Seema Verma said in a statement. (Reporting by Ankur Banerjee in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila) By David Morgan WASHINGTON, May 8 (Reuters) - The U.S. House Judiciary Committee prepared to move forward on Wednesday with a contempt citation against Attorney General William Barr for defying a congressional subpoena demanding access to the full, unredacted Mueller report. In the latest escalation of a battle between Democrats and Republican President Donald Trump, the panel was set to meet at 10 a.m. EDT (1400 GMT) and vote on a resolution recommending that the full House of Representatives find Barr in contempt of Congress. Committee staff and Justice Department officials worked behind the scenes in hopes of a deal to avert the proceedings. "Still scheduled," House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler told reporters when asked if the committee vote would go forward as planned, following talks with Justice Department officials that made little headway on Tuesday. Barr released a redacted version of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on his 22-month investigation into Russian election meddling in the 2016 presidential campaign. Nadler subpoenaed the full document and underlying evidence, saying the material is necessary for lawmakers to determine whether Trump obstructed justice by trying to upend the Mueller probe. Barr missed two subpoena deadlines for turning over the material, the latest on Monday. "We remain unanimously determined on our side of the aisle to get the unredacted report, as we've demanded," Representative Jamie Raskin, a Democrat on Nadler's committee, told reporters. The redacted Mueller report details extensive contacts between Trump's 2016 campaign and Moscow, but did not find there was a conspiracy between Moscow and the campaign. The report also describes actions Trump took to try to impede Mueller's investigation. The fight over the full report is just one battle in a growing struggle between Trump and the Democrats probing him, his business interests and his administration that seems to be headed inexorably for the courts, presenting political risks for both sides headed into the 2020 presidential and congressional elections. Story continues On Tuesday, the Trump administration stymied a separate effort by House Judiciary Committee Democrats to subpoena records from former White House counsel Don McGahn, directing him not to provide the documents sought by the panel. McGahn was a star witness in Mueller's Russian investigation, as well as Trump's subsequent attempts to impede the probe. Mueller's report said McGahn told investigators that Trump unsuccessfully pressured him to remove Mueller and then asked him to deny that Trump had done so. The accounts are based partly on the documents sought by House Democrats. The Trump administration has refused to cooperate with congressional probes in at least a half-dozen instances, including Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin's decision on Monday to deny a request for Trump's tax returns from the Democratic chairman of the House tax committee. But in a rare show of bipartisanship, Democrats and Republicans on the House Intelligence Committee pressed the Justice Department and the FBI, in an April 25 letter, to turn over an unredacted copy of the Mueller report and "all classified and unclassified" evidence relating to foreign spying or counterintelligence. Congressional officials circulated copies of the letter on Tuesday. One official said the panel would soon begin a "compulsory" process to obtain the material unless there was more cooperation from the Justice Department. (Reporting by David Morgan; editing by Jonathan Oatis) By Roberta Rampton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States is lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against President Nicolas Maduro in an action it hopes will lead other Maduro military allies to follow suit, Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday. An attempted uprising last week led by Juan Guaido, the opposition leader backed by the United States and other Western countries, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of U.S. sanctions against his government. Pence's speech was the first look at how the Trump administration plans to recalibrate its strategy to support Guaido. While U.S. officials have previously dangled what they called "off ramps" for those hit with sanctions who abandon Maduro, this is the first time the Trump administration has made good on its pledge. The Treasury Department said it removed sanctions on Manuel Cristopher, who was the head of the South American country's Sebin intelligence service until Tuesday. Maduro had accused Cristopher, whose whereabouts are unknown, of conspiring to help Guaido's uprising by releasing opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez, who was under a house arrest enforced by Sebin. "We hope the action that our nation is taking today will encourage others to follow the example of General Cristopher Figuera and members of the military who have also stepped forward," Pence said in an address to the Americas Society at the State Department. Arguing that Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate, Guaido invoked Venezuela's constitution in January to declare himself interim president. But Guaido has thus far failed to entice high-level military defections from Maduro, who has said Guaido is a puppet of Washington. Maduro has sought to show that the military remains on his side, but opposition leaders and U.S. officials have said that support is tenuous. The United States has blacklisted more than 150 Venezuelan officials and businesses tied to Maduro. Removing Cristopher from the list will mean he can access any blocked assets and property he has in the United States and do business with U.S. individuals, companies and banks. SHIFT TO CARROTS U.S. President Donald Trump and his top officials have taken a hard line against Maduro and his allies in Cuba, Russia and China, insisting that he must leave and investing significant diplomatic and economic capital in intervening in the crisis. Trump has repeatedly refused to rule out the use of military force, though he has emphasized he wants a peaceful transition even as the Pentagon has prepared contingency options for consideration. Pence offered other carrots in his Venezuela address, announcing that the USNS Comfort military hospital ship will deploy to the Caribbean, Central America and South America in June. The five-month mission will help relieve pressure on countries that have taken in large numbers of people fleeing Venezuela, the Pentagon said. Last year, the hospital ship cared for Venezuelan refugees and others as it stopped in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador and Honduras. Pence also pledged that the United States would work with other nations and lenders on trade finance and credit to create jobs and fight poverty in Venezuela once Maduro departs office. But his speech also pointed at sticks to come, condemning Venezuela's pro-Maduro Supreme Court for becoming "a political tool for a regime that usurps democracy, indicts political prisoners, and promotes authoritarianism." In 2017, the Treasury Department imposed sanctions on the court's president, Maikel Moreno, and the seven principal members of its constitutional chamber. It is now preparing sanctions for the 25 remaining members of the court, a senior U.S. administration official told Reuters on Monday. The court on Tuesday asked Venezuela's Constituent Assembly, a pro-Maduro legislative body, to determine whether to open criminal proceedings against seven opposition lawmakers. The court also would be responsible for signing off on any warrant for an arrest of Guaido - a step that U.S. officials have warned would result in severe consequences. "Let me take this opportunity to be very clear: the safety and security of President Juan Guaido and his family are a priority for the United States of America," Pence said. (Reporting by Roberta Rampton; Addiitonal reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart in Washington and Brian Ellsworth in Caracas; Editing by Alistair Bell and Rosalba O'Brien) By Mark Hosenball WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed one of the president's sons, Donald Trump Jr., to answer questions about his contacts with Russia, two congressional sources said on Wednesday. The panel, which along with the Senate is controlled by Trump's fellow Republicans, wants to question Trump Jr. about testimony he gave to the Senate Judiciary Committee in September 2017 which was subsequently contradicted in public testimony by former Trump attorney Michael Cohen, one of the sources said. The committee is one of the few in the Senate that has been conducting serious investigations related to Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Trump's son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner has appeared before the panel at least twice. During his Judiciary Committee appearance, the source said, Trump Jr. was asked about the extent of his involvement in a plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow. "Like I said, I was peripherally aware of it, but most of my knowledge has been gained since as it relates to hearing about it over the last few weeks," Trump Jr. told the committee, according to an official transcript. In testimony before the House of Representatives Oversight Committee, however, Cohen, said he briefed Trump family members "approximately 10 times" about the Moscow Trump Tower project, and that Trump Jr. and his sister Ivanka were among the family members he briefed. Cohen has also told Congress that some reimbursement checks issued to him for hush money payments to an adult film star who said she had an affair with President Trump were signed by Trump Jr, as well as the Trump Organization's chief financial officer. Cohen this week began serving a federal prison sentence for tax evasion and campaign finance violations. In his report on Russian meddling in the U.S. presidential election in 2016, Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team of prosecutors reported that there was a reasonable argument that Trump Jr. violated campaign finance laws. But Mueller's team concluded they did not believe they could obtain a conviction. A lawyer for Trump Jr. did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Wednesday. A Senate Intelligence Committee spokeswoman declined to discuss details of its own long-running investigation into Russia's election interference. Along with senior campaign adviser Paul Manafort and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Trump Jr. participated in a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower with Natalia Veselnitskaya, a Russian lawyer who they believed had damaging information on Hillary Clinton, Trumps Democratic opponent in the election. At one point, Trump Jr. sent Rob Goldstone, a publicist involved in setting up the meeting, an email declaring: "If it's what you say, I love it ..." But he later tweeted that all Veselnitskaya wanted to talk about was adoption policy and an anti-Russian U.S. sanctions law. In his report, Mueller detailed extensive contacts between Trump's election campaign and Russian operatives, but did not find evidence of a conspiracy. Trump Jr. has used his Twitter feed to condemn the investigations and media coverage of his father, tweeting on Wednesday: "Democrats are not interested in the truth, they just want to keep the Hoax going forever. The games need to stop." "Investigate the investigators!" he tweeted on Tuesday. (Reporting by Mark Hosenball; Editing by David Alexander, Chris Reese and James Dalgleish) DUBAI, May 8 (Reuters) - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) dismissed claims by U.N. human rights experts that prominent pro-democracy campaigner Ahmed Mansoor may be suffering treatment amounting to torture, state news agency WAM reported on Wednesday. Mansoor, jailed for 10 years in 2018 for criticizing the government on social media, began a hunger strike on March 17, but fellow campaigners said this week he had ended it. They say his family has not been able to visit regularly to check on his health or strike status. The U.N. experts said on Tuesday they were "gravely concerned" for his physical well-being and urged UAE authorities to give him adequate medical care, ensure detention conditions met minimum U.N. standards and either offer him a retrial or release him. The WAM report, citing a statement from the UAE's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, dismissed the U.N. claims as "false and unsubstantiated" and aimed at "distorting and falsifying facts." It said Mansoor was being served regular meals, underwent medical examinations in April, was generally in good health, and was allowed regular family visits. "Mansour was twice visited by his family in April 2019 and his family is fully aware of his medical condition," it added. Mansoor, an electrical engineer and poet, was among five activists convicted of insulting the UAE's rulers in 2011. They were pardoned the same year. He was arrested again in March 2017 at his home in the emirate of Ajman, on charges of publishing false information and rumors, promoting a sectarian and hate-inciting agenda, and using social media to "harm national unity and social harmony and damage the country's reputation." In May 2018 he was sentenced to 10 years in prison and fined 1 million dirhams ($270,000). (Reporting by Dubai newsroom; editing by John Stonestreet) By Sai Sachin Ravikumar, Aditi Shah and Aditya Kalra MUMBAI/NEW DELHI (Reuters) - In 2016, Rajesh Raut started driving an Uber taxi in Mumbai, hoping he could earn more than the $215 he received each month for making flatbreads at a roadside stall. Thanks to attractive cash incentives offered as Uber lured drivers in one of its biggest markets outside the United States, Raut's monthly earnings jumped to $1,280. He managed his car loan and home rent with ease, and sent more money than before back to his family in a village in eastern India. But as Uber slashed incentives, Raut's earnings dwindled swiftly. His income dropped to about $540 a month this year and he defaulted on his taxi loan payments. Deciding after an accident that he couldn't afford to fix the vehicle, he quit Uber and now his monthly income, from a new job driving a truck, has crashed to $200. "There is no benefit in driving for Uber ... my life was much better just as a cook," said 26-year-old Raut. Former Uber India executives say incentives were sharply cut in early 2017 because of growing pressure from the U.S. head office to improve financial performance ahead of an initial public offering (IPO), which values it at as much as $90 billion. Uber is set to debut on Friday on Wall Street. In interviews in the metropolises of Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru, more than 35 drivers said discontent against Uber was growing. Mounting debt from taxi loans was a key concern. Many drivers took loans to buy cabs, while some leased cars from the companies themselves. To be sure, many drivers from Uber are still earning more than they could get in other blue-collar jobs in India. The national minimum wage in India is only about $2.50 a day. "It's not that we are making a fortune, but it does give us a livelihood," said Prakash K.C., who earns around 38,000 rupees ($548) a month driving an Uber in Bengaluru city. Uber has acknowledged the risk of unhappiness among its drivers. "As we aim to reduce driver incentives to improve our financial performance, we expect driver dissatisfaction will generally increase," it said in its IPO filing. Story continues DOUBLING DOWN ON INDIA Uber currently operates in 40 Indian cities and the country accounts for an estimated 11 percent of its global rides. Uber said last year it would double down on India investments after it sold its Southeast Asia business to Singapore's Grab Holdings. Grab does not operate taxis in India. Uber started its India operations in 2013, three years after local rival Ola launched a ride-hailing service. Both are backed by Japan's Softbank Group Corp. Ola, which operates in 125 cities in India, last year said it plans to go public in four years. Both gave attractive cash incentives to drivers and offered very low fares to riders when they started operations. It wasn't uncommon for Uber drivers to boast of monthly earnings of 100,000 rupees, which is the typical salary of a junior multinational executive in the country. There were perks too. In a January 2017 company video, Uber drivers are seen entering a luxury hotel in Chandigarh city, where guards open their taxi doors and welcome them. Sitting and smiling with their families in a large hall with chandeliers, some of the drivers receive prizes such as an Apple iPhone, holiday package and a car. In early 2017, the company slashed incentives by around 30 percent overnight, said three former Uber India executives, who declined to be named. The total incentive cut in recent years may well be far higher: research firm RedSeer Consulting estimates online taxi operators driver incentives, as a percentage of gross booking totals, fell from 60 percent in 2015 to 18 percent last year. That came at a time when prices of diesel, used in many taxis in India, surged by about 30 percent. One of the former Uber executives told Reuters the company should have taken more care as drivers were its most important stakeholder. The decision to cut incentives sharply had disappointed several members of Uber's India team back then, the executive added. LOWER INCENTIVES Last October, hundreds of drivers went on strike in Mumbai and New Delhi, demanding higher fares to meet rising fuel costs. Drivers say they ended the strike as taxi firms assured some fare concessions, but more needs to be done. Some Uber drivers in the United States and Britain have called for a strike on Wednesday in protest against what they call low pay. An Uber spokesman told Reuters drivers were at the heart of its service and the company was committed to ensuring drivers get sustainable earnings, even though some were making less than they did three years ago. "Uber continues to invest heavily in the well being of drivers and their families," the spokesman said, adding it was helping them access life and health insurance, as well as loans. Ola did not respond to a request for comment. To mark its IPO, Uber says it plans to pay $300 million to more than 1.1 million drivers, a so-called "appreciation reward". Qualified drivers in the United States, Uber said in its filing, will get $100 to $10,000 based on trips taken. The Uber spokesman said thousands of drivers in India earned the reward, but did not provide an exact number. A driver in New Delhi showed his Uber app that said he had received an $84 reward, while another in the city, Arvind Kumar, received $165. "There are a lot of troubles, this amount is nothing ... all my dreams are broken," said Kumar, who earns half the $1,432 per month he made five years ago. He said the drop in earnings had scuttled plans to provide his children with private-school education. (Reporting by Sai Sachin Ravikumar, Aditi Shah and Aditya Kalra; Additional reporting by Chandini Monnappa in Bengaluru; Writing by Aditya Kalra; Editing by Martin Howell and Raju Gopalakrishnan) Uber and Lyft drivers staged protests in some major cities Wednesday to call attention to wages and work issues, but travelers didn't seem to have much trouble finding a ride. In both New York and Los Angeles, small groups of drivers picketed as scores of Uber and Lyft cars passed by, staying in service despite boisterous chants imploring them to turn off the smartphone apps they use to pick up passengers. The protest came against the backdrop of the two ride-hailing giants making a play for investors through stock offerings, with billions of dollars in play, at a time when their drivers say they are underpaid. Lyft recently started selling shares to the public, and Uber is on deck. The protests varied by city. In Los Angeles, Rideshare Drivers United urged a 24-hour shutdown starting at 12:01 a.m. PT Wednesday. At Los Angeles International Airport, there were about two dozen protesters in the early morning, but judging from the scores of Uber and Lyft cars passing by, it didn't appear to be having much effect on service. Uber and Lyft drivers in some cities across the country turned off their apps to strike for higher wages and benefits.Los Angeles, Calif. A check of Lyft and Ubers apps about 2 miles from the airport showed an abundance of cars remaining in service. In the Big Apple, the New York Taxi Workers Alliance called for a work stoppage from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. ET. Some participated in a caravan over the Brooklyn Bridge, and about a dozen protesters rallied near Wall Street. Bhairavi Desai, executive director of the alliance, said drivers are fed up with being treated like theyre expendable and liabilities. There are several Ubers available within blocks of where todays #UberLyftStrike was set to take place in Long Island City. pic.twitter.com/zwqsCBWuVz Dalvin Brown (@dalvin_brown) May 8, 2019 She also cited Ubers compensation system that awards drivers based on a per-minute and per-mile rate that doesnt correspond with how much riders spend. Story continues That rate has been frozen, so while these companies take in more money from passengers, none of it trickles down to the drivers, Desai said. A group of taxi drivers stood behind Desai chanting driving power, union power. Inder Parmar, an Uber driver since 2013, said that hes protesting because he feels that the company is exploiting its workers. I used to make $37 an hour (driving for Uber), and now I make about $9.80 per hour, Parmar said. From 2013 to 2015, he said he earned $37 an hour, or about $3 per mile. Today, Parmar said he earns $1.15 per mile. When Im on call for 12 hours, minus my expenses, I literally go home with zero dollars, Parmar said. I have to pay for my gas, car and I have to support my family. With this money I cannot survive. The most recent pay statement he showed USA TODAY was for January 2019, which was before Ubers minimum pay increased in NYC. Uber and Lyft drivers, with signs on their vehicles supporting better wages, cross the Brooklyn Bridge in a caravan of about 25 vehicles, Wednesday, May 8, 2019 in New York. The protests arrive just ahead of Uber's initial public stock offering, which is planned for Friday. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan) ORG XMIT: NYML101 New York has tried to help ride-hailing drivers by taking action in January, setting a minimum pay at $17.22 an hour after expenses. Under the new rules adopted by the commission, some 96% of drivers were expected to see a boost of $10,000 a year. Organizers in New York are demanding livable wages, a guarantee that drivers receive up to 85% of a fare and an end to workers being kicked off the platform without an investigation. Uber's guidelines state that drivers can lose access to the app if their ratings drop too low or if their cancellation rate is high. Also, drivers can immediately lose their accounts if they are reported for violence, discrimination or harassment. Uber says that some low-level offenders have an opportunity to get back on the road if they take a quality improvement test with a third party. "We are exploring ways to create an appeals process for the most contentious cases," Uber says on its website. Protesters turned out in force in San Francisco, and protests were also scheduled for cities including Boston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Chicago and Washington, D.C. At one point in the early afternoon, protesters blocked traffic on Market Street in front of company headquarters. Uber confirmed it didn't see any major shortage of ride availability and issued a statement saying it respects its drivers. Drivers are at the heart of our service, and we cant succeed without them. Well continue working to improve drivers experience for and with them, every day. Lyft didn't comment directly on the protest. On Tuesday, it issued a statement saying its drivers earn over $20 an hour on average, and most drive for the service only about 10 hours a week to supplement their regular income. Uber is seeking to raise $1 billion through its initial public offering. Lyft sold its shares to the public for the first time last month. Protesting drivers said more of their fellow workers would have joined up if they had known about the protests. "A lot of them don't know about this," said Laurel Hirschmann, 59, an Uber driver in Los Angeles. "Ninety-eight percent of the drivers are as outraged as we are." #UberLyftStrike: Commuters urged to support drivers by not using Uber, Lyft apps Ridesharing: Should you let kids ride in an Uber alone? Uber driver Jason Garcia, 51, pickets at Los Angeles International Airport. Uber and Lyft drivers in some cities across the country turned off their apps to strike for higher wages and benefits This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'With this money, I cannot survive': Uber, Lyft strike hits L.A., NYC, Boston, Chicago as drivers protest DUBLIN (Reuters) - The United Kingdom and Ireland signed a deal on Wednesday that ensures their citizens will retain the right to live and work in each other's countries after Britain leaves the European Union. The agreement secures the continuation of the Common Travel Area (CTA) that has been in place since 1922, when 26 of Ireland's 32 counties broke away from the United Kingdom to form an independent state. Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding signed on Wednesday, free movement of people between Britain and Ireland, and mutual access for citizens to social security, health and education will continue after Brexit. The CTA also enshrines a reciprocal right for citizens to vote in local and national parliamentary elections. Until now, the CTA's provisions were found in disparate pieces of legislation and bilateral administrative agreements, while some overlapped with EU rules. "The CTA is a practical demonstration of the enduring strength of the British-Irish relationship and of our people-to-people ties," said Ireland's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Coveney, who signed the deal in London with British Prime Minister Theresa May's de facto deputy David Lidington. "British citizens will continue to be able to travel freely, live, study, and work in Ireland into the future. I welcome the similar commitment and welcome of the UK Government for Irish citizens in Britain," Coveney said. (Reporting by Graham Fahy; Editing by Catherine Evans) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Britain's broadcasting watchdog has launched a formal investigation into whether a confession made by a British man and aired on China's state broadcaster broke UK broadcasting rules when shown there. The investigation relates to a complaint made by Briton Peter Humphrey and his American wife Yu Yingzeng, who were both sentenced in China in 2014 for illegally obtaining private records of Chinese citizens and selling the information to clients including drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline. Humphrey says China Central Television, which broadcast the footage via its international subsidiary China Global Television Network (CGTN), may have breached UK fairness rules by distributing what he said was a forced confession which prejudiced a subsequent trial against him. "We have decided to investigate a fairness and privacy complaint about news programs broadcast on CCTV News," a spokesperson for Ofcom said. "If we find our rules have been broken, we will take the appropriate action," the person said, declining to comment further. Representatives of CGTN could not immediately be reached for comment. The British regulator has the power to fine a broadcaster for breaching rules, and in the most severe infringements can revoke a license. Humphrey, a private investigator and former journalist, says that CCTV collaborated with police to extract, record and broadcast a confession he was forced to make long before his actual trial. Showing the footage on TV prejudiced Chinese and world public opinion against him and his wife, he argued in a complaint made to Ofcom last year. The couple were deported from China in June 2015 after their jail terms were reduced. The case was linked to an investigation of GSK in China that led to a $489 million fine against it for paying bribes to doctors to use its drugs. (Reporting by Elisabeth O'Leary; Editing by Hugh Lawson) LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Britain said Iran would face consequences if it backed away from its nuclear deal, following Tehran's announcement on Wednesday that it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear program that had been agreed under a 2015 deal with world powers. "Today's announcement from Tehran is ... an unwelcome step," junior foreign office minister Mark Field told Britain's parliament. "We are not at this stage talking about reimposing sanctions, but one has to remember that they were of course lifted in exchange for the nuclear restrictions." A year after Washington pulled out of the nuclear deal, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani unveiled measures that do not appear to violate its terms yet, but could do so in the future if Iran were to persist on the course he set out. "Should Iran cease meeting its nuclear commitments, there would of course be consequences," Field said. (Reporting by Alistair Smout, writing by David Milliken. Editing by Andrew MacAskill) Video Image: Jerome Kunkel, 18, confers with his attorney, Thomas Burns, during his hearing in Boone County Circuit Court Monday, April 1, 2019. Jerome, a senior at Assumption Academy in Walton objected to the demand of public health officials for vaccinations against chickenpox when 32 students at his small Catholic school came down with the illness this year. CINCINNATI - The high school senior who went to court to challenge a health-department restriction over chickenpox at his Walton school has come down with the illness, his lawyer said Tuesday. Christopher Wiest of Covington said Jerome Kunkel, 18, got sick with chickenpox last week, nearly two months after the Northern Kentucky health department issued its order to control an outbreak at two small parochial schools in Boone County. Hes fine. Hes a little itchy, Wiest said. In January, chickenpox broke out at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School and Assumption Academy, its high school. The schools and its church are affiliated with the Society of St. Pius X, a conservative branch of Roman Catholicism that rejects Vatican II reforms. Nearly 90 percent of the schools students have religious exemptions against vaccinations. The exemption form warns that the health department can restrict school attendance in case of an infectious disease outbreak. 'Alternative medicine' debate: Parents could face neglect charges after seeking 'alternative medical care' for toddler Measles quarantine: Scientology cruise ship quarantined in St. Lucia because of confirmed case of measles Kunkel, his classmates and their families object to the chickenpox vaccine because it is made in laboratory-generated cells taken from a fetus aborted in London in 1966. As the number of chickenpox cases grew at the schools, the health department restricted nonvaccinated and nonimmune students to prevent the spread. The department first prohibited participation in extracurricular activities, then on March 14 ordered those students to stay home from school until at least 21 days after the last case. Kunkel, an Assumption senior, sued in Boone County Circuit Court, claiming the order is a violation of his constitutionally protected exercise of religion. Two dozen other students who also had been banned from school joined Kunkels case. While typically a mild disease, chickenpox can cause complications including bacterial infections, pneumonia or encephalitis or the infection or inflammation of the brain, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The chickenpox vaccine came into regular use in 1996. Story continues Wiest noted during an April 1 hearing that the Sacred Heart community regularly celebrates Mass together and shares meals on Sundays, so school-attendance restrictions would not prevent the spread of chickenpox. Tuesday, Wiest said: About half my clients have come down with it since we filed the case. I flat-out told the moms and dads the quickest path to resolving this is having them contract chickenpox. A bout with chickenpox confers immunity to the illness. Vaccines are 'sorcery,': Texas lawmaker tells vaccine expert and pediatrician Your vaccine questions answered: Do I need a measles booster shot? Is the vaccine effective? Wednesday, the health department expressed concern about Wiests observation, pointing out that people who contract chickenpox can expose others to the virus before the disease becomes apparent with its telltale skin eruptions. Encouraging the spread of an acute infectious disease in a community demonstrates a callous disregard for the health and safety of friends, family, neighbors, and unsuspecting members of the general public, said a health department statement. "A person who has contracted chickenpox can be infectious for up to two days before experiencing the rash that is associated with the virus. Control measures, such as restricted school attendance, participation in extracurricular activities, and instructing those who have symptoms to avoid contact with others, are designed to prevent unvaccinated people who have been exposed to the virus from infecting members of the general public while they are infectious, the statement said. Judge James R. Schrand ruled against Kunkel, who appealed the decision. The Kentucky Court of Appeals has yet to decide. The school-attendance ban remains in effect. Follow Anne Saker on Twitter: @apsaker This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Unvaccinated teen banned from school during chickenpox outbreak now has the illness A Kentucky teenager who filed a lawsuit after being banned from school activities for refusing to get the chickenpox vaccine has contracted the disease, his attorney said. Jerome Kunkel, 18, whose lawsuit against the Northern Kentucky Health Department in March was rejected by a circuit judge last month, first showed signs of the disease last week. He returned to school on Wednesday, his attorney Christopher Wiest said. We knew that that was going to happen, Wiest told HuffPost of Kunkel contracting the highly contagious disease that often provides immunity after contraction. We knew that the ban was going to do nothing except spread this incident out over months instead of weeks. Kunkel had cited a religious exemption for not receiving the vaccine after chickenpox broke out at his Catholic school, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School and Assumption Academy, in Walton earlier this year. Jerome Kunkel, 18, filed a lawsuit against the Northern Kentucky Health Department after he was banned from attending school activities because he wasn't vaccinated for chickenpox. The Varicella zoster vaccine, which is administered to prevent the chickenpox virus, was derived from the cell lines of two fetuses that were aborted in the 1960s. The use of aborted fetuses is immoral and goes against his religious beliefs, Kunkel argued. This view is shared by the majority of Kunkels school, where 82 percent of the students or their parents have appealed for a religious exemption from being vaccinated, Wiest stated in his appeal to a judge. Asked how Kunkel may have contracted the disease, Wiest said he believes the high school senior got it from church activities, which he was not banned from attending. A week and a half ago he helped serve mass and I have no doubt that through that is where he contracted it, he said. About half of the 24 students that Wiest said he is representing from Kunkels school have also contracted the disease over the last couple weeks, he added. The Varicella zoster vaccine prevents more than 3.5 million cases of chickenpox each year in the U.S., as well as 9,000 hospitalizations, and 100 deaths, the CDC says. (Hailshadow via Getty Images) Nobody died, there were no complications, he said while sharing his view that the ban was meaningless since it didnt stop all interactions where transmission is likely. Story continues Its not just unconstitutional, it was also just stupid, he said. Had Kunkel, who has been out of school since March 15, been allowed to attend classes and his extracurricular activities amid the outbreak, Wiest argued that he would have contracted the disease long ago and been done with it. The Northern Kentucky Health Department in a statement on Wednesday called Wiests encouragement to have the disease spread alarming and disappointing. Wiests comments are dismissive of the severity of this virus, and his recent announcement that he is advising his clients to actively contract the virus so that they can become individually immune to it is deeply concerning to the Northern Kentucky Health Department, the department said in a statement. Encouraging the spread of an acute infectious disease in a community demonstrates a callous disregard for the health and safety of friends, family, neighbors, and unsuspecting members of the general public. Northern Kentucky Health Department It reasoned that though those who contract and survive the disease are likely to gain future immunity to it, they may also spread it to others who are more vulnerable to it, including infants, adolescents, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems. Encouraging the spread of an acute infectious disease in a community demonstrates a callous disregard for the health and safety of friends, family, neighbors, and unsuspecting members of the general public, the statement continued. It takes about two weeks for someone to develop chickenpox after exposure. They become contagious to others one to two days before a rash appears and until all of the lesions have scabbed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Each year the vaccine prevents more than 3.5 million cases, 9,000 hospitalizations, and 100 deaths in the U.S., the CDC says. Chickenpox can be serious and can lead to severe complications and death, even in healthy children, the health agencys website warns. There is no way to tell in advance how severe your childs symptoms will be. So it is not worth taking the chance of exposing your child to someone with the disease. WASHINGTON (AP) A U.S. Navy hospital ship will embark on another humanitarian mission to help countries cope with an influx of Venezuelans fleeing a deep economic and political crisis, the Trump administration announced Tuesday. The USNS Comfort will leave in June on a 5-month mission to South America, Central America and the Caribbean to help countries "overwhelmed" by the more than 3 million Venezuelan refugees who have fled in recent years, Vice President Mike Pence said. "The rising desperation in Venezuela has fueled a mass exodus, the likes of which we have never seen in the Western Hemisphere," Pence said in a speech on the Venezuelan crisis to at the Council of the Americas annual conference. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan said that before the USNS Comfort can be deployed from its homeport of Norfolk, Virginia, a staff of doctors, nurses and other medical staff have to be assembled. The Comfort's tour last fall provided medical assistance in Colombia and several other countries where most of the Venezuelan refugees have settled to escape the crisis. Pence and other Trump administration officials have warned that another 2 million people are expected to flee by the end of the year if the crisis continues in the once-prosperous nation. The Trump administration has employed increasing diplomatic and economic measures on the government of President Nicolas Maduro in hopes of persuading him to step down. The U.S. and more than 50 other countries say Maduro's re-election last year as fraudulent and that Juan Guaido, the opposition head of the National Assembly, is the legitimate president under the Venezuelan Constitution. In his speech, Pence also said the U.S. would extend sanctions to all 25 members of the Venezuelan Supreme Court if they continue to be a "political tool" of President Nicolas Maduro. The U.S. already has sanctions on about 150 officials and businesses in the country. Story continues The vice president also said the U.S. would immediately lift sanctions on Gen. Manuel Figuera, the head of the feared SEBIN intelligence agency, who broke ranks with the Maduro government during a failed uprising last week and has since disappeared. Pence repeated the message that "all options are on the table" as the administration weighs further actions. But another speaker at the conference, Rep. Eliot Engel, D-N.Y., pointed out that Venezuela is twice the size of Iraq and it would be "extremely difficult" to successfully employ military force to oust Maduro. "I've made it clear that military intervention in Venezuela must be off the table," said Engel, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Forces from Sebin, the intelligence service, are among the most feared in Venezuela - AFP The former head of Venezuelas feared intelligence service Sebin has had sanctions on him lifted by the United States, in a move designed to encourage others to follow his lead and abandon Nicolas Maduro. Mr Maduros government announced shortly afterwards that it was taking control of three private airfields, in a move widely seen as trying to stop others following the generals lead and fleeing the country. Nestor Reverol, head of public works, said the Metropolitana air field in Caracas, the airport in the town of Higuerote, and Aeropuerto Caracas, south of the capital, had been taken over to avoid illicit acts which would compromise the safety of civil aviation. Mike Pence, the US vice president, announced on Tuesday that sanctions would be lifted from General Manuel Cristopher Figuera after he resigned on April 30. You cant live in misery in a country this rich, wrote Mr Figuera, in a letter of resignation that received national attention. Mike Pence, pictured with Venezuela's interim president Juan Guaido on February 25, praised Mr Figuera for cutting ties with Mr Maduro Mr Pence, speaking in Washington, hailed Mr Figuera as an example for all other senior Venezuelan officials to follow. The United States will give sanctions relief to all those willing to step forward, stand up for the constitution, and support the rule of law, he said. Mr Figuera was placed on a list of US-sanctioned Venezuelans on February 15. The US treasury said on Tuesday that he was being rewarded for denouncing Mr Maduro. The delisting of Cristopher also shows the good faith of the United States that removal of sanctions may be available for designated persons who take concrete and meaningful actions to restore democratic order, refuse to take part in human rights abuses, speak out against abuses committed by the illegitimate Maduro regime, or combat corruption in Venezuela, it said in a statement. As a result of todays action, all property and interests in property, which had been blocked solely as a result of Cristophers designation, are unblocked and all otherwise lawful transactions involving US persons and Cristopher are no longer prohibited. Story continues Nicolas Maduro, flanked by his defence minister Vladimir Padrino, greets troops on May 2 after successfully repressing an uprising lead by Juan Guaido Mr Figuera had been head of Sebin since October 2018. He graduated from Venezuelas military academy in 1989, and served as Hugo Chavezs aide-de-camp for 12 years. In 2017 he became head of military intelligence. When he was promoted to head of Sebin, replacing Gustavo Gonzalez Lopez after a suspicious death of a Sebin agent inside a Sebin building, the opposition party Primero Justicia accused Mr Figuera himself of having a questionable past. This means more torture, more violations of human rights, and more persecution, the party said in a statement, accusing him of abuse and torture. Since Mr Figueras resignation, Mr Gonzalez Lopez has been reinstated as Sebin head. A report by a US government commission has warned of "serious" security risks from Hong Kong's plan to allow extraditions to mainland China, which has sparked protests in the financial hub. The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, which was set up by Congress to advise on the security implications of US trade with China, said the extradition bill could affect the estimated 85,000 US citizens and 1,300 US firms in Hong Kong. "The proposed changes to Hong Kong's extradition laws could create serious risks for US national security and economic interests in the territory," said the report released Tuesday. "The new arrangement would diminish Hong Kong's reputation as a safe place for US and international business operations, and could pose increased risks for US citizens and port calls in the territory," it said. The report said that the bill was part of China's "accelerating" intrusions into the rule of law in Hong Kong -- going against the "one country, two systems" promise made by Beijing before Britain handed over the colony in 1997. Hong Kong maintains a separate legal system and has historically balked at extraditions to the mainland due to China's opaque criminal justice system and its liberal use of the death penalty. But earlier this year Hong Kong's government announced plans to overhaul its extradition rules, allowing the transfer of fugitives with mainland China, Macau and Taiwan on a case-by-case basis. In response to the report, the government of the city -- known officially as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region -- said it abided by the rule of law and had long-term agreements to surrender fugitives with 20 jurisdictions, including the United States. "The current exercise is about amending local laws to enhance the HKSAR's capability in dealing with fugitives of serious criminal offences and making the HKSAR a better partner in the international fight against crime," it said in a statement. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said the request lacked a legitimate legislative purpose - Reuters Donald Trump's administration has formally refused to hand over the president's tax returns to Congress, setting up a bitter legal battle that may go all the way to the Supreme Court. Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury Secretary, wrote to the Democratic-controlled House Ways and Means Committee on Monday refusing the panel's request which he said "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose". Mr Mnuchin said he relied on the advice of the Justice Department in reaching the conclusion that the Treasury Department is "not authorised to disclose the requested returns and return information." The move, which was expected, is sure to set in motion a legal battle over Mr Trump's tax returns. The Democrats could now either issue a subpoena to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or file a lawsuit, with both options likely to lead to a protracted court battle. "I will consult with counsel and determine the appropriate response," Mr Neal said in a statement Monday. Mr Neal, who represents a district in Massachusetts, demanded access six years of Mr Trump's personal tax returns and the returns of some of his businesses in April under a law that states the IRS "shall furnish" the returns of any taxpayer to a handful of top lawmakers. He has argued that the committee is looking into the effectiveness of IRS mandatory audits of tax returns of all sitting presidents, a way to justify his claim that the panel has a potential legislative purpose. Democrats are confident in their legal justification and say Mr Trump is stalling in an attempt to punt the issue past the 2020 election. Mr Trump broke with tradition when he refused to release his tax returns during the 2016 presidential campaign and insisted he would do so when they had been audited. In recent months a string of leading Democrat 2020 presidential candidates have released their own tax returns, piling further pressure on Mr Trump to do likewise. Story continues The latest refusal has ratcheted up tensions between the White House and Democrats, who are using their majority in the House of Representatives to conduct a string of investigations into the Trump administration. The House Judiciary committee has threatened to hold a vote on Wednesday on whether to find Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with a series of deadlines to hand over material from the special counsel Robert Mueller and his report into potential Russian collusion. Mr Trump has also blocked a request for Donald McGahn, a former White House counsel, to hand over key documents. Mr McGahn was a star witness in Mr Mueller's investigation, revealing how the president had attempted to get the special counsel fired on more than one occasion. CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela's National Assembly, led by opposition leader Juan Guaido, on Tuesday authorized an interest payment on an overdue bond, in a bid to keep the country's crown jewel overseas asset out of creditor hands. The $71 million interest payment will be paid on state oil company PDVSA's 2020 bond, which is backed by shares in its subsidiary, U.S. refiner Citgo Petroleum. Failure to make the payment could prompt creditors to attempt to seize up to half of the shares in Citgo. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government had remained current on the 2020 bond in order to avoid losing Citgo, even as it has fallen behind on more than $9 billion in payments on other debt issued by the government and by PDVSA. But the latest interest payment, due on April 27, remains outstanding. PDVSA has a 30-day grace period in which to make the payment before creditors can attempt to seize the shares. The United States slapped sanctions on PDVSA in January in a bid to pressure Maduro, a socialist labeled a dictator by the Trump administration and many other countries in the region, to step down. That would have complicated any effort by a Maduro-linked entity to make the payment. Jose Ignacio Hernandez, who Guaido has named as a special prosecutor representing Venezuela's interests abroad, said the team would pay the bonds with funds that were frozen due to U.S. sanctions. "Paying interest on the PDVSA 2020 bond is, under the current conditions, the only option that allows us to protect the Venezuelan state's assets, and leaves the government in a better position for its strategy to renegotiate public debt," Hernandez said in a statement. Allies of Guaido, who in January invoked the country's constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate, have said they would seek an authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department to make the payment. Story continues Neither PDVSA nor Venezuela's oil ministry responded to requests for comment on the payment authorization. Maduro has accused the opposition of attempting to "steal" Citgo. Holders of the 2020 bond are not the only threats to Venezuela's continued ownership of Citgo. Canadian miner Crystallex is attempting to seize shares in the company as compensation for an unpaid arbitration award after Venezuela expropriated its gold mining project. Venezuela also pledged part of Citgo to Russia as collateral for a $1.5 billion loan. (Reporting by Corina Pons, Mayela Armas, Luc Cohen and Angus Berwick; Editing by Alistair Bell and Rosalba O'Brien) Caracas (AFP) - Venezuela will prosecute seven lawmakers who backed last week's failed uprising orchestrated by opposition leader Juan Guaido, the country's Supreme Court ruled Tuesday, as Washington removed sanctions against Caracas' sacked spy chief for backing the revolt. The court, which announced the ruling in a statement, said it asked Attorney General Tarek William Saab to handle the "criminal investigation" into opposition deputies for "high treason" and "conspiracy." Soon after the announcement, the Constituent Assembly -- which effectively acts as a regime rubber stamp -- stripped the seven lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity. "What comes now? A trial," said Constituent Assembly speaker Diosdado Cabello, the regime's second most powerful figure after President Nicolas Maduro. Cabello ominously added that three unnamed other lawmakers had been identified and would undergo the same process. The list includes Henry Ramos Allup, the former speaker of the opposition-controlled National Assembly. Guaido, who is recognized as Venezuela's interim president by more than 50 countries and was himself stripped of his immunity on April 2, denounced the decision. The government's "only response... is to persecute, because they no longer govern, because they no longer have command," he said. "Today, this parliament offers the solutions that the regime cannot and will not be able to give, and that is why it is already defeated," Guaido said during a session of the opposition-controlled National Assembly legislature, which journalists were not allowed to attend by order of the military. In Washington, US Vice President Mike Pence kept up the pressure on President Nicolas Maduro's shaken regime by announcing that sanctions against his sacked intelligence chief General Christopher Figuera were being lifted. Pence, speaking at the State Department, said he hoped that Figuera's defection would inspire other senior Venezuelans to break ranks with Maduro. Story continues - Pence warns Venezuela judges - Washington "will consider sanctions relief for all those who step up for the constitution and support the rule of law," Pence said. "I hope the actions our nation is taking today will encourage others to follow the example of General Cristopher Figuera." However, Mexico rejected that approach, as well as Washington's refrain that "all options are on the table" to remove Maduro from power -- a euphemism understood as hinting to military intervention. Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard warned that pursuing a military intervention would be a "big mistake." "We have a different point of view from those who support the idea of a military intervention, which would be a big mistake, or from the people who expect that the regime is going to be defeated only by sanctions, or who just wait for a division to occur there in Venezuela," he said, speaking after Pence. "We need a democratic and peaceful solution." Pence hinted that the United States could impose sanctions on the Venezuelan judges if they use the court as "a political tool for a regime that usurps democracy, indicts political prisoners and promotes authoritarianism." "If the Supreme Court in Venezuela does not return to its constitutional mandate to uphold the rule of law, the United States of America will hold all 25 of its magistrates accountable for their actions," Pence said. In his speech, Pence also announced that a US Navy hospital ship, the USNS Comfort, will return to the area in June for a five-month mission aimed at assisting neighboring countries that are caring for some of the millions of Venezuelans who have fled their country's crumbling economy. The other lawmakers named on the Venezuelan Supreme Court prosecution list were Edgar Zambrano, Luis Florido, Marianela Magallanes, Simon Calzadilla, Americo De Grazia and Richard Blanco. The Constituent Assembly has said it would suspend the immunity of any lawmakers who backed the April 30 uprising, which set off two days of violent clashes between security forces and protesters that left five people dead. Dozens more were injured and more than 233 were arrested in the unrest. Saab, the attorney general, has said separately that authorities have already issued 18 arrest warrants against "civilians and military plotters" following the April 30 uprising. The international Contact Group on Venezuela, which met in Costa Rica's capital San Jose, announced it would send a high-level mission to the crisis-wracked country to monitor humanitarian aid distribution and encourage dialogue. burs-oh/ecl CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela's pro-government Constituent Assembly on Tuesday stripped seven opposition legislators of parliamentary immunity after they joined rallies on April 30 amid a failed uprising aimed at ousting President Nicolas Maduro. The country's Supreme Court earlier had said the legislators should be investigated for crimes including conspiracy, treason and rebellion. It did not specify which actions the lawmakers had taken that could be considered criminal. The lawmakers in question include Henry Ramos, former chief of the legislature, and Edgar Zambrano, currently the legislature's vice president. "The usurper Supreme Court believes that by attempting to illegally violate the parliamentary immunity of our deputies it will slow the struggle of an entire country to escape this tragedy," Zambrano wrote via Twitter, in response to the Supreme Court's announcement. "They're wrong." On April 30, opposition leader Juan Guaido tried to spark a military uprising to oust Maduro, but there were no widespread defections among soldiers and the plan fizzled out. Maduro denounced it as a coup attempt. In April, following a similar request from the Supreme Court, the Constituent Assembly approved a measure allowing for a future trial of Guaido - who in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency. Guaido has described Maduro as a usurper, calling his 2018 re-election fraudulent. The United States and most other Western nations have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate leader. (Reporting by Angus Berwick and Luc Cohen; editing by Leslie Adler) CARACAS, May 8 (Reuters) - Venezuela's Supreme Court head, Maikel Moreno, on Wednesday rebuffed the U.S. government's threats to sanction members of his court if they did not reject President Nicolas Maduro's government and back opposition leader Juan Guaido. The U.S. Treasury Department in 2017 imposed sanctions on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court's constitutional chamber for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the opposition-controlled legislature, the National Assembly, now headed by Guaido. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday that the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court, which the opposition says Maduro has stacked with supporters. "Mike Pence is trying to submit Venezuela's top legal authorities to threats that violate the principles of independence, self-determination and sovereignty," Moreno said in comments broadcast on state television. "We cannot be blackmailed and we will never bow before a foreign government that seeks to violate the sovereignty of our country." Pence said on Tuesday that the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognized as the legitimate head of state by the United States and other Western countries, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of U.S. sanctions against his government. Venezuela's pro-government Constituent Assembly has stripped Guaido and eight other opposition legislators of their parliamentary immunity to prosecution following requests by the Supreme Court. The court, which created the Constituent Assembly in 2017 to overrule the National Assembly, would be responsible for signing off on any warrant for an arrest of Guaido, which the Trump administration has said would elicit a harsh response. Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. Maduro accuses Guaido of staging a U.S-backed coup. (Reporting by Angus Berwick Editing by Leslie Adler) Walmart and Sam's Club will hike the minimum age for buying tobacco products to 21, and will no longer sell the fruit flavored vaping systems that have become popular with teenagers. The new age requirement will kick in on July 1 Walmart said Wednesday, and will apply to the sale of e-cigarettes as well. But even adults will no longer be able to buy the electronic nicotine systems that taste like desserts or fruit, with Walmart saying it plans to phase out those products. "We unequivocally acknowledge that even a single sale of a tobacco product to a minor is one too many, and we take seriously our responsibilities in this regard,'' John Scudder, Walmart's U.S. chief ethics and compliance officer, said in a letter addressed to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Pay for college without breaking the bank: How to pay for college without going broke? Let us count the ways No hailing Uber today: Uber, Lyft strike hits LA, NYC, Boston, Chicago as drivers protest low wages In March, the FDA accused 15 national retailers, including Walmart and several gas station chains, of selling tobacco products to buyers who were underage. The agency said then that it was considering enforcement actions "to address high rates of violations" at the retailers after more than 1 million undercover checks this decade reportedly found high rates of sales to minors. Walmart was among the chains to have tobacco sales violation rates of between 15 percent and 24 percent, according to the FDA. Federal regulators are concerned about the rise of nicotine vaping among teenagers, citing that the habit can lead to cigarette smoking. Tobacco use is a major cause of cancer and other ailments. More recently Walmart received a letter from the FDA's then commissioner Scott Gottlieb on April 5, but the retailer challenged the violation rates that Gottlieb cited. Last year, Walmart passed 94 percent of over 2,400 checks by the FDA, Scudder said, while Sam's Club passed each of its 15 checks. Those numbers were "significantly higher than the rates referenced in Dr. Gottlieb's April 5 letter and in our view more fairly and accurately portray our performance,'' Scudder wrote. Walmart says that it already requires staffers who sell tobacco products to undergo training. But starting last month the company began subjecting employees who fail checks by secret shoppers to disciplinary action, which can include being fired. Such actions were previously taken only in regard to failed FDA checks. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Walmart, Sam's Club raise age to buy tobacco to 21; won't sell flavored nicotine to minors Walmart is increasing the minimum purchase price for tobacco products to 21. Starting July 1, the retailer (and its corporate cousin Sams Club) will institute the new policy as well as discontinue the sale of fruit- and desert-flavored nicotine products. The company made the announcement in a letter to the Food and Drug Administration Wednesday. Walmart is also instituting more severe penalties for cashiers who dont follow the policies, saying employees who fail secret shopper checks will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination. We unequivocally acknowledge that even a single sale of a tobacco product to a minor is one too many, and we take seriously our responsibilities in this regard, said John Scudder, Walmarts ethics and compliance officer. The move comes amid increased Congressional pressure to force retailers to raise the legal age to buy tobacco products from 18 to 21. Earlier this month, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced plans to introduce a bill that would do just that. Several states have already enacted such laws. Government health officials have been increasingly worried about teen smoking, noting that teens who vape are more likely to start smoking cigarettes. Tobacco smoking adults that use vapes also have a significantly higher chance of heart attack, coronary heart disease and depression, according to the largest-ever study conducted on vaping, published in March. Its National Small Business Week, so youll hear a bunch of platitudes about small business: Small business is the backbone of the economy, creates new jobs, is the American dream, yada, yada All true, but how does that help you? Ive been involved with the small-business community for 25 years, and its time for straight talk and real help for small business and startups. Its time for a Small Business Manifesto. First, lets level the playing field for small businesses: Tax all sales in a location equally. Whether you buy something in a brick-and-mortar location or over the Internet, the tax should be exactly the same. Two decades of preferential sales tax for online sales has decimated small local businesses. Sharpen the FTCs teeth. The Federal Trade Commission has become a virtual rubber stamp for mega-mergers. The huge corporations formed by these mega-mergers make it far more difficult for small and mid-size companies to compete and result in fewer choices, worse service, and higher prices for small businesses. Its time for a new approach to anti-trust and a 21st century trust buster movement. Reinstate net neutrality. Dont think net neutrality affects your small business? Well, look at your internet costs and quality of service. The Internet is now as critical for a business as is electricity; it should be regulated the same way as a public utility. President Donald Trumps appointees to the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) reversed net neutrality, giving a few huge telecommunications companies the ability to create fast lanes, charging more or slowing down speeds for startups and small businesses that might compete with their own offerings or other large corporations who pay them more. Ensure fair shipping prices. In my business, we stopped selling our products to consumers directly because of exploding shipping costs. Sky-high shipping rates make it almost impossible to compete against huge online retailers. Sure, large companies should be able to negotiate some volume and other discounts, but the difference in shipping rates has gotten out of hand. Story continues Solve the health care crisis. I dont care how revamping the Affordable Care Act, Medicare for all, single payer, health insurance regulation, whatever small businesses need equal health care access for all. In my 30s, as a self-employed individual, I went without health insurance because I couldnt afford it. Before the ACA, many business owners over the age of 40 typically couldnt get any insurance at all. (There was always some kind of preexisting condition.) My companys health insurance rates used to increase 20-30% every year. Every American should be covered, no exclusions for preexisting conditions, and prices shouldnt rise ridiculously for older workers. Do something about spam calls. While individuals might refuse to answer any "unknown" callers on our personal phones, small businesses dont have the same option. My office has to answer every call. My sister in sales has to answer every call. There are bills in both houses of Congress to reduce robocalls and the FCC could take stronger action. Lets get this done. Outlaw subsidies for attracting big corporations. Multibillion-dollar companies pit cities and states against each other in bidding wars to get financial incentives when they move. Everyone knows its a hoax: The company actually knows where they want to move, and cities and states never really recoup their investment. Put an end to these shenanigans. Imagine if the state of Virginia had given $750 million in incentives to small businesses in the state instead of to Amazon how many jobs and opportunities that would have created. More: More small businesses cashing in on cashless payments More: Amazon says small business owners earn $90,000 a year from selling in its stores More: Don't hate, appreciate: Socially responsible small businesses win millennials Those proposals of mine require government action, but there are things all of us can do to support small businesses: Shop small, shop local. Every time a package arrives at your front door from a huge internet retailer, you hurt a local business. Patronize the businesses in your own town. Stop automatically voting for 'pro-business politicians.' Pro-business usually means pro-big business. Most "anti-regulation" politicians really just mean "let the big guys get away with anything." Vote for politicians who will take on the big corporate special interests and have your small business back. Policies have consequences. Your choices have consequences. So lets stop saying how much we love small businesses and really do something to help them. Rhonda Abrams is the author of Successful Business Plan: Secrets & Strategies, the best-selling business plan guide of all time, just released in its seventh edition. Connect with Rhonda on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @RhondaAbrams. Register for Rhondas free business tips newsletter at www.PlanningShop.com This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Want to really celebrate Small Business Week? Give entrepreneurs less talk, more action By Linda Sieg TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is reaching out to North Korea in the hope of arranging a summit, a strategy critics say poses risks given doubts about chances of a breakthrough, even as ties with U.S. ally South Korea deteriorate. In an interview with Japan's Sankei newspaper last week, Abe offered to hold unconditional talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, a shift in tone if not substance from previous remarks that had predicated a summit on progress towards resolving a feud over Japanese citizens abducted by Pyongyang decades ago. The outreach comes amid Japan's frosty ties with South Korea due to intensifying rows over their wartime history, including Japan's 1910-45 colonisation of the Korean peninsula. "Abe seems to be keener to talk to Kim than to (South Korean President) Moon (Jae-in)," said one former Japanese diplomat who declined to be identified because the matter is sensitive. "He should be doing the opposite: reach out to Moon ... and ignore Kim for the sake of rebuilding trilateral unity vis-a-vis North Korea." A Japanese foreign ministry official said Tokyo, Seoul and Washington were united on the ultimate goal of getting North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons programme, which it carried out for years in defiance of U.N. Security Council resolutions. Abe is the only regional leader who has not met Kim, after summits between Kim and Trump, Moon, Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and likely wants to show his domestic audience that he is not out of the diplomatic loop. In a sign of the importance Japan places on the abduction issue, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga will speak in New York on Friday at a symposium on abductions, after meeting top U.S. officials in Washington. Foreign ministry officials said there were no plans for Suga to meet North Korean officials while in the United States. In 2002, North Korea admitted its agents had kidnapped 13 Japanese decades before. Japan says 17 of its citizens were abducted, five of whom were repatriated. North Korea has said eight are dead and that another four never entered the country. Story continues Abe has vowed not to rest until all the abductees come home, so whether or not he publicly sets "preconditions", the success of any summit would almost certainly be judged at home by whether there was progress on the topic. Without progress, "the meeting would be categorised as a failure and the cost of failure would be very big", another former diplomat said. Defining "success" is also touchy since anything short of the return of all the missing risks a negative reaction at home. "At this stage, the government of Japan believes that 12 are missing and still alive and that is the precondition for negotiating with North Korea. If two or three are found alive and North Korea decides to hand them back, is that a solution for the government of Japan?" the first ex-diplomat said. "Of course, if Megumi-san is included, it would be a big victory for us," he added. He was referring to Megumi Yokota, who was abducted by North Korea in 1977 at the age of 13 and who has become a sort of poster child for the abductees' cause. (Editing by Nick Nacfie) By Steve Holland and David Morgan WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump's struggle with Democratic lawmakers intensified on Tuesday, with the White House directing former counsel Don McGahn not to comply with a congressional subpoena and the chair of the House Judiciary Committee threatening to hold him in contempt. McGahn, who left his post as White House counsel last year, was directed not to produce White House records related to Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia inquiry that are being sought by the House panel, said Pat Cipollone, the current White House counsel. Separately, the Justice Department on Tuesday also threatened to advise Trump to invoke executive privilege over the entire unredacted Mueller report if House Democrats did not back down from a plan to hold Barr in contempt. Both incidents are the latest episodes in an escalating fight between the Republican president and Democrats, who control the House of Representatives and are seeking documents and testimony relating to various investigations, ahead of the 2020 presidential election in which Trump is seeking a second four-year term. Cipollone said in a letter to Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler that McGahn was given the documents during the investigation "with the clear understanding that the records remain subject to the control of the White House for all purposes." "The White House records remain legally protected from disclosure under longstanding constitutional principles, because they implicate significant executive branch confidentiality interests and executive privilege," Cipollone wrote. Executive privilege is a right claimed by presidents to withhold information about internal executive branch deliberations from other branches of government. Nadler responded late in the day with a letter to McGahn's personal attorney, noting the White House had not invoked executive privilege over the documents and that the Judiciary Committee still expected McGahn to comply with its subpoena. Story continues "I fully expect that the committee will hold Mr. McGahn in contempt if he fails to appear before the Committee, unless the White House secures a court order directing otherwise," Nadler wrote. Nadler had asked McGahn to produce the documents by Tuesday morning. The committee also subpoenaed McGahn to testify at a deposition. Neither committee officials nor McGahn's lawyer were immediately available to comment on whether he would do so. "Because Mr. McGahn does not have the legal right to disclose these documents to third parties, I would ask the Committee to direct any request for such records to the White House, the appropriate legal custodian," Cipollone said. CONGRESSIONAL INVESTIGATION House Democrats have sought McGahn's cooperation as part of their investigation of possible corruption and obstruction of justice by Trump. Trump denies wrongdoing. Mueller's 448-page report referred to conversations in June 2017 in which Trump called McGahn to tell him he should direct Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, who was overseeing the special counsel's probe, to remove Mueller because of alleged conflicts of interest. The report cited "McGahn's clear recollection" that the president directed him to tell Rosenstein that "Mueller has to go." McGahn did not carry out Trump's order, the report said. Trump also tried unsuccessfully to get McGahn to dispute media reports that the president had attempted to fire Mueller, the report said. Trump is fighting congressional Democrats on several fronts. U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday denied a request by House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal for Trump's tax returns. The House Judiciary Committee has set a vote for Wednesday on whether to cite Attorney General William Barr with contempt of Congress over his refusal to provide it with a full, unredacted version of Mueller's report that the Democrats have since subpoenaed. "In the face of the committee's threatened contempt vote, the Attorney General will be compelled to request that the President invoke executive privilege with respect to the materials subject to the subpoena," Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd wrote in a May 7 letter to Nadler seen by Reuters late on Tuesday night. A U.S. House Democratic aide said the vote is still set for Wednesday, and that Democrats had earlier tried to negotiate with the department in order to avoid the a contempt citation. Meanwhile, Trump, his three oldest children and the Trump Organization also have sued Deutsche Bank AG and Capital One Financial Corp to try to block them from responding to U.S. congressional subpoenas issued by Democrats seeking financial records. Republicans in Congress have rejected the efforts of Democratic-led House committees as political gamesmanship intended to appeal to the Democratic Party's voting base ahead of the 2020 election. In a statement late on Tuesday, House Judiciary Committee Ranking Republican Doug Collins blasted Nadler for rejecting offers by the Justice Department to let Democrats see a lesser-redacted version of Mueller report. "It appears that the more access to information Democrats receive, the less interested they are in actually examining those facts," Collins said. (Reporting by Steve Holland and David Morgan; additional reporting by Sarah N. Lynch; Writing by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Will Dunham and Lisa Shumaker) Want to participate in a short research study? Help shape the future of investing tools and you could win a $250 gift card! This article is written for those who want to get better at using price to earnings ratios (P/E ratios). To keep it practical, we'll show how Shenzhen Investment Limited's (HKG:604) P/E ratio could help you assess the value on offer. Looking at earnings over the last twelve months, Shenzhen Investment has a P/E ratio of 7.3. In other words, at today's prices, investors are paying HK$7.3 for every HK$1 in prior year profit. See our latest analysis for Shenzhen Investment How Do You Calculate Shenzhen Investment's P/E Ratio? The formula for P/E is: Price to Earnings Ratio = Share Price Earnings per Share (EPS) Or for Shenzhen Investment: P/E of 7.3 = HK$3.06 HK$0.42 (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2018.) Is A High Price-to-Earnings Ratio Good? A higher P/E ratio means that buyers have to pay a higher price for each HK$1 the company has earned over the last year. All else being equal, it's better to pay a low price -- but as Warren Buffett said, 'It's far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.' How Growth Rates Impact P/E Ratios Generally speaking the rate of earnings growth has a profound impact on a company's P/E multiple. When earnings grow, the 'E' increases, over time. That means even if the current P/E is high, it will reduce over time if the share price stays flat. Then, a lower P/E should attract more buyers, pushing the share price up. Shenzhen Investment's earnings per share fell by 34% in the last twelve months. But over the longer term (3 years), earnings per share have increased by 1.1%. And it has shrunk its earnings per share by 6.5% per year over the last five years. This could justify a pessimistic P/E. How Does Shenzhen Investment's P/E Ratio Compare To Its Peers? One good way to get a quick read on what market participants expect of a company is to look at its P/E ratio. The image below shows that Shenzhen Investment has a higher P/E than the average (6.3) P/E for companies in the real estate industry. Story continues SEHK:604 Price Estimation Relative to Market, May 7th 2019 Its relatively high P/E ratio indicates that Shenzhen Investment shareholders think it will perform better than other companies in its industry classification. Clearly the market expects growth, but it isn't guaranteed. So investors should delve deeper. I like to check if company insiders have been buying or selling. Remember: P/E Ratios Don't Consider The Balance Sheet One drawback of using a P/E ratio is that it considers market capitalization, but not the balance sheet. That means it doesn't take debt or cash into account. In theory, a company can lower its future P/E ratio by using cash or debt to invest in growth. Spending on growth might be good or bad a few years later, but the point is that the P/E ratio does not account for the option (or lack thereof). How Does Shenzhen Investment's Debt Impact Its P/E Ratio? Net debt totals 92% of Shenzhen Investment's market cap. This is enough debt that you'd have to make some adjustments before using the P/E ratio to compare it to a company with net cash. The Bottom Line On Shenzhen Investment's P/E Ratio Shenzhen Investment has a P/E of 7.3. That's below the average in the HK market, which is 11.7. The P/E reflects market pessimism that probably arises from the lack of recent EPS growth, paired with significant leverage. When the market is wrong about a stock, it gives savvy investors an opportunity. If it is underestimating a company, investors can make money by buying and holding the shares until the market corrects itself. So this free visualization of the analyst consensus on future earnings could help you make the right decision about whether to buy, sell, or hold. Of course you might be able to find a better stock than Shenzhen Investment. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have grown earnings strongly. We aim to bring you long-term focused research analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. If you spot an error that warrants correction, please contact the editor at editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. Simply Wall St has no position in the stocks mentioned. Thank you for reading. * Iran says measures are permitted under 2015 nuclear deal * U.S. plans further sanctions on Tehran "very soon" * Threatens European firms that might defy US clampdown * Tensions rise as US sends carrier, B-52 bombers to region * France warns Iran not to ditch deal with world powers * European powers struggle to save deal from US sanctions * Graphic - Iran's nuclear program: https://tmsnrt.rs/2WqRqfI * By Bozorgmehr Sharafedin LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Iran announced on Wednesday it was relaxing some curbs to its nuclear program, announcing steps that stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers for now, but threatening more action if countries do not shield it from U.S. sanctions. Hours later, the United States said it was not finished imposing sanctions on Iran and planned more "very soon." It warned Europe against doing business with Tehran via a system of non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions. A year to the day after Washington exited the nuclear deal, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced changes that experts said seemed tailored to ensure Tehran avoids triggering the deal's mechanism to punish it for violations, at least for now. "For now, nothing changes, but this could be a ticking time bomb," a European diplomat told Reuters. The main new measure that takes effect now would have limited practical impact: a halt to Iran's sales of enriched uranium and heavy water to other countries. The deal allows such sales so Iran can keep reducing its stockpiles below maximum thresholds, but Washington already effectively barred the sales with a sanctions move last week. For now, Irans stockpile of enriched uranium is still well below the deals cap and heavy water is less sensitive. THREAT TO ESCALATE ENRICHMENT Rouhani also threatened that in 60 days Iran would resume enrichment of uranium beyond the low fissile purity - suitable for civilian nuclear power generation - allowed under the deal, unless the five other powers signed up to it found a way to protect Iran's oil and banking industries from U.S. sanctions. Story continues "If the five countries came to the negotiating table and we reached an agreement, and if they could protect our interests in the oil and banking sectors, we will go back to square one," Rouhani said in a televised address. "The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA," he said, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. "These are actions in line with the JCPOA." The 2015 accord was signed between Iran, Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and the United States, before President Donald Trump took office. Iran agreed to limits on its disputed nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions. Washington's European allies opposed Trump's decision to pull out and have tried, so far in vain, to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions, which include an all-out effort to block Iran's oil exports to throttle its economy. France and Germany both said they wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive, and warned Iran not to violate it. "Our position remains that we want to stick by the agreement, especially to prevent Iran from gaining possession of a nuclear weapon," German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said, stressing the pact was crucial for European security. Russia and Iran both blamed the United States for what they portrayed as Tehran's forced decision to suspend some pledges under the nuclear deal, while putting the onus on European powers to guarantee sanctions relief for Iran. The Kremlin accused Washington of provoking Iran's move. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin had predicted consequences from the "unthought-out steps" of U.S. withdrawal. "Now we are seeing those consequences." China said the deal should continue to be implemented and called on all sides to exercise restraint and pursue dialog. The Trump administration says the deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed as it is not permanent, does not address Iran's ballistic missile program and does not punish it for waging proxy wars in other Middle East countries. Tim Morrison, a special assistant to Trump and Senior Director for Weapons of Mass Destruction and Biodefense, told a conference that Washington was not "done" with imposing sanctions on Iran. "Expect more sanctions soon. Very soon." Morrison said the United States would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to fray the U.S. sanctions noose around Iran. He advised them not to use a so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to enable non-dollar trade with Iran. "If you are a bank, an investor, an insurer or other business in Europe you should know that getting involved in the ... Special Purpose Vehicle is a very poor business decision," Morrison said. IRAN TREADS CAREFULLY Nuclear arms control experts said Iran's steps announced on Wednesday appeared calibrated to avoid setting in motion renewed sanctions under a "snapback" mechanism in the 2015 accord. Mark Fitzpatrick, an associate fellow of the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Iran was not yet close to exceeding its allowed stockpile limit of low-enriched uranium, and its heavy water stockpile was a comparatively minor issue. "Enriching (uranium) to 20 percent would surely spark sanctions, so I expect in 60 days there will be various 'technical' reasons why it cant be done right away," he said of Rouhani's threat to exceed the enrichment purity limit to levels farther along the road toward high-enriched, bomb-grade uranium. The weeks leading up to the anniversary of Trump's withdrawal from the agreement have seen a sharp tightening of U.S. sanctions and an increase in tensions on other fronts. From this month, Washington has effectively ordered countries worldwide to stop buying Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. The Trump administration has revoked waivers that had allowed some countries to continue buying Iranian oil and it aims to reduce Iranian crude exports to zero. Washington has also blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist group. Iran responded with threats to close the Gulf's Strait of Hormuz - the conduit for about a third op the world's seaborne oil exports - if its ships were blocked there. AIRCRAFT CARRIER, B-52 BOMBERS Washington announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier and B-52 bombers to the Middle East to counter what it says are "clear indications" of Iranian threats to U.S. forces there. Tehran said the USS Abraham Lincoln was merely replacing another carrier under a scheduled rotation, and called the U.S. announcement old news. The U.S. military confirmed the deployment was already scheduled but said the carrier's movement was being "expedited" due to heightened tensions with Iran. The looming total ban on oil sales is likely to sharply increase the economic hardship for Iran's 80 million people. Finding a response is the biggest test yet for Rouhani, a pragmatist who has faced strong opposition from hardliners. The nuclear deal was his flagship policy to end Iran's isolation and open up its economy to the world. Ultimate authority in Iran lies with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a cleric in power since 1989, who signed off on the nuclear deal but remains close to the hardline faction challenging Rouhani. Washington's European allies say Trump's repudiation of the deal weakens the pragmatic wing of Iran's leadership and plays into the hands of hardliners. It means ordinary Iranians see no economic benefits from Rouhani's efforts to open the country. Trump's hard line is backed by Israel and Washington's Gulf Arab allies, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which see Iran as a foe and which gain leverage over global oil prices by keeping Iranian crude off the market. (Reporting by Bozorgmehr Sharafedin with additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in Beijing, Babak Dehghanpisheh in Geneva, Jonathan Landay and Idrees Ali in Washington, Sophie Louet in Paris, Francois Murphy in Vienna and Michelle Martin in Berlin Writing by Peter Graff Editing by Mark Heinrich) (Adds Chinese state media commentary) * Higher tariffs due to take effect during Liu's visit * Normal to have disagreements in talks, China says * Markets fall on negative tone from Trump trade officials By David Lawder and Ben Blanchard WASHINGTON/BEIJING, May 7 (Reuters) - Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will travel to Washington for two days of trade talks this week, China said on Tuesday, setting up a last-ditch bid for a deal that would avoid a sharp increase in tariffs on Chinese goods ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump. U.S. officials have accused China of reneging in the past week on substantial commitments made during months of negotiations aimed at ending their trade war, prompting Trump to issue a new deadline to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent from 10 percent. The higher tariffs are scheduled to take effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT) on Friday, a spokesman for the U.S. Trade Representative's office said. That comes right in the middle of Liu's visit. China's Commerce Ministry said that Liu, who leads the talks for Beijing, will spend only two days in Washington - Thursday and Friday - instead of the three days he had previously planned before Trump announced the tariff increase. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday cast doubt on the talks, telling reporters China had backtracked on previous commitments. The gloomier tone shook Wall Street, causing major stock indexes to tumble more than 1 percent. Treasury yields and oil prices also fell as the potential for an unraveling of the trade talks sparked fresh concerns about global economic growth. During a 10-month U.S.-China war, U.S. tariffs have been imposed on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods, and retaliatory Chinese tariffs slapped on $110 billion worth of American products. Trump has pushed for sweeping changes to China's policies on intellectual property theft, technology transfers industrial subsidies and market access. Story continues Trump has criticized the U.S. trade deficit with China, which hit a record $419 billion in 2018, as stealing American manufacturing jobs. His hard line on China has played well with his political base in Midwestern industrial and farm states, with Trump seeking re-election next year. Trump had initially set the tariff increase to 25 percent on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, including internet modems and routers, printed circuit boards, vacuum cleaners and furniture, in January. He delayed the deadline until March 1 to allow negotiations, and then postponed the increase indefinitely, citing progress in the talks. CHINESE LAWS A person with knowledge of the talks told Reuters that Chinese negotiators sought to reverse earlier agreements to make changes to Chinese laws to reflect policy changes on a "comprehensive" range of issues. It would be difficult to overcome this setback and reach agreement on other sticking points, such as subsidies and cloud-computing access, in just two days of talks, the person said. Wendy Cutler, a former USTR chief negotiator for Asia, said it was normal to see drama in the final stages of a major trade negotiation, but indications of Chinese backtracking on previously agreed text were cause for concern. "That signals a deep lack of trust between the negotiating teams, which can be hard to rebuild," said Cutler, now managing director of the Asia Society Policy Institute in Washington. "It all now hinges upon what Liu He is bringing with him to Washington," Cutler added. "If he can convince Lighthizer that China will honor commitments made during previous rounds then things presumably can get back on track so to the remaining sticking points can be addressed." China's response to the prospect of new tariffs has been reserved. Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said in a press briefing on Tuesday that mutual respect was the basis for reaching a trade agreement. "Adding tariffs can't resolve any problem," Geng said. "Talks are by their nature a process of discussion. It's normal for both sides to have differences. China won't shun problems and is sincere about continuing talks," Geng said. China will keep calm against threats of higher tariffs from the United States and has "complete confidence" in its ability to face challenges in trade talks, a commentary in the Communist Party's People's Daily, China's top newspaper said on Wednesday. China has repeatedly said it will make changes to open its economy on its own timeline, not in response to trade disputes. But recently it has adopted new laws, including a foreign investment law, and amended others, moves some see as efforts to tackle the concerns of the United States and other foreign investors, including those from China's largest trading partner, the European Union. The United States now has 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion of Chinese machinery and technology goods, and 10 percent tariffs on $200 billion of products ranging from computer modems and routers to furniture, lighting and building materials. Negotiations to remove U.S. tariffs have been one of the remaining sticking points. China wants the tariffs removed. U.S. officials want to keep some, if not all, as part of any final deal to ensure China lives up to its commitments. (Reporting by David Lawder in Washington and Ben Blanchard in Beijing; Additional reporting by Jeff Mason and David Shepardson in Washington, Michael Martina in Beijing and Sinead Carew in New York; Editing by Will Dunham and Simon Cameron-Moore) (Adds Trump administration official comments, paragraphs 6-7) * Trump order aimed at tightening squeeze on Iran's economy * Iran rolls back nuclear pledges, stops short of violating pact * U.S. threatens European firms that might defy U.S. clampdown * Tensions rise as U.S. sends carrier, B-52 bombers to region * France warns Iran not to ditch 2015 accord with world powers * European powers struggle to save deal from U.S. sanctions * Graphic - Iran's nuclear program: https://tmsnrt.rs/2WqRqfI By Humeyra Pamuk and Bozorgmehr Sharafedin WASHINGTON/LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday imposed new sanctions on Iran, targeting revenue from its exports of industrial metals, the latest salvo in tensions between Washington and Tehran over a 2015 international accord curbing the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. Iran had announced hours earlier that it was relaxing some restrictions on its nuclear program, steps that stopped short of violating the deal with world powers for now, but threatening more action if countries do not shield it from U.S. sanctions. An executive order issued by Trump covers Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors, the government's largest non-petroleum-related sources of export revenue and 10 percent of its export economy, a White House statement said. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said. The administration says the nuclear deal, negotiated by Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed as it is not permanent, does not address Iran's ballistic missile program and does not punish it for waging proxy wars in the Middle East. Tensions between the two countries were already high when the Trump administration said last weekend that it was deploying a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East in response to what it said were "troubling indications and warnings" from Iran. Story continues On Wednesday, a senior administration official said the United States was "not escalating militarily against Iran" and accused Iran of being "provocative." It was in Iran's best interests to continue complying with the pact, the official said. The executive order effectively bans entities from the purchase, acquisition, sale, transport, or marketing of those minerals and their products from Iran or face sanctions. It also says any individuals and entities would be subject to U.S. sanctions if they knowingly engaged in a significant transaction for the sale, supply, or transfer to Iran of significant goods or services used in connection with those industrial metal sectors. The U.S. Treasury said it was allowing a 90-day winding down period for transactions related to Iran's metals sectors and warned against entering into any new business after May 8, saying that would not be considered a wind-down activity. A year ago, Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the nuclear deal signed by Iran, Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and the United States. The accord relaxed international sanctions on Iran in return for Tehran accepting curbs on its nuclear program that were designed to prevent it from developing nuclear weapons. Tehran has said it pursued a peaceful nuclear program only. ENRICHED URANIUM SALES Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced changes on Wednesday that experts said seemed tailored to ensure Tehran avoids triggering the deal's mechanism to punish it for violations, at least for now. The main new measure that takes effect now would have limited practical impact: a halt to Iran's sales of enriched uranium and heavy water to other countries. The deal allows such sales so Iran can keep reducing its stockpiles below maximum thresholds, but Washington already effectively barred the sales with a sanctions move last week. For now, Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium is still well below the deal's cap and heavy water is less sensitive. "The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA," Rouhani said in a televised address, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. "These are actions in line with the JCPOA." Rouhani also threatened that in 60 days Iran would resume enrichment of uranium beyond the low fissile purity - suitable for civilian nuclear power generation - allowed under the deal, unless the five other powers signed up to it found a way to protect Iran's oil and banking industries from U.S. sanctions. Tehran halting compliance with some elements of the nuclear deal was "nothing less than nuclear blackmail of Europe," Tim Morrison, special assistant to the U.S. president and senior director for weapons of mass destruction, told a conference. "Now is the time for the community of nations to strongly condemn Irans nuclear misconduct and increase pressure on the regime to comply with U.S. demands," Morrison said. Morrison said the United States would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to undermine Washington's sanctions pressure on Iran. He advised them against using the so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions. From this month, Washington has effectively ordered countries worldwide to stop buying Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. The Trump administration has revoked waivers that had allowed some countries to continue buying Iranian oil and it aims to reduce Iranian crude exports to zero. Washington has also blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist group. Iran responded with threats to close the Gulf's Strait of Hormuz - the conduit for about a third of the world's seaborne oil exports - if its ships were blocked there. "We have made our focus diplomatic isolation and economic pressure and that policy is working," Brian Hook, Special Envoy for Iran, said in a briefing. Hook said that more nations now, compared with a year ago, were in agreement with the United States on Iran. Washington's European allies opposed Trump's decision to pull out and have tried, so far in vain, to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions, which include an all-out effort to block Iran's oil exports to throttle its economy. KEEPING ACCORD ALIVE France and Germany both said they wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive, and warned Iran not to violate it. "It is important to avoid any action that would impede the implementation of their obligations by the parties now engaged in the accord or that would fuel an escalation," deputy foreign ministry spokesman Olivier Gauvin said in a statement. Russia and Iran both blamed the United States for what they portrayed as Tehran's forced decision to suspend some pledges under the nuclear deal, while putting the onus on European powers to guarantee sanctions relief for Iran. China said the deal should continue to be implemented and called on all sides to exercise restraint and pursue dialog. The looming total ban on oil sales is likely to sharply increase the economic hardship for Iran's 80 million people. Finding a response is the biggest test yet for Rouhani, a pragmatist who has faced strong opposition from hardliners. (Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Jonathan Landay in WASHINGTON and Bozorgmehr Sharafedin in LONDON; Additional reporting by Steve Holland, Idrees Ali and Makini Brice in Washington, Ben Blanchard in Beijing, Babak Dehghanpisheh in Geneva, Sophie Louet in Paris, Francois Murphy in Vienna and Michelle Martin in Berlin; Writing by Peter Graff and Grant McCool; Editing by Mark Heinrich and James Dalgleish) Ill admit that if you look closely enough OK, maybe you dont even have to look all that closely youll see dust bunnies. And sand tracked in on the porch. Oh, yeah, and fingerprints on the windows. So, in other words, my house is not quite spotless. New Zealand introduced legislation Wednesday to make the South Pacific nation carbon neutral by 2050, although greenhouse gas emissions from the economically vital agricultural sector will not have to meet the commitment. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the bill would help New Zealand contribute to a goal of limiting average global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) over pre-Industrial Revolution levels. "The government is today delivering landmark action on climate change - the biggest challenge facing the international community and New Zealand," she said. The centre-left leader said avoiding the issue would be "gross negligence" and burden future generations. But the legislation does not explicitly outline how the economy will become carbon neutral by 2050, sparking criticism from environmental campaigners. Instead, it establishes an independent Climate Change Commission, which is charged with helping New Zealand reach the goal by setting five-yearly "emissions budgets". The agriculture sector, one of the country's top export earners, has been granted major concessions in the bill, which is set to pass parliament by the end of the year. Biological methane from livestock, the source of about one-third of New Zealand's greenhouse gases, has been exempted from the ambitious goal set for carbon dioxide. The legislation mandates a 10 percent reduction in biological methane by 2024. "Agriculture is incredibly important to New Zealand, but it also needs to be part of the solution," Climate Change Minister James Shaw said. "That is why we have listened to the science and also heard the industry and created a specific target for biogenic methane." But the Farmers Federation said even that target meant the government had "given up on pastoral farming". "Let's be clear, the only way to achieve reductions of that level, is to cut production -- there are no magic technologies out there waiting for us to implement," vice-president Andrew Hoggard said. Story continues "At this point in time we have no idea how to achieve reductions of this level, without culling significant stock numbers." While the government described its legislation as "binding", Greenpeace New Zealand said it did not include any way to enforce the targets, rendering it "toothless". "What we've got here is a reasonably ambitious piece of legislation that's then had the teeth ripped out of it," executive director Russel Norman said. "There's bark, but there's no bite," he said. HARARE, May 8 (Reuters) - Zimbabwes High Court on Wednesday declared Nelson Chamisa an illegitimate leader of the main opposition MDC party and ordered the movement to convene an extraordinary congress to choose a new leader after a month. The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) immediately said it would appeal the ruling and that it would press on with a planned leadership congress this month where it is expected to elect Chamisa as a permanent successor to founding leader Morgan Tsvangirai, who died in February 2018. Chamisa, 41, rose to become the MDC interim leader last year amid opposition from internal rivals, which split the party into two factions. He lost a presidential election to the ruling ZANU-PF's Emmerson Mnangagwa, but says that poll was rigged. High Court Judge Edith Mushore ruled that the process that took Chamisa to the helm of the MDC was unconstitutional and therefore null and void. The ruling followed a legal challenge from a party member to Chamisas leadership. But the MDC said the ruling was part of a wider plot by Mnangagwas ruling party to destabilize the main opposition. "We fundamentally disagree with the judgment. We reiterate that Emmerson Mnangagwa is illegitimate and no amount of diversionary tactics will change this fact," MDC spokesman Jacob Mafume told reporters. Chamisa has already been nominated for the presidency of the MDC by all the partys provincial assemblies and will be endorsed during a congress from May 24-26 in Gweru town, central Zimbabwe. In February this year, Chamisa and his MDC snubbed talks with Mnangagwa meant to try to resolve a political and economic crisis, saying any dialog with the president must be brokered by an independent outside mediator. (Reporting by MacDonald Dzirutwe Editing by Gareth Jones) Just over a year ago, we embarked on a mission to create the most optimal operating environment for IoT. One where billions of connected devices for the immediate and future economy could be managed, secured and optimized in an unprecedented manner. Even more, we developed Curiosity IoT through collaborative efforts with Ericsson to take the immense amounts of data flowing between those devices and quickly turn it into intelligence that could be used by customers to make near-instantaneous decisions for their businesses. Curiosity IoT is powered by Ericssons IoT Accelerator and Cloud Core platforms, which features a virtualized core network and IoT operating system specifically designed for software. Today, its more than alive and were thrilled to be accepting the coveted Leading Lights Award for Most Innovative M2M/IoT Strategy from Light Reading, one of the telecommunication industrys top information sources. At Ericsson, we are proud to be working with Sprint, a pioneer in IoT and see this award as a testament of our joint innovation excellence. Sprint is one of the first to market with a distributed core network and operating system built especially for IoT, powered by Ericssons IoT Accelerator platform. This partnership paves the way for low latency and the highest availability of critical data. With the capability to ingest enormous amounts of data while delivering immediate intelligence, our collaboration helps with tomorrows data management. So how are we taking this all and, along with a a strong ecosystem of other companies, moving the needle for actual use cases and businesses? And how is our dynamic vision poised to tackle the rapid evolution of IoT with the arrival of 5G? CURIOSITY IOT IN ACTION: REAL-WORLD SMART CITY + 5G ECOSYSTEM DEPLOYMENT IN PEACHTREE CORNERS Working with the local government in Peachtree Corners, Georgia, we are deploying Curiosity IoT today, in an American city, with real-world smart city infrastructure. What does this mean for some of the most innovative companies driving technology forward across society and business? Various types of autonomous services, powered by IoT and maximized by 5G, are moving from concept to reality through Curiosity IoT. Whether its vehicles or robots, the use of artificial intelligence and the need to navigate in real-world scenarios requires the power of the industrys first distributed, virtualized and dedicated IoT core/operating system, coupled with real infrastructure and applications that make it come alive. Ericssons deep expertise, specifically in managing complex IoT environments, is instrumental to orchestrating the massive amount of moving parts. Lets take an autonomous service vehicle, for example. Peachtree Corners is building an intelligent vehicle test track, powered by Curiosity IoT, that will enable some of the worlds top brands to test the most advanced automotive technologies in actual driving conditions from vehicle-to-vehicle communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure communication to fully autonomous operation. Autonomous Vehicles/Robots/Services Need Flexible, IoT-Dedicated Connectivity. From Sprint small cell deployment in city infrastructure (light fixtures, buildings, etc.), to Curiosity being designed to be truly access agnostic, autonomous machines can connect in virtually any way needed. From LTE CAT 1, CAT M, WiFi, Bluetooth, LoRa, LoRaWAN, satellite, wireline, 4G/LTE to coming 5G connectivity and more, Curiosity is as flexible as it gets. With the virtualized and distributed design of Curiosity, the network is now brought much closer to the vehicle and its data enabling high bandwidth, high availability and low latency connectivity needed to make an autonomous machine operate best in real-world scenarios. The arrival of 5G further reinforces this. Applications Enabling the Most Accurate, Real-World Navigation Micropositioning and HD Mapping. At the end of the day, the vehicle needs to be able to navigate like a human would through a city. That means pinpoint, instantaneous awareness of where it is. And that means reacting to everyday obstacles that pop up every minute from road blocks, construction, people or other moving things. Technologies like Micropositioning, which allows the machine to be connected to Curiosity through small cell connectivity in street lights and other fixtures, are extremely important. HD Mapping, from partners like MapBox, allow the vehicle to navigate and react to real-life scenarios learned on-the-fly. With Curiosity cutting down the distance between the vehicle (and its data), the applications that allow it to navigate and the machine learning processes that turn that data into intelligence about how the world really looks like, the vehicle can now operate with unprecedented precision. Most importantly, the company operating that vehicle will tap into intelligence from that test data to make critical decisions for their businesses, strategies and emerging technologies into the future. Thats the power of Curiosity and Ericsson. Brazil's devastated National Museum is broke and cannot afford storage for artifacts rescued from the ashes of the gutted building, its director said Tuesday. In a desperate plea for more funding, Alexander Kellner warned "there will be no more National Museum" in Rio de Janeiro unless the education ministry coughs up some cash. "We urgently need one million reais ($250,000) to be able to breathe," Kellner told reporters as the museum presented pieces from its Egyptian collection that survived the September 2018 fire. "We are having difficulties in the daily running of our institution -- professors don't have places to work, we don't have space to store pieces that we rescued. We can't just leave them on the ground. "Without the education ministry, there will be no more National Museum." A faulty air conditioning system sparked a fire that gutted Latin America's main natural history museum, destroying most of its collection. After the blaze, the education ministry released the equivalent of $2.5 million for emergency works to preserve the building's facade. But other public funds have not yet been disbursed. Kellner told AFP last month that the museum had received the equivalent of $280,000 in donations -- a fraction of the more than $950 million pledged for the reconstruction of Notre-Dame cathedral in Paris. The total cost of restoring the National Museum will reportedly be around 100 million reais. "With the amount of money that was raised for Notre Dame, if you give me one percent of that I can go very far," Kellner said Tuesday. The blaze wiped out much of the museum's collection, dealing a hard blow to the main showcase of Brazil's anthropological heritage and history. Aerial view of Brazil's National Museum taken in February 2019, five months after the building in Rio de Janeiro burnt down Some Egyptian antiquities were found amid the debris of Brazil's National Museum, destroyed by a fire in 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been questioned over their decision to allow a US film crew capture the royal baby's first recorded moments. Photo: Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been accused of giving Australia a slap in the face after they invited a US film crew to capture the royal babys first moments. The move is a controversial one due to the fact the America has no official ties to the Royal Family, and British media are typically given exclusive to access similar events. No Australian media were allowed to attend the intimate photocall - and other Commonwealth realms including Canada and New Zealand were also snubbed. Its a decision that has taken everyone by surprise and has not gone down well in some quarters, a source told Daily Mail. They also concluded the snub was like a slap in the face to countries who did not receive an invite. Interestingly, CBS - the US network chosen - employs one of Meghans newfound friends, Gayle King, who attended her lavish New York baby shower in February. CBS' Gayle King famously attended Meghan Markle's New York City baby shower earlier this year. Credit: RW/MediaPunch /IPX Gayle, who first gained fame as Oprahs longtime bestie, anchors CBS morning show and acts as one of its biggest on-screen talents. The first photos of baby Archie were released at 12.40pm London time, which was 9.40pm in Sydney, and 7.40am in New York. Meanwhile most Aussies would have missed the name announcement as that wasnt delivered until 2am in Sydney, which was midday in New York. The Duke and Duchess of Sussexs choice to keep many of the details surrounding their babys birth private initially polarised much of the press, and public. And while Baby Sussex was first believed to be born at the couples home, Frogmore Cottage, the delivery was later said to have happened at Londons Portland Hospital - far from the lenses of the worlds media. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry introduced baby Archie to the world on Wednesday. Photo: AAP Check out all the latest royal baby news here Got a story tip? Send it to lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com Or sign up to our daily newsletter here. Taliban militants stormed a US-funded aid group's central Kabul compound Tuesday, having targeted the organisation for promoting Western culture and the "inter-mixing" of men and women. At least five people were killed and dozens more wounded in the latest attack in the Afghan capital, which came even as US and Taliban officials were meeting in Qatar for peace talks. The assault began around midday (0730 GMT) with a large explosion at Counterpart International, a non-profit group funded primarily by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the US State Department. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said four attackers then entered the compound before Afghan security forces launched an hours-long clearance operation. At about 6:00 pm, Rahimi said "all the attackers have been killed." He said four civilians and one police officer were also killed, while about 200 people had been rescued from the area throughout the day. In a statement, Counterpart said it was working to confirm the well-being of its staff. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid quickly claimed responsibility for the attack, saying Counterpart International was targeted because it promoted the "inter-mixing" of men and women. The aid group mentored "Kabul admin workers in various aspects of brutality, oppression, terror, anti-Islamic ideology & promotion of western culture," Mujahid said on Twitter. Counterpart's website says it runs an Afghan civic engagement programme supporting women and other marginalised groups across Afghanistan. Among its stated goals is providing access to election information for Afghan voters, many of whom live in rural areas. The Taliban's hardline statement against Western values comes as the group meets with US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Doha in the latest round of talks aimed at finding a way out of Afghanistan's nearly 18-year old war. The Taliban are notorious for their treatment of women during their reign from 1996-2001, when the Islamist extremists kept women locked up in houses, barred them from getting an education and sometimes stoned them to death on flimsy allegations of adultery. The huge explosion shook nearby buildings and shattered windows, and Rahimi said at least 24 people were wounded -- including one foreign national. "We started running out of the building and while running outside, I heard small gunfire and the sound of grenades going off nearby," said Akbar Khan Sahadat, a prosecutor in the Attorney General's office which was close to the scene of the blast. John Bass, the US ambassador to Afghanistan, strongly condemned the attack against a US non-governmental organisation. "The targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists and supports the Afghan people," Bass said on Twitter. "For this, it is the target of senseless violence," he added, thanking local security forces for their rapid response. The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said the attack was "particularly deplorable, hitting civilians helping Afghans & taking place during Ramadan". - Difficult peace talks - Suhail Shaheen, the Taliban's political spokesman, told AFP earlier this week that the latest round of peace talks, currently taking place in Doha, had become bogged down over the issue of when foreign forces might withdraw in return for the Taliban security guarantees. The two foes are hammering out a deal that could see foreign forces leave Afghanistan in return for a ceasefire, talks between the government and the Taliban, and a guarantee the country will not be used as a safe haven for terror groups. Thomas Joscelyn, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and editor of its Long War Journal, said Khalilzad is only "pretending" the Taliban can credibly renounce international terrorism. "This is an obvious terrorist attack by the Taliban right inside Kabul -- they deliberately targeted a civilian facility," Joscelyn said on Twitter. The talks follow a massive peace summit in Kabul last week where President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban a ceasefire to begin on the first day of Ramadan -- but the insurgents refused. Last year however the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire at the end of Ramadan after Ghani declared a unilateral truce for eight days earlier in the month, in the first formal nationwide ceasefire since the US-led invasion of 2001. Since then, the insurgents have steadfastly refused to talk to Ghani, who they view as a US puppet, and talks thus far have cut out his government. According to Counterpart International's website, the organisation was founded in 1965 by Australian actress Betty Bryant Silverstein and a priest called Stan Hosie. emh-us-ds-wat/rox Smoke billows from a building during an attack by Taliban militants on a compound housing an international aid organisation in Kabul Map locating an attack in the Shar-e-Naw area in Kabul. A wounded Afghan man is brought on a stretcher to an Italian aid organization's hospital, as Afghan security forces battled an attack by Taliban militants on a compound housing an international aid organisation in Kabul Smoke rises from a building during the Taliban attack in Kabul The Royal navy rescued 27 Sub-Saharan migrants on board a dinghy off the coast of Mehdya in the Atlantic Ocean. Nine women were among the migrants two of whom are pregnant, a military source told le360 news portal. About 80 percent of illegal migrants stopped in 2018 in Morocco were mostly Sub-Saharans with 29,715 migrants saved at sea. Last year, Morocco foiled 89,000 illegal migration attempt highlighting the increasing challenge faced by the north African kingdom due to the worsening of security conditions in other transit countries in the Mediterranean notably Libya. Morocco has also launched two campaigns to offer residency permits to some 54,000 migrants granting them access to the job market as well as health and social services. OMG I would have loved to have seen this at a cinema! Reply Thread Link Same :( Can they announce the DVD already! Reply Parent Thread Link I'm going to see it Monday at the local Cinemark, see if a theater around you has a showing. Reply Parent Thread Link Oh, hey, idk if you're aware by now, but it's hitting blu-ray/dvd/digital on August 6th. It's being released by Shout Factory. Had this post bookmarked to come back to after I watched the doc. Reply Parent Thread Link I was not aware! Thank you!!! omg that's not even that far away Reply Parent Thread Link Yw! I'm really excited to see the special features because they'll be including all the stuff they cut from the doc. Reply Parent Thread Link EXCLUSIVE: Take an exclusive look at new high-definition #StarTrek #DS9 footage from the upcoming WHAT WE LEFT BEHIND @DS9Doc -- including a look at the first meeting between Commander Sisko and Captain Picard in restored 1080p! See more: https://t.co/UNbglSYmLm pic.twitter.com/EHG8gQRKJ9 TrekCore.com (@TrekCore) May 8, 2019 Another clip which got posted after I submitted: Reply Thread Link I can't believe he still has that ugly blue goatee but I guess it's okay since I'm getting to see the documentary on Monday. Reply Thread Link Lol, he's committed to the look. Have fun! I wish I was going! Reply Parent Thread Link Someone on tumblr did a list of all the episodes Garak was in and I was shocked it wasnt that many. Hes probably my favorite character and I love that the actor said he played Garak like he was into Julian. I want a DS9 blu-ray collection. Take my money and give it to me. Reply Thread Link He's not in many episodes but he is in most of the huge plot heavy ones of the show so he seems like he's in more. Reply Parent Thread Link I think his character worked better because he so rarely appeared but was so impactful when he did. Reply Parent Thread Link I felt the same when I found out that Louise Fletcher had only been in 14 episodes, yet Kai Winn is definitely a presence felt. Reply Parent Thread Link I just want to know when we get it in the UK. I was at the Con in the UK where they premiered it but I wasn't paying like, 50 to watch it when I already had other, Kate Mulgrew related things to pay for. Reply Thread Link Uhh i'm sorry this has nothing to do with the post but that guy looks like he's been eating out smurfs and fuck him for putting that image in my mind. Reply Thread Link uhh this isn't coming to the EU I feel attacked where's my series HD remaster, TAKE MY MONEY ALREADY I have the whole series on my Plex server, idek how many times I've watched DS9 through, I never tire of it Reply Thread Link ds9 is best trek and i will not listen if you say any other trek is better. Reply Thread Link GOT MY TICKETS THE DAY THEY WENT ON SALE I'M SO EXCITED Reply Thread Link I will be there, I will bring tissues, and honestly if they talk about Nana & Siddig's relationship the pre-teen girl inside me will be squealing Reply Thread Link I have got to get my shit together and BINGE Reply Thread Link UK Trekkies already got a chance to see it at Destination Star Trek Con last year with the cast on a big screen, and those of us who were UK backers saw the UK premier in the cinema the night before as well! But it should 100% go like widespread in cinemas here cos the more people who get into it, the better. New fans via Disco take notice! Sitting in front of Ira and his wife at the backer's cinema event was a trip lmao, I got to tackle him on Garak/Bashir and GET SOME WORDS IN. To which he agreed!!!! But that "new season" truly is a steaming pile of trash i'm still offended like over half a year later. Edited at 2019-05-08 09:31 pm (UTC) Reply Thread Link I was convinced by Star Trek Shitposting to go back and rewatch Voyager. Honestly with the right approach I can see why so many Trek fans really like it. That being said my heart will always belong to DS9 lmao. Everytime I rewatch it I end up with a new favourite character. Reply Thread Link Ira's goatee is something else. Reply Thread Link They talk about new fans coming aboard in the binge watching era it me really looking forward to seeing this next week. major kira <333 Reply Thread Link i still haven't watched ds9 and i think i should. i'm a big fan of babylon 5 and i heard that ds9 is somewhat similar so hopefully i'll love it lol. Reply Thread Link I think you'll love it!! Reply Parent Thread Link BP, the biggest oil producer in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, has just announced that it is expanding the development at one of its fields, unlocking additional production from its offshore U.S. platforms, while the American supermajors look to significantly boost their output from the hottest shale play, the Permian. Nearly a decade after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, BP bets big on the Gulf of Mexico to grow its global production of high-margin oil, as its executives say. To be sure, BP has recently secured shale assets in the United States after buying last year oil and gas assets in the Permian, the Eagle Ford, and Haynesville from BHP in what the UK supermajor described as a transformational acquisition and one of its biggest deals in the past two decades. But BP is not putting all its eggs in one (shale) basket. It continues to expand its Gulf of Mexico deepwater production, which requires a lot of upfront investment but whichonce operationalcan produce a steady stream of oil for years and decades to come, unlike shale production where well productivity declines over time. So BP believes that it is worth it to pay the hefty upfront cost for future deepwater production in the high-margin Gulf of Mexico. On Monday, the company announced that it had sanctioned development of the Thunder Horse South Expansion Phase 2 project in the deepwater Gulf of Mexico. BP will add two new subsea production units two miles to the south of the existing Thunder Horse platform with two new production wells in the near term. The project is expected to add an estimated 50,000 gross barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) of production at its peak at the existing Thunder Horse platform, with first oil expected in 2021, BP said. Related: Trumps Dangerous Oil Price Game The Thunder Horse expansion project also highlights our continued growth and momentum in a region that will remain a key part of BPs global portfolio for years to come, said Starlee Sykes, BPs regional president for the Gulf of Mexico and Canada. BP expects its Gulf of Mexico production to reach some 400,000 boe/d by the mid-2020s. Since 2013, BPs production in the region has risen from 200,000 boe/d to more than 300,000 boe/d at present. BP didnt reveal how much the latest expansion would cost, but according to The Times, the Thunder Horse investment is likely to be somewhere around the US$1.3 billion Atlantis Phase 3 development in the Gulf of Mexico, expected to add 38,000 boe/d at its peak and to come online in 2020. At the time when BP announced the Atlantis Phase 3 development in January this year, it also said that thanks to advanced proprietary seismic imaging and reservoir characteristics analysis, BP has now identified an additional 1 billion barrels of oil in place at its Thunder Horse field, and an additional 400 million barrels of oil in place at the Atlantis field. BPs Gulf of Mexico business is key to our strategy of growing production of advantaged high-margin oil, Bernard Looney, BPs Upstream chief executive said in January. Investment in U.S. federal deepwater Gulf of Mexico, where companies have driven down costs and breakevens since the downturn, is viewed as a potentially good hedge against the decline in well productivity in the shale business, people familiar with BPs decision making told Reuters. With the BHP asset acquisition, BP is done for the time being with shale deals, CEO Bob Dudley told CNBC last week. Related: China Set To Defy U.S. Sanctions On Iran The U.S. supermajors Exxon and Chevron, on the other hand, are heavily betting on the Permian to grow their shale production. Chevron now sees its Permian unconventional net oil-equivalent production rising to 600,000 bpd by the end of 2020, and to 900,000 bpd by the end of 2023. Exxon revised up its Permian growth plans to produce more than 1 million oil-equivalent barrels per day by as early as 2024, which would be an increase of almost 80 percent. While BP will be working to get the most of its shale assets onshore, its not overlooking the deepwater Gulf of Mexico with plans to raise its production by around 100,000 boe/d by the middle of the next decade. Although it cant compare with the Permian in terms of growth, total oil production in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico rose to a record last year. In the federal Gulf of Mexico, crude oil production increased by 61,000 bpd in 2018 to a record annual average of 1.74 million bpd, the EIA said last month. Producers brought online 11 projects last year, while another eight are expected to come on stream this year. The Federal Gulf of Mexico was the second-largest producing region in the U.S. in 2018, after Texas. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Iraq will soon finalize a large-scale, long-term deal for the development of oil fields in the South with Exxon and PetroChina. The 30-year contract will involve investments of US$53 billion and potential returns for Baghdad of as much as US$400 billion over its lifetime, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi told media this week. The deal has been in the making for four years and will involve the development of two oil fields in southern IraqNahr Bin Umar and Artawiand the construction of water supply infrastructure to southern fields in order to keep their production steady. As a result of the project, the combined production of Nahr Bin Umar and Artawi should hit half a million barrels of oil daily, from 125,000 bpd today. Talks now between the oil ministry and Exxon Mobil and PetroChina are focused on how to split profits if oil prices rise or decline, Abdul Mahdi told Reuters in response to a question regarding a potential date for the finalization of the contract. Iraq, OPECs second-largest oil exporter, has made no secret of its plans to considerably increase its oil production rates, despite the two OPEC+ production cut agreements, during which Iraq never really hit its allocated production quota. Raising production in the long term will be challenging, as an IHS Markit report from last year suggested, so the Exxon-PetroChina deal should be a very welcome development. Iraq, the study noted, has a production capacity for 7 million bpd, but chances are its actual production will only grow marginally over the next decade, to about 5 million bpd, and not just because of the still difficult political and economic situation. Iraqs oil industry has a purely technical problem: infrastructure and it is in this respect that the Exxon-PetroChina deals significance lies. Related: Irans Master Plan To Beat U.S. Sanctions As part of the deal, besides boosting production at Nahr Bin Umar and Artawi, Exxon and PetroChina will build several new export pipelines from southern fields to the coast, and develop a water injection project for the southern fields. Another part of the deal is the production and processing of up to 100 million cu ft of natural gas from the two fields. Iraq is a minor producer of natural gas and imports what it needs from neighbor Iran. This is not something that Washington is happy about, but as noted in an earlier analysis by Oilprice, the way to fight Irans considerable influence in Iraq is a gradual one, and the Exxon deal may well be part of it. In fact, the Iranian ambassador to the UK said that was exactly the case: according to him, the U.S. had allowed Iraq to continue trade with Iran on the condition that it will sign the southern fields contract with Exxon. The U.S. sanctions are against countries that buy Iranian oil only, and Iraq doesnt buy any Iranian crude, Reuters quoted a Baghdad official as saying. Prim Minister Abdul Mahdi also rejected the suggestion that the deal had anything to do with Iran-Iraq relations. "This issue (mega-project) started in 2015, and it has nothing to do with the sanctions imposed on Iran. This issue has to do with the Iraqi economy and the Iraqi oil sector," he said as quoted bi Xinhua. In any case, the deal is a win for all parties involved: it would help Iraq boost its production considerably, and it will also expand Exxons and PetroChinas presence in the Middle East. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: North Americas energy-focused private equity firms just saw a five-year low in fund closings and the lowest amount of total capital raised for energy investment since early 2016. During the 2014-2016 period of low oil prices, many energy-focused funds raised billions of U.S. dollars, aiming to invest the money in energy assets at bargain prices. But as oil prices increased from 2017 onwards, there have been few bargains left and asset valuations have increased. Add to this a mixed bag of investor returns over the past few years amid volatile prices, and energy-focused private equity funds had their worst quarterly performance in years in terms of capital raised and funds successfully closed. In the first quarter of 2019, private equity firms in North America closed four funds with a total capital of just US$1.4 billion, compared to a dozen funds closed with as much as US$4.8 billion raised in the first quarter of 2018, according to data from alternative assets data provider Preqin, cited by Bloomberg. Between 2014 and 2016, private equity firmsled by large companies including First Reserve, Warburg Pincus, and Riverstone Holdingsraised a total of US$132 billion in energy-focused funds, according to Preqin data. Related: Oil Prices Plunge As U.S.-China Trade War Escalates In 2018, contrary to initial expectations, private equity in natural resources investments jumped, Preqin said earlier this year. Fundraising by unlisted funds for investment in natural resources oil and gas, timberland, farmland, water, and mining set a fresh record in 2018. Energy-focused funds accounted for almost all of last years activity as 77 funds raised US$89 billion, with the vast majority of these funds targeting North American oil and gas plays, according to Preqin data from January. Preqins investor outlook for alternative assets in H1 2019 found that the natural resources industry has suffered from poor performance in recent years and investors are understandably disappointed with the returns they have received. However, high absolute returns are not the primary motivation for investors to commit capital to natural resources. The top reason for 66 percent of investors is portfolio diversification, while 39 percent cite a low correlation to other asset classes. High absolute returns were named by just 28 percent of investors in Preqins survey conducted in November 2018. Due to the commodity markets volatility and the slump in oil prices at the end of 2018, many of surveyed investors feel that performance may dip even further in 2019. Nearly a quarter of investors, or 24 percent, believe that their natural resources investments will perform worse over the next 12 months, compared with just 6 percent of those surveyed at the end of 2017, Preqins outlook showed. In terms of natural resources investment living up to expectations, 29 percent of investors felt at the end of 2018 that their investments fell short of expectations, up from 21 percent who were disappointed with returns at end-2017, but nowhere near the disappointed 62 percent of investors in 2015 and 54 percent in 2016, according to Preqins surveys between 2015 and 2018. Related: Irans Master Plan To Beat U.S. Sanctions The biggest challenges to returns generation in natural resources going forward are asset valuations, cited by 45 percent of investors, followed by commodity market volatility and the geopolitical landscape, with each of those two getting 31 percent of investors votes. For this year, energy will continue to dominate the investor commitments, with 86 percent of investors feeling that energy-focused funds will offer the most attractive opportunities. According to Preqin, two-thirds of investorsor 67 percentbelieve that the U.S. currently offers the best investment opportunities in natural resources, and is likely a result of the continuing expansion of the oil & gas industry in the country due to technological advancement and more stable or even reduced drilling/extraction costs. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: - Even though Arab Heavy was raised only by 40 cents per barrel, at +0.15 USD per barrel against Oman/Dubai average it moved to its highest level since December - The Asia-destined increases ranged from 40 cents to 1.2 USD per barrel, with Arab Super Light seeing the most substantial hike. - With Iranian volumes scraped off the Asian crude landscape, Saudi national oil company Saudi Aramco has hiked Asia-bound June-loading OSPs steeply to many-year highs. As a consequence, Brent Dated traded around $69.5 per barrel, whilst WTI traded in the $60.5-60.8 per barrel interval. After a brief spell of geopolitical extravaganza, Brent prices dropped back below $70 per barrel this week as the oil market started worrying about the fragile future of US-China trade talks, with threats of tariffs getting back to the agenda. The European market is still struggling to fully digest the issue of Urals contamination with the port of Ust-Luga coming back to uncontaminated loadings later this week, still leaving open the question of what to do with the dozen organic chloride-rich cargoes already on seas. This has made the sour shortage in Europe even more acute against the background of the United States making good on its promise not to issue any waivers beyond May 05, 2019. After a brief spell of geopolitical extravaganza, Brent prices dropped back below $70 per barrel this week as the oil market started worrying about the fragile future of US-China trade talks, with threats of tariffs getting back to the agenda. The European market is still struggling to fully digest the issue of Urals contamination with the port of Ust-Luga coming back to uncontaminated loadings later this week, still leaving open the question of what to do with the dozen organic chloride-rich cargoes already on seas. This has made the sour shortage in Europe even more acute against the background of the United States making good on its promise not to issue any waivers beyond May 05, 2019. (Click to enlarge) As a consequence, Brent Dated traded around $69.5 per barrel, whilst WTI traded in the $60.5-60.8 per barrel interval. 1. Saudi OSPs Forestall Further Appreciation of Middle Eastern Crude (Click to enlarge) (Click to enlarge) (Click to enlarge) - With Iranian volumes scraped off the Asian crude landscape, Saudi national oil company Saudi Aramco has hiked Asia-bound June-loading OSPs steeply to many-year highs. - The Asia-destined increases ranged from 40 cents to 1.2 USD per barrel, with Arab Super Light seeing the most substantial hike. - Even though Arab Heavy was raised only by 40 cents per barrel, at +0.15 USD per barrel against Oman/Dubai average it moved to its highest level since December 2011. - Saudi OSPs heading to NW-Europe were lifted by 0.5-1.1 USD per barrel, with Arab Extra Light seeing the biggest month-on-month increase (to a +1.45 USD per barrel premium against ICE Bwave). - Similarly, June-loading Mediterranean-bound prices were hiked by 0.5-1.1 USD per barrel, bolstered by the persisting robustness of Urals quotations. - After several months of effectively rolling over US-bound OSPs, Aramcos June-loading prices were dropped by as much as 30 cents per barrel (Arab Extra Light), with Light, Medium and Heavy cut by 10 cents per barrel. 2. Chinese Demand for W-African Crudes Wanes (Click to enlarge) - Chinas demand for West African barrels has dropped to a nine-month low against a tangible end to the Chinese stockpiling drive of the past couple of months. - A total of 40 vessels will reach China in May 2019, bringing the daily average import rate down by 0.3mbpd month-on-month to 1.31mbpd. - Chinese refiners have built up a safety buffer of crude as a sort of risk insulation tactic against the US decision not to prolong Iran waivers. - Yet there are other ways the US is responsible for the abating demand namely, USGC refiners seeking to replace missing Venezuelan volumes by heavy sweet Angolan grades. - Concurrently with the above, West African grades saw their position weaken by the widening Brent-Dubai spread that has reached 2 USD per barrel for the first time this year. 3. Alberta Seeks Ways to Punish Anti-Pipeline British Columbia (Click to enlarge) - The new Jason Kenney-led Alberta government has proclaimed the turn off taps act into law, whereby it reserves the authority to stop oil and gas exports to British Columbia. - Kenneys move reflects the growing vexation of Alberta authorities with BC objecting tot he 590kbpd Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. - The Preserving Canadas Economic Prosperity Act (turn-off-the-taps act in laymens parlance) would require crude producers to obtain licenses so as to be able to move crude outside of the province. - It would be the Alberta governments discretion to approve of crude shipments towards BC, hinting at a potential risk that it might alter the crude and products flow so as to pressurize Vancouver. - This creates a risk of BC seeing even higher fuel prices, reliant on Alberta refined products as it is currently, despite having the most expensive fuel prices in North America already. - After the Canadian National Energy Board reaffirmed its support for the Trans Mountain line, it will be the federal government that will ultimately tie the Gordian knot of intra-province feuds. 4. US Grants Venezuela Sanction Waivers to Curaco (Click to enlarge) - The US Treasury granted Curacao a waiver which would exempt the Dutch islands in the Caribbean from the operation of Venezuelan sanctions. - Curacaos 320kbpd Isla Refinery is operated by the Venezuelan PDVSA under a long-term lease yet in the past months it has been barely operating due to a lack of feedstock. - The authorities of Curacao are actively searching for someone else to take over the refinery once the PDVSA lease contract runs out in December 2019, to no avail so far. - The Saudi-owned Motiva was on the tapis for the deal, yet it has withdrawn its interest after the parent company deemed it unwise to invest in projects that might influence the long-mooted Saudi Aramco IPO. - By getting the US waivers, Curacao can now can continue seeking for new partners without incurring the risk of breaching US sanctions on Venezuela, at least until the waivers run out on January 15, 2020. - Curacao has made its political preferences clear by allowing the US to store Venezuela-destined humanitarian aid on its territory. 5. Mexico Hikes K-factors for May Cargoes (Click to enlarge) (Click to enlarge) - PMI Comercio International, the trading arm of the Mexican national oil company PEMEX, has increased all but one of its K-factors, an instrument used to adjust its official prices. - The K-factor for USGC-destined Maya bounced back into positive territory with a 0.9 USD per barrel month-on-month jump (to +0.55), whilst Isthmus and Olmeca saw only minor alterations. - Against the background of a global shortage of heavy crudes, Mayas K-factor for Europe and Middle East rose 1.85 USD per barrel to a 3.50 USD per barrel discount. - The Maya appreciation effect was evident in Asia Pacific prices, too, which were hiked by 1.55 USD per barrel m-o-m to a 5.80 USD per barrel discount. - Mexican crude exports have averaged 1.23mbpd in 2019 YTD, compared to last years 1.18 annual average. 6. Vietnam, Indonesia buy First-ever US cargo (Click to enlarge) - Last week Vietnam received its first-ever US cargo, a 1MMbbl of WTI, with BP supplying the volume aboard the Suezmax vessel Almi Horizon. - Officials at the Binh Son Refining (BSR) company claimed they have bought the cargo for testing, enticed by WTIs price competitiveness and fitting quality parameters. - Concurrently, Indonesia is also on the brink of receiving its first-ever US cargo, with the Aframax vessel China Dawn expected to reach the Indonesian port of Cilacap June 06. - The Indonesian NOC Pertamina is buying WTI Midland off Dated Brent, whilst similarly to BSR checking the refinery feasibility and pricing competitiveness of the crude. - US crude exports to Southeast Asia in May 2019 were triple of the 2018 average (at 0.39mbpd), with new customer demand hiking the total crude moved there to more than 12 Mbbls. - Even traditional US buyers as Singapore have been experimenting lately for instance, by taking a 550kbbls Alaskan North Slope cargo aboard MT Aristaios, a rarity in the region. 7. ExxonMobil Wants Larger Share of UAE Pie (Click to enlarge) - After ADNOC announced the start of its second oil and gas exploration licensing round, ExxonMobil reached out to the UAE state-owned oil company ADNOC to strengthen its positions. - The second licensing round will be launched in Q4 2019 and the results will be announced in the first months of next year. - ExxonMobil is using its Permian Basin experience to demonstrate it can facilitate ADNOCs long-term goal of becoming gas-independent (and potentially even becoming an exporter). - ADNOC CEO Sultan al-Jaber claimed they are keen to strenghten the (Exxon) relationship, all the more so as the 2nd licensing round will be replete with unconventional projects. - ExxonMobil already has a 28 percent stake in the Upper Zakum field, having committed to the 0.75mbpd capacity project in 2006. Turkey said that it plans on drilling for natural gas in Cypriot waters, raising tension in the region and drawing rebukes from the European Union and the United States. The Eastern Mediterranean has emerged as a major source of natural gas in recent years, with multiple discoveries announced in several countries over the past decade. The first few discoveries came in Israeli waters in 2009 and 2010 the Tamar and Leviathan fields. In 2011, the Aphrodite gas field was discovered in Cypriot waters. Noble Energy, a Houston-based company, was the main company in all three of those discoveries. Italian oil giant Eni took things to a new level with its Zohr discovery in 2015, which was roughly twice as large as the Leviathan field. Eni fast-tracked development and brought it online at the end of 2017. A series of other smaller discoveries have also been reported in the region over the years. The flow of gas has led to all sorts of hype and dreams. Egypt wants to become a regional and global gas player, involved in the production transport and export of natural gas. Security analysts have hoped that gas would bind the restive Middle East together, with pipelines intertwining Israel, Jordan and Egypt. The growing economic and trade relationship, and the regional interconnections, would tamp down conflict, the thinking went. Related: EIA Crude Draw Arrests Oil Price Crash More far-fetched projects have been trumpeted as well. The EastMed pipeline has been floated as a silver bullet to multiple problems. The proposed project would link up several gas fields in the Eastern Mediterranean and move gas to Greece and Italy. The project had the feature of opening up large markets for export, adding a major source of supply for Europe while also reducing Russias leverage as a supplier to the European Union. The only problem is that the project would be immensely expensive, technically difficult and politically fraught. The project is liked in certain European capitals and in Washington, but it has gained little traction. In fact, much of the promise that natural gas could be the solution to geopolitical strife in the Middle East and in the Eastern Mediterranean has turned out to be hollow. That is especially true when it comes to Turkey and Cyprus. If anything, gas has exacerbated the existing multi-decade conflict. Last year, as Cyprus stepped up efforts to develop its gas reserves, Turkey sent warships to block Eni from drilling. Turkey claims that Northern Cyprus (represented by Turkish Cypriots) has the right to drill in the area. The conflict not only centers on the division of Cyprus and overlapping territorial claims, but it is also the latest point of contention between Turkey and Greece, and even Turkey and the European Union. In other words, gas is the latest vehicle for longstanding fights over sovereignty. Instead of gas as a unifier, helping to tamp down conflict, gas is opening old wounds and leading to new conflicts. The latest twist in this saga came in early May, when Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said we are starting drilling in the region, according to Reuters. We will conduct drilling in areas of Turkeys continental shelf and we are starting our drilling work at points identified by Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa, Cavusoglu said in Northern Cyprus. After trying to deter international companies and Cyprus from drilling, Turkey is pressing forward with its own plans. Related: Iraq Close To Signing Mega $53 Billion Oil Deal That was met with condemnations from both the U.S. and the EU, one of the few issues the two have agreed upon as of late. The United States is deeply concerned by Turkeys announced intentions to begin offshore drilling operations in an area claimed by the Republic of Cyprus as its Exclusive Economic Zone, State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said on Sunday. Its unclear what happens next. [W]hat happens if it actually makes a hydrocarbon discovery? Turkey is clearly trying to create a fait accompli with potentially immense consequences, Cyprus Natural Hydrocarbons Company CEO Charles Ellinas told New Europe. Strong US and EU support, and support by other East Med and friendly countries, is very useful, but I do not believe it is enough to stop Turkeys actions. When asked if Turkey might impact Cyprus deals with Eni, Total and ExxonMobil, Ellinas said: I do not think so. These companies are used to work in difficult environments and Turkeys actions will not deter them from their plans unless, of course, they affect the safety of their staff and contractors as happened with the Turkish frigates stopping ENIs drilling rig last year. By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Chevron is arguably the best of the integrated super-major oil companies. For the past 20 years, Chevron has delivered superior returns to shareholders, outperforming the S&P 500 for most of that period. The past five years have been an anomaly as the plunge in oil prices caused performance to lag, but Chevron still outperformed its peers during that period. I have learned to trust Chevrons management. However, I had some reservations about Chevrons agreement to acquire Anadarko at a nearly 40 percent premium. The deal was great for Anadarko shareholders. Analysts at Robert W. Baird recently ranked Anadarko 48 out of 50 oil producers in the Delaware portion of the Permian by average revenues per well. Baird analysts noted last month that Anadarko has consistently ranked as one of the worst productivity per well companies in the Delaware. The company hasnt generated annual positive free cash flow since 2014. So Anadarko shareholders really hit the jackpot with this deal. Chevron shareholders werent as thrilled with the acquisition. Since the original deal was announced, Chevron shares have shed 7 percent. Occidental Petroleum had made a bid for Anadarko, but the company opted for Chevrons offer, citing unspecified structural issues with the Occidental offer. But Occidental didnt give up. Anadarko shareholders still had to approve the Chevron offer. Before they could do so, Occidental sweetened the pot. The current offer from Occidental is for $59.00 in cash and 0.2934 of a share of Occidental common stock per share of Anadarko common stock. That is equal to $76.51 a share at the most recent market close, and a premium of more than 20 percent to Chevrons offer. Further, the new deal doesnt require approval by Occidentals shareholders, as the original offer had. Billionaire Warren Buffett jumped into the fray as well. Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway announced that it would invest $10 billion in Occidental Petroleum to aid in sealing the deal. But Buffetts help comes at a high price for Occidental. Berkshire Hathaway would receive 100,000 shares of preferred stock that pay a dividend of 8 percent a year. Occidentals common stock yields 5.4 percent. Related: STEO: Brent To Average $70 This Year Chevron and Occidental are really after Anadarkos Permian Basin properties, and Occidental announced that it already has a deal to sell some of Anadarkos international assets. In a press release, Occidental announced: In connection with Occidentals proposal to acquire Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, it has entered into a binding agreement to sell Anadarkos Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique and South Africa assets to Total S.A. for $8.8 billion. The sale is contingent upon Occidental entering into and completing its proposal to acquire Anadarko, and would be expected to close simultaneously or as soon as reasonably practicable afterwards. The assets to be sold to Total represent approximately 6 percent of the expected net production and approximately 7 percent of the cash flow after capital expenditures of Occidental in 2020 pro forma for the acquisition of Anadarko. The proceeds of the sale would fund part of the acquisition, as would Buffetts investment. Both Chevron and Occidental projected multi-billion dollar synergies from the acquisition. Rystad Energy recently noted that Andarkos Permian wells produce less oil and gas per-foot drilled than either Chevron or Occidental. Both companies believe they can substantially improve on the performance of these wells. Anadarko announced this week that it views the current Occidental offer as the superior proposal. Chevron has until the end of the day on May 10 to come back with a counteroffer or withdraw from the process. Related: Iraq Close To Signing Mega $53 Billion Oil Deal As someone who has recommended Chevron to investors many times, I dont want to see them get involved in a bidding war. There is no question they could outbid Occidental, but that would consume a chunk of the synergies. Further, if Anadarko walks away from the Chevron offer, they will owe Chevron a $1 billion termination fee as required by the Chevron Merger Agreement. In a recent article, I indicated that Chevron was likely to win the bidding war for Anadarko Petroleum. However, I underestimated what Occidental was willing to pay to get this deal done. This price is now steep, so I think Chevron should walk away from the negotiating table. It seems likely now that Occidental will prevail. I think Occidental shareholders will be the biggest losers in the deal, as they paid a steep price. Anadarko is a clear winner. But Chevron is set to walk away with a $1 billion consolation prize. Further, Chevron shares are discounted relative to where they were before the original deal was announced. So if Occidental does win out, there is a good chance for a short-term rally for Chevron. And if Chevron still wants to make an acquisition in the Permian, there are plenty of other opportunities. By Robert Rapier More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: French automaker PSA Peugeot is undertaking the final touches before starting production in its Kenitra factory, worth 557 million. Head of the Central Bank had said that the factory will open by mid-2019. Peugeots CEO Carlos Tavares will attend the opening of the state-of-the-art factory, which will mark the return for the companys production in Africa. Hiring was conducted and cars are expected to be assembled at the factory by July at the latest, Leconomiste daily reports. The factory is planned to release 20,000 units in 2019 before reaching the annual capacity of 90,000 vehicles. By 2020, the plant will be able to produce 100,000 cars but the maximum capacity would be 200,000 cars and motorbikes. The output will be exported to Africa, the Middle East and Turkey with a local sourcing rate of 60 percent. One dirham in two received out of industrial exports are generated by the car industry sector, which topped Moroccos industrial exports in 2018 taking 44.5%. With 402,000 cars produced in 2018, Morocco overtook South Africa as the continents first car manufacturer. Renault is now producing 12% of its cars globally in its Tangier factory. Chinas Byd, is also on its way to launch production of electrical vehicles in the country. Oil prices have fallen sharply on fears of a global economic slowdown, but the markets are overlooking the possibility of a serious outage in Libya as civil war drags on. It may be hard to maintain attention to any one conflict, with so many now raging around the world. Last week, the Trump administration was all-in on Venezuela. But with the coup failing, Washington has turned its sights on Iran. However, more than a month after the Libyan National Army (LNA) assaulted Tripoli, defying the UN and the international community, the fighting continues. The head of the militia, Khalifa Haftar, had hoped for a swift conquest, but instead has run into a stalemate. Despite the advantage of access to high-tech munitions seemingly supplied in violation of the UN arms embargo on Libya, the LNA does not seem to have the strategy, logistics or manpower sufficient to defeat the GNA and the various western-Libya militia that are supporting it against Haftar, Standard Chartered wrote in a report. The GNA refers to the Government of National Accord, the internationally-recognized government in Tripoli. As of now, the humanitarian crisis is growing worse. Hundreds of people have been killed and more than 60,000 have fled. The World Health Organization is sounding the alarm on a shortage of medical supplies, and the potential for a cholera outbreak as violence continues in the country. The longer the war lasts, the more likely the countrys oil flows will breakdown. As Chairman of the Libyan National Oil Corp., I cannot foresee any scenario, other than an immediate ceasefire, in which Libyas oil exports are not severely impacted by the conflict, Mustafa Sanalla, head of Libyas National Oil Corp., wrote in an op-ed for Bloomberg Opinion. Related: Theres Tremendous Room For Growth In Offshore Oil & Gas In fact, he says that the fighting has already impacted Libyas oil sector. On April 10, a bomb hit one of the NOCs oil facilities outside of Tripoli, sparking a fire. Meanwhile, oil fields in the countrys south are experiencing shortages, Sanalla said. The fields need fuel and other supplies in order to maintain operations. An oil worker was abducted near Sirte, while others have suffered from threats. The assault takes a toll on the workforce. The LNA has even seized an airport at one of the NOCs oil export terminals, and the militia has tried to commandeer vessels in order to use them in the military campaign. While we are as determined as ever to oppose attempts to depict NOC as partisan in this conflict, we are in no position to resist this sort of military pressure, Sanalla warned. But it gets worse. Sanalla said that the NOCs oil has begun to be sold illegally. If various factions begin funding their operations from the illicit sale of oil, civil war and instability may only grow worse. With the LNA and GNA at war, ISIS militants can regroup and strengthen, Sanalla said. U.S. President Trumps about-face has arguably made things much worse. The policy of the U.S. government had been to support diplomatic negotiations, and Washington has gone to lengths to avoid picking sides. Trump, out of nowhere, lent his support to Haftars assault on Tripoli after taking a phone call with him. That has muddled the international response to the fighting and granted a sense of legitimacy to the LNAs attack on Tripoli. Ultimately, reconciliation, or even a cease-fire, has become increasingly unlikely. Related: Oil Prices Plunge As U.S.-China Trade War Escalates Ultimately, Libyas success at restoring oil production to over 1 million barrels per day (mb/d) and reaching a multi-year high of 1.26 mb/d in March rested on the fact that neither side had control over Libyas oil system. Sanalla said that this dual-key approach was critical an arrangement in which the LNA guaranteed security at ports and oil fields, and the GNA held a monopoly on the legal authority over oil exports. With those powers divided, neither side could seize control of the entire system. If the GNA tried to withhold payments to east of the country, the LNA could block the ports. If the LNA tried to export oil on its own, the GNA could withhold payments. The civil war puts the entire system at risk. [W]e think it unlikely that the arrangement can survive a protracted stalemate and the associated weakening of the LNA, Standard Chartered wrote in its report. In our view there is a high risk that Libyan outages could add another 1mb/d loss to the 1.9mb/d y/y reduction from Iran and Venezuela. The latest concern for oil traders is the dramatic escalation of the U.S.-China trade war, and for good reason. But while the global economy could be hit with a trade shock, the physical market for crude is tightand in danger of more disruptions. By Nick Cunningham, Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Arab residents of the oil-rich Deir Ezzor area in Syria have been protesting for weeks against the U.S.-backed Kurdish forces that control the region east of the Euphrates river, with protests becoming violent in recent days and angry protesters disrupting convoys of truckloads of oil from the nearby fields. The protests, which started at the end of April, call for the end of the Kurdish rule in the areawhich the Arabs say is an occupationand the Kurdish forces and militias to stop selling the oil from the area and stop robbing the Arab population of its oil. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), backed by the United States expelled Islamic State from the Deir Ezzor area at the end of 2017, and have been in control of the oil-rich province since then. The Arab residents in the area, however, want the Kurdish forces to stop selling the oil pumped from Deir Ezzor to the Syrian government, among other things. Arabs in eastern Syria also want end of discrimination in leadership positions and the end of compulsory conscription of young men from the area. According to tribal leaders and residents who spoke to Reuters, the Arab resentment toward the Kurdish forces has grown in recent weeks. Risks of a more violent confrontation are growing and SDFs response to the Arab demands could determine if the situation will escalate, analysts tell Reuters. Related: Saudi Arabia Hikes Oil Prices For Asian Buyers As Supply Crunch Hits In August 2018, the second-largest oil field in Syria, the Tanak field in the Deir Ezzor region, resumed operations nearly a year after U.S.-backed predominantly Kurdish forces recaptured the field from ISIS. The Tanak field, which hosts around 150 wells and the capacity to produce up to 40,000 bpd, was captured from the Islamist militants by the SDF in November of 2017, following fierce clashes with ISIS on the eastern bank of the Euphrates river. Less than a month before recapturing the Tanak oil field, SDF had wrested control over the al-Omar oil field in eastern Syria from the Islamic State. Al-Omar is Syrias largest oil field, producing around 30,000 bpd before the civil war. After 2011, however, Al-Omar had fallen into the hands of Islamic State, which was at one point making US$5.1 million in monthly oil sale revenues on the black market. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: China imported around 800,000 bpd of crude from Iran in Aprilthe highest amount that Irans top oil customer purchased since August last yearas Chinese refiners rushed to buy Iranian oil ahead of the expiry of the U.S. sanction waiver at the beginning of May, Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing ship tracking data from Refinitiv. The United States ended the sanction waivers for all Iranian customers in a move that caught the oil market off guard as analysts were widely expecting that the Trump Administration would extend at least some of the waivers in order to keep oil and gasoline prices in check. Irans oil customers were only guessing if the United States would extend the waivers that expired last week, so all Iranian clients, including its biggest customer China, rushed in to procure cheap Iranian oil in March and April. In March, the biggest oil importers in AsiaChina, India, Japan, and South Koreacollectively bought 1.57 million bpd of oil from Iran, a 36-percent surge over February. China alone imported 541,134 bpd of Iranian oil, according to government data and trade sources compiled by Reuters. In April, China stepped up its purchases of Iranian oil from March and saw its imports from Iran at an eight-month high. The surge in Iranian imports resulted in China setting a new monthly oil import record, despite the fact that there was refinery maintenance and fuel demand was lukewarm, analysts tell Reuters. Total Chinese crude oil imports rose by 11 percent year on year in April 2019, to reach 10.64 million bpd, according to data from the Chinese General Administration of Customs, calculated by Reuters. State-run refineries bought a lot of Iranian crude oil to stockpile ahead of the sanction waivers expiry, and this was the key reason for the record Chinese imports last month, Wang Zhao, head of crude oil research at Sublime China Information, told Reuters. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Saudi Aramco, which has an ambitious plan to grow its natural gas business, is considering investing in the Marcellus shale gas assets of Norways Equinor in what would be the first-ever foray of Saudi Arabias oil giant into the natural gas business outside the Kingdom, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday, quoting people familiar with the plans. Aramco is mulling over investing in Equinors Marcellus position either via a joint venture or by acquiring a stake in the operations, according to Bloombergs sources, who noted that talks between Aramco and Equinor are still at an initial stage. The Saudi state oil company may also team up with other oil firms to get U.S. shale gas acreage, the sources told Bloomberg. Equinor, for its part, operates assets in the Marcellus, in the Eagle Ford, and in the Bakken in the U.S. The Norweian firm wants to add more acreage to its Appalachian gas assets, head of strategy Al Cook told Bloomberg earlier this year, while Equinor is also said to be considering selling some or all its operations in the Eagle Ford. Aramco is in talks with many partners for a potential joint venture or partnership in order to grow its international gas position, chief executive Amin Nasser said last month. Related: STEO: Brent To Average $70 This Year In January this year, Nasser told Reuters in an interview that the oil firm was looking to spend billions of U.S. dollars on natural gas acquisitions in the United States as part of Aramcos strategy to bolster its gas business and become a global natural gas player. At the end of February, Nasser said that Saudi Arabia aims to export as much as 3 billion cubic feet of gas per day by 2030 as part of its goal to boost the international footprint of its natural gas business. In November 2018, Nasser said that Aramco, already a top global oil producer but not as strong in gas production, will boost efforts to grow its natural gas output, from both conventional and unconventional reserves. Saudi Aramcos gas development program is expected to attract as much as US$150 billion in investments over the next decade, Nasser said. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: The U.S. State Department will complete an environmental impact review for the now notorious US$8-billion Keystone XL oil pipeline even if a federal appeals court dismisses the November 2018 ruling of a Montana judge that effectively blocked work on the project, CBC reports, quoting government attorneys. Washington filed an appeal against the November ruling last month in an attempt to get at least some work done on the pipeline that will carry some 830,000 bpd from Alberta through Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska, where it would connect to the existing pipeline network that goes on to the Gulf Coast. The ruling required the State Department to once again review the projects environmental impact documentation, which opponents of Keystone XL considered a victory. In the appeal, however, the government attorneys argued that a second review of the environmental impact documentation of the project was meaningless because President Trump had issued TransCanadanow TC Energya new permit earlier this year, several months after the Montana district court ruling. The new permit sought to go around the obstacles that made the basis for the lawsuit against the project, basically boiling down to an incomplete assessment of the potential environmental damages a spill could lead to. Outside the environmental concern space, opponents main argument is that U.S. refiners do not need this much pipeline capacity in the long term, despite a shortage of pipeline capacity in Alberta right now that is forcing producers to ship their oil south by rail. Meanwhile, the Canadian authorities in January approved some preparatory work on the project, such as clearing trees and foliage around parts of the route of the pipeline but this is nowhere near what TC Energy and the U.S. government, not to mention Albertan oil producers, want to see. Sadly for them all, TC Energy would not be able to begin construction works on Keystone XL this year as a result of the legal challenges, the company said in its latest earnings call earlier this week. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Nigerian music star, Davido has reacted the arrest of his uncle, Senator Ademola Adeleke, who recently contested for the governorship elections in Osun state. KanyiDaily had reported that Senator Adeleke was arrested in Abuja by the Nigerian police on Monday, May 6th and will be arraigned in court on Tuesday, May 7th. In reaction, Davido took to his Instagram page to say that he has given up on democracy, as it is now a crime to win elections in Nigeria. View this post on Instagram Stay strong Uncle D ! GOD IS GREAT AND HE IS THE ONLY ONE THAT HAS A SAY! @ademolaadeleke_01 A post shared by Davido Adeleke (@davidoofficial) on May 7, 2019 at 2:37am PDT Davido lamented about the current ordeal being faced by his uncle, Ademola Adeleke, who recently contested for the governorship elections in Osun state. He wrote: President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday approached the United Nations (UN) for help in his battle to make the country safe for all. He urged the world body and the international community to support the Federal Government in addressing the insecurity that has become a major concern to all. The President decried the prevailing condition of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at the various camps across the troubled states. Buharis plea came on a day the UN poured cold water on Nigerias bid to take a permanent seat at the U.N. Security Council. The President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Ms. Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces, who arrived in the country on Monday, said the much-talked about reform aimed at opening up the Council may be a mirage after all. Her reason: there is no political will to see the reform to a logical conclusion. On Nigerias rising security challenges, Buhari said: The condition of IDPs in the country is pathetic. We have at least a million children who neither know their parents nor where they come from. The President also pointed out the damage to infrastructure, particularly in the Northeast, which he said will need international help to restore. Bridges have been blown up, schools, hospitals, churches, mosques, and other buildings have been destroyed. All these will be rehabilitated, and every form of international help is welcome, the President noted. On the recharge of Lake Chad through inter-basin water transfer from Congo River, Buhari said climate change was quite real, noting that no fewer than 30 million people have been affected by the shrinking lake, with at least half of them being Nigerians. He stressed the role the international community needed to play in the endeavour, since recharging the lake is beyond the financial power of the affected countries. On the lack of political will to push through reform in the UN Security Council, Ms. Espinosa Garces said it was bogged down by divisive bickering. The 15-member UN Security Council has only five permanent members United States, (U.S., Russia, China, France and the United Kingdom (UK). The remaining 10 are non-permanent members that are chosen yearly for two-year terms, distributed on a regional basis as follows: five for African and Asian states; one for Eastern European states; two for the Latin American and Caribbean states; and two for Western European and other states. The reform would have expanded the permanent seat, Nigeria has been jostling for Africas envisaged sole seat in the Council. Ms. Espinosa said: Regarding the question of UN Security Council reform, I have to say very honestly that this is one of the most complex, divisive and contentious negotiations processes at the UN. As you know, the reform of the Security Council is under the responsibility of the UNGA, and I have appointed two co-chairs to lead the works of the inter-governmental negotiations that have been taking place for 10 years now. The process of reforms started 25 years ago and the mandate to negotiate the reform came 10 years ago when I was the Ambassador of Ecuador at the UN. And at the time I thought we had a resolution to start the negotiations and with a great naivety, I thought this is going to be a process that will, perhaps be for two or three years. Ten years later, I have to say that there is no consensus, there are very different views and positions regarding the reform process. As we know, we need consensus to advance reforms. This is one of the issues where my work as the president is to lead to make sure that we agree on the fundamentals to ensure that the process is inclusive and transparent. That the outcome of the reform is going to depend very much on the political will of member states themselves. Then, of course, the African position is well known and there are also different groups that also have different positions; we are trying to bring them together and find a common denominator. And the common denominator is that the Security Council has to deliver more and better because they have the main responsibility to deliver on peace and security agenda of the organisation. Speaking on the humanitarian needs around the Lake Chad area and the role of the UN, the UNGA President said the global body would deploy its capacities in conjunction with governments of the Lake Chad Basin to improve humanitarian aid to meet the peoples need. She said: I have specific numbers on how much, specific coverage and people but everything we do is in strict and close coordination with the governments of the Lake Chad Basin. As you know, the UN has signed a five-year UN cooperation framework with Nigeria whereby $4.5 million will, channelled there, according to the Nigerian governments priorities. Ms. Espinosa, who is UNGAs 73rd President, was also quoted to have praised President Buharis leadership of ECOWAS, and of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, pledging to call the attention of the international community to the hurting effects of the Lake Chad problem, and other issues raised by the Nigerian leader. According to a Presidency statement issued at the end of the meeting at the State House, the UNGA President also praised Nigeria for rehabilitating the UN building in Abuja, which was destroyed by Boko Haram insurgents during an attack in August 2011. She commended Nigeria for being a key part of the UN system, saying the country was well respected in the global body, as Nigeria is a major troops contributor to peace keeping operations, and a major part of the human rights architecture. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has again thrown a jibe at President Muhammadu Buhari over a statement credited to him that the lacks of jobs for the youths has made kidnapping a new occupation for youths. In a statement on Tuesday by the spokesman for the PDP, Kola Ologbondiyan, the party again accused President Muhammadu Buhari of not having solutions to the problems plaguing the nation. The statement said, This self-confession by Mr. President is equally an admission that he has no solutions, and points to the ugly situation that would continue to confront the nation, if the stolen presidential mandate is not retrieved in the courts. Is it not appalling that at a time when other world leaders are leading their youths to constructive and productive ventures and developing their nations, Nigerian youths are being pushed into situations of anger, frustration and recourse to criminality? Under President Buhari, our national economy has continued to slide; over 30 million Nigerians have lost their jobs and basic means of livelihood; businesses have continued to shut down; cost of essential goods and services have persistently soared, while purchasing power of citizens worsens. ALSO READ: YarAdua, an advocate of rule of law, says Atiku It is more disheartening that instead of finding solutions, Mr. President resorted to rhetoric and begging the question to the extent of describing criminality as a new occupation and a business. Moreover, Nigerians were shocked at President Buharis insensitivity to the victims of the bloodlettings, kidnapping, banditry and other acts of violence in the country when he trivialized and made a joke of the insecurity in the land by stating that losing weight is a sign that the Inspector General of Police, Adamu Mohammed, was effectively tackling the security issues. It is most heartbreaking that at the time President Buhari was making a joke on the security situation, bandits were having a field day in communities in Zamfara State where they reportedly killed over 50 Nigerians, while many more compatriots are still held hostage by kidnappers in forests in various parts of our country. Such attitude to governance, especially on issues that have to do with the lives of Nigerians, is completely unacceptable and must be condemned by all, the statement added. Repeat after me! To be together with who I want, a family of Romanian witches chant via a video call to a client in India paying for a love spell. The session, in a decorated shed in a back yard 15 km (9 miles) north of Bucharest, is one of many consultations the family holds online, alternating them with rituals livestreamed on Facebook to build up their digital following. A truly powerful witch can solve problems from a distance, explains 20-year-old witch Cassandra Buzea. Its not the phone or Facebook that are doing the magic. Its the words that were saying, the rituals that were doing and its enough to look each other in the eye for the ritual to work. The power of the Internet has allowed Romanias busy witch community to gradually migrate their ancient practices onto the Web. Witchcraft has long been seen as a folk custom in the eastern European country, and many of its estimated 4,000 witches are luring customers from Europe, Asia and the United States. Buzea said it was the younger generation that had persuaded the old about the powers of the selfie, and her mother was quickly on board. Nothings changed, the craft is the same, but now its much easier for us to be in contact with clients from other countries, said Mihaela Minca, who taught her daughter Buzea the family craft. They would not disclose how much they earn but said a tarot reading starts at 50 euros ($56.11). However, many of the special rituals, often to do with love, health or money, last weeks and can run into the hundreds. The witches also said they had recently turned their attention to politics, joining anti-corruption protests. Minca said she connected online with nine witches and wizards from across Europe to the United States, seeking to put a curse on Romanian lawmakers seen by witches as corrupt. Streamed online, the group had performed a mass ritual simultaneously with their overseas associates, against those who dont do their jobs, those who have bad intentions, will lose their positions and suffer health problems, said Minca. She said they plan to harness the global power of the Internet once more ahead of Mays European parliament elections. We will continue this ritual on the 25th of May. We will do a powerful ritual against the Romanian government, so on the 26th when the European elections are taking place we will cast our spell for the good of the country. Transparency International ranks Romania as one of the EUs most corrupt states and Brussels has kept its judicial system under special monitoring since it joined the bloc in 2007. Romanias ruling Social Democrats spearheaded an overhaul of the countrys criminal codes last year. The European Commission said the proposed changes were a reversal of a decade of democratic and market reforms in the former Communist country. Reuters Post Views: 115 The houseboy now on the run connived with these two criminals A houseboy is currently wanted by Police officers after he planned with two other boys to steal a vehicle belonging to his employer. Although his accomplices were nabbed by Police officers yesterday at Ladipo market in Mushin area of Lagos as they were about to sell off the Highlander SUV, the houseboy who is simply known as Goodluck is still on the run. Narrating how the incident occurred back in April, Goodlucks employer, Mrs. Abiola Abegunde, stated that she had gone to fix her phone in the morning of April 29. So, she left her daughter and mother in the company of her houseboy. I was within the vicinity when I heard the sound of our gate opened. When I looked closely I saw the house boy Goodluck, opening the gate for my fathers highlander jeep to go out of the compound. Suspecting the boys reversing the jeep, I started shouting thief! But to my greatest surprise, the houseboy was with them. They reversed the vehicle out of the street into the adjoining street which is Busari street, where the house-boy stood. He was also shouting thief, to convince passers-by, Abiola said. She immediately reported the matter to police officers at Igando Police station in Lagos. In his reaction to the arrest of the two boys, Lagos Police Spokesperson, DSP Elkana Bala, explained stated, Luckily on May 1, 2019, at about 5:30 pm, one Arifayan Tosin went to Ladipo market, Mushin, to sell the said Toyota highlander jeep with registration number LSR392DE with pretence that his father instructed him to sell the car. However, when the intending buyer decided to call the number he saw in the particulars of the vehicle, he was told that the SUV had been stolen from a location around the Igando area. Bala continued, Immediately, he contacted the Area Commander D, Mushin, who mobilised policemen and got the first suspect arrested. Further investigation led to the arrest of the second suspect Ramond Ado, a security guard with Fundamental Guard attached to Ajose street Mende, Maryland . Efforts are still on to arrest fleeing Goodluck. U.S. Navy photograph by Brian Suriani(NEW YORK) -- The U.S. Navy hospital ship USNS Comfort will soon be headed to the Caribbean, Central America and South America to assist Venezuelan refugees. Acting Defense Secretary Pat Shanahan told reporters Tuesday that getting the medical personnel aboard the ship will be a "highly choreographed" effort. He also said that there is a lot of planning underway for Venezuela for various scenarios, in what he described as "a fluid situation." The ship is scheduled to deploy in June from Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia. "U.S. military medical personnel will work alongside partners to provide medical assistance to communities based on needs identified by host-nation health ministries, and help relieve pressure on host nation medical systems in countries hosting Venezuelans who have fled the country's crisis," according to a U.S. Southern Command statement. Venezuela is experiencing political unrest and is in the midst of an economic crisis that has resulted in shortages of food and medical supplies. In 2018, an average of 5,000 people left the country each day in search of protection or better circumstances and 2.7 million Venezuelans are being hosted in Latin America and the Caribbean, according to the United Nations. The country's opposition-controlled National Assembly declared Juan Guaido interim president in January, but President Nicolas Maduro has maintained his grip on power, despite months of demonstrations and U.S. sanctions. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday on ABC's This Week that Maduro is "ruling for the moment," but cannot be part of Venezuela's future. He also reiterated the Trump administration's support for Guaido. "Weve supported the National Assemblys choice. Juan Guaido is the interim president of the country, and as you know, these things sometimes have bumpy roads." Pompeo told ABC News Chief White House Correspondent Jonathan Karl. This will be the hospital ship's seventh deployment to the region since 2007. The USNS Comfort has previously assisted patients in Ecuador, Peru and Colombia. The ship's surgical and medical services include X-rays, CAT scans, dental services, an optometry and lens laboratory, a physical therapy center and a pharmacy. In November, ABC News reported that the ship also maintains up to 5,000 units of blood for medical services, and that patients are seen on board the ship as well as at land-based medical sites, depending on patient needs. Copyright 2019, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. The Association of Friends of Morocco in Argentina (ASAMIMARG) has called on the international community to act to put an end to the hardships suffered by the Sahrawis sequestered in the Tindouf camps in Algeria. The Association, which includes academics, researchers, politicians, media professionals, economists and experts, denounced the Polisario brutal repression, abuse and ill-treatment of the besieged inhabitants of the Tindouf camps wherein the Sahrawis suffer daily from all kinds of cruel torture and violation of their basic human rights. The Association members urged the international community to intervene to ensure full respect of human rights in the Polisario-run Tindouf camps, and stressed the need to conduct a census of the Sahrawis held against their will in these camps lacking all conditions for a decent life. They said separatist leaders seek to prolong the Sahara regional conflict to justify its existence as an armed group embezzling the international humanitarian assistance to line up their pockets and serve their own interests at the expense of the suffering of the camps populations. These Moroccan citizens should return to their country of origin, Morocco, to live in dignity in the southern provinces, under the autonomy initiative proposed by the Kingdom to end this long-running regional conflict, said the Association in a press release. It called on the United Nations and human rights organizations to take urgent actions to end the Polisario oppression in the Tindouf camps and to enable the sequestered Sahrawis to enjoy the freedom of speech, movement and assembly. One of the convicts Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, convicted and sentenced two Internet fraudsters, Akinleye Sheriff, a.k.a. Tracy Gifford, and Ganiyu Sheriff Abiodun, a.k.a Sandra Avri, to one year and four months imprisonment respectively for possession of fraudulent documents, an offence contrary to Section 320 (1) (c) of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State No. 11 of 2015. The convicts, who were arrested by officials of the EFCC during a raid at the Ologolo-Igbo Efon area of Lagos State on March 13, 2019, were arraigned today on a one-count charge bordering on possession of fraudulent documents. Count one of the charge reads: That you, Akinleye Sheriff (a.k.a Tracy Gifford) and Ganiyu Sherif Abiodun (a.k.a Sandra Avril), on or about the 13th day of March 2019, at Lagos within the Ikeja Judicial Division, have in your possession a document wherein you falsely represented yourselves as Tracy Gifford and Sandra Avril respectively when you knew or ought to know, having regard to the circumstances of the case that the documents contain false pretence. The defendants pleaded guilty to the one count charge preferred against them. The prosecution counsel, Bilikisu Buhari Bala, informed the court of a plea bargain entered into by the defendants with the Commission and also prayed that they be convicted accordingly. Delivering her judgment, Justice Dada convicted and sentenced the defendants to one year and four months imprisonment with an option of N250, 000 fine. The Judge further ordered the forfeiture of a Lexus SUV 15250, HP Beat Studio laptop, two I-phone Xs Gold, one black Nokia Torch, one Acer laptop and one Apple Mac Book Air recovered from the defendants to the Federal Government. The planned protest on Wednesday by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) against the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, has taken a new twist as workers were attacked by suspected thugs at the ministers house in the Asokoro area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. The NLCs protest was because of the ministers failure to swear in Frank Kokori as the board chairman of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). The workers who came out to protest at the ministers house were confronted by thugs carrying weapons and arms. President of the NLC, Ayuba Wabba, described the scene as barbaric and accused the minister of hiring thugs to attack them. He also revealed that those who were injured were taken to the National Hospital in Abuja for treatment. He said: As Tribunal begins hearing on Atikus petition against Buhari There were indications of palpable fear in the presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, sitting in Abuja, officially commenced hearing in the petitions filed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 presidential election. Atiku Abubakar, the PDP and three other political parties and their presidential candidates, filed different petitions challenging the victory of President Muhammadu Buhari and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), at the tribunal. National Daily learned that Atiku, PDP and others, in their respective petitions are seeking the cancellation of the presidential election result announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the nullification of President Buharis victory in the February 23 presidential election, raising allegations of rigging and violation of the Electoral Act amongst other electoral malpractices. The other political parties include the Hope Democratic Party (HDP), its presidential candidate, Ambrose Owuru; Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) and its presidential candidate, Aminchi Habu, and the Coalition for Change, (C4C) and its presidential candidate, Jeff Ojinka. Atiku in his petition is asking the tribunal to disqualify Buhari on the grounds that he did not possess the requisite academic qualification to contest for the office of the President. ALSO READ: So, Tinubu doesnt own Oriental? The petition which listed five grounds of pretest alleged that Buhari lied about his academic qualification as well as schools attended in his form 001 submitted to INEC for purpose of contesting the 2019 presidential election. National Daily recalls that Atiku and PDP filed their petition against the result of the election at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT) in Abuja, on March 18, 2019. The petition of Atiku and the PDP faulted the conduct of the February 23 presidential election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). They request the tribunal to disqualify Buhari on the grounds that he was not qualified to have contested the election in the first place and as such, all votes accredited to him by INEC should be declared as rejected votes. Other petitioners in their separate petitions demand the tribunal to nullify the election of Buhari on grounds of alleged massive rigging of the February 23 presidential election as well as substantial non-compliance with the provisions of the law by the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC). Respondents in the petitions are President Buhari, APC, INEC and the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo. However, Buhari, the APC and INEC in their separate replies have urged the tribunal to uphold their victory at the February 23 election, dismissing the various petitions on grounds that the allegations against the conduct of the election were baseless, unsubstantiated and lacking in merit. Post Views: 177 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have announced the name of their newborn son. The announcement is coming hours after the arrival of the newborn. Read Also: Royal Tour: Prince Harry, Meghan arrive in Fiji The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have named their child Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, the couple revealed via Instagram. The seventh-in-line to the throne was born at 05:26am on 6 May 2019. But his title hasnt yet been revealed. Details shortly The Controller of Prisons, Bauchi State Command, Suleiman T. Suleiman has said that five persons who were sentenced to death-by-stoning; and 10 others whose legs and hands are to be amputated are awaiting the day of judgment. Suleiman, who spoke in an interview with newsmen in his office on Tuesday on the state of prison in Bauchi, also lamented that some convicts have been in jail for over 10 years with action not taken on them. He said six other inmates have also been condemned to death, five are currently on life sentence, while 188 are on various jail terms of two years and above. He lamented that the prison currently has 947 inmates at the 500-capacity Bauchi Prison. He said: The condemned convicts we have are mostly coming from Sharia Courts. These and other related cases like amputation of hand or leg have been in jail for over 10 years without knowing their fate. Their hands are not cut off, their legs are not cut off, they dont know their fate. There are also those who are supposed to be stoned to death. I am worried. I feel touched that each time I go to any of the prisons to visit, theyll be the first to confront me with questions about their case. I have written to the state governor, I have also written to the state Chief Judge to see that something is done about these people. Theyre the only category of people that cannot be taken to court because they have already been convicted, but theres no execution. The Prison Comptroller said that if the sentences could not be executed, they could be commuted to prison terms. The forum of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Osun State House of Assembly Candidates has condemned in strong terms what it described as the unlawful and barbaric acts of the police over the arrest of Osun State PDP Governorship Candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke. In a statement issued and signed by its spokesman, Mr Faruq Olanrewaju Abbas, Candidate for Ejigbo State Constituency on Tuesday, the lawmakers said it was wrong for the police to allow itself to be used by some unscrupulous elements in the political arena to hound and harass Senator Adeleke over a matter, which two superior courts of record and the election petition tribunal had already made a pronouncement on. The forum,however, hailed the Nigerian Judiciary for granting Senator Adeleke bail at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Magistrate court in a case of testimonial and certificate forgery slammed against the Senator. Senator Adeleke is being harassed because of his victory against the APC, as the election tribunal declared him the winner of Osun State Governorship election, the forum argued. Faruq advised the APC and those behind the Senators ordeal to await the decision of the Federal High Court on the pending criminal trial, as against seeking to use the machinery of the State and the Nigeria Police Force to intimidate and harass Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke. He added that the APC had the opportunity of establishing that the Senator was not qualified to contest for the position of Governor at the election petition tribunal, but it was unable to establish this laughable claim at the tribunal. The forum also called on the Inspector General of Police and President Muhammadu Buhari to call members of the police force to order so as to avoid a situation where the polity would be unduly overheated, as the continued harassment of Adeleke is capable of leading to a breakdown of law and order in Osun State. We call on Osun citizens and PDP members to remain calm in the face of this unwarranted provocation and to continue to pray for the safety of Senator Adeleke, the statement reads. Share this: A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja yesterday ordered that a cleric, Pastor Dennis Ogbede, be remanded in prison custody. Justice Modupe Osho-Adebiyi gave the order shortly after Ogbede was arraigned on a three-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Justice Osho-Adebiyi ordered that Ogbede be kept in prison until he meets the conditions attached to the bail granted him. Ogbede, the director of Alidenco Systems Nigeria Ltd, was arraigned for allegedly defrauding Maje Umar Nafiu of Maje Investment and Construction Company Ltd to the tune of N35million in land acquisition in 2009. The EFCC also accused the defendant of presenting to Nafiu, fake land titles for Wumba area of the FCT. The commission alleged that Ogbede agreed to refund N25million through three post-dated Zenith Bank Plc cheques, which all failed to clear upon presentation at the bank in December, 2015. The offences violate Section 1(1) of Dud Cheque Offences Act and punishable under section (i) (i) of the same Act. Ogbede pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to him. After Ogbedes arraignment, prosecution lawyer, Samuel Ugwuegbulem, sought a date for the commencement of trial. Defence lawyer Isaac Imo applied for bail for the defendant. Imo said the defendant is a religious leader and also has a pending civil suit in court, challenging the refund of the N35million. Ugwuegbulem said he would not oppose the bail application, because it was the discretion of the court to grant bail. Ruling, Justice Osho-Adebiyi granted bail to the defendant at N2million and two sureties in the like sum. The judge said the sureties must be civil servants, one which must be of the rank not less than Grade Level 14, with landed properties in the FCT. She adjourned till May 30 for trial. A house-boy, identified simply as Goodluck, is currently on the run after his accomplices were arrested while trying to sell his boss jeep, on Tuesday, at Ladipo market, Mushin, Lagos, Vanguardngr reports. According to his boss, Mrs Abiola Abegunde, the suspects struck on April 29, 2019, after she left her Igando residence, to fix her faulty phone, leaving her mother and her 3-year-old daughter with the house-boy. . . According to her, I was within the vicinity, when I heard the sound of our gate opened. When I looked closely I saw the house boy Goodluck, opening the gate for my fathers highlander jeep to go out of the compound. . . Suspecting the boys reversing the jeep, I started shouting thief! But to my greatest surprise, the houseboy was with them. . . Luckily on May 1, 2019, at about 5:30pm, one of the suspects, Arifayan Tosin, went to Ladipo market to sell the car, under the pretence that his father instructed him to sell it. . . Unfortunately for him, the buyer dialled the phone number in the particulars, only to be informed that the vehicle was stole from where it was parked. Immediately, he contacted the Area Commander D, Mushin, who mobilised policemen and got the first suspect arrested. . . Further investigation led to the arrest of the 2nd suspect Ramond A do, a security guard with Fundamental Guard attached to Ajose street Mende, Maryland. Efforts are still on to arrest fleeing Goodluck. Kindly Share this: Like this: Like Loading Share this: Related Share this: A Nigerian mother, Mrs. Oluremi Adeleye, whose actions led to the death of an 8-month-old baby in Maryland, United States, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison. Adeleye, 73, broke down crying in court as she spoke through an interpreter, saying, It was a mistake. I did not want to kill that child. Adeleye was found guilty in a bench trial in February of child abuse and second-degree murder. The US Prosecutors said Adeleye forced milk down the throat of 8-month-old Enita Salubi in Glenarden in October 2016, suffocating the child. The incident was captured on a nanny camera. The defense had argued that force-feeding was a common practice in Nigeria from where Adeleke came from. Prosecutors said Adeleye was a live-in nanny at a couples home in Prince Georges County when one 8-month-old Enita Salubi died on Oct. 26, 2016. Adeleye was asleep on a couch inside the house when the baby, who was in a walker, began crying and woke the nanny, police said. Police said a video surveillance camera shows the nanny tried to feed the baby, but without success. Adeleye then pulled the baby from her walker, removed the nipple from her bottle and forcefully fed her, police said. Adeleye poured eight ounces of milk down the childs throat in less than 30 seconds, essentially drowning her, the Prince Georges County States Attorneys Office said in a statement. The baby appeared to squirm and resist while being fed the first bottle, and then Adeleye forced the contents of a second bottle into her mouth, documents said. After the baby became unresponsive, Adeleye called the babys father, who dialed 911 as he raced home. Enita Salubi was rushed to a hospital, where she died. The presiding judge Karen Mason said while she did not believe Adeleye was an evil-intentioned baby slayer, Adeleye knew or should have known her actions could result in the death of the child. Kindly Share this: Like this: Like Loading Share this: Related Share this: Cape Town hosts this May 14-16 the African Utility Week dedicated to African professionals working in the electricity, energy and water sectors. Gathering professionals from the water and energy sectors in Africa, the meeting will focus on the production, distribution and storage of energy in the continent. The event, taking place in conjunction with PowerGen Africa, will help identify, through the sharing of experience, new practices for a better management of the continents energy heritage. More than 10,000 decision makers and 350 exhibitors are expected from 81 countries. The conference will provide an opportunity to reflect on how to make the water and energy sectors more competitive in Africa. It will also serve as a forum to discuss, real business proposals to streamline their procurement process by linking African decision makers in public services, municipalities and commercial enterprises with technology and service providers, the organizers say. Climate change and extreme weather conditions; growing threat of drought; partnership agreements to improve access to energy; Critical factors that can influence the success of energy projects; Coca-Cola Initiative on Sustainable Water Management will top the agenda of the meeting. Note that mini grids have become increasingly important on the continent and are being built at a rapid rate with more than 2,000 mini grids currently across Africa. " " Former CNN pundit Kayleigh McEnany appears in a video on President Trump's Facebook page Aug. 6, hosting a segment called the "Real News." Screenshot HSW We live in a confusing media world. The news used to be something you read in a printed newspaper, or what the guy on TV with good hair talked about at 5 o'clock every weeknight. Whether you thought the news of the day was "good" or "bad" didn't change the fact that it was still the news something we all agreed was important, impartial and in most cases, true. Not anymore. Thanks to deep political polarization and an explosion of news(ish) content shared on social media, whether a news item is "real" or "fake" is now mostly a matter of personal opinion. If the news fits our preconceived political notions, then it's real. Otherwise, it's biased, crooked, conspiratorial or even "Soviet-style propaganda." Advertisement That last label is how some critics on Twitter described a video posted on Aug. 6 on the Facebook page for Donald J. Trump, and his organization that's campaigning (yes, already) for President Trump's re-election in 2020. In the one-and-a-half-minute video, a former CNN commentator named Kayleigh McEnany shares the "News of the Week" from Trump Tower in New York City. The news is unabashedly good McEnany cites a positive job report, an immigration bill and the president honoring veterans and delivered with all the trappings of a cable TV news broadcast, including over-the-shoulder graphics and b-roll footage. Upon closer inspection, there are some clear signs that the video is part of a political campaign and not an unbiased report. For starters, McEnany is sitting in front of a blue backdrop plastered with ads for DonaldJTrump.com, the president's campaign website, and there's the familiar logo for "Trump - Pence: Make America Great Again." Still, by using a recognizable TV personality and surrounding her with cable TV-style graphics, the Trump campaign was clearly trying to position the video as a news broadcast. Not just any news broadcast, of course, but the "real news," as opposed to the "fake news" printed in The New York Times and other "main stream media." McEnany even signs off by saying, "And that's the real news," with a "Real News" caption over her shoulder. While comparisons between the McEnany video and state-run media broadcasts are probably overblown under the video is a caption that says "Paid for by Donald J. Trump for President, Inc." it's fair to ask whether a campaign video on Facebook dressed up as a cable news broadcast represents a new type of threat to conventional news outlets. Chris Wells, associate professor in the School of Journalism & Mass Communication at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, sees the video as a continuation of Trump's communication style, which uses social media Twitter in particular to bypass traditional media gatekeepers. "[The McEnany video] seems like another small, yet still concerning step," Wells says. "It feeds the narrative that the 'fake news' or 'liberal news media' aren't giving you the real story. In the past, it was Fox News or conservative radio that was going to set the record straight for you. This seems like a more direct channel for the Trump campaign to do that." Wells compares the McEnany video to Trump's unorthodox and ongoing "Make America Great Again" rallies "campaign rallies without a campaign," Wells calls them in which a sitting president takes his message of success directly to his supporters. The video is employing the same tactic on social media. One might argue that there's nothing confusing or dangerous about the McEnany video because it's posted on the Facebook page of Donald J. Trump, so anyone viewing it there would understand its political motives, whether they're on the right or left. In fact, just a week earlier, Trump's daughter-in-law Lara Trump hosted a similar "news of the week"-style video in front of the very same blue backdrop, minus the cool graphics. But Stephanie Edgerly at Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism says the trouble starts when a video is shared on Facebook or Twitter, and loses its original context. "You see [the video] shared on your news feed in the same way that you'd see a story from The New York Times, or your aunt's photos from her latest trip," Edgerly says. "It almost equalizes all these very different types of information, which makes these judgment calls harder to make." Even though Facebook was fiercely criticized for helping to spread fake news stories during the 2016 election season, neither Edgerly nor Wells thinks that the social media website has a responsibility to "police" content. The job of parsing fact from fiction, or news from campaign rhetoric, is very much the responsibility of the information consumers. In other words, you and me. "The unfortunate reality of the media world we're living in right now is that you have to be more critical consumers," Edgerly says. "You have to wear your skeptical glasses. 'Is this a news organization? Is it a campaign page? If I Google this headline, what else comes up?' If the expectation is, 'Facebook checks everything and deletes things that are false,' then I worry that people will stop doing that." Now That's Not Cool As an example of how online videos lose context when shared on social media, Edgerly says that many people who "like" and share videos from RT think the abbreviation stands for "retweet," not Russia Today. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have revealed the name of their son: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The couple shared the news via the @SussexRoyal Instagram account this afternoon. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, reads the Instagram post. This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess mother were also present for this special occasion. The news comes following the family-of-threes first official photocall at Windsor Castle today. Harry, 34, was seen holding his newborn son, while wife Meghan, 37, stood by his side in Windsor Castle. In a brief interview, Meghan said motherhood is magic and pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world, so Im really happy, she added. When asked what hes like, she responded: He has the sweetest temperament, hes really calm. Wonder where he gets that from, Harry joked. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry pose with their newborn son in Windsor Castle [Photo: PA] No name has been announced for Harry and Meghan's child, seen here in the Duke's arms [Photo: PA] Harry spoke of the first few days with their son, revealing its been the dream and a special couple of days. When asked who the baby takes after, Harry said theyre still trying to figure that out. He added: Everyone says babies change so much over the next two weeks, so were monitoring how the changing process happens. Parenting is amazing, its only been two and a half, three days, but were just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy to spend some precious times with him as he slowly starts to grow up. The couple added that the Queen will meet the baby this afternoon and they bumped into Prince Philip as they walked to the interview location. Story continues Harry joked the babys already got a little bit of facial hair as well. Meghan finished the interview by thanking the public for the well wishes and kindness. The photos were taken at St. Georges Hall in Windsor Castle, where the couple held their wedding reception last May. [Photo: PA] [Photo: PA] [Photo: PA] Read more: Title of Meghan and Harrys firstborn child Harry and Meghan welcomed their son on May 6 at 05:26, weighing 7lb 3oz. Its believed he was almost a week overdue. The announcement of his arrival came around 10 hours after he was born. Proud father Harry appeared on TV for a short interview, saying he was over the moon about his sons safe arrival. While it was previously thought Meghan had a home birth at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, there have been reports that she was taken to a London hospital (most likely The Portland) on Sunday night by Harry and his security team. The couple opted out of a post-birth photo call, having announced in advance of the birth that they wanted to keep details around the babys arrival private. Read more: Who Meghan and Harrys child shares a birthday with Todays interview has been a much more intimate affair than the mass media photo call weve seen with previous royal births. The couple spoke with a very small pool of journalists, comprising one reporter, one photographer and two TV cameras. One of these TV cameras belonged to a US network, which some royal experts were quick to criticise Meghan and Harry for. The Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William with their three children, outside the Lindo Wing [Photo: PA] The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge posed on the steps of the Lindo Wing at St Marys hospital in Paddington, after the births of their three children, George, Charlotte and Louis. Watch the latest videos from Yahoo News UK THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has seized 331 illegal firearms from various security agencies in Metro Manila since the start of the election period on January 13. PNP Civil Security Group Director Reynaldo Biay said 250 firearms were confiscated from security agencies with cease to operate order while 81 were confiscated through the conduct of post-to-post inspection during the start of the election. Of the total, 55 were 12 GA Shotgun, 39 were 9 mm pistol, 222 units of. 38 caliber, 10 Super 38, one caliber 380, two caliber 32 and two Mac Intratec. Aside from the confiscation of their FAs (firearms), the security guards were also issued Violation Ticket Report (VTR) which they need to settle to the Landbank of the Philippines upon issuance of an Order of Payment by the Enforcement Management Division (EMD) SOSIA, Biay said. The confiscation of FAs and subsequent issuance of VTR usually stems from the lack of License to Exercise Security Profession (LESP) of the security guard. The Security Agency of said guard is also penalized for the guard's violation, he added. PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde said it was also part of security measures for the upcoming elections citing that some candidates own security agencies which they may use against their rivals. He, however, clarified that there is nothing wrong with candidates owning a security agency but what is not allowed is for them to hire security guards as their personal security aides particularly while campaigning. Well yung owning a security agency walang masama doon because that is a legitimate business. What is unauthorized is for them to hire their own agency or own security guard na sila magdedetail sa kanila as personal security especially during this campaign period or bearing firearms without Comelec authority, he said. (SunStar Philippines) MANILA, Philippines The Philippine National Police (PNP) remains skeptical of Peter Joemel Advincula claiming to be alias Bikoy, the hooded man in the viral narco video linking prominent personalities including President Rodrigo Duterte to illegal drugs. According to PNP Chief Police General Oscar Albayalde, the responsibility is on Advincula to prove his claim, though authorities are working out to uncover his real identity. We have not really confirmed na itong si Bikoy na naka-hood ay siya rin itong si Advincula na self-confessed Bikoy. Ang burden of proof lies on Advincula kung paano niya i-prove na siya si Bikoy talaga, (We have not really confirmed if this hooded man or self-confessed Bikoy is indeed Advincula. The burden of proof now lies on Advincula to prove himself as Bikoy), Police General Albayalde said. According to Albayalde, Advincula used to tip authorities with information when he was serving jail term inside the New Bilibid Prison in 2016. He made it believe through one inmate also na siya ay involved. The same kuwento niya na siya ang involved sa isang sindikato at meron siyang alam na laboratory sa Bicol. It so happened na noong i-verify namin ang sinasabi niyang laboratory ay isang resort pala. (He made one inmate believe that he was involved (in a syndicate). The same old story. And that he knew of a (drug) laboratory in Bicol. It so happened that when we verified the supposed laboratory, it turned out to be a resort). So, this is how he lies, Albayalde explained. Whats cunning, Albayalde said, was that Advincula used to sell information for P50,000 to P70,000. We have an intensified campaign against illegal drugs, alam niya (he knows it). So, we develop kahit anong information ang nakukuha namin sa isang tao (So, we develop whatever information we could get from an informant). But before he gives information, ilang beses na siyang nakahingi ng medyo large amount of money (he would always ask for a large amount of money). And it turned out na lahat ng sinabi niya are all false, (later, it would turn out that everything he said was false), the PNP Chief narrated. Story continues He said it was not only one agency that Advincula conned with false information. Ibig sabihin nagpabayad siya dito (He accepted payment for), the same information . Umatras iyon pero nabayaran na siya (The other party backed out their deal but he was paid already), Albayalde said. Then there was another agency na binayaran siya ulit and then false pa rin ang sinasabi niya (Then there was another agency that also paid him, but fed it false information again), Albyalde added. If Advincula is indeed Bikoy, Albayalde said it is possible that he is a paid whistleblower. Until now, the PNP has not received any information on whether or not the personalities mentioned by Bikoy in the viral video have links to illegal drugs, but assures that investigations are still ongoing. Kahit na ang quadrangle group na sinasabi niya its not even existent, (Even that quadrangle group that he mentioned is non-existent), the PNP Chief said. Meanwhile, authorities are still verifying information if Advincula has an existing warrant of arrest for cases of illegal recruitment in Baguio City. Marje Pelayo (with details from Rey Pelayo) The post Self-confessed Bikoy used to sell fake information to authorities PNP appeared first on UNTV News. Senator Aquilino Koko Pimentel III wants to impose stiffer penalties on those found guilty of reckless imprudence and negligence. Pimentel has filed Senate Bill No. 118, which amends Article 365 of Act No. 3815otherwise known as the Revised Penal Codeand includes longer prison terms on cases involving damage to properties and loss of lives. One of the purposes of criminal laws is the protection of members of society from potential wrongdoers, Pimentel said. These laws are directed against acts or omissions which society does not approve of and therefore serve as deterrents against incidents that may claim lives or cause damage to property. It is proposed that Article 365 of the Revised Penal Code be amended to provide our law on reckless imprudence and negligence more teeth by increasing the penalties of imprisonment and fine therein, Pimentel added. The senator also proposed the imposition of prision correccional in its medium (two years, four months and one day to four years and two months) and maximum (10 years and one day to 12 years) periods. In cases where negligence and imprudence leads to death, the senator seeks to increase the penalty from the existing two to six-year imprisonment term to a minimum of 10 to 12-year jail sentence to 14 years and eight months. Pimentel also wants to increase the existing fine for such cases, which currently has a range of PHP200 to PHP40,000 for anyone who commits a light felony. Pimentel also seeks to disqualify from probation those who found to have intentionally committed reckless imprudence or grave felony that results in fatality. facebook.com/AttyKoko/ The post Senator Pimentel Calls for Longer Prison Term for Reckless Drivers appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. THE National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has removed over 650,000 campaign materials all over Metro Manila.NCRPO Director Major General Guillermo Eleazar urged the candidates to also do their THE National Union of Journalists of the Philippines refuses to dignify such a piece of unadulterated crap as the new matrix presented by Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo apparently expands on the earlier oust-Duterte canard and now purports to link more people and groups like us to Rodel Jayme. At best, this is yet another badly concocted fiction meant to scare their perceived enemies but which only ends up making them look ridiculous. At worst, and this is a real concern, we cannot imagine what pressures Jayme might have undergone or be made to undergo to underpin this fallacy. And we stress again this governments criminal endangerment of people it accuses of serious offenses without an iota of evidence. But we say let them try their worst. They cannot scare the community of independent Filipino journalists into silence. (National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, National Directorate) This study analyzes the perception of university researchers who have participated in institutional communication campaigns. Credit: UC3M Communicating research results to the public generates a range of positive effects on the careers of university professors, according to a study carried out by researchers at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) and the Universidad de Valencia (UV), which analyzed the perception of university researchers who have participated in institutional communication campaigns. This study, published in the latest issue of the journal InMediaciones de la comunicacion, analyzes the perception that university faculty have regarding the role played by communication of the science, technology and innovation taking place at Spanish public universities, through their offices of institutional communication and their scientific culture and innovation units (UCC+i), and the media impact of such communications. "Beyond the communication and dissemination that researchers themselves can undertake, the role that these institutions play in information and public communication, far from causing any type of negative effect, results in a range of positive effects on researchers' careers by augmenting their visibility as well as their impact in the scientific community. As such, it improves their professional prestige and increases the likelihood of obtaining more funding for future lines of work," the study pointed out. In general, the majority of researchers (65.4 percent) perceive some type of benefit after having their research results published. "The most common benefit that they point to is that, thanks to these communication campaigns, their research becomes more known to other fellow researchers in Spain (46.5 percent of the cases), which can then lead to an increase in citations of their academic work by these colleagues. This is precisely one of the factors that determines the quality of a scientific article," explained one of the study's authors, Francisco Javier Alonso Flores. In addition, one out of four researchers (27.2 percent) received requests to give talks on their related subjects after their work appeared in communication media. Furthermore, one out of five (20.9 percent) were contacted by companies interested in their line of research, "which can improve synergy with industrial and business sector." As for any possible negative effects, a large majority of the researchers (84.7 percent) did not perceive that there were any. Specifically, fewer than one in 10 of those surveyed (8.1 percent) felt that the communication media had distorted or incorrectly interpreted the research news. In general, the majority of the researchers (68.6 percent) stated that the communication media informs and represents the subjects they deal with well (42 percent) or very well, (26.6 percent), giving the journalists' work a high score (7.7 out of 10). "Two out of three researchers (66.9 percent) think that information provided in the communication media on subjects related to specialized R+D+i in the past decade has improved. The vast majority (96.1 percent) believe that this type of specialized journalism is essential to properly deal with this kind of content," observed Carolina Moreno Castro, one of the study's authors. "After carrying out statistical processing on all the responses and variables, we have found a significant difference in the opinion of those researchers who have participated in communications actions as opposed to those who have not done so. Those who have participated tend to rate the work of the university communicators and the communication media journalists more highly," said Antonio Eleazar Serrano Lopez, another of the study's authors. Serrano Lopez is a professor in the UC3M Department of Library Science and Documentation, and a member of the Research Institute for Higher Education and Science (INAECU). Explore further Journalists prefer Twitter: Spanish study More information: Alonso-Flores, Javier et al. La publicacion de noticias sobre los resultados de I+D+i. Como es percibida por los investigadores espanoles? InMediaciones de la comunicacion, Vol. 13, No. 2, 2018, pages 115-140. revistas.ort.edu.uy/inmediacio sue/view/267/showToc Alonso-Flores, Javier et al. La publicacion de noticias sobre los resultados de I+D+i. Como es percibida por los investigadores espanoles?, Vol. 13, No. 2, 2018, pages 115-140. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Advanced Micro Devices announced Tuesday that its technology will help power a new supercomputer at Tennessee-based Oak Ridge National Laboratory in 2021. The Frontier supercomputer is part of a contract the U.S. Department of Energy awarded to Cray Inc, a supercomputer manufacturer headquartered in Seattle. The total contract award is valued at more than $600 million for the system and technology development, according to a news release. The supercomputerdubbed Frontierwill be used to simulate, model and advance scientists' understanding of weather, sub-atomic structures, genomics, physics and more, according to the news release. Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the U.S. Department of Energy's largest science and energy laboratory. AMD, which is headquartered in California but has a large presence in Austin, is known for gaming-focused processors. A spokesman for the company said significant design work for the supercomputer will be done in Austin. "We are all about high performance computing at AMD," Lisa Su, CEO and president of AMD, said in a panel at Oak Ridge National Laboratory ahead of the announcement. "It really required new thinking. It's not just about putting components together. It's about thinking from the ground up when you're trying to design the world's most powerful computer." The Frontier supercomputer will feature exclusive technology from AMD, including a customized Epyc central processor and Radeon Instinct graphics processor. It will also be based on Cray's new Shasta architecture and Slingshot interconnect. The contract award includes technology development funding, a center for excellence, several early-delivery systems, the main Frontier system and multi-year systems support, according to a news release. "Frontier represents the state-of-the-art in high-performance computing," Jeff Nichols, associate laboratory director for computing and computational sciences at Oak Ridge, said in a written statement. "We are delighted to work with AMD to integrate the CPU and GPU technologies that enable this extremely capable accelerated node architecture." The supercomputer is expected to be the world's most powerful computer with a performance of greater than 1.5 exaflops, according to the companies. The network bandwidth of the computer is 24 million times greater than the top home internet connection, the equivalent of being able to download 100,000 high-definition movies in one second. U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry said that Frontier's performance will help the country lead the world in science. "Frontier will accelerate innovation in (artificial intelligence) by giving American researchers world-class data and computing resources to ensure the next great inventions are made in the United States," Perry said in a written statement. Although it's not the first time AMD technology has been used to build a supercomputer, Frontier will be the most powerful supercomputer to feature AMD's technology, an AMD spokesman said. Most of AMD's senior management team is based in Austin and the company employs about 1,500 people in Central Texas. Explore further 'Jaguar' supercomputer gaining speed 2019 Austin American-Statesman, Texas Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Credit: CC0 Public Domain Earlier this week, the Global Assessment on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services was been published by IPBES, the science-policy platform that serves under the flag of the United Nations. In the assessment major concerns are raised on the state and trends of biodiversity. The way currently deal with the loss of nature will not suffice in turning the tide, the researchers state. But what should be done? Wieteke Willemen, who is an associate professor at the ITC Faculty of Geo-information Science and Earth Observation of the University of Twente, reflects on the global decline in biodiversity. "Since 1992, the year of the United Nation's Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the message has actually been the same: biodiversity needs to be protected. Not only for the sake of conserving plants and animal species, but also because healthy ecosystem are a foundation for human wellbeing. While this message remained unchanged ever since, the urgency of the problem has grown even further: decline of biodiversity has reached its all-time high. Many faces Protecting nature is a challenge with many faces. Sir Bob Watson, the chair of IPBES, frames this sharply. The protection of our nature is not just an environmental issue, but it is as much as an economic and social issue too, just as it is about safety, moral choices and ethics. It is about the choices that we make on how to earn money and how a society develops itself, it is about avoiding conflicts over natural sources. It is a moral dilemma, can we destroy irreplaceable nature? And an ethical issue: the most vulnerable groups in our society, with the little freedom of choice, are being hit hardest by degradation of nature, often due to decisions made by others. biodiversity thinking Protected natural areas are important. Assigning a protected status, together with measurements to ensure the conservation of these areas, is a classical way to protect biodiversity. The natural values of these areas and their contributions to our wellbeing are often high. But the percentage of protected areas is simply insufficient. To address the different faces of the current ecological crisis a transitional change is required: biodiversity thinking should be fully integrated in all decision-making. The IPBES assessment is clear on the matter: it is not only the national governments that need to take action, there is also a clear role for producers and consumers. A major challenge here is to develop a radically different view on our relationship with all other life on this planet. This requires a fundamental change in our social and economic systems driving the way we act and perceive good quality of life. Practical steps to take include, nature-inclusive agriculture, nature-based solutions in our urban areas, reducing carbon emissions and polluters like plastics as well as limiting our consumption. It is not a matter of choosing one or two, but acting on all fronts. Bring about change As said, the message that we are rapidly losing nature is known for over three decades. So why will the latest IPBES assessment bring about the change that has not been achieved over the years? The work of IPBES is fundamentally different for earlier biodiversity reports. First of all, IPBES is an intergovernmental science-policy platform. In practice, this means 132 countries are involved in the assessment process, together with an international team of experts who synthesize on the evidence on the state, drivers, and trends of biodiversity and its effect on human wellbeing. In the process, countries to read drafts, provide input on the scope, and jointly come to summary of the report in which all policy-relevant findings of the assessment are presented. This summary is word-by-word approved by them. In this way, countries become co-owner of the findings. Secondly, the IPBES assessments are characterized by their strong interdisciplinary approach. The reports are not only written by ecologists, but also by experts in the field of law, policy, social relations, culture and tradition. As such, the multiple faces of human-nature relationships are carefully captured." Explore further UN biodiversity meet wraps up, report due Monday A new study from The University of Texas at Austin looks at the complex geology that contributed to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster. Credit: US Coast Guard A study from The University of Texas at Austin is the first published in a scientific journal to take an in-depth look at the challenging geologic conditions faced by the crew of the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig and the role those conditions played in the 2010 disaster. The well blowout killed 11 people and spewed oil for three months, spilling about 4 million barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico before crews successfully capped the well. Researchers and investigators since then have focused mostly on the engineering decisions and mistakes that led to the blowout and the ecological impacts of the oil spill that became one of the country's worst environmental catastrophes. But researchers from the UT Jackson School of Geosciences, aided by thousands of pages of documents made public during lawsuits and legal proceedings, have pieced together how the geologic conditions more than 2 miles under the Gulf floor made drilling difficult and drove engineering decisions that contributed to the well's failure and the ensuing blowout. The study, published May 7 in Scientific Reports, documents, among other things, a significant and steep drop in pore pressure inside the rock near the bottom of the well that influenced the decisions that contributed to the blowout. "The paper tells the geological story behind the catastrophe," said Will Pinkston, who authored the paper while earning a master's degree at the Jackson School. "It is high impact science, and I'm excited to reach a wider audience of people who don't think about these issues every day." The engineering and geosciences challenges posed by drilling wells miles under the surface of the earth are enormously complex. One of the most critical is to maintain the pressure within the well so that it is higher than the pressure within the fluid inside the rock but lower than the stress at which the rock fails. If pressure inside the well is too high, it will fracture the well wall and drive drilling fluids into the rock. If the well pressure is lower than the rock's fluid pressure, fluids from inside the surrounding rock will flow into the well and potentially cause a blowout. To successfully drill, crews use drilling "mud," a slurry that can be mixed to varying weights and consistency, which is circulated throughout the well to help stabilize the hole and control pressure. Crews then line the exposed well with cement and steel casing to seal off exposed rock. In the case of the Transocean Deepwater Horizon drilling rig, which was operated by the BP energy company at the time of the accident, the pore pressure was very high throughout the well, but then dropped abruptly by about 1,200 pounds per square inch near the bottom. Most of the pore pressure drop occurred in the 100 feet above the reservoir target of 18,000 feet below sea level. BP planned to temporarily abandon the oil well, the initial well in the Macondo prospect, until it could be produced at a later date, by plugging the base with steel and cement. However, the sharp drop in pore pressure, and an associated decline in stress, drastically narrowed the range of options to seal off the well. This led to the decision to use a controversial low-density foam cement that failed to set properly. This was a key cause of the Macondo well blowout. "The bottom line is that the geological conditions led to a decision to use a specialized cement that failed," said Peter Flemings, a Jackson School professor and study author. "This decision was a root cause of the ultimate blowout." Flemings was a member of the Deepwater Horizon well integrity team assembled by then-U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu to help respond to the disaster. Beyond describing the pressure and stress conditions in the well, the paper maps geologic conditions across the entire subterranean basin to show that the pressure drop is not a unique event in that area. "Macondo isn't a one-dimensional problem," Pinkston said. "We found evidence of large-scale fluid connectivity across the basin, and this would have been hard to predict." Although the paper does not pinpoint any single reason for the catastrophe, Flemings said it offers important information for the larger drilling community. "One of the significant things about this paper is to get all the data on the table so that the general community can understand the decisions that were made," Flemings said. "I broadly believe that if engineers and geoscientists are more aware of how pressure and stress and engineering decisions couple, better decisions will be made." Explore further BP could have prevented blowout: investigator More information: F. William M. Pinkston et al, Overpressure at the Macondo Well and its impact on the Deepwater Horizon blowout, Scientific Reports (2019). Journal information: Scientific Reports F. William M. Pinkston et al, Overpressure at the Macondo Well and its impact on the Deepwater Horizon blowout,(2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42496-0 Tunisias tourism minister has been named the best tourism minister of the Mediterranean region on the back of the vibrant revival of the North African countrys tourism sector after the industry was nearly knocked down by series of terrorism attacks in 2015. Rene Trabelsi received the honor from Rossanna Roda, the President of Asigitalia, the Italian association for Italy- Euro-Asian economic exchange, online media Tunis Webdo reports. Roda who also leads the Italian professional training center in Tunis, highlighted Trabelsis laudable work at the head of the tourism department as well as his efforts to develop the sector and bilateral relations with various European countries, including Italy. Tunisias tourism sector is bouncing back following few years of slowdown after the country witnessed three major terrorist attacks in 2015. The Ministry of Tourism is aiming to attract 9 million tourists this season, Rene Trabelsi told TAP earlier this week. He said the progress indicators recorded each month range from 25% to 30% for all markets, especially for the Russian market. He said the industry scored a 17.4 percent in the number of arrivals in the first quarter of the year, while yearly revenues of the sector have jumped by 35.1 percent from last years proceedings. The tourism sector accounts for 8 percent of the countrys GDP and provides 400,000 jobs. Credit: CC0 Public Domain More than 610 drinking water sources in 43 states contain potentially unsafe levels of chemical compounds that have been linked to birth defects, cancers, infertility and reduced immune responses in children, according to a new database compiled by the Environmental Working Group and Northeastern University. Using Pentagon data released last year and recently obtained public water utility reports, the researchers now estimate that more than 19 million people are exposed to water contaminated with per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS. The new research shows the broad extent of the problem, that the harmful chemical compounds found concentrated in military water sources across the United States have also been reported hundreds more public drinking water systems than was previously known. "This is a national crisis and it requires a national response," said Bill Walker, vice president of the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit organization focused on health and the environment. While PFAS are found in everyday items such as Teflon and fast-food wrappers, the chemicals are concentrated in the fire-fighting foam that military bases, ships and commercial airports have used for decades. Military bases and the communities surrounding them report some of the highest levels of contaminationmuch higher than the Environmental Protection Agency's 2016 recommendation of a maximum exposure level of 70 parts per trillion. Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in the state of Washington reports some water sources have levels as high as 58,000 parts per trillion and former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base in South Carolina reports some water sources contain as much as 264,000 parts per trillion of the compounds. Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake in California reports one of the highest levels across the military, at 8 million parts per trillion. The contamination was not just discovered on military bases. The Pentagon tested off-base wells and public water sources near each facility. In cases where the water source reported PFAS levels higher than 70 parts per trillion, the Pentagon provided filters or alternate drinking water supplies. The new data shows a broader picture that includes nonmilitary base communities. For example it includes data from Miami Dade Water and Sewer Authority, finding that Miami has previously reported up to 43 parts per trillion of PFAS in its water samples. "We believe that is way too high," Walker said. The EWG has argued that exposure levels as low as 1 part per trillion could lead to adverse health effects, and would like to see a national standard set lower than 70 parts per trillion. For now, without an enforceable standard, there is no requirement for the military to clean up the groundwater or wells to the EPA standard or any other. The Pentagon estimates cleanup at the known contaminated sites could cost more than $2 billion. And Miami's data, although only recently obtained, dates back to 2015 and doesn't give residents the tools they need to know if their water supply now is safe, the researchers said. "Because there is no legal requirement to continue monitoring for these chemicals, the residents of Miami don't know if the PFAS contamination has remained the same, gotten better or gotten worse over the last three years," said Alexis Temkin, an EWG toxicologist. A bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced legislation in late April that would require the EPA to set an enforceable standard, known as a minimum contaminant level, for PFAS within the next two years. Chairman of the House Oversight subcommittee on the environment, Rep. Harley Rouda, D-Calif., held the first congressional hearing on the issue earlier this year and said additional legislation is possible. "All options for future oversight action remain on the table," Rouda said. Explore further EPA draft groundwater rules disappoint clean water advocates 2019 McClatchy Washington Bureau Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The general scheme of the experiment and the scheme of illumination of the plant by pulses of yellow-green light in the study. RL is the reflected light that was used to calculate the photochemical reflection index; RLtotal and RLbackground -- reflected light against the background of a pulse of yellow-green light without it. Credit: Lobachevsky University Precision farming, which relies on spatially heterogeneous application of fertilizers, biologically active compounds, pesticides, etc., is one of the leading trends in modern agricultural science. A necessary condition for such farming is quick remote analysis of the state of plants in the fields and greenhouses. To solve this problem, various spectral indices based on measurements of reflected light in narrow spectral bands are widely used. One of these indices, currently the focus of Lobachevsky University researchers, is the photochemical reflectance indexPRI. The photochemical reflectance index is determined by measuring reflected light at two wavelengths in the yellow-green spectral range, at 531 and 570 nm, which is carried out using special detectors or multispectral cameras. "A unique feature of the photochemical reflectance index is its sensitivity even to weak, stress-related changes in the state of the photosynthetic apparatus. This opens up the potential possibility of using the photochemical reflectance index for early and remote diagnosis of how adverse factors may affect plants. However, the use of PRI has a number of serious limitations, one of them being the high sensitivity of the index to the lighting conditions, which is especially important if the measurements take place under solar lighting conditions," says Vladimir Sukhov, head of the UNN plant electrophysiology laboratory. This problem is addressed in the research project carried out by Ekaterina Sukhova, graduate student at the Department of Biophysics Lobachevsky University. The project was supported by the Russian Science Foundation (project No. 17-76-20032, supervisor Vladimir Sukhov). Research results were published in Remote Sensing. For this purpose, Lobachevsky University scientists proposed an idea that could potentially reduce the sensitivity of the photochemical reflectance index to lighting conditions. It is based on the use of periodic illumination of the plant by pulses of yellow-green measuring light from a source with known spectral characteristics. The dependence of the severity of photosynthetic stress (NPQF), the absolute value of the photochemical reflection index (PRI) and its changes in light (PRI) on the intensity of light acting on the sheet (AL). Results are given for pea seedlings. Credit: Lobachevsky University The intensity of the reflected light is calculated as the difference between the reflected light during each pulse of yellow-green light and before such a pulse (Fig. 1), which allows one to eliminate the influence of other light sources on the measurement results. Ekaterina Sukhova's research has proved that the use of yellow-green light pulses eliminates the distorting effects of other light sources on the measurement of the photochemical reflectance index, and therefore improves the accuracy of determining the PRI. Further, the photochemical reflectance index was determined under conditions of stress-inducing light intensities in a number of agricultural plants and was compared with the generally accepted indicator of photosynthetic stressnon-photochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence (Fig. 2). "It appears that both indicators are closely related, which is confirmed by the use of the photochemical reflection index that was measured using yellow-green light pulses to assess the severity of photosynthetic stress of agricultural plants. The magnitude of the change in the photochemical reflectance index, which is linearly related to the intensity of stress on the plants under study, is a particularly effective indicator," Ekaterina Sukhova says. On the whole, Lobachevsky University researchers obtained two significant results. First, it was shown that the use of periodic pulses of yellow-green light reduces the error in measuring the photochemical reflectance index and, secondly, scientists have found that the change of the PRI in the light is a more reliable indicator of the severity of photosynthetic stress in a plant than its absolute magnitude. "These results provide the basis for a new approach to measuring the photochemical reflectance index, which involves pulsed illumination of the plant objects under study. The implementation of this approach opens up new prospects in remote monitoring of the state of agricultural plants. It means that this method will become an important tool in precision farming," continues Ekaterina Sukhova. Currently, scientists at Lobachevsky University and their colleagues from the Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences are working to further develop the proposed method and to adapt it for measuring the spatial distribution of the photochemical reflectance index. "In particular, a PRI imaging system based on the illumination of objects under study with pulses of yellow-green light has already been developed and is being tested. It is expected that the prototype already developed will become the basis for a commercial system for assessing the state of plants based on measuring the spatial distribution of the photochemical reflectance index," Ekaterina Sukhova concludes. Explore further The influence of plant photosynthetic indices on the effectiveness of PRI use More information: Ekaterina Sukhova et al, Analysis of Light-Induced Changes in the Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI) in Leaves of Pea, Wheat, and Pumpkin Using Pulses of Green-Yellow Measuring Light, Remote Sensing (2019). Ekaterina Sukhova et al, Analysis of Light-Induced Changes in the Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI) in Leaves of Pea, Wheat, and Pumpkin Using Pulses of Green-Yellow Measuring Light,(2019). DOI: 10.3390/rs11070810 Cressida Dick, Metropolitan Police Commissioner. Credit: Isabel Infantes It has been a busy few days in the fierce debate about addressing the knife crime problem in England and Wales. London Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick unveiled year-on-year declines in knife crime and homicides in the capital for the year ended March, and claimed it was thanks to more police stop and search. Just days earlier, the College of Policing, which oversees police standards in England and Wales, said more or less the opposite about the tactic. Stop and search, it said, risks aggrieving people subjected to it and making them more likely to commit violent crimes down the line; instead, it wants England and Wales to adopt the more progressive approach to policing that has emerged in Scotland. Knife crime rates have certainly been a political cause celebre in recent months. The official 2017-18 figures for England and Wales were the highest since records began: homicides up by around a third year-on-year to 285, and total knife offences rising close to 40,000. With London a large contributor to these numbers, its new figures out earlier than everywhere else are quite a contrast. Homicides are down by a quarter, while knife-related injuries are down 10%. It comes only weeks after Sajid Javid, the home secretary, made it easier for police to use stop and search. In particular, he loosened the rules around "Section 60" searches, which in certain circumstances such as public events can be mandated by senior police to allow officers to get around the rule that they must have reasonable suspicion that the person to be searched is carrying an offensive weapon. The new London figures appear to vindicate these measures to make stop and search easier, but it's not actually that simple. The fall in knife crime may turn out to be blip, since annual figures are notoriously changeable, and a correlation with increased stop and search doesn't necessarily mean causation. There is plenty of evidence to support the College of Policing's argument that the stop and search measures are a step in the wrong direction. At this stage, it's hard to say anything conclusive. If these subtleties appear to have been lost on Dick and Javid, it points to an important difference with how police policy has developed in Scotland in the past five years: academics have been allowed to play a major role in the Scottish reform process. This is one reason why Scotland has taken a more progressive approach to policing and stop and search to the one being pursued in London. This has been achieved without any noticeable rise in the violent crime figures, while there is certainly a case to be made that this will benefit relations between police and young people. The College of Policing wants something similar adopted in England and Wales, along with the philosophy of the Glasgow-based Violence Reduction Unit, which has championed viewing violent crime as a "disease" that needs to be treated at source to stop it from spreading. To properly inform the debate about policing in England and Wales, however, it's important to understand how the involvement of academics in Scotland has played out. Scotland's journey Prior to 2015, Scottish stop and search rates were four times higher per capita than England and Wales. This flew under the radar because police often did it with the "permission" of the person they wanted to search. Like Section 60 searches south of the border, obtaining "consent" was a way for Scottish police to avoid the need for reasonable suspicion. Kath Murray brought this to light as part of her Ph.D. research. Particularly worrying, searches involved disproportionate numbers of children, whose permission seemed the most dubious of all. Police Scotland tried to deny there was a problem, before subsequently bowing to pressure and exploring reforms. For example, it piloted a more restrictive stop and search approach in the Fife region in late 2014, and asked us to conduct an independent evaluation. We found elements of good practice, but also that police were still overly reliant on consensual searches and disproportionately targeted youngsters. We recommended scrapping the practice and moving away from confrontational searches towards more preventative policing that was much more engaged with community groups and other interested players. The Scottish government created an independent advisory group to investigate these issues the following year, which used our report as part of the evidence. The group, which included prominent academics, recommended a code of practice for stop and search and an end to consensual searches. The government implemented both recommendations in the Criminal Justice (Scotland) Act 2016. Police Scotland, meanwhile, accepted all 19 of our recommendations. It set up an internal governance structure to oversee the new regime, involving academic researchers throughout. Most prominent was a research group, which included ourselves, Murray and others. We met roughly every six weeks from 2015-18, consulting on every stage of the reform process. We wouldn't claim the arrangement was perfect, nor that we completely agreed with every police decision, but we think the process has helped to forge a more collaborative policing system that engages with partners and communities and focuses less on target-driven reactive methods. It can be a challenge to play the role of "critical friends" when you are so frequently in contact with an organisation like the police, but it can be done if you are vigilant about academic independence. As shown in previous studies, such a two-way flow of information is the best way to get people in public services to fully consider research findings in their decision making. The police reform process incorporated research, for example, that gave a voice to frontline officers, as well as people who experience stop and search. Both groups are usually ignored when senior officers make policy decisions. All the extra police contact can also inform research: we have already conducted a review of how visible policing affects public confidence, while one of us is supervising a Ph.D. on the cultural changes involved in Scotland's stop and search journey. The Home Office needs to look at how to incorporate a similar two-way approach in England and Wales. There are signs that academic researchers are influencing certain aspects of policing south of the border: the N8 Partnership tailors research and gives advice on police policy in the north of England, for instance, while EMPAC does something similar in the East Midlands. Yet these groups are based on temporary funding and their contributions are mainly regional. The fact that Commissioner Dick and the home secretary are promoting stop and search to curb knife crime speaks volumes about the lack of influence of researchers at national level. It's a gap that could make a major difference to how the police service develops in the years to come. Explore further Stop and search report leads to policy change This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Experts say the US and North Korea are closer to nuclear war than many Americans believe. North Korea's leader, Chairman Kim Jong Un, clearly is in no hurry to demilitarize his country. In the wake of two historic yet unproductive summits with President Trump, Kim made a state visit in April to Moscow, where he made clear that his country will not give up its nuclear weapons without international security guarantees. North Korea also tested what appeared to be short-range missiles on April 18 and May 4. These tests are reminders that North Korea's military forces, particularly its nuclear arsenal, pose a serious threat to the United States and its Asian allies. This reclusive nation is a high-priority U.S. intelligence target, but there are still large uncertainties about the power of its nuclear weapons. North Korean scientists work in isolation from the rest of the world, and defectors are far and few between. My research focuses on improving techniques for estimating the yield, or size, of underground nuclear explosions by using physics-based simulations. Science and technology give us a lot of tools for assessing the nuclear capabilities of countries like North Korea, but it's still difficult to track and accurately measure the size and power of their nuclear arsenals. Here's a look at some of the challenges. A nation in the dark For an isolated nation like North Korea, developing a functional nuclear weapons program is a historic feat. Just eight other sovereign states have accomplished this goal the five declared nuclear weapons states (the United States, Russia, Britain, France and China) plus Israel, India and Pakistan. North Korea has been developing nuclear weapons since the mid-1980s. Paradoxically, in 1985 it also joined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, or NPT, under which it pledged not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons. But by 2002, U.S. intelligence discovered evidence that North Korea was producing enriched uranium a technological milestone that can yield explosive material to power nuclear weapons. In response the U.S. suspended fuel oil shipments to North Korea, which prompted the North to leave the NPT in 2003. Then the North resumed a previously shuttered program to extract plutonium from spent uranium fuel. Plutonium-based nuclear weapons are more energy-dense than uranium-based designs, so they can be smaller and more mobile without sacrificing yield. North Korea conducted its first nuclear test on Oct. 6, 2006. Many experts considered the test to be unsuccessful because the size of the explosion, as determined from seismograms, was relatively small. However, that conclusion was based on incomplete information. And the test still served as a powerful domestic propaganda tool and international display of might. Experts say the US and North Korea are closer to nuclear war than many Americans believe. More tests, more uncertainty Since 2006 North Korea has conducted five more nuclear tests, each one larger than the last. Scientists are still working to measure their yield accurately. This question is important, because it reveals how advanced the North Korean nuclear program is, which has implications for global security. Estimates of the size of North Korea's most recent test in September 2017 place it between 70 and 280 kilotons of TNT equivalent. For reference, that's five to 20 times stronger than the bomb that was dropped on Hiroshima. In fact, the explosion was so strong that it caused the mountain under which it was detonated to collapse by several meters. We have a variety of tools for gaining knowledge about these events, ranging from satellite imagery to radar and seismograms. These methods give us an idea of North Korea's capabilities, but they all have drawbacks. One difficulty common to all of them is uncertainty about geological conditions at the test site. Without a good understanding of the geology, it's difficult to accurately model the explosions and replicate observations. It is even harder to constrain the error associated with those estimates. Another, less understood phenomenon is the effect of fracture damage at the test site. North Korea has conducted all of its nuclear tests at the same location. Field experiments have shown that such repeat tests dampen the outgoing seismic and infrasound waves, making the explosion appear weaker than it actually is. This happens because the rock that was fractured by the first explosion is more loosely held together and acts like a giant muffler. These processes are poorly understood and contribute to even more uncertainty. Additionally, my research and work by other scientists have shown that many types of rock enhance the production of earthquake-like seismic waves by underground explosions. The more energy from an explosion that gets converted into these earthquake-like waves, the more difficult it becomes to estimate the size of the explosion. What do we know? What U.S. officials do know is that North Korea has an active nuclear weapons program, and any such program poses an existential threat to the United States and the world at large. Intelligence experts in South Korea and nuclear scientists in the United States estimate that North Korea has between 30 and 60 nuclear weapons in reserve, with the ability to produce more in the future. It's still unclear how far North Korea can deliver nuclear weapons. However, their ability to produce plutonium enables them to make small, easily transportable nuclear bombs, which increase the threat. In the face of such developments, one course of action available to the U.S. that would serve our country's national security interests is to negotiate with North Korea in good faith, but accept nothing less than complete nuclear disarmament on the Korean peninsula. And any such agreement will have to be verified through disclosures and inspections to ensure that North Korea doesn't cheat. That's impossible if U.S. experts don't have an accurate accounting of what the North has achieved so far. The more that Americans negotiators know about Pyongyang's nuclear activities to date, the better prepared they will be to set realistic terms if and when North Korea decides as other nations have that its future is brighter without nuclear weapons. Explore further Seoul: Small quake in North Korea likely due to mining blast This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Donald Trump (L, pictured January 2017) said GM chief Mary Barra (R) had told him of plans to sell the Lordstown, Ohio plant to Workhorse, a company focusing on electric delivery vehicles General Motors Wednesday announced plans to invest $700 million in Ohio and to sell a shuttered plant to a company that makes electric trucks, drawing cheers from President Donald Trump who has assailed the US automaker for cutting American jobs. "GREAT NEWS FOR OHIO!" Trump tweeted, revealing the details ahead of the company's official announcement. Shortly after Trump's tweet, GM confirmed it is in discussions with Workhorse, a Cincinnati-based company that focuses on producing electric delivery vehicles, to sell its plant in Lordstown, Ohio. The factory employed about 1,400 workers prior to ceasing production in March. CEO Mary Barra said in a statement GM will "remain committed to growing manufacturing jobs in the US, including in Ohio, and we see this development as a potential win-win for everyone." Last November, GM shuttered five US plants, including auto assembly plants in Michigan and Ohio, as part of a 15 percent cut in its workforce worldwideaffecting around 14,000 employeesa move that drew Trump's wrath. In March, however, the automaker announced plans to invest $1.8 billion in US operations creating 700 new jobs. About $300 million will be geared towards producing electric vehicles at the auto giant's Orion plant in Michigan, creating 400 jobs. On Wednesday the company said it intends to invest $700 million in facilities in three Ohio cities, creating 450 jobs. That will allow GM to expand diesel engine production for heavy-duty trucks, truck transmissions and other parts. GM Lordstown workers protested the decision to close the plant GM did not specify whether the $700 million investment was part of, or in addition to its commitment taken in March. "I have been working nicely with GM to get this done. Thank you to Mary B, your GREAT Governor, and Senator Rob Portman. With all the car companies coming back, and much more, THE USA IS BOOMING!" Trump said. The US president has repeatedly berated companies by name to pressure them into investing more or reversing decisions on job cuts. Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said the potential agreement for the 50-year-old Lordstown plant "creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community." Plans for Canada GM separately announced Wednesday that it will invest Can$170 million (US$126 million) to transition its Oshawa, Ontario auto assembly plant that had been slated to close at the end of the year, to parts manufacturing and a future site for autonomous vehicle testing. The move will save 300 of the roughly 2,500 union jobs at the plant east of Toronto, with the possibility to grow employment, GM Canada President Travis Hester and Unifor union head Jerry Dias told reporters. GM will save a least some Canadian jobs by reconfiguring a plant due to close at the end of the year "By maintaining a footprint in Oshawa, and keeping the plant intact, we save hundreds of jobs and this gives us the ability to build and create new jobs in the future," Dias said. "We are in a much better position than we were five months ago when the plant was closing," he added. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also took to Twitter to applaud the development, calling it "good news for our auto workers in Oshawa." But he said, "There's more work to do to support our workers, and we will never stop fighting for them & their families." The announcement came after months of talks were held between GM and the Canadian autoworkers union to try to salvage those jobs. Production began in 1953 and at its peak in the 1980s, the plant employed roughly 23,000 people. The plant recently underwent a retooling with the help of a Can$500 million federal grant. Explore further GM announces jobs, electric vehicle after Trump criticism 2019 AFP Unusual geometry of TRAP-cage. Credit: Nature (2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1185-4 Researchers from an international collaboration have succeeded in creating a "protein cage"a nanoscale structure that could be used to deliver drugs to specific places of the body, and which can be readily assembled and disassembled, but also withstands boiling and other extreme conditions. They did this by exploring geometries not found in nature reminiscent of "paradoxical geometries" found in Islamic art. Role-playing gamersat least those who played before the digital ageare aware that there are restrictions governing the shape of dice; try to make a six-sided die by replacing the square faces with triangles, and you will be left with something horribly distorted and certainly not fair. This is because there are strict geometrical rules governing the assembly of these so-called isohedra. In nature, isohedral structures are found at the nano level. Usually made from many protein subunits and having a hollow interior, these protein cages carry out many important tasks. The most famous examples are viruses that use protein cages as a carrier of viral genetic material into host cells. Synthetic biologists, for their part, are interested in making artificial protein cages in the hope of imparting them with useful and novel properties. There are two challenges to achieving this goal. The first is the geometry problemsome candidate proteins may have great potential utility, but are automatically ruled out because they have the wrong shape to assemble into cages. The second problem is complexitymost protein-protein interactions are mediated via complex networks of weak chemical bonds that are very difficult to engineer from scratch. The new research began at the Heddle Initiative Research Unit at RIKEN in Japan and moved to Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Poland. The researchers found a way to solve both problems. "We were able to replace the complex interactions between proteins with simple 'staples' based on the coordination of single gold atoms," explains Professor Jonathan Heddle, the senior author of the research. "This simplifies the design problem and allows us to imbue the cages with new properties such as assembly and disassembly on demand." The researchers also found a way to get around the geometrical problem: "The building blocks of our protein cage are 11-membered rings." says Ali Malay, the first author of the paper, who is currently in the RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science. "Mathematically speaking, such shapes should be forbidden from forming symmetrical polyhedra." However, the researchers found that due to inherent flexibility, protein complexes can achieve previously unprecedented constructions based on near-perfect geometrical coincidences. "Previously, proteins that were ignored because they had the 'wrong' shape can now be considered," says Malay. The implications of the work are far-reaching. "What we, together with our collaborators, have found, is simply the first step," says Heddle, who hopes that the work can be expanded further to produce cages with new structures and new capabilities and also investigated for potential applications particularly in drug delivery. The study is published in Nature. More information: An ultra-stable gold-coordinated protein cage displaying reversible assembly, Nature (2019). www.nature.com/articles/s41586-019-1185-4 Journal information: Nature An ultra-stable gold-coordinated protein cage displaying reversible assembly,(2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1185-4 Two ways to cool. A refrigerator transfers heat from a cold object to its warmer surroundings (left). By contrast, an active cooling system helps heat move more efficiently in its natural direction, from a hot object to the cooler surroundings (right). A new active cooling system is optimized for this second purpose and may be useful for cooling hot components. Credit: M. J. Adams/Ohio State University, via Physics A team of researchers from the Ohio State University and the University of Virginia has found a way to use metals with a high thermoelectric power factor to create efficient all-solid-state active coolers. In their paper published in the journal Physical Review Applied, the group describes their new approach to cooling electronic devices and how well it worked. Active cooling systems, by definition, are cooling systems that use electricity to cool a hot or warm device down to ambient temperatures. In this new effort, the researchers have found that such systems could benefit from the use of special metals. They also coined a new term to use as a metriceffective thermal conductivity. In active cooling systems, heat-carrying charge carriers flow from the hot side of an object to the cooler side when electricity is appliedeffective thermal conductivity is a number that is calculated by adding a system's active thermal conductivity (when electricity is applied) to its passive conductivity (when the electricity is off). As the researchers note, most commercial cooling systems have been optimized over the years for use in refrigeration applications, and are thus not ideal for active cooling situations such as removing heat from a computer. They note also that engineers typically use a measure called the thermoelectric figure of merit (zT) to describe the efficiency of such systems. But again, they suggest it is not a good metric for active cooling systems. To improve the efficiency of such systems, the researchers looked for materials that had better-than-conventional thermal conductivity. They found two that showed promise: Kondo-effect metals and magnon-drag metals. They built a Peltier cooler using the metals (cobalt and cerium-palladium) and set it between various hot and cold materials, and then tested it to see how efficient it was at removing the heat on the hot side and sending it to the cold side. The researchers report that when they applied five amps to the device, it pulled out approximately 100 more milliwatts of heat than it did when no power was applied. In terms of thermal conductivity, the device was measured at 40 W/mK in passive mode and reached 1000 W/mK with some heat differentials. Explore further New material to pave the way for more efficient electronic devices More information: M.J. Adams, et al. Active Peltier Coolers Based on Correlated and Magnon-Drag Metals, Physical Review Applied (2019). M.J. Adams, et al. Active Peltier Coolers Based on Correlated and Magnon-Drag Metals,(2019). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevApplied.11.054008 2019 Science X Network Liquid metal drop, used to make the mini-centrifuge, sits on the channel where samples will eventually be pumped through. Credit: RMIT University A simple innovation the size of a grain of sand means we can now analyse cells and tiny particles as if they were inside the human body. The new micro-device for fluid analysis will enable more tailored experiments in drug development and disease research via new 'organ-on-chip' systems. It could also transform water contamination testing and medical diagnosis in natural disaster zones, where its low cost, simple use and portability make it a practical tool almost anyone can use. How it works Microfluidic or 'lab-on-a-chip' devices are commonly used to analyse blood and other fluid samples, which are pumped through narrow channels in a transparent chip the size of a postage stamp. This new chip takes that technology one step further by adding a three-dimensional cavity along the channelthink of a narrow tunnel that suddenly opens into a domed vaultwhich creates a mini-vortex where particles spin around, making them easier to observe. To make this cavity, researchers inserted a liquid metal drop onto the silicon mould when making the chip. The liquid metal's high surface tension means it holds its form during the moulding process. Finally the liquid metal is removed, leaving just the channel and a spherical cavity ready to use as a mini-centrifuge, explained RMIT engineer and study co-leader Dr. Khashayar Khoshmanesh. "When the fluid sample enters the spherical-shaped cavity, it spins inside the cavity," he said. "This spinning creates a natural vortex, which just like a centrifuge machine in an analytics lab, spins the cells or other biological samples, allowing them to be studied without the need for capturing or labelling them." The device only requires tiny samples, as little as 1 ml of water or blood, and can be used to study tiny bacterial cells measuring just 1 micron, all the way up to human cells as large as 15 microns. A platform for studying cardiovascular diseases Study co-leader and RMIT biologist, Dr. Sara Baratchi, said the device's soft spherical cavities could be used to mimic 3-D human organs and observe how cells behave in various flow conditions or drug interactions. Footage of the mini centrifuge device in action. Credit: RMIT University "The ability to tailor the size of the cavity also allows for different flow situations to be simulatedthis way we can mimic the response of blood cells under disturbed flow situations, for example at branch points and curvatures of coronary and carotid arteries, which are more prone to narrowing," she said. This capability will be of interest to Australia's booming biomedical industry, with medical apparatus being among our top 10 exports in 2018 and worth $3.2 billion. Baratchi said the discovery was only made possible through collaboration, with technologists from the School of Engineering and mechano-biologists in the School of Health and Biomedical Sciences joining forces in RMIT's Mechanobiology and Microfluidics research group. "Biologists like myself have been struggling to study the impact of flow-associated forces on circulatory blood cells. Now this miniaturised device developed with our engineering colleagues does exactly that," Baratchi said. "It's an ingenious solution that really highlights the value of cross-disciplinary research." But some of the most exciting applications could also be outside the lab. A cheap and portable water test that anyone can use Another promising application is for identifying parasites and other infections in waterways, especially in developing countries. "Detection of water impurities can be a difficult task because you don't always know exactly what you're looking for," Khoshmanesh said. "But with this device the impurities will be captured and orbited by the vortex without any special sample preparation, saving time and money." Whether used for analysing water or blood samples, the low cost and portability of the device makes it attractive for a whole range of applications. The same research group recently developed a pressure pump, made from latex balloons, to operate the device. Unlike conventional pumps, which can be as large as a shoebox and cost thousands of dollars, theirs is low cost and portable. "Simplicity is a very important parameter for our designs because that often translates to lower cost and great applicability outside the lab," Khoshmanesh said. "Our new microfluidic device, combined with our pump and a smartphone capable of capturing high-speed images, makes a low-cost, self-sufficient and entirely portable point-of-care diagnostics device." The study, lead-authored by RMIT Engineering PhD student, Ngan Nguyen, is now published in the top-tier Advanced Functional Materials journal. Explore further New microfluidics device can detect cancer cells in blood More information: Ngan Nguyen et al, Inertial Microfluidics with Integrated Vortex Generators Using Liquid Metal Droplets as Fugitive Ink, Advanced Functional Materials (2019). Journal information: Advanced Functional Materials Ngan Nguyen et al, Inertial Microfluidics with Integrated Vortex Generators Using Liquid Metal Droplets as Fugitive Ink,(2019). DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201901998 Bubble texture of Guinness beer in a pint glass, featuring the creamy taste of tiny bubbles and fascinating texture motion. Credit: Osaka University A team of researchers from Osaka University and Kirin Holdings Company, Limited demonstrated that the texture formation in a pint glass of Guinness beer is induced by flow of a bubble-free fluid film flowing down along the wall of the glass, a world first. This phenomenon is found to be analogous to roll waves commonly observed in water sliding downhill on a rainy day. Their research results were published in Scientific Reports. Guinness beer, a dark stout beer, is pressurized with nitrogen gas. When it is poured into a pint glass, small-diameter bubbles (only 1/10 the size of those in carbonated drinks such as soda and carbonated water) disperse throughout the entire glass and the texture motion of the bubble swarm moves downward. Although some models have been proposed to explain how the downward wave of a bubble swarm forms in Guinness beer, the mechanism underlying the texture formation was an open problem. Because the opaque and dark-colored Guinness beer obstructs physical observation in a glass, and computation using supercomputers is necessary to conduct numerical simulation of flows including a vast number of small bubbles in the beer, the team of researchers led by Tomoaki Watamura produced transparent "pseudo-Guinness fluid" by using light particles and tap water. They filmed the movement of liquid with a high-speed video camera, using laser-induced-fluorescence in order to accurately measure the movement of fluid. In addition, using molecular tags, they visualized the irregular movement of the fluid. With these methods, the team poured pseudo-Guinness fluid in an inclined container to observe how the texture formed. The texture formation appeared only in the region of about 1 mm away from the inclined wall, and didn't appear in the vertical wall vicinity. Bubble texture in a rectangular container for various inclination angle (left): Side view of bubble-texture formation in the inclined wall vicinity (right), showing the clear-fluid layer (bubble-free film) and the spatial thickness fluctuations (bubble-free fluid blobs) along the inclined wall. Credit: Osaka University They also observed a clear-fluid (bubble-free) film flow down along the inclined wall in the inclined wall vicinity, capturing velocity and thickness of bubble-free film flowing downward. While the texture appeared when the glass inclination angles were small, it did not when they were large, demonstrating that the texture formation in a glass of Guinness beer was caused by the roll-wave instability of the gravity current. Lead author Watamura says, "There are a large number of small objects in nature, such as fine rock particles transported from rivers to the sea and microorganisms living in lakes and ponds. Comprehending and regulating the movement of small objects is important in various industrial processes as well. Our research results will be useful in understanding and controlling flows of bubbles and particles used in industrial processes as well as protein crystallization and cell cultivation used in the field of life science." More information: Tomoaki Watamura et al, Bubble cascade in Guinness beer is caused by gravity current instability, Scientific Reports (2019). Journal information: Scientific Reports Tomoaki Watamura et al, Bubble cascade in Guinness beer is caused by gravity current instability,(2019). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42094-0 Credit: CC0 Public Domain Relentless negative reporting on economic downturns is impacting on people's emotions and contributing to the suicide rate, according to new research. Carried out by Dr. Adam Cox from the University of Portsmouth and Professor Alan Collins from Nottingham Business School at Nottingham Trent University, the project built on existing work which shows that suicide rates increase in times of economic strife and uncertainty. The study used data from the USA and took into account the 2007 financial crash and global financial crisis to explore 'consumer sentiment' - the emotional reaction and way in which people perceive their economic situation to unfold, such as expecting to lose their employment. The findings revealed that the average suicide rate increased significantly in the aftermath of the financial crisis for all sex and age groups, wherein the effect was stronger for females than for males. There was also a correlation between the Consumer Sentiment Index (CSI) - a measure of consumer's perceptions of their financial situation and of the economy in generaland the average suicide rate. Results showed that a more positive consumer outlook on personal finance and the economy in general, as measured by the CSI, lowers the rate. Alan Collins, Professor of Economics and Public Policy at Nottingham Business School, said: "Our results showed that consumer sentiment plays a significantly greater role in explaining variations of the suicide rate compared to traditional economic indicators such as income and unemployment figures. "People have a 'gut feeling' of how their situation may progress and constant negative announcements, reporting and media communication have an impact on this. Beliefs about future unemployment can also be exacerbated by social media. These relentless messages depress consumer sentiment and raise suicidality, whereas an increase in consumer sentiment makes people more optimistic, which dissuades them from engaging in suicidal behaviour." Dr. Adam Cox, principal lecturer in Economics and Finance at the University of Portsmouth, added: "We also tested the impact of state public and health expenditures and found no evidence to suggest that increased spending lowers suicide. Taken together, these results pose some awkward questions for policymakers, especially in the context of justifying mental health expenditure budgets and communicating economic policy that affects consumers. "Broader consumer sentiment should be recognised as a source of potential mental health issues and communications should reflect this. The qualification rarely made in such communications is that all economic downturns are followed by upswings and that downswings can actually be a good time to contemplate training and education opportunities in preparation for upswings." The full paper 'Suicide, Sentiment and Crisis' has been published online by The Social Science Journal. Explore further Suicide rates fall when states raise minimum wage: study More information: Alan Collins et al, Suicide, sentiment and crisis, The Social Science Journal (2019). Alan Collins et al, Suicide, sentiment and crisis,(2019). DOI: 10.1016/j.soscij.2019.04.001 UNCTAD and Mauritius have signed a memorandum of understanding to open a new center of excellence for the fisheries sector in developing countries. The center will serve as a practical site for putting policy recommendations for least developed countries (LDCs) into action and will bring together experts, researchers and policymakers from the LDCs and other African and Asian countries with strong experiences in developing their fisheries sectors to exchange best practices and insights, UNCTAD said in a press release. This includes providing support to training activities and building institutional, as well as regulatory capacities of developing countries, said Paul Akiwumi, director of UNCTADs division for Africa and least developed countries. The center will host training and capacity-building events for African and Asian countries, with an eye towards harnessing the potential of their fisheries and aquaculture sectors for sustainable growth, transformation and poverty alleviation. It will also provide interactive and hands-on training courses, starting with a regional training course on harnessing the potential of the fisheries sector for socioeconomic development in LDCs. This first training course is taking place May 6 to 11. A similar course was held in Vietnam in November 2018. Many LDCs and small island developing states from Africa, and other regions, stand to benefit from the experience of Mauritius in the development of its domestic fisheries sector, Paul Akiwumi said. With the center, Mauritiuss Ministry of Ocean Economy, Marine Resources, Fisheries and Shipping joins the Nha Trang University of Vietnam, home to the Asian Regional Center of Excellence for the Fisheries Sector, the Royal Tropical Institute of the Netherlands and the European University Institute in Florence, Italy as UNCTAD centers of excellence. LDCs are among the largest producers of fish in the world. Six of the top 16 producers of fish from inland waters are LDCs. For 14 out of the worlds 47 LDCs, fish is one of their top five export products, but globally, the LDC share in total fish exports remains at just 2%. Despite the size and economic importance of fisheries in these countries, the sector remains mostly informal, dominated by small-scale and traditional fishing, with limited scope for food processing or the transformation of fish and seafood into higher-value-added products. Aerial view of where the Araguaia River splits into the Coco River (to the left) in Brazil. Credit: Day's Edge Productions / WWF-US Almost two in three of Earth's longest rivers have been severed by dams, reservoirs or other manmade constructions, severely damaging some of the most important ecosystems on the planet, researchers said Wednesday. Using the latest satellite data and computer modelling software, the international team looked at the connectivity of 12 million kilometres of rivers worldwide, providing the first global assessment of human impact on the planet's waterways. They found that out of the 91 rivers longer than 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) in length, just 21 retained a direct connection between source and sea. Just a little over a third (37 percent) of the 242 longest rivers had retained their free flow, something experts said was having a profound effect on Earth's biodiversity. "The world's rivers form an intricate network with vital links to land, groundwater and the atmosphere," said Gunther Grill from McGill University's Department of Geography and lead author. "Free-flowing rivers are important for humans and the environment alike, yet economic development around the world is making them increasingly rare." Most of the remaining free-flowing rivers were confined to remote parts of the Arctic, the Amazon and the Congo basins, the study found. This week the UN's panel on biodiversity released a summary of its devastating assessment on the state of Nature. The underlying report, which will be made public in the coming weeks, found that 50 percent of rivers "manifest severe impacts of degradation" from human activity. Wednesday's study, published in the journal Nature, laid bare in intricate detail just how drastically manmade activity is impacting our waterways. It estimated there was now a total of 60,000 large dams at least 15 metres tall severing rivers, out of a total of 2.8 million worldwide. The blocking or damming of rivers disrupts the flow of nutrients vital to replace those lost through agriculture, and diminishes the amount of river-bourne species that can complete their life-cycles. 3,700 hydropower projects It also lessens the sediment flows river deltas provide coastal regions with, which currently help to protect millions of people against sea level rises. Less than a quarter of free-flowing rivers now connect to oceans, depriving estuary environment from vital nutrients and sediments. The team warned that dams had already led to a significant fall in river fish, which provide nearly all the animal protein eaten by close to 160 million people. A separate assessment last year from conservation group WWF said freshwater species had experienced the most pronounced decline of all vertebrates over the past century, falling on average 83 percent since 1970. The study also identified more than 3,700 hydropower projects either planned our currently under construction, including some on rivers offering vital life support for the human populations who live along them. While hydroelectric power are significantly cleaner in terms of emissions than oil, gas or coal, the team stressed that mega power projects involving dams and reservoirs could have unforeseen negative effects. "Hydropower certainly has more complex environmental impacts than the often-cited positive effects of avoiding fossil fuels," Bernhard Lehner, a professor at McGill, told AFP. "While hydropower inevitably has a role to play... countries should focus on sustainable options like solar and wind which can have less detrimental impacts on rivers and the communities, cities and biodiversity that rely on them." The health of Earth's rivers will also be impacted as climate change accelerates, affecting flow patterns and water quality, as well as bringing more invasive species, the authors said. Explore further Undervaluing hidden benefits of rivers undermines economies and sustainable development 2019 AFP A Polistes dominula paper wasp on a flower. Credit: Elizabeth Tibbetts. A new University of Michigan study provides the first evidence of transitive inference, the ability to use known relationships to infer unknown relationships, in a nonvertebrate animal: the lowly paper wasp. For millennia, transitive inference was considered a hallmark of human deductive powers, a form of logical reasoning used to make inferences: If A is greater than B, and B is greater than C, then A is greater than C. But in recent decades, vertebrate animals including monkeys, birds and fish have demonstrated the ability to use transitive inference. The only published study that assessed TI in invertebrates found that honeybees weren't up to the task. One possible explanation for that result is that the small nervous system of honeybees imposes cognitive constraints that prevent those insects from conducting transitive inference. Paper wasps have a nervous system roughly the same sizeabout one million neuronsas honeybees, but they exhibit a type complex social behavior not seen in honeybee colonies. University of Michigan evolutionary biologist Elizabeth Tibbetts wondered if paper wasps' social skills could enable them to succeed where honeybees had failed. To find out, Tibbetts and her colleagues tested whether two common species of paper wasp, Polistes dominula and Polistes metricus, could solve a transitive inference problem. The team's findings are scheduled for online publication May 8 in the journal Biology Letters. "This study adds to a growing body of evidence that the miniature nervous systems of insects do not limit sophisticated behaviors," said Tibbetts, a professor in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. "We're not saying that wasps used logical deduction to solve this problem, but they seem to use known relationships to make inferences about unknown relationships," Tibbetts said. "Our findings suggest that the capacity for complex behavior may be shaped by the social environment in which behaviors are beneficial, rather than being strictly limited by brain size." To test for TI, Tibbetts and her colleagues first collected paper wasp queens from several locations around Ann Arbor, Michigan. In the laboratory, individual wasps were trained to discriminate between pairs of colors called premise pairs. One color in each pair was associated with a mild electric shock, and the other was not. "I was really surprised how quickly and accurately wasps learned the premise pairs," said Tibbetts, who has studied the behavior of paper wasps for 20 years. Later, the wasps were presented with paired colors that were unfamiliar to them, and they had to choose between the colors. The wasps were able to organize information into an implicit hierarchy and used transitive inference to choose between novel pairs, Tibbetts said. "I thought wasps might get confused, just like bees," she said. "But they had no trouble figuring out that a particular color was safe in some situations and not safe in other situations." So, why do wasps and honeybeeswhich both possess brains smaller than a grain of riceperform so differently on transitive inference tests? One possibility is that different types of cognitive abilities are favored in bees and wasps because they display different social behaviors. A honeybee colony has a single queen and multiple equally ranked female workers. In contrast, paper wasp colonies have several reproductive females known as foundresses. The foundresses compete with their rivals and form linear dominance hierarchies. A wasp's rank in the hierarchy determines shares of reproduction, work and food. Transitive inference could allow wasps to rapidly make deductions about novel social relationships. That same skill set may enable female paper wasps to spontaneously organize information during transitive inference tests, the researchers hypothesize. For millennia, transitive inference was regarded as a hallmark of human cognition and was thought to be based on logical deduction. More recently, some researchers have questioned whether TI requires higher-order reasoning or can be solved with simpler rules. The study by Tibbetts and her colleagues illustrates that paper wasps can build and manipulate an implicit hierarchy. But it makes no claims about the precise mechanisms that underlie this ability. In previous studies, Tibbetts and her colleagues showed that paper wasps recognize individuals of their species by variations in their facial markings and that they behave more aggressively toward wasps with unfamiliar faces. The researchers have also demonstrated that paper wasps have surprisingly long memories and base their behavior on what they remember of previous social interactions with other wasps. Explore further Remembrance of tussles past: paper wasps show surprisingly strong memory for previous encounters More information: Transitive inference in Polistes paper wasps, Biology Letters, royalsocietypublishing.org/doi .1098/rsbl.2019.0015 Journal information: Biology Letters Transitive inference in Polistes paper wasps, Cabin crew can be lifesavers in any emergency. Credit: Shutterstock/ChameleonsEye The crash of Aeroflot flight SU1492 in Moscow raises concerns about cabin safety in terms of the number of crew needed in an emergency. The Sukhoi Superjet-100 aircraft was carrying 73 passengers and five crew members when it burst into flames at Moscow airport on Sunday. At least 41 people are reported to have died. What happened in the Aeroflot accident and evacuation is now subject to investigation. But what about the broader question of cabin crew safety this incident raises? Cabin crew numbers In 2010 the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) mooted changes to reduce cabin crew numbers from a minimum ratio of 1 for every 36 passengers to 1 per 50 passengers. The 1/50 had been global standard for years, but until 2010 Australia had the higher standard of 1/36 (since the inception of the jet age). It's reasonable to assume the Aeroflot aircraft would have been operating under the same international 1/50 regulation. In 2011 an inquiry into cabin crew numbers was set up by the Australian Government's House Standing Committee on Infrastructure and Communications. In submissions, Qantas and others argued that 1/50 was the global standard despite the fact we already had a higher standard. The Flight Attendants' Association of Australia and the Australian & International Pilots' Association were among those calling for no change. Evacuation tests The argument made by those advocating for change from 1/36 to 1/50 was that certification by the regulatory authority in the country of aircraft manufacture required a full evacuation demonstration to be successfully carried out by that manufacturer. The demonstration had to prove that a full complement of passengers and crew could successfully evacuate the aircraft in 90 seconds. Russian airline Aeroflots Sukhoi Superjet 100 on fire at Moscows Sheremetyevo airport. Credit: EPA/Russian Investigative Committee Additionally, for many years in Australia the civil aviation regulator, now CASA, required an additional partial evacuation demonstration be conducted by the airline wanting to introduce the new aircraft into service. That demonstration had to show the airline's own crew could evacuate the aircraft with half the cabin crew complement with half a load of passengers and through half of the doors in 90 seconds. But the potentially flawed part of that argument was these evacuation demonstrations were carried out with the aircraft intact, sitting evenly on its wheels with no real emergency, no fire, smoke or obstructions in the cabin, no real threat of death adding dire urgency, and no panic among the passengers. In my experience, they don't really test how the passengers will react or the crew will function under the severe stress of an emergency like the case in Russia with the Aeroflot aircraft fire. The Russian crash also shows that the 90-second time standard needs to be reviewed. Aeroflot says the evacuation of the Sukkoi aircraft took only 55 seconds, through only half the doors, and still more than half the passengers didn't get out. A change in the ratio The report of the Standing Committee inquiry actually recommended keeping the 1/36 ratio but the government rejected this, saying: "The unequivocal advice from both CASA and OTS (Office of Transport Security) is that having a one cabin crew member to every fifty passenger seats ratio in Australia does not reduce the safety or security of domestic aircraft operations." On flights with less than 216 passengers, CASA has been allowing some airlines to operate on the 1/50 ratio since 2006, although the appropriate legislation has still to be changed to reflect this. The real issue in play when the cabin crew ratio was being changed in Australia, was the Australian airlines were at a competitive disadvantage against internationals operating into Australia, so the Australian airlines wanted parity. I can see the commercial argument. But in my 40 years working in air safety, it was the only time I'd seen airlines openly argue a position for what was actually a lower standard of safety than already in place. How many exits? One of the serious problems that resulted from the cabin crew ratio rule change that went under the regulatory radar is that now on 100 to 149 seat aircraft, only three cabin crew are mandated. Emergency exits left and right. Credit: Shutterstock/Chatree But such aircraft can have four main cabin doors that can be used as emergency exits in the case of an accident. So now on those aircraft there is one door, front or rear dependent on airline procedures, without a cabin crew member stationed at it to operate the door and control the evacuation there in an emergency. The airline procedures assign responsibility for operation of that door and the one on the opposite side of the cabin to the one cabin crew member. In my opinion this is a serious reduction in safety. There is little doubt that in an emergency of the type suffered by the Sukkoi Superjet, the one cabin crew member would have no hope of operating two exits with the passengers panicking and pressing to get out. Lives at risk? I believe lives will be lost in future because of the rule changes. Consider an aircraft operating in Australia that had between 100 and 149 seats under the current rules it would have only three flight attendants. If a similar accident to that of the Aeroflot aircraft happened, the two rear exits would be blocked by fire. (The flight attendant at the rear of the crashed aircraft reportedly died trying to carry out their duties at the rear exits. If there had been only one cabin crew member stationed at the front of the aircraft, not an unusual circumstance now, it is very possible that only one forward exit would be promptly opened. That would seriously impact the number of passengers who would escape through the one exit before the cabin was fully involved in the fire with smoke and flames? The Sukkoi accident shines a light on the decisions that were made at the time of the Australian rule changes. The rules need to be changed again to mandate a cabin crew member for every floor level exit. So in a 100 to 149 seat aircraft with four entry/exit doors, the minimum cabin crew complement would be four, not three. Then the 1/50 ratio could then apply for any extra cabin crew once all floor level exits are staffed. In my opinion this rule change is need internationally, not just in Australia. The International Civil Aviation Organisation needs to act, before more lives are lost. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Fossil casts of Australopithecus afarensis (left), Homo habilis (center), and Australopithecus sediba (right) Credit: Matt Wood, UChicago Statistical analysis of fossil data shows that it is unlikely that Australopithecus sediba, a nearly two-million-year-old, apelike fossil from South Africa, is the direct ancestor of Homo, the genus to which modern-day humans belong. The research by paleontologists from the University of Chicago, published this week in Science Advances, concludes by suggesting that Australopithecus afarensis, of the famous "Lucy" skeleton, is still the most likely ancestor to the genus Homo. The first A. sediba fossils were unearthed near Johannesburg in 2008. Hundreds of fragments of the species have since been discovered, all dating to roughly two million years ago. The oldest known Homofossil, the jawbone of an as yet unnamed species found in Ethiopia, is 2.8 million years old, predating A. sediba by 800,000 years. Despite this timeline, the researchers who discovered A. sediba have claimed that it is an ancestral species to Homo. While it is possible that A. sediba (the hypothesized ancestor) could have postdated earliest Homo (the hypothesized descendant) by 800,000 years, the new analysis indicates that the probability of finding this chronological pattern is highly unlikely. "It is definitely possible for an ancestor's fossil to postdate a descendant's by a large amount of time," said the study's lead author Andrew Du, Ph.D., who will join the faculty at Colorado State University after concluding his postdoctoral research in the lab of Zeray Alemseged, Ph.D., the Donald M. Pritzker Professor of Organismal and Biology and Anatomy at UChicago. "We thought we would take it one step further to ask how likely it is to happen, and our models show that the probability is next to zero," Du said. Du and Alemseged also reviewed the scientific literature for other hypothesized ancestor-descendant relationships between two hominin species. Of the 28 instances they found, only one first-discovered fossil of a descendant was older than its proposed ancestor, a pair of Homo species separated by 100,000 years, far less than the 800,000 years separating A. sediba and earliest Homo. For context, the average lifespan of any hominin species is about one million years. "Again, we see that it's possible for an ancestor's fossil to postdate its descendant's," Du said. "But 800,000 years is quite a long time." Alemseged and Du maintain that Australopithecus afarensisis a better candidate for the direct ancestor of Homofor a number of reasons. A. afarensis fossils have been dated up to three million years old, nearing the age of the first Homo jaw. Lucy and her counterparts, including Selam, the fossil of an A. afarensischild that Alemseged discovered in 2000, were found in Ethiopia, just miles from where the Homo jaw was discovered. The jaw's features also resemble those of A. afarensis closely enough that one could make the case it was a direct descendant. "Given the timing, geography and morphology, these three pieces of evidence make us think afarensisis a better candidate than sediba," Alemseged said. "One can disagree about morphology and the different features of a fossil, but the level of confidence we can put in the mathematical and statistical analyses of the chronological data in this paper makes our argument a very strong one." Explore further Scientists confirm pair of skeletons are from same early hominin species More information: A. Du el al., "Temporal evidence shows Australopithecus sediba is unlikely to be the ancestor of Homo," Science Advances (2019). Journal information: Science Advances A. Du el al., "Temporal evidence shows Australopithecus sediba is unlikely to be the ancestor of Homo,"(2019). advances.sciencemag.org/content/5/5/eaav9038 A small Cessna soared high above the Mojave Desert recently, its engine growling in the choppy morning air. As the aircraft skirted the mountains on the edge of Death Valley National Park, a clutch of passengers and environmentalists peered intently at a broiling salt flat thousands of feet below. The desolate beauty of the Panamint Valley has long drawn all manner of naturalists, adventurers and social outcastsincluding Charles Mansonoff-road vehicle riders and top gun fighter pilots who blast overhead in simulated dogfights. Now this prehistoric lake bed is shaping up to be an unlikely battleground between environmentalists and battery technologists who believe the area might hold the key to a carbon-free future. Recently, the Australia-based firm Battery Mineral Resources Ltd. asked the federal government for permission to drill four exploratory wells to see if the hot, salty brine beneath the valley floor contains economically viable concentrations of lithium. The soft, silvery-white metal is a key component of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and is crucial to the production of electric and hybrid vehicles. The drilling request has generated strong opposition from the Center for Biological Diversity, the Sierra Club and the Defenders of Wildlife, who say the drilling project would be an initial step toward the creation of a full-scale lithium mining operation. They say lithium extraction would bring industrial sprawl, large and unsightly drying ponds and threaten a fragile ecosystem that supports Nelson's bighorn sheep, desert tortoises and the Panamint alligator lizard, among other species. "A lithium mine would destroy these spectacular panoramas," drilling opponent Tom Budlong said recently as he and fellow activists buzzed over the Panamint Valley in a chartered Ecoflight aircraft. The battle could be a fierce one. Lithium is expected to play an increasingly important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from cars and trucks, and has been designated by the Trump administration as a mineral essential to the economic and national security of the United States. In addition to powering countless laptops and cellphones, lithium-ion batteries may also play a role in guarding against power line wildfire ignitions. The only functioning lithium mine in North America is about 150 miles away in Clayton Valley, Nev. Most of the lithium used for batteries now comes from the so-called Lithium Triangle of South Americaa region that includes the world's largest salt flats. For dyed-in-the-wool environmentalists, the brewing war over lithium mining poses a moral dilemma as it seemingly pits them against efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Constructed with the world's lightest metal, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries allow vehicles to run on power generated by wind turbines, solar panels, hydroelectric dams and other clean-energy sources. In California alone, officials hope to see as many as 5 million such zero-emission vehicles on state highways by 2030. Drilling opponents also acknowledge that the burden of producing lithium should not just fall on nations with less restrictive health and safety regulations and environmental safeguards. "It's a tricky question," said Lisa Belenky, senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. "We shouldn't export the sacrifices to Bolivia and Argentina, for example, which have massive lithium mines. ... We also think that Panamint Valley is not the right place for it." The Inyo County drilling sites are overseen by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, which, under federal law, is obligated to not only preserve public lands, but make them productive as well. The BLM must set aside some lands for mining and wilderness, for wildlife and off-road vehicle riders alike. But environmentalists say the agency is tilting too far toward the needs of commercial interests and away from the long-term health of the public's natural resources. They worry approval of the plan could trigger a "white gold rush" across the deserts of Southern California. Already, nearly 2,000 lithium claims have been staked across 30,000 acres of public land administered by the BLM in California. In a formal response to the drilling proposal, a dozen environmental organizations expressed concerns about the effects on ground and surface water if exploration leads to an industrial-scale mine. The environmental assessment "does not include mapping of floodplain boundaries, nor any hydrologic modeling or analysis," the response read. "There is no discussion of the risks to cross contamination from the deep brines to the freshwater aquifer, and the drill site reclamation practices do not appear to have taken this risk into account." Among those who have spoken against the plan are officials at Death Valley National Park. A large mining operation would have "significant water requirements," Death Valley National Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds wrote in comments filed with the BLM. Reynolds said water in the area flows downhill from the park to the mine sites on the valley floor. "This water would normally help support wildlife within the local ecosystem," he wrote. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management is expected to make a final decision on Battery Mineral Resources' request later this year. Battery Mineral Resources failed to respond to repeated requests for comment on the proposal. However, an environmental assessment of its exploratory project concluded it would be safe, prevent significant environmental harm and abide by state and federal regulations. As of April, the company reported anticipated costs of more than $7 million for exploration, claim maintenance fees and payments to a geology consultant in Arroyo Grande. The Panamint Valley shares many of the geological features seen in profitable lithium-brine deposits in Chile, Argentina, Bolivia and Nevada: arid climate, an active fault, a basin encircled by rock mountains, and underground brine pools heated by geothermal activity. Lithium brine deposits account for the majority of world's lithium production. The process involves pumping water from aquifers and placing it in a succession of large evaporation pools. Over time, the lithium becomes more and more concentrated and can be separated from the water and processed. In addition to Panamint Valley, lithium mining claims have been staked in portions of the Amargosa Basin near Beatty, Nev., which includes stretches of the Amargosa River, which was listed earlier this year as a National Wild and Scenic River. Although environmentalists fear a run on lithium, one expert said it was no simple task to open a mining operation. A yearslong effort to establish one at Imperial County's Salton Sea has yet to bear fruit. "On the face of it, extracting lithium from brine seems simplepump it out of the ground, and then divert it into evaporation ponds that leave behind heaps of dried product ready for shipping," said Brian Jaskula, a U.S. Geological Survey expert on mining. While lithium-ion batteries currently dominate the electric vehicle market, they face competition from an array of new, more affordable and environmentally safe technologies in development, said Parans Paranthaman, group leader of the chemical sciences division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tenn. "Lithium-ion batteries, which were developed in 1991, are the most viable in the near term," he said. "But beyond lithium, there will soon be zine, sodium, magnesium and potassium batteries, among others." Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, the owner of the Los Angeles Times, is also the chairman of NantEnergy, an El Segundo-based firm that has developed a rechargeable zinc-air battery, as well as a hybrid zinc-air and lithium-ion battery. The batteries are used primarily in microgrids and communication facilities. On a recent weekday in Panamint Valley, sentiment was split over the prospect of a lithium mining operation in this sparsely populated area of Inyo County. Rock Novak, 65, the caretaker of a trading post in the strike-it-rich ghost town of Ballarat, was telling anyone who would listen that environmental protections are unwanted encroachments on the region's enjoyment of unshackled freedom from everyday rules and regimens. Sitting back in a chair on a wooden porch and gazing out at salt flats that host a frenzy of high-speed driving by off-roaders, Novak said, "I'd rather see this desert torn up by mining than be under the dictatorship of the National Park Service." Not far away, in Surprise Canyon, hikers wandered a trail that follows a perennial, spring-fed stream fringed with cottonwood trees and wild orchids that earlier this year was designated a National Wild and Scenic River. Most of the hikers were part of the 9th annual Wilderness Torah, a heavily attended outdoor camping event held to celebrate Judaism's spiritual connections with nature. Another hiker was David Lamfrom, director of California and Desert programs for the National Parks Conservation Association, who wondered whether the charms of Surprise Canyonsilence, solitude and natural beautycould survive in the face of pumping systems, evaporation ponds and heavy equipment spread across thousands of acres. "This is a misplaced mining project in an area that the public has already agreed should be protected for generations to come," Lamfrom said. "It makes no sense to turn our backs on those promises." Explore further Fluorescence probe shows the distribution of active lithium species on lithium metal anodes 2019 Los Angeles Times Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Morocco is to launch in the course of this year an international borrowing of 1 billion, to be followed by another one of the same amount in 2020. This loan is provided for in the 2019 Finance Law. A roadshow will be conducted in the coming weeks to mobilize investors for both operations, reported Media24 news website, quoting a reliable source. The advisory banks and the borrowing currency have already been chosen, the media said. The exact technical characteristics of this borrowing and its launch timing depend on market conditions and investors appetite, said an authorized source earlier this year. This loan will establish a new benchmark for Moroccos signing on the international financial market after an absence of more than four years, strengthen the stock of foreign assets and renew contact with international investors to present to them the latest sectoral and structural reforms initiated by the country. The transaction will not affect the level of liquidity in the local market and take advantage of the funding cost gap that the international market offers. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images Late last month, a few hours into Joe Bidens first official day as a 2020 presidential candidate, Bernie Sanderss supporters received an email with the former vice-presidents name in the subject line. Its a big day in the Democratic primary and were hoping to end it strong. Not with a fundraiser in the home of a corporate lobbyist, but with an overwhelming number of individual donations in response to todays news. Contribute before midnight, the note signed by Sanderss campaign manager, Faiz Shakir, and not so subtly digging at Bidens day-one activities asked. It would mean A LOT to our campaign. The next day, Sanderss team sent another note to his backers, updating them on their rivals progress. Joe Biden released his first day fundraising numbers, Shakir wrote. The good news: we have a lot more individual donations than him on day one. A lot. The bad news: when their campaign got done counting the checks from a $700,000 fundraiser hosted at the home of a telecommunications lobbyist, he out-raised us by just a little bit. The relative calm of the Democratic primarys opening four months was over: Sanders was laying out the first publicly stated fault lines between top-tier contenders. Thats because in order to succeed in 2020, he thinks, he needs the fight. Its long been obvious to Sanderss political advisers and allies that he does best with voters when he has an obvious Establishment foil to both rile him up and sharpen his crusader-for-a-political-revolution pitch, in the form of a were under attack message. Hes a change candidate his core message is he wants to take on the political Establishment and the economic Establishment. He wants to change the political and economic status quo, explained one senior Democrat close to him. So any time he has an opportunity to critique either the political or economic status quo, its like, There you go! [because] the fuel driving his candidacy is voters who are unhappy with the status quo. So hes going to lean into any opportunity to pick that fight. Theres no better evidence for this than 2016, when he weaponized his disagreements with Hillary Clinton and the Democratic National Committee to great effect. But now, facing a bigger, more progressive field, Sanderss path to actual victory is both more within reach by his own teams estimation, he needs to win something close to 30 percent of voters in the early states and vastly more complicated hes short of that mark now, and no longer has just a single, obvious rival with whom he can easily build a one-on-one contrast. In the pre-Biden stage of the race, Sanderss camp took advantage of squabbles with a trio of supposedly powerful antagonists to solidify support among his most loyal followers and try to grow their ranks, rallying them against the liberal Center for American Progress think tank, party donors organizing against him, and Fox News. Theres a Hes not a wilting violet theory to all this, Shakir told me after Sanderss appearance on a Fox News town hall but before Biden got into the race. Last time, [Sanders] felt he took some shots. And this time around, hes going to fight early and fight back. Now, though, Sanders is no longer alone at the front of the field, supplanted by the former vice-president the presumptive Establishment pick, and the candidate who has worried Sanders most since he first started seriously thinking about 2020, back in January 2018 who has not just seen a polling bump but a jolt in the attention primary, too: The week Biden announced his candidacy, he replaced Sanders as the most-mentioned candidate on cable television, according to FiveThirtyEights analyses. So Sanderss imperative has become to draw as stark a contrast as possible with the man who appears to have no interest in fighting back and turning 2020 into a Bernie-versus-the-world 2016 redux. (They talk about division in the Democratic Party, Biden joked in Iowa last Tuesday, but we agree on basically everything all 400 of us.) This is a space where Sanders is supremely comfortable, and if his calculations are right, it should lay a groundwork for his climb toward the magic 30 percent mark. One of the biggest dangers for Bernie going into this cycle was he would become the de facto front-runner, and the de facto institutional candidate. And I think with Bidens candidacy and some other factors, he may legitimately be in a position to run as an outsider again, but with all the advantages of a front-runner, said Robby Mook, who managed Clintons campaign in 2016. Thats a pretty good deal. But if Sanderss expectation is off the mark, and his numbers keep slipping, it may because Democratic primary voters beyond his core supporters are eager for something other than a litigation of these contrasts, in an election theyre desperate to win. Sanderss campaign treated his appearance on a Fox News town hall in Pennsylvania last month as a test case for using his battles to grow his coalition. During the event, he repeatedly pointed out the irony of appearing on Fox News, which has largely been hostile to him, when most other Democrats wouldnt. His advisers were wagering that the contentious event pitting Sanders against the corporate media would generate gangbusters ratings. It was a good bet: Sanderss appearance was the highest-rated candidate town hall yet. That hour of programming wasnt just about projecting his ideas to a wider audience than usual, though: Sanderss team has been conscious of using his fights his big moments in the national spotlight to prove he is electable in a general election, which they regard as a major obstacle in the primary. They had a feeling Donald Trump himself would be watching Fox News that night, according to a Sanders adviser, and the president indeed tweeted about the event when it was done, thereby granting Sanderss wish of setting up a direct Trump-versus-Bernie matchup in voters minds. (Within days, Sanderss campaign sought to hammer this particular message home: Its pollster circulated internal polling numbers showing his candidate topping the president in a hypothetical general election contest in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.) Still, that performance was a welcome break for Sanders from a public disagreement whose resolution was less obviously an immediate boon for his candidacy. After ThinkProgress, which is affiliated with the Center for American Progress a prominent Democratic think tank with close ties to the Clintons, including through its founder John Podesta and president Neera Tanden published a video critical of Sanders, the senator instructed his staff to send CAP a letter asking it to back off, and before long, the campaign was raising money off the disagreement it called the group the epitome of the political Establishment. But a fight with even an influential D.C. think tank was hardly the clear-cut galvanizer some in Sanderss camp expected, especially given the complex history between the two sides Shakir once worked at CAP, and Sanders himself spoke at one of its conferences last year. Within a few days, two of Sanderss closest aides senior adviser Jeff Weaver and Ari Rabin-Havt, the campaign chief of staff secretly met with CAP leadership to cool tensions, multiple Democrats briefed on the meeting confirmed to New York. (At this point, we fully believe that CAP is fully committed, as a priority, to defeating Donald Trump, and we are fully united in this goal, Rabin-Havt told me a few days later.) This was just as well. There was, by then, another easy contrast to draw, courtesy of a New York Times headline Stop Sanders Democrats Are Agonizing Over His Momentum that the campaign clipped and circulated in yet another email: I am writing to ask for your help countering a serious threat to our campaign, it wrote, playing into Sanderss wheelhouse an opportunity to rail against Establishment donors organizing in secret against him. The last two weeks summarize everything that is Bernie, one of his aides told me at the time. He was only eight points behind Biden in Morning Consults national tracking poll. But just few weeks later, that gap is now 21 points. In New Hampshire, the state he won easily and needs to propel him to victory this time, he is now eight points behind Biden, and tied with Pete Buttigieg, if a recent Suffolk/Boston Globe survey is to be believed. That leaves him at 12 percent of support far below the 30 or so his team thinks he needs. Not that Sanders is recalculating. Last Monday, Biden debuted on the campaign trail, rallying union workers in Pittsburgh. And there, on CNN that night, was Sanders. I helped lead the fight against NAFTA, he voted for NAFTA. I helped lead the fight against PNTR with China, he voted for it, the senator told Anderson Cooper. I strongly opposed the Trans-Pacific Partnership, he supported it. I voted against the war in Iraq, he voted for it. Its core to what we do, its part of the brand, Shakir told me. Its wrong to take away that hes searching for these types of fights, he explained of his boss. But its true that even when things start to change, he very much sees an array of people who are stacked against him, very clearly. Merck Announces Results from Phase 2 Trial of Investigational 15-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (V114) in Infants Details Category: Vaccines Published on Wednesday, 08 May 2019 22:32 Hits: 1158 V114 Met Primary Endpoint by Demonstrating Noninferiority to PCV13 for all Shared Serotypes, and an Immune Response for Two Additional Serotypes Data Support Continued Progression of Phase 3 Studies with V114 KENILWORTH, NJ, USA I May 08, 2019 I Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced results from a Phase 2 trial (NCT02982972 ) evaluating the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of V114, the companys investigational 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, as compared to the currently available 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) in healthy infants 6-12 weeks of age. In the study, designated V114-008, V114 met its primary endpoint by demonstrating noninferiority for the 13 serotypes contained in both vaccines. V114 also induced an immune response in infants for two additional disease-causing serotypes, 22F and 33F, which are not contained in PCV13. In January 2019, V114 received a Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) caused by the vaccine serotypes in pediatric patients 6 weeks to 18 years of age. The FDAs decision was informed in part by immunogenicity data from this Phase 2 study, V114-008, and the Phase 1/2 V114-005 study in healthy adults and infants. Results of the V114-008 study were presented during an oral session at the 37th Annual Meeting of the European Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases (ESPID) in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and reinforce continued progression of Phase 3 clinical studies with V114. Children under the age of two are at increased risk for pneumococcal infection, which in some cases may lead to serious illnesses like pneumococcal pneumonia, said Dr. David Greenberg, study investigator and physician in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Unit of Soroka University Medical Center in Beer-Sheva, Israel. These Phase 2 data evaluating V114 in infants are encouraging and mark important progress to helping expand protection against pneumococcal disease for this vulnerable patient population. V114-008, a double-blind, randomized, Phase 2 trial, compared the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of two different clinical lots of V114 (n=350 for lot 1; n=347 for lot 2) to PCV13 (n=347) in approximately 1,050 healthy infants at two, four, six and 12-15 months of age. In the study, the percentage of subjects who achieved the WHO-accepted threshold of immune response (IgG0.35 mcg/mL) with either lot of V114 was noninferior to the percentage seen with PCV13 for the 13 serotypes shared between the two vaccines. For serotype 3, the percentage of subjects who achieved this threshold of immune response was higher for V114 (96.0% for lot 1; 94.1% for lot 2) compared with PCV13 (71.8%). For the two serotypes not included in PCV13, serotype 22F and serotype 33F, the percentage of subjects who achieved the defined threshold of immune response with V114 was above 98% (98.9% for lot 1; 98.5% for lot 2) and above 87% (87.7% for lot 1; 90.1% for lot 2), respectively. Results were consistent between the two lots of V114 studied. Safety profiles were evaluated after each dose and throughout the study. In the study, the adverse event profile for V114, including the number of serious adverse events (AEs), was found to be comparable to PCV13. The percentage of subjects who reported clinical AEs and serious AEs was similar in all treatment arms. The most commonly reported adverse events were injection site reactions, the majority of which were mild to moderate in severity and of short duration. These new data for our investigational pneumococcal disease vaccine V114 build on Mercks century-long heritage in vaccines and our commitment to improving global health through protection from infectious diseases, said Dr. Nicholas Kartsonis, senior vice president and head of vaccine and infectious diseases clinical research at Merck Research Laboratories. We are deeply committed to advancing compounds such as V114 that have the potential to make a meaningful impact on the burden of pneumococcal disease. Merck has a broad clinical development program for V114 currently comprised of 11 Phase 3 clinical trials. These studies are investigating V114 in adults (NCT03480763, NCT03615482), in the pediatric population (NCT03692871, NCT03620162, NCT03885934, NCT03893448), and in immunocompromised persons and those at increased risk for invasive pneumococcal disease (NCT03547167, NCT03921424, NCT03731182, NCT03480802, NCT03565900). Additional Detail About V114-008 Study Design In the V114-008 study, immunogenicity results were described as the percentage of subjects who reached an internationally accepted threshold of immune response considered to be protective (IgG0.35 mcg/mL). The primary immunogenicity endpoint was to demonstrate that V114 was noninferior to PCV13 based on the proportion of infants achieving serotype-specific IgG0.35 mcg/mL for all 13 serotypes in common with PCV13 at one-month following the completion of the three dose primary series. Additionally, serotype-specific IgG geometric mean concentrations (GMCs) were measured at one month following the completion of the primary series, immediately prior to the toddler dose and one month after the toddler dose. About V114 V114 is Mercks investigational 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in Phase 3 development for the prevention of pneumococcal disease in adults and children. V114 consists of pneumococcal polysaccharides from 15 serotypes conjugated to a CRM197 carrier protein, and includes serotypes 22F and 33F, which are commonly associated with IPD worldwide. About Pneumococcal Disease Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. Pneumococcal disease includes non-invasive illnesses such as pneumonia (when it is confined to the lungs), sinusitis, and otitis media (middle ear infection); and invasive illnesses such as bacteremia (infection in the bloodstream), bacteremic pneumonia (pneumonia with bacteremia), and meningitis. While healthy adults and children are at risk for pneumococcal disease, patient populations particularly vulnerable to infection include children under the age of 2, adults aged 65 and older, and people with immunosuppressive or chronic health conditions. Mercks Commitment to Infectious Diseases For more than 100 years, Merck has contributed to the discovery and development of novel medicines and vaccines to combat infectious diseases. In addition to a combined portfolio of vaccines and antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal medicines, Merck has multiple programs that span discovery through late-stage development. To learn more about Mercks infectious diseases pipeline, visit www.merck.com. About Merck For more than a century, Merck, a leading global biopharmaceutical company known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, has been inventing for life, bringing forward medicines and vaccines for many of the worlds most challenging diseases. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to health care through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships. Today, Merck continues to be at the forefront of research to advance the prevention and treatment of diseases that threaten people and communities around the world - including cancer, cardio-metabolic diseases, emerging animal diseases, Alzheimers disease and infectious diseases including HIV and Ebola. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. SOURCE: Merck Coming out of the restaurant we nearly collided with hima compact, bearded man in a wheelchair, oxygen delivered to his nose from the tank tucked beside him. His scraggly gray-black beard rested against his chest; the liveliest part of his face was the bright blue of his eyes. When I apologized for almost bumping into him, saying Id get out of his way, he demurred, answering in a voice barely audible, Take your time. Youre not in my way and Ive got nothing but time. When I, my millennial grandson beside me, hesitated, he looked up at us and said, All those years ago when I was a Green Beret in Vietnam I never dreamed Id end up like this. I answered with some platitude about being glad he was here and thanked him for his service to the country. He said he appreciated that and wheeled himself away. As we walked to the car my grandson admitted confusion about the Green Beret reference and his ignorance regarding the Vietnam war. This, despite his education at a highly regarded private school and distinguished university. I was disappointed but not surprised by his comment. Not only his generation, but many other Americans didnt know about or had forgotten the tragic, costly war that divided our country and brought so much grief. After the encounter with the disabled veteran, I tried to describe the anti-war demonstrations, the riots, the political chaos, the loss of so many young lives and the wounding and maiming of so many others. Like his friends, my grandson listens to song lyrics and writes his own so I told him about a poem I used to teach my high school students. Written by Wilfred Owen and called The Parable of the Old Man and the Young, it uses the biblical story of Abraham nearly sacrificing his son to demonstrate his faith to refer to an earlier war fought in the trenches of Europe. In Owens poem, the Ram of Pride is rejected and, instead, the old man slew his son/And half the seed of Europe one by one. The poem is a stark reminder that old men start wars but young people die in them. My grandsons face was grim as he listened to descriptions of the anti-war protests in the 1960s; the riots in Chicago at the 1968 Democratic convention; and the gruesome military abuses in the My Lai massacre. Although we live in a world sadly accustomed to violence and mass shootings, he was shocked at the killing of the students on the Kent State campus in 1970 and sympathetic to the nation-wide university protests that followed. The student strikes and university sit-ins were responses he could relate to. What was harder for him to understand was the way Vietnam veterans were treated when they returned home after the withdrawal of our troops and the Paris Peace Accords of 1973. Instead of being thanked for their sacrifices and honored for service to their country, they were often treated with silence and neglect by civilians feeling sad and guilty about a war they opposed or ignored. A historian, Shelby Stanton, wrote, An entire American army was sacrificed on the battlefield of Vietnam. We Americans are living through another time of ugly divisiveness, still mired in a war fought in the deserts and mountains of Afghanistan, a country so alien and strange to us we know it only through images on our screens. The tragedy that was the Vietnam war is barely a blip in our memories. What do you suppose the millennial generation will tell their grandchildren? Will their poets lament the loss of more young people to inexplicable wars? Or will they write lyrics of joy celebrating diminished violence and untimely death while, all over the world, people welcome peace? August 17, 1966 April 30, 2019 VINE GROVE, Ky. Roy Edward Collins, 52, formerly of Warrensburg, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, April 30, 2019. Born Aug. 17, 1966, he was the son of the late Steve and Roberta (Vandette) Collins. Following his graduation from Warrensburg Central School, Roy enlisted in the United States Army, faithfully serving his country as a career military man until his retirement and honorable discharge in 2013. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Elise, Susan and Maxine. He is survived by his beloved wife of 19 years, Theresa Collins; a son, Steven Collins of Glens Falls; sisters, Earlene (Ross) Sutphin, Shirley (Gary) Ross and Sandra (Philip) Irwin, all of Warrensburg, Bonnie (Alex) Rata of Ausable and Ethel (Mark) Bybee of California; as well as several nieces and nephews. The most painful goodbyes are the ones that are never said. Funeral services with full military honors were conducted in Kentucky on May 4. Friends may call on Roy's family from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 10, at the Alexander Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg. A memorial service to celebrate his life will immediately follow the visitation at 3:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guest book, condolences and directions. May 23, 1975 May 4, 2019 QUEENSBURY Tanya L. Sipowicz, 43, of Queensbury, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, May 4, 2019 and went into the arms of the Lord. Born on May 23, 1975 in Glens Falls, she was the daughter of Mary Jo Nemeyer and Michael Sipowicz. She joins her mother, Mary Jo, and her twin baby sisters, Brittany and Bethany, in Heaven. Tanya was also predeceased by her paternal grandmother, Susan Gilbert Sipowicz; and maternal grandparents, William and Mary Nemeyer. A graduate of Queensbury High School, class of 1994, Tanya went on to pursue a bachelors degree in English education at SUNY Potsdam. Tanya excelled in her program, met lifelong friends and attained her masters degree in special education at SUNY Albany. She was a teacher for many years in Norwich and Dover, Delaware, working with students who needed her special attention and dedication. Tanya was a roller coaster enthusiast and a fan of Jimmy Buffett. She was very happy at family gatherings, where all the nieces and nephews would play, Jimmy would be on the radio and Harvest pizza would be served. Ever the optimist in life, Tanyas wonderfully resilient attitude always inspired her friends and family. Spending time up north with her nieces was often where you would find Tanya. Writing poetry, playing board games and making candles were a few of Aunt Tanyas hobbies that she was able to share with her girls. Tanya was always up for a road trip and she so much enjoyed recalling and telling stories of the past, producing many smiles and lots of laughter. Godmother to Caroline, she got so much joy from doting on her nieces and nephews. In 2015, Tanya met her to-be fiance and they instantly shared their devotion to the church and their love of all things Jimmy Buffett. The two went on to travel and enjoy several years of laughter and adventure. Curtis will forever love and miss her. She is survived by and shared great love with partner, Curtis Leitem; her father, Michael E. Sipowicz; her grandfather, Edmund Sipowicz; her siblings, Bridget Cromie (Kevin) of Massena, Vincent Sipowicz (Nancy) of Washington, D.C. and Michael Sipowicz (Janelle) of Saratoga Springs; and several aunts, uncles and cousins; and many beloved friends and family from the many places she taught and learned. Her true passion in life was being with her nephews and nieces, Caroline, Sabella and Ainsley Cromie; Augustus and Jack Sipowicz; and William and Robert Sipowicz. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Tanyas honor to the Literacy Volunteers of Glens Falls. Tanya was a lifelong learner, believed in education and always looked out for the underdog. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 10, at St. Marys Church, 62 Warren St., Glens Falls. Burial will be private for the family. Family and friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 9, at the Singleton Sullivan Potter Funeral Home, 407 Bay Road, Queensbury. For those who wish, online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sbfuneralhome.com. SARANAC LAKE The State University of New York Board of Trustees approved the appointment of Joseph Keegan as the new president of North Country Community College on Wednesday. I thank you for the opportunity, Keegan said in a livestream from the SUNY Board of Trustees meeting in Albany on Wednesday. I thank you for the privilege to serve the college that I love and care deeply about. Keegan is currently North Countrys vice president for academic affairs. His appointment as president takes effect June 16. We are entering our 51st year, Keegan said. While it may be one of the smaller gemstones in the crown of SUNY, what we lack in size we make up in quality and in impact. The NCCC Board of Trustees chose him from a pool of three candidates that also included Sara Thompson Tweedy, vice president of student access involvement at Westchester Community College in Valhalla, and Ron Cantor, special adviser to the Maine Community College System. Keegan is also a graduate of NCCC, earning an associates degree in liberal arts in 1989. Our communities have been and continue to be incredible partners and are an important part of our strength, Keegan said. With all those elements in place, one can imagine all the places we can go. I look forward to joining with all of you to lead North Country into the next 50 years. Keegan will be the colleges seventh president since its founding in 1967. He replaces Steve Tyrell, who has led the college since 2012. During a round of interviews with the community in March, Keegan said hed push the college to keep doing what its doing addressing needs. An example of this he gave was an emergency medical technician degree program NCCC provided after EMTs from the its sponsor counties, Franklin and Essex, alerted the college of a personnel shortage. Additionally, he pointed to the colleges push to attract nontraditional students through online classes as a viable way to serve the community and boost enrollment. Joseph Keegan is a true SUNY-grown leader, having attended North Country Community College, SUNY Potsdam and the University at Albany throughout his academic career, SUNY Chancellor Kristina Johnson said. His educational background, coupled with his deep commitment to the North Country community, makes him an ideal choice to serve the mission and vision of the campus. Keegan has held his current job since 2014. Prior to that, he was employed in administrative positions of increasing responsibility, including as the coordinator of human services programs and as the grant liaison for the Perkins CTE Grant and the Tri-Lakes Prevention Coalition. In addition, Keegan has served as an instructor at NCCC in various titles since 1994, most recently as an associate professor. At North Country Community College, Joseph Keegan has been a student, faculty member and a key member of the staff, and today he will add president to his list of connections to the campus and to SUNY, said SUNY Chairman H. Carl McCall. He is dedicated in his service to the campus and to public higher education on the whole. Keegan is also recognized as a credentialed alcoholism and substance abuse counselor by the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, and has leveraged this training and background to inform his work as the coordinator of the Human Services programs at NCCC. He served on a team that developed NCCCs AAS program in chemical dependency counseling, helping train local students to bring meaningful supports and interventions to individuals and families suffering from addiction. Keegan earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in anthropology from SUNY Potsdam and a Master of Arts in anthropology from University at Albany. He is a longtime resident of Vermontville, where he lives with his wife Lisa and their five dogs. They have two daughters, both college graduates. North Country Community College has campuses in Malone, Saranac Lake and Ticonderoga. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 QUEENSBURY Megan Quinn said a life-threatening illness led to her career as a nurse. In college, she got very sick and ended up in Albany Medical Center and later Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. I have some sort of autoimmune issue. All of my organs just shut down, she said. The care she received made her switch her major from environmental science to nursing. After working as an obstetrics nurse, she has spent the last year with Finch Paper, which has an urgent care clinic to treat employee injuries, runs wellness programs and provides training. At at glance Recipients of The Post-Star's inaugural Nurses: The Heart of Health Care awards: Brandi Carpenter, Fort Hudson Health System Lisa Clark, Washington Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare Beth Hogan, Northern GI Endoscopy Center Jeniene Morgan, Finch Paper Megan Quinn, Finch Paper Patricia Ross, Fort Hudson Health System Holly Vaughn, Fort Hudson Health System Laura Villalobos-Abare, Warren Center Vickie Yattaw, Glens Falls Hospital Gary Miller, Ellis Hospital (peoples choice recipient) Quinn, who lives in South Glens Falls, loves her job. These people are not just my patients. Theyre my co-workers. I see them every day. You can help them in more aspects (of care). You get to know them, she said. Quinn was one of 10 nurses recognized by The Post-Star at the newspapers inaugural awards breakfast called Nurses: The Heart of Health Care, which was held Wednesday morning at Six Flags Great Escape Lodge in Queensbury. The event coincided with National Nurses Week. Many of the nurses have some personal reason why they got into the profession, either an illness themselves or a close family member. They really decided at that time at a very young age this is the profession they wanted to do giving back to the community, giving back to their family, giving back to their friends, said Post-Star Interim Publisher/Controller Brian Corcoran. A total of 90 nominations were received for 75 nurses. They were judged by Corcoran and Elizabeth Parsons, director of human resources for Fort Hudson Health System of Fort Edward, and Vanessa Ricciardone, former chief executive officer of Parks Heritage Federal Credit Union. Nine were selected, and a 10th recipient was chosen by Post-Star readers. Hartford resident Vickie Yattaw said she was drawn into nursing at a young age after her aunt was diagnosed with liver cancer. She was able to help her family through that process and believed that is what she needed to specialize in. Now she is the oncology education and support services manager at the Charles R. Wood Cancer Center at Glens Falls Hospital. Our job is to make sure everyone is on the same page and the patient has everything to get through their treatment, she said. In addition to medical training, the job requires people skills to help patients navigate this difficult time in their lives. Make sure the patients emotional needs are met as well as physical needs, she said. Having good people skills was also cited by Holly Vaughn, director of nursing at Fort Hudson Health System. Other than your clinical skills, you have to be a nice person at heart and have a good sense of humor, he said. Empathy is also a key quality, she added. Vaughn said she also was attracted to the vocation after a health crisis undergoing lung surgery at age 19. Her mother suggested she get into the vocation, and Vaughn said she loves interacting with the seniors. I enjoy talking to the residents and laughing with them and having fun, she said. Other recipients were: Brandi Carpenter of Fort Hudson Health System; Lisa Clark, director of nursing/geriatrics and rehabilitation at Washington Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare; Beth Hogan, clinical director at Northern GI Endoscopy Center; Jeniene Morgan, nurse at Finch Paper; Patricia Ross, supervisor at Fort Hudson Health System; and Laura Villalobos-Abare, the charge nurse at the Warren Center in Queensbury. Gary Miller, a nurse with Ellis Hospitals Clifton Park Medical Center, was selected as the peoples choice recipient. Villalobos-Abare said she has always wanted to help those in need. As a child, she used to bring home children that looked dirty or lost. She loves working with her residents. I call them my family. Walking in the building every morning and seeing my family, putting a smile on their faces like they do mine, she said. Villalobos-Abare considers herself lucky. I say Im rich in life because I can wake up every morning and go to my dream job, she said. Michael Goot covers politics, business, the city of Glens Falls and the town and village of Lake George. Reach him at 518-742-3320 or mgoot@poststar.com and follow his blog at http://poststar.com/blogs/michael_goot/. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. 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 Unclean coal. Photo: Scott Olson/Getty Images The Democratic Partys 2020 hopefuls have collectively endorsed several ideas that do not poll well. Kamala Harris has called for the elimination of all private health insurance. Bernie Sanders has vowed to enfranchise the incarcerated, and Elizabeth Warren has demanded Donald Trumps impeachment. And whenever Democratic candidates adopt such controversial stances, conservative media dutifully demagogues the underlying issue, while mainstream outlets ask whether Team Blue can survive its latest affront to the median voter. Similar questions rarely get asked when Trump implements wildly unpopular environmental policies. Since taking office, the president has (among other things) restored Dow Chemicals freedom to sell an insecticide that scientists say causes neural damage in small children, defended the liberty of Texas coal plants to spew deadly amounts of sulfur dioxide into the skies above the Houston suburbs, and fought for the God-given right of coal plants to dump mining waste in streams. These positions might strike some readers as sensible, but the available evidence suggests that most voters actually oppose making it easier for corporations to poison their children. Last year, Gallup found that 62 percent of Americans believe the government is doing too little to protect the environment the highest that figure has been in more than a decade. Meanwhile, some 57 percent of voters told the pollster that environmental protection should take priority over economic growth. Thus its not terribly surprising that, as of March of this year, 59 percent of voters told Gallup that Trump was doing a poor job of protecting the nations environment. Nevertheless, the presidents decision to put the profit margins of his partys campaign donors above the health and safety of American children has inspired relatively few columns about the GOPs electorally reckless pandering to its base, even as Sanderss advocacy for universal health care has attracted dozens of declarations about the Democrats disarray. But dont blame the pundits. The fact is, the Democratic Party itself has made little effort to call attention to Trumps record on air and water pollution. In recent months, Democrats have (finally) begun to treat the impending climate catastrophe as a topic worthy of conversation. But if climate change is our most pressing environmental challenge, it isnt our only one. And it probably isnt the Democratic Partys strongest environmental issue from an electoral perspective. For many Americans, the threat posed by climate change remains abstract, and any comprehensive solution to the problem will require a degree of shared sacrifice (some popular forms of carbon-intensive consumption will need to be discouraged). The threat posed by Trumps loosening of clean air and water protections, by contrast, is concrete and visceral and the costs of combating that threat will fall almost exclusively on corporations the public neither admires nor trusts. Theres a reason why the president pretends to care about clean air and water even as he ridicules climate change as a Chinese hoax. Swing voters in the U.S. are not centrists. In most cases, they are individuals whose various social identities and policy intuitions pull them in conflicting directions. For example, there are a significant number of white voters in the Midwest whose historic ties to the labor movement and sympathy for left-of-center economic policy draw them toward the Democrats while their racial identities and concerns about demographic change pull them toward the GOP. Thus the way to win over swing voters is not to triangulate on every issue but rather to increase the salience of those issues (and social identities) that attract such voters to your party. Democrats already know this. Last year, the party instructed its candidates to focus relentlessly on health care because a large majority of voters trust Democrats more than Republicans on that issue and therefore, the larger health care loomed in the minds of swing voters, the more likely they would be to break Team Blues way. But health care isnt the Democratic Partys strongest issue. Last month, Morning Consult found that 45 percent of voters trust congressional Democrats more than congressional Republicans on health-care issues, while 35 percent said the opposite; on the environment, those figures were 50 percent and 27 percent, respectively. And that poll was no outlier. In August 2018, an NBC News/Wall Street Journal survey found that Democrats had an 18-point advantage on health care and a 38-point one on the environment. In June 2017, Gallup found that voters preferred the Democrats on health care by a margin of 55 to 36 percent; on the environment including global warming that margin was 63 to 29. It would be in the Democratic Partys interest to increase the salience of environmental issues even if Trump hadnt spent the past two years letting Big Coal and Dow Chemical run the EPA. But the Trump administration has, in fact, done its best to write the Democrats attack ads for them. Consider the plight of Thompsons, Texas. Every year in this suburb of Houston, the W.A. Parish coal-fired power plant pumps more than 30,000 tons of sulfur dioxide into the air. Once out of the smokestacks, that chemical breaks down into tiny sulfate particles that often find their way into human lungs and bloodstreams, where they can cause aggravated asthma, heart disease, and a variety of other ailments. According to one recent study, the Parish plants pollution condemns an estimated 180 Americans to premature death each year. The Obama administration passed a rule that would have required the Parish plant (among others) to install scrubbers that reduce sulfur-dioxide discharge. If Parish had adopted this measure, annual deaths from its pollution would have fallen by 120, according to the aforementioned study. But the scrubbers would have cost the plants parent company hundreds of millions of dollars to install, so the Trump administration repealed the rule. An NYU professor of environmental medicine, George D. Thurston, tried to change then-EPA administrator Scott Pruitts mind. The New York Times recounts his failure: Dr. Thurston produced his own study that examined the health benefits of the Obama plan in greater detail. Lowering emissions at nine Texas power plants targeted by the Obama-era E.P.A., including Parish, would mean 1,300 fewer cases a year of acute bronchitis, as well as about 100,000 fewer lost workdays from related illnesses and 125 fewer admissions a year to area hospitals for heart conditions, he concluded. Hoping to drive home the point to Mr. Pruitt, the former E.P.A. head, who is from Oklahoma, Dr. Thurston prepared a summary showing how the Obama policies would also benefit Oklahoma residents, given that air pollution from Texas often blows in that direction. The bottom line: Hundreds fewer Oklahomans would die prematurely each year, according to a chart that Dr. Thurston passed to Mr. Pruitt during a June 2017 meeting Mr. Pruitts response, Dr. Thurston said, was blunt. This is a visibility rule, Mr. Pruitt said. Therefore the health impacts are irrelevant. There are plenty of other stories just like this one and plenty of suffering, sympathetic families who would relish the opportunity to call attention to the terrible impact environmental deregulation has had on their communities. By telling their stories, Democrats could simultaneously increase the salience of their partys most favorable issue, reinforce the publics preexisting suspicion that Republicans are too friendly with big business, and signal their solidarity with communities in rural America, where air and water pollution is often concentrated. They could also build up (the already exceptionally high) public support for lifesaving environmental policies like heightened enforcement of the Clean Air Act. There are issues that divide the Democratic coalition. There are ideas on which the general public agrees with liberals when theyre framed in one way but not in another. And there are things voters agree with Democrats on but still trust Republicans more to properly handle. But air and water pollution is not one of those issues. White college-educated professionals in Panera Land do not want corporations poisoning their children. Neither do blue-collar Obama-to-Trump voters in the Midwest, or black middle-class voters in Atlanta, or millennials in Madison, Wisconsin, or the odd prairie populist in rural Iowa. In 2020, Democrats should offer voters a chance to breathe easy by making Republicans choke on the noxious compromises theyve made with corporate power. It's amazing that something as grassroots as rolls, plants and a desire to make a difference, finds a way to raise over $100,000. Kennel says she has a grandson with diabetes and lost a niece to the dreaded disease at age 28. She understands the numbers. Over 422 million people worldwide are dealing with some form of diabetes, up from 108 million in 1980. It is a major cause of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, and lower limb amputation. While lauding anyone who gives time or money to a cause, Kennel said she wanted to do more than write a check. "We want to assist in research to someday find a cure for Type 1 diabetes,'' Kennel said in an email response. "We have been blessed with amazing support from the community for this fundraiser and from businesses and individuals who make donations to JDRF on behalf of the fundraiser.'' This week, Kennel will make the trek to Kalona, Iowa, to purchase about 350 plant baskets, then return Friday to purchase the sweet rolls from an Amish-style bakery to ready them for Saturday consumption. Saturday, rain or shine, she will renew friendships and make a pitch on behalf of those in need. A man initially accused of child pornography in Rock Island County now faces federal charges. Stephen Elliott Psinas III, 44, East Moline, was indicted April 17 by a federal grand jury on counts of sexual exploitation of children and distribution of child pornography, according to documents filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois. He is accused of encouraging two minors to engage in sexually explicit conduct so visual depictions could be produced, court documents state. For the first victim, Psinas' alleged criminal conduct happened between July 2017 and July 2018. For the second victim, the activity is alleged to have occurred between January and November 2018. The child pornography charge is related to the accusation that Psinas distributed an illegal image of a child on July 15, 2018, federal court records state. Psinas is scheduled to appear in federal court June 19, according to federal court records. The Milan Optimist will host a youth safety day from 9 to 11:30 a.m. May 11, with bicycle course set up at Blackhawk Fire station, Milan, and parking at University of Illinois Extension, 321 West 2nd Ave., Milan. There will be tips on fire safety, youth activities by Illinois Extension and bicycle safety by Milan Optimist. There will be free hot dogs, chips and drinks for all. All participants on the bicycle course will get a free helmet. There will also be a drawing to give away six bicycles. Bring your bike and try the course or borrow one of the bikes that will be on hand for those unable to bring a bike. Pictured, from left, are Brian Sambdman, Tom Brown, Joann Foster, Betty Just and Dan Stanford. WHAT WE KNOW: At the Silvis City Council's April 16 committee of the whole meeting, several ordinances regarding the Twin Oaks tax-increment-financing district were approved to be advanced, as well as ordinances on a commercial facade and building repair program, a residential redevelopment program, and a home buyers' incentive program for the Village at Deer meadows subdivision. WHAT'S NEW: All of those ordinances were unanimously approved at Tuesdays regular council meeting. In other business, at Tuesdays committee of the whole meeting, the council approved sending to the May 21 regular council meeting the recommendation to hire a new police officer and buy body and dash cameras and rifles for the police department. Police officers pay for their own weapons; the city will buy the rifles, and officers will pay for the weapons via payroll deduction. Two more ordinances for the Twin Oaks TIF district were sent to the next regular meeting. One will redraw boundaries, and the other will authorize an agreement with Weber Auto Group to develop an auction site and event space. Democratic presidential candidate John Hickenlooper will campaign in Davenport on Saturday. Hickenlooper will appear for a meet-and-greet at 10 a.m., Saturday, at Baked Beer & Bread Company, 1113 Mound St., Davenport. The event will last about an hour. Hickenlooper served two terms as governor of Colorado, from 2011 to early 2019. He had previously founded the successful Wynkoop Brewing Company and served as mayor of Denver, Colo., from 2003 to 2011. A centrist Democrat who governed a purple state, Hickenlooper gained attention for overseeing the legalization of recreational marijuana. While he was governor, Colorado also grew its population by more than 600,000 people. Davenport will be his second stop on a two-day swing through Iowa this weekend. He will also stop in Newton, on Friday; and Maquoketa, Mt. Vernon, and Cedar Rapids on Saturday. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Today is Wednesday, May 8, the 128th day of 2019. There are 237 days left in the year. 1869 150 years ago: SUBSIDED. The railroad excitement at Moline has subsided, it having been ascertained that the C. R. I. & P. railroad had a perfect right to lay their tracks along the route designated, as is stated. 1894 125 years ago: Miss Fannie Knox, for a number of years operator at the Central telephone exchange, and one of the most popular and competent young ladies ever connected with the service, resigned this morning, the condition of her health necessitating the abandoning of the exacting duties. Miss Birdie Ostrom is promoted to Miss Knox's place. 1919 100 years ago: An improvement to be completed this summer and to add much to the efficiency of the power plant serving the public utilities of the tri-cities is announced by officials of the Tri-City Railway company. Joanie Steil was with her sons, Dylan and Griffin, when their downtown Davenport restaurant Roam flooded in a matter of minutes as the temporary flood wall breached. "When we ran out and got ourselves to safety, the first thing the boys said was, 'what about our staff and employees?'" she said. "They had this dream of a business, and worked hard to bring a group of like-minded people together to work together. And so that was their first worry. I could tell how much it impacted them." A few feet of water remains inside the bar and restaurant, which opened in December. Roam's 25 employees are out of their regular jobs until the restaurant dries out enough owners can start to rebuild. Dylan Steil said they started a GoFundMe page to raise money to supplement their employees' paychecks. They've also been working with other businesses throughout the Quad-Cities to find them temporary work. "People rely on that paycheck and those tips," he said. And now, a group of Davenport businesses is combining their efforts to support the displaced employees. On Saturday, several businesses in the area of London Place in Davenport, 4893 Utica Ridge Road, will host a fundraiser, Floodapalooza. Robert Wilkie. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images During his Senate confirmation hearing, Robert Wilkie, the secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, said he wouldnt privatize the VAs health-care services. Hes since repeated that promise to veterans themselves. The private sector cannot replicate VAs expertise in things like spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, rehabilitative services, prosthetics, audiology, services for the blind, suicide prevention, he told members of the American Legion in 2018. But Wilkie was nominated by President Trump, who has surrounded himself with advocates for the privatization of the VA since taking office. His decision to fire Wilkies predecessor, David Shulkin, an Obama appointee who opposed privatization, may not have had as much to do with Shulkins alleged spending improprieties as it did with months of sustained lobbying against the secretary from allies of Concerned Veterans for America. The Koch-backed advocacy group supports an expansion of private-sector care for veterans and Wilkie, since his confirmation, has deviated little from that goal. On Wilkies watch, the VA has begun to shrink. (The VA reached out following publication to dispute this, stating: Since last quarter, VA achieved a net increase of 3,043 employees and maintained a vacancy rate of approximately 11 percent.) The department, which provides free or low-cost health care to around 9 million enrolled veterans as part of its mission to support former service members, has nearly 49,000 unfilled vacancies. Meanwhile, the Mission Act, which will expand the VAs privatized community-care network for eligible veterans, is scheduled to take effect in June. Now, a nascent contract dispute between the VA and the American Federation of Government Employees may bolster fears that Wilkies reforms are privatization in all but name. On Thursday, the VA submitted a proposal to renegotiate its collective-bargaining agreement with the AFGE, which represents around 250,000 department employees. The departments proposals would drastically reduce the amount of time employees are allowed to spend on union business during the workday, among other changes. In a press release, the VA said it hoped to reduce staffers union time from 1 million hours per year to around 10,000, a change that would, it claimed, direct more than $48 million per year back to aiding veterans. The press release was otherwise light on detail, though in it, Secretary Wilkie described this as a reset of the VAs relationship with the AFGE. With VA facing thousands of vacancies, these proposals could add more than 1 million man-hours per year back into our work force a vital influx of resources that would make an almost immediate difference for veterans and the employees who care for them, Wilkie said. These restrictions on union time would make it difficult, if not quite impossible, for staff to conduct legally permissible union business during work hours. And the VAs plan goes even further. According to a copy of the proposal package provided by the union, the VA wants to eliminate 28 provisions of the departments current collective-bargaining agreement. Union representatives would lose their offices inside VA facilities, and could no longer use VA equipment to carry out their duties. The departments new contract with AFGE would last for ten years, but only the VA could make changes to it during that time; the union would be prohibited from doing the same. The VA seeks to weaken the grievance procedures set out in its previous agreement with AFGE. Communication between the union and the department would have to take place entirely at the national level. Employees who need to file grievances, for example, would no longer be able to do so at the local level. The union believes this could create a bottleneck that would slow the processing of employee grievances. The union also alleges that at least two of the VAs proposals to require the union to pay for the time management spends on union business, and to pay attorneys fees to the VA would violate existing labor law. Contacted for comment, VA press secretary Curt Cashour directed New York to a May 2 editorial published by Wilkie on InsideSources.com. In it, the secretary said that the departments reforms would make sure that the contract does not interfere with the departments ability to take action against poor performers and eliminate language in the previous agreement that has effectively allowed the union to co-manage the VA. Asked specifically about the unions claim that some of the proposals are illegal, Cashour said, When department employees and attorneys at the demand of the union are required to cease providing medical care and support for veteran services, to prepare for and engage in union-demanded activities such as grievances, disciplinary appeals, or arbitration, its only fair for the union to reimburse taxpayers for this time spent not taking care of veterans. David Cann, AFGEs director of field services and education, told New York on Monday that the VAs proposals are unique. He added, What Im seeing out of the VA is the most both-barrels anti-union effort that Ive seen in my time with AFGE. The VAs proposals resemble executive orders that Trump signed last May. One would have significantly reduced the amount of time that federal workers are allowed to spend on union business. AFGE sued the administration and won an injunction in August that blocked certain provisions of the orders from going forward. The Trump administration appealed the injunction, and the case is ongoing. For whatever reason, the VA is acting in contravention of that injunction, and proposing limitations on the rights of members that are exactly the same as what the court has said theyre not allowed to do, Cann said. The VAs proposal package seems to be a clear case of failing to bargain in good faith, which is an unfair labor practice under the relevant statute, Joseph Slater, the Eugene M. Balk professor of law and values at the University of Toledo, told New York in an email. Slater, who has reviewed a summary of the VAs proposals, added that provisions strike me as illegal bargaining proposals on their own, including the provision that would allow only the VA to make changes to the contract once its in place. The ten-year duration is clearly trying to lock in extreme terms for an unusually long time, which is commonly held to be bargaining in bad faith. Eliminating procedures and appropriate arrangements generally seems legally dicey to me too, as those are statutory rights, he continued. I could go on, he concluded, but this is a set of radical, unworkable proposals that no union would agree to. The VA isnt the first federal agency to call for a draconian renegotiation of its collective-bargaining agreement with AFGE. The Social Security Administration has proposed similar changes to its union contract, down to the removal of union representatives from their offices inside SSA buildings. Contract negotiations with AFGE may become not just a backdoor for the Trump administration to get around the injunction, but the locus at which its antipathy to the federal workforce meets its hostility toward unions. The first two years of Trumps presidency have already been difficult for the federal workforce. One of Trumps first actions as president was to implement a temporary federal hiring freeze. Hes overseen two significant government shutdowns, the most recent of which lasted for five weeks and cost federal employees two pay periods. (Though federal workers received back pay after the government reopened, many federal contractors did not.) The VA isnt the only federal agency facing a staffing crisis, either. Though the status of the VAs workforce has a clear, disproportionate effect on veterans, so too does the state of the federal workforce at large. A third of federal employees are veterans. Cann told New York that AFGE believes that figure is even higher for employees of the VA. But the fact that Wilkie is pursuing certain conflict with AFGE, instead of filling his departments vacancies, kindles a fear specific to the VA: that the secretary intends to let the VA atrophy and funnel more and more veterans into private medical care. If we really want to fix the VA so badly, lets start hiring, and fill up some of those 49,000 [staff] vacancies, Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said at a recent town hall co-sponsored by National Nurses United and CommonDefense, a progressive veterans advocacy group. Theres no question that the VA suffers from systemic problems. Twenty-four veterans have died by suicide on VA campuses during the last 18 months, the Military Times reported in April. The departments tech problems are so pronounced that implementation of the Mission Act may prove disastrous. According to ProPublica, a planned tool to help determine which veterans are eligible for private community care is so unreliable that it threatens to disrupt the health care of about 75,000 veterans every day. Nevertheless, a joint study from the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice and the White River Junction VA Medical Center found that VA medical facilities achieve health-care outcomes that are consistently as good as, or even better than, private alternatives in 121 regional markets. In polling, veterans themselves reliably oppose privatization, though theyre less hostile to the notion of some community-based choices as a supplement to the VAs public services. The American Legion, like every other major veterans service organization, opposes privatization of the VA. Alexander McCoy, the political director of Common Defense and a former Marine, told New York that his organization is watching the labor dispute closely. The secretary of Veterans Affairs and Trump are trying to use veterans as props for union-busting, he said. This isnt about improving our health care or fixing problems with the VA. Theyre punishing workers for their own campaign to starve the VA. Kate Hoit, an Army veteran affiliated with VoteVets, a progressive organization that has repeatedly sued the Trump administration for its handling of the VA, agreed. First and foremost, our concerns rest in the fact that the changes in the collective bargaining agreement will make the VA a worse place to work and therefore result in worse care for veterans, Hoit said in a statement to New York. Private-sector unions, too, worry that the VAs contract proposals belie its commitment to privatization. Sara Nelson, who heads the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA and called for a general strike in response to the latest government shutdown, said that its no surprise that the Trump administration would target AFGEs VA members, who have traditionally enjoyed a robust contract. Its all a direct attack on VA workers and their union, Nelson said in a statement to New York. Why? Because they are the ones demanding accountability at the VA, they are the ones blowing the whistle on waste and fraud, they are the ones standing in the way of privatization. Thats the ultimate goal: privatize the VA so the giant health care corporations can reap the billions spent on caring for our veterans, ignoring the fact that veterans overwhelmingly prefer the VA to private healthcare. AFGE will likely need all the support it can get. Slater, the law professor, cautioned that if the union wanted to file an unfair labor practices charge against the VA, it may have difficulty finding relief. Trump took until March of this year to nominate a general counsel to the U.S. Federal Labor Relations Authority, the body responsible for addressing labor grievances against federal agencies. Unions have already criticized Trumps FLRA pick, Catherine Bird. National Treasury Employees Union president Tony Reardon told Bloomberg Law that Bird, who formerly worked in the office of general counsel for the Department of Health and Human Services, was directly involved in the agencys bad faith bargaining last year. Reardon added that his union has filed four grievances against HHS for unfair labor practices. Even if Bird is confirmed, Bloomberg Law said shell have to process an extensive backlog of cases because the office has been vacant for two years. Federal law also prohibits VA employees from going on strike, which further restricts AFGEs options as it navigates contract negotiations. But Cann said that the union is considering other forms of direct action. Getting people involved, doing petitions, doing informational rallies, applying pressure on the agency by pointing out their hypocrisy and their anti-union animus, reaching out to the handful of friends we have on the Hill, we plan on doing all of that, he said, adding, Were counting on employees who care so much about the work they do as caregivers to veterans to be willing to stand up, and get involved in this campaign, and object to having their voices silenced. Disclosure: The authors fiance is a veteran who uses VA health services. This post has been updated to include the VAs response, and additional information about the number of vacancies at the VA. Who Will Write Our History? is one of the most unique approaches to a documentary/live action film Ive ever seen. Its neither a documentary nor a dramatization instead, its a hybrid of both. Its the story of the Oyneg Shabes archives and how Polish Jews recorded occurrences in the Warsaw Ghetto, where the Nazis kept half a million people before the prisoners were shipped off to concentration camps. I dont know how many times my jaw dropped when I saw the actual Nazi propaganda films shot in the ghetto from 1940-42. This is incredibly chilling to see. The film also uses historical photos, interviews with experts who have studied the archives and re-enactments of the events documented in the archive. After World War II the archives were retrieved from milk cans and metal boxes buried under the ruins of the Warsaw Ghetto. Actor Adrien Brody provides the voice-over for Emanuel Ringelblum, a historian who coordinated social services in the ghetto. He brought together 60 attorneys, journalists and other community leaders as an undercover operation to document life in Warsaw and the atrocities committed in the open. A nationally touring exhibit, Remembering Our Fallen, will be displayed in the north lobby of Isle Casino Hotel, 1777 Isle Parkway, Bettendorf, through May 12. Including a state memorial from Iowa, it will remind visitors of the ultimate sacrifice made by those who died from wounds suffered in Iraq and Afghanistan while wearing our countrys uniform, according to a release from Visit Quad Cities. The free exhibit will be open each day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Were extremely proud to host this incredible exhibit at the Isle Casino Hotel, Nancy Ballenger, vice president and general manager of the hotel, said in the release. Our veterans and fallen soldiers have done their duty to defend our freedom. Many have given a lot, while countless others have given all. Its our duty to honor them. The memorial includes 31 Tribute Towers with military and personal photos of over 5,000 of our nations fallen since Sept. 11, 2001. This memorial was unveiled nationally at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 7, 2017. Marilyn McAllister wishes the police would do more. She said no one checked security cameras near Junge Park, police did not pursue David's cell phone records, and police interviewed just a handful of his friends. She knows better than anyone that her son tended to pick up and go as he pleased, and that's why she waited two weeks before reporting him missing. But two years without hearing from him makes no sense, she said. He never would willingly go that long without contacting his family. "We feel for the family. We want answers for the family," Kimball said. "People have nowhere to put their anguish. We sometimes get the brunt of it, and I understand that." The police department's social worker is in routine contact with McAllister, who said she's frustrated by the lack of communication with the investigator assigned to her son's case. She said the officer never has returned her phone calls. David's father, Jeff McAllister, said he supports law enforcement and generally appreciates their efforts. In his son's case, though, he also thinks more could be done. On Jan. 20, 2018, the Ford F-150 was recovered in Whiteside County, Illinois at the scene of another residential burglary where suspects were attempting to take a large gun safe. Police found other homes and barns in Whiteside County also had been broken into. A day later, the GMC Jimmy was recovered in Clinton, after it was involved in a crash with a parked car. A man was seen running from the vehicle after the crash. Blood, cigarette butts, and mail addressed to Tague were found in the vehicle. Evidence collected from the Eldridge home and the stolen SUV was sent to the state crime lab and a DNA profile was developed that matched a DNA sample taken from Tague. The lab also developed a second DNA profile from materials collected from the home, but it has not been matched with anyone. The man accused of the April 25 shooting of Davenport Police Officer Ryan Leabo told police in an interview that he was trying to get the officer to shoot him, according to a statement released Tuesday by the Scott County Attorneys Office. The statement goes on to say that Leabos use of force against Brett Samuel Dennis Sr. 27, was reasonable and justified under the circumstances. It was necessary to resist deadly force and to avoid further injury or death to himself, other officers, and the community, the statement said. The statement was issued after an investigation by the Scott County Sheriffs Department and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. Leabo remains on paid leave. According to the statement, the bullet that struck Leabo in the leg went into his foot, and was still there at the time of the report. Another bullet fired by Dennis struck Leabo in the chest, but his bullet-proof vest stopped the bullet. Dennis told officers after his arrest that he had used methamphetamine at about 2 p.m. that day, and that he knew he was wanted by police. As the region seeks financial aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, local business group Downtown Davenport Partnership says the economic toll of the historic flood that crippled the city last week could be as high as $2.5 million per month. The economic impact estimate, which does not include property damage, is part of an application sent to state and federal officials for assistance. Factors taken into account include sales statistics, lost wages and diminished business activity because of inaccessibility, Downtown Davenport Partnership Director Kyle Carter said. Carter cautioned the number, which adds up to nearly $30 million over the course of a year, is a high-level estimate that is based on an inexact science. FEMA asked for us to look at the bigger picture because theres just no way to know instantaneously what that impact is, said Carter, whose organization is part of the Quad-Cities Chamber of Commerce. Some businesses are already beginning to re-open with diminished services, Carter said, while others could be shuttered for months. The group is also considering lost or impacted business in the West End and East Village neighborhoods. Weve had to spend some significant time explaining the concept, recognizing that the data is true, she said. ... This issue is the one that caused Phase II. This will also, in addition to the new citations, this still must be first and foremost in our minds and in our actions. The round table said they had to figure out how to synthesize data for the board, including looking at which data is the most important to monitor. Board Director Julie DeSalvo said looking at which teachers were involved in particular behaviors would be important to drill down the issue of disproportionality, if that information could be shared. I cannot stress enough the importance of this, she said. Were behind the eight ball, and we have to move and move fast. One question raised by Director Allison Beck was on how the district could hire more diverse staff, even if it wasnt at the teacher level. One of the big things we know can change behaviors and affect a kids life is having someone who looks like them in an authority position, she said. A proposal that would establish a special taxing district for Bettendorfs downtown is advancing in City Hall. Aldermen are scheduled to begin the public hearings process early next month. The proposal is similar to ones in Davenport and Moline, where property owners petition for an increased tax levy in a specific area to go toward projects in their own backyards. Ryan Jantzi, director of the Downtown Bettendorf Organization, says about twice the minimum number of industrial, commercial and multi-residential property owners have signed on to the petition. The wide support, he said, demonstrates that downtown property owners are eager to have a new mechanism for beautifying the neighborhood and spurring economic activity. The proposal would create an additional tax for downtown commercial, industrial and multi-residential property owners at $2.75 per $1,000 of assessed value. If approved, money generated by the taxes would go toward enhancing the downtown area. Current outlined plans for that money include creation of a website, work plans for future capital projects, graffiti removal and additional cleaning. I want to hear their concerns and take those to Washington, too, Kedley said, speaking by phone Tuesday during his lunch break as he was waiting for the next crop of grade-schoolers to come to class. Its a really interesting district, Kedley added. You have the agriculture sprinkled throughout, you have the urbanization of Iowa City, you have the industrial base of the Muscatine-Clinton region. Really I believe the 2nd district is the core of what Iowans are, Kedley said, adding: I really am proud of this district and I think it needs better representation. Loebsack, the 24-county areas congressional representative since 2006, surprised many in Iowas political realm last month when he announced he would not seek reelection in 2020, saying he planned to retire. In 2018, Loebsack handily defeated Republican opponent Chris Peters, who lacked the financial and vocal backing of the national party, cruising to his 12th consecutive term. Loebsacks planned bow-out has set off high interest from members of both major political parties as the 2020 election season already begins to creep in. Some Democrats have also announced or are thought to be considering a run, including Iowa Sen. Zach Wahls and Scott County Supervisor Ken Croken. We get the same currents as the river on the street, said Betty Werner, Raabes neighbor. Werner recently returned home from a trip to Chicago, where her children live. Some neighbors have stayed elsewhere during the historic flooding, while others like Raabe have stuck it out. We have electricity and water. Were good, Raabe said. Just a few minutes north, Port Byron had left the worst of the flooding as of Tuesday. Water levels had fallen significantly, and major flooding appeared to have ended in the village. In LeClaire, water had receded along the riverfront, allowing low-lying businesses to open as normal this week. According to the National Weather Service, as of Tuesday at 3 p.m. LeClaire remained in major flood stage at 14.3 feet and falling Forecasts predict that the flooding might be downgraded to a moderate flood stage as early as Monday. In Rock Island, forecasts have local flooding in the major flood stage through at least Tuesday. New Yorks greatest deliberative body. Photo: Tim Roske/AP/REX/Shutterstock Donald Trump is a product of New York. But right about now, the president probably wishes he was a son of Texas. With Republicans in control of the Senate and his lackeys at the top of every major agency Trump has all but immunized himself from accountability at the federal level. Earlier this week, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin refused to honor the Houses legally binding (in the view of most scholars) request to turn over six years of Donald Trumps tax returns, arguing that Congress lacked a legitimate legislative purpose for soliciting those documents. That decision will be challenged in court. And considering the abnormalities in the ten years of tax returns the New York Times reported on Tuesday night, the notion that Democrats couldnt possibly find a legislative use for Trumps information is absurd. For one thing, theres the national-security question of where a mogul who claimed more than $1 billion in losses between 1985 and 1994 got his financing in the decades since. For another, the White House itself claims that the tax returns the Times reported on reflect unfair tax loopholes that need to change. Nevertheless, its going to take a while for the courts to settle the matter and given how conservative the courts have grown on Trumps watch, theres a decent chance theyll rule in his favor. Thus, if Trump were from the Lone Star State or some other bastion of red America he wouldnt have to worry about the exposure of his recent tax history for at least a while. Alas, Trump grew up and did the lions share of his business in the deep-blue Empire State. So even though hes turned the Justice Department into something approaching his personal detective agency, he still has state-level prosecutors combing through his books. And even though hes persuaded Mnuchin to nullify the law to keep his taxes under wraps, hes got New York State lawmakers on the cusp of releasing his state-level returns. On Wednesday, New Yorks Senate easily passed a bill that would require the state to turn over the state tax returns of any U.S. president, vice-president, or senator or any state governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, or comptroller upon the request of the House Ways and Means Committee. Given that the Assembly is overwhelmingly Democratic and Governor Andrew Cuomo has already endorsed the legislation it seems only a matter of time before the bill becomes law. New York still wouldnt be able to provide the House with the federal tax returns it has sought. But since Trumps economic activity has been so heavily concentrated in New York, it is likely that his state-level returns will mirror his federal ones in many respects. At the very least, they will offer unprecedented insight into Trumps business relationships and recent income. It remains possible that the Trump administration will find a federal court willing to block New Yorks hand. But legal analysts who spoke with the Washington Posts Jeff Stein were skeptical. The claim that New York cant give Trumps returns to Ways and Means is really, really, really weak, Daniel Hemel, a professor at the University of Chicago, told the paper. New York has a really good argument that its just mirroring Congresss own choice about confidentiality. Shortly before its vote on the tax-return legislation, the New York State Senate passed a bill clarifying that a presidential pardon does not immunize an individual against state-level prosecution for similar charges in the state a dull bit of legislative minutiae that surely does not concern the president in any way. A good Wednesday to all. Rain, possibly heavy at times, is on tap for the Quad-Cities today. Here are the weather details from the National Weather Service. The Storm Prediction Center has a slight risk for severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening along and south of U.S. 30 with a marginal risk to the north. The primary risks are damaging winds and isolated tornadoes from fast moving storms. Heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding also possible. The most likely timing for scattered thunderstorms is between 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., from southwest to northeast through the area. Flooding will continue along the Mississippi River, and portions of the Rock and Iowa Rivers. 1. Breezy with showers Showers and thunderstorms are likely before 3 p.m., then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 4 p.m. The chance of precipitation is 80% with new rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible. The high will be near 70 degrees. East winds will gust as high as 30 mph. Its going to be wet and cloudy through Thursday, but the clouds will part for four beautiful days starting Friday. Temperatures will reach the lower- to mid-60s during the day under sunny skies. But the rain that is expected through Thursday night both in the Quad-Cities and to the north of the region is going to slow the fall of the flooded Mississippi River, said meteorologist Tim Gross of the National Weather Service, Davenport. Barring any severe weather cells that could drop more rain than expected, the Mississippi River at Lock and Dam 15, Rock Island, is expected to fall to about 19.8 feet Thursday night, and then rise to about 20 feet by Saturday before beginning to slowly fall again early Monday, Gross said. The Mississippi River at Rock Island is expected to drop to 19.6 feet by early Tuesday. Flood stage at Lock and Dam 15 is 15 feet. The Mississippi River at Muscatine is expected to drop to 21 feet by early Friday and then rise slightly to 21.2 feet for several days before receding again. Gross said the North Central River Forecast Center in Chanhassen, Minn., already has figured the rains expected Wednesday and Thursday into the river forecasts for this region. We continue to be dismayed at the presidents description of the impact his tariffs are having. He says the levies on imported goods from China have contributed to "our great economic results. We wonder how many in the agriculture community would agree with that assessment. Not to mention that the president continually describes tariffs as a cost to the Chinese, when economists say they ultimately result in higher costs for consumers meaning us. The analysis we've read suggests China isn't intimidated by the presidents threats. However, the Chinese face domestic pressures of their own. If this is a negotiating tactic on the part of the president, it probably wont be too long before we see if its successful. As we said earlier, its been nearly a year since the first tariffs were launched against China, which has clearly operated unfairly in the global trade arena. With the 2020 presidential campaign in the offing, there will be an incentive for the White House to strike a deal. But if it is an empty one, there wont be much upside. Wearing bright yellow safety vests, Linda Brown and Michelle Red Water carefully washed, dried and folded massive heaps of laundry at the Care Campus in Rapid City last month. Brown, a 47-year-old Rapid City resident, said she's worked with laundry in the past but is gaining new skills at the Care Campus. "I've learned to be on time," she said with a laugh. Brown said she's also learned how to be flexible and work with others. While Brown and Red Water are working hard and learning new skills, they're not working a typical job or being paid in hard cash. They're part of the Community Work Program, a new initiative meant to keep low-level, non-violent offenders out of jail, one of the goals the local criminal justice system is working on as part of the MacArthur Foundation's Safety and Justice Challenge. The work program launched in August 2018 after being designed with input from local law enforcement, judges, prosecutors and defense lawyers, said Brian Mueller, chief deputy at the Pennington County Sheriff's Office, which oversees the initiative. Participating in the work program rather than being sent to jail means "people can be out in the community, living at home, supporting their own family," Mueller said. It "teaches offenders basic job skills while allowing them an opportunity to give back in their own communities" and is a "win-win program" for the county, taxpayers and participants. More than 100 people have participated in the program so far, said Vanessa Skaare, who coordinates the program. They do different kinds of work at the Care Campus and county complex and can also be assigned to the Humane Society, Feeding South Dakota and the Cornerstone thrift store and mission. Low-level offenders such as those convicted of DUIs, petty theft, trespassing and disorderly conduct and people who violate conditions of Veterans Court can be sentenced to community service with the work program instead of jail, Skaare said. The program is also an alternative for people who are given bonds for being very behind on child support payments but have no job, Skaare said. Instead of being sent to jail, they are given an ankle monitor that costs $6 a day. For each hour they work, $8 is taken off their ankle monitor account. Skaare also helps them write resumes, search for jobs and will write job recommendations for those who excel at their work. The participants leave the program once they find a job and the ankle monitor comes off once they pay their bond. Two people assigned to the Humane Society eventually got hired there when their "supervisors saw that they had a really good work ethic, showing up on time, no issues," Skaare said. Red Water says she owes $389 in child support each month but fell behind on her payments when she couldn't find a job after moving to the Pine Ridge Reservation to take care of family after her father died. In addition to doing laundry at the Care Campus, she also takes out trash around the county complex, shovels snow and cleans prison-transport buses and the bathroom and break room at the sheriff's office location at the fairgrounds. She said she's willing to take any permanent job she can find. "A job is a job. As long as I'm living and working, I don't care." Red Water, who doesn't have a permanent home, is living at the Cornerstone Rescue Mission to help stay sober while attending anger-management and drug-treatment classes. "They're rehabilitating me and they're saving my life in the process and they're putting positive things in front of me," she said of the work program and classes she takes. Red Water said she would have handled being sentenced to jail since she always tries to have a positive attitude, but she said with the work program, "I'm able to live. I'm able to live out and work and be in the community and be a positive role model for others who are in my situation." Brown, who was sentenced to 20 hours of community service for a low-level crime, said the work program "brings a lot of closure, you don't have to run from warrants or run from cops." Brown said she can't work full-time due to a back injury, but the program has inspired her to volunteer in the future. "I'd love to donate my time in the community," she said. Contact Arielle Zionts at arielle.zionts@rapidcityjournal.com. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Next year's Fourth of July festivities at the Mount Rushmore National Monument could feature the first fireworks display in nearly 10 years. Gov. Kristi Noem announced on Tuesday that South Dakota and the U.S. Department of the Interior will be working together to return fireworks to the monument beginning July 4, 2020. Displays have not been produced since 2009, when a pine beetle infestation killed many of the trees in the Black Hills National Forest and created potential fire hazards. In the years before, Mount Rushmore's bombastic fireworks displays had drawn thousands of visitors to the monument along with national media coverage. The State Department of Tourism regularly reported that annual broadcasts of the shows garnered viewers in the tens of millions. In her announcement, Noem said that the forest has since regained its strength and that newer pyrotechnics allow for safer displays. We are excited and honored to see fireworks return to our nations Shrine of Democracy, a statement from Noem reads. "There is no more fitting place in all the nation to celebrate our democracy than from Mount Rushmore," it continues. Noem's office said the agreement that she and Interior Secretary David Bernhardt signed on Monday pledging to work toward a fireworks revival was the result of several months worth of departmental meetings. "The State of South Dakota and the Department of the Interior have committed to an agreement to exercise their full authorities under State and Federal law to work to return fireworks to Mount Rushmore National Memorial in a safe and responsible manner," the memorandum reads. In a phone call Tuesday, Mount Rushmore Chief of Interpretation and Education Maureen McGee-Ballinger said discussions over how a safer show might be implemented are only just now beginning. "It's going to be a long process," McGee-Ballinger said. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 2 Making the Midwest blue again? Photo: Nicholas Kamm/AFP/Getty Images Donald Trumps approval rating is about as steady as his Twitter feed is volatile. Over the past two years, the presidents favorability has fluctuated a bit within a narrow band. But none of the White Houses legislative failures, indicted ex-officials, flirtations with white nationalists, or historic abuses of power have durably moved Trumps approval rating below 38 percent. And none of the presidents policy victories nor the lowest unemployment rate in five decades has been sufficient to push his favorability above 43 percent for more than an instant. Assuming Trump retains his economic tailwinds, his approval rating looks just high enough to give him a narrow advantage in 2020. But just because Trumps approval rating has been essentially stable doesnt necessarily mean that his coalition has been. Perhaps Trump has retained the support of (roughly) the same 42-ish percent of the American public throughout his time in office. Or perhaps he has compensated for significant losses with some demographics by gaining ground with others. This isnt an idle question. Trump owed his 2016 victory to the remarkable efficiency of his coalition. His 46 percent of the vote bought him a comfortable Electoral College majority because it was comprised disproportionately of non-college-educated white voters who are overrepresented in the Midwests key battleground states. Trade 100,000 of the moguls votes from blue-collar whites in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin for 100,000 of Clintons votes in the affluent suburbs of deep-blue states and the Trump presidency doesnt happen. Happily for Democrats, a new study suggests that Trump has, in fact, been making such a trade over his first two years in office. The Democracy Funds Voter Study Group tracks the evolving views of thousands of voters who were first interviewed in 2011. To keep their survey sample nationally representative, VSG has added new voters into the mix, but the repeat interviewees still offer a gauge of how various categories of voters are changing with the times. In its latest report, the VSG illuminates one critical shift hiding beneath Trumps sturdy support: He has lost significant ground with Obama-to-Trump voters. In the projects 2016 survey, 85 percent of such voters held a favorable view of the president. In its latest one, that figure fell to 66 percent. That may not sound like a lot, but, as weve observed, it wont necessarily take a lot to change the course of history. Even small movement among these voters who represented 9 percent of voters in 2016 may prove significant heading into the 2020 presidential election, the VSGs research director Robert Griffin writes in the report. Obama-Trump voters are also disproportionately white, non-college educated and, as a result, are likely to be well distributed geographically for the purpose of electoral impact. Meanwhile, Trumps standing seems to have improved among NeverTrump Republicans defined as Romney voters who went third party in 2016 although this fraction of the electorate is so small that its modestly shifting views do not cross the threshold of statistical significance. New research suggests that since 2016, Trump has lost ground with Obama-Trump voters and gained ground with Never-Trumpers... https://t.co/93YxI1CjLY pic.twitter.com/L1nwEPNzFw Will Jordan (@williamjordann) May 8, 2019 The report also appears to confirm that there is a hard ceiling on Trumps support. Only 49 percent of voters have ever approved of Trumps performance at any time since he took office. Which means that even if Trump was able to regain a favorable rating from every American who had previously offered a positive opinion of him in the last two years, this would still only represent about half of Americans. Finally, the report provides a (highly limited) form of evidence that the electorates most ambivalent voters could opt for change in 2020: The vast majority of Americans including most independents and Republicans are more likely to report negative emotions when they think about politics now than they were before Trumps election. Roughly three-quarters of the public say that they feel disgusted when they think about their nations politics. All else being equal, that seems like an undesirable state of affairs for the incumbent. One of the most vital forces celebrating the creative spirit in South Dakota is the network of community arts councils that spans our state. From Leola to Sioux Falls, and from Highmore to Rapid City, community arts councils initiate cultural activities, sponsor hometown performances and are often instrumental in bringing professional artists to town through the Artists In Schools & Communities program of the South Dakota Arts Council. All of the community arts councils in our state over 30 of them at last count have one thing in common: they all rely on the passion, commitment and participation of community volunteers. While serving on the local arts council board is a visible form of volunteerism, there are so many other ways local residents can get in on the fun and the accomplishment of enhancing the arts in each hometown. From taking tickets to posting news about upcoming events to sponsoring an artist, neighbors and businesses in each community have a role to play in strengthening local culture. Arts South Dakota is working hard to encourage community arts councils and to help them build capacity. Community Development Director Andrew Reinartz travels the state, meeting with local arts leaders and helping to assess their needs. During the next couple of months, well be conducting a survey of these groups, partly to get a more nuanced picture of our community arts councils and also to listen to what they have to say about South Dakotas cultural scene. One thing we know well hear loud and clear dedicated volunteers who care about local arts opportunities are the ones who are making it happen in communities of all sizes, in every corner of the state. The enthusiasm youll experience talking to the officers of the newest community arts council in Leola is shared by leaders of the Rapid City Arts Council, who celebrated their 50th anniversary last November. We congratulate everyone who lends a hand to a local arts council You are the heart of the arts in South Dakota. Whether you are a community arts council volunteer, an artist or want to learn more about the arts in South Dakota, visit www.ArtsSouthDakota.org. Jim Speirs is executive director of Arts South Dakota. You must be logged in to react. Click any reaction to login. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 In celebration of National Nurses week the Ravalli Republic and Missoulian asked the community to send in nominations about a nurse who made a difference in their life or the life of a loved one and what makes them an extraordinary nurse. Out of nearly 70 nurse nominations across Western Montana, eight work at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital Todd Wohlman, Randy Yeargan, Heidi Baye, Michelle Cornelison, Brittany Leatham-Olney, Jennifer Bush, Tammy Bruns and Cary Robinson. These nurses met on Monday to discuss why they help patients. Most hadnt known they had received a nomination. Randy Yeargan was a paramedic for 24-years before earning his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at age 50 and is now an Emergency Nurse at MDMH. Yeargan was nominated by a neighbor whose husband received care from Yeargan for three years. He had a lot of health problems and Id go over and take care of him, Yeargan said. He was a neighbor and Id help him out. Im still helping, I mowed her pasture for her yesterday. He is proud to help in the emergency room every day and take care of people. He said he was surprised at the nomination but felt he hadnt done anything special to earn it. Caring for people is what we do, no matter if were on the job or not, Yeargan said. You have to believe in it. The nurses agreed with Yeargan that giving care was part of life. Michelle Cornelison, is a registered nurse (RN) and an inpatient nurse who recently earned the labor and delivery nurse position at MDMH. She said she wanted to be helping deliver babies since she was 10-years-old. Her nomination said she is always looking for ways to help people in need. She is currently serving as a surrogate mother, something she has wanted to do for years. Kathy Padilla, RN, chief nursing officer, said Cornelison also works additional hours to help the hospital. I appreciate nurses who do that to take care of the community, Padilla said explaining that with the nursing shortage in the United States of 1.4 million in the next 18 months due to retirements and those leaving the profession, nurses who work extra hours are essential. Picking up extra shifts is another way they give of themselves so that we can maintain and keep open, Padilla said. This is a difficult profession to be in because you are giving every day, physical, mental and emotional to our patients. These nurses give so much to our patients every day, it is nice to honor them. Tammy Bruns, RN, works at Hamilton Obstetrics and Gynecology and everywhere as a floating nurse. Shes worked at MDMH for 29 years and is a lifelong-learner. Ive wanted to be a nurse since high school and I love helping people, Bruns said. You have a God-given gift that you give to people and just keep on going. If someone needs help you just do it and help them where ever theyre at, there is no need for recognition. She encourages anyone considering nursing to do it. Especially, If they like to help people and have an eagerness to lend a helping hand, Bruns said. At some point well all have an emergency. If you like to help people give it a try, it is very fulfilling. The energy to help just never runs out. I couldnt do my job if I didnt love it. If it gets to a point that I dont love it, it is time for me to stop. Heidi Baye, worked as a licensed practical nurse in the Bitterroot Physicians Clinic for the past 20 years, before that she worked in pediatrics in Seattle for 17 years. Baye entered the medical profession at age 16, volunteering in physical therapy at a nursing home. She was surprised by the nomination. It is very humbling to know someone would actually step forward and say something, Baye said. It is very sweet. The nomination said, Heidi is always a delight, courteous, and knows her stuff. When sending messages to the doctor she works with, she always gets right back to you and when a patient is in a bad way, works with registration to get a patient in when they are booked. Baye said the centralized theme with all nurses is, this is just what we do every day. It doesnt matter what economy status youre in, we treat everyone with respect, she said. We just do it. Baye said nursing is hard emotionally but knowing that you did the best you could for that day makes it possible, she said. Jennifer Bush, BSN, is an emergency nurse leader who agreed that nursing is hard and emotionally tough. You have to have a balance, she said. You could give 150% of yourself but then youd have nothing left to give. We keep each other in check. Trying to fix everything is the innate personality that drives us to be nurses and wanting to care for others. Padilla added that positive self-talk is an important characteristic of nurses. You have to know youve been the best you could be for that day and know it was enough, she said. You have to be okay with knowing you did everything you could do and be at peace with that. Bush said co-workers are family intertwining at work or in the community. Our hands touch our friends, our family members whether going to clinics or the hospital so we have that connection, she said. I feel we need to take care of each other and recognize when someone is having a hard time. Everyone rallies behind coworkers. We are a smaller hospital and know each other. Padilla said, Jenn takes care of her staff like she used to take care of her patients with making sure everything is going well for them. Bushs nomination said she is smart, has strong leadership and exemplary people skills. She stands head and shoulders above all the others, the nomination said. Todd Wohlman, MSN, is an inpatient nurse. He is a great communicator, his nomination said. His interactions with patients are always clear and articulate. He ensures that the patient and their family understand the instructions and remain informed regarding their care and timeline. Cary Robinson, RN, is an inpatient nurse who shares whatever information he knows that might benefit others. New to Montana, he helped fill sandbags during the heavy rain season. He is an inspiration to his family, friends and community, his nomination said. Cary is a person who goes above and beyond in making a significant impact on those who are fortunate enough to meet him. Brittany Leatham-Olney, has a Master of Science in nursing education. She is an inpatient nurse, a nurse educator and the Peoples Choice Award Winner. She was nominated by a family who appreciated her extra efforts and steps in making a mothers home-going peaceful and private. She has worked as a nurse 23-years, at MDMH 10-months and said her previous facility of 500 beds wouldnt have allowed her efforts for the nominating family. It is more personal at a smaller facility and I think people here step out of their way to help and make sure all the needs are met, Letham-Olney said. We wear more hats and pull together a little bit more. Leatham-Olney said she is honored to be selected as Peoples Choice. I dont think I did anything beyond what anyone of us would have done, she said. I just happened to be the one. Gail Simpson, RN, has a new role as the manager of nurses in primary care clinics for in patient services. She has done many nursing roles from medical surgery to school nurse and encourages anyone interested in nursing to follow their dreams. If there is something in you that makes you want to care for people just do it, she said. There are so many options in the nursing field that you can find your perfect spot. If it is in you no one will be able to stop you, its who you are. MDMH has approximately 150 nurses. Leatham-Olney said MDMH is able to attract quality individuals because, nurses are family. We are family, Bayes agreed. You feel supported as an employee. We all come together for each other. Coming from Seattle where it was chaotic and finding this little gem of a valley was totally by accident but it was supposed to be this way. Laurie Pinheiro, specialty clinic nurse manager, said it is an honor to work with the nurses. Their patients, providers and co-workers love them, they are great people, she said. Bush said the nominated nurses are a small percentage of employees at MDMH. Each nurse would have a story similar to ours and beyond nursing, hospital-wide you would see that community and empathy from other employees as well, she said. Padilla said there are hidden and unsung heroes and National Nurses week spotlights a few examples. This helps us see the brilliance, knowledge base, hard work, empathy and courageousness, resilience and strength that they have day in and day out, she said. Im privileged to be part of their lives as we take care of the community. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The wife of the Montana Highway Patrol trooper who was seriously injured when he was shot multiple times in March has recorded an emotional message to supporters. Trooper Wade Palmer was injured in a March 15 shooting after responding to a call to locate a man suspected in an earlier shooting that injured two people and killed a third. In the video, Lindsey Palmer says she is honored to be a part of the "LEO" (law enforcement officer) family and says the generosity of supporters has allowed her to take a leave from work and be with her husband at a hospital in Utah. "In the last couple of weeks, every day has brought us small improvements," she said. "Those of us who know Wade well can see his personality slowly emerging through his actions. Wade has a long road to recovery. Rehabilitation and more surgeries are in his future, and at this point there is much that we dont understand. The path ahead will not be easy but Wade is tough and he is a fighter." Casey Blanchard, one of the victims who survived the earlier shooting, is also being treated at University Hospital in Utah. The wife of the Montana Highway Patrol trooper who was seriously injured when he was shot in March has recorded an emotional thank-you video. 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It operates its business through the following segments: Australia Retail and Commercial; Institutional; New Zealand; Pacific; and Technology, Services and Operations and Group Centre. The Australia segment comprises the retail and corporate and commercial business units which provides products and services to consumer and private banking customers in Australia via the branch network, mortgage specialists, the contact centres, a variety of self-service channels and and third party brokers; and banking services including traditional relationship banking and financial solutions through managers focusing on privately owned small, medium, and large enterprises as well as the agricultural businesses. The Institutional segment refers to the transaction banking, loans and specialised finance and markets solutions. The New Zealand segment refers to the retail and commercial business units. The Pacific segment offers products and services to retail customers, small to medium-sized enterprises, institutional customers and governments loc Read More Over the years, U.S. banking giant Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) has established a reputation as a proficient high-profile M&A deal broker--not to mention the go-to house for defense mandate against unsolicited bids. But even that hasnt kept it immune from growing pains in key overseas markets. A few months ago, Bloomberg reported that the bank was dropping some of its international wealth-management clients--a newly minted yet lucrative business for the 88-year old bank. And now MS has just announced plans to close down a core operation. Morgan Stanley says it will shutter all its Russian operations within the next 12 months, or effectively by first quarter of 2020. Morgan Stanleys Russian arm claims that sanctions by the U.S. and EU have made it too hard for businesses in Russia to access international capital markets. The announcement comes at a time when MS shares are on the mend after a disastrous period last year that saw them hammered due to a drop in income at the banks pivotal bond trading segment. Still, shares have outperformed the sector benchmark, the Invesco KBW Bank ETF (KBWB) in the YTD and also over the past three years. (Click to enlarge) Source: CNN Money Significant impact MS plans to shut down its Moscow equities and currency trading units. Morgan Stanley becomes the latest foreign lender to exit Russia joining the likes of Credit Suisse AG, Deutsche Bank AG and Citigroup. A couple of local banks have also scaled back their ambitions. Russian markets have been punished by increased sanctions designed to punish the Kremlin since its 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. MS though says it remains committed to the Russian market and will keep its consulting business in the country since this does not require a license. So, how bad will the banks decision to offload a key business impact the income statement? Well, MS did not give any figures, preferring to be a bit vague: (The) impact of changes in the economy on the future results of the banks business and its financial condition may turn out to be significant. Morgan Stanley is not your classical investment bank but rather is more of a financial holding company or commercial bank with a big focus on investment banking including provision of services to governments, corporations, private financial institutions and high-net-worth individuals. MS, together with its great rival, Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS), are credited with leading Wall Streets recovery after the last financial crisis. Related: Warren Buffett Is Betting Big On Energy Stocks The bank made big changes to its revenue model from 2011-2012 by reducing its focus on fixed income activities and focussing more on equities and bond trading. These changes were made to fit a lower-beta revenue model prescribed by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform Act. On the investment side, MS has been focussing more on riskier but high-growth tech companies. MS was the lead underwriter for Google, Inc. Cisco Systems, Groupon and Salesforce.com and has also been instrumental in IPOs such as Apple, Inc., Facebook, Inc. and Snap, Inc. Bond trouble Most banks trading desks ended 2018 with a whimper. However, few rivaled Morgan Stanleys pain after the bank posted the worst bond-trading performance of the Big 5 banksa massive 30 percent drop in segment income to $564 million. Trading makes up a bigger slice of the banks revenue than its peers so that really hurt overall performance. Morgan Stanleys equities desk ranks as Wall Streets biggest stock trading shop. Nevertheless, MS has managed to bounce backsomewhat-- as its latest set of quarterly results show. Q1 2019 adjusted EPS of $1.33 beat Wall Street consensus by 16 cents. Net interest income of $1.01B was marginally better than Q4s print of $989M and $975M in Q1 2018. Wealth Management net revenue of $4.39B also marked a marginal improvement compared to $4.37B a year ago. Investment Management revenue of $804M represented 12 percent Y/Y growth while AUM of $480B increased from $469B a year earlier. However, the firms trading desk continued to show weakness. Institutional Securities net revenue of $5.20B fell from $6.10B a year ago, with Sales & Trading revenue of $3.74B dropping 15% while Investment Banking revenue of $1.15B was a 24% Y/Y contraction. (Click to enlarge) Source: Seeking Alpha Regardless, MS stock is still viewed quite favorably on Wall Street, with a consensus 4.11 out of 5 Outperform rating. By Alex Kimani for SafeHaven.com More Top Reads From Safehaven.com: For some families, nursing goes back generations. In others, the inspiration comes at a young age as a result of a sick family member. Its no different for Mae Lagua, who found her calling because of her mother, who has been a nurse for three decades and is now a shift coordinator at Marian Extended Care. At 30 years old, Lagua has been a registered nurse for two years and was a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) for eight years before that. Shes originally from Santa Maria. In fact, she was born at Marian Regional Medical Center, where she works now. Check concentrate feeder accuracy WITH the cost of dairy cow concentrates rising farmers have been urged to check the accuracy of their feeders to ensure they are not overfeeding, or indeed underfeeding, their livestock. Trump and Falwell in May 2017. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images Donald Trumps former fixer and current federal inmate Michael Cohen says he lent his problem-burying skill set to Jerry Falwell Jr. in 2016, helping the Evangelical leader handle a situation in which someone possessed the kind of personal photos that would be kept between husband and wife, according to a taped recording of Cohen obtained by Reuters. Falwell reportedly reached out to Cohen in 2015 after someone acquired the pictures and demanded money for them. According to Reuters, Cohen flew to Florida and spoke with the persons attorney, telling the lawyer that his client was committing a crime and that law-enforcement authorities would be called if the demands didnt stop. A source familiar with Cohens thinking told Reuters the lawyer soon told Cohen that all the photographs had been destroyed. The report does not explicitly state who is in the pictures. According to two people familiar with the matter who spoke with Reuters, Cohen was also crucial in the effort to convince Falwell the president of Liberty University and a prominent Evangelical voice to endorse Trump in 2016 just before the Iowa caucuses. As the news agency states, it has no evidence that Falwells endorsement of Trump was related to Cohens involvement in the photo matter. The tape in which Cohen describes his alleged connection to Falwell was recorded surreptitiously by comedian Tom Arnold, who transitioned late in life into a political provocateur. Parts of the recording including Cohens possible disavowal of his guilty plea were made public on April 24 by theWall Street Journal, but the detail of Cohens alleged favor is new to the Reuters report. I actually have one of the photos, Cohen reportedly tells Arnold on the tape. Its terrible. Police seized the DeepDotWeb website and arrested its operators for their business in facilitating the access to darkweb marketplaces and vendors. DeepDotWeb was a website for facilitating access to dark web sites and marketplaces. The site was seized and the arrests were made as part of an international operation involving the FBI, Europol, and Federal law enforcement agencies from Germany, Israel, the Netherlands, and Brazil. Police seized the DeepDotWeb website and arrested its operators accused of have made millions of dollars in affiliate commissions generated by referring traffic to darkweb marketplaces and vendors. Arrests were made in Israel, France, Germany and the Netherlands. DeepDotWeb web site included news on Dark Web and the real-time updated listing of black marketplaces and illegal shops running on the Tor anonymizing network. For each website, DeepDotWeb offered statistics on the uptime and notes on its history, along with the links to reach the hidden services and associated forums. It was very easy to search for black marketplaces selling drugs, malware, stolen credit card data, stolen personal data, and other illegal services. DeepDotWeb Seized by FBI According to Israeli local media, two Israeli men were arrested and accused of running the DeeptDotWeb website. Two Israelis have been arrested on suspicion of involvement in running a website on the so-called dark web that facilitated the purchase of weapons, drugs and other contraband, authorities said Tuesday. reported The Times of Israel. Arrests were made in France, Germany, the Netherlands, Brazil and Israel where police tracked down and on Monday arrested a 35-year-old resident of Tel Aviv and a 34-year-old resident of Ashdod. Last week, another operation conducted by law enforcement led to the shutdown of the criminal marketplaces Wall Street Market and Valhalla. Pierluigi Paganini (SecurityAffairs fingerprints, Genesis Store) Share this... Linkedin Share this: Twitter Print LinkedIn Facebook More Tumblr Pocket Share On US Sentencing Commission (finally) releases 2018 Annual Report and Sourcebook of Federal Sentencing Statistics | Main | Spotlighting how federal drug prosecution patterns have changed in recent years May 8, 2019 "Rewriting the Sentence Summit on Alternatives to Incarceration" The title of this post is the title of this great event taking place next month in New York City hosted By Columbia University and The Aleph Institute at Columbia Law School. Though I have played a small role in helping to plan the event, some folks much more talented than me have arranged for an extraordinary array of great speakers to be at the event (as detailed at this link). The event website provides this overview: What is the Rewriting the Sentence Summit on Alternatives to Incarceration? This is a high-level summit that aims to highlight the range of alternative sentencing policies and programs that are currently operating in the U.S. and abroad, and look more deeply at their effectiveness and functional requirements. It will include a wide range of perspectives on these issues. Who will participate in the summit? The summit will bring together an unprecedented number of current and former leaders and senior government officials who have served on the front lines of day-to-day operations in the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, government, judiciary, defense, forensic social workers and psychologists, and nonprofits, as well as formerly incarcerated people, victims and advocacy groups. What are the summits objectives? Beyond education, The Rewriting the Sentence Summit on Alternatives to Incarceration will use plenary, breakout and interactive sessions to generate substantive dialogue between all delegates and identify key priorities for: Expanding the use of effective alternative sentencing programs while enhancing public safety, including the mechanisms of discretion (police, prosecutorial and judicial) and legislative reforms; Addressing public safety concerns over its broadened use and practical barriers to expansion and launching effective new programs in new jurisdictions, including operational limitations, program evaluation and public education; NGOs that can help to support broader application of effective alternative sentencing, e.g., ubiquity of access and other measures and peripheral programs to help ensure successful reentry. What sets the summit apart from other events? The number of high-level participants; the balance between reformers and healthy skeptics; the interactive session; and the focus on making connections and producing outcomes that include the development of a database of best practices and an informal network for future coordination and support. May 8, 2019 at 04:32 PM | Permalink Comments Glad to see there are zero criminal defense practitioners among this fantastic group of speakers. Posted by: hgd | May 9, 2019 10:29:48 AM Interesting observation, hgd. One of the headliners, Nancy Gertner, has a rich history as a defense attorney before and after her time as a judge. Also, I am pretty sure there are a number of other defense folks on the agenda (I am arguably one, though not a "real" one). But it is still notable who is being highlighted in these materials. Posted by: Doug B. | May 9, 2019 2:56:49 PM Nancy Gertner is a great advocate. It is interesting how we notice who speaks for issues. There is some primal truth in the phrase, "Nothing about us without us." Posted by: beth | May 9, 2019 8:01:39 PM Post a comment Latest issue of ABA Journal focuses on addressing collateral consequences | Main | So much to keep up with concerning Kim Kardashian's criminal justice reform efforts In this post last month about the new secretary of the Pennsylvania pardon board, I recalled Judge Marvin Frankel famously urging the creation of a "Commission on Sentencing" and the appointment of "former or present prison inmates" to the commission because "the recipients of penal 'treatment' must have relevant things to say about it." Frankel's long-ago advocacy and this new story out of Minnesota prompts the wondering in the title of this post. The press article is headlined "'Incarceration survivor' vows to add missing perspective to Minnesota's sentencing commission," and here are excerpts: Before she was a teen, Tonja Honsey knew what it was like to be under court supervision. Decades and several jail stints later, she almost lost her youngest child while four months pregnant and behind bars on a probation violation. "I say that I'm an incarceration survivor," Honsey said. The 42-year-old St. Paul woman has since found sobriety and built a deep resume as a criminal justice reformer, a different type of record that led Gov. Tim Walz to put her on the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission. When Honsey arrives for her first meeting later this week she will join a new panel of jurists, law enforcement and legal officials tasked with recommending changes to the Legislature and the courts on how Minnesotans should be punished and rehabilitated for their crimes. Believed to be the first woman to serve on the commission after having served time behind bars, Honsey brings a wealth of experience helping mothers and pregnant inmates in the years since her return to society. She also brings direct knowledge, having bounced back from the receiving end of Minnesota's criminal justice system. Growing up in what she describes as a dysfunctional family, Honsey found herself turned over to state-run institutions after repeatedly running away from home at an early age. She later cycled into selling drugs to make ends meet while on her own, and eventually using them to cope with childhood trauma. Her record also includes charges for check forgery and theft. Her most serious drug crime was in Freeborn County: a 2002 conviction for second-degree controlled substance, after a clandestine meth lab bust near Maple Island.... Hers is a perspective, she said, that the sentencing commission could use. "The shift needs to turn from people who have gone to school to learn about re-entry, to where people who are directly impacted need to be the ones leading," Honsey said. "And not just brought in for a focus group. We actually need to be leading the charge." She will serve with several other new members. Walz also appointed Kelly Lyn Mitchell, who leads the University of Minnesota's Robina Institute of Criminal Law and Criminal Justice, as new chairwoman of the commission. Abby Honold, a Minnesota rape survivor who has been a leading voice on working to improve how police handle rape cases, will be a new commissioner representing Minnesotans who have been the victims of a crime. Walz said his appointments are intended to "ensure that a diversity of perspectives is represented when making these life-altering decisions."... Dan Cain, president of RS Eden, was the first former inmate to serve on the commission when he was tapped in its early stages in 1982. He eventually went on to chair the group. Minnesota was the first state to create a body to study sentencing policy in 1978 and, two years later, issued the nation's first set of sentencing guidelines for state court judges. "I think that my being on the commission was recognition by the commission members that not everyone shared their worldview," said Cain, who is 47 years sober and was pardoned for a series of burglary and forgery crimes committed in the 1970s. "I think a mistake policymakers make often is they believe the same things that motivate and deter them are the same things that motivate and deter everyone." Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo presented the new matrix of alleged conspiracy between the Liberal Party, the Magdalo group and other organizations seeking to oust President Rodrigo Duterte. MANILA, Philippines Opposition groups and individuals who were accused as plotters to oust President Rodrigo Duterte have denied the latest allegation floated by Malacanang several days before the May 13 midterm elections. Citing supposed intelligence information, Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Wednesday presented a new diagram showing the purported conspiracy between the Liberal Party (LP), Magdalo group and other organizations and individuals to discredit the administration and to boost the candidacy of the opposition. READ: Palace shows new diagram on Magdalo, Liberal party conspiracy to oust Duterte This is the nth time that the administration, when confronted with controversy, falsely accuses the LP of being involved in ouster plots. Gawa-gawa lang yan (thats just fabricated), said LP president Sen. Francis Pangilinan in a message to reporters. Ang hindi gawa-gawa na dapat nilang ipaliwanag ay bakit walang nahuhuli na mga drug lord o pinaparusahan na opisyal ng Customs sa paulit-ulit na pagpuslit ng toneladang shabu sa BoC, he added. Edwin Lacierda, a spokesman of former President Benigno Aquino III, also dismissed as fabricated a matrix released by Malacanang. Lacierda said, a Grade School Matrix does not an evidence make. This government seemed to have discovered a new technology called The Grade School Matrix as this is the third time this government employed a matrix to refute charges against them, he said in a message. He believes his name could have been linked to the alleged ouster plot because he is an active liker of Magdalo Party-list Representative Gary Alejano, a senatorial candidate of opposition slate Otso Diretso. If that is true, this government has all abandoned its sanity. it is also curious to note that Sec Panelo has distanced himself from the Grade School Matrix, Lacierda said. Story continues I have no involvement whatsoever with the Bikoy video, he added, referring to the Ang Totoong Narco List video series shared online. VERA Files president Ellen Tordesillas also denied any involvement, calling Malacanangs matrix an imagined destabilization effort. I deny allegations by Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo linking me to any imagined destabilization efforts against the administration, she said. I challenge him to present evidence, not just silly diagrams, she added. Meanwhile, Senator Antonio Trillanes, a vocal critic of Duterte, listed the issues against the President as he refuted claims that the Magdalo group was discrediting the administration. Si Duterte ang nagpapatay ng libu-libong Pilipino; may bilyun-bilyon pisong tagong yaman; gumigiba sa mga democratic institutions; minumura ang Diyos; at nag iimbento ng mga akusasyon sa mga kritiko niya; tapos kami ang nagdi-discredit? Trillanes said in a statement. May pa matrix-matrix ka pa na nalalaman, umayos ka nga Mr. Panelo, he added. (with details from Rosalie Coz) The post Alleged plotters refute Malacanangs oust Duterte matrix appeared first on UNTV News. Trump finds his own tax returns outrageous, and will close all relevant loopholes if hes ever elected president. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images Late in the 2016 campaign, the New York Times revealed that Donald Trump had claimed a $916 million loss on his 1995 tax return, and, as a result, had likely paid little-to-no income taxes in the decades since. At the final presidential debate, Hillary Clinton argued that her billionaire rivals freeloading was outrageous. And the Republican nominee did not disagree. Were entitled because of the laws that people like her passed to take massive amounts of depreciation on other charges, and we do it, Trump explained. And all of her donors just about all of them I know Buffett took hundreds of millions of dollars, Soros, George Soros, took hundreds of millions of dollars And you know, Hillary, what you should have done, you should have changed the law when you were a United States senator You should have changed the law. But you wont change the law, because you take in so much money. This was a variation on one of Trumps favorite counterattacks: His serial abuse of Americas tax laws and campaign-finance system only proved that he was a savvy businessman, and that his opponents were all corrupt or incompetent career politicians. After all, his job had been to win the rat race; their job was to write its rules. Dont hate the player, hate the league commissioner. My whole life Ive been greedy, greedy, greedy, Trump confessed at an early Republican debate. But now I want to be greedy for the United States. The NSA recruits master hackers to fix the gaps in U.S. cybersecurity so who better than a master tax cheat to close our codes unjust loopholes? At the time, this was a decent comeback. Today, it is not. On Tuesday, the New York Times revealed that between 1985 and 1994, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer, according to newly uncovered IRS transcripts. In total, the mogul suffered some $1.17 billion in losses over the decade, as failed business venture (and subsequent bailout from daddy) piled on top of failed business venture (and subsequent bailout from daddy). In response, the president has decided to once again reframe evidence of his entrepreneurial incompetence as proof of the tax codes brokenness. The president got massive depreciation and tax shelter because of large-scale construction and subsidized developments, a senior White House official told the Times in a statement. That is why the president has always scoffed at the tax system and said you need to change the tax laws. You can make a large income and not have to pay large amount of taxes. The president is right to scoff. In the U.S., commercial real-estate owners can write off the depreciating value of their buildings even when those properties are, in actual fact, appreciating in value due to the increasing desirability of the land on which they sit. Its an indefensible provision that, among other things, allows many landlords to pay no taxes on their rental income. But there are a couple of obvious problems with the White Houses line of defense. One is that depreciation can only account for a small fraction of the extraordinary losses Trump posted. The other, more fundamental one, is that Donald Trump already passed a sweeping reform of Americas tax code, which not only preserved the massive depreciation and tax shelter loopholes he benefited from, but actually expanded them. And yet, the president is so attached to his the tax code is the real scandal talking point, he doubled down on it Wednesday morning. Real estate developers in the 1980s & 1990s, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases. Much was non monetary. Sometimes considered tax shelter, ...... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 ....you would get it by building, or even buying. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes....almost all real estate developers did - and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport. Additionally, the very old information put out is a highly inaccurate Fake News hit job! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Trumps defense here is arguably more damning than the Times allegations. In theory, theres no reason why a bad businessman cant go on to become a good president. But a commander-in-chief whose signature legislative achievement expanded tax loopholes that he himself describes as grossly unfair is pretty much a bad president, by definition. What he should do, he should change the law. But he wont change the law, because he takes in so much money. Photo from Getty Images SINGAPORE The elder of two brothers who under-declared income earned from their well-known durian business was jailed for three weeks on Tuesday (7 May), and also fined $5,000 and ordered to pay a penalty of $77,077.91. Singaporean Shui Poh Sing, 60, and his younger brother Poh Chung, 57, ran Ah Seng Durian, a well-known stall in Ghim Moh. Each brother pleaded guilty to two income-tax charges, involving a combined $45,933 in taxes undercharged. Another four charges of evading income taxes were taken into consideration for sentencing. The younger Shui was already fined a total of $10,000 as well as a penalty of $46,303 on Friday (3 May). The duo were partners in Seng Chung Trading (SCT) and Shanghai Moh Lee Seng (SMLS), a mini-mart business. SMLS ceased business on 20 February 2012 and was taken over by SCT on the same day. The elder Shui was a managing partner of both companies and had oversight of both accounts. He failed to declare the income he earned from SMLS and SCT while e-filing his personal income tax returns for 2008 and 2014 respectively. The income he omitted to declare amounted to $196,686.47. On Tuesday, Shui Poh Sing also admitted to one charge of failing to register for the Goods and Services Tax (GST), with $87,314 in taxes undercharged. SMLSs turnover had crossed the $1 million threshold for GST registration on 31 December 2006. Under the GST Act, Shui Poh Sing was required to notify the Comptroller of GST of SMLSs liability, in order to register for the tax by 31 January next year. However, he failed to do so. As a result, $87,314.27 of GST was undercharged. Both brothers had used the undeclared income to finance mortgage payments for properties in Malaysia. Other Singapore stories Corrective Work Orders rose 30% to 2,600 cases in 2018: NEA 7 pollution incidents along Johor river have caused PUB plant's temporary shutdown since 2017: Masagos IMDA launches public consultation on 5G network rollout Peter Joemel Advincula MANILA, Philippines The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has rejected the request for legal aid of Peter Joemel Advincula who claims to be Bikoy in the controversial Ang Totoong Narco List video series. Advincula on Monday surfaced at the IBP headquarters in Pasig City to seek legal assistance, claiming there were threats to his life. READ: Man claiming to be Bikoy asks help from IBP In a statement released on Wednesday, the IBP through its National Center for Legal Aid (NCLA) said it decided to decline Advinculas request for free legal assistance after duly processing and conducting a thorough evaluation of his application. The NCLA has determined that Mr. Advincula may not be provided free legal assistance based on the standards provided for in the NCLA Manual of Operations in approving such requests, the IBP said. The IBP stated that Advincula came to their office to seek free legal assistance and representation in the filing of charges against certain individuals, including candidates for elective positions for their alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade. In the pursuit of its mandate to provide access to justice to the poor and the marginalized, the IBP cannot be seen to be siding with or going against any candidate or political party, it said. The IBP added that communications and documents submitted by Advincula shall remain privileged and confidential. The organization earlier denied speculations that Bikoy is under its custody. The group also maintained that it was unaware of his press briefing at their facility, and had nothing to do with the statement he read before the media. READ: IBP: Bikoy not under our custody READ: Senate to probe Bikoy claims this week A Senate panel is set to conduct a hearing on Advinculas claims on Friday. The post IBP declines Bikoy request for legal help appeared first on UNTV News. Iranian protesters demonstrate outside the former U.S. embassy in Tehran on November 4, 2018. Photo: Atta Kenare/AFP/Getty Images On the one-year anniversary of the Trump administrations pullout from an international agreement freezing Irans nuclear weapons program, Tehran announced that it would stop complying with some terms of the deal, threatening to begin enriching uranium again in 60 days if the deals other signatories do not counter Washingtons sanctions on Irans oil exports and international trading partners. This move came after several weeks of rising tension, spreading from diplomatic meeting rooms and oil-company boardrooms into the zone of guns and warships. The U.S. exit from the Iran deal, which was negotiated by the Obama administration with European allies and Iran, was supposed to kick off a period of intensifying pressure on Iran, with a new coalition of U.S. allies bringing Iran back to the negotiating table to create a better deal. Although Washingtons re-intensified sanctions have dented Irans economy and further heightened the suffering of its citizens, the regime hasnt come back to the table on nuclear issues or slowed down its support for terror groups and proxy fighters across the Middle East. The year has been marked by rising protests across Iranian society, but few outsiders think that the regime overthrow National Security Advisor John Bolton so explicitly wants is close. And rather than falling in line behind the U.S., European countries even Trumps far-right allies have worked to develop financial mechanisms that might undercut U.S. sanctions. Despite few signs that its strategy is working, the Trump administration has forged ahead, making increasingly drastic moves against Iran. A month ago, the administration designated the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps a terrorist organization under U.S. law, potentially subjecting anyone who does business with the Corps a major military and economic power within Iran and regionally to prosecution, confiscation of assets, or exclusion from the U.S. This cuts a huge swath between the IRGCs close ties to Iraqi, Syrian, and Lebanese political and military entities including some that have worked closely with Washington in the past and its economic holdings, which encompass at least one-sixth of the entire Iranian economy. Companies it controls are heavily involved in energy, construction, and other lucrative fields, affecting businesses both at home and abroad. (For instance, IRGC members may have laundered money through a hotel construction deal in Azerbaijan with Donald and Ivanka Trump.) Then, two weeks later, the administration also announced it would not extend any of the waivers that had allowed countries to buy Iranian oil over the last year without facing U.S. financial sanctions that threatened to cripple their ability to participate in global markets. Countries such as China and India may not entirely comply, or may shift to barter arrangements that skirt the sanctions. But Japan, South Korea, and others shifting away from Iranian oil put even more pressure on Tehran, and in particular on those Iranian factions that had pressed not to resume their nuclear weapons program or otherwise visibly retaliate against Washington. One of the main reasons that Republican and Democratic administrations alike have over the years chosen not to designate the IRGC as a terrorist group was the recognition that it would view that as an escalation and respond, probably with threats of terror attacks. Sure enough, intelligence officials report an uptick in the number of credible Iranian plots against U.S. interests and soldiers around the region. Israeli officials went out of their way to warn Washington about Irans scheming, and to take anonymous credit in the media, via an Israeli reporter who writes for the D.C. insider newsletter Axios. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life both against corruption charges and an intensifying conflict with Palestinian forces in Gaza (which are not allied with Iran) immediately jumped into the fray to call Irans moves away from the nuclear deal unacceptable. Hezbollah-aided attacks on Israels northern frontiers are thus a third front for Netanyahu, and one where he will use his political leverage to insist on U.S. help. It doesnt look as if the White House and Pentagon had worked out a response for when the inevitable Iranian threats began. They were left scrambling this week, opting to speed up and rebrand an aircraft carriers already-planned arrival in the region, something the Iranians noticed and were quick to mock on social media. On the positive side, that may mean Tehran sees Washingtons move as a bit of a bluff. On the negative side, there is no reason to believe that the Iranian threats are just bluffs. Over the last few years, forces allied with the IRGC have fought uneasily with the U.S. against ISIS in Iraq but before that, they were responsible for the deaths of hundreds of U.S. soldiers during the Iraq War. In sum, Washingtons actions over the last year have yielded no actual progress in dealing with the threats Iran poses to nuclear security, regional security, or domestic oppression. And with its threat today, Tehran presents Washington with a nasty dilemma: Move further away from European partners who try to meet Irans demands in hopes of keeping its centrifuges silent, or return to the unstable world in which Iran is moving toward nuclear capability. From the European perspective, these are tough choices, too. Should they try to appease Iran, which is, everyone agrees, engaging in a bit of nuclear blackmail while continuing to destabilize the region and repress its citizens? Can they act together in a way that will get both Tehran and Washington out of this escalating spiral, or is that a hopeless task? What would that mean for U.S.-European unity, and for NATO? Democrats, Europeans, and many Iranians had hoped that the U.S. could simply rejoin the deal under a new administration in January 2021 and quickly move at least one off the regions many thorny problems off the to-do list. But the next 60 days may make that a quaint relic, like so much else about pre-Trump American foreign policy. With some efficiency, the administration has created a situation that may finally wreck one of the Obama administrations singular accomplishments and cleave a crack in the Atlantic Alliance that none of the frantic patching of military leaders and foreign ministers can cover. And, of course, it adds Iran to a list of areas, along with Venezuela, North Korea, and Eastern Europe, where U.S. opponents believe Washington is hatching plans for military action, though no one really knows what the Trump administration is hatching. Fifty years on from the release of the 1969 film The Italian Job, Lamborghini Polo Storico has certified the Lamborghini Miura P400, chassis #3586, as the original car used in the Paramount Pictures film. The orange Miura P400 (technically Arancio Miura) with white/black leather interior has been the most pursued Miura in recent decades: it appears at the start of the film, driven by the actor Rossano Brazzi on the Great St Bernard Pass. In the movie plot, the car is destroyed, but nobody would have really ruined what was the most desired car of the moment. In reality, Paramount also depicted an identical, crashed Miura. Just a few years after the films release, once it had been established that the car used in filming was not the one destroyed in the on-screen accident, a hunt began to find the opening-scene Miura. Over the following five decades, enthusiasts and collectors from around the world searched and amassed numerous and sometimes conflicting clues. The current owner of this historic model, The Kaiser Collection of Vaduz (Liechtenstein), decided to consult Lamborghini Polo Storico in an attempt to give, once and for all, a chassis number to the Miura driven by Brazzi. The car was sent to Lamborghinis specialist historic department at its SantAgata Bolognese headquarters, where Polo Storicos reconstruction started from documentation in the company archives and from examining the car. The results were then supplemented with testimonies from enthusiasts and former employees, such as Enzo Moruzzi, who delivered the car to the set and drove it in all the shots as a stunt double. By doing this, Polo Storico was able to find the missing evidence and certify that the Miura P400, chassis #3586, was exactly the one used to shoot The Italian Job. This recognition comes at the same time as the 50th anniversary celebrations of the film, released in June 1969. Story continues The film production company, Paramount Pictures, approached Automobili Lamborghini for a car to use for the filming. Once they got to SantAgata Bolognese they decided on an orange-colored Miura, which was already heavily damaged and therefore perfect for the accident scene. At the same time, Lamborghini provided a second car of the same color for the shoot. It was Enzo Moruzzi who took the car to the set; in those days, he often delivered cars to the most important clients or onto film sets. Moruzzi recalls, There was a Miura P400 almost ready on the production line, in the right color, left-hand drive and with white leather interior. It was aesthetically identical to the damaged one and we decided to use it for the film. The only thing worrying us was the elegant white leather seats, given that car had to get back to SantAgata in perfect condition. So, I asked for them to be taken out, replacing them with a set of black leather seats that we used for testing. The giveaway was the headrests, which on the Miura are attached to the dividing glass between the driver compartment and the engine compartment, which couldnt be replaced in time. In the film, you can see the original white headrests. At the end of filming, and once it had returned to the factory, the Miura from the film was prepared for delivery to its first owner, an Italian from Rome. After almost 50 years, and having passed through the hands of different enthusiasts, both Italian and international, the P400 was bought in 2018 by the current Liechtenstein collector, Fritz Kaiser, who is also the Founder of The Classic Car Trust. Lamborghini Polo Storico, inaugurated in 2015, is Automobili Lamborghinis department dedicated to preserving the heritage of the House of SantAgata Bolognese. Its activities include the restoration and certification of all Lamborghinis produced up to 2001, as well as the reconstruction of spare parts for classic Lamborghinis, for which more than 200 new code numbers were introduced in 2018 alone. Polo Storico also conserves and manages the company archives to support the preservation of all classic Lamborghini cars. You can check out the Lamborghini Miura P400, chassis #3586, in the opening scene of 1969s The Italian Job here. The post Lamborghini Polo Storico Discovers, Certifies Lamborghini Miura Used in 1969s The Italian Job appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. Malaysian police have held a media conference displaying the goods seized in a recent love scam syndicate bust they carried out earlier this month. Fourteen members of the gang, all residing in the Kuala Lumpur area, were arrested, and in the group, were two women. Suspects were aged between 30 and 40, and came from a series of West African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana and the Republic of Guinea. A senior Shah Alam police official described that among the seized goods were high-end computers and smartphones that were used to lure in their prey. The syndicate is said to have targeted senior citizen women via Facebook, often preying on widowed, lonely ladies. After wooing them via the site, they would ask for their WhatsApp contact information, and continue the relationship on that platform, eventually asking their victims to send them money. Some of the women reported that their paramours had promised them marriage. Authorities seized a Lexus, 16 laptops, 52 mobile phones, and RM30,000 (US$7,500) in cash in the bust. Between January and April of this year, seven separate police reports had been filed in cases that trace back to several love-scam syndicates, with a total loss of RM2 million (US$500,000) in cash. Police are alarmed at the sheer number of funds stolen, saying that it is far higher than last years loss of nearly RM900,000 (US$216,000), spread across 16 police reports. This article, Lonely hearts scam syndicate buster, 14 arrested, including two women, originally appeared on Coconuts, Asia's leading alternative media company. Want more Coconuts? Sign up for our newsletters! Animated GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY MANILA, Philippines The state weather bureau PAGASA is currently monitoring the movement of two low pressure areas (LPA) within the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) and another outside PAR. One is located about 195kph southwest of Sinait, Ilocos Sur which the agency expects to bring scattered rain showers and thunderstorms that may trigger floods and landslides. The agency, meanwhile, noted that the other LPA, spotted at a distance of 335 kilometers east of Aparri, Cagayan, will not yet directly affect any part of the country. Meanwhile, Pagasa said that the third LPA located at 1,120 kilometers east of Mindanao is also expected to enter PAR. The weather agency clarified, however, that there is slim chance that any of the three LPAs would develop into tropical cyclone. Despite occasional rains, there are still 17 areas across the country which are experiencing drought specifically areas in Bicol and Eastern Visayas. Marje Pelayo (with details from Rey Pelayo) The post PAGASA monitors three low pressure areas appeared first on UNTV News. FILE PHOTO: Governor of the Punjab Province Salman Taseer speaks to media after meeting with Asia Bibi, at a jail in Sheikhupura FILE PHOTO: Governor of the Punjab Province Salman Taseer is reflected as he speaks to the media after meeting with Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who has been sentenced to death for blasphemy, at a jail in Sheikhupura, located in Pakistan's Punjab Province November 20, 2010. REUTERS/Asad Karim/File Photo By Saad Sayeed ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row falsely charged with blasphemy has left the country, her lawyer and media said on Wednesday, more than six months after she was acquitted by Pakistan's top court. Asia Bibi's lawyer said he understood she had departed for Canada. Pakistani and Canadian officials have not officially commented on Bibi's reported departure, perhaps due to the sensitive nature of her case. Bibi's release in October sparked rioting by hardline Islamists, who rejected the Supreme Court's verdict and warned Prime Minister Imran Khan's government that she must not be allowed to leave the country. They also called for Bibi, who has been staying at an undisclosed location under tight security, to be killed. "I have inquired within available channels, and according to them she has left for Canada," Bibi's lawyer, Saif Ul Malook, told Reuters. Pakistani TV channels Geo and ARY, citing unidentified sources, also reported Bibi had left the country. Pakistan's foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. A Canadian government spokeswoman said in an emailed statement: "Global Affairs Canada has no comment." In November, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country was in talks with Pakistan about helping Bibi, whose family are believed to be outside Pakistan. She is widely expected to seek asylum and diplomats say she will have no problems. A statement from the U.S. State Department said it "welcomes the news that Asia Bibi has safely reunited with her family." "Asia Bibi is now free, and we wish her and her family all the best following their reunification. The United States uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, as they jeopardize the exercise of fundamental freedoms," the statement said. Pakistan's Supreme Court in January upheld its earlier verdict to free Bibi, but Pakistani officials have worried that her sudden departure could trigger further riots. Story continues Islamists have criticising the government and the military for caving in to what they call pressure from the Western world. Bibi, a farm worker and a mother of four, was convicted in 2010 of making derogatory remarks about Islam after neighbours working in the fields with her objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and has been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help her were assassinated, including Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, shot by his own bodyguard. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said it was "fantastic news that Asia Bibi appears to have left Pakistan safely." Hunt, who was due to discuss persecution of Christians with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, head of the Church of England, tweeted that Bibi's freedom "shows that with concerted effort the right thing can happen." (Additional reporting by Syed Raza Hassan in Islamabad and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Writing by Drazen Jorgic; Editing by Nick Macfie and Jonathan Oatis) Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo presented the new matrix of alleged conspiracy between the Liberal Party, the Magdalo group and other organizations seeking to oust President Rodrigo Duterte. MANILA, Philippines Malacanang on Wednesday presented a new diagram showing the alleged conspiracy between the Liberal Party, the Magdalo group and other organizations to oust President Rodrigo Duterte ahead of the May 13 elections. At a press conference, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the President received intelligence information that shows the Liberal party, the yellows, Magdalo group and some media outfits are in cahoots to discredit the Duterte administration. The conspiracy, Panelo said, is also aimed at boosting the candidacy of opposition senatorial slate Otso Diretso. The Office of the President, the President himself has received information, intelligence information that has been validated and appears to show that there is a deliberate attempt to discredit this administration, as well as to boost the candidacies of the oppositions senatorial candidates, he said. It appears that there are certain groups who are working together to achieve this goal. This group appears to be the Liberal Party some personalities identified as advocates or very active in social media dishing out anti-Duterte statements and sentiments, and validated to be allied with the Liberal Party; also working together with groups indicated in the matrix presented to you the other week. Thats it, he added. Panelo tagged in the supposed conspiracy several known members of the Liberal Party and their supporters; some journalists critical of the Duterte government and Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Joma Sison. Now, there has been an analysis made and it appears now that there [are] multi-noble relationships of these different vectors from Ellen Tordesillas particularly on her online activities, he said. The activities revealed a very active collaboration between the groups of Edwin Lacierda, who is identified with the Liberal Party; Kokoy Dayao, Joma Sison, Antonio Trillanes, Rodel Jayme, Bong Banal, Hamad Fontejos and other Liberal Party groups and supporters, he added. Story continues The Palace official also said that a certain Bong Banal, and not Peter Joemel Advincula, was the narrator in the Bikoy video series which linked President Dutertes family members and associated to the narcotics trade. Panelo said Banal is an artist and photojournalist who provided visual presentations and images for various black propaganda against the government. It appears now in that video that it was Bong Banal who was the narrator. And Bong Banal is supposed to be kind of expert in basta tungkol sa mga IT, and a known advocate of the Liberal Party, he said. Advincula earlier claimed he was hooded figure called Bikoy in the video series when he surfaced at the Integrated Bar of the Philippines on Monday. The presidential spokesman did not say where the intelligence information came from but only assured reporters that it has been validated. Panelo said it is now up to the Department of Justice, the Philippine National Police and other concerned government agencies to gather enough evidence and take legal action against the mentioned personalities. Tingnan natin, kung yung ginagawa nila ay black propaganda. Ibig sabihin, libelous. The moment the PNP and other law enforcement agencies have sufficient evidence, strong enough, ipa-file na ang kaso laban sa kanilang lahat, he said. (with reports from Rosalie Coz) The post Palace shows new diagram on Magdalo, Liberal party conspiracy to oust Duterte appeared first on UNTV News. PNP officials inspect over 300 firearms seized from unauthorized security agencies in Metro Manila MANILA, Philippines The Philippine National Police (PNP) has recovered a total of 331 firearms from security agencies in Metro Manila issued with Cease to Operate (CTO) order. The PNP Civil Security Group-Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (CSG-SOSIA) presented to media on Wednesday (May 8) 250 firearms from involved security agencies, while 81 were recovered during the conduct of post to post inspection in the duration of the election period from January 13 to present. The firearms recovered include: (55) 12 GA Shotgun (39) 9mm pistol (222) .38 caliber (10) Super .38 caliber (1) caliber 380 (2) CAL .32 (2) Mac Intretac The security guards involved were also issued with violation ticket report. The confiscation and issuance of VTR stemmed from the agencies lack of license to exercise the security profession of security guards. The crackdown on unauthorized security agencies is in line with PNP Chief Oscar Albayaldes directive to SOSIA to revisit the hiring process of security guards and intensify the conduct of post to post inspection. This, after the arrest of an alleged Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member wanted for kidnapping and serious illegal detention who posed as security guard in Muntinlupa City. Since the start of the election period, the PNP has recovered a total of 1,257 firearms from unauthorized security agencies that violated the CTO order and through the post to post inspections of police authorities across the country. Marje Pelayo (with details from Rey Pelayo) The post PNP recovers over 300 firearms from unauthorized security agencies appeared first on UNTV News. Photo: BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images Last year, the New York Times found that Trump had inherited more than $400 million from his father, largely through a series of illegal schemes. Now, in a new report, the Times has discovered that, from 1985 through 1994, Trump businesses suffered losses of more than $1 billion. Its hardly a mystery why Trump is desperate to keep his tax returns secret. The most innocent narrative they might possibly reveal is that hes a horrible businessman who relied on handouts from his father. The question is why anybody else would buy this story. Perhaps the most explosive finding in Robert Muellers investigation is that Trump was secretly negotiating a building deal in Moscow that promised profits of several hundred million dollars, with no risk. Russia habitually gives out sweetheart deals to its overseas political partners, structured in the form of putatively legitimate investments that disguise simple bribes. George Sorial, the current executive vice-president of the Trump Organization, dismisses that deal in a Wall Street Journal op-ed as a fantasy that no one in the office took seriously. (Sorial does not explain why, or even mention that, Trump signed a letter of intent for this project if nobody took it seriously.) What the Times reporting underscores is how utterly vulnerable Trump must have been to an offer like this. The Times information covers only one (very bad) period in Trumps life, and he did recover by learning how to profit off his image as a successful businessman by renting out his name. Still, theres little reason to think he stopped being a horrible capitalist. Year after year, the Times finds, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer. Keeping Trumps tax returns private is not like keeping Mitt Romneys tax returns private. This is a man who was handed hundreds of millions of dollars, flushed it down the toilet, and was desperate to maintain his image of wealth and success. You couldnt invent a more inviting target for a foreign intelligence service to manipulate. Republicans have, incredibly, treated the question of obtaining Trumps tax returns as a pure political vendetta. Democrats dislike him with a passion, and they want his tax returns to destroy him, said Senate Finance Committee chairman Charles Grassley. Thats all that this whole process is about, and its Nixonian to the core. Theres no public interest in discovering who is paying the mobbed-up, money-hemorrhaging failed casino operator whose sons have described him as reliant on Russian financing? Do Republicans believe Trumps financial secrets contain no signs of serious corruption or vulnerability to leverage by a hostile power? Or would they rather not know? A Family Court judge has dismissed a Vietnamese woman's claim for maintenance from her son's Italian father, who had been paying her 1,200 a year and did not know that she would relocate to Singapore. (Photo: Getty Images) SINGAPORE He was on a business trip to Kuala Lumpur in 2011 when he got into a dalliance with a Vietnamese woman. She got pregnant with their child later that year and gave birth the next year. The Italian man gave her money intermittently. But in July last year, the man, who had since married another woman, bumped into his former lover at a supermarket in Singapore. He had just relocated here for work and, unbeknownst to him, she too had relocated here with their 6-year-old son. She requested for more money for their child but he refused. She then took him to court, alleging that he had failed to maintain their child for five years and sought $3,500 monthly. But Family Court judge Sheik Mustafa last week dismissed the womans application, saying she had failed to prove that the man had neglected or refused to provide reasonable maintenance for their son. In grounds of decision published on Tuesday (7 May), the judge said the woman had not shown why it was necessary or in the childs best interest to relocate to Singapore. She also had the means to maintain the child in Singapore without the mans contribution, the judge found. The woman, who is on a long-term visit pass, is appealing against the judgment. Changed mind about abortion The man first met the woman in Kuala Lumpur in 2011. Over two more occasions that year, he returned to the Malaysian capital and met his lover. After the woman told the man that she was pregnant in 2011, they discussed the matter over Skype and she agreed to abort the foetus. He sent her some money for the procedure. However, she told him a few days later that she had changed her mind. She was apparently emotional and threatened to jump off a building. The man said he then sent her money several times afterwards. The woman gave birth to the baby in Vietnam, and she invited him to visit her and the child in a village near Hanoi. He saw her in September 2012 and gave her some money before going back to Italy. Story continues She continued to ask him for money and he gave her 5,404.50 ($8,239) between June and December 2012. Asked for cash for house renovation, apartment A few months later, the mans employer relocated him to Kuala Lumpur for work. He invited the woman to visit him with their child. But the couple could not get along and the visit was cut short after two days. The woman asked for RM15,000 ($4,921) to renovate her house in Vietnam and to start her own business so that she could support the child alone. The man agreed and offered to transfer the funds, but the woman insisted on cash. He could only raise RM10,000 and gave her the money. She apparently told him that she would never ask for money again. The woman invited the man to visit their child in Vietnam on his first birthday. He brought gifts for both the woman and the baby. He also told her that he had entered into a relationship with someone he wanted to marry. She indicated that she understood, and it was the last time they saw each other. A month later, however, the woman contacted the man to ask for money to buy an apartment. He transferred her some cash. In early 2014, the woman also asked for money to buy insurance in which the child would receive the entire pay out when he reaches 18 years old. The man agreed to pay 1,200 a year. In December 2014 and February 2015, the woman requested for money to complete the construction of her house. He transferred 1,850 in total. Bumped into each other at supermarket The man later got married and moved to Singapore with his wife in June last year. Meanwhile, the woman had moved to Singapore with their child in May 2017. In July last year, while at a supermarket at Scotts Square, the man was shocked to bump into the woman. She hadnt inform him that she would relocate here with their child. The man asked that the woman not tell his wife about the matter; his wife did not know that he had a child. The woman said she had sold her house in Vietnam and the child was schooling here and that it was hard for them financially. Later, the man and woman communicated via email. He thanked her for not informing his wife about their prior relationship. She emailed back to ask for an additional $2,500 a month, threatening to take him to court if he didnt accept it. She also said she knew where he worked. The man counter-proposed to pay $2,000 a month, but she refused. He then asked for an itemised list of expenses for the child, and got one which added up to $3,422. But the man was uncomfortable with her insistence in drafting an agreement to allow her to increase maintenance in future, including the cost of the childs university education. After discussing the matter with his wife, the man decided to seek legal advice. No reason for woman to relocate: Judge The womans case was that she relocated with the child to Singapore as the educational standards here were better than in Vietnam. She was here on a visit pass and was not allowed to work. And the child was enrolled in an international school. Meanwhile, the man said there was no reason for the woman to have moved to Singapore, and that he ought only to be bound by the maintenance that he and the woman had agreed upon. He said he had sent a total equivalent of $42,986.40 since the child was born. Although the woman said she was surviving on her savings, she did not reveal to the court what her savings were, or how she was using them. The judge drew the inference that if the woman had disclosed her bank account statements, they would have revealed that she was not as financially hard put as she claimed to be. The judge also found her expenditure far from frugal. The woman stated in the application form for the childs school that her address was a house in Draycott Drive. The registration fee for the international school was $2,945.71 while the fees were $4,201.89. A scrutiny of the numerous supermarket receipts she tendered do not evidence a frugal lifestyle of one who was in financial tightness and who had no legal source of income, said the judge. A reasonable person would not have relocated to Singapore from Vietnam without adequate means to support herself and the child since she was not expecting any contribution from the (man) more than the 1,200 he was already furnishing. I found that on a balance of probabilities, the (woman) must have either had sufficient funds herself to finance the relocation and education of the child in Singapore, or she had access to such funds to do so, the judge added. More Singapore stories: Corrective Work Orders rose 30% to 2,600 cases in 2018: NEA 7 pollution incidents along Johor river have caused PUB plant's temporary shutdown since 2017: Masagos IMDA launches public consultation on 5G network rollout Hospital doctor fined $7k for forging his own MCs due to depression from break-up 83% of Singaporeans prefer independent body to assess online falsehoods: survey Suzuki Motorcyclesa division of Suzuki Philippines Incorporatedremains to be one of the top four Japanese motorcycle brands in the country. This after finishing strong in the first quarter of the year. Based on the data of the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA), Suzuki motorcycles had a 36-percent increase in sales for the first three months of the year. This is after the brands first quarter sales records in 2018, Suzuki showed an eight-percent increase in sales from 2017. Suzuki, which will be celebrating its 100th year in 2020, now holds a 13-percent of the total market share in the country, growing by two percent as compared to last years. The stellar performance is attributed to the brands sales achievement in the Underbone and Scooter categories as a by-product of the brands integrated sales, marketing, and brand communication strategies. The records affirmed Suzuki as now the most preferred Underbone maker in the Philippines, with a 45-percent market share in the said category, due to the steadfast domination of the Underbone King, the Suzuki Raider R150, and the No. 1 Selling Underbone Motorcycle in the Country (Underbone Leisure Category), the Suzuki Smash. Aside from that, the Suzuki Skydrive Sport, which was launched last year, was instrumental for the Japanese giants growth of 357 percent in the Scooter category. In a statement, Suzuki Philippines Incorporated, which is also one of the top performing markets among all Suzuki motorcycles subsidiaries in the world, is eyeing for a bright and optimistic 2019. The post Suzuki Remains Among Top 4 Japanese Motorcycle Brands in PH appeared first on Carmudi Philippines. Hong Kongs oldest university is investigating allegations of sexual harassment after a postgraduate from its dental faculty spoke out against her tutor on social media. On Sunday, a user named L from Malaysia posted a long article on Facebook about how she was harassed by a part-time tutor at Prince Philip Dental Hospital under the University of Hong Kong, when she was doing a postgraduate programme at the faculty from 2015 to 2018. In response to an inquiry by the Post, an HKU spokeswoman said on Tuesday afternoon: We are aware of the allegations and are dealing with it as a matter of priority in accordance with due procedure and established practice. We are aware of the allegations and are dealing with it as a matter of priority in accordance with due procedure and established practice HKU According to Ls accounts, the tutor had made inappropriate physical contact with her. She claimed she was also verbally harassed. This went on repeatedly in the first two years of her studies there, and the gestures included touching her arm, shoulder and back, leering at her chest and placing a red packet on her arm with its edge poking her chest, L said in her post. The woman also claimed the tutor had once told her: Who told you to look for single men? You could always find married men. He was talking to her about pursuing rich men. L stated that she went through a period of self-blame instead of telling the man to stop, and all the while, she felt infuriated and devastated. She said while some peers and nurses supported her in filing a report, she was also warned by others that the tutor had the power to make her life a living hell if she spoke up. L said she later reported the case to the course director and the tutor was removed from teaching her. But she complained that no staff had followed up with her on how she was coping with the incident, and the man in question was later rehired. Story continues L wrote that although she was in contact with the head of the HKU Equal Opportunities Unit about her complaint, she had never been approached by the faculty for any statement on the incidents. After much deliberation, I am putting this on social media, hoping to create awareness about sexual harassment, be it at the workplace or teaching institutions, L wrote. I am not taking revenge (this is not a witch hunt) for what happened to me, but to let him back into the faculty after I have left, to jeopardise the safety of other female students, shows how lightly HKU has taken this matter. The post got more than 700 likes and 170 shares by Tuesday night with comments expressing support for her bravery. This article University of Hong Kong investigating sex harassment claims after postgraduate speaks out against tutor on Facebook first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2019. The best eats in America can be found in one of the countrys most historic cities. Sure, New York and Los Angeles have some good restaurants, but the best restaurant in the entire United States can be found right in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia restaurant, Zahav, focusing on traditional Israeli cuisine in a casual and modern atmosphere, has won the James Beard Award for outstanding restaurant, according to CNN. Alexandra Hawkins The James Beard Award is by far one of the most prestigious awards in the food industry, so you can safely assume that you can get a truly excellent meal at Zahav. According to Lancaster Online, the James Beard Foundation chose the restaurant due to its consistent excellence in food, atmosphere, service, and operations. The restaurant originally opened in 2008 in Philadelphias Society Hill neighborhood and has won other James Beard acclamations over the years, according to Lancaster Online, including Rising Star Chef of the Year for Chef Camille Cogswell in 2018 and Chef of the Year for Chef Michael Solomonov in 2017. Solomonov co-authored a cookbook, entitled "Zahav: A World of Israeli Cooking," which also won the James Beard award for Cookbook of the Year in 2016, according to the Philly Voice. Michael Perisco While many Philadelphia restaurants made it into the semi-finals this year, Zahav was the only one to come out with an award (but an important award nonetheless), according to the Philly Voice. Some other notable wins in other cities include Frenchette in New York City for Best New Restaurant, Greg Wade from Publican Quality Bread in Chicago won Outstanding Baker, Ashley Christensen from Pooles Diner in Raleigh, North Carolina won Outstanding Chef, and Bar Agricole in San Francisco won Outstanding Bar Program, according to Forbes. Michael Perisco Philadelphias food scene has been blossoming in recent years, with plenty of amazing places to eat ranging from casual sandwich places to fancy brunch spots. Some pranks are just worth the extra effort. Bridie Connell and her dad have had a bit of a prank war going on for the last 15 years. The pranks consist of one person saying pinch and a punch, first day of the month, before the other one can say it, followed by a light pinch and punch. She explains her war on Twitter. Right. So my dad and I are both very competitive/stubborn. We have been locked in a battle of pinch and a punch, first day of the month for years. 15 years, to be exact. Neither of us remember how it started. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 Its a little like jinx, only you dont have to call it out when you accidentally say the same thing at the same time as the other person. And no one has to say completely silent until they buy the other person a Coke. Connell wrote on Twitter that, usually, the prank war is pretty tame, though it can sometimes escalate quickly. Most months its pretty low key, but every so often one of us ups the ante. When I was 14, I was pulled out of school and sent to the principals office. I thought I was in trouble. I arrived to find my dad waiting, ready to deliver the blow. Pinch and a punch! Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 Once, I organised musicians to serenade him. Hes pranked me on live radio. Ive got a tour guide to say the magic words in the middle of a holiday tour. Hes used my friends against me. Its happened in a live poetry reading. Its happened at a funeral. It ruins New Years Eve. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 According to the New Zealand Herald, this little war had yet another battle that played out on Connells Air New Zealand flight on May 1. Story continues Connell was flying to New Zealand from Melbourne, Australia for her cousins birthday. Naturally, it being the first of the month, Connell planned on serving up another pinch and punch prank to her dad before she left, but decided it was a little too early to call her parents house before her flight. Instead, she decided she was going to call out a pinch and punch when she landed, according to the New Zealand Herald. Today is the 1st of May. First of the month!Im flying home to NZ for my cousins birthday. It was an early flight - too early to call dad before I took off. Itll have to wait, I thought as I settled into my seat. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 Big mistake. As Connell sat down for her flight, a flight attendant handed her a folded letter. Inside, lo and behold, was an epic pinch and punch from her father, hand delivered. And then a staff member comes over to my seat. Are you Bridie? Yes... Im Beau. Nice to meet you. Omg its finally happening, the moment I have been dreaming of for years. Im going to be UPGRADED, baby!! I have a special delivery for you, Bridie. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 Her father wrote a note saying, I cant wait to see you, and I know youre going to be very thrilled and excited when you see me! By the way, whilst I remember Pinch and a punch for the first of the month! No returns! The no returns, is kind of like a no backsies rule. It basically means she cant pinch and punch him back. Well played, Dad. But perhaps the most frustrating part is that the phones had to be turned off for the flights take off. What a cruel fate. But Connell had to be impressed with her dads forethought. Beau hands me a letter. I open it. I silently scream. Its not an upgrade. Beau grins and shakes my hand. Hands me his card. And just remember you cant call your dad, phones have to be in flight mode from ... now. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 I have to hand it to my dad, and to Air Nz. And Beau, the most hilarious and lovely man. I am SO annoyed but also SO impressed. And the worst part is tonight Ill have to sit through a family dinner with everyone telling and retelling this story and dad being all smug. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 She spent the last three hours of the flight plotting her revenge. Its unclear what she had in store for dear old dad. Ive just spent three hours on a flight plotting my revenge (on dad and Beau). Submissions welcome. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 Luckily for Connell, the prank wasnt all bad. Air New Zealand also upgraded her seat to premium economy (probably out of guilt, she said). UPDATE: turns out the upgrade to premium economy was from @FlyAirNZ who felt ever so slightly guilty for helping papa prank me Im blessed Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 @FlyAirNZ Air NZ, my favourite airline. Got moved to a seat with more legroom. Premium economy, winning! Free chocolate. Hooray! ... And then. Bridie Connell (@BridieKConnell) May 1, 2019 Air New Zealand isnt the only company in the travel industry that enjoys a good prank. Southwest also managed to out-wit a troll on Twitter back in 2017. Not what youd call a peacenik. Photo: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images Benjamin Hart and Intelligencer writer Heather Hurlburt discuss the rising tensions between two longtime adversaries and whether war is on the horizon. Ben: Tensions with Iran have ratcheted up to their highest level in a long time, as the U.S. tightens its vise around the country. A year after President Trump terminated American involvement with the Iran nuclear deal even though Iran was fully cooperating with it severe American sanctions have taken a major toll on the Iranian economy. This week, Iran said it will stop complying with some sections of the agreement. The announcement came days after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo sent warships to Irans coast in response to an unspecified threat to American interests, then skipped a meeting with Angela Merkel to go to Iraq and attend to this supposed threat. How likely do you think it is that all this saber-rattling will lead to a violent conflict in the near term? Heather: Some of the commentary on this has been very breathless. Ben: Im happy to be disabused of my fears on this one. Heather: My worries are first, that anytime you put U.S. and Iranian forces in closer proximity, the risk of mishap or misunderstanding leading to conflict rises. So thats real. Its also important to stress that the Pentagon is not anxious to get into a shooting war with Iran. National-security adviser John Bolton and even H.R. McMaster before him were frustrated with the Pentagons desire to cool tensions with Tehran, and even stay in the Iran deal. So the fear is real but not inevitable. The second worry is what the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, IRGC, does in retaliation for being named a terrorist group by the U.S. They could target U.S. forces. But they could also target Saudis or Israelis, and then Saudis or Israelis would potentially pull us in. Ben: Saudi Arabia is Irans chief geopolitical rival. Israel is no fan of the country either. But are either of these countries or anyone else in the region actually rooting for a violent conflict here? Or would they prefer the maximum-pressure campaign already under way? Heather: Israel definitely not it has all it can handle right now between the escalating fight with Hamas and Netanyahus legal woes. I do not pretend to know what MBS, the prince who is leading Saudi foreign affairs, thinks, though he has much higher risk tolerance than prior Saudi leaders. Iranian hard-liners and their various proxy forces would actually prefer war theyd benefit from increased tensions. So playing into their hands is worrying. Ben: How would it benefit the hard-liners, exactly? Theyve been saying that the Iran deal was a terrible miscalculation from the beginning, so all this American aggression is a validation of their philosophy. But wouldnt a war also be ruinous for the country even more so than the sanctions are? Heather: As they control the guns, even more power would flow to them, which in their calculations outweighs the harm that would befall the Iranian people. This is not unique to Iranian hard-liners by any means. Ben: If America did want to strike Iran or its interests, what form would that be most likely to take? Would it be more likely a hit on Iran itself, or attacks on proxy forces in Syria or Iraq or elsewhere? Heather: Keep in mind that you already have Israel regularly bombing Iranian proxies in Syria, and Saudis going after Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen. They are perceived as U.S. proxy attacks whether Washington knows about/green-lights them or not. So you could have a step up in intensity there and that is likely if more reports of Iranian missiles heading toward Yemen, or higher-grade material going toward the Syria-Israel border, surface. The Pentagon will not want to just go after Iranian forces unless in response to a direct attack. Ben: But will they be able to fend off the White House if Bolton, a notorious interventionist, convinces the president that taking action is a good idea? Heather: I think the most likely scenarios are either misperception or IRGC provocation creates a situation where the Pentagon has to respond, or the U.S. or others use cyber or other unconventional methods. Ben: While President Trump has no clear foreign-policy philosophy to speak of, he has not seemed instinctively to want to begin wars just to threaten them. Do you think he may serve as a brake on his hawkish advisers more belligerent impulses? Heather: As I often say, I think Trump does have a consistent approach its a belief that threats and bluster work, that personalized authority is better than reliance on institutions, norms, and rules and that the first two items are the signs of the kind of manhood that underpins normative (white male) American culture. So its not his intention to use force. And hes not as in thrall to the cult of the good little war as some of his team. But the inherent small-c conservatism of the Pentagon really matters here too. Ben: Do you expect Europe to defy the U.S. any more than it already has to keep the Iran deal alive, or will they conclude that its not worth it to evoke even more American wrath? Heather: Both options are really bad for Europe. Either they are explicitly appeasing Iran or they are explicitly blowing off their treaty ally Washington. And given that Europe already tried to build a finance work-around but its not delivering much, Europe may be damned either way. Along with all of us. Ben: On that optimistic note, thanks for chatting. Heather: Youre welcome. Informed, sober pessimism is my specialty. Google Pixel 3a. (PHOTO: Google) SINGAPORE Google has released the new Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL at half the price of premium phones, to compete with Apple and Huawei, who are monopolising the market share. Design-wise, Pixel 3a fits snuggly in your hands and has an OLED display for viewing pleasure. For photobugs, the Pixel 3a uses Googles HDR+ technology with features such as Portrait Mode, Super Res Zoom, and Night Sight to capture clear shots in low light. Google Photos is built in, so you can save all your high-quality photos and videos with free, unlimited storage. It comes with an 18-watt charger so you get up to seven hours of battery life on a 15-minute charge and up to 30 hours on a full charge, and with the Google Assistant you can send texts, get directions, and set reminders - using only your voice. Google Pixel 3a family. (PHOTO: Google) The phone will be available in two colours - Just Black and Clearly White - and two sizes, in Singapore at S$659 for the 5.6-inch display and S$779 for the 6-inch model. Singaporeans are always on the lookout for a good and helpful smartphone to enhance the way they live, work and play. Following the positive response for the Pixel 3 during its launch in October last year, we are excited to extend the Pixel experience to even more people, working with our partners to offer the best of Googles features and functionality for a price considerably less than premium phones, said Martin Geh, Managing Director, APAC Hardware Partnerships at Google. To purchase the phone, head on to carrier partner Singtel, retailers COURTS and Challenger and the Google Store. Photo credit: Bill Clark - Getty Images From Esquire Lawyer up, Sluggo. From CNN. The Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr. for him to return and testify again, and the committee is now at a standoff with Trump's eldest son, according to sources familiar with the matter...During the negotiations, the idea to use written questions and answers was floated, and at another time it was proposed that Trump Jr. sit for an untranscribed interview, according to one source. Trump Jr.'s position hardened after the report was released. The report stated that the special counsel's team explored charging Trump Jr. and other campaign officials with campaign finance violations for the meeting they took with a Russian lawyer offering dirt on Hillary Clinton in 2016 but ultimately declined because they could not place a value on the materials offered and could not establish Trump Jr. knew he was violating the law. Mueller's team also did not establish that there was a conspiracy between Russians and members of the Trump campaign, which Trump allies have used to embolden their position that the investigation was a "witch hunt." The chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee is Richard Burr, Republican of North Carolina, which makes this a very interesting decision. For months, it was conventional wisdom in Washington that, no matter how awful Devin Nunes was at chairing the House Intelligence Committee, Burr and his Democratic counterpart, Mark Warner of Virginia, were running a pretty straight operation. Then it was revealed in Robert Mueller's report that Burr had been debriefing the folks down at Camp Runamuck, which dinged Burr's halo pretty hard. Again, from CNN: "The week after Comey's briefing, the White House Counsel's Office was in contact with (Senate Intelligence Committee) Chairman Senator Richard Burr about the Russia investigations and appears to have received information about the status of the FBI investigation," the report states. Story continues In a footnote, the report states that the White House counsel's office was briefed by Burr, a North Carolina Republican, on the "existence of 4-5 targets,'" citing notes from former deputy White House Counsel Annie Donaldson. The notes included references to former national security adviser Michael Flynn, former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, an individual whose identity was redacted due to an ongoing investigation, and "Greek Guy," which is likely George Papadopoulos - although the footnote also notes that the Intelligence Committee "does not formally investigate individuals as 'targets.'" It's not being entirely cynical to suggest that Burr might have needed to restore some of his previous reputation for fair-mindedness. For whatever reason, the midway is getting awfully crowded with attractions this season. Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page here. ('You Might Also Like',) Donghae and Eunhyuk brought their 'Dangerous' side to Malaysia last weekend. 8 May Grinning wide while waving wildly to their Malaysian ELF, the dynamic duo of Super Junior subunit D&E said that they were happy to find out Malaysia was the first stop of the Asian leg of their solo concert tour. "Super Junior D&E Concert [The D&E] in Kuala Lumpur", held last Saturday at Stadium Malawati, Shah Alam, saw Lee Dong-hae and Lee Hyuk-jae, who otherwise go by Donghae and Eunhyuk, holding a concert for the first time in the country without their fellow Super Junior members. With the duo feeding off each other's energy, however, the 86-liners had no issue keeping everyone entertained for the whole 2 hours and 30 minutes duration of the concert. Malaysian ELF were no doubt ecstatic to see the "Oppa, Oppa" duo, as not only was it their first solo concert in the country, the fans who attended it were also the first oversea crowd of fans to see the songs off their new third mini album "Danger" (released just three weeks before the concert in Malaysia) performed live. Of course, they performed the title track "Danger", along with "Jungle", "Gloomy" and the Korean version of "Sunrise". The stage setup for this tour has a minimalist touch but with each concert, Donghae and Eunhyuk never failed to entertain (Photo source: MIC Entertainment). Being just the two of them, the setup of their stage was less extravagant as compared to Super Junior's "Super Show" concerts. The only big props the duo used were the motorised scooters during "Motorcycle", and the various beach props like chairs, plastic palm trees and surfboards to emulate a beach party feel onstage during a couple of the songs (there was even ramen cooking in pots, which the duo happily took a big bite from while singing). Still, they used the big stage well, even going down the ramps on the sides of the stage to get closer to the Rock Zone fans once while zooming around on their 'motorcycles' and another while shooting water guns into the crowd. When staying put just on the main part of the stage, they would most of the time be joined by their dancers. Story continues The concert also had one of the more impressive lighting setups, which really helped with boosting the overall atmosphere with minimal use of props. The cheeky duo strikes again! (Photo source: MIC Entertainment). Well known for their cheekiness, both demonstrated this well by occasionally "battling" each other in their performances. But the highlight of their cheeky moment was definitely when they called out to a fan (whom they spotted leaving her seat while they were talking) and told her to go back to her seat. They jokingly reprimanded her until she sat back down while covering her face (poor girl must be dying of both embarrassment and happiness to be noticed by the duo). "Please don't leave," Eunhyuk said in Korean while Donghae added in Mandarin, "You guys can't go home today". Eunhyuk spoke in Korean throughout the concert, with a translator translating into English for him, because as he joked in the beginning after hearing fans responding to him, "I actually studied Malay to talk to you guys but since your Korean is so good, I'll just stick to Korean." Donghae, on the other hand, took the chance to show off his English, Cantonese and Mandarin skills, never giving up even though sometimes he'd be asking, "Was that correct? You can't understand it? Never mind!" Going from serious and dramatic to cheerful and fun, the concert was exactly what fans have been waiting for. Wrapping up with three songs as their encore, the duo bid fans farewell with the promise to return next time with the rest of their Super Junior members. Photo credit: Netflix From Esquire In August 1975, Ted Bundy ran a couple of stop signs and was arrested for the first time. It was an anti-climactic beginning of the end for Bundy, who at this point had gotten away with multiple murders. But the arrest in Utah was a key-if not the key-step in ultimately bringing down Bundy. The cop who arrested Bundy, Bob Hayward, acted on a hunch that evading police wasn't all Bundy was up to. And in the end, after finding a bag with pantyhose, a crowbar, and other suspicious paraphernalia, Hayward's hunch wound up being one of the first nails in Bundy's coffin. In Netflix's new biopic, Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil, and Vile, starring Zac Efron as Bundy, the Hayward arrest scene is brief, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Does the guy playing Hayward look familiar? That's because it's Metallica frontman James Hetfield, who assumed the role for the film. So how did a rock god get a role in one of Netflix's biggest releases in recent years? Let's dive in. How did Hetfield end up getting the role? There's a Netflix connection in it all. Extremely Wicked director Joe Berlinger also co-directed Netflix's Metallica doc Some Kind of Monster. He told Revolver how he ended up crossing Hetfield over into his latest project. "The whole reason this came up was that I was at Lars [Ulrich's] wedding, so I hung out with James, and he was thinking about doing some voiceover work. I said to him at the wedding that he has such a commanding voice, that I thought that translated into voiceover work and also he would be a really interesting actor because of that presence. This was about four years ago, before I knew I was doing this movie. "So when this movie came along, what inspired me to reach out to him is that when you look at a photograph of officer Bob Hayward, a Utah patrolman who pulled Ted Bundy over when he ran a stop sign in a suburb, Hetfield looked like a better looking, more in-shape version of him." Story continues Photo credit: Getty Images What scene was he in? Hetfield's scene is brief, but important. In the movie, his Officer Hayward pulls over Bundy after Bundy ran a couple of stop signs, abruptly arresting him after just checking his ID. In real life, Hayward took a wrong turn and came upon Bundy's Volkswagen sitting outside of a house he knew to be occupied by unsupervised teenage girls (he knew the parents). When Bundy fled, that's when Hayward pulled him over in a gas station, reportedly questioning him at gun point before searching his car and finding the paraphernalia. How'd he do? Hetfield's performance was lauded by his co-stars. Zac Efron said Hetfield "nailed it" while talking about it on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. He comes on the set, and its one of the more pivotal moments. Its the moment that Ted actually got caught for the first time-he ran a stop sign. And James Hetfield plays the policeman that picks him up. And James Hetfield, to his credit, and absolutely nailed the part, he just crushed it. Its like hes been acting his own life. He had no fear. He did a great job. I was ready to maybe give James Hetfield [an acting] tip, but he didnt ask for a single one. James Hetfield is the shit! ('You Might Also Like',) Photo credit: Brian Douglas - Netflix From Esquire In the Netflix movie Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile, Ted Bundy tells his longtime girlfriend Liz Kendall about how a book he's been reading in prison has given him hope. At that point in the movie, Bundy (played by Zac Efron) insists he is innocent, and he says the book Papillon inspires him that one day he will get out of his jail cell. "I wanted to tell you about this book, have you ever heard of Papillon? It's about this guy whose been terribly convicted of a horrible, horrible crime and he gets sentenced to life, but he didn't do it!" the Bundy character says. "He obsesses over the day he'll be free again and spends years hatching escapes, getting caught, punished, beaten, betrayed. But he never loses hope. And that's my wish for us, Liz. That we never give up hope." Photo credit: Getty Images When his girlfriend comes to visit him for the first time right before Christmas, Bundy gives her a copy of the book. "I've read it four times. You remember what it's about, right?" he says. "Never lose hope." The book is a perfectly symbolic tool for the film, which portrayed Bundy's multiple real-life escapes from prisons before he finally landed on death row, where he admitted to killing at least 30 women. However, in Kendall's memoir, on which the movie is based, she makes no mention of Papillon. Papillon has a fascinating backstory, though, so it makes sense the filmmakers would use it for foreshadowing. The bestselling book was written by French prisoner Henri Charriere, who was nicknamed "Papillon", the french word for butterfly, for a tattoo on his chest. Charriere was held in a Caribbean prison after he says he was framed for the 1931 murder of another criminal named Roland Legrand. After years of escape attempts, French authorities sent Charriere to Cayenne, a penal colony in French Guyana often known as Devil's Island. As the writer tells it, he finally escaped from the brutal conditions in 1941 by jumping into the ocean with a makeshift raft of coconuts. Narrowly escaping a deadly shark attack, he sailed to Venezuela to freedom, according to a summary in The New European. Charriere was able to start over again in South America before dying in 1973 of throat cancer, according to the New York Times: Story continues He found refuge in Venezuela, worked as a gold digger, oil prospector and pearl merchant and did other odd jobs before settling down in Caracas, marrying, opening a restaurant and becoming a pros perous Venezuelan citizen ... At the age of 62 he stumbled on the novels of Albertine Sarrazin, a former prostitute and jailbird, and, spurred by her literary good fortune, decided to describe his own tribulations. In a few months, he filled 13 copybooks with his autobiography and sent it to a Parisian publisher, who became enthusiastic about the manuscript. The story, which was published in France in 1963, is action packed and harrowing, which led to the sale of 5 million books in 16 languages and two movies based on the story. In 1970, Charriere's murder conviction was stricken from his record, and he wrote a sequel to Papillon called Banco about his post-escape life. But the tale has been much disputed since it was published. Charriere himself admitted the book was "only 75% true," according to The New European. And in 1970, a French journalist wrote a book called The Four Truths of Papillon to debunk most of Charriere's account. In spite of the controversy, the book was made into a film by the same name in 1973. Steve McQueen played Charriere and Dustin Hoffman played another prisoner named Louis Dega, and the film was one of the most expensive of its time thanks to massive salaries demanded by the two actors. In 2017, the movie was remade with Charlie Hunnam as Charriere and Rami Malek as Dega. Decades after the original book came out, the story continued to unravel in 2005, when a 104-year-old inmate Charles Brunier claimed he was the model for the book. "When Mr Brunier recounts his memories, he says he was detained with Henri Charriere and is adamant that Charriere stole his story," the director of the retirement home in which Brunier was living told The Telegraph. The new Ted Bundy movie has reignited interest in Papillon, according to data from Google Trends. Though the narrative may have been exaggerated-or even a completely different inmate's story-the takeaway from the book remains an important one. As a 2005 story in The Atlantic points out: "Today if you watch Papillon-for the first or the 100th time-you are immediately struck by the similarities between the way French colonial authorities mistreated prisoners a century ago and the way U.S. authorities, on both the state and federal level, mistreat inmates in our own time. In fact, tragically, you can make a reasonable argument that American prisoners today in many respects are treated worse than were the prisoners highlighted in the movie. What a long, strange descent into brutality it's been." ('You Might Also Like',) As remote working continues to surge in popularity, so too does the concept of the workcation. But what is it, and more importantly, should you take one? Well, a workcation is basically a productive vacation or a working holiday, and there are several ways in which you can introduce one into your life. Some 9-to-5ers manage to persuade their boss to let them work remotely for a week or so all without draining their vacation days. The idea is that you can enjoy a boost in productivity by simply swapping your cubicle for say, a tropical paradise like Costa Rica. Dont get me wrong, Im a huge advocate of taking a full-fledged, phone-off, feet-up kind of trip. But if your boss is on board with you having a change of scenery to inspire your work flow, why not switch it up and save your holiday time in the process? Related: How to Quit Your Job and Travel the World, According to People Who Have Done It Workcations are also popular with entrepreneurs and digital nomads. Want to write that novel, learn new skills, or brush up on your business plan? There are experiences that offer a hybrid of independent work time and inspiring talks from leading professionals. Community bonding and skill-sharing is often at the heart of all workcation trips, as I found with my workcations at Sun & Co and Las Morenas, in Spain. Of course, once youre there, you need to adopt a few techniques to ensure maximum productivity. Choose your spot wisely because this will undoubtedly affect how you work. Super-fast Wi-Fi and cool living quarters are a given, but remember that many companies are of no fixed abode and change their country of residence every few months. If your favorite group is heading to Medellin or Bali, but you know that late-night salsa or mosquito-laden beaches are going to result in major distractions, maybe pick another spot. Spencer Jentzsch, the CEO of Hacker Paradise, founded in 2014, told me that people are attracted to this new and improved work-life balance. We were the first remote work and travel program in the world, and we are seeing more people becoming disenfranchised with traditional employment incentives and acquiring material goods. We want to break conventions, he said. Story continues In addition to the engineers, designers, entrepreneurs, and writers, we also have nurses, inventors, NGO founders, ethical hackers, real estate developers, lawyers, and many others come join us. With all the technology of today there is no need to be rooted down in one location. You dont have to delay living your best life until you retire. Workcations are as flexible and practical as you want them to be. And with a little research, you can find one to suit you and your skillset at pretty much any time of the year. Here are a few ideas to get you started. 1. Roam One of the biggest names on the remote working scene, Roam was founded in 2015 and continues to offer a high-end, international network of coliving spaces. Booking is easy you just head to the site, and Roam currently offers accommodation in several U.S. locations as well as London, Tokyo, and Ubud. The company prides itself on providing a modern experience with mega-fast Wi-Fi, and prices start from just $500 per week for private accomodation with an en-suite. There are no reservation or membership fees, and Roam provides a handful of shared amenities, but theres less of a focus on community activities compared to some other workcation companies. Best suited for the stylish digital nomad who wants to globe-trot from one boutique workspace to another, a workcation with Roam will most likely leave you longing for a permanent residence. 2. Las Morenas de Espana Working holidays are as much about the vibe as the tribe, and on this incredible retreat for women of color, you can kick back and relax amongst like-minded individuals in total Mediterranean bliss. Founded by former Brooklynite Sienna Brown in 2014 after she moved to Spain, Las Morenas is for women who want to live a life with purpose, but arent sure where to start. The first three experiences have taken place in a sprawling villa in the idyllic town of Javea, Spain, with the fourth to be situated in the vibrant city of Grenada in 2019. The getaway I attended was spectacularly organized, but with plenty of free time left for solo working. Siennas passion for helping other women is infectious, and by the end of the trip, all nine of the attendees assured me that they are dedicating themselves to designing a new life abroad. The Las Morenas experience was carefully curated, combining killer Wi-Fi with either shared or private accommodation, for varios budgets. There were tailored workshops on the practicalities of moving abroad, exquisite wine-tasting and tapas experiences in carefully selected local restaurants, plus hiking, bar, and beach excursions. An authentic Spanish cooking class with professional chefs was a real highlight, but I also emerged from my stay with a bunch of new friendships. Las Morenas is a unique and inspiring opportunity to experience Spain through a new lense, catch up on some work, and equip yourself with the tools to empower personal and professional development. Prices start at $1,200 for five nights with all activities and accommodation included. 3. Hacker Paradise Hacker Paradise has cemented itself as a leader of the remote working industry. Their carefully curated work-travel experiences are world-class, drawing quirky, fun-loving professionals from all over the world. Theyve run trips in a range of locations including Vietnam, Colombia, Japan, Portugal, Argentina, and South Africa, and arranged talks from tech professionals like Leo Widrich (co-founder of Buffer) to inspire their attendees. Hacker Paradise takes the stress out of remote living, blending immersive travel with stunning and reliable workspaces. Although they move all over the world, Hacker Paradise maintains an impeccable standard of accommodation, choosing centrally located housing with 24/7 access to coworking spaces wherever they go. They also provide local SIM cards, access to a diverse alumni network, and an entertaining (but optional) schedule of activities, ranging from professional and cultural to active and social. Hacker Paradise offers flexible membership without the need for a huge deposit, and accomodation (which is private unless requested) starts from two weeks, right up to 12 months which you can use in a row, or opt to spread them out over the year. Prices start at $1,500 for two weeks. All thats left to do now is show up and be welcomed into a thriving community of people who are excited to socialize and collaborate with you. 4. Sun & Co Set in a restored 19th-century house in the center of a historic seaside town in Spain, Sun & Co is the first real co-living and co-working community on the Mediterranean Coast. Ideal for anyone seeking a fantastic work and leisure balance, Sun & Co offers desk space with a difference, plus plenty of affordable excursions to do in and around the town of Javea. The vibe is super chill: bikes are available to borrow for free, and a spacious open-plan kitchen with a help-yourself approach to the local organic coffee means that theres always someone to chat with during break time. John Hormaetxe, one of the co-founders with extensive experience in the co-working industry, runs the house and is always on hand to offer advice about the local area. When I attended for a few days in December, I was pleasantly surprised at how well Sun & Co fosters a sense of community; whether through the weekly meetings where attendees collaborate and run skill-swap sessions, or the group hikes and beach excursions, it felt like a home away from home. Theres space for up to 16 people, or the possibility to rent the entire house as a company or group of 20. Then there are the silent work areas, chill-out sofas, and Skype room, which ensure the house feels intimate while still being the perfect setting to complete work, drawing freelancers, business entrepreneurs and professionals from all over the world. Recommended for anyone in need of new experiences, a collaborative community, and a relaxed but professional working environment. Prices start at $220 per week for a shared room of four. 5. WiFi Tribe WiFi Tribe wants to show you how the world can be your home and theyve got plenty of options. In 2019, theyll be traveling through five continents at a steady pace, opting to stick around in their favorite cities for up to four months at a time. The founders love South Africa, so that makes a heavy appearance on the calendar, as do Bali and Colombia. But with prices starting at just $900 a month for a shared room, and an average group size of around 15-25, WiFi Tribe creates a tight-knit community in dreamy locations at an affordable price. Photo credit: Kevin C. Cox - Getty Images From Esquire That the Bible-bangers and fetus obsessives were coming for Roe has been obvious since the day that decision was handed down. What people couldn't seem to understand was that even Roe was nothing but a key to something larger-namely, Griswold v. Connecticut. Once they came for that, they were coming for birth control. But even Griswold isn't the heart of this repressive nesting doll. If Griswold falls, then so does the right to privacy it derived from the text of the 14th Amendment, and that has been a right wing target literally for decades. That's the final triumph. Conservatives-especially those masquerading as "originalist" legal scholars-have never accepted this right as fairly derived. And once you break down a constitutionally-derived right to privacy, once you control the mechanisms of government, you can do almost anything. If you don't believe this scenario to be possible, take a look at the law signed on Wednesday in Georgia by Governor Brian Kemp, whose election did not exactly drip with legitimacy. From Slate: The primary purpose of HB 481 is to prohibit doctors from terminating any pregnancy after they can detect embryonic or fetal cardiac activity, which typically occurs at six weeks gestation. But the bill does far more than that. In one sweeping provision, it declares that unborn children are a class of living, distinct person that deserves full legal recognition. Thus, Georgia law must recognize unborn children as natural persons-not just for the purposes of abortion, but as a legal rule. This radical revision of Georgia law is quite deliberate: The bill confirms that fetuses shall be included in population based determinations from now on, because they are legally humans, and residents of the state. But it is not clear whether the bills drafters contemplated the more dramatic consequences of granting legal personhood to fetuses. For instance, as Georgia appellate attorney Andrew Fleischman has pointed out, the moment this bill takes effect on Jan. 1, 2020, the state will be illegally holding thousands of citizens in jail without bond. Thats because, under HB 481, pregnant inmates fetuses have independent rights-including the right to due process. Can a juvenile attorney represent an inmates fetus and demand its release? If not, why? It is an egregious due process violation to punish one human for the crimes of another. If an inmates fetus is a human, how can Georgia lawfully detain it for a crime it did not commit? Story continues So, that's a lovely bit of Jesuitical argument, but the criminal consequences in this law go far beyond any proposed prior to the current anti-choice frenzy in many of the several states. Women who terminate their own pregnancies could be charged with homicide, and so could doctors who provide procedures now illegal under the law, and so could women who lose their pregnancies through risky behaviors. And then there's this possibility, for anyone still nostalgic for the way things were under the Fugitive Slave Act. Even women who seek lawful abortions out of state may not escape punishment. If a Georgia resident plans to travel elsewhere to obtain an abortion, she may be charged with conspiracy to commit murder, punishable by 10 years imprisonment. An individual who helps a woman plan her trip to get an out-of-state abortion, or transports her to the clinic, may also be charged with conspiracy. These individuals, after all, are conspiring to end of the life of a person with full legal recognition under Georgia law. At the moment, it's likely that existing Supreme Court precedents will short-circuit these potential legal horrors. But, given the current makeup of the Nine Wise Souls, it's more likely than ever that Roe goes down and then all the other dominoes come clattering afterwards. Respond to this post on the Esquire Politics Facebook page here. ('You Might Also Like',) Decrease Font Size Font Size Increase Font Size Article body Auburn Universitys School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences has established a new initiative called the Forest, Environment and Wildlife Leadership, or FEWL, Academy to create future leaders. Dean Janaki Alavalapati and Assistant Professor and Alabama Extension Specialist Adam Maggard co-instruct the students. To aid in their experiential learning during the two-semester course, students will interface with a range of leadership and private industry executives, as well as policy makers in Montgomery and Washington, D.C., said Alavalapati. Accompanied by their instructors, the first cohort of students recently visited Montgomery to meet with Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and other leaders of the Alabama Forestry Association and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. We have been reading and discussing a book on leadership that outlines traits of successful leaders, as well as offering tips and insight for us to use in our professional lives after entering the workforce, said Will Dunnam, a forestry student. To see how the same skills we have discussed in class are used on Capitol Hill was a great learning opportunity for all of us. Later this year, they will travel to Washington, D.C., to visit organizations and offices where they will learn about and witness the development of natural resource policy issues. Qualified students in Auburns School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences who are in good academic standing with an interest in developing leadership skills are invited to apply. Each year, 12 to 15 outstanding applicants will be selected to participate in the FEWL Academy. The 2019 program is sponsored by a private donation from Ed Sweeten, a 1979 Auburn graduate. I am motivated to support programs such as the FEWL Academy that will directly benefit the marketplace, said Sweeten. As these young professionals advance in their careers, natural resource-related industries will gain from their leadership. The schools long-term goal is to create an endowment to support this program. Individuals or corporations interested in contributing to the endowment may contact the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences Development Office at 334-844-2791 or by email at sfwsdev@auburn.edu. For more information about the FEWL Academy students and program, visit https://sfws.auburn.edu/fewl-academy/. (Written by Jamie Anderson, Auburn University) 125 Years Ago Pavilion planned: The Riverside Park company has made arrangements for conducting an amusement pavilion at the park this summer. A stage will be built and the audience will be seated in a tent. Standard comedies and dramas will be presented, and Elmendorfs orchestra will furnish the music. In the news: The Interstate Fair is a go. That was the decision made at a convention held in the Woodbury County Courthouse with delegates from Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Minnesota. Lieutenant Reeves, Third Infantry, has had his recruiting office open for 10 days and has signed up eight men to date. No bail for beer: Two patrolmen went into the kitchen of Mrs. Lowe, who lives and runs a saloon on Fourth Street between Court and Virginia. They found her presiding over a keg of beer with two men drinking beer. Mrs. Lowe was charged with keeping and selling intoxicating liquors and the men were charged with unlawful assembly. They were released on bail, but the beer was not bailable and is still being held at the station. 100 Years Ago Around town: Ethel Barrymore, the distinguished actress and comedienne, will perform at the Auditorium Wednesday in The Off Chance. Mrs. Cloid Smith of Sioux City presided over a 1 oclock luncheon Wednesday in her home for members of the Colonial Club. The first railroad carload of freshly frozen fish from Boston 40,000 pounds worth -- are selling for less than half the usual price, from 5 to 8 cents a pound. Name change: It is the intention of the Commercial club to change its name to Sioux City Chamber of Commerce, declared president E. J. Wallen, chairman of the Manufacturers Bureau. He made the announcement during the clubs annual meeting. Youthful follies: More than 100 youthful revelers, the majority of whom were 16, were dispersed at 3:30 oclock Sunday morning when police raided a dance at a residence in Emerson Heights. Police arrested A. W. Lynn for operating a dance after the closing hour of 11:30. Neighbors had complained about the disturbance. 50 Years Ago Guardsmen returning: The first contingent of members of the 174th Tactical Fighter Squadron returned to Sioux City Sunday from South Vietnam, where they had been deployed for a year. The guardsmen flew about 6,490 missions in their F100 Supersabres, providing air support, bombing and strafing missions against the enemy. Back in Sioux City, the airmen will join other returning members of the 185th Tactical Fighter Group who have been serving at bases in Korea and elsewhere. Making news: Mrs. Strode (Beverly) Hinds of Sioux City has been elected president of the Iowa Dental Association Womens Auxiliary at the annual meeting in Des Moines. The Sioux City Singles Club will hold a picnic and steak fry at Scenic Park in South Sioux City starting at 6:30 p.m Thursday. Dedication ceremonies for the new fire station at 1828 27th St. will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, and open houses will be held at all stations from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Out the window: A crane is being used to lift a truck trailer body to the fourth floor of the Sears, Roebuck & Co. warehouse at Third and Jackson streets. A hole was knocked in the wall so merchandise can be loaded directly into the trailer and then taken to a warehouse on Tri-View Avenue. The downtown building will be torn down to make room for a parking ramp. Between 80 to 90 truckloads will be needed. 25 Years Ago Wells expansion Le Mars, Iowa, leaders praised Wells Dairys decision to build its $10 million distribution center there, with construction to begin immediately. Doug Wells, senior vice president, said the center will be built as part of the overall $19 million expansion project. The distribution center will employ 50 new people. Community news: Gateway 2000 in North Sioux City has expanded its marketing operations into France. East High School teacher Royce Barnum has been elected chairman of the citys Human Rights Commission. ...More than 35,000 people visited the Dinamation exhibit featuring life-sized prehistoric creatures during its two-month run at the KD Station. Eclipse observed: Siouxlanders used a variety of viewing devices, from two pieces of paper to welders goggles to observatories, to witness the moon partially blocking the sun Tuesday. The sky dimmed and the temperature dropped 3 degrees at 11:45 a.m. when 80 percent of the sun was blocked out. The next total eclipse will be in 2019. These items were published in The Journal May 5-11, 1894, 1919, 1969 and 1994. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Considering the number of schlubby politicians with gorgeous wives, it shouldnt come as a surprise that a gorgeous politician would have a schlubby boyfriend. But thats the premise behind Long Shot, an amusing look at presidential politics and what is viewed as acceptable behavior. Charlize Theron stars as the secretary of state, a rising star who, quite likely, could replace the president when he announces hes leaving public office for a career in films. She hires an old friend (Seth Rogen) to punch up her speeches and, in no time, the two find theyve got more in common than a well-turned phrase. Director Jonathan Levine makes a few sly comments about Hollywood and D.C. (theres a fun debate about actors who have made the leap from television to film) and shows how corporate donors can be big players in the legislation that gets passed. Theron (who looks like shes been filtered on someones iPhone) reins in her usual sense of humor and plays most scenes like Ivanka Trump. Shes smarter than the president (Bob Odenkirk) and much more savvy about her future than any underling might imagine. She envisions an environmental pact that could make her a world player (or at least someone who isnt just known for dating the prime minister of Canada). She handles the turns well, until the president wants her to alter the terms and bow to the wishes of a particular benefactor. She shares her concerns with Rogen, who has his own history with corporate greed. Quitting when he learns his newspaper has been taken over by a slimy publisher, he realizes everyones integrity is on the line. While attending a Boyz II Men concert, he runs into Therons Charlotte Field and they reminisce about the days when she was his babysitter. She needs a writer; he needs a job and the relationship begins. As he learns more about her (and she gets someone to talk to), they bond and begin sleeping together. Naturally, advisers tell her hes a liability. Levine lets this play out too long (the film should be less than two hours, not more) and has too many pop culture references for longevitys sake. While another pair might have been able to sell this a bit better (Rogen seems, um, too young for Theron), the two get their laughs dont really taint the premise. A better film exists as a sequel. Levine points to what the future holds and it has big possibilities. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Staying in? We've got you covered Get the recommendations on what's streaming now, games you'll love, TV news and more with our weekly Home Entertainment newsletter! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SIOUX CITY -- A man who had skipped his trial on drug charges was arrested Tuesday and charged with possession of more drugs. Allen Price, 21, of Sioux City, was being held in the Woodbury County Jail on an $85,000 bond and faced charges of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, third-offense possession of a controlled substance and failure to affix a drug tax stamp. Price was the passenger in a vehicle stopped by police in the 1700 block of Nebraska Street at about 8:55 p.m. Tuesday. He arrested on a warrant stemming from his failure to show up for his April 30 trial on numerous drug charges. According to court documents, during a search of the vehicle, police found 9 grams of methamphetamine and 2.5 grams of marijuana that officers determined belonged to Price. Price still faces charges of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, third-offense possession of a controlled substance, failure to affix a drug tax stamp, driving while license revoked and assault on a peace officer stemming from a Dec. 4 arrest in which Price was found in possession of meth and marijuana during a traffic stop. Price also faces a felony charge of failure to appear for skipping his trial last month. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 3 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa -- Two Spirit Lake residents were arrested on felony drug charges, after police said they sought to deliver marijuana. The Spirit Lake Police Department in a Tuesday release announced the arrests of Joshua Howard, 38, and Amanda Howard, 30. Police said a search warrant was executed for a home in the 1200 block of Jackson Avenue on Sunday, and drugs, including marijuana, were found in the house. The Howards, who live in the home, were each cited for possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver. They were booked into Dickinson County Jail. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 STORM LAKE, Iowa -- An 11-year-old boy was arrested Tuesday and charged with making a threat on social media to conduct a school shooting at a Storm Lake school. Storm Lake police received a report at about 10 p.m. Tuesday that the Lakeside, Iowa, boy had said on Snapchat that we was going to conduct the shooting Wednesday at Storm Lake Middle School, where he attends school. According to a news release from the Storm Lake Police Department, officers took the juvenile into custody at about 10:30 p.m. at his home. A search of his home found no weapons. Police charged the boy with terroristic threats, a Class D felony. He was released to the custody of a parent, and his case was forwarded to juvenile court. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 1 Funny 4 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Sign up for our Crime & Courts newsletter Get the latest in local public safety news with this weekly email. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SIOUX CITY -- The Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement organization is holding a meeting in Sioux City on Thursday to discuss their quest for ensuring the state has clean water. The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at First Unitarian Church, 2508 Jackson St. It is one of eight statewide meetings in which Iowa CCI will describe the fight for clean water being taken to the judicial system. The group is pursuing a public trust doctrine lawsuit, which Iowa CCI State Policy Director Adam Mason in a release said is necessary "to clean up our water." Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement is described as a grassroots action group that uses community organizing to pursue public policy that puts communities before corporations and people before profits, politics and polluters. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 ORANGE CITY, Iowa -- Sioux County Democratic Party leaders will be inducted into the Iowa Democratic Party Hall of Fame as the states Outstanding Democratic Party Chair in a June 9 ceremony in Cedar Rapids. The ceremony will take place during the state party's annual celebration event. A Wednesday release said the Sioux County Democrats group is being honored for offering progressive politics in one of Iowas most conservative counties. Over the last five years, county party leaders have sought sought to rebrand the group, and doubled the size of their central committee. They offered educational forums, held Winter Picnic fundraisers, staffed display tables at college fairs, along with hosting candidate appearances and a congressional debate. They also expanded the number of caucus sites, leading to county party record midterm attendance in 2018. Others will be honored with induction into the Iowa Democratic Partys Hall of Fame, including Fred and Charlotte Hubbell as outstanding supporters and state Rep. Ras Smith, of Waterloo, as a rising star. Democratic presidential candidates who will attend the June event will include Cory Booker, Pete Buttigieg, John Delaney, Kirsten Gillibrand, Kamala Harris, John Hickenlooper, Amy Klobuchar, Elizabeth Warren and Andrew Yang. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 NORTH SIOUX CITY -- Inside a rehearsal space at the 5678! Dance Studio on Monday night, instructor Haley Hutton put a group of younger students through their paces during a strenuous jazz routine set to the theme of the movie "Fame." The high school-aged dancers were more than up to Hutton's challenging choreography. Indeed, the 16 dancers from the 5678! Dance Studio placed in the top 10 in two categories at the U.S. All Star Federation (USASF) Dance Worlds Competition, held April 27-29 at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort in Orlando, Florida. According to dance studio owner Melissa Strong, this is the fourth consecutive year that 5678! students earned the right to compete in the contest, which attracts dancers from around the world. However, this is the first year that the school's senior contemporary dance team (made up of students ages 14-18) and open coed jazz dance team (made up of students age 14 to adult) placed so well. The senior team placed 10th, and the open team placed fourth. "The students truly deserved the accolades," Strong said, after the team's return. "The Worlds is always very competitive and our kids gave their all." Literally competing on the world stage was a new experience for Dakota Valley High School ninth-grader Audrey Hoekstra. "It was interesting seeing how dancers from the world do their routines," she said. While this was Audrey's first time at the Dance Worlds Competition, it was actually Molly Saltzman's fourth trip to the contest. "You really have to stay focused at all times," Molly, a Bishop Heelan Catholic High School 12th-grader, said of the competition, which has ballet, jazz and contemporary categories. "There's so much to do and not a lot of time to do it in." For Dakota Valley High School 10th-grader Freddie Linden, large-scale competitions allow him to see other male dancers perform. "I'm the only guy (on the 5678! senior and open teams), so it's fun seeing other guys from other groups involved in dance," he explained. Actually, Freddie had to sue the South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA) to become a member of his high school's competitive dance team. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 1 Angry 1 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Securities Appellate Tribunal has granted interim stay on the Sebi's orders against stock brokers OPG Securities and GKN Securities in the NSE co-location case. However, OPG and GKN have been directed to deposit Rs 7.5 crore and Rs 2.5 crore, respectively, to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) on or before May 20. If the amount is not deposited within the stipulated period, the interim order will stand vacated automatically, the tribunal said. It said that investigations have been going on since 2015 and stopping the business activities of the brokers with immediate effect by impugned order, prima-facie appears to be unjustified. "The matter would be listed for admission and final disposal on July 22," the tribunal said in two separate but similarly worded orders on Monday. Last week, Sebi had barred OPG Securities and its three directors from markets for five years and asked them to disgorge illegal gains of Rs 15.57 crore with interest, while GKN Securities was asked to disgorge Rs 4.9 along with interest. Besides, GKN was asked not to undertake any trade on any stock exchange on proprietary account for two years. The Sebi's ruling came after it found that the brokers were guilty of misconduct in the NSE's co-location case and made unlawful gains by having unfair faster access to market data compared to other brokers. Also read: NSE co-location case: Sebi partially relaxes order against OPG Securities, 3 directors Also read: Sebi disposes of disclosure lapses case against SBICAP Trustee Correctionville, Iowa Barry F. Cook, 63, of Correctionville, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, May 2, 2019, in Sequin, Texas. Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at United Methodist Church in Anthon, Iowa, with the Rev. Sheryl Ashley officiating. Visitation will be 1 p.m. until service time Saturday at the church. Barry was born on March 26, 1956, in Sac City, Iowa, the oldest of five children. He was the son of John and Velma Lou (Sapp) Cook. He graduated from Heelan High School in 1974 and attended pre-seminary college in upstate New York for two years. He married Cindy Junck on June 6,1992 at their McCook Lake, S.D. home. They moved to rural Correctionville in 2004. Following high school, Barry worked as a fishing guide in Pierre, S.D. He later purchased a big rig and began his trucking career as an independent driver. Over his 43-year career, he logged 5.3 million accident free miles. In 2018, he received the National Trucker of the Year Award for over the road transport drivers. Barry took a break from truck driving and started a gutter business with his brother-in-law for 10 years, before returning to the road. In 2012, he semi-retired and along with his wife, Cindy, they wintered in Raymondville, Texas for the past seven years. They shared their lives with their seven children, Nichol Cook of Sioux Falls, S.D., Amanda Pence of Sioux City, Jamie Cook of Sioux Falls, April Rubey (Mark) of Maple Grove, Minn., Kelsey Cook of Sioux Falls, Cody Percell (Elizabeth) of Blair, Neb. and Christopher Cook (CJ) (fiancee, Amber Beyer) of Correctionville. In addition to his wife and children, he is survived by eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, John Cook. DES MOINES -- Public health officials in Iowa are turning their attention away from flu cases and toward disease-transmitting ticks and mosquitoes while keeping a watchful eye out for measles outbreaks. State Medical Director Dr. Caitlin Pedati said the influenza season has slowed to sporadic and should be over by months end but not before claiming 79 lives, including one pediatric flu-related death. I do expect to see a drop off in the coming weeks, she noted. Last year, 272 Iowans died due to influenza, so thankfully this was a less-severe flu season, Pedati told members of the state Board of Health on Wednesday. The flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses. With the onset of spring weather, warmer weather and more outdoor activities, she said, the focus shifts to vector-borne diseases with special attention going to the West Nile virus after 2018 when Iowa saw the second-highest number of cases since the mosquito-borne virus was identified in Iowa in 2002. The Iowa Department of Public Health reported at least 73 cases of West Nile virus were under investigation the most since 147 cases in 2003. Most people who become infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms, she said, but about one in five infected people will develop a fever along with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains and rash. It is recommended that Iowans use insect repellent with DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535 as well as avoiding outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active. They are advised to wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, shoes and socks outdoors whenever possible and eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs. While some states are dealing with measles cases that have reached 764 nationwide, Pedati said Iowas count for the very contagious virus stands at two both in the same northeastern Iowa household. Testing by the State Hygienic Lab confirmed that first case of measles infection was for an individual who was unvaccinated and recently returned from Israel, where measles transmission is occurring. The second person was a household contact of the first person with the infection. Those marked the first cases of measles in Iowa since 2011. Health officials said there was no current threat to the general public. Pedati said the cases serve as a reminder for all Iowans to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date because the MMR vaccine prevents diseases and save lives. Its so critically important to maintain the use of a good preventive tool and thats the MMR vaccine, she told the state board, noting that one dose is highly effective in up to 94 percent of vaccinations and that number climbs to 97 percent with two doses. We know that this is going to be an ongoing issue for a little while and we want to make sure that people know who to go to for good information, added Pedati. We want everybody to be protected and we want people to understand that the reason is because there are places in the world where this is ongoing, and the potential to import it into vulnerable populations is exactly what weve seen in places like New York, Michigan and California. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 DES MOINES -- A former U.S. attorney from Marion was among the hundreds of former federal prosecutors who signed a letter laying out their belief that special counsel Robert Muellers findings would have produced obstruction of justice charges for anyone other than the president. We believe there is ample evidence set out in the Mueller report that if it has been any other individual would support multiple felony charges for obstruction, Kevin Techau, former U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Iowa, said Tuesday. Mueller did not recommend obstruction charges, and it is the legal opinion of the Department of Justice that sitting presidents cannot be indicted. Techau, who served during the Obama administration, joined more than 450 former prosecutors in signing what was referred to as a DOJ Alumni Statement that was posted on Medium, a blogging platform. Its not political, Techau said, pointing out the signers served under Republican and Democratic presidents dating back to the Eisenhower administration. There were many who signed on who served at the pleasure of Republican presidents at much higher levels than I did. Techau said he signed the letter out of a belief that its important for everyday people to understand that, if you believe in the rule of law, theres enough evidence to support obstruction charges. The letter also offers a second opinion on statements by Attorney General William Barr that the Mueller report was a total exoneration of President Donald Trump. According to Barr, the evidence Mueller uncovered was not sufficient to establish that Trump committed a crime. We disagree with that, Techau said. There are some very serious things that happened that the public should know. Its his belief that the Department of Justice position that a sitting president cannot be indicted makes sense on the surface. However, Techau said it can be argued that in exercising the authority given him under Article II of the Constitution, Trump was acting more for his own benefit than for the public at large. For Techau, who now practices with Smith Mill & Schrock, the letter is just another source of information for people to consider. They can use the information or not. As far as he knows, there is no next step planned by the letters signers. I believe it stands by itself, he said. We just feel like its important to get word out that there is more than one opinion on how this has been handled. He noted that the letter from former Justice officials is not unique. Other letters have been put together over the past two years regarding other aspects of the investigation, said Techau, who said was unaware of any other Iowans who signed the letter. It happens on other issues. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 SIOUX CENTER, Iowa -- The Sioux Center City Council has approved the sale of city land for a new housing development on the city's north side. The council approved the sale of 7.36 acres Monday to Sioux Center Land Development, which plans a 20-lot addition named Country View North Addition. "With 20-30 homes being built each year in town, efforts to provide residential properties are ongoing," Sioux Center Economic Development director Dennis Dokter said in a news release. "When people move to our community, we want to have options for them, and we feel this development will offer a good option and complement the other residential developments already in place." The developer plans to begin earth work and infrastructure construction this spring or summer, and the first lots should be available in the fall. The development group anticipates building a few spec homes each year and making lots available for sale, the news release from the city said. The addition will include a short north/south street with four lots and a cul-de-sac running east/west with 16 lots. The property has been rezoned from agriculture to single-family residential. The addition is near the Country View area, in which Sioux Center Land Development has built about 95 homes. The last available house was sold this past year. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SIOUX CENTER, Iowa -- The Sioux Center Community School District moved a step closer to starting construction of a new high school Monday, when the Sioux Center City Council sold nearly 25 acres of land to the district for the planned school. The 24.85 acres sold to the school district are north of the Sioux County fairgrounds, and a portion of the land will be set aside for community multipurpose green space with parking lot access. "The city is excited to see the growth of our community in all aspects, which include our local schools. It is great that the city can be a partner in helping facilitate this growth through the sale of some land and shared use of multipurpose green space for the community," city manager Scott Wynja said in a news release from the city. Sioux Center voters in February approved a $24.9 million bond issue to finance the new high school. Superintendent Gary McEldowney on Monday thanked the city council for its action and said that earth work at the construction site should begin in June. The new high school is expected to open for the 2021-22 school year. Wynja said the school district and city are drafting an agreement to collaborate on maintenance of the parking lot and road near the green space and for care of the space, which will be serve as playing fields and activity space for youth and adult recreation programs. In the current school year, Sioux Center has 393 students in grades 9-12, 401 middle school students in grades 5-8 and 572 elementary students in transitional kindergarten through fourth grade. The district is growing by about 50 students annually. McEldowney told the Journal earlier this year that if growth continues at the current rate, Sioux Center's total enrollment will rise from 1,300 students to 1,800 students in 10 years. The total cost of the new high school is estimated at $39.6 million. The district will cover 37 percent or $14.7 million, with other revenues, with the bond proceeds picking up the other 63 percent. Copyright 2019 The Sioux City Journal. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Westminster Magistrates' Court in London rejected the third bail plea presented by fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi on Wednesday. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot heard Modi's fresh bail application today. The next hearing in his extradition proceedings has been scheduled for May 30. He will now be taken back to Wandsworth prison where he can discuss further course of action with his legal team. During the hearing, Modi's legal team tried to convince the judge of a change in circumstances to secure bail for him. It also doubled the bail security to 2 million pounds and offered he would stay on 24-hour curfew at his London flat. "Conditions in Wandsworth (prison) are unliveable... Modi is willing to abide by any conditions you choose to impose," his barrister Clare Montgomery told the Judge during the hearing. ALSO READ:PNB scam main accused Nirav Modi applies for bail again However, Judge Arbuthnot denied bail to Modi as she feared that he would fail to surrender if granted bail. Earlier, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), arguing on behalf of Indian authorities, said Modi should not be granted bail as the evidence presented by the defence does not amount to change of circumstances required to the third bail application. A team of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), led by a joint director rank official was also present at the court to oppose Modi's bail application. Reports suggest that the team held a meeting with the CPS before the hearing and presented some fresh evidence to present before the court. Modi is believed to have been living in the UK on an Investor Visa. He had applied for the 'golden visa' in 2015 when it was relatively easier for super-rich individuals to acquire residency rights in the United Kingdom based on a minimum of 2 million pounds investment. ALSO READ:ED auctions 13 luxury cars of Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi for Rs 3.29 crore He was denied bail by District Judge Marie Mallon at his first hearing on March 20 soon after his arrest by Scotland Yard officers from a central London bank branch as he tried to open a new bank account and has been in custody at HMP Wandsworth prison in south-west London since then. He was denied bail a second time on March 29 by Chief Magistrate Arbuthnot who ruled that there were "substantial grounds" to believe that he would fail to surrender and also noted that "very unusually in a fraud case" the accused had made death threats to witnesses. (With PTI inputs) In a country preoccupied with presidential candidates preaching extreme liberalism and even unabashed socialism comes America's greatest living historian, David McCullough, with a new and needed book. It's called "The Pioneers" and the subtitle is its theme: "The heroic story of the settlers who brought the American ideal west" (Simon and Schuster). Nowadays, while students at universities and public schools are learning a history often tainted by political correctness and revisionism, McCullough writes of a young country that might have been stillborn were it not for these pioneers. The Founder Fathers about whom most are familiar -- Washington, Jefferson and Adams -- play minor roles in McCullough's book. Instead, we're offered characters who are likely unfamiliar to most, such as Manasseh and Ephraim Cutler, Rufus Putnam and Samuel Hildreth. These and many others did the grunt work of nation building. The land on which McCullough mostly focuses was called The Northwest Territory, the initial boundaries of which included the Ohio and Muskinghum Rivers. Its inspiration was The Northwest Ordinance, passed by the Confederation Congress in 1787. The document contained this sentence in Article 3, long since abandoned to our detriment: "Religion, morality, and knowledge, being necessary to good government and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged." McCullough details the enormous sacrifices of men, women and children, who cleared trees, endured harsh weather and conquered lands, expanding the boundaries of the new nation. Yes, Native Americans were displaced in ways that were disgraceful. McCullough notes all that remained were their tribal names, which were assigned to rivers and towns. Among the tribes were the Delaware, Miami, Ottawa, Shawnee and Wyandot. Among the rivers named for them were the Cuyahoga and Chippewa Creek -- the creek being a tributary of the Cuyahoga River -- as was the Tuscarawas River. It was small consolation to native people who believed land was sacred and not to be owned and who preceded white settlers. As with his other books, McCullough's writing style makes one feel a part of it all. What astounds is how much New Englanders were willing to sacrifice to explore foreign and hostile land and expand America's borders. Many died of disease, accidents, bad weather and war with Native American tribes. Living conditions were harsh compared to what they had known in New England, but they persisted. In summing up the contributions of these pioneers, McCullough writes: "(they) had finished their work, each in his or her own way, and no matter the adversities to be faced, propelled as they were by high, worthy purpose. They accomplished what they had set out to do not for money, not for possessions or fame, but to advance the quality and opportunities of life -- to propel as best they could the American ideals." What do we consider to be our American ideals in 2019? The pioneers would likely see them in conflict with their own. Many of our forebears had a strong faith in God and were motivated by what they believed was His will in establishing a nation in which religious freedom and education were paramount. Most believed the Bible was the foundation of a good education. These pioneers also believed America had a purpose, sanctioned by God, which the world might wish to emulate. Slavery was abolished in Ohio by the state's original constitution (1802), owing much to the anti-slavery efforts of Manasseh and Ephraim Cutler. "The Pioneers" is a rebuke to the entitlement mentality of the 21st century. It should be mandatory reading for all seeking a better understanding of the way we were and how far we have departed from the ideals of those great and heroic men and women of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Somebody seems to have slipped the New York Times a decades worth of Donald Trumps tax information, and as a result, we now know that our president claimed losses from his businesses every single year between 1985 and 1994, totaling more than $1 billion. If it turns out that those losses were real, it would be devastating for Trumps personal mythology. The story suggests his image as a successful business mogul was a mirage virtually from the startthat his empire was in deep trouble well before the early 90s real estate bust or his casino bankruptcies nearly brought him to the brink of a public downfall. Hes got to be, quite literally, the most successful con artist of all time, right? MSNBCs Chris Hayes wondered after the story published. Who comes close? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president, however, claims that his only illusion was the red ink. On Twitter on Wednesday, Trump explained that the losses were just the result of tax games, which he called a sport. Real estate developers in the 1980s & 1990s, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases. Much was non monetary. Sometimes considered tax shelter, ...... Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Advertisement Advertisement ....you would get it by building, or even buying. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes....almost all real estate developers did - and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport. Additionally, the very old information put out is a highly inaccurate Fake News hit job! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 Advertisement Whichever story is closer to the truth, the Times revelations should be politically damaging for Trump, and any Democrat who runs against him in 2020 ought to throw it in his face whenever theyre on a debate stage together. Advertisement To people who follow politics, the idea that Donald Trump is a self-promoting fraud who was born into a wealthy real estate family and ran various businesses into the ground before reinventing himself as a branding guru and reality TV star is basically old hat. This is part of the reason that the Times big scoop last October showing that Trump received some $413 million over the years from his real estate developer father was greeted with a bit of a shrug in media circles, even though it made a mockery of Trumps old line about how he started in business with no more than a $1 million loan from his dad. Advertisement Advertisement As Matt Yglesias notes, however, many Americans do not actually know the presidents life story. Instead, they believe Trump was the self-made entrepreneur he played on TVand that shapes their opinion about him. In a series of surveys between 2016 and 2018, researchers from the University of Maryland found that a large chunk of Americans appeared to have no idea Trump was born rich. As of last year, barely more than half seemed to realize it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This confusion has almost certainly helped Trumps public image. In a randomized experiment, the Maryland researchers found that telling survey takers Trump was born wealthy and that his father had to bail out his companies made them less likely to say the president understood the struggles of average Americans or that he was good at business. Giving voters more information about Trumps biography even seemed to hurt his standing among Republicans. Advertisement Democrats often make the mistake of assuming that everybody knows and understands the same basic facts about politics. They do not. And swing voters are often especially low on information. Many of them would probably be surprised to learn that Trump inherited a fortune from his pops, and that at the time Trump was becoming famous for The Art of the Deal, his taxes suggest he was losing money year after year. This knowledge might even make such voters feel a bit less inclined to cast a ballot for him. Sure, the next election will probably be a referendum on Trumps actual term in office. But it cant hurt to tell voters that the guy has always been running a con. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps defense of his business record isnt exactly a political winner either. The president claims that his business losses largely existed on paper, thanks to the generous deductions and write-offs that the real estate industry was entitled to in the 1980s. This might even be true. To this day, for instance, developers and property owners are allowed to claim losses from depreciation on their buildings, even if theyre actually increasing in value. The Times argues that depreciation alone cant explain Trumps red ink. But some experts believe that Trump might have benefited from a bizarre loophole called debt parking that for many years let developers write off their lenders losses on projects on their own taxes. (Congress closed that loophole in 2002.) The president got massive depreciation and tax shelter because of large-scale construction and subsidized developments, the White House told the Times in a statement. That is why the president has always scoffed at the tax system and said you need to change the tax laws. You can make a large income and not have to pay large amount of taxes. Advertisement The problem, as New York magazines Eric Levitz points out, is that Trump already passed a massive tax bill that left the real estate industrys treasured write-offs unscathed, while creating a few new giveaways to developers and investors. If Trump wants to claim that the IRS code is actually the problem, Democrats have an easy response: Why didnt you try to fix it? As a political tactic, trolling Trump over his business record accomplishes one of two things: It either reminds voterswho already doubt his honestythat the president is a lifelong fabulist. Or it forces him to talk about why he passed a tax cut that curbed tax deductions for homeowners, but not property developers like him. Its a win-win. Ironically, considering it deals with Bob Fosse being more excited about directing a film than a stage musical to provide a vehicle for ex-wife Gwen Verdon, Episode 5 of Fosse/Verdon is built around a very theatrical concept: seven individuals cooped up in a Quogue, New York, beach house, allowing grievances to be aired, pasts to be explored, and alliances to shift. As exes Bob and Gwen are both accompanied by new, younger partners (plus daughter Nicole), with the group filled out by resident grump Paddy Chayefsky and grieving widower Neil Simon, there is plenty of potential for dinner party passive aggression. But how much of this really happened, and how much was invented for the series? As weve done for each of the first four episodes, we break it all down below. Gwens Push for Chicago Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve heard in previous episodes that Gwen is struggling to get the rights to Chicago. The project in question was originally a 1926 play of the same name written by a Chicago Tribune reporter named Maurine Dallas Watkins. Watkins based the play on articles she wrote covering the murder trials of two attractive women dubbed the jazz babies, Beulah Annan (who inspired Roxie Hart) and Belva Gaertner (the model for Velma Kelly). The play was a Broadway success and was adapted into first a silent film in 1927 and then a 1942 remake called Roxie Hart that starred Ginger Rogers. Verdon first had the idea of adapting the play into a musical after she read it in the 1960s (some accounts have her wanting to do it since seeing Roxie Hart on television in the 50s), recognizing that the storys combination of tawdry glamour and deep cynicism with characters from the seedier side of showbiz was perfect for Fosse, while she, already in her 40s, knew a great part when she saw one. But she hit an immovable object in the form of Watkins, who by then had become a born-again Christian and refused to sell Verdon the rights because she believed the play glorified a sinful lifestyle. However, after Watkins death in 1969, the couple (and producer Richard Fryer) were finally able to buy the rights from Watkins estate, and got to work with the Cabaret musical team of John Kander and Fred Ebb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the episode, Bob is keen to direct Lenny, a biopic of the late comic Lenny Bruce, because he wants to prove that he can do a movie with no tricks, no dancing, no singing and feels a certain urgency because Dustin Hoffman has agreed to do it and is available. But Gwen, who has booked a Broadway theater for Chicago and whose dancing career is coming to an end sooner rather than later, pushes him to do Chicago first, with the result that he decides to do both at once, whatever the cost to his health. It is certain that Fosse juggled the two projects, and as reflected in Fosses autobiographical film All That Jazz, this was down to his struggle between his own desires and the loyalty he felt toward Verdon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get Slate Culture in Your Inbox We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. Bobs Payne Whitney Stay Advertisement Advertisement The episode starts with Gwen and Nicole trying to cheer up a hollow-eyed, silent Bob who is sitting in the day room of a psych ward, wearing a hospital gown. Months later, at the Quogue house, Bob says he checked himself out after six days, while his new girlfriend, Ann Reinking, tells Gwen he has stopped taking the lithium his doctors prescribed for his manic depression. She also mentions that the doctors want Bob to take a year off work. Advertisement Advertisement After his suicide attempt, Fosse did check himself into the Payne Whitney Psychiatric Clinic, part of New York Hospital, beset by what today would be called impostor syndrome (though in 1973 it was as yet unidentified). He was convinced that he was a fraud with no work of any significance, and now that he had been raised up so high, he was bound to be found out and have a long fall down. Fosse himself said, I dream that somebody is going to knock on the door one day and announce, Were taking all of those awards back. You didnt really deserve them. Advertisement Its also true, according to Fosse biographer Sam Wasson, that Fosse left the hospital after a few days and stopped taking his lithium. More than his depression, Wasson wrote, Fosse hated the lithium they prescribed to combat it; the drug flatlined him, killing his sex drive, and he was happier to be unhappy and fucking than not unhappy, dull-witted, and not fucking. Bobs Abuse by Strippers Advertisement Advertisement In the episode, when the guys (Chayefsky, Simon, Fosse, and Ron, Gwens new boyfriend) are sitting around talking about their first times, Bob reveals that his first time was as a young teenager backstage at a burlesque house with a couple of strippers. The other guys are envious, but a flashback reveals the experience to have been more frightening than erotic. This pivotal experience has been hinted at in previous episodes, but this is the first time Bob has actually confirmed it. This would seem to be based on Fosses actual experience. At 9, he was enrolled in a Chicago show business academy run by a vaudeville enthusiast named Frederic Weaver. Weaver put Fosse in a tap act with another boy and got them bookings in the Chicago area, mostly in down-market vaudeville and burlesque houses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the dancers thought it was funny to rub up against the 13-year-old boy and get him excited right before he had to go out on stage. Then they went further. On the one hand, this gave the young Fosse bragging rights. I could go back to school, he told Rolling Stone in 1984, and tell the guys stories that were at least 75 percent true. It gave me an edge. I had mixed feelings about it, though. I was very excited, but I wasnt ready for sex. Five years earlier he had been even more willing to acknowledge his vulnerability, saying, I can romanticize it, but it was an awful life. I was very lonely, very scared. You know, hotel rooms in strange towns, and I was all alone, 13 or 14, too shy to talk to anyone, not really knowing what it was all about, and amongnot the best people. I think its done me a lot of harm, being exposed to things that early that I shouldnt have been exposed to It left some scar that I have not quite been able to figure out. It was this abuse, Fosses biographer Wasson hypothesized, that led to his depression. Bob and Gwen Rekindle Their Passion History does not record. Listen to Culture Gabfest No. 554 with Isaac Butler, Stephen Metcalf, and Julia Turner with the audio player below. Get More Culture Gabfest Slate Plus members get extended, ad-free versions of our podcastsand much more. Sign up today. Join Slate Plus Subscribe to the Culture Gabfest Copy this link and add it in your podcast app. copy link copied! For detailed instructions, see our Slate Plus podcasts page. Or find the Culture Gabfest via Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, Stitcher, or Google Play. On Slate Plus, the hosts talk to Dana about her adventures at San Franciscos Silent Film Festival. Go to Slate.com/cultureplus to learn more about Slate Plus and join today. This week, Julia, Steve, and Lend Me Your Ears Isaac Butler discuss Knock Down the House, a new Netflix documentary following four women (including now-political-superstar Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez) as they challenge the incumbents in their districts. The gabbers debate what the tension between AOCs victory and the other womens losses tells usand whether the doc manages to be both optimistic and honest about our current moment. Next, they take on Tuca & Bertie, a new Netflix series from BoJack Horsemans Lisa Hanawalt. The show represents the best (and weirdest) of what animation can achieve, but does that constant stream of sight gags come at the cost of a deeper meaning? Finally, the gabbers are joined by Slate music critic Carl Wilson to unpack Vampire Weekends first album in six years, Father of the Bride. Ezra Koenig and co. are arguably the last remnant of the aughts indie boomdo they deserve to be the final band standing, and how did they become so popular in the first place? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Links to some of the things we discussed this week: Knock Down the House I Need to Take Up Space by Sam Adams in Slate How Did Rachel Lears and Robin Blotnick Predict the Rise of AOC? They Didnt. by Jada Yuan in Vulture Progressive House Democrats Rebuke DCCC Blacklist of Companies Working With Primary Challengers to Incumbent Democrats by Devan Cole in CNN Lisa Hanawalts Tuca & Bertie Support the Girls by Inkoo Kang in Slate BoJack Horseman She Draws Deeply Human Characters. Theyre Just Animals. by Amanda Hess in the New York Times 30 Rock starring Tina Fey Vampire Weekends Father of the Bride Vampire Weekends New Album Is Their Least Cool and Maybe Their Best by Carl Wilson in Slate The Only Living Band in New York by Rob Harvilla in the Ringer David Byrne and Brian Enos Everything That Happens Will Happen Today Endorsements Isaac: Susan Chois Trust Exercise Advertisement Advertisement Julia: Who Owns a Story? by Katy Waldman in the New Yorker and Josh Levins The Queen Steve: Live Commentary on the Zizek-Peterson Debate by Nathan J. Robinson in Current Affairs Outro: Slow Jam by Riverworn This podcast was produced by Benjamin Frisch. Our production assistant is Alex Barasch. Feel free to email us at culturefest@slate.com or interact with us at @SlateCultFest on Twitter. You can follow all of Slates culture coverage by signing up for our newsletter and liking our Facebook page. And come to our live show in New York on June 8! At this point, its clear school dress codes are, more often than not, relics of traditional values that tend to disproportionately affect girls and students of color. Every few months some schools unnecessarily punitive dress code goes viral. BuzzFeed has an entire video series dedicated to adults trying to navigate the school dress codes of specific states, with the simultaneously strict and vague mandates rendering half their closets unwearable. Amid all this, its hard to be too surprised by the lengths schools will go to eradicate the scourge of bare shoulders. Even so, a new dress code from James Madison High School in Houston announced in April managed to raise some eyebrows because of its new target: parents. Advertisement Announced in a letter, the public schools new dress code bars parents from the school grounds if theyre wearing ripped jeans, leggings, short-shorts, mini-dresses, sagging jeans, undershirts without an additional layer, or cleavage-exposing tops. A number of other items, including hair bonnets, pajama pants, and rollers have also been banned, in a supposed effort to teach children the appropriate attire they are supposed to wear when entering a building, going somewhere, applying for a job, or visiting someone outside of a home setting. The strange new policy went viral when a parent said she was prevented from enrolling her daughter in school because she was wearing a T-shirt dress and a headscarf. It has since faced widespread criticism. The Washington Post reported that 58 percent of the students at Madison are Hispanic, and 40 percent are black. And as Nadra Nittle of Vox pointed out, a ban on items like hair bonnets seemed to disproportionately target black womens grooming practices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the schools principal, Carlotta Outley Brown, denied that the new dress code had any discriminatory intent, her defense of the policy still manages to traffic in respectability politics: [The policy] is about elevating standards for students who will go out into the world in the near future and seek opportunities for themselves. I do not want them to face possible barriers, she told Vox. Respectability politics describes the idea that black people can disprove perceptions of their inferiority thorough their own personal behavior, like, you know, not dropping off your child at school in a hair bonnet. The thinking goes that if we dont respect ourselves, how can we expect others to respect us? Because, clearly, respecting ourselves not only requires submission to antiquated ideas of propriety that cater to whiteness but also means black cultural traditions are inherently not respectable. These politics place the onus of eradicating racism on the victim of a stereotype instead of on the person who holds and weaponizes the stereotype. Advertisement Even if we accepted that premise, theres evidence it doesnt work. Proponents of respectability politics, who have included Booker T. Washington to Charles Barkley, have long argued that the more education black people attain, the less likely they will be to face discrimination or be treated unfairly because of their race. In fact, the opposite is true. Recent data from the Pew Research Center shows that more than 8 in 10 blacks with at least some college report theyve experienced racial discrimination, while fewer than 7 in 10 blacks with high school or less say the same. (About 2 in 10 blacks with some college reported regular discrimination, while fewer than 1 in 10 blacks with high school or less do.) Half of all black people with some college experience say theyve feared for their personal safety because of their race, while only about a third of those with less education say the same. This holds true across multiple surveys: A 2017 NPR report found that black people with college degrees were more likely to report being subjected to racial slurs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The working theory behind this apparent paradox is that because college-educated black people are more likely to work and study in predominately white environments, they are also more likely to be exposed to racial prejudice. But these studies also suggest that even if black people adhere to bedrock social definitions of respectability by pursuing higher education, they still faceor are even more likely to facethe barriers that path would supposedly prevent. Dress codes like the one at Madison High School are just another rung on this creaky ladder. In truth, racist social barriers are simply standards invented to justify racism, codes put in place to assert black inferiority. Teaching children that they can avoid bias by wearing business casual 24/7 lends undue credence to the idea that black people are somehow to blame for our own marginalization, that if we just stopped wearing sagging pants or hair rollersin, let me reiterate, not a work-related contextthat wed get more respect. It ultimately prepares kids for disappointment, anger, and heartbreak when, even in their sweater vests at the grocery store, they still face discrimination. The solution to racism is not to put the weight of eradicating bias on the shoulders of high-schoolers, who are at school to learn, or to suggest to them that their parents are not worthy of respect because of the way they dress. James Madison High should focus on giving these kids a real educationnot in the service of disproving racist myths, but because by virtue of being a child in America, that is their right. Last week, Harpers Bazaar published a piece by Melanie Hamlett that spread quickly between women on social networks. Men Have No Friends and Women Bear the Burden read the headline, and those women sharing the article certainly agreed. Willing to pay someone to take a physical copy of this story to every man Ive ever dated and smack them over the head with it, one tweeted. I cant even count the number of women I know whove gotten so tired of acting as therapist to the men theyre dating that theyve given the ultimatum: Get a real therapist, or were done, another added. I feel this in my bones, a third said. Clearly, many women found the scenario the piece describeda closed-off man, whose only confidante is his girlfriend or wife, in a relationship with a quietly frustrated woman whos sick to death of the endless listening and processingto be all too familiar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pieces second half is extremely thoughtful about the therapeutic work some men are doing to step outside of this dynamic in their own livesHamlett clearly admires them. Yet the articles social media framing, which references a classic tweet by writer Erin Rodgers (I want the term gold digger to include dudes who look for a woman who will do tons of emotional labor for them), implies considerable male agency in the construction of this toxic dynamic. And the horror stories in the first half of the piece serve to stoke plenty of readers anger at the men involved: The women Hamlett interviewed included a 24-year-old who became the default therapist for her boyfriend and a 41-year-old whose wonderful husband breaks bedside tables (multiple tables!) because he doesnt know how to talk about his feelings. The reception of this articlean outpouring of annoyance and frustration with male partnersshows how difficult it is to talk about patriarchy as a system that victimizes both women and men. Advertisement Advertisement Articles like this usually dont recognize that these norms of masculinity arent purely a matter of choice or character, but are the products of social regulation and sometimes violent enforcement, Kevin Baker wrote on Twitter. S/o [shout out] (for instance) to the two older girls who made fun of me on the bus for an entire school year because I cried after my sister died. Or the countless times I was beaten up for minor transgressions of the norms of masculinity. Reparative workin the form of therapy and group meetings like the ones the good men in this article are attendingis excellent, but the problem runs much deeper. Whats needed is a total revolution in the way we raise our children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get The Angle in Your Inbox Slate's daily newsletter rounds up the stories you need to read. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. I had something of a conversion experience on this topic while reading Carol Gilligan and Naomi Sniders Why Does Patriarchy Persist?, a short, thoughtful volume published earlier this year. For Gilligan and Snider, the transformations boys and girls go through during childhood and adolescence, when girls are told to be emotionally present for others (even if they have to sacrifice themselves to do it) and boys are taught to be independent at all costs, are deeply harmful to both genders and psychologically unsustainable. Patriarchy is an age-old structure that has been near universal, and yet there is an incoherence at its center because in reality men cant have selves without relationships and women cant have relationships without a self, write Gilligan and Snider. Patriarchy harms both men and women by forcing men to act as if they dont have or need relationships and women to act as if they dont have or need a self. Advertisement Advertisement Their argument jumps between literature and psychology, and can feel frustratingly ungrounded sometimes, but the part thats about the socially enforced emotional stifling that occurs during boys childhood and youth is borne out in research. Gilligan and Snider cite work by Judy Chu, who studied relational acuity in a cohort of boys starting at ages 4 and 5. Over the two years of Chus study, the boys became more inattentive, more inarticulate, more inauthentic and indirect with one another and with her. This dynamic shifted by the time the boys were in first grade, when the boys had replaced relational presence with relational pretense and posturing. Another researcher, Niobe Way, studied boys who, in early high school, were willing to call other boys their best friends and say that they love themto depend on them utterly. By the end of high school, Ways subjects didnt have those friends anymore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats needed is a total revolution in the way we raise our children. One way these friendships dissolve is through internalized homophobia. Way writes: As boys enter manhood, they start using the phrase no homo following any intimate statement about their friends, and they begin to say that they dont have time for their male friendships, even though they continue to express strong desires for having such friendships. The slang may be different nowWays book was published in 2011, and Im old and therefore cluelessbut the meaning remains. Citing Ways work, writer Mark Greene described a tweenage friendship that evaporated through neglect because, he realizes in retrospect, his parents were feeling vaguely uncomfortable with his intense affection for his male friend. Way writes: Boys know by late adolescence that their close male friendships, and even their emotional acuity, put them at risk of being labeled girl, immature, or gay. This, to Greene, is a huge loss: We keep the loving natures that once came so naturally to us hidden and locked away, he commented. This training runs so deep, were no longer even conscious of it. Advertisement Part of the reason its so hard for us to talk about the ways patriarchy harms men is the fact that there are already people claiming that the current social order is bad for men, and theyre called mens rights activists. Like feminists whove become conscious of the shortcomings of a patriarchal structure, these groups of red-pilled men resist the idea that they should be required to be strong-jawed, stoic providers who work for their wives comfort. But unlike those feminists, they blame women for their problems. The line between a mens rights forum and a mens therapy group like the ones Hamlett describes starts to look mighty thin when you consider the existence of a borderline case like Jordan Peterson, the professor of psychologyturnedself-help guru who advises men on ways to take control of their depressed lives, while reinforcing the basic patriarchal messages of domination and hierarchy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a tradition of mens rights activists who are anti-patriarchalwho combine trying to feel better in their own lives with an enlightened critique of our social order. In the early 1970s, gatherings of men who explicitly identified themselves as sympathetic to feminism held gatherings titled things like Men Overcoming Sexism. A number of conference activities were simply about men enjoying being with men, learning to communicate and express feelings more openly, Amanda Goldrick-Jones wrote in her history of the pro-feminist mens movements of that time. These organizations focused on encouraging playfulness and practicing emotional closeness. Their newsletters even included articles on child care. (The latter-day equivalent of this might be something like the Good Men Project, where Greene published his essay about his lost friend.) Advertisement I understand why an article like Hamletts goes viral among women. This male-female dynamic, where it exists, can be extremely toxic and burdensome to the women who experience it precisely because the experience of loving men who need us to be ever-present audiences for their problems taps into all our early training in denying ourselves happiness in order to make men feel good. And Id venture to say that in general, women are more hurt by patriarchy than men are. But casting male emotional dependence on women as a transgression perpetrated by individual men also misses an opportunity, Gilligan and Snider would argue, to call men to the barricades in the fight against patriarchy. Because, after all, theyre losing, too. On Tuesday, yet another deadline for someone in Trumps orbit to respond to a congressional subpoena came and went with noncompliance. This time it was former White House counsel Don McGahn, who declined to turn over documents related to allegations he made in his testimony to special counsel Robert Mueller that President Donald Trump sought to have Mueller fired and then asked McGahn to help cover up that effort. In declining to turn over the documents, McGahns lawyer cited a letter from his successor, Pat Cipollone, which said that the records in question cant be turned over because they remain legally protected from disclosure under longstanding constitutional principles, because they implicate significant Executive Branch confidentiality interests and executive privilege. Advertisement President Donald Trump has not asserted executive privilege to keep those documents uncovereda case he might lose in court if he were to make itbut McGahn still used the White Houses wishes as an excuse not to obey the subpoena. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [McGahn] continues to owe certain duties and obligations to the President which he is not free to disregard, his lawyer Bill Burck wrote in a letter to the House Judiciary Committee, which had issued the subpoena. Where co-equal branches of government are making contradictory demands on Mr. McGahn concerning the same set of documents, the appropriate response for Mr. McGahn is to maintain the status quo unless and until the Committee and the Executive Branch can reach an accommodation. Advertisement The upshot? The Judiciary Committee will likely not get the documents willingly from McGahn. In response, Judiciary Chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler wrote a stinging rebuke to Burck and McGahn Tuesday evening demanding either compliance with the subpoena or a privilege log offering specific claims of executive privilege by the president that could then be contested in court. The letter promises to hold McGahn individually in contempt if these demands are not metan outcome that is looking more and more inevitable. No one should be surprised at McGahns unwillingness to play ball with Congress. Democrats should never have pinned their hopes on McGahn to willingly cooperate in the first place. Further, they shouldnt expect him to cooperate with the other part of the subpoena, which demands that he appear before the committee by May 21 and answer questions about the episodes in the Mueller report, even with contempt proceedings looming in the background. Expect McGahn to come up with other, similar excuses in order to avoid testifying about Trumps alleged abuses of power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGahn was arguably the Mueller reports most prominent figurehaving been mentioned more than 150 times and acting as the key witness in some of the most straightforward potential obstruction charges against Trumpand after its release, some argued that McGahn could be the star witness in any Democratic impeachment case against the president. This was always a long shot. While McGahn directly and credibly implicated the president in obstruction of justice during his more than 30 hours of conversations with the Special Counsels Office, he has evinced no desire to take any further steps that might be damaging to the president unless he is forced to by legal obligation. Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, after the release of the Mueller report, McGahns own lawyer was making excuses for the presidents behavior. As the New York Times reported shortly following the release of the report: Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Burck said his client was simply telling the truth under threat of perjury, not accusing the president of illegally obstructing justice. Clients sometimes approach their lawyers with bad ideas, Mr. Burck said. Thats not obstructionit just comes with the territory. Don did his job. Mueller was not removed. The Washington Post also reported at the time that McGahn was showing no eagerness to publicly implicate the president: Advertisement Advertisement Hes not eager to testify. Hes not reluctant. He got a subpoena. It compels him to testify. But there are some countervailing legal reasons that might prevent that, said one person close to McGahn, who described private discussions on the condition of anonymity. He doesnt want to be in contempt of Congress; nor does he want to be in contempt of his ethical obligations and legal obligations as a former White House official. Advertisement Essentially, McGahn appears to be trying to avoid politically hurting the president more than he already has. Trump may ultimately help that effort with an executive privilege claim. And such a claim might work, at least as a stalling tactic while the courts decide whether the claim is valid. During the Watergate scandal, the Supreme Court ruled in U.S. v. Nixon that a general assertion of executive privilegeas opposed to one justified by military or diplomatic confidentialitycannot justify the withholding by the president of relevant evidence. The Nixon ruling was in the context of a criminal case, though, which is not so with Trump. Historically, the courts have sought to find accommodation between Congress and the executive branch in interbranch fights over executive privilege. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many legal observersincluding George Conway and Watergate prosecutor Richard Ben-Venistehave argued that any executive privilege has been clearly waived by McGahn having taken part in conversation with Mueller, and then by the publication of the Mueller report itself. However, there is a case to be made that the president has waived privilege only for the portions of McGahns testimony that are already public. Privilege claims about the rest of McGahns testimony and additional obstruction details not laid out in the report would have to await litigation by the courts. That fight would be politically charged and could take many months, even if the Supreme Courts principle that no person is so high that he is above the law, cited by Mueller in his report, would normally imply that Congress should prevail. Advertisement During any lengthy court fightif it goes that routethe Judiciary Committee might only be able to compel McGahn to come forward and publicly state things he already said under penalty of perjury that were true. As a public spectacle, its hard to imagine that testimony being particularly dramatic. McGahn could also find other ways out of testifying, perhaps citing the bipartisan executive branch doctrine that current and former White House officials cannot be compelled to testify before Congress. The previous White House, for one, argued that Obamas officials are immune from congressional compulsion to testify on matters relating to [their] official duties. Trump might make this case to keep McGahn from talking about anything, including the portions of his testimony where privilege has seemed to be waived. Given McGahns past, no one should be surprised at his unwillingness to play ball with Congress, despite his star testimony in the Mueller investigation. As Leon Neyfakh wrote in Slate in 2017, McGahn has made a career out of using elaborate and sometimes implausible legal loopholes to get out of procedures he loathes [as] unnecessary rules. McGahn doesnt need to love his old boss to end up protecting him. The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday on party lines to recommend that the House of Representatives hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to comply with a subpoena to turn over the unredacted Mueller report and all its underlying evidence. The vote follows an assertion of executive privilege by President Donald Trump over the entire contents of the report and investigation. Barring some last-minute accommodation between the Department of Justice and the Judiciary Committee, the full House of Representatives will now have the opportunity to vote on a contempt charge against Barr. Its not clear when that vote would be taken, and even a full House contempt vote would only be a symbolic prelude to a potential court case that might result in an enforceable legal order requiring Barrs cooperation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The contempt charges themselves are not unprecedentedtop officials in the Reagan, Bush, and Obama White Houses, including Obama-era Attorney General Eric Holder, have faced such votes. Constitutional scholars across the ideological spectrum have noted, however, that the escalation of a fight over a refusal to turn over evidence of potential presidential malfeasance has not occurred since the Nixon administration. (Protected grand jury testimony and evidence related to ongoing cases was redacted from the version of the report that was released publicly; the redacted sections appear to involve subjects including the Trump campaigns attitude toward WikiLeaks publication of hacked Democratic emails and Trumps potential complicity in obstruction of justice involving Roger Stone.) Trump has promised to fight every congressional subpoena issued to his administration and has lived up to that promiseadministration officials have ignored subpoenas related to his tax returns and the administrations security clearance practices, while Trump personally has filed suits to prevent outside institutions from sharing financial information. Fun! Its not weed, but: This weeks cover story is coming straight from Henry Grabars backyard. And probably your backyard, actuallyits about Japanese knotweed, a horrifyingly hardy plant that has taken over backyards, homes, forests, and lives. Get ready to see this Devils Snarelike nuisance everywhere because we probably cant stop it (at least, not without a lot of organized effort and money)! Wait a minute: It has been one week since the failed uprising in Venezuela, in which National Assembly President Juan Guaido did not materialize the level of support needed to remove President Nicolas Maduro from office. While we continue to analyze what went wrong and why, Leon Krauze counsels patience for the outside voices weighing in on the conversation: Led by the presidents bellicose national security adviser, John Bolton, the number of voices within the administration currently lobbying for military action in Venezuela seems to be growing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGone: Former White House counsel Don McGahn was a star character in the Mueller report, wherein it was revealed he refused to fire Robert Mueller at the presidents direction. Maybe because of this, House Democrats expected McGahn to comply with their subpoena for documents related to the incidentbut instead, hes refusing to work with the Dems. Jeremy Stahl explains why McGahn, despite his one good moment, isnt likely to do anything that might hurt his former boss (who claimed executive privilege today, too). Archie, baby: Since the birth of Prince Harry and Meghan Markles exalted baby on Monday, royals watchers have eagerly awaited further details, including the childs name. We were promised his moniker would be both unusual and unifying, a tall order. But as Ruth Graham puts it, Well, guess what? They pulled it off, haters. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor is a truly terrific name for this royal infant. For fun: Detective Pikachu does aerobics. Pulling off a newsletter hat trick today, Dawnthea On Tuesday, Nancy Pelosi followed up a controversial New York Times interview in which she said House Democrats should not impeach Donald Trump with a speech in which she asserted that the president is goading Democrats into impeachment because it would help him politically. Pelosi and her fellow party leaders appear committed to a strategy of repudiating Trumps corruption by waiting for a big Democratic win in the national elections 18 months from now, rather than by exercising their constitutional powers. Advertisement Whats interesting about this is not just that it seemingly misreads the dynamics of the moment, but that it is the same strategy Democrats have used to approach all of this centurys political crises: declining to punish the people responsible for them because of the belief that doing so would be divisive and the expectation that public shamea collective coming to our senseswould prevent the problem from recurring instead. Remarkably, this strategy has failed every time theyve tried it. Look! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Torture: As president, Barack Obama chose not to prosecute any of the individuals who created and carried out the post-9/11 enhanced interrogation system that Obama himself identified as torture. Torturing a criminal suspect or prisoner of war is illegal, but Obama said that he wanted to look forward as opposed to looking backward on the subject. Gina Haspel, who supervised the interrogation of a suspect who was tortured and later destroyed recordings that documented torture, is now the director of the CIA. Now thats going backward! Advertisement Advertisement Iraq: Obama and the Democrats who held both houses of Congress during his presidency also chose not to open any inquiries into the various lies and acts of negligence involved in the George W. Bush administrations invasion of Iraq. (Some official investigations had taken place under Bush, but with one exception they were either led by Republicans or bipartisan Beltway-establishment figures.*) Obamas belief, in sum, seemed to be that merely having replaced the Bush administration with more decent, honest peoplewe are the ones weve been waiting for, he said often during the 2008 campaignwas rebuke enough. These days the Obamas and Bushes are buddies who do funny photo-ops at ceremonial state events. And one of the main Bush administration figures involved in promoting the claim that Saddam Hussein was stockpiling weapons of mass destruction is Trumps national security adviser. Advertisement Advertisement The financial crisis: Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder famously declined to hold any big-bank executives criminally responsible for the vast systematic fraud that created the 2008 crash. These days the culture of non-accountability persists, while Wells Fargo apologizes for a newly uncovered pre-crash-style ripoff scheme every month or so. The Supreme Court: When Antonin Scalia died in early 2016 and Republicans controlled the Senate, Obama nominated highly credentialed, moderate federal Judge Merrick Garland to replace him in the expectation that Republican senators wouldnt be able to sustain a blockade of an obviously qualified, non-radical candidate for an entire year. But they did. Boy, did they ever! Advertisement Advertisement The nomination of Donald Trump: Many Democrats were excited that Donald Trump won the 2016 Republican nomination because, they believed, he would lose the general election bigly (hahahaha) and cause the Republican Party to splinter/explode. Nope! Advertisement Advertisement Not all of these decisions and beliefs were, at the time, obviously stupid, unsupportable, or without precedent. After Watergate, for example, ex-President Richard Crimes Nixon kept his mouth mostly shut for a few decades despite having avoided formal punishment, because of shame. But that was the past, and now shame is dead; it died on Nov. 9, 2016. The era of coming to our senses has passed, and the need to begin the age of actually doing things gets more urgent all the time. PM Narendra Modi is addressing an election rally in New Delhi's Ramlila Maidan. In his speech, PM Modi talked about the achievements of his government, and targeted his opponents. With Phase 6 of the Lok Sabha Elections 2019 nearing, campaigning is in full swing. To begin with, the Prime Minister at a rally in Haryana's Fatehabad criticised the Congress and said that it never spoke up in issues of national security. He also said that the Congress party wants to give full freedom to peple who want to see the country divided. PM Modi will hold a mega rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan. Apart from that BJP chief Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh will hold separate public meetings in the capital city. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi will also campaign in Delhi, while party president Rahul Gandhi will be in Madhya Pradesh. Meanwhile, the convoy of West Bengal BJP chief and Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was attacked in East Midnapore district's Khejuri on Tuesday evening. The BJP held Trinamool Congress responsible for the incident but TMC rubbished the allegation claiming the attack could have been perpetrated by "CPI(M)-sheltered anti-socials". Neither Ghosh nor Sarma was injured but two vehicles were damaged. Additionally, the Election Commission of India declared polls held on 11th April at 168 polling stations of the Tripura West Parliamentary constituency to be void. Re-polls are scheduled to take place on 12th May from 7 am to 5 pm. Follow the Lok Sabha Election 2019 LIVE updates on the BusinessToday.In blog here: 8:10pm: "Gandhi family used INS Viraat as their personal vehicle. This happened during the time of Rajeev Gandhi," said PM Modi 8:00pm: PM Modi opens attack against Congress, with the mention of 1984 Sikh riots, Bofors case and Bhopal gas tragedy. 7:58pm: Without taking names, PM Modi targeted the AAP government in Delhi. 7:57pm: "We have focussed on making the lives of the middle class in Delhi easier. Be it ensuring easier & cheaper housing, cheaper bills for mobile phones & medicines or exempting the income upto Rs. 5 lakh/year from tax net, they have been at the core of our governance," the PM said. 7:55pm: "Pollution is a major problem for Delhi. The solution to this problem is in better use of technology and modern means of transportation. Expansion of Metro network, policies related to solar sector, or next-generation infrastrcuture development, the people of Delhi will reap the benefits of these soon," PM Modi said. 7:53pm: During his speech, the Prime Minister listed crucial policy decisions, like bringing taxable income down to Rs 5 lakh, PM Aawaas Yojana and RERA,taken during by his government. 7:52pm: "We have simplified the process to open a new company. Earlier it used to take 7-15 days. Now it is done within 24 hours," PM Modi said. 7:50pm: "My government has not only worked to enhance ease of doing business but has also ensured ease of living for the people. We have repealed more than 1,400 obsolete, unnecessary laws that hindered smooth daily lives of the citizens," PM Modi said. 7:50pm: "How is inflation, which used to be a major issue every election, is in control today. The opposition is not able to say anything about it," the Prime Minister said. 7:49pm: "GST has ended the web of taxes in India. GST has been designed to rid the country of 'Inspector Raj'," said PM Modi. 7:45pm: "I do not have the habit of living behind bullet-proof walls. I have tried to keep this wall aside whenever I got the chance. Often when I am surrounded by poepl while travelling via Delhi Metro, these are memorable moments for me," PM Modi said. 7:37pm: Visuals from PM Narendra Modi's rally in Delhi's Ramlila Ground. LIVE : PM Shri @narendramodi is addressing a public meeting in Ramlila Ground, Delhi. #ModiHiAayegahttps://t.co/jFUOih9fFe BJP (@BJP4India) May 8, 2019 7:32pm: PM Narendra Modi arrives at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan to address a public meeting. Visuals below. 7:12pm: Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi and party' candidate from South Delhi seat, boxer Vijender Singh, hold a roadshow in Dakshinpuri area. Delhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Congress South Delhi candidate Vijender Singh hold a roadshow in Dakshinpuri pic.twitter.com/5bwBkd3K9V ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 6:50pm: Rahul Gandhi is in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh where he is addressing an election rally. 6:27pm: VIsuals from Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi where PM Narendra Modi will address a rally in a while. Delhi: Visuals from Ramlila Maidan where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a public rally, shortly. pic.twitter.com/M06uWSJ45D ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 6:15pm: Delhi High Court has dismissed a PIL which sought restraint on Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party from making electoral promise of full statehood for Delhi. 5:41pm: "A Delhi girl is openly challenging you. Contest that last two phases on the issues of demonetisation, on GST, on women security, and on your false promises that you made to the youth of the nation," Priyanka Gandhi said during her event in Delhi. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Delhi: Ek Dilli ki ladki apko khuli chunauti de rahi hai.Chunav ke akhiri 2 charan notebandi par ladiye,GST par ladiye,mahilaon ki suraksha par ladiye aur un vadon par ladiye jo aapne poore desh ke naujawano se jhoothe vaade kiye,dhokha diya un par ladiye pic.twitter.com/FIoIIZ6OL0 ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 4:30 pm: Sheila Dikshit, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra hold a roadshow in Brahmpuri, Delhi Delhi: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Congress North East Delhi candidate Sheila Dikshit hold a roadshow in Brahmpuri pic.twitter.com/O3pn2q1wci - ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 4:00 pm: PM Narendra Modi, while accusing Congress of backing the 'tukde, tukde gang', said that it wants to give full freedom to those who support terrorism. (ANI) 3:45 pm: Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, during a rally in Bhind, Madhya Pradesh, that whenever he says 'Chowkidar chor hai', he says it with proof. 3:20pm: Robert Vadra says: "There are glaring issues such as poverty, joblessness, women empowerment etc which are staring right at you, but you chose to talk about me, out of everything else.." 3:10pm: DMK MP RS Bharathi addressed a letter to the Election Commissioner of India and the Tamil Nadu Chief Electoral Officer seeking a clarification to the sudden movement of the EVMs and VVPATs to Theni and Erode. The letter has also requested that no movements of the same be made without informing political parties or representatives in the area. 3:00pm: Rahul Gandhi speaks at a rally in Bhind, madhya Pradesh. 2:55pm: "Without paying heed to their abuse, I have been serving the nation to the best of my capabilities. Haryana too has witnessed significant changes in the past five years," said PM Modi during his speech at Kurukshetra, Haryana. 2:47pm: I do not allow the Congress and its allies to act arbitrarily. I stop their corruption. I talk about their nepotism. That's why they keep criticising me wearing a mask of love, PM Modi said. 2:45pm: Since Independence, the water which righfully belongs to India's farmers has been going to Pakistan. This chowkidaar has vowed to deliver every drop of water to the nation's farmers that they are entitled to, PM Modi said in Kurukshetra. 2:42pm: "After Balakot (air strike), Pakistan captured one of our brave sons. They had to release him within 48 hours. Then Congress and its courtiers started praising the Pakistan PM. They even demanded a Nobel prize for him," PM Modi said. 2:34pm: "People of the Mahamilawat like Pakistan's actions, but criticise those who work for the pride of the nation. They are so fond of Pakistan that they give credit for India's success to Pakistan," PM Modi said. 2:32pm: "Your one vote has helped to deliver necessary amenities to people of the nation. Your vote for the lotus flower (BJP poll symbol) will help pave the way for a prosperous India," PM Modi said at his Kurkshetra rally. 2:25pm: Amit Shah addresses a rally in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. 2:22pm: PM Narendra Modi at an election rally in Kurukshetra, Haryana. See visuals. 2:20pm: 'Common enemy is Modi and NDA. That is why, regional parties can't join NDA; there shall be a combination of opposition parties who will definitely form coalition government,' said senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily. 2:10pm: In a roadshow in Bhopal, FIR registered after a group of people raised pro-Modi slogans during Congress leader Digvijay Singh's rally. Madhya Pradesh: FIR registered after a group of people raised Modi slogans in Congress candidate Digvijaya Singh's roadshow in Bhopal. ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 2:00pm: The BJP has lodged its protest with the Election Commission over 'delay' in action against the AAP leaders including CM Arvind Kejriwal, on complaints of model code of conduct violations. 1:50 pm: "Congress is neither worried about soldiers nor the farmers. The party has cultivated corruption on farmers' land", said PM Modi 1:35pm: "Some people get angry when we take the name of Lord Ram and they get angry when we say Bharat Mata ki Jai. Why do they get so angry?" asked Prakash Javadekar at a press conference. 1:20pm: "CWG, 2G, Bofors, and numerous other scams happened during the Congress rule - that's the identity of Congress," said BJP leader Prakash Javadekar at a press conference. 1:10pm: AAP leader and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said, "She (Priyanka Gandhi) is wasting her time. Why doesn't she campaign in Rajasthan and MP?" Delhi CM A Kejriwal: She (Priyanka Gandhi) is wasting her time,why doesn't she campaign in Rajasthan&MP?She's doing rallies in UP against SP-BSP,she's doing rallies in Delhi against AAP. Both the brother&the sister aren't going to those places where there's direct fight with BJP. pic.twitter.com/jTEsOmIJjT ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 12:58pm: PM Modi said in Fatehabad, "This shameless Congress is awarding those who were a part of the crime. By making a person who is said to be involved in 1984 Anti-Sikh riots the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Congress has proved that it doesn't care about your sentiments." 12:55pm: PM Modi said in Fatehabad, "In 1984 thousands of Sikh families in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and across the country were murdered under the instructions of the Congress family and its coterie. Even after 34 years, the Sikh community has not got justice." 1984 , , - 34 : #ModiHiAayega BJP (@BJP4India) May 8, 2019 12:47pm: "One one hand, we are working tirelessly for the benefits of the farmers, and on the other hand Congress has spread its web of lies and corruption," said PM Modi in Fatehabad. 12:42pm: "Congress who has problems saying Bharat Mata ki Jai is now working to remove the sedition law too. Congress wants to give full freedom to the tukde-tukde gang, people who abuse the country and the Tricolour and the Naxals," said PM Modi in Fatehabad. 12:35pm: "This chowkidaar has taken the person who looted farmers to court. He is making rounds of ED and court to take bail. He used to think he is Shahenshah, now he is nervous. I've already taken him to the jail door. Give blessings and I'll put him in jail within next the next 5 years," said PM Modi in Fatehabad. 12:30pm: "Pakistan has been forced to take action against Masood Azhar. Even after trying for 5-6 years, Congress could not do this. Why? Because there was no integrity," said PM Modi in Fatehabad, Haryana. 12:25pm: PM Modi at a rally in Fatehabad said, "Tell me, can any country become a global power without securing its borders first?" 12:24pm: PM Modi at a rally in Fatehabad said, "Congress' history shows that they could never speak up when it came to national security. Before 2014, every second day Pakistani terrorists would attack the armed forces but the government would only issue a statement." 12:20pm: PM Modi at a rally in Fatehabad said, "Five phases of the Lok Sabha Elections have been completed and the situation is very clear now. With the blessings of the citizens, we will form the government on May 23." 12:14pm: Delhi HC dismisses a PIL seeking direction to restrain Aam Aadmi Party & Delhi CM from making full statehood promises to Delhi as an electoral promise and advertising about it. Petition filed by one Anil Dutt Sharma stated that it is a false agenda of the party: ANI. 12:11pm: An election watchdog has pointed out discrepancies in the income tax details submitted by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress candidates in their nominations for the Panaji Assembly bypoll in Goa. In a release issued on Tuesday, the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) said the affidavits filed by AAP nominee Valmiki Naik for the 2017 state Assembly elections and the upcoming bypoll show a difference of over Rs 1 lakh in his I-T returns for the financial year 2015-16. It also pointed out that Congress candidate Atanasio Monserratte in his affidavit for the upcoming bypoll has mentioned his I-T returns for 2015-16 as Rs 24,50,076, which is Rs 34,746 less than the Rs 24,84,822 figure submitted by him in his 2017 Assembly election affidavit. 12:08pm: "We and the organisers of the event had enrolled volunteers, and we have no say in as to what volunteers wear. No police personnel wore scarves of any color," said Bhopal DIG. Police personnel at Digvijaya Singh's rally were seen wearing saffron scarves. 12:02pm: Dinesh Lal Yadav 'Nirahua' talks about if Bhojpuri actors and BJP candidates Ravi Kisan, Manoj Tiwari and he will win: "All 3 of us will win. Reason behind it isn't that we are very capable, we'll win because we're with the truth & with what public wants. The public wants Modi Ji as the PM." 12:00pm: Campaigning for Congress' Bathinda candidate Amrinder Singh Raja Warring, his wife Amrita Warring slammed sitting MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal for "doing nothing" for the constituency in a decade. Campaigning aggressively in the villages of the Bathinda Lok Sabha constituency, Amrita Warring said, "I have so far covered 190 villages and I am very sad to see their plight. Every villager is asking for basic facilities like roads, schools etc." 11:57am: The ECI had earlier said that there would be a delay of four to five hours on May 23 due to EVM-VVPAT count. 11:53am: PM Modi said that nothing is as satisfying as changing people's lives. Nothing is as satisfying as transforming peoples lives. Youll be happy to watch this from Jayapur in my parliamentary constituency, Varanasi. https://t.co/sdEhhS2DmY Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 8, 2019 11:45am: Rahul Gandhi said people are turning up tp vote for NYAY. Across India, its not just young people who are coming out in large numbers to vote for NYAY; older more experienced voters too have understood how powerful the idea is. Modi Ji, your time is up. The time for change has come. #AbHogaNYAYpic.twitter.com/SZit7MEl5p Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 8, 2019 11:35am: Visuals from Priyanka Gandhi's roadshow in Rohtak yesterday. 11:25am: Supreme Court refuses to pass any order on the petition filed by Congress MP Sushmita Dev, seeking direction to the Election Commission to take appropriate action against PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah for their alleged hate speeches. 11:15am: SC asks Election Commission to examine by tomorrow the plea of former BSF constable Tej Bahadur Yadav against rejection of his nomination from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. Samajwadi Party had fielded Tej Bahadur as its candidate against PM Modi from the constituency: ANI. 10:50am: One Manoj Kashyap from Amethi has written a letter in blood to the EC. He said that he was 'traumatised' by the statements of the PM against late Rajiv Gandhi. He added that for the people of Amethi, anyone who insults the late PM is no different than those who assassinated him. 10:45am: Rahul Gandhi's fresh affidavit tenders "unconditional apology to the Supreme Court for unintentionally and inadvertently linking SC order" in Rafale review plea to his "cowkidar chor hai" political jibe against PM Narendra Modi. 10:36am: Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu met Rahul Gandhi at his residence. Delhi: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met Congress President Rahul Gandhi at the latter's residence today pic.twitter.com/vK7MwXHUnV ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 10:35am: Visuals from Congress' Digvijaya Singh's roadshow in Bhopal. Bhopal: #Visuals from the roadshow of Computer Baba and Digvijay Singh (Congress candidate from Bhopal Parliamentary constituency). #MadhyaPradeshpic.twitter.com/iovEGWJuxS ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 10:25am: Police personnel in civil uniform seen wearing saffron scarves at the roadshow of Computer Baba and Congress' Digvijay Singh. Bhopal: Police personnel in civil uniform seen wearing saffron scarves at the roadshow of Computer Baba and Digvijay Singh (Congress candidate from the Lok Sabha seat); a policewoman says "we've been made to wear this". #MadhyaPradeshpic.twitter.com/RN8UUN2oMC ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 10:15am: Akshay Kumar thanks Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju for his support to the actor over his citizenship row. Thank you so much @KirenRijiju Sir, and I apologise for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to #BharatKeVeer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what https://t.co/W1298prsEQ Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) May 7, 2019 9:55am: The Supreme Court on Wednesday will hear the plea of Congress that has challenged the Election Commission's decision to give clean chit to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah in a hate speech complaint case. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for petitioner Sushmita Dev, claimed the EC had not given any reason for clean chit to Modi and Shah. 9:42am: Hours after a Bihar court granted him bail in a poll code violation case for making controversial remarks against the Muslim community, Union minister Giriraj Singh on Tuesday said anybody can make a film like 'Sexy Durga' but nobody has the courage to make one on Prophet Mohammed or Fatima. 9:38am: PM Modi's Vijay Sankalp rally will begin at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan at 5.30 pm. Amit Shah and Union Minister Rajnath Singh will address separate rallies at DDA Park in Vasant Kunj and Shastri Park in Delhi. 9:33am: Delhi University professors got into a war of words over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about late Rajiv Gandhi, with one section condemning the comments and another supporting him. As many as 207 DU teachers issued a statement on Monday night against Modi for making "derogatory and untrue" remarks about former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. It was followed a statement by 121 teachers on Tuesday in favour of Modi and accusing Gandhi of "corruption". The statements from the two sections came after Modi had targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale issue in a rally on Saturday, where he said: "Your father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as corrupt number 1." 9:31am: Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam said in Varanasi, "I feel that the person that people here have chosen - Narendra Modi is actually the modern incarnation of Aurangzeb." 9:30am: Polls held on 11th April at 168 polling stations of the Tripura West Parliamentary constituency declared void. In the latest example of a practice sometimes called lunch shaming, a school district in Rhode Island has announced that it will soon give its students with unpaid lunch debt only sunflower seed butter and jelly sandwiches, while other students still have the option to choose from a variety of hot meals. The decision was announced on Sunday and will go into effect on May 13, according to Warwick Public Schools. The school district, which has more than 9,000 students, has said it has 1,653 families with outstanding lunch debt. In the Providence suburb, nearly 40 percent of students have qualified for free or reduced-price lunches. Advertisement A district official told the Providence Journal that the policy is necessary, as the district is owed more than $40,000 in lunch money (other officials told other local news outlets that the total is closer to $77,000) and is operating on a budget deficit in the millions. The district has said it will continue to serve the sandwichesas others are offered hot sandwiches, salads, tacos, pizza, hummus, and even sometimes pancakes and eggsuntil those students have paid their parents debts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district told the Journal that the decision targeted parents who could afford to pay for the lunches but didnt as well as parents who are experiencing hardship and havent filled out paperwork to get financial assistance. According to NBC News, while many school lunches are served for free or at a reduced price based on family income, some parents have said even those who qualify for free lunches can still owe money, as children can add items to their tray, such as milk, that arent included in the free lunch. In other cases, as the Washington Post notes, parents income can just barely pass the threshold for subsidized meals, leaving the family hard hit by the full-priced meals. And some immigrant families have become afraid of the unknown consequences of asking for assistance under the current administration. Advertisement Advertisement The district faced an immediate backlash from critics, who pointed out that the students should not be punished or shamed for their parents finances and argued that it is cruel to highlight wealth differences in a school setting. Others have noted that a jelly sandwich is not a balanced meal and that, especially in cases where children are not getting breakfast or healthy dinners outside the school day, the students ability to focus and perform well in classes can suffer. Advertisement One restaurant owner in Warwick said she tried donating $4,000 to help pay off the students debts but the district turned her offer down. The district released a statement saying that the woman had approached them on a number of occasions with funds she gathered from the community to pay some of the debt. Each time these offers were made, Warwick Public Schools stated that the school department was not in the position to single out or identify specific students that should be selected for a reduction in their lunch debt while excluding others, the district said in the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district then recommended the woman create a program to determine which students should be eligible for the debt relief before making the donations. The business owner has maintained a position that they want to make a single, large donation to the district while leaving the student selection process to the school department, the district said. This is a position that the school department cannot support given the schools mission to treat all children equitably. In December, schools in the neighboring Cranston hired a collection agency to track down families with outstanding school debt, according to the Journal. A bill that would mandate hot lunches for all students has been introduced to the state Legislature but not yet passed. A school shooting in suburban Denver Tuesday left one student dead, at least seven others injured, and two suspects, also students, in custody. School staff alerted police after shooting started minutes before 2 p.m. in the middle school of the K-12 STEM School Highlands Ranch. The school does not have a school resource officer on campus, but hires private security and is situated near a police station. Deputies arrived within two minutes of the call, according to authorities, and heard shots being fired as they arrived on the scene. Advertisement Two individuals walked in to the STEM school, got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. Police have identified one of the shooters as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. The two alleged shooters were a juvenile male and an adult male, both students, according to police. We did not have them on any radar that we know of, Spurlock said. A handgun was recovered at the school. The STEM school, a public charter school with some 1,800 students, was placed on lockdown after the shooting, while other schools in the county were temporarily placed on lockout. Tuesdays shooting comes less than three weeks after the 20th anniversary of the Columbine school shooting, which is located eight miles away. At first, at least, the plan looked promising. In the early morning of April 30, Juan Guaido, Venezuelas opposition leader and internationally recognized interim president, appeared outside La Carlota Air Base in Carlota to announce what he called the end of the usurpation: a wide-ranging operation to force Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro out of power. A few feet behind Guaido, stern and rigid, fists clenched, stood Leopoldo Lopez, Venezuelas most famous political prisoner, who had been held under house arrest by the Maduro regime. As the sun slowly came up over Caracas, Guaido and a handful of soldiers had set him free. Advertisement A few seconds into the video, Guaidos speech took on a persuasive tone. There was no mistaking his target audience. Our armed forces, Guaido said, brave soldiers, brave patriots, brave men who believe in the constitution have heeded our call. A gifted orator, Guaido was counting on mass insurgency within Venezuelas army, a crucial collaborator in Maduros authoritarian stranglehold on the country. Guaido then instructed Venezuelans to take to the streets and begin what would be, he reckoned, the beginning of the end of the despotic Maduro regime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the vast majority of Venezuelans, who have watched their country be dismantled first by strongman Hugo Chavez, who died in 2013, and then by Maduro, a leader whose authoritarian disposition has sadly matched his governing ineptitude, Guaidos early-morning statement must have felt like a shot at redemption. Advertisement Advertisement Hope was short-lived. Guaidos plans failed completely. It took only a few hours for Guaidos Operation Freedom to collapse under the weight of its own ambition. Venezuelans didnt take to the streets in droves, like they had done in an impressive way just weeks before. Venezuelas top military brass didnt break ranks with Maduro, even though the opposition claimed to have secured pledges from them to do so ahead of time. Lopez eventually sought refuge at the Spanish Embassy. After having vanished for a few hours, Maduro himself reappeared to claim victory. I thank the Venezuelan people for their courage, strength and conscience to face this failed coup attempt, he tweeted. What went wrong? Advertisement The breakdown of Guaidos latest attempt at dislodging Maduro and his cronies was a reality check for most Venezuelans. In a recent chronicle of the failed uprising, Spanish newspaper El Pais raises the possibility that Guaido jumped the gun, hastening the beginning of the operation against Maduro without properly notifying those in the military who had agreed to facilitate a transition and unilaterally deciding to free Lopez, whose presence and visibility perhaps irritated parts of the already-fractured Venezuelan opposition. Advertisement Moises Naim, a fellow at the Carnegie Endowment and former Venezuelan government minister, says the true allegiance of the countrys military is still a real mystery. For instance, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez seemed to be for the plot before he was against it. There are 2,000 generals in Venezuela. Not even NATO has that many, Naim said in a recent interview with Colombias El Tiempo newspaper. Theres enormous fragmentation within the armed forces. Its a very opaque and fragmented constellation of actors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the Trump administration, which has supported and recognized Guaido along with more than 50 other countries, the culprit lies elsewhere. A few hours after the plan failed, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blamed Russia. Maduro had an airplane on the tarmac. He was ready to leave this morning as we understand it and the Russians indicated he should stay. He was heading for Havana, Pompeo told CNN, without offering evidence to back the claim. For Spanish journalist Maite Rico, an experienced voice in the region, Guaidos failed operation offers definitive proof of Cubas deep involvement in Venezuela. Cuba, Rico says, has latched onto Venezuela like a parasite: Venezuelas oil has helped Cubas regime survive for 20 years. Havana is now trying to save its host even if that means prolonging the suffering of the Venezuelan people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whatever the cause, the breakdown of Guaidos latest attempt at dislodging Maduro and his cronies was a reality check for most Venezuelans. For Naim, years of misery have taken a toll on the countrys expectations. Desperation has made us forget that turning a dictatorship into a democracy is not an instantaneous, painless, or easy process, Naim said. It is never a linear process. It takes a while, but we should not falter. Venezuelan writer Alberto Barrera Tyszka agrees. In a recent piece for the New York Times, Barrera argues that Guaidos failure once again proves that [Venezuelas] institutional void cannot be filled with violence. Its another reminder that democracy can only be legitimized through the vote, not guns. Advertisement Unfortunately, while Venezuelans like Naim and Barrera still urge patience, other actors seem prepared for harsher measures. Led by the presidents bellicose national security adviser, John Bolton, the number of voices within the administration currently lobbying for military action in Venezuela seems to be growing. Other voices close to President Donald Trumplike Sen. Marco Rubio, who has previously argued the merits of possible military intervention in Venezuelaare apparently choosing to err on the side of caution. This is still the correct path. For Venezuelan journalist and Washington Post columnist Quico Toro, potential American military action on Venezuelan soil would likely mean a turn for the worse. Id say there would be a 10 percent chance that [U.S.] Marines could solve the problem, Toro told me recently. But theres a much bigger chance that they would ignite a civil war or would simply destroy the Venezuelan army and leave an unmanageable mess behind. If the United States interventionist history in Latin America shows us anything, Toros scenario would be the direst possible outcome for the long-suffering Venezuelan people. Donald Trump must find it within himself to show restraint. When I was traveling in Australia recently, I had to explain repeatedly at restaurants and shops that my credit card actually had to be physically inserted into a machine in order to pay for something. Everyone in Sydney seemed to be using contactless payments that allowed them to just tap their credit cards to pay for things. It reminded me of the experience, not so many years ago, of explaining to foreign merchants that my credit card didnt have a microchip and they had to swipe it. Of course, now that I finally have microchips in my cards, the rest of the world appears to be moving on. Advertisement Microchip credit cards officially took off in the United States when payment card companies announced a liability shift would go into effect in October 2015, forcing banks that didnt issue chip-enabled cards and merchants that didnt read those chips to cover the costs of any resulting fraud. So, years after Australia and most countries in Europe made the shift, U.S. banks and merchants finally began investing in microchip cards and the payment terminals needed to read them. It was a massively expensive undertaking for both the banks that had to reissue all their old credit cards and the stores that had to replace all their old payment terminals, but it was supposed to be worth it because it would dramatically drive down fraud by making it harder for criminals to steal our payment card numbers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as security journalist Brian Krebs reported last week, data from Gemini Advisory suggests that the chip cards have not necessarily dramatically reduced payment card fraud so much as they have shifted it online. Gemini tracks black markets for stolen data to monitor how much those records are sold for and how widely they are available. Since many cybercriminals are driven by financial motivesi.e., they steal data because they want to make moneythese prices are often a good indicator of what kinds of organizations and data sources are likely to be targeted. For instance, in 2014, as the U.S. was beginning to shift to chip cards, reports indicated that complete medical records were worth 10 times as much as stolen credit card numbers on the black market. There are many possible explanations for this: a glut of available stolen card numbers, concerns about the new chip technology making it harder to use those numbers, improving fraud detection and prevention systems being piloted by the banks and payment card networks. Meanwhile, medical records could be used to conduct lucrative insurance fraud and identity theft schemes. But regardless of the reason, the rising value of medical records spurred a wave of breaches directed at hospitals and medical insurance companies. Advertisement Its now become easier to steal payment information from online stores and also easier to conduct fraud online. Now, however, the value of stolen payment card numbers is on the rise again, according to Krebs report. But its the value of payment card data stolen from online merchants that has doublednot the card data stolen from point-of-sale terminals and brick-and-mortar retailers. This is a significant reversal for cybercriminals, since point-of-sale data used to be the gold standard for stolen payment card information; it came from cards that were still active, since they were being used to pay for things at the time they were stolen and, more importantly, contained all the information needed to manufacture a fraudulent physical card. The big money in payment card data breaches came from selling those fraudulent physical cards, since they allowed people to walk into stores and make purchases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This card-present fraud had a significant advantage over buying things online with stolen credit card numbers, also called card-not-present fraud. For one thing, when you purchase something in a store, you dont need to provide a shipping address or any information about how to deliver the purchase that could be traced back to you when the card is reported stolen. If the stolen card number is just used to purchase a service online (say, a Netflix subscription), rather than a physical item, that service can be canceled when the fraud is discovered. For this reason, data that could be used to manufacture physical card replicas used to sell for $15 to $20 per card, while online retail breach records that yielded data that could only be used for card-not-present fraud went for closer to $2 to $8 per account, according to Krebs analysis of Geminis data. Now the median price of both types of data is roughly equal, hovering around $15 per stolen record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats because its now harder to manufacture fraudulent credit cards, because of the expense and complexity of forging a microchip. Plus, thanks to that microchip, many payment terminals for card-present transactions now store only a one-time code for a transaction rather than the actual card number. When you make online purchases, however, the microchip becomes irrelevantyou still just have to type in your card number and expiration date and security code. So its now become easier to steal payment information from online stores and also easier to conduct fraud online, because theres no need to create a fancy imitation microchip card with your stolen data. Plus, there are more opportunities to find peoples billing addresses online even if theyre not included in stolen data sets (though usually they are when the data is stolen from an online retailer). Advertisement Advertisement With demand for their data on the rise, online retailers have been targeted more frequently for breaches in the past year. In 2018, there was a 14 percent increase in payment card records stolen through e-commerce breaches, according to Gemini, though the vast majority continue to be stolen at point-of-sale devices (many of them at small businesses that did not make the shift to reading card chips or at gas stations, which were given extra time to implement the new payment technologies). For online retailers, the message is clear: Theyre a richer target for hackers than ever before, and they need to take seriously the threat of data breaches and invest heavily in securing customer payment data. For individuals worried about keeping their own money safe, the lessons are much the same as they were before microchips: Monitor your credit card bills closely, report any suspicious activity immediately, and perhaps pay a little extra attention to online purchases that youre not sure you remember making, even if the website looks familiar or the charge is relatively small. Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. For years, Google I/O, the internet giants annual conference for software developers, emphasized the degree to which mobile phones were morphing in a profound way. Theyd evolved from mostly stand-alone devices, albeit connected to voice and data networks, to devices that did relatively little of the actual machine processing that was making them so useful. The heavy lifting increasingly took place inside the megabrain called Google. It was powered by complex and opaque software and hardware that massaged and moved informationmostly collected from you and mearound globe-spanning data centers. Our devices were becoming displays (and input systems) for Big Techs universe, where the real intelligence lived. Advertisement The power of that model was astonishing. Nowhere was it more obvious than in Google Maps, which for me (and Im betting a lot of other people) is the single most essential use of my mobile phone, after conversations of various kinds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But at this weeks I/O in Mountain View, California, Google announced that it would shift some of the most essential intelligence back to Android devices. Not tomorrow, but soon. What Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced in his keynote talk was what he termed a significant milestonemade possible by the seemingly never-ending improvements in hardware and softwarethat would put vastly more processing power into the phone itself for one of the most important features Google and the rest of the tech industry have been working on: voice recognition. Advertisement Advertisement Until now, Pichai said, Google has needed about 100 gigabytes of storage on its servers, plus a constant network connection, to make voice recognition work at a good-enough level for each users everyday use. Pichai said advances have given the company the ability to bring that 100 gigabytes down to 500 megabytes and move it directly into the users mobile device. This eliminates network-caused delays and, he said, will be transformative in how people use their mobile devices. The first example of this will be in Google Assistant, the voice-driven feature of newer Android phones that lets you tell the device what you want it to do for you and get answers to your questions. The keynote demo of this running solely on the phone was more than impressive. We users of devices havent seen this yetGoogle says this wont arrive until the next generation of phones appears later this year, and its not clear whether the capability will be added to current phones. Advertisement Advertisement Whats most intriguing about this shift in power back to the users devices is what it suggests. A related I/O announcement gives us a hint at some of the possibilities. For one thing, Google says its working on ways to keep more of users personal data on the devices and not in the companys data banks. Advertisement Advertisement Google calls a key element of this initiative federated learning, and is deploying it first in its Gboard mobile keyboard software. Its creepy to realize that a mobile screen keyboard could easily be capturing and sending back to someone elses storage everything you type. One reason to do this is to learn how people are using devices and improve the quality of data entry for the user. Federated learning means that what you type stays right in your device. Only when a lot of other people are entering the same kinds of words and phrases does the mother ship learn thatand no ones personal data ends up in the corporate servers. Advertisement Advertisement This kind of system, which Apple already uses to a degree, has great potential to help protect privacy. Whether the promise will survive corporate imperatives remains to be seen, but as our personal devices get more power and storage, there are fewer reasonsother than corporate surveillancefor companies to hold on to it. Advertisement Advertisement The main reason theyll keep a lot of our data is that well ask them to, unfortunately. The convenience of cloud storage, for backups and having access from any device, has made it part of how we work. But there are other ways to back up and have access to our personal information without handing it all over to Google and other giant companies. We should be learning more about them and using them. Not everything will move to our phones anytime soon. Google Maps is a classic example of why not. If we want real-time traffic information from Google, theres only one way well get it: from the network. This will be true of some other apps and services, but over time, as the devices we hold in our hands get more and more powerful in every way, the possibilities grow for new ways to use them. Personally, Im looking forward to a genuine, full-function Star Trek tricorder. Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. The plague has, at various points in history, been responsible for wiping out over half of the human beings in Europe, killing some 10,000 people a day in what is now Istanbul, and possibly even felling the Roman Empire. At the beginning of this month, the plague again reared its head and killed a couple in Mongolia. The Washington Posts two-beat headline sums it up superlatively well: A couple ate raw marmot believed to have health benefits. Then, they died of the plague. Advertisement While it makes sense, cosmically, that the plague would be yet another thing happening in the year of 2019 , the plague never actually went anywhere. We just have modern health precautions for avoiding it now, as we do for many illnesses that are just a couple bites of undercooked meat away from killing us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each year in the U.S., an average of seven people still get the plague. The most common is bubonic, though theyre all caused by the same bacteria. But its really a wildlife disease, biologist Nils Christian Stenseth told Pacific Standard earlier this year. Its caused by bacteria that likes to live in rodents, though within the past year, three cats in Wyoming have been diagnosed with the plague, too. Flea bites are the main way it spreads to humans, according to a fact sheet from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You can also get it from touching, skinning, being coughed onor presumably, wholesale ingestingan animal with the plague. Especially sick cats, notes the fact sheet, which means the Wyoming cat owners ought to be careful. Dogs can get the plague too, which is why the CDC further advises that you dont let them sleep in your bed in plague-y areas of the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement What are those areas? Mostly Western states. Plague arrived here at the beginning of the 20th century via rats hitching rides on ships from Asia, where it spread to rodents in states including California and New Mexico (a location in which I have recently snuggled my dog!). The prairie dog can also get the plague, in fact, it is the CDC fact sheets poster-animal for the infection. The Badlands National Park in South Dakota where plague was detected in the animals in 2009, is outfitted with dramatic signs that warn PRAIRIE DOGS HAVE PLAGUE! Visitors are advised not to get too close to the cuddly critters. Advertisement This all sounds scary, understandably, as its the PLAGUE. But while outbreaks still occurone killed 209 people in Madagascar in 2017if youre in the U.S., youre probably just fine. We can thank modern protections like bug spray, flea treatment, and latex gloves for keeping us separated from the bacteria that transmit it. The last urban epidemic in the U.S. was in 1925 in LA, according to the CDC. Theres also a plague vaccine, but the disease is so rare that its not even available in the States. And even if you do get the plague, you probably will not die from it: from 2000-2017, it killed a grand total of12 people in the U.S. That low number is thanks to antibiotics. Just the same, stay away from the prairie dogs, and cook your marmots thoroughly. Listen to If Then by clicking the arrow on the audio player below, or get the show via Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, Stitcher, or Google Play. Get More If Then Slate Plus members get extended, ad-free versions of our podcastsand much more. Sign up today. Join Slate Plus Subscribe to If Then Copy this link and add it in your podcast app. copy link copied! For detailed instructions, see our Slate Plus podcasts page. In this episode, April Glaser is joined once again by guest co-host Meredith Broussard, a data journalism professor at New York University and author of Artificial Unintelligence: How Computers Misunderstand the World. First, historian Mar Hicks joins the show to talk about the tech industrys longtime aversion to organized labor and how thats clashing with recent worker actions at major tech companies like Google and Uber. Advertisement Then, Alexis Madrigal joins the hosts to talk about his recent piece in the Atlantic called The End of Cyberspace, where he argues that the 90s dream of an unregulated internet is starting to fade. According to Madrigal, its time to create a new alluring vision for what cyberspace should be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stories discussed on the show: The End of Cyberspace How to Tell if the Uber Strike Is Working What the Google Protests Really Need to Achieve Dont Close My Tabs: Meredith: The Raisin Situation April: The Chinese Surveillance State, Part 1 and The Chinese Surveillance State, Part 2 Podcast production by Cameron Drews. You can follow April @Aprilaser and Meredith @merbroussard. If you have a question or comment, you can email us at ifthen@slate.com. If Then is presented by Slate and Future Tense, a collaboration among Arizona State University, New America, and Slate. Future Tense explores the ways emerging technologies affect society, policy, and culture. To read more, follow us on Twitter and sign up for our weekly newsletter. The Bettors Delight mare Bettors Up made her debut for Nick Surick a successful one, sweeping wide off cover and taking the $17,500 distaff pacing feature on the Tuesday twilight at The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono in 1:51.4. Matt Kakaley guided the winner of $772,254 (one of the best of her division in her filly stakes days) into second-over position, then tipped her three wide approaching headstretch. Bettors Up, now five, paced strongly through the stretch as the 2-1 favourite to defeat the longest shot on the board, Culinary Delight N, by one-and-three-quarter lengths. Trainer Surick got control of the winner after his Nick Surick Stable LLC acquired her after her last start. The Sportswriter mare Write Me A Song wrote herself a new mark of 1:50.1 in going wire-to-wire in the $14,000 co-featured pace. Driver Tyler Buter took control from the pole at the outset with Write Me A Song, hustling the winner of $243,777 through fractions of :26.2, :54.1, and 1:22.1 in progress to a two-and-a-half length victory for trainer Lance Hudson and owner William S. Hartt. There will be plenty of great racing the next two cards at Pocono, with the Pennsylvania All-Stars for three-year-old colt pacers going in three divisions on Saturday, May 11 and then $30,000 contests in the Great Northeast Open Series for open trotters and open mare pacers topping the Sunday, May 12 card. (with files from PHHA) New York Sire Stakes season got underway on Tuesday night (May 7), as Yonkers Raceway hosted the Joe Goldstein Trot for three-year-old fillies. The lasses competed in three divisions. Two six-horse fields offered $54,833 apiece, but it was the $53,833 five-horse event that saw With Out A Doubt produce the fastest winning mile. The first of two happy half-dozen sire stakes events was won by With Out A Doubt. Making the first lead from post five, she soon gave it up to Sensibility, who worked through intervals of :28.2, :58.3 and 1:27 with minimal annoyance from Thanks For Leaving and even less from 17-10 favourite Conway Kellyanne. Sensibility owned a length-and-a-quarter lead into the lane, but With Out A Doubt edged by with purpose. She drew out, winning by a length and three-quarters in a life-best 1:56.2. Sensibility was a safe second, with Conway Kellyanne and Thanks for Leaving completing the gimmicks. For fourth-choice With Out A Doubt, a daughter of Conway Hall co-owned by (breeder) Ross Bonafield, Robert McCarthy & James Moran and trained by Erv Miller, it was also her 19 purse bow (1-for-9, $51,536 as two-year-old). Andy Miller drove the $10.20 winner. The exacta paid $27, the triple returned $107 and the superfecta paid $199.50. Shes quick off the car and very handy, Andy Miller said. The opening quintet saw Hanna Dreamgirl (Brian Sears, $13) waltz around the oval as the only leaver. From post-position three, she never had any grief through fractions of :29.3, 1:00.1 and 1:29.3, disposing of first-up, 2-5 choice Stella Jane, then held pocket-sitting Sweet Chapter at bay. The final margin was three-quarters of a length in the 1:59 mile with Stella Jane settling for the bottom of the ticket. For third-choice Hanna Dreamgirl, a daughter of Chapter Seven owned by Ken Jacobs and trained by George Ducharme, it was her seasonal debut (2-for-15, $115,204 as two-year-old). Brian Sears drove the $13.00 winner. The exacta paid $29.20, with neither triple nor superfecta wagering offered. Defending Sires-Stakes champion Winndevie prevailed narrowly over a sloppy track, snapping he nearly 39-1 rank outsider Pilgrim Lass by a head in 1:59.1. Pilgrim Lass, one of three that didnt gallop early, led the remaining trio through splits of :30.3, 1:01.1 and 1:30.2. Winndevie, pocketed from post five, took out early but found the leader quite stubborn. Winndevie did get past very late, with Amal Hall third. Quincy Blue Chip, the 7-10 choice, did beat the other breakers. For second-choice Winndevie, a Credit Winner miss trained by driver Trond Smedshammer for owner Purple Haze Stables, she began her sophomore season after going 6-for-7 ($227,878) as a frosh. She paid $4.60 to win. The exacta paid $102, the triple returned $286 and the superfecta paid $771. New York Sire Stakes returns downstate Tuesday night, May 14, with the Art Watson Pace for three-year-old fillies. (with files from Yonkers Raceway) The Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey and TrotPAC would like to thank those who supported TrotPACs efforts these past few years while the state industry struggled. Through your generosity, TrotPAC was able to play a crucial role in the New Jersey Legislature passing the five-year, $100-million appropriations for horse racing and breeding. Although the appropriations were awarded, they are not guaranteed. The legislature has established requirements for renewing this funding on an annual basis. We must continue to work together to ensure the funding receives that approval. With that in mind, TrotPAC will be sponsoring a fundraiser for Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, a vital player in the passing of the appropriations. The event will be held on Wednesday, May 15 at Fair Winds Farm and Hogan Equine Clinic in Cream Ridge, NJ at 3:00 p.m. For more information on the event, please contact the SBOANJ office at 732-462-2357. It is very important that we maintain the relationships with political decision makers that TrotPAC has established in the past few years. With your continued support, TrotPAC will be able to do just that. (SBOANJ / TrotPAC) Equity shares of Neogen Chemicals, a leading manufacturer of bromine and lithium-based specialty chemicals, listed on BSE and NSE on Wednesday at a premium of Rs 251 apiece, up 16.74 per cent against the issue price of Rs 215. The IPO comprised an offer for sale (OFS) of 2.9 million equity shares, aggregating Rs 62.4 crore and fresh issue of 3.2 million equity shares aggregating Rs 70 crore. The IPO also included of secondary share sale worth Rs 69 crore by the promoter group. The objectives of the issue were to repay a portion of certain borrowings of the company, early redemption of 9.8 per cent FRCPS, long-term working capital and general corporate purposes. Haridas Thakarshi Kanani and Harin Haridas Kanani are the promoters of the company. As per NSE data, the initial public offer (IPO) of Neogen Chemicals, which was open for subscription between April 24 and April 26 at a market lot size of 65 shares, was subscribed 41.18 times. The IPO in the price band of Rs 212 - Rs 215 per share at a face value of Rs 10, received bids for 17.82cr shares, NSE data showed. The qualified institutional buyers (QIBs) category was subscribed 30.49 times with 1,228,094 shares offered. The non-institutional investors (NII) category was subscribed 113.88 times for 930,283 shares offered. The retail individual investors (RIIs) category was subscribed 16.06 times 2,170,661 shares offered totaling to 4,329,038 shares overall (BSE+NSE). Incorporated in 1991 in Mahape, Navi Mumbai, Neogen Chemicals is a manufacturer of bromine-based and lithium-based specialty chemicals. The company plans on doubling its capacity to 256,000 liters and 2,400 tons of organic and inorganic chemicals to cater to the demand. It is also trying to forward-integrate bromination with other chemistries to make advanced intermediates, otherwise being manufactured by customers in-house. Neogen makes organic chemical compounds - Bromine compounds and other organic compounds containing chlorine, fluorine and iodine-based and combination - used in application industries such as pharmaceutical, agrochemical, flavour and fragrance and electronic chemicals. The company annually manufactures 1,30,400 litres of organic chemicals and 1,200,000 kg of inorganic chemicals. The manufacturing units are located at Navi Mumbai in Maharashtra and Karakhadi, Vadodara in Gujarat. The company markets and sells products in India, Europe, Japan and the USA. At 10:40 am, the stock was trading at Rs 263.55, up 48 points or 22.58 per cent on both the exchanges. A total of 2.67 lakh and 12.9 lakh shares are changing hands on BSE and NSE, respectively. There are only buyers for the stock. (Edited by Rupa Burman Roy) Also Read: Markets Live: Sensex loses 318 points, Nifty at 11,402; Zee Entertainement, Vedanta, Vodafone Idea top losers Also Read: Stake sales process of Zee Entertainment at an advanced stage: Essel Group Officials with Post Time with Mike and Mike have released a preview of the upcoming episode of the show. The Thursday (May 9) episode will feature Dr. Jeffrey Greenstein, Greg Blanchard, Greg Gangle, Brett Miller, and Jim Miller when it gets underway at 10:30 a.m. In a special Pacing For The Cure segment, Mike Bozich had a chance to sit down with well-known immunologist Dr. Jeffrey Greenstein. Greenstein has been integral in finding a cure for not only for Multiple Sclerosis, but for other autoimmune diseases as well. It will be the first of a two-part interview. Part Two will air next Thursday. Blanchard, the director of racing at The Raceway at Western Fair District, will be joined by Greg Gangle, the tracks assistant manager. The Gregs will discuss the upcoming Camluck Classic, which will be contested on Friday, May 31. The Camluck Classic is the track's highlight race of the year, and the Gregs will discuss some of the promotions and happenings that have been planned for the event. Brett Miller, this year's leading driver at the recently concluded Miami Valley Raceway meet, will discuss his return to Ohio and what will be next in his driving career. Jim Miller, the director of publicity at Hawthorne Race Course, will discuss the improvements the suburban Chicago track made to its broadcast signal, as well as some of the promotions for the 2019 season. Post Time can be heard live every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. via posttimewithmikeandmike.com or on the archive at betamerica.com/BARN. (With files from Post Time with Mike and Mike) In order to continue enjoying our site, we ask that you confirm your identity as a human. Thank you very much for your cooperation. Following the announcement by US President Donald Trump concerning the Syrian Golan, a group of expatriates have protested in front of the UN headquarters in New York writes SANA. A number of Syrian expatriates in the US gathered in front of the UN headquarters in New York in condemnation of the US President Donald Trumps proclamation on the occupied Syrian Golan. Participants of the demonstration chanted slogans affirming their adherence to the occupied Syrian Golan and its return to Syria. The participants held banners reading: Golan Has a Syrian identity, Syrian history, Syrian geography and Syrian people. They also condemned the unilateral coercive measures imposed on Syria by the US and Western states, calling for the lifting of unjust sanctions imposed on the Syrian people. At the end of the demonstration, a group of expatriates, who had travelled from Allentown City, Pennsylvania, visited the permanent delegation of the Syrian Arab Republic headed by Syrias Permanent Representative to the UN, Dr. Bashar al-Jaafari, hailing the efforts he exerts to defend Syria at the UN. They reiterated solidarity with the homeland, its army and leadership and affirmed that they would stand by it until security and safety had been restored to every inch of Syrian territory and the final victory over terrorism had been achieved. They also hailed the firm stance of President Bashar al-Assads defense of Syria and his national leadership and how he stands in the face of the global terrorist project, which has targeted the Syrian state, people and institutions. This article was edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. As the regime army advances into Tel Osman, attacks have continued to kill and wound dozens of civilians reports Alsouria Net. The Syrian regime and Russia killed ten civilians in the Idleb and Hama provinces in a bombardment which occurred on Tuesday. The Syrian Civil Defense said: A horrific massacre killed five people, including three children, and wounded 20 people in the village of Ras al-Ain east of Saraqeb during an air raid, adding that, a man and a child were killed, and a woman and child were wounded in an air raid by warplanes using six rockets in a single attack, which struck the town of Maar Tamater south of Kafr Nubl. Meanwhile, the Smart News agency said: Four civilians including two women were killed on Tuesday in an air and artillery strike by Russian and regime forces on the towns and villages of northern Hama province, adding that, the Russian warplanes used seismic rockets on residential districts in Kafr Zeita, north of Hama, which killed a woman and her husband. A similar bombardment hit the town of Ltamaneh and Kafr Naboudeh. It also said, The Russian forces stationed in Halfaya used heavy artillery to strike the towns of al-Zakah north of Hama, which killed a woman. Regime warplanes also struck the village of Deir Sunbul north of Hama, which killed a civilian. The Syrian Emergency Responders team said in a report issued on Monday that it had documented the killing of 364 civilians in northwest Syria by Russia and Assad regime in the period from the start of February to the first week of May. In addition, regime forces resumed their attacks on Tel Osman in the northwestern Hama countryside, which enabled them to retake control for the second time in 24 hours. With Assads forces taking control over the strategic Tel Osman, they will be able to cover a broad area, near Qaalat Madiq, Kafr Naboudeh and Jabel Shahshabou, in addition to cutting off the roads between these areas. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Did they rig the Election of Pope Francis (plus Chile refusal of Communion on tongue)? #TnT discuss recent Catholic events and the description by Cardinal Kasper of a meeting of cardinals before the election of 2013 to elect Cardinal Bergoglio as Pope Francis. Do you find benefit from my videos and podcasts? If so, please help me make more by becoming a Patron via Patreon (and Ill send you some signed books as a Thank You. Click here to become a Patron. Watch the Youtube video by clicking here. Or listen to the audio mp3 here: The Taylor Marshall Show Podcast is now also available on Spotify: Play Taylor Marshall Show inside Spotify. Check out Patreon Patron Benefits! All these video discussions are free. Do you want to recommend a show, get signed books, and show support? 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If you like this podcast, please leave a review. via Dezeen Shah Mehmood Qureshi defended appointment of SBP governor ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday forcefully defended in the Senate the appointment of IMF economist Dr Reza Baqir as the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) governor after the opposition blasted the governments economic policies and called for announcing a new National Finance Commission (NFC) Award before the coming federal budget. Responding to the oppositions allegations that the government had put the countrys national security at risk with the appointments of the IMF men to key positions, Mr Qureshi said Mr Baqir was a son of the soil who had risen to this position through hard work and after getting education in the countrys institutions. He is coming back at a lower salary package. He is coming back to serve his country. You have no authority to issue certificates of patriotism, Mr Qureshi said amid opposition members noisy protest during his wind-up speech on an adjournment motion on delay in announcement of the NFC award. When an opposition Senator pointed out that Mr Baqir had dual nationality, the minister said this condition was applicable only to parliamentarians and there was no bar on a dual national to become SBP governor. There is no threat to CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor). There is no threat to the countrys nuclear programme, Mr Qureshi declared as Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Raza Rabbani kept on shouting question, question. Had you appointed Dr Hafeez Shaikh as finance minister on the dictation of the IMF (International Monetary Fund)? asked Mr Qureshi. He also dismissed the oppositions fears that the country was heading to One Unit or presidential system and assured the opposition that the 18th Amendment would not be rolled back. In response to the oppositions demand for announcement of an NFC Award, Mr Qureshi vowed that the government would make every effort to fulfill its constitutional obligation of finalising a new NFC Award during its five-year tenure. The minister also blamed the Sindh government for delay in the constitution of the NFC, alleging that despite repeated requests, the provincial government had not nominated its ex-officio member for a long time. Training his guns on the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), he said the new NFC Award had become due in 2015, but the PML-N government did not take any step in this regard. He also defended the governments decision to seek a bailout package from the IMF, saying they had no option but to go to the IMF because of the macro-economic instability in the country left by the previous two governments. Earlier, taking part in the debate on the adjournment motion, the opposition members one by one castigated the government over the delay in announcing the NFC award. The most hard-hitting speech was made by Mr Rabbani who also lashed out at Prime Minister Imran Khan over his recent remarks that the 18th Amendment had made the federal government bankrupt. The prime minister is besieged by the people from the IMF lobby who have been opposing the 18th Amendment for a long time, he said. The PPP stalwart alleged that the government had surrendered the countrys financial sovereignty by appointing IMF representatives as adviser and SBP governor. These IMF representatives, he alleged, had been given access to the information regarding the countrys nuclear programme and Pakistans standoff with India. The defence budget and funding for the nuclear programme will now go through the hands of these people who have not taken oath of secrecy, Mr Rabbani said, adding that with these appointments the national security is at risk and there is a fear of internal destabilisation. The PML-Ns Mushahidullah Khan said by appointing IMF men to key posts, the government had carried out a surgical strike on the countrys economy. Michael Shellenberger in Forbes: Over the last decade, journalists have held up Germanys renewables energy transition, the Energiewende, as an environmental model for the world. Many poor countries, once intent on building coal-fired power plants to bring electricity to their people, are discussing whether they might leapfrog the fossil age and build clean grids from the outset, thanks to the Energiewende, wrote a New York Times reporter in 2014. With Germany as inspiration, the United Nations and World Bank poured billions into renewables like wind, solar, and hydro in developing nations like Kenya. But then, last year, Germany was forced to acknowledge that it had to delay its phase-out of coal, and would not meet its 2020 greenhouse gas reduction commitments. It announced plans to bulldoze an ancient church and forest in order to get at the coal underneath it. Getty Images En espanol | Advanced practice registered nurses in Utah will be able to more fully treat patients and provide quicker access to care because of a new law that eliminates some of the red tape that frustrates these health practitioners and others in states across the country. For example, in more than two dozen states, advanced practice nurses need a physician's sign-off to prescribe medications, give discharge instructions to hospital patients and even sign routine health-related consent forms. The new Utah law, which takes effect next week, will eliminate some of this physician oversight except for a nurse practitioner's first year of solo practice. AARP is working in states across the country to convince lawmakers to cut through the red tape that prevents patients and their caregivers from getting the timely care they need. So far this year, a law passed in Montana allows advanced practice nurses to approve such forms as juror excuses and hunting licenses. AARP helped defeat a measure in Kentucky that would have placed more restrictions on nurse practitioners, and lawmakers in nine other states are considering measures to improve the ability of these health care providers to treat patients. "We don't need unnecessary layers of checks and balances when nurses are already well educated and responsible when it comes to prescribing medications, says Beth Luthy, who directs the nurse practitioner program at Brigham Young University and has worked for a rural community health center in Salem, Utah, for the past 14 years. Advanced practice nurses like Luthy have extensive postgraduate education, including at least a master's degree and often a doctorate. Luthy says that restrictions on nurse practitioners have made it more difficult for them to practice on their own, particularly in rural areas where primary care doctors are in short supply. In the clinic where she works, Luthy says, a doctor comes in once a week. Even though I know what the patient needs, I have to wait for the physician to come in, sometimes the following week, she says, to fully meet the patient's needs. That means the patient is just waiting. It's really frustrating because we want what's best for patients and that's timely and affordable easy access to care. "AARP believes that consumers deserve full access to the care nurses provide, Susan Reinhard, an AARP senior vice president, a nurse and chief strategist for the Center to Champion Nursing in America, says in a blog celebrating National Nurses Week, which is May 6-12. As critical as nurses are to our country's health, we know that we will not be able to effectively care for our aging population unless we can tap into the full potential of this powerful workforce." Luthy says nurse practitioners also face national barriers to fully doing their jobs. For example, Medicare rules prohibit nurse practitioners from prescribing home care for a beneficiary. The same holds true for Medicare patients with diabetes who need therapeutic footwear or beneficiaries who need to be certified for hospice care. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners has been urging Congress to eliminate such federal barriers. After leading Roncalli girls to title, Larson honored as coach of the year The South Dakota Sportswriter Awards were announced, and Roncalli Head Coach Derek Larson, was named at the top prep girls coach in the state. Copyright 2019 Albuquerque Journal More than three years after her police officer husband was shot dead in a Walgreens parking lot, Michelle Carlino-Webster unloaded on the man responsible. At the killers sentencing hearing on Tuesday, she said she wishes her husband had shot Davon Lymon in the face, and that he had been the one to suffer. I wish I could have seen your blood spraying from the massive artery in your neck. I wish you were the one gurgling for your last breaths as you choked on your own blood, she said. Oh God, how I wish such terrible things for you. As she addressed a packed courtroom, Carlino-Webster called her husbands killer a monster, a selfish menace with no regard for human life, a sociopath, a killer, a complete and total narcissist. And she asked state District Judge Neil Candelaria to impose the maximum sentence life without the possibility of parole plus 8 years minus one day which he did minutes later. I wish nothing but suffering and pain on your worthless, pathetic soul, Carlino-Webster said. Lymon, 38, was found guilty last month of first-degree murder and lesser charges in the death of Albuquerque Police Department officer Daniel Webster, who pulled Lymon over near Central and Eubank in October 2015. As Webster attempted to handcuff him to the motorcycle, Lymon opened fire. And he continued to shoot as the officer sought cover behind his police cruiser. Webster died days later. Lymons conviction for the willful and deliberate killing of a police officer came with an automatic sentence of life without parole, so the bulk of the arguments made by attorneys on Tuesday dealt with whether the penalties for each crime should be served concurrently or consecutively. Prosecutor Jonathan Gardner of the Attorney Generals Office said requiring consecutive sentences would ensure that everyone knows you cant have the murder of police officers within the city of Albuquerque. Lymons attorney Gary Mitchell, on the other hand, said life without parole was sufficient. He will die in prison, he said. Candelaria said Lymon must serve the time for each crime in his state case consecutively, and his state and federal sentences must also be served consecutively. Based on that ruling, Lymon will not begin serving time for Websters murder until his release from federal custody, currently scheduled for November 2048. The benches in the small 2nd Judicial District courtroom in Albuquerque were filled to capacity for Tuesdays hearing, and additional chairs had to be brought in to accommodate more people. Attorney General Hector Balderas, former APD Chief Gorden Eden, along with numerous uniformed police officers, attended. Officers lined the court hallway as attendees left the courtroom. Wearing an orange jail jumpsuit, Lymon used his opportunity to address the court to reiterate his assertion that he shot Webster in self-defense. Lymon, who is Muslim, wore a white cap. Police lapel camera footage shows that Webster exited his police vehicle and quickly drew his gun and pointed it at Lymon. But Webster had holstered his weapon by the time shots rang out. Im black, so I dont have the right to defend myself, Lymon told the judge, I have to let the police do whatever they want to me. Lymon said he refused to be another statistic, another black man shot by police. These are the consequences if you threaten this black man with death, he said. Prosecutors, he said, relied on an impostor witness who had lied about being with him on the night of the shooting, and he criticized the police investigation as incomplete. While some defendants families address the court during sentencing, no one spoke in Lymons behalf. Before announcing his sentence, Candelaria said Lymons statement to the court was totally absent remorse. First-degree murder cases are automatically appealed to the state Supreme Court, and Mitchell says he plans to raise between 10 and 20 major issues. Those include the disqualification of Lymons initial attorneys in the case, the courts decision not to read jurors a self-defense instruction, and a comment by a prosecutor that prompted an unsuccessful mistrial request. Mitchell said he will also raise the question of whether killing a police officer should merit an automatic sentence of life without parole in a state that routinely leads the nation in shootings by law enforcement. SANTA FE A suit filed against comedian Dave Chappelle by a self-described prankster who made national news by throwing a banana peel at the comedian during a Santa Fe performance has been dismissed. Christian Englander alleged in his 2018 complaint that Chappelles bodyguard, also named as a defendant, struck Englander in the face twice at the Lensic Performing Arts Center, where Chappelle appeared in 2015. The suit also maintained that Chappelle had intimidated him while Englander and Chappelle were talking at Santa Fe Police Department headquarters after the performance although a police report disputes some of Englanders claims. State District Court Judge Francis Mathew dismissed the suit on April 24 pursuant to court rules because there had been no significant activity in the case for 180 days. The case was dismissed without prejudice, meaning that parties to the suit can move that it be reinstated within 30 days of the dismissal. Englander filed the suit on his own without an attorney. No additional filings were entered by either Englander or Chappelle after the complaint was filed on March 30, 2018, court records show. Englander, a self-proclaimed jokester and performance artist, could not be reached for comment Tuesday at a phone number on his court documents. Englander was charged with battery and disturbing the peace after the incident at the Lensic. Englander, who is white, acknowledged throwing the peel from a banana he had eaten earlier, saying he took offense to jokes that Chappelle, who is black, made about his friend in the audience. He said the peel-tossing was misinterpreted as a racial attack. I thought the joker could take a joke, Englander said just after the incident. Prosecutors dismissed the charges against Englander, then 31, later in 2015, saying Chappelle had been unresponsive to inquiries about providing testimony. Englander was required to complete 22 hours of community service. On Tuesday, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington announced that Chappelle is the 2019 recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Dave is the embodiment of Mark Twains observation that against the assault of humor, nothing can stand,' Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter said in a statement. For three decades, Dave has challenged us to see hot-button issues from his entirely original yet relatable perspective. For those familiar with Romeo and Juliet, a mainstay in most high school English classrooms, we often speak of that timeless tragedy about star-crossed teenage lovers. Whats in a name? Juliet famously asks. By any other name, she argues, a rose would smell just as sweet. Whats in a name? It is no secret New Mexico has high-performing schools and low-performing schools, just like every other large public school system or sector with 800-plus options. Whether restaurants, health care, hotels, universities or cars, we rely on the government or third-party organizations to provide more information than we would be able to get on our own, allowing us to make more informed decisions for ourselves and our families. Yet, over the past few weeks our political educational leaders have muddled this by making consequential decisions on how we name the performance of our states schools. First, by repealing New Mexicos A-F grading system for schools, a naming system that over the past seven years had become familiar to our educators, parents and families. Schools advertised and celebrated their As and they entered turnaround programs to improve their Fs. Best practices were shared, and districts like Gadsden celebrated their success in beating the odds for a population of students that is 100% below the poverty line. Next summer, however, there will be new names for school performance: Comprehensive Support School, New Mexico Spotlight School, More Rigorous Intervention School, and Targeted Support School. Tell me, which one of these is the best? Which is the worst? As for our historically low-performing schools, a few weeks ago new leadership at the New Mexico Public Education Department announced the four most chronically underperforming elementary schools will no longer be named More Rigorous Intervention (MRI). These schools altogether serve 1,300 of New Mexicos youngest and most vulnerable learners. Instead, the schools will now be named Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) alongside 86 other schools that are also struggling but hadnt earned five or six or seven consecutive Fs. So whats in a name? On the one hand, nothing much. Regardless of the words we use, they wont undo the years of measurable success or failure that our students have experienced. Whether a school had earned seven straight As or five or six Fs in a row, the performance and impact of the school remains, even if we change what we call it. On the other hand, theres a lot. Lets be honest: An F or a designation of MRI underscores an undeniable sense of urgency. Its a red flag for serious accountability and intervention. Its a way to capture adults attention and make it abundantly clear that things need to change. And if no attention is paid, then our students and families trapped in a school that isnt serving its students deserve the freedom to go elsewhere. The NMPED claims the change in status will reinforce the responsibility of the district for improving outcomes at each identified school. But instead it feels like a diluted approach an experiment in semantics. On average, less than 6 percent of students in the four MRI schools were able to demonstrate proficiency in reading, English language arts and math in 2017. That means, of the 1,300 students enrolled in these schools, only 78 were meeting grade-level standards. Take a moment to let those numbers sink in. It is very hard to catch up in middle and high schools. We are setting a course for these 5- and 6-year-olds, robbing them of their potential. I cant imagine an outcome worse than a promise broken to our children. Imagine the police officers in your hometown take an oath to serve and protect. But then instead of serving and protecting, they do the opposite and begin raiding the bank accounts and retirement funds of you and your neighbors. And imagine if the bosses of those officers the police chief, the mayor and the city councilors know about the illegal pilfering of their constituents and do nothing: they turn a blind eye and keep silent. There would be outrage and investigations everywhere. Newspaper editorials would be screaming for resignations and prosecutions. It has been happening at the Public Employees Retirement Association of New Mexico, and the agencys executive director, general counsel and several members of its governing board are the culprits. PERAs executive director has basically given himself and other PERA employees tens of thousands of dollars in raises without full board-of-trustees approval. In 2014, executive director Wayne Propst, who currently makes $166,290 a year, convinced the then-board chair to give him a $14,000, or 10%, raise. The full board never voted directly on that raise. And Propst got two additional raises without full board approval. Overall, he received approximately $25,000 in raises without full board approval. In 2018, Propst handed out $633,158 in raises, promotions and salary adjustments to PERA employees. I have called the raises illegal and have asked the New Mexico Attorney Generals office to investigate. Why do I say the raises were illegal, especially the ones Propst orchestrated for himself? Because of what state law says about how PERA is supposed to work: The Retirement Board shall employ professional, technical, clerical and other services as required for the operation of the Association. The compensation for employed services shall be fixed by the retirement board. Propst works for the board and has the same fiduciary responsibility to the retirement trust fund as do board members. The $25,000 in raises that Propst gave himself will amount to more than $600,000 in salary and retirement benefits for him over his lifetime. And every penny of that money comes directly out of PERAs trust funds that pay retirement benefits to 40,000 retirees and, eventually, 50,000 current public employees. Propst and the board members who choose to turn a blind eye to his pilfering of retirees pensions have a fiduciary duty to PERAs 40,000 retirees. The definition: The legal duty of a fiduciary is to act in the best interests of the beneficiary. It seems that Propsts law school didnt have an Executive Director 101 class that would teach, When acting as a fiduciary, you dont circumvent or disregard the law for personal gain. Propst will offer explanations for the raises he orchestrated for himself. But he cant run from the fact that he has a fiduciary responsibility to the retirement trust fund and that he never should have taken the money without approval of the full board of directors. PERA retirees and active members, the boards next meeting is today. Our budget is on that agenda, and it includes another 4% raise for Propst and other PERA employees. Retirees, what will you do? Active employees, what will you do? PERA Board of Trustees, what will you do? Treasurer Tim Eichenberg is a member of the PERA board of trustees. The worst thing that Attorney General William P. Barr did last week arguably had nothing to do with possible contempt of Congress or the Mueller report. It had to do with health care. Last Wednesday, amid the circus over alleged special counsel snittiness, the department that Barr oversees formally asked a federal appeals court to strike down the entire Affordable Care Act, jeopardizing access to health care for tens of millions of Americans. If the Trump administration prevails, everything in the law would be wiped out. And I do mean everything: the protections for people with pre-existing conditions, Medicaid expansion, income-based individual-market subsidies, provisions allowing children to remain on their parents insurance until age 26, requirements that insurance cover minimum essential benefits such as prescriptions and preventive care, and so on. The administrations rationale was laid out in a policy brief supporting a lawsuit challenging Obamacare by 20 red states. Their logic: When Congress, as part of President Trumps 2017 tax cuts, set the penalty for not carrying health insurance to zero, that effectively made it no longer really a tax, and therefore made it unconstitutional. Somehow, that rendered the rest of the law unconstitutional, as well including lots of provisions having nothing to do with the mandate. This reasoning has been rejected even by conservative legal scholars otherwise opposed to the law. But legal merits and demerits aside, which are likely to be ultimately adjudicated by the Supreme Court, its also not clear what political upside Republicans could possibly see in mounting yet another overt attack on Obamacare. The GOPs November congressional losses were largely motivated by voter rage over the partys attacks on Obamacare, after all. Trump has, of course, more recently proclaimed the GOP the party of health care, and he and other party leaders continue repeating the obvious fiction that theyre cooking up something terrific to replace the ACA. Yet Trumps party has never been able to come up with, let alone pass, a viable replacement plan, even when it had unified control of government. There are more productive things Trump and lawmakers could do to improve the health care system that dont involve dismantling the ACA. Obamacare, after all, did a lot to expand coverage and not nearly enough to improve affordability. In fact, if Republicans are looking for more fruitful areas for improvement, they might contemplate a survey focused on employer-sponsored insurance plans that was released Thursday by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Los Angeles Times. About half of the U.S. population has employer-based coverage, including 60 percent of nonelderly adults. While most say they are generally satisfied with these health plans, many nonetheless struggle with the financial burden they impose particularly the high-deductible plans that cover four in 10 people with employer-sponsored insurance. Deductibles in employer-sponsored insurance have been rising since long before the ACA. They have nearly quadrupled over the past 12 years and now average $1,350 for a single-person plan. But separate survey data show that only half of nonelderly, one-person households report having at least $2,000 in savings available. Its no wonder, then, that many with good health coverage still report trouble paying for care. In fact, half of adults with job-based coverage say they or someone in their household has skipped or delayed getting medical care or filling prescription drugs in the past 12 months because of the cost. Figuring out how to reduce out-of-pocket costs including deductibles so high that theyre tantamount to not having insurance at all turns out to be much more challenging than simply burning down the entire system. After all, requiring employers to spend more on health insurance might just end up hitting workers in the form of lower wages. Even so, there are promising paths forward. For instance, the latest version of a plan known as the Medicare for America Act introduced last week by Reps. Rosa L. DeLauro, D-Conn., and Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill. would create an expansive public insurance option to compete with the employer-sponsored system. The public option would cap premiums and out-of-pocket costs and have no deductibles. The bill would allow employer-sponsored plans to continue, as long as they covered a minimum average share of enrollees health expenses. Other options might include refundable tax credits to offset out-of-pocket spending, as have been proposed by Democrats before. Trump administration officials may not like these alternatives. Fine. But if theyre going to persist in trying to blow up the current system through administrative sabotage, funding cuts and bogus court challenges the onus remains on them to propose better ways to rebuild it. 2019, Washington Post Writers Group. NEW YORK Understanding Donald Trumps foreign policy is a challenge, since the president has written and spoken little on the subject for most of his life. So how to make sense of his worldview? Is there a Trump Doctrine? Michael Anton, a former Trump national security official, believes there is, and he explains it in a new essay in Foreign Policy. The Trump Doctrine, Anton argues, is simple: Lets all put our own countries first, and be candid about it, and recognize that its nothing to be ashamed of. But, as Daniel Larison responds in the American Conservative, That isnt a doctrine. It is a banality. What country has not put its own interests first? What president has argued to give preference to global interests over American ones? Anton outlines a certain kind of nationalist conservatism that does seem at the heart of Donald Trumps worldview. More important since Trump is rarely consistent and could change his mind tomorrow it reflects the views of the man closest to him on foreign policy, national security adviser John Bolton. Bolton has been variously described as a neoconservative, a paleoconservative and a conservative hawk. In fact, he is simply a conservative, in the oldest, most classical sense, someone who has a dark view of humankind. As a former U.S. official told the New Yorker, Bolton believes that Thomas Hobbes famous description of life without order applies precisely to international life nasty, brutish and short. Bolton believes that to protect itself and project its power, the United States must be aggressive, unilateral and militant. Bolton seems to share the worldview that animated Dick Cheney, who after 9/11 spoke openly about the need to work the dark side and to use any means at our disposal basically to achieve our objectives. There are some in the foreign policy establishment who believe that a revanchist Russia poses a grave threat to America. Others worry about a rising China or an ideological Iran. For Bolton, its all of the above and more. He has at various points warned darkly about the mortal threat posed to the United States by Cuba, Libya, Syria and of course, Iraq. A longtime fan of regime change, he recently labeled Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua a triangle of terror and said the U.S. looks forward to watching each corner of the triangle fall. It seems he wants them to fall not to usher in an era of democracy, but because they resist American power and influence. The Monroe Doctrine is alive and well, Bolton told the New Yorkers Dexter Filkins. Its our hemisphere. This kind of conservatism believes that national interests are worth pursuing not because they are virtuous about democracy and freedom but because they are ours. This view originates in a cultural chauvinism and can easily morph into racism. And sure enough, a senior State Department official, Kiron Skinner, last week explained the challenge with confronting China is it is a great power competitor that is not Caucasian. She noted: The Soviet Union and that competition, in a way it was a fight within the Western family. Where to begin? The Cold War was an existential struggle because the Soviet Union believed it had a superior ideology of economics, politics and society that it would impose on the rest of the world. That is why it was called totalitarian. Chinas rise to power is the standard process by which a new powerhouse economy tries to find a space on the international stage. Chinas system, incidentally, is largely a mixture of two Western ideas, capitalism and communism Adam Smith and Marx which is why The New York Times Nicholas Kristof has aptly described it as Market-Leninism. By Skinners logic we had more in common with Hitlers ideology than with the Chinese because the Nazis were Caucasian, which is both historically uninformed and morally grotesque. The more practical problem with the Cheney-Bolton worldview is that it is profoundly inaccurate. The world is not nasty, brutish and short. Life has improved immeasurably over the last 100 years. Political violence deaths from wars, civil wars and terrorism has plummeted. And this has happened in large part because human beings also have the genes to cooperate, to compete peacefully and to weigh the costs of war against their benefits. Bolton says that he might well invoke the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine which asserts that the U.S. can use force unilaterally anywhere in the Western hemisphere. If he does, what is the argument against Russia doing the same in Ukraine, China in the South China Sea, and Iran in Yemen? Without rules and norms, the U.S. would have to militarily thwart every such effort or else accept a world of war and anarchy. You see, nationalist assertiveness works as long as only you get to practice it. WASHINGTON Hastily written executive orders. Declarations by tweet. President Donald Trumps White House hasnt been known for its careful crafting of policy. But Jared Kushner, the presidents son-in-law and senior adviser, has spent months drawing up a long-awaited immigration overhaul plan that the White House began to roll out Tuesday. Frustrated by congressional inaction and stinging Republican defeats, Kushner has been meeting with GOP groups and speaking with lawmakers to try to fashion a plan that the president and his party might be able to unite behind. Hes been assisted by a team that includes experts in drafting legislation so that he can be less reliant on Capitol Hill, according to people familiar with the efforts. Its a new approach for an administration with few legislative achievements and facing the challenges of navigating a hostile Democratic House, where many legislators are more intent on investigating the president than working with him, especially in an area as contentious as immigration. The fact is this president is taking the lead. Hes not waiting on Congress, White House spokesman Hogan Gidley told Fox News on Tuesday. Officials stressed that the plan could evolve in response to feedback. But so far it includes two prongs: A border security bill that would focus, in part, on modernizing ports of entry, and a package of revisions to legal immigration that aims to create a more merit-based system giving preference to those with job skills rather than relatives of immigrants already in the country. A senior administration official told reporters that the total number of immigrants allowed into the country would not change under the plan only the types of immigrants admitted. The White House is also working with Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., on additional legislation that would address the nations asylum system, in an effort to stem the flow of migrants across the border, according to the official, who outlined the plan on condition of anonymity because public discussion was not authorized. Its not the first time the White House has tried to sell Congress on Trumps immigration priorities and its unclear whether Republicans let alone Democrats will be on board. There is deep doubt in Washington that there is any appetite on Capitol Hill for a wide-ranging agreement. Trump and Kushner met Tuesday afternoon with a dozen Republican senators who seemed largely receptive to the effort. But several said they were awaiting more details. Kushners team began meeting in January with conservative, business and other groups, soliciting input on a subject Congress has struggled for decades to address. Though he had no previous background on the contentious subject, Kushner has tried to replicate the playbook he used to help push bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation across the finish line last year. Unlike that effort, however, this time the White House has made no outreach to Democrats, with Kushner instead looking to draft a plan that Republicans can rally around to make clear what the party is for as Trump heads into what is expected to be a brutal re-election campaign. Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, which advocates for lower rates of immigration and has provided input on the plan, said that, as part of the effort, Kushners team was working to craft legislation in-house instead of leaving it to Congress. Several weeks ago, the team added staff with experience in legislation-writing, including George Fishman, deputy general counsel at the Department of Homeland Security. Its not just talking points or goals at this point, Vaughan said. Its unclear, however, how members of Congress might respond to that approach. A big legislative package coming from the White House could be panned by lawmakers unless they had a role to play in the sausage making. Trumps signature legislative achievement the Republican tax cut bill was the product of careful collaboration between the White House, Treasury and Republican leaders in Congress, who agreed on a broad framework and then left the details to the Senate Ways and Means and Finance committees. One person briefed on the immigration plan, who spoke on condition of anonymity to reveal internal discussions, said White House officials had made clear that they had grown tired of waiting on Congress and did not want a repeat of their last, much-hyped immigration push a four pillars plan rolled out in early 2018 that failed to gain traction. But some Republican members question Kushners broad-ranging approach. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, a member of GOP leadership, said Kushner had been vetting ideas with the president, making progress there, and also with members of the Senate. Ive been encouraging him to do that. But he suggested more narrowly tailored bills might more successful. Having seen our experience, going big and ending up nowhere, he said, I think were better off trying to address this in a targeted sort of way. Vaughan, whose group is concerned that Kushners proposal will be too accommodating to business groups that want more immigrant workers, urged Trump to prioritize the southern border, where a surge in Central American migrant families has been overwhelming federal resources. She also cautioned against a top-down approach, saying that its very unlikely that members of Congress are going to just accept something that comes over from the White House. ___ AP Congressional Correspondent Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report. WASHINGTON The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, escalating the Democrats extraordinary legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Muellers Trump-Russia report. The vote capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and President Donald Trump, who for the first time invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the full report on Muellers probe of Russian interference to help Trump in the 2016 election. Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler of New York declared the action by Trumps Justice Department a clear new sign of the presidents blanket defiance of Congress constitutional rights to conduct oversight. We did not relish doing this, but we have no choice, Nadler said after the vote. The White Houses blockade, he said, is an attack on the ability of the American people to know what the executive branch is doing. He said, This cannot be. But Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said it was disappointing that members of Congress have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics. Barr made extraordinary efforts to provide Congress and the public with information about Muellers work, she said. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said neither the White House nor Barr will comply with Chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands. Late Wednesday the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee issued his own subpoena to the Justice Department for the full Mueller report, as the confrontation intensifies. Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff of California, whose committee had previously requested the documents, said he has no choice but to compel the departments compliance. He warned that if it continues to ignore or rejects our requests, the panel could take legal action. Kupec declined to comment. Though the White House initially hesitated on invoking privilege, Trump told his staff and political advisers in recent weeks to refuse to cooperate with Democrats, believing the partys goal was simply to damage him politically going into his re-election campaign. The coming legal battle could stretch to 2020, and the White House is aiming to tie up congressional probes until Election Day. Executive privilege is the presidents power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. The presidents decision was weeks in the making, the next inevitable escalation between the White House and Congress over a number of probes. The White House has rejected all efforts to probe Trumps business dealings or tax returns as well as the West Wings security clearance procedure. The committee voted along party lines, 24-16, to recommend the full House hold Barr in contempt, but only after some five hours of heated and, at times, emotional testimony. Democrats made their case that Congress was at a historic juncture as it confronts what they consider Trumps stonewalling of lawmakers ability to conduct oversight of the administration. Republicans portrayed the majority as angry and lashing out at Barr after the special counsel did not find that Trump colluded with Russia to swing the 2016 election. Said Democrat Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas: The president now seeks to take a wrecking ball to the Constitution of the United States. And Rep. Cedric Richmond of Louisiana said the road ahead may be messy but Democrats must fight to protect our democracy. Other Democrats called the standoff a serious and grave moment. However, the panels top Republican, Doug Collins of Georgia, said Democrats were manufacturing a crisis and rushing the process to sully Bill Barrs good name. Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, a Trump ally, said the Democrats were trying to delegitimize the president and biding time before they try to impeach him. Get over it, Gaetz said. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has said the next step will be consideration by the full House. Nadler said that will happen soon. If approved by the House, where the Democrats hold a solid majority, the contempt resolution would almost certainly move to an unusual, and potentially protracted, multi-pronged court battle with the Trump administration. The contempt finding could be referred to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a Justice Department official who would be likely to defend rather than oppose Barr. Democratic House leaders could also file a lawsuit, though the case could take months or even years to resolve. Some committee members have suggested they also could fine Barr as he withholds information. Nadler said Wednesday the Trump administrations refusal to provide the special counsels full Russia report to Congress presents a constitutional crisis. In a letter Wednesday to Trump , Barr explained that the special counsels files contain millions of pages of classified and unclassified information. He said it was the committees abrupt resort to a contempt vote that has not allowed sufficient time for you to consider fully whether to make a conclusive assertion of executive privilege. Barr told Trump he should assert privilege now, pending a full decision on the matter. Talks with the Justice Department broke down over the committees subpoena for an unredacted version of the report. Barr released a redacted version of Muellers 400-plus-page report to the public last month, but Democrats subpoenaed the full document , along with underlying evidence. The department has rejected that demand, while allowing a few top lawmakers from the House and Senate to view a version with fewer redactions. That version blacks out grand jury information, which needs a judges approval for release, and it doesnt include the reports underlying evidence. Democrats have said they wont view that version until they get broader access. Almost half the reports pages contain some type of redaction including those around the Russian influence campaign, presidential pardons and other topics. Barr has refused to testify in public to the committee after a disagreement over the Democrats demand that he answer questions from a staff attorney in addition to lawmakers. The committee is in talks for Mueller himself to appear May 15, but there is no agreement yet, and Trump has said Mueller should not testify. Nadler also has threatened to hold former White House Counsel Don McGahn in contempt of Congress if he doesnt testify before the committee later this month. Nadler rejected a White House claim that documents McGahn refused to provide despite a subpoena are controlled by the White House and thus McGahn has no legal right to them. Pelosi, who has tamped down calls from her liberal flank to launch impeachment proceedings against Trump, said in a Washington Post interview Wednesday that the president, by obstructing Congress was becoming self-impeachable. Mueller, in his report, said he could not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, but he did not reach a conclusion on whether Trump obstructed justice. Barr said he and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein decided there were not grounds to charge Trump with obstruction. ___ Jonathan Lemire reported from New York. Associated Press writers Mike Balsamo and Laurie Kellman in Washington contributed. A federal appeals court says U.S. land managers should have done more to consider the cumulative effects on water resources before approving a handful of oil and gas drilling permits in northwestern New Mexico. Tuesdays ruling comes in a long-running dispute over hundreds of permits that have been issued in the San Juan Basin. Environmental groups and some Native Americans have voiced concerns about the effects of increased development on the regions culturally significant sites. The groups claimed in their initial complaint filed in 2015 that the Bureau of Land Management violated environmental and preservation laws in approving the permits. We always knew BLM wasnt doing their job we watch their violations and non-compliance every day, said Kendra Pinto of Counselor Chapter House, a member of Dine Citizens Against Ruining Our Environment, one of the plaintiffs in the suit. To finally be vindicated by a higher court is the necessary step forward we need. Now we must continue to hold BLM accountable. A panel of the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the preservation claims but did rule that land managers needed to do another environmental review for six of the permits. New Mexico Oil and Gas Association Director of Communications Robert McEntyre said his organization is still reviewing the ruling. From our understanding, it only involves a small fraction of permits that were challenged, McEntyre said. It looks like it impacts only about six of the 300 permits that were challenged, The suit targeted BLMs alleged failure to account for the cumulative, region-wide impacts of fracking, including impacts to water supplies, community health, air quality, climate, and cultural integrity of the landscape, according to the Western Environmental Law Center. In 2014, the Bureau estimated nearly 4,000 fracking wells would be developed in the region, where more than 91 percent of the available land is leased for oil and gas drilling. Todays ruling is a win in our efforts to protect our treasured New Mexico heritage from the damage done by oil and gas drilling, U.S. Rep. Deb Haaland, D-N.M, said in an emailed statement. Well continue pushing forward on the Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act, our legislation to permanently protect our sacred landscapes from being drilled out of existence. McEntyre said the suit was not about BLM adhering to the rules. He said the groups involved in the suit oppose oil and gas development anywhere in New Mexico. Haaland and U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan hosted a congressional field hearing last month about the impact of oil and gas drilling on public lands that included a tour of Chaco Culture National Historical Park. They, U.S. Rep. Xochitl Torres Small, and U.S. Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich, all Democrats, are sponsoring the Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act that would ban oil and gas drilling on non-tribal federal land within a 10-mile radius of the park. New Mexico State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard, meanwhile, signed an executive order placing a moratorium on new oil and gas development on state trust land in the proposed buffer zone around Chaco Canyon. TEHRAN, Iran Iran threatened Wednesday to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal, raising regional tensions as a U.S. aircraft carrier and bombers headed to the Middle East to confront Tehran. A televised address by President Hassan Rouhani, who once pledged that the landmark deal would draw Iran closer to the West, saw the cleric instead pressure Europe to shield Tehran from the sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump withdrawing the U.S. from the agreement exactly a year earlier. Rouhanis threats put the world on notice that it cannot continue to rely on Iran complying with terms of the unraveling deal in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, a U.S. campaign of sanctions hammering Irans anemic economy and blocking its sale of oil on the global market is only making life worse, putting further pressure on both its Shiite theocracy and its 80 million people. Later Wednesday, Trump issued an executive order announcing new sanctions targeting Irans steel, aluminum, copper and iron sectors, which provide foreign currency earnings for Tehran. Rouhani earlier compared the situation to a medical emergency for the Islamic Republic, only 40 years after its founding. We felt that the nuclear deal needs a surgery, and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective, Rouhani said. This surgery is for saving the deal, not destroying it. Iran on Wednesday stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step, Rouhani said, something required under the deal. The U.S. last week ended deals allowing Iran to exchange its enriched uranium for unrefined yellowcake uranium with Russia, and to sell its heavy water, which is used as a coolant in nuclear reactors, to Oman. In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran will increase its enrichment of uranium beyond the accord-permitted 3.67%, which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Rouhani did not say how far Iran would be willing to enrich, although the head of its nuclear program again reiterated Iran could reach 20% enrichment within four days. Once a country enriches uranium to around 20%, scientists say the time needed to reach the 90% threshold for weapons-grade uranium is halved. Iran long has maintained its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, Iranian state televisions English-language service Press TV, citing sources close to presidency, said the country would withdraw from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty if Europeans sought to sanction Iran at the U.N. Security Council. Rouhani also said that if the 60 days pass without action, Iran will halt a Chinese-led effort to redesign its Arak heavy water nuclear reactor. Such reactors produce plutonium that can be used in nuclear weapons. Iran notified Britain, Russia, China, the European Union, France and Germany of its decision earlier in the day. All were signatories to the nuclear deal and continue to support it. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif met Wednesday in Moscow with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and offered a letter as well. If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal, Rouhani said. Zarif separately issued his own warning from Moscow. After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that (the) US has made impossible to continue, he tweeted. World powers have a narrowing window to reverse this. Reaction came swiftly from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a staunch critic of Iran and the nuclear deal. I heard that Iran intends to continue its nuclear program. We will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons, Netanyahu said. We will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives, and we will thrust our roots even deeper into the soil of our homeland. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in London, said America will wait and observe what Iran does next. They have made have made a number of statements about actions they have threatened to do in order to get the world to jump, Pompeo said. Rouhani also made an implicit threat as well to Europe, saying Iran now cooperates on issues like targeting Afghan opium and hashish traffickers and controlling immigration. You are obliged for your own security, for protecting your youths against drugs as well as controlling influx of immigrants, the president said. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt called Irans threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium an unwelcome step. French Defense Secretary Florence Parly was much more dire. Nothing would be worse than Iran leaving this deal, he told BMFTV. Irans move comes at a sensitive moment in the wider Middle East. The White House said it dispatched the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and B-52 bombers to the Persian Gulf over what it described as a new threat from Iran. Israel, which has conducted pre-emptive bombings of nuclear facilities in Iraq and Syria, has vowed to never allow Iran to obtain an atomic weapon. Apparently responding to that, the general staff of Irans armed forces issued a statement applauding Rouhanis decision and warning its enemies. Any possible movement by them will face a regrettable response by Iranian nation and its armed forces, the statement said, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. The 2015 deal lifted sanctions on Iran in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. It reached the deal after years of negotiations, including secret talks in Oman between Iran and the administration of former President Barack Obama. The U.S. withdrew from the deal under Trump, whose administration contends the accord should have limited Irans ballistic missile program and what it describes as Tehrans malign regional influence. However, the U.N.s atomic watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, repeatedly has verified that Iran stuck to terms of the deal. The agency did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday. After the U.S. withdrew from the accord, it restored the crippling sanctions, exacerbating a severe economic crisis. The Iranian rial, which traded at 32,000 to $1 at the time of the accord, traded Wednesday at 153,500. That Iran chose to keep its excess uranium and heavy water first, rather than abandon the accord in its entirety, shows it still hopes to secure a deal. In years of negotiations over its nuclear program, Iran similarly has gone step-by-step in ramping its activities while holding talks. It also protects Rouhani, a relative moderate cleric within Irans Shiite theocracy, from criticism by hard-liners who long maintained Iran gave up too much in the nuclear deal. On the streets of Tehran, the mood was mixed as people are struggling to make ends meet as the Iranian currency collapses. It was a good but late decision by Iran, said Soroush Kamali, a 21-year-old geography student. The West should learn that they cannot remain idle while Iranian people are suffering from sanctions. Zahra Ahari, a 43-year-old homemaker, simply wished for things to get better. I do not understand the terms and words of officials. They should do something to make our life easier, Ahari said. I hope the new decision will have such an impact. ___ Gambrell reported from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Associated Press writers Ilan Ben Zion in Jerusalem and Matthew Lee in London contributed. Andarko Petroleum could reverse an earlier decision to sell its assets to oil giant Chevron Energy, opting instead for a deal with Occidental Petroleum (Oxy). That decision could force Anadarko to pay Chevron a $1 billion termination fee, per an April merger agreement. Houston-based Anadarko holds several assets and facilities in the Permian Basin of southeast New Mexico and west Texas. The competition to purchase Anadarko was fueled by the ongoing oil boom in Permian, where the U.S. Geological Survey announced the largest-ever continuous oil and gas resource 46.3 billion barrels of oil and 281 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, along with 20 billion barrels of natural gas liquids. Anadarko in a May 6 news release announced that its board of directors viewed Occidentals offer as superior after Berkshire Hathaway and CEO Warren Buffett offered a $10 billion investment in Occidental provided it completes the purchase of Anadarko. Occidental also announced plans to sell off Anadarkos assets in Africa to French multinational oil and gas company Total S.A., including a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in Mozambique. Those assets were valued at about $8.8 billion. The two moves announced this week led to renewed interest in what was originally an unsolicited bid from Occidental after Chevron already inked a deal to buy Andarko. Chevrons offer valued Anadarko at $50 billion or $65 per share, while Occidentals offer valued Anadarko at $57 billion or $76 per share. We firmly believe that Occidental is uniquely positioned to drive significant value and growth from Anadarkos highly complementary asset portfolio, said Occidental President and Chief Executive Officer Vicki Hollub. This combination will create a global energy leader with the scale and geographic diversification to drive compelling returns to the shareholders of both companies. The financial support of Berkshire Hathaway as well as the agreement we announced with Total allows us to deliver our balance sheet while focusing our integration efforts on the assets that will provide the most value for us. Under its Chevrons agreement, it has until May 10 to counter Occidentals proposal, and Anadarko will make representatives available to negotiate with Chevron, read the release. Until such a revised deal is offered, Andarko expects to terminate the Chevron deal and enter into a merger agreement with Occidental. Anadarko has notified Chevron that Anadarkos board of directors has unanimously determined that the revised Occidental proposal constitutes a superior proposal, read an Anadarko news release. And after complying with its obligations to Chevron under the Chevron Merger Agreement, Anadarko intends to terminate the Chevron Merger Agreement in order to enter into a definitive merger agreement with Occidental in connection with the revised Occidental proposal. African assets to be sold if Andarko sold to Oxy To strengthen its position to acquire Anadarko, Occidental entered a binding agreement to sell Anadarkos assets in Algeria, Ghana, Mozambique and South Africa to Total S.A., a French oil and gas company, should the merger close. That sale was valued at $8.8 billion. The assets to be sold represent about 6 percent of the expected production and 7 percent of the cash flow after capital expenditures of Oxy in 2020 should it acquire Anadarko after a bidding war with Chevron Energy. The proceeds of the sale cover part of the cash to fund Oxys offer. The sale should speed up a divestiture plan contained in Oxys previous offer, read an Occidental news release and provide a value more attractive than the initial offer, Hollub said. We are pleased to have secured this agreement with Total, she said. The $8.8 billion value to be received for Africa represents an attractive value based on our extensive evaluation over the last 18 months. Given our long history of working together productively, I am confident we can execute this sale quickly and efficiently. Total has extensive experience working in Africa and is well positioned to maximize value from these assets. Total Chief Executive Officer Patrick Pouyanne said his companys experience in liquefied natural gas and deep-water drilling is ideal to take on Andarkos African assets. These are world class assets with great upside, and we welcome the opportunity to leverage our expertise in LNG and deep water developments as well as our long history of operating in Africa, he said. We have worked successfully with Occidental for many years and we are committed to execute smoothly this transaction. Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter. 2019 the Carlsbad Current-Argus (Carlsbad, N.M.) Visit the Carlsbad Current-Argus (Carlsbad, N.M.) at www.currentargus.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. WASHINGTON TV pitches for prescription drugs will soon include the price, giving consumers more information upfront as they make medication choices at a time when new drugs can carry anxiety-inducing prices. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said Wednesday the Trump administration has finalized regulations requiring drug companies to disclose list prices of medications costing more than $35 for a months supply. What I say to the companies is if you think the cost of your drug will scare people from buying your drugs, then lower your prices, Azar said. Transparency for American patients is here. In a tweet, President Donald Trump celebrated the announcement, saying: Historic transparency for American patients is here. If drug companies are ashamed of those prices_lower them! Drug companies responded that adding prices to their commercials could unintentionally harm patients. We are concerned that the administrations rule requiring list prices in direct-to-consumer television advertising could be confusing for patients and may discourage them from seeking needed medical care, said the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, the main trade group. But one major firm Johnson & Johnson, based in New Brunswick, New Jersey has already started disclosing the cost of its blood thinner Xarelto in TV advertising. And polls indicate many patients are not taking their medications as prescribed because of cost. Drug pricing details are expected to appear in text toward the end of commercials, when potential side effects are disclosed. TV viewers should notice the change later this year, perhaps as early as the summer. The government is hoping that patients armed with prices will start discussing affordability with their doctors, and gradually that will put pressure on drugmakers to keep costs of brand-name drugs in check. Pricing disclosure was part of a multilevel blueprint President Donald Trump announced last year to try to lower prescription drug costs . Democrats say it still wont force drugmakers to lower what they charge, and they want Medicare to negotiate on behalf of consumers. Leigh Purvis, a pharma expert with AARPs research division, said disclosure will help dispel a cloak of darkness around prices and encourage more informed discussions between patients and their doctors. But she cautioned against expecting too much. The overall idea of reducing drug prices is something for which there is no silver bullet, said Purvis. This is just one step, one tool in what will have to be a very big arsenal. Other ideas from the Trump administration include regulations affecting Medicare and legislative proposals in Congress. With the cost of medicines a top concern for voters, Trump and lawmakers of both major political parties want accomplishments they can point to before the 2020 elections. Drugmakers also complained that the price reveal will infringe on their First Amendment free speech rights by forcing them to disclose prices. Its unclear if that will prompt a court challenge, but Azar points out that the government has for decades required carmakers to post their sticker prices on vehicles. Prices of automobiles are vastly less important to your health and affordability than drugs, he said. According to the latest government figures, the 10 most commonly advertised drugs have prices ranging from $488 to $16,938 per month or for a usual course of therapy. The disclosure requirement will not apply to print or radio ads for the foreseeable future. It encompasses all brand name drugs covered by Medicare and Medicaid, which is nearly all. In a twist, enforcement of the rule will rely on drug companies suing each other over violations under a longstanding federal law that governs unfair trade practices. There are very large legal practices built on pharma companies suing each other, Azar said, calling it a quite effective mechanism. Most people count on lower-cost generic drugs to manage their health problems, but the advent of highly effective and extremely expensive medications for once-fatal or intractable diseases has put consumers on edge. Some genetic and cellular-based treatments can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, straining on the budgets of insurers and government programs. A recent poll from the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation found that 1 in 3 Americans said they havent taken medications as prescribed because of costs. People who take four or more medications, those who spend $100 a month or more on meds, patients in fair to poor health and middle-aged adults are more likely to report affordability problems. Although most patients do not pay the full list prices that will be included in ads, experts say those are still important. Patient copays are often based on list prices. And many people who have high-deductible insurance plans pay list prices because their insurance doesnt start covering until patients spend several thousand dollars of their own money. In other economically advanced countries, governments negotiate drug prices to keep medications more affordable for patients. But the U.S. has held back from government-set prices. Azar, who is leading Trumps efforts on prescription drugs, is a former drug company executive. He held senior posts with Indianapolis-based insulin maker Eli Lilly and Co. after an earlier stint in government service during the George W. Bush administration. The regulations will take effect 60 days after theyre published in the Federal Register. This week, a New Mexico pathology software company will celebrate the opening of its new, larger headquarters, an expansion funded in part by state incentives. The company, Indica Labs, Inc., develops software for a variety of medical applications. It is best known for products that allow pathologists, researchers and other users to analyze images of patient tissues, like those gleaned from a biopsy. Indica Labs had been based in Corrales in a 3,000-square-foot office for about eight years. In 2018, the company requested a $600,000 state Local Economic Development Act grant to go toward the building purchase and construction activities associated with expanding to a 14,000-square-foot facility in Albuquerque. Indica Labs says the expansion will allow them to create 58 new jobs over the next few years. Bernalillo County, the fiscal administrator for the state funds, approved the incentive package in September. The company is now in its new location at 8700 Education Place, building B, near Petroglyph Elementary School. It will hold an official grand opening on Friday, one that is not open to the public. CEO Steven Hashagen says it is gratifying to move into a building that can accommodate the quickly-expanding team. All of us are relieved because we were really overcrowded in our previous space, said Hashagen. . . . We were sharing desks, working from home. Hashagen said the company has expanded significantly since it submitted its LEDA application in April 2018, when it reported a total of 16 employees. There are now 30 employees in New Mexico and others in Japan, China and the United Kingdom that bring the total head count to 43. He said the company is close to reaching the first hiring goal outlined in its agreement with the state and county, and is expecting a $250,000 check any day. Among the positions Indica Labs is still looking to fill: computer scientists and other computer software jobs, and those in the biological sciences. The salary range across positions is between $40,000 annually and $180,000 annually in base salary. The company also has a profit sharing program, which last year was about 30 percent of an employees base salary, according to Hashagen. Other benefits include 100 percent of employee and family health insurance costs, and a 4 percent employer match on a 401K. Hashagen attributed the growth of Indica Labs staff to both the growth of the pathology software industry generally and the companys increased market share. He said the industry has grown substantially in recent years due to advances in artificial intelligence and immuno-oncology. More than 99 percent of Indica Labs revenue comes from out-of-state or international clients. JOHANNESBURG South Africans voted Wednesday in presidential and parliamentary elections, with signs of a relatively low turnout and voters saying they were disillusioned by widespread corruption and unemployment. Despite the demise of apartheid 25 years ago, South Africa remains divided by economic inequality . The African National Congress, the party of Nelson Mandela that has been in power since 1994, is likely to win a majority but it will face a difficult challenge to match the 62% of the vote it got five years ago. The party has been tarnished by corruption scandals and a national unemployment rate of 27%. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who leads the ANC, has campaigned on promises to clean up his party, an acknowledgment of the problems that forced out his predecessor last year. Corruption got into the way, Ramaphosa said after voting, saying graft has prevented his party from serving the people. Selina Molapo, a 38-year-old resident of Tembisa township in eastern Johannesburg, agreed with him, complaining the ANC has not delivered on its promise of jobs. In 2014, we voted for the ANC but our situation has not changed, Molapo said. I am voting for a different party. Firebrand opposition leader Julius Malema voted in his home area of Polokwane in northern Limpopo province and said he expects a good turnout for his party, the populist, leftist Economic Freedom Fighters . If the people want to continue unemployed, if the people want to continue landless, then they can continue voting for the same party, Malema said, referring to the ruling ANC. But if you need change, the EFF is the way to go! Young voters make up about 20% of the electorate and largely support Malema, who broke from the ANC six years ago. However, registration of voters under 30 was relatively low. Mmusi Maimane, leader of the largest opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, was one of the first voters at the Dobsonville polling station in Soweto, Johannesburgs largest black township. Soweto represents to me the home of the struggle against apartheid and it is where we are now struggling against corruption and for a new government, Maimane said. Black support for his party is limited because it is generally perceived to be run by whites. The ANC has vowed to embark on a program of seizing white-owned land without compensation, for which it needs a 67% majority to change South Africas constitution. In the most likely scenario, the ANC will need to form a coalition government with another party to get the votes needed. That is likely to be the EFF, which supports land seizures. If the ANCs share of the vote slips below 60%, Ramaphosa could be vulnerable and his party could oust him and choose a new leader. More than 40 smaller parties also are vying for power in the balloting. Neither the president nor the parliament is elected directly. Voters cast ballots for a national party and the number of votes won by each party determines how many representatives are sent to the legislature. The president is the leader of the party that gets the most votes. At the polling station in the overwhelmingly white, upscale Parkhurst suburb of Johannesburg, a lanky young man hustling as one of the citys car guards the ubiquitous youths who offer to keep an eye on a vehicle while the driver is away paused to say he had given up on the ANC and was voting for the Democratic Alliance instead. They ate a lot of millions, 26-year-old Anthony Molele said of the ANCs many corruption scandals. At a lonely-looking table for the populist EFF, party agents and domestic workers Marie Lekgothoane and Sophie Tsoai watched the arrival of mostly white voters. Lekgothoane described how she and her 13-year-old daughter must wake up at 5 a.m. daily to commute more than an hour by minibus to Parkhurst, where she works and once lived before being asked to move out. We struggle a lot, Lekgothoane said, adding that she has put her faith in the EFF and its promise of change. I like this party with all of my heart, she said. I like the way they talk. When South Africa held its first all-race elections in 1994 after the end of the harsh apartheid system of racial discrimination, voters waited in long, snaking lines. Few such scenes were evident Wednesday, except in the poor Diepsloot township north of Johannesburg. Voter apathy could be trouble for the ANC. Winston Rammoko, 41, did not vote because he said he did not believe it would be significant. We all know that the ANC is going to win the elections so I do not think mine will make any difference, said Rammoko, who sells tires in the eastern suburb of Kempton Park. They have won since 1994 and it will happen again. Tracy van Tonder, 20, is one of the younger South Africans who did not register to vote. By the time I got interested in voting, the deadline to vote had already passed, she said while accompanying her older sister. Van Tonder is one of the nearly 6 million eligible voters under 30 who did not register. Some 26 million people of South Africas population of 57 million are eligible to vote, and the day is a national holiday to encourage turnout. Most of the 22,900 polling stations opened at 7 a.m. and closed at 9 p.m. (0500 to 1900 GMT). Preliminary results will be announced from the electoral commission in the capital, Pretoria. Final results are not expected for 48 hours. ___ Associated Press writer Cara Anna contributed. ___ Follow Africa news at https://twitter.com/AP_Africa May 8 marks 6 months since the start of the Camp Fire Wednesday, May 8, marks exactly six months since the devastation of the Camp Fire. Now, the community is recovering. As of the last count, almost 1,900 properties have been cleared of debris through the state program and another 21 have been given clearance to build. Wanted Chico felon arrested in Florida after authorities said he faked his own death Chico police said Michael Manning was set to be sentenced on a child pornography conviction in 2015 when he skipped town. They said he faked his own death by abandoning his car near the Golden Gate Bridge, even leaving a suicide note. Police found Manning in Florida. He is now behind bars. Chico City Council discussed police and fire funding, price gouging, housing bill The Chico City Council discussed key issues Tuesday night including funding for police and fire departments. a post-Camp Fire price gouging ordinance, an ordinance allowing the city to clear weeds and debris from lots and a post-Camp Fire housing bill. Redding Fire Department investigating 5 house fires in 3 days The Redding Fire Department said that house fires have been keeping them busy. They have worked to put out five house fires in the past three days. However, investigators believe the fires are not connected. House Judiciary Committee to vote on whether to hold attorney general contempt of Congress Wednesday, the House Judiciary Committee is set to vote on whether to hold the U.S. attorney general in contempt of Congress. This is happening after William Barr has refused to comply with a subpoena to release Robert Mueller's complete report to Congress. Secretary of State makes trip to Iraq Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced trip to neighboring Iraq Tuesday following U.S. intelligence officials saying the latest information shows Iran may be planning missile attacks against U.S. troops. Overnight, Iran partially withdrew from a 2015 nuclear pact. Daniel Wellington, the globally renowned watch brand, known for its detail-oriented, sleek designs, has its target set on India. Since its inception, Daniel Wellington has established itself as one of the fastest growing and most beloved brands in the industry, and now they are set to welcome Ayushmann Khurrana as their new brand ambassador. The acclaimed and versatile actor will front the global watch brand's forthcoming campaigns, making him Daniel Wellingtons male face for India. The actor shot to stardom with the blockbuster movie 'Vicky Donor' in 2012 and has in the last two years delivered four back to back superhits. Ayushmann will join forces with Daniel Wellington and front a series of advertising campaigns for watches and accessories the brand outlined. Speaking about the collaboration, Ayushmann, known for his eclectic character choices, said, "As an actor, Im extremely choosy about my films and pick my roles with immense care. Thats why, I wanted to work with Daniel Wellington because their core values appeal to my sensibility and they personify my belief in something new and exciting - affordable luxury. Their timeless style speaks to me almost on a personal level. Commenting on the partnership and the brands venture in the Indian market, Sander van der Stroom, General Manager, Daniel Wellington, India says, We strongly believe in India as a country and want to connect with our consumers and make them a part of our global movement. We are truly proud to work with Ayushmann Khurrana. He epitomizes our brand values and represents the stylish youth of India. Discovery Communications Indias (DCIN) recently launched video destination Discovery Plus on Indias No 1 News and local content discovery app DailyHunt has received a staggering 250 million views in less than 7 weeks reaching out to an impressive 9 million plus unique users. Interestingly, Science and Adventure led content dominated most the consumption contributing 75% of the views. The consumption happened across India with views being streamed from 90% of the pin codes in the country. The traction garnered by regional languages is noteworthy too - Bengali, Tamil and Telugu languages contributed 40% to the pie while English and Hindi contributed the remaining 60%. Within first two months of the launch, it is heartening to note that Discovery Plus is emerging as a credible video destination for passionate enthusiasts looking for real-life stories that inspire, inform and entertain, said, Megha Tata, Managing Director South Asia, Discovery Communications India. The numbers are a testimony to the unexplored potential on digital media for the differentiated content offered by Discovery. The advertising community too has appreciated the safe environment as well as the ability of Discovery Plus to target passionate communities at scale. Umang Bedi, President, Dailyhunt, said, Dailyhunt has always supported original content and believed that our consumers are always looking for insightful, thought-provoking content such as that of Discovery Plus. These numbers are proof and go a long way in proving Dailyhunts reach across geographies and provide an insight into the consumer mindset that is skewed towards quality content. DCIN launched Discovery Plus as an exclusive video destination on March 8th on the home page of Dailyhunt App offering exhilarating short form video content especially customized for the digital audiences in India. The content across Discoverys strong verticals of Outdoor, Food, Wildlife, Science and Military is available in five languages namely English, Hindi, Tamil and Teluguand Bengali. DCIN refreshes videos, ranging from 1-5 minutes, daily to engage with the thrill-seeking superfans community. Pokemon Go players conviction of extremism expunged - attorney 10:06 08/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 8 (RAPSI) The Kuibyshevsky District Court of St. Petersburg has expunged videoblogger Ruslan Sokolovskys conviction of extremism, lawyer Vitaly Cherkasov has told RAPSI. The court has released Sokolovsky, khown as Pokemon Catcher, from punishment for extremism due to the recent changes in legislation mitigating penalties for incitement of hatred and enmity, the lawyer has said. As for other charges of offending the feelings of the believers and using a pen designed to surreptitious obtaining of information, Sokolovsky has served the most part of his sentence for these crimes by the time of the extremism decriminalization law, Cherkasov has added. A prosecutor has asked 6 years for Sokolovsky for these crimes, and the court has granted the motion. Thus, this conviction is also expired, according to the attorney. On May 22, 2017, Sokolovsky was found guilty of inciting hatred, violation of religious rights and illegal possession of special technical means intended for obtaining secret information. On July 7, a court in Yekaterinburg on Friday reduced the young mans suspended sentence from 3.5 to 2 years and 3 months. The blogger insisted on innocence and claimed that said technical means, photo- and video-camera, mounted in the housing of a ballpoint pen, belonged to one Sergey Lazarev who lives in Ukraine. Russian authorities were not able to locate and interrogate Lazarev, his attorney Alexey Bushmakov told RAPSI earlier. According to investigators, from May 2013 to September 2016, the defendant produced nine video files and placed them on the YouTube. These videos, according to a forensic examination, contain signs of incitement of hatred or hostility, humiliation of human dignity and a group of persons on the grounds of nationality, religion, as well as against members of a particular social group. Placement of these videos on the Internet was qualified by experts as public actions, expressing clear disrespect for society and committed to insult the religious feelings of believers. In addition, Sokolovsky allegedly used unlawfully acquired special technical means. Investigators believe that he recorded videos through camera in the housing of a ballpoint pen. According to experts, the device corresponds to the category of special technical means intended for secret reception and registration of visual and acoustic information. The case against Sokolovsky was launched after he had published video on Youtube channel, in which he played the mobile app of the popular Pokemon Go game in Orthodox Church-on-Blood in Yekaterinburg. Pokemon Go, a videogame with elements of augmented reality for mobile devices, became incredibly popular all over the world. Nippon Paint (India) Private Limited (Decorative Division), Asias leading paint manufacturer today conducted an exclusive Meet n Greet session with the Chennai Super Kings players. This is the CSK teams first interaction with fans this IPL season for their associate sponsor, Nippon Paint. The event was held at the Crowne Plaza, Chennai. Some of the CSK players including Suresh Raina, Murali Vijay, Dwayne Bravo, Shane Watson, and Ambati Rayudu graced the occasion and met select fans. The lucky fans who got to meet the players are the winners of NIPPON FANTASY LEAGUE and the key channel partners of Nippon Paint from across India. The CSK team was joined by Mr. Mark Titus Director Marketing, Nippon Paint (India) Private Limited (Decorative Division) in felicitating the winners of NIPPON FANTASY LEAGUE. The CSK players engaged the fans in a fun and interactive session, followed by a numerous group photos and selfies to the absolute delight of the fans. More than 1200+ contestants had battled it out to earn the top 10 slots at NIPPON FANTASY LEAGUE. The contestants played in the league every day to earn the reward of meeting their favorite team CSK in a meet and greet. Fans from across the country participated in the contest which ran for the past few weeks. The top 10 winners were given an opportunity to meet their icons and were handed CSK merchandise by the players themselves. Speaking about the event, Mr. S Mahesh Anand, President Nippon Paint (India) Private Limited (Decorative Division) commented, said CSK is the most celebrated team this IPL season and Nippon Paint as a brand, is proud to be associated with them. CSKs phenomenal reach amongst fans was immensely reflected in fans participation in the NIPPON FANTASY LEAGUE. By facilitating this event, we wish to express our gratitude and support for the CSK players and fans alike. We are certain that fans made great memories interacting with their idols, having received a chance to meet them up close. After college, Liese A. Ricketts moved to Peru, where her father was born. She married and had two children but eventually returned to the United States to complete her MFA in photography at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She went on to teach photography at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools for 26 years. I have remained in the States, although I visit Peru frequently, as I identify strongly with my Latina roots, she says. In October 2016, a retrospective of Rickettss photography from Peru was exhibited in the Palacio de Torre Tagle in Lima. Her visit to the city coincided with the month of El Senor de los Milagros, one of the most important religious celebrations of the year in the country. It features a massive procession the largest of its kind in Latin America honoring a 350-year-old image of a black Jesus which was painted by a freed slave. The image has been venerated since an earthquake destroyed the church in which it was created, except for the wall on which it was painted. I spent three weeks photographing in and around the event, using a Rolleiflex with T-Max 400 and 100 black-and-white film, Ricketts says. No single image expressed what I learned during the period. I realized that what I had to express was better served by making photo collages and constructing mixed-media housing for the images. To provide context for the work, Ricketts composed an unconventional introduction a fictional account of twin sisters, Credo and Quietus, born in 1846 and dedicated at birth to El Senor de los Milagros. These sisters represent the conflict between Hope and Fear, opposing emotions that generate such intense religiosity in the faithful, Ricketts explains. Credo means To Believe and Quietus means Death. The expansive project, suffused with beauty and mystery and named Credo & Quietus, was chosen as a winner of the Latin American Fotografia 7 competition. The elements in the collages come from the work done in Lima, with some additional visual components, says Ricketts. The constructions in which they are housed are not available in documentation yet, as they are in process a long process that is taking time. I have been working as a photographer/artist for almost 40 years, and I am as committed to expressing my ideas through photography, using any and all appropriate tools, as I was when I finished grad school, says Ricketts. "Currently, aside from some very recent works of political resistance, I am creating a series using my photographs to explore some boundaries about womens identity. See more of Liese Rickettss work at her website. Would you like to receive breaking news notifications from The Post and Courier? Sign up to receive news and updates from this site directly to your desktop. Breaking News Columbia Breaking News Greenville Breaking News Myrtle Beach Breaking News Aiken Breaking News N Augusta Breaking News Click on the bell icon to manage your notifications at any time. Success! Please click the 'Allow' button in the 'Show Notifcations' alert in your browser if one is available. Thank you for signing up! Please enable notifications in your browser and reload the page. Russian ombudsman to seek deportation of pilot Yaroshenko from U.S. for health reasons RIA Novosti 11:30 08/05/2019 MOSCOW, May 8 (RAPSI) - Russias High Commissioner for Human Rights Tatiana Moskalkova would ask U.S. authorities to deport convicted pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko on health grounds, the ombudsmans press service told RAPSI Wednesday. Earlier, prison hospital doctors excised Yaroshenkos benign stomach tumors. According to his wife, he is feeling better now. However, Moskalkova believes that American authorities will show humanism and grant Yaroshenkos deportation because of health problems on the principle of mutuality. Moskalkova has previously forwarded petitions to the U.S. Prosecutor Generals Office and state bodies supervising American penal system. In her request, the human rights commissioner also described poor health condition of Yaroshenko and asked to grant him medical aid and relevant conditions of confinement. In April, the ombudsman said that U.S. President Donald Trump refused to pardon the pilot. Konstantin Yaroshenko was arrested in Liberia on May 28, 2010 and flown to the United States soon afterwards. On September 7, 2011, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison for colluding to smuggle cocaine into the United States. He was caught after replying to an advertisement posted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents who claimed they were selling a cargo plane for $1. He is serving his term in the Federal Correctional Institution in Fort Dix, New Jersey. It was reported in February 2014 that Yaroshenko experienced strong migraine headaches and heart pain, which could be symptoms of a possible heart attack. Moscow has repeatedly expressed concern over the pilots health and pledged to continue working to ensure respect of his rights in the United States. In May 2016, a U.S. court dismissed his appeal for retrial. Russias Foreign Ministry said this is evidence that Yaroshenkos conviction was politically influenced. https://www.aish.com/jw/id/Yom-HaAtzmauts-Inspiring-Torch-Lighters.html An inspirational soldier, a doctor with cerebral palsy and a foster mother to 52 kids define Israels spirit to overcome. Every year, Israel honors a group of inspirational citizens with lighting a series of torches commencing annual celebrations for Yom HaAtzmaut. As Israel celebrates 71 years, the choice of the honorees pays tribute to Israels spirit to overcome. Fighting back to rejoin the IDF Col Shai. Siman-Tov was a career combat soldier, an officer in an elite strike unit in the Golani Brigade. He had fought as a division commander deep inside Southern Lebanon in the Second Lebanon War in 2006 and as a Deputy Battalion Commander during Operation Cast Lead in 2012 when IDF forces entered the Gaza Strip to stop incessant rocket attacks by Hamas. Five years ago, during Operation Protective Edge, he was once again called upon, when Israel entered the Gaza Strip amid thousands of rockets and mortars to destroy dozens of attack tunnels dug by Arabs to infiltrate Israeli communities. On July 24, in the Sajaiyya neighborhood, deep inside the Gaza Strip, his life changed forever when he was assigned the mission to locate an attack tunnel reaching the Israeli community of Nahal Oz. We managed to locate the tunnel, Siman-Tov said. I decided to go with my smaller command team to examine the entrance shaft." As they entered, the roof collapsed above them, with a thick concrete beam falling on his head, leaving him with five broken vertebrae. Amid the tense battles around them, he was airlifted to hospital for emergency surgery and a long stay in intensive care. Within days he began his fight to get back to the army. Siman-Tov being awarded rank of colonel by former IDF Chief of Staff The initial feeling of being in intensive care was one of waste," he said. "I thought about my soldiers fighting and me being here, it led to feelings of frustration and helplessness. Although he would be left paralyzed by his injury, he refused to see any other outcome than returning to his troops. I didnt understand the full meaning of the injury, he admits. I was sure in a matter of a few weeks or a few months Id be back in the battalion. Following intensive rehabilitation, less than a year later, wheelchair-bound, he rejoined the army in a non-combat role, given the position of team commander at the IDF's tactical command college. In acknowledgement of his achievement and commitment he was promoted to the rank of colonel. I dont like the definition of a hero, says Siman -Tov. Part of being a fighter is in recovery too. I have never really seen a choice of giving up. He added, Victory for me is to return to the army, to continue serving and to wear my uniform again." Israels first doctor with Cerebral Palsy Earlier this year, Hodaya Oliel, 27, made history, becoming Israels first doctor with cerebral palsy. Born three months premature, weighing less than a kilogram, she was diagnosed with the disorder and spent many years of her childhood in and out of hospital. It was here that she first began to dream of becoming a doctor. The hospital department where Hodaya was often treated as a child was opposite a childrens neurology ward. She spent many months seeing doctors changing childrens lives for the better. The entire time, Hodaya said, between my own operations, I thought to myself, I want to be a doctor. I want to be a pediatric neurologist. Dr. Hodaya Oliel Her parents resisted calls to place her in a special school system for disabled children and opted to leave her within a mainstream school. We didnt look at her as disabled and we didnt want her too, either, her mother said. Despite going through five operations before even starting high school, and not being able to walk unaided, she clung to her dreams and got into medical school. Every day there were challenges in getting around, in moving from classes, upstairs and downstairs, she said. I tried only to think about each day, one at a time and not be fazed. She also chose to live independently in an apartment forcing herself to overcome challenges. In January this year Hodaya graduated from Technions medical school in Haifa, one of Israels best universities. I dreamt about this all my life, she said. Professor Ido Fefferkorn of Haifas Carmel Hospital said patients were impressed by what he described as The small medical student with the big heart. Professor Ofer Levy, the head of the premature ward where Hodaya spent some of her training, praised her skills as a young doctor, Hodaya, you have a strength that nobody else has. Holocaust Survivor who adopted 52 children Mari Nahmias was born in Tunis, a former French colony occupied by the Nazis in World War Two. The Jews of her town were forced to wear a yellow star and subjected to anti-Semitic laws. Thousands sent to forced labor camps. As a teenager, Mari Nahmias was smuggled out of her home and taken pre-state Israel to the northern town of Afula, where she married and began rebuilding her life. Along with her husband Avraham, who would spend many years as the senior X-ray technician at towns Ha'emek Hospital, the couple had eight children of their own with Marie always busy cooking, cleaning, sewing and creating. When most of her own children had grown up, feeling she had more love to give, Mari and Abraham opened their home to foster children. Many came from broken homes, some with special needs and disabilities. Mari also care for children who had terminal illnesses until they passed away. Now aged 92, still full of energy for life, she has fostered 52 children. The Mayor of Afula, Avi Elkabetz, congratulated Mari Nahmias on being chosen to light a torch on Independence Day. He said, "Mari has for years been our local pride. Now she is also a source of the nations pride, with her story being heard all over Israel. She is an example to us all." May Israels spirit to overcome and rebuild be an inspiration to us all. Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei, who was once accused of being part of a deviant current in the Mahmoud Ahmadinejad administration, has been sentenced to six years and six months for acting against national security. He joins Ali Akbar Javanfekr, a former media adviser who was just sentenced to four years in prison, and a handful of other Ahmadinejad-era Cabinet members who received prison sentences. According to Gholamhossein Ismaeli, chief prosecutor for Tehran province, Mashaei received five years for actions against national security, one year for propaganda against the government and six months for insulting judiciary officials. Ismaeli, who is also head of the appellate court for Tehran province, said the judiciary is still reviewing other charges against Mashaei. Mashaei did not hire an attorney or defend himself in court, claiming that he did not recognize its authority. Mashaei claims his verdict was predetermined. Video of the court case, which was released Aug. 25 to a number of media outlets and state TV by the judiciary, at one point shows an angry Mashaei throwing his shirt at an individual in the courtroom. Mashaei served in Ahmadinejads first term as head of the Cultural Heritage, Handcrafts and Tourism Organization, a relatively minor role that masks his profound influence on the former hard-line president and their long history. Mashaei was a former intelligence officer in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the province of Kurdistan in the 1980s when he met Ahmadinejad, who was then a local governor. The two have been close since and became related when their children married each other. The controversy over Mashaei did not erupt until Ahmadinejads second term, when Ahmadinejad appointed Mashaei as vice president. Conservative clerics accused Mashaei of promoting a nationalistic Iranian ideology rather than a religious Shiite ideology. Mashaei at one point caused a stir when he claimed that Iranians and Israelis could be friends. He was also accused of promoting a millenarianism that would supplant the clergy. It is not unclear if Mashaei truly believed in such theories or was seeking broader popularity in a country where religious ideology is the only officially sanctioned ideology that is promoted. Regardless, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei eventually ordered Mashaei to be removed from the vice presidency. Although Ahmadinejad ultimately obeyed, he immediately appointed Mashaei as his chief of staff and kept the controversial figure within his inner circle. Accusations that Mashaei had future plans were not unfounded. Accompanied by Ahmadinejad, he registered to run in the 2013 presidential election but was disqualified from running by the Guardian Council. He continued to pop up in online videos alongside the former president and former Vice President Hamid Baghaei. One of Mashaeis final acts before his arrest was to burn Baghaeis prison sentence verdict in front of the UK Embassy in Iran. Baghaei was sentenced to prison for 15 years over corruption charges. Reformist Ghanoon Daily noted that the administration, which called itself the most pure in the history of Iran, continues to have its former Cabinet members sentenced to prison. Despite the jubilation in some corners of the Reformist movement, prison sentences for the closest members of former presidents and officials in Iran are not new. Nearly all administrations have suffered similar fates for various reasons. Tehrans announcement today that it will walk back some of its commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal prompted swift backlash on Capitol Hill, most of it from Democrats bashing the Donald Trump administration for potentially provoking a nuclear crisis. Democrats piled on the president for withdrawing from the pact, arguing that it paved the way for Irans decision to begin stockpiling uranium and heavy water and resume enriching uranium in 60 days barring financial relief from the Europeans and other parties to the deal. Republicans, meanwhile, were split between declaring victory or dismissing Iran's threatened rollback of its nuclear commitments as a bluff. This is disastrous news and a massive failure by the Trump administration, Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., the top Democrat on the Senates Middle East panel, said in a statement. Irans moves to restart their nuclear program are a direct consequence of the Trump administration withdrawing from the Iran deal and Trumps blind, meandering, escalatory Iranian policy. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., who sits on the Foreign Relations and Armed Services panels, echoed Murphys assessment. When the US unilaterally pulls out of a diplomatic deal, that was going to follow, Kaine told Al-Monitor. It was one of the worst mistakes this administration has made. While Trump withdrew from the deal last year, it has escalated its maximum pressure campaign against Iran in recent weeks. Over the past month, Trump has designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) a terrorist organization and suspended waivers that had allowed several countries to continue to import Iranian oil. Last week, the Trump administration also eliminated other waivers that had allowed Tehran to exchange its enriched uranium for unrefined yellowcake uranium from Russia and export its excess heavy water to countries such as Oman. And today the administration announced new sanctions on Iran's iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors. The top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Jack Reed, D-R.I., faulted that series of moves as the impetus for Irans decision. Its a series of actions by the administration declaring the [IRGC] a terrorist group, eliminating the waivers in terms of oil all of that is producing a counter-reaction from the Iranians, creating a potentially very serious situation in the region, Reed told Al-Monitor. Meanwhile, some Republicans touted todays announcement as proof that Trumps maximum pressure campaign is working. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman James Risch, R-Idaho, declared it a sign of desperation and a clear signal that maximum pressure is achieving our desired effects. The regime is now faced with a sharp choice between its current malign activity and behaving as a responsible member of the international community, Risch said in a statement. He labeled Irans argument that it was in partial compliance with the deal a non-starter, stating, youre in or youre out. Fellow committee hawk Marco Rubio, R-Fla., tweeted that Iran is not going to abandon the nuclear deal, calling todays announcement a bluff. Their economy is in free fall, Rubio told Al-Monitor. The last thing they can afford to do is to cut off the final places theyre trying to do business with. Others saw hope for a new nuclear deal. Were now in danger I suppose, but its an opportunity at the same time, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Bob Menendez, D-N.J., told Al-Monitor. I would hope the Trump administration would engage with our allies and use Irans stated purpose to renegotiate to actually engage in negotiations that could actually achieve the goal we want. But even supporters of the nuclear accord who favor a renegotiation are skeptical. Richard Nephew, a former sanctions coordinator for the Barack Obama administration, pointed to Irans 60-day ultimatum as an issue. This is the escalation ladder that I and many others have warned about, Nephew wrote on Twitter. Because now neither side has any inclination to back down and both will take steps to make that much harder. Indeed, national security adviser John Bolton announced earlier this week that the United States was hastening the deployment of an aircraft carrier group and a bomber task force to the Middle East due to alleged intelligence assessments that Iran is planning attacks on US or allied forces in response to the pressure campaign. And US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo stopped by Iraq on Tuesday to warn against any attacks by Iranian militias against US troops there. At a joint press conference with British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in London today, however, Pompeo sounded dubious about Iran's rollback threats. I think it was intentionally ambiguous. Well have to wait to see what Irans actions actually are, Pompeo said. Theyve made a number of statements about actions they threatened to do in order to get the world to jump. Well see what they actually do. Lawmakers in the Iraqi Kurdistan Parliament formally reactivated the office of the presidency today in a session presided over by the bodys first female speaker, Vala Farid. The position was frozen when Massoud Barzani stepped aside after the 2017 independence referendum. The plebiscite had been fiercely opposed by Baghdad, as well as by Iran, Turkey and the United States, setting the stage for Iraqi military action and the loss of Kurdish control of Kirkuk and other contested territories. Barzanis nephew and son-in-law, Nechirvan Barzani, has since held the fort as prime minister. Why it matters: On a practical level, the move is critical for the long-delayed formation of a government in the wake of parliamentary elections held in September. The parliament agreed today that it not the public will elect the next president. Barzani had been directly elected following a prior change via legislation. The main opposition Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and especially Gorran had vehemently opposed the shift, saying it would give Barzani, the presumptive winner, too much power. It remains unclear whether the president or the prime minister will now hold the reins. Bilal Wahab, a Wagner Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, spoke to Al-Monitor about the vacuum created by the lack of a constitution in Iraqi Kurdistan. [It] means that after each election, the system has to be customized to properly reflect the power landscape, Wahab said. Barzani or Barzani? Its a foregone conclusion that Nechirvan will be elected president because his uncles Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) stitched that up in a deal with the PUK and Gorran whereby each party will fill a deputy president slot in exchange. Masrour Barzani, the current intelligence chief and Massouds son, will get the premiership, all part of a succession plan devised by the patriarch. The burning question is which of the cousins will ultimately prevail Nechirvan or Masrour? Oil and guns: The Parliament also decided that the president will retain the powers enjoyed by Massoud Barzani. This suggests that the president will remain commander in chief of the peshmerga, a key pillar of influence. Energy is the main source of income and patronage in Iraqi Kurdistan. Nechirvan Barzani developed the sector from scratch, inking massive deals with global oil majors and more recently with Russia. The soon-to-be president is said to be fighting to retain influence over the dossier by keeping his long-time ally and energy minister Ashti Hawrami in place. His cousin Masrour, however, is bent on bringing in fresh blood. A notable exception is Safeen Dizayee, the British-educated government spokesman who hails from the influential Dizayee clan and is widely seen as a shoo-in for foreign minister. The PUK and Gorran are angling for plum posts, including finance. Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabany of the PUK will stay on. The new cabinet is unlikely to be announced before the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting. Whats next? As spy chief, Masrour Barzani has mostly operated in the shadows, surrounded by loyalists. Now he will need to master the art of dealmaking and consensus building, and for this he will need his cousin Nechirvans help. Survival of the Barzani family has always trumped personal rivalries, so dont expect any Borgia-style backstabbing. More likely, squabbles with the PUK and Gorran will continue to hinder Iraqi Kurdistans path to clean government and stability and maintaining a common front toward Baghdad. Know more: Read Al-Monitors exclusive interview with Nechirvan Barzani and how Turkey wants his governments help. Amberin Zaman During a televised address at a cabinet meeting, President Hassan Rouhani announced today that Iran will suspend two commitments it had voluntarily pledged under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The decision was made on the anniversary of the US administration's pullout from the deal, which saw multiple economic sanctions reimposed on the Islamic Republic. With the new measures implemented, Iran will no longer adhere to arrangements related to its stock of low-enriched uranium, for which it had observed a 300-kilogram limit and exported overages. The same applies to Irans stockpile of heavy water, which was previously sent to Oman for storage whenever it went above 130 tons. Rouhani's announcement, ratified by Iran's Supreme National Security Council, gives the European signatories to the nuclear deal a 60-day ultimatum to take practical steps toward easing reinstated US sanctions, particularly in the banking and oil sectors. More Iranian measures have already been outlined if Europe continues to fail to provide it the economic dividends promised by the accord, including the resumption of uranium enrichment above the current level of 3.67% and domestic development of the Arak heavy water reactor, whose calandria was destroyed as part of the JCPOA. The details of the new steps have already been formally conveyed to the other deal signatories, namely the European Union, Russia, China, the United Kingdom, France and Germany. After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that US has made impossible to continue," Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted, insisting that what Iran is doing is no breach of the deal. The chief Iranian diplomat posted the tweet while in Moscow as part of a broad diplomatic mission to confer on a series of issues from cooperation with Russia in the region to the future of the JCPOA. He seemed to have won the anticipated support from a key partner. "Russia expects the European signatories to fulfill their obligations under the pact," Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told reporters in Moscow. He echoed Zarif's earlier tweet, noting, "The situation around the nuclear deal was making it hard for Tehran to fulfill its obligations." Zarif and Lavrov appeared to refer to the US administrations revocation of sanctions waivers for nuclear cooperation with Iran that would have forced the Islamic Republic to halt enrichment and heavy water production or find itself in breach of the respective limits. Across the political spectrum in Iran, both Reformists and conservatives hailed the government's decision. "It was a belated step," read an editorial by hard-line Mashregh News Agency, "but one in the right direction as it will curb the US pressure and will activate Europeans' will to resolve banking issues." Still, some hard-liners argued that the decision was too late to be of any impact. Jahan Sanat, an economic paper that routinely publishes pieces against the Rouhani administration, called the JCPOA "one agreement with seven losers" as it printed a picture of a heart rate monitor in a surgical theater where the JCPOA was taking its last breaths. Kayhan, known for its anti-Western editorial line, lamented "one year of loss" for Iran after it continued to stay in an already "dead agreement." The paper once again put Rouhani under fire for emboldening the United States and Europe by "implementing the JCPOA at any price" and putting "unilateral trust" in Europe even after the deal was "shot by Washington at close range." The head of the Iranian parliament's national security and foreign policy commission tweeted that the fresh Iran-US escalation will end in talks rather than in conflict. Later, Heshmatollah Falahatpisheh told reporters that lawmakers were reviewing 15 new plans in response to Washington's role in a wide range of problems including "the creation of [the Islamic State], bioterrorism and impeding Red Cross aid deliveries to Iran." With US pressure reaching new highs, the Islamic Republic seems poised for fresh reciprocal strategies to "counter hostile moves." But in his address announcing the JCPOA-related decision, Rouhani stressed that the move was just another sign that Tehran once again "chose diplomacy over war." US President Donald Trumps recent decision not to extend the sanctions waivers for the purchase of Iranian oil has been met with widespread reaction around the world. One of the main negative responses to the new American move has come from Turkey, Washingtons NATO ally, which has been one of the remaining customers of Iranian oil and natural gas. Criticizing the Trump administrations new restrictive measure against Tehran, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said, We do not accept unilateral sanctions and impositions on how we build our relationship with our neighbors. Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Mehmet Cahit Turhan said following a visit to Tehran on April 29 that the American sanctions cannot alter Turkish-Iranian relations. Although Washington has decided to pursue its policy of maximum pressure on Iran in an all-out way, Ankara and Tehran appear determined to preserve their cooperation. There have been reports suggesting that the two sides are working on mechanisms to avert the negative impacts of the US sanctions and to continue engaging in trade. The frequency of high-level meetings between Iranian and Turkish officials can be considered as another sign of this. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif visited Ankara on April 17 en route to Syria, and his deputy Abbas Araghchi traveled to the Turkish capital April 30 for political consultations with Turkish officials. As such, Iran sees Turkey as an important partner in this period of increasing US pressure. This comes against the backdrop of Ankaras own problems with Washington over issues such as Turkeys determination to by the S-400 missile defense system from Russia and US support for Kurdish groups in Syria. Meanwhile, despite having starkly different viewpoints on the Syrian crisis, Tehran and Ankara are continuing their cooperation on the issue within the framework of the Astana peace process. Thus, an important issue to consider is whether and how the new thaw in relations between the two neighbors could affect their interactions in Syria. It seems that a change of tone from Iranian officials regarding the situation in Syrias northwestern province of Idlib has been one of the main impacts of the abovementioned trend. Ankara has been resisting the desire of its two Astana partners Iran and Russia to resort to an extensive military operation in Idlib to eradicate the terrorist groups there, arguing this would lead to a new wave of Syrian refugees flowing into Turkey, threatening its national security. Although Iran is sticking to its viewpoint that all Syrian territory has to return to the control of the Syrian government, it is avoiding direct pressure on Ankara on this issue. During his latest visit to Ankara, Zarif didnt go further than expressing serious concerns about the situation in the area, while emphasizing that all the Astana partners are definitely obliged to implement the commitments made on Idlib. On the other hand, while Syrian and Russian forces have recently increased sporadic attacks against the rebel and terrorist groups in Idlib, no presence of Iranian or Iran-backed groups has been reported in the area. Mostafa Najafi, a Tehran-based foreign policy analyst who co-authored a book on the Syrian crisis, said the issues of Idlib and US sanctions are interconnected. Turkey will probably support Iran in the face of the sanctions and Tehran will decrease its pressures on Turkey over the Idlib issue, Najafi told Al-Monitor. Therefore, the most probable scenario for Idlib would be a lengthy process of sporadic Russian-Syrian strikes and the continuation of Russian-Turkish diplomatic interactions on the issue, with no Iranian or Iran-backed forces involved on the ground. The situation in the region east of the Euphrates River is another issue to be possibly affected by closer Tehran-Ankara ties. Although Iran is still rejecting Ankara's desire to initiate a military campaign in the area against the armed Kurdish groups, the level of cooperation between the two sides is expected to be enhanced. At the same time as Turkey has been in talks with the United States the main supporter of the Syrian Kurdish groups to push the Kurds away from Turkey's borders and create a safe zone in the area, Iran has been trying to convince the Kurds to reach a compromise with Damascus. However, none of these efforts have yet been successful. Meanwhile, Irans latest proposal, raised during Zarifs visit to Ankara, was to deploy the Syrian army along the border with Turkey, while providing Ankara with security guarantees that no terrorist activity will be conducted against Turkey from inside the Syrian territories. In this vein, Iran will most probably increase its efforts to bring Ankara and Damascus to a compromise. In the best-case scenario, Iran may try to establish a kind of joint Syrian-Turkish control over the borders, without any further Turkish advances inside Syria. However, Turkey may be looking for something more than a simple security guarantee from Iran to abandon its military plans in the east of the Euphrates. Vali Golmohammadi, an assistant professor of international relations at Tarbiat Modares University in Tehran who specializes in Turkish foreign policy, believes that Ankara expects Tehran to convince Syrian President Bashar al-Assad not to give the Kurds any meaningful political weight in the future of Syria. Ankara wants to limit, as much as possible, the role of the Kurds in devising a new constitution for Syria, as well as their place in the future political system of the country, Golmohammadi told Al-Monitor. It could be said that the American sanctions against Iran and the Syrian issue are the two main elements defining the current stage of Iranian-Turkish relations. Ankaras potential to help Iran alleviate the negative impacts of the sanctions is its main leverage on Tehran to gain concessions in Syria. On the other hand, Irans influence on Assad, as well as its potential military role in Idlib, are the Islamic Republics levers on Turkey. All this is expected to result in more mutual understanding between Tehran and Ankara in Syria. There will be no change of government without Israels Arab citizens. The Blue and White partys thesis that they can send signals to the soft right and draw voters from that bloc did not stand up to the test of reality, former Knesset member and Meretz leader Zahava Gal-On told Al-Monitor. Since the April 9 election, Gal-On has seized every available opportunity to speak about the critical need to integrate Arab and Jewish political forces. This, she says, is the only way to bring about a change of government. Comparing Israels demographic profile on the eve of the nations 71st Independence Day and the results of the recent election leads to an inevitable conclusion: The seats lost by a large percentage of Israeli Arabs not voting could have had a dramatic impact on the political map and even resulted in a change of government. Figures released by the Central Bureau of Statistics show that Israel is now home to about 9 million people. Among them, 74.2% are Jews (6.7 million), and 20.9% are Arabs (1.9 million). Then there are the figures for Israeli Arabs who voted in April. According to a survey by the Israel Democracy Institute, 68.5% of the total voting age population cast ballots, but voting in Arab settlements was noticeably lower, at just 49.2%, the lowest voting rate among Israels Arab population since the state's founding. If most Israeli Arabs with voting rights would have taken advantage of that right and cast ballots for Arab parties, it is estimated that those parties would have won 14-15 seats in the Knesset. In the end, the Arab parties won 10 seats, three fewer than in the 2015 election. This disappointing result has led to calls within the Arab parties to learn from what has happened. The problem is that this fails to leave room for the most important conclusion of all, which is relevant to the center-left parties, in particular to the Blue and White: The route to a government turnover runs through the Arab sector, where there is a significant bloc of votes. Anyone who manages to harness the Arab vote could bring about a dramatic shift in Israeli politics. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was well aware of the potential of the Arab vote, so he took steps to reduce it by installing cameras in polling stations in Arab areas. This scared away some potential voters in Arab towns and villages. Anyone who denies that Israeli Arabs are legitimate partners in a change of government is taking part in Netanyahus delegitimization campaign, said Gal-On. [Prime Minister Yitzhak] Rabin was assassinated because they said that he was ready to partition the land and that he was willing to rely on Arab votes. Rabin allowed himself to say it. If he could say it, so should anyone who wants to see his vision carried forward. Whoever wishes to carry forward that vision cannot delegitimize Israeli Arabs. Gal-On further stated, Most Israeli Arabs want full partnership and equality. They oppose separatism. That is why, if there ever is a genuine effort to bring the two groups together, such as a new joint Arab-Jewish list made up of young people, it would be the tie-breaker that tilts the balance between the two blocs. The impetus for change, Gal-On believes, is the younger generation. The political hacks dont represent them, she asserted. They [the young generation] are connected to social networks, and they arent suckers. They didnt go out to vote because no one took them into account. During the election campaign, Blue and White leader Benny Gantz announced that he would not form a coalition that relied on the Arab vote. He did this in response to a Netanyahu allegation that Gantz would do just that. In retrospect, statements like Gantz's turned out to be a mistake, but at the time, Gantz and his fellow party members were put under duress by the very idea. Blue and White leaders believed that they could hurt the right-wing bloc by picking off a significant number of seats from the soft-right flank of the Likud. That didn't happen. Blue and White was regarded as a center-left party and thus failed to attract voters from the right. Knesset member Ahmad Tibi, co-chair of the Hadash-Taal list, told Al-Monitor that the sharp decline in voting rates among Arabs should be a warning sign to that sectors representatives. The reasons for that should be studied in depth, Tibi said. It stems from apathy, a lack of interest in the Knesset, a lack of hope, and the Nationality Law. It demands introspection and an internal investigation by each party. Tibi rejects the idea that the Arab sector could have won 14-15 seats in April. Israelis tend to be right wing, and they decided the election, he said. Even if we had won 13 seats, like in the good days of the Arab Joint List, Netanyahu would have retained power. Nevertheless, Tibi agrees with the idea that the Arab vote could spark change and that Gantzs statements denigrating the Israeli Arab population were detrimental. Mohammed Kaabia, a media consultant, claims that Tibi and the other Arab members of the Knesset are letting themselves off easy. They dont represent the younger generation, he told Al-Monitor, and they haven't for a very long time. What the Arab Knesset members dont realize is that Israeli Arabs, especially the young people like me, want to become part of Israeli society, Kaabia said. We want to integrate. As young Arabs, we want our representatives to deal with our welfare and well-being, with education, and with health. Young Arabs dont want their representatives spending all their time focusing on the Palestinians. There are plenty of educated young people who are waiting for the day an Arab is appointed minister of health. Kaabia asserted that Gantz had lost the chance to win at least three seats, maybe even four, with the support of young Arab voters. He could have attracted a lot of Arab voters, if only he would have approached them and given them a chance to participate, Kaabia remarked. But he didnt even do the necessary minimum. He ignored them, and that was a mistake. Yossi Yonah, a former Knesset member for the Labor Party, told Al-Monitor, There will be no revival of Israels democratic camp as a whole, and not just the left, without the Arab parties. The fact that both the Labor Party and Blue and White said on more than one occasion that they dont consider the Arab parties to be potential partners in any coalition headed by them shows how hypocritical they are. They cant oppose the Nationality Law and then reject the Arab parties. The conclusion from all this is clear. The democratic camp made up of Blue and White, Labor, [left-wing] Meretz and other centrist parties will not be able to form a government without the Arab vote. RAMALLAH, West Bank Israel's Ministry of Tourism plans to provide grants for investors wanting to build hotels in West Bank settlements grants amounting to as much as 20% of the total intended investment. The ministry's decision April 18 followed a meeting with Israeli tourism associations in the West Bank in early 2019, when they acknowledged that Israeli hotels in West Bank settlements can't accommodate a large number of tourists, making it difficult for tourists to travel there for more than one day, TV7 Israel News reported April 30. The grants will be a major boost for settlements. On April 30, Israel Hayom quoted Israeli Tourism Minister Yariv Levin as saying the grants will help solve the shortage of accommodations for tourists and "strengthen settlements and our hold on Judea and Samaria." The newspaper also quoted Shlomo Ne'eman, head of the Gush Eztion Regional Council, as saying, This is a step toward imposing sovereignty over Judea and Samaria. Meanwhile, Palestinians are acutely aware of likely political developments in the coming weeks. On the one hand, the United States is expected to put forward its plan for peace in the Middle East after Ramadan ends early next month. On the other hand, after forming his government coalition, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is to announce the annexation of areas of the West Bank to Israel, fulfilling his election promise. The Tourism Ministrys announcement did not go unnoticed by the Palestinian Authority (PA). In an April 30 press statement, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates warned of Israel's support for settlement tourism as a prelude to colonial annexation. These plans fall within the framework of the gradual erosion of the occupied Palestinian territory, in particular Area C, under various security, military, economic, settlement and tourism pretexts, which requires the international community to move urgently to save what is left of the chance to achieve peace on the basis of a two-state solution, the statement read. The Foreign Affairs Ministry also warned countries, companies and investors against getting involved in such schemes, saying that it would file lawsuits in national and international courts against anyone involved. Walid Assaf, head of the Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission, told Al-Monitor that Israel is dealing with the settlements project in the West Bank on political, economic and religious grounds and seeks to remove the settlement issue from any future political solution. He said Israel is imposing a fait accompli by establishing full infrastructure, huge industrial areas and service centers, in an attempt to impose settlements in the West Bank and make them part of Israel. Assaf pointed out that Israel's grants to investors aim to open tourism and economic prospects for the settlements and to expose them to tourists who may visit them as Jewish land. This tourism project will allow for the possibility of increasing the number of Jewish immigrants, raising employment opportunities and encouraging companies and businessmen to invest there, Assaf added. On May 1, the Planning Bureau of the Israeli Civil Administration approved building permits for two road bypasses, one near Huwwara in the northern West Bank and the other through al-Aroub road in the southern West Bank. The Israeli Peace Now movement reported May 2 that bypasses will aid settlement development by shortening travel time, which will prompt Israelis to live deep in the West Bank. While such projects show how Israel is disregarding international condemnation of settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories of 1967, it is still providing legal support to settlements. For example, in November, Israeli lawyers filed suits in the United States against Airbnb after it announced it was taking dozens of houses in the settlements off its lists. Just last month, Airbnb reversed its decision. The reversal is a cowardly move that will be another devastating blow for the human rights of Palestinians," Mark Dummett, business and human rights researcher at Amnesty International, said in an April 10 news release. Economics professor Asi Atrash at An-Najah National University, who holds a doctorate in population studies and labor economy from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, told Al-Monitor that facilitating settlements aligns with Israel's long-term political strategy of treating these settlements as part of Israel that can't be abandoned. The decision will provide settlers with jobs within the settlements, and will promote and develop the economy of the settlements. Also, Atrash noted, the announcement strengthens those residents and seeks to attract more of them. Atrash stressed that the Israeli government Netanyahu is forming will be made up of the Israeli right wing, which declared that its goal is to annex Area C. Thus, Israel's projects are designed to serve that goal by ensuring these settlements stay outside any future political agreement that may occur. They also, however, may mean the end of any hope for a two-state solution and the possibility of establishing a Palestinian state. Thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv on May 7 for the annual event commemorating the victims on both sides of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Israeli-Palestinian Memorial Day Ceremony is traditionally held the same day that Israel commemorates its fallen soldiers. Right-wing activists demonstrated outside the joint ceremony, which has been held for the last 14 years by the Parents Circle Families Forum (PCFF) and Combatants for Peace. Hundreds of protesters turned out as occurred last year, after Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman tried to block the commemoration by claiming that it violated [Israels] Memorial Day. That the ceremonys organizers included bereaved parents who had lost loved ones was not worthy of consideration in Libermans eyes. This year, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who also serves as defense minister, tried to prevent the ceremony from taking place. Netanyahu is himself a bereaved brother, and it is his right, of course, to memorialize his own loss in any way he sees fit. The bereaved parents who organized the ceremony have chosen to memorialize their children and other relatives by making a statement: It is not enough to merely remember loved ones and to agonize over their deaths. One should also actively work toward ending the conflict causing the loss of life. As happened last year, the PCFF and Combatants for Peace petitioned the High Court of Justice (HCJ), which overruled Netanyahus decision to ban entrance to Israel by several hundred Palestinians to take part in the ceremony. The justices wrote, No defense minister should intervene in the way in which a family wants to express its private grief and sorrow over the premature death of a loved one. They also rebuked Netanyahu by asserting, The defense minister is charged with maintaining the security of Israels residents, and his task is to protect Israels inhabitants from all dangers. We do not see how the ceremony constitutes a danger to the Israeli public. Netanyahu fought back, tweeting, The High Courts decision is mistaken and disappointing. There is no place for a ceremony that equates the blood of our sons to the blood of terrorists. In this way, Netanyahu tried to brand as terrorists all the bereaved Palestinians participating in the memorial ceremony. Shortly afterward, Netanyahus son Yair tweeted a statement in which he called the bereaved Israeli families insane. He wrote, I understand that all the left-wing Israeli families in Israel are taking part in a perverted ceremony today in memory of terrorists? They are really insane, according to any basic human standard from the dawn of history. The tweet was later erased. The attempt to block the joint event and the negative atmosphere created by Netanyahu predictably riled up right-wing activists to demonstrate near the bereaved parents. They used every derogatory name they could think of, among them capos and Nazis, and shouted Go to Gaza, Death to Arabs and Death to left-wingers. A few chanted epithets and We wont light candles for your dead, and some wished upon the Palestinians, May your village burn down. This incitement against us is crazy, PCFF member Aaron Barnea told Al-Monitor. We have paid the ultimate price our childrens lives. How does the prime ministers son dare call us insane? Hes the one whos crazy himself. Barnea believes Prime Minister Netanyahu tweeted what he did because he has an agenda that includes fighting the HCJ. He simply found another reason or excuse to hurl accusations at the High Court, Barnea asserted. Indeed, Yariv Levin, justice minister-designate in the government Netanyahu is assemblying, hurried to claim, If anyone needed more proof that [Israels] justice system needs a fundamental, thorough and immediate overhaul, we just got confirmation today. At the joint ceremony attended by about 9,000 people, Mohammed Unbus, a Combatants for Peace member from the Tulkarm refugee camp on the West Bank, delivered an emotional speech. He said, My dear brother, I hate the violence that caused me to lose you. I still believe that the vortex of violence will only come to an end through joint action in order to create change in this holy land. A shocked Wajia Salame Tamizi, from Ibna, a village in Hebron, exclaimed to Al-Monitor, Netanyahu accused us all of being terrorists? She continued, I lost my brother Hazem in demonstrations held in the village against the occupation in the course of the first intifada [19871993]. Soldiers entered [the village] and shot at everyone. Another three teenagers were killed in the event, and dozens were injured. According to Tamizi, bereaved Palestinian family members believe that there is a chance for peace and that the occupation and violence must come to an end. We dont want to eat hummus together, she said. What we want is to just stop the killing on both sides. We can only stop the violence by getting to know our neighbors and feeling the pain. But evidently there are those who arent interested in ending the occupation or the violence and also not the suffering. Barnea told Al-Monitor that Netanyahu had created an ugly atmosphere following years in which the ceremony had been held respectfully and quietly. He thinks Netanyahu objects to a Palestinian presence in Israel because it could lead Israelis to begin to believe that it is possible to make peace and to end the conflict. This is his agenda, and he clings to it, Barnea asserted. It seems that many bereaved families hold this belief who have bravely decided to express their pain and grief in the way they have chosen. Yuval Rahamim, chairman of the Israeli Peace NGO's Forum, lost his father in the Six-Day War, in 1967. He spoke at this year's event, sharing his feelings about listening year after year to senior politicians addressing the bereaved families at memorial ceremonies in military cemeteries. When I got older, I began to understand what they were talking about there, from the podium, and started to feel uncomfortable with all the speeches, Rahamim said. The Kiryat Shaul Cemetery is viewed as an important cemetery, so prime ministers and defense ministers honored us there with their presence. Slowly but surely, I began to understand that I was playing the part of a bystander in a play that wasnt mine. The belligerent chatter, victimizing ourselves and threatening others, the inflammatory rhetoric, sanctifying a struggle without an end in sight. Every year the politicians made their appearance at the podium, more cynical and shameless by the year, turning our searing pain into an election rally for the next unnecessary war, to the march of folly that continues on and on, the military narrative that reigns in the country. Politicians are fueled by hatred of Arabs, and they fuel our fears of Arabs as well. This year, perhaps more than ever, it seems that most of the Israelis and Palestinians have lost faith in peace and cannot see an end to the conflict. In recent days, May 4-5, four Israelis and dozens of Palestinians in Gaza were killed in another short cycle of violence involving Hamas and Israel. Bereaved parents on both sides of the conflict have chosen a brave, uncommon way of coping with their grief, even though not everyone can understand it. As the HCJ justices determined, This is the heart of freedom of expression, of personal autonomy. This is what gives individuals the option of writing and designing their own life-stories, each person in their own way. Efraim Paperny, 94, a veteran of the Second World War, will participate this week in the victory parade in Jerusalem and in a special event hosted by the Knesset to celebrate the May 9 victory over Nazi Germany. He has done so every year since he immigrated to Israel in 1990. Paperny was born in the city of Chernigov in 1925. He joined the Red Army at the age of 16, served in the Communications Corps for four years, and took part and was wounded in the liberation of Vienna in 1945. In Israel, he became president of the Organization of Soldiers and Partisans Wounded in the War against the Nazis. In 2010, he and his former brothers in arms received Russian help to establish the Museum of Jewish Heroism during World War II in the city of Ashdod. The little museum features hundreds of valuable and meaningful items, including the uniform of a soldier in the Red Army during the war, letters from the front, dining utensils, weapons and photos of young Jewish soldiers who fought in the Red Army, including Paperny. Dozens of Israeli school and student groups visit the museum every year, along with young people from overseas. Some 20,000 veterans of World War II immigrated to Israel from the Soviet Union in the 1990s. Almost every family that arrived has or had someone who fought against the Nazis. Victory Day is an especially popular anniversary among Jews from the Soviet Union. They brought it to Israel with them. The first victory parade in Israel took place in Jerusalem on May 9, 1993, in keeping with a tradition from the Soviet Union and modern Russia (Europe and the United States celebrate the Victory Day on May 8). At first, longtime Israelis watched in awe as elderly men and women decked out in Red Army uniforms and with dozens of medals on their chests marched past. The Israelis had no idea what was going on. The sun beat down on the veterans as they marched in formation, sang songs in Russian from that war and recalled the fierce battles, the horrors they had seen and the friends and family who died. There have been many more victory parades since. They have become an integral part of the calendar in many Israeli cities, including Haifa and Ashdod. Marching with the veterans are their families, including children and grandchildren, who take great pride in their grandparents legacy. Israel should be grateful to all those who fought against Hitler. About 1 million Jews fought in the Allied armies. Some 500,000 Jews fought in the Red Army, Paperny told Al-Monitor. When we were in the army, we didnt feel any anti-Semitism. When you are in the trenches, the bullets dont distinguish between Jews and non-Jews. Still, we were well aware of what was happening back home. And we knew that Jews were being slaughtered by the Nazis. We were fighting for our home, which was on fire. The Victory Monument (often referred to as "The Wings") marking the Red Army's triumph over the Nazis was unveiled in Netanya in 2012. In just a few weeks, a statue will be unveiled in Jerusalem to commemorate the siege of Leningrad. Russian President Vladimir Putin has promised to visit the country and take part in the official dedication of the statue. In 2018, the Knesset passed the Liberation Day and Day of Rescue from Nazi Germany Law, which requires that the anniversary of the Allied forces victory be marked with an official ceremony at the Western Wall. Despite this official recognition, the statues and the parades, very few schools in Israel teach the significance of this holiday. Many native Israelis are not even aware that this day of commemoration exists. It seems as if May 9 has not entered the pantheon of Israeli holidays. Instead, it remains a sectoral holiday only. Paperny said the day is still observed mainly by immigrants from the former Soviet Union. He said he would like to see the state invest more effort so that schools teach about this victory day and about the contributions of Jews who fought in the Red Army. Vlad Kapostin, a member of the Immigration and Absorption Committee in Rishon LeTzion, fought for years to get his city to hold a victory parade. While the city finally began the tradition two years ago, Kapostin is upset that it doesnt include a fireworks show, as it does in Russia. Kapostin told Al-Monitor that although he has no relatives who fought in that war, he grew up in its shadow, like so many Russian immigrants and their children. He also said much more should be done to expose Israelis to this day of commemoration. Without that victory over Germany on May 9, our country would not exist, he says. Every one of us is alive because of those heroes who fought the Nazis. We must give them the respect they deserve and recognize their heroism. Dr. Leah Kahanov immigrated to Israel at the age of 8. She also believes that it is important for Israeli schools to teach the history of World War II and the great danger that the world faced. I dont take part in parades, she told Al-Monitor, but the memory of what happened must be preserved, even after the last of the veterans is gone. This is the history of all of us. It has become a custom of many participants in these parades to carry photos of relatives who died. These processions, which have come to be known as the Immortal Regiment, began in Russia but spread to other places around the world that mark the victory over Nazi Germany on May 9. Many veterans have already died, while others are now in their 90s and no longer able to march. This initiative offers an opportunity to perpetuate the memory of the fighters and, at the very least, share their images in the victory parades. Some of the marchers will also wear a black and orange ribbon. Over the last few years, this ribbon has just about become compulsory in victory parades taking place in Russia. Last year, when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu marched in the victory parade in Moscow alongside President Vladimir Putin, he wore a black and orange ribbon on his lapel. Quite a few Israelis from the former Soviet Union noticed this little detail and interpreted it as a sign that the relationship between Moscow and Jerusalem was getting significantly closer. Israels Arab sector also marks May 9 as a day of commemoration. Many Israeli Arabs who studied in the Soviet Union or the Commonwealth of Independent States married Russian women. They tend to mark the occasion in a restaurant or an events hall in Haifa, singing war songs in Russian and raising a toast to the memory of the fallen. In addition, the Israeli Communist Party holds an annual memorial event in the Red Army Forest in Abu Ghosh. This year, a victory parade and a procession by the Immortal Regiment will also take place in the town of Bethlehem in the West Bank. As in the Israeli-Arab sector, the participants in the parade will consist mostly of Russian women with their Palestinian husbands who once studied in the Soviet Union or Commonwealth of Independent States. Surprisingly, the anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany and the common traditions associated with it unite very different people, Israelis and Palestinians, from both sides of the border. Surprising reports emerged on the evening of May 7 about the movements of two foreign ministers. According to the first, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo suddenly canceled a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and ordered his plane to change course for Baghdad. At almost the exact same time, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif boarded his own plane for an unscheduled visit to Moscow. The scramble underscores the drama now unfolding around Iran and how it is sending shockwaves not only across the Middle East but throughout the entire world. Israeli intelligence sources had raised concerns that Iran would react to growing American pressure by pulling out of the nuclear agreement, or at the very least reducing its commitment to it, including possibly going back to enriching uranium at a limited level. While that activity would not allow for the breakthrough needed to build a nuclear device, it would lay the groundwork for that possibility. On May 8, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that this was exactly what Iran was planning. If no new understandings are reached to implement the nuclear deal, said Rouhani, Iran will resume enriching uranium within two months. The big question now is how President Donald Trump will react. Will he respond to the Iranian challenge, or will he blink and lose interest, just as he did when he ran up against North Korea? This especially dramatic incident is not taking place in a vacuum. While the Iranians were releasing their statement, the White House announced it was sending the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to the Persian Gulf. The United States also announced that it was increasing the number of B-52 bombers deployed to the region. The move came in response to intelligence reports reaching Washington that Iran is planning to attack or instigate terror activities against American targets and interests in the region. It is hard to imagine that the Iranians would take such a step themselves, one senior Israeli military official told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity, but we can certainly imagine them ordering one of their proxies, like Hezbollah, to launch such an attack in low signature. According to Channel 13 News, intelligence about this contingency was provided to Washington by Israels Mossad. Other writeups also appeared this week on intelligence websites and blogs. According to one such report, Hezbollah fighters were recently seen on the island of Kish, a tourist destination near the Straits of Hormuz. According to those analyses, the island could serve as a launching pad for anyone trying take action or initiate an attack in the Straits of Hormuz, the gate through which all oil exports from the Persian Gulf states must flow. The possibility of Iran blocking the straits or obstructing the movement of oil tankers in the region was already a concern, and the presence of Hezbollah on Kish Island has only intensified it. These developments impact other fronts in the region as well. The most recent round of fighting between Israel and Hamas May 4-5 ended without any IDF ground operation. Sources in the Israeli cabinet had insinuated that there were covert reasons the Israeli government decided to stop the IDF and wait for a more convenient opportunity. It is now known that Israel already had intelligence that the Iranians were planning to attack Western targets in the Gulf and change their attitude toward the nuclear deal. This information was transferred to Washington via intelligence and diplomatic channels. Islamic Jihad was ultimately responsible for the round of fighting with Israel last week and has exhibited unprecedented independence in its dealings with Hamas. It is therefore possible that the direct relationship between Islamic Jihad and Iran is what caused Israel to hesitate rather than get involved in another round fighting. It may not want to give the Iranians any incentives to set the region on fire. Israel prefers that management of the incident be left to the United States in its dealings with Iran, rather than pushed to the sidelines on the Gaza front. All eyes are now on the emerging duel between Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khamenei, supported by his Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and Trump, Pompeo and the USS Abraham Lincoln. What happens now? So far, Israels plan has worked perfectly. Trump was convinced to withdraw from the nuclear agreement, pressure on Iran has been increasing to unbearable levels, the Iranian economy is showing signs of rapid disintegration and Iranian oil exports are collapsing. The recent American decision to declare the IRGC a terrorist organization exacerbates the sense of siege surrounding the Iranian regime. Nevertheless, Tehran is showing no signs of reaching its breaking point. On the contrary, Iran is upping the ante, signaling its intent to use terror and declaring that if it cannot export oil from the Gulf, no one will. And now it's announced its intent to resume uranium enrichment. The ball has been sent back to the American court. Everything now depends on Trump, a senior Israeli official told Al-Monitor recently on condition of anonymity. So far, all signs indicate that Trump understands the problem and knows that he cannot allow Iran to become a second North Korea. Israel and the United States are both worried about the first signs of Saudi efforts to achieve military nuclearization. They know that any sign of weakness by the West in the face of Iranian threats will turn the Middle East into a nuclear powder keg. At the same time, Trumps unstable disposition and tendency to quickly lose interest in matters that were once at the core of his policies raise concerns in Israel and overseas. All eyes are turned to the president of the United States, who was once described as the leader of the free world. So far, he provided everything that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wanted to the letter and in force. But it all could be cast into oblivion if the Americans determination does not persist over the next few months. Netanyahu has aspired to this point his entire life. Now that he has reached it, someone else is in charge. Libya's besieged UN-backed government has launched a full-fledged effort to get the Donald Trump administration to abandon strongman Khalifa Hifter and press US Arab allies to do the same. Last week, Washington-based Prime Policy Group registered as a foreign agent for Deputy Prime Minister Ahmed Maiteeq with the goal of introducing him to Congress and the administration so he can brief them on the status of the civil war and his government's interest in peace and unity government, which is US policy. The new registration comes a week after the Government of National Accord signed a $2 million contract with Mercury Public Affairs. The lobbying push follows President Donald Trump's April 19 comments during a call with Hifter that seemed to green-light his offensive on Tripoli, a reversal of previous US insistence that there was no military solution to the Libyan conflict. It does appear that theyre embarking on a fairly substantial effort, said Andrew Miller, a National Security Council director during the Barack Obama administration. Ideally what they would want is a fresh statement from Trump clarifying the policy. Ibrahim Sahad, an ally of the Government of National Accord on Libyas consultative Higher State Council, told Al-Monitor during his visit to Washington this week that a key ask was for the United States to step in to stop the flow of arms and fighters from Arab countries such as the United Arab Emirates in a bid to slow Hifters momentum. The body is run by Khaled Mishri, a former Muslim Brotherhood member. Hifter is leaning on both countries to provide intelligence and firepower, Sahad said, including drone coverage and ammunition, a possible violation of the UN-backed arms embargo in Libya. We can see tanks from the United Arab Emirates in the fighting. We could see the drones which have been bought by the United Arab Emirates, and the Egyptian border is open, said Sahad, who is seeking meetings with Congress and the administration. If the [UN] Security Council could not do it, then I think the countries that see the interest of seeing Libya as a stable country should step [in] to prevent this type of intervention. The UN is reportedly probing allegations that the UAE sent weapons to Hifter in violation of the international arms embargo. Neither the Emirati nor the Egyptian embassies in Washington replied to requests for comment. Prime Policy Group is working for Maiteeq pro-bono without a written contract, according to the new lobbying registration. Agents on the registration include former Rep. John Tanner, D-Tenn.; longtime Republican strategist Charlie Black; and Edward Cox, a former adviser to ex-Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah. Black told Al-Monitor that he'd met Maiteeq through a "mutual friend" and "offered to arrange a few meetings in Washington for him, on a volunteer basis." His firm, he added, does not "purport to speak for the GNA." The push comes as the Tripoli-based government has sought to make inroads with influential lawmakers to get Trumps ear. A Mercury source told Al-Monitor that the firm, which also represents Turkey and Qatar, helped set up an April 30 call between Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., a Trump ally, and Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj. Graham urged the Trump administration to firmly reject any effort by any party for a military takeover in a statement after their conversation. Meanwhile, Sarraj traveled to Paris today for meetings with French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian. The Government of National Accords interior minister also visited Rome on Tuesday. Sahad told Al-Monitor that cutting off Arab arms to Hifter would sap his military strength and facilitate a peaceful transition. But he insisted that the strongman based in eastern Libya should have no role in the government after a weekslong offensive by his self-proclaimed Libyan National Army that the UN estimates has killed at least 432 people. In my opinion, Hifter [is] finished from the scene. He destroyed Benghazi and destroyed Derna [in eastern Libya]. Are we going to stand for the destruction of Tripoli? Sahad said. Hifter is not going to stop fighting until he becomes the sole governor of Libya. But Hifter still has defenders. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed all Hifter allies have all recently spoken to Trump as the Tripoli offensive raged. And Daniel Faraci, a former Hifter family lobbyist who says he remains in communication with the Libyan strongman, told Al-Monitor that the Libyan National Army is seeking formal support for counterterrorism operations from the Trump administration and wants to remove the US arms embargo on Libya. Meanwhile, experts warn that Hifter doesnt need a clean victory in the capital to boost his recognition among world leaders. The way he looks at it, hes not looking at delivering a clean, robust strong performance from a military perspective, said Jalel Harchaoui, a research fellow at the Clingendael Institute in The Hague. All he has to do is keep there, stay there, keep driving. Jonathan Winer, a former US envoy to Libya, said the international community should build consensus and pressure for a cease-fire and respect for the UN arms embargo in order to inspire fresh negotiations after Hifter refused a deal to join forces with the Government of National Accord last month. You cant expect talks to take place while the city is being attacked. Russia has also supported Hifter by printing $13 billion in ersatz currency, Winer said, giving Hifter the ability to pay off his patronage networks. Now the Libyan strongman is prepared for a long fight to take control of the countrys central bank in Tripoli in an effort to consolidate his power, the former diplomat said. Its not going to be over quickly because this is everything. This is winner take all, said Winer. Theyve run out of the ability to borrow money. Theres a cash crisis here, and thats one of the things that drives him. - Aaron Schaffer contributed to this report. Correction: May 9, 2019. This story has been updated with comment from Prime Policy Group reflecting that it represents Libyan Deputy Prime Minister Ahmed Maiteeq, not the Government of National Accord itself. WASHINGTON Oman rejects military operations against Yemen and believes the war there does not serve any party and is devastating for the Yemeni people, said Hunaina Al-Mughairy, Omans ambassador to the United States, in an exclusive interview with Al-Monitor at the Omani Embassy in Washington. In Oman, we still believe that the best way to settle disputes between the Yemenis is through international negotiations, and the sultanate supports the efforts of the United Nations and the special envoy for Yemen, added Al-Mughairy, who assumed her post in 2005. The ambassador previously served in a variety of government roles that span the diplomatic and economic fields, including director of industrial loans and grants at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and director general of investment promotion at the Omani Center for Investment Promotion and Export Development. Al-Mughairy addressed the current heightened tension between Tehran and Washington following the US administrations decision to end sanctions waivers for Iranian oil imports, saying that Muscat would be willing to help mediate the crisis if the sides would find such support helpful. Oman has not been approached, but Im sure that if we were approached we would be happy to assist, she said. Regarding the long-awaited US peace plan for the Middle East, Al-Mughairy stressed, The Palestinian people have suffered a lot all these years, and something has to be done. For this reason, she noted, Sultan Qaboos, the leader of Oman, took the initiative to invite Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to Oman and shortly thereafter hosted Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu. [O]ne of the main pillars of our foreign policy is to talk to people and negotiate. Without talking to people and negotiating you cannot solve any problem. The veteran diplomat also decried the diplomatic crisis between Qatar and other states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (excluding Oman and Kuwait) that erupted in 2017 as very unfortunate and argued that it undermined the progress the regional bloc had made. We had achieved a lot in the GCC: We use our identity cards to travel throughout; we have a customs union, etc. But I cant see that working now that there is a blockade with one of the countries. A full transcript of the interview, conducted by Al-Monitor managing editor Tyler Huffman, follows: Al-Monitor: The US and Oman enjoy strong bilateral ties and continue to boost coordination, including a recent military agreement that allows US forces to use strategic Omani ports. What are the most important current areas of coordination between Muscat and Washington, and what are the key challenges in relations? Al-Mughairy: I dont think we have any challenges right now. Oman and the US have been friends since 1833, when we signed the first Treaty of Amity and Commerce. And we have continued the relationship regardless of which administration is in the White House, whether its a Republican or a Democrat. Weve always played a key role in assisting the United States when it comes to things happening in the region. So I dont think there are any difficult challenges that we cannot solve or we cannot overcome. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was just in Oman a few months ago, Jared Kushner was also there [in February]. So we have excellent relations with the United States, and thats one of the reasons also that we signed this agreement for the Duqum port. This is a very important port for us as Omanis, and for the world as well, because it is the only dry dock and port that is outside the Gulf. Al-Monitor: Oman and Kuwait have remained neutral and have been active in mediation to resolve the diplomatic crisis between Qatar and other GCC states that erupted in 2017. In March, Omani Foreign Minister Yousuf Bin Alawi said the crisis may not be eligible for solution. Could you describe Omans approach to the blockade and its mediation, and prospects for resolution? Al-Mughairy: This blockade is very unfortunate. We are supporting the Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Sabah, because he is the lead person on efforts to solve this problem. So Oman is working with Kuwait. We hope well be able to solve this problem because, as I mentioned earlier on, we all belong in the same region, were the same people, we speak the same language, we eat the same food, we intermarry. You have families where half of them are in one state and half in the other. We were doing very well with the GCC and we hope that well be able to solve this problem soon. Its more because of the difference in foreign policies of the different countries, and thats the reason why this problem has arisen. Al-Monitor: And how has it impacted the overall work of the GCC? Al-Mughairy: Unfortunately, now three members of the GCC are not talking to Qatar. So it definitely affects the work of the GCC. We had achieved a lot in the GCC: We use our identity cards to travel throughout the Gulf; we have a customs union, etc. But I cant see that working now that there is a blockade with one of the countries. Al-Monitor: The Trump administration is preparing to release its Israeli-Palestinian peace plan after Ramadan. Although Oman hasnt taken a direct role in attempts to secure Israeli-Palestinian peace, it has voiced support for ideas to bring the two sides together and separately hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu late last year. What are your expectations, hopes and concerns regarding the US plan, and what role do you see Oman playing? Al-Mughairy: Well you see, they have been very protective about this plan. Nobody really knows what is in it. Theyve told us that this plan is going to be more economical than political. Omans thoughts, and His Majestys thoughts, are that the Palestinian people have suffered a lot all these years, and something has to be done, because otherwise the next generation is going to face the same thing that this generation has been facing. And that is the reason why His Majesty has taken this step to invite Mahmoud Abbas first. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wanted to come and see His Majesty and His Majesty welcomed that. Maybe not many people know it, but this is not the first Israeli prime minister who has visited Oman. Prime Minister [Yitzhak] Rabin visited Oman [in 1994]. Oman had a trade office in Tel Aviv until after the second intifada. So Oman has always been at the forefront in trying to bring peace in the Middle East. And we feel that one of the main pillars of our foreign policy is to talk to people and negotiate. Without talking to people and negotiating you cannot solve any problem. Al-Monitor: As the US has stepped up pressure on Iran and announced its decision to end sanctions waivers for Iranian oil imports, do you again see a role for Oman in de-escalating tensions, recalling Omans mediation in the 2013 talks that eventually led to the nuclear deal? Al-Mughairy: We were not part of the mediation [for the nuclear deal]; rather, we provided the venue. And the reason we were the ones who were asked to do that is because we are one of the few countries in the Gulf who is friends with both the United States and the Iranians. And as I said early on, this is based on the pillars of our foreign policy. First of all, we do not interfere in the foreign policies of our neighboring countries. We dont interfere in any countrys internal policies. Thats number one. Number two, we believe in negotiations. Its important that we negotiate. Otherwise, if we do not negotiate, we will not be able to solve the problem. Iran is a neighbor and we have good relations with all of our neighbors. And because of these good relations with our neighbors we were able to assist in bringing in the American hikers [detained by Iran in 2009], and negotiating [to release] the hikers and help with other hostages. And until now I have people coming to my office asking me if we can assist if they have families that are stuck. Al-Monitor: And does Oman have a role specifically in helping address the current Iran-US tensions? Al-Mughairy: Oman has not been approached, but Im sure that if we were approached we would be happy to assist. Al-Monitor: How do you view your role as a leader and woman in the Oman and Arab diplomatic corps? How do you see the progress of women in senior national security and foreign policy positions in the Gulf and the Arab world? Al-Mughairy: Not many people know about Oman, and maybe this is one of the secrets that is kept from foreigners until they arrive in Oman and then they are pleasantly surprised. Since His Majesty took over, women have had every right that men have. There are a couple of speeches that he has made on Omans national day that address women and children. He said, Women and children are not far from our sight, and he also said, and I quote, We are continuing on this path, God willing, as we are, that the country, in its blessed march, needs both men and women because no doubt it resembles the bird in relying on both its wings to fly high on the horizons of the sky. How can this bird manage if one of its wings is broken? Will it be able to fly? I remember once someone had mentioned that they had come to Oman and were surprised to see that there were women in the negotiating team. And they were told, Why are you surprised? Half the population are women." I retired from the government to join my husband when he was appointed permanent representative of Oman to the United Nations. While in New York, the government asked me to set up the Center for Investment Promotion and Export Development in New York. So I was dealing a lot with the private sector and I was surprised that women in the corporate world in the United States do not get the same salary and benefits as men. Meanwhile, in Oman, as long as youre doing the same job, you earn the same benefits. My husband was ambassador to the UN and I was the ambassador here and there was no difference between me and him regarding salary and benefits. Of course, we have a lot of conservative people in Oman; Im not saying that we have every right. But as far as the government is concerned, professionally, we have the same right as men. Im not the most senior woman in the government. There are cabinet ministers who are women. Two of the most important ministries the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Higher Education are both led by women. Al-Monitor: What is Muscats view on the current situation in Yemen, and what are the prospects for a solution? Al-Mughairy: The position of Oman on the war in Yemen is stable and decisive, and we refuse to participate in any military operation against Yemen, or against any other country, unless it is in the framework of self-defense and in the regulatory framework of the GCC. The war in Yemen does not serve any party, and it is certainly devastating for the Yemeni people. The Yemeni people are the victims of this war, which has not ended and has resulted in many tragic humanitarian crises. In Oman, we still believe that the best way to settle disputes in Yemen is through international negotiations, and the Sultanate supports the efforts of the United Nations and the special envoy for Yemen. We hope that a settlement for this crisis can be reached soon. RAMALLAH, West Bank The reconciliation standoff between rival Palestinian factions Fatah and Hamas is creating divisions over how to defy the Mideast peace proposal expected soon from US President Donald Trump's administration. Each faction claims to oppose the plan while accusing the other of supporting it, even though it hasn't been officially unveiled yet. The plan is expected to strongly favor Israel. White House senior adviser and Trump son-in-law Jared Kushner said April 23 during a Time magazine forum in New York that the administration will announce the so-called "deal of the century" sometime after the Muslim holy month of Ramadan ends in early June. Meanwhile, the Palestinian rift is widening with the ongoing deadlock. Salah al-Bardawil, the Hamas leader in the Gaza Strip, told Arabi 21 news recently that Hamas is forming a "supreme body" to negotiate with other Palestinian factions, which he didn't name, about how to counter the US proposal. Fatah then attacked Hamas in the media, saying it fears the new body might become the core of a rival body parallel to the Palestinian Liberation Organization. Jamal Muheisen, a member of the Fatah Central Committee, told the official Voice of Palestine radio April 24 that the Hamas announcement is a step showing Hamas agreement to the deal rather than its refusal of it." According to Muheisen, the only way for Palestinians to handle the US proposal is to unite behind the Palestinian Authority, headed by President Mahmoud Abbas and his Fatah party: "Whoever wants to face the deal of the century must back the legitimate leadership that objects to the deal and dismisses it. Majed al-Fetiani, secretary of the Fatah Revolutionary Council, told Al-Monitor, The Palestinian leadership, which Abbas heads, is the one fighting the deal. ... If Hamas is serious in defying the deal ... it should announce the end of its rule in Gaza and tell Abbas it stands with him. Hamas leaders made similar statements attacking Abbas during the Palestinian Legislative Council session in Gaza on April 24. Hamas deputy leader Khalil al-Hayya said Abbas "and his team insist on distracting the nation by focusing on problems that shift attention away from attempts to eliminate the Palestinian cause, instead of heading toward national unity based on partnership and respect for signed agreements. The escalation between the two parties comes amid stagnation in the Palestinian reconciliation. Egypt is sponsoring the process, as well as one between Hamas and Israel. A delegation including Fatah Central Committee members Azzam al-Ahmad and Rouhi Fotouh visited Cairo on April 17. In April 20 statements to Voice of Palestine, Ahmad said his delegation communicated to Egyptian intelligence the PA's concerns about some provisions of the on-again, off-again truce between Hamas and Israel. Fatah especially pointed to provisions related to irregular money flow to Gaza, in reference to Israel allowing entry of Qatari funds to Hamas to pay the salaries of public employees. Speaking about Fatah's trip to Cairo last month, Abdullah Abdullah, a member of the Revolutionary Council, told Al-Monitor, The Fatah delegation gave Egyptians a message stating that if Hamas is honest about defying the deal of the century, then it should join the PLO in these same endeavors to form a solid front. Fatah, he said, wants to implement an agreement from October 2017 under which the PA was to take control of the Gaza Strip and remove at least some of the crushing restrictions on Gazans. The ill-fated agreement never got off the ground. Abdullah also said the new Palestinian government which excludes Hamas should organize legislative elections to form a multifactional national unity government. The Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar on April 18 cited a source close to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh as saying Abbas wants a draft agreement with Hamas regarding the requirements of the next stage and confirmation about the unity of power in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, in addition to a political program in line with that of the PLO. The source added, "[Abbas] wants reassurance from Hamas that it will not accept any arrangements that the PA does not approve of in Gaza. Meanwhile, the PA insists on a role for Shtayyehs government in Gaza. However, Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum said at an April 20 press conference in Gaza, Fatahs claims about the reconciliation and about presenting propositions are just propaganda and stalling attempts. The aim is to cover up the divisive moves of Fatah and [Abbas] and his retaliatory measures against Gazas people. Shtayyeh was sworn in April 14 in Ramallah with the participation of six factions: Fatah, the Palestinian Democratic Union, the Palestinian Popular Struggle Front, the Palestinian Peoples Party, the Palestinian Liberation Front and the Arab Liberation Front. But the Fatah-dominated government there doesn't include the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine, the Palestinian National Initiative, Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Ahmad Jamil Azem, a professor of international studies and political science at Birzeit University, told Al-Monitor that Trump actually began implementing his plan for the Middle East a year ago by declaring Jerusalem as Israels capital and halting US funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. What will be announced later are additional steps to the plan, he said. According to Azem, Palestinians could defy the deal if they united and led a popular resistance, but there are no reconciliation prospects. Fatah has no clear vision about the way to deal with Gaza now or in the future. Meanwhile, some Hamas parties don't want reconciliation at whatever cost. For reconciliation to happen, an important regional or international mediator is needed to pressure both sides as Egypts role isn't enough to pressure Hamas and Israel," he said. "The US and Israel want to manage the crisis in Gaza rather than solve it, by reaching understandings between Hamas and Israel to ease the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and offer some aid, rather than end the blockade [by Israel] completely. UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen took part in the latest round of Syria peace talks, which Russia sees as a sign that he is willing to engage with the three guarantors of the talks: Russia, Iran and Turkey. In turn, Russia made assurances that it supports UN-sponsored peace and humanitarian efforts in Syria. The gathering was held April 26 in Kazakhstans capital Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana). It was preceded by a March 24 working meeting in Moscow between United Nations Development Program officials and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin. Vershinin had met Pedersen earlier at a March 12-14 donor conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region, held in Brussels and organized by the European Union and the UN. Shortly after Pedersen assumed his duties in January, Syrian authorities credited him, among other things, for his efforts to launch a Syrian Constitutional Committee. This was in stark contrast to his predecessor, Staffan de Mistura, whom Damascus viewed as an unbalanced pro-opposition figure. Yet, UN bureaucracy still seems devoted to the past approach, characterized by a reluctance to support Syrias large-scale economic reconstruction estimated to be worth $250 billion to $400 billion before a final political solution to the crisis is reached. This continues to limit the UN's early recovery measures. On a parallel track, Pedersens assistants accelerated field efforts to gather and process information about legal and institutional frameworks for doing business and investing in Syria, as well as to track Syrian government policies aimed at attracting investors for an ambitious national strategy of Rebuilding Syria. These circumstances may be pushing UN leadership toward enhancing coordination with Moscow. Also, the UN and Russia need each other to ultimately establish the Constitutional Committee. Over the course of its campaign in Syria, Russia has come to possess resources that may be critical to UN operations. Russian military police units are deployed across the country; the Russian Defense Ministry is now fully involved in the process of returning Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons to their homes. On May 5, the Russian Center for Reconciliation of Opposing Sides released its latest bulletin, saying that since July 18, 2018, 212,896 Syrians had returned from foreign territories. As of April 1, according to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (as cited in the bulletin), almost 6.66 million officially registered Syrian refugees remain in 45 countries, including nearly 2 million women and 3.4 million children. The staff of the UN and its partner nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) also occasionally need Russias security protection for their humanitarian convoys, and for approaching Idlib province through the buffer zone jointly patrolled by Russia and Turkey. The province is largely controlled by armed militants of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Last but not least, the UN and Syria look for Russia to boost its donations for humanitarian efforts in Syria and neighboring countries to compensate for funding cutbacks by Western powers and NGOs, as a result of accusations against UN agencies. Various UN agencies that operate in Syria, mainly under the umbrella of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), have controversial track records. Despite effective operations within OCHA's Whole-of-Syria format which the UN says is an "approach to develop a principled, predictable and coherent response to prioritized humanitarian needs through in-country and cross border operations" some agencies have been repeatedly criticized by Western observers. Critics say the agencies have used donor funds to carry out commercial activities that bypass the anti-Syrian sanctions adopted by the United States and the EU. In 2016, The Guardian report "How Assad regime controls UN aid intended for Syria's children" outlined how the UN had awarded numerous contracts to companies affiliated with sanctioned members of Syrian President Bashar al-Assads inner circle. The story included detailed references to the World Health Organization, which had allegedly spent $5 million for supplies from a blood bank controlled by the Syrian Defense Ministry. The Syria Trust For Development, chaired by the presidents wife, Asma al-Assad, received another $8.5 million, the story said. The UN International Children's Emergency Fund also paid $268,000 to the Al-Bustan Association, run by Rami Makhlouf, the presidents cousin, and an additional sum of $700,000 was assigned for Makhloufs cellphone operator, Syriatel. UN officials, in turn, complained that they had to work exclusively with local partners pre-approved by Damascus. In February 2015, photographs surfaced on social media that appeared to show Islamic State militants distributing UN World Food Program goods primarily wheat flour and vegetable oil in Dayr Hafir, 30 miles east of Aleppo. The UN's deteriorating image among Western sponsors eventually led them to reduce financing for humanitarian aid efforts. In September 2016, 73 Syrian aid groups among them the Syrian American Medical Society and the Syrian Civil Defense withdrew from the Whole-of-Syria campaign over complaints that the Syrian government had "a significant and substantial influence on the performance of UN agencies based in Damascus and their partners, including the Syrian Arab Red Crescent. Meanwhile, Russia and Syria face real challenges in the economic ties between them. The challenges emerge from four primary factors: the de facto territorial partition of Syria, with oil-rich northeastern areas remaining under the control of the Kurdish autonomous administration and the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces; the deficit for Russia of reliable private partners in Syria; the weakness of local means of resolving commercial disputes; and the continued problem of urban terrorism. This is despite the optimistic official declarations both parties made during a December meeting in Damascus of an intergovernmental commission on cooperation in trade, economics, science and technology. Both countries vowed to raise their level of relations in military coordination and political dialogue. Russian entrepreneurs are eager to get involved in UN-sponsored infrastructure projects, based on the Whole-of-Syria approach, including in Kurdish-run areas. They also expect to get sustained access to UN funding, since the Russian state, in contrast to Iran, has been very reluctant to directly fund economic cooperation with Syria. Instead, Moscow outsources to private sector operators. For instance, the Russian Export Center does not participate in providing insurance for economic and trade projects in Syria due to high risks, focusing instead on projects in other Arab countries such as Iraq. Russian merchants are interested in getting contracts from agencies that fund UN-led humanitarian supply efforts to Syria. The supplies include everything from foodstuffs and medical kits to mobile hospitals and electric power generators, along with other essential commodities. The merchants recognize the profitable promise of winning contracts from these agencies, which deal in hard foreign currency, as opposed to the Syrian government, which pays in Syrian pounds. Potential Russian business partners for both the Syrians and the UN, especially midsize and small businesses, also may be interested in UN legal expertise and practical experiences accumulated by various UN agencies and others in Syria and neighboring countries. In a nutshell, Russia and the UN have been increasingly experiencing the need to cooperate with one another in Syria on the basis of a broad scope of political, diplomatic, security, economic and humanitarian aspects. Should this coordination fully materialize, it can indeed become long-term and mutually beneficial. The Donald Trump administration is avoiding criticism of Turkey's decision to annul local elections in Istanbul won by the main opposition group, in stark contrast with some of its closest allies. Monday's announcement of a do-over sparked outrage in Europe, with the European Union demanding that the Supreme Electoral Council justify its far-reaching decision without delay and Germany deeming it incomprehensible. The US State Department, however, is keeping its powder dry, saying it is studying the situation closely. We expect a free, fair and transparent electoral process to be fully respected by all involved so that the will of the voters is acknowledged in the results, a State Department spokesperson said on background. A healthy Turkish democracy is in the interest of Turkey and its partners, including the United States, and helps ensure a stable, prosperous and reliable ally. The nullification follows complaints of electoral fraud by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), which suffered a major setback with the loss of the country's largest and richest city to Ekrem Imamoglu of the Republican People's Party. The new poll, which Imamoglu has condemned as an AKP ploy to steal the election, has been scheduled for June 23. Istanbul's governor, Ali Yerlikaya, has been assigned as acting mayor until then. The electoral council also plans to pursue criminal charges against members of the district election council, accusing them of illegally selecting polling staff. Erdogan defended the decision at a parliamentary meeting of the AKP today, decrying illegality in the March 31 vote. We see this decision as the best step that will strengthen our will to solve problems within the framework of democracy and law, Erdogan said. The Trump administration's cautious approach comes as the United States and Turkey are involved in tough negotiations over delicate issues, including the future of northeast Syria, where Turkey seeks to push back US-backed Kurdish fighters, and US objections to Turkey's pending purchase of a Russian-made missile defense system. US officials may be unwilling to further complicate an already tense relationship for uncertain gain. It may be theyre going to come out with something stronger, it may be that they thought the statement might add ammunition for the AKP against the opposition, it may be something entirely bureaucratic, said Howard Eissenstat, a Turkey specialist at St. Lawrence University in New York. He noted that the Trump administration has not shied away from taking a hard line with Ankara on other issues in recent months, pointing in part to AKP objections last week after the US Embassy in Ankara rolled out a banner touting World Press Freedom Day (Turkey is currently the largest jailer of journalists in the world). Depending on the outcome of the election do-over, in which Imamoglu has vowed to participate in hopes of handing the AKP another stinging defeat, the United States may yet involve itself more forcefully. Its difficult for us to ignore the sliding of democratic principles, not just the mayoral elections, whats happened with reporters, whats happened with so many different areas where democracy has been scarified, said Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., a top member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Americas relationships have to be wrapped in our values. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump's businesses lost a total of more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, according to the New York Times, which said it obtained printouts from Trump's official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts. The newspaper said Trump posted losses in excess of $250 million in both 1990 and 1991, which appeared to be more than double any other individual U.S. taxpayer in an annual IRS sampling of high-income earners. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years, the Times said. Over the 10 years, Trump's core businesses, including casinos, hotels and apartment buildings, lost $1.17 billion, according to the newspaper. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Times quoted a lawyer for the president, Charles Harder, as saying the tax information was "highly inaccurate." Trump, a real estate magnate who turned over the running of his businesses to his sons after his election in 2016, touted his business acumen and negotiating skills on the campaign trail. Trump broke with a decades-old precedent by refusing to release his tax returns as a presidential candidate in 2016 or since being elected, saying he could not do so while his taxes were being audited. On Monday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin refused a request by the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee for Trump's tax returns. Democrats want Trump's tax data as part of their investigations of possible conflicts of interest posed by his continued ownership of extensive business interests, even as he serves as president. WASHINGTON While a top aide complained of nuclear blackmail, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said today that the United States would wait and see what Iran actually does after it notified the remaining parties to the 2015 nuclear deal that it would temporarily suspend abiding by caps on its stockpile of low enriched uranium and heavy water. Iran could take other measures in two months time if the other parties do not find a way for it to get economic benefits to stay in the deal, Iran said, but would return to those limits if they did. We will never be held hostage to the Iran regimes nuclear blackmail, Brian Hook, the US special representative for Iran, told journalists on a call today marking the one-year anniversary of the US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal. The measures Iran announced in formal letters from Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Russia and China were not seen as a near-term proliferation risk, arms control experts said. But they raised the specter that the maximum pressure campaign President Donald Trump imposed when he quit the deal last year could finally drive Iran to breach the arms control pact in the coming months and unravel it. I think [Rouhanis letter] was intentionally ambiguous and we will have to wait to see what Iran's actions actually are, Pompeo said at a joint news conference with British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in London today. They have made a number of statements threatening actions to get the world to jump and we will see what they do. And when they do we will make good decisions. Britains Hunt urged Iran not to take steps that would violate the deal, but acknowledged its economy is in severe distress. According to the letter we received, there is a 60-day window before Iran plans to do anything and they need to be very clear [on] that, Hunt said. If they don't comply with the [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action], there will be consequences. This is a very big moment for Iran, Hunt continued. Their economy is in severe distress. It is the last thing they should be doing for the Iranian people to be investing money in renuclearizing and it will make them less, not more secure. Irans letter indicates that it will stop observing caps on its stockpile of low enriched uranium and of heavy water now, but it is unlikely to exceed them before 60 days, said Ali Vaez, Iran director of the International Crisis Group. Theyll discard the thresholds now, but are unlikely to surpass them within the 60-day window, Vaez told Al-Monitor. Vaez and former US Iran deal negotiator Richard Nephew noted that the measures Iran announced were ones that the United States slashed waivers for last week and that could in effect force Iran to default. [It is] important to note that the two measures that Tehran has adopted (surpassing heavy water and low enriched uranium caps) are the same ones that Secretary Pompeo slashed waivers for last week, Vaez tweeted. Clever move by the Iranians to show where the blame lies. Iran was probably going to violate this provision as a result of the US waiver decision, Nephew tweeted. This way, the US owns it to some degree. Pompeo did not acknowledge that the US waiver decision could have in effect forced an eventual Iranian default on its caps on nuclear fuel and heavy water. This is binary, Pompeo told journalists traveling with him to Baghdad yesterday. Youre either in compliance or youre not. He continued, Weve withdrawn from the agreement. The Iranians will have to make their own choice about how they want to proceed. Rouhani said that Iran had exercised strategic patience for the past year, but that the other parties had not done enough to compensate for the economic pressures caused by the US reimposition of sanctions on its oil and banking sectors. Starting today, Iran does not keep its enriched uranium and produced heavy water limited, tweeted Rouhani. The EU/E3+2 will face Iran's further actions if they can not fulfill their obligations within the next 60 days and secure Iran's interests. Win-Win conditions will be accepted. US officials took a victory lap of sorts at the economic misery the United States had been able to impose on Iran in the past year since quitting the deal, and said more is in the pipeline. Our campaign of maximum pressure is just getting started, Hook said. There is a lot more to come. The presidents guidance is to continue increasing this pressure until Iran is compelled to negotiate on terms favorable to the US, Victoria Coates, the National Security Council's senior director for the Middle East, said on the call. But, she added, Trump still hopes to eventually get to the negotiating table with Iran, saying, The presidents offers to meet with the Iranian regime are sincere. BEIRUT As fighting continued in other areas of the country, part of Yemen's divided parliament met April 13 in Seyon for the first time since the civil war began four years ago. By April 16, the legislators were discussing a draft bill to classify Houthi rebels as a terrorist group. The mostly Shiite, Iran-backed Houthis had suspended the parliament in February 2015. Last month, Yemeni President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, a Sunni who leads the Saudi-backed internationally recognized Yemeni government, called the first session to order. Hadi, Vice President Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar and some of their supporters have been living in exile in Saudi Arabia for about nine months, but traveled to Seyon for the occasion. The head of the General People's Congress, Sultan al-Barqani, was unanimously elected speaker by the 138 members who attended. Later, six more members attended subsequent sessions. The full parliament has 301 members. In an April 16 statement, Barqani described the first session as historic. He postponed all further meetings until the end of the holy month of Ramadan, which lasts from early May to early June. While the parliamentary session could be seen as further fragmentation of the Yemeni state amid the division between the internationally recognized government and the Houthis over the executive and judicial authorities, it pulled the rug out from under the 116 parliamentarians in Sanaa supporting the Houthis. That part of the parliament, which had resumed sessions in August 2016, is headed by Yahya al-Rai. Trying to muster enough members for a quorum (half the total membership plus one, or 151), the Houthis also held elections April 13 to fill the vacant seats of 34 deceased parliamentarians. But the elections only filled the 24 seats in Houthi-controlled areas, leaving the Sanaa part of parliament with 140 seats. The divided parliament is an extension of the split in Yemens other state institutions between the Houthis authority and the internationally recognized government. The countrys official news outlet produces two versions of the news. Each governorate has two governors. A Central Bank in Sanaa is controlled by the Houthis, while the one in Aden is run by the recognized government. This is all in addition to there being two heads of the Supreme Judicial Council and two public prosecutors. The Yemeni parliament, whose members were last elected in 2003 for a six-year term, is still the same today. The opposition had refused to hold elections that were scheduled for 2009, demanding constitutional amendments. The ruling party was headed by then-President Ali Abdullah Saleh. The opposition agreed to postpone the elections for two years. The Arab Spring events in 2011 and an assassination attempt that killed several people and injured Saleh also hampered legislative elections. (Later, Saleh resigned in 2012 and was assassinated in 2017.) In September 2014, the Houthis takeover of the capital Sanaa in 2014 and their 2015 dissolution of parliament and suspension of the constitution prolonged the parliament term as did Saudi Arabia's Operation Decisive Storm, launched in March 2015 in support of Hadi. That campaign was designed to limit Iran's power in Yemen. Commenting on the Seyon session, parliament member Jaabel Taaiman told Al-Monitor, Parliaments in the world are governed by majority, not by political divisions. The minority has no right to object to any decision taken by the numerical majority." According to Taaiman's reasoning, the 138 members attending the Seyon parliament session constituted a quorum. After excluding the 34 dead members of parliament, the legal quorum of half plus one would be 134 instead of 151," he said. He noted that the April 13 session in Seyon attended by the president, vice president, prime minister, ambassadors from 19 countries and parliamentarians representing all the Yemeni provinces was in the best interest of Yemens unity. This is a step toward establishing the federal state in accordance with the outcomes of the National Dialogue Conference [2013-14] that brought together all political components, he noted. Opposition parliament member Ahmed Saif Hashed told Al-Monitor, Convening the parliament in Seyon in tandem with the elections in Sanaa is not coincidental. This falls within the project of tearing up, fragmenting and invading Yemen as much as possible and imposing full trusteeship over it. He continued, The existence of more than one parliament would fragment Yemen [and] expose the stability of Yemen to continuing threats and shake the regions stability. Hashed urged the parliamentarians who met in Seyon to refrain from holding sessions that he said lack legitimacy and legal quorum, arguing that by recognizing a Seyon parliament, they would be legitimizing the war and its outcomes at the expense of the interests of Yemen and its people. On April 10, protests broke out against the plans to hold the Seyon parliament session. The Southern Resistance movement and the Southern Transitional Council, which call for the abolition of Yemeni unity and demand the secession of South Yemen, claimed responsibility for the protests. But lawyer Mohammed al-Maswari agreed with Taaiman's assessment. He told Al-Monitor, In light of the implementation of the constitutional procedures and based on parliamentary bylaws, there cannot be two parliaments, only the one in Seyon. Parliamentary meetings in Sanaa are neither legal nor constitutional." At the Arab level, Saudi Ambassador Mohammed al-Jaber, his Emirati counterpart Salim al-Ghafli and his Bahraini counterpart Hamad al-Khalifa supported Seyons parliament and attended its first session. The ambassadors were accompanied by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) secretary-general's envoy to Yemen Lt. Gen. Madkhal bin Dakheel Al-Hathli; the ambassador of South Korea, Bak Wong Chol; Speaker of the Arab Parliament Meshaal Al-Selmi; and the representative of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Noria Abdullah Al-Hamami. In turn, GCC Secretary-General Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani lauded the Seyon parliamentary session in a statement April 14, stressing the Gulf states' support locally, regionally and internationally. At the international level, US State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus praised the Seyon parliament in a statement April 13. During an April 15 meeting with Hadi in Riyadh, US Ambassador to Yemen Matthew Toler also welcomed the parliament's convening. This was also the position of Britain's Ambassador to Yemen Michael Aron. The parliament in Sanaa, however, issued a statement April 13 flagging the Seyon session as contrary to the constitution and parliament's internal regulations, which both stipulate parliament shall be seated in the capital Sanaa, and any session outside the capital is invalid, unconstitutional and illegal. Of note, the Yemeni division of parliament in Seyon shares similarities with its Lebanese counterpart during the Lebanese civil war. Lebanon's parliament resumed its activities in 1989 after a bloody 15-year war with the same regional and international extensions. Iran, which supported and still supports the Shiite Lebanese Hezbollah, is today also supporting Yemens Houthis. Under the patronage of Saudi Arabia and through the Lebanese parliament, the Taif Agreement of 1989, which helped end the war and is still applied today, was reached. Riyadh sponsored in 2011 the Yemen Gulf initiative. History seems to be repeating itself with the two major regional players Saudi Arabia and Iran in Lebanon and Yemen, with two parliaments holding the longest terms in the world. Will the Yemeni parliament, like its Lebanese counterpart, succeed in instilling peace? Occidental Petroleum Corp. Chief Executive Officer Vicki Hollub is on the cusp of winning a David versus Goliath bidding war that has captivated the oil industry. After making a series of approaches to rival Anadarko Petroleum Corp. about a merger over almost two years, Hollub was outflanked last month when the company embraced a takeover offer from Chevron Corp., despite it being considerably lower than her $38 billion bid. The University of Alabama-trained engineer didn't back down. In a series of bold and creative moves that included securing a $10 billion investment from Warren Buffett, Hollub, 59, is back in pole position in the battle for Anadarko. In gaining the stamp of approval from Anadarko's board on Monday, she has boxed Mike Wirth, her counterpart at Chevron, into a corner with the uncomfortable choice of tarnishing his reputation for financial conservatism or conceding defeat. "Hollub is ripping up the playbook and running an all-out offense on the Anadarko board to favor her bid," Mizuho Securities analyst Paul Sankey said. Three moves have been key to Hollub's ascendancy in the biggest oil-industry bidding war in years. First, she flew to Omaha to explain the deal's benefits to Buffett and returned with a huge investment. Second, she hammered out a sale of Anadarko's African assets to France-based Total for $8.8 billion, locking down a tranche of cash to help pay down debt. A third obstacle was that Anadarko was concerned Occidental needed a shareholder vote while Chevron didn't. "We weren't playing on a level playing field," Hollub said during a conference call with analysts on Monday. To change that, she upped the cash portion of her offer to eliminate the need for a vote, a measure she said provided "clarity" about how the deal would be completed. Chevron has yet to make a counterbid, despite Anadarko's shares now trading close to Hollub's latest offer, suggesting she's the likely victor. Chevron declined to comment. Anadarko was little changed at $75.41 at 7 a.m. in pre-market trading in New York, less than $1 below the value of Occidental's offer. Occidental was also little-changed at $58.75. Still, Hollub's pursuit of Anadarko has taken its toll on Occidental's stock price, which is down more than 10 percent since her interest was first made public and attracted some investor criticism for the deal's cost and leverage. But her desire to take over Anadarko is underpinned by deep expertise in the Permian Basin, the world's biggest oil field and the heart of the U.S. shale boom. The Permian has been central to Hollub's 35-year career at Occidental. She was general manager of the company's operations in the region before the shale revolution and has also held several technical roles in Russia, Venezuela and Ecuador. She took charge of Occidental's shale growth when she became chief operating officer in 2015 before rising to the top job a year later. At Occidental "it didn't matter who you were, what you looked like, where you were from, gender or anything," Hollub said in an interview last year. She characterized Occidental as unique in the male-dominated oil industry -- a place where women were granted the flexibility to both raise a family and move up the corporate ladder, where hard work was rewarded regardless of gender. "I felt like if I stepped up and did as much as I could do, I wasn't going to be denied any kind of chances to do more," she said. Hollub's operational expertise may be behind her pledge to save twice as much money than Chevron can from folding Anadarko into Occidental despite, on paper at least, the target's Permian acreage lining up better with the California-based supermajor. Victory would make Occidental far and away the Permian's largest crude producer. "It's very rare, in fact generational, when you see an opportunity like this come along where you can check every box you want to check from a value standpoint," Hollub said on Monday. "It's got things I believe that haven't even been evaluated yet." If Occidental wins Anadarko it may have a cultural challenge on its hands. Hollub's experience of being treated equally with male colleagues in her career differs dramatically from the career paths described by former employees of Anadarko. Women in the company's Denver office, where 550 of the company's 4,700 workers are based, complained of stunted careers, loutish behavior and sexual relationships between male executives and their female subordinates. Anadarko has said that it's been responsive to complaints about gender inequality, and has recently rolled out programs focused on sexual harassment and discrimination. It's also strengthened its policies on retaliation, and appointed more women to leadership positions. For Hollub, this doesn't appear to be a concern just yet. Anadarko has incredible people too, she said during the call. We believe the combination of their employees continuing to have the opportunity to work these assets with the culture they have blending into our culture which we think is going to be a fairly easy transition. When Patrick Aitken stopped in for a quick lunch at Bibb Street Pizza Company in Montgomery back in March, he had no idea he was about to start a movement with the support of the restaurants owner. A case manager with the Mid-Alabama Coalition for the Homeless, Aitken had been to The Salvation Armys shelter, located nearby, that day. After he ate a salad and a slice of pepperoni pizza, which he says is large enough to fill up up a dinner plate, God laid it on my heart to pay it forward, he says. He paid for two more slices of pizza, wrote encouraging notes on the back of two of his business cards, and taped them to the wall. Then he posted about what hed done on Facebook and urged others to do the same. From there, the idea spread quickly. Aitken gave several interviews to local news media and has since been recognized a few times as the pizza dude. But its not me, he says, insisting the credit should go to the message, not the messenger. Now, some 200 offers of pre-paid slices of pizza and hand-written words of encouragement are offered on the wall at the pizzeria for anyone who needs them. Among the messages left on the notes: You are loved. Have a slice on me, and You are strong! You are loved! The pizza slices cost $2.50 apiece. Ian Walters, who opened Bibb Street Pizza Company just over a year ago, happened to be walking by when he overheard Aitken explain his idea to the cashier. I was happy, he says. For me, when somebody comes up and says theyd like to do something nice for someone, the reaction should be Yes! I like the idea that if you need help, there are people out there who want to give it to you. Walters was the general manager of Little Italy in Auburn, which is owned by his older brother, Patrick Walters, and Mark McClurg. When he decided to go out on his own, he wanted to stay semi-local, and he found the historic building on Bibb Street in Montgomery. Previously housing Lowes Auto Parts for some 40 years, the building originally had served as the stable for the horses that pulled Montgomerys horse-drawn trolleys, Walter says. When he found out Common Bond Brewers was opening a taproom next door, he knew the space would have the cool, fun vibe he wanted. Pizza and beer go well together, he says. It all came together beautifully. I love downtown Montgomery. Were right on the very edge of rebirth, reconstruction and new growth. Aitken has been encouraging the homeless population at his downtown Montgomery church, River City Church, to pick up a pre-paid slice of pizza. Word is getting out, he says, about the opportunity to eat free pizza. Everyone needs a little encouragement, he says. Theres no difference between us and them other than we might have a permanent roof over our heads and they dont. Anyone can start something similar themselves, he says. Its all about the location, product price and ease of the process when a neighbor in need wants food, he wrote on Facebook. Bibb Street Pizza fits every category. Hes already working on spreading the campaign to another restaurant, the new Thats My Dog Jr. run by teenagers on the west side of Montgomery. From the shooting of Muslims during worship at mosques in New Zealand, to the bombing of Christians worshipping in Sri Lankan churches on Easter Sunday, religiously targeted violence seems to be at epidemic levels. During the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which includes daytime fasting by Muslims which began on Monday, Alabama Muslims want to promote peace, friendship and understanding. They are doing so by inviting non-Muslims to dinner, specifically to the iftar, the evening feast that takes place after sunset to break a daytime fast. The nightly community meals are held at the Hoover Crescent Islamic Center. Were continuing the tradition of inviting people of all faiths and no faith to share the blessings of Ramadan, said Ashfaq H. Taufique, president of Birmingham Islamic Society. We extend the invitation to all, he said. Im hoping they become ambassadors for our community, to people who dont see any reason for dialogue. The level of interest that Christians in Alabama have in learning about Islam is a positive indicator, he said. This year, I believe the number of calls coming is probably doubled, Taufique said. What happened in New Zealand has become a motivating force. He attributes this years heightened response in part to a mass killing of Muslims earlier this year. An extremist shooter killed 51 people and injured 49 during Friday prayers on March 15 at mosques in New Zealand, the worst terrorist attack in that nations history. In Alabama, Muslims are hoping for peace and respect from their religious brethren. Churches and Sunday School groups, along with teachers and government workers, have signed up to visit the mosque during Ramadan. They signed up for reservations on the Birmingham Islamic Society web site, bisweb.org. We want them to learn more about Muslims and Islam from the original source, rather than from people who dont know what theyre talking about, Taufique said. On April 21 this year, it was Christians who were primarily targeted this year in multiple bombings that killed 253 people and injured more than 500. All these violations taken against minorities of any religion saddens me and makes me angry, Taufique said. Taufique said that when he was growing up in Karachi, Pakistan, Muslims had respect for Christians and vice versa. He graduated in 1967 from St. Pauls Catholic School. I went to Catholic missionary school, Taufique said. My teachers were fathers and nuns from Catholic missionary schools. It brought tears to my eyes, Taufique said. It saddens me for any act of violence to happen against a religious minority. Taufique said his best friend his last three years at Catholic school was Catholic boy. They would go for adventures on Saturday, while also stopping to worship. He would go in St. Patricks Cathedral to pray and I would stand outside waiting for him, Taufique said. I would go to a masjid (mosque). He would wait outside for me. When are we going to get that respect for each other back? It was loving. You dont know how much we miss it. Taufique said his old neighborhood in Karachi was a beacon of religious tolerance. We had Christians, Bahais and Zoroastrians, in a building occupied by people of different faiths, he said. We accepted there was a difference in how we pray, how we worship. There was never an issue of violence or hate. The current atmosphere of violence shows no such sense of tolerance, Taufique said. It brings tears to my eyes, he said. Taufique said there is a political tendency to condemn Muslims in relation to terrorist attacks, but a reluctance to speak out when they are the victims of terrorism. The Birmingham Islamic Society keeps a letter condemining ISIS on its website, along with a statement condemning terrorism. It is a shame that we are singled out as a community that if something happens to us in terms of blood, violent action, discrimination, people in higher office do not speak; they do not want to upset their base, Taufique said. We are also citizens of this country. A wet and sometimes stormy period for Alabama is set to get started on Thursday. A few storms could be on the strong side tomorrow, but widespread severe weather isnt expected. NOAAs Storm Prediction Center has part of Alabama in a marginal risk of severe weather on Thursday, which means isolated severe storms will be possible. The latest update, coming in just after 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, expanded the marginal risk area to cover more of Alabama and edged the slight risk area into far west Alabama. (A slight risk means scattered severe storms are possible.) The tornado threat is expected to be low with this system; instead strong straight-line winds and heavy rain will be possible. The National Weather Service thinks the storms could be weakening as they move into Alabama on Thursday afternoon, with the parent storm system far away and to the north. Thursday so far is the only day with an organized severe weather risk, and even that is on the low side. Storms on Friday through Sunday could be strong, but widespread severe weather isnt expected. Several smaller systems are expected to move through the state over the weekend, hiking up rain chances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Things are expected to begin to dry out on Monday as another front sweeps through. New York Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is blasting Georgias new heartbeat abortion bill as a back door ban to prevent the procedure altogether. In a twitter message Tuesday, Ocasio-Cortez wrote that most of the men writing these bills dont know the first thing about a womans body outside of the things they want from it, she wrote, adding many women may not realize they are pregnant until they reach the six weeks point. So this is a backdoor ban, she wrote. 6 weeks pregnant = 2 weeks late on your period. Most of the men writing these bills dont know the first thing about a womans body outside of the things they want from it. Its relatively common for a woman to have a late period + not be pregnant. So this is a backdoor ban. https://t.co/xWd9GAj51b Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) May 8, 2019 Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed legislation yesterday that would ban abortions around six weeks of pregnancy. Similar laws have been signed into law in Mississippi, Kentucky and Ohio and Alabama is considering a measure that would make it a crime for a doctor to perform an abortion. The Alabama legislation does not provide exceptions for instances of rape or incest. Under current Georgia law, women can seek an abortion during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. If not blocked by the court, the ban will take effect on Jan. 1, 2020. The Georgia measure would ban abortions once there is a detectable human heartbeat. It does allow for abortions in the case of rape or incest, to save the life of the mother or if the fetus is determined not to be viable due to medical issues. Alabama legislation aimed at the core of national abortion rights moved a step closer to final approval and its goal of a court challenge to Roe v. Wade today. The Alabama Senate Judiciary Committee approved the bill on a 7-2 vote after a public hearing. The bill would make it a felony for a doctor to perform an abortion in Alabama. Committee approval this morning puts the bill in position for a vote Thursday by the state Senate. That would forward the bill to Gov. Kay Ivey, who could sign it into law. The committee adopted an amendment to allow abortions in cases of pregnancies caused by rape or incest. The amendment, by Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, was adopted on a voice vote. The committee then approved the bill, with Sens. Linda Coleman-Madison, D-Birmingham; and Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham, casting the two no votes. Voting in favor of the bill were Sens. Greg Albritton, R-Atmore; Will Barfoot, R-Montgomery; Sam Givhan, R-Huntsville; Arthur Orr, R-Decatur; Larry Stutts, R-Sheffield; Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, the chairman; and Whatley. The vote came after a public hearing during which five people spoke in opposition to the bill and four spoke in support. Rep. Terri Collins, R-Decatur, the sponsor, urged the committee not to add amendments, saying the original bill would provide the clearest challenge to Roe v. Wade on the issue of right to life of the unborn. The bill already included an exception to allow abortions in cases of serious health risks to the mother. Collins opposed adding the exception for rape and incest. To accept another amendment that weakens the argument, or diverts the message of the argument, which is the baby in the womb is a person, dilutes the whole message, Collins said. Whatley said he did not think the bill could pass the Senate without the rape and incest exception. I believe this bill will not survive the Senate without an amendment, Whatley said. And thats the legislative process. Weve heard today, no amendments, no amendments. However, thats the process. Amendments are the process. The full Senate will consider the amendment again when the bill reaches the Senate floor on Thursday. During the public hearing, one of the opponents of the bill who spoke was Samantha Brakely, who said she became pregnant after she was raped by a co-worker in 2017. When I found out that I was pregnant, I cant begin to describe the words, the emotions that I felt, Brakely told the committee. I knew I could not carry this pregnancy to term. I knew that. Brakely said her life would have been at risk had she not been able to choose to have an abortion. If abortion was not legal, I would still have one, somewhere, somehow, Brakely said. Or, I just would not be here. Because theres no way that I would be able to carry my rapists child. Theres no way. And I want you all to know that as you are deciding on this. Please, please, I am begging you, please dont take away my choice. Please dont take away so many other young womens choices. We need access to safe, legal abortion. We need it. We have to have it. Samantha Brakely speaks to the Alabama Senate Judiciary Committee in opposition to a bill to make abortion a felony in Alabama. (Mike Cason/mcason@al.com) Christy Harmon, a pregnancy counselor for Lifeline Childrens Services, an adoption, orphan care and foster care organization, said there is no shortage of families willing to adopt children from women with unintended pregnancies under difficult circumstances. Harmon described several examples of women she has counseled -- a young professional woman carrying a baby with spina bifida who would need extreme medical care, a homeless girl who was a prostitute and had used illegal drugs during her pregnancy, and a 42-year-old woman who lived in a trailer park, was on methadone and had recently been released from prison. In every one of these situations we had not one, but multiple families step up and say that they were willing to adopt these babies born to women in difficult medical and social situations, Harmon said. Multiple families. Every day we see the positive impact on women who make the life affirming choices of parenting or adoption. And more importantly, we see the humanity of the unborn child and his moral right to be protected. After the public hearing, committee members got a chance to comment on the bill. Coleman-Madison, a Democratic senator from Birmingham, spoke out against it. She said she remembered from her high school days that girls in her neighborhood did not have access to abortions but those with money did. The bottom line is that when the dust settles, that is still going to happen. The persons with the means, the money, the wherewithal, they will still have abortions, Coleman-Madison said. Coleman-Madison talked about the states problems such as a historically high rate of infant mortality and other health care problems and the closing of rural hospitals. She said men would think differently if they knew what it was like to carry a child and give birth. I am adamantly opposed to the concept of regulating a persons body, Coleman-Madison said. "You dont find bills that regulate mens personal body parts. "I have a few ideas. First of all, the Bible says if part of your body offends you, what do you do? You cut it off. In this case, we havent come up with a bill about the people who rape, to castrate. That may be one that we need to look at. Or if a person gets a girl pregnant out of wedlock or under age, maybe thats something that we need to think about. It becomes a different thing when its your body part." Coleman-Madison proposed an amendment saying that if a woman was forced to give birth because of the abortion ban, the state would bear the cost of prenatal care and medical care for the child until age 3, the cost of the womans mental and psychological care and the cost of the birth. The amendment failed on a voice vote. Sen. Clyde Chambliss, R-Prattville, is handling the bill in the Senate. Life is precious. And unborn children, they deserve the protection of their life just as an infant just after birth, Chambliss said Tuesday. Last week, the House of Representatives passed the bill 74-3, with support by the Republican majority and opposition from Democrats, who proposed amendments but mostly sat out the vote. Chambliss, like the bills sponsor, Rep. Terri Collins, R-Decatur, said the goal is to trigger a lawsuit that could overturn the Roe v. Wade decision based on the concept that the unborn have a right to life. We need to get to that question of personhood," Chambliss said. "Does the Constitution speak to that, not speak to that? So, if we can get to that question, then we think the Supreme Court would need to take that up and to answer that question. Chambliss said Tuesday his initial thoughts are to keep the bill as it is but said that could change. Im studying that issue in detail right now with the various attorneys and trying to get all the input, Chambliss said Tuesday afternoon. On the surface, that would be my hope. But were working through the input from the various attorneys. And then obviously my colleagues in the Senate will have some say in that. Sen. Malika Sanders-Fortier of Selma, a lawyer, first-time senator and one of five Democrats on the 12-member Judiciary Committee, said abortion is a difficult issue in need of thoughtful debate. I believe in the human rights of unborn children, Sanders-Fortier said. "And I believe in the human rights of women. And as I was growing up in my government class, my teacher told me at Selma High School, my government teacher told me thats how freedom works, is that one persons rights end where another persons begins. "I think this is the one context that where this is a very challenging issue because its so layered. You have women, whose bodies house babies. Every human being should have say-so over their bodies. But in this particular case, its not just her body thats an issue, its also the life of another human being. So, I think what I would rather see, rather than a bill like this, is our state have a conversation thats not a political conversation about how do we protect both the rights of women and unborn babies. And I know to some people that is impossible. I just dont see it like that. The public hearing is scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. This story was edited at 1:22 p.m. to add Sen. Tom Whatley to the list of those voting for the bill. The lights were still on last week above the tinted storefront at Huntsvilles Health Massage on University Drive, but the front door was locked tight. Last month, law enforcement closed it and three other massage parlors owned by Yuping Tang and operated by her daughter, Jiao Liu, alleging the spas housed a multi-million-dollar human trafficking operation that forced women to work long hours and perform sex acts. They used new powers lawmakers granted last year giving the Alabama Attorney Generals Office extraordinary authority to shut down businesses engaged in labor and sex trafficking without filing criminal charges. On April 17, authorities seized business accounts, property and residences associated with Tang and Liu, which were turned over to a receiver in Florida. Tang and Liu have not yet been charged with any crimes and the legal proceedings have been conducted mostly in secret. A judge sealed the civil case and officials from the attorney generals office refused to disclose the dates and times of hearings limiting public view of this new legal process. An attorney general press release and a notice hanging on the door of one shuttered massage parlor provide the only available information in the case. The press release does not include the number of victims, who were of Chinese nationality, according to the statement. Carolyn Potter, executive director of The WellHouse, an organization that provides support and housing for victims of human trafficking, said the attorney generals office did not contact the organization about the Huntsville case. I dont even know if they rescued any survivors from that massage parlor, she said. The seizure did not occur under the civil asset forfeiture provision of the criminal law, which allows law enforcement to take money and property used in crimes. But like civil asset forfeiture, this process will play out in civil court, where defendants have no Constitutional right to an attorney if they cant afford to hire one. Proponents of the law say it wasnt designed with asset seizure in mind, but to provide a quick way for state authorities to shut down dangerous operations and hold their property for the benefit of victims, a portion of the law thats currently unclear. With this civil action, we were able to respond to the dire urgency of the situation, shut down the trafficking operation, rescue the victims, and preserve assets that can be used to help those who have been harmed, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said in a press release. Former state Rep. Jack Williams sponsored the 2018 bill establishing civil enforcement powers for the attorney generals office for human trafficking cases. My goal through providing resources to folks was to help them battle addictions and move forward with their lives because so much has been taken away from them, Williams said. We wanted to provide resources to help them rebuild their lives from the people who destroyed their lives. Kathleen Kim, a professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, helped craft the California law that gives survivors of human trafficking the right to sue perpetrators. Unlike in Alabama, she said lawmakers in that state did not include a provision to allow the attorney general to act on behalf of victims. Instead, the victims would have to bring suit themselves. There would be a concern that once the government takes over the action, the concerns of the victims would be taken out of the mix, she said. A legal notice on the door of a shuttered massage parlor Attorneys general should work closely with victim advocacy groups to ensure survivors remain protected during litigation, Kim said. Thats one of the reasons the Alabama attorney generals office requested the court make the case confidential, according to spokeswoman Joy Patterson. Kim raised another concern about the Alabama law because it does not explicitly state that assets seized during a civil action will aid victims if the judge rules against business owners. Williams said that was the intent of the law. Criminal laws against human trafficking require restitution payment to victims first but Alabamas civil law, used in this case, does not make any specific statement about what happens to seized assets. Kim said the law could act as a powerful deterrent for people engaged in illicit conduct. Attorney Gregory Zarzaur, who represents human trafficking survivors in civil lawsuits, said he hopes it can help survivors learn about their rights to visa protection and victim compensation. Like Kim, he has concerns about how the law is written, and that it doesnt specify that seized property aid victims. My question is about the assets, he said. Whats going to happen to them if they are successful in showing this is a criminal enterprise under the action of the attorney general? Massage businesses have faced increased law enforcement scrutiny in recent years. The Polaris Project, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., released a report in 2018 identifying 9,000 spas and massage parlors implicated in human trafficking. Owners of illicit massage parlors frequently move workers from one location to another and often have connections to organized crime, according to the report. That can make it difficult to identify victims and secure assets during lengthy criminal investigations, Zarzaur said. I do think the idea of a [restraining order] could benefit those victims who are in a situation for such a short period of time they have little prospect of being rescued or represented, Zarzaur said. Securing criminal convictions for human trafficking can be difficult as shown by a recent Florida case involving New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Prosecutors dropped charges of human trafficking against owners of Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter, Fla., despite video evidence of prostitution. In 2016, Huntsville prosecutors indicted six people for promoting prostitution in a human trafficking crackdown at Royal Spa. All six pleaded guilty to misdemeanors and did not serve time behind bars. Law enforcement agencies often face obstacles that make investigations tricky, including language barriers and victims intimidated into silence. Traffickers can use criminal networks to smuggle money and assets out of communities during investigations. Because the case is sealed, only the attorney generals press release reveals any information about the evidence against Tang and Liu. The alleged traffickers forced women to work long hours, restricted their movements and housed them in terrible conditions, according to the statement. One of the businesses shut down in April had dozens of reviews on a website geared toward buyers of sex far more than any other massage business in Huntsville. Neither Tang or Liu responded to phone calls or messages. This immediate civil court action was vital, the Attorney General explained, to keep defendants from moving and hiding their victims as well as to stop disposal or transfer of assets, according to the press release. In addition to financial accounts, the defendants business premises and residences have been seized. Attorney General Marshall has asked the Court to permanently shut down the defendants human-trafficking network and grant monetary damages as restitution for its victims. A bill to prohibit cities from banning plastic bags and other disposable containers failed in the Alabama Senate today. The bill, which was opposed by Birmingham, Mobile and some other Alabama cities, failed by a single vote on a procedural vote. The sponsor, Sen. Steve Livingston, R-Scottsboro, said the state needed uniform regulations and not a hodge-podge of city ordinances. Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham, told Livingston he was opposed to the bill because the Birmingham City Council had passed a resolution opposing it. Mobile and other cities on Alabamas Gulf Coast opposed the bill. The bill needed approval by three-fifths of senators on the procedural vote called the budget isolation resolution, which is required for all bills before the state budgets pass. The vote was 17-13, one vote shy of three-fifths. The bill said cities could not regulate the use, disposal or sale of plastic bags and bottle, foam cups and other "auxiliary containers." Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Daphne, a former Baldwin County Commissioner, said he was not aware of any communities moving to restrict plastic containers but said the proposed legislation might prompt some to consider it. Elliott said plastic containers had their place but the state should not preclude local regulations. We need to still give our local governments the ability to govern locally, and I think that was a big issue, Elliott said. And as a former county commissioner and a local government guy, that is something that you will see me apply to every piece of legislation. I want to make sure our local governments have the ability to govern locally. Edited at 6:44 p.m. to remove stray type in last paragraph. LAHORE: A bomb targeting Pakistani police outside a major Sufi shrine in the city of Lahore on Wednesday killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 20, officials said. The blast, a day after the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, went off at a police checkpoint near the Data Darbar, one of the largest Muslim shrines in South Asia, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors a year. Police was the prime target in this attack. We are collecting forensic evidence to ascertain the nature of the blast, said Ashfaq Khan, deputy inspector general of police operations in Lahore. A police spokesman said the death toll rose to 10, six of them civilians and four police after a police officer died of his wounds. Officials earlier said eight police had died. At least 23 people were wounded. Muhammad Farooq, a spokesman for the citys rescue services, said at least seven of the wounded were in critical condition. Police set up checkpoints on main roads leading to the shrine and hospitals were placed on alert, officials said. The attack was claimed by the Hizbul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban, a movement that has been fighting the government for years. In a statement, the group said the attack targeted police and had been timed to avoid civilian casualties. This attack was carried out at a time when there were no civilians near the police, said Abdul Aziz Yousafzai, a spokesman for the militant group. Prime Minister Imran Khan issued a statement condemning the attack and asking the provincial government to help the victims. Sufis, who follow a mystical form of Islam that has been practised in South Asia for centuries, have been regularly attacked by hardline Sunni Muslim militants in the past. In 2010, two suicide bombers struck the Data Darbar shrine killing 42 people and wounding 175, in an attack official said was carried out by the Pakistani Taliban. Militant violence has since declined sharply in Pakistan after a sustained crackdown following the countrys deadliest attack in 2014, which killed more than 150 people, many children, at a school in the western city of Peshawar. Since an attack in a Lahore park targeting Christians celebrating Easter in 2016 killed more than 70 people, Pakistans second largest city has been largely quiet although an attack last year killed nine people. However, officials warned that Wednesdays blast showed the need for vigilance during Ramadan. People should remain aware of their surroundings when going to pray, said a Punjab provincial minister, Mian Aslam. Police said a general security alert was in force but there had been no specific warning about a threat to the Data Darbar, which protected by heavy layers of security. A Jefferson State Community College campus police officer this morning shot a person who came onto campus armed with a machete. The shooting happened at the Carson Road campus in Birmingham about 9 a.m. Eyewitness Dontavious Lewis, 21, said he was a passenger on a MAX bus when the suspect got on carrying the machete. He said he spoke with the man, but the man was just talking to himself. When the bus stopped in the parking lot just past the main entrance of the campus, the suspect exited the bus, still carrying the machete. Within minutes, Lewis said, gunfire erupted. Danger identified at the Jefferson Campus! Seek immediate shelter in classrooms or offices! Remain inside until all clear is given, the community college posted on Facebook. "I guess he was trying to kill folks at the school,'' Lewis said. He had the machete in his hand. Lewis said he heard multiple shots fired. "It was more than 25, more than 30,'' he said. The wounded suspect collapsed in the parking lot next to the transit bus. "His eyes were open but he was down,'' Lewis said. It was right in front of me. I feel like it was crazy. Police are on the scene of an officer-involved shooting on the Jeff State campus on Carson Road pic.twitter.com/juXXwK3okS carol robinson (@RobinsonCarol) May 8, 2019 The suspect was treated by medics on the scene and then taken to UAB Hospitals Trauma Center with potentially life-threatening injuries. Birmingham police and Jefferson County sheriffs deputies responded to the scene to assist Jeff State police. The State Bureau of Investigation has taken over as lead agency on the probe, which is standard procedure for officer-involved shootings. SBI agents arrived on the scene about 9:45 a.m. SBI Lt. Jon Riley said the MAX bus driver had notified campus police of the passenger acting strangely on the bus. Campus Officer Ray Channel said officers were there when the bus pulled into the parking lot and the confrontation with the armed suspect was almost immediate. An officer is expected to be taken to the hospital with minor injuries sustained in the confrontation with the suspect. Channel said classes are ongoing and will remain on schedule for the rest of the day. The threat, he said, was quickly over. Authorities said the suspect is not believed to have any ties to the school. The incident is rare for the east Birmingham campus. "It is unusual but we do train for these things,'' Channel said. We should always be on alert because it is happening so much around the country. Jeff State spokesman David Bobo released this statement late Wednesday afternoon: "Jefferson State Community Colleges top priority is to provide a safe learning environment for our students and a safe working environment for our employees. On the morning of May 8, Jefferson State had an officer-involved shooting on our Jefferson Campus. We have a fully-trained police department, who immediately responded to the incident and contained the threat to ensure the safety of our campus. We also successfully implemented our emergency communication and response measures to protect our students and faculty. We are grateful to the Alabama State Bureau of Investigation, the City of Birmingham and Jefferson County for their prompt assistance. A Jefferson State police officer has been treated and released from a local hospital for minor injuries. The Alabama State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is now handling the investigation of this incident. Jefferson State will respect the integrity of the Bureaus investigation and fully cooperate in every way. Additional details of the incident will be released at the appropriate time by SBI. Counselors will be available tomorrow on the Jefferson Campus in George Wallace Hall, room 115 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. for anyone needing services. Jefferson State has resumed normal operations and summer classes are ongoing." This is a developing story and will be updated. A citizens advisory committee looking into proposed alternatives for the 22-acre Mobile Civic Center site consists of city employees and representatives from Mardi Gras societies and neighborhood associations. But their names are not public, and City Council members are pushing for details. They are hoping Mayor Sandy Stimpsons office will oblige. We havent released the names but we understand there is interest, said George Talbot, spokesman for Stimpson. We held it back to this point because it is a competitive process We wanted to protect them as they move through the decision process. Talbot said the names would likely be released soon. Pressure mounted on the administration Tuesday for the names to be disclosed. Council Vice President Levon Manzie and Councilwoman Bess Rich repeatedly asked for the names to be released. Let me make it crystal clear, I am not asking for this information for nefarious reasons, said Manzie to the citys administration during the councils pre-meeting Tuesday. Im asking for it because the citizens in my community are asking, Who is in the committee? I dont know. Rich said she recently wrote Stimpson asking for the council to be informed about who is on the selection committee. Hopefully, we will, she said. Mardi Gras factor Interest about the committee and its membership has increased in the past week after news emerged that city officials were eying the 23 East warehouse at the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley as a temporary home for Mardi Gras balls while the Civic Center property is redeveloped. That quickly sparked speculation that Mardi Gras events could be permanently relocated to the 23 East warehouse starting in 2021, harming the Carnival big show by disconnecting the parties from downtown. Mardi Gras is here to stay, said Manzie. I think those who are predicting a future of it being doomed because of the Civic Center, I dont buy into that notion. But you get those kinds of thoughts when there is no information or transparency. Stimpson, three council members and a host of representatives from Mobiles Mardi Gras societies traveled to New Orleans on April 29, and toured Mardi Gras World. The massive, 300,000-square-foot working warehouse is a tourist attraction south of downtown New Orleans along the Mississippi River. Its where many of the Big Easys floats are made, as well as some of the floats used during Mobiles Mardi Gras season. City officials have acknowledged that apprehension exists among Mardi Gras societies about the relocation of some seasons best-attended and most-elaborate balls. Also complicating matters is the difficulty that exists in creating another Civic Center-type venue at the same site. The 55-year-old Civic Center, built in 1964, is scheduled to face a wrecking ball after costing the city more than a million dollars each year in annual upkeep. Stimpson, in 2015, first discussed his interest in tearing down the structure and replacing it with something new. CBRE, a firm that manages the Civic Center, estimated last year that short-term work to upgrade the venue would cost around $14 million. Of that, $5.3 million would be needed to refurbish the discolored metal dome. CBRE look at all the economics and they are looking at it from a business standpoint, Talbot said. They said we cannot make an arena of that size work and that needs to be used 365 days a year. And so when you have that kind of feedback, you look at alternatives. He added, The easy thing to do is kick the can down the road and not talk about this. But I think (Stimpson) is talking about this as lets get this on the table and figure out a solution. We want to get these organizations involved. Transparency Mobile City Council Vice President Levon Manzie speaks to the local media on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, at Government Plaza in Mobile, Ala. (John Sharp/jsharp@al.com). The Civic Center advisory committee has interviewed development firms and discussed options for the property. The committee has whittled its recommendation to two firms, and interviews are ongoing before a winning project emerges. That recommended project, Talbot said, will have to work through a process that involves scrutiny by citys Planning Commission before the City Council decides. David Preston, a Mobile resident and frequent observer of city politics, suggested that the council consider all proposals for the Civic Center site before moving forward with a specific project. There may be an idea or two that werent selected, that could be incorporated into the project to make it more inclusive and better for all involved, he said. Manzie said the council was aware of the advisory committees formation, but was never told of its composition, its exact marching orders or where its members live. I dont want Baldwin County or Washington County or Jackson County I dont care where the county is, but I dont want them making decisions for citizens who live here in the city of Mobile, Manzie said. He added, It goes back to one key word, transparency. Let the public know who is making the decision, even if it is an advisory committee. The north Alabama teen charged with manslaughter in a high-speed accident that killed three classmates will be tried as a juvenile, a Lauderdale County Circuit Court judge ruled Tuesday. Kate Boggus was 16 at the time of the April 2018 incident that killed fellow Wilson School students Braden Turner, 17, and 16-year-olds Coby Hines and Tyler Nelson. Boggus, now 17, will be tried on manslaughter and assault charges as a juvenile, Lauderdale County Circuit Court Judge Gil Self ruled Tuesday, according to AL.com news partner WHNT. She faces up to three years of incarceration if convicted. Boggus and 16-year-old Kaylee Ann McGee survived the crash with minor injuries. Prosecutors claim Boggus was driving at an excessive speed on Lauderdale County Road 30 in St. Florian when she ran off the road amid wet and dark conditions. When the vehicle came back down onto the pavement, Boggus lost control of the car, records state. Police said the car left the road and hit a sign, fence and gate before colliding with a tree. Police documents say the car was traveling eastbound when it went over a hill crest and became airborne. When the vehicle came back down onto the pavement, Boggus lost control of the car, records state. Police said the car left the road and hit a sign, fence and gate before colliding with a tree. Boggus is accused of recklessly causing the deaths of Turner, Hines and Nelson, an indictment states. The assault charge stems from serious physical injury suffered by McGee, court records show. This is an opinion column. One of the first things you learn when starting school is that there are rules. No chewing gum. No fighting. No pants or skirts above the knee. No talking in class. Break the rules and you will suffer consequences. Or so were told as kids. But when it comes to charter schools in Alabama, rules dont seem to matter much for administrators and state officials, that is. Not the students. As the Alabama Political Reporters Josh Moon uncovered last month, a charter school in Washington County, Woodland Prep, appears to be breaking lots of rules, and state officials who are supposed to enforce those rules dont seem to care. In fact, they seem to be in on just whatever the heck is going on there. This story is deep and weird onion layers of non-profits and for-profits, a school principal (identified on the schools website only as Amy O.) who wont be the school principal after all, connections to a Turkish exile and Islamic preacher, and more. But I want to focus on the folks at the top. The people who made the rules, and then broke them. When Alabama legalized charter schools in 2015, the Alabama Legislature created the Alabama Public Charter School Commission, and it set out a process for the creation of new charters in the state. A handful of school boards, just five, asked to be allowed to approve charters. Most left it to the state. But those local systems, like Birmingham, that asked to approve charters rarely if ever do for reasons easy to understand its their districts money that will be redirected to the charters. And thats where the Charter School Commission comes in. The Commission can overrule a school district, but when they do, theyre supposed to do certain things. First, the Commission is supposed to determine whether theres a genuine need for the charter school. And second, the Commission is supposed to make certain the proposed charter school meets nationally recognized standards. In Washington County, neither seems to have happened. In public forums there, an overwhelming majority of speakers opposed the charter school. The mayor in Chatom, the Washington County seat, says he doesnt know anyone whos for it. But lets assume that the Charter School Commission's job was always to overrule local officials and ignore community push-back. Theres still that national standards hurdle to clear. Woodland Prep didnt check that box, either. The Alabama Department of Education hired the National Association of Charter School Authorizers to review applications and make certain charter applicants are up to spec. The NACSA said Woodland Prep didnt meet its standards, and raised questions about the schools curriculum, management and financial plans. And yet, the Commission approved Woodland Prep for a charter, anyway. It didnt follow its own rules. This isnt the only instance where the Commission has ignored the NACSA after it raised concerns. The association has questioned the qualifications of other charters, too. When a reporter from the Washington Post asked why, Commission President Mac Buttrum all but said because we said so. The majority of the Commission voted to approve the applicant, he told her in an email. Well, that answers everything. The Alabama Department of Education has dropped its contract with NACSA, but state Sup. Eric Mackey wouldnt answer the Posts questions, either. But from the outside in, it sure looks like the Commission lowered its standards so the school could pass its test you know, the same thing school privatization folks accuse public schools of doing. And lawmakers, including state Senate Pro Tem Del Marsh, who pushed charter school legalization in 2015, seem to be fine with how things are working out. This isnt the first bait-and-switch weve seen like this. The Alabama Accountability Act, which Marsh also pushed through the Legislature, promised private school scholarships for students zoned for failing schools only for scholarships to go to students zoned for schools doing just fine. But Woodland Prep is something new. Were told incessantly that education is an investment in the future. But not all investments pan out. Many go bust. If Woodland Prep were a publicly traded business, youd be a fool to put your money in it. But because its a charter school, the government is already doing that for you. Accountability? Transparency? Standards? These were all the things we were promised. But the message from Montgomery is clear: Rules are for public schools, and public schools only. Not for charters, and not for those who gave the charters a pass. Kyle Whitmire is the state political columnist for the Alabama Media Group. Want access to the best analysis and in-depth reporting about Alabama each week? Sign up for the weekly Reckon Report newsletter and follow Reckon on Facebook and Twitter. Follow Whitmire on Twitter and Facebook, too. And Instagram. A man who was fatally shot late Monday in DeKalb County has been identified by the authorities as 33-year-old Jeremy Heath Perry. Perry died at the scene on the 2500 block of County Road 20 in the Skrium community, said DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden. Perry was from Geraldine. Deputies were called to investigate a report of a shooting around 8:30 p.m. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to all families involved, Welden said in a news release. I also ask that the public be patient with the process, the sheriff added. Information must be limited until the investigation is complete." Authorities havent released details about the circumstances of the shooting or any suspect information. Further details werent immediately available. President Donald Trump promised a swift infusion of federal aid to the Florida Panhandle seven months after devastating Hurricane Michael as he rallied supporters Wednesday for his re-election. Trump addressed a crowd of thousands at an outdoor amphitheater, looking to rally loyalists in the reliably Republican corner of the swing state as he kicks his 2020 efforts into high gear. Federal emergency funds to the area hit by the Category 5 hurricane and elsewhere have been caught up in a Washington standoff over Trump's opposition to more hurricane aid for Puerto Rico. Youre getting your money one way or another, Trump promised supporters in Panama City Beach, holding up a chart showing federal emergency aid to Florida, Texas and the island territory, And were not going to let anybody hold it up. Trump took a victory lap after last week's jobs report showing the nation's unemployment at a generational low, crediting his cuts to taxes and regulations. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who accompanied the president to Florida on Air Force One, said the 2020 election was a referendum on whether to allow Democrats to undo Trump policies like tax reform. "This election is about reversing all of that," he said. "It's about going backward on all of that." Trump also told his supporters not to worry about this weeks talks between U.S. and Chinese negotiators, including his threat to increase tariffs on nearly all Chinese imports at the end of the week. They broke the deal in talks meant to de-escalate a year-long trade war, he said. Visit the Alabama Hurricane Center for more weather news . "We won't back down until China stops," Trump said. "The era of economic surrender is over." Trump earlier surveyed recovery efforts and lingering damage from last year's storm, and he announced that the Department of Housing and Urban Development would be granting $448 million to the state for hurricane response. "We've already given you billions and billions of dollars and there's a lot more coming," Trump said. Trump was greeted by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and local elected officials as he arrived at Tyndall Air Force Base, which was severely affected by the storm. Almost every building appeared damaged in some way, including a collapsed hangar. The White House said almost all 700 structures on the base were damaged, roughly one-third were destroyed, and 11,000 base personnel were evacuated. The White House blamed "Democrat obstruction" for a stoppage in recovery work, with about 120 projects being deferred. After touring the base, Trump took credit for rebuffing some who wanted to close the base as a result of the damage, promising officials it will be rebuilt "better than ever." The area has received about $1.1 billion in federal disaster aid through mid-April, but disagreements in Washington have left many still struggling to recover from the storm. Trump repeated his claim that $91 billion has been spent in Puerto Rico, and said falsely it was the largest-ever federal disaster program. According to the White House, Trump's $91 billion figure includes about $50 billion in expected future disaster disbursements that could span decades, along with $41 billion already approved. Actual aid to Puerto Rico has flowed more slowly from federal coffers about $11 billion so far. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said House Democrats were once again taking up a $17.2 billion disaster relief package this week, with added money for Midwestern and Southern states hit by recent storms. But she said Senate Republicans have been more committed to "hurting our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico than healing communities everywhere." "Meanwhile, the president has doubled down on Republicans' callousness" by delaying assistance payments to the island, she said. The campaign rally comes as Trump and congressional Democrats are locked in a bitter fight over constitutional powers related to special counsel Robert Mueller's report and probes into the president's tax returns. Trump called on Democrats to stop the investigations and work with his administration to boost infrastructure spending, predicting their efforts would boost his re-election chances. They want to do investigations instead of investments, said Trump. I think it drives us right on to victory in 2020. An Alabama choir whose bus was involved in a fiery crash over the weekend performed Monday for the daughter of the man killed in the accident. The Aeolians of Oakwood University sang for 15-year-old Iyanna Bishop, ABC7News.com reported. Bishops father, Kenneth, was killed when his SUV hit the back of the Huntsville choirs bus during a multi-vehicle pileup in Brisbane, California Saturday morning. Iyanna Bishop thanked the choir for singing and for trying to help her father. "I would like to say thank you to the Aeolians for trying to get my Dad out of the car before it burned," she said. "I felt like my Dad was in the room when they were singing for me." Choir manager Vilroy McBean told the news channel singing for the teen was a healing opportunity for everyone. "This was meaningful for her, but also for us, because we needed to get it out, we needed to see her, McBean said. Several of the 18 choir members and two staff members suffered minor injuries. A gift to the choir Many of the Oakwood students of those on the trip lost their belongings in the accident. Clothing chain Old Navy heard about the situation and stepped in to provide clothing. The Aeolians performed at the store to express their gratitude. The Aeolians arrived back in Huntsville Tuesday night. Thank you so much to the Mayor of San Francisco, and @OldNavy for helping the @OakwoodU Aeolians with new clothes. Such a light in tragedy. pic.twitter.com/Jed9VateWD Sazon Goya Lomacang (@Jaylittlelisa) May 5, 2019 A 35-year-old Blount County man was sentenced to prison Wednesday for a hatchet attack on his wife more than four years ago. Anthony Dwayne Amaro was sentenced to 20 years in prison, said Blount County District Attorney Pamela Casey. He pleaded guilty earlier this year to the attempted murder charge. The attack happened in December 2014. Blount County 911 about 12:18 p.m. that Friday received a call, but no one was speaking on the other end. Through the open line, authorities could hear what sounded like a domestic fight. Sheriff's deputies traced the call to a home on Levi Green Road and went there. Once they arrived, they knocked on the door but there was no answer. The deputies checked the door, which was open, and then went inside for a welfare check. They saw a hatchet on the floor, blood on the kitchen floor and a bedroom door that had been broken down, according to court records. A relative told lawmen that the victim, Jessica Amaro, had been taken to Cullman Regional Hospital. She was later taken to UAB Hospital. Detectives were able to interview her, and she told them her husband had hit her in the head with a hatchet. Her husband was later taken into custody. Court records show he and his wifes divorce was finalized in in 2016. Airbus and an array of partners have opened up a new pathway for area high school students, and others with little to no aviation experience, to find employment with the company. Gov. Kay Ivey joined Airbus executive Daryl Taylor Tuesday morning to announce two new training programs, FlightPath9 and Fast Track. "Making a difference can mean many things. One is creating opportunities," said Taylor, vice president and general manager of Airbus' manufacturing facility in Mobile. He offered a "simple summary" of Tuesday's news: "Limited or no aerospace experience equals no problem." Ivey praised Airbus for "putting students on the path to a career" and "putting Alabama on the cutting edge of the aerospace industry." "That's what we're seeing happen here today," she said. For high-school seniors, the first of the newly announced is a taxiway leading them directly into the second. FlightPath9 is a nine-month program of training that students attend after school. Taking place two evenings a week, it adds up to 200 hours of instruction. Upon graduation, those students are then ready to enter Airbus' Fast Track program. Fast Track is a 12- to 15-week experience designed to give new Airbus hires training in the basic skills, knowledge and abilities for a career in aerospace maintenance Taylor said it teaches "a program of global competencies for working on aircraft: torqueing, riveting, gauging, reading blueprints, how to use tools, ergonomics and more." Fast Track is not limited to students from the FlightPath9 program or to candidates from the Mobile area. FlightPath9's initial crop of 25 high school students was introduced on Tuesday. Juniors now, they'll attend FlightPath9 throughout the 2019-2020 academic year. Eleven high schools were represented: Alma Bryant, Baker, B.C. Rain, Citronelle, Mary G. Montgomery, Blount, McGill-Toolen, Saraland, Satsuma, St. Michael and Davidson. The largest contingents came from B.C. Rain, with five students, and McGill-Toolen Catholic High School, with six. Michelle Hurdle, director of economic and community development for Airbus Americas, said the students were chosen through an extended process in which Airbus and the Flight Works education center first contacted school counselors for recommendations on candidates. Other steps included meetings with candidates and their parents, a written application, a drug test, and interviews. Hurdle said McGill-Toolen's share simply represented the energy with which the school and its students pursued the opportunity. "They applied," she said. The connection between McGill-Toolen and St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope also led to that institution being the only Baldwin County School to have a participant. Mobile City Councilman C.J. Small, whose District 3 includes B.C. Rain, said he was thrilled to see the school so well represented. Small is among council members who have been particularly interested in seeing Airbus open up pathways for local students. Rain has an aviation academy offering some special programs, and its proximity to the Brookley Aeroplex also has helped foster connections with Airbus. "This is a great day not just for the state of Alabama but for the children, the youth of the Mobile area," Small said. "I'm happy to know that B.C. Rain has a large presence, because Airbus is in their backyard," he said. One of those B.C. Rain students, Ty'Nora Edwards, said she's eager to go through the program. "It's very exciting," she said of being in the first class. She's not solely focused on working for Airbus, she said: She has the ambition to carry her aerospace-industry training into the U.S. Navy, she said. The first class of FlightPath9 will enter Fast Track in summer 2020, at which point they'll be paid employees of Airbus, Taylor said. But Fast Track isn't limited to students coming through FlightPath9 and it'll have classes between now and then. Hurdle said the first starts June 10 and still has openings, she said. (Job openings can be found at Airbususmanufacturing.applicantpro.com/jobs/.) Hurdle described the first class of FlightPath9 as a pilot program. The number of students and schools involved in future classes may change in the future, depending on Airbus' anticipated needs, she said. She said that the program costs more than $7,000 per student, but enough funding was available this year that it's free to the families of the participating students. Over the next couple of years, a significant increase in the company's Mobile workforce is anticipated. The company plans a gradual increase in production on its established Final Assembly Line for A320-family jets, and it's building a new line for A220 jets. Production of A220s is to begin later this year, with the first one to be delivered in 2020. Taylor said construction of the new Final Assembly Line is "right on track." "It's unbelievable seeing the buildings rise from the ground," he said. FlightPath9 will be run by Flight Works Alabama, the aerospace education center being developed by the state and Airbus. Partners include Airbus, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Cintas, Snap-On Tools, Southwest Alabama Partnership for Training & Employment and the National Coalition of Certification Centers. According to Airbus, ideal candidates for FlightPath9 and Fast Track are people who have an aptitude for working with their hands; have an interest in the aviation industry; are drug-free; are able to read, write and do basic math; and can work with a team. Fast Track candidates not coming out of should be able to show reliability in past jobs. Opposition to tolling the future Interstate 10 Mobile River Bridge and the Wallace Tunnel dominated the public comments during Tuesdays hearing into the massive $2.1 billion project. From local politicians to business owners, the message to the Alabama Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration was clear: A $3 to $6 toll will place enormous burdens on drivers and workers in Mobile and Baldwin counties, and it wont fly with the rest of the public either. Its a huge expense, said Roger Nelson of Daphne, who commutes daily to work to downtown Mobile. It will be passed on. Said Joseph Thompson of Spanish Fort: It seems like were on the cusp of having a bridge paid for disproportionately out of our own expense. Added David Dueitt of Daphne: I dont think we should do that to our children. We shouldnt be charging our children for what we dont have the guts to do. ALDOT officials responded by saying that without the tolls, the project cannot be paid for. And without the project, the I-10 congestion and Wallace Tunnel bottlenecks already the twin sources of miles-long, bumper-to-bumper ordeals on workday afternoons and summer weekends will only worsen. They also believe the tolling plan is equitable, and explain that tolls will be assessed through a segmented plan based on how much of the I-10 Bayway that a motorist travels. Motorists who use the Bayway 20 or more times in a month will get a 15% discount, according to ALDOT. The tolling we looked at splits the costs in an even manner between the local driver and the traveler out-of-state, said ALDOT director John Cooper. Between 50 to 60% are from out-of-state. We think the local people who cross the Bayway every day should pay their fair of that cost, too. Costs are huge The project involves building a 2.5-mile-long, six-lane cable stay bridge that stands 215 feet above the Mobile River. The bridge would be among the tallest in North America, and only five feet shorter than the 220-foot height of the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. In addition, the entire Bayway would be replaced, rather than merely widened as originally projected. The new Bayway would be a 7.5-mile, eight-lane span crossing Mobile Bay, elevated to a height that would be above a 100-year storm surge level. Bayway interchanges would be reconstructed and modified all along the projects length, from Virginia Street in Mobile to U.S. 98/90 in Daphne. And the states 20-year transportation plan calls for eventually extending the project to Alabama 181 in Spanish Fort, which is being reconstructed this year into the states first divergent diamond interchange. The financing is needed simply due to the magnitude of the project, said Cooper. The costs are huge in relation to what we build. Weve never built a project this big. I doubt we ever will again. The goal is to transform I-10 through downtown Mobile and over Mobile Bay into an easy-flowing interstate unhindered by bottlenecks and clogs, even at times of peak traffic counts. During busy summer months, that count can soar past 100,000 vehicles per day. If we had the capability, we would build this bridge in the traditional manner, which would be a design-bid build on the part of ALDOT and the FHWA [Federal Highway Administration], said Cooper. But we dont have that funding. Thus the project would toll the Wallace Tunnel and I-10, and create what are called I-10 Business lanes that take motorists into downtown. The Spanish Fort Causeway, the Cochrane-Africatown Bridge and the Bankhead Tunnel would all remain free to motorists. ALDOT anticipates that those three will receive substantial new traffic as drivers veer away from tolls. The state will develop management plans to ensure access to popular restaurants along the Causeway. There are going to be thousands, particularly after Spring Break and all the way through Labor Day, traveling on the no-toll roads, said Nelson of Daphne. But I wonder how much extra time in traffic that might cost me? Why us? An emerging dispute occurred as attendees protested that Mobile and Baldwin counties were being unfairly assessed a toll while other parts of Alabama, and around the country, receive giant infrastructure projects involving no user fees. Birminghams Interstate 59/20 bridge replacement project repeatedly came up. The more than $700 million, five-year project includes demolishing existing bridges and replacing them with newer elevated structures to better handle the approximately 80,000 vehicles that travel through the city daily. Where are the toll scanners for that bridge? said Kevin Spriggs, who operates a convenience store off I-10 in Daphne. A highway that starts in Jacksonville, Florida, and ends in Los Angeles should be paid for by the national government. A similar sentiment has been expressed by state Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Daphne. In a letter to ALDOT, he cited several examples: The I-59/20 project in Birmingham, the $200 million Pike Road Exchange project in Montgomery and more than $100 million in road projects in the Huntsville area. In all these cases, none of the residents of those areas were asked to have to consider a toll to pay for those projects, Elliott said. Why is coastal Alabama asked to accept a lower state subsidy for projects that arent even comparable in size and scope of impact? Cooper, during comments to the media, said the Birmingham project was a replacement of capacity project, not an expansion of capacity like the I-10 project. He said the projects were different in scope. Its simply saw its useful life expire, Cooper said, referring to the Birmingham project which also removes the I-65 and I-59/20 interchange long referred to as Malfunction Junction. When we are through, while it will be new, it will have the same number of lanes as the old bridge had, he added. Cooper said he anticipated coastal Alabama politicians raising concerns about the tolls. Ive been in this job for over eight years now and Ive learned not to spend a lot of time in terms of searching for fairness in questions Im asked, he said. Everyone believes their money was sent somewhere else. Mobile believes Birmingham got its money or Huntsville believes Mobile got is money We simply dont have enough money. Thats been evident for a number of years. Cooper pointed to the states shouldering the $100 million Baldwin Beach Express project that connects Foley to I-10. There is no good answer on who pays, he said. No one wants to pay. I wish I had the funding to do this. I just dont. Final toll rate Cooper, though, said that ALDOT hasnt set the $3 to $6 toll in stone yet. The state, through May 23, is accepting public comments on the project. A final public hearing will take place from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Mobile Civic Center. The project is described as a public-private venture, meaning that a private concessionaire will oversee its construction and financing. A contract will be awarded in December. Construction is expected to begin next year and last through 2025. Cooper said he hopes the concessionaires bidding on the project see better toll options than the state is projecting. Hopefully more than one of our concessionaires sees this working better than our tolling consultants, he said. They will make their own conclusions on their tolling estimates. Matt Ericksen, ALDOTs Southwest Region Engineer, said that the state, itself, could adjust the tolling and establish a fare by August when the final requests for proposals are sent out to prospective concessionaires. Well be finalizing our funding plan and the finalization of the funding plan will determine the final toll rate, he said. Nelson of Daphne already has his project costs calculated. He said a toll the mid-range point of $4.50 would cost him around $2,160 a year, while a 15% discount drops it to $1,836. Hardly chump change, he said. I worry about these costs being passed on, he said, giving the example of a roofing contractor whose crews are making daily cross-bay trips to project sites. Spriggs said he can anticipate an economic hit to the region if the current toll structure stands, while Lovato of Spanish Fort doubted that low-wage earners will cross the bay to look for jobs that call for daily commutes. Dueitt of Daphne suggested the state look at a property tax increase, which he felt was a fairer way to raise money. We have the lowest property tax in the country, he said. It may hurt the 10 percent or more who own hundreds of acres of property. But I dont want to become Florida. I dont travel in Florida much because I dont like the toll roads. Dueitt added, Some people will avoid traveling. When you avoid traveling, you avoid spending. When people spend, you make tax dollars. Were going to be paying the bulk for this, all of the locals. Kathmandu, Nepal, May 8, 2019: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli is leaving for Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and to the Kingdom of Cambodia from tomorrow (May 9) at the invitation of his counterparts. According to the office of the Prime Minister and council of ministers, Prime Minister Oli will visit Viet Nam first from May 9 to13 and Cambodia from 13-15 May. The Prime Minister Oli will be accompanied by his spouse, Radhika Shakya and some others. It is said that the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold delegation level bilateral talks with his counterparts of Viet Nam and Cambodia. A 19-year-old man reportedly upset over his younger brother being bullied at Selma High School was arrested Tuesday after he made threats of violence toward the school via social media. In the video posted to Facebook early Tuesday afternoon, the suspect was brandishing a rifle, police said. He was taken into custody when he actually showed up at the school, though he was not armed at the time of the arrest. The suspect has been identified as Zaykeese Johnson. Selma Police Chief Spencer Collier said officers were made aware of his threats in real time and quickly descended upon the school about 1:30 p.m. Selma police officers and Dallas County sheriffs deputies responded, and Selmas tactical team was activated. Collier said the response took 100 percent of his available manpower. "Based on the real-time intelligence, the threat analysis was as credible as any possible active shooter that I have dealt with in my career and our response was proportional,'' Collier said. In todays environment, we didnt have the luxury of getting it wrong. School administrators put the school on lockdown and law enforcement officers secured all of the exterior doors. While officers were on the scene, Collier said, Johnson made another social media post acknowledging the police presence at the school. Johnson, according to Collier and Dallas County District Attorney Michael Jackson, was upset at what he perceived as his younger brother being bullied at high school. He threatened to go to the school with an AR-15 and kill those responsible. His mother was already at the school when her older son was taken into custody. Johnson is charged with making a terroristic threat and booked into the Dallas County Jail. The district attorney said he is being held without bond and will make his first court appearance on Thursday. Collier thanked the Dallas County Sheriffs Office and the Alabama Attorney Generals Office for their assistance. I dont know what his intent was, but we were not going to give him any opportunity, to carry out his threats, Collier said. He was upset about his brother but we cant tolerate adults doing that. An Alabama state prison sergeant is under arrest after authorities say she was caught with illegal drugs at work. Lashay Stinson, a 35-year-old officer from Montgomery, was taken into custody Monday at Staton Correctional Facility in Elmore. The arrest was made by the Alabama Department of Corrections Investigations and Intelligence Division. The arrest happened about 10 p.m. when a prison K9 detected and found a small cellophane bag containing a controlled substance during a vehicle inspection. Stinson was charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. ADOC spokeswoman Samantha Banks said Stinson did not immediately resign, but administrative disciplinary actions are being finalized. ADOC has a zero-tolerance policy concerning contraband and continues to evaluate effective tactics to mitigate and eliminate its presence in facilities, including routine searches of facilities, inmates and ADOC staff, Banks said. The Alabama Department of Corrections is committed to eradicating corruption and decreasing the presence of contraband in each of its facilities, said Arnaldo Mercado, director of the Departments Investigations and Intelligence Division. Our division is fully dedicated to leading the Departments efforts to ensure our correctional facilities provide a safe, rehabilitative environment. The public should submit all information that may lead to the arrest of anyone attempting to introduce illegal contraband into state prisons to the ADOC Investigations and Intelligence Division by calling 1-855-WE R ADOC (937-2362) and to law enforcement by visiting the ADOC website athttp://www.doc.alabama.gov/investigationrequest. In retrospect, my two regrets about the whole day are that I was not able to hear what he said, and I didnt think to take a picture whichmight not have been appropriate to do at the time anyway. What initially drew my attention toward them was a silver-haired man yelling. He was walking very quickly across the parking lot headed into the casino and was yelling behind him at who I took to be his wife. She was on the opposite side of the full-sized conversion van he had just bailed out of and fled. I guess there is the outside chance he could have been yelling, Good luck honey, I love you! because as I mentioned, I couldnt hear what he was saying. But he was flailing his arms around in the air above his head and looking toward the sky when he said it. He never stopped walking or slowed down, and he never looked back. Meanwhile, back at the van, I could see that the woman was trying to get into what looked like a wheelchair. I felt obligated to go over and offer to help her, she seemed to be struggling. But she wasnt. She was yelling too. And before I could get to her to ask her if she was okay she shot out from her side of the van in a power chair. She had lit up a cigarette and damn near ran over him before he made it to the automatic doors. The smoke from the cigarette trailed behind her as she went. Later that day, I was buying lottery tickets. A lot of Alabamians include this as part of their routine, and if you will go to Florida midday, midweekyou will find that the retired community keeps a fairly high presence during that timeslot. Which is a positive thing. I personally love to see older people living life to its fullest. It gives hope to all of us in line behind them. What pulled my eye toward these two was the convertible they were in. He was dressed well. Had a touch of sun. And she was taking off the scarf she had been wearing and replacing it with a stylish hat. He smoothed his hair what little there was with his hands after he got out, and then made his way around to her door. He did not rush her. He helped her out and together they made their way in to buy tickets. They were smiling. After they had left two of the clerks told me more about the couple how they come in every week and are always polite to one another and everyone around them. One of them said they have another convertible that it a bit more sporty than the one they were in that day. They drive it when they go to the beach. She said they used to drive around on a motorcycle, until somebody ran into them one day. We watched through the windows as they were leaving. I dont know if we were curious about their secret to happiness, or if we were just jealous. He opened the door for her and waited for her to slowly get in. She took off the hat and put the scarf back on before they drove away. He was still smiling. Maybe he felt lucky. There are two types of people in this world. It is up to us which one we choose to be. Amanda Walker is a contributor with AL.com, The Selma Times Journal, Thomasville Times, West Alabama Watchman, and Alabama Gazette. Contact her at Walkerworld77@msn.com or at https://www.facebook.com/AmandaWalker.Columnist. Al Jazeera reveals how refugees in Bangladesh camps are vulnerable to proposals from single Rohingya men in Malaysia. Coxs Bazar, Bangladesh and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Senwara Begum travelled for two weeks by road and boat, over mountains and along rivers, guided only by a trafficker she feared, before she reached Malaysia to marry a man she had never met. The journey was a blur of borders and landscapes unknown to her and it started in Bangladeshs Rohingya refugee camps, where she was born 23 years earlier and where there is increasing concern about the number of young women and girls being smuggled across borders to marry Rohingya men abroad. The Kutupalong settlement in Coxs Bazar, from where the women are plucked, grew into the worlds largest refugee site in 2017, after a Myanmar military operation described as genocidal by the UN targeted the majority-Muslim minority. The overcrowded camp lacks security for women, who live in shelters composed of simple plastic sheeting on bamboo frames; there is little privacy. According to Rohingya activists and rights groups, dozens of women are now regularly arriving in Malaysia to marry Rohingya men, reviving a form of transnational human trafficking that once moved thousands of Rohingya a year. We travelled by land, occasionally changing cars. We started in the camp and went up to the Indian border, then we headed to Malaysia. There were three of us: another woman and a man the trafficker, Begum told Al Jazeera. I didnt know the trafficker, so I was scared of being harassed by them. Ive heard stories before about traffickers raping women, sexually harassing them and beating people, so I was scared. The marriages and travel are often arranged by Rohingya men, previously smuggled into Malaysia themselves but usually unable to marry local women. Without documentation, they are unable to travel back to Myanmar or the refugee camps in Bangladesh to get married, so send proposals through friends and relatives and make arrangements for marriages that do not involve much consent from the girls. Some of the Rohingya child brides my colleagues and I have spoken with are in slavery-like conditions ... A Rohingya girl told me she did not want to marry young but had no other choice. John Quinley, researcher with Fortify Rights Several Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh described similar journeys taken by relatives and in-laws in the past year that involved road trips that could take months and passed through Myanmars mountainous north. Some of the trafficked women were among the remaining Rohingya families in Myanmar and had to enter Bangladesh, from where the traffickers operate, only to re-enter Myanmar at another point, one less militarised than their native Rakhine State. Fortify Rights recently urged Malaysia to address child marriage, drawing on evidence from 11 interviews with child brides or their relatives in Bangladesh and Malaysia. One recent route documented by Fortify Rights is a complicated land route from Myanmar to Bangladesh, India, and then into Chin State in Myanmar and through the cities of Mandalay and Yangon, eventually crossing the Myanmar-Thailand border and later into Malaysia, said John Quinley, a researcher with Fortify Rights. Rohingya refugees in Coxs Bazar have few options. They cannot work and have no formal access to education. Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh fear forced repatriation or relocation to the island. All these push factors could lead to a real uptick in Rohingya families including girls moving to Malaysia, some for child marriage, said Quinley. Until 2015, a network of human traffickers transported Rohingya to the jungles of southern Thailand, where the refugees were held for ransom before they could be smuggled into Malaysia, where many believed they could find more freedom to work and live than in Bangladesh or Myanmar. That vast network has been dormant since Thailand uncovered 139 mass graves at some of the trafficking camps along the border with Malaysia. Since the 2017 influx into Bangladesh, attempts by traffickers there to smuggle Rohingya by boat have been stopped by the Bangladeshi coastguard. In the past year, however, there has been increased movement of Rohingya, mostly through long land routes from Bangladesh. A Rohingya activist in Thailand, who requested anonymity, told Al Jazeera it is impossible to know exactly how many Rohingya are entering Malaysia, but that there is now a constant flow of people. The activist showed this reporter photos of young women and girls who were arrested by Thai authorities in February, saying that they were caught in a safe house after neighbours reported them. Al Jazeera will not publish these images, in order to protect the refugees identities. Rohingya women at Kutupalong refugee camp in Bangladesh cry during a protest rally to commemorate the first anniversary of Myanmars crackdown [File: Altaf Qadri/The Associated Press] Hamida, 30, lives in the Bangladeshi refugee camps near Myanmar. She said her Malaysia-based son arranged a marriage that brought a 15-year-old girl from Myanmar to Bangladesh, where the girl stayed with the family before travelling. She was scared about the journey but what could we do about it? It had all already been arranged, said Hamida. From Bangladesh, they went to the Indian border and had to walk for many days. Then, they got to Thailand and took buses and cars until they got to Malaysia, she said. It took nearly three months and the girl became so skinny from the journey. Hamidas son had been in Malaysia for several years when he organised the marriage through friends. Begums marriage was arranged through her brother Zakir Hossain, 29. He was already living in Malaysia and now shares a home with his 17-year-old wife who he also brought to the Southeast Asian country from a refugee camp in Bangladesh, as well as Begum and her husband, in a Kuala Lumpur suburb. He said Rohingya men take these measures to get married because they have no other options in Malaysia, where most work undocumented as labourers or in factories. Were scared about the traffickers but we can only leave it with God. We dont want to hire traffickers but we have no options, he said. Chekufa, who has organised hundreds of Rohingya women across the camps into a network of volunteers, blamed economic challenges for the rise in trafficking and child brides. A Rohingya woman cooks in her apartment in Kuala Lumpur [Kaamil Ahmed/Al Jazeera] Many child marriages are happening because the monthly rations are not enough and there is no source of income, she said. Concern over food rations was also reflected in a monthly report on the challenges faced by refugees produced in March by the NGOs Translators without Borders, Internews and BBC Media Action. Refugees complained about smaller rations, saying they were often contaminated with rocks and other materials. Chekufa said these worries have seen some families marry their female relatives off because it meant one less mouth to feed. We have to talk more to the parents to stop these early marriages. Sometimes, we have to promise them: We will try to support you with our own contribution, but please dont marry her before her time. Meanwhile, a combined lack of opportunity and security keeps many teenage girls locked inside their homes, with families saying they fear the attention women attract in the crowded camps. When the person came to us, my only thought was that I would follow what my parents tell me to do. 14-year-old Rohingya refugee Khaleda, 40, said her family received a proposal from a Rohingya man in Malaysia in 2018 to marry her 14-year-old daughter, but have not gone ahead with it because they cannot raise enough money. Though these arranged marriages forgo the traditional dowry paid by the families of brides to men, in many cases they still pay half of the trafficking costs. Khaleda says she would prefer to have her daughter married locally but would have to pay an expensive dowry. The camps offer almost no education, so her daughter sits inside all day, where Khaleda believes it is safest for her. In their dark shelter, the girl says little about the matter. Eventually, shyly, she admits she would prefer to stay with her parents. When the person came to us, my only thought was that I would follow what my parents tell me to do, she said. Begum said she was aware of the risks but also feared a marriage in Bangladesh. In the camp, lives are difficult. Women dont have peaceful marriages. Men get married a few times and the women are not protected, she said, adding that several women have been abandoned by husbands who re-marry while others suffer domestic abuse. She said the idea of living in Malaysia at least offered her the chance to escape the crowded camp she was born into, but she was still concerned. I was worried because I didnt what kind of man my husband would be. I was born in Bangladesh and he was born in Burma, so there couldve been cultural differences. I didnt know whether he would be good or bad, she said. Fortify Rights have documented cases of girls who have been abused by their husbands in Malaysia. Their research, conducted with the Rohingya Womens Development Network run by Rohingya refugee Sharifah Hossain, said many women were denied freedom to move, work or attend school. Some of the Rohingya child brides my colleagues and I at Fortify Rights have spoken with are in slavery-like conditions and in situations of domestic servitude, said Quinley. A Rohingya girl told me she did not want to marry young but had no other choice. Begum, who is six months pregnant, said accessing medical treatment can be difficult because they are not registered by the UNs refugee agency, UNHCR, and Malaysia is not a signatory to the 1951 refugee convention. She has spent much of the past few months sat inside her home, scared to leave after being detained by immigration police who she says later released her after her husband raised money to pay them off. Here, you are not safe, she said. I miss my mother a lot. Last month, Saudi Arabia quietly beheaded 37 people, mostly Shia men from the countrys Eastern Province. They had all been sentenced in what international human rights organisations called grossly unfair trials some for spying for Iran and others for joining a terrorist group. Many of them had alleged they were tortured into signing false confessions. None of the bodies was given back to the families, who were told not to hold funerals. Two of them were pinned to a post for the public to see a measure clearly meant to stir fear within the Shia minority, which makes up between 10 and 15 percent of the Saudi population and is mostly based in the Eastern Province. Although the Saudi authorities have tried to present this case as a national security issue trying the 37 men in a special court that deals with terrorism and portraying them as Iranian agents it has little to do with either terror acts or Iranian influence. Shia disenfranchisement in Saudi Arabia has deep historical roots and only recently has been instrumentalised in the growing regional conflict between Riyadh and Tehran. The only crime of the Shia men who were executed in April and the many more who are still being held in Saudi jails was to demand the end of systemic discrimination and human rights abuses. A history of oppression Tensions between the Shia population of al-Hasa region (roughly todays Eastern Province) and the House of Saud have a long history and go back to the time when Mohammed Ibn Saud, the son of the founder of the dynasty, adopted the teachings of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab in late 18th century and used them to legitimise his rule. As he and his successors sought to expand the territory they controlled eastward under the banner of fighting infidels and deviants, the Shia of al-Hasa resisted. In their raids, Wahhabi fighters would often destroy shrines and places of worship belonging to the Shia and Sufi orders; in 1802, an army led by Mohammeds son Saud even attacked one of the holiest cities for Shia Muslims, Karbala in neighbouring Iraq, looting and destroying shrines, damaging the Hussein mosque, massacring a large part of the civilian population, and leaving a painful mark in Shia collective memory. For a century, al-Hasa would slip in and out of Saudi control, until Abdel Aziz Ibn Saud, the founder of the Saudi kingdom, retook it in 1913, unleashing a campaign of repression against its Shia population who opposed his rule. As he started building the foundations of the Saudi state, Wahhabi attitudes towards the Shia were woven into its institutions. As a result, Shia Muslims to this day remain highly disenfranchised within Saudi society. For example, they are not allowed to hold key posts within the ministries of defence and interior, the National Guard, and the royal court. They face various restrictions on religious worship; permits for building Shia mosques are often denied and, consequently, in places like the city of Dammam, there is only one mosque for the hundreds of thousands of Shia Muslims living there. Processions during Ashoura, the day commemorating the death of Prophet Mohammeds grandson Hussein in the battle of Karbala, were banned until 2005 and today are still curbed in various ways. Most importantly, although the majority of Saudi oil reserves fall within the territory of the Eastern Province, the Shia minority hardly benefits from the countrys massive oil revenues. Since the founding of the Saudi state in 1932, it has suffered systematic socioeconomic marginalisation and dispossession. In addition, Saudi religious authorities vested until recently with almost unrestricted power to police the public have been allowed to spread anti-Shia rhetoric and even insert it into school curricula. As a result, anti-Shia attitudes among the general population are widespread and have led in the past to various attacks on the community. Over the decades of systemic discrimination and disenfranchisement, Shia anger would periodically boil over and result in mass protests, which would always get brutally suppressed by Riyadh. In 1979, the revolutionary upheaval in nearby Iran spurred mass demonstrations in the Shia-majority city of Qatif, which were met with a violent clampdown and executions. In 2011, the Arab Spring also inspired pro-democracy protests in the Eastern Province. The Saudi authorities were quick to put down the unrest, opening fire on demonstrators and arresting many. It is for participating in these protests that a lot of the 37 men were arrested. They, along with a number of other activists calling for the end of religious apartheid and sectarian discrimination, were charged with terrorism. In 2016, Shia leader Nimr al-Nimr, who had supported the protests and had long been critical of the House of Saud, was executed. Geopolitical games Being well aware that the socioeconomic punishment, religious apartheid and marginalisation of the Shia community is fuelling anger among the Shia, Saudi authorities are in constant fear that the community might start an uprising calling for independence. Shia Muslims have also been accused of being Iranian agents and portrayed as the fifth column in the country. Iran, for its part, while pursuing regional hegemony through various Shia proxy groups, has also sought to exploit the unstable situation in the Eastern Province. Thus, in 2016, the Iranian authorities allowed a crowd demonstrating against al-Nimrs execution storm the Saudi Embassy in Tehran and set it on fire. After the April executions, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif was quick to make use of them in his political rhetoric against Saudi Arabia and its relations with the US. But Iran itself is repressing not just its own minorities (including Sunnis and Kurds), but also members of the Shia majority and is hardly a champion of human rights. This is well-known within the Saudi Shia community, which has not welcomed attempts by Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to claim leadership of all Shia worldwide. The Saudi Shia tend to follow their own religious leadership and look up to other Shia clerics such as Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. Thus, to present Shia protests and opposition to the House of Saud as an Iranian plot is not only completely inaccurate, but it also whitewashes a long history of tensions between the community and the Saudi rulers and their Wahhabi backers and the institutionalised sectarian discrimination in the country. The Saudi Shia, like many other Saudi citizens, want their human rights to be respected, to have equal opportunity and access to the massive national wealth. They also want religious freedom and protection against hate crimes. But as the House of Saud grows ever more anxious about its unstable position, it will not only increase the oppression of its people, but also escalate its struggle against Iran. After all, having a foreign enemy boogeyman which can be used to justify any amount of internal repression is the easiest way to control a discontented population. And in this game of regime survival, the Saudi Shia community will likely continue to pay the steepest price. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance. At least 75 dead, including children and women, as ISIL claims blast at Lal Shahbaz Qalandar shrine in Sindh province. In Pakistans deadliest attack in more than two years, a suicide bomber has struck a crowded Sufi shrine, killing at least 75 people including women and children. Hundreds of others were also wounded in Thursdays attack as they performed a ritual at the famous Lal Shahbaz Qalandar shrine in Sehwan in the southern Sindh province. The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group claimed responsibility for the blast via its Amaq propaganda website. Khadim Hussain, deputy inspector-general of Hyderabad police, told Al Jazeera that at least 75 people were killed and more than 200 were injured in the attack. At least 43 men, nine women and 20 children were among the victims. Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder, reporting from the capital Islamabad, said: Hundreds are wounded and have been moved to local hospitals where the facilities arent in the best shape. Sikandar Mandhro, Sindhs health minister, told Al Jazeera: There was a huge crowd gathered there for the [religious ceremony] at the shrine, and there was a very big explosion. The medical facilities at Sehwan are not equipped to deal with a very big emergency, so our first priority right now is to get help to the wounded. Police cordoned off the shrine following the attack [Wali Muhammed/Al Jazeera] The closest hospital to the shrine is around 70km away. Witness Nazakat Ali was praying when the bomb exploded. The explosion happened, and everyone started running, he told Al Jazeera, speaking from a hospital in Sehwan. We were pushed out, there were so many people. I saw blood. I saw people injured and dead bodies. Haider Ali, manager of a nearby hotel, said police has sealed off the shrine. Our security staff heard it, he said. There are a lot of police and ambulances around now. It was complete chaos. Thousands gather at the shrine every Thursday to pray and participate in the Sufi tradition of dhamaal, a form of devotional percussion and dance. The shrine, built in 1356, is by the tomb of Syed Muhammad Usman Marwandi, the Sufi philosopher poet better known as Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, one of Pakistans most venerated saints. Each year, hundreds of thousands gather to celebrate the Urs, his death anniversary. Faisal Edhi, who heads the Edhi Foundation, told Al Jazeera that the place of worship was difficult to access because it is surrounded by narrow streets. Ambulances have all been sent in from Hyderabad, Jamshoro, Dadu, Sukkur and Morho about 20 ambulances are headed in to help transfer patients to hospitals, he said as he was on his way to Sehwan. The Edhi Foundation operates ambulance services, orphanages, womens shelters, dispensaries and morgues in several Pakistani cities. File: The shrine is busy on Thursdays as many come to worship and perform rituals [EPA] A police source in Sindh told Al Jazeera: Police were present, but there were hundreds of people. There is obviously some lapse in security. In November, at least 52 people were killed in a suicide attack on a shrine to Sufi saint Shah Noorani in Balochistan province, in an attack claimed by ISIL. Thursdays blast is the latest in a series of attacks across Pakistan since Monday, when 13 people were killed in a suicide bombing at a rally in the eastern city of Lahore. That attack was followed on Wednesday by a suicide bombing at a government office in the Mohmand tribal area and a suicide attack on government employees in Peshawar, killing six people. Devotees look at the blood-stained floor of the shrine [Yousuf Nagori/ AFP] Two police officers were killed on Tuesday while trying to defuse a bomb in the Balochistan provincial capital of Quetta. Asif Ghafoor, spokesman for Pakistans army, blamed recent attacks on hostile powers. Writing on Twitter, he said that recent terrorist attacks were executed on direction from hostile powers and from sanctuaries in Afghanistan. We shall defend and respond, he said, later adding that the Pakistan-Afghanistan border was closed until further notice due to security reasons. Hamid Karzai, Afghanistans former president, took to Twitter to condemn the attack, calling the victims innocent brotherly people of Pakistan. Thursdays attack was the deadliest in Pakistan since December 2014, when fighters assaulted a school in Peshawar, killing 154 people, mostly schoolchildren. An injured Pakistani blast victim talks on mobile phone at a local hospital after the explosion [AFP] Additional reporting by Alia Chughtai and Asad Hashim Day after deadly ISIL attack, more than 100 gather to wash blood-soaked floors of the shrine and continue ritual. Islamabad and Karachi Sufi devotees have returned to their shrine in Pakistans southern Sindh province less than a day after it was targeted in a suicide attack, in defiance of ISIL which claimed the bombing. Thursdays blast , which killed at least 88 people and wounded hundreds as they performed a ritual, was the worst attack on Pakistani soil since a 2014 school attack in the northwestern city of Peshawar, which killed at least 154, mostly children. On Friday evening, about 150 residents of the southern town of Sehwan returned to the shrine of Syed Muhammad Usman Marwandi, better known as Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, a revered 13th-century Sufi philosopher and poet who is venerated by millions across South Asia. The Sehwan shrine came under attack during a ritual ceremony [Wali Muhammed/Al Jazeera] Caretakers washed and cleaned the white marble floors, which were streaked with blood and scattered debris, as others prepared for the evening ritual of the dhamaal a form of devotional percussion and dance. As the drums began, the faithful raised their arms and began the ritual, moving rhythmically to the quickening beat. This is Lal Shahbaz Qalandar , any terrorist, any number of terrorist attacks will not scare us. The dhamaal will continue, and must continue, said Ali Otho, a worshipper. This is Lal Qalandar Shahbaz, any terrorist, any number of terrorist attacks will not scare us. The dhamaal will continue, and must continue Ali Otho , worshipper Devotees said they would not allow anyone, attackers nor police seeking to secure the location, to stop them from praying at the grave of their patron saint. This is no place for the police, said Haja Shah, one of the shrines caretakers, with tears in his eyes. This is our place. Security forces, meanwhile, launched a series of raids following the attack, killing at least 100 people , all identified as terrorists. Al Jazeera was unable to independently verify that figure, which was cited in a military in a statement on Friday. The raids followed the closure of Pakistans border with Afghanistan , where the government says Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other armed groups enjoy safe havens. On Friday, Pakistan handed Afghanistan a list with the names of 76 terrorists, demanding immediate action be taken against them. The terrorists in hiding were planning, directing and supporting fighters across the border, the statement explained. In a call to the commander of the US-led NATO force in Afghanistan, General John Nicholson, Pakistani army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa hinted at the possibility of pursuing operations within Afghan territory if action was not taken. Such terrorist activities and inaction against them are testing our current policy of cross-border restraint, Bajwa said , according to a statement. Wave of attacks Armed groups such as the Pakistani Taliban and others have often targeted shrines for not conforming to their strict, literalist interpretation of Islam . In November, ISIL, or the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant group, claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a shrine in a Balochistan town, killing at least 52 people. Thursdays attack was the latest in a wave of violence this week that has claimed more than 100 lives. On Monday, at least 13 people were killed when a suicide attacker targeted police at a protest in Lahore , the countrys second-largest city. On Tuesday, two police officers were killed while trying to defuse a bomb in the southwestern city of Quetta. On Wednesday, two suicide attacks in the northwestern city of Peshawar and the Mohmand tribal area claimed at least six lives. On Thursday, in addition to the 88 killed at the shrine, at least seven security forces personnel were killed in two separate attacks in Dera Ismail Khan and Awaran. Roots of violence Much of that violence, with the exception of Thursdays attack on the Sufi minority, was claimed by the Pakistan Talibans Jamaat-ur-Ahrar faction, which has worked with ISIL, also known as ISIS, in the past but remains separate from it. Pakistan has underestimated the potential for ISIL here, Zahid Hussain, a veteran Pakistan journalist and security analyst, told Al Jazeera. Authorities always said that ISIL could not create an organisation here, but there are already organisations operating in Pakistan that agree with their ideology, like the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and others. Sufis resumed their celebrations a day after the attack [Wali Muhammed/Al Jazeera] Pakistan has repeatedly blamed Afghanistan for giving safe haven to fighters on its side of the border, and vice versa. However, analysts say that trading blame is proving counterproductive. The real issue is that the attacks are happening here. The networks are here, the facilitators are here it is a flawed view that all of these attackers are coming from Afghanistan, said Hussain. The people are here. Mosharraf Zaidi, former adviser to Pakistans foreign ministry, told Al Jazeera: It doesnt help anybody to fixate on the problem of Afghanistan as being the only problem that we face. While there are groups that use safe havens in Afghanistan, the core of problem Pakistan faces today is inside Pakistan. The network of terrorists exists in this country, he explained, and the solution is also inside Pakistan. Hussain said while a Pakistani military operation has succeeded in dislodging the Pakistani Taliban from its headquarters, the groups networks with other armed groups including those targeting minorities and Indian security forces in Kashmir remain intact. This is not unexpected because half-hearted measures always lead to these situations, he said. The real issue was the network of militants in the heartland, in the main cities. They were intact, and even though we have been hearing reports of thousands arrested what happens to them? Hussains views were echoed by Ijaz Khan, a professor at Peshawar University and security analyst. What happened when [the military operation] started: terrorists of different organisations felt the pressure and some of their safe havens were destroyed, he told Al Jazeera. Sounding a warning of further attacks, he said: They were dislocated, but not finished. Now, they have regrouped themselves. With additional reporting by Wali Muhammed in Sehwan Held in protective custody since her acquittal after eight years on death row, Bibi leaves citing threats to her life. Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy by Pakistans Supreme Court last year in a case that has become emblematic of fair trial concerns in such cases, has been granted asylum in Canada, her lawyer says. Bibi, 53, flew out of Pakistan after being held for months in protective custody by Pakistani authorities following her acquittal, Saif-ul-Malook told Al Jazeera by telephone on Wednesday. She joins her husband and two daughters, Malook said. She has gone to Canada, she will live there now as she has been granted asylum by them, he said. Canadian authorities did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the case. Bibi spent eight years on death row after her arrest in the central village of Ithan Wali after an argument with two Muslim women who refused to drink water from the same vessel as her, due to her religion. The women and a local cleric accused Bibi of having insulted Islams Prophet Muhammad during the altercation, a charge that she has consistently denied. Blasphemy is a sensitive subject in Pakistan, where the countrys strict laws prescribe a mandatory death penalty for some forms of the crime. Increasingly, blasphemy allegations have led to murders and mob lynchings, with at least 74 people killed in such violence since 1990, according to an Al Jazeera tally. Among those killed were Salman Taseer, then a provincial governor, and Shahbaz Bhatti, then a federal minister, in 2010. Both officials had stood up for Bibi when she was first accused of blasphemy. Incendiary issue In a landmark judgment acquitting Bibi, the Supreme Court noted in October that there were glaring and stark contradictions in the prosecutions case against Bibi. [There is] the irresistible and unfortunate impression that all those concerned in the case with providing evidence and conducting investigation had taken upon themselves not to speak the truth of at least not to divulge the whole truth, wrote Justice Asif Khosa, now Pakistans Supreme Court Chief Justice, in the verdict. Bibi had been convicted and sentenced to death by a trial court in November 2010, with the Lahore High Court upholding her conviction on appeal four years later. Rights groups had long insisted there were numerous fair trial concerns in her case, as well as in blasphemy prosecutions generally. The Supreme Court verdict prompted days of violent protests by the far-right Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a hardline religious group with widespread support that has long pushed for those accused of blasphemy to be executed or murdered extrajudicially. Led by firebrand cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi, the TLP blocked roads and major intersections across the country following Bibis acquittal in October. Rizvi was arrested in November and charged with treason for leading the protests. Afzal Qadri, the cofounder of the TLP, released a statement last week apologising for the protests and promising not to engage in further political activity. Rizvi, and scores of other TLP activists, remain in police custody, charged with hate speech and inciting violence. Days after the verdict was announced, Bibis lawyer Malook sought refuge in the Netherlands, citing threats to his life for having represented her. In February, Bibi told the Associated Press news agency through an intermediary that she was being held by Pakistani authorities in indefinite protective custody and that they would not let her leave the country. On Tuesday, the long running issue of her departure from the country was resolved, her lawyer says, and Bibi is now safely in Canada and reunited with her family. Asad Hashim is Al Jazeeras digital correspondent in Pakistan. He tweets @AsadHashim. Security officials say the attack targeted the office of the non-profit organisation in the Shahr-e-Naw area. The Taliban has attacked the offices of an international non-government organisation (NGO) in Kabul, the capital city of Afghanistan, setting off a huge explosion. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the death toll had risen to nine, including five members of the Afghan security forces, a guard at Counterpoint and three civilians. Nusrat Rahimi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior Affairs, said the target of the attack was Counterpart International, an NGO headquartered in the United States that has been operating in Afghanistan since 2005. The NGOs office is located near the attorney generals office in the Shahr-e-Naw area in Kabul. 190503105048783 Intermittent gunshots and explosions were heard as special forces, backed by advisers from foreign forces, surrounded the site and engaged the attackers in a standoff. Authorities cordoned off the area as they sent in ambulances and police trucks. Rahimi said at least 80 employees of the NGO were rescued and security forces were clearing other buildings in the area. Two floors of the building have been cleared and, to avoid civilian casualties, the operation is being undertaken with caution, Rahimi said. Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said the group attacked the NGO because it was involved in harmful Western activities in Afghanistan. He did not elaborate on what those activities were. The blast came only two weeks after armed men targeted the communications ministry in central Kabul, killing at least seven people. That attack was claimed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS). Meanwhile, representatives of the US and Taliban continue their negotiations in Qatar aimed at bringing an end to the nearly 18-year-long conflict. The talks follow a peace summit in Kabul last week where President Ashraf Ghani offered a ceasefire from the first day of Ramadan, which was refused by the Taliban. Last year, the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire at the end of Ramadan after Ghani declared a unilateral truce for eight days earlier in the month. It was first formal nationwide ceasefire since the US-led invasion of 2001 and saw unprecedented scenes of reconciliation and jubilation across the country. Protests against Kurdish rule widen in Deir Az Zor as Arabs complain of discrimination and forced conscription. Arab inhabitants of Syrias Deir Az Zor have begun the third week of protests against Kurdish rule, according to residents and tribal figures. The protests, which started in several towns and villages from Busayrah to Shuhail, on Wednesday spread to the east of the Euphrates River where most of the oilfields are located. The protesters have been complaining of lack of basic services and discrimination against them in local administrations run by Kurdish officials. The forcible conscription of youths into the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the fate of thousands imprisoned in their jails have been major bones of contention, according to residents and tribal figures. Their repressive rule has turned many against them, said Abdul Latif al-Okaidat, a tribal leader. No to the theft of our oil, chanted demonstrators in the town of Greinej, part of the Arab-Sunni tribal heartland seized more than a year ago by the United States-backed SDF and spearheaded by the Kurdish YPG armed group. The YPG has long sold crude oil to the Syrian government of President Bashar al-Assad, with whom it maintains close economic ties and exports wheat and other commodities through several crossings between their territory. The stepping up of oil sales to alleviate a fuel crunch facing Damascus has infuriated the local Arab protesters, with many placards saying they were being robbed of their wealth. We are deprived of everything while the Kurds are selling our oil to help the regime and enriching themselves, said Abdullah Issa, a protester from al Tayaneh town. The protests took a violent turn when angry mobs took to the streets and disrupted the routes of convoys of trucks loaded with oil from nearby fields that cross into government-held areas. In some villages, SDF fired at angry protesters. Mazloum Kobani, the SDF commander-in-chief, said in remarks that seem to refer to the unrest that his group was the only institution that had steered away from any form of racism. The protests persisted after YPG commanders failed to make significant concessions to tribal figures who gathered at their invitation last Friday in the city of Ain Issa, two attendees said. Kurdish control Syrias most productive fields are now in Kurdish hands since the YPG extended control over large swaths of northeastern Syria after capturing the city of Raqqa from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) in late 2017. The Syrian government controls areas west of the Euphrates River that are less endowed with oil resources. 150529144229467 Diplomats say Washington has in recent weeks tightened efforts to clamp down on small shipments of oil by smuggler networks that are exported across the Euphrates to traders working on behalf of the Syrian government. The SDF has not publicly commented on the most serious challenge so far to its rule over tens of thousands of Arabs. The YPG has sought to redress decades of repression against minority Kurds under Syrias Arab Baath Party. Changing lives, the new sewage treatment plant is making a difference for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. The largest sewage treatment facility ever constructed at a refugee settlement is providing a safer and cleaner environment for displaced Rohingya. Close to a million of them fled violence in Myanmar in 2017 and are now living in camps in Bangladesh. And a lack of sanitation has been a major concern. Al Jazeeras Sara Khairat reports. In the war in which hundreds of thousands have died, some Syrians made a miraculous escape and survived. Two-year-old Khadija is one of them. On Thursday at 3am, she was asleep next to her parents, just like every other night, when a missile hit their home adjacent to their poultry farm in Kansafrah village in the countryside of northwest Idlib province. The explosion killed both her parents and her siblings. Local rescue workers from the Syrian Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, rushed to the house when they heard the blast and found Khadija coated in dust with her face covered in blood. As we got to the site we heard a babys voice, said Osama Haj Hussain, a White Helmet rescuer. We found a baby girl. Her body was not hurt but the face was bleeding. I took her to the ambulance. The next morning, Hasan Mohammad Hamdan, Khadijas paternal uncle, was called to the hospital to take her under his guardianship. She used to talk and call me uncle, she loved to play and jump all the time, but now she doesnt speak a word, he told Al Jazeera. She cries and shakes every time she hears the sound of planes in the sky. Increased shelling Khadijas village was one of the many that came under a ferocious attack that night. The government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and its Russian allies have been bombing the province for several weeks but last Thursday the shelling intensified, according to observers. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitor, at least 69 civilians have been killed in the recent artillery fire and air attacks. Sporadic attacks have continued all year in Idlib despite Russia and Turkeys agreement to continue a ceasefire between rebels that control Idlib and government forces, which was signed in September last year in Sochi. A charity that supports doctors in rebel-held areas, the Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations, UOSSM, warned of an apocalypse in Syria if the attacks were allowed to continue. It said more than 150,000 Syrians in Idlib had been displaced in the past week. Dr Hussam al-Fakir, chairman of UOSSM International, said the United Nations must take proactive steps to de-escalate the situation in Idlib. Right now, hundreds of thousands of people are being pushed into smaller and smaller areas and will inevitably be slaughtered, he said. We know how this story plays out the bombing of schools and hospitals, indiscriminate barrel-bomb attacks, chemical weapon attacks, and scores of children brutally disfigured and killed. Very worried According to the Observatory, Syrian forces dropped 13 barrel bombs while the Russians carried out 33 air attacks in the de-escalation zone. 190502161207942 Idlib became the last stop for the rebels, their families, and other anti-Assad activists and civilians, after Russia mediated several reconciliation deals elsewhere as the government recaptured most of the country. Most of those who took refuge in Idlib have nowhere else to go. Abdul Hamza, a father of two girls, moved to Idlib city from Aleppo in 2016. He said the fear of a full-fledged offensive was again looming over the province. I am very worried, he said. The regime will attack us in a few days, I think. Hamza said to mitigate the effect of shelling he plans on tucking his girls in a corner in the lavatory when the attacks begin. If it gets worse, he said, he will pay smugglers to bring his family to Turkey. However, Hamza said he feels betrayed by Turkey and raged at what he called its reluctance to protect Idlib. Turkey is making deals with Russia over our dead bodies. They are silent while the regime and Russia are killing us, he said. Turkeys strategy Turkey has supported a conglomeration of anti-Assad rebels throughout the eight-year Syrian war. Opposition activists fear as the war draws to a close, Ankara is more concerned about containing Kurdish militias on its borders that it sees as terrorists rather than confronting Russia or the Syrian government. Nicholas A Heras, a fellow at the Center for a New American Security, said Turkeys inaction is strategic. Turkey is calculating that the Russian and Assad campaign can actually play to its advantage by knocking the rebels down to size, and making them even more dependent on Turkey to prevent a ground invasion of Idlib, Heras told Al Jazeera. Turkey has difficulties keeping the Syrian rebels in Idlib in line, and the spectre of a full-blown Assad regime and Russian military campaign on Idlib could achieve that. Idlib is largely under the control of former al-Qaeda affiliate Hayet Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group that has consistently refused to listen to Turkey and has taken over the province from the rebels backed by Ankara. Aaron Stein, director of the Middle East programme at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, said Turkey had limited clout with both the Russians and the rebels, and could, therefore, do little even if it tried. Turkey cant really stop Russia or the regime, it can delay, he said. In doing so, Ankara is trying to negotiate the best deal on behalf of its patrons in Idlib, while also ensuring that its own interests are taken into account. Stein said Turkeys failure to contain HTS had given Russia and the Syrian government an excuse to bomb Idlib. To date, Ankara has not been able to get the opposition to do everything it wants, particularly as it pertains to the Idlib agreement that required Ankara to create a buffer zone and to cede control of highways in Idlib to regime control, he said. To date, this has not happened, so the regime is using this to its advantage to push for a piecemeal grab of territory. HTS dominance Under the Sochi agreement, Turkey was expected to eliminate HTS from the ground. While it succeeded in luring some of its members to join rebel factions it supports, the hard line armed group has maintained its military superiority and kept control of Idlib, including the strategic M4 and M5 highways. These highways link cities under government control to each other and Turkey and are crucial to Syrias economic recovery. Abdul Hamza said the Syrian governments real aim is to discourage civilians such as him through indiscriminate killings and to instil enough fear that the people give in and compromise with the Assad administration. The regime is trying to scare us to give in to his rule and compromise with him, he said. That is why it is destroying our hospitals and schools. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years, the newspaper says. US President Donald Trumps businesses lost more than $1bn from 1985 to 1994, according to the New York Times, which said it obtained printouts from the presidents official Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax transcripts in the United States. The newspaper on Tuesday said Trump, who was elected in 2016, posted losses in excess of $250m in both 1990 and 1991, which appeared to be more than double any other individual US taxpayer, based on IRS data. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years, the Times said. There was no immediate comment from the White House. The Republican president, a real estate magnate who turned over the running of his businesses to his sons after his election, touted his business acumen and negotiating skills on the campaign trail. He broke with a decades-old precedent by refusing to release his tax returns as a presidential candidate or since being elected, saying he could not do so while his taxes were being audited. The House Ways and Means Committee has asked the IRS to provide Trumps personal and business returns for 2013 through 2018. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday refused to do so, saying the panels request lacks a legitimate legislative purpose. Mnuchins move, which had been expected, is likely to set a legal battle into motion. The main options available to Democrats are to subpoena the IRS for the returns or to file a lawsuit. Tensions had previously flared between the two when Sarraj accused France of supporting renegade General Khalifa Haftar. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a ceasefire in the month-long battle for Libyas capital Tripoli after meeting with Fayez al-Sarraj, the prime minister of the countrys internationally recognised government. Noting that there is no military solution to the Libyan conflict the proposal was put forward to delimit a ceasefire line, under international supervision, Macrons office said in a statement on Wednesday, backing a UN peace plan and elections. The two leaders agreed on the importance of extending and deepening the dialogue with all stakeholders in Libya, including in the east, south and west of the country, and with civil society, the statement added. France has said it views eastern-based military commander Khalifa Haftar, who mounted the Tripoli offensive on April 4 under the banner of combatting terrorism, as a key player in rebuilding Libya after years of strife. It did not specify where any ceasefire line might be drawn, now that Haftars forces have reached the southern outskirts of the capital. Haftar and his self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) have struggled to maintain momentum in the advance, faced with a counteroffensive by troops aligned with Serrajs Government of National Accord (GNA). 190429115639893 The fighting has killed at least 433 people and wounded 2,110 while displacing more than 55,000 others, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. Hopes for a halt in the fighting to mark the onset of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan were dashed this week after Haftar urged his troops to inflict an even harder lesson on forces loyal to the internationally recognised government. And the GNA has previously rejected any ceasefire unless Haftar pulls his troops back to the areas they held before the April 4, in the south and east of the country. Overnight Tuesday, there was shelling on a camp of pro-Serraj fighters, witnesses said. Shrapnel struck the roof of a nearby migrants detention centre in the eastern suburb of Tajoura. Though nobody was wounded at the centre, frightened migrants, who had come mainly from sub-Saharan African nations hoping to reach Europe by sea, pleaded for rescue. We have almost lost hope in our life, one migrant at the centre told Reuters News Agency, declining to give his name. War here is too much. Please, we need help. Pro-government forces have intensified their bombardment of rebel-held areas in northwest Syria in recent days. Forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad have pushed their way into a northwest rebel-held enclave, clashing with armed groups and capturing a strategically located village in Hama province, widening an offensive that had previously involved mainly aerial bombings and shelling. The pro-government Central Military Media (CMM) said on Wednesday that the troops entered Kfar Nabudah, a rebel-held village on the southwestern edge of the enclave, igniting heavy clashes with armed fighters. CMM said government forces seized control of the area after hours of fighting and proceeded to clear the area of landmines. 190507123020922 The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed the ground operation, which was launched with close air support. It also said government forces captured the village after clashes that killed at least nine soldiers and 18 rebels. There was no report of casualties in the pro-government media. Rebel groups said they targeted government vehicles and detonated a car bomb. Capturing Kfar Nabudah severs the link between the southern edge of the rebel-held enclave in Hama province with its western and eastern flanks, as well farther to the north. Activist-operated media group Enab Baladi called Kfar Nabudah the first line of defence of Idlib. Rebel spokesman Nabji al-Mustafa confirmed the government seized the village, adding his fighters remained on its edge. He said the fighting has a caused a new wave of displacement from rebel-held Khan Sheikhoun town, which sits on the highway linking Aleppo and Damascus and is less than 15km to the east of Kfar Nabudah. Khan Sheikhoun has come under increased fire after Kfar Nabudah was captured, al-Mustafa said. The latest wave of violence, which began on April 30, has raised fears the government may launch a wider offensive to retake the greater rebel-held area, home to around three million people, many of whom are internally displaced. Already, over 150,000 have been displaced within the enclave, according to the UN, mostly civilians escaping front lines. They entered Kfar Nabuda but the clashes continue with government forces at the edge, al-Mustafa said. Idlib province is held by an array of rebel groups, including Hayet Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a coalition of fighters including those formerly affiliated with al-Qaeda. Along with sharing a border with Turkey, Idlib is adjacent to Latakia province, a Syrian government stronghold that is home to the biggest military airbase of its major ally, Russia. 190508113554875 In recent days, government forces have intensified their bombardment of the rebel-held areas in northwestern Syria, as a ceasefire appears to have all but collapsed. Government forces seized a village and a strategic hill on Monday. The government appears to be trying to secure a major highway that cuts through the rebel-held enclave. The highway was to reopen before the end of 2018 following the ceasefire agreement, but it remains closed. The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday strongly condemned attacks on health facilities in the region. In just nine days since April 29, WHO said 12 health structures have been hit. On May 5 alone, two major hospitals and another facility were hit, killing three health workers, the UN agency said. WHO said there are now no functioning hospitals in northern Hama, affecting close to 300,000, and emergency care is being provided by only three surgical units supported by the UN agency. Climate change appears in poll manifestos of leading parties for the first time, but experts say its not enough. New Delhi, India It was the winter of 2017 when Utsav, then only two years old, was first diagnosed with asthma, a respiratory disease that affects the lungs. Since then, he has been forced to cover his nose or wear a mask to protect himself from the dust and smog, as Indias capital continues to battle a pollution crisis. On the days that he feels worse, Utsav has to use the nebuliser with the help of his parents. Whenever the air quality depletes, Utsavs condition worsens. He is quite young but he starts asking for medicines and nebuliser whenever he starts feeling uneasy, said his mother Priya as they waited to see the doctor in a state-run hospital specialising in chest ailments in North Delhi. Utsavs parents say they are unable to afford quality masks for him [Nadim Asrar/Al Jazeera] We cannot even afford good quality masks, said the 33-year-old mother, an accountant in a local consultancy firm. Her husband Kamal, also 33, is a data entry operator with a food company. During the winter months of November and December, when air quality is at its worst in New Delhi, the average poisonous atmospheric particulate matter that has a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometer (or PM2.5), often hits the emergency figure of nearly 440, more than 12 times the US governments recommended limit. The citys average PM2.5 level is around 114. Children worst affected The spike in New Delhis air pollution during the end of the year is attributed not only to vehicular emission or industrial dust but also to the burning of straw by farmers in the neighbouring states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh after the harvest season. The Hindu festival of Diwali, which falls around November, also contributes significantly to the citys pollution as millions of people set off firecrackers filled with harmful chemicals, forcing Indias Supreme Court to regulate the sale of firecrackers. Delhi-based pulmonologist Dr AK Singh told Al Jazeera that there is a direct correlation between toxic air and ailments including respiratory issues, high blood pressure, heart diseases and even cancer. India has one of the highest child mortality rates in the world due to toxic air as well as polluted water. Children are the worst affected because they respire more air as they are involved in physical activities. The coming generation is going to be seriously affected since their lung development is not happening in a healthy manner, he said. Earlier this year, Sandhya Kamal, a mother of two, finally realised she would not be able to live in a polluted New Delhi any more and decided to move to Chandigarh, 250km north of Indias capital. Delhis pollution had gotten on our nerves. Living in the city became a recurring nightmare, her husband Saras Kamal, who quit his job as a designer with a leading English newspaper, told Al Jazeera from Chandigarh. The Kamals are among a growing community of pollution refugees, as The Washington Post put it last year, referring to a growing trend among a section of New Delhi residents seeking a better life in less polluted parts of India. New Delhis iconic India Gate covered with thick smog [Amarjeet Singh/Al Jazeera] Fatal air India, the worlds fastest growing economy, is currently holding its seven-phase general elections. Over 900 million eligible voters are expected to cast their votes in the elections, which end on May 19. While a number of national issues, including issues of national security and economy, have been in the headlines throughout the ongoing elections, there is barely any discussion over the countrys pollution crisis in the campaigns. 190305151923982 Indias toxic air claimed 1.24 million lives in 2017 12.5 percent of total deaths recorded that year in the country, according to a study published in Lancet Planetary Health. The study said more Indians died due to pollution than cancer, tuberculosis, AIDS and diabetes put together. The 2018 Global Environmental Performance Index placed India at 177 out of 180 countries, down more than 20 spots from 155 in 2014. In March this year, another study showed that India is home to 15 of the worlds 20 most polluted cities. All four satellite cities surrounding New Delhi Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and Noida figured in the top six while the national capital itself, home to nearly 30 million people, was placed at 11 out of 20. 180502095826300 Yet, Indian politicians seeking a place in Indias 543-member lower house of parliament hardly ever talk about the deadly pollution around them in their campaign speeches. Pollution is not an issue for political parties because these leaders are not affected by it. The prime ministers residence is spread across hectares and is full of greenery. What problem is he facing due to air pollution? asked Priya, who goes by her first name. One of the many rubbish dumps across New Delhi [Amarjeet Singh/Al Jazeera] No consensus on climate issues Environment activists and scholars say they have seen a recent change in the attitude of the political parties or the government with regards to pollution. 190410185739389 In January, India launched a National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) aimed at cutting pollution in Indias 102 worst affected cities by 20 to 30 percent by the year 2024. But the NCAP has been criticised by environmentalists, who say it lacks focus and ambition. According to an article in Down to Earth, a New Delhi-based environment magazine, 2019 is the first time climate change has made it to poll manifestos of both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress. The BJP has vowed to focus on the 102 most polluted cities and to establish Indias renewable energy capacity of 175 gigawatts by 2022. Its rival Congress has recognised air pollution as a national public health emergency and made a promise to strengthen the NCAP. India needs to 1. Repair & Restore our water bodies. 2. Regenerate & Afforest wasteland & degraded land. We will employ lakhs of rural youth in our gram sabhas to improve the environment. Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 30, 2019 Polash Mukherjee, who works with Centre for Science and Environment (CSE, which publishes Down to Earth), says the bottleneck is that the political parties, governments and bureaucrats often dont agree on the nature of the crisis. Environmentalist Polash Mukherjee says there is little consensus among political parties on tackling pollution [Amarjeet Singh/Al Jazeera] The biggest challenge is gaining a political consensus on recognising the problem and that is something that has eluded our country so far, he told Al Jazeera. While Mukherjee credits the incumbent BJP government for making sanitation and cleanliness electoral agenda, he thinks its not enough. Of course, implementation is still a long way to go. There are so many areas where measures have been taken only on paper, he said, citing solid waste management as an example. Eighty percent of Indias local municipal bodies are not doing it. The World Bank calculates that Indias losses from pollution-related healthcare expenditure stands at $221bn every year, that is 8.5 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP). This is more than the government spends on healthcare every year. Dr Singh points out that ordinary citizens are the worst victims of the pollution caused by unregulated urbanisation and increasing industrialisation. The kind of burden that is going to fall on us due to diseases related to air pollution is going to be enormous in terms of cost, he said. A country with a majority of unhealthy citizens will not be able to flourish. Hundreds of indigenous people from across Guatemala walk 200km to demand an end to corruption and rights violations. Guatemala City Hundreds of indigenous people from across Guatemala ended a week-long march on Wednesday against rights violations and what they called the corruption plaguing the countrys upcoming election. We are marching for justice and to defend our rights, Fidelia Ramirez, a member of the Achi Maya council of Ancestral Authorities, told Al Jazeera. The march was organised by traditional indigenous authorities from various indigenous peoples, along with organisations from civil society, including the Committee for Campesino Unity, church groups, students, and feminist groups. It began on May 1 in Quetzaltenango, Guatemalas second-largest city. Participants walked the nearly 200km to Guatemala City, drawing attention to the alleged corruption gripping the countrys political system. Those who have entered into government have entered into a pact with militaries, the business community, and drug traffickers to only trying to remain in power, Daniel Pascual, the coordinator of the Committee for Campesino Unity, told Al Jazeera. 190306220652220 Organisers also rejected a number of proposals currently making their way through Congress , including a reform the national non-governmental law, the National Reconciliation law, which would release former soldiers convicted of war crimes, a prison reform, which would also release war criminals and a law that would recognise a family as the marriage between a man and woman and criminalise abortions. They are only implementing laws that benefit themselves, Pascual said. They continue to take the wealth out of our country. Not confident in the election On Monday, the UN-backed International Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG), which the current government has refused to renew its mandate, said that Guatemalan prosecutors launched an investigation into a presidential candidate six members of Congress and a cabinet minister for suspected corruption. The presidential candidate, Estuardo Galdamez of the National Convergence Front (FCN), rejected the allegations. 190402151350957 Last month, presidential candidate Mario Estrada of the right-wing National Change Union party was arrested by agents of the US Drug Enforcement Administration for conspiracy to traffic drugs to the United States. The candidate is alleged to have requested money and weapons from the Mexican Sinaloa Cartel in exchange for free passage in Guatemala. CICIG probes have led to the prosecution and removal of many government officials, including former President Otto Perez Molina, who resigned in 2015. We are not confident in the election, said Ramirez at Wednesdays march, referring to the June 16 general election. We do not want any more corruption in Congress. If one corrupted official remains, then we are obliged to return to the streets. Respecting rights Indigenous groups also marched to demand the rights of native people. They argue that the government has only worked to dispossess them from their territories in the name of development. We have a right to protect the environment, Ramirez said. Officials were not immediately available for comment. Indigenous groups also demanded that the government respect their human rights [Jeff Abbott/Al Jazeera] Organisers say that more than 560 orders for arrest were issued against environmental and human rights defenders in 2018 alone. We are showing the world what the reality is in our country, said Esperanza Puluc, a Maya Kaqchikel woman from San Juan Sacatepequez. We are the most excluded in our country, she told Al Jazeera. We are struggling for a more inclusive country, where we are all represented. A year after US pullout from agreement, Iran says it is no longer committed to parts of the deal with world powers. Iran will resume high-level enrichment of uranium if world powers do not keep their promises under a 2015 nuclear agreement, President Hassan Rouhani said. In a speech broadcast on national television on Wednesday, Rouhani said the remaining signatories the United Kingdom, France, Germany, China and Russia had 60 days to implement their promises to protect Irans oil and banking sectors from US sanctions. Rouhani said Iran wanted to negotiate new terms with remaining partners in the deal, but acknowledged the situation was dire. We felt that the nuclear deal needs a surgery and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective, Rouhani said. This surgery is for saving the deal, not destroying it. The move comes a year after United States President Donald Trump withdrew his country from the landmark nuclear accord. Since then, the US has restored crippling economic sanctions on Iran, even as Tehran continued to abide by the deal, according to United Nations inspectors. Rouhani announced Iran would roll back some of its commitments under the 2015 nuclear agreement, saying it would keep excess enriched uranium, instead of selling it as called for under the deal. Starting today, Iran does not keep its enriched uranium and produced heavy water limited. The EU/E3+2 will face Iran's further actions if they can not fulfill their obligations within the next 60 days and secure Iran's interests. Win-Win conditions will be accepted. Hassan Rouhani (@HassanRouhani) May 8, 2019 If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal, Rouhani said. However, Rouhani warned of a strong reaction if European leaders instead sought to impose more sanctions on Iran via the UN Security Council. He did not elaborate. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said his country would wait and see Tehrans next move. I think it was intentionally ambiguous, Pompeo said of Irans announcement. Well have to wait and see what Irans actions actually are before deciding on a US response. Theyve made a number of statements about actions they threatened to do in order to get the world to jump, said Pompeo. The United States also accused Iran of engaging in nuclear blackmail after Tehran announced it would no longer abide by the limits of its 2015 nuclear deal. America is never going to be held hostage to the Iranian regimes nuclear blackmail, US envoy for Iran Brian Hook said. Enough is enough Speaking to Al Jazeera from Tehran, Mohammad Marandi, an academic at the University of Tehran, said Irans patience has run out over the nuclear deal. I dont think the Iranians consider the nuclear deal to be dead although for practical purposes, it has been dead for quite a while, Marandi said. Under Obama, the US refrained from implementing the deal, but under Trump, the Americans have become very extremist, and ultimately they have ripped up the agreement. The Europeans, despite promises and nice words, they have been effectively abiding by the dictates of Trump. 180509072633096 So, the Iranians are saying we cannot continue like this, weve been waiting for a year since the Americans exited the agreement, and we have been waiting to see what the Europeans will do. Now that we see theyre doing nothing, we have to take some steps. Marandi noted Iran made major concessions in signing up for the nuclear deal. Now the government has decided enough is enough. Robert Kelley, a former UN nuclear inspector now with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, said the commitments Iran was dropping had no bearing on its ability to develop an atomic bomb. He said Iran was simply seeking to save face after striking a deal which was not respected by the other side. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told his Russian counterpart on Wednesday that Tehrans decision to reduce its commitments was legal, the RIA news agency reported. Zarif, in Moscow for talks, told Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov that Irans actions did not violate the original terms of the nuclear agreement and that Tehran now had 60 days to take the necessary diplomatic steps. In response to the Iranian move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed not to allow Iran to acquire nuclear arms. This morning, on my way here, I heard that Iran intends to continue its nuclear programme, Netanyahu said at a ceremony on Israels annual day of remembrance for its war dead. We shall not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, he added. Escalatory steps Britain said Irans announcement was disconcerting. We are extremely concerned about this announcement and urge Iran to continue to meet its commitments under the deal and not to take escalatory steps, Prime Minister Theresa Mays spokesman told reporters. This deal is a crucial agreement which makes the world safer and we will ensure it remains in place for as long as Iran upholds these commitments. Germany urged the Iranian government not to take any aggressive steps. A government spokesman added Berlin wants to keep the Iran nuclear deal, and said Berlin would fully stick to its commitments as long as Iran does the same. Spokesman Steffen Seibert said work on setting up a special purpose vehicle for business with Iran is taking longer than expected. Currently, the last steps need to be taken for this corporation to be able to operate that includes Iran making the necessary preparations on its side, Seibert told a regular government news conference. The United States warned European banks, investors and businesses against engaging with the so-called special purpose vehicle (SPV), a Europe-backed system to facilitate non-dollar trade with Iran and circumvent US sanctions. If you are a bank, an investor, an insurer or other business in Europe you should know that getting involved in the special purpose vehicle is a very poor business decision, Tim Morrison, special assistant to the president, told a conference. Turks in Istanbul will vote for the second time on June 23 after Supreme Election Boards decision to rerun polls. Istanbul, Turkey Shortly before nightfall on the first day of Ramadan, before the evening call to prayer signified an end to the days fast, another important message was shared by the Supreme Election Board: the results from the citys March mayoral election would be annulled and the opposition CHP mayor would cede his post to a temporary caretaker. Now, Istanbul is set to hold a mayoral vote again on June 23 a controversial decision that has divided the metropolis residents. I think its absurd, said Aygul Ozkaragoz, a retired 70-year-old economist at Yeditepe University, who voted for the opposition. Yet the Istanbul-born resident plans to head to the polls again in a contest that will once more pit former Justice and Development (AK) Party Prime Minister Binali Yildirim against municipal head Ekrem Imamoglu. Deep in my heart, I want the election redone, said Mine Atli, an English and Turkish teacher who cast her ballot for Yildirim. She said she was shocked by Marchs results, and suspects Yildirim won the vote. Complicating matters is that the government awarded Imamoglu the certificate to become mayor just weeks ago. On that day, he addressed energized supporters by microphone while standing atop of a van outside the citys municipal offices. His unexpected win by a small margin of votes sparked excitement among some, including young residents of Istanbul, who have never known municipal rule by the opposition CHP. The way he talks, hes not dividing people, said Aykut Aslan, a 27-year-old consultant who lives in Besiktas. Hes trying to bring everyone together. Its not about right wing, left wing, AKP, CHP. It doesnt matter. Its about Turkey. Everything will be great Imamoglu has projected an upbeat image since Mondays announcement, sharing pictures of his familys iftar dinner that night, and appearing on the pro-opposition Fox channel the next day. A sign in Istanbuls Besiktas neighbourhood congratulating Ekrem Imamoglu on winning the mayoral election [Jeffrey Bishku-Aykul/Al Jazeera] Her sey cok guzel olacak (Everything will be great) has become a slogan for Imamoglu and his supporters, online and on Istanbuls streets. There is even some chatter about a possible presidential run in 2023. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan became mayor of Istanbul in 1994, building his base in the megacity before venturing into national politics. 190417142357942 But where Imamoglu supporters see a hero standing firm against a ruling party that wants control of Istanbul, AK Party supporters see a razor-thin victory worth questioning. Ersin Aydeniz is the 38-year-old CEO of E7 Group, an Istanbul-based company with investments in construction, energy and manufacturing. Last year, he also sought the nomination to become an AK Party candidate in his neighbourhood of Bakirkoy. He is sceptical of Imamoglus winning margin, which went down from around 30,000 votes to more than 13,000 after a recount. That means it was able to fall 17,000 votes, he said. There are 300,000 invalid votes. If even 10 percent of them were counted wrong, that makes 30,000 votes. A banner in Istanbuls Besiktas neighbourhood depicting opposition CHP leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu [Jeffrey Bishku-Aykul/Al Jazeera] Aydeniz said the most appropriate course of action is to hold a re-vote. But it also means invalidating Imamoglus mayoral certificate and the votes of his more than four million supporters. Atli said she believes the election board (YSK) could have handled the situation better. YSK is one of the most important and trustable institutions in the country. So, now, I think theres a shadow on it, Atli said. My concern is how the politics will run this new process. Now, they are not nominees, one of them [is] the ex-mayor, and the other is still a nominee. Thats the problem for me, she added. Anti-democratic For some Istanbul residents, Erdogans call for another election and the YSKs subsequent decision in favour of one shows how the integrity of Turkeys democracy and institutions are compromised. The AK Party and its ruling coalition partner, the nationalist MHP, have claimed irregularities in various neighbourhoods and 32 investigations were launched just last week. Among the areas in question was Kadikoy, a staunch opposition stronghold. Neighbourhood resident Cem Oguz Kar is a 27-year-old who backs the HDP and supports a boycott by the opposition of the June 23 poll. He said he believes participating is an acceptance of unjust policies. I think every opposition voter feels that this decision is anti-democratic, he said. Still, he plans to vote for Imamoglu, if the HDP backs him again. I think all parties besides AKP and MHP should boycott the elections, he said. It is the only solution for democracy in Turkey, I think. 190401172133394 Despite the dawn of yet another campaign season following three elections in the past three years, interest in Istanbuls mayoral race shows no signs of waning. Signs for candidates may not yet be up everywhere, but Aykut Aslan expects there could be major rallies. There will be maybe millions going to [show] support for each side. So the main fear for myself is [there] could be some attacks, Aslan said. Ozkaragoz, meanwhile, expects things to remain calm, and for disputes to remain private without spilling out onto the streets. Turkish history, according to her, is marked by ebbs and flows in democracy, and this is an ebb. I think we do have democracy maybe not to the extent of some other countries, said Ozkaragoz. But we still have rudimentary democracy in our veins, too. I think so. And I think it will be for the benefit of everybody, including the ruling party, if theres [a change in leadership]. A panel of five judges at Nigerias appellate court opened a hearing on Wednesday into legal challenges filed by the countrys main opposition against the outcome of Februarys presidential polls, as a throng of protesting women converged outside. The tribunal fixed May 15 as the date to begin hearing the filed petitions in the capital, Abuja. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, former vice president Atiku Abubakar, are challenging the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which triumphed with more than four million votes. Local and international observers said the election was tarnished by low turnout and a number of irregularities, including deadly violence and vote-buying. The Situation Room, a coalition of civic organisations, said there were at least 47 deaths. Another local monitor, YIAGA Africa, said notwithstanding the drawbacks, the announced election results reflect the votes cast. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also pushed back the polls by a week from the initial date after encountering logistical problems made worse by arson attacks on at least two of its offices and bad weather for flights carrying electoral materials. An outright rejection of the results by Atiku triggered weeks of melodrama and mudslinging from followers of both candidates. The PDP said it has technical experts from Microsoft and Oracle to corroborate its position that the announced results were tampered with. It is presenting the court with another set of results it said are from INECs official web server that shows a PDP victory by 1.6 million votes. INEC responded to the allegations, saying the alternative set was fabricated and invented for the purpose of this case. Like their campaign, PDPs tribunal case is a total effort in futility, Olusegun Dada, an APC member and presidential media team volunteer, told Al Jazeera. The alternative results theory is mostly hogwash. But like other well-meaning Nigerians, I will like to see how they intend to prove how 71 political parties ran in an election and their server recorded votes for only two candidates. Atiku not eligible The presidents legal team has also slammed Atiku, claiming the opposition leader is Cameroonian by heritage and therefore not eligible to contest the Nigerian presidency. Campaign spokesman Festus Keyamo also urged the secret police to investigate PDPs illegal access to INEC technology, but analysts say if the data is proven to be correct beyond a reasonable doubt in court, the APC may have a real case on its hands, regardless of how the evidence was obtained. Nigeria doesnt have the fruit of a poisonous tree doctrine for evidence admissibility in court, so if Atiku can indeed prove that the results he has are genuine, he may have a case, argued Tunde Ajileye, a partner at SBM Intelligence, a Lagos-based political and economic risk advisory. However, the electoral act does not explicitly specify electronic transmission, so its possible to argue that the only legally binding result is the one that went through the manual process. 190320141815010 A long legal battle is being anticipated over the following months given the slow pace of Nigerias judiciary. All in all, its likely we will have a drawn-out battle, said Ajileye. Atiku has the [financial] resources to continue pursuit and thats usually a factor. No presidential election has ever been overturned in Nigerias history, including the 2007 one that was also marred by widespread violence, voter intimidation, and non-existent polling units. The winner, Umaru Yaradua, conceded the process had shortcomings. Atiku, who came a distant third in that election behind Yaradua and Buhari, is hoping to get one up against history, emboldened by his running mates good fortune in years past. Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra in southeastern Nigeria, became the first person to benefit from upturned election results in 2006. After the death of a journalist last month, a new round of talks gets under way again in Northern Ireland. Talks aimed at restoring Northern Irelands power-sharing government have resumed in Belfast. It follows an admission by a dissident republican faction that it killed journalist Lyra McKee in Londonderry, also known as Derry, last month. It has raised fears of the return to sectarian violence. Al Jazeeras Nadim Baba reports from Belfast. US secretary of state makes unannounced Baghdad stop on eve of first anniversary since pullout from Iran nuclear deal. The top diplomat of the United States has made an unannounced visit to Iraq, underlining Washingtons efforts to stand up its ties with Baghdad as it pushes ahead with its maximum pressure against Tehran a US arch foe but an ally of neighbouring Iraq. Mike Pompeo on Tuesday suddenly cancelled talks in Germany and made a long detour from a European tour to spend four hours in Iraq, where he met both President Barham Salih and Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi. We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that its able to adequately protect Americans in their country, the US secretary of state told reporters after the meetings. They both provided assurances that they understood that was their responsibility, he said. In a brief statement, Iraqi Foreign Minister Mohammed Ali al-Hakim said the talks focused on bilateral ties, the latest security developments in the region and anti-terrorism efforts. Pompeo said he made the trip because Iranian forces are escalating their activity and said the threat of attacks were very specific. These were attacks that were imminent, Pompeo said. He declined to provide additional details to back his claims, which have been met with scepticism in numerous quarters, with many fearing that President Donald Trumps administration is seeking to prompt war with Iran. In the latest US move, the Pentagon said, it was sending several massive, nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the region. On Sunday, NSA John Bolton said the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force were being deployed to the US Central Command region to send a clear and unmistakable message to Tehran that any attack on US interests or on its allies will be met with unrelenting force. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Twitter: If US and clients dont feel safe, its because theyre despised by the people of the region blaming Iran wont reverse that. Irans state-run Press TV earlier said: The deployment seems to be a regularly scheduled one by the US Navy, and Bolton has just tried to talk it up. A military adviser to supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Washington was neither willing nor capable of military action against Iran, the semi-official news agency ISNA reported. One year since US nuclear deal pullout The rising tensions are playing out one year after the US unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, under which Tehran agreed to curbs on its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of international sanctions. The Trump administration has restored US sanctions and extended them, effectively ordering countries around the world to stop buying Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. Iran has continued complying with the deal. Washingtons European allies, which oppose the US pullout, have tried and failed to come up with ways to blunt the economic effect of Washingtons move while urging Iran to continue to comply. Iranian media reported that Tehran would write to the countries still signed up to the deal Britain, France and Germany as well as Russia and China on Wednesday to give them details about plans to diminish its commitments under the deal. Iranian state news reports have said Iran does not plan to pull out, but will revive some nuclear activity that was halted under the deal. Irans future actions will be fully within the (nuclear deal), from which the Islamic Republic will not withdraw, state media quoted Zarif as saying. The European Union and others did not have the power to resist US pressure, therefore Iran will not carry out some voluntary commitments. Johannesburg, South Africa Voting stations have closed following South Africas general election on Wednesday, 25 years after the countrys transition from apartheid to democracy. Provisional polling numbers will arrive by Thursday afternoon local time, according to Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) officials, with final results due to be announced on Saturday; South Africas new president will be inaugurated on May 25. This is the most hotly contested election in South African history, with a record 48 parties on the ballot, 19 more than last time around and nearly double the number that took part in the 1994 elections. 190507134749751 Pre-vote polls predicted that the ANC will win between 55 and 62 percent of the vote, while the centrist Democratic Alliance (DA) was predicted to get approximately 20 percent and the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) between 10 and 14 percent. The leaders of all three major political parties cast their votes during the course of Wednesday morning. ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa and DA head Mmusi Maimane both visited polling stations in the Johannesburg township of Soweto, an important site of resistance during the apartheid era, and former home to many prominent liberation icons. The EFFs firebrand leader, Julius Malema, voted in his home province of Limpopo. This is a vote that reminds us of 1994, Ramaphosa told media at the polling station. Our people were just as excited as this because they were heralding a new period, a new future for our country. And today, this is what I am also picking up. Against a backdrop of economic crises, spiralling crime, poor service delivery, widespread unemployment and rampant corruption, the ruling ANC hopes to bounce back from an unprecedentedly poor performance in 2016 local elections, when it ceded control of key cities to the DA. The run-up to todays vote was characterised by widespread service delivery protests across South Africa, which have drawn the extent likely winner Ramaphosas task into sharp focus. He will also have to overcome deep-set factionalism within his own party. Recent polls have predicted that the ANC will win between 55 and 62 percent of the vote [Chistopher Clark/Al Jazeera] The size of his expected victory at the polls will likely play a significant role in determining the extent to which he will be able to ramp up his reformist policies and root out corrupt ANC members. The DA has also faced divisions within its ranks since Maimane became the partys first black leader in 2015. While the most recent opinion polls predicted that it will comfortably retain its control of the Western Cape province, which it has governed since it unseated the ANC there in 2009, other provinces were harder to call. There is the possibility that the ANC will have to form coalitions to retain its majority in Gauteng, the province that incorporates major cities Johannesburg and Pretoria, as well in KwaZulu-Natal. The likelihood of a strong showing from the EFF in Gauteng, particularly among young and first-time voters, could see it become a kingmaker in the province. 190506162348258 At a crowded voting station in the Johannesburg township of Alexandra, Siphe Ntshikila, a 34-year-old factory worker who voted DA, said the process had been efficient and a positive experience and that there was a bigger voter turnout in the area than for the 2014 elections. I was standing in line from 5:30am in the morning, waiting to vote, he added. In Soweto, Ntombi Majala, a 40-year-old teacher, arrived to cast her vote draped in a large ANC banner bearing Ramaphosas smiling face. We all know if it wasnt for the ANC, we wouldnt be here, she said. Theyve experienced many problems, but I am happy that Ramaphosa has admitted that. We must support him with our votes so that now he can make a change. Tamara Mathebula, a national observer for the IEC, told Al Jazeera that the general mood at polling stations across the country was upbeat and that turnout seemed encouraging overall, despite widespread media coverage of apathy among voters. Since Monday, technical glitches, protests, and attempts to sabotage electoral officials and voting stations in various South African provinces have hindered or delayed processes at scores of voting stations. The South African National Defence Force was deployed to the particular hotspots of KwaZulu-Natal and North West Province on Wednesday. However, Mathebula said: In general, the situation is good. There is nothing to be drastically alarmed about. Two suspects, both male students, are in custody after shooting at a school near Denver. Two students have opened fire at a Colorado science and technology school, killing a fellow student and wounding seven others before being taken into custody, law enforcement and hospital officials in the United States said. The Douglas County Sheriffs office said deputies heard shots coming from the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, about 40km south of Denver, when they arrived to investigate reports of gunfire. A man who identified himself as Fernando Montoya said his 17-year-old son, a junior at STEM, was shot three times, and one of his friends was also wounded. He said his son, who was later released from a hospital, told him one attacker walked into his classroom and opened fire with a gun and another attacker was already in the classroom. He said a guy pulled a pistol out of a guitar case and started to shoot, Montoya told ABC affiliate Denver 7. Eight students were taken to a hospital with injuries, Sheriff Tony Spurlock told reporters. Several of the students were in critical condition, he said. One of those victims, an 18-year-old male, later died of his injuries, Spurlock said a short time later. Authorities did not release the name of the student who died. The suspects were identified only as two male students of the school, one an adult and the other under age 18, the sheriff said. Authorities said the shooting erupted in the middle school section of the campus, which combines elementary, middle and high school students. Two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school, and engaged students in two separate locations, Spurlock said. The shooting occurred less than a month after the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre in nearby Littleton, about eight kilometres from the STEM school. In 1999, two Columbine students killed 13 people there before committing suicide in what remains one of the deadliest school shootings in US history. On Tuesday, law enforcement officers initially searched STEM for a possible third suspect but police later determined that the two in custody had acted alone, officials said. A bit shaky A student who was not identified told Denver television station KUSA-TV outside the school after the shooting that the violence had left him a bit shaky and scared, but glad that I didnt get hurt. Colorado Governor Jared Polis said he was sending additional state law enforcement officials to the scene. We are making all of our public safety resources available to assist the Douglas County Sheriffs Department in their effort to secure the site and evacuate the students, Polis wrote on Twitter. 181120082040868 The sheriffs department directed parents to go to a nearby recreation centre to pick up their children. Local television showed dozens of police and fire vehicles surrounding the school as deputies conducted a room-by-room search of the campus. The Denver Post reported that all schools in the area were placed on a security lockdown while police and fire crews responded to the scene. Some of the worst mass shootings in the US have occurred in Colorado. In addition to Columbine, a man opened fire at a movie theatre in Aurora, Colorado, in 2012, killing 12 people and injuring scores more. The bloodshed in Colorado came one week to the day after a 22-year-old gunman opened fire on the Charlotte campus of the University of North Carolina, killing two people and wounding four others. The gunman was later disarmed and arrested. The White House offered a message of condolence. Our prayers are with the victims, family members, and all those affected by todays shooting, spokesman Judd Deere said. The White House has been in communication with state and local officials, and the president has been briefed and continues to monitor the ongoing situation. The ruling Transitional Military Council says Islamic laws should remain the guiding principle of Sudans new laws. Sudans military rulers have said the Islamic law and local norms should remain the guiding principle of the countrys new laws. The 10-member Transitional Military Council (TMC) was responding to a draft constitutional document presented to it by a coalition of protest groups and political parties. The TMC leaders said the document omitted Islamic law, which they said remained the bedrock of all laws. 190506085703602 Our view is that Islamic Sharia and the local norms and traditions in the Republic of Sudan should be the sources of legislation, TMC spokesman Shams al-Din Kabashi told reporters. The Northeast African countrys constitution says the Islamic law is Sudans guiding principle. Kabashi said the council believes the power to declare a state of emergency in the country should go to a sovereign authority, not to the cabinet, as the opposition suggested. The transitional period should last two years, not four, which was the oppositions proposal, he said. Discussions with the opposition were ongoing, but calling early elections within six months would be an option if they could not reach an agreement, Kabashi said. The military council has resisted calls to hand over power to civilian authority, the main demand of protesters [David Degner/Getty] On Tuesday, the main group spearheading the protests said the TMC responded to its plans for an interim government structure, and that it would announce its position once it had studied the reply. Amjad Farid, a spokesman for the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA), which has played the leading role in the protests, said the council had sent a written reply. 190507135422590 We will study the response and will announce our position later, Farid told reporters. Thousands of protesters, meanwhile, remain encamped outside the army complex in capital Khartoum, demanding that the military rulers step down and hand over power to a civilian administration. The generals took power after the army removed President Omar al-Bashir on April 11 following months of protests against his iron-fisted 30-year rule. Since then, the military council has resisted calls for handing over power to the civilians. As the military and the opposition debate makeup of transitional government, protesters vow not to back down. Sudans military rulers have agreed in principle with the oppositions proposal for a transitional government. But both sides are arguing over the shape of the transitional government, as they jostle to get their own representatives in. Al Jazeeras Hiba Morgan reports from the capital, Khartoum. Decision comes as House panel moved towards holding Attorney General Barr in contempt for refusing to hand over report. The White House on Wednesday took the aggressive step of invoking executive privilege to block the release of Special Counsel Robert Muellers full Russia report as a Democratic-led United States congressional panel moved towards holding Attorney General William Barr in contempt for refusing to hand over the document. The move announced by the White House marked another intensification in a constitutional clash between the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives and Republican President Donald Trump. Barr has refused to comply with a subpoena by the House Judiciary Committee to provide an unredacted version of the report and its underlying evidence. Executive privilege is a right claimed by presidents to withhold information about internal executive branch deliberations from other branches of government. Reacting to the decision, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler said the White House was misapplying the doctrine of executive privilege with a decision that represents a clear escalation in the Trump administrations blanket defiance of Congresss constitutionally mandated duties. I can only conclude that the president now seeks to take a wrecking ball to the Constitution of the United States of America, said Democratic Representative Sheila Jackson Lee. The White House said the actions of Democrats forced the move. Faced with Chairman Nadlers blatant abuse of power, and at the attorney generals request, the president has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege, said White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders. Hes becoming self-impeachable House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the top Democrat in Congress, said Trumps moves to thwart congressional subpoenas were obstructing politicians oversight of his administration. 190425185711995 Every single day the president is making the case, and hes becoming self-impeachable, Pelosi told the Washington Post shortly before Trump invoked executive privilege, referring to the impeachment process in Congress for removing a president from office. Trump is stonewalling numerous investigations by the Democrats, who control the House, of his administration, family and business interests, with court action likely to follow. The Judiciary Committee was slated to vote on a resolution recommending that the full House find Barr in contempt of Congress, even as committee staffers and Justice Department officials worked behind the scenes in the hopes of a deal to avert such action. The American people see through Chairman Nadlers desperate ploy to distract from the Presidents historically successful agenda and our booming economy. Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands, Sanders said. Judiciary Committee Republicans condemned the move towards holding Barr in contempt. What a cynical, mean-spirited, counterproductive and irresponsible step it is, said the panels top Republican, Doug Collins. Determined to get unredacted report 190426171654736 Barr last month released a 448-page redacted version of Special Counsel Robert Muellers report on his 22-month investigation into Russian election meddling in the 2016 presidential election. Nadler subpoenaed the full document and all underlying evidence, saying the material was necessary for politicians to determine whether Trump obstructed justice by trying to impede the Mueller probe. Barr missed two subpoena deadlines for turning over the material, the latest on Monday. We remain unanimously determined on our side of the aisle to get the unredacted report, as weve demanded, Representative Jamie Raskin, a Democrat on Nadlers committee, told reporters. Democrat Ted Deutch said that executive privilege is not a cloak of secrecy that drapes across our nations capital from the White House to the Justice Department. He accused the attorney general of stonewalling and misleading people. He is actively working to suppress the truth, Deutch said on Wednesday. Representative Doug Collins, the panels ranking Republican, criticised Nadler in a statement late on Tuesday for rejecting Justice officials accommodations, and praised the departments endurance. The House, then controlled by Republicans, voted in 2012 to hold Eric Holder, attorney general under Democratic President Barack Obama, in contempt for failing to turn over subpoenaed Justice Department documents about a gun-running investigation called Operation Fast and Furious. It was the first time that Congress had held the top US law enforcement official or any Cabinet member in contempt. Redacted Mueller report: What does it say? The redacted Mueller report details extensive contacts between Trumps 2016 campaign and Moscow as well as the campaigns expectation of benefiting from Russias actions. It did not establish that the Trump campaign conspired with Russian operatives. The investigation did, however, examine multiple acts by the president that were capable of exerting undue influence over law enforcement investigations. Mueller did not conclude that Trump committed obstruction of justice, but did not exonerate him either. Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein subsequently concluded that Trump did not break the law. The Justice Department has made a less redacted version available for House and Senate leaders and some committee heads, but the Democrats have said that is not enough and have so far declined to read it. 190418154116647 On Tuesday, the Trump administration stymied a separate effort by House Judiciary Committee Democrats to subpoena records from former White House Counsel Don McGahn, directing him not to provide the documents sought by the panel. Muellers report said McGahn told investigators that Trump unsuccessfully pressured him to remove Mueller and then asked him to deny that Trump had done so. The accounts are based partly on the documents sought by House Democrats. The Trump administration has refused to cooperate with congressional probes in at least a half-dozen instances, including Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchins decision on Monday to deny a request for Trumps tax returns from the Democratic chairman of the House tax committee. With additional reporting by William Roberts in Washington, DC. The CHP makes new move in Turkeys election dispute as AK Party heavyweights denounce decision to rerun mayoral vote. Turkeys main opposition party has asked authorities to annul last years national elections as well as the entire Istanbul city election in March, following a decision to rerun only the mayoral vote. The Republican Peoples Party (CHP) said on Wednesday that votes for Istanbul officials and councils should be cancelled if the mayoral vote is rerun. President Recep Tayyip Erdogans Justice and Development (AK) Party won a majority in the councils. Following appeals by the AK Party, citing irregularities in the appointment of polling station officials, the High Election Board on Monday ordered a rerun of the Istanbul mayoral election, which the CHPs Ekrem Imamoglu won with a slim majority. Voters chose district administrators, mayors, municipal councils, and local officials in the March 31 election. Of those four votes, the board ruled to annul only the Istanbul mayoral result, which the AK Party lost. But the CHP said the ruling should apply to all four elections because the votes cast in the same envelopes and counted by the same officials. If youre revoking Ekrem Imamoglus mandate then you must also annul President Erdogans mandate because the same laws, same regulations, same applications, same polling stations and conditions were present in both elections, CHP Deputy Chairman Muharrem Erkek told reporters. Why are you not cancelling the results that came out of the same envelopes, he said. Meanwhile, two former heavyweights of Erdogans ruling party have criticised the decision to rerun the mayoral vote, expressing concern the decision would damage the states reputation. They have added their voices to a chorus of criticism from abroad. Fundamental values damaged Former Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said on Tuesday that the decision to annul the results caused damage to one of our fundamental values. 190506163052594 The biggest loss for political movements is not losing elections but the loss of moral superiority and social conscience, he wrote on Twitter. Abdullah Gul, former president and cofounder of the AK Party, also criticised the ruling, saying it showed the party had not made any headway since past constitutional spats. Both men have fallen out with Erdogan since their time in office and there have been persistent rumours over the years that they may set up their own parties. Gul, who has lately kept his distance from daily politics, compared the situation to a 2007 ruling by the countrys top court that prevented him from becoming president without a two-thirds majority in parliament. As a result, a general election was held, and the new parliament then backed Gul with the required majority to become president. What I felt in 2007 that is what I felt yesterday when another high court, the Supreme Electoral Council, took its decision. It is a pity that we have not made any headway, he tweeted. Before last years presidential and general elections, there was speculation that Gul would run against Erdogan, but he did not enter the race. Incomprehensible decision In addition to protests from the countrys opposition and former AK Party heavyweights, a number of countries have expressed concern at the courts decision. 190502090924979 On Tuesday, Germanys foreign minister described the decision as incomprehensible, and the European Union has asked for an explanation. The replay of the Istanbul mayoral election is due to be held on June 23. Ege Seckin, an analyst with HIS Country Risk, said the move by the election board casts a shadow on the electoral process in Turkey. He told Al Jazeera from London: This is something we had not seen in Turkey until now. The decision casts a shadow on the integrity of the ballot box in the country, which was something relatively safe, as some would claim, from the authoritarian tendencies of the government. It is definitely a bad sign for what may come. And it potentially creates a discouragement for the integrity of future elections. French police gear up for protesters as Europe commemorates the anniversary of Nazi Germanys surrender. Yellow vest protesters, whose roadblocks and demonstrations have sparked chaos in the French capital since November, will be prevented from rallying at major sites in central Paris during commemorations marking the end of World War II in Europe. The anti-government movement campaigning for radical tax reforms and minimum wage increases was on Wednesday barred from causing any disruption along the Champs-Elysees avenue and at the famed Arc de Triomphe, Paris police said. The Arc, commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate his military victories and containing the French tomb of the unknown soldier, was vandalised during a protest last year. Culture Minister Franck Riester said in a statement last week $1.3m had been spent restoring the landmark before the 74th anniversary of VE Day. The restoration has been done in only a few months, which is very fast, said Riester. French president Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday drove along the Champs-Elysee accompanied by a delegation of Republican Guards to lay a wreath at the Arc de Triomphe in tribute to the 600,000 French deaths during the war. French schools and many businesses are closed on May 8, a public holiday in France and several other European nations, and wreath-laying events take place in towns and villages across the country. VE Day Victory in Europe Day marks the day following the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany in 1945. China, Russia and Israel among first countries to react to Tehrans decision to lift cap on uranium enrichment. Iran has announced it will resume high-level enrichment of uranium if world powers do not keep their promises under a 2015 nuclear agreement. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday the remaining signatories the United Kingdom, France, Germany, China and Russia had 60 days to implement their promises to protect Irans oil and banking sectors from US sanctions. He also announced Iran would roll back some of its commitments under the deal. Under the agreement signed in Vienna, Iran scaled back its uranium enrichment programme and promised not to pursue nuclear weapons. The latest move came exactly one year since US President Donald Trump withdrew his country from the historic accord. Starting today, Iran does not keep its enriched uranium and produced heavy water limited. The EU/E3+2 will face Iran's further actions if they can not fulfill their obligations within the next 60 days and secure Iran's interests. Win-Win conditions will be accepted. Hassan Rouhani (@HassanRouhani) May 8, 2019 Heres a round-up of statements from around the world: United States US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said during a visit to London on Wednesday his country would wait and see Tehrans next move. I think it was intentionally ambiguous, Pompeo said of Irans announcement. Well have to wait and see what Irans actions actually are before deciding on a US response. Theyve made a number of statements about actions they threatened to do in order to get the world to jump Im confident as we watch Irans activity that the United Kingdom and our European partners will move forward together to ensure Iran has no pathway for a nuclear weapons system. Russia Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the situation surrounding the fate of the nuclear accord has been complicated by the irresponsible behaviour of Washington. His remarks came as he met his Iranian counterpart, Mohammad Javad Zarif, in Moscow on Wednesday. Lavrov said they would discuss the unacceptable situation that has been exacerbated by the US. The US is to blame for the situation and it makes it difficult for both Iran to fulfil its obligations and for the general state of the nuclear non-proliferation regime, said Lavrov. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin remained committed to the agreement and there were no alternatives at the moment to the deal. Putin has repeatedly spoken about the consequences of ill-considered steps towards Iran, meaning the decision taken by Washington to reimpose sanctions, Peskov said. He said Russia would work with European countries to maintain the continued viability of the nuclear deal and it was too early to discuss the possibility of Russia joining sanctions against Tehran. Putin has said that it is ill-conceived and arbitrary decisions that put unreasonable pressure on Iran and cause the adverse steps that we are facing. China China called on all parties to uphold the Iranian nuclear accord. Maintaining and implementing the comprehensive agreement is the shared responsibility of all parties, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang at a regular press briefing. We call on all relevant parties to exercise restraint, strengthen dialogue, and avoid escalating tensions, he said, adding that China resolutely opposes unilateral US sanctions against Iran. Israel Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed not to allow Iran to acquire nuclear arms after Tehrans announcement. We will not allow Iran to achieve nuclear weaponry. We will continue to fight those who would kill us, Netanyahu said. Israels prime minister has been an outspoken critic of the 2015 agreement. He welcomed Trumps withdrawal from the deal last year. Netanyahu considers Iran to be Israels greatest threat. Netanyahu said Israel will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives, and we will thrust our roots even deeper into the soil of our homeland. Iran has denied ever seeking nuclear weapons, insisting its atomic programme is entirely for peaceful purposes. United Kingdom British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said Irans announcement to resume higher enrichment of uranium is an unwelcome step and urged Iran to adhere to the 2015 nuclear deal. Speaking at a news conference in London alongside US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Hunt urged Iran not to take further escalatory steps and said Britain wasnt ready to give up on the deal. For as long as Iran keeps its commitments, then so too will the United Kingdom, Hunt said. Hunt said Britain and the US agreed on the need to confront the threat from Iran, but its no secret we have a different approach on how best to achieve that. Germany Germany urged the Iranian government not to take any aggressive steps. A foreign ministry spokesman added Berlin wants to keep the Iran nuclear deal and said Berlin would fully stick to its commitments as long as Iran does the same. Government spokesman Steffen Seibert said work on setting up a special-purpose vehicle for business with Iran is taking longer than expected. Currently, the last steps need to be taken for this corporation to be able to operate that includes Iran making the necessary preparations on its side, Seibert told a regular government news conference. France Frances defence minister voiced concern over Irans threat to resume higher enrichment of uranium, saying the question of sanctions will be raised if the nuclear deal isnt respected. Florence Parly told BFMTV that nothing would be worse than Iran leaving this deal. European Union The European Union is in an assessment phase after Rouhani informed the other parties to the 2015 nuclear deal that Iran will partially pull out of the agreement, a senior EU official said on condition of anonymity. The contents of the messages sent have to be analysed, he noted, adding consultations would take place in the coming days between the remaining signatories of the deal. EU foreign ministers will have the first opportunity to discuss the developments at regular talks in Brussels on Monday. Any EU decision to reimpose sanctions on Iran would have to be taken by all member states. About the show A weekly programme that examines and dissects the worlds media, how they operate and the stories they cover. Watch The Listening Post every Saturday at 0830GMT According to Decision No 115/QD-SGDHCM dated April 11, 2019, HoSE approved the listing of HVN stocks with a total value of VND 14,128 billion (US$607.75 million). With the reference price on the first trading day set at VND40,600 ($1.75 ) per share, the fluctuation range is 20 percent. The capitalisation value was estimated at VND 57 trillion ($2.45 billion). Nguyen Hoang Anh, Chairman of the Committee for Management of State Capital at Enterprises (CMSC), said Vietnam Airlines had become the largest capitalised company listed on the HoSE from the beginning of this year and one of the two companies among 19 State-owned corporations, which are represented by CMSC, with shares listed on the bourse. This is the result of the effective business strategy that Vietnam Airlines' Board of Directors has enforced," Anh said. "From the perspective of State owner, we assess that the State capital at Vietnam Airlines is an effective investment, bringing practical benefits to the State, shareholders and employees." Chairman of the Vietnam Airlines' Board of Directors Pham Ngoc Minh said the listing was an important step to help Vietnam Airlines improve its reputation, increase transparency, standardise operations and access new investment sources. On April 23 this year, all HVN shares listed on the UPCoM stock exchange were cancelled. For more than two years of listing at UPCoM, HVN was among the top five most traded stocks with an average of more than 800,000 shares traded per session, equivalent to value of VND 30.6 billion (based on the average HVN share price in 2018). Officially operating as a joint stock company from April 1, 2015, Vietnam Airlines has maintained a strong growth rate with revenue and profit targets higher than the previous year. In the first quarter of 2019, Vietnam Airlines made consolidated revenue of nearly VND 26 trillion (almost $1.12 billion) and consolidated pre-tax profit of nearly VND1.58 trillion ($67.94 million), equal to 45 percent of the 2019 plan. Following the humiliating defeat at Anfield, there have to be some serious changes coming at Barcelona. The most important has to be the signing of players who could actually make a difference and provide Messi some respite at Barcelona. When Coutinho was signed it was done with that intention. But it never materialized! There is a number of changes coming to Barcelona after this defeat. The future of Valverde is in serious question and now it needs to be seen who takes the reins. He cannot simply continue at the top now after spectacularly managing to destroy Barca's two title chances. Neymar's resigning would be Imminent Don't be surprised, if Barcelona's first business of summer would be the resigning of Neymar. Neymar has been struggling at PSG and made clear in many interviews about the mistake of leaving Barcelona. He has raised many SOS calls but the presence of Coutinho and Dembele meant we never thought of it. But now the management would be seriously thinking of getting him back. PSG also would be looking to offload him to manage the equations in the squad. Neymar wants to be in a place where he feels respected and valued. The debacle of last two season's in Europe means Barcelona fans would welcome with arms stretched open. The way he left will not come in between as both the parties need each other badly now. The Boomer Age is drawing to its close. When one speaks of this group, it tends to mostly focus on white Boomers (not that others are outside the group, but to such a great extent, it really does mean those of mostly European background, if for no other reason than they have been the largest demographic group). When that age does end, we will see an ever dwindling European demographic majority in many Western nations (Canada and the USA are almost certainly the first, soon followed by a variety of European nations). That significant point of majority will be fading, as the numbers precipitously drop until below 50%. The question looming then is, what is next? Will it be the glorious Brave New World of harmonious multiculturalism or an uneasy balkanization that trends ever more to tribalism and violence? Based on existing evidence and studies, I believe that it will be closer to the latter. A major demographic shift is impacting most Western nations, some more than others. This shift will lead to a far more multicultural/ethnic scenario, with those of European background as the minority within the next few decades. At first blush, many will say this is not a problem, holding out the wonders of civic nationalism and existing relative stability and prosperity with an already highly mixed demographic. The problem here is that this position doesn't really hold water in the long term, as can be demonstrated by existing nations who have not been able to sustain a similar state of peaceful existence and by studies that point in the same direction. In the case of historical examples, we can point to places such as South Africa, Brazil, and the Rwandan and Yugoslavian debacles of the 1990s as a counterpoint to the belief in a multicultural paradise, as each has had great disharmony and violence between the different ethnicities who live there. The balkanization of Yugoslavia is a likely outcome facing a large number of Western nations something that has been the case throughout history. (Even those of much more similar ethnocultural background have had difficulties assimilating and living together, such as the Irish and Italians who first arrived in the New World with significant tensions and clashes with the already existing citizens of North America.) Another case in point in history is the former Soviet Union's policy of population transfer, which was meant to break down nationalist sentiment but created various degrees of disharmony throughout its former "empire" (notably in Ukraine). As far as studies that support this same concern, one can simply refer to Robert Putnam's article, later a book, "Bowling Alone," which denotes that the more a nation's ethnocultural homogeneity dissipates, the more its social capital and cohesion erode. A liberal academic and former member of the Carter administration, Putnam was reticent about revealing his findings, as they did not align with what he had hoped for. After waiting a decade, he finally did publish his findings, compounded and made more egregious by the additional years of data that just more fully affirmed what he dreaded in the first place. More recently, a working paper called "The Nature of Conflict," written by Cemal E. Arbatli, Quamrul H. Ashraf, and Oded Galor (names that hardly ring out as typically WASP in origin), further entrenches much of what Putnam asserted (as does, to a great extent, renowned military historian Martin van Creveld, who has gone so far as to argue that mass immigration is invasion i.e., effectively another type of warfare). Others who have made similar claims, based on these and other studies (notably Mark Steyn and Douglas Murray), have similarly argued that a fully multicultural Western world will not end well and that any negative aspects will assuredly show themselves once the Baby-Boomer generation has disappeared. (Note: Any such conflict cannot be seen as a "white versus nonwhite" scenario. There will almost certainly be multiple intersections that may lead to conflict, such as was seen during the L.A. riots of 1992 and Ferguson, Missouri 2014, where black curiously attacked Asian, especially Korean, residents, to their ultimate chagrin. In addition, we are just as likely to see at least some alliances among those of closer cultures or concepts of what ideals should exist for a civil society example: those of European background aligning with those of Far East Asian ethnicity.) I want to stress that what is to come may not be as bad, or, if one gets more dramatic, horrific as it could be. The title of this article was meant to be provocative, not necessarily prophetic. Undoubtedly, though, there will be varying degrees of stress (social and economic) and disharmony, depending on the nation or region of a nation. As mentioned before, there will almost certainly be some positive outcomes, alliances, and assimilation and integration, but the question is, to what extent and how much will in-group preference end up overriding any such positive outcomes? Although I truly hope we do not see anything like a Yugoslavia or Rwanda scenario, we must be realistic and be prepared for any eventuality, especially when there have been strong historical, anecdotal examples, as well as academic studies that suggest we are headed for at least some turbulence once the Boomers are gone. Cam's a married father of three. Born and raised in Canada, he currently lives on the left coast of Canada, notorious for its milder winters and liberal thinking. He's a university-educated educator, blogger, former generally indifferent employee within the financial sector, and failed musician. A Christian of what has usually been termed politically conservative leanings, he prefers to be labeled a realist at this time, mostly for lack of a better term, as too often conservatives have been little more than slow-motion liberals. Hatred of Israel, and its close cousin, hatred of Jews, have been commonly held and expressed sentiments on college campuses in the US, Canada, and Europe in recent years. Anti-Israel speakers are invited to speak, paid handsome fees, and draw large audiences of enthusiastic students, faculty and administrators. Anti-Zionist groups, often dominated by Arab or Muslim students, proliferate and ally with groups representing other minority groups in an effort to create an intersectionality of interests, where various minority groups all rally in support of any of the causes any of the individual identity groups support. Groups such as Students for Justice in Palestine and the misnamed Jewish Voices for Peace, regularly taunt and harass pro-Israel students, disrupt meetings and talks by pro-Israel groups, and try to prevent pro-Israel speakers from appearing on campus. Even at schools with a large percentage of Jewish students, university administrators appear to endorse actions directed at Jewish students or pro-Israel students though they never would allow similar activities directed against other minority groups they care to protect or favor. Recently, Emory University gave its administrative stamp of approval to the posting of eviction notices by SJP on student dorm rooms (many of them with Jewish residents), meant to scare students and attempt to link the eviction threat to actions taken by Israeli authorities they falsely claim are routine in Israel and the West Bank. In one of the lamest defenses ever offered for blatantly anti-Semitic activity on a college campus, a high-ranking Emory administrator offered this defense of the schools approval of the eviction notice posting: Emory interim vice president and vice provost Paul Marthers issued the initial statement. In justifying the posting of the flyers, Marthers stated they were "posted as part of a communication campaign by a student organization concerned with human rights in the Middle East." At New York University, another school with a substantial population of Jewish students, an award was given to SJP for its positive impact on the community. Evidence of their positive impact must include this: In addition to posting mock eviction notices across campus, Jewish students at NYU have seen Israeli flags destroyed, swastikas painted in dorms, and anti-Israel BDS resolutions passed by student groups. They have faced screams of "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free" a crystal-clear expression of the desire to eliminate the State of Israel as they walk past "apartheid walls" covered with hateful anti-Israel propaganda. If that is considered a positive model for the school community, we are certainly living through Orwellian times which are looking more and more like pre-WWII German times. Two other incidents on college campuses in recent days suggest that a new hurdle has been raised for those who might want to be part of a group that supports the state of Israel or attempts to defend it namely, that speaking or writing in favor of Israel, or even organizing a college club for those who are committed to support for Israel, shall not be allowed. Williams College, a high scorer in many ratings of small liberal arts colleges, seems to have gone the furthest in its commitment to shutting down expression of a point of view that is opposed by the loudest, least knowledgeable, and most abrasive campus voices. The Williams student council voted 13-8 to deny the formation of a pro-Israel club, the first club rejected by students in over a decade . Some of the students who spoke against the club at a council meeting made no bones about their reasons. Your club is pro-Israel, which means you support a state that is built on Palestinian land, said one and made it clear that believing in the right of Israel to exist was a red line that no registered student organization should be permitted to cross. Israel is a fascist state said another. The existence of Israel is built on the killing of Palestinians, said a third. It is verboten to believe at Williams College that the state of Israel has a right to exist. Israel is not a fascist state but a western democracy, though some of its neighbors would clearly qualify for the fascist label based on their rejection of basic human rights, including free speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom to practice the religion of ones choice, free and fair elections, tolerance for difference (e.g., gay rights, minority group rights). And sadly, the intemperance, viciousness and general ignorance demonstrated by Israels critics at Williams suggests that a whiff of fascism may exist in the rural bucolic air at the esteemed institution. The 20-year-olds, who are certain they know all there is to know about any complex subject, remain steadfast that no one shall offer a counter viewpoint. Why the fear of an alternative viewpoint? When the argument that prevails is due solely to intimidation, shouting, shutting off discussion, and the perceived need to support fellow marginalized student groups, the truth or even debate are dangerous to the zealots. At DePaul University in Chicago, a far less distinguished institution as far as academic ratings, the hysteria generated by the perceived threat from pro-Israel voices is no different than at Williams, though here faculty have joined with their student mob to harass a professor who authored a pro-Israel article, and the professor has received death threats and now requires security on campus . The offending article by Philosophy Professor Jason Hill expressed a point of view that is part of the serious debate in Israel on policy regarding the territories occupied in the Six Day War, one that has been argued by the likes of Caroline Glick in her book The Israeli Solution. Over 3,000 students have signed a petition condemning Professor Hill: Several student groups have denounced Hills praise for Jewish and Western civilizations achievements as racist, anti-Palestinian, xenophobic, sexist and Islamophobic, characterizing his criticisms of Sharia law as uncivilized, barbaric, and primitive. Those who are loudest in their objections to inviting speakers to campus with views different from their own, or who object to articles that propound a different perspective, always have the option of not attending a lecture, ignoring what a club does on campus if they are not aiming any venom at others (the way SJP and JVP routinely do towards Jewish and pro-Israel students), or not reading an article they deem offensive. The first whine from students who feel threatened by alternative points of view is the hurt they experience because of the speech or article. Since when does serious debate on an issue threaten anyones physical health or wellbeing, especially when they always have the opportunity to ignore anything they deem to be not of interest or not worth attending? Imagine attending college and actually allowing your views, seemingly set in stone after 20 years, to face some challenge from others who may in fact know a lot more about a subject than you do. At DePaul, the faculty council endorsed a resolution of condemnation, with most of those supporting the gesture coming from fields having nothing whatever to do with the Israeli Palestinian conflict, but presumably expert enough and otherwise all-wise, to judge the fallacy of an article on a subject on which they are know nothings. This action is incredible given traditional faculty deference to and support for academic freedom. It seems making a case for Israel, any case for Israel, eliminates such protections. So far, the President of DePaul has not bowed down to those who are demanding relief from their professor who has strayed from the reservation of acceptable argument. Professor Hill is Jamaican and gay, which demonstrates the power of the forces allied to swat away any pro-Israel sentiment expressed at the school; it even trumps the normally sacrosanct identity group membership , which Professor Hill to his credit, has never relied on to make his arguments. The events at Williams and DePaul suggest that hatred of Israel and anti-Zionism may now be at the top of the grievance tree at American universities. It does not seem to matter whether one gets mis-educated at an elite private college or an urban Catholic university. The idea that students challenge orthodoxy during their college years and grapple with great ideas seems to be rather foreign in the current campus environment. The debate over Israel and the Palestinians is not one where there can be only one view allowed to be expressed on a campus. If we are at that stage, and if those who seek to shut off debate are triumphant, then we are at a stage where higher education is in fact a key driver in the closing of the American mind. Richard Baehr is co-founder of American Thinker Last week witnessed the final day of classes at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte (UNCC). It was also the last day of Riley Howell's life. When a gunman entered his classroom, panic quickly ensued, and virtually everyone ran for the exits everyone except Riley Howell. With instincts that precious few possess, and tactics taught by the United States Secret Service, this young man ran toward the danger and tackled the shooter, knocking him off his feet, which enabled first-responders to subdue the gunman. Howell would pay for this brave and selfless act with his life, an action that apparently surprised no one who knew him. His friends and family would have expected nothing less from this twenty-one-year-old ROTC cadet, who envisioned a career in the military or in firefighting because putting others first was who he was. His family stated, as a matter of fact, that had Riley turned and run when the shooter entered the classroom, he would never have been able to live with himself. Riley Howell died too young, but he died a hero. The statistics on campus shootings are grim. Between the 200102 and 201516 academic school years, 437 people were shot, leaving 167 dead in 190 separate incidents on 142 college campuses. This includes carnage on the campus of Virginia Tech that alone claimed 32 lives. Other incidents in the headlines include the University of Iowa (1991, 4 dead), Northern Illinois University (2008, 5 dead, 21 injured ), Oikos University (2012, 7 dead, 3 injured), Santa Monica College (2013, 5 dead, 4 injured), and Umpqua Community College (2015, 9 dead, 9 injured). This trend of increased violence on college campuses shows no sign of abating. The number of casualties over the last five years represents a 241-percent increase over the number of casualties during the 20012006 school years. There are more ominous clouds on the horizon, including a concerning spike in hate crimes on college campuses. The UNCC deaths of Riley Howell and another student (Ellis Parlier) will regrettably not be the last on college campuses. Unlike airplanes and K12 schools, universities are by their very nature open environments that have no natural choke points that facilitate screening for weapons and stopping those intent on doing harm. In the nomenclature of the day, universities are your quintessential soft targets. The lethal combination of large lecture halls (with capacities of several hundred), the attention of students focused elsewhere and ready access to rapid-fire weaponry, classrooms can easily become shooting galleries for those with evil intent. The time has come for creative ("outside-the-box") solutions to this serious problem. A proposal that universities should seriously consider is to offer free or highly subsidized tuition to law enforcement personnel who are committed to advancing their education while carrying lethal force sufficient to neutralize any threat that may arise. This proposal promises myriad benefits at little or no real cost. First, this proposal reduces the likelihood of a bloodbath that would almost certainly have occurred at UNCC because we cannot expect every classroom to have a Riley Howell present. What is more, we should not be asking college students to defend their classmates against the ongoing threat of lethal force. This is a job for professionals who are trained to identify the threat well in advance of it becoming an "active shooter" situation. Second, not unlike the use of air marshals, knowledge of this plan should serve as an effective deterrent to those who would otherwise go unchallenged. The prospective shooters will be less likely to engage the campus environment because they recognize that the odds of success in carrying out their plans have been markedly reduced. Third, this plan offers the prospect of easing the long held tensions between academia and law enforcement. The "socialization" of law enforcement personnel with faculty and students should help to improve community relations in the aggregate. Law enforcement will increasingly be seen on campus as friend, not foe. Fourth, the quality of the learning environment on college campuses is likely to be enhanced when students can focus on their studies with less concern over the threat that is poised to walk into their classroom mid-lecture. Fifth, this proposal offers the prospect of a win-win proposition for all parties. The effective cost to the university for these tuition breaks is negligible. (The marginal cost of filling an empty seat in a classroom is essentially zero.) In turn, law enforcement personnel are able to invest in their human capital at virtually no cost to them. This will serve to complement tuition assistance programs that many police departments across the country already provide. These supplemental benefits should aid recruiting efforts and partly compensate for the increased risk borne by law enforcement personnel in modern society. Finally, because these tuition benefits represent a de facto salary increase for those participating in the program, the quality of candidates attracted to careers in law enforcement can be expected to increase. At the end of the day, we can reasonably expect a more highly educated law enforcement community and an increase in the caliber of those attracted to this profession. This may be expected to further improve relations between academia and law enforcement. Riley Howell's selfless sacrifice enabled his fellow students to pursue their dreams even though it came at the high cost of never being able to realize his own. He need not have died in vain. Because he was armed with the courage to do what few others would, we owe it to him to devise smart solutions to this mounting threat on college campuses and reduce the risk that more students will be needlessly slaughtered. Godspeed, Riley Howell. Dennis Weisman is a professor of economics emeritus, Kansas State University. In a poll suggesting that U.S. Marines would be welcomed by Venezuelans the way nearby Grenadians welcomed them in 1983, the Meganalisis pollsters said that 89.5% of Venezuelans would support a foreign military invasion to end Nicolas Maduro's socialist dictatorship. Breitbart has the story here: An overwhelming majority of Venezuelans would support a foreign military intervention to oust socialist dictator Nicolas Maduro and believe that the rogue regimes in Russia and Cuba have colonized their country, the national polling firm Meganalisis found in a survey published Monday. Asked if the federal legislature, the National Assembly, should authorize foreign military missions in the country, 89.5 percent of Venezuelans said yes. Another 91.2 percent said they did not believe it was possible for Venezuelans to remove Maduro without foreign military intervention. About 88 percent said they did not trust the nations armed forces. If such a number is true, it would amount to a sea change in Latin American sentiment, given that for years, the dominant narrative in that region has been 'yanqui imperialismo bad.' Suddenly they'd like a little of that? Well, yes, according to the Breitbart report, because Venezuelans are already being ruled by Cuban imperialismo, and Russian imperialismo, as the respondants say. You can't pick your imperialist, but if you could, the report suggests that gringo is best. And, it could be a bellwether to make U.S. military intervention easier and more likely, given that U.S. officials have said that the matter is 'still on the table.' If a population is with the Marines, it makes any potential intervention easier and shorter. It's hard to say how reliable this poll is, given that I don't know much about the firm Meganalisis. The Miami Herald has cited them as reliable - with one of their top correspondents, Jim Wyss, citing their work in previous reports. Points for reliability there. I also know that a different firm, Datanalisis, is a better-known and reputedly reliable Venezuelan polling firm, too. About nine months ago, they had Venezuelan sentiment at about 35% favorable to military intervention as of last September. A left-wing professor from the U.S. said he worked with them, so there might be a bit of under-reporting of the figure, though in his piece here, he does not seem noticibly biased or Chavista-oriented. At the same time, Meganalisis reported an 84.3% favorability toward foreign military intervention. What we can conclude, then, is that support has risen, though it's hard to say how great it is. Anecdotally, it would seem that a rise makes sense. The dictatorship has dug its heels to a greater extent than it ever has, in the face of exponential failures of governance - blackouts, starvation, medical failure, economic meltdown, and a refugee flood. The election system is utterly rotten with fraud and now the human rights violations are beginning. The dictatorship was last seen slaughtering protesting Venezuelans with vehicles in the streets this month and its death squads have literally been broacasting their beheadings of opponents. The dictatorship seems to have reached peak terror now. In circumstances like that, it's pretty natural to want the problem gone the fastest way it can be gone - which would mean calling for the Marines. Second, Venezuela's top democracy fighters, people who have put their lives on the line in the streets such as Maria Corina Machado, have said this was the only option they could see left. Two top exiled leaders, Ricardo Hausmann at Harvard University, and former Caracas governor and United Nations Security Council president, Diego Arria, have supported her. Arria, in fact has cited the United Nation humanitarian intervention in Bosnia in the early 1990s as a valid reason for sweeping out the dictatorship in Caracas. Another prominent Latin American (from Uruguay), Luis Almagro, who leads the Organization of American States, has said intervention could be 'justified by international law.' One thing is certain about all of these leaders from Venezuela: They themselves are extremely popular among Venezuelans and it's unlikely they would be if they were calling for something unpopular. That ticks the scale a little further toward credibility for the Meganalisis poll. The favorable factors can be balanced by history, which is to say, that maybe the poll was a push-poll for intervention, given that ... sorry to say ... the U.S. (and plenty of other states besides) has a bit of history of going to war under artificial or errant triggers, such as the Tonkin Gulf incident, or perhaps the Iraq conflict's quest of weapons of mass destruction. It would be useful to know who paid for the poll and why it was done. Does someone want to lay the groundwork for going to war? One hopes not, because it would make life miserable for the Marines if something like this were used as a pretext and the ground conditions were not there. Now, make no mistake, probably the easiest way to hose Venezuela out probably would be a Marine intervention. But it might not be the right intervention - wars cost U.S. blood and treasure with quagmires always a risk, and people can be ungrateful. The poll does tell us a bit about rising sentiment in favor of foreign intervention. But it's not enough to justify intervention. It just might be helpful as a puzzle piece on the way to resolving Venezuela's intractible crisis. Image credit: Airman Apprentice Shannon Garcia, U.S. Navy, public domain John Solomon of The Hill has yet another scoop that demonstrates lying to the FISA Court, thereby enabling spying on the Trump campaign. He writes: If ever there were an admission that taints the FBI's secret warrant to surveil Donald Trump's campaign, it sat buried for more than 2 1/2 years in the files of a high-ranking State Department official. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Kathleen Kavalec's written account of her Oct. 11, 2016, meeting with FBI informant Christopher Steele shows the Hillary Clinton campaign-funded British intelligence operative admitted that his research was political and facing an Election Day deadline. And that confession occurred 10 days before the FBI used Steele's now-discredited dossier to justify securing a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant to surveil former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page and the campaign's ties to Russia. Steele's client "is keen to see this information come to light prior to November 8," the date of the 2016 election, Kavalec wrote in a typed summary of her meeting with Steele and Tatyana Duran, a colleague from Steele's Orbis Security firm. The memos were unearthed a few days ago through open-records litigation by the conservative group Citizens United. And that confession occurred 10 days before the FBI used Steele's now-discredited dossier to justify securing a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant to surveil former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page and the campaign's ties to Russia. Steele's client "is keen to see this information come to light prior to November 8," the date of the 2016 election, Kavalec wrote in a typed summary of her meeting with Steele and Tatyana Duran, a colleague from Steele's Orbis Security firm. The memos were unearthed a few days ago through open-records litigation by the conservative group Citizens United. And it appears that the FISA Court was not the only entity lied to: Kavalec's notes do not appear to have been provided to the House Intelligence Committee during its Russia probe, according to former Chairman Devin Nunes (R-Calif.). "They tried to hide a lot of documents from us during our investigation, and it usually turns out there's a reason for it," Nunes told me. Senate and House Judiciary investigators told me they did not know about them, even though they investigated Steele's behavior in 2017-18. Bonchie at Red State notices: [T]he FBI claimed just ten days later in the Page warrant application that Steele had no knowledge of his money man's motivations. In other words, the FBI claimed that Steele did not know he was doing political opposition research or that the research was meant to interfere in the election. "Steele was approached by an identified U.S. person, who indicated that a U.S.-based law firm had hired the identified U.S. person to conduct research regarding (Trump's) ties to Russia." The footnote goes on to say that "the identified U.S. person never advised (Steele) as to the motivation behind the research into (Trump's) ties to Russia. The FBI speculates that the identified U.S. person was likely looking for information that could be used to discredit (Trump's) campaign." Does anyone see "Clinton" or "DNC" or "opposing presidential campaign" mentioned? Instead, the footnote is full of weasel words. The FBI "speculates" that he "was likely" looking for information that "could discredit" Trump. Drip, drip, drip. The biggest scandal in American political history is unwinding, day by day. With 544 days until the election, there is going to be a lot more scandal for voters to appreciate. In the Washington Post article "Israel, militants escalate clashes," published May 6, 2019, the title gives the reader the impression that Israel is escalating clashes with "militants." First, Hamas and (Palestinian) Islamic Jihad initiated the assault on Israel, to which Israel justly responded in defense. Hamas is the people's elected governing body in Gaza and also an internationally recognized terrorist organization. Islamic Jihad, which is also a terrorist organization, receives funding and arms from Iran and is known to collude with Hamas. Second, the subtitle goes on to express that the clash was the "Deadliest Fighting Since 2014 War" but does not point out that it was the deadliest for Israeli civilians, which is what should absolutely be mentioned in the title or subtitle. Not disclosing this fact upfront fails to alert the reader to the gravity of the assault on Israel, specifically Israel's civilians, which The Washington Post continues to overlook and dismiss. The reader is allowed to make initial assumptions based on the biased presentation by experienced journalists before he even reads the article, if he does at all. To the authors' credit, the tragic deaths of Israeli civilians are elucidated in the second paragraph of the article. However, following the statement acknowledging the four Israeli civilians violently killed by rocket fire from Gaza is the Palestinian casualty count, which, as presented, implies that Israel is responsible for all 23 dead, which is not the case. The reader is not informed some of the deceased Palestinians died as a result of Palestinian rocket fire until much later in the article, on page A12. The third paragraph focuses on Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and leaves the reader with the impression that Israel is the party continuing the aggression and will be responsible for any further escalation. This is the opposite of what is happening between Gaza and Israel. The simple fact is that Israel defended itself from continuous rocket attacks that escalated from Gaza. The article continues to focus on Israel's defensive response to a full-on assault by Gaza rather than the fact that Gaza initiated and continually assaulted Israel, which resulted in hundreds of injured Israeli civilians and four Israeli civilian deaths. Once again, a biased frame is presented to the reader. The authors even have the audacity to say, "Israel generally holds Hamas, which controls Gaza, responsible for any rocket fire from the area," implying that Israel is making inappropriate assumptions about holding Gaza responsible for the assault. Only as the article continues on page A12 is there a mention that Islamic Jihad instigated the violence, but again, there is no mention of that group being known to collude with Hamas and also receive assistance from Iran. Then the reader is directed to continue reading on page A12, referencing "GAZA" yet again, subtly leading the reader to feel that Israel is the problem and that the focus should be on Gaza. Sneaky psychology! The first thing the reader sees on page A12 in large print is a reference to Netanyahu preparing for the "next stages." But why is he having to prepare? Because Israel continues to be attacked! Such an important and critical fact to be conveniently left out again leads the reader to feel as though Israel is escalating the clash with Gaza. For all the criticism, mentioned and unmentioned, to be made regarding this article, the biggest is what was left hypocritically unarticulated. If the reverse occurred, there would be cries for an international investigation against Israel, yet the deplorable actions of Gaza against Israeli civilians are excused. The world needs to understand that hundreds of rockets fired from Gaza targeted Israeli civilians, not the Israeli military. Rockets fired from Gaza hit Israeli homes, children's schools, hospitals, and synagogues. In addition, Hamas and Islamic Jihad hid behind civilians in Gaza, using them as shields while firing at civilian, not military, targets in Israel. These are war crimes. This is what should have been reported! This is malignant negligence in journalism, and The Washington Post should have higher standards! Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang's Regular Press Conference on May 8, 2019 2019/05/08 At the invitation of Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov of the Russian Federation, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi will pay an official visit to Russia from May 12 to 13. Q: It has been reported that the appeal of the case involving Canadian citizen Schellenberg who was sentenced to death in January this year will take place on Thursday. Could you confirm that? Will Canadian officials be allowed at the trial? A: We have repeatedly stated our position on the Schellenberg case. China upholds rule of law. The judicial authorities try cases and guarantee the legal rights of individuals involved in relevant procedures according to law. As to the specifics on the case, I would refer you to the judicial authorities. Q: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that Iran would suspend some of its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as the United States has withdrawn from the deal. I wonder what is China's comment and if there were any official contacts with Iran? A: Regarding the JCPOA, a multilateral agreement endorsed by the UN Security Council, it should be implemented fully and effectively for its vital role in the international non-proliferation regime and peace and stability in the Middle East. China applauds Iran's faithful implementation of the JCPOA so far and firmly opposes US sanctions and so-called "long-arm jurisdiction" on Iran. We regret that the US moves have heightened tensions surrounding the Iranian nuclear issue. It is the shared responsibility of all parties to uphold and implement the JCPOA. We call on relevant sides to exercise restraint and step up dialogue to prevent a spiral of escalation of tensions. China will maintain communication with all parties concerned and continue to work toward upholding and implementing the agreement. At the same time, we will stand firm in safeguarding the legal and legitimate interests of Chinese enterprises. China has all along maintained close communication with all sides, including Iran, on issues relating to the JCPOA. As far as I know, Deputy Foreign Minister of Iran Araghchi today briefed relevant parties to the JCPOA, including China, in Tehran. Q: The US House of Representatives yesterday passed a bill reaffirming the US commitment to Taiwan, which will now presumably be sent to the Senate to be passed into law. Has China asked the US not to pass the bill? A: The bill is a grave violation of the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques and a gross interference in China's domestic affairs. China objects it resolutely and has lodged stern representations to the US side. We urge the US to stay committed to the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques by stopping Congress to review and pass the bill and properly handling Taiwan-related issues to prevent severe damages to bilateral cooperation in key areas and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Q: In yesterday's press conference you responded to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's comments on China's participation in Arctic affairs and refuted his accusation. We noticed that in his remarks, Secretary Pompeo also talked about a significant increase in China's carbon-dioxide emissions while claiming that the US is the world's leader in caring for the environment. Do you have any further comment on that? A: I responded yesterday to the groundless accusations from the US. I see no need to repeat that. Regarding climate change and environmental protection mentioned by the US, I'd like to emphasize that China's important role in the signing and entry into force of the Paris Agreement was highly acclaimed by the international community. On the other hand, the world knows clearly who has withdrawn from the Paris Agreement and obstructed international cooperation to tackle climate change. According to media reports, due to US disagreement with other members on climate change, the 11th Arctic Council ministerial meeting failed to issue a joint statement for the first time in the 23-year history of the council. China regrets that. Considering its unique geography and fragile ecology, the Arctic is more vulnerable to climate change and global warming. To properly address climate change is of vital importance to environmental protection and sustainable development in the Arctic. China is advancing ecological conservation and actively working with other countries on climate change. The emission reduction measures China took produced positive effects on the climate and ecological environment of the Arctic. We will continue to work with relevant sides to further consolidate political consensus, step up communication and cooperation and respond effectively to challenges posed by climate change to the Arctic. Q: You talked about State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Russia. Can you give us more details on the purpose and agenda items of his visit? A: Following the annual mutual visit mechanism between China and Russia, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi will pay an official visit to Russia. During this visit, he will meet with Russian leaders and hold talks with Foreign Minister Lavrov to compare notes on arrangements for interactions between our Presidents and joint activities to celebrate the 70th anniversary of bilateral ties and exchange views on international and regional hotspot issues of mutual concern. I believe this visit will give a strong boost to the implementation of the outcomes of the Beijing Summit between the two Presidents in April. It will help enhance our cooperation in various areas and step up strategic coordination in international affairs, thus contributing to greater progress in bilateral relations in this significant year. Q: A US Congress institution released a report claiming that if the revised draft of Hong Kong's Fugitive Ordinance is passed, it would provide a powerful legal tool to the central government, making Hong Kong more susceptible to coercion from the central government. What's China's response to it? A: Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China. Hong Kong affairs are completely China's domestic affairs. We stand firmly against any foreign attempt to interfere in Hong Kong affairs. Q: You took some questions on China-US trade talks yesterday. I have a follow-up on that. Previously China would resort to raising tariffs as retaliation to the US. Why is the change of strategy this time? A: I wonder how you arrived at that conclusion. I made it very clear when answering earlier questions that it is not the first time the US has made such threats. We have expressed our position and attitude repeatedly and they remain clear and unchanged. Q: What are the sticking points in China-US trade talks? What is China's agenda and what topics are expected to be covered? A: You must have missed the last few day's press conferences, as I have already answered many similar questions. My reply is that for specifics on the economic and trade consultations, I would refer you to the competent authority. What I can say is that we hope the US will work with China to meet each other halfway, accommodate each other's legitimate concerns and strive for a mutually beneficial agreement on the basis of mutual respect and equality. This is in line with the interests of both sides and is also the shared expectation of the international community. Q: Also a question on trade talks. The Americans have complained that China backtracks on some of what have been agreed, including changes to the text on intellectual property protection, technology transfer, etc. Can you confirm that? A: As I said earlier, for specifics on the economic and trade consultations, I would refer you to the competent authority who is best-positioned to answer your questions. I will go no further than state our position and attitude as a principled response. On what you termed as backtracking, let me repeat my answer yesterday. It is only natural to have differences in a negotiation, which, by definition, is a process of discussions. The Chinese side will not sidestep differences and is sincere in continuing consultations. Q: The European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini said that the International Contact Group discussed the decision to establish contacts with the Lima Group, the Caribbean Community countries, Cuba, China and Russia to help create an environment to resolve the political crisis in Venezuela. I wonder what is China's comment? A: On the Venezuela issue, China upholds the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations. We insist that this issue should be resolved through inclusive political dialogue and consultation under Venezuela's constitution between the government and the opposition independently. We stand against external interference and unilateral sanctions. China has noted the third meeting of the International Contact Group on Venezuela and values the remarks from the EU side. China, the EU and many other countries share important consensus on Venezuela. All support political settlement through inclusive dialogue and reject military intervention. None wishes to see the situation in Venezuela getting out of control, affecting peace and stability in the region. China will step up communication and work together in a constructive manner with the international community including the EU for the political settlement. This will serve the interests of the Venezuelan people and all parties. Q: Can you give us any information on when Vice Premier Liu He will arrive in Washington, when he will return and who will accompany him? A: The Commerce Ministry spokesperson has released relevant information yesterday. At the invitation of the US, Liu He, member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Vice Premier of the State Council and chief of the Chinese side of the China-US comprehensive economic dialogue, will visit the US for the 11th round of high-level economic and trade consultations from May 9 to 10. Q: The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission published a report yesterday on Hong Kong's proposed extradition bill. The report says the extradition bill would, if passed into law, increase the territory's susceptibility to Beijing's political and economic influence. Does China have any comment on these assertions? A: Like I said earlier, we firmly oppose any foreign interference in Hong Kong's affairs because they are entirely China's internal affairs. The commission you talked about is entrenched in bias towards China. Its so-called reports and comments are not even worth refuting. Q: One more follow-up question on Iran. You said that Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister informed ambassadors about its decision to not follow some of its obligations under the JCPOA. Some voices say that maybe the international community should reconsider and relaunch sanctions against Iran. What is China's comment? A: I just elaborated on China's position. Iran's faithful implementation of the JCPOA till now has been recognized by us all. Under current circumstances, it is the shared responsibility of all parties to uphold and implement the JCPOA. We call on relevant sides to exercise restraint and step up dialogue to prevent a spiral of escalation of tensions. China will maintain communication with all parties concerned and continue to work toward upholding and implementing the agreement. One of the announcements that might have passed you by during Google I/O 2019 is Project Mainline, but this is also one of those announcements that certainly shouldnt pass you by as it is security-related. Essentially, Google has now confirmed that it plans to utilize Project Mainline to deliver security-based updates to devices in a much faster fashion than ever before. This is unlikely to be in use for security updates as a whole, but instead elements (or modules as Google refers to them) of those updates that Google can, and deems important enough to roll out quickly. Advertisement In explaining this point, Google states were now able to update specific internal components within the OS itself and therefore they can be decoupled from a security update. One of the benefits of this approach is that Google can effectively remove third-party companies from the equation altogether. For example, prior to Project Mainline, Google would have to release a security update to its partners and then wait for those partners to roll it out to their respective devices via a main OS update. Now, Google is saying it can do this all from the Google Play Store in the same way an app update would be applied in general. Advertisement Google specifically draws on this parallel by stating, we plan to update Project Mainline modules in much the same way as app updates although in contrast to other apps, these module updates will be delivered by an update to the actual Google Play Store app. In doing this, the modules that are downloaded will then be able to be loaded the next time the phone boots up. Google also argues the updates themselves will be richer and inclusive of more fixes as the source code for these modules will be made available via the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). The benefits to the end user here are evident although Google also points out that Project Mainline will be equally beneficial to device-makers as well. As they will no longer need to focus on the entire security update, but can just focus on the key parts that are not included via the module updating method. Advertisement At present, Google has only confirmed this feature as part of Android Q and so there is currently no suggestion the feature will become available via older versions of Android. Something that seems highly unlikely considering the announcement indicates that going forward Androids Q will be the minimal requirement for Project Mainland. This was only one of many Android Q announcements that were made today during the developer-focused event and you can read up on some of the other main new Android Q features by clicking here. For those with a compatible device, Google also today confirmed the third beta preview of Android Q is now available to download or apply via the beta program. As well as announcing that the beta program also now supports more third-party devices. Advertisement In other words, more devices are now capable of receiving Android Q sooner, and those devices will also now be able to take advantage of this new modular approach to security updates. If you are looking for an additional reason to upgrade your Google Pixel 3 to the latest beta version of Android Q (besides a system-wide dark mode), then the navigation bar might be the one. Earlier today, Google released the third Android Q beta preview and with that version comes a return of three-button navigation. This is noteworthy for a couple of reasons. The first of which is Googles preference of gestures in Android Q. It is this very preference that saw Android Q move away from whats now referred to as the classic Android navigation in favor of the pill and its related gestures. Advertisement In fact, this latest version of Android Q also comes with an increase in gesture support further highlighting that Google preference. Therefore, the inclusion of the classic mode once again is contradictory to where Google wants to take Android going forward. The other noteworthy part of this, is this was even more of an issue for owners of the Google Pixel 3 and 3 XL smartphones. As those phones effectively launched the new gesture look and feel. Even though they launched on Android 9 Pie, Google did not offer the option of using buttons over gestures even though that is an option for pretty much any other phone running on Pie. In Googles eyes, the Pixel 3 represented the future. Advertisement This not only again confirms Googles commitment to gestures, but also highlights once again how this is a bit of a stepping back on those Google and Android principles. The problem with all of this for Google was a lot of users were unhappy with this directional change and still preferred to use the classic mode where they had button access to back, home and all apps, independently. This is likely why Google has made this change as it now at least offers users the option to go with the navigation style they most prefer even if, it means less people will use the one Google wants them to use in the first place. Advertisement For reference, the two-button navigation option (the pill) is still the default option and so users will need to manually go and set the three-button option in settings to restore the navigation back to its former classic glory. To do so head to Settings > System > Gestures > System navigation. At which point there will now be three options to choose from: Fully gestural navigation, two-button navigation and three-button navigation. Of course, it is always worth remembering that just because the classic navigation is back in fashion with this latest beta build, that does not mean it will inevitably be here to stay. This is, after all, a beta version and that means pretty much anything thats included is subject to final approval by Google before the consumer-ready version of Android Q comes through. Advertisement In other words, this could just as easily mean Google will take the option away again in one of the many beta previews that are still in the works. For now, though, classic navigation is back. Google is now in the process of making available the third developer preview of Android Q. The announcement on whats new with this release was made during the keynote presentation at Google I/O, the companys 2019 developer event. As per the announcement, the beta 3 preview of Android Q becomes officially available today. Those interested in self-applying the update can do so by downloading the image for the device in question and flashing it. Click here to go straight to the beta image page. Advertisement Alternatively, and more easily, interested device owners can sign up to be part of the beta program and have the update sent to their device via an OTA update in the same way all other OTA updates are usually received and applied. Click here for more information and/or to join the beta program. Those already signed up to the beta can expect the OTA update to become available within the next few hours. Users can manually check to see if the update is already available through the usual procedure Settings > Advanced > System Update and then hitting the Check for update tab. The arrival time of the update will vary, but we can confirm it has already started to make its way out to devices. It is worth noting that although the beta preview is usually associated with Googles own Pixel Phone line, the company did announce today a much wider level of third-party phone support with select models from OnePlus, Xiaomi, Sony, LG and others now eligible to sign up for the beta. Advertisement With this being the third beta preview, we are technically about half-way through the preview process as it is expected six previews will be made available before the main and final consumer-ready version of Android Q becomes available. These beta releases typically arrive on a monthly basis with the beta two preview the last one to arrive back at the start of April. It is expected the final consumer-ready version will launch in the third quarter of this year. Besides being the latest version of the beta, this is also a notable one for other reasons too. For example, there are some new features included with this update that will likely appeal to Android users, this includes a dedicated and system-wide dark theme which can be switched on or off easily through the use of a toggle in the settings. Advertisement While this is arguably the most headline feature included, the latest version of Android Q is full of other changes and additions too, including better security and privacy controls, greater use of Digital Wellbeing features, and even wider gesture support. You can read more about the latest Android Q beta features, as well as the wider third-party device support, by clicking here. Those who do opt to install this version of Android Q will want to keep in mind this is a beta version and so it is not expected to be a fully reliable or bug-free experience. That said, this is the third beta and so it should be far more reliable than the ones that came before it. When not harvesting online browsing data of nearly every person in the world in order to surround them with their content bubbles, content with being showered in advertising 24-7 in a highly invasive manner, all with the goal of increasing shareholder value and making yet another step toward a troublesome future threatening to take away some of the freedoms we have previously been taking for granted, Google likes to do some highly targeted good in order to make at least a few of its critics ambivalent about continuing to voice their perfectly legitimate concerns about allowing the American technology juggernaut into the country. Cynicism aside, its not the corporate beast known as Google or Alphabet that is primarily responsible for this small miracle but a handful of its researchers who have been focused on one thing and one thing only in recent times improving the accessibility of another thing we take for granted voice calls. Thats the short story behind Live Relay, a project Google Software Engineer Sapir Caduri introduced several hours back as part of the first day of the firms I/O 2019 conference, the latest edition of its annual gathering aimed at developers and hardware partners. If youd deem Live Relay an odd fit for an I/O launch no arguing there, it is. However, it appears Google is now positioning this yearly event as more of a catch-all happening that includes a little bit of everything. Its not like anyone thats anyone among tech media hasnt been attending it for years now, so the company apparently figured it might as well try to make the most of that attention for once, especially given how the days of exclusively positive media coverage of Google are long over. Advertisement Alright, no more digressions taking away from Live Relay, a project that does a wonderful job at reminding everyone how magical tech can be when used for good. Ms. Caduri, whos credited with developing and implementing the original idea behind the initiative, came up with a solution combining speech recognition with a text-to-speech service, as well as a speech-to-text one. Using a dedicated app, a user is able to call someone disadvantaged by having their phones relay their speech in writing, then waiting for the person on the other side to respond via a text message that gets sent back to the source while also being processed by another algorithm that vocalizes it for more convenience. While no references to DeepMinds amazing natural-language tech can be found among the publicly released Live Relay materials, the manner wherein Live Relay voices written messages appears to be pointing in that direction. On the other hand, Ms. Caduri, an Israeli-born graduate from the Tel Aviv University, did confirm the platform incorporates Smart Compose and Smart Reply, a pair of self-explanatory features meant to make the process of responding to a transcribed call as painless as possible. Yes. those are the very same capabilities previously integrated into the Gmail and its controversially discontinued counterpart Inbox. As an added bonus and contrary to Googles general policy regarding free mobile products, Live Relay isnt monetized and doesnt collect personal information, with all of your commands being processed locally, i.e. never being as much as pointed in the direction of the cloud. In other words, it functions via a traditional telephone connection, so it even supports scenarios wherein one conversation participant is using a landline (depending on the model). Advertisement Unfortunately, Live Relay still isnt widely available, with Ms. Caduri only confirming the team running the project will continue experimenting as it observes the curious contraption over time. Google has apparently already toyed with the idea of a foldable Pixel phone. More accurately, it is already prototyping its own foldable phone. Thats not to say, one will be released, however, as the company was quick to point out that it works on many different technologies and forms. This comes from a new report out of CNET with the comments provided ahead of Google I/O 2019 by Googles Vice President of Product Management, Mario Queiroz. Advertisement According to those comments, in spite of Google having been prototyping a foldable phone for a long time, it is not quite ready to bring a product like that to market. In fact, Google does not seem to be entirely convinced it is a product worth bringing to market in the first place. At least, not yet. One of the reasons given for this is that foldable phones currently do not do much more than non-foldable phones do. Yes, they are larger and that larger size will appeal to some buyers, but Google argues the form is not quite wow enough for the company to heavily invest in bringing a foldable phone to market. Advertisement Of course, this is something that Google is working on at the software level as the newer version of Android is already showing support for the foldable form and it is expected more apps will look to utilize the design in the future. Whether that greater support arriving will prove to be enough to entice Google into the market remains to be seen, although based on the comments provided it would seem that Google is not particularly keen to lead the market down this road, and would prefer others to do that instead. This is not a bad approach as so far the foldable phone market is looking like a contentious one. A few companies have already voiced their interest in releasing products, and Huawei and Samsung have both already announced their solutions. In Samsungs case this did not go so well considering it had to almost immediately delay the launch due to a number of reviewers encountering design faults with units. Advertisement Aspects like that will further push consumers away from purchasing a foldable phone and especially as both Huawei and Samsungs options are priced extremely high. Thats not necessarily high for foldable phones, but high for phones in general. Speaking of which, increasing the price of the products it offers is also something thats probably not that appealing to Google at the moment. After all, todays Googles event was headlined by the arrival of the Pixel 3a line. Unlike the standard Pixel series of smartphones, the Pixel 3a line is designed to offer a Pixel experience without using having to pay a premium Pixel price. Its an affordable Pixel phone and if other current reports are to be believed, Google seems keen on sticking with the affordable sector going forward. Advertisement Therefore, having a premium device and an affordable phone, is likely to be exactly where Google wants to be for the time being. At least while it figures out how to offer a wow element to a foldable phone, and that may take some time. The Motorola Moto E6 has just surfaced, and considering the timing of this leak, this phone may join the likes of the Motorola One Vision and launch on May 15. Well talk more about that in a minute. The Moto E6 will be a direct successor to the Moto E5, Motorolas budget smartphone. This phone is actually expected to become Motorolas most affordable handset this year, and thanks to this leak, we pretty much know what to expect in the design department. As you can see, the phone will sport a single camera on the back, while an LED flash will be located right below that sensor Motorolas logo will sit on the back of the phone, though it seems like it wont double as a fingerprint scanner. Advertisement The phone will be made out of plastic, it seems, we cannot be sure, but considering that it will be extremely affordable, and the looks of this render, its highly likely. All of its physical keys will sit on the right, including the volume up, volume down, and power / lock buttons. Motorolas branding will sit below the display, on a rather thick bezel. The phone will also sport bezels above the display, and on its sides, which is not surprising considering it will be extremely affordable. According to the source, the phone will have a removable backplate, which is yet another indication that it will be made out of plastic. It will support storage expansion via a microSD card, and a 3.5mm headphone jack will be placed on the top of the device. A microUSB port will sit on the bottom of the device, notes the source. Advertisement The phone is expected to feature a 5.45-inch HD+ MaxVision display with an 18:9 display aspect ratio. The Snapdragon 430 will probably fuel the device, while the Moto E6 is expected to pack in 2GB of RAM and 16GB / 32GB of storage. A 13-megapixel camera will sit on the back of this phone, while a 5-megapixel unit will be included on the phones front side. Android 9 Pie will come pre-installed on this device, and that is pretty much all the info that we have as far as specs are concerned. Motorola had scheduled a press conference in Sao Paulo, Brazil, for May 15, and during that event, the Motorola One Vision is expected to arrive. Well, considering that the Moto E6 also appeared now, that phone will probably make an appearance at that event as well, which is not surprising as Motorola rarely announces a single phone during such events. Advertisement The Moto E6 will not be an Android One smartphone, like the Moto One Vision, but it will be considerably more affordable than the Moto One Vision, thats for sure. We do not have any availability info for the Moto E6 just yet, but chances are Motorola will aim developing markets with that phone, while it will become available in Brazil first, most probably. Other parts of South America are expected to get the phone soon as well, but Motorola is expected to share more detailed info on May 15. The risk of passing on the HIV virus is completely eliminated by an HIV treatment regimen, a landmark study has shown, in a significant boost to the prospects of ending the AIDS pandemic. A study of nearly 1,000 gay male couples with one partner with HIV who took antiretroviral therapy (ART) found no new cases of transmission to the HIV-negative partner during sex without a condom. Over the course of the eight-year study, 15 men were infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. But genetic tests showed that the transmissions were a result of the HIV-negative men having sexual relations with someone other than their regular partner. The report, published in medical journal The Lancet, shows that using ART to suppress the HIV virus to undetectable levels renders it incapable of transmission during sex, according to the researchers. If everyone in the world with HIV knew their status and had access to effective treatment, no new cases would occur, the study suggests. Alison Rodger, a professor at University College London who co-led the research, told CNN's Hala Gorani that if everyone in the world had access to the right treatment, the virus could be eliminated. "We've got a way to go to get people easier access to testing and treatment, but if we could get global coverage, then we could really make headway in eliminating the virus," she said. "It was such a powerful result that we thought we just improve the quality of life for people with HIV." Rodger said what the study shows is that the risk of transmission is zero with ART treatment "and that's quite new and important. An earlier study showed that the drugs protected heterosexual couples in which one partner was HIV-positive; the latest research completes the picture, Rodger said. "The question has been definitively answered; there is no need for further research. It's not often we get to say that. Finding ways to get the knowledge in practice is what we need to do next." There was still considerable work to be done to ensure that everyone who has HIV can access testing and treatment, she added. Other experts welcomed the results. "These important results serve to inspire and challenge us. Timely identification of HIV-infected people and provision of effective treatment lead to near normal health and lifespan and virtual elimination of the risk of HIV transmission," Myron S. Cohen, a professor at the UNC Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases at Chapel Hill in North Carolina, who conducted the study of heterosexual couples, wrote in a commentary in The Lancet. But he cautioned that stigma, homophobia and other social forces have meant that getting tested for HIV and accessing treatment is not always possible, particularly for men who have sex with men. Additionally, diagnosis of HIV in the early stages of the infection is still challenging, compromising treatment as a prevention strategy, Cohen said. During his February State of the Union address, President Donald Trump announced an ambitious plan to eliminate HIV transmissions in the United States in the next 10 years. Central to Trump's multiagency initiative is the early diagnosis, prevention and treatment of HIV. While health experts applauded Trump's effort, many have also criticized the White House for cutting funding for HIV/AIDS programs in the past. Millions of dollars were shifted away from HIV/AIDS prevention programs last year. In March, Trump requested $291 million for the project in his 2020 budget, though this sum is not guaranteed. At the same time, he proposed slashing funding to HIV programs through the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) by $1.35 billion overall, according to an analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation, a nonprofit group that researches health care and other issues. Still, Cohen expressed optimism about HIV treatment, underlining that antiretroviral drugs have become more effective, reliable, durable, easier to take, well-tolerated and much less expensive. "The results of the ... study provide yet one more catalyst for a universal test-and-treat strategy to provide the full benefits of antiretroviral drugs. This and other strategies continue to push us toward the end of AIDS." The Motorola One Vision has leaked a couple of times thus far, and a new render has just appeared on Mobielkopen. This time around, you can check out the blue variant of the device, while the source also added a higher-res image of the copper-color option. As you can see, the Motorola One Vision will be made out of metal and glass, and it will sport two cameras on the back. Those two cameras will be vertically-aligned, and a fingerprint scanner will also sit on the back of this phone. The phones rear-facing cameras will protrude on the back quite a bit, while a dual-LED flash will sit below those two cameras. Android One logo will also be included on the back of this phone, as this phone will be a part of Googles Android One project, in other words, it will ship with stock Android. Advertisement Motorolas logo will also be a part of the package, and it will be imprinted on the phones fingerprint scanner. The back side of the phone will be curved, while the device will sport a flat display. A display camera hole will be included in the top-left corner of the phones display, while the phone will include a chin below the display. The phones volume up, volume down, and power / lock keys are included on the right, while the device does not include a 3.5mm headphone jack, it seems. A Type-C port and the devices loudspeaker will sit on the bottom of this phone. The phone is rumored to ship with a 48-megapixel main camera on the back (and that is even written on the back fo the device), and that camera will utilize Quad Pixel technology, and an f/1.7 aperture lens. OIS will be a part of the package as well. Advertisement The device will sport a 6.2-inch fullHD+ display, and the device is actually rumored to sport a 21:9 display aspect ratio, like the Xperia 1, though well see if theres any truth there. The Motorola One Vision will include 3GB / 4GB of RAM, along with 32G / 64GB / 128GB of storage, while a 3,500mAh battery will also be a part of the package. This will be Motorolas first smartphone with one of Samsungs processors, as the device is rumored to ship with the Exynos 9610 64-bit octa-core processor, which is Samsungs mid-range chip. This handset is also known as the Motorola P40, as it will be sold in China under that name. Do note that the Motorola P40 will not ship with stock Android, it will not be a part of Googles Android One project. Advertisement Motorola had already teased a press conference for May 15, a press conference that will be hosted in Sao Paulo, Brazil. It is quite possible that the company is planning to announce the Motorola One Vision during that event, but we cannot know for sure. If that ends up being the case, the phone will probably launch in Brazil first, after which it will hit a number of other countries. The phone is expected to reach both the US and Europe at some point, but well see if that will happen, as Motorola is expected to share more info about the phones availability as soon as it launches. Following the Q1 2019 global smartphone report by IHS Markit, its revealed that sales overall are struggling, but Huawei continues to grow. Global shipments tallied up to 323.9 million so far in 2019, compared to 345.6 million in Q1 2018, which equates to a 6.9-percent YoY loss. The Chinese electronics company Huawei experienced a 50-percent growth YoY in Q1 2019 and shipped 59.1 million devices. This first quarter success is almost on par with the companys Q1 2018 sales of 60.5 million units moved. With the starving smartphone market, Huawei is only one of three OEMs to show any form of growth in the first quarter of 2019. Samsung still remains the global leader in smartphone shipments; however, it experienced a 9-percent YoY loss in Q1 2019. The company still shipped 70.8 million units, which gave it a little breathing room ahead of Huawei and other brands. Much of the data seems to show that whatever part of the market Samsung is losing, Huawei is snatching up and running away with. Advertisement Apple, another company gunning for the top spot, struggled even further than Samsung. It only shipped 43.8 million iPhones in 2019 compared to 52.2 million in the first quarter of 2018. Overall, Apple experienced a YoY loss of 16-percent, continuing on its loss from Q4 of 2018. Even with Samsung and Apples losses, Korean manufacturer LG experienced the greatest single YoY decline of 24-percent. The company only shipped 8.6 million smartphones, which was also on the lower end. Other companies to note are Vivo and Tecno, who were among the growing this pasts quarter. Vivo shipped 24.3 million units and was blessed with a 14-percent YoY growth. Tecnos growth was less significant; however, it still shipped 3.8 million devices and grew 5-percent. Advertisement With the results from Q1 2019 in, its time to look at trends in the market. With Huawei, Vivo, and Tecno all experiencing growth, it appears that cheaper smartphones are selling more. Huawei has a sub-brand HONOR that sells wallet-friendly devices. Similarly, much of Vivos products are marketed at a cheaper price point, and Hong Kong-based company Tecno Mobile is popular in India and sells its smartphones at a budget price as well. These three companies have a market space in the budget area, which is likely why they all experienced growth to some degree. Apple, however, only manufactures premium smartphones with the cheapest iPhone retailing at $750. Its quite possible that Apple is experiencing such a loss due to it only offering expensive devices. Samsung is similar to Apple in that many of its products are at the premium price point such as the Galaxy S and Galaxy Note series. The difference with Samsung, however, is that it also produces a budget line of phones as well. What previously was the Galaxy J series is now the Galaxy A series. Samsung has recently updated this lineup to keep up with the modern competition and still maintain a lower price. Advertisement Other companies such as Google are trying to get in on the budget smartphone game. The frequently leaked Pixel 3a and 3a XL are rumored to be announced at this weeks IO conference. Google admitted that the Pixel 3 series did not sell well, and the company believes the loss in sales was due to premium-priced phones in general not selling as well. The time for smartphones is getting more and more exciting by the day. Only time will tell whether expensive, folding phones will be the future, or whether cheaper phones with better value will take the reigns. Qualcomm on Tuesday vowed to help make Android Q fully ready for supporting the fifth generation of mobile networks, i.e. powering smartphones, tablets, and potentially a wide variety of other devices designed to take advantage of the next major wireless connectivity standard thats now already flirting with consumer-grade use cases, at least on an experimental basis. The announcement made in the opening minutes of Google I/O 2019, the latest edition of the annual developer conference in California, with Qualcomm clarifying its primarily planning to support Googles ambitions in the wireless segment by contributing to the official application programming interfaces (APIs) it developed for Android Q. Without getting too technical, APIs are basically tools independent developers largely rely on to utilize experimental technologies they might not be too familiar with to implement into their solutions otherwise or simply speed up development by a significant margin. By contributing to the source code of Googles Android project (yet again), Qualcomm is trying to remove at least a portion of the guessing aspect of the 5G equation as far as original equipment manufacturers are concerned, that is. Advertisement Qualcomm isnt lending a coding hand to Google out of the goodness of its corporate heart; the San Diego, California-based chipmaker sees the current silicon scarce as an opportunity to ensure massive domestic success for its latest and greatest Snapdragon 855 platform. Originally announced in two variants, the top Snapdragon 855 model will utilize the Snapdragon X50 modem, a new module designed to deliver a relatively consistent stream of information to a compatible source, beating existing speeds by up to a double-digit factor. Qualcomm already expressed a firm belief in the Snapdragon 855, repeatedly predicting pretty much every first-generation 5G smartphone from the Android segment will be using some variant of its newest system-on-chip. While most industry watchers and analysts primarily see the new wireless standard as a revolutionary opportunity, or at the very least an occasion that history will remember due to its (hopefully positive) impact on the global economy, Qualcomms current plan is to get the basics right and leverage 5G to deliver visible improvements to existing technologies such as augmented reality and streaming before moving on to more bleeding-edge solutions. Qualcomm and Google promised more details on their collaboration will be announced over the course of the newly started conference. Some basic documentation is already available on the Android Developer portal. The two juggernauts are bound to further deepen their bond as the 5G era progresses, with both Snapdragon and Android currently appearing as close to invincible in their respective segments as two technologies can be. A lack of competition certainly isnt great news for consumers, though the diversified nature of Googles mobile operating system and the comparable versatility of Qualcomms chips means that whatever happens next, its likely to be far from the worst-case scenario for the future of the mobile world. Advertisement All national carriers in the United States are already aggressively pursuing 5G, with the latest analyses suggesting T-Mobile will end up winning the domestic wireless race, largely thanks to its 600MHz holdings, even if its proposed merger with Sprint doesnt go through. Its been 10 years since the Florida Workplace Competitive Act was first introduced into the state legislature. Since then its received one committee hearing in 2015 despite attracting more and more co-sponsors each year. In early April, Equality Florida, the bills main supporter, announced FWCA had achieved a record level of support with 73 legislators backing the bill, including many Republicans. Floridians across party lines and across the state strongly support equal rights, and we are confident that this legislation would pass if leadership allowed a floor vote, said Equality Florida Public Policy Director Jon Harris Maurer, in a press release. Governor DeSantis, Speaker Oliva, and President Galvano must let the state follow the will of Floridians and join the twenty other states that have these LGBTQ protections in housing, employment, and public accommodations. Except thats not what happened. Instead, this years bill fared no better than most of the other years, not even receiving a committee hearing. Its that lack of legislative progress that prompted SAVE and Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, among others, to try a different approach: introducing a limited non-discrimination bill focused only on employment the Florida Inclusion Workforce Act. And they found a big name to sponsor their bill State Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota), a Trump-supporting Republican, who also happens to be the chair of the Republican Party of Florida. Since the Florida legislature and governors mansion are controlled by Republicans, it made sense to them to recruit a conservative to lead the charge for equality. Almost immediately though the new bill faced a fierce backlash from progressives and Equality Florida. They attacked the bill, saying it was anti-trans and would set the LGBT rights movement back in Florida. It didnt take long before the religious right also weighed in on the bill, blasting it and Gruters. If passed, this bill will be used as a weapon to punish Christians for simply acting out their faith as small businessmen or private individuals, John Stemberger, president of the anti-LGBT Florida Family Policy Council, said in a prepared statement. No state Republican Party chairman in the history of America has ever supported a bill this dangerous and irresponsible. Gruters is totally out of step with the base of the GOP, state legislative leadership, Governor DeSantis agenda, the Republican President of the United States and even the most recent U.S. Supreme Court opinion on similar statutes. Stemberger called for Gruters resignation as the chair of the Party. Meanwhile, FFPC did not even bother to address the Florida Workplace Competitive Act with a press release even though that bill would have gone much further protecting LGBT people by including housing and public accommodations. Florida Politics publisher Peter Schorsch summed up FCWA like this. The Florida Competes coalition, led by Equality Florida, was a bust. Instead of settling for a good compromise bill, they went all or nothing and lost, so workplace protections for LGBT+ workers will have to wait yet another year, Schorsch wrote in his recap of this years legislative session. Dont blame Joe Gruters Florida Inclusive Workforce Act (SB 438), which would have been a win, no matter how you cut it. Half a loaf is better than no loaf, but progressives who want to throw self-serving bombs and fundraise off it dont help the cause. Nadine Smith, executive director of Equality Florida, sounded hopeful months ago when FWCA was introduced, going so far as to say Gov. Ron DeSantis might sign the bill. He has done some things [to] surprise people. We should not write him off, she said at the time. She also pointed out that the LGBT movement has been making progress in deep red territory in Florida in places like Jacksonville and Kissimmee. But now that the bill is dead she is blaming the Republican leadership in the legislature, saying: The Florida Competitive Workforce Act continues to draw strong bipartisan support. The bill which would simply add sexual orientation and gender identity to state civil rights law was one of the most cosponsored bills this session yet leadership refused to allow a hearing Speaker Olivia started session by saying that debate should lean on the strength of arguments but instead leadership has silenced the scores of legislators supporting this bill, the business and faith communities backing this this bill, and the millions of Floridians who support comprehensive nondiscrimination protections for the LGBTQ community. And according to Florida Politics, Gruters took tremendous heat filing the bill. Right now, the Sarasota Republican doesnt sound anxious to take up the bill again. Gruters told Florida Politics: But the good news is the U.S. Supreme Court is taking up the bill. Hes referring to the case that SCOTUS recently took up that will consider whether Title IX protections prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. If they rule in favor it would take care of the workplace protections. Marysville, CA (95901) Today Cloudy skies with periods of rain late. Low 46F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Higher wind gusts possible.. Tonight Cloudy skies with periods of rain late. Low 46F. Winds SSE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Higher wind gusts possible. The companies, hailing from the USA, Germany and the UK, were selected from the pool of seven participant teams that worked with Emirates through DFA for nine weeks between March and May 2019. The MoUs were signed by Adel Al Redha, Emirates executive vice president and chief operations officer and by representatives from the shortlisted companies - Opinsta (UK), Predapp (Germany) and Verusen (USA). The DFA programme builds on Dubais position as a leader in stimulating innovation and creativity by bringing the best of innovative start-ups from around the world to work with corporate entities and government agencies in Dubai. Emirates joined the DFA programme in 2017. In what was a first earlier this year, Emirates and the Dubai Future Foundation announced that all the teams participating in the sixth cohort of the DFA programme would be dedicated to addressing three challenges set forth by Emirates in the domains of B2B procurement, seamless customer experience, and an integrated system for crew duty travel. The teams from Cohort 6 of the DFA programme worked with stakeholders from Emirates to map out requirements, refine their proposals and develop prototype solutions. Opinsta, Predapp and Verusen were chosen based on the fit of their proposed solutions, and broader application and scalability within Emirates. Adel Al Redha, Emirates executive vice president and chief operations officer said: Over the course of nine weeks, the interactions between the teams at Emirates as well as the participants of Cohort 6 of the Dubai Future Accelerators programme have resulted in a number of options we can explore to address the challenges we had defined. All the participating teams were actively engaged in the challenge and were able to gain considerable insights into the functioning of the worlds largest international airline in the areas outlined in the challenges. This by itself has sparked off a number of ideas for further innovation both within and outside of the aviation industry. Even though all the proposals were interesting, we signed MoUs with three shortlisted companies to explore their solutions in depth and evaluate the outcomes to provide our customers a better experience and implement more efficient process, he added. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO at Dubai Future Foundation said: What we are witnessing here is the advancement of the next wave in aviation innovation led by the UAE government by adopting and testing emerging technologies, and reiterating once again Dubais role in shaping the future of humanity. The MoUs signed today are the outcome of DFAs offering of an ideal setting for Emirates along with the brightest and most innovative minds, to work hand in hand in finding transformative solutions to key challenges in the aviation industry, he added. Hong Kong: James Lau visits London Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury James Lau has begun his visit to London by attending the UK-Hong Kong Financial Dialogue 2019. Speaking at the dialogues forum, Mr Lau said Hong Kong, being the most international city in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, is well positioned to build on its role as an international financial centre to be the gateway to the bay area for British and international financial services firms. He noted the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area further recognises and supports the city's status as an international financial centre, global offshore renminbi business hub, international asset management and risk management centre. With enhanced interconnectivity, demand for cross-boundary financial services would increase and hence opportunities for the industry, and Hong Kong welcomes British firms to make use of its financial strengths to tap into the huge Greater Bay Area market, Mr Lau added. In a meeting with UK Economic Secretary to the Treasury John Glen prior to the dialogue, Mr Lau highlighted the vast opportunities brought about by strengthened Hong Kong-UK co-operation in areas including green finance, fintech, the Belt & Road Initiative and the Greater Bay Area. He also addressed the Hong Kong Association at a luncheon and visited Ebury, a London-based fintech company which established an office in Hong Kong last year. Mr Lau called on Acting Chinese Ambassador to the UK Chen Wen and attended a reception for the UK-Hong Kong Financial Dialogue 2019 hosted by the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, London. This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Following worldwide backlash and celebrity-led boycotts, Bruneis leader has said the nation will not impose the death penalty for having gay sex. Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said in a televised speech Sunday that he will prohibit the death penalty, according to CNN. The sultan also said the public misconstrued the laws, which caused apprehension. Bolkiah said despite his announcement on capital punishment, he stands by the roll out of the Islamic laws. "Both the common law and the Syariah law aim to ensure peace and harmony of the country. They are also crucial in protecting the morality and decency of the public as well as respecting the privacy of individuals," he said. Still, LGBT people in Brunei are saying there is nothing that can stop the government from reinstating the death penalty, and they are not yet safe. The untitled project that stars Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff, Vaani Kapoor is under the working title Fighters 2. Filmmaker Siddharth Anand of Bang Bang! fame is going at his next project in blitzkrieg fashion. The untitled project that stars Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff and Vaani Kapoor is currently under the working title Fighters 2, and is slated to have an October release this year. Hence, theres no doubt that the filmmaker is all amped up as the shooting is already underway in Mumbai. The one-month long shooting will be held at different locations, including in the studios, Film City and Mud Island. While not much is known about the movie, our source close to the development of the film informs that Tiger Shroff plays a subordinate role to Hrithiks character and Vaani is the love-interest of the former. Apart from this, the source also talks about the key developments of the film, including Hrithiks character. The shoot that is being canned here in Mumbai studio for almost a week is all about air combat. Hrithiks role holds a pivotal rank in the Indian army. He is traveling on this plane with a huge army. The question is, what happens to his plane? Who attacks him? Will he manage to get off the plane with the help of a parachute? This is a long schedule and at the moment, Hrithik is the only actor shooting with his army, reveals the source. Additionally, the source could not resist revealing who is essaying the antagonist in the movie. Actually, Ashutosh Rana plays the villain in the film. So you guys will need to wait and watch why Ashutosh and Hrithik stand opposite each other, he reveals. In addition to the action sequences, the movie will also have dance-numbers. There is going to be a sexy peppy dance number in which Tiger Shroff will participate. Yeh paani mein bhi shoot hoga (It will also be shot under-water). There will be a short break of about two days before embarking on this song and dance number in a resort at Mud Island, concludes our source. The Union government is already making a road map to stop water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan: Gadkari. Amritsar: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari warned Pakistan on Wednesday that India will not hesitate to stop water of rivers flowing to that country if Islamabad does not end its support to terrorism. "The Union government is already making a road map to stop water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan," he said. Gadkari was speaking while campaigning for Amritsar BJP candidate Hardeep Puri. The minister said that the government is planning to build six water dams in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and this step would solve the water problem enormously. There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the BJP leader said. He said that the excess water will be given to Punjab and Haryana to address shortage in agriculture. On river water distribution between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, he said that the issue has to be sorted out without disturbing the water available to Punjab. Elaborating on the development work undertaken during the BJP-led NDA rule, he said that the Modi Government did what was not done in the last five decades. He said that the government was planning to begin double decker air bus service in six cities, including Amritsar. In order to promote industry and business Union, the government was planning to build Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway which would reduce the journey time by four hours between Amritsar and Delhi. Graham Launches Decision America Northeast Tour Seven-city tour begins May 19 in Portland, Maine, with prayer, live music and life-changing message of hope NEWS PROVIDED BY Billy Graham Evangelistic Association May 7, 2019 CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 7, 2019 /Standard Newswire/ -- At a time when people across America are filled with uncertainty, Franklin Graham wants to offer a message of hope to people in the northeast region of the United States. He will also invite them to join him in prayer, asking God to heal the issues that are plaguing our country. "Maine is among the top 10 states in the country with opioid-related deaths," said Bob Emrich, a pastor in Plymouth, Maine. "It's no wonder people have no peace and no hope and are drawn to anything that will smother or dull the pain and despair of a dreary life. Hopelessness is the primary cause of the opioid crisis." On May 19, Graham will launch Decision America Northeast Tour in Portland. The festive, family-friendly event begins at 7:30 p.m. at Cumberland County Fairgrounds. Following the launch in Portland, the tour will continue across the northeast with events in Burlington, Vt.; Manchester, N.H.; Springfield, Mass.; East Providence, R.I.; Bridgeport, Conn.; and Syracuse, N.Y. "We need a spiritual revivalan awakening across this country," said Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Graham will bring a message of hope from God's Word each night. "We all face crossroads in our livesmoments when we need to make important decisions," said Graham. "Through this event, people will have the opportunity to make a decision that can impact their lives not only now but for eternity." Popular Grammy-nominated music artist Crowder is also traveling with Graham on the Northeast Tour and will be performing live at each event. Graham and Crowder just completed the Graham Tour in Australia where tens of thousands of people attended seven events in six cities. The Decision America Northeast Tour is free and everyone is invited to attend. Graham started Decision America in 2016 when he held events in all 50 state capitals. He continued to tour in 2017 by traveling to 11 cities across Tennessee and Texas. Then in 2018, he toured the west coast, visiting 17 cities in California, Oregon and Washington. To learn more about the Decision America Northeast Tour, visit DecisionNortheast.com. DATES AND LOCATIONS FOR DECISION AMERICA NORTHEAST TOUR Portland, Maine (May 19) Burlington, Vt. (May 21) Manchester, N.H. (May 23) Springfield, Mass. (May 25) East Providence, R.I. (May 26) Bridgeport, Conn. (May 28) Syracuse, N.Y. (May 30) MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES Interviews with Franklin Graham Interviews with people attending events Video of event (audio connections available) SOURCE: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association CONTACT: Mark Barber, 828-386-5803 Online Newsroom PM Modi had commented during an election speech that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhis life had ended as Bhrastachari (corrupt) Number 1. Ambala/New Delhi/ Midnapore: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Tuesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his comments against her father Rajiv Gandhi and said that the same kind of arrogance caused the downfall of Duryodhan. Likening the Prime Minister to the main villain of the epic Mahabharata, the Congress leader also warned that the country has never forgiven arrogance. They insult my family when they dont get any other issue. This country has never forgiven arrogance. History is proof of this. Mahabharat is also proof of this. This kind of arrogance was in Duryodhan too. When Lord Krishna went to him and put the reality in front of him and tried to talk to him, he tried to capture Lord Krishna too, said at a rally in Haryanas Ambala where she was campaigning for the party candidate and former UPA minister Kumari Selja. Prime Minister Modi had commented during an election speech that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhis life had ended as Bhrastachari (corrupt) Number 1. To reinforce her point, Ms Gandh recited lines from Krishna Ki Chetawani (The Warning of Krishna), a poem by Ramdhari Singh Dinkar: Jab naash manuj par chaata hai, pehle vivek mar jata hai (When doom looms, first thing a human loses is the ability to discern right from wrong). Mrs Vadra said the BJP and its leaders do not highlight issues that are important and do not talk about what they have actually done in the last five years but seek votes in the name of martyrs or insult those from her family who sacrificed their lives. They never fulfil the promises they make at election time, instead they either seek votes in the name of martyrs or insult the martyr members of my family, she said. Ms Gandhi added that if the Prime Minister had the courage, he should fight Lok Sabha elections on development, jobs, farmers and womens safety. On Monday, PM Modi had dared the Congress to fight the elections on Rajiv Gandhis image. Reacting to Ms Gandhis comments, BJP president Amit Shah said May 23 will decide whether the PM is Duryodhan or Arjun (the protagonist of Mahabharata). Hitting back, Mr Shah, who was addressing a rally in Midnapore, West Bengal, said, Priyanka Gandhi has compared Modiji with Duryodhan. People of the country will decide who is Duryadhan and who is Arjun on May 23. Priyankaji, do not worry, people will tell you whether Modiji is Duryodan or Arjun. Mr Shah claimed that Opposition leaders, including from the Congress, have abused and insulted Mr Modi more than 51 times in the run-up to the 2019 elections. This election is about achievements of the BJP-led Central government. But to hide their failures, they try to divert the attention of people of country, Ms Gandhi had said at the rally, and added that the people of the country are wise. You cannot mislead the people. The people of this country make every leader answerable and they will make you answerable as well, she said. Ms Gandhi said that the Prime Minister should face the people and tell them what he has done for them over the past five years and what he plans to do in the future. You are the PM, you are a big leader of the BJP, you should understand this. Otherwise the people will teach you a lesson, she said. Reacting to Opposition leaders comments against Mr Modi, Mr Shah said, Congress leaders like Pawan Khera compared Modiji with Osama Bin Laden, Vijayashanthi termed him a terrorist, Mallikarjuna Kharge called him Hitler, while Sanjay Nirupam ridiculed him as a village dweller. Are these not insults to a Prime Minister?...If a former Prime Minister is insulted, the Congress leaders get shaken, but when the present Prime Minister is insulted they do not utter a word of protest. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. Naidu will be meeting WB CM and TMC chief Mamata Banerjee apart from attending her rallies on Wednesday and Thursday. The Andhra Pradesh CM was in Delhi to attend the Supreme Court hearing on a petition filed by the Opposition parties to review its judgment rejecting 50 per cent random physical verification of EVMs using VVPATs. (Photo: PTI | File) New Delhi: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu Wednesday met Congress President Rahul Gandhi and discussed plans to hold a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21, two days ahead of Lok Sabha results to chalk out a post-poll alliance. Naidu met Gandhi before heading out to West Bengal to attend public rallies in support of the ruling Trinamool Congress in the state, sources said. In a brief meeting, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is believed to have discussed the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue, voting percentage in the recently held five phases polling besides the Andhra Assembly election developments, the sources said. The sources said Naidu and Gandhi also discussed the post-poll scenario and more or less agreed to call a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21. The Lok Sabha elections are being held in seven phases. So far, polling in five phases are over and the counting of votes will be on May 23. Naidu will be meeting West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee apart from attending her rallies on Wednesday and Thursday. The Andhra Pradesh CM was in Delhi to attend the Supreme Court hearing on a petition filed by the Opposition parties to review its judgment rejecting 50 per cent random physical verification of EVMs using VVPATs. The apex court dismissed the petition following which the parties again met the Election Commission to press their demand. Foreign origin cigarettes, gold, red sanders and endangered shells were seized over the last 6 days in different cases. Foreign cigarettes, which are prohibited for import and sale under the Customs act, were seized from Chennai port on May 2. The cigarettes, concealed in cartons, were declared as diapers. (Photo: File I Representational) Chennai: Foreign origin cigarettes and gold worth Rs 7.11 crore besides Red sanders and endangered shells were seized over the last six days in different cases and nine people arrested in this connection, Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials said here Wednesday. DRI sleuths seized 7.9 kg of gold worth Rs 2.61 crore from two passengers who arrived from Assam at the Chennai Egmore Railway Station Wednesday. The duo allegedly smuggled the gold across the India-Myanmar border by concealing it in specially made pockets stitched to their clothes, a DRI release said. Foreign cigarettes, which are prohibited for import and sale under the Customs act, were seized from Chennai port on May 2. The cigarettes, concealed in cartons, were declared as diapers. About 30 lakh cigarettes worth Rs 4.5 crore were seized, the release said. In another incident, DRI officials intercepted six passengers bound for Singapore from Chennai airport and recovered 180 kg of 352 large shells. The shells belong to endangered marine species 'Turbo marmoratus' listed in the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. In another case, 14 tons of Red sanders were recovered at Chennai Port Trust and Krishnapatnam Port in Andhra Pradesh which were declared as textile materials and food items. Nine people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the series of smugglings, the release added. Shah argued that the Congress and its allies, including Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee, also insulted Mr Modi more than 50 times. BJP chief Amit Shah garlanded by his party workers during an election campaign in in West Midnapore on Tuesday. (Photo: PTI) Kolkata: Dismissing Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadras comparison of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Duryodhana, the evil prince from Mahabharat, BJP president Amit Shah on Tuesday hailed Mr Modi as Arjun (the protagonist of Mahabharat), saying the Lok Sabha poll results on May 23 will determine whether Mr Modi is Duryodhan or Arjun. He also defended the PM for his attacking comments on former PM Rajiv Gandhi which has triggered a massive controvesy in the political theatre. In an oblique reference to Mr Modis salvo to Congress president Rahul Gandhi: Your fathers life ended as Corrupt No.1, the BJP chief wondered what wrong he said. Mr Shah argued that the Congress and its allies, including Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee, also insulted Mr Modi more than 50 times. Addressing a BJP Lok Sabha Election campaign rally at Belda in West Midnapore, Mr Shah said, Just now Priyanka Gandhi has compared Modiji with Duryodhan. Priyankaji, the people of the country will decide on May 23 who is Duryodhan and who is Arjun. You do not need be restless. Let the result on May 23 come. The people of the country will say then whether Modiji is Durjyodhan or Arjun. Rallying support behind Mr Modi who has been in the eye of storm for his comments on the late PM the BJP chief observed, Modiji recently said that Bofors scam took place during the tenure of Rajiv Gandhi as the PM. What wrong did he say? Rahul Gandhi should tell the people whether Bofors scam and Bhpoal Gas Tragedy Santi Sena Blunder and the Kashmiri Panditss slaughter indeed happened during his fathers rule or not. Speaking at an election rally in Ghatal, the BJP president alleged that West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee is not allowing people to chant Jai Shri Ram in the state, and wondered if the Lords name cannot be taken in India, will it be uttered in Pakistan. He said that polls in West Bengal are for restoring democracy in the state, where the BJP will win more than 23 seats out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats. Lord Ram is a part of the culture of India... Can anybody stop people from taking his name? I want to ask Mamata didi, if Shri Rams name is not taken in India, will it be chanted in Pakistan? Shah said. A video had appeared in the social media that showed Ms Banerjee stopping her car at a place in West Midnapore district on Saturday, and chasing some persons who chanted Jai Shri Ram as her carcade was crossing the area. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. Gandhi told the rally about the two sheets of glass that are sometimes visible during PM Modis public rallies. Kolkata: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday asserted that no power in the country could bring Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Centre again. He also underlined that the people would give Mr Modi such a strong reply and a massive jolt in the Lok Sabha Election that he would realise his mistake of lying to the people. Addressing a rally in Purulia, Mr Gandhi also mocked the PM for using teleprompters during his speeches. He assured that if the Congress comes to power, it would bring a new law for the farmers for whom he alleged Mr Modi did nothing. The BJPs sole aim is to make Mr Modi the PM again. I can tell you that no force in India can make him the PM again. The people of India are going to give such a strong reply and a massive jolt to him that he would feel it. Modiji, you can not lie to India. You can not loot here, he said. The Congress chief further said, You cannot steal the money of air force and put it in Anil Ambanis pocket. When you come, you must talk about your promises. You promised to deposit `15 lakhs in each citizens account, provide adequate earning to the farmers and give jobs to two crores youth. Talk about it. What happened to these claims? Mr Gandhi told the rally about the two sheets of glass that are sometimes visible during PM Modis public rallies. Now two mirrors, called teleprompters are placed in front of him on both sides. He can not share what is written there. It says Modiji, do not talk about unemployment because people will get angry, do not talk about farmers, do not talk about depositing `15 lakhs to their bank accounts, he said. The Congress president also blamed Mr Modi and Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee for lack of welfare of the peasants. The Congress president asked, "Have Modiji and Mamataji offered the right price to the farmers of their produces? Wherever they go, they make false promises. If entrepreneurs take loans of crores but fails to repay it, they do not go to jail. However if farmers from a district like Purulia do the same, Modiji send them behind bars. I do not think it is right." He added, "The Congress has decided that the law will be changed after the Lok Sabha Election. No farmer either from Purulia or any other district or state will not be put behind bars owning to loan repayment failure. The government of India will present a special budget for the farmers." Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. Translations of the Natyashastra have also appeared in Gujarati, Marathi and Hindi. Browsing through old article, I came across in my dance collection important notes I had made during the All India Dance Seminar held in 1958 by the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi in New Delhi at Vigyan Bhavan. The seminar had a galaxy of scholars including Sanskrit vidvan Dr V. Raghavan from Chennai, Atombapu Sharma from Imphal, Manipur, Dr Maheswar Neog from Guwahati, Assam and several others. Among the performers were dancers from Rukmini Devi's Kalakshetra, who gave an illuminating demonstration of various parts of bodies anga, upanga, pratyanga, movements, chalis, hand-gestures and their usages as per Nandikeshwaras Abhinaya Darpana. In the early fifties, when I was learning Bharatnatyam at Rajarajeswari Bharata Natya Kala Mandir at Matunga in Mumbai, under Guru Kuppaiah Pillai and his son Kalyansundaram, we were not taught the shlokas from Abhinaya Darpana nor hand gestures and its usages, known as viniyogas. We memorised the hand-gestures as taught to us by the gurus, but did not know that some of them are from the Natyashastra and some from the Abhinaya Darpana. The systematic training of the hand gestures and other related matters for learning dance as per the Natyashastra and the Abhinaya Darpana was found at Kalakshetra where with the help of scholars, Rukmini Devi had introduced the shlokas for training various parts of the body for dance. It was quite an eye-opener for many present there. However, the study of the Natyashastra I undertook was only in the year 1975, when I registered for a PhD in the dance department of M.S. University of Baroda, under Anjali Mehr, a disciple of Rukmini Devi. My subject was Dance Drama Traditions of Kuchipudi, Bhagavata Mela Nataka and Kuravanji with special reference to rasa theory as expounded in Bharatas Natyashastra. I recalled the notes I had made during the All India Dance Seminar to find out more about the Natyashastra. I had once only seen Part I of the Natyashastra published by Gaekwad Oriental Institute of Baroda. In order to get that copy I visited the Oriental Institute in Baroda and to my utter surprise I was told that there were four parts of the Natyashastra. I bought them in order to study the rasa theory and other aspects for my studies of Dance Drama Traditions. I stayed at the Vikram Sarabhai Hostel of the University in Baroda for the next two years and started meeting the scholars who could explain to me the relevant portions of the Natyashastra. I also got curious about how the Natyashastra was found and was introduced as a study in the dance departments. It was in 1865 that a foreigner, one Mr Hall, drew attention to the manuscript of the Natyashastra by Bharata. He also drew attention to the theoretical canons of the Hindu stage. William Jones had translated Abhijnan Shakuntala in English for the first time in 1789, and Wilson had written his Select Specimens of the Theatre of the Hindus in 1826. These were important landmarks in the study of Sanskrit texts. Further, with the discovery of a manuscript of the Natyashastra by Heymann in Germany in 1874 and the subsequent publication of chapters I-XIV by J. Grosset, a new field of Indological studies began. This was broadly termed as Indological studies relating to the theatre arts of India. Chapters I-XIV of Grossets edition included the chapters on rasa, the four important chapters on Angikabhinaya, the Karanas and a valuable chapter on construction of the theatre. This aroused the curiosity of scholars in a field regarding which there had not been a very keen interest. Dance sculptures referred to in the Natyashastra None had suspected that Indological studies would lead to the study of dance. Despite the foundation of Indological studies, dance did not receive any independent attention for many years. Dr Ananda Coomaraswamy had, through his independent lectures on the different Indian arts generally, and through the publication of The Mirror of Gestures, a translation of the Abhinaya Darpana of Nadikeshwara in 1917, succeeded in drawing the attention of scholars to the important field where there was vast and valuable material awaiting discovery. Many scholars in India and in the West became interested in the study of the texts relating to dance. Many performing artistes, especially from the West, began to apply themselves to an exploration of the rich tradition of classical Indian dance. From various reviews which appeared around the 1920s, it was obvious that scholars had recognised the need for and the importance of a systematic study of the texts of Indian dance and drama. Artistes in India felt that the art of dance, so far degraded, was at last coming into its own. Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, through his institution, Vishva Bharati, Shantiniketan, revived the Manipuri dance and inspired many scholars and gurus, as well as artistes, to revive the forgotten schools of Indian dancing. Another great poet from Kerala, Vallathol Narayan Menon, who established the Kerala Kala Mandalam institution, contributed immensely to the revival of Kathakali. Rukmini Devi established Kalakshetra in 1936 in Chennai, and, as noted earlier, laid the foundation of the study of the Natyashastra and allied texts. Dr Kapila Vatsyayan, the leading dance historian and scholar, has observed that a survey of Indological studies in the field of dance may either restrict itself to a review of the search for manuscripts and the publication and translation of critical texts on dance, and it can be extended to include attempts to apply these texts to contemporary dance practice, or to reconstruct classical dance practice through textual and sculptural evidence. Texts on dance and chapters on dance in texts relating to sculpture, painting, music, and dramaturgy in Sanskrit are innumerable. It is interesting to note that texts are also found in regional Indian languages. One may even be surprised to learn that they are found in Persian and Arabic languages and they extend over long periods of history and deal with general and specialised aspects of the dance technique. From among this vast literature and texts, only a few important texts like the Natyashastra, the Abhinaya Darpana, and the Sangita Ratnakara were published in the 1950s. It was bound to happen that many more were being studied critically and were awaiting publication. Dr Kapila Vatsyayan, with her magnum opus, Classical Indian Dance in Literature and the Arts, published by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, has set high standards for the study of dance in India. When she was asked to establish the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), she saw to it that the hundreds of valuable manuscripts were not only collected but also preserved and a systematic reading of them and later on critical editions of the same be published. Today, the IGNCA has published several Sanskrit texts related to not only dance, but also to various other fields including Vedas, Upanishads and rituals with the help of Sanskrit scholars. A separate manuscript section has been set up and young scholars are working on a few manuscripts. The Natyashastra has interested scholars not on account of the chapters specifically relating to dance, but also the text is a comprehensive text on dramaturgy and poetics. Many editions of the work have been published. Fortunately, the chapters on Angikabhinaya have featured in all of them. Apart from the Chowkhamba and Kavyamala editions the two editions of the Natyashastra in the Gaekwad Oriental series, mentioned above, drew the attention of the scholars to the sculptural reliefs on the east Gopuram in the Chidambaram temple. The edition carried the illustrations of drawings of the sculptures. The 1926 edition of the Natyashastra of Gaekwad Oriental series had many inaccuracies and lacunae, but it was the first attempt at correlation. It was also important for the publication of the commentary of Abhinavagupta. For the students of dance, the 1956 edition re-edited by Ramakrishna Kavi was a welcome one, especially with regard to Chapter IV. It rectified some of the mistakes of the first edition and also pointed out the errors of C.V. Naidu in his translation of the fourth chapter in the book titled Tandava Lakshanam. When I am writing this, the major important work on the fourth chapter of the Natyashastra on Karanas is done by Dr Padma Subrahamanyam. Not only that, she has evolved her own dance technique which she calls Bharatanritya to separate it from contemporary Bharatnatyam. For someone like me, even with enough knowledge of Sanskrit, having studied it as an optional subject in my masters and having studied the uttar bhaga (part) of Banabhattas Kadambari, Bharavis Naishadha Charitam, Bhasas Bhasanataka Chakra and the six plays of Bhasa, the study of the Natyashastra was a tough job. The English translation of the Natyashastra by Manmohan Ghosh was the only text that enabled me to study a text which was so far inaccessible. However clumsy the translation is, it has remained to this date an important text. Fortunately, by 1970, the second part of the translation was published and I could access both parts of Ghoshs translation for the study of the Natyashastra of all four parts published by Gaekwad Oriental Series. These volumes are a must for any student of dance and for dancers. A bronze sculpture of the Dancing Shiva Translations of the Natyashastra have also appeared in Gujarati, Marathi and Hindi. Also, inspite of the commentary of Abhinavgupta, the different editions and the translations, the Natyashastra remains a text full of ambiguities and question marks for a serious scholar. Because the earlier chapters cannot be fully understood without reference to, and with a critical understanding of, not only the later chapters, but also of the other aspects of the dramaturgy, poetics and music with which Bharata deals. Even today a detailed and accurate formulation of the theory of dance enunciated by Bharata, as distinct from the theory of drama, music, and poetry is yet to appear. What helped me was the paper presented in the seminar by Dr V. Raghavan on Uparupkas and Nritya Prabandhas. He had discussed the tradition of dance dramas in terms of classification as Uparupakas and Nritya Prabandhas. Therefore, the dance drama traditions of Kuchipudi, Bhagavata Mela Nataka and Kuravanji were Uparupkas, as separate from the Dashrupakas described by Bharata in the Natyashastra. Once this was clear, the study of the Natyashastra was helpful for understanding the rasa theory which applies to paintings, sculptures, music, and poetics. The chapters on Samanyabhinaya and Chitrabhinaya became clear. The tradition of the entrance of characters as seen in Kathakali, Bhagavata Mela Nataka, Kuchipudi and Kuravanji were understood with the chapters on Dhruvadhyaya, in which the entrance of characters as Darus is explained. Of course, one had to study the chapters on the nayikas and the nayakas. These had to be correlated to actual performances, which I had seen over for the past 20 years and had collected information with photographs. The material I had collected with field work and interviewing great dancers and watching performances in Kuchipudi village, at Melattur, Sulamangalam, Saliyamangalam, Oothkad, Taperamanalur and Nallur, the six villages where the tradition of Bhagavata Mela Nataka was still alive and performances of Kuravanji which I saw at Rukmini Devis Kalakshetra helped me to correlate the practice and theory. It was a tough task and the guidance was not easily accessible. However, what helped me immensely was the study of the Natyashastra which I could see had influenced all dance and dance drama forms. The Abhinaya Darpana has the advantage of being a text only on dance and this has been responsible for its being the most popular text for performing artists. Telugu, Kannada and Gujarati translations have appeared and the translations in English by both Coomaraswamy and Ghosh are clear and comprehensible. The growth of movement in dance: One is able to study the growth of movement in dance because of publications of other texts like the Natyashastra Sangraha, the Balaramabharatam, the Bhartarnava and the seventh chapter of the Sangitaratnakara. With my interest in dance during the PhD period, I also studied with help of scholars and few available translations Vishnudharmottara Purana, Nrityaratnavali, Bhavaprakasha, Sringarapraksha, Mansollasa and Natakalakshankosh. Later on, with the passage of time, one studied Shubhankar Kavis Hastamuktavali, and for my post-doctoral studies on Dance Sculptures of the Medieval Temples of North Gujarat, the text of Sangitopanishatsaroddhara. As mentioned by Dr Kapila Vatsyayan, these texts help one to study the history of movements as they developed over the centuries. It is important to note that many scholars are not performing artistes and performing artistes are not scholars. The chasm which had existed between scholars and performing artistes over a considerable period of time was bridged by dancers like Ragini Devi, mother of Indrani Rahaman, Guru Gopinath, La Meri, and Rukmini Devi. Of course, Uday Shankar will always be remembered for his pioneering work of putting Indian dance on the world map, and for the subsequent establishment of classical dance forms. The All India Dance Seminar also acted as a catalytic agent for the development and awareness for regional danceforms. The shastric tradition of Meitei Jagoi of Manipur has been brought to the notice of scholars by Pt Atombapu Sharma; Yakshagana by Sivarama Karanth, the Sattriya dances of Assam by Dr Maheshwar Neog.The text of Abhinaya Chadrika by Maheswar Mohapatra has drawn attention of the classical character of Odissi dance. Tamil and Malayalam texts have drawn attention to the repertoire. The seminar also drew attention to the importance of the study of the dance forms of Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos and Japan. The collaboration of a large number of scholars and performing artists working together would help reconstruct the history of Indian dance and its ramifications in the countries of South-East Asia. Looking back, attempting to locate how the text of the Natyashastra has helped scholars, one is able to comprehend a larger vision of Indian classical dance vis-a-vis danceforms of other countries. The writer is an eminent dance historian The Prime Minister went on to criticise the Congress over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Modi, while addressing the gathering here, also said those who have looted the country 'will have to pay back.' (Photo: ANI twitter) Fatehabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said if the NDA government comes back to power, he will put the 'shahenshah' who looted farmers behind bars within the next five years. "Whenever there was Congress' government in Centre and Haryana, they took away the land of farmers at low rates. With your blessings, this Chowkidar has taken those who looted farmers to the court. They are going around seeking bail. They are going to ED offices. They used to think that they are 'shahenshahs' (emperor) and nobody can touch them. Now they are nervous. I have already taken them to the door of the jail, give me your blessings and I'll put them in jail within next five years," Modi said in an apparent reference to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra, who is currently facing trial in a land deal case. Modi, while addressing the gathering here, also said those who have looted the country "will have to pay back." The Prime Minister went on to criticise the Congress over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. "In 1984, in different parts of the country including Delhi, Punjab and Haryana thousands of our Sikh brothers and sisters were killed at the behest of the Congress family," he said. "For 34 years, a dozen of commissions were made, but justice was not given to the Sikh community. Your 'Chowkidar' had promised to punish those involved in the 1984 riots. I am happy that the process to punish them has begun." Modi went on to say, "This shameless Congress is still providing benefits to these tainted people who were involved in committing that sin. They even made one of those involved in the riots as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. From this, it is clear that Congress is not bothered about your feelings." He also accused the Congress of not making enough efforts at the time of Independence to ensure that Kartarpur Sahib is a part of India. "Congress' history is about ignoring your emotions. Otherwise, there was no reason why Kartarpur Sahib is in Pakistan. At the time of partition, if they would have made a little effort then Kartarpur Sahib would have been in India... But our government is making efforts to ensure that people who go to seek blessing from Kartarpur Sahib don't face any problem. For this, the Kartarpur Sahib corridor is being made," he added. Also, accusing Congress of backing the 'tukde, tukde gang', Prime Minister Narendra Modi said by promising to revoke sedition law and Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the Congress party wants to give full freedom to stone pelters and those who support terrorists and naxals. "Congress is also promising about removing the sedition law. Congress wants that the 'tukde tukde' gang, those who insult India, those who insult the national flag and those favouring naxals should be given full freedom. I want to know whether you accept these promises made by the Congress," he said addressing an election rally here. 'Tukde tukde gang" (the gang of splitters) is a slogan ascribed to protesters in Jawaharlal Nehru University three years ago, an incident in which students union leader Kanhaiya Kumar was slapped a case of sedition against him. He is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Begusarai in Bihar as a CPI constituency. Modi also slammed Congress saying that in its manifesto the party has said that that if they would form the government in the Centre, they will take away the security provided to Jawans posted in sensitive areas including Jammu and Kashmir through AFSPA. "This means that Congress is openly talking about giving full freedom to the stone-pelters and those who support terrorism," he said in the rally in Sirsa constituency, an area that sends a considerable number of people to the army and security forces. He further asked Opposition leaders why they do not talk about Defence policies in their public meetings. "Can any nation become a world power without strengthening its defence? Will the world listen to a country which cannot protect itself? Have Congress or any other 'mahamilavati' parties ever spoken about defence policies in their gatherings? They can't say anything on defence because of their history in this field," he said. "Before 2014, terrorist attacks used to take place but the weak government of the Congress used to only give statements. The strong government that people have made in the Centre has given strength to our Jawans. Now our Jawans enter Pakistan and kill terrorists. Those terrorists, who used to threaten us earlier, are now hiding away," he added. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses etc all. Happy reading. Several candidates these elections have crowdsourced money to fund their campaigns. New Delhi: In India, elections have always been known for enormous spending. The kind of seizures the Election Commission has made after the announcement of polling schedule is evidence of the influence money has on politics. With many newcomers contesting this election, they have taken their funding to the people. The Election Commission of India has set the ceiling on a candidates expenditure at Rs 70 lakhs. And there are some, who are spending other peoples money. With the best intentions, of course, as reported by The Week. Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi, contesting from East Delhi in the Lok Sabha elections, has managed to gather funds solely through crowdsourcing. Her online campaign launched on the web platform ourdemocracy.in attracted 2,319 donors contributing Rs 70 lakhs. She found support in Yashwant Sinha, Gul Panag, Javed Jaffrey, Girish Karnad among others. Atishi is contesting against Gautam Gambhir of the BJP and Arvinder Singh Lovely of the Congress. Atishi said a significant number of contributors donated less than Rs 500 which is an indication that she has common peoples support. I would be accountable to those who have contributed in small amounts and not to large corporations. This is the power of crowd funding, Atishi said. Aam Aadmi Partys Raghav Chadha has gathered Rs 4.5 lakh through crowdfunding. Chadha is contesting from South Delhi constituency. Ourdemocracy.in has facilitated crowdfunding for CPIs Begusarai candidate Kanhaiya Kumar who managed more than Rs 70 lakhs with over 5,300 donors. Leaders of the traditional parties like the Samajwadi Party have also resorted to crowdfunding. SPs candidate Ghanshyam Tiwari, contesting from Karakat, Bihar has managed to gather Rs 22 lakhs. The online portal, a Delhi based start-up, is the initiative of former journalist Bilal Zaidi, activist Anand Mangnale, media professional Yash Marwah and former AAP member Nishtha Sood. The aim is to help journalists and activists finance their campaign. The Left and the Bahujan Samaj Party had also relied on crowdsourcing. BSP founder Kanshiram had launched one rupee, one vote to seek voters support years ago. The AAP had organised massive crowdfunding to contest the Delhi elections in 2013. With technological advancement, the concept has gone online. The Congress leader said the people would end Modi's "arrogance" this time in the polls. Varanasi: Congress leader Ajay Rai, who is contesting against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varanasi, said that he would give a tough fight to the PM. "I am declaring that I will fight this Lok Sabha election in the name of (former prime minister) Rajiv Gandhi ji and also vow to give a tough fight to Modi from the Varanasi seat," Rai said at a press conference. Rai claimed that former Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Singh Yadav's Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party (Lohia) had extended its support to the Congress candidates of Varanasi and Chandauli to defeat the "communal" forces and stop them from coming to power. The Congress leader said the people would end Modi's "arrogance" this time in the polls. "All his atrocities on the people will end after the elections, as he (Modi) had even demolished temples to pave way for the (Kashi-Vishwanath) corridor," Rai alleged. He accused Modi of imposing a fee of Rs 550 on devotees visiting the Kashi Vishwanath, in an apparent reference to the special darshan facility at the temple. "If the Congress comes to power, then this kind of 'jizya' (tax) will go away and also an inquiry will be set up to probe those people involved in building the corridor in Varanasi. The Sena had questioned Mr Pawar over his allegations on the state government not doing enough regarding drought relief measures. Mumbai: The Shiv Sena has slammed Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar saying that he failed to solve water and agriculture issues despite being in power for a long time. It has also supported the state government over its measures to tackle the drought conditions in the state. In an editorial in its party mouthpiece Saamana, on Tuesday, the Sena had questioned Mr Pawar over his allegations on the state government not doing enough regarding drought relief measures. Mr Pawar has a good knowledge in issues like agriculture, water, drou-ght etc. He was in power for many years at the Centre and the state. What schemes did he implement to solve water and agriculture issues? asked the party. The ruling party has implemented the Jalyukta Shivar scheme. However, it has been proved that during the tenure of earlier government the biggest scam took place in irrigation schemes. Revenue minister Chandrakant Patil has regretted that Mr Pawar is doing politics over drought. He has done a right thing by asking Opposition to help the government to tackle drought conditions instead of politicising the issue, said the editorial. After the polling was over in the state, Mr Pawar started his tours of drought affected areas. He has alleged that the government is doing nothing to tackle drought in the state. The government may try hard, but the Opposition will find lack in its efforts. Hence, the government should turn a blind eye towards what the Opposition are saying on drought. It is wrong if touring drought affected areas are being used as a preparation for Vidhan Sabha polls, said the party. Maharashtra is facing a severe drought. Now that the elections are over, there is a need to concentrate on drought relief measures. Owing to the severe drought conditions, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis requested the Election Commission (EC) to relax the model code of conduct (MCC) and the commission has also accepted it, said the party. After polling for the Lok Sabha polls was over in the state, Mr Pawar immediately started the tour of drought-affected areas of Solapur and Osmanabad districts, which are two of the worst hit by drought. The NCP chief also met farmers at their agriculture field and had interaction with them. During the tours, he expressed concern by saying that state governments efforts to tackle drought are insufficient. Cannabis could come to the beach cities. This is how It would have been unthinkable only a few weeks ago that the BJP would even countenance such a possibility. Prime Minister Narendra Modis re-election bid seems precariously poised. Even his partymen and allies are not certain that the BJP will get an absolute majority on its own. Party general secretary Ram Madhav has hinted that if the BJP does not get a clear majority, then it would be able to from the next government comfortably with the help of its allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Sanjeev Raut of Shiv Sena has also indicated that the BJP may fall short of a clear majority. It would have been unthinkable only a few weeks ago that the BJP would even countenance such a possibility. Its leaders were busy claiming that the party would exceed its last tally of 282. Ordinary folk can only guess at what assessment the BJP itself has made after nearly 80 per cent of the polling is over. There are, however, some straws in the wind which suggest that its direction could be changing. The body language of BJP leaders lacks its earlier swagger. They seem irritable and prickly. While no political party ever admits losing an election till the last vote has been counted, frustration seems writ large on their faces. The very fact that at the fag end of the polling the BJP has had to use the Union home ministry to rake up the issue of Congress president Rahul Gandhis citizenship, or make abusive comments about former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi by flogging the dead horse of Bofors and attack the dignity of a globally-admired two-term Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, suggests that things are not going well for the BJP. Prime Minister Modis election rhetoric has deteriorated. With each passing day he seems to be slipping further into gracelessness. In West Bengal, he tried to destabilise, disorient and demoralise chief minister Mamata Banerjee by threatening to dislodge her through defections. He tried to sow confusion in Uttar Pradesh by suggesting a conspiracy against Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati by her ally, the Samajwadi Party, and the Congress. Mamata Banerjee and her party cadres have become more defiant and aggressive towards the BJP. And the Prime Minister has forced Mayawati to declare unequivocally that her supporters will vote for the Congress in the two prestigious constituencies of Amethi and Rae Bareli. Congress president Rahul Gandhi is contesting from Amethi and his mother Sonia Gandhi from Rae Bareli. That even Prime Minister Modi suspects that he is not getting a majority is also indicated by his fulsome praise for Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik after his handling of the devastation caused by Cyclone Fani. Earlier, he had described the Mr Patnaik as corrupt and inefficient. He even had his picture taken with chief minister Patnaik poring over a map of the cyclone-affected area, creating the image of two cooperative heads working as one. Prime Minister Modi is not given to sharing credit with anyone, and this outreach is meant to stoke hopes of Mr Patnaiks post-poll support. Prime Minister Modi is not the only one making post-poll outreach even though two phases of polling are still due. The activities of Telangana chief minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) should set alarms bells ringing in the BJP. He was expected to back the BJP after the election in case it fell short of a majority even with its NDA allies. But he has once again decided to plough his non-Congress, non-BJP furrow of setting up a Federal Front. In this regard, he has already met Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan and called Karnataka chief minister H.D. Kumaraswamy. He also wants to meet Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (DMK) chief M.K. Stalin on May 13, which may not take place because of the latters reluctance. KCR is also scheduled to visit West Bengal for further talks with Mamata Banerjee. Whether KCRs efforts bear fruit or not is immaterial. What is significant is that he does not expect the BJP to emerge as a clear victor in this election and sees an opportunity for the Opposition to make a bid for power in New Delhi. Similarly, YSR Congress chief Jaganmohan Reddy, who until recently was being potentially counted as part of BJPs NDA-plus alliance, has also left his post-poll options open. He says that he has forgiven the Congress for its past actions against him and that he will support any government at the Centre which gives Andhra Pradesh the status of a special category state. That rules out the BJP as it had chased away a trusted ally, the Telugu Desam Party, precisely on these grounds. Clearly the jostling for power for a post-BJP scenario amongst the Opposition parties has begun in right earnest. There are also rumours that Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been in touch with Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar, who stands a good chance of heading a non-BJP coalition government. Mr Pawar has acceptability across the political spectrum and the BJP has done nothing to endear itself to him. The BJP government in Maharashtra has in fact gone out of its way to ensure that his daughter Surpiya Sule finds it difficult to win from the familys pocket borough of Baramati this time around. Mr Pawars party has been sufficiently tormented and blackmailed by the Narendra Modi government to push him to consolidate the anti-BJP Opposition or even lead it. Yet another straw in the wind which suggests that the election may not be going in favour of the BJP has come from the Election Commission. The repeated and open dissent of one of the election commissioners, Ashok Lavasa, on complaints of violations of the Model Code of Conduct by Prime Minister Modi and BJP president Amit Shah is flying like a windsock. Lastly, the weathervane of Indian politics, the cacophonous national media, has also begun changing colours. Shedding its image of being the in-house publicity platform of the Modi government, it has suddenly begun discovering virtues in the Opposition. Nothing else explains the spate of interviews of Congress president Rahul Gandhi in the media. This would have been unthinkable only a few months ago. The transmitted images were framed in such a way as to disguise the paucity of the personnel. It seems Guaido and his Washington-based sponsors had been expecting Maduros defence minister, military intelligence chief and head of the supreme court to announce their defection. (Photo: AFP) At the start of this week, the self-proclaimed interim president of Venezuela, Juan Guaido, declared he was willing to evaluate all options, including that of inviting US military intervention to facilitate regime change. If not quite acknowledging defeat, he was at least admitting another setback. At the crack of dawn on April 30, Guaido stood outside a military base and transmitted a video announcing a final push to oust Nicolas Maduro was under way. A bunch of men in uniform symbolically stood behind him, intended to convey the impression that Maduro had lost military support. The transmitted images were framed in such a way as to disguise the paucity of the personnel. Even more embarrassingly, the crowds that responded to Guaidos appeal to throng the streets were conspicuously underwhelming. Guaido was also accompanied by his mentor Leopoldo Lopez, the right-wing opposition leader sprung from home arrest, possibly with the connivance of Maduros spy chief, Manuel Figuera, who fled the country not long afterwards. Lopez, who has reportedly been concerned about Guaido hogging the limelight in recent months, sought refuge within hours in first the Chilean and then the Spanish embassy. It seems Guaido and his Washington-based sponsors had been expecting Maduros defence minister, military intelligence chief and head of the supreme court to announce their defection. Apparently, they had been promised they would retain their posts in a post-Maduro administration, provided they rescinded their loyalty to the president. It didnt happen, and even the American press cannot decide whether they backed out under pressure, or had merely been playing along in order to expose the coup plot. The Trump administration officials most invested in regime change in Caracas, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and national security adviser John Bolton, not only publicly named the three amigos they had been trying to lure in what was clearly an attempt to rattle the Maduro regime but also claimed that an aircraft was on standby, waiting to whisk Maduro away to Havana, until the Russians persuaded him to hang on in there. At the same time, Pompeo has asserted that up to 25,000 Cuban troops are the only force keeping Maduro in power. There is, of course, no evidence for these claims, which have officially been ridiculed by Moscow and Havana. Cuba says the vast majority of its nationals deployed in Venezuela are medical personnel, and even the CIA has reportedly pushed back against the Trump administrations inventions and exaggerations. Meanwhile, a week or so before the latest abortive coup attempt, Reuters reported that Erik Prince, the infamous founder of Blackwater, who has since been involved in supplying Colombian mercenaries to the UAE and serving as a security consultant for the Chinese, had proposed a private army of 5,000 to topple Maduro. Even more alarmingly, back in January, shortly after the Trump regime had declared its allegiance to Guaido, the Wall Street Journal quoted unnamed administration officials as saying that Boltons ambitions went beyond Caracas: he is determined to destabilise what he designated late last year as the troika of tyranny in an effort to bring not just Venezuela (with its repository of the worlds largest crude oil reserves) but also Cuba and Nicaragua back into the US sphere of influence. He is not alone. Besides Pompeo, he can count on the likes of the vice president, Mike Pence, and legislators such as Marco Rubio. As for the president, Donald Trump campaigned on the basis of reducing American military entanglements abroad, but he is profoundly ignorant, relatively easy to manipulate (particularly if he is led to believe there is money to be made), and an international distraction or two would serve him well in the light of his domestic dilemmas. Boltons hatreds are not restricted to the western hemisphere, though, and recent manoeuvres in the Gulf suggest he is also keen to provoke a clash with Iran a prospect that would be relished by leading US allies in the Middle East, from Israel to Saudi Arabia and the UAE. There are innumerable grounds on which the governments in Iran and Venezuela deserve to be criticised, and its perfectly legitimate to hope something better will replace them. But one has to be completely ignorant of recent history to assume that direct or indirect US intervention could possibly help to achieve this goal in Latin America, the Middle East or, for that matter, in any other part of the world. If anything, it can be more or less guaranteed to make matters a great deal worse. Therefore, although it may be a temporary reprieve, the thwarting of imperialist ambitions at the first hurdle, in Caracas, comes as a relief. By arrangement with Dawn The ex-wife of a neurologist in Singapore has been granted Singapore dollars in assets, child and spousal support by British Columbia court. The doctor ran a private clinic at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and had married Christie in 1997. She filed for divorce in 2016. (Photo: MountElizabeth.com) Singapore: The ex-wife of an Indian-origin neurologist in Singapore has been granted Singapore dollars 25 million in assets, child support and spousal support by a British Columbia court, in one of the biggest divorce payouts abroad. Gobinathan Devathasan, 69, whose behaviour was described as "reprehensible" during the litigation, was ordered on April 29 to pay his ex-wife Christie Devathasan Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in spousal support, with another Canadian dollars 612,084 for child support. During the course of the litigation, Mr Devathasan had handled funds in his Singapore bank account despite an asset freezing order, failed to disclose properties, deliberately embarrassed his daughter and suggested that a judge had "spread her legs wide" to the claimant's counsel, the court was told. The doctor ran a private clinic at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and had married Christie in 1997. She filed for divorce in 2016, Channel News Asia reported. The couple was described in the court judgment as being "uncommonly wealthy", and had owned expensive cars, jewellery, artwork and homes, with investment properties in Canada, the US, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. Christie divorced her first husband in 1996, while Mr Devathasan divorced his first wife, with whom he had two children with, in 1997. Shortly after, the couple got married in Singapore in August 1997. The couple's relationship deteriorated in 2015 and early 2016, according to the court papers. The divorce proceedings commenced in July 2016. Christie obtained an asset freezing order and a protection order, and these orders were served to Mr Devathasan in August 2016. The doctor claimed that they were not binding as he was in Singapore and took steps to deal with his assets. Mr Devathasan's past conduct was also taken into account in deciding ongoing and future child support. He has to pay Canadian dollars 33,084 for past child support and a lump sum of Canadian dollars 579,000 for child support for the period through to June 2022. "For a long time he was utterly unwilling to acknowledge or fulfill his parental and spousal responsibilities or acknowledge this court''s role in adjudicating those responsibilities," Justice Gomery said in his judgment. In an affidavit sworn on May 22, 2017, he stated: "I will not pay a dollar for alimony now or till death or whatever any one decrees, no matter what". The judge ordered Mr Devathasan to pay his ex-wife Canadian dollars 2,351,000 in connection with the allocation of family property and debt. He will also have to pay a total of Canadian dollars 612,084 in child support, and Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in total for spousal support. The Canadian dollars 16.4 million in assets granted to Christie Devasthan include a house in West Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 6.2 million, an apartment in Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 2.35 million and an apartment in Florida worth Canadian dollars 2.48 million. The doctor was granted Canadian dollars 21.4 million after the proceedings. The judge described Mr Devathasan as a "hardworking man all his life", adding that the doctor worked Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings throughout his career in private practices. "He has loyal patients," the judge was quoted as saying in the report. The suspect had offered Rs 500,000 as a bribe to the officer at the Horowpothana Police station. NTJ is blamed for the April 21 bombings on three churches and three hotels in Sri Lanka. (Photo: File) Colombo: A Sri Lankan man was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly attempting to bribe a police officer to obtain bail for a suspect held in connection with the Easter bombings. The 26-year-old suspect, Mohammed Shifan, had offered Rs 500,000 as a bribe to the Officer in Charge (OIC) at the Horowpothana Police station to free a member of the National Thowheed Jamaath (NTJ). NTJ is blamed for the April 21 bombings on three churches and three hotels here, the Colombo Page reported. Shifan is said to be a close accomplice of the NTJ member, Abdul Majeed Mohamed Niyaz, who was arrested on April 28 and was remanded until May 14. Niyaz is said to have been directly involved in the bomb attack on Shangri-La hotel on Easter Sunday. Shifan was ready to pay Rs 250,000 as an advance to secure the release of the NTJ member. The police officer had informed the Bribery Commission and Shifan was arrested while he was handing over the cash to the officer in his office. Nine suicide bombers carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and three luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday, killing more than 250 people. Dozens of people linked with the NTJ have been arrested following the blasts. With Mothers Day weekend upon us, we are tasked with the job of laying out the perfect day for Mom. We want her to feel loved, we want her to feel relaxed and, for one day, we want her to feel like the worlds fate is not resting on her shoulders. This day is about recognizing all she does and giving her some time to sit back and take in the madness around her albeit from a comfortable chair, perhaps with a cup of tea? Burger Bash 4: 'Meat' the contenders Part 2 The odds makers are still crunching numbers, but if you are trying to figure out who has the We think tea should be declared the official Mothers Day beverage. If coffee is for putting pep in your step, tea is for slowing down and enjoying the moment. Its for sharing a moment and chatting about life. It has an almost Zen-like calm about it that is unmatched by other beverage. It works in a variety of mom friendly settings, whether its being sipped in iced form on a porch rocking chair or poured into the daintiest of tea cups by a white gloved waiter. Heck, even the Long Island variety at your favorite bar will do in a pinch. So this year we present you a list of spots to have a spot of tea with the one person who always has your back. Flanders Hotel For Mothers Day, the Flanders Hotel in Ocean City is offering a three-course version of high tea complete with all the fancy trimmings. Were talking scones, quiches, a variety of finger sandwiches as well as dessert and of course a freshly infused pot of tea. Cost is $39.95 per person. Call 609-399-1000 for reservations. The Flanders Hotel is located at 719 E. 11th St. in Ocean City. Go to TheFlandersHotel.com. As you'll be able to notice in the images above, the Toyota Supra went nose-first into the guardrail, with the front end of the car now being torn apart.We have no further details on waht led to the ka-bang, which took place Exmuhle section of the Green Hell. Oh, and don't mind the missing heads of the engineers, this is more of a Photoshop job than a corporate lash. Note that you'll also get see a before-the-crash photo of the said test car in the gallery - lens tip to Theofficialpayne TOP Nurburgring Videos for these pics.Those of you who dream about the Ring night and day will remeber that an Mk V Supra tester crashed back in August last year. As is the case with the new accident, the damage seemed limited, with most bits of the car still being attached to it.Now, some gear heads will rush to demonize the 2020 Toyota Supra after this. But doing that is like going to a child who had just bruised himself and pointing the finger - it's okay for test engineers to push cars to the limit on the Nordschleife and sometimes this involves tripping.There are plenty of other big guns that have backfired on the Ring, with the Koenigsegg One:1 being an example as good as any.So here's to a cool lap from the 2020 Toyota Supra. You know, an official on-board video that would mix a spicy chronograph number with engaging behavior (people often forget about this, focusing solely on the lap time). True, she was wearing yoga pants and theyre stretchy, but still. NBC2 reports that troopers for the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office pulled over the truck when it failed to stop at a stop sign. A man was at the wheel and he informed them that he and the female passenger had been looking for snakes under a nearby overpass.Because most wildlife is regulated, the troopers asked the two to open the bags they had in the back of the truck. They did as asked, revealing in a backpack on the floorboard 42 three-striped mud turtles and one softshell turtle. They hadnt been out looking for snakes, after all.However, the strangest thing was yet to happen: when the troopers asked the 2 if they had anything else to declare, the woman pulled a live gator out of her pants. As in, she reached inside and got a baby alligator out of there.The troopers ended up calling the Florida Fish Wildlife and Conservation Commission, and the two were cited for taking the critters home and for some bag violation.However, the real story here is, as the NBC2 crew duly points out in the video at the bottom of the page: whatever were they planning to do with the gator that was so profitable as to risk having it bite the woman in the nether regions? And how come she came up with the idea to stuff it down there in the first place? Was she planning to make it the entire ride like this, or did she do it when she saw the cops?So many questions, so few answers. Surveillance video with the incident has been released, in the hope that members of the public will be able to assist in identifying either of them. The face of the shooter is clearly visible in it, but that of the other suspect not so much. You will also find the footage at the bottom of the page.The incident occurred on May 4 and was captured by several security cameras in the area. Initially, the two male suspects walked by the stranded car, with people inside and blinking lights, and seemed to be going about their business. However, one of them turned around, ran towards the vehicle and fired several shots at the back window of the car.Suddenly one of the suspects produces a black handgun and fires into the back window of the vehicle then fled the area on foot and was last seen south on 16th Street from Butler Street. The victims were taken to an area hospital and treated for gunshot wounds, Philadelphia police say in a description of the incident.The shooter is described as black male, light complexion, thin build, 20-30 years-of-age, beard, possible tattoo left side of neck/near shoulder area and possible tattoo at the top of his back closer to the neck, wearing a light colored t-shirt, light colored shorts and sneakers with reflective strips.Both suspects are considered armed and dangerous, and the police warn against approaching them if spotted. Call 911 instead, if you do see them.The police report doesnt say whether there was any connection between the shooter and his victims, or mention anything more about the current condition of the latter. kWh SUV To support the design and engineering beyond the planned launch of the 3, Polestar announced this week the opening of a new research and development center in Coventry, the UK. The site will employ at first 60 engineers, some of them already involved in other of the carmaker's projects, with more to be added in time.The team that will kick start the new UK R&D subsidiary is already well-versed in Polestar engineering philosophy, and we will expand the initial team further during the course of 2019, said in a statement Hans Pehrson, Polestar research and development manager.These engineers will be a great complement to our existing R&D team based in Sweden, and other supporting teams around the world.Seen in the industry as one of the companies more likely to succeed in its segment and backed by significant Chinese finances and Swedish expertise, Polestar unveiled its latest project, the 2, earlier this year, as possibly the first true challenger to the supremacy of Tesla's Model 3 Priced at $63,000, the fastback will offer a 78battery with a projected range of 275 miles, EPA estimated. Two electric motors will spin the wheels, and they develop 408 hp and 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque.As it plans to further challenge Tesla and its grip on the market, Polestar will have the 3ready in 2021, with other models to follow, named, how else, 4, 5 and so on.Currently, the carmaker is accepting orders for the 1 and 2, and deliveries are expected to begin by the end of the year. ABC One man caused quite a scene on I-95 in Philadelphia, by driving for about 10 minutes and roughly 5 miles on the rims only. Reports from passing motorists cited by the New York Daily News say that the car was literally tearing up the highway, throwing debris in all directions, including at the other cars.Police eventually pulled the man over, after receiving several calls about it from concerned citizens. They all reported a BMW convertible driving without tires, throwing debris onto their own cars and putting everybody at risk.Passing motorists also snapped pictures of the reckless driver, as proof for the police, and you can see a couple of them in theNews video report available at the bottom of the page. The drivers identity hasnt been made public yet, since police are yet to charge him with a crime.The reason for that is that the man is still at the hospital. Police suspect DUI, and he will be charged accordingly once they establish whether he was under the influence or had ongoing mental issues. He didnt go with them without a fight, though.The driver was combative and possibly under the influence when pulled over by police, so tasers were deployed, the publication reports. He was taken into custody and transported to a local hospital for evaluation.Further details about the incident have not been released. It is now known whether the BMW was personal property or might have been stolen, but if it was the suspects car, he was probably past the point of caring about whatever damage he inflicted upon it. When you drive a car on rims, you and that car are probably OVAH! anyway. The House Intelligence Committee subpoenaed the Department of Justice on Wednesday evening for "all counterintelligence and foreign intelligence materials in the probe, the full report, and underlying evidence," within the Mueller report, with House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) tweeting: "We will not be obstructed." The backdrop: On April 25, Schiff and Ranking Member Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) sent a letter to the Justice Department reiterating their demand for special counsel Robert Mueller to brief the committee about his counterintelligence findings threatening "compulsory process" if the department does not comply. "Unfortunately, as the report makes clear, the Department of Justice and the FBI failed to keep the Committee 'fully and currently informed' of this important foreign intelligence and counterintelligence information, as required by law. ... It is deeply unfortunate, moreover, that the Department and the Bureau failed to respond to the Committee's March 27 request, including to initiate a dialogue to facilitate the production of this information to the Committee and to schedule associated briefings requested in our letter. The Department also failed to respond to the Committee's April 18 request for Special Counsel Mueller to testify before the Committee." As CNN's Manu Raju notes, the two lawmakers have different motivations for requesting Mueller's counterintelligence information. Iran will suspend some of its nuclear deal commitments and resume higher uranium enrichment if new terms for the agreement aren't reached within 60 days, President Hassan Rouhani told state television Wednesday. Details: Exactly 1 year on from President Trumps withdrawing the U.S. from the Iran nuclear deal, Rouhani sent letters outlining a partial withdrawal from the 2015 deal to ambassadors of Britain, China, the European Union, France and Germany, state-run Tasnim news agency reported. Those nations were still committed to the existing deal. Why it matters: The announcement comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States. On Sunday, U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said the Pentagon was deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force to Iran to send "a clear and unmistakable message." The big picture: The Trump administration has been working to starve the Iranian regime of cash and chill the country's growth, Axios' Jonathan Swan notes. Trump is set to announce new sanctions against the country, per Swan. Go deeper: Despite provoking international condemnation for his disdain for laws and institutions, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte seems likely to gain stronger domestic support in the May 13 midterms, when voters will elect the lower house of Congress and part of the Senate. Why it matters: Long one of the most democratic states in Southeast Asia, the Philippines has seen under Duterte an illiberal crackdown on the press, judiciary and political opposition and an anti-drug campaign that reportedly has led to the deaths of over 12,000 people, often through extrajudicial killings. Background: Duterte was elected in 2016 with less than 50% of the vote. He now boasts a 79% approval rating, lifted up by a brash style, his drug war and increased spending on social programs. He also commands a powerful army of social media followers. The impact: The legislature has been essentially a rubber stamp as it is. With stronger support, Duterte could push through even bigger changes: A plan for radical constitutional changes to create a more federal system of government (though passage of the divisive reforms is hardly guaranteed) A weakening of institutions designed to protect civil rights A clearer path toward dynastic rule, positioning Duterte's daughter to run for president after his term ends What to watch: The Philippines is a U.S. treaty ally and a frontline state in the tense U.S.China relationship. Early in his term, Duterte seemed ready to abandon Manilas historically close links with Washington in favor of warmer ties with Beijing and a potential influx of Chinese aid and investment. But as China has become more aggressive in the disputed South China Sea hundreds of Chinese ships, for instance, neared the Philippine-claimed Thitu island Duterte has recalibrated, warning China to lay off Thitu and stepping up security links with Washington. Still, the Philippines desperately needs foreign investment, particularly in infrastructure, so Duterte will likely not do too much to alienate Beijing. Joshua Kurlantzick is senior fellow for Southeast Asia at the Council on Foreign Relations. Prosecutors on Wednesday said the 2 suspects involved in the May 7 school shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch that left 1 student dead and 8 wounded, were formally charged with more than a dozen counts of murder and attempted murder as well as theft and arson, reports the AP. Details: All injured students have been released from Denver area hospitals. Wednesday's hearing was just hours before a memorial service for Kendrick Castillo the 18-year-old student who was killed. A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted. The latest: On Wednesday, May 15, Judge Theresa Slade refused a request from the defense to allow the 18-year-old suspect to be unshackled for the hearing and ruled that information related to the case including arrest affidavits will not be made public. The 18-year-old suspect's next court date is set for June 7. What we know: Authorities responded to a middle school administrator's phone call just before 2 pm MST on Tuesday, May 7. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said at a press conference the 2 suspects were believed to be students of the school. They were armed with at least 2 handguns, which they could not have purchased on their own due to their ages, he said. Authorities said at a news conference 3 students who leapt from their desks to tackle the gunman saved lives, the AP reports. Among them was Castillo. His friend Brendan Bialy said he called out to Castillo after wrestling the gun away, but he was unresponsive. "Kendrick went out as a hero," Bialy said. Spurlock said the 2 suspects engaged students at 2 separate locations. The FBI is leading the crime scene investigation. Thus far, no motive has been determined. A Denver Post journalist on the scene shared video of a car being towed away from a suspect's house. "A pentagram was spray painted on hood, with the numbers 666," the reporter, Kieran Nicholson said in his tweet. Highland Ranch schools went into lockdown for several hours, according to the Douglas County School District. White House adviser Ivanka Trump canceled a visit to the nearby Colorado city of Littleton because the administration "did not want to divert resources or attention" from the shooting, according to the Denver Post. She tweeted her reaction to the 4th school shooting in Colorado since the Columbine massacre, as did many 2020 presidential candidates and her father, President Trump. A letter from December 2018 has surfaced from an anonymous parent to the director of the STEM School, flagging concerns about student violence due to a high-pressure environment, and harkening back to the Columbine massacre of 1999, Reuters reports. In the letter, the parent told Douglas County School Board of Education Director Wendy Vogel that many students are suicidal and violent in school. Several students have reported sexual assault and nothing is being done. The Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr. to answer questions about his previous testimony before Senate investigators in relation to the Russia investigation, sources with direct knowledge told Axios. Why it matters: It's the first congressional subpoena that we know about of one of President Trump's children. The subpoena sets up a fight that's unprecedented in the Trump era: A Republican committee chair pit against the Republican president's eldest son. It's also a sign that the Russia investigations in Congress aren't over despite the conclusion of special counsel Robert Mueller's probe and despite Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell saying it's time to move on from the Russia probe. A Senate Intelligence Committee spokesperson told Axios: "We do not discuss the details of witness engagements with the Committee. Throughout the investigation, the Committee has reserved the right to recall witnesses for additional testimony as needed, as every witness and witness counsel has been made aware." "Don and Senate Intel agreed from the very beginning that he would appear once to testify before the committee and would remain for as long as it took to answer all of their questions. He did that. We're not sure why we're fighting with Republicans," a source close to Trump Jr. told Axios. Between the lines: Mueller, whose investigation did not find a conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, did not indict Trump Jr., despite speculation that he would. Unlike many congressional investigations in the Trump era, the Senate Intelligence probe led by Republican chairman Richard Burr and Democratic vice chair Mark Warner has been largely bipartisan. The fact that they're subpoenaing Trump Jr. is a strong signal that he declined a request to appear before the committee again. The backstory: Trump Jr. testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee in September 2017 that he was only "peripherally aware" of proposed plans for the Moscow project. His testimony was released. He testified for a total of more than 25 hours with three different committees, per a source familiar with the situation. In an interview with Fox News Laura Ingraham in January 2019, Trump Jr. downplayed his knowledge of the discussions about a possible Trump Tower in Moscow, saying that the project was a creation of President Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen: "We don't know anything about it. Ultimately, it was Michael Cohen essentially trying to get a deal done." What we know: Cohen claimed in his testimony before the House Oversight Committee in February that Trump Jr. was more aware of the project than that. During the 2016 presidential campaign, Cohen testified, he briefed Trump Jr. and Ivanka Trump about the proposed Trump Tower Moscow project about 10 times. The project was formalized in a letter of intent signed by Trump in October 2015, per CNN, and the Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump Organization talked about the project with a Russian developer. And Buzzfeed reported in January that there were architectural plans and drawings showing what the tower would have looked like. Worth noting: Cohen pleaded guilty in November to lying to Congress. He reported to prison on Monday to serve out his three-year prison sentence. Go deeper ... Timeline: Here's what we know about Trump Tower Moscow President Trump has granted a full pardon to Michael Behenna, a former U.S. soldier convicted in 2009 of killing an Iraqi prisoner, the White House announced Monday. Why it matters: Behenna was originally sentenced to 25 years in prison for unpremeditated murder in a combat zone after killing Ali Mansur Mohamed, which was later reduced to 15 years. The former Army first lieutenant has long said he acted in self-defense. The big picture: Behenna was paroled in 2014 and had been scheduled to remain on parole until 2024. Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter petitioned the White House for the pardon. What they're saying: White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement that the highest appeal court "noted concern about how the trial court had handled Mr. Behenna's claim of self-defense." "Mr. Behennas case has attracted broad support from the military, Oklahoma elected officials, and the public. ... Further, while serving his sentence, Mr. Behenna was a model prisoner. In light of these facts, Mr. Behenna is entirely deserving of this Grant of Executive Clemency." The New York Senate advanced a bill on Wednesday permitting President Trump's state tax returns to be shared with congressional committees, the Washington Post reports. Details: The bill would amend state law to allow New York's Department of Taxation and Finance to deliver state tax returns sought by the House Ways and Means Committee, the Senate Finance Committee or Joint Committee on Taxation for a "specific and legitimate legislative purpose." The bill would specifically apply to Trump's state returns, not the federal returns at the heart of ongoing disputes between the House and the Treasury Department. However, former Assistant U.S. Attorney Harry Sandick tells the Post: "The New York state tax returns likely contain information that is similar to what is in the federal returns." What's next: The legislation called the TRUST Act will move to the New York State Assembly, where Democrats hold the majority, and then to the desk of Gov. Andrew Cuomo who has already expressed support for the bill. The big picture: House Ways and Means Chairman Richard Neal (D-Mass.) has led the charge at the national level to obtain Trump's 201318 federal tax returns. On Monday, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin officially turned down Neal's request, likely setting up a prolonged court battle. Go deeper: Tax return bills could kick Trump off the ballot in some blue states President Trump traveled to Florida on Wednesday to host a rally and visit those affected by Hurricane Michael, the Category 5 storm that hit the state in October 2018. But 7 months after the hurricane, disaster-relief funding remains at a standstill. Catch up quick: Relief funds have stalled as a back-and-forth unfolds between Trump and Congress, as sources familiar with the negotiations say they're stuck on the specific amount of funding for Puerto Rico, Axios' Alayna Treene reports. Context: Puerto Rico was ravaged by Hurricane Maria in 2017 and has struggled to receive adequate federal aid. Past efforts to advance relief funding for Hurricane Michael and other natural disasters have fallen apart over how much money to allocate to Puerto Rico, per NBC News. As Axios' Jonathan Swan reported in November, Trump has privately claimed, without evidence, that the island's government is using federal money to pay off debt. In February, Trump asked advisers to limit funds for Puerto Rico because be believes too much money has already been given to the territory, senior administration officials told the Washington Post. Trump has also falsely claimed that Puerto Rico received $91 billion in relief funding. According to the Washington Post, Puerto Rico has $40.8 billion allocated in funding. The alleged $91 billion was based on an internal Office of Management and Budget estimate for possible liabilities over the next 20 years. The latest: Sen. David Perdue's (R-Ga.) Trump-approved disaster relief bill failed last month, with Democrats arguing it didn't earmark enough money for Puerto Rico. In an effort to compromise with Democrats, Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) proposed an amendment to add $600 million in nutritional assistance to Puerto Rico, which they claim is not enough. Sources familiar with the talks tell Alayna that senators thought they would return from recess and move closer to a compromise, but haven't made any progress. What to watch: Expect Trump to face a series of questions on the status of disaster relief funding during his trip to Florida. Go deeper: Southeast, Midwest and Puerto Rico wait for federal disaster relief When Uber sold its China business to Didi Chuxing in 2016, the ride-hail giant thought it had taken care of its China problems. It was wrong, although this time the trouble isn't of its own making. What's new: Uber plans to price its mega-IPO on Thursday night, and begin trading Friday morning. The company is going public on the exact day that President Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports. Context: Uber is going public during a week in which the markets have been roiled by increased U.S.-China trade tensions. This could help explain why we haven't yet seen an increased IPO price range, despite widespread talk that the offering is already oversubscribed. This could still happen, but time is running short. What to watch: The biggest headache here is macro, although Uber's IPO registration does list two relevant risk factors: The imposition of duties, tariffs, and other charges on imports and exports, including with respect to imports and exports of dockless e-bikes and e-scooters from China. Disruption in the supply of certain hardware and components from our international suppliers, particularly those in China. Be smart: It's entirely possible that Trump is bluffing about his Friday deadline, or that his Twitter bluster is prelude to an agreement, as we saw with Canada/USMCA. But Uber won't really know until after it prices and, if Trump keeps his word, it would list into extremely bearish sentiment. The bottom line: For a company that waited so long to IPO, it might have inadvertently picked one of the worst possible times. Go deeper: Public markets take center stage with all eyes on Uber IPO Armenias imprisoned former President Robert Kocharian has predicted the emergence of a new and powerful opposition force in the country and said he will be involved in it. In written comments to the Reuters news agency published on Wednesday, Kocharian also reiterated that grave criminal charges leveled against him are politically motivated. This process will certainly lead to the creation of a powerful political force capable of challenging the authorities very soon, he said, writing from a detention center in Yerevan where he is being held. Asked if he will be personally involved in the emerging opposition, he replied: Yes, of course. But he did not give details about what form that involvement could take. Kocharian, who served as president from 1998-2008, announced his return to active politics shortly after spending about a month in jail last summer. He was again arrested in December. Kocharian and two retired army generals will go on trial soon on charges of overthrowing the constitutional order in the wake of a disputed presidential election held in February 2008. They are specifically accused of using the armed forces against opposition supporters that protested against alleged vote rigging. Eight protesters and two police servicemen were killed in street clashes that broke out in Yerevan late on March 1, 2008. Kocharian declared a state of emergency in the Armenian capital on that night. He completed his second presidential term and handed over power to Serzh Sarkisian, the official election winner and his preferred successor, in April 2008. Kocharian again defended the decisions he took during the 2008 protests. Order was restored only after the introduction of the state of emergency and thanks to it, he said. Not doing that would have meant official inaction on the part of the president. Sarkisian resigned in April 2018 amid mass protests against his attempt to extend his decade-long rule. The protest leader, Nikol Pashinian, was elected prime minister in May. Looking back at the peaceful protests, Kocharian said they were caused by accumulated discontent in the society and desire for change, but were not a revolution. I would not call it a revolution as fundamentally nothing has changed in the country, except for the appearance of a big share of aggression in the society, and populism and dilettantism in the leadership, he said in written answers to questions Reuters had sent to him. Critics have accused the 64-year-old ex-president and his former allies of cracking down on democracy, corruption and mismanagement during their time in power. They have denied those allegations. Iran rolls back nuclear commitments under pact abandoned by Washington President Hassan Rouhani speaks at a cabinet meeting in Tehran on Wednesday. Reuters, London : Iran announced on Wednesday it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear program under a 2015 deal with world powers, and threatened to do more-including enriching uranium to a higher level-if countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. A year after Washington pulled out of the nuclear deal with Iran, President Hassan Rouhani unveiled measures that do not appear to violate the deal's terms yet, but could do so in the future if Iran were to persist on the course he set out. Rouhani said Tehran would halt a program to sell excess enriched uranium and heavy water to other countries, an arrangement used under the nuclear deal to keep its own stockpiles below permitted caps. And he threatened that in 60 days Iran would resume enrichment of uranium beyond the low level permitted under the deal, unless the five other powers signed up to it find a way to protect Iran's oil and banking industries from U.S. sanctions. "If the five countries came to the negotiating table and we reached an agreement, and if they could protect our interests in the oil and banking sectors, we will go back to square one," Rouhani said. "The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA," he said, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. "These are actions in line with the JCPOA." Yerevans Mayor Hayk Marutian shelved on Wednesday his controversial plans to sharply raise his and his top subordinates salaries. Under a bill drafted by his office, Marutians monthly salary would rise from 575,000 drams to 1.2 million drams ($2,500). It calls for similarly drastic pay rises for his deputies and other high-ranking members of the mayors staff. A much larger number of other, lower and mid-ranking municipal workers would have their salaries raised by only around 30 percent. Citing this disparity, the two opposition groups represented in the city council were quick to reject the bill after it was made public last week. Some of the council members representing the ruling My Step alliance also strongly objected to it at a meeting with Marutian held on Monday. Marutian defended his plans, saying that they are primarily aimed at benefiting 1,700 or so people working for the municipal administration. He said that he would have liked to keep his own salary unchanged but is legally not allowed to do that. He insisted that the uneven wage increases are also mandated by Armenian law. Nevertheless, the well-to-do former TV comedian decided to remove the controversial bill from the agenda of a council session which was due to debate and vote on it. I want everyone to be convinced that this is the kind of document which we want to have We will widely discuss it, inform our population and then come back to this auditorium, he told the council controlled by My Step. Davit Khazhakian, a leader of the opposition Luys bloc, again accused Marutian of mismanagement and said Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian is also responsible for it. Khazhakian singled out a worsening situation with garbage collection in Yerevan. The 42-year-old mayor rejected the populist claims, saying that he needs more time to address a problem that hadnt been solved for 20 years. Marutian further claimed that the Yerevan municipality was Armenias most corrupt agency when he took over it in October as a result of My Steps victory in snap municipal elections. I can tell you for sure that systemic corruption in the mayors office does not exist anymore, he declared. A state body overseeing the Armenian judiciary on Wednesday took disciplinary action against two judges who recently refused to deal with the high-profile criminal case against former President Robert Kocharian. The judges of a district court in Yerevan, Nelly Baghdasarian and Harutiun Manukian, were assigned to rule on petitions regarding Kocharian pre-trial arrest which had been filed by his lawyers and prosecutors. They both decided to recuse themselves from the case. Baghdasarian attributed her decision to questions about her impartiality raised by the prosecution, while Manukian cited health reasons. The Supreme Judicial Council sanctioned them at the request of Armenias General Assembly of Judges. It accused Baghdasarian of serious misconduct and formally reprimanded her. For his part, Manukian received a more lenient warning. Gevorg Danielian, a member of the council, said neither judge had sufficient grounds to avoid taking up the case. Kocharian stands accused of overthrowing the constitutional order in the wake of a disputed 2008 presidential election. He and two retired Armenian army generals are due to go on trial soon. They deny the charges as politically motivated. Another Yerevan judge, Vartan Grigorian, refused to preside over the trial last week, citing a conflict of interest. He argued that he used to work for one of Kocharians lawyers, Ruben Sahakian. Danielian dismissed suggestions that Armenian judges are reluctant to deal with the politically sensitive case. The behavior of two or three judges is not enough to express an opinion about the entire judicial system, he told reporters. By Trend Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops 25 times, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said on May 8, Trend reports. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Abdul Kerimkhanov Relations of Azerbaijan and India are at a stage of a rather intensive development. Azerbaijan is interested in exporting non-oil products to India, said Shahin Mustafayev, Azerbaijani Economy Minister, at a meeting with Bawitlung Vanlalvawna, newly appointed Indian ambassador to Baku. Discussing the prospects for the development of the economic relations, Mustafayev noted the great potential of cooperation in the industry, energy, agriculture and tourism fields. The minister invited Indian companies to take advantage of favorable conditions for activities in industrial parks in Azerbaijan and called on Indian companies to create joint ventures with Azerbaijani companies. He noted that currently, as many as 230 companies with Indian capital operate in Azerbaijan, whose investments in the country's economy totaled $1.2 billion. "The trade turnover between Azerbaijan and India increased by 84 percent in 2018, and by the results of January-March 2019, it increased by 66 percent and reached $300 million," Mustafayev mentioned. He also stressed that a legal base was established between Azerbaijan and India, and work is underway on the agreement preparation on the promotion and mutual protection of investments. Mustafayev informed the Indian ambassador about projects implemented with the Azerbaijani participation, transit opportunities and advantages of transport corridors passing through the country. Diplomatic relations between India and Azerbaijan were established in 1993. The Indian embassy opened in Baku in 1999. Indian companies are interested in developing mutually beneficial partnership with Azerbaijan, particularly in agriculture, IT and communications, healthcare, pharmaceuticals and education. India and Azerbaijan also cooperate in the development of International North-South Transport Corridor, which will give a big boost to trade and commercial exchanges in the region. India developed the Chabahar port in Iran, which began operating in November 2017, and this port will link Indian ports with Azerbaijan and other countries. Azerbaijan is developing the non-oil sector and Indian companies are interested in using opportunities for non-oil sector development in such areas as agriculture, industry, pharmaceuticals and information technology. India is very strong in pharmaceutical sector and its companies are keen to enhance their presence in Azerbaijan. Sun Pharma of India is building a pharmaceutical factory near Baku within a joint venture with Azerbaijani partners. Indian companies are also interested in many incentives provided by the Azerbaijani Government for investors in technology and agro parks. --- Abdul Kerimkhanov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @AbdulKerim94 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend The Russian Railways Logistics JSC and the Turkish logistics operator Pacific Eurasia Logistics have agreed to establish a joint venture to develop logistics routes for cargo supply via the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway, Trend reports referring to the External Communications Department of the Russian Railways Logistics company. The corresponding memorandum was signed by First Deputy Director General of the Russian Railways Logistics company Eduard Alyrzaev and Director General of Pacific Eurasia Logistics Fatih Nusret Dur. The memorandum was concluded at the meeting between Director General and Chairman of the Executive Board of the Russian Railways company Oleg Belozerov and the heads of the Turkish and Azerbaijani railway companies, which was held in Ankara and was devoted to the development of regular rail traffic along the BTK route. The sides agreed that the the joint venture is established with the purpose of the further development of transport and logistics activity and trade between Russia and Turkey. The main tasks of JV will be the use of a cargo base in Russia and Turkey for cargo transportation along the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and rendering a wide range of logistics services to the customers. Special and sometimes even unique competences are required to successfully cope with the tasks of the logistics operator on the international transport corridors, and our company does possess such competences, Alyrzaev said. For a long time, we have been developing and improving the efficiency of "East-West" and "North-South" international transport corridors, as well as working to launch and promote the new Vietnam-Russia-Vietnam and Japan-Europe international transport corridors, he added. We are ready to share our knowledge and skills with our Turkish colleagues while establishing a joint venture in future, Alyrzaev said. These knowledge and skills will be useful for servicing such a promising route as Baku-Tbilisi Kars railway." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Leman Mammadova International Finance Corporation (IFC) will help Azerbaijani Government to develop investment policy and promotion framework, implement foreign direct investment (FDI) policy as well as diversify the economy and stimulate job creation. Azerbaijani Government and the IFC signed three cooperation agreements and three memorandums of understanding on the implementation of Azerbaijan Investment Climate and Agribusiness Competitiveness Project on May 8. The projects aims to help ease doing business and attract investment to Azerbaijans non-oil economy. In particular, the three cooperation agreements were signed with the Ministries of Economy and Agriculture and the Food Safety Agency. At the same time, three memorandums of understanding were signed with the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population, the Commission on Business Climate and International Rankings, and the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication. Azerbaijan Investment Climate and Agribusiness Competitiveness project is financed by the Government of Switzerland through the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and Austrian Ministry of Finance. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2020. Azerbaijan is already seeing the positive results of recent social-economic reforms and there are more to come. We are committed to continuing our efforts in diversifying the economy and developing non-oil sectors, including through our continued cooperation with IFC and benefiting from its global experience, Yagub Eyyubov, Deputy Prime Minister of Azerbaijan, said at the event. The agreements aim to help further streamline licensing and inspections regulations, support the government in developing an investment policy and promotion framework and implementing a national FDI strategy. The project will also help address challenges in the agribusiness sectoran important source of jobs and key to boosting non-oil growthby enhancing access to quality seeds, streamlining regulations along agribusiness value chains, and modernizing the national food safety management system, to help reduce the administrative burden on the private sector and increase food exports. Simone Haeberli, Chargee dAffaires of Embassy of Switzerland, Deputy Regional Director of Swiss Cooperation Office for the South Caucasus, noted that a healthy business environment and a conducive investment climate are key to private sector development and economic growth. At this stage in the ongoing reform process, we have witnessed and continue to witness that private sector development is a key priority for Azerbaijan and enjoys full support of the countrys leadership. Switzerland stands ready to further support the government of Azerbaijan in its efforts to develop a new economic model. Country needs to tap into new sources of growth to ensure a sustainable and resilient economy, and we are glad to see the government taking steps in this direction, said Jan Van Bilsen, IFC Senior Regional Manager for the Caucasus and the Russian Federation. Our advisory program aims to help local businesses grow, attract foreign investments to Azerbaijan and make regulations more business-friendly for local private companies, helping them expand and create more jobs. IFC, one of the World Bank Group Companies, includes 182 members. IFC promotes sustainable economic growth in developing countries through financing private sector investment, directing capital to international financial markets, and consulting services to companies and governments. IFC helps companies and financial institutions to create jobs in emerging markets, improve tax revenues, improve corporate governance and environmental protection, and contribute to local communities. Azerbaijan became a member of IFC in 1995. Since then, IFC has invested around $473 million in the country, of which $73 million was mobilized from other lenders. The funds have financed 56 long-term projects across a range of sectors, including financial services, infrastructure, and manufacturing. In addition, IFC has supported around $100 million in trade through its trade finance program, and provided $250 million for the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. IFC has also implemented a range of advisory projects aimed at encouraging private sector growth. Recently, IFC made proposals for creating a mechanism for supporting the dialogue between the private and public sectors of Azerbaijan. One of them deals with the improvement of the overall investment climate, and the second with providing support in drafting and introducing amendments to the legislation, evaluating their impact on the business environment and the economy as a whole. --- Leman Mammadova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @leman_888 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Mirsaid Ibrahimzade The Second ANIMAFILM Baku International Animation Festival will be held in the capital of Azerbaijan from October 18 to 20, Rashid Aghamaliyev, ANIMAFILM Director, told Trend Life. He noted that the motto of the festival is New view on tradition and development. This year, applications for the festival can be sent through FilmFreeway the large platform for sending works to festivals. ANIMAFILM festival will include such categories as Best Short Animated Film (up to 20 minutes), Best Azerbaijani Short Animated Film (up to 20 minutes), Best Short Animated Film for Children (up to 10 minutes), Best original screenplay for a short animated film (up to 6,000 characters) and Audience Award. The festivals international jury will be headed by Masud Panachi. There will also be a jury including children. The jury will award the winners with the "Golden Boat" award. The Audience Award will be awarded based on the results of the audience vote. Counting of votes will be carried out under the guidance of the organizing committee of the festival. During the three days, the festival will show dozens of foreign and national animated films for children and adults. The goal of the organizers is to create an annual event that would delight the local and foreign audience and professionals, as well as to promote the development of animation art in Azerbaijan. The First ANIMAFILM Baku International Animation Festival was held in October 2018. As many as 480 films and 15 screenplays from 63 different countries around the world were presented to the two international and one local contests of the festival. The winners of the festival were announced on the third day of the competition, at the closing ceremony on 21 October, 2018. The winners were awarded with Golden Boat. The winner of the Best Short Animated Film competition was Louise Bagnall from Ireland for her animated film Late Afternoon. The winner of " Best Azerbaijani Short Animated Film" award was Samir Salahov, the director of the film "Continuity". Zeynab Ghorbani Faryad won the second international award Best Original Screenplay for her script The Nakhkesh. -- Mirsaid Ibrahimzade is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @MirsaidIbrahim1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Laman Ismayilova The third Arts Olympiad, bringing together young talents, has been held in Baku. The Olympiad aims at promotion of young talents and cultural exchange. The project was co-organized by the Azerbaijan Dance Association with the support of the Jam Group and the State Arts Gymnasium, Trend Life reported. President of the Azerbaijan Dance Association Aziz Azizov said that the two-day competition was attended by 3,600 young talents from Baku, country's regions and foreign states. The number of participants in the piano nominations was increased. Competitions in such directions as piano, pop vocals, acoustic vocals, acoustics, flute, fiction, drama, saz, tar, violin, folk musical instruments, trumpet, khanende singing, drums, clarinet, kamancha, oboe, etc. were held at the Rashid Behbudov State Song Theater. Meanwhile, dance competitions including cheerleading, hip-hop, break dance, dance show, classical dance, folk dance, folk stylization, world dance, oriental dance, Indian (Bollywood) dance were held at the Azerbaijan Theater Workers Union. The jury evaluated the participants on the technique of performance, composition and image. The Arts Olympiad was held in various age categories: preschoolers (up to 6 years), children (up to 10 years), teenagers (up to 16 years), and adults (16 years old and older). Young talents performed solo, in duets, small groups (up to 8 participants), ensembles (8-24 participants) and large ensembles (25-50 participants). Media partners of the event are Azernews.az, Trend.az, Day.az, Milli.az. --- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Abdul Kerimkhanov Although there have been much expectations from the new government of Armenia that came to power after a velvet revolution last April, nothing new has changed in the process of solution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. There has been much speculation about the meaning of the so-called velvet revolution in Armenia in 2018, in Baku, Moscow, Washington, Ankara, Paris and London, Thomas Goltz, journalist, professor at the University of Montana, believes. Goltz refrained to comment on fundamental differences in the visions over the solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict demonstrated by previous Armenian authorities and the post-revolutionary team of Pashinyan, preferring to "wait and see". I refrain to join the speculators' Club, he said in an interview with Azernews. He noted that the Armenian governments attempt to include the so-called Nagorno-Karabakh representatives to the negotiation process is a delaying tactic for more than 25 years. He was commenting on the persistent statements of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan about the need to involve the puppet authorities of the so-called "Nagorno-Karabakh Republic" in the negotiation process. Goltz said the Armenian authorities beginning from Levon Ter Petrosyan to Nikol Pashinyan have consistently tried to include the so-called "Artsakh" in the Azerbaijani-Armenian peace negotiations, so the statement of current authorities is nothing new. Azerbaijan rejects to include the self-proclaimed entity in Karabakh in the peace talks, referring to previously agreed format of negotiations between the parties through mediation of the OSCE Minsk Group. At the same time, Goltz stressed that the Armenians were clearly surprised and disappointed with the April 2016 clashes. As to the last statement of the Armenian Defense Minister David Tonoyan about the possibility of moving military operations to the territory of Azerbaijan, he underlined that a senior minister of any government in the world, particularly a defense minister, must be taken seriously by its rivals, including Azerbaijani one. 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. The UN Security Council adopted relevant resolutions related to the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. --- Abdul Kerimkhanov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @AbdulKerim94 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Mirsaid Ibrahimzade Baku Metro, which was put into operation in 1967, will soon be expanded with new stations. The third station of the violet line of the Baku Metro will be commissioned next year, head of the press service of Baku Metro Bakhtiyar Mammadov told Trend. He said that currently, work continues on the design of the Khojahasan depot. Infrastructure will be constructed behind this station, which will allow the transition of trains from one route to another. This process requires an increase in the number of trains and the partial commissioning of the Khojahasan depot so accelerated work is underway on the design of this part of the depot, he noted. Mammadov added that this year the construction of the second tunnel from the Avtovagzal station to the Khojahasan depot has started and noted that the first tunnel was built last year. He said that in the coming months, the construction of the second tunnel will be completed, and other infrastructure works will begin. On April 19, 2016, the first two stations (Avtovagzal and Memar Ajami) of the violet line of the Baku Metro were put into operation. The distance between these two stations is 2.07 km. A total of 12 stations are planned to be built on the line. All stations of the violet line are capable of receiving trains consisting of seven railcars. Speaking about renovation of trains, Mammadov said that starting from July this year, new railcars will be supplied for Baku Metro. He emphasized that 30 railcars will be delivered this year and these railcars completely meet the requirements of Baku Metro. They are also equipped with air conditioning and electronics that meet other modern standards. Mammadov also pointed out that the use of old railcars will be stopped after the end of their useful life period. He further noted that Baku Metro has purchased new ventilation units to improve the air supply of metro stations. Two units are being installed at the Gara Garayev station. Five more will be installed in accordance with the plan, including at the stations Memar Ajami, Nizami and in its tunnel, Mammadov said. Currently, Baku Metro has 25 stations on three lines Green, Red and Purple. Baku Metro is 36.63 km in length. By 2030, it is planned to expand the infrastructure of Baku Metro and create a giant underground transport network consisting of 76 stations, six electric depots, and five lines with a total length of 119.1 km. The fare for using metro is flat-rate, 0.30 manats. -- Mirsaid Ibrahimzade is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @MirsaidIbrahim1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Saudi sisters who fled to Georgia granted "new home" AFP, Tbilisi : Two Saudi sisters who fled to Georgia saying they feared being killed if they returned home posted on social media Tuesday that they have now obtained Georgian passports and are moving to a third country. The women, who identified themselves as 28-year-old Maha Alsubaie and 25-year-old Wafa Alsubaie, wrote on Twitter account @GeorgiaSisters2, "we are on our way to start a new life in a new country". The sisters, who appealed for help via social media last month, are the latest to flee the Islamic kingdom where they say they feared for their lives. "Finally we are going to another country, We have a new home, we have to start our new life," said Wafa in a video that shows the pair at Tbilisi airport. They wave Georgian passports and smile broadly in the video, while saying on Twitter that they would not give details of where they are moving to "for a little while". The Georgian interior ministry told AFP they could not comment on whether the women had left the country because information about asylum seekers is confidential. The ministry however confirmed the women were safe as did a Georgian rights NGO that has worked with the women, Article 42 of the Constitution. Last month, the women pleaded for international protection saying they were "trapped in Georgia" after Saudi authorities cancelled their passports. By Trend President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have arrived in Gobustan district for a visit, Trend reports referring to the Azerbaijani presidential press-service. The president and First Lady laid flowers at a statue of national leader Heydar Aliyev in Gobustan. Head of Gobustan Executive Authority Adil Mammadov informed President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva of the work carried out in the region. President Aliyev gave relevant instructions. *** President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have attended the inauguration of Gobustan Central Hospital. The president first cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the hospital. Minister of Health Ogtay Shiraliyev informed the president and First Lady of the conducted work. The hospital was built in 1965. The construction of the new building of the hospital started in 2014, and ended in 2018. President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva viewed conditions created at the hospital. The 90-bed hospital occupies an area of more than 2.6 hectares. The hospital was supplied with the state-of-the-art medical equipment and devices. The hospital employs 26 doctors and 51 medical workers. President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva then met with the hospital staff. The president made a speech at the meeting. *** President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have attended the opening of the Gobustan branch of "Azerkhalcha" Open Joint Stock Company. President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva viewed the unique Azerbaijani carpets of 19th and early 20th centuries. The president then cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the branch. Chairman of the Board of "Azharkhalcha" OJSC Vidadi Muradov informed President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva of the conducted work. The Gobustan branch of the "Azerkhalcha" OJSC occupies an area nearly 1,300 square meters. Thus, 150 weavers and 14 administrative staff members will be employed in the branch. The building features a textile workshop, artist`s room, warehouse, canteen, medical point, sales room and a conference hall. After viewing the branch, President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva met with carpet-weavers. The president addressed the meeting. President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva then viewed the activity of the "Azharkhalcha" OJSC supply center for Gobustan regional wool and dye plants. The center occupies a total area of 1,770 square metres and features a production and administrative departments. The Gobustan regional wool and dye plants supply center created 25 permanent jobs. The president talked to center employees and posed for photographs together with them. *** President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have attended the inauguration of Gobustan-Poladli highway. Chairman of the Board of Directors of Azerbaijan Highway State Agency Saleh Mammadov informed the president and First Lady of the conducted work. The two-lane road, which links six residential areas with a total population of 5,000 people, is 14.5 km in length, and 6m in width. President Aliyev cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the highway. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Leman Mammadova A meeting of the National Oil Committee of Azerbaijan dedicated to the past year's activities and the forthcoming tasks was held in Baku under the chairmanship of Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov on May 8. Shahbazov said at the meeting that Azerbaijan may host the 24th World Petroleum Congress in 2023 and added that the role of the National Committee in this initiative is very important. The minister stressed that great responsibility falls upon the National Oil Committee in terms of Bakus getting support for holding this event. Speaking about the oil production in the country, he said that so far, 2.06 billion tons of oil has been produced. In his words, 746 million tons of this volume was extracted after regaining independence. "About 770,000 barrels of oil is produced daily in Azerbaijan," he added. The minister also pointed to the importance of Azerbaijan in the world oil market, adding that the country exports oil via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline. With the start of gas production at the Shah Deniz field, Azerbaijan has also become a gas producing country. In addition, Azerbaijan will provide gas to Europe through the Southern Gas Corridor starting in 2020," he said. In turn, Deputy Energy Minister Elnur Soltanov noted that the candidacy of the city where the 24th World Petroleum Congress will be held will be determined by secret ballot in June this year in St. Petersburg (Russia). Along with Azerbaijan, Canada, the UAE, Argentina and Kazakhstan are also nominated to host the congress. At the meeting of the National Oil Committee, future plans and work of the committee were also discussed. The Azerbaijan National Oil Committee was established in 2005 and in the same year became a member of the World Petroleum Council (WPC) at a congress in Johannesburg, South Africa. The main organizer of the World Petroleum Congress, being held every three years, is the World Petroleum Council, established in 1933. The congress is an international platform for discussing important issues of the oil and gas industry and making important decisions. The Council, which brings together 65 member states, covers 96 percent of oil and gas producers and consumers worldwide. Every three years, thousands of specialists from all over the world gather at this forum in order to get acquainted with the most modern technologies of oil and gas production and methods of managing this business. After the National Oil Committee meeting, Minister Shahbazov told reporters that since April 2019, Azerbaijan has started fulfilling its commitments under the OPEC+ agreement. Azerbaijan agreed to cut daily oil production to 776,000 barrels as part of the OPEC+ agreement. The average daily oil production reached 793,000 barrels in January, 806,000 barrels in February and 798,000 barrels in March. At a press conference following the meeting of the OPEC/non-OPEC Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC) in Baku in March 2019, Shahbazov said that the indicators of Azerbaijans compliance with the OPEC+ agreement to reduce oil production will be even better. "For two and a half years Azerbaijan has exceeded its obligations under the OPEC+ agreement. Last December, we made new commitments. We remain committed to our obligations. Following the results of the first half of 2019, Azerbaijan will completely fulfill its obligations under OPEC+. Next month there will be even better results," the minister said back then. An agreement was reached to reduce daily oil production by 1.2 million barrels at the 5th OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting in Vienna on December 7, 2018. Azerbaijan also supported the decision to reduce oil production and joined the agreement to support the process of world oil market regulation. As part of the agreement, Azerbaijan has reduced daily production by 20,000 barrels since January 1, 2019. --- Leman Mammadova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @leman_888 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Abdul Kerimkhanov Although the Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has previously said about the population growth and elimination of the negative tendency in the demographic situation, the data of the National Statistical Service for the first quarter of 2019 tell the opposite. As of April 1, 2019, the Armenian population decreased by 7,800 people compared to the same period of 2018. At the same time, compared with the beginning of the year, the country's population decreased by 3,200 people due to the negative migration balance excess totalling 3,900 people over the natural increase of 700 people. The number of Armenia's urban population is 1.89 million (a decline of 1,100). In Yerevan, the figure is 1.08 million inhabitants. In rural areas, the population decreased by 6,700 people to 1,07 million people. Moreover, in the first quarter of 2019, as many as 8,042 children were born in Armenia, which is 3.1 percent less than the same period in 2018, according to the National Statistical Service. At the same time, the number of deaths increased by 3.4 percent to 7,373 during this period. Armenian Prime Minister believed that after the velvet revolution the Armenian citizens who went abroad will return to their homeland. However, this did not happen and very soon the situation returned as it was under the previous authorities. Many people who arrived in Armenia in the April revolution days and after it has gone away. As the data of the current year shows, Armenians left Armenia under the former regime and continue to leave it under the new regime. One of the reasons for population decrease is undoubtedly an increase in the departure of entire families from Armenia forever. Armenian men do not want to serve in the army because of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, that emerged after Armenia's illegal territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Children from socially disadvantaged Armenian families are sent to serve in the occupied Azerbaijani lands in Nagorno-Karabakh and become victims of the Armenian leadership's interests. Over the past 29 years, the Armenian population has decreased by more than 1.5 million (in 1990, the population was 3.57 million people). If to charge on figures one can assume that the remaining population in Armenia is hostage to Pashinyans interests. Thus, the development of events makes it possible to say that until 2040, Armenians will not be able to fulfil the wishes of Serzh Sargsyan, who set a target to the government to bring the number of population to 4 million people. According to the UN report on demographic forecasts for individual countries, which describes the dynamics of the change in the population, Armenia's population will be 1.8 million people in 2100. By Trend Turkmen-Russian high-level negotiations were held in Ashgabat on May 7, 2019, Trend reports referring to the Turkmen Embassy in Azerbaijan. The delegation of the Russian Federation headed by Deputy Chairman of the Government, Head of State Administration Konstantin Chuychenko arrived in Turkmenistan to participate in the talks. In the first half of the day, the Russian delegation was received by President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov. During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues related to Turkmen-Russian relations in political, trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian spheres. Then, the 11th session of Intergovernmental Turkmen-Russian Commission on Economic Cooperation was held in the premises of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan. During the session, the parties spoke about the key aspects of bilateral cooperation, particularly issues of trade and economic nature. The participants elaborated on the subjects related to the development of mutually beneficial cooperation between profile ministries and agencies of the two countries, implementation of agreements, as well as talked about the process of executing trade actions. The parties considered the joint projects, issues related to the work of Russian companies on the territory of Turkmenistan, as well as prospects of cooperation in the industry, construction, transport, oil and gas, gas-chemical and electro-energy spheres. Upon completion of the session, the ceremony of signing bilateral documents took place. These included: Protocol of the 11th session of Intergovernmental Turkmen-Russian Commission on Economic Cooperation, Memorandum between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan and the Government of Astrakhan region on establishing a Turkmen-Astrakhan Joint Council on commercial issues, Agreement between All-Russia State Institute of cinematography named after S.A.Gerasimov and State Committee of Turkmenistan for Television, Radiobroadcasting and Cinematography on Cooperation in the area of elevating the qualifications of Turkmen specialists, Agreement between the Federal State Budgetary Establishment Moscow Helmholtz Research Institute of Eye Diseases of the Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation and the Scientific-Clinical Centre of Eye Diseases of the State Medical University of Turkmenistan named after Murad Garriyev. It is worthwhile to note that the day before, on May 6, 2019, the meeting of experts of the two countries was held in the framework of preparations to the above mentioned meeting. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new social-industrial complex in the area around the Altyn Asyr lake, Trend reports with reference to the Turkmenistan State News Agency. The area is located in the Balkan region of Turkmenistan. The concept for the development of the area around the artificial lake Altyn Asyr in 2019-2025 has been approved. The project includes construction of social infrastructure, production facilities, livestock, fish breeding and agricultural complexes. This unique structure, located in the center of the Karakum desert, besides its ecological and national economic mission, is of tremendous social importance, the whole extent of which is difficult to be assessed, since this mega-project implies a long-term multiplicative effect. This project is estimated at several billion US dollars. This cave is located in the territory of the Balkan region, and it holds about 580 million cubic meters of accumulated water there. The water can also be used on lands that are resistant to salinization, and the work can be intensified to develop fisheries, animal breeding, in particular, camel breeding in areas adjacent to the lake. The collector-drainage discharges formed within the Mary, Akhal and Balkan regions previously accumulated in the lowlands of Karakum sands, flooding and, among other things, reducing the desert pastures. Turkmen scientists believe that the creation of a large artificial reservoir in Karakum will improve the reclamation state of irrigated areas of Turkmenistan, increase the productivity of agriculture and prevent soil salinization. ---- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz By Trend On May 8, 2019, a briefing was held in the framework of the events dedicated to the foundation laying of the new, social-production complex in Serdar province of the Balkan region, Trend reports with reference to Turkmenistans Embassy in Baku. This event was organized with the aim of informing the larger community about the Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr, including its significance in the sphere of environment protection and development of social-economic system of Turkmenistan and the region in general. The high-level foreign guests, heads and representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited in Turkmenistan, international organizations and programs, international experts, as well as the representatives of national and foreign mass media took part in the briefing. The authorized representatives of UN agencies and OSCE gave speeches during the briefing where they specifically noted the significance and scale of the man-made Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr that is being constructed in the heart of the Karakum valley. Then the Scientific-practical conference was held dedicated to the importance of Turkmen Lake which is a grand hydro-technical project aimed at the amelioration of environment, including the rational use of water and land resources. The key officials of Turkmen higher educational institutions, scholars, experts, as well as the representatives of national mass media attended the conference. During the conference, it was noted that Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr will undoubtedly make a vital input to the development of social and economic system of the country. After the events, the excursion by boat and bus along the Turkmen Lake Altyn Asyr was organized for the participants of the event that was also complemented by a promenade. Here, the participants could get acquainted firsthand with the transformations in the Karakum valley that took place after the construction of the reservoir that is being replenished by wastewaters from the agricultural fields of the country. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Pompeo briefs Iraqi leaders on US security concerns over Iran US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (L) meets Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi in Baghdad on Wednesday. Reuters, Baghdad : U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Baghdad on Tuesday and met Iraq's prime minister and other top officials to discuss the safety of Americans in Iraq and explain U.S. security concerns amid rising Iranian activity. The visit came two days after U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said the United States was deploying the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and a bomber task force to the region because of a "credible threat by Iranian regime forces". Washington has ramped up sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear program in recent months and designated the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist group. "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country," Pompeo told reporters after meeting Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi. Abdul Mahdi said the United States was an important strategic partner for Iraq, but stressed that Baghdad was continuing to seek a balanced relationship with all of its "friends and neighbors, including neighboring Iran". "Iraq is building its relationships with all on the basis of putting Iraq's interests first," said a statement from his office released on Wednesday. Pompeo said the purpose of the meeting was to also let Iraqi officials know more about "the increased threat stream that we had seen" so they could effectively protect U.S. forces. Pompeo said he expressed U.S. support for Iraqi sovereignty, noting: "We don't want anyone interfering in their country, certainly not by attacking another nation inside of Iraq." Asked before the meetings if there was a threat to the Baghdad government from Iran that raised U.S. concerns about Iraqi sovereignty, Pompeo said, "No, no, generally this has been our position since the national security strategy came out in the beginning of the Trump administration." Asked about the decision to move the aircraft carrier and bomber task force to the region, Pompeo said Washington wanted to defend its interests from the Iranian threat and ensure it had the forces necessary to accomplish that goal. "The message that we've sent to the Iranians, I hope, puts us in a position where we can deter and the Iranians will think twice about attacking American interests," Pompeo said, noting that the U.S. intelligence was "very specific" about "attacks that were imminent." He said the United States has urged Iraq to move quickly to bring Iranian-influenced independent militias under central government control, noting that they make Iraq "a less stable nation." BOGURA: Students of Armed Police Battalion School and College showing V-sign for their success in SSC examination on Monday. Saves time with functionality, modelling and data pre-processing Makes model data easier to interpret for better process control Mines data to help optimize product quality, resource use and cost efficiency GOETTINGEN, Germany and MALMO, Sweden, May 08, 2019 / B3C newswire / -- Sartorius Stedim Biotech (SSB), a leading international partner of the biopharmaceutical industry today announced the new SIMCA 16 software for multivariate data analytics is available from its subsidiary Sartorius Stedim Data Analytics. The updated SIMCA focuses on delivering a complete data analysis experience, from data organization through to data-driven decision making, supported by multivariate models for single and multiblock analysis. The new SIMCA 16 software has enhanced functionality features which will save time for expert users, as well as those new to multivariate data analysis. Usability improvements provide novices with an intuitive introduction to SIMCA and existing users with superior plot interactivity and quick raw data visualization capabilities. The softwares updated graphical interface with its context-based ribbons and panes means scientists will spend less time looking for functions and the new ribbons will be especially useful for those working with batch data. The new data analytics software also includes a wizard that adapts to users modelling objectives (rather than focusing on which algorithm to use) and guides them through set-up, making the initial steps of creating each model easier. Additionally, its advanced data merging functionality saves time by eliminating the need to manually combine and align data in Excel. To make pattern data in models easier to interpret and use, SIMCA 16 comes with novel score space exploration and multivariate solver tools which help turn models into real-life factor combinations. In just one click, the score space exploration tool allows users to convert scatter plots into real factor settings to for example, detect which sample is missing in a stack of observations. With the multivariate solver tool, scientists can determine optimum factor settings for desired process outputs such as Critical Quality Attributes and can also lock model parameters to a specific batch of raw material to find the process parameters for achieving consistent product quality and operational efficiency. Both tools make trouble shooting process data and performing deviation analysis simpler tasks. To increase application and functional flexibility, SIMCA 16 includes MOCA, a novel tool for analyzing more than two blocks of data and new Python plugin capability. MOCA provides a quick overview of an entire system, delivering invaluable information for continuing analysis, and is ideal for scientists such as systems biologists wanting to compare data from one system that has been obtained using different omics and other techniques. The Python plugin functionality in SIMCA 16 provides greater workflow flexibility by enabling users to create a file reader plugin which can read files like any other file format as they are being imported. This is especially useful when scientists need to transfer data from a new instrument with a non-standard export format or from text files where data is not configured correctly for SIMCA, saving them time and effort with pre-processing and importing data. Developing and producing biotherapeutics generates a vast array of process data in different formats from a variety of equipment types. This data holds the key to improving performance but can be challenging to input, model and interpret, said Stefan Rannar, Product Manager at Sartorius Stedim Data Analytics. Were pleased to introduce our new SIMCA 16 because it offers elevated levels of control over data, model generation and decision making, enabling scientists to optimize resource use and cost efficiency, while more importantly, achieving consistency in their product quality, he added. The use of SIMCA is recognized by the EMA and US FDA for Real-Time Release testing and the SIMCA 16 software have been developed and extensively tested and validated for use in a highly-regulated environment. Image file Caption: Sartorius Stedim Biotech introduces new SIMCA 16 software for Multivariate Data Analytics Download link for high res picture: SIMCA 16 software For more details or to download the latest version of SIMCA, scientists should go to this link: https://landing.umetrics.com/downloads-simca Follow Sartorius Stedim Biotech on Twitter @Sartorius_Group and on LinkedIn. About Sartorius Stedim Biotech Sartorius Stedim Biotech is a leading international partner of the biopharmaceutical industry. As a total solutions provider, the company helps its customers to manufacture biotech medications safely, rapidly and economically. Headquartered in Aubagne, France, Sartorius Stedim Biotech is quoted on the Eurolist of Euronext Paris. With its own manufacturing and R&D sites in Europe, North America and Asia and an international network of sales companies, Sartorius Stedim Biotech has a global reach. The Group has been annually growing by double digits on average and has been regularly expanding its portfolio by acquisitions of complementary technologies. In 2018, the company earned sales revenue of 1,212.2 million, and currently employs some 5,800 people. Contact Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH Dominic Grone Trade Press Manager +49(0)551.308.3324 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. www.sartorius-stedim.com Published by B3C newswire and shared through Newronic List of priests Here is the full list of names of priests accused of sexual abuse provided by SNAP through the website bishopaccountability.org Fr. William Allison Fr. Gaspar Bautista Fr. Brian Bjorklund Fr. John Bradley Fr. Tod Brown Fr. Stuart Campbell Fr. Hermy Ceniza Fr. James Collins Fr. Basil Congro Fr Donald Farmer Fr. Don Flickinger Fr. Miguel Flores Fr. Benjamin Gabriel Fr. Robert Gamel Fr. Louis Garcia Fr. Craig Harrison Fr. Anthony Herdegen Fr. John Lastiri Fr. Vincent O' Connell Fr. Joseph Pacheco Fr. Thomas Purcell Fr. Eric Swearingen Wayward Fizz a concern for Bangladesh Amid a near perfect performance against West Indies in their tri-nation series opener, the only spot of bother for Bangladesh was the bowling of Mustafizur Rahman. Adorably dubbed as the 'Cutter Master', Mustafizur gave away 84 runs in his 10 overs and picked up two wickets in the later stages of the innings. It particularly looked too weird, especially when no other bowlers went for even over 5 runs per over. Mashrafe Bin Mortaza had figures of 10-0-49-3, Saifuddin 10-1-47-2 while the spinners duo Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz conceded just 33 and 38 runs respectively in their 10 overs to manage one wicket apiece. Therefore it raised a question. A bowler might have a one day off in the ground but this is not for the first time for the Fizz, as he was called. Mustafizur conceded 92 runs - the second most by a Bangladeshi bowler in ODIs after Shafiul Islam (96) - in his previous game against New Zealand at Dunedin earlier this year. However amid Mustafizur's wayward bowling, Bangladesh managed to get off to a good start in the tri-series tournament with a crushing eight-wicket victory over West Indies. A group of local longshoremen briefly stopped working on Tuesday after accusing a shipping company of discriminating against female workers by forcing their male colleagues with more seniority to do their jobs. The dispute between the International Longshoremens Association Local 21 and James J. Flanagan Stevedores remains even after work was resumed around noon, local president Walter Mullens said. He accused Flanagan supervisors of refusing to allow women onto the ships it is under contract to unload. He said that can force workers with seniority to take on harder work while qualified female workers are given easier duties, upsetting the seniority system much of the union is built on. The issue has been the interpretation of work as directed, Mullens said. We believe it means supervision can tell a person assigned to a job where and how to do that job, but their interpretation is being able to take the oldest person on the job and make them do the hardest job under the contract. Mullens said its not just male members with seniority who feel they are working under objectionable conditions. A lot of our women are upset about this, he said. They arent going down there looking for a freebie. They go shoulder to shoulder with our men and do their duty like anyone else. He said the union has had a considerable number of women since the early 1990s. James J. Flanagan Stevedores denied any discrimination against female workers. Christina Crawford, speaking for company owner Tom Ferguson, said the issue is not gender but finding the best qualified workers for particular jobs. Our contract with International Longshoremans Association gives the employer the right to direct work as necessary and to place workers at our discretion, the company said in a statement. The company also accused the ILA of violating its work contract by refusing to work as directed and by ignoring a clause that prohibits strikes. It cited safety as its top priority. Although locals operate autonomously, the president of the ILAs South Atlantic and Gulf Coast District, which covers workers from Brownsville to Morehead City, North Carolina, agreed to meet with Ferguson. District president Allen Rob acknowledged that seniority rules have complicated operations for ports across the county. The maritime business is very cyclical; one day you may need three people and the next you need 103, Rob said. Collectively, we are faced with keeping a skilled workforce on call and ready to go that are productive, qualified and certified. Because workers with seniority get the first pick for jobs, they may have to leave for a contract that pays more and a new worker comes onto the bulkhead job halfway through. Rob said talks could quickly be arranged between the local chapter and the company to hammer out a contract that will better define the question of work as directed and make sure the company receives consistent and qualified workers when they were needed. Regardless of any compromise made on certain aspects of the supervision or seniority system, Rob said the union would not condone any gender discrimination. In our opinion, we want to supply qualified, skilled people based on their qualification and not their gender, he said. If what we need to do is come up with a qualifying criteria for all individuals, thats what we need to do but it cant be gender based. jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com twitter.com/jdickjournalism Addl IGP Rowshan's body to be brought home today Staff Reporter : The body of Additional Inspector General of Police (IGP) Rowshan Ara, who was killed in a road crash in Congo's Kinshasha on Monday, will be brought home on Thursday morning. Police Headquarters said, the body of Rowshan Ara Begum, also Rector of Bangladesh Police Staff College, is scheduled to arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at around 5:00am by a flight of Turkish Airways. First namaz-e-janaza of late police officer will be held at Moghbazar Noatola Jame Mosque at around 10:00 am, 2nd janaza at Moghbazar Wireless Jame Mosque at around 12:00 pm and third one at Rajarbag Police Lines SI Shiru Mia auditorium after Johor prayers, said AIG (Media) of Police Headquarters Md Sohel Rana. Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, IGP Dr Javed Patwary, Public Security Division Secretary of the Home Ministry, and members of police, relatives, friends and well-wishers of the deceased will attend the janaza, he said. Two Beaumont high school students accused in the fatal shooting of a West End business owner were indicted Wednesday by a Jefferson County grand jury. John James Cook, 18, and Jamirious Jantrel Gardner, 17, have each been charged with first-degree murder. If convicted, they face up to 99 years in prison. Cook and Gardner are two of four people accused in the April 11 shooting of Anthony Wilson. Wilson, 37, was killed near his home after he interrupted an attempted burglary on his vehicle, police reports say. He followed the suspects before he was fatally shot in the 6800 block of Madrid Drive. His truck was then stolen, but later recovered. According to a probable cause affidavit, Gardner "gave a sworn statement against his penal interests, admitting to being involved in the shooting death of victim Wilson." He reportedly admitted to taking Wilson's vehicle, and implicated Cook, the document states. The oldest of the four suspects, Bernard James Bell, was indicted May 1 on federal firearm violations. Bell, 26, was not at the scene but disposed of the murder weapon, according to an affidavit filed with the U.S. Attorney's Office. The same document claims Bell's 15-year-old brother "confessed to shooting the victim," and told detectives he had given the gun to his brother for disposal. The gun was later recovered from a dumpster at Bell's Major Drive apartment complex, the affidavit says. The 15-year-old is facing capital murder charges, according to previous information from the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office. Monique Batson is the Day City Editor for the Beaumont Enterprise. Contact her at MBatson@BeaumontEnterprise.com or on Twitter by clicking here. Here are four recent updates from anesthesia and pain groups: Lawrenceburg, Ind.-based Highpoint Health selected Seven Hills Anesthesia as its surgical sedation services provider. Canton-based Georgia Interventional Pain-E is seeking state approval to own and operate an ASC dedicated to anesthesiology and pain medicine. Three groups have joined Melville, N.Y.-based North American Partners in Anesthesia since Jan. 1: Prince Frederick, Md.-based CalvertHealth Medical Center, Bethesda, Md.-based Aisthesis Partners in Anesthesia Care and Exeter (N.H.) Hospital. All five acquisitions Vancouver, Canada-based CRH Medical Corp. made in 2018 were in its anesthesia segment. The purchases amounted to $27,509,811 in cash and costs incurred. Two students open fire at Colorado school, killing 1, wounding 8 Reuters : Two male students armed with handguns burst into a Denver-area school and opened fire on Tuesday, killing one classmate and wounding eight before being taken into custody, law enforcement officials said. Two surviving victims of the attack at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, a Denver suburb, remained in serious condition, medical officials said. Others were stable or had been discharged from hospital. An 18-year-old male was pronounced dead at the scene, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said a short time later. "Two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school, and engaged students in two separate locations," Spurlock said. He told Reuters in a brief interview that the suspects, each armed with a handgun, opened fire in two separate classrooms. Devon Erickson, 18, was named as one of the suspects, while the other was identified only as a juvenile. The school serves students from kindergarten through to 12th grade. Television images showed police vehicles gathered outside a suburban house about 2 miles (1.2 km) from the school, where Erickson was believed to live. Police towed a white car with "F*CK SOCIETY" spray painted in blue on one side away from the house. 'ENGAGED SUSPECTS' Sheriff's deputies arrived at the school, located about 25 miles (40 km) south of Denver, within two minutes of the first reports, Spurlock said, and "engaged the suspects." Police dispatch tapes recorded officers looking for one suspect with black hair wearing a Nirvana hoodie and one with purple and black hair and a black hoodie. Law enforcement officials declined to comment on a possible motive for the rampage, saying it was too early in the course of the investigation, which was being assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Colorado ABC affiliate Denver 7 reported a combination of factors, including revenge and anger, spurred the attack. One suspect faced bullying for wanting to change from female to male and identifying as a male, the station said, citing law enforcement sources. The shooting occurred less than a month after the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre in nearby Littleton, about 5 miles (8 km) from the Highlands Ranch school. Two Columbine students killed 13 people there in 1999 before committing suicide in what remains one of the deadliest school shootings in US history. An Overland Park, Kan.-based medical office building housing Mid-America Surgery Center was sold for $15.4 million. Three quick points: 1. CNL Healthcare Properties II sold the facility to Overland Park MOB, an affiliate of HCP Medical Office Buildings. 2. CNL, a real estate investment trust, paid $14 million for the building in 2017. 3. The sale is expected to generate net sales of about $9.5 million, which CNL will use to pay down debt. Although Florida has passed several healthcare-related measures, one group is feeling left out of the state's healthcare reform efforts: advanced practice nurses, local news affiliate WJHG reports. What you should know: 1. Advanced practice nurses lobbied heavily for legislative reform around full-practice authority. 2. Twenty-eight states require physician supervision for advanced practice nurses, and Florida is one of the most restrictive. 3. House Speaker Jose Oliva, R-Miami Lakes, made advanced practice reform legislation one of his priorities, but lobbying efforts by the Florida Medical Association swayed the Senate and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis 4. Advanced registered nurse practitioner Stan Whittaker chided the decision and called the protocol "antiquated and outdated." Sonja Clapp, director of AdventHealth Surgery Center Shawnee Mission in Lenexa, Kan., discusses the biggest investments her center will make over the next few years. Ms. Clapp will share her expertise as a speaker at the Becker's ASC 26th Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, Oct. 24-26, 2019 in Chicago. To learn more and register, click here. For more information about exhibitor and sponsor opportunities, contact Maura Jodoin at mjodoin@beckershealthcare.com. Question: Where do you see the best opportunity for your center's strategic growth? What areas are you investing in today? Sonja Clapp: I am working on ENT at the moment, along with orthopedic. Some of the ENT have high disposable costs, which increases my cost per case; however, it has also increased my revenue per case. Q: How do you see your center evolving in the future? SC: We do a large number of ophthalmology procedures. I would like to see a separate area for these cases so we can become more efficient with room turnover. I believe we could double volumes. We should also be evolving to the total joints as these are moving toward outpatient throughout the country. Finally, we are currently all on paper for our patient records. We need to go to an EMR. This would greatly increase our efficiency in reports and tracking operating room block time as well as surgeons' efficiency and accuracy of scheduling. Q: What procedures or specialties do you see moving more outpatient over the next two years? SC: I am watching the vascular procedures. Some of the cardiac procedure codes are moving outpatient, including pacemakers, carotids and cardiac catheters. Total joints are already outpatient, but not in this area. I have been asking this question here for a couple of years and would like to see progress in this area. Q: What challenges do you anticipate for the outpatient landscape in the future? SC: Our area does not require a certificate of need. There are many surgery centers in our area. I see it becoming survival of the fittest. We will need to continue to look for opportunities to hold onto our market share and draw in new providers. We currently are a multispecialty facility and already are very successful. We monitor the age of our surgeons to ensure we have new, young surgeons coming in as the older ones begin to retire. It is definitely about having newer technology to draw in younger surgeons with new ideas. I have found that my cost per case may increase, but so does my revenue per case. HHS overstepped its statutory authority when it reduced Medicare payments to hospitals for medicines covered under the 340B drug discount program by nearly 30 percent, a federal court has ruled. The May 6 decision by Judge Rudolph Contreras, a District judge in Washington, D.C., concluded that the 340B drug reimbursement rate in the 2019 Medicare Outpatient Prospective Payment System violated federal law. The judge made the same ruling last year regarding identical cuts to the 2018 Medicare reimbursement rate. He ruled that the HHS secretary is authorized to make "adjustments" to the program, but "he cannot fundamentally rework the statutory scheme." President Donald Trump's administration has characterized the cuts as an effort to address high prescription medication costs. However, healthcare groups including the American Hospital Association, Association of American Medical Colleges and America's Essential Hospitals have challenged the change, saying the cuts financially harm 340B hospitals that serve vulnerable patients. In his most recent ruling on the issue, Mr. Contreras writes that "despite the fatal flaw in the rate adjustments, vacating HHS' 2018 and 2019 rules is not the best course of action." Instead, the court is remanding the rules to HHS and giving the agency "the first crack at crafting appropriate remedial issues," according to the ruling. The court is giving HHS until Aug. 5, or before, to provide a progress report on the matter. "We urge HHS to promptly comply with the judge's ruling and restore to 340B hospitals all funds that have been unlawfully withheld," the healthcare groups said in a May 7 news release. More articles on healthcare finance: Poor timing? U of Maryland Medical Center requests $75M hike in state funding Tennessee will seek approval to use Medicaid block grant Struggling rural Tennessee hospitals to get restructuring help from state U.S. senators on both sides of the aisle are calling on federal officials to defend the ACA in court, according to The Hill. On May 1, the Justice Department filed a formal request to a federal judge to strike down the entire health law. But Sens. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., are now urging President Donald Trump's administration to reverse course. The senators wrote a letter to Attorney General William Barr on May 7, expressing concerns over the Justice Department's decision. "Overturning the ACA will put millions of Americans at risk of losing their health insurance, including thousands of our constituents who gained health insurance through the Medicaid expansion, and thousands more who gained insurance through the ACA exchanges," they wrote. "With so much at stake, we urge you and the administration to reconsider this position and to defend the consumer protections for seniors, young adults, women, children and working families." The Justice Department's formal filing and the subsequent letter from the Democrat and Republican senators come more than a month after the Trump administration said it supports a Texas district court ruling that the entire ACA should be invalidated. The Texas federal judge, Reed O'Connor, concluded in a lawsuit brought by Republican-led states that the entire healthcare law is invalid because Congress eliminated the ACA's individual insurance mandate penalty. Twenty-six hospital CEOs have stepped down this year, nearly 35 percent less than the 35 recorded in the same period a year prior, according to consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas. "The churn we have been experiencing at the top since last August, with monthly totals well higher than average, seems to have cooled, at least for the moment," Andrew Challenger, vice president of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, said in a prepared statement. For the month of April, hospital CEO departures remained steady at five, compared to four recorded in the same month of 2018. Across all sectors, the average tenure for an outgoing CEO in April was just under nine years. Challenger, Gray & Christmas said this is the lowest average tenure for a single month since November 2016. More articles on leadership: CMS website that compares physicians lacks adequate data Florida Shriners hospital to lay off 60 employees 10 hospitals hiring CEOs Louisville-based KentuckyOne Health may be nearing a sale of Jewish Hospital after about two years. In an email obtained by the Courier Journal, KentuckyOne's interim CEO for its Louisville market suggested Jewish Hospital sale discussions with the University of Louisville are progressing. "In particular, the discussions with U of L Health have been very positive and have progressed to the point that we have now begun preliminary planning for the possible transition of KentuckyOne's providers, staff and services to U of L Health," Deborah Lee-Eddie's email said, according to the Courier Journal. Ms. Lee-Eddie also noted that leaders from KentuckyOne and its parent company, Chicago-based CommonSpirit Health, created a transition task force for the transaction. Jewish Hospital has been on the market since 2017. Questions about the hospital's financial viability have clouded the sale process. More articles on healthcare industry transactions: Illinois hospitals end merger talks Bon Secours to merge with Ireland's largest private health system Lifespan launches website criticizing Partners takeover of Care New England Eight people were taken to Colorado hospitals after a school shooting in which nine people were shot, one fatally, according to The New York Times. The shooting happened May 7 at STEM School Highlands Ranch (Colo.), a charter school near Denver with students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Two students were taken into custody, law enforcement told media outlets. "We know two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations," Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said at a news conference. Law enforcement confirmed the death of an 18-year-old male shooting victim. The sheriff's office has identified one of the suspects as 18-year-old Devon Erickson, and the other as a juvenile, according to the Times. Mr. Spurlock said the suspects were armed and unhurt. Littleton (Colo.) Adventist Hospital told the Times five people were transported there, two of whom were in serious condition May 7. The three other people have been discharged. Sky Ridge Medical Center in Lone Tree, Colo., told the Times two children were transported there and were in stable condition May 7. Aurora-based Children's Hospital Colorado said that the victim who was taken to its campus in Highlands Ranch had been treated and released. "Understandably, this has been a difficult day for our community," the hospital said in its news release. Read the full Times report here. Cigna's U.S. privacy officer and lead cybersecurity counsel left the company for a new position, according to Bloomberg Law. Four things to know: 1. Matthew Fitzsimmons joined Cigna in 2017 as privacy officer. At Cigna, he led state and federal privacy law implementation, the insurer's incident response team and privacy training. 2. He also managed privacy issues related to Cigna's integration with Express Scripts. 3. Mr. Fitzsimmons left Cigna to become a partner in the state attorneys general and data privacy practice groups at Shipman & Goodwin. 4. Prior to joining Cigna, Mr. Fitzsimmons was an assistant attorney general in the Connecticut attorney general's office. More articles on payers: Judge steps down from UnitedHealth case over 'immoral' denial of cancer treatment House Democrats unveil Medicare expansion plan: 8 things to know Humana posts $566M profit in Q1 An Oscar Health lawsuit alleging Florida Blue's broker policy is anticompetitive shouldn't be dismissed based on the McCarran-Ferguson Act, according to the Department of Justice. In a statement of interest obtained by the Daily Business Review, the Justice Department said the McCarran-Ferguson Act, which exempts insurance business from most federal regulation, should not be used as a basis to dismiss the case. Oscar Health sued Florida Blue in November 2018 over its exclusive broker policy, which Oscar argues excludes insurance brokers who work with Florida Blue from selling policies of other insurers. Oscar claimed that Florida Blue's policy coupled with its market dominance allows the insurer to effectively operate as a monopoly. Tania was gang-raped before murder:Autopsy 5 accused on remand Staff Reporter : The autopsy of the body of nurse Shahinoor Akter alias Tania, has found evidence of gang-rape before murder. The post mortem conducted at Kishoreganj General Hospital on Tuesday found injury marks on her nose, neck, legs and hands, Dr Md Habibur Rahman, Civil Surgeon of Kishoreganj, told our district correspondent. The injury marks bore the signs of serious scuffle and there was a fracture in the back side of her head and her skull was also bore mark of injury broken, said the civil surgeon. "The profuse bleeding from her head might be a cause of her death," suggested the Civil Surgeon. The forensic doctors also found bleeding in the victim's private parts, said the Civil Surgeon quoting the doctors. Tania, who used to work at Ibne Sina Hospital's Kalyanpur branch in Dhaka, was killed by the rapists while returning home by a bus in Kishoreganj's Katiadi upazila on Monday night. In the meantime, five persons, including the bus driver Md Nuruzzaman and its helper Lalon Mia were held by police for their alleged involvement in the rape and murder of Tania. Police on Wednesday arrested three more persons for their alleged involvement in the incident, said Khalilur Rahman Patwari, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Bajitpur Police Station. Earlier, the law enforcers arrested bus driver Md Nuruzzaman, 39, and its helper Lalon Mia, 33, on Tuesday. All of the accused were produced before a Kishoreganj court with a 10-day remand prayer on Wednesday, but the court granted remand for eight days each, said Taufiq Ahmed, Court Inspector of Kishoreganj. The victim's father lodged a murder and rape case with the Bajitpur Police Station naming four including the driver and helper and some unknown persons on Tuesday night. Tania boarded a Swarnalata Paribahan bus from the capital's Mohakhali to go to her home in Lohajury in Katiadi around 3:00pm on Monday. On her way, she spoke with her father and brother Sujan Mia several times on the phone. The bus reached Katiadi around 8:00pm where 16 of the 19 passengers got down. Two others got down at Ujanchar, said Shafiqul Islam, officer-in-charge (investigation) of Katiadi Police Station, quoting family members. From that point on, she was the only passenger as the bus headed towards Pirijpur, from where her home is some 10 minutes' rickshaw ride, police and family members said. Meanwhile, Tania was laid to rest beside her mother in the family grave yard on Tuesday night, said her father Giasuddin. New York City cited 84 people for failing to comply with a mandatory measles vaccination measure, the health department said May 7, according to CNBC. The city declared a public health emergency April 9 amid an ongoing measles outbreak and ordered mandatory vaccinations for residents in four zip codes where the majority of measles cases have occurred. Individuals who do not receive the measles vaccine or vaccinate their children could face a $1,000 fine. New York City has not issued any fines yet. However, the city requested 84 people appear in court for failing to get vaccinated. These individuals face up to $2,000 in fines if they do not attend. Health officials have confirmed 466 measles cases in New York City since the outbreak started in October 2018. Rutland Regional Medical Center in Rutland City, Vt., is requesting an emergency certificate of need from the state to address ligature risks through a $3.5 million renovation, reports VTDigger. During an accreditation assessment in August 2018, CMS inspectors identified "urgent risks" associated with ligature points, or any structure to which someone could attach a cord or rope for the purpose of hanging or strangulation. CMS is also finalizing a new guidance on ligature risks, which will bring more serious citations for hospitals. As such, Rutland Regional Medical Center is seeking expedited approval from the state's Green Mountain Care Board to update its medical beds, furniture, shelving, fire alarm system and doors to mitigate risks of self-harm or suicide. Eleven hospitals and health systems were honored for supply chain excellence by the Global Healthcare Exchange at its 19th annual GHXcellence Award ceremony in San Antonio April 30. The awards, presented to both provider and supplier organizations, recognize healthcare leaders who use technology, modern processes and best practices to improve supply chain operations. GHX selected the recipients based on a combination of performance metrics and implementation successes. The 11 hospitals and health systems honorees: 1. U.S. Healthcare Provider of the Year (Large): Memorial Hermann Healthcare System (Houston) 2. U.S. Healthcare Provider of the Year (Small to Medium): Riverside Health System (Newport News, Va.) 3. Excellence in Contract Management: University Hospitals Health System (Cleveland) 4. Excellence in ePayables: HCA Healthcare (Nashville, Tenn.) 5. Excellence in eProcurement: San Antonio Regional Hospital 6. Excellence in Product Data Management: Scripps Health (San Diego) 7. Excellence in UDI & Standards: Alberta Health Services (Canada) 8. Excellence in Vendor Credentialing & Compliance: WellStar Health System (Marietta, Ga.) 9. Most Improved Provider: The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Columbus, Ohio) 10. Rookie of the Year: Lafayette (La.) General Health System 11. Trading Partner Pair of the Year: Aspirus Health (Wausa, Wis.) and Medline Industries (Northfield, Ill.) A health system in Western New York state is trying to fill hundreds of immediate nursing openings, according to ABC-affiliate TV station WKBW. As of May 7, Buffalo, N.Y.-based Catholic Health had more than 200 nursing jobs posted on its website. The job openings are primarily for patient care support workers, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. Catholic Health isn't the only Western New York entity looking to fill positions, including UBMD, a Buffalo-based physicians group. A representative from the group told WKBW that there are two internal medicine openings and one family medicine opening. More articles on workforce: 69% of healthcare leaders hire for workplace culture fit, poll finds Hospitals add 8,300 jobs in April Arizona hospital under construction seeks nurses, other healthcare workers Bombardier's Northern Ireland operation must be sold to the "right buyer", a minister has said, amid pleas for the UK Government to guarantee the site's manufacturing future. Andrew Stephenson said the Government has asked the Canadian manufacturing giant to explain its decision, which the firm has said is a strategic move so it can focus on its transportation division. The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy added that he recognised this was "unwelcome news" for the Northern Irish workforce and it was "deeply regrettable" they faced further uncertainty about their future. Mr Stephenson added: "We have been assured by Bombardier that they are committed to finding the right buyer and will not rush to sell at any price." He later told MPs: "It's important we find the right buyer for this company. This company is a company with a good order book, it is a profitable company, and like other companies in the aerospace sector it has huge growth potential in the coming years." Shadow Northern Ireland secretary Tony Lloyd said the Moroccan government confirmed Bombardier's Casablanca operations will continue after the firm sells its plant there. He added: "We do now look to the minister to give the same kind of assurance to the people of Northern Ireland, to the people of the United Kingdom and beyond that Bombardier will make sure that the present workforce, the present skills base and the present production will continue unscathed." Mr Stephenson said the Government's priority was to protect the highly skilled jobs and help any of the workforce affected by the decision, adding he will be visiting Bombardier tomorrow. Huddersfield Labour MP Barry Sherman said the news "is a disaster for British industry and British aerospace", adding this was a "sign of what is going to happen to hi-tech industries" with more set to move out of Britain, "taking their investment" with them. He said this "isn't the canary singing, it has fallen off its perch". DUP MP Sammy Wilson noted that Bombardier's lease was due to be renewed this year, adding: "When it was privatised, a peppercorn rent was made available for the site - it is a very land-intensive industry - which is a fraction of a per cent of what the commercial rent would be. That could be a deal breaker when it comes to the sale of the site. "What discussions has the minister had, or will he have, with the Belfast Harbour Commissioners about setting a level of rent which ensures that operations can continue on the site?" Mr Stephenson replied: "Three weeks into the job, I have not had any conversations with them yet, but I look forward to doing so because, as he says, that could be very worthwhile as we look to secure the future of this company and all those whose livelihoods depend on it." Work has started on a 4m upgrade of Warrenpoint Port including the revamp of a historic house. The redevelopment of the Co Down harbour's Town Dock House will mark the start of the project. The building, which faces the town square, will be returned to its former use as the main harbour office, re-establishing a direct link between the port and the town centre. Clare Guinness, chief executive of Warrenpoint Port, said the work will rekindle the harbour's long-established historic links with the town and surrounding area. "The redevelopment of Town Dock House, an iconic building at the heart of our town centre, will build on those links and provide a major regeneration boost that we can all enjoy," she said. "The relocation of the administrative offices is just the first phase of our plans for the Town Dock, however. We also look forward to progressing plans to open up the dock to the public by creating new openings in the wall and railings to allow access from the Town Square to the water's edge at the marina." The Town Dock House works will include a complete refurbishment of the existing building and an extension, which will provide additional office space and boardroom facilities. The building work will be carried out by Newry-based Killowen Contracts and is expected to take six months. Eamon Larkin, director of Newry-based architects Milligan Reside Larkin, which designed the scheme, said: "Our team worked with Warrenpoint Port to sensitively design an extension to the former office building without impinging on the status of the existing building. "It is an exciting project to be involved in as it will add to the vitality of Warrenpoint town centre and complement other recent developments in the area." The project is part of a 4m capital investment that also includes the reconfiguration of internal port infrastructure, a new road layout, and additional plant and equipment. Ms Guinness, who is set to depart as chief executive in September, said: "Demand for our services is growing year-on-year. "By continuing to invest in our facilities, we can ensure the port is best placed to capitalise on that growing demand for the benefit of port users, our customers, our community and the wider economy." Joules has appointed Asdas Nick Jones as its new chief executive (PA) Joules has poached a top director from supermarket Asda to fill the shoes of the clothing brands departing chief executive. Nick Jones will succeed current boss Colin Porter, whose retirement was announced this year. He has been with Asda since 2011, when he was appointed to run the George clothing brand. More recently his remit has expanded to include homeware and food in his role as senior vice president for commercial. Prior to joining the supermarket, he spent 15 years with Marks & Spencer, latterly as director of home, beauty and gifts. Ian Filby, non-executive chairman of Joules, said: On behalf of the board and everyone at Joules, I am thrilled to welcome Nick as our next CEO. Nicks extensive retail, brand and strategy credentials, as well as a clear alignment with the Joules values, made him the outstanding candidate for the role. The appointment comes after a run of positive trading updates for the British clothing and lifestyle brand, which most recently reported a 17.6% increase in revenue for the 26 weeks to November 25. Mr Jones said there were further opportunities to expand the brands presence both abroad and digitally. Whilst the business and brand has achieved fantastic growth over recent years, I share the Boards view that there are tremendous growth opportunities ahead, driven, in particular, by further international expansion and online growth, he said. I have been impressed by the talent, energy and dedication of the people at Joules that Ive met so far, and Im looking forward to working with the wider team to deliver the groups growth strategy building on its strong foundations to further develop Joules as an international lifestyle brand. Mr Porter, who has been with Joules for eight years and served as CEO for five, announced last month that he would retire by the end of the current financial year. He will remain on board for a short handover period to Mr Jones later this year before stepping down. Market Harborough-based Joules, which was founded by Tom Joule in 1989, has 123 stores across the UK and Ireland, as well as an online arm and wholesale business that supplies over 2,000 stockists worldwide. The brand is available across the United States, Germany, France and other European markets, with global sales now accounting for around half of total wholesale revenue. It is known for its brightly-coloured apparel for both adults and children, especially its patterned wellington boots. Suzuki's iconic Jimny is back - and it's more grown-up than ever. Jack Evans takes it for a spin What is it? The cult classic returns - it's the all-new Suzuki Jimny. The previous (and third) generation was built for 10 years, and gained a momentous reputation for being brilliant off-road, incredibly reliable and cheap to buy as well. Now, there's a new one. It may follow a similar platform - its chassis is still a ladder frame design, for instance - but a variety of tweaks and touches have been implemented to make this Jimny just a little more grown-up, but no less bullet-proof. What's new? The fundamentals remain delightfully simple. There's still, as mentioned, a ladder chassis underneath the whole operation, which gives the Jimny excellent capability off-road and excellent robustness. And while other small off-roaders choose electronics to help when the terrain gets sticky, the Jimny still offers a proper four-wheel-drive system, with transfer gear and three-link rigid axle suspension. There's a new powertrain - more on this shortly - and while the new Jimny is actually shorter than the car it replaces, it's able to offer up better interior space and passenger legroom thanks to an increase in the front and rear seat hip points. All of these features mean that while the new Jimny is no less capable off-road, it's a little easier to live with. What's under the bonnet? Underneath the Jimny's short, snub nose beats a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 101bhp. In regular modes, it runs in rear-wheel-drive, sending power to the wheels through a five-speed manual (an automatic is available too), with a 0-62mph time in our estimation of just over the 10 second mark. The whole drivetrain can be switched into four-wheel-drive with a separate shift lever underneath the conventional gear stick. This allows you to pick between two-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive high gear, and four-wheel-drive low gear, for when the going gets really tough. In terms of economy, Suzuki claims 35.8mpg on the combined cycle (tested under new WLTP regulations) and emissions of 178g/km CO2. Top speed for the manual gearbox-driven car is a dizzying 90mph, but in truth this is a car which isn't about all-out performance. What's it like to drive? Quite a lot of the issues we had with the old Jimny have been suitably rectified. When on the motorway, the Jimny now feels far quieter and relaxing than its predecessor, for instance. There's still quite a large amount of wind noise generated by the close to vertical windscreen, but the engine noise is isolated well and it sits at just under 3,000rpm when travelling at 75mph (while travelling on a de-restricted German autobahn, we'll add). Would a sixth cog in the gearbox help the whole affair feel a little more settled-down? Certainly. But as it is, it feels more than happy travelling at higher speeds. Expand Close x / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp x Then there's the way it goes off-road. Thanks to its low weight and impressive approach and departure angles, the Jimny still manages to tackle terrain which would leave other so-called off-roaders floundering in the mud. It's very impressive indeed. How does it look? Part Mercedes G-Wagen, part Japanese Kei-car, the Jimny manages to look both imposing and cutesy all at the same time. The square proportions make it stand out against ordinary traffic, while the chunky wheelarches and bumpers give it an appearance of a car that really is ready for any adventure. Our test car, finished in 'Kinetic Yellow' (designed to be bright enough to stand out in poor weather), certainly turned heads as we ambled through small German villages. It's a fitting evolution on the Jimny appearance, and though some throwback design touches remain - the round headlamps with independent indicators being just two - it feels thoroughly fresh and modern, and all the better for it. What's it like inside? The Jimny has been designed to be robust and hard-wearing, and as such we can forgive it for the amount of harder plastics used throughout the cabin. Everything feels rock-solid, however; the grab handle in front of the forward passenger, for instance, has been rubberised and feels as though it's been built for chilly days out in the fields. It's a strange extra, therefore, that given that Suzuki impressed upon us that the cabin controls had been designed 'to be simple to use with gloves' that a touchscreen audio volume controller had been fitted - something we'd be certain would have been accessed via a rotary dial. The standard boot space remains pretty woeful, just as it did in the previous car. With all seats in place there's little more than a space for the boot door to fit, though with the rear seats laid flat there's 377 litres to play with - 53 litres more than its predecessor. What's the spec like? Two model grades available from launch; SZ4 priced at 15,499, SZ5 priced at 17,999 with manual transmission and 18,999 with automatic transmission. Lower-grade SZ4 cars still benefit from air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and DAB digital radio. Of course, the full suite of off-road kit is included as standard too, with features such as hill descent control and dual sensor brake support fitted to SZ4 models. Go up a grade to SZ5, and you'll find features such as 15-inch alloy wheels, climate control and a full satellite navigation system bundled in. Verdict Right off the bat, the Jimny has managed to encapsulate all that was loved about the previous car while adding better refinement and build quality. It still, as you'd hope, is an utter triumph off-road, shaking off even the most difficult of surfaces and inclines. A deal preserving the Common Travel Area between the UK and Ireland after Brexit has been signed (Niall Carson/PA) A deal preserving the Common Travel Area (CTA) between the UK and Ireland after Brexit has been signed. The memorandum of understanding between the two governments allows citizens of both countries to cross the Irish border and move freely between Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. It allows cross-border access to education and healthcare. The non-legally binding understanding was signed by senior UK and Irish ministers at a Cabinet Office meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference in London on Wednesday. The conference was part of a renewed bid to restore devolved powersharing at Stormont, initiated after the murder of journalist Lyra McKee in Londonderry last month. Political working groups set up to address contested issues at the heart of the Stormont impasse, such as the Irish language, began operating on Wednesday. The CTA predates the UK and Irelands membership of the EU. There was no legally binding international agreement which established its terms and it was largely based on trust. The memo is an attempt to reinforce that understanding. It was signed by the UKs de facto deputy prime minister David Lidington and Irish deputy premier Simon Coveney, with Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley and Irish justice minister Charlie Flanagan in attendance. Expand Close The understanding is expected to be signed by UK Cabinet Minister David Liddington and Irish Tanaiste Simon Coveney, with Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley in attendance (PA). PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The understanding is expected to be signed by UK Cabinet Minister David Liddington and Irish Tanaiste Simon Coveney, with Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley in attendance (PA). Mr Lidington said: This memorandum of understanding highlights the value both of our governments place on the CTA a long-standing, cherished set of arrangements that have real significance in peoples day-to-day lives. Our message to Irish citizens in the UK is that your rights will not change. You will still be able to move freely between Ireland, the UK and the islands. You will still be able to work, study, draw your pension and access social security and public services in the UK. Above all, you will be welcome. And we welcome the similar commitment the government of Ireland makes to British citizens in Ireland. Todays announcement reflects close work with Ireland over the last two years to ensure that the CTA and associated rights are maintained, no matter the terms of the UKs withdrawal from the EU. This is the culmination of that good progress. Mr Coveney said: Today marks an important moment for the long-standing Common Travel Area arrangement between our two countries. The CTA has provided rights and privileges to Irish and British citizens for nearly a century. However, it has not before been formalised in this way. Many of us have personal experience of the CTA in our daily lives. This MOU demonstrates and confirms the commitment of both governments to maintaining the CTA in all circumstances. It provides clarity and assurance for citizens of both countries that the way in which British and Irish citizens can live and work freely across these islands will not change. The Tanaiste added: The CTA is a practical demonstration of the enduring strength of the British-Irish relationship and of our people to people ties. I want to assure British citizens living in Ireland that they are welcome and truly valued here, as is their contribution to Ireland and Irish life. British citizens will continue to be able to travel freely, live, study and work in Ireland into the future. I welcome the similar commitment and welcome of the UK Government for Irish citizens in Britain. The intergovernmental conference is provided for by the 1998 Good Friday Agreement and facilitates bilateral co-operation between Britain and Ireland. It was resurrected after seldom being used because of the absence of a breakthrough at Stormont. The fresh powersharing talks process began in Belfast on Tuesday. Expand Close Fresh talks began in Belfast on Tuesday (Niall Carson/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fresh talks began in Belfast on Tuesday (Niall Carson/PA) Leaders of the five main parties acknowledged mounting public impatience and anger at a stalemate that has left the region without a functioning devolved government for more than two years. They held a short round-table meeting at Stormont House on Tuesday afternoon for the first exchanges of a new process initiated by the UK and Irish governments. The process will involve agenda-setting and stock-taking meetings between the five leaders and two governments at least once a week, with five working groups to focus on the detail of key disputes at the heart of the deadlock. The last DUP/Sinn Fein-led powersharing coalition imploded in January 2017 when the late Martin McGuinness quit as Sinn Fein deputy first minister amid a row about a botched green energy scheme. The fallout over the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) was soon overtaken by disputes over the Irish language, the regions ban on same-sex marriage and the toxic legacy of the Troubles. Six previous initiatives to restore devolution failed to find consensus. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood in front of his election bus in Belfast as he launches his bid to take one of the three Northern Irish seats in the European Parliament elections of 23rd of May. Pic: Liam McBurney/PA Wire An anti-Brexit election battle bus highlighting the millions of euros transferred from Europe to Northern Ireland to support peace has been launched. Nationalist SDLP leader Colum Eastwood is running in this months European Parliament poll. He chose the Irish border near Londonderry to unveil a newly-liveried bus debunking the claims of Brexiteers before the referendum. Expand Close SDLP leader Colum Eastwood in front of his election bus in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp SDLP leader Colum Eastwood in front of his election bus in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) Mr Eastwood said: People here believe in open borders, they believe in an open economy, they believe in open societies and they are totally against the message the DUP are sending. They are trying to misrepresent us in a kind of a pro-Brexit position. Well we dont accept that and I think this is the opportunity for people in Northern Ireland to send the most positive, anti-Brexit, pro-European candidate to the European Parliament to stop people misrepresenting what we stand for because we are a pro-European people and we intend to stay that way. We found Boris big red bus and weve made a few changes. Yeoooooooo! https://t.co/luN4hEmqZM pic.twitter.com/f8p2c8x0v1 Martin McAuley (@MartinMcAuley) May 8, 2019 The message painted on the bus characterised the May 23 election as a Peoples Vote in an echo of the second referendum demand of some Remainers. It said the EU sent 500 million euros a year to Northern Ireland in peace process funding and other initiatives. The slogan on the vehicle urged voters to take back control of their futures in another re-appropriation of Brexiteer arguments. Mr Eastwood said he intended to send a message that people in Northern Ireland would not be dragged out of the EU against their will. The Foyle Assembly member said it was a positive message about the blocs benefits for peace and the economy. Weve found the big Red Bus! Painted it proudly in our Pro EU colours, corrected the lies and printed the truth! Europe sends us 500M a year! Send Eastwood to Europe! #Jointhefightback pic.twitter.com/bJuuyO5KY5 Daniel McCrossan MLA (@McCrossanMLA) May 8, 2019 Sinn Fein and the DUP are projected to take two of the three seats in Northern Ireland. Mr Eastwood faces a three-way battle for the third place with the Ulster Unionists Danny Kennedy and the leader of the resurgent Alliance Party, Naomi Long. Her centralist partys council representation grew dramatically in this months vote. Mr Eastwood is also campaigning for unionist and nationalist votes. He urged unionists to give him their number one vote to signal that they were not prepared to be dragged out of Europe against their wishes. The DUP dont represent every unionist in Northern Ireland. The DUP is pro-Brexit and frustrated Prime Minister Theresa Mays attempts to secure a withdrawal deal. It fears the border backstop insurance policy keeping Northern Ireland trade regulations aligned with the Republic of Ireland could threaten the integrity of the UK. Mr Eastwood said Northern Ireland should send two Remain voices to the European Parliament. This is our peoples vote. This is our chance to send a clear, unambiguous, pro-European, anti-Brexit message to London and Europe. That is what we can do on the 23rd of May. I think we will do it and I look forward to the campaign. Twenty-one firefighters tackled a blaze at a large shed in Co Antrim on Wednesday evening. The fire broke out just after 5pm in a large shed off the Ballyboley junction of the Larne A8 road. Police were forced to close the dual carriageway in both directions for a period during the evening commute home. Firefighters removed a number of gas cylinders and crews wearing breathing apparatus were quickly able to bring the fire under control using firefighting water jets. The incident was brought under control with crews remaining on scene to dampen down the fire and to begin their investigation into the cause. Amnesty International has said that it's not aware of any private assurances on the legalisation of same-sex marriage given to Sinn Fein by the Government. The human rights organisation was speaking after Sinn Fein MLA Conor Murphy claimed the Government promised his party last year that if a restored Assembly failed to approve legislation on the issue, it would be passed by Westminster. The Government yesterday insisted that same-sex marriage remains a devolved matter for Stormont. Mr Murphy told BBC's Stephen Nolan Show that Sinn Fein negotiators received the assurance before the last talks process collapsed in February 2018. "The issue of equal marriage was going to be presented in the Assembly. "If it failed, we had an assurance it would be passed by Westminster," he said. The MLA wouldn't be drawn on who exactly had made the pledge to his party. Asked whether Sinn Fein was comfortable cutting the DUP out of the process on equal marriage, Mr Murphy said: "That was the commitment that was given. "There are well above sufficient numbers in the House of Commons to pass equal marriage for the North to ensure the rights that people enjoy in Britain, and the rights that people enjoy in the South, are delivered here." Amnesty International's Patrick Corrigan said: "We are not aware of any private assurance which the UK Government may have given to Sinn Fein last year. "What we do know is that, as a draft DUP-Sinn Fein deal was shaping up last February, Karen Bradley gave an on-the-record response to a written question from Conor McGinn MP, which committed the Government only to allowing a free vote if backbenchers brought same-sex marriage legislation to Parliament. "Just a week later, the political talks collapsed without agreement." Mr Corrigan added: "In the intervening 15 months, the Government has not only not lifted a finger to bring marriage equality to Northern Ireland, but they have actively frustrated efforts to progress private members' bills which were subsequently introduced in both Houses of Parliament. "The Love Equality campaign has a very simple message for politicians meeting in the coming weeks - if Stormont won't or can't deliver equality, then Westminster must. "It is time to end second-class citizenship for the LGBT community in Northern Ireland." A Northern Ireland Office spokesperson said: "It has been the UK Government's consistent position that the best way forward is for locally accountable politicians in Northern Ireland to make decisions that affect the lives of the people they serve." A review looking at the care of deceased patients of neurologist Dr Michael Watt, announced more than a year ago, has not started yet. The Department of Health's permanent secretary Richard Pengelly announced the review by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) at the beginning of May last year. It is part of a wide-ranging investigation into the care delivered by Dr Watt, as well as the oversight and management of neurology services in Northern Ireland. However, work is still underway to establish the terms of reference and details of the review team, prompting anger from the son of a former patient of Dr Watt. Colin Armstrong, whose mother Ruth died in 2002 at the age of 78 after she was diagnosed with a brain tumour, said he has been left frustrated and disappointed by the lack of information provided by health officials about the review. "I met with the chief executive of the RQIA on June 11 last year and was told they were going to be starting work in September," he said. "They told me they wanted to delay the review until then because they wanted the recall of living patients to be dealt with first, which I thought was quite reasonable. However, there have been no definitive answers since then. "I emailed the RQIA over the summer months and on one occasion an email I sent went unanswered for 47 days. When a response came through it didn't actually address the questions I had asked. The most I can get out of them now about when the review is going to get properly under way is that it will start in due course, which is useless. "It's not even as though they are giving a proper timeframe by saying it will start by August or September, it's unbelievably frustrating." When he announced the RQIA review on May 2 last year, Mr Pengelly said: "There are clearly important wider questions which will need to be addressed both to fully understand and assess the impact of what has happened and also to ensure that we can have confidence in the safety of neurology services now and in the future." It is understood the work being undertaken by the RQIA involves identifying which patients should be included in the review. Next of kin also need to be informed and kept up-to-date, while the review team must also gain permission to access medical records. A spokeswoman from the Department of Health said it could not comment on the matter. However, an RQIA spokesman said: "Following the recall of neurology patients at the Belfast Trust in May 2018, the Department of Health commissioned RQIA to undertake two separate investigations. RQIA has recently concluded the first phase of this project, an extensive review of governance of outpatient services in the Belfast Trust, with a particular focus on neurology services. "In parallel with this, RQIA has been preparing arrangements to commence its expert review of the records of all patients or former patients of Dr Michael Watt who have died over the past 10 years. "This is a highly complex matter, and RQIA is sensitive to the concerns of those who have lost a loved one during this time period. "At present we are agreeing the scope, methodology for this review, and membership of a project board to oversee this work. "Once agreed, RQIA will publish its terms of reference for the review and details of the review team. "Throughout this process RQIA has kept the Department of Health fully informed of progress." Dr Watt, who is at the centre of the biggest ever recall of patients in Northern Ireland, is still suspended from working as a doctor in the UK while the General Medical Council continues its investigation. The Belfast Trust recalled 2,500 of his patients after an independent review of patient notes, following on from an independent expert review by the Royal College of Physicians. A further 1,044 patients were recalled in October last year. A campaign bus will be revealed by SDLP leader and European Parliament candidate Colum Eastwood (Nick Ansell/PA) An anti-Brexit battle bus is to be unveiled by a candidate in Northern Ireland for the European Parliament. Nationalist SDLP leader Colum Eastwood launches his campaign on the Irish border on Wednesday with a deliberate adoption of the tactics of his opponents. Mr Eastwood is staunchly opposed to EU withdrawal and believes it would be catastrophic for Northern Ireland. He is from the city of Londonderry, which is a short distance from the frontier and has a hinterland in Donegal in the Republic. Time for politicians to get back to work. People sent a clear message they want a government to deal with health waiting lists, address the crisis in education and to protect our economy from Brexit. Weve put our proposal on the table to break the deadlock and get back to work pic.twitter.com/xbT0guWUaU Colum Eastwood (@columeastwood) May 7, 2019 Mr Eastwood will say the campaign is our peoples vote and the election is our time to take back control. The Foyle Stormont Assembly member in the suspended devolved parliament is expected to accuse Brexiteers of conducting a misleading campaign and will call for honest politics focused on securing a future in Europe. Mr Eastwood said: The voices of people here have been silenced and our interests sidelined. This election is a chance for our voice to be finally heard, it is our peoples voteColum Eastwood That cannot be allowed to continue. This election is a chance for our voice to be finally heard, it is our peoples vote. He faces a tough race for Northern Irelands third European Parliament seat. Pollsters expect that incumbents Martina Anderson from Sinn Fein and Diane Dodds from the DUP will successfully defend their seats. The final place is projected to involve a battle between Mr Eastwood, the leader of the resurgent centralist Alliance Party Naomi Long, and the Ulster Unionists Danny Kennedy. Mr Eastwood said: Based on the figures, the SDLP is best placed to take the seat off the Brexiteers and send a second pro-European voice to Europe to protect our interests. I am asking people to put traditional party politics aside and to come out and vote against Brexit, against borders and instead vote for our place in Europe. The majority in Northern Ireland voted to remain in the EU. The pro-Brexit DUP argues that to keep the country aligned to the Republic of Irelands trade rules after the divorce using the border backstop would threaten the integrity of the UK. The Good Friday Agreement gives citizens born in Northern Ireland the right to identify as British or Irish citizens, or both (Liam McBurney/PA) Brexit has exacerbated a human rights crisis that exists in Northern Ireland, making both communities second class citizens, a committee has heard. Professor Colin Harvey, from Queens University, Belfast, told an Irish parliament committee that there has been systematic disrespect for the Good Friday Agreement throughout the Brexit process. The Good Friday Agreement gives citizens born in Northern Ireland the right to identify as British or Irish citizens, or both. As Brexit looms there have been concerns that citizens in Northern Ireland will hold different entitlements, such as access to visas, consular assistance or the EU civil service, which is fundamentally opposed in the Good Friday Agreement. Theres a growing sense in Northern Ireland of Irish citizens being abandoned and disrespected, as basic elements of the Good Friday Agreement have not been implemented in full, Mr Harvey said. Aspects of the Joint Report 2017, such as the paragraph 52 obligation, has not been implemented practically, and what that underlines is there has been a Good Friday Agreement formalisation failure. In the Joint Report written by the EU and UK in December 2017, paragraph 52 says that the people of Northern Ireland who are Irish citizens will continue to enjoy rights as EU citizens, including where they reside in Northern Ireland. Mr Harvey recommended that the public needed those rights effectively codified, so that people do not lose rights they had previously enjoyed, and as parity of esteem and equal treatment are already underpinned in the Good Friday Agreement. Brexit has exacerbated the human rights and equality crisis that exists in the North, he said. There is a sense that Northern Ireland voted to remain, that everything else is really second best, and in context of Brexit, those concerns remain about paragraph 52. The real anxiety Irish citizens have in the North, is that those paragraph 52 commitments wont be effectively realised in practice. The committee heard the UK Home Office accepted Irish-identifying citizens born in Northern Ireland until 2012. However, under Theresa May as home secretary, in an effort to stem migration, the Home Office ceased to treat NI-born applicants as Irish citizens, but as dual British citizens who were not entitled to EU rights in the UK. This is the basis of the ongoing case of Emma and Jake DeSouza. Emma DeSouza, 31, from Londonderry, married US citizen Jake DeSouza in 2015. The Home Office rejected Jake DeSouzas application for an EEA residence card in Northern Ireland, as although Emma was born in Northern Ireland, and has a right under the Good Friday Agreement to identify as Irish, the UK has classified her as British. Mr Harvey added that there was a need to significantly strengthen human rights provisions in Northern Ireland. From my own perspective, its long overdue for this implementation gap to be addressed for the way forward in relation to Northern Ireland, he said. Both governments and all parties at this time need to openly and honestly confront and address the human rights and equality crisis that is objectively there and must be faced; if were going to renew the Good Friday Agreement and its values, we have to face into and address the heart of the problem in the North at the moment. Three recommendations were made by the witnesses, which include parts of the Good Friday Agreement that have not been implemented. A bill of rights for Northern Ireland and all its citizens, a charter of all-Ireland rights, and a civic forum. Daniel Holder, deputy director of committee on the Administration of Justice noted that those who identify as British in Northern Ireland will also lose rights, as those with Irish passports will be able to travel unencumbered in Europe, whereas those who hold a British passport will not. In a sense Brexit has manged to turn everyone into second class citizens in different ways, Mr Holder said. Brexit leaves different groups of our citizens really divided by rules as never before, theres going to be a lot of differentiation on entitlements. Brexit is creating real trouble for the equality of treatment principles of the Good Friday Agreement. Its difficult to see how any Brexit, without any form of special status for the North, that allowed British citizens to retain EU citizenship, comply with those provisions of the Agreement. This is not where we wanted to be. Were at the stage now where the Home Office is actively seeking the lowest common denominator and to strip every possible EU right and benefit from Irish citizens in Northern Ireland and in a manner that fundamentally contradicts the Good Friday Agreement. Actor Charlie Lawson with Yvonne Black, widow of officer David Black with Mary Moreland, chairman of The War Widows Association, launching an event to mark 50th anniversary of Operation Banner Coronation Street star Charlie Lawson has accused the Government of trying to sweep the families of terror victims 'under the carpet'. The Enniskillen-born actor claimed they would rather relatives "disappeared or just shut up". He also called for more action to help the 'neglected' ex-policemen, soldiers and prison officers who served here during the Troubles. Lawson was speaking yesterday at the launch of a Northern Ireland Veterans Association (NIVA) commemoration, which will be held in Lisburn on August 17 to mark the 50th anniversary of the arrival of troops here at the start of Operation Banner. Lawson, who is an ambassador for the NIVA parade and service, said he was infuriated that most people in England, where he now lives, have already forgotten the Troubles. "It's only when very unfortunate incidents like the murder of journalist Lyra McKee happen that people wake up and realise the Troubles maybe haven't gone away," he said. Asked about the new political talks at Stormont, Lawson said it was difficult to see if progress could be made. He added: "There are times when I would like to knock heads together and say 'for God's sake, sit down and get on with it'. "The problems are not insurmountable." Lawson, who plays Jim McDonald in Corrie, revealed how his father helped found the loyalist Ulster Vanguard movement. It opposed the imposition of direct rule of Northern Ireland from Westminster early in the Troubles and held a series of massive rallies. He said: "My father was involved in local politics. He was one of the instigators of the Vanguard movement down there with Bill Craig and Harry West and he was a target. "We were visited on numerous occasions by strange men in camouflage who would appear on the doorstep and have sandwiches - and they were there to protect us. "The Royal Ulster Constabulary were regular visitors. "The Ulster Defence Regiment were always round and about, making sure everybody was all right, and some strange guys from England would appear with no cap badges and mother would make them sandwiches." Lawson was joined at the Wallace Park launch by widows and children of victims. Yvonne Black, whose prison officer husband David was shot dead by the 'New IRA' as he drove along the M1 motorway to work at Maghaberry jail in November 2012, welcomed the commemoration. She said it was important to ensure that people 'who gave their lives for their country' were always remembered. She added: "To me it's also important to highlight the prison service who I think were the forgotten victims. And they were the people who came face to face with terrorists on a daily basis." Mrs Black revealed that security provided for her family at their home was removed just before the killing. "They reckoned there was no threat anymore," she said. "But that threat never goes away." Mrs Black said she was trying to get on with life as best as she could, adding: "You just adjust to a new normal but life will never be the same." Mary Moreland, whose husband John, a UDR reservist, was killed in an IRA ambush in Downpatrick in December 1988, was also in Lisburn in her role as national chairman of the War Widows Association. She said August 17 would be a significant day for ex-service personnel. "But from a bereaved's point of view there isn't one day that goes by that you don't remember," she added. "This will be a public day of remembrance however and that's important to keep what happened in the public consciousness because if you don't learn from history you will repeat it." Also present at yesterday's launch was former barrister Peter Sefton, who lost his retired RUC father James and his mother Ellen in an IRA bomb attack on their car in Belfast in June 1990. "I want to support the commemoration on behalf of my father and mother," he said. Mr Sefton said he had been campaigning without success to establish why there had never been a prosecution over the murders of his parents. He said he was convinced a high-level informer was involved. One of the organisers of the NIVA commemoration, Ian Simpson, the chairman of the NI Prison Service Benevolent Fund, said the event was designed to honour the sacrifice of hundreds of men and women from the security forces, the prison service and emergency services killed 'doing their duty' during the Troubles. He said: "Operation Banner veterans and their families have not been given the same public recognition for their service in the way that formal parades have been held for veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan." Mr Simpson added that while the August event would primarily be a day of commemoration, NIVA was acknowledging there were also 'strong feelings' among many veterans about historical investigations. These include the prosecution of Soldier F in relation to Bloody Sunday. Soldier F is facing two murder charges and four counts of attempted murder linked to the events in Londonderry on January 30, 1972. A company with designs on drilling for gas in Co Fermanagh has renewed a controversial bid to restart the process A company with designs on drilling for gas in Co Fermanagh has renewed a controversial bid to restart the process. The Department for the Economy yesterday launched a fresh consultation on Tamboran Resources (UK) Ltd's application for a licence to test a large area in the south west of the county for natural gas. The process to recover the gas, known as fracking, remains controversial. It involves drilling deep into rock and injecting water, sand and chemicals at high pressure to release the gas inside. The process has already been banned in the Republic, France and Germany. Those opposed to fracking say it can trigger earthquakes and threaten water supplies. Australian firm Tamboran Resources was originally awarded a licence by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) in 2011. But its efforts to drill a borehole at a quarry in Belcoo triggered protests and was eventually blocked by former Environment Minister Mark H Durkan. The licence was eventually terminated in 2014 by then DETI Minister Arlene Foster. The company's Northern Ireland operation was subject to a management buyout in 2016. It is now headed by Karl Prenderville, who claims that fracking for gas in Fermanagh could be worth more than 20bn. "If our estimations are confirmed, once demonstrating it can be done safely and receiving approval to proceed, this project has the potential to create thousands of jobs, locally, through a multi-billion pound investment over an anticipated 25-year period, providing long-term, secure and well-paid jobs," he said. A licence would involve a two stage process beginning with test drilling and progressing to a test well, where fracking would be deployed. DUP leader and Fermanagh MLA Arlene Foster said yesterday that planning policy agreed by the Executive in 2015 included a presumption against fracking unless there is sufficient and robust evidence on all environmental impacts. "Any evidence put forward in these areas must be considered on its merits by the experts within the planning system. It is right that such assessments are made by those qualified to do so," she said. "There have been concerns raised around potential impact on local drinking water supplies as well as the impact on the landscape of Fermanagh. Given the huge importance of tourism to the economy of County Fermanagh these are obviously very important considerations." Sinn Fein MLA Jemma Dolan said her party is completely opposed to fracking. Donal O'Cofaigh of the Cross-Party Labour Alternative, who won a council seat in Enniskillen last week, expressed concern that without an Executive in place, the decision to progress the application could be taken by civil servants. He said: "The issue is really whether unelected officials could now make a decision that potentially would cut across the overwhelming opposition that exists in Fermanagh." A mother whose son saved the lives of five people through organ donation after his death has told of her pride that his story is being used to inspire others. David Brookes died in a car crash, but he gave the gift of life to others. His heart, liver, kidneys and one of his lungs saved the lives of their recipients while his eyes helped restore the sight of two others. The lives of four children were either saved or enhanced after they were transplanted with sections of his small and large intestines. Now his story has been selected by the Western Health Trust to encourage other people to consider organ donation. His mum Kay Brookes, from Eglinton in Co Londonderry, told how she was left devastated when David (31) was killed in a crash in Londonderry in 2013. But she said the knowledge that David's organs have allowed other people to live has given her great comfort. She said: "It was very emotional for me to see David's photograph on the wall of the intensive care unit in Altnagelvin but I was proud to see it too because I know how many people are alive today because he was an organ donor." Ms Brookes explained how, after the organs were donated, she was given some information about the people who received them. They included a postman in his 20s, who was given one of David's kidneys. And the other one went to a woman who had been on dialysis for six years who has since gone on to have a child. She added: "I think that is so lovely because it is like David's DNA is still carrying on. "Since then I have also had a wonderful letter from the man who got David's lung who had been told he would not live long enough to see his grandchild. "He wrote to say that thanks to David he has had the privilege of walking his grandson in the park. "But he didn't only say thank you for himself, he said that thanks to David, his wife and his children had the bright future they wouldn't have had. "David's son Luke, who was only 11 when his dad died, recently told me how proud he is of him and how he too wants to be a donor as well." Ms Brookes recalled how Luke asked her about how many lives his dad had saved. She recalled: "When I told him he got tears in his eyes and so did I. "He said to me 'now I know what silver lining means because everyone who got a bit of my dad has had a silver lining', which I thought was a lovely way of putting it." She said she misses her son "every day". "Sometimes the grief just hits me and I think I can't cope but I have had to learn how to live a new life without David, but it is a comfort knowing that other people are alive because of him. "On the day the Western Trust unveiled David's story board, I was able to talk to a lady who received a kidney from someone like David and talking to her about the difference it has made to her life helped me so much. "I know it is a difficult conversation to have but it is important, not only that people consider signing up to become organ donors but that they let their families know this is what they want." Right now there are around 6,000 people across the UK who are waiting for a transplant - approximately 150 of these are from Northern Ireland. On average three people in the UK die every day because of a shortage of organ donors. If someone dies in circumstances where they can donate their organs, their family would be approached about organ donation. It is hoped the story boards installed by the Western Trust outside the intensive care unit at Altnagelvin Hospital will inspire other families who find themselves in the intensive care unit, potentially facing the loss of a loved one. Dr Declan Grace, who is organ donation lead at the Western Trust, said: "It can be very difficult for families when their next of kin is critically ill. "Although most patients recover, some patients do not despite the best efforts of our doctors and nurses. Some of these patients can potentially donate their organs after their death. "We understand that organ donation is often something families have not previously discussed and we hope that being able to see the stories of others who have been through a similar situation will help families to consider whether it's the right thing for them to do, if the situation arises." You can help save lives by signing up to the NHS Organ Donor Register at www.organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 23 23. The partner of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has compared those dissident republicans behind her killing to paedophiles in the way they groom youths and attract them into a world of violence. She also rounded on Northern Ireland's political leaders telling them to look beyond their red lines and restore the devolved institutions. "Same sex marriage and an Irish language act are important, she said. "They are important dont get me wrong but whats more important is having a working government who are doing whats right for the people of Northern Ireland." Sara Canning was speaking in an interview with Channel 4 News' chief correspondent Alex Thomson on Wednesday night - the day Lyra had planned to propose to her in New York's Central Park. She also revealed she told Prime Minister Theresa May she had been "derelict" in her duty to Northern Ireland at the Belfast funeral of Lyra and her government had to step into the current political void. She also told Karen Bradley she was "doing a pretty terrible job" as Northern Ireland Secretary of State. Read More Lyra McKee (29) was killed as she observed rioting in Derry's Creggan estate last month. The so-called new IRA claimed responsibility offering it's "full and sincere apologies" to family and friends of the reporter. Ms Canning described the apology as "mealy mouthed". She said they had taken away the life of someone who had made Derry their home, who loved it and was "chomping a the bit" to make a difference. Theyre literally a scourge on their communities. Expand Close Lyra and her partner Sara Canning / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lyra and her partner Sara Canning "You cant apologise for killing someone," she said. "You cant call it an accidental shooting. You fire a gun at a crowd, thats not an accidental shooting. Youre aiming to shoot someone. I mean, its ridiculous. It was so indiscriminate. There was no regard for human life. Why are we protecting that? And if it is your child, I would be ashamed to have a child that had done that. Id be ashamed. "Theyre not defending anyone. Theyre literally a scourge on their communities. Theyre a scourge. They are a scourge. "What I would say is, and this might be heavy-handed, and people might speak out against it or whatever. But I dont really care. "They are grooming young men and women. Theyre no better, they speak out about paedophile gangs, but theyre no better than paedophiles. "They literally take young people who are disenfranchised at the best of times, who are living in poverty, who dont see a future for themselves in Northern Ireland because there is literally very little here for them. And they tell them that the way forward is a gun in their hand. The way forward is never a gun in your hand. Ms Canning said she and Lyra had been observing the rioting, just behind police lines, for a total of eight minutes. She said Lyra had "gone into reporting mode". She said she had at first thought Lyra had tripped over her own feet when she fell to the ground. "I noticed that she had a head wound and I put my hand to it and I started screaming for help." The way forward is never a gun in your hand. During Lyra's funeral, Sara said she saw red at some of those in attendance at the service in St Anne's Cathedral. She said she urged Taoiseach Leo Varadkar "as a world leader" to help facilitate talks to restore power sharing in Northern Ireland. "Karen Bradley offered her condolences and I accepted them graciously. And I wasnt rude. But I did tell her that she was doing a pretty terrible job as the Secretary of State. Her lack of knowledge around Northern Ireland was appalling. She needed to go and educate herself. How on earth she had taken a job where she had no knowledge of the area. "She was very gracious I have to say. She nodded and she agreed with me that she had said things that were completely misguided and that shes gone and educated herself. "As a Derry woman to offer your condolences on Lyra when you have turned around and said that soldiers who indiscriminately opened fire in the Bogside on Bloody Sunday were doing their job in a dignified manner. I said they are no different to the thug that opened fire in Creggan on Holy Thursday and shot Lyra. Karen Bradley faced calls to quit after she told the Commons killings carried out by the police and military during the Troubles were not crimes, rather actions of people "fulfilling their duties in a dignified and appropriate way". She later apologised saying her remarks were wrong and "insensitive". No-ones going to tell me what I can and cant say at this pointIve literally just lost the love of my life. In the midst of her grief at murdered journalist Lyra McKee's funeral, her partner accused Leo Varadkar, Theresa May and Karen Bradley of failing Northern Ireland. pic.twitter.com/dIl6ASEU0Q Channel 4 News (@Channel4News) May 8, 2019 Sara Canning said the message she left with the Prime Minister was for her government to govern in Northern Ireland and for Theresa May to say issues such as same-sex marriage and abortion law reform were for Stormont to introduce was "out of order" given the collapse of the institutions. "It's been shown we cant work together so the British government has to be our government. And they have to be our voice and they have to do better. "Weve been left adrift. Theres people missing out on operations and theres schools missing out on funding. Theres head teachers having to go out and buy toilet roll for their primary schools, because they dont have the funds to do that. Lyra had been planning a romantic break in American and had worked out an "elaborate" proposal at a lake house in Central Park. She had planned it with a friend. Sara said Lyra was great at planning and she had gone into the minutest of detail putting her "heart and soul" into the planning. She added: "Its been almost three weeks. Ive not come to terms with it. I still expect to hear from her every morning. I expect to wake up beside her, and I dont." "We had planned the rest of our lives together and in one split second, some idiot with a gun took that away." The partner of Lyra McKee addresses those who are likely protecting the identity of her killer - on the day the couple had planned to get engaged. pic.twitter.com/DJETeQ0uXA Channel 4 News (@Channel4News) May 8, 2019 Police are investigating and have made a number of arrests in connection with the killing of Lyra McKee. They said the response from the community was positive and they have agreed to provide anonymity to those who come forward with information. A UK Government spokesman said: "The Government supports the extension of marriage equality right across the United Kingdom, including for the people of Northern Ireland. "However, we continue to believe that the best outcome is for a restored Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive to take forward this as a devolved issue as a matter of priority. "We are absolutely focused on the restoration of devolved government through the ongoing process of talks." The Northern Ireland Office has been approached for a response. Cross-party Brexit talks have again failed to reach agreement, Labour has confirmed. The news came after the Government's official acceptance that it cannot get its Brexit deal through Parliament in time to avoid European elections on May 23. Theresa May's effective deputy David Lidington confirmed the elections will go ahead, but said the Government was "redoubling our efforts" to get an EU Withdrawal Agreement ratified by the start of July so the new MEPs never have to take their seats. Shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey confirmed negotiations on a new Brexit deal that could win a parliamentary majority have still to bear fruit. "Nothing has been agreed yet," she said after a three-hour meeting. "Discussions today were very robust and we're having further meetings this week where we hope to make some progress. "The Government needs to move on its red lines and we expect to make compromises, but without a government that's willing to compromise, it's difficult to see how any agreement can be reached, and I think the Government is aware of that." She said: "We haven't had any movement or agreement on a customs union, certainly not today, but we will see what the rest of the week holds." Pressure on both sides to make progress was heightened by the parties' poor performance in last week's local elections, which both Conservative and Labour leaderships interpreted as a message from voters to get on with delivering Brexit. Mrs May had been hoping the talks would deliver a compromise deal in time to allow her to call off the European elections. But more than a month after the talks began, Mr Lidington acknowledged time is now too tight to get a Withdrawal Agreement Bill through both Houses of Parliament by the date of the poll. Speaking at the Cabinet Office in Whitehall, he said that, after its Withdrawal Agreement was rejected three times by MPs, the Government was trying to find "a way forward that has maximum possible support amongst politicians of all political parties". The case of a Northern Ireland man accused of raping his two-week-old baby has been adjourned to confirm expert witnesses. Outstanding medical expert evidence is due from pathology, radiology, neurological and ophthalmic consultants, Newry Magistrates Court heard. DNA testing is also due on a nappy worn by the injured baby. The defendant, who cannot be named in order to protect identity of his alleged victim, appeared before Newry magistrates via video link. He has been held on remand in custody since his arrest about eight months ago. District judge Eamonn King alluded to the waiting time on expert witnesses to be confirmed as a credible delay. You cannot just conjure up expert witnesses out of thin air in the matter, said Mr King. The witnesses need to be confirmed and that they have been instructed. There will then be progress afterwards, added the magistrate. The accused had previously claimed he may have unintentionally hit the childs head off a wall while tired and frustrated. Prosecution has however, argued the injuries inflicted, including broken ribs and thigh bones, were so severe that they could not have been accidental. Four medical expert reports are now due to be completed but will not be provided to the courts for a suggested period of six months. The defendant faces charges of grievous bodily harm with intent and sexual assault of a child by penetration on September 29, 2018. Police were alerted after the baby was brought to Daisy Hill Hospital in Newry with unexplained injuries. The child had sustained a brain haemorrhage, a number of broken bones, traumatic bruising and was bleeding when admitted. Medical professionals believe the fractures may have been due to the use of significant force, such as through the tugging or twisting of limbs, the court heard. A consultant paediatrician provided an opinion earlier in the case that the baby had been sexually assaulted including penetration. The accused denies any sexual assault. Mr King adjourned the court for four weeks to confirm the expert witnesses. Seamus Close OBE, who has died following a short illness with liver cancer, was a former deputy leader of the Alliance Party, and a well-known political figure and media communicator. He was 71. Throughout his political career, he made a major contribution to consolidating the centre ground in a divided society. His death comes following recent local council elections when a surge in support for the Alliance Party saw it take 53 seats - an increase of 21. His passing has taken place when yet more talks are beginning to restore working devolution at Stormont. Seamus Close was known for his feisty character and direct conversational style - often laced with humour. Whether people agreed with him or not, they were aware he was a man of integrity who cherished the centre ground in politics. Current leader Naomi Long paid tribute yesterday, describing him as a hard-working, astute politician who advocated for ordinary people and someone who had "put in the hard yards" for the Good Friday Agreement. Former Alliance leader, David Ford said that while he didn't always agree with Mr Close, he never doubted his "unwavering commitment" to the party's principles. The DUP leader Arlene Foster said in a tweet that Mr Close was "admired and respected across the political spectrum". Seamus Anthony Close was born on August 12, 1947, and in his early 30s he began his political career by standing for Alliance in the second Fermanagh and South Tyrone by-election in August 1981, a pivotal period during the hunger strikes. Soon afterwards his political base moved to the then new Lagan Valley constituency and he became Alliance chairman between 1981-82, and then deputy leader for a decade from 1991. He was a member of the 1982 Northern Ireland Assembly for four years, and a member of the Northern Ireland Forum from 1996. In the 1998 election to the new Northern Ireland Assembly, he topped the poll in Lagan Valley, and in the 2001 general election he had the highest vote of any Alliance candidate. In June of that year he resigned as deputy leader but held his seat in the 2003 Assembly election. In 2006 he resigned from regional politics, but he had already made an important contribution to local government. He was Mayor of Lisburn from 1993-94. . Seamus Close is survived by his wife Deirdre and his children Christopher, Brian, Stephen and Natasha, and the wider family circle. The leaders of Northern Ireland's five main political parties have pledged to do everything possible to end the stalemate at Stormont and restore power-sharing. Speaking after a fresh talks process was launched yesterday, they acknowledged mounting public anger with the suspension of devolution for two-and-a-half years. The two governments unveiled a fresh talks initiative more inclusive than the previous one which ended in acrimony last year. Five working groups, which will include three politicians from each of the five parties, and representatives of London and Dublin, have been set up to address the issues preventing progress. They will be headed by senior current and former civil servants. The party leaders will hold weekly meetings with Secretary of State Karen Bradley and Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney to take stock of progress in the talks and agree the future agenda. A British-Irish intergovernmental conference meeting, which will include ministers from both governments, will be held in London today. The tone of yesterday's first round-table meeting of the party leaders at Stormont was described as more constructive and harmonious than a previous gathering earlier this year. DUP leader Arlene Foster said she was entering the talks with a "good heart" and the determination to find agreement. "We want devolution to work because we are a devolutionist party," she said. "We will not be found wanting in getting a deal to get Stormont up and running again. We are entering this talks process to find a way forward. "It has to, of course, be a balanced way forward and one that everyone in Northern Ireland is comfortable with, whether they are unionist, nationalist or indeed other - and I think that's very important. We are not looking at the prospect of failure - we want this to work." Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said her party was ready to do business. "The current stalemate is not acceptable and not sustainable, there are outstanding issues that need to be resolved, and we believe they can be resolved," she said. "If everybody is prepared to show leadership, if everybody is prepared to respect the clear public desire for equality and people's rights to be recognised and delivered on, we can find our way back to powersharing." UUP leader Robin Swann said the talks must not be just for the optics. "If (this) is simply window dressing then we're wasting our time and insulting the people of Northern Ireland. "If this is simply five parties sitting round a table again to re-establish red lines, we've let the people of Northern Ireland down. "If those parties who come in with red lines established are sticking by them, then they are letting the people of Northern Ireland down." SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said that in the past, the talks process had been "privatised between the DUP and Sinn Fein". "Any of us who have been knocking doors over the last few weeks will understand what the public are saying. They want us to get back to work, to come back together, to remember the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement," he said. Alliance leader Naomi Long said: "We are glad first and foremost that we are re-engaged around the table, it has been a long time coming. "We believe there is a short window of opportunity in which we can actually deliver devolution again here in this building. "That will require all parties to make compromises, it will require all parties to really focus their attention intensely over the next few weeks." Mrs Bradley asked that the parties be given "time and space" to address the issues and "come to the right conclusion for the people of Northern Ireland which is the restoration of devolution". Mr Coveney insisted progress could be made ahead of the EU election in a fortnight but acknowledged realistically that a deal may not emerge until after the poll. The separate working groups will address rights, language and identity issues including an Irish Language Act; reform of the petition of concern; a programme for government; transparency, accountability and the operation of the Executive; and improving the sustainability, stability and operation of the Good Friday Agreement institutions. Focus of the talks 1. Programme for Government. This will be led by the head of the NI Civil Service, David Sterling. The group will examine priority issues that would be in the in-tray of a future Executive, including problems facing the health and education sectors and specific strategies for prosperity, industry and investment. 2. Transparency, accountability and the operation of the Executive. This will be led by the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance, Sue Gray. It will build on previous discussions among the parties and consider further structural reforms if necessary. 3. Reform of the petition of concern. This will be led by Hugh Widdis, Departmental Solicitor and former Assembly Legal Counsel. 4. Rights, language and identity issues. This will be led by former Permanent Secretary of the Northern Ireland Department of Culture, Paul Sweeney. 5. Improving the sustainability, stability and operation of all the Good Friday Agreement institutions. This will be led by former Head of the NI Civil Service, Malcolm McKibbin. Courtney LaTour is the extension agent for Family and Consumer Science with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Brazoria County. Contact her at 979-864-1558 or clatour@ag.tamu.edu. A Co Down community has been plunged into sadness after a young woman lost her battle with cancer. Siobhan McCann (26), from the village of Clanvaraghan outside Castlewellan, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday evening, surrounded by family. Ms McCann, a keen GAA player, had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer while working as a physiotherapist in Fulham in April 2018. She moved home to be with her family while undergoing treatment. Three months later she was told the cancer had spread to her liver and surgery was no longer an option. The Co Down community rallied around to support Ms McCann, raising more than 110,000 to fund life-prolonging treatment through a series of events. Following her passing, St John's GAC, Drumnaquoile, for whom she played, paid a heartfelt tribute to the Co Down woman on social media. "Often in sad times such as the passing of someone we loved we are alone in our grief and we need to be with others who loved that person as much as we did," they said. "As a mark of the person that Siobhan was and the esteem her and her family are held in, we are already receiving a huge number of messages of support and offers of help." Friends of Ms McCann also took to social media to pay their respects, describing her as a "beautiful girl with an amazing heart". "A wonderful girl taken many, many years too soon. "Your wonderful personality and radiant smile will live forever in the hearts and memories of those who knew you," one friend wrote. "We have all lost a very special one this evening as she touched so many in such a positive way in her short time with us," said another. Chris Hazzard, Sinn Fein MP for South Down, said: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Siobhan McCann this evening - deepest sympathy to the McCann family and everyone at St John's GAC who will be devastated at this heartbreaking news." A funeral notice for Siobhan McCann read: "Peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family, Siobhan, dearly beloved daughter of Brendan and Geraldine and devoted sister of Grainne and Ciaran and cherished sister-in-law of Mark Seenan R.I.P." Her funeral service will be held at St Mary of The Angels Church in Clanvaraghan at 2pm tomorrow, with burial in the adjoining cemetery. Gerry Adams has repeated his denial that he was a member of the IRA, but said he will never disassociate himself from the organisation. The former Sinn Fein president was giving evidence to a fresh inquest into the killing of 10 people in the Ballymurphy area of Belfast in 1971. The episode dubbed the Ballymurphy massacre started on August 9 as the British Army moved into republican strongholds to arrest IRA suspects after the introduction by the Stormont administration of the controversial policy of internment without trial. A new inquest at Belfast Coroners Court is examining the deaths of 10 civilians, including a Catholic priest and a mother of eight, between August 9 and 11. Expand Close The victims of the shootings (PA) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The victims of the shootings (PA) Claims that IRA gunmen were in the area at the time have been disputed during the inquest hearings. David Heraghty, counsel for coroner Siobhan Keegan, put to the Louth TD that he was a senior member of the IRA in the area at the time. Mr Adams responded: I was not a member of the IRA, I have never disassociated myself from the IRA and I never will until the day I die. I understand that victims of the IRA wont like what I am saying I deeply regret there was a war. He praised the maturity of the IRA for embracing the peace process and fading away. A barrister for the Ministry of Defence pressed Mr Adams, suggesting he was sworn into D Company of the IRA in 1966. Mr Adams responded: Thats not correct. The barrister put to Mr Adams that he was commander of the IRA in the Ballymurphy area in November 1969. Mr Adams responded: Thats not correct. I gave a full answer to this question when it was put to me by Mr Heraghty. Expand Close Families outside Laganside Court in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Families outside Laganside Court in Belfast (Liam McBurney/PA) Earlier in the hearing, Mr Adams detailed how, during the mid to late 1960s, he was involved with republicanism, describing himself as an organiser and a member of Sinn Fein. The Provisional IRA is believed to have been founded in 1969, and went on to become the dominant force in violent Irish republicanism until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Mr Adams told the inquest that in 1969 he was in the minority as not having been involved with the military wing of republicanism. I had the distinction of having been active since the mid 1960s and having been involved in the type of agitated activity. I continued with that, he told the inquest. The military tendency within republicanism was the dominant tendency. Generals did what generals do. Individual soldiers were ordered to pacify, subdue and kill the enemyGerry Adams He described Ballymurphy in 1971 as being under a heavy and aggressive occupation by the British Army and claimed CS gas and rubber bullets were frequently deployed against residents. The British government opted for the military option and reneged on its political responsibilities, and handed it over to the generals, he told the inquest. Generals did what generals do. Individual soldiers were ordered to pacify, subdue and kill the enemy, and the enemy in this case were the decent people of Ballymurphy. It is hardly surprising that the Provisional IRA came into the ascendancy fairly quickly. Mr Adams said he did not witness any of the deaths despite his home being in Divismore Park. He said at that time he rarely slept at his family home following an incident when masked men called at the front and side doors looking for him, when he was staying with a friend in nearby Springhill Crescent. Mr Adams said his father and brother Liam were interned on August 9, and soldiers had asked for him. Asked whether the IRA had attacked the Army on August 9, Mr Adams told the inquest he did not have direct knowledge of the Provisional IRAs actions, but he understood it ordered no engagement with the British Army that day. He said there had been a rumour in the area that a gunman from the Official IRA had fired on the Henry Taggart Memorial Hall where the Army was based, but added that the bush telegraph in those days was sometimes accurate and sometimes inaccurate. He said it had been a sensible decision by the Provisional IRA not to engage the British Army, for the safety of the community and safety of the volunteers. The inquest continues. A review of how Northern Irelands justice system deals with serious sexual offences has recommended banning the public from trials. The Gillen Review, which commenced in May last year, is an independent review of how courts are set up to deliver justice in serious sexual offence cases. A former Lord Justice of Appeal, the Right Honourable Sir John Gillen, led the review, supported by an advisory panel. The most notable recommendation was that in order to protect the complainant in these cases, the public should be banned from attending trials. The families of those involved would still be allowed to attend, along with members of the press, to act as the eyes and ears of the public. Sir John first outlined the proposal in his preliminary report in November. Following a public consultation exercise, it has now been retained as a key recommendation in his final report. I have spoken to maybe 35 to 40 complainants, who have been through the system, and that sense of public humiliation, in a small place like Northern Ireland, where everybody knows everybody even if you get a few people attending trials in local areas such as Strabane or Newry or Derry, its like putting it in the paper, Justice Gillen said. They're at their most vulnerable moment when they are explaining these things, and to do it in front of the cruel gaze of the public is one of the reasons why we have such few people coming forward to report these offencesSir John Gillen Everybody knows everyone, and the legal right to have anonymity completely disappears. Secondly, this is the most intimate personal details of their lives, theyre at their most vulnerable moment when they are explaining these things, and to do it in front of the cruel gaze of the public is one of the reasons why we have such few people coming forward to report these offences. Its not the only reason, but its an important one. The overall conviction rate at the Crown Court for serious sexual assault cases dropped from 73.8% in 2016/17 to 63.8% in 2017/18. By comparison the Public Prosecution Services overall conviction rate for all offences in Crown Court is 85%. Justice Gillen says that due to the nature of the offences, conviction rates may never be extremely high. In serious sexual offences where its one word against the other, theres usually no witnesses, no forensics, neither of those involved have ever been in trouble before, youre always going to get a high bar set for conviction, all of those will always create a problem. With matters such as a rape, social media and other influences can influence the way juries look at these matters. The longest chapter in the Gillen Review, with the most recommendations made on one topic, concerns social media, which Justice Gillen says poses a real threat of polluting justice. Expand Close The Gillen Review report (Liam McBurney/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Gillen Review report (Liam McBurney/PA) Jurors are hearing and reading matters that they should not be and the idea of protecting the anonymity of the complainant disappears. The chances of the jury hearing completely prejudicial material is also something we have to address, he said. Even if its only two or three jurors hear this, that is enough to pollute the stream of justice, so Ive made a huge number of recommendations about that. If we keep the public out, apart from members of the press and the families of the complainant and accused, that will control to some extent the flow of social media information. A public consultation for the review engaged with more than 200 organisations and individuals, including victims, human rights groups, the judiciary, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, those with legislative responsibility for justice and the law, and those with an academic view. The team also conducted extensive research in Northern Ireland supported by the experiences of 16 countries and various jurisdictions across Europe, the US, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Justice Gillen added that his team had received 150 extensive written submissions, more than 400 respondents to an online survey and extensive public and media interest. The report has made 16 key recommendations covering more than 200 separate points, 75% of which do not involve legislative change, however some could be held up due to the suspension of the Assembly. The public has spoken and what they are saying, very loudly and very clearly, is that now is the time for radical improvement in the way our justice system deals with serious sexual offences, Justice Gillen added. The recommendations have been presented to the Criminal Justice Board. A Londonderry man accused of sexual activity with a child allegedly spoke of them being in a "steady" relationship, the High Court has heard. Prosecutors claimed Ciaran Bradley, 24, exchanged inappropriate photos and kissed the 15-year-old girl on three occasions. Bradley, of Moss Park in the city, is charged with sexual touching and possessing an indecent image of her on dates between January 1 and March 29 this year. Social services were alerted by someone concerned about the alleged relationship, a judge was told. A Crown lawyer said: "They had been sending what she described as dirty pictures. "Further information from other witnesses revealed (Bradley) had stated in a conversation that he and the child in question were 'steady'." Counsel went on: "His view was that the cops can't do anything about that as they have no proof whatsoever." Reference was also made to a latter where the accused allegedly said he did not care what the authorities thought about them being together. During police interviews Bradley insisted that he believed the girl was 16. Defence barrister Sean Doherty argued that the Crown was wrongly trying to portray his client as being "cunning, calculated and mendacious". Mr Doherty instead submitted: "He's a man of extremely limited intellectual capacity." He contended that there is no statement of complaint in a case involving allegations of kissing. "This is not the type of case where a man is obtaining sexual gratification as a consequence of his involvement with this girl," the lawyer claimed. Adjourning Bradley's application for bail, Mr Justice McAlinden requested an expert report to help address questions about any intellectual impairments and risk assessment. He said: "Because of the concern I have about the risk to young, vulnerable females in the care system I could not possibly grant bail unless those issues were properly bottomed out." A man accused of stabbing a father-of-one to death at a house party has been granted High Court bail. Michael McManus, 26, is charged with the murder of Niall Magee in Crumlin, Co Antrim. Mr Magee, 21, sustained a fatal knife wound to the face during an alleged attack at the property in the Cairn Walk area on April 27. He was taken to hospital by ambulance, but died later from his injuries. Expand Close Michael McManus (25) is charged with the murder of Niall Magee. Credit: Pacemaker Press / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Michael McManus (25) is charged with the murder of Niall Magee. Credit: Pacemaker Press According to police there were high levels of intoxication among people at the house. McManus, of Cairn Walk in Crumlin, denies the alleged murder. A previous court was told he had picked up a kitchen utensil in an attempt to ward off a violent attack in his own home. Bail was granted on a number of conditions which must be met before any release from custody. McManus is to live under curfew at an address approved by police and cannot enter Crumlin, the Courts Service confirmed. The terms set on Tuesday also include the lodgment of a 5,000 cash surety and a ban on contacting any potential witnesses. He must also surrender his passport and remain within Northern Ireland. Sara Canning, the partner of journalist Lyra McKee, at a vigil in Londonderry (PA) The partner of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has revealed she challenged the Prime Minister to legislate for same-sex marriage in Northern Ireland. Sara Canning said she told Theresa May at Ms McKees funeral in Belfast to move to change the laws through Westminster if local politicians failed to act on the issue. Ms Canning detailed the exchange as plans for a major rally in support of a law change were announced. If the politicians won't legislate for equal marriage at Stormont, then the Prime Minister should do it at Westminster. That's what I told Theresa May at Lyra's funeralSara Canning She will address the event outside Belfast City Hall on Saturday May 18. It is being organised by the Love Equality campaign an umbrella group made up of organisations that support a law change. Ms McKee was shot dead by dissident republicans during rioting in Londonderry last month. Efforts to find resolution to a range of disputes preventing the restoration of devolution, including same-sex marriage, have been injected with fresh urgency following her death. A new talks process started at Stormont on Tuesday. Marriage equality is a cause to which Lyra and I were very committed, said Ms Canning. Lyra and I were supposed to be on a big trip to New York this week. We were going to get engaged. We talked about getting married in Donegal, but really we wanted our love and our marriage to be recognised in Northern Ireland, just the same as the rest of our family members and friends. But to date, politicians have stopped that happening here, despite the fact that most people support equal marriage. If the politicians wont legislate for equal marriage at Stormont, then the Prime Minister should do it at Westminster. Thats what I told Theresa May at Lyras funeral. I wanted her to know that Lyra and I had a right to be treated as equal citizens in our own country. Surely thats not too much to ask? Myself and lots of Lyras friends and family are going to be marching for marriage equality. We hope people will join us. The ban on same-sex marriage is one of the disputes at the heart of the powersharing impasse in Belfast, with the DUP resisting Sinn Fein calls for a law change. The socially conservative DUP is firmly opposed to any redefinition of the law, insisting marriage should be between a man and a woman. It is time for political leaders in Belfast and London to respect the will of the people of Northern Ireland, which is overwhelmingly in support of marriage equalityPatrick Corrigan, of Amnesty International A majority of MLAs were in favour of lifting the ban when the issue last came to the floor of the Assembly chamber, but the DUP triggered a contentious voting mechanism the petition of concern to block it. Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland director of Amnesty International and a member of the Love Equality campaign for equal marriage, said: It is time for political leaders in Belfast and London to respect the will of the people of Northern Ireland, which is overwhelmingly in support of marriage equality. This march will be a demonstration of that support, a demand which must be heard in the corridors of Stormont and Westminster. Marriage equality in Northern Ireland is a litmus test for whether or not any future devolved government is committed to treating all citizens equally. If Stormont is incapable of delivering equality for people here, then it is the responsibility of Westminster to end discrimination against the LGBT community. A Government spokesman said: The Government supports the extension of marriage equality right across the United Kingdom, including for the people of Northern Ireland. However, we continue to believe that the best outcome is for a restored Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive to take forward this as a devolved issue as a matter of priority. We are absolutely focused on the restoration of devolved government through the ongoing process of talks. PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton ahead of the lecture Reflections on Policing with the Community at Queens Politicians are "shifting the blame" for the "stalling" peace process, the PSNI Chief Constable has said. George Hamilton said he was disappointed by public representatives who sympathised in private, then publicly claimed there was no confidence in policing. The departing chief of the PSNI said his work had been at times a painful experience, sometimes feeling part of progress but on occasion stuck or pulled backwards. He said: "I therefore find it disappointing when politicians from all parties give me tea and sympathy on the issue in private but in public talk of our failures in dealing with legacy and how this has created 'rock bottom confidence' in policing or partisan policing by only pursuing state actors... that is not effective accountability, that is point scoring - it is shifting the blame. "What policing needs on this issue is political honesty and leadership to bring about solutions. Families need that leadership and honesty, too. "I think it is a damning indictment that in the ongoing political vacuum, members of grieving families are passing away without any resolution, without justice and without answers." Legacy mechanisms to investigate wrongdoing during the 30-year conflict have not yet begun work. Stormont power-sharing has been suspended for around two-and-a-half years. A fresh bid for political agreement began yesterday. The Chief Constable said: "Across the political spectrum, those who should bear responsibility for supporting further progress have too often defaulted to the blame game. "They have retreated to their respective bunkers, finding it easier to blame the police without taking any responsibility for the context in which police are being asked to operate." Mr Hamilton expressed frustration at the collapse of his scrutiny body, the Policing Board, along with the devolved institutions. He addressed a meeting at Queen's University, Belfast with his reflections on policing with the community. Mr Hamilton is in his final two months as Chief Constable and said there was still little sign of progress. Last month journalist Lyra McKee (29) was shot dead by dissident republicans in Londonderry. She was a champion of inclusivity killed by young men lost in the margins of Northern Ireland's new beginning, the Chief Constable said. Following her death challenges had rightly been laid at the feet of political leaders to break the deadlock, Mr Hamilton added. He said there must be no underestimation that action and a resolution to the outstanding issues is badly needed. "Long before Lyra was murdered there was a sense that the peace process was stalling," he said. Ms McKee was shot by a gunman aiming to kill police. Mr Hamilton said: "One of the officers there that night was also the first on the scene of the bomb outside the (Derry) courthouse in January. "Without a thought for his own safety, he began to evacuate people from the area. "Windows blew in around him when the bomb exploded. "Another of the officers there that night had saved the life of a man who was involved in a car crash in the city, while two other officers had helped to save a life at the Foyle Bridge. "Earlier this year, a number of police officers prevented serious harm when they searched and recovered guns and blades at a graveyard in Park, just outside of Derry, while others have been involved in taking at least 200,000 of drugs off the streets of the city." Sinn Fein has hit back at PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton after he claimed politicians are attempting to "shift the blame" for the "stalling" peace process in Northern Ireland. The outgoing chief constable, in a speech at Queen's University, said he was disappointed by Northern Ireland politicians who sympathised in private, but then publicly claimed they had no confidence in policing. Read More He said: "I therefore find it disappointing when politicians from all parties give me tea and sympathy on the issue in private but in public talk of our failures in dealing with legacy and how this has created 'rock bottom confidence' in policing or partisan policing by only pursuing state actors... that is not effective accountability, that is point scoring - it is shifting the blame." In response Gerry Kelly, Sinn Fein's policing spokesman, said the party "will never shy away from challenging PSNI failings". Sinn Fein has always been entirely consistent with regards the legacy issue," the North Belfast MLA said. "The bodies agreed by all parties at Stormont House should be implemented and the British Government should end the stalling tactics which have prevented this from happening. That is the position we have always taken, in private and in public, in our engagements with the PSNI." Expand Close PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton ahead of the lecture Reflections on Policing with the Community at Queens PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton ahead of the lecture Reflections on Policing with the Community at Queens Legacy mechanisms to investigate wrongdoing during the Troubles have not yet begun work and Stormont power-sharing has been suspended for more than two years. Mr Hamilton also expressed frustration at the collapse of the Policing Board. Mr Kelly added: George Hamilton is right, the PSNI should not be investigating the past. After all, how could they do so independently? "But the delays that are frustrating him stem from the British Government which, almost five years after the Stormont House Agreement, have still to bring forward the legislation giving effect to it. The PSNI Chief Constable should also know that while we agree with his position on policing legacy cases, Sinn Fein will never shy away from holding the PSNI to account and challenging them when they get things wrong. It is only a matter of weeks since the Police Ombudsman uncovered appalling failings in the PSNIs handling of information disclosure relating to the Ormeau Bookies massacre and other atrocities carried out by death squads in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Those failings are further evidence of the need for the Stormont House bodies to be implemented and that should happen immediately. A Sunday school bus driver who was caught at more than twice the speed limit because he was late for church was given a month-long driving ban yesterday - on his birthday. Antrim Magistrates Court heard that self-employed plasterer Gareth James McIntyre, who celebrated his 33rd birthday yesterday, was driving his Range Rover at 70mph in a 30mph zone at 10.15am on October 7, last year. A prosecutor told the court that because of the speed, McIntyre, from the Portglenone Road in Randalstown, couldn't be given a fixed penalty notice. McIntyre's defence solicitor said the married father-of-three is the bus driver for a local Sunday school and on the day he was caught "he was going to be late". The solicitor conceded that while McIntyre already has six points on his licence, any driving ban would have serious consequences as his licence "is vital". "If he cannot drive, he cannot work and if he cannot work, he cannot pay his mortgage," submitted the lawyer. As well as the month-long ban for the excess speed, District Judge Nigel Broderick also fined McIntyre 300, telling the court that while he "recognised the consequences both in him and others", doing 70mph in an area where the speed limit is 30mph was "basically motorway speeds - so there must be a deterrent". Johnny Mercer int his office at the Houses of Parliament (Stefan Rousseau/PA) A Tory MP has told Theresa May he will no longer support the Government in the Commons unless the historical prosecutions of ex-servicemen and women ends. In a letter to the Prime Minister, former Army officer Johnny Mercer said he found the repeated investigations into allegations some dating back decades personally offensive. He said he was not to prepared to vote for Government legislation except on Brexit until the Government took clear and concrete steps to end the abhorrent process. As you know, the historical prosecution of our servicemen and women is a matter that is personally offensive to me. Many are my friends; and I am from their tribe, he wrote. I have written to the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/H3lJKI6oA5 Johnny Mercer (@JohnnyMercerUK) May 8, 2019 These repeated investigations with no new evidence, the macabre spectacle of elderly veterans being dragged back to Northern Ireland to face those who seek to re-fight that conflict through other means, without any protection from the Government who sent them almost 50 years ago, is too much. I will not be voting for any of the Governments legislative actions outside of Brexit until legislation is brought forward to protect veterans from being repeatedly prosecuted for historical allegations. Mr Mercer has campaigned against the pursuit of legacy cases from the conflicts in Northern Ireland, Afghanistan and Iraq since he entered Parliament in 2015. His intervention will be seen in Westminster as further evidence of the Prime Ministers crumbling authority. He recently accused the Tory whips office of contacting former Army comrades in an attempt to dig up dirt on him. He wrote in his letter: It has not been an easy decision to make. But this incident with your chief whip has forced my hand. It appears that my values and ethos may be slowly, but very firmly, separating from a party I joined in 2015. There was no immediate response from Downing Street to his letter. Seamus Close with former UUP leader David Trimble and former Alliance chief David Ford The late Seamus Close with his wife Deirdre, daughter Natasha and sons Christopher, Brian and Stephen The family of former Alliance Party deputy leader Seamus Close has revealed that "he used the last bit of strength he had left to whisper, 'I love you'". The 71-year-old had recently been diagnosed with liver cancer. Hw served as an Assembly Member for Lagan Valley from 1998 to 2007 and held a number of senior roles within the Alliance Party, including chairman. In a moving tribute to Mr Close, his family paid tribute to a "devoted husband, father and grandfather". "It is hard not to feel cheated or robbed of the hopes and dreams we had planned for the years ahead as a family; however it gives us great comfort to hear all the kind words from others who knew Seamus as a man of the people, who prided himself on his integrity and honesty," they said. "Most people will remember Seamus as a formidable, passionate politician, who connected with people from all walks of life to help bridge political divides and build a better, more peaceful future for Northern Ireland. "To us, however, Seamus was the greatest family man you can imagine." They said he had provided his wife Deirdre, three sons and daughter with "a lifetime of happy loving memories that will continue to live on in our hearts". "Seamus' greatest achievement in life was his family first, and his political career second," they continued. "We couldn't have asked for a more loving, caring husband and father. For that we will always be grateful." They added that "in true Seamus Close spirit, he fought his illness with the same dignity, courage and determination he had during the peace talks 20 years ago, right until the very end". "In his final moments he was surrounded by us, his family, where he used the last bit of strength he had to whisper, 'I love you'." They said he would be "Forever close in our hearts". Earlier, Alliance leader Naomi Long paid tribute, saying Mr Close was "larger than life and full of fun". "He was a straight-talker - people didn't always like the message he brought but he gave it to them with both barrels, and he's somebody I had huge affection for," she said. "So, genuinely really sad to have heard the news this morning. It's a very, very sad day - he will be really missed." She described him as a hard-working, astute politician who advocated for ordinary people and someone who had "put in the hard yards in negotiations, including those leading to the Good Friday Agreement, but he never lost the energy he had for helping people and creating a shared future for Northern Ireland". Former Alliance leader David Ford said that while he didn't always agree with Mr Close, he never doubted his commitment to the party's principles. He said: "I had my disagreements with Seamus on some tactics and minor points, but I never doubted his unwavering commitment to the principles of Alliance and to building a united community in Northern Ireland." DUP leader Arlene Foster said in a tweet: "He was a tenacious representative for his constituents and fiercely independent in his views. "He was admired and respected across the political spectrum". SDLP Lagan Valley MLA Pat Catney said he will fondly remember the late politician's wit. "Seamus could be an argumentative contrarian when the mood took him but I will fondly remember his sharp wit, good humour and infectious energy," he said. The current Mayor of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council, Uel Mackin, paid tribute Mr Close's council contributions, for which he was appointed OBE in 1997. He was made a Freeman of Lisburn City in 2010. "Seamus was very approachable and helpful, and always made everyone feel welcome, and a part of the Lisburn community. He was a passionate campaigner on subjects that mattered to the residents. "He was a true gentleman and an ambassador for Lisburn," he said. Trevor Lunn, who succeeded Mr Close a Lagan Valley MLA, said it was a sad day for everyone in Alliance. "Not only was Seamus a close friend in politics but he remained my best friend after his retirement. It is a sad day for everyone in the party but particularly the Lagan Valley Association, who knew him well. "Alliance achieved a great result in the recent local government election and it is thanks to the dedicated work of Seamus and others, who carried the load locally in some difficult years, that we were able to do that. "My thoughts and pra yers go to Deirdre and the rest of his family circle." A Free Presbyterian Minister - in referring to the DUP putting forward a gay woman for election - has claimed there is an agenda to condition Christians into thinking things that were once wrong were now acceptable. The comments were made by Reverend John Greer during a service at his church and before last week's local government elections, the BBC reported. In it he referred to the DUP's selection of Alison Bennington as a candidate and the party's first openly gay politician. "Christians are being conditioned into thinking that things that were once reprobated are now acceptable," he said from the pulpit of his Ballymena church. "That's what the world can do. It can influence a child of God into thinking and believing that these things are no longer wrong such as sodomy. "That's the big agenda today. Let's change the thinking of the people into thinking that sodomy is a lifestyle people are quite entitled to follow. "And now we have the DUP putting up their candidate who is an out and out lesbian." Referring to writings of the Apostle Paul, he added: "There we have before our very eyes what God has to say about the danger of an ungodly world, a corrupt world influencing the thinking of people who should know better." Read More The DUP and the Free Presbyterian Church were both founded by the late Ian Paisley. Reverend Greer told the BBC the remarks were part of a wider sermon and he would not dictate the DUP's choice of candidates. He said the Bible was the "final authority" stating his church had criticised all political parties that attempted to "normalise and promote marital and sexual relationships that are in contravention of the clear teaching of scripture" ahead of the elections. "If a party which once took a decision begins to move away from it, it's my duty as a Christian minister to highlight that," he told the broadcaster. Alison Bennington was elected to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council at last week's local government elections. However, some in the party have said there were "concerned" at the move by the party to endorse her to be a candidate. In a letter to party officers DUP councillor John Finlay said the late Ian Paisley would be "turning in his grave". The DUP has said it does not support the redefinition of marriage but does not discriminate against anyone and in its rules state everyone is equal. DUP leader Arlene Foster, in the wake of her election, said Ms Bennington had a lot to offer as a councillor and was "delighted" she had won a seat. Willie Frazer has been discharged after two weeks in hospital Victims campaigner Willie Frazer has described how he has been battling for his life in hospital. Mr Frazer, from Markethill in Co Armagh, spent four days in the intensive care unit at Craigavon Area Hospital after his blood pressure dropped to a dangerously low level. However, he said he was motivated to recover to ensure he can continue to fight for the truth about a series of bloody atrocities during the Troubles. "It was touch and go for a while, I have to admit that things didn't look good," he said. "I went up to A&E because I didn't feel very well and they thought everything was okay, but I was back a few hours later and that's when things got really bad. "Basically I've been waiting for an operation for my gall bladder and my blood pressure dropped and they couldn't get it back up again, so they put me in intensive care, "I came through it all right, thankfully, but they weren't sure whether I would make it at one point, so it was very hard for the family." Mr Frazer said his strong will kept him going. "I have to say it's the fight that keeps you going in a situation like that," he said. "I was speaking to my wife and pastor and I was smiling and he was asking what I was smiling for. I could hardly talk at this point and I told him there are a few things I have to finish so I wasn't going anywhere just yet. "He told me he liked my attitude. "At the end of the day I've made a commitment to a lot of people who have suffered an awful lot and hopefully, God willing, I will see that through before I do kick the bucket. "Of course, you never know when that's going to happen, we could all die in the morning, but this has given me a renewed focus and made me even more determined to do what I can. "The messages of support that me and my family have received since I went in to hospital have been incredible, so that shows I must be doing something right and I intend to continue the fight." Mr Frazer was diagnosed with carcinoma, a type of cancer, nine years ago and he believes his recent period of ill health is linked to the disease. He continued: "I have this cancer thing that can't be cured, but it can be contained - that's been going on for a number of years and the two problems would be slightly related. "When I was diagnosed with cancer in 2010 they didn't think I would pull through that either. "I'd gone into hospital and they thought I had a problem with my appendix, but when they opened me up to do the operation they found the tumour. "I was in hospital for eight weeks that time. "This most recent spell, I spent two weeks in hospital, but got out on Friday there and the staff were brilliant, they couldn't have done enough for me. "I got the best treatment. "I'm supposed to be taking it easy for a couple of months but it's hard because there is still work to be done." Mr Frazer posted a video on Facebook after he was discharged from hospital last Friday in which he pledged to uncover the truth for victims of IRA terrorist violence. "I will not allow terrorists to rewrite history," he said. Mr Frazer's dad, Bertie, was a part-time UDR officer murdered by the IRA in 1975. Two of his uncles and two cousins were also killed, with one of his uncles dying just 10 days after his father. In 2016, Mr Frazer revealed he has up to 12 death threats every day after he received a phonecall from an unknown person threatening that he and his family would be shot. A DUP councillor has written to party officers to express his "deep concern" at the decision to select an openly gay candidate to run in the Northern Ireland local elections. Alison Bennington became the DUP's first openly gay candidate to be elected when she won one of 14 DUP seats onto Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council last Friday. For a full breakdown visit our Election hub and check out the results from each council: Antrim and Newtownabbey --- Ards and North Down --- Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon --- Belfast --- Causeway Coast and Glens --- Derry and Strabane --- Fermanagh and Omagh --- Lisburn and Castlereagh --- Mid and East Antrim --- Mid Ulster --- Newry, Mourne and Down In a letter from DUP councillor John Finlay to party officers, published by journalist Patricia Devlin, the Ballymoney representative said the party's founder Ian Paisley would be "turning in his grave" if he knew about the decision. Read More He said he was "very upset" at the way in which Ms Bennington was selected, as many within the party were "totally unaware" of the decision until it was announced at the launch of the DUP's local government manifesto. For a full breakdown visit our Election hub and check out the results from each council: Antrim and Newtownabbey --- Ards and North Down --- Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon --- Belfast --- Causeway Coast and Glens --- Derry and Strabane --- Fermanagh and Omagh --- Lisburn and Castlereagh --- Mid and East Antrim --- Mid Ulster --- Newry, Mourne and Down Expand Close Alison Bennington PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Alison Bennington Mr Finlay said: "The candidate in question, Ms Alison Bennington, is openly gay. She has, apparently, previously indicated that she is in favour of same-sex marriage through a post on her Facebook page. "This sends out, at best, confusing signals to our support base which has consistently welcomed our strong stand on LGBT issues. "Indeed, the DUP is different from all other political parties, apart from the much smaller TUV, in its adherence to family values. "That has drawn support from across the community divide, but that support is clearly now being placed in jeopardy by the foolish decision in selecting Alison Bennington." Expand Close The DUPs first openly gay candidate, Alison Bennington, who has won a seat at Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council (Dave Pettard/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The DUPs first openly gay candidate, Alison Bennington, who has won a seat at Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council (Dave Pettard/PA) Mr Finlay goes on to ask party officers if Ms Bennington now agrees with party policy on same-sex marriage. He added: "It seems clear to me that we will lose votes on May 2 as a result of the Bennington decision. Our traditional support base cannot be taken for granted. I can feel the palpable sense of anger on the doorsteps and in various messages I have been receiving. "I am particularly disappointed that party officers who are committed Christians have either supported Ms Bennington's candidature or remained ominously silent. I think some soul-searching is now required." Mr Finlay said that while he accepted society's morals are changing the DUP needs to "continue to swim against the secular and godless tide." He added: "That has always been the DUP's strength, and we compromise on these matters at our peril. Dr Paisley must be turning in his grave." The DUP has not commented on the matter. A boy told a detective he believed that injuries which his co-accused claimed he had suffered in an assault by two older teens had been inflicted on him by schoolgirl Ana Kriegel, a trial in Dublin has heard. The court heard previously that 14-year-old Ana's body was found in a derelict house in Lucan, Co Dublin, days after she went missing in May last year. Two boys are standing trial for her murder. Detective Garda Marcus Roantree told the Central Criminal Court he had arranged to retrace Boy B's last interactions with Ana. When Mr Roantree met Boy B on May 17, 2018 Ana's body had just been found. Mr Roantree said Boy B told him he had heard Ana's body had been found and was nervous because he was one of the last people to be seen with her. Mr Roantree told the court Boy B told him Boy A and his mother had called at his house on May 15, and this was the first time he'd learned Boy A had been assaulted. Boy B said Boy A had spoken about it briefly. Mr Roantree said Boy B told him he believed "Ana did this to him", as Boy A would have had "more marks on his face" if he'd been assaulted by two older teens. Mr Roantree also said he took a voluntary DNA sample from Boy A on May 16, 2018 as well as photographs of the injuries he alleged he received when he was assaulted. Mr Roantree said Boy A told him that Ana had touched him, and put her hand across his shoulder and chest. Mr Roantree told prosecutor Brendan Grehan SC he hadn't asked Boy A any questions, and when he said Ana, the garda knew he was referring to Ana Kriegel, who was still missing. The court also heard Boy A helped gardai generate a computer image of the two older men he alleged assaulted him on the day Ana went missing. Detective Garda Mairead Crowley said she helped Boy A generate the image, of the two men he said attacked him in the park. Earlier, Mr Seamus Timmins said he had checked CCTV footage in the park between 4.30pm and 8pm on May 14, 2018 and he did not see any evidence of Boy A's alleged attackers. He accepted that not all the cameras in the park were working. In his evidence, Boy A's father said his son was "shaking" and had blood on his lip when he spoke to him at around 6pm. He said his son was limping, and his hands were scruffy and dusty. He told him he'd been "hopped" by two older youths in the park. The pair then drove around the park to see if they could spot anyone matching the descriptions his son had given him, but nobody fitted them. In her evidence, Boy A's mother said her son had been given permission to go out, and he'd come home around 6pm. He called her into his bedroom. He looked rattled and shaken, she said. Her son had a small spot of blood on his T-shirt as well as a small amount on his bottoms. He looked like "he'd been beaten up", she added, and he said he'd been attacked by two youths in the park. She later washed her son's clothes, she told the court. In cross examination, Boy A's mother accepted she couldn't remember exactly when her son had told her he had met Boy B in the park. Earlier, a doctor who examined Boy A said he had suffered "soft tissue injuries consistent with blunt force trauma". The GP gave evidence that Boy A told him he had been assaulted in a random attack about 5.30pm on May 14. The GP told the Central Criminal Court he conducted a brief examination, and found bruising and tenderness on the lower part of Boy A's back as well as swelling to his right knee. The teenager also had pain in his right wrist. The youths, aged 13 at the time, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ana (14) at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road in Lucan on May 14 last year. Boy A has also denied a charge of aggravated sexual assault. The trial continues. Andrea Leadsom is considering another bid to become Tory leader (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Cabinet minister Andrea Leadsom has said she is seriously considering standing for the Conservative leadership. Ms Leadsoms comment came as pressure increased on Theresa May to name a date for her departure and cross-party Brexit talks with Labour dragged on without a conclusion. Talks on a compromise deal were continuing in Whitehall, with Labour insisting the Government still needs to shift on its red lines. Discussions on Tuesday were described as constructive and detailed by Downing Street and very robust by Labour, with shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey saying: Nothing has been agreed yet. Senior Tory backbenchers on the executive of the 1922 Committee were due to meet in Westminster to discuss the outcome of a meeting at which chair Sir Graham Brady is believed to have set out to Mrs May MPs concerns about her position in the wake of last weeks disastrous local elections. The 1922 executive held back last week from approving a change in rules to allow Mrs May to face a no confidence vote from MPs before December. But Sir Graham made clear then that the group wants clarity on Mrs Mays plans to step down. The Prime Minister has promised to quit once her Withdrawal Agreement is ratified, but has not made clear what she will do if it fails to pass through Parliament. And with her effective deputy David Lidington suggesting he hoped the deal can be concluded by July, there is speculation she may seek to hang on until the annual party conference in the autumn. Ms Leadsom, who stood for the leadership in 2016 but pulled out to give Mrs May a clear run on the job, became the latest senior Tory to indicate she may throw her hat into the ring for the upcoming contest. The Leader of the Commons told ITV1s Good Morning Britain: Ive supported her for the last three years to get Brexit over the line. She has said shes going, so yes I am seriously considering standing. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) Ms Leadsom warned that the rise of the Brexit Party threatened to put Jeremy Corbyns Labour in power by costing the Tories seats in a general election. Thats something that keeps me awake at night, the prospect of a Marxist government coming in by the back door because people are so sick of the Brexit issue, she said. Thats why we absolutely have to leave. Ms Leadsom described Mrs Mays Brexit agreement as tolerable, but said she would be prepared to leave the EU without a deal. I dont say that no-deal is better than the Prime Ministers deal. I think the Prime Ministers deal is the best solution because it protects jobs and supply chains, said the Commons leader. What Im saying is at the same time I dont think no-deal would be the disaster some people portray it as. Meanwhile, Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage told GMB that Mrs May should go: Tory MPs have not got the backbone to get rid of her. They could have got rid of her last December, they should have done. She is without doubt not just the worst Prime Minister in my lifetime but the most dishonest as well. Expand Close Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee (Stefan Rousseau/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee (Stefan Rousseau/PA) International Trade Secretary Liam Fox strongly rejected the idea of the UK remaining in the EUs customs union, one of Labours key demands in the Brexit talks. At a trade conference in London, he said it would be bad for Britain and leave access to the UKs markets as a commodity to be traded by Brussels. The EU would be able to make access to the UK market part of their offer in any trade agreement and we would find ourselves in a unique position in our trading history in that we would be being traded. We would be a commodity in that particular agreement, where the EU would be able to offer access to the UK as part of their offer, he said. Its a situation that would leave the UK as a rule taker and in terms of our ability to shape trade policy would probably leave us in a worse situation than we are today, inside the EU. Expand Close (PA Graphics) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp (PA Graphics) Senior Tory activists will consider the question of Mrs Mays leadership at an emergency meeting of association chairmen, set for Saturday June 15. The treasurer of the 1922 Committee, Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, told the Press Association he would back their bid to force Mrs May out with a no-confidence vote next month if she did not go of her own volition. The Tory MP for the Cotswolds said it was the Prime Ministers decision on when she should go but he would absolutely support grass roots moves to try to topple her in June if her departure date was not imminent. When asked what should happen if Mrs May failed to set out her own timetable for departure, he said: It begins to get much more messy. It would be much easier and I think the European elections would be much easier if she did set out her own timetable to go but it is up to her. I think its quite possible they (grass roots members) might vote for no-confidence in June. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have named their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The couple announced the baby's name on their Instagram account, alongside a picture of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh meeting their great-grandchild. The picture was captioned: "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. "This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen to her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess mother were also present for this special occasion." Meghan and Harry proudly showed off their baby son to the world for the first time on Wednesday afternoon, describing him as having the "sweetest temperament". Meghan and Harry could not hide their delight as they posed for pictures with the tiny infant in the majestic St George's Hall in Windsor Castle, just two days after he was born. The duchess declared: "It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy." As her husband held their son, Meghan added: "He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm." As they both laughed, Harry said: "I don't know who he gets that from." Meghan added: "He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days." The American former actress gave birth to the overdue 7lb 3oz boy on Monday at 5.26am. The baby, whose name has not yet been announced, is seventh in line to the throne and the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh's eighth great-grandchild and the Prince of Wales's fourth grandchild. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close MANDATORY CREDIT: Chris Allerton - copyright SussexRoyal NEWS EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO COMMERCIAL USE. NO MERCHANDISING, ADVERTISING, SOUVENIRS, MEMORABILIA or COLOURABLY SIMILAR. NOT FOR USE AFTER FRIDAY JUNE 7, 2019, WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM ROYAL COMMUNICATIONS AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE. This photograph is provided to you strictly on condition that you will make no charge for the supply, release or publication of it and that these conditions and restrictions will apply (and that you will pass these on) to any organisation to whom you supply it. There shall be no commercial use whatsoever of the photographs (including by way of example only) any use in merchandising, advertising or any other non-news editorial use. The photograph must not be digitally enhanced, manipulated or modified in any manner or form and must include all of the individuals in the photograph when published. All other requests for use should be directed to the Buckingham Palace Press Office in writing. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are joined by her mother, Doria Ragland, as they show their new son, born Monday and named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 8, 2019. See PA story ROYAL Baby. Photo credit should read: Chris Allerton/copyright SussexRoyal PA WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) ***BESTPIX*** Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) ***BESTPIX*** Getty Images Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (R), and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose for a photo with their newborn baby son in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Windsor, west of London on May 8, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP)DOMINIC LIPINSKI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, places her hand on the head of her newborn baby boy as she and her husband Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, pose for a photo in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Windsor, west of London on May 8, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP)DOMINIC LIPINSKI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, places her hand on the head of her newborn baby boy as she and her husband Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, pose for a photo in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Windsor, west of London on May 8, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP)DOMINIC LIPINSKI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (R), and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose for a photo with their newborn baby son in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Windsor, west of London on May 8, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP)DOMINIC LIPINSKI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 8, 2019. See PA story ROYAL Baby. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA WINDSOR, ENGLAND - MAY 08: Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) Getty Images TOPSHOT - Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (R), and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose for a photo with their newborn baby son in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Windsor, west of London on May 8, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski / POOL / AFP)DOMINIC LIPINSKI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images EMBARGOED to 1240 WEDNESDAY MAY 08 2019. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 8, 2019. See PA story ROYAL Baby. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp MANDATORY CREDIT: Chris Allerton - copyright SussexRoyal NEWS EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO COMMERCIAL USE. NO MERCHANDISING, ADVERTISING, SOUVENIRS, MEMORABILIA or COLOURABLY SIMILAR. NOT FOR USE AFTER FRIDAY JUNE 7, 2019, WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM ROYAL COMMUNICATIONS AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE. This photograph is provided to you strictly on condition that you will make no charge for the supply, release or publication of it and that these conditions and restrictions will apply (and that you will pass these on) to any organisation to whom you supply it. There shall be no commercial use whatsoever of the photographs (including by way of example only) any use in merchandising, advertising or any other non-news editorial use. The photograph must not be digitally enhanced, manipulated or modified in any manner or form and must include all of the individuals in the photograph when published. All other requests for use should be directed to the Buckingham Palace Press Office in writing. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are joined by her mother, Doria Ragland, as they show their new son, born Monday and named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 8, 2019. See PA story ROYAL Baby. Photo credit should read: Chris Allerton/copyright SussexRoyal Harry added: "Another great grandchild." Later, asked to show more of their son's face to the cameras, Meghan laughed as Harry joked: "He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well, wonderful." Meghan added: "Thank you everybody for all the well wishes and kindness, it just means so much." Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshir. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday May 8, 2019. See PA story ROYAL Baby. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Harry said they were looking forward to spending some "precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up." Asked about going to see the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, Meghan said: "We just bumped into the duke as we were walking by which was so nice. So it'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well." Amid surroundings steeped in royal history, the latest royal baby made his debut behind closed doors, with a small press pool of only one reporter, one photographer, three cameramen, as well as the couple's own private photographer and a household press officer photographer. The committee will look at proposals set out by the Scottish Government aimed at changing the culture around whistle-blowing (Peter Byrne/PA) The views of NHS staff are being sought as part of a consultation on plans to address how whistle-blowers are treated. Holyroods Health and Sport Committee raised concerns last year, as part of its inquiry into how NHS staff are managed, that the current arrangements for whistle-blowers are not adequately robust. In its report, the committee said significant changes would be needed to ensure concerns can be raised by staff, with a third found to be unwilling to speak up. Expand Close Lewis Macdonald MSP is the convener of Holyroods Health and Sport Committee (Scottish Parliament/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lewis Macdonald MSP is the convener of Holyroods Health and Sport Committee (Scottish Parliament/PA) Fears among staff that they could be blacklisted when looking for a new job if they had been a whistle-blower were also raised as part of the inquiry. A proposal to address the issue has been put forward by the Scottish Government which would see the Scottish Public Service Ombudsman (SPSO) act as the Independent National Whistleblowing Officer (INWO) for Scotlands NHS. It would mean the role of the SPSO, completely independent of Government, would be to review how the health board, family health service or independent provider handled the whistle-blowing concern, and if it acted reasonably in making any decision. It would also be able to investigate the treatment of the whistle-blower by their employer. Legally-binding protections for doctors in training and other postgraduate trainees who are whistle-blowers have also been introduced by the Government. NHS staff should be able to report any concerns they have in confidence.Lewis Macdonald MSP Health and Sport Committee convener Lewis Macdonald said: Our review last year into the governance of NHS Scotland raised a number of concerns when it came to the issue of whistle-blowing. The report made clear that the current whistle-blowing arrangements were not nearly robust enough in terms of their effectiveness or independence from NHS employers and Scottish ministers, and that whistle-blowers must not be prejudiced as a consequence of their actions. We want to hear from those working as part of Scotlands NHS to see whether they feel these proposed Scottish Government changes will give them sufficient assurances to make them feel comfortable to blow the whistle. The committee is clear that all NHS staff should be able to report any concerns they have in confidence and that those concerns must be fully investigated in a fair, transparent and independent manner. A Scottish Government spokeswoman said: This is a welcome development which will contribute to the continued work we are undertaking to embed a positive culture across the NHS. On April 30, the Scottish Government introduced legislation to the Scottish Parliament to allow the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman (SPSO) to take on the role of Independent National Whistleblowing Officer for NHS Scotland (INWO). The SPSO, in her role as INWO, will independently review the internal handling of whistleblowing cases where there has been a complaint and will also investigate how the individual has been treated as a result of whistle-blowing. We anticipate that the INWO role will be established by summer 2020. Two men have been jailed for a total of 29-and-a-half years after setting up a handgun factory supplying weapons to Londons criminal underworld. Kyle Wood and Greg Akehurst, both 30, and a third man, Mark Kinman, 63, were in the process of manufacturing around 120 weapons at the site in Hailsham, East Sussex, when it was raided on August 18 last year. The National Crime Agency (NCA) believes the illegal factory, which operated under the name MFK Engineering, is the first of its kind to be uncovered in the UK. Watch as NCA Deputy Director of Investigations Chris Farrimond discusses how two men have been jailed for a combined 29-and-a-half years for conspiring to sell handguns made at an illegal gun factory in East Sussex. Full story: https://t.co/fnT3cLCQZY pic.twitter.com/1sF9wFRsVX National Crime Agency (NCA) (@NCA_UK) May 8, 2019 The weapons were based on the design of the Browning 1922-type pistol by building a template from an original. None of the weapons had serial numbers or manufacturers markings, indicating they had been made by Kinman the craftsman of the operation from scratch. Wood, from Littlehampton, West Sussex, and Akehurst, of no fixed address, were tracked to the industrial estate on Diplocks Way and tried to flee, resulting in a standoff with an NCA firearms unit. Akehurst was quickly detained and was found with a loaded firearm tucked in his waistband, but Wood tried to escape on foot and pulled a handgun from his pocket, prompting officers to Taser him. Expand Close Greg Akehurst (National Crime Agency/PA) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Greg Akehurst (National Crime Agency/PA) He was found to have a plastic bag full of ammunition on him following his arrest. Kinman left the MFK unit a short while later and was found to have three rounds of ammunition in his pocket upon arrest. Akehurst was jailed for 18 years at Kingston Crown Court after admitting possessing a firearm and conspiracy to sell or supply firearms. Wood was jailed for 11-and-a-half years after admitting conspiracy to sell or supply firearms on the first day of his trial on May 1, having previously admitted possession of a firearm. Kinman admitted the same charges but died in prison before he could be sentenced. Expand Close Mark Kinman (National Crime Agency/PA) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mark Kinman (National Crime Agency/PA) Since the three were arrested, six guns made at their factory have been found by police one of which had been used in two attempted murders in the capital. NCA deputy director of investigations Chris Farrimond said following the sentencing: This case is unique. It is the first time that the NCA or indeed any UK law enforcement has found an illegal gun factory of this nature. He added: The weapons being made there were lethal and for the criminal marketplace. The fact they had no serial markings made them all the more valuable to criminals. They represented a direct and real danger to our communities. A number of the weapons manufactured there we know have been used to commit violent acts on the streets. Expand Close Kyle Wood (National Crime Agency/PA) Press Association Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Kyle Wood (National Crime Agency/PA) Detective Chief Inspector Steve Rayland, of Sussex Police, said: Intelligence gathered by our officers was instrumental in helping to start this NCA investigation, and our local officers, with our specialist search and firearms teams, also provided valuable support when NCA officers carried out the arrests in Hailsham. He added: This is another example of the way in which intelligence gathered from local people can impact on the constant need to combat organised criminality at national level. However, there is no evidence that the weapons being produced were intended for use in Sussex, or that there was any specific risk to communities in Sussex. Former prime minister Tony Blair has spoken out against the prospect of a second Scottish independence referendum, insisting such a vote should not take place unless there is a really big groundswell of opinion for it. The one-time Labour leader, whose government created the Scottish Parliament, voiced his fears that a fresh vote on independence could fundamentally damage the UK. Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has already made clear her desire to hold a ballot within the next two years. Expand Close Nicola Sturgeon (Andrew Milligan/PA) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Nicola Sturgeon (Andrew Milligan/PA) The SNP leader cites Scotland being removed from the European Union against the wishes of voters north of the border as grounds for another referendum, arguing this is a material change in circumstances from the 2014 vote. But Mr Blair told The Herald: I dont think we should have one unless there really is a big groundswell of opinion for it and I dont see that. To be brutally frank about it, the last thing we need at this moment is another huge dose of constitutional uncertainty, we really would start to damage ourselves fundamentally as a country. Mr Blair spoke out in an interview to mark the 20th anniversary of the first Holyrood elections in 1999. Expand Close Then prime minister Tony Blair (centre) at the Scottish Parliament in 2000, with then presiding officer Sir David Steel (left) and first minister Donald Dewar (right). (Ben Curtis/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Then prime minister Tony Blair (centre) at the Scottish Parliament in 2000, with then presiding officer Sir David Steel (left) and first minister Donald Dewar (right). (Ben Curtis/PA) The Parliament came into being after Scots voted for the devolved assembly in a referendum in September 1997 four months after he was voted in as PM following a landslide Labour victory. In the interview he stressed he still wanted Scotland to be part of the UK, saying people should be in no doubt about that. But he conceded that Brexit was seen by independence supporters as another reason for Scotland to break away from the rest of the UK If youre a Nationalist, it gives you an additional argument, which is another very good reason, by the way, for not doing Brexit, Mr Blair argued. SNP depute leader Keith Brown said: In 2014 Tony Blair backed the campaign which told the people of Scotland that the only way to protect their place in Europe was to reject independence. Five years on and that has been exposed as the myth it always was, with Scotland set to be dragged out of Europe against our will. Independence is now the opportunity to save Scotland from the damage of a Tory Brexit. Support for independence is on the rise as more and more people back the opportunities of taking our future into our own hands, over the chaos of Westminster rule which continues to ignore Scotlands interests. A Conservative MP has withdrawn his support for the government over the prosecution of Troubles soldiers. Former Army officer Johnny Mercer announced on Twitter he would no longer vote for any of his government's legislative actions - save for Brexit - until new laws are put in place protecting veterans and ending the "abhorrent process" of prosecuting soldiers for historical allegations. I have written to the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/H3lJKI6oA5 Johnny Mercer (@JohnnyMercerUK) May 8, 2019 The Plymouth Moor View MP said he could not support the government while "one particular injustice continues unabated". He said the historical prosecution of servicemen and women was "personally offensive" to him. "You will not meet a serving soldier who does not believe that those who break the law on operations should be prosecuted," he wrote in his letter to the Prime Minister. "But these repeated investigations with no new evidence, the macabre spectacle of elderly veterans being dragged back to Northern Ireland to face those who seek to re-fight the conflict through other means without any protection from a Government who sent them almost 50 years ago, is too much." Mr Mercer said there were options available to the Prime Minister which the Government was refusing to make a decision on. He said it appeared his values and ethos may be slowly "but very firmly separating from the party I joined". Read More The MP said a recent episode with the whips office of his party had "ground out any residual co-operation". Last month he received an apology from chief whip Julian Smith after claims attempts were made from his officer to provide "dirt" on Mr Mercer. His decision to withdraw support for the government comes after the Public Prosecution Service deemed there was enough evidence to charge one soldier with murder and attempted murder over the incidents during Bloody Sunday in Derry in 1972. What the papers say May 8 (PA) Rows over Brexit, a Ukip election candidate investigated over rape comments and royal baby speculation are among the front pages stories on Wednesday. Many papers also feature images of Liverpool FC players and manager Jurgen Klopp after the sides miraculous 4-0 win over Barcelona. Leading with Brexit, the Financial Times reports that hopes for a deal between the Conservatives and Labour faded on Tuesday after Downing Street set August 1 as the new date for Britain to the leave the EU. Just published: front page of the Financial Times, UK edition, Wednesday 8 May https://t.co/kesVVcpkyq pic.twitter.com/8Ux5VQn9uS Financial Times (@FinancialTimes) May 7, 2019 Ministers also confirmed that EU elections will be held in the UK later this month, prompting fury, the Daily Express reports. The Times says Theresa May is now set to stay as Prime Minister until the autumn in order to complete negotiations over Britains EU departure. The Times 8/5/2019 Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp celebrates after the final whistle, where Liverpool beat Barcelona 4-0 to reach the Champions League final. They trailed 3-0 after the first leg. Photo : Martin Rickett/Empics/PA#thetimes #tomorrowspaperstoday @thetimes pic.twitter.com/bdLg5RNpa9 The Times Pictures (@TimesPictures) May 7, 2019 The PM was warned the party is in absolute meltdown by Dinah Glover, a Tory grassroots activist, the i reports. The Guardian leads with a police inquiry into Carl Benjamin, a Ukip candidate in the European elections, who released a video suggesting he might rape Labour MP Jess Phillips. The Guardian front page, Wednesday 8 May 2019: Police inquiry into MP rape threat by Ukip candidate pic.twitter.com/GOiGU9ygzs The Guardian (@guardian) May 7, 2019 Mr Benjamin tweeted that he wouldnt even rape the Birmingham Yardley MP, the Metro reports. In other news, the Daily Mirror reports on the first day of inquests for the victims of the London Bridge terror attack. The Daily Mail wonders whether the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will apply for an American passport for their baby son. The Daily Telegraph reports on the Parliamentary spending watchdogs oversight of MPs credit cards. The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph: 'Expenses watchdog tries to stop fresh expose' #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/aI5HUs0TJF The Telegraph (@Telegraph) May 7, 2019 And The Sun leads with a study that suggests fewer than half of Britons have sex at least once a week and rates are declining. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison had a lucky escape after a protester tried and failed to crack an egg on his head. The 24-year-old protester hit the top of Mr Morrisons head with the egg, but it bounced off. The protester, Amber Holt, was carried outside and later charged with common assault and possession of cannabis. The egg was later picked up by ABC journalist Dan Conifer. He said on Twitter that it didnt seem to have been boiled. A protester thrown an egg the Prime Minister Scott Morrison at an event in Albury (it didnt break). #auspol #ausvotes @politicsabc pic.twitter.com/7KYWbKrrun Dan Conifer (@DanConifer) May 7, 2019 The ensuing commotion after the egg was thrown caused a 70-year-old woman to be knocked to the floor. Mr Morrison helped Margaret Baxter to her feet and she said she was very grateful for his assistance. Baxter later said she had been knocked over, and that she landed on her hip but was not injured. My concern about todays incident in Albury was for the older lady who was knocked off her feet. I helped her up and gave her a hug. Our farmers have to put up with these same idiots who are invading their farms and their homes. Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) May 7, 2019 The protest comes a week before an Australian general election, and Mr Morrison called for more civility in the campaign. Pardon the pun, but I dont want to over-egg this thing, he said. At the same time, what my concern was, for Margaret and the disregard the individual seemed to have for those others who were in the room. Mr Morrison later tweeted: We will stand up to thuggery whether its these cowardly activists who have no respect for anyone, or militant unionists standing over small businesses and their employees on work sites. French president Emmanuel Macron lays a wreath of flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe (Martin Bureau, Pool via AP) French president Emmanuel Macron has relit the flame of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during a ceremony to mark the 74th anniversary of the Second World War victory over Nazi Germany. President Macron laid a wreath at the tomb under the Arc de Triomphe, surrounded by military officials and guests, including several veterans of the war and former presidents. Commemorating the victory of the Allies over Nazi Germany on May 8 1945, 11 months after the D-Day landings in Normandy, is a ritual for French presidents. Expand Close President Macron at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Christian Hartmann, Pool via AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Macron at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Christian Hartmann, Pool via AP) Horses of the Republican Guard escorted President Macrons car up the Champs-Elysees Avenue to the monument. The president also laid a wreath at the statue of Charles de Gaulle, the general revered for leading the French Resistance and later elected president. Parents hug as they wait for their children at the recreation centre where students were reunited with their parents after a shooting (David Zalubowski/AP) A teenager was killed and eight students injured after two students opened fire at a school in Denver, Colorado. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the pair walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch and began shooting students in two classrooms. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriffs department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Expand Close Vehicles block the road to the STEM Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Vehicles block the road to the STEM Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) As officers were arriving at the school, they could still hear gunshots, Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said. Authorities have identified one of the suspects as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. Mr Spurlock said the second suspect is a juvenile and that both attended the school and neither were previously known to authorities. I have to believe that the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives I have to believe that the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives, he said. The shooting comes nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about seven miles in adjacent communities south of Denver. Expand Close A law officer protects a busload of students at a recreation centre (David Zalubowski/AP AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A law officer protects a busload of students at a recreation centre (David Zalubowski/AP Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence, White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. US president Donald Trump had been briefed on the shooting and was in touch with state and local officials, he said. As the gunfire rang out, students ran through the halls shouting School shooter! Some wondered at first if it was a joke or a drill. At the moment no one really knew what was going on so I didnt know they were bullets, said pupil Sophia Marks. I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs. Chris Elledge, 15, said his teacher told the class to hide behind weight equipment in the room, where they stayed until police arrived. They busted in the room, and they were asking if there was any suspects in the room, if we were OK, and they escorted us out to go out to the front of the building, he said. Three hospitals reported treating eight people in connection with the attack, including two who were listed in serious condition. "It is not enough to send thoughts and prayers, it is empty, it is weak, and it does an injustice to our children who are on the frontlines of this violence," Crow said in a statement. https://t.co/k7reUdMZqJ Jason Crow (@JasonCrowCO) May 8, 2019 Democratic Representative Jason Crow, a gun-control supporter whose congressional district includes STEM, said the gun violence cannot continue. It is not enough to send thoughts and prayers. It is empty. It is weak, and it does an injustice to our children who are on the front lines of this violence, he said. Police outside the school in Highlands Ranch (David Zalubowski/AP) Seven people have been injured in a shooting at a school in Denver, Colorado. Two people were in custody, authorities said. Douglas County undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said there was possibly an eighth injured person. She said she did not believe there were any other gunmen, but tactical teams were still searching the school room by room. She did not know if there were fatalities or other details about the victims or the extent of their injuries. Expand Close Armed police officers at the school (Courtney Harper via AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Armed police officers at the school (Courtney Harper via AP) Lines of fire engines, ambulances and law enforcement vehicles from multiple agencies were at the school and medical helicopters landed on a grassy field. The shooting happened at a school in Highlands Ranch, which has more than than 1,850 students from reception age to 17. The sheriffs office said they were called to the school at about 1.50pm. Ms Nicholson-Kluth said police and deputies got there almost immediately and heard shots as they arrived. The school is near a sheriffs department substation. The sheriffs office directed parents to a nearby recreational centre to pick up their children. We are making all of our public safety resources available to assist the Douglas County Sheriff's Department in their effort to secure the site and evacuate the students. We are monitoring the situation in real time. The heart of all Colorado is with the victims & their families. Governor Jared Polis (@GovofCO) May 7, 2019 Rocco DeChalk, who lives near the school, told television station KUSA that he saw so many students running past his house that at first he thought it was a gym class. He went outside and saw a teenage boy who had been shot in the back being helped by a teacher and another student. They took the boy into his kitchen and alerted a police officer, who sent for an ambulance. A fleet of school buses arrived and dropped off students, some of whom were crying and holding hands with their classmates as they were helped off. Governor Jared Polis said in a statement that he was making state public-safety resources available to help secure the site and evacuate students. The heart of all Colorado is with the victims and their families, he said. The shooting comes nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school shooting that left 13 people dead. The two schools are separated by about seven miles in communities south of Denver. The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt of Congress. The move escalates the Democrats extraordinary legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Muellers Trump-Russia report. The vote capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and President Donald Trump. For the first time he invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the full report on Mr Muellers probe of Russian interference to help Mr Trump in the 2016 election. Expand Close House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler (J Scott Applewhite/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler (J Scott Applewhite/AP) Committee chairman Jerrold Nadler declared the action by Mr Trumps Justice Department a clear new sign of the presidents blanket defiance of Congress constitutional rights. Every day we learn of new efforts by this administration to stonewall Congress, Mr Nadler said. This is unprecedented. But White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said it was rather a response to the blatant abuse of power by Mr Nadler, a Democrat. Neither the White House nor attorney general Barr will comply with chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands, she said. Though the White House initially hesitated on invoking privilege, Mr Trump told his staff and political advisers in recent weeks to refuse to co-operate with Democrats, believing the partys goal was simply to damage him politically going into his re-election campaign. The coming legal battle could stretch to 2020, and the White House is aiming to tie up congressional probes until election day. Executive privilege is the presidents power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. The presidents decision was weeks in the making, the next inevitable escalation between the White House and Congress over a number of probes. The White House has rejected all efforts to probe Mr Trumps business dealings or tax returns as well as the West Wings security clearance procedure. The committee voted along party lines, 24-16, to hold Mr Barr in contempt but only after some five hours of heated and, at times, emotional testimony. Democrats, who have the majority in the House, made their case that Congress was at a historic juncture as it confronts what they consider Mr Trumps stonewalling of lawmakers ability to conduct oversight of the administration. Republicans portrayed the majority as angry and lashing out at Mr Barr after the special counsel did not find that Mr Trump colluded with Russia to swing the 2016 election. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the next step after the committee vote will be consideration by the full House. If approved by the House, where the Democrats hold a solid majority, the contempt resolution would almost certainly move to an unusual, and potentially protracted, multi-pronged court battle with the Trump administration. Here are some sobering facts. Unionists are now a minority of the 462 councillors elected last Thursday. There are only 19 unionists out of 60 councillors in Belfast. Only six of the 20 MLAs in the Belfast constituencies are unionist. Unionists are now a minority in the Assembly: 40-50. In the greater Belfast area (covering the Belfast, North Down and Ards, Castlereagh and Lisburn and Antrim and Newtownabbey council areas) Alliance outpolled the UUP by almost 50,000 to 35,000 votes. The Green Party outpolled the UUP in Belfast by 6,785 to 6,709 (enabling them to pick up two of their four seats because UUP candidates were eliminated first), while People Before Profit ran just 954 votes behind the UUP. Both those smaller parties ended up with more councillors. It is now possible that unionists could lose their second Euro seat on May 23. The UUP's Danny Kennedy will not only be competing with the DUP and TUV for first preferences, he will also be in a major transfer battle for survival. Naomi Long looks well-placed, assuming she's able to hold on to Alliance's 11.5% vote (which I think is likely), to benefit from significant trickle-down from Sinn Fein, SDLP and others. If the second unionist seat is lost it will not only be a hammer-blow for the UUP (which has held it since 1979), it will also be an enormous psychological blow for unionism: another piece of hard electoral confirmation that just holding on to what they have may be an even bigger challenge than making gains. It's okay for the DUP to say that they are continuing to hold on and add on, but that doesn't really mean all that much if the overall unionist vote continues to decline. In the 2014 local council elections, there were 24 unionist councillors in Belfast: 13 DUP, seven UUP, three PUP and one TUV. There are 19 now. The DUP added two, but the overall unionist numbers fell. At some point soon, it will probably be impossible for the DUP to hold on to their MPs in North and South Belfast, even if they have an electoral pact with other unionists. Even in East Belfast, which was once the brightest jewel in unionism's electoral crown, the DUP will probably require a pact. And the more pacts are required to hold seats, the likelier it is that the small unionist parties - PUP and TUV - will vanish altogether, while the UUP finds it impossible to resist the electoral arguments in favour of a formal merger with the DUP. A few weeks ago, a veteran unionist said to me: "Did you ever think the time would come when unionists needed a pact to secure East Belfast?" I talked to him again on Saturday. He shook his head: "Dear me, I never thought I'd see the day when Alliance would have more councillors in Belfast than the UUP. How do we stop this?" I have a very close friend: we've known each other since university days in the 1970s. He would always have voted unionist. That is, until the 2010 General Election. He voted for Naomi Long; and he has voted Alliance in every election since then. He doesn't regard himself as any less of a unionist and would vote to remain in the UK if there were a border poll. When I discussed the council elections with him on Sunday he made a point I had never really considered before: "When it comes down to it, Alex, I would now describe myself as pro-Union rather than just a unionist. There is a big difference between the two terms and I don't think the unionist parties have recognised that difference. Alliance isn't picking up 'unionist' votes as such; it is picking up pro-Union people like me. People who find themselves increasingly uncomfortable with how unionism manifests itself here." As I say, I'd never really considered this point before. But it's a good one. When the Alliance Party was formed, it was regarded as a pro-Union, small unionist party. Many of its early members and founders were rising to the challenges set out in Terence O'Neill's "Ulster at the Crossroads" speech; as well as responding to the rise of Paisley, William Craig's Vanguard and what they regarded as a drift to the hard Right. In their first five elections - 1973-1979 - they won an average of 11.5% of the vote (which is what they won again last Thursday), mostly from within the pro-Union/unionist community. As the Troubles took hold, they faded into the electoral background. Are we now seeing the re-emergence of that earlier Alliance core; people who want to stay in the UK, but who aren't happy with the message coming from the DUP/UUP/TUV/PUP? It has become almost a cliche to hear elements of unionism describe Alliance as "no friend of unionism", yet those same critics can't seem to explain why Alliance does so well in what would once have been regarded as reasonably safe unionist areas. Two immediate reasons seem obvious: increasing numbers of pro-Union, as opposed to unionist, voters don't regard Alliance as a threat to their identity; and they also believe that Alliance policy on some key social/moral/equality issues better reflects their own stance than the "place apart" policy of unionist parties. So, maybe the unionist parties need to reflect on the difference between someone who describes themselves as pro-Union and someone who describes themselves as a unionist. It used to be thought that you couldn't really be pro-Union if you weren't voting for a unionist party. But if that is true, then how does unionism reach out to people who might now be voting for parties which don't define themselves as unionist (but who aren't pro-Irish unity)? More importantly, how do unionist parties respond to the societal changes happening all around them? In my case, I describe myself as a pan-UK unionist: if something is legal in England, Scotland and Wales (and I'm talking about issues like same-sex-marriage and abortion law reform), it must be legal in Northern Ireland. If it isn't, because unionists stop it, then we are undermining the very equality of citizenship that should be at the heart of the Union and the constituent parts. That is what my friend means when he chooses pro-Union over unionist. It seems to be how increasing numbers of unionists are seeing themselves. It's probably how many young people from a once typically unionist background see themselves. The list of sobering facts I set out at the start will continue to lengthen if the unionist parties don't embark on an examination of how they are seen and how they want to be seen. A border poll - which will happen if that list lengthens - won't just be won by a unionist vote. It requires the entire pro-Union community to support the UK link. The fact that a review into the care of deceased patients of Belfast-based neurologist Dr Michael Watt announced a year ago has not even got off the ground follows an often repeated pattern The fact that a review into the care of deceased patients of Belfast-based neurologist Dr Michael Watt announced a year ago has not even got off the ground follows an often repeated pattern. It seems that every inquiry - not necessarily confined to health issues - take an inordinate amount of time either to be established, begin its work or report. Inquests into deaths during the Troubles have yet to be held, in some circumstances decades after the killing of the victims, and criminal trials take lengthy periods to get to court. In this case work is still ongoing to establish the terms of reference of the review and the members of the team to carry it out. Quite why such fundamental preparatory work should not have been undertaken already is puzzling. The son of a woman who died in 2002 said he was told in June last year that the work of the review team would begin in September last but obviously that deadline has long passed. Since then an expected date for the review to begin has been shrouded in mystery. The Department of Health, when contacted by this newspaper, said it could not comment on the matter. Considering that it was the Department who commissioned the review, that is unacceptable. Some 3,500 patients of Dr Watt have been recalled following an independent review of patient notes and an independent review by the Royal College of Physicians. It is entirely proper that any inquiry into patients, including those who have died, should be as thorough as possible and, as the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health Richard Pengelly said, that measures are taken to ensure public confidence in the safety of neurology services now and in the future. The best way of doing that surely is to ensure that the RQIA begins its work as soon as possible and that all impediments to its inquiry are removed equally quickly. What no one wants is for the issue to drag on unnecessarily and end up taking 14 years like the hyponatraemia inquiry into the deaths of five children in Northern Ireland hospitals. Now that talks between the political parties aimed at restoring devolution have begun - albeit with little public optimism - it is exactly this sort of problem that demands the presence of a Health Minister who could insist on speedier action and a Health Committee to keep the pressure on. Despite the remarkable surge in the vote for the Alliance Party - not just in Belfast, but their migration west of the Bann - the same old political duopoly gloomily emerged triumphant out of the mists of the election results last weekend. The re-emergence of the dreary steeples of Fermanagh and Tyrone reassured the respective leaderships of Sinn Fein and the Democratic Unionist Party that they still held in thrall their respective, captive electorates; the sectarian juggernauts, that, through their continued stand-off, have sucked the life out of politics over the past two-and-a-half years, leading to, among other things, unprecedented hospital waiting lists, stalled public works, the continued delay in the establishment of legacy institutions and deprivation of the victims of institutional abuse of their rightful compensation. But, sure, it doesn't matter a toss about those pressing issues, so long as people are reassured that the other crowd won't take over and that our own community's rights will be strongly protected. Just a week after the inspirational homily by Fr Martin Magill at the murdered journalist Lyra McKee's funeral, the electorate have missed the opportunity to send a powerful message to Sinn Fein and the DUP that things cannot continue as they were. The hope surrounding the tragedy of Lyra's murder sadly seems to have evaporated into the grim realities of sectarian triumphalism. If enough people had voted last Thursday to dent the arrogance of these two parties, then the talks about restoring power-sharing might be very different in outcome. We might then have had a new beginning and the creation of a real partnership and an Executive based on goodwill and mutual respect. As things stand post-election, with their respective mandates firmly intact, why would either the DUP or Sinn Fein change their entrenched positions to reach a consensus on bringing back the Assembly? In fact, the opposite is to be expected, as they face into another election for the European Parliament in three weeks' time. Any sign of flexibility, or conciliation, might be interpreted as weakness and fail to drum up support for their respective candidates. Last week's local government election simply reaffirmed the old certainties of a two-bloc system of tribal politics. The DUP finished with eight seats fewer than the last time, in 2014, but nonetheless finished comfortably with 122 seats overall. They even increased their representation in Belfast City Hall by two seats. Their rivals in the Ulster Unionist Party were practically wiped out electorally and reduced to two seats in a City Hall once monopolised by the party. Sinn Fein, winning 23% of the total vote, polled strongly and maintained their position. They returned the same number of councillors as they did in 2014, that is 105. Their only real disappointment was in Derry, where they lost five seats, thus leaving the SDLP as the biggest single party on the council and a clear threat to Sinn Fein's current slender hold on the Foyle parliamentary seat. If our elections confirmed old certainties, the English elections confirmed the current uncertainty and volatility of British politics. A massive 1,330 Conservative councillors lost their seats in last week's polls. But, to add to the uncertainty of the situation, the Labour Party failed to gain from the Conservatives' decline in support and, in fact, lost 84 seats themselves. In addition, Eurosceptics Ukip lost 145 seats. The winners were the Europhile Liberal Democrats and the Greens, together winning almost 900 extra seats. A surge in independents, totalling 661 seats, accounted for the rest of the gains from a badly mauled Conservative Party. This points to huge dissatisfaction with the Conservative Party in government, largely because of its failure to reach a successful deal on Brexit with the European Union. It highlights the fears that the British public have about the negative impact of leaving the European Union. This is further evidence of a change of heart by the British electorate over leaving Europe. The results have caused deep panic within Conservative ranks in parliament and beyond and a frantic call by former leader Iain Duncan Smith for Theresa May to step down immediately. Whatever these results mean (and there are different interpretations), it is still likely that the Labour Party will not rush to make a deal with the Prime Minister before the European elections in the hope that the Tories are slaughtered. The Labour Party believes that it will be able to get a more favourable deal in the aftermath of a successful European election campaign. In all the circumstances, why would Jeremy Corbyn throw Theresa May a lifeline now, when he can further weaken and perhaps irretrievably split her divided party in another nationwide poll and still negotiate a bespoke Labour deal afterwards? POLICE chiefs are preparing a fresh directing terrorism case against the leader of the New IRA gang that murdered journalist Lyra McKee. Thomas Ashe Mellon is the target of a specialist team involving officers from the PSNI's terrorism investigation unit (TIU) and MI5. Their orders are to bring down the 43-year-old dissident who runs the New IRA in Derry city. Mellon, who glared at Lyra's friends as they protested outside offices linked to the gang, has been a paramilitary since his teenage years. But he has led a charmed life - beating a previous directing terrorism rap, walking away from a possessing explosives prosecution, and being investigated but not charged in connection with a robbery at Gransha Hospital. The only major crime the New IRA godfather has been convicted of is writing a note that was smuggled into dissident inmates in Maghaberry Prison. Mellon was jailed for 15 months for having an article of use to terrorists and put on a 10-year MI5 watch-list, which is normally only reserved for members of Islamic State. After getting out of prison in 2015, he assumed control of the New IRA in Derry and was a key figure in establishing the headquarters of its political wing Saoradh on Chamberlain Street in the city, from which it is now being evicted. However, Mellon's reign could soon be at an end with the establishment of a specialist police unit with orders to charge him with directing terrorism. Officers from the TIU are working with their counterparts in MI5 and the military's Special Reconnaissance Regiment in targeting the New IRA boss. Conversations are understood to have been recorded and dissident meetings monitored, with unconfirmed reports that Saoradh's Junior McDaid house has also been bugged. Police say the group known as Saoradh are the political voice of the New IRA. Theyve been the focus of a backlash in Northern Ireland following Lyra McKees death. A clip from our piece on @BBCNews tonight pic.twitter.com/NtLYjiTYzy Emma Vardy (@EmmaVardyTV) May 2, 2019 Security chiefs used a similar strategy to charge prominent republicans Colin Duffy, Alex McCrory and Harry Fitzsimmons with directing the New IRA's terror campaign. The trio are currently on trial before a non-jury court denying the charge. "Mellon was high on the terrorism investigation unit's radar, but he became a priority target after the murder of Lyra McKee," a security insider told Sunday Life. "There were already covert operations in place against his group and these have intensified. "Cases like this take time. They involve many hours of monitoring and recording, often with little end result, but pieced together they do create enough evidence for arrests." Security sources say lessons have been learned since the last time Mellon was charged with directing terrorism and found not guilty by a judge. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close The coffin of journalist Lyra McKee is taken out of the church after her funeral at St Anne's Cathedral on April 24, 2019 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Getty Images Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Prime Minister Theresa May pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee Irish Prime minister Leo Varadkar (R) and Prime Minister Theresa May (C) leave St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24, 2019, after attending the funeral service of journalist Lyra McKee (Photo by Paul Faith / AFP/Getty Images) AFP/Getty Images Irish President Michael D Higgins consoles Sara Canning, partner of the murdered journalist Lyra McKee as her funeral takes place at St. Anne's Cathedral (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images Funeral and service of thanksgiving for journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn(centre) and Irish President Michael D Higgins(right) pictured at and at the funeral. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye Mourners and friends pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Mourners react as the coffin of journalist Lyra McKee, who was killed by a dissident republican paramilitary in Northern Ireland on April 18, is placed into a hearse following her funeral at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24, 2019. - Lyra McKee, 29, who chronicled the troubled history of Northern Ireland, was shot in the head on April 18, 2019, as rioters clashed with police in Londonderry, the second city of the British province. (Photo by Paul Faith / AFP)PAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Funeral and service of thanksgiving for journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Mourners and friends pictured at the funeral. Picture by Jonathan Porter/PressEye DUP leader Arlene Foster at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee Mourners listen to the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee outside St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday April 24, 2019. Miss McKee, 29, died as a result of injuries sustained when she was shot on the Creggan estate on April 18. See PA story FUNERAL McKee. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire PA Mourners gesture as pallbearers carry the coffin of journalist Lyra McKee (29), who was killed by a dissident republican paramilitary in Northern Ireland on April 18, during the funeral service at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24, 2019. AFP/Getty Images The funeral of Journalist Lyra McKee takes place at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24th 2019 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph The funeral of Journalist Lyra McKee takes place at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24th 2019 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Mourners gather outside of St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24, 2019, during the funeral service of journalist Lyra McKee who was killed by a dissident republican paramilitary in Northern Ireland on April 18. - Lyra McKee, 29, who chronicled the troubled history of Northern Ireland, was shot in the head on April 18, 2019, as rioters clashed with police in Londonderry, the second city of the British province. (Photo by Paul Faith / AFP)PAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Mourners gesture as pallbearers carry the coffin of journalist Lyra McKee (29), who was killed by a dissident republican paramilitary in Northern Ireland on April 18, during the funeral service at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24, 2019. - Lyra McKee, 29, who chronicled the troubled history of Northern Ireland, was shot in the head on April 18, 2019, as rioters clashed with police in Londonderry, the second city of the British province. (Photo by Paul Faith / AFP)PAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images The coffin is carried into the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA The coffin is carried into the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday April 24, 2019. Miss McKee, 29, died as a result of injuries sustained when she was shot on the Creggan estate on April 18. See PA story FUNERAL McKee. Photo credit should read: Liam McBurney/PA Wire PA General view of the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneOs Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Picture Matt Mackey / Press Eye. Matt Mackey / Presseye.com Prime Minister Theresa May paying her condolences to the family of Lyra McKee Mourners listen to the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee outside St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA Taoiseach Leo Varadkar , Prime Mnister Theresa May and President Michael D Higgins before the funeral service for murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA Mourners arrive for the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA Mourners embrace ahead of the funeral of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Prime Minister Theresa May and Irish President Michael D Higgins pictured at he funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Prime Minister Theresa May pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St Annes Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. DUP leader Arlene Foster and Sinn Fein leader Mary-Lou McDonald at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. President Michael D Higgins before the funeral service for murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA A mourner arrives carrying a wreath for the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA DUP leader Arlene Foster with Sin Fein's Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O'Neill before the funeral service for murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA PSNI Chief Constable George Hamilton. The funeral of Journalist Lyra McKee takes place at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24th 2019 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald arrives for the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA Leo Varadkar arrives for the funeral service of journalist Lyra McKee at St Annes Cathedral on April 24, 2019 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Getty Images BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND - APRIL 24: The congregation arrive for the funeral service of journalist Lyra McKee at St Annes Cathedral on April 24, 2019 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Journalist and campaigner for LGBT rights, Lyra McKee, 29, was shot dead last Thursday while observing the rioting in Londonderry. Her family gave a statement in which they said her "openness and her desire to bring people together made her totally apolitical". The New IRA have admitted responsibility for her killing. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images Press Eye Northern Ireland Wednesday 24th April 2019 Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn and Sinn Fein leader Mary-Lou McDonald pictured at he funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. The hearse carrying the body of murdered journalist Lyra McKee arrives at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PA Sinn Fein leader Michelle and Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Press Eye Northern Ireland Wednesday 24th April 2019 Sinn Fein leader Michelle and Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald before the funeral service for murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday April 24, 2019. Miss McKee, 29, died as a result of injuries sustained when she was shot on the Creggan estate on April 18. See PA story FUNERAL McKee. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA President Michael D Higgins before the funeral service for murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Wednesday April 24, 2019. Miss McKee, 29, died as a result of injuries sustained when she was shot on the Creggan estate on April 18. See PA story FUNERAL McKee. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Press Eye Northern Ireland Wednesday 24th April 2019 Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St Annes Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Press Eye Northern Ireland Wednesday 24th April 2019 Simon Coveney TD at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Press Eye Northern Ireland Wednesday 24th April 2019 SDLP leader Colum Eastwood at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Press Eye Northern Ireland Wednesday 24th April 2019 Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Mike Nesbitt pictured at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. Michelle O'Neill, Vice President of Sinn Fein arrives for the funeral service of journalist Lyra McKee at St Annes Cathedral on April 24, 2019 in Belfast Getty Images Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald arrives for the funeral service of murdered journalist Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast. Liam McBurney/PA Wire PA Naomi Long Alliance Party Leader at the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. General view of the funeral and service of thanksgiving for the life of journalist Lyra McKee at St AnneAos Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast. Lyra McKee was murdered in Creggan in Derry on Thursday 18th April. Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. The funeral of Journalist Lyra McKee takes place at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24th 2019 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph Mourners begin to gather for the funeral of Lyra McKee at St Anne's Cathedral in Belfast on April 24th 2019 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph) Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The coffin of journalist Lyra McKee is taken out of the church after her funeral at St Anne's Cathedral on April 24, 2019 in Belfast, Northern Ireland. "Admittedly the evidence against him then was weak," added the insider. "It was more a case of hitting him with a holding charge and getting him off the streets so he couldn't cause any trouble. "The test for prosecution this time round will be much stricter, it will take a lot more than his handwriting on a scrap of paper." Mellon - a taxi driver by day with an address on Rathmore Road - is extremely security conscious, and having served a previous terror sentence, rarely gets his hands dirty. The New IRA riot in the Creggan area last month, which was put on for cameras filming there and led to the killing of Lyra McKee, took place on his orders. Mellon was careful enough to not get involved, telling a veteran dissident to organise the violence. He did, however, sanction shots being fired at police, with one of the bullets hitting Ms McKee who was standing beside a PSNI vehicle on Fanad Drive. Mellon is also aware that violent republican groups in Derry have been heavily infiltrated by informants, with several members of the New IRA jailed following police intelligence-led operations. Because of this, he keeps a tight circle of friends, with his closest confidants being veteran dissident Fergal Melaugh, who is in his 60s, and Kieran McCool (51), named in court as being a "key member" of a dissident republican gang. Both men stood menacingly with Mellon outside Junior McDaid House when Ms McKee's friends protested by putting red handprints on its wall to represent the murdered writer's blood. Also standing with arms folded outside the building was tattooed dissident Gary Hayden. The 46-year-old was among 11 New IRA supporters, including Mellon, convicted last week of taking part in an illegal Easter 2018 parade through the Creggan. They were videoed by police wearing berets, sunglasses and combat fatigues with scarves covering their mouths while marching in the estate. The demonstration led to trouble, with teenage rioters hurling petrol bombs at PSNI vehicles. Mellon and Hayden were fined 750 each, as was Saoradh spokesman Joe Barr (30) and convicted dissident bomber Jason Ceulemans (47), who was caught in 2012 with a rocket launcher in a car. Ceulemans was jailed for five years for possessing explosives, and having been released in 2017, is on licence until 2022. He remains a free man despite being convicted last week of taking part in an illegal parade in support of the New IRA. Also convicted of taking part in the march was William Martin McDonnell (32), who was caught by prison staff smuggling New IRA leader Thomas Mellon's handwritten terror note into dissident inmates at Maghaberry jail. He was caged for a year. Ex-Provo Christy O'Kane (45) was also fined 750 for his role in the Creggan terror display. In 2008, he was sentenced to 10 years after walking into a PSNI station and confessing to involvement in five IRA shootings and bombings that took place between 1993 and 1994. Because the offences took place before the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, O'Kane had to serve just two years behind bars. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry welcomed their first child, a son weighing 7 pounds, 3 ounces, on Monday. The Duchess went into labour in the early hours of this morning. The Duke of Sussex was by Her Royal Highnesses side. An announcement will be made soon, a statement from Buckingham Palace announced Monday morning. Shortly after, they shared on Instagram that the couple had welcomed a baby boy. We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses son weighs 7lbs. 3oz, the announcement noted. The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives. The newest addition to the Windsor family is a first cousin of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridges children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and a fourth grandchild for the Prince of Wales. He is the Queens eighth great-grandchild, and will be seventh in line to the throne. The babys sex was a surprise for the delighted couple, who chose not to find out what they were having. They have not yet finalized a name. The prince and former Suits actress announced that they were expecting their first child in October, about five months after the royal wedding on May 19. The two previously announced that their birth plan would be much different from The Duke and Duchess of Cambridges, as they wanted the event to be more private. Its been the most amazing experience I could ever possibly imagine, the Duke of Sussex said while appearing for cameras Monday morning. How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension, but were both absolutely thrilled. Winter has come, and America has been excidely watching the eighth and final season of HBOs hit series Game of Thrones. What most of those watching dont always notice, though, is how the series also inserts a huge amount of Christian imagery and references. Its no coincidence that the show returned to TV on Palm Sunday this year, the beginning of Holy Week for Christians. For some, these Christian themes also give clues into how the series will end. The most obvious reference is Jon Snow paralleling Jesus Christ. He owns a pet Dire Wolf named Ghost, which some think actually refers to the Holy Ghost. Furthermore, the Winterfell Bastard has a pretty striking resemblance to Jesus. Like Jesus, Snow was born under mysterious circumstances. He was later betryed by his friend Olly, much like Jesus was betrayed by Judas. Viewers may have even noticed the wooden cross bearing the word traitor it at the site where Jon is stabbed in Season 5. Both were executed for sharing and teaching the idea that we are to always love one another, and both came back from the dead just a few days after their death to fulfill a prophecy. Due to this, many GOT fans think that John will be the savior of the Seven Kingdoms and ultimately end up on the Iron Throne. Beric Dondarrion, played by Richard Dormer, is a character that has lived many times. Thoros of Myr resurrected him six times, thanks to some help from the Lord of Light, Rhllor. Dondarrion finally meets his end in episode 3 of season 8, when he sacrifices himself to save Arya from a group of wights. When I watched it I was struck by how almost religious it was, Richard Dormer told HuffPost of his characters final moment. HuffPost wrote in an article: He said it was visually influenced by Christs death on the cross. Beric is stabbed multiple times before making his way to safety, only to die, for the seventh time, in Aryas arms a spiritual number, Dormer noted. Lastly, many see Jamie Lanisters redemption story as an obvious Christian theme. Lanister is seen at the beginning of the show as being evil and cunning, but that all begins to change. In Season 3, Jamie loses his hand and confesses his sins to Brienne of Tarth. Through the show he begins to grow, and in season 7 he is pushed into the water to save him from being blazed by a dragon. Jamie emerges, at the beginning of the next episode, having been baptized anew and gasping for life. The Christian themes are floating throughout the series, and if you look closely enough they may be giving you clues into how the show will end. Exodus means going out in Latin. The term is associated with the Hebrew people being led out of Egypt by God. Their leader, Moses, heard Gods words and in response he told the Israelites. The Exodus ends with Gods laws and his instructions on how to build the Ark. The question presented by historians and theologians is whether or not there is substantial proof the Exodus took place? Biblical scholars and archaeologists have continued to argue for decades regarding the elements of Israels Exodus from Egypt many of them agree that the Exodus did, in fact, occur in some form. Another big question constantly debated is the time Exodus period. The majority of people narrow it down into two divisions either a 15th-century B.C.E or 13th-century B.C.E. date. As with any investigation, historians, theologians and archaeologists have (and continue) to search for Egyptian texts, artifacts and other evidence that the Exodus took place. One of the biggest pieces of evidence relates to locales. There are three specific place names recorded in the Bible. The memory of the biblical authors for these correlations predate Egypts third intermediate period. All in all, this supports a 13th-century Exodus during the Ramesside Period because it is only during this period that the places names Pi-Ramesse, Pi-Atum, and Pa-Tjuf (Red Sea) are all simultaneously in use. In the 1930s, archaeologists at the University of Chicago excavated the mortuary Temple of Aya and Horemheb the last two pharaohs of Egypts 18th dynasty in western Thebes. The temple is said to be built by Aya in the 14th century B.C.E., but Horemheb expanded the temple when he was named pharaoh. During the excavations, the University of Chicago uncovered a house and part of another house belonging to the workers who were given the task of demolishing the temple. The plan of the house is the same of the Israelite dwellings during the Iron Age. However, unlike the Israelite models that were usually built of stone, the Theban house was made of wattle and daub which is sticks and twigs covered with mud and/or clay. The similarities between the two have caused speculation because the builds of the Theban house were either proto-Israelites or a group closely related to the Israelites. The Onomasticon Amenope is a list of categorized words from Egypts Third Intermediate Period, and another piece of evidence. This is written in hieratic and includes the Semitic place named b-r-k-t and this refers to the Lakes of Pithom. Throughout these writings, evidence of a history of enslavement is mentioned. This could potentially point to truth of the Exodus. However, like any investigation there are a number of varying elements that prove and shut down the existence of the Exodus. The Bible says that after Moses accepted his mission to get the Israelites out of Egypt, he confronted the pharaoh. But the pharaoh refused to let his people go until God unleashed a series of unnatural disasters known as the 10 plagues Jews now commemorate this event and the Exodus on Passover. Religious historians estimate the Israelite population in Egypt at the time was around 2 3 million people, but the biblical exodus route into the Sinai Desert has no trace other than what the Bible says. The story of Exodus is anticipated in many stories in the book of Genesis. In Genesis 12-14, there was a famine in the land and Abram went down into Egypt to stay there. Pharaoh took Sarai, threatening the women and the promised seed. Ultimately, Pharaoh was deceived by the woman, Sarai. God then plagued Pharaoh on account of her. Gods deliverances of the patriarchs are realistic filled promises of the greater works that he will accomplish for their descendants. However, again, does no physical evidence truly mean there never was an Exodus? The reality is there are a lot of things in life we cant prove; however, we want to believe in them, so we base a lot of our ideals on hope. Exodus themes are prominent throughout the ministry of Christ, especially in association with his death and resurrection. Christ is the Passover Lamb, the first-born son, the prophet like Moses. Once society appreciates the presence of an Exodus pattern, the ideal picture can be filled out. The Exodus reveals the unity of scripture and of the work of redemption. We want to believe in the existence of the Exodus because it helps us bring forth a better understanding of where we stand in relation to Gods purposes. We are supposed to perceive the ways in which the story of Israel resonates with our own story we must visualize ourselves as bound together in the greater drama of Gods redemption and act accordingly. There is no prosperity without suffering. The Exodus proves this and is unconventionally the driver of the hope we all cling to. Society wants to believe that the Lord will forgive their sins. Society wants to believe their suffering has a purpose. Because if it all doesnt relate, then what is the purpose of life? Therefore, the question of the Exodus will most likely be an ongoing investigation with no real answers. Once someone uncovers a new fact or fictitious element, another person will find a way to turn the discussion in another direction. The reality is the people that want to believe in the proof uncovered, will forever believe in the Exodus and those who do not want to believe in the uncovering, will forever not believe in the Exodus existence. Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak (right) speaks to an unidentified supporter during a tea break at Kuala Lumpur High Court, May 7, 2019. Malaysias government is seeking to legalize last years seizure by authorities of 720 million ringgit (U.S. $173 million) in cash and valuable items during raids linked to ex-Prime Minister Najib Razak, as part of their probe into the 1MBD corruption scandal, police said Wednesday. Prosecutors have filed a court motion for a ruling to allow the government to legally seize the cash, real-estate and items such as luxury handbags that were allegedly obtained with money stolen from the sovereign wealth fund, a senior police officer told BenarNews. The Attorney-Generals Chamber filed a legal notice at the Kuala Lumpur High Court giving it permission to confiscate hundreds of items, said Khalil Azlan Chik, chief of the polices Anti-Money Laundering division. Based on reports compiled by the police, the Attorney-Generals Chamber had filed a motion and supporting affidavits to the court on Tuesday, Khalil told BenarNews. The total value of the items is around 720 million ringgit. The items, including suitcases full of cash and boxes of high-priced items, were carted off by police during raids last year at Kuala Lumpur area residences and addresses associated with the former prime minister and his wife, Rosmah Mansor. State-run news service Bernama said the notice named Najib as the first respondent, followed by Rosmah, stepson Riza Shahriz Abdul Aziz, his children with Rosmah, and other individuals. Khalil said the court filing came as a result of the June 2018 raids at luxury condominiums and offices, during which authorities seized luxury goods that were initially estimated by authorities to be worth up to U.S. $273 million. First, the assets were frozen, then, seized, so now is the forfeiture process through the court, Khalil said. It means that if the court accepts our motion, all the belongings will legally no longer belong to Najib and Rosmah. The police raids were part of a probe into the disappearance of billions of dollars from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), a state investment fund started by Najib in 2009 ostensibly to promote economic growth. U.S. prosecutors are seeking to recover a total of $1.7 billion in assets allegedly siphoned off by Najib and his associates from the sovereign wealth fund. Among the valuables hauled off by police during the raids were 12,000 pieces of jewelry, 117 million ringgit (U.S. $29 million) in cash in different currencies, luxury handbags and a large number of designer Swiss-made watches. Authorities did not find a rare 22-carat pink diamond worth $27.3 million that, U.S. investigators claim, was bought with funds stolen from 1MDB. Tuesdays court filing came to light after a source within the police department tipped-off The Edge Markets, a local business-focused publication. Najib, who is facing 42 criminal charges related to the 1MDB looting, berated the court filing Wednesday, saying the government was losing legal grounds to hold the items in its custody. The terms of the seizure is set to expire in 10 days on May 18, whereby after that date, according to the law, all items need to be returned if the authorities failed to prove that it was purchased using illegally sourced funds and did not pursue a charge regarding the possession of those items, Najib said in a Facebook post. Najib has pleaded not guilty to some of the criminal charges. If found guilty on all, he could be sentenced to decades in prison and given fines up to millions of dollars. Lawyer promises court challenge Najibs lawyer, Shafee Abdullah, vowed to challenge the governments forfeiture move. I dont think they (the government) can do that. I think they are rushing on everything, he told reporters. The court filings took place on the same day authorities announced that Washington had started returning to Malaysia almost U.S. $200 million recovered from forfeitures and seizures of assets linked to 1MDB. The government was within its right to seek the forfeiture of seized assets under the Anti -Money Laundering, Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Act 2001, legal expert Amir Faliq told BenarNews. The prosecution has to satisfy the court that all the seized properties are proceeds of unlawful activities, he said. If the court is satisfied then only the seized properties will be ordered to be forfeited. Noah Lee in Kuala Lumpur contributed to this report. Mohamad Fuzi Harun (left) shakes hands with Abdul Hamid Bador (right), his successor as Malaysias police chief, as Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin looks on during a turnover ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, May 3, 2019. Mohamad Fuzi Harun retired as Malaysias police chief last week after being criticized for failing to act promptly over a corruption scandal linked to ex-premier Najib Razak, while a senior policeman who had been ousted after speaking out against the fiasco succeeded him. Abdul Hamid Bador, the 61-year-old son of a constable is the new chief of the Royal Malaysia Police, a federal-level force composed of 130,000 officers. He was hired as the nations top policeman on a special two-year contract, although he had surpassed the mandatory retirement age of 60. I am honored to be given the trust to lead the force, Abdul Hamid said after Fuzi handed him the reins of the police department on Friday, according to Malaysias Star newspaper. Fuzi praised his successor during the ceremony, saying He is the right man for the job. I am confident that he will be able to carry on the legacy of excellence and elevate the police force even further, Fuzi said, according to the Star. Abdul Hamid was reinstated on the national force as deputy chief by Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad soon after the Pakatan Harapan coalition ousted Najibs government in the May 2018 general election. Abdul Hamid had retired four years ago after Najibs government transferred him out of the force. That move came after he spoke out against the scandal tied to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), a state fund founded by Najib in 2009. When he was deputy chief of the polices Special Branch, Abdul Hamid openly criticized Najibs administration, alleging that the prime minister declined to follow his departments advice about 1MDB. Fuzi, who turned 60 on May 4, succeeded Khalid Abu Bakar as Inspector General of Police (IGP) in September 2017. But rumors about Fuzis forthcoming removal from the top police post began to circulate several weeks after he helped the new Pakatan government in its transition to power. On May 10, 2018 a day after the election Fuzi convened a news conference in Kuala Lumpur at which he urged all parties to cooperate for a smooth transition between governments. The police chief, the military commander, and the chief secretary had made plans to seek an audience with Malaysias king on the matter soon to avoid any unrest following to the electoral defeat of the Barisan Nasional coalition. During the meeting, we agreed that the process should be done as soon as possible, Fuzi told reporters. We will seek an audience with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V [the king] as soon as possible to brief him on the transition of powers, Fuzi said then. But two months later, rumors swirled that Fuzi would be removed as police chief due to his perceived failure to act swiftly when the 1MDB scandal first became public in July 2015 while he was chief of the special branch, the intelligence arm of the Royal Malaysia Police. A highly placed source told BenarNews the reason for efforts at that time to remove Fuzi, who officially retired on Friday. Dereliction of duty, a failure to investigate criminal action on 1MDB, the source said. Fuzi also came under scrutiny over contradictory comments he had made about an associate of Najib: Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho. Better known as Jho Low, the businessman is now a fugitive from the law and a major figure in international investigations into the 1MDB scandal, from which billions of dollars were allegedly embezzled. Jho Low is not part of 1MDB and has never worked for the company. Every business transaction was made by the board of directors, Fuzi was quoted as saying in March 2018, two months before the general election, according to the Malay-language daily Berita Harian. However, Fuzi said something different after Pakatan Harapan came to power. In a report published by The Star, Fuzi said his men had been tracking Jho Low and were cooperating with various counterparts abroad, including from China. Our discussions with our counterparts are ongoing and a few officers have been tasked for the engagement. I know many people said he (Jho Low) is in China but it is not definitive, The Star quoted him as saying. Fuzi did not immediately respond to a request for comment from BenarNews. Abdul Hamid: I must set a good example On May 1, two days before Fuzis retirement, Mahathir announced that Fuzi would be replaced by Abdul Hamid. Despite his early career in general policing duties, Abdul Hamid was virtually unknown in the public eye. But in 2014, his name emerged as being among the main negotiators in Lahad Datu, when a band of fighters from nearby Sulu, Philippines launched an incursion into the eastern Malaysia state of Sabah. Abdul Hamid was also awarded the Bhayankara Nararya Star, the highest award by the Indonesian government, after helping authorities in the neighboring country cripple cells associated with Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and pro-Islamic State (IS) militants. With 40 years of experience in the police force, Abdul Hamid has a huge task at hand: to get his officers to toe the line and clean up any abuse of power and corruption within the force. One must realize that a thousand bad cops do not represent a hundred thousand good ones out there, Abdul Hamid told the Sun newspaper. These fine police personnel have long been marginalized and I assure them that under my watch, only the good ones will be counted, he was quoted as saying on Sunday. But first, I must set a good example, he said. Gary Alejano, an opposition member of the Philippine House of Representatives who is running for senator, gestures during a rally in Manila, Feb. 23, 2019. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte linked key opposition politicians Wednesday to a purported plot to discredit his three-year-old administration, ramping up attacks against his opponents ahead of next weeks mid-term elections. Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said Duterte received information that members of the Liberal Party as well as the Magdalo group, which includes former junior military officers involved in a failed mutiny in 2003, were allegedly conspiring with certain media organizations to discredit the government. The president has received intelligence information that has been validated and appears to show that there is deliberate attempt to discredit this administration, as well as to boost the candidacies of the opposition, senatorial candidates, Panelo said in a hastily-called news conference. And it appears that there are certain groups who are working together to achieve this goal, he said. Some personalities identified as advocates or very active in social media, dishing out anti-Duterte statements and sentiments and validated to be allied with the Liberal Party. The Liberal Party was the political party of former President Benigno Aquino, who was in office from 2010 to 2016. The Magdalo group, which was allegedly behind a failed coup plot about 16 years ago, is led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes, one of the staunchest critics of Dutertes drug war that has killed thousands. Panelos statement came a week after he told reporters that the government had no substantial evidence about an alleged plot to oust Duterte, and would only file lawsuits against the alleged conspirators once an actual crime was committed. Panelo had earlier linked online news sites Rappler and Vera Files, as well as the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism in the alleged plot to discredit the chief executive. The three media organizations, which had published stories critical of Duterte and his family, had debunked the allegations. Philippine opposition politician Neri Colmenares waves to supporters after filing senate candidacy papers in Manila, Feb. 15, 2019. [Luis Liwanag/BenarNews] Among those named by Panelo on Wednesday were Neri Colmenares, a former lawmaker and a member of the left-leaning National Union of Peoples Lawyers, his colleague Carlos Zarate, as well as Gary Alejano, a member of the House of Representatives who was a former Marine captain and a close ally of Trillanes. Panelo admitted that the government did not have substantial evidence as of yet, but said Dutertes office had passed the information to the justice department, which would then study and decide whether a case can be filed. He denied that the government was engaged in a crackdown to silence legitimate dissent in the Philippines, one Asias most freewheeling democracies. If what they are doing is black propaganda, it means it's libelous. The moment the police and other law enforcement agencies have sufficient evidence, cases will be filed against all of them, Panelo said. This government cannot crack down on those who are practicing the freedom of expression, he said. Panelos statement followed recent controversy on social media after a series of independently produced videos came out with allegations that Duterte and his associates were, ironically, involved in drug trafficking. The videos surfaced after a former police officer had accused Duterte of employing a Chinese adviser who allegedly had ties to Chinese drug traffickers. Duterte has denied the accusation. Long history Alejano on Wednesday charged that Panelos release of unverified information was not only irresponsible but libelous. He denied having a hand in the release of the videos. The presidential palace has a long history of releasing unvalidated information to the public, Alejano told reporters. They even backtrack or change tune in the middle of the issue, he said. This is an abuse of power without being held liable for the consequences of their irresponsible actions and incompetence. He noted that the allegations came out days before the polls, and was clearly an attempt to destroy the image of the opposition. Duterte has previously issued scandalous remarks that his spokesman had described as hyperbole. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte answers questions during a news conference in the southern city of Davao, Sept.8, 2018. [Reuters] I challenge him to present evidence Ellen Tordesillas, who heads the investigative website Vera Files, slammed Panelo and denied allegations of involvement in any anti-Duterte plot. Vera Files has published reports that fact-checked false claims made by Duterte and his officials. I deny allegations by Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo linking me to any imagined destabilization efforts against the administration. I challenge him to present evidence, not just silly diagrams, Tordesillas told reporters. The National Union of Journalist in the Philippines on Wednesday slammed Panelos statements as a piece of unadulterated crap. At best, this is yet another badly concocted fiction meant to scare their perceived enemies but which only ends up making them look ridiculous, the group said. Jeoffrey Maitem in Cotabato City contributed to this report. Thailands Election Commission (EC) announced official results Tuesday of 350 parliamentary seats that were directly elected in March polls, but said 150 so-called party-list seats would be given after the Constitutional Court ruled on a formula used to calculate them. The opposition won the largest number of seats by a comfortable margin but lost a seat after a candidate was disqualified, according to the official results. These results were only one seat different from unofficial results tallied by the commission after the March 24 general election, the first polls held since a military government came to power through a coup five years earlier. Ittiporn Boonprakong (EC chief), signed to endorse the results of 349 constituency MPs except for one in Chiang Mai, which will have a reelection. Results will be announced in the Royal Gazette, EC Deputy Secretary-General Sawang Boonmee told reporters on Tuesday. The reelection for the Chiang Mai seat is scheduled for May 26. Despite the announcement, results remain murky two days before the law required that the elected and party-list MPs must be announced by Thursday. The formula used to apportion the party-list seats among contending parties remained up in the air, pending a court ruling. The Constitution Court will consider a judgment starting at 9 a.m. Wednesday, the court said in a message to the media after accepting the Ombudsman Offices request on May 2. The EC, meanwhile, said it would convene at 10 a.m. Wednesday one hour after the court to discuss the matter. The Constitutional Court had previously rejected an EC request to rule on whether the party-list formula was in line with Thai law, but the Ombudsmans Office, a theoretically independent body of the Thai government, subsequently called on the court to rule on the matter. The request doesnt meet criteria to seek Constitutional Courts judgment, it said on April 24, arguing there was no proof that the EC had performed its duty to calculate the party list MPs. The EC said it sought the courts judgment to determine if the formula, which critics have said favors smaller parties, was valid. The EC devised a mathematical formula that credits parties for total votes received. To make sure the formula is right and is constitutional, the EC said in a media statement at the time. There is one formula for party-list MPs, which was designed by the constitutional drafting committee. There will be 27 parties gaining party-list MPs, Charungwit Poomma, the ECs secretary-general told the Thai Rath newspaper on April 29. Senate Meanwhile, 15 cabinet members have resigned in what observers said could be a move to allow the junta government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha to hand-pick them for the 250-seat senate. The 250 senators, along with the 350 elected and 150 party list members of the lower house of parliament will select the next prime minister, who needs the support of 376 members (one more than half of the 750 legislators) to form the government. Observers have pointed out that because they are appointed, the senate members likely will support Prayuth, giving him a head start to reaching 376. Analysts said the 250 senators were to be announced within three days after the MPs were announced. Concerns about party list The opposition Pheu Thai Party, which won the most seats in the elections contested portion, challenged the EC, claiming the formula was biased toward the pro-junta Palang Pracharat Party. Shortly after the March 24 vote, reports surfaced that Palang Pracharat Party, which won 39 fewer seats than the Pheu Thai Party, could make up much of the difference through the party-list selections. It is unconstitutional, no matter what. It favors a certain party and let it pull together those MPs to form a government, Tossaporn Serirak of the Pheu Thai Party told reporters in early April. Titipol Phakdeewanich, the dean of the faculty of political science at Ubon Ratchathani University, said the EC needed to show no bias. The EC may have been pressured but as an independent body, it must stay neutral and hold up integrity and choose to support democracy, Titipol told BenarNews in a phone interview on Tuesday. Parties that gain a party-list MP should have at least 71,000 popular votes. The formula favors Palang Pracharat Party, Titipol said. There is a tendency that smaller parties would join Palang Pracharat, and Prayuth will remain prime minister. Moncks Corner, SC (29461) Today Abundant sunshine. High 72F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight A few clouds from time to time. Low 57F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. Print edition not available for Day Pass option. William Hill launches in Sweden by Luke Andrews, 8 May 2019 British operator William Hill has launched into the Swedish market under its new www.WilliamHill.se domain. The operator has rebranded its Redbet domain for its first locally licensed Swedish venture since 2011. William Hill announced back in 2018 that it would launch a site in Sweden once the newly regulated market was open. This announcement came after its acquisition of MRG Group, which gave Hills ownership over Mr Green and Redbet. The launch comes sooner than expected. By rebranding the Redbet domain (Redbet.se), Hills has been able to quickly launch in Sweden since the takeover. The sportsbook is powered by Kambi and customised for the Swedish market and consumers. Speaking about the move, Patrick Jonker, managing director at William Hill, said: This is an important milestone in William Hills International journey. Through fantastic teamwork between our teams in Malta, UK and Sweden we have released William Hills first new locally licensed offering since 2011. Following this initial launch, we look forward to continue improving the product through additional features and functionalities over the coming months. Patrick Jonker, William Hill managing director The Swedish market has proved a success since its launch in January. However, marketing and advertising from the gambling industry has come under increasingly heavy pressure. Currently, the government is weighing up a complete ban on online casino advertising in Sweden. At the very least, measures towards how gambling ads can be limited in terms of scope and content are being debated, and the government has promised further advertising restrictions by 1 October 2020. This is despite efforts from the industry to self-regulate. In March, The Swedish Gambling Association (SPER) and the Swedish Trade Association for Online Gambling (BOS) released a joint proposal for new marketing and advertising codes. These were not received too warmly from policy makers, and government continues to mull over how much or how little to restrict gambling operators advertising their products in Sweden. By Bob Cunningham 18 While attending Bowling Green State University, John M. Starcher Jr., Esq., quickly learned that his achievements correlated directly to the time and effort he was willing to put in. Today, Starcher, who earned a Bachelor of Science in business administration in 1993, is president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Bon Secours Mercy Health, one of the largest health care systems in the country. He oversees the development of system strategies and operations for 43 Mercy Health and Bon Secours hospitals and more than 1,000 health care facilities across Ohio, Kentucky, New York, Maryland, Virginia, South Carolina and Florida. Bon Secours Mercy Health employs more than 57,000 people, including 2,100 employed providers, and has net operating revenue of more than $8 billion. It's an honor, Starcher said of returning to his alma mater to speak at the 7 p.m. commencement May 17 at the Stroh Center. Those that knew me in college would never have dreamed that I'd be asked to speak let alone offer advice to graduating seniors; that includes most of my fraternity brothers. I had a work hard-play hard mentality, most of which manifested publicly in the latter. Privately, I worked my rear end off, whether it was earning good grades, working my way through school as a night guard, or leading the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Coming back to BGSU brings back a flood of great memories that I wouldn't trade for the world. I'm forever thankful for the education I received, the experiences I gained and the memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. My only hope is that this class of graduating seniors enjoyed the ride as much as I did. Previously, Starcher served as president and CEO of Mercy Health, the largest provider of health care in Ohio. He is also the former president and CEO of Health Management Associates (HMA), an integrated acute-care-delivery system with 71 hospitals across 15 states. He guided HMA through its successful sale to Community Health Systems. It is an honor to have John Starcher Jr. as a commencement speaker to motivate this years graduates as we mark their achievements at Bowling Green State University, BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers said. John is an influential leader in the ever-changing field of health care. As president and CEO of Bon Secours Mercy Health, he has led several innovative collaborative partnerships such as the one between the University and Mercy Health. I cant wait to hear him inspire BGSUs newest alumni as he shares critical keys for career success and in life. Starcher said his business administration degree helped prepare him for his career by providing the fundamentals of business, particularly in finance, accounting and health care administration. Beyond that, merely the tenacity and perseverance it took to successfully complete classes that I could barely comprehend, such as calculus and statistics, he said. Never give up: Always find a way to complete the assignment you've been given to the best of your ability. Ultimately, my time at BGSU showed me that I can achieve anything I put my mind to, as long as I am willing to put in the necessary time and effort. Starcher plans to give graduate candidates advice that is career oriented a practical perspective young adults might not hear that often these days grounded in pragmatism and not ideology, he said. These young adults don't want to listen to a middle age guy preach to them about how to live their lives or what political agenda I prefer, Starcher said. Fundamentally, everything they needed to learn, they learned by the age of 5. For example, the difference between right and wrong, to say please and thank you and to treat everyone with dignity. While their political opinions and underlying character may be mostly formed, many of them will enter the professional workforce for the first time in their life. Having started exactly where they are starting, I think I have something to offer. I like to use stories as memory aids. They serve as repositories of wisdom and advice gleaned from people I respect. Im going to share three stories that I hope will keep these tips in mind as our graduates take on new endeavors: Be your own person/know your mind; be innovative because there is a solution to every problem; and there are no excuses to not succeed if you are willing to take risks and work hard. Before joining HMA, Starcher served as the CEO of three of Mercy Healths four divisions, overseeing more than 20 acute care hospitals, five long-term-care facilities, six home health agencies and dozens of affiliated clinical practices with more than $3 billion in net revenue. He also served as the CEO of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Region, the senior vice president of human resources and corporate associate counsel. Starcher said one of his mentors at BGSU, Dick Sipp, an adjunct professor in health care administration and former associate vice president for student affairs and executive director of the Student Health Center, helped set him on a path for a career in health care. He was the first professional that I remember teaching a class in a field that they actually worked in and had success, Starcher said. He provided case studies in health care that turned out to be remarkably accurate and gave practical advice and feedback routinely. Mr. Sipp recommended me for a fellowship in health care administration at the Medical College of Ohio during my senior year. That fellowship turned into an internship and ultimately, the beginning of my 27-year health care career. Starcher began his health care career in academic medicine, serving six years in leadership roles at the Medical College of Ohio, now the University of Toledo Medical Center. He also has a doctorate of jurisprudence from the University of Toledo. Starcher is licensed to practice law in Ohio and has served as a director on more than 16 boards. He credits active leadership roles during his time at BGSU with not only preparing him for his first job, but also his career. I was president of the Kappa Sigma fraternity for my junior and senior years, Starcher said. That was my first real experience of taking on true leadership of others; of learning how to be accountable to many stakeholders: the young men in the fraternity, the dean of Greek Life, Kappa Sig alumni and the International Fraternity and BGSU. It was fun, a lot of work and incredibly enriching. I certainly didn't have all of the answers coming in, and much of the time it was baptism by fire while I learned on the job. However, it is in seeking out new challenges that we prepare for the next opportunity in our career and our life. Baptism Doesnt Divide But It Does Distinguish To answer the question, Must I be baptized to go to heaven? we must first admit that there are differences of belief within the body of Christ, then we need to define both baptism and the gospel, and, finally, seek biblical case studies to guide us to our answer. To begin, the short answer is: no. Heaven is not dependent upon the Sacraments of Baptism or, for that matter, the Lords Supper. But merely stating this leaves out a great deal of necessary discussion. For God commanded that a sign (His sign of distinction, of the entrance into the Family of God) of washing away of sin be instituted and practiced until the end of the world. So, it is not enough to say, No, you dont have to be baptized. We must give attention to this vital matter. Hopefully, we will find not only clarity but conviction as well. Men and women of good will and strong faith differ about some things revealed in the Bible, and there is quite a difference between disagreeing out of unbelief and disagreeing out of faith. The former is quite different from the latter. The latter, Christians with differing convictions about what the Bible means, must recognize each other as fellow followers of Christ who hold different positions of interpretation and practice. Yet, each looks to the Bible as the unassailable standard of faith and life. While it is a cherished hallmark of Protestant Christianity that every person has freedom of conscience, especially, in the interpretation of Scripture and the freedom to worship as he or she sees best from the Word of God, it is also the teaching of Christ that we should hold such convictions in humility. What did Christ say? ...for whoever is not against us is for us (Mark 9:40). The Apostle Paul summarized this enigma of one Word with diverse opinions, and he challenged the obstinate whose faith was weaponized for ecclesiastical in-fighting and called all of us to mortify putrid pretentiousness: For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known (1 Corinthians 13:12, KJV). Baptism is one of those very important matters that createsI prefer to call themcommunities of conviction. Why Baptism Is a Matter of Priority It is no wonder that baptism is a conviction of faith that is taken as a doctrine of first things. For baptism, like the other sacrament, or sign of Gods salvationthe sacrament of Holy Communion, or, "the Lord's supper"is a commandment of our Lord Jesus Christ. We dont squabble over the color of the carpet (and if we do, shame on us[go with wood or tile]). We dont initiate movements and fellowships over secondary matters. Baptism is of first importance in the life of the Church. Is Baptism Our Testimony or Gods? Both Baptism and Holy Communion are New Covenant signs that continue the Old Covenant signs of circumcision and the Passover meal.1 These two visible expressions of God's salvation are not something we do for God but something God has done for us. The Lord commanded that we remember His salvation through the practicing of these sacraments until the end of the world. So, the signs of engrafting into the one true body of Christ that is, Baptismalong with Communion the sign of nourishing and caring for those who have been saved are vital signs of life within the church. Having said that, and recognizing that there are communities of conviction who received Scripture to say that baptism is necessary for salvation, I would humbly but resolutely submit that there is nothing necessary for salvation apart from repentance and faith in the finished redemptive work of Jesus Christ: His perfect life, His atoning sacrifice at Calvary. Can Baptism Save You? One does not have to be baptized to go to heaven. However, believers and their children should submit themselves to baptism if they are able. God commanded that we should be baptized. But our baptism, the visible expression of what God has done for us, that is, God's grace, is not the saving power but is rather the divine authentication of God's grace. The sum of the Scriptures teach us that baptism is not our testimony to God about what we have done for Him, but rather baptism is God's testimony to us concerning His salvation promised, made possible, and applied by God the Father, God the son, and God the Holy Spirit. Shall we deemphasize what the Almighty has emphasized? For not only did God command that the two sacraments are signs of salvation to be continued until the end of the world, our Lord Jesus Christ forever linked baptism to the mission of the Church in the world. For the Great Commission is Christs final mandate to the Church and is, therefore, our first responsibility. We are not only to make disciples of the nations, but the disciples should be baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Only Jesus SavesBaptism Signifies But we are back to our initial question: Do you have to be baptized to go to heaven? The Bible says that we are saved by grace through faith and that is not of ourselves. We are admonished, Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you should be saved (Acts 16:31). The Bible also commands baptism, but baptism does not save us from sin. Communion cannot save. It is not even our faith that saves, only Jesus saves. Faith is a gift from God, made possible by the grace of Jesus Christ, whereby we lay hold of the promise offered freely. Baptism is Gods sign of marking you out, bringing you in, and cleansing you from sin. The Thief on the Cross The greatest example of this truth is seen in the life of the thief on the cross. Did this man who repented and believed in Jesus Christ as God and Savior go to heaven? He was not baptized. Furthermore, he could never join in with the Christian community. He would never take Communion. But he was as much a member of the body of Christ as any member of the Church today. The circumstances, however, were not the norm, but the exception. The norm is seen in many other places in the New Testament. Let's look at two. 1. Peters Sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2:28) On the day of Pentecost, 50-days after Easter, and in fulfillment of the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit proceeded from the Father and the Son and came down upon the disciples in an extraordinary demonstration of heavenly presence and power. On that day the Apostle Peter preached before the great throng of humanity from every part of the Roman Empire, and what did he add to his preaching of repentance and faith? And Peter said to them, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will be saved (Acts 2:38 ESV). That is to be the norm, wherever possible. 2. The Philippian Jailer and His Household (Acts 16:25-40) The other instance that I will refer to happens in Acts 16. St. Paul and Silas were in prison at Philippi. We remember that God heard the hymns and prayers of the two apostolic missionaries and sent an earthquake to release them from prison. The Philippian jailer feared for his life because of the compromise of security. In fact, he preferred death by his own hand rather than to fall into the cruel charge of his severe superiors, but Paul stopped him. The Roman correctional officer, therefore, cried out to the Apostle Paul, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved (Acts 16:30). Saint Paul and Silas declared the Good News and this man was saved. The Apostle Paul not only baptized him but the Bible says that Paul baptized the entire household (Acts 16:32-33). This narrative along with Acts 2 demonstrates the normative place of baptism in the mission of the church and in the life of a believer. While Baptism Doesnt Save, Baptism Does Signify Gods Glorious Activity in Our Lives But we say again: baptism is a sign of salvation that is commanded as the norm. Every believer and their children should be baptized, but there are exceptions. The broken-hearted parents little babydying in infancywho is now singing praise to the One who welcomed the children and laid His hands upon them for blessing; and the adolescentlost in an automobile accidentwho professed faith in the resurrected Christ, but who had not yet been baptized, is safe in the arms of Jesus. Pastor, What Must I Do to Be Saved? I was in the VA Hospital in Miami when I met him. I was calling on a Veteran in the next bed. But as I read from the Scriptures and prayed, this elderly gentleman listened in. He then hollered across the curtain, Pastor, what must I do to be saved? I shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ Sir, salvation is not of works, it is all of grace, a gift to you from God. The Bible declares that you are a sinner, you cannot save yourself, God will punish sin, but by grace, He extends to you a new life in His Son, Jesus the Christ, fully God and fully Man, who died on the cross for your sins, who rose on the third day that you, too, will live, though you die. The elderly veteran repented and trusted in Christ as he lay dying. Suddenly, the happy new convertof 95 years of age or solamented to me his regrets. Among those regrets was having squandered his years in profligate living, and having never been baptized. I told him that I would baptize him. I called for the hospital chaplain, and we baptized him. I left him with the covenantal waters running down his face, as he lay in his bed. When I returned to see our parishioner and my new father in Christ, he was not there. The Veteran had died. He is in heaven, but baptism didnt put him there, Gods grace did. Baptism was a loving sign from God that He had washed away the old man and created a new man. But what if he had died before baptism? Well, I think you know the answer by now. Baptism doesnt save us; baptism signifies Gods presence and power to us. So repent, be baptized, and baptize your children. But if Gods Providence prevents the sign of Gods Promise, you, too, will be safe in the arms of the Savior. Michael A. Milton, PhD (University of Wales; MPA, UNC Chapel Hill; MDiv, Knox Seminary), Dr. Milton is a retired seminary chancellor and currently serves as the James Ragsdale Chair of Missions at Erskine Theological Seminary. He is the President of Faith for Living and the D. James Kennedy Institute a long-time Presbyterian minister, and Chaplain (Colonel) USA-R. Dr. Milton is the author of more than thirty books and a musician with five albums released. Mike and his wife, Mae, reside in North Carolina. Notes: 1. O. Palmer Robertson, The Christ of the Covenants (Baker Book House, 1980). Photo credit: GettyImages/Mexitographer 02:08 BILD zuruck in Kabul : Der Taliban-Horror jetzt verhungern die Babys Plus, Bill's Message of the Day, my take on the first leg of the Trump-O'Reilly History Tour. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices The European Patent Office (EPO) announces that German physicist, biochemist and bioinformatician Matthias Mann has been nominated for the European Inventor Award 2019 for developing techniques to screen proteins in bulk for the early detection of disease. Named as one of three finalists in the "Research" category, Mann has been at the forefront of the field of proteomics for over two decades, heading two separate departments at research institutes in Germany and Denmark. His inventions have made it possible to not only identify, but also count and label every single protein contained in a tissue sample or bodily fluid such as blood. Analysing protein levels using Mann's techniques can reveal tell-tale signs of medical conditions, such as cancer and liver disease, even before patients fall ill. His techniques aim to help clinicians better predict, diagnose and treat illnesses. "The ability to precisely measure the proteins at work inside cells offers unprecedented insight into how the human body works, how we fall ill and what kinds of treatment could work best," said EPO President Antonio Campinos announcing the European Inventor Award 2019 finalists. "As a dynamic, rapidly-expanding industry, proteomics holds huge potential for improving human health. This potential has been unlocked through the pioneering work of Matthias Mann." The winners of the 2019 edition of the EPO's annual innovation prize will be announced at a ceremony in Vienna on 20 June. Turning to proteins for exact medicine Proteins are the building blocks of living organisms. They carry out the orders of cells and reflect health threats in the body. While DNA is the blueprint for life, proteins are the tools that enable all functions in the body to work. A close study of the state and function of proteins can thus reveal previously undiscovered health threats; proteomics - a relatively new field of biology which studies the entire set of proteins of an organism or system holds great potential for our understanding of disease. While the importance of proteins has long been recognised by scientists, capturing information about them from individual cells has posed a major challenge. Cross-disciplinary scientist Matthias Mann became interested in finding solutions to this problem, drawing on his expert knowledge in different fields of research. After completing a Master's degree in Physics from the Univerity of Gottingen, Mann received his PhD in Chemical Engineering from Yale University in 1988. Studying under John Fenn, who received the 2002 Nobel Prize in chemistry, Mann specialised in mass spectrometry (a means of analysing proteins by sorting ions into a spectrum based upon their mass-to-charge ratio) and proteomics, and began exploring the precision that the analysis of vapourised proteins could unlock. In 1994, Mann patented a new technique to extract proteins from human cells called nano-electrospray. This process vapourises the proteins after their extraction before charging them electrically. Using this technique, researchers can identify the mass, and hence the identity, of each vapourised protein by examining the extent to which it is deflected by an electric field. Mann's nano-electrospray technique revolutionised the study of proteins, laying the groundwork for the field of proteomics as a discipline. It enabled mass spectrometry to screen proteins in bulk to reveal which proteins are contained in tissue samples or body fluids like blood. Sequencing thousands of proteins simultaneously has provided researchers with an unprecedented comprehensive view of how proteins function in cells. This work would guide his career from then on, and contributed to his mentor John Fenn winning the Nobel Prize. The invention has raised the prospect of spotting early symptoms of diseases, such as the early onset of breast cancer or fatty liver disease, for example. This information could also help identify the cause of poorly understood diseases such as Parkinson's and diabetes by identifying "biomarkers" and find new treatments for them. Applying the technology to diagnose diseases Since returning to Europe in 1989, Mann has led research efforts to apply his invention to a clinical setting. In 2012, Mann described a further addition to the technique called SILAC (or Stable Isotope Labelling by Amino Acids in Cell Culture') to label proteins in a machine-readable manner, replacing previous labour-intensive labelling methods. The technique involves replacing carbon atoms with a heavier isotope, in turn uniquely altering the mass of a protein. The diseased cells, on the other hand, contain only the naturally occurring, lighter carbon atoms. This means that all the proteins in the healthy cells are slightly heavier than those in the diseased cells. This change in mass appears as a 'tag', identifiable in mass spectromic measurements, which allows for the quick and automated mapping of the proteome (the complete set of proteins expressed by an organism). Overall this leads to improved diagnoses, more effective treatments and a better experience for the patient. Labelling proteins by using the SILAC process allows medical specialists to track all the proteins produced by individual patients, creating a full protein census' that can help spot differences between diseased and healthy cells faster and more accurately than ever before. "With the methods used so far, large-scale measurement of proteins was simply impossible," says Mann. "It would take years and we need to be able to do it within hours or days!" Mann's work spans a vast range of technical fields: not only has he developed preparation techniques for biological samples, and advanced labelling techniques for diseased cells, he and his team have also developed advanced software tools to analyse results. The inventor says that in the long term, mass spectrometry and proteomics may help bring about the transition towards personalised treatments by identifying the unique combination of proteins at work inside each individual. From the lab to the market Today Mann is a global authority in the field of proteomics. He runs research groups at the Department of Proteomics and Signal Transduction of the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry in Martinsried, Germany, and at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Protein Research within the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He has authored over 700 peer-reviewed publications and is one of the most widely cited researchers in the world. Mann has also filed 36 patents worldwide. The inventor says that he always checks whether a breakthrough in the laboratory has been patented before publishing it in a scientific journal. When his initial search yields no results, he calls patent advisors provided by his institute to investigate prospects for commercialising the technology. "I am a believer in both open science and intellectual property, but if you want your research to really help people, it is not enough just to publish it," says the inventor. "It has to be developed into a product that people can use and for that you need patents." In 2016, a start-up called PreOmics spun out of Mann's research group at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry to commercialise a sample preparation kit that simplifies mass spectrometry for researchers. In 2017, PreOmics had 12 employees and a turnover of EUR 550 000. With the personalised medicine market valued at an estimated EUR 170 billion over the next five years, Mann's work is likely to continue to find new uses in the future. While the technology he patented is currently used mostly in research contexts, there are an estimated 300 companies already active in the field of proteomics worldwide and counting. He is involved with a large number of international projects and closely collaborates with partners in industry, including German drug company Evotec and Swedish biotech firm Atlas Antibodies. This is a big motivation for the inventor. Although he finds fundamental science important and stimulating, he enjoys the challenges and opportunities that arise as his invention moves towards clinical applications. "I can make more of an impact at the interface with industry and patients than only in describing the exact role of a new protein," Mann says. As an example he points out that millions of people die of liver disease around the world every year. "They wouldn't have to die if we could diagnose it earlier. So here we can potentially make an impact on millions of people." Pandorum is developing these bio-engineered cornea tissues in collaboration with the L.V. Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), one of the worlds largest eye institutes that have served more than 26 million people. Pandorum Technologies Pvt. Ltd., a tissue engineering and regenerative medicine startup company, announced the development of bio-engineered cornea tissue that can promote scarless healing of corneal wounds through a bio-inspired regenerative approach. Scientists at Pandorum have successfully formulated a novel hydrogel that can encapsulate and deliver corneal stem cells to the wound site, to stimulate scarless regeneration. Pandorums cell-laden hydrogel can be directly applied in a minimally invasive manner as Liquid Cornea to corneal wounds and perforations, and can also be 3D bio-printed as corneal lenticules for lamellar keratoplasty. This research study was presented at the prestigious annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO-2019) held in Vancouver, Canada. Dr. Tuhin Bhowmick, the co-founder of Pandorum who holds a PhD from the Indian Institute of Science, and is an alumnus of European Molecular Biology Labs (EMBL), said, Being able to bio-engineer critical tissues such as the human cornea is a significant milestone. The work is currently in the stage of animal studies, and the team is preparing to move towards pilot human studies in 2020. According to the World Health Organization, corneal disorders are one of the major causes of blindness worldwide. Though surgically replacing the opaque tissue with a clear corneal allograft is usually effective in improving vision, there is an acute shortage of cadaveric human corneas available for transplantation. In India alone, there are over a million people suffering from the bilateral loss of vision due to corneal disorders, and at least a few folds more from unilateral corneal blindness. At Pandorum, we are working to close this gap using bio-engineering approach- through stage-wise development of a platform, which is ultimately aimed to liberate us from the dependencies on human donor cornea, added Dr. Bhowmick. Pandorum is developing these bio-engineered cornea tissues in collaboration with the L.V. Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), one of the worlds largest eye institutes that have served more than 26 million people. Cornea surgeons Dr. Virender Sangwan and Dr. Sayan Basu, and scientist Dr. Vivek Singh, at LVPEI, have been playing a crucial role in the translation of this technology. Dr. Sangwan, a Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar awardee, renowned for the development of a novel surgical technique- Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation (SLET), was one of the early visionaries of this collaborative project. In his view, Pandorums Bio-engineered Cornea is a transformational technology and could lead to scarless healing of corneal injuries with rejection-free corneal graft. In a way, such platform technology addresses the need for the repair of corneal injuries and perforations, and also meeting the requirement for partial or total replacement of cornea. Pre-clinical studies involving clinically relevant corneal wound models in rabbits are presently underway, led by Dr. Singh and Dr. Basu. According to Dr. Singh, a cornea and stem cell expert, The technology can be a game changer in the field of regenerative treatment of corneal wounds after the safety and efficacy have been successfully established. Pandorums investors include Binny Bansal, Sachin Bansal, Sunil Munjal, T.K. Kurien, Indian Angel Network (IAN), 021 Capital, Karnataka Information Technology Venture Capital (KITVEN), Kotak Investment Advisors and 500 Startups. It is a proud moment for all of us to present our breakthrough innovation at the ARVO-2019 meeting, said Arun Chandru, co-founder of Pandorum Technologies. Founded in 1928, ARVO is the largest eye and vision research organization in the world that includes nearly 12,000 researchers and clinicians from over 75 countries. Such innovation at global level has been possible due to the excellent government backed biotech startup ecosystem, the support of our investors and our exceptional multi-disciplinary team. Yes, translation of such living tissue-based therapies from lab to clinic is an arduous and expensive task involving comprehensive animal and human studies, added Mr. Chandru. More importantly; we are excited about our potential to impact millions of lives. The JV will commercialize products in the Chinese market which has an increasing demand for generic drugs. Alembic has entered into a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) dated 7th May, 2019 with SPH SINE Pharmaceutical Laboratories Co Ltd, China ('SPH Sine') & Adia (Shanghai) Pharma Co Ltd, China ('Adia') to promote and sell pharmaceutical products for the Chinese market. Initially this JV will commercialize products manufactured by Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited. Subsequently the JV plans to set up a manufacturing facility in China. The JV will commercialize products in the Chinese market which has an increasing demand for generic drugs. It will initially launch with a portfolio of oral solids and is expected to widen to other areas like injectable, ophthalmology, dermatology & oncology which arebeinq currently developed and manufactured by Alembic. SPH Sine, Alembic & Adia shall hold 51%, 44% & 5% equity in the JVA. The JVA has standard terms including management functioning, restriction on transfer of shares, non-compete and termination events and consequences. The signing of JVA was done at the Vadodara Headquarters of Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited in august presence of: Mr. Zhao Yong, Chief Minister of SPH Group; Mr. Gu Haoliang, Chairman of SPH Sine; Mr. Chirayu Amin, Chairman & CEO of Alembic; Mr. Pranav Amin, Managing Director of Alembic; Mrs. Hua Wei, President of Adia; and other senior level dignitaries from all the organizations. DWC brings Limb Salvage Programme to India Dalvkot Wound Care (DWC), a one-of-its-kind wound care centre, has launched its first dedicated wound care centre at Vydehi Campus, Whitefield, Bengaluru, India. DWC, a brain child of Dr Mahesh Kottapalli, M.D. - Infectious Diseases Consultant and Wound Care Specialist in Dallas, Texas, USA, aims to provide non-invasive and effective remedies to chronic wound problems and also offers the Limb Salvage Programme, which was not available in India until now. The centre is armed with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. DWC has installed a Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber to accelerate the healing of chronic wounds. Hyperbaric oxygen is used to treat all conditions which benefit from increased tissue oxygen availability, as well as infections where it can be used for its antibiotic properties, either as the primary therapy, or in conjunction with other drugs. This procedure can be performed as an Outpatient Day (OPD) Care procedure and does not require hospitalization. DWC has an extremely talented and experienced team of wound care specialists as well as certified endovascular, cardio and laparoscopy surgeons. They are supported by a team of 50 trained wound care nurses. The cost of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for 10-12 sittings for 1-1.5 hrs is approximately INR 40-45K, although it varies due to individual patient healing response. Dr DV Chalapathy, Director, DWC said, DWC as a dedicated wound care is a pioneering effort in India. At our facility, we have set up the latest technology single chamber HBOT (USFDA approved) costing close to INR 2.5 crore. The wound care centre also set up a 25-bed facility in Bengaluru. With this, we plan to expand our footprint to at least 25 more centres all over India. I am delighted that DWC is all set to mark a new chapter on affordable, focused & next gen wound management in India. Mainly Jem's Birding & Ringing Exploits in the Eastern Province & Ringing Trips to Bahrain By Trend The trading house of Azerbaijan will open in the capital of Kazakhstan Nur-Sultan in September 2019, Trend reports referring to the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan. According to the report, the Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev met with the Secretary General of the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States (Turkic Council) Baghdad Amreyev in Baku. The current activities of the Turkic Council were discussed during the meeting, and discussions were held for the further expansion of relations within the framework of cooperation. It was noted that the Councils member states successfully develop relations in the political, trade, economic, humanitarian and other fields within the framework of the Turkic Council, creating great opportunities for expanding cooperation between small and medium-sized business entities. The importance of the creation of trade houses by Azerbaijan for stimulating exports, within the framework of adopted mechanisms, was also discussed. Thanks to the work done, several trading houses were opened in a number of countries, with indicators of good performance. It was noted that another trading house will open in the city of Nur-Sultan in September of this year. Among others, the issues related to the creation of a chamber of commerce and a joint investment fund, and to the organization of a business forum within the framework of the VII Summit of the Turkic Council, which will be held in October 2019 in Azerbaijan, were also addressed during the meeting. Reciba en su email: noticias de ultima hora, analisis tecnicos o el cierre de mercado Email no valido Nombre requerido Recibira las informaciones mas relevantes del dia en tiempo real Que informacion desea recibir? Noticias de Ultima hora Boletin Cierre de Mercado Boletin analisis tecnico Boletin Fundsnews Debe seleccionar un tipo de boletin Acepto la Politica de privacidad Debe aceptar la politica de privacidad Responsable EMPRESAS DEL GRUPO WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Finalidad La remision de informacion, novedades y promociones Establecimiento o mantenimiento de Relaciones Comerciales. Legitimacion Consentimiento del interesado. Interes legitimo en el desarrollo de la relacion comercial Destinatario Empresas del Grupo WEB FINANCIAL GROUP Derechos Acceso, rectificacion, supresion, limitacion, oposicion y portabilidad Informacion adicional Politica de Privacidad de nuestra pagina Web + INFORMACION By Trend Thanks to comprehensive reforms, Azerbaijan has significantly improved its international ratings in recent years, Yagub Eyyubov, First Deputy Prime Minister of Azerbaijan, said at a ceremony held for the signing of 3 cooperation agreements and 3 memorandums of understanding between the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Azerbaijani government, Trendreports. He noted that, according to the World Banks "Doing business report, this year Azerbaijan has improved its position by 32 levels, when compared to last years figures, ranking 25th among 190 countries. According to Eyyubov, Azerbaijan ranked 2-nd in terms of indicators of the protection of the interests of small business investors. According to the indicators of founding a business, Azerbaijan was among the top 10 reformers. "To improve the business environment and increase competition, as well as to improve the country's international ratings, President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on July 13, 2016, establishing a committee on business environment and international ratings. As a result of the creation of a state platform for business dialogue within the framework of the committee, working groups of 280 participants were created in 19 areas," he said. Eyyubov noted that the socio-economic development of the country accelerated as a result of economic reforms. Speaking about the Business Environment in Azerbaijan and Competition in Agribusiness project, as part of the implementation of which cooperation agreements and memorandums of understanding were signed, Eyyubov noted that this project is scheduled to be completed by late 2020. "Today's event brings cooperation between Azerbaijan and IFC to a new level," Eyyubov added. PR Newswire WEST CHESTER, Pa., May 7, 2019 WEST CHESTER, Pa., May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Chester County public defender and longtime West Goshen resident, P.J. Redmond, announced his intentions to replace retiring Magisterial District Judge, William Kraut for District Court 15-3-02. The court includes the Chester County townships of West Goshen, Westtown and Thornbury. District Courts handle small civil claims, traffic cases, landlord/tenant suits, initial bail hearings and preliminary hearings. "I'm running to continue my lifelong service to our community. I've spent all my working life in this town and my intentions are to serve with honesty, respect and integrity," said Redmond. "As a lawyer with 30 years of experience litigating cases and negotiating solutions in our community, I understand the inner workings of the Magisterial District Court and am well equipped to serve our residents." After graduating from Salesianum, Redmond earned his undergraduate and Juris Doctorate degrees from Villanova University. He was a partner with a private law firm then shifted his work to serve indigent clients as a Public Defender. When P.J. isn't in court or visiting the county jail, he dedicates his time as a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts of America and volunteers with the Saint Agnes School in West Chester Borough. He accounts his experience at every level of Court and his volunteer service to understanding the values of service and giving-back to the West Chester community. He was raised in West Goshen off Boot Road and now resides in the Caswallen development in West Goshen with his wife, their two sons and two dogs. With lifelong roots in the area, Redmond has gathered support from both Republican and Democrat voters who understand his qualifications for District Judge. In Pennsylvania, the positions of Magisterial District Judge and School Board are the only elected positions where candidates may cross-file with both parties. "There isn't a more qualified and experienced candidate for judge than P.J. Redmond. Anyone who has met P.J. knows that he will be a humble judge with vast knowledge for the position," stated Robyn Cahill, registered Republican from West Goshen. Due to Redmond cross-filing with enough petition signatures from both Republicans and Democrats, the registered Republican will appear on both ballots on May 21st. "I've known P.J. for over a decade and I cannot think of a better person to serve as our next judge. It's not about politics with P.J.; he's an honest and straightforward guy who cares about all types of people in our community," said Jose Mestre, registered Democrat from West Goshen. "District Judge is not and should not be a political position. I vow to the serve all residents equally and to continue my service to the community in a wider way by serving as the District Judge. My career has enabled me to understand the importance of respect to every person in a case. I'll continue that, and promise honesty and integrity as I campaign toward November's election. Our team of volunteers is composed of both Democrats and Republicans; they know I've worked hard here all my career and am well qualified by that experience, " said Redmond. Residents of Westtown, West Goshen and Thornbury are encouraged to learn more at https://www.PJforDJ.com SOURCE P.J. Redmond The Azerbaijani community of the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan has issued a statement on the 27th anniversary of the occupation of Shusha by the armed forces of Armenia, Trend reports May 8. Commenting on the statement, deputy chairman of the Coordination Council of the Azerbaijani Community of the Nagorno-Karabakh Region of Azerbaijan, professor Elchin Ahmadov said that Armenians, occupying the historical lands of Azerbaijan over the past two hundred years, in order to create a Great Armenia, committed genocide, terrorism, deportation and ethnic cleansing against the people of Azerbaijan in 1905-1906, 1918-1920, 1948-1953, 1988-1993. In the second half of the 80s of the 20th century, Armenia made territorial claims to Azerbaijan regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which is an integral part of Azerbaijan, Ahmadov said. At the same time, on December 1, 1989 the Soviet Socialist Republic of Armenia violated the sovereignty of Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic, adopted the decision, joining the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast (NKAO) to the Armenia SSR which was contrary to the Constitution of Azerbaijan. In 1988-1992, the armed forces of Armenia occupied over 30 settlements in Nagorno-Karabakh where Azerbaijanis lived. On February 26, 1992 Khojaly genocide which happened before the eyes of the whole world, was a bloody page of this occupation policy. At the end of the 20th century Armenia, creating mono-ethnic state, occupied Nagorno-Karabakh and Lachin, Kalbajar, Aghdam, Fuzuli, Jabrayil, Gubadli, outside of the Nagorno-Karabakh region and nowadays 20 percent of territory of Azerbaijan are under the occupation, he noted. All these territories underwent ethnic cleansing by Armenia. As a result of this occupation more than one million Azerbaijanis became IDPs from the occupied territories. In consequence, the occupation policy pursued by Armenians was accompanied by massacres, 20,000 Azerbaijanis were killed, 50,000 persons became disabled getting injuries of various degrees. Among these crimes 27 years ago - on May 8, 1992- as a result of the military aggression of the armed forces of Armenia, Shusha, an ancient centre of culture of Azerbaijan, and its 30 villages, were occupied and destroyed, 195 civilians were killed, 165 wounded, 43 lost, there is no information about the fate of 58 people, Ahmadov added. As a result, over 24,000 people of the population of the Shusha district became IDPs and live in 58 districts of Azerbaijan, he said. He added that over 170 architectural monuments and 160 historical and cultural monuments in Shusha were destroyed, also historic monuments, mausoleum and mosques were desecrated, and many rare manuscripts were destroyed. Generally, in 1988-1993 as a result of Armenia's military aggression historical, architectural and religious monuments of Azerbaijan, including more than 600 historical and architectural monuments, 144 temples and 67 mosques were completely destroyed by the armed forces of Armenia, he said. At the same time, 40,000 exhibits of 22 museums, 4,600 books and valuable historical manuscripts from 927 libraries, were destroyed as well as precious examples of historical heritage of Azerbaijan were stolen from museums and later sold at different auctions. On the 27th anniversary of the occupation of Shusha by the armed forces of Armenia, more than 80,000 Azerbaijanis of Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan as well as 34,000 Azerbaijanis of Shusha district urge international community to support Azerbaijans justified position in achieving objective political and legal assessment of the ongoing acts of aggression against the Azerbaijani people, he noted. We urge the international community and international organizations to put an end to the destruction of the historical, architectural and religious monuments of Azerbaijan, and this occupation, he said. We demand from all international organizations to carry out humanism ideas, and take effective measures in order to expose the occupation policy of Armenia. At the same time, for the voice of more than one million people to be heard, and for the restoration of the violated rights of the Azerbaijanis, the criminal acts of Armenians must be internationally condemned. We believe that the fair settlement of the conflict is possible after the withdrawal of the armed forces of Armenia from the occupied territories and returning of more than 80,000 Azerbaijanis expelled from the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan to the native lands, he added. We believe that the Armenian and Azerbaijani communities of Nagorno-Karabakh will live in peace and reconciliation within the borders and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Only in this case, sustainable and fair peace can be provided in the region. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. By Azernews By Abdul Kerimkhanov Azerbaijans city of Shusha, which was once called the Pearl of Karabakh, was captured by Armenians and practically wiped off the earth face 27 years ago. Due to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in the early 1990s, Azerbaijan, came face to face with an aggressive policy of ethnic cleansing carried out by Armenia. Despite the fact that the brave sons of Azerbaijan fought courageously and showed heroic resistance to the aggressor, the heavily armed Armenian forces occupied Shusha on May 8, 1992. The Armenian armed forces seized Shusha with the aid of the 366th Soviet regiment, killing and disabling hundreds of innocent Azerbaijani civilians, expelling the entire population of the town, and destroying, burning down, and looting numerous cultural, religious and historical monuments. As a result of Shusha occupation, as many as 23,156 Azerbaijanis were expelled from their permanent residence places, and thus ethnic cleansing was completed in Nagorno-Karabakh, where there was not a single Azerbaijani left. Today Shusha, officially declared as a historical-architectural reserve in 1977, is almost completely ruined. The most valuable architectural monuments of the city were destroyed and their stones were used for construction works in Armenia. Ancient Azerbaijani monuments with 2000-year history are were destructed. In addition, the Armenian invaders, seeing that there was nothing more to destroy, began to demolish the old Shusha fortress walls. Azerbaijani cemeteries in Shusha were destroyed and defiled, temples were demolished, museums were plundered and burned. Today Armenia turns the occupied territories of Azerbaijan into a dump of radioactive waste, about which there are specific reliable facts. This region, which is beyond the control of the civilized world, is used for narcotic drugs production and transit, and at the same time as one of the main international terrorist training centers. Specialists estimatethat more than 876 settlements, about 7,000 industrial, agricultural and other enterprises in Shusha, more than 153,000 housing units with a total area of more than nine million square meters were looted, burned and destroyed. In addition, as many as 4,366 social and cultural facilities of Shusha, 616 secondary schools, 242 pre-school institutions, 397 hospitals, 10 clinics, 10 maternity hospitals, 76 pharmacies, four sanatoriums and 10 mosques were destroyed by Armenian aggressors. During the defense of Shusha, there were many examples of heroism and self-sacrifice of Azerbaijani soldiers. Albert Agarunov, the tankman of Jewish origin, was posthumously awarded the title of National Hero of Azerbaijan. To the very end he was in the besieged city and destructed a lot of enemy tanks. A bullet hit Agarunov when he carried wounded Azerbaijani soldiers out of the battlefield. Before the occupation, the Shusha city was known for its creative talented residents. Perhaps that is why so many great Azerbaijanis are from Shusha. This land gave birth to such Azerbaijani geniuses as Bulbul, Seyid Shushinsky, Khan Shushinsky, Rashid Behbudov, Uzeyir Hajibeyli, Niyazi, Fikrat Amirov, Khurshid-banu Natavan, Togrul Narimanbayov and others. The Azerbaijani people will never forget the pain inflicted on them by the Armenia occupiers. This pain will subside only after the liberation of Karabakh - the heart of Azerbaijan, and its pearl - the city of Shusha. The I-20s: An International Student Photo Exhibit was just one of a weeklong series of events. The photo exhibit opened last week in Smith Unions Lamarche Gallery, and featured headshots of Bowdoin students with their passports along with excerpts from interviews about their journey adjusting to Bowdoin. This is the second time Ive created an exhibit centered around the experience of international students on campus. Last year it was called Home Away from Home, but this year we wanted to deemphasize nostalgia and focus more on their experiences at Bowdoin, said ISA President Kevin Yu 19. Another goal for Yu and the ISA this year was to increase the visibility of international students on campus. And so they collaborated with the student magazine Avant-Garb, socialized with Colby College's international student organization, and organized more club events for the association's members to get together and share their experiences. The photo exhibit was no small task. Radu Stochita 22 photographed all of the participants and members of the International Student Association Board, and interviewed and transcribed their stories. It took several hours to set up the posters in the gallery. Yu stressed how thankful he was for all of his board members: vice president Giovanna Munguia 21, treasurer Anais Sarrazin 20, and secretary Cecilia Markmann 21. Visitors at the gallery opening last week shared their perspectives on the show. Its always so interesting to have things on campus that feature Bowdoin students. I feel like seeing them walking around, I wont know as much about their background unless I talk to them or come to an exhibit like this, said Meera Prasad 19. I cannot even imagine what its like to be an international student," Prasad continued. "It must be a cultural shock. But having people highlight the things they miss at home really contextualizes [their experiences] for me and Im thankful that they shared it." Yu was pleased with who came out for the opening. I think for me what was really meaningful today was seeing the members of the administrationPresident Rose, Dean Khoa, Dean Lohmannand hopefully this is a sign of the continued support for international students on campus, he said. Bowdoins International Student Association also collaborated with Burnett House, the Japanese Student Association and the Africa Alliance to host Flavors of the World, a campus-wide food tasting event featuring dishes prepared by international students and catered meals from Brunswick restaurants. Some notable student contributions included several authentic Italian pasta dishes by Anna Bosari 21 and jollof, a West African rice dish prepared by Ruby Ahaiwe 21. Sweet Angel, a Thai restaurant on Pleasant Street, catered several rice and noodle dishes. There was also a display of sushi from Aki on Maine Street. For dessert, members of the community sampled gelato from Brunswicks Gelato Fiasco. Dubal Holding and China North Industries Corporation (Norinco) have signed a comprehensive MoU during the week of the 2nd Belt and Road Forum in Beijing to boost co-operation as part of the UAE Vision 2021 and Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, BRI. The MoU sets out plans for the intended collaboration in the industrial, mining, and energy sectors, said senior management of both companies who were present at the signing ceremony. Dubal Holding CEO Abdulnasser bin Kalban commended Norinco for its commitment to invest in the UAE economy and to co-invest together in BRI countries. "There are natural synergies when UAE and Chinese entities work together. We look forward to building a long-term strategic partnership with Norinco and this MoU is a great milestone for the journey ahead," he added. During the historic state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping last year, 13 MoUs were signed amongst ministries in multiple sectors. The pact between Norinco and Dubal Holding reflects the initiatives taken by enterprises to enhance strategic collaboration and shows progress made by China and the UAE. Norinco Senior VP Luo Kaiquan said the company had been actively participating in the construction and development under the BRI. "The signing of this MoU is a clear example of the companies strategy to engage in the principles of mutual consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits. Under the framework of the BRI, we will be able to fully leverage the advantages of both companies and further deepen our cooperation," he added.-TradeArabia News Service Johnson said he has wanted to work at Bowdoin for years and when he saw a position advertised, he jumped at the possibility. For me, Bowdoin has always been a small liberal arts school with a big reputation, a college that combines all the advantages of a close-knit community without any of the insularity. The exact same thing can be said about the Russian department, he continued, which has really blossomed through the dedication of Professor Gillespie. I was struck right away by the warm and family-like atmosphere among the students and facultywhich really is the advantage of a smaller program!along with the rigor of the language program and the range of different course topics in Russian and related disciplines. More Essay Success Meanwhile, for the third year running, Bowdoin has achieved distinction in the National Post-Secondary Russian Essay Contest, organized by the American Council of Teachers of Russian (ACTR). Dalia Tabachnik 21 was awarded a bronze medal in the heritage speakers Level 1 category. Last year, Dalia received an honorable mention in the same category. Winning a bronze medal places Tabachnik among the top eight students in her category in the nation. Furthermore, Tabachnik was the only medal winner from a small liberal arts college. The UAE Food Bank said that the number of operational sites of the Food Bank has become five after the opening of branches in Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman. "We are striving to achieve the vision of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum to make the Bank an integrated humanitarian system that enhances the spirit of mutual support and cooperation in the community by taking advantage of the surplus food within a sustainable organizational framework so that all citizens and residents are an active part of this charitable and humanitarian approach, as well as contributing to food security by reducing wastage of food, said Dawoud Al Hajri, director general of Dubai Municipality and deputy chairman of the Board of Trustees. He praised the efforts and achievements of the UAE Food Bank, which resulted in the distribution of 7,943 tons of food since the start of the bank in 2017 until the end of April 2019, the signing of agreements with 50 food establishments, 13 charities and three partnerships with other food banks in the Arab world. During the same period, Food Bank fridges were distributed, including 80 fridges in Dubai's mosques, 10 in Ajman and 10 in Ras Al Khaimah. Al Hajri explained that since its inauguration, the UAE Food Bank Food Bank has to its credit a number of outstanding achievements. Since the beginning of 2019 until the end of April, the Food Bank has distributed 554 tons of food. The Bank had distributed a total of 2,645 tons of food in 2018, while the amount of food distributed in 2017 was 2,142 tons, he said. TradeArabia News Service RM of Ellice-Archie Reeve Barry Lowes says a proposed federal bill on environmental assessments would be bad news for the oil-rich municipality he represents. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us RM of Ellice-Archie Reeve Barry Lowes says a proposed federal bill on environmental assessments would be bad news for the oil-rich municipality he represents. Bill C-69, which is currently before the Senate, is intended to overhaul the environmental review process for large infrastructure projects like pipelines, but Lowes said the bill would make them much harder to build. He said it will be "bad for the whole country." "You shouldnt be able to block the sideways transportation of goods from one province to the other. I just think thats wrong. I think its terrible." Pipelines bring in large tax revenues for the rural municipality. The six pipelines that cross the area bring in more than $1 million each year. "If youre going to have oil and youre going to market it on the world market, youve got to be able to get it to the coast, so why should the people closest to the coast be able to stop you from marketing your product?" There is currently a slowdown in new oil wells in the municipality as few have been drilled in the past two years, he said. Lowes is firmly behind moving oil by pipeline rather than by rail, which Bill C-69 could impede with longer consultation processes. A train carrying crude oil derailed near the rural municipalitys town of St. Lazare in February, but he said the incident isnt the reason for his pro-pipeline stance. "I just think if youre going to transport oil, it should be transported in a pipeline because as soon as you start putting it on a train, its cutting into everything else theyre hauling their grain and their potash and their lumber and everything." The RM of Ellice-Archie has signed on to The Coalition of Canadian Municipalities for Energy Action, which advocates for changes to Bill C-69. The majority of the other municipalities in the coalition are in Alberta. Gene Sobolewski, the mayor of Bonnyville, Alta., and co-chair of the coalition, said Bill C-69 could also present problems for smaller municipal infrastructure projects. The impact could be "devastating" in some communities. "To municipalities that rely on things like oil, or mining, or hydro or those types of resources, (the bill) is a very invasive bill and it is very vague in terms of its language and being able to arrive at a conclusion." Municipalities should be exempt from some forms of consultation, especially around navigable waters, unless dealing with something very large in scale, he said, adding that a local project that discharges effluent into a navigable body of water could become a national issue under the proposed legislation, despite municipal governments already being legally required to consult. Some of the groups concerns deal with uncertainty in the language of the proposed law. The language is open to interpretation and doesnt provide clarity on municipal land-use planning, waterway use, Indigenous consultation or federal grants, according to a press release from the organization. The bill should also include language to promote resource development, Sobolewski said, which would assist communities hit economically by the recent decline of Canadas oil industry. "Weve seen a decline in population, weve seen an uptick in the food bank usage, weve seen an uptake a nasty increase in foreclosures. Its not unreasonable that Bill C-69 needs a serious retooling." Speaking during question period last week, Environment and Climate Change Minister Catherine McKenna, who is sponsoring the bill, said the consultations outlined in the proposed legislation will ensure "good projects" go forward in a timley manner. "We know we need a better system and better rules to develop our resources in a way that protects the environment, that has proper consultation and accommodation with Indigenous peoples." She said the Liberal government will continue to work with senators as it moves through the Senate. dmay@brandonsun.com Twitter: @DrewMay_ WINNIPEG - The family of an Indigenous woman whose death prosecutors described as worse than any horror movie says there is finally justice now that her killer has been found guilty. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. WINNIPEG - The family of an Indigenous woman whose death prosecutors described as worse than any horror movie says there is finally justice now that her killer has been found guilty. "It's not fair what happened to her, but I am fairly grateful that there was justice for her today," Christine Wood's father, George Wood, said Wednesday. Christine Wood is shown in a Winnipeg Police handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Winnipeg Police MANDATORY CREDIT It took about two hours for a jury to convict Brett Ronald Overby, 32, of second-degree murder in the 21-year-old woman's death. Evidence during the trial showed that she was stabbed 11 times, her throat was slit and her skull and leg were broken. Blood was found all over Overby's basement. "How did Christine Wood die?" Crown lawyer Brent Davidson asked in his closing address Tuesday. "She was slaughtered." A second-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory life sentence. Wood was from the Oxford House First Nation in remote northern Manitoba and had travelled to Winnipeg in the summer of 2016. She was staying at a hotel with her parents, who were in town to support a sick relative, the night she disappeared. The family was extremely close, her parents testified, and Wood texted her mother, Melinda Wood, every single day. After the young woman's disappearance, her parents spent months searching Winnipeg looking for answers. Wood's body was found 10 months after she disappeared in a ditch near a farmer's field just outside the city. Court heard she had met Overby through the online dating website Plenty of Fish and they arranged to meet for a few drinks. "That was a meeting from which she would never return," Crown attorney Chantal Boutin said during the trial. Overby admitted to killing Wood, but his lawyer was asking for a manslaughter conviction because Overby said he didn't remember what happened and didn't mean to harm her. He testified that he went back to his house with Wood but she started acting erratically and violently. After taking Wood down to his basement to show her a mouse skeleton, she came at him with a knife, Overby said. He said that's when he blacked out. He next remembered seeing Wood lying on the floor in a pool of blood, he told court. Sheila North, a relative and a former grand chief, said the trial was difficult on the family but it was important they stay strong to honour Wood's memory. She shared a hug with Wood's parents in court and they told each other in Cree that "it's finished." The verdict sends an important message to Indigenous people searching for justice, added North, especially after recent high-profile acquittals. "I was fearful that something bad would happen and the Tina Fontaine experience would happen again, when we are all so hopeful and then hopes dashed," she said. "But that didn't happen this time." Fontaine's body was pulled from the Red River in 2014, which sparked national outrage and renewed calls for an inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. The man accused in the 15-year-old's death, Raymond Cormier, was acquitted last year. Wood was not just another statistic and her life mattered, said Garrison Settee, grand chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents northern First Nations. "In this decision I think that Christine's spirit has been honoured," he said. "There is some vindication for her. She is smiling down upon us and saying, 'Thank you.'" OTTAWA - Canadians must be on guard against government efforts to tip the scales of justice, said Vice-Admiral Mark Norman's lawyer on Wednesday, as she hailed the surprise stay of a breach-of-trust charge against her client. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA - Canadians must be on guard against government efforts to tip the scales of justice, said Vice-Admiral Mark Norman's lawyer on Wednesday, as she hailed the surprise stay of a breach-of-trust charge against her client. That decision came despite "not because of" the Trudeau government's interference in the case, Marie Henein said. She alleged that included withholding key documents and information that could have helped the Canadian military's former second-in-command demonstrate his innocence on allegations he tried to undermine a federal cabinet deliberation on a large shipbuilding contract. "No person in this country should ever walk into a courtroom and feel like they are fighting their elected government or any sort of political factors at all," Henein told a packed news conference right after Norman's final court appearance. "There are times you agree with what happens in a court, there are times you don't. And that's fine. But what you don't do is you don't put your finger and try to weigh in on the scales of justice," she said at a table in Ottawa's navy officers' mess, a block from the courthouse. Wednesday's court date had been scheduled as an update on the government's progress in producing thousands of documents requested by Norman's lawyers to prove there had been political interference in the case. Instead, Crown prosecutor Barbara Mercier told Judge Heather Perkins-McVey that new information the defence had supplied her with in March had changed her mind about Norman's charge. "If at any time ... a reasonable prospect of conviction does not exist, it is our duty to end the prosecution," Mercier told Judge Heather Perkins-McVey during a 15-minute hearing. "This new information definitely provided greater context to the conduct of Vice-Admiral Norman and revealed a number of complexities we were not aware of." Neither Mercier nor Henein would reveal that information. Both Henein and Perkins-McVey praised the hard work by all sides and then it was over: "Vice-Admiral Norman, you entered a plea of not guilty. You are presumed to be innocent and you remain so. You are free to leave," the judge told him. The stay effectively ends one of the most high-profile and politically charged criminal cases in Canadian history and means it will not run through the fall federal election campaign, as had been scheduled. Vice-Admiral Mark Norman arrives to court in Ottawa on Thursday, March 28, 2019. Federal Crown prosecutors will reportedly drop their breach-of-trust case against Vice-Admiral Mark Norman on Wednesday, ending one of the most politically charged cases in Canadian history. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick Yet it did not stop the Trudeau government from being accused of interfering in such court proceedings, which dominated Conservative attacks on the government in question period a few hours later. Those allegations have centred not only on the Norman case, but also the government's handling of the prosecution of engineering firm SNC-Lavalin, which Henein alluded to repeatedly. Former attorney general Jody Wilson-Raybould alleges the prime minister and other senior staff pressured her to get Kathleen Roussel, the federal director of public prosecutions, to negotiate a remediation agreement with SNC-Lavalin on charges of alleged corrupt practices in Libya. The government has denied inappropriate behaviour in either the Norman or SNC-Lavalin cases. Henein nonetheless took an apparent shot at Trudeau's decision to kick Wilson-Raybould and her ally and fellow MP Jane Philpott out of the Liberal caucus: she noted Norman's lawyers are all women and quipped, "Fortunately, Vice-Admiral Norman didn't fire the females he hired." And she praised Roussel, saying that the decision to stay the case against Norman "tells you that when she thinks you should prosecute, she goes ahead. And when she thinks you shouldn't, she declines to do so. That's the way it should be." Norman said he wants to return to duty right away. "What I can say is that national institutions are bigger than any one person," he said. "They have to be, and they should be. So we'll watch that space and see where this goes in the days ahead." Gen. Jonathan Vance, the chief of the defence staff, said late Wednesday that the end of the court proceeding will allow him to clear Norman for duty. "We have missed Vice-Admiral Norman a great deal and I look forward to welcoming him back to work as soon as possible," Vance said in a statement. The Crown's decision to stay proceedings against Norman rocked Parliament Hill. Vice Admiral Mark Norman arrives to court with lawyer Marie Henein in Ottawa on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer accused the Liberals during that heated question period of "a dangerous pattern" of trying to use the judicial system to advance their political agenda, including by withholding documents from Norman's team. Justice Minister David Lametti insisted the government "met all of its obligations" in producing documents. The charge against Norman related to allegations he leaked cabinet secrets to a Quebec shipyard and a journalist through 2014 and 2015 to undermine the government's decision-making on a $700-million contract to provide the navy with a temporary supply ship. That contract with Davie Shipbuilding was negotiated by the Harper government but not finalized before the 2015 election. The Trudeau government tried to delay the deal after taking power, then approved it after a matter of days. But the Liberals also launched an internal investigation into who leaked news of the initial decision to delay the project. That investigation identified six leaks, after which the matter was turned over to the RCMP. The RCMP would eventually charge Norman who was suspended as vice-chief of the defence staff in January 2017 and another federal public servant, Matthew Matchett, with breach of trust. Norman's lawyers say the RCMP never interviewed or sought documents from anyone in the Harper government, and Henein revealed on Wednesday that her staff had conducted their own investigation. That included interviewing people who had come forward of their own volition to provide information they felt might be relevant. Norman thanked the Canadians who had supported him over the past two years, either through donations to help cover his legal fees or simply messages of encouragement. "I am confident that at all times I acted with integrity, I acted ethically and I acted in the best interests of the Royal Canadian Navy, the Canadian Forces and ultimately the people of Canada," he said. Follow @leeberthiaume on Twitter Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version said that the charges against Mark Norman had been withdrawn. In fact, they have been stayed. OTTAWA - Prison wardens are usually preoccupied with keeping people inside their walls. Now six Canadian prisons are taking steps to shoo away some pesky, flying visitors. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A drone operator helps to retrieve a drone after photographing over Hart Island in New York, April 29, 2018. Canada's prison service has earmarked $6 million for electronic systems to prevent tiny drones from dropping illegal drugs, cellphones or other contraband into the yards of institutions. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Seth Wenig, File OTTAWA - Prison wardens are usually preoccupied with keeping people inside their walls. Now six Canadian prisons are taking steps to shoo away some pesky, flying visitors. The Correctional Service of Canada has earmarked $6 million for electronic systems to prevent tiny drones from dropping illegal drugs, cellphones or other contraband into the yards of its institutions. The prison service is alarmed by cases of small, easily purchased flying devices delivering forbidden items weighing up to five kilograms to prisoners from the air. In one case, the service intercepted a drone-carried package containing $26,500 worth of drugs and tobacco at medium-security Matsqui Institution in British Columbia just before Christmas 2017. The service fears the camera-equipped copters could also be used in illicit surveillance operations to glean intelligence that might help with escapes. In addition, it wants to be able to catch anyone on the ground attempting to just throw a package of contraband over a perimeter fence. It is seeking a contractor to supply, install and test intrusion-detection systems as well as provide training on how to operate and maintain them. The systems will be evaluated in a pilot project over the next four years at six prisons: Mission in B.C., Stony Mountain in Manitoba, Cowansville and Donnacona in Quebec, Collins Bay in Ontario, and Dorchester in New Brunswick. A report will then provide recommendations on next steps with respect to a cross-country rollout, said Correctional Service spokeswoman Esther Mailhot. Detecting drugs and other contraband is an "ongoing and challenging task" despite practices including searches of offenders, visitors, employees, cells, and vehicles, sometimes using ion scanners and detector dogs, Mailhot said. "CSC continues to research and introduce new technology as it becomes available to better facilitate the detection of contraband, including drone detection," she said. "Preventing the introduction of contraband and reducing the use of illicit substances by offenders in correctional institutions is a priority for us." Federal solicitation documents describing the project say initial research conducted with the help of the National Research Council indicates a radar-based detection system represents the "most mature technology" for intercepting drones. However, it is possible to jam radar systems. The chosen setup should warn the operator of the presence of an approaching drone at "as great a distance from the perimeter of the institution as possible" to give staff time to mount a response, the documents say. The prison service also wants the system to: Detect an intruder approaching the fence to do a "throw-over"; Automatically identify detected targets, such as a person, car, bird or drone, based on characteristics and behaviour; Provide a means for staff to see, even at night, where a drone drops its payload and be able to identify nearby people; Support a means of allowing friendly drones to be used without generating nuisance alarms. Follow @JimBronskill on Twitter OTTAWA - Vice-Admiral Mark Norman had walked up to the entrance of the Ottawa courthouse dozens of previous times over the past year, yet this time was different: This would be the last time. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Vice-Admiral Mark Norman walks with his lawyers Marie Henein and Christine Mainville as they leave court in Ottawa on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Norman had walked up to the entrance of the Ottawa courthouse dozens of previous times over the past year, yet this time was different: This would be the last time. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick OTTAWA - Vice-Admiral Mark Norman had walked up to the entrance of the Ottawa courthouse dozens of previous times over the past year, yet this time was different: This would be the last time. Like on all those other occasions, the military's former second-in-command was dressed in full uniform as he approached the courthouse's heavy glass doors with his wife Beverly and lawyers Marie Henein and Christine Mainville. Just outside the doors, he was greeted by an unexpected supporter: outgoing Liberal MP and former lieutenant-general Andrew Leslie, who was revealed just last week as a potential defence witness. "General," Norman said. "Good morning. Good to see you." "Morning, Admiral," Leslie replied, shaking Norman's hand and giving him a brief embrace. Courtroom 37 was already packed with journalists, supporters and a group of students by the time Norman and his team arrived and took their seats near the front. A few minutes later, everyone stood as Justice Heather Perkins-McVey entered. And then federal Crown prosecutor Barbara Mercier stood and delivered a history lesson about the case. How it all started with "obvious leaks to the media" about a cabinet decision in November 2015, delaying sole-source contract with Quebec-based Davie Shipbuilding for an interim support ship for the navy. How those leaks "really had serious effects and it did cause concern for the government," which prompted an internal probe, which led to an RCMP investigation that included interviews with 30 witnesses. How the Public Prosecution Service of Canada "did a thorough analysis of the evidence and the law" and made a "considered decision to lay the charge of breach-of-trust against Vice-Admiral Mark Norman" in March 2018. How prosecutors believed then that they had a reasonable prospect of conviction, even though the bar for proving without a reasonable doubt any crime has occurred is "rightfully high," and is even higher with breach of trust. And then, Mercier continued, how Norman's lawyers came forward with "a volume of information" in March that "provided greater context to the conduct of Vice-Admiral Norman" and revealed "a number of complexities in the process." "Based on new information, we have come to the conclusion that given the particular situation involving Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, there is no reasonable prospect of conviction," Mercier concluded. "It continues to be our view that some of Vice-Admiral Norman's actions were ... secretive and inappropriate," she added. "However, inappropriate does not mean criminal." Then it was Henein's turn. This decision, to stay the proceedings, was months in the making, Henein said, and a demonstration of Crown prosecutors' having "acted in the highest traditions of the bar." "There has not been a day that Vice-Admiral Norman has walked into this court that we did not have the utmost confidence that this court would be impartial," she added, before noting that the case had been exhausting for her, for Norman and for his family. Nonetheless, "we were prepared to fight to the end," Henein said. "He did nothing inappropriate. He did nothing criminal." And then, after many months of silence, it was Norman's turn to rise and address the court. His comments focused on thanking Perkins-McVey and the court staff. "My only regret," he told the judge, "is that we would have met under different circumstances." Perkins-McVey was the last to speak, and she reflected on how only the day before, she had received yet another package of documents from the government to review and decide whether they were relevant to the case and should be released. "I know that all counsel have worked very hard to get to the point and that this decision was made after much reflection and consideration," she said. "Vice-Admiral Norman, you entered a plea of not guilty. You are presumed to be innocent and you remain so. You are free to leave." HALIFAX - Police in Nova Scotia have accused the owners of an illegal cannabis storefront of marketing some of their high-potency products toward children, including cannabis shaped like Lego bricks. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A "Lego" shaped block of very high potency THC is seen in this undated police handout photo. Police in Nova Scotia have accused the owners of an illegal cannabis storefront of marketing some of their products toward children, including edible cannabis shaped like Lego bricks. RCMP say the small blocks contained a high level of THC the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO, RCMP *MANDATORY CREDIT* HALIFAX - Police in Nova Scotia have accused the owners of an illegal cannabis storefront of marketing some of their high-potency products toward children, including cannabis shaped like Lego bricks. The small blocks contained a high level of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, police said in a news release Wednesday. However, the Mounties later issued a brief statement saying portions of their original news release included opinions "beyond scope of Nova Scotia RCMP." The police force apologized for the confusion and released another version of the statement, which does not include many key details including any mention of children or Lego bricks. Cpl. Lisa Croteau, an RCMP spokeswoman, said there were no errors in the original release, but she said it was a mistake for the Mounties to suggest a child could have died if they ate one of the cannabis blocks. She said that kind of speculation was best left to medical professionals. After executing a search warrant Monday west of Halifax, police seized about $60,000 worth of cannabis and cannabis-related products from the Timberleaf Alternative Medical Society in Timberlea, the RCMP said in the original statement. Police allege the business had falsely claimed it sold cannabis only to those with medical prescriptions. In Nova Scotia, the only legal sellers of cannabis are the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation and online distributors approved by Health Canada. The RCMP said the store had generated about $1 million in revenue from cash-only sales since the beginning of the year, having spent only $50,000 on overhead details left out of the second statement. "They often use promotional tactics, (suggesting) they are helping persons with prescriptions, selling cannabis at a lower cost than government stores and (offering) better quality goods," the Mounties said in the first statement. As well, the Mounties issued a warning to those purchasing illegal cannabis products, saying the lack of quality control is a real issue. They cited the case of a recently shut store in Lower Sackville, N.S., where cannabis derivatives were being made in a room littered with rat feces. Oman welcomed more than 3 million tourists last year into the sultanate, of which 1.4 million were GCC citizens, whilst almost 200,000 were cruise ship passengers, said a top official. This comes in line with the Oman Tourism Strategy to welcome 11 million tourists by 2040. The Ministry of Tourism is placing a stronger emphasis on the recent surge in popularity that Oman has witnessed in order to help increase awareness and promote the country as a key tourism destination throwing the spotlight on what makes the sultanate a diverse and rich destination at a series of global tourism events and travel fairs. The number of hotels also grew by 12.3 per cent in 2017-18, resulting in a 7.8 per cent growth in the amount of rooms available in the country. The most resounding growth is the number of Khareef Salalah visitors, which was recorded at 28 per cent, said senior ministry officials on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) expo in Dubai. Recent industry reports have projected a sustained annual increase in these figures as Omans reputation for hospitality, culture and heritage continues to grow, they added. On the key achievements, Salem Bin Adey Al Mamari, the director general of Tourism Promotion, Oman Ministry of Tourism, said: "The recent growth of the tourism sector in the sultanate is very pleasing and is the direct result of sustained campaigns, initiatives and programs by the Ministry to raise the countrys profile and promote investment in the sector." "These efforts fall in line with the Oman Tourism Strategy to welcome 11 million tourists by 2040," he added. Al Mamari said: "The Ministry maintains key strategic partnerships within both the private and the public sector and this helps us to promote the tourism industry by introducing new and unique attractions, services and promotions." "Our presence at global exhibitions like ATM demonstrates our commitment to showcase Oman throughout an array of international markets and position the Sultanate as a destination that can be visited at any time of the year, regardless of season. ATM is the global hub for the travel trade. The event will provide the perfect stage to showcase Oman, create further awareness and allow us to explore new strategic partnerships with public and private sector entities," he added. According to him, a series of intensive campaigns, programmes and initiatives that the ministry has conducted to boost Omans regional and international profile have all contributed to the positive response and interest. "The increase in visitors has also credited to the visa application process, which has been enhanced with the implementation of a new e-visa system that is among the safest in the world. Under the new platform, the entire process keeps pace with technical advancements through a simplified approach in obtaining visas. Furthermore, the strategic expansion and renovation of Muscat International Airport has increased capacity to accommodate the increase of visitors in the country," he added. The Omani tourism officials had earlier revealed that 31 new hotels, motels and resorts were scheduled to open this year, thus boosting the hospitality sectors portfolio with more than 3,260 rooms. Already a total of 595 apartments, 13 green lodges, 18 guest houses and 2 Heritage House projects are currently in development stage. Furthermore, leading hotel brand JW Marriott has announced that it is set to open maiden establishment in Oman in the third quarter of 2019. The 304-room five-star hotel, which is being built by the Oman Tourism Development Company, is strategically located besides the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, they added. There will be 21 entities in total from the Sultanate participating at this years ATM, including The Sama Resort and Spa, Khimjis House of Travel, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, Grand Hyatt Muscat, Aitken Spence Resorts ME LLC, Millennium Resort Mussanah, Outdoor Adventure Tourism, The Chedi Muscat, Kempinski Hotel, Crowne Plaza and Six senses Zighy- Bay resorts. In addition, Al Bustan Palace, InterContinental IHG, Bahawan Tourism LLC, Shanfari Hotels & Resorts, Al Fawaz Tours, Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Hormuz Grand, Muscat Hills Resort, Oman Air, Salam Air, Dhofar Municipality and the Alila Al Jabal Akhdar Resort will also all feature prominently throughout the event. During the expo, the ministry will target a variety of segments such as adventure tourism, cultural tourism, family tourism and business and corporate tourism. With the increase in tourism market-based representatives, the ministry also aims to increase direct flights to and from Oman in the near future and diversify tourism offerings to include leisure, travel and MICE segments.-TradeArabia News Service HALIFAX - A popular seaside park in Halifax will see an estimated 80,000 trees cut down this summer as part of ongoing restoration efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Juan more than 15 years ago. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. HALIFAX - A popular seaside park in Halifax will see an estimated 80,000 trees cut down this summer as part of ongoing restoration efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Juan more than 15 years ago. Point Pleasant Park was hit by the loss of more than 70,000 trees when the Category 2 storm blew through the Halifax area and across central Nova Scotia in late September 2003. A runner heads through Point Pleasant Park in Halifax on Friday, August 13, 2010. An estimated 80,000 trees are to be cut down or trimmed in Halifax's largest municipal park this summer. The project is part of a more than 15-year effort to restore Point Pleasant Park, which was hit by the loss of more than 70,000 trees when Hurricane Juan blew through Nova Scotia in late September 2003. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan Brendan Elliott, a spokesman for the Halifax Regional Municipality, said a comprehensive plan was developed for the park in the years following Juan to ensure the forest returned to health. "This is the right time to start looking at where the maintenance needs to take place," Elliott said. "We now have growth that we can look at and say, 'Here's where the heavy growth is, and here is where we need to do thinning and trimming.' " Elliott said smaller trees will be felled in a selected 10-hectare area this summer to allow room for larger, healthier trees to flourish. He said it's estimated there are about 100,000 trees in the section to be worked, and the plan is to leave 20,000 standing. "This will be substantial," Elliott said. "You will notice when this is done that there has been a cull of trees, but we are looking at quality here over quantity." He said the idea is to help return the 75-hectare forested area of the park to its original Acadian forest condition. The Acadian forest region is populated with species such as red spruce, yellow birch, balsam fir and sugar maple. Associated species include red pine, eastern white pine, eastern hemlock and beech. Tender documents released by the municipality call for the cutting of a combination of 11 different hardwood and softwood species including Norway maple, sycamore maple, silver maple, Norway spruce, Scotch pine and Douglas fir. The city expects this year's cutting to be finished by the end of July. Elliott said the work will make the remaining trees more resistant to heavy winds. "Once we remove the smaller, weaker trees, it exposes the rest of the trees to more sun and then actually exposes them to wind as well, which then increases the strength of their trunks and their root system, so that if we ever had another situation like Juan, the trees would be in better shape to survive," he said. The plan is to cut another 10 hectares a year over the next two years in different areas of the park, although the exact number of trees to be cut hasn't been determined. Elliott said the trees cut down will be left to decompose in order to provide nutrients for the remaining forest. QUEBEC - A second prominent intellectual has told the Quebec government it is going down the wrong path with its secularism bill, saying there is no compelling reason to lump teachers among the public servants who'd be prevented from displaying their religious beliefs at work. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Charles Taylor, left, co-author of the Bouchard-Taylor report, is greeted by Quebec Minister of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusiveness Simon Jolin-Barrette as he arrives at a legislature committee studying a bill on secularism, Tuesday, May 7, 2019 at the legislature in Quebec City. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot QUEBEC - A second prominent intellectual has told the Quebec government it is going down the wrong path with its secularism bill, saying there is no compelling reason to lump teachers among the public servants who'd be prevented from displaying their religious beliefs at work. Historian Gerard Bouchard was critical of the government's decision Wednesday, telling assembled lawmakers that no scientific evidence exists to show that teachers wearing religious symbols would indoctrinate or traumatize students. "If we turn to the prohibition of the wearing of religious symbols among teachers, I wonder where is the higher motive that would justify this intervention?" Bouchard asked during legislature committee hearings. "Frankly, I do not see it." The Coalition Avenir Quebec government has said its proposed legislation is inspired by a 2008 report written by Bouchard, a historian, and philosopher Charles Taylor. That report recommended that public sector employees wielding coercive authority such as judges, police officers and prison guards be prohibited from wearing religious symbols on the job. Bouchard said that if the government limited its restrictions to coercive state representatives such as police officers and prison guards, it would solve part of the problem. But he said Bill 21 is also problematic because it doesn't clearly state who will enforce the rules or what the sanctions will be. The Legault government has been heavily criticized for the pre-emptive use of the notwithstanding clause in Bill 21 to override potential constitutional challenges brought by people claiming their rights and freedoms have been infringed. The proposed law is unlikely to end the debate, as the government hopes, and instead will only revive the issue, Bouchard said. "The use of the notwithstanding clause, which would put the brakes on the debate, we're already hearing from jurists who say they will contest this," he said. Were the bill not "radical," he added, the notwithstanding clause would not be necessary. Earlier, Quebec Immigration Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette defended the proposed religious symbols law that Taylor and the Quebec Human Rights Commission had labelled discriminatory during testimony Tuesday. Jolin-Barrette defended the government plan to oblige some public sector employees to remove religious symbols, describing the government's proposed legislation Wednesday as pragmatic. "We're not talking about discrimination. We're talking about a situation where, because of their role, it won't be possible to wear a religious symbols," Jolin-Barrette told reporters. Bill 21 would prohibit public servants deemed to be in positions of authority including teachers, police officers, Crown prosecutors and prison guards from wearing religious symbols on the job. A grandfather clause would protect people already hired in those positions as long as they don't switch jobs. Jolin-Barrette said other parties tried unsuccessfully to deal with the question of state secularism. "We think our approach is moderate, pragmatic, and above all, applicable," he said. On Tuesday, Taylor said the bill would "end the careers" of certain people and make it more difficult for them to integrate into Quebec society, creating feelings of alienation and division. Following the murder of six Muslim men in a Quebec City mosque in 2017, Taylor disavowed his earlier position on restricting religious symbols. He now says the debate has led to the stigmatization of religious minorities. A major Quebec teachers' union told the committee that the secularism bill is an example of "wedge politics" seeking to create division. "For us, the desire to include teachers on the list of government agents covered by the ban on the wearing of a religious symbol is simply not convincingly justified by the government," the Centrale des syndicats du Quebec said in a written brief presented Wednesday. The union also called the use of the notwithstanding clause unjustified. "In doing so, the government is dangerously trivializing its use and preventing us from performing our duty of representation," it said. OTTAWA - A group of Canadian women's organizations has called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to withdraw controversial changes to asylum laws in his government's omnibus budget bill because of the harm they would cause to women targeted by harsh U.S. immigration policies. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau delivers a speech in Ottawa on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick OTTAWA - A group of Canadian women's organizations has called on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to withdraw controversial changes to asylum laws in his government's omnibus budget bill because of the harm they would cause to women targeted by harsh U.S. immigration policies. Last year, the United States said it wouldn't accept asylum claims based on fleeing domestic violence. Canadian organizations that help vulnerable women said the American decision would mean any woman whose asylum claim was denied in the U.S. would also be denied full access to Canada's refugee determination system under the Liberals' budget bill. The Liberals want to change Canadian laws to prevent asylum-seekers from making refugee claims in Canada if they have made similar claims in certain other countries, including the United States. The new provision in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act was tucked into a 392-page omnibus budget bill tabled last month. An open letter to Trudeau from 46 groups, many of which support battered women and victims of violence, ask him to scrap the proposed restrictions that they call "deeply harmful" to female refugees. "The proposed amendments are a step backward from Canada's current refugee determination system, which has long recognized domestic violence as a basis on which women may seek Canada's protection," said Amanda Dale, director or the Feminist Alliance for International Action at a press conference on Parliament Hill Wednesday. "These amendments have the result that women who experience domestic violence will not benefit from the full and fair process to which refugee claimants are entitled under law." Trudeau has defended the changes to refugee rules by saying Canada has seen larger numbers of refugee claims because of global instability. Sustaining Canadians' confidence in the country's asylum system means ensuring those who enter Canada must do so according to the law, he told reporters last month. The government has also said the new provisions are designed to prevent asylum seekers from "shopping" for asylum claims in multiple countries. Lawyers and advocates who work with refugees decry the move as a devastating attack on refugee rights in Canada. Women's groups now joining the chorus of concern said the new law would mean Canada is, by extension, supporting the U.S. policy that blocks victims of gender-based violence from seeking asylum something they say would violate the Charter of Rights and Freedoms by denying claimants their right to due process. The new provisions remove the ability for these claims to be heard by an independent tribunal or a court. "Refugee women are not shopping for a better immigration deal, they are looking for protection," said Ketty Nivyabandi of the Nobel Women's Initiative. "If Canada is to be a leader globally in women's rights, it must continue to recognize that many countries fail to protect women from domestic violence and this is why some women and girls seek asylum here." Asylum-seekers deemed ineligible to make claims in Canada would not necessarily be deported to their homelands. They would first undergo pre-removal risk assessments to determine if it is safe to send them to their countries of origin. Border Security Minister Bill Blair told a committee of MPs Tuesday evening that all asylum seekers who fall under the new law would be given access to an expanded risk assessment, which would allow them a "hearing" before department officials where they could have legal representation. But Lobat Sadrehashemi, president of the Canadian Association of Refugee Lawyers, said there is nothing in the budget bill creating the process Blair outlined at committee. She said the groups are hopeful parliamentarians remove the refugee provisions from the rest of the budget bill. "Of course, if they don't, then there is the possibility of litigation," she said. OTTAWA - Conservatives in Canada want the federal government and the international community to push Pakistan to address its "abhorrent misuse of blasphemy laws" after the safe arrival in Canada of a Christian woman who spent eight years on Pakistan's death row. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA - Conservatives in Canada want the federal government and the international community to push Pakistan to address its "abhorrent misuse of blasphemy laws" after the safe arrival in Canada of a Christian woman who spent eight years on Pakistan's death row. Aasia Bibi's lawyer told The Canadian Press she arrived in Canada Tuesday morning, though he had not spoken to her before she left. FILE - In this Nov. 20, 2010, file photo, Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman, listens to officials at a prison in Sheikhupura near Lahore, Pakistan. Pakistani media say Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row, has left Pakistan for Canada to be reunited with her daughters. Wilson Chawdhry of the British Pakistani Christian Association told The Associated Press on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, he received a telephone text message from a British diplomat stating simply that AuAasia is out.Au (AP Photo, File) "She is finally free from all ordeals," Saif-ul Malook said in an interview from Lahore, Pakistan. "Her daughters are in Ottawa. They landed in December last year so naturally she must have been joining them." Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said last November that Canada was in talks with the Pakistani government about Bibi but would not comment on the case Wednesday, citing "sensitive privacy issues and security issues." Officials at Pakistan's interior and foreign ministries confirmed her departure, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief media. Canadian officials would give very little information about the Bibi case. Rob Oliphant, the parliamentary secretary to the minister of foreign affairs, said only: "I do know that Pakistan has indicated that she was safe and she's in the process of travelling somewhere ... We are thanking Pakistan for her safety." Politicians in many parts of the world praised Bibi's safe exit from Pakistan, including United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and United Kingdom Prime Minister Theresa May. May confirmed in the British House of Commons Wednesday that Canada's asylum offer had been accepted. "Canada made this offer and we thought it was right and appropriate that we supported the offer that Canada had made," she said. Many Canadian politicians welcomed Bibi to Canada in statements on Twitter, but Edmonton-area Conservative MP Garnett Genuis used the platform to say Canada must do more than just provide a safe haven. "Canada has a responsibility to speak out on the international stage for persecuted religious minorities in Pakistan and around the world," he said. "We must deepen our commitment to being a global defender of pluralism, human rights and democracy." Pakistan's controversial blasphemy law carries an automatic death penalty. Bibi was accused of blasphemy in 2009 after a fight with two fellow farmworkers who refused to drink from the same water jug as a Christian woman. She was convicted and sentenced to death in 2010. She was in solitary confinement in prison until Pakistan's Supreme Court overturned the conviction last October, citing inconsistencies in the evidence against her but leaving the law in place. She had been held in a locked room in protective custody ever since. The court decision led to several days of riots in Pakistan that culminated with the government striking a deal with the Tehreek-e-Labbaik political party, which was leading the protests, promising that Bibi would not be allowed to leave Pakistan. Malook said Bibi, who is in her mid-50s, had been looking forward to coming to Canada. "If you're in hell and somebody would say you're soon to be in paradise, there is no question to ask," he said. When Bibi was in prison, he said, he'd sit with his client and spend "many, many hours and I'd tell her when you are released the American president will send his plane for you and she used to laugh." Malook said his own safety is in jeopardy for helping Bibi. He hopes she will be left alone in Canada but her safety is not assured, with death threats against her and her family remaining. "The Supreme Court of Pakistan has announced that the allegation against her for blasphemy was false," Malook said. "Please don't follow her. Let her lead the rest of her life in peace." Wilson Chowdhry of the British Pakistani Christian Association said in a blog post Wednesday that he received the confirmation of Bibi's departure from Pakistan around 8 p.m. ET Tuesday. He also said she is "unwell" after suffering a decade of isolation both in and out of captivity. "She must be treated with utmost care and receive appropriate medical care now she is free," he said. A friend, who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, said he last spoke to her on Tuesday. He said Bibi and her husband Ashiq Masih had spent the last several weeks getting their documents in order. The friend said she was longing to see her daughters, with whom she talked almost daily from her secure location, protected by Pakistani security forces. with files from Hina Alam in Vancouver, Mia Rabson in Ottawa and The Associated Press. A provisional liquidator has been appointed by the High Court to a Dublin-based printing business that specialises in bingo cards, scratch cards and lottery tickets, with some 47 employees. Play Print Ltd, located at St Ignatius Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 7 was established in 1970 and had been a successful company in the Irish and overseas markets for many years. The High Court heard it had recently become loss-making due to factors including competition from new technologies in the online and digital sectors, which had eroded its competitiveness. The firm also cited the shrinkage in the bingo market over the last 20 years, a decrease in the number of clubs and community centres using bingo as a means for fundraising activities, and changes in the exchange rate between the euro and sterling arising out of Brexit as reasons for its difficulties. The court heard the company was now insolvent and unable to pay its debts as they fall due and its directors have taken a view the company is unable to continue in business in the medium to long term. At the High Court today, Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds said she was satisfied the company was insolvent and that Mr Micheal Leydon, of Outlook Accountants, should be appointed as the firm's provisional liquidator. The Judge said it was "unfortunate" that a company "that had been in business for almost 50 years" and has 47 employees found itself in this situation. Seeking Mr Leydon's appointment Stephen Brady Bl for the company said the director's position was that it was in the best interest of all parties, including the creditors, that a provisional liquidator be appointed. The liquidator would be best placed to ensure existing contracts can be completed over the next three to four weeks, counsel added. Counsel said that over the years the firm attempted to adjust to changes in the marketplace. Part of its diversification including providing security solutions to large technology companies in the online gaming sector, including Microsoft. However, it had been loss-making since 2016 and was "haemorrhaging funds." The company, counsel said, had debts of over 500,000 and is projected to make a loss for the year ending June 30, 2019, of 161,000. The firm had hoped to restructure the company but lacked the funds to implement such a move. The firm's directors are its Managing Director John Martin of Glasnevin Avenue, Dublin 11, Clair McCrosain of Ailesbury Road Ballsbridge, Manus MacCrosain of Irish Grove, Mount Merrion, Dublin, and the company secretary is Eamon Harkin of Delgany, Co Wicklow. The matter will return before the court later this month. The new chief executive of Irish exploration company PetroNeft Resources has said the company will likely be sold within the next two-to-three years. The goal of the company, in the intervening period, will be to significantly enhance the value of its existing licences. PetroNeft, whose focus is two licences in Siberia, recently said it was looking at "all options" - including the sale of its assets and the possible acquisition of new licences - in a bid to return value to its shareholders. PetroNeft owns a 50% stake in each of the licences in Tomsk and approximately 50% of its shares are owned by retail investors. Industry veteran David Sturt - who was recently named PetroNeft's chief executive - said interest has been shown in the two Tomsk-based licences. Mr Sturt's chief focus will be to build and realise shareholder value. To that end, PetroNeft is looking to further boost production at its two licences - Licence 61 and Licence 67 - in a cost-effective manner through improved fracking techniques, water flooding optimisation and improved infrastructure. Licence 61 is already producing, Mr Sturt recently indicated that following highly positive results from a recent well, Licence 67 could enter production. He also indicated that there may be potential for further development on this well in the short term. A near-term sale has not been ruled out, but Mr Sturt said an asset sale in less than three years is highly likely. Asset acquisition activity in the Russian exploration market has increased in the past 12 months. The High Court has refused a liquidator's application to impose directorship restrictions on the founder of a company which provided web design and IT strategy consultancy to blue-chip clients. Morgan McKeagney founded IQ Content Ltd, with offices in Ballsbridge, Dublin in 2000 and it had an annual turnover of some 4.5m before it was voluntarily liquidated in 2014. Mr Justice John Jordan found Mr McKeagney acted responsibly and with integrity in the affairs of the company. The "story of intrigue" surrounding the company's demise would have remained a "largely bald and unsupported narrative" were it not that Mr McKeagney got a court order giving him access to certain documents, the judge said. Mr McKeagney also opposed a "phoenix solution" by others within the firm to drive IQ into liquidation and set up a new firm as a way out of its financial troubles, the judge said. This solution involved moving of IQ's assets "lock, stock and barrel" to a new firm called Each and Other Ltd (E&O) in what was almost, if not completely, a seamless transition, the judge said. Liquidator David Van Dessel had sought a five-year directorship restriction, under company law and subject to certain conditions, on Mr McKeagney and on his IQ co-director, Paul Fitzsimons. Mr Fitzsimons did not contest the application and an order restricting him under Section 819 of the Companies Act was made against him in March last year. Mr McKeagney, representing himself, opposed the application and argued, among other things, the liquidator failed to recognise the speed, severity and unprecedented nature of the collapse of the company's revenue in its last six months. It was quite clear to the judge the "other protagonists in the company" made a decision "to engineer a swoop on the assets". Mr McKeagney "utterly opposed" this phoenix solution for reasons including that he believed the company was fundamentally sound, it was inappropriate to treat creditors in this way. Unfortunately, the judge said, he failed at a time when the firm was in crisis. Mr Justice Jordan disagreed with the liquidator's view that Mr McKeagney's allegations of collusion by his former colleagues did not establish that he (McKeagney) himself acted responsibly. If those colleagues "had acted as responsibly as he did, then the position would have been entirely different in June 2014 and the company may well have avoided liquidation", he said Mr McKeagney said the documents he obtained showed that Mr Fitzsimons and other senior members of staff co-ordinated a conspiracy involving creating a secret voluntary liquidation plan and secretly engaging with the company's bank to fund the new company. It also involved blocking of attempts to reach a settlement with Revenue on outstanding taxes and the misleading and side-lining of Mr McKeagney in key decisions. Mr Justice Jordan said the new firm, E&O, had a "somewhat extraordinary and unexplained success" in its first half year of trading. The most logical explanation for that was the majority of IQ's sales pipeline was captured by E&O and converted into revenue, he said. The judge was satisfied Mr Fitzsimons and another senior member of IQ believed they would significantly benefit from the phoenix solution and they actively worked to torpedo Mr McKeagney's attempts to save the company. He was also satisfied Mr McKeagney acted responsibly in the last 12 months when the company got into trouble by, among other things, engaging with Revenue to resolve outstanding liabilities and trying at all times to "do the right thing" by both employees and creditors. The judge also rejected allegations of irresponsibility in relation to the payment of a 90,000 per annum salary for three years to Mr McKeagney's now ex-wife, Cornelia. The liquidator asserted she did not have a job and did not attend company premises to carry out any duties. Mr McKeagney said her salary was always treated as a portion of his 208,000 p.a salary and it was done so he and his wife would have the benefit of the increased standard tax rate band. The judge accepted this arrangement was put in place after she carried out professional architectural services for the company and that the tax rate band situation gave rise to the division of his salary. The factual matrix leading up to the demise of the company was convoluted and complex, the judge said. Mr McKeagney had "paved a highway through the maze" and satisfied the judge that he "acted responsibly and indeed integrity" in relation to the conduct of the company both before and after it became insolvent. By Padraig Hoare The rent disparity between Limerick city and county could worsen the so-called hollowing out of the city centre, despite major investment allocated to revitalise its streets. That was one of the findings of an economic report compiled for Limerick City and County Council by consultants EY-DKM Economic Advisory that aims to compare progress with other areas of the country. Limericks economy continues to perform well, positioning itself as an affordable and attractive alternative to Dublin, in spite of challenges on the horizon in the shape of Brexit and a possible international slowdown, the report said. But, there is not sufficient housing in the city to cater for first-time buyers and young families, while rents are compelling people to look to the county, the report warned. With a 41.6% cost differential in average rents between Limerick city and county, such disparity could further exacerbate the doughnut effect experienced by Limerick city in recent years, whereby schools, shopping centres and other facilities locate on the outskirts of the city. This increases the challenge of revitalising the city centre. Over 9m, including 4.1m in European funding, is set to be invested in the redevelopment of OConnell Street, while a further 6m in regeneration funding was allocated to seven key projects in the city, the report said. It said since 2013, 15,800 new jobs have been created in Limerick, with more than 3,000 jobs created in the county in 2018. Limerick was similar to other regions when it came to attracting and retain talent, while risks relating to Brexit are difficult to quantify, especially at a regional and county level, it said. Between 2017 and 2018, investment in Limerick grew by 46%, with companies having invested 2.2bn since 2013, the monitor found. Growth is set to continue with the development of a number of iconic projects in Limerick, including the eagerly anticipated development of the Limerick Twenty Thirty Opera and Cleeves Sites, the University of Limericks 8m investment plan for a city centre campus and a number of other large-scale private investments, Limerick Mayor James Collins said. Irish and UK shares were mixed as the trade war between the US and China threatened to flare by the end of the week, barring a last-minute intervention by one of the combatants. The US has threatened to impose swingeing tariffs of 25% up from 10% on $200bn (179bn) of Chinese imports from Friday after the collapse of the talks which, as recently as last week, appeared to be heading for a peaceful outcome. Hopes of salvaging a deal may rest on plans by Chinese officials to visit Washington in the coming days. Evidently the Chinese government has decided that it cannot afford to make too many concessions to the US, accounting for their decision to rewrite large parts of the trade agreement. "This puts the two sides back at square one, and it looks like Mr Trump will now listen to the hawks, rather than those such as the Treasury Secretary, who was previously pressing for a resolution, said Chris Beauchamp, chief market analyst at online broker IG. Like Brexit, both sides want a deal, but on their terms, and now it seems like the US will push harder in order to get concessions. "The path to a deal seems much rockier now, with volatility on the rise, he said. The Ftse-100 ended higher, helped by a weaker pound. After large losses earlier this week, the Dax and Cac stock indices also ended slightly higher. As the talks between the Conservatives and Labour politicians on reaching a Brexit consensus dragged on, sterling edged lower to 86.07 pence against the euro. Jennifer McKeown, who heads up the global economics service at Capital Economics, said that the escalation in the trade war would hit the Chinese economy more than the US but that the fallout could badly affect financial markets. The effects on business confidence and financial markets around the world could be more significant, potentially adding to reasons for renewed policy loosening, she said. And at the margin, increased trade tensions could contribute to the US Fed and the ECB adopting a more cautious stance, Ms McKeown said. Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa's first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), has announced plans to launch a direct flight from Sharjah to Tunis, Tunisias capital city, starting from July 4. The new flight will operate three times a week; on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The flights depart Sharjah International Airport at 15:30 hours local time, arriving at Carthage International Airport in Tunis at 19:05 hours local time. The return flights depart Carthage International Airport in Tunis at 20:05 hours arriving in Sharjah at 05:05 hours local time. Adel Al Ali, group chief executive officer, Air Arabia, said: We are pleased to add Tunis to our growing destination network from Sharjah offering a new and affordable travel option to visit the country. Tunisia is a culture-rich destination with a great appeal for tourism and we look forward to the start of this service that will significantly add to the convenience of residents in both UAE and Tunisia." Known for its golden beaches, sunny weather and affordable luxuries, Tunisia offers its visitors a great mix of attractions spreading from its cosmopolitan capital city Tunis to the ancient ruins of Carthage and its coastal resorts. Air Arabia currently serves Tunisia from its hub in Morocco with direct flights connecting Casablanca and Tunis. Air Arabia now serves over 170 international and domestic routes from its hubs in the UAE, Morocco and Egypt. - TradeArabia News Service Communications Minister Richard Bruton has refused to say how much money a private firm will have to invest in the rollout of broadband despite pressure from opposition parties. Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein rounded on the minister in the Dail and called for transparency in relation to the cost of the National Broadband Plan (NBP). Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said the 3bn to be put up by the State was rolling off Mr Brutons tongue but accused him of being very coy on the liability for the private firm approved to deliver rural broadband. Even in the best case scenario, should this proceed, the Government will give with one hand to rural Ireland and take away with the other. There is actually a worst case scenario wherein billions of taxpayers money gets poured down a black hole, we are left with what amounts to a very expensive white elephant, and rural Ireland is still left without the broadband it needs, she said. Leaders questions in the Dail was suspended after opposition parties hit out at the Government for publishing a raft of documentation relating to the NBP just minutes before TDs entered the chamber. Social Democrats co-leader Catherine Murphy described the publication as a cynical move. Holding up a large bundle of pages, Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said the publication of documents relating to the NBP illustrates the sharp practice of Government in its management and handling of this project from the start and its attempts to spin its way out of any serious questions or accountability about the project itself. What is the upfront contribution of the remaining bidder to this project? he said. Why will the minister not be fully transparent and give us that figure now? Why is the State taking all of the risk? Mr Bruton refused to answer this, stating that it could prejudice the final signing off of the contract. Referring to written warnings made by Department of Public Expenditure secretary general Robert Watt, Mr Martin said: It is a very basic question because the secretary general and his officials raised questions about the viability of the plan and the capacity of the bidder to deliver it. Having had many missed targets in the last seven years, we could be facing more missed targets. There is a complete lack of confidence in the documentation about the capacity of the remaining bidder to deliver. Labour leader Brendan Howlin called for the public to own the proposed national broadband company rather than a private monopoly. Labour wants to see high-speed rural broadband delivered as soon as possible, and all parties in Dail Eireann agree on this point, he said. But Labour also wants to protect people living in rural Ireland from being exploited down the line. By giving so much control over the rural broadband network to a private monopoly, there is a risk that the cost of broadband could become much more expensive once the 25-year contract is over. Speaking on behalf of the rural Independent grouping, Mattie McGrath described this as another sorry chapter in the rural broadband saga and claimed it is simply an election stunt. I believe this should be scrapped, its too risky. The country's leading housing organisations have launched a new campaign for more social and affordable housing. The Housing Alliance, which is made up of six separate housing bodies, has said it can deliver more homes, at scale, to help the State meet its social and affordable housing commitments. A consortium suing over the awarding of the country's second mobile phone licence on grounds including bribery and corruption has been permitted by the High Court to amend its original statement of claim. Persona Digital Telephony and Sigma Wireless Networks' amendments mostly arise out of the findings of the Moriarty Tribunal in March 2011. Ms Justice Teresa Pilkington rejected an application by the State and businessman Denis O'Brien, who are defendants in the case, to strike out the claim amendment application. Persona/Sigma is suing the Minister for Public Enterprise, the State and Mr O'Brien over the awarding of the licence to Mr O'Brien's then Esat Digifone consortium in the mid-1990s. Former Fine Gael minister for communications, Michael Lowry, is a third party in the case. Mr O'Brien claimed allowing the amendment of the original claim would be a "recipe for chaos". The State opposed it on grounds of delay and the difficulties of witnesses being expected to remember matters that occurred more than 22 years ago. The Persona/Sigma consortium initiated its case in 2001. Following a number of legal issues and challenges since then, the consortium sought last year to amend the statement of claim. It was originally claimed, among other things, the licence competition was conducted unfairly and that Esat won because of bribery of the then minister Lowry, now independent TD. File photo of Michael Lowry. When the Moriarty Tribunal published its report on the matter in 2011, it made findings adverse to Mr Lowry and Mr O'Brien. In 2012 the Supreme Court had also overturned a High Court ruling striking out Persona/Sigma's action over delay which meant the case could continue. Persona/Sigma, which had got the assistance of a UK third party litigation funder to continue its action, then asked the courts to clarify whether this type of funding was legal here. The Supreme Court ruled it was not in 2017. Persona/Sigma had to resolve their continued funding issue and when this was done, they applied last year to amend the statement of claim against the State and Mr O'Brien. Against the State, damages were now claimed for, among other things, fraud and causing damage by unlawful means. Against Mr O'Brien, there was a new claim of unjust enrichment and the seeking of account of profits. In her judgment allowing the amendment, Ms Justice Pilkington said the defendants correctly pointed out that even if the amendment to the claim was refused, this would not stop the case. It was clear the amendments sought were substantial and most arose from the findings of the Moriarty Tribunal, she said. Court rules permit any party to alter pleadings on such terms as may be just and for the purpose of determining real questions of controversy. While there had been certain slippage, the judge could not see, taking the matter as a whole and looking at all the issues to be considered, that the delay was excessive in the unique circumstance of the case. While there is undoubtedly a prejudice to the State defendants being required to defend proceedings at this remove, it did not outweigh the necessity to ensure the litigation is now heard "and heard speedily". Regarding Mr O'Brien's claims that he was now expected to defend claims of unjust enrichment, it will be a matter for the trial judge as to whether such a claim can be advanced on the facts of the case. The seeking an account of profits claim seemed to be a "slight refinement" of something that had already been claimed in the case, she said. Arts Minister Josepha Madigan has confirmed she and the Cabinet disagreed with concerns raised by senior officials on the 3bn National Broadband Plan. Confirming the scale of the concerns raised by officials at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, including its Secretary-General Robert Watt, It is important to stress that the department fulfils its role in giving its advice to ministers. It is not unprecedented that ministers would disagree with their department and ultimately government is about making decisions, she told the Irish Examiner. I am very confident having listened to contributions that we have been fully transparent and that it is the right decision, notwithstanding the concerns, she added. Ministers were advised formally that the 3 billion National Broadband Plan, approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday, does not represent good value for money. In advice circulated to all Ministers in advance of the meeting, the Department of Public Expenditure said the plan benefits are not justified by the cost. The proposal is to install a high-speed broadband connection to half a million homes and businesses not served by commercial operators. Minster Paschal Donohoe ignored such concerns saying the future benefits outweigh those cost concerns. The decision I have made to on balance to go ahead with the project relates to the many issues I have touched upon about the future of our economy, Donohoe told reporters. Drugs worth an estimated 11,000 were seized and 29 people were arrested as part of a large garda operation mounted during the Kinsale 7s rugby tournament in Co Cork over the May Bank Holiday weekend. Gardai confirmed this morning that as part of the policing plan for the tournament, they deployed additional plainclothes members from the Divisional Drugs Unit as well as members from the Roads Policing Unit, in and around the town of Kinsale. Two men have been remanded in custody today after they were accused of the murder of Eamon Kelly who was killed in a shooting in Dublin 2012. Kenneth Donoghue, 43 with an address at Hazelgrove Estate, Tallaght, Dublin 24, and Darren Murphy, 48, with an address at Rory OConnor House, Dublin 1, were charged with murdering Eamon Kelly at Furry Park Road, Killester, on Dublin's north-side, on December 4, 2012. They also faced a connected firearms charge for unlawful possession of a Glock pistol with intent to endanger life. Father-of-nine Kelly, 65, was shot a number of times in the chest as he walked towards his home. The two men were arrested yesterday/today (wed) and taken to Raheny Garda station where they were charged. Mr Donoghue before Judge Bryan Smyth at Dublin District Court, yesterday/today (wed) morning. Garda Donal O'Shea gave evidence of arrest charge and caution. A bail application in a murder case must be made before the High Court. Mr Donoghue was remanded in custody and will face his next hearing on May 14 at Cloverhill District Court. Co-defendant Darren Murphy appeared before Judge Geraldine Carthy during the evening sitting of the district court. Detective Garda Basil Grimes told the court Mr Murphy replied, Ive nothing to say when the charges were put to him. The accused dressed in a navy t-shirt and trousers sat silently throughout the hearing. He was remanded in custody and will appear at Cloverhill District Court on May 15 next. A book of evidence has yet to be completed before they can be returned for trial. In 2015 Sean Connolly, then aged 35, of Bernard Curtis House, Bluebell, Dublin was jailed for life after he pleaded guilty to the murder of Eamon Kelly. Help India! By Inder Bisht, TwoCircles.net Prabhu Kalbelia has been living with his family on the outskirts of Bemali village of Bhilwara district for the last forty years in a makeshift shanty which has no provision of electricity and drinking water. Support TwoCircles Eight other families of the community, who originally belong to the sapera or snake charmer tribe, who are nomads and categorised as scheduled tribes, live in separate hovels beside a road on the villages grazing land. Prabhus two little kids nudged us towards a large piece of land nearby barricaded with a boundary wall. Pointing towards two small mounds of soil covered under a rich growth of grass at a corner, the kids yell, Dada (grandfather) and Dadi (grandmother) are buried here. Kalbelias trace their ancestry to Guru Gorakhnath, a Hindu yogi and saint who dont cremate their dead ones. We bury our dead ones by putting the body in sitting position under the ground and build a small structure or place a rock over it for remembrance. We call the process samadhi, says Ratan Nath Kalbelia, a social activist belonging to the community. Meanwhile, the owner of the land where the graves are located arrives. Pretending to have no knowledge about the graves, Gulab Singh, belonging to the upper-caste Rajput community, initially tries to evade answering any questions but eventually accepts that he only realized much after buying the land that graves were present inside his plot I had purchased this land from the village panchayat. No one had told me that people are buried here. I found it out later, says a mustachioed Singh, mildly. In Rajasthan, every community has its own separate cremation grounds where people from other communities, particularly of the lower castes, are not allowed to cremate their dead ones. With Kalbelias the problem is more acute as they bury their deceased members. In the absence of access to cremation grounds, Kalbelias bury their dead ones near their homes, says Ratan Nath. As most of the community members dont own the rights over the land where they live in, villagers in several occasions in the state have reportedly damaged the graves and have even pulled out the bodies in order to intimidate the community. High court has given an order that Kalbelia community is allowed to bury their dead ones in grazing or government land, but village panchayats still create hurdles by giving the land illegally to individuals, which creates tension between the owners and the community, says Ratan Nath, giving the example of Gulab Singh who was fraudulently given a land which had graves in it. Having lived the larger part of the last century as wanderers in search of food or as a part of their way of life, nomadic tribes of the state have been struggling to gain their political and constitutional rights ever since they settled permanently at one place. After the Wild Life Protection Act, 1972 was implemented, catching and domesticating wild animals like snakes, and sloth bears became illegal which fundamentally altered the way of lives of nomadic tribes like Kalbelias, says Prabhu. No longer being the snake charmers, Kalbelias gradually started settling in the peripheries of villages doing odd jobs like manual labour and contract farming to keep their home running. However, with a society characterized by a rigid caste hierarchy, it is difficult for the nomads to fit in into the village caste system. They are condemned to live in the periphery of villages political, economic and social life. The established village communities never accepted the nomads as part of their lives and barely tolerated them in the outskirts, says Ratan Nath. At the Kalbelia settlement outside Bemali village, people restrict their movement to their tents as the night falls due to the absence of any arrangement of lighting. Pointing towards a cemented platform in the middle of the cluster of huts made of bamboo and plastic sheets, Prabhus wife Parsi says that the raised structure saves them from getting bitten by poisonous snakes and other pests during the rainy season. As the night falls this area gets infested with reptiles and snakes, especially during the monsoon season. We dont have electricity supply because we dont own the rights to the land, says Parsi. All the adults of the settlement posses voter IDs and Aadhar cards, however, they dont have title rights over the land where they have been living or a Below Poverty Line card that can help them get cheap ration. It shows the priority of the political leaders. They are interested in peoples votes but not in providing the basic services necessary for their survival, says Ratan Nath. Prabhu says he does cast his vote during elections to the candidate others ask him to give. Rights activists and community leaders who have managed to find some ears in the mainstream political parties have been trying to highlight the issues plaguing the Kalbelia and other nomadic communities for some time now. However, due to the inherent differences among the over thirty nomadic tribes in the state, the seven million nomads have failed to emerge as a unified political force and hence dont impress the political players enough to give due attention to their problems. Working with the rights of the nomads, Paras Banjara, belonging to the nomadic Banjara community, says that the lack of ground-level implementation of the government schemes directed towards the nomadic communities is another big problem hampering their inclusion in the mainstream of society. In the absence of land rights, people cant even claim the benefits of government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna which gives monetary compensation to build houses. In 2012, me as part of a group of activists had met with the then chief secretary of the state and explained to him the issues facing the communities, says Banjara. After the meeting, Banjara says, the chief secretary ordered all the district collectors of the state to make identity cards of the nomadic people. The second decision was to give below poverty line status to all the communities. The third was to give every nomadic family the title right of 446 square feet in urban areas while 2674 square feet in rural areas, he adds. Despite the decisions taken in the meeting, that were later communicated to district offices, their ground level implementation didnt happen. Banjara opined that one of the main reasons for non-implementation of the government decisions was the general hostile attitude of village panchayat members towards the nomadic people. Ultimately, the government decisions are implemented by the village panchayats. And in these panchayats the upper-caste members dont allow the nomadic communities to live in their villages, says Banjara. They procrastinate the decisions. Panchayats have the autonomy to implement the government orders, he adds. Naveen Narayan, a rights activist with the NGO Action Aid says that the identity of the groups largely depends upon their ability to produce proof of land. A caste certificate is made on the information provided in land documents. If a person doesnt have them then its very difficult to authenticate his or her caste, says Narayan. Citing an example of an incident in one of the districts of the state, Narayan says in a rape case the victim couldnt prove that she was a Kalbelia, which is recognized as a Scheduled Caste in that district, hence couldnt get compensation under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act. Narayan suggests that the government should accept self-declared affidavits by individuals to circumvent the issue of caste identification. Congress and BJP parties in their manifestos for the Assembly Election if 2018 had promised to provide free title rights to landless nomadic communities, however, four months into the newly elected government no difference has been noticed in the state, claims Banjara. We are demanding that both the political parties introduce a Right to Estate like the one we have in Kerala and Andhra Pradesh where the government purchases land and gives it to the landless. The onus to provide land to the landless should fall on the government, says Banjara. Schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel had a noose made from blue tape wrapped around her neck and appeared to be trying to pull it away, the garda who discovered her body has told the Central Criminal Court trial of the two boys accused of her murder. A doctor who formally pronounced the 14-year-old Kildare schoolgirl dead said she may have been pulled or dragged by the material around her neck. The accused, who are both 14, cannot be named because they are minors. They have each pleaded not guilty to murdering Anastasia at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road, Lucan on 14th May last year. Boy A is further charged with the 14-year-olds aggravated sexual assault in a manner that involved serious violence to her. He has also pleaded not guilty to that count. Garda search specialist Sgt Declan Birchall told prosecuting counsel Brendan Grehan SC that he and four colleagues went out on the afternoon of May 17, 2018, to search parklands and derelict buildings close to where the 14-year-old Kildare schoolgirl had last been seen. His colleague Sgt Sean White alerted him to a possible find at Glenwood House, telling him he may have found something but it might be a mannequin. Sgt Birchall entered the house to the rear and found himself in an old kitchen. The building was in disrepair with sections of the roof missing and extensive damage from fires that had been lit over the years. There was rubbish and debris throughout. He walked up two steps into a corridor which was again extensively damaged. "It was really dangerous," Sgt Birchall said. 'Room 1' Down the corridor was a toilet and to the right was a doorway with no door looking into what has been referred to as Room 1. Inside Room 1 were two windows which were boarded up. One of the boards had a small hole big enough to put your head through and from this came the only source of light in the narrow, fire-damaged room. Standing at the door Sgt Birchall saw the body of a young girl naked but for a pair of black socks. She was lying on her back with her feet facing the door and her head towards the opening in the window. He thought something was covering her face and as he got closer he realised it was her hair, which was matted with blood. 'Fingers inside ligature as if she was pulling it away from her neck' He could see blood from her nose and mouth. Her head was tilted back and there was what he described as a ligature, a blue tie, blue adhesive tape or a noose around her neck. She had three fingers inside it as if she was pulling it away from her neck, he said. Her neck was tilted as though it had been pulled back, he added, and her right arm was completely outstretched. She showed no signs of life and from the condition of the body, Sgt Birchall presumed she was dead. Looking around the room he noted a black hooded top with white script, a pair of shoes and shorts. Detective Garda Eoin Conway later photographed the scene and told Mr Grehan that among the items photographed was a piece of timber and a concrete block which had blood on them. He also photographed blood on one wall up to the level of the windows. Detective Garda Seamus O'Donnell of the Garda Technical Bureau told Gerardine Small BL for the prosecution that the adhesive tape found around Ana's neck was Tescon branded insulation tape with a Nylon exterior and adhesive inside. It is typically used to secure sheets of insulation, he said. The tape was wrapped once around Ana's neck and knotted or secured in some way but he couldn't see how. Blood-staining on all four walls of Room 1 She had fake fingernails on three of her fingers. All over her body he could see small cuts and abrasions, there were defined marks on the face and a lot of damage to the scalp. The face was heavily bloodstained with hair matted to it. Det Gda O'Donnell identified seven areas of blood staining on all four walls of Room 1. He also took numerous samples from the body and the room for further analysis. He identified the piece of wood found at the scene, originally part of a door frame, which he showed to the jury. Det Gda O'Donnell said it measures 930mm in length by 30mm by 35mm. It was, Det Gda O'Donnell said, heavily blood stained with a bent nail protruding from one end. He then held up the bloodied concrete block for the jury to see. Items were taken from the scene to Garda Headquarters in the Phoenix Park where Det Gda Conway photographed them. These included a piece of the adhesive tape that was around Ana's neck. Sticking to it could be seen a piece of hair and a locket in the shape of a love heart. Det Gda Conway took close-ups of the bloodstained timber and concrete block. The block had multiple blood stains and hair sticking to it, he said. Items of clothing were also taken from the scene and photographed by Det Gda Conway. These included a black hoodie with "witch craft" written on the hood and a crescent on one arm. It had blood stains on the inside. A strap top, the witness said, was torn and blood stained. A pair of shorts or hot-pants with the words, "yesterday now tomorrow" was photographed. The witness further identified a pair of leggings with dust and dirt on them. A white bra had blood staining on the left cup. One strap was torn and the clasp had been pulled open. A pair of underpants had blood staining and a pair of black boots was recovered from the scene and photographed as was an i-phone in two pieces, the witness said. Pronounced dead Dr Muhammad Ghaffar told Mr Grehan that he officially pronounced death following the discovery of the body. When he arrived at the scene he saw the body of a young girl lying on her back. She had something tied around her neck but it wasn't tight. Her face was covered in blood and there was blood on her hair. She had multiple bruises including to her thighs. Her mouth was open and he could see blood inside it. By the way her neck was pulled back he said it was "possible" that someone had pulled or dragged her by the material around her neck. He pronounced her dead at 14.19 on May 17, 2018. The jury also saw a 3-D representation of Glenwood House with the position of Ana's body and some of the items taken from the scene. Garda Seamus Timmins told Gerardine Small BL for the prosecution that the 3-D image was created using maps, plans and photographs of the scene. The trial continues in front of Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women. A top academic says that there should be more oversight of the National Broadband Plan with strict penalties if targets are not reached. Dr Paul Davis head of the Management group of the Faculty of Business in Dublin City University warned that the Government must be cautious of dealing with an investment company as there is a risk that we will end up with another Eir. He told RTE radios Morning Ireland that the promises about governance for the plan seem very weak. When you look at what we did re ministerial appointments with the national children's hospital, where we had full control over the board and we were unable to control the costs and the runoff of the way that process was put in place, and now we have a private board with only one ministerial appointment hopefully reporting back on a monthly/quarterly basis. I'd like to see a lot more oversight and I'd like to see a lot more clarity on the way the contract is going to be structured to ensure we get these reports and also what penalties will be in place, not what subsidies, but what penalties will be in place for not achieving the targets that are set out. We have to be cautious of the risk that this is an investment company and may take a more short term view of looking at turning the company over in a very short term. Most of the value in the company will be created in the first five to seven years when the initial infrastructure goes in, after that we're into maintenance, there's nothing in the contract to stop the company selling, therefore the risk is that the company will sell itself off within five or seven years or even sooner once the value is created and that poses a big risk that we'll end up with another Eir on our hands, outside control of the government and probably not succeeding in what we set out to do. When you look at what they're promising it is dependent on the Eir network so it's not dependent on what they're doing. "They are dependent - that as much as possible of the network infrastructure means reusing existing poles and ducts - we have to assume that they're of a standard and that can be rolled out sufficiently and that, more importantly, Eir will want to do that for a reasonable price. If I was Eir and I was a wholesaler I'd be looking at this and saying I've got a sole bidder on the other side of the wholesale market, I'd take advantage of that. We have no idea what the final cost will be. This is a commercial decision, this is the Government saying this is what they believe it will be and hope it will be, but it will be a commercial decision. This may be what the government feels it is going to contribute to, this is not necessarily what it will actually cost in which case National Broadband Ireland may not have sufficient funds to pay Eir to do the business. Dr Davis warned that by the time the roll outcomes through, new technologies could be in place that would offer a cheaper solution so taking a technology-neutral approach is a risk. There's a high-risk strategy here of investing in something that we believe is technology neutral for 25 years. A Dutch hospital responsible for the death through medical negligence of an Irish patient has apologised to the widower in the case after their CEO accused him of scapegoating her. Adrienne Cullen (58) passed away on New Year's Eve 2018 in Holland having fought cervical cancer. Ms Cullen, who lived in the Netherlands with her husband Peter, successfully sued her hospital, UMC Utrecht, for medical negligence after it lost test results in 2011 that showed she had cervical cancer. The hospital reportedly found the results two years later in 2013, by which time her cancer was terminal. In an interview with the Irish Times, Professor Margaret Schneider of UMC Utrecht said she understood the anger of Peter Cluskey at the loss of his wife and his desire to "scapegoat" her. Mr Cluskey wrote to Professor Schneider asking her to apologise for the comment which he deemed inappropriate particularly coming from a facility responsible for the untimely and recent death of his wife. Adrienne Cullen. Professor Schneider apologised for her comment and said that the wording used was "inappropriate." "Let me explain what happened during the interview. Responding to a question about your call for my resignation, I responded by saying that I understand your anger and sorrow. "It was very unfortunate that I used the words scapegoating me, being a non-native English speaker. What I tried to say was that I understand that you hold people responsible and more specific the CEO of the hospital, being me. "There was no intention what so ever to disrespect your feelings and opinions. Again, my deepest and sincerest apologies." Meanwhile, a memorial lecture will be held in Ms Cullen's memory at the UMC Utrecht on Friday. Adrienne Cullen was present for the first lecture in her name at the hospital on April 13, 2018. Adrienne publicly criticised the hospital for the manner in which it had handled her case and for their attempts to silence her by demanding a non-disclosure agreement or gagging clause as part of her legal settlement. The hospital admitted liability in the Cullen case but Adrienne received compensation of just 545,000. However, this was a huge sum by Dutch standards and represented the biggest pay-out for medical negligence in the history of the State. Adrienne Cullen in December 2018. Prior to her death, Adrienne spoke of her belief that gagging clauses continue to perpetuate a culture of silence which allows medical negligence cases to continue unchecked. She said: "We are handed over to the legal departments of hospitals like we are being thrown to the wolves. I will resist against that happening so no other patients are damaged in the future. "What I have achieved in Utrecht isn't nothing but it is only the first step on a very long journey. It has to be Europe wide. "There has to be an absolute ban in the EU on using confidentiality clauses which are gagging clauses in contracts between patients and their hospitals because they do not belong there. That would be a very good first step." The homelessness crisis is taking an increasing toll on people's mental health, with one support service carrying out nine crisis interventions every working day since the start of the year. Merchant's Quay Ireland (MQI) said its mental health team had been involved in 767 such interventions since January, a higher rate than for the same period last year. Sarah Scully of the MQI mental health team said of the increased interventions: "That is definitely something that we are actually seeing. More people are coming in, in a crisis. We have had more crisis interventions and more one-on-one caseloads. In addition to its homeless and drugs services, MQI also runs a night cafe which allows dozens of people to sleep at its Dublin city centre building and access related services. Referrals to the mental health team can come from within the MQI client base and from elsewhere, but Ms Scully said it was hard to pinpoint in some cases whether mental health was a contributing factor in someone becoming homeless, or whether homelessness had affected that person's mental health. "Obviously homelessness itself creates a re-occurring trauma," she said. "A lot of the people we are seeing, more and more are coming in with an experience of childhood trauma." One issue cited by MQI is the difficulties faced by those who are homeless when trying to access community health teams because they do not have an address for correspondence. Ms Scully said two HSE community health teams work in Dublin but were underresourced and under pressure, meaning they had to focus on clients with "severe and enduring mental health issues". It means other clients can miss out, including those in emergency accommodation who can be dealing with substance abuse issues, relationship breakdown, feeling isolated and struggling to cope with the uncertainty of having no permanent home. "What we are seeing is people are not being cared for and their needs and not being met," she said, adding that this meant deteriorating mental health in some cases and a 'knock-on effect' of later access to already busy hospital emergency departments. She said the MQI team sometimes felt like it was engaging in 'firefighting' but that its work has had a positive impact on many clients, linking them with harm reduction services and GPs as well as offering therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy. MQI also hopes to roll out an anxiety management programme in the coming months to further benefit its clients. One person who has used the MQI mental health service said she was facing having to move house again in the coming months but had already successfully undergone an alcohol detox programme, was now completing a benzo withdrawal programme and was also on a methadone programme with the assistance of the MQI team. "I feel [like] a human being now," the woman said. "Half a year ago, I was not." The UK and Ireland have signed an agreement to protect the rights of both Irish and British citizens "in all circumstances" after Brexit. Tanaiste Simon Coveney and Theresa May's de facto deputy prime minister David Lidington signed the Memorandum of Understanding in London earlier today. It recommits to the existing Common Travel Area (CTA) arrangements and pledges that they will continue whether the UK leaves the EU with or without a deal. It means British and Irish citizens will not need to do anything to protect their existing status and rights after Brexit. We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Ireland reaffirming our joint commitment to the Common Travel Area, ensuring British and Irish citizens will continue to have the right to move freely in each country. Find out more: https://t.co/4cndL74wo4 pic.twitter.com/bcwb66sw67 Cabinet Office (@cabinetofficeuk) May 8, 2019 Citizens in both countries will continue to enjoy existing social security entitlements, while all citizens have access to all levels of education and training in either jurisdiction. Healthcare and immigration arrangements will also continue as normal. Minister Coveney said the signing of the new agreement marks an "important moment" for the Common Travel Area. He observed: "Many of us have personal experience of the CTA in our daily lives. This MOU demonstrates and confirms the commitment of both Governments to maintaining the CTA in all circumstances. "British citizens will continue to be able to travel freely, live, study, and work in Ireland into the future. "I welcome the similar commitment and welcome of the UK Government for Irish citizens in Britain." He added that the CTA also underpins the Good Friday Agreement "in all its parts". The Common Travel Area predates the two countries' membership of the EU, but arrangements between other member states and the UK will likely change somewhat once Brexit has taken place. While the withdrawal agreement between the EU and UK makes provisions to protect citizens' rights, MPs in the House of Commons have rejected the agreement several times. However, the UK government has previously insisted that EU citizens and their family members will be "welcome to stay in the UK in the unlikely event of a no deal scenario". A woman on trial accused of murder went to a garda station and said that she had killed her boyfriend, telling a garda: I stabbed him. I pushed the knife into him, come quick, a jury has heard. The court also heard that Inga Ozolina was "panicky and frantic" when she arrived at Roscrea Garda Station, dressed in a bathrobe and slippers, in the early hours of the morning. Garda Diarmuid O'Connor was giving evidence today in the Central Criminal Court trial of Ms Ozolina (48), who is charged with murdering her boyfriend Audrius Pukas (43) over two years ago in her Co Tipperary home. Ms Ozolina, originally from Latvia, but with an address at Old Court Church, Mounthrath, Co Laois has pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Pukas at The Malthouse, Roscrea, Co Tipperary, on November 20, 2016. The trial has previously heard that the accused and deceased were in a tempestuous and volatile relationship which was violent at times and the prosecution contends there is no question of self-defence in the case. Gda OConnor told prosecution counsel Paul Murray SC that Ms Ozolina called to the front door of Roscrea Garda Station at 2.30am on November 20. Gda OConnor said he went to the front door of the garda station and Ms Ozolina told him: Ive killed my boyfriend, come quick, come quick. I stabbed him. I pushed the knife into him, come quick. The witness testified that Ms Ozolina was panicky, frantic, anxious and upset at the time. I said to my colleagues that we may have a stabbing on our hands, he explained. Ms Ozolina followed him into the public office area of the station but he did not notice any blood on her hands, he said. Gda O'Connor said he left the station and followed Ms Ozolina to her apartment at The Malthouse. The witness said he observed Mr Pukas lying on his back in the downstairs bedroom and he was wearing only boxer shorts. There was blood around his stomach, he added. In cross-examination, defence counsel Caroline Biggs SC put it to the witness that the word stabbed did not appear in the second entry of his handwritten notes in his notebook. No, Im not sure if it's stabbed or stated, he replied. Ms Biggs further put it to Gda OConnor that his first notebook entry, concerning what Ms Ozolina had said to him when she entered the garda station, may not have been a "verbatim record". In my opinion it is an exact record of what she said, he replied. In re-examination, Gda OConnor agreed with Mr Murray that he had first recorded what Ms Ozolina had said to him in his notebook sometime after 2.36am on November 20, when he had arrived at the scene. Following this, Mr Murray asked Gda OConnor as to when he made the later note to himself, which was not a "verbatim account". "That was the 20th going into the 21st," he replied. Garda Grainne Tully gave evidence that she was in the public office of Roscrea Garda Station on the night of November 20 and told Mr Murray that she observed Ms Ozolina in a panicked state. Gda Tully testified that she was in the doctors room of Nenagh Garda Station later that night when the member in charge made a note of Ms Ozolinas injuries. There was a bite mark to her left forearm and upper arm, bruising to her left breast, bruising or a scratch mark to her left shoulder and left thigh, scratch marks on her ankles and dried blood on both knees, outlined Gda Tully. Under cross-examination by Ms Biggs, Gda Tully agreed that Ms Ozolina had asked gardai to call an ambulance for Mr Pukas. The witness further agreed that Ms Ozolina had been screaming in the patrol car outside her apartment with her head in her hands and was inconsolable and extremely agitated. In cross-examination, Garda Anthony Fahy agreed with Ms Biggs that he had a previous dealing with Ms Ozolina and Mr Pukas in connection with a domestic incident in June 2016. The accused and the deceased were both present when he arrived at the scene, Gda Fahy said, adding that Ms Ozolina informed him at the time that she had been previously in a relationship with Mr Pukas but they were no longer together. She had allowed him to stay in her apartment. However, Ms Ozolina now wanted Mr Pukas to leave her apartment, Gda Fahy said. Gda Fahy said Mr Pukas left the apartment but continued to act in an agitated fashion outside. The witness said he directed that Mr Pukas leave the vicinity and he enforced the Public Order Act. Gda Fahy further agreed with Ms Biggs that he was called to an incident in a house in Roscrea in October 2013, which involved Mr Pukas and another woman. Gda Fahy said he believed this other woman to be Mr Pukas wife or partner. Mr Pukas was intoxicated and the other woman was distressed with injuries to her face and blood coming from her crotch area, the court heard. The witness accepted that Mr Pukas was "arrogant" and he had asked him to leave the scene. Detective Garda Stuart Beatty told Mr Murray that he arrived at The Malthouse at 3.35am on November 20 and noted a smell of alcohol coming from Ms Ozolina. After arresting Ms Ozolina on suspicion of the murder of Mr Pukas, they drove to Nenagh Garda Station where she was deemed unfit to be interviewed for six hours, he said. The witness said that when Ms Ozolina was charged with assaulting Mr Pukas on November 21, she replied: I disagree with this charge, I did not assault this man. We did have a fight, I acted in self-defence. A file was sent to the DPP and Ms Ozolina was later charged with murdering Mr Pukas, the court heard. The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Alexander Owens and a jury of seven men and five women. Lyra McKee's partner has said that those who killed the woman she was going to marry are "no better than paedophiles". Miss McKee, 29, died as a result of injuries sustained when she was shot on Derrys Creggan estate on April 18. In an exclusive interview with Channel 4 News in England, Sara Canning reacts to the apologies from Saoradh and the New IRA, and reveals that she was supposed to get engaged today in Central Park. She also revealed that at Lyra's funeral she told British Prime Minister Theresa May that she had been "derelict in her duty to Northern Ireland" by saying abortion and gay marriage were a devolved matter. The British government, Ms Canning says, have to do better. She also took aim at Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley, and Northern Ireland's politicians Arlene Foster and Michelle O Neill, in a powerful and wide-ranging interview with Channel 4 News' Chief Correspondent Alex Thomson: On the night the journalist and published author was shot dead by a member of the New IRA, Ms Canning said: Its been almost three weeks. Ive not come to terms with it. I still expect to hear from her every morning. I expect to wake up beside her, and I dont. You know "The phone was out she was clicking away, she was texting, she was ringing. Shed gone into reporter mode. "We were only there in total eight minutes. Thats what the police have told us, from the minute we arrived, to the minute it happened, its eight minutes." Describing the moment Lyra was shot in the head, Sara thought originally that her partner had accidentally stumbled. She said: "Well, initially, I Lyra was clumsy, and I thought shed tripped over her own feet and I looked down, and I knew straight away that she hadnt tripped. "And then I noticed that she had a head wound and I put my hand to it and I started screaming for help. She then issued a message to the killers, saying they were "no better than paedophiles". Sara said: It was so indiscriminate. There was no regard for human life. Why are we protecting that? And if it is your child, I would be ashamed to have a child that had done that. Id be ashamed. "They took away an amazing person. Ive lost the person I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with. I was supposed to get engaged today in Central Park. Wed planned the rest of our lives together and in one split second some idiot with a gun took that away. She then revealed that Lyra had made lots of plans for the day she was supposed to get engaged. Sara said: She had planned a really elaborate proposal at a lake house, on the lake in Central Park. Which one of her best friends Kelsey has helped her plan. They had a pdf file and everything. Theyd gone, [into] really minute detail. "It was incredibly romantic, and she was such a thoughtful person. She put her heart and soul into everything for everybody. "She was always making sure that people were okay and wanted to make everything as perfect as she could. She was really good at planning. She wasnt great at keeping things a secret. But she was great at planning. She went on to say that the "mealy-mouthed apologies" by Saoradh and the New IRA were "absolutely pathetic". She said: "And then the mealy-mouthed apologies and back-tracking and absolutely pathetic statements that were issued by Saoradh the New IRA. You cant apologise for killing someone. You cant call it an accidental shooting. "You fire a gun at a crowd, thats not an accidental shooting. Youre aiming to shoot someone." "I mean, its ridiculous. Theyre not defending anyone. Theyre literally a scourge on their communities. Theyre a scourge. They are a scourge. She went on to claim that the dissidents are a danger to their local communities, since they are "grooming" them for a life of violence. She said: "What I would say is, and this might be heavy-handed, and people might speak out against it or whatever. But I dont really care they are grooming young men and women. "Theyre no better, they speak out about paedophile gangs, but theyre no better than paedophiles. "They literally take young people who are disenfranchised at the best of times, who are living in poverty, who dont see a future for themselves in Northern Ireland because there is literally very little here for them. "And they tell them that the way forward is a gun in their hand. The way forward is never a gun in your hand. Turning her anger towards politicians in the North, Ms Canning said she told Karen Bradley that she was doing a "pretty terrible job as the Secretary of State". She said: At that stage I had looked at who was in the room and I kind of saw red a little bit. So when I was speaking to Leo Varadkar, and I said you need to facilitate these people sitting down at a table. "And so Im putting my trust in you youre a world leader, and you have a presence here. You need to use it for good. "So when I turned from Leo Varadkar, it was Karen Bradley, Secretary of State. Karen Bradley offered her condolences and I accepted them graciously. And I wasnt rude. But I did tell her that she was doing a pretty terrible job as the Secretary of State. "Her lack of knowledge around Northern Ireland was appalling. She needed to go and educate herself. How on earth she had taken a job where she had no knowledge of the area" "She was very gracious I have to say. She nodded and she agreed with me that she had said things that were completely misguided and that shes gone and educated herself. Ms Canning used Mrs Bradley's comments on Bloody Sunday as an example of her appalling knowledge of the Troubles. Mrs Bradleys remarks in the Commons in March, that killings carried out by the police and military during the Troubles were not crimes, rather the actions of people fulfilling their duties in a dignified and appropriate way, sparked fury among some victims and political parties. Ms Canning said: "As a Derry woman, I had to say to her, to offer your condolences on Lyra when you have turned around and said that soldiers who indiscriminately opened fire in the Bogside on Bloody Sunday were doing their job in a dignified manner. "I said they are no different to the thug that opened fire in Creggan on Holy Thursday and shot Lyra. Ms Canning then expanded on how she told British Prime Minister Theresa May that she was neglecting her duties to the people of the North by not getting involved on issues around abortion and gay marriage. Sara said: So I basically told her that she was massively derelict in her duties to Northern Ireland and successive governments have [been]. Its not just been the Tory government. "To tell us that issues like gay marriage and abortion rights are a devolved matter is completely out of order. Were not a devolved state anymore. Were completely unsuccessful. "It has been shown that we cant work together so the British government has to be our government. And they have to be our voice and they have to do better. So, that was basically the message that I left with the Prime Minister. She finished by saying that politicians need to look beyond the red lines if they want to secure a stable future for the North. She said: What I want is, the leaders of the parties, they want broadly the same things. There are red lines and I think we need to look beyond red lines at the minute. Same-sex marriage and an Irish language act are important. "They are important dont get me wrong but whats more important is having a working government who are doing whats right for the people of Northern Ireland. Because we are, weve been left adrift. "Theres people missing out on operations and theres schools missing out on funding. Theres head teachers having to go out and buy toilet roll for their primary schools, because they dont have the funds to do that. A man found in a solicitors office claiming he was homeless and looking for somewhere to sleep has had his conviction for burglary and criminal damage quashed by the Court of Appeal. Robert Kane (41), with a last address on Dominick Street, in Dun Laoghaire, had denied burglary and criminal damage at the office of Patrick Morrissey and Co Solicitors, on Crofton Road, Dun Laoghaire, on February 3, 2017. Kane was found guilty by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and sentenced to three years imprisonment with the final six months suspended on June 22, 2017. However, the Court of Appeal quashed Kanes conviction today over the trial judges instructions to the jury concerning aspects of the defence case. The prosecution case was that Kane had broken into the premises as a trespasser with a view to committing an offence, most likely theft, while the defence case was that Kane was homeless and was looking for somewhere to sleep. Giving judgment in the three-judge court, Mr Justice John Edwards said gardai learned of a possible intruder at the solicitors office, which was situated on the second floor of the building, at approximately 8.45pm on the date in question. On arrival, they could hear noise coming from the solicitors office and could see glass on the carpet outside the door of the office, which was an internal door inside the building, and which was ajar. They shouted gardai and entered where they immediately encountered Kane, who was wearing distinctive orange gloves and a dark jacket. The jury were told that Kane was holding a screwdriver and what appeared to be some form of metal rod, but Kane denied this. One of the gardai noticed the office appeared to have been ransacked. There were drawers pulled out and papers in disarray. Kane was arrested and brought to Dun Laoghaire garda station where he initially provided an address but subsequently stated: No, Im homeless. Put me down as no fixed abode. Counsel for Kane, Kevin White BL, submitted that the trial judge erred in failing to adequately explain the defence case to the jury and undermined it. Mr White contended that Kane told gardai at the premises that he was homeless and that he showed them how he got in. Reliance was placed on the fact that nothing was apparently taken during the alleged burglary, the upper floors of the building were vacant, and it was easy to get in. The defence were anxious for the jury to hear about attempts to interview Kane while he was handcuffed to a chair, as a result of becoming violent, as well as the decision to press on with an attempt to interview him without his solicitor present, despite his requests. They said it was indicative of a generally hostile garda attitude towards him. The prosecution argued that it wasnt necessary to adduce any evidence concerning the interviews, because no substantive interview had in fact taken place. Rightly or wrongly, Mr Justice Edwards said, the jury were allowed to hear evidence concerning these aspects of the interview. The trial judge told the jury that nothing was said during Kanes garda interviews. He then told the jury that there had been no interview and no admissions. Mr Justice Edwards said the Court of Appeal was concerned the trial judge did not confine himself to saying that nothing of evidential value had resulted from the interviews. There was a concern the jury may have been left with the impression that in some way Kane was obliged to, or expected to, make admissions. There was simply no need to emphasise the fact there were no admissions, he added. He said the Court of Appeal had sympathy for the trial judge because it was the defence who sought to introduce what occurred in the interview room, and the trial judge was endeavouring to be fair and even handed. He said the issue was a finely balanced one but on balance, the trial judges instructions had the potential to mislead or confuse the jury. Furthermore, Mr Justice Edwards said the trial judges failure to allude to a major plank of the defence case created an unfairness. He said the defence laid particular emphasis on the sighting of a man in a khaki jacket passing by the front door of a ground floor premises, before the gardai arrived. The trial judges failure to allude to it was an error that created an unfairness in his summary of the defence case, Mr Justice Edwards said. It was an evidential basis for inviting the jury to consider whether the prosecution had excluded the possibility that another intruder had broken into the offices on the same evening, before Kane was apprehended, the judge said. He said the defence did not go into evidence, which was always going to be difficult to sustain. He said the defence, for the most part, adopted a strategy of seeking to test the prosecution case. Mr Justice Edwards, who sat with Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, said the court would allow the appeal. The case was put back to allow the DPP consider whether a retrial will be sought. The Lord Mayor of Cork has branded efforts to create a directly-elected mayor in Cork city as premature and warned that the addition of executive powers to the office could actually distance the role from the public. Independent Cllr Mick Finn made his comments on the plebiscite issue with just over two weeks to go before people will be asked to vote on whether they want a directly elected mayor with executive powers. If a new directly-elected position comes with extra funding, extra powers to influence decision-making at national level and has powers to shape the future of Cork, it would, of course, be fantastic to have such a powerful champion, Mr Finn said. However, such a position flies in the face of policy up to now which has diminished the role of local government, so Im not 100% certain of the raison detre behind the current move. People in Cork city, Limerick and Waterford will be asked to vote on May 24 - the same day as the local and European elections - on whether or not they favour the introduction of directly-elected mayors in their city. A citizens assembly will be established in Dublin to consider the question. If there is a yes vote, legislation will have to be passed before the first directly-elected mayoral elections, which are pencilled in for 2021. Mr Finn, who last June became the first independent councillor to don the historic chain of office in over 70 years, and only the second ever outside a political party since 1900, said the concept of directly-elected mayors is a good idea in theory but he said the current proposals need to be fleshed out. He said there is still widespread confusion at the doorsteps about what people are being asked to consider in the plebiscite. He also said he has real concerns that the extra workload associated with the addition of executive powers could make the position unworkable, and may even sever the links the office has today with citizens. As it stands, the role demands 10-12 hours, seven days a week and the placement of extra executive powers would make that totally unworkable, he said. There is no way the current position of Lord Mayor, which is so accessible to communities and individuals, could operate in the same way if executive powers were added to the role. The position of Lord Mayor belongs to the people of Cork as it stands and a government campaign for a directly-elected position may well push the position away from the communities it serves." Whoever would get such a position must be in a position to balance such a workload - building links with the people who keep our communities strong on the ground is as important as developing strategies for the growth of the city across all sectors. And given the boundary extension, he said the move to a directly-elected mayoral position with advisers is somewhat premature. Cork city is to undergo its largest boundary extension ever and many voters at present are uncertain as to whether they are county or city, or indeed which ward or electoral area they are in, he said. Central government should have deferred this idea to the next election which would have given the new city system time to bed in. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has reported that six Closure Orders and one Improvement Order were served on food businesses during the month of April. The orders were issued for breaches of food safety legislation, pursuant to the FSAI Act 1998, and the EC (Official Control of Foodstuffs) Regulations 2010. The Enforcement Orders were issued by HSE environmental health officers. One Closure Order was served under the FSAI Act 1998, on the Spicy Hut take away, Main Street, Carrigart, Donegal. Five Closure Orders were served under the EC (Official Control of Foodstuffs) Regulations 2010 on: Freestyle Asian Restaurant, 23-24 North Main Street, Cork Ceann Sibeal Hotel, Ballyferriter, Tralee, Kerry Pangan Taste of Asian restaurant, Unit 1, Block B, River Village, Monksland, Athlone, Roscommon Dragon Chinese take away, Main Street, Dunshaughlin, Meath Paud O'Neill's pub, Langford Street, Killorglin, Kerry One Improvement Order was served under the FSAI Act 1998 on Roma take away, Unit 3 Rathgael, Deansrath Shopping Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Some of the reasons for the Enforcement Orders in April included: Sewage and waste in the rear yard adjacent to refuse bins which risked a transfer of faecal matter to the kitchen; cigarette ash, butts and broken glass throughout the bar premises; mould growth on the internal surface of an ice making machine; dirty bar equipment including blackened beer taps; chopping boards for ready-to-eat foods worn and engrained with dirt; no hot running water at sinks to clean utensils; surfaces of all cooking equipment coated with congealed grease; and no food allergen information provided to the consumer. Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI emphasised that some food businesses are not providing adequate regard for their customers. The Enforcement Orders served in April were mainly due to premises being found to have poor and, in some cases, very low hygiene standards in place. Some of these premises have demonstrated a complete lack of concern for the health of both their customers and their staff who eat at or work in their establishments. "These inadequate food safety practices are completely unacceptable in any food business. File image. "In addition to the poor hygiene standards that were found, some premises also had no food allergen information available to the consumer which can pose a serious risk to peoples health. I would remind food businesses that the legal responsibility for producing safe food lies firmly with them. It is disappointing to see that some food businesses are failing to operate stringent food safety practices to ensure that the food they are producing and selling to their customers is safe to eat. Details of the food businesses served with Enforcement Orders are published on the FSAIs website here. Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe has defended his decision to overrule his own officials on the 3bn National Broadband Plan saying it was "the best decision available to the Government." It comes after the Government was warned that going ahead with the plan may mean cancelling other large capital projects. In an address to media, he said this evening that he considered issues including climate change and the gap likely to develop between citizens if one group has access to hi-speed broadband and one does not, in arriving at his decision. He said he made his decision to roll out a 3bn broadband plan "after a huge amount of work and a large amount of reflection". He said access to that kind of connectivity will be very important in how people access public services, in the future and his decision was made "for economic growth that's more inclusive". He said: "The roll-out of high-speed broadband is on balance, the best decision available to the Government "There is risk, there is complexity, but I believe that funding model is the best to deal with that risk." "Rolling out a form of technology like this to a million of our citizens...is an inherently risky and complex activity...If it was neither, the private sector would already have delivered this." He said projects outlined in the Government's Project 2040 plan would continue to go ahead, despite the costs of the broadband plan. He said the balance had been struck for the State in rolling out a new service and protecting the State from risk, and that, on balance, this was "the best decision available to the Government". The Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe said he had received lots of different advice in relation to the broadband issue, and that there had been "really robust debate". "My Department has a different view in relation to this" to his own view, he agreed. Paschal Donohoe said Secretary General of his department, Robert Watt, was "one of the most talented people I have ever worked with", and that he had been delighted to re-appoint him to his role in the department. He acknowledged that the decision to roll out the national broadband plan is one of the biggest of his career. Having weighed all the risks...I believe this is the right thing for us to do. The Department of Public Expenditure earlier warned social housing, health and education investment may have to be delayed or cancelled to fund the 3bn plan. The top public spending civil servant warned this would be the Government taking a leap of faith and opening the Government to unprecedented risk. The Dail was suspended earlier to allow time for the opposition to read new documents. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin questioned whether it is the right plan. He accused the Government of attempting to "spin its way out of any serious questions or accountability around the project". Sinn Fein's Mary Lou McDonald suggested that in a worst-case scenario billions of taxpayers' money will be "poured down a black hole". Communications Minister Richard Bruton, however, defended the decision to go ahead with the plan. He insisted: "This is a major decision to ensure that rural Ireland - including 1.1 million people - get equal access to a technology that is going to transform our lives. "It's already transforming our lives, and it's going to make a huge impact on rural communities." Documents published this afternoon show that public spending officials said it represents an "unprecedented risk" to the State. The correspondence shows the Department strongly warned against appointing the preferred bidder yesterday for the almost 3bn project. Officials were significantly concerned about cost and affordability. It warned about the impact on the National Development Plan and that some other capital projects may have to be shelved to afford the broadband plan. Officials called it an unprecedented risk to the exchequer - and recommended an alternative approach of incremental improvements in broadband. One document compiled by officials states: "Poor take-up of the service or emerging new technological solutions in this fast moving market could leave the State having funded a stranded, or potentially obsolete asset - an asset that the State will not even own, despite investing up to 3 billion in it. "We believe that significant progress can be made with an alternative affordable approach, with strong deliverables possible in the short-medium term within the context of a more realistic and affordable budget (of, say, 1bn), prioritising completing critical investments in the short term." Robert Watt, Secretary General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, also expressed his concerns in a letter to Mark Griffin his counterpart in the Department of Communications. The letter warns committing to the plan would be a major "leap of faith" by the Government. Mr Watt highlighted the "unprecedented risk that the State is being asked to bear in the event that the current NBP contract is recommended for approval by Government". Devastating criticisms from Robert Watt, Secretary General at Dept PER about National Broadband Plan #iestaff pic.twitter.com/fuccDmpywF Daniel McConnell (@McConnellDaniel) May 8, 2019 In response, Mr Griffin defended the plan, insisting that his department had carried out "rigorous analysis over the past three years to show that the project is complaint with the Public Spending Code." He insisted the broadband project is "very different" from the National Children's Hospital - which has experienced major cost overruns - and that a "robust budget model" had been developed to reflect construction and revenue risks. Meanwhile, Mr Watt also told Finance and Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe that officials "strongly recommended against the plan on grounds of cost, affordability, value for money and risk". He further suggested that the procurement process should be cancelled. Minister Donohoe ultimately overruled the concerns and recommended Cabinet approve the plan. He said he believes on balance that the benefits outweigh the concerns of spending officials. Under the plan approved yesterday, there will be 3bn of State subvention for a private company to roll out broadband to 540,000 homes and businesses in rural areas. The first new homes will be connected in 2020 - but thousands of others may have to wait years to be on the grid. Over 350 nurses and midwives are meeting for the INMOs Annual Delegate Conference today in Trim, Co Meath. The conference which is to last until Friday marks the organisation's 100th year. Delegates will debate topics including, implementing the outcome of the recent industrial dispute, violence against nurses and midwives, language requirements for nurses and midwives from overseas, safe staffing levels, reducing the health services environmental footprint. The conference will be addressed by Minister for Health, Simon Harris, on Friday. Minister Simon Harris. A Century of Service, a new book by author and nurse Mark Loughrey, charting the history of the INMO will also be launched. The theme of this years conference is 'Reflecting on the Past, Navigating the Present, Modelling for the Future'. INMO General Secretary, Phil Ni Sheaghdha, said: It has been an extremely busy year for our members and organisation. "From a successful and safe strike to marking our centenary, the INMOs focus is clearly on implementing the recent Labour Court recommendations and building our professions for the future. INMO President, Martina Harkin-Kelly, said: The theme of this years conference is all about reflecting on our past and looking to the future. The chief executive of the Rehab group, Mo Flynn has defended the organisations decision to announce that it will withdraw services unless it receives more funding from the HSE. This is a very difficult period. We profoundly regret that we find ourselves in this position, she told RTE radios Morning Ireland. The organisation now finds itself in a funding crisis that only the Government can resolve, she said. This is a sector-wide issue. It was never our intention to use vulnerable people. We are taking this action to save services for people. Ms Flynn said that Rehab had been talking to the HSE for three years about their funding difficulties without success. She hopes that now that the Minister for Health is involved a resolution can be found. She pointed out that last July Rehab had warned that this decision (to withdraw services) would be made if funding was not found and they had again informed the HSE in April. Unfortunately it wasnt until the eleventh hour that they engaged with us. Ms Flynn said that as an organisation Rehab has changed and is now completely transparent with regard to costs. Rehab is a changed organisation since 2014 with a new board and a new management team. We operate as a charity and we recognise our responsibility to the public. She acknowledged that there is a commercial element to their work, but said that commercial activities were only to provide training opportunities for people with disabilities. A religious teacher jailed for molesting a young student at a Dublin mosque has had his 14-month jail term increased to four-and-a-half years by the Court of Appeal. Abdur Rashid (51), with an address at Blessington Court, in Dublin, had denied sexually assaulting the six-year-old girl during religious instruction at the mosque on a date in December 2015. The Bangladeshi national was found guilty by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, with the final four months suspended, by Judge Pauline Codd last November. The Director of Public Prosecutions sought a review of Rashids sentence on grounds that it was unduly lenient, and the Court of Appeal agreed today. Giving judgment in the three-judge court, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy said Rashid was a teacher in the mosque providing religious instruction to children, including the victim. He said Rashid kissed the girl in an adult manner, placed his hands under her clothing, and touched the genital area. The victims mother confronted Rashid, who denied knowing anything about it. He made certain admission to gardai, which he subsequently rowed back on, and pleaded not guilty for a three-day trial, in which the victim was cross-examined. Counsel for the DPP, Peter Le Vert BL, submitted that the sentencing judge erred in placing the offence at the lower end of the scale of seriousness. Mr Le Vert said the skin-to-skin contact and the fact Rashid was in a position of authority firmly placed the offence in the mid-range. Furthermore, there was no guilty plea and no expression of remorse, counsel added. Mr Justice McCarthy said the offence was of considerable gravity. He said the young girl became traumatised by the incident. She had nightmares, required counselling, and was diagnosed as suffering from anxiety. She was afraid she would contract a disease from the kiss and that Rashid would remove her from school. The offence also had an adverse affect on the victims family, particularly the girls mother, the judge added. Mr Justice McCarthy said the mitigating factors were modest. He said Rashid had been living in Ireland since 2001, had a history of work and had no relevant previous convictions. Whether by coincidence or design, Mr Justice McCarthy said Rashid developed a number of mental health issues a year after the offence. He said a consultant psychiatrist at the Central Mental Hospital found Rashid to have been malingering when examined, and concluded that he did not have any psychiatric illness at that time. The Court of Appeal found the sentencing judge to have erred in selecting two years as the pre-mitigation headline sentence. Mr Justice McCarthy, who sat with Mr Justice John Edwards and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, said five-and-a-half years was the appropriate starting point, with a one year discount for the mitigating factors. The court did not suspend any portion of the sentence, but directed two years post-release supervision. Rashid was immediately taken into custody. U[date - 12.10pm: Minister of State John Halligan has added his voice to calls for an independent investigation into mortuary facilities at University Hospital Waterford as the journalist who broke the story tells of six families who have raised concerns. He told local radio station WLR that at no point were Oireachtas members told of the concerns of consultants or of the letter sent by consultants to the HSE. The way the HSE have handled the concerns is just wrong. The only way out of this is to have an independent inquiry. Mr Halligan said he was glad the Taoiseach had issued his apology, it was the correct thing to do, this is a highly sensitive issue, and he caused upset by his initial remarks, there's no question about that. As the story is unfolding it has become more shocking and horrifying, and I think it now lays weight to the necessity of having an independent inquiry, I think we should go to the health committee first of all, an independent inquiry will take much longer, but at least get this into the health committee, bring all the interested bodies to see where we are with this. There's no question we need to have this investigated further. At no point were Oireachtas members told about the letter from the consultants on the very serious concerns. The key issues are the urgent need for a new mortuary and also the way the HSE have handled the complaints was wrong, this is why I think the only way out of this now is for an independent inquiry. I don't think anything else is acceptable. Meanwhile, on RTE radios Today with Sean ORourke show, the journalist who first broke the story, Darren Skelton of the Waterford News and Star, said he had been contacted by six families who were concerned about facilities at the mortuary. I've personally had six contacts from families. One person said he identified a body on a corridor, three people have said that they had closed casket funerals and were just told that there was an issue post mortem or they weren't given a reason at all. He said that the decision by the Office of the State Pathologist to move post mortems from Waterford to Dublin was expected once the details of conditions at the mortuary had been revealed by the four consultants. When news got out it put the State Pathologist in a very difficult position, they had to make the decision to protect the integrity of the office. It's a decision that completely vindicates what the pathologists in Waterford were saying, as soon as it went public this was always going to happen." The journalist said that people working in the hospital are very angry with the hospital group and also the hospital manager. She came out and basically rubbished the claims made in the letter. The story is not going away. The Taoiseach apologised so why can't the Hospital Group and why can't the hospital manager? He added that the four consultants feel vindicated by State Pathologist decision and say the only reason they are staying in situ is they don't want to discommode families. That's the situation that happens all the time. I've spoken to doctors and nurses who would love to just walk out because of the conditions they're working in, but don't because of concern for patients and their families. Earlier: Waterford mortuary temporarily shut amid 'reports of bodies decomposing on hospital trolleys'' Sinn Fein TD for Waterford David Cullinane has claimed that two families have lodged complaints about conditions at the mortuary in University Hospital Waterford. I know that two complaints have now been made and that's obviously very serious. Only in the last couple of days one family came forward, one family was in my office and I advised them to go make a complaint and these are very, very serious complaints that are now being made, he told RTE radios Morning Ireland. Yesterday the State Pathologists Office announced that it will not use the mortuary at Waterford University Hospital for the time being as a result of the controversy over its condition. Management have to examine all these complaints, there is a need now for a full independent examination. We obviously need a new mortuary, that's the priority but we also need to establish all of the facts. How long has this been happening and why was it allowed to happen for so long? A spokesman for the South/South West Hospital Group said it had not been informed of the State Pathologists decision. I contacted the State Pathologists office yesterday, I was able to find out by email and yet the hospital management and the hospital group are in the dark, and they knew this was coming down the tracks, they must have known this was coming down the tracks, added Mr Cullinane. The four consultants penned the letter last October of last year to the CEO of the South/South West Hospital Group, it wasn't until March of this year that the group responded to what were very serious claims, so we're calling for a full independent examination of all of these claims. How did it take five months for a response from the HSE? He said that people had been shocked and scandalised when they heard reports about what was happening at the mortuary. University Hospital Waterford. Photo: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie. We had reports of bodies decomposing on hospital trolleys, unfortunately, some loved ones were not able to be waked in open caskets, bodies on the floor of the mortuary. So it is no surprise that this move (by the State Pathologists Office) has been made, because we have to avoid risk and contamination as well, so I don't have a problem with this decision, but I do have a problem that the Government knew in 2004, and the HSE knew, that there was a need for a new mortuary, it was approved in 2013 and we're still waiting for a new mortuary. We're still waiting for the tendering process to commence for a new building and what we need is a new mortuary very quickly, to restore confidence for the people of Waterford and for the people of the South East. Questions have to be asked how long was this happening at the mortuary in Waterford? "How many bodies were left decomposing on hospital trolleys and we've also been told that no family was every told of the circumstances at the mortuary." If that was your loved one who had passed away, who was left on the ground in a mortuary, left on a trolley, the body decomposing. "I would imagine you would want to know the full circumstances of what happened. A Dublin credit union employee who stole up to 395,000 over a decade from the lender has been jailed for 18 months. The court heard Susan Redmond (aged 50) had worked at Larkhill and District Credit Union in Dublin for 20 years and began taking out false loans on members' accounts in 2003. Redmond completed and signed loan applications and then issued cheques, which she cashed. Detective Garda Dominic McGrath revealed that Redmond's colleagues noticed irregularities on accounts while she was on holidays and this launched an extensive investigation. Redmond, of Thornville Drive, Kilbarrack, Dublin affirmed signed guilty pleas at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 10 sample charges of stealing from the credit union on dates from July 3, 2003, to April 26, 2013. Det. Gda McGrath said this sample represented 102 theft charges. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Redmond to three years imprisonment on each count, but suspended the final 18 months of each sentence on strict conditions. She ordered that all sentences will run concurrently with each other. At an earlier sentence hearing, Det. Gda McGrath told Barry Ward BL, prosecuting, that the 40 account holders affected by Redmond's thefts were her friends and family and that they were all reimbursed by the credit union. He said none of them made statements to gardai. The detective said investigators were able to see money moving in and out of Redmond's bank account over the period, but it was not clear what she was spending on. He said in some instances she was taking out more false loans to pay back previous false loans. The detective agreed with Justin McQuade BL, defending, that this was an unsophisticated fraud and that Redmond had nothing to show for it. He further agreed Redmond had lost a job she took up after leaving the credit union because of publicity while the case was in the District Court. Det. Gda McGrath said luck had a part to play as previous audits at the credit union had not been carried out on the accounts Redmond was using. He told Judge Greally that he didn't believe any of the account holders affected had been complicit. He said investigators couldn't find any purchases like a car, holidays or expensive jewellery in Redmond's records. He said the mother-of-one told gardai she couldn't identify one sizeable purchase she ever made and that the money went on day-to-day things. Redmond's sister, Collette Clarke, told Mr McQuade that their family was close-knit and that she saw no huge warning signs. Ms Clarke said she noticed Redmond buying clothes and spending on hair and make-up, but thought the expenses were going on credit cards or coming out of a loan. This witness told Judge Greally that her credit union account was among those affected. She said Redmond had issued a false loan of 20,000 without her knowledge on this account just before the fraud came to light. Michael Dempsey, a clinical psychologist, told Mr McQuade that Redmond was a vulnerable woman who fit the criteria for compulsive buying disorder and was severely depressed. He added that her son was very dependent on her and that she had been in difficult romantic relationships. Mr McQuade told Judge Greally that Redmond had 20,000 in court as a token of remorse. He said that the credit union was insured against theft and that Liberty Insurance was pursuing civil proceedings against his client. Judge Greally said the case was aggravated by the number of thefts, the extremely lengthy period of offending, the breach of trust and the fact that Redmond was issuing loans in the name of friends and family who were theoretically liable to repay them. She said the mitigating factors were Redmond's pleas of guilty, her extensive co-operation, her personal circumstances, her mental health history, her son being heavily dependent on her, her offering 20,000 towards the loss and that she will be pursued in civil proceedings. A 46-year-old former journalist has been found not guilty by reason of insanity of murdering her flatmate in their South Dublin home. Mercy Peters had told gardai that voices in her head made her stab the 42-year-old. The Sierra Leone native went on trial at the Central Criminal Court on Tuesday, charged with murdering Tyrone McKenna on July 17, 2014, at the house they had shared in Marlay Court, Rathfarnham. She pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The trial heard that both the accused and deceased had a history of mental health problems and had first met in a psychiatric ward in 2010. They became friends and were living with Mr McKennas father, Tom McKenna, at the time of the killing. Tom McKenna went out for a walk that Thursday afternoon, returning home to find his son lying on his back at the bottom of the stairs. He appeared motionless. Mr McKenna went to the kitchen, where the accused appeared unfazed and unconcerned. He rang for an ambulance and, while waiting, noticed blood in different locations, particularly upstairs. The deceased had no pulse when the ambulance crew arrived, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. A post-mortem exam later gave the cause of death as a stab wound to the trunk, which collapsed his left lung and injured his left kidney. A stab wound to the left forearm was a contributory factor. This might have been a so-called defensive injury, and several bruises and abrasions may have been caused by a scuffle. While the ambulance crew was in the house, the accused said that she was going to the shops. However, the crew asked her to stay until the gardai arrived. Gardai found her sitting on a sofa, listening to music on headphones. There appeared to be blood staining on a tobacco pouch on the coffee table in front of her. She told them that shed heard a thud but hadnt gone to find out what it was. She was taken to Dundrum Garda Station to provide a witness statement. As her home was now a crime scene, the gardai organised food and a hotel room for her. However, she didnt want to go and requested to stay in the station overnight. A garda noticed her talking to herself and counting on her fingers the following morning. When asked, she said she was talking to her spirits. She again declined the offer of accommodation before telling another garda that she wanted to leave. I want to see Mary Lou McDonald, she said. I want to change my statement. I stabbed Tyrone McKenna and the voices in my head made me do it. She later said that she needed to get her stuff. I have a knife in my bag that I used to stab him. My fingerprints will be on it, she said. Im off my medication. Thats why I stabbed Tyrone. The court heard that she behaved quite strangely and was erratic in her interviews, and was difficult to follow at times. She made references to being monitored, and to the deceased being put up to it by politicians and monarchs. Most nights, they would make use of spiritual guides, she said. She said that stabbing him was self defence from all the hassle he brought from monarchs from Africa and Ireland. When brought to court to be charged with murder, she shouted: I stabbed that man with full knowledge of what I was doing, and No psychiatric assessment. She was so agitated that she had to be carried out of the courtroom. Gardai searched the house and found a black-handled knife inside a handbag. The DNA profile in the blood on both the knife and tobacco pouch matched that of the deceased. Professor Aiden Corvin, a consultant psychiatrist attached to St James Hospital, testified on behalf of the defence. He said that she had been diagnosed with schizophrenia, which he described as a severe, enduring mental disorder. He said that she had delusional beliefs about the Government, the CIA and MI5 and had believed that she was being tracked by satellites and bugs. He said that at the time of the alleged offence, she was having an acute, severe episode, did not know the nature and quality of the act and wouldnt have known right from wrong. He said that she had heard the voice of her dead mother compelling her to commit this act. It would have been irresistible at this time, he said, confirming that she met the criteria required for the special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. Dr Sally Linehan, Consultant forensic psychiatrist at the Central Mental Hospital (CMH), testified on behalf of the State. She said that Ms Peters symptoms were most consistent with schizoaffective disorder, the core features of which were psychotic episodes with delusions. She was also satisfied that she was suffering from a mental disorder at the time of the alleged offence and didnt understand that what she was doing was wrong. She said that it had occurred in the context of a severe episode, when she was hearing the voices of her mother and sister. She would have felt that her actions were justified and would not truly have understand that they were wrong, she said. Her judgement was so impaired that she was unable to refrain from committing the act. She said that she, therefore, fulfilled the criteria for a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. Paul Burns SC, prosecuting, told the jury today that it was not disputed that Ms Peters had killed the deceased. He said in his closing speech that the issue for the jury was whether she met the criteria for the special verdict to which she had pleaded. If you come to the conclusion on the balance of probabilities that she does, then the verdict you should return is not guilty by reason of insanity, he said. He explained that he was there on behalf of the prosecution, but not to get a conviction at any cost. He reminded the jury that both experts had given the opinion that Ms Peters was suffering from a mental disorder at the time of the killing, such that she satisfied the criteria for the special verdict. Michael OHiggins SC, defending, said that his client was from a high-achieving family. The court had already heard that she had worked as a journalist with a daily newspaper in Freetown. Mr OHiggins noted in his closing speech that the family had fled Sierra Leone during the war and that she had came to Ireland as a refugee. She was integrating herself into this society, working closely with other refugees, he said, referring to her roles with a number of organisations. He noted that she had become very ill mentally in 2009 and had been diagnosed with a schizophrenic-type illness by 2011. It was managed with medication, depot medication, where youd receive an injection, he said, explaining that this would restore the necessary chemical balance for a month at a time. She wasnt a danger to herself or anyone else, providing that regime was kept up, he continued. There were times when that regime was not kept up, including on this occasion. When the medication is not taken, the illness tends to manifest itself, in this case in a very, very severe form. He described both his client and the deceased as very vulnerable people. She was living in a version of reality that did not accord with what was taking place around her, he said. She was full of delusions and there was this complex persecutory situation in which she had a fixed, false basis for believing certain things, which people in the full of their mental health would never conceive. He said that this had, tragically, resulted in Mr McKenna being stabbed. Mr Justice Michael White explained that the jury was considering a special verdict in the context of the Criminal Law Insanity Act. He read from the Act, which states that where a jury, having heard evidence from a consultant psychiatrist, finds that: the accused was suffering at the time from a mental disorder, and either did not know the nature and quality of the act, or did not know it was wrong, or was unable to refrain from committing it, the jury shall return a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. If youre satisfied that shes entitled to rely on the defence of insanity, you should bring in a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity, he said, explaining that the defence had to prove this on the balance of probabilities. I cannot dictate to you the verdict. He said the obvious alternative verdict was guilty. Its open for you to record it, but its not really a situation where the evidence would dictate that, he added. You wouldn't be acting in accordance with the evidence, so that verdict would in fact be perverse. Following 23 minutes of deliberations, the jury of eight men and two women returned with a unanimous verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. Justice White thanked the jury and expressed the courts deepest sympathy to Mr McKennas family. Sometimes during a trial, we lose sight of the tragedy, he said. Every human life is special and Im sure Tyrone McKennas was very special to the great number of his family who have turned out. He committed Ms Peters to the CMH. He adjourned the case to 21st May for an examination of her there and preparation of a report for court. Hollywood actor George Clooney has revealed he and his wife, Amal, spent Easter Sunday with U2s frontman Bono at his home in Dublin. Clooney, who has starred in movies such as upcoming Catch 22, Money Monster and Oceans Twelve, also plans to return to Ireland next year following a brief visit to meet his Irish cousins for the first time over the Easter break. The planned family get-together was organised by his parents, renowned broadcaster Nicholas (85) and his writer wife Nina (80). Speaking on the US TV network abc with host Jimmy Kimmel on Tuesday night, Clooney explained he went to Bonos home in Killiney. "As you do. We try to only do Easter with rock stars and enjoyed our time there. It was a beautiful day. Ireland is spectacular. His human rights lawyer wife Amal and their two-year-old twins Alexander and Ella travelled with him. The family reunion was hosted at the five-star award-winning luxury hotel Ballyfin House in Co Laois. "We spent the afternoon trying to understand what they were saying," he said before making a joke about leprechauns and Lucky Charms. "We walked into this castle, and I thought 'Wow, the Clooneys are doing alright over here. (But) no, it was a hotel. I thought it was theirs. I walked into the hotel and was thinking 'woah - shit we shouldn't have left'. The 58-year-old, who celebrated his birthday on Monday, spoke further about meeting his relatives in Ballyfin. He said he originally planned to visit Ireland with his mum and dad to meet up with relatives. However, he revealed his father couldn't travel because he had to have surgery on a hernia brought on by 300 sit-ups daily. Jimmy asked George what it was like meeting relatives who could also be strangers. George's relatives hail from the counties of Laois and Kilkenny. "It was odd but there is this other part of you which you do feel this weird connection to when you can see some connection in the eyes," he said. The Clooneys also had dinner with U2 frontman Bono and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar on Good Friday. In 2005 an American genealogist discovered George Clooneys Irish roots in Windgap, Co Kilkenny and Abbeyleix, Co Laois resulting in his parents visiting 12 years ago. The Clooneys have Irish heritage on both sides of the family, though most significantly on the paternal side. His fathers great-great-grandfather Nicholas Clooney emigrated to the US from Co Kilkenny. George's relative, Sarah Clooney, who was born in Abbeyleix and died a few years ago, worked in a factory in the town which made carpets for the Titanic. Building materials company CSR has called for action on energy prices as it blamed rising electricity costs for a lacklustre financial result. CSR announced on Wednesday that its full year net profit after tax had more than halved in the last financial year falling 59 per cent to $78 million even as revenue lifted four per cent to $2.32 billion. Net profit after tax from continuing operations ($181.7 million) was slightly lower than market expectations ($183 million) and just above the bottom end of the company's guidance. The part-owner of the Tomago smelter in NSW said its aluminium operation's earnings were down 54 per cent on last year to $36.6 million due to higher energy prices and its electricity provider AGL passing on that cost. He was studying at West Virginia University in Morgantown, which is known for its research on auto emissions, when the director of his program asked him to complete a grant application from the International Council on Clean Transportation. The council, a nonprofit group, wanted to test the emissions of German diesel cars sold in America. Kappanna was pursuing a doctorate and his proposal helped the university win a modest $US70,000 grant. The university planned a real-time test of emissions and it rigged up an ingenious way to scrutinize the exhaust generated under open-road conditions. The standard practice was to test cars in specially equipped garages, which is much easier than trying to analyze fumes from a moving vehicle. Kappanna and two other graduate students, Marc Besch from Switzerland and Arvind Thiruvengadam from India, were chosen to do the fieldwork. They bolted portable emissions-testing equipment to a sheet of plywood and crammed it into the back of a Volkswagen diesel station wagon. The rig, powered by a portable gasoline generator, was noisy and smelly, but with every mile, it churned out data that challenged sticker-price assurances. The emissions were dirtier than anyone would have imagined. Kappanna and his fellow students did not know it, but they were gathering evidence of a crime. Volkswagen engineers had devised defeat device software that could recognize the standardized procedure used by regulators in their testing labs. In the labs, the software dialled up a car's pollution controls. Loading But when officials were not looking or, more important, when the cars were being used by regular motorists, the software dialed down to save wear and tear on the fragile emissions-control equipment. Volkswagen never expected anyone, much less a group of graduate students, to test the cars on the highway, when the defeat device would not work. Kappanna, Besch and Thiruvengadam documented that Volkswagens polluted far more than regulations allowed when they were driven on highways and city streets. In March 2014, Besch presented the findings at a conference for emissions experts in San Diego. Their paper did not directly accuse Volkswagen of wrongdoing. But the data it included raised red flags for officials with the California Air Resources Board and the EPA who were in the audience. The regulators began an investigation that, 18 months later, forced Volkswagen to confess that it had installed the cheating software in 11 million diesel cars worldwide, including almost 600,000 in the United States. The inquiry called attention to the health hazards of diesel fuel and spurred consumers to shun the technology. Today, two former Volkswagen executives are serving prison terms in the United States for their roles in trying to cover up the emissions fraud. Martin Winterkorn, Volkswagen's former chief executive, faces criminal charges in the United States and Germany for his alleged role in the scheme. He has denied wrongdoing. The 'Dieselgate' scandal cost VW billions. Credit:AP The market share of diesel cars in Europe, once the most popular engine option in the region, was only 31 per cent in March, the lowest level since 2000, according to data compiled by JATO Dynamics, a research firm. Ironically, Kappanna's most recent position at GM involved complying with tougher disclosure requirements that the EPA imposed on carmakers after the Volkswagen scandal. Kappanna is proud of his role in unmasking Volkswagen's wrongdoing, but he also wonders whether he was seen within GM as overly zealous about compliance and too friendly to regulators. Loading "Certainly they could have seen me as biased," he said. "I can't really say." GM said this week that Kappanna's dismissal "was not related to any emissions compliance concerns or related issues." That he was not a US citizen also played no role, GM said in an emailed statement. Whatever the reason, Kappanna and other GM workers arrived at work in Milford on February 4 to find notices taped to conference room doors: The rooms had been reserved for human resources meetings. Kappanna soon received a phone call from the director of his division to meet him in one of the rooms. "I felt it even before I stepped into the room," Kappanna said about the loss of his job. GM let Kappana go in February and he remains in India, looking to return to the US. Credit:Bloomberg He turned in his company laptop and a security guard escorted him out of the building. He was one of three people let go in a department of about 50. Colleagues, he said, reassured him that his dismissal was "one of those shortsighted decisions taken to meet the numbers." "It was completely wrong on the part of leadership," he said they had told him. Still, when his co-workers invited Kappanna for a farewell beer that evening, he declined. With plane crashes making headlines over the weekend, one in Florida with no fatalities and another in Russia that killed dozens, travellers might question whether flying has become less safe. Aviation experts regard the recent incidents as a statistical blip, however, pointing out that such accidents and fatalities are a fraction of what they were as recently as the 1990s. Advances in aircraft and airport design, better air traffic control, and improved pilot training are often cited as factors in reducing accidents. Rescue workers comb the scene of the Ethiopian Airlines crash. Nearly half of the airline deaths in 2018 and 2019 occurred during the two Boeing 737 Max crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia. Credit:AP "I don't think we'll ever get to zero accidents, but aviation is still the safest it's ever been," said Seth Young, director of the aviation program at Ohio State University. THE HUSTLE (M) 93 minutes Melissa McCarthy and Emily Blunt and might have been able to summon up the chutzpah to carry off the odd couple partnership at the centre of The Hustle, but for Rebel Wilson and Anne Hathaway it's a struggle. Rebel Wilson stars as Penny Rust and Anne Hathaway as Josephine Chesterfield in The Hustle. Credit:Universal The basic scenario had its first screen incarnation as Bedtime Story in 1964, when Marlon Brando was taking an ill-advised foray into comedy after making a hit of his role as Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls. He played the role of a clownish conman who teams up with another scam artist a characteristically suave David Niven in an attempt to relieve rich women of their money. The film was then remade in a more sprightly style as Dirty Rotten Scoundrels by Frank Oz, with Steve Martin and Michael Caine. Now we have Wilson and Hathaway doing a reprise in line with the faintly feminist trend that has recently produced female versions of Ghostbusters and Oceans Eleven. Labor is bracing for an escalating assault from News Corp and fears further attacks in the final days of the election campaign after a furious Bill Shorten savaged Rupert Murdoch's company over its reporting of his mother's life and career. Mr Shorten and his senior colleagues accused the media empire of being a "cheer squad" for Prime Minister Scott Morrison and cited its use of tax havens in the Cayman Islands as one reason it wanted to stop Labor taking power on May 18. Labor deputy leader Tanya Plibersek said the company was trying to block funding increases for schools and hospitals while protecting "tax loopholes". "I wonder if that's got anything to do with the fact that Rupert Murdoch and his companies pay little or no tax in Australia? It could be something to do with the fact that News [Corp] has paid very little tax in Australia in recent years," Ms Plibersek said. Childcare centres are warning Labors plan to give staff taxpayer-funded pay rises could force them to close or restructure their businesses, with government modelling showing operators could be hit with $591 million in additional payroll taxes. Providers will pay increased payroll tax under the plan unless Labor can negotiate an exemption with the state governments that collect it, setting up a showdown with state leaders and treasurers during the first months of any Shorten government. Government modelling obtained by Nine News, The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age shows 5,215 small providers will be pushed over the payroll tax thresholds for the first time under the Labor proposal. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has vowed to deliver up to 100,000 early childcare workers a pay rise of 20 per cent over the next eight years in a bid to lift the industrys low hourly rate and attract more staff. Terri Butler, Labor's sitting MP in Brisbane's inner-city seat of Griffith, has been accused of snubbing the only candidates' debate organised for her seat before the federal election. Ms Butler was not alone in brushing off the organisers of the debate, staged by the West End Community Association. The LNP's candidate Olivia Roberts, One Nation's Julie Darlington, Christian Julius from Clive Palmers United Australia Party and Tony Murray from Fraser Anning's Conservative National Party all ignored the debate. Neither the LNP, Labor, One Nation or Clive Palmer's United Australia Party or Fraser Anning's candidate Tony Murray came to the Griffith candidates debate. Credit:Tony Moore Ms Butler stayed at home on Tuesday night to make phone calls to constituents instead of attending the debate at Souths Leagues Club in West End, her campaign manager Peter Allen confirmed. In a statement read out to the crowd of about 80 to 90 somewhat-stunned voters, Ms Butler said she was too busy "fighting the Tories" to attend. The greatest friction in the third leaders' debate of this election campaign came when the contrast between Scott Morrison and Bill Shorten reached its peak. The Prime Minister was needling the Opposition Leader over his $32.1 billion change to negative gearing when the debate turned into a bigger question over the choice at this election. Morrison had found an effective way to play on the doubts about Shortens policy. Given a chance by moderator Sabra Lane to challenge his rival, he asked Shorten whether he could guarantee his changes would not push up rents and push down house prices. While Shorten argued that economic analysis showed there would be no harm to prices, he stopped short of a guarantee. Rightly angry at a tawdry personal attack, Bill Shorten has just told Australians exactly what drives him to seek the nations top job. Voters who wondered what motivates Shorten to aspire to be prime minister now have their answer in the most compelling single point of the election campaign so far. Shorten was provoked into the most personal and powerful moment of the campaign the moment when his voice choked and his eyes filled with tears at the memory of his mothers unrealised ambitions. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has defended the legacy of his mother, Ann, at an emotional press conference in Nowra. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Shortens family story has been told before but he conveyed it with far greater meaning and impact in a press conference in Nowra to respond to the suggestion that he had somehow misled voters about his mother, Ann. Hardline inner-city anti-vaxxers are a lost cause and the focus needs to be on uncertain parents, health minister Steven Miles said. Mr Miles said irresponsible celebrities and uneducated people on social media posed a challenge in convincing those on the fence to get their children vaccinated against preventable diseases. Health Minister Steven Miles has slammed online anti-vaxxers. Credit:AAP There is a section of the community who identify as being opposed to vaccinations and are very difficult to convince to get vaccinated and get their kids vaccinated, he said. Our focus has to be on the people in between who might just be uncertain or who might just be disorganised. Former Ipswich mayor Andrew Antoniolli dishonestly used council funds for bids at charity auctions, his trial has been told. Mr Antoniolli, 48, is charged with 12 counts of fraud and one count of attempted fraud for allegedly using Ipswich City Council money to buy items and services for his own use. Former Ipswich mayor Andrew Antoniolli and his wife Karina arrive at the Magistrates Court in Ipswich. Credit:AAP The charges come after a Crime and Corruption Commission investigation that led to the sacking of the entire council in 2018. Mr Antoniolli allegedly used the council funds to purchase items at charity auctions and community events between 2005 and 2017, while he was a division seven councillor and mayor. The man reported missing after a music festival in southern Queensland where two people died has been found safe with his family - but not where police initially thought. Bradley Smith, 37, was reported missing on April 23 after not returning home to Nanango, a South Burnett town west of the Sunshine Coast, from the Rabbits Eat Lettuce festival over the Easter long weekend. Police and others searched for Bradley James Smith for a week after he didn't return from the festival. Credit:Facebook Festival organisers said he was last seen 17 kilometres down the road on foot. A Queensland Police Service spokesman said the man was found safe and well with family in the Bunya Mountains, south-west of Nanango, overnight. A major overhaul of Brisbanes biodiversity mapping, which influences property development, has been sent by Brisbane City Council to the state government for approval. The biodiversity overlay are citywide maps of vegetation that is endangered or needed for wildlife such as koala, and affects property development across the city. Bushland across Brisbane that is of value to wildlife or endangered is protected under Brisbane's biodiversity overlay. Credit:Tony Moore The mapping, available online for members of the public, determines whether vegetation across Brisbane is of high ecological significance, general significance, or has other impacts such as koala habitat. Brisbane City Council began the overhaul in 2016, going to public consultation in 2017. Nearly 300 public submissions were made. The owner of an empty canoe found drifting in Moreton Bay on Sunday has been found. Water police are reminding the owners of watercraft to report missing vessels to authorities so search operations are not launched unnecessarily. Credit:Queensland Police Service The man contacted police on Tuesday and said he had tied up the canoe at a Deception Bay beach, north of Brisbane, on Saturday morning but it had somehow broken free by the time he returned. Authorities launched a major search operation at the weekend after the Canadian-style canoe was found drifting almost two kilometres from Bribie Island on Sunday morning. Fishing gear including a cast net, tackle box and crab dilly, a blue and maroon towel and a small, homemade anchor were found inside. Brisbane's Queen Street Mall is set to lose its Pig 'n' Whistle pub, after Brisbane City Council approved a decision to evict the popular watering hole and put out a tender to demolish the site and install a new tenant. The pub, one of several operated by Mantle Group in the city's CBD, has been on a month-to-month contract since 2017, after its original 15-year lease expired in 2014. The lease was extended temporarily while the G20 summit was being held in Brisbane in November 2014. The Pig'n'Whistle Pub in Queen Street Mall, Brisbane, will be demolished and replaced by a new tenant after Brisbane City Council decided to go to tender for a new lessee. Credit:Lucy Stone/Brisbane Times At Tuesdays council meeting, lord mayor Adrian Schrinner told councillors the decision had been made during the council recess to put the site out to tender as part of the malls ongoing refurbishment. In 2015, council released the Queen Street Mall Visioning Plan, which set a vision for how any future revitalisations or changes to the mall should occur, and a big focus of that was to make sure it was a mall for all, Cr Schrinner said. During the past two months, paramedics have treated 80 people for injuries sustained while riding Lime scooters in the River City an average of more than one incident per day. However, the Queensland Ambulance Service believes the scooters themselves are not to blame. It says the blame should instead fall on riders not being aware of the dangers the electric scooters present. Emergency services said the man fell from the Lime scooter on the South Bank forecourt near the Wheel of Brisbane. Credit:Toby Crockford A 50-year-old man continues to fight for life in the Princess Alexandra Hospital after falling off his Lime scooter down the stairs near the Wheel of Brisbane and hitting his head, resulting in his going into cardiac arrest. A delicate police operation was under way on Wednesday night to retrieve a man's bloated body found in a sewage-holding tank on Brisbane's bayside. Council maintenance workers made the grim discovery during a routine check of the Wynnum sewerage pump station late on Wednesday morning, Detective Inspector Owen Elloy said. "At this point in time it is purely supposition as to how the gentleman got here and positive identification hasn't been made as of yet," he said. A police spokeswoman said it was going to take a "considerable" amount of time to remove the body from tank, with extra help from Fire and Emergency Service crews needed. A Buddhist inmate accused of informing on other prisoners by dropping letters in prison 'dob boxes' is in a court fight to prove he's not a snitch. Robert Sloan was moved to a restrictive high-security unit at Barwon Prison because authorities believed his life was at risk after he allegedly wrote letters about planned hits on him and other prisoners. Inside Barwon Prison. Credit:Angela Wylie Prison "dob boxes" are an anonymous tip-off system where inmates can alert prison authorities to security threats inside units, but those who use them are considered "dogs" and are targeted by other prisoners. Sloan denies he snitched, wants to be returned to his former unit and has taken his fight to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal to have the letters released. A former policeman has been released from prison after the Court of Appeal overturned his convictions on two charges, for punching a teenage boy and then perverting the course of justice. Former Senior Constable Simon Mareangareu, 55, was sentenced to a year in jail in August last year, after County Court Judge Jeanette Morrish described the attack in 2014 as "disgraceful and utterly abhorrent". Simon Mareangareu. Credit:Eddie Jim Judge Morrish had said Mr Mareangareu "meted out summary justice" to Kyan Foster, then 16, and then prepared a brief of evidence to have the teen charged with offences he had not committed. But on Tuesday, the Court of Appeal quashed the convictions, finding the judge had made prejudicial comments to the jury, the prosecution had introduced a new allegation after he closed his case, and the jury's verdicts were inconsistent on related charges. A man has been found guilty of the 1987 murder of a woman who fled war-torn Cambodia only to be killed in her Melbourne home. Meth Mean was found guilty on Wednesday of murdering Ranny Yun, 27, at her home in Springvale on October 15, 1987. A cousin that afternoon found Ms Yuns body naked from the waist down, bashed to the back of the head and with her throat cut. Meth Mean arrives at the Supreme Court last week. Credit:Eddie Jim Means lawyers told a Supreme Court trial there was a real possibility Ms Yun had been killed by her husband, Kuy Hieang Thong, as he began a secret relationship with a woman in Thailand in 1986, and there was evidence of an allegation he had raped another woman at knifepoint. But Mr Thong told police he was gambling at a friends house in Nunawading on the afternoon his wife was killed, and gave evidence in Means trial to deny any involvement in Ms Yuns murder. His friend provided an alibi that Mr Thong was playing cards that afternoon. The family of a terminally ill woman who went missing after she discharged herself from a Perth hospital late on Tuesday afternoon have expressed their gratitude towards emergency services for their help finding her. Hazel Henry, 55, was last seen leaving Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital at 5.30pm, and she was seen on security cameras walking towards Kings Park. Hazel Henry has only weeks left to live., and her partner said she was struggling to cope when she went for her walk. Credit:Nine News Perth Police immediately raised the alarm about Ms Henry's disappearance as a cancer sufferer who required medical attention, and a search was launched in the Crawley and West Perth area. She was found nearly 30 hours later by a search and rescue dog early on Thursday morning curled up under a tree in Kings Park with a minor head injury. The lawyer of WA primary school teacher who was handed a suspended jail sentence for transporting a package of methamphetamine between Mandurah and Esperance for a friend says she will be "fighting for a career" after her conviction. Kate Marie Ainsworth, 36, was sentenced in the District Court in Perth on Tuesday by Judge Belinda Lonsdale. She was sentenced on Tuesday. Credit:Unknown Prosecutor Digby Robinson told the court that on January 15 last year, Ainsworth went to a woman's home in South Yunderup near Pinjarra and picked up a package containing about 14 grams of meth. Ainsworth drove to Esperance and, about 5.45pm, left the package in the garage of a property in Castletown. London: Baby Sussex has a name, and it took almost everybody by surprise: Archie Harrison. Or, to give him his full title, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. After taking their two-day-old son to meet the Queen at Windsor Castle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made the announcement everyone had been waiting for. Prince Harry and Meghan, joined by her mother Doria Ragland, show their new son to Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Credit:Instagram/Sussex Royal No way! said the first Instagram user to comment on the couples post. Atlanta: Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has signed into law one of the United States' most restrictive abortion laws, a measure that bans the procedure once a foetal heartbeat is detected, which can be as early as six weeks, before many women know they are pregnant. Kemp, a Republican, said he approved the bill "to ensure that all Georgians have the opportunity to live, grow, learn and prosper in our great state". Georgias Republican Governor Brian Kemp signs legislation on Tuesday. Credit:Atlanta Journal/AP The signing caps weeks of tension and protests at the state Capitol and begins what could be a lengthy and costly legal battle over the law's constitutionality. But a legal showdown is exactly what supporters want. "We will not back down," Kemp said. "We will always continue to fight for life." Clever manoeuvring by Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has delayed a no-confidence motion against him until the end of May, at least, but the issues creating political pressure in Australia's near neighbour are not likely to be so easily dismissed. O'Neill mustered a majority of 59 votes to 50 to win a series of votes on Tuesday, delaying a parliamentary sitting until May 28 and forestalling an attempt by his opponents to bring him down. Prime Minister Scott Morrison with Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister Peter O'Neill after APEC last year. Credit:AAP The rebel MPs filed the motion after Parliament closed late on Tuesday, but changes O'Neill also made to parliamentary committees mean the motion might have trouble getting on the notice paper later this month. O'Neill has consistently asserted that he has the numbers to stay Prime Minister, and declared on Tuesday: "The Government is well and truly solid, intact and we are ready to work". Latest News MoneyMe to acquire SocietyOne Deal brings together two of the fastest-growing brands in the non-bank space Resimac makes key broker channel hires Two new GMs to bolster broker support Following a year of significant growth, a non-bank lender has moved offices in each of its three locations in order to accommodate its expanding staff and need for additional resources. Bluestone was acquired by an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management L.P. and subsequently moved into the near prime lending space in April 2018. The transition brought over 80 new staff members onboard among the Sydney, Auckland and Manila offices, resulting in a team numbering over 250. Simultaneously, Bluestones originations increased by 75% compared to the previous year. As a result, Bluestones Sydney headquarters have been expanded into the second level of its CBD building, adding 700 square meters. The Auckland team moved into a new space suited to support the significant growth in volumes anticipated in the coming months. The Manila branch also relocated into larger offices, bringing the total leased office space across the APAC region to over 3000sqm. Bluestone CEO Campbell Smyth said, The office relocations and expansions we recently completed serve as a physical signpost of the growth our business has experienced for the past 12 months. As we continue on this path, we want to ensure our staff continue to have the resources they need to serve our borrowers and broker network with the efficiency Bluestone is known for in the market, he concluded. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams City health officials identified two unvaccinated Sunset Park kids as the first New York City public school students to fall ill with the deadly measles virus on Tuesday. The students, along with another infected Sunset Park resident, all reported spending time in areas where the measles virus has been active. Fortunately, the children, who were enrolled in school under a religious exemption that allows kids to attend class without a vaccination, were not in school while infectious, according to one of the citys top health officials, who noted that high vaccination rates in city schools should ensure the safety of students. We are confident there is no increased risk of exposure at New York City public schools both because the recently diagnosed children from Sunset Park were not in school while infectious and because of the high vaccination rates of students in these and all NYC public schools, said Deputy Commissioner Dr. Demetre Daskalakis Since Brooklyns first measles case was discovered in a member of the boroughs Orthodox Jewish community traveling from Israel in October, Health officials have identified 466 cases of the highly contagious pathogen, which has left 34 people hospitalized, including nine patients who required intensive care. To combat the outbreak, Health Commissioner Oxiris Barbot issued an emergency order mandating all residents of four Williamsburg zip codes 11205, 11206, 11211, and 11249 where the vast majority of measles cases have been discovered, vaccinate themselves and their children, or else face stiff fines. So far, the Health Departments so-called disease detectives have issued summonses to 84 people for failing to comply with the health order, requiring them to attend an administrative hearing and pay a $1,000 fine if the violation is upheld. Failing to attend the hearing results in an automatic $2,000 penalty. A group of five Williamsburg parents filed a lawsuit against the city in Kings County Supreme Court last month for the right to not vaccinate themselves and their children, but Judge Lawrence Knipel swiftly dismissed the case on April 18. This as the largest outbreak of the measles that New York City has experienced since 1991, according to Barbot, who reiterated the efficacy and safety of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, which has been in use within the United States since 1963, before which roughly 3-4 million Americans fell ill with measles annually. Measles is a highly contagious airborne pathogen that produces symptoms including fever, cough, and a runny nose, and can cause diarrhea, ear infection, pneumonia, encephalitis, and death with about one of every 1,367 kids infected dying due to fatal complications from measles. Symptoms can appear anytime from seven to 21 days following exposure, according to the Health Department. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Theyre setting sail. A Singaporean developer has opened a new private marina in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Conglomerate SUTL Group has started the soft opening of its ONE15 Brooklyn Marina its first such project in the U.S. on eight acres of waterfront between piers 4 and 5 at the price tag of more than $28 million this month and will fully open the wharf in June, which will berth up to 100 boats and offer space for casual captains at the first new marina in decades, according to its developer. ONE15 is proud to bring to fruition the first new marina in New York Harbor in a generation and to welcome water enthusiasts to the calmest waters in the New York Harbor basin, SUTL Chief Arthur Tay said. In addition to its Singapore docks, SUTL also has landings in Malaysia, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Vietnam, according to its website. The semi-private Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation put up a request for proposals to develop the river space back in 2014, which Michigander maritime company Edgewater Resources accepted before SUTL took over the bid the following year, according to Lau. The Kings County jetties will host space for boats ranging in size from dinghies to 200-foot vessels and they will keep space for their community dock where casual boaters can launch into the East River on more casual watercraft such as kayaks, according to the companys website. The organization will also donate two percent of its marina services revenue to support free and low-cost community boating, according to the site. The wharf is accessible to people with disabilities and the company has a sailing club with several levels of expensive membership packages, starting at $400 per year for access to a clubhouse, barbecues, and social gatherings, all the way to a $1,200 full membership, allowing for unlimited sails as crew. The club is already hosting its first sailing race this week, the companys Deputy Chief Executive Officer Estelle Lau told this paper. Boats are currently moored at the pier and Lau expects dozens more to come from shores further south in the warmer months. We have 15-20 seasonal boats and larger boats will come up from Florida will be coming in through the next few weeks and months, she said. We have dozens [of] inquiries. The company will finish up construction in the coming months and plans to open a clubhouse on a docked boat some time in the next season, which kicks off next spring. But to keep the boats steady while docked, engineers behind the project installed deep draft steel barges so-called wave attenuators to calm the tides and choppy waters. The company worked with city, state, and federal agencies, including the states Department of Environmental Conservation, U.S. Army Core of Engineers, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, to ensure they built the pier in an environmentally friendly way and without interfering with the R train, which crosses the river from Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan in an underground tunnel below the location, according to the quays manager. ONE15 Brooklyns operational team worked closely with engineers, architects and its Singapore-based ownership unit to maximize the usage of this space, conveniently located off the banks of Brooklyn Heights, said John Winson. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams 78th Precinct Park Slope Glass hole Cops have given up the hunt for the jerk who smashed a womans car window on Prospect Place on April 29. The victim told police she left her four-door between Flatbush and Carlton avenues at 1 a.m., and returned that evening to find some goon had gone ham on a rear passenger-side window, costing her about $200 in damages. No parking Investigators are calling off the search for a thief who looted the glove box of an elderly womans car on Ninth Street on April 30, taking her handicapped parking placard. The victim, 71, told police she left her car between Sixth and Seventh avenues at noon, and returned four hours later to find her parking placard, along with $10 and her registration, stolen. Oh, baby! A thief stole packages containing baby supplies from a St. Marks Avenue home on April 26. The victim told police that a thief nabbed her delivery of baby food and clothing from her home between Fifth and Sixth avenues sometime after 5 p.m. Chip and dip Cops are throwing up their hands in the search for the reckless driver who smashed into a mans car on Flatbush Avenue on April 29, before peeling off. The victim told police he was sitting in his parked car between Bergen Street and Sixth Avenue at 10:17 a.m. when wacko side swiped him and then sped off. Colin Mixson 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. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor A London judge rejected fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modis third attempt to get bail, after his lawyer said that Indian authorities have seized or liquidated the equivalent of $860 million of his funds and he doesnt have access to enough resources to flee. Judge Emma Arbuthnot ruled that even though Modi was willing to double his proposed security to 2 million pounds ($2.6 million), the risk of interfering with witnesses and destroying evidence remained too high. 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. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor Before you start your day, take a look at the major events in the country that are likely to make headlines today: From Narendra Modi and Priyanka Gandhi's rally in Delhi to Google Pixel 3a launch in India, here are some of the most important news events scheduled for today. Modi will be addressing rallies in Haryana, Delhi Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a mega rally in Delhi today. PM Modi address a rally at the iconic Ramlila Maidan and it is likely that he would unleash a frontal attack on both Congress as well as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) here. He will also address ... Type address separated by commas Your Email: Memorial of Captain Umrao Singh, who fought in the World War-II in 1944 and got the Victoria Cross award in 2005 (the year he died), is a landmark near the entry gate of Palra, a village in the Gurgaon district of Haryana. Some 21 young men from the village had joined Indian Army in 2005 to honour Singh, and Palra had shot to instant fame. Since then, village elders say at least three to four men get selected in the Army every year. Palra has the rare distinction of having at least one army personnel or former service man in every second house. The village itself is an Aadarsh ... The World Gold Council (WGC) has developed a set of guidelines for digital gold, which includes norms for both, investors and service providers in this space. The standards, which have been designed to protect investors and promote best practices, highlight the fact that there is a need to provide for investors safety when they buy gold on the internet, especially in a prominent market for the metal like India. 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. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor An 18-year-old was killed after two suspects opened fire at a high school in suburban Denver on Tuesday, authorities said. Douglas County Sheriff said Coroner Jill Romann hasn't officially identified the male student. "It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in today's #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the student is stating it's an 18 year old male," Douglas County Sheriff's Office wrote on Twitter. Meanwhile, the two suspects were arrested after the shooting at STEM School in Highlands Ranch, which has over 1,800 students. Both the accused are students -- one is an adult male and the other is a juvenile, CNN quoted Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock as saying. The shooting began just before 2 pm (local time) and the suspects "got deep inside the school" and opened fire at the students at two separate locations, Spurlock said. School authorities informed the police as soon as the incident unfolded. The students were immediately evacuated to a safer area. "Over the next few minutes, quite a few shots were fired. As officers were arriving at the school they could still hear gunshots," Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said. Spurlock informed that the first sheriff's deputies arrived within two minutes of receiving a distress call from the school and engaged with the accused persons. He said that the police "did struggle with the suspects to take them into custody." The names of the suspects were not revealed, according to CNN. Nicholson-Kluth confirmed that there was no third suspect in the shooting. "We do not have any other suspects. We have all the people who were involved (in the shooting)," Spurlock said. Following the shooting, the area surrounding STEM School was placed under lockdown. All schools in Highlands Ranch were also on a lockout. The schools re-opened after the situation stabilised. Spurlock said several students were in a critical condition, with the youngest victim aged 15 years. The injured students are being treated at three local hospitals. While five of them are at Littleton Adventist Hospital in Littleton, a victim was being treated at Children's Hospital Colorado South Campus in Highlands Ranch and is said to be in a good condition. Two juvenile students are being treated for their injuries at Sky Ridge Medical Center in Lone Tree. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) South Korea scrambled multiple jets in response to its air defence identification zone (KADIZ) being allegedly violated by two Russian Tupolev Tu-142s last week. Quoting military sources, Yonhap News Agency reported that the two Russian jets entered KADIZ four times from Jeju on Friday and remained in the air space for around an hour and thirty-nine minutes. The South Korean aircraft, which included F-15Ks, sent warning messages in line with the military's operation manual. No additional measures were taken as the Russian jets "clearly defined their purpose of flight". "In communication with our side, they clearly defined their purpose of flight," the source told Yonhap. It is believed that the Russian maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft had taken part in the Sino-Russian naval drills, held near China's Qingdao from April 29 to May 1. Two Russian warplanes had previously violated the KADIZ in July last year. Following this, Seoul lodged a strong protest with Russia by summoning a Russian military envoy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least eight students sustained injuries after two suspects opened fire at a high school in suburban Denver on Tuesday, authorities said. Police arrested the two suspects after the shooting at STEM School in Highlands Ranch which has over 1,800 students. Both the accused are students -- one is an adult male and the other is a juvenile, CNN quoted Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock as saying. The shooting began just before 2 pm (local time) and the suspects "got deep inside the school" and opened fire at the students at two separate locations, Spurlock said. School authorities informed the police as soon as the incident unfolded. The students were immediately evacuated to a safer area. "Over the next few minutes, quite a few shots were fired. As officers were arriving at the school they could still hear gunshots," Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said. Spurlock informed that the first sheriff's deputies arrived within two minutes of receiving a distress call from the school and engaged with the accused persons. He said that the police "did struggle with the suspects to take them into custody." The names of the suspects were not revealed, according to CNN. Nicholson-Kluth confirmed that there was no third suspect in the shooting. "We do not have any other suspects. We have all the people who were involved (in the shooting)," Spurlock said. Following the shooting, the area surrounding STEM School was placed in a lockdown. All schools in Highlands Ranch were also on a lockout. Later, all schools re-opened after the situation stabilised. Spurlock said that several students were in a critical condition, with the youngest victim aged 15 years. The eight students are being treated at three local hospitals. While five of them are at Littleton Adventist Hospital in Littleton, a victim was being treated at Children's Hospital Colorado South Campus in Highlands Ranch and is said to be in a good condition. Two juvenile students are being treated for their injuries at Sky Ridge Medical Center in Lone Tree. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Buoyed by its success in the Balakot air strikes against a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in Pakistan, the Indian Air Force is now planning to buy an advanced version of the Spice-2000 bomb, which can completely destroy buildings and bunkers. During the Balakot strikes, the Air Force had dropped Spice-2000 bombs from Mirage-2000 fighter aircraft after a pack of 12 of these fighters crossed the Line of Control to strike the Jaish facility in the Khyber Pakhtunwa province. However, the Spice-2000 bombs used in the Balakot strikes were the penetrator version which made holes using their weight in the concrete rooftops of the buildings in the Jaish camp which don't destroy buildings but explode inside killing people with the mix of 70-80 kg explosives with shrapnel. "The IAF is now planning to acquire the bunker buster or the building destroyer version with Mark 84 warhead which can decimate targeted buildings," government sources told ANI. The acquisition is likely to be done through the emergency powers granted to the three services for buying any equipment of their choice worth up to Rs 300 crore to prepare for any hostilities, they said. Under the powers, the Army has already made up its mind to buy Spike anti-tank guided missiles deployment against any possible armoured threat posed by the enemy troops. The Spice-2000 bombs have been acquired from Israel which is one of the main weapon and ammunition supplier of the Air Force. The Balakot air strikes were conducted by the Air Force in response to the Pulwama terrorist attack on a CRPF convoy in which 44 personnel lost their lives. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday took suo motu cognisance of a case where a woman was allegedly gang-raped by five men while her husband was beaten up by a group of five men in Thanagaji area of Alwar district in Rajasthan on April 26. A video shot by the alleged accused of the gruesome incident, reportedly, went viral on social media. Reportedly, despite having registered an FIR in the matter, the police did not take any action for four days because of elections on May 6. The Commission has also observed that the contents of the media reports, if true, amount to the gross violation of the human rights of the victim woman and her husband. "Accordingly, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Rajasthan calling for a report in the matter, within six weeks including action taken against the guilty and relief/ counselling provided to the victim woman," the NHRC said in a release. "The Commission would also like to know whether provisions of the SC/ST Act, 1995 have been applied in this case for action against the guilty and statutory relief to the victim," it added. However, state Chief Minister Gehlot yesterday asked DGP Kapil Garg to monitor the probe into the heinous crime. Police have arrested one person so far. As many as 14 teams have been constituted to nab other absconding culprits. Reportedly, according to the police, the victim and her husband were going from village Lalwadi to Taalvraksh on a bike, when at about five men aged between 20-25 years, stopped them and took the couple to deserted sand dunes. The husband was allegedly assaulted and tied up while the woman was gang-raped. The culprits, reportedly, also threatened the couple not to report the matter to the police or they will make the video, public. The accused also demanded money from the couple which was given to them but later, when they again demanded money, the couple reported the matter to the police on May 2. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) American actor-comedian Amy Schumer, who announced her pregnancy in October last year, welcomed a baby boy recently. The 37-year-old star, who was pregnant with her first child, took to her Instagram account to share pictures of her newborn along with her husband Chris. Amy also revealed the name of the baby in the post. She wrote, "Gene Attell Fischer And his dad Chris." The couple gave birth to Gene on Sunday and announced the news while sharing a picture from the hospital. She, without missing out the royal baby reference, wrote, "10:55 pm last night. Our royal baby was born. Last year in November, Schumer was diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum, which is a form of acute morning sickness. The same has also been experienced by Kate Middleton, every time she was pregnant. Chris and Amy exchanged vows in February 2018 in a surprise ceremony in Malibu. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP president Amit Shah held a road show in support of BJP candidate from Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency and accused in Malegaon blast, Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur, on Wednesday. The roadshow was also attended by the former chief minister and BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chauhan. During the road-show, Shah along with Shivraj and Pragya stood in an open van, waving to the BJP supporters. Released on bail, Sadhvi Pragya is pitted against the former chief minister and senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh in the constituency. Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency is going to polls in the last phase of the general elections on May 19. Five of the seven phases of the general elections have concluded while two phases are to be held on May 12 and May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Bombay High Court on Wednesday directed jail authorities to provide ambulance and escort Peter Mukerjea, an accused in Sheena Bora murder case, to Asian Heart Institute for 26 sessions of a cardiac rehabilitation programme. Mukerjea's bail plea has been adjourned for hearing till June 12 by the court. His plea mentioned that the CBI does not have evidence against him and cited medical conditions for seeking bail.On April 27, Mukerjea, who is currently lodged in Authur Road jail, had filed a bail plea in Bombay High Court.A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court had earlier rejected his bail plea."We were seeking bail on the medical grounds. We argued in the court that after the bypass surgery, sending him back to the jail would be dangerous as he would be prone to infections," Advocate Shivkant Shivade had told ANI over the phone. On March 17, Mukerjea was admitted to the JJ Hospital after he complained of chest pain. Mukerjea is accused of murdering his daughter Sheena Bora over a financial dispute in 2012. The crime came to the fore three years later, in 2015, for which Peter was charged for conspiracy. Mukerjea's wife Indrani is the prime accused in the case and is currently lodged in Mumbai's Byculla jail. The trial, in this case, is underway at the special CBI court. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At a time when countries like New Zealand are tightening gun laws, Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro signed a decree easing restrictions on gun control on Tuesday (local time). Gun buyers in the South American nation can now buy between 1,000 and 5,000 rounds of ammunition every year depending on their license, while the validity of the permit will be extended to 10 years, according to Xinhua. Furthermore, the decree also involves rules of gun use, purchasing, imports and ownership. The full text of the decree is yet to be published. With the latest decree, the Brazilian President fulfils one of his campaign promises to ease owning firearms for citizens. In a bid to end the monopoly of the local gun company 'Taurus', the latest decree also allows those with gun possession permits to import weapons and ammunition. Bolsonaro outlined that the decree is a guarantee of the individual rights of those citizens who wish to own a gun. He had previously removed the need for gun seekers to formally justify the reason behind wanting a gun with the police. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said that "if Modi government is brought back to power, terrorism and Naxalism will be completed wiped out of our land". Addressing an election rally in Shivpuri, Adityanath said, "The situation of internal and external security was dangerous. 270 districts were affected by Naxalism and terrorism. One-third of India was a victim of anarchy due to Congress' bad governance and wrong policies and their soft approach towards terrorism." Praising the work done by the Narendra Modi government, he said, "We are getting good results due to the actions taken by our government in the last five years. Today terrorism and Naxalism has restricted to 5 to 7 districts only. Bring back Modi government to get them completely wiped out of our land." The Chief Minister accused the Congress of looting the resources meant for the public. "They are not providing electricity to people. How would they loot the resources if they give electricity to people," he said. Adityanath further said Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath should take lessons from Uttar Pradesh on controlling crime. "I have heard crime has increased after Congress formed the government in MP. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister should learn from Uttar Pradesh as to how to control crime," he said. At an election rally in Morena, Adityanath continued his tirade against the Congress saying the party has insulted Hindus. "When did Hindus become terrorists? Congress has insulted Hindus. Pandit Nehru used to say he was a Hindu accidentally. His fourth-generation, Rahul Gandhi, says that he is a 'janaudhari' Hindu," he said. Targeting Priyanka Gandhi, the UP CM said, "Congress' 'shehzaadi' says she will not visit Ram Lalla since it is a disputed place. Is there a dispute over Ram? In 2005, Congress said in the Supreme Court that Ram and Krishna never existed. If so, why is Ayodhya, Rameshwaram, Mathura etc. significant." Adityanath further said that if debt waiver is possible in Uttar Pradesh then why not in Madhya Pradesh. "People should ask Congress that if farm debt waiver can be successful in Uttar Pradesh then why not in MP. There is a BJP government in UP. It means there is something wrong with the Congress. They want to loot money, just like what Rajiv Gandhi said that 'only a little money reaches the common people'," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday urged his party workers to post their own pictures with AIIMS in the background on social media to sweep the Lok Sabha polls in the region. Chief Minister Yogi, who had called a meeting of party workers to discuss strategies to win the Lok Sabha polls, said: "You all must get in front of AIIMS. Click a selfie and post it on social media. Voters will know how Gorakhpur has been developed. They will realise that they do not need to travel to Mumbai, Lucknow, and Delhi for tertiary care treatment." He also asked them to make efforts to win their respective booths and advised them to go for door to door campaigning. "If you manage to win your respective booths, then be sure that the party will surely win the election. Make sure that you all give your best in this election," he said. Chief Minister Adityanath also directed his party workers to arrange vehicles for the poor and disabled voters on the day of polling for a better turnout of voters. Though a stronghold of Chief Minister Adityanath, BJP lost Gorakhpur seat to Samajwadi Party in the last bye-poll. This time BJP has fielded Bhojpuri film actor Ravi Kishan, who is facing Rambhuyan Nishad of SP-BSP alliance. The election in Gorakhpur will be held on the last phase of seven-phased polling on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China and Japan will hold their 11th round of high-level talks on maritime affairs in Japan's Otaru city on May 10 and 11. Making the announcement, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said that officials from foreign ministries, defence ministries, maritime law enforcement and management departments of the two counties will participate in the negotiations. "China expects to fully exchange views with Japan on maritime issues of common concern to strengthen mutual understanding and trust with Japan," Xinhua News Agency quoted Geng, as saying. The China-Japan high-level consultations on maritime affairs were established in 2012. It aims at strengthening maritime cooperation and to resolve marine issues between the two nations. The last round of talks was held in China's Wuzhen city in December last year. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Accusing Congress of backing the 'tukde, tukde gang', Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said by promising to revoke sedition law and Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), the Congress party wants to give full freedom to stone pelters and those who support terrorists and naxals. "Congress is also promising about removing the sedition law. Congress wants that the 'tukde tukde' gang, those who insult India, those who insult the flag and those favouring naxals should be given full freedom. I want to know whether you accept these promises made by the Congress," he said addressing an election rally here. 'Tukde tukde gang" (the gang of splitters) is a slogan ascribed to protesters in Jawaharlal Nehru University three years ago, an incident in which students union leader Kanhaiya Kumar was slapped a case of sedition against him. He is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Begusarai in Bihar as a CPI constituency. Modi also slammed Congress saying that in its manifesto the party has said that that if they would form the government in the Centre, they will take away the security provided to Jawans posted in sensitive areas including Jammu and Kashmir through AFSPA. "This means that Congress is openly talking about giving full freedom to the stone-pelters and those who support terrorism," he said in the rally in Sirsa constituency, an area that sends a considerable number of people to the army and security forces. He further asked Opposition leaders why they do not talk about Defence policies in their public meetings. "Can any nation become a world power without strengthening its defence? Will the world listen to a country which cannot protect itself? Have Congress or any other 'mahamilavati' parties ever spoken about defence policies in their gatherings? They can't say anything on defence because of their history in this field," he said. "Before 2014, terrorist attacks used to take place but the weak government of the Congress used to only give statements. The strong government that people have made in the Centre has given strength to our Jawans. Now our Jawans enter Pakistan and kill terrorists. Those terrorists, who used to threaten us earlier, are now hiding away," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress workers on Wednesday accused former chief minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan of lying about the policies of the Kamalnath-led Congress government in the state. As a mark of protest, the workers also sent a package of eye drops, almonds and 'chyawanprash' to Chouhan in order to cure him of "memory loss, defective eyesight, and impaired hearing". "Shivraj Singh Chouhan is spreading lies about the Congress government's policies in the state. It appears that he is suffering from memory loss, impaired hearing, and defective eyesight," said Congress leader Narendra Saluja. Chouhan is not ready to accept the reality of the pro-people policies of the Congress government, Saluja added. "We met him and gave him the list of 21 lakh farmers whose loans have been waived but still he is saying that no loans have been waived. Similarly, he took out a procession carrying a lantern on his shoulders in an area which was already lit with electricity." Polling was held in Madhya Pradesh for 13 of its 29 parliamentary seats in the first and fifth phases of Lok Sabha election. Polling for the rest of the 16 seats will be held in the sixth and seventh phases on May 12 and 19, respectively. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least eight people, including three police personnel, were killed and 25 others were wounded in the suicide bombing outside the Data Darbar shrine here on Wednesday morning, according to Punjab Police spokesperson. "It was a suicide bombing. The target was a vehicle of the elite force that was stationed outside the gate for checking," Geo News quoted Punjab Police spokesperson Nayab Haider, as saying. Authorities believe that the suspected attacker's body is amongst those brought to Mayo Hospital in the aftermath of the bombing. President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the attack which took place at around 8:45 am today. Khan has sought a report of the incident. The 11th-century shrine was previously targeted in 2010, during which 40 people lost their lives. The latest attack rattled the Muslim community as it comes during the holy month of Ramzan. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP President Amit Shah asserted on Wednesday that the only relevant issue in this election is security and there is only one man who hasdelivered results on this count and that is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Don't give vote for development works to BJP candidate Bidyut Baran Mahto in Jamshedpur; vote for him because Narendra Modi made the country's border secure. The Prime Minister has taken effective steps to secure the borders of the country. In the regime of UPA-I and II, enemy forces used to run havoc in the country but no action was taken on that front," he said addressing an election rally. "In the recent past, our 40 security personnel lost their lives in the attack by Pakistan-aided terrorism in Pulwama. Due to the decisive nature of PM Modi, our brave Indian Air Force (IAF) troops retaliated and entered enemy territory to debase their terror camps. India is only the third country after Israel and United States of America (USA) to have retaliated to terrorism in this brave manner," Shah asserted. He attacked the opposition saying, "After our surgical strike, everywhere there was a celebratory atmosphere but there was widespread hopelessness in Pakistan and in the Congress camp." On Jammu and Kashmir, Shah made BJP's stand clear that they would surely remove article 370 from the state. "Omar Abdullah said that Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate Prime Minister. We will never let that happen and we will surely remove article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said. "I have been to 296 Lok Sabha constituencies around the country and everywhere in the country there is only one wave - 'Modi, Modi'. The people of India were looking for a person for 70 years who will not work for his own family but for every person in the country. That man is Narendra Modi," he contended. Shah spoke about Jamshedpur as being India's pride. "Jamshedpur is India's pride. Inspired by Swami Vivekananda, Jamshedji Tata founded India's first steel factory in Jamshedpur," he said. "I want to talk about Jamshedpur. Bidyut Baran Mahto is the MP from Jamshedpur who works day and night for his constituency's welfare. At the cost of Rs 447 crores, roads have been built in Jamshedpur. At the cost of Rs 1215 crores, 121 km of highways have been built in Jharkhand. MGM medical college's upgradation work has started," he said about Jamshedpur. "Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), 16,500 people in Jamshedpur have got houses. Duronto express has been flagged off from Jamshedpur. A Regional Passport Office has been opened in Jamshedpur. 3,05,000 children have got scholarships in Jamshedpur. 1.5 lakh houses have got piped water connection in Jamshedpur," he added. "Along with the central government, the Raghuvar Das government in Jharkhand has also done good work. The state government took the agricultural growth rate from -4.5% to 14% in the state in the last 5 years. More than 35 lakh employment opportunities were created and around one lakh government jobs were created for the people of Jharkhand. 13 Polytechnics and 6 medical colleges were opened. Earlier, there were 300 medical seats; now the figure stands at 900. Naxalism has more or less been wiped off from Jharkhand," he stated. He finally appealed for votes from the people for BJP in large numbers. Jharkhand has polls in four phases out of which two phases are over and two remain on May 12 and 19. The counting of votes shall take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An FIR has been lodged against BJP candidate Ashok Lalwani for allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). On April 29, the day when he filed his nominations, Lalwani had allegedly offered a cloth with BJP symbol inked on it while praying in Ganesh Temple in Khajrana. A notice was issued to him after Congress complained against his act. "BJP candidate Shankar Lalwani had offered a cloth with party symbols inked on it in the Ganesh Temple. A case has been lodged against him under section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Religious Institutions (Prevention of Misuse) Act, 1988," Khajrana SHO Preetam Singh Thakur said while talking to ANI on Wednesday. According to SDM Rakesh Sharma, the case was lodged as per the directions of District Election Officer Lokesh Kumar Jatav. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against 40-50 people for assaulting Milind Ekbote, an accused in the Bhima Koregaon violence case, at Zendewadi village in Pune, police said. According to police, Ekbote sustained injuries after he was attacked at an event organised to commemorate Satguru Sitaram Maharaj's death anniversary on Tuesday. "An FIR has been registered against 40-50 people for assaulting Milind Ekbote at Jhendewadi village in Pune. The accused are members of Goraksha organisation which Ekbote is also a part of. Some differences occurred between them as Ekbote filed a complaint against accused of corruption in gaushala run by them," police said. Police have identified three to four accused, however, their identities are yet to be revealed as no arrest has been made so far. The accused have been booked under sections 143, 147, 149, 323, and 295 of the Indian Penal Code, and investigation in the matter is underway. Presently, Ekbote is facing charges of inciting violence, attempt to murder and atrocities against Dalits in the violence that erupted in Pune on January 1, 2018, and left one dead and several others injured, including 10 policemen. Violence erupted after some people, reportedly with saffron flags, pelted stones at cars heading towards Perne village on the Pune-Ahmednagar Road for the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the Bhima-Koregaon war on New Year's Day. On January 16, Pune Sessions Court gave relief to Ekbote as it allowed him to interact with media, deliver public speeches and move freely within as well as outside the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, comparing him with a "jallad" (an executioner). Replying to a question from the media about Priyanka Gandhi Vadra calling the Prime Minister Duryodhan (a villainous character from mythological Mahabharata), Rabri said, "Vadra should have called the Prime Minister an executioner because he has been responsible for killing judges and journalists." RJD leader and Rabri's daughter, Misa Bharti said, "People of Bihar are with us. We are fighting on ideology and issues but NDA leaders are issueless and they only target our family. People of Bihar are observing it minutely." On Nitish Kumar's comment that the days of lantern (RJD's symbol to indicate backwardness) are over and LED lights are in, Bharti said the fact that people still use lantern shows that Nitish Kumar has not developed the state. On missing her father Lalu Prasad Yadav, she said," I am missing him as a daughter. However, people are very supportive and talk about him. Lalu ji is like an ideology. If Lalu ji was here then mahagathbandhan would have been 200 per cent stronger." In an apparent reference to attack RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav over alleged bad law and order during his regime as the state's Chief Minister, she said, "Bringing 'adulterated' people will lead to corruption and rampant crime." "Increasing their power means bringing back the days of loot, kidnapping, and corruption in Bihar," she added. On the standard of the narrative employed in the election time by BJP leaders, she said, "Every political leader should speak in a cultured manner. NDA leaders' level of speech is falling. PM Modi's Muzaffarpur speech is very low standard and people do not expect him to speak in that manner. Leaders think that this language will be helpful for electoral benefit but people actually get angry with this sort of language." Five phases of elections will end in Bihar with polling in the remaining two phases on May 12 and 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Speaking on the US-China trade issue, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that he's happy with over "$100 billion a year in tariffs filling US coffers," adding that while this is great for the United States, it is "not good for China". He also tried to reason out the latest setback in trade negotiations, which spurred him to threaten new tariffs on Chinese imports. "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to "negotiate" with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to rip off the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come...," he tweeted. "Guess what, that's not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal. We'll see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers...great for the US, not good for China!" he added. This comes after China expressed "sincerity towards continuing economic and trade talks" with Washington, according to Chinese State media. "Negotiation itself is a process of discussion, and it is normal for the two sides to have differences," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said during a press briefing on Tuesday. Geng further stated that adding tariffs will not solve any problems. "China always believes that mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit are the premise and basis for reaching an agreement," Xinhua quoted the Chinese official as saying. The US President on Sunday warned that he would raise tariffs on USD 200 billion of Chinese goods to 25 per cent from the current threshold at 10 per cent, as well as tax nearly all Chinese exports in the United States. He later stated that the United States loses nearly USD 500 billion dollars in trade with China every year, adding that they were not "going to be doing that anymore". The US had earlier abstained from enforcing an increase in tariffs on Chinese imports in March, citing the progress made in trade negotiations - an approach which seems to be changing in present times. Both Washington and Beijing had agreed to hold negotiations to resolve the trade war on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Argentina last year. Honouring this, the two countries have since held multiple rounds of talks, with Trump, until recently, commending the progress made by the two countries in working on a deal. The US administration has been reluctant both privately and publicly to remove tariffs on China as a way to provide leverage that Beijing will keep its promises as part of any negotiation. Trump's recent tweets are being perceived as a bid to ratchet up pressure on Beijing, as there are major sticking points which are yet to be hammered out by the two sides when they meet for negotiations again soon. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Gunmen stormed Counterpart International's building in the Shahr-e-Naw area here on Wednesday, in an attack whose responsibility has been claimed by Taliban. Heavy explosion and gunfire could be heard in the region in the morning, as gunfighting continues, according to TOLOnews. Nusrat Rahimi, a spokesman for Ministry of Interior Affairs, highlighted that the police surrounded the area and rescued around 150 people of the organisation. Even though casualties are feared, the authorities are yet to give an official figure. At least 15 wounded were rushed to the hospital, according to Wahid Mayar, the spokesman for Ministry of Public Health. The police are still trying to clear the building, as per Rahimi. TOLOnews' reporter Anisa Shaheed stated that an explosive-laden vehicle was seized from the attackers by the police. An unspecified number of gunmen stormed the US NGO's building on Wednesday morning. Ambulances, firefighters and military vehicles rushed near the attack scene immediately. This comes almost 20 days after an attack on a government building that left scores dead in Kabul. The US Ambassador to Afghanistan strongly condemned the Taliban attack, which comes at a time when there are rising calls for peace in the country. "Strongly condemn Taliban attack against US NGO in Kabul today. The targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists and supports the Afghan people. For this, it is the target of senseless violence. Thanks to Afghan Security Forces for rapid response," he tweeted. The UN mission in Afghanistan also denounced the attack on the international organisation, adding that the assault deliberately targets civilians. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked Delhi government to reconsider its stand on the parole plea filed by former Haryana CM OP Chautala. Justice AK Chawla asked the Delhi Government to communicate its decision on Chautala's plea and directed that a copy of the decision be communicated to the petitioner immediately. The court was hearing a plea filed by Chautala seeking parole for a period of three months as his wife is critically ill and is admitted to a hospital. Senior advocate N Hariharan and lawyer Amit Sahni appearing for Chautala told the court that as per the Parole and Furlough Guidelines, Delhi Prison Rules, a convict is entitled to avail parole twice a year for eight weeks and as Chautala has not availed parole for more than a year he is entitled to be released. Earlier, the Delhi Government's standing counsel Rahul Mehra strongly opposed the parole plea stating that Chautala was seeking parole for a political agenda as general elections were underway in the country. Mehra had contended that there are other family members who could take care of his wife. Chautala and his elder son Ajay are serving a ten-year jail term in a teachers' recruitment scam which took place in Haryana when he was the state's chief minister. The jail term was awarded by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court in the capital. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday attacked Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his party for being defenders of the illegal immigrants in the country and promised that if 'Modi government' is formed, then the whole expanse of India will be free from 'immigrant problems'. "The illegal immigrants are destroying the country like termites, but Rahul baba and company says they should not be thrown out. If you help form the Modi government once again, I assure you the country will be free of illegal trespassers from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Kolkata to Kutch," Shah said at an election rally here. He also said India's defence was a priority for the BJP. "Elections come and go; winning and losing is part of the deal. The protection of 'Maa Bharti' is our biggest concern and we leave nothing to chance when it comes to that." He also spoke about the 2016 Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) row where anti-India slogans were raised and said: "There is just one place for people who raise anti-India slogans like 'Bharat tere tukde ho', under the Modi government and it is in jail." Shah was campaigning on behalf of sitting MP Pashupati Nath Singh of BJP. Singh is contesting from Dhanbad against Congress candidate and three-time MP from Bihar's Darbhanga, Kirti Azad. Dhanbad will see polling on May 12 in the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With only three days left for the capital to vote, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday tore into political rivals, Congress and AAP, saying that one believes in the ideology of 'Naampanthi' while the other in that of Nakaampanthi'. "Country has witnessed four political cultures. First is 'Naampanthi' which a have vision only for their family and dynasty. The second is 'Vaampanthi' who only copy foreign ideas. The third is 'Daam and Daman Panthi', for whom the republic stands for rules of goon. The fourth is Vikaspanthi for whom Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas is supreme. Delhi is the country's only state which has seen the fifth model of the political culture which is 'Naakaam panthi'. Ones who say no to all work related to the development of the state and fail in all their endeavours. This model has breached the trust of people of the country", he said. Blaming AAP for the 'failure of Anna Aandolan', Modi further added, "They have committed the sin of failing a big movement against corruption. They broke the trust of crores of youth. These people had come to change the country but then got changed. They had come to provide a new system but became a synonym of Anarchism and chaos." "First they made objectionable comments about everyone and later crawled to apologise. These people took U-turn for personal ambitions. They displayed their culture by abusing every constitutional post of the country. They blamed others for all their failure and also supported the tukde-tukde gang. They also made contacts with anti-country people outside India," he added. PM Modi also accused the state government of not implementing public friendly initiatives coined by the Central government and said, "The Central government hospitals are providing treatment under Ayushman Bharat but the state government hospital is not giving this facility because the 'Nakaampanthi' government of Delhi hasn't implemented the scheme." He also slammed opposition parties for practicing 'dynastic politics' for decades. "The nation is looking at the 4th generation of naamdar family of Congress. But this dynastic mindset is not restricted to just one family. All those who have been close to this family have carried forward the flag of the dynasty. Dikshit's in Delhi, Hoodas in Haryana, from there till Bhajan Lal ji and Bansi Lal ji dynasty is going on. Beant Singh's family in Punjab, Gehlots and Pilots in Rajasthan. Scindias, Kamal Nath's family and Digvijaya Singh's family in MP are strengthening dynasty. Parties have been floated in names of Abdullahs and Muftis in Jammu and Kashmir, Mulayam Singh ji's family in UP and Lalu ji's family in Bihar. Dynasty is thriving through Pawars in Maharashtra, Deve Gowda ji's family in Karnataka, in Tamil Nadu by Karunanidhi ji's family, in Andhra by Chandrababu Naidu ji," he said. Hitting back at the Congress for raising objections over his remarks against former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, he said, "These (Congress) people want votes on the name of their ancestors but when we highlight their wrong doings it disturbs them. If they are seeking votes on anyone's name they will be held accountable for their actions." He also accused the Gandhi family of compromising security and using INS Virat as a "personal taxi" for 10 days for a vacation. "At the time when INS Virat was positioned for protection of maritime boundaries, it was sent to take Rajiv Gandhi and his family to an island for their holiday. Even his in-laws were onboard INS Virat. Is it not a compromise of security? Even Navy personnel were put on service of Rajiv Gandhi and his family while they were vacationing at the island. INS Virat was also stationed at the island for 10 days during that time." he said. Striking a personal chord with the locals, the Prime Minister said, "After becoming the Prime Minister, I have travelled to different parts of Delhi and NCR. Many times when I used to see barricades put around roads during my movement, I would feel bad about people getting affected. Moments like, when I meet people while travelling on metro, remain very close to my heart. Addressing the issue of pollution in the national capital, Prime minister underscored, "Pollution is a big challenge for Delhi. The solution to this lies in better use of technology and modern means of transport. People of Delhi will be getting the benefit of extension of the metro, electric mobility and next-generation infrastructure. Previously thousands of trucks bound for UP, Haryana and other states would pass through Delhi and would add to traffic jam and pollution. Those trucks can now get to their destination without crossing Delhi due to the construction of eastern peripheral and western peripheral." Modi also asserted that his government has started working to clean Yamuna River. All seven parliamentary constituencies of Delhi will be going to polls on May 8. The results will be announced on May 23. In 2014, general elections BJP have won all seven seats of Delhi in the parliamentary elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Relations between India and Israel will continue to grow and flourish regardless of which party comes to power following the 2019 general elections, said Israeli Ambassador to India Dr Ron Malka. Speaking to ANI, Malka said: "The relations between India and Israel are not between individuals but two countries. It does not matter who is in power. The chemistry between individuals or parties help, but it doesn't matter who is in power. Regardless of which party comes to power, the relations between the two countries will grow and flourish." On being asked how Israel will cooperate with India in countering terrorism in the wake of Masood Azhar being listed by the United Nations as a global terrorist, Malka replied, "It is not only the issue of India and Israel fighting terrorism, I think the should be united in the fight against terrorism. India and Israel are great friends, and as friends, we will support each other." Israel had extended its support to India following the Pulwama terror attack in February that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. Responding to speculations on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's possible visit to India, Malka said, "Prime Minister is interested to come. There were scheduling issues earlier, but he will come. The date is not fixed." In the past few years, India and Israel have made calibrated efforts towards strengthening their relationship. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference on Wednesday held a protest in Jammu against the killing of sarpanches in the state. The protestors have demanded security to sarpanches and a Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the killings. "More than 15 Sarpanches have been killed across the state. We demand the government of India and Governor of Jammu and Kashmir for an investigation into this case," said Anil Sharma, President of All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference. "Also, we demand that the government should provide security to those Sarpanches, who do not feel safe," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday demanded the resignation of Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot over the alleged gang rape of a Dalit woman in Alwar last month. He also sought a CBI probe into the case. Talking to ANI, Javadekar said: "A Dalit woman was gang-raped in Alwar district of Rajasthan. This incident was hidden by the Congress party. It was a shameful act on behalf of the grand old party. Chief Minister Gehlot must resign by owning up the responsibility for this heinous crime." "After the incident, the couple went to the police on May 2 but they did not register an FIR as they were instructed not to do so due to the Lok Sabha election on May 6. It exposes Congress' stand on Dalits. Chief Minister Gehlot should not only resign but also hand over the case to the CBI," he said. Javadekar said: "The attempts were made by the state government to hide the victimised couple. The accused have filmed the shameful act and have also asked for money. They have also made the act of crime viral." A woman was allegedly gang-raped and thrashed while her husband was beaten up by a group of five men in Alwar on April 30. Chief Minister Gehlot has asked DGP Kapil Garg to monitor the probe into the heinous crime. Police have arrested one person so far. As many as 14 teams have been constituted to nab other absconding culprits. When asked to comment on Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) chief Sam Pitroda's tweet about Delhi University (DU) teachers opposing Modi's comments on former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Javadekar said: "I do not know what Sam Pitroda is saying." "What I know is that Rajiv Gandhi came to power with a clean image. But his minister VP Singh protested and exposed the Bofors scam that led to his electoral fall," said Javadekar. "Rajiv Gandhi did vote bank and minoritism in Shah Bano case. He supported anti-Sikh riots in which 3,000 Sikhs were killed," he said, while referring to Gandhi's statement that "when a big tree falls, the earth shakes." The Union HRD Minister said: "What Gandhi did during his tenure is known to all. Therefore, Prime Minister Modi has made a correct remark on Gandhi and Sam Pitroda should answer to that." Asked to comment on Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Singh Baghel's comment that Prime Minister Modi has lost his mental balance, Javadekar said: "It is the Congress party, which has lost its patience and control." IOC chief Pitroda on Wednesday had slammed BJP for unnecessarily bringing into picture Rajiv Gandhi after 28 years of his death. "Prime Minister Modi-led BJP government has unnecessarily brought in Rajiv Gandhi into the picture after 28 years of his death. People like me, who have worked with Rajiv Gandhi, are very upset," Pitroda told media persons in Amritsar in Punjab. Rajiv Gandhi, who served as the 6th Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989, was assassinated on May 21, 1991 at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu, where he had gone to address a public meeting. It is worth mentioning the Election Commission of India on Tuesday gave clean chit to Prime Minister Modi for his 'Bhrashtachari No 1' remark against Rajiv Gandhi, which the Congress party had termed as the violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Jet Airways employees on Wednesday staged a silent protest at the Mumbai International Airport, seeking government's intervention to solve the crisis facing the airline. Sandip Kumar Dubey, an employee, said that the staffers were facing hardships as they had not received their salary for three to four months. "We are carrying out a silent protest here to convey our message to the government. Please listen to us. We have people dependent on us. We have not got our salary for three to four months while some senior employees have not been paid for five months," he told reporters. Dayal Shahdeo, another employee, said that the government or any authorised body should help revive the company so that it can go back to serve the people. "We request the government and any other authorised organisation to help revive Jet Airways at the earliest. We want to become the best airline, not only in India but in the world. We need just a little bit of support to achieve this," he said. Jet Airways had on April 17 suspended all domestic and international flights after failing to secure emergency funds from its lenders, the airline had said in the statement. The embattled airline said it took the decision to ground all aircraft after the State Bank of India on behalf of the consortium of Indian lenders conveyed that they were unable to consider its request for critical interim funding. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least two of the attackers were killed by the Afghan forces as the assault on Counterpart International's building here ended nearly after six hours on Wednesday, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior. Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. Both the attackers were killed in a clearance operation, as per Nasrat Rahimi, a spokesman for Ministry of Interior Affairs quoted by TOLOnews. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani labelled the attack as an "unforgivable crime." "Taliban should respond to the Afghan people's demand for peace; otherwise, they will be suppressed by the brave Defense and Security Forces of Afghanistan," Ghani said in a statement. At least 170 civilians were rescued from the office during the operation. "Civilians are not a target. UNAMA condemns Taliban deliberate targeting of civilian aid organization, Counterpart International, in civilian area of Kabul. Today's attack particularly deplorable, hitting civilians helping Afghans and taking place during Ramadan," the United Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said, condemning the attack. While casualties are feared, an official confirmation of the death toll is awaited. However, around 15 people were wounded in the assault. On Wednesday, gunmen stormed the US organisation's building in the Shahr-e-Naw area. Ambulances, firefighters and military vehicles rushed near the attack scene immediately. The attack comes nearly 20 days after another assault left dozens dead in the Afghan capital. The US Ambassador to Afghanistan strongly condemned the Taliban attack, which comes at a time when there are rising calls for peace in the country. "Strongly condemn Taliban attack against US NGO in Kabul today. The targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists and supports the Afghan people. For this, it is the target of senseless violence. Thanks to Afghan Security Forces for rapid response," he tweeted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a bid to gather support in the European Union (EU) against Khalifa Haftar's offensive, Libya's UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA), Fayez Sarraj, is poised to hold talks with French President Emmanuel Macron here on Wednesday. Libya has been largely divided into two factions ever since the death of dictator Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Khalifa's Libyan National Army-backed parliament controlled the east of Libya, while the UN-backed interim GNA governs Libya's western region from Tripoli. In early April, Haftar launched his offensive in order to gain control of Tripoli. Close to 400 people have lost their lives, while thousands have been displaced as LNA and GNA's forces clashed in the Libyan capital. Sarraj's latest negotiation is part of his tour around major European capitals to garner their support, as fighting continues in Tripoli, according to Sputnik. Sarraj held his first meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Tuesday towards this. The UN-backed government leader will lay emphasis on the humanitarian situation and highlight efforts to bring the conflict in Libya to an end. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mumbai police has arrested a doctor for allegedly raping a 21-year-old model. Senior police inspector at Versova police station, Ravindra Badgujar, said, "The accused and the victim had come into contact while she was working in a TV serial. They also lived together after knowing each other. We have registered a case on the complaint of the victim and investigation is underway." The accused doctor lives in Chembur area of the city and works in a pharmaceutical company. Police have registered an FIR under IPC sections 376 (rape), 377 (unnatural offences), 313 (Causing miscarriage without woman's consent), 420 (cheating) and 506 (criminal intimidation). Accused has been sent to police custody till May 10. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Investigation Agency (NIA) has questions Muhammed Faizal, an NRI from Doha, for suspected ISIS links. The person was called back from Doha for questioning. He is suspected to have connections with Riyaz Aboobacker who was arrested by NIA on April 29. Faizal reached Nedumbassery airport from where he was taken for questioning. Aboobacker was held in connection with the Kasargod ISIS terror module case. He is in the custody of NIA till May 10. According to the investigating agency, Aboobacker was allegedly planning suicide attacks at international tourist destinations in Kerala. He was arrested from Palakkad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least three people were killed and many others sustained injuries in an explosion outside Data Darbar, a major Sufi shrine, here on Wednesday. The blast targeted a vehicle carrying the Elite Force of Punjab Police, officials said. Sources from Mayo Hospital, where 18 of the injured are undergoing treatment, told Geo News that three bodies were brought to the hospital following the blast. Among those injured, four are said to be in critical condition. No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the blast as yet, which comes as the country marks the holy fasting month of Ramzan. The 11th-century Data Darbar is among the oldest shrines in South Asia and is visited by thousands every year. The shrine was targeted in a suicide attack in the year 2010 in which there were many casualties. Further details are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is wasting her time in campaigning in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, said Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal here on Wednesday, while accusing her of not going to places where the BJP is in a direct fight. "She (Priyanka Gandhi) is wasting her time. Why doesn't she campaign in Rajasthan and MP? She is doing rallies in UP against SP-BSP. She is doing rallies in Delhi against AAP. Both the brother and the sister are not going to those places where there is a direct fight with the BJP," he told reporters here. Referring to Prime Minister Modi's public meeting at Ram Leela ground today at 5 pm, Chief Minister Kejriwal said: "Today the PM is coming to Ram Leela ground for a public meeting at 5 pm. He should answer our three questions. Firstly, why did he do sealing in Delhi? Secondly, why did PM Modi go back on his promise to make Delhi a full-fledged state? Thirdly, what is PM Modi's relation with Pakistan PM Imran Khan? Why does Khan want Modi to become the Prime Minister of India once again," he asked. Talking about good works being done by his government in unauthoriesed colonies in the capital, Kejriwal said: "These people tried to create a lot of pressure on us when I was busy in inaugurating a lot of sewerage works in unauthorised colonies. They said that we are wasting money by investing in works for the unauthorised colonies. I said to them that the people live in unauthorised colonies and not animals. I will save them till there is even an ounce of life left in me," he said. "We will make the unauthorised colonies liveable and upgrade their infrastructure facilities. We want to give them a life of dignity. We want the people to give us the power to help create an environment feasible for a better Delhi," added the Chief Minister. Delhi, where seven parliamentary seats are at stake, goes to poll on May 12 in the sixth phase of seven-phased Lok Sabha elections. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tendered an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court for wrongly attributing his "chowkidar chor hai" remark to the apex court and sought closure of the contempt proceedings against him. In a three-page affidavit, Gandhi said he holds the court in "highest esteem and respect". The Congress chief submitted that he "has never sought or intended to, directly or indirectly, commit any act that interferes with the process of administration of justice". Gandhi pleaded that the court may "accept the instant affidavit and close the present contempt proceedings". Senior lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who appeared for the Congress president, had told a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi on April 30 that Gandhi will tender an apology. The bench had given time till May 6 to the Congress chief for filing a fresh affidavit for attributing the "chowkidar chor hai" remark to the apex court's April 10 Rafale case order. The court had taken objection to his first affidavit in which he had expressed "regret" (for the attribution of the remark) within brackets. The case has been filed by BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday attacked Congress over its claim of six surgical strikes having been conducted during the UPA rule, saying an RTI has revealed that first such operation was carried out in 2016 during the prime ministership of Narendra Modi. "According to an RTI, the first surgical strike happened in 2016," he said, addressing a rally here. "They say we also did surgical strikes. Who stopped you from announcing these. Do you feel ashamed of praising the armed forces. Why you did not tell this to the people of India. Is the government not answerable?" the BJP leader said. Earlier this month, Congress leader Rajiv Shukla had claimed that six surgical strikes were conducted during former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's tenure from 2004 to 2014. Singh also slammed Congress over its poll promise to scrap the sedition law, saying, "The party wants to remove the statute to please a few people". "Congress says that the sedition law is irrelevant and bad but you people tell me that if someone is involved in such practices, should they be spared? They are doing this to favour a few people. I want to assure you that if we come back to power, we would make this law so strong that no such person can be spared," he said. The party, in its manifesto, has made the poll promise to scrap the sedition law and also strike down certain provisions of the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) if voted to power. On the achievements of the NDA government, Singh said, "The Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojna (PMAY) was launched by Congress. During its rule from 2008-2014, they gave 25 lakh houses to the people while our government from 2014-2018 handed over 1.30 crore houses to the public." The BJP-led government in its five-year tenure provided 13.5 crore gas connection as compared to a total of 12 crore such connections by the previous government, the Home Minister said. Singh said, "During the tenure of the previous governments, everyone and anyone could threaten us. It is India's culture that we have never attacked anybody in the first go and we never occupied even a single inch land belonging to any other country but it is not our cowardice. We will not trouble anyone but if someone troubles us we will not leave them either," Singh said. Referring to the Pulwama attack, he said, "We all know what Pakistan did in Pulwama. The Prime Minister held a meeting immediately after the incident, took a decision and gave relevant orders following which you saw our Air Force striking terrorists deep into Pakistani territory." "Congress and other opposition parties want to know how many terrorists were killed. I want to ask do make forces count bodies," he said. "Being the Home Minister of the country, I want to say the intelligence department is under me only. I want to assure you that whatever operation happened it was based on credible intelligence input," Singh said "They say that the security forces killed, then why the credit is going to the Prime Minister. I am asking that when Indira Gandhi in 1971 divided Pakistan into two halves and Bangladesh was formed, Atal Bihari Vajyapee as an opposition member of Parliament lauded Indira Gandhi. This should be the attitude of the opposition," he said. "If Indira Gandhi can be praised, then why Prime Minister Modi cannot be hailed for the post-Pulwama operation," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) One of the biggest challenges with breast cancer is the delayed diagnosis. To help doctors identify at-risk patients early, researchers are taking the help of artificial intelligence. MIT researchers have built a new deep learning model that can predict from a mammogram if a patient is likely to develop breast cancer in the future. As their official release explains, the system has been trained on mammograms and known outcomes from over 60,000 patients to learn the subtle patterns in breast tissue. The AI was able to accurately access 31 per cent of all cancer patients in its highest-risk compared to 18 per cent by traditional models. Systems like these could help doctors in early diagnosis, much before the disease actually develops. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) People with lower incomes may be more likely to have obesity as a result of psychological distress that gives rise to emotional eating, recent findings suggest. As part of the latest study, as team of researchers explored whether the relationship between lower socioeconomic status (SES) and obesity is explained by psychological distress and subsequent emotional eating as a coping strategy. 150 participants from North West England from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds completed questionnaires measuring psychological distress, emotional eating and resilience. They reported their income and education level as an indicator of socioeconomic status and their height and weight in order to calculate body mass index (BMI). The findings were published in the Journal of Obesity. Researchers found that lower SES was associated with higher psychological distress, and higher distress was associated with higher emotional eating, which in turn predicted higher BMI. The study showed that psychological distress alone did not facilitate a relationship between lower SES and BMI. According to the researchers, the findings suggest that experiencing psychological distress associated with living in lower socio-economic circumstances is associated with emotional eating to cope which in turn is associated with obesity. "The reason for socioeconomic disparities in obesity levels is often attributed to the greater availability of low-cost, calorie-dense foods in more deprived areas relative to more affluent neighbourhoods. However, there is limited evidence for an association between local food environments and obesity, indicating psychological and emotional factors may also play a role," said Charlotte Hardman, lead researcher of the study. The study also revealed an unexpected finding. Higher SES was also associated with emotional eating. However, this pathway was not in response to significant psychological distress. Researchers suggest that these findings indicate an important role for psychological and emotional factors in eating behaviour and body weight regulation, particularly for those of lower SES. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A gang of robbers looted around 58 lakh rupees from a cash van by diverting the attention of security guard and bank staff accompanying the vehicle. The cash was meant to be filled in Axis Bank ATM in Vanasthalipuram area on Tuesday. The robbers stole around Rs 58 lakhs from the vehicle and fled away in a car from the spot. The gang had diverted the attention of the security guard and staff by pointing to the notes strewn on the other side of the vehicle, police said. Speaking to ANI over the phone, Sunpreet Singh, DCP, LB Nagar, said, "On Tuesday afternoon around five to six persons diverted the attention of the security guard and the staff of the cash transporting vehicle, who came to load cash in an AXIS Bank ATM at Vanasthalipuram area." "The accused had diverted the attention of the security guard and staff by saying that their money has fallen on the other side of their vehicle following which they stole a box consisting of 58 lakh rupees from the vehicle and fled away in a car from the spot," he added. A case has been registered under relevant sections of Indian Penal Code (IPC) and special teams have been formed to nab the accused persons. "We have also recovered the nearby CCTV footage and verifying it," Singh added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Election Commission of India (ECI) to examine by Thursday the plea filed by former BSF constable Tej Bahadur Yadav on the rejection of his nomination as a candidate from Varanasi in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Yadav was fielded as Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi. Prior to that, he was in the fray as an independent candidate. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Deepak Gupta told the ECI's advocate Rakesh Dwivedi to take instruction on the issue and inform the court by tomorrow the commission's view on Yadav's plea. Through his plea, Yadav had sought direction to quash the Returning Officer's decision of cancelling his nomination as a candidate in the Lok Sabha elections. Talking to media, Yadav's lawyer Prashant Bhushan said, "The Supreme Court has asked the Election Commission to examine the matter and decide on it by Thursday. The Supreme Court today heard the petition of Tej Bahadur Yadav, the jawan who was dismissed from service on the ground that he had complained about substandard food." Bhushan continued, "I pointed out though that his dismissal order made it clear that he had not been dismissed for disloyalty or corruption, instead he was dismissed only for not agreeing to eat the food that was being given to him." "Still, the Returning Officer insisted that he should produce a certificate from the election commission to the effect that he has not been dismissed on disloyalty or corruption," added Bhushan. "So the apex court has asked ECI to look into the matter and give its response by tomorrow and the case will be heard tomorrow." On May 6, Yadav had filed a writ petition in the apex court against the rejection of his nomination from Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency, alleging foul play. On May 1, Yadav's candidature was rejected after he failed to submit a certificate on whether or not he was dismissed from the service for corruption or disloyalty to the government based on directions from Returning Officer Surendra Singh. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two civilians were injured after terrorists opened fire in Zainapora area of the district here on Wednesday, said officials. The injured were rushed to a nearby hospital. More details of the incident are awaited. Earlier in the day, a terrorist hideout was busted by security forces at a village in Ganderbal district. Two wireless walkie-talkie sets and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, eight detonators and two grenade pins, were recovered from the site. On May 6, a civilian was injured in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Degwar village of state's Poonch district. The civilian received bullet injury on his head during ceasefire violation that took place on Sunday at around 8:30 pm. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Millions of voters in South Africa are heading to polling booths on Wednesday to cast their ballot in the national and provincial elections. Incumbent president Cyril Ramaphosa, who assumed power last year, has promised to crack down on corruption in the ruling African National Congress (ANC). The party faced a steep decline in support in the last local election in 2016, when it lost some key cities to opposition parties, reported CNN. The Nelson Mandela party is also facing challenge from an insurgent radical party from the left, led by a former ANC member Julius Malema. ANC also faces widespread apathy among voters born after apartheid, known as the born-free generation. Despite the said challenges, opinion polls have predicted that ANC will again win a majority, according to media reports. However, analysts believe that its margin of victory will fall. "I think the ANC is going to be the biggest loser in this election because the ANC is not going to enjoy the majority as it has been enjoying before," said Xolani Dube, a political analyst. South Africa has a parliamentary system of government. The national assembly consists of 400 members. The final results of the election will be announced on Saturday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said if the NDA government comes back to power, he will put the 'shahenshah' who looted farmers behind bars within the next five years. "Whenever there was Congress' government in Centre and Haryana, they took away the land of farmers at low rates. With your blessings, this Chowkidar has taken those who looted farmers to the court. They are going around seeking bail. They are going to ED offices. They used to think that they are 'shahenshahs' (emperor) and nobody can touch them. Now they are nervous. I have already taken them to the door of the jail, give me your blessings and I'll put them in jail within next five years," Modi said in an apparent reference to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra, who is currently facing trial in a land deal case. Modi, while addressing the gathering here, also said those who have looted the country "will have to pay back." The Prime Minister went on to criticise the Congress over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. "In 1984, in different parts of the country including Delhi, Punjab and Haryana thousands of our Sikh brothers and sisters were killed at the behest of the Congress family," he said. "For 34 years, a dozen of commissions were made, but justice was not given to the Sikh community. Your 'Chowkidar' had promised to punish those involved in the 1984 riots. I am happy that the process to punish them has begun." Modi went on to say, "This shameless Congress is still providing benefits to these tainted people who were involved in committing that sin. They even made one of those involved in the riots as the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. From this, it is clear that Congress is not bothered about your feelings." He also accused the Congress of not making enough efforts at the time of Independence to ensure that Kartarpur Sahib is a part of India. "Congress' history is about ignoring your emotions. Otherwise, there was no reason why Kartarpur Sahib is in Pakistan. At the time of partition, if they would have made a little effort then Kartarpur Sahib would have been in India... But our government is making efforts to ensure that people who go to seek blessing from Kartarpur Sahib don't face any problem. For this, the Kartarpur Sahib corridor is being made," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Key benchmarks extended losses and hit fresh intraday low in afternoon trade. At 13:20 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, was down 388.88 points or 1.02% at 37,887.75. The Nifty 50 index was down 95.55 points or 0.83% at 11,402.35. Sentiment was weak amid worries of an unsuccessful US-China trade negotiation. The Sensex was trading below the psychological 38,000 level after moving above and below that level in intraday trade. Key indices edged lower in early trade on negative Asian stocks. Indices extended fall in morning trade. Stocks gyrated in negative zone in mid-morning trade. Indices extended losses in afternoon trade. The S&P BSE Mid-Cap index was down 0.63%. The S&P BSE Small-Cap index was down 0.76%. The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was weak. On the BSE, 662 shares rose and 1614 shares fell. A total of 122 shares were unchanged. Reliance Industries (down 2.57%), Tata Motors (down 2.3%), Yes Bank (down 1.64%), Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (down 1.54%), HDFC (down 1.41%), Bajaj Finance (down 1.36%) and HDFC Bank (down 1.31%), were the major Sensex losers. Power Grid Corporation of India (up 0.44%), Coal India (up 0.44%), HCL Technologies (up 0.18%) and Infosys (up 0.02%), were the major Sensex gainers. Vedanta fell 3.92% to Rs 157 after consolidated net profit fell 46% to Rs 2,615 crore on 15% decline in net sales to Rs 23,092 crore in Q4 March 2019 over Q4 March 2018. The result was announced after market hours yesterday, 7 May 2019. Overseas, most European shares were trading higher Wednesday. Asian equities tracked Wall Street's slide on Wednesday as the latest developments in the US-China trade conflict fanned fresh fears about global growth. US stocks dropped sharply Tuesday, building on the previous day's decline after US officials confirmed that tariffs on imported goods from China could be raised by the end of the week. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer reportedly said Monday that the Trump administration will increase tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods early Friday from 10% to 25%. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will travel to Washington for a two-day meet beginning Thursday in a last ditch attempt to avoid a sharp increase in tariff on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An 18-year-old student was killed and eight other were injured when two students opened fire inside a school in Denver city of the US state of Colorado, authorities said. The two suspects were apprehended after the shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday, said Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock. Out of the two, the adult suspect was named as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. They both are believed to be students at the school, Spurlock was cited as saying by CNN. The shooting started in the high school just before 2 p.m. The suspects walked into the school and "got deep inside the school," engaging students in two separate classrooms. One student, an 18-year-old male, was killed in the school, said Deputy Cocha Heyden, a spokeswoman for the sheriff's office. The incident rattled an area that just marked the 20th anniversary of the deadly shooting at Columbine High School, about seven miles away from the STEM school. Thirteen people were gunned by two teenagers in the Columbine attack. Holly Nicholson-Kluth, undersheriff for the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, said the Tuesday shooting started in the middle school portion of the campus and an administrator called the police after hearing shots. Spurlock said that a handgun was used in the attack and that the suspects were "not on the radar" of law enforcement. "Tragically, this community (in Colorado) and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence," the White House said in a statement. Authorities were working to obtain search warrants for the suspects' homes, officials said. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The airstrike by the Indian Air Force at the terror training camp at Pakistan's Balakot on February 26 killed between 130 to 170 JeM terrorists, according to an Italian freelance journalist. Quoting local sources, Francesca Marino wrote on Stringerasia that after the IAF strike at around 3.30 a.m., a Pakistan Army unit arrived at their location from their camp in Shinkiari at around 6 a.m., two and a half hours later. "Immediately after the Army unit's arrival, the injured were taken to a Harkat-ul-Mujahideen camp, located in Shinkiari and treated by Pakistan Army doctors. "The numbers estimated (to be killed) have ranged from 130-170, including those who have died during treatment," she said, adding that around 45 were still undergoing treatment in this camp, while around 20 have died during treatment. Those who have recovered were still in custody of the Army and have not been discharged, she wrote on the site, which identified her as a freelance journalist, specialising in South Asian affairs. Marino added that from different inputs from her sources over the last several weeks, it could be safely said that the impact of the strike immediately killed a large number of JeM cadres. Giving details about those killed, she said that they included 11 trainers, ranging from bomb-making to to use of weapons. Two of these trainers were from Afghanistan. To prevent the news on the fatalities leaking through family members, the Italian journalist wrote that a group of JeM members visited the families and handed over cash compensation to them. "The camp area is still under the control of the Army, with a Captain rank officer of the Mujahid battalion in command. The access to the dust track leading to the camp is still restricted, even to the local police," she wrote. Marino also said that there was also talk about the JeM leadership having assured its cadres that the group would take its revenge when the time was ripe. --IANS rin/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was cleared by the country's Supreme Court of blasphemy charges last year after spending eight years on death row, has left Pakistan and arrived in Canada to reunite with her family, her lawyer and government officials said on Wednesday. The mother of five left for Canada on Tuesday and landed there after leaving Pakistan where she faced death threats from Islamist groups despite being exonerated by the apex court. "Asia Bibi reached Canada last night. She left Pakistan with her husband yesterday after the government permitted her to leave. Although it took long, finally she is safe, Alhamdulillah (Thank God)," her lawyer Saif ul Malook told Efe news. Pakistan's Dawn online cited a Foreign Office source as saying that "Aasia Bibi left on her independent will with full support and security from the Pakistani government". Another source from the Foreign Affairs Ministry told Efe news: "There was a certain procedure which led to the delay for her to leave the country... but all the arrangements were (made) by the government for her safe exit. "She is a free citizen and she could move wherever she wanted to," said the source. One of Bibi's close aides told Efe over phone that Bibi and her family members have been offered asylum in Canada. "The government says that they had to manage some internal issues with the religious parties and with other bodies so it took that long for her to leave the country," the aide said. Bibi was accused of insulting Prophet Mohammad during a row with her neighbours in 2009. A court sentenced her to death in 2010 under Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws, sparking widespread outrage from national and international human rights groups. She was released from prison in November 2018 after being acquitted by the Supreme Court of blasphemy charges on October 31. Her acquittal triggered widespread protests by religious hardliners in the country where blasphemy is a sensitive issue with 97 per cent of Pakistan's 180 million inhabitants being Muslims. Even before Bibi's conviction was overturned, far-right Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) vowed to take to the streets if she was freed. Massive protests paralyzed the country for three days after the ruling was announced. The government allowed the protesters to file a review in the top court, which stopped Bibi from leaving the country until the verdict was announced. The apex court on January 29 rejected the appeal against the acquittal, removing the last obstacle to her freedom and possible exit from the country. International and local rights groups have been demanding reforms of the controversial blasphemy laws, which were introduced by the military dictator General Zia-ul-Haq in the 1980s. It is widely believed that such laws are often misused to settle disputes and for personal vendettas. --IANS soni/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was cleared by the Supreme Court of blasphemy charges last year after spending eight years on death row, has left the country, officials said on Wednesday. "Aasia Bibi has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will," Dawn online reported citing a Foreign Office source. Though the Pakistani media reports did not specify where Bibi has gone or when she left, CNN quoted her lawyer Saif Ul Malook as saying that she is in Canada. The mother of five from Pakistan's Punjab province was taken out of the country after repeated death threats from religious extremists following the quashing of her conviction for blasphemy. She has been separated from her family and living in safe houses since the 2018 overturning of the sentence. Her children are already in Canada. Bibi was convicted in 2010 and sentenced to hang after she was accused of insulting the Prophet Mohammed during a row with her neighbours. The apex court's quashing of Bibi's sentence last October led to violent protests by religious hardliners who support strong blasphemy laws, while more liberal sections of society urged her release. Before Bibi's conviction was overturned, far-right Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) vowed to take to the streets if she was freed. Massive protests paralyzed the country for three days after the ruling was announced. The group went on the rampage when Bibi's was acquitted, with protesters jamming into cities, attacking public property and burning cars. --IANS soni/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In an attempt to augment employee skills, Microsoft has announced a new Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled feature for Word that would suggest rewrites for complex sentences along with other necessary edits to make sure language being used is gender inclusive. Explaing the in a blog-post on Tuesday the company said that, "Writing requires a dash of uniquely human creativity and AI alone cannot do it for us but it already is helping us do things like make sure we spell words correctly and use correct grammar." "You don't need to search online to find an alternative way to express a phrase," said Zhang Li, Senior Programme Manager, Microsoft Office team, explaining that the intelligence service will surface suggestions within the document. The announcement was first made at Microsoft's Build 2019 conference that is going on in Seattle. At the event, the software giant also announced the availability of Microsoft Search -- which is an enterprise search platform from the company. "The technology brings access to the web and work into a single search experience. Beginning on May 28, Microsoft Search will move to availability," John Roach. Microsoft executive confirmed in a blog-post. In addition, the Windows-maker mentioned that its Edge browser team is also experimenting with a feature called "Collections" that allows users to compile and organise content as they browse the internet in their open browser window and intelligently share the compiled content via email or export it to Excel or Word. --IANS rp/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has thanked Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju for supporting him amid a row over his citizenship and has committed himself to the cause of the government-led fund-raising initiative Bharat Ke Veer. "Thank you so much Kiren Rijiju Sir, and I apologize for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to Bharat Ke Veer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what," Akshay tweeted. His post comes days after Rijiju tweeted in support of the actor, who faced the fury of trolls when his citizenship was questioned. "Dear Akshay Kumarji, no one can question your patriotism. Your motivation to our armed forces personnel and the way you generated funds for our martyrs through Bharat Ke Veer programme will remain an example for every patriotic Indian," Rijiju tweeted on May 3. The controversy blew up as Akshay did not vote in the Lok Sabha elections. Akshay holds a Canadian citizenship and had expressed "disappointment" that his citizenship issue is "constantly dragged into needless controversy". He wrote: "I really don't understand the unwarranted interest and negativity about my citizenship. I have never hidden or denied that I hold a Canadian passport. It is also equally true that I have not visited Canada in the last seven years. I work in India, and pay all my taxes in India. He added: "While all these years, I have never needed to prove my love for India to anyone, I find it disappointing that my citizenship issue is constantly dragged into needless controversy, a matter that is personal, legal and non-political, and of no consequence to others. "Lastly, I would like to continue contributing in my small way to the causes that I believe in and make India stronger and stronger." --IANS rb/nn/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least seven students were injured in a shooting Tuesday afternoon at a school near Denver, capital of the US western state of Colorado, local police said. "7 possibly 8 students have been injured. Two shooters in custody. SWAT still clearing school," Douglas County Sheriff's Office tweeted about two hours after the incident. The reports of shots fired came at 1:53 p.m. (local time), according to Douglas County Sheriff's Office, which also confirmed later that two suspects were in custody so far, the Xinhua news agency reported. Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth was quoted by the Denver Post as saying that authorities did not believe another suspect was still in the school, however deputies were still going room to room at the school, clearing the building. She said it wasn't yet known whether the suspects were students at the school and she did not disclose the details of the shooting, just saying that when police entered the school, they found some sort of "struggle." Meanwhile, Wendy Forbes, spokeswoman for Littleton Adventist Hospital, briefed reporters that five patients were transported the hospital, four of them in serious condition while one in fair condition. The incident occurred at STEM School Highlands Ranch, located about 32 kilometers south from the Denver downtown. There are about 1,850 students in the K-12 charter school. --IANS rs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A BJP delegation approached the Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday to demand stringent action against those who attacked the convoy of Assam Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and the party's West Bengal unit President Dilip Ghosh. In a complaint to West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Ariz Aftab, Special Observer Ajay V. Nayak, Special Police Observer Vivek Dube, state BJP Vice President Jayprakash Majumdar and members of the coordination cell named Trinamool Congress MLA Ranajit Mondal and his supporters for Tuesday's "barbaric and murderous attack". According to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, the convoy was attacked soon after it crossed the Tekhali bridge and reached Tentultala in Khejuri in Purba Medinipur district. Prior to that, the convoy was attacked during the road show in Kunjapur where the Trinamool supporters pelted stones and brandished firearms. "Scores of BJP supporters were beaten up mercilessly including BJP candidate Debashish Samanta," the delegation said. Majumdar also alleged that the Trinamool activists had surrounded the police station to prevent them from filing complaints. The incidents were pre-planned and in collusion with the police, the delegation said. "We strongly demand immediate replacement of East Midnapore District Magistrate, Superintendent of Police, Sub-Divisional Police Officer of the area and Inspector-in-charge of Khejuri Police Station," Majumdar said. He further mentioned that they have requested for immediate action against Mondal and all other culprits who can be easily identified from the video footage they had submitted to the EC. "We want Central Armed Police Forces in adequate numbers for area domination and booth protection of Tamluk and Kanthi Lok Sabha constituencies," Majumdar added. --IANS bnd/ssp/mag/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least two policemen were killed in a blast outside Lahores Data Darbar. The Mayo Hospital here confirmed the two deaths to the media and adding that 15 others were injured. Four to five of them are critical. The blast reportedly occurred near a mobile van of the Pakistan police Elite Force. The toll was expected to rise, Samaa TV said. Rescue teams said some passers-by were injured in the blast as well. According to DawnNewsTV, the nature of the explosion has not yet been ascertained and a rescue operation was underway. --IANS in/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least eight people were killed and 25 injured in a suicide bombing targeting a police patrol near a Sufi shrine in Pakistan's Lahore city on Wednesday, police said. Five police officers were among those killed in the blast near the Data Darbar Sufi shrine, one of the largest in South Asia, Dawn online reported. The explosion, which occurred at around 8.45 a.m., targeted a Elite Force of Punjab Police vehicle parked near the shrine's Gate 2, the entrance for female visitors. "Eight people, including five policemen, were killed and 25 are injured, including police officials," Punjab Police chief Arif Nawaz Khan told the media. He added that the police were "100 per cent" the target of the attack. The impact of the blast shattered windows in nearby vehicles and buildings, bystanders said. Police spokesperson Nayab Haider told Geo News that initial investigation suggested that the incident was a suicide bombing and the bomb contained seven kg of explosive material. No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion. Lahore Deputy Commissioner Saleha Saeed told the media that one of the bodies brought to a hospital was that of the suspected attacker. Entry to the Data Darbar was sealed in the aftermath of the attack and security measures were heightened at religious sites in the city in the month of Ramzan. Prime Minister Imran Khan "expressed grief over the loss of precious lives". Data Darbar, which dates back to the 11th century, was also targeted in a 2010 suicide attack that killed more than 40 people. --IANS soni/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China on Wednesday urged all parties to uphold the Iranian nuclear deal after Tehran announced to partially pull out of the pact by resuming high uranium enrichment. Beijing, a party to the pact inked in 2015, also said it regretted the unilateral actions by the US against Iran that pushed Tehran to the brink of withdrawing from the agreement. "Upholding and implementing the joint commission of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is the common responsibility of all the parties. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and strengthen dialogue and avoid escalation of tensions," said Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Geng Shuang. "We will be in communication with all parties to continue to uphold the treaty and the legitimate rights of Iran." In a televised speech, Iran's President Hasan Rouhani said Tehran was reducing its own commitments under the agreement and would no longer respect limits on its reserves of low-enriched uranium. "JCPOA is a multilateral treaty endorsed by the Security Council. It is vital to the international non-proliferation regime, peace and stability in the Middle East. Thus, it should it be implemented effectively and fully," Geng said. "China applauds Iran's faithful implementation of the JCPOA so far... and firmly opposes the US' unilateral sanctions. We regret the US actions that have escalated the tensions surrounding the Iranian nuclear issue," he added. Iran had signed the landmark nuclear deal with the US, Russia, China, France and the UK plus Germany, aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief. The US pulled out of the deal last year, resuming sanctions against Iran. Now, exactly after a year of the US withdrawing from the deal, Tehran said it will resume high-level uranium enrichment if global powers fail to keep their commitments within the next 60 days. --IANS gsh/soni/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) China on Wednesday said that it would hit back if the US increased tariffs from 10 per cent to 25 per cent on Chinese goods worth $200 billion. In a late night post, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said: "The escalation of trade friction is not in the interest of the people of the two countries and the people of the world." "The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the US tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures," the statement post.A China's top trade envoy will hold talks with his US counterpart Robert Lighthizer in Washington to hammer out a deal to prevent the trade war. However, an immediate solution to the crisis is highly unlikely as US President Donald Trump's surprise decision to crank up levies on Chinese goods has dealt a blow to the progress in trade talks made in the past. The two largest economies in the world have been locked in a bruising trade war since July last year after Trump slapped an additional 25 per cent tarrif on an initial $50 billion of Chinese goods. The US President followed it through with another 10 percent on an additional $200 billion in products in September. It is the levies imposed in September last year that Trump has now threatened to increase to 25 per cent from Friday.(The writer can be contacted at gaurav.s@ians.in) --IANS gsh/arm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The DMK on Wednesday asked the Election Commission to clarify on the suspicious movements of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines to Theni and Erode on Tuesday. In a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner and Chief Electoral Officer of Tamil Nadu, DMK's Organising Secretary and MP R.S. Bharathi also asked them the purpose of shifting the machines. According to Bharathi, about 50 EVMs were brought to the office of Thesildar at Theni from Coimbatore without any intimation to the candidates who had contested in the Theni Lok Sabha constituency and in the by-elections for Periakulam and Andipatti Assembly seats. He said even the District Collector, being the District Electoral Officer, or the officials available in the Thesildar's office were not able to clarify on the EVMs' movements, raising mistrust on the Election Commission's activity during the late hours on Tuesday. Bharathi said the Chief Electoral Officer told the media that the EVMs were shifted on the orders of the Election Commission, expecting re-poll in certain polling centres, and 20 VVPATs have also been moved to Erode. "It is not known on whose request pe-polling is being processed. In fact, no affirmative order is communicated by the Election Commission on the request made our DMK party for re-polling in 10 polling booths in Pappireddypatti within Dharmapuri constituency," Bharathi said. "While so, moving EVMs and VVPATs to the places, where re-poll is not asked for, creates strong doubts on the activities of the Election Commission. What is the modus operandi behind these suspicious moves of EVMs and VVPAT shall be clearly and transparently explained by the Election Commission. Otherwise, the trust on the Election Commission would further diminish," Bharathi said. He also asked the poll body to furnish details of EVMs and VVPATs now shifted to Theni and Erode and not to shift any more such machines from any place to any place in Tamil Nadu without prior intimation to political parties. --IANS vj/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress on Wednesday demanded an apology from the Goa Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sardesai for saying that he would weaponise the BJP youth cadres, if domicile provisions relating to eligibility for government jobs in the state were diluted. "Vijai Sardesai says that we will weaponise the youth. If weapons are given in the hands of the youth, who do they want them to shoot. This is condemnable. Sardesai has to apologise," the All India Mahila Congress General Secretary Apsara Reddy told a press conference at the party's state headquarters here. "This is against Goa's policy. Goa is about togetherness, Goa is about love. Goa is about people. Goa is celebrated for its peace loving welcoming culture. These statements show that leaders are trying to create an atmosphere of fear," Reddy added. Speaking at an event on Tuesday, Sardesai, who heads the ruling alliance partner Goa Forward party, had said that if the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led coalition government, of which he is a part, does not revisit its plans to dilute the domicile eligibility norm for non-administrative government jobs, he would weaponise the youth in his party to pressurise the state administration. "And if our government has made a mistake then the Goa Forward youth, we will back them fully. We will weaponise them. I am going controversially to say this..that we will weaponise them to see that 'Goenkarponn' (Goanness) is protected," Sardesai had said. --IANS maya/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The national General Secretary of the All India Mahila Congress, Apsara Reddy, on Wednesday backed the candidature of her party's candidate for the May 19 Panaji Assembly bypoll, who was chargesheeted in 2018 for allegedly raping a minor girl. Addressing a press conference at the party's state headquarters here, Reddy said that Atanasio (Babush) Monserrate "truly believed in putting women in leadership roles," referring to the fact that his wife Jennifer was a Congress MLA from Taleigao. When she was asked to comment on the string of criminal cases against Monserrate, including for the alleged rape of a minor girl in 2016 for which he was chargesheeted in 2018, Reddy said that cases were often foisted on politicians who were popular. "When a political candidate becomes very popular, many cases are foisted on him. I am not saying he is innocent. I am not saying he is guilty either. Wait till the law takes its own course. It is wrong to paint a person in one way based on conjecture, rumour and media reports," Reddy said. Last year Monserrate was chargesheeted under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 506 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act. Meanwhile, the state BJP on Wednesday said that Monserrate, as well as the Congress, should publish a list of crimes in which he was involved in print media as mandated by the electoral rules. "We demand that they (Congress) publish his long list of crimes in the media so that people know their options well before voting," BJP spokesperson Damodar Naik said. Monserrate is pitted against Sidharth Kuncalienkar of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Subhash Velingkar of the Goa Suraksha Manch and Valmiki Naik of the Aam Aadmi Party. --IANS maya/arm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked the city government to consider, within a week, former Haryana Chief Minister O.P. Chautala's plea seeking parole. Justice A.K. Chawla asked the government to communicate its decision to him immediately thereafter. The court was hearing Chautala's plea seeking parole for a period of three months as his wife is critically ill and admitted in a hospital. Chautala's counsel N. Hariharan and lawyer Amit Sahni told the court that as per the Parole and Furlough Guidelines, of the Delhi Prison Rules, a convict is entitled to avail parole twice a year for eight weeks and as Chautala has not availed parole for more than one year, he is entitled to be released on parole. Chautala and his elder son Ajay were convicted in the JBT (junior basic teacher) recruitment scam in January 2013 by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court here and sentenced to 10 years in prison. --IANS ak/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Corporate lobbyist Deepak Talwar on Wednesday moved his bail plea in the Delhi High Court in connection with a case related to irregular seat-sharing on Air India's profitable routes. Talwar's bail application will be heard by Justice Chnader Shekhar on Thursday. Earlier in the day, the Delhi High Court asked the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to file a reply on Deepak Talwar's son Aditya Talwar's plea challenging a money laundering case filed against him. The court has asked Aditya Talwar to approach the concerned trial court for cancellation of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him by the trial court. On May 1, a trial court issued the NBW against Aditya Talwar in a case related to irregular seat-sharing on Air India's profitable routes after taking cognizance of the charge sheet filed by the ED. Deepak Talwar has been accused by the ED of acting as a middleman in negotiations to favour foreign private airlines in the matter of seat-sharing on Air India's profitable routes. The ED is also probing various other cases related to money laundering against Deepak Talwar, who was deported from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on January 30. --IANS ak/arm (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi Excise Department has deployed its teams across the city to keep a tab on illegal movement of liquor that can be used to influence voters in the run-up to polling for seven Lok Sabha seats on Sunday. An effective surveillance and checks to restrict the illegal movement of liquor is being kept round the clock with the help of local police, it said in a statement. It said it seized 2,808 bottles of illicit liquor from four vehicles on Tuesday and held nine people in this case. The Department has made an appeal to people to share information regarding illegal sale and supply of illicit liquor. --IANS spk/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Election Commission plans to use satellite phones and drones to ensure security in the Junglemahal area, a Maoist stronghold, which is slated to hold the Lok Sabha polls on May 12, sources said on Monday. Election Commission sources said all booths in Jhargram Lok Sabha seat will be manned by Central forces. "Also, we plan to use satellite phones and even drones for security purposes," a source said. Additional Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Basu said all required measures were being taken in the Junglemahal region (vast forested stretches in West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura districts where Maoist rebels were once very active). "All required measures will be taken to ensure successful voting in Junglemahal region. Sufficient Central forces will be deployed," Basu said. About faults in EVMs and VVPATs due to rising summer temperatures, Basu said: "We have decided to increase the number of VVPATs in the sixth and seventh phase". The convoys of two prominent BJP leaders - Assam Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and party's West Bengal President Dilip Ghosh - were allegedly attacked by Trinamool activists in East Midnapore district on Tuesday, but both were unhurt. Basu said he has sought a report from the District Election Officer but he is yet to get any update. --IANS bnd/ssp/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Kerala government's decision not to allow a 54-year-old elephant to feature in a prominent temple festival here has led to a boycott of all events by the elephant owners, a move likely to play spoilsport in the famed 'Pooram' festivities. This year's Pooram festivities take place on May 13. The tusker, called 'Thechikottukavu Ramachandran', is supposed to symbolically push open the southern entrance of Thrissur's Vadakkumnathan temple on May 12, which signals the start of the main event of Thrissur Pooram festivities. Speaking to IANS, P. Sasikumar, General Secretary of the Elephant Owners Federation, the only body of owners of captive elephants in the state, said the decision of Kerala Forest Minister K. Raju was most unfortunate. "On April 10, a decision was taken that the elephant can take part in events in Thrissur district and the Minister had presided over the meeting. We do not know what happened after that. His statement that came early this week was a rude jolt to all of us. Hence we have decided that from May 11, not a single elephant of ours will be given for taking part in any festival. This one-sided decision is not acceptable to us," said Sasikumar. Ramachandran has killed seven people in the past and is considered a tough elephant to handle. Speaking to IANS, R. Chandran, President of the Thechikottukavu Devasom, which owns Ramachandran, said the decision of the Minister had come as a "shock". "It was a shock to all of us when we saw the statement from the Minister who was also part of the meeting which allowed Ramachandran to take part in the festivals in Thrissur. There is some conspiracy behind this sudden change in a decision that was already taken. We hope better sense prevails," said Chandran. "It is common knowledge that Ramachandran's right eye has a vision problem while his left eye is hundred per cent fit. Even the courts have ruled that blindness is not a disease," he added. Minister for Agriculture and Raju's CPI colleague V.S. Sunilkumar, who also hails from Thrissur, said that it was unfortunate that the elephant owners had taken such a position. Thrissur Pooram is billed as the 'mother of all festivals' in Kerala and its history dates back to the late 18th century when it was started by Sakthan Thampuran, the 'Maharaja' of the erstwhile Kochi state. The most keenly watched event of the festivities is the parading of more than 50 elephants along with cracker displays. --IANS sg/kr/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An epic family battle has reportedly taken its toll on a favourite summer drink - Rooh Afza. With Hamdard Pakistan jumping into the fray arguing that it can provide backup for the holy month of Ramadan where Rooh Afza appears to have vanished from kirana shops, it makes sense to track the reasons behind the halted production. The Rs 400-crore rose flavoured brand has enormous salience and is a pan-Indian favourite in the summer months. Hamdard Labs which is the company behind the brand is facing a shortage of key ingredients which, it claims, is behind the supply bottlenecks. Hamdard founder Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed's grandson Abdul Majeet, it is beleived, is in a conflict with his cousin Hammad Ahmed. This is taking its toll on the business. Speculation is rife that the 450,000 retailers who stock the popular indigenous drink are in a panic because its maximum sales take place during 'iftari' or the breaking of the fast. Production has been stopped since last November. Hundreds of tweets rolled in about the drink being an integral part of an iftar. Tweep @vrishtibeniwal posted: "Breaking the fast in the evening, iftar, has traditionally consisted of pakoras (fritters), fruit chaat (fruit salad), dates and Rooh Afza. An iftari without Rooh Afza is just not the same." While, Twitter user @Tanima wrote about the sentiments and memories attached to the drink: "I don't think I like Rooh Afza as much as I like the nostalgia attached to it. It tastes of school summer vacations and those hot afternoons when there was no AC and these simple respites were enough to keep us happy." Dismissing any rift within the family, Mansoor Ali, chief sales and marketing officer at Hamdard, according to a report by The Economic Times said, "We are facing supply constraints of certain herbal ingredients. We hope to fix the demand-supply gap within a week." But the drink with a history of uninterrupted supply disappearing from the shelves has led to major speculation which cannot be without truth. Gulf News in June 2016 had traced the geneology of the drink -- In 1908, in the bylanes of Old Delhi, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed decided to create a herbal mix that would help Delhi's masses stay cool in summer. Selecting herbs and syrups from traditional Unani medicine, he created a drink that would help counter heat strokes, bring down palpitation and prevent water loss. He named it Rooh Afza, which in Urdu literally meant something that refreshes the soul. Mirza Noor Ahmad, an artist, prepared the labels of Rooh Afza in several colours in 1910. Such colourful prints could not be processed in Delhi then. It was, therefore, printed under special arrangement by the Bolton Press of the Parsees of Bombay (Mumbai). A few decades later, Abdul Majeed decided to turn this medicament into a drink. The reception to the first batch ever made of Rooh Afza was an indicator of its future. "When they actually made Rooh Afza for the first time, the flavour and the smell were so enticing that a crowd began to gather around asking, 'Ho kya raha hai?' (what is happening?). The whole batch got sold off within an hour," Abdul Majeeb, the great grandson of Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, told Gulf News. Today, he is the CEO of Hamdard India, continuing the family's work in offering affordable medical care to the masses. The partition of India was the turning point, which went on to divide not just the family but Rooh Afza as well. "In 1947, most of the family travelled to Pakistan. Only my grandfather, Hakeem Abdul Hameed, and his two sons stayed. Even as his younger brother, Hakim Mohammad Said, went to Pakistan, my grandfather said, 'I will not be able to leave India because it is my motherland'," Abdul Majeeb said. With one brother in India and the other in Pakistan, they both continued to carry on the legacy left behind by their father on their own. While the business was already established in India, Mohammad Said faced a lot of hardships launching Rooh Afza in Pakistan. Sadia Rashid, chairperson of Hamdard Laboratories (Waqf) Pakistan and president of Hamdard Foundation Pakistan, told Gulf News: "My father (Mohammad Said) migrated to Pakistan, on January 9, 1948. The challenges of a fledgling country and a lack of means posed difficulties ... he laid the foundation of Hamdard Pakistan in two rented rooms in Karachi's old area of Arambagh, with Rs 12 (Dh0.42) worth of rented furniture." In 1953, Hamdard Laboratories Pakistan finally became lucrative, and it was converted into a waqf or a Muslim endowment entity. According to her, the brand name was "taken from the poetic book 'Masnavi Gulzar e Nasim' by Pandit Dia Shankar Nasim". Rooh Afza was a character in the book. Apart from the India and Pakistan, Hamdard also has a presence in Bangladesh. Rashid said: "My father (Mohammad Said) had opened a branch of Hamdard in former East Pakistan. After the creation of Bangladesh, instead of winding up that office and plant, he gifted that to the people of Bangladesh to be run and managed by its workers." --IANS prs/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Considered as the tallest figure in modern legal N.R. Madhava Menon passed away early on Wednesday, here at a private hospital, said family sources. He was 84. Menon was unwell and was hospitalised a few days back. He was the Founder Director of the National Law School of India University (NLSIU) and the National Judicial Academy, Bhopal, besides the Founder Vice Chancellor of the West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS). Beginning his legal career as an advocate at the Kerala High Court in 1956, Menon shifted his base to Delhi, after first joining the faculty of Aligarh Muslim University in 1960 and then to Delhi University in 1965, where he became Professor and Head of the Campus Law Centre. In 1986, Menon moved to Bangalore at the invitation of Bar Council of India to set up the National Law School of India University and to initiate a new model of legal education, the Five Year Integrated LL.B. programme. After his retirement, he settled in the capital city and served as the chairman of the prestigious Centre for Development Studies, here for two terms, before calling it a day, a few years back. He is survived by his wife and son. His last rites would be conducted at the state owned crematorium later in the day. --IANS sg/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A trip to Dubai is incomplete without a shopping spree. Whether you fancy bling of gold or want to bring home some spices or explore the scents of Dubai -- souks is the answer. Lavish gold jewellery, hand-woven fabrics, traditional oud fragrances and cheap knick-knacks - you'll find it all at Dubai's souks. Gold Souk is a must-see for precious metal traders, couples looking for a statement jewellery piece or visitors hunting for that special memento from their time in Dubai. The wide passageways are alive with tradesmen and artists trained in the craft of designing jewellery. With top chefs and home cooks looking for their personal picks among the Spice Souk's colourful sacks of spices, herbs, rice and fruits, the market hall is a must-visit for those wanting to explore Dubai's exotic side. You can get high-quality saffron strands at local prices, taste fresh sun-dried organic dates and stock up on spices, dried fruits, candied nuts and locally-blended teas. Follow the road up from the Gold and Spice Souks, and you'll find yourself at Perfume Souk on Sikkat Al Khali Street. Dealing in everything scented, from pure perfume to essential oils, incense sticks and the exotic traditional oud, this trading spot has options for all. Ask for a crash-course in oud -- many vendors will be proud to explain the differences in this ancient fragrant resin. Have a personal fragrance created and bottled by experienced perfumers. Want to buy some textile? Then head to Textile Souk. A favourite haunt of the city's in-demand tailors and emerging fashion designers, the Souk's vast array of shops are crowded with rolls of fabric, including fine silks, cotton, exotic palm frond weaves and dazzling sari fabrics. Choose from your favourite materials and pop into one of the surrounding tailors to be measured for a dress, abaya (traditional women's wear), kandoura (traditional menswear) or suit made to your design. --IANS sug/nn/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tech titan Google is looking into foldable technology even as Samsung's first-ever super premium foldable phone flamed out in embarrassing fashion. "Google has also experimented with the foldable form, said Mario Queiroz, who leads development of Pixel phones, ahead of the search giant's I/O developer conference. But Google isn't in a rush to get a folding product to market," the CNET reported late on Tuesday. The tech giant's foray into foldables wouldn't be much of a surprise as Google revealed native Android support for foldable displays in November 2018, ahead of the official Samsung Galaxy Fold reveal that same month. "But given how closely the Apple playbook is followed, it's rare that tech companies in the mobile hardware game explicitly confirm that they're looking into new, exciting designs," the report added. It is unclear how the company would develop its foldable prototype or how its screen would operate when opened and closed. Samsung's foldable device - the Galaxy Fold - has a smaller screen on the front and opens up into a larger one on the inside while Huawei's foldable phone - Mate X - has a different design that puts its eight-inch screen on the outside. --IANS ksc/mag/ (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The creator of the widely-familiar fictional character Hannibal Lecter, which featured in the Oscar-winning "Silence of the Lambs", has penned another thriller book "Cari Mora" with a female protagonist which is set to hit the stores next week. This will be the sixth book of American author Thomas Harris, and will be a non-Lecter one after his first-ever book "Black Sunday" (1975). His other four books revolved around Lecter, who is described as the "great fictional monster of our time" by author Stephen King. Adapted into movies and television shows, they essayed the character of a psycho-villain who murders and eats humans. Titled "Cari Mora", his sixth novel will be Harris's standalone thriller on the monsters that lurk in the "crevices between male desire and female survival". The book's blurb tells us that "25 million dollars in cartel gold lies hidden beneath a mansion on the Miami beach waterfront. Ruthless men have tracked it for years. Leading the pack is Hans-peter Schneider. driven by unspeakable appetites, he makes a living fleshing out the violent fantasies of other, richer men". It adds: "Cari Mora, caretaker of the house, has escaped from the violence in her native country. She stays in Miami on a wobbly temporary protected status, subject to the iron whim of the immigration authorities. She works at many jobs to survive. "Beautiful, marked by war, Cari catches the eye of Hans-peter as he closes in on the treasure. But Cari Mora has surprising skills and her will to survive has been tested before." The story of evil and greed will be published by one of Penguin Books' imprint William Heinemann. It will hit the stores on May 16. --IANS sj/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Finance Ministry is closely watching the economic costs of oil imports from other alternative markets like Iraq and Saudi Arabia, following the United States' withdrawal earlier this month of the waiver granted last year to some countries by the US on its Iran sanctions. Following the withdrawal of the US waiver, India has stopped contracting oil shipments from Iran this weekend, an official source said here on Wednesday. Petroleum Minister Dharmenra Pradhan last month had said that government has put in place a robust plan for the adequate supply of crude oil to Indian refineries. There will be additional supplies from other major oil producing countries and Ind ian refineries are fully prepared to meet the national demand for petrol, diesel and other petroleum products, he said. With 80 per cent of India's requirements being met through imports, higher-priced oil from non-Iranian sources can make a big dent in the country's current account deficit and forex reserves. Oil imports from Iran in the past fiscal ended March amounted to about $9 billion, as per industry figures. Official sources here said that getting oil from alternative sources would have financial implications and lead to further pressure when crude touches $75-80 per barrel in the near-term, putting pressure on India's import bill. Iran used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days compared to other crude suppliers, while the cargo insurance was free, the sources said. Imports from Iraq, UAE and Saudi Arabia will now be on the higher side, without some of the benefits that Iran was giving, they added. Iran's eight biggest oil buyers - China, India, Japan, South Korea, Italy, Greece, Turkey and Taiwan - had received the US waivers last November, which had allowed them to continue importing limited volumes of Iranian crude. Though India has not yet officially made known its position on future Iranian crude imports, imports from Iran were down 57 per cent in April on a year-on-year basis, according to industry sources. The decline was 31.5 per cent on the previous month's imports. India is scheduled to receive two crude carriers carrying 4 million barrels of Iranian oil this month. The two deliveries were loaded in April, prior to the end of the waiver that came into effect on May 2. India has been Iran's second largest customer of oil, after China. --IANS ana/sn/bc (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused the Congress of coining the term "Hindu terror" after the 2007 Samjhauta Express blast and keeping the "innocent in jail". Raking up the issue of 1984 Sikh riots, he said the Congress has made one of the accused Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Addressing a massive rally in Haryana's historical town Kurukshetra, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said after the Samjhauta Express blast near Panipat, the Congress put innocent people behind bars for years to cover up the falsehood of Hindu terrorism. "But we have busted their conspiracy. I do not let the Congress and their associates do what they wish to." Modi said the Congress demanded Nobel Prize for Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's gesture to release "our brave son". "When India entered Pakistan and killed the terrorists, one of our brave sons was captured by Pakistan, but they had to release him within 48 hours. They came to see him off at Wagah border. At that time, the Congress and their courtiers tried to demand a Nobel Prize for Imran Khan's gesture," he said. Slamming the opposition party for promoting "dynasty politics", Modi said: "The Congress is only involved in the thoughts of one family, hence they never showed seriousness in safeguarding India's safety and interests." "Since Independence, water which rightfully belonged to Indian farmers was being diverted to Pakistan and the Congress did not utter a word on it. However, the 'chowkidar' (watchman) will now ensure that every drop reaches our farmers," he said amidst loud cheers from the crowd. He said he constantly stopped the Congress' corruption and that is why they abuse him "under the guise of love". "Congress leaders have called me names repeatedly and this is how they shower their love on me," said the Prime Minister, who believes that the BJP's good governance agenda will defeat "negativity of the Congress". Praising Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who was also sharing the dais in Kurukshetra, Modi said the state has witnessed major changes in the past five years. "From Panipat, I started a campaign of 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'. Haryana has taken great care of their daughters in these five years." Earlier addressing a rally in Haryana's Fatehabad dominated by Sikhs and Punjabis, the Prime Minister said: "This shameless Congress is awarding those who were a part of the crime." "By making a person, who is said to be involved in 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, the Congress has proved that it doesn't care about your sentiments." --IANS vg/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Mahatma Gandhi's maiden visit to the Punjab in the aftermath of Jallianwala Bagh massacre changed him from an "Empire loyalist" to the "implacable opponent" of the British rule, contends a book published on the occasion of the centenary anniversary of the incident. The book named 'Martyrdom to Freedom', which is edited by Rajesh Ramachandran, Editor of Tribune, has several chapters written by scholars, historians, and a former diplomat. In one of the chapters, historian Ramachandra Guha says Gandhi was shaken after officials behind the massacre were not punished despite him recommending that "both General (Reginald) Dyer, the Butcher of Amritsar, and the Lieutenant Governor at that time, Sir Michael O'Dwyer, be relieved from 'any responsible office under the crown'". However, the Viceroy euphemized Brigadier General Dyer's action and gave O'Dwyer a "resounding" certificate of character. "This whitewashing of egregious behaviour of the Punjab government put as enormous strain on Gandhi's once fervent faith in British justice," Guha writes. It forced him Gandhi to launch a fresh movement of protest and he believed that British could be made to yield under the pressure of non- violent struggle. "Before 1919, Gandhi had never visited the Punjab. But what he did and saw in the province that year changed him forever. On the political front, it transformed him from an Empire loyalist to an implacable opponent of British rule," Guha contends. He says Gandhi was very keen to travel to Punjab in the wake of "politically conscious" province becoming centre of Ghadar movement and its past record of active participation in Swadeshi movement in 1905-07. Gandhi left then Bombay for Delhi on April 8, 1919, from where he hoped to proceed to the Punjab. However, he was stopped by the police so he returned to Ahmedabad. "When news of Gandhi's arrest reached Amritsar on the 10th (April), a large and angry crowd collected on the streets. British banks were set on fire and three bank managers murdered...The violence continued through 10th and 11th," the writer says. The city was placed under de facto martial law and the charge was given to Dyer. On April 13, Dyer ordered to open fire on the crowd that was gathered at Jallianwala Bagh as a part of Baisakhi celebration. After denying several requests, the authorities permitted Gandhi to visit Punjab in October. He left for Lahore on October 22, 1919. Two days later he reached Lahore and then went to Amritsar after a week. --IANS spk/rs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bihar's ruling JD-U on Wednesday said that the party will make a fresh pitch for its old demand of special category status to the state if it get 15 or more seats in the current Lok Sabha polls. Senior Janata Dal-United leader K.C. Tyagi said that his party has not forgotten or ended its old demand. "I appeal to people of Bihar to give us 15 or more seats in Lok Sabha polls. We will get special category status to the state this time," he said. The JD-U, which is a part of the NDA, is contesting 17 of the state's 40 Lok Sabha seats. Ally Bharatiya Janata Party is also contesting 17 seats, while the remaining six have been allotted to the other ally, Lok Janshakti Party. Noting that senior BJP leader Ram Madhav had rightly observed that the BJP may need support of allies to form the next government as it was likely to get lesser seats as compared to 2014, Tyagi said: "The JD-U will be happy if Narendra Modi will become PM again with the power of our numbers in the Parliament". This is first time that a JD-U leader has raised the issue of special category status to Bihar during over-month-long campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Chief Minsiter and party chief Nitish Kumar remained silent over the demand during the dozens of election meetings he had held, despite vociferously demanding special category status for his state. However, the Narendra Modi government had repeatedly made it clear that it would not grant the state special category status, with three Union Ministers publicly ruling it out. --IANS ik/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Liverpool are headed to their second consecutive Champions League final after routing Barcelona 4-0 to win the semifinal tie 4-3 on aggregate. Written off by most after losing 3-0 in the first leg at Camp Nou, the Reds---without Mo Salah and Roberto Firmino -- produced a spectacular comeback at Anfield here on Tuesday, where subs Divock Origi and Georginio Wynaldum each had a brace, reports EFE news agency. The 54,000 in the stands set the scene with a spirited rendition of "You'll Never Walk Alone" and then greeted Barca's first touch with full-throated jeering. Liverpool started aggressively and the visitors didn't deal well with the pressure, conceding in the seventh minute. An error by defender Jordi Alba created an opening for Sadio Mane, who set up Jordan Henderson to take the shot. While keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen made the initial stop, Origi was there to knock in the rebound. Still haunted by their second-leg collapse against AS Roma in last year's semifinals, Barcelona went on the attack with Lionel Messi in the vanguard and the Argentine great conjured multiple occasions in front of the Liverpool goal. Sadio Mane, meanwhile, tore up and down the field in pursuit of a second goal for the Reds. Messi threatened with a long, low strike late in the first half before Alba forced a stop from Liverpool keeper Alisson. Barca, while rattled, were still ahead 3-1 on aggregate and the odds remained with them. Liverpool began the second half without defender Andy Robertson, hurt before the break, and Jurgen Klopp decided to shift James Milner from midfield to the back line to make room for Georginio Wynaldum in the middle. The move paid off in the 54th minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold put a cross in the path of Wynaldum and the Dutchman launched a powerful strike that eluded Ter Stegen to make it 2-0 for the Reds on the night and narrow Barcelona's advantage to one. Two minutes later, it was Zherdan Shaqiri's turn to assist Wynaldum, who connected with a header to level the tie at 3-3 with 34 minutes to go in regulation. The spectre of extra time was hanging over Anfield in the 79th minute as Alexander-Arnold caught the Barca defense napping, sending a quickly taken corner to the unmarked Origi for the easy goal. Liverpool did enough to preserve the 4-3 advantage and booked their tickets for the June 1 Champions League final at Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano. --IANS aak/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BSP national president Mayawati on Wednesday accused the BJP of ignoring political decorum and casting aspersion on her relationship with her political ally, the Samajwadi party. Mayawati, while addressing a rally in Azamgarh from where the SP president Akhilesh Yadav is a candidate, said that their relationship was of the marginalized people which aimed at bringing about a social change. Turning the tables on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent attempts to drive a wedge between her and her alliance partners, Mayawati said that the alliance will not break until it had ousted Prime Minister Modi and UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath. Mayawati urged the people of Azamgarh to ensure historic victory for Akhilesh Yadav and asked her voters to consider her a candidate on the seat. She also hit out at the BJP's divisive policy by their fielding another Yadav, Bhojpuri star Nirahua, against Akhilesh Yadav. She described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a fake OBC and said that the people of Purvanchal belonged to the most marginalized region but they should not fall into his trap by false claims because "achche din" are over. Mayawati also slammed the Congress in the same breath and said that both the national parties were two sides of the same coin and were against reservation for the Dalits and OBC as enshrined in the Constitution. Akhilesh Yadav, while addressing the rally, claimed the alliance had received tremendous support in all the five phases where polling has taken place till now. He asked the voters to take away the 'chowki' of the "chowkidar" and appealed to people to rid the country of the "Baba CM" describing him as "thokedar" who openly asks the police to knock down people. Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Ajit Singh said the crestfallen face and abusive language of the Prime Minister was indication enough that he fears that his good days are over. The elections in Azamgarh will be held in the sixth phase on May 12. --IANS amita/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Militants shot and critically injured two persons on Wednesday in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district. Police sources said the militants fired at two persons identified as Muzaffar Ahmad and Irfan Ahmad in Zainapora area. "Both were shifted in a critical condition to the hospital. The area has been surrounded for searches," a police source said. Reports from the area said the two ran a chemist shop in Zainapora area. No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack. --IANS sq/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A school in the Netherlands has no classes, no classrooms and not even a curriculum in a break from the conventional approach applied in educational institutions across the world. "We get around 70 requests a week from all over the world from people wanting to come and see what we do here," according to Rob Houben, Manager of the Agora school in Roermond, the Netherlands. "And I turn most of them down, I just don't have the time to do all that!" Houben, who can be called the school's principal or headteacher, told online publishing platform Medium.com. The school's entire approach is centred around projects as it focuses on "learning, not teaching". Students at Agora range from 12 to 18 years in age and each of them is given control over their own educational journey. They are able to explore and learn about topics and things which interest them. There are diverse subjects offered to choose from -- such as German mountain guides, Mongolian horses, blacksmithing, Harry Potter patronuses, tables and skateboards. The staff here are responsible for around 17 students each and they have to ensure there are tangible results and genuine development, as well as work with each student on ways to continue developing the learning journey. Houben described Agora "as a blend of a university (where you have knowledge), a Buddhist monastery (where you can think), a theme park (where you can play) and a communal marketplace (where you can trade and swap things)". Each student has a desk, which they are encouraged to customise. One has the front of a car attached to it, which was built with the help of a local scrapyard. Agora students say what they enjoy most about the school is "the freedom to explore and learn whatever they want". "People look strangely at us. They think because of their school experience you have to have things like four mathematics lessons a week, but in the Netherlands, that isn't the case. The government only asks you to bring students to a certain level within a certain time period," said Houben. This school also allows ubiquitous mobile phone and Internet use. "All our children have Chromebooks for free, so they (students) have access to the Internet all day. We allow them to use their phones, all day, because you need to learn how not to use your phone in certain moments. And you don't learn that when you put your phone in a locker or container because then you have to have a container your whole life," according to Houben. There are currently 250 students in the school, with a long waiting list of others wanting to join. Agora tracks the students' progress by Egodact -- a piece of software designed by three students. --IANS soni/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Turkey can avail of sources like Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iraq and Gulf countries when US sanction waivers end. Turkey has many oil supply options in its locality to compensate for its lack of supplies due to U.S. sanctions on Iran, assistant professor of Istanbul Sehir UniversityVugar Imanbeyli said. Anadolu Agency reports in its article Many options available to plug Turkey's oil supply gap that U.S. sanctions on Iran will influence Turkey, as it is one of the eight countries that the U.S. will no longer apply Iran sanctions waiver to upon their expiration on May 2. Both Turkey as a major importer that receives 90% of its oil from overseas, and Russia, as one of the biggest oil exporters, will be impacted by the sanctions, Imanbeyli asserted. Russia could step up its exports to fill the gap in the market as Turkey imports around 15% of its oil from Iran. "Russia might take advantage of the situation as the tense environment in the market can increase the oil price or at least keep it at US$70-75 level as now. That is a gain for Russia. Furthermore, Russia is the opponent of Iran in the world oil market, so Russia can increase the supply to China and other countries," he said. Nonetheless, Turkey will be negatively affected by the sanctions but will seek ways to be exempted in the future, he said. "For Turkey, in the beginning it might be a problem in the supply side and Turkey might lose its price advantage. However, Turkey can obtain oil supplies from many sources unlike gas. Turkey might receive more oil from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iraq and other Gulf countries in order to compensate for its lack," he said. In addition, he estimated that Iran's other exports to Turkey would decrease along with a fall in its oil exports. According to data from the Energy Market Regulatory Authority, Turkey's crude oil imports increased by 78.3% to 2.3 million tonnes in February 2019 compared to the same month of 2018. During this period, Turkey bought the majority of its crude oil of 529 thousand tonnes from Iraq. Russia followed with 460 thousand tonnes, and Kazakhstan with 366 thousand tonnes while Turkey bought 350 thousand tonnes. Last August, following the sanctions announcement, the Trump administration granted waivers to eight countries including China, India, South Korea, Turkey, Italy, the U.A.E. Japan and Taiwan -- the top importers of Iran's oil. U.S. Secretary of the State Mike Pompeo announced on April 22 that the administration will no longer renew Iran sanctions' waivers. The eight countries that the waivers apply to are Turkey, Japan, South Korea, China, India, Taiwan, Italy and Greece. NITI Aayog Member and defence scientist Vijay Kumar Saraswat on Wednesday extolled the virtues of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru who believed that only science and technology could remove hunger and poverty from the country. Inaugurating a mega science expo, the first "Vigyan Samagam" at the Nehru Science Centre before a distinguished audience, Saraswat said it would go a long way in attracting the best brains to science which have been migrating to fields like Information Technology. "Former PM Nehru had said it is only science and technology which can remove hunger and poverty from the country. From then onwards, India had made great strides in basic research. Science is used not only to create energy but also for cancer research," Saraswat said. Besides, atomic energy, India has made great contributions in the field of space science, as evident in Mangalyan and Chandrayan missions, he pointed out. However, India still faces serious problems like high infant mortality rate and penury for which Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked Indian science to step out of laboratories and solve problems confronting the society, Saraswat said in his inaugural address. "Commercialisation of research has to happen for economic development. Better understanding of the universe and planet will help solve problems that we have created by adverse use of science and technology without regard for the environment," he urged. Other prominent dignitaries speaking on the occasion included Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India (Prof) K. Vijay Raghavan, Department of Atomic Energy Secretary and Chairman Atomic Energy Commission K. N. Vyas and Department of Science and Technology Secretary Ashutosh Sharma, among others. Other important speakers included CERN Director for Accelerators and Technology Frederick Bordry, Swiss Ambassador to India Andreas Baum, Atomic Energy Commission Secretary Arun Srivastav and National Council of Science Museums Director-General A.D. Choudhary. Sponsored by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Department of Science & Technology (DST), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the 11-month-long science exhibition inaugurated in Mumbai will travel to New Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru. From Mumbai, the exhibition will go to Bengaluru on July 29-September 28, Kolkata November 4-December 31 and finally to New Delhi on January 21, 2020-March 20, after which it will be converted into a permanent exhibition at the NCSM in the national capital. The expo takes the viewers from the world of micro to macro, unveil the efforts of the global community in understanding the working of the vast universe, its origins and evolution. It will showcase the work of DAE on nuclear technology, fundamental science and research, discovery of the Higgs Particle to gravitational waves, merger of neutron stars and Black Holes, and India's contribution to global science in innovations, research, space and nuclear technology. Well-known scientists and experts in different fields like Shivprasad Khened, Director of Nehru Science Centre, DST's Head of Scientific Division Praveer Asthana, former AEC Chairman P. Chidambaram, former Principal Scientific Advisor Anil Kakodkar, S. Banerjee, R.K. Sinha and S. Basu also graced the event. --IANS qn/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh on Wednesday said that no one has the copyright on saffron after the sadhus, who took out a roadshow here in support of Singh, were seen holding saffron flags along with the Congress' flags. A group of sadhus, who came here from across the country, extended their support to Singh who is contesting from this Lok Sabha constituency. Namdeo Das Tyagi alias Computer Baba was leading the group. Singh also participated in the roadshow that started from Old Bhopal and covered Peer Gate and Sankari lanes. On Tuesday, a group of sadhus performed 'hatha yoga' and did 'havan' to ensure Singh wins the election. The former Chief Minister is contesting against Bharatiya Janata Party's Pragya Thakur. The BJP has been winning the Bhopal parliamentary seat since 1984, while the Congress has won six out the 16 elections held here so far. Bhopal will vote on May 12. --IANS hindi-pg/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) HMD Global, the Finnish company that manufactures the iconic Nokia-branded phones, has unveiled Nokia 4.2 -- its first smartphone of 2019 which is a budget offering with noteworthy features such as a dedicated key to fire up Google Assistant. Priced at Rs 10,990, the phone is available in India in a single configuration of 3GB RAM and 32GB onboard storage. The device essentially falls in line with the company's focus on value-for-money devices for the price-conscious buyers with good hardware and neat Android One experience. Here's what we think of Nokia 4.2. The smartphone comes with a sculpted glass sandwich design with polycarbonate frame on the sides. The right side houses the volume rockers and the power key with a light ring circling around it that activates when you get a notification. A dedicated Google Assistant button on the left is a feature that every budget phone gives a miss. The front features a small waterdrop-style notch, inside of which lies the 8MP selfie camera with a slit above for the earpiece. The bezels on the phone are mostly narrow, albeit for the one at the bottom, while a humble Nokia logo sits below. The bottom bezel could've been minimised for more screen real estate. The rear houses a dual camera set-up with a 13MP primary sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. We found the camera performance strictly average with some shutter lag; shooting in low light was a pain. The 8MP front snapper managed to take some decent selfies though. The smartphone is among one of the first devices to be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 439 processor, coupled with 3GB RAM and 32GB internal storage, with a MicroSD slot which can expand memory up to 400GB. Considering the entry-level pricing and chipset, the phone ran well during daily tasks. Browsing multiple social media apps and Internet was smooth as well. A 3000mAh battery fuels the phone which was enough to deliver a day's worth of use. However, it packs in a MicroUSB instead of a USB Type-C for charging. Conclusion: HMD Global's Nokia 4.2 is a device that looks stunning for its cost. However, smartphone players such as Realme and Xiaomi also offer tons of affordable phones in this price segment. A clean, vanilla Android user interface and regular software updates is something you should buy this phone for. (Krishna SinhaChaudhury can be reached at krishna.s@ians.in) --IANS ksc/na (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A comparatively new Lok Sabha constituency, North East Delhi has big names in the race including actor-turned-politician and sitting MP Manoj Tiwari and three-time Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, while bad roads, overflowing drains and piled up trash remained top concerns for the residents. Also contesting is AAP leader Dilip Pandey, making it a triangular fight. Having an electoral of 22,90,492, the constituency, formed in 2008, is one of the most populated regions of Delhi and where 'Poorvanchalis' -- people from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar -- and those from Uttarakhand live in large numbers. In 2009, when the Congress formed the government at the Centre, the constituency voted for Congress' Jai Prakash Agarwal. In 2014, amid the Modi wave, it elected BJP's Tiwari. North East Delhi comprises ten Assembly constituencies - Burari, Timarpur, Seemapuri, Rohtas Nagar, Seelampur, Ghonda, Babarpur, Gokalpur, Mustafabad and Karawal Nagar. Apart from Mustafabad, which elected a BJP candidate, all other Assembly seats were won by the AAP in 2015. While the constituency -- formed with a major chunk of the East Delhi Lok Sabha seat -- is relatively new, the issues here are old. Comprising about 300 unauthorised colonies and 50 slum clusters, people in this constituency are up against poor roads, lack of proper sanitation, dysfunctional street lights and irregular water supply. Ramesh Yadav, 50, who migrated to Delhi in early 90s in search of better employment, said the city had seen an upliftment in the last three decades but the area remained quite the same. "In 1990s, development of the city started. The entire city had a facelift, barring North East Delhi. Hardly any development took place here. The drains are overflowing, roads are covered with trash and congested," said the Karawal Nagar resident. Pappu Singh, who runs a small shop in Burari, termed traffic congestion as a major issue. "One cannot imagine coming here with a car. Public transport is also bad. The people here are stuck in a vicious cycle. Every election, politicians make big promises. I am here for the past 12 years, nothing has improved. On the contrary, it is becoming worse day-by-day." For Manisha Mishra, a housewife, lack of sanitation and roadside garbage heaps are the biggest problems. "The streets are full of garbage. This is a major cause of health issues in the area. No one is bothered about the condition in which we live." While the illegal colonies remain a challenge for the authorities, the political parties see us only as a vote bank, she added. Open drains, poor water quality, lack of security on roads are also key concerns but most residents don't expect much to change. First-time voter Neha Jha, 22, calls the area an "embarrassment" for the city. "I feel ashamed telling my college friends that I am from this part of the city. This is just an embarrassment for the city. The government does not consider us a part. I am urging people to vote for NOTA. What is the point of electing a person if he cannot bring improvement?" she said. The BJP, which rules the Centre and controls the MCD, and the AAP, which governs the city, are blaming each other for the mess. While the two male candidates are playing the 'purvanchali' card -- both hail from Uttar Pradesh -- Dikshit leans on her tenure as the Chief Minister. All the three candidates hold masters degree. Among the 24 candidates in the fray, Dikshit is the only female and, if elected, she will be the first women MP from the seat. In 2014, Tiwari got 596,125 votes (45.38 per cent) of the total of 13,13,514 votes. AAP's Anand Kumar came second with 452,041 votes (34 per cent) and Congress' Jai Prakash Agarwal third with 214,792 votes (16.35 per cent). As per the 2011 Census, the population density of the area is 36,155 persons per square km -- the highest in Delhi. The constituency will vote on May 12 along with the six other Lok Sabha seats in Delhi. (Nivedita Singh can be contacted at nivedita.singh@gmail.com) --IANS nks/pg/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Slamming the opposition for using abusing language for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP said this only shows their sheer desperation and hatred for a leader, before whom they stand no chance to win public confidence. Talking to the media here on Wednesday, Union Minister and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Prakash Javadekar said the desperate Congress is also hurling casteist abuses on the Prime Minister, and the more Congress hurls abuses, the more seats party will win. Calling the Congress a party of lies, Javadekar said: "Besides abusing the Prime Minister, the Congress is also speaking lies and today (Wednesday) Congress President Rahul Gandhi had to apologise to the Supreme Court for speaking lies in the name of Supreme Court." "We have leadership, country's security and development as our plank and what they have is only abuses," the BJP leader added. Accusing the Congress of indulging in scams, the BJP leader said that with CWG, 2G, Jijaji, Coal, Augusta, Antriksh and Bofors Pundoobbi, the Congress has looted everything. "The party stands for loots and lies." Targeting the party, Javadekar said the Congress under former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi justified the genocide of Sikhs, made worst communal compromise under Shah Bano's decision, made a botched up operation in Sri Lanka of Shanti Sena, Quattrocchi received money and was also allowed to flee. The BJP campaign is positive and raising relevant issues, while the Congress is exhibiting its political bankruptcy, the BJP leader added. --IANS rin/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Calling himself a local, Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) North East Delhi candidate Dilip Pandey believes people in the Lok Sabha elections will elect their own man who is aware of the area's ground reality -- and not "political stars". The North East Delhi constituency -- formed in 2008 -- is going for its third general election on May 12. The constituency has elected the two national parties in the last two elections. In 2009, when the Congress formed the government at the Centre, it voted for Jai Prakash Agarwal of the Congress. In 2014, under the Modi wave, BJP's Manoj Tiwari was elected. Pandey said the people living in the area have been exploited by both the big parties. "The people have paid the price of electing big names from outside... The big stars are good when you look from outside, but when it comes to giving light to your house, a small 'diya' is good enough and the 'star' will not be of any use," he said speaking in Hindi. He said the "big names" were unaware of the ground realities. "How can someone who was never stuck in the jams in Waziarbad, Khajoori Chowk or Shastri Park understand what the people face everyday? Someone not having the ideas of Karawal Nagar issues and its roads can never solve the issues faced by the locals. When the big names are not even aware of the issues, how can we expect them to solve them?" Calling himself a local, he added: "This time, the people have decided to elect a local -- who is well aware of the area -- to represent them in Parliament." Asked about caste-based vote bank, he said Delhi's ruling AAP was loved by people, irrespective of caste or area. "AAP has done a lot of work for the city and its people, irrespective of caste or area. The work done by AAP was not directed for a particular caste or section," he said. Pandey said the MP acts as a bridge between the central and the city governments. So the MP should be one who can act as a bridge. An author, anti-corruption activist and IT expert, Pandey jumped into from the India Against Corruption movement days. Born and brought up in Zamania, a small tehsil in eastern Uttar Pradesh, Pandey became the Convenor of the Delhi Unit of AAP and its national spokesperson in 2014. In 2015, the AAP won 67 out of 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly elections. From a young age, he had started writing for local newspapers and magazines. He says he always fought over social issues and worked closely on matters which could potentially bring up the quality of life. When India Against Corruption movement started, Pandey was working in Hong Kong. His passion for his country brought him back to India. Pointed out that he was pitted against rivals who were senior leaders from the BJP (Manoj Tiwari) and Congress (Sheila Dikshit), he said this time the people will vote for a change. He said the purpose of this election was to defeat BJP and to show the doors to Tiwari, the MP. "His (Tiwari's) arrogance will bring his end. He cannot ask for a single vote on his name, because he is aware that he has not done any work in the last five years and the people will not vote for him. He is using Modi's name. What is the point of taking big names? People want a representative who is approachable and accessible," he said. Similarly, former Chief Minister Dikshit was no challenge, he said. "The Congress is not in competition. Since our birth in (in 2012) Delhi saw four elections and in all four elections the Congress came third. In three elections the party lost its security deposit. Who will consider the party a challenge? The Congress is contesting here just to cut votes. I spoke to the locals, they are in no mood to waste their votes by voting for the Congress. We are the strongest here and so people will vote for us," Pandey said. Along with six other constituencies in Delhi, North East Delhi will go for polls on May 12. Having an electoral strength of 22,90,492, the constituency is one of the most populated regions of Delhi. (Nivedita Singh can be contacted at nivedita.singh@gmail.com) --IANS nks/mr/pg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday rejected a plea seeking direction to restrain the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal from promising to grant full statehood to the national capital. A Division Bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani dismissed the public interest litigation (PIL) filed by one Anil Dutt Sharma. In his plea, the petitioner told the court that the AAP, in its manifesto, had promised to grant full statehood to Delhi. Sharma said that the AAP was misleading the people of Delhi by seeking their vote based upon incorrect or false information. He added that the AAP had no such power and authority to fulfil its promise of securing full statehood to Delhi. The petitioner said that even if the AAP wins all the seven seats in Delhi, they cannot grant full statehood to the national capital. --IANS ak/mag/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has made an unannounced visit to Iraq after abruptly cancelling a planned trip to Germany amid escalating tensions with Iran. The top US diplomat met Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abd al-Mahdi, President Barham Salih and other officials while on the ground in the Iraqi capital in a roughly four-hour visit on Tuesday, according to the pool travelling with him. Pompeo described his meetings as "productive" and said he spoke to the officials "about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country", CNN reported on Wednesday. "They both provided assurances that they understood that was their responsibility," he said. Pompeo's visit came days after a US aircraft carrier was deployed to the Middle East region, which officials said was in response to threats to American forces and its allies from Iran. Speaking to the press pool following his visit, Pompeo reiterated that it was the US' understanding that "these were attacks that were imminent, these were attacks that were going to happen fairly soon, we've learned about them and we're taking every action to deter them". He said that the US "wanted to let them (Iraqis) know about the increased threat stream that we had seen and give them a little bit more background on that so they could ensure that they were doing all they could to provide protection for our team. "They understood too it's important for their country. We don't want anyone interfering in their country, certainly not by attacking another nation inside of Iraq and there was complete agreement." Before his arrival in Baghdad, Pompeo declined to go into details when asked to give details on the "tipping point" for his abrupt change of travel plans. He said he had informed President Donald Trump of his travel schedule on Monday night and that the latter had asked him to pass along a number of messages. The top US official said that he and officials discussed how to defeat the remaining pockets of the Islamic State in the country and foreign terrorist fighters being held in Iraqi detention camps. Although Pompeo indicated prior to his stop that he would discuss "big energy deals that can disconnect (Iraq) from Iranian energy," he said afterwards that although they spoke about energy infrastructure, they "didn't spend much time talking about sanctions issues". --IANS soni/bg (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused then Prime Minster late Rajiv Gandhi of using aircraft carrier INS Viraat and its personnel for vacations with his foreigner in-laws. He raked up the issue at a rally here to counter the attack by Congress leaders who say that defence forces have been politicised by the BJP, citing remarks by BJP leaders that "Modi ki sena" had carried out air strikes on a terror camp in Pakistan. Addressing the gathering in Ramleela Maidan, Modi said, "Who has been treating the forces as personal property? ...have you ever heard that a family goes for holiday on a warship? This has happened in our country. The 'naamdar' family used INS Viraat as its personal property. They insulted it." INS Viraat was withdrawn from its place of deployment and sent to fetch the in-laws of Rajiv Gandhi before it was taken to an island where nobody was there to welcome them and all arrangements for them were made by the personnel of the aircraft carrier, Modi alleged. The holiday continued not for one day, but for 10 days during which the warship remained stationed there, Modi added. The Prime Minister then asked whether the presence of "foreigners on the warship did not amount to playing with the security of the country. Or was it allowed just because he was Rajiv Gandhi?" Taking a pot shot at the Congress' NYAY scheme, Modi said, "Congress has started to talk about Nyay (justice), but I want to ask them who shall do justice to the victims of 1984 anti-sikh riots?" In an apparent reference to Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Modi said those who were behind the anti-sikh riots were made Chief Ministers by the Congress. The Prime Minister also said that in the last five years, 10 Janpath (the residence of the Gandhi family), which earlier used to house middlemen, has become middleman free. "Now instead of middlemen, their house is visited by lawyers and advocates," he said. Modi further said that the country has witnessed four different political cultures -- 'naampanthi', 'vaampanthi', 'daam' and 'gaban panthi' and 'vikaspanthi'. "Those who believe in dyansties come under 'naampanthi', those who believe in 'vaampanthi' support foreign culture, while the 'daam' and 'gaban panthi' are those who believe in 'gundatantra' and 'vikaspanthi' is for those who believe in development." "But now a fifth political culture has arrived in the national capital and that is 'nakampanthi' -- those who don't want to work and those who fail in everything," he said, referring to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Targetting the AAP government in Delhi, the Prime Minister said, "They brought anarchy and cheated the people of the country." "They disrespected every institution and cheated the people of the country. They had entered to bring change but they themselves have changed. They blame others to hide their own failures. They supported the 'tukde tukde gang' and also stood with the Khalistanis. "They are full of negativity and they have stalled all the pro-poor Central government schemes in Delhi," he said. The Prime Minister also said that the country which witnessed frequent bomb blasts earlier has seen a change after 2014 as no bomb blasts took place in the national capital where people are now feeling secure. Highlighting the achievements of his government, Modi said, "Masood Azhar has been declared a global terrorist by the United Nations Security Council. Earlier, inflation used to be the main issue during elections, but this time it is no longer a poll issue due to the works that our government did in the last five years," he said. Modi also said that Goods and Services Tax (GST) has eased the process of doing business across the country. --IANS aks-ps/akk/vd/arm (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 Minister Rajnath Singh targeted the Congress as he addressed a poll rally in support of BJP candidate Rao Inderjeet Singh here on Wednesday. The minister targeted the opposition Congress and its leaders for allegedly trying to weaken laws on sedition at the rally in the Rajput-dominated village of Bhondsi in Gurugram district with the election campaign in Haryana scheduled to end on Friday. "If BJP comes to power, we will make strong sedition laws to strengthen our country. In the last five years, the BJP government has cornered anti-national elements," Singh said. He also pointed to some of the NDA government's schemes such as the 13 crore LPG connections to the poor, improved road networks, the prime minister's housing scheme, besides surgical strikes against Pakistan-based terrorists. Singh slammed the opposition for asking for proof from the Modi government over the surgical strikes. However, the villagers gave a lukewarm response to the minister's speech. Many said that the economic condition of farmers in Bhondsi and Sohna is good but they want jobs for the youth which has not happened in the last five years. "We may support BJP candidate on the basis of caste but the schemes Rajnath Singh was mentioning in the rally have no meaning. Majority of the villagers in this region have sound financial condition and we do not require free LPG cylinders or low budget housing schemes, we want government jobs for our youth," said Satbir Raghav, a native of Bhondsi village. --IANS str/kr/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) U.S. sanctions have hit Iran hard, but revenue from tourism hasnt been all that bad. Foreign travelers spent about $11.8 billion between March 2018 and March 2019 according to Iranian government data, or about three percent of an economy worth roughly $431 billion, Caspian News writes in the article 2018 Was A Good Year For Tourism In Iran. According to the central banks latest data, the countrys tourism sector has earned 11 billion and 800 million dollars last year [the Iranian fiscal year ending on March 20], said Ali-Asghar Mounesan, the director of Irans Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization. Mounesan was speaking at an opening ceremony for a major tulip festival in the northern province of Alborz on Friday and quoted by Fars news agency. [The] tourism sector, because of its specific circumstances, has suffered the least damage from the sanctions, and therefore tourism can aid Irans economy. In addition, the sector indirectly helps to boost social vitality is treasured. Mounesan admitted that the lower cost of travel packages for trips to Iran is a critical factor that has made the Caspian and Middle Eastern country a more attractive tourism destination lately, due to the steep decline in the value of Irans national currency, the rial. Yet he was upbeat about the possibility of revenue from tourism off-setting some of the losses currently faced in the oil sector. In January, Mounesan said, "Iran has 157 four- and five-star hotels, and by the end of President Hassan Rouhani's second term in 2021, the figure will increase to 210. When the infrastructures are complete, income from tourism will replace oil revenues. With oil at $60 per barrel, Iran can rake in about $45 billion in export revenues. How it plans to drive up tourism revenue to that figure has not been explained. Iran hosted some 7.8 million foreign nationals during the Iranian calendar year of March 2018 to March 2019, which reflects a 52.5 percent increase compared to the same period the year prior. Shiite Muslims travel to Iran as pilgrims, paying a visit to the holy shrines in Mashhad, Shiraz, Qom, Isfahan, Yazd and Ardabil. A majority of foreign tourists visiting Iran last year were from neighboring countries as well as European and American countries," the deputy head of the Islamic Republic's Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization, Vali Teymouri, said on May 2. Iran is considered an ideal destination for what is called health tourism, which by some estimates is worth $20 billion in Iran annually, due to the high quality of medical care at a much lower cost than in many developed countries. Officials say Iran has over 850 government and private hospitals that match global standards, which can provide medical treatment for various diseases and ailments. About 400,000 medical tourists travelled to Iran during 2017-18 year, bringing in roughly $1.2 billion in foreign exchange. On the photo: the annual Gachsar Tulip Festival in Asara, which lasts between late April and early May and showcases tens of thousands of flowers, attracts thousands of domestic and international vacationers each year to what is a garden measuring one hectare. The RBI on Wednesday withdrew its earlier circular which mandated banks and financial institutions to disclose their outstanding to IL&FS and its group companies including provisioning required as per income recognition and asset classification (IRAC) and actual provisioning made against NPAs. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), its circular dated April 24, 2019 stands withdrawn. "In view of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)'s order dated May 2, 2019 in respect of company appeal...the instructions contained in the above mentioned circular stand withdrawn," the RBI said in a notification. On April 24, the RBI had asked banks and financial institutions to disclose their outstanding to IL&FS and its group companies. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)'s order dated February 25 said: "No financial institution will declare the accounts of 'Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Ltd' or its entities as 'NPA' without prior permission of this Appellate Tribunal." The RBI, however, has since then contested the view and said that banks should classify the accounts of IL&FS and its companies as NPAs. The central bank also asked the banks to declare the "position of provisions which are required to be made as per IRAC norms" and the "position of provisions actually held". In April, during a hearing in the NCLAT, RBI's counsel Gopal Jain said that true reflection in the books of the banks is important for fair accounting because it has early warning signals. It is the obligations of the banks to mark any loan as NPA after a default of 90 days, and they cannot be relieved from doing that, said the RBI, adding that it is a process which every bank has to follow. --IANS rv/nir (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor Richard Madden is in talks to join Marvel Studios' "The Eternals". Angelina Jolie and Kumail Nanjiani are already on board. It is said that Madden will play Ikaris, a member of the human offshoot race known as the Eternals, reports variety.com. Created by Jack Kirby in 1976, the comic book is set millions of years in the past, when the cosmic beings known as the Celestials genetically experimented on humans to create super-powered individuals known as the Eternals, along with the villainous Deviants. The two groups battled each other throughout history. The Eternals also warred with Greek, Roman and Norse deities before leaving Earth to explore the stars. Chloe Zhao is directing "The Eternals" from a script by Matthew and Ryan Firpo. --IANS sug/in (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Registrar of Companies (Mumbai) has submitted the inspection report of the beleaguered Jet Airways' books to the Corporate Affairs Ministry which will shortly start examining the details. "Action will be based on the inspection report of Jet Airways' books," a ministry source said. The regional directorate of Mumbai initiated inspection of the books eight months after the Ministry directed it for such a probe to ascertain if there was any diversion of funds. The RoC's inspection of a company's books is akin to a preliminary fact-finding exercise which could lay the ground for further investigation. In the Jet Airways case, the RoC stepped in last August after the company deferred its first quarter FY19 results. Jet Airways is passing through a critical time but has not yet landed at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Its share sale process, led by its lenders, is underway and neither the promoters nor lenders are willing to provide the emergency funding needed for it to remain afloat till a turnaround plan is agreed upon between shareholders and lenders. The airline's shareholders or lenders did not take it to a bankruptcy court in time. Going to NCLT would have meant a court-appointed resolution. This has led its key lender State Bank of India (SBI) taking charge of the resolution efforts under corporate rescue plan outside the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). But with the airline's operations halted, there is a growing demand to leave it to a bankruptcy tribunal now. So far no investor has shown any keenness in Jet's expression of interest (EoI) floated by SBI. Jet owes Rs 8,000 crore to the banks. --IANS ana/sn/prs (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sadhus in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday took out a roadshow in support of former Chief Minister and Congress candidate from this Lok Sabha constituency Digvijaya Singh. Singh also took part in the roadshow which covered Peer Gate and Sankari lanes in old Bhopal. Namdeo Das Tyagi alias Computer Baba, who was leading the group, said that sadhus from across the country have come to ensure Singh's victory in the elections to be held here on May 12. On Tuesday, a group of sadhus performed 'hatha yoga' and did 'havan'. Singh is contesting against Bharatiya Janata Party's Pragya Thakur. The BJP has been winning the Bhopal parliamentary seat since 1984, while the Congress has won six out the 16 elections held here so far. --IANS hindi-pg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The world's largest oil company Aramco will provide additional crude oil to domestic oil refiners to meet shortages arising from the US decision to lift Iran sanction waivers from major oil importing countries, including India. Sources in state-run oil companies said that the Saudi Arabian oil giant has offered to increase crude oil supplies to India by 200,000 barrels a day (bpd) that would meet almost half of the country's oil imports that was coming from Iran. On an annual basis, 200,000 bpd of oil equals about 10 million tonne (mt) of oil per year. India imported 23.9 mt of crude oil from Iran in FY19, making the Gulf country the third biggest exporter of oil after Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Aramco's offer to Indian oil companies is for deliveries starting June. The oil situation is also expected to get clearer from June when the full might of US sanctions would come into play. Though US sanction waiver was lifted from May 2, India is still getting some oil from Iran on contracts reached earlier. Sources said that while the Saudi offer of increased oil quantity has generally been welcomed by domestic oil companies as it will help alleviate the squeeze driven by US sanctions on Iran and Venezuela, the supply is unlikely to be made on terms given by Iran. In fact, refiners would face a heftier bill on Arab light crude. Iran used to offer Indian refiners 60 day credit for oil deliveries and also gave discounts on freight and insurance. Saudi Arabia on the other hand charges an Asian premium for its crude oil exports to India. It is for this reason that India has been expanding the list of oil source markets to prevent disruptions in one part of the world from affecting its supplies. India imports more than 80 per cent of its oil requirements and it is thus imperative for it to ensure that supply lines are maintained at all times. With Iran and Venezuela, which is the fifth largest supplier of crude to India, coming under US sanctions, India has also started exploring higher oil imports from other Latin American countries such as Brazil and Mexico with which it has shared a healthy economic relationship. Indian oil companies are also exploring raising imports from African countries and looking at the US shale oil option. According to data from the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics, Iraq sold 46.61 mt crude oil to India during FY19, which is two per cent more than the 45.74 mt it had supplied in FY18. This helped Iraq to become the top oil exporter to India. India provisionally imported 207.3 mt of crude oil in FY19, down from 220.4 mt in the previous financial year. Saudi Arabia has traditionally been India's top oil source, but it came second in FY19. In 2018, Saudi Arabia exported 40.33 mt oil, up from 36.16 mt oil sold in the previous year. Iran on the other hand sold 23.9 mt of crude in FY19, up from 22.59 mt in the previous year. UAE topped Venezuela to become India's fourth-largest crude supplier. It sold 17.49 mt of crude oil to India in FY19 against 17.32 mt of oil coming from Venezuela. --IANS sn/mag/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Election Commission to examine the complaint of dismissed BSF trooper Tej Bahadur Yadav whose nomination papers to contest the Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi were rejected by the poll body. Yadav wanted to contest the election against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the counsel of the poll body to look into the matter and communicate it to the court on Thursday. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for Yadav, brought an earlier order to the court's attention and informed that during the Model Code of Conduct there is no bar on filing election petitions. Yadav, dismissed from service in 2017 after he posted a video online complaining about the poor quality of food served at his BSF camp, had entered the poll fray as a candidate of the Samajwadi Party from the Varanasi seat. He alleged that he was deliberately kept out of the contest to ensure an easy win for Modi from Varanasi. Yadav, in his petition, contended that the Returning Officer "completely failed to appreciate that he had produced the dismissal letter along with his nomination paper". The dismissal letter indicated the reason for his dismissal from the BSF as alleged indiscipline and there was no evidence of indulging in corruption or any act of disloyalty to the state, the petitioner said. Yadav has sought the apex court's direction to set aside the Returning Officer's May 1 order pleading that he be allowed to contest the election from Varanasi. The candidature of Yadav was rejected by the Returning Officer on finding fault with his nomination papers. Yadav's nomination was rejected as he could not bring on record that his dismissal was not on corruption charges or due to any integrity issues. "It seems the decision was taken keeping in mind the sensitivity of the contest in Varanasi and to give walkover to the candidate (Modi) of the ruling party (BJP) by disqualifying the petitioner," he contended. Yadav claimed he was a strong candidate against the prime minister and his popularity was "gaining momentum", and added that is why he was supported by the Samajwadi Party-Bahujan Samaj Party combine in Uttar Pradesh. Stating that "the mala fide is apparent," Yadav alleged that the Returning Officer had shown haste in deciding on his candidature, adding that the poll official could have at least allowed the Election Commission to respond to his application. --IANS ss/kr/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to extend the deadline for the finalisation of National Register for Citizens (NRC) in Assam. The court declared that the process must be completed on or before July 31. It said that the process could not be delayed even by a day. The apex court allowed the coordinator to proceed as per law if objectors do not appear. Earlier, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had criticised the Centre and the Ministry of Home Affairs' plea requesting a suspension of the NRC work during the general elections. --IANS ss/in (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.) Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, sentenced to seven years in prison in a corruption case, has returned to jail after being out on bail for six weeks owing to illness. The Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader left his Jati Umra residence in Lahore for the Kot Lakhpat jail in a procession of hundreds of PML-N workers led by his daughter Maryam Nawaz around 8.30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dawn online reported. He was scheduled to reach the jail by sunset, but eventually arrived past midnight after obtaining a special permit to enter the prison later than expected. Sharif's convoy was surrounded by people chanting slogans and throwing flower petals onto the car in which he and his daughter were travelling. "Nawaz Sharif came along with a rally to the jail and he reached the jail premises at around 12.20 a.m," an official at the Kot Lakhpat prison, Ahsan Ullah, told Efe news. "The jail authorities had gone to his residence in the evening to take him under custody but they refused," Ullah said. Sharif later thanked his supporters for accompanying him to jail at midnight, saying: "I do not have words to thank you for the passionate way in which you welcomed me." He said that their prayers would release him from the "dark prison cell", in a video shared by his daughter on Twitter. The Supreme Court on March 26 granted Sharif six weeks bail for medical reasons after he was sentenced in December 2018 to seven years in prison in the Al Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference. He was jailed for failing to explain the ownership of the steel factory in the name of one of his children. The case was filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in the Panama Papers case. In July 2018, Sharif was sentenced to 10 years in prison in another case of corruption related to a four-storey luxury property in London while his daughter was given seven years. The three-time Premier was disqualified from holding office in 2017 for not revealing remuneration he received from a company owned by a son, an irregularity revealed after the publication of the Panama Papers. --IANS soni/bg (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three boys belonging to Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district who were detained in Rajouri district by police were released on Wednesday. The boys, identified as Danish Gulzar, Inayatullah and Shahid Ahmed, were detained two days back when locals in Brari village of Nowshera area reported "suspicious movement" of the three in the village. Police said they were freed after verifying their antecedents. The families of the boys in Shopian said that they had gone to a Sufi Shrine, Sharda Sharief, after which they went on a picnic in Rajouri. --IANS sq/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Uttarakhand Congress leader Anupam Sharma, who was arrested along with three policemen in an alleged case of robbery last month, has been granted bail by a court here, police said on Wednesday. A designated Dehradun court on Tuesday granted bail to Sharma even as the police vehemently opposed the bail application stating that the case was at a delicate stage of investigation. Sharma, who is also facing the spectre of disciplinary action by the Congress, had told police officials investigating the case that he was falsely implicated and was innocent. Sharma, who is the state party General Secretary and also a member of the All India Committee Congress (AICC), was arrested along with the three policemen on April 16 after they allegedly hatched a conspiracy and robbed a bag containing Rs 1 crore for election purposes. State Congress President Pritam Singh had stated that the AICC was the competent authority to take action against Sharma. Singh did not give any timeframe for the action. Sharma, Sub-Inspector Dinesh Negi, Constable Manoj Adhikari and police driver Himanshu Upadhyay were arrested and sent to jail on different charges including robbing property dealer Anurodh Panwar who was carrying the "black bag" said to be containing Rs 1 crore on April 4. Panwar had initially told investigators that the money was meant for the April 11 election held in Uttarakhand. Preliminary investigations had revealed that Panwar, who was carrying the money in a car, was stopped by a group of policemen who were in another police vehicle on the night of April 4. Under the pretext of searching for black money being used for election purposes, the three policemen seized the bag from Panwar. After the seizure, the policemen allegedly threatened Panwar and also asked him to leave immediately. After two or three days, Panwar started inquires about the money and visited different police stations and also the Income Tax department, thinking the money had been deposited by the policemen. But after getting no information, he lodged an FIR and narrated the entire matter to top police officials. Sensing the gravity of the case, Director General (Law and Order) Ashok Kumar handed over the investigation to a Special Task Force (STF). After a probe, Sharma and the three policemen were arrested on April 16. All three police officials were also placed under suspension. The vehicle used in the crime has also been seized. "We have started proceedings to dismiss the three policemen from service," said Kumar. The accused policemen are also planning to seek bail and move a Dehradun court shortly. --IANS str/kr/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After going through something as life-altering as a car accident, the best thing you can get out of it is... By the middle of last year, the U.S. had hit the European Union with steel and aluminum tariffs, the EU had responded with counter-tariffs on American goods, and some feared the situation could escalate into a full-blown trade war. Fortune reports in its article Why the New U.S.-EU Trade Talks May Be Doomed Before They Even Start that but then U.S. President Donald Trump and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker had a meeting and emerged with an agreementthe two sides would try to strike a new free-trade deal to give their countries easier access to each others markets. The good news: preliminary talks are finally starting this week, more than nine months after that agreement. The bad news: the talks are probably already doomed before they start. Thats in part because of a long-running catch 22: the U.S. wont contemplate a deal that doesnt include agricultural goods, and the EU, keen to protect its own farmers and maintain food standards, refuses to allow a deal that does include them. Intractable problem The biggest problem facing the fresh trade negotiations is that of food. The United States has made it clear to the EU on many occasions that a trade agreement between the United States and the EU needs to include agriculture if the agreement is to get support in Congress, said a U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) official Monday. The EU has long opposed opening the way for more U.S. farm foods to come into the bloc. This is partly to protect Europes small farmers from their larger U.S. competitors, and partly to keep out food that has been heavily genetically modified orlike chlorinated chickentreated in ways that fall short of EU sanitary standards. France in particular strongly resists any deal that includes agricultural goods, and France is one of the EUs most influential members. Trumps Word The EU has a fairly good argument for not including agricultural goods in these talks: they werent part of the agreement struck between Trump and Juncker last July. The two presidents talked about a free-trade deal encompassing non-auto industrial goodsa category that takes in everything from chemicals to textiles, but not meat, fruit or wine. Accordingly, when the EUs member countries last month gave EU negotiators permission to start talks with their American counterparts, they did so on the basis that the talks would be strictly focused on industrial goods, excluding agricultural products. The Commission is not budging on that point, with sources there saying it is convinced that a strict implementation of what was agreed with Trump would benefit both sides and could help address current challenges for the multilateral trading system. U.S. agricultural exports to the EU face high tariffs and unjustified non-tariff barriers. American farmers and ranchers need to be allowed to compete on a level playing field in the EU, said the USTR official. All of which should make for lively discussions this week in Washington, D.C., where EU and U.S. teams are meeting to pave the way for formal talks between USTR Robert Lighthizer and EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom in the coming weeks. Because the official talks are yet to begin, the two sides are free to discuss the agricultural goods issue at this stagebut later on, its most likely going to be off the table. Business hopes The business community in the EU is certainly keen to see the talks succeed, though not at any cost. The United States [is] the most important export destination for the German economy, said Ilja Nothnagel, a member of the executive board at the German Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Continued trade tensions not only endanger trade flows but jobs in Germany and the U.S. Many German companieshave invested in the U.S. and employ around 850,000 people there. That is why the trade talks are an important step. Nothnagel said German companies have long been struggling with bureaucracy in U.S. states and in public procurement there, and are hoping a deal would cover non-tariff-related trade barriers of this sort. The biggest lobbying group that represents European farmers, COPA-COGECA, claims its in favor of agriculture being part of a comprehensive trade packagebut not a cut-down deal of the sort that U.S. and EU negotiators hope to strike. We believe that it would be beneficial if agriculture is included in a comprehensive trade negotiation, but we need to talk about all key issues and not only tariffs. This would help to reduce tensions, said the organizations secretary general, Pekka Pesonen, in an emailed statement. Nevertheless we know that the calendar and current trade/political environment wouldnt give much room for a comprehensive agreement. Other problems Agricultural products aside, there are quite a few hurdles to overcome if the U.S.-EU free-trade dealthe first attempted since the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) talksis to become reality. The TTIP talks failed in 2016, and the impasse over agricultural goods was a major factor. This time round, there are several new problems that generally stem from the policies of the Trump administration. For a start, France doesnt even want the fresh talks to be taking place, because of the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement. Then there are the tariffs that are still in place between the two sidesthe U.S. metals tariffs and the counter-tariffs that followedplus the tariffs that Trump keeps threatening to levy on European carsand the tariffs the EU is threatening to introduce in response. On top of that, the EU is currently setting up a new payments channel to bypass U.S. sanctions on Iran. There are also big tensions over the U.S.s decision to fully implement sanctions against Cuba in a way that could hurt European companies that have invested there. And theres also the ongoing spat over subsidies and tax breaks given to the U.S.s Boeing and the EUs Airbus. In short, the outlook for any new deal is about as good as it was for TTIPunlikely at best. Kakarhiya village in Varanasi district is sending a message that is loud and clear to the opposition parties. Posters screaming "Yeh chowkidaron ka gaon hai, yahan choron ka aana varjit hai" (This is a village of chowkidars and the entry of thieves is banned) have come up in the village. Kakarhiya village had been adopted by Prime minister Narendra Modi in October 2017 under the Adarsh Gram Yojana. Development that has taken place after the village was adopted has changed the life of the villagers. "We now have roads, proper sanitation, toilets and electricity. What more do we want? We will not allow anyone who is against Modi to enter the village and campaign. For us, it is Modi all the way," says Kartik Kashyap, an undergraduate. The posters, according to sources, have already had the desired impact and some other villages like Jayapur that was one of the first villages to be adopted by the Prime Minister, are planning to put up similar posters. Opposition parties, including the Congress and the SP-BSP alliance, have not yet announced any meeting in these villages. "Hum kisi ko meeting nahin karne denge" (We will not allow any meeting here), says Ramu Lal, a local. He adds: "Jo chowkidar ko chor kehte hain, wo khud chor hai. Hum sab chowkidar hain" (Those who claim that 'chowkidar chor hai' are thieves themselves. We are all chowkidars). --IANS amita/mr (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu will deliver keynote address at Vietnam's Tam Chuc Pagoda during his four-day visit to the country, an official statement said on Wednesday. During his visit starting Thursday, Naidu will have meetings with Vietnam's Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and National Assembly Chairperson Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan. He will also meet the Indian community and Vietnamese beneficiaries of the Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp organized in Vietnam under the 'India for Humanity' initiative launched to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. "India-Vietnam relations have been built on a firm foundation of close cultural, historical and civilisational links and are marked by mutual trust and understanding as well as strong cooperation in regional and international fora," the statement said. "During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Vietnam in September 2016, the relationship between the two countries was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership." Naidu's visit to Vietnam follows a series of high-level exchanges that have taken place in 2018, including visits by Vietnam's Prime Minister and President in January and March 2018, respectively and the state visit of President Ram Nath Kovind in November 2018. "These exchanges have resulted in robust cooperation in several areas, have expanded defence and security ties, forged new economic and commercial linkages and deepened people-to-people engagement. The two sides share a common desire to promote peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region," the statement said. --IANS spk/vd (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) About 10,000 will be going to France this year for studying, Alexandre Ziegler, Ambassador of France to India, said Wednesday. Ziegler noted that the young generation was one of the main focuses of the bilateral relations between India and France. Speaking at an event at the French embassy, Ziegler said the figure of 10,000 had doubled in last three years as earlier it used to be less than 4,000. "After nearly 3 years in India, I must say that every day I am amazed at the brightness of the youth in India," the envoy said. "The young generation is one of the main focuses of the bilateral relations between India and France and was marked as a priority by our President, Emmanuel Macron, during his State visit to India last year," he said. "10,000 will have chosen France, this year, a record number as compared to the less than 4,000 three years ago. This figure is still a constant. A teenage Taliban suicide bomber blew himself up outside one of Pakistan's oldest and most revered Sufi shrines in Lahore on Wednesday, killing at least 10 people, including five police commandos, and injuring 25 others as the country marks the Muslim holy month of Ramazan. The powerful blast took place around 8:45 am (local time) outside Gate number 2 of the 11th-century Data Darbar shrine, the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia, where the elite police personnel were deployed for security, police said. A CCTV footage showed that a teenage boy wearing black shalwar kameez and a suicide vest came closer to the vehicle of elite force and blew himself up. "The suicide bomber is about 15 years old and made no suspected movement before blowing himself up," Lahore police spokesperson Syed Mubashir told PTI. He said at least 10 people including five policemen were killed in the blast. Over 20 injured are being treated at the Mayo Hospital Lahore, of them the condition of six is said to be critical. He said two suspects have been taken into custody. The Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JeA), a breakaway faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed the responsibility for the attack. "We also heard that Jamaatul Ahrar had claimed the responsibility of the Lahore blast on social media but we can't confirm it before investigation," Mubashir said. Punjab Inspector General Police Arif Nawaz told reporters that it was a suicide attack and the target was the vehicle of the elite force that was stationed outside the shrine of Sufi saint Ali Hajvari popularly known as Data Darbar. He said the suicide bomber came closer to the police personnel vehicle and blew himself up, killing five of them and injuring four others critically. One security guard and three civilians are among the dead, he said. The impact of the blast shattered the windows in nearby vehicles and buildings, local media reported. Television footage showed a number of damaged vehicles near the shrine. Lahore Deputy Commissioner Saleha Saeed told the media that one of the dead bodies brought in to Mayo Hospital was that of the suspected attacker. "It was a suicide attack. Ball bearings were also used in the attack," she said. Mayo Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Yar Muhammad put the death toll to nine. "We have received nine people including policemen dead. The condition of six injured is critical and doctors are trying their best to save their lives," he said. Wednesday was the second day of Muslim holy month of Ramazan. The Data Darbar area is thickly populated and the shrine attracts thousands of visitors every day. "I was performing my duty when I heard a powerful sound of the blast nearby. I rushed to the spot and found people in a pool of blood. I informed the police on emergency number and shifted two injured to Mayo Hospital," traffic police warden Rizwan Ahmed said. Safia Bibi was to enter the shrine from the Gate 2 when the blast took place. She suffered injuries. At Mayo Hospital she told reporters that she came along with her daughter to take blessing of the Sufi saint. "My daughter had entered the shrine while I was behind her when I heard a sound of powerful blast. I fainted and recovered my consciousness at the hospital and found my daughter sitting besides me. I am thankful to God that my daughter is safe," Safia said. Prime Minister Imran Khan strongly condemned the attack and directed the Punjab government to provide all assistance to the injured and families of victims. Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar also condemned the attack and ordered an inquiry into the incident, summoning reports from the Punjab Inspector General of Police and the additional chief secretary of interior, according to a handout issued by the Punjab government. Provincial Law Minister Basharat Raja said that the death toll may rise as some of the injured were in critical condition. "We condemn this cowardly act," he said. A rescue operation was conducted in the area before it was cordoned off for investigation. The shrine was evacuated, with devotees moved out through exits away from the blast site. Entry to the Data Darbar has since been restricted. Educational institutions near the shrine have been closed for Thursday. Heavy contingent of police, Counter-Terrorism Department and forensic officials are collecting evidence from the site of the attack. The Inspector General of Police said police will share their findings once they conclude their probe. All regional police officers and city police officers have been directed to examine security in their respective areas and remain alert during the month of Ramazan. The Data Darbar shrine is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. In 2010, the shrine was targeted in a suicide attack that killed more than 40 people. Since then, the area has been increasingly hemmed in by heavy security, with visitors forced to pass through several layers of screening before they can enter the complex. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A suicide bomber targeting Pakistani security personnel blew himself up outside a revered Sufi shrine here in Punjab province on Wednesday, killing at least 10 people, including five police commandos, and injuring 25 others as the country marks Ramzan. The powerful blast took place around 8:45 am (local time) outside Gate number 2 of the Data Darbar shrine, the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia, where the elite police personnel were deployed for security after a suicide attack in 2010, police said. The condition of four policemen is stated to be critical. Punjab Inspector General Police Arif Nawaz told reporters that it was a suicide attack and 7kg of explosives were used in the blast. "The target of the suicide bomber was the vehicle of the Elite Force that was stationed outside the shrine of Sufi saint Ali Hajvari commonly known as Data Darbar," Nawaz said. He said the suicide bomber came closer to the police personnel vehicle and blew himself up, killing five of them and injuring other four critically. One security guard and three civilians are among the dead, he said. The impact of the blast shattered the windows in nearby vehicles and buildings, Pakistani media reported. Television footage showed a number of damaged vehicles near the shrine. Lahore Deputy Commissioner Saleha Saeed told media that one of the dead bodies brought in to Mayo Hospital was that of the suspected attacker. "It was a suicide attack. Ball bearings were also used in the attack," she told reporters. Punjab Law Minister Basharat Raja said that the death toll may rise as some of the injured were in critical condition. "We condemn this cowardly act," he said and also confirmed it was suicide attack. Mayo Hospital Medical Superintendent Yar Muhammad put the death toll to nine. "We have received nine persons, including policemen dead. The condition of six injured is critical and doctors are trying their best to save their lives," he said. Prime Minister Imran Khan and other leaders condemned the attack. The premier expressed condolence to the bereaved families and directed authorities concerned to provide best possible medical treatment to those injured in the blast. A rescue operation was conducted in the area before it was cordoned off for investigation. The shrine was evacuated, with devotees moved out through exits away from the blast site. Entry to Data Darbar has since been restricted. A heavy contingent of police, Counter-Terrorism Department and forensic officials are collecting evidence from the site of the attack. The Inspector General of Police said police will share their findings once they conclude their probe. All regional police officers and city police officers have been directed to examine security in their respective areas and remain alert during the month of Ramazan. The shrine is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. In 2010, the shrine was targeted in a suicide attack that killed more than 40 people, and is heavily guarded. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three of the five people were arrested in connection with the Alwar gang rape case, police said Wednesday. Fourteen police teams were pressed into service to nab the other two accused, IG Jaipur S Segathir said. Those arrested were identified as Indraraj Gurjar, Ashok and Mukesh, he said, adding that Mukesh had also recorded the crime and uploaded the video on social media. "Two rape accused are absconding. Mukesh had shot the video and uploaded it on social media. He has been arrested under the IT Act," the IG said. A woman was allegedly raped by five men in front of her husband in Alwar district on April 26. On Tuesday night, the Rajasthan government had removed Alwar SP Rajiv Pachar and put him under the Awaiting Posting Order status, citing administrative reasons. SHO of the Thanagazi police station Sardar Singh was also suspended and four policemen were shunted to police lines. The state government has released an interim relief of Rs 4.12 lakh for the victim as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Meanwhile, locals took out a protest march in Thanagazi town demanding arrest of all the accused persons. The BJP criticised the government over the incident and for delay in taking action, alleging that the case was deliberately hidden due to elections. Deputy Leader of Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly Rajendra Rathore and several other leaders also condemned the incident. "Such a shameful incident occurred but police and the government took this very lightly and no prompt action was taken," BJP state president Madan Lal Saini said. The incident took place when the woman was travelling on a motorcycle with her husband. The accused stopped them on the Thanagazi-Alwar bypass and dragged the couple to an isolated area, where they allegedly raped the woman and threatened her husband with dire consequences, police said. The two did not narrate the incident to family members initially but when the accused called the husband and threatened to circulate the video if he did not give them money, he told the family members about it. An FIR was registered on May 2 under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the SC/ST Act. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) At least nine persons, including five police personnel, were killed when a suicide bomber blew himself up outside a major Sufi shrine in Pakistan's Lahore on Wednesday as the country marks the fasting month of Ramzan, officials said. The blast took place around 8:45 am (local time) outside Gate number 2 of the Data Darbar shrine, the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia, where the police personnel were deployed for security, police said. As many as 25 people have been injured in the blast. The condition of four policemen is stated to be critical. Punjab Inspector General Police Arif Nawaz told reporters that it was a suicide attack. "The target of the suicide bomber was the vehicle of the Elite Force that was stationed outside the shrine of Sufi saint Ali Hajvari commonly known as Data Darbar," Nawaz said. He said the suicide bomber came closer to the police personnel vehicle and blew himself up, killing five of them and injuring other four critically. One security guard and two citizens are among the dead, he said. Punjab Law Minister Basharat Raja said that the death toll may rise as some of the injured's condition is critical. "We condemn this cowardly act," he said and also confirmed it was suicide attack. Mayo Hospital Medical Superintendent Yar Muhammad put the death toll to nine. "We have received nine persons, including policemen dead. The condition of six injured is critical and doctors are trying their best to save their lives," he said. Meanwhile Prime Minister Imran Khan and other leaders condemned the attack. The premier has commiserated with the bereaved families and directed authorities concerned to provide best possible medical treatment to those injured in the blast. A rescue operation was conducted in the area before it was cordoned off for investigation. The shrine was evacuated, with devotees moved out through exits away from the blast site. Entry to Data Darbar has since been restricted. A heavy contingent of police, Counter-Terrorism Department and forensic officials are collecting evidence from the site of the attack. The Inspector General of Police said police will share their findings once they conclude their probe. All regional police officers and city police officers have been directed to examine security in their respective areas and remain alert during the month of Ramazan. The shrine is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. In 2010, the shrine was targeted in a suicide attack that killed more than 40 people, and is guarded by heavy security. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The prestigious twin Lok Sabha constituencies of Phulpur and Allahabad in the district, represented in the past by three prime ministers, is seeing a battle of political turncoats this election as majority of the main candidates are fighting polls after having switched party allegiance. In Phulpur, wherefrom Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru won the first three Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has fielded former zila panchayat chief Keshri Devi Patel while Pankaj Niranjan is fighting from the Congress with Pandhari Yadav forming the third corner of this triangular contest. The Patel community is an important electoral base and the Congress and the SP-BSP alliance is also seeking to corner an important vote share from it. Senior Congress leader from Allahabad, Abhay Awasthi, says, the 2019 general elections in Allahabad this year is essentially a "battle of political turncoats". "The twin Lok Sabha seats of Phulpur and Allahabad have seen titans fighting the poll in the past. From Nehru winning three times from Phulpur to Lal Bahadur Shahtri and V P Singh from Allahabad, and then senior BJP leader M M Joshi, winning three times from Allahabad, these two have been very prestigious seats, but big players are not in the fray this time," he told PTI. Aswathi said Keshri Devi Patel is a strong leader of Patels, and having served multiple time as zila panchayat president in Allahabad, has a strong hold over voters at the grass-roots level. "She is fighting for BJP, but she was earlier with the BSP. Patel fought the Lok Sabha elections in 2004 on a BSP ticket but had lost to SP candidate Atiq Ahmed (by over 64,000 votes)," he said. Pankaj Niranjan, a Patel leader from Apna Dal, is fighting on a Congress ticket. He is a son-in-law of Apna Dal founder late Sonelal Patel, and the grand old party is seeking to woo Patel voters with him as the candidate. But, parties are betting on turncoats not just in Phulpur but also in Allahabad constituency, where former Congress leader Rita Bahuguna Joshi is trying her luck, pitted against Congress' Yogesh Shukla, who earlier belong to the BJP. While Joshi had unsuccessfully fought Lok Sabha elections in 1999, losing to BJP stalwart M M Joshi and finished third, Shukla was fielded by the BJP in 2009 but faced defeat at the hands of SP's Kunwar Rewati Raman Singh and managed to get only the third position. Shukla had joined the Congress late April just ahead of filing his nomination, Awasthi said. "More so, SP's Rajendra Singh Patel fielded from Allahabad this time, was earlier with the JD(U) and had served as its vice-president. So, it is indeed a battle of turncoats of sorts this time for the two seats," he said. Lok Sabha seats of Phulpur and Allahabad fall in the Allahabad district. As many as 14 candidates each are testing their fortunes from the two constituencies in the election here due on May 12. Phulpur Lok Sabha seat, which Nehru had won in 1952, 1957 and 1962 consists of five assembly segments -- Phaphamau, Soraon, Phulpur, Allahanbad West and Allahabad North. Allahabad Lok Sabha seat also consists of five assembly segments -- Meja, Karachhana, Bara, Koraon and Allahabad South. Lal Bahadu Shashtri, who served as the second prime minister from 1964-66, had won Allahabad seat in 1957 and 1962, while VP Sing had won it in 1988. Akshat Lal, a resident of old Allahabad, which falls in Allahabad constituency, said, "From childhood days, we have heard stories of Nehru, Shahstri and how the two seats have been considered bellwether constituencies. But, now caste and community equations are major factors in " Lal, a graduate of Allahabad University, says, Allahabad is a city of Sangam, and, with many turncoats in the fray, it seems " is getting mixed up here in unusual ways". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was freed from death row by the Supreme Court in a high-profile blasphemy case that polarised the society, has quietly left the country and reunited with her family in Canada, her lawyer said Wednesday. Bibi, a mother of four from Punjab province, was taken out of the Muslim-majority country after repeated death threats from religious extremists, following the quashing of her conviction for blasphemy last year. The 47-year-old mother of four was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. "Aasia Bibi has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will," a source in the foreign office was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. Bibi's counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that she has reached Canada. "It is a big day. Asia Bibi has left Pakistan and reached Canada. She has reunited with her family. Justice has been dispensed," he said. Her children are already in Canada. Asia Bibi was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws. Under Pakistan's penal code, the offense of blasphemy is punishable by death or life imprisonment. Asia Noreen - commonly known as Asia Bibi - was kept at a secret location while arrangements were made for her to leave the country. The Supreme Court's quashing of her sentence on October 31 last year led to violent protests by religious hardliners who support strong blasphemy laws, while more liberal sections of society urged her release. The judgement triggered protests across Pakistan with protestors led by Islamic political party Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other groups blocking major highways and roads in different parts of the country. Malook said that Bibi's safe arrival in Canada was the result of hard work by activists, foreign diplomats and others who stood by Bibi in hard times and worked for her freedom. The British Pakistani Christian Association said in a statement that they had received confirmation from a British diplomat that Aasia Bibi had safely exited Pakistan. Geo quoted sources as saying that her travel documents were made a month ago. The Pakistan government had in November rejected reports claiming Aasia Bibi has fled abroad, saying the images on the social media showing the recently-acquitted Christian woman being greeted overseas are "fake". It was reported in local media that she was taken to Noor Khan Airbase Rawalpindi, from where she would be shifted to the Netherlands. Earlier, Italy had said it would help Bibi leave the country because her life was in danger following charges of blasphemy that put her on death row for eight years. Her husband had also urged the US president, and the UK and Canadian premiers to help her leave the country for her life. Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih in a video message had appealed to the world leaders to help Aasia leave Pakistan for her safety. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Azerbaijan may host the 24th World Petroleum Congress in 2023, Azerbaijans Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said at a meeting of the National Oil Committee in Baku. Azerbaijans Deputy Energy Minister Elnur Soltanov, in turn, said that the candidacy of the city where the 24th World Petroleum Congress will be held will be determined by secret ballot this June in St. Petersburg, Trend reported. In addition to Azerbaijan, Canada, the UAE, Argentina and Kazakhstan are also pretending to host the congress. The World Petroleum Congress is one of the most important events in the oil and gas industry, held by the Permanent Council of the World Petroleum Congress. Every three years, thousands of specialists from all over the world gather at this forum in order to get acquainted with the most modern technologies of oil and gas production and methods of managing this business. The 23rd World Petroleum Congress will be held in Houston, Texas, USA in 2020. Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was freed from death row by the Pakistan Supreme Court in a blasphemy case last year, has left the country and reached Canada to reunite with her family, according to her lawyer. The 47-year-old mother of four was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. "Aasia Bibi has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will," a source in the foreign office was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. Bibi's counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that she has reached Canada, the Guardian reported. It is a big day. Asia Bibi has left Pakistan and reached Canada. She has reunited with her family. Justice has been dispensed, he was quoted as saying by the British newspaper. He said that Bibi's safe arrival in Canada was the result of hard work by activists, foreign diplomats and others who stood by Bibi in hard times and worked for her freedom. The Supreme Court had on October 31 last year acquitted her of blasphemy charges. The judgement triggered protests across Pakistan with protestors led by Islamic political party Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other groups blocking major highways and roads in different parts of the country. The British Pakistani Christian Association too said in a statement that they had received confirmation from a British diplomat that Aasia Bibi had safely exited Pakistan. Geo quoted sources as saying that the woman's documents were made a month ago. The Pakistan government had in November rejected reports claiming Aasia Bibi has fled abroad, saying the images on the social media showing the recently-acquitted Christian woman being greeted overseas are "fake". It was reported in local media that she was taken to Noor Khan Airbase Rawalpindi, from where she would be shifted to the Netherlands. Earlier, Italy had said it would help Bibi leave the country because her life was in danger following charges of blasphemy that put her on death row for eight years. Her husband had also urged the US president, and the UK and Canada premiers to help her leave the country for her life. Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih in a video message had appealed to the world leaders to help Aasia leave Pakistan for her safety. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman who was acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court in a blasphemy row last year, has left the country and reached Canada, according to media reports on Wednesday. The 47-year-old mother of four was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. " has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will," a source in the foreign office was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. Bibi's counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that the woman has reached Canada, the Express Tribune reported. The Supreme Court had on October 31 last year acquitted her of blasphemy charges. The judgement triggered protests across Pakistan with protestors led by Islamic political party Tehreek-i-Labaik Pakistan and other groups blocking major highways and roads in different parts of the country. Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has thanked Union minister Kiren Rijiju for coming out in his support following a controversy over his citizenship. The actor, who recently made headlines for his "candid and completely non political" chat with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was the subject of intense speculation about his citizenship after he did not vote in Mumbai on April 29 in the fourth round of the seven-phase Lok Sabha polls. On May 3, in a statement on his official Twitter handle, the 51-year-old actor said he had never hidden or denied that he holds a Canadian passport. The same day, Rijiju offered his support to the Bollywood superstar, saying his "patriotism" towards the country is beyond any doubt. The The Union Minister of State for Home Affairs also lauded Akshay's efforts in raising funds for the 'Bharat Ke Veer' campaign, a home ministry fund which aids families of paramilitary personnel who died fighting extremists. "Dear @akshaykumar ji, no one can question your patriotism. Your motivation to our Armed Forces personnel and the way you generated funds for our martyrs through #BharatKeVeer programme will remain an example for every patriotic Indian," Rijiju, posted on the micro-blogging site. In his response on Tuesday, Akshay thanked the minister, saying he will continue to support the Indian armed forces. "Thank you so much @KirenRijiju Sir, and I apologise for the delayed response. I am grateful for your kind words. Please be assured, my commitment to #BharatKeVeer and to the Indian armed forces would remain steady, no matter what," the actor wrote. Akshay, who started his journey in Bollywood in 1991 with "Saugandh", has established himself as one of the Hindi film industry's most bankable stars. In the past few years, the actor has featured in a series of films such as "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha" and "Padman" focusing on social issues. He also won a National Award for his performance in "Rustom", in which he played a patriotic Navy officer. Akshay's last release was "Kesari" based on the Battle of Saragarhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Emphasising that allegations of corruption are not covered in the exemption given to the CBI from the RTI Act, the Central Information Commission has advised the agency director to sensitise its RTI processing officers about the provision. Information Commissioner Divya Prakash Sinha quoted an order of the Delhi High Court wherein the Intelligence Bureau was directed to provide information pertaining to allegations of corruption to an applicant. Like the Intelligence Bureau, the Central Bureau of Investigation has also been listed in the list of organisations exempted from the Right to Information (RTI) Act. However, this exemption does not extend to records held by the agency which pertain to allegations of corruption and human rights violations and they are subjected to provisions of the RTI Act. Sinha was hearing a matter wherein an RTI applicant had sought to know status of his complaint alleging irregularities in the allotment of LPG distributorship by the officers of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. in Jaipur. Denying the information, the CBI cited exemption given to it by the central government and said that the provisions bringing information about allegations of corruption under the RTI Act was limited to allegations against its own officers and not every record pertaining to corruption held by it. Rejecting the argument, Sinha said, "Commission observes that the reliance placed by CPIO on the earlier decisions of the coordinate benches to substantiate the view that CBI is only obliged to provide information relating to allegation of corruption against its own employees does not hold good." He referred to a Delhi High Court order dated August 23, 2017 wherein the Intelligence Bureau, an exempted organisation like the CBI, was directed to provide information pertaining to allegations of corruption. "...if the information sought pertains to allegation of corruption and human rights violation, it would be exempt from the exclusion clause, irrespective of the fact that the information pertains to the exempt intelligence and security organizations or not or pertains to an Officer of the Intelligence Bureau or not, the High Court ordered quoted by Sinha said. The aforesaid ratio laid down with respect to the Intelligence Bureau is squarely applicable to the case of CBI also, Sinha held. "Further, Commission finds that the incorrect connotation ascribed by the CPIO to the proviso to Section 24(1) of RTI Act that it is only applicable to cases involving CBI's own employees may result in gross violation of the provisions of RTI Act by the Respondent office in future," the information commission said. He had marked a copy of the recent order to the Director, CBI advising him to appreciate the necessity of sensitising the Central Public Information Officers (CPIO) regarding the scope and ambit of the RTI Act and that of Section 24 in particular by way of appropriate workshops etc. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Four of the five suspects in the Alwar gang-rape case have been arrested while the city SP has been shunted out and an SHO suspended in the wake of the April 26 incident in which police have been accused of delaying action on the pretext of poll preparations. The husband of the victim claimed that he had approached the Thanagazi police station SHO and the SP with his complaint, but he was asked to wait as they were busy with the elections. He alleged that an FIR was lodged only on May 2. As the case came into light, Jaipur Inspector General S Segathir said Wednesday four people have been arrested and 14 police teams pressed into service to nab the remaining accused. Those arrested were identified as Indraraj Gurjar, Ashok and Mukesh and Mahesh Gurjar, the officer said, adding that Mukesh had also recorded the crime and uploaded the video on social media. Mahesh Gurjar was arrested on Wednesday night, the police said. On Tuesday night, the Rajasthan government removed Alwar Superintendent of Police Rajiv Pachar and put him under the Awaiting Posting Order status, citing administrative reasons. SHO of the Thanagazi police station Sardar Singh was also suspended and four policemen were taken off active duty. The state government has released an interim relief of Rs 4.12 lakh for the victim as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Meanwhile, locals took out a protest march in Thanagazi town demanding arrest of all the accused. Protests were also held in Dausa, Jaipur and Churu demanding death penalty for the culprits. On April 26, the accused stopped the couple's motorcycle on Thanagaji-Alwar road and beat the husband. They stripped the couple and raped the woman in front of her husband. One of accused also shot a video. The victim's husband alleged that the police officers did not pay heed to his request for action against the culprits. "The incident occurred on April 26. This all happened for nearly three hours. Initially we kept quiet, but when the accused called me demanding money for not circulating the video, I went to the SP office and gave him a complaint. "He sent me to the SHO of Thanagaji police station where the SHO received the complaint but the FIR was not lodged," the victim's husband told PTI. He claimed that the SHO took him to the scene of the crime on the same day and later asked him to go. "Next day, I called the SHO but he said that policemen were busy in election. When I called the SP, he also gave the same response. I was asked to wait till elections are over. The FIR was lodged on May 2," he said. Narrating the ordeal, he said, "One of the accused called me and demanded money on April 30. He said that the video will be circulated on WhatsApp if I did not give them money. My younger brother told about this to the SP but nothing happened and on May 4, the video was circulated". "We suffered unexplainable nightmare on April 26. When the video was circulated among locals, our dignity was completely lost and when I told this to the police, their reaction was also disappointing," he said. The victim has also claimed that he had given the phone numbers of the accused to the police but they delayed taking action. When the matter was highlighted on Tuesday, the Congress government faced severe criticism from opposition BJP and others. Police said Gurjar and Kailash were arrested till Tuesday night and Mukesh was placed under arrest on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the state government on Wednesday seeking a report in the matter within six week. Taking cognisance of media reports, the NHRC issued the notice to the chief secretary and the DGP. The Opposition BJP has accused the government of deliberately hiding the case for political reasons during elections, a charge which the ruling Congress has rejected and said that stern action against the accused will be taken. "This is a very serious and shameful incident. The government kept it hidden due to political reasons during elections. The party will be holding a demonstration at all the district headquarters on Thursday," state BJP president Madan Lal Saini said. BJP's Rajya Sabha MP Kirori Lal Meena demanded resignation of the chief minister and also a CBI inquiry into the matter. Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot said that stern action against the culprits will be taken and the matter should not be politicised. Elections were held to 25 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan in two rounds on April 29 and May 6. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three of the five suspects in the Alwar gangrape case have been arrested while the city SP has been shunted out and an SHO suspended in the wake of the April 26 incident in which police have been accused of delaying action on the pretext of poll preparations. The husband of the victim claimed that he had approached the SHO of Thanagazi police station and the SP with his complaint but he was asked to wait as they were busy with the elections. He alleged that an FIR was lodged only on May 2. As the case came into limelight, Inspector General, Jaipur, S Segathir said Wednesday that four people have been arrested and 14 police teams pressed into service to nab the remaining two absconding accused. Those arrested were identified as Indraraj Gurjar, Ashok and Mukesh, he said, adding that Mukesh had also recorded the crime and uploaded the video on social media. On Tuesday night, the Rajasthan government removed Alwar SP Rajiv Pachar and put him under the Awaiting Posting Order status, citing administrative reasons. SHO of the Thanagazi police station Sardar Singh was also suspended and four policemen were taken off active duty. The state government has released an interim relief of Rs 4.12 lakh for the victim as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. Meanwhile, locals took out a protest march in Thanagazi town demanding arrest of all the accused. Protests were also held in Dausa, Jaipur and Churu demanding death penalty for the culprits. On April 26, the accused stopped the couple's motorcycle on Thanagaji-Alwar road and beat the husband. They stripped the couple and raped the woman in front of her husband. One of accused also shot a video. The victim's husband alleged that the police officers did not pay heed to his request for action against the culprits. "The incident occurred on April 26. This all happened for nearly three hours. Initially we kept quiet, but when the accused called me demanding money for not circulating the video, I went to the SP office and gave him a complaint. "He sent me to the SHO of Thanagaji police station where the SHO received the complaint but the FIR was not lodged," the victim's husband told PTI. He claimed that the SHO took him to the scene of the crime on the same day and later asked him to go. "Next day, I called the SHO but he said that policemen were busy in election. When I called the SP, he also gave the same response. I was asked to wait till elections are over. The FIR was lodged on May 2," he said. Narrating the ordeal, he said, "One of the accused called me and demanded money on April 30. He said that the video will be circulated on WhatsApp if I did not give them money. My younger brother told about this to the SP but nothing happened and on May 4, the video was circulated". "We suffered unexplainable nightmare on April 26. When the video was circulated among locals, our dignity was completely lost and when I told this to the police, their reaction was also disappointing," he said. The victim has also claimed that he had given the phone numbers of the accused to the police but they delayed taking action. When the matter was highlighted on Tuesday, the Congress government faced severe criticism from opposition BJP and others. Police said Gurjar and Kailash were arrested till Tuesday night and Mukesh was placed under arrest on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the state government on Wednesday seeking a report in the matter within six week. Taking cognisance of media reports, the NHRC issued the notice to the chief secretary and the DGP. The Opposition BJP has accused the government of deliberately hiding the case for political reasons during elections, a charge which the ruling Congress has rejected and said that stern action against the accused will be taken. "This is a very serious and shameful incident. The government kept it hidden due to political reasons during elections. The party will be holding a demonstration at all the district headquarters on Thursday," state BJP president Madan Lal Saini said. BJP's Rajya Sabha MP Kirori Lal Meena demanded resignation of the chief minister and also a CBI inquiry into the matter. Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot said that stern action against the culprits will be taken and the matter should not be politicised. Elections were held to 25 Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan in two rounds on April 29 and May 6. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Wednesday met President and discussed plans to hold a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21, two days ahead of Lok Sabha results to chalk out a post-poll alliance. Naidu met Gandhi before heading out to West Bengal to attend public rallies in support of the ruling Trinamool in the state, sources said. In a brief meeting, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is believed to have discussed the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue, voting percentage in the recently held five phase polling besides the Andhra Assembly election developments, the sources said. The sources said Naidu and Gandhi also discussed the post-poll scenario and more or less agreed to call a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21. The Lok Sabha elections are being held in seven phases. So far, polling in five phases are over and the counting of votes will be on May 23. Naidu will be meeting West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool chief Mamata Banerjee apart from attending her rallies on Wednesday and Thursday. The Andhra Pradesh CM was in Delhi to attend the Supreme Court hearing on a petition filed by the Opposition parties to review its judgment rejecting 50 per cent random physical verification of EVMs using VVPATs. The apex court dismissed the petition following which the parties again met the Election Commission to press their demand. As Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra held impressive back-to-back roadshows in Delhi on Wednesday, many residents said her face and mannerisms reminded them of her grandmother Indira Gandhi. Neighbours Urmila and Munni in South Delhi's Madangir area, stood on a road divider and waved at Priyanka Gandhi as her caravan passed through busy streets. "She's a spitting image of Indira Gandhi. She looks just the same, same hairstyle, she reminds us of our Indiraji," said an excited Urmila. They both said they had seen former prime minister Indira Gandhi during rallies and felt Priyanka Gandhi's playing a larger role in the party has "revitalised" the party. "I had seen Indira Gandhi at a rally in Aligarh...Today, when BJP politicians attack Nehruji or other members of the Nehru-Gandhi family, our affection for the family only multiplies," Munni said. The roadshow in South Delhi on Wednesday evening, held in support of her party's South Delhi candidate Vijender Singh, began around 7 pm from Virat Cinema and culminated at 8 pm at Tigri traffic intersection on Mehrauli Badarpur Road spanning about 3 km. Congress supporters, some dressed in party colours, other sporting t-shirts bearing image of the Olympian boxer Singh and others waving party flags lined the entire route and chanted slogans like -- "Boxer bhai zindabad, Priyanka Gandhi zindabad", as the duo waved at the elated crowd that included people of all ages. Among the crowd was former Congress councillor from Delhi Om Wati, 54, who also said, "Priyanka Gandhi reminds me a lot about Indira ji." "I have seen Indira Gandhi several times and Priyanka Gandhi waved and interacted the same way. Her looks, her mannerisms, way of talking to people, is just so uncannily similar to her grandmother. And her entering has lent fresh energy to the Congress. Our party will do well," she told PTI. Priyanka Gandhi, wearing a maroon saree and perched atop a white SUV alongside Singh, traversed through the dusty streets of South Delhi, including Indira Camp near Virat Cinema. Along the route, she obliged a few supporters with a selfie and also greeted people who had stationed themselves in their home's balconies to catch a glimpse of her. Along the streets, people of all ages and various religions stood in support of the party and many made videos on their mobile phones. Ayan, a class four student, who was standing at a road divider in Madangir area, when asked, whose roadshow was it, replied innocently, "Indira Gandhi," much to people's amusement. His friend, Shanker, standing beside him, smiled and corrected him, "She is Priyanka Gandhi." Many in the crowd also chanted, "Priyanka nahin ye aandhi hai, doosri Indira Gandhi hai". But not everyone knew what was going on, as Rajni, a labourer hailing from Jhansi, who lives in a J J Colony in Madangir, thought it was the roadshow of Congress president Rahul Gandhi. The back-to-back roadshows from Gandhi came days ahead of the Lok Sabha election in Delhi on May 12. Hours before the South Delhi roadshow, she had also held one for Congress veteran and North East Delhi candidate Sheila Dikshit. Many in the crowd in Seelampuri also chanted the same slogan "Priyanka nahin ye aandhi hai, doosri Indira Gandhi hai". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) As many as 155 people who were arrested from a rave party held illegally at a farmhouse in Greater Noida were granted bail by a local court Wednesday, police said. Five, including the owner of the farmhouse and the organisers of the party, were sent in police remand by the Surajpur court while 32 are in judicial custody, an official said. As many as 161 men and 31 women, including students and working professionals, were arrested from a rave party being held illegally at a farmhouse in Noida on Saturday night. "We have got remand of five of them, including the owner of the farmhouse and the organisers of the illegal event. As many as 155 people were granted bail by the court, while the rest are still in jail," SHO of Sector 49 police station and investigating officer of the case Ajay Aggarwal told PTI. According to police, the five alleged organisers who have been sent in police remand are Kapil Singh Bhati, Adnan Ahmed, Pankaj Sharma, Balesh Kohli and Amit Tyagi, who owns the farmhouse. Thirty-one hookahs, 112 beer bottles, 30 liquor bottles which were meant for sale in Delhi, among other items, were seized from the farmhouse during the raid led by SSP Vaibhav Krishna. The arrested were charged under IPC sections 268 (public nuisance), 278 (making atmosphere noxious to health) and 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), the police said. They were also booked under relevant sections of the Excise Act and the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, they said. Meanwhile, the Noida Police is awaiting response from the Election Commission to take action against a Expressway Police Station SHO who is accused of misusing power in the whole episode. "With the Lok Sabha elections underway, it is a due procedure to take permission of the Election Commission to proceed with action against any official. We have written to the EC and awaiting its response," the SSP said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bangladesh's counter-terrorism police have arrested a suspected Islamic State member who returned to the country after fighting for the militant group in Syria, police said Wednesday. Dhaka launched a major crackdown against homegrown extremist outfits following an attack by a local outfit on a cafe in the capital in 2016 that killed 22 people, including 18 foreigners. Police said Motaj Abdul Majid Kafiluddin Bepari, 33, joined IS in Syria after he travelled to the war-torn country from Saudi Arabia, where he was born to a Bangladeshi parent. He returned to Bangladesh in February and made contact with a new faction of local IS-inspired Islamist extremist outfit Jamayetul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), blamed for a series of attacks, including the 2016 cafe attack, counter-terrorism official Wahiduzzaman Noor told AFP. Officers arrested Bepari near a mosque in Dhaka's Uttara neighbourhood on May 5, and he has been charged under anti-terrorism laws for alleged plans to establish a caliphate in the moderate Muslim-majority country, Noor added. "He went to Syria in 2018 and fought for the IS." Bepari's arrest came after counter-terrorism police alerted airport authorities about the possible return of more than 50 Bangladesh-origin IS extremists after the group's defeat in Syria, deputy commissioner of Dhaka police Mohibul Islam Khan told AFP. This is the latest in a series of IS-related security incidents in Bangladesh. Last week, Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen said the British-born Shamima Begum, who married an Islamic State militant in Syria and whose parents held Bangladeshi citizenship, would "face the death penalty" for terrorism if she came to the South Asian country. And in April, Bangladeshi security forces raided a suspected extremist hideout in Dhaka, killing at least two militants. But on the same day, IS jihadists claimed their first attack in Bangladesh in more than two years, an attack on a group of policemen, the SITE Intelligence Group reported. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Bostons Museum of Visual Arts will introduce contemporary Georgian cinema to viewers on the occasion of the countrys Independence Day celebrations later this month. A selection of films produced over the last five years will be brought to the venue under the series New Wave Now: Georgias Independent Voice. It will be open for big screen viewers at the Boston museum between May 2326. The roster of screenings will include Nana Ekvtimishvili and Simon Gross award-winning feature My Happy Family, Academy Awards-nominated director Zaza Urushadzes recent work The Confession and acclaimed filmmaker George Ovashvilis biopic Khibula about Georgias first president Zviad Gamsakhurdia. The programme also features American director Emily Railsbacks documentary Our Blood Is Wine, centred around Georgias long-running and rich winemaking culture, and The Chair, a satirical feature from prized Soviet- and Georgian cinema figure Eldar Shengelaia. Organisers said their film selection, set to mark Georgias Independence Day on May 26, reflected the turbulent and independent history of both Georgias film scene and the country itself, Agenda.ge reported. Former Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) president Aditya Narayan Misra Wednesday filed a police complaint, alleging that he has been receiving threatening and abusive phone calls for signing a letter condemning Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on Rajiv Gandhi. Misra claimed that he received calls from unknown numbers threatening to kill him and questioning him about Modi's statement. In the complaint submitted to the Maurice Nagar police station in the north district, he alleged that the callers asked him to withdraw his signature and desist from such acts in the future. Police said they were looking into the matter. Over 200 Delhi University teachers had issued a public statement condemning Prime Minister Modi for making "derogatory and untrue" remarks about former PM Rajiv Gandhi. Their statement came after Modi in a rally on Saturday targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale issue and said "your father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as 'Bhrashtachari No 1' (corrupt number 1). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The BJP Wednesday demanded that Congress candidate for the Panaji assembly bypoll Atanasio Monserratte make public the criminal cases pending against him, which is mandatory as per the Supreme Court directives. Addressing a press conference, Goa BJP spokesman Damodar Naik said Monserratte is yet to make public the criminal cases pending against him through advertisements in newspapers, which is necessary as per the SC guidelines. Naik said Monserratte should publicise details about the criminal cases pending against him, at least three times before the campaigning ends on May 17. The by-election for the Panaji Assembly segment is scheduled on May 19 in which Monserratte is pitted against the BJP's Siddharth Kunkolienkar, the Goa Suraksha Manchs Subhash Velingkar and Valmiki Naik of the AAP. The BJP spokesman said Monserratte has specifically mentioned in his affidavit, filed before the Chief Electoral Officer along with his nomination form, that four cases are pending against him. Naik said the cases pending against Monserratte are of grievous nature, including attack on policemen, under POCSO Act, damage to public property, money laundering and others. In July 2018, the police filed a chargesheet against Monserratte, a former minister, in connection with the alleged rape of a minor girl in 2016. The Congress candidate is also facing cases related to human trafficking in 2016 and attack on the Panaji Police Station in 2010. Naik said Monserratte should make public his criminal record "as soon as possible" as the voters of Panaji should know the "character" of the Congress candidate. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday claimed that the BJP government is planning to demolish all the unauthorised colonies in the national capital where about 70 per cent of the city's population resides. Kejriwal alleged that the BJP is planning to demolish these colonies and give the land to builders who would then construct luxurious apartments on it. "About 70 per cent of the city's population resides in unauthorised colonies, where will they go? We have been pressured by the Centre not to invest money in unauthorised colonies and we have also been told by government officials that the BJP is planning to demolish all unauthorised colonies once it comes to power," he told reporters. Kejriwal said his model is to mend the unauthorised colonies and provide them with facilities like sewage lines. "If you want their plans to fail, then strengthen our hands then vote for us," he said. He also claimed that the sealing drive in Delhi was done to bring Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). "People living on rent would not be benefitted by it and they would be rendered homeless," he said. Kejriwal claimed that Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari himself admitted it that the BJP plans to demolish all unauthorised colonies. No immediate response was available from the BJP. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hitting back at Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam for likening Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "modern-day avatar of Aurangzeb", the BJP Wednesday said the opposition party always finds it "useful" to remember what "invaders" did to India and accused it of politicising the ongoing development works here. Protesting the demolition work under the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project in Varanasi, Modi's parliamentary constituency from where he is fighting the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, Nirupam likened the prime minister to "modern-day avatar of Aurangzeb". BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli said, "Nirupam is known to give controversial statements more out of compulsion than conviction. For some strange reasons, Congress finds it always useful to highlight what the invaders did but never recognise the builders of India." Before trying to politicise the development work being done by the PM, the Congress should first explain why the UPA government had "opposed" the existence of Lord Ram in an affidavit given to the Supreme Court and why it had sought to demolish Ram setu or Adam's Bridge, he said. When in power, the Congress never served the interests of Kashi Vishwanath temple all these years and when the Modi government is doing so, then it is playing and offering such controversial statements, Kohli said. The BJP leader asserted that the people of Varanasi and the country will give a resounding reply to the Congress on May 23 when the votes are counted. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Delhi on Wednesday as "jumlebaazi" (rhetoric), saying the real name of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should be 'Bharatiya Jumla Party'. The Aam Aadmi Party said Modi could not even tell five development works that had been implemented by his seven Delhi MPs. "Modi ji you forgot the mention of the fifth political tradition of jumlapanti. Fifteen lakh, full statehood, promise to stop terrorism and stopping black money all turned out to be 'jumlas'. The real name of the BJP should be Bharatiya Jumla Party," Sisodia tweeted. The AAP pointed out that as per the current constitutional set-up, the prime minster and the central government have a very special role in the administrative scheme of Delhi, saying they are directly responsible for land (Delhi Development Authority), police, services and public order in Delhi. "That's the very reason that PM cannot run away from Delhi but just delivering a JUMLA-filled speech for Delhites. He should have presented his report card of last 5 years for Delhi," AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said in a statement. "We spoke to a lot of traders and shopkeepers, they are so disappointed because Modi ji offered no solution for Sealing. People expected him to promise a legislation or Ordinance to stop Sealing but Modi ji is not even promising," the AAP said. On land aspect, the AAP said 60 per cent of the people of Delhi live in unauthorised colonies, but Modi did not explain why the government had "deliberately" stalled regularisation process of these colonies. The AAP said Modi did not tell the people of Delhi why he and the lieutenant governor created "continuous hurdles" for every welfare scheme for Delhites. "He did not explain why doctors, teachers, officers are not being recruited in Delhi in spite of over 2 lakh vacancies," the statement said. "Sadly, Prime Minsiter could not tell even five development works which have been implemented by his seven Members of Parliament." The AAP said law and order is a serious issue and pointed out that the Delhi police is directly under Modi. "There is large scale corruption in the Delhi police and Delhi police needs large scale recruitment, but Modi ji did not even mention the solution for this critical issue," it added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Brazil's national museum said Tuesday it has recovered 200 pieces from its Egypt collection after a devastating fire last September. The collection had 700 pieces and was the largest in Latin America before the blaze. The artifacts recovered include statues, vases and amulets that had been buried inside the casket of a mummy and hadn't seen the light of day since the mummy was buried around 750 B.C. Museum director Alexander Kellner told reporters the museum's recovery effort is being conducted with funds provided by the German government, an online money-raising campaign and an allocation from the previous Brazilian government. He said the new administration of President Jair Bolsonaro hasn't allocated any money for the museum and recovery efforts will soon run out of funding. "Look, all this is going to end, there is no way we can continue," Kellner said. The national museum depends on funding from the Ministry of Education and Kellner said they have not been able to make direct contact with ministry officials. "We need to have direct contact with the minister," he said. "Without the Education Ministry, we won't have another national museum." The ministry didn't respond immediately to requests for comment. The museum was running on a fraction of the budget that officials said they needed when the fire ravaged most of its contents. From 2015 to 2017, the museum spent only $4,000 on safety equipment, according to a nonprofit group that tracks public spending. In total, the museum has recovered just 2,700 artifacts out of the more than 20 million it held before the fire, officials said. An investigation found the fire was caused by an air conditioner that was installed incorrectly. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Britain on Wednesday called Iran's decision to no longer respect the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers an "unwelcome step" that could lead to new Western sanctions. "Today's announcement from Tehran is, I have to say to the House, an unwelcome step. We urge Iran not to take further escalatory steps and to stand by its commitments," Foreign Office minister Mark Field told parliament. Prime Minister Theresa May's spokesman later told reporters: "We are extremely concerned about this announcement." "This deal is a crucial agreement which makes the world safer and we will ensure it remains in place for as long as Iran upholds these commitments," he said. The spokesman said Britain would hold talks with its partners, particularly France and Germany, over next steps. Field said: "We are not at this stage talking about re-imposing sanctions, but one has to remember that they were, of course, lifted in exchange for the nuclear restrictions as part of that JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action)." But he added: "Should Iran cease meeting its nuclear commitments, there would of course be consequences". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Enthused by the response to its products in India, British consumer tech firm Dyson is looking at developing and introducing more products in the coming years with a focus on Indian customers, a company official said. Dyson, which ventured into the Indian market last year, sees India as an important market and on Wednesday introduced three new products to strengthen its product portfolio. "Our India market is growing very well. We are developing best technologies for the Indian homes for best user experience," Dyson VP Health and Beauty Paul Dawson said. Dyson forayed into the Indian market in February 2018 and currently operates in segments such as cord free vacuum cleaner, hair care (dryers) and air purifiers. "India is one of our important market for us which needs the products which we have," Dawson said. He further added: "We are quite happy with the way the India business is growing and the way our products have been received by the Indian consumers." On being asked if the company has any plans to have an assembling or manufacturing unit in India after volumes pick up, Dawson said it would be one thing for future discussions and the decision would be made "when skill sets and supply chains are best placed." Dyson India is a part of the company's Middle East Asia, South East Asia and Australia region. The company is currently operating three stores in India and also has online presence through its own portal and Amazon, besides some selected outlets of Croma. The company Wednesday introduced Dyson V11 Absolute Pro cord-free vacuum in the Indian market in two variants priced at Rs 52,900 onwards. According to the company, 315 engineers were involved in the project, with over 32,500 parts prototyped. Dyson V11 would be available at Dyson demo stores, online sales channel Amazon and select Croma stores. Besides, Dyson also introduced the Dyson Lightcycle task light in Southeast Asia and India markets. It is engineered to provide the right light for the right time of day. It took more than two years to develop it with over 892 prototypes made and more than 90 engineers involved, Dyson said. It has been engineered to support body clock with local daylight tracking that continually adjusts colour temperature and brightness in relation to local daylight, Dyson claimed. Lightcycle task light uses a unique time, date and location driven algorithm to calculate the colour temperature and brightness of daylight anywhere in the world. The Lightcycle task light has been priced at Rs 39,900 and would be available from May 15 in the Indian market. The company also introduced Dyson Pure Cool Me, a personal air purifier and fan. It is an air purifier fan that cools personal space with clean air. Dyson has priced it at Rs 25,900 and it would be available in the Indian market from June 1. Dyson is a global technology company which employs over 12,000 people globally, including 4,500 engineers and scientists. It has engineering and testing operations in Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines and the UK. In September 2017, Dyson had announced to work on electric vehicle for three years. It said it would invest 2 billion British Pounds for foray into the development of electric vehicles for launch in 2021. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Canadian man handed the death penalty for drug smuggling in China will appeal his sentence Thursday, in a case that has deepened the diplomatic rift between Beijing and Canada. The appeal comes against the backdrop of Beijing's anger over the December arrest of Meng Wanzhou, a senior executive at Chinese tech giant Huawei, who faces a US extradition hearing in Canada on Wednesday. Robert Lloyd Schellenberg was sentenced to death on drug trafficking charges in January. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau denounced the decision as "arbitrarily" chosen. Schellenberg's appeal will take place Thursday morning at the Dalian Intermediate People's Court in northeastern Liaoning province, a source familiar with the case told AFP. The Dalian court declined to comment. The provincial level Liaoning High People's Court did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. "Canada remains extremely concerned that China has chosen to apply the death penalty, a cruel and inhumane punishment," Canadian foreign ministry spokeswoman Brittany Fletcher said in an email to AFP. Canadian officials plan to attend Thursday's hearing. "Canada has requested, and will continue to seek, clemency for Mr Schellenberg," she said. Schellenberg was originally sentenced to 15 years in prison and a 150,000-yuan (USD 22,000) forfeiture in November. But following an appeal, the high court in Liaoning ruled in December that the sentence was too lenient given the severity of his crimes. About a month later, his sentence was changed to capital punishment. China has executed foreigners for drug-related crimes in the past, including a Japanese national in 2014, a Filipina in 2013, and a Briton in 2009. Last week, another Canadian, Fan Wei, was sentenced to death for drug trafficking in a separate case in southern China. Schellenberg's case is seen as potential leverage for Meng, who was arrested on a US extradition request related to Iran sanctions violations -- a link that Beijing has repeatedly denied. Following the Huawei executive's arrest in December, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in what observers saw as retaliation. Days after Canada launched the extradition process against Meng in March, China announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets. It alleged fellow Canadian Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Both men have been denied access to lawyers and allowed only monthly consular visits. Meng is free on bail in Vancouver as the extradition process continues. The diplomatic row appears to have has spilled over into the economic arena: China has banned Canadian canola shipments worth billions of dollars. Beijing has punished other countries with trade sanctions over diplomatic spats in the past. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Caste equations and unauthorised colonies are in focus in the North-East Delhi parliamentary constituency from where political heavyweights - three-time chief minister Sheila Dikshit, BJP's Manoj Tiwari and AAP's Dilip Pandey -will try their luck in the May 12 polls. The constituency has the highest concentration of Poorvanchalis, Muslims and migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, who play a decisive role during elections. The Congress is confident that its vote bank, be it Muslims, Dalits and low income groups, who had shifted to the AAP in the 2015 Assembly polls, will return to its fold after seeing the Kejriwal party's "failure" in fulfilling its pre-poll promises. The party has fielded Dikshit, who ruled Delhi for 15 years till 2013, against BJP's incumbent MP and party's Delhi unit president Tiwari and Aam Aadmi Party's Dilip Pandey who is making debut in this election. Pandey is also former AAP's Delhi unit convenor.The constituency has around 23 per cent Muslims, concentrated largely in Mustafabad, Seelampur and Ghonda assembly segments. There are about 1.43 crore voters in the national capital which send seven members to Parliament. The city goes to polls on May 12. According to the chief electoral office, there are around 22.89 lakh voters in the North-East Lok Sabha constituency, and of these,nearly 12.52 lakh are male voters while there are over 10.37 lakh female voters. In the constituency, there are also some sections of people who appreciate the AAP government's works in education and health sectors in the national capital. Development in unauthorised colonies, bad roads and poor quality of water are also some poll issues on which basis people want to vote. Sunil Tyagi, a resident of Burari, said roads are in a bad state. "The supply of contaminated water is a regular affair. One cannot drink tap water.Roads in Burari area are not in a good condition. Dust here is the main source of bad air quality," Tyagi said. There are nearly 270 unauthorised colonies and more than 46 slum clusters across 10 assembly constituencies falling in North-East Delhi. Assembly constituencies- Burari, Seemapuri, Seelampur, Timarpur, Ghonda, Babarpur, Gokulpur, Mustafabad, Karawal Nagar and Rohtash Nagar are part of the North-East Delhi parliamentary constituency. Asked about her plans for North-East Delhi, Dikshit said she was saddened over "poor condition of roads and sanitation" in the area. "It makes me sad as essential things like roads and cleanliness are missing. Unless we do something about these, no city looks like one. Houses in the area are so haphazard, there is no planning," she said. "Nothing is done when houses and shops come up and then suddenly you say it's illegal. That is very unfair. A city needs to be developed according to needs of the people. If you do not do so, you ruin the people and their livelihood means," she also said. Dikshit successfully led the Congress in the 1998, 2003 and 2008 Assembly polls, but the party suffered a rout in the 2013 elections under her. The Congress could not even open its account in the 2014 Lok Sabha and the 2015 Assembly elections in Delhi. On his part, BJP's Tiwari said his priority is to provide pucca houses to slum dwellers in the North-East constituency. "I also want to develop Yamuna river front for which work is already moving in the right direction. Efforts will also being made to bring the Delhi Metro network to Burari area of North East Delhi. "The constituency also witnesses traffic jams and I will also work to end this situation," he said. Dilip Pandey, whose AAP has been raising the issue of full statehood to Delhi in this election, said the city is facing a ridiculous situation, adding powers of the elected government here are limited and have been curtailed by the Centre. "We are fighting these elections on the plank of full statehood to Delhi. Once Delhi gets full statehood, most of the problems Delhi faces due to multiplicity of agencies would be solved which is our main poll plank," Pandey said. Ramesh Sharma, a resident of Timarpur, is unhappy with incumbent BJP MP and party candidate Tiwari as he seldom came to his area. "Since Tiwari become an MP, he came to Burari two or three times," he claimed. In the 2014 general elections, Tiwari got 596125 votes, defeating AAP's Anand Sharma who got 452041. Congress' Jai Parkash Agarwal, who is now pitted against Union minister Harsh Vardhan and AAP's Pankaj Gupta from Chandni Chowk constituency, polled 214792 in the last Georgia will have their economic envoys in seven countries worldwide starting from 2020, Georgian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Alexander Khvtisiashvili said. "Economic envoys of Georgia are to operate in the US, Germany, Turkey, China, Japan, United Arab Emirates and United Kingdom, he said. Georgia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already announced a public competition to fill a vacancy of economic envoy. Some 50 people are competing for seven vacant places. Members of a specially created commission are to hold an interview with candidates, as soon as they are selected, NewsGeorgia reported. The candidates selection process is to be done by fall, then the selected candidates are to undergo training. Only after that, by 2020, they are to start operating. Currently, in each Georgian Embassy there is a commercial attache. The Centre Wednesday approached the Supreme Court challenging the verdict of Madras High Court which held that Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi "cannot interfere" in the day-to-day affairs of the elected government of the Union Territory. The matter was mentioned for urgent listing before a bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta. "There is a standstill in the governance there (Puducherry)," Mehta told the bench while seeking urgent listing of the matter. The bench, however, declined the request and said it had earlier made it clear that advocates seeking urgent listing of their matters can give the listing memos to the registrar. On April 30, the Madras High Court had allowed a plea filed by K Laksminarayanan, a Congress MLA, and set aside the two communications issued in January and June 2017 by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs "elevating" the power of the administrator. Referring to the Supreme Court judgement on the tussle between Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Lt Governor Anil Baijal, the high court had said that restrictions imposed on Government of Delhi are not applicable to the Government of Puducherry. "The Administrator cannot interfere in the day-to-day affairs of the government. The decision taken by the Council of Ministers and the Chief Minister is binding on the Secretaries and other officials," the high court had said. Laksminarayanan had claimed in his petition before the high court that the administrator was interfering in the day-to-day administration of the territorial government, its policies and programmes. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Recent satellite photographs indicate China's construction of its third aircraft carrier is well underway, a Washington think tank reported Tuesday. ChinaPower, a unit of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, published photos of a large vessel under construction at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai. The bow and hull are already under assembly, the pictures indicated, and are likely to be the beginnings of the 80-85,000 tonne type 002 aircraft carrier the Chinese navy has been known to be planning. "Visible through the clouds and mist is what looks to be a bow and main hull section of a large vessel," ChinaPower said. "While details regarding the Type 002 are limited, what is observable at Jiangnan is consistent with what is expected for the People's Liberation Army Navy's third aircraft carrier." China's first carrier, the three decade-old, 66,000 tonne Liaoning, was acquired from Russia. The second, a home-built carrier designated Type 001A and based on the Liaoning's design began sea trials, one year ago. ChinaPower said that, based on the photos, the Jiangnan shipyard appears to be building a new tower crane, a floodable ship basin and a launching channel to accommodate the huge new carrier. In a report published online, ChinaPower said the carrier is expected to be completed in 2022. In January a senior Chinese naval expert said the country needs "at least" three carriers to defend its coastline and global interests. "Our country has an 18,000-kilometre (11,000-mile) long coastline. Also, our economy is outward looking and our interests abroad are growing," said Commodore Zhang Junshe, a member of the Naval Research Institute. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The bilateral trade volume between US and China dropped by 20 per cent in the first four months of this year following a trade war between the world's two largest economies and it could get worse if US President Donald Trump goes ahead and clamp punitive tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of Chinese imports this week, according to official data. The data - released by the General Administration of Customs here ahead of the crucial 11th round of trade talks to be held in Washington on May 9-10 - said that from January to April, the trade between the two countries was 1.1 trillion yuan (USD 173 billion), down from 20 per cent in 2017 prior to they engaged in a tit-for-tat trade tussle last year. If Trump goes ahead with his threat to raise tariffs on USD 200 billion worth of Chinese imports from 10 per cent to 25 per cent Friday, the bilateral trade is poised to tumble further, inflicting deeper wounds on the two sides and claiming collateral damages on others, state-run Global Times reported. The 11th round of talks between China and the US are being held amid uncertainties about future rounds of parleys as Trump administration officials accused Beijing of back tracking from issues agreed in the previous rounds of talks. Asked about the allegations, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told the media on Wednesday that negotiation itself is a process of discussion. It is natural for the two sides to have differences, he said. "China will not sidestep contradictions but we are sincere about continuing the consultations," he said on Tuesday. In April, China's exports denominated in US dollar terms shifted into reverse, signalling growing downward pressure amid rising uncertainties in world trade amid an ongoing trade conflict between Washington and Beijing. In April, China's exports reached USD193.49 billion, down 2.7 per cent year-on-year, much lower than expected, GAC data showed. Imports of US goods fell 26 per cent from a year earlier to USD 10.3 billion, while China's exports to US were down by 13 per cent at USD 31.4 billion. Trump is demanding China to reduce the USD 375 billion trade deficit. He also called for verifiable measures for protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), technology transfer and more access to American goods to Chinese markets. He has already increased the tariffs on over USD 250 billion Chinese exports to US and threatened to extend tariffs on USD 200 billion Chinese imports to 25 per cent. China too slapped reciprocal tariffs on some US exports to the country. Trump recently hinted that President Xi Jinping could visit the US in June setting off speculation that both countries could work out a trade deal by next month. Media reports suggest that the two sides are still discussing key issues on structural issues, such as the US accusation of unfair subsidies in China, a mechanism to verify compliance and what to do with the tariffs the two have already imposed on each other's goods. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Cleanliness, bringing metro service to ease traffic congestion and job creation were highlights of the manifesto released by Congress candidate Pawan Kumar Bansal for Chandigarh here. He said the manifesto for Chandigarh aims at restoring the glory and prestige of the city. "The Chandigarh spirit is being assailed by irregular expansion, increased traffic... inadequate parking spaces and public transportation system. "The city suffers the ignominy of rising crime against women. We have to make it safe and create a more kind and gentle society that cares for those at risk the most," he said. The manifesto emphasis on restoring the clean and pollution-free environment of the city, its colonies and surrounding villages, boost community parking and starting the metro service to solve the problem of traffic congestion. "We have to ensure that Chandigarh stays 'city beautiful' and not let its unique ethos be tampered with or torn asunder. With your (people's) support, it will be my primary duty to restore the glory and prestige of Chandigarh and preserve the vibrancy, grace and dignity that makes our city truly one of its kind," Bansal said. The Congress candidate from Chandigarh also envisioned a crime-free city with emphasis on security for women, meaningful job creation for the youth, bringing more funds from the Centre for education, health, roads, parks and other infrastructure. He also promised to work towards making round-the-clock water supply a "reality", introduce happiness curriculum in schools and ensure that the public demand for regularizing outstanding need-based changes in residential and commercial buildings is met. The former railway minister also said contractual and temporary employees will be regularized and a transparent transfer policy will be adopted for them. He promised that if he gets elected to parliament, notices to traders and industrialists will be withdrawn and floor area ratio for their shops will be increased. A "far-sighted vendor policy" would be put in place and Chandigarh will be developed as a tourism hub to give a fillip to businesses, he said. The manifesto promised that infrastructure and facilities in villages will get a renewed focus and micro-planning will ensure that each hamlet is developed as self-sustaining modern units. On the lines of Hauz Khas in Delhi, these villages will generate their own economic activity, including cottage industry, boutiques and street art, it stated. Bansal also promised that once elected, he will report real time on his website and Facebook page about issues, works and projects taken up. The former railway minister is pitted against sitting MP and BJP candidate Kirron Kher and AAP's Harmohan Dhawan in the Chandigarh Lok Sabha seat. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A delegation of Congress MLAs Wednesday met Assembly Speaker Rajendra Trivedi in Gandhinagar and appealed to him to disqualify BJP legislator Pabubha Manek whose election has been invalidated by the Gujarat High Court for submitting a "defective" nomination form. Despite the April 12 HC order invalidating Manek's election from the Dwarka Assembly constituency in 2017, he has not been disqualified yet, Congress leaders told reporters after the meeting and accused Trivedi of acting in a "partisan" manner. The delegation, which had around 15 MLAs, also urged the Speaker to take action against OBC leader Alpesh Thakor, who had won the 2017 Assembly election on a Congress ticket and last month announced quitting the opposition party. While quitting the Congress, the MLA from Radhanpur in Patan district had not resigned from the Assembly. Prominent members of the delegation were Gujarat Congress president Amit Chavda, Leader of Opposition Paresh Dhanani and chief whip Ashwin Kotwal. The party had on April 25 made a representation before the Speaker, seeking his disqualification from the assembly after he resigned from all party posts. Congress leaders alleged the Speaker was acting in a "partisan" manner as he was quick to disqualify Congress MLA Bhagvan Barad and independent MLA Bhupendrasinh Khant, but was dragging his feet when it came to taking similar action against a BJP legislator. Barad, the MLA from Talala constituency, was disqualified after he was convicted in an illegal mining case in February. The HC had rejected his plea against his disqualification, which was stayed by the Supreme Court on appeal. Khant, the independent MLA from Morva Hadaf in Panchmahal district, was disqualified on May 3, weeks after the High Court invalidated his caste certificate. The HC had said Khant, who was elected from the tribal-reserved seat, did not belong to an ST community. "The post of Assembly Speaker is above party He is expected to work in a non-partisan manner. We met and requested the Speaker to take action against Pabubha Manek after the Gujarat High Court rejected his election from Dwarka for submitting a defective nomination form. "Even the Supreme Court has not given any stay on the HC order. In such a situation, he should be disqualified as a legislator...we appealed this to the Speaker," said Chavda. "The Speaker verbally told us that Maneks salary as an MLA has been blocked and he is not allowed to attend any meeting as an MLA. When we sought a copy of the order, he refused," Chavda said. He said the Speaker was adopting "double standard" when it came to taking action against MLAs from the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress. "Barad was disqualified even when the Supreme Court had stayed his conviction. Even in case of Khant, his appeal for a stay of the HC order is pending in the Supreme Court. "But decisions regarding their disqualification were taken overnight and they were removed," he said. Chavda said the Congress delegation also raised the issue of action against Thakor. "Thakor worked against Congress candidates during the Lok Sabha polls by campaigning against them. Till today, no action has been taken against him. "We requested the Speaker to take action against him as per the law, the Gujarat Congress chief said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union minister Smriti Irani Wednesday blasted Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, saying his party has "joined hands" with a political outfit whose candidate was baying for Prime Minister Narendra Modis blood. Taking a jibe at Gandhi, the BJP leader said he was day-dreaming to become the next prime minister. "I am saddened that the Congress has stooped so low. His ally says give Rs 50 crore to kill Modi. I want to ask Rahul Gandhi with whom you had forged an alliance, its candidate has said if he gets money he will kill Modi. "The Congress has joined hands with such people," Irani said at an election rally here. "Is this the so called love which Rahul was showing for Modi? she asked. Irani was apparently referring to a video in which Tej Bahadur Yadav, the sacked BSF soldier whose nomination as the SP candidate from Varanasi was rejected by the EC, is purportedly talking about assassinating Modi. Taking potshots at Gandhi, she said, "He is a gentleman who winked in Parliament." She said people witnessed Gandhis gesture of supporting those who raised the slogan of "Bharat Tere Tukde Honge (India will be dismembered) at a university in Delhi. "Not only this, Congress leaders have called the Army chief a goon and the Air Force chief a liar," she said. Describing Modi as a poor womans son, who is the prime servant of the country, the BJP leader said he has provided toilets and cooking gas facility to crores of women in the country under the NDA government's welfare schemes. Irani has contested against Gandhi in the Amethi Lok Sabha seat, which went to the polls on May 6. Sagar is among the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that will go the polls on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said after five phases of election, the Congress-led opposition has given up the fight and the "situation is clear" now that the BJP will form government at the Centre. He said with the blessings of the people, the BJP-led NDA formed the government in 2014 and in the past five years, India's stature has increased in the world. "Now, the situation is quite clear, with the blessings of countrymen, when results will be out by May 23 evening, it will once again be 'Phir ek Bar (Modi government again)'," the prime minister said in a rally in Haryana's Fatehabad. "The Congress and their 'mahamilavati' allies have given up the fight, and their intention to form a 'kichdi aur majboor sarkar' in Delhi has fallen flat, Modi said. He alleged that the Congress has done "brashtachar ki kheti and the proof is in Haryana and elsewhere. Ten Lok Sabha seats of Haryana go to polls in the sixth phase on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With resentment brewing among a section of people here over "indiscriminate" notices being served to them by NRC authorities, the Congress has submitted a memorandum to the District Registrar of Citizen's Registration, seeking suspension of the "arbitrary" practice. In its memorandum, the district Congress committee alleged that minorities were being harassed even after due verification of their documents during the preparation of the complete draft National Register of Citizens (NRC), published last year. The NRC aims to separate "genuine" citizens from "illegal immigrants". The complete draft of the register, published in July, 2018, had excluded 40.07 lakh names out of the 3.29 crore applicants. A window ending December 31, 2018, was provided for those who wanted to file claims for re-inclusion. Within this same period, people who suspected that foreigners have made their way to the list were also allowed to file their objections. The final list is slated to be released by July 31. The Congress memorandum claimed that "fictitious" persons with ulterior motive were raising complaints and objections, based on which the authorities were issuing notices to "genuine" citizens. The complainants do not appear before the authorities during the time of hearing of their pleas, it alleged. "It is not even clear whether the complainants have an application receipt number or detailed address," it stated. The memorandum, a copy of which was sent to NRC State Coordinator Prateek Hajela, also sought "immediate steps against the illegal and arbitrary process adopted by some Local Register of Citizens Registers of Kokrajhar district". The party 'demanded "appropriate action against "unscrupulous complainants". Several organisations have come out in protest against the alleged harassment being meted out to the minorities, as part of the claims and objection verification process. The All Bodo Minority Students Union (ABMSU) has threatened to move court against the "fabricated objections". Abu Sayed Ansari, the president of ABMSU-BTAD unit, said, "If the complainants do not withdraw the objections immediately, we will move the court against them." Echoing similar sentiment, Gopal Ghosh, the zonal committee president of the All Assam Bengali Youth Students Federation, said, "If no steps are taken to stop this arbitrary practice, we will launch a democratic movement." The Supreme Court had last year restrained NRC authorities from talking to the press on this politically charged issue, without its approval. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday alleged that the Congress doesn't deserve to get votes as it is "more concerned about Pakistan than India". Addressing a poll rally here to canvass for the BJP's Guna Lok Sabha seat candidate K P Yadav, Adityanath alleged that not only Congress president Rahul Gandhi, but his sister and the party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra too speaks lies. "Rahul Gandhi does not deserve votes as he is more concerned about Pakistan. If India is in trouble, he doesn't think about the people," the BJP leader told an election meeting here. He alleged that the Congress president sensed defeat in Amethi which is why he contested the polls also from Wayanad in Kerala. Referring to a viral video, purportedly showing children using abusive language in front of Priyanka Gandhi, Adityanath alleged, "She was teaching abuses to children after people refused to vote for the Congress. This is not a good conduct on the part of a woman." Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had earlier clarified that she had stopped children from raising wrong slogans and asked them to raise good slogans. Adityanath also claimed that what the Narendra Modi government achieved in the last five years, the Congress could not do in 50 years. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday said the Rafale deal would be probed if his party came to power after the Lok Sabha elections and claimed the inquiry would throw up two names - that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Anil Ambani. Gandhi once again challenged Modi for a debate on the Rafale deal at any place "except Ambani's residence" and maintained the prime minister would not be able to face the country as truth in the deal would surface. Addressing a poll rally here, Gandhi also raked up the 1999 release of Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar to attack Modi over the issue of nationalism. Raising questions over why the contract related to Rafale was awarded to Ambani, Gandhi asked Modi to come clear on why the fighter jet was purchased at Rs 1,600 crore (per plane) from France by the NDA govement as against Rs 526 crore negotiated by the Congerss-led UPA regime. "You (Modi) won't be able to debate with me on the issue for 15 minutes...you won't be able to stand before India. Remember one thing, no can be saved from the truth. "There would be probe into the Rafale scam and two names will come: Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani," Gandhi said. In the past, Ambani has claimed the government had no role in his company, Reliance Defence, getting an offset contract related to the Rafale deal. On the release of Jaish-e-Mohammed founder Azhar, Gandhi said it was a BJP, and not a Congress, government that had released the terrorist. "The BJP government took the terrorist out from India's jail, put him aboard a plane, BJP's minister took the (same) flight and BJP's minister gave money to Jaish-e- Mohammed. "And the same terrorist killed CRPF men in Pulwama. Modi should answer who did this job," Gandhi said. Azhar and two other terrorists were set free by the Vajpayee government in exchange of hostages of the IC-814 Indian Airlines flight hijacked to Kandahar in December 1999. Azhar later went on to set up the Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror outfit that claimed responsibility for the February 14 suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama. Gandhi also hit out at BJP leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for alleging that farmers have not received benefits of the loan waiver announced by the Kamal Nath government in the state. To drive home his point, the Congress chief said Chouhan's brothers were among those who had received loan waiver. Gandhi talked about the party's Nyay scheme, a minimum income guarantee programme that envisaged giving Rs 72,000 per year to five crore poor families of the country. He said that the Congress will ensure farmers are not jailed in the event their failure to repay debts, if it is voted to power. Gwalior is among the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that will vote on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili will pay official visits to Latvia and Estonia in the mid-May, the presidents press spokesperson Khatia Moisprarishvili said. The Georgian President's official visit to Latvia will be held on May 14-16 and to Estonia on 17-19 May. High-level meetings will be held within the frames of both visits, including with the pPresidents of Latvia and Estonia. The meetings will be held both within face to face and extended formats, 1TV.ge cited Moisrafishvili as saying. A Nigerian, arrested for allegedly possessing drugs, has been sentenced to 3-year imprisonment by a Delhi court for illegally staying in India since 2016 without a valid visa. Additional Sessions Judge Rajesh Kumar Singh convicted Darlington Chiemezie under section 14 (staying in India after the expiry of visa) of the Foreigners Act and said that he be deported to his country after completion of his sentence. "The accused did not claim that he had entered India on a valid visa or that at the relevant time, he had a valid visa. He also did not produce his passport," the court said. "It has also been seen that even if his contention that he had come to India in 2015 on a visa valid for six months is accepted, the inescapable conclusion is that at the time of his apprehension and arrest in this case, he had no valid visa for his stay in India. He committed the offence under section 14 of the Foreigners Act and the prosecution has successfully proved this charge beyond reasonable doubt," it said in a recent order. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 on the convict. Chiemezie was arrested in October 2016 for allegedly possessing contraband drugs. The police claimed that cocaine weighing 104 grams was recovered from him. However, the court has acquitted him for the charges of illegal possession of contraband drugs. During questioning, he could not produce valid visa for his entry and stay here. According to the prosecution, the police had written letters to the Foreigner's Regional Registration Office (FRRO) and to Nigerian High Commission but no information could be obtained regarding his entry and exit from the country. Chiemezie had claimed that he came to India in 2015 on a genuine passport and a valid visa and he had lost the passport while shifting his residence. He further claimed that on the day of his arrest, the police officials had forcibly taken him to an unknown place and obtained his signature on some blank and typed papers. The Nigerian had told them that he could make effort to search the passport if he was taken to his house but he claimed that they refused to take him to his house. He also claimed that he was not carrying the contraband drugs and recovery has been planted. While in custody, he was later issued a new passport by the Nigerian High Commission after his lawyer had moved an application for the same. "The issue in respect of the charge under the Foreigners Act, is whether at the time of his apprehension, the accused had valid permission to remain in India. When asked, the accused stated that he came to India on a valid visa for six months... Even, if his submission that he had valid visa for coming to India is accepted, it is clear that as on October, 2016 he had no valid visa for his stay in India," the court said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi's air quality nosedived to 'very poor' on Wednesday and is expected to deteriorate further to 'severe' category due to dust storm in northwest India, the Centre-run SAFAR said. According to the System of Air Quality and Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) was at 341 on Wednesday which falls in 'very poor' category. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in the national capital was recorded at 339. Gufran Beig, an scientist at SAFAR, said whole of northwest Indian, including north Gujarat, Rajasthan, parts of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi are going to be in the grip of dust storm from tonight. "As the storm dust is now arrested in Delhi and combining with local dust lifting, further deterioration of air quality is expected for today and tomorrow. Air quality is predicted to touch severe category late tonight and will continue to be so till May 10," he said. Beig said the "origin of the current episode" is widespread dust from dry arid west Rajasthan region due to high temperature and favourable wind speed. "Most of the northwest region is going to have very poor to sever air quality during next two days (till May 10). After that, Delhi's air quality is expected to improve due to western disturbance and thunderstorm. But occasional episodes of sudden peaking of dust at isolated places in Delhi cannot be ruled out," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three-time APRC champions Gaurav Gill will look for top honours in the four-wheel category, while CS Santosh would hope to overcome his 2019 Dakar Rally disappointment in the 17th Desert Storm that kicked off here on Wednesday. India's most prestigious international motorsports event, the Desert Storm 2019, roared into the scorching sands of Bikaner here on Wednesday, with the who's who of the fraternity ready to whip up a superstorm in their quest for honour and glory. Gill, Sandeep Sidhu, Lhakpa Tsering and Philippos Matthai led the four-wheeler brigade while Dakar Rally exponent Santosh, R Nataraj, Aishwarya PM and Imran Pasha topped the two-wheeler charge, setting the stage for a battle royale. The 17th edition of the Desert Storm, an FMSCI-approved event, has become the ultimate test for man and machine, with the temperature soaring past 50 degrees this summer. The organisers, Northern Motorsports, have made a rare concession this year, scheduling the special stages early in the morning and late in the evening to counter the heat. As many as 130 participants were flagged off from New Delhi on Tuesday afternoon, making it one of the biggest event in the country already. This included a staggering number of manufacturers, who have adopted this platform to test their cars and bikes. "This is the most amazing line-up that I have ever seen," Gill said at the flag-off. "Almost all the top manufacturers are here which is the best thing that could have happened to the sport." The motorsports fraternity also got the opportunity to cheer the comeback of the Army, who fielded ten teams in the four-wheeler category and three in the two-wheeler category. The four-day Storm, in the Rally-Raid format, will take the competitors deep into the undulating dunes of the Thar desert in Rajasthan before culminating in Jaisalmer. Each will be tested by extreme weather conditions, tough terrains and navigational challenges as they make their way to the finish line. There are three categories this year, with 34 teams (comprising of a driver and a co-driver) in the Xtreme Category, 8 teams (comprising of Driver & Co-Driver) in the Ndure Category, and 40 riders in the Moto Category. Ten Special Stages have been conceived for the Xtreme category and seven for the Moto category, each tougher than the last one. The longest stage for them will feature a grueling 200km run in the extreme wilderness. The Ndure Category follows the TSD format and is the stepping stone for the drivers to take part in next edition's Xtreme. The drivers and riders will be covering a distance of 2,000 kilometres over the next four days. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Foreign origin cigarettes and gold worth Rs 7.11 crore besides Red sanders and endangered shells were seized over the last six days in different cases and nine people arrested in this connection, DRI officials said here Wednesday. DRI sleuths seized 7.9 kg of gold worth Rs 2.61 crore from two passengers who arrived from Assam at the Chennai Egmore Railway Station Wednesday. The duo allegedly smuggled the gold across the India-Myanmar border by concealing it in specially made pockets stitched to their clothes, a Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) release said. Foreign cigarettes, which are prohibited for import and sale under the Customs act, were seized from Chennai port on May 2. The cigarettes, concealed in cartons, were declared as diapers. About 30 lakh cigarettes worth Rs 4.5 crore were seized, the release said. In another incident, DRI officials intercepted six passengers bound for Singapore from Chennai airport and recovered 180 kg of 352 large shells. The shells belong to endangered marine species 'Turbo marmoratus' listed in the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. In another case, 14 tons of Red sanders were recovered at Chennai Port Trust and Krishnapatnam Port in Andhra Pradesh which were declared as textile materials and food items. Nine people have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the series of smugglings, the release added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Election Commission of India Wednesday announced conducting repolling in 13 polling stations in Tamil Nadu, where the Lok Sabha elections were held on April 18. The repolling in Dharmapuri, Tiruvallur, Theni and Erode will be held on May 19, state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Satyabrata Sahoo told reporters. "ECI has informed about repoll in 13 polling stations in Tamil Nadu. It will be conducted on May 19," he said. The repolling will be held in eight polling stations in Dharmapuri, two in Theni and one each in Cuddalore, Tiruvallur and Erode, he said. Earlier,the CEO had recommended repolling in Dharmapuri following alleged irregularities. He said on Wednesday that clearances had been done 'incorrectly' after mock poll for EVM and VVPAT in some places which had been reported to the ECI. The ECI had subsequently taken the decision on repolling. The Commission's move also comes amidst the Opposition objecting to shifting of EVMs from Coimbatore to Theni and Erode last night, though the CEO clarified that it was 'normal', keeping in mind the requirements in case of a repolling. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram Wednesday said macro economic indicators confirm that the Indian economy has entered a "disastrous phase of slowdown" and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for their failures. He also accused Jaitley of perfecting the art of "concealing" data and projecting "doctored" information. "The Finance Ministry's report is a damning indictment of the state of the economy in the country. This is perhaps the weakest point in the economy," he told reporters here, adding the next government has a lot of work to repair the economy to which the BJP has done "great damage". "With each passing day, as Modi indulges in vile rhetoric, the Finance Minister blogs poor attempts at rationalising that language. Between the rhetoric and the blogging, this government has forgotten the economy. The next government has a huge task of reviving the economy. Thankfully, the Congress party is ready to steer the Indian economy out of the Modi-Jaitley slump," he said. The former Finance minister said the economy has gone to "rack and ruin" and the Finance Ministry's report for March 2019 lays bare the "false propaganda" of the BJP government. "The NSSO revelations have blown a huge hole in the growth figures put out by the CSO. It turns out that the government has been using bogus data. "The CSO's growth figures are a sham. The CSO's complicity in putting out false data is a scam that needs to be investigated first," he said, alleging that the political leadership has "interfered" and "intimidated" the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO). "However much Modi may try to take the narrative away from the economy, ultimately the people will vote on issues that affect their daily lives -- jobs, infrastructure, investment, farmers' distress and debt, ruin of MSMEs, stagnant incomes," he noted. The Congress leader said the Indian economy has entered a "disastrous" phase of economic slowdown under the Modi-Jaitley "jugalbandi" reflected by the consistent fall in quarterly growth of real GDP. He claimed that a shortfall of Rs 1.6 lakh crore in the tax revenues would effectively increase the actual fiscal deficit to 3.9 per cent and "the economy is expected to slow down further". He said once in power, the Congress will adopt a sectoral approach to revive various sectors of economy and find a solution to each of them, besides consolidating banks. "The Finance Minister has perfected the art of concealing data and projecting doctored information. Contrary to the false narratives of the Modi Government, the poorest Indians have been worst sufferers of the economic mismanagement," he said. The former minister said the Oxfam's Global Inequality Report 2018 showed that 73 per cent of the wealth generated in India in 2017-2018 was pocketed by the richest 1 per cent of the Indian populace, while the poorest 50 per cent saw a marginal increase of 1 per cent in their wealth over the same period. Chidambaram also dubbed the prime minister as being "the 'Naukri Vinash' PM" claiming that in 2018 India lost over 1.1 crore jobs and said Modi is the first premier whose legacy will be of a job destroying PM" built on the two "Tughlaqi farmans" of demonetisation and "Gabbar Singh Tax", referring to Goods and Services Tax (GST). "The leaked NSSO survey reports that the unemployment rate reached a 45-year high of 6.1 per cent in 2017 (nearly tripled from 2012), with the youth being the worst sufferers of the government's surgical strikes on jobs and the economy," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sacked IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt's wife, who had contested against the then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi in the 2012 Assembly elections on a Congress ticket, Wednesday approached the high court, seeking police protection. Shweta Bhatt sought the Gujarat HC's direction to the respondents (the government) to provide her and her family with "armed police protection at the cost of the state", claiming there was a threat to her life. Sanjiv Bhatt, is currently in judicial custody in a case of allegedly planting drugs to frame a person. Justice Sonia Gokani, acting on her petition, issued notices to the Gujarat director general of police and the Ahmedabad Police commissioner and posted the matter for next hearing on May 10. Security provided to Sanjiv Bhatt by the state government was withdrawn in July 2018. Two months later on September 5, 2018, he was arrested in connection with the 1996 case of allegedly planting drugs to frame a person. Sanjiv Bhatt had approached the Supreme Court after his security cover was withdrawn. The apex court, in turn, had directed him to approach the high court. After his arrest, the "threat perception" against her and her family members has increased, she said in her petition. Shweta Bhatt said her contesting the Assembly election against Modi had "enraged many". She said certain incidents after the arrest of her husband has caused her to worry about the safety and security of herself and her family members. Her car had met with an accident when a truck hit it in Ahmedabad. Unidentified persons were seen loitering around her house, and she was also followed by unknown people, she claimed in her petition. Even Gujarat Police personnel follow her in plainclothes, making it hard for her to distinguish between police and unidentified persons, she claimed. Shweta Bhatt said that a part of their house was demolished by the civic body recently and it has become vulnerable. The demolished portion was deemed illegal by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation. Sanjiv Bhatt was suspended in 2011 on charges of remaining absent from duty without permission and misuse of official vehicle. The Gujarat cadre IPS officer was eventually sacked by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in August 2015. He had crossed swords with Modi, the then chief minister, on several occasions over the 2002 post-Godhra riots. Shweta Bhatt had unsuccessfully contested against Modi from the Maninagar Assembly constituency here in 2012. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Facebook has chosen London as the centre for the global roll-out of WhatsApp pay, before the social media giant launches its digital payments service on the mobile messaging platform in India, according to a media report. WhatsApp, which has1.5 billion users globally, would hire nearly 100 people in London to focus on the digital payments service and additional operations staff would be hired in Dublin, the Financial Times reported. Facebook said it chose the UK, where WhatsApp is far more popular than the US, because it attracts a multicultural workforce from many of the countries where WhatsApp is widely used, such as India, the report said. Out of WhatsApp user base of 1.5 billion people, more than 200 million people are in India -- the single largest market for the popular messaging platform. "WhatsApp is a truly global service and these teams will help us provide WhatsApp payments and other great features for our users everywhere," Matthew Idema, WhatsApp's Chief Operating Officer, was quoted as saying. WhatsApp has nearly 400 employees globally. While its most popular markets are India, Brazil, Indonesia and Mexico, it has not established a local office anywhere until late last year, when it hired an India head in time for the country's elections. Last month, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the company is actively working on to launch WhatsApp Pay in India. "We have a test that is running in India for WhatsApp now, we're hoping to launch in several other countries at some point, but I don't want to put a timeframe on that here, but it's something that we're actively working on," he said during an earnings call with analysts. Almost one million people tested WhatsApp Pay in India to send money to each other in a simple and secure way. In April, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) came out with a circular regarding data localisation policy for payment system providers. Generally, data localisation refers to storing data within India. The company on May 3 told the Supreme Court that it would comply with the Reserve Bank of India's data localisation norms before launching the full payments service in the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Father of modern legal in India, N R Madhava Menon, passed away at a hospital here, family sources said Wednesday. He was 84. "He was undergoing treatment for the past one week for age-related ailments at a private hospital here. He left us around 11.30 PM yesterday," a source close to the family told PTI. The funeral would take place at 2.30 PM on Wednesday at Shanthi Kavadam, state owned crematorium, here. He is survived by wife and a son. President of India Ram Nath Kovind condoled his death. "Sorry to hear of the passing of Prof N R Madhava Menon, educationist, scholar and a pioneering spirit behind modern legal in India, beginning with National Law School of India University, Bangalore. "My condolences to his family and countless students," the official Twitter account of the President read. Kerala Governor P Sathasivam said he was "deeply saddened" by the demise of Menon, whose insightful ideas modernised legal in India. "As an authority in legal and constitutional matters, he used his limitless erudition to build world class institutions and to enlighten generations of students," he tweeted. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in his condolence message said Menon gave a new direction to the legal education sector in the country. "The National Law School in Banglore was established due to efforts taken by Menon. Later, the then Chief Minister of West Bengal Jyothi Basu invited him to start a similar institution in Kolkata," Vijayan said in a release, adding his achievements would make any Keralite proud. Menon started his legal career with the Kerala High Court at the age of 21 after graduating from Government Law College. He later shifted his base to Delhi and joined the faculty of Aligarh Muslim University in 1960. Menon moved to Delhi University in 1965 and headed the prestigious Campus Law Centre. He established the National Law Institute of India University (NSLIU) in Bengaluru in 1986 and was the Vice Chancellor of the university for 12 years. Menon was also the founding director of National Judicial Academy in Bhopal. The nation honoured him with the Padma Sri in 2003 for his contributions to the legal field. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court Wednesday sought response from activist lawyers Indira Jaising, Anand Grover and their NGO 'Lawyers Collective' on a plea seeking investigation and lodging of FIR under various provisions of law for allegedly violating rules relating to receipt and utilisation of foreign funds. The PIL filed by Lawyers' Voice, a voluntary organisation of advocates, alleged that the funds collected by them were misutilised for "activities against the nation". A Bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta also issued notice to the Ministry Home Affairs and asked its response on the allegations including that the money received by Lawyers Collective was used to "influence political activities". The petition mentioned orders of the Centre by which the licence of Lawyers Collective was suspended in 2016 and later permanently cancelled for alleged violation of FCRA. It alleged that Jaising remained involved with the activities of Lawyers Collective when she was Additional Solicitor General for India during the previous UPA-II regime. The PIL alleged that Jaisingh, Grover and the Lawyers Collective violated the provisions of FCRA (Foreign Contributions (Regulation) Act, Indian Penal Code, Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and Prevention of Corruption Act. It has also been alleged that she violated the Advocates Act by receiving funds from foreign entity and travelling abroad on the money received for NGO while being the law officer of the country. The petition, filed through advocate Surender Kumar Gupta, sought direction to the Centre to place on record all the materials including confidential documents which led to passing of the orders. It alleged that the Centre chose not to investigate Jaising, Grover and Lawyers Collective which was founded by the duo in 1981 even after there being "grave charges" against them. The plea submitted that Jaising and Grover under the garb of working as activists were involved in several activities to pressurize public functionaries and others and therefore it was in public interest that the true facts of such activists should come in public domain. It alleged that they also received "domestic contribution both by cheque as well as a huge amount by cash as it is known to everyone which needs to be thoroughly probed". The petition said it was clear from May 31, 2016 order that Jaising, while functioning as Additional Solicitor General for the Centre from July, 2009 to May, 2014 had received a remuneration of Rs 96.60 lakhs. It said it was impermissible for a law officer to remain on the rolls of private entity being paid foreign contribution for "undisclosed purpose". "Despite holding the position of a law officer, Jaising not only accepted 96.60 lakhs from foreign contributions but also travelled abroad from the same fund for which no approval or intimation was given or taken by Jaising from the Centre," the plea said. The petition referred an order of November 27, 2016 by the competent authority cancelled the FCRA registration of the NGO upon recording its satisfaction that it transgressed the FCRA provision and suppressed material facts to cover up its acts and omission and commission. "The foreign organisations which have funded the organisation are known for their surreptitious interference in political sovereignty of other states and to influence abrogate and overturn the same through money power and by interfering with its political functions through participating methods which are veiled," it said. It is submitted that as far as cancellation of FCRA registration certificate, an operation of FCRA domestic bank accounts, were concerned, the Bombay High Court had refused to grant any relief to Jaising, Grover and their NGO and the matter was still pending before the high court. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Tehran decided to partially suspend the execution of some of its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iran nuclear program, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said. Rouhani said Iran stops the implementation of its commitments under two items of the JCPOA. They concern the suspension of sales of enriched uranium and heavy water that Iran has to other countries for 60 days, under Sections 26 and 36 of the deal, according to Press TV. Rouhani said that Iran has sent letters to 2015 nuclear deal signatories. "The Islamic Republic of Iran does not at the current stage consider itself committed to observing restrictions regarding storing enriched uranium stocks and heavy water stocks," the Supreme National Security Council said. It was added that the remaining parties to the deal are given 60 days to implement their commitments, in particular in the fields of banking and oil. Iran will resume implementing its commitments "in the same level" as the other parties to the deal respect theirs, the council added. The head of the Iranian section of the Center for the Study of Countries at the Middle East of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the RAS, Nina Mamedova, speaking with Vestnik Kavkaza, noted that a political consensus has formed in Iran that the state is obliged to take tough steps on a nuclear deal. "The resumption of the Arak plant's activities was due to the pressure exerted on Hassan Rouhani by all domestic political forces," she said. "Iranian reformers have always stood for the complete preservation of ties with Europe and the preservation of the JCPOA. However, now they also had to talk about the need for a tough response to sanctions. So far, the President, the First Vice-President and the Foreign Minister are trying to preserve the JCPOA, but they are ready to change some of the articles. I think this is a concession to a public-political request, and the most harmless one. That is, the government continues to do everything in order to keep the system in place, Nina Mamedova emphasized. "It is possible to preserve the JCPOA if the Iranian authorities make only cosmetic changes. However, this is a big risk: for Western countries, any change to the JCPOA text can be a reason to stop all attempts to preserve it. Its up to both Russia and Europe to try to preservep this treaty, it allows Iran to remain within the framework of the international field. Russia has its own interests in preserving the JCPOA. If we only support Iran and oppose ourselves to the world community, it will not be the best solution when Tehran will start changing the items in the agreement. It is necessary to keep the delicate balance that has been created," the head of the Iranian section of the Center for the Study of Countries at the Middle East of the Institute of Oriental Studies of the RAS urged. Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily Wednesday said there was nothing wrong in TRS President and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao's efforts to forge a federal front of regional parties, and saw the move as being against the BJP-led NDA. He also claimed that the Congress would get around 200 seats in the Lok Sabha elections, emerging as the leading party among the opposition. "Make state-by-state (poll) analysis and you will definitely come to conclusion that the NDA government will fall", the former Union Minister said, adding a conglomeration of opposition parties would form the government. On some parties speculating about the possibility of a United Front-type of Government of 1996-1998 with outside support from the Congress, Moily said, "There is no such thing now. It's too early and premature to say that". "Among all members of the opposition, the Congress figure (tally of seats) would be the highest", the former Karnataka chief minister said. "Common enemy is (Narendra) Modi and NDA. That is why, they (regional parties) can't join NDA; there shall be a combination of opposition parties who will definitely form the coalition (government)," Moily said. He defended the Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's decision not to stand against Modi in Varanasi, saying it was not necessary as contesting there would have confined her to that constituency. "But now her services are available, she is going everywhere (for campaigning), that has given us more advantage", Moily told PTI. On whether the Congress would position its President Rahul Gandhi as the prime ministerial candidate, he said ultimately there should be unanimity among the opposition put together. "Congress as a largest party in Parliament, particularly more so among the opposition, we definitely have the advantage of leading the opposition front," Moily said. On Rao's push to forge a non-Congress, non-BJP federal front of regional parties, he said there was nothing wrong about that. "That means he (Rao) is also against NDA. That is more than enough for us. That means to say there are no takers for the NDA, except Shiv Sena and some fringe parties like Ram Vilas Paswan's party", Moily said. The TRS had been pitching the idea of a non-Congress, non-BJP federal front of regional parties for several months now. Asked if some of the regional parties who are not on board with UPA would be "friends" post-poll, he said, "Correct. It's always like that. There may be combination prior to elections, and combination, permutations after elections". "This has happened even in 2004. For example, UDF is fighting against LDF in Kerala. So, there cannot be prior (pre-poll) understanding between these two parties. Even then, we joined together in 2004 in forming government," he said. Moily claimed that majority of regional parties would join the opposition combination to defeat the NDA. "Opposition will join together and form government", he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A special court here Wednesday sentenced a senior Mizoram Civil Service (MCS) officer to five years rigorous imprisonment in a corruption case. Special judge Thanglian Mang Guite also imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on Lalrempuii Fanai. Fanai, when posted as the director of the State Institute of Rural Development, had purchased 150 computers in 2008. Then anti-corruption watchdog PRISM had submitted a complaint to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on June 25, 2009 against the official alleging corruption in the purchase of computers, following which investigation was launched. The prosecution said Fanai had purchased computers at the rate of Rs 25,000 each from an Aizawl-based firm but told the company to write in the bills the rate of a computer at Rs 50,000 each. The official swindled Rs 37.5 lakh in the purchase of the computers, the prosecution added. The owner of the Aizawl-based firm turned a state approver in the graft case against Fanai. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three people and a 15-month-old baby died and four others were injured when a speeding four-wheeler overturned in Rajasthan's Nagaur district, police said Wednesday. The incident occurred late Tuesday night near the Sambhar crossing of the district, they said. The driver seemed to have lost control of the vehicle which led to the accident, Nawa City police station in-charge Satish Kumar said, adding that the exact cause is yet to be ascertained. He said the passengers were going from Deedwana to Jobner after attending a wedding. They were rushed to a nearby hospital soon after the accident but Amit Pareek (35), his 15-month-old daughter Yasmin, Gopal Swami (26) and Vasu Brahmin (30) succumbed to injuries, Kumar said. He said the four injured passengers were undergoing treatment in Jaipur. The bodies were handed over to the family members of the deceased after postmortem and a case has been registered against the driver, Kumar added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In a sensational charge, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday accused the Gandhi family of using warship INS Viraat as its "personal taxi" when Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister. Addressing his first poll rally in Delhi ahead of the May 12 elections for seven seats, Modi alleged that the Congress insulted the warship by using it for vacations of Gandhi family. Modi's attack on the late prime minister comes close on the heels of his allegation that Gandhi died as a "brashtachari no 1". The then government led by Gandhi and the Navy hosted his family, including in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. "INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation," Modi said. He also claimed that after picking up the Gandhi family, INS Viraat halted at an island for 10 days. "Rajiv Gandhi was accompanied by his in-laws who had come from Italy. Question is whether the security of the country was not compromised by taking foreigners onboard a warship," he asked. Aircraft carrier INS Viraat was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1987. After nearly 30 years of service, it was decommissioned in 2016. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The government has removed Alwar SP Rajiv Pachar following the gang rape of a woman in Thanagazi area of the district. The order was issued on Tuesday night. A woman was allegedly raped by five men in front of her husband in Alwar district on April 26.The assailants also filmed the crime and uploaded the video on "The SP has been removed and put under the Awaiting Posting Order status till further orders," Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Rajeeva Swarup said. The SHO of the Thanagazi police station has already been suspended. In a related development, the state government has released an interim relief Rs 4.12 lakh for the victim as per the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The incident took place when the woman was travelling on a motorcycle with her husband. The accused stopped them on the Thanagazi-Alwar bypass and dragged the couple to an isolated area, where they allegedly raped the woman and threatened her husband with dire consequences, police said. An FIR was lodged on May 2 under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the SC/ST Act, police said. Roger Federer shook off a brief bout of pre-match jitters as he returned to clay after a three-year absence, posting a 6-2, 6-3 win over Richard Gasquet on Tuesday at the Madrid Open. The 20-time Grand Slam champion needed just 52 minutes to brush Gasquet aside in the second round, but confessed he had to control his emotions during afternoon match strategy sessions with his team. "I was very calm all day, but two hours before, I was feeling it a bit. But that was the only time," Federer said. "The nerves went away quickly, I'm just happy I started well. "I'm glad to be back," said the three-time Madrid champion who last played on clay almost three years ago, losing to Dominic Thiem in the Rome third round on May 12, 2016. Federer skipped the dirt for two full seasons to concentrate on his grass court form, winning Wimbledon in 2017. He claimed the Madrid title in 2006, 2009, and 2012. "I've been missing the clay, this is a great return, it's a special night for me," he said. Federer swept up the opening set in 23 minutes and broke Frenchman Gasquet -- who had defeated him twice on clay -- for 5-3 in the second before serving it out a game later. Federer has won 18 of 21 meetings with Gasquet, just back from six months out with injury. "I've trained well, but that's not like a match. The points here are quicker and first matches anywhere can be tricky," said Federer. "But I felt really natural on the clay tonight." - Djokovic cruises - ====================Novak Djokovic needed just 65 minutes to make a winning start, while Naomi Osaka channelled her inner "zombie mode" to earn a place in the third round. Top seed and world number one Djokovic hammered American Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-2 to advance to the last 16 following a premature exit here a year ago. "I thought my serve was very efficient today, that's a big advantage," Djokovic said. "The match was close at the beginning, in the second set I read his serve better and just managed to put an extra ball in to the court. "It was a solid opening match for me." Djokovic won the Madrid title in 2011 and 2016. He will be chasing a fourth straight Grand Slam trophy at Roland Garros next month. Marin Cilic rallied to overcome Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, while 2018 finalist Dominic Thiem advanced when Reilly Opelka quit at 6-7 (2/7), 6-3, 1-0 against the Austrian fifth seed. David Ferrer, who will retire after this event, defeated Spanish compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut 6-4, 4-6, 6-4. Ferrer, 37, will play German third seed and defending champion Alexander Zverev next. Stan Wawrinka started his Madrid campaign with a 6-2, 6-3 win over Pierre-Hugues Herbert to move into the second round. The Swiss will next play Argentine Guido Pella, who put out Barcelona finalist Daniil Medvedev 6-2, 1-6, 6-3. Tenth seed Fabio Fognini beat Kyle Edmund 6-4, 6-3 to saddle the Briton with a fourth straight loss on clay. - 'Zombie mode' - ================= In the women's draw, top seed Osaka defeated Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-0. Japan's Osaka, winner of the last two Grand Slams, said she had to conquer her inner demons to finish off a difficult match. "In the third set, I just, like, went zombie mode," she said. "I just thought of everything that I had to do to win -- not necessarily the outcome, but just like the little things in between every game. "The match was basically on my racquet, she wasn't going for winners. "The points ended by me making a winner or an unforced error. But I was a bit unfocused in the second set." Third seed and two-time champion Simona Halep of Romania ended the hopes of Johanna Konta 7-5, 6-1 in the second round. "I feel good every time when I come to Madrid and I'm happy to be back and winning matches," Halep said. "It was a good match. Both of us played very well and, in the end, I was a bit stronger mentally and I found a rhythm." Fourth seed Angelique Kerber withdrew after rolling her right ankle during training, sending Petra Martic into the third round. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Goa Deputy Chief Minister Vijai Sardesai Wednesday accused the Goa University of manipulating the reservation roster to deny deserving local OBC and Scheduled Tribe candidates the required posts in the varsity. The Goa University is in controversy after it dropped the criteria of 15 years domicile for filing 60-odd posts at different levels. The move had evoked a strong reaction from the Goa Forward Party (GFP), an alliance partner in the BJP-led government. Sardesai, who is also the GFP president, has written a letter to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, claiming the university was trying to give jobs to non-Goans. "It is also learnt that the reservation roster has been manipulated to deny deserving Goans OBC or ST candidates these posts, this needs to be investigated thoroughly. "It is alleged the manipulation have been cleverly done so that posts, for which Goan candidates are eligible, are advertised in the general category," Sardesai said. "It is also learnt that Goa university authorities are reluctant to apply the requirement of minimum period of domicile which is part of the university statue, but which they claim will be struck down by court of law," he claimed. This is another ploy to deny Goans their rightsby not implementing the domicile requirement, the Deputy Chief Minister said. "The university authorities do not have any right to bypass the varsity statute without any relaxation granted by the government," Sardesai added. The Deputy Chief Minister also said there appears to be a deliberate ploy by the Goa University to confuse and give scope for ambiguity on the issue of domicile for filling these posts (in all the categories). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two major zoos in Gujarat would get zebras, Himalayan bear and some exotic wild birds from Punjab and Maharashtra in exchange for six lions. The animals and birds would be transferred to Gujarat under an animal exchange programme with Punjab and Maharashtra, said an official release here Wednesday. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, during a Cabinet meet Wednesday, gave his approval to this exchange with zoos of Punjab and Maharashtra, said the release. As per the proposal approved by the CM, the Sakkarbaug zoo in Junagadh would give two lions and as many lionesses to Mumbai's Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan & Zoo under the animal exchange programme. In return, the Sakkarbaug zoo would get two male and as many female zebras, four cockatiel-grey birds, two cockatiel-white birds, eight night herons and one female horn-bill from the Mumbai zoo. On the same lines, the Rajkot zoo would send a lion and a lioness to the M C Zoological Park in Chhatbir, Punjab, the release said. In exchange, the Rajkot zoo would get one Himalayan bear, one pair of jungle cat, one pair of baboon, three pairs of rose ringed parakeet, two pairs of comb duck, two pairs each of Alexandrian Parakeet and zebra finch bird, it said. On Tuesday, Sakkarbaug zoo authorities had announced that eight lions - two male and six female - will soon be shifted to a zoo in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, as part of an animal exchange programme. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The arrival this week of their first child -- a boy shown off to the public on Wednesday -- crowns the whirlwind love story of Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, coming less than three years since they first met. It was love at first sight for both parties, who quickly sensed their brief blind date could blossom. They were set up by a mutual friend when US actress Meghan Markle was passing through London in July 2016. The couple knew little about each other and the speed of the relationship surprised them both. "The fact that I fell in love with Meghan so incredibly quickly was a confirmation to me that all the stars were aligned. Everything was just perfect," Harry said. Within two years, they tied the knot at Windsor Castle, sealing a relationship that rapidly grew out of the media spotlight -- and survived when it went public in explosive fashion. When the couple first met, she was 34 and a divorcee of three years; he 31 with a few foundered relationships and his 10-year army career recently behind him. Harry had never heard of Meghan or watched "Suits", the US television legal drama series she had starred in since 2011. "I was beautifully surprised when I walked into that room and saw her," he recalled, and thought to himself: "I'm going to really have to up my game here!" - Bonding over their passion for the good causes they represented, they immediately set up a second date -- for the following day. A few weeks later, the prince persuaded her to join him camping out for five days in Botswana, which Harry called a "huge leap" -- but one that paid off. "We were really by ourselves, which was crucial to me to make sure that we had a chance to get to know each other," he said. As Markle continued filming "Suits" in Toronto, the pair never went longer than two weeks apart. Their romance was under cover for the first five or six months, and largely conducted through nights in behind closed doors. "We were able to really have so much time just to connect," said Meghan. Harry said they had frank conversations about what her future could entail and called it a "huge relief" to have finally found someone comfortable with the pressure and lifelong job he comes attached with. Harry publicly confirmed they were dating in November 2016 with an angry, highly unusual statement blasting racist "abuse and harassment" directed towards her. "It is not right that a few months into a relationship with him that Ms Markle should be subjected to such a storm," his communications secretary Jason Knauf said. "This is not a game -- it is her life and his." Harry proposed in November 2017. The couple were having a cosy night in at Nottingham Cottage, their previous two-bedroom home in the grounds of London's Kensington Palace, roasting a chicken. Meghan said "Yes" before Harry had finished proposing or even produced the ring. They announced their engagement on November 27, 2017 and she was swiftly integrated into the royal fold, spending Christmas with the family and attending public engagements. The wedding on May 19 last year was filled with personal touches, mixing British pomp and African-American culture in front of a celebrity congregation and cheering crowds. Meghan began her walk down the aisle alone after falling out with her father, while firebrand US pastor Michael Curry delivered a full-throttle address invoking slaves and the power of love. Since then, the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex have thrown themselves into causes they champion, notably mental health, young people and women's empowerment. "Both of us have passions for wanting to make change for good," said the prince. The Queen made Harry the Commonwealth's youth ambassador, a role that will increasingly drive the couple's agenda. The baby was announced in October as they began their first overseas tour, visiting Australia, Fiji, Tonga and New Zealand around the Invictus Games in Sydney, Harry's Olympics-style event for wounded military veterans. They have now moved out from Nottingham Cottage to the much bigger Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor estate as they start their family. Some royal commentators have voiced concern at the couple's reportedly increasing distance from his brother William and sister-in-law Kate. Some have said Californian Meghan's influence is softening straight-talking former army hardman Harry. But others say it is a sign of a strong-minded couple ready to go their own way, with a new family, new home and new sense of mission. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday disapproved of Haryana's "conduct" of asking the Delhi government to withdraw its pleas for protecting water supply from the state as a pre-condition for considering release of water to the city. The Delhi government claimed that in the Upper Yamuna River Board meeting of April 18 Haryana had asked it to first withdraw all cases on the water issue from the courts here and then it will consider release of water to Delhi. Taking note of the averment, a bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice A J Bhambhani, said: "Your (Haryana) conduct is reflected in the minutes of meeting. Why did you ask for withdrawal of the plea?" The bench made it clear there should be no disruption or reduction in the amount of water being supplied to the national capital in accordance with an undertaking given by Haryana before the court in December 2014. Haryana has to release 719 cusecs of water per day into Munak canal here and 330 cusecs per day in Delhi Sub Branch Canal, according to the undertaking and earlier court orders. The high court also said that water being supplied to the Wazirabad treatment plant, which caters to most of central Delhi including Lutyen's zone, should continue in the same quantities as was being done in the past. The bench also appointed a committee, headed by retired high court judge Justice Indermeet Kaur and including amicus curiae Rakesh Khanna, to inspect whether 'bunds' have been put in the canals carrying water meant for the Wazirabad plant as claimed by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) in its plea. The court asked the committee to submit its report before the next date of hearing on May 20 and added that further action will be taken based on the panel's findings. The order came on DJB's application which claimed that it wanted to withdraw all its earlier pleas for protecting water supply to the national capital as Haryana has made it a pre-condition for considering release of water to Delhi. DJB, represented by senior advocate Parag Tripathi, said the national capital faces extreme shortage of water during the summer months of May-June and if Haryana does not release water, to the tune of around 1133 cusecs, then citizens of Delhi will have a tough time. He also showed the court pictures of 'bunds' being put in the DD-8 canal which carries water meant for the Wazirabad plant. Haryana, in its defence, said that there is already a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court with regard to 'bunds' being put on the canal. It also said that the 'bunds' were 200 kilometers away from the Delhi-Haryana border. The bench, however, did not accept the contention and said the committee will inspect "whether the 'bunds' are 200 km or 20 metres away from the border" and would they "impact the supply of water to the national capital". The DJB application was filed in a PIL by lawyer S B Tripathi seeking sufficient water supply for Delhi. It had earlier urged the court to ask the Centre to supervise water supply from Haryana to the national capital. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) EU Heads of State or Government will discuss Iran's decision to partially suspend the execution of some of its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iran nuclear program at the informal meeting in Sibiu, Romania, on May 9, according to a diplomatic source. According to a European diplomatic source, this issue will be also discussed by EU foreign ministers in Brussels on May 13. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said today that Tehran stops the implementation of its commitments under two items of the JCPOA for 60 day. Iran said it will resume implementing its commitments "in the same level" as the other parties to the deal respect theirs. The Uttarakhand High Court Wednesday dismissed a PIL challenging the tender process for Badrinath-Kedarnath helicopter services. This paves the way for the tendering process for the operation of helicopter services from all 24 helipads in the Mandakini valley to begin. The government pleaded that the new helipads were necessary as the construction of all weather roads had damaged many existing ones. Earlier on March 28, the high court had put a stay on the tender process while hearing the PIL filed by Dehradun-based organisation. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Bombay High Court Wednesday said it cannot grant bail to former media baron Peter Mukerjea, an accused in the killing of his step-daughter Sheena Bora, but directed jail authorities to take him for his post-operation cardiac rehabilitation sessions. A vacation bench of Justice Riyaz Chagla said it was not inclined to order the release of Mukerjea at the Asian Heart Institute, where he underwent a bypass surgery, submitted in a report to a special CBI court last month that he has recovered from the operation. "I am, however, inclined to grant limited protection to the applicant (Mukerjea). It will be appropriate to permit the applicant to undergo post-operation cardiac rehabilitation sessions and physiotherapy at the Asian Heart Institute," Justice Chagla said in the order. "The applicant shall be taken to the hospital under police escort for 26 sessions, as prescribed by the Asian Heart Institute," the court said. Mukerjea last week approached the high court, seeking interim bail on medical ground. His lawyer Shrikant Shivade argued that Mukerjea was sent to jail without letting him undergo the post-operative care. "Without the post-operation cardiac rehabilitation sessions and physiotherapy, he (Mukerjea) will die. Jail is not a proper place to be kept in after undergoing bypass surgery," he argued on Wednesday. CBI counsel Ejaz Khan opposed the plea and relied on the Asian Heart Institute's report, which said Mukerjea was being discharged from the hospital as he had recovered from the surgery. "The jail authorities shall take him (Mukerjea) to the hospital for the post-operation cardiac sessions. He need not be released on bail for this purpose," Khan argued. Mukerjea has been in jail since his arrest in November 2015 for his alleged involvement in the killing of Sheena Bora, his wife Indrani Mukerjea's daughter from her previous relation. According to the Central Bureau of Investigation, Bora was killed in April 2012 but the case came to light only in August 2015 when Indrani Mukerjea's former driver Shyamwar Rai spilled the beans after being arrested in another case. Indrani Mukerjea's former husband Sanjeev Khanna and Rai were also arrested in connection with the Sheena Bora killing case. However, Rai later turned an approver in the case. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Madras High Court Wednesday issued notice to the Election Commission on a plea which sought a probe into deletion of names of about 45,000 voters under Kanyakumari Lok Sabha constituency where polling was held on April 18. A vacation bench of Justice S Vaidyanathan and Justice Subramonium Prasad issued the notice seeking a status report on the issue, returnable by June 12. The PIL was filed by A Rajkumar, the district coordinator of a fishermen association at Agastheeswaram Mayiladi in the district. Counsel for the petitioner argued that people, whose names were found deleted this time, had voted in the 2016 assembly elections. The deletion of 45,000 names was violative of the fundamental rights, the counsel said and sought a direction from the court to constitute a committee to probe the matter. "Authorities have not followed due process of law before deleting the names," the petitioner said and sought to restrain them from counting votes on May 23. He also sought repoll in booths where voters' names were deleted in large numbers. In the Kanyakumari Lok Sabha constituency, Union minister and BJP candidate Pon Radhakrishnan was pitted against Congress' H Vasanthakumar. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In 2008, Kashyap Rawat was rendered completely paralytic due extensive injuries suffered during a terrorist attack in Connaught Place in Delhi. Only 25 years of age then, he remained on ventilator for nearly four weeks. Rawat took two and a half years to fully recover and stand on his feet again. "His injuries were extensive," Rajendra Prasad, a senior consultant and spine surgeon at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said. Rawat was brought to the hospital with cervical spinal injury with complete paralysis from neck down, tracheal and oesophageal injury. His lung had collapsed and there were fractures in left radius and ulna (bones in the forearm) and left fibula (leg bone), Prasad said. "We did multiple surgeries to remove metal fragments from his body. He also required tracheostomy, an incision made in the windpipe to facilitate air passage for breathing," he added. Rawat remained in the ICU for one month and spent another in the ward. Now a resident of Vadodara in Gujarat, he thanks the doctors for the new life. "Slowly with the help of physiotherapy and yoga, I have recovered from paralysis. Though I have regained much of my strength on my left side, the right side of my body is still not fully recovered," he said. "I feel stiffness in my muscles because of which I cannot sit for more than an hour. I have to constantly move my legs. But thanks to the support from the doctors, I have come a long way from complete paralysis." Rawat is now independent, employed and ambulates with support, Prasad said, highlighting how timely and safe transfer to a tertiary care centre is essential. For critical spinal surgeries, timely intervention can mean the difference between full recovery and disability, doctors say. Discussing the importance of rehabilitation, Prasad said post spinal operations, neuro-rehabilitation is necessary to help patients regain lost neurological functions and allow them to walk, rather than become permanently confined to a wheel chair. He shared the case of Priyanka, who at 21, had suffered a fall which led to severe pain in her back followed by retention of urine and weakness in lower limbs. "MRI revealed that she had lumbar fracture of L1 and spinal cord compression by the fractured bone. She had to undergo two surgeries to decompress and stabilize the spine," Prasad said. Tarun Sahni, senior consultant, internal medicine, at the Apollo hospital, said Priyanka took three months of rehabilitation to recover. She is now fully mobile. "The key in this case was the quick action by her family who safely took her to the hospital without any delay. She had paralysis of legs and lost her bladder function. Today, she is well and looking forward to her wedding shortly." Prasad explained why it is important to manage spinal injuries at the site of accident. He said it is very important for trauma victims to get immediate attention to ABC (airway, breathing, circulation) at the site of injury by trained first-responders. After that, he said, the patient should be transported safely to a hospital, on a spine board, without making the injury worse, within the "Golden Hour". Serious multi-trauma patients should be transported directly to a tertiary hospital where head, spine, chest, limbs and abdominal injuries can all be dealt with. "Many lives can be saved and long-term disability reduced by proper care. It is important that patients get neuro-rehabilitation after acute medical care for better chances of recovering mobility," Prasad added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) : LATAM Airlines, one of the world's largest airlines groups, has chosen the Kerala headquartered IBS Software (IBS) as its technology solution provider for unifying its entire fleet and crew operations worldwide on a digital platform. The multi-million-dollar contract, one of the largest airline IT transformation projects in Latin America, was concluded after an intense selection process spanning several months, a press release here said. Headquartered in Santiago (Chile), LATAM Airlines Group has one of the largest route networks in the world, operating more than 1,300 flights per day and offering services to more than 140 destinations in 26 countries. Under the contract, IBS' comprehensive iFlight NEO system will replace the existing, disparate legacy systems and provide a single, integrated digital platform for LATAM Group airlines across its global network for end-to-end flight operations, crew management and disruption management, worldwide, the release said. The browser-based application will unify and streamline the operations across LATAM's affiliate airlines with several tools and features designed to help airlines optimise resources, employ emerging technologies and boost decision making processes. The solution will also help the airline group simplify and centralise processes, enhance efficiencies, lower operational costs, respond quickly to potential disruptions and minimise the impact on passengers. "With a fleet of over 310 aircraft operating around 1,300 flights each day across five continents, we have a complex and dynamic operation. As part of our commitment to offering our customers industry-leading service, we continue to harness the latest technology and digital tools to optimize efficiency and ensure our passengers arrive to where they want to be, on-time," said Hernn Pasman, Chief Operations Officer, LATAM Airlines Group. "To be chosen by one of the largest airline groups in the Americas is testimony not only to the increasing acceptance of iFlight NEO as a cutting edge platform for airline operations, but also to the confidence in our capability to deliver successfully within time and budget. This is a large and complex digital transformation exercise and we are confident of adding substantial business value to LATAM," said Jitendra Sindhwani, President & Head - Global Sales and Marketing, IBS Software. This is the third major engagement of IBS with global airlines in the past thirty days. In late April, it signed a landmark contract with Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, to transform operational efficiency and improve guest satisfaction. During the same period, Korean Air (KE), one of the top five cargo carriers in the world, migrated to IBS' iCargo to power its cargo movement worldwide. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior officials of India and China will meet here Thursday to discuss trade-related issues, particularly matters concerning the agriculture sector, an official said. The Chinese side will be headed by Li Guo, Vice Minister of the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). From the Indian side, officials from different departments including commerce, agriculture, animal husbandry and the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) would participate in the meeting, the official added. The meeting assumes significance as India is seeking greater market access for its manufactured and agricultural products in the Chinese market to bridge the widening trade deficit. Recently, India has identified and shared with China a list of 380 products, including horticulture, textiles, chemicals and pharmaceuticals products, as their shipments hold huge export potential. Increasing exports of these products will help India narrow the widening trade deficit with China, which stood at USD 50.12 billion during April-February 2018-19. Indian exporters face certain non-tariff barriers in the Chinese market that are restricting exports. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) India and Turkey on Wednesday resolved to step up their economic ties with an aim to reach USD 10 billion bilateral trade by 2020. Turkey's Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal, who is on a three-day India visit from Tuesday, held a meeting with Gitesh A Sarma, Secretary (West), under the institutional mechanism of Foreign Office Consultations. Onal's visit is part of the regular exchange between the two countries. The deputy foreign minister had earlier visited India as part of the delegation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May 2017. Onal and Sarma held cordial discussions on various aspects of bilateral ties, including examining opportunities for enhancing trade and investment relations, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. Currently, the bilateral trade stands at around USD 8.6 billion with a target to reach USD 10 billion by 2020. Other aspects such as enhanced cultural interaction, tourism, people-to-people contacts were also discussed, the MEA said. The two sides reviewed current situation in their respective regions and also exchanged views on several multilateral issues, it said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Recent terror incidents in India, New Zealand and Sri Lanka have thrown a challenge in the area of Customs administration in Asia-Pacific region, India said today and urged the nations to work in tandem to combat the menace. Addressing the 20th Conference of the Regional Heads of Customs Administration, Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) Pranab Kumar Das stressed on timely cooperation to tackle the threats posed by terrorism. "The Customs Administration needs to work in tandem with other national and international security agencies to address terrorism," Das, who is also regional vice chair of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Asia/Pacific, said. Spelling out the focus areas while presenting regional perspective of the WCO, he said the terror incidents in Afghanistan, India, New Zealand and more recently in Sri Lanka "have thrown a challenge and highlighted a pressing need for a greater co-operation and timely cooperation and considered efforts" for meeting such threats. Concurring with India's views, WCO Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya said the Asia/Pacific region has suffered due to terrorist attacks including that had happened in New Zealand and Sri Lanka recently. He said terrorism and illicit trade are very important issues that have to be tackled India informed the four-day long conference which began here on Tuesday that Indian customs has undertaken major reforms in the last few years to facilitate cross border trade and expedite movement, release and clearance of goods. These measures have had a salutary effect on the overall transaction cost and time associated with import of goods into and export of goods out of the country. Due to this India has recorded a jump of 23 positions against its rank of 100 in 2017 to be placed at 77th spot among 190 countries assessed by the World Bank in its latest Doing Business Report (DBR, 2019). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An Indian national and a Nepalese man have been arrested for allegedly smuggling black pepper to India from southern Nepal's Birgunj city, police said Wednesday. Dipendra Manda, 28, a resident of Raxaul, India and Binod Prasad Patel, 36, a resident of Birgunj Municipality werre arrested from Birgunj near Nepal-India border for allegedly being involved in black pepper smuggling racket. Police have seized eight sacks of black pepper from them as they were being transported on a motorbike. They were arrested during a security check conducted by a special team of police in the Nepal-India border point after receiving information that a large consignment of black pepper is being trafficked to India from Birgunj. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An Indian-origin banker is among three conmen jailed for defrauding elderly bank customers of more than 390,000 pounds and laundering the cash through multiple fake bank accounts in the UK. Taminder Virdi, 33, was found guilty of fraud following a six-week trial at Blackfriars Crown Court in London and was sentenced last week to three years and six months behind bars. His co-worker, Abubakar Salim, 36, was jailed for four years. The duo, who both worked at the same TSB branch in Stoke Newington in 2014, transferred funds out of customer accounts into 65 fraudulent beneficiary accounts they had opened. These accounts were controlled by accountant Babar Hussain, 40, who had pleaded guilty to all the offences before the start of trial and was jailed last Friday for five years and four months. Hussain is a professional money launderer who used his accountancy knowledge to steal hundreds of thousands of pounds from elderly banking customers, said Mike Hulett, Head of Operations at the National Crime Agency's National Cyber Crime Unit, which led the investigations. He was aided by two corrupt bank workers who abused their positions of trust, using false documents to set up bank accounts to launder the hard-earned savings of their unsuspecting victims, he said. Officers from the UK's NCA were alerted to their activity when one of the eight victims, all of whom were in their 70s, reported that 56,000 pounds had been transferred out of their bank account without consent. That money was then deposited into seven beneficiary accounts opened in different names. Hulett said: As soon as the first victim reported the theft we used our specialist cyber capabilities to follow the money and established the real world identities of these criminals. We are committed to working with partners to target professional enablers involved in cyber crime. Hussain was arrested in July 2016 and officers recovered a number of fraudulently obtained genuine driving licenses, which Virdi and Salim used along with fake gas and electric bills to open up the beneficiary accounts. When he was interviewed, Hussain claimed that part of his work in the community involved opening and managing bank accounts for those just arriving in the UK with no fixed address. Messages stored on Hussain's mobile phone identified other victims of fraud, where Virdi and Salim abused their position within the bank to access their accounts and transfer money into beneficiary accounts. Virdi was arrested in November 2016 and Salim in May 2017. At the time of Virdi's arrest, he had left TSB having resigned following an internal investigation into his fraudulent activities and was working for Santander bank. NCA investigations found that Virdi continued offending whist employed at Santander. He was immediately suspended following his arrest and Santander went on to support the NCA's investigation. Salim was also subject to an internal investigation at TSB and dismissed. Following the internal investigations, TSB formally reported the incidents to the police. All three accused were charged with fraud by abuse of position and money laundering, with the case concluding in their sentencing this week. All the customers who lost money at the hands of the fraudsters have been fully reimbursed by the banks. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Irans decision to suspend some of its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian nuclear deal is caused by rash steps taken by Washington, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. The spokesman recalled that Russian President Vladimir Putin has "repeatedly talked about the consequences of rash steps in relation to Iran", which was the "decision taken by Washington". "We see that these consequences are starting to ensue," he stressed. "The situation is serious, it is clearly provoked by previous decisions [of Washington]," Peskov continued. "Putin had said that ill-conceived subjective decisions lead to unjustified pressure on Iran and provoke further undesirable steps, which we are witnessing now." Peskov reminded that Putin has repeatedly reaffirmed Moscows commitments to the JCPOA, highlighting the importance and indispensability of this deal. The Kremlin spokesman added that Moscow would maintain contacts with its JCPOA partners in order to save the deal. "It goes without saying that Russian diplomats will continue to discuss this theme [the JCPOA] with their partners, including European partners, in order to maintain the agreements viability," TASS cited him as saying. Peskov added that it is too early to talk about potential sanctions against Iran due to the decision taken by Tehran. "Right now, we just need to assess the situation properly and exchange the positions on this matter," he said. "We need to analyze this situation and to establish contacts on the line of foreign ministries," Peskov stated. A self-proclaimed spiritual leader from India has been arrested and remanded in custody in Australia for allegedly assaulting two women who invited him to their homes for prayers in Sydney. Anand Giri, 38, was arrested from the western suburb of Oxley Park in Sydney early on Sunday and was subsequently charged with two counts of committing an act of indecency on two women on separate occasions, the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) website reported. He was due to fly overseas on Monday after completing a six-week spiritual teaching tour. According to the New South Wales police, the man attended a house in Rooty Hill to participate in Hindu prayers on New Year's Day in 2016 where he met a 29-year-old woman and allegedly assaulted her in a bedroom. "While in the bedroom of the home, the man has allegedly indecently assaulted the woman," police said in a statement. It was also alleged that the accused man also attended a home in Rooty Hill in 2018 where he met a 34-year-old woman in the lounge room of the home for prayers and indecently assaulted her. Police said that officers from Mt Druitt Police Area Command were notified and commenced investigations. After being denied bail over concerns that "more women victims could be at risk if released", he was remanded in custody. He will appear at Mt Druitt Local Court on June 26. Both the complainants were known to the 'yogi', police said. Giri hails from Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh. According to his website, the primary objective of his life is to "provide life solutions to people and to be a change agent in the society". He organises several spiritual teaching lessons and yoga classes throughout the year in India and abroad. He is a graduate and is currently pursuing his doctorate in Yoga Tantra, according to his website. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The sea phase of the Indo-French naval exercise 'Varuna' began on Wednesday with ships from the European country sailing out of the Goa harbour to participate in it, the Indian Navy said. This year's edition of the Indo-French naval exercise currently underway off the Goa coast is the largest ever undertaken by the two navies and represents the climax of the strengthened maritime co-operation between India and France, a senior official earlier said. In a released here on Wednesday, the Navy said after a fruitful harbour phase at Mormugao Port Trust in Goa, the visiting French naval ships sailed out of the coastal state to begin the sea phase of 'Varuna 2019'. The exercise, which began on May 1, will culminate on May 10 after sea phase operations involving ships and men-in- uniform of both the navies. French Aircraft carrierCharles de Gaulle, FN ships Provence, LaTouche Treville, Forbin and tanker Marne along with an FN submarine will take part in the exercise with the Indian Navy, the release said. "Indian naval ships Chennai, Mumbai, Tarkash, tanker INS Deepak and a submarine took to sea where the two navies will conduct extensive evolutions to further inter-operability and professional skills towards better maritime cooperation," the release said. "Air-to-air combat, air defence, anti-submarine exercises and surface shoots were some of the activities conducted on Wednesday," it added. The first bilateral naval exercise between India and France was held in 1983 and it was named 'Varuna' in 2001. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An American official, seriously injured during the Easter Sunday suicide bombings in Sri Lanka succumbed to her injuries, the US embassy said Wednesday as Washington reaffirmed its commitment to fight terrorism around the world. Chelsea Decaminada, an International Programme Specialist with the Department of Commerce, was staying at the Shangri-La in Colombo on April 21 when two Islamist bombers attacked the luxury hotel. Confirming her death, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina Teplitz said Decaminada succumbed after a valiant fight to injuries from the attacks. "We mourn the loss of Chelsea Decaminada, who succumbed after a valiant fight to injuries from the attacks. Our prayers are with her family. We pay tribute to Chelsea & all those lost & injured by partnering w Sri Lanka & nations worldwide to bring unity in the face of terrorism," Teplitz said in a tweet. It was reported that she was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment. In Washington, US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross in a statement confirmed Decaminada's death as a result of injuries sustained during the April 21st terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka, where she was on assignment. "It was our great hope that Chelsea (Decaminada) would recover from her injuries. My prayers are with Chelsea's family during this difficult time," Ross, who was in India on Tuesday, said. He described her as a talented International Programme Specialist in the Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) of the Office of the General Counsel. "Chelsea devoted her life to public service, and her dedication and spirit were a model for all of us at Commerce. She served her country with distinction. "As we mourn her loss, we must continue to fight terrorism around the world," Ross said. The massive suicide bombings, claimed by the Islamic State group and attributed to the National Thawheed Jammath, a little-known local radical outfit. Nine bombers, including a woman, targeted three luxury hotels and three Catholic churches in the worst terror attack in Sri Lanka. With Decaminada's death, the number of killed in the Easter Sunday attack rose to at least 258. The total number of foreigners killed is now 45 foreigners, including 10 Indians. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Iran threatened Wednesday to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal, raising regional tensions as a US aircraft carrier and bombers headed to the Middle East to confront Tehran. A televised address by President Hassan Rouhani, who once pledged that the landmark deal would draw Iran closer to the West, saw the cleric instead pressure Europe to shield Tehran from the sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump withdrawing the US from the agreement exactly a year earlier. Rouhani's threats put the world on notice that it cannot continue to rely on Iran complying with terms of the unraveling deal in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, a US campaign of sanctions hammering Iran's anemic economy and blocking its sale of oil on the global market is only making life worse, putting further pressure on both its Shiite theocracy and its 80 million people. Rouhani himself compared the situation to a medical emergency for the Islamic Republic, only 40 years after its founding. "We felt that the nuclear deal needs a surgery, and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective," Rouhani said. "This surgery is for saving the deal, not destroying it." Iran on Wednesday stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step, Rouhani said, something required under the deal. The US last week ended deals allowing Iran to exchange its enriched uranium for unrefined yellowcake uranium with Russia, and to sell its heavy water, which is used as a coolant in nuclear reactors, to Oman. In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran will increase its enrichment of uranium beyond the accord-permitted 3.67 per cent which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Rouhani did not say how far Iran would be willing to enrich, although the head of its nuclear program again reiterated Iran could reach 20 per cent enrichment within four days. Once a country enriches uranium to around 20 per cent, scientists say the time needed to reach the 90 per cent threshold for weapons-grade uranium is halved. Iran long has maintained its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, Iranian state television's English-language service Press TV, citing sources close to presidency, said the country would withdraw from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty if Europeans sought to sanction Iran at the UN Security Council. Rouhani also said that if the 60 days pass without action, Iran will halt a Chinese-led effort to redesign its Arak heavy water nuclear reactor. Such reactors produce plutonium that can be used in nuclear weapons. Iran notified Britain, Russia, China, the European Union, France and Germany of its decision earlier in the day. All were signatories to the nuclear deal and continue to support it. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif met Wednesday in Moscow with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and offered a letter as well. "If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal," Rouhani said. Zarif separately issued his own warning from Moscow. "After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that (the) US has made impossible to continue," he tweeted. World powers have "a narrowing window to reverse this." Reaction came swiftly from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a staunch critic of Iran and the nuclear deal. "I heard that Iran intends to continue its nuclear program. We will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said. "We will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives, and we will thrust our roots even deeper into the soil of our homeland." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in London, said America "will wait and observe" what Iran does next. "They have made have made a number of statements about actions they have threatened to do in order to get the world to jump," Pompeo said. Rouhani also made an implicit threat as well to Europe, saying Iran now cooperates on issues like targeting Afghan opium and hashish traffickers and controlling immigration. "You are obliged ... for your own security, for protecting your youths against drugs as well as controlling influx of immigrants," the president said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) BJP president Amit Shah Wednesday claimed that this Lok Sabha election is a fight between '3 Gs' of the Congress represented by the Gandhi family and those of the saffron party exemplified by gaon, goumata and the Ganga. Claiming that there is a wave in favour of the prime minister across the country, Shah also sought to compare between a 'workaholic' Narendra Modi and a 'vacation loving' Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. He also alleged that the opposition parties are not interested in the security of the country for the sake of votebank Both the Congress and the BJP have three Gs, he said. "For the Congress, 3G stands for Sonia (Gandhi), Rahul (Gandhi) and Priyanka (Gandhi). The BJP's 3G are gaon (villages), goumata (cow) and the Ganga," Shah said and asked the people to choose the correct 3G. He said he has visited for poll campaigns almost all the states where people have different tastes and culture, but "what is common everywhere is the chant in favour of Modi". "On the one hand, you have Modi who did not take a single leave in 20 years. On the other, you have Rahul Gandhi who goes on long vacations to places, leaving his mother worried about his whereabouts," he said in rallies in Dhanbad and Jamshedpur. Shah claimed that Gandhi goes on vacations as soon as the temperature starts soaring during summer. "This (opposition) alliance had kept the country's security at stake for their vote bank. For us vote bank is not important. Elections will come and go, but security of the country is the top most priority for us," he said. Bullets of terrorists will be responded with bombs, Shah saidBJP. "What the Modi-led government did for the welfare of the poor in five years, the Congress could not achieve it in 55 years," he claimed. Describinbg infiltrators as termites, the BJP leader said while the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) will drive out intruders, the Congress seeks to raise the issue of human rights. The BJP president said, "I would like to ask them when innocent jawans were killed and their families suffered, where was their concern?" "From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Kolkata to Kuch, we will identify infiltrators and throw them out of country, the BJP president leader said. At the time of terror strikes and beheading of Indian soldiers during the 10-year rule of the Congress-led UPA, the then prime minister Manmohan Singh did not say anything, he alleged. "But after the massacre of 40 of our jawans at Pulwama by Pakistani terrorists, our Air Force struck terror camps in Balakot at a time when Pakistan amassed soldiers and tanks on the border," he said. Criticizing Gandhi and JMM working president Hemant Soren for their support to Omar Abdullah, Shah said the National Conference leader had spoken about a separate prime minister for Kashmir. "Should there be two prime ministers in one country?" Shah asked and the crowd roared back: "No". "Article 370 will be scrapped. Modi will definitely come to power again. but in case the BJP is not in power, every BJP worker will see to it that Kashmir remains an integral part of the country," Shah said. The Congress promised abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution in its poll manifesto. The Article grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state. Talking about the NDA dispensation's development initiatives in Jharkhand, the BJP boss said it opened medical colleges in Hazaribag and Dumka, set up a cancer hospital in Ranchi and launched a 4000MW power plant at Patratu. "In the 13th Finance Commission, the UPA government had allotted Rs 55,253 crore for Jharkhand. The Modi government has given over 3 lakh crore to the state in five years," he added. Shah said that Modi opened Sindri Fertilizer Factory in Sindri, converted India School of Mines to an IIT and gave Binod Bihari Mahto Koyalanchal University in Dhanbad. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sarpanches from parts of Jammu and Kashmir Wednesday demanded a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the killing of BJP's Anantnag vice-president Gul Mohammed Mir. Led by their president Anil Sharma during a protest at the exhibition ground here, members of the All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC) demanded that a case be registered against the officer who ordered the withdrawal of security to the slain BJP leader. Mir was shot dead by terrorists inside his house in Anantnag district on May 4. "We strongly condemn the killing of an elected panchayat member who was working for the welfare of his people at the grassroots level. The government should identify the officer who ordered the withdrawal of his security and register an FIR against him as it was not killing but a murder by the faulty system," Sharma told reporters. Criticising the state administration for putting the lives of elected panchayat members at "risk" by withdrawing their security cover, he said it was the need of the hour to hold a high-level NIA inquiry into killings of panchayat members to expose the conspiracy. "From 2011 to 2016, at least 18 panchayat members were killed while the fresh incident has again created fear among panchayat members who contested the elections last year to strengthen the grassroots-level democracy in the state. The NIA should be entrusted with the task of conducting a detailed inquiry into killings of panchayat members," he said. Questioning the Centre and the state government for their arbitrary surrender and rehabilitation policy for militants, Sharma said the government had kept the provision of financial assistance to militants in case they surrendered before the government but "unfortunately there was no policy for the panchayat members who risked their lives and held the Tricolour to strengthen democracy in the state". Sharma demanded the framing of a concrete policy for sarpanches and panches and a provision to provide a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the family of any panchayat member getting killed and a job to the next of kin. "Such measures will restore the faith of panchayat members, who are working under a challenging situation," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Realty firm Jaypee Infratech's Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) has opined that state-owned NBCC's revised bid was conditional and non-binding, which ran contrary to terms of the insolvency proceedings, sources said. The Committee of Creditors (CoC) is scheduled to meet on Thursday (May 9) to discuss NBCC's revised offer to acquire debt-laden Jaypee Infratech. The public sector unit has proposed infusion of Rs 200 crore equity capital, transfer of 950 acres of land worth Rs 5,000 crore to banks and completing construction of flats by July 2023 to settle an outstanding claim of Rs 23,723 crore of financial creditors. Sources said NBCC has put several conditions for the implementation of its plan, including a demand to extinguish an estimated income-tax liability of Rs 33,000 crore over a period of 30 years arising out of the transfer of land parcels from Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) to Jaypee Group. The IRP Anuj Jain has written to the CoC that NBCC's revised bid is conditional as the state-owned firm has stated that the plan will not be binding on it unless key reliefs such as extinguishing of income tax liability and a dispensation from seeking consent of YEIDA for any business transfer is granted, sources said. The IRP pointed out that the insolvency process approved by the CoC in December last year provided that the resolution plans from potential bidders should be binding and non-conditional, they added. The court-mandated deadline for completing the resolution plan for Japyee Infratech ended on May 6 and the CoC has sought an extension of the deadline. The Allahabad bench of the NCLT has posted the matter for hearing on May 21. The CoC had on May 3 rejected a bid of Mumbai-based Suraksha Realty group, which was the lone contender after NBCC's revised offer was rejected in absence of approvals from the government departments. NBCC has now got the approval from the relevant government authorities for its revised offer, which was submitted to the IRP on April 24. In its revised offer, NBCC has put several conditions for carrying out its commitment. Jaypee Infratech, which is a subsidiary of Jaypee Group's flagship firm Jaiprakash Associates Ltd (JAL), owes nearly Rs 9,800 crore to financial creditors. Also, Rs 13,839 crore has been admitted as financial debt of the homebuyers. Sources said NBCC, in the revised resolution plan, has offered to transfer 100 per cent equity in the Expressway SPV (special purpose vehicle) -- to be created by transferring Delhi-Agra Expressway assets of Jaypee Infratech -- to the banks. It has proposed that the banks should raise a minimum of Rs 2,000 crore against the Expressway SPV (by securitising its toll income) and provide Rs 1,500 crore from this amount to the state-owned company, which could utilise it for making upfront payments and to start construction on the stuck projects, sources said. The plan further provides for settling Rs 9,712 crore of claims of operational creditors, including Rs 3,334 crore by the income tax department, Rs 1,689 crore towards compensation to landowners and Rs 4,423 crore to YEIDA, by paying Rs 20 crore. Sources said NBCC has proposed Rs 62.40 crore upfront payment to buyers who had sought a refund. During the first round of insolvency proceedings, the Rs 7,350 crore bid of Lakshdeep, part of Suraksha group was rejected by lenders as it was found to be substantially lower than the company's net worth and assets as well as the liquidation value of about Rs 14,000 crore. Jaypee Group Chairman Manoj Gaur had promised to infuse Rs 2,000 crore to complete pending 20,000 apartments over the next four years. The crisis-hit group had submitted a Rs 10,000-crore plan before lenders in April 2018 as well, but the same was not accepted. JAL had submitted Rs 750 crore in the registry of the Supreme Court for the refund to buyers and the amount is lying with the NCLT. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Wednesday posed three questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including why Pakistan's Premier Imran Khan is "endorsing" him, and said he should answer them during his rally at Ramlila Maidan here. "Why didn't the BJP pass an ordinance and stop the sealing? In 2014, Modi promised full statehood for Delhi. Why didn't the BJP grant full statehood? Why Imran Khan is endorsing Narendra Modi?" Kejriwal asked the prime minister while speaking to reporters. He again accused the BJP of orchestrating an attack on him during a roadshow and asked which country's prime minister gets a chief minister attacked. Kejriwal was slapped allegedly by a disgruntled AAP supporter during a roadshow in Moti Nagar on Saturday. The AAP, however, claims that the BJP is behind the attack. The BJP has rubbished the claim as Kejriwal's "propaganda". Modi will address an election rally at the Ramlila Maidan in the national capital on Wednesday. BJP's Delhi unit has planned to organise at least two public meetings to seek support for its all seven candidates in the national capital. Delhi goes to poll this Sunday and the counting of votes will take place on May 23. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Russia on Wednesday said it stood by the Iran nuclear deal and denounced US pressure that led to Tehran to suspend some of its commitments under the agreement. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin remained committed to the agreement and that there were no alternatives "at the moment" to the deal. "Putin has repeatedly spoken about the consequences of ill-considered steps towards Iran, meaning the decision taken by Washington" to reimpose sanctions, Peskov said. He said Russia would work with European countries to maintain the "continued viability" of the nuclear deal and that it was too early to discuss the possibility of Russia joining sanctions against Tehran. "Putin has said that it is ill-conceived and arbitrary decisions that put unreasonable pressure on Iran and cause the adverse steps that we are facing. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Sri Lankan government has announced a one-year debt moratorium and subsidised working capital for the tourism sector as a slew a measures to help revive the tourism industry hit hard by the Easter Sunday terror attacks. The relief package comes as the official tourism arrival figures released on Tuesday, the first monthly report since the terror attacks, showed that Sri Lanka's tourist arrivals declined 7.5 per cent in April 2019 compared to the same period last year. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority said April recorded 166,975 foreign tourists in the country compared to 180,429 in April 2018, a 7.5 per cent dip in arrival of tourists from abroad. State Minister for Finance Eran Wickremeratne said the debt moratorium will be given by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka to tourism sector institutions and individuals, on a case-by-case basis. The moratorium period will be until March 31, 2020 for both capital and interest payments granted to the tourism sector as of April 18, 2019, the minister said. The interest subsidy is borne by the government on outstanding credit facilities, both capital and interest, he said. The working capital debt and interest will be treated as separate loans to be repaid from July 2020. Working capital loans will be based on revenue of hotels. Up to 75 per cent of the interest will be subsidised, the state minister said. The Value Added Tax on hotels will also be reduced to 5 per cent from 15 per cent, Wickremeratne said. Duty free importation will be allowed for security equipment such as handheld metal detectors, walk-through metal detectors, baggage x ray inspection equipment and vehicle scanners. The bombings, which targeted three Christian churches and three Colombo hotels, killed over 250 people, including 44 foreigners, and injured over 500, including 37 foreigners. Tourism industry officials said there have been 70 per cent cancellations of prior bookings after the attacks. The US, China, the UK, India and Australia were among the countries which issued travel warnings on Sri Lanka following the blasts carried out by local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jammath (NTJ). Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena Tuesday appealed to the international community to lift travel the warnings issued after the terror attacks. Tourism accounts for about five per cent of Sri Lanka's economy, with India, Britain and China being the main markets. The country earned about USD 4.4 billion in 2018 from the tourism sector. Around 450,000 Indian tourists visited Sri Lanka last year and the island nation was expecting the total Indian tourist arrivals to cross one million in 2019. Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority Chairman Kishu Gomes has said that tourist arrivals are expected to fall 60 percent in May. Sri Lanka is expected to lose 1.5 billion US dollars in revenue from tourism in 2019. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The situation that has evolved around the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action is unacceptable, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a foreword to the meeting with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif. "We will have to discuss the unacceptable situation, which has evolved around the JCPOA, the situation, which has evolved because of the United States irresponsible behavior, which abandoned its commitments enshrined in the relevant UN Security Council resolution," TASS cited him as saying. The Russian top diplomat noted that Moscow values Tehrans commitment to the reached agreements and the UN Security Council resolution "as was once again clarified today in Tehrans corresponding statement," Lavrov added. Sri Lankan authorities have launched an investigation into any lapses on part of the police which led to bail being granted to nine workers of a copper factory owned by a suicide bomber of the Easter terror attacks. The nine employees, arrested from the factory at Wellampitiya in Colombo suburb on April 22 over the attacks, were granted bail this week by the Colombo Magistrate's Court due to lack of documents and it was alleged that police may have erred by not filing the case under the anti-terrorism law. While granting bail, the court said the Wellampitiya Police had failed to mention the offences the suspects were alleged to have committed. The copper factory where the nine suspects were working was owned by Mohamed Ibrahim Insaf Ahmed, the suicide bomber at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, one of the three hotels that was attacked. While the factory owner blew himself up at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel his brother was one of the two bombers at the Shangri La Hotel. Another suicide bomb Attack at their Colombo apartment had killed the wife of the Shangri La bomber when security forces raided the house within a few hours of the attacks which claimed over 250 lives and injured 500 others. It was suspected that bombs had been packed at his factory. The investigation into any lapses by police is being conducted by the Police Special Investigations Unit (SPIU). "There will be an investigation into any police lapses," Police Spokesman Ruwan Gunasekara said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Sri Lankan government has restricted the five-day national Vesak festival celebrations to just two days citing the prevailing security situation in the country following the massive Easter Sunday bombings. Vesak, the Day of the Full Moon in the month of May, is the most sacred day to millions of Buddhists around the world and this year it was expected to be observed from May 17 to 21. Sri Lanka's top leadership has said that authorities have arrested or killed all the militants responsible for the deadly Easter blasts, but warned that the country still faces the threat of ISIS terror attacks. Buddhist Affairs Minister Gamini Jayawickrama Perera said that the five-day festival will now be limited to two days on May 17 and 18. Sri Lanka Chief Prelates (Mahanayakes -- a high-ranking member of the clergy) of four Buddhist chapters have requested the public not to hold celebrations on a large scale. In a joint statement, they said that the fundamental aim of celebrating the Vesak Full Moon Poya Day should be to wish for mental happiness for Sri Lankans affected by the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks. Priority should be given for spiritual values leaving out external functions, they said. The Mahanayakes have requested to give priority for the advice given by security authorities and for public safety in organising all Buddhist functions. Nine suicide bombers carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels on April 21, killing more than 250 people. The ISIS terror group claimed the attacks, but the government blamed local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jammath (NTJ) for the bombings. The victims included over 40 foreigners, 10 of whom were Indians. Vesak, also known as 'Buddha Jayanti', is a holiday traditionally observed by Buddhists and some Hindus globally. It was on the Day of Vesak two and a half millennia ago when the Buddha was born. It was also on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha attained enlightenment, and it was on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha in his eightieth year passed away, according to the UN. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Sri Lankan man was arrested Wednesday for allegedly attempting to bribe a police officer to obtain bail for an Islamic extremist held in connection with the Easter Sunday terror attacks. The 26-year-old suspect, Mohammed Shifan, had offered Rs 500,000 as a bribe to the Officer in Charge (OIC) at the Horowpothana Police station to free a member of the National Thowheed Jamaath (NTJ), the Islamist group blamed for the April 21 bombings on three churches and three hotels here, the Colombo Page reported. Shifan is said to be a close accomplice of the NTJ member, Abdul Majeed Mohamed Niyaz, who was arrested on April 28 and was remanded until May 14. Niyaz is said to have been directly involved in the bomb attack on Shangri-La hotel on Easter Sunday. Shifan was ready to pay Rs 250,000 as an advance to secure the release of the NTJ member. The police officer had informed the Bribery Commission and Shifan was arrested while he was handing over the cash to the officer in his office. Nine suicide bombers carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and three luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday, killing more than 250 people. Dozens of people linked with the NTJ have been arrested following the blasts. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Hard as it may be to imagine, a young leopard has forged an unlikely bond with a mare at a farmhouse in Gujarat. The around one-and-a-half year old leopard has been visiting the farmhouse, located near a forest at Virod village on Vadodara's outskirts, for last four-five days apparently after taking a liking for the mare kept tied there to a tree. The farmhouse and the mare belong to villager Jagdishbhai Patel, who said the leopard has been coming to his field everyday during the night time. "The leopard rolls on the grass and plays near the mare, who has not resisted the big cat's move and keeps standing near the tree without any sign of panic," he told PTI over phone on Wednesday. He said while his family members were worried about the unusual visitor at their field, the other villagers were flocking the place to catch a glimpse of the camaraderie between the two animals. "The leopard has been coming to the farmhouse, located just about 25 metres from my house, after sunset and sits near the mare for some hours before disappearing. The carnivore has not attacked any human being though it bit a dog a couple of days back," Patel said. He said his farm labourers were scared of going near the mare to feed it and as a precaution, he has shifted his other cattle behind the house. He also requested the forest department to catch the spotted animal. Arvind Pawar of the city-based NGO Wildlife Rescue Trust said they have installed two night vision cameras to capture the leopard's images. The district forest department's rescue team member Nitin Patel said the young leopard's mother was also seen near the farmhouse in a video footage. "While the young feline sits in a water pit dug up near the spot where the mare is tied, its mother was seen climbing a nearby tree," he said. A cage along with a bait was placed nearby, but the leopard was yet to be caught, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A large blast rocked central Kabul Wednesday, officials confirmed, sending a plume of black smoke over the city in the latest explosion to hit the war-torn city and as Afghanistan observes the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. "I can confirm an explosion in the Shar-e-Naw area of Kabul. We are checking the details," Ferdaws Framurz, a spokesman for the city's police force, told AFP. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the explosion happened near the offices of CARE International, an NGO with operations in Afghanistan. "We don't know the nature of the explosion yet but small arms firing has also been heard in the area," Rahimi added. The blast comes as the US and Taliban representatives continue negotiations in Qatar aimed at bringing an end to the nearly 18-year-old conflict. The talks follow a massive peace summit in Kabul last week where President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban a ceasefire to begin on the first day of Ramadan, but the insurgents refused. The Taliban have rebuffed repeated calls to halt fighting over the last year as they seek to gain leverage at the negotiating table by pressing the fight on the battlefield. Last year the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire at the end of Ramadan after Ghani declared a unilateral truce for eight days earlier in the month. It was first formal nationwide ceasefire since the US-led invasion of 2001 and saw unprecedented scenes of reconciliation and jubilation across the country. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Are you organising a political rally? Do you want a crowd for it? Which "kit" or "package" do you want? A cacophony of such questions is likely to greet a person visiting the only taxi stand in Gulha Cheeka village, located on the Punjab-Haryana border. For the cab operators at this taxi stand in Kurukshetra Lok Sabha constituency, elections are a time to make some quick money. They stop cab operations and instead provide vehicles and crowds for political rallies. Based on their requirements, customers can choose from different "kits" and "packages". A "kit" refers to a five or seven-seater car with or without as many occupants. A "package" includes 50 "kits". High-end "packages" also offer "characterisation" of crowds. "If it is a rally in Punjab, they want more Sikhs. And if it's a rally in Haryana, they want more Jats. So we provide all kinds of crowds. We have our own cars as well and since a large number of vehicles are needed for rallies, we outsource them for a commission," Binny Singhla, a local taxi operator, told PTI. According to Singhla, there is usually a demand for 150-500 "kits" whenever there are rallies in Punjab and Haryana. "We have sent 'packages' to two rallies in Rajasthan as well. But our business is not active in other states yet because then there are stay requirements for those travelling," he said. While a five-seater car alone is available for Rs 2,500, one with occupants costs Rs 4,500. In case of requirement of modification in the look of the crowd, a "kit" can cost up to Rs 6,000. Explaining the business, 47-year-old Rakesh Kapoor, another taxi operator, said, "We give Rs 300 each to the people going to the rallies. The party which has bought the package is responsible for arranging food and alcohol for them if the rally is scheduled for the evening. If they cannot make the arrangements, we do it on their behalf but we charge extra for that." He said the political parties never approach them directly and instead their ground workers reach out to them. Asked about the people who form the crowd, Kapoor explained, "They are the ones who work in farms or shops. Even college boys and 'ghunghat'-clad women, who are homemakers, are ready to go to rallies as long as they are paid and treated well." Both Singhla and Kapoor said the vehicles reaching rallies are strictly checked by workers of political parties to ensure that they are getting what they paid for. "At least 10 kilometers before a rally venue, there will be party workers who will check each car and record videos so the vehicles' registration plates are seen and so are the people sitting inside," Singhla said. "One can't promise them 100 cars and send less. They maintain a proper list of the number of cars that come," he said. Another taxi operator, Manjinder Singh, said this business took off only before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. "A decade ago, parties would call the police personnel in the area who would direct all the taxi operators to send their cars. If they didn't do so, they would be fined for something or the other," he said. "Gathering a crowd was also easy then, but now things are different. People who go to the rallies ask us if the car will have an air conditioner, what will be on the menu and other such things. People now cannot be taken casually. If they spare a day, they want something in return and to be treated properly," he added. Singhla, Kapoor and Singh said they do not try to influence people they send to rallies in favour of any party. "It is up to them who they want to vote for. Our role is limited to getting them to the rallies. Neither do we ask them to vote for any party, nor will they listen to us. Usually the same person ends up going to rallies of different political parties, how can we ask them to vote for one," Kapoor said. The 10 Lok Sabha seats in Haryana will go to polls on May 12. Polling for the 13 seats in Punjab is scheduled for May 19, the last round of the seven-phase parliamentary elections. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The government has approved a proposal of drug firm to take more time for completion of its project at special economic zone (SEZ) with proposed investment of Rs 205.69 crore. The decision to give more time was taken by the the Board of Approval (BoA) in its meeting on April 22 here. BoA is an inter-ministerial body, headed by the Commerce Secretary. It is the highest decision-making authority of SEZs. "The board, after deliberations, approved extension of the validity of the LoP (letter of permission) up to April 11, 2020," the minutes of the BoA meeting said. The company is setting up its pharma unit in SEZ to manufacture pharmaceutical formulations metered dose inhalers and dry powder inhalers. It has requested for extension of letter of permission (LoP) beyond April 11, 2019, for one year up to April 11, 2020. It had received the LoP on April 12, 2016, extended twice till April 11 this year. The development commissioner (DC) of SEZ had recommended the company's request to BoA as the unit has made expenditure of Rs 43.11 crore till March 28 and the construction activities are in full swing and, are expected to be completed by November 2019. The unit has expressed its commitment to commence production before March 2020. The company has stated that the delay in apportionment of land resulted in delayed start of the project. As per the SEZ rules, DC is authorised to grant extension of validity of LoP beyond second year of expiry of the original validity. However, it is subject to a condition that two-thirds of the activities including construction relating to setting up of the unit is complete and a chartered engineer's certificate to this effect is submitted by the If these conditions are not met, then the unit has to approach the BoA for seeking more time. Further, the Board of Approval has granted in-principle to a proposal of L&T MBDA Missile Systems Ltd for setting up of an SEZ unit in Aspen Infrastructure Ltd for assembling, integration, functional testing of missile sub systems and missile weapon systems. Similarly, a proposal of Tata Power Company, SEZ unit under Cochin SEZ, for grant of industrial licence for manufacture of defence aircraft for military applications. Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee will play an important role in forming the next non-BJP government at the Centre, Andra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu said on Wednesday. Naidu, also the TDP president, alleged that BJP is playing the communal card to polarise votes in West Bengal as it failed to fight the state chief minister politically. Naidu came to West Bengal on a two-day visit to address public rallies in support of the TMC. He is also scheduled to hold a meeting with Banerjee at Kharagpur on Thursday. The Telugu Desam Party chief came to the state straight from New Delhi where he met Congress president Rahul Gandhi and discussed plans to hold a meeting of opposition parties on May 21, two days ahead of Lok Sabha results, to chalk out a post-poll alliance. Two other prominent opposition leaders, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao and his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan also met at Thiruvanantapuram on Tuesday. "Mamata-ji is a fighter. She brought down the 34-year long communist rule with her relentless efforts and then started the much-needed development work in West Bengal. "She will play an important role in forming the next non-BJP government in India after May 23," Naidu said while speaking at a political rally here. Starting his speech in Bengali, Naidu described Banerjee as a tigress not only of Bengal but also of the country. Later, he addressed the gathering in Hindi and English. "Mamata-ji has stood against the atrocities of the Narendra Modi regime and proved to be a challenge to these anti-constitutional forces. The BJP could not challenge Didi and her strength. That's the reason they are resorting to their never ending communal to divide the people of Bengal," the TDP chief asserted. He claimed that the federal spirit of the country is in danger now because of the unilateral approach of the BJP. "We are witnessing that institutions and constitutional bodies are being destroyed," he said. Alleging that the Election Commission is working at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he claimed that constitutional bodies are being used for willful persecution of political opponents across the country. Naidu urgent the voters in Jhargram Lok Sabha seat to ensure that the EVMs work properly and their votes go to the TMC candidate during polling on May 12. Naidu shares a very cordial relationship with the TMC supremo and had joined the mega opposition rally she had organised here in January. He also visited Banerjee during her dharna in February against the CBI's attempt to question the Kolkata Police Commissioner in connection with chit fund scams. Banerjee too had participated in a political rally organised by Naidu at Vizag in March. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Almost two weeks after he was booked for allegedly defaming Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on social media, Anupam Paul has taken to Facebook again, claiming that his ancestral house in Gomati district was set on fire by the supporters of the BJP. Paul was charged with forgery, defamation and criminal conspiracy on April 26 after it was found that he was running a "fake online campaign", purporting that Deb's wife Niti has filed for a divorce. The Facebook user had been on the run since then. Deb described the rumour as a "deep-rooted conspiracy" to tarnish his image. In a new Facebook post on Tuesday, Paul wrote, "My ancestral house at Jatanbari (Amarpur subdivision, Gomati district) was burnt for protesting against vulgar practices of BJP, I got the today, my mother and younger brother were kidnapped by BJP hooligans on (April) 29 night. There is no of my family till now." Uttam Banik, the sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) of Amarpur, said, "A general diary entry has been made at Natunbazar police station. A portion of the house at Jatanbari was gutted after the kitchen caught fire. No FIR has been filed so far." Meanwhile, the Congress Wednesday condemned the incident, asserting that no one "has the right to take law in his own hands". "We condemn what happened at Jatanbari. If Anupam Paul has committed any crime, law will take its own course. Setting fire to someone's house means taking laws in hands," party vice-president Tapas Dey said. Denying allegations of the BJP's involvement, spokesperson Ashok Sinha said Paul was "paid to malign the saffron party". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Torn apart by grinding poverty, a family of four in a Maoist stronghold in Jharkhand is barely able to hide its joy when a nine-year-old emerges muddied out of a dying pond with her catch: fish and snails. Unaware of the high notes of electioneering, the little girl, Dilma, had waited for hours for her prized possession which will be served to her family members later in the night in Kumkuma village in Khunti district, the land of tribal hero Birsa Munda. The legendary Birsa Munda, who some people here worship as 'Bhagwan', had rallied the tribals in the 19th century to fight the British Raj against land grabbing. Outside the remote village, where law-enforcement agencies dare not tread, poppy cultivation is done rampantly. The area, about 60 km from the seat of the state government in Ranchi, has gained notoriety in national and international markets for opium cultivation. "We are not into it. But villagers engaged in it earn at least a lakh for a kg of poppy," said the person who facilitated this correspondent's visit to the area. The cultivation from here reaches national and international drug markets, the person, who did not wish to be identified, told PTI, pointing towards the vast fields where poppy is cultivated. Jharkhand has emerged as one of the major hubs of illegal opium cultivation. According to government records, 301 people were arrested in the state in 2018, the number stood at 165 in 2017. Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance (NDPS) Act, 186 and 237 cases were registered in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Villagers cultivate opium at the instance of Maoists to raise funds, sources said. When asked about the trade, villagers appeared reluctant to talk. And the person accompanying the PTI correspondent suggested it was better to avoid photography in the village as the information would soon reach the Maoists. "We have nothing to do with poppy cultivation. We have no idea about people involved in it," said Gulomani Taon, a villager, sitting outside her mud hut. In a village nearby, Samson Munda said nobody, including police and other government officials, visited the poppy fields. Another villager, Sukhia Mundain, said it's time somebody intervened, the newer generation is getting addicted to the drugs. Last month in Khunti district, police arrested seven people with opium worth Rs 22 lakh. Two of them belonged to Uttar Pradesh and the rest from Jharkhand. "The cultivation of opium is reported mainly from Maoist strongholds like Khunti, Chatra, Saraikela and Palamu," a senior police official who did not wish to be named told PTI. "Gumla, Hazaribag and Chaibasa are becoming the new hubs." The official said Maoists and opium cultivators were inducing poverty-stuck unemployed tribal youth in the region to enter the illegal trade. "Opium cultivation on 2,160.85 acres and 2,676.5 acres were destroyed in 2018 and 2017, respectively. Apart from this, 37.43 quintals and 80.57 quintals of narcotics were seized in 2017 and 2018," the official said, explaining the expanse of the trade. Khunti, one of the 14 parliamentary constituencies in Jharkhand, is reserved. Previously a sub-division, Khunti district was carved out of Ranchi district in Sep 2007. Nagpuri and Mundari dialects are mainly spoken in the 750 villages here. In August last year, police seized 150 kg of poppy shells and 250 gram of opium in Jamshedpur meant be smuggled into West Bengal. Two persons were arrested. Poppy shells contain poppy seeds from which opium is made. In July, opium worth Rs 1 crore was seized in Hazaribagh district. In May, three suspected members of an inter-state drug cartel were arrested and 5 kg heroin worth over Rs 20 crore in the street market was seized from them. There are areas in Jharkhand where tribals cultivate opium illegally and process it into heroin and transport to Delhi and Uttar Pradesh through carriers. In neighbouring Bihar, opium cultivation in 158.19 acres of land has been destroyed this year till April in Gaya, Vaishali and Buxar districts. Illicit opium in over 153 acres was destroyed last year, mainly in Gaya, Rohtas and Jamui districts. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on May 13 in Sochi as part of his official visit to Russia, Russias Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said. She clarified that the parties will discuss future prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation. "Particular emphasis will be placed on preparing Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Russia and his participation in the work of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum," Zakharova noted. She added that Lavrov and Wng Yi will discuss Venezuela, Syria, Afghanistan, as well as the situation on the Korean Peninsula. In addition, the meeting will also focus on the issue of preserving the Joint Comprehensive Action Plan on the Iranian nuclear program, RIA Novosti reports. The BJP lodged its protest with the on Wednesday over "delay" in action against the leaders including its chief Arvind Kejriwal, on complaints of model code of conduct violations. The of Opposition in Assembly Vijender Gupta met the EC officials and demanded strict action against the leaders including "gagging" them for the alleged violations. "We have lodged complaints with the EC and the Chief Electoral Officer (Delhi) against the leaders with evidence. But no action has been taken which hints an unexpected favour to the AAP by the EC," Gupta said after the meeting. Unless urgent and immediate action is taken, the complaints will become futile. Delay in deciding the complaints or representation will only result in denial of our right to remedies, he said. "The Honourable of has a Constitutional obligation to ensure free and fair elections. It has a duty to take action against violators of poll rules and regulations for conducting the elections in a free and fair manner", it said. The BJP leaders have lodged several complaints of violations of model code of conduct (MCC) against the AAP, relating to alleged misuse of public funds for appeasement politics, paid news, spreading lies against BJP candidate Hans Raj Hans, asking voters to take money from BJP and but vote for the AAP. The fresh complaint filed by Gupta charged that despite various complaints and multiple representations, no concrete, tangible and substantial actions have been taken by the EC. In a democratic set up like India, the is entrusted with the obligation not only to sustain the democratic consciousness amongst the voters, but also to strengthen it further by taking necessary actions on MCC violations, Gupta added. Mexican authorities found Tuesday human remains that confirm the death of the 13 people on board a luxury jet that crashed over the weekend in the north of the country. The private plane took off Sunday from Las Vegas and was traveling to the Mexican city of Monterrey but crashed in a mountainous area difficult to access, where forensic experts had to arrive by helicopter. The experts "recovered all the bodies -- there are 13 of them," Coahuila state attorney general Gerardo Marquez said. He explained that seven of the bodies were "practically intact" but burned, while the other six were "reduced to very small fragments" due to the impact. The remains were identified thanks to the positions in which the bodies were found among the debris of the aircraft. Further identification will take place by analyzing teeth and bone fragments. Air-traffic controllers said they lost contact with the Bombardier Challenger 601 jet late Sunday, after it abruptly lost altitude over Coahuila. Only the wings and the tail were left intact while the fuselage was badly charred and shattered. Aboard the plane were two executives of the Mexican oil services company Typhoon Offshore, along with eight relatives, according to a company statement. The group had come to Las Vegas to attend a fight in which Mexican boxer Saul "El Canelo" Alvarez defeated Daniel Jacobs of the United States. On Twitter, the athlete expressed sorrow over the incident, saying "my prayers are with their relatives." The other three people who died were the crew of the plane, a twin-engine Bombardier Challenger 600 series. Coahuila Undersecretary of Civil Protection Francisco Martinez pointed to changing weather, with storms, hailstorms and strong winds as a possible cause of the crash. chief on Wednesday said Prime Minister will get re-elected for a second term after the Lok Sabha polls as he has blessings of the people of the country. Shah said wherever he goes in the country, he hears the chants of "Modi, Modi". "I have visited the entire India during the Lok Sabha electioneering and wherever I went Modi, Modi chants rented the air. "This is not just a slogan but the manifestation of 125 crore people's blessings for Modi," he told an election rally here. "Narendra Modiji is going to become the Prime Minister again on May 23 the date the result of the general elections will be announced," he added. Showering praises on Modi, Shah said the Prime Minister is a workaholic, who has not taken even a single day's leave since the last 20 years. Modiji works for 18 hours daily, he said, adding in contrast, chief dashes off to foreign destinations when the mercury shoots up in the summer. His party and his mother then look for him, the chief said, taking potshots at Gandhi. He asked people to vote for Modi as the country was safe in his hands. "During the previous regime of Sonia-Manmohan, our jawans were slaughtered and their heads were taken away. But the previous UPA government kept mum," he said. However, things have changed under the Modi government, Shah said. He said after the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF men attained martyrdom, Pakistan, fearing a surgical strike, increased vigil at the border. But Modi, who has a 56-inch chest, gave a free hand to the Air Force and our jawans bombed a terror camp at Balakot in Pakistan and blew away terrorists, he said. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday called on signatories to abide by the Iran nuclear deal, during a press conference in Moscow with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif. "I believe the only practical steps that need to be taken in order to resolve the situation... is to convince all remaining participants to fulfil their obligations," he said. Lavrov said the 2015 deal had been "fragile" since US President Donald Trump announced Washington would pull out a year ago. European signatories of the deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), were trying to "divert attention" from their inability to implement points of the agreement, Lavrov said. "We will call on them, as we have done before, to concentrate on implementing everything that is enshrined in the JCPOA and approved by the UN Security Council." Zarif's Moscow visit came as Iran said it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under the deal until other signatories find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions. Washington reimposed sanctions after it quit the agreement one year ago, dealing a severe blow to the Iranian economy. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) An expert panel of the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) has unanimously proposed to remove the contents of "virginity test" from the curriculum of forensic medicine of MBBS course. The paraclinical expert academic board of Nashik-based MUHS took the decision following a plea by Dr Indrajit Khandekar, professor, forensic medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (MGIMS) Sewagram, who said "virginity test" has no scientific basis. The MUHS had held a meeting on April 9 under the chairmanship of Dr R J Bharma. Board members, including forensic experts Dr Hemant Godbole and Dr Sandip Kadu, were also present at the meeting, where this decision was taken. The board's move came in response to a detailed report submitted to Registrar of MUHS Dr K D Chavan on December 26, 2018 by Khandekar. Khandekar had urged the state government and the MUHS to remove the contents about "virginity test" from the medical curriculum of forensic medicine subject of MBBS course on the ground that it has no scientific basis. Khandekar, in his report, had highlighted the unscientific basis on which virginity is determined by doctors and reasons for its removal from the syllabus. The report had also highlighted how it violates human rights and leads to gender discrimination. Due to inclusion of signs of virginity in medical syllabus, almost all the textbooks of forensic medicine of MBBS course includes the details of virginity, its signs and medicolegal aspects, he said. Khandekar said some textbooks also gives details about 'false virgin and true virgin'. But no textbook quotes any scientific literature or study to support their statements or information, he said. "Inclusion of 'signs of virginity' in medical curriculum/textbooks has created (and still continuing to create) wrong impression in the minds of doctors, general public, communities that virginity test is scientific and medical one. "Hence, there is a need to highlight the unscientific basis of it in medical books," said Khandekar. He said virginity is a very personal issue and no one has any right to know whether the other person is virgin or not. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Levels of harmful airborne pollutants in nail salons are similar to that of an oil refinery or an auto garage, putting employees at increased risk of developing cancers, respiratory difficulties and skin irritation, a study warns. The research, which monitored volatile organic compound (VOC) levels in six nail salons, is among the first to illustrate the serious health risks prevalent in the industry. According to a team from the University of Colorado Boulder in the US, nail salon employees face increased health risks due to high levels of indoor airborne pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined that long-term exposure to carcinogenic compounds significantly raises the chances of developing cancers such as leukemia and Hodgkin's lymphoma. "The study provides some of the first hard evidence that these environments are dangerous for workers and that better policies need to be enacted to protect them," said Lupita Montoya, lead author of the research. Montoya's interest in researching airborne hazards in nail salons dates back nearly a decade. She recalls visiting a salon years ago and being struck by the pungent smell of open chemicals used in gel and acrylic nail applications. The air quality could not be very good in such a confined space with poor ventilation, she suspected, drawing on her background as a mechanical engineer. However, while many of the VOCs from nail products had already been identified, no scientific studies had looked at the long-term health impacts for workers exposed to them day in and day out. Montoya tried to get field tests started, but securing a location proved difficult. Nail salons in the US are small businesses, employing a predominantly minority workforce and lacking the resources to adequately address worker health and safety. Fearing consequences, many declined to participate, Montoya said. In 2017, four undergraduate students working with Montoya used personal connections to help secure access to six salons for a monitoring test over the course of 18 months. The salons agreed to participate on the condition of anonymity. The researchers set up equipment to monitor known VOCs such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes (BTEX, collectively) along with formaldehyde. While formaldehyde levels were similar to those measured in other settings, the study turned up higher-than-expected concentrations of harmful benzene, which has been linked to leukemia, in all six salons. The team asked employees to fill out questionnaires about employment practices, safety practices and health symptoms. Technicians reported working an average of 52.5 hours per week, with some ranging as high as 80 hours per week. Seventy per cent of workers reported experiencing at least one adverse symptom, with common responses including headaches, skin irritation and eye irritation. The study found that for workers in some salons, lifetime cancer risk was up to 100 times higher than baseline EPA-issued levels. The researchers stressed that salon customers, however, face significantly fewer risks. The observed levels of air pollution observed are unlikely to have any negative health effects on all but the most vulnerable, such as those who are pregnant or have serious asthma. The team is also working on ways to reduce VOC concentrations passively using low-cost, absorbent materials like heat-treated coal or wood with strong affinity for organic molecules like BTEX compounds. These activated carbon materials can remove harmful VOCs through passive diffusion. Researchers used activated carbon-based materials to create gallery-worthy artwork. The pieces could hang on the wall in a nail salon, pleasing to the eye while quietly cleaning the air. However, this method takes a long time. Air jets that direct polluted air toward the absorbent material with greater flow provide far more efficient removal. In an ideal real-world setting, small jets would sit at the end of each table, fanning the chemical fumes directly toward the charcoal artwork, efficiently eliminating lingering VOCs. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The NIA, probing the murder case of Ramalingam, who opposed the alleged bid to convert people to Islam, has submitted in a court here there was a need to probe if the accused were involved with terror outfits like ISIS. Seeking extension of detention for 10 of the 16 accused men upto 180 days under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the National Investigation Agency submitted in a Special Court for NIA Cases that the nature of assault against him and injury sustained warranted a further probe. The murder happened in a 'Jihadi' way by severing his hand and hence there may be a possibility of the accused being trained in some terror outfit, the probe agency contended. While 10 accused men are in judicial custody, six others are absconding. The NIA in its plea said: "The way of injury is similar to the attack of Jihad activities as found in similar cases which were reported in several states. Therefore investigation needs to be probed further whether these assailants have any involvement with ISIS or any other terror organisation." Therefore the probe needs to be continued beyond 90 days, warranting further judicial custody of the accused -upto 180 days-, the prosecution contended. The statement of witnesses, as well as the confession of the accused revealed that they were promoting 'Jihadi' activities, which has to be probed further. Ramalingam, a Pattali Makkal Katchi functionary and resident of temple town of Thiruvidaimarudhur in Thanjavur district, was allegedly killed on February 5, 2019 for opposing a bid to preach and convert people to Islam in Paku Vinayagam Thopu village. The accused used sickles and tried to chop off his hands, grievously injuring him in the process. Ramalingam was pronounced dead at a government hospital. Mohammed Asarudeen, Mohammed Riyas, Nijam Ali, Sarbudeen, Mohammed Rishwan are among accused men. Accused men 1 to 5 were arrested on February 6, and A 6 to A 8 on Feb 9, and A 9 on Feb 10 and accused A 10 on Feb 12 and were produced before a local court and remanded to judicial custody. While local police initially probed the case, it was taken up by the NIA on April 25, 2019. Also, the NIA said it was seen in the statement of witnesses that a conspiracy was hatched by the accused to "do away with deceased Ramalingam," as he was against Muslims indulging in "forceful conversion" of Hindus to Islam and this aspect too warranted further investigation. The probe agency said the accused acted as members of terrorist gang to achieve their goal. The accused (A 11 to A 16) are absconding, NIA said. The agency said the accused had surplus funds though they were not properly employed and hence it has to be probed to ascertain if any foreign funding reached the accused. Counsels for the accused objected to the prosecution plea seeking extension of detention. Praying for the dismissal of the plea, the defence said the respondents did not commit any offence as alleged by NIA and submitted that they were falsely implicated. They also said the Popular Front of India (of which the accused are allegedly members) was not a banned outfit (in Tamil Nadu) and hence commission of a terror act by members of a terrorist organisation does not fall within the ambit of the UAP Act. The PFI is banned in several States, the NIA contended. After hearing the argument of both sides, special court Judge P Chenthoorpandi, citing their arguments, said under Section 2(1) of the UAP Act, a terrorist gang means any association other than terrorist organisation, whether systematic or otherwise. "Whatever it may be, such a point does not deserve any consideration in this petition," the judge observed. The prosecution report and a perusal of records showed that the probe by the NIA "needs to go further and cannot be completed within the period of 90 days," the court said. Allowing NIA's plea, the court extended the custody of 10 men accused in the case by upto 180 days. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed Wednesday not to allow Iran to acquire nuclear arms after the Islamic republic said it would abandon limits on its nuclear activities agreed in a 2015 deal. "This morning on my way here I heard that Iran intends to continue its nuclear programme," Netanyahu said at a ceremony on Israel's annual day of remembrance for its fallen soldiers and civilian victims of militant attacks. "We shall not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon," he said in Hebrew. Netanyahu has been an outspoken opponent of Iran's landmark nuclear deal with major powers and was the leading supporter of US President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from it and reimpose crippling economic sanctions last year. Israel is considered the leading military power in the Middle East and is widely believed to possess its sole, if undeclared, nuclear arsenal. On Wednesday Tehran said it was ending curbs on its uranium enrichment stockpile agreed under the 2015 deal until other powers help it bypass the renewed US sanctions. Iran does not recognise its archfoe Israel and opposition to the Jewish state has been a central tenet of official policy since the Islamic revolution. Iran has supported Palestinian and other anti-Israel groups, including Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah. Israel has said publicly that it has carried out hundreds of air and missile strikes targeting the forces of Iran and Hezbollah in neighbouring Syria. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The National Green Tribunal has directed Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and others to probe the allegation of illegal operation of PVC units in Narela here. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel formed a committee comprising officials from DPCC, North Delhi District Magistrate and the North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) to look into the matter. It was hearing a plea filed by residents of Kamruddin Nagar village at Narela alleging illegal operation of PVC units. "Let joint committee take appropriate action in accordance with law and furnish a factual and action taken report in the matter within two months by e-mail at ngt.filing@gmail.com. The nodal agency will be the DPCC for coordination and compliance," the bench said. The tribunal also directed that a copy of this order, along with complaint, be sent each to the DPCC, District Magistrate and the NDMC by e-mail for compliance. "Needless to say that order of National Green Tribunal is binding as a decree of court and non-compliance is actionable by way of punitive action including prosecution, in terms of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010," the bench said. The matter is posted for next hearing on August 30. The petition stated that though the MCD had sealed some units, many other engaged in manufacturing of PVC grinder etc. are still continuing. It is necessary to remove three-phase electricity connections so as to prevent operation of PVC units which cause a lot of pollution, it said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi was denied bail by a UK court on Wednesday for the third time in his extradition case to India to face charges in the Punjab National Bank fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to USD 2 billion and will continue to be lodged in a London jail described by his lawyers as "unliveable". His bail, which had already been rejected twice before by Westminster Magistrates' Court in London, came up for a third attempt before Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot, who ruled that while the doubling of security offered by Modi's lawyers did amount to a change in circumstances in order for her to hear the "renewed" bail plea, she still had similar concerns as before that he would fail to surrender before the court. "This is a large fraud and the doubling of security to 2 million pounds is not sufficient to cover a combination of concerns that he would fail to surrender (if bail is granted)," said Judge Arbuthnot. The next hearing in the case will now take place on May 30, the previously scheduled date for a case management hearing in Modi's extradition case. Modi, who has been lodged at Wandsworth prison in south-west London since his arrest in March, was brought up to the dock and sat behind a glass-panelled enclosure with two female prison officers. The 48-year-old, who was freshly-shaved and dressed in a light-blue shirt and dark trousers, could be seen making copious notes in a notebook during the entire course of the hearing. "His experience in custody has been vivid and damaginghe is willing to abide by any bail conditions imposed by the court because Wandsworth is unliveable and makes the effective preparation of his case virtually impossible," said his barrister Clare Montgomery, in an attempt to persuade the judge to grant bail on a strict 24-hour curfew at his posh Centrepoint apartment in the West End of London. "Suffice to say efforts to present him [by the government of India] as a diabolical mechanic and cold blooded, hardened criminal are completely false," Montgomery added. However, the judge was particularly concerned about Modi's "lack of community ties" in the UK, having been based in London for only a "short period of time" since 2017. And, while his lawyers sought to convince her otherwise with claims that two of his elder children were back in the UK for summer internships, the judge expressed doubts on the extent to which adult children can tie anyone down to a place. "Given the nature of the crime of sizeable fraud and that USD 60 million has been squirrelled away by him personallythe interference of witnesses, destruction of servers and mobile phonescombined with a lack of community ties mean I still have doubts that he would fail to surrender," the judge said. She made particular note of a transcript of a conversation provided by the Indian authorities between Modi's brother, Nehal Modi, with one of the witnesses in the case, where it appeared that he was telling them what to say. It led her to dismiss the defence team's claims that the witnesses were in fact being leant on or intimidated by the Indian authorities. Montgomery characterised the case as a classic white collar crime that came with relatively low risk but the UK's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which represents the Indian government in the extradition proceedings, countered that in fact the case was "not an ordinary corporate case", with direct evidence of embezzlement of funds with the connivance of bank officers in India. "There is very credible evidence of interference with witnessesthey (former employees) were being told what to say. And, there is nothing to prevent a concerted attempt by Modi to abscond," said CPS barrister Nick Hearn. The court heard great details of how Modi's US-based brother, Nehal, interacted with former employees of companies associated with Modi and arranged for their flights to Cairo, Egypt, and was also said to be behind the destruction of "evidence" in the form of servers and mobile phones. Hearn also made reference to USD 60 million held in one of Modi's personal accounts, which indicated that there was a large scale of untraced fraudulent funds, which Modi would have greater influence over in a "less secure environment outside jail". "There have been significant seizures in India of concrete assets, precious items [belonging to Modi]," Montgomery said, in an attempt to counter allegations that he would have substantial assets at his disposal were he to be released. She also raised the failure of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to corroborate a previous claim of Modi having travelled to New York in February 2019 and repeated her previous submission that her client sees the UK as a "safe haven" and has chosen not to flee to any other country with which India does not have an extradition treaty. Modi's legal team, led by solicitor Anand Doobay, had previously offered 1 million pounds as security alongside an offer to meet stringent electronic tag restrictions on their client's movements, "akin to house arrest" something they further bolstered on Wednesday by doubling the sum and offering a 24-hour electronic tag curfew. He was arrested by Scotland Yard officers in central London on March 19. During subsequent hearings, the court was told that Modi was the "principal beneficiary" of the fraudulent issuance of letters of undertaking (LoUs) as part of a conspiracy to defraud PNB and then laundering the proceeds of crime. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Russias Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova commented on holding the 9th International Winners Forum 'The Great Victory Gained by Unity' in Saint Petersburg, attended by representatives of all the former Soviet countries, answering to the request of Vestnik Kavkaza at the briefing today. The significance of this event is indisputable. The forum has established itself as an authoritative platform designed to preserve the memory of the Great Patriotic War as the most important historical event that unites the peoples of the former Soviet Union, she said in the first place. Maria Zakharova also stressed that the forum contributes to actualizing the role and contribution of representatives of all peoples of the former USSR to the Great Victory, the formation of common approaches of the expert community, the public, including the youth elites of the Commonwealth states, aimed at countering the falsification of history. The 9th International Winners Forum 'The Great Victory Gained by Unity' took place in St. Petersburg on April 25. The event was attended by representatives of international agencies, employees of the Russian Presidential Administration, political, media and cultural figures of Russia, Abkhazia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Estonia and South Ossetia. The adopted by the end of the forum says: "the feat of the defenders of the Fatherland is alive in the memory of current generations. Our common duty is to keep this memory, teach young people respect for it and firmly resist any attempts to rewrite history, or belittle the role of the peoples of the Soviet Union in the victory over fascism." State-owned miner NMDC Ltd Wednesday cautioned against a fake recruitment notice for the post of executive trainees. NMDC has observed that some websites have hosted recruitment notice about 'NMDC Executive Trainees Recruitment 2019', the PSU said in a statement. "This is to inform that it is a fake that is being spread through websites and social media with malicious intent. All concerned are requested to beware of such mischievous act aiming to deceive the innocent by fraudulent means and hence do not pay any attention or act upon it," the company said. NMDC said that it has not issued any such notification pertaining to the recruitment of executive trainees on any website or newspaper. "NMDC does not take any responsibility for public responding to/applying against such fake posts," the company added. According to its website, NMDC, under the Ministry of Steel, is India's largest iron ore producer, presently producing about 30 million tonnes of iron ore from 3 fully mechanized mines. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Predicting that no single party will get a majority in Election 2019, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia says his party will forge a strong alliance of like-minded entities to create a "UPA plus plus" government at the Centre and end five years of "injustice". The days of coalition governments are here to stay, the Congress general secretary, who is seeking a fresh mandate from the electorate of Madhya Pradesh's Guna-Shivpuri seat for a fifth term, told PTI in an interview. Asked about the Congress' chances after five rounds of the seven-phase elections, Scindia said he never quantifies the number of seats but can see that the mood of the people is against the present BJP dispensation. "My assessment is the Congress party, the UPA government will form the government at the Centre and I am very confident of our performance as a coalition," he said. "I think the people of India are waiting for the moment to respond to the injustice that has been meted out to them by the Narendra Modi government over the last five years," Scindia told PTI during his election campaign in the region. It goes without saying that no single party, be it the BJP or the Congress or any other party, is going to get an absolute majority, he said "It will be a coalition government at the Centre as it is now or has been for the past 25-30 years in the country," the 48-year-old said. "That being said, I firmly believe the UPA will be able to stitch together a very strong coalition government," he added. Asserting that he is not an astrologer, he said he predicted that the Congress and its allies will put together a "very strong performance". "We look forward to putting together a strong coalition government with like- minded parties which will be the UPA or UPA plus plus," he said. The United Progressive Alliance, formed after the 2004 polls and led by the Congress, ruled the country for 10 years with Manmohan Singh as the prime minister and Sonia Gandhi as its chairperson. BJP'S NATIONALISM CAMPAIGN The son of the late Congress stalwart Madhavrao Scindia said the Bharatiya Janata Party was harping on subjects related to nationalism as it had nothing to say on development issues. "That's very understandable. Because we have always come on the plank of economic growth, development and progress. We have come on the plank of alleviation of poverty. "The BJP has nothing to talk about in its last five years of governance. The last time they were in government, they talked about India Shining. And India was shining only for the BJP but not for the rest of the country," he said. This time, Scindia added, they came up with the slogan 'acche din' which applied only to a sub-section of a limited coterie of the BJP. "If you ask the common worker of the BJP or even its MPs, not even their 'acche din' have arrived," the former Union minister said. He recalled the mathematical concept of LCM (least common multiple) to say, "The LCM for the BJP is Hindutva and phoney rashtravad (nationalism)," he said. NYAY The Congress leader, who holds sway in the Gwalior-Chambal belt of Madhya Pradesh, said he didn't agree that the party's minimum income scheme (NYAY) promise to provide Rs 72,000 per annum to about five crore poor households has not clicked with the masses. "The judgement will come on (counting day) May 23. So, let's wait. I am very confident the people of India have understood the concept of NYAY. It is not a very difficult concept," he said. RAHUL GANDHI AS PM An important member of Rahul Gandhi's core committee, Scindia said the Congress president is the obvious PM choice for them but a final decision will be taken by the UPA's constituents. "We are not like the BJP which believes one man, one way or the highway. We believe in working together and taking everyone along," he said. "The Congress party is one constituent of the UPA and as far as Congress party is concerned, our voice is very clear that it should be Rahul Gandhi but it will be a collective decision," he said. Why are these elections important for the Congress? "It is because of two reasons. One is that we want to save the country from this dictatorial and authoritarian rule that is smashing our Constitution and two, to be able to give a vision for India, for the farmers, for our youth in terms of employment to take our country forward. "The Congress took the country forward in 10 years of the UPA by delivering a 7.8 percent compounded annual growth rate of over a decade which is a stupendous achievement that lifted about 25 million people out of poverty. This government has just taken us 20 years back," he said. So, it's a twin purpose -- it is to salvage our democracy and Constitution and freedom of liberty and rights and to take the country forward, he added. PM'S COMMENTS ON RAJIV GANDHI Modi's recent comment on the late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, calling him "corrupt no 1", was distasteful and sad, Scindia said. "It is very hurtful to see that the person occupying the highest chair of this country talking about another person who occupied that same very chair and who is no longer in this world and cast slurs on that person. It does not behove someone who occupies that chair and sad to see that this is the level of that Mr Modi has come down to," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Olympia Cyberspace, unit of the city-based Olympia Group Wednesday said, it has planned to set up an Information Technology park spread across 1.1 million square foot here at an investment of about Rs 750 crore. The IT Park is being set up with US Private equity fund Apollo Global as joint venture partner. The campus to come up in Guindy here, is proposed to be constructed in three years and expected to generate 12,500 direct jobs. On the IT Park, Olympia Group Managing Director, Ajit Kumar Chordia said, "the ongoing demand for office space in city has prompted the development of IT Park". "The project will have a total investment of about Rs 750 crore and is expected to generate employment for 12,500 IT professionals directly..," he said. Noting that the project would be a milestone for the group in the IT office space vertical, he said, "we are confident that this facility will attract IT/ITeS MNCs that benefit from the state-of-the-art amenities at a strategic location". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) National Conference leader Omar Abdullah Wednesday said action must be taken in the alleged bribery of journalists by BJP leaders in Leh in Jammu and Kashmir. "In light of the CCTV footage purported to show BJP leaders attempting to bribe journalists in Leh, I'm retweeting my original tweet with the letter of complaint by the Press Club Leh. Action must follow," Abdullah said in a tweet. The former chief minister was reacting to emergence of a CCTV footage from a hotel in Leh where several BJP leaders, including the party's state president Ravindra Raina, could be seen distributing envelopes among journalists. However, as soon as the journalists opened the envelopes, they returned those to the BJP leaders. Later, seven journalists from Press Club Leh wrote a letter to local police Station House Officer and asked him to register an FIR against Raina and another BJP leader Vikram Randhawa for "violating the model code of conduct and also at their attempt to bribe mediapersons of Ladakh". "This is the CCTV footage of the alleged bribery attempt. Kudos to the journalists in Leh, their integrity and honesty is a shining example for their fellow journalists," Abdullah said in another tweet. This is second allegation of bribery against the BJP in Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency. Police registered an FIR on 3 May 2019 for investigating an incident of distribution of money to people at an election rally of the BJP in the Nubra area of Ladakh region. "An FIR...has been registered by the District Police Leh under Section 171-B, 171-E RPC against an incident of distributing cheques / cash to the people gathered for BJP rally held on 30th April, 2019 (Tuesday) in Nubra Assembly Segment of 4-Ladakh Parliamentary Constituency," an official said last week. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) In separate cases, customs officials Wednesday recovered over one kg gold and Rs 31 lakh in cash from four passengers, including a woman, who arrived from Colombo at the airport here. A Kuala Lumpur-bound woman was arrested for carrying undeclared cash of Rs 31 lakh, a Customs release here said. On Wednesday, officials of the Air Intelligence Unit of the Customs department intercepted three passengers who arrived from Colombo on suspicion, it said. A personal search of the three yielded 1.04 kg of pure gold and it was valued at Rs 34 lakh, it said. Similarly, the woman was found carrying Rs 31 lakh in denomination of Rs 2000 notes, it said. The money was recovered as "she had not declared" it and it was over the permissible limit of Rs 25,000, the release said, adding she was arrested. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Over 100 Hindu inmates of prisons in Delhi are observing roza, the dawn-to-dusk fast during Ramzan, along with Muslim prisoners. In a statement, the Tihar prison administration said out of 16,665 inmates lodged in 16 central jails of Delhi prisons, 2,658 prisoners are observing rozas. Out of these 2,658 inmates, 110 are Hindus. There are 31 Hindu women inmates and 12 Hindu adolescent inmates observing the fast during the holy month of Ramzan, the statement read. According to prison authorities, 'langar' timings have been modified to ensure availability of prescribed meals for 'sehri' and other prayers. "Inmate canteens have been stocked with Rooh Afza, dates and fresh fruits which can be purchased by the inmates. Arrangements for 'roza iftar' have been made in all central jails," the authorities said. Religious and charitable organisations have been permitted to make visits to conduct prayers and 'roza iftar' with inmates, subject to usual security precautions, they said. Delhi prisons comprise three jails -- Tihar, Rohini and Mandoli. The Ramzan fast begins with a pre-dawn meal called 'sehri' to prepare hungry stomachs for the long day ahead. A typical suhoor often includes bread, vegetables, fruits, yogurt, tea, as well as lentils and beans. At sunset, when it's time to mark the end of the daylong fast, families and friends gather for an evening meal known as 'iftar'. Muslims typically break their fast as the Prophet Muhammad did some 1,400 years ago, by eating sweet dates and drinking water, followed by a sunset prayer. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Over 20 Chinese have been arrested from various Pakistani cities during an ongoing crackdown for their alleged involvement in arranging illegal marriages of young Pakistani girls to Chinese nationals and forcing them into prostitution, officials said Wednesday. The crackdown was launched this week after media reports said that several Pakistani girls were subjected to sexual exploitation by Chinese husbands after going to China. The officials said that over 20 Chinese have been arrested from various Pakistani cities for their involvement in arranging fake marriages of Pakistani women and removing their organs and forcing them into prostitution. The Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) Anti-Human Trafficking Cell arrested 14 Chinese from twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi and recovered three Pakistani girls, said the officials in the Ministry of Interior. "For the first time illegal weapons were also recovered from the arrested Chinese," officials said, adding the rescued women revealed that they were being taken to China. Hundreds of Chinese have come to live in Pakistan in connection with various development work undertaken by the Chinese companies. Earlier, Interior Minister Ijaz Shah ordered action against those involved in illegal marriages and sending women to China. He also asked officials to get in touch with the Chinese embassy to address the issue. Chairman of the Senate standing committee on interior Rehman Malik has sought a detailed report in three days on women trafficking to China. The government recently ordered the FIA to take action against the gangs involved in smuggling of Pakistani girls to China on the pretext of contracting marriage. According to the local media reports, poor Christian girls are lured with money and promises of a 'good life' by the illegal matchmaking centres to marry Chinese men who are either visiting or working in Pakistan. These centres produce fake documents of Chinese men showing them either as Christians or Muslims. Most of the girls reportedly became victims of human trafficking and were forced into prostitution, the report said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The owner of a semi-built plot, where two workers died while cleaning a septic tank, was arrested for alleged negligence, police said on Wednesday. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal met the family members of the victims in the evening and promised a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased. The BJP accused the Aam Aadmi Party dispensation of negligence, while the National Human Rights Commission sought a report from the Delhi government, the police and chief secretary. Earlier on Tuesday, two contractual workers died and three others were hospitalised after apparently inhaling toxic gas when they entered a septic tank of the plot at Bhagya Vihar area of Prem Nagar in Rohini. "Gulam Mustafa, the owner of the semi-built plot, has been arrested late on Tuesday night," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Rohini) S D Mishra said. The plot has a 10-foot-deep septic tank, in which Mustafa and a mason named Rambir allegedly asked two labourers to go inside for cleaning on Tuesday. The labourers refused to clean the tank since they were not trained, but they were forced to enter after being blackmailed with not getting paid three days of wages, the police had said. According to Jaya Vardha, elder sister of one of the deceased: "The chief minister met us on Wednesday at around 6 pm and assured that the family of the deceased persons would get Rs 10 lakh and jobs." Vardha said Kejriwal told them that the injured persons would get free treatment and the government would bear there expenses. The NHRC issued notices to the chief secretary, Delhi government and the police commissioner, asking for a detailed report within six weeks. The commission has also asked the Delhi government to inform whether it had issued any guidelines prohibiting unauthorised construction and cleaning of septic tanks and, if so, why its strict compliance was not being ensured. It has directed the Delhi government to chalk out appropriate instructions to deal with the issue and inform. "The death of two workers due to inhaling poisonous gas during the cleaning of sewer in Prem Nagar area of Outer Delhi was due to the negligence of the Delhi government," Vijender Gupta, the leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, said at a press conference. Gupta said that the AAP was "insensitive" to the plight of the sanitation workers, saying the latest incident proved the allegation. "These workers are from Dalit families, but their tragic death due to poisonous gas has again made it clear that the Delhi government is not serious about saving lives of manual scavengers from these accidents, their rehabilitation and improving the condition of working," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Pakistan has set up a committee to determine lunar dates of religious festivals through a scientific method and end confusion in dates related to moon-sighting by clerics. "The five-member committee will finalize the calendar to indicate the exact dates of Ramadan, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha and Moharram for the next five years with 100 per cent accuracy, Fawad Chaudhry, Minister for Science and Technology, said on his twitter account on Tuesday, quoting an official notification. The committee will replace the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee for sighting of the moon, Chaudhry said. The minister had earlier questioned the large amount of money spent on moon sighting every year, saying that the Ruet-i-Hilal committee should carry out the sighting voluntarily, Geo reported. The minister had said up to Rs 4 million (USD 28,250) were spent on the moon-sighting procedure every year, and that it was time to utilise science and technology to end the controversy, the report said. The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee is headed by a top cleric comprising religious men and has been till now determining dates for all the major festivals. The dates of key events usually creates confusion as traditional clerics insist on sighting of the moon for every month with naked eyes and often the sky is cloudy that leads to different dates at different places for the same festival. This year, Ramadan started in north-western area of Pakistan on Monday where a local moon-sighting body of clerics announced that the moon for the month-long fasting was sighted, whereas the holy period in the rest of country began on Tuesday. However, religious clerics expressed displeasure at the formation of a committee and warned the government to not interfere in religious matters. Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee chairman Mufti Muneebur Rehman urged Prime Minister Imran Khan stop his minister from talking on such matters. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) Wednesday apprehended 22 Indian fishermen off the Gujarat coast, said an official of a fishermen's association. Two days ago, the PMSA had detained 34 Indian fishermen off the Gujarat coast. The latest batch of fishermen, along with their boats, were caught near the international maritime boundary line (IMBL) in the Arabian Sea, said Manish Lodhari, secretary of the Porbandar-based National Fishworkers' Forum (NFF). The PMSA seized four fishing boats during the operation near the IMBL off the Gujarat coast Wednesday morning, said Lodhari. On May 6, as many as 34 fishermen, who sailed from Porbandar on six boats for fishing, were apprehended by the PMSA for allegedly straying into the neighbouring country's territorial waters. "Now, we have learned that another 22 fishermen were apprehended by the PMSA today morning near the IMBL alleging our fishermen had ventured into the Pakistan side during fishing," Lodhari said. The captured fishermen and their boats will be taken to the Karachi port by the PMSA, he said. Lodhari claimed that Pakistani maritime agencies were capturing Indian fishermen at regular intervals near the IMBL. The PMSA's action comes close on heels of Pakistan's "goodwill gesture" of releasing 100 Indian fishermen, mostly from Gujarat, just last month. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Armenias Ministry of Health with the support of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the United Kingdom, launched the free WEB-RADR SAV mobile smartphone app. Armenian Health Minister Arsen Torosyan said that the app will help local users to learn about the side effects of drugs or their adverse reactions. He said the patients who will download the app will be able to report adverse drug reactions they have noticed to the Center for Drug and Medical Technology Expertise. "This simple tool allows the patients to report on the side effects of drugs, track previously reported information and receive official news and alerts about drugs that interest consumers," ARKA cited Torosyan as saying. A plane flown by a subsidiary of Air France heading from Paris to Mumbai has made an emergency landing in central Iran. The Airbus A340 flown by the low-cost carrier Joon landed in the city of Isfahan on Wednesday. Joon said in a statement the plane, operating as flight number AF218, landed out of precaution over a malfunctioning ventilation circuit. Iran's state-run IRNA agency said local authorities are providing services to passengers, all of whom were in good health. It wasn't immediately clear when the flight would take off. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) PayPal India has introduced 'OneTouch' experience using Google Smart Lock for its users in India that will allow them to stay logged onto the digital payments platform in a secure manner. India is the first market where the feature will be integrated with Google Smart Lock, Paypal India said in a statement. Users can register their Android device with PayPal and stay logged into the platform for all subsequent PayPal purchases on that device. This removes the hassle of repeatedly needing to log in and thereby, offering a frictionless payments experience, it added. "Consumers once logged in will still need to go through the two-factor authentication step to complete the transaction as per applicable regulations," it noted. With One Touch, consumers will also not need to retrieve their credit and debit card details to make purchases on their smartphones. "The integration with Google Smart Lock will enable greater convenience while maintaining security, by keeping their phones or tablets locked when it is not with them and thereby reducing the possibility of fraud," the statement said. Narsi Subramanian, Director (Growth) at PayPal India, said, as payment systems evolve, it is essential for platforms to simplify the process and render better user experiences for consumers while paying online. "At the same time, it is critical that customers feel secure in making their transactions as well. The One Touch feature along with Google Smart Lock addresses both of the above and aligns with our vision of offering a frictionless payments experience," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The peacekeeping today is in the domain of a "vaguely defined no-man's land", India has said at the UN, underscoring that responding to new security challenges requires a willingness to adapt abilities to meet the emerging realities. Speaking at the UN Security Council open debate on UN Peacekeeping Operations: Training and Capacity Building, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin said Tuesday that training was not only a pre-requisite to fulfil mandates, but a must to ensure safety and security in difficult environments. He said while operational concepts for such objectives are being put in place, it was also necessary to have properly equipped and well-trained personnel to meet expectations of deployment in challenging environments to fulfil a range of mandates. "Peacekeeping today is in the domain of a vaguely defined no-man's land. It lies somewhere between trying to keep the peace in fragile environments and trying to enforce the maintenance of peace, where there is none to keep," he said. "Responses to new security environments cannot be by merely ratcheting up traditional methodologies. They require a willingness to adapt abilities to meet emerging realities," as envisaged in the Secretary Generals Action for Peace Initiative, Akbaruddin said. Rephrasing a well-known military adage to suit current peacekeeping environments, he said "the more peacekeepers sweat in times of peace, the less they bleed in situations of conflict". India, one of the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, said that to ensure performance in peacekeeping, the UN Secretariat needs to carry out realistic assessment of contingents being selected and deployed in the mission area. Troop competencies need to be a critical requirement of selection criteria, Akbaruddin said. He said accountability of Troop Contributing Countries should entail adherence to training plans, including pre-deployment and in mission training, so that key mission tasks are not left to "learning on the job". Akbaruddin also stressed that capacity building and training benchmarks relating to prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA), gender sensitivity, requirements of conduct and discipline, environmental standards were key ingredients. Last year, India commenced funding of the UN's 'Pipeline to Peacekeeping Command Programme' focussing on conduct and discipline. Over a period of three years, this programme will help develop the capacity of future commanders and managers to lead by example and raise awareness of UN standards of conduct among personnel, Akbaruddin said. He said India also welcomes the initiative of Mobile Training Teams (MTTs) and Training of Trainers (TOTs) by pooling instructors from member states as they are an innovative effort to impart training to new Troop Contributing Countries and sharing experiences with minimum financial implications. Addressing the open debate, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said that "notable progress" had been made in training 'blue helmets' and others who serve in some of the most dangerous places on earth, but "much still needs to be done". He said better training for peacekeepers being deployed to increasingly hostile environments was a "necessary and strategic" investment which can also save lives. Guterres said that beyond preparation, training improves performance. "As we know, improved performance, reduces fatalities. As such training is a necessary and strategic investment in peacekeeping - and is a shared responsibility between Member States and the Secretariat," he said. Guterres said more mobile teams were needed from member states, and to encourage more women leaders, a "talent pipeline specifically for senior women military officers is under development". He said continued support through government funding was "essential", noting the "encouraging" downward trend in allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse in peacekeeping missions. India employs its UN peacekeeping experience to partner with other member states in capacity building initiatives in a very tangible manner, Akbaruddin said, citing the example of the recent successful co-deployment initiative with Kazakhstan in United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). India's Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK) conducts mission specific pre-deployment training to ensure the highest standards of performance for the troops being deployed, he said. It also conducts international courses based on UN guidelines, with the focus on building capacity for Military Observers, Contingent Officers, Staff & Logistics Officers and Female Officers. India has also recently concluded a field training exercise on UN peacekeeping with 18 African countries, with plans to do more. The UN chief also noted that "training gaps remain in critical areas such as weapons handling, first aid, human rights and protection issues". Akbaruddin urged member states to consider "increased funding, in-kind contributions of equipment" and proving more trainers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Congress general secretary Apsara Reddy on Wednesday claimed that people were planning to oust Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power as his NDA government "completely failed" on several fronts. Reddy also criticised Modi over his recent remarks against former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. "People are clearly designing the 'Pradhamantri Hatao Yojana' (remove PM scheme), as the NDA government has completely failed on several fronts," she told reporters here in Goa. "The way a woman like (Congress general secretary) Priyanka Gandhi is attacked, it should not be encouraged in a democratic set up. Also, what Modi said about late PM Rajiv Gandhi shows India in poor light in front of the entire world," the Congress leader said. Modi in a rally on Saturday targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale issue and said "your father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as 'Bhrashtachari No 1' (corrupt number 1)". Taking a jibe at a recent 'non-political' interview of Prime Minister Modi taken by actor Akshay Kumar, Reddy said, "When the country is facing issues like poverty and unemployment, our PM speaks about eating mangoes, that too with a Canadian citizen (Kumar)." She also demanded an apology from Goa Deputy Chief Minister Vijai Sardesai's statement that his Goa Forward Party will "weaponise" the youth if clauses like domicile in government jobs are diluted. Responding to a question on dilution of domicile clause by the Goa University, Sardesai on Tuesday said, "We are willing to go anywhere to protect the interests of Goans. And if our government has made a mistake, then we will weaponise them (youth) to ensure that Goanness is protected." Condemning the remarks, Reddy said, "Vijai wants to weaponise the youth. It is against the culture and values of Goa. Goa is about togetherness,Goa is celebrated for its peace-loving culture, the tourism (business) is so big here."She said Sardesai's remarks showed that they were trying to create an atmosphere of "fear" in the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The petition on which activist advocates Indira Jaising and Anand Grover as also their NGO, Lawyers Collective, were Wednesday issued notices by the Supreme Court was based on the 2016 orders of the Centre by which the NGO's licence was suspended and later cancelled for alleged FCRA violation. The two orders -- of May 31 and November 27, 2016 -- were passed by the competent authority in the Ministry of Home Affairs on a complaint filed in 2015 accusing Jaising and the NGO of misutilising the funds received under Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act. Licence of the NGO was cancelled permanently by the government for alleged violation of FCRA in November 2016 and Jaising had then termed the centre's action as "preposterous". The Home Ministry had taken cognisance of the letter written by Jaipur resident Raj Kumar Sharma who in August 2015 had sought inquiry against Lawyers Collective for receiving huge sums as donations from foreign donors like Ford Foundation and Open Society Foundation of George Soros. The letter had claimed that the Lawyers Collective, an NGO run by Indira Jaising and her husband Anand Grover, received Rs 28.5 crore foreign donation since 2006, in which Rs.7.2 crore was received from Ford Foundation USA, Rs.4.1 crore was from highly controversial, 'regime change' US-based donor i.e. Open Society Foundation. It had stated that the data collected through RTI shows that Lawyers Collective started receiving money from controversial regime change organisation like 'Lavi Strauss foundation', USA and 'Foundation open society institute', Switzerland after Jaising in 2008-09 became Additional Solicitor General of India. After the notice was issued by the Supreme Court on Wednesday, Jaising, Grover and Lawyers Collective said they were "deeply disturbed by the turn of events". They said they are being "victimised" as Jaising took up the cause of a sacked woman employee of the apex court who had levelled allegations against Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi of sexual harassment which was rejected by an In-House Inquiry Committee on May 6. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Renowned academician Dr N R Madhava Menon, pioneer of Indian legal education, died at a private hospital here due to age-related ailments, family sources said Wednesday. The Padmashri recipient was 84 and survived by wife and son. "He was undergoing treatment for the past one week for age-related ailments at a private hospital here. He left us around 11.30 PM yesterday," a source close to the family told PTI. The last rites of Menon were held at Shanti Kavadam, public crematorium here Wednesday with full state honours. Neelakanta Ramakrishna Madhava Menon revolutionised the field of legal by setting up among others, the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru, besides conceptualising the five year LLB course in place of the three year course. Known as the Father of modern legal in India, Menon, who was born in 1935, obtained his BSc and BL degrees from Kerala University after which he enrolled as an Advocate in Kerala High Court in 1956 at the age of 21. After completing his MA from Punjab University, and LLM and PhD from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Menon moved to academics and joined the AMU as a faculty in 1960. Later he moved to Delhi University in 1965 and headed the prestigious Campus Law Centre. In 1986, Menon shifted to Bengaluru at the invitation of Bar Council of India to set up NLSIU and served as its Founding Vice-Chancellor for 12 years. Later, the West Bengal government headed by the late Jyothi Basu invited him to establish a similar law school in Kolkata. This led to the establishment of West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences where he served as the Vice-Chancellor from 1998 to 2003. Menon was also the founding Director of National Judicial Academy, Bhopal. He was a member of the Law Commission of India, the Committee on Criminal Justice Reform and the Committee on Restructuring of Higher in India. Author of over a dozen books on legal education, legal profession, legal aid, judicial training and administration of justice, he won several awards, including the fourth highest Indian civilian award of Padma Shri in 2003. He was also conferred the Living Legend of Law Award by the International Bar Association in 1994. Condoling his death, President of India Ram Nath Kovind tweeted, "Sorry to hear of the passing of Prof N R Madhava Menon, educationist, scholar and a pioneering spirit behind modern legal education in India, beginning with National Law School of India University, Bangalore. "My condolences to his family and countless students," the official Twitter account of the President read. Kerala Governor P Sathasivam and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan were among those who expressed grief at the passing away of Menon. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Congress on Wednesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was misleading the electorate with "hollow claims" of success of various schemes and dubbed him as a "king of advertisement and villain of development". Congress spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill said Modi focussed only on "event management" and ignored "nation management", alleging that he behaved "like a propaganda minister instead of prime minister". He said Modi's promises and claims are like a "mirage" which disappears when seen with the lens of reality. He alleged that the NDA government's flagship programme Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojna launched on May 1, 2016 has proved a "failure" and must serve as warning sign to people that Modi cannot and should not be trusted. "Outgoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi...who behaves less like a prime minister and more like a propaganda minister, is guilty of misleading the electorate of India with hollow claims of success of his government's schemes. "The prime minister had focused only on advertisement and rank 'zero' on development...The prime minister is a king of advertisement but a villain of development. That is a reality," Shergill told reporters. The Congress leader alleged the prime minister was not giving a report card of his work during his five-year rule as he knew it would be full of "red lines". "The prime minister in his speeches is only talking about Pakistan because he has done no work in Hindustan...The reality of the BJP government's five-year calendar is an expensive and empty cylinder. The Ujjwala scheme only filled 'gas' in PM Modi's speeches. PM Modi only believes in 'lights, camera but no action'," he said. Shergill said a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) noted in 2015-16 that households with LPG connections were using an average of 6.27 cylinders a year, but after the scheme was launched, the number came down to 5.6. "The BJP government has looted the poor and middle-class by raising the LPG gas cylinder price," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Political parties in Kashmir Wednesday demanded an immediate rollback of the toll tax being levied on vehicles on the SrinagarJammu National Highway, saying the move would put the people of the valley under duress. A newly constructed toll plaza on the four-lane highway at Sangam in south Kashmir's Anantnag district was recently made operational to collect toll tax from vehicles passing through it. In a statement, NC spokesperson Imran Dar urged the governor's administration to suspend the tax levied at the Charsoo toll plaza near Awantipora. "The highway is still incomplete with some bridges still under construction. The economic activity in Kashmir has hit its lowest ebb in the last four years and the decision of levying an exorbitant toll tax will inadvertently put the people under duress," Dar said. Expressing dismay over the decision, the NC spokesperson said it was "unjust and unfair" to levy taxes on people when the highway was not yet fully functional. "The state government must do an immediate review of the rates that are being levied on different vehicles at the newly inaugurated toll plaza. We therefore urge the governor administration to defer imposing the toll tax," Dar said. The PDP also pitched for the exemption of toll tax being levied on the vehicles in south Kashmir, stating that such a measure would hit the already economically downtrodden people hard. The party's vice-president Abdul Rahman Veeri said people from south Kashmir in general, and from Kulgam and Anantnag districts in particular, were bearing the brunt of such a measure as private as well as the government employees have to pass through the toll plaza at Charsoo and they were being asked to pay every day. "The government must exempt the people of south Kashmir and those employees who will have to report everyday to their duties and for that reason have to pass through the toll plaza. This is nothing but an octroi being levied on the people's movement. The government has to roll it back," Veeri said. Former legislator from north Kashmir's Langate constituency Sheikh Abdul Rashid also sought a rollback of the decision. "The move is an indirect attack on the special status of state and also a brazen attempt to further weaken the state economy. Paying taxes is no doubt duty of every citizen but first government needs to introspect the fact that J-K is passing through turmoil since long and government has itself failed miserably to provide better roads to the people of state," Rashid said. He said before giving the NHAI permission to collect the toll tax, the government should have taken the consent of the state legislature and "by not doing so, the Centre is trying to impose its writ on the state in violation to the special status J-K enjoys," he said. Former IAS officer Shah Feasal, who quit his job and recently floated his political outfit Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Movement, also sought a deferment of the move. In a statement, Faesal hit out at the government for first closing the highway to civilian traffic for two days to allow smooth movement of security forces and then levying a heavy road tax "without realising the impact it would have on the local economy". He called upon the government to bring in clarity as to how this new tax will be implemented in view of the concessions given to the state under the GST by which toll is to be collected at Lakhanpur only. Faesal asked the government to understand the local sensitivities "in view of the ongoing turmoil and not make policies that are seen as deliberate attempts to harass Kashmiris". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Results of Lok Sabha polls will make it clear who is Duryodhana and who is Arjuna, Delhi BJP leader Vijender Gupta said Wednesday, hitting out Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi for her remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On a day when Priyanka held road shows in Delhi, Gupta, the Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly, expressed confidence that the BJP is going to retain all seven Lok Sabha seats in the national capital as people of the city want to see Modi as prime minister for another five years. Slamming Priyanka for her comments against Modi, Gupta said people of Delhi will give a befitting reply to Congress in the election. Attacking the prime minister at a rally in Ambala on Tuesday, Priyanka compared him with 'Duryodhana', the villain in epic Mahabharata. "This Lok Sabha election is like Mahabharata of democracy. On May 23, the results of the election will make it clear who is Duryodhana and who is Arjuna," Gupta told PTI in an interview. Gupta is part of the city BJP's core team which is strategising on the party's election campaign in the capital. Delhi goes to polls on May 12. He said like in most parts of the country, Modi will receive "unprecedented" support from people of the city as well, adding both AAP and Congress will face severe drubbing in the polls in Delhi. "Modi ji is talking about employment for youths of the entire country, but they (Opposition leaders) are talking about their own employment. "For the first time, the entire Opposition is fighting for their survival in this election and not for the people of country..there is unprecedented Modi wave in country," he said. Gupta, who is an MLA from Rohini, claimed that after the May 23 Lok Sabha results, the 'Modi wave' will turn out to be as the "biggest tsunami of Independent India". He said that once the results of Lok Sabha election are declared, the alliance of opposition parties will collapse. "Once upon a time, it used to be said that BJP could not win more than 180-185 seats, but it turned out to be wrong... we had set a target of 272 and we achieved it. "In this election, we are contesting elections with the target of more than 300 seats and we will definitely win," Gupta alleged. The leader of Opposition also attacked the Aam Aadmi Party for its "desperation" to firm up an alliance with the Congress in Delhi. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With the Lok Sabha elections over in Maharashtra, the BJP-led central and state governments have conspired to render "kolis" residing in south Mumbais "gaothans" homeless citing threat to the Navy, a Congress legislator alleged Wednesday. Mumbai voted on April 29 in the Lok Sabha elections. Congress MLC Bhai Jagtap told reporters that the Geeta Nagar, Sundar Nagar and Azad Nagar "gaothans" (old settlements) are located on the naval base here and that the question of their shifting has been raised. "But the naval base came afterwards. The koli (local fishermen) brothers have been living here since earlier times. The BJP and Shiv Sena are now raising doubts that the slum may pose a threat to the Navy," Jagtap alleged. The MLC said before the elections, the locals were promised their homes would not be touched to seek their votes. "But with the elections over, the government has conspired and taken steps to drive the people out," Jagtap charged. The legislator said Union minister Nitin Gadkari had at an event said people in the BPT area here would not be shifted elsewhere. "But residents living in BPT (port trust) buildings were issued notices a day later," Jagtap alleged. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in Iraq yesterday, a surprise trip that comes amid escalating tensions with Iran. Pompeo abruptly cancelled talks in Germany and made a lengthy detour from a European tour to spend four hours in Iraq, where he met both President Barham Saleh and Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi. "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country," Pompeo told reporters after the meetings. "The reason were going is youve all seen the reports that there have been escalating information that indicates that Iran is escalating their activity," the Secretary of State said, according to a readout released by the State Department. In addition, Pompeo said he expressed U.S. support for Iraqi sovereignty. Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu has sought a report on the allocation of airport slots vacated by Jet Airways to other airlines, an official source said on Wednesday. In the wake of crisis-hit Jet Airways suspending operations, the ministry decided to allocate the vacant slots at the airports in the national capital and Mumbai to other carriers. The move is part of larger efforts to increase capacity amid recent surge in airfares. According to the source, the minister has asked Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola for a report on the Jet Airways' slots that have been allocated to other airlines so far. The report is to be submitted by May 11. The development also comes against the backdrop of concerns raised in certain quarters about the process being followed in temporary allocation of Jet Airways' slots. The slots are being given to other airlines on an interim basis and decisions are taken by a committee set up by the ministry. Jet Airways has more than 440 slots at Mumbai and Delhi airports, a ministry official said last month. As per the source, the minister has asked the secretary to ensure that all slot allocations have been made on an interim basis by following all applicable guidelines in a transparent manner. The source also said the minister has directed that a final decision on allocation of Jet Airways slots should not be taken till conclusion of the resolution plan that is being worked out by the airline's lenders. The State Bank of India-led consortium of domestic lenders to Jet Airways has already sought bids for the ailing airline, which shuttered operations on April 17 after it ran out of cash. The list of final bidders is likely to be finalised this week. On Wednesday, Jet Airways gave a clarification to the stock exchanges regarding reports that Atmosphere Airlines has submitted an expression of interest along with Naresh Goyal and four other companies. "The bidding process is initiated by and managed by SBI Capital Markets Ltd under a resolution plan undertaken by a consortium of domestic lenders led by State Bank of India. "The company is not involved in the bidding process and has no information with regard to same and is accordingly not in a position to comment," the airline said in a filing. Naresh Goyal is the founder of Jet Airways. Earlier on Wednesday, Goyal's daughter Namrata Goyal said that her father is not part of any consortium. "I'm Naresh Goyal's daughter and this is to clarify that hes not part of any consortium and this information is completely misleading and mischievous (sic)," she said in a tweet. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Dissatisfied with the traffic police for only challaning the use of pressure horns and not removing them from vehicles, the Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked it about the steps being taken to ensure that such devices are not used. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice A J Bhambhani perused a status report filed by Delhi Traffic Police which stated that it has been issuing challans to several thousand vehicles, including two wheelers, for use of pressure horns, and said "we are not satisfied by it". The high court said that in a judgement of 2007 it held that police has the powers to remove such illegal devices from the vehicles. The March 26, 2007 judgement had said: "The Government of NCT of Delhi and Delhi Police which are main enforcing agencies would be entitled to remove the pressure horn or any other offending horns from the vehicles, as if these offending parts are permitted to be used on the vehicles, there is every likelihood of offence being repeatedly committed." The court directed the ACP (Traffic) from Delhi Police HQ to show "how and in what manner" the directions given in the 2007 judgement were being implemented and listed the matter for further hearing on July 24. It also directed that the ACP (Traffic) to be present before the court on the next date with an updated status report on the action taken in accordance with law against persons using such devices. The court was hearing a PIL by an NGO, Justice for Rights Foundation, and a law student Prateek Sharma seeking a ban on manufacture, sale and use of various kinds of pressure horns, speakers and modified silencers, including those in Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycles, in the national capital. Advocate Harpreet Singh Hora, appearing for the petitioners, argued that the directions given in the 2007 judgement of the high court were not being implemented as the traffic police was only issuing challans for use of the pressure horns and letting the offending vehicle go without removing the device. He said this would lead to the offence being repeated again. Subsequently, the court asked the traffic police to indicate how it was implementing the 2007 judgement and to file an updated status report on the action taken against use of such devices. According to the petition, loud sound producing equipments cause health problems including stress, headache, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, blood pressure variations, cardiac disease and digestive disorders. The plea, has contended that the vehicular noise pollution menace was rampant in areas like the North Campus here, specifically Malka Ganj, Hudson Lane, Vijay Nagar, Gupta Colony, Chhatra Marg and other areas in and around the Delhi University (DU). (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rabri Devi, former Bihar chief minister and wife of jailed RJD president Lalu Prasad Yadav, on Wednesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "jallad" (executioner) and a person with a "khoonkhar maansikta (vicious mindset)". Devi, who is the vice-president of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, made the remarks on Twitter, where she alleged that Modi had been behind "abduction and murder of many judges and journalists". The former chief minister made the acerbic remarks while referring to a comment by Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who had compared the prime minister to Duryodhana -- the antagonist of the epic Mahabharata. "Priyanka did the wrong thing by calling him Duryodhana. She should have spoken a language different in tone and tenor, the RJD leader said. Her remarks drew sharp criticism from the ruling NDA. Senior BJP leader and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi deplored her remarks, calling it a mark of "panic" within the Opposition which, he claimed, was facing an imminent defeat in the polls. "Rahul Gandhi is calling Modi a rioter, Priyanka is comparing him to Duryodhana, Mamata Banerjee is speaking of a tight slap.... Rabri Devi's remarks are part of the same series," Sushil Modi said here in a statement. "The Opposition is jittery as it has sensed the mood of the public in the four phases of general elections. The message has been loud and clear the people want Modi once again." JDU MLC Neeraj Kumar, also condemned Devi for her comments and tweeted: "Failed to educate two sons properly and the Mahabharata between them is out in the open. The foul language stems from frustration. It would be interesting to see reactions after May 23 when the election results are out. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) With polling for two more phases of Lok Sabha polls left, Congress President Rahul Gandhi Wednesday said time for change has come and that "time was up" for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Gandhi claimed that young and the old are voting in large numbers for NYAY, the Congress' "Nyuntam Aay Yojna" (minimum income guarantee scheme) to eradicate poverty, noting it showed how powerful the idea was. The Congress has announced that under the scheme, the party, if voted to power, will give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent poorest families in the country. "Across India, it's not just young people who are coming out in large numbers to vote for NYAY; older more experienced voters too have understood how powerful the idea is. "Modi Ji, your time is up. The time for change has come," he said on Twitter. The Congress had announced last month 'Ab Hoga Nyay' as its battle cry for the Lok Sabha polls and launched a campaign centred around the theme of 'justice' while alluding to the party's proposed minimum income scheme. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Taking a swipe at the Congress after its president Rahul Gandhi tendered an unconditional apology for attributing 'chowkidar chor hai' remarks to the Supreme Court, the BJP on Wednesday said it showed the opposition party's "political bankruptcy". "Rahul Gandhi had to apologise to the Supreme Court for attributing lies to the Supreme Court. Congress is a habitual liar. This is political bankruptcy. This is desperation," BJP leader and Union Minister Prakash Javadekar told a press conference. The minister also listed out over 50 "abuses" which he alleged were hurled by the Congress and other opposition parties at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and claimed that the more they do so, the more seats BJP will win. "Congress has hurled 52 abusive words at us. It is doing so as it has run out of issues. Congress stands for loot and lies. We are raising relevant issues but the Congress is exhibiting its political bankruptcy. The more they hurl abuses at us, more seats we will win," Javadekar said. He said the Congress was "desperate" as it stands no chance to win people's confidence. "I am unable to understand the worst kind of behaviour by various political parties including the Congress. They are day in and day out cursing the PM, hurling abuses at him. "They are doing this out of sheer desperation and hatred for their leader because they understand that in front of Modi, they stand no chance to win public confidence. They are hurling casteist abuses. This is Congress culture. It is happening because we are discussing scams," the minister alleged. Javadekar, who is BJP's poll-incharge in Rajasthan, accused the Congress of institutionalising corruption and said there were a number of charges against former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. "When we started asking questions on Bofors, they said why are you talking about Rajiv Gandhi? He was our PM. During his time he justified the genocide of Sikhs, he made the worse kind of communal compromise, under Shah Bano's decision, Quattrocchi was allowed to flee and money went from his account to three undisclosed accounts. "Wikileaks has also mentioned Rajiv Gandhi as the main negotiator in a fighter aircraft deal. This is what is happening on ground," he claimed. The minister said his party has leadership and development as main planks in the ongoing elections while "all Congress has is abuses". "Gaaliyo ki loot machi hui hai. Kaun kitni badi gaali dega iski hor lagi hai (There is a competition among the opposition on who can mouth the worst kind of abuse)," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) After the Election Commission ordered repoll in 168 out of the 1,679 polling stations in West Tripura Lok Sabha seat, the opposition CPI(M) on Wednesday said it has filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking fresh election in the entire constituency. The Congress in the BJP-ruled state also claimed that it will move the apex court on Thursday with a similar prayer. Repoll in 168 polling stations across 26 of the 30 assembly segments under the Lok Sabha seat will be held on May 12, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sriram Taranikanti said. Polling in the constituency was held on April 11 and the CPI(M) and the Congress had demanded repoll in the entire constituency, alleging large-scale rigging by the BJP. "We had demanded fresh elections in West Tripura as most of the people could not vote due to rigging and violence by BJP cadres. Voters are frustrated with the EC's decision to hold repoll only in a few polling stations. We have filed a petition in the Supreme Court today seeking fresh election in the entire constituency," Left Front chairman Bijan Dhar said. CPI(M)'s West Tripura candidate Shankar Prasad Dutta filed the petition challenging the EC' decision of repolling only in 168 seats, Dhar told a press conference. State Congress president Pradyot Kishore Debburman said his party has prepared a draft petition and will file the case in the Supreme Court on Thursday. "The Returning Officer of West Tripura in his report had said voting was vitiated in 433 polling stations. Our petition will question how the EC overruled the RO's report and settled for repoll in 168 polling stations only," Debburman told reporters. Tripura BJP spokesperson Ashok Sinha said, "The EC is the judge and they have every right to declare re-polling." In his appeal to the parties and poll workers, state CEO Taranikanti said everyone should demonstrate during repolling on May 12 that "we can do it in a nice and positive environment." The EC had last week removed West Tripura District Magistrate Sandeep Namdeo Mahatme, who was also the Returning Officer of West Tripura Lok Sabha seat. Mahatme was replaced by East Tripura RO and District Magistrate of Dhalai, Vikash Singh. After allegations of rigging in West Tripura were raised, the EC had postponed voting in East Tripura, the other Lok Sabha seat in the state, to the third phase on April 23 from April 18, saying the prevailing law-and-order situation there is not conducive for holding free and fair poll. Special Election Observer Vinod Zutshi had come here late last month and examined footages recorded in webcams in the booths of West Tripura and other documents. He later submitted his report to the EC. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Election Commission has ordered a repoll at 168 polling stations out of 1,679 polling stations in West Tripura Lok Sabha constituency, an election official said Wednesday. Repoll in polling stations spread over 26 of the 30 assembly segments of the Lok Sabha constituency will be held on May 12, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Sriram Taranikanti said. Polling in the constituency was held on April 11 last and opposition CPI-M and the Congress had demanded repoll in the entire constituency, alleging large-scale rigging by the BJP during voting on April 11. Expressing dissatisfaction over the EC's decision, Congress vice-president Tapas Dey said, "We were surprised to find that repoll was ordered only in few polling stations. We have no other alternative but to move the Supreme Court." BJP spokesperson Ashok Sinha said, "EC is the judge and they have every right to declare re-polling." State secretary of the CPI-M Gautam Das said, We wanted fresh elections in the constituency. We are not satisfied with the EC order. Many voters who could not exercise their franchise in other polling stations of the constituency due to alleged rigging would be deprived."In his appeal to political parties, candidates, polling officials and police personnel, the CEO said they should demonstrate on May 12 that "We can do it in a nice and positive environment. Meanwhile, additional paramilitary contingents have started arriving in the state for deployment during the re- poll exercise. State election department officials said central forces would be deployed in all the polling booths. The CEO said webcams will be set up in all polling stations. The EC on Thursday had removed West Tripura District Magistrate Sandeep Namdeo Mahatme, who was the Returning Officer of West Tripura Lok Sabha seat. Mahatme was replaced by East Tripura RO and District Magistrate of Dhalai, Vikash Singh. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Right-wing activist Milind Ekbote has lodged a police complaint alleging that he and his supporters were beaten up by some 'cow vigilantes' over a minor dispute in Maharashtra's Pune district, an official said on Wednesday. The alleged incident took place at a temple premises in Zendewadi locality of Saswad area here around 10.30 pm on Tuesday when Ekbote, who is an accused in the Koregaon-Bhima violence case, went there to attend a programme, he said. Ekbote, who himself is known to be a supporter of cow vigilantes, lodged the complaint against 40 to 50 people and one Pandit Modak, who runs a 'gaushala' in the area, Saswad police station's inspector Annasaheb Gholap said. "Ekbote had written a post on his Facebook page against Modak in connection with the functioning of the his gaushala which apparently upset the latter. When Ekbote went to Zendewadi to attend a programme, Modak along with his supporters went there to seek an explanation from him over the post," Gholap said. "This led to an argument following supporters of both Ekbote and Modak indulged in a scuffle," he said. Some policemen who were already present in the temple premises immediately intervened and brought the situation under control, the official said. Later in the night, Ekbote reached the Saswad police station and lodged the complaint against Modak and 40 to 50 other people, Gholap said. Based on his complaint, the police registered a case against Modak and others under various Indian Penal Code Sections, including 146 (rioting) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), but no arrest has been made so far, he said. According to police, Ekbote and Modak worked together in the past, but due to some differences they parted ways and started functioning separately. Ekbote is currently out on bail in the Koregaon-Bhima violence case. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sweden's foreign ministry said Moscow had expelled two of its diplomats Wednesday, following a Swedish move to deny visas to two Russian envoys, in the latest blow to relations already shaken by a row over spying. The Swedish foreign ministry said Russia's decision followed Stockholm's refusal to extend one Russian diplomat's visa and deny the application for a diplomatic visa for another Russian citizen. "Russia has responded by asking two Swedish diplomats to leave Russia, which we regret," ministry spokeswoman Sofia Nahringbauer, told AFP. Nahringbauer said the ministry did not want to comment on whether Sweden would take any further actions. In late February Swedish authorities arrested a technology worker suspected of spying for Russia. Swedish security services said at the time they believed the person had been "recruited as an agent by a Russian intelligence officer posing as a diplomat in Sweden". A year ago, Swedish security police warned of the "high threat posed by foreign spies". "Russia poses the biggest intelligence threat to Sweden," the head of the Swedish security police's counter-intelligence unit, Daniel Stenling, said at the time. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Seeking to counter the BJP's Hindutva plank, hundreds of sadhus chanted "Jai Shree Ram" as they took part in a roadshow held on Wednesday by Congress veteran Digvijaya Singh, who is contesting the Lok Sabha poll from Bhopal seat in Singh along with religious leader Namdev Tyagi alias Computer Baba led the roadshow from Bhawani Chowk to Lal Parade ground, moving through main roads of the city, to seek votes. Several saffron and white robes-clad saints holding the Congress' and saffron flags shouted "Jai Shree Ram" while campaigning in support of Singh, who is pitted against BJP candidate Pragya Thakur, a Hindutva activist. Some seers participating in the roadshow said they want the Ram temple to be constructed in Ayodhya at the earliest. Some police personnel, both men and women, in plain clothes were seen sporting saffron 'gamchha' (a cloth worn around shoulders and neck) during the roadshow. On Tuesday, hundreds of sadhus trooped to the state capital to seek votes for Singh and campaign against Thakur. Computer Baba, who was recently appointed chairman of a river trust by the Congress government, on Tuesday said the BJP remained in power for five years but it failed to construct the Ram temple. "Ab Ram Mandir nahi toh Modi nahi (when there is no Ram Mandir then there should be no Narendra Modi too)," the self-styled godman said. Meanwhile, Thakur, who is an accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, released BJP's vision document here on Wednesday, promising all round development of the state capital Bhopal. BJP president Amit Shah will also hold a roadshow here in the evening. The Bhopal seat, which has been a stronghold of the BJP, will go to polls on May 12. Russia's President Vladimir Putin has sent a message of congratulations to the leaders of CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries, as well as the people of Georgia and Ukraine on Victory Day, the Kremlin press service reported. "Putin has sent congratulatory messages to the leaders and the people of Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, as well as the people of Georgia and Ukraine on the 74th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War," the message states. "On this great holiday, we remember with gratitude the unprecedented heroism of our compatriots, who defended the freedom of their homeland and saved the world from Nazi aggression," he noted. "We honor the heroes, who fought bravely against the invaders on the field of battle and worked selflessly on the home front. Our common and sacred duty is to treasure the memory of their heroic deeds and immeasurable sacrifice, to surround the veterans with care and attention," Putin said. The Russian leader expressed his gratitude to all veterans of the Great Patriotic War and wish them good health, many years of life, peace and prosperity. Financial technology startup Samco Securities Ltd has set up its first research, analytics and development centre here, at an outlay of Rs 20 crore, a top official said Wednesday. The Research and Development Centre set up at the famous Old Mahabalipuram Road (IT Corridor) would focus on building products that can hand-hold customers and automate their investment process. The products would be built using machine learning and artificial intelligence for customers. "India is a recognised technology innovation hub with highly-sought after engineering talent.. the Research and Development Centre in Chennai is a step towards accelerating our R&D initiatives," company Founder-CEO, Jimeet Modi told reporters here. "The investment made by SAMCO in the Research and Development Centre in Chennai is a reflection of our commitment towards accelerating our innovation. The Centre will work towards innovation in three aspects -- people, processes and product. The centre will also house a team which will maintain existing product lines", Samco Securities, Chief Technology Officer, Pratik Adani said. The Research and Development Centre would have more than 10,000 square foot space to accomodate nearly 200 engineers. The Mumbai-based company had raised USD 7.5 million (Rs 49 crore) in a Series B funding round from existing promoters and London-based investment management firm Bay Capital Investment Partners. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court Employees' Welfare Association on Wednesday informally deliberated upon the controversies surrounding the apex court -- allegation of sexual harassment against Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and the sacking of court officials for alleged tampering with court orders. During the lunch break, court officials gathered in the apex court premises and expressed concern over the maligning of the institution due to the two recent incidents. The gathering was addressed by the President of the employees' welfare association, B A Rao. Some of the staff, who wished not to be named, said it was an informal gathering as there was a lot of resentment among them as the two incidents pertain to the reputation of the apex judiciary. They were heard saying that an in-House Inquiry Committee has already given a clean-chit to the CJI and there was no need for the employees to feel any kind of discomfort or apprehension. The issue of arrest of two employees for alleged tampering of court orders was also deliberated upon in the meet. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Wednesday made it clear that it will not extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a "free hand" to Prateek Hajela, coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC. The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many persons, who had objected to inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC are not coming forward before panels which are dealing with such complaints. The draft was published on July 30, 2018 in which the names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold. The Supreme Court Wednesday made it clear that it will not extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a "free hand" to Prateek Hajela, the Assam NRC coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC. The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many persons, who had objected to inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC are not coming forward before panels which are dealing with such complaints. The apex court had on April 10 asked Hajela to take steps to minimise the "inconvenience" of the people who have filed claims before authorities after being left out in the draft NRC. Hajela had submitted before the court that the citizenship claims of left out persons were being verified on the basis of "family tree" and land records. Verification of claims on the basis of family tree was being conducted near the place where most of the relatives of the claimant are residing, he had said. On February 5, the apex court had observed that the Centre is "hell bent" on stalling the Assam NRC work while rapping it for seeking suspension of the process during the polls citing non-availability of security forces. The draft Assam NRC was published on July 30, 2018 in which the names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold. The first draft of Assam NRC was published on the intervening night of December 31, 2017 and January 1 in accordance with the top court's direction. Names of 1.9 crore people out of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated then. Assam, which had faced influx of people from Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state to have an NRC, first prepared in 1951. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court Wednesday sought the Centre's response on a plea of Essar Power MP Ltd seeking to surrender the coal mines won by it in the 2015 auctions and refund of money paid to the government. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta issued notice to the Centre on the appeal of Essar Power which has challenged the Delhi High Court's decision disallowing its plea. Essar had won Tokisud North coal mine in Jharkhand in the auctions carried out by the Centre in 2015-16. In 2015, the power company had moved the high court protesting against a change in regulations made by the Centre and alleged that it was done after the conclusion of auction proceedings. The company had submitted that it wanted to surrender the coal block and hence, its deposit be returned. The firm had also sought a direction that the government be restrained from encashing bank guarantee of Rs 264 crore. The plea was rejected by the high court. The apex court, while issuing the notice to the Centre on the plea of the firm, said the encashment of bank guarantee would be subject to the final outcome of the appeal of Essar Power MP ltd. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Senior lawyers and Anand Grover Wednesday cried foul over a notice to them and their NGO, Lawyers Collective, on a plea alleging FCRA violation by them, and said they are "deeply disturbed by the turn of events". They said they are being "victimised" as Jaising took up the cause of a sacked woman employee of the apex court who had levelled allegations of sexual harassment against Chief Justice of India which were rejected by an In-House Inquiry Committee on May 6. The notice was issued to them on a plea seeking investigation and lodging of FIR under various provisions of law for allegedly violating rules relating to receipt and utilisation of foreign funds. Jaising and Grover, founders of Lawyers Collective, have been asked by a bench headed by the CJI to respond to a plea by an NGO, Lawyers Voice. "It is obvious to us that this is victimisation on account of Ms Jaising taking up the issue of the procedure adopted in relation to the allegations of sexual harassment against the Chief Justice of India by a former employee of the which Ms Jaising has done so in her capacity as a concerned citizen, a senior member of the bar and a women's rights advocate, without commenting on the merits of the allegations," Jaising, Grover and Lawyers Collective said in a press statement. They said that since Jaising, a former Additional Solicitor General, has been "publicly vocal" on the due process with regard to the conduct of the In-House Inquiry Committee headed by Justice S A Bobde, the CJI should have recused himself from hearing the matter. "Considering that Ms Jaising has been publicly vocal on the issue of due process of law in relation to the conduct of the in-house inquiry, the Chief Justice ought to have recused himself from hearing the matter," the statement said. They also said that the plea by Lawyers Voice was filed in the apex court on May 6 and it came be listed before the CJI's court on Wednesday "contrary to the circulars and notifications" of the top court. "We are deeply disturbed by the turn of events. It needs to be noted that the petition came to be filed on May 6, 2019. It appears from the record on the Supreme Court's website that the petition was filed on May 6 at 3.19 PM. There were a number of objections, which were removed on May 7," they said. "It further appears that though the matter was not orally mentioned on May 7, it came to be listed in court number 1 on May 8, contrary to the circulars and notifications of the in respect of listing," the statement said. "It has been brought to our knowledge that during the proceedings today, though the petitioner's advocate did not orally seek any interim orders, the court has passed an order to the effect that the pendency of the petition will not come in the way of government agencies proceeding in the matter," the statement said. They said it appeared from the oral submissions by the advocate appearing for the petitioner that the plea concerns the alleged 'mis-utilisation' of foreign funding under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 (FCRA). The statement said that Lawyers Collective has no foreign funding since 2016 when its FCRA registration was suspended and later, cancelled by the Union Home Ministry. "We wish to state that LC (Lawyers Collective) has no foreign funding since 2016, when its FCRA registration was suspended and subsequently cancelled by the Ministry of Home Affairs on false and illegal grounds. LC has taken up appropriate legal proceedings against the cancellation in accordance with law. In any event, we strongly dispute any allegation of mis-utilisation of any funds," the statement said. "We will respond to the petition, as and when we served the same. We are seeking competent legal advice and our future course of action will be decided in due course," it said. BJP chief Amit Shah, flanked by the partys nominee for the Bhopal Lok Sabha seat, Pragya Singh Thakur, held a roadshow late Wednesday evening, three days ahead of the high-stake elections in the Madhya Pradesh capital. Former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Madhya Pradesh BJP president Rakesh Singh also took part in the roadshow organised to seek voter support for Thakur. The 49-year-old Hindutva activist, an accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, is taking on Congress veteran Digvijaya Singh in Bhopal, a bastion of the saffron party for the last two decades. The BJP leaders, who were in an open vehicle, started their roadshow from Peer Gate amid tight police security at around 9 pm, nearly three hours behind the original schedule. The 4.5km roadshow ended at Nadra Bus stand in the middle of the old city, home to a sizeable Muslim population, at around 9.45 pm. A large number of BJP workers, clad in saffron T- shirts, waved the partys flag as chants of 'Har Har Modi', 'Modi Modi' and 'Vande Mataram' rented the air. They also shouted 'Pragya didi sant hai, Diggy tera anth hai' (Sister Pragya is a saint and Diggy is staring at his defeat). In the morning, Singh, accompanied by religious leader Computer Baba, held his own roadshow in which hundreds of white and saffron robed sadhus took part. The sadhus have descended on Bhopal on a call given by Computer Baba. During the roadshow, they chanted 'Jai Shri Ram' and demanded construction of a Ram temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya at the earliest. Bhopal is among the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that will vote on May 12 in the third phase of elections in the state. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Noting that many Congress leaders are pitching for making him Chief Minister out of "affection", Siddaramaiah Wednesday ruled out the possibility of any change in the top post held by H D Kumaraswamy of the JD(S). Speaking to reporters in Hubballi, Siddaramaiah said "They (Congress men) are expressing their opinion, but is it possible now? The seat is not vacant now, Kumaraswamy is chief minister. How can I become the CM?" "Some may be saying things out of affection towards me. Is it wrong to say that?" he asked. With a section of congress clamouring for Siddaramaiah becoming the CM once again, Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara and Pradesh Congress President Dinesh Gundu Rao met Kumaraswamy Wednesday, during which they reportedly discussed the developments. According to congress sources, Kumaraswamy asked them to restrain party leaders from publicly making statements on the post of Chief Minister as it was embarrassing the government and himself. A stung JD(S),in its reaction, ruled out any possibility of Siddaramaiah becoming Chief Minister immediately, citing lack of numbers in the assembly. Terming the Congress' leaders' demand unreasonable, JDS state president H Viswhanath said when Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy was efficiently performing his responsibilities, there was no question of Siddaramaiah becoming CM. None could predict about things happening in a particular manner, he said, adding there was currently no way for Siddaramaiah to become Chief Minister immediately, given the numbers in the assembly. "There is no way, even if all the like-minded (MLAs) join together also it is 79....," he added. Vishwanath was reacting to growing clamour within a section of the Congress, pitching for Siddaramaiah becoming the CM once again. To a query on whether there would be changes after the Lok Sabha poll results are out on May 23, Siddaramaiah, who is the Congress Legislature Party leader, said "there are no indications of any changes. Why will there be any change? Kumaraswamy is the coalition government's chief minister." Asked if JD(S) would give up the CM's post to Congress, Siddaramaiah said he cannot respond to such speculation. Rao told reporters they had invited the Chief Minister to campaign for the May 19 assembly by-polls in Chincholi and Kundgol. "High command has already decided...Rahul Gandhi (Congress President) and Deve Gowda (JDS patriarch) both have sat and discussed, also with other leaders (about Kumaraswamy as CM for full term), so in the present situation, that question (any change in CM) does not arise at all." "No one should make such statements and there is no need for it also," he added. Karnataka Home Minister M B Patil had on Tuesday made a pitch for Siddaramaiah "as chief minister again", but clarified that the present coalition government under Kumaraswamy would complete its full term. Patil's statement was in line with Chikkaballapura Congress MLA K Sudhakar's remarks on Monday that it would be good if Siddaramaiah becomes chief minister again. Talks about Siddaramaiah as chief minister once again have emerged amid reports that the Congress in Karnataka was preparing for assembly polls after the Lok Sabha election results, which party leaders have rubbished. However, there are discussions within political circles that any adverse results for the coalition in the Lok Sabha polls, which they fought in alliance, would have its implications on the Kumaraswamy-led government. In April, Siddaramaiah had asserted he was not a "political sanyasi" and was in active and added that Congress would form the government in Karnataka after the next assembly polls and he would become chief minister once again. Despite Siddaramaiah's clarification, Minister P T Parameshwar Naik of Congress Wednesday pitched for the coalition coordination chief as Chief Minister once again. Addressing an event at Mylara in Ballari district, he recalled the work done by Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister and said it was necessary for him to occupy the post once again in everyone's interest. All questions and doubts would be answered on May 23 when the Lok Sabha election results are declared, he said. He said nothing would happen to the coalition government for now and Kumaraswamy would continue as Chief Minister. The Karnataka assembly has 224 members, in which BJP has 104 MLAs, Congress-77, JD(S)-37, BSP(1), independent (1)(both supporting the ruling alliance), one KPJP, and one Speaker. Two seats are vacant, for which bypolls will be held on May 19. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Noting that many Congress leaders are pitching for making him the chief minister out of "affection", Siddaramaiah Wednesday ruled out the possibility of any change in the top post held by H D Kumaraswamy of the JD(S). "They (Congress men) are expressing their opinion, but is it possible now? The seat is not vacant now, Kumaraswamy is chief minister. How can I become the CM?" Siddaramaiah told reporters in Hubballi. "Some may be saying things, out of affection towards me. Is it wrong to say that?" he asked. To a query whether there would be changes after Lok Sabha poll results are out on May 23, the Congress Legislature Party leader said, "there are no indications of any changes. Why will there be any change? Kumaraswamy is the coalition government's chief minister." Asked if the JD(S) would give up the chief minister post to the Congress, Siddaramaiah said he cannot respond to such speculations. Karnataka Home Minister M B Patil had on Tuesday made a pitch for Siddaramaiah "as chief minister again", but clarified the present coalition government under Kumaraswamy would complete its full term. Patil's statement resonated with Chikkaballapura Congress MLA K Sudhakar's remarks on Monday that it would be good if Siddaramaiah becomes chief minister again. Talks about Siddaramaiah as chief minister once again have emerged amid reports that the Congress in Karnataka was preparing for assembly polls after the Lok Sabha election results, which the grand old party leaders have rubbished. However, there are talks within political circles that any adverse results for the coalition in the Lok Sabha polls, which they fought in alliance, would have its implications on the Kumaraswamy-led government. Asserting that he is not a "political sanyasi" and was in "active politics", Siddarmaiah had in April said the Congress would form the government in Karnataka after the next assembly polls, and he would become chief minister once again. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A Singapore Airlines plane, carrying 228 people, Wednesday made an emergency landing at the airport in the national capital after suffering a glitch with its nose wheel, an official said. The aircraft -- A380-800 -- from Singapore suffered some problem with its nose wheel and was towed away to the terminal, according to a passenger onboard. The official said full emergency was declared for SG 406 Singapore-Delhi flight having 228 people on board and the plane landed safely. According to the passenger, there was apparently "loss of steering capacity" for the plane, which also aborted landing once. The plane made a hard landing and stopped on the runway, he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The 11th meeting of the Intergovernmental Turkmen-Russian Commission for Economic Cooperation was held in Ashgabat on May 8. The Russian side was represented by Deputy Prime Minister Konstantin Chuichenko and Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin. The parties considered joint projects, issues of the activities of Russian companies in Turkmenistan, as well as prospects for cooperation in the industrial, construction, transport, oil and gas, gas chemical and electric power industries. The subject of cooperation between the relevant ministries and departments of the two countries and the process of implementing trade operations were touched upon. At the end of the meeting, a ceremony of signing bilateral documents, including the memorandum on the establishment of the Turkmen-Astrakhan joint council on entrepreneurship, was held, RIA Novosti reported. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh figure among the list of star campaigners for Bihar in the seventh and final phase of general elections. The list, submitted by AICC general secretary Motilal Vora to the Election Commission last week, was shared by the partys state unit here on Wednesday. While Rahul Gandhi has already held four rallies in the state since announcement of the polls, the others are yet to make an appearance in Bihar for poll campaign. Other prominent leaders whose names figure among the 40 star campaigners are Ghulam Nabi Azad, Shaktisinh Gohil, Tariq Anwar and Ranjeet Ranjan. Altogether eight Lok Sabha constituencies in Bihar will go to polls in the final phase for which voting will take place on May 19. Of these, the Congress is contesting Sasaram and Patna Sahib where former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar and actor- turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha are, respectively, the candidates. Kumar has represented Sasaram in the past but lost it to BJPs Chhedi Paswan in 2014. The sitting BJP MP is again in the fray. The seat was once considered the pocket borough of the Congress leaders father Babu Jagjivan Ram who had served as a Union minister and Deputy Prime Minister in his illustrious political career. Sinha is serving his second term as the MP from Patna Sahib, winning on both occasions as the candidate of the BJP which he quit last month. He is pitted against Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad who is making his Lok Sabha debut. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Rubbishing the BJP's claim that it was doing good in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, leaders of the opposition BSP-SP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh said on Wednesday that on the contrary, its prospects were improving day by day. "Our (electoral) prospects are improving...the prospects of the opposition alliance will further improve in the remaining two phases of Lok Sabha polls," BSP chief Mayawati said at joint rally with SP chief Akhilesh Yadav here. RLD chief Ajit Singh also addressed the rally at the Azamgarh Muslim Education and Welfare Trust ground. The BSP supremo said ever since the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) was formed, "BJP leaders have lost their sleep". Mayawati appealed to the voters to ensure a historic win for Yadav, who is the joint opposition candidate from the seat held by the SP in the outgoing Lok Sabha. Hitting back at the BJP, the BSP chief said, "We are not 'mahamilawati', it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is 'mahamilawati' (highly adulterated)." Modi has often labelled the opposition alliance as "'mahamilawati". Dubbing the Congress and the BJP as two sides of the same coin, she said, "Dono kaa chaal charan ek hai (both have same nature and character)." She said Modi would try to create more confusion in the days to come and appealed to the voters not to fall prey to his designs. "Unkey achchey din ladd gaye (Modi's good days are over) and bad days are staring at his face," she said. In a similar refrain, the SP chief claimed it was a "rain of votes" for the "mahagathbandhan" in the last five phases of polling and the same would be the scenario in the remaining two phases. Making fun of Modi, Yadav said he came as a tea vendor and became 'chowkidar', and asked the voters to snatch away his 'chowki' (chair). BJP president Amit Shah has asserted in his speeches and interviews that the party will improve its tally in Uttar Pradesh as compared to 2014 when it bagged a whopping 71 seats out of 80, besides its ally Apna Dal winning two. Sharing stage with the BSP and the SP bosses, RLD chief Ajit Singh said Modi's days as prime minister are over. He appealed to the people to vote out the "government of liars". (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A gangster wanted in a murder and bank robbery case of 2017 has been arrested here by the Special Task Force (STF) of the Uttar Pradesh police, officials said Wednesday. Suraj, who hails from Pataudi in Haryana's Gurgaon, was allegedly involved in the Rs 50 lakh bank robbery in Gonda district in eastern UP two years ago, the officials said. The accused, who was carrying a reward of Rs one lakh on his arrest, was held by the Noida unit of the STF following a gunfight here late Tuesday night, they said. "Suraj is a member of the nomadic Bawariya gang. He along with three other gang members, identified as Bijwa and Samay Singh, was involved in the Rs 50 lakh bank robbery in Gonda in 2017. The security guard of the bank was shot dead allegedly by the trio who went absconding since then," Deputy Superintendent of Police, STF, Raj Kumar Mishra said. He said Bijwa was injured in a gunfight with the STF on Monday night in Noida on a tip-off and arrested after medical treatment. "Yesterday, Suraj and one more person were on a motorcycle when they were cornered by the Noida field unit of the STF last night. After a brief gunfight, Suraj was arrested while the other managed to escape in the darkness of the night," he said. A firearm with some ammunition was seized from him, Mishra said. Besides the Gonda case, an FIR was also registered against Suraj under Indian Penal Code section 307 (attempt to murder) at Surajpur police station in Greater Noida in 2017, he said. "Suraj has been absconding in both cases," the officer said, adding further questioning is underway to track the person who escaped and elicit other details. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday warned Pakistan that India will not hesitate to stop water of rivers flowing to that country if Islamabad does not end its support to terrorism. "The Union government is already making a road map to stop water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan," he said Gadkari was speaking while campaigning for Amritsar BJP candidate Hardeep Puri. The minister said that the government is planning to build six water dams in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and this step would solve the water problem enormously. There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the BJP leader said. He said that the excess water will be given to Punjab and Haryana to address shortage in agriculture. On river water distribution between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, he said that the issue has to be sorted out without disturbing the water available to Punjab. Elaborating on the development work undertaken during the BJP-led NDA rule, he said that the Modi Government did what was not done in the last five decades. He said that the government was planning to begin double decker air bus service in sixcities, including Amritsar. In order to promote industry and business Union, the government was planning to build Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway which would reduce the journey time by four hours between Amritsar and Delhi. (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 Ministry of and Forests (MoEF) to submit a report on finalisation of eco-sensitive zone in the Western Ghats. A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel directed the Union Ministry to file the report within a month. "An undertaking was also noted in the order of this tribunal dated September 8, 2017 that final notification will be issued as expeditiously as possible and in any case within 12 months. "In view of above, let a report be furnished by the Ministry of and Forests about the status of compliance of the above orders within one month by e-mail at ngt.filing@gmail.com," the bench said. The tribunal was hearing a plea alleging that notification of eco-sensitive zone in the Western Ghats has not been finalised despite NGT's direction to complete the exercise within six months. Noting that the ecology of the Western Ghats was under "serious stress", the tribunal had earlier restrained six states falling in the region from giving environmental clearance to activities which may adversely affect the eco-sensitive areas. The green panel had allowed the MoEF to republish the draft notification of the Western Ghats that lapsed on August 26 last year and asked it to finalise the matter within six months without alterations to the eco-sensitive zone in terms of notification dated February 27, 2017. The tribunal had said the Western Ghats region is one of the richest biodiversity areas which needs to be conserved. The draft notification issued by the MoEF had identified area of 56,825 square kilometres spread across six states Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu as the Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA). Following protests by various groups and political parties against its recommendations, the government constituted the K Kasturirangan committee to examine the WGEEP report. Instead of the total area of the Western Ghats, only 37 per cent (i.e. 60,000 sq km) of the total area be brought under the ESA under the Kasturirangan report. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sudanese protest leaders Wednesday accused the military rulers of delaying the transfer of power to a civilian administration, amid disagreements between the two sides over the country's new governance structure. "The military council's response... is moving in the direction of extending the negotiation and not in the direction of transition" of power, the Alliance for Freedom and Change said in a statement. The protest movement said the military council is looking to "prolong the negotiations" after the generals took over following the ousting of veteran leader Omar al-Bashir on April 11. The 10-member military council has said they agreed overall to proposals submitted by protest leaders, but have "many reservations". The two sides are grappling over whether an overall ruling council should have a civilian or military majority. The Alliance for Freedom and Change has also remained silent on the military council's aim for Islamic law to remain the bedrock of Sudanese legislation. It said the generals had "irrelevant issues including the language and sources of legislation in a tedious repetition of the biddings of the former regime". "We call on the military council to reach an agreement to transfer power," the protest leaders said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sudan's army rulers Tuesday said Islamic law should remain as the guiding principle in a new civilian structure, after protest leaders handed in their proposals on changes they want enforced but kept silent on Sharia. The 10-member military council was handed proposals last week for the new civilian structures protest leaders want. The military council told reporters that the generals overall agreed to the proposals but they had "many reservations." This included the silence on Islamic Sharia law remaining the guiding principle of all laws. "The declaration failed to mention the sources of legislation, and the Islamic sharia law and tradition should be the source of legislation," Lieutenant General Shamseddine Kabbashi, spokesman for the military council, told reporters. Sudan, under ousted leader Omar al-Bashir, saw the Islamic law applied at random with the constitution saying that Sharia was the guiding principle. This led to thousands of women being flogged for "indecent behaviour," according to women's rights activists. Thousands of protesters remain encamped outside the army complex, demanding that the army rulers step down and hand over power to a civilian administration. The generals took power after the army ousted Bashir on April 11 following months of protests against his iron-fisted rule. But since then the military council has resisted calls for handing over power to civilians, the main demand of protesters. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Sudanese protest leaders on Wednesday threatened to launch a nationwide campaign of civil disobedience after accusing the country's military rulers of delaying the transfer of power to a civilian administration. Thousands of people remain camped outside the military headquarters in Khartoum nearly four weeks after the armed forces toppled autocratic president Omar al-Bashir as demanded by a months-long protest movement. The two sides are grappling over whether an overall ruling council that would replace the existing army council -- made up solely of generals -- should have a civilian or military majority. Last week the Alliance for Freedom and Change protest group handed over its proposals for a civilian structure, including executive and legislative bodies, that it eventually wants to rule Sudan after replacing the generals. The 10-member military council late on Tuesday said it agreed to the overall proposals, but had "many reservations". The protest leaders said on Wednesday that the military council was delaying the entire transfer of power. "The military council's response to the proposals of the Alliance for Freedom and Change was disappointing and risked putting the country in jeopardy," protest leader Khalid Omar Yousef told reporters. Responding to a journalist's question on what steps demonstrators would take after the army expressed reservations, Yousef threatened "escalatory measures". "The measures of escalation for us are defined -- they are continuing with the sit-in, and we are now preparing for a civil disobedience" campaign across the country, he said. The alliance also expressed concerns about the military dragging the process out. "The military council's response... is moving in the direction of extending the negotiations and not in the direction of a transition" of power, it said in a statement. On Tuesday the military council said the alliance had remained silent in its proposals on ensuring that Islamic sharia remains the bedrock of Sudanese legislation. The protest leaders said the generals "raised irrelevant issues including the language and sources of legislation in a tedious repetition of the biddings of the former regime". "We call on the military council to reach an agreement to transfer power," they said in the statement. The Alliance for Freedom and Change is made up of several political groups, leaders and activists, many of them of the view of building a new secular Sudan. Sudanese media and websites have often reported that for the protest leaders the issue of legislation and Islamic law is something that can be discussed later, but they first want a civilian body established in order to govern the country. The protest movement said the miliary council is acting in a way that seems to "kidnap the revolution and control its outcome". "The only choice for our people is comprehensive peaceful resistance until the revolution's demands are achieved." Thousands of protesters have been encamped outside the sprawling military headquarters in central Khartoum since April 6. Initially they gathered there to seek the army's support in ousting Bashir. But now they continue to hold their sit-in against the army council, demanding that it step down and transfer power to a civilian authority. The military council and protest leaders have differed on several issues and not just the composition of an overall ruling council. The military council wanted a two-year transition period as opposed to four years proposed by protest leaders. The council was also of the opinion that declarations of emergencies be in the hands of a "sovereign" authority rather than the cabinet as sought by protest leaders. Protest leaders have often called the military rulers the "remnants of the regime" of Bashir. The council also revealed on Tuesday that Sudan's former head of the feared National Intelligence and Security Service, Salah Ghosh, had been put under house arrest. It was Ghosh who oversaw security agents' sweeping crackdown on protesters before the fall of Bashir. Protest leaders however insist their key demand remains the same -- a full transfer of power to civilians. "The solution and success of the revolution lies on transfer of power to a full civilian authority," protest leader Mohamed Naji al-Assam said on Tuesday. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The twelve suspected Rohingya refugees, who were rescued three days ago here allegedly from a human trafficking gang, have been shifted to state-run shelter homes, a senior police officer said. A group of eight women and four minor boys were apprehended from the house of a local woman in Aizawl on Sunday for residing in India without valid travel documents. The woman, who had been hosting the group, told police that she provided them shelter as a favour to her cousin in Tahan, Myanmar. She also said that it was the fifth time that people took refuge at her home, before being transported to Myanmar. "While the boys were sent to a home for orphans, the women have been moved to another protected shelter home, both maintained by the state social welfare department. "It seems that all 12 of them were brought to Mizoram from Bangladesh refugee camps," Deputy Inspector General of Police (Northern Range) Lalbiakthanga Khiangte said. The DIG also said that the group was probably trafficked to Mizoram through the porous Assam border. "No one understood the language in which they were speaking, making the interrogation process extremely difficult for us," Khiangte said, adding that an investigation is underway to nab the culprits who brought them here illegally. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims fled persecution in Myanmar's Rakhine state to neighbouring Bangladesh since August 2017, triggering a massive refugee crisis. Many of them fall prey to trafficking gangs, who lure them with promise of better jobs and livelihood. Last month, a group of eight Rohingya women were apprehended at Vairengte, the Assam-Mizoram border town in Kolasib district. The group did not have Inner Line Permit. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Taliban militants stormed a US-funded aid group's central Kabul compound in an ongoing attack, having targeted the organisation for promoting Western culture and the "inter-mixing" of men and women. At least nine people were wounded in the latest attack to rock the Afghan capital, which came even as US and Taliban officials were meeting in Qatar for talks aimed at bringing an end to Afghanistan's war. The assault began around midday (local time) when a massive blast tore across Kabul. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said attackers then entered the compound of Counterpart International, a non-profit group funded at least in part by the US Agency for International Development (USAID). "The police have surrounded the area and a clearing operation is ongoing," Rahimi said, later adding that in the hours following the initial blast, 169 people were rescued from the site. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid quickly claimed responsibility for the attack, saying Counterpart International was targeted because it promoted the "inter-mixing" of men and women. The aid group mentored "Kabul admin workers in various aspects of brutality, oppression, terror, anti-Islamic ideology & promotion of western culture," Mujahid said on Twitter. Counterpart was not immediately available to comment, but the group's website says it runs a USAID-funded Afghan civic engagement programme supporting women and other marginalised groups across Afghanistan. Emergency, an Italian-run trauma centre in Kabul, said it had received 15 patients so far. Wahidullah Mayar, the spokesman for the ministry of public health, said at least nine people had been wounded. The huge explosion shook nearby buildings and shattered windows. "We started running out of the building and while running outside, I heard small gunfire and the sound of grenades going off nearby," said Akbar Khan Sahadat, a prosecutor in the Attorney General's office which was close to the scene of the blast. John Bass, the US ambassador to Afghanistan, said he strongly condemned the attack against the US non-governmental organisation. "The targeted organization helps local communities, trains journalists and supports the Afghan people," he said on Twitter. "For this, it is the target of senseless violence," he added, thanking local security forces for their rapid response. The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said the attack was "particularly deplorable, hitting civilians helping Afghans & taking place during Ramadan". The Taliban are notorious for their treatment of women during their reign from 1996-2001, when the Islamist extremists kept women locked up in houses, barred them from getting an education and sometimes stoned them to death on flimsy allegations of adultery. Suhail Shaheen, the Taliban's political spokesman, told AFP earlier this week that the latest round of peace talks, currently taking place in Doha, had become bogged down over the issue of when foreign forces might withdraw in return for the Taliban security guarantees. The two foes are hammering out a deal that could see foreign forces leave Afghanistan in return for a ceasefire, talks between the government and the Taliban, and a guarantee the country will not be used as a safe haven for terror groups. The talks follow a massive peace summit in Kabul last week where President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban a ceasefire to begin on the first day of Ramadan -- but the insurgents refused. The insurgents have rebuffed repeated calls to halt fighting over the last year as they seek to gain leverage at the negotiating table by pressing the fight on the battlefield. Last year the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire at the end of Ramadan after Ghani declared a unilateral truce for eight days earlier in the month, in the first formal nationwide ceasefire since the US-led invasion of 2001. Since then the insurgents have steadfastly refused to talk to Ghani, who they view as a US puppet, and talks thus far have cut out his government. According to Counterpart International's website, the organisation was founded in 1965 by Australian actress Betty Bryant Silverstein and a priest called Father Stan Hosie. Officials earlier wrongly identified the target of Tuesday's attack as the nearby CARE International. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Japan and Russias foreign ministers Sergey Lavrov and Taro Kono will hold a new round of talks in Moscow on May 10 aiming to resolve a territorial dispute between the two countries, Russias Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said. At the upcoming meeting, they will continue to discuss ways to implement the agreements between the Russian and Japanese presidents on accelerating the dialogue on this topic based on the 1956 Joint Declaration, she said. Lavrov and Kono will also exchange views on topical issues of the regional and global agenda, including interaction in the international arena and the situation in the Asia-Pacific region, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said. Suspected terrorists Wednesday shot at and injured two civilians in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, police said. The ultras shot at two civilians at Zainapora in Shopian, resulting in injuries to them, a police official said. He said both the injured persons have been shifted to a hospital. Further details are awaited. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A day after AMMK leader Thanga Tamilselvan sought DMK's help to dislodge the AIADMK dispensation, Chief Minister K Palaniswami Wednesday said the remark has exposed the tie-up between the two parties to topple the state government. Palaniswami emphasised that he had mentioned in several of his poll rallies that the rival leader T T V Dhinakaran-led Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam and DMK had been working together to bring down the AIADMK government. "I have already stated in several meetings that DMK and AMMK have been working together to topple the government and break up the AIADMK and Thanga Tamilselvan's remarks has now exposed it and confirmed that my stand was true," he told reporters here. He claimed the AIADMK will win the bypolls to 22 Assembly seats and continue to govern with majority belying the claims of DMK chief M K Stalin that DMK will win the bypolls. "People know that Stalin's dreams will not fructify," he said. Tamilselvan, AMMK's progaganda secretary and frontline leader, on Tuesday exuded confidence that his party would win the bypolls to all the 22 assembly seats. Still, to move a no-confidence motion against the government, he indicated that his party will need the support of 34 MLAs. Hence, the main opposition party DMK should pitch in during such an eventuality to bring down the government, he had said. "The DMK has to support us. If they do not, it means they are afraid of us... only if we and DMK join (hands) can this government be sent home," Tamilselvan had said. While by-elections to 18 assembly seats were held on April 18 along with the Lok Sabha elections, four others will go to the polls on May 19. In the 234 member House, AMMK leader Dhinakaran is an independent member and steps to register his outfit as a political party is currently on, according to the party. DMK has 88 MLAs and its allies, the Congress 8, and IUML one. The AIADMK has 114 members including the Speaker. Of the 114 AIADMK MLAs, three are siding with Dhinakaran while three others who won the polls in 2016 on AIADMK symbol two leaves had at times wavered in their position in the past putting a question mark on their future stand vis-a-vis support for the government. Thanga Tamilselvan, meanwhile, defended his remark seeking DMK's support. He said the AIADMK was claiming that theirs was "Amma's (Jayalalithaa) government," just for the sake of it whereas it was only "a corrupt government," led by "betrayers." Speaking to reporters at Madurai, he said only Dhinakaran was the "charismatic leader," and to bring him to the seat of power they will "dislodge," the AIADMK government and added that "there is nothing wrong in it." In the event of a no-confidence motion in the Assembly against the government, parties, including the AMMK, DMK and Congress, will naturally vote against the government which cannot be construed as a tie-up between such opposition outfits, he said. At a party meet in Coimbatore, Dhinakaran said "betrayal (AIADMK government) will be defeated on May 23 (the day of counting of votes), that day will convey the Tamil Nadu people's decision that they will never side with betrayers. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Three persons, including two staffers of a businessman, were arrested for allegedly stealing five kg gold and about Rs 5 lakh cash from his house in south Delhi's Hauz Khaz, police said Wednesday. The businessman left for Dubai on April 27 and the alleged incident surfaced on May 3 after his return from abroad, they said. In a complaint at the Hauz Khas police station, he stated that his driver Sanjay Tamang, the driver's wife Pinki Tamang, and cook Deep Lama were staying at his residence at Panchsheel Park in his absence, the police said. "When the businessman returned, he found his house locked while none of his staff was at home and their mobile phones were switched off. He managed to enter the house with a duplicate key. His personal room, which was locked by him, was found open and his almirah was found broken," Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Vijay Kumar said. Three gold biscuits, around 125 gold coins of five gm and eight gm, diamond bracelets with bangles and some cash were found missing, the officer said. The three accused identified as - Sanjay Tamang, Pinki Tamang and Deep Lama, he said. As the accused persons belonged to Jalpai Guri in West Bengal, police teams were sent to Jalpai Guri and Gorakhpur. The assistance of SSB at the Nepal Border and that of the Uttar Pradesh Crime Branch was also taken, he added. On the basis of analysis of Call Detail Record of the accused persons, one suspect was identified as Sameer Vishwakarma, a resident of Nehru Nagar. Vishwakarma is a friend of accused Sanjay Tamang. He was arrested and 40 gold coins and Rs 50,000 were recovered from him from his residence, the DCP said. Later, Sanjay Tamang and Deep Lama were also arrested and on their instance, three gold biscuits weighing 1 kg each and Rs 2 lakh in cash were recovered from a house in Munirka. A total of 3.32 kg gold and Rs 2,50,000 cash has been recovered so far, the officer said. Sanjay Tamang had allegedly been committing theft at the businessman's house for the last six-seven months, he said. Accused Pinki Tamang is still at large, police said, adding further investigation is underway. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declined Wednesday to confirm whether Aasia Bibi, the Christian woman at the center of a decade-long blasphemy row in Pakistan, has arrived in Canada. "There are sensitive privacy issues and security issues on this and so I can't comment," Trudeau told reporters outside parliament, after Bibi's lawyer Saif ul Mulook and multiple security sources in Pakistan told AFP that Bibi had gone to Canada. Bibi -- a laborer from Pakistan's central Punjab province -- was first convicted of blasphemy in 2010 and was on death row until her acquittal last year. Her case has drawn worldwide attention to religious extremism in Pakistan, where the saga has sparked violent demonstrations and high-profile assassinations. She has technically been free to leave Pakistan since January when the Supreme Court dismissed a legal challenge to her acquittal in October, but awaited an asylum deal in a third country. In November Trudeau said Ottawa was holding talks with Pakistan about bringing her to Canada. On Wednesday British Prime Minister Theresa May appeared to confirm that Canada was her destination, saying its asylum offer was "right and appropriate." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also said in a statement that she had "safely reunited with her family. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Chinese trade officials headed to Washington for talks this week intend to "make a deal," US President Donald Trump said Wednesday, reviving hopes for success in negotiations that had appeared to hang by a thread. "China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the US to make a deal," Trump said on Twitter, referring to top trade envoy Liu He. "We'll see but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling US coffers...great for US, not good for China!" Citing sudden backtracking by the Chinese side after months of negotiations, the White House this week announced US tariffs on USD 200 billion in Chinese imports would more than double on Friday -- a prospect that had long sent shivers through the global economy. Trump's tweet suggested he was comfortable either with making a deal or with leaving the tariffs in place, however. Following the tariffs announcement, stock markets around the world sank for two trading days and Wall Street futures were still in the red shortly after 1300 GMT on Wednesday but were moving higher. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A passenger train slammed into a lorry that became stranded on a rail line in northern Germany on Wednesday, injuring twelve people, two of them seriously, police said. The crash at around 4:30am (0230 GMT) at a level crossing in Alt Duvenstedt, near Flensburg, derailed the regional train, which was carrying 22 passengers. "All of those injured were taken to hospital," a police spokesman told AFP, adding one victim of the crash was flown by helicopter to hospital in the port city of Kiel. The accident happened when the cab of the articulated lorry, towing 70 tonnes of heavy equipment, became stranded at the level crossing. The driver jumped clear before the crash, police told agency DPA. Police said it was unclear why the truck became stuck at the crossing. The impact badly damaged the front of the train, which was lifted off the tracks. Rail travel between Flensburg and Hamburg is expected to be severely disrupted for most of Wednesday, police said, because of damage to overhead lines and the tracks. "A special train from (national rail operator) Deutsche Bahn is coming to get the train that crashed back on the rails," a police spokesman told daily Bild. "But the track where the accident happened will remain closed for hours because the rail bed has been affected." Last October, around 16 people were injured in a similar accident between a regional train and an articulated lorry in Sipplingen, near Lake Constance, southern Germany. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two cows were found dead in a park in east Delhi's Trilokpuri on Wednesday, leading to tension in the communally-sensitive area following which police has stepped up security. Police were informed by a dairy owner at 6 am that two of his cows were lying dead in Sanjay Jheel Park opposite Kotla village, said as senior police officer. Due to lack of enough space, the dairy owner would usually leave his cows in the park where they used to gaze. However, when the dairy owner visited the park in the morning to milk the cows, he found that two of them were missing, police said. Later, he found the two cows dead in the park following which he informed police, the officer said. When police reached the spot, they found that the two cows had been killed while others were safe. The carcases were sent for autopsy to find the cause of death, he said. A case has been registered under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code against unidentified persons, he added. Additional security has also been put in place as it is a communally sensitive area, he said. There are no CCTV cameras in the area, police said, adding they are using local intelligence. Taking serious note of the killing of two cows in Trilokpuri, Delhi Minorities Commission (DMC) chairman Dr Zafarul-Islam Khan wrote to Delhi Police Commissioner warning him that miscreants may try to use the incident to trigger violence ahead of May 12 polling in the city. The DMC Chairman asked the police to ensure peace and tranquillity in the area and arrest the criminals involved in the incident. Polling will be held in all seven seats in Delhi on May 12. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two Naxals, including a woman, were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district in the early hours of Wednesday, police said. The face-off took place around 5 am at a forest in Gonderas village when a joint team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Special Task Force (STF) was out on an anti-Maoist operation, Deputy Inspector General (anti-naxal operations) Sundarraj P told PTI. The patrolling team was moving through Gonderas, located along the border of Dantewada-Sukma districts, when a group of the ultras fired at them, leading to the gun-battle, he said. After the exchange of fire stopped, bodies of two Maoists, including a woman, were recovered from the spot along with an Insas rifle and a 12 bore gun, the DIG said. Besides, some ammunition, Maoist literature, items of daily use and other Naxal-related material were also seized from the spot, he said. Those killed are yet to be identified, he said. The incident took place around 450-km from state capital Raipur. "No harm was reported to the security personnel in the gunfight. Search operation is underway in the area," he added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat on Wednesday ordered an inquiry into the partial sinking of a floating restaurant into the Tehri lake, an official said. Marina, the first-of-its-kind boat to have been launched in the Tehri Lake to attract tourists, had grabbed headlines last year when the state government held a cabinet meeting there. Rawat asked the Tehri district magistrate and the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam's managing director to conduct a detailed inquiry and submit a report, an official said. The chief minister asked the officials to take effective steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The boat, which submerged on Tuesday, was lying unused for several months since its opening last year as no one came forward to take the facility on lease and operate it for tourists. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appreciated India's support to the counter-terrorism work of the world body and underscored the need to "detect and disrupt" terrorists fleeing the Islamic State prior to them carrying out an attack as a high priority for the international community. The UN chief made these remarks during the launch of the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel Programme on Tuesday, over two weeks after the Easter Sunday terror attacks in Sri Lanka claimed by the ISIS. The programme would help to strengthen international counter-terrorism cooperation, expand multilateral networks for sharing information to detect, identify, disrupt and prosecute terrorists and to ensure that member states most affected by terrorism have the capacity to tackle this evolving threat, he said. "The United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel Programme we launch today is about helping to meet all these objectives. I would like to thank the Dutch Government for its generous contribution to this effort," he said. "I appreciate the continued support of the Governments of India, Japan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar to the counter-terrorism work of the United Nations," Guterres said. The UN chief noted that following the territorial defeat of ISIL (also known as ISIS and Islamic State), many terrorists are trying to return home or relocate to safe havens or other troubled parts of the world. "Many are well trained and could carry out future terrorist attacks. Others hope to radicalize and recruit new followers to their cause. They, as well as those they inspire, represent a major transnational threat," he said. "Detecting and disrupting these terrorists and other high-risk criminals prior to them carrying out an attack is a high priority for the international community," he said. The programme will help member states collect, process and share travel data with other competent national and international authorities, with full respect for privacy and other fundamental freedoms, he said. "We know that policies that fully respect human rights are essential in tackling violent extremism. This information sharing will enhance the abilities of member states to effectively detect, prevent, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences, including their related travel," Guterres added. Highlighting that there has been a dramatic movement of terrorists to and from conflict zones around the world over the last seven years, he said that just two years ago, more than 40,000 people from more than 110 countries may have travelled to join terrorist groups in the Syrian Arab Republic and Iraq. "The recent despicable attacks in Kenya, New Zealand and Sri Lanka, among others, are tragic reminders of the global reach of the scourge of terrorism," he said, adding such incidents underscore the need to work closely with partners across the United Nations system and beyond. The General Assembly and Security Council resolution 2396 have reaffirmed the need to strengthen international cooperation and information sharing to improve national detection capacities and prevent the travel of terrorists, Guterres said. "Importantly, this (the programme) will also enable the detection and disruption of human trafficking and other forms of serious organised crime and to faster identify their victims," he said. Guterres said that the UN family is ready to assist in protecting and ensuring the rights of all victims whose interests are served by this project. "It represents the kind of cooperative, inter-governmental and institutional approach that I aimed for when I established the Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact last year to enhance counter-terrorism coordination and coherence across the system," he stressed. In that context, the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre has also stepped up its efforts to meet the growing expectations and demands from countries most affected by terrorism, he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Twenty seven years have passed since the occupation of Azerbaijan's town of Shusha by Armenia's armed forces. Shusha, one of the unique cultural centers of Azerbaijan, is a city, characterized for its natural beauty, and is a valuable monument of national architecture and medieval urban art. Constantly keeping the Azerbaijani national-spiritual values and traditions of music, Shusha before forming as a city of great economic, political and cultural significance, has passed a rich way as a center of Karabakh khanate, played its role in the lives of the people of Azerbaijan. This city, which went down in history thanks to Gasim bey Zakir, Khurshidbanu Natavan, Mir Mohsun Navvab, Najaf bey Vezirov, Abdurrahim bey Hagverdiyev, Yusif Vazir Chemenzeminli, Firidun bey Kocharli, Ahmad bey Agaoglu and other eminent personalities, is known worldwide as the cradle of the Azerbaijani mugham. In 1977 at the initiative of the national leader Heydar Aliyev a decree "On the declaration of the historic part of the city of Shusha as historical and architectural reserve" was passed. Since that time, creative work in Shusha became widespread, house-museums of the great figures of our culture and arts Uzeyir bey Hajibeyli, Khurshidbanu Natavan and Bul-Bul were created, a mausoleum of an outstanding poet Molla Panah Vagif was built. As a result of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the Republic of Azerbaijan, which adopted on October 18, 1991 relevant documents for the restoration of its national independence, came face to face with the aggressive policy of ethnic cleansing by Armenia. Given that the country which was undergoing profound political, economic and social crisis and finding ways out of from tense situation in Nagorno-Karabakh, has not yet formed its own national army, it relied only on voluntary assistance of self-defense units during defense of Shusha which has high military and strategic importance. However, despite the fact that they fought valiantly, and had a decent resistance, on May 8, 1992 the Armenian armed forces occupied Shusha. In that battle, 195 people defending Shusha were killed, 165 people injured, 58 people captured and taken hostage. During the occupation vandals looted the museums, stealing thousands of exhibits, destroyed hundreds of historical and cultural monuments, desecrated shrines and mosques, ruined a large number of rare manuscripts, destroyed education and health care institutions. About 200 children in Sri Lanka have lost their family members, some of them sole breadwinners, in the massive Easter Sunday bombings, according to a leading charity organisation. Some of the families have lost their source of income and might not have sufficient savings to resume their normal life, Colombo-based Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS) said. Nine suicide bombers carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday, killing more than 250 people. The ISIS terror group claimed the attacks, but the government blamed local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jammath (NTJ) for the bombings. The victims included over 40 foreigners, 10 of whom were Indians. The livelihood of 75 families have been disrupted due to the injuries sustained to their family members. More than 500 people were injured in the incident, Colombo Gazette quoted the SLRCS as saying. "Some of them will not be able to go to work due to injuries, and some lost their physical ability to work," the report said. The SLRCS said that there is a need to provide Psychological First Aid (PFA) to the people who were directly affected by the incident especially the survivors, witnesses and those families who have lost their family members. "They may struggle with or face new challenges following the event. By providing PFA, the SLRCS aims to reduce the initial distress caused by traumatic events and foster short and long-term adaptive functioning and coping," it said. Inter-ethnic anxiety has also risen in the affected districts as well as in the country, the society said. There are a lot of uncertainties, tension and panic among people, due to ongoing threats of another round of explosions, ongoing security checking across country, suspicion about terrorists and state of emergency being issued, it said. The country's top leadership on Tuesday said that authorities have arrested or killed all the militants responsible for the deadly Easter blasts, but warned that the country still faces the threat of ISIS terror attacks. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US has lifted sanctions on a top Venezuelan general who broke ranks with President Nicols Maduro, trying to help the opposition regain momentum in the face of a government crackdown following last week's failed uprising. Vice President Mike Pence said Tuesday that the lifting of financial sanctions for former spy chief Manuel Figuera is intended to encourage others in the military to abandon their support for Maduro. The Treasury Department said the move is a display of "good faith" designed to elicit "concrete and meaningful actions to restore democratic order" by dozens of other sanctioned Venezuelan insiders. As the US looked to lure the Venezuelan military, Maduro and his allies started going after opponents who supported the uprising. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US President Donald Trump Wednesday imposed tougher-than-ever sanctions on Iran's iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors, a move aimed at stopping Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles and to counter its "malign influence" in the Middle East. A year after he withdrew from the "fatally flawed", "one-sided" Iran nuclear deal and began the process of reimposing sanctions on Tehran, Trump with his new move has now imposed sanctions on Iran's top three exports oil, petrochemicals and metals. The Trump administration is imposing tougher sanctions on Iran than ever before because the regime continues to engage in destructive and destabilising activities, the White House said moments after Trump notified the US Congress about his latest sanctions on Iran. "The (Iranian) regime has maintained its nuclear ambitions and continues to develop its ballistic missile capabilities and support terrorism," the White House said. "The United States will aggressively enforce its sanctions, and those who continue to engage in sanctionable activity involving Iran will face severe consequences," it said. An executive order signed by Iran takes steps to deny Iran revenue, including revenue derived from the export of products from Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors that may be used to provide funding and support for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist groups and networks, campaigns of regional aggression, and military expansion, Trump said. "It remains the policy of the United States to deny Iran all paths to both a nuclear weapon and intercontinental ballistic missiles, and to counter the totality of Iran's malign influence in the Middle East," Trump said in his executive order. "It is also the policy of the United States to deny the Iranian government revenue, including revenue derived from the export of products from Iran's iron, steel, aluminum, and copper sectors, that may be used to provide funding and support for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorist groups and networks, campaigns of regional aggression, and military expansion," it said. Noting that the Iran deal was a disastrous "one-sided" deal that failed to end Iran's nuclear programme and the full range of the regime's malign activity, the White House said Trump withdrew from the deal because it failed to protect American national security interests and enabled Tehran's malign behaviour. "The Iran deal left Iran with future pathways to pursue nuclear weapons. The regime was allowed to preserve its nuclear infrastructure, keep enriching uranium, and continue research and development. The deal included incomplete mechanisms for inspections and verification," it said. The extensive nuclear archive exposed by Israel proves Tehran pursued nuclear weapons and secretly preserved its blueprints and database to do so, the White House said. The deal failed to address Iran's wide range of malign activities, including its global terrorist campaign, unjust detention of Americans, ballistic missile development and more, it alleged. The regime received an influx of cash because of sanctions relief that it has used to engage in and support terrorism and to destabilise the Middle East, it said. The White House asserted that President Trump's maximum pressure campaign is working, having already denied the regime direct access to more than USD 10 billion in oil revenue since May 2018. The Trump administration will continue to apply maximum pressure on the Iranian regime until its leaders change their destructive behaviour and return to the negotiating table, it said. The sanctions come after Trump last month refused to give waivers to countries like India from buying oil from Iran, in an attempt to reduce Iran's oil exports to zero. After coming to power, Trump withdrew from the Iranian nuclear deal last year and has imposed stringent sanctions against what he describes as the "authoritarian" Iranian regime. The US is seeking to ramp up pressure on Iran to counter what the White House perceives to be a potential threat. Last month, the US designated Iran's Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organisation, the first time the designation has been applied to a government entity. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has made an unannounced trip to Iraq as Washington warns Iran against any action against American interests in the Middle East. Pompeo was in Baghdad briefly Tuesday night before flying out. Pompeo says his visit was meant to show US support for "a sovereign, independent" Iraq, free from the influence of neighbouring Iran. He met with Iraq's president and prime minister. Pompeo's visit comes amid increasing tensions between Washington and Tehran. The US is rushing an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East to deter or respond to any Iranian attack. US officials have said there are indications Iran is planning to retaliate for the Trump administration's stepped-up sanctions on the country, although the threat information remains vague. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US on Wednesday said that it uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world as it welcomed the reunification of Pakistani Christian woman Aasia Bibi with he family in Canada, months after her death sentence was overturned. Bibi, a mother of four from Punjab province, was taken out of Pakistan after repeated death threats from religious extremists, following the quashing of her conviction for blasphemy last year. The 47-year-old mother of four was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. Bibi's counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that she has reached Canada. "The United States welcomes the that Asia Bibi has safely reunited with her family, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. This important step follows the decision of Pakistan's Supreme Court to acquit her of blasphemy charges in October 2018 a decision that was subsequently upheld in January 2019, Pompeo said. Asia Bibi is now free, and we wish her and her family all the best following their reunification. The United States uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, as they jeopardize the exercise of fundamental freedoms, Pompeo. Asia Noreen, commonly known as Asia Bibi, was the first woman to be sentenced to death under Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws. Under Pakistan's penal code, the offense of blasphemy is punishable by death or life imprisonment. She was kept at a secret location while arrangements were made for her to leave the country. The Supreme Court's quashing of her sentence on October 31 last year led to violent protests by religious hardliners who support strong blasphemy laws, while more liberal sections of society urged her release. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The White House on Tuesday welcomed the release of two Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo after they were pardoned by the civilian government of Myanmar. "Jailed for over 500 days since December 2017 for reporting on atrocities against the Rohingya, we are delighted they will be reunited with their families, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said. The two journalists from the London-based agency won international acclaim for their reporting on the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar. Their December 2017 arrests made them an international cause celebre and a sign of Myanmar's deteriorating press freedoms under Nobel laureate and civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Sanders hoped other jailed journalists in Myanmar would also be freed. "A free press, freedom of religion, and the rule of law are fundamental principles for any democracy. The United States will continue promoting a stable, prosperous, and democratic transition in Burma," Sanders said. Welcoming their release Senator Marco Rubio said the two journalists were unjustly jailed for their work -- reporting the alleged atrocities against the Rohingya. "Their cases serve as a reminder of the critical role a free press plays in bringing accountability and transparency to governments, and we must do all we can to protect and advance those principles," Rubio said. Non-profit Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also welcomed the release. "As well as the release of two individuals who should never have been in prison Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo this is a fundamental victory for press freedom and for the RSF, which had campaigned constantly since their arrest," said Daniel Bastard, the head of RSF's Asia-Pacific desk. "Their case is emblematic of investigative journalism's importance for the functioning of democracies. We hail the role played by all those civil society actors who, both in Myanmar and internationally, never forgot the fate of these two journalists and kept fighting for them until this successful outcome," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The US has welcomed the release of two Reuters journalists in Myanmar after they were pardoned by the country's civilian government, amidst international pressure. Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo walked free Tuesday from Yangon's Insein jail after spending over 500 days in prison. They were jailed under Myanmar's Official Secrets Act for reporting on a massacre of Rohingya civilians. The two men were released as part of an amnesty of 6,520 prisoners by the country's President Win Myint. "Jailed for over 500 days since December 2017 for reporting on atrocities against the Rohingya, we are delighted they will be reunited with their families, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said Tuesday. The two journalists from the London-based agency won international acclaim for their reporting on the Rohingya crisis in Myanmar. The men led an explosive Reuters investigation -- which eventually won a Pulitzer Prize -- into the killing of 10 Rohingya men in the village of Inn Dinn, part of a military-led campaign against the Muslim minority which began in August 2017 after Rohingya militants attacked police posts. More than 720,000 Rohingya are estimated to have been forced to flee into Bangladesh as a result of the ensuing violence. Their December 2017 arrests made them an international cause celebre and a sign of Myanmar's deteriorating press freedoms under Nobel laureate and civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Sanders hoped other jailed journalists in Myanmar would also be freed. "A free press, freedom of religion, and the rule of law are fundamental principles for any democracy. The United States will continue promoting a stable, prosperous, and democratic transition in Burma," Sanders said. Welcoming their release Senator Marco Rubio said the two journalists were unjustly jailed for their work -- reporting the alleged atrocities against the Rohingya. "Their cases serve as a reminder of the critical role a free press plays in bringing accountability and transparency to governments, and we must do all we can to protect and advance those principles," Rubio said. Non-profit Reporters Without Borders (RSF) also welcomed the release of the two journalists. "As well as the release of two individuals who should never have been in prison Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo this is a fundamental victory for press freedom and for the RSF, which had campaigned constantly since their arrest," said Daniel Bastard, the head of RSF's Asia-Pacific desk. "Their case is emblematic of investigative journalism's importance for the functioning of democracies. We hail the role played by all those civil society actors who, both in Myanmar and internationally, never forgot the fate of these two journalists and kept fighting for them until this successful outcome," he said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Fearing use of gold and cash in elections in Delhi, the Customs department here has increased vigil and started sharing details of seizures with Income and poll authorities, officials said Wednesday. The move comes following a directive in this regard from the chief electoral officer (CEO) to the Customs department, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Income department and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), among others. The Customs department is keeping a hawkeye especially on passengers coming from the Gulf sector -- infamous for gold smuggling cases-- to check for any suspicious gold and cash movement, the officials said. "The cases of smuggling of foreign currencies are also under the scanner of the Customs," an official said. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport witnesses a large number of gold smuggling cases. Gold worth over Rs 110 crore was seized from smugglers by Customs officials at the during 2018, according to official data. Polls in seven constituencies of are scheduled to be held on May 12. Besides, elections in all ten seats in Haryana, including neighbouring Gurgaon, will also be held on the same day. "There may be an attempt to smuggle in gold and cash for its probable use in the funding of the polls. Customs officials are maintaining a strict vigil at the airport to check such movement," the official said. The Customs department is also sharing data on seizure of gold weighing 1 kg or more with the Income department and poll authorities, he said. The CISF and the Customs have been asked to share the daily report of cases of detection of cash or cash equivalent exceeding Rs 10 lakh and bullion weighing 1kg or more with the Income Tax department, according to the CEO's directive. The Customs department has been also asked to "provide information to CEO, Delhi, as well as District Magistrate/Returning Officer (South) on the cases of detection of cash, bullion, valuable items related to election activities/purposes even if coming from abroad". Not only the passenger terminal, activities at the airport's cargo terminal are also being monitored closely to check such suspicious movement. The BCAS, on detection of suspicious cash, cash equivalent, bullion, any valuable items, unauthorised items, contraband goods as well as election material in domestic cargo during the entire election process in Delhi, shall immediately report to authorities concerned that is the Income Tax department or the CISF or Delhi Police, the directive said. It shall also submit a report of such cases to Delhi poll authorities, it said. A total of 340 cases of gold smuggling, an increase of 58 per cent as compared to the cases filed in 2017, were registered by the Customs department at the in 2018. In these, 402.48 kg of gold, valued at Rs 113.83 crore, were seized and 262 persons were arrested. There were 57 cases of smuggling of foreign currencies during the year, in which foreign currencies worth Rs 22.27 crore were seized. A total of 38 persons were arrested in these cases. In a recent case, an employee of the Delhi Duty Free shop was among six people arrested by the Customs for allegedly smuggling gold worth about Rs 60 lakh at the airport. Five passengers, including four Turkmenistani, were arrested last wee by the Customs officials for smuggling gold worth Rs 2 crore at / -- Next-generation customer service through voice assistants Vernacular.ai has announced that its breakthrough technology is enabling Indian businesses to achieve significantly improved outcomes in customer satisfaction. "Across sectors, we have found that 70% of call center queries are repetitive in nature and do not require human intervention. We have successfully automated these queries for multiple customers, across different languages using our Vernacular Intelligent Virtual Agent (VIVA). We have achieved a high level of accuracy given the complexities of Indian languages and pioneered algorithms to understand the customer's intent. The result is that we can deliver higher customer satisfaction (CSAT) scores for our clients compared to the previous human agent only model," says Sourabh Gupta, the Co-Founder and CEO of Vernacular.ai. While it has been known for a while now that voice and vernacular are game changers that would transform the way Indian businesses operate and impart customer service, businesses had struggled to incorporate the diversity of Indian languages. There was no complete package that would work as a single, unified platform with the ability to interact with the backend processes of systems, typically in English. Its AI and NLP-based platform, with up to 95% accuracy rate, offers two major products for improving the customer experience: Call center automation Voice assistant for apps The result is that businesses can now speak the customer's language and enhance customer experience with voice-based interactions in local languages while up to 80% costs. "At Vernacular.ai, we know that the future is going to be voice-first. We believe India's growth will mirror that of China in the use of vernacular and voice in the digital space, where push-to-talk features on smartphones are standard. Our mission is to help businesses be ready to solve for voice for the next billion Indians coming online," concludes Gupta. About Vernacular.ai: Vernacular.ai is a multi-lingual AI platform that automates call centers and builds voice assistants for Indian enterprises. The company was launched in 2016 by IIT Roorkee alumni and works closely with leading businesses, enabling them to achieve significant savings on call centers through the use of voice bots. Its Speech-to-Text engine supports 10 Indian languages, covering 100+ dialects and accents. The company's technology, products, and platforms are all focused on enabling the next billion Indian users to talk in their mother tongue for every business transaction. Source: Vernacular. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Actor-producer Atul Agnihotri says his brother-in-law Salman Khan will play the role of a detective in the remake version of "Veteran", which will be bigger and larger than the original Korean film. Atul has acquired the rights of the original film. "I saw the film and I liked it. I thought it is an opportunity to make it with him. It is a class film. I showed him the film and he felt the same. Salman has given a go ahead. He will play the detective in the film," Atul told PTI. "Adaptation are never literal, adaptations are always a starting point. After that, you blend it according to the sensibilities of audience. It will have many big things, I have to make it bigger and larger as the expectations are huge every time Salman does a film. We hope to star sometime next year." The 2015 Korean film revolves around a detective, who hunts down a young and successful man running a crime syndicate. The superstar, who is currently busy promoting his upcoming film "Bharat", which is also an official remake of 2014 Korean drama "Ode to My Father". It is co-produced by Atul and it also stars Katrina Kaif, Disha Patani, Tabu, Sunil Grover, Jackie Shroff. Asked why Korean remakes, Atul says, "I watch films in all languages it just happened that our heart was set on 'Bharat' and 'Veteran'." "Bharat", directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, is set to be released on June 5. The director said his daughter Alizeh Agnihotri is working on the sets of "Dabangg 3" to gain knowledge before she enters Bollywood as an actor. "She is preparing (to enter the industry). I am happy the way she is approaching things. It is going great. I am happy. She is not working as AD, she observes things, she doesn't have a committed position. "For them, this environment is not new. She has seen films from discussion to execution stage. She is preparing, she is doing her regular courses, like in acting and other things. Her concentration is on acting. It is a long journey ahead. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu will undertake a three-day official trip to Vietnam from Thursday, the External Affairs Ministry said. He will hold meetings with Vice-President of Vietnam Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Chairperson of National Assembly of Vietnam Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan, the MEA said in an official statement. Naidu will deliver the keynote address at the 16th United Nations Day of Vesak Celebration at Tam Chuc Pagoda in Ha Nam Province. He will also meet the Indian community and Vietnamese beneficiaries of the Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp organized in Vietnam under the 'India for Humanity' initiative launched to commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the statement said. It said India-Vietnam relations have been built on a firm foundation of close cultural, historical and civilisational links and are marked by mutual trust and understanding as well as strong cooperation in regional and international fora. During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Vietnam in September 2016, the relationship between the two countries was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the statement said. Naidu's visit to Vietnam follows a series of high-level exchanges that have taken place in 2018, including visits to India by the prime minister of Vietnam (January 2018) and by the president of Vietnam (March 2018), it said. These exchanges have resulted in robust cooperation in several areas, have expanded defence and security ties, forged new economic and commercial linkages and deepened people-to-people engagement. The two sides share a common desire to promote peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, the statement said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Supreme Court made it clear once again on Wednesday that it will not extend even by a day the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam and gave "free hand" to the Coordinator to deal with complaints. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman asked Prateek Hajela, the Assam NRC coordinator, to deal with the claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the draft NRC. The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many persons, who had objected to inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC, are not coming forward before the panels dealing with such complaints. "You decide it. If they (who have objected to inclusion of names in draft NRC) are not pursuing the objections, then law will take its own course. Whatever you do, the date is July 31. It can be a day earlier but not a day later," the bench told Hajela. The court told Hajela to use his "wise discretion" and keep the law in mind while deciding objections on inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC. The bench said that if those who have filed objections would not appear to pursue it, then Hajela can proceed as per the law. "We have told you to take wise decision. We are giving you a free hand to exercise your discretion. Keep the law in mind and decide it," the bench said. "On our consideration of the report and after interacting with Hajela, all that would be required to be recorded is that the process of preparation of the final NRC shall continue to ensure that the publication of the final NRC is made on or before July 31, 2019," the bench said in its order. "The state coordinator is free to deal with all incidental issues, that may arise, in his wise discretion and in accordance with law," it said. The bench, which posted the matter for further hearing on July 10, granted liberty to Hajela to mention the matter before registrar (judicial) of the apex court on any day during the summer vacation, if urgent orders are required in the case. On April 10, the apex court had asked Hajela to take steps to minimise the "inconvenience" of the people who have filed claims before the authorities after being left out in the draft NRC. Hajela had last month submitted before the court that the citizenship claims of left out persons were being verified on the basis of "family tree" and land records. Verification of claims on the basis of family tree was being conducted near the place where most of the relatives of the claimant are residing, he had said. On February 5, the apex court had observed that the Centre was "hell bent" on stalling the Assam NRC work while rapping it for seeking suspension of the process during the polls citing non-availability of security forces. The draft Assam NRC was published on July 30, 2018 in which the names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold. The first draft of Assam NRC was published on the intervening night of December 31, 2017 and January 1 in accordance with the top court's direction. Names of 1.9 crore people out of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated then. Assam, which had faced influx of people from Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state to have an NRC, first prepared in 1951. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A woman and her 16-year-old daughter were killed when a gas cylinder exploded in their house in Salarpur village here, officials said Wednesday. The incident occurred Tuesday night in the house of Suresh, killing his wife Munni Devi (40) and their daughter Karishma while their son Neeraj suffered serious burn injuries, camp in-charge of SSB Abhishek Kumar said. The fire engulfed at least 20 houses in the vicinity, officials said. The explosion took place in the thatched house of Suresh when a programme was going on there. Following the incident, the villagers rushed to the SSB camp for help, Kumar said. "On the request of SSB, a fire tender from Gulariya in Nepal came and extinguished fire," the SSB camp in-charge said. Gulariya is a municipality and headquarters of Bardiya district in the Bheri zone of south-western Nepal. It is located in the plains of the Terai region near the southern border with the Bahraich district (of Uttar Pradesh). The bodies were sent for post-mortem, the police said. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Two Naxals, including a woman, were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district on Wednesday morning, police said. While initially the police said bodies of two Naxals were recovered following the encounter, they later said that only one body was found along with two firearms. The face-off took place around 5 am at a forest near Gonderas village when a joint team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Special Task Force (STF) was out on an anti-Maoist operation, Deputy Inspector General (anti-Naxal operations) Sundarraj P told PTI. The patrolling team was moving through Gonderas, located along the border of Dantewada-Sukma districts around 450 km from here, when a group of ultras fired at them, leading to the gun-battle, he said. The exchange of fire lasted for about an hour following which the rebels fled from the spot, he said. "During search, the body of a woman Naxal clad in uniform was recovered from the spot along with an Insas rifle and a 12 bore gun", the DIG said. "Initially, the troops at the ground informed that two ultras, including a woman, were gunned down. But later we got information that the ultras managed to drag the body of their male colleague inside the forest," he said. Some ammunition, Maoist literature, items of daily use and other Naxal-related material were found at the spot, he said. "Several other Naxals were reported to be injured in the gunfight," the DIG said, adding a search operation was underway in the area to trace them. Dantewada Superintendent of Police Abhishek Pallava said, acting on specific inputs about presence of 70 to 80 rebels in Gonderas, a joint team of around 260 security personnel had launched the operation. Women commandos of the recently raised DRG platoon, named 'Danteshwari Ladake' (fighters of Goddess Danteshwari), were also involved in the anti-Naxal action, he said. The killed cadre, who was yet to be identified, prima facie seemed to be from military battalion no.1 of Maoists, Pallava said. Security forces have intensified anti-Naxal operations in Dantewada following the killing of BJP MLA Bhima Mandavi and four police personnel in a deadly attack by rebels in Shyamgiri area of the district on April 9. According to police, three commander rank cadres of Maoists were gunned down in separate encounters in Dantewada in the past one month. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Cooperation between India and Israel are growing at a rapid pace and a change in government will not impact the bilateral ties, Israeli envoy Ron Malka said Wednesday. He said the strategic relations between the two countries are based on common values and vision and the cooperation between the two countries will grow further in coming years. The Israeli envoy was asked during a media interaction whether there will be any impact on bilateral ties if the NDA alliance fails to retain power in the Lok Sabha polls. "I do not see any reason why it should change. It is a relationship between two nations. The relationship is growing and growing, no matter who is in power," he said. Malka was talking to the media on the occasion of 71th Independence Day of Israel. He said both countries are working to further strengthen relationship in diverse areas. Asked why a planned visit to India by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in February did not materialise, the envoy said he could not come here due to scheduling issues. On cooperation between the India and Israel in dealing with terrorism, he said both sides cooperate with each other to deal with the menace. He said time has come for the world to unite in combating the challenge of terrorism. "The world must be united in fighting against terrorism," he added. Union minister Kiren Rijiju represented India at Israel's national day celebrations. Ties between India and Israel have witnessed upward trajectory in the last few years. India is the largest buyer of Israel's military hardware and the latter has been supplying various weapon systems, missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles over the last few years but the transactions have largely remained behind the curtains. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) A 19-year-old youth has been arrested on charges of raping and blackmailing a teenager in Rajasthan's Jaipur district, police said on Wednesday. The accused, Imran Khan, took the 14-year-old to a place in Bagru town, 28 km southwest of Jaipur, on April 26 and allegedly raped her. The youth also took some photos and blackmailed her, the police said. The girl narrated the incident to her family on Tuesday, following which an FIR was lodged and Khan was arrested, the police added. (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Trump administration is proposing a hike in the application fee to increase funding for the expansion of an apprentice programme, which trains American youths in technology related activities, Labour Secretary Alexander Acosta told US lawmakers. Testifying before a Congressional committee on annual budget of the Department of Labour for the fiscal year 2020 beginning October 1, 2019, Acosta, however, did not give details of the proposed increase in H-1B filing fee and as to which categories of applicants it would be enforced on. Arguing that foreigners hurt American workers by competing for jobs and driving down wages, the Trump administration has tighten the noose around the program. Listen to this podcast for more. Popular rose-flavoured drink Rooh Afza has almost disappeared from the Indian market. Every year, Rooh Afza is widely consumed during the holy month of Ramzan, since it's a favourite drink of many Muslims after a day-long fast. The Hamdard Laboratories, maker of Rooh Afza syrup, has released a statement, in which the company has said that the shortage of some key herbal ingredients is the reason for scarce Rooh Afza supplies. "We are facing supply constraints of certain herbal ingredients. We hope to fix the demand supply gap within a week," said Mansoor Ali, chief sales and marketing officer at Hamdard. Even though the official stance is lack of key ingredients, there are reports the real season for the shortage in supply can be a rift in the Rooh Afza founder's family. "There is a short supply since over four months now due to family feud. Production was stopped in November last year and resumed in mid-April," said an executive on condition of anonymity According to reports, the great-grandson of Hamdard founder- Abdul Majeed and his cousin Hammad Ahmed are at loggerheads over the control of the company. Ahmed has reportedly filed a case against Majeed, and speculation is that the legal dispute has led to the stalling of production of Rooh Afza. However, Mansoor Ali discarded all such speculations saying: "The speculation about any rift is completely baseless. These are rumours." Whatever the reason might be, this shortage has put Rooh Afza aficionados in a state of dismay this summer. Many of them from across the country took to social media to express their disappointment over not getting their favourite summer drink. @kavitadutta_ wrote on Twitter: "It's a drink that takes most of us back to our childhood. Never thought there'd be a time when we would get to hear of its shortage!" It's a drink that takes most of us back to our childhood. Never thought there'd be a time when we would get to hear of its shortage! #Roohafza https://t.co/JbDqRDO52o Kavita Datta (@kavitadatta_) May 8, 2019 "Major crisis for Indian Muslims as there's a shortage of rooh afza. ummi even tried making homemade rooh afza because my brother won't break his fast without it(sic)," wrote one @TharannumW on the microblogging site. Major crisis for Indian Muslims as there's a shortage of rooh afza ummi even tried making homemade rooh afza because my brother won't break his fast without it .#RoohAfza bibliophile 5.5 (@TharannumW) May 8, 2019 "#Ramzan without @RoohAfzaIndia can't imagine. my fridge waiting 4 it. #hamdard do something.even can't buy it higher price due to not deliver partner @amazonIN #RoohAfza #Amazon," tweeted @shadababe04. #Ramzan without @RoohAfzaIndia can't imagine. my fridge waiting 4 it. #hamdard do something.even can't buy it higher price due to not deliver partner @amazonIN #RoohAfza#Amazon pic.twitter.com/WZF4lc3JYB md shadab abedin (@shadababe04) May 7, 2019 Some got lucky though. User @Asif_OO posted an image with a box containing six bottles of Rooh Afza. Today i brought 6 bottle #RoohAfza pic.twitter.com/6Wzc0esXCl Asif (@Asif_OO) May 7, 2019 Twitter user @TheSignOfFive posted an image with a fresh made pitcher of Rooh Afza with the bottle which she got shipped from her home. "I got Ma to tote two of these all the way from home because there IS a shortage!! Summers without #RoohAfza ?! Unthinkable!!," the post read. I got Ma to tote two of these all the way from home because there IS a shortage!! Summers without #RoohAfza ?! Unthinkable!! (I do regret to inform fans like myself that the taste has been a tad diluted, the bottle very svelte ) pic.twitter.com/NNQhQi8pA5 Lavanya (@TheSignOfFive) May 8, 2019 Interestingly, Hamdard Laboratories Waqf Pakistan has offered to supply Rooh Afza to India via Wagah border in Amritsar in view of the shortage. The Hamdard Laboratories came into existence in the early 1900s. Interestingly, Hamdard Laboratories Waqf Pakistan has offered to supply Rooh Afza to India via Wagah border in Amritsar in view of the shortage. The Hamdard Laboratories came into existence in the early 1900s. "We can supply RoohAfza and RoohAfzaGO to India during this Ramzan. We can easily send trucks through Wahga border if permitted by Indian Government," tweeted Usama Qureshi, MD and CEO of Pakistani Hamdard. Brother @DilliDurAst, we can supply #RoohAfza and #RoohAfzaGO to India during this Ramzan. We can easily send trucks through Wahga border if permitted by Indian Government. Usama Qureshi (@UsamaQureshy) May 7, 2019 The original Hamdard Laboratories was founded by Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed in old Delhi in 1906. The one in Pakistan was founded by his younger son Hakeem Mohammed Said, who migrated to Karachi after Partition in 1947. Later, Hamdard expanded to Bangladesh after its creation in 1971. ALSO READ: This Tata Group firm has turned Rs 1 lakh investment to Rs 26 lakh in 10 years ALSO READ: Tencent shuts 'PUBG' in China, shifts users to a patriotic video game Hamdard India said to BusinessToday.in that their product Rooh afza is available to people across the country. In a press release Hamdard India told BusinessToday.in, "Hamdard Laboratories India, a 100-year old manufacturer of iconic Unani brands and herbal FMCG products is happy to state that the production of RoohAzfa is on at peak capacity at the factories. Due to Ramzan and peak summer season coinciding, there has been an unprecedented demand in the market." The company further added, "Hamdard was facing supply constraints of certain herbal ingredients which were not available due to a temporary shortage. RoohAfza is now available in the market and can be bought from major retail stores and grocery outlets across the country. Full capacity production and a well-planned distribution infrastructure are ensuring it is reaching all corners of the country.' (This story has been updated with a statement from Hamdard India) (Edited by Mansi Jaswal) A powerful blast outside a famous Sufi shrine in Pakistan's second largest Lahore city on Wednesday killed at least five persons, including two policemen, and injured many others as the country marks the fasting month of Ramzan, police said. The blast targeted a van carrying police officers outside the Data Darbar shrine, the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia. According to initial police reports, the explosion took place close to two police vehicles near Gate 2 of Data Darbar in Punjab province. Three police officials died in the blast, a security guard and a resident were also among the dead, Deputy Inspector General Operations Lahore Ashfaq Ahmad Khan was quoted as saying by the Geo News. At least 24 people are being treated for injuries, some of whom are in critical condition, he added. The exact nature of the blast was being ascertained, and it was too early to determine if it was a suicide attack, the official told media from the site of the incident. Police have cordoned off the area and ascertaining the nature of the blast. A police official said their teams are working on evaluating the incident. "All departments, including the Counter Terrorism Department are working. We will not spare any efforts for the security of the citizens," he added. Prime Minister Imran Khan has strongly denounced the blast outside Data Darbar in Lahore and sought a report from the authorities, Radio Pakistan reported. The premier has commiserated with the bereaved families and directed authorities concerned to provide best possible medical treatment to those injured in the blast. Entry to the Data Darbar was sealed in the aftermath of the blast. The shrine is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year. In 2010, the shrine was targeted in a suicide attack that killed more than 40 people, and is guarded by heavy security. Also read: Over 62 per cent turnout in 5th phase; Violence in J-K and West Bengal Also read: Indian Army to acquire 464 Russian-origin battle tanks Domestic carrier Vistara is planning to acquire aircraft from the fleet of Jet Airways to support its expansion on international routes. As part of Tata Group's plan to bolster its aviation business, the airline is planning to acquire 16 planes from Jet's now-grounded fleet, reports suggest. Vistara, a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore airlines, might take over 10 Boeing 777s, at least three single-aisle Boeing 737s, and also a few wide-body Airbus A330 planes, the Business Standard reported. Tata Group will discuss the acquisition plan with its aviation business soon, the report said. Vistara will use the acquired aircraft for launching long-haul international flights to Europe and North America, the daily added. This will be a change of pace for the full-service carrier, which earlier intended to launch international flights on short-haul routes first, and then gradually upscale to medium and long-haul routes. A reason behind this could be the new opportunities that have emerged after Jet grounded operations. ALSO READ: Jet Airways crisis: Airline's pilots union urges SC to direct SBI to release funds After flag carrier Air India, Jet Airways was the only airline which offered direct flights to Europe and North America. With Jet out of the picture and Air India's continued financial woes, Vistara might be planning to move ahead with the launch of long-haul flights to capture the space that has opened up in the segment. Acquiring Boeing 777s from Jet Airways could help Vistara expedite its plans for long-haul flights to Europe as they will come with their own pilots, crew and maintenance staff. This will allow Vistara to put them into operation right away. Acquiring more planes, however, could increase troubles for the Tata group-led airline. With increase in aviation fuel prices, the cash burn for an expanded fleet will be high. Adding more aircraft also pose the challenge of managing a varied fleet before Vistara. ALSO READ: 'Your sacrifices are greater, nobler': Naresh Goyal writes heart-warming letter to protesting Jet Airways employees Earlier, in accordance to its original plans, Vistara had ordered six Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which will be inducted only from January 2020. The order was kept small as there were limited slots and parking bays, the report said. As the scenario changed with Jet's downfall, Vistara urged Boeing to fast track the delivery of the 787, but without success, it added. This forced Vistara to consider Boeing 777 planes, 10 of which it is planning to acquire from Jet Airways fleet. Jet's Boeing 777 aircraft were financed by a consortium of foreign lenders and Export and Import Bank of US (US). EXIM had threatened to repossess the aircraft after the debt-laden air carrier failed to repay its loans. But Indian banks offered to pay Rs 400 crore to the bank in exchange of ownership of five Jet Airways aircraft. ALSO READ: SpiceJet to launch 12 new domestic flights, GoAir offers discount on bookings ALSO WATCH: Samsung foldable dream might have fizzled out but that's not stopping Google to deep dive into the foldable world. Google has shown interest in the foldable phones and it could be the next big name to join the list of companies working on the technology. Other than Samsung, Huawei, Oppo, Xiaomi and Motorola are also working on the foldable smartphones. The Mountain View based search giant has already announced support for foldable phones in Android Q. However, there is still sometime before the Pixel foldable phones will see the light of day as Google doesn't see clear use cases of the technology. "We're definitely prototyping the technology. We've been doing it for a long time," Mario Queiroz, Google's Pixel development lead, told CNET last week in an interview. According to Querioz, however, "I don't think there's a clear use case yet." Google exploring the idea of the foldable phone isn't surprising as the company has already said that it is excited about the upcoming smartphones that will run on the Android operating system. Post the Samsung's debacle, it is understandable that the companies are being cautious. "We're prototyping foldable displays and many other new hardware technologies, and have no related product announcements to make at this time," Queiroz said. Recently, the preview units of Samsung Galaxy Fold broke for some users and the screens failed during the testing phase. Samsung's folding design was initially hailed as the future in a field that has seen a few surprises since Apple Inc's iPhone in 2007. The plastic display screens are still not ready for primetime and Samsung realised that the hard way. The company has since pushed the release date indefinitely to sort out the problems in the display technology. Google, it seems, is looking to iron out the problems in the foldable tech before coming out with a final product. Edited By: Udit Verma Also Read: Why Samsung Galaxy Fold screens are breaking? Also Read: Samsung's $2,000 foldable phone has a problem - the screen breaks! Also Read: Galaxy Fold bend test: Samsung's foldable phone can withstand up to 2,00,000 folds Modi government's PM-Kisan scheme, since April 1, has benefitted a little over 2.25 crore farmers, including 1.08 crore in Uttar Pradesh alone. The farmers have received the second instalment of Rs 2,000 each under the PM-Kisan scheme. However, another 86 lakh farmers, who received only the first instalment of Rs 2,000, are still waiting for the second instalment of Rs 2,000. The scheme, estimated to cost Rs 75,000 crore yearly, took effect from December 1, 2018. The government's plan was to make sure that the scheme's benefits reached as many eligible farmers as possible before the Lok Sabha elections 2019. They have created a list of around 4.76 crore farmers for the money transfer, the Financial Express reported, quoting official data. Also Read: India's alcohol consumption up by 38% in seven years: Lancet Study The PM Kisan-scheme was announced by Piyush Goyal, who was then Finance Minister during the interim Budget in February. In his budget speech, he said it would benefit 12 crore farmers owning up to 2 hectares land, with each getting Rs 6,000 a year in three equal instalments. However, due to the Election Commission's model code of conduct, which came into effect on March 10, non-cooperation among some Opposition-ruled states like Madhya Pradesh and West Bengal hit the government's plans. The government staff, from both central and state, deployed for election duty have also undermined the NDA goverment's efforts to transfer the initial two instalments to all farmers in the beneficiary list. A senior official, about the scheme, said, "Initially, Aadhaar was not mandatory for the PM-Kisan cash transfer to beneficiary bank accounts and the payment was made even if a farmer had only Aadhaar enrollment." "However, since the guidelines subsequently made Aadhaar compulsory, the farmer was required to produce the Aadhaar number and thus, the process got delayed as officials have been busy on poll duty", he added. All BJP-ruled states like -- Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat -- are the top performers in transferring the second instalment, which covers more than 1.41 crore farmers in these states. (Edited by Vivek Dubey) Also Read: Taiwan urges India to improve bilateral ties in parallel with China: Official Also Read: Leaving out shell companies would seriously underestimate GDP: Former Chief Statistician The Guardian newspaper has today reported that the rights of Irish people in the UK and British citizens in Ireland are to be guaranteed in a Brexit side deal to be signed by the countries two governments. Sources say the memorandum of understanding will put the rights already conferred on citizens of both nations under the common travel area (CTA) on to a more secure footing. According to the report, the deal will be signed by David Lidington, the Cabinet Office minister, and Irelands deputy prime minister, Simon Coveney, in a meeting in London on Wednesday afternoon before the British-Irish intergovernmental conference. The conference was organised by the two governments after the killing of the journalist Lyra McKee by dissident Irish terrorists as part of a drive to restore power-sharing in Northern Ireland. The deal is the result of two years of work to ensure the rights both have under the CTA agreements and under EU freedom of movement are protected after Brexit. It will benefit the estimated 300,000 Britons living in Ireland and about 350,000 Irish people in the UK. Sources have confirmed that Wednesdays deal will mean arrangements to ensure reciprocal access to social insurance, child benefit and pensions continues, with a further deal promised on access to education and healthcare. The Guardian claims that it has been widely assumed that this comes from the special historical links between the two countries and specifically the 1949 Ireland Act, which officially ended the countrys status as a British dominion, and a further series of immigration laws and bilateral deals. Source: www.businessworld.ie A view of the Monster Building, a location known for its incredibly dense apartment blocks, in Quarry Bay, Hong Kong, on Dec. 18. Photo: IC Photo Hong Kongs property market may be on an upswing, but market observers warned that homebuyers shouldnt throw caution to the wind. Potential buyers should remain prudent when assessing the local housing market as the outcome of the ongoing U.S.-China trade negotiations remains uncertain, said Joseph Tsang, managing director of real estate services firm JLL in Hong Kong, who echoed a similar warning on Monday by the chief of the regions de-facto central bank. The warnings came in response to a surge in property sales over the weekend that resulted in the citys real estate market having its best day for new home sales in two and a half years on Saturday. Developers sold nearly 1,100 new units on that day, Caixin has learned from industry data providers. Over the weekend, developer Wheelock Properties Ltd. sold all 500 new units in its Montara residential project. More than 18,000 applicants competed for an apartment in the development, making it the fourth most popular new residential project in Hong Kongs history. The last time that a new housing development received that many applications was in August 2017. The two most popular projects since records began hit the market in 1997, the year before the Asian financial crisis. In an interview this week, Tsang told Caixin that the recent rebound in Hong Kongs property market came as local buyers regained their confidence in the economy, thanks in part to the positive outlook for the U.S.-China trade talks since the Lunar New Year in early February. Lower prices compared with last year have also driven deal-making. Still, Tsang advised caution because Hong Kongs economic prospects are largely influenced by international trade especially between the worlds two biggest economies, he said. Any setback in the trade negotiations would take a toll on the regions economy. The negotiations had appeared to be progressing smoothly until this weekend, when U.S. President Donald Trump took to Twitter to criticize the trade talks with China for moving too slowly, and threatened to subject another $325 billion worth of products to additional tariffs, rattling stock markets in the U.S. and China. Tsangs warning followed a similar call for caution by Norman Chan, chief executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. In a Legislative Committee meeting on Monday, Chan suggested that local residents need to carefully examine their capability to repay their debts, as the current low mortgage rates are subject to change. After a tumble from a recent peak in August, Hong Kongs property market has been on an upswing in recent months. The average price for a private residence in the city has been rising since January, with the latest report by the Hong Kong Rating and Valuation Department suggesting that the average price jumped 5.04% from December to March. Besides rising prices, trading volume in the market has also surged. Hong Kongs Land Registry recorded 7,822 completed deals in April worth HK$70.1 billion ($8.93 billion). Those respective figures are nearly triple and double those recorded for December. Hong Kong again tops the list of the worlds most expensive housing markets, according to a ranking created earlier this year by U.S. real estate firm CBRE Group Inc. In Hong Kong, the average home carries a price tag of $1.24 million. Contact reporter Isabelle Li (liyi@caixin.com) Our Promise: Welcome to Care2, the world's largest community for good. Here, you'll find over 45 million like-minded people working towards progress, kindness, and lasting impact. Care2 Stands Against: bigots, racists, bullies, science deniers, misogynists, gun lobbyists, xenophobes, the willfully ignorant, animal abusers, frackers, and other mean people. If you find yourself aligning with any of those folks, you can move along, nothing to see here. Care2 Stands With: humanitarians, animal lovers, feminists, rabble-rousers, nature-buffs, creatives, the naturally curious, and people who really love to do the right thing. You are our people. You Care. We Care2. Two residential solar companies have now been accused in separate lawsuits of discriminating against African American employees in warehouses. Six former employees of New Jersey-based Momentum Solar sued the company Monday in federal court, saying it fostered a work environment permeated with vile racism. Last year, a former employee of Vivint Solar Inc., one of the countrys largest residential solar-panel installers, said in a lawsuit that he faced racial harassment at a warehouse in Sacramento, California. In both suits, workers said they were subjected to racial epithets and harassment. Among many examples alleged in the complaint against Momentum, employees said supervisors used the n-word. The suit against Vivint, filed in California Superior Court, said white employees cordoned off their desks with cardboard boxes, with a sign saying white only. A lawyer for Momentum said in a statement that the suit was filed by disgruntled former employees and that the allegations had no basis in law or fact. Vivint Chief Executive Officer David Bywater said last year that he was deeply disturbed by the suit and that the company has a zero-tolerance policy for racial discrimination and harassment. Copyright 2021 Bloomberg. Photo: CTV News A North Vancouver entrepreneur is keeping up with the Kardashians over her company's "Strong as a Mother" slogan. Tamara Komuniecki has been selling shirts with the slogan for two years, but says U.S. retailer Good American, co-owned by celeb Khloe Kardashian, has knocked off the design on its own products. "I don't want to get a lawyer involved. I don't want to face their legal team because they have money I will never have to be able to defend themselves, Komuniecki told CTV News. Komuniecki has a Canadian trademark on the design, but has been frustrated by other knockoffs on sites like Etsy. "Intellectual property issues are kind of territorial. We do have treaties that go across different countries that allow a party in one country to enforce against a party in another country, but fundamentally you can have a very strong Canadian trademark that will prevent anybody from trading on your brand in Canada, but it may not be of any value in the United States or India or China or other place," says lawyer Ryan Black. While Komuniecki holds the Canadian trademark, another company owns the U.S. trademark on similar slogan strong like a mother," which complicates any legal defence. "I don't think I have a lot of options. I don't think I have legal recourse, and I wouldn't even go down that avenue if I did, said Komuniecki. with files from CTV Vancouver Operator: Thank you for standing by. The call will start in approximately one more minute. Again, thank you for standing by. Welcome and thank you for standing by. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. During the question and answer session, please press star 1. Todays conference is being recorded. If you have any objections, you may disconnect at this time. Now I would like to turn the meeting over to Kathy. Thank you, you may begin. Kathy Harben: Thank you, Diane. Thank you all for joining us today for the release of a new CDC vital signs. This has the latest data on pregnancy-related deaths. Were joined today by the Principle Deputy Director, Dr. Ann Schuchat, and also by Rear Admiral Dr. Wanda Barfield. She is the director of CDCs Division of Reproductive Health, and she is also an Assistant Surgeon General in the U.S. Public Health Service. Dr. Schuchat and Barfield will stay on for the Q&A session. During the Q&A, well also be joined by Dr. Emily Peterson. She is a medical officer in the Division of Reproductive Health, lead of CDCs Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System, and also the lead author of the Vital Signs article. Ill now turn the call over to Dr. Schuchat. Dr. Schuchat: Good afternoon and thank you for joining us today. CDC works 24/7 to protect Americans against health threats. Each month in CDCs Vital Signs report, we focus on one of these threats and what can be done about it. Todays report contains a new perspective on the issue of pregnancy-related death in our country. That is the death of a woman during pregnancy, at delivery and even up to a year afterward from a pregnancy complication, which is a chain of events initiated by pregnancy, or the aggravation of an unrelated condition by the physiologic effects of pregnancy. Tragically, nearly 700 women still die each year of complications of pregnancy in the United States. These are women in their prime, who leave loved ones behind-often stunned with what has happened. Todays Vital Signs brings us new insight into key opportunities to make these tragic occurrences as rare as possible, through a variety of prevention strategies that we hope can make an impact. So, heres the big picture of what we report learned in this Vital Signs- Nearly a third (31%) of pregnancy-related deaths happen during pregnancy, just over a third (36%) happen during delivery or the week after, and exactly a third (33%) happen one week to one year after delivery. The leading causes of death differ when women die during pregnancy vs. thereafter. Heart disease and stroke caused more than 1 in 3 deaths overall. Obstetric emergencies, like severe bleeding and amniotic fluid embolism (which is, when amniotic fluid enters a mothers bloodstream), caused most deaths at the time of delivery. In the week after delivery, severe bleeding, high blood pressure, and infection were most common. Cardiomyopathy (or weakened heart muscle) caused the largest portion of deaths in the time period six weeks to 1 year after delivery. Our most recent data confirm persistent racial disparities. From 2011-2015, black and American Indian/Alaska Native women were about three times as likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause as white women. Alarmingly, states Mortality Review Committees found that about 3 in 5 pregnancy-related deaths could potentially be prevented. Our new analysis of these data found that the proportion of these deaths that are preventable didnt differ by race/ethnicity. Preventing pregnancy-related deaths need actions from states and communities in which pregnant and postpartum women live, as well as the healthcare providers, facilities and systems that serve them. There are big-picture systems-level changes we can help ensure all pregnant women receive high quality care during pregnancy, at delivery, and up to a year afterward. Two examples are standardizing response to obstetric emergencies and making it easier for women to receive the prenatal and postpartum care that they need. There are some basic tenants of quality care like detecting and managing chronic conditions before, during, and after pregnancy and having open, ongoing conversations with women about warning signs and acting quickly to address them. Making some of these improvements will not be easy. It could require reworking systems that have been in place for years. The good news, though, is that there are already systematic approaches being developed and implemented in many areas around the country that can be used as a model to support improvements to save the lives of women. The bottom line is that too many women are dying largely from preventable deaths associated with their pregnancies. We have the means to close gaps in the care they receive. We cant prevent every one of these tragedies, but we can and should do more. Now, Im going to turn it over to Dr. Wanda Barfield, who will share specific findings of todays report. Dr. Barfield: Thank you, Dr. Schuchat. In this Vital Signs, CDC analyzed two data sources to get both a quantitative and a qualitative perspective on this issue and potential solutions. First, for the quantitative piece, we examined 2011-2015 national data from CDCs Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System, or PMSS. Then, for the qualitative picture, we turned to detailed data on pregnancy-related deaths from 2013-2017 from 13 State Maternal Mortality Review Committees. Id like to stop here and briefly explain what these Maternal Mortality Review Committees, or MMRCs, as we call them, are. MMRCs are multidisciplinary groups of experts at the state or local level that review maternal deaths and the circumstances around them to better understand how to prevent future deaths. These committees examine all available data sources, including medical records and social services records, to determine the factors that contributed to the death, determine preventability, and suggest specific prevention strategies. This is a critical level of information we cannot get from reviewing just death certificates alone, and this is why MMRCs are so important to our understanding of this issue. Analysis of data from the MMRCs found that, as Dr. Schuchat mentioned, 3 in 5 deaths were preventable and that each was the result of several missed opportunities along the way. The MMRCs highlighted specific suggestions of promising prevention strategies to address contributing factors at the healthcare provider, facility and system levels, as well as at the patient and community levels. For instance. At the healthcare facility and systems levels, strategies included standardizing response to obstetric emergencies as a way to make sure women receive recommended care when hemorrhaging or experiencing infection. Also, developing policies to ensure high-risk women are delivered at hospitals with specialized healthcare providers and equipment, a concept we refer to as risk-appropriate care. And third, encouraging cross-communication and collaboration among providers. At the state and community levels, MMRCs suggested addressing social determinants of health, including providing access to housing and transportation were important issues. Also, addressing delivery hospitals for risk-appropriate care. At the healthcare provider level, strategies included helping patients manage chronic conditions, communicating about warning signs, and using tools to flag warning signs early. At the patient and family level, the MMRCs underscored the value in knowing and communicating about warning symptoms of complications. So, we have a lot of opportunity for improvement and preventing maternal deaths. This is something we at CDC are deeply committed to. As weve discussed throughout this briefing, we are continuing to work on surveillance and data analysis to monitor this issue at the national level. But, we are also supporting state and local efforts. We provide technical assistance and resources to MMRCs, so that they can effectively review maternal deaths and make valuable prevention recommendations. Were very excited that this fall, through the Preventing Maternal Deaths: Supporting Maternal Mortality Review Committees funding opportunity, we will provide up to as many as 25 MMRCs across the country to collect robust, accurate data that can inform data-driven actions and eliminate preventable maternal deaths. We already fund the efforts of 13 state perinatal quality collaboratives. These are state-based initiatives that aim to improve the quality of care that mothers and their babies receive. These groups play a critical role in translating the information coming from MMRCs into quality, standardized care. We talked a little bit earlier about risk-appropriate care. To help states standardize their assessment of delivery hospitals for the level of maternal and newborn care that they provide, CDC offers the CDC Levels of Care Assessment Tool (also known as LOCATe) and provides technical assistance to those who want to use it. And, finally, through this work, the work Vital Signs, we are working to educate the public about pregnancy-related death and how to prevent it. This is a very complex issue. The factors that contribute to maternal deaths are as diverse as the women themselves. So, our prevention efforts must be as diverse. There is a role here for everyone to play. Now, Ill turn back to our moderator, Kathy Harben. Kathy Harben: Thank you. Diane, were now ready for questions. Operation: Thank you. We will now begin the question and answer session. If you would like to ask a question, please press star 1. Youll be prompted to record your name, to withdraw your question, please press star 2. One moment please to see we have any questions or comments. Susan, WABD Radio, your line is now open. WABE Radio: Hello. Thank you for taking my question. Im calling from Georgia, so my question is basically first are we still number one on the list with the worst maternal death rate, and also lack of Ob/Gyns in rural areas. Is that something you guys would consider as one of those causes? Thank you. Dr. Barfield: Yes, thank you for the question. So the challenge we have in maternal mortality is that numbers have not declined, and we compared to other developed countries as relatively poor in our maternal mortality rate. So your point is well taken in that we have a lot we need to do to improve maternal mortality in the United States. In terms of your other question about Georgia in particular, there are many other parts of the country as well as Georgia where the rural setting is really a challenge with respect to maternal mortality. Part of the tools that were trying to address is the opportunity to look at risk appropriate care and to identify resources as well as innovative opportunities to address the rural challenge for mothers. Issues of access to care are very important. Kathy Harben: Next question, please. Operator: Our next question comes from Erin Michael, Healio.com. Your line is open. Primary Care Today: Im calling from Primary Care Today. Is there anything that primary care physicians specifically can do to prevent pregnancy-related deaths? Dr. Barfield: Yes. Primary care providers as well as many other providers, even in areas that may not be obstetric, have an important role to play. The findings show that chronic decide plays a major role in maternal mortality. So the way that we can all help is through identifying women with chronic conditions and giving them the opportunity to understand their conditions and better manage their health. Kathy Harben: Next question, please. Operator: Our next question comes from Marie Rosenthal. Infectious Disease. Infectious Disease: Hi. I actually have two questions. I was wondering if you could elaborate a little bit on the infectious causes of death. Are we talking about bloodstream infections? Wound infections? And then I was wondering if there was a difference in the deaths between a cesarean or vaginal delivery. Emily Peterson: Hi. This is Emily Peterson. Yes, infection would include both bloodstream infection, wound infections, and others such as kidney infections. In this analysis, we did not analyze vaginal birth compared to cesarean section. Kathy Harben: Next question, please. Operator: Again, as a reminder, if you have further questions or communities, please press star one. Joetta is on the line from WTVT your line is open. WTVT: Thank you for taking my question. I was wondering if you could elaborate on the cardiomyopathy. Are you suggesting these were preexisting conditions that were exacerbated by the pregnancy (which we call the stress test) or were these cardiomyopathies that develop as a result of the pregnancy? Emily Peterson: Thanks for the question. This is Emily Peterson. So, the cardiomyopathy does include pericardium cardiomyopathy, which presents in late pregnancy or within five months of pregnancy generally. But the cardiomyopathy group also includes dilated cardiomyopathy and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy for other types of cardiomyopathy. So, we would think the cardiomyopathy group includes both women who had preexisting heart disease that was identified and those identified in late pregnancy or postpartum. WTVT: Can I ask one more question? On the perinatal collaborative groups, how are they monitoring cardiomyopathy and what interventions have they instituted to try to decrease the deaths? Emily Peterson: So, the perinatal quality collaboratives identify a variety of issues surrounding pregnancy and the postpartum period. So, they do have the opportunity to try to better identify women who are at risk for cardiomyopathy. But in terms of the specific protocols, it may vary depending on the PTC and what they identify as the priority. WTVT: Okay. Thank you. Kathy Harben: Next question, please. Operator: Ronny Reuben, The New York Times, your line is open. New York Times: Thank you. I was wondering if you can address the issue of racial bias in healthcare and healthcare systems. To what extent is that playing a role in these very high relative rate of maternal deaths among black women and Native American/Alaskan women? And did you look at thewas there a comparative analysis? I know you say 60% of the deaths are preventable across racial lines. But did you look at what factors more Are there time periods with the pregnancy and postpartum period that are more risky for black women and Native American women? There was a mention of a higher death rate in the late postpartum period for black women. Dr. Barfield: So. So, the study did show that during the late New York Times: Im sorry. Is this Dr. Peterson? Dr. Barfield: Oh. Hi. This is Admiral Wanda Barfield. New York Times: OK. Dr. Barfield: So, our analysis did show that black women were more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications at that later period. However, your point is a little taken about the issues surrounding racial and ethnic disparities in maternal deaths. What were seeing in terms of the literature and work thats going on through a variety of researchers throughout the country. There are really sort four major areas. One is the impact of structural racism and implicit bias on health. There has been a growing body of research that is showing that structural racism is playing a role with regard to these disparities. For example, issues of prenatal care initiation thats been associated with the endorsement of experiences of racism. Weve also seen persistent racial disparities regardless of certain factors such as educational attainment. So, there is increasing concern that this plays a role. In addition, to that and perhaps even layered with that is the variation in hospital quality. So, that theres been evidence that some disparities can be explained through variation in hospital quality and there have been recent studies that have shown racial and ethnic minority women deliver at different and lower quality hospitals than white women. And that these hospitals disproportionately care for black women at delivery and they may have increased poor outcomes in those hospitals. Even the hospital that is care for both black and white women that the hospital quality may be on the lower in those areas. Then the other issue is really underlying chronic conditions. So, chronic conditions such as hypertension or cardiovascular disease are more prevalent in black women, and these conditions are associated with the increased risk of pregnancy-related mortality. Then sort of the last general issue is really access to care. Again, access really to quality care. And were seeing increasing evidence about the performance of access to risk appropriate care. We know that for example, American Indian/Alaskan native women are more likely to live in rural areas and that may create additional challenges to getting, receiving access to quality care. So, all these factors are contributing. New York Times: Just to clarify, you said theres implicit bias getting prenatal care experience racism when prenatal care is initiated. Can you explain what you mean by that? Dr. Barfield: So, for example. There may be factors in terms of when women are seen. The types of discussions theyre having in terms of information. Trying to be better informed in that care. Theres also concerns about bias in the terms of the quality care theyre receiving in terms of advice, issues of trust, establishing the relationship with the provider. So this is these are issues that have been described in the literature in a variety of patient encounters with providers. But its not just prenatal care. Again, the hospital factors as well as the postpartum period is another major area of concern with regard to bias. What we have seen from the stories that women have told many are feeling theyre not being heard in terms of their concerns or conditions around the pregnancy and postpartum period. New York Times: Ok. Thank you. Inaudible .. from pregnancy through the end. Slightly more increase in problems through the end of the late postpartum period and maybe these things are developing early on and being missed. But is there any other discrepancy along the way that you see? Dr. Barfield: So, I think this is where the opportunity for Maternal Mortality Review Committees could really be helpful in this regard. Because we know that care goes beyond the hospital facility and there are circumstances of care that women are experiencing that we need to more specifically address. Particularly with regard to issues of discrimination and racism and care as well as the circumstances that theyre living in that may affect their health. Next question? Operator: Gabby inaudible of U.S. News and World Report. Your line is now open. U.S. News and World Report: Hi. Thanks for doing the call. So, theres been concern from folks in the maternal health field that many states are not tracking this issue very closely. Can you address that a little bit and just how comprehensive is this data and new analysis? Dr. Schuchat: Let me begin. This is Dr. Schuchat. This is a really important are, and the program has mentioned in the report, there are 13 state Maternal Mortality Review Communities that experiences described and were excited about the opportunity to support more through funding announcement in the fall. But in the absence of data, it is very difficult to prioritize investments and improvement efforts. So, we think its very important that every state be able to track their both mortality and severe morbidity that women experience so that priority improvements can be made. The data quality, completeness, and timeliness are critical to us understanding this problem and getting better solutions. Next question. Operator: If you have any further questions or comment, suppress star 1 and record your name. Please press star 1. Kathy Harben: Thank you, Diane. Hearing no more questions, Id like to thank Dr. Schuchat, Dr. Barfield and Dr. Peterson for joining us today. Thank you, also to the reporters who joined. If you have follow up questions, you can reach us at CDCs media office at 404-369-2386 or e-mail us at media@cdc.gov. We will be posting a transcript later today on our newsroom website. Thank you again, and this concludes our call. Operator: This concludes todays conference call. Thank you for participating. You may disconnect at this time. Irans cement exports to Iraq suspended ICR Newsroom By 08 May 2019 Iranian cement exports to Iraq have been suspended, said Hamid Hosseini, secretary general of Iran-Iraq Joint Chamber of Commerce, Trend reports. He said Irans exports to Iraq have been suspended for more than a year due to dumping claims. Iranian export companies were not in possession of facts to prove the opposite, he said. Thus, Iraq has first increased its fees for imported cement from Iran, he noted. Then imports of cement from Iran were periodically banned. Published under Sara Kunnemann, art teacher at Lake Forest Middle School in Cleveland, said her art students "did some amazing projects" after she was awarded two Allied Arts Council of Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce Arts in Education grants totaling $463. The funds from the grant went towards kits to make sketchbooks, drawing and painting materials, linoleum printmaking blocks and printmaking supplies. Ms. Kunnemann was also awarded a grant through Bradley/Cleveland Public Education Foundation for a new kiln, clay, glaze and clay tools totaling $3,497.82. She said, "These grants have transformed my classroom. "The Arts in Education grant made it possible for two Advanced Art classes and an after school Art Club made up of 85 students to do a sketchbook and printmaking project that I didnt have money to afford. A sketchbook is such a valuable tool for an artist, but they can be expensive. This grant gave each student the opportunity to design and create their own sketchbook that they could then keep to fill with their own art. "Thanks to this generous grant last year and this year are the first times I have been able to make sketchbooks with my students and they absolutely loved the project. Printmaking is one of my students favorite projects. I notice that they get so excited about the actual project itself and are always so proud of the finished product. "The BCPEF grant I was awarded allowed four classes of seventh graders and the two Advanced Art 8th grade classes, as well as art club to create clay pottery and sculptures this year. My kiln broke last year and without this grant our school would not have been able to do clay in art. It allowed 200 students to do this project just this year and will continue to influence the future of art at Lake Forest Middle School for years to come. "My students learned so much during the lesson. The past three years I was able to do projects with my students that I ordinarily wouldnt have been able to afford thanks to the generous grants I received from the Allied Arts Council of Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce and BCPEF." If you are keeping a play-by-play tally in the United Auto Workers efforts to unionize Chattanoogas Volkswagen Assembly Plant, it isnt a long reach to wonder why the scandal-ridden UAW just doesnt whistle up the dogs and dash the campfire with a pail of water. As desperate as the UAW may well be, its membership has dwindled to record lows and is going to get worst later this summer when The Big Three automakers are actually eager to tussle over contract negotiations. When the National Labor Relations Board somewhat surprisingly abruptly put the negotiations with Volkswagen on hold last weekend, industry experts called it a big blow to UAWs efforts. In 2015 the UAW won a smaller election with a group of 160 maintenance workers, but VW has refused to bargain with the union group. A year must pass after a union certification at a facility before there can be another union election, which allows for adequate bargaining time. VW argued that the one-year ban was still in effect since it hadnt technically started bargaining with the union. The company previously refused to bargain with the smaller unit, saying that it improperly segmented workers at the facility and that it would be more appropriate to include all workers. It had appealed the legality of the smaller maintenance unit. But, far worse, the UAW is getting mauled as its membership is at a record low. Over 38,000 quit paying dues last year, General Motors just announced the closing of four plants by years end, and a far-reaching scandal that has earned prison time for eight Fiat-Chrysler executives is ongoing. On Monday Fiat-Chrysler actually used robo-calls to tell autoworkers they would join an entire shift on the assembly line that had already been laid off (about 1,400) at the Belvidere (Illinois) plant. Last month 1,500 were laid off in Windsor, Ontario (just over the border from Detroit) and General Motors layoffs now total over 14,000. John, a second-shift worker, told the wsws.org site, Im hearing from our illustrious union that (Fiat-Chrysler) is forcing us to move to Toledo. If we dont, theyll cut our unemployment and benefits. We also hear there are 4,500m plus-or-minus temporary part-time employees at Toledo and they going to replace them with us. Additionally, sometime later today (May 8) the president of the UAW in Saginaw, Mich., will meet with Nexteer Automotive, that hires 5,000 full-time employees and is the largest employer in the county. Tom Hurst has been told he will get the details off a large layoff and for the UAW such news is horrifying UAW Local 699 has 3,000 active members yet get this 7,900 retirees that depend on dues. It has been learned Rick Berman, a union-busting lawyer who is so adroit he is called Dr. Evil by CBS producers on 60 Minutes, is leading the anti-union effort in Chattanooga and in an exclusive interview with Payday Report, Berman freely laid out his media strategy to defeat the UAW whenever that time comes: * * * AN EXCERPT FROM Bermans Anti-UAW Strategy at VW In Chattanooga (Written by Mike Elk for Payday Report on April 25, 2019) We are looking at all of the misbehavior and the fraud practiced on the UAW members that have only recently come to light, and we are giving it some exposure, says Berman of a series of ads highlighting the conviction of 4 top UAW officials for accepting $4.5 million in bribes from Chrysler in exchange for taking concessions from the company at the bargaining table behind the backs of their members. The ads, which first appeared in the Chattanooga Times-Free Press as well as in the Detroit Free Press this weekend, focus heavily on how the UAW has had to spend $1.5 million in union dues to defend itself against the federal bribery investigation according to Department of Labor records. Berman says next he intends to focus on how the UAW paid for non-union construction labor to build a $1.3 million cottage for retired UAW President Dennis William at the UAWs 1,000-acre retreat on Black Lake in Northern Michigan. The ads also highlight a website, which Berman has set up, UAWInvestigations.com, which links to news articles on the corruption scandals plaguing the UAW. The site also highlights a 2017 New York Times investigation into how UAW representatives at Ford plants in the midwest routinely refused to file sexual harassment complaints on behalf of their female workforce. The aim, he says, is to sow doubt in workers minds about whether the UAW really will represent them. Knowing about the UAW would be enough for me to vote no, I wouldnt give my money to those guys, says Berman. All you gotta do is read the newspaper and figure out how corrupt they are and I dont know if I would want to join. Berman says he thinks its a message that could persuade a lot of workers in the non-union South to vote against the UAW. It will resonate with a lot of them, says Berman. Whether its the main issue, I dont know. There are a lot of issues.A lot of people dont like [union] seniority systems because they cant move along based on their own abilities if the line is too long to get promoted. There are people who dont like giving up union dues, there are people who dont like being threatened with the possibility of a strike or a work stoppage, says Berman. Everybodys got their own reason for why they dont want to join a union. Despite the fact that Gallup opinion polling shows that union approval is at its highest rate in 15 years with 61% of Americans approving of unions, Berman says that even people who might see themselves theoretically as pro-unions can be turned against them. They may be in favor of organized labor in a poll, but Im not certain how many of them would vote yes to join a union election in their workplacethats a very different question, Berman points out. It goes back to you may think unions are good, but you might not want to join one because of all the rules, regulations, and costs. ALSO FROM BERMAN: Its not a campaign about Chattanooga, its not a campaign about union organizing, its a campaign about the UAW, he said. royexum@aol.com World renowned Bible teacher Dr. Warren W. Wiersbe died on May 2, at the age of 89. He wore many hats in the Christian community. They included pastor, teacher and writer of more than 160 books. Dr. Wiersbe had several Chattanooga connections. He was a personal friend of the late Dr. Lee Roberson, longtime pastor of Highland Park Baptist Church and former WMBW radio station manager Dean Sipple. WDYN radio general manager Tom Sneed said Dr. Wiersbe conducted many revivals and Bible Conferences at Highland Park. Mr. Sneed said Dr. Wiersbe was one of Dr. Robersons favorites. Dr. Roberson called Dr. Wiersbe one of the best Bible teachers of all time. Dr. Roberson said his message was simple, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shall be saved. Dr. Roberson said one time, hed lost count of the number of books and commentaries written by Dr. Wiersbe. The late Mr. Sipple said everytime he traveled to the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago for meetings he would visit with Dr. Wiersbe. Mr. Sipple said Dr. Wiersbe was especially helpful when his son died. Dr. Wiersbe loved to write. His family is donating the Wiersbe Library to Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio. The late Ruth Lanham, owner of Lanhams Bible Bookshop in Chattanooga said, the Wiersbe Bible Commentary of the Old and New Testaments were among the most popular of pastors and Bible Students. Mrs. Lanham said his book sales would probably run in the millions. Mrs. Lanham said she and her husband John met Dr. Wiersbe at the Bibletown conference in Flordia. She said he was so gracious. Dr. Wiersbe pastored the Calvary Baptist Church in Covington, Kentucky during the 70s. He succeeded the late Dr. Theodore Epp as main speaker on Back to the Bible. Many of those Bible lessons are still being heard today on the program. Dr. Wiersbe is probably best known for his association with the Moody Bible Institute and pastor of the Moody Memorial Church in Chicago. His sermons are featured regularly on the Bible Broadcasting Network out of Charlotte. Dr. Weirsbe is pictured with Dr. Roberson and Dr. David Bouler, former Highland Park Baptist Pastor. (Editors Note: Dr. Wayne Shearer, 94, is a retired optometrist and retired colonel from the U.S. Air Force Reserve now living in Hixson. In his early 90s, he decided to sit down and write from memory and a few records he still possesses his recollections of going through Army Air Corps pilot training at several bases in the United States during World War II. A lifelong writer, he wanted to pen them as he remembered them happening at the time. He also recreates now-lost letters as best as he recalls writing them and references newspaper articles he collected at the time and still possesses. This is the 16th in a series of regular excerpts from his as yet unpublished book, Under This Arch.) * * * * * Setting: Preflight School in San Antonio, Texas November 11, 1943: Armistice Day, being on Thursday, eliminates my squadrons open post because today is an official holiday that will honor World War I vets by having both wings march in review. Something special happens in a cadets heart and mind as he marches on the parade ground, one of thousands meticulously lined up with his flight squadron, group and wing listening to the base military band and the shouted marching commands. We feel proud and we look proud. Hours spent drilling pays off as arms swing in unison and legs march together as one. Now, its eyes right as we pass the reviewing stand. As we near the end of the parade grounds before squadron formations are dismissed, a quick glance back behind us shows a beautiful sight of the other squadrons of several thousand more cadets turning in perfect formation and moving toward the reviewing stand. All of us are thrilled by this inspiring and impressive parade each time and especially on Armistice Day. Dad would have been proud. Ill never forget this special feeling. The formations were dismissed to go back to the barracks or the post exchange with the afternoon off. On November 1, we went into the winter uniforms and got heated up marching and standing. As usually happens, standing at attention for extra long periods on the parade ground and not flexing the knees, cadets in all flights were passing out. They were revived and marched on along when finally forward march orders were given. It took a long time for all squadrons to get lined up, but it would have been better for us in that period of time to have been at parade rest instead of attention. Those things happen every parade. Letter home: November 12, 1943 Dear Mother and Dad, You would have enjoyed seeing both cadet wings marching yesterday honoring Armistice Day. When marching with my flight and squadron as part of my now upper class wing, I feel Im part of something bigger than I am when out on that parade ground. I almost get chills and feel fortunate to be a part of the Army Air Corps in pilot training. As an upperclassman, its all the same except that a tough new course, the Morse Code, has been added. Most of us dont see any real use for it but it must be learned. Aurally, we listen with a headset for the dots and dashes. We receive it visually from a blinker light. It will be an additional challenge. Tell Norma hello. Your loving son, Wayne The San Antonio Express from San Antonio, Texas, on Sunday morning, November 14, 1943, said: U.S. EXTENDS BOUGAINVILLE BRIDGEHEAD. The American beachhead at Empress Augusta Bay on the west-central coast of Bougainville in the Northern Solomons has been extended in all directions, reported General MacArthurs headquarters Sunday. Other headline summaries from that days paper: FORTS BREAK THROUGH TO BLAST BREMEN. The U.S. 8th Army Air Force Flying Fortresses and Liberators smashed through strong enemy fighter opposition to batter the great German industrial and shipping port of Bremen Saturday in their fifth daylight raid of the month on the Reich. The giant bombers and powerful American fighter escort shot down 43 German fighters. Nine fighters and 15 heavy bombers were lost in the attack, being the biggest loss since the October 14 raid on Schweinfurt when 60 Flying Fortresses were lost. 18 ARE KILLED IN NAVY PLANE TRANSPORT CRASH. November 16, 1943: There is much news in the local newspapers, several times a week, about airplane crashes at various training bases and regular military air bases in the U.S. Most are fatalities! It has become a topic of conversation and is the probable reason our good-natured World War I pilot and our captain and squadron commander called a meeting with us in the area gym late this afternoon. When our captain arrived with his full staff, and someone yelled Attention, we knew this meeting was serious. After saying, At ease, Misters, he brought up the subject of the continuing news of air crashes. Calling on his World War I flying experiences, he told us that these are facts of military flying and that most of us will get through it all without a scratch. Further, he said do not let yourself dwell on it and develop a crash complex. We all were encouraged as we marched to each flights barracks. No sooner were we in our quarters when someones radio was blaring out the Song Spinners version of Coming in on a Wing and a Prayer. Several of us sang along with these words: Coming in on a Wing and a Prayer. Tho theres one motor gone, we can still carry on. Coming in on a wing and a prayer. What a show, what a fight That pepped us up further as one of the guys yelled out, That flying crew got back safely with the one engine out, and we laughed. Its better to be optimistic than pessimistic! November 19, 1943: After todays noon meal of fish (always on Friday), our flight was getting ready for the physical training session when one of the sergeants came into the barracks calling for Mister Shearer. I spoke up and he said, Youre needed in the orderly room at once. As I followed him out, someone said, What did you do wrong, Shearer? When I got to the orderly room and went into the captains office, I could hear my knees knocking. The captain handed me the phone saying, The Red Cross has your father on the line. Dad asked was I all right. After telling him yes, he said it was heard on the local radio station that I had been killed in an air crash in Texas. He said that the Red Cross traced it down and that it was someone with a similar name. They put the call through to my squadron, so Dad could talk to me. I could tell by his voice he was much relieved. I got joked around about it upon returning to the barracks. Everyone seemed glad that everything was all right. I told them that maybe my folks and a lot of parents had the crash complex that the captain talked to us about Tuesday, since crashes were constantly in the newspapers and on the radio. They are a good bunch of fellows to be together with and very understanding of what my folks just when through. They are that, but also extremely competitive in their desire to get ahead. Ive seen them accidentally kick someones shoes -- which should stay perfectly lined up in each of our little closets to make someone look bad. There is so much talk by our supervisors of being washed out that the competitive juices to be the best are always flowing. No one desires to get caught in the washing machine. Being in cadet training is not easy. Even so, someone is always playing a prank on another cadet. The San Antonio Evening News from San Antonio, Texas, on Monday, November 22, 1943, announced: YANK INVADERS BATTLE JAPS HAND-TO-HAND ON GILBERTS. A terse, undetailed communique issued by Adm. Chester W. Nimitzs Pacific Fleet Headquarters said American invasion forces backed by a strong fleet and covered by a canopy of planes battled today to crush two Japanese outposts in the Gilbert Islands (Tarawa) in the first phase of a mid-Pacific offensive on the flank of the trans-ocean road to Tokyo. Hand-to-hand fighting with Japanese defenders was raging on the narrow, sandy beachheads on Makin and Tarawa atolls. Other headlines from that days paper: CONGRESSMAN KILLED IN NAVY PLANE CRASH. A Navy plane circling helplessly and dropping flares over Columbia, Pa., through a heavy rain storm crashed and burned near here Sunday night carrying Rep. J. William Ditter (R-Pa.) and Lt. Com. J.J. Mansure, U.S. Navy, to their deaths. 8TH ARMY THREATENS TWO BASES IN 4-MILE ADVANCE TOWARD ROME. Letter home: November 22, 1943 Dear Mother and Dad, Hope youve gotten over the short period of trauma that your son had died in an air crash. Dad did the right thing in contacting the Red Cross. The local radio station, after somehow learning of an air crash in Texas and the death of a cadet from Georgia with a similar name, had verified who it was. I know you and Mother, especially Mother, were terribly upset. When the captain told me you were on the phone, I thought something bad had happened to Mother or Norma. Im so glad it was cleared up quickly and everyone is OK. Thursday is Thanksgiving, which Im looking forward to, but will miss being home. Even though were kept busy in training, I still get homesick. A lot of us are having trouble with the visual part of the Morse Code class. Its hard to separate the blinking lights of the dots from the dashes. We can hear the code OK but cant see the blinks. Have a good Thanksgiving and write soon! Your loving son, Wayne November 24, 1943: Weve been looking forward to the shooting range experience. Today, we spent the afternoon being instructed as to the most effective way to hold our weapon. Most of the time was used in familiarizing ourselves with the .45-caliber revolver handgun. We shot at targets for most of the afternoon. It is a heavy weapon and we decided we couldnt hit the side of a barn. The late afternoon ended with a quick orientation of the Thompson sub-machine gun (of John Dillinger fame) and the fast firing by each of us of this hand-held machine gun. We all enjoyed this change of routine and are qualified to shoot both the .45 pistol and the Thompson sub-machine gun! Tomorrow is Thanksgiving!! The San Antonio Evening News in San Antonio, Texas, on Thursday, November 25, 1943, stated: RANGOON BOMBED BY AMERICAN HEAVY BOMBERS. Waves of Army Air Force B-24 bombers successfully bomb Rangoon. Another news headline from that days paper: RUSSIANS BID FAIR TO WIPE OUT REVERSE. The Red Army has wrested the initiative from the Germans in the Zhitomir sector of the Ukraine to capture three villages and two commanding heights, front dispatches reported today. November 25, 1943 (Thanksgiving Day): Today started with a good breakfast of scrambled eggs (real eggs) and S.O.S. (chipped beef on toast with milk gravy) and all the milk you wanted to drink plus grapefruits and oranges. This is my favorite breakfast! The best was yet to come! As our flight with the rest of our squadron marched into the cadet squadron mess hall for Thanksgiving dinner, we were greeted with a large cornucopia fashioned out of cardboard materials that was full of oranges, tangerines, apples, grapes, pecans, walnuts and peanuts as was the large table it was centered on. Ive never seen such an abundance of fruit and nuts. The food line had turkey with dressing, ham, beef roast, mashed potatoes, green beans, peas, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, etc. Then another special table loaded with pecan pies, apple pies, pumpkin pies, cookies, etc. We had milk, cider, lemonade, iced tea and coffee to drink. Just as we all were getting seated and loudly talking, our captain walked into the mess hall with his lieutenants and another captain with a chaplains insignia. As quick as Attention was shouted, just as quickly the captain said, At ease. He said a few words to us regarding that our country has many things to be thankful for and for us to enjoy our meal. The chaplain briefly gave a word of thanks for this special day and for the meal. We all gorged ourselves. Ive never before seen such a variety of food. As good as it was, Mothers home cooking is the best of all and Im feeling a little lonesome for home! Letter home: November 26, 1943 Dear Mother and Dad: Today (Friday) was back to the regular routine. It was an enjoyable Thanksgiving Day yesterday. I dont believe Ive ever seen such a mixture of food and so much of it at one time. Everyone ate a lot! Mother, I missed your sweet potatoes with marshmallows and the divinity candy you make on holidays. Most of all I missed being with you, Dad and my little sister, Norma. This was the first Thanksgiving I havent been home. Yesterday, I discovered that the mess hall oranges and grapefruit were grown in Texas! This is a big beautiful state with a bit of everything. Keep writing, as I look forward to mail call every day, and give Norma a hug for me. Your loving son, Wayne The San Antonio Evening News from San Antonio, Texas, on Saturday, November 27, 1943, announced: CRUMBLING BERLIN BOMBED AGAIN. The R.A.F.s heavy armadas struck Berlin, the greatest of all German targets, a third great blow with heavy burdens of explosives and incendiaries Friday night in the campaign to rubble it out from Adolf Hitlers Reich. Air ministry announced the losses were 32 bombers from both the simultaneous Berlin and Stuttgart raids. On the same day the greatest force of Flying Fortresses and Liberators ever employed flew against Bremen and with their escorts totaled nearly 1,000 planes. They lost 10 fighter escort planes and 29 bombers but destroyed 56 German defending aircraft. Another news headline from that days paper: MARINES LOSSES AT TARAWA HEAVIEST IN HISTORY. At the highest blood cost in the history of their corps, U.S. Marines broke the back of Japanese resistence in a 60-hour battle on Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands chain. * * * * * To see the previous entry in this series, read here. https://www.chattanoogan.com/ 2019/4/22/388842/Wayne- Shearers-World-War-II-Memoir. aspx * * * * * Dr. Shearer can be contacted at docshearer@epbfi.com. Richard Tudela Aldan was named Lee Universitys 2019 Charles Paul Conn Award recipient. Dr. Paul Conn, president of Lee, recognized Mr. Aldan for this achievement in Honors Chapel last month. The Charles Paul Conn Award is given to a Lee senior who demonstrates the greatest promise of achievement in graduate or professional studies after graduating from Lee. Established in 1996, the award is named in honor of Lees 16th president. Each department may nominate one student for the award. From these nominees, a winner is selected by a faculty vote. I am honored to be this years Charles Paul Conn Award recipient, said Mr. Aldan. I would like to thank all of my professors, family, and friends for molding me these past four years. Without their consistent support and belief, I would not have been able to attain this level of success. I am excited to continue my journey in medical school, knowing that I have the confidence and support of the Lee University faculty." While at Lee, Mr. Aldan was a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society, and Lees Mens Rugby Club. He served as vice president of the Alpha Phi Delta Honor Society during his junior year and president during his senior year. Mr. Aldan also worked as an iMASS senior mentor, calculus practicum student, general chemistry intern and practicum student, organic chemistry tutor, academic success mentor, and a student worker for Dr. Lori West, professor of biology at Lee. Richard is a pleasure to have in class and as a student worker, said Dr. West. Not only is he brilliant, he is also a hard worker and continually exceeds my expectations. I am confident that he will excel in medical school and in his career as a physician. In summer 2017, Aldan participated in University of Nebraska Medical Centers undergraduate research program, where he worked with the Department of Internal Medicine. In summer 2018, Mr. Aldan returned to UNMCs undergraduate research program, this time working with the Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases. During the past year and a half, Mr. Aldan has volunteered at the Good Samaritan Clinic and the Cleveland Emergency Shelter. Mr. Aldan is the recipient of the J. Patrick Daugherty Scholarship and Lees Honors Scholarship. He also participated in the iMASS Scholarship Program. Mr. Aldan will graduate this month with a Bachelor of Science in pre-professional biochemistry. After graduation, Mr. Aldan plans to pursue his doctorate at the University of Hawaiis medical school before returning to his home island of Saipan, where he will practice medicine and conduct research. Elizabeth (Libby) Clark, a junior music education major, was named the recipient of Lee Universitys 2019-20 Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award. The Presser Foundation, established by music publisher Theodore Presser, is dedicated solely to the support of music and music education. With its Undergraduate Scholar Award, the Pennsylvania-based foundation recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding accomplishments in music performance at accredited colleges and universities across the country. It was a great pleasure to present the Presser Award to Libby Clark at our recent Masterworks concert, said Dr. William Green, dean of Lees School of Music. Libby is an exceptional student that brings together outstanding scholarly skills with extraordinary talent. She is a musician that is versatile and excels across various styles and genres. A native of Cleveland, Ms. Clark grew up singing and playing the piano. She joined band in middle school, played the French horn, and was part of her high school choir. While at Lee, Ms. Clark has been a member of Voices of Lee, Lee Opera Theater, and Choral Union. Recently, Clark won 2nd place at National Association of Teachers of Singing, a regional vocal competition. As the 2019-20 Presser Scholar, Ms. Clark will receive a cash stipend for her upcoming senior year. Presser Undergraduate Scholar Awards are distributed to a number of accredited institutions throughout America. Past recipients of Lee University include Danae Bromley (2018), Brittany Martin (2017), Kristiana McCombs (2016), Matthew Kelly (2015), Joey Archer (2014), Erica Tipton (2013), Matthew Wilkinson (2012), Lamprini Lindeman (2011), Christopher Oglesby (2010), Sabbath Ward (2009), Rachael Skidmore (2008), Michael Land (2007), and Brooke Upton (2006). For more information on Lees School of Music, call 614-8240. Lee University student, Parker Berry, presented a paper at the 49th Annual PCA-ACA National Conference. Hosted in Washington, D.C., this conference was a meeting of the Popular Culture Association and American Culture Association. Mr. Berry submitted the abstract of his paper, Nosferatu: A Symphony of Inspiration, to the conference and was invited to present on the Vampire Studies: Cinematic Vampires panel. The paper looks at how the movie Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror influenced the horror film genre, said Mr. Berry. Mr. Berry analyzed how the film gained a cult-following after it was banned in Germany in the early 1900s but a surviving copy made it to America. He calls it the first notable vampire movie and spoke of its continued influence in pop-culture with references of Nosferatu appearing in modern television. According to Berry, there is a remake of the film currently in production. Its one thing to talk to my peers at Lee about film, and a totally different thing to present my point of view and actually have strangers understand and enjoy it, said Mr. Berry. Mr. Berry graduated this month with a bachelors in digital media studies (cinema emphasis), and is moving to Atlanta to pursue a career in the film industry. I was one of the few undergrads there, said Mr. Berry. The conference was mostly people with masters and PHDs. I was flattered to be considered a scholarly person in pop culture. While at the conference, Mr. Berry had a chance to meet the conferences keynote speaker, Doug Jones. Hes the most famous actor youve never seen because he is always a character in prosthetics, said Mr. Berry. Ive admired his work since I was a kid but his recent work includes really popular films, such as Shape of Water. According to Mr. Berry, Jones is acting in the remake of Nosferatu. I got to talk to him about my paper and he gave me a hug, said Mr. Berry. It was a dream come true. For more information on the conference, visit https://pcaaca.org/. For more information on Lees digital media studies major, visit http://leeuniversity.edu/academics/arts-sciences/communication-arts/programs.aspx. Lee Universitys Dr. Alexander Steffanell, associate professor of Spanish, will release his second book, Transforming Grace, in Colombia, South America, this summer. Transforming Grace guides readers through 68 prayers, which are composed as pastoral works. Inspired by his personal walk with Christ and his teaching, Dr. Steffanell wrote the book to revive and motivate sincere biblical communication with God among faculty and students. "This book is the result of my own life as a Christian foreign language teacher," said Dr. Steffanell. "During our devotions and meetings, I share these prayers and topics with my students to help guide them on their journey to be closer to Christ." According to Dr. Steffanell, the prayers are designed to embolden churches to engage in communal liturgy. Transforming Grace" can be used by church ministers and staff to strengthen the faith of their members by using the book as a devotional text and encouraging the congregation to write their own prayers. Since the book is available in both English and Spanish, it can also be used in a foreign language and faith-integrated classroom. We give thanks to the Holy Spirit for having motivated Dr. Steffanell to put this book together, Reverend Dr. Miguel Fernandez said. We also give thanks for inspiring him to continue moving us forward as a community that writes and as a community of the Word and the Way that walks praying to God always. Transforming Grace will be launched in the Girardot Presbyterian Church in Colombia, affiliated to Presbytery of the South (Reformed Synod). Dr. Steffanell joined Lees Department of Language and Literature in 2007. He has directed several cross-cultural trips to Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Uruguay. He is also the director of the annual interdisciplinary conference on Latin American and Iberian studies. Both English and Spanish versions will be available in Colombian bookstores or by contacting Dr. Steffanell at asteffanell@leeuniversity.edu. The East Ridge Police Department will be hosting a free safety event for the community on May 18 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Camp Jordan Arena. The Department will be joined by the East Ridge Fire Department and other agencies to help reach the community and promote a safer lifestyle. All ages are welcome to attend. Some events include: The Convincer seatbelt crash simulator, DUI simulator driving course (for 18-years-old and up with a driver's license), car seat check-up event, fire safety and more. For more information, contact the East Ridge Police Department Traffic Unit. Federal agents said they confiscated $1 million cash, 14 firearms and a large assortment of vehicles from an illegal alien who ran a highly profitable framing and roofing company. Juan Antonio Perez, owner of Aztec Framing, had five different homes, including a luxurious compound at Rydal, Ga. One of his residences was in Hixson and he had a business office in Rossville. Perez was indicted by a Federal Grand Jury on Tuesday. He was charged with harboring illegal aliens and possessing firearms while being an illegal alien himself. BJay Pak, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, said at a news conference in Cartersville, Ga., on Wednesday morning that Perez used illegal aliens in his business and paid them low wages. He said he provided them no benefits and never paid any payroll taxes or Social Security. He said the way he ran the operation put Perez at a competitive advantage over legitimate business operators. U.S. Attorney Pak said, "We are going to be very aggressive to make sure that the playing field is level for everyone." Officials at the press conference were surrounded by vehicles confiscated from Perez said to be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Agents said a five-year investigation led to the arrest. The firearms included eight pistols, a rifle and five shotguns. U.S. Attorney Pak said Perez, since he is not a U.S. citizen, could not buy vehicles, guns or property in his own name, but got others to do so for him. He and his wife, Eva Torres, came to the U.S. from Mexico in 1992 and Perez started Aztec Framing in 2009, it was stated. U.S. Attorney Pak also said, Perez not only broke the law by allegedly hiring illegal aliens at below-market wages and paying no taxes, he had a large assortment of weapons including shotguns and pistols that he had acquired through various means other than buying them himself. Illegal aliens, such as Perez, are not allowed to own firearms at all. We will get to the bottom of how he acquired them." Individuals, like Mr. Perez, who flagrantly violate federal law to give themselves an unfair business advantage are cheating both law-abiding employers and employees exploited by these unfair and illegal labor practices, said Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta Nick S. Annan. This case is an illustration of serious threats to public safety on numerous levels. Homeland Security Investigations will continue to focus not only on workers who violate federal law but also their employers. Officials said Perez built his family a 7,500-square-foot house, bought other houses where he allowed some of his employees to live, and purchased more than 50 sports cars and heavily customized trucks. Yet, as of April 2019, the Georgia Department of Labor had no record of Perez reporting any income. Hutton announced the appointment of Michael Deering as chief investment officer, effective April 1. Mr. Deering joins Hutton with nearly 20 years of overall business experience, with more than 13 years of experience in commercial real estate and fund management. Before joining Hutton, Mr. Deering most recently served as senior vice president of Funds Management for Site Centers, where he oversaw the asset management, reporting, and investment management functions for a $4.0 billion portfolio of shopping centers. Prior to his time at Site Centers, Mr. Deering held numerous positions in the financial services industry. He graduated with a Bachelors in Accounting and holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Gannon University. The team and I are thrilled to have Mike join Hutton, said Karen Hutton, founder, president and CEO of Hutton. Mikes initial focus will be on the expansion of our acquisition efforts, including stabilized operating assets and redevelopment opportunities, as well as overseeing our disposition activities. His experience, leadership, and management style will enable our teams to move fast and with precision, and were confident hell continue to move us forward in the right direction by driving smart investment decisions. The Deering family recently relocated to Signal Mountain, from Cleveland, Ohio, where he was an active member of his community. While in Cleveland, Mr. Deering served as an in-classroom volunteer and on the board for Junior Achievement of Greater Cleveland and is looking forward to becoming involved in Chattanooga and serving his new community. The Hixson High School Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps accomplished a first in the units 46 year history. Headquarters Air Force JROTC announced the unit as a recipient of both the Air Force JROTC Distinguished Unit with Merit Award and the Silver Star Community Service with Excellence Award for academic year 2018-2019. On the heels of an extremely successful unit assessment in February, Air Force JROTC Unit TN-081 at Hixson High school was selected as one of 102 units to receive the 2018-2019 Air Force JROTC Distinguished Unit with Merit Award. This award recognizes Air Force JROTC units that have performed above standards, and that have distinguished themselves through outstanding service to their school, community, and while meeting the Air Force JROTC citizen development mission for America. The Silver Star Community Service with Excellence Award for the 2018-2019 school year recognizes the top 5 percent of 900 Air Force JROTC units worldwide based on community service in support of schools and their communities. This prestigious award is earned by units with the most community service hours per cadet. These events are planned and conducted by the cadets, under the supervision of their instructors. This school year, TN-081 had a total of 3,571 community service hours with each cadet averaging 40 hours of service. This award also recognizes the personal growth and accomplishments of the cadets, contributions of the instructors as mentors, and the support of the school and local community. The mission of Air Force JROTC is to Develop citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community. The objectives of the Air Force JROTC program are to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship and life skills; promote community service; instill responsibility, character, and self-discipline through character education, and to provide instruction in air and space fundamentals. Enrollment is open to high school students who are in the 9th to 12th grades. Air Force JROTC is located in almost 900 high schools across the United States and at selected schools in Europe, in the Pacific, and in Puerto Rico. Air Force JROTC enrollment includes more than 120,000 cadets who complete over 1.6 million hours of community service each year. The Hixson High School AFJROTC program is led by Major (Retired) James Carbone and Master Sergeant (Retired) Doug Burhans. Another 90 Day Fiance spinoff is coming to TLC. 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way will tell the stories of Americans whove decided to move abroad to be with the person they love. The new show premieres Monday, June 3, and if its anything like its predecessor, its going to be a big hit. Leaving America for love Like the show that inspired it, 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way involves couples separated by big distances. But unlike 90 Day Fiance, which features people moving to the U.S. from abroad for the sake of a relationship, the spinoff features Americans who are moving to a foreign country for love. The six Americans on the table-turning show will face the challenge of an international relocation, culture shock, dealing with foreign in-laws, and planning a wedding. And one of the couples will be familiar to 90 Day Fiance fans. Paul and Karine Staehle are back If you watched 90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days, youll remember Paul and Karine from Seasons 1 and 2. Paul, who is from Kentucky, met Karine, who lives in Manaus, Brazil, online. He traveled to Brazil to meet her in person, and they eventually married. On the first season of 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way, Karine is pregnant with the couples first child. But because Paul cant afford Karines visa and because his mother wont agree to be her co-sponsor he has to move to Brazil to be with her. In addition to Paul and Karine, five other couples will be on the show. Jenny and Sumit Sumit and Jenny | TLC Jenny, a 60-year-old from Palm Springs, California, is moving to India to pursue a relationship with 30-year-old Sumit. But these two had a rocky start, which could jeopardize their future. They met when Sumit catished Jenny online, though he eventually confessed his deception and she went to visit him in person, though his parents didnt accept her. Now, Jenny is leaving behind her children and grandchildren to move to India, while he has to figure out how to pull off a wedding without his disapproving family finding out. Laura and Aladin Fifty-one-year-old Florida resident Laura met Aladin, a 29-year-old personal trainer, on Facebook. After eight months of chatting online, she traveled to Qatar to meet him, and within days, they were engaged. Now, shes leaving her family and her dogs in the states to move to Qatar, where shell have to get used to a much more conservative lifestyle. Shell also have to fight to be accepted by Aladins family. Tiffany and Ronald Tiffany, who is 27, met Ronald while she was on vacation in South Africa. It was love at first sight for these two, but 29-year-old Ronald neglected to tell his new fiancee about his gambling addiction and criminal history. Now, she must decide whether she and her 8-year-old son should move to another continent to be with a man who might not have disclosed everything about his dark past. Corey and Evelin Corey, who is 31, has been dating 26-year-old Evelin for four years. Now, he wants to take the next step in their relationship, but because she doesnt want to move to the U.S., hell have to relocate to her native Ecuador. And living in a small town in this South American country will mean giving up some of the creature comforts hes always taken for granted. Deavan and Jihoon Deavan and Jihoon | TLC Salt Lake City resident Deavan met Jihoon, who lives in South Korea, on a dating app. Jihoon traveled to Utah to meet his girlfriend in person, and before long, 22-year-old Deavan discovered she was pregnant. With one child already, Deavan is now faced with moving to a foreign country and raising a child with a man shes barely spent any time with in person. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Meghan Markle gave birth to a baby boy on May 6. Prince Harry announced the exciting baby news outside Frogmore Cottage, but there is still one big question surrounding the baby. What is the babys name? Fans believe they might have found a hint into what it could be through Prince Harrys appearance. Here is everything you need to know about the latest Baby Sussex theory. It was previously believed the babys name was revealed on the royal website PICTURE: In the forecourt of Buckingham Palace this afternoon the official announcement of the arrival of the latest member of the Royal Family baby boy Sussex pic.twitter.com/164kYvqgUj Chris Ship (@chrisshipitv) May 6, 2019 The baby name has yet to be announced, but people have been keeping an eye out for clues. Many believed the potential names for the baby were already leaked by the Royal Familys website. People use the fact that there are landing pages on the website for royal family members. Fans started looking to see if any landing pages have been reserved for the new baby under different names. After testing multiple names, some came up with the theory that Arthur, Alexander, or James are being considered. Buckingham Palace claimed redirects were set up a long time ago In response to the rumored potential names, Buckingham Palace gave a statement. The statement put doubt on the landing page theory. A large number of search term redirects were set up some time ago on royal.uk. This was in order to improve user experience. For guidance you will note that other names preceded by prince or princess produce the same result, a spokesperson told Yahoo UK. The royal couple has since announced that Markle has given birth and the baby is a boy. However, the babys name is still a mystery and now there is a new theory. Some believe the horse named Sir John could be the babys name Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex | Steve Parsons WPA Pool/Getty Images Prince Harry stood outside the Windsor Castle stables where people could clearly see the names of two horses behind him. One of them has a plaque reading George outside the stable. That name could be after Kate Middleton and Prince Williams son. The other one is making royal fans suspicious. The stable on the right has the name Sir John on a plaque. Some people believe this could be a reveal of the babys name since there currently isnt a royal named John, according to Page Six. Prince Harry did talk about baby names during his appearance before the stables. Were still thinking about names. The babys a little bit overdue, so weve had a bit of time to think about it, but thats the next bit, he reportedly said. Well be seeing you guys in two days time as planned, so everyone can see the baby. Only an official announcement will prove or disprove this latest theory. It might be a little far fetched to think the baby will share the same name as the horse, but its also a common name that could be used. Fans will have to wait to find out for sure. Read more: Will Baby Sussex Have a Different Last Name Than Prince William and Kate Middletons Children? Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! For an actor whos earned $20 million for appearing in a single film, it has been odd seeing George Clooney off the screen these past several years. In fact, the only credits Clooney has logged since 2016 have been Nespresso commercials. That seems more than a bit out of place for a man whos won one Oscar for his acting (Syriana) and been nominated for several more. However, hes been as busy as ever. In 2019, hes bringing two TV projects to the screen, one being the Hulu adaptation of Joseph Hellers Catch-22. (He also co-stars.) Meanwhile, the Clooney fortune that topped $100 million earlier this decade has continued growing. As the coffee paychecks keep coming in, Clooneys biggest payday came from tequila. When he and his friends sold their small-label company, they pocketed $1 billion together. Counting Clooneys share of the deal along with his acting proceeds adds up to an eye-popping number. Heres a look at his biggest paydays and net worth in 2019. Clooneys $239 million year, making him the highest paid actor in 2018 Actor George Clooney arrives for the premiere of Michael Clayton, at the 64th Venice Film Festival. | camilla morandi/Corbis via Getty Images Even for someone as famous and bankable as George Clooney, the year in which he made $239 million will go down in the books. That was the most of any actor (by far) in 2018, according to Forbes annual check on the industrys top-paid stars. (No. 2 was The Rock at $124 million.) The funny thing is, almost all of it came from the sale of his tequila company, Casamigos. British liquor giant Diageo bought out Clooney and his two partners for $1 billion, with $700 million coming up front. Considering Clooney initially invested $600,000 of his own money in Casamigos, we imagine he will be the subject of many branding and entrepreneurial lectures in business schools. On top of the $233 million (pre-tax) he took from that deal, Clooney earned about $6 million more in endorsement money and royalties from old screen work. Clooneys net worth estimated at $500 million in 2019 George Clooney et sa fiancee Amal Alamuddin arrivent au Palazzo Vecchio le 7 septembre 2014 pour assister a la soiree de gala Celebrity Fight Night a Florence, Italie. | Guido MARZILLA/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images As of 2015, Clooneys net worth had topped $200 million, according to the best estimates available at the time. Since then, his work in Hail, Caesar! and on the production side of things kept him earning. Obviously, the Casamigos sale was the biggest boost to his fortune. By the time the deal fully vests, he may double his considerable net worth from that sale alone. Celebrity Net Worth pegged his fortune at $500 million earlier this year. That likely includes the next $100 million coming from Diageo. Now that hes got his mind off tequila, it will be interesting to see what type of work he takes up for the screen. Bringing Catch-22 to TV was definitely a gift to fans of the classic novel. Hopefully, well see more of the same in the coming years. But if he wants to stay out of Hollywood and work on humanitarian causes (or tequila) for the rest of his life, that wouldnt be a problem. Hes all set, financially. Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! According to Prince Harrys royal baby announcement, Meghan Markle (and Baby Sussex!) is scheduled to make her first appearance post-baby, tomorrow. Hours after meeting his first child, the Duke of Sussex stood outside Frogmore Cottage yesterday to address the press and provide small details about the royal babys arrival. From his time of firth 5:26 A.M. BST to his pride for his wife, the proud new father beamed as he excitedly told journalists when to expect a Sussex family debut. I think we will be seeing you guys in probably two days time as planned as a family to be able to share it with you guys and so everyone can see the baby, Prince Harry gushed to members of the media during Mondays press announcement. If his timeline is accurate, we could see Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their son (who still doesnt have a name), outside of the Windsor Estate home as early as Wednesday, May 8th. Meghan Markle | Karwai Tang/WireImage While we are excited to meet the newest member of the royal family, we cant help but wonder how Meghan Markle might present herself for her first post-baby appearance: What will she wear? Will she pay tribute to Princess Diana? Will she take note from Kate Middletons experiences and cover up her postpartum bump? We want to know everything. Kate Middletons postpartum bump Following the birth of Prince George, Kate Middleton stepped out just hours after delivery outside the Lindo Wing at St. Marys Hospital to debut her bundle of joy. She even paid tribute to her late mother-in-law by wearing a blue polka dot dress, similar (at least in print and color) to the dress she wore when Prince William was born. However, that little blue dressed caused quite a bit of unforeseen controversy. Kate Middleton | Chris Jackson/Getty Images In 2013, it seemed as though no one at least those surprised by Kate Middletons postpartum bump knew what a womans body looks like after having a baby. People were shocked to find out that, just hours after delivering a child, the bump still exists. Kate Middletons babydoll-style dress cinched at the waist, drawing attention to her postpartum bump, and causing some people to go so far as to ask questions about her body including: Why does Kate still look pregnant? Kate Middleton | Neil Mockford/GC Images Although the questions and controversy are ridiculous, they must have sparked something in the Duchess of Cambridge. Following her 2013 postpartum photocall, she made sure to find an outfit that masked the bump a little more, opting for a straight, more structured dress for both Princess Charlotte and Prince Louiss introduction. The dresses didnt completely conceal her postpartum bump, but they didnt accentuate it either. Will Meghan Markle take note and do the same? Find out what we think, below. Will Meghan Markle hide her postpartum belly? Meghan Markle | Samir Hussein/Samir Hussein/WireImage By the time we see Meghan Markle for the first time since welcoming her son into the word, the Duchess of Sussex will have had a couple of days to recover. But, despite the time, her postpartum bump will, most likely, still exist. According to Parents Magazine, postpartum bellies shrink quite a bit in the first 24 hours. However, they dont just disappear overnight. In fact, it can take at least six weeks, if not longer, for your baby belly to really shrink down. For her first official appearance post-baby, Meghan Markle might choose to conceal her postpartum belly for the sake of avoiding questions like why does Meghan Markle still look pregnant? However, we hope she shows it off. After all, womens empowerment is a large focus for the self-proclaimed feminist and what better way to lift women and mothers up than by showing off her postpartum body? Check out The Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Sand, coffee grounds and rice behave very differently than water or oil, but under certain conditions they will suddenly exhibit astonishing similarities. Scientists have found a way to better understand the behaviour of granular materials. Sand, rice and coffee are all examples of granular materials. The behaviour of granular substances plays a key role in many natural processes, such as avalanches and the motion of sand dunes, but they are also important in industry. In the manufacture of pharmaceuticals or foods, it is important to process granular materials as efficiently as possible. Despite the variety of practical applications, the physical laws that govern how granular materials behave are only partly understood. The opposite is true in the case of liquids: a number of well-established physical laws and mathematical instruments are used to describe their behaviour. This is particularly true for unstable, complex mixtures, such as emulsions, which have structures that quickly rearrange themselves. A new order Researchers from the group led by Christoph Muller, Professor of Energy Science and Engineering at ETH Zurich, in collaboration with scientists at Columbia University in New York, have discovered that under certain circumstances, mixtures made of granular materials exhibit striking similarities to mixtures of immiscible liquids and can even be described by similar physical laws. To carry out their experiments, the researchers placed heavy and light grains in different configurations in a narrow container, which they vibrated while simultaneously passing air through it from below. These two processes fluidised the grains, so that they began to behave similarly to liquids. From the outside, the researchers then observed how the materials in the container rearranged over time. Contrasting structures If, for example, a layer of heavy sand is placed on top of lighter sand, fluidisation will cause the lighter grains to migrate upwards due to their lower density and form globule-like structures much like viscous liquids. The grains actually behave similar as oil in water would, explains Christopher McLaren, a doctoral student in Mullers group. A complex interaction occurs between the two materials. If a small quantity of light sand is embedded in heavy sand, the light sand will more or less move upwards in compact globules. However, in heavy sand, a more complex pattern emerges: a ball of heavy grains, surrounded by light grains, will not simply sink to the bottom intact. Rather, it will gradually disintegrate into several smaller globules, and the material will continue to branch out as time passes. Diverse applications Our findings are significant for several applications, says Alexander Penn, a postdoc involved in the experiments. If, for example, a pharmaceuticals manufacturer wants to produce a very homogeneous powder mixture, it has to understand the physics of these materials in detail, so that it can control the process. The findings are also likely to be of interest to geologists, helping them to better understand the processes involved in landslides or how sandy soils behave during earthquakes. Moreover, the work will also be relevant to the current energy debate. If you analyse industrial processes, you can see that a significant share of the needed energy is used to process granular materials, explains Penn. If we know how to better control granular materials, we can develop more energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Evonik made a solid start to the new year. Sales in the first quarter rose 1 percent to 3.29 billion compared to the prior-year quarter. Adjusted EBITDA declined 3 percent to 539 million. In a weakening global economy we were able to hold our ground in terms of sales and earnings, said Christian Kullmann, chairman of the executive board. With free cash flow, we were even able to post a significant gain. Our portfolio is now more robust in the face of macroeconomic trends than it was in the past. The divestment of our methacrylates business has contributed to that. One-time start-up costs for new production facilities and a temporary bottleneck in the supply of raw materials in the Performance Materials segment contributed to the drop in adjusted EBITDA. Correspondingly, the adjusted EBITDA margin slipped from 17.1 percent to 16.4 percent. Adjusted net income fell 5 percent to 249 million with adjusted earnings per share at 0.53. Free cash flow improved significantly year-on-year, increasing by 109 million to 159 million. This was mostly due to less build up of net working capital and lower pension payments. Outlook raised As a result of the agreed sale of the methacrylates business, the outlook for continuing operations has been revised upwards. Evonik now expects adjusted EBITDA and sales to be at least on the same level as last year. Earnings from the planned acquisition of the US company PeroxyChem are not included in the revised guidance. In the year 2018, the continued operations posted an adjusted EBITDA of 2.15 billion and sales of 13.3 billion. Significant progress with the company-wide cost-saving program also made a contribution to earnings. More than half of the 1,000 job cuts will have been achieved by the end of the year. Segment performance Resource Efficiency: The successful business development in this segment continued in the first quarter of 2019. Sales rose 3 percent to 1,399 million. This was principally due to higher selling prices, whereas volumes were slightly lower than in the prior-year period. Demand for high-performance polymers (polyamide 12) and membranes remained high, so higher prices had a positive impact, resulting in a correspondingly strong rise in sales. Higher sales were also reported by crosslinkers as a result of high demand, especially for composite applications for the wind energy market, and by silica, which benefited from a pleasing trend in rubber and tire applications. Despite start-up costs for the new silica plant in the USA, adjusted EBITDA improved 2 percent to 324 million. Nutrition & Care: Sales increased 3 percent to 1,149 million in the first quarter of 2019. This was mainly due to an increase in sales volumes, while selling prices declined. Sales of essential amino acids for animal nutrition dropped slightly, caused by lower selling prices. By contrast, volumes sold increased significantly. The care solutions business showed a pleasing development, benefiting from higher demand for specialty applications, for example, from the cosmetics industry. Adjusted EBITDA was 180 million, 14 percent lower than in the prior-year period, partly due to expenses in connection with the planned start-up of the new methionine facility in Singapore in mid-2019. As of 1st April 2019 Florian Kruckl will join the CASE business unit of Bodo Moller Chemie GmbH. In his position as Vice President Global Business Management CASE, Mr. Kruckl will be responsible for further business development in the global market for Bodo Moller Chemie, one of the leading distributor for special chemicals. The Bodo Moller Chemie group will henceforth focus on strategical partnerships with leading manufacturers to increase growth. The accompanying expansion of the product portfolio and the intensification of customer-oriented relationships should further strengthen the position of the full-range supplier in global competition. In this context, intensive analyses of strategic investments in the CASE division will also be carried out in the future. The targeted expansion of the CASE Global division and its realignment should consciously strengthen and further force the corporate success of the business unit., says Frank Haug, CEO of the Bodo Moller Chemie Group. Create added value With more than 20 years with BASF SE, Mr. Kruckl was able to generate wide (industry) expertise and a comprehensive entrepreneurial understanding. His focus for sales and marketing as well as his continuous motivation set the course for his position as Managing Director of BASF Middle East based in Dubai, UAE. Due to his experience, Mr. Florian Kruckl is the perfect candidate for this position. In our opinion this cooperation is an important strategical step on the way to market leadership., says Frank Haug, CEO of the Bodo Moller Chemie Group. The strategical and analytical way of thinking as well as Kruckls global network will be a huge support to optimize the portfolio of the Bodo Moller Chemie Group. With the planned expansions, our CASE range will create increased added value for our customers as well as our partners., adds Jurgen Rietschle, Managing Director of the Bodo Moller Chemie Group. 80 percent of persecuted religious believers are Christians: British gov't interim report 08 May, 2019 by Michael Gryboski , | Approximately four of five people persecuted for their religious beliefs are Christians, according to an interim report prepared for the British government. The Rt. Rev. Philip Mounstephen, Anglican bishop of Truro, which is located in the United Kingdom, prepared an interim report focused on persecuted Christians, delivering it to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office last Friday. According to the lengthy interim report, 80 percent of persecuted believers around the world are Christians, with Bishop Mounstephen labeling it "an inconvenient truth." In footnote number 344, Mounstephen explained that while the statistic derives from 10-year-old research by the International Society for Human Rights, it remains accurate. "Although this figure no longer appears on the ISHR website this is simply because it is now ten years old," wrote Mounstephen in the note. "However in private conversation with leading figures in ISHR they stand by the figure and suggest that it is now a conservative estimate." The interim report cited other research, including a Pew Research Center study from 2017 which found that Christians were targeted for their beliefs in 144 countries. "Christians have been harassed in more countries than any other religious group and have suffered harassment in many of the heavily Muslim countries of the Middle East and North Africa," stated Pew, as quoted in the interim report. The report went as far as to say that Christian persecution worldwide was not only increasing, but "arguably coming close to meeting the international definition of genocide." "The eradication of Christians and other minorities on pain of 'the sword' or other violent means was revealed to be the specific and stated objective of extremist groups in Syria, Iraq, Egypt, north-east Nigeria and the Philippines," states the interim report. "An intent to erase all evidence of the Christian presence was made plain by the removal of crosses, the destruction of Church buildings and other Church symbols." Mounstephen explained that a final report is expected to be completed sometime in the summer, including detailed information on "focus countries" where Christians face especially harsh treatment. Read more from "80 percent of persecuted religious believers are Christians: British gov't interim report" on The Christian Post. After 40 years, 'megachurch' pastor slams Christianity and quits, deacon claims he had affair 08 May, 2019 by Leonardo Blair , | Dave Gass, a former megachurch pastor who most recently led Grace Family Fellowship in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, has renounced his Christian faith as a system rife with abuse that caused him "mental and emotional breaks." A representative from his former church, however, has accused him of being an unrepentant adulterer. Gass reportedly first made his announcement in a series of now protected tweets but not before they were copied and shared across multiple social media platforms. "After 40 years of being a devout follower, 20 of those being an evangelical pastor, I am walking away from faith. Even though this has been a massive bomb drop in my life, it has been decades in the making," he began in the thread before moving on to compare Scripture to Greek mythology. "When I was in 8th grade and I was reading Greek mythology, it dawned on me how much of the supernatural interactions between the deity of the bible and mankind sounded like ancient mythology. That seed of doubt never went away," he said. He explained how he was raised in a "hyper-fundamentalist" Christian home where Christianity "didn't work. The promises were empty. The answers were lies." Even so, he grew up to be a devout Christian who rarely missed church or failed to study Scripture. "I was fully devoted to studying the scriptures. I think I missed maybe 12 Sundays in 40 years. I had completely memorized 18 books of the bible and was reading through the bible for the 24th time when I walked away," he wrote. None of it, however, helped his marriage. "As an adult my marriage was a sham and a constant source of pain for me. I did everything I was supposed to - marriage workshops, counseling, bible reading together, date nights every week, marriage books - but my marriage never became what I was promised it would be," he said. He went on to discuss how miserable his life eventually became as his expectations, including experiencing the supernatural failed to match up with the reality he was experiencing. "An inescapable reality that I came to was that the people who benefited the most from organized religion were the fringe attenders who didn't take it too seriously. The people who were devout were the most miserable, but just kept trying harder," he said. "... The entire system is rife with abuse. And not just from the top down, sure there are abusive church leaders, but church leaders are abused by their congregants as well. Church people are just sh*tty to each other," he continued. "I spent my entire life serving, loving, and trying to help people in my congregations. And the lies, betrayal, and slander I have received at the hands of church people left wounds that may never heal." He said he struggled so much with his church experience it began to affect his mental and ultimately physical health. "This massive cognitive dissonance - my beliefs not matching with reality - created a separation between my head and my heart. I was gas lighting myself to stay in the faith. Eventually I could not maintain the facade anymore, I started to have mental and emotional breaks. My internal stress started to show in physical symptoms. Being a pastor - a professional Christian - was killing me," Gass revealed. To save himself, he said, he chose to walk away from the church. "Eventually I pulled the lever and dropped the bomb. Career, marriage, family, social standing, network, reputation, all gone in an instant. And honestly I didn't intend to fully walk away, but the way the church turned on me forced me to leave permanently," he said. He apologized to his former followers and said he still loves those who choose to dismiss him as an "apostate." "For those of you who want to yell at me, that's fine. I know that many will call me an apostate, say I was never really saved, that I was a wolf in sheep's clothing, and that a hotter hell awaits me. And to you I say I love you. My heart is tender toward you," he said. "To those who have been in my congregations or under my teaching/preaching I sincerely apologize. I thought I was right. I thought I was doing the right thing. I thought I could fake it until I made it. I was wrong. I'm sorry. I love you," he added. Justin Thuttle, a deacon at Grace Family Fellowship Church, claimed on Twitter that Gass was not entirely forthcoming about his faith journey and branded him an unrepentant sinner. "Yes, he was my pastor when he 'walked away'. He actually just slept with a married women (sic) in the church and got caught. He never repented and they still live together," he wrote in a tweet last Thursday. Read more from, "After 40 years, 'megachurch' pastor slams Christianity and quits, deacon claims he had affair" on The Christian Post. Asia Bibi leaves Pakistan to be reunited with daughters in Canada: reports 08 May, 2019 by Samuel Smith/CP , | Reports have indicated that Pakistani Christian mother Asia Bibi (Aasiya Noreen), who spent years on death row, left Pakistan and arrived in Canada. A British diplomat told the London-based British Pakistani Christian Association on Wednesday morning that Bibi safely left Pakistan after months of delay following the acquittal of her blasphemy charge by Pakistan's Supreme Court last year. Her lawyer, Saif ul Malook, told the BBC that she already arrived in Canada. She and her husband, Ashiq Masih, have been living the last few months in protective custody and under fear of death threats from Islamic extremists who have also called for the deaths of the justices that issued her acquittal. Bibi and her husband have been waiting to leave for Canada, where her daughters have relocated. "Asia Bibi on her way to Canada to be reunited with her daughters! Such great news!" Nadine Maenza, a commissioner on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, tweeted, citing The Daily Mail report. "Praying for her health and reunion with her family." BPCA Chairman Wilson Chowdhry, whose organization provides humanitarian assistance to persecuted Christians in Pakistan, explained that he had been in communication with Ashiq Masih daily up until Monday. "Ashiq has always remained hopeful of an imminent release from Pakistan and we have both been shocked at how long it has taken," Chowdhry said in a statement. "Asia Bibi and Ashiq have remained resolute in their faith and have prayed daily for their release and today God has answered their prayers. BPCA [is] grateful that we have been able to be a part of this family's journey to freedom and will continue to pray for them and assist them where we can." Chowdhry told The Christian Post in a text message that American diplomats have been "behind the scenes from the outset." An unnamed source told The Daily Mail that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was "incredibly helpful" in securing Bibi's release from Pakistan. "The Pakistan army's objection was that if they let her go, and she went public rubbishing Pakistan, it would be bad for all of them," the source told The Daily Mail. Bibi, a farm laborer in the Punjab province, was sentenced to death in 2010 after she was accused by Muslim women of insulting Islam's prophet Muhammad. Insulting Islam's holy prophet is a crime punishable by death under Pakistan's penal code section 295-C. After years of delay, Bibi's appeal was finally heard by the Pakistan Supreme Court, which acquitted Bibi of the charge last October. Continue reading about Asia Bibi on The Christian Post. Iranian intelligence minister concerned with growth of Christianity; converts summoned Christian Post Contributor | 08 May, 2019 by Samuel Smith Iran's intelligence minister, Mahmoud Mahmoud Alavi, openly expressed concern last weekend about the spread of Christianity in the Islamic republic and said that some converts to Christianity were "summoned" to explain why they have converted. The 65-year-old Alavi gave a speech before Shia clerics on Saturday, the day before the beginning of Ramadan. According to the International Shia News Association, Alavi blamed "evangelical propaganda" as being complicit to the increase in Iranian Muslims converting to Christianity in certain areas of the country. Despite Christianity being criminalized in a country where the government is entangled with hardline Islam, the nation is experiencing one of the fastestevolving underground church movements in the world. According to Radio Farda, Alavi told the clerics that the Intelligence Ministry and Qom Seminary, the country's largest Islamic seminary, have dispatched individuals and institutions that are active in "countering the advocates of Christianity" to areas where Muslims are being converted. "People tend to become Christians who are ordinary people of the community, for example, their sandwich shops and the like, and they became a Christian family," he was quoted as saying. Alavi also said that in a city like Hamadan province in northwestern Iran, the government was given no choice but to summon Muslim converts to Christianity to ask why they have embraced the religion over Islam. "Some of them said that 'we were seeking a religion that would calm us and establish ourselves with us and brotherhood,'" Alavi was quoted as saying. "We told them that 'Islam is a religion of brotherhood.' They said that 'we see that the scholars of Islam and those who talk behind the podium talk continuously against each other, if Islam is a religion of [peace], then first of all, one must create [peace] between his scholars.'" The intelligence minister reportedly said that although the agency is not responsible for finding the root cause of the mass religious conversion to Christianity in Iran, it is "happening right before our eyes." Read more from "Iranian intelligence minister concerned with growth of Christianity; converts summoned" on The Christian Post. North Korean defector details decade of abuse, forced labor at orphanage Christian Post Contributor | 08 May, 2019 by Samuel Smith A North Korean defector recounted Thursday the "hell" she experienced during a decade full of abuse, starvation and enslavement as an orphan in the rogue nation, a fate that too many children are still experiencing today under the Kim regime. As part of a weeklong advocacy effort in support of human rights reform in North Korea, Park Ji-Hye told attendees at an event held at the Family Research Council headquarters that she spent time in two different orphanages after her father died of starvation during a famine in the 1990s. With her mom having been trafficked to China, Park said she knows too well the desperate situation facing North Korean orphans today, as they have no social protections guaranteed by the government and are treated as property in the country that has been ruled by the repressive Kim dynasty over the past 70 years. "It was just like going through hell for me to live in an orphanage, then running around by myself and being trafficked to China," Park said through a translator during a 45-minute recounting of her life. "It was a long journey of suffering. I know for sure even now there are people going through the same thing, whether it's in an orphanage or in China." While much attention has been paid in the last several years to the fact that thousands of Koreans are worked to death in labor camps, not as much focus has been paid to the human rights abuses being committed in North Korean orphanages, said Suzanne Schulte, head of the North Korea Freedom Coalition and a key organizer behind North Korea Freedom Week. "I can tell you when we brought the first survivors of the political prison camp to testify [before Congress] in the late 1990s, people did not believe the stories because there were only a few witnesses," Schulte said. "Now, there have been hundreds of folks that have been able to escape and testify about the horrible political prison camps that are really death camps for innocent men, women and children. Today, we're facing that same issue except now it is the orphans." Schulte, who has been involved in North Korea human rights advocacy for over 20 years, said that many people don't know what is happening to orphans in North Korea because "there are very few survivors." Thursday's North Korea Freedom Week event at FRC was the first time Park has shared her story on the international stage, according to an event organizer. Life in two orphanages Park was born into a family of four children. She has a younger sister, an older sister, and a younger brother and her mother left home on a quest to run a business in hopes of supporting her family. However, Park's mom ended up being trafficked into neighboring China. In the 1990s famine spread throughout North Korea. It's been estimated that between 330,000 up to 3 million people died as a result of starvation. One of those people was Park's father, who worked as a miner. While her younger sister was adopted and her older sister was allowed to live at her grandmother's house (before defecting at the age of 13), Park and her younger brother were not as fortunate. The first orphanage they went to, she said, was a state-run orphanage where countless children were being housed in a three-story building. "The facility was awful and they didn't provide any food to children," she explained. "So many children tried to escape and jumped out of the building." Park and her younger brother eventually escaped and fled to their grandmother's house. During that time, her brother became ill and they both stayed at their grandmother's house until he recovered before being sent to a second orphanage where they were held for about 10 years. She said it was a private orphanage run by a married couple. The couple themselves were honored as "heroes" by the Kim regime, she recalled. According to Park, there were 170 children at the orphanage. Each bedroom housed as many as 30 children, she added. The family that ran the orphanage also ran a farm at the same time. Park said that a typical day for the orphans started at 4 a.m. as they were forced to work for two hours on the farm. At 6 a.m., she added, the children would then be forced to march in the streets to wake people up. Following that, they would head back to the orphanage for breakfast. After breakfast, the school-aged children would go to school while the rest of the children would go back to work in the field. At school, Park said, the facilities were awful and only one textbook was provided for the whole class. Also, the students were not provided with lunch at the school. After school, the orphans returned and were forced to go into the mountain to fetch firewood. According to Park, each orphan had a quota to meet. If the orphan didn't meet his or her quota, they would not be given dinner. This meant that Park, whose younger brother was only 6 at the time and too weak to carry his weight, had to work doubly hard to ensure that both she and her brother would eat each day. At night, the children would be called into "self-criticism sessions," park added. "Not only did we have to confess what we did wrong that day, we also had to criticize others for what they did wrong," she remembers. "Since we lived together, we basically took a turn to say, 'I would criticize you today and you can criticize me tomorrow.'" "Those who made mistakes, they were scolded and punished," she continued. Following the self-criticism session came the "recreation session," when the children were made to sing and dance. "But even if the children cried, they had to smile and pretend they were having a good time during singing and dancing," she said. It wouldn't be until about 10 p.m. that children would be allowed to go to bed on most nights, Park explained. "That is how I lived for about 10 years of my life," she contended. The three sons Park said that manual labor was only part of the problem with the orphanage. The worst part of the orphanage, she recalled, was the three sons of the couple that owned the orphanage. Although the sons were all married, "they considered the girls in the orphanage as their possession or slave they could use." "Whenever they liked, they designated one person. There was no choice for the girls that were designated and anyone who did not fulfill their needs or request, then all the children were summoned. In the morning, we found out the first thing, they would share who was called and who got pregnant by the three sons." Read more from "North Korean defector details decade of abuse, forced labor at orphanage" on The Christian Post. 'Pastors' in Pakistan helping Chinese men target poor girls for marriage Christian Post Contributor | 08 May, 2019 by Leah MarieAnn Klett Hundreds of Christian girls in Pakistan have been trafficked to China as part of a massive operation in which pastors are paid to target impoverished communities to find brides for Chinese men. A disturbing new report from the Associated Press found that in Pakistan, where Christians make up just 2.6 percent of the population, sex traffickers offer desperately poor parents thousands of dollars to give girls in marriage to Chinese men. The brokers are assisted by Christian pastors paid to preach to their congregations with promises of wealth in exchange for their daughters, notes the report. After surrendering their daughters, parents receive $3,500 to $5,000 dollars and are told that their new sons-in-law are wealthy Christian converts. Pastor Munch Morris, who leads an evangelical church in Gujranwala, a city north of Lahore, told the AP that he knows a group of local pastors who work with a private Chinese marriage broker. Among them, he said, is a fellow pastor at his church who tells his flock, "God is happy because these Chinese boys convert to Christianity. They are helping the poor Christian girls." Rizwan Rashid, a parishioner at the city's Roman Catholic St. John's Church, said that two weeks earlier, a car pulled up to him outside the church gates. Two Pakistani men and a Chinese woman inside asked him if he knew of any girls who want to marry a Chinese man. "They told me her life would be great," he said. They were willing to pay him to help, but he said he refused because the church's priest often warns his congregation against such marriages. The Associated Press interviewed more than a dozen Christian Pakistani women who either fled before exchanging vows with their would-be Chinese husbands or returned to Pakistan shortly after marrying. All had similar accounts of a process involving traffickers and various clergy members. Once the brides arrive in China, they are vulnerable to abuse, many of them forced to live in rural, isolated towns. With no way to communicate, they are reliant on a translation app even for a glass of water. Since October, an estimated 750 to 1,000 girls have been married off, some as young as 13 years old. Muqadas Ashraf, who was 16 when her parents married her off to a Chinese man last year, returned to Pakistan less than five months later, pregnant and seeking a divorce. "It is all fraud and cheating. All the promises they make are fake," she said. In April, Human Rights Watch called on China and Pakistan to take action to end bride trafficking, pointing to "increasing evidence that Pakistani women and girls are at risk of sexual slavery in China." The cases in Pakistan highlight what the organization called a "disturbingly similar pattern" of underprivileged women being trafficked to China for marriages from at least five other Asian countries, including Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, North Korea, and Vietnam. Responding to the report, the Chinese embassy in Pakistan issued a statement acknowledging "some unlawful matchmaking centers made illegal profits from brokering cross-national marriages" and claimed China is "cooperating with Pakistani law enforcement agencies to crack down on illegal matchmaking centers." Read more from, "'Pastors' in Pakistan helping Chinese men target poor girls for marriage" on The Christian Post. Texas pastor on how churches can do better when reaching out to homosexuals Christian Post Contributor | 08 May, 2019 by Sheryl Lynn For many Christians, the Bible is clear on homosexuality: it's a sin. But there's a real struggle among believers on how their convictions should play out when engaging with homosexual persons. How welcoming should churches be without compromising their beliefs? Should church membership be open to homosexual persons? How should parents respond to their child coming out as gay? How do you know when to apply grace and when to apply truth? As a pastor, Bruce Miller empathizes with those struggles. He recalled in a webcast this week that he became friends with a lesbian who decided to attend his church, Christ Fellowship Church in McKinney, Texas. He welcomed her to Thanksgiving meals at his house, where she felt loved and said that she never experienced a "healthy family" before. After joining a small group, she revealed her personal story and the group just loved her, Miller said. They also laid hands on her and prayed with her. It was a powerful expression of love and she was moved by it. All the while, she was having tough conversations with Miller. She would ask him if he would really welcome her to his church if she were to meet another woman, considering he would not officiate her same-sex wedding. While Miller affirmed that he would not officiate, he still welcomed her to church and said "we can sing praises to Jesus together." The woman has since moved to another state. "It's been a struggle," Miller admitted. "It was difficult." But to him, it was all about caring for the individual person and loving that person. The Texas pastor is still trying to think through the polarizing issue but he feels churches need to start owning up to all the ways they have failed homosexual persons. The common public narrative is that "Christians hate gay people" or that they condemn homosexuality as the "worst sin," he lamented. "You want to show the love of Christ to people and yet our history, if we're honest, hasn't been so good. Churches in America, generally speaking, ... failed in the AIDS crisis. ... The church really wasn't there to go care for people. Many churches have not been welcoming, far from affirming. Gay people have come to churches and not been treated so well. We've got to own that. "In some ways, gay people themselves are like a lost people group in the way that the church has treated them." When he invites gay people to church and tells them they're welcome to come, the common reaction is: Are you for real? So Miller, who believes marriage is between a man and a woman, encourages churches to "go overboard" in communicating their welcome to homosexual persons, considering the history. "What's really hard to convince someone of is that we really love you, that we really want you to come and hear about the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ," he said. Read more from "Texas pastor on how churches can do better when reaching out to homosexuals" on The Christian Post. After being on death row for eight years and protective custody for another, Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi has made it out of Pakistan. According to Fox News, Bibi flew out of Pakistan under a veil of secrecy on Tuesday and made her way to Canada where she later reunited with her family. As Christian Headlines previously reported, Bibi was arrested in 2009 and was put on death row after being accused of blaspheming the Islamic prophet Muhammed in an argument with several Muslim women. Bibi denied the claims, but was sentenced to hanging, nonetheless. According to The Christian Post, insulting Islam or the prophet Muhammad in Pakistan is considered blasphemy and is a crime punishable by life in prison or death. The Christian Post notes that the law is frequently abused to target religious minorities. After Bibi was acquitted in October 2018, she was released from imprisonment, but kept under protective custody since she was denied the ability to leave Pakistan and numerous threats were made on her life. Angry that she had been acquitted, Pakistani Muslim radicals blocked off streets in Pakistan and called for Bibis execution as well as for the murder of the Supreme Court justices who approved her release. Despite this, the 54-year-old mother of five held on to hope and now, she has finally been reunited with her family. Bibis lawyer Saif-ul Malook told Fox News that she is safely in Canada and doing well. He said, She is free now. The case is over and she can move on safely with her life in Canada." Chairman of the British Pakistani Christian Association Wilson Chowdhry, who worked as a liaison between diplomats and Bibi's husband, also rejoiced over Bibis release. Chowdhry highlighted Bibis bravery and strength noting that she "bravely held onto her faith. He said, "She was offered freedom on several occasions by officials and prison workers pressuring her to convert to Islam and if she did, she would immediately be released. He proclaimed, She deserves a Nobel Peace Prize. She refused to capitulate, she is a testimony to us all. Related: Senator Rand Paul Urges President Trump to Grant Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi Asylum Asia Bibi Is Officially Free: Pakistani Court Upholds Acquittal Muslim Radicals Block Roads in Pakistan, Call for Death of Justices Who Set Asia Bibi Free Photo courtesy: Pixabay Two students walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado on Tuesday and opened fire killing one and injuring eight others. According to the Associated Press, an 18-year-old and a juvenile both students at the STEM School walked into the kindergarten through 12thgrade science, technology, engineering and math charter school and engaged students in two separate classrooms. According to CBN News, at first, seventh-grader Sophia Marks was not sure what was going on. She said, At the moment no one really knew what was going on, so I didn't know they were bullets. She continued, "I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs." Reportedly, authorities were immediately notified of the shooting and nearby deputies were able to respond quickly. After a struggle with the suspects, authorities were able to apprehend the two shooters. In a news conference on Tuesday, Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth noted that officers could still hear gunfire as they were arriving on the scene. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock added, I have to believe that the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives. Authorities have released the name of the 18-year-old suspect and have confirmed that neither of the two shooters were previously known to them. This comes following the 20thanniversary of the Columbine school massacre that left 13 people dead. Columbine and the STEM School are within 7 miles of each other just south of Denver. Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence, White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. According to the AP, President Trump was briefed on the situation and was in touch with state and local officials on Tuesday. Authorities have not released information about how the suspects will be charged, but they believe that the two students who were apprehended are the only two people involved. Photo courtesy: Getty Images/Tom Copper/String Imagine if tomorrow, a judge in the most liberal state in the country announced children no longer belong to their parents, theyre no longer under their parents authority. From henceforth, says the decree, kids belong to the state. Outraged parents would take to the streets! Angry and refusing to capitulate. Well, thats not how it goes. Instead, parental rights are taken a little at a time. The outrage is avoided, and the state usurpation of parents is largely non-controversial. The same desired results using this strategy are not only possible, but inevitable. Allow me to illustrate. A few days ago, a judge in British Columbia issued a gag order against the father of a 14-year-old girl who identifies as a boy. Why a gag order? Because he referred to his daughter by her actual gender in public interviews. British Columbia Supreme Court Justice Marzari also found the girls father guilty of family violence for going to the press after courts ordered that his daughter be allowed to start injections of male hormones. In fact, the judge even forbade the father from referring to his daughter as a girl, from trying to persuade her to abandon her so-called treatment, and even from using her real name! The name he gave her. In other words, this judge has effectively forbidden this dad from even acknowledging that he has a daughter. Legislatures elsewhere in Canada are laying similar groundwork to make this kind of government takeover of parenting permanent. Back in 2017, with barely a whisper of protest, Ontario passed the Youth and Families Act, which adds a childs sexual orientation and gender identity to the list of things judges can consider when determining whether parents are abusive. In other words, as written, this law would allow any judge in the province to do exactly what Justice Marzari did to that father of the 14-year-old girl. And thats not just my opinion. When asked if this law would allow the government to separate children from parents who dont approve of their gender identity, the Ontario Minister of Children and Youth Services said, I would consider that a form of abuse, when a child identifies one way and a caregiver is saying no Now, his office has since then changed its tune. A spokeswoman told BuzzFeed News that the law does not give the government power to seize children from families based on a parent that disagrees with a childs gender identification. Their commentary on the statute may have changed, but the language of the statute hasnt. So the precedent is set. Well, thats Canada, you say. Thats not going to happen here. Are you sure about that? Last year an Ohio judge awarded custody of a transgender teen to her grandparents rather than her parents, because mom and dad didnt support her transition. But an even greater threat to parental rights in this country will probably come from legislatures. Sexual orientation and gender identity, or SOGI laws have already been enacted in twenty states, making these protected categories like race or religion. It sets the precedent for treating disagreement with gender ideology as a crime. Eventually, that could be the case even if the person you are disagreeing with is your child. Several states already have the legal mechanism in place to emancipate children from parents who dont support their gender identification. Bit by bit, parental rights are chipped away in the name of sexual ideologies, especially gender identity. And bit by bit, mom and dad are treated as mere trustees of the state, subject to revocation without notice. Ideas matter. They can change how we collectively understand family, and parents, and even who kids belong to. I wish I had better news, but laws and rulings like these are the endgame for parental rights. Pay close attention and take responsibility for your own state, your own county, your own city, and especially for your own kids. The transition to a society in which children are wards of the state is well underway. Like surgical gender transitions, once complete, the damage could be irreversible. Download an audio mp3 file here. BreakPoint is a Christian worldview ministry that seeks to build and resource a movement of Christians committed to living and defending Christian worldview in all areas of life. Begun by Chuck Colson in 1991 as a daily radio broadcast, BreakPoint provides a Christian perspective on todays news and trends via radio, interactive media, and print. Today BreakPoint commentaries, co-hosted by Eric Metaxas and John Stonestreet, air daily on more than 1,200 outlets with an estimated weekly listening audience of eight million people. Feel free to contact us at BreakPoint.org where you can read and search answers to common questions. John Stonestreet, the host of The Point, a daily national radio program, provides thought-provoking commentaries on current events and life issues from a biblical worldview. John holds degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (IL) and Bryan College (TN), and is the co-author of Making Sense of Your World: A Biblical Worldview. Publication date: May 8, 2019 Photo courtesy: Pixabay A pastor, Christian relief worker and members of Living Faith Church have been kidnapped by alleged members of Boko Haram two weeks ago in Borno State. Abraham Amuta, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, and Pastor Oyeleke of Living Faith Church were among the people kidnapped. The group was traveling from Maiduguri to Chibok to give supplies to displaced people in the region when they were attacked. Rabiu Aminu, the Borno State Coordinator for NYSC, explained to the Christian Post that all corps members must receive approval from their employer and a zone inspector before traveling. Amuta, however, did not. Amutas housemate, Success Ezeanya, told Punch, [Abraham] is a very strong guy; the guy has guts. The police are working to find the group. We visited the Church, and the Commissioner of Police called us on Friday over the incident and assured us of their total support to address the situation, Aminu stated. The church told Ezeanya that Boko Haram has demanded a ransom of about $55,000. According to Christian Post, its unclear how many church members were kidnapped. The Punch reports three other members. Located north east of Nigeria, Borno State is the original home of Boko Haram. The terrorist group began in its capital in 2002. In 2014, Boko Haram militants kidnapped over 250 teenage girls from a boarding school in Borno, as well. The group has recently increased its attacks in Chad with at least 12 deadly attacks in the last year that killed over 70 people. According to Open Doors USA, Nigeria is the 12th-ranked country in the world for Christian persecution. Many Christians are treated as second-class citizens and often lose their property, if not their lives. In 2014, Boko Haram attacked a Christian farming village in Borno State, ultimately killing 106 people. Photo courtesy: Getty Images/Chris Hondros/Staff Yes, its beginning to look a lot like Christmaswhich, for many of us, feels like a rush into chaos. Celebrating Advent during this season slows us down and helps our hearts and minds be reoriented around the coming of Christ.Yes, its beginning to look a lot like Christmaswhich, for many of us, feels like a rush into chaos. Celebrating Advent during this season slows us down and helps our hearts and minds be reoriented around the coming of Christ. Asia Bibi has finally escaped the country where her life was at risk for nearly a decade. The Pakistani Christian will join her family in Canada, according to reports from media and her lawyer. In Pakistans most-watched persecution case, Bibi spent more than eight years in prison on blasphemy charges and faced the death penalty. After she was exonerated last year, she could not live freely in her home country since she was at risk of attacks by rogue clerics calling for vigilante justice; more than 50 people charged with blasphemy have been murdered there. Bibi, now in her 50s, is a mother of five, and two of her daughters had already moved to Canada for asylum. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said he wishes Bibi all the best after being safely reunited with her family, CNN reported. Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), which has advocated for Bibi, stated that while they celebrate for her and her family, they acknowledge the ongoing threats. Today is ... 1 Conservative Anglican group may boycott global bishops conference over gay marriage Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A major conservative group of Anglican bishops and leaders may boycott an upcoming global bishops conference over the presence of bishops whose regional territories support gay unions. The Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON) released a statement on Monday regarding the Lambeth Conference, a major Anglican Communion gathering held almost every 10 years in Canterbury, United Kingdom. In a communique from the GAFCON Primates Council sent from Sydney, Australia, the conservative group expressed its concerns about the 2020 conference. Last year in Jerusalem our delegates urged us not to attend Lambeth 2020 if godly order in the Communion had not been restored. They respectfully called upon the Archbishop of Canterbury to effect the necessary changes that fell within his power and responsibility, stated GAFCON. We have not yet received a response from the Archbishop of Canterbury. We note that, as it currently stands, the conference is to include provinces who continue to violate Lambeth Resolution I.10 thereby putting the conference itself in violation of its own resolution: failing to uphold faithfulness in marriage and legitimising practices incompatible with Scripture. GAFCON went on to note that it has decided to host its own bishops conference on June 8-14, 2020, in Kigali, Rwanda, for bishops who refuse to attend Lambeth. On the one hand, we have no interest in attempting to rival Lambeth 2020. On the other hand, we do not want our bishops to be deprived of faithful fellowship while we wait for order in the Communion to be restored, continued GAFCON. In July and August 2020, Anglican bishops from across all over the world are scheduled to gather in Canterbury for the Lambeth Conference. The first conference was held in 1867, lasting four days and having 76 bishops present. In February, it was announced that the Anglican Communion specifically refused to invite the same-sex spouses of some of their church leadership. Other leaders with opposite sex spouses were invited. Invitations have been sent to every active bishop. That is how it should be we are recognising that all those consecrated into the office of bishop should be able to attend, stated Josiah Idowu-Fearon, secretary general of the Anglican Communion. But the invitation process has also needed to take account of the Anglican Communions position on marriage which is that it is the lifelong union of a man and a woman. That is the position as set out in Resolution I.10 of the 1998 Lambeth Conference. The decision garnered objections from more liberal regional bodies like The Episcopal Church, which denounced the decision to not invite same-sex spouses. The spouse community understands that the Anglican Communion is not of one mind with regard to marriage, and that, in the life of the communion, this is a complex issue, stated the Churchs Bishops Spouses Planning Group. Exclusion of same-gender spouses, however, seems like a simplistic reaction to this complex issue. It saddens us that all are not welcome to walk, listen, and witness with us, and that all voices will not be heard at this gathering. Evangelical Fellowship in the Anglican Communion trustee Carl Hughes told the UK publication Premiere that he was calling on both sides to calm their rhetoric. I believe that everyone should speak in a measured and respectful way, acknowledging that there are clear differences of view, said Hughes, as reported by Premiere. I think that we are probably in the position where those differences in view are irreconcilable in that they are a matter of one's particular view of doctrine and what the Bible does and doesn't say. But that doesn't mean that everyone shouldn't treat each other with respect and listen carefully to what the others are saying. Comprised of 40 provinces and approximately 80 million members, the Anglican Communion is a global body representing churches from diverse communities. The Anglican Communion has long experienced division over theological issues, including gay marriage and ordination. Those rifts widened in 2003 when The Episcopal Church in the U.S. consecrated its first openly gay bishop, V. Gene Robinson of New Hampshire. This week in Christian history: American Bible Society, Famous hymn-writer, Pope apology Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Christianity is a faith with a long and detailed history, with numerous events of lasting significance occurring throughout the ages. Each week brings the anniversaries of great milestones, horrid tragedies, amazing triumphs, telling tribulations, inspirational progress, and everything in between. Here are just a few things that happened this week, May 5-11, in Church history. They include the founding of the American Bible Society, the birth of the author of the hymn Leaning on the Everlasting Arms, and Pope John Paul II apologizing to scientists for the Churchs treatment of Galileo. 1 2 3 4 Next Asia Bibi leaves Pakistan to be reunited with daughters in Canada: reports Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Reports have indicated that Pakistani Christian mother Asia Bibi (Aasiya Noreen), who spent years on death row, left Pakistan and arrived in Canada. A British diplomat told the London-based British Pakistani Christian Association on Wednesday morning that Bibi safely left Pakistan after months of delay following the acquittal of her blasphemy charge by Pakistans Supreme Court last year. Her lawyer, Saif ul Malook, told the BBC that she already arrived in Canada. She and her husband, Ashiq Masih, have been living the last few months in protective custody and under fear of death threats from Islamic extremists who have also called for the deaths of the justices that issued her acquittal. Bibi and her husband have been waiting to leave for Canada, where her daughters have relocated. Asia Bibi on her way to Canada to be reunited with her daughters! Such great news! Nadine Maenza, a commissioner on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, tweeted, citing The Daily Mail report. Praying for her health and reunion with her family. BPCA Chairman Wilson Chowdhry, whose organization provides humanitarian assistance to persecuted Christians in Pakistan, explained that he had been in communication with Ashiq Masih daily up until Monday. "Ashiq has always remained hopeful of an imminent release from Pakistan and we have both been shocked at how long it has taken, Chowdhry said in a statement. "Asia Bibi and Ashiq have remained resolute in their faith and have prayed daily for their release and today God has answered their prayers. BPCA [is] grateful that we have been able to be a part of this family's journey to freedom and will continue to pray for them and assist them where we can. Chowdhry told The Christian Post in a text message that American diplomats have been behind the scenes from the outset. An unnamed source told The Daily Mail that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was incredibly helpful in securing Bibis release from Pakistan. The Pakistan armys objection was that if they let her go, and she went public rubbishing Pakistan, it would be bad for all of them, the source told The Daily Mail. Bibi, a farm laborer in the Punjab province, was sentenced to death in 2010 after she was accused by Muslim women of insulting Islams prophet Muhammad. Insulting Islams holy prophet is a crime punishable by death under Pakistans penal code section 295-C. After years of delay, Bibis appeal was finally heard by the Pakistan Supreme Court, which acquitted Bibi of the charge last October. Bibis acquittal was met with outrage from thousands of Islamic radicals, who took to the streets to protest after encouragement from groups like the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan. TLP lobbied to delay Bibis release from Pakistan pending a legal review. TLPs challenge to Bibis acquittal was rejected by the Supreme Court in January. Muslim-majority Pakistan ranks as the fifth worst country in the world when it comes to Christian persecution, according to Open Doors 2019 World Watch List. The nations blasphemy laws have been widely criticized by the international community since it is often used by Muslims to take advantage of religious minorities. These provisions inherently violate international standards of freedom of religion or belief, protecting beliefs over individuals, the 2019 annual report from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom reads. Accusers are not required to present proper evidence that blasphemy occurred, which leads to abuse, including societal harassment or violence. Other blasphemy law victims include two Christian brothers sentenced to death in December 2018. Qaisar and Amoon Ayub were accused of posting disrespectful material toward Islam on their website. The brothers were arrested in 2014. In addition to Bibi, an 82-year-old Ahmadiyya Muslim prisoner of conscience in Pakistan, Abdul Shakoor, was released in March after three years in prison for blasphemy. A Pakistani court reduced Shakoors eight-year sentence. He was convicted of the crime of selling his commentary on Ahmadiyya religious beliefs in his bookstore. Ahmadis are a minority sect of Islam that promotes peace and tolerance. Ahmadis face much persecution in a Pakistan that is 97 percent Sunni Muslim. [W]e have seen in the cases of Asia Bibi and Abdul Shakoor, an inclination by some on Pakistans high courts to overturn lower court rulings that were clearly bigoted restrictions of religious freedom, largely influenced by the bullying and threats of extremists in Pakistani society, USCIRF Commissioner Johnnie Moore wrote in the 2019 USCIRF report. When one reads these legal opinions, its apparent that judges are wisely utilizing both religious and legal arguments. Despite some improvements at the national level, Pakistan is still recognized as a country of particular concern for international religious freedom violations by the U.S. State Department. Pakistan was once again recommended for the CPC designation in the 2019 USCIRF report. According to BPCA, there are at least 14 blasphemy victims still in jail in Pakistan. Georgia bans abortion after heartbeat is detected, recognizes fetus as natural person Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp angered abortion supporters Tuesday when he signed a bill into law that bans abortion once a fetal heartbeat has been detected and recognizes fetuses as natural persons. "Georgia is a state that values life," Kemp said as he signed HB 481, also known as The Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act, into law. "We protect the innocent, we champion the vulnerable, we stand up and speak for those that are unable to speak for themselves." Republican State Rep. Ed Setzler, who also spoke at the bill signing, called the legislation a "common sense issue," saying that a preschooler would recognize a fetus as a baby. The Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act is a bill that recognizes something that many have known for years. It recognizes that science tells us that children in the womb are living distinct human beings that are worthy of full legal protection. It recognizes what law tells us. We follow the dictates of solid law in the foundations that even our United States Supreme Court has said that if any recognizes the personhood of a child in utero that life gets full protection of our federal Constitution and thats what the Living Infants Fairness and Equality Act does today, he said. And finally, common sense tells us, if you look at a child in the womb, with a beating heart, with a distinct blood type and you ask a preschooler, a small child, what are you looking at, they would look and say thats a baby. When you recognize what science, law and common sense tells us today, that those in utero in Georgia, with a human heartbeat, with a full circulatory system, and all the components of humanity should get full protections of our laws. Its on that foundation that we stand today. The move also drew support from pro-life supporters such as Live Action founder and President Lila Rose. This is a huge win for life. Georgia is the fourth state this year to pass a heartbeat bill, joining Kentucky, Mississippi, and Ohio. This law acknowledges the scientific fact that the pro-abortion movement tries desperately to ignore: This is a unique, individual human life in the womb, not a clump of cells; and just three weeks after fertilization, the childs little heart is already beating. Its time for society and our laws to acknowledge that there are two human beings in a pregnancy - a baby and his or her mother - and both deserve protection, Rose said in a statement to The Christian Post. Popular Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., lashed out at the legislation on Tuesday, calling it a backdoor ban on abortion. 6 weeks pregnant = 2 weeks late on your period. Most of the men writing these bills dont know the first thing about a womans body outside of the things they want from it. Its relatively common for a woman to have a late period + not be pregnant. So this is a backdoor ban, she wrote on Twitter. For context, this kicks in within days of a typical at-home test working. If you were sexually assaulted (stress delays cycle), took a morning-after pill (throws off cycle), or have an irregular cycle, youd have no idea. There are a TON of ways this law ignores basic biology, she added. In a direct response to Ocasio-Cortez, Rose said: I dont think you understand how these bills work. They ban abortion after the babys heartbeat can be heard by ultrasound, which is around 6 wks. Also, a lot of women support these life-saving laws, myself included. You should join us. Glad some of the men are on board, too. The American Civil Liberties Union and the Center for Reproductive Rights have promised to challenge the legislation long before it goes into effect in January 2020. Abortion advocates believe the legislation violates the landmark 1973 Supreme Court Roe v. Wade decision which protects a woman's right to an abortion up until when the fetus is viable, which typically happens between 24 and 25 weeks. "This law is bafflingly unconstitutional," Elisabeth Smith, chief counsel at the Center for Reproductive Rights told CBS News. "Bans like this have always been blocked by courts. We will be suing Georgia to make sure this law has the same fate." Jerry Falwell Jr. denies report he got Trump's 'fixer' to bury embarrassing 'racy' photos Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. denied reports that President Donald Trumps former lawyer Michael Cohen intervened in 2015 after someone obtained personal photographs the Falwells did not want to go public. There are no compromising or embarrassing photos of me, Falwell told conservative pundit Todd Starnes on his radio show Wednesday. According to a recording of a phone conversation between Cohen and actor Tom Arnold that was reviewed by Reuters and The Washington Post, Cohen told Arnold that the Falwells had a bunch of photographs they wanted to keep from becoming public. The photographs in question, he said, are ones that are usually kept between husband and wife. A source close to Cohen told Reuters that Falwell reached out to Cohen regarding the matter in 2015, just a few months before Falwell issued his endorsement for Trump in the 2016 presidential election. According to the source close to the matter, the person who obtained the photos had demanded money and Cohen flew to Florida to meet with the attorney of the person who possessed the photographs. Cohen was said to have told the attorney that his client is committing a crime and threatened to call law enforcement. The matter was reportedly resolved soon thereafter and the photographs were said to have been destroyed. "I was going to pay him and I was going to get the negatives and do an agreement where they turn over all technology that has the photographs or anything like that, any copies," Cohen told Arnold on the call, according to The Washington Post. "And it never happened. The guy just either deleted them on his own or what have you." The conversation between Arnold, a known Trump critic, and Cohen took place on March 25 and was recorded without Cohens knowledge. I actually have one of the photos. Its terrible, Cohen was quoted as saying in the recording, adding that he keeps the picture on his phone. However, Falwell stated that the report is not accurate. While we have a long-standing friendship with Michael Cohen, we never engaged or paid Cohen to represent us in any legal or other professional capacity, and Cohen did not ever resolve any legal matter on our behalf, Falwell told Starnes. According to The Washington Post, a lawyer for the Falwells also denied there being any personal racy photographs of Falwell and that the Falwells have never engaged Cohen in a professional capacity. Cohen served as Trumps fixer for over 10 years and is serving a three-year prison sentence for federal campaign violations, tax evasion, bank fraud, and perjury. The conversation with Arnold was first reported by The Wall Street Journal on April 24, which pointed to the fact that Cohen denied committing some of the crimes to which he pled guilty because prosecutors began targeting his wife. As the son of Liberty University founder Jerry Falwell Sr., Falwell was one of the first well-known evangelical leaders to put their support behind Trump during the Republican primary election right before the Iowa caucuses. At the time, many social conservatives were supportive of fellow candidates like Ted Cruz, Ben Carson, Marco Rubio, and Mike Huckabee. Cruz even launched his presidential campaign at Falwells Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. Two people familiar with the matter told Reuters that Cohen helped to persuade Falwell to issue his endorsement of Trump just before the Iowa caucuses. There is no evidence to suggest that Cohens alleged assistance in the matter over the photographs had influenced Falwells support for Trump. Even today, Falwell remains one of Trumps most vocal supporters, regularly issuing questionable comments on social media. Earlier this week, Falwell tweeted, perhaps jokingly, that Trump should have two years added to his presidential term as reparations for the investigation into the Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. In January, news came out that Cohen had paid John Gauger, LUs chief information officer and vice president of analytics, to rig online polls in favor of Trump ahead of the 2016 election. In response, LU praised Gauger's "success" as an "independent entrepreneur." When Cohen first pled guilty last August, Falwell quoted scripture and blamed Jeff Sessions, who was attorney general at the time. "'By their fruits, ye shall know them' Today, we saw the fruits of @jeffsessions but it is too little too late! The AG sewed the wind but he will reap the whirlwind in November!" tweeted Falwell, quoting Matthew 7:20. Although it is not known who obtained the photos mentioned in Cohens claims, historian Daniel Silliman of Valparaiso University recalled of litany of stories involving Cohen, the Falwells, and a Miami business venture that ultimately led to a lawsuit. Are all these things connected? The pool boy, the property deals, the lawsuit, the alleged racy photos, the shady deals with Michael Cohen? Silliman asked. Maybe. There are enough dots you can start to see a shape, even if you cant for-sure say what that shape is. Pastor fatally shot himself as wife, daughters burned in house, fire officials say Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A prominent Texas pastor, who was found dead along with his wife and teenage daughter after a suspicious fire broke out in their home, shot himself in the head as his family burned, the Dallas County Medical Examiner has ruled. The Feb. 28 death of Pastor Eugene Keahey, who led Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Sandbranch, was recently ruled a suicide by gunshot wound by the medical examiners office. The deaths of his two teenage daughters, Camryn Keahey, 15, and her sister Darryn Keahey, 17, were also ruled homicides resulting from thermal burns and smoke inhalation. Darryn Keahey, who had initially survived the fire which investigators believe was intentionally set, succumbed to her injuries on April 1. The cause of death for the pastors wife, DeAnna Wilson-Keahey, is still being investigated. The late pastor, who was a father of four, shared the destroyed home with his wife, two daughters and extended family. An older son and daughter were not in the home at the time of the fire. While Pastor Keahey had been well-known and beloved by locals as a community activist, investigators had been concerned about cryptic messages he shared on social media prior to the fire that suggested he may have been dealing with some kind of struggle. About three weeks before the blaze, the pastor changed his Facebook cover photo to a picture with the words, "We all have secrets." Then shortly before the fire was reported, at 3:57 a.m. on Feb. 28, he wrote "this difficult time in my life" and ended with the phrase, "Good Night Y'all." It was also reported that Keahey and his wife, who once taught elementary school, were going through financial difficulties prior to their deaths. The home in which they were found dead was sold at a foreclosure auction in February. Church member Ivory Hall told CBSDFW that he was struggling to cope with the pastors death because he had known him for years. Whenever we needed him, he was here. Hed come around and sit around the patio with us here. He was that kind of a guy, Hall said. A day or two before the house fire, he recalled how the pastor had worked to make sure he had enough water. In 2016, Keahey had lobbied to get safe drinking water to the impoverished Sandbranch community and Hall at the time begged for information on exactly what happened to such a caring minister. Hed walk the streets with people showing them about the community, said Hall. I just hope they find out exactly what happened. That is what I am waiting on. UK tax researcher fired from think tank for tweeting that 'men cannot change into women' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment For saying that males who identify as trans are not women, an internationally renowned tax expert was fired and is contesting her termination in court after being accused of "offensive and exclusionary" language. The Sunday Times reported that Maya Forstater, who was until recently a senior researcher at the London office of the Centre for Global Development, a think tank, is believed to be the first person in England to lose her job over such a statement. I support transgender peoples human rights and I believe that trans people are vulnerable, but no one group should overrule others. I lost my job for speaking up about womens rights, in a careful way and in a tone of ordinary discussion and disagreement. I worked for a think tank and I thought you ought to be able to think and talk about things. I found out I was wrong about that, she said. Index on Censorship, a campaigning publishing organization for freedom of expression, is supporting Forstater. The organization's Jodie Ginsberg said that from what she had read, Forstater had done nothing wrong "other than express an opinion that many feminists share that there should be a public and open debate about the distinction between sex and gender. In England, the debate about transgender issues has in the last year been spirited particularly as the government considers revising what is called the Gender Recognition Act to allow persons to self-identify their gender regardless of biology and without having to provide medical documentation that they have undergone a surgical procedure. Forstater's offense was that she stated on her personal Twitter account that it was true that men cannot change into women. She also referred to convicted rapist Karen White a biological male formerly known as Stephen Wood who was transferred to a women's prison where he then sexually assaulted female inmates as a "man." "When men wear make-up, heels, dresses they don't become women," Forstater said. A CGD manager informed Forstater in an email that she "stated that a mans internal feeling that he is a woman has no basis in material reality. A lot of people would find that offensive and exclusionary. CGD told the Sunday Times that employees are expected to obey its conduct policy, declining to discuss staffing matters. Forstater has long campaigned against gender stereotypes. In 2012, she co-founded the Let Toys Be Toys drive to stop toy manufacturers from producing stereotypical boys and girls items. Forstater said of her firing: It has been quite painful and quite emotional. I am the breadwinner in my family." It is just wrong that drawing attention to real problems should be described as fear- mongering, and it is dangerous for democracy if people are afraid to speak. Our institutions must protect all vulnerable groups, including women and girls, and the only way to do this is to talk openly and clearly. A crowdfunding page has been launched to raise funds for legal representation and as of Tuesday has raised nearly $75,000. "I lost my job for speaking out on women's rights and gender self ID on social media. My case is a test case to show that people should not be discriminated against for having gender critical views," the tax researcher explains on the page. "I know many people fear consequences at work if they publicly state an opinion on this issue, even in a personal capacity on their own social media, like I did. Others have been banned by social media platforms and or suspended from political parties and membership organizations. This should not happen in a democracy." In November, feminist journalist Meghan Murphy was permanently banned from Twitter for saying, among other things, that "men aren't women." She also referred to Jonathan Yaniv who occasionally goes by "Jessica" and filed 16 human rights complaints against waxing studios, claiming they discriminated against him based on his male genitalia as "him." Twitter booted her from the platform for "misgendering." Murphy has since filed a lawsuit of her own against the social media giant. Unspeakable grief: 5 things to know about the Colorado school shooting Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment One student was killed and eight others were injured Tuesday when a shooting occurred at a Colorado school that serves grades kindergarten through 12th grade. The mass shooting took place at STEM School Highlands Ranch, which is located in Douglas County and has more than 1,800 students. Police arrested two suspects, 18-year-old Devon Erickson and an unnamed juvenile, both of whom were students at the school. According to KKTV News, 18-year-old Kendrick Castillo, a student who was days away from graduating, was the lone fatality. Three of the injured remain hospitalized. Officers responded within two minutes of the school's emergency call. They "immediately engaged the suspects" and apprehended them. No gunfire was exchanged, said Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock. Erickson is scheduled to make a court appearance on Wednesday afternoon. A court appearance has not been scheduled yet for the female suspect, reported the Associated Press. In a statement posted to social media, the STEM School explained that it will be closed for the rest of the week in response to the tragedy. It is with unspeakable grief and shocking disbelief that we share this message with our school community. It is important during this difficult time that our community comes together and that we take care of one another, stated the school. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by todays tragedy, and we are heartened by the bravery of our students, staff, parents and first responders. Here are five things to know about the shooting: 1. Heroic students tackled gunman Nui Giasolli, a student who witnessed the shooting, told the Today show that several of her male classmates tackled Erickson. Kendrick lunged at him and he shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe and to run across the room to escape, Giasolli recalled. She said three other classmates Brendan Bialy, Jackson Gregory and Lucas Albertoni then brought down the gunman. They were very heroic. I cant thank them enough, she said. Bialys father, Brad, confirmed to NBC News that Bialy had helped tackle and disarm the suspect. 2. The other suspect is a juvenile female Sheriff Spurlock did not name the second suspect but said the suspect is a juvenile female. Authorities initially thought both suspects were male. We originally thought that we had a juvenile male in custody but through our interviews yesterday late afternoon determined that we have a juvenile female that is in custody right now who is the other suspect, Spurlock said Wednesday at a press conference. You have to understand that this individual is a small, young person and the identity wasnt definitive, obvious to us when they were taken into custody. 1 2 Next Trump's white evangelical support softer than you think, report says Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment White evangelical support for President Donald Trump may not be as strong as presumed, according to experts on religion and politics in the United States at a panel event hosted by a conservative think tank. The Washington, D.C.-based American Enterprise Institute hosted a panel event on Wednesday morning titled The Christian right in the Trump and post-Trump eras. Joanna Piacenza, features editor for Morning Consult, reviewed new research conducted on the views of white evangelicals and other religious groups about President Trump. The Morning Consult survey, posted Wednesday, found that white evangelicals were less likely than Republicans in general to want Trump to be the presidential nominee in 2020. Fifty-five percent of white evangelical respondents wanted Trump to be at the top of the 2020 presidential ticket, with 20 percent responding that they dont know or hold no opinion, 18 percent saying Vice President Mike Pence, and 8 percent wanting another Republican. By contrast, 71 percent of Republican respondents wanted Trump at the top of the ticket, followed by 13 percent wanting Vice President Pence, 10 percent saying they dont know or have no opinion, and 5 percent saying another Republican. This meant that among overall Republicans, there was a 16 percent higher rate of support for Trump running in 2020 than among white evangelicals. Its important to note, however, that in 2016, white evangelicals voted for Trump at an 8 to 2 margin, noted Piacenza during the panel event. So that 20 percent is about in line as what we saw two, three years ago during the election. It also means that 20 percent is up for grabs, that 8 percent could be up for grabs. Piacenza pointed out that the 55 percent support for Trump from white evangelicals was higher than white mainline Protestants (41 percent), white Catholics (42 percent), and religiously unaffiliated (24 percent). Piacenza believed evangelicals were less likely than other religious groups to not support Trump due to factors like evangelicals feeling that they are losing power and influence and being discriminated against. Released Wednesday, the Morning Consult data was taken from a survey conducted April 23-24 among 2,201 adults. From that sample space was drawn 681 respondents identifying as Republican and 368 identifying as white evangelical Protestant, with their respective margin of errors being plus or minus 4 percentage points and plus or minus 5 percentage points. David Barker, professor of government and director of the Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies at American University, told those gathered at the panel event about how evangelical support for Trump often varied on the basis of religious involvement. Barker presented research from the Democracy Funds 2018 Voter Study Group Data, which measured Trump favorability among GOP voters by different groups on a scale of 0 to 1, with 1 being the most supportive of Trump while 0 was the least supportive. Barker split evangelicals into two categories. Inactive Evangelical Christians, who subscribe to evangelical beliefs but rarely attend church, and Active Evangelical Christians, those who subscribe to evangelical beliefs and are involved in church. The research found that while Inactive Evangelical Christians had a 0.81 favorability for Trump, Active Evangelical Christians had a 0.74 favorability for Trump, which was the same as the Seculars category (0.74) but slightly higher than the overall mean (0.71). Being religious actually leads you to support Trump less among this group, Barker said. The highest level of support we see among religious people are people who identify as born-again Christians but arent actually doing anything about that most of the time. In addition to Piacenza and Barker, other panelists included Emily Ekins, research fellow and director of polling at the libertarian think tank the Cato Institute and Emma Green, staff writer at The Atlantic who specializes in politics, policy, and religion. Daniel A. Cox, research fellow at AEI who formerly served as research director at the Public Religion Research Institute, moderated the panel discussion. During his introductory remarks, Cox noted that the relationship between Trump and the conservative Christian movement defies easy explanation. From the earliest days of Trumps campaign, an open question was how would Trump, a thrice-married admitted adulterer, fare among social conservatives? Well, hes actually fared fairly well, stated Cox. Even amidst the relentless series of scandals and controversies plaguing the Trump administration, Evangelical support has been a consistent bright spot. Its the reason that a primary challenge against Trump would probably fail if it ever even materializes and why he would remain a viable contender for 2020. The panel entertained multiple factors, such as a sense by evangelicals that they are singled out for persecution by mainstream culture and a concern by evangelicals over the sweeping changes in the culture, especially on issues like gay marriage and gender identity. When analyzing factors, Ekins of Cato said that Trump, like former President Ronald Reagan, was able to make evangelicals feel he was looking out for them. Its not necessarily about which political leader best embodies your particular set of values. Its which party is looking out for you, explained Ekins. I think that Trump communicated that to them. Ronald Reagan was also personally not the most religious person but he spoke to religious people and said you have moral authority. Your beliefs matter and Im going to defend that in the arena of politics. And I think Trump did something similar. In March, a Pew Research Center analysis found that white evangelical support had fallen 9 percentage points between February 2017 and February 2019, going from 78 percent to 69 percent. The 9 point decline represented the largest decrease in support of any religious groups surveyed by Pew for their report, with the second largest being among white Catholics, who went from 52 percent in 2017 to 44 percent in 2019. An August 2018 survey found that roughly half of white evangelicals do not think that Trump has set a high moral standard for the presidency since taking office, explained Pew in their March report. Some prominent evangelical leaders, such as Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Church, have expressed ambivalence about Trump and concern about some of his policies. Others, such as Beth Moore, founder of Living Proof Ministries, openly oppose the president. At NYCs largest ever pro-life rally, women, abortion survivors take a stand Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment NEW YORK For several hours on Saturday, the island in the middle of Times Square between Broadway and Fashion Avenue was transformed into an open-air church for pro-life advocates who rallied against abortion, singing praises to God and sharing testimonies of survival. I came here to tell a story, Mary Pendergraft began as the crowd sang How Great Thou Art. The sun had come up after a wet, cold and overcast morning. It had warmed up enough for people who had braved raindrops to maintain their spot at the historic anti- abortion Alive From New York rally, hosted by Focus on the Family that attracted almost 20,000. We were thrilled with Saturdays turnout, which far exceeded expectations. That close to 20,000 people would jam into New York Citys Times Square on a Saturday to celebrate life should encourage everyone who continues to champion and protect the most vulnerable and innocent among us. It was a triumph and the largest pro-life gathering in the history of New York City! Paul Batura, vice president of Focus on the Family, said in a statement to The Christian Post. Pendergraft had been listening quietly as other pro-life supporters like Manhattan resident Lee Mason talked about how refreshing and inspiring the event was for pro-life advocates like her in a city where abortion is now legal essentially up until the point of birth. Those of us who hold that life begins at conception in Manhattan are probably a pretty rare breed and to speak about it is almost to pick a fight because there are so many atheists and people who have no idea whats going on in the universe and dont care. So we just keep mum for the most part but this is an extremely wholesome development. I hope it happens every week from now on, Mason said. She had struck up a cordial conversation with Pendergraft while waiting for the speakers to take the stage for the formal Alive From New York program, but Mason had no idea of the journey Pendergraft traveled to declare abortion a horror on humanity. Mary My story is I was raised Catholic but I walked away from the church and I got married and I had a wonderful first son. But my second son, his head was small and he was challenged physically, Pendergraft said. He could not walk or talk. So when she got pregnant a third time, Pendergraft became scared and started down a path she would later regret. I was worried about having another son like [that]. So I had an abortion. For a long time I did not think about it. My husband and I got separated and I started seeing a man and in the process I got pregnant again. And the second time I had an abortion, she said. Pendergraft eventually found salvation in a Baptist church and stayed quiet about her abortions for a long time until Jesus told her this year to begin sharing her story. This year the Lord has laid it on my heart that I need to go tell people about this. I need to tell them the son that I had who is challenged is 47 years old. He goes to an activity center. He still cant walk or talk. Hes incontinent but he is the light of my life, she said. My older son, he and his wife could not have children. And they adopted a child and shes 13 years old. I just want to say there is life, there is joy, there is forgiveness. We need to tell the people that killing babies is not the way to make things better, she said. The parents, if they dont want the child, they should allow for that child to be adopted by someone because there are many women and men out there who want children and cannot have them. And the people in America have destroyed generations of our children up to this point. Across from the island on the western bank of Fashion Avenue, abortion advocates worked hard to drown out the pro-life message. A relentless band trumpeted attention to banners declaring statements like Thank God for Abortion and Focus on Your Own Family as people danced and shouted at the Christians singing praises. Cindy At 16, years old, I aborted my baby and the grieving for 40 years never ended until the Lord showed me I have to speak about it and it was very hard, Cindy Fiore of Suffolk County, New York, said. I went kicking and screaming. And once you speak about it by your testimony and the blood of the Lamb, they will know. The Smith Town Gospel Tabernacle member said her church runs a counseling program from women who have had abortions called Beauty for Ashes. We have had over 40 women now who are now free to speak to others and its just been the Lord. Six years He spoke this into us and were standing strong, Fiore said. The ministry is now seeking to raise money for a home to house at-risk pregnant women who are vulnerable to abortion. She absolutely, 100 percent supports overturning Roe v. Wade and praised President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence for their pro-life advocacy. We have a president that went from being a sinner saved by grace [to] speaking Scripture in the White House right now with an amazing vice president praying him in. So it could be done. Thats why the enemy is going crazy right now cause he knows his time is short, Fiore said. She admitted that even though she supports overturning Roe v. Wade as a good thing, she believes changing the heart of the public on abortion is more important to her. Its beyond overturning Roe v. Wade. Its changing the heart of His people. Changing them. I mean, you had a sleeping giant that has now been awakened for such a time as this, she said. Leslie Leslie Dean, regional coordinator of Silent No More Awareness Campaign for Delaware and Maryland, wore a button that announced I regret my abortion. My abortions almost destroyed my life, she said. I believed the doctors when they told me it wasnt a real baby. It wasnt alive. And then I got pregnant with a baby that I wanted and saw my sonogram, the same age of the babies that I lost. I knew Id been lied to. And it almost destroyed me. I literally was suicidal, she explained. Dean wasnt a Christian at the time she had her abortion but once she was convicted about her actions she was ultimately able to find forgiveness and peace in God. I was actually pro-choice prior to that and it was through Gods grace that He put me in touch with somebody that He was continually talking to about my life and she led me to Jesus and thats when I finally found forgiveness. Up to that point, there was no hope, she said. [Im here today] because they (Focus on the Family) are showing people the truth and setting them free. She argued that abortion advocates have been spending a lot of money to lobby legislators to normalize the practice but she believes that pro-abortion legislators will eventually see the error of their ways. Alive From NY rally against abortion inTimes Square https://t.co/36NwWlXChn Leonardo Blair (@leoblair) May 4, 2019 I think that there are a lot of pockets lined with a lot of money to vote a certain way for certain things and abortion is one of them. And I dont want to mention any names but in the movie Unplanned, it says one of the biggest corporations in America, and Planned Parenthood lines a lot of pockets with a lot of money to vote for the way they want you to vote, she said. New York is going to have to wake up one day and realize what theyve been doing. And its going to be a sad day. I dont know when its going to happen or how soon its going to happen but somebody is going to finally wake up and see whats been going on. It happened with the Holocaust, it happened with slavery and at the times that those things were happening, it was accepted and then somebody went oh my god, this is so wrong. And thats going to happen in America. Gods not going to continue to let this happen. He cant, she said. She agreed that overturning Roe v. Wade shouldnt be the focus of the fight against the culture of abortion. I dont think thats the issue. I dont think having Roe v. Wade overturned is the issue. The issue is people knowing the truth, people knowing these are babies, these are human beings that are being murdered, and they are being torn apart and its wrong. And thats what has to happen. Its not about politics. Its about moral judgment and people just realizing what they are doing, she said. Andrea Andrea Coble of Stafford, Virginia, had been reeling. Had anyone heard the comments made by Democrat Alabama State Rep. John Rogers? Rogers recently argued against an abortion ban in that state by saying apparently in reference to black children that some kids are unwanted, so you kill them now or kill them later. You bring them into the world unwanted, unloved, then you send them to the electric chair. So you kill them now or you kill them later, he said. Andrea believes Christians must stand against the kind of hopelessness shared by leaders like Rogers. Heres where Christians have to understand something. When youve got leadership that tells its people that hope is gone, its better to kill your children now than to be on the streets and get killed on the streets or be in prison that is the devil in the flesh, period, she said. That kind of thinking is like their final solution. And that means no hope. That means no faith in God and we are finished. We have to speak up against these kind of representatives because they are leading this country. That is seriously scary that we have arrived at this point. These people are here to make a stand for life and make a stand for hope. Amy Amy Fling had traveled to New York City with her sister all the way from Columbia, South Carolina. Were very pro-life. We believe that life begins at conception and up to natural death. I for one was never able to conceive so when I see women who have conceived and have abortion after abortion after abortion, it hurts my heart because we try to look into adoption and its so expensive. And there are families out there that would love to have these babies, she said. I would love to see the money thats going to Planned Parenthood, go to adoption agencies and pro-life legislation so that people like me could adopt more easily, Fling, who suffers from cerebral palsy, explained. Silver lining The pro-life faction chanted J-E-S-U-S repeatedly as the pro-abortion group shouted under the watchful eyes of New York Police officers. Lee Mason thought about what the spectacle meant for the city and the conversation on abortion. The only silver cloud, historians say, is it doesnt necessarily come to physical fighting. A little hard to see how thats going to happen considering the mess were in but [it] amazes me, she said. I am interested in trying to have more gatherings like this because I think its extremely healthy it gives many of us [in the city] permission to speak up in a way in which many of us have felt afraid to do. My neighbors, theyre Columbia professors. As far as I can tell, they are completely insane on this matter. What am I going to do? Have them torch my apartment? No, she quipped. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment No one names their son Jehoahaz. Its just too tough to pronounce. On the other hand, most of us know a Josiah or two. Not only is it a much more pronounceable name, but as we read in 2 Kings chapter 22, Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and followed completely the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left. See, King Josiah stands out among Judahs final monarchs. Not only did he refuse to take part in idol worship, he tore down the high places and the Asherah poles, and he reinstated the worship and feasts of the true God. According to the Bible, Josiah did all this because of a discovery in the Temple of a scroll of the Law, which had long been neglected and forgotten. He wept over Judahs disobedience and recommitted his kingdom and people to the covenant recorded in that scroll. As a result, God promised that the judgment He would eventually send would not occur during Josiahs lifetime. A much more recent discovery brought this particular section of 2 Kings to light even more. The Times of Israel recently described two tiny objects unearthed at a dig in the City of David: an agate stone and a lump of burnt clay that both had Hebrew inscriptions which were the names of two individualsIkkar son of Matanyahuand Nathan-Melech, Servant of the King. Whoever can tell me which one of those two names appears in Scripture deserves this weeks Bible trivia award. These were seals, you seethe kind once pressed into wax or dipped into ink to sign letters. According to Yiftah Shalev of the Israel Antiquities Authority, where these seals were found sets the 2,600-year-old signets apart for archaeologists. They were discovered in the remains of what was likely an administrative building dating to the 8th century B.C. Many such artifacts hit the antiquities market, but often no one is really sure where they come from. These, however, were found in their true archaeological context. The name that astute students of Scripture might recognize, by the way, is Nathan-Melech, an official who gets just a passing mention in 2 Kings 23:11, just as Josiah is purging Jerusalem of the trappings of idolatry. Outside of the Bible, this tiny clay seal is the first confirmation of this mans existence. And to be clear, its the obscurity of his nameboth in recorded history and in Scripturethat should amaze us. In biblical archaeology, its often the big players we look forMoses and David and Paul. Last years announcement of a ring bearing Pontius Pilates name was big news, and rightly so. Its a name we say every time we recite the Apostles Creed, proclaiming that Jesus redeeming work happened in real history. Still, names like Nathan-Melech, Servant of the King, may offer an even stronger confirmation that the events recorded in the Bible actually happened. The seemingly insignificant name from 2 Kings reminds us that King Josiah, who rediscovered the Law in the Temple and cleansed the nation of idols, isnt just a character from a mythical story. He was a man in history; he had court officials and administrative headquarters; and he was part of the lineage that led to another Kingthe Lion Who sits on the throne of Judah and is ushering in a Kingdomone that, unlike ancient Jerusalemwill never be conquered. Of course, we dont believe this big story because someone unearthed a piece of clay with an obscure name on it. But it is exciting to see how even the smallest details in Scripture can hold up under the digging and the scrutiny. Come to BreakPoint.org and well link you to more on this incredible story about this very exciting discovery. Resources Tiny First Temple find could be first proof of aide to biblical King Josiah, Amanda Borschel-Dan | The Times of Israel | March 31, 2019 Clay seal of King Josiah's aide is found in the remains of an ancient office burnt down by Babylonians in 586 BC adding weight to proof that the king really existed, Joe Pinkstone | Dailymail.co.uk | April 1, 2019 A Brief Sample of Archaeology Corroborating the Claims of the New Testament WHAT THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL RECORD SHOWS, J. Warner Wallace | BreakPoint.org | May 15, 2017 Real History, Toilets and All Our Favorite Archaeological Finds, Eric Metaxas | BreakPoint.org | January 11, 2017 Originally posted at Breakpoint. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment United Methodism is becoming countercultural after a century or more of American cultural conformity. This transition is required for its survival but it will be rocky. When passed at Februarys United Methodist General Conference, the Traditional Plan excited widespread indignation in America. A large and historically liberal Mainline Protestant denomination had not only reaffirmed historic Christian sexual teaching, it had strengthened it. History was not supposed to move in that direction, at least according to secular prophets. April 26, the denominations top court again okayed most of that Traditional Plan, making it now law for the 12.5 million member global church. Some disappointed church liberals still hope for revocation at the next General Conference in 2020. But the wiser among them realize that membership trends, with growth in Africa and decline in the American churchs most liberal regions, preclude such hope. After the General Conference, many U.S. clergy published newspaper ads in large urban areas denouncing the Traditional Plan and affirming their own more progressive views. They essentially apologized for United Methodisms countercultural stance, in sync with historic and universal Christianity, that sex is for husband and wife. Perhaps there should have been similar newspaper ads after the much less noticed 2016 General Conference, which revoked much of United Methodisms longtime support for abortion rights. The churchs membership in the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, which the church helped found in 1973, was cancelled. And the church deleted its 40 year old support for Roe v. Wade. United Methodist support for abortion rights began in 1970, preceding even the Supreme Court ruling three years later. For most of the last century United Methodism and its predecessor bodies have followed American culture on key ethical issues to the neglect of historic Christian teaching. Methodism was commonly called Americas church and it typically echoed what American culture declared as verities. Methodists were not fundamentalists or holy rollers. They were mainstream and respectable, espousing no opinions that would disturb the secular culture. Church agencies, bishops and related schools were all predictable officiants for blessing conventional secular American opinion. This marriage between Methodism and American culture endured so long as that culture accepted at least non-threatening Mainline Protestantism. But secular culture has become impatient even with emasculated religion. And Mainline Protestantism, after over 50 years of decline, no longer even offers significant political or cultural cachet. Generations of United Methodist clergy were trained in American cultural conformity by their churchs seminaries and hierarchy. And many are now befuddled that their church, thanks to its global membership and irrepressible evangelical subculture, is moving towards nonconformity. This adversarial stance with American secular culture is discomfiting. And these clergy were never trained to deal with it. Hence many have responded with newspaper ads and online petitions assuring the secular culture: We are still with you! Many of these clergy trained in the ways of cultural conformity eventually will leave global United Methodism to create new liberal U.S. denominations that avoid countercultural adversity. These new denominations will fare as well as other declining Mainline Protestant denominations. Shorn of these clergy, including most U.S. bishops, nearly all the official seminaries, church agencies and other institutional forces for cultural conformity, global United Methodism will have to develop new resources as a countercultural force in America. There will be new seminaries and other forms of theological training, new publishing and media outlets, new less inert agencies, new concepts of episcopal leadership, new focus on soul-winning and church planting, new understandings of Christian community that is joyfully countercultural. There are traumatic and exciting years ahead for Methodism as it painfully detaches from American cultural conformity and relearns how to be more fully part of the universal church. Who will teach us? Who will lead us? Some will wonder if it were not safer to have remained a dying Mainline Protestant denomination, a process with which we were at least very familiar. We will have to trust, wait and behold what dangerous greatness lies ahead. Originally posted at Juicy Ecumenism. 100 Nigerian Christians killed in April by Fulani militants, Boko Haram: NGO report Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment At least 100 Christians in Nigeria were killed and hundreds of others injured in April, according to a human rights watchdog group warning that Fulani attacks against Christian farming communities seem to be spreading further south. The Anambra-based nongovernmental organization known as the International Society for Civil Liberties & the Rule of Law (Intersociety) released a special report this week stating that the 100 Christians were killed by Fulani herdsmen and armed jihadist groups like Boko Haram in April. The report details that between 750800 Christians have been killed by armed jihadist groups in the African nation during the first four months of 2019. Of those killings, the NGO states that about 550 to as many as 600 killings were perpetrated by Fulani Islamic militias associated with the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria MACBAN, a federally registered group that advocates for Fulani pastoralists whom critics have called for to be labeled as a terror organization. In the just past four months of 2019 (JanuaryApril), the jihadist group had butchered 550600 Christians with hundreds of homes and dozens of churches torched or destroyed, the NGO reports. The other 200 killings thus far in 2019, Intersociety reports, have been carried out by Islamic extremist group Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa, which has terrorized northeastern Nigeria, parts of Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. While estimates on the number of people killed in societal violence in Nigeria often vary, Intersociety board chairman Emeka Umeagbalasi, a Christian criminologist and human rights activist, told The Christian Post that the numbers the organization presents are based on empirical evidence that can be defended in court. While attacks on Christian farming communities over the last several years have largely occurred in the countrys Middle Belt as Fulani herders from the north have migrated, the report warns that victims in the southeast Anambra state and southern Delta state were also included in the latest round of killings in April. The latest round of anti-Christian killings or massacres in the country not only translates to a monthly average of 180200 in the past four months, with daily average of six to seven Christian deaths, but the killings are steadily creeping toward the Southern part of Nigeria, particularly the Southeast and South-south; capable of igniting holy war and intertribal cleansing, the report reads. On April 12, suspected Fulani militants were reported to have stormed a farm settlement in West Anambra and killed six people while injuring 30 others. The extremists were also said to have killed people, burned houses and raped women. The Guardian reports that as many as 11 people were killed by herdsmen attacks against farming communities in Delta in early April, leading a state official to ask Buhari and other office holders to help stop Fulani attacks against innocent people on farmlands in the state. The report also highlights more killings in the Kajuru Local Government Area of the Kaduna State, an area that has been plagued by killings in recent months. On April 8, the NGO reports that at least 22 Christians were killed in an attack carried out by suspected Fulani extremists. The Punch reports that two Christian boys were beaten while on their way home from the market last week in Kajuru after the body of a Hausa Fulani boy was discovered. One boy was taken to the hospital where he later died. Intersociety has long criticized the federal governments inability to hold perpetrators of the attacks accountable. The Intersociety report was highly critical of MACBAN, an organization that the Christian Association of Nigeria had previously called on President Muhammadu Buhari, a Fulani himself, to prosecute. MACBAN also has Muhammadu Buhari as its lifetime patron, the Intersociety report stresses. Totality of these has emboldened the group and escalated its jihadist activities which have risen alarmingly since June 2015 a month after Mr. Buhari became the president of Nigeria. According to the International Crisis Group, Buhari and his aides have rejected any notion that he is complicit in Fulani attacks. The nonprofit research organization adds that such a charge of pro-Fulani bias on Buharis part is unsustainable due to the Buhari governments inability to quell the escalation of banditry and killings in the predominantly Muslim Zamfara state. But still some advocates for the Christian communities think the government is culpable. "These communities and villages have been displaced and ransacked and you see Fulani imposing themselves in that community, Stephen Enada, co-founder of the International Committee on Nigeria, previously told CP. They are not arrested or being persecuted. Rather, it is just government inaction showing us that government is culpable." Intersociety had previously reported that Fulani extremists were responsible for the death of about 2,400 Christians in 2018. Most recently, over a dozen Christians were killed by Fulani extremists during an infants dedication service in Nasarawa on Palm Sunday. Violence between Muslim Fulani extremists and predominantly Christian farming communities in the Middle Belt has largely been described by the federal government, international media and prominent human rights groups as a herder-farmer conflict over land rights. But Christian advocates in or from Nigeria have warned that the conflict has taken on a religious element in recent years and that calling it a farmer-herder conflict simplifies the catastrophic incidents. While herder communities have been victimized in attacks or reprisals carried out by militants and teens from farming communities, Umeagbalasi estimates that there is about one reprisal attack from a farming community for every 20 attacks committed by Fulani extremists. Jack McCaslin, a research associate for the Council on Foreign Relations, wrote in a recent op-ed that while violence in Nigeria might fall along ethnic and religious lines, it is not necessarily driven by those distinctions. But when it comes to Fulani violence against Christian farming communities, Umeagbalasi believes that calling it a farmer-herder clash is a false claim perpetuated by the Nigerian government. The government further down-plays, trivializes and stigmatizes the pure Christian genocide as herders-farmers clashes and stops at nothing in censoring and gagging media reports of the butcheries, the Intersociety report reads, adding that the Nigerian government only accounts for no less than 980 Christian deaths since August 2015. Intersociety reports that there have been at least 6,000 Christian deaths and destruction of over 1,000 churches at the hands of Fulani extremists between June 2015 and December 2018. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom has recommended that the U.S. State Department designate Nigeria as a "country of particular concern" for religious freedom. In its 2019 annual report, USCIRF stated that ethnic and religious identity in Nigeria is often "intertwined" in the context of societal conflicts. "The dynamic of the religious and ethnic violence and where and how religion and ethnicity overlap is highly localized," the USCIRF report explains. As for Boko Haram, also known as the Islamic State in West Africa, it continues its terror on villages in the Lake Chad area. In late April, it was reported that suspected Boko Haram militants killed about 25 people returning from a wedding in the Kuda-Kaya village in Adamawa state. One doctor spoken to by Royal London in preparation of this report said that action was needed so that consultants can go back to talking about patients rather than pensions. Others pointed out that NHS waiting time initiatives to drive down patient waits were being undermined by the effects of the pension tax regime. Doctors reported inventing DIY solutions to these issues including what has become known as the hokey-cokey approach, involving being a member of the NHS pension scheme for one month, opting out for eleven and then repeating the process again the next year in order to avoid big tax bills. Key conclusions of the report include: - This issue is likely to bite much more in 2019/20 than in previous years; this is because the ability to carry forward unused annual allowances from up to three previous years will now only go back to 2016/17 the first year when the tapered annual allowance was in force; previously, doctors could carry forward from 2015/16 when no reduction applied; - One option favoured by the Chancellor in his recent evidence to the Treasury Committee is to make changes within the NHS Pension Scheme and/or NHS pay arrangements; but the report finds that these would largely be sticking plaster solutions for a more fundamental problem - The best solution would be to remove a complex and unpredictable feature of the tax system the tapered annual allowance even if this required a reduction in the overall annual allowance; Commenting, Steve Webb, Director of Policy at Royal London said: It is utterly absurd that doctors are having to consider their pension tax position before deciding whether or not to take on an additional shift or cover for an absent colleague. The NHS is structured around senior clinicians taking on additional roles and responsibilities and this whole culture is being undermined by a bewildering system of pension tax relief. Rather than tinkering with the NHS pension scheme, the Treasury should abolish the ludicrous and capricious system of tapering annual allowances for tax relief. Patient care must not continue to suffer on the altar of Treasury intransigence. The new policy paper: Finding the right medicine solving the problems between doctors and their pension schemes begins by explaining the current system of pension tax relief, including the system of tapering annual limits on contributions for those on higher incomes. It points out that the system contains an unwelcome cliff edge whereby a small amount of extra earnings can trigger a large tax bill. Next, the paper reviews options for reforming the NHS pension scheme, noting that other schemes such as the Local Government Pension Scheme and the Universities Superannuation Scheme have been swifter to offer new flexibilities to members. LGPS now offers members the chance of a 50-50 arrangement where they can pay half contributions for half benefits. This would reduce (though not eliminate) the problems faced by some doctors. But none of these changes would deal with the underlying problem of a highly complex and unpredictable tax regime. The paper therefore looks at the wider system of pension tax relief and at potential reforms which could be brought in relatively quickly to address this issue. It notes that the tapering of the annual allowance does not just affect doctors but also affects self-employed people, those receiving bonuses, and anyone else whose annual income is unpredictable. The paper concludes that reform of the tapered annual allowance would not go far enough and that outright abolition is required. If the Treasury decided that it did not want the overall cost of tax relief to increase, the paper notes that a simple across-the-board reduction in maximum limits on annual contributions would probably be required. Case Study Ami Jones MBE, consultant in anaesthesia and intensive care medicine for the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board As well as her role as a consultant, Ami Jones is Clinical Lead of the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS Cymru), the medical team who work on board the Wales Air Ambulance Charity helicopters. She is a Lieutenant Colonel in the Royal Army Medical Corps and has undertaken two tours of duty in Afghanistan, and received an MBE for her service in 2017 Dr Jones is one of large numbers of consultants affected by the NHS pensions tax issue. Like many senior clinicians, she takes on many additional leadership roles in addition to her regular duties. These additional roles and shifts do not generate any additional NHS pension rights, but they cause Dr Jones annual allowance to be reduced because of the tapered annual allowance rules. Whilst it might make financial sense for Dr Jones to restrict her hours and her work she has chosen to carry on with these additional roles, despite the negative impact on her finances. But she is aware that many other doctors have felt that they had no choice but to restrict their hours and she can see the strain this is putting on the health service. Dr Jones said: My primary goal is to do the best for my patients and I willingly take on extra responsibilities to help me do this. But it does not seem right that doctors who take on extra roles or cover long-term gaps on the rota can find themselves financially penalised. We need a system where all doctors can concentrate on what is right for their patients without having to do complex calculations about their pensions or tax bills. Finding the right medicine how to fix the problems between doctors and their pension scheme Asia Bibi supporter faces deportation from the UK An appeal has been launched to stop the deportation of a Pakistani Christian who sought sanctuary in the UK after protesting against his country's blasphemy laws. Azeem Wazir left Pakistan in 2015 after a fatwah was issued against him following his protests against the blasphemy laws and his involvement in a campaign called 'Stop Killing Christians'. He has been living in Bristol since that time but was detained without warning in Colnbrook Immigration Removal Centre, outside London, last week and told he faces deportation back to Pakistan on Friday. News of his imminent deportation came on the same day as it was revealed that Asia Bibi, a Christian mother who spent nearly 10 years in prison for blasphemy, had finally been able to leave Pakistan for the safety of Canada, where she has been granted asylum. Mr Wazir's lawyers have launched an urgent appeal to stop his deportation and a petition has been started calling on Home Secretary Sajid Javid to intervene and reconsider his case. Efforts to stop Mr Wazir's deportation are being supported by the Mayor of Bristol Marvin Rees and the Bishop of Bristol, the Rt Rev Vivienne Faull. Mr Rees said: "It is inconceivable that as Canada opens its doors to give Asia Bibi and her family safety, we are on the verge of sending one of her public supporters back to Pakistan where he faces clear and very serious danger. "Azeem is a valued member of the Bristol community and we are doing everything we can to try to make sure the Home Office reconsider this case." Bishop Faull said: "We know that the situation for Christians in many parts of the world is extremely difficult, and Pakistan is sadly no exception. "It's extremely concerning to see someone like Azeem being threatened with deportation at such short notice when his case clearly warrants fuller consideration." Blasphemy in Pakistan: a cause of suffering for so many Christians Asia Bibi is now free but Release partners in Pakistan say there are 218 other Christians who still face blasphemy charges a disproportionate number of those accused. And when they are accused, individuals, families and entire communities face violence at the hands of vigilantes. The British Pakistani Christian Association believes nine out of ten Pakistanis still consider Asia Bibi to be a blasphemer, making her a target for assassination. According to the BBC, since 1990 more than 70 people have been killed by lynch mobs after being accused of blasphemy. And Amnesty International describes a large increase in blasphemy cases since the 1980s: "According to [the National Commission for Justice and Peace] NCJP, a total of 633 Muslims, 494 Ahmadis, 187 Christians and 21 Hindus have been accused under various provisions on offences related to religion since 1987." Since that figure was compiled Release partners put the number of Christians higher at 218. Islamist influence The influence of Islamist parties in Pakistan is growing. Islamist parties are calling for a tightening of Sharia (Islamic law). At their most extreme, they are campaigning for a harder line against blasphemy. The Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP), is calling for blasphemers to be put to death. During the elections the party's slogan was 'Death to blasphemers'. After the initial Supreme Court decision, TLP supporters flooded streets in several cities calling for Asia Bibi to be hanged and the government to be overthrown. After a long, tense standoff, the ringleaders were arrested. TLP banners have depicted "holy warriors" who have murdered alleged blasphemers. These include Mumtaz Qadri, the bodyguard who assassinated Punjab governor Salman Taseer after he called for the repeal of the country's blasphemy laws. In March 2011, the only Christian member of the cabinet was shot dead for backing his call to change the blasphemy laws. Minorities Minister Shahbaz Bhatti had earlier received death threats for speaking out. Even to want to discuss the blasphemy laws was, it seemed, an act of blasphemy. Prime Minister Imran Khan has since apparently nailed his colours to the mast over the blasphemy laws. He said, "We are standing with article 295c and will defend it." Section 295c is the blasphemy clause that mandates the death penalty for any "imputation, insinuation or innuendo" against Islam's prophet Mohammed. Repeal Release International has long campaigned for the repeal of the blasphemy laws. These notorious laws are often used to target minorities and to take out rivals. Few accused of blasphemy can live in safety, even if they are acquitted. Extremist vigilantes see it as their religious duty to put them to death. Christians face harassment in Pakistan in a variety of ways. Hundreds of women and girls are abducted each year, and many are forced into marriages with Muslim men. Christians are harassed for wearing religious symbols and have been targeted by Islamic State terrorists and the Taliban. The most extreme case was the Lahore bombing in Easter 2016 of a children's play area, frequented by Christians. Release is training Christian leaders in Pakistan and teaching villagers to stand firm against persecution and discrimination. Release is also producing and distributing radio programmes and video materials, as well as portions of Scripture. Release International CEO Paul Robinson said: "In the Asia Bibi case, the Supreme Court revealed what Release has been saying for years, that accusations of blasphemy can be malicious and built on lies, simply to settle scores. These blasphemy cases and the blasphemy law itself must now come under review." Christian mother Asia Bibi has finally left Pakistan Christian mother Asia Bibi has finally departed from Pakistan, where she spent nearly a decade on death row. She has gone to Canada where her two daughters have already been living since last year after being granted asylum. Her lawyder Saif Ul Malook confirmed the news to The Guardian, saying it was a "big day" for her and her family. "Asia Bibi has left Pakistan and reached Canada. She has reunited with her family," he said. Bibi was charged with blasphemy after sharing a cup of water with Muslim farmworkers, who called her unclean because she was a Christian. She was sentenced to death in 2010 but after an appeals process lasting years, was finally acquitted last October and freed from prison. Although she was released from prison last November, she had to wait much longer for true freedom when she was forced into hiding following death threats and nationwide protests calling for her execution. It was feared she would be trapped in the country for years when opponents launched a legal challenge against the Supreme Court's decision to acquit her. But in January, the courts upheld the original ruling, paving the way for her to leave the country. Release International CEO Paul Robinson questioned why it had taken so long for her to be able to leave the country. "We are overjoyed that Asia is finally free. But why has it taken so long for this innocent woman to be allowed to leave?" he said. "The government of Pakistan must act now to safeguard its Christian minority against mob reprisals by stepping up security against any suggestion of rioting and violence. "And it must urgently review the case against every other prisoner who has been accused and jailed for blasphemy." Henrietta Blyth, head of Open Doors UK and Ireland said, "We are overjoyed that after years of unjust imprisonment and uncertainty while under protective custody, this devout Christian woman has finally been able to embrace her freedom. "It has been a long and extremely difficult journey for her and her family. Asia Bibi's steadfast faith is a true inspiration to millions of Pakistani Christians and to all of us worshipping freely here in the UK." Following news of her departure, Release International is asking Pakistan to free 200 other Christians behind bars for blasphemy. Release partners say there are 218 other Christians still facing blasphemy charges in Pakistan. The organisation warns that they and their entire families are at risk of violence at the hands of vigilantes prepared to take the law into their own hands. Mr Robinson called for an urgent review of the blasphemy laws. "In the Asia Bibi case, the Supreme Court revealed what Release has been saying for years, that accusations of blasphemy can be malicious and built on lies, simply to settle scores," he said. "These blasphemy cases and the blasphemy law itself must now come under review." British Pakistani Christian Association Chairman, Wilson Chowdhry, echoed the calls for reform of the blasphemy laws, which he called "draconian". He said he had last spoken with Mrs Bibi's husband Ashiq Masih on Sunday and that the couple had remained faithful despite repeated delays to their departure from Pakistan. "Ashiq has always remained hopeful of an imminent release from Pakistan and we have both been shocked at how long it has taken," he said. "Asia Bibi and Ashiq have remained resolute in their faith and have prayed daily for their release and today God has answered their prayers. "BPCA are grateful that we have been able to be a part of this family's journey to freedom and will continue to pray for them and assist them where we can." British Pakistani Christian Association said it was continuing to support 15 other Christians accused of blasphemy listed below: Church calls on UK to work with Pakistan in ending misuse of blasphemy law The Moderator of the Church of Scotland General Assembly is calling upon the UK to use its relations with Pakistan to end misuse of the country's blasphemy laws. The call for action came on the same day as it emerged that Asia Bibi, a Christian mother who spent nearly a decade in prison for blasphemy, had finally been able to leave the country, months after her conviction was overturned. Kirk Moderator the Rt Rev Susan Brown, said: "I am glad that Asia Bibi is finally on her way to Canada but I continue to pray for her safety. "This young woman was arrested 10 years ago, convicted and sentenced to death under Pakistan's blasphemy law. She has lost so many years of her life through malicious allegations simply because she is a Christian." Christian human rights groups have warned for years that the laws are being used as a tool to persecute and harrass Christians, who account for less than 2 per cent of Pakistan's population. READ MORE: The UK must put pressure on governments in countries where Christians are being persecuted Although Pakistan is a Muslim-majority country, moderate Muslims have also been victims of the laws, which make it a crime punishable by death to insult the Prophet Muhammad. The Church of Scotland has also campaigned against the misuse of the blasphemy laws for many years but Prime Minister Imran Khan has so far disappointed Christians by promising that there will be no reform for now. Church of Scotland partners in Pakistan report that at least seven other individuals - five Christians and two Muslims - are awaiting trial on similar charges to those faced by Mrs Bibi. "We urge the authorities in the UK and Pakistan to act and end the misuse of this law," said Mrs Brown. "With Asia Bibi's release, let's hope that people of all faiths and none, in every part of the world, might learn to be more gracious towards each other. "It is also my hope that Pakistani Christians are treated more kindly here in the UK." History is at risk of repeating itself, UN special adviser warns religious leaders Signs of the anti-Semitism, xenophobia and intolerance that overshadowed Europe in the lead-up to the Second World War are "resurfacing", a UN summit of religious leaders has heard. Adama Dieng, UN special adviser on the prevention of genocide, issued the warning at the Second Global Summit on Religion, Peace and Security held in Geneva last week. "Signs of the '30s are resurfacing," Dieng, a lawyer from Senegal, told the summit. "We are witnessing anti-Semitism rising. We see anti-Muslim hatred. We are seeing the persecution of Christians [...] xenophobia and incitement. "Unless we are blind or of bad faith, we should admit that it's time to stand up, it is time to speak out." He said that religion was not the problem but rather people "simply manipulating religion" to commit crimes. Syrian Islamic scholar Shaykh Muhammad Al-Yaqoubi said that religion was being "hijacked" to achieve dubious political aims. "Religion is a source of peace. Anything that contradicts this is not a part of religion," he said. "Our job as religious leaders is to stop those hijacking religion," he said, adding, "There is no feud between Islam and Judaism." Rabbi Michael Melchior spoke to delegates about a religious coalition for peace that is working in the Middle East with people who have been radicalised or convicted on terrorism charges. He said the coalition was reaching out to them because they "are the ones we need to convince". "To be with nice people is easy," he said. "We need to work with all groups to empower each other." Rudelmar Bueno de Faria, ACT Alliance general secretary, told delegates that "balanced" views acknowledging the "multi-causal nature" of poverty, conflict, exclusion, discrimination and hate speech were being challenged by "simplistic and polarised fundamentalist narratives". He said it was the job of religious leaders to give moral direction to society. "Religious leaders must act as a moral compass and welcome those who want to protect the most vulnerable against the regression of their fundamental human rights," he said. US and UK should use foreign policy to help persecuted Christians, say Church leaders The Archbishop of Canterbury hosted US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt at a meeting of faith leaders on Wednesday to discuss how Christians can be protected from persecution. The Most Rev Justin Welby said the meeting also discussed ways to ensure freedom of religion and belief for people of all faiths and traditions. The Archbishop raised two concerns during the meeting, one being that the UK use its trade links with countries where persecution occurs to promote freedom of worship. "We have valid and essential foreign policy links around the world. But as you know better than I do, in some of them freedom of religion and belief is not accepted," he said in an address. "We would like to encourage that, while being culturally sensitive, to say that freedom to worship is an essential part of being a human being." Commenting on Twitter after the meeting, he said: "In these relationships, we must be clear that freedom to worship is an essential part of being human." The second area of concern was military intervention. "Secondly, that where the interests of minorities are concerned, foreign interventions can often have very serious long term [impacts], as we've seen with the collapse of the Christian population in some parts of the Middle East," he said. He later tweeted that military intervention could have "dire" consequences for Christian and other minorities and that this could be seen in Iraq over the past two decades where he said there had been a "terrible collapse" in the Christian population. Representing the Catholic Church, Archbishop Kevin McDonald echoed the concerns. He said: "A concern for religious freedom should not be seen in isolation. It needs to inform policy across government, particularly on Aid and the sale of arms to other countries." The meeting also brought together leaders from other faith communities, including Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis and Imam Qari Asim. It was convened in light of a review into Christian persecution launched in January by Mr Hunt. The interim report was released last week and warned that levels of persecution against Christians were close to "genocide". The full report is due out in the summer. L'Arche founder Jean Vanier dies aged 90 The founder of L'Arche, Jean Vanier, died on Tuesday at the Maison Medicale Jeanne Garnier in Paris. He was 90 years old. Mr Vanier founded L'Arche in 1964 out of a desire to improve the level of support available to people with learning disabilities and create a community where they were fully included, living side by side with those without learning disabilities in mutual flourishing. Today over 10,000 people with and without learning disabilities belong to more than 150 L'Arche communities spanning 38 countries around the world. "Jean has left an extraordinary legacy," said L'Arche International Leader Stephan Posner. "His Community of Trosly, the Communities of L'Arche, Faith and Light, many other movements, and countless thousands of people have cherished his words and benefited from his vision." There are 12 L'Arche communities in the UK. John Sargent, national leader of L'Arche UK, said: "Jean's death is a great sadness. His vision was one of radical welcome, inclusion and joy, where marginalised people with learning disabilities are valued and celebrated. "He will be greatly missed by people from all walks of life who have been influenced and changed by his teachings, which remain as relevant today as ever." The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, paid tribute to Mr Vanier, saying he had built communities "that Jesus would have recognised". "Jean Vanier lived the Gospel in such a beautiful way that few who met him could fail to be caught up in it," he said. "I join countless people around the world in deep sorrow at his death, and great gratitude for his life. His generosity of spirit and Christian hospitality embraced the whole world supremely those with learning difficulties. His L'Arche communities were places for the so-called weak to teach the self-perceived strong." Anadarko Petroleum said Wednesday that the multibillion-dollar Mozambique liquefied natural gas project is expected to move forward in mid-June. The question is which company will own the massive Mozambique LNG project in eastern Africa? Chevron or French energy major Total. Houston's Occidental Petroleum is currently winning its bidding war against Chevron to buy The Woodlands-based Anadarko for nearly $40 billion. But, if Houston-based Oxy wins out, it will sell Anadarko's Africa assets to Total for $8.8 billion with the Mozambique LNG project as the primary component of the contingent sale. If Chevron ups its bid by Friday and wins Anadarko, then Chevron would develop the project on its own. Regardless, Anadarko said it plans to authorize the project on June 18 and commence heavy construction. RELATED: Anadarko picks Oxy's bid, jilts Chevron "With commitments for financing in place, off-take secured, and all other issues under negotiation successfully addressed, we are excited to take the next step with the expected announcement of a final investment decision for the Mozambique LNG project on June 18," said Anadarko Chief Executive Al Walker. "Mozambique LNG is among the most significant projects that our company or any other has undertaken, given the scale of the project, size of the resource, and the potential long-term transformational benefits it represents for Mozambique," Walker added. Mozambique President Felipe Nyusi also praised the decision. "We expect June 18 will become a historic day in Mozambique as we announce that one of the most important and transformational projects in our country's history is ready to advance to the next stage," Nyusi said. The Offshore Technology Conference is focusing on integrating marine renewables into its overall program, offering nine technical sessions the most ever on the topic. Paul S. Jones and OTC board member, spoke with the Houston Chronicle about the the marine renwables fields, challenges and opportunities it presents, and ways in which it relates to current offshore technologies. Jones is principal at Lockbridge Energy, a consulting firm. He retired from Chevron in 2017 after a thirty-three-year career in enngineering and management. Edited excerpts of the interview follow: Q. What are marine renewables? A. Basically, marine renewables is a collective term that encompasses energy from a number of different resources all of which are found in the marine environment. There are six major classes of these resources. The first is offshore wind. The second is tidal. The third is offshore currents. Then there are waves, "ocean thermal energy, and a bucket of capabilities we call salinity gradient power. All of these renewable energy sources yield kinetic and potential energy, and these two types of energy can be used to drive turbines, produce electricity, and so on. Q. Why are marine renewables gaining inteest at OTC? A. They are gaining interest because, globally, a significant portion of the worlds energy supply is developed by renewable energies. And, in the future, we are going to require both traditional hydrocarbon-based energies as well as marine renewables from offshore and onshore to meet the worlds energy demands. On HoustonChronicle.com: Renewables presence expands at OTC Significant progress has been made in the last 20 years, particularly in Europe, in making some of these new and novel technologies both economic and viable. Were seeing that experience, which germinated in Europe, moving around the rest of the world, and theres a lot of interest globally and more and more in the U.S. Some of the premier technological challenges in marine renewables have been addressed and are being addressed by the oil and gas industry, as well as certain sectors of the marine renewables industry. Over the last 50 years, offshore capabilities have been developed for hydrocarbon production, and a lot of those technologies migrate nicely to the development of marine renewable energy. Q. Which of the six types of marine renewables are the most promising? A. Thats an interesting question. There are certainly advocates for all of these types. The most promising type is really environment-dependent: If you have significant tides, then tidal energy looks really good. If you have a windy environment, then offshore wind obviously takes precedence. All these types of energies will be utilizable somewhere. If we were to look globally right now, offshore wind is certainly the most popular. That is primarily because the technology required to monetize and develop the offshore wind sector is more mature than in other areas. But quite a few OTC sponsors are very interested in the other technologies as well. Q. Are there many new business opportunities in the marine renewables field? A. I cant answer that from a business opportunity perspective, but there is a lot of excitement in this space, and a lot of traditional engineering and traditional investment is being focused on offshore renewables. In terms of an opportunity portfolio, it looks good. From a technology perspective, some real challenges need to be addressed. Its much harder to build, maintain and utilize renewable infrastructure offshore. Most wind turbines are basically in shallow water where turbines can be placed on a structure that sits on the seabed. In deeper waters 50, 60, 100 meters of water depth floating technologies are required. On the whole, deep water floating capabilities are a technological challenge. That challenge has been addressed in the oil and gas industry and could transfer easily, albeit with some specialization, to the offshore wind industry. Q. How quickly could wind energy capability be integrated into the world's total energy requirements? A. In Europe, its been done. Since probably 2010 onwards, theres been investment and integration of offshore wind farms specifically into general electricity generation in various parts of the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, etc. For the U.S., its a relatively new field. Fuel Fix: Get energy news sent directly to your inbox There is only one offshore wind farm in the US, in Rhode Island, but currently over 30 projects are being planned or developed. Many challenges need to be addressed economic, geopolitical, and environmental considerations, for example. But the U.S. is looking forward, and theres a great opportunity here. Occidental Petroleum likely will receive a downgraded investment rating if it wins the bidding war against the much larger Chevron to acquire Anadarko Petroleum, the debt rating agency Moody's Investors Service said Wednesday. Houston-based Oxy would have to accumulate too much additional debt if it buys The Woodlands oil and gas producer Anadarko for about $38 billion, said Moody's Vice President Andrew Brooks. The unhealthy debt load comes even though Oxy would mitigate the debt somewhat with a $10 billion financing commitment from Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway firm and by selling Anadarko's Africa assets for $8.8 billion to the French energy major Total. "Under the revised offer, we continue to believe that Oxy would likely emerge from the review for downgrade with a weakly positioned investment grade rating," Brooks said. RELATED: Anadarko picks Oxy's bid, jilts Chevron Oxy currently has an A3 upper medium investment grade rating - the equivalent of an A-minus - and would likely downgrade to one of the B-level investment grades, Moody's said, although Oxy could still maintain an investment grade rating, but on the low end of the scale. On Monday, Anadarko said it would break its previous $33 billion deal to be acquired by Chevron in favor of Oxy's sweetened offer that now includes nearly 80 percent cash in the offer. Chevron has until Friday to counteroffer or walk away with a $1 billion breakup fee consolation prize. Moody's said the Anadarko acquisition would boost and diversify Oxy's oil and gas production and pipeline portfolios, but that doing so would still require taking on too much debt, even though Oxy would make debt reduction its top priority moving forward. Anadarko already carries with it $17 billion in debt, and Oxy would have to take out a lot more in loans to close the deal. "We regard the extent of this over-leveraging as problematic," Moody's said, "leaving the company with less flexibility to confront an environment of weak commodity prices, and significantly heightening the urgency of debt reduction." Talk about big iron. One of the most popular booths at the Offshore Technology Conference features a West German tank, brought to the gathering of the oil and gas industry by the Ox Ranch to promote its hunting ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Among the activites there: driving and shooting one of 14 tanks. The tank traveled to OTC on the back of a flat-bed 18-wheeler over the weekend during an overnight trip of more than 300 miles. Its provided the backdrop for more than a few selfies. Sergio Chapa A lifesaver for sales Advanced Designs Corp., an Indiana-based company that sells weather monitoring systems to off-shore operators, has to compete for attention with hundreds of other booths at OTC. So the company has hit upon a sure-fire method to get conference goers to stop: offer a treat. Company president Matthew McGrath was emptying a 41-ounce bag of individually wrapped wintergreen-flavored Lifesavers into a big glass bowl during the first few minutes of the conference Tuesday morning. The bowl is conveniently placed in front of a television monitor that explains the companys weather radar service. People spot the candy and stop to watch the video while they unwrap a piece and eat it, said McGrath, who goes through two big bags a day. On HoustonChronicle.com: Optimism at OTC as offshore industry shows signs of improvement McGrath cant point to an instance when the candy triggered a sale. But sweet treats work, he insists, because they get conference goers to slow down and hear about weather radar services for the off-shore industry. And the more they hear, he figures, the better the chances hell make some sales. \ He goes through tow big bags a day. L.M. Sixel Doubling up Rainstorms made life difficult Tuesday for OTC exhibitors along the outdoor parkway area, but at least one company was covering its bases. The employees at the outdoor booth for the Oklahoma company Mako Products could just go inside and work the indoor NRG Center exhibit of its product supplier, South Koreas BMT Co. and its U.S. subsidiary Superlok. Makos Jim Schmidt was tempted to tough it out though. Its not going to rain on our booth, he joked. Were prayed up. Schmidt, who has attended many OTC weeks with several companies since his first OTC in 1980, said the event is more professional with less debauchery than the bigger party atmosphere in the past, but its still singularly unique. Its like the Grammys on steroids for the oilfield industry, Schmidt said. Theres nothing like this on earth. Everything here is amazing. Jordan Blum Offshore wind on the rise Its getting dramatically cheaper to develop offshore wind energy. Thats making projects more profitable and attracting more investments from big energy companies such as the Norwegian company Equinor and Royak Dutch Shell, experts speaking at the OTC conference said Tuesday. Companies can develop offshore wind projects in the U.S. for as low as 6.5 cents per a kilowatt hour. For comparison, electricity from the tiny five-turbine, 30-MW Block Island wind farm, which became operational in 2016 off the coast of Rhode Island, is priced at 24.4 cents per kilowatt-hour. Fuel Fix: Get energy news sent directly to your inbox You see the costs coming down tremendously, as youve seen for solar and onshore wind, then obviously investors see this is as an opportunity and the technology can actually compete with other energy supplies, said Christer Af Geijerstam, president at Equinor Wind USA. We believe that (cost reduction) will continue and this technology will be very competitive, Equinor ASA two proposed offshore wind projects off the coast of New York and New Jersey with the combined potential to generate enough electricity to power more than 2 million homes. If Equinor secures the necessary certificates and approvals for those projects this year, Geijerstam said those wind farms could be operational by 2025. Meanwhile, Shell has formed a joint partnership with EDF Renewables on an offshore wind project in New Jersey capable of generating enough electricity for nearly 1 million homes. That project could be operational by the mid-2020s once the companies make a final investment decision. Marissa Luck Saudi Aramco is weighing a potential investment in Norwegian oil company Equinor ASAs U.S. shale operations in what could be the energy giants first ever overseas venture for gas exploration, according to people familiar with the matter. The state-run company, known officially as Saudi Arabian Oil Co., is considering investing in Equinors Marcellus shale operations through a joint venture or by buying a stake, the people said, asking not to be identified because the talks are private. Aramco may also invest with other oil companies to gain access to U.S. shale gas, the people said. No final decisions have been made and the deliberations between Aramco and Equinor are at an early stage, they said. Representatives for Aramco and Equinor declined to comment. OFFSHORE: Norwegian companies bring tech, social change to U.S. energy industry Aramco is expanding its search for gas to help reduce the nations reliance on sales of crude. Saudi Arabia also wants to use gas as fuel in the kingdoms power stations and for the production of petrochemicals, a high-priority industry for the government in its strategy to diversify the economy. The country is looking for natural gas supplies in the U.S., Russias Arctic and Australia both to supply global markets and meet demand at home, Saudi Energy Minister Khalid Al-Falih said this year. A partnership with Aramco will give the Norwegian company more firepower to expand in the U.S., the people said. Equinor has been chasing deals for natural gas-rich acreage to add to its large position in the Appalachian region, Al Cook, the companys head of strategy, said in an interview in March. The oil firm is also considering selling all or some of its operations in the Eagle Ford shale in the U.S., people familiar with the matter in March. Still, Equinor, which is 67 percent owned by the Norwegian government, would have to overcome political unease with the kingdoms human rights record. In November, the country said it would halt any new export licenses for sales of defense material to Saudi Arabia after already banning exports of arms and ammunition. Aramco plans to double its total gas production to 23 billion cubic feet daily in the coming decade, Chief Executive Officer Amin Nasser has said. The companys trading unit sold its first liquefied natural gas cargo last month in the latest example of Aramcos effort to expand outside its historical business of pumping and selling crude. --With assistance from Mikael Holter. 2019 Bloomberg L.P. Struggling oilfield service company Weatherford International made an abrupt decision to postpone the release of its first quarter results and has cancelled the corresponding earnings call. Weatherford was scheduled to release its first quarter earnings early Wednesday morning but in a statement released after U.S. stock markets closed late Tuesday afternoon, the company stated that it is postponing its first quarter earnings release until early Friday morning. Service Sector: Weatherford proposes reverse stock split to prevent delisting Weatherford did not give a reason for postponing its earnings report. The decision comes less than two weeks after the company's board of directors released a ballot asking stockholders to approve a reverse stock split plan to prevent the company from being delisted from the New York Stock Exchange. Under the proposed 1-for-20 ratio, the roughly 1 billion outstanding shares of Weatherford stock would be reduced to just over 50 million shares increasing the remaining stock's value. Weatherford's stock has been trading below $1 per share since Nov. 13. New York Stock Exchange officials issued a delisting warning in December and gave Weatherford six months to improve its dismal stock performance. Fuel Fix: Get daily energy news headlines in your inbox Founded in Texas, Weatherford is one of the largest oilfield service companies in the world. The global company had 67,000 employees at the beginning of 2014 but today, it employs around 26,500 people in 80 nations. The company has seven locations in Texas, including four in the Houston area. Weatherford has not made a profit since the third quarter of 2014. The company posted a $2.8 billion loss on $5.7 billion of revenue in 2018. Under a transformation plan released in late 2017, the company has sold off its non-core assets and now focuses on drilling equipment and digital services. The Houston area was deluged with rain Tuesday evening into the night, causing major flooding and power outages in areas such as Kingwood, Sugar Land and Cleveland. Areas in Kingwood saw up to 10 inches of rainfall, while 12 inches of rain was reported in areas in Sugar Land, leaving some roads impassable. Sugar Land spokesman Doug Adolph said the Tuesday night flooding was "worse than what we experienced in Harvey." More than 800 students and 100-plus teachers and administrators were stranded at Southside Elementary in Cleveland Tuesday night as a result of the flooding. Phillips 66 and Chevron Corp. are moving closer to deciding where to expand their chemical subsidiary on the Gulf Coast, pouring about $200 million this year in preliminary project planning and engineering, Phillips 66 Chief Executive Greg Garland said in an annual shareholders meeting Wednesday. Garland said the two owners are still evaluating which Chevron Phillips Chemical location in the region will host the $5.8 billion expansion that is expected to create 3,500 construction jobs. Nearly every Chevron Phillips location is under consideration, but Sweeny and Orange seem to be the front runners in the race. EARLIER: Chevron Phillips names potential spot for new $5.8B petrochemical project Although the Cedar Bayou site in Baytown has the space for growth, Garland said there could be potential permitting limitations on building a second ethane cracker there because of its proximity to other existing crackers in the area, including Chevron Phillips' recently added ethane cracker and another cracker at separate nearby facility owned by Exxon Mobil. And Chevron Phillips' Chemical facilities at Port Arthur doesn't have the space for growth, leaving Orange and Sweeny as the ones with the best location and logistical advantages, Garland said. Chevron and Phillips 66 expect to make a joint decision on where and when to invest by 2020 with a potential startup of a new project by 2023 or 2024, Garland said. Despite a wave of new petrochemical projects on the popping up on the Gulf Coast, Garland said there is still plenty of demand for plastics chemicals. Cheap supplies of ethane in the region to support continued capital investments on the Gulf Coast, he added. RELATED: Phillips 66 profits plunge in first quarter Strong demand has kept Chevron Phillips' new ethane cracker in Cedar Bayou running 15 percent above its original design capacity, Garland said. The cracker recently increased its production capacity to 3.8 billion pounds per a year. In February, Chevron Phillips filed a request for state tax incentives on a potential $5 billion to $6 billion ethylene project on 1,7000 of undeveloped land near its Orange chemical plant. The project would include an ethylene cracker, at least one ethylene derivative units, a rail storage yard, utilities and related infrastructure and administrative buildings, according to state documents. Garland said the company would "certainly be happy if Orange was selected" because of the site has room for growth and is relatively close to an access point for the Mont Belvieu chemicals and natural gas liquids hub. Optimism despite poor first quarter Despite a huge drop in first quarter profits, Garland struck a positive tone at the Phillips 66 shareholders' meeting held at the Marriot Westchase in Houston Wednesday. He boasted about the company's record-setting $5.6 billion earnings in 2018, boosted by strong refining profits and record-setting earnings in the company's pipeline division. Later this year the company expects to complete the Gray Oak Pipeline project which will be capable of carrying 900,000 barrels per a day of crude from the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford to Corpus Christi and Freeport, including Phillips 66' Sweeny refinery. The Sweeny refinery is also undergoing upgrades to process an added 300,000 barrels a day of natural gas liquids by late 2020. Phillips 66 saw its earnings plunge in the first quarter to $204 million in profit - less than half of the $524 million profits it made in the same period last year, according to its earnings results. The refiner blamed poor earnings on largely on major maintenance outages affecting five refineries and relatively higher costs for Canadian crude that cut into its margins. Yet Garland said their signs of improvement in the gasoline crack spread the difference between the price of gasoline and the price of crude oil that's considered an important indicator for refineries' profits and falling gasoline inventories are helping to balance the market again. "So 2019 should be a good year," Garland said. Houston pipeline operator Kinder Morgan is asking a judge to throw out a lawsuit filed against a project to move natural gas from the Permian Basin of West Texas to the Gulf Coast. Citing various technicalities, lawyers representing the pipeline company filed a motion on Tuesday asking a state district judge in Travis County to throw out the lawsuit against Kinder Morgan, a subsidiary overseeing the pipeline project and state regulators. Opponents of the Permian Highway Pipeline filed an April 22 lawsuit over the natural gas project's route. Lawyers for Kinder assert that the Texas Constitution and state law uphold the company's rights. "The lawsuit is a prime example of why eminent domain exists to allow important infrastructure projects that provide significant public benefits," Kinder Morgan said in a statement. Lawsuit: Railroad Commission, Kinder Morgan sued over pipeline route The 423-mile pipeline is designed to move 2 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day from the Permian Basin to the Katy Hub near Houston. That's roughly enough gas to fuel about 10 million U.S. homes per day. Kinder Morgan maintains that the project is in the public interest because it will generate nearly $1 billion of state and county revenues annually and unlock production bottlenecks in the Permian Basin allowing leaseholders to earn more than $2 billion per year in royalties. Members of the Texas Real Estate Advocacy and Defense Coalition, or TREAD, claim that the pipeline route unfairly runs through residential areas of Kyle, about 20 miles south of Austin, near the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park in Stonewall and less than a mile away from Jacob's Well, a popular summertime swimming hole near Wimberley. Fuel Fix: Get daily energy news headlines in your inbox TREAD members contend that no alternative routes were presented to the public or considered and that no independent assessment of the project's costs and benefits was required by state regulators. "Kinder Morgan's motion claims that it is allowed to privately choose land to be taken without any public or government oversight," the coalition stated. "The lawsuit asserts that their interpretation of the Texas constitution is wrong and we look forward to submitting briefs to the Court on the merits of the case." Oil traded near a five-week low as concern over supply losses from Iran to Russia were offset by high American stockpiles and fears that if U.S.-China trade talks fail it could dent global demand. Futures erased earlier gains to fall as much as 0.5 percent in New York after a 1.4 percent plunge on Tuesday. Russian tankers continue to hold Urals crude exported from the countrys Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga, a sign that contamination issues remain unresolved. Meanwhile, U.S. crude stockpiles climbed by 2.81 million barrels last week, though gasoline inventories fell by a similar amount, the American Petroleum Institute was said to report on Tuesday. PREVIOUSLY: Oil futures sink Into trade-war turmoil as Brent slips below $70 The oil market has been benign in its response to the threat of supply losses from Iran following the end of U.S. sanctions waivers on its exports. Prices were down even after the Islamic Republics threat to stop observing restrictions on uranium enrichment if Europe doesnt abide by commitments on oil and banking. Oils rally went into reverse late last month due to speculation that Saudi Arabia and other members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries would fill the gap created by the loss of Iranian barrels. Meanwhile, signals that the global economic outlook is improving had been preventing steeper declines, but thats now been thrown into doubt by the White Houses plan to raise tariffs on Chinese imports. A delegation from Beijing is still set to visit Washington this week for talks. It has been a less than auspicious start to the month for the energy complex, PVM Oil Associates Ltd. analyst Stephen Brennock wrote in a report. The API provided additional bearish fodder after reporting another increase in U.S. crude stocks. West Texas Intermediate crude for June delivery lost 25 cents, or 0.4 percent, to $61.15 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange at 11:41 a.m. in London, having earlier added 1.1%. The contract dropped by 85 cents to $61.40 on Tuesday, the lowest close since March 29. BIDDING WAR: Occidental CEO on verge of outmuscling a rival five times as big Brent for July settlement fell 43 cents, or 0.6 percent, to $69.45 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange. It closed at $69.88 on Tuesday, the lowest since April 4. The global benchmark crude was at a premium of $8.20 to WTI for the same month. Since the discovery of organic chlorides in Russian crude last month, only one of 13 tankers which loaded at the Ust-Luga terminal has discharged its cargo. Some of the ships which loaded potentially tainted oil have been anchored and awaiting discharge for up to 10 days, according to ship tracking data compiled by Bloomberg. Others are floating at sea, having apparently halted part way through their journeys. The API report on U.S. stockpiles comes before Energy Information Administration data due Wednesday. The EIA is expected to report a 1.9 million barrel expansion in nationwide crude inventories in the week through May 3, according to the median estimate in a Bloomberg survey. European and Asian stocks fell for a third day on Wednesday amid speculation the worlds two largest economies will be unable to resolve their differences on trade. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will lead a trade delegation visiting Washington on Thursday and Friday. --With assistance from James Thornhill. 2019 Bloomberg L.P. Good new movies, regardless of what others may tell you, are never in short supply. Enter any theater and you are more than likely to find one worth your time. What you are less apt to find is enchantment: a picture that succeeds, through some alchemy of dazzling trickery and genuine feeling, in recapturing the pleasures of what was once commonly known as movie magic. The glory of Long Days Journey Into Night, a full-body swoon of a movie from the 28-year-old Chinese director Bi Gan, is an ingenious, nearly hour-long sequence that was shot in an unbroken take and then converted to 3-D in post-production. It constitutes the second act and the emotional centerpiece of this moody, mind-bending romantic noir, and it ranks among the great poetic and technical achievements in recent cinema. (While the movie has been shown in standard 2-D in some markets, the 3-D version begins screening this week at AMC Studio 30, and is strongly recommended in that format.) The first half of Long Days Journey Into Night consists of shorter individual shots and sequences, but its progression is still dizzying, slipping freely and without warning among flashbacks, reveries and present-tense reality. ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Director Bi Gan discusses 'Long Day's Journey Into Night' At the beginning, whatever that means, an ex-casino manager named Luo Hongwu (Huang Jue) has returned home after his fathers death to Kaili City, in Chinas subtropical Guizhou province. As Luo returns to his old stomping grounds his every forward step draws him backward, inexorably, into the past. As you have probably guessed, this Long Days Journey Into Night has little to do with Eugene ONeill. A more literal translation of the Chinese title would be Last Evenings on Earth, which also happens to be the title of a collection of short stories by the Chilean writer Roberto Bolano. At once a cultural magpie and an unabashed show-off, Bi has structured his movie as a labyrinth of allusions, drawing on such classics of head-trip cinema as David Lynchs Mulholland Dr., Apichatpong Weerasethakuls Tropical Malady and Andrei Tarkovskys Stalker. He owes perhaps his greatest stylistic debt to Wong Kar-wai, the Hong Kong auteur best known for his magnificent art-house romance In the Mood for Love. Wongs influence here is like a pulse, beating steadily beneath those gorgeous surfaces: Its there in the voiceover that wraps every image in a veil of melancholy; the seductive, near-fetishistic attention to detail; and the undeniable resemblance between Luo and Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Wongs most famous leading man. ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Chinese director Zhang Yimou is back in top form with 'Shadow' Most of all, its there in the directors shared obsession with themes of lost time and remembrance. Memories of Luos past acquaintances keep resurfacing, including a childhood friend, nicknamed Wildcat, who died years ago at the hands of a local gangster (Chen Yongzhong), and a beautiful former lover, Wan Qiwen (Tang Wei, Lust, Caution), who has long since disappeared. Long Days Journey Into Night Rated: Unrated Running time: 138 minutes Language: In Mandarin with English subtitles Where: AMC Studio 30, Houston ***** (out of 5) See More Collapse A sense of disorientation is a wholly appropriate response to a movie in which the past is both irretrievable and unshakable. But even at its most openly baffling, Long Days Journey Into Night never loses its seductive pull. And then, just when it seems to have reached its formal limits, the picture triumphantly slips its own representational bonds. About halfway through, Luo enters a movie theater and dons a pair of three-D glasses, which is your cue to do the same. Immediately you are transported alongside him into a gorgeous nocturnal landscape, gently borne aloft by the steady, graceful movement of the camera. In contrast with, say, Gravity or Birdman, which achieved their long traveling shots largely through digital editing and visual effects, this sequence was choreographed and executed, with no small difficulty, in real time. The effect is one of sustained tension and wonderment, a state that compels both heightened attention and woozy surrender. NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Find fun things to do and see around Houston in our weekly Preview newsletter. Subscribe here. With the rain flooding streets and blocking access, many individuals around Kingwood spent Tuesday night at their business or school. At The Village Learning Center, Executive Director Marcus Denman said Tuesday that five children and five staff members are in good spirits despite experiencing a longer day than usual. Some of us have been here since 7 a.m., he said. But were still here and providing support. Denman said there were hot meals for everyone there, and members from Red Cross would arrive with additional cots and beds. No rescue is needed, he added. Also spending the night at their business were staff members and some children from Kids in Action school on Woodland Hills Drive in Kingwood. All were safe despite the presence of water in the building. Hi everyone! We are all safe! Kids are upstairs and enjoying hot cocoa, nuggets!, per the Facebook post at 7 p.m. The school will close Wednesday. The latest Twitter post from Kingwood Middle School included a picture of some students having light snacks and watching The Iron Giant in the library. Movie and a snack for students at KMS at 10:20 p.m., read the tweet. In an announcement, Humble ISD said all schools will be open Wednesday. Absences on the day will be counted, except for high school students for exam exemptions or against students for perfect attendance awards. Some decided to take action, however. Javier Osornio, his wife Alexandra Leon and his brother Cristofer Osornio used a lifted 2011 Chevrolet Silverado to enter Kingwood and rescue Leons colleague a Pines Montessori School teacher and her granddaughter. On the way there, Javier saw many stalled and stranded cars. We were just having that conversation about Kingwood after they went through Harvey, Javier said. Some homes are still going through recovery, and this weather is not helping the people out there. He will continue to monitor the weather for the next couple of days. Mayor Sylvester Turner, in a tweet, said that there are homes in the Elm Groves subdivision with water inside and that Red Cross is setting up shelter. It is a located at Kingwood First Baptist Church on 3500 Woodland Hills Drive. nguyen.le@chron.com STAY INFORMED: Text CHRON to 77453 to get breaking news alerts by text | Sign up to receive breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. Kingwood resident Eloise Hilaridess journey home from Denver Tuesday night featured one challenge after another. Her plane had landed, but a lightning advisory trapped it on the tarmac for half an hour. The Uber trip afterward was zigzag-shaped, ending with the driver taking refuge in a Shell gas station due to high water and major traffic. Hilarides got to her Hamblen Road dwelling in the end after a motorist assisted her. She spent the night with Maybe, her gingerbread-colored mutt, without power. Water was shut off in the morning after a sinkhole just a few doors down appeared. Its been an adventure, I guess, Hilarides said. Houston Police Department Officer Felipe Flores was on-site to make sure no one would fall into the sinkhole in Kingwood near the 1600 block of Hamblen Road. He said there is a possibility that it will expand, but either way the road is impassable for the time being. He added that it was a long night for all of us here in Houston. CLOSE CALL: Kings Harbor avoids flooding, but owners fear coming storms After 1000s of homes and businesses were flooded in Kingwood during Harvey, many residents fear a repeat. With rainstorms dropping close to 10 inches in Kingwood for an 18-hour period between 7 a.m. Tuesday and 7 p.m. Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service, residents feel their paranoia is warranted. The agency also warned that more rain is on the way this week. Meanwhile, Jay Dabbracio has been up since 5 a.m., moving soaked furniture and tearing down dampened sheetrock with his sister Ashley Ryan at his home in the Sherwood Trails subdivision of Kingwood. He estimated that repair costs will be in the $40,000 vicinity. He noted that when Hurricane Harvey arrived in 2017 he was all dry and was even able to help others. To be honest, we dont have flood insurance, Dabbracio said. I thought wed be good since we didnt flood during Harvey. Apparently not. There is a channel behind Dabbracios house, which he believes overflowed and sent waters into his house through the backyard. Just like him, residents in that area had been salvaging what they could, greeting contractors and conversing with one another over screeching blow dryers and the mold-laced air. 'A marathon, not a sprint': Houston area to remain under flash flood watch through the weekend Not only did Chris Tiners Kingwood home take in 2 feet of water on Tuesday, his Ford Taurus was also submerged. Helping Tiner document the damages for insurance was his friend Von Kelley, who believes that the water destroyed the cars electronics and caused the window to roll down and the trunk to open. The cars interior is currently caked with silt. Smells like Harvey, Kelley said. (The weather is) such a fluke thing youve just got to make sure that youre prepared as much as you can be, which is hard to do. He also noted that Tiner, a local youth pastor, was stuck on Northpark Drive for four-plus hours yesterday. Tiner said his house also didnt flood during Harvey. He will spend the night at Kelleys place in a nearby Kingwood subdivision. Kelley said he welcomes Tiners presence for as long as needed. Both men then greeted the Toppass family Brittani, her husband Joshua and their three children Alyssa, Travis and Kara while the five were returning to their truck with an empty cooler. They had been handing out lunches and chilled water bottles to affected residents, including Tiner. Brittani said other people did the same to her family during Harvey. The five will make more lunch packs when they get home. Kingwood resident Heather Baserto just finished her trip to H-E-B. Every time there is a rain event, she said her family is prepared for the worst. We have a plan to move everything that we can possibly lift upstairs, like we did the last time, she said. Thats our goal our goal is to get everything upstairs and just hunker down upstairs and hopefully ride out the rain, if it possibly floods and starts repairing again if absolutely necessary. Kaila Contreras also contributed to this report. nguyen.le@chron.com It's high time to shake up your week by adding a new bar to your rotation. Whether you're looking to wet your whistle with a cocktail or a beer, we've rounded up 14 watering holes that'll hit the spot. 3 1 of 3 Courtesy by City of Bellaire Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Courtesy by City of Bellaire Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Bellaires city council took time to recognize city employees, law enforcement and older Americans and also adopted two new ordinances at a brief meeting on Monday, May 6. Mayor Andrew Friedberg proclaimed May 5-11 as Public Service Recognition Week to recognize the hard work of the citys workers. Then, he proclaimed May 12-18 as Police Week to appreciate the efforts of law enforcement officers as well as those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Finally, May was named Older Americans Month in Bellaire, as Friedberg recognized how older adults benefit the city. More than 182,000 gallons of water containing raw sewage have overflown from Baytown's sanitary sewer system after storms pummeled the area Tuesday. According to Natasha Barrett, spokesperson for the city of Baytown, the Black Duck Bay area had a majority of the overflow coming from eight manholes. The overflow came as heavy rains pushed through the Houston area, which are expected to return Wednesday and through the end of the week. A literal logjam underneath the FM 1093 bridge at the Brazos River is concerning, Texas Department of Transportation officials said. While no structural damage to the bridge was found after an initial inspection, authorities are keeping a close eye on the condition of the bridge as well and the impacts from the logjam, according to TxDOT spokesperson Danny Perez. As Fort Bend County officials continue to monitor the weather after Tuesdays storms made roadways impassable, threat of flooding to homes along the Brazos River -specifically in Simonton - is a major concern. Precinct 3 Commissioner Meyers said Wednesday morning that while the water on streets in Precinct 3 receded rapidly once the rain stopped, additional rainfall through Monday could make the Brazos River a major hurdle for homeowners in the Simonton area. We anticipate that the heavy rains that are coming in the next few days is going to at least flood our streets again, Meyers said. Were hopeful that the river doesnt get to the flood stage. If it does, obviously were going to have several properties that are going to flood again. Its not there yet, he added. Weve had reports of about eight to 12 inches in about a six hour period. That exceeds the 100 year event. Thats a lot of water. FORT BEND OFFICIAL: Logjam on Brazos River under FM 1093 bridge is a 'growing concern' The Brazos River at Richmond exceeded the minor flood stage at 45 feet Wednesday morning by just over one foot, according to the National Weather Service. It is expected to remain at a minor flood stage through throughout the weekend. Meyers and other county officials, who monitored the storm throughout the night, met with Simonton Mayor Laurie Boudreaux and the citys emergency operations center to coordinate strategies in preparation for the upcoming rainfall. Four high-capacity pumps were placed near the gates of Cowhide Road overnight to help reduce water in flooded areas, Meyers said. Across Precinct 3, residents experienced heavy rains, lightening and major flooding along roadways, said Precinct 3 Constable Wayne Thompson. LOOKING AHEAD: Continual storms, rainfall to create additional flood risks in Houston area The majority of the streets have cleared in our area and there were no high-water rescues that I am aware of, he said. There were a few lighting strikes, a couple of house fires and smelling smoke At least one home in Simonton caught fire after it was hit by lightning, Thompson said. There were no reports of any injuries, deaths or near drownings in Precinct 3, he added. Thompson said he had placed additional patrols in the area and has been in close contact with Simonton officials. In other parts of Fort Bend County, many residents were dealing with stalled vehicles and flooded homes. Sheriff Troy Nehls said his deputies rescued a woman in the Tara neighborhood who was trapped in a home that had about six inches of water in it. We pulled her out of her home and took her to a local hotel, her and her cat Nehls said. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox Nehls said his deputies responded to many people who were trapped in their vehicles with water up to the door handles after storms dumped up to 12 inches of rain in many parts of Fort Bend County. We were able to get some people of their vehicles that were in the middle of some very high water, he said. At one point in the night Nehls said he stepped out of his five-ton truck and into water that was almost up to my belt line. That was the was the highest water I saw last night. Several vehicles along Interstate 59 south that were left behind due to their passengers attempting to escape rising waters, had to be towed, Nehls said, adding that drivers should attempt to make their way back to their cars. If your vehicle is still there, coordinate, take some initiative and have a wrecker company have the vehicle removed, Nehls said. If its not there, it was in a moving lane of traffic, and we moved it. He also advised those individuals to call the sheriffs office phone number to get more information on where their vehicle is. If you believe your car was towed, contact the sheriffs office at 281-341-4665. michelle.iracheta@chron.com As the second round of storms rolled through the Montgomery County area this week, New Caney ISD announced the district will be closed both Thursday and Friday due to expected severe weather, potentially hazardous road conditions and flooding. Scott Powers, the district's executive director of public relations, said in an email that students will not have to make up the missed days and that all testing has been rescheduled for next week. The district is using its websites, social media accounts and notification system to post updates. Both Splendora and New Caney ISDs canceled classes and activities Wednesday due to the 10 inches of rain that flooded southeast Montgomery County in less than 24 hours, leaving roads impassable and children stuck in schools. More storms were on their way Wednesday afternoon, with a tornado watch in effect for the area until 11 p.m. Splendora ISD is to resume classes as normal Thursday, per an announcement from the district. Wednesday, Splendora ISD Superintendent of Schools Jeff Burke said that they they'd continue to monitor the weather and if conditions change, parents will be updated before 6 a.m. "Given the fact that the rain will come around the same time every day, in the evening and overnight, it's really hard to make a call during the day. We will make a call before 6 a.m. (Thursday) at the latest," Burke said Wednesday morning. Previously, in the early-morning hours of Wednesday, Splendora ISD sent out a message explaining that because of the weather event that passed through the area Tuesday evening and chance for conditions to worsen, all schools and offices would be closed. Burke said that though none of the district's 4,000 students were stuck at school overnight and no campuses flooded, he was confident in his team's decision to cancel school Wednesday. "Not knowing what the weather will be like (Wednesday) afternoon, but knowing there would be additional rainfall, I didn't want to put our students and teachers in danger," Burke said. "The last thing we want to do is call off school, but we want to make sure we're giving our parents, community and staff enough lead time." LOOKING AHEAD: Continual storms, rainfall to create additional flood risks in Houston area Burke said the district's transportation department was driving around the area before 4 a.m. Wednesday to assess the community's road access. Though the district's five campuses are mainly on high ground, street flooding was an issue. "This is a decision we make as a team. Obviously we had road issues, and it was a stressful night for many people. I have confidence in our leadership and surrounding law enforcement," Burke said. With clear skies Wednesday morning but a foreboding forecast for the rest of the day and week, Burke said they'll continue to monitor the situation. STAAR testing was scheduled Wednesday at the district's high school, but Burke said that the district has informed the Texas Education Agency of the situation and they have a plan to make up the tests. In New Caney ISD, a district with more than 15,000 students, officials made the call around 11 p.m. Tuesday night to close all 19 campuses Wednesday due to safety concerns. Many campuses had students stranded at school Tuesday evening due to the road conditions. ROAD CLOSURES: 3 east Montgomery County roadways still closed from Tuesday's heavy rains Accommodations have been made for students that need to stay overnight on campus. Campus staff is onsite providing supervision and all campuses have received food, read an update Tuesday night on the districts website. No students remained at any of the districts campuses Wednesday morning. Powers said the district is assessing its facilities Wednesday after canceling all classes and campus-related activities. New Caney High School took some water, but we dont have anything at this point about the extent of the problem or the implications. No other schools have flooding issues, Powers said in an email. Both districts sit along I-59 North near the Grand Parkway. Throughout Tuesday afternoon and evening and into Wednesday, officials warned motorists to avoid the areas as the stronger-than-predicted storms caused flooding and made travel conditions dangerous. More storms are in the forecast for the area during the remainder of the week. jane.stueckemann@chron.com The search for Maleah Davis continues Tuesday, four days after she went missing near Humble. Houston police investigators, volunteer search groups and Davis' family members have all been looking for the 4-year-old, who has undergone several brain surgeries in the last two months and needs medical care. Authorities believe she may have been abducted Friday night near Interstate 69 and Greens Road. Davis' stepfather, Darion Vence, told police that Davis was taken Friday night by a group of three men who attacked them on their way to pick up her mother from George Bush Intercontinental Airport. He was with his toddler son and Davis at the time. He said he pulled over near Humble for what he thought was a flat tire, and the three men drove up behind him in a Chevrolet pickup. READ ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Texas EquuSearch joins HPD search for girl, 4, reported kidnapped One of the men told him that Davis "looks very nice, looks very sweet," Vence told investigators. Vence said the men knocked him unconscious, and he couldn't remember anything from 9 p.m. Friday to 6 p.m. the next day. Police said he came to on Saturday, when the suspects dropped him and his son off near Highway 6 in Sugar Land. Police are still working to find out what Vence was doing in that nearly 24 hour window. Investigators said they did not consider him a suspect as of Monday evening. Meanwhile, Child Protective Services officials said the agency investigated the child and her family because of a head injury that prompted the surgeries, according to previous reports in the Houston Chronicle. The girl and her two siblings were taken into custody in August after a report that the injury was from "possible physical abuse," CPS spokeswoman Tiffani Butler told the Chronicle. The children were placed under a relative's care until a judge ordered in February that they be returned and monitored by CPS caseworkers. Butler said CPS still has custody and caseworkers are visiting the home once a month. Houston police investigators said Sunday that the cause of her head injury was "not something violent." On Monday evening, Davis' mother, Brittany Bowens, pleaded the public to help find her child. She broke down into tears outside Sugar Land City Hall while sharing missing person fliers. 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 | NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. Several people were exposed to Bromine after the chemical spilled inside a northwest Houston Lone Star College campus Wednesday morning, police said. The all clear has since been given. Students in two academic buildings at Lone Star College University Park were evacuated after the reported acid spill, the college tweeted Wednesday morning. Students in buildings 12 and 13 were asked to evacuate because the spill. The Harris County Fire Marshal's Office tweeted that the chemical is Bromine. Lone Star College Police Chief Paul Willingham said seven people, all of whom were not students, were exposed to the chemical. Two people were taken to area hospitals as a precaution, the chief said. Bromine is a dark reddish-brown fuming liquid with a pungent odor, and is toxic by inhalation, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine website. The spill was contained to those two building, and students in other buildings on campus were not ordered to evacuate, Willingham tweeted. 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 | Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message Before he even became a United States citizen, The Woodlands High School student Agustin Perez set his sights on becoming the Texas Citizen Bee champion. Last year, he came close and ranked in second place at the statewide civic education competition. This year, Perez took first place as the state champion, with his newly designated citizenship in hand to boot. Im super proud of myself. Im proud to represent my school, where were very competitive, to be able to win something (like this), Perez said. Perez is originally from Tlaxcala, a state in central Mexico. When he was five years old, his parents decided to move to The Woodlands to escape the impending war and violence there. His parents own a cosmetics company that they were still able to run from the states, so they were also able to obtain their U.S. visas and residency. It was tough, growing up where I didnt know the language or culture, but I got really into academics. I found inspiration in it, and I liked it and wanted to overcome challenges, Perez said. After almost 10 years, the Perez family was granted their citizenship. First, Perez said his parents had to take the citizenship test. He said hed help his mother study for the test using the same materials he was using to study for the Citizen Bee competition. Once his parents passed the citizenship test and took the official oath, Perez and his sister were automatically granted citizenship as well last summer. In the interim, Perez had tried for his first Citizen Bee title, and thats when he made it to second place. This year, as an official citizen, Perez said he worked harder. Theres a 200-page study guide, like a book. It covers historical people in American history, documents, supreme court cases and the constitution. It also covers civic values and concepts that have to do with the constitution like federalism and popular sovereignty, Perez said. All his studying paid off: he got all 65 multiple choice questions correct for the first part of the test and missed only one question in the oral part of the competition. This is the first time that anyone has gotten that good of a score, Perez said. His history teacher, Preston Balluck, said he was completely blown away by Perezs performance. We were both completely blown away by it. He set the bar very high for the future. As humble as he is, hes still competitive at heart, Balluck said. The competition was held the last weekend of April at the Texas Capitol in Austin. Perez is headed off to college this fall and hopes to pursue a career in politics, planning to one day move back to Mexico to spread the values of democracy and equal rights for all. jane.stueckemann@chron.com Day after day, concerning reports regarding global warming and climate change appear in the news, making us believe that the end of civilisation is near. How could we survive this? For an Oxfords Oriental Institute professor, the answer is very simple: interbreed with aliens. According to a recent article published on online news site Energy Live News, Oxfords Oriental Institute professor Young-hae Chi affirms that abductees are allegedly breeding with aliens so as to create climate-change resistant creatures. Could we interbreed with aliens to survive climate change? A scientist from Oxford University suggests we already might be, the article states. Dr Young-hae Chi, Professor at Oxfords Oriental Institute, claims invisible creatures from outer space share the Earth with humans and are breeding with abductees to create climate change-resistant hybrids, it adds. The hypothesis was presented to the Oxford Union a private debate society- as a subject for debate, but unfortunately it was not accepted. However, Dr Chi has continued to talk about it and even has published a book. Additionally, the article explains that, according to Dr Chi, although humans cannot always perceive aliens, they do exist and share environment. The professor says humans cannot perceive the aliens because they dont have the necessary senses but claims the mysterious beings share the same biosphere and as a result, are also affected by climate change, the written asserts. He believes there is a strong correlation between climate change and alien abductions he claims a hybrid species have been created and already walk among humans, it continues. Dr Chi thinks hybrids are a way of storing DNA for the future, as well as being more survivable and more intelligent than normal humans, the report expresses. It is not only scientists and theologians but also non-human species who appear to be greatly concerned about the survivability of the human species, said Dr Chi, quoted by Energy Live News. Draw your own conclusions For more information: https://www.energylivenews.com/2019/04/29/could-interbreed-with-aliens-to-survive-climate-change/ When students in Warwick, Rhode Island, line up in the cafeteria next week, they'll have no shortage of lunch options. Do they want a chicken Parmesan melt? Hummus and fresh vegetables with tortilla crisps? Pizza? Sweet potato tater tots? A burger? Something from the deli bar? Or, in the popular all-day-breakfast category, pancakes with a cheese omelet and a side of bacon? But for some, making a decision won't be necessary. Starting on Monday, any student with unpaid lunch debt will be automatically given a sunflower seed butter and jelly sandwich instead of hot food, the city's school district announced on Sunday. Officials told the Providence Journal that the policy is necessary because the district is owed tens of thousands of dollars in lunch money, on top of contending with a budget deficit in the millions. But critics argue that since children have no control over their parents' finances, they shouldn't be penalized or potentially subjected to public humiliation because of their inability to pay. "I just don't think it's fair to hold the kids responsible," Heather Vale, who has two children attending a middle school in the district, told WLNE. "I think it's embarrassing to the kids because now everyone's going to know why these children are receiving the lunch that they are." While one local restaurant owner offered $4,000 to wipe out students' debts, her donation was rejected by school administrators. "Every idea I had got shut down," Angelica Penta told WJAR on Tuesday, barely concealing her frustration. The controversy is the latest episode to draw attention to what critics have labeled "lunch shaming." In schools nationwide, students have been branded with stamps, given unappealing cheese sandwiches, or even had their lunches thrown away after employees discovered that they were in arrears. In 2015, a Colorado cafeteria worker said that she had been fired for giving free food to hungry elementary school students, one of whom had broken down in tears. Similarly, in 2016, a lunch worker in Pennsylvania quit in protest after she was forced to refuse a hot meal to a student because he couldn't pay for it. "As a Christian, I have an issue with this," Stacy Koltiska, the Pennsylvania cafeteria worker who resigned in disgust, told The Washington Post at the time. "It's sinful and shameful is what it is." In Warwick, a suburb of Providence, close to 40 percent of students in pre-K through 12th grade qualified for free or reduced-price lunches in previous years. While such programs are intended to make sure that no children go hungry, students nationwide often end up incurring debt because their parents make just slightly too much to qualify for subsidized meals, experts told The Washington Post's Heather Long last year. In other cases, families fail to complete the necessary annual paperwork, which requires disclosing a considerable amount of personal information. Under the Trump administration, Long reported, some immigrant families have become fearful that asking for assistance could make it harder for them to achieve permanent residency status in the future. Harried parents may also simply forget to check on their kids' account balances. "Life gets in the way sometimes, and to penalize kids for, you know, one, two dollars to me is crazy," Julie Roberts, a Warwick parent, told WLNE. States including Virginia, California and New Mexico have banned "lunch shaming" in recent years, saying it unfairly stigmatizes students growing up in poverty. In Rhode Island, legislation requiring all students to receive the same hot lunch regardless of their financial circumstances is currently pending, according to the Journal. Other communities in the state have faced similar controversies. In December, officials in Cranston, which neighbors Warwick, were widely criticized for hiring a collection agency to track down families with outstanding school lunch debt. School administrators have said that such extreme measures are necessary due to budget shortfalls. Karen Bachus, the Warwick School Committee's chairwoman, told the Journal that the district is owed more than $40,000 in lunch money. Other officials told WJAR and the Warwick Post that the total was actually closer to $77,000. Due to a $4 million deficit, the district has already cut back on janitorial services and is looking at eliminating a popular mentoring program that now lacks funding, the Journal also reported. Nationwide, concerned parents and community members have taken matters into their own hands, fearing that students will be bullied when their classmates discover that they can't afford lunch or struggle to concentrate in class because they're hungry. In 2016, writer Ashley C. Ford inspired her Twitter followers to wipe out over $100,000 of outstanding lunch debt in Minneapolis schools. Even if a parent had the ability to pay off their balance but had neglected to do so, she told NBC's "Today" that was no reason their child should suffer. Earlier this month, the mother of Philando Castile, who was fatally shot by a police officer in 2016, gave a Minnesota high school $8,000 to settle roughly 100 students' lunch debts in honor of her son. Castile was a cafeteria worker who had been known for paying for students' lunches out of his own pocket if they were short on cash, and a crowdfunding campaign last year raised more than $178,000 to continue that legacy. Penta, the Rhode Island restaurant owner, tried to do the same thing. In March 2018, reports began circulating that a student in the neighboring town of West Warwick had his lunch thrown away by a cafeteria worker because he didn't have enough money in his account. Incensed, Penta started a fundraising drive and placed donation jars by the cash registers at the restaurants that she and her husband co-own in both Warwick and West Warwick. Administrators in West Warwick were happy to accept her donation of $4,000 and apply it to students' accounts, Penta told WPRI. That district, which is separate from Warwick Public Schools, also announced that students would no longer be denied a hot meal based on their ability to pay. In Warwick, things went very differently. On Sunday, Penta wrote on Facebook that she had met with district officials about paying off students' lunch debt on two separate occasions, and tried to offer them an additional $4,000. The second time, she said, she had left in tears after they refused to accept the check. As a result, the recent news that students who couldn't afford lunch would be getting a cold sandwich came as a blow to her. "To me, a sunbutter and jelly sandwich is lunch shaming, because you're basically telling all the other kids that you can't afford lunch and you don't have any lunch money," she told WPRI. In a statement to local media, Warwick officials said that they had to turn down the money because otherwise they would have had to decide which students it should benefit. "Each time these offers were made, Warwick Public Schools stated that the school department was not in the position to single out or identify specific students that should be selected for a reduction in their lunch debt while excluding others," the statement said. Administrators also noted they had suggested that Penta should create a program to decide which students would have their lunch debt erased, and review the applications herself. For now, that's more or less what she's doing. "If you need help reach out to me," she wrote on Facebook on Sunday, encouraging any Warwick parent who couldn't afford school meals to contact her. "There is no need for any child to be denied a hot lunch. We never know a child's or their family's situation, everyone struggles at some point. " In the meantime, Penta's neighbor has set up a GoFundMe page, hoping to wipe out all the debt held by students across the district and overcome administrators' objections. "If we can raise all the money, then they're not choosing kids," Penta told the Warwick Post. A few weeks ago, scientists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) suggested that present and future exist simultaneously. According to an article published on online blog Physics Astronomy, the new theory suggests that time does not pass and that everything is ever-present. The publication mentions that time should be regarded as a dimension of space-time, as relativity theory holds so it does not pass by us in some way, because space-time doesnt. Instead, time is part of the uniform larger fabric of the universe, not something moving around inside it. Dr Bradford Skow, one of the supporters of the theory claims that if we were to look down on the universe, we would actually observe time and events spreading out in all directions. All this suggests that time as we know it is incorrect. In other words, its not linear as we have been thinking all along. In fact, everything around us is ever present, Physics Astronomy indicates. This surprising approach represents a whole reconsideration of time and existence, since, as the article suggests, it means that once an even has occurred, it continues to exist somewhere in space-time. The new controversial theory is backed up by Albert Einsteins theory of relativity which indicates that space and time are in fact part of an intricate four-dimensional structure where everything that has occurred has its own coordinates in space-time, the report states. Dr. Skow agrees that while things change and we see time as if it were passing, we are in a scattered conditions and that different parts of time may be dotted around the infinite universe, it continues. Regarding this, many internet users reacted to the content of the article. One user called Leon wondered: so, Deja Vu would be some sort a time travel? On the other hand, Sylvia expressed: This is a philosophical theory. Interesting, but does science have anything to say about it?. Draw your own conclusions For more information: https://physics-astronomyblog.blogspot.com/2019/01/a-new-theory-on-time-indicates-present.html?fbclid=IwAR0lk7v0pBGLBRkkJlFvuywYZy-che6ohpgmS6k82anNZEcwgHjawF_Vir4&m=1 Lori Van Buren/Times Union SARATOGA SPRINGS One of Gov. Andrew Cuomos most trusted aides has been appointed as the president of Empire State College, which is part of the State University of New York system. Jim Malatras has previously served as operations director for Gov. Andrew Cuomo, where he oversaw day-to-day workings of state government, and then spent a year at the State University of New Yorks headquarters where he was vice chancellor for policy and chief of staff. He was also executive director of Cuomos New NY Education Reform Commission from 2012-2014. Curious just how far your dollar goes in Houston? We've rounded up the latest rental listings via rental site Zumper to get a sense of what to expect when it comes to hunting down an apartment in Houston with a budget of $2,100/month. Read on for the listings. (Note: prices and availability are subject to change.) Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. 4727 W. Alabama St. (Afton Oaks) Listed at $2,100/month, this 820-square-foot studio apartment is located at 4727 W. Alabama St. The furnished unit has air conditioning and a ceiling fan. The building features outdoor space. Good news for animal lovers: Both dogs and cats are welcome here. Look out for a broker's fee equal to one month's rent. According to Walk Score, the area around this address requires a car for most errands, is bikeable and offers many nearby public transportation options. (See the complete listing here.) 504 Bering Drive (Greater Uptown) Next, there's this one-bedroom, one-bathroom situated at 504 Bering Drive. It's also listed for $2,100/month for its 701 square feet of space. The building has garage parking. In the apartment, anticipate a dishwasher and in-unit laundry. Pet owners, take heed: Cats and dogs are permitted. Future tenants needn't worry about a leasing fee. According to Walk Score's assessment, the area around this address isn't very walkable, has minimal bike infrastructure and has some transit options. (Take a gander at the complete listing here.) White Oak Drive and Usener Street (The Heights) Here's a 940-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment at White Oak Drive and Usener Street that's going for $2,086/month. In the unit, you'll get hardwood floors, high ceilings and a walk-in closet. When it comes to building amenities, expect garage parking and a fitness center. Luckily for pet owners, both dogs and cats are allowed. There's no leasing fee required for this rental. Walk Score indicates that the surrounding area is somewhat walkable, is very bikeable and has a few nearby public transportation options. (See the full listing here.) San Felipe Street and Bancroft Lane (River Oaks) Next, check out this 784-square-foot one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment that's located at San Felipe Street and Bancroft Lane. It's listed for $2,084/month. In the unit, you'll get a dishwasher, in-unit laundry and a balcony. The building has garage parking and a roof deck. Dogs and cats are allowed. The rental doesn't require a leasing fee. Per Walk Score ratings, the surrounding area is somewhat walkable, is bikeable and has good transit options. (Check out the complete listing here.) 1111 Rusk St. (Downtown) Located at 1111 Rusk St., here's an 875-square-foot one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bathroom that's listed for $2,080/month. Building amenities include storage, a fitness center and a swimming pool. Pet lovers are in luck: Cats and dogs are welcome. Per Walk Score ratings, the surrounding area is a "walker's paradise," is convenient for biking and boasts excellent transit options. (See the complete listing here.) This story was created automatically using local real estate data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback. WASHINGTON - Republicans on Tuesday rallied behind President Donald Trump's effort to quash lingering questions raised by special counsel Robert Mueller III's report on Russian interference in the 2016 election. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., declared "case closed," insisting that Democrats should accept Mueller's findings and end their investigations. Almost simultaneously Tuesday morning, the White House invoked executive privilege to block former counsel Donald McGahn from complying with a congressional subpoena for documents. McConnell's comments represent a new front in the GOP resistance campaign, bolstering a weeks-long effort by the Trump administration to stonewall multiple oversight demands from House Democrats ahead of the 2020 election. Attorney General William Barr released a redacted, 448-page version of the Mueller report April 18, and Republicans say it is time to move on. "For two years, the Democratic Party held out hope that the legal system would undo their loss in 2016. They refused to make peace with the American people's choice. But the American people elected this president," McConnell said in a speech on the Senate floor, echoing Trump's blasts at critics who he says are questioning his legitimacy. The political broadside stood in stark contrast to a legal assessment from more than 700 former prosecutors from Republican and Democratic administrations, who signed a letter asserting that Trump would have been charged with obstruction of justice based on Mueller's findings were he not president. The signers included some left-leaning lawyers who have become household names for their frequent TV appearances, but also several career prosecutors and high-profile conservatives who thought Barr had so mischaracterized Mueller's report that they needed to set the record straight. Paul Rosenzweig, who served as senior counsel to independent counsel Kenneth Starr, said he signed the letter to present a counterpoint to what he called Barr's "erroneous" assertion that the evidence was insufficient to accuse Trump of obstructing justice. He also had a personal reason: When Starr investigated President Bill Clinton in the late 1990s, Clinton's defenders raised similar arguments - and successfully avoided his removal from office. "I lost that fight, but I will stand to the end of my days that presidents should not lie under oath and should not suborn perjury from others - period, full stop," said Rosenzweig, a member of the conservative Federalist Society. "I realize that's a low bar, but apparently it's not low enough for the American public." The letter, first publicized Monday, had gained more than 730 signatures by Tuesday evening. Inside the Capitol, Republicans stood with Trump, as they have repeatedly since the start of his presidency. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., who frequently talks about the Constitution, said he was not concerned about the precedent the White House was setting in ignoring congressional subpoenas. He said he was more worried about the Democratic effort to obtain Trump's tax returns, likening it to a Pandora's box that would create a "system where each party goes after the donors and the political parties and the candidates." "The biggest problem right now is the idea that we can destroy the whole concept of your taxes being private," he said. "It's an awful precedent. I think the Democrats ought to think twice before they open this door." GOP Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Cory Gardner of Colorado, both seeking reelection next year in states Trump lost in 2016, declined to challenge McConnell's view, with Gardner using Trump's oft-repeated assessment. "The report talks about no collusion, no cooperation, so what are you talking about?" Gardner said, referring to Democrats' accusations of malfeasance. "Look, we have work to do to make sure Russia doesn't continue to try to influence the elections. I think that's a major concern that we have - I think that's what I want to continue to focus on." Collins said Mueller's testimony "would be helpful" to "get clarifications on some of the issues." But key GOP lawmakers, including Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr of North Carolina, are not currently seeking his testimony. "I take his report as an encapsulation of the very narrow area he was looking at: potential of criminal acts and his conclusions. I take for granted Bob Mueller put in his report exactly what he found and exactly what he wanted the American people to read," Burr said Tuesday. On the other side of the Capitol, House Republicans who doggedly investigated President Barack Obama's IRS and his administration's handling of the deadly 2012 terrorist attacks on U.S. facilities in Benghazi, Libya, shrugged - and turned their fire on Democrats. "Frankly, Democrats are choosing conflict when compromise is available to them," said Rep. Mark Meadows, R-N.C., a member of the House Oversight Committee who is close to Trump. "The way the Democrats are issuing subpoenas . . . is fundamentally different and more aggressive than it was when a Republican majority was in the House and Obama was in the White House." The GOP response came as the White House invoked executive privilege to bar McGahn from giving the House Judiciary Committee documents related to Mueller's probe. The White House argued that McGahn - who was a central witness to Mueller's investigation of whether Trump obstructed justice - did not have the authority to share the material. Democrats countered that the White House waived privilege the moment it allowed McGahn to cooperate with Mueller's investigation - and again when Mueller made McGahn's testimony public in his final report. The Judiciary Committee threatened Tuesday night to hold McGahn in contempt of Congress along with Barr, who is expected to be held in contempt Wednesday morning for refusing to hand over the unredacted Mueller report. "I fully expect that the committee will hold Mr. McGahn in contempt if he fails to appear before the committee, unless the White House secures a court order directing otherwise," said panel Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y. Democrats on Tuesday assailed McConnell and Republicans for seeking to move past Mueller's findings. The House Judiciary Committee is trying to secure Mueller's public testimony as soon as this month, but Trump is openly opposing further testimony while touting Mueller's report as vindication. It is unclear when, or whether, the dispute might be settled. Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., called McConnell's speech "an astounding bit of whitewashing - not unexpected but entirely unconvincing." "It's sort of like Richard Nixon saying, 'Let's move on' at the height of the investigation of his wrongdoing," Schumer said. "Of course he wants to move on. He wants to cover up. He wants to silence." That was only one of multiple invocations of former president Richard M. Nixon, who resigned in 1974 shortly before an imminent House impeachment vote. With Trump and his administration refusing to comply with congressional requests, Democrats weighed various options, from launching an impeachment probe to holding officials in contempt of Congress to a growing list of legal challenges. But with clear reservations among the party leadership about impeachment proceedings, Democrats have struggled to chip away at the Republican wall of resistance. Increasingly, they are realizing that they must look to the courts to save their oversight authority, a process that could take years as they challenge each attempt by the Trump administration to bar Congress from requesting witnesses and documents. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., speaking Tuesday at a New York event hosted by Cornell University, captured her party's dilemma. Trump, she said, "is goading us to impeach him." "Because he knows it would be very divisive in the country, but he really doesn't care - he just wants to solidify his base," she said. "We can't impeach him for political reasons, and we can't not impeach him for political reasons. We have to see where the facts take us." On a day when a Democratic presidential candidate, Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, called for impeachment on the Senate floor, Schumer also stopped short: "We should have hearings. We should thoroughly investigate the Mueller report. We ought to seek every aspect of the Mueller report. And then we can make a decision." But McConnell made it clear that even if House Democrats impeached Trump, there would be no GOP votes in the Senate to convict and oust the president. The Republican leader, in the final months before the 2016 election, repeatedly undermined efforts by the Obama administration to warn the public about Russian interference and send a bipartisan message to Moscow. When then-CIA Director John Brennan met privately with McConnell in late summer 2016 to brief him on alarming new intelligence about Russia's plans to derail the race, McConnell cast doubt on the underlying intelligence and threatened to accuse the White House of political meddling if it brought the issue to the public's attention. "You're trying to screw the Republican candidate," McConnell said, according to officials familiar with the exchange. The response startled Brennan and others, who thought the intelligence - including details about Russia's hack of the Democratic National Committee and Russian President Vladimir Putin's involvement in the operation - was so overwhelming that Republicans would rally around plans to confront Moscow. McConnell is seeking reelection next year, and his campaign Tuesday sent out a fundraising solicitation boasting that he had "just told the Democrats to end their Russia conspiracy spectacle and accept there was no collusion. CASE CLOSED." "It's time to move on," McConnell told reporters. "There was no collusion." - - - The Washington Posts' Josh Dawsey, Karoun Demirjian, Carol D. Leonnig and Greg Miller contributed to this report. ALBANY The University at Albany is creating a special commission to look at the "future of Greek life" and officials say the continued existence of fraternities and sororities is not guaranteed going forward. The news came in a notice Wednesday to faculty and staff from Michael Christakis, vice president for student affairs. It references a recent death at the University at Buffalo from a suspected hazing incident, as well as the "broader national conversation on the issue." "While many of our Greek-letter social organizations contribute positively to campus life, we also continue to receive numerous reports regarding destructive behaviors by fraternity and sorority members that sadly overshadow the good works of their fellow students," the notice states. "Given the broader national conversation on this issue and the recent tragic death of a University at Buffalo student, I feel compelled to take stronger action. Effective today, I am establishing a Commission on the Future of Greek Life at UAlbany." The notice goes on to say: "The Commission will solicit testimony from Greek organizations, other stakeholders and experts, review documents, engage national organizations and research best practices, concluding with a final report to me with recommendations no later than December 1, 2019. I will then present this report to President Rodriguez and the University's senior leadership. "For now, I am reserving a decision on whether to allow Greek organizations to conduct new-member intake in the fall. But I want to be clear about what is at stake. Just as no conclusion has been predetermined, none is off the table and the future of Greek life at UAlbany is not guaranteed." There are 37 Greek houses serving UAlbany students. But only 24 are in good standing. Most of the others are on suspension for hazing investigations or for violating their home office policies or campus policies. Greek Suspensions by rkarlin on Scribd It wasn't immediately clear if other State University of New York campuses were instituting similar commissions to study Greek housing. But UAlbany's move comes after a tragedy at Buffalo and increased scrutiny of Greek life nationwide. More for you RPI going dry, almost In April, a University at Buffalo freshman, Sebastian Serafin-Bazan, of Westchester County, died after suffering a cardiac arrest when ordered to perform exercises in a house associated with the Sigma Pi fraternity, said police interviewed by the Buffalo News. The University at Buffalo at the time indefinitely suspended all fraternity and sorority activities. Then in early May, Swarthmore College's two fraternities disbanded after students at the Pennsylvania school stormed and occupied one of the Greek houses, Phi Psi. That came amid complaints that administrators ignored complaints of sexual assault there. And at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, President Shirley Jackson, citing complaints of alcohol abuse and sexual assaults, launched a crackdown on Greek houses. Currently, the recruiting period for Greek houses has been pushed back into second semester. Fraternity and sorority members say that makes it harder to recruit members. They've also contended that alcohol and abuse are not problems that are limited to Greek houses. At UAlbany, Greek housing is off campus. There are 37 Greek-lettered social organizations, with 19 fraternities and 18 sororities. Currently, 24 of them are considered in good standing with most of the others under investigation for possible hazing or having lost official university recognition for violating school or their home organizations' rules. At UAlbany, the number of students participating in Greek life is also small. As of this spring, there were 439 Greek members among the school's 13,600 undergraduates and 18,000 total student body. rkarlin@timesunion.com 518-454-5758 @RickKarlinTU CARACAS, Venezuela - After the failure of last week's plot to oust President Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's opposition and its foreign backers are debating a new approach: extending an offer to senior government and military officials to join a post-Maduro transitional government while heightening the threat of U.S.-led intervention. As the political crisis here deepened Tuesday, diplomatic activity was rapidly accelerating, particularly among nations concerned over the growing U.S. drumbeat on military options. The European Union called on the Vatican and the United Nations to join talks to defuse tensions. Canada and other nations were seeking to enlist Cuba - one of Maduro's closest allies - in finding a peaceful solution. The United States, in an attempt to lure more defectors, lifted sanctions Tuesday on Maduro's spy chief, who last week broke with the socialist leader and fled the country. In Caracas, meanwhile, Maduro's government began to fire back. A week after opposition leader Juan Guaido's failed attempt to incite a military uprising - senior loyalists were said to be poised to move against Maduro - the pro-government Supreme Court charged six opposition lawmakers with treason, conspiracy and rebellion, and they were stripped of their parliamentary immunity from prosecution. Guaido was not among them, suggesting that Maduro is still reluctant to move against him. Guaido declared himself interim president in January after Maduro claimed victory in elections widely seen as marred by fraud, and the National Assembly leader has been recognized as Venezuela's rightful leader by the United States and more than 50 other countries. Venezuela's Latin American neighbors reiterated their opposition to U.S. military intervention in the country, an option diplomats say could undermine the regional coalition that is working to force Maduro out. "We believe that the international community must exert pressure for Maduro's departure as soon as possible," Colombian Vice President Marta Lucia Ramirez said in Washington. "Time is on their side," she said, and if Maduro lasts "a few more months, it may be forever." But for Colombia, she added, "the military scenario is a nonscenario." Nevertheless, the still-reeling opposition was seeking to regain momentum using the new strategy of carrot - the offer to senior Maduro loyalists - and stick. The stick: On Tuesday, the opposition-controlled National Assembly, stripped of its powers by the socialist government in 2017 but broadly recognized internationally as the nation's only democratic institution, opened debate on rejoining the 1947 Rio Treaty, the Cold War-era pact that the Trump administration is considering as a legal basis for military intervention. Venezuela's socialist government in 2013 left the treaty, a NATO-like agreement anchored by the United States that allows for mutual defense. Since Washington now recognizes Guaido as Venezuela's president, an official request from the National Assembly to defend against "a usurper" - as Guaido has dubbed Maduro - could trigger the pact. Lawmakers took a first step on Tuesday, approving a measure to send reinstatement to a legislative committee for consideration. Guaido told The Washington Post on Saturday that if the United States proposed intervention, he would take it to the assembly for a vote. Francisco Sucre, head of the assembly's foreign affairs committee, said Tuesday that rejoining the pact "would give us an additional and important tool to increase pressure." A senior Latin American diplomat noted that the Rio Treaty outlines an array of collective actions and "does not necessarily mean military intervention." Guaido's saying he would bring military action before the National Assembly for consideration means "he probably doesn't want to pull the rug out from the United States and leave them hanging there," said the diplomat, who spoke on the condition of anonymity about the sensitive issue. The opposition bid to unseat Maduro last week fell apart after conspirators within the government who Guaido tried to lure apparently backed out. People familiar with the plot say the opposition had told senior officials, civilian and military, that they could keep their jobs in a transitional government if they forced Maduro out. Now the opposition and foreign governments are considering whether to make those guarantees open and "official." The opposition has offered a pledge of amnesty to military personnel who turn against Maduro, but many now think amnesty alone will not be enough to secure his ouster. One option floated last week by the Lima Group, the bloc of regional powers including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile and Colombia that has been pressuring Maduro to step down, is uniting behind those guarantees to give them international heft. The Lima Group is liaising with the Contact Group, including Britain, France, Germany and the European Union, which backs Guaido but has taken a softer line against Maduro. Maduro loyalists "will need some kind of incentive to move from supporting the regime," said a Canadian official familiar with the talks, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. "There are some people we are willing to do that with, and some we would absolutely be unwilling to do that with." At the same time, diplomatic and other efforts were escalating. Vice President Mike Pence, in a speech Tuesday to the Americas Society, announced that the United States was lifting all sanctions against Gen. Manuel Cristopher Figuera, the former military intelligence chief who broke last week with Maduro. "We hope that the action that our nation is taking today will encourage others," Pence said. Federica Mogherini, the European Union's foreign affairs chief, said the Contact Group would meet with the Lima organization. She said the group would also send a "high-level mission at the political level" to Caracas to discuss options for a political solution with "all parties." The Contact Group called on the United Nations to intensify and coordinate humanitarian aid, and it said it was sending its own humanitarian mission to the Venezuelan capital. "We've been very clear from the beginning that we believe there should be no military attempts, from within or outside the country, to solve the crisis through military means or the use of force in any form," Mogherini said. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel about Venezuela last week in a conversation that Canadian officials portrayed as more positive than they had expected. Other diplomats made clear that Canada's outreach to Cuba was not unilateral, but part of a Lima Group decision to make contact with all parties. Venezuela provides free and subsidized oil to Cuba in exchange for the presence of 20,000 Cubans. Havana says they are doctors and teachers, while Washington and the Venezuelan opposition say they are military and intelligence agents who have kept Maduro in power. President Donald Trump threatened last week to impose a "full and complete embargo" on Cuba in retribution for its aid to Maduro. Some in the Venezuelan opposition are deeply opposed to bringing Cuba to the table. But others argue that if Havana were willing - a big if, they concede - it could help broker a deal that allows select socialist officials and loyalists to remain in office. Havana could also build bridges with the Chavistas, socialist followers of Hugo Chavez, who anointed Maduro his successor before his death in 2013. "Cuba's inclusion is part of making our offer of guarantees credible to Maduro dissidents, as well as to dissident Chavistas who don't support Maduro," said an opposition official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive issue. In his interview with The Post on Saturday, Guaido ruled out direct talks with Maduro, but he said, "We will talk to any civilian or military official willing to take steps to save Venezuela." Luisa Ortega Diaz, a former chief prosecutor who turned against Maduro in 2017, told The Post it was essential for Chavistas such as she to be included the talks. "Up to now, the approaches to the armed forces and the Supreme Court have not been successful, because the interlocutors have been seen as their enemies," she said. "For any exit, I think the Venezuelans that were touched by Chavez, both at the political level but also in the streets and slums, have to be included. They have to be part of it." Granting Maduro loyalists substantial guarantees remains highly controversial among some in the opposition, as well as among a public that blames them for stoking one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Hunger and disease are spreading, and the power and water grids have collapsed, subjecting the nation to frequent blackouts and driving some to boil sewer water for drinking. Maduro is widely seen as the face of a ruling group of senior socialist officials - some of whom have been accused by the United States of drug trafficking and racketeering. One of the biggest questions facing opposition leaders is whom they can cut deals with and whom they cannot. A minority within the opposition is arguing against allowing significant senior leaders to remain in a transitional government. Some insist that the failed uprising last week shows that bargaining with Maduro's backers will not work - that the only way to secure the fall of the government is through U.S.-backed military action. "You cannot (keep) criminals who have committed humanitarian crimes, you cannot have drug trafficking kingpins, or members of judicial tribes, you cannot have individuals that are part of the mafia in gold trafficking, oil trafficking and gas trafficking, or food mafias," said Maria Corina Machado, an opposition conservative. "Thinking that any of these individuals would be willing to bring justice to Venezuela, simply won't happen." For the first time ever, cyber incidents including data breaches rank as the most serious business risk globally, according to the Allianz Risk Barometer 2020. Just seven years ago, the same threat held a distant 15th position in the top menaces list for companies around the world. Although not all the firms from ASEAN countries included in the report (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore) consider cyber incidents as their top business risk priority, the region nonetheless mirrors a global trend that has seen a growing awareness of cyber threats in recent years. Incidents are becoming more damaging, increasingly targeting large companies with sophisticated attacks and hefty extortion demands. Five years ago, a typical ransomware demand would have been in the tens of thousands of dollars. Now they can be in the millions, according to Marek Stanislawski, deputy global head of cyber at Allianz Global Corporate and Specialty (AGCS). The average organisational cost of a data breach in ASEAN is S$3.6 million (US$2.62 million) and the average number of records per breach is 22,500. Although these figures perform better than the global average (US$3.92 million and 25,575 number of records), they are still reason for concern among CIOs and CISOs in the region, as the Allianz Risk Barometer demonstrates. Even more so since 96 percent of Singaporean businesses reported suffering a data breach between September 2018 and September 2019. With the aim of encouraging (rather than scaring!) CIOs to step up their data security, below we have compiled a list of the most serious data breach incidents in the ASEAN region during the past years. We have also included expert advice on what to do to prevent them. Singapore, December 2019: government vendors under attack 2019 ended with sombre news for Singapores cybersecurity. Personal data pertaining to 2,400 Ministry of Defence (Mindef) and Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) personnel was put at risk and could have been leaked. ST Logistics, a third-party vendor employed by the government organisations which provides logistic and equipping services, said that the potential breach was a result of a recent series of email phishing activities involving malicious malware sent to its employees email accounts. The system affected held full names and NRIC numbers and a combination of contact numbers, email addresses or residential addresses of Mindef and SAF members of staff. In a different and unrelated attack, the data of 120,000 individuals, including 98,000 SAF servicepeople, was found to have been infected by ransomware in early December. On this occasion, the server affected belonged to another vendor that provides healthcare training to SAF. Data stored in the affected server included personal information of students and applicants, such as full names, NRIC numbers, dates of birth, home addresses and e-mail addresses. The investigation of the incident concluded that the breach was a random and opportunistic attack on the server and there was no evidence that the data was copied or exported. Thailand and Vietnam, March 2019: Toyota suffers a chain of data breaches In March 2019, Japans Toyota Motor Corporation revealed that unauthorised access had been detected on servers at its subsidiaries in Thailand and Vietnam. On its Thai website, Toyota issued a notice stating that the company was aware of a possibility that some of Toyotas entities in Thailand were targeted by a cyberattack and that some of its customer data may have been potentially accessed. While we have no evidence of customer information loss at this moment, details are currently under investigation, and we intend to share further specifics, if any, as soon as details are available. A similar notice was published on its Vietnamese website and to date there are no further details as who was the attacker, which personal data might have been breached and how many customers might have been affected. Toyota Vietnam and Toyota Thailand havent replied to CIO ASEANs request for information. Philippines, January 2019: Cebuanas marketing server breached and the mysterious case of the DFA More than 900,000 clients of Philippine-based pawnshop Cebuana Lhuillier (popularly known as Cebuana) were affected by a data breach at the beginning of 2019. According to the pawnshop and remittance company, the figure represents only 3 percent of its total clientele. On the official statement released by Cebuana it was revealed that customers compromised information included date of birth, addresses and source of income. It also said that transaction details were not compromised and that the companys main servers remained safe and protected. The breach involved an email server used for marketing and although attempts to infiltrate one of its servers were detected on January 15, unauthorised downloads went back to August 2018. 2019 didnt start well for the Philippines, as on top of the Cebuana case, concerns over the security of Filipinos passport data were raised after Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin claimed that an outsourced company took all the [citizens passport applications] data when its contract terminated and was not renewed. However, the Department of Foreign Affairs denied afterwards that a data breach had occurred and said that it had full control of passport data belonging to Philippines citizens. Singapore, January 2019: second health data breach in six months Singapores Ministry of Health revealed last January that confidential information belonging to 14,200 people diagnosed with HIV was stolen and leaked online. The compromised personal data included names, contact details (phone number and address), HIV test results and other medical information of some 5,400 Singaporeans and 8,800 foreigners dating up to January 2013. The name, identification number, phone number and address of 2,400 individuals identified through contact tracing up to May 2007 were also included. The person behind the breach was Mikhy Farrera Brochez, a 33-year-old US citizen who lived in Singapore between 2008 and 2016. Farrera Brochez was found guilty on several counts, including transmitting threats for extortion and illegally transferring the identification of another person, by a US court and given a sentence of two years in jail in September Farrera Brochez used to be the partner of Ler Teck Siang, the former head of Singapores National Public Health Unit, who was convicted for helping him falsify his medical records to disguise the Americans HIV-positive status to enter the country. Until 2015, foreigners with HIV were not allowed to visit the island state, even as tourists. Today, any visitor who wants to stay in the country for more than 90 days, including for work, is subject to mandatory medical screening to guarantee that they are not HIV positive. Singapore, July 2018: the city-state suffers its largest data breach In summer 2018 Singapore was subject to the largest data breach in its history with 1.5 million patients to SingHealths specialist outpatient clinics affected by it, including Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and several ministers. Personal information stolen included names, national registration identity card numbers, addresses, gender and dates of birth. 160,000 patients had details related to outpatient dispensed medicines as well. During the committee of inquiry (COI) set to investigate into the events and contributing factors leading to the cyber-attack it was established that it took six days since the attack began to be discovered and halted because the integrated health information systems (IHiS) staff initially thought that no data had been stolen. The COI also concluded that IT gaps and staff missteps contributed to incident. Among the top priority recommendations proposed by Solicitor-General Kwek Mean Luck to Singapores healthcare institutions to work on were raising awareness of cybersecurity and tighten control of privileged administrator accounts. Philippines, May 2018: Wendys and Jollibee asked to take preventive measures against data breaches The National Privacy Commission of Philippines (NPC) gave popular fast-food chain Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) 10 days in May 2018 to come up with a plan to rehabilitate the vulnerabilities on its website, which could expose the data of millions of customers in the case of a breach. In addition to this, the NPC also ordered Jollibee to employ privacy by design in re-engineering JFC Groups data infrastructure. The NPC emitted these cautionary warnings after Wendys, another US fast-food chain with operations in the Philippines, was subject to a data breach earlier in the year. Over 80,000 records, including users personal data, were exposed following an infiltration by hackers of Wendys Philippines website. The NPC reported that around 82,150 records of customers and job applicants including names, addresses, passwords, payment method and transaction details were compromised in the leak. In relation to the case, the NPC issued an order addressed to Wendys in Philippines to inform users affected by the data breach. The document gave a 72-hour extension for the fast-food chain company to comply. On an analysis of the information exfiltrated, it can be ascertained that the exposure of certain sensitive personal or financial information within the database puts the affected data subjects in harms way, the NPCs order states. Thailand, March 2018: True Corps data gaffe In March 2018 security researcher Niall Merrigan revealed that the identity documents of around 45,000 customers of True Corp, Thailands second-biggest mobile network and the flagship company of billionaire Dhanin Chearavanonts Charoen Pokphand Group, had been exposed. Merrigan discovered the personal details belonging to customers of True Corps e-commerce subsidiary iTrueMart (now WeMall) stored in a public-facing Amazon S3 bucket in March. The 32GB data cache included 45,736 files, consisting mainly of JPG and PDF scans of identity documents including scanned ID cards, driving licences and possibly passports. Merrigan said that True Corp was wrongly assuming that the incident was a hack, but since there was no security on the data bucket, anybody could have found and downloaded the files. Malaysia, October 2017: Fiasco at the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commissions In what is Malaysias darkest data breach episode to date, more than 46 million mobile subscribers data was stolen and leaked on to the dark web. Considering that the state has a population of 32 million, it is believed that the whole country was affected, including foreigners using pre-paid mobile phones. The leaked information includes mobile numbers, unique phone serial numbers and home addresses. Personal information from multiple Malaysian public sector and commercial websites was also stolen, making Malaysians vulnerable to social engineering attacks and even phone cloning. Although the Malaysian technology news website Lowyat.net claimed that it reported the breach to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) after receiving a tip-off, the watchdog asked Lowyat.net to take the news article down. The tech website was informed that someone was trying to sell huge databases of personal details from at least 12 Malaysian mobile operators for an undisclosed amount of Bitcoin on its forums. A vast amount of personal data was also stolen from Jobstreet.com and six different official Malaysian organisations, including the Malaysian Housing Loan Applications and the Academy of Medicine Malaysia. Lowyat.net founder Vijandren Ramadass told The Star that all information it had received on the matter was handed over to the MCMC. The MCMC only accepted the data breach a day later in a press statement released on Facebook, later confirming that 46.2 million mobile subscribers were affected by the data breach. Singapore, September 2017: Reputation debacle for AXA Insurance and Uber In September 2017, 5,400 AXA Insurance Singapore customers were affected by a data breach in the companys online health portal. Information stolen included email addresses, mobile numbers and date of birth. However, AXA was quick to reassure that no other personal data, including name, postal addresses, financial details, medical records or claims history, had been exposed. Ironically, in 2014 the insurance corporation had introduced an online risk insurance service in the city-state to protect customers and businesses against cyberattacks. And in December, just a couple of months after AXAs episode, Uber disclosed that personal data belonging to 380,000 of its customers in Singapore had been subject to a leak the previous year. The popular but controversial riding company only released the news after disclosing that the details of 57 million worldwide Uber riders and drivers had been exposed. Not only that, Uber paid US$100,000 to the hacker responsible to destroy the data in an effort to cover up the leak. This move, which was approved by Ubers former CEO Travis Kalanick, didnt work too well for the organisation and the companys CSO, Joe Sullivan, was sacked shortly after the incident made headlines. However, to this day Uber has avoided paying any significant fines in regard to this episode. Vietnam, July 2016: trouble in the airports Airlines around the globe are becoming attractive targets for hackers, as recent attacks on Singapore Airlines, Malindo Airways, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific show us. On July 2016, 410,000 clients of Vietnam Airlines saw personal information compromised after the national flag carriers website was subject to a cyberattack by self-proclaimed Chinese hackers. The data stolen, which was then leaked on the internet, belonged to VIP members of the airlines Lotusmiles scheme. It included names, birthdays and addresses. The attack, believed to be politically motivated, also affected flight information displays and speaker systems at Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Noi Bai International Airport, the countrys biggest airports. Intercepted screens showed derogatory messages in Chinese against Vietnam and the Philippines in their territorial row against China in the South China Sea. Banks raised concerns in the aftermath of the data breach about the use of the leaked information to steal their clients money, as many Lotusmiles members had used bank cards to complete transactions with the airline. Thailand, March 2016: Expats data compromised Late on a March Sunday afternoon, social media users noticed that a database containing the names, addresses, job titles and passport numbers of more than 2,000 foreign nationals living in Thailands southern province was widely available online. The website where the information was published carried the Thailand immigration police seal but used a private Thai web address, which is not usually associated with government sites. The data was openly accessible without a password and some users even guessed the administration password, which unsurprisingly was 12345. The site also featured a digital map pinpointing the expats location and their personal details, making it a cause for worry to hundreds of foreigners living in the southern region of the Asian country. When authorities ordered to take down the website on the following Monday, it was already too late: the sites existence had gone viral and it had become another stain in the governments cybersecurity record, which in 2016 had seen the websites of the police, courts and correction departments hacked. Thai Netizens, a digital advocacy group, tracked down the websites owner, a developer called Akram Aleeming, who later posted a statement on Facebook saying the site had mistakenly been made public during testing stages. According to his statement, the immigration police had commissioned the website. Philippines, March 2016: The biggest government data breach in history On 27 March 2016, 55 million voters in the Philippines were subject to whats been deemed the biggest government data breach in history after the entire database of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) was hacked and leaked. Behind the attack was a group self-named Anonymous Philippines. Following the breach, a second hacker group, LulzSec Pilipinas, posted the database online and since then it has been widely shared by others. Anonymous Philippines is a hacktivist community likely to be connected or inspired by the global Anonymous hacker network, which has rallied supporters in over 20 countries globally against government corruption and internet censorship. Among the data stolen from Comelec, which was distributed on both the dark and clear web, were 228,605 email addresses and 1.3 million passport numbers of overseas Filipino voters and 15.8 million fingerprint records. Other information contained within the breach included postal addresses, place of birth, height, weight, gender, marital status and parents names. Although dates of birth and names were encrypted, the rest of the data wasnt. What can CIOs in the region do to prevent data breaches? Unfortunately, data breaches in ASEAN and worldwide are expected to increase not only in the volume of data records but also on the value of the information stolen. Behind these attacks, say A.T. Kearney analysts, are no longer garage hackers but criminal organisations and well-funded nation-state actors with financial or geopolitical motives. To avoid your organisation ending up on this list (or getting a formal warning, as it was the case of LOreal Singapore this month), A. T. Kearneys Hari Venkataramani (partner, Southeast Asia), Carlos Oliver Mosquera (director, Southeast Asia) and Nikolai Dobberstein (partner, head of communications, media and technology APAC) recommend putting cybersecurity efforts where the risks are, rather than focusing purely on compliance. They also advise CIOs to work with their peers and with government agencies to share region-specific threat intelligence and know-how. We advise to promote wider collaboration within and across sectors to share region-specific threat intelligence and cybersecurity know how, Venkataramani, Mosquera and Dobberstein added. This can be greatly facilitated by government institutions, so we make a call to both CIOs and CISOs from the private sector and cybersecurity agencies to promote public-private collaboration partnerships. The majority of IT employees have no direct contact with their companys paying customers. Their understanding of customer needs, desires and preferences is obtained through a complex web of internal business functions. Each function has its own unique mix of priorities, politics and personalities that can warp the customer demand signals received by IT. The further IT recedes from direct interactions with paying customers, the greater the risk that the demand signals it receives are incomplete, inaccurate or irrelevant. Measuring degrees of separation from paying customers An obscure Hungarian author named Frigyes Karinthy originally suggested that any two individuals on earth could be connected to one another through five or fewer social relationships. He used this theory as the basis of a fictional short story called Chains that was published in 1929. Four students at Albright College subsequently popularized this principle by inventing a game in the 1990s called Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon. This game is based on the premise that anyone involved in the Hollywood film industry can establish a social connection between themselves and the actor Kevin Bacon through five or fewer intermediate relationships. The number of relationships required to establish a connection is referred to as an individuals Bacon Number. Google has fueled the popularity of this game by establishing an online search routine that calculates the Bacon Number of anyone in the film industry! Although Bacon Numbers are a frivolous metric, they might actually play a useful role in quantifying the degree to which the members of an IT organization or the activities they perform are connected to their companys paying customers. A Customer Bacon Number is not a frivolous metric since paying customers are ultimately responsible for the success and survival of any business. What are the degrees of separation between a Business Systems Analyst and a paying customer? What is the Bacon Number of an application enhancement project versus a network upgrade? How many individuals within an IT organization spend the majority of their time working on activities that have a Bacon Number of four or greater? When viewed in this light, Bacon Numbers might actually serve a useful purpose in identifying opportunities for establishing a clearer line of sight to paying customers across an entire IT organization. Reducing your organizational Bacon Numbers Direct customer interactions can play a critical role in focusing the attention of IT leaders on initiatives that will reduce customer friction, boost customer satisfaction and ideally increase revenues. IT organizations supporting B2C businesses will generally find it much easier to observe or participate in such interactions firsthand. If their company maintains retail outlets, they can personally visit brick and mortar stores to gain an appreciation of how customers navigate shopping aisles, deal with stockout problems or resolve checkout issues. If their company maintains an eCommerce site, they can configure product placements and navigation paths in highly customized ways to address the needs and interests of many different types of customers. Finally, if their organization maintains a customer support center, they can participate in support calls to obtain personal insight into the frustrations customers experience regarding product delivery, quality or warranty issues. Establishing opportunities to interact with paying customers in B2B businesses is more difficult but still possible. Some potential activities include: Assisting in the qualification of sales leads, either through direct participation in outbound marketing calls or in developing procedures for prioritizing prospective customers; Supporting field marketing events by working in a product display booth at an industry trade show or attending customer user group meetings; Managing or participating in online customer communities designed to provide feedback on a companys products or business procedures; Assisting with order entry, invoicing and shipping during end of quarter crunch time. Indirect interactions that reduce the degrees of separation without eliminating them altogether are useful as well. Examples include: Establishing specialized Concierge Desks within the IT Service Desk team that are exclusively dedicated to support your companys sales, marketing and professional services representatives who deal with customers on a daily basis; Attending quarterly business reviews in which changes in customer buying behaviors or overall product satisfaction are being discussed. In a former life I worked in a company that had established a specialized reward program for IT staff members called Walk a Mile in My Shoes. Winners were given time off from their normal IT duties and allowed to accompany sales representatives, field marketers, professional service consultants and procurement specialists in their day-to-day dealings with our companys customers and suppliers. This reward was extremely prestigious. It was exclusively given to our most productive and exceptional staff members, usually in recognition of some recent accomplishment. Participants inevitably returned from their temporary assignments completely overwhelmed by the practical ways in which business operations were actually being conducted within our company in contrast to some of the theoretical practices that were routinely discussed at Corporate Headquarters! Awardees returned to their normal IT duties doubly energized to do a better job of serving the needs of our customers and suppliers in the future. The organizations that hosted the awardees were also pleased with the opportunity to expose their daily operational challenges to an IT representative through direct on-the-job experience. IT leaders everywhere would be well served by establishing similar programs within their firms. The voice of the customer is the key to survival IT leaders seeking to make their organizations business relevant and strategically impactful need to establish communication channels that provide more direct exposure to the voices of their companies paying customers. They cannot rely solely on third- or fourth-hand customer demand signals transmitted through functional organizations. Unfortunately, there are no universally prescriptive solutions for establishing such channels. Leaders need to leverage their understanding of their companys business model as well as their personal creativity in crafting feedback channels that reduce the line of sight to paying customers. Staying attuned to the voice of the customer is not only critical to the survival of individual companies but its equally critical to the survival of an IT organization. Experience has shown that IT activities that are several steps removed from direct customer interaction, such as data center operations or end user laptop support, are frequently outsourced. Other activities that improve the efficiency of internal business operations or create new revenue-generating capabilities are more likely to be treated as core organizational competencies because they have shorter lines of sights to paying customers. Even under those circumstances, however, IT teams run the risk of being outsourced if they consistently fail to discover and address true customer needs. In Edward Marxs view, the future of healthcare and the future of IT are inextricably intertwined. Without technology theres no way to move the needle toward the bigger goal of improving care while also lowering costs, says Marx. A veteran executive who has won numerous awards for his technology leadership, Marx joined the Cleveland Clinic as CIO in 2017 with a mission to revolutionize the quality of patient care. Fewer places offer a better opportunity to do that. Cleveland Clinic has long been ranked one of the top hospitals in the United States, and its cardiology practice is considered second to none. But it struggles with the same cost, paperwork and complexity issues as everybody else in its industry. In response, the hospital has set two audacious goals and is looking to Marxs team to help deliver on them. The first is to make half of all outpatient visits virtual by 2024, meaning that the interaction between doctor and patient will be conducted electronically. At the same time, its seeking to shift one-quarter of in-patient days to in-home care. The technology to achieve those goals is already in place, Marx believes, and its anchored in the cloud. Eventually we want to get completely out of the data center business, he says. If a new product were considering isnt cloud-enabled we probably wont buy it. Robotics and artificial intelligence-enabled intelligent assistants can cut waste out of routine tasks. For example, machine learning algorithms can be applied to radiology so that instead of working through thousands of images, radiologists can focus on the images that demand attention, he says. Advanced analytics can scan patient histories in advance to cut down on unnecessary admissions. We can say Youre an excellent candidate to convalesce at home and well have someone come out and visit you, he says. The numbers are compelling: In-home patient care costs an average of 52% percent less than a hospital stay. Patients also sleep better, exercise more and see readmission rates that are less than one-third those of hospital-bound patients. Plus, Nobody likes staying in the hospital, Marx says. The CIO has moved aggressively to integrate IT staff with their business customers. His staff includes business relationship managers who are embedded in the departments they serve. Weekly meetings are held in the offices of business-side customers. And a quarter of his employees have certified clinical backgrounds. Is it difficult to find physicians who want to become IT professionals? Marx says youd be surprised. Clinicians are often drawn to IT, nurses in particular, he says. They spend years on the floor seeing technology at work and develop an affinity for it. They find they love both. Marx believes IT innovation emerges from the people who use IT, and employees who come from healthcare backgrounds instinctively place the needs of patients first. I can train people in technology, but I cant train them in compassion and empathy, he says. And thats important at Cleveland Clinic, where Marx says the quality of patient care is a more important metric than dollars. A subscriber to the principles of servant leadership, Marx nurtured his empathy skills through years of volunteer work in poverty-stricken communities in Mexico and Tanzania. Six years ago he and several medical colleagues founded Open Arms Medical Clinic to serve indigenous Maasai tribes in remote Tanzania. The Clinic is still in operation today. As a volunteer patient advocate at Cleveland Clinics cancer center, he can often be found chatting with patients while serving them drinks and snacks. You learn that people have needs beyond the material, and it drives you to develop new solutions to reach them, he says. At Cleveland Clinic, hes found a culture that agrees. California Integration Coordinators and Digi-Key Electronics announce a strategic relationship to offer Kitting Services to Digi-Key's customers Published: 08 May 2019 by Chelsey Drysdale by Chelsey Drysdale DIAMOND SPRINGS, Calif., May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- California Integration Coordinators, Inc. (CIC), a leading provider of printed circuit board procurement services that help OEM's build next generation printed circuit boards and Digi-Key Electronics (Digi-Key), a global electronic components distributor, have entered into a strategic relationship to offer Kitting Services to Digi-Key's electronic component customers located around the world. Since 1988, CIC has helped US and international firms develop prototype printed circuit boards for consumer products and critical industrial sectors in the global economy. During that time, we have expanded our capabilities to include contract procurement, kitting services, strategic inventory management, and custom fabrication. "Digi-Key has been a trusted partner since CIC was formed, so as we have expanded our capabilities, establishing this strategic relationship was a logical next step," said Cherie Myers, CEO and President. "Digi-Key, through our Design Services Provider resources has identified a key partner in CIC to help procure and manage components used to manufacture electronic systems. This includes kitting parts which alleviates what can be a very time-consuming effort to fulfill manufacturers' operations uptime requirements. CIC has a long history of providing excellent service to printed circuit board assembly customers, in multiple sectors, around the world. We are delighted to be working with Cherie Myers and her team on this new initiative," said Randall Restle, VP, Applications Engineering. About California Integration Coordinators www.cic-inc.com California Integration Coordinators, headquartered in Diamond Springs, California, USA, is a leading supplier of procurement, kitting, strategic inventory and custom fabrication services for the electronics component industry. To learn more, visit www.cic-inc.com. About Digi-Key Electronics www.digikey.com Digi-Key Electronics, headquartered in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, USA, is an authorized global, full-service distributor of electronic components, offering more than 8.7 million products, with over 1.7 million in stock and available for immediate shipment, from over 800 quality name-brand manufacturers. Additional information and access to Digi-Key's broad product offering can be found by visiting www.digikey.com. In the crowded and competitive race for Queens County district attorney, where everyone is running to the left of former District Attorney Richard Brown, Tiffany Caban has ventured further left than others are willing to go. The 31-year-old has never held elected office, and doesnt have any experience as a prosecutor or a judge. Perhaps due to her inexperience, she has hit a few bumps on the campaign trail, with reports of infighting and disarray and turnover on her team and a campaign volunteer caught spying on another candidate. But Caban knows the criminal justice system intimately, due to her experience as a public defender. And her ideas for fixing the system, in practice, arent as radical as one might expect. It starts, she explains, before trial, with prosecutors handing over evidence. When you don't have the evidence, how can you move forward with a case? Caban asked rhetorically, sitting at a long picnic table in her Jackson Heights campaign office early on a weekday morning last month. When you don't have the evidence, how can your client make a decision on whether to take a plea or not? When you don't have the evidence, how can you prepare for a trial? In many states, evidence is handed over to the defense right away. The defense has all the information needed to write a big omnibus motion addressing all of the issues. But the way it has typically worked in New York is that the D.A. shares information bit by bit, Caban said, and every time the defense gets a new piece of information, they have to write a new motion. And the clock stops ticking. The prosecutor is entitled to time to respond. The clock stops again. And so now youve lost, say, two to three months of time, just like that. In fact, Caban was transitioned off a murder case when she decided to run for office and her former client still awaits trial. He has been in jail for two years. As the nation comes to grips with the crisis of mass incarceration, activists, researchers and politicians are zeroing in on prosecutors as primary drivers of this problem and in fact, New York passed legislation a little over a month ago that requires prosecutors to share this evidence early on in a case. Caban, who served as a public defender for seven years, thinks the D.A.s office, which sets the pace for the courts, is primarily responsible for dragging out the trial process by deferring proceedings and withholding evidence. She says its the first thing she will change if she is elected Queens Countys next district attorney. Caban has represented people on charges ranging from turnstile jumps to homicide. As a public defender, she observed flaws in the system firsthand. Its not the same view as of a judge or an assistant district attorney, positions (occupied by four of her opponents; the other two are career politicians) that are integral to the criminal justice process. But Cabans perspective is from the bottom, defending people who are often disadvantaged and outmaneuvered from the moment they enter the system. The thing that is sort of surreal about when you represent somebody who's charged with something really, really serious, especially a violent crime, said Caban, is that you also see a person. Caban is tiny 53 and bursting with energy, zipping across her a small, mostly empty campaign outpost, as if trying to make up for her short stride. Clad in her standard uniform, a grey blazer pulled over a white-collared shirt tucked into denim, with reliable brown shoes (a relaxed take on a mens Cole Haan wingtip), she curses like a sailor or perhaps like a Queens native. Oh, fuck! she said as she fumbled with a coffee maker, uttering an interjection that slipped out on multiple occasions. I promise I do this at home every day! When answering questions about prosecution, she can sound a little rehearsed, responding like a politician sticking to talking points. My philosophy is, you should ask two simple questions on every single case, she said. How can we make sure this doesn't happen again? So what does it take to change behavior? Right? And to make communities safer, instead of measuring a prosecutors success by the number of convictions or length of sentences, Caban has these principles. You're successful if you do three things: if you can show that you can reduce recidivism, if you show that you can decarcerate our city, and if you show that you can apply the law fairly across racial and class lines. When District Attorney Richard Brown died this month, he had served Queens County for decades. For years, rumors had swirled around Queens political circles that Browns seat would open up, and Caban was among many who saw an opportunity for real change. Brown became Queens lead prosecutor during one of the toughest crime periods the early 1990s, when New York City was in the thick of a serious battle for public safety, facing challenges like the crack epidemic and rising homicides. There was a time where you couldnt walk around in the Far Rockaway, said New York City Councilman Donovan Richards, who represents Southeast Queens and Far Rockaway and also chairs the Committee on Public Safety. I certainly heard from people older than me that you couldnt walk around there without a gun. Browns response to high crime was to aggressively prosecute every class of offense. His tough-on-crime approach was consistent with the prevailing theories around public safety in the 1980s and 1990s, like broken windows policing, a theory developed in 1990s crime-ridden New York City. The approach, fine-tuned by the mayor at the time, Rudy Giuliani, and his police commissioner William Bratton, involved taking people in for petty crimes, like breaking windows, to discourage and prevent more serious crimes. (Some social scientists and activists have attacked this premise and point to its disproportionate impact on communities of color.) But times have changed: Homicides have plummeted, the crime rate is at record lows in the city, and the national dialogue around aggressive policing and prosecution has shifted as have the political winds in Queens. Perhaps the biggest indicator of this shift is the candidate pool for Browns seat. There are seven in the Democratic primary, scheduled for June 25 Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, City Councilman Rory Lancman, Judge Gregory Lasak, Betty Lugo, Mina Malik, Jose Nieves and Caban and theyre each clamoring to get to the left. (No Republicans submitted petitions.) They all say they will decline to prosecute nonviolent offenses like fare evasion and marijuana possession (which has already been limited in other boroughs), reduce or end cash bail another measure that was enacted in Albany this spring and significantly reduce the jail population. While endorsements have been divided among the top tier of candidates in the race, progressive activists are creating a tailwind for Caban. In March, her campaign was endorsed by Real Justice, a political action committee formed by civil rights activist Shaun King working to get progressive district attorneys elected nationally. Larry Krasner, the longshot former public defender who was elected district attorney in Philadelphia in 2017, was also supported by the PAC, as was Wesley Bell, the first black prosecutor in St. Louis County, Missouri, and Rachel Rollins, the D.A. in Suffolk County, which includes Boston. The Working Families Party also put its considerable clout behind Caban. And though Katz clinched the powerful support of the Queens Democratic machine, Caban also has New York Citys Democratic Socialists of America behind her, a rising force in New York politics that propelled Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez into office. State Sen. Julia Salazar, another DSA member, co-hosted a fundraiser for Caban on April 11. Salazar and Caban have some mutual friends, but she didnt really know Caban until she read through her DSA application for endorsement and said she was surprised by how genuine she came across. NYC DSA has a very, very thorough candidate questionnaire, and her responses were very thoughtful, very earnest, said Salazar. Earnest is an apt way to describe Caban. To explain how the criminal justice system neglects the circumstances that drive people to crime, she talks about her grandfather. As a child she was swept up by fantastical stories he would tell. As an adult, she began to contrast the patient, kind, funny grandfather she knew, with the domestic violence she also knew he inflicted on her grandmother. He served in the Korean War and came back mentally ill and abusive because of it. What our justice system doesn't do, what our D.A. offices don't do is take a guy like that and say he's also somebody who served our country, who went to war, who came back with mental illness, self-medicated because he didn't have access to resources, Caban said. And where were our systems in place to support him so that he could support his family? People are human beings, said Caban. They deserve dignity and respect throughout the process, and they deserve to have their constitutional rights preserved, and they deserve a defense. And they also deserve to be known. Because no matter what you are charged with, the idea should be that we should be doing less harm, and we should be ensuring less harm in the future. Both sets of Cabans grandparents are from Puerto Rico. They landed in the Bronx after emigrating to New York in the 1950s. Her parents, as young children, lived in the same housing projects in the Bronx and received housing transfers around the same time to another project Woodside Housing Projects in Queens, which is where they met. Caban grew up on the working-class side of South Richmond Hill, Queens then a largely Hispanic neighborhood south of Jamaica Avenue, where her parents still live, separately. Her father is a retired elevator mechanic and her mom a retired caretaker. She went to public school for elementary school and trekked to San Francis Prep, a Catholic school in Fresh Meadows, for high school. When it came time for college, she escaped an unstable home life (Cabans dad is a recovering alcoholic, which shes talked about publicly) for Penn State, studying criminal justice. A lot of the time what separates me from my clients is access to resources, said Caban. Its privilege, right? The reason why I could say that I havent repeated some of the things that my parents have done, that their parents have done, is because Ive had the opportunity to access therapy, to have reparative experiences, to be able to engage in healthier dynamics. Because Ive had the privilege or luck really of creating and having relationships with women who have been really patient and kind and open to hearing about my trauma history and helping me along the way. (Caban has a girlfriend who lives in Bushwick.) The only career public defender among the current and former prosecutors and government officials in the running, Caban has positioned herself as the insurgent, running from the outside and conspicuously speaking the language of the left. Since their platforms are relatively similar at the top Caban, Katz and Lancman are broadly considered to be the frontrunners the outcome of the election might come down to who has been the most consistent in their messaging. When you talk about everyone running on a progressive platform now, I dont think people have a choice. Ive seen all of the candidates evolve. I think the electorate has evolved, said Richards, who was quietly meeting with each of the candidates when we spoke in April. (Two weeks later, the councilman endorsed Katz.) People want to know peoples records, and I think thats going to come into play. Our community is very intelligent and very knowing. Where were you? What were you advocating for? Where have you been on these issues? Cabans campaign is grassroots-driven and has a small staff (just two people when I first reached out in late March) that reportedly has had to deal with turnover at the top, so shes relying on a large network of volunteers, many of whom volunteered for Ocasio-Cortez in her successful campaign to unseat former Rep. Joseph Crowley. I got in just about this time, near the end of petitioning, said Miriam Bensman, a former volunteer for Ocasio-Cortez whos now volunteering for Caban. She wasnt confident that the liberal 29-year-old bartender had a shot in hell at ousting veteran lawmaker Crowley. I was thinking, This is nuts, and then I just felt moved. And I said, You know what, Im going to do this, and I pushed other organizations that I knew. It seemed like a long shot, but I could see that there was this incredible grassroots energy around that campaign. We had hundreds and hundreds of volunteers. Thats whats happening again with this campaign, Bensman said. I got involved, I went to the first meetings in December or January. I thought, You know what, this is harder. Its a much bigger district. Instead of 800,000, its three times the number of people. Its a much bigger geography. But I think we have a real shot. Bensman is right that Queens is a vast borough, which presents challenges for all of the candidates. With roughly 2.3 million residents spread across a 109 square mile land area, Queens is by far the largest borough geographically. Nearly half of Queens residents were born in another country, according to census data, and the World Economic Forum has called it the language capital of the world. Each candidate will have to speak to a vast constituency, and none of them check every box. Theres obviously some demographic benefits that each candidate might have, but theres some very large constituencies within Queens that dont have a candidate from within their group, said Evan Stavisky, a partner with the Parkside Group, a political consulting firm based out of Manhattan, who has a history of consulting in Queens. For example, theres no African-American candidate, although the demographic makes up 20 percent of Queens. This isnt to say that people invariably vote with their ethnic group. In the Ocasio-Cortez-Crowley primary, Crowley carried the four African-American Assembly districts in Southeast Queens and split the Latino vote. But ethnicity is a factor. Another factor is visibility. Having served Queens since 2007, first in his capacity as an assemblyman, and since 2014 as a city councilman, Lancman will likely do better in his council district than he might do in other parts of the borough. Likewise, Katz has deep ties to Forest Hills, having grown up there and represented her hometown in the New York City Council for seven years, between 2002 and 2009. The eastern half of Queens is more suburban and conservative, and might appeal to a candidate closer to the establishment like Katz, who has the support of the Queens County Democratic Party. As borough president, Katz is also the only candidate who has already won a borough-wide race. Caban might try to recreate the AOC playbook, and the progressives coalescing around her certainly hope she does. Ocasio-Cortez did not have to win the entire borough, however. She did well in younger, more gentrified white communities, which arent reflective of the rest of the Queens. In fact, theres no other district that looks like that won by Ocasio-Cortez. Take Bayside and Douglaston, for instance, which are also majority white neighborhoods. Theyre older (the median age is 47.5), more establishment white neighborhoods with a lot of homeowners. Ultimately, adopting a similar strategy is not a perfect recipe for success. But movements matter, and theres something to be said for timing. High-profile deaths, like 22-year-old Kalief Browders suicide in 2015 after spending three years on Rikers Island, have drawn attention to civilian interactions with police and the criminal justice system, and the violent, even fatal outcomes that can result. Now, people are thinking about how prosecutors contribute to this cycle and reimagining the role of the district attorneys office. In races around the country, outsider candidates such as Krasner in Philadelphia, who had never prosecuted a single case before taking office began winning elections on platforms rooted in getting people out of jail, instead of getting people into jail. In March, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez announced Justice 2020, his sweeping reform agenda, aimed at reducing incarceration and transforming the system from the inside out. Its not whats changed in Queens, Stavisky said. Its whats changed in the country. Caban has a philosophy about prosecution. She believes in looking at community and generational trauma as a root cause of crime. How do you do that from the D.A.s office? First, change how success is measured for prosecutors. Everybody across the board is talking about these reforms: end cash bail, decriminalize poverty, and discovery reform. What I consistently say is how you do it matters. You could say Im going to end cash bail and actually increase our incarcerated population, said Caban. If you keep saying that the metrics are convictions and sentences, than making those reforms are never going to have the intended impact. You have to change the driving reasons. So thats what happens on Day One. Caban has already started building her team for the office, which, she says, includes two former prosecutors with leadership and managerial experience, and shes working on building a steering committee of professionals. (She declined to name them because they are in other jobs and are not ready to go public.) We have allowed our system to be a place where we just punt public health issues to our D.A. offices, which really shouldn't be what's happening, she said. When we talk about making sure crime doesn't happen and stabilizing communities and providing services, and being a clearinghouse for services to promote public safety, then what you need to do is also step back and acknowledge that you are not the expert in everything and making sure that we have educators in leadership roles in the D.A.s office; that we have mental health experts in leadership roles in the D.A.s office; that we have immigration attorneys in leadership roles in the D.A.s office so that you have a team of people who buy into and believe in the system and the goals and the metrics in our communities, but are there to provide you with the support you need to be successful. Caban is a supporter of the No New Jails Initiative. As D.A., she would decline to prosecute low-level marijuana offenses, fare evasion, airport taxis, welfare fraud, sex work, massage parlors and unlicensed driving in any case. And, shed end cash bail for all crimes not just nonviolent crimes, which has been proposed by other candidates. Would she abolish prisons? Thats not on her agenda, but she still has an answer. I think that when we talk about prison abolition, I think were not close to it, she said. In a perfect world, thats where we would be. Thats where we should be. Correction: An earlier version of this post incorrectly said that Tiffany Caban was the only Queens district attorney candidate who sought the endorsement of the Democratic Socialists of America. New York City Councilman Rory Lancman did as well. A.O. PRIMARIA MEA este in cautare de o companie IT sau de un intreprinzator individual pentru crearea si dezvoltarea unei pagini web a organizatiei Last Tuesday, in the Venezuelan capital of Caracas, Juan Guaido, the opposition leader in the country, called for a military uprising against the government of President Nicolas Maduro. It was a bold step in the countrys political crisis, which began in January when Guaido swore himself in as interim president in the wake of a contested election. Soon, forces loyal to both sides fired tear gas at one another in the streets, while protestors lobbed rocks and Molotov cocktails. As the clashes escalated, Guillermo Olmo, an international correspondent for the BBC, found himself and his crew caught in the turmoil. Olmo attempted standups, donning a black helmet and dark blue flak jacket, but the situation quickly deteriorated. His fixer moved Olmo and his crewa producer, a cameraman, and a driverto the roof of a nearby parking building, where they were able to continue their work in relative safety. At this point, uncertainty is the only thing that can be taken for granted in Venezuela, Olmo said in his broadcast. Since Olmo first arrived in Venezuela, last July, conditions have fallen apart. Ill-defined and often unannounced security zones dot the capital, in which journalists are often stopped and sometimes have their equipment confiscated. And across the country, security officials at all levels seem entitled to harass journalists; thats not to mention the pro-government paramilitary gangs, known as colectivos, which rove with impunity. Olmo avoids traveling at night, he says, and tries to keep a low profile. As in many of the worlds danger zones, Venezuelas political crisis has become an information war, Olmo says. The country is so polarized that people on both sides think the media is just another part of the fight, he says. Information is seen as a weapon, something to be thrown into your adversary. The local press has been ravaged by years of government attacks. And, its increasingly difficult for reporters to turn to local experts who arent already entrenched on one side or the other of the conflict, Olmo says. Related: Venezuelas war on the press Following Tuesdays violence, the opposition claimed that more than a dozen people had been killed by pro-government forces. The number was difficult to verify; there are no reliable official figures, and many civilians are reluctant to talk to journalists for fear of reprisal by the government. Nick Paton Walsh, a correspondent for CNN, visited the hospital in Caracas where the injured were taken. We found exactly what we hoped we might not necessarily find, Paton Walsh said, speaking to CJR from outside the hospital, as an ambulancewhich he believes carried the body of a 14-year-old protesterwailed away from the building, trailed by police cars. Paton Walsh, who has reported frequently from Venezuela in recent months, says the only way to cover the country is to see it for yourself. Both sides have repeatedly claimed that the other is on the edge of collapse, Paton Walsh says. And both sides continue to disappoint in terms of that standing up to reality. Sign up for CJR 's daily email In Paton Walshs view, Guaido has leveraged the international press, as well as social media, to show change as both imminent and inevitable in the countryeven if that message is not always backed up by facts on the ground. His team [has] been quite skillful showmen in that way, Paton Walsh says. The press has been less kind to Maduro, whose government is by all rights responsible for the countrys years of economic and humanitarian decline. No objective reporter can exonerate them, and that limits who they have been able to spread their message through, Paton Walsh says. On more than one occasion, Maduros response to unfriendly reporters has been to target and censor the press. On the day of the protests, feeds to CNN and the BBC were blocked on Venezuelas cable television carriers, after they aired footage of military vehicles driving over opposition protesters. According to Natalie Southwick, the Central and South America program coordinator at the Committee to Protect Journalists, threats, detention, and sometimes deportation are common tactics used by Maduro to limit negative coverage. In one week in January, security forces arrested ten journalists. Some were released. Others were deported. In February, Jorge Ramos, Univisions best-known journalist, was detained in Venezuelas Miraflores presidential palace, following a contentious interview with Maduro in which Ramos brought out pictures of Venezuelans trawling trash bins for food, contradicting Maduros storyline of a healthy economy. Ramos and his crew were swiftly deported to Miami, after security officials seized their video equipment, memory cards, and cell phones. Often, when journalists equipment is confiscated, officials scan their devices in an effort to oust their sources and fixers. Reporters also face a digital threat, Southwick says, with the government able to tap into an army of online trolls. And lately, Southwick says, journalists wanting to get into the country have faced problems obtaining visas, especially those coming from countries whose relations with Venezuela are contentious. Many outlets have opted for workarounds, including reporting from Colombia. Cody Weddle, an American freelancer currently in Bogota, lived and worked in Venezuela for four years, contributing primarily to an ABC affiliate in Miami. Early one morning in March, his apartment in Caracas was unexpectedly raided by counterintelligence officials, and Weddle was deported to the US. The residency visa in his passport remains intact, however. I expected them to mark it out with a Sharpie at least, Weddle tells CJR. He has considered returning to Caracas but fears what might happen when he reaches immigration. From Bogota, he gathers video and information from longtime sources and fixers in Venezuela, but he expresses frustration that he cant get a feel for the mood on the streets himself. I wish I was there, Weddle says. Fow now, according to Olmo, Caracas is quiet. But, of course, it could change at any time, he says. The BBCs television feed in the country remains down, which Olmo regrets; he views a significant part of his job as serving the Venezuelan people, many of whom, he says, are tired of a polarized information environment and glad when they can get a clear-eyed take of the situation in their country. CNNs feed also remains down, according a spokesperson for the network. Paton Walsh says Maduro has refrained, so far, from a wholesale clampdown on journalists. In Paton Walshs assessment, Maduro might judge that it serves his interests for foreign journalists to observe for themselves that Guaido, for all the support he has garnered abroad, doesnt actually have his hands on the levers of power in the countryand, moreover, that despite images of chaos on foreign newscasts, daily life in the country largely carries on as normal. Even if that normal is shockingly, horrifyingly bad and sadly quite preventable, Paton Walsh says. In March, Paton Walsh and his crew stood on a bridge in Cucuta, Colombia, just across from the Venezuelan border. A week prior, the bridge had been the site of bloody clashes between Venezuelan security forces and opposition protestors who were advocating, in vain, for much-needed aid to be allowed into the country. But now the bridge was empty, with a grotty shipping container splayed across its width, blocking passage. The area still buzzed with people, though, many of whom appeared to be disappearing into distant foliage. We wondered, Where on earth are they all going? Paton Walsh says. The crew followed the crowds to a rocky riverbed, where people carrying all manner of food and supplies helped each other along slippery stones into Venezuela. There had been all this artifice about the police being in control and the border being closed, he says. and suddenly you see right in front of you that its all nonsense, that basic human needs have won out. ICYMI: Jorge Ramoss expulsion, and the sorry state of Venezuelan media Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Andrew McCormick is an independent journalist and former CJR Delacorte Fellow. His work has appeared in the New York Times, The Atlantic, the South China Morning Post, and more. Follow him on Twitter @AndrewMcCormck. In early October, David Barstow, Susanne Craig, and Russ Buettner, of The New York Times, unloaded an astonishing story on the dubious business and tax affairs of Donald Trump and his family. The piece took 18 months of reporting and ran to nearly 15,000 words. Last month, the reporters behind it won a Pulitzer. Yesterday, Buettner and Craig published another deep story4,000 words, this timebased on a decades worth of previously unseen Trump tax records. They paint a picture of dizzying financial loss. This is entirely consistent with what Ive been reporting on Donald for 30 years: its all a fraud, David Cay Johnston, a longtime watcher of Trumps finances, told CNNs Chris Cuomo last night. Russ Buettner and Susanne Craig are journalistic Totos who have pulled back the curtain and revealed that the wizard is actually a con artist. For their latest blockbuster, someone who had legal access gave Buettner and Craig printouts from Trumps IRS tax transcripts for the years 1985 to 1994enabling the fullest and most detailed look to date at the presidents taxes, information he has kept from public view. The reporters matched the figures against publicly available, if anonymized, IRS data on top earners; other public records; and the document cache they used to report their October story. They found that in 1985, Trump reported losses of $46.1 million from his core businesses. By 1994, those losses had grown to a 10-year total of $1.17 billion. In 1987, when Trump published The Art of the Deal, a parable of self-made success, he was already hemorrhaging money. For eight of the 10 years in the Timess sample, he lost so much that he paid no federal income tax; in several of those years, it would seem that he lost more than nearly any other individual taxpayer. ICYMI: As the republic teeters, will the news media get serious? Yesterdays Times story dropped at an opportune moment. Since taking control of the House of Representatives at the beginning of the year, Democrats have made clear their intention to get hold of more recent Trump tax returns. On Monday, Steven Mnuchin, the Treasury secretary, turned down a formal request from Richard Neal, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, who had asked for the presidents personal and business returns for the years 2013 to 2018; the request, Mnuchin said, lacked a legitimate legislative purpose and would violate taxpayer privacy. House Democrats insist they have the authority to demand the returns. The matter is likely to end up in the Supreme Court. Buettner and Craig note that their new reporting does not answer questions raised by House Democrats nor does it offer a fundamentally new narrative of [Trumps] picaresque career. When it comes to the Trump presidency, however, reporting like theirs moves things everyone sort of knew beyond supposition and innuendo and into the realm of provable fact, bolstering key details against the fake news cries of the president and his outriders. It also, crucially, cuts through the noise that surrounds Trump, nailing public attention to the phoney rationale behind Trumps political success. As Kyle Pope, CJRs editor and publisher, wrote in October, this type of journalism transcends the headlines of the day, focusing on an elemental, fundamental aspect of this man and this presidency that, it turns out, is even more divorced from our common understanding than we might have previously thought. It is an example of journalism as long game, a sport that more of us need to be playing. As the Timess Binyamin Appelbaum tweeted yesterday, the biggest takeaway from his papers latest scoop is the massive amount we still dont know about Trumps finances and business dealings in the 25 years that follow the end of this story. Surely, at some point, the gaps in our knowledge are going to be filled. When they are, dont be surprised if Buettner and Craigrather than Congressional Democratsare the source. Sign up for CJR 's daily email Below, more on Trump and his tax affairs: Trump burned? After winning the Pulitzer last month, Craig spoke with Pope on our podcast , The Kicker . While reporting their October piece, Craig and her colleagues consumed years worth of Trump media coverage and were shocked by how fawning it was, including from the Times . After that piece came out, CJRs Pete Vernon spoke with Johnston about Trumps business past, also on The Kicker . Corners turned? While Democrats in Washington vie for Trumps federal returns, lawmakers in New York are pushing a bill that would allow Congressional committees to see Trumps state returns, the Times reports . According to The Washington Post , meanwhile, Trumps Consumer Financial Protection Bureau yesterday proposed rules that would allow debt collectors to send unlimited amounts of texts and emails to members of the public. Lessons learned? For CJR, Todd Gitlin asks whether we can expect the news media to properly scrutinize Trump going into the 2020 election given the disproportionate airtime given to synthetic scandal last time around. It behooves journalists everywhere to ask why it wasnt until after the election that the Times investigators Barstow, Craig, and Buettner went to work on the Trump business story, Gitlin writes. Other notable stories: ICYMI: Teacher facing possible firing over student sex worker profile Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop. About the photo: Rescuers work at the scene of an Ethiopian Airlines flight crash near Bishoftu, or Debre Zeit, south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Monday, March 11, 2019. AP file photo. With plane crashes making headlines over the weekend, one in Florida with no fatalities and another in Russia that killed dozens, travelers might question whether flying has become less safe. Aviation experts regard the recent incidents as a statistical blip, however, pointing out that such accidents and fatalities are a fraction of what they were as recently as the 1990s. Advances in aircraft and airport design, better air traffic control, and improved pilot training are often cited as factors in reducing accidents. I dont think well ever get to zero accidents, but aviation is still the safest its ever been, said Seth Young, director of the aviation program at Ohio State University. In the U.S., no airline passengers were killed in accidents from 2009 until April 2018, when a woman on a Southwest Airlines jet died after an engine broke apart in flight. Worldwide, there were more than 50 fatal airline accidents a year through the early and mid-1990s, claiming well over 1,000 lives annually, according to figures compiled by the Flight Safety Foundation. Fatalities dropped from 1,844 in 1996 to just 59 in 2017, then rose to 561 last year and 209 already this year. Nearly half of the airline deaths in 2018 and 2019 occurred during the crashes of two Boeing 737 Max jets in Indonesia and Ethiopia. In each case, investigators are examining the role of flight software that pushed the nose of the plane down based on faulty sensor readings. That raises concern about safety around automated flight controls, said William Waldock, an expert at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Pilots are not being trained as much as pilots as they are system operators and system managers, he said. So when something happens and the automation fails, they get flummoxed. Beyond the two Max crashes, safety experts see little immediate connection between other incidents such as the deadly weekend crash of a Russian plane that caught fire after an emergency landing in Moscow and the case of the charter airliner that ran off a Florida runway into a river; no one died in that one. Investigators probe crashes in search of clues to prevent more accidents from the same cause. In the case of the Aeroflot jet that caught fire, killing more than 40 people on board, attention is likely to turn to Russian media reports that lightning disabled the planes communications system and whether pilots should have burned off fuel before the emergency landing. Lightning strikes are not uncommon. In the U.S. alone, there are about 25 million every year, according to the National Weather Service. A Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said airline planes get hit about once a year on average. Planes are built so that the fuselage acts as an electricity-conducting shield, keeping the voltage away from passengers and critical systems. The jolt is often dissipated off wings or the tail. Critical electronics have surge protection. Nitrogen is used to reduce the risk that electrical arcing could spark a fire in a fuel tank. Newer planes like the Boeing 787, which uses carbon composite material instead of aluminum, includes fine wiring in the wings to direct current off the plane, said John Hansman, an aeronautics professor at MIT. They should be designed to take a lightning strike, Hansman said, but if you dont have a perfectly grounded airplane, if you dont have the right surge suppressors, its possible you can take out some of the avionics or electronics. Sundays fiery crash in Moscow raised questions about making an emergency landing shortly after takeoff, while the plane is still fully loaded with fuel and likely over the maximum landing weight. Only very large airliners have the ability to dump fuel. Most jetliners including the popular Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 do not. That leaves only one option for lightening the fuel load on a plane like the Russian-made Sukhoi SSJ100 _ circling long enough to burn fuel. John Cox, a former airline pilot and now a safety consultant, said he would only circle if he were concerned that something was wrong with the planes landing gear, or the runway was too short. Video of the landing showed the Aeroflot plane seem to touch down on its main landing gear, then bounce up before coming down hard a second time. At that point, flames can be seen coming from the jet. Video also captured passengers toting their carry-on luggage as they fled the burning jet. Passengers on U.S. airlines are told to leave personal belongs in an emergency because it can slow the evacuation when seconds are precious. We will never know if more lives could have been saved if the bags were left behind, said Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. For many people who care for aging parents, one solution is a safe, responsible nursing home. But an increasingly common means of ensuring that safety security cameras installed by relatives may do more harm than good, says Clara Berridge,an assistant professor of social work at the University of Washington. With reports of crimes against nursing home residents gaining media attention around the country, its understandable that families would want to protect their loved one and attempt to establish accountability for care, Berridge said. But in articles published late last winter in AJOB Empirical Bioethics and Elder Law Journal, Berridge outlines the list of legal and moral issues that surveillance raises. The use of cameras in resident rooms is so common that some states have passed laws to help families and facilities navigate the legal issues. But its not just a gray zone for law. Lots of ethical issues are at play, and it raises the question of privacys role in our lives. At least 10% of Americans ages 60 and older are believed to have been the victim of some form of elder abuse, whether physical, sexual or psychological, or in the form of financial mismanagement or a deprivation of resources such as food or medication. (Cases are believed to be underreported, making the 10 percent figure a low estimate.) While most abuse is committed by relatives, the high-profile nature of crimes against nursing home residents by facility staff can alarm anyone whose loved one is in residential care. This is especially true for families of people with forms of dementia, because those residents are less likely to be able to accurately report abuse. So far, seven states, including Washington, have passed laws allowing placement of surveillance cameras in the rooms of nursing home residents. In the Elder Law Journal article, Berridge and her co-authors analyze each states law and conclude that for each law, privacy concerns remain. For the study published in AJOB Empirical Bioethics, Berridge distributed an online survey through the Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research at Brown University to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. More than 270 facilities from 39 states responded to the anonymous survey, which included specific and open-ended questions about policies and use of surveillance cameras. Of the caregiving facilities that responded, some 11% had initiated use of cameras on their premises. In this survey, the majority of respondents cited privacy and dignity of residents as key disadvantages to cameras. By their very nature, surveillance cameras record all of the activity in a room, including personal moments such as hygiene or dressing. From a crime-prevention perspective, those are times when a resident is most vulnerable, but from a privacy perspective, the resident may not want such footage to be recorded, let alone viewed. Tied to questions about privacy is the issue of consent, Berridge said not only whether the resident has the capacity to consent to being monitored, but also, in the case of two-person rooms, whether the roommate can consent. Most nursing home residents have a roommate. Protecting their privacy when a camera is in the room would be very difficult in practice, especially if the camera picks up audio, Berridge said. We found that the real-life constraints on opportunities to selectively move or cover a camera in a given situation are not acknowledged in the state laws. These are chronically understaffed settings. A less-cited and often overlooked issue, Berridge added, is the legal responsibility the camera owner has for the security of the feed. Installing a camera without establishing a secure portal can expose the resident (and a roommate) to hackers. Respondents to the survey pointed to potential advantages of cameras, as well, particularly as deterrents to abuse, and to use by the facilities themselves to inform about individual residents needs and as resources to help staff improve. Ultimately, Berridge and her co-authors say that while cameras may offer families some comfort, they arent the answer to preventing abuse, or a proxy for accountability. Rather, the focus should be on reform and increased funding for the long-term care system so that nursing homes and assisted living facilities are sufficiently staffed, with employees paid a living wage. Berridge points to a culture change movement in long-term care that aims to deinstitutionalize nursing homes and make them more home-like. This movement involves practices to improve care quality, enhance person-centeredness, and empower staff. In Washington, lawmakers this year passed the Long-Term Care Trust Act, which establishes a publicly funded source of long-term care insurance. The measure, which awaits Gov. Jay Inslees signature, may help people pay for in-home services as an alternative to nursing home care. Berridge recently received a four-year, nearly $500,000 grant from the National Institute on Aging to develop a self-administered tool to help people with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia and their families understand and make decisions about the use of a range of technologies that remotely monitor people in their homes for their safety, including webcams. Unlike cameras in nursing home rooms that are aimed at potential abusers, technologies addressed in this study are used to monitor older adults activities and behaviors. Its easy, Berridge explained, for adult children to overlook, or even dismiss, the concerns of a parent when it comes to issues of monitoring care, and the parents right to privacy and sense of freedom. This tool will be the first of its kind to support families to navigate the complex technology landscape and guide them in balancing their perceived need for ongoing surveillance and the older adults dignity and wishes, Berridge said. The Elder Law Journal article was funded by the Borchard Foundation Center on Law and Aging. Berridge conducted the survey while a postdoctoral fellow at Brown University through a National Research Service Award from the Agency for Health Research and Quality. Co-authors on the camera study were Jodi Halpern of the University of California, Berkeley and Karen Levy of Cornell University; Levy also led the Elder Law Journal article, along with Lauren Kilgour of Cornell. Source: University of Washington HOUSTON Residents seeking compensation after their Houston-area homes and businesses were flooded by two federally owned reservoirs during Hurricane Harvey say authorities knew for decades that such an inundation was inevitable but did nothing to prevent it, an attorney for the property owners said in court Monday. The two-week trial will focus on claims by residents who lived and worked upstream of the Addicks and Barker reservoirs. The lawsuits allege the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which maintains the dams, knew their capacity would exceed federal land and inundate homes and businesses on adjacent private property. The trial focuses on 13 properties as test cases to determine whether the federal government would be liable for damage to flooded homes. People lost everything. People lost possessions, memories, said Daniel Charest, one of the attorneys for the residents and business owners, who are among hundreds of lawsuits filed in connection with flooding from the two reservoirs. Charest said his clients are not questioning the actions of the Corps of Engineers, but they are due just compensation for the taking of their property. He said the Corps of Engineers knew for decades such flooding would happen. But Harvey was a historically large rainfall event that was unprecedented, said William Shapiro, an attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice, which is representing the Corps of Engineers. Flooding in a storm of this size was inevitable, Shapiro said. Harvey, which made landfall as a Category 4 storm on Aug. 25, 2017, killed 68 people and caused an estimated $125 billion in damage in Texas. In the Houston area, Harvey caused 36 deaths and flooded more than 150,000 homes. Around the reservoirs, located about 20 miles (30 kilometers) west of downtown Houston, more than 10,000 properties flooded. Houses downstream of the dams also flooded when officials released water after concerns the reservoirs could fail. Homeowners who were flooded downstream have also sued and their lawsuits are being handled separately. When it doesnt rain, land around the two dams, built more than 70 years ago, is dry, green space with parks. Many residents who flooded said they were unaware their homes were built on land used as a reservoir. During heavy rainfall events, the dams are closed to collect water from local bayous and creeks and ensure it doesnt flow at an uncontrolled rate downstream to downtown Houston and the Houston Ship Channel. Shapiro said that during Harvey, the federal governments actions in operating the dams and controlling releases from it were done to prevent the loss of life and destruction of property downstream of the reservoirs. Todd Banker, whose home is one of the 13 test properties, said his house was flooded for about a week. His family didnt have flood insurance and they had to use their savings, which has hurt their efforts to save money to provide for their 10-year-old daughter who has special needs. Thats where its really hit us, Banker said outside the courthouse during a break in testimony. So, we just want to be back to where we thought we were. So, we know where we are for her future. Banker and others who live upstream of the reservoirs allege the federal government violated the takings clause of the Fifth Amendment, which states that private property cant be taken for public use without just compensation. Their lawyers say structures upstream of the reservoirs were built in areas known as flood pools, where water collects as the dams fill up. Their attorneys say the federal government doesnt own all the land that encompasses this flood pool and a portion of the flood pool is on private property. The case is before Judge Charles Lettow on the U.S. Court of Federal Claims in Washington. D.C. His ruling on the issue of liability was expected to be issued sometime after the trial. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. BROOKLYN, Ohio -- Drug abuse, Biddulph Road: On April 23, police observed a car speeding in a school zone on Biddulph Road. The driver was going 36 mph in the 20 mph zone. While talking to the Berea driver, the officer smelled marijuana. During a search of the vehicle, police found marijuana, as well as a digital scale. The woman was cited for drug abuse and possession of drug paraphernalia. Counterfeit money, Northcliffe Avenue: On April 23, a Northcliffe Avenue business called police after discovering that a customer had used a fake $100 bill to pay for services. An arriving officer talked to the Cleveland Pain Specialists employee, who said that earlier that day, a patient had paid using a counterfeit bill. Police are investigating. Disabled vehicle, Clinton Road: On April 25, police observed a disabled pickup truck on Clinton Road. The officer said the vehicle didnt have lights or flashers on, and was posing a traffic hazard. The pickup truck was towed away. Shoplifting, Brookpark Road: On April 26, a Walmart employee observed a shopper stealing merchandise. An arriving officer located the Richwood, Ohio, man stealing a pressure washer. The shopper was arrested for theft. Assault, Idlewood Drive: On April 27, police were dispatched to an Idlewood Drive residence regarding an assault. An arriving officer talked to the resident, who said she had been assaulted by a man. Police are investigating. Property damage, Tiedeman Road: On April 29, a passerby called police after a vehicle struck a guide wire for a utility pole near Aldis on Tiedeman Road. The Middleburg Heights driver was not cited for property damage. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page . Read more news from the Parma Sun Post here. CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Just about a year after enacting its Complete and Green Streets policy, the city has been recognized nationally. That Top 10 recognition became official May 8 from the National Complete Streets Coalition, an affiliate of the nonprofit Smart Choice America. City officials also learned that Cleveland Heights actually finished first in the rankings of Complete Streets policies passed last year, culminating several years of work by city staff and the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC). In drafting and instituting the policy, Cleveland Heights joined nearly 1,500 communities making a commitment to moving people, not just vehicles as the highest priority for the local transportation network. Policies like the one passed in Cleveland Heights are urgently needed, said Emiko Atherton, director of the National Complete Streets Coalition. In a press release announcing the accolades, Atherton cited statistics showing that the number of people struck and killed while walking has increased by 35 percent nationally over the past 10 years. The local Complete Streets resolution passed last May starts with safety, calling for multi-purpose streets that better accommodate walkers, cyclists and public transportation. From there, it takes on a broader, more ecological scope in reducing the environmental impact of our transportation infrastructure, incorporating green strategies to reduce waste, stormwater runoff and energy consumption. The citys Complete Streets policy also dovetails with the Master Plan passed in 2017 that involved extensive community input and a grant through the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission. Master Plan objectives include providing a complete transportation network, as well as environmentally sustainable goals, high-quality infrastructure and, on various fronts, a safe, engaged and healthy community. Upon receiving the news, City Manager Tanisha Briley issued a statement commending the efforts of the TAC, City Planning Director Richard Wong and Councilwoman Mary Dunbar, who chairs the Housing and Transportation Committee and serves as vice president of the Heights Bicycle Coalition. To have one of the best Complete Streets policies in the nation is a testament to the collaborative work of highly capable and dedicated staff, residents and elected officials, Briley said. According to the national guidelines, a complete streets approach is one that integrates people and place in the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of transportation networks. This helps to ensure streets are safe for people of all ages and abilities, balance the needs of different modes, and support local land uses, economies, cultures and natural environments, Atherton added. Retired executive director of the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA) and former Cleveland Heights planning director Howard Maier served as TAC co-chair, along with Marc Lefkowitz, sustainability director at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. We actually have complete and green streets, but this will codify it in Cleveland Heights, Maier said at the time the legislation was introduced. Calling the Complete and Green Streets policy state-of-the-art, Dunbar added that the intent was to boost the livability and environmental needs of our community," including the reduction of runoff water that winds up in storm sewers. For more Sun Press news, click here. STRONGSVILLE, Ohio -- Debris on road, Fox Hollow Drive: On April 27, a council representative called police about a resident who constantly blows their pine needles into the street. An arriving officer talked to the homeowner, who said he thought the citys street cleaners would pick up the needles. The man was advised that thats not how it works. He was advised to clean up his own needles. Unwanted mow, Westwood Drive: On April 27, a Westwood Drive resident called police after a landscaper mowed half of the residents back yard without his permission. The officer left a message with the landscaper to no longer cut the callers property. The officer also said that if they continue, charges will be filed. In the meantime, the officer recommended that the caller put signs up along his property line so that theres no future confusion. Continuous lanes, Howe Road: On April 27, police observed a weaving Jeep on Howe Road. An officer suspected that the driver was intoxicated; however, the driver did pass a field sobriety test. The driver was given a warning for not driving in continuous lanes. Disturbance, Fox Grove: On April 27, an anonymous caller phoned police about a party taking place at a Fox Grove residence where alcohol was being served to minors. An arriving officer talked to the homeowner, who said their daughter had some friends over; however, there was no drinking taking place. The officer advised the homeowner to turn down the music. Parking complaint, Tomson Drive: On April 27, a Tomson Drive resident called police about a gray Pontiac parked illegally overnight on the street. An arriving officer located the Pontiac and issued a citation. Disturbance, Knowlton Parkway: On April 27, a Knowlton Parkway resident called police about loud screaming and banging coming from a neighbors apartment. An arriving officer located the unit. The occupants said they were just having a verbal argument. The woman said she was going to take a break and sit in her car for a while. Disturbance, Winchester Court: On April 27, a mother called police asking them to evict her daughter from the Winchester Court home. An arriving officer talked to the mother, who said the daughter doesnt help around the house or pay any bills. The officer told the woman the police cant do evictions. The mother said shes at her wits end. The officer gave her advice about evictions. Suspicious situation, Stone Creek Oval: On April 27, a concerned resident called police after noticing men cutting down trees on city property. An arriving officer located the workers, who had been hired to take down trees on property by its owner. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page . Read more news from the Sun Star Courier here. UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Marijuana possession, Miramar Boulevard: At 9:40 a.m. April 30, police were dispatched to Wiley Middle School, 2181 Miramar Blvd., on a report that a student, a 14-year-old Cleveland Heights boy, had smoked marijuana and was feeling ill. Police took the boy to Rainbow Babies and Childrens Hospital. Information about the matter has been forwarded to the juvenile prosecutor. Grand theft, Cedar Road: At 1:50 p.m. April 29, a South Euclid woman, 60, reported that her Jeep was stolen from the lot of a University Heights business. Cleveland police recovered the Jeep several hours later in the area of East 88th Street. The incident is under investigation. Driving under suspension, Cedar Road: At 11:50 p.m. April 29, an officer stopped a car that did not have two working headlights. It was then discovered that the cars driver, an East Cleveland man, 27, had a suspended license. The man was cited for driving under suspension, failure to reinstate a license and for the non-working headlight. Theft, Cedar Road: At 4:15 p.m. April 29, police were dispatched to Target, 14070 Cedar Road, where a girl, 17, was being detained for stealing merchandise worth $117. The girl was cited for theft and turned over to the custody of her mother. OVI, Warrensville Center Road: At 9:15 p.m. April 30, police were notified about a hit-skip crash in which a motorist followed the suspects car into Shaker Heights. Shaker Heights police stopped the suspects car and learned that the driver, a Bedford Heights man, 40, was intoxicated. The man was charged with OVI, not stopping after an accident, not driving within marked lanes and having an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. Theft, Cedar Road: At 12:55 p.m. May 2, security at Target reported that they had in custody two women who had shoplifted boys clothing worth a total of $221. Police arrested and charged with theft a Maple Heights woman, 19, and a Cleveland woman, 18. Disturbing the peace, Jackson Boulevard: At 12:25 a.m. May 5, police were called to a home where a loud party was taking place. Officers ended the party and, later, cited the man renting the home, 18, for disturbing the peace. Theft, Cedar Road: At 4:55 p.m. May 5, a woman reported that, while she was at work, someone stole her wedding ring, valued at $8,000. Burglary, Warrensville Center Road: At 2:30 p.m. May 4, a John Carroll University student reported that several JCU students had entered her residence and stolen cash and merchandise worth a total of $1,020. An investigation is under way. If you would like to discuss the police blotter, please visit our crime and courts comments page. See more Sun Press news here. CLEVELAND, Ohio A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by a man who said Euclid police used excessive force during a November 2016 encounter. Lamar Wright, 38, said in a 2017 lawsuit that officers Kyle Flagg and Vashon Williams approached him when he pulled into a driveway of an East 212th Street home. He said officers used excessive force on him when they pulled out their weapons as they approached his SUV and used a Taser and pepper spray to subdue him before they removed him from the vehicle. Wright, who lives in East Cleveland, was recovering from surgery at the time and had a colostomy bag attached to his lower abdomen. The officers were wearing street clothes and had their badges on, but Wright said he thought they were robbers at first. He said he pulled into the driveway of an acquaintance to use his cellphone and respond to a text from his girlfriend. Senior U.S. District Judge Donald Nugent ruled that Wright did not prove his constitutional rights were violated. The judge wrote in a 25-page opinion that officers had reasonable suspicion to approach Wright. Flagg and Williams were conducting surveillance at a house to monitor suspected drug activity, and Wright had pulled into that houses driveway prior to the second driveway where he was stopped and arrested, the judge said. The officers pulled their guns after seeing Wrights SUVs reverse tail lights go on, and Nugent wrote officers are allowed to draw weapons if they believe a car is going to run them over. The judge also wrote that case law says officers who suspect a person is involved in drug activity may also reasonably suspect the person has a weapon. As for the use of a Taser and pepper spray, the judge ruled that the officers suspicions about Wright being involved in drug activity, as well as Wright not following commands to show his hands and instead moving his right hand toward the center console, justified the force, the judge wrote. Wright told officers at the scene afterward that he was reaching for a cellphone, but later claimed he used the console to push himself up because his movement was restricted by the colostomy bag and the staples in his stomach, according to the opinion. Although it turned out that Mr. Wright had no weapons in the car, the Court must view this encounter from the perspective of the officers on scene at the time, and not with the benefit of hindsight, Nugent wrote. The judge also dismissed allegations that Wright was subjected to an illegal arrest, saying they had enough evidence to charge him with obstruction. He also dismissed other claims rooted in federal and state laws. Euclid police captured Wrights arrest on body camera footage, which Wrights attorneys released when they filed suit (you can view the footage above). After the encounter, police took Wright to Euclid Hospital but he refused medical treatment, a police report stated. Wright was charged with resisting arrest, obstructing official business and criminal trespassing, along with other traffic violations. The charges were dropped in June 2017. Wrights attorneys Sarah Gelsomino and Jacqueline Greene said in a statement that this decision gives license to police to detain and brutalize people, in particular people of color, predicated only on baseless suspicion of drug activity. They said they intend to appeal the decision. The Euclid police in this case fabricated a pretext to follow, detain, and attack Lamar Wright, who was not committing any crime nor in possession of any drugs, the lawyers said. This kind of aggressive and repressive policing so often leads to civilians getting hurt and killed. An attorney representing the city of Euclid declined comment and said the ruling speaks for itself. If you would like to comment on this story, please visit Wednesdays crime and courts comments section. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A judge in Cuyahoga County can decide whether a former Cleveland death-row inmate released from prison in 2009 was wrongfully imprisoned, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled Wednesday. The court rejected an argument by Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael OMalleys office that Common Pleas Court Judge Michael Russo had no jurisdiction to hear Joseph DAmbrosios request to be declared wrongfully imprisoned for the two decades he spent in prison on a 1989 conviction in the death of Tony Klann. Such a declaration would open the door for DAmbrosio to receive money from the states Court of Claims. In the per curiam opinion, the court noted that OMalleys office made a compelling argument that DAmbrosio lacked the ability to pursue his claim, but Russo has the ability to make that decision, the court found. Chief Justice Maureen OConnor and justices Judith French, Patrick Fischer, Patrick DeWine, and Melody Stewart joined the opinion. Justice Sharon Kennedy concurred in judgment only, and Justice Michael Donnelly, a former Common Pleas judge alongside Russo, did not participate in the case. The ruling marks another turn in a protracted legal battle. DAmbrosio was released from prison in 2009, three years after a federal judge overturned his conviction and found that prosecutors, including now-retired Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Carmen Marino, withheld 10 key pieces of evidence that might have led to a jury finding DAmbrosio not guilty at trial. Common Pleas Court Judge Joan Synenberg dismissed all charges against DAmbrosio the following year. Klanns body was found floating in Doan Brook in what is now Clevelands Rockefeller Park. His throat had been slit. Prosecutors had argued that DAmbrosio and two other men -- Thomas Michael Keenan and Edward Espinoza, kidnapped Klann off the street, drove him to the creek and slit his throat with a bowie knife. Espinoza cut a deal with prosecutors and testified against DAmbrosio and Keenan, who were convicted and sentenced to death. Keenans conviction was also overturned for the same reason as DAmbrosios. Keenan in 2016 pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary and other charges, was sentenced to time served, and was released from prison. DAmbrosio has maintained his innocence in the killing, but prosecutors insist that he participated in Klanns kidnapping. The case was featured in a 2014 CNN documentary. To comment on this story, please visit Wednesdays crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A 32-year-old man attacked a security guard at a McDonalds before the guard pepper-sprayed and fatally shot the man late Tuesday on Clevelands East Side, police said. Investigators determined Andre R. Foster attacked the security guard shortly before the shooting about 9 p.m. at the fast-food restaurant on St. Clair Avenue near East 152nd Street, police said. Foster, of Cleveland, was pronounced dead at the scene. Foster was involved in an earlier confrontation with the 57-year-old security guard, police said. He left the restaurant for a bit, but returned with a second man. Foster then threatened patrons before he charged at the 57-year-old security guard, police said. The guard first pepper-sprayed Foster, then pulled out his gun and shot him, police said. Detectives questioned the security guard at the scene. They also arrested the man who came to the restaurant with Foster. Investigators have not said whether anyone will be charged in connection with the fatal shooting. Police said late Tuesday that they would review surveillance video to determine exactly what happened. Police cars and an ambulance surrounded the McDonalds for several hours after the shooting. Police taped off the entire parking lot as they investigated inside and outside the building. To comment on this story, visit Wednesdays crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio Two East Cleveland men are charged in the killing of a man who died five days after he was shot in the head outside a Cleveland apartment complex. Antonio Tyler and Rayvon Hill, both 30 years old, are each charged with murder in the April 30 shooting that critically injured Mattayo Heard. Heard, 23, died of complications from a gunshot wound Sunday at MetroHealth, the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiners Office said. Court records do not specify who shot Heard outside the Lakeshore Beach Apartments on Lakeshore Boulevard near East 156th Street. Tyler and Hill are each accused of participating in a shootout that led to Heards death. Detectives used video evidence, including cellphone video from a witness, and Tylers own statements to identify the suspects, court records say. Cleveland police officers arrested Tyler the day of the shooting on suspicion of drug trafficking. Tyler let the officers search his car after he told them he needed to go pick up his daughter, and the officers found crack-cocaine and bullets in the car, a police report says. Tyler is charged with aggravated trafficking in drugs, a fifth-degree felony, in that case. He is currently being held in the Cuyahoga County Jail on $5,000 bond. Hill is not in custody, but a warrant was issued Tuesday for his arrest. Tyler and Hill are the second and third suspects to be charged in connection with the shootout. A Cleveland man was arrested after he drove Heard to a hospital for treatment, police said. James W. Harrison, 33, is charged with felonious assault in the case, and is being held in the Cuyahoga County Jail on $100,000 bond, court records say. Investigators have not said why the two groups argued outside the apartment complex. Police reports say the groups had previous confrontations, but do not offer any other details. Cellphone video of the incident showed a man sucker-punch another man during the argument. Harrison then pulled out a gun and fired several shots into the air, police reports say. The gun briefly jammed. Harrison then aimed and fired at the crowd of people fighting, police reports say. Harrison later told investigators that he was visiting the SUVs driver at the apartment complex when the fight broke out. He said he tried to break up the fight before he and Heard got into a Chrysler Sebring and heard gunshots, police reports say. Harrison drove Heard to Euclid Hospital for treatment. Heard was later flown by helicopter to MetroHealth, where he died five days later. Cleveland police officers found Harrison sitting beside the Chrysler outside the Euclid Hospital emergency room. His pants were covered in blood, and he told the officers that he witnessed the shooting, police reports say. Officers found a handgun with an empty magazine inside the Chrysler, police reports say. To comment on this story, visit Tuesdays crime and courts comments page. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Its yet to be determined if Vladimir Putin will be able to help President Trump win Ohio in 2020. But its unlikely Gerry Mander will help Republicans win congressional districts unfairly. A three-judge federal court in Cincinnati has ruled Ohios gratuitously gerrymandered congressional district map unconstitutional, and to be redrawn in time for the 2020 election. Cleveland.coms Rich Exner reported the judges wrote that they "are convinced by the evidence that this partisan gerrymander was intentional and effective and that no legitimate justification accounts for its extremity. The 2012 map dilutes the votes of Democratic voters by packing and cracking them into districts that are so skewed toward one party that the electoral outcome is predetermined. We conclude that the map unconstitutionally burdens associated rights by making it more difficult for voters and certain organizations to advance their aims, be they pro-Democratic or pro- democracy. Ohio must submit to the court a plan to redraw the districts equitably by June of this year, or the court may redraw the districts itself. The last time the Republican controlled Ohio Legislature redrew the district map was in 2011. With their crayons, they constructed 12 districts they could color in Republican red, leaving just 4 districts to be colored Democratic Blue. Nationally, the wackiest gerrymandered district that has gotten the most attention is the Daffy Duck-shaped 4th District of Republican Rep. Jim-Jacketless-Jordan, founder of the gridlock producing Freedom Caucus. On the Democrat side, arguably the most oddly-shaped Ohio district is the 9th, now represented by Marcy Kaptur. The 2011 Republican district redraw effectively erased Dennis Kucinich from congress by reshaping the district he served for multiple terms, pitting him against Rep. Kaptur. Cuyahoga and Summit counties are broken up into 4 districts. Before the federal court ruling, Ohio voters ruled in the 2018 election against gerrymandering. By an overwhelming margin, voters passed Issue 1, approving a constitutional amendment that would prohibit gerrymandering. Fridays ruling by the federal court was on a case brought by the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio on behalf of the League of Women Voters. The intent of bringing the case was to speed up the process of redrawing the map which voters mandated in the 2018 election. This ruling is a victory for every Oho voter, because a fair congressional map before 2020 means a stronger democracy for the Buckeye State," Rich Exner quoted ACLU of Ohio executive director Jen Miller in his Cleveland.com story. The three Judge panel and its unanimous ruling reflected the bipartisanship the composition of the district map should. Two of the Judges were appointed by Presidents Clinton and Obama, a third was appointed by President George W. Bush. The court is based in Republican stronghold Hamilton County, Ohio. For good governance, its best that members of congress are elected in districts that are truly representative of the region they are located in and the voters who live there. Ideally, those districts would also reflect political party diversity. BRATENAHL, Ohio -- An income tax increase in Bratenahl passed with 64 percent of the vote, according to unofficial results from the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections. The village of Bratenahl asked voters to raise income taxes from 1.5 percent to 2 percent on Tuesday a move the villages mayor attributes in part to state cuts. Bratenahls income tax rate has not changed since the 1980s, Bratenahl Mayor John Licastro said. The proposed tax increase would generate $630,000 annually, which would only go toward police, fire and EMS expenses and to help replace village vehicles. Bratenahl lost about $400,000 annually with the elimination of the states estate tax and cuts to the local government fund, which contributed to the villages decision to ask voters for the tax increase, Licastro said. Another factor? The village in recent years also has been off in its estimated income tax income, and has received far less than it anticipated. For residents who work outside the city, the increase isnt as big as it seems. Heres why: CLEVELAND, Ohio -- For 10 years, the Patient Experience Empathy + Innovation Summit has taught the importance of empathy in a health care climate increasingly based on technology. This year, the summit theme is Looking Back, Leaping Forward, highlighting a decade of innovative advancements that put the patient first, and exploring the future of patient-centered care. Last years summit attracted about 2,000 attendees from around the world. This years summit is Monday through Wednesday, May 13 to 15, at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland. The Clinic is co-sponsoring the event with global health information company HIMSS. The patient experience summit will focus on how far the field of patient experience has come, and where it needs to go, said Dr. Adrienne Boissy, chief experience officer at the Cleveland Clinic. She is co-chair of the event with executive chief nursing officer Kelly Hancock. We have accomplished a lot in moving the dialogue to best practices, Boissy said. Featured topics will include innovation, burnout, communication, leadership, design thinking and more. Panelists and guest speakers will discuss ways to empower patients, evolving AI and VR technology, real-world challenges and more. Registration is open; follow this link to sign up. HUDSON, Ohio With all precincts reporting, Hudson voters narrowly rejected an advisory vote on proposed downtown development, 52 percent to 48 percent. Issue 11 asked voters whether the city should continue with the public-private redevelopment of the Downtown Phase II area. The advisory election means the outcome of the vote is non-binding and subject to final approval by the Architectural and Historic Board of Review and City Council. The proposal called for 138,000-square-feet of office space, more than 70 town homes, 50 condominiums above businesses and a 250- to 300-space parking deck, according to the city. Want more Akron news? Sign up for cleveland.coms Rubber City Daily, an email newsletter delivered at 5:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. CLEVELAND, Ohio A Cuyahoga County Jail officer was arrested Wednesday at the jail by drug investigators, an official said. County spokeswoman Mary Louise Madigan said the officer was arrested about 1 p.m. at the jail. Cuyahoga County Sheriffs Narcotics Division deputies made the arrest, Madigan said. Madigan said no other information could be immediately released, including the name of the officer and any charges. Ohio Patrolmens Benevolent Association attorney Adam Chaloupka declined comment. Several other investigations have been launched into drugs getting into the jail. Investigators in January found drugs inside the cell of a 44-year-old inmate who survived an overdose. Two former jail officers ended up serving prison time for separate cases of drug trafficking in recent years. Former corrections officer Kamara Austin, 43, was sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty to trying to smuggle 16 grams of heroin and pills in March 2017 into the jail for an accused rapist. Brian Salters was sentenced to 30 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges that accused him of selling heroin, crack cocaine, ecstasy, pills and marijuana at a Cleveland liquor store in April 2017. The arrest comes during a time of intense scrutiny at the jail over conditions, including excessive uses-of-force by officers on inmates. The Ohio Attorney Generals Office is conducting an on-going investigation into the jail that has so far landed several indictments. Six corrections officers are charged in connection with attacks on inmates and one is accused of ignoring a dying inmate. The jails former warden, who is now the associate warden, and the former jail director have also been charged in the investigation. ST. LOUIS, Missouri The demise this week of a proposed merger of the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County also ends plans to replace the regions 55 police departments with one metro police force. Ironically, the idea of a unified police department intrigued some in the African-American community, whose leadership otherwise opposed the proposed merger in part because of fears of losing black political influence. So, as part of Cleveland 2030, A Way Forward, cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer today examine the potential advantages of a metro police department and how Metro St. Louis would have been formed and financed such a department. Cleveland 2030 is part of Cleveland Connects, a series of civic dialogues sponsored by PNC Bank since 2012. How would the unified department have been formed? Better Together, the nonprofit leading the campaign for a merger, envisioned a Metro St. Louis government that would have taken control of all economic development efforts and all policing in the region. That would have entailed combining all of the economic development and police departments serving the regions 88 cities and villages, which the merger proposal had called for becoming semi-autonomous municipal districts. The metro police department, serving 1.3 million people, would have been financed with a share of the sales taxes that are now collected and spent by the regions individual suburbs. What were the potential advantages of a unified police force? Among the advantages cited by Better Together and others included improved efficiency, better training and uniform standards. Research commissioned by Better Together found that training, equipment and compensation varies greatly among the 55 departments, and that the region relies on 21 separate and uncoordinated emergency-dispatch systems. Fragmentation undermines effective policing, creates inefficiencies, and contributes to a lack of a coordinated regional response, a Better Together task force reported as part of its recommendation for the merger. What about a unified police force appealed to some African Americans? Some African-American leaders and other merger proponents believed a metro police force could have brought greater racial sensitivity to a largely segregated region where policing has become a volatile issue. As an example, they pointed to the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson, where in 2014 a white officer fatally shot 18-year-old Michael Brown, an unarmed, African American following an altercation. The officer was investigated for his conduct, but was found to have not violated Browns civil rights. This resulted in rioting in Ferguson and brought the suburbs police department under intense scrutiny. A subsequent Justice Department investigation found a lot to criticize, including a tendency among Ferguson officers to view the African-American community less as constituents to be protected than as potential offenders and sources of revenue. Lewis Reed, an African-American and president of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen, opposed the proposed merger but saw potential in a unified police department. Reed told cleveland.com that a larger, centralized department could have benefitted the regions minority community if it had resulted in better, more comprehensive policies related to use of force and civilian oversight. The city hall, municipal court and police department for tiny Warson Woods, Missouri, is located in the rear of a strip mall. Did some people disagree with that assessment? Yes. Among them was Ferguson Mayor James Knowles, who was in office during the Brown shooting and has been re-elected since. Knowles disputed the Justice Departments description of his police force. He said he felt his city had become a scapegoat for all manner of frustrations felt across the country. I tell people all the time, the sins of St. Louis played out on our streets, Knowles said. Another skeptic was Gene Tisius, a detective with the tiny Warson Woods Police Department. Tisius said his suburban department and those of two neighboring communities generally have six officers on duty at a given time. He suspected the same geographic area would be covered by a single officer under a metro department. A lot of municipalities provide extra services that St. Louis City and St. Louis County dont do because they dont have the resources, they dont have the manpower, he said. We investigate everything. We investigate misdemeanors. St. Louis City dont investigate misdemeanors. St. Louis County dont investigate misdemeanors. Knowles, who sits on the board of the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis, which opposed the merger, cited similar concerns. For one, he didnt see how a metro police department could assimilate the regions 1,900 officers and standardize their pay scales. So, somebodys taking a pay cut and somebodys getting a pay raise, he said. Otherwise, theres no way they can afford this. What was the response to the criticism? Assimilation would have been an issue, said Marius Johnson-Malone, deputy director of community-based studies at Better Together. The plan was for officers to join the merged department with their same rank, pay and benefits, and for leadership to figure out how to equalize compensation going forward. Regardless of the challenges, Rick Rosenfeld, professor of criminology and criminal justice at the University of Missouri St. Louis, said a unified police force would have addressed the dysfunction he sees in the Ferguson department. Dysfunction also exists in many of the other police departments serving the northern half of the county, where many of the residents are poor and African American, he said in an interview with cleveland.com. The larger and better trained St. Louis County Police Department, on the other hand, is strong, Rosenfeld said. And in places where county officers have taken over for a local department, service has improved. In answer to Tisius concerns, Rosenfeld, acknowledged that relatively affluent suburbs such as Warson Woods may have relatively more officers on the street than other communities. But to say that number would decline after a merger is an assumption that needs to be evaluated, he said. The county took over police responsibilities for the predominantly black City of Jennings, Rosenfeld noted, and the number of officers on duty did not decline. Nancy Rice, executive director of Better Together, rejected the idea that a larger department would have been less sensitive or less effective than a small, municipal department. I mean, the best police department possibly on earth is New York Citys, and they have 30,000 or more employees, she said. Could someone resurrect the idea of a unified police department? Yes. Just days after pulling the plug on putting their merger proposal before statewide voters in November 2020, Better Together and its supporters began talking about the possibility of waging another campaign. In an interview this week, Arindam Kar, a local attorney who helped draw up the merger recommendations, acknowledged the shortcomings of the last campaign. But Kar said one of the components that he would most like to see in a future effort is police reform. Read more from Cleveland 2030, A Way Forward https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/african-american-leaders-had-little-faith-in-st-louis-merger-proposal-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html https://expo.cleveland.com/news/g66l-2019/05/2bc54825cf42/cleveland-and-st-louis-two-rust-belt-cities-with-a-lot-in-common-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/failed-st-louis-merger-proposal-offers-lessons-to-greater-cleveland-partnership-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/what-a-merged-st-louis-would-have-looked-like-and-why-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/combine-police-departments-to-help-fight-crime-st-louis-merger-advocates-say-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio State University appointed a leader for its newly-created Office of Institutional Equity, which handles Title IX complaints. Katherine Lasher, who at Central Michigan University coordinates Title IX and affirmative action, will start as associate vice president for the office on Aug. 1. OSU announced the new central Office of Institutional Equity, which fields sexual and gender-based discrimination and harassment problems, last year. The university completely overhauled how it handles these claims after an review of its procedures. Each Ohio university must handle Title IX claims, but each is allowed to do it differently to accommodate the campuss climate and student population. By creating a central office, OSU hopes to cut down on the complications that can come with filing a Title IX complaint, especially at the states largest university. "Intake officers can help students, faculty and staff understand their rights and guide them to resources. Lasher, a lawyer, was a leader at a similar office at Central Michigan, developing the schools first comprehensive sexual misconduct policy and leading an initiative requiring consent and bystander intervention training for first year students. Ohio State is one of this nations great land-grant universities, and I look forward to collaborating with students, faculty and staff to advance this offices important mission, Lasher, a graduate of the University of Cincinnatis law school, said in a press release. I am pleased to be returning to my home state to continue my work to ensure equitable treatment for all. PARMA, Ohio -- Parma voters upheld the citys pit bull ban on Tuesday night, but the vote was so close it could trigger an automatic recount. The ordinance that would have lifted the citys ban, in place since 1987, failed 50.09 percent to 49.91 percent, according to unofficial results. Thats far below the .5 percent requirement to trigger an automatic recount. This total does not necessarily include all mail-in or provisional ballots, which could change the margin and eliminate the need for a recount. Of 51,000 dogs registered in Cuyahoga County, about 1,785 are pit bulls. The term pit bull refers to mixes of breeds including the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the Bull Terrier. Pit bull breeds are still barred in other Ohio cities, such as in Warrensville Heights, although a wave of municipalities including Rocky River, Lakewood and Garfield Heights recently lifted their bans. BROOKLYN, Ohio -- Brooklyn schools will receive the new money officials say the district needs to offset state cuts, after two previous proposed increases failed. The measure passed by 53 to 47 percent, or about 97 votes, according to unofficial results. The district claims it lost more than $14 million from the phase-out of the statewide Tangible Personal Property Tax Reimbursement. The 6.2-mill tax is first due in 2020. The measure will cost the owner of a $100,000 home about $241.50 a year. Without the new money from the tax increase, the districts superintendent claimed the district would run out of money by end of fiscal year 2021. That would likely have meant cuts to district offerings, according to previous cleveland.com reporting. About 1,243 students are enrolled in Brooklyn City Schools, according to the districts latest state report card. It received a C grade. The district spends about $9,833 per pupil, according to the scorecard. Results for the past proposed tax increases were: May 2017: A .5 mills tax increase failed by 90 votes, or 47.5 percent for and 52.5 percent against. The money would have paid for capital improvements to the district, with a focus on the high school building. (Read more) November 2018: A 6.9-mill tax increase failed 52 to 48 percent. (Read more) ST. LOUIS, Missouri St. Louis civic leaders desperate to recharge their regions stagnant economy had hoped Jan. 1, 2023 would become a red-letter date in history, the day a transformative Metro St. Louis government would take office. But those hopes died Monday, when the nonprofit Better Together abruptly abandoned a lengthy and costly campaign to merge the City of St. Louis and neighboring St. Louis County, and give the Metro St. Louis government domain over the regions 1.3 million residents. In todays installment of Cleveland 2030: A Way Forward, cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer look at the existing structure of the St. Louis regions many governments and what a Metro St. Louis government would have looked like and might have done for the region. Cleveland 2030 is part of Cleveland Connects, a series of civic dialogues sponsored by PNC Bank since 2012. How is todays St. Louis government structured? Citywide voters elect a mayor and a president of their legislative body, known in St. Louis as a board of aldermen. They also elect a comptroller, treasurer, circuit attorney, sheriff, recorder of deeds, collector of revenue and license collector. Voters in each of 28 wards elect representatives to the St. Louis Board of Aldermen. What does St. Louis Countys government look like? Countywide voters elect a county executive, prosecutor and assessor. Voters in each of seven districts elect representatives to a legislative body known as the St. Louis County Council. What do the suburban governments look like? The 88 suburbs include cities, towns and villages. Voters in the cities and towns elect a mayor and boards of aldermen. Village voters elect boards of trustees. The region has nearly 700 elected officials, counting those in the City of St. Louis. Of the 571 aldermen, 196 represent districts with fewer than 500 people. What would Metro St. Louis have looked like? As envisioned by Better Together, voters in what are now the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County would have elected a Metro St. Louis mayor as well as a prosecutor and assessor. The mayor would have appointed deputy mayors to oversee four departments - community engagement and equity, economic development and innovation, public health and safety, and community development and housing. The administration of the metro mayor would have been in charge of economic development for the region and would have created a metro police force to replace the City of St. Louis Police Department, the St. Louis Count Police Department and more than 50 smaller departments now serving most of the 88 suburbs. Merger advocates had structured the metro government to eliminate costly redundancies and the unhealthy competition for development inherent in the regions fragmented political landscape, one strikingly similar to the one in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. They also had envisioned Metro St. Louis becoming an economic powerhouse that would have been able to speak for the region and benefit from being one of the nations 10 most populous cities. Would the metro government have had a legislative body? Yes. Voters in each of 33 districts would have elected representatives to a metro council. Council members would have elected their leaders. Each council member would have had at least two staff members to assist with constituent service and policy research. Why so many council members? Each council person would have represented about 39,000 people, or slightly more than the average legislative district in the state. Better Together said the large number of council members would have encouraged council members to form coalitions and give minorities a greater voice. The merger proposal collapsed in part because African-American leaders feared losing black political influence under a centralized government. What would have happened to the 88 municipalities? They would have become semi-autonomous municipal districts of Metro St. Louis, though some likely would have ceased to exist or merged with other districts because of the loss of tax revenues to the metro government. The city of Florissant is the largest municipality with about 57,000 people. The smallest is the village of Champ with 13 people. All the municipalities regardless of size have taxing authority, but would have been forced to share sales taxes with the metro government. Municipalities that chose to remain as municipal districts would have maintained their elected governments. They could have continued to collect property taxes and utility taxes and used them to provide limited services, such as trash collection and recreation. Sales taxes now collected by the municipalities would have gone to the metro government with some of the proceeds returned to the municipal districts to meet debt obligations and help pay for services the county doesnt provide. The rest of the money would have been used by Metro St. Louis to serve the entire region. What would have happened to the municipal courts? The nearly 80 municipal courts that now serve the region would have been combined into one court. Critics have contended that the municipal courts are frequently and improperly used as revenue generators for their host cities. Similar criticisms have been leveled against mayors courts in Cuyahoga County and elsewhere in Ohio. Would schools have been included in the merger? No. The school districts across the region would have remained affiliated with the municipal districts and funded by the individual districts property taxes . How about fire districts? Fire districts would have remained in the control of their municipal districts. The fire department that serves the city of St. Louis would have become a fire district. Read more from the Cleveland 2030, A Way Forward https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/will-st-louis-help-cleveland-see-a-way-forward.html https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/combine-police-departments-to-help-fight-crime-st-louis-merger-advocates-say-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/african-american-leaders-had-little-faith-in-st-louis-merger-proposal-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html https://expo.cleveland.com/news/g66l-2019/05/2bc54825cf42/cleveland-and-st-louis-two-rust-belt-cities-with-a-lot-in-common-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html https://www.cleveland.com/news/2019/05/failed-st-louis-merger-proposal-offers-lessons-to-greater-cleveland-partnership-cleveland-2030-a-way-forward.html Rotunda Rumblings On the cutting room floor: Supporters of Ohios $40 million-a-year film tax credit hope it will be added to the state budget, after Ohio House Republican leadership axed the 10-year-old program to pay for proposed income tax cuts. Supporters of the program say the film and TV production industry provide jobs and contribute to the economy, cleveland.coms Laura Hancock writes. More profits for FirstEnergy? State rules to prevent significantly excessive profits by FirstEnergy and other Ohio utilities would be loosened by language slipped into Ohios massive two-year budget bill,writes cleveland.coms Jeremy Pelzer. If passed, the Akron-based utility would stand to make more money from ratepayers, rather than having to issue refunds to more than a million customers in northeast and north-central Ohio. Smoke alarm: Although Gov. Mike DeWine wants to move the age when people can get nicotine products from 18 to 21, Wendy Hyde of the Preventing Tobacco Addiction Foundation said the proposal lacks adequate enforcement. She asked the House Finance Committee Tuesday to change the budget provision to: Allow local health departments to educate retailers, conduct unannounced visits and enforce 21-year-old sales through civil, not criminal law; penalize retailers instead of youth since studies show youth penalties are ineffective; and require retailers to obtain licenses to sell vaping and other tobacco products. On the clock: By Pennsylvania standards, Ohio lawmakers have plenty of time between now and June 14 to draw a new congressional district map and get it back to federal court for approval. The court has given Ohio nearly twice the time that was allotted to Pennsylvania. And Pa. pulled off an election with new maps within three months, cleveland.coms Rich Exner details. The question in Ohio is whether the state will get to work on new maps while its appeal is pending, or take a wait-and-see approach, increasing the chance that the court will create a new map. Next step: The court is giving the plaintiffs until noon Thursday to respond to the states request to put a hold on the order to redraw the congressional districts. Raking in the cash: The state took in more than $53 million in taxes and fees last month from Ohios 11 casinos and racinos. Revenue reports released Tuesday by the states lottery and casino commissions showed $160.2 million in revenue, down 1.1 percent from April last year,Exner reports. This is the money kept after paying out winnings. The state gets about a third of that in fees and taxes. Free offer: If you havent signed up yet for Project Text, heres your chance to do it for free. For the month of May, youll get behind the scenes insights and observations via text messages from the reporting team that produces Capitol Letter. No obligation and no credit card needed. After that, you can decide whether to subscribe for $3.99 a month. You can sign up for the free trial here. And if youre interested in other exclusive texts on subjects like the Browns, Buckeyes and even beer, theres more info here. No holds Barred: Steve Dettelbach, former U.S. Attorney and Ohio Attorney General candidate, was one of several Ohioans who signed a letter of disagreement with U.S. Attorney General William Barr. The hundreds of former Justice Department employees who signed the letter disagree with Barrs claims that there isnt enough evidence to try President Donald Trump on obstruction of justice charges, cleveland.coms Eric Heisig reports. But corporations are people, right? Heisig sums up this interesting court decision well: A federal judge in Ohio said Tuesday that he would not allow Lake Erie yes, the body of water to participate in a lawsuit filed to challenge a law Toledo residents passed to protect the lakes ecosystem. Man of steel: Niles-area Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan wants Mahoning, Trumbull, Mercer and Lawrence counties on the Ohio/Pennsylvania border to be designated a Steel Valley National Heritage Area that would preserve and promote the regions steel making history. The story of this region is the story of America and it deserves to be told, said Ryan, who teamed up with Pennsylvania Republican Rep. Mike Kelly on legislation. Two of the nations 55 national heritage areas are in Ohio: the Ohio & Erie National Heritage Canalway and the National Aviation Heritage Area. Ohio on the mind: Presidential hopeful Elizabeth Warren, a Democratic senator from Massachusetts, is making her Ohio debut as a 2020 candidate this weekend. On Friday, Warren will hold a 3:15 p.m. meet and greet in Chillicothe at AMVETS Post 4 and a town hall at 6:45 p.m. town hall in Columbus at Starling K8. Warren will hold another town hall at 11:30 a.m. in Cincinnati on Saturday at Bogarts. Everyone gets a gold star: The House is attempting to change how schools are graded in the state report cards, and the result is that fewer schools would be listed as failing, the Dispatchs Jim Siegel reports. The current report card gives a letter grade on six areas including test scores and graduation rates. In the House proposal, which is in the budget bill, schools would be graded either on test scores or progress over a school year, whichever is higher. Catching up to Ohio: Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed a bill Tuesday that prohibits abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can be about six weeks into a pregnancy, the Associated Press reports. Kemps signature comes after Gov. Mike DeWines signature on a similar bill last month. On the air: Americans for Prosperitys Ohio chapter has purchased $62,000 worth of radio ads against House Bill 6, which would abolish Ohios green-energy mandates in favor of subsidies to nuclear power and other clean energy generators, according to Micah Derry, AFPs Ohio director. The four-day ad buy began Monday in Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus, Derry said. Armpit apology: Stephen Moore authored a column in the Cincinnati Enquirer on Tuesday to apologize for describing Cleveland and Cincinnati as armpits in a speech that helped sink his nomination to the Federal Reserve Board. He said his put downs were tongue-in-cheek, and the two cities are doing better than his native Chicago and shattering economic vitality records because of President Trumps economic policies and the shale oil and gas revolution. Ohio is no armpit these days, he wrote. Too many zeros: In Tuesdays Capitol Letter, we reported the amount of money then-Sen. Gayle Manning received from the Ohio Chamber of Commerce from attending the Policy Conference at Salt Fork. The correct amount is $69, not $6,900. Full Disclosure Five things we learned from the April 9, 2018 ethics disclosure from state Rep. Catherine Ingram, a Cincinnati Democrat. 1. In addition to her $60,584 legislative salary in 2017, Ingram received $10,000 to $24,999 in Social Security benefits, as well as $1,000 to $9,999 each from a Northern Trust Co. pension, rent payments, and an annuity. 2. She rents out a single-family home that she owns in Cincinnatis Mt. Auburn neighborhood. 3. At some time during 2017, she owed more than $1,000 to Amazon, Macys, Fingerhut, Brandsource and several banks. 4. The Ohio House paid her $3,822 in 2017 for travel between her home and Columbus. 5. She holds a real-estate license and is a notary public. On the Move Izzi Levy, who worked as press secretary for U.S. Sen. Sherrod Browns reelection campaign, is now deputy press secretary for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. Kelly Carey has been hired as director of policy and public affairs for the Ohio Association of Community Health Centers. Carey previously worked as chief of legislation and communications for the law firm of Carpenter Lipps & Leland. Birthdays Ex-U.S. Rep. Jim Traficant (1941-2014) Straight From The Source It sure would be nice to be able to vote in a party primary today if our party wasnt discontinued by the state. -From the Twitter account of the Ohio Green Party, which lost its ballot access because its 2018 gubernatorial candidate didnt get the required 3 percent of the vote. Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. If you do not already subscribe, you can sign up here to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free. COLUMBUS, Ohio- Ohio Attorney General Yost announced Wednesday he joined a bipartisan coalition that is urging Congress to pass legislation that would give marijuana businesses in states where its legal access to the federal banking system. The 2016 law that legalized medical marijuana in Ohio exempts banks, credit unions and other financial institutions from the states criminal laws if theyre providing services to a licensed cannabis business. However, federal regulators prohibit financial institutions from providing services to the businesses. Even if a bank has an Ohio charter, its likely insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and regulated by the federal government. Ohio dispensaries, grow operations, testing labs and processors largely do business with cash. When a business is dealing strictly in cash, theyre inviting a whole host of problems, Yost, a Republican, said in a statement. No legal business should have to operate in a manner that provides little to no security in their financial transactions. The U.S. House Financial Services Committee approved House Resolution 1595, the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act. Its now awaiting a vote by the full House. Yost joins 37 other state and territorial attorneys general who are members of the National Association of Attorneys General. The organization is endorsing the legislation as an official policy position. Thats unusual since the group endorses fewer than a dozen policies a year. Other members of the coalition: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Guam, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, the Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. COLUMBUS, Ohio The Ohio Senate passed a measure Wednesday afternoon that would add Broadway shows to the list of productions that can qualify for the states Motion Picture Tax Credit. Senate Bill 37, which passed the Senate unanimously, would keep the annual credit at the existing level of $40 million a year. It now heads to the Ohio House, where last week, GOP leadership eliminated the 10-year-old credit in an early version of the states operating budget -- creating a conflict between the two chambers. SB 37, sponsored by Canton Republican Sen. Kirk Schuring, alters how the money is awarded. Instead of one round of funding, there would be two, $20 million rounds. SB 37 would put new requirements on how the state decides which projects get the 30 percent credit, including the extent they provide new jobs and support a permanent Ohio workforce by adding payroll for Ohio employees in the film and theater industries. Priority would be given to television series and miniseries, since a long-term commitment is typically associated with such productions. After creating a list, tax credits would be given by ranking starting with those that promised the greatest economic impact and workforce development, the bill states. Not everyone is a fan of the tax credit. Researchers with left-leaning Policy Matters Ohio have studied the credit in Ohio and other states and concluded that only a few locations dominate the film and television industry. The amount of investment Ohio would have to make to get noticed by Hollywood or Broadway would be huge. Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder, a Perry County Republican, wants Ohioans to see income tax cuts in the two-year state operating budget that lawmakers are working on, expected to pass in June. To pay for the tax cuts, Householder proposed slashing other state spending, including eliminating the film tax credit. But Schuring told colleagues on the Senate floor his bill improves how the credit is used. He noted that the productions help the local economy; a 2015 Cleveland State University study found for every $1 the state spends on the credit, $2.01 is generated through spending at local restaurants and bars, in clothing, construction materials and other items. It will be more efficient, more effective and will foster a healthier return on investment through economic growth and the new state local and tax dollars that will be generated from it," he said. In the House, lawmakers such as Rep. Tom Patton, a Strongsville Republican, are trying to convince Householder that the credit needs to be preserved. Patton said Tuesday that, in fact, he thinks it should go up to $100 million a year. CLEVELAND, Ohio Following a Wednesday tweet from President Donald Trump that the recently shuttered plant in Lordstown had been sold, General Motors confirmed it was in discussions with Cincinnati-based electric truck manufacturer Workhorse to sell the facility. Once the home of the Chevrolet Cruze, GM closed the Lordstown plant in March, laying off more than 1,400 workers, leaving the future of the community in jeopardy. GMs discussions with Workhorse are still in the early stages, but a representative from Workhorse said a deal could bring back hundreds of jobs to the plant. We havent put a number out there and Id say right now preliminarily were looking in the hundreds, said Tom Colton, Workhorse head of industrial relations. GM estimated 400 jobs might return to the factory. Should a sale go through, a new company would be spun off to maintain the plant and the intellectual property managed there, with Workhorse owning a minority stake. The preliminary plan for the new company would be to assemble an electric pickup truck at the Lordstown facility, though negotiations with GM are still in the early stages. Colton said discussions havent reached a point regarding hiring yet, but their intention is to re-hire some of the laid off GM workers. Its our intention to do right by them, and were considering those types of factors, Colton said. The news of the potential sale broke just before noon when Trump tweeted out that a sale was happening, though it made Lordstowns reopening seem much more imminent. GREAT NEWS FOR OHIO! Just spoke to Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, who informed me that, subject to a UAW agreement etc., GM will be selling their beautiful Lordstown Plant to Workhorse, where they plan to build Electric Trucks. GM will also be spending $700,000,000 in Ohio..., Trump said in a pair of tweets. ....in 3 separate locations, creating another 450 jobs. I have been working nicely with GM to get this done. Thank you to Mary B, your GREAT Governor, and Senator Rob Portman. With all the car companies coming back, and much more, THE USA IS BOOMING! Shortly following the presidents tweet, other Ohio lawmakers began making public statements after hearing from GM CEO Mary Barra. Ohio Sen. Rob Portman tweeted thanks to Trump for bringing new production to Lordstown. I want to thank @realDonaldTrump for his help in bringing new production to #Lordstown. Im hopeful we will see the #Lordstown plant humming again. #jobs #Ohio Rob Portman (@senrobportman) May 8, 2019 A spokesman for Gov. Mike DeWine said the governor received a surprise phone call from Barra while at a TourismOhio event. During a later news conference, DeWine was much more cautious about any potential deal. He repeatedly warned that Workhorse wouldnt hire a significant number of people to work at in Lordstown unless the company lands a $6.3 billion contract to build electric trucks for the U.S. Postal Service. Workhorse is one of five finalists to win the contract to update the Postal Services fleet. As far as Lordstown, this is probably not the day to celebrate, DeWine said. Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat and frequent critic of Trumps and GMs handling of Lordstown, said he found out from the presidents tweet, though he received a call from Barra shortly after. Trumps tweet has raised expectations about jobs being created, but people want to know where the jobs are and how much they will pay, Brown said. Lordstown workers cant cash a tweet," Brown said. "They need paychecks. Rep. Tim Ryan, whose district includes Lordstown, described the news as bittersweet because it will take a while for any new company there to get up and running. He said that 3,000 union jobs have been lost over the last two years and zero will return for the foreseeable future. Its really going to take some time to get it ramped up, he said. Youve got to get the deal done, youve got to get the financing for the facility, youve got to retool the facility. Im sure thats not an easy process. Ryan, a Democrat running for president, said he likes that the Cincinnati-based startup is in the growing area of electric vehicles. He said he had been talking to GM about different opportunities, but hadnt heard about this one. GM was having lots of conversations. I was in some of those conversations. We were just trying to get something into that facility, if it wasnt going to be a GM car. Dave Green, the union president representing Lordstown workers, did not answer a phone call seeking comment. United Auto Workers Vice President Terry Dittes said GM should invest in the Lordstown plant instead of selling it. The parties regularly discuss product placement issues during National Negotiations which will begin in July of this year," Dittes said in a statement. "We will monitor this situation as it develops to determine what course of action will most benefit UAW-represented workers at General Motors. The stock for Workhorse shot up as a result of the announcement. The companys website also crashed with the increased traffic. Founded about a decade ago, the company is a direct competitor to Tesla, which planned to unveil an electric pickup truck in 2020. The company does represent something of a gamble for the area. Workhorse does not have a consumer vehicle in place, though it does have deals with UPS and FedEx for electric delivery vans. Significant gains would come, assuming the electric car industry expands, though with an administration that has little focus on green energy, meaningful support from the federal government doesnt seem likely. The fledgling tech company is also operating at a considerable loss right now, typical for a tech company but a trait that makes it more susceptible to failure. In 2018, the company brought in $763,000 in sales compared to $36.5 million in losses. The company that Trump says is buying GM Lordstown had $763k in net sales in 2018, and a $36.5m net loss, according to its latest annual report. https://t.co/ee5jflNFMc Jim Tankersley (@jimtankersley) May 8, 2019 The shuttered plant has been a political debacle for Trump, a Republican who made serious gains in the Mahoning Valley in 2016 on the promise of bringing new jobs to the area. Lordstown has publicly frustrated the president. He lashed out at Green and the union itself, blaming everything from union leadership to member dues. While likely not recouping all of the jobs lost from the GM plants closure, any sale and any jobs would be a welcome sign from the president. Democrats running for president whove visited Ohio have routinely made the plants closure an issue. A sale would not technically be bringing jobs back to the area, considering the already-steep losses, but it does give the president the ability to market his policies as a winner for the economically distressed area. Selling the Lordstown facility would also be a relief to GM, the target of ire from both Republicans and Democrats in Ohio, whove pressured the company to either resume production of some kind in Lordstown or sell the plant to someone who would. The company paired the Lordstown announcement with news that it was investing $700 million into other factories in Parma, Toledo and Moraine. It anticipated 450 jobs would be created between the three sites. Cleveland.com Washington reporter Sabrina Eaton and Columbus reporter Jeremy Pelzer contributed to this report. Memorial for Assyrian, Greek and Armenian Genocide Victims Held in Swedish Parliament A memorial to Assyrian victims of Turkish genocide, in Botkyrka, Sweden, erected on April 27, 2015. Memorial ceremony was held for the Armenian, Assyrian-Syriac and Pontic Greeks who were massacred during the First World War in the Swedish Parliament. In the event hosted by the Left Party and the Moderated (Conservative) Party, the Left Party MP Amineh Kakabaveh, The Reactive Party MP Arin Karapet, Writer RagAp Zarakolu, Rebecka on behalf of the Turabdin Committee formed by the Armenian Consul General of Armenia Alexander Arzoumanian and the Assyrian-Syriac-Chaldean organizations Barjosef made a speech. RagAp Zarakolu, a journalist-writer, said that the genocide continued after 104 years and posed a serious danger to the peoples of the Middle East. He noted that the children and grandchildren of the survivors of 1915 lived under the threat of jihadist groups such as ISIS and al-Qaeda in Syria and called for it to be sensitive to the world. Assoc. Dr. Vahagn Avedi who said he was sad repetition of the demand for Turkey to accept the genocide memorial ceremony held on April 24 every year. Avedian said, "They need to know what it is and face their own history. But so far this has not been done. In the case of the genocide in Serbia, there are some Serbian politicians who have yet to deny the genocide, although over 20 years have passed. This understanding primarily hurts the Serbian people. Nor deny to 1915 is hurting most in Turkey. " The Swedish Parliament adopted in 1915 that the events of 1915 were genocide , but the right-wing government that was at work at the time, and the coalition government formed by the Social Democrats and the Greens, refused to enact the decision. Avedian said, "The only word to explain this is hypocrisy. The issue was brought to the agenda of the parliament by the Social Democrats. They don't take the decisions they make today. The attitude of the current Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom, once the United Nations human rights officer, is quite upsetting. The government says lawyers should clarify the situation and refrain from recognizing the parliamentary decision." Two of Sweden's top two historian historians have declared that what happened in 1915 was genocide Desirre Pethrus, a Christian Democrat, said that commemoration of the victims was important and said "We, as a party, should recognize the genocide of the Swedish government. He had previously accepted parliamentary genocide. We will continue our efforts to be recognized." RTHK: Iran suspends some some parts of nuclear deal Iran has decided to suspend some of its commitments under a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with major powers abandoned by Washington last year, the foreign ministry announced on Wednesday. "The decision of the high security council to 'stop acting on some of the Islamic Republic of Iran's commitments under the JCPOA [nuclear deal] was communicated to the heads of state of the countries" still party to the deal Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, the ministry said. Iran will no longer respect limits it agreed on its enriched uranium and heavy water stocks under the deal, officials said. Iran's Supreme National Security Council said the measure was necessary to "secure its rights and bring back balance" after Washington's abandonment of the agreement exactly one year ago on May 8, 2018. "The Islamic Republic of Iran does not at the current stage consider itself committed to observing restrictions regarding storing enriched uranium stocks and heavy water stocks," the council said. "The remaining parties to the [deal] are given 60 days to implement their commitments, in particular in the fields of banking and oil," it added. This came after the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of planning "imminent" attacks on a hastily organised visit to neighbouring Iraq on Tuesday. Washington has also deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and several massive, nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the Middle East as national security adviser John Bolton warned Washington would respond with "unrelenting force" to any attack by Tehran. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif dismissed the US military deployments and stressed that Iran's actions were not in breach of the nuclear deal it signed with major powers. (AFP) This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Share Article A USAF B-52 Stratofortress bomber assigned to the 69th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron lands at Al Udeid AB, Qatar, April 8, 2018. Air National Guard photo by SSgt. Patrick Evenson. Air Force B-52s will deploy to the US Central Command area of operations along with the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in response to recent and clear indications that Iranian forces were preparing to possibly attack US forces, the Pentagon announced Tuesday. Defense officials did not clarify how many B-52s would make up the task force, or which squadron they are from, in a Tuesday statement. The White House on Sunday said the task force and carrier deployment is a message to Iran that any attack on US forces or interests would be met with unrelenting force. CENTCOM began developing a request for forces after receiving indications that Iran could attack, and it is continuing to track a number of credible threat streams coming from Iran. The Pentagon would not elaborate on the threats or how they were obtained. CENTCOM confirmed the Stratofortresses will deploy to the region in response to the threats, but declined to provide a more specific timeline. The Bomber Task Force will be tasked to protect US forces and interests in the region and to deter any aggression, according to the statement. The Abraham Lincoln was already scheduled to head to CENTCOM, and that plan was expedited by Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan in response to the commands request. The Air Force has had a constant presence of bombers, either B-52s or B-1s, deployed to Al Udeid AB, Qatar, for ongoing combat operations for nearly two decades. That ended in March, however, after B-1s returned home to Dyess AFB, Texas, following a combat deployment. Air Force Global Strike Command had said the bombers were overextended during the deployment. B-52s recently returned to Barksdale AFB, La., from a Bomber Task Force deployment to Europe. Stratofortresses from Minot AFB, N.D., are also deployed to Andersen AFB, Guam, for the Pacific continuous bomber presence. The largest businesses (those with 50 or more employees) are particularly optimistic, with 77% describing business conditions as good and only 1% saying conditions are bad. Two key survey questions showed the most confidence since Q3 2018. Fifty-six percent of small business owners describe business conditions as good, while 60% say they expect revenue to increase in the next year. The percentage of small business owners who expect revenue to decrease (6%) is at its lowest level since Q1 2018. The percentage of owners who describe business conditions as bad (5%) also was a low in the survey's history. "Businesses are feeling pretty good, the economy is doing well, and confidence is still at high levels," said Todd McCracken, president and CEO of the National Small Business Association. Small business confidence ticked up and remains at a high level, according to the latest CNBC|SurveyMonkey Small Business Survey for the second quarter. The CNBC|Survey Monkey Small Business Confidence Index reading of 59 (up from 58 in the first quarter 2019) indicates that small business owners are optimistic about the direction of their business over the next 12 months. The Small Business Confidence Index reading of 59 is three points lower than its all-time high of 62, which was recorded in both Q1 2018 and Q3 2018. The CNBC|SurveyMonkey Small Business Survey for Q2 included responses from 2,100 small business owners across the country collected between April 15 and April 22. The stock market has been riding high for most of 2019 the survey was conducted before the latest trade war headlines sent stocks into a tailspin this week. The Fed is signaling that conditions in the economy remain strong, but it has no current plans to raise rates, which could dampen enthusiasm. Still, small business confidence has not yet hit its 2018 record level. The waning benefits from the 2017 tax cuts and competition for workers are likely factors weighing on the business outlook. "Most small companies know they are temporary, and some are already getting close to beginning to phase out," McCracken said. "With a divided power in Washington, businesses know that not much is going to happen to change that. Congress has to take proactive action to make sure those tax cuts stay in place beyond the next two to three years." The percentage of small business owners who said tax policy will be a positive for their business over the next 12 months fell to 28%, the lowest level in the history of the survey. Business owners saying tax policy will be a negative for their business over the next 12 months rose from 29% to 35% in Q2. Thirty-nine percent of small business owners expect no impact from tax policy. He said the labor market is an inevitable by-product of the strong economy. "This is the nature of a strong economy when you are at full employment, this is what happens." The majority of small businesses do not expect to either increase or decrease full-time staff (63%), a number that has moved between a low of 59% in Q3 of last year, and a high of 64% last quarter. The labor market can have the biggest influence on the smallest businesses. "The unique problems businesses face are greater. Large companies have more ability to survey the marketplace and find people, but small businesses have an information gap in terms of finding employees and employees finding them, McCracken said. "A lot of small companies have to train their workers which is a big investment. If they leave in a year or six months, businesses don't get that repaid." Sixty-five percent of businesses of 50 or more employees say they expect to increase staff in the next year, versus only 19% of firms with four or fewer employees. The biggest gap exists between the smallest and largest small businesses. Among business with five to nine employees, 46% expect to increase staff; 44% of business with between 10 and 49 employees expect to add staff. The CNBC|SurveyMonkey Small Business Survey for Q2 was conducted across 2,100 small business owners between April 15 and April 22. The survey is conducted quarterly using SurveyMonkey's online platform and based on its survey methodology. Pallets of Coke-Cola cans wait to the filled at a Coco-Cola bottling plant on February 10, 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Coca-Cola struck agreements to fund health studies at several public universities that gave the beverage maker the ability to review and kill studies it didn't like, according to a new report from the University of Cambridge. Cambridge's Department of Politics and International Studies discovered Coke's demands while examining research funding agreements between private corporations and public institutions. It reviewed some 87,000 documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act. Its report, released Tuesday, said Coke retained the right to "quash studies progressing unfavorably" or "pressure researchers using the threat of termination" in at least five agreements with various academic institutions between 2015 and 2016. "It's a playbook from Big Tobacco and Big Pharma. We looked to see if this is something that can happen with Big Food," said Dr. Sarah Steele, a policy researcher from Cambridge and lead author of the study, which was published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Public Health Policy. Steele said the documents "in their nature" don't tell the whole story. For one, the documents are sprinkled with redactions. There's also no way to be certain the documents provide a complete sample of communication between Coke and the institutions. They may lack private communication that may have happened during the agreement period, such as in emails or on phone calls, she said. Steele also said there are perfectly valid reasons for a company like Coke to terminate research, such as bullying, harassment or the institution doing the research is not delivering on findings. She said the study didn't find any evidence that Coke killed any research. Still, the study may add to concerns about Coke, which has been accused of omitting the health dangers of junk food and sugary beverages in public health campaigns in other countries. "We agree research transparency and integrity are important," Coca-Cola said in a statement to CNBC. "That's why, since 2016, the Coca-Cola Company has not independently funded research on issues related to health and wellbeing in keeping with research guiding principles that have been posted publicly on our website since that time." A report published in January in the BMJ and Journal of Public Health Policy said Coke spearheaded an effort by American junk food companies, including PepsiCo, Nestle and McDonald's, to quietly shape China's nutrition policy through a nonprofit group called the International Life Sciences Institute. At the time, Coke said it supports current recommendations by the World Health Organization and other health authorities to limit intake of added sugar. They also said in 2017 they decided to stop providing 100% of the funding for any research related to well-being, either directly or through a trade group. U.S. Right to Know, a nonprofit consumer and public health research group and co-author of the study, submitted the FOIA requests relating to academics at North American institutions that received Coca-Cola funding. The institutions cited in the agreements were Louisiana State University, University of South Carolina, University of Toronto and University of Washington. The Trump administration is seeking to label the Muslim Brotherhood a foreign terrorist organization a move that would allow the U.S. to impose broad sanctions against the Islamist group, which has millions of members across the Middle East. But it could rattle U.S. relations with several allies in the region. Experts say the plan could cut funding for humanitarian programs, weaken the validity of U.S. terrorism listings, project hostility toward Muslims and play into the whims of autocratic leaders. "This would not be in the interest of the U.S., partly because I think the Muslim Brotherhood doesn't meet the criteria, and partly because I think it would cause various kinds of complications and potential problems," said Anthony Dworkin, a senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. The plan was first reported by The New York Times and confirmed by White House press secretary Sarah Sanders. Sanders told the Times, "The president has consulted with his national security team and leaders in the region who share his concern, and this designation is working its way through the internal process." The White House declined to comment for this article. A State Department spokesperson said the department "doesn't discuss deliberations or the potential deliberations of [its] designations process." The administration had weighed the idea as early as 2017 but ultimately dropped it as nonviable until President Donald Trump's April 9 meeting with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi. El-Sissi pushed the issue, according to The New York Times, and found a receptive ear. El-Sissi's government has cracked down on the group, which it views as a source of political opposition. Egypt, as well as U.S. allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have designated the Brotherhood a terrorist organization, saying the group's ideology conflicts with that of a sovereign state, making it a threat to national security. While el-Sissi was meeting with Trump, his son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner was getting pressure from the Saudis and UAE to revisit the idea, the Times reported. Several administration officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, are reportedly on board as are other Trump advisors who have long considered the group radical. Occidental Petroleum's recent jaunt to Omaha aboard a corporate jet presaged a $10 billion investment from Warren Buffett, and now the plane has traveled to the hometown of oil major Royal Dutch Shell. This comes as Occidental is trying to finalize a deal to buy Anadarko Petroleum, which has a joint venture with Shell in the Permian Basin, the engine of the U.S. shale oil boom. On Monday, Anadarko said it intends to cancel a $33 billion deal to sell its business to Chevron and instead sell its business to Occidental for $38 billion. Occidental's Gulfstream V has traveled to Rotterdam The Hague Airport in the Netherlands and was on the tarmac on Wednesday, a source told CNBC. Lithuania and the United States have signed a contract to equip Lithuanian forces with an anti-drone system. U.S. Air Force Academy cadets in the Unmanned Aerial System Operations Program familiarize themselves with quad-copter flight controls at the Cadet Field House (Picture source: US Air Force) The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense announced on April 25 that it has signed a contract with the United States to provide the Lithuanian Armed Forces with an anti-drone system. The name of the system in question has not been revealed, as well as the number of units that will be delivered. This contract, which will be fully funded by the US Department of State's security assistance program, is estimated at $ 1.3 million. Deliveries will be spread over the coming months to be finalized in mid-2020. "The Lithuanian Armed Forces will use the anti-UAV system to deal with the increasing intrusion of drones over areas where theft is prohibited," reports the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense. The system provided by the United States will act on the communication established between the drone and the ground station and the operator, in order to cut the exchange of information. This system will therefore use a scrambling technology to neutralize the drones. China posted a big miss in its overall trade surplus for April, as exports unexpectedly fell and imports surprisingly rose. The numbers came on Wednesday as the trade impasse between the U.S. and China continues to drag on. Customs data on Wednesday showed that trade surplus for April came in at $13.84 billion. That was far lower than the $35 billion economists polled by Reuters had expected, and below the $32.65 billion posted in March. Dollar-denominated exports also missed expectations in April, falling 2.7% from a year ago, according to data from the China's General Administration of Customs. Economists polled by Reuters expected an increase of 2.3% from a year earlier. However, April imports unexpectedly rose by 4% from a year ago, compared to a decline of 3.6% that economists predicted. Imports in March fell 7.6%. China's trade surplus with the U.S., meanwhile, rose to $21.01 billion in April from $20.5 billion in March, the data showed. U.S. and Chinese officials have met several times in a bid to hammer out a trade deal, but Washington said this week that tariffs on Chinese products will increase on Friday, fueling fears that negotiations could be derailed. The outlook for Chinese exports will remain challenging even if a trade deal is reached with the U.S. soon, said Julian Evans-Pritchard, senior China economist at Capital Economics. "Even if a last-minute (trade) deal is struck this week to avoid further tariffs, the downbeat prospects for global growth will probably mean that export growth remains subdued," Evans-Pritchard wrote in a note on Wednesday. Imports, however, should hold up better due to government stimulus, he added. Recent moves by Beijing such as cutting reserve requirement ratios and keeping short-term interest rates lower recently are keeping liquidity in the system, said Shaun Roache, chief economist for Asia Pacific at S&P Global Ratings. "That's a signal that the authorities are willing to simulate, and stimulate quickly, if they feel trade tensions persist," Roache told CNBC's "Street Signs." This week, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer told reporters that the U.S. will increase levies on Chinese imports on Friday. His comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump's tweeted on Sunday that current tariffs of 10% on $200 billion of Chinese goods would be raised to 25% on Friday. Trump also threatened to impose an extra 25% levy on another $325 billion of Chinese goods "shortly." The latest developments sent markets across the globe reeling, amid earlier indications and optimism that the U.S. and China were close to ending their protracted trade war. Just last month, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told The New York Times that negotiations were in the "final laps." CNBC's Eustance Huang and Reuters contributed to the report. Chinese President Xi Jinping attends the closing session of the National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing's Great Hall of the People on March 15, 2019. China has promised to take "necessary countermeasures" against the U.S. if Washington follows through on its threat to increase tariffs Friday on Chinese goods. China's Commerce Ministry said Wednesday that Beijing will retaliate if U.S. tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods are hiked to 25% from 10% as threatened by President Donald Trump on Sunday. "The escalation of trade friction is not in the interests of the people of the two countries and the people of the world," the ministry said. "The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the US tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures." A woman sorting medicine in the pharmacy of the Yueyang Hospital, part of the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, in Shanghai. Shares of a Chinese pharmaceutical firm, which admitted overstating cash holdings by $4.4 billion, have fallen by around 10% every day since the "error" was first revealed. On April 30, Kangmei Pharmaceutical, said in a filing to the market its 2017 cash position had been overstated. The stock immediately slumped 10% before the day's losses were limited by Chinese trading rules. In every subsequent trading day since the filing, and amid a wider sell-off for Chinese indexes, the firm's share price has opened for trade before immediately falling by the 10% limit before being halted. The stock is now down 25% year-to-date and it's also seen the value of its corporate bonds plummet. Company chairman and founder, Ma Xingtian, described the overstatement as an "accounting error" that had come about after rapid expansion had "led to loopholes in internal control and financial management." The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CRSC) has previously asked the company to explain why interest accruing from its stated cash holding was so low. Following the latest revelations, the CRSC is yet to rule on whether the firm will now be delisted from the Shanghai Stock Exchange. Institutional owners of the Chinese pharmaceutical company include funds run by Norway's sovereign wealth giant, Norges Bank Investment Management. Kangmei, a producer of traditional Chinese medicines, is the latest example of firms in China that have suddenly revealed poor trading positions. Defaults for Chinese corporate bonds issued in both U.S. dollars and the Chinese yuan soared last year, according to numbers provided to CNBC by both Singapore bank DBS and Japan's Nomura bank. Firms in China are facing tighter monetary conditions and are finding it harder to rollover their borrowing to pay down debt. On Monday, the People's Bank of China (PBOC) slackened the reserve requirement rules on Chinese banks, in a bid to encourage lending to cash-strapped firms. However, encouragement from Beijing is not proving to be a guarantee of success. "Availability of credit for refinancing remains tight despite repeated monetary easing by (the) PBOC," DBS has previously said, before adding: "Commercial banks have remained cautious in lending to private companies and financially wobbly state-owned enterprises." At the same time, Chinese lawmakers have attempted to rein in lending by the country's shadow banking sector which has created a credit crunch for firms that can't issue bonds. Tech giant Cisco has signed a memorandum of understanding with Snam, a major European natural gas utility, to work on research, development and innovation in the industrial internet of things sector. Among other things the agreement, which was announced Tuesday, could look at new connectivity systems with the aim of ensuring that energy networks are more efficient and intelligent. Other potential areas of interest include smart sensors to optimize how infrastructure is monitored and maintained. Chuck Robbins, the CEO of Cisco, said the company would work with Snam to "enable its digital transformation, supporting the company in making its energy network increasingly sustainable using cutting edge technologies, IoT (internet of things), 5G and artificial intelligence." The European Commission has described the internet of things as merging "physical and virtual worlds, creating smart environments." Breaking it down a bit further, think of devices that are connected to the internet and able to "talk" to one another. One example would be a thermostat in your home that you are able to control with your smartphone from your office. The industrial internet of things broadly refers to manufacturers and businesses that use the technology to boost productivity. For its part, GE Digital has described the industrial internet of things as being "the network of a multitude of industrial devices connected by communications technologies that results in systems that can monitor, collect, exchange, analyze, and deliver valuable new insights like never before." Marco Alvera, the CEO of Snam, said the company's agreement with Cisco marked a further step forward for its "digital transformation process." "Our goal is to seize the opportunities offered by new technologies to drive the energy transition, making our network increasingly intelligent through IoT systems, machine learning and the use of drones, satellites and sensors to optimize infrastructure monitoring and management," Alvera added. Germany's Commerzbank on Wednesday posted a 54 percent drop in net profit in the first quarter, just weeks after merger talks with rival Deutsche Bank fell apart. It attributed the decline to a higher tax burden. Revenues also declined to 2.156 billion euros in the first quarter, from 2.217 billion a year earlier. But the bank forecast that underlying revenues would be higher in 2019 than in 2018. Net profit of 120 million euros ($134.44 million) was slightly above the 115 million euros expected by analysts in a Reuters poll. It fell from 262 million euros a year earlier. The Commerzbank AG logo sits on an illuminated sign outside a bank branch as the bank's headquarters stand beyond at dusk in Frankfurt, Germany, on Monday, Feb. 5, 2017. Talks with Deutsche Bank were discontinued last month after six weeks of negotiations. The banks attributed the failure to the risks of doing a deal, restructuring costs and capital demands. (Full Story) The failure of talks has raised questions about Commerzbank's future, with some foreign banks expressing interest in taking it over. "We are addressing the right issues with our strategy," Chief Executive Officer Martin Zielke said in a statement on Wednesday. Chief Financial Officer Stephan Engels said business remains on a positive track. "The challenge now is to build on this progress," he said. U.S. communications infrastructure provider Zayo said on Wednesday it agreed to be sold to investment firms Digital Colony Partners and EQT for about $8.2 billion in cash. The deal value of $35 per share is at a premium of 14.3% to Zayo's closing price on Tuesday. Including Zayo's debt of $5.9 billion, the deal is valued at more than $14 billion. Zayo operates a 209,214 km fiber network in the United States and Europe to connect data centers and serves wireless and landline phone companies. It stands to benefit from rising demand for bandwidth in their markets, driven by cloud computing and streaming. In March, activist hedge fund Starboard Value has urged Zayo to consider a sale after taking a 4% stake in the company. Reuters exclusively reported last month about the potential deal. Boulder, Colorado-based Zayo said in November it would break itself up into two companies. However, in February, the company said it was not in its best interest to pursue a public spinoff as part of its strategic review. The company had earlier rejected acquisition offers, including from a private equity consortium comprising Blackstone, Stonepeak Infrastructure Partners, KKR, I Squared Capital, Charlesbank Capital Partners, and GTCR. Zayo will become a private company after the deal closes in the first half of 2020. Shares of Zayo were up 9% at $33.40 in premarket trading. Lawmakers interrogated the acting head of the Federal Aviation Administration , the chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board and the inspector general from the Department of Transportation about the certification and oversight of the 737 Max program at two hearings in late March. The House Aviation Subcommittee is hauling officials from the FAA and NTSB back to Capitol Hill for another hearing next week. In two hearings held in late March and one scheduled for next week, U.S. lawmakers are grilling several officials involved in the 737 Max investigation in the U.S. except Boeing CEO Dennis Muilenburg . Nearly two months since aviation regulators around the world grounded Boeing's 737 Max airplanes, there are still plenty of questions swirling around Washington, D.C., about the plane's development, certification and overall safety. So why hasn't Congress called Muilenburg or any other company executive, for that matter to testify on Capitol Hill about the two crashes in recent months in Indonesia and Ethiopia that killed a combined 346 people. "Are they truly interested in total transparency? Do they want to hear from the top people?" asked former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "I do think there is a little bit of doubt for the moment here why the CEO has not testified." Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., who oversees the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee intends to call Boeing once the 737 Max is recertified, according to a spokesperson. The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure is just beginning its hearings, according to a spokesperson for Chairman Peter DeFazio, adding that there are no plans at this point to hear from Muilenburg. Boeing spokeman Chaz Bickers says the company "continues to work with Congress on information requests from members." Congress hasn't called any Boeing executives to testify on the 737 Max yet, he confirmed. But Congress has been relatively quiet when it comes to the 737 Max, despite high-profile grillings of CEOs at other companies caught in the midst of a public safety scandal. "It's a puzzle in a lot of ways," said Norm Ornstein, of the American Enterprise Institute. Ornstein has spent years studying Congress and has seen this act before. "We now have ample evidence of Boeing backtracking and double-talking about what went wrong with the Max, so there's enough to lead Congress to question the CEO." In the past, Congress has moved relatively quickly to hold CEOs accountable when lives have been at risk. In 2017, United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz was called to Capitol Hill to explain his company's treatment of passengers just three weeks after Dr. David Dao was dragged off of a United plane preparing to take off. In 2014, General Motors CEO Mary Barra, was grilled by senators about the safety of GM vehicles less than two months after millions of GM cars and SUVs were recalled for faulty ignition switches. In 2010, Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda went before lawmakers to defend the safety of Toyota vehicles a month after a major recall involving models that may have faulty accelerator pedals. Ornstein said the Russia investigation may be distracting lawmakers from focusing on the 737 Max crisis. Few Americans were impacted by the crashes, lessening the usual public outrage, he said. "The fact is, we are dealing with two tragedies that happened far from home and for now the planes are not flying. So there's less pressure on Congress to get answers," he said. "If these accidents were in the U.S., I think we would probably have seen a stronger reaction in the Senate and House by now." Boeing also has deep ties with power brokers on Capitol Hill and spends heavily to influence policy. Mark Zuckerberg testifies before the House Energy and Commerce Committee in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill April 11, 2018. Chip Somodevilla | Getty Images Facebook shares have whipsawed in the past year, falling from close to $220 last summer to a low around $125 in early 2019 before climbing back to near-$190. But one thing has remained constant: the percentage of small businesses that buy Facebook advertisements. As Facebook rolls out a series of new tools in the attempt to bring more small businesses into its advertising mix, it is a minority of Main Street businesses that say they advertise on Facebook, and at a level that is not showing growth or retreat, according to the CNBC|SurveyMonkey Small Business Survey for the second quarter. A disastrous earnings report and weak guidance from July 2018 sent Facebook shares over a cliff, from which the company has now rebounded. Ongoing scrutiny of its approach to consumer privacy and threat of increased regulation continue to embed uncertainty in the social media giant's future. But nothing has changed the minds of Main Street business owners as to the benefits of spending on Facebook to reach consumers. The Q2 survey found that 26% of small business owners have advertised on Facebook within the past few months. The last time the survey asked small business owners about Facebook ads, in Q2 of 2018, 25% indicated they had recently advertised on it. Sixty percent of business owners say they have not purchased ads on Facebook, compared to 62% who said that about Facebook ad-buying a year ago. The CNBC|SurveyMonkey Small Business Survey for Q2 included responses from 2,100 small business owners across the country collected between April 15 and April 22. For some businesses Facebook is a key global advertising platform. "Ten years ago you wouldn't be able to target a customer in India if you were in your basement in Toronto," said Nick Kozmin, founder of SalesProcess.io, a start-up consulting firm. "They allow these businesses to reach anyone in the world. Especially for people who know how to use YouTube, Facebook, and other social media platforms, they can create really meaningful business." But many small businesses remain reluctant to spend money on Facebook, even though digital marketing executives say its power is proven. "I think people shy away from Facebook to wait and see [if they can succeed without it]," said Gary Galloway, senior product marketing manager at Netsertive, a consulting firm that local businesses with digital marketing. "Facebook is able to really drive strong, intense signals for people who are interested in certain products. That drives higher performance from an advertising perspective." Regulation and privacy as advertising issues Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has been pushing a new version of the company more centered on a series of apps and services that are built to a greater extent around user privacy. Recent reports indicate the company may face a fine as high as $5 billion to settle charges with the Federal Trade Commission. The privacy issues and government scrutiny have not led to any notable shift in the way small businesses are viewing the potential value of Facebook ads. Roughly one half of small business owners told CNBC|SurveyMonkey that regulating Facebook's use of consumer data will not impact advertising, almost exactly the same percentage as when small business owners were asked one year ago about regulation. Meanwhile, there were increases year-over-year both in owners saying regulation would make ads more effective, and less effective. Those increases reflect that more business owners had a position on the issue of regulation this year: "No answer" went down from 12% of responses in Q2 2018 to 4% of responses in Q2 2019. "Facebook needs to disclose who they are sharing their information with," Galloway said. "So as long as they are transparent and tell users how they are using their information, then I think that will be well received by the general public." "If regulation prevents that data from being seen, this won't be good for advertisers and they will suffer," Kozmin said. "The main problem is getting in front of customers and Facebook allows them to do that." The relationship with Facebook is poised to change Walt Disney World Getty Images | Dan Anderson Higher ticket prices didn't deter tourists from taking trips to Disney theme parks during its second quarter. The company, which reported earnings Wednesday after the closing bell, said guests spent more and stayed longer during their time at Disney parks and on cruises in the quarter, boosting revenue 5% to $6.2 billion during the three-month period ended March 30. This is good news for Disney as it is about to open what some consider its most anticipated theme park expansion land ever Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. The company said the spike in spending was primarily due to increases in average ticket prices, which jumped an average of 8% in January and upwards of 15% in March at Walt Disney World. Parkgoers also spent more on food, beverages and merchandise while visiting the parks. Sales of consumer products on Disney's cruise line and higher attendance and hotel room occupation at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort were also factors, the company said. Earlier this month, free reservations for entry into Disney's new theme park land Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge in California filled up in less than two hours. Fans were permitted to sign up for a 4-hour window to visit that area of the park through the online reservation system. A rendering of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disney. Disney Disney is only instituting this reservation system for days between May 31 and June 23 but is anticipating high demand to continue through summer and the rest of the year. If crowds get too big, Disney said some experiences in the land will be restricted or unavailable. A second Galaxy's Edge will open in Orlando, Florida, in August. The new land is set on Batuu, a planet not yet seen on film. It's a thriving port filled with rogue traders, droids and unique alien species. Disney park guests will be able to explore the planet's Black Spire Outpost and shops as well as pilot the Millennium Falcon on the Smugglers Run ride. They can also take part in an epic battle between the First Order and the Resistance on the Rise of the Resistance ride. A rendering of Oga's Cantina at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Disney Gilead Sciences announced Wednesday that a generic version of Truvada will be available in September 2020, one year earlier than expected. Truvada is the pill used for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP. When taken daily, Truvada prevents HIV transmission. "Gilead reached an agreement with Teva Pharmaceuticals in 2014 to allow the early launch of a generic version of Truvada into the market in 2020, a year earlier than required," wrote Douglas Brooks, Gilead's executive director for community engagement, in an email shared with NBC News by the advocacy group PrEP4All. The information about generic Truvada is also disclosed on page 35 of a Gilead SEC filing released Wednesday morning. While a month's supply of generic Truvada is available in countries around the world for as little as $70, in the United States a month's supply sells for $1,600 to $2,000, and activists have mounted a pressure campaign to force Gilead to make the drug more widely available in order to curb the global HIV epidemic. President Donald Trump's "Ending the HIV Epidemic" plan, announced at this year's State of the Union address, will rely heavily on Truvada in order to stem the spread of the virus. But Truvada's high price threatened to make the plan extremely expensive, activists said. Previously, in a phone call with investors in the second quarter of 2017, then-Gilead CEO John Milligan said, "We don't expect generic Truvada in the United States until 2021." Activists who have been pushing Gilead to #BreakThePatent hailed the news Wednesday, calling it "a victory for the LGBTQ+ community, for HIV activists, and for U.S. taxpayers," but also tamped down expectations. In a statement from the PrEP4All Collaboration, Dr. Aaron S. Lord said allowing just one generic manufacturer, Israel-based Teva Pharmaceuticals, to make generic PrEP "will do little to reduce the price in a way that will increase access, and PrEP4All remains suspicious of the terms and lack of transparency surrounding the Teva settlement." "What's to stop them other from a desire for profit margins from releasing the rights now?" Lord asked. PrEP4All had recently publicized news that Gilead's development and testing of Truvada as PrEP was almost entirely funded by the U.S. government and therefore the CDC, not Gilead, controls the patent for PrEP. That information was first publicized by the Global Health Justice Partnership at Yale University, which wrote "based on our preliminary review, CDC's Patents for PrEP appear to be valid and enforceable." The news that the Justice Department and Gilead were negotiating over the Truvada patent issue was first reported by The Washington Post. An email addressed to "Colleagues" sent Wednesday morning by Douglas Brooks, Gilead's senior director for community engagement, said, "Pursuant to a settlement agreement reached in 2014 ... Teva will be able to launch generic fixed-dose combinations of emtricitabine and TDF ... on September 30, 2020." "This agreement is not related to current discussions with the U.S. government to broaden access to Truvada for PrEP for vulnerable populations and support the federal plan to end the HIV epidemic," Brooks wrote. "Those discussions are ongoing." Gilead did not immediately respond to a request for comment. GM workers rally outside the GM Lordstown plant on March 6, 2019 in Lordstown, Ohio. The sprawling facility was idled today after more than 50 years of producing cars and other vehicles. General Motors said Wednesday it's investing $700 million and creating about 450 new manufacturing jobs in Ohio as it negotiates the sale of its Lorsdtown, Ohio, factory to electric truckmaker Workhorse Group. "The U.S. economy and our core business are strong, so we can expand our commitment to U.S. manufacturing and Ohio and create job opportunities for our employees," said GM CEO Mary Barra said in a statement Wednesday. "We also expect to bring more jobs to the U.S. over time in support of the expected provisions of the USMCA." The company said the new jobs its creating will be at its Toledo, Parma and Moraine facilities in Ohio. President Donald Trump preempted the automaker's announcement over Twitter about an hour beforehand, thanking Barra for selling the plant to Workhorse and reinvesting money in other facilities in Ohio. GM's later said it was in "discussions" with Workhorse to buy the plant, but it didn't confirm that a sale has been agreed to yet. "GREAT NEWS FOR OHIO!" Trump tweeted Wednesday. Tweet Tweet Workhorse is a Loveland, Ohio-based automaker that specializes in manufacturing electric vehicles. If the sale goes through, it would be run by a newly formed affiliate that would be partially owned by Workhorse, executives said. "This potential agreement creates a positive outcome for all parties involved and will help solidify the leadership of Workhorse's role in the EV community," Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes said in a statement. Company founder Steve Burns added that if Workhorse purchases the plant, the company will focus on building a commercial electric pickup truck. Preparing the Lordstown plant for production could begin immediately once the sale is complete, GM said in a statement. GM in March shuttered its Lordstown plant, which built more than 16 million new vehicles over 50 years, to refocus its production on more the profitable trucks and SUVs Americans prefer today. Barra is phasing out most sedans and compact cars to ramp up production of utility vehicles and invest more in autonomous driving and electric vehicles. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y. Tom Williams | CQ-Roll Call Group | Getty Images The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt over the Justice Department's refusal to comply with Democrats' subpoena for special counsel Robert Mueller's unredacted Russia report and its underlying evidence. The 24-16 vote passed along party lines in the Democrat-led committee shortly after President Donald Trump asserted executive privilege over the Mueller report, an escalation of an already-intense political brawl that appears to be headed to the courts. The vote on contempt will now head to the full House, where Democrats control a majority of seats. It was not immediately clear when that vote would be scheduled. "We did not relish doing this, but we had no choice," committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., said after the hearing. Nadler accused Barr of misleading Congress in his testimony and of "turning the entire Department of Justice into an instrument of Trump personally." Nadler added: "We've talked for a long time about approaching a constitutional crisis. We are now in it." Lawmakers fought over whether the assertion of executive privilege was valid, and traded barbs throughout the lengthy hearing about the legality and the alleged political motives behind the contempt proceedings. Democrats stressed that they were holding Barr in contempt as they pushed for the full report and the "millions" of pages of underlying evidence that have so far been withheld by the DOJ in the name of transparency, accountability and oversight. "Our fight is not just about the Mueller report although we must have access to the Mueller report," Nadler said. "Our fight is about defending the rights of Congress, as an independent branch, to hold the president accountable." Republicans, however, accused Democrats of using Barr as a "whipping boy" and a stepping stone on the path toward impeaching Trump. "Bill Barr is following the law, and what's his reward? Democrats are going to hold him in contempt," said Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio. "This is all about impeaching the president," said Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., after Georgia Democrat Hank Johnson mentioned in his remarks the prospect of impeaching Trump following further investigation. Barr, who oversaw the final phase of the special counsel's 22-month investigation after taking the reins from Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, made redactions to the report in four categories. Those included information related to ongoing investigations and testimony from a grand jury that is included in the report. Barr and the DOJ, citing federal rules, say they are bound not to reveal grand jury testimony to Congress or the public. Nadler's subpoena requested "the complete and unredacted version of the report" submitted by Mueller to the Justice Department on March 22. But at the hearing Wednesday, the chairman said that "the subpoena was never intended to cover" the rule barring the release of grand jury information. Instead, Nadler said that he wanted the Justice Department to ask a court for permission to release that material, as has been done in the past. Michael Wirth, CEO of Chevron. Adam Jeffery | CNBC Chevron has a major decision to make after Anadarko Petroleum decided to ditch a $33 billion deal with the oil major and instead sell its business to Occidental Petroleum. Anadarko's board said Monday a revised $38 billion offer from Occidental was superior to its existing $33 billion agreement with Chevron. Now, Chevron has until Friday to counter Occidental's bid for Anadarko, an international driller with enviable assets in U.S. shale fields, the Gulf of Mexico and Africa. There's no doubt the San Ramon, California-based energy giant can afford to put more chips on the table. But Chevron CEO Michael Wirth told analysts last month he won't overpay. He said his company has a strong case to present to investors whether or not he closes the deal with Anadarko. The question is whether it makes more sense for Chevron to fold and pocket a $1 billion breakup fee. At least one investment bank thinks the drama is over. Stifel believes Chevron will walk away from the deal and look for another acquisition target in the Permian Basin, the top U.S. shale field underlying Texas and New Mexico. Chevron also wanted Anadarko's liquefied natural gas development in Mozambique, but not badly enough to put up a fight, according to Stifel analyst Michael Scialla. "While CVX had overlap with APC's Permian assets and could easily manage the Mozambique project, the company is unlikely to stretch for this transaction, in our view, as long as cheaper alternatives ... are available," Scialla said in a research note Monday. According to Scialla, options include Concho Resources, Parsley Energy, Pioneer Natural Resources and Cimarex Energy. KeyBanc analyst Leo Mariani thinks Chevron will make at least one counteroffer, probably bidding at least $70 per share. At that price, Chevron would tack another $3.2 billion onto its overall proposal, he says. Chevron also has a built-in $2.50 per share advantage because Anadarko would not have to pay the $1 billion breakup fee, Mariani notes. In his view, Chevron also has more currency because it would emerge from the deal with less debt than Occidental. Still, the $70 per share offer might not be enough to beat Occidental's $76 per share bid, Mariani says. Meng Wanzhou Alexander Bibik | Reuters Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou is scheduled to appear at a court in Vancouver, Canada on Wednesday as she continues to fight against extradition to the U.S. The hearing on Wednesday is one step in what legal experts said could be a long process. Here's everything you need to know. Why was Meng Wanzhou arrested? In December, Meng was arrested in Canada at the request of the U.S. She has been under house arrest since. Huawei and Meng were charged with bank and wire fraud and conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud in relation to skirting American sanctions on Iran. The U.S. alleges that Meng lied to banks about Huawei's relationship with an unofficial subsidiary in Iran called Skycom in order to get banking services. What is Huawei's response? Huawei denied the allegations from the U.S. "The company denies that it or its subsidiary or affiliate have committed any of the asserted violations of U.S. law set forth in each of the indictments, is not aware of any wrongdoing by Ms Meng, and believes the U.S. courts will ultimately reach the same conclusion," Huawei said in a statement in January. The Chinese tech giant also said that it looked to discuss Meng's arrest with the U.S. Justice Department but that request "was rejected without explanation." What is Wednesday's hearing about? A decision on whether Meng will be extradited or not will not happen on Wednesday. Instead, it is likely to be a short affair in which a timetable for the next steps will be decided. Leo Adler, a Toronto-based criminal lawyer with expertise in extradition cases, said Meng's defense is likely going to ask for "disclosure," which are documents and evidence the prosecution is using against the defendant. "The defense will probably want more materials. The Crown attorneys, acting on behalf of the United States will probably be fighting that application for disclosure. They invariably do," Adler told CNBC by phone on Wednesday. "I anticipate that there will be a series of applications. They'll schedule them out and we will see what transpires." What could Meng's lawyers argue? Over the course of the extradition process, Meng's defense could set out a number of arguments, according to Adler. Meng is accused of violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. Last year, the U.S. pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran. That deal lifted sanctions on Iran but put limits on its nuclear program. But by pulling out, the U.S. restored those sanctions. However, Canada is still part of that deal. Therefore, even if what Meng allegedly did was illegal in the U.S., it may not be in Canada. This could be one argument used by Meng's lawyers. Separately, Meng's defense has filed a lawsuit against Canadian authorities alleging the Huawei CFO was arrested and detained against her constitutional rights. Meng's lawyers could argue "this is an abuse of process, her rights were abused, if they were, the whole extradition case should be thrown out," Adler said. Finally, Meng's defense could argue that the case is political in nature. It's taking place against the backdrop of the ongoing U.S.-China trade war. On top of that, America has accused Huawei of being a national security threat, alleging its networking equipment could be used for espionage by Beijing. Huawei denies that allegations. U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted in the past that he could intervene in Meng's case if it helped seal a U.S.-China trade deal. In a preliminary hearing in the British Columbia Supreme Court in Vancouver in March, one of Meng's lawyers raised concerns about the political nature of the extradition case. "There are issues about the political character, political motivation, comments by the U.S. president," Richard Peck said. "She can argue there appears to be a pre-disposition, an anti-Chinese pre-disposition and therefore this will be a witch trial because she is Chinese, because of the claim that Huawei is really part of the Chinese government and Chinese Communist Party and so she would never get a fair trial," Adler told CNBC. Adler added that many of those arguments could come during a later part of the extradition hearings. The anti-establishment and partly nationalist coalition in charge of Italy have slowly normalized the way they do politics since coming to power, the CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo told CNBC Wednesday. The left-leaning Five Star Movement (M5S) and the right-wing Lega parties formed a coalition nearly a year ago, promising to break away from the traditional political system. However, the chief of one of Europe's biggest banks by market value, says these two parties are "becoming normal" in the way they do politics. "All these parties change their attitude and their view on what they need to do for the country," Carlos Messina, CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo, told CNBC Wednesday. "They completely change(d) their view on what they need to do, also the attitude towards the European Commission, towards Europe, they are becoming normal in the sense of what they want to do for the country," Messina told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe." Prior to the general election in March 2018, both parties seemingly displayed stronger commitments on certain policies. For instance, Lega led by Matteo Salvini used to argue that Italy should leave the euro zone, before softening that position as the election approached. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Wednesday his country would end its compliance with two particular conditions of the country's nuclear deal. It comes exactly one year after President Donald Trump announced America's withdrawal from the deal that has since been on life support as European, Russian and Chinese signatories endeavor to save it. Rouhani did not signal the end of deal entirely, but gave Europe an ultimatum: It will have 60 days to either follow the Trump administration or resume oil trade with Iran to save the agreement, violating U.S. sanctions. A failure to do the latter would prompt Tehran to return to high level uranium enrichment, the Iranian leader said. "The path we have chosen today is not the path of war, it is the path of diplomacy," Rouhani said in a televised speech. "But diplomacy with a new language and a new logic." Starting Wednesday, Iran will keep unspent enriched uranium instead of selling it, which it had been doing under the stipulations of the 2015 nuclear deal. This will help build its store of low enriched uranium and heavy water, which are used in nuclear reactors. If Europe does not step up to save the deal and protect Iran's oil and banking sectors from U.S. sanctions, Rouhani said, it will restart construction of its Arak nuclear reactor, which was capable of producing weapons-grade plutonium and had been shut down as part of the 2015 deal. Iran's level of uranium enrichment is said to be currently at just over 3%, as allowed under the nuclear deal for power generation. Enrichment needs to be at around 90% in order to build a bomb, from which Iran remains a long way away, experts say. But governments in the West fear Iran's atomic program could allow it to eventually build nuclear weapons, something at international bodies like the International Atomic Energy Agency and the UN said was being effectively prevented by the 2015 deal. Steve Debenport | Getty Images Student debt can become a big burden for young adults in the U.S., with a third of college graduates saying their degree wasn't worth the debt. But a new study has claimed graduates can pay off their student loans in as little as four years if they live in the right place. The research from personal finance advisors GoBankingRates analyzed the cost of living and median salaries for recent college graduates in 100 U.S. cities, weighing the data against the average student loan balance in each individual city. Published Tuesday, the findings showed that the best cities weren't necessarily those where grads made the most money, or where the cost of living was the lowest. 10. Littleton, Colorado Years to repay student loans: 6.02 While the average cost of rent is on the higher side at $2,150 a month, graduates who live in Littleton benefit from a median salary of $71,315, according to the study. 9. Seattle, Washington Years to repay student loans: 6 Seattle's residents pay the fifth-highest rent in the top 20 ranking, but enjoy the lowest utility costs. According to GoBankingRates, Seattle graduates' average student loan balance of $35,305 could take just six years to repay. 8. Spring, Texas Years to repay student loans: 5.73 The median income for new graduates in Spring is $5,568 a month, while the average monthly cost of rent is $1,575 meaning graduates have the potential to pay off their student debt in under six years, according to GoBankingRates. 7. Silver Spring, Maryland Years to repay student loans: 5.66 The city of Silver Spring has a high cost of living residents pay the third-highest grocery costs, second-highest utility costs and third-highest transportation costs, according to GoBankingRates. Graduates also have the third-highest average student loan balance at $39,617. However, the analysis found that recent grads have a median income of $76,608 per year the seventh-highest of any city on the list. 6. San Jose, California Years to repay student loans: 5.14 Despite having some of the highest living costs of the cities included in the analysis, San Jose enjoys the highest median income for graduates at $96,662 per year, or $8,055 per month. Meanwhile, the average loan balance in San Jose is only the sixth highest at $29,307. 5. Katy, Texas Years to repay student loans: 5.13 Katy came in around the middle of the pack for both median income $6,155 per month and average rent. The city also had the third-lowest utility costs on the list, at $66.27 per month. According to GoBankingRates, graduates living in Katy should be able to pay back their average loan balance of $31,380 in just over five years. 4. Virginia Beach, Virginia Years to repay student loans: 5.12 Graduates who earn the median income of $70,500 per year and pay the average rent of $1,500 per month should be poised to pay back their student debt in just over five years, the analysis said assuming a grad has the average loan balance of $30,266. 3. Nashville, Tennessee Years to repay student loans: 4.81 Nashville's average rent cost was middle of the range, while grocery costs were the third lowest of the 100 cities analyzed. Lower outgoings combined with a higher average income of $6,333 a month meant that graduates could pay off the city's average loan balance of $37,158 in less than five years. 2. Alexandria, Virginia Years to repay student loans: 4.56 Alexandria has the third-highest average graduate salary of $93,370, according to GoBankingRates' data. Living costs are also on the higher end. Although the city has the second-highest student loan debt of $40,085, the analysis concluded that on the average salary, graduates should be able to pay it off in around four-and-a-half years. 1. Plano, Texas US President Donald Trump shakes hands with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi as he departs following the Friends of Ireland Luncheon in honor of Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, March 14, 2019. Nancy Pelosi doubts the Trump administration can strike a trade deal with China this week as a tariff increase looms on Friday. "No," the House speaker said at a Washington Post Live event Wednesday when asked if she is confident an agreement will happen. "Let me just say that first of all, I never believed that the Chinese were going to honor what they said they were going to do. ... In any trade agreement if you don't have enforcement, all you're having is a conversation, a cup of tea." The U.S. plans to escalate its trade conflict with Beijing on Friday, when it expects to increase duties on $200 billion in Chinese goods to 25% from 10%. The move comes as the American side cites a lack of progress toward a final agreement to address trade concerns and accuses China of backing out of previous commitments. The Trump administration hopes it can still make progress when a Chinese delegation led by Vice Premier Liu He heads to Washington for talks on Thursday and Friday. On Wednesday, President Donald Trump tweeted that Chinese negotiators "are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal." But the president added that he is "very happy" with the revenue raised by tariffs, which he called "great" for the U.S. but "not good for China!" But U.S. consumers largely bear the costs of duties, not China. Trump tweet: ....Guess what, that's not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal. We'll see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers...great for U.S., not good for China! Top Democrats have largely backed Trump's efforts to crack down on what officials call Chinese trade abuses, such as intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers. But Washington and Beijing have disagreed over how best to enforce those provisions: Trump wants to at least temporarily leave tariffs in place to force China to uphold its end of an agreement. The president and Democrats have differed on how best to encourage China to strike a deal to change its practices. On Wednesday, Pelosi said, "The president is correct in asserting what we have to do with China." However, she said his methods are "empowering them to hurt our people." The tariffs Trump has put so far on $250 billion in Chinese goods sparked retaliatory duties that helped to send crop prices diving and damaged U.S. farmers. Pelosi contended that, rather than putting tariffs on allies such as the European Union and angering them, Trump should have spared them to increase the leverage the countries could have collectively had over China. Trump has more enthusiastic support from the top Senate Democrat. After Trump first announced the tariff increase on Sunday, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., urged him to "hang tough on China." The Trump administration has said it would consider delaying Friday's planned tariff increase if talks with Beijing make progress. But even some Democrats who backed Trump's initial efforts to overhaul trade deals and boost U.S. manufacturing workers have soured on his negotiating tactics with China. Some Democratic lawmakers who supported the president's tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from China have criticized the widening trade conflict. "President Trump's inability to close a deal with China is hurting our economy," Rep. Tim Ryan, an Ohio Democrat and 2020 presidential candidate, said in a statement. "Businesses need certaintynot a trade war. Our country needs President Trump to finally develop a whole-of-government strategy that holds China accountable and benefits American workers and businesses." Meanwhile, a spokeswoman for Sen. Sherrod Brown another skeptic of U.S. trade agreements said the Ohio Democrat "supports a strong final agreement that leads to long-term structural changes to curb China's cheating." The spokeswoman, Jennifer Donohue, did not immediately answer whether the senator thinks tariffs are the best method of getting to a final agreement. Subscribe to CNBC on YouTube. Sears unveiled a new logo, marking its latest attempt to freshen its image and reconnect with consumers. The company said the new design hopes to represent a combination of a home and a heart. Its reveal comes shortly after the release of Sears' new slogan, "making moments matter," which the company rolled out in a video on Facebook in late April. Sears' new logo received mixed reactions on social media. While some applauded Sears' effort to rebrand as "refreshing," "bright," and "bold," others mocked the design's stark resemblance to online home rental service Airbnb's logo. "Why do I keep thinking AIR BNB when I see the new logo?" a user asked on Facebook. "Air B&B called said they want their logo back," wrote another. Some people also expressed confusion over what the emblem stood for. "No idea what the new logo is supposed to be. Please tell us," wrote one user on Facebook. Another wrote, "If I saw that logo from the highway, I'd guess it was either a filling station or a soft ice cream store." Sears declined to comment to CNBC, but addressed the public backlash in a comment to users on its Facebook page. News of the new logo and the backlash was first reported by Business Insider. "The new icon was created to represent both home and heart, this shape also conveys motion through an infinity loop, reminiscent of one getting their arms around both home and life. The rings, like those of a tree trunk, show longevity. With home and heart at the center, the rings radiate and grow to encompass our broad assortment of products and services," Sears said, in a comment last week . Others took the reveal as an opportunity to jab at the company's string of financial struggles. "A new logo is not going to save Sears," one Facebook user wrote. The move is the latest step in the company's larger effort to revive its business after years of slumping sales. In October 2018, the company filed for bankruptcy. In February, a judge approved its purchase by a hedge fund operated by Eddie Lampert, the company's chairman and former CEO, for $5.2 billion. Lampert said the deal would help save 425 Sears and Kmart stores and roughly 45,000 jobs. Rolling out a new logo can be an expensive proposition, depending on the extent of the changes, as signage and labeling are changed, said Jim Cusson, president of Theory House, a retail marketing agency. "Sears has a wealth of challenges facing them. And, I hate to use the expression 'putting lipstick on a pig,' but I think there were more critical issues to address than putting a new face on the store," Cusson said. The company also recently has announced that it would be opening several smaller stores called Sears Home + Life, which will sell home appliances, mattresses and other hard goods. A typical Sears store averages about 150,000 square feet and sells a wider range of items including apparel, home furnishings and electronics. Sears has replaced its old logo on its social media pages, but it is unclear how quickly the company will be able to roll out changes at its department stores. Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Elizabeth Warren and House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings on Wednesday unveiled a $100 billion proposal to tackle the ongoing opioid epidemic in the United States. The legislation would fund prevention services and provide resources to programs for those battling addiction and in recovery. "The opioid and addiction crisis is a national emergency that touches all communities, regardless of location, average income or racial makeup," Warren, of Massachusetts, said in a statement, adding that it's "long past time to enact comprehensive legislation" to address the problem. The Democratic lawmakers said in a statement the plan would be financed by rolling back "just a fraction" of tax cuts that benefited drugmakers they say "played such a key role in creating this crisis." However, when asked if Warren and Cummings, D-Maryland, were specifically referring to the 2017 corporate tax cuts, a senior Democratic committee aide said "this is just a suggested approach" and that it is an option that is being considered because details have not yet been resolved. Warren also said in a statement her proposed 2% tax on wealthy Americans who are worth $50 million or more could help fund the legislation. More than 130 people in the U.S. die every day from opioid overdoses, with about 47,000 people dying in 2017, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The CDC estimates the "economic burden" of the opioid epidemic at about $78.5 billion a year in the U.S., mostly due to added costs for treatment and on the criminal justice system. The law would provide $10 billion per year to fund resources and programs over a span of ten years. It would grant: The Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed President Donald Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., to answer questions about his claim to have just limited knowledge of an ultimately aborted plan to build a Trump Tower in Moscow, NBC News reported Wednesday. Trump Jr.'s prior testimony was called into question earlier this year by new testimony from President Trump's former personal lawyer, Michael Cohen, who said he had briefed Trump Jr. repeatedly about the effort to develop a Trump Tower there. A person close to Donald Trump Jr. blasted the subpoena to CNBC as "an obvious PR stunt from a so-called 'Republican' senator" Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr of North Carolina "too cowardly to stand up to his boss [committee ranking Democrat] Mark Warner and the rest of the resistance Democrats on the committee." That person said people should expect Trump Jr. to fight the subpoena. Trump Jr. testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee in September 2017 that "I was peripherally aware" of an effort to build that project in Russia, which was being pursued as his father was a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination. That effort was not known to the public at the time. A source directly familiar with the matter told NBC News that the committee also wants to ask Trump Jr. about what he has claimed to have told colleagues about the Trump Tower New York meeting in June 2016, when he, his brother-in-law Jared Kushner and campaign chairman Paul Manafort met with a Russian lawyer who purportedly had negative information about Hillary Clinton. In his Senate judiciary testimony, Trump Jr. claimed he did not tell Manafort or Kushner what the meeting was going to be about, and further claimed he did not tell his father about the meeting at all. But Cohen has said he recalled being in the elder Trump's office in June 6 or 7 in 2016 when the younger Trump told his father that a meeting to obtain derogatory information about Clinton was going to happen. And Cohen in February told a House committee that he had met with both Donald Trump Jr. and his sister, Ivanka Trump, "approximately 10" times to brief them about the Trump Tower plan. Tweet "The company [the Trump Organization] was involved in the deal, which meant that the family was involved in the deal," he testified. Cohen on Monday began serving a three-year federal prison sentence after pleading guilty to crimes that included having lied to Congress in 2017 about details of the Trump Tower project. Cohen originally falsely told Congress that the project was dropped in January 2016 months before the elder Trump had locked up the GOP presidential nomination when it actually had continued being pursued through June 2016, when Trump had the nomination well in hand. The Zotye Auto debut at Shanghai auto show H/O: Zotye Auto When Guangzhou-based GAC Group rolled out a concept vehicle at the North American International Auto Show last January it was just the latest among a procession of Chinese automakers laying out plans to enter the American car market. To date, however, the only Chinese-made vehicles to reach U.S. shores have been imported by General Motors and Volvo. But Zotye Auto, a small, privately held carmaker from Yongkang, Zhejiang, China, is determined to be the first domestic Chinese car company to reach American shores and in as little as 18 months from now. With a name that few Americans will likely know how to pronounce it's Zoh-tay, not Zot-yee a small budget and even less brand equity than bigger Chinese brands like BYD, Geely or Great Wall, there are plenty of skeptics. Americans "have a bad perception of Chinese vehicles, overall," cautioned Augusto Amorim, a senior analyst with LMC Automotive. And Zotye is particularly unknown, he said. But the team of industry veterans who are leading the Zotye launch effort are confident they can pull it off, including seasoned salesman Duke Hale, 69, who sold his first car as a teenager and has spent decades working with automakers as diverse as Isuzu, Lotus and Land Rover. Hale said he's confident his "seven Ps" strategy will clinch the deal. The list includes such things as "processes" and "product." The first model expected to enter Zotye's U.S. lineup debuted barely a month ago at Auto Shanghai. The T600 is a compact crossover that will be aimed at the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. It will be followed in 2022 by the midsize T700 crossover and, about a year later, by a three-row model. The Zotye Auto debut at Shanghai auto show H/O: Zotye Auto But while the T600 has generated some positive press, Hale believes the brand's biggest selling point will be "price." "Think in terms of 20% less than the targeted competition," notably including the likes of Hyundai, Kia and Toyota, Hale said over dinner with journalists at the Detroit Renaissance Center on Thursday. That's an even bigger discount than Hyundai offered buyers when it came to the U.S. market 30 years ago and with a name that was equally baffling to American consumers. And it would come at a decidedly opportune time. Industry officials such as Joe Hinrichs, Ford's president of automotive operations, have openly worried about the rising cost of today's new vehicles. The average sticker price of a new car hit a record $34,000 at the beginning of the year, according to data compiled by industry research company LMC Automotive. Industry observers note that translates into a typical monthly payment of around $550, enough to price millions of potential buyers out of the market, especially millennial and Gen-Z motorists, many already straining to pay off student loans. Jan Thompson, a former marketing executive with Mazda and Toyota who's now handling that role for Zotye, said the Chinese brand's primary buyers will be young shoppers who don't want to buy a used car. But with an estimated 42 million used vehicles sold in 2019, nearly three times more than new, customers could come from every market demographic, she said. 2019 Honda CRV with camper tent accessories. Adam Jeffery | CNBC President Donald Trump accused China on Wednesday of pulling back from agreed-upon trade deal language because Beijing would rather negotiate with former Vice President Joe Biden "or one of the very weak Democrats" hoping to win the White House. Trump launched his attack in a pair of tweets that moved equities markets. "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come," Trump tweeted. "Guess what, that's not going to happen!" TRUMP TWEET 1 TRUMP TWEET 2 The tweets showed that Trump's attention is on Biden, the Democratic front-runner, even as he prepares for the most crucial trade talks of his presidency. Since Biden joined the race last month, Trump has attacked him more forcefully than any other Democrat running for president. Shortly after the tweets were posted, Biden's campaign responded. "Unfortunately, the only people [Trump] has gotten tough w/ so far on trade are US farmers, small business owners & consumers, who feel the brunt of his tariff war," Biden's communications director, Kate Bedingfield, tweeted. Biden, she wrote, "will invest in our core strengths & ensure that US & our allies write rules of the road re: China." U.S. trade policy, and in particular Biden's record as a vocal advocate of free trade and multilateral agreements, has already surfaced as a top issue in the both the Democratic primary and increasingly in Trump's still-evolving 2020 campaign platform. In 2016, Trump's tough rhetoric on trade, and his pledge to renegotiate what he often called "disastrous" free trade deals like NAFTA, were critical to his strategy of winning over disaffected Rust Belt Democrats by promising to bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States. With the 2020 election just 18 months away, Trump is under ever-increasing pressure to deliver on those promises. By painting his Democratic rivals as too "weak" to successfully negotiate with the world's second largest economy, Trump appears to be trying to shift the narrative away from the idea that he and his White House are competing against the Chinese, and toward the idea that the real contest is between Biden and himself. As his third major presidential campaign gets underway, Biden is already drawing criticism from the left of his party for playing down the threat Chinese competition poses to U.S. union-backed manufacturing industries. At a campaign stop in Iowa last week, he appeared to dismiss concerns about China's geopolitical ascendancy. "China is going to eat our lunch? Come on, man," he said. Biden's rivals, meanwhile, have a veritable treasure chest of Senate votes Biden cast over three decades, as well as Obama administration trade policies, with which to draw contrasts between themselves and the former vice president. "When people take a look at my record versus Vice President Biden's record, I helped lead the fight against NAFTA; he voted for NAFTA," Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders told CNN shortly after Biden launched his campaign. "I helped lead the fight against [permanent normalized trade relations] with China; he voted for it. I strongly opposed the Trans-Pacific Partnership; he supported it." Sanders also slammed Biden's more recent comments on China. "It's wrong to pretend that China isn't one of our major economic competitors," the senator said. At other times, however, Biden has borrowed a line that Trump frequently used in his 2016 campaign, describing himself not as a "free trader," but as a "fair trader." "I'm a fair trader," Biden said last week in Iowa. "That's why I've been arguing for a long time that we should treat other countries the way in which they treat us, which is, particularly as it relates to China: If they want to trade here, they're going to be under the same rules." CNBC's Jacob Pramuk contributed to this report. President Donald Trump delivers remarks during an event to mark the National Day of Prayer in the Rose Garden at the White House May 3, 2018 in Washington, DC. LOS ANGELES Critics are assailing the Trump administration's "conscience" rule, which allows health workers to refuse medical treatment to people, even in emergencies. They charge it allows discrimination against the LGBTQ community and women and could result in some medical providers refusing lifesaving care. In a release last week, the Health and Human Services announced the issuance of its final "conscience" rule, which it said follows President Donald Trump's May 2017 executive order and his pledge "to promote and protect the fundamental and unalienable rights of conscience and religious liberty." The agency said the final rule replaces a 2011 policy "that has proven inadequate." It added that these laws protect health-care providers and workers "from having to provide, participate in, pay for, provide coverage of, or refer for, services such as abortion, sterilization, or assisted suicide." However, the city of San Francisco filed a lawsuit last week calling the federal rule unconstitutional and charging it "would increase discrimination in health care." Furthermore, the city claims it risks losing nearly $1 billion in federal funds if it refuses to comply with the administration's rule. "While San Francisco complies with the laws passed by Congress, the final rule would result in immediate injury to San Francisco," the city declared in its complaint. It said the rule requires the city and county "to prioritize providers' religious beliefs over the health and lives of women, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender people, and other medically and socially vulnerable populations." At the same time, the lawsuit said: "San Francisco recognizes and respects that an individual's religious beliefs, cultural values, and ethics may make that person reluctant to participate in any aspect of patient care." "But while the city supports the legitimate conscience rights of individual health care professions, the exercise of these rights must be balanced against the fundamental obligations of the medical profession and the right of patients to receive quality patient care," it added. As an example, San Francisco said it could lose federal money: from Medicaid and Medicare, to HIV treatment and assistance for low-income families. "Health-care providers are sworn to put patients first and to do no harm," said Christine Keeves, a spokesperson for the San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Community Center. "Giving providers an excuse to deny services or treatment to LGBTQ people will exacerbate already prevalent health disparities and put patients last." The city's lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, seeks declaratory and injunctive relief and names the HHS and its Secretary Alex Azar, as well as the director of the agency's Office for Civil Rights, Roger Severino. The White House referred requests for comment to the HHS. "The rule provides enforcement tools to federal conscience protections that have been on the books for decades," Severino said in an email statement to CNBC. "The rule does not create new substantive rights." He added: "We have not seen the hypotheticals that some have used to criticize the rule actually develop in real life. Faith-based providers just like all providers should be allowed to serve those most in need without fear of being pushed out of the health care system because of their beliefs, including declining to participate in the taking of human life." California Attorney General Xavier Becerra has signaled he's "prepared to do whatever it takes to challenge this rule," according to spokesperson Sarah Lovenheim. Becerra has already filed lawsuits against the Trump administration on other health care issues, including the "gag rule" on abortion. "The 'conscience' rule creates real confusion around health-care providers' obligations to patients in emergency situations," said Ian Thompson, senior legislative representative for the American Civil Liberties Union in Washington. "We think that this could put patients in danger when, for example, they are miscarrying or hemorrhaging, experiencing heart failure, or suffering from some other serious complication during pregnancy," Thompson said. He said an ambulance driver could use the federal law to refuse to transport someone to the hospital in an emergency situation if they thought the person might be getting an abortion. (ANSA) - Perugia, May 7 - Amanda Knox has said she will return to Italy next month for the first since being definitively cleared in 2015 of killing her former flat mate Meredith Kercher. The American woman has agreed to speak at criminal justice conference in Modena taking place June 13-15. "The Italy Innocence Project didn't yet exist when I was wrongly convicted in Perugia," Knox said via her Twitter account, @amandaknox, referring to a NGO that helps the victims of miscarriages of justice. "I'm honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time". The 31-year-old American was accused of murdering British exchange student Kercher together with her then boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito in Perugia on November 1, 2007. The pair were arrested five days later and convicted by a court of first instance, but this conviction was subsequently overturned. The appeal sentence was then thrown out by the Court of Cassation, Italy's supreme court, which ordered a new trial on appeal leading to their re-conviction in 2014. Knox and Sollecito were eventually acquitted definitively by the supreme court the following year. An Ivorian, Rudy Guede, was convicted of the murder in a separate fast-track trial and is serving a 16-year sentence. President Donald Trump on Wednesday praised General Motors CEO Mary Barra after he says she informed him GM will sell its shuttered Lordstown, Ohio, manufacturing plant to auto manufacturer Workhorse to build electric trucks. GM later clarified that it is still in talks with Workhorse about a potential sale. Trump added that GM will also spend $700 million in Ohio, creating 450 new jobs in three separate locations. "I have been working nicely with GM to get this done. Thank you to Mary B, your GREAT Governor, and Senator Rob Portman. With all the car companies coming back, and much more, THE USA IS BOOMING!" Trump tweeted. Tweet Tweet Workhorse, the company Trump said GM is selling the plant to, is a Loveland, Ohio-based automaker that specializes in electric vehicles. GM's Lordstown assembly plant, which produced more than 16 million vehicles over a span of several decades, shut down in March. The automaker closed the factory to avoid making the same financial mistakes that sent it into bankruptcy in 2009. Trump had condemned GM's decision to close its plant, putting pressure on the company to resume operations. Trump said he spoke with Barra after the plant closed and claimed she "blamed" the closure on the United Auto Workers union. "I don't care, I just want it open!" he tweeted in March. U.S. President Donald Trump arrives at an event to celebrate the anniversary of first lady Melania Trump's "Be Best" initiative in the Rose Garden at the White House in Washington, U.S., May 7, 2019. U.S. President Donald Trump's businesses lost a total of more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, according to the New York Times, which said it obtained printouts from Trump's official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts. The newspaper said Trump posted losses in excess of $250 million in both 1990 and 1991, which appeared to be more than double any other individual U.S. taxpayer in an annual IRS sampling of high-income earners. Trump lost so much money that he was able to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years, the Times said. Over the 10 years, Trump's core businesses, including casinos, hotels and apartment buildings, lost $1.17 billion, according to the newspaper. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Times quoted a lawyer for the president, Charles Harder, as saying the tax information was "highly inaccurate." Trump, a real estate magnate who turned over the running of his businesses to his sons after his election in 2016, touted his business acumen and negotiating skills on the campaign trail. Trump broke with a decades-old precedent by refusing to release his tax returns as a presidential candidate in 2016 or since being elected, saying he could not do so while his taxes were being audited. On Monday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin refused a request by the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Ways and Means Committee for Trump's tax returns. Democrats want Trump's tax data as part of their investigations of possible conflicts of interest posed by his continued ownership of extensive business interests, even as he serves as president. President Donald Trump on Wednesday asserted executive privilege over special counsel Robert Mueller's full, unredacted report and materials used to prepare it in a dispute with House Democrats, seeking to keep all those materials out of Congress' hands at least for the moment. Trump's "protective assertion" gives him the option to make a "final assertion" on whether to claim executive privilege over only some or all of the Mueller-related materials in the future, according to Attorney General William Barr. The move came as House Democrats continued to press for the Justice Department to turn over the report materials, which detail Mueller's probe of Russian interference in the 2016 president election, the question of whether Trump campaign officials coordinated with Russians, and possible obstruction of justice by the president himself. The decision to assert privilege was announced as the House Judiciary Committee, chaired by Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., held a hearing on whether to hold Barr in contempt for failing to give Congress the materials that the panel has subpoenaed. Nadler, in opening the committee hearing, said, "The administration has announced loud and clear that it does not recognize Congress as a coequal branch of government." "No person ... can be permitted to flout the will of Congress and defy a valid subpoena" Nadler said. Barr wrote Trump on Wednesday asking him to "make a protective assertion of executive privilege" for the subpoenaed documents. The attorney general said the requested materials include "law enforcement information, information about sensitive intelligence sources and information, and grand-jury information that the Department is prohibited from disclosing by law," according to Barr's letter. Barr wrote that "you would be making only a protective assertion of executive privilege," which would "ensure your ability to make a final assertion, if necessary, over some or all of the subpoenaed materials." White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said, "The American people see through Chairman Nadler's desperate ploy to distract from the President's historically successful agenda and our booming economy." "Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadler's unlawful and reckless demands," Sanders said. "Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney General's request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege." In a letter to Nadler, Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd wrote, "This is to advise you that the President has asserted executive privilege over the entirety of subpoenaed materials." "This protective assertion of executive privilege ensures the President's ability to make a final decision whether to assert privilege following a full review of these materials," Boyd wrote. The letter also said, "We are disappointed that you have rejected the Department of Justice's request to delay the vote of" the Judiciary Committee. Nadler, at his committee hearing, said no person, be they the attorney general or the president of the United States, "can be permitted to be above the law." "The Trump administration, and its enablers, may brazenly try to cover up the misdeeds uncovered by the special counsel, but on this committee we will represent the American people and ensure the truth is known," Nadler said. Read Sarah Huckabee Sanders's statement: Read Attorney General William Barr's letter to President Donald Trump: The Attorney General Washington, D.C. May 8, 2019 The President The White House Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President: I am writing to request that you make a protective assertion of executive privilege with respect to Department of Justice documents recently subpoenaed by the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives. In cases like this where a committee has declined to grant sufficient time to conduct a full review, the President may make a protective assertion of privilege to protect the interests of the Executive Branch pending a final determination about whether to assert privilege. See Protective Assertion of Executive Privilege Regarding White House Counsel's Office Documents, 20 Op. O.L.C. 1 (1996) (opinion of Attorney General Janet Reno). The Committee has demanded that I produce the "complete and unredacted version" of the report submitted to me on March 22, 2019, by Special Counsel Robert S. Mueller, III, regarding his investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. The Committee also seeks "[a]ll documents referenced in the Report" and "[a]ll documents obtained and investigative materials created by the Special Counsel's Office." The Committee therefore demands all of the Special Counsel's investigative files, which consist of millions of pages of classified and unclassified documents bearing upon more than two dozen criminal cases and investigations, many of which are ongoing. These materials include law enforcement information, information about sensitive intelligence sources and methods, and grand-jury information that the Department is prohibited from disclosing by law. Consistent with paragraph 5 of President Reagan's 1982 memorandum about assertions of executive privilege, the Department requested that the Chairman of the Committee hold the subpoena in abeyance and delay any vote recommending that the House of Representatives approve a resolution finding me in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with the subpoena, pending a final presidential decision on whether to invoke executive privilege. See Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies, Re: Procedures Governing Responses to Congressional Requests for Information at 2 (Nov. 4, 1982). The Department made this request because, although the subpoenaed materials assuredly include categories of information within the scope of executive privilege, the Committee's abrupt resort to a contempt votenotwithstanding ongoing negotiations about appropriate accommodationshas not allowed sufficient time for you to consider fully whether to make a conclusive assertion of executive privilege. The Chairman, however, has indicated that he intends to proceed with the markup session scheduled at 10 a.m. today on a resolution recommending a finding of contempt against me for failing to produce the requested materials. In these circumstances, you may properly assert executive privilege with respect to the entirety of the Department of Justice materials that the Committee has demanded, pending a final decision on the matter. As with President Clinton's assertion in 1996, you would be making only a preliminary, protective assertion of executive privilege designed to ensure your ability to make a final assertion, if necessary, over some or all of the subpoenaed materials. See Protective Assertion of Executive Privilege, 20 Op. O.L.C. at 1. As the Attorney General and head of the Department of Justice, I hereby respectfully request that you do so. Sincerely, William P. Barr Attorney General Read Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd's letter: U.S. government debt yields rose Wednesday as investors monitored trade relations between the U.S. and China and its potential impacts to momentum of the American economy. At around 2:47 p.m. ET, the yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note, which moves inversely to price, rose to 2.48%, while the yield on the 30-year Treasury bond climbed to 2.887%. Wall Street's renewed anxiety over negotiations between Beijing and Washington began Sunday, when President Donald Trump tweeted that current 10% tariffs on $200 billion of goods imported from China will be increased to 25% on Friday. Trump's weekend message which at the time appeared to come without provocation was preceded by a diplomatic document from China that included reversals that undermined key U.S. demands, Reuters reported Wednesday. In each of the seven chapters of the draft trade deal, Beijing reportedly removed commitments to change laws to remedy theft of intellectual property, reneged on access to financial services, and deleted agreements on currency manipulation. High-level Chinese and U.S. officials will meet in Washington over the next two days in an attempt to reach a permanent solution and avoid the telegraphed tax increase. Meanwhile, China's Commerce Ministry said later on Wednesday that Beijing will respond if the U.S. hikes tariffs to 25%. "The escalation of trade friction is not in the interests of the people of the two countries and the people of the world," the ministry said. "The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the US tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures." The U.S. flag flies at a welcoming ceremony between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump in 2017. Thomas Peter | Getty Images For all the political tensions about trade, American-based venture capitalists are still pouring money into Chinese start-ups. Venture capital flows between the U.S. and China hit an estimated $22 billion last year, topping the year's $18 billion in completed two-way foreign direct investment for the first time, according to a report released Wednesday by the U.S.-China Investment Project. The research initiative is led by Rhodium Group and the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations. The bulk of the start-up investments came from U.S.-owned firms, which roughly doubled their investments into Chinese companies between 2017 and 2018 to a record $19 billion, the report said. GET YOUR ESSENTIAL TECH INSIGHT FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE PODCAST SERIES Subscribe E-NEWSLETTER Sign up "In China, American investors continued to utilize minority VC investments in 2018 to gain exposure to sectors that are off limits to full blown foreign takeovers or have powerful informal market entry barriers, for example digital payments, internet startups and other digital content," the authors said. On the other hand, the research found Chinese foreign direct investment into the U.S. plunged more than 80% to just $5 billion last year, while American flows to China fell about 7% to $13 billion. Increased scrutiny from both governments on such cross-border investments, and Beijing's efforts to stem capital outflows and debt buildup by some major conglomerates contributed to the drop. The net effect is that U.S. firms invested more into China last year than the other way around, according to the report. One primary driver was renewed U.S. interest in Chinese real estate, including a search for distressed assets. Key deals in U.S. foreign direct investment into China's real estate sector, which more than doubled to over $3 billion in 2018 Blackstone's acquisition of Vivocity Mall. LaSalle's acquisition of Shanghai International Plaza. Warburg Pincus formed a $1 billion joint venture with Hande Group to pursue "special situations investments" in distressed Chinese real estate projects. Source: US-China Investment Project The researchers said they have a "positive" near-term outlook for U.S. foreign direct investment in China based on expected flow of deals. On the other hand, the researchers said Chinese investment appears relatively "depressed" but may be on an upward trend, given a 40% increase to $2.3 billion in the first quarter of this year from the final quarter of last year. "It should be noted that portfolio investment provides a new bright spot in the two-way investment relationship," Stephen A. Orlins, president of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations, wrote in a foreword to the report. "The high volume of flows in 2018 sends a clear signal that the commercial appetite for cross-border investment between our countries remains strong." However, regulations from both Beijing and Washington and China's economic slowdown remain uncertainties for investors. Beijing passed a new foreign investment law in March and is expected to announce a revised "negative list" in June, both of which could increase U.S. businesses' access to China and put foreign companies on a more level playing field with their local competitors. Critics note the new law is vague and that what happens in practice in China is often more restrictive than what is stated up front. The report also pointed out that the U.S. expanded its investment screening regime in August 2018 with the passage of the Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act, which allows the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to look at foreign investment stakes below 10%. That would target Chinese venture capital investment in U.S. start-ups. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration is trying to maintain an American edge in global technological development. The fall armyworm in Tha Muang, Thailand. Elaine Kurtenbach | AP A crop-eating pest first detected in China about five months ago is spreading rapidly and could hurt production of key crops critical to the populous nation's food supply, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Damage from the so-called fall armyworm, which gorges on corn, soybeans, cotton, rice, and dozens of other crops, could force China to import more corn, rice or soy to makeup for the shortfall. Before the U.S.-China trade war, China was importing about 60% of all U.S. soybean exports. The problem comes at a time when Chinese authorities have been trying to boost soybean production to reduce the need for imports. China now ranks as the world's largest importer of soybeans. China produces about 16 million tons of soybeans annually, but it imports more than 80 million tons each year of the commodity used commonly for animal feed and oils. The insect is now found in at least six provinces in China and the risk of it spreading is seen as high. "Private and government-affiliated crop protection experts in China report that FAW has spread much faster than they expected," USDA said in a report posted this week. USDA said most farmers in China lack the training and financial resources to manage against the armyworm effectively. It added "there is a high probability that the pest will spread across all of China's grain production area within the next 12 months." "It's going to be very severe initially until management programs are in place," said Allen Knutson, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service entomologist in Dallas. China is already dealing with a livestock crisis involving pork, one of its primary protein sources, putting Beijing is under greater pressure to respond to the armyworm. China has seen at least 129 cases of the African swine fever since August. Rabobank estimates up to 200 million animals could be affected and production could decline by 30%. As a result of the swine fever, China may need to increase the production of other proteins, including chicken. Also, the Asian country may be forced to boost imports of pork, including from the U.S. despite stiff retaliatory tariffs imposed by Beijing. Similarly, any major crop losses from the armyworm could force China in the coming years to look to imports for more of its corn, soybean, rice and other vital commodities. There are currently tariffs of 25% assessed on some key U.S. crops entering China, including soybeans. Beijing's current retaliatory tariffs on hundreds of U.S.-produced agricultural products already have led the Chinese to seek out other crop suppliers, including South America and European countries. And President Donald Trump's plan to boost tariffs against nearly all of China's imports could lead Beijing to respond with additional duties on U.S. agricultural products. China isn't the only country dealing with the armyworm. Knutsen, the entomologist, noted that voracious insect already is in other parts of the world, including North America and Africa. If Africa is any indication, the armyworm could become costly for China. The USDA said that since 2016 the pest "has caused extensive economic damage across Africa." In the U.S. and Mexico, meantime, the pest has been controlled mainly with chemical pesticides, although the bugs in some regions have developed a resistance to many insecticides. Also, the destructive insect is controlled in corn and cotton in the U.S. to some degree with genetically modified crops. "Officially, Chinese authorities have employed an emergency action plan to monitor and respond to the pest," USDA said in a recent report. It said the armyworm "has no natural predators in China and its presence may result in lower production and crop quality of corn, rice, wheat, sorghum, sugarcane, cotton, soybean, and peanuts among other cash crops." The armyworm was first detected in January in China and confirmed later that month by the ministry of agriculture, which said it was found in Yunnan province. USDA said it believes the armyworm entered China from neighboring Myanmar. The pest was found in India last year and then is believed to have spread to Bangladesh and Myanmar. WATCH: Former agriculture secretary on what farmers want India's oil imports from Iran fell about 57 percent year-on-year in April, according to tanker arrival data seen by Reuters, the last month when New Delhi was allowed to load Iranian oil ahead of US sanctions stopping purchases of oil from the OPEC member. India, Iran's top oil client after China, shipped in about 277,600 barrels per day (bpd) of oil from Tehran in April, down about 31.5 percent from the previous month, preliminary tanker arrival data from shipping and industry sources showed. The United States introduced sanctions in November but gave a six-month waiver to eight nations, including India, which allowed them to import some Iranian oil. India was allowed to buy an average 300,000 bpd of oil during November-April, but actual volumes varied from month to month due to lack of ships after foreign shipping lines backed out of Iranian deals under pressure from US sanctions. In April, Washington asked buyers of Iranian oil, mostly in Asia, to halt purchases or face sanctions. India is scheduled to get two very large crude carriers carrying 4 million barrels of Iranian oil this month - one each at Paradip in the east and Kochi in the west. The two vessels were loaded in April. Since November, when India received the sanctions waiver, only state-run Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum Corp, Hindustan Petroleum and Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals have been buying Iranian oil. India's overall imports from Iran in January to April 2019 fell nearly 45 percent to 304,500 bpd compared with 552,000 bpd a year ago, the data showed. The sources declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak with media. In this Oct. 3, 2018 photo, Democratic Congressional hopeful Xochitl Torres Small, right, greets supporters at the opening of her Sunland Park, New Mexico office. Federal documents show Torres Small raised more than three times as much money last quarter as Republican Yvette Herrell in a closely watched U.S. House race in southern New Mexico. (ANSA) - Traditionally resistant towards technology, the parking and garage sector is starting to open up to innovation and these developments can make a big contribution toward decreasing two of the main problems faced by big cities - urban mobility and security. In recent years the technology available for the optimization of the management of this type of business has development considerably, with number-plate readers, systems that stop windows being opened, automatic payment systems and applications to book parking spaces. "Until five to seven years ago, the biggest operators in this sector had been active for 30 years, but they have become more professional over the last decade," Fernando Braz, the editor of the Portal Parking magazine and specialist in parking issues, told ANSA. "Furthermore, some investment funds have acquired stakes in these companies and this has created new openings - the resistance is crumbling away". The magazine will organize the Parking Lab Expo, in Sao Paulo March 21-23 in collaboration with Cipa Fiera Milano. The latest developments for the garage and parking sector will be presented during the event running at the Sao Paulo Expo at the same time as the Exposec security fair. The Parking Lab Expo will also feature a congress at which issues regarding the sector's present and future will be discussed. One of the speakers will be Carolina Edelstein, the CEO of Coopark, who will give a presentation on "parking in the era of connectivity". Her platform, created in 2017, works on three fronts: advanced booking for parking spaces, the assignment of spaces for company employees and an application for automatic payments via a QR code. "The parking sector is very conservative, very old fashioned, but it is gradually opening up," explained Edelstein. "It's like what happened with Uber - car parks cannot stay as they are and, indeed, those who have realised that you can't stand still will have success". According to the entrepreneur, the fact that a person can book a parking space in advance can have a direct impact on improving traffic. "People don't realise but parking has a direct on our lives," she said. "On average 20% to 30% of traffic is made up of motorists looking for a parking space. "People go to the park, to a restaurant or to a meeting and they forget that you have to park to do so. "If a person knows where they are going to park, they don't have to drive around and traffic in the city diminishes". Braz also thinks that the current trend in this market regards connectivity. "Before you would go from one car park to another," he said. "Now there are dozens of applications that show where spaces are available and they make it possible to book one". Another development that helps urban mobility is the link up with companies that rent bicycles and kick scooters, according to Rodrigo Lucca, the executive director of Gruppo Verzani & Sandrini. "These are currently the best allies of the car parks in the quest to improve urban mobility," he said. His group, which will take part in the Parking Lab, owns VS Parking, a company that offers personalized solutions for the planning and management of car parks. "The technology has developed a lot in recent years," Lucca said. "The main solutions at the moment aim to reduce 'attrition' for the client so they have an agile experience, both on the way in and on the way out". THE FUTURE AND SECURITY Urban mobility is not the only area where technological developments can produce positive effects though: security, which is one of the main concerns in a country with a high crime level, can benefit from these processes too. One of the developments that can increase the user's sense of feeling protected is the automatic reading of car number plates, a system that is not yet very widespread in Brazil. "Today 95% of car parks use an automated system to issue tickets, but they do not link them to the registration plate," said Braz. "This can increase security a great deal for low cost in terms of the technology". In Sao Paulo, for example, there are projects in which car parks can get information about stolen cars and, if one of them takes up a space, keep it under control. Another factor that increases security is the reduced use of cash at the facilities. "Brazil has a high rate of thefts and robberies, but the figures in the parking sector are falling drastically and the main reason is the reduction in the use of cash, with payments migrating towards bank cars or direct transfers," Lucca said. "Intelligence monitoring systems connected to active centres also help avoid attempted felonies ar our outlets". Looking to the future, one of the things Braz is banking on is robotic car parks, which are common in other countries like China, but are in the infant stage in Brazil. In these car parks, the client leaves the car in a sort of lift, which guards and gives back the vehicle without any need for human intervention. According to the expert, there is still a degree of "fear" about these systems on the Brazilian market, but the prospective economic benefits will prevail. "There is still some fear, but sooner or later that will go away, because the cost of parking with this technology is plummeting and we'll get to the point where a robotic car park costs less than a conventional one," he explained. "In the end, the winning factor will be the price". All these solutions aim to reduce parking costs, with personnel that will become increasingly specialised. "Today there is a transition from manual controls, which require a greater human presence, towards technological solutions and, in turn, these workers are qualifying to work in operational and financial management, thus generating even better results," he said. The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission form You must be logged in to participate in the Show Me the Errors contest. Microsoft and Google laid out their respective visions for the next generation of virtual assistants this week, with enhancements to Cortana and Assistant, respectively, designed to support workplace productivity. Though voice assistants have yet to arrive in force in the workplace, analysts see plenty of potential. By 2021, 25% of digital workers are expected to use a virtual assistant on a daily basis, according to analyst firm Garner, up from 2% who do so now. On Monday at its Build developer conference, Microsoft offered a glimpse of where Cortana is headed, with plans for the virtual assistant to support more fluid, back-and-forth conversations. A demo video during Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella's keynote presentation showed an office worker managing a calendar via Cortana on a mobile device. In the demo, Cortana answers numerous questions and carries out multiple actions during a long, continuous interaction with the user that lasted more than 30 turns. That included viewing upcoming plans, scheduling and rescheduling meetings, checking availability and booking rooms. The user is also able to to pull in relevant information such as local weather and traffic information, and send directions to an in-car virtual assistant. Although Cortana can already carry out many of these actions, they tend to be done separately. Dialogue does not flow in a natural way. In spite of all the progress [with virtual assistants] you have to remember that most of the conversations we have today are still very brittle. They are not multi-turn. The context from turn to turn gets lost, Nadella said during his keynote. Human language is complex, the context is subtle, he said. So how do [we] make sure that the natural language capabilities inside these personal assistants is capable of having that shared context across long dialogue, versus just a few turns? The ability to engage in more complex and dynamic interactions improves on current iterations of AI assistants by keeping track of context, said Nadella. That advances follows from Microsofts purchase last year of Semantic Machines, a conversational AI startup. Appealing to business users Once the technology is integrated into Microsoft products, users will be able to retrieve information from a variety of applications, with Cortana acting as the interface. We want it to be less cognitive load, less feeling like, I have to go to PowerPoint for this or Word for that, or Outlook for this and Teams for that, and more about personal preferences and intents, Andrew Shuman, Microsofts corporate vice president for Cortana, said in a blog post. Microsoft is confident of Cortanas future in the office. Although its available on 800 million Windows 10 devices, it has largely failed to capture consumer mindshare as much as rivals. There are now plans to connect Cortana with other AI assistants rather than compete head-on; Microsoft struck a partnership with Amazon to integrate Cortana with Alexa in 2017. Patrick Moorhead, founder and president of Moor Insights & Strategy, said Microsoft has been wise to focus its attention on office duties rather than chasing the consumer market. I believe the business focus is the right move as this is what the company can win here, he said. I would question the companys chances in consumer. Microsoft has many of the most popular mobile apps with Office 365 and I believe if businesses offer a super-tuned Cortana for their work, workers will use it. JP Gownder, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester, said the Cortana updates can help Microsoft convince workers to use its virtual assistant more regularly as an interface with its applications. I think the new Cortana functionality makes sense making calendaring smarter, for example, he said. The new Cortana almost feels like a feature of Office rather than a stand-alone virtual assistant, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, Gownder said. Integrating Cortana's intelligence and natural language capabilities into common business applications like Office would save employees time and drive productivity improvements. He noted Microsoft still needs to show it can deliver on the promise of more natural conversations showcased in the Cortana demo. Conversational intelligence is far too challenging for us to take their word for it. Google unveils smarter, faster Assistant Microsoft is not the only tech firm hoping to popularize virtual assistants in the workplace. Amazon has Alexa for Business as its beachhead into the enterprise, offering management tools to support deployments of thousands of Echo devices into offices and meeting rooms. Apple, whose strategy relies on sales of HomePod devices, has not shown a strong intention to target Siri at the workplace yet. It did, however, announce a partnership with Salesforce last year that will see the CRM vendor integrate Siri deeper into its mobile apps, which are often used by sales and marketing professionals. And Apples reputation for stringent protection of customer data could help allay privacy worries about deploying voice-activated assistants in the office. Meanwhile, Google Assistant, typically seen as the strongest competitor to Alexa in the consumer arena, has indicated plans to tailor its virtual assistant for business use. That lines up with plans, announced at Google Cloud Next last month, to link Assistant with calendars in G Suite, Googles business productivity app suite. At this weeks Google I/O developer conference, the company talked up the next generation of Google Assistant, which is faster and more personal. By running machine learning models locally on a user device, such as Googles Pixel smartphones (where it will appear later this year), the new Google Assistant should deliver results up to 10 times quicker than via Googles cloud servers. That means processing speech with close to zero latency, allowing transcriptions to occur in real time, for example. This has been made possible by advances in deep learning that enables the machine learning models required for speech recognition and language understanding to be condensed from 100GB to less than half a gigabyte, Google CEO Sundar Pichai said during his keynote presentation. It makes the assistant so fast that tapping to use your phone would seem slow. I think this is going to transform the future of the Assistant, Pichai said. That lets users quickly switch from different tasks, such as checking the weather, playing music, ordering taxis, setting timers, as well as opening, navigating and sharing data between apps instantly. The ability to run some or all of the data processing on devices is important for three reasons: faster response time; improved security and privacy as sensitive data doesnt leave the device; and less dependency on connectivity bandwidth, said Annette Jump, senior director analyst at Gartner. And in an office environment? "In the workplace, it can certainly help with storing sensitive data around passwords, voice authentication, etc., locally, she said. In the next few years, Google Assistant can also control [a] broader range of smart devices in the office, like lights, conference room devices, heating, smart screens/boards. A demo during the I/O keynote also showed how Google Assistant can draft and send emails using only voice commands, which requires the assistant to discern when a user is selecting a subject title, writing a greeting and moving to the next line of text. The company also offered updates to Googles Duplex technology, showcased at last years I/O, which can make restaurant reservations on behalf of a user. Duplex will soon be extended to the web, the company said Tuesday. Initial use cases include automated booking of online car rentals, with information including dates of the trip and even type of car and entered on behalf of the user, who can then confirm the details before finalizing. Those actions are carried out via Google Assistant. As virtual assistants become more commonplace, both in work and home environments, it's likely Google Assistant will become more entwined with work apps. Voice interactions are very natural to humans and as we start using more VPA speakers in our homes, we would find the desire to use voice as a way of interaction with devices in the workplace, too (like with touch interfaces), said Jump. ...I would expect Assistant to be integrated in more productivity apps and devices from Google and be used by both mainstream office workers, as well as front-line workers or remote workers using new type of devices, like smart glasses or VR-headsets. Mac versions of Microsoft's Edge browser leaked this week, as did the first Beta build for Windows 10. Microsoft has yet to officially launch any version of its reworked browser other than Canary and Dev for Windows 10, which went public a month ago. Frequent Windows leaker WalkingCat, also known by his Twitter account @h0x0d, tweeted the download links for the Canary and Dev builds of Edge on macOS on May 6. A day later, @ADeltaForce revealed the download location for the Windows 10's Beta. Like Google Chrome - also based on open-source Chromium technologies - Edge releases in multiple builds representing increasingly more polished and stable versions of the browser. Canary, the least reliable, is updated daily, while the Dev version refreshes weekly. Beta and Stable builds appear every six weeks. Edge has yet to reach Stable, and Microsoft has not disclosed a timetable for when the browser will. Edge is also slated to be available for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 at some point. The Dev and Beta versions on Windows 10 identified themselves as 75.0.139.5 and 75.0.139.7, respectively, indicating that Microsoft is now working with Chromium's version 75. Google's Stable build upgraded to version 74 two weeks ago, and its Beta was promoted to 75 last Thursday (specifically version 75.0.3770.18). In Chrome's cadence, which Microsoft intends to replicate with Edge, a new Stable build normally appears about four to five weeks after the same version number has reached Beta. (Chrome 75 Stable is slated to debut June 4, four and a half weeks after its launch in Beta.) If Edge were on a standard schedule - it's not - and the Beta was given to Insider participants tomorrow, it would probably hit Stable on June 11. It won't; Microsoft hasn't said anything definitive about a launch date. (ANSA) - Rome, May 7 - Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said Tuesday that the differences between his League party and its coalition partner, the 5-Star Movement (M5S), were not limited to the case of probed Transport Ministry Undersecretary Armando Siri. Salvini has defended Siri, a League member who denies any wrongdoing in a corruption probe, but the M5S has been pressing hard for him to be removed. Premier Giuseppe Conte has said he will propose that Siri be sacked at the next cabinet meeting, which is set to take place Wednesday. "It seems clear to me that there is a rift with the M5S and not just on this (issue)," Salvini told Mediaset television. "There are different viewpoints on the TAV (Turin-Lyon high-speed rail link), on autonomy (for some regions) and immigration". But Deputy Premier and 5-Star Movement (M5S) leader Luigi Di Maio stood his ground. He also said that said the Tangentopoli (bribesville) corruption scandal that brought down Italy's post-war political establishment in the 1990s never really ended as he lumped the Siri case with new probes involving Forza Italia members in Lombardy and the Calabria Governor Mario Oliverio of the centre-left Democratic Party (PD). "Tangentopoli never ended," said Di Maio. "I want to make an appeal for unity. Let's raise a wall against corruption. "Those who do wrong are out. "(PD leader Nicola) Zingaretti should oust Oliverio. FI should expel its members (who are probed). "And I make a final appeal to the League - get Siri to quit and don't make it come to a showdown. A reaction from the political world is needed". MDIS graduates weaves powerful social messages into fashion design pieces From inclusivity to sustainability, Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) Graduate Fashion Show 2019 featured design collections informed by powerful social messages. Themed Singularity, the show is a culmination of the best works created by 10 young designers as part of their graduation showcase on Friday, May 3, 2019. 'Singularity' featured 10 young designers from the Management Development Institute of Singapore. Photo courtesy: MDIS The designers drew inspirations from iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort in India, Dominion Building in Moscow. They also incorporated important social messages in their work, including women empowerment, modesty in fashion and environmental awareness. Meghna Sharma's collection was inspired by the concept of Shakti. Photo courtesy: MDIS One of the designers is Meghna Sharma, an Indian raised in Indonesia. She revisited her homeland in search of her roots and inspiration for her collection. In her journey, she was motivated to create modest wear that empowers women in a bid to bring awareness to gender equality and violence against women. Shakti, a representation of divine feminine energy in Hinduism, formed the conceptual basis of Meghna's collection. My collection draws inspiration from women who have lived valiantly in a society where they are harshly critiqued. The design emphasises on creating a feminine yet powerful silhouette that celebrates the liberation of women, she said. The winner of the Best Academic Award, Miss Nur Ili Binte Norazip, presented Fractals, a collection inspired by the Shah Mosque in Iran. She hopes to open up more meaningful conversations about the concept of modesty and the lacking representation of Muslim women in fast fashion through her works. She explained, I aim to challenge stereotypes and show possibilities in modest fashion. I hope this collection can contribute to getting more people to think about greater inclusivity and diversity in fashion. 'Fractals' by Miss Nru Ili Binte Norazip hopes to open up meaningful conversations on the concept of modesty in Islam. Photo courtesy: MDIS Miss Ng Pei Shi Amanda took home the Best Collection Award for demonstrating excellence in originality, workmanship and techniques used with Genesis. Inspired by the most primitive art form of cave paintings of Chauvet in southern France, the collection is a contemporary interpretation of the hand painted prints and shadowing in Palaeolithic cave art. 'Genesis' by Amanda Ng Pei Shi presents a merger of contemporary prints with ancient cave art. Photo courtesy: MDIS Amanda incorporated the concept of sustainable fashion through the intentional layering of scrap fabrics and yarn in her design to mirror the life of prehistoric humans who used basic materials they saw or possessed. The purpose of my design is two-fold: raising awareness for sustainable fashion by giving scrap materials a new lease of life and discovering the depth of historical art, said Amanda. Concluding the Graduate Fashion Show as a representative of the judging panel, Mr Fabio Panzeri, Creative Director of Braun Buffel, said, We saw really interesting themes and messages in these 10 collections. The young designers stayed true to their passion, and their creative directions did not blindly follow market trends and demands. Such bravery is important as they continue in their journey to be professional fashion designers. Here are some highlights from the event: 'Singularity' features 10 young designers from MDIS fashion design course. Photo courtesy: MDIS Meghna Sharma's collection was inspired by her trip to her hometown, India. Photo courtesy: MDIS 'Nascondere' by Phan My Linh. Photo courtesy: MDIS 'Nascondere' by Phan My Linh. Photo courtesy: MDIS 'Cnqueer Conqueered' by Eugene Choo. Photo courtesy: MDIS Suvadugal: Chronicles of great Singaporean Indians who built the Lion City The ongoing bicentennial celebrations of Singapore will now be infused with saga of those Indian men and women who worked to build what Singapore is today. The contributions and achievements of businessmen such as Naraina Pillai and Kartar Singh Thakral, statesmen including President SR Nathan and Sinnathamby Rajaratnam, intellectuals like Prof SS Ratnam and artistes such as Madhavi Krishnan, who enriched the island nation's heritage over two centuries, is finely depicted in the TV documentary series Suvadugal to be broadcast from May 14 on Vasantham, Mediacorp's free-to-air Tamil TV channel. The series will introduce the audience to the historic lives of some of the most prominent Indian origin personalities in Singapore over the past two centuries. Photo courtesy: VisualBeatz "Suvadugal revolves around the legends, pioneers and trendsetters of Singapore who have made great strides in all stratum of society in their chosen profession, sports, social, cultural, civic, charity, politics, education and others. They have in the process contributed significantly to the Singapore success story," said Naveen Selvanayagam, Director, VisualBeatz, who is also producing the series. Suvadugal has been created to acquaint present and future generations to the heroes who contributed greatly towards nation building. It also celebrates the wisdom and foresight of its pioneers and subsequent Indians contributions to Singapores phenomenal growth. The Director briefing the cast and crew ahead of shooting the series. Photo courtesy: VisualBeatz Each episode will explore one pioneers life, challenges and how they overcame them in an attempt to chronicle the Indians historical contributions and achievements towards the island nation into a single entity. So get ready to learn more about Singapore's leading lights over the years in this multi-episode production. Episodic Breakdown Episode 01 Naraina Pillai Shooting a scene with Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles (left) and Naraina Pillai (2nd from left) and some Sepoys. Apart from being a businessman and a close friend of Raffles, Pillai was also helping the latter in the British administration of Penang. Photo courtesy: VisualBeatz When Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles made his second trip to Singapore in May 1819, he had in his esteemed retinue a certain personality called Naraina Pillai who arrived in Singapore together with him. Apart from being a businessman and a close friend of Raffles, Pillai was also helping the latter in the British administration of Penang. At Raffles request, Pillai agreed to accompany him to Singapore for possible business ventures and at the same time assist with administrative services in Singapore. Episode 02 G Sarangapany G Sarangapany co-founded the Tamil Reform Association and headed it until his demise on March 16, 1974. Photo courtesy: roots.sg Also known by his honorific name Thamizavel, G Sarangapany was the founding publisher-cum-managing editor of Tamil Murasu, a Tamil newspaper established in 1935 in Malaya and Singapore and the only Tamil daily which continues its run in Singapore till today. Sarangapany co-founded the Tamil Reform Association and headed it until his demise on March 16, 1974. Episode 03 SR Nathan Rehearsing the sequence where SR Nathan served as a JApanese translator during World War 2, with period uniforms and costumes. Photo courtesy: VisualBeatz Sellapan Ramanathan was born on July 3, 1924. He was elected uncontested as the sixth President of Singapore and sworn in on September 1, 1999. He was again elected unopposed in his second term in 2005. He was the longest-serving President when he finished his term on August 31, 2011. Episode 04 Sinnathamby Rajaratnam Sinnathamby Rajaratnam. Photo courtesy: MINDEF S Rajaratnam had the distinction of being the PAP governments first Indian office-bearer holding many important ministerial portfolios. He was Singapore's first Culture Minister, Foreign Minister, and also held the Labour portfolio. He was also the first Indian Deputy Prime Minister and Senior Minister. As one of the founding fathers of the ruling Peoples Action Party, he was a renowned and revered party stalwart. The man who crafted the National Pledge is also credited with navigating the nation through its tenuous times after independence in 1965, at many international forays. Episode 05 Prof SS Ratnam The list of Professor Ratnam's achievements is by no means exhaustive. From placing Singapore on the world map to performing the first sex change operation, Ratnam's tenure is best remembered at Singapore's General Hospital for the worldwide recognition it received. Ratnam is also known as the founder of the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) programme in Singapore. In 1983, he led a medical team to produce Asia's first test-tube baby by introducing IVF in Singapore, bringing hope to many childless couples. In 1996, Ratnam was appointed as Emeritus Professor, one of the highest Honours at the NUS. In 2002, in recognition of Ratnam's commitment to teaching and training in AOFOG, the SSR foundation was established in Singapore to provide obstetric ultrasound teaching in member states of AOFOG. A Professor SS Ratnam Memorial Fund was also set up to help needy children. Episode 06 Kartar Singh Thakral The cast and crew of Suvadugal with Kartar Singh Thakral. Photo courtesy: VisualBeatz Among the titans of Singapore, Kartar Singh Thakral stands out in the Indian community's business fraternity. Rightfully, Thakral found a respectable place in the book Not Born in Singapore Fifty Personalities Who Shaped the Nation published in November 2015, by the Institute of Public Studies at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. A savvy businessman, Thakral turned a small local textile offshoot of the family into a roaring multinational empire. Though these defining moments were challenging, the patriarch of one of Singapore's greatest business stories confesses with a smile that he enjoyed every moment of it. In his philosophical musing, he labels challenges as something to be relished for they are life's best lessons. Episode 07 Madhavi Krishnan Madhavi Krishnan. Photo courtesy: nas.edu.sg Madhavi Krishnan, born in 1941 in Singapore, is a pioneer in local Indian classical dance and choreography. Trained in the classical dance traditions of Bharatanatyam and Kathakali in Singapore and India, she founded the National Dance Company in 1970 and, through it, created works that integrated Indian classical dance forms with multicultural influences. When the Cultural Medallion made its debut in 1979, she numbered amongst its recipients and became the first dancer as well as the first female recipient of the prestigious national award. Episode 08 K Jayamani When she was 19, she made her debut in national level competitions at the Singapore Open. Although her results were not good, the experience proved valuable. It made me realise that I had to work so much harder if I wanted to win medals, she says. That realisation not only marked a turning point in her career. It would come to define her road to success. In just a few short years, she, under coach Maurice Nicholas, would go on to win regional medals in her pet events (1500m and 3000m), earning her the nickname Queen of the Track. She was named Sportswoman of the Year in 1977 and 1981. In 1982, she clocked national records for both the 1500m (4:31.2) and 3000m (9:56.6) records which are still unbroken today. May given until teatime to set out her plan to leave Downing Street Theresa May has been given up until 4pm today to plan out a road map to her resignation as leader of the Tories or be forced to accept one made for herSir Graham Brady, chairman of the 1922 Committee of Conservative backbenchers, set out the plans last night as backbenchers patience wore thin with the Prime Minister. It is thought that Sir Graham has given her until the start of the 1922 meeting at 4pm today to set out her own departure from Downing Street. Under a scenario discussed by the 1922 Committee last month, Mrs May will stand down as leader after the May 23 election but stay on as Prime Minister. If Mrs May refuses to set out her own exit plans then the committee would attempt to set out their own for her departure. The Sun >Today: ToryDiary: No change, no chance The Euro elections will go ahead (despite Tory leaflets suggesting otherwise) Theresa May is facing another election humiliation this time at the hands of Nigel Farages Brexit Party after it was confirmed the UK cannot avoid holding costly Euro elections later this month. Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington, the de facto deputy prime minister, said that despite weeks of gruelling cross-party talks with Labour ministers there was now not enough time to get Brexit done and dusted before they take place on May 23. Mr Farages party has soared into a nine-point poll lead as the Tories and Labour both falter and seems certain to steal seats from the Prime Ministers party.. Tories have pointed out online that election leaflets have already been sent out saying that the elections can be avoided if a Brexit deal was passed beforehand. Daily Mail >Today: Robert Halfons column: Does Mays selfish machine care at all about the Partys future or the thousand plus councillors who lost their seats? >Yesterday: ToryDiary: ConHomes survey. Our panel and the European elections. Three in five Tory members will still vote for the Brexit Party. Verhofstadts staff are filmed swearing about UK politicians May is labelled insane and pathetic by the EUs chief Brexit negotiators in a damaging BBC fly-on-the-wall film. Brexit: Behind Closed Doors shows members of the European Parliaments Brexit coordinating team, led by Belgian Guy Verhofstadt, mocking Britain and launching foul-mouthed rants at the PM. When Guillaume McLaughlin, Verhofstadts chief of staff, is told that a Brexit deal is off because Mrs May hasnt cleared the details with DUP leader Arlene Foster, he rages: What the f*** is wrong with her. Thats insane. I dont know, I havent spoken to her? Thats ridiculous. Pathetic, pathetic. Watching Mrs May give her Tory party conference leaders speech, in which she says she wants a deal, McLaughlin shouts at the screen: Oh, f*** off. He is backed up by Edel Rettman Crosse, Verhofstadts top aide. After a row over the Irish border question with Leave-supporting MP Andrew Rosindell, she tells Verhofstadt: Im most proud of you when you take on a Tory. He was a f***er. She adds: I was delighted. You should shoot the f***er out. The Sun >Today: Justine Greening on Comment: The only way out of this mess is a referendum with Remain and No Deal on the ballot paper too Brokenshire: The high street must shrink and change to survive Struggling high streets must become shorter to survive, the Communities Secretary declared last night. James Brokenshire said councils had to accept that online was here to stay and hand over empty shops for housing in order to boost footfall for the shops that are left. He said there was a limit to how much the Government could do to help save the high streets and said a lot was up to town halls. Speaking to the Sun Mr Brokenshire called for long sprawling high streets to be reinvigorated by creating more compact centres with more people living alongside and above shops. Setting out his vision for how to help high streets adapt, he suggested centres become the new smart communities providing services people cant do or get from their sofas. More GP surgeries, cafes, community theatres and more community centres could be built to draw more people to the heart of town centres, the Cabinet minister said. The Sun IPSA tried to prevent reporting of the fact 377 MPs have had their expenses cards suspended The inside story of the original expenses scandal Daily Telegraph After a decade, MPs still havent learned their lesson Daily Telegraph Leader Will they ever get it? Leo McKinstry, Daily Mail Series of data breaches at the DVLA Daily Mail Digital ID system for public services is deemed to be failing The Times MPs propose personal budgets for dementia patients Parliaments spending watchdog tried to prevent the public being told that 377 MPs, including nine Cabinet ministers and Jeremy Corbyn, have had their official credit cards suspended for breaking the rules on expenses. Exactly 10 years after The Telegraphs original investigation into MPs expenses, the body set up to ensure greater transparency in the wake of the scandal has been accused of trying to prevent openness, rather than ensuring it. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority tried to stop disclosure of MPs use of Parliamentary credit cards on the grounds it would have a chilling effect on its relationship with MPs and reduce public confidence in the regulatory system. But a former High Court judge reversed the decision. Daily Telegraph Dementia patients must be given part of a 2.4 billion NHS fund to help with unfair and unsustainable care costs, MPs will say today. A cross-party group of 68 MPs demanded sufferers be given a personal budget of thousands of pounds a year. This could be spent on the care costs required to live with the disease such as home adaptations and care home costs which are up to 15 per cent more expensive for patients with dementia as they are deemed more difficult to look after. Daily Mail GPs seeing too many patients Daily Mail The number of EU-trained nurses in the NHS has fallen by 5,000 The Guardian Javid has banned extremists from the UK eight times The rise of far right extremism in the UK FT London Bridge victims families deserve an answer Daily Telegraph Leader The inquest begins The Times Leader MoD plans new defence capabilities in space The Times Scotland raises the age of criminal responsibility from eight to 12 Sajid Javid has revealed he has used his powers to ban hate preachers from the UK eight times as he pledged to crack down on extremism from both Islamists and the far Right. Announcing a package of security measures to help protect places of worship from terror attacks after the New Zealand and Sri Lanka atrocities, the Home Secretary said he would not hesitate to use his powers to stop hate preachers stirring up tension in the UK. As Home Secretary I can exclude a foreign national from entering the UK if I believe their presence would not be conducive to the public good I have used that power eight times since I became Home Secretary, he told the Commons. Among far right activists to have been banned in the past year are three activists with big social media followings from Austria, Canada and the US. Daily Telegraph Scotlands age of criminal responsibility has been raised from eight to 12 years after a controversial vote in Holyrood, which saw the government blasted for undermining the Scottish Parliaments right to claim leadership on human rights issues. The Scottish Government says the legislation will see Scotland lead the way in the UK in terms of ending the treatment of children under the age of 12 as criminals when an offence is committed. The age of criminal responsibility (ACR) in the rest of the UK is ten years. But an attempt to have the ACR raised to 14, by Scottish Liberal Democrat Alex Cole-Hamilton, was resoundingly defeated. The Scotsman Labours income plan would be a revolution requiring a swathe of new taxes Unfortunately for Corbyn, the popular revolt is not looking very left-wing Rafael Behr, The Guardian If he wants to nationalise Royal Mail, will he really try to rip off unionised worker shareholders? The Guardian Browns gold sale was worst investment of modern times Daily Mail Eco protester did thousands of pounds of damage to university The Times Incoherent climate aid policy criticised The Times Police investigate UKIP candidates rape comments about Phillips The Sun Iran steps away from the nuclear deal Plans under consideration by Labour for a minimum flat-rate income for everyone would require a swath of new taxes to fund it, according to the author of a report commissioned by shadow chancellor John McDonnell. Guy Standing, professor at development studies at the School of Oriental and African Studies, said it was time for revolutions, not tinkering as he set out the case for a new universal basic income to narrow grotesque levels of inequality in the UK. He said that any government implementing the controversial policy would have to raise extra revenues and suggested that this could be achieved with new taxes, including a new land-value tax, new environmental tax and digital information levies. FT Iran announced on Wednesday it would stop implementation of some commitments under its 2015 nuclear accord in response to US withdrawal from the agreement and other signatories failure to deliver on economic incentives. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a live televised address that his government was going to take measures outlined in a dispute resolution mechanism included in the nuclear deal. In a step-by-step process, Iran will stop selling excess heavy water produced in the uranium enrichment process and will no longer swap enriched uranium for mined uranium yellow cake over the next two months. Mr Rouhani added that Iran would resume these commitments if the UK, France, Germany, Russia and China could find a mechanism for Iran to sell oil and handle banking transactions within the next two months. FT News in Brief Ben Roback is Head of Trade and International Policy at Cicero Group. The Mueller report has cast a long shadow over much of President Trumps time in office. The Department of Justice released a 448-page report, split into two volumes Russian interference during the 2016 campaign; and the results of the Special Counsels investigation into allegations of obstruction of justice by Trump. Washington was absorbed almost entirely by the report in the days after it was released, but now that the dust has settled, we are able to take a longer view and consider its lasting implications. First, there is a chance that the Mueller investigation gets lost in the frenetic news cycle that surrounds Washington politics. A Google Trends search of Robert Mueller in the United States shows how interest peaked on March 24th, the day Attorney General William Barr made public a short summary of the Special Counsels key findings. The headline on that day was that there was no evidence that President Trump or any of his aides coordinated with the Russian governments 2016 election interference. Interest since then has risen and fallen, but intriguingly has tracked closely to a Google Trends analysis for impeachment. Whilst this is an unscientific comparison, it helps illustrate how the public links Mueller and the prospects for the Presidents impeachment. The Democratic impact: To impeach or not to impeach? With a constantly expanding field of Democrats seeking the 2020 presidential nomination, the publication of the Mueller report provides an important litmus test for leadership candidates. We have already seen divergence amongst the frontrunners who are seeking to answer the question: To impeach, or not to impeach? The ongoing problem for Nancy Pelosi, the most powerful Democrat on the Hill, is that her caucus remains torn in both the short and long term between arguments for and against impeachment. Trump is goading us to impeach him, Speaker Pelosi has said, arguing that any attempt to do so would solidify the Presidents base going into the 2020 campaign. She is right on both counts. A long list of Democrats making the case for initiating impeachment proceedings argue that past acts by the President are impeachable, as outlined in the Mueller report. Crucially, note the Special Counsel left the door open for Congress to act on obstruction charges, writing that it can validly regulate the Presidents exercise of official duties to prohibit actions motivated by a corrupt intent to obstruct justice. From the 2020 field, Sen. Elizabeth Warren has called for the impeachment process to begin immediately and Joe Biden has said that Congress has no alternative but to pursue impeachment if Trump continues to block its efforts to follow up on the Special Counsels investigation. Other Democrats of this view include Senator Kamala Harris and Rep Seth Moulton. Of the above, Harris has explicitly linked the fallout from the Mueller report with her campaign. Her 2020 website calls for supporters to make a donation if they agree Attorney General Bill Barr should resign. Looking ahead, we should expect more Democratic candidates in this bracket to make impeachment central to their campaign messaging and fundraising strategies. More cautious Democrats in the 2020 field are of the opinion that any attempt to impeach will inevitably fail in the Senate, where Republicans enjoy a majority, and so attempts to do so in the House would prove the Presidents argument that Democrats are being obstructionists. Mayor Pete Buttigieg, who adorns the cover of this months Time magazine, remains on the fence, having argued: I think hes made it pretty clear that he deserves impeachment but plans to leave it to the House and Senate to figure that out. Bernie Sanders wants to talk about policy issues like healthcare and climate change, not Trump and Trump, Trump, Trump and Mueller, Mueller, Mueller. The GOP impact: Clarity in 2020 No collusion! No obstruction! had been Trumps mantra throughout the Special Counsels investigation, and with the publication of the report he feels even more emboldened to absolve himself of any wrongdoing. That appeared somewhat at odds with the Special Counsels conclusions, given Mueller had been following the longstanding Department of Justice view that says a sitting president cannot be indicted. And so Mueller wrote that the report does not exonerate the President and he cannot be charged while president. In short, he was let off by the Special Counsel on a technicality. Trump appears unmoved by the prospects of impeachment. Asked about whether he was worried about it during a White House Easter event, he replied: Not even a little bit. Despite that casual attitude, the President has sent 142 tweets containing Mueller since December 2017 and 20 tweets containing the word impeach since becoming president. Whilst Harris is seeking to fundraise on the basis of calls for impeachment, the 2020 Trump campaign sent out a series of fundraising emails making calls to investigate Democrats. Campaign coffers are filling up on the back of the Special Counsels report. Meanwhile, the fallout from the Mueller report has not hurt the President in the polls, which might begin to explain his confidence. Approval of Trumps job performance remains relatively high. After jumping from 39 per cent in early March to 45 per cent in the first half of April, his approval rating was 46 per cent in Gallups latest poll (April 17th-30th). That 46 per cent approval rating is narrowly worse than Obamas (49 per cent) but far behind George W. Bushs (69 per cent) at the same point in their first terms. Messaging matters Clarity of messaging matters. The Presidents simple statement No collusion! No obstruction! is equivalent to Nigel Farages Brexit Party. Whereas the variety of Democratic views impeach now / impeach later / dont impeach lets talk about healthcare instead is equivalent to Change UK / The Independent Group / #RemainAlliance. The Democratic leadership is struggling to maintain a common position on the fallout of the Mueller investigation, whilst the prospects for impeachment will become a critical issue for 2020 candidates. With a staggering 91 per cent approval rating amongst Republican voters and no imminent threat of 2020 primary challenge, the Presidents messaging is expected to be carried by Republicans on the Hill and spun effectively by the White House. Democrats risk overplaying their hand and focussing on a Washington issue when the voting public wants to hear about kitchen table politics. For Trump, anything that reinforces a siege mentality will create fertile ground on the 2020 campaign. Justine Greening: The only way out of this mess is a referendum with Remain and No Deal on the ballot paper too Justine Greening is a former Secretary of State for Education, and is MP for Putney. Local election results show that Cabinet indecision is hollowing out support for the Conservative Party, and thats even before the new Brexit Party has fielded a candidate. Last summer, it was clear that the Prime Ministers halfway house Brexit deal was the worst of all worlds, unlikely to carry public opinion or a Parliamentary vote. Yet the Cabinet carried on regardless in the face of opinion polls showing it is even less popular than the poll tax, with just 12 per cent public support. Nine months later, Cabinet are still no further forward in their Brexit analysis. Their unwillingness to take political decisions in the real world makes them increasingly look like the the political equivalent of captains on the Titanic, simultaneously rearranging the deck chairs whilst also blaming the iceberg for not getting out of the way. As we saw in the local elections, this position is sinking our Party and it must change. Their head in the sand approach has directly led to the establishment of the Brexit Party, pitching itself as the party of Brexit means Brexit and they werent even fighting the recent local elections. Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats are now resurgent, capitalising on the millions of people who feel Brexit is a mess, or who never wanted to leave the EU in the first place. The party faces an attack on both flanks. Cabinet Ministers conveniently interpret the election results as a message to get on with it and go full steam ahead with their halfway house Brexit approach, but if the it is a deal with Jeremy Corbyn, thats been anathema to Conservative voters and activists. Its just as well that its also beyond Corbyn to take a decision on Brexit that cuts across his Labour Party so theyre paying the price too. But the country has clearly had enough of Brexit fudge. The latest Government spin is to call any different views extreme. Thats a deeply unconstructive approach to engaging in the debate about what comes next on such a key decision for Britain. Whats needed now is both realism and pragmatism. Realism about Parliamentary gridlock and the publics rejection of a halfway house Brexit. Pragmatism that a Conservative Government narrowly passing a customs union version of Brexit, but reliant on two thirds of the Parliamentary support coming from Labour MPs, is not a sustainable strategy. To have such a controversial approach to Brexit, passed in such a way by Parliament, wont bring the public on side or the country back together. The biggest fallacy of all is that if we can just get the Prime Ministers deal over the line well have done Brexit and we can get on to all the other things people really care about. Cabinet Ministers now routinely make this case. This is completely unrealistic. As Government has to re-engineer Britain post Brexit, it will dominate our politics for the next decade. We should be frank about that and the fact that it inevitably squeezes the political bandwidth for other issues, from the improved social mobility I campaign for through the Social Mobility Pledge, to housing, social care and everything else. And we should also be realistic that polling analysis is clear that our Brexit stance deters voters under the age of 45 from supporting us. The Conservative Party has always been prepared to be upfront about the challenges our country faces. In 2010, we took a decision to be honest about the disastrous state of the nations finances being left by Labour. I was part of that incoming Treasury team that produced an emergency budget to save Britain from the brink of bankruptcy. But we had to keep winning the argument about why it mattered every week, to keep the public with us. Tackling the deficit wasnt a moment and neither is Brexit. Its more than just a vote in Parliament. For Brexiteers, I recognise the political difficulty of the position that a soft Brexit strategy has got us into. But its clear too now that Parliament will not vote through a hard Brexit. If the Conservative Party gets a new leader who supports hard Brexit, they could of course try to change the Parliamentary maths by calling another general election, but its a roll of the dice that could see us out of power, unable to deliver anything, having handed the keys of Number Ten to Jeremy Corbyn. My view is that the only way therell ever be a deliverable mandate for a WTO Brexit that can get though Parliament is if its the consensus of the way forward from the British people from a confirmatory referendum. Ministers need to be pragmatic that Parliament is deadlocked. This Brexit Parliament has rejected every Brexit option hard or soft. The only people who can now decide are the public themselves in a confirmatory vote. All three principal options should be on the ballot WTO Brexit, the Prime Ministers soft Brexit Deal, and Remain, with a first and second preference vote. The result should be binding, triggering a Revoke Article 50 letter, a Withdrawal Agreement Bill passed unamended or a WTO rules departure, depending on the result. A confirmatory vote is the only way well really find out what route forward people really want, and the irreversibility of the next step means its only sensible to ask. There is no pain-free option now. Its not extreme to give people a choice on a ballot paper in a democracy, especially when the Government has exhausted all other Parliamentary routes. Given where Brexit has now got to, a confirmatory referendum may be the only compromise that can gain a consensus from MPs finally having all the real options on a ballot paper. If Ministers have another way to break the Parliamentary gridlock, beyond hoping that our opponents bail us out, they should be clear what it is. In the meantime they should understand how damaging their failure to find a route is to the Conservative Party, as last weeks election results show so starkly. Every day they procrastinate, the party pays the price. Balkans summit in Tirana with Mogherini EU bilaterals with region's leaders, focus on integration (ANSAmed) - BRUSSELS, MAY 8 - The European perspective for the western Balkans, strengthening of regional cooperation and unresolved disputes in the region are at the center of a regional summit on Thursday in the Albanian capital Tirana. Taking part will be the presidents of Slovenia, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo. EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini will also attend and will be arriving in the city on Wednesday afternoon. Mogherini will meet on Wednesday with Albanian president Ilir Meta and Prime Minister Edi Rama. She will also have bilateral meetings with political leaders in the region and will open the premiere of Verdi's ''Il Trovatore'' at the National Ballet and Opera Theater of Tirana, an initiative that is part of the 2019 Europe Week. The regional summit is being held as part of the Brdo-Brioni Process, started in 2013 by the presidents of Slovenia and Croatia, both EU nations, aiming to foster European integration of all Balkan states. (ANSAmed). 73% Website fastfreeproxy.info uses latest and advanced technologies like: Php. It supports HTTPS. The main html page has a size of 7024 bytes (6.86 kb uncompressed). This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-08-14, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. 83% Website kepguru.hu uses latest and advanced technologies like: JQuery. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 23680 bytes (23.13 kb uncompressed) and 4810 bytes (4.70 kb compressed). This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-08-17, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. 100% Website odnoklassniki.ru uses latest and advanced technologies like: Boostrap. It is very popular on the web, it's within the 1 million most visited websites of the world at position 39 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 174859 bytes (170.76 kb uncompressed) and 37877 bytes (36.99 kb compressed). This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-12-12, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. Taking it to the streets On Wednesday May 1 in Sydney, an estimated 20,000 workers took illegal action by stopping work to reclaim May Day, the International Workers Day. They marched through the streets with demands to Change the Rules, put Safety Before Profits and for the abolition of the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC). Photo: Anna Pha Members of the CFMEU construction, Maritime Union of Australia, Electrical Trades Union and Australian Manufacturing Workers Union who took this courageous and militant action were not cowered by the rising attacks on trade unions or the risk of penalties of up to $42,000 for those in the construction sector. Then at the weekend of May 4-5 and on the Monday in Queensland, May Day rallies and marches were held across Australia, echoing the demand to Change the Rules and to do that, to Change the Government (see May Day Fremantle WA We fight for the future). Other demands included full restoration of penalty rates, a living wage, an end to the privatisation of public services, increased funding to public hospitals and schools, proper funding of the NDIS and immediate action on climate change. The campaigning around Change the Rules must succeed if the trade union movement is to have a future in Australia. Likewise this government must be given the boot and the campaign must continue following the elections. Extreme right forces are on the ascendency in Australia, and the trade union movement is seen as a barrier to their ambitions. Central to this is the right to strike, a demand seen on many of the placards on May Day and reiterated by many speakers. This rise of the extreme right in Australia is in line with developments in other bourgeois democracies across the globe. It is reflected in the failure of political parties to form governments in their own right, instead increasingly turning to neo-fascist forces to form alliances as two-party systems break down. Political crisis In Australia, the major parties are losing their grip after prevailing for decades. People are fed up with decades of neo-liberalism, broken promises and are now facing stagnant wages, declining living standards, job insecurity, sky-rocketing electricity prices, unaffordable housing, hospital waiting lists, etc. They are desperate for real change. Many have developed a cynicism towards the major parties that follow similar policies and failure to deliver except for the big end of town. They have become disinterested in the elections and turned off. At the moment voting in Australia is compulsory. Mainstreaming of neo-fascists Since the Howard government, in particular, and then under Prime Minister Tony Abbott, the extreme right have become emboldened. From the early 1990s onwards, right-wing academics, media columnists, politicians and others have increasingly attacked the progressive movement for equality and recognition while attempting to justify sexism, racism and homophobia. The mass media in particular the snarling reaction of News Ltd media have over time given more time and space to racists and other extremists, bit by bit mainstreaming and normalising them. The Howard Coalition government saw the likes of Pauline Hanson and her One Nation party as a threat to an important part of its constituency. This resulted in a marked shift to the right as the Coalition government tried to shore up its vote amongst redneck elements. Americanisation One of the disturbing features of this and recent election campaigns is the Americanisation of Australias political system. The public hears little about policies. It is all about the leaders as personalities much along the lines of a presidential race. Personalities are rated, numbers are crunched and thrown around: There are transparent opportunistic promises of spending in marginal seats. Fake news, blatant lies, short hollow grabs, media questions never answered, dirt units operating to discredit candidates, raking through their past. Last week saw the Liberals lose three and Labor two of their candidates when their racist, homophobic and sexist credentials were revealed. Palmer on Trump Billionaire mining magnate Clive Palmer was elected in 2013 with the clear purpose of looking after his own interest by removing Labors carbon tax. He did not stand in 2016 but is up and running with candidates in every seat in the 2019 elections. Modelling himself on US President Trump with largely hollow statements, promising people what they want to hear even if it means contradicting himself. Xenophobic nationalism runs through much of what he says: Put Australia First. Make Australia Great. All Australians need to be concerned about the clandestine takeover of our country. Our ports, airports and farms are being sold to foreign powers at a faster rate than ever before. Protect & Defend our future with United Australia Party, he states in reference to China. Every speech concludes with God bless Australia. Palmer has run full-page ads across the media as many as five with colour in one issue of the News Ltd Australian newspaper. He credibly claims to have spent $50 million so far and is still spending and spending. His main target is the Greens and he has told lie after lie about them. Why? Because of their environmental policies, in particular, their opposition to the destructive Adani mine project in Queensland. He is applying to open two large coal mines, one of which is adjacent to the Adani site. If it were to get approval, his Alpha North project would cover an area of 144,000 hectares and produce around a third as much more than the Adani mine, along with the resultant destruction of the environment. The importance of Adani is that its rail line has the potential to get his coal to port. He is spending millions chasing Senate seats in each state to have supporters for his planned mines and the Adani mine on the cross benches. It is highly unlikely that the Coalition or Labor or the Australian Greens will gain an outright majority in the Senate. This makes the composition of the cross bench of vital importance and not just on the question of the environment and climate change but also on many important social issues. New Senate voting system In 2016 the Abbott government changed the voting system for the Senate. Prior to the 2016 elections anyone voting above the line needed to put a 1 in the box against their first preference. (Voting below the line means putting numbers against individual candidates instead of parties.) As of the 2016 elections, if voting above the line, then you must number a minimum of six boxes. That is, you must give at least six preferences for parties or independents. That does not mean you must give six. Six is the minimum. If you stop after allocating six, then when votes are being counted if it flows down beyond your sixth preference, your vote no longer plays a role in deciding how the final seat or seats are allocated. Thus it is important to give careful consideration as to how you wish your preferences to flow and how far you wish them to be counted. In the Lower House, it is simpler you just number all of the boxes in the order you wish your preferences to flow. Importance of vote The shift towards fascism that is emerging here and elsewhere makes these elections of critical importance. The Communist Party of Australia sees the immediate aim in the forthcoming elections as the defeat of the Coalition to ensure it does not have control of either House and the defeat of the extreme right forces. Changing the rules requires struggle which will only be won through concerted mass activity outside Parliament, with the involvement of trade unions and community organisations. It is only a first step towards changing the system. The Communist Party of Australia supports giving first preferences to left and progressive candidates with Coalition candidates followed by extreme right independents and parties last. May Day Fremantle WA We fight for the future On Sunday May 5, the organised working class held their traditional May Day rally and march in Fremantle, Western Australia attended by over 3,000 people. Unions WA secretary Meredith Hammat was the first speaker and raised the importance of the celebration of May Day for the union movement and union members; a day when we come together to remember the proud history of the working people of Western Australian in their fight for a decent, fair, safe and secure workplace and society. We remember the death of Tom Edwards who was killed 100 years ago on Fremantles Bloody Sunday, May 4, 1919, when as a proud member of the Fremantle Lumpers Union which later became a part of the Waterside Workers Federation and are now a part of the Maritime Union of Australia. Tom Edwards died when he went to assist another member of the Lumpers, their president William Renton, who was involved in a struggle to prevent a group of employers and members of the National Waterside Workers Union (drawn from the ranks of the unemployed, scab workers, non-unionists and volunteers) erecting barricades to prevent Lumpers members from hindering the unloading of a ship, the Dimboola, which had influenza victims on it. The Lumpers members had been given preference to unload the ship as they were a recognised union but the state Premier Hal Colebatch thought otherwise and seized control of the wharf putting police there as well as members of the scab union, NWWU. A crowd of over 1,000 people had gathered to support the stand by the Lumpers including their wives and children. The Lumpers were also taking industrial action to secure shorter shifts and more secure arrangements for work, a struggle Hammat said, that we are still fighting today. Tom Edwards died later of the impact of a rifle butt to the head from a police officer and a massive funeral was held in his honour to remember the sacrifice which Tom had made for his fellow workers. People came from all over the state as far away as Albany and Geraldton and every Labor politician attended. Hammat continued: At the heart of the Change the Rules campaign we fight for the working lives of those workers who are to come so that they too will have safe, secure and well-paid jobs. The union movement which comprises over two million members in Australia are a powerful force for change. Michele ONeil, president of the ACTU, spoke next and reminded the rally that May is the International Day of Solidarity of workers everywhere. In Fiji on May 1, a group of senior Fijian union leaders were protesting about the deteriorating conditions for workers and ordinary people in that country, when they were arrested and detained without charge. However, international solidarity, in particular from Australia and New Zealand, helped secure the release of over 30 trade unionists from detention. We also remember the fire and collapse of the Rana Plaza in which 180 mostly women clothing workers died and the international campaign which followed to bring safer working conditions for these workers. With the federal election coming up on May 18, ONeil said the Change the Rules Campaign will not end on May 19: it ends once laws are made that are worth the paper they are written on! These laws are necessary to fight growing inequality in this country where the top 1 percent have more wealth than the bottom 70 percent of workers. With stagnating wages and insecure work, many workers cannot meet the rising cost of living including that of food, transport, housing and utilities. It is telling that Australia has the third highest rate of insecure work in the OECD countries and it should be asked: Is it necessary for a nursing care assistant who will only receive work if she gets a text message at 9pm to say whether there will be any work the next day which can start at 6am? ONeil finished her speech with a reference to Marx and Engels The Communist Manifesto, Workers of the world unite, you have nothing to lose but your chains! Taking Issue Rob Gowland Wrong side of history The attack on the popularly elected government of Venezuela is, as everyone can plainly see, orchestrated and engineered by the US government through its multitude of intelligence agencies and assorted divisions of the powerful military-industrial complex. An economic blockade has been imposed on the country, its banking facilities abroad have been frozen, and its ability to improve the lot of its own people severely limited. Thanks to this unprincipled economic sabotage, the Maduro governments efforts to continue the policies of Hugo Chavez and raise the living standards of the countrys poor have been severely set back. The bulk of President Maduros support comes from the poorest people in the country, especially the Indigenous population, who are predominantly very poor. But US imperialism has little interest in the poor of any country, other than as potential canon fodder. After all, by definition, they dont have much in the way of disposable income so you cant sell them consumer goods or entice them into investing in the stock market! No, the Venezuelans the US favours are the former members of the countrys wealthy elite and those members of the middle class who aspire to join them. Privileged, and convinced that they were entitled to be so, they were deeply shocked when paratroop commander Hugo Chavez persuaded his fellow officers to join him in supporting a military revolt on behalf of the countrys poor. This movement became known as the Bolivarian Revolution, and its pro-people character was made crystal clear when Venezuelas wealthy, backed by the US, conspired with sections of the military to have Chavez arrested in a counter-revolutionary coup. In unprecedented scenes of ruling class glee, well-to-do Venezuelans stamped their feet and cheered lustily as each of Chavezs laws favouring the poor were declared revoked. They were premature, however. Chavez explained the true nature of the counter-revolutionary coup to his captors and they not only freed him but restored him to power. The Bolivarian Revolution was back on track. It is significant that in this latest attempt to oust the democratically-elected government of President Maduro and put a stop to his efforts to carry on the work Chavez began, the army has remained steadfast and loyal, in the face of intense provocation. In a tactic that the US has used in other parts of the world, notably in Ukraine and elsewhere in Eastern Europe, the countrys economy has been wrecked in an effort to persuade people to support regime change. But even in Latin America, the events in Venezuela are by no means without precedent. The activities of the Contras in Nicaragua, financed by arms sales to the Middle East in direct violation of a US Congressional ban, the abortive Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba, the US-sponsored military overthrow of the Allende government of Chile in 1973 and the horrific revenge exacted against progressive Chileans by US-trained torturers and murderers. To name only some. However, the days when US imperialism could routinely overthrow any government or revolutionary movement on the American continent that it didnt like, such as the Zappatistas in Mexico, are gone for good. Washington would like to think that they havent, but the case of Venezuela shows otherwise. Once, when the US wished to bring down a government that displeased them, they would not only have disrupted the countrys economy, as they did in Chile, for example, but when that failed to bring about regime change acceptable to the US State Department, they would have bribed or otherwise persuaded the military to carry out a coup, as they did all over Central and South America, as well as in Ghana and numerous other countries in Africa, the Middle East and elsewhere. In fact, it would be hard to find a developing country where the US has not meddled to play havoc with its economy when it suited US economic or strategic interests. But, as I said, those days are rapidly coming to an end. Donald Trump would like to think they havent, but even he has had to face reality. He threatened the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (the DPRK) with fire and destruction, but has had to pull his head in and be satisfied with posing as a peacemaker and a diplomat. Not an easy task for a temperamental deal-maker, but he had no real alternative. Trump can bluster all he likes, but his advisers will assuredly have told him that despite the USAs lead in the number of ICBMs, actual military superiority has firmly passed to Russia, backed up by the economic might of China. Once before, in the 1950s, the US diverted its economy which was based on ruthlessly exploiting the worlds less developed countries into establishing a hugely expensive Strategic Air Command to be able to dictate to the Soviet Union by threatening its nuclear destruction. The USSR responded by developing the ICBM and rendering the Strategic Air Command obsolete. Today, once again, the US has succumbed to the profit-making appeal of huge ticket defence items. This time it is huge battle-fleets based around giant aircraft carriers. And once again, they have been rendered obsolete and ineffective by the development of hypersonic missiles with precision targeting. Science that is not driven by the pursuit of profit triumphs again. US imperialism can still inflict a lot of suffering and heartache on the worlds people, but its ability in this regard is being cut back all the time. Ever since WW2, the people of the world have been growing in their ability to restrict the rampages of capitalism. Capitalism knows, as well as we do, even though it doesnt want to admit it, that the future is Socialist. An election in the air with promises galore ScoMo: The April federal budget had already allocated $461 million for youth mental health including 30 new Headspace Centres. In April 13, 2019 while visiting the mental health organisation Headspace, PM Morrison announced $42.1 million extra in funding for youth and Indigenous mental health research that is if the Coalition was re-elected. Shorten: Labor is campaigning hard on its health funding promises including a $125 million research funding to improve cancer survival rates as well as billions to reduce out-of-pocket-costs for millions of medical scans. Shame Since the Royal Commission into Black Deaths in Custody 30 years ago there have been over 400 Indigenous deaths in custody. A serious systemic failure is still occurring, Indigenous people are still dying in custody from treatable medical conditions and are much less likely than non-Indigenous people to receive the care they need. Locking people up in prison is clearly no answer. In 2017 the royal commission into maltreatment and torture of Indigenous youths at Don Dale prison shocked the nation but little has changed in Darwin and Alice Springs prisons. Another royal commission had recommended that Don Dale prison be closed; it found in its final report shocking and systemic failures over many years that were known but ignored. The abuse of children in Don Dale is a national disgrace, theres no light at the end of the tunnel for these incarcerated youths, no real hope or help in rehabilitation. Don Dale and Alice Springs prisons are still operating as normal with guards discretion in the use of force, restraints and isolation of children. Neither major party has any real plans for crucial changes. Medical costs The ongoing privatisation of Medicare has resulted in inadequate health care for the majority who cannot afford private health cover, while Medicare Private made profits from peoples illnesses. Health should never be left in the hands of private companies; the end results are higher costs to the public and the whole public health system run down and in crises. Mental health Many people are exposed to stressful life events such as mortgage stress, unemployment, long hours of work, and inadequate wages under the capitalist system. Accumulating evidence suggests that such adversities might lead to an increase of several major diseases, including cardiovascular morbidity, injury, infection, and certain autoimmune diseases. The relative risk of severe and acute cardiovascular events for example, cardiac arrest are highest during the period adjacent to the diagnosis of a stress related disorder, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal (April 2019) titled Stress related disorders and risk of cardiovascular disease: population based. In the studys conclusions they say that the association applies equally to men and women and is independent of familial factors, history of somatic/psychiatric diseases, and psychiatric comorbidities. Age discrimination Ageism is pervasive in society; other forms of discrimination such as racism have been linked with adverse health outcomes, but age discrimination has not been studied in public health. A study published in The Lancet examined associations between perceived age discrimination and health and wellbeing in England. The researchers concluded perceived age discrimination was associated with increased odds of poor self-related health and risk of incident serious health problems. The findings underscore the need for effective interventions to combat age stigma and discrimination. Political parties need to take these studies seriously. The abuse of older Australians has taken some time to surface because of not having a reporting system for complaints and protection for staff who blow the whistle. The April election budget prompted the coalition to allocate a miserable $18 million for a trial hot line, and a stingy $1.5 million to developing a Serious Incident Response Scheme. Addressing abuse of older people has a long way to go and a few miserly million chucked in at election time does little in this urgent time of need. Electric cars While electric cars (EVs) do not exhaust deadly toxic chemicals and particulates from engines, they still have a long way to go to replace combustion engine cars. Combustion engines produce not only climate change gases but also emissions toxic to humans such as; nitrogen dioxide (N02) and particulate (PM2.5). Paediatric asthma from exposure to traffic-related air pollution is of major concern, published in The Lancet. The report states: Reduced NO2 exposure could prevent a substantial portion of new paediatric asthma cases especially in urban areas. Traffic should be a major target for exposure mitigation strategies. PM2.5 particulate from exhausts can cause lung cancer and was classified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a group 1 human carcinogen in 2012. Air pollution was also categorised as a human carcinogen by WHO in 2013. Why wait? Waiting for EVs to replace 50 percent of combustion vehicles is still condemning many people to illnesses and reduced life expectancy. An immediate improvement of air quality would be to convert all public transport to electric powered systems with better services, regular, clean, providing enough seating for all, and increase frequency to outer suburbs. To complement the electrification of public transport, driverless electric shuttle buses could enter industrial and commercial industry areas and shopping centres thus reducing peoples dependents on private cars. These changes can reduce congestion on roads, less maintenance required for roads, and no need for the construction of more toll roads and expressways. A European tram system is being converted to electric energy being drawn from electrical installation at ground level, eliminating poles and wires. China has developed a trackless electric battery-operated tram system which coupled up can carry 300 plus passenger. War machines Both major parties support the US war alliance which has and will continue to drain billions of taxpayer money into war preparations, instead of governments spending more to alleviate growing poverty, homelessness and the crisis in our public hospital system, dental care, education, and struggling pensioners. They squander $50 billion on 12 attack class submarines, and for 54 naval vessels as part of the $90 billion shipbuilding plan to accommodate our so called strategic requirements. Alternative system The capitalist system has always attacked alternative systems i.e. by economic sanctions, threats of multi-national companies withdrawing from the country and aid i.e. Venezuela, engage in wars to effect regime change to secure oil or mineral resources, (Middle East oil rich countries). Building so called defence bases to surround Socialist oriented countries i.e. (Cuba, China). Australias role in the world has been deputy sheriff for the USA which is supported by both major parties. Our sovereignty and independence is at stake with this war mongering alliance which includes the spy base at Pine Gap and military facilities in the Northern Territory. Australias shame Spending has outstripped our income The Australian Bureau of Statistics figures released on January 22, 2019 showed median weekly earnings for all part-time workers was $577 and one in 10 part-time workers received weekly total cash earnings of $138 or less and one in 10 part-time workers received $1,244 or more. The lowest paid 10 percent of full-time paid adult workers rate received $925 or less. Workers waiting for pay rises from trickledown economics now know capitalism doesnt work that way ... and never has. One in five workers continue to be paid the lowest wage that they may legally be paid (minimum wage rates). The average family owes as of April 2019 about $20,000 of bad debt on credit cards and car loans. If for example workers received a $50 dollar a week increase a hypothetical amount with this coalition government and very unlikely with a Labour government it would take seven and a half years to pay off a $20,000 debt. The track record of both major political parties shows a dismal picture the coalition government over four and a half years averaged 0.3 percent increase per year; under Labour wages grew by 0.7 percent over five and three quarter years. Both have failed to improve workers standards of living, with standards dropping under both governments. So how do we determine poverty? Some use unemployment figures, pensioner numbers, those on disability pensions, Newstart or on unemployment benefits, all of whom are struggling financially. The annual report from Foodbank seems an excellent basis for data; they are a non-profit organisation providing food for more than 2,600 charities around Australia. Charities culture The charities and community groups that work with Foodbank provide food relief to over 710,000 Australians every month, 27 percent of whom are under the age of 19. Despite this, these organisations are struggling to keep up with demand as 49 percent of charities report the number of people seeking food relief continues to increase year on year. In the last 12 months, the proportion of food-insecure Australians seeking food relief has increased from 46 percent to 51 percent, the equivalent of 384,000 people. They had been turning away seven percent of individuals seeking food relief every month. Australians struggling with food insecurity say they feel stressed, depressed and sad during times when they are unable to buy enough food. Welcome to hell The Peruvian mining city of La Rinconada While the West attacks Venezuela, a country that improved the lives of many of its citizens, it overlooks horrors that are taking place in Peru and other pro-market countries in Latin America. La Rinconada, which lies at over five kilometres above sea level, is the highest settlement in the world; a gold mining town, a concentration of misery, a community of about 50,000 inhabitants, many of whom have been poisoned by mercury. Photos: Andre Vltchek A place where countless women and children get regularly raped, where law and order collapsed quite some time ago, where young girls are sent to garbage dumps in order to recycle terribly smelling waste, and where almost all the men work in beastly conditions, trying to save at least some money, but where most of them simply ruin their health, barely managing to stay alive. I decided to travel to La Rinconada precisely during these days when the socialist Venezuela is fighting for its survival. I drove there as the European elites in Bolivia were trying to smear the enormously popular and successful President of Bolivia, Evo Morales, while the elections were approaching. As in so many places in the turbo-capitalist and pro-Western Peru, La Rinconada is like a tremendous warning: this is how Venezuela and Bolivia used to be before Hugo Chavez and Evo Morales. This is where Washington wants the entire Latin America to return to. Like those monstrous and hopeless slums surrounding Lima, La Rinconada should be a call to arms. Just some five years ago we thought: This is how Latin America was never supposed to look like again. We thought so, before the extreme right-wing forces in Washington managed to regroup and deploy old dogmas of the Monroe Doctrine back to the frontlines, against Latin American independence and socialism. A driver refused to take me to La Rinconada, alone. For me, the fewer people involved the better. Even in Afghanistan, I work alone, only with my trusted Pashtun driver. But here it is different: the reputation of La Rinconada is that you can enter, but you will never manage to leave. I am told about the new mafia that operates there, and about the totally deteriorating security situation. In the end, I had no choice but to accept a crew of two men: a driver and a person who is familiar with the situation related to Peruvian mines. We leave the city of Puno in the morning, passing along the magnificent shores of Lake Titicaca, which with a surface elevation of 3,812 metres (12,506 feet), it is the highest navigable lake in the world, shared by Peru and Bolivia. From the Peruvian side, the lake is getting poisoned by mercury, explained Freddy, a mining expert. La Rinconada and its gold mines are still very far, but the River Ramis is now bringing contaminated water from the area, particularly from the mining town of Ananea, directly into the lake. There is some sort of a motorway between Puno and Juliaca, a center of commercial activity in the region; in fact, a huge, unkempt dusty city full of slums. Right after Juliaca, it is just rural misery. I used to work in Peru during the so called Dirty War, fought between two Communist guerrillas (the Maoist Shining Path and the Marxist, pro-Cuban MRTA) and the Peruvian state, which officially ended in 1992. Since then, the rural misery of Peru has not changed: dwellings made of earth, the desperate faces of villagers, and almost no social services, have remained. Right across the border, in socialist-oriented Bolivia, life in the countryside improves dramatically, continuously. But not here; not in Peru. And so, tens of thousands of anxious men are going up, reaching tremendous heights, risking their lives and ruining their health, for at least a tiny chance to find gold, and to escape the endemic misery. My wife saved me, I was told by a driver who, two days earlier, took me from the Bolivian border of Desaguadero, to the Peruvian city of Puno: I was totally broke. We just had a baby. I had no idea what to do. And so, I told my family that I am going to La Rinconada. My wife stood up and said: If you go, you will never return. And if you do, you will not be the man that I love, anymore. You stay in Puno and work here. I will work, too. We will somehow manage. Dont you know: La Rinconada is a death sentence. I stayed. She was right. I saw people who went and came back totally destroyed. It is getting cold. Our car climbs up, grumpily, with badly damaged suspension, but going nevertheless. The higher we climb, the colder it gets. It rains, then it stops. The views are magnificent, but the countryside is covered by garbage. The river is filthy. The llamas are eating garbage, cars are being washed in the rapids, and entire villages appear to be abandoned, turned into ghost towns. After more than four hours of driving, after insane, neck-breaking serpentines, the first mines appear on the horizon. Then more filth, primitive machinery, and a mining town Ananea. Ms Irma, the owner of a local eatery, prepares strong coffee and coca leaves soaked in hot water, the best remedy for altitude sickness. She is chatty, realising that we represent no danger: Sometimes, miners from La Rinconada, escape here. Ananeo is a bit below, and safer. We have water here. There, it is all poisoned; by mercury and other horrible stuff. You know the concept, how they work up there: 29 days they are labouring for free, and then for one day a month, they are allowed to grab what they find. It is a gamble: if they are lucky, they get rich during that one day. Or they find very little, or nothing. And even if they do, at night, it can get stolen from them. She sounds old, maternal, compassionate, concerned. She has seen it all, it appears. We pay and drive up. Then, we see it: enormous lakes, yellowish, brownish, with streams coming from their surface. Long blue hoses. Everything is ruined and poisoned. Freddy says that there are some new technologies that could be used to extract gold, but the miners here use mercury, as it is cheaper. Primitive machinery is at work, just like on the Indonesian island of Kalimantan/Borneo; there, illegal mining is poisoning mighty rivers, here, it is levelling entire mountains, creating huge lakes, and moonscapes at some 5,000 metres of altitude. The guards are obviously very unhappy about our presence. Still, I manage to film and photograph, and then we drive even further up. The piles of garbage appear. Behind them, two tremendous mountains covered by snow. And an ironic metal sign: Welcome to La Rinconada, Do not litter. I have seen a lot, on all the continents, but La Rinconada is truly unique. Mountains and valleys are dotted with metal shacks, with makeshift structures. The filth is everywhere. There is no water supply. Electricity is scarce. Garbage even covers the humble graves of a local cemetery. In the main square, heavy drinking is in progress. It is dangerous to photograph here. I hide; use zoom. Two plastered miners are lying on their stomachs, and someone is throwing food into their open mouths, as if it was feeding time in a zoo. Prostitution is rampant. Children are doing odd jobs. At one of the garbage dumps, I ask two young girls about their age. 25, comes the ready answer. I guess 15, at most. But their faces are covered. How dangerous is it here? I ask one of the miners. He replies readily: Very dangerous, but we have no choice. Do people get injured on jobs? Do they get killed? Of course. It happens very often. We are all taking risks. Some people get horrible injuries, others die. If they cannot treat them here, they take them to Ananeo, and if they are lucky, to a Juliaca hospital. Others are left here to die. Its life. Some get saved, some dont. Do they blame capitalism, the extreme savage pro-market system, adopted by their country? Its life, I hear the same fatalistic reply. Do they know about Bolivia; about the great changes just across the border? Do they know that some 30 kilometres away from here, as the condor flies, on the Bolivian side, there is the pristine national reserve? Some know that it is much better there, in Bolivia, now. But they do not associate it with socialism or with the independent and pro-people policies of President Evo Morales. And they know very little about Venezuela. All they know is that they were barely surviving on Altiplano, and that they are fighting for their lives, here, in La Rinconada. Like in Indonesia, another savage pro-Western capitalist regime, people here are too preoccupied with their immediate essential problems; they cannot be bothered with abstract thoughts about the environment, or lawlessness. It is not just mercury, I am told. Everything here is mixed: poisons related to mining, urine, sh*t, urban waste ... The altitude is hitting me hard. 4,000 in Puno is bad; over 5,000 here is fatal. I am being held by two people as I film on the edge of a ravine, in order not to fall down. Somehow, in a very twisted way, I acknowledge that the vistas around me are beautiful, stunning. I am impressed. Impressed by the ability of human beings to survive under almost any conditions. Virtually all of this is illegal. But hundreds of millions are made, and washed. People gain nothing; almost nothing. A miner makes 800 to 1,000 soles (roughly US$250 to US$300) per month. Private companies and corrupt government gain billions. Once again, Latin America is getting poorer. But the West is not pushing for regime change in Peru, or in Paraguay, or Brazil. This is how it is supposed to be; this is how Washington likes it. Another miner dares to talk to me: Most of the gold goes abroad. But before it does ... If gangs do not rob us, miners, at night, they often murder small middlemen, those who buy gold directly from us. Is he scared? Everyone here is scared, he confirms. Scared and sick. This is hell. It is like a war ... I utter. It is a war, he confirms. But almost nobody comes here to report and to investigate. The life of a poor Peruvian person is worth nothing; nothing at all. I film, I document ... It is all that I can do for them. And for Bolivia, for Venezuela. While I work, I feel that hell is near, it is here. It is not abstract, religious: it is real. But it could, it should be stopped. RT Russia Today Tragedy has many faces Tragedy has many faces. From the sombre, tear-stained pale faces seen as families gather to say their final goodbyes; to the wide-eyed, horror-filled faces of those whove witnessed unspeakable acts of terror and mass destruction by-products of our modern age of warfare. It is Easter morning at St Anthonys Shrine, the largest Catholic congregation in Sri Lankas capital city Colombo, where dozens of faithful Christians gathered tightly squeezing in together on church pews, to celebrate the holy resurrection. Outside the church and throughout the capital city, Sunday morning travellers, tourists, and families sat together at hotel and cafe breakfast tables, enjoying the sights, sounds, and muggy saltwater breeze. About an hour away from Colombo, in Negombo, Sri Lanka, situated on the west coast of the island nation, members of the St Sebastian parish also gathered to celebrate the holiest day of the Christian calendar. At 8:45 am explosions tore through both churches. St Sebastians roof was ripped off, church pews splintered, and shrapnel embedded itself in the walls, statues of saints, and human flesh. Silence immediately follows the deafening blast. The brief eruption of red and yellow flames blinds you. And in those next few moments, as the dust settles, waves of panic and grief take hold; accompanied by the pained, fearful screams surrounding you. A river of blood is all thats left. There was no resurrection April 21. Only death made even more real by the single image of a blood-stained statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the carnage. Between 8:45 am and 9:30 am, in three cities, suicide bombers detonated explosives at three Christian churches and three luxury hotels. Five hours later, a blast was reported at the Tropical Inn at Dehiwala severed limbs were seen scattered about the roads following the explosion, a witness told local TV. At 2:45 pm, police received a tip that potential suspects were holed up inside a safe house in Dematagota, on the outskirts of Colombo. A blast went off, and several officers were killed. A total of eight explosions left 359 people dead, and 500 injured, marking Sri Lankas deadliest violence in over a decade since the end of the Sri Lankan civil war May 18, 2009. People were being dragged out, said Bhanuka Harischandra, of Colombo, 24, who was heading to a meeting at Shangri-La Hotel when it was bombed. People didnt know what was going on. It was panic mode. Prior to Sundays suicide bombings, the deadliest coordinated attack to take place was in May 1984, when the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a separatist militant organisation, killed 146 civilians, according to the Global Terrorism Database. And sadly, the use of suicide bombers is not new for Sri Lanka. Over the course of almost 30 years of civil war, Tamil fighters, trained in Lebanon during the 80s and 90s, would go on to launch over 130 suicide bomb attacks, and would assassinate a Sri Lankan prime minister, a former Indian prime minister, and countless bystanders. Following the attacks, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe vowed to vest all necessary powers with the defence forces to take action against those responsible, fearing the massacre could trigger political instability. Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera echoed the premiers sentiment by calling for unity in dark times. I strongly condemn the cowardly attacks on our people today. I call upon all Sri Lankans during this tragic time to remain united and strong. Please avoid propagating unverified reports and speculation. The government is taking immediate steps to contain this situation, he tweeted. The Sri Lankan government blamed the attacks on two local extremist groups: National Thowheet Jamaath (NJT) and Jammiyathul Millathu Ibrahim. The preliminary investigations have revealed that what happened in Sri Lanka was in retaliation for the attack against Muslims in Christchurch, Ruwan Wijewardene, Sri Lankas defence minister, told the countrys parliament, according to the Independent. Sri Lanka has a small Christian minority, making up about seven percent of the 21 million people. Muslims and Hindus make up around 10 and 12 percent of the population. The largest religion is Theravada Buddhism with 70 percent. Like other minorities, Muslims were marginalised following the nearly three-decades-long civil war between the Sinhalese Buddhist government and the Hindu Tamils. That history of war, political instability, and marginalisation created a slow yet steady road for radicalisation leading to Easter Sunday. But to be clear, groups like the radical NJT do not even represent one percent of the Muslim population in Sri Lanka. And it would be a complete mischaracterisation to say that the moderate Muslim population in Sri Lanka is primed for jihad or any acts of terror despite the chilling and sensationalised soundbites the public may hear saying otherwise in the weeks to come. Sri Lankan Muslims fear these actions by terrorist organisations will provide justification for Sinhalese Buddhist nationals who view other religious minorities in a bad light to act. It is tragic that the majority of Muslims who are essentially peace-loving are to pay for the actions of this minority, said a 2014 statement released by the Peace Loving Moderate Muslims in Sri Lanka group, denouncing the rise of the NTJ and warning the public of its hateful rhetoric. We fear that these activities ... if left unchecked by the authorities, would create a situation in which the majority of Muslims in Sri Lanka, already under threat and harassment from this extremist minority, may have to face the wrath of other religions, continued the statement. All family, all generation, is lost, said Joseph Gomez, struggling to hold back tears as he gathered with family and neighbours to bury his entire family a son, a daughter-in-law, and three grandsons, the youngest 11-months old. As shock turns to mourn for the nation of Sri Lanka, the roads are lined with armoured military vehicles and long processions of black hearses. Followed by the anguished cries of those left alive, now charged with burying their dead. Heres what we know: On Tuesday, the Islamic State (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the bombings. Recently, ISIS, which has lost all the territory it held in Iraq and Syria, has made a series of unsupported claims of responsibility for terrorist attacks, and investigators are still determining any foreign links to Sundays attacks. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said, foreign involvement was likely and that some of the attackers had travelled abroad recently. Authorities confirmed that some of the suicide bombers were well-educated and studied abroad. The Sri Lankan government verified that foreign intelligence reports gave the countrys security officials a detailed, 10-day warning of possible attacks by the NJT. The government said it had arrested 60 people in connection with the attacks, all of them Sri Lankans. The security services had arrested 24 of the suspects within hours of the bombings. Peoples World Extinction rebellion BERLIN: People on the march are a common sight here lately. On March 8 it was mostly (but not only) women demanding womens rights and an end to the 20 percent wage gap with men. A big majority were young. Fridays for the Future in Berlin. For months now, on a weekly basis, many even younger marchers have been playing hooky! Every Friday afternoon thousands of kids have been walking out of their classrooms and demonstrating, carrying countless hard-hitting and witty posters and banners. The movement is called Fridays for the Future and the main demands are an end to the use of fossil fuels and that politicians move far, far faster with tough laws and measures against worsening damage to the world the kids want to inherit. In Berlin alone 25,000 took part, more than 300,000 in 220 cities all over Germany and two million in 123 different countries. It all started last summer in Sweden with 16-year-old Greta Thunberg. There were politicians who righteously recalled that going to school is required by law hooky playing can mean punishment for parents. But what can you do against hundreds of thousands of kids saying: School learning is important, but our planets well-being comes first. And with 26,000 scientists supporting them some briefly joined a sit-down blockade of a main Berlin bridge and even President Frank-Walter Steinmeier approved their message. The mightiest coal barons and their right-wing politician friends hesitate to contradict the kids too openly or sharply. How much positive action can be expected is another matter. For years the government let the big automakers get away with a diesel fraud crime, at the cost of the environment, until it simply became too dirty to hide and prevent indictments. The kids fight is being matched by adults in a so-called Extinction Rebellion by a half-million in London last week, while the youngsters keep demonstrating, as they did even on Germanys Good Friday holiday. One of their banners against climate disaster asked plaintively: Grandpa, what does a snowman look like? Another, inspired by the now world-famous Swedish girl (with a side glance at a world leader) punned: Make the world Greta again. On a very different level, more footwear than usual was used recently by Berliners when bus, streetcar and subway workers went out on a one-day warning strike, the third of its kind, to win higher wages from the state-owned enterprise. The 2,900,000 passengers who daily use this public transportation could partially resort to elevated trains, run by a different, nationally-owned rail system, but many more than usual had to use bicycles, cabs or schusters rappen. The idiom means the shoemakers dark horse. That 24-hour strike did the trick. The service union with the acronym ver.di, Germanys second largest with almost two million members, won a 7-19 percent raise plus an increased 200 Christmas bonus. The final deal, a compromise, did not include the demanded 36.5-hour week possibly meant as a bargaining chip. This was one of a growing number of recent strikes, among them the long-lasting conflict with Amazon. That brutal exploiter is as fanatically anti-union here as everywhere else! But the issues most deeply troubling Germans are rent increases and affordable housing. All major cities are hit by gentrification. In Berlin, where most people live in rented apartments, fear is spreading and anger too. Alleged necessary renovations, with huge rate increases, are forcing elderly people out of homes they have lived in for 30, 40 or more years with few if any affordable substitutes. Young couples search desperately for homes; retail shops or clubs which bound neighbourhoods together are forced to close by impossible new demands of distant owners. But resistance is growing. On April 9 more than 35,000 demonstrated in Berlin while smaller rallies were held in other cities. At the main rally on Alexanderplatz special tables were set up for a so-called initiative; about 15,000 signed up. If 20,000 sign within six months, which seems easily possible, the next goal is to get the signatures of seven percent of all Berlin citizens within four months. That is a far more difficult task, but it has been mastered a few times in recent years. If they succeed, a referendum must be held and if more than a quarter of all Berliners (16 or older) go to the polls and over 50 percent vote Yes that means victory! The city-state legislature must then pass an appropriate law seizing Deutsche Wohnens apartments. The initiatives demand is a militant one! Deutsche Wohnen enteignen Confiscate Deutsche Wohnen. That company German Housing is the biggest of 12 companies owning more than 3,000 apartments each. It owns over 111,000 and has the worst reputation for nastiness, most recently against decades-long inhabitants of East Berlins wide Karl Marx Allee, built in the 1950s as Germanys first socialist street, but gradually being privatised since German unification. The PR machines of Deutsche Wohnen and other privateers are working overtime, aided by many media, to convince citizens and city rulers that the required reparations paid them for confiscated apartments would cost billions and bankrupt the city. Their figures are highly imaginative, and any price paid them would be regained when controlled rent payments went into the city budget and not stockholders private pockets, the deepest of them belonging, it turns out, to US global investment management corporation BlackRock. The initiative was launched largely by two devoted left-wingers (though not LINKE members). One, as a youngster, had fled persecution in Iran. Now the LINKE (Left) party has decided to support the initiative! That could be very important in holding the party together after long fractional fights nearly tore it apart. Since it belongs to Berlins governing coalition, it bodes well for a Ja vote! Nationally, the Christians oppose it as GDR socialism, the Social Democrats, though trying to seem leftist, avoid support, and the Greens reluctantly approved so as not to lose ground to the LINKE. Fragile LINKE party unity, at least in this key issue, is vitally important at present. Countless lantern posts are adorned with election posters with elections for seats in the European Parliament due on May 26. Even many sceptics of the EU support this fight if only to stop advances of the far right! A host of local elections will also be held then and, in September, important state elections in Eastern Germany will show how strong the racist Alternative for Germany has become. It aims for first place in Saxony. A Social Democrat-LINKE coalition in Brandenburg is fighting for its continued life, while in Thuringia a triple coalition of Social Democrats, Greens, and the LINKE, with the latter strongest of the three supplying its one and only state Minister-President in all Germany. Will the LINKE become more militant? Can a fight for public housing and controlled rents or, far better, for the confiscation of ravenous housing predators convince people to vote for the LINKE and no longer view it as just another part of the establishment? Or will they choose the racist AfD or the Greens, who often talk progressive while willingly joining the Christian party in coalitions and sticking to its frighteningly bellicose foreign policy? Can the LINKE, deflating inner conflicts, convince people that the only genuine path to housing and rent control, to decent jobs, adequate pensions, child care, and infrastructure employment is to stop spending billions on weapons, on fatally dangerous NATO manoeuvres along Russian borders or on creating a new European army? Young and old demonstrated in the traditional Easter Peace Marches with just that message: no drones, no giant weapon purchases, no confrontation, no weapon exports to conflict areas and to murderers like the Saudi leaders. They also called for no complicity in attacks on Venezuela, Cuba or any other country. The lamp-post placards of the LINKE this season are sharp and clear, but the European Union is far off, very questionable in its aims and seems to be crumbling. The main fight in the months and years ahead is to mobilise people, far more than at the Easter Marches, and fill the streets with protesters and the workplaces whether factories or bus terminals, hospitals, kindergartens with people demanding change, for themselves as working people and for all those they serve against the powerful little knot of millionaires and billionaires and their oh-so-eloquent marionettes. Peoples World Culture & Life Assassination nation Guardian readers are unlikely to be so naive as to think that Julian Assange is over-reacting if he considers that his life would be at risk as well as his physical and mental health should he find himself in the clutches of US authorities. Nothing if not vindictive, these are the people who actually trained Chiles fascist dictator General Pinochets torturers. Their military regularly wages war on civilians and gets offended if their actions are denounced as war crimes by UN personnel or other do-gooders. The US army, which regardless of what country it is currently bombing or otherwise trying to destroy loudly proclaims that it is defending democracy and human rights, has at least three black ops units that specialise in wearing other countries uniforms and shooting US troops in volatile areas to create diplomatic incidents when required. The US also maintains assassination squads that in the Middle East for example carry out drone strikes against political activists the US doesnt care for. (It truly is a great country, dont you agree?) And it is this country that has made no bones about denouncing Julian Assange as a combination of spy and terrorist, setting him up as someone who deserves whatever he gets. It is a well-tried tactic of US authorities, dating back at least to the FBIs notorious campaigns against those it identified as public enemies, who (significantly) tended to get shot dead. Assange is an Australian journalist, but the Australian government has not shown any interest in defending his freedom of expression. This should not surprise us, since federal governments whether Liberal or Labor are primarily concerned with protecting their class interests. They will close ranks with their fellow imperialists at every opportunity. During the years in which Assange was effectively incarcerated in the Ecuadorian embassy in the UK, the British government applied continual pressure on him by putting police in the building to listen in to his conversations and phone calls and to spy on any visitors he might have, etc. This treatment was clearly carried out to please the Americans and demonstrate to them that Britain was not soft on whistle-blowers. Now that British police have forcibly removed Assange from the embassy they have officially placed him under arrest and the right-wing media has gleefully joined in a sustained campaign to vilify his morals and his character. People could be forgiven for not remembering that his only crime was to expose the criminal activity of capitalist governments. Journalists who make life difficult for capitalist governments are treading on dangerous ground, for although capitalist politicians and propagandists talk a lot about freedom of the press the last thing they want is for journalists to actually question government actions. Accordingly, genuinely democratically-minded journalists are consistently weeded out of positions and publications where they might be able to embarrass capitalist governments or the capitalist system itself. Anyone who doubts the truth of that statement needs only to look at the treatment meted out to another whistle-blower, the courageous and dreadfully ill-treated Chelsea Manning, who served seven years in prison for co-operating with Assange and WikiLeaks to expose US war-crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan. She has now been jailed once again for refusing to answer questions before a grand jury in the US supposedly investigating WikiLeaks and Assange, but all too obviously engaged in a vengeful witch-hunt. As Manning herself pointed out, The grand jurys questions pertained to disclosures from nine years ago, and took place six years after an in-depth computer forensics case, in which I testified for almost a full day about these events. I stand by my previous public testimony. In 2010, at the age of 22, Private first class Manning, who was an Army intelligence analyst, gave hundreds of thousands of classified Pentagon and State Department documents about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to WikiLeaks. These documents revealed the US military clearly committing war crimes. Instead of commending her for defending human rights, US authorities sentenced her in 2013, to a staggering 35 years in prison. She ultimately served seven years, until Obama commuted the remainder of her sentence as he was leaving office. Manning, a transgender woman, suffered in a male military prison and attempted suicide on two occasions in 2016. She was held in solitary confinement and was humiliated by being subjected to forced nudity during inspection for the first 11 months of her incarceration. United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture Juan Mendez characterised her treatment as cruel, inhuman and degrading. He couldnt determine whether it amounted to torture because he was not permitted to visit her under acceptable conditions, but I think we can all draw our own conclusion about that! Torture, state-sanctioned murder, and oppression of its critics are all-too prevalent characteristics of the rule of law in the USA, which still has the gall to call itself the land of the free. Julian Assange has every right to be afraid of what might happen to him if he is handed over to American justice. Pope sends papal charities chief to Lesbos To show solidarity with refugees in Greek camp (ANSAmed) - VATICAN CITY, MAY 8 - A mission by the apostolic papal charities chief, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, aims to ''reopen hearts to hope''. Krajewski was due to arrive on the Lesbos on Wednesday on behalf of the pope to show solidarity to the refugees hosted in local reception centers three years after the Pope Francis's visit to the Greek island just off Turkey. Accompanying him is Monsignor Jean-Claude Hollerich, archbishop of Luxembourg and head of the European Episcopal Commission, COMECE, to express the solidarity of the entire Church of the Old Continent. The trip, which will end on May 10, was organized, according to Vatican News, by the Comunita di Sant'Egidio and the migrants and refugees section of the Service for Integral Human Development. On the agenda is a visit to the Lesbos camps - especially the largest, Moria, the hot-spot that acts as an identification and registration center for migrants, as well as a meeting with local bodies and associations working on the ground.(ANSAmed). MSC Cruises announced a further extension of its partnership with two Michelin-starred Spanish chef Ramon Freixa with the opening of an additional two HOLA! Tapas Bar restaurants onboard MSC Meraviglia from May and MSC Grandiosa when the new ship launches later this year, the company said, in a statement. Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises commented: We have a number of criteria for finding the right chefs to partner with. Firstly, we look for a chef that brings industry-leading expertise in their respective cuisines and will offer something outstanding for our guests to enhance their dining experience on board our ships. Secondly, we aim to work with chefs that share the same values as us. Ramon not only embodies excellence in Spanish gastronomy with an innovative and modern style, but he also shares with us a passion for Mediterranean cuisine. It is a true collaboration with Ramon and we are delighted to be continuing to develop this successful partnership so that more guests can experience his vision. Freixa is part of an impressive line-up of international chefs that MSC has partnered with that includes renowned German chef Harald Wohlfahrt who held a three Michelin Star rating for 25 years in a row, two Michelin starred chef Raymond Blanc, innovative pan-Asian chef Roy Yamaguchi, award-winning pastry chef Jean-Philippe Maury and acclaimed Chinese chef Jereme Leung. Freixa commented: I am very happy to extend the HOLA! Tapas Bar concept to two more ships in MSC Cruises fleet, allowing guests from all over the world to enjoy a true taste of Spain through appetizing tapas in our cheerful bar atmosphere - it is a wonderful way to celebrate the Mediterranean style of life." Freixa has also contributed to the entire fleet, including creating his own Elegant Dinner dish in the main restaurants and by offering exclusive tapas items and a signature dish for MSC Yacht Club guests across the fleet;. His first restaurant at sea, Ocean Cay by Ramon Freixa, which opened onboard MSC Seaview in 2018, offering guests fish and shellfish. And now his exclusive HOLA! Tapas Bar concept, which opened with the launch of MSC Bellissima earlier this year and will now be available on MSC Meraviglia and MSC Grandiosa. The concept has been designed to offer a social and warm dining experience where guests can enjoy a range of traditional and modern shared plates and small bites inspired by some of Spains most popular dishes, MSC said, in a statement. Ramon Freixas HOLA! Tapas will arrive in North America along with MSC Meraviglia for the first time this October when the ship arrives for a short shoulder season program out of New York before moving to Miami for the winter cruise season. Mom's spend their lives taking care of others, so they deserve something special on Mother's Day. Sure, you could get her flowers from a local florist or buy her a gift, but what she probably really wants is to spend time with her family. There are plenty of opportunities to spend some quality time with mom in southwestern Connecticut this weekend. Click through the slideshow above for some suggestions. According to history.com, Mother's Day started in the United States in 1914 by a woman named Anna Jarvis who wanted to honor her mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis. "In the years before the Civil War (1861-65), Ann Reeves Jarvis of West Virginia helped start Mothers Day Work Clubs to teach local women how to properly care for their children...In 1868 Jarvis organized Mothers Friendship Day, at which mothers gathered with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation," history.com writes. Anna Jarvis felt that American holidays were biased toward men, so she started a campaign to instate a day honoring mothers. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mothers Day. Today, it has become somewhat of consumer holiday as the tradition is to buy mom flowers and jewelry or take her out to eat. But, "at times Mother's Day has also been a date for launching political or feminist causes," history.com writes. "In 1968 Coretta Scott King, wife of Martin Luther King Jr., used Mother's Day to host a march in support of underprivileged women and children. In the 1970s women's groups also used the holiday as a time to highlight the need for equal rights and access to childcare." Minors risk life sentence in Malta for hijacking ship 3 migrants accused of terrorism for El Hiblu case (ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 8 - Three migrants including two minors will be appearing on May 20 before Maltese judges to answer to charges of terrorism after an incident on the El Hiblu tanker. On March 28, the tanker took 108 migrants to Malta after rescuing them in international waters. The youths - aged 15, 16, and 19 - risk a life sentence. The prosecution has said that they were the ringleaders in changing the route of the vessel after taking control of it through force and intimidation. The migrants had initially been assured that they would disembark in Europe but the commander of the tanker then resumed the route for Libya. After protest from migrants onboard, the vessel then headed to Malta, where it let the migrants off. During the incident, the three youths allegedly hijacked the ship. Hijacking is considered an act of terrorism.(ANSAmed). BRIDGEPORT Arnaldo Camacho claimed he just got the wrong bathroom stall. But the local man is facing two years in prison after he pleaded guilty Wednesday to secretly photographing a 14-year-old boy in a bathroom stall at the Trumbull Shopping Park. Camacho, 30, of Thorme Street, pleaded guilty before Superior Court Judge Frank Iannotti to risk of injury to a child and voyeurism. Senior Assistant States Attorney Tatiana Messina told the judge she will recommend Camacho serve two years in prison, followed by five years of probation when he is sentenced on July 1. But the judge told Camacho he will consider putting him in a supervised diversionary program if he completes sex offender treatment. On June 19, 2018, police were dispatched to the Trumbull Shopping Mall. A man told officers that his 14-year-old son had been secretly photographed while in the bathroom. The father was holding Camacho, who he said had done the photographing. Police said the youth told them he had gone into the bathroom and was in a stall when he looked up and saw a cell phone pointing at him from over the stalls divider. The youth said when he came out of the stall, Camacho was standing in the bathroom holding the cell phone. Police said the boy left the bathroom and notified his father who was standing nearby. The father than grabbed Camacho. Police said Camacho admitted that he had taken two photos of the boy but claimed he had deleted them. Camacho claimed he had previously arranged on the phone app Grindr to meet a man in the mall bathroom for video purposes but apparently had gotten the wrong bathroom stall. Police said when they examined Camachos cell phone they found no photos of the youth, but they did find videos of adult men seated on toilets in bathroom stalls. MILFORD A 20-year-old Guilford man was arrested Friday for his alleged role in a November fracas at a gas station. According to police reports, shortly before 11 p.m. Friday, Milford Police took custody of Miles Seaburg of Guilford on an active warrant for his arrest. Police said Seaburg was accused of engaging in a physical altercation with numerous other males on Nov. 30, 2018 at a New Haven Avenue gas station. SHELTON School bus drivers and monitors on Wednesday voted overwhelmingly in favor of a new contract with Durham School Services. CSEA SEIU Local 2001 Communications Director Ben Phillips called the new contract a tremendous victory for the Shelton drivers and monitors who stood up for themselves and their families and won. According to Phillips, Durham will be required to honor the wages and benefits promised to workers under the previous contract with Landmark Transportation. Included in the agreement is full back pay of the raises due in September 2018, which, Phillips said, Durham had refused to pay. We are very pleased that the contract has been approved, and thank all parties that were involved in these negotiations, Durham School Services media representative Ed Flavin said. As always, we look forward to continuing to serve the Shelton community. The approved deal brings a close what had become several contentious months between Sheltons bus drivers and monitors and their employer, Durham School Services. This deal was first announced last week, only days after Shelton bus drivers and monitors had voted to authorize a strike and even scheduled a walkout. Negotiations started in earnest one day before the walkout was set to begin. Phillips said that in 2018, Durham School Services signed a one-year, multimillion-dollar contract with the Shelton Board of Education to provide school transportation, and school bus workers were covered by a union contract that included negotiated pay and benefits through August 2020. In a prior Facebook post, the union listed several items Durham wanted to remove from the union contract, including retroactive raises, personal days, unpaid extended leave, payment for student endorsement renewal, mileage reimbursement for drug test and medical exams, and payment for travel and testing time of drug tests and medical exams. Employees would also be forced to work the day before and after to receive holiday pay. Durham refused to honor the terms of that contract and canceled raises that had been promised to the drivers and monitors, said Phillips. Phillips said Shelton drivers and monitors refused to give up the pay and benefits that their families depend on, which led to the vote to strike Wednesday, April 24. Bus drivers and monitors held an informational picket on Friday, April 26, and planned to begin striking on April 30 if they were unable to reach an agreement with Durham. After lengthy negotiations, Durham backed down, proving once again that when working people are united together in unions, they win, said Phillips. The City of Shelton will be taking control of school transportation in July, which means that a new contract will be finalized between the city and the drivers and monitors at that time. Both Mayor Mark Lauretti and Phillips confirmed that there have been discussions, but nothing close to being final yet. Durham School Services is a division of National Express LLC which, according to the companys website, is the North American subsidiary of National Express Group PLC, a transportation firm in the United Kingdom. brian.gioiele@hearstmediact.com Tripoli death toll rises to 443 with 2,110 injured, WHO Almost 60,000 IDPs, organization coordinating healthcare (ANSAmed) - TUNIS, MAY 8 - The death toll from the ongoing conflict in the Libyan capital Tripoli has risen to 443 with 2,110 injured, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday. It added that the number of IDPs had risen to 60,000 and that the WHO is working to coordinate healthcare services for them. (ANSAmed). The budget debates in a city like Bridgeport are so familiar as to be predictable. Everyone agrees taxes are too high. The school system desperately needs resources. City services are in danger of major cuts. The industrial tax base has collapsed. And nearly everyone involved in those debates would very much like to be re-elected in the near term. So its easy to say that whats happening in Bridgeport has been repeating itself every year for as long as anyone can remember. It is likely to happen again. That doesnt make the situation any less serious. Its true that the schools will always say they need more money, but the situation faced by the states largest education system is dire. Schools are in danger of closing. Administrator positions (which, contrary to public opinion, are necessary to a functioning system) could be drastically cut. The districts chief financial officer has called the situation a fiscal emergency. Again, these are familiar complaints. But theres little thats more important in a city than educating children, and in a chronically underfunded system, where many students are from disadvantaged backgrounds, the needs are that much greater. Theres only so much that can be cut. The complaints from taxpayers are similarly familiar, and just as serious. Bridgeport has high taxes. This is because it has many needs and its tax base is a shell of its former self, leading to a higher burden on residential property owners. The system Connecticut relies on to fund its government is unfair and outdated, but is not going to change anytime soon. Then theres the election angle. Mayor Joe Ganim is running for another term this fall. He has kept taxes flat, other than an increase early in his term that came from a revaluation and that Ganim managed to blame entirely on his predecessor. Now Ganim wants a tax cut on which to base his next campaign. He had sought a $4.5 million break that would average out to a bit more than $100 per homeowner. Thats not nothing, but is also hardly enough to build a future around. The City Council, instead, passed a smaller tax cut that provides somewhat more money to the school system than Ganim had planned, while still coming in far below what the systems leaders say is needed to maintain basic functions. The mayor has the authority to veto the budget or individual line items. He can have his tax cut and run for another term on a record of saving money for local voters. But that savings would come at a tremendous price. The school system needs money. Theres still uncertainty about what will happen in terms of state funding, on which the system overwhelmingly depends, but the city needs to do more. The mayor should forget his tax cut. He should put the money toward education, where it is most needed. It wont be enough, but its the right course of action, which should count more than a re-election bid. Workplace violence remains a real and increasing threat to Americas workforce. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, approximately two million workers are victims of workplace violence every year and this number is rising. Even more alarming is that homicide is the fourth-leading cause of workplace deaths. In addition to the human toll, estimates put the total economic cost of workplace violence at over $55 billion. In response, U.S. companies have almost universally instituted policies prohibiting any type of workplace violence, in addition to such precursors as inappropriate language, sexual harassment and bullying. While these measures have undoubtedly had some positive impact, it is clear from the statistics that they dont go far enough. In my view as a health care attorney, business owner and specialist in proactive, preventative health care, these policies miss the mark by primarily aiming to control symptoms rather than addressing the underlying issues that contribute to workplace violence. The job-related physical and mental health issues that can most trigger workplace violence are stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional issues that may be exacerbated by the workplace. According to the American Psychological Association, work-related stress can contribute to short temper. Many people resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking or heavy drinking that can actually worsen the situation. BEIRUT - Over 150,000 Syrian civilians have fled a Russian and government offensive in the country's northeast, said the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in a statement released on Wednesday morning. It denounced intense airstrikes on hospitals and other civil infrastructure in the region outside of the Damascus government's control. "The protection of civilians remains the biggest concern," the statement said. It said between April 29 and May 5, over 150,000 people fled the bombardment areas in the Idlib region, indirectly under Turkish control. Russian and government airstrikes have hit about 50 villages, targeting at least 10 school buildings and damaging hospitals and health facilities that serve about 100,000 people. OCHA said between April 28 and May 6 about 80 civilians were killed in airstrikes by Moscow and Damascus in the Idlib region. Our own Bruce Siwy and Eric Kieta talk about their true-crime cases in Return To View: The Roundtable ANSAmed - Tomorrow's events in the Mediterranean (ANSAmed) - ROME, MAY 8 - These are the main events of interest for the Euromediterranean area, scheduled for tomorrow: VARIOUS CITIES - Europe Day to celebrate peace and unity on the continent. LESBOS - visit by the apostolic papal charities chief, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, to show Pope Francis's solidarity with refugees in camps on the Greek island (until 10/5). TIRANA - regional summit of the presidents of Slovenia, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Kosovo, with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini. SIBIU (ROMANIA) - informal meeting of the heads of state or government of the EU, followed by a press conference by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker and European Council President Donald Tusk. GENOA - Porto Antico - Start of the 9th edition of Slow Fish, an international event dedicated to the fishery world and sustainable marine ecosystems (until 12/5). VICENZA - the 11th edition of the International Security Forum starts, promoted by the 11 Settembre cultural association, which will focus on issues in the Mediterranean region over the course of 4 days, until 16/5. The first day will focus on the instability produced by migrations and their exploitation, the language used by the media, and migrants. VICENZA - Convention 'Europe-Mediterranean: Refugees, Migrants, and Security' as part of the festival 'Mare Nostrum? The Difficult Border of Europe: Challenges and Opportunities' (until 16/5). VENICE - Correr Museum - 'Sabra Beauty Everywhere', exhibition by Chiara Dynys with works created in Beirut between 2010 and 2013 (until 24/11). ROME - Spanish Literature Festival organised by the Istituto Cervantes in various locations in the city (until 13/5). (ANSAmed). For all those who keep saying it cant get any weirder, this is on you. Havent we learned not to taunt the gods? Like those good people whose only motivation for voting for Donald Trump was to shake things up. Are we shook up enough yet? But who would have thunk the new man in charge of the Justice Department could establish a world record for shameless obsequiousness this fast? Hes put the ole in grovel and makes Rudy Giuliani look like a blundering, bumbling bungler. Well, he is, but in contrast, the distinction is even more acute. In less than 10 weeks, Attorney General William Barr has defied subpoenas, Congress, the Constitution, common sense, good practices, good grammar and good grooming all to protect the president of the United States from being held responsible for his actions. Appearing in front of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Donald Trumps handpicked replacement for Jeff Sessions proved to be such a presidential lapdog that he should be recognized by the American Kennel Club as the 194th breed. Listen close and you can hear the wailing from Hollywood publicists who realize Barr has lowered the bar and theyre going to have service their clients with even more excessive sycophantic subservience. The phrase bow and scrape will take on asphalt-scuffing connotations. A problem with this new breed of cur is theyre not very housebroken, as hes refused to appear in front of the junior chambers version of a Judiciary Committee, objecting to having committee staff lawyers interrogate him. Answering questions from Congress members is one thing, but actual lawyers? Thats another. Some of those people are smart. He said when the president told former White House counsel Don McGahn to tell Sessions to fire the special counsel, that didnt mean Trump wanted to fire the special counsel. He also believes a president can terminate any proceeding he wants. Because he is The Law. Sylvester Stallone would be so proud. Barr has effectively created a Catch-22: implying that the president cannot commit a crime, hence he cant be subject to a criminal investigation. Funny, he doesnt look like a Norman Mailer fan. Under questioning by California Sen. Kamala Harris, Barr then claimed he couldnt remember if the White House ever asked or suggested that the Justice Department investigate anybody, you know, like an enemies list. Dodging Richard Nixons playbook, he stole a page from Bill Clintons, saying he was confused by the word suggest. He seems perplexed by quite a few words like truth, justice and the American Way. The House plans to initiate contempt proceedings unless Barr hands over the full unredacted version of Muellers report, but enforcement of a contempt charge is the purview of the Justice Department. Headed by the aforementioned William Barr. So chances of him throwing himself in the hoosegaw are somewhere between less than none and dream on big river. Now, calls for the attorney general to resign or threats to impeach him are competing directly with the presidents sticky situation. Maybe the Democrats can set up an abbreviated process. Impeachment: The Short Form. What the hell, throw Mike Pence on the fast track as well. Get some Silicon Valley venture capitalist to fund a start-up. Launch an Impeachment IPO. As Hunter S. Thompson once said, When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro. Will Durst is syndicated by Cagle Cartoons. (ANSAmed) - BERLIN, MAY 8 - German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called on the Libyan government of national accord led by Prime Minister Fayez al Sarraj and the self-proclaimed Libyan National Army commanded by General Khalifa Haftar to return to the negotiating table and reach a ceasefire for the entirety of Ramadan, which started May 5 and goes until June 4. Merkel met with al Sarraj on Tuesday evening in Berlin, and the request was reported by German daily Handelsblatt. Merkel said the "basis for putting an end to the conflict in Libya" is the accord that al Sarraj and Haftar agreed to in February in Abu Dhabi regarding the end of the transition in the country by holding national parliamentary elections. Merkel said she hoped Libya "returns to the political process backed by the United Nations". Al Sarraj, in a Facebook post published on Tuesday night by the press office of the national unity government's presidential council, said he hoped Germany "manages to unify the European position" making it "firm and effective in refusing aggression against Tripoli and war crimes" perpetuated by Haftar's forces. Al Sarraj went back to indirectly refusing the proposal of a ceasefire in Libya during Ramadan, stating that "forces of the government of national accord and those that support it will continue the war to defend the capital until they force the aggressors to retreat and return to their bases".(ANSAmed). VATICAN CITY - A mission by the apostolic papal charities chief, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, aims to ''reopen hearts to hope''. Krajewski was due to arrive on the Lesbos on Wednesday on behalf of the pope to show solidarity to the refugees hosted in local reception centers three years after the Pope Francis's visit to the Greek island just off Turkey. Accompanying him is Monsignor Jean-Claude Hollerich, archbishop of Luxembourg and head of the European Episcopal Commission, COMECE, to express the solidarity of the entire Church of the Old Continent. The trip, which will end on May 10, was organized, according to Vatican News, by the Comunita di Sant'Egidio and the migrants and refugees section of the Service for Integral Human Development. On the agenda is a visit to the Lesbos camps - especially the largest, Moria, the hot-spot that acts as an identification and registration center for migrants, as well as a meeting with local bodies and associations working on the ground. Its graduation time and, mom, youre about to be thanked. Dad, youll likely get a shout out. Favorite English teacher, youre probably in there, too. After 15 years as a professor, I have heard graduates give touching speeches of gratitude to people who have helped them reach their goals. These acknowledgments are an important validation of the efforts associated with getting our students through college and turning them into contributing members of society but they regularly miss a nod to a selfless group. For over a decade now, I have been teaching a class that helps to connect students with professionals. I would find West Chester University alumni and local communication executives to come speak. I reached out to people working in every possible communication field and several completely novel industries. When I asked, these people took the day off work, moved around schedules, drove for hours. Executives from LinkedIn, Twitter, QVC, FOX News, Merck, ABC, the Sundance Film Festival, the U.S. State Department, CBS, the Producer of the Jersey Shore, and more all came just because a professor asked. Thousands of professionals come to college campuses each day to selflessly offer their experience. They ask for nothing but deserve so much. If they provide just one piece of advice or example or can make the right introduction then when you hear your graduates speech of gratitude, take a minute and add your own thanks to all the professionals who helped them land that final leap. J. Kanan Sawyer West Chester University You dont see many politicians smiling these days, but Nigel Farage is positively beaming. Actually, its less of a smile and more of a filthy smirk. It shoots along one side of his face as though someones just recited a particularly inappropriate limerick, culminating, more often than not, in a Popeye-like cackle. Nige is chipper. In the pink. Cock-a-hoop. The reasons are not hard to discern. Ever since our two main political parties connived to serve up a half-baked Brexit compromise, his new outfit, the Brexit Party, has sprung up faster than mustard cress. Nigel Farage is positively beaming. Actually, its less of a smile and more of a filthy smirk The EU elections are in a fortnights time and, if the opinion polls are accurate, Niges lot are going to win in a rout. Its become an axiom of modern British politics: when Westminster wavers, Farage flourishes. Yesterday, the Brexit Party invited the media to an upmarket venue off Londons Pall Mall. We were shown a pacey video of Farage and his disciples out on the stump, complete with swooshy production values and what I can only describe as car alarm music. The Brexit Party clearly has a fat wodge of dough floating about. We heard briefly from party chairman, ex-property magnate Richard Tice, a creamy sort with wavy hair and a taste for expensive tailoring. More Pouilly-Fume than best bitter. Then Farage rose to his feet. Click click click. Photographers swarmed around him the way ants march to a honeypot. Tice, meanwhile, remained studiously ignored. Farage looks fitter than in previous election campaigns. Hes lean and mobile. Gone, too, are those sweat-beaded brows. During the half-hour he spent under the heavy lights in what was a fairly pokey room, his tanned features remained bone-dry. There is also added angriness to his diction. Hes less jokey than in his pie, pint and pinstripe Ukip phase. This is deliberate, Im sure. An attempt to reflect the public mood. I wonder also if his chums across the Atlantic in Trumpland have been giving him a few pointers. He eased himself in with a few ruderies about Westminster. Our political class is despicable. The Prime Minister, in particular, is hopeless. Nor does he think much of Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab Brexiteer candidates lining up to replace her. Ever since our two main political parties connived to serve up a half-baked Brexit compromise, his new outfit, the Brexit Party, has sprung up faster than mustard cress Winning the European elections on May 23 is not going to be enough, he announced. Over the next few months, the Brexit Party will begin vetting candidates to fight the next general election. They will be people with real world experience not a bunch of swotty, Oxford PPE graduates who have rarely ventured outside SW1. Farage made it clear he isnt much interested in attracting disaffected Tory MPs. His experience with Ukip was that when it bagged an anti-EU defector, they usually ended up causing him trouble. What he was more interested in was nabbing their donors. And hes already done just that or so he claimed. At this point, he got a tad shirty. Barely ten per cent of the Brexit Partys funding has come through private donations, he said, and their identities will only be revealed when the Electoral Commission publishes them. And, no, his old friend from the referendum campaign, Arron Banks, is not involved. There were a few Trump-style verbal pork pies lobbed at broadcasters and the Press. He took a pop at the BBC for not inviting any Brexit Party candidates on TV over the weekend. Im not sure what that should mean for the future of public broadcasting, he muttered. A reporter from the Guardian got short shrift for asking about his appearance as a guest on a conspiracy theorists webcast. When it comes to conspiracy theories, your papers way, way ahead! Farage scoffed. Policies? Pah, dont need any of those, he insisted. Not yet, anyway. He simply wants to get as many Brexit Party MEPs as possible so they can stick it to Monsieur Barnier et al in Brussels. And with a final flick of his wrist, he went back to grinning for the cameras. Say what you like about Nigel Farage, if theres a general election before the end of the year, his signature grin will be as immovable as the one on the Cheshire Cat in Alice In Wonderland. Much has been written about the wonder of childbirth, but Prince Harry perhaps summed it up best when, announcing the arrival of his son to the nation, he lifted his hands to his temples in a universal gesture of disbelief and said: 'How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension.' On behalf of the nation's mothers, may I just say 'thank you'. It's nice to be acknowledged. Although, to be honest, most of us are not really sure how we do it, either. The merciful thing about childbirth is that, however traumatic it turns out to be, however painful or difficult, the memory of the horror of it all seems to fade remarkably quickly. Prince Harry perhaps summed it up best when, announcing the arrival of his son to the nation he lifted his hands to his temples in a universal gesture of disbelief and said: 'How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension' The worst bits are soon forgotten, replaced by a general non-specific feeling of hormone-induced fuzziness and, if my experience is anything to go by, a strong desire for chocolate. No doubt it is Mother Nature's cunning way to ensure we come back for more. Were it not for the sponge of amnesia wiping clean the slate of memory, no woman in her right mind would even contemplate doing it again, and the human race would slowly grind to a halt. So not only is it encouraging if someone like Harry shows such appreciation for his own wife and mothers in general; it's also vitally important for all the fathers out there to be reminded of what women go through. Because while mothers have a biological need to gloss over the finer details of what they, and their bodies, endure during childbirth, men do not. All women become mothers the moment they give birth. But not all men become fathers straight away. Not only is it encouraging if someone like Harry shows such appreciation for his own wife and mothers in general; it's also vitally important for all the fathers to be reminded of what women go through That is something they learn, over time, as the bond with their child grows and strengthens. And that's the challenge facing every new parent like Harry, regardless of age or class or creed. Every man can glory in the wonder of parenthood in the aftermath of birth. It's sustaining that sentiment that counts. And it's hard, especially in today's world, where expectations of male parenthood are so high. Modern convention has it that fathers must be almost as hands-on as mothers, participating fully in the day-to-day minutiae of a child's first weeks and months. But while society moves on, nature doesn't change. And that's where reality and expectations often clash. Truth is, having a baby almost always means an automatic albeit temporary demotion for new fathers. Even the closest and most loving of couples will have to adjust to the new space between them. Men can go from being the centre of their partner's world to being the third person in a new, often extremely intense love affair between mother and child. It's strange and unexpected: they can find themselves competing for affection with the very thing that is supposed to bring them all together as a family. In some ways, it defies all logic. The new arrival has no manners, very poor personal hygiene and little respect for civilised convention. It can feel like a small tyrant has entered their lives, robbing them not only of the attentions of their beloved, but filling the home with strange new smells and endless plastic paraphernalia. Add the presence of other females in Harry's case, his mother-in-law Doria, who has taken up residence in the couple's new home and it can be hard for a poor fellow not to feel overwhelmed. In less enlightened times, this, perhaps, didn't matter quite as much. Fathers were not expected to be as fully invested in the newborn as they are now, to be quite so au fait with the mysterious workings of breast pumps and babygrows. They could just make themselves scarce, spend more time at work, retreat into the world of men. But now equality has prevailed that the importance of shared parental leave is enshrined in law, the pressure on new dads to perform to expectations is just as pressing as for new mothers. They can't just retire to the allotment if things get too much; they have to be at their partner's side, or society will judge them lacking. It's good that young fathers like Harry feel this way. But as the days pass and the excitement of the event begins to fade as the novelty of a new baby gives way to the realities of family life, there may be times when fatherhood feels far from simple, far from the straightforwardly joyous journey it's made out to be. Then it will help to remember: how any woman does what they do may be beyond comprehension, but it doesn't mean being a father is easy either. Those who succeed in doing it well (and I'm certain Harry will) deserve every bit as much praise and encouragement as the women who make it all possible. She'll be bare for you... If I had worked as hard as actress Jennifer Aniston to have a body like this at 50, I too would probably take every chance to show it off On the principle that if I had worked as hard as actress Jennifer Aniston to have a body like this at 50, I too would probably take every chance to show it off. So I cant begrudge her this latest scantily-clad photo shoot. Still, theres a fine line between flaunting ones figure and looking like a Saturday night strip-o-gram and this ensemble, sad to say, crosses it. The TV presenter Davina McCall has told of how, as a teenager, she took drugs with her mother Florence. 'When I was young, being with Mum, there were no boundaries,' she said. 'Wearing make-up, short skirts, high heels at 13, drinking . . . eventually, I even took drugs with her.' At the time McCall, who later developed her own addictions to drugs and alcohol, was living with her grandparents while her mother, who left when Davina was three, lived in France. TV presenter Davina McCall has told of how, as a teenager, she took drugs with her mother Florence My guess is that Florence, desperate somehow to connect with the child she had abandoned, set aside all sense of being a responsible parent in favour of being the 'cool' one. Such shortcuts to a child's affections never pay off and as Davina's story proves can have devastating consequences. One of the most important lessons of being a parent is understanding that you are not your child's friend. You are their carer, their protector, their provider, but never no matter how much you might want to be their friend. Breaking the spell This week the unmistakable sight of a Starbucks cup was spotted in a scene featuring Queen Daenerys Fair to say the final season of Game Of Thrones hasn't quite lived up to expectations. Last week's much anticipated battle of Winterfell, while indubitably epic, was filmed in tones so dim the Night King himself might have been forgiven for bumping into the furniture. And this week the spell was further broken by the unmistakable sight of a Starbucks cup in a scene featuring Queen Daenerys. Picture the scene in Starbucks: Daenerys: 'I'll have a flat white to go, please, extra hot.' Server: 'Sure. Can I take your name please? Daenerys: 'Queen Daenerys Stormborn of the House Targaryen, the First of Her Name, Queen of the Andals, the Rhoynar and the First Men, Lady of the Seven Kingdoms and Protector of the Realm, Lady of Dragonstone, Queen of Meereen, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, the Unburnt, Breaker of Chains and Mother of Dragons.' Server: 'Er, will Dany be OK?' As if vegan Percy Pigs weren't bad enough, in a bid to corner the market in 'woke' groceries M&S now has an LGBT (lettuce, guacamole, bacon and tomato) sandwich for Gay Pride week. Add Quorn and it could be an LGBTQ sandwich . . . Hurrah for 'difficult women' The British Film Institute has got itself into a spot of bother. In a move that seems surprising given the hyper-sensitive times in which we live, it has announced a season of movies entitled: Playing The Bitch. It's a cracking list: among others, The Little Foxes starring Bette Davis; Dangerous Liaisons (featuring Glenn Close as the wicked Marquise de Merteuil); and one of my favourites, The Life And Loves Of A She-Devil. Still, that word, 'bitch', has outraged more than 300 academics and critics who wrote to the BFI complaining about the term and accusing it of 'parroting' Hollywood misogyny. Nonsense. All the most interesting, fearless women in history, from Cleopatra to Elizabeth I to Mrs T, have at some time been accused of being bitches. It's just shorthand for a woman who knows her own mind and isn't afraid to use it. Though he (nearly) outshone Lady Gaga, Im not sure about Harry Styless new jumpsuit and heels look at the Met Gala. Still, it was by far the least silly outfit on show. Next year, try something truly outrageous: a suit. On Tuesday, I wrote about how both the Prime Minister, and more recently the Pope, have criticised the practice or is it the art? of gossip. In his welcoming address to a group of weary pilgrim hairdressers, Pope Francis advised them to 'avoid falling into the temptation of gossip that is easily associated with your work'. But what to do instead? Presumably, His Holiness wouldn't want these poor hairdressers to stay silent while cutting, washing and drying. Yet he offered no advice on how to talk without gossiping, which, as we all know, is almost as hard as talking without using the letter 'e'. Almost all conversation, other than the most technical, involves some level of gossip We all gossip, even if we like to think it's what other people do. In fact, it might be conjugated like this: I take an interest. You like to know what's going on. He gossips. Some people affect to pooh-pooh gossip in favour of higher things. 'I am above all that,' they say. 'My interests lie in philosophy and politics.' This is surely what Theresa May was suggesting when she boasted, on entering the Tory leadership contest in 2015, 'I don't gossip about people over lunch.' Of course, she might have meant that she only ever gossips over breakfast, tea and supper, but I doubt it. She wanted everyone to believe her to be so high-minded that, as the late Tony Benn used to put it, she preferred to 'keep personalities out of it, and stick to the issues'. Yet the two cannot be separated. Mrs May's cautious conservatism is part and parcel of her character, just as Mr Corbyn's dreary Marxism is part and parcel of his. As Benn grew older, he became more and more interested in personalities, and less and less in politics. By the penultimate volume of his diaries, there's barely an entry that isn't tinged with gossip. In the final volume, he reads through his old diaries, and ruefully admits that, despite what he used to say, he never managed to keep personalities out of it. 'I have been very abusive, and despite all I say about not making personal attacks, my diary is full of them: 'he's an awful man', 'I loathe him', 'he's pompous', 'he's arrogant'.' Yet Benn need not have worried. After all, gossip is only history, plus time. At the moment, taking an interest in, say, the love triangle of Charles, Diana and Camilla is regarded as low-brow. Yet in a hundred years time, the three of them will be part of the A-Level history curriculum, and students will be forced to learn the names of all the minor characters James Hewitt, Paul Burrell, Sarah Ferguson off by heart. Pope Francis (pictured yesterday at the Vatican) offered no advice on how to talk without gossiping, which, as we all know, is almost as hard as talking without using the letter 'e' Wait 500 years, and what was once seen as tittle-tattle turns miraculously into scholarship. Every few years, a respectable historian publishes a book about Charles's ancestor King Henry VIII and his six wives. Old gossip from the trial of Anne Boleyn is reheated: how she had lovers galore, and seduced her own brother, as the prosecution chose to put it, by 'alluring him with her tongue in his mouth, and his tongue in hers'. Hey presto! As if by magic, gossip transforms into history. Almost all conversation, other than the most technical, involves some level of gossip, because when people speak they tend to speak about other people. Pope Francis might have been better off warning the hairdressers away from the only two unforgivable forms of gossip the dull and the false. The dull is easy to identify. A good example comes in the letters of Sir John Gielgud. 'Did I tell you,' he asks his fellow actor Michael York on June 2, 1977, 'of the awful moment when Princess Grace came round in New York and for one ghastly second I ALMOST greeted her as Deborah Kerr!' False gossip, harder to identify, is what continues to give gossip a bad name. Sometimes, it is made up with malicious intent, but it can also result from a mis-hearing. John Mortimer once put it about that Kingsley Amis had admitted that he had 'hit his son with a hammer'. In fact, Mortimer had misheard. What Kingsley Amis had really said was that he had hit his thumb with a hammer, which is quite another thing. My advice to Pope Francis? Call those hairdressers back and tell them to carry on gossiping, but to make absolutely sure that everyone can hear. Their unconventional romance has always been the subject of much fascination, but a new book on the love story between Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte suggests the First Lady of France has been left disenfranchised by their union. Explosive book Il Venait d'Avoir 17 (He Had Just Turned 17) by French journalist Sylvie Bommet, which has just been published in France, retraces the life of a figure commonly referred to as 'potiche' - a word used to describe pretty but useless women. According to the novel, Brigitte, now 66, left a boring marriage and defied her traditional upbringing in the hope of a more exciting life with a younger man - but the reality of her life is now very different. Despite rumours that she's an expert manipulator, whispering in the ear of the President and having him act on her political desires, she's in fact completely stifled and controlled by his communications team, the author claims. Brigitte Macron, 66, met her husband when she was 39 and him 15. A new book claims the once audacious woman has become a more controlled and cautious First Lady than most (pictured: Brigitte Macron during the Paris G7 in February) Their love story fascinates everyone. Being 24 years apart, the pair (pictured in Hamburg in 2017) dated for 12 years while Brigitte was still married to her first husband Pictured as a young woman, Brigitte tasked herself to become the perfect housewife and mother. As a first lady, she pales in comparison to other 'President wives', the book claims Bommet conducted her research by visiting every city or town Brigitte set foot in before becoming Macron's high profile wife. She explains that when rumour had it Macron might be gay and having an affair, an earnest Brigitte went to the press, with pictures, and unveiled the secrets of their passionate love life. The photographs, portraying the couple's lavish lifestyle, angered the French public, Macron's political adversaries and his own chief of communication. Emmanuel had to issue a public apology on behalf of his wife 'who wasn't used to the media', and ever since, Brigitte's publicity has been very closely handled by the president's communication team. The couple are reportedly deeply in love. Brigitte left her first husband - with whom she had three children - after 12 years spent dating Macron on the weekends According to Bommet, Brigitte has since become a 'ghost' and lost her own agency when Macron became president. She goes on to compare her to the wives of Francois Mitterand, Jacques Chirac and Francois Hollande. While Francois Mitterand was in charge, between 1981 and 1995, his wife Danielle presented herself as an activist and humanitarian. She even defied French police authorities by embracing Fidel Castro and inviting him to France in 1995. Jacques Chirac's wife Bernadette, while shy and demure, became the president of the 'Yellow Coin Operation' in 1994. The campaign, created in 1990, still exists and aims to provide care for hospitalised children and their families. Bernadette became extremely invested with her work with the association and is still active to this day, at age 85. A couple that votes together stays together: The Macrons pictured during the first round of the French legislative elections in 2017. Sylvie Bommet claims that, compared to other wives of French presidents, Brigitte has failed to make her mark in the post Pictured: A young Emmanuel Macron. Brigitte, who was raised in a traditional way by respectable parents, allegedly lost her head to the brilliant 'overachieving' student Danielle Mitterand (left), who died in 2011, carved out an identity for herelf as an activist and humanitarian. Bernadette Chirac (right) is known for her Yellow Coin Campaign to help sick children and their families Meanwhile the estranged wife of Macron's predecessor, Francois Hollande, made a somewhat infamous name for herself by dishing out on the president and their marriage while Hollande was still in office. Bommet's argument is that Brigitte pales in comparison to these other 'president's wives', as she is reduced to her wardrobe choices and her age by the media and not invested in much else - at least publicly. The book also claims that while Brigitte, an educated and modern woman, is often seen on the covers of magazines, she rarely speaks out on contemporary issues and fails to hold a firm position on any of them. The friendliest of welcomes: Sylvie Bommet claims Brigitte is yet to stand her ground on contemporary issues and adds that while the French Lady expressed her support for the #MeToo movement, she seems delighted to welcome Donald Trump in November 2018 (pictured) Since Macron became France's president in 2017, his wife has made the cover of countless magazines and wowed with her fashion choices, but has remained relatively guarded, the book claims Bommet paints Brigitte as a brilliant woman seduced by her 'intellectual affinity' with her young student, who later becomes content with being silenced and 'friends with everyone and anyone'. Il Venait d'Avoir 17 ans, by Sylvie Bommet, 17.90 (15.38), published by JCLattes in France Since Macron launched his bid for the presidency back in 2016, and after he won the election in 2017, all eyes have been on him and his wife, who is 24 years his senior. The couple, who met when Macron was just 15 and Brigitte 39, share an atypical romance, to say the least. The pair met in high school, with Macron the brilliant student falling fast and hard for the passionate literature teacher. The two grew close, especially after Macron, then 16, joined the school's drama club - managed by none other than Brigitte. The book, however, blasts rumours that Brigitte and Macron started dating when he was 15 and a student in the high school where she taught. Instead, Bommet recounts a long 10-year period where the couple would only see each other on weekends while Macron studied in Paris or Strasbourg, and while Brigitte was still married to her first husband. At the time, Brigitte was wedded to Andre Auziere, a quiet man who was more demure and taciturn than the 'fun-loving' and 'exuberant' Brigitte, described by her friends. A love like no other. Sylvie Bommet agrees that the couple - first lady included - seem perfectly content with their situation The couple had three children - the eldest being the same age as Macron. Before she met Emmanuel at the school's drama club, Brigitte worked hard to be the perfect housewife for her banker husband, described as a 'nice man with a strong moral compass' by some family friends and as a 'kill-joy' by others. As a child and teenager, Brigitte was described as somewhat 'rebellious'. But leaving her husband for a teenager not even half her age is about the most scandalous thing the mother-of-three - and grandmother - has ever done. Il Venait d'Avoir 17 ans, by Sylvie Bommet, 17.90 (15.38), published by JCLattes in France Amber Heard has opened up about the strain of her ongoing legal struggle with ex-husband Johnny Depp, while speaking out about what it means for a woman to stand up for herself. The 33-year-old actress made headlines for accusing her ex-husband of becoming a 'monster' during their marriage and allegedly abusing her, all of which Depp, 55, has denied and called 'new lies' from Heard. And while speaking at female-focused conference Create and Cultivate over the weekend, The Hollywood Reporter says Heard hinted at the toll that her ongoing legal battle has taken, telling her audience: 'I suffered the full force of the wrath of our culture when a woman or survivor speaks up against a more powerful force. Battling: Amber Heard hinted at legal troubles with ex-husband Johnny Depp (pictured together in January 2016) while attending the Create & Cultivate conference in Brooklyn Trouble: During the event, she confessed she has been working with lawyers a lot more recently. This comes after Depp filed a defamation suit against Heard for her abuse allegations 'I have seen that firsthand - from death, threats, harassment, bullying, invasion of my privacy, threats to my career and my safety. 'And yet, I'm still here. I refuse to accept those be the terms that other people, who are in positions of power, who seek to maintain the status quo, have set for me. I refuse to stand in line.' She continued by saying that she would rather be 'unpopular' if it means that she can pass on the lesson to 'my daughters and their daughters' that it is important to stand up for yourself and 'do the hard stuff' in order to stay true to what is right. Concerning: Depp filed the defamation lawsuit against his ex-wife after she submitted an op-ed about the alleged abuse she received during their marriage Heard did not reference her legal battle specifically, and she did not mention Depp by name throughout the talk. However she did address the fact that she has had to spend 'a lot more time with layers' in recent months, further hinting at the fact that the legal troubles have taken a serious toll on her day-to-day life. 'I've known a lot of lawyers in my life,' Heard added to lawyer and I Am a Voter founder Mandana Dayani as her key note talk came to an end, according to Refinery29. 'Unfortunately, I've spent a lot more time with them lately than I'd like.' She then thanked Dayani for being an 'unstoppable force' in the world. However, despite the difficulties she has faced, Heard stated that she remains incredibly proud to have 'stood up for what is right and true' - despite the toll it may have taken. 'When I look back on all the things I've done, sure I am proud of my professional accomplishments and movies,' she said. 'But that is nothing in comparison to the pride I feel for what I stood up for because it was right and true. I did that despite what it cost me.' Heard's comments about her legal battle come after she submitted an op-ed to the Washington Post about her alleged abusive relationship with Depp. The couple married in 2015 before Heard filed a domestic violence restraining order against Depp in May 2016. After a brief legal battle, the couple settled their divorce out of court in August 2016 with Heard getting $7 million. She donated the money to charity. Depp has since sued Heard for defamation after her op-ed released. In her article, she commented on how the public reacted to her accusations against the popular Pirates of the Caribbean actor regarding abuse. Proud: Heard also spoke during the conference about the importance of standing up for oneself, even if it makes it so that person loses followers Outspoken: 'I would rather go down for being who I am than to be popular for something I am not,' she told the crowd of 1,500 people at the conference 'Two years ago, I became a public figure representing domestic abuse, and I felt the full force of our cultures wrath for women who speak out,' she wrote at the time. This has led to a legal battle between Depp and Heard, who stands by her statements against her ex-husband. 'Whenever he was using [drugs] I worried for both of us,' Heard stated in an affidavit obtained by CNN in April. 'He would become a totally different person, often delusional and violent. We called that version of Johnny, 'the Monster.'' As well as speaking at the conference briefly about spending time with lawyers, Heard also spoke about standing up for ones beliefs even if it could lead to them losing followers and fans. 'I would rather go down for being who I am than to be popular for something I am not. Wouldn't you?' she said to the crowd. 'So lose the followers [who disagree], you'll get a lot more!' During this chat, Heard also encouraged people to break the status quo when thinking about ways to make a difference in the world. 'Only the people who benefit from the status quo don't want to change it ... the world that's better for someone else is going to be an inherently better world for you,' Heard said. She went on describing the pressure for women to create a brand and stick to it in different avenues of their own careers. 'Women are always expected to create a brand, even if you dont have social media following,' Heard said before acknowledging the pressure on women to be a specific size or look a particular way. 'By the time youre 12 years old, you have to know that an implicit apology will be expected of you for how you look,' she continued. An estimated 1,500 people attended the conference on Saturday. The event aims to unite '80+ CEOs, content creators and celebrities ... to discuss key topics surrounding entrepreneurship, the digital space, and life as a modern working woman.' Other celebrities at Saturday's event included Martha Stewart, Kate Walsh, Ashley Graham and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. Ivanka Trump enjoyed a picnic with her three children on Monday after a day of meetings at work. The 37-year-old first daughter took to Instagram to share photos of her children Arabella, seven, Joseph, five, and Theodore, three, sitting on top of two striped beach towels that were laid out on the grass. The proud mom also posted a snapshot of the menu her eldest child created in honor of their outdoor dinner date complete with a packed picnic basket. Family time: Ivanka Trump, 37, took to Instagram on Monday to share photos of her children Arabella, seven, Joseph, five, and Theodore (not pictured), three, enjoying a picnic Detailed: The proud mom also posted a snapshot of the menu her Arabella created in honor of their outdoor dinner date complete with a packed picnic basket On the menu for the evening was tomato, olive, and cucumber skewers with mint, 'Joseph's favorite chicken,' beef egg rolls, mixed vegetables, sliced watermelon, mixed greens salad with onion dressing, and 'love.' 'Picnic dinner date. Menu: courtesy Arabella (best ingredient: Love),' she captioned the images. In the family photo, Joseph is removing the plates from the picnic basket while Arabella is lying on her stomach, snacking on a skewer. Although Theodore is cropped out of the first snapshot, the picture Ivanka shared on her Instagram Stories shows her youngest child sitting next to his sister, patiently waiting to be served. The children, who were all wearing short-sleeve shirts, appeared to be enjoying the unusually warm spring weather in D.C. on Monday. All together: Although Theodore is cropped out of the first snapshot, the picture Ivanka shared on her Instagram Stories shows her youngest child sitting next to his sister It's unclear if Ivanka was spending some one-on-one time with her children, or if they were joined by her husband, White House senior adviser Jared Kushner. Earlier in the day, Ivanka met with Nikki Haley, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, and Marta Ramirez, the Vice President of Columbia. Ivanka shared a photo of herself posing with Nikki, 47, writing: 'Great start to the week seeing my good friend Ambassador @NikkiHaley!' The White House senior adviser also documented her meeting with Marta, posting a picture of herself smiling with the Colombian leader. 'On August 7, 2018, Marta Ramirez became the 1st woman Vice President in the history of Colombia,' she wrote. 'Prior, she was her countrys 1st female Minister of Defense. All smiles: Earlier in the day, Ivanka met with Nikki Haley, the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Women who work: Ivanka, who donned a sleeveless top and a floral skirt, also met with Marta Ramirez (left), the Vice President of Columbia 'Marcia is a formidable champion in the fight against corruption & in advancing gender equality & security.' Ivanka looked ready for summer in a sleeveless mock turtleneck, which she wore tucked into a white circle skirt with purple flower print. The first daughter had her long blonde hair pulled back into a messy bun and wore minimal jewelry aside from the red string she sometimes wears on her left wrist. Though she hasn't spoken about the purpose of the bracelet, it does bear a resemblance to the type of red string that Kabbalah practitioners wear to ward off the 'evil eye.' Arabella and Theodore were pictured wearing similar strings on their wrists in the picnic photo she shared later in the day. Back to the grind: On Tuesday, the mother-of-three was seen heading to work in a black Secret Service SUV that left straight from the garage of her Washington, D.C. home Bipartisan conversation: She wore a white pantsuit to meet with Democrat Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire Meet and greet: Ivanka also met with Chicago Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot on Tuesday and posted a snapshot to in honor of their discussion On Tuesday, the mother-of-three was seen heading to work in a black Secret Service SUV that left straight from the garage of her Washington, D.C. home. Later in the day, she met with Sen. Jeanne Shaheen. The Democratic politician made history as the first female U.S. Senator in New Hampshire. She was also the first female to be elected governor of New Hampshire and the first woman in United States history to be elected as both governor and senator 'Always a pleasure meeting with @SenatorShaheen and talking Women, Peace and Security! #WPS #WGDP,' Ivanka captioned the image, which shows her modeling a white pantsuit while posing with her arm around Sen. Shaheen. Ivanka also met with Chicago Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot on Tuesday and posted a snapshot to in honor of their discussion. Getaway: In honor of the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, she posted a snapshot of herself horseback riding Busy: Ivanka later shared an image of herself in a cozy bathrobe while working in her unmade bed as the light streamed in through the window 'Wonderful mtg Chicago Mayor-elect Lightfoot, the 1st African-American woman & 1st openly gay person to lead the city,' she wrote. 'Great discussion on topics including economic revitalization, workforce dev, vocational edu, CJR reform & crime prevention. I look forward to working together.' It appears as though Ivanka spent some of her weekend working ahead of her meetings, despite being on a getaway. In honor of the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, she posted a snapshot of herself donning a ruffled navy and burgundy checked button-down, skinny jeans, and Western boots, while horseback riding. 'Ladies & Gentlemen, its Derby weekend!' she wrote. Ivanka later shared an image of herself in a cozy bathrobe while sitting in her unmade bed. Her legs are crossed and her laptop is resting on a pillow in front of her, serving as a makeshift desk. Sunlight is shining through one of the open windows as she works. Advertisement Julie Bishop has lived up to her 'minister of fashion' status and managed to make a plain shirt look stylish as she attended a White Shirt Day cancer charity event on Wednesday. The former Foreign Affairs Minister was at Witchery Headquarters in Melbourne along with a number of other high-profile women to raise awareness for ovarian cancer on World Ovarian Cancer Day. Ms Bishop put her best foot forward, styling her crisp white button up shirt with a pair of tight leather coated pants and bold designer earrings. The 62-year-old accessorised with a pair of black suede pumps with a silver feature heel, bold red nail polish, and her signature pixie-cut hairdo appeared slightly shorter than usual. Ms Bishop's makeup was minimal but glamorous, with a dewy finish of foundation, a swipe of pink blush and a natural pink lip. Former Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop was at Witchery Headquarters in Melbourne on Wednesday in celebration of World Ovarian Cancer Day More than 60 men and women donned their best white shirts to turn out for Wednesday's event in Melbourne, along with OCRF CEO Lucinda Nolan (left) Bishop was more than happy to pose for photographers and chat with press at the White Shirt Day event at Witchery headquarters in Melbourne The Witchery White Shirt campaign is now in its 11th year, with 100 per cent of gross proceeds going towards the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. The womenswear label's month-long campaign, which comes to a head on White Shirt Day today, is dear to the retired Liberal MP's heart - her two older sisters were previously diagnosed with ovarian cysts. 'I'm obviously keen to be involved in fashion but today's event is something quite different,' Ms Bishop told reporters on Wednesday. 'So when I was asked to be an ambassador, I readily agreed because not much is known about ovarian cancer and we need more funds to be able to develop an early detection test to save lives.' Instagram stars Stephanie Smith and Laura Henshaw posed for photos and had a chat with the former deputy leader of the Liberal Party. Witchery's month long campaign, which comes to a head on White Shirt Day on Wednesday, is dear to the retired Liberal MP's heart - her two older sisters were previously diagnosed with ovarian cysts Earlier this year, Julie Bishop announced she was an ambassador for Witchery's White Shirt Day event in support of the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation Ms Bishop couldn't wipe the smile off her face as she posed for press photographs and mingled with other guests. More than 60 men and women donned their best white shirts to turn out for Wednesday's event in Melbourne, along with OCRF CEO Lucinda Nolan. Television personality Anna Heinrich, Aussie actress Jessica McNamee, ovarian cancer researcher Dr Maree Bilandzic and journalist Brooke Boney are among the women who took part in the month-long campaign, which begun on April 10. Instagram influencers Stephanie Claire Smith and Laura Henshaw donned white button up shirts to attend the event in Melbourne on Wednesday Julie Bishop poses for the press with influencers and co-owners of exercise website Keep It Cleaner Stephanie Claire Smith (left) and Laura Henshaw (right) In March, Bishop announced her ambassadorship for the charity's campaign. 'Proud to announce that I am an official ambassador for @witcheryfashion #WhiteShirtCampaign in support of @ocf,' she wrote on Twitter, next to a photo of her in a white shirt. 'For every white shirt sold, 100 per cent of gross proceeds is donated to OCRF, undertaking vital research to find an early detection test.' Julie Bishop's makeup was minimal but glamorous, with a dewy finish of foundation, a swipe of pink blush and a natural pink lip A travelling couple who took a very risky photo while hanging out of a moving train has started a dangerous copycat trend. Portuguese bloggers Raquel and Miguel from @explorerssaurus_ took the original snapshot while riding along the train tracks of Ella, a small town located in Sri Lanka, in February. Hundreds of travellers have since tried to recreate the shot, sparking concerns they are 'risking their lives' for the sake of a perfect Instagram photo. Just three days ago London-based couple Jean and Camille, who blog on @backpackdiariez, performed a similar kiss, leaning out of the same train while travelling along a steep bridge. Portuguese bloggers Raquel and Miguel from @explorerssaurus_ took the snapshot of themselves riding along the train tracks of Ella, a small town located in Sri Lanka, in February Holding onto the railing was all that stopped both couples from plunging hundreds of metres into a forest below. Critics soon attacked them over their complete disregard of the dangers. 'You'd risk your lives just for a picture? Just so you can upload it on social media? Or do you do this because this gives you 'the rush'? How is this sensible? Anything could've happened,' one woman wrote on Instagram. Just three days ago London-based couple Jean and Camille performed a similar kiss, leaning out of the same train while travelling along a steep bridge (left) The initial effect was one of outrage from some of their followers, who criticised their complete disregard for the danger (another couple pictured on the train) Another commented: 'I would never promote a picture like this since there are not few people stupid enough to feel encouraged to try and recreate the idea. What you do and the models do is only their own responsibility. But you should see your responsibility for influencing others.' One chimed in: 'Two idiots risking their lives and others' lives just to get likes.' The months between both photos have seen a number of couples - and individuals - share eerily similar images of themselves poking out from the train. Some show just their head out the window while others are barefoot and leaning forward in a way that incites fear in their own smaller followings. Some show just their head out the window while others are barefoot and leaning forward in a way that incites fear in their own smaller followings 'This doesn't look safe. Be careful out there,' one person cautioned 'This doesn't look safe. Be careful out there,' one person cautioned. 'Wow! Braver than me,' said another. A third added: 'Seems like a lot of effort just for a photo'. But those who have been criticised were quick to defend themselves saying that unless you've been to the exact train network, you can't know how safe it is to do something like that. Raquel from @explorerssaurus_ said in a following blog post: 'Can you see my hair moving? This was how fast we were going.' But those who have been criticised were quick to defend themselves saying that unless you've been to the exact train network, you can't know how safe it is to do something like that 'It's better to go to the places before you say these kinds of rude things about people you don't know at all,' she said. 'Even for not a fit person we don't think this is dangerous at all. It's much more dangerous some hikes we did before [sic]. 'If you did this journey you'd also know that the train goes really slow, especially when crossing bridges. 'It was moving super slow, almost not moving, my hair was barely moving.' Described as one of 'the most scenic train rides in the world' it travels from Kandy in the north to Ella in the south of the country Described as one of 'the most scenic train rides in the world', the route travels from Kandy in the north to Ella in the south of the country. Tickets can be purchased for $1.50 if you're willing to take the five-hour journey. Photographer Journey Era, who has also been on the trip, said passengers should be mindful about hanging out of the moving carts for too long because 'there are trees and tunnels that come close to the train'. But there are no strict safety warnings given to travellers who hop on board. Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel started off their third day in Vietnam with a morning dance. The Swedish royal, 41 and husband Daniel, 45, took to the streets of Hanoi and looked in good spirits as they copied a local traditional morning dance. Instead of breakfast the couple twisted and turned as they giggled - while Princess Victoria seemed to love the morning sport. Despite the rainy weather and early start they took part in the one minute dance, despite a few awkward steps from them both. Instead of breakfast the couple twisted and turned as they giggled - while Princess Victoria seemed to love the morning sport Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel started off their third day in Vietnam with a morning dance Crown Princess Victoria wore a plain cream t-shirt and blue patterned trousers and white trousers as she put her hand on her hip and one hand in the air becoming involved in the dance. Prince Daniel looked a bit more uncomfortable as he wore a blue shirt and black jeans and attempted to stay in time with the dance moves. At one point Victoria carried on, while Daniel looked as though he wanted to give up, as locals watched them dance. But the couple smiled and giggled throughout the dance, which was Crown Princess Victoria wore a plain cream t-shirt and blue patterned trousers and white trousers as she put her hand on her hip and one hand in the air becoming involved in the dance The royal couple were out of time with the local morning dance but despite the odd bad dance move had fun The both seemed in good spirits and Crown Victoria giggled her way through the dance After the lighthearted work-out, the royal couple made their way to Hoan Kiem Lake to soak up the early morning atmosphere. Walking over the bridge and posing in front of a temple on the lake they were then shown the local area by a guide. Yesterday the The heir apparent to the Swedish throne, visited a village in Hanoi where local crafts are made, before tucking into a popular Vietnamese dish for lunch. Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel started off their third day in Vietnam with a morning dance Victoria was keen to copy the local women who taught them the traditional dance and wa sin time for most of it Victoria carried on the dance as they left and seemed very into it, while Daniel had given up On their first day of the tour, the royal, along with Prince Daniel, embarked on a guided tour of Hotel Metropole and attended an official lunch with the Vice President of Vietnam Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh. They also visited the upper secondary school Thuc Nghiem, where Victoria was handed a beautiful bouquet of yellow flowers, and attended an evening welcome dinner hosted by the Vietnamese government. And with the eventful day came several outfit changes, as the royal was pictured wearing a white dress featuring pink butterflies, before changing into a lemon flora dress and a multi-coloured number. After the lighthearted work-out, the royal couple made their way to Hoan Kiem Lake to soak up the early morning atmosphere Royal fans have gone into meltdown after Harry and Meghan introduced baby Archie to the world for the first time, declaring that he looks 'just like Momma'. Harry and Meghan declined to say who they think he takes after, with the new dad explaining: 'Everyone says the baby has changed so much over the two weeks. 'We are basically monitoring how the changing process over this next month. But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows.' However, royal fans are sure the new baby, who has been named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, closely resembles his mother, Meghan. Declaring the newborn 'precious', Twitter users were overjoyed at finally seeing the new arrival, and celebrities were also quick to offer their their good wishes. Peter Andre wrote 'love them, congratulations' on Instagram as she shared a photo of the new baby, while Frank Bruno also tweeted to say the new arrival is 'beautiful'. Baby Archie is here! The first born of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle was born on 6 May at 5:26am, weighting 7lbs 3oz Just like his Mum: Fans commented how much the newborn, who has been named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, looks like Meghan, pictured as a baby Royal supporters were delighted to see the strong similarity between royal mother and son Prince Harry as a baby in the arms of his mother the late Princess Diana photographed in August 1985 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were seen with their newborn son for the first time today, following his arrival early Monday morning. New parents Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, beamed with pride as they took part in a photo call within St Georges Hall in Windsor, near their home at Frogmore Cottage. Within minutes of the photos being shared, royal supporters from around the world shared their delight on Twitter and Instagram, with many admitting they were moved to tears by the first sight of the newborn. Unlike the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Harry and Meghan decided to eschew the royal tradition of posing for photos with the baby in the hours after the birth in favour of keeping the moment private for family. However the couple did make plans to introduce their son today and appeared in front of a handful of members of the press. Victoria Beckham shared her congratulations on Instagram along with a picture, commenting 'Congratulations to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex #PrinceHarry and #MeghanMarkle on their baby boy! So happy for you both. x VB' Perez Hilton and Roland Mouret both commented underneath the Sussex Royal Instagram snap of the new family Prince Harry, 34 and Meghan Markle, 37, released pictures of their newborn son Archie today. In the picture, taken at St Georges Hall in Windsorm, Archie is peacefully asleep Boxer Frank Bruno was one of the first celebs to congratulated the couple once the pictures dropped Royal fans were very excited to catch the first glimpse of baby Archie and congratulated his parents Royal photographer Domic Lipinski said he was pleased - and stressed - to have taken the first ever pictures of Baby Sussex Harry and Meghan have been enjoying the experience of being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle residence. Family members spoke about the joy of the new arrival with the Duke of Cambridge saying on Tuesday he was 'obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down'. He added: 'I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting.' Harry was at his wife's side during the birth on Monday and he later confessed he had only had a few hours' sleep, suggesting Meghan had spent much of the night in labour. Royal fans were delighted with the news and thought Baby Sussex was 'gorgeous' and looked just like his mother Kate revealed they had no clues about the baby's name but were eager to see the Sussexes and their new arrival. She said: 'As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. 'These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best.' Some Twitter users were not impressed with the commotion around the Baby Sussex pictures Harry and Meghan have been enjoying the experience of being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle residence. Pictured, the couple in March Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor arrived at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz. The Prince of Wales has also spoken publicly for the first time about the birth, saying he was 'delighted' at arrival of his latest grandchild. During an official visit to Germany with the Duchess of Cornwall, Charles said on Tuesday: 'We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return.' Harry's grandmother the Queen accepted the congratulations of a Windsor Castle guest who asked: 'Life is good for Your Majesty?' The Queen, who was joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, was hosting a lunch on Tuesday for members of the Order of Merit and smiling said in reply 'yes, thank you'. Harry and Meghan eschewed the traditional approach taken by the Cambridges that saw them pose on the steps of the hospital hours after their children's births. Pictured, with Louis The Queen didn't let the wet weather dampen her spirits as she arrived for day one of the Royal Windsor Horse Show on Wednesday. Her Majesty, 93, attended the annual event two days after becoming a Great Grandmother again to Prince Harry, 34, and Meghan's new baby boy, who was born weighing 7lb 30z on Monday. The annual show, which is just a short distance from Windsor Castle and runs until 12th May, is one of the Monarch's favourite equestrian events of the year. Donning a waterproof khaki jacket with her hood pulled up, the royal wrapped up warm and brightened up an otherwise rainy day with her smile - while her husband Prince Philip, 97, was nowhere to be seen. Queen Elizabeth II was all smiles as she attended day one of The Royal Windsor Horse Show in Home Park, Windsor Castle on Wednesday As the rain continued to pour down, Her Majesty could be seen pulling a face before laughing at the wet weather conditions Protecting herself from the rain, the monarch wrapped up warm in a waterproof khaki jacket with her hood worn up, while her blue silk scarf poked out from underneath Her Majesty looked delighted as she pet the horse at today's event - which is the UK's largest outdoor horse show with international competitions in three different equestrian disciplines The Queen was behind the wheel as she arrived at the first day of the Royal Windsor Horse Show Despite creating a very animated display with a series of hand gestures, Elizabeth II came prepared for the muddy conditions in her black wellies and long jacket. The royal was later pictured holding onto the hood of her coat, as her blue silk scar poked out from underneath. Last year, the event fell exactly a week before the royal residence hosted the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The royals didn't have any luck with the weather then either, as the Queen opted for a headscarf, quilted coat and tartan skirt to conquer the elements. As the rain stopped later in the day, the Queen removed the hood of her coat to reveal her blue silk scarf which featured intricate detail While her husband Prince Philip, 97, didn't appear to be in attendance, the Queen was all smiles and still appeared to be enjoying herself The five-day event, held in Berkshire, is now in its 76th year and attracts well-heeled visitors from all over the world. Pictured, the Monarch in what is believed to be one of her favourite annual equestrian events The Queen could be seen keeping her hands warm by placing them in her pockets. She is believed to have attended every single year since it began as a wartime fundraising event back in 1943 The royal added a splash of colour to proceedings by opting for a layer of pink lipstick as she attended today's event Sporting a smile, the Queen appeared to be in high spirits despite the wet weather conditions at this year's equestrian event Admiring the horses from the stand, the Monarch appeared to be deep in thought as the event got underway Her Majesty kept out the chilly breeze and rain with her choice of clothing and footwear. In recent years, she has watched many of her own horses take part in the showing class competitions The Queen was full of laughter as she sheltered from the heavy downpour of rain in one of the stands earlier today The Queen ensured to tighten up her head scarf to keep the chill from reaching her neck in the wet weather conditions today The five-day event, held in Berkshire, is now in its 76th year and attracts well-heeled visitors from all over the world. It sees competitors taking part in a range of events from show jumping to dressage, along with displays from The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery and DAKS Pony Club - and is the only occasion on which members of the public are able to enjoy the palace grounds. The Queen is believed to have attended every single year since it began as a wartime fundraising event back in 1943. The event is intrinsically linked with the royal family; both the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh competed at it during their younger years, with Prince Philip entering the Carriage Driving at Royal Windsor Horse Show for 30 years, winning it just once in 1982. In more recent years, the Queen has watched many of her own horses take part in the showing class competitions. Queen Elizabeth II looked deep in thought before the equestrian event got underway earlier today The Monarch appeared more than happy to engage in conversation as she shared a joke ahead of today's proceedings The royal was shielded from the rain with an umbrella and her calf-length waterproof khaki jacket, and she kept her hands warm by keeping them in her pockets Throughout the morning, the Monarch appeared to make a series of animated hand gestures as the rain continued to pour down The event is thought to be one of the Queen's favourite equestrian events of the year, so it's no wonder she brightened up an otherwise wet day with her smile Elizabeth II came prepared for the muddy conditions and was dressed in her black wellies and a long waterproof jacket - complete with hood Elizabeth II was pictured holding onto the hood of her coat, while her polka dot blue silk scar poked out from underneath (above) The Duchess of Sussex has been hailed an absolute icon for showing off her post-pregnancy belly with a belted dress that accentuated her waist, as she and Harry introduced their baby to the world. Radiant Meghan, 37, donned a crisp white belted blazer dress by British designer Grace Wales Bonner - as she joined proud husband Harry, 34, for a photo call in St George's Hall in Windsor, where state banquets are held when at Windsor. The new mother, who won praise for her stylish maternity wardrobe, was praised by royal fans who called her 'brave' for wearing white so soon after the birth of the baby. But others were more impressed by the fact that not only did she not hide her post-pregnancy tummy, she seemed to be deliberately highlighting it in her belted dress. Meanwhile Prince Harry looked dapper in a light grey suit, which has become something of a wardrobe staple in the months since he has met Meghan, leading some to believe she has put her stamp on her husband's style. Speaking to Femail, celebrity stylist Lucas Armitage noted the tie at the waist accentuating Meghan's post-natal bump, and said the new mother was proudly showing off her post-birth figure. Meghan showed off her post natal figure with the white tuxedo midi dress. Celebrity stylist Lucas pointed to the gold buttons and tie waist that highlighted her post natal bump Meghan chose a crisp white sleeveless trench dress for the occasion, with double breasted tortoise shell buttons. She kept the outfit simple with a nude court heel Royal fans praised Meghan for proudly displaying her visible bump, with many taking to Twitter to applaud the Duchess He said he expected it would be a 'comfort' to other new mothers as the royal was 'showing off' her post natal bump. Today marks the first time the Sussexes have been seen together since the arrival of the baby in early Monday morning. Meghan wore a stunning white blazer-style dress which dropped just below the knee. The piece was tuxedo in style, with tortoiseshell buttons down the front of the outfit and a tie waist, which Lucas said accentuated Meghan's post baby bump. She kept the look simple by pairing it with her pair of nude Manolo Blahnik BB pumps and kept her accessories to a minimum, wearing a simple Jennifer Meyer turquoise necklace. Meghan first wore the necklace on Christmas Day at Sandringham as she joined her fellow royals for the Christmas church service. Prince Harry held their son for the photographs, which were taken in St George's Hall in Windsor. The royal baby is of yet unnamed. Meghan kept her accessories simple with just a delicate Jennifer Meyer turquoise necklace Meghan kept her outfit simple and chic, in the white midi blazer style dress, with nude Manolo Blahnik heels and Jennifer Meyer turquoise necklace Royal fans were stunned by the royal's colour fashion, with one writing 'how brave is Meghan wearing white a few days after giving birth' Turquoise is seen as the love charm and is also a symbol of good fortune and success - perhaps a hint at her love and hopes for happiness for her son. Lucas revealed: 'We usually see new mums in shift shape dress but here Meghan is confidently showing off her post natal bump in a belted blazer dress, further adding attention to the area with double breasted gold buttons.' The stylist continued: 'I love how she is proudly showing the reality shortly after giving birth you still have a hump and is not trying to hide this with clever styling tricks. He went on: 'I'm sure it will be a comfort to all new mums out there.' Siobhan Freegard OBE, parenting expert and founder of Channel Mum, added: 'Meghan has done something no other celebrity has done before by actually emphasising the wonderful curves of her post-partum figure. 'Unlike so many A-listers who battle their post-baby body, pushing down curves in tight control wear, Meghan's tightly-tied belt with large bow draws the eye and enhances her womanly figure. 'Her sister-in-law Kate was widely praised for not hiding her "mum tum" on the steps of the Lindo Wing after giving birth to Prince George, but Meghan is almost taking it one step further with a positive celebration. Meghan enhances her glow with bronzer, smoky eyes and her hair in loose waves The Duchess of Sussex kept her hair and make-up look low-key as she made her first public appearance as a new mother today. Beaming Meghan, 37, enhanced her natural glow with her normal bronzed look and dark eye make up as she introduced her two-day-old son to the world at St George's Hall in Windsor as she joined husband Prince Harry. The proud new mother opted for a fuss-free hairstyle for the outing with husband Harry, wearing her sleek locks down with a slight wave and falling off her shoulders. Celebrity stylist James Johnson believes that the new mother has kept her hair maintenance to a minimum: 'It's nothing too pristine, she wanted to go for the effortless look, with undone vibes.' Johnson also said her hair choice, keeping it down could have been on purpose: 'She may have kept her hair down to hide behind it. The effects of pregnancy might have left her feeling unconfident.' While make up artist Karin Darnell reveals that Meghan appears to be wearing her signature eye make up style: 'The soft brown smokey eye is in keeping with Meghans signature style and it looks as though eyeliner has also been applied across the lid to give her eyes definition and to add some glamour to the look.' Darnell confessed that the Duchess can't be too tired as she isn't wearing too much under eye concealer as you can see her natural skin colour shining through. But she has used bronzer to bring out her best features. 'Meghan has maintained her usual blush look with a sheer peach shade that gives her that gorgeous signature glow and adds a pop of colour to her bronzed complexion too. Meghan is showing us that she is ready to stay true to her glamorous look as a new mum.' Another signature style that she's kept to is her lip colour, with Darnell adding: 'The nude, dusky like pink hue is a shade she often sports and is perfect against her skin tone. A subtle gloss in a similar shade has also been applied over the lipstick, which compliments the look perfectly.' Advertisement 'As Prince Harry rightly said, what women do to give birth is "beyond comprehension" and let's hope Meghan encourages more mums to celebrate their bodies for what they can do, not just what they look like.' And Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts said: 'Mumsnet users are delighted to see Meghan and Harry looking so joyful. Having your picture taken by the world's press so soon after birth is something most new mothers can thankfully avoid, but when it comes to her 'realistic post-partum body' the Mumsnet consensus is "good for her".' Royal fans were stunned by the bold fashion choice, as they praised the new-mother for braving white so soon after giving birth. One excited fan wrote: 'Meghan wore white two days after giving birth!? OMG what a legend on earth! The other one could never.' Meanwhile another commented: 'Meghan in a white dress, she must have some military level maternity pads.' Royal fans were quick to praise Meghan for the 'brave' look, with one calling her 'a legend on earth' for the colour choice Another wrote: 'Meghan wearing white two days after giving birth (and huge heels). I think I was in leggings and a sick covered top for the first few months. Congrats.' Meghan chose a similar look, a crisp white coat with a tie at the waist, for the moment she and Harry announced their engagement. Unlike the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Harry and Meghan decided to eschew the royal tradition of posing for photos with the baby in the hours after the birth in favour of keeping the moment private for family. However the couple did make plans to introduce their son today and appeared in front of a handful of members of the press. Who is Grace Wales Bonner? The young British designer behind Meghan's post-natal belted dress Grace Wales Bonner grew up in south London and has been making 'seismic waves' in the fashion industry It's the first time Meghan has worn a Wales Bonner piece - but the brand is a perfect fit for the fashion-conscious Duchess. A Londoner with Jamaican and English heritage, 28-year-old Grace has made 'seismic waves in the fashion industry' since graduating with a BA from Central Saint Martins in 2014, according to British Vogue. Items of her fashion line are stocked at the likes of Selfridges and Dover Street Market, while her garments have even been displayed at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Speaking about her brand, the ambitious designer explained how it was 'conceptualised as a means to elevate the location of blackness within the fashion landscape, and to disrupt traditional European notions of luxury with a hybridity and multiplicity of perspectives'. She said: 'It is my ambition to build a brand that comes from a black cultural perspective and has the same authority, presence and impact as any esteemed European house. In the long term, I want Wales Bonner to exist on that same level.' Wales Bonner grew up living with her mother in Dulwich, and visited her father - the youngest in a family who travelled to the UK from Jamaica in the Windrush Generation - in Stockwell while going to school in Tooting, south London. The designer said that while everyone was 'like her' at junior school, she was singled out as being black by her peers at secondary school. Her mixed race background will strike a cord with Meghan, who describes herself as 'half black and half white'. After leaving CSM, Wales Bonner won the L'Oreal Professionnel Talent award and then picked up the emerging menswear designer gong at the 2015 British fashion awards. She went on to win the prestigious LVMH young designer prize in 2016, and in the British Land London emerging design medal in 2018. Earlier this month she was announced as the winner of the coveted 2019 BFC/Vogue Fashion Fund a 200,000 prize which is dedicated to supporting young talent. Interestingly, Wales Bonner never intended to design clothes for women - which is perhaps why her tailoring 'gently pushes against gender conventions', as observed by British Vogue. 'My work is about male representation and there is a fluidity, boundaries are opening up,' she told the Guardian. 'I think people are communicating sensuality and femininity on more of a spectrum. That's much more in the cultural consciousness and it allows things to be understood in a different way.' Advertisement Meghan donned a similar white tailored coat for her engagement photographs in November 2017 Celebrity stylist Lucas Armitage said that Meghan was 'confidently showing off her post natal bump' in the white tailored dress Harry and Meghan have been enjoying the experience of being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle residence. Family members spoke about the joy of the new arrival with the Duke of Cambridge saying on Tuesday he was 'obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down'. He added: 'I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting.' Harry was at his wife's side during the birth on Monday and he later confessed he had only had a few hours' sleep, suggesting Meghan had spent much of the night in labour. Lucas also revealed that he thought the outfit choice 'would be a comfort to all new mums' as it showed off the reality of a post natal figure Meghan won widespread praise over her maternity wardrobe, including this Victoria Beckham dress she sported for the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in March The Duchess also carried out two royal tours while pregnant, dazzling at evening receptions. Pictured, in a custom Dior cape gown while in Morocco with Prince Harry in February Kate revealed they had no clues about the baby's name but were eager to see the Sussexes and their new arrival. She said: 'As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. 'These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best.' Baby Sussex arrived at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz. High-street discount retailer TK Maxx has come under fire for selling a designer purse that's emblazoned with the words: 'I am thin and gorgeous.' Shoppers have slammed the cut-price chain for selling the purse, which normally retails at 1,890 but is being sold for 699, saying it could trigger 'eating disorders'. One furious customer, who spotted the 'body-shaming' bag online wrote: 'I am thin and gorgeous?' Wow, way to make everyone feel good.' Scroll down for video Shoppers have criticised cut-price TK Maxx for selling this D&G purse, which first appeared in the designer brand's 2017 fall collection, because it carries the words 'I'm thin and gorgeous' Another, Lauren Callaghan said the purse should be banned: 'Talk about a possible trigger. In this day and age, things like this should not be on shelves.' Kayleigh Slater agreed, writing: 'There's one place for that...THE BIN. Who in the actual eff passed that design?' Charlene 'Charly' Keig also raged: 'I don't understand why it can't just say "I am gorgeous". All women can be gorgeous regardless of whether they are fat, thin, tall, small, have freckles, have no freckles, blonde, brunette, ginger etc. She added: 'Why do we all have to fit in a bracket? We all need to praise each other more and appreciate that we are all different and that's what makes us beautiful.' And Patricia Longworth penned: 'I don't even understand how in this day and age stuff like this is allowed. Do they have any idea how damaging things like this are?' Some fans were quick to point out that the bag was merely quoting a line spoken by Jennifer Saunders' character Eddie in the cult-classic Absolutely Fabulous. One furious shopper who spotted the item for sale - reduced to 699.99 from its original price of 1890 - claimed that the 'body-shaming' message could trigger eating disorders The online TK Maxx ad for the purse; it's believed the slogan was first uttered in an episode of Absolutely Fabulous - and the couture fashion brand borrowed it Nevertheless, they agreed the quote was still inappropriate to be plastered across a bag, which was part of the designer's fall 2017 collection. Beth Harwood said: 'I think that the Thin and Gorgeous thing is a line from Ab Fab but who would know that out of context? It's not Lacroix, sweetie... Or the 90s.' Others claimed the bag was just another nail in the coffin for the notoriously controversial fashion house. Louisa Harker said: 'Fattist, no longer relevant pair of muppets.' The purse also includes more positive Italian phrases on the back including 'Ti amo tantissimo' which means 'I love you very much' And Beth Rachel mocked: 'Looool D&G really hit the bottom.' It comes after Dolce and Gabbana outfits were conspicuously missing from this year's Met Gala red carpet following a series of controversies that led celebrities to boycott the brand. Back in November, the fashion house was accused of 'racism' after releasing an advert that saw a Chinese model struggle to eat Italian food with chopsticks. The notorious ad sparked a boycott of the brand across China. MailOnline has contacted TK Maxx for comment. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex nodded to tradition by wrapping their baby boy in a shawl from a royal-approved company for his first public appearance today. Proud parents Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, swaddled their son Archie in a 105 merino wool shawl and 65 hat by G.H. Hurt & Son for the photocall in St George's Hall, Windsor Castle, this afternoon. The move marks a continuation of some 70 years of royal tradition, with new parents including the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles and Princess Diana, and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge all choosing to swaddle their children in shawls from the company on their public debuts. It is a small acknowledgement of the past in what has otherwise been a 'big reveal' that breaks from royal precedent. Proud parents Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, swaddled their son Archie in the 105 merino wool shawl by G.H. Hurt & Son for the photocall in St George's Hall, Windsor Castle, this afternoon The move marks a continuation of some 70 years of royal tradition, with new parents including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge choosing shawls by the brand for their children's public debuts. Pictured, William and Kate with Charlotte wrapped in a G.H. Hurt & Son shawl in 2015 Prince Charles and Princess Diana swaddled Prince William in a shawl when they left the Lindo Wing in 1982, pictured The shawl chosen by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex is the Leaves and Flowers Baby Shawl in ivory, although it also comes in pink and blue. Pictured, the shawl on the website Speaking to Fabulous Digital, Richard Taylor, director of G.H. Hurt & Son, said: 'All the staff here at G. H Hurt & Son were delighted to see the Royal couple emerge at Windsor Castle today, to present their newborn son, wrapped in our traditional hand finished shawl. He continued: 'We feel so proud and honoured that Harry and Meghan have chosen our beautiful merino wool lacy knitted baby shawls and in doing so have continued a royal tradition now going back over 70 years.' The shawl is the Leaves and Flowers Baby Shawl in ivory, although it also comes in pink and blue. The Queen first used the company when she introduced son Prince Charles to the world in 1948. In the decades since, royals including Prince Harry, Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis have been draped in the designs as newborns. Children's clothing designer Joanna Welch, of the brand Small Stories, explained that the couple had kept to royal protocol by dressing the baby in traditional cream. Children's clothing designer Joanna Welch, of the brand Small Stories, suggested the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had taken fashion tips from other royals The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire She said: 'The baby is wrapped in what looks like a super fine merino wool cream blanket very similar to the one Princess Kate wrapped all three of her royal children in.' The clothing expert went on to suggest the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had taken fashion tips from other Royals. 'Meghan and Harry have definitely taken fashion tips from Prince William and Princess Kate,' she said. 'They also dressed all three of their children in the same way for their first royal appearance.' The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept The loved-up couple waved to the camera before walking off as they prepared to introduce the infant to his great-grandmother, the Queen Speaking for only a few minutes from inside the majestic St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, a radiant Meghan, who struggled to take her eyes off her beaming husband, said she had the 'two best guys in the world' The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pictured with their son Archie in the majestic setting of St George's Hall at Windsor Castle today Speaking of the cosy cap the baby is wearing, she continued: 'Meghan and Harry might also have opted for the super cosy knitted beanie to keep him slightly hidden from all those prying eyes and flashing cameras.' 'Meghan has kept the Princes for first royal engagement outfit gender neutral which is super on trend right now.' Archie's cousins, Prince George, five, Princess Charlotte, three, and Prince Louis, one, regularly prompt a shopping frenzy when they are seen in a new outfit, and it is thought Baby Sussex might have the same effect on clothing sales. New parents Meghan, 37, and Harry, 34, were the picture of pride as they appeared with their newborn son, who arrived early Monday morning. It is the first time the Sussexes have been seen together as a family since the baby's arrival after the Duke and Duchess took the decision to keep the birth private, rather than follow the lead of William and Kate and pose for photos in the hours afterwards. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge swaddled newborn Louis in a white blanket and cap when they appeared on the steps of the Lindo Wing hours after his birth in April last year Adorable baby Charlotte was given the same introduction to the world in May 2015, pictured Prince George was wrapped in a blanket but did not have a cap when he was first seen in 2013 Harry and Meghan have been enjoying the experience of being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle residence. Family members spoke about the joy of the new arrival with the Duke of Cambridge saying on Tuesday he was 'obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down'. Harry was at his wife's side during the birth on Monday and he later confessed he had only had a few hours' sleep, suggesting Meghan had spent much of the night in labour. Baby Sussex arrived at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz. Queen Maxima looked radiant in yellow as she visited Make-A-Wish in Hilversum, The Netherlands on Wednesday. The mother-of-three, 47, brought the sun with her as she opted for a bold two-piece suit, which she wore over a black round-neck top. Renowned for her sartorial prowess, the Dutch royal paired the outfit with black accessories as she was greeted at the entrance of the building. The engagement was to mark their 30th anniversary of the charity - which fulfills wishes for ill children aged between 3 and 18. Queen Maxima, 47, looked radiant in yellow as she visited Make-A-Wish in Hilversum, The Netherlands on Wednesday The Dutch royal wore a black round-neck top underneath and opted for black accessories to complete the look, including a clutch, court shoes and a folder which she held in her left hand Wearing her hair loose, the royal tucked the front tresses behind her ears to prevent them from blowing in the breeze. She was on her usual stylish form pairing her suit with black heeled court shoes, a clutch and what appeared to be a folder in her right hand. The statement on the children's charity website reads: 'Fulfilling a dearest wish each child a special effect, but for children with life-threatening illness in particular.' 'It gives these children, who often because of their illness are especially patient, the power to be children. Achieving a dream for their future can mean a world of difference.' The stylish royal's hair could be seen blowing in the wind before she made her way inside to the reception Queen Maixma of the Netherlands was all smiles as she shook hands with the founders of the children's charity and thanked them for the work they do And it's not the first time Maxima has opted for a striking number to bring a splash of color to proceedings. She paired a bright pink A-line dress by designer Oscar de la Renta with a black fascinator for an engagement in Utrecht on April 18. The former financier was attending the jubilee congress of Nibud with the theme Money and Behaviour She stood out in the vibrant fuchsia flared midi dress, which she similarly teamed with black accessories - and the same earrings she wore today. The engagement was to mark their 30th anniversary of the charity - which fulfills wishes for ill children aged between 3 and 18. Pictured, Queen Maxima posed alongside members of staff The Duchess of Cambridge proved she's not afraid to get her hands dirty today as she donned an anorak and sturdy boots to go litter picking with William on a beach in North Wales. Kate - who yesterday revealed she 'can't wait' to meet her new nephew - also managed to get a baby fix while visiting the Caernarfon Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter Base. Greeting the adorable youngster, a child of one of the search and rescue team, Kate grinned widely and proceeded to pat the cute baby on the head before gently stroking the little girl's legs. While Prince Harry and Meghan were introducing the world to their adorable new son Archie at St George's Hall in Windsor, Kate and William returned to familiar territory today, meeting former colleagues. Earlier in the day Kate, looking striking in a 762 red woollen blazer by Lorenzo Serafini and skinny black jeans, joined the 36-year-old father-of-three, who looked delighted to be touring the helicopter base - even if the weather didn't quite play ball. Yesterday, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge told the world they were thrilled with the new arrival in the royal family, with William cheekily joking that he was looking forward to welcoming his brother to the 'sleep deprivation club'. Scroll down for video What a day! Kate stretches out a hand as she arrives with Prince William in rural North Wales this morning - while the rest of the world waited for a first glimpse of new royal arrival baby Archie. Braving the rain, the Duchess, 36, looked stylish in a striking red blazer with military gold buttons by Lorenzo Serafini, as the couple landed at the Caernarfon Coastguard and Rescue Helicopter Base Kate gets her baby fix! With the Duchess desperate to meet her new nephew, this little tot was greeted with a glowing smile from the mother-of-three as she enjoyed a tour - including a go in a chopper - at the Caernarfon coastguard search and rescue helicopter base Auntie mode! Kate can't resist pulling the legs of the little girl she met during her visit with Prince William to the rural air base in Caernarfon this morning A right royal pat on the head: the youngster, in a turquoise cardigan gets a stroke from the Duchess of Cambridge as she kneels to meet the youngster A change of jacket and boots for Kate; following their visit to the salt company, the next stop for Kate and William was beautiful natural retreat Newborough Beach As several Scouts held out blue bags ready to fill up with waste, Kate, who was wearing a classic pair of brown boots, looked more than happy to get her hands dirty as she visited Newborough beach As Prince William held out a red bin bag ready to fill with waste, Kate used a picker to scoop together a mound of waste which had washed up on the shores of Newborough beach Crouching down to her knees, the Duchess of Cambridge managed to keep her balance as she helped out with the beach clean-up in Newborough The couple looked relaxed as they enjoyed a stroll on the wildlife beach , with William swapping his brogues for more relaxed blue Nike trainers The Duchess of Cambridge helped school children to clean Newborough beach in Wales this afternoon The Duchess of Cambridge reached for some waste that had washed up on Newborough Beach in North Wales, before Prince William shortly joined in The couple spent their time on Newborough Beach learning about the importance of the nesting bird colonies on neighbouring Llanddwyn Island Wearing a Barbour bodywarmer, Kate double-proofed against the cold with an extra layer via a 350 Troy wax parka coat Kate's designer blazer was nowhere to be seen, replaced with a more practical lined jacket. During her time living on Anglesey, the Duchess volunteered with the Scouts This afternoon, the couple arrived at Halen Mon Anglesey Sea Salt, a thriving local business that which won the Queens Award for Sustainability in 2017 It's good salt! Prince William appears impressed with the company's condiment after having a go at processing some it in the traditional way Arriving at the Anglesey company, Kate received a pose of flowers from a well-wisher outside the salt company Kate bent her knees slightly to chat to the youngster, who had donned a pretty blue dress for her royal encounter Showing off a delicate pair of drop earrings in Amber, Kate chatted to those who'd gathered to welcome the couple back to the island on which they'd spent the first years of their married life Kate, 37, who told reporters in London yesterday that she's desperate to meet her brand new nephew, teamed her smart red blazer - a favourite that she's worn before - with a pair of skinny black jeans and knee-length black suede boots. The Duchess, wearing her brunette locks pulled back in a flowing ponytail, which accentuated her simple amber drop earrings. She finished the look with a smart crocodile-skin black handbag from upmarket leather goods store Aspinal of London, which sells for a cool 495. Meanwhile, Prince William donned a dark blue suit, with a racing green sweater and smart suede brogues for the trip to his former home. The royal, who worked for three years at RAF Valley on Anglesey from 2010 to 2013, made the trip north - on a soggy day - to re-acquaint himself with the invaluable work being done by the search and rescue helicopter team and Wales Air Ambulance in the region. The unit William worked on has now moved from the island to the new base, Caernarfon, on the mainland and is run by Bristow Helicopters, which took over the contract from the military, but still has some of the same crew from William's time as a helicopter pilot. The Duke and Duchess look on as an employee shovels the salt; the company were shown every step of the company's method from hand harvesting to packaging Shovel it in! A salt master gets to work moving the crystals around. Right, the Welsh company has been in business for more than two decades Where's your protective headwear? Kate and William, who spent three years living on Anglesey as newlyweds following their wedding in 2010, share a joke with a Halen Mon employee Earlier, a confident Kate, wearing her hair pulled back into a ponytail, led the way as the couple touched down to meet members of the Coastguard helicopter team...just as Meghan and Harry were preparing to show off their bundle of joy at St George's Hall in Windsor Look of love: The royals momentarily shared a glance as they toured air ambulances and search and rescue aircraft The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were shown a collection of waste that was found washed up on the shores of Newborough Beach during their visit today With her hair scraped back and wearing some chic earrings, Kate was all smiles as she continued her day of busy engagements. Pictured at Newborough Beach The royals met with various individuals in the region to learn more about their efforts to take care of their communities and protect the natural environment. Pictured, listening to the school children who help to clear up the waste Holding a litter picker in her right hand, Kate opted to use her bare hands as she helped to fill the bags with waste Keeping warm in a blue wax jacket and black trousers, the Duchess set to work helping on the clean-up at Newborough Beach William told his old crew that he does miss his old job, which involved flying rescue missions in all kinds of weather and terrain. Coastguard helicopter winchman Paul Jones and his wife Gemma, were with their son's, Finlay, 12, and Alex, aged nine, who were much younger the last time Kate and William saw them. Mr Jones said: 'It's lovely to see him, we worked very closely for three years and then he moved away. It was like he's never been away.' The royal couple also clambered aboard the Coastguard's new 30 million Sikorsky S92 helicopter, which replaced Sea King helicopters used during William's time with the unit. Both royal visitors sat in the cockpit as they were told about the aircraft's capabilities and performance during the around 300 or so rescue missions undertaken each year from Caernarfon. Rich Taylor, a winchman who served with William and met him again today said: "It was great. It was a real honour and privilege. He's a very nice guy, very engaging, very professional. "He worked very hard obviously to keep a balance in the world's he's within. He was outstanding in his role as a pilot." Donning a navy blue waterproof jacket, Kate looked animated with her hand gestures before getting involved in the beach clean up Kate bent down to give a helping hand on a visit to Newborough Beach where she met the Menai Bridge Scouts and explored the beach wildlife habitat Sporting a pair of casual blue and yellow trainers, Prince William opted to use his hands rather than a litter picker to scoop together the waste earlier today The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge met the school chidren and explored the beach's wildlife habitat. Pictured, Kate bends down as she engages in conversation with a youngster The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited North Wales to meet with individuals and organisations in the region to learn more about their efforts to take care of their communities and protect the natural environment. Pictured, at Newborough Beach on Anglesey Prince William looked animated as he used hand gestures while speaking to a host of children during a beach cleanup on a visit to Newborough beach. Pictured right: Kate was all smiles as she learned about the beach's wildlife and habitat from several of the Scouts The royal was in great company as she was joined by several primary school pupils for the beach clean-up this afternoon Prince William and Kate looked only too happy to engage in conversation with Menai Bridge Scouts to learn about the history of the beach Here he is! While proud aunt and uncle Kate and William were in Wales, Prince Harry and Meghan introduced their new son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor - born at 5:26am on Monday - to the world Kate smiled through the dreary weather as she met search and rescue workers at the Caernarfon Coastguard Search and Rescue Helicopter Base in North Wales. Right: The Duchess strides forth, taking care to dodge the puddles in her heeled boots Kate carried a Midi Mayfair Bag by upmarket leather goods company Aspinal of London - the crocodile skin black bag with gold buckle retails at 495.00 Mind your head: While the newest member of the royal family was making his debut in Windsor, William, 36, and Kate, 37, enjoyed a rather low-key public engagement at the base in rural North Wales (the couple pictured taking care to dodge an airplane wing) Prince William, wearing a dark blue suit, looked delighted to be back among friends as he arrived at the base; yesterday the prince joked he was looking forward to welcoming Prince Harry and Meghan to the 'sleep deprivation club' Nice to be back: William, who served at RAF Valley in Anglesey for three years between 2010 and 2013, looked happy to be back in search and rescue company as he chatted to those charged with keeping an eye on the seas Japes: Prince William shares a joke with a young toddler as he meets the wives and children of his former North Wales air and rescue colleagues on the whistlestop trip north to Wales Just call me Uncle William! The Prince, 36, laughs as he chats to some older children during the royals tour of the rescue base Meanwhile in Windsor... Baby Archie makes his first hello The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have proudly showed off their baby son Archie to the world for the first time today as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe. The world has been given its first ever glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son today as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept Three-day-old Archie made his very first public appearance at a photocall alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the new family have been holed up since the historic birth on Monday. The baby boy was lovingly cradled by his adoring father and watched attentively by Meghan, who was herself pictured for the first time in six weeks since withdrawing from public life ahead of the birth. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pictured with their baby son in the majestic setting of St George's Hall at Windsor Castle today The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept. Speaking for only a few minutes from inside the majestic St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, a radiant Meghan declared: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days. 'I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm. Advertisement William and Kate also joined a discussion with Coastguard crew members and staff from Wales Air Ambulance, about the mental health challenges that result from working as emergency personnel. Mr Taylor added: 'He's been involved first hand with some awful situations as anyone who works in this search and rescue or air ambulance will have been, so he knows first hand the effects it can have on people. 'When we worked with William it was a real honour and a privilege and that continues that he's taken the time out to come and see us and have a look around and catch up again. 'I think like anybody involved in aviation, especially emergency services and support and helping others, it's a passion, it's a vocation, so I can understand he does miss it.' William and Kate spent around 90 minutes at the base before shaking hands and saying goodbyes as they travelled to their next stop on the royal visit at Halen Mon Anglesey Sea Salt, a local business on Anglesey. Kate wore her brunette locks neatly tied back in a ponytail, accentuating her simple amber drop earrings For the second day in a row, the couple were performing public engagements, yesterday launching the inaugural King's Cup charity regatta in London Tea break: Williams recounts his experiences working at RAF Valley in Anglesey as he and Kate sit in some comfy-looking leather sofas to chat to crew members Let's fly! Kate leads the way as she and William stride up the steps to enjoy a tour of a shiny red coastguard helicopter used by Wales Air Ambulance The couple have expressed their delight at becoming aunt and uncle to Meghan and Harry's baby, saying they were 'thrilled' at the news of Baby Sussex's arrival In control: Kate grins as she looks around the cockpit of the aircraft Getting a glimpse into her husband's former job, Kate is pictured in the pilot's seat of the aircraft Kate smiles as she chats through with search and rescue workers inside one of the choppers And then she's joined by her co-pilot, a clearly knowledgeable Prince William, as a real-life member of the team looks on The couple headed to their former home, where they lived as newlyweds in a Welsh farmhouse until William left the RAF. At the salt making company, Kate and William had a go at making the condiment in the traditional way, getting a masterclass in the process. Their brief tour continued with a stroll on Newborough Beach, where the couple explored the beach's wildlife habitat. The coastal spot meant a change of outfit for Kate, with the royal swapping out her red blazer for a more practical 350 TROY London navy parka with a Barbour bodywarmer underneath. She also pulled on a favourite pair of flat-heeled leather knee-high boots by Penelope Chilvers. William was seen wearing a pair of blue Nike trainers after leaving the smarter brogues he'd had on earlier behind and ditching his jacket in favour of a warmer-looking coat. Earlier in the day, the Duchess of Cambridge looked on sparkling form as she strode forward to greet members of the coastguard search and rescue helicopter team - or perhaps she was just trying to escape the Welsh drizzle. Back in Windsor, just as the couple began chatting to the search and rescue members, Prince Harry and Meghan introduced their son - who still has no official name - to the world's media. Mind your bonce: William looks worried as he dodges the low ceiling while disembarking The couple, parents to George, Charlotte and Louis, disembark the life-saving chopper Stepping out: the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also spent time learning about the valuable work of Wales Air Ambulance during their visit Duck! Kate and William pictured on Wednesday exiting a more roomy coastguard aircraft After moving under cover to escape the rain, the couple listened intently as a helicopter pilot talked about the role he has at the base A beaming Kate smiled at employees of the North Wales base as the couple arrived this morning The Duchess of Cambridge teamed her red blazer with a pair of skinny black jeans and knee-length black suede boots Hello! Prince William and Kate meet a line-up of search and rescue men next to a coastguard helicopter While Kate and William chatted in Wales, Prince Harry and Meghan introduced their new son to the world's media, showing him off at St George's Hall in Windsor Yesterday, as the couple launched the inaugural King's Cup Regatta at the Cutty Sark, in south-east London, proud uncle William told well-wishers he is 'looking forward' to meeting his nephew 'in the next few days' once 'things have quietened down'. He added jokingly: 'I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting.' Kate, who looked chic in a nautical-inspired outfit for the outing, shared her husband's delight, saying: 'It's such a special time, obviously with Louis and Charlotte just having had their birthdays, it's such a great time of year to have a baby. Spring is in the air.' The couple also revealed they do not yet know the baby's name. Baby Sussex arrived at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz. It is expected he will be seen for the first time tomorrow after Harry and Meghan decided to eschew the tradition of a photo call in the hours after the birth. However Prince Harry did make a short media appearance to share his excitement and reveal that Meghan and the baby were doing well. Yesterday in London. the Duke of Cambridge said he was 'absolutely thrilled' about the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son, adding he was 'looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down' The Duchess of Cambridge, elegant in a Breton stripe top and 150 LK Bennett trousers, said it is 'such a special time' for Harry and Meghan as new parents. William and Kate revealed they do not know Baby Sussex's name The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed a baby at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz. The Duke of Sussex later appeared on camera (right) to share his joy and thank well-wishers for their support Uncle William shares his joy on his nephew's arrival The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge shared their delight at Baby Sussex's arrival while speaking to well-wishers during a walkabout in south-east London on Tuesday. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge laughed as they spoke to members of the public during the outing this afternoon William said he was 'obviously thrilled' at the news his brother Harry and sister-in-law Meghan had welcomed a son yesterday morning. Speaking to a crowd at the Cutty Sark, William said he was 'looking forward' to seeing the new arrival in the coming days. He added cheekily: 'I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting.' The Duchess of Cambridge was also visibly thrilled by the news, admitting to one royal supporter that it is 'such a special time' for Harry, Meghan and the family. She also noted that her own children Louis and Charlotte have recently celebrated their first and fourth birthdays, respectively. Kate continued: 'It's such a great time of year to have a baby, spring is in the air. 'As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best,' she said. Speaking from experience as a mother of three, Kate added: 'These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best.' Advertisement William and Kate spoke about Baby Sussex as they arrived to launch the charity King's Cup regatta, which will see the couple go head-to-head in the race off the Isle of Wight in August. Shortly after stepping out of the car, William and Kate were quizzed over their nephew's arrival. Asked if he had any pearls of wisdom for his younger brother, William said: 'Plenty of advice, plenty of advice. But no, I wish him all the best and I hope the next few days they can settle down and enjoy having a newborn in their family and the joys that come with that.' The Duchess of Cambridge, dressed in a Breton top and 150 LK Bennett trousers, added: 'As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best.' Kate smiled as she waved to the crowds that waited patiently for a glimpse of the royal couple at the event in south London The Duchess of Cambridge, who is a mother of three, said it is 'such a special time' for Harry, Meghan and the family The Prince of Wales has also spoken publicly for the first time about the birth, saying he was 'delighted' at arrival of his latest grandchild. During an official visit to Germany with the Duchess of Cornwall, Charles said: 'We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return.' Meanwhile the Queen and Prince Philip stepped out for a second engagement, during which Her Majesty shared her joy at becoming a great-grandmother for the eighth time. The Queen was asked by one guest: 'Life is good for Your Majesty?', to which the Queen replied: 'Yes, thank you.' 'Congratulations. Another great-grandchild!' the guest said to her. The Queen replied happily: 'Yes, I know.' She was then asked 'How many of them have you got now?' before replying 'Eight'. Buckingham Palace said on Monday that the Queen and the Duke were 'delighted' at the news of the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby son. Duchess touching her hair is 'sign of a protective leadership role,' she added Body language expert Judi James said Meghan was standing by her 'two guys' Proud father Prince Harry cradled his two-day-old baby Archie as he introduced him to the world this afternoon, while 'protective' Meghan stood by her men. The Duchess of Sussex, 37, placed her hand on her husband's right arm and continued to play with her hair before giving her husband a rub on the back during the photo call which took place in St Georges Hall. Body language expert Judi James explained that while the Duke of Sussex was the one holding their baby boy, Meghan gave him 'reassuring touches' throughout. Speaking to FEMAIL, she decoded the real meanings behind the subtle signs which were evident on the Sussexes' first family outing - including Meghan's touching of Archie's head, Harry's back, and the couple's eye contact. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son Archie, who was born on Monday morning, during a photo call in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. While the couple cooed over their newborn baby, they also gave each other a 'very besotted looking "look of love," according to the expert HARRY HOLDING THE BABY 'Harry took his duties seriously and the softening of his facial features as he looked at his new baby formed a very besotted looking "look of love," explained Judi. 'His baby cradling looked more adept and confident than other royal first-time dads. 'He had very little tension in his arms and his fingers don't look rigid, although his self-calming technique of stroking his own hand as well as the baby, might have helped.' The decision for the Duke of Sussex is a stark contrast to Prince William and Kate - as she has previously been the one to cradle each of their newborns outside the Lindo Wing. PROTECTIVE LEADER 'This was pretty much a first in senior royal baby body language with Meghan standing by her "two guys" using protective and reassuring touches and signs while Harry cradled the baby throughout. 'She even rewarded Harry with a loving pat and back rub as they walked away from the cameras. 'This "exit" gesture was more exaggerated than Meghan has used before. It's loving, unifying (as in bonding them visually as a team of three), but also rewarding to Harry and steering. 'Meghan combined it with a thumb rub for added definition and it reveals to Harry and the world her maternal protection for her two guys.' Meghan's hand on Harry's back shows the world her maternal protection for her two guys, the expert says TOUCHING THE BABY'S HEAD Throughout the photo call, Meghan could also be seen playing with her hair as well as gently stroking Archie's head. 'Meghan's hair and face-touch rituals suggested some slight anxiety but overall it was her taking the protective leadership role,' explained the expert. 'Meghan allowed Harry to be the hands-on-dad but this touching of the baby's head looked like a continuation of all those touch and rub-based communications she performed constantly with her baby bump. 'It provides continuity for the mother and the baby.' Meghan used 'protective and reassuring touches and signs' while Harry cradled Archie throughout. 'Touching of the baby's head looked like a continuation of all those touch and rub-based communications she performed constantly with her baby bump,' Martin said EYE CONTACT The expert also pointed out that while the parents looked adoringly at their newborn, the love was still evident between them, too. 'Prince Harry and and Meghan still used some intense eye contact with one another,' she said. 'They're keeping their own loving communications alive while they cooed over the baby. 'The intense eye contact exchanged between them created an inclusive effect, rather than both parents just doting on the baby. 'It allowed for non-verbal signalling between them and allowed them to perform loving looks of mutual pride. It suggests very evenly shared parenting going forward.' Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was born early hours on Monday and weighed 7lb 3oz. Body language expert Judi James explained that while the Duke of Sussex was the one holding their two-day-old son, Meghan gave him 'reassuring touches' throughout Proud father Prince Harry cradled Archie as he introduced him to the world this afternoon. Judi added that he 'took his duties seriously' Judi explained that this was 'a first in senior royal baby body language' as it's previously been the mother who has cradled the newborn. Pictured, the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William at St Mary's Hospital with newborn son Prince George on 23 July 2013 Diane von Furstenberg's granddaughter Talita von Furstenberg celebrated her 20th birthday on Tuesday, two weeks after launching her very own fashion line. The young designer, who is also a student at Georgetown University and splits her time between New York and Washington, D.C., celebrated with not one but two cakes for the festive occasion. After a glamorous night out partying with DVF and other celebrities at the Met Gala on Monday, Talita's birthday appears to have been a bit more low-key, with an appearance by her 22-year-old cousin, Princess Olympia if Greece. Many happy returns! Talita von Furstenberg celebrated her 20th birthday on Tuesday Rich kids: The heiress partied with her cousin, Princess Olympia of Greece Yum! She appeared to celebrate several times that night, including with this pretty floral cake Talita shared a few snaps on Instagram from the festivities. She appears to have celebrated twice. In one shot, she's pictured in a private apartment blowing out the candles on a cake shaped like the number 20. She's wearing a pretty light pink dress with long sleeves and smiles as metallic pink balloons spelling out '20 Happy Birthday' float in the background. After that, it seems, she changed to go out with some friends, opting for a black top and a floral jacket. Eating out at a restaurant, she blew out the candles on yet another cake and smiled for snaps with her cousin Olympia. The two heiresses are related through their mothers: Talita's mom is Alexandra von Furstenberg, who is divorced from Talita's father Prince Alexander von Furstenberg. He is the son of Diane von Furstenberg and Prince Egon von Furstenberg. Wishes She also went out with friends and blew out the candles on yet another cake Proud cuz: Olympia shared another image of Talita, who is a student at Georgetown Lucky genes: Talita is the granddaughter of designer Diane von Furstenberg Olympia, meanwhile, is the daughter of Alexandra's sister, Marie-Chantal, Crown Princess of Greece, and husband Pavlos, Crown Prince of Greece. Loved: She also showed off all the flowers she's been sent on Wednesday The two cousins appear to be quite close, regularly vacationing together in Harbour Island in the Bahamas with their families - so it's no surprise that they spent the milestone celebration together.. Talita also had a third outfit for the night, switching into a metallic mini and matching platform heels. 'Turned 20 in this dress,' she wrote on Instagram, captioning a picture of herself posing in a luxe-looking bathroom. Talita certainly had plenty to be proud of upon this milestone birthday, having just launched her first fashion collection under her grandmother's label. The 23-piece collection, called TVF for DVF, debuted on April 24 and features dresses, tops, and skirts all priced under $300. 'Even since I was literally six years old, I've been asking my grandma if I could design TVF for DVF,' she told Vogue. 'I've just always wanted to do it.' She did the work, too, traveling with her grandmother and learning at the iconic designer's side from a very young age. Strike a pose! The 20-year-old appears to have had a few outfit changes, and also shared pictures of herself in a tiny dress in a bathroom Lookin' good! She wrote that this was the dress that she turned 20 in 'When I was nine, I went to Florence with my grandma for a special resort runway collection she was doing,' she told Teen Vogue. 'She told me I could only come if I really worked so there I was, mini-me helping cast the models and style the looks. 'Obviously I wasn't actually doing anything since I was so young, but I felt so involved and instrumental in the success of the project. After that trip I realized that fashion was 100 per cent. what I loved and wanted to pursue.' Since she moved from Los Angeles to the East Coast for college, she says she has taken on a bigger, more official role in the company. She also insists that she was 'involved in every decision,' unlike some celebrity vanity collaborations in which a celebrity signs off on the final product and slaps her name on it. 'It was definitely a learning process, but one which truly ignited my love and passion to not only launch my first-ever capsule but continue to grow in the realm of design for the future,' she said. Par-tay! On Monday night, Talita headed to the Met Gala alongside her grandmother Flower child: She wore a stunning floral gown for the occasion 'I thankfully had an amazing team who were easy to work and communicate with,' she went on. 'The process of creating one garment goes through many phases; it can easily end up looking very different than the piece was intended to be in the beginning, so constantly following up and having transparency is necessary.' But while she worked with a lot of people, one person she didn't run things by was her grandmother, who first launched the label in 1974. 'I didnt want her to influence my decisions since I value her opinion so much,' she explained to Vogue. 'I really would have changed everything based on what she said. 'She actually didnt see the clothes until they were produced. She had some criticisms, so we made some adjustments. She likes to get me stressed out,' she added. The final collection, which is priced from $128 to $298, is inspired by flowers and the sea. There are florals and pastels, crop tops and swishy skirts, youthfully short minis and boho maxis. It's finally here! Talita just launched her first fashion collection under her grandmother's label Buy it now: Everything in the 23-piece collection is priced under $300 Debut: Called TVF for DVF, the line is something she says she has wanted to do since she was six years old Wait for it... This first collection doesn't have any of her grandmother's signature wrap dresses, though they may pop up in the fall collection Inspo: She said these designs were inspired by her two favorite things, flowers and the sea What there aren't, yet, are her grandma's signature wrap dresses. 'I wanted to bring a younger, more millennial audience to the brand through Instagram, through younger clothing, and through a less-expensive price point,' she said. 'DVF definitely represents the working woman. TVF is not at the same place in her life where she has a 9-to-5 job. She doesnt need, specifically, work clothes. 'Shes still the effortless, easy, on-the-go woman that DVF is, just at a different point in her life, dressing for different types of events. Eventually, the TVF customer can become the DVF customer as we both grow.' Talita and Daine, 72, first announced the partnership in an interview for Town & Countrys March 2019 issue. 'I look at it this way,' Talita, who proclaimed she was 'born to do fashion,' said at the time. 'Your mom wore DVF, and maybe your grandmother wore DVF, but now I can bring something a little more fresh and youthful.' Previously, Talita modeled clothes for the brand's Fall 2018 lookbook, with DVF calling the teen her new 'muse'. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Magrino PR, Susan Magrino, was honored at the 2019 Matrix Awards this week. Founded in 1970, the Matrix Awards are an annual awards ceremony held by New York Women in Communications, to honor exceptional women in media. Susan is an accomplished marketing, branding and public relations professional with more than 30 distinguished years of experience. Her longtime client Martha Stewart presented her with the exceptional honor. Woman of the hour: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Magrino PR, Susan Magrino, was honored at the 2019 Matrix Awards in New York City this week Achievement: Founded in 1970, the Matrix Awards are an annual awards ceremony held by New York Women in Communications, to honor exceptional women in media 'I am honored to receive a 2019 Matrix Award and appreciate New York Women in Communications recognition of my achievement,' said Susan. 'This award is inspiring and encouraging and I am proud to be part of this distinguished group of honorees, both present and past. 'The work that New York Women in Communications does is very important in providing grants and scholarships to women in communications and encouraging leadership and professional development.' It's personal: With a heartfelt introduction, longtime Magrino PR client Martha Stewart presented Susan with the honor Well deserved: 'This award is inspiring and encouraging and I am proud to be part of this distinguished group of honorees, both present and past,' said Susan Support: Padma Lakshmi, Host & Executive Producer of Top Chef, and co-anchor of CBS This Morning, Gayle King (pictured), were also in attendance Best of the best: Magrino PR is regarded as one of the premier full-service public relations, marketing and communications firms in the industry Magrino PR is regarded as one of the premier full-service public relations, marketing and communications firms in the industry and has been named one of 50 most powerful PR firms in America by the NY Observer for the past four years. The agency works with the worlds most revered luxury brands in travel, real estate, food, wine & spirits, fashion, beauty, health & wellness, home furnishings & design, and consumer goods. 'We are proud to honor Susan Magrino for her talents and for her impact on our industry and beyond,' said Judith Harrison, President, New York Women in Communications and Senior Vice President, Diversity and Inclusion, Weber Shandwick. 'We look forward to ushering her into the remarkable group of Matrix Award winners who represent the best in class.' Powerful ladies: Susan was joined by CBS This Morning co-host, Norah O'Donnell, and co-host of MSNBCs "Morning Joe", Mika Brzezinski, at the podium Susan was joined by CBS This Morning co-host, Norah O'Donnell, and co-host of MSNBCs "Morning Joe", Mika Brzezinski, at the podium. Padma Lakshmi, Host & Executive Producer of Top Chef, and co-anchor of CBS This Morning, Gayle King, were also in attendance. For the special occasion, Susan looked lovely in a red Ralph Lauren shirt dress. She accessorized with a gold belt, Vhernier statement necklace and Manolo Blahnik heels. The Matrix Awards honoree has got a mind for business,and a flair for fashion. Her incredible #ootd snaps can be seen on her Instagram feed @susanmagrino7. On Wednesday the Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed they had named their firstborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, announced the name to the Sussex Royal Instagram account, along with a sweet picture of the two-day-old baby with Doria Ragland, the Queen and Prince Philip. The choice of name comes just months after Harry's nephew Prince George, 5, made the surprising revelation to a passerby that his nickname is 'Archie'. In January Prince George revealed his nickname is 'Archie' when he started chatting to a dogwalker. On Wednesday the Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed they had named their firstborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor just hours after they posed with him at Windsor Castle The young prince was walking with his grandmother, Carole Middleton, near her home in Berkshire, when he struck up a conversation with a stranger. The five-year-old started talking to the woman while stroking her dog after playing with his younger sister, Charlotte, in a stream. The woman was told not to take pictures of the royal children by a police protection officer. She made small talk with the prince, who is third in line to the throne, when he told her his name was actually Archie. The choice of name comes just months after Harry's nephew Prince George, 5, made the surprising revelation to a passerby that his nickname is 'Archie' The unnamed woman told the Sun: 'I was asked by a police minder not to take a photo of the children, which I didn't, but George started stroking my dog. 'Just to be friendly I engaged in a bit of small talk and I asked George what his name was, even though obviously I knew it. 'To my astonishment he said 'I'm called Archie' with a big smile on his face. I don't know why he calls himself Archie but kids often play with their names and I think it's lovely.' George's middle names are Alexander and Louis and at school he is known as PG. Parents Kate and William then started calling him PG Tips or just 'Tips' after the brand of tea. When she was pregnant Kate referred to him as 'our little grape'. Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, announced the name to the Sussex Royal Instagram account, along with a sweet picture of the two-day-old baby with Doria Ragland, the Queen and Prince Philip In January Prince George told a woman walking her dog in Berkshire that his nickname is 'Archie'. Above he is with his sister Charlotte arriving at the Lindo Wing at St Mary's Hospital after the birth of their younger brother, Prince Louis Archie is originally a German name with Scottish roots, where it is a shortened version of Archibald. The royal family often have nicknames for each other and Prince William went by the name 'Steve' at university to blend in with his fellow students. It also emerged that in September Charlotte is to go to the same Battersea school as her older brother. She has been at Willcocks Nursery in Kensington since last January and will enrol at Thomas's Battersea, which costs 6,000-a-term. It was reported last year that the Cambridges may not send their children to 'traditional' secondary schools such as Eton. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, posed with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle today Following the news of Baby Sussex's name on Wednesday, leading bookmaker Coral revealed they had offered a 100/1 on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle naming their baby boy Archie before they revealed the name late this afternoon. Alexander had been the 4/1 favourite, with Spencer, Arthur and James all well backed with the firm. 'We only took a handful of bets on Archie so this has to go down as one of the biggest surprises in Royal betting history as it was a 100/1 outsider before the name was revealed,' said Coral's John Hill. Prince Harry and Meghan are odds-on at 4-5 to announce they are having a second child in 2020. 'It would be no surprise if the Royal couple revealed at some point next year that little Archie will be having a brother or sister,' added Hill. The American former actress gave birth to the overdue 7lb 3oz boy on Monday at 5.26am. Royal fans flocked to social media after Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced the name of their son - Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The baby boy will not have a royal title like his cousins, the Cambridge's children, but will be known simply as Master Archie. The name, which wasn't a bookies favourite, has generally gone down well with fans - especially because it contains a touching tribute to the little one's father Prince Harry. Many were quick to pick up on the significance of the baby's middle name Harrison, the origin of which is 'son of Harry', or 'Harry's son'. But a great deal of people claimed the Royal Baby has been named after their dogs - with Archie proving to be a very popular moniker for pet hounds. Royal fans flocked to social media after Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced the name of their son - Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son will not have a royal title like his cousins, the Cambridge's children, but will be known simply as Master Archie Bemused dog owners shared photos of their pets, thanking the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for the 'tribute'. One tweeted: 'I'm pleased to announce that Meghan and Harry have honoured us by naming their child after our dog, Archie,' followed by a picture of the cute mutt. Another shared a photo of their West Highland White Terrier perched on a union jack cushion, captioning the picture: 'Personally I think my boy Archie is more regal.' Another one joked: '#Archie doesn't seem too bothered that Harry and Meghan have given their baby his name. It fits someone with a regal air, who is a bit of a rascal who loves everybody and everything,' and posted a snap of their gorgeous hound. Bemused dog owners shared photos of their pets, thanking the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for the 'tribute' Several weren't sure at first of the significance of Harrison as a middle name at first, with one tweeting: 'So my mum really just said Harrison is to mean... "Harry's son"... and I can't tell if she's joking or not.' Others thought it was a touching move, with one tweeting: 'Archie Harrison. As in Harry's son? Brilliant.' Another wrote on Instagram: 'Darling name!!! Hi, Archie!' while one commented: 'My dad's name is also Harry and my brother's middle name is also Harrison, and Archie is just so cute and impish, so I heartily approve of the babby's name (sic).' Little Archie Harrison made his very first public appearance at a photocall alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the new family have been holed up since the historic birth on Monday. Many Royal fans were quick to pick up on the significance of the baby's middle name Harrison, the origin of which is 'son of Harry', or 'Harry's son' Many suggested on social media that the baby's first name must have been inspired by American teen drama series Riverdale, based on the characters of Archie Comics. One questioned whether Meghan had been 'binge-watching the show while on maternity leave', while another joked: 'BREAKING NEWS: Queen bans and cancels Netflix subscriptions at Buckingham Palace. After Meghan's repeated viewing of Riverdale, subconsciously makes her decide on Archie as the child's name.' Many suggested on social media that the baby's first name must have been inspired by American teen drama series Riverdale, based on the characters of Archie Comics Not everyone was convinced by the choice of moniker. A One Direction fan expressed disappointment that the couple hadn't chosen Niall or Liam 'to go with Harry and Louis', while another moaned: 'Nooooooo!!!!! Harrison is cute, being the son of Prince Harry, but Archie is a comic book name. I was hoping for Spencer!' And one went so far as claiming 'Pikachu is more regal than Archie is'. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex answered several questions before leaving the hall to prepare to introduce the infant to the Queen. A One Direction fan expressed disappointment that the couple hadn't chosen Niall or Liam 'to go with Harry and Louis' Another royal fan had hoped Meghan and Harry called their child Spencer in a tribute to Harry's later mother Princess Diana A Pokemon fan went so far as claiming 'Pikachu is more regal than Archie is, you take that back' They once again strayed from royal tradition and opted to employ their own photographer, ex-soldier Chris Allerton, to capture three special shots, which the couple then posted on their 'SussexRoyal' Instagram account. The name itself was announced on the couple's Sussex Royal Instagram account. The sweet post read: 'The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The name itself was announced on the couple's Sussex Royal Instagram account this afternoon The name, which was not a bookies favourite, was widely praised by royal fans on social media 'This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen to her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess' mother were also present for this special occasion.' Speaking for only three minutes from inside the majestic St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, a radiant Meghan declared: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days. 'I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' Little Archie Harrison was introduced to the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Meghan's mother Doria by his proud parents The couple answered several questions earlier today before leaving the hall to prepare to introduce the infant to the Queen They once again strayed from royal tradition and opted to employ their own photographer, ex-soldier Chris Allerton, to take their official shots Harry said they were looking forward to spending some 'precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up.' Later, asked to show more of their son's face to the cameras, Meghan laughed as Harry joked: 'He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well, wonderful.' Meghan added: 'Thank you everybody for all the well wishes and kindness, it just means so much.' Harry said he and Meghan are looking forward to spending some 'precious times' with Archie as he 'slowly, slowly starts to grow up' Archie Harrison is seventh in line to the throne and the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh's eighth great-grandchild and the Prince of Wales's fourth grandchild. Shortly after the first photographs surfaced worldwide, royal fans went into meltdown as they declared that the baby looks 'just like Momma'. Others were quick to point out 'beautiful' Meghan looked post-birth, after the duchess was pictured for the first time in six weeks after going on maternity leave from public appearances. The birth of any baby is accompanied by an outpouring of hopes and wishes for their future. And in the case of three-day-old Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, the whole nation shares in the new parents' joy and anticipation. As the first mixed-race child born into the Royal Family, Archie is symbolic of the pace of change in our society. The Duchess has revealed she faced difficulties on the journey to 'voice my pride in being a strong, confident mixed-race woman'. It is a journey that many mixed-race women can identify with. Here, five women reveal what their lives were like growing up mixed-race in Britain . . Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, is the first mixed race person to be born into the royal family Meghan Markle as a child with her mother, Doria Ragland. Meghan, the first mixed race person to marry into the royal family, has a white father and black mother BILLIE GIANFRANCESCO, 29, is single and lives in Walthamstow, London. She is the head of PR at law firm Vardags. BILLIE GIANFRANCESCO, 29, is single and lives in Walthamstow, London. She is the head of PR at law firm Vardags I'm half-Caribbean and half-white, and growing up I never felt like I fitted in. I went to a small private girls' school in Norfolk, where my three sisters and I never had much of a black community around us. As a result, I felt quite alienated from black culture I didn't understand it. But I was also made to feel outsider by the white people around us, who'd ask: 'Where are you really from?' It's a question Meghan Markle's said she's encountered throughout her life and it's certainly plagued mine. At school, children were cruel. 'Where you come from they don't wear shoes, and they live in mud huts,' they'd remark and their words had a deep impact. As a girl, I honestly felt people thought I was some kind of savage. The new baby will, of course, lead a life of incredible privilege, but I truly hope he is able to embrace both sides of his heritage. I know from experience that it can lead to a lot of identity issues if you don't. You belong to two cultures, but they don't always sit easily side-by-side, especially if you happen to look more similar to one side of the family than the other. When I was young, I already felt very different to my schoolfriends because my mum, Trisha Goddard, was on TV as a talkshow host. I just wanted to fit in, so I tried to look as 'white' as possible, wearing make-up from the age of 12 to try to make my features more European, and chemically straightening my hair even though it was really painful. I also learned to hide my hurt when people made mean comments, repressing my feelings to avoid making a fuss. My mum told me and my sisters that these remarks were based on ignorance, not meanness, and encouraged us to come up with witty responses rather than getting angry. She would tell us that the way we reacted to a white person's comments could affect the way they treated every black person they met. That's probably partly true but it was a lot of pressure for a child living in a predominantly white area to take on board at a young age. My understanding of my heritage became even more complicated when I was 14. I'd always believed I was only a quarter mixed-race, because my dad is white. But then my mum found out that the white man she thought was her father wasn't her real dad, and that both her parents were black. It left me with a lot of confusion around race. At 26, I had a mental health breakdown. It was linked to lots of things, including my parents' divorce but I think a major factor was I had spent my youth constantly ashamed and denying who I was. I had a really low sense of self-worth and turned to alcohol and drugs to cope. I've been in therapy ever since, as well as seeking help for addiction. I'd never touch drugs now. I'm fortunate I've been able to build a career with Vardags. Billie is half-Caribbean and half-white. She says 'growing up I never felt like I fitted in. I went to a small private girls' school in Norfolk, where my three sisters and I never had much of a black community around us'. Pictured with her parents as a baby But equally important, I'm slowly exploring my black heritage. I visited Jamaica, where I started to accept my natural hair and got braids. I know I'm biologically mixed-race, and my whole life I've used that term, but now I tend to identify as black because I feel that mixed-race is a difficult thing to be. When Nelson Mandela came out of prison in 1990, my mum went to interview him and took me along as a baby. I was crying, and Mandela said: 'I haven't heard a baby cry in 27 years, can I hold her?' When he found out I was mixed-race, he said: 'She's the symbol of the world, a symbol of unity and love and hope.' Learning about that later was utterly humbling. Almost 30 years on, his vision of a future where races could mix harmoniously is coming closer. Mixed-race is the fastest- growing ethnic minority group in the UK, with experts suggesting there are more than two million mixed-race people in England and Wales. Things still aren't perfect, but I hope that this royal baby will help drive change forward. It's an enormous responsibility for a small child, but I hope it's also a legacy that will make him and everyone in Britain's mixed-race community proud. MAYA POWELL, 30, is an events manager from Bracknell, Berkshire. Her partner Aaron Holland, 29, is a senior account manager. She says: MAYA POWELL, 30, is an events manager from Bracknell, Berkshire. Her partner Aaron Holland, 29, is a senior account manager When I was growing up, Id often hear comments about looking quite white. My dad is from St Kitts, but after my parents divorced we were raised by my mum, a psychologist from Solihull and all her family were white so I didnt really have any non-white friends, nor did I have very traditional mixed-race features. But confusion kicked in as a teenager when I started to make mixed-race and black friends. People often commented on the fact that I was well-spoken, either being surprised, or asking me: Why do you speak like that? You speak differently. I recall feeling I had to choose between being more black or being more white. For years I had a sort of identity crisis. I remember asking myself: Should I alter the way I speak to come across as more black? Even though my mums family never treated me differently, I always noticed the difference between our skin colours. I had incidents where people didnt realise I was mixed-race and made negative comments in front of me. One was so shocking an acquaintance used the n-word that I didnt know what to do. A few times Ive had to say something like: Thats really inappropriate and Im actually mixed-race. As Ive got older, Ive learned to accept myself the way I am. If people see me as being more white, so what? Im proud to be mixed-race, and I hope to visit St Kitts one day with my dad to really explore that side of my heritage. I genuinely believe one day everyone will be mixed-race, a combination of a million different races. Maya says: 'My dad is from St Kitts, but after my parents divorced we were raised by my mum, a psychologist from Solihull and all her family were white so I didn't really have any non-white friends, nor did I have very traditional mixed-race features. But confusion kicked in as a teenager when I started to make mixed-race and black friends.' NICOLA CODNER, 38, is a counsellor. She's single and lives in Halifax. She says: NICOLA CODNER, 38, is a counsellor. She's single and lives in Halifax My Dad, born in the UK to a Jamaican father and mixed-race mother, was on the receiving end of a lot of racism where we lived in racially mixed Bradford. But my white British mum was also the target of abuse for having mixed-race children. I went to a predominantly white, middle-class Catholic school, and always felt like people were looking down on me. I was in a minority again when I went into publishing after university. As Ive got older, things have changed in how mixed-race people are perceived. I went from constantly feeling unattractive to being the flavour of the month. Being mixed-race is now seen as cool, sexy and different. It could be down to the fashion for tanned skin, and the simple fact there are more mixed-race people. It means I sometimes get a lot of attention from men but its often objectification, instead of interest in me as a person. Ive had relationships where, looking back, I realise how fixated they were on me being mixed-race. It happens with men of any race; when Im out, I often get comments like I really love mixed-race girls. To me, though its different, its another form of racism; if its not OK to dislike someone based on race, why is it OK to like them purely based on race? Im not married and I dont have children, and I think its partly down to issues stemming from race and identity. Im suspicious of why people are interested in me, and it stresses me out to think of having children Ive struggled, and maybe my children would, too. Depending on who I marry, they could be even more racially mixed than I am, and I just wouldnt want things to be as complicated for them. I had therapy to work on my issues around race and identity, and it inspired me to become a counsellor myself. Ive had to go on a journey of self-acceptance, and I want to help others do the same. RADHIKA HOLMSTROM, 55, is a writer and mum of two from London. Her partner, Danyal Sattar, is chief executive officer of Big Issue Invest. She says: RADHIKA HOLMSTROM, 55, is a writer and mum of two from London. Her partner, Danyal Sattar, is chief executive officer of Big Issue Invest. Because of the way I look I have pale skin and red hair (although its greying these days) people always assume Im white. In fact, my mum is from Bangalore its my father who is white and being part-Asian is really, really important to me. But people still sometimes dont believe me when I tell them Im half-Indian. They tell me Im lying, or ask why Im ashamed of my heritage, or why I make such a fuss about it? Im not ashamed Im terribly proud, and I make a fuss because if I dont, then I and others wont be recognised as mixed-race.Growing up in Norwich, because I appeared to be white, I escaped the racial abuse that my mother received working as a teacher. We didnt really talk about it at home: it was the elephant in the room. But that didnt mean I wasnt upset by it. It made me feel disloyal to mum and I didnt like being rubbed out of the conversation about race and heritage just because of the way I looked. All too often, mixed-race is defined in terms of how you look and theres a presumption you will identify more with the side of the family you happen to look like. But that isnt the case for all of us, and I think its important that our heritage is recognised, too. My partner now is half-English and half-Bengali, and looks very Bengali, which means our daughters are Bengali, English, Swedish and Danish. Theyre quite fair-skinned, but still get asked a lot where they come from. Still, I do believe its less complicated for them. My youngest daughter, whos 16, is proud to be unique and actually said to me yesterday: Do you realise, this is the first time that someone like me could have been born? Radhika says: 'Because of the way I look I have pale skin and red hair people always assume I'm white. In fact, my mum is from Bangalore it's my father who is white and being part-Asian is really, really important to me. But people still sometimes don't believe me when I tell them I'm half-Indian. They tell me I'm lying, or ask why I'm ashamed of my heritage, or why I make such a 'fuss' about it?' ANYA HARRIS, 55, works in finance for the NHS. A mother of two, she's divorced and lives in East Sussex. She says: ANYA HARRIS, 55, works in finance for the NHS. A mother of two, she's divorced and lives in East Sussex When I look back at childhood photos, I see a beautiful young girl, but that was not how I felt when I was growing up. I was the only person with brown skin at my school in Bournemouth, and I was subjected to constant racism. Im half-Indian my mum is white and my dad Indian, though they split up when I was a baby but I was constantly called wog, the n-word and told how filthy I was. I felt disgusting because thats how I was treated. I tried to scrub the brown off my skin, because other kids said I looked dirty. THIS was in the Seventies, and I felt too ashamed to tell my teachers. I told my mum, but she just said everyone was jealous of me for being clever, and dismissed it. It makes me cry thinking about it now. It had a really big impact on my self-confidence. I did really well in my all-girls grammar school and was told to apply for Oxford, but I didnt believe I was good enough. Instead, I left school at 16 to work in a bank. My career blossomed and I went to work in the City as a broker, but on the inside I was still struggling. For most of my life Id lie about my heritage and say I was half-Italian. It was only in my 30s when I visited Goa and was assumed by everyone there to be Indian that I started to see the beauty of Indian women. From that day on I felt less ashamed of myself, and now Im in my 50s, I do think my darker skin is an asset. I love that my two sons, aged ten and 14, are a quarter Indian. Their dad is Welsh, but they have skin that tans easily. They love it, and so do I. Look at Meghan Markle shes stunning. I do feel sad that I never appreciated my looks or culture when I was younger, but Im glad that now we live in a different world. Benjamin Franklin famously said that house guests, like fish, tend to smell after three days. In the case of an ex-husband coming to stay, you might expect the putrefaction process to set in rather more quickly. So it has come as a surprise that after an invitation to my ex to stay for a few days which has already been extended for a fortnight due to a bike accident, and looks set to continue for two more weeks war has not broken out yet. It would be tricky enough if it were just the two of us in my house. But my partner of a decade, Ronny, lives with me, too. So here we are, the three of us my former husband, Christian, Ronny, and me, under the same roof. Linda Kelsey's ex-husband has been staying with her for a fortnight and looks set to continue for at least two more weeks war has not broken out yet There have been awkward moments. The men have no difficulty remembering my name, while I am constantly calling Christian 'Ronny'. And last night in bed (though not in the throes of passion you'll be glad to hear) I called Ronny 'Christian', spluttering an apology as he raised an eyebrow and sniggered. And Christian has a habit of calling me 'Darling' and patting me on the bottom. This has not gone unnoticed. My friends think I am bonkers inviting my ex to stay. Those who are divorced, and still not at peace with their former spouses say they could never do it. They think Ronny should be declared a saint. I counter that we are just 60-somethings trying to navigate modern relationships. The reason Christian is staying is a practical one. Since last autumn, after more than 40 years in London, he's been spending more time in the town near Hamburg in Germany where he grew up. Our son Thomas, now 30, lives over here, and Christian, a businessman en route to Kenya for a work trip, came to see him. As he no longer has a place here, it didn't seem too big a stretch to offer him a roof for a few days so he could get together with Thomas, who doesn't have the space in his house-share. My friends think I am bonkers inviting my ex to stay. Those who are divorced, and still not at peace with their former spouses say they could never do it. They think Ronny should be declared a saint. I counter that we are just 60-somethings trying to navigate modern relationships. Yes, he could have called on friends but, despite our split, Christian and I are good friends. Ronny, who I met a year after my marriage ended, doesn't feel threatened by Christian and readily agreed. 'It's only a few days,' I said, pleading with Ronny not to end up in bed with my ex. This is not as unlikely as it sounds. Insomniac Ronny creeps into the spare room at night to avoid disturbing me. He's pretty groggy at 3am. I had nightmare visions of him forgetting Christian would be there. So far, however, he has stayed put. Meanwhile, the experiment has been nothing but interesting. If there are rivalries over my affections the men are not showing any obvious signs of it. But there has been some manly sparring. Take, for example, the big gathering we held at Easter, which coincided with the Jewish Passover feast. Christian, a keen cook, made an amazing German hazelnut cake. Ronny, a less keen cook, suddenly found great enthusiasm for Passover dish, charoset a sweet concoction of dates, walnuts, raisins and apples. As I looked around the table of 24 friends and relatives, I thought a lot about acceptance. We were at a feast to celebrate a Jewish festival, and yet almost half were of other faiths, including my ex. But if Ronny, who is Jewish, was enjoying singing Hebrew songs, so was Christian. My son, meanwhile, was explaining to his Chinese friend the Passover story. I realised this kind of inclusiveness was what I'd been working towards with Christian. Linda Kelsey (centre) with Ronny (left) and ex husband Christian (right) who is staying with her The day after Passover Christian went flying off his bike and spent the next 48 hours in and out of A&E. He has three arm fractures and a battered face. He can't leave for Africa until he's had the all clear. I've turned into a nurse and Ronny, an osteopath, is chief medical adviser. In our unusual household set-up, I am in charge of cooking and laundry. Sorting Ronny's and Christian's washing into piles, I muse on how different they are. Ronny enjoys being looked after, while fiercely independent Christian once shouted at me for offering to make him a sandwich, on the basis I wasn't his mother. Where Ronny is ever-cautious, Christian is impulsive. But both are warm and generous-spirited. Meanwhile, they have bonded over detailed discussions of broken bones and physio. The other night they were chatting and joking at the kitchen table, getting through a bottle of wine. However well it's going, this situation has made me think afresh about how things went wrong in my marriage and how I feel now. Meanwhile, the experiment has been nothing but interesting. If there are rivalries over my affections the men are not showing any obvious signs of it. But there has been some manly sparring My 25 years with Christian were mostly spent in harmony. When I had a breakdown, and for three years was unrecognisable as the woman he'd fallen in love with, his support was unwavering. It was only later, as his business went badly, that cracks showed. As he sought to sell the investment property that was our future pension and put it into a venture I thought risky, I couldn't go along with it. He then decided to go off on a 'gap year'. I became resentful. We no longer shared a vision of the future and he was having what some might term a mid-life crisis. At least he didn't run away with another woman that's why I can be friends again with him, or so say friends whose husbands left them for someone else. But in some ways I think I might have better understood being left for someone else, rather than an indulgent journey of 'self-discovery'. Since our split, Christian has had relationships, but so far none have lasted the distance. Linda Kelsey with her son Thomas and husband Christian pictured on their wedding day Although angry and very, very sad at the time, I realise now my love for him never vanished. And we were never disunited in wanting to do the best for our son. It's 11 years now since we separated, time enough to realise that to not recognise the joyful parts of our relationship would be a negation of a third of my life. And the result of that would be looking back with huge regret when so much of it was positive. These past few weeks have really brought that home. Christian puts it this way: 'If you have been in love with someone and that person was your best friend, you can't possibly not love and respect that person for the rest of your life; admittedly with minor adjustments on both sides.' Is it possible to love two men at once? I think it is. One is my partner. The other is my family, the one with whom I shared so much of my life, in a relationship which created our beloved son. Could I carry on indefinitely with these two men living with me under the same roof? Call me barmy, call me greedy, but actually, yes I'd go further. I'd say it's best just to ignore the difficult areas. So I make no outward judgments about anything he does. As for Ronny, even though he has a less easy relationship with his ex-wife and would never consider her living with us he respects the way Christian and I get on. And he likes the man. While Ronny is at work, Christian and I chat intermittently as we work at our computers. It takes me back to the last two years of our marriage, when we would work in hostile silence. It makes me mournful that we let ourselves drift apart. Is it possible to love two men at once? I think it is. One is my partner. The other is my family, the one with whom I shared so much of my life, in a relationship which created our beloved son. Could I carry on indefinitely with these two men living with me under the same roof? Call me barmy, call me greedy, but actually, yes. I asked Ronny how long he could put up with the situation. 'I can't tolerate endless,' he said. 'Maybe a couple of months. But I might miss him when he's gone.' Me, too. We British used to be so good at rainwear we invented both the mackintosh and the wellington boot. But for a long while, we seemed rather to have lost our rainwear edge. The French can do rainwear every Parisian owns a natty mac. The economies of Denmark and Sweden, thanks to cult brands such as Rains and Stutterheim, seem to be based on exporting rubberised outerwear. Even L.A. detective Columbo dressed better for British weather than we often do. Our options used to be a cagoule or a huge, hooded dog-walking coat. Fine if youre actually walking the dog, less fine elsewhere. Especially if you dont even own a dog. Coat, 495, beulahlondon. com; Trousers, 110, jaeger. co.uk; Mules, 225, russellandbromley.co.uk Coat, 189, filkk.com Left: Coat, 299, karenmillen.com; Top, 59.95, massimodutti.com; Skirt, 89, winserlondon.com; Sandals, 49, kurt geiger.com; Necklace, 85, jaeger. co.uk; Bag, 59, jigsaw-online.com Right: Coat, 99, marks andspencer.com; Sandals, now 49, kurtgeiger.com But this year we drizzle-soaked Brits can rejoice! When it comes to fashionable yet practical rainwear, were spoilt for choice. You cant move in the shops for chic raincoats in shimmering pastel and muted colours a fresh palette we all crave after a winter of greys and browns, even if the weather isnt as summery as we might wish. There has been a welcome leap forward in technical fabrics, which mean that the modern raincoat can be warm, light, waterproof and breathable all at once, so you wont mind buying a nice one and wearing it as an outer layer even when its dry. Norfolk-based outfitters The Carrier Company make a rain cape in a silk wax (220), which is a lighter take on the usual heavy, waxed cotton used most famously by Barbour. Marks & Spencers fabric finish means its raincoats are waterproof even though theyre made from a lightweight cotton essential for when the British weather does that thing where the rain stops, the sun comes out and its suddenly 78f. So why did it take us so long? My theory is that weve all been in denial about the weather. May arrives and we all shout, Hooray! Its summer! and run out into stair-rod rain in gingham smocks. Left: Coat, 99, marks andspencer.com; Sandals, now 49, kurtgeiger.com. Right: Coat, 199, hobbs.co.uk; Dress, 280, Stine Goya at fenwick.co.uk; Sandals, 155, russellandbromley.co.uk Coat, 189, filkk. com; Loafers, 55, dunelondon.com But were more accepting these days. It rains here its time to buy a raincoat and move on. Four years ago, thats what I did. What I need, I thought, looking out at the rain for the 50,000th time in my life, is a raincoat. It was from the French brand APC and cost 275. Not cheap but a true investment. Nowadays I always have a raincoat, and take great pleasure in being more prepared than everyone else, luxuriantly pulling it on as the heavens open (and everyone else gets drenched). Coat, 259, tedbaker.com; Skirt, 121, michaelstars. com; Sandals, 90, dunelondon.com I love it because it doesnt make a big deal out of the rain. It doesnt have zips, an emergency whistle, nine pockets, a huge hood or go swish, swish, swish, when I walk. It is a chic, navy, gabardine, double-breasted thing and if it could speak it would say: Bof, its only rain. It completes every outfit, it keeps me warm and toasty, and it even makes me look a bit French in the rain and you cant put a price on that. There she was, a goddess standing proud in the wilds of Windsor, her regal bearing undiluted by the spring rains. No, it was not the Queen, but a queen of sorts: Sky News presenter Kay Burley on a live TV broadcast, fresh from scaling Mount Snowdon and still wearing her climbing gloves to prove it. Do you want to say hello to the new royal baby? she cried to viewers, as if the tot might be tucked inside her anorak, along with a half bottle of gin and a slice of Kendal Mint Cake. Yes please, we all roared back. Show us the baby! After all, we have been ever so patient. The world has been given its first ever glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son today as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe Baby Sussex (pictured) made his very first public appearance at a photocall alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the new family have been holed up since the historic birth on Monday Harry was born a prince, but irritatingly he has become a sultan of the smokescreen; the frantic keeper of royal secrets, some important and therefore understandable, but others which seem infinitesimally trivial. With Meghans encouragement, the birth of Archie has been played out like a made-for-TV mini-series, just like her television legal drama Suits. The public have been fed episodic titbits, complete with cliff-hangers, plot twists, red herrings and the big reveal. So far we have had: Secret Morning Baby; The In Labour Untruth; Where is Mum?; Home Birth Half-Truths; The Baby Is Born; Look at Our Baby, Now Go Away, and finally, The Naming of the Baby. Yesterdays penultimate episode featured a two-minute photocall that somehow managed to be utterly joyous yet also a little bland and controlling. At the couples insistence, there were only three media outlets allowed into Windsor Castle for the announcement one of them being the American network CBS, where Meghans dear friend Gayle King is the star anchor. The news was revealed on the couple's Instagram account this afternoon, four hours after the beaming couple first showed their child to the world during which Prince Harry described him as a 'little bundle of joy' Not the big Lindo Wing media opportunity, noted Sky royal correspondent Rhiannon Mills, marooned with Kay Burley miles away in a sodden field. Indeed. It was perfectly timed to hit the all-important breakfast bulletins in America, where King, who was a guest at Meghans baby shower, could hardly contain herself. Hey baby, hey baby indeed! she roared on CBS This Morning as the pictures were beamed live across the Atlantic. I see he has a nose, I see one eye. I want to see his face. I want to know, has he got red hair? Come on. Didnt she meet Harry at the wedding? Inside the formal grandeur of St Georges Hall, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex beamed with the giddy elation of new parents - a charming sight. Only one interviewer had been granted permission to ask questions, so long as he didnt ask any questions about the birth, the location of the birth, the reason for all the mad subterfuge and a million other fascinating topics. This delicate duty fell to the unseen Alan Jones of the Press Association. He went for a chilled and friendly vibe, calling the couple you guys as if he was delivering their beers poolside. This seemed a bold approach, but on he charged; pathetically grateful for the 120 seconds of airtime royally bequeathed upon the nation. The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept Thanks for taking the time out, I know you guys must be really, really busy, but tell us about being a mum and Baby Sussex, he began. He also asked if the baby was sleeping well, who he took after, what parenting was like and whether they were off to see the Queen soon. Magic, amazing, happy and yes, were the various responses. We want to spend precious time with him as he slowly starts to grow up, said Harry cradling his son in a muffling cocoon of cashmere that the cameras could not penetrate. Can we have a little peek? the interviewer asked, desperate for a clearer view of the baby. Prince Harry lowered the shawl a fraction of an inch, then pushed it back up again. After all the fuss, Harry and Meghan ultimately found it in themselves to perform all the regal television duties that royal audiences love and expect; the babe in arms, the tired smiles, the graceful acceptance of the new parent platitudes. The warmth and cheers from the massed public crowds were missing, but as Skys Rhiannon Mills explained, they are a couple who have become an enormous international phenomenon who want to do things their own, private and discreet way. Also, via Instagram. Meanwhile, on CBS, Gayle King was boasting about a royal special I filmed in Windsor last week in which she must have had pretty good access. Harry calls the Queen Granny. Ive heard him call her Granny, she chummily informed her 3.2million viewers. To be continued. How they showed off Baby Sussex their way by Rebecca English They have been determined to do it their way from the start. And yesterday, as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex proudly introduced their son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the world, it was no different. Eschewing normal palace channels, the couple chose to reveal the two-day-olds name on their Instagram site @SussexRoyal. They accompanied the announcement with a stunning black and white photograph of the Queen and Prince Philip meeting their new great-grandson for the first time, along with Meghans mother, Doria Ragland taken by their wedding reception photographer, Chris Allerton. Sneak peak: Baby Sussex was wrapped in a white blanket and appeared in a white bonnet, keeping whether he has any hair and what colour it is a mystery Minutes later, the Queens Instagram feed posted the same shot in colour. On another historic day for the couple and the Royal Family: - Harry and Meghan posed with their son in the historic St Georges Hall in Windsor Castle, with the duchess declaring: Its magic, its pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so Im really happy; - The Duke of Edinburgh was the first member of the Royal Family to meet Archie, when the couple bumped into him as they arrived for their photo-call; - The couple, accompanied by Miss Ragland who is staying with them at Frogmore Cottage, visited the Queen in her private apartments at the castle to introduce the monarch to her eighth great-grandchild, the Royal Familys first mixed-race baby; - As predicted by the Mail, the duke and duchess have opted not to give their son a courtesy title and say he will be known simply as Master Archie Mountbatten-Windsor; - Aides said the seventh in line to the throne could become a prince when his grandfather, Prince Charles, becomes King, but sources indicated this would be unlikely as the couple are determined that Archie enjoys more of a private life than his royal cousins. The loved-up couple waved to the camera before walking off as they prepare to introduce the infant to his great-grandmother, the Queen, later today A source told the Mail last night that the couple chose the name Archie because they both love it, but also because it derives from archon or leader in Greek. They were taken with the symbolism, the source said. Harrison was similarly chosen because it was favoured by the couple but also because it means son of Harry. Aides told the Mail that the couple had been firm that their son would not take any of the courtesy titles to which he was entitled, most notably the Earl of Dumbarton, which is one of the lesser honours given to Harry by the Queen on his wedding day. It is another example started by the Sussexes when they announced several weeks ago that they intended to keep details around their childs birth secret of how they dont want to be bound by convention or history. Palace aides still refuse to confirm where Archie was born, three days after he was delivered, although the Mail has revealed that Meghans plans for a home birth were dashed and she had to go to hospital, most likely Londons Portland. Some of the couples best-laid plans went slightly awry, however. While their posting on Instagram of the babys name at 4.40pm was wildly popular gathering almost 2 million likes by last night Buckingham Palaces hurried attempts to erect a page on its official website were marred by an awkward blunder when it referred to Archie as the first child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge who are, of course, his uncle and aunt. Viewers swooned over Queen star Brian May tonight after the rock star admitted one of his greatest joys in life is rehabilitating hedgehogs. The legendary guitarist, who once performed the national anthem on the roof of Buckingham Palace for the Queen's Golden Jubilee, appeared on Channel 5's Saving Britain's Hedgehogs. He runs the Save Me Trust wildlife charity from his Surrey home, with his vegetable patch a dedicated 'holiday camp' for the spiky critters, whom he admits to caring for like his children. He invites the show's presenter - adventurer Steve Backshall - into his backyard to meet the 24 hedgehogs which he's rehabilitating with a view to releasing them back into the wild. Scroll down for video Viewers swooned over Queen star Brian May, pictured right with adventurer Steve Backshall, on Channel 5's Saving Britain's Hedgehogs tonight after the rock star admitted one of his greatest joys in life is rehabilitating hedgehogs The legendary guitarist, who once performed the national anthem on the roof of Buckingham Palace for the Queen's Golden Jubilee, has a vegetable patch which is a dedicated 'holiday camp' for the spiky critters As a hedgehog nibbles on his sock, Brian gently lifts the creature onto the ground to go in search of 'some lovely ants'. He describes his 'hedgehog heaven' as 'really rewarding', adding: 'They love it, how wonderful.' One of the creatures due to move into his patch is a hedgehog nicknamed Phil - but first, he requires a lifesaving operation during which he'll have an injured leg amputated. His stump is currently dragging along the ground, causing an open wound that won't heal. Along with Anne Brummer, who co-founded Saving Grace Rescue Centre in Surrey with Brian, where Phil was originally taken, Brian takes Phil to the vet, where surgeon Tom will perform the tricky procedure. Brian is visibly concerned for his 'little friend' Phil - who is renamed Philomena after they discover the critter actually a female. Brian has 24 hedgehogs in his backyard which he's rehabilitating with a view to releasing them back into the wild Three years ago, Brian teamed up with wildlife expert Anne Brummer to set up Amazing Grace, a hedgehog rescue centre in Surrey 'Doesn't matter anyway does it, it's gender fluid these days,' quips Brian. 'We don't care about gender.' A special box is used to administer anaesthetic gas and Philomena is then placed onto a heat pad for her op - at which point Brian coos: 'Aww how cute. Wow.' But during the operation, Philomena stops breathing - and Brian looks ashen with worry. During the show Brian takes Philomena the hedgehog to the vet with Anne Brummer, who runs Saving Grace Rescue Centre in Surrey, where surgeon Tom amputates one of her legs During the operation, Philomena stops breathing - and Brian looks ashen with worry as Tom battles to save her Luckily Tom manages to amputate and the hedgehog pulls through. 'Amazing, amazing,' Brian exclaims. 'I don't think any of us realised how stressful it was going to be, and you realise now how much on a knife-edge an operation like that is. 'If they hadn't been able to get her breathing again so skillfully, that would have been it. It would have been a terrible outcome. Brian admits he had no idea how stressful the operation would be, and jokes: 'It's hard being a parent' 'But she seems great, phew! Thank you God. It's hard being a parent.' Viewers praised the guitarist's gentle manner and obvious passion for the woodland creatures. One tweeted: 'Brian May. Hedgehog warrior,' while another commented: 'Great job. Brian...you are lovely chap!' 'Today's most shocking news is Brian May, off of Queen, is a MASSIVE Hedgehog fan and has his own Hedgehog sanctuary #mindblown,' wrote another. And one joked: 'Imagine expecting a hedgehog in (the vets) and in walks Brian May with it as well!!' Viewers praised the guitarist's gentle manner and obvious passion for the woodland creatures The Save Me Trust formed from a group of wildlife charities founded by May in 2009. The charities campaign on every level, according to May, from raising public awareness to lobbying MPs, but working directly with the animals is 'by far the most thrilling and rewarding'. 'The more and more you do with them, the more you realise they are the same as us in so many ways,' he said. 'Mammals are astonishingly close to us and that should inform the way we treat them. They have emotional feelings as well. 'I think it's important in the evolution of the human species that people realise we are not the only species deserving of care in their own right. 'If I could go to my grave thinking I could make a difference in the way we treat our fellow animals, that would be of vital importance to me.' Scientists have discovered a method to the wasp's menace which was once believed to be a trait only seen in humans. The insects also use a form of reasoning known as Transitive inference whereby known relationships are used to infer information about unknown relationships. An example of this reasoning is if A is bigger than B and B is bigger than C, then A is bigger than C - something that humans can deduce. Scientists have found wasps are first insects to use a form of reasoning called transitive inference Experiments revealed that due to the honeybees' tiny nervous systems, they didn't have the cognitive ability as wasps. The difference could indicated that the clever insects might succeed where bees havent. Elizabeth Tibbetts, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Michigan, believes wasps perform better than bees because they display types of complex social behaviour which isnt seen in bees. Professor Tibbetts tested whether two common species of paper wasp, Polistes dominula and Polistes metricus, could solve a transitive inference problem. The wasps were taught a hierarchy of five colours which can be labelled A, B, C, D and E. In pairs, the wasps went to the colours and learnt when they landed on one they would get a mild electric shock. When A and B were presented together, B would give the shock. But when the wasps were shown B and C, it was C that gave the shock. Out of C and D it was D, and out of D and E it was E that delivered a shock. Professor Tibbetts told The Times: I thought wasps might get confused, just like bees. But they had no trouble figuring out that a particular colour was safe in some situations and not safe in other situations. The findings are published today in the journal Biology Letters, which is published by the Royal Society. Patient Number One is a thin man, with a scabby face and bouncy knees. His head, shaved in preparation for surgery, is wrapped in a clean, white cloth. Years of drug use cost him his wife, his money and his self-respect, before landing him in this drab yellow room at a Shanghai hospital, facing the surgeon who in 72 hours will drill two small holes in his skull and feed electrodes deep into his brain. The hope is that technology will extinguish his addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. The treatment - deep brain stimulation - has long been used for movement disorders like Parkinson's. Now, the first clinical trial of DBS for methamphetamine addiction is being conducted at Shanghai's Ruijin Hospital, along with parallel trials for opioid addiction. And this troubled man is the very first patient. The surgery involves implanting a device that acts as a kind of pacemaker for the brain, electrically stimulating targeted areas. While Western attempts to push forward with human trials of DBS for addiction have foundered, China is emerging as a hub for this research. Scientists in Europe have struggled to recruit patients for their DBS addiction studies, and complex ethical, social and scientific questions have made it hard to push forward with this kind of work in the United States, where the devices can cost $100,000 to implant. Bloodied white mesh covers the head of a methamphetamine user named Yan on October 29, 2018, three days after he had a deep brain stimulation device implanted as part of a clinical trial at Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, China A brain scan of a methamphetamine user with the path of electrodes that doctors at Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai implanted to stimulate an area of the brain associated with addiction China has a long, if troubled, history of brain surgery for drug addiction. Even today, China's punitive anti-drug laws can force people into years of compulsory treatment, including 'rehabilitation' through labor. It has a large patient population, government funding and ambitious medical device companies ready to pay for DBS research. There are eight registered DBS clinical trials for drug addiction being conducted in the world, according to a U.S. National Institutes of Health database. Six are in China. But the suffering wrought by the opioid epidemic may be changing the risk-reward calculus for doctors and regulators in the United States. Now, the experimental surgery Patient Number One is about to undergo is coming to America. In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration greenlighted a clinical trial in West Virginia of DBS for opioid addiction. HUMAN EXPERIMENTS Patient Number One insisted that only his surname, Yan, be published; he fears losing his job if he is identified. He said doctors told him the surgery wasn't risky. 'But I still get nervous,' he said. 'It's my first time to go on the operating table.' Three of Yan's friends introduced him to meth in a hotel room shortly after the birth of his son in 2011. They told him: Just do it once, you've had your kid, you won't have problems. Smoking made Yan feel faint and slightly unhinged. Later, he found meth brought crystalline focus to his mind, which he directed at one thing: Cards. Every time Yan smoked, he gambled. And every time he gambled, he lost - all told, around $150,000 since he started using drugs, he estimated. His wife divorced him. He rarely saw his son. Yan checked into a hospital for detox, moved to another town to get away from bad influences, took Chinese traditional medicine. But he relapsed every time. 'My willpower is weak,' he said. Last year his father, who had a friend who had undergone DBS surgery at Ruijin, gave him an ultimatum: Back to rehab or brain surgery. 'Of course, I chose surgery,' Yan said. 'With surgery, I definitely have the chance to get my life back.' Before there were brain implants in China there was brain lesioning. Desperate families of heroin users paid thousands of dollars for unproven and risky surgeries in which doctors destroyed small clumps of brain tissue. Brain lesioning quickly became a profit center at some hospitals, but it also left a trail of patients with mood disorders, lost memories and altered sex drives. In 2004, China's Ministry of Health ordered a halt to brain lesioning for addiction at most hospitals. Nine years later, doctors at a military hospital in Xi'an reported that roughly half of the 1,167 patients who had their brains lesioned stayed off drugs for at least five years. DBS builds on that history. But unlike lesioning, which irreversibly kills brain cells, the devices allow brain interventions that are - in theory - reversible. The technology has opened a fresh field of human experimentation globally. 'As doctors we always need to think about the patients,' said Dr. Sun Bomin, director of Ruijin Hospital's functional neurosurgery department. 'They are human beings. You cannot say, 'Oh, we do not have any help, any treatment for you guys.'' Doctors discuss a plan on how to implant a deep brain stimulation device in the brain of a methamphetamine addict named Yan Sun said he has served as a consultant for two Chinese companies that make deep brain stimulators - SceneRay Corp. and Beijing PINS Medical Co. He has tried to turn Ruijin into a center of DBS research, not just for addiction, but also Tourette syndrome, depression and anorexia. In China, DBS devices can cost less than $25,000. Many patients pay cash. 'You can rest assured for the safety of this operation,' Yan's surgeon, Dr. Li Dianyou, told him. 'It is no problem. When it comes to effectiveness, you are not the first one, nor the last one. You can take it easy because we have done this a lot.' In fact, there are risks. There is a small chance Yan could die of a brain hemorrhage. He could emerge with changes to his personality, seizures, or an infection. And in the end, he may go right back on drugs. A BUZZING DRILL Some critics believe this surgery should not be allowed. They argue that such human experiments are premature, and will not address the complex biological, social and psychological factors that drive addiction. Scientists don't fully understand how DBS works and there is still debate about where electrodes should be placed to treat addiction. There is also skepticism in the global scientific community about the general quality and ethical rigor - particularly around issues like informed consent - of clinical trials done in China. 'It would be fantastic if there were something where we could flip a switch, but it's probably fanciful at this stage,' said Adrian Carter, who heads the neuroscience and society group at Monash University in Melbourne. 'There's a lot of risks that go with promoting that idea.' Dr Li Dianyou uses a tablet computer to adjust the settings of a deep brain stimulation device implanted in Yan's brain Orderlies roll a brain surgery patient out of the functional neurosurgery center at Ruijin Hospital The failure of two large-scale, U.S. clinical trials on DBS for depression around five years ago prompted soul-searching about what threshold of scientific understanding must be met in order to design effective, ethical experiments. 'We've had a reset in the field,' said Dr. Nader Pouratian, a neurosurgeon at UCLA who is investigating the use of DBS for chronic pain. He said it's 'a perfectly appropriate time' to research DBS for drug addiction, but only 'if we can move forward in ethical, well-informed, well-designed studies.' In China, meanwhile, scientists are charging ahead. At 9 a.m. on a grey October Friday in Shanghai, Dr. Li drilled through Yan's skull and threaded two electrodes down to his nucleus accumbens, a small structure near the base of the forebrain that has been implicated in addiction. Yan was awake during the surgery. The buzzing of the drill made him tremble. At 4 p.m. the same day, Yan went under general anesthesia for a second surgery to implant a battery pack in his chest to power the electrodes in his skull. Three hours later, Yan still hadn't woken from the anesthesia. His father began weeping. His doctors wondered if drug abuse had somehow altered his sensitivity to anesthesia. Finally, after 10 hours, Yan opened his eyes. A brain surgery patient walks down the main corridor. The hope is that DBS will extinguish his addiction, quite literally, with the flip of a switch. Critics say such human experiments are premature and risky, but US regulators in February greenlighted a human trial of DBS for opioid addiction at West Virginia University BODY COUNT According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 500,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in the decade ending in 2017 - increasingly, from synthetic opioids that come mainly from China, U.S. officials say. That's more than the number of U.S. soldiers who died in World War II and Vietnam combined. The body count has added urgency to efforts to find new, more effective treatments for addiction. While doctors in the U.S. are interested in using DBS for addiction, work funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health is still focused on experiments in animals, not people. At least two U.S. laboratories dropped clinical trials of DBS for treating alcoholism over concerns about study design and preliminary results that didn't seem to justify the risks, investigators who led the studies told The Associated Press. Western attempts to push forward with human trials of DBS for addiction have foundered, even as China emerged as a hub for this kind of research 'The lack of scientific clarity, the important but strict regulatory regime, along with the high cost and risk of surgery make clinical trials of DBS for addiction in the U.S. difficult at the present time,' said Dr. Emad Eskandar, the chairman of neurological surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. China's studies have offered mixed results. Sun and his colleagues have published one case study, describing a patient who used heroin and fatally overdosed three months after getting DBS. But a separate pilot study published in January by doctors at a military hospital in Xi'an showed that five of eight heroin users stayed off drugs for two years after DBS surgery. Based on those results, SceneRay is seeking Chinese regulatory approval of its DBS device for opioid addiction, and funding a multi-site clinical trial targeting 60 participants. SceneRay chairman Ning Yihua said his application for a clinical trial in the U.S. was blocked by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. But in February, the FDA greenlighted a small, separate trial of DBS for opioid use disorder, said Dr. Ali Rezai, who is leading the study at the West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. They hope to launch the trial in June, with funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The FDA declined comment. 'People are dying,' Rezai said. 'Their lives are devastated. It's a brain issue. We need to explore all options.' 'YOU CAME TOO LATE' Two unsteady days after Yan's surgery, doctors switched on his DBS device. As the electrodes activated, he felt a surge of excitement. The current running through his body kept him awake; he said he spent the whole night thinking about drugs. The next day, he sat across from Dr. Li, who used a tablet computer to remotely adjust the machine thrumming inside Yan's head. A stereotactic device presses into the head of a brain surgery patient at Ruijin 'Cheerful?' Li asked as the touched the controls on the tablet. 'Yes,' Yan answered. Li changed the settings. 'Now?' 'Agitated,' Yan said. He felt heat in his chest, then a beating sensation, numbness and fatigue. Yan began to sweat. Li made a few more modifications. 'Any feelings now?' 'Pretty happy now,' Yan said. He was in high spirits. 'This machine is pretty magical. He adjusts it to make you happy and you're happy, to make you nervous and you're nervous,' Yan said. 'It controls your happiness, anger, grief and joy.' Yan left the hospital the next morning. More than six months later, he said he's still off drugs. With sobriety, his skin cleared and he put on 20 pounds. When his friends got back in touch, he refused their drugs. He tried to rekindle his relationship with his ex-wife, but she was pregnant with her new husband's child. 'The only shame is that you came too late,' she told him. Sometimes, in his new life, he touches the hard cable in his neck that leads from the battery pack to the electrodes in his brain. And he wonders: What is the machine doing inside his head? A leading former brain surgeon has claimed women make better doctors than men because they're better at communicating. Dr Henry Marsh, a neurosurgeon at St George's Hospital in south London before he retired, made the comments at Stratford-upon-Avon Literary Festival. He said: 'Although its a reverse sexist comment, in my experience and opinion, the average woman makes a better doctor than the average man.' Dr Marsh admitted he hasn't always felt this way and, when he began teaching trainees 20 years ago, he was guilty of 'chauvinism' himself. But decades in the field have corrected the error of his thinking, he said. The medical community has been beset by claims of sexism and the British Medical Association last month announced an investigation into its members. Dr Henry Marsh, now a published author and teacher at St George's Hospital in Tooting, South London, where he used to work, admitted he was once 'chauvinistic' but experience made him realise the error of his ways 'Theres lots of bad woman doctors and lots of good men doctors,' the 69-year-old said. 'But given that such an important part of medicine is communication and teamwork, on the whole, its a sexist generalisation but women tend to do it a bit better than men. 'We (male doctors) are all competitive and driven by testosterone.' Dr Marsh, who now teaches at the Tooting hospital where he once worked, said women in medicine still face sexism but the situation is improving. He was a pioneer of awake brain surgery, in which patients are kept conscious and given a local anaesthetic during operations. WHAT KIND OF SEXISM HAVE WOMEN EXPERIENCED IN THE NHS? The British Medical Association (BMA) in April announced it would launch an investigation into sexism among its members. Two senior doctors on its GP committee, Dr Zoe Norris and Dr Katie Bramall-Stainer, revealed in columns online the misogyny they and their female colleagues had faced at work. They said male co-workers had been overheard 'braying loudly' as they guessed the bra size of a female doctor in the room. And there were instances of thigh squeezing, bottom patting, and one was sexually propositioned at a work meeting, the pair revealed. Hannah Yard, a 24-year-old medical student, also revealed the sexism she faced while training to be a consultant. Ms Yard, from Southampton, said she was called 'blondie' while on placement in an NHS orthopaedic surgery unit. She said staff would call her 'good girl' and one joked she was there to make the sandwiches. Ms Yard said the misogyny she faced 'made me want to cry'. Advertisement And Dr Marsh is now a published author of two memoirs, 'Do No Harm: Stories of Life, Death and Brain Surgery' and 'Admissions: A life in Brain Surgery'. 'About a third of my trainees are women,' he said. 'I dont think any of them, at least in my department, feel prejudiced against. 'But I know of other departments where they feel they are. Its a question of individual personalities.' Medical student Hannah Yard, 24, last month revealed she was called 'blondie' on a work placement and told she should die her hair brown if she wanted to be taken seriously. Ms Yard, from Southampton, said the sexism she faced while training 'made me want to cry'. She said staff would call her 'good girl' and one joked she was there to make the sandwiches. And two senior members of the British Medical Association (BMA) General Practitioners Committee, revealed their own shocking experiences. Dr Zoe Norris and Dr Katie Bramall-Stainer revealed they had heard of doctors loudly guessing the bra size of a female colleague, and levelled accusations of thigh squeezing and bottom patting. In response, chair of the BMA, Dr Chaand Nagpaul, said he was 'appallled' and announced there would be an investigation into sexism among doctors in the UK. Dr Marsh admitted in his talk that when he started in the field, he didn't think women would fare as well as men at neurosurgery. 'I was a bit chauvinistic about it 20 years ago when I started having women trainees,' he said. Hannah Yard (pictured left) said she was called 'blondie' for a week on a surgery placement, and Dr Zoe Norris (right) said male doctors had been overhead 'loudly' guessing a female colleague's bra size, and another had sexually propositioned a woman at a work meeting 'In the sense that I thought "well theyre just too nice", because its such a horrible job in many ways. Its so distressing and you have to be a bit ruthless. 'And I thought my women trainees were all too nice to be neurosurgeons, but I was completely wrong. 'Many of them now are consultants they are all very successful and very good so that represents a bit of rather old fashioned chauvinistic thinking on my part.' Medics fighting an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo fear their jobs will become even more dangerous after one of their vehicles was involved in a fatal crash. A motorbike-taxi driver was killed when a 4x4 carrying health workers smashed into his bike in Butembo - a city at the epicentre of the outbreak. Dr Chrisostome Shako, a doctor in one of the city's hospitals, said: 'A jeep used in the operation against Ebola accidentally hit the motorbike rider, who was killed. 'His colleagues threw rocks at the hospital when we were taking the body to the morgue.' The outpouring of fury led to all shops and commercial activity in the town grinding to a halt. Police said they deployed mixed patrols with soldiers to restore calm. The outbreak of the killer virus has claimed 1,055 lives so far, prompting the World Health Organization to call for thousands more to be vaccinated. A total of 1,055 people have died during the Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of the Congo since it began in August Dr Shako said he feared the tight-knit community of motorbike-taxi riders may start targeting the Ebola medics, undermining their ability to respond to the outbreak. The development will only increase tensions in the region, where violent attacks by militiamen has brought many response efforts to a halt. Armed militiamen reportedly believe Ebola is a conspiracy against them and have repeatedly attacked health workers who are trying to fight the DRC's second deadliest outbreak of the killer virus ever. It comes as the DRC Health Ministry revealed 1,055 people had died from the virus since the outbreak began last August. A motorbike driver was killed when a 4x4 carrying health workers smashed into his bike in Butembo. Pictured: Health workers marched in the city in April after attackers shot dead a World Health Organization doctor The outbreak appears to be getting worse as time goes on, with April seeing higher numbers of cases being diagnosed each week than at any point since the spread began in August Health experts warn that because of security issues it has been difficult getting into some areas to vaccinate those most at risk. Last month an attack on a hospital in Butembo killed a Cameroonian epidemiologist working for the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO said a surge in cases showed the current strategy of vaccinating those known to be directly exposed to the virus was no longer working. More than 111,000 people have already received the protective jab, through a so-called ring vaccination approach. The current Ebola outbreak is the second deadliest on record, after an epidemic that killed more than 11,300 people in 2014-2016. Pictured: A health worker in a hazmat suit in the Congo WHO WARNS IT MAY RUN OUT OF MONEY FIGHTING EBOLA OUTBREAK The World Health Organization's director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has warned the UN body is short of around $104million (80m) it needs to keep fighting Ebola in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The funding gap must be filled so health workers can continue battling the virus to the end of July and beyond, Science reported. 'We cannot intensify our efforts if we do not have enough funds,' Dr Tedros said. 'The current funding gap has meant that we have had to slow down preparedness activities in neighboring countries.' The UK's International Development Secretary, Penny Mordaunt, echoed Dr Tedros's sentiment and said other countries need to step up and contribute more. She said this month: 'The UK has been a major donor since the start. But this outbreak requires a truly global response if we're to stop this threat. 'It's time for other countries to step up. Diseases like this do not respect borders and it's in all of our interests to help contain the spread of Ebola.' The UK Government has refused to disclose how much it is contributing to the effort. Advertisement But this has not proved enough to stop the highly contagious virus from spreading in regions of DRC wracked with insecurity. Health workers are now implementing a 'ring' strategy, vaccinating anyone directly exposed to known cases of Ebola, and a second ring of those exposed to people in the first ring. 'The number of new cases continues to rise, in part due to repeated incidents of violence affecting the ability of response teams to immediately identify and create vaccination rings around all people at risk of contracting Ebola,' the WHO said in a statement. WHO experts have suggested giving the vaccine to entire neighbourhoods and villages where cases have been reported within the past 21 days. Last week experts warned the outbreak in the Congo could end up as disastrous as the West Africa epidemic of 2014. Dr Osman Dar, a global health expert at Chatham House and member of the Royal College of Physicians Edinburgh and Public Health England, said the death toll could spiral to rival the 11,310 who were killed in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone five years ago, he said. On April 28, the Congo experienced its most devastating outbreak so far, with a record 27 cases diagnosed in a single day. Dr Dar told MailOnline a lack of security where the outbreak is happening is the 'key issue' facing the organisations trying to stop it. The response to the Ebola outbreak has been hit by multiple setbacks the World Health Organization has warned it is in danger of running out of money, a doctor was killed earlier this month, and last week was the worst so far for the number of cases recorded The 2014 outbreak in West Africa began when an 18-month-old boy in Guinea got infected by a bat in December 2013, and the illness quickly spread to neighbouring countries. By the time the World Health Organization released its first situation report in August 2014, more than 3,000 people had been infected and 1,546 killed. A year later the number of cases had rocketed to 28,073 and 11,290 people had died. A 'go-to' diabetes drug could transform the lives of fibromyalgia sufferers, research suggests. A study found treating sufferers battling the chronic pain disorder with metformin 'dramatically' improved their symptoms. And some even saw their pain intensity go from ten out of a possible 11 to zero thanks to the commonly prescribed diabetes drug. The researchers also found a clear link between fibromyalgia and insulin resistance, which occurs when the body fails to respond to the hormone and skews its blood sugar control. Insulin resistance is thought to trigger 'dysfunction within the brain's small blood vessels', which may lead to widespread pain, the researchers claim. They hope their findings will speed up the diagnosis and treatment of the condition, of which sufferers include Lady Gaga and Girls creator Lena Dunham. Patients are currently forced to wait an average of five years before doctors get to the bottom of their symptoms. In September 2017, Lady Gaga (left) revealed she had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Around a year later, Girls creator Lena Dunham (right) revealed she too had the disorder. They are both pictured at the Met Gala Camp: Notes on Fashion in New York on May 6 The research was carried out by The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and led by Dr Miguel Pappolla, a professor of neurology. Fibromylagia affects around 2.7 per cent of people worldwide, with three women suffering for every one man, the researchers wrote in the journal PLOS ONE. Patients endure pain all over their body, with many also reporting fatigue, low mood and slow thinking. And fibromyalgia's burden extends well beyond its symptoms. The condition is said to cost the US alone around $100billion (768,637,000) a year, with similar set backs occurring in Europe, the researchers wrote. Doctors are currently forced to rely on a patient reporting their symptoms, as well as a physical examination of their tender areas. To test metformin's effects on fibromyalgia patients, the researchers first analysed their blood for markers of insulin resistance. They found 'most patients with fibromyalgia can be segregated by their HbA1c levels, a marker for insulin resistance'. 'Earlier studies discovered insulin resistance causes dysfunction within the brain's small blood vessels,' Dr Pappolla said. WHAT IS FIBROMYALGIA? Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition defined by widespread pain and fatigue. It affects up to 2.7 per cent of people worldwide, with three women suffering for every one man, studies suggest. Fibromyalgia is often triggered by a trauma, such as a car accident or childbirth, as well as infections. Why this occurs is unclear. The discomfort tends to be felt as aches and burning from head-to-toe. And the fatigue ranges from feeling sleepy to the exhaustion of having the flu. Severe sufferers are often unable to work or socialise. The pain can be worse at some times than others and may change location, such as becoming more severe in parts of the body that are used the most. Other symptoms can include headaches; IBS; diarrhoea or constipation; poor concentration; dizziness; allergies and stimuli sensitivity, such as to light or heat. Studies suggest the average patient waits five years to be diagnosed, which is thought to be due to X-rays and other medical tests not picking the condition up. It is generally defined as pain that lasts for more than three months and affects 11 or more out of 18 tender points when pressed. Treatment aims to relieve pain and aid sleep. Source: Fibromyalgia Action UK Advertisement An HbA1c test is often used to diagnose type 1 and 2 diabetes, as well as to check how a patient is managing their condition. It measures the percentage of haemoglobin in a person's blood that is coated with sugar, with higher levels suggesting their blood sugar is poorly controlled. This then implies an increased risk of diabetes complications. 'Pre-diabetics with slightly elevated HbA1c values carry a higher risk of developing central (brain) pain, a hallmark of fibromyalgia and other chronic pain disorders,' Dr Pappolla said. The researchers then analysed 23 fibromyalgia patients who were referred to a pain-medicine clinic with myofascial pain syndrome. This occurs when putting pressure on sensitive 'trigger points' in the muscle causes pain there and elsewhere. Hba1c measurements were taken from the participants and compared against age-matched controls with normal glucose levels. A twice-daily metformin dose of 500mg was then added to the fibromyalgia sufferers' existing painkiller regimen. All the participants self reported their discomfort throughout the study via the 11-point Numeric Pain Rating Scale. Results revealed a 'dramatic decrease' in the pain scores of those treated with metformin. Eight out of 16 of the patients who self reported their pain as ten at the start of the study claimed it even went down to zero. The researchers described this as 'a degree of improvement never observed before in such a large proportion of patients subjected to any available treatment'. This is 'unlikely a placebo effect' due to 'the impressive degree of long lasting pain improvement' and 'non-responders' being 'conspicuously absent'. This is in contrast to the patients who were treated just with their standard painkillers, who saw their discomfort go down, but rarely disappear altogether. The researchers caution, however, fibromyalgia sufferers tend to be overweight or obese and are therefore more at risk of insulin resistance anyway. Metformin may also relieve pain via a method independent of blood sugar control. Other drugs that also target insulin resistance should therefore be tested for their effect on fibromyalgia, the researchers added. Metformin (pictured, stock) helps the body to control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. The drug helps type 2 diabetics better respond to their own insulin, lowers the amount of sugar created by the liver and reduces the sugar absorbed by the intestines Fibromyalgia is thought to be brought on by the 'abnormal processing' of painful stimuli. However, this limited understanding has done little to ease patients' suffering, with a 2016 study concluding there has been no advances in fibromyalgia's treatment since its discovery. In September 2017, Lady Gaga revealed on Twitter she had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. In an interview with Vogue a year later, she claims she believes the condition was triggered by a sexual assault by a music producer at 19, as well as breaking her hip while on tour in 2013. '[Fibromyalgia is] really a cyclone of anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma and panic disorder, all of which sends the nervous system into overdrive, and then you have nerve pain as a result,' she said at the time. 'People need to be more compassionate. Chronic pain is no joke. 'It's every day waking up not knowing how you're going to feel.' Around the same time, Girls creator Lena Dunham revealed she had also been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. In an Instagram post in October 2018, she described how she had a flare-up after watching Dr Christine Blasey Ford testify in front of a Senate Judiciary hearing that then-Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh had raped her as a teen. 'On the day after Dr Ford's testimony I awoke with a start at 3am,' Dunham wrote. 'It felt like every cell in my neck was singing. 'My ankles and wrists were weak and my fingers didn't do their assigned job. 'Yesterday I felt like I was suspended in gel and when I meditated a line of pain zipped from my neck to my foot.' An Iowa Army veteran married his girlfriend just five hours before he passed away from a rare form of liver cancer. Tristin Laue, 20, of Waverly, joined the US Army National Guard in July 2016 before being medically discharged in April 2018 following his diagnosis Last month, doctors told the family that Laue likely only had weeks to live. But Laue had one final wish: to marry his girlfriend, Tianna Hargrafen, reported KWWL. Tristin Laue, 20, from Waverly, Iowa, married his girlfriend, Tianna Hargrafen, just five hours before he passed away from a rare form of liver cancer. Pictured: Laue, left, and Hargrafen at their wedding Laue (left and right) joined the US Army National Guard in July 2016 and he received his diagnosis of fibrolamellar carcinoma after he returned home from boot camp. He was medically discharged in April 2018 Laue was diagnosed with fibrolamellar carcinoma, a rare form of liver cancer, after returning home following his ten-week boot camp, Hargrafen told FOX TV stations. The cancer typically occurs in young adults around age 25 who are otherwise healthy. Many have no signs or symptoms until the disease is advanced, including abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Fibrolamellar carcinoma occurs in about one in 5 million people in the general population, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders. Studies have shown that when the cancer can be surgically resected, the five-year survival rates range from 51 percent to 70 percent. On April 20, Laue proposed to Hargrafen, on April 20 and, shortly after, doctors delivered the news that his cancer was terminal. Pictured: Laue, left, and Hargrafen at their wedding However, for those whose is disease is unresectable, the median survival is around 14 months. After leaving the National Guard, Laue enrolled at the University of Northern Iowa to get his degree in engineering design. Hargrafen told FOX that they started dating while Laue was completing his final round of immunotherapy. However, he soon started suffering from complications - the details of which remain unclear. In March, doctors told Laue's family that there wasn't more they could do. A month later, on April 20, Laue proposed to Tianna Hargrafen. 'He said he wanted to make sure I wanted it because he was in rough shape and wanted to be fair to me,' Hargrafen said. 'And I said of course I wanted to marry him. I always told him it wasn't that easy to get rid of me so I'd always be there.' The two families, and their community, spent 48 hours ordering bridal party dresses, booking a photographer and caterers and pitching a tent in Laue's parents' backyard. According to KWWL, about 60 guests showed up to the wedding on April 27. 'He's the love of my life,' Hargrafen told the station. '[My mom] said: 'Some people don't get what you two had in the amount of time. Like they'll be together for years and still not have the same connection that you guys did'.' The two families, and their community, spent 48 hours ordering bridal party dresses, booking a photographer and caterers and pitching a tent in Laue's parents' backyard. About 60 guests attended the wedding on April 27. Pictured, left and right: Laue Laue passed away five hours after the ceremony. Former classmates are raising money for a memorial bench in his honor. Pictured: Laue, seated and Hargrafen Five hours after the ceremony, Laue passed away. Funeral services were held at Crosspoint Church in Waverly on last week. 'Make sure you tell people you love them because you never know when you won't be able to,' Hargrafen told KWWL. A GoFundMe page was set up by Laue's former classmates to raise money for a memorial bench in his honor. So far, more than $3,500 has been raised out of an initial $3,000 goal. Drug firms will be forced to display prices on TV ads as of July 1, US Health and Human Service Secretary Alex Azar declared on Wednesday. Anything advertised that costs more than $35 will need a clear notice of its price. The 10 top advertised drugs are priced between $535 and $11,000 a month, according to the HHS. Azar said the policy seeks to address a pricing system that is 'completely opaque' to consumers. 'List prices matter to American patients,' he said in a speech at the National Academy of Medicine. 'I've heard it personally from patients myself, and so has the President.' Knowing the list price gives consumers some idea of what they're looking at, Alex Azar says Speaking to ABC, Azar said patients are urged to 'ask your doctor' about drugs advertised on TV, but they have no idea from the outset if it costs '$50 or $5,000'. He warns that most patients may feel uncomfortable and naive bringing up a drug that turns out to be eye-wateringly expensive. For 20 years, drug makers have been allowed to market their drugs direct to consumers, on the stipulation that they list the side effects. But in recent years, drug pricing has become a touchstone issue in the US, where manufacturers can freely price their products depending on market rates. In most other peer nations, the government regulates drug prices. In the US, the one thing that has remained tightly controlled is the list price - the starting point for drugmakers. It can fluctuate, but knowing the list price gives consumers some idea of what they're looking at, Azar says. Pharmaceutical companies, predictably, disagree. They argue that the list price is simply confusing for most Americans given that most patients receiving drugs have health insurance, and depending on their insurer it could dramatically affect the price or discount they are eligible for. Azar insists that is no reason to be opaque about the list price. 'Patients deserve to know what a given drug could cost when they're being told about the benefits and risks it may have,' Azar said when he proposed the policy last May. 'They deserve to know if the drug company has pushed their prices to abusive levels. And they deserve to know this every time they see a drug advertised to them on TV.' Companies that do not comply within 60 days, Azar said, will be named and shamed and reprimanded. A new survey of cannabis users found most of them are very active - flouting the stereotype of sedentary stoners. In fact, researchers found 80 percent of the people they interviewed use the drug around the time they work out, smoking or or ingesting marijuana one hour before or within four hours after they exercise. Many said that using pot made their workouts more enjoyable, improved their post-workout recovery and helped motivate them to be active. The team, from the University of Colorado Boulder says this is the first study to look at the effects marijuana has on exercise habits and could help break the stereotype of stoners as being laid-back, lazy and inactive. A new study from the University of Colorado Boulder found that 70% of cannabis users said the drug made their workouts more enjoyable and more than 30% said it improved their performance (file image) For the study, published in Frontiers in Public Health, the team surveyed 600 adults pot users who live in states where legal and recreational marijuana is illegal. The states included California, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, and the participants were asked questions about cannabis and exercise. Questions included when the adults used the drug, if they believed it impacted their workouts and whether they thought it motivated them. A shockingly high 82 percent of the adults said they used marijuana within an hour before working out and within four hours after their workout ended. In fact, cannabis users who smoked or ate edibles prior to or after a workout got nearly 45 more minutes of exercise per week than cannabis users who did not. 'There is a stereotype that cannabis use leads people to be lazy and couch-locked and not physically active, but these data suggest that this is not the case,' said senior author Dr Angela Bryan, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at the University of Colorado Boulder. Approximately 70 percent of the adults said that pot made their workouts more enjoyable and around 80 percent said they feel it improved their recovery post-workout. Around 50 percent said the drug motivated them to be physically active, but only a little more than 30 percent said it improved their performance during workouts. Dr Bryan says that, despite the findings, she does not recommend cannabis as a supplement to exercise. 'The evidence is not there yet, but I am also not convinced it is harmful,' she said. Researchers say they believe that, because cannabis is anti-inflammatory, it could reduce pain, which could - in turn - speed recovery. 'There is evidence to suggest that certain cannabinoids dampen pain perception, and we also know that the receptors cannabis binds to in the brain are very similar to the receptors that are activated naturally during the runners high,' said co-author Arielle Gillman, a former doctoral student. 'Theoretically, you could imagine that if it could dampen pain and induce an artificial runner's high, it could keep people motivated.' For future research, the team wants to look at how active older adults who use cannabis are compared to those who are not. 'As we get older, exercise starts to hurt, and that is one reason older adults don't exercise as much,' Dr Bryan said. 'If cannabis could ease pain and inflammation, helping older adults to be more active that could be another benefit.' Three members of Robert F Kennedy Jr's family have slammed his views on vaccines, calling them 'tragically wrong'. Kennedy Jr, the son of late Attorney General Robert F Kennedy and nephew of late President John F Kennedy, is a prominent anti-vaccine activist and has advocated that parents should choose whether or not they want their children immunized. His siblings, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend and Joseph P Kennedy II, and his niece, Maeve Kennedy McKean, authored an op-ed in Politico Magazine on Wednesday citing the rise of measles in the US. 'Robert F Kennedy Jr - Joe and Kathleen's brother and Maeve's uncle - is part of this campaign to attack the institutions committed to reducing the tragedy of preventable infectious diseases,' they wrote. 'He has helped to spread dangerous misinformation over social media and is complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines.' Three members of prominent anti-vaccine activist Robert F Kennedy Jr's family attacked his views on vaccines in an op-ed in Politico Magazine and called them 'tragically wrong'. Pictured: Kennedy Jr in Beverly Hills, California, in March 2019 His siblings, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend (left) and Joseph P Kennedy II, and his niece, Maeve Kennedy McKean (right), accused him of spreading misinformation about vaccines and warned that it could have 'heartbreaking - and deadly -consequences' In the op-ed, Kennedy's family members praised his work of cleaning and fighting against water pollution. But they called his views on vaccines 'wrong' and said that his spreading of misinformation was could have 'heartbreaking - and deadly - consequences'. On Monday, federal health officials revealed that a total of 764 people in 23 states have been sickened by the measles, the highest number since the virus was deemed 'eliminated' in 2000. In New York City alone, the caseload is 466 since the outbreak began in October 2018, mostly among Orthodox Jewish communities. 'These tragic numbers are caused by the growing fear and mistrust of vaccines - amplified by internet doomsayers,' the three authors wrote. Kennedy Jr's relatives also accused him of helping 'to spread dangerous misinformation over social media and is complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines.' The environmentalist had railed against vaccine manufacturers for their use of thiomersal, a mercury compound in certain vaccines, claiming it's 'poisoning' children. Thiomersal, however, is no longer used in US vaccines - except some versions of the flu shot - and hasn't been proven to cause autism. Kennedy Jr also said he wants to make sure 'vaccines are subject to the same kind of safety scrutiny and safety testing that other drugs are subject to' according to an August 2017 interview with STAT News. But vaccines are under greater scrutiny and undergo more safety testing at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention than drugs do. The three family members cited the measles outbreak in the US, which has so far sickened 764 people in 23 states. Pictured: Joseph P Kennedy II, August 2009 Kennedy Jr told reporters in January 2017 that he had been asked by President Donald Trump to chair a commission to review vaccine safety. It seems the administration has since abandoned such plans. Pictured: Kennedy Jr, right, with Cheryl Hines, February 2019 The attorney has also tied the rise of chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes to vaccines as well as pesticides. Kennedy Townsend, Kennedy II and Kennedy McKean called their sibling and uncle 'an outlier in the Kennedy family', saying that John F Kennedy, Robert F Kennedy, and their brother, Ted Kennedy, were all supporters of vaccines. In January 2017, President Donald Trump met with Kennedy Jr, who told reporters at the time that he had been asked to chair a commission to review vaccine safety. But in February 2018, Kennedy told The Guardian he hadn't heard from the White House in six months and there had been 'zero progress' - implying the administration has abandoned its plans for the committee. '[W]e are proud of the history of our family as advocates of public health and promoters of immunization campaigns to bring life-saving vaccines to the poorest and most remote corners of America and the world, where children are the least likely to receive their full course of vaccinations,' the three authors wrote. Kennedy Townsend is the former lieutenant governor of Maryland, Kennedy II is a former congressman from Massachusetts and Kennedy McKean is the executive director of Georgetown University's Global Health Initiatives. A powerful industry body opposing a major shake-up of the Big Four accountants is cashing in on the failings of auditors. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has collected more than 50 million in fines levied on firms that botched audits. Its coffers were further bolstered yesterday when KPMG was fined 5 million for failing to spot a massive black hole that nearly destroyed the Co-op Bank. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has collected more than 50 million in fines levied on firms that botched audits The fines help fund the ICAEW's work, including its opposition to some proposals to reform the Big Four aimed at improving the quality of audit work. Critics said the rules are farcical, and mean the chief cheerleader for big auditors is using cash intended to punish them to campaign on their behalf. Professor Prem Sikka, of the University of Sheffield, said: 'The KPMG fine is another windfall for the ICAEW. 'They use that money to reduce the fees that firms pay, and they are campaigning against even the modest reforms that have been proposed. 'So KPMG know that all this is doing is giving money to a campaign designed to protect them and the rest of the Big Four. The whole situation is a farce. And it just shows how incompetent the accounting industry is.' The ICAEW is responsible for licensing chartered accountants and overseeing the profession The fines are levied by the Financial Reporting Council, a watchdog which polices big accountants. For investigations started before 2016, the money must be paid to the ICAEW. Its accounts show it has been given more than 50 million in penalty payments since 2012. Fines raised from audit investigations which begin after 2016 go to HM Revenue and Customs. The ICAEW is responsible for licensing chartered accountants and overseeing the profession. It is led by accountants and its vice-president, David Matthews (pictured), is a KPMG partner. The ICAEW is led by accountants and its vice-president, David Matthews (pictured), is a KPMG partner The organisation has close contact with the Government, with its employees attending 12 meetings with business ministers last year. It has been vocal in opposing some key industry reforms, such as a break-up of the Big Four and joint audits, where FTSE 100 companies are required to hire both a larger beancounter and a smaller one, to broaden competition. Chief executive Michael Izza hit back last month at proposals by the Competition and Markets Authority to make the industry more effective. He said: 'Some of the measures could prove counter-productive, pushing up costs for businesses and consumers while doing little to improve quality or increase choice.' The ICAEW is given fines money because it has a role in funding tribunal work in the run-up to a penalty being announced. In 2012 it got 100,000. This rose to 1.3 million in 2013, and to 10.5 million in 2016. Last year, it picked up 16.3 million from FRC fines and recovered costs 13 per cent of its income. Labour MP Peter Kyle, a member of the Business Select Committee, said: 'We can't have a situation where accountancy firms are fined for malpractice and the body that's campaigning to slow down reform is the beneficiary. 'It seems perverse that such a system still exists in 2019, in a post-financial crash world.' The ICAEW said that it has contributed 60 million to FRC investigations in the past 20 years. It added: 'As a professional membership body with a Royal Charter to act in the public interest, we use the money from recovered fines to fund activities and projects that are in the public interest and that will have the right impact. 'Chartered accountants accept the need for reform and are working with all parties to produce effective recommendations for regulation and legislation which will improve quality and increase choice in the market, while ensuring that audit meets the future needs of British business and wider society.' Canadian mining and energy companies are likely to flock to London to raise funds after being squeezed in Toronto Canadian mining and energy companies are likely to flock to London to raise funds after being squeezed in Toronto. Huge interest in cannabis firms since 2016 has soaked up cash, making it hard to raise cash on Toronto's usually mining-friendly market. That makes London, a world-renowned market for resources firms, more attractive for a second listing. Trinidad-focused oil and gas firm Touchstone Exploration was listed in Toronto when it joined AIM in 2017, with chief executive Paul Baay claiming: 'I am certain we will see numerous [Canadian] companies raise capital and list in London during 2019.' Facebook is setting up a unit in London to spearhead its push into mobile payments Facebook is setting up a unit in London to spearhead its push into mobile payments. Whatsapp, the messaging app it bought for 12 billion five years ago, is seeking 100 people in the capital and in Dublin to work on the project. Facebook hopes the service will allow users to easily send cash to one another within the app, by linking their phone numbers with their bank accounts. The decision will be seen as a major vote of confidence in the City as the UK prepares to leave the EU. Matt Idema, Whatsapp's operating chief, added: 'We're eager to work with some of the best technical and operational experts in both London and Dublin to take Whatsapp into its second decade.' The move comes as tech giants move into mobile payments, with Apple last year unveiling a US-only service to send cash via text message. Google has introduced a similar service. The boss of Standard Chartered launched a robust defence of his lucrative pay deal as he faced a furious backlash from investors. Striking a defiant tone ahead of the bank's annual meeting, Bill Winters dismissed complaints about his earnings, including the 474,000 he will get towards his pension this year alone. But just hours later he was given a bloody nose when 36.2 per cent of shareholders voted against the bank's pay policy in one of the biggest investor rebellions so far this year. The boss of Standard Chartered launched a robust defence of his lucrative pay deal as he faced a furious backlash from investors It will be seen as a major blow to the London-based bank's reputation as it seeks to move on from a major money laundering scandal. Standard Chartered will now hold meetings with investors to try to reassure them it is behaving responsibly. Christine Hodgson, chairman of the lender's pay committee, said: 'Although the policy was approved, we need to engage further on this.' The bank has been caught up in a huge backlash over pensions for chief executives, which tend to be far more lucrative than they are for ordinary staff. Last year, Winters got 460,000 in contributions from the bank, equal to 40 per cent of his 1.2 million cash salary. Most Standard Chartered employees are given contributions of just 10 per cent. Guidance from the Investment Association trade body says that bosses should get the same deal as their workers, and no more than 24 per cent at most. In what was seen as a stealthy bid to head off criticism, the bank has now changed what it calculates Winters' pay against, to massage the numbers. From this year it is lumping his cash salary in with a fixed pay allowance, meaning they are together worth 2.4 million. The change allowed the bank to claim that Winters will get pension contributions of 20 per cent against this figure. But the actual amount he is being given for his pension is going up by 14,000 to 474,000 this year, due to an annual pay rise. Winters was defiant about his pay. Ahead of the annual meeting, the 57-year-old said: 'I don't know what the focus on pension allowances is when we've been totally transparent that the board decided not to impose a pay cut on me, not to violate the contract that they have with me. That's it. I mean the rest is noise.' Others have also been criticised on pension arrangements. Lloyds sought to head off criticism by cutting chief executive Antonio Horta-Osorio's pension by 154,000 from 46 per cent to 33 per cent of his base salary. But it has been criticised for offsetting this with a 175,000 increase in other elements of his fixed pay. Lloyds has claimed the two are not linked, and that Horta-Osorio is getting a pay rise because new regulations have made his job more complicated. Meanwhile, Barclays boss Jes Staley suffered a 29.2 per cent rebellion on his pay last week because investors thought that the bank did not go far enough in docking the bonus he received after he wrongly attempted to unmask a whistleblower. Trendy furniture firm Made is preparing to take on Ikea in its home country of Sweden Trendy furniture firm Made is preparing to take on Ikea in its home country of Sweden. Made, which only sells its products online, will open a showroom in Stockholm, next door to Ikea. Customers can test sofas and beds before buying through its website. It is part of a major overseas expansion by a retailer famous for its copper bedframes, velvet armchairs and brass lamps. Philippe Chainieux, chief executive of Made, said: 'The ambition is to bring high-end style at an affordable price to consumers.' Made is based in London and employs more than 500 staff. The returning chief executive of small company broker Cenkos is facing scrutiny The returning chief executive of small company broker Cenkos is facing fierce scrutiny from the City regulator, amid fears he may not be the right man for the job. Jim Durkin, 58, left Cenkos in 2017 and announced his comeback just 18 months later. But almost six months after he revealed his return, he is still waiting to be approved for the position by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority. Candidates should be app-roved as 'fit and proper' within three months, but the Mail has learned Durkin was called into the FCA for an interview. He was at the helm of Cenkos when it was fined 530,500 for failings relating to work for scandal-stricken insurance software firm Quindell. Cenkos declined to comment. The Duchess of Cambridge gave millions of Britons a Christmas treat on TV tonight as she played the piano to accompany singer Tom Walker with a poignant song performed by candlelight at Westminster Abbey. Kate, who has tickled the ivories since she was a child, recorded the song with Walker in the Chapter House of the Abbey, one day before a community carol service on December 8 which was shown on ITV this evening. They played his Christmas single 'For Those Who Can't Be Here' together, after the Duchess had the idea for the performance following a meeting with Walker when she heard him play at a charity function in October. At that event for The Forward Trust, a London-based charity that helps people with drug and alcohol dependence, Walker played 'Leave a Light On' - a song about the struggles of those experiencing addiction. And the 30-year-old Scot was then approached to play for the carol service, with Kate, 39, having come up with the idea of accompanying him on the piano after music brought 'great comfort' to her during the lockdowns. The song was written to Walker for 'anyone raising a glass around the table remembering those who can't be with us' this festive season - as hundreds of thousands of people are set to spend Christmas Day in self-isolation with Covid-19, while others think of members of their family and friends they have lost to the virus or other causes. Walker described the Duchess as a 'lovely, kind and warm hearted person' and praised her for having 'absolutely smashed' the performance, adding that it was a 'crazy pinch yourself kind of day' for him. One of the toughest questions Democratic presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke has faced in the early days of his campaign came from an eighth grader at an Iowa middle school. Addressing the Democrat from Texas when he spoke to her civics class on Monday, 14-year-old Milan Underberg asked a question that's been on the minds of students across the nation: What will be done to stop school shootings? The question became all the more relevant a mere 24 hours later when gunfire erupted at the STEM School Highlands Ranch near Denver, Colorado, on Tuesday afternoon. Milan Underberg, 14, cried as she posed a question about school shootings to Beto O'Rourke when the Democratic presidential nominee visited her class at Berg Middle School in Newton, Iowa, on Monday. 'I'm afraid that, one day, I'll go to school and I'll never come out,' she said O'Rourke thanked Milan for her question before repeating his calls for banning assault weapons and instituting universal background checks for firearm purchases nationwide O'Rourke was invited to Berg Middle School in Newton, about 30 miles from Des Moines, by teacher Tyler Stewart, who teaches civics. Stewart's class includes lessons about voter access, and students followed O'Rourke's near-upset of Republican Sen Ted Cruz in Texas last November while they were studying Texas' strict voter ID laws. He asked the former congressman to come talk to the students as he campaigns across the state that kicks off presidential primary voting - and O'Rourke accepted. The politician came prepared with his usual charisma and well-crafted answers to stock questions, but appeared to be caught of guard when taken on by Milan. The teen openly cried as she asked about the 'little or no effort' that the federal government has made to stop school shootings. Her voice cracked when she said: 'I'm afraid that, one day, I'll go to school and I'll never come out.' Milan apologized for crying, to which O'Rourke responded quietly: 'No, you're good.' He thanked her for demanding answers on a divisive political issue in the most 'personal, powerful terms possible. It's the only way that we're going to get the change that you want and you deserve'. O'Rourke then repeated his customary calls for banning assault weapons and instituting universal background checks for those purchasing firearms nationwide, adding that, like the civil rights movement, change on this issue will only come from younger generations who force 'people in power to do the right thing.' Afterward, Milan said she was happy with O'Rourke's answer and, before posing for a cellphone picture with her, the candidate said: 'Thank you so much for your question and the way that you asked it.' Milan's question became all the more relevant a mere 24 hours later when gunfire erupted at the STEM School Highlands Ranch near Denver, Colorado, on Tuesday afternoon Many of O'Rourke's usual jokes fell flat in front of the group of more than 40 middle schoolers, including one about his Republican mother voting for him in his Senate race and another about rare independent voters in Texas. Stewart asked him how he would compete against Trump if he were to make it through the primary, given that the president's insults of political rivals are sometimes so vulgar that he can't share them with his class. O'Rourke said the key was not to respond but to call out the president for the adverse effects of his words. 'We don't have to get into the name-calling, the pettiness the bitterness, the partisanship,' he said. Asked about his lack of early laughs afterward, O'Rourke nodded and said: 'It's, yeah, maybe a little bit of a different audience.' But, he added, 'The best thing that I could have done is just listen to them and answer their questions.' Iowa's Democratic primary caucuses are Feb. 3 and Stewart, who said he'd also been in contact with Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren's campaign about paying a similar visit to his class, said to O'Rourke that in February 'if you're still having around, we'd love to have you back.' An elderly woman accused of torturing and mutilating animals inside her home insists she is just trying to help them. Brenda Dorothy Marney, 73, faces numerous animal cruelty charges after police raided her home in Tuncurry, on the NSW Mid-North Coast, on Friday. Officers allegedly found a caged magpie without a beak, and phones containing sickening images videos of animals mutilated in public places. But the retiree claims she merely cares for injured animals she finds in Tuncurry and nearby Forster, where she is known as the 'bird lady' by locals. Brenda Dorothy Marney (pictured), 73, faces numerous animal cruelty charges after police raided her home in Tuncurry, on the NSW Mid-North Coast on Friday 'This is a misunderstanding, I love animals and would never hurt them, I just look after them,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'I've been caring for birds for 40 years, when I see one that's hurt or sick I bring it home and feed it and help it.' Marney was allegedly spotted feeding fish to a pelican at a boat ramp near her house before forcing the bird into her car and slamming the boot on its wing. 'The pelican had a hook in its wing so I took it home to take it out and look after it,' she said. 'Someone saw and reported it but I was just trying to help.' Brenda Marney's Tuncurry home is accused of torturing and mutilating birds (pictured, birds at her home) 'This is a misunderstanding, I love animals and would never hurt them, I just look after them,' Marney told Daily Mail Australia Marney is accused of gaining the trust of animals by feeding them, before taking them home and torturing them over an extended period of time. Her home on a quiet waterfront street had plastic sheets covering all her windows, with barbed chicken wire in front some of them. The approach to her front door was obscured by plastic sheeting with a makeshift metal fence and barbed wire in front. A large bird coop was visible through a narrow gap in the sheet looking towards the garage. Marney is known in Tuncurry as the 'bird lady' who frequents waterside areas every day to feed birds. The Tuncurry boat ramp where accused animal abuser Brenda Marney allegedly lured a pelican from before forcing it into her car Suzie McEnallay at Wallis Lake Fisherman's Co-op said Marney bought mullet to feed to nearby birds as often as three times a day. 'She would pull up in the park and birds would flock to her like they just knew her car,' she said. Marney was also often seen at the local Woolworths buying dog food and bananas to feed her menagerie at home. Ms McEnallay said one day Marney came into the shop with her face covered in scratches and alarmed staff asked what happened. 'She said she had a pelican on the seat of he car because she was helping it,' she said. Marney is known in Tuncurry as the 'bird lady' who frequents waterside areas every day to feed birds Another time she dumped a whole bucket of mussels she just bought into the river to 'release them'. Marney was also known to photograph dead and injured animals in public. She was also known to yell a nearby people who she accused of hurting them, and shout at children who chased seagulls. Other locals said she sometimes wore a protective mask in public. However, some residents were in disbelief at her alleged crimes as they only ever heard her saying how much she cared for birds. 'She seemed very genuine about wanting to help the birds and only seemed to be kind to them,' another shopkeeper said. 'It's hard to believe she hurt them on purpose. Maybe she thought she was helping but did more harm than good.' A neighbour said Marney was an animal lover who, while rude, was just 'eccentric'. 'She takes in sick birds, she wouldn't be harming them, she cares for them,' she said. 'She told me off for feeding birds, she gets so wound up if people feed the birds in the street.' Some residents were in disbelief at Marney's alleged crime as they only ever heard her saying how much she cared for birds Police began investigating Marney last year, but she was only arrested after the pelican incident. She allegedly released the bird as officers arrived and it flew away before they could examine it. Officers allege Marney takes injured animals to the vet after torturing them, claiming to have found them in their mangled state, and asks for them to be put down. Marney is facing nine charges of animal cruelty, including dealing in animals, being in charge of an animal and failing to provide veterinary treatment and committing an aggravated act of cruelty on an animal. She was given strict conditional bail to appear at Forster Local Court on Wednesday May 22. Three lions rescued from 'Europe's worst zoo' are set to wake up in a new home - having been sedated and transported to a big cat centre in Holland. The animals were seized from a private animal park in southern Albania where they were malnourished and kept in shocking conditions. They were then housed temporarily at Tirana Zoo amid a bureaucratic wrangle over their future. But charity workers have finally been able to transport them to their new home at Felida Big Cat Centre in the Netherlands. Three lions rescued from 'Europe's worst zoo' are set to wake up in a new home - having been sedated and transported to a big cat centre in Holland. One of the lions is pictured being sedated in Albania A team from the international animal welfare group Four Paws, stands above Lenci, a sedated lion, at Tirana Zoo, Albania yesterday The animals were seized from a private animal park in southern Albania where they were malnourished and kept in shocking conditions. They were then housed temporarily at Tirana Zoo (pictured) in Albania while amid a bureaucratic wrangle over their future Ioana Dungler, the project leader from Four Paws, an international animal welfare group, said experts put the lions in specially equipped vehicles Tuesday and were driving the animals - named Lenci, Bobby and Zhaku - to the Netherlands. 'They are safe to travel,' said veterinarian Marc Goelkel. The lions and eight other animals were removed from a private zoo in western Albania last October due to fears they were malnourished. They had remained in cages at the public Tirana Zoo, which Four Paws also considers unfit, while authorities were in a legal dispute with their former owners. A Four Paws team has taken care of them during this time. Veterinarian Marc Goelkel of the international animal welfare group Four Paws inspects Bobby, a sedated lion, at Tirana Zoo, Albania The team from International animal welfare group Four Paws carry Bobby, a sedated lion at Tirana Zoo, Albania International animal welfare group Four Paws places Zhaku, a sedated lion, into a transfer cage at Tirana Zoo, Albania, on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Zhaku is one of three lions, Lenci, Bobby and Zhaku, at the Tirana Zoo that will be transferred to the Felida Big Cat Centre in the Netherlands for better conditions. (AP Photo/Hektor Pustina) Dungler said the lions were allowed to leave after other nations and animal groups put pressure on Albanian authorities. She also thanked Tirana Zoo for offering a 'temporary solution. Otherwise, the whole rescue operation would not be possible' but said they could not stay there permanently. 'If you see the conditions here, I don't think you need to be an expert to understand that this is not the way to keep wild animals,' said Dungler, noting that Tirana Zoo has small, cement-floor cages. 'The sun, the good care of Felida and the grass will make a difference for them.' Veterinarian Marc Goelkel and the international animal welfare group Four Paws inspect Bobby, a sedated lion, at Tirana Zoo, Albania on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Bobby is one of three lions, Lenci, Bobby and Zhaku, at the Tirana Zoo that will be transferred to the Felida Big Cat Centre in the Netherlands for better conditions. (AP Photo/Hektor Pustina) International animal welfare group Four Paws place Bobby, a sedated lion at Tirana Zoo, Albania, into a transfer cage on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Bobby is one of three lions, Lenci, Bobby and Zhaku, at the Tirana Zoo that will be transferred to the Felida Big Cat Centre in the Netherlands for better conditions. (AP Photo/Hektor Pustina) Albania's Environment Ministry, which has been overseeing the matter, said they had no comment on the transfer. Albania has other wild animals that are being kept privately in unfit places and need 'a completely different zoo profile' to live in, Dungler said, urging Albanian authorities to cooperate on future animal transfers. 'We just need their commitment and the proper legislation,' said Dungler. Four Paws also is assisting Albanian authorities in a feasibility study for an animal sanctuary at Dajti Mountain near Tirana, the capital. Mexico's Economy Department said Tuesday that U.S. consumers could pay 38 per cent to 70 per cent more for tomatoes after the U.S. Commerce Department announced it would re-impose anti-dumping duties on Mexican imports. The Mexican agency said the country exports about $2billion in tomatoes to the United States and supplies about half the tomatoes the U.S. consumes annually. It said that many small- and medium-sized Mexican tomato exporters won't be able to pay the deposits required to export. Tomatoes are Mexico's largest agricultural export after beer and avocadoes, and tomato growing and harvesting provides about 400,000 jobs in Mexico. Mexican tomatoes are displayed for sale at a produce stand in Mercado Medellin in Mexico City in this February 2, 2017 file photo But the deposits required to comply with the 17.5 per cent U.S. tariff would amount to about $350million, money that many Mexican producers don't have. In March the Commerce Department announced it was ending a 2013 suspension agreement in which Mexican growers promised to sell at fair prices, and that it would reinstate the 1996 tariffs. The Mexican government said its growers continue to negotiate with the U.S., and expressed hope that another agreement, like ones that have been in place for 23 years, could be reached. U.S. growers, mainly in Florida, say Mexican tomato producers charge below fair prices. U.S. growers also have a hard time competing with Mexico's extremely low wages. However, the availability of Mexican tomatoes has increased the availability of fresh tomatoes year-round and helped lead to an increase in U.S. tomato consumption from an average of about 12 pounds per person in the 1980s to almost 21 pounds in 2011. Last month researchers at Arizona State University did a study which found that Americans could end up paying as much as 85 per cent more for tomatoes as a result of the new tariffs, according to the Arizona Republic. A Rhode Island school district will begin serving cold sandwiches to students whose families owe lunch money. Warwick Public Schools say they are owed more than $40,000 from outstanding lunch payments and cannot afford to absorb the costs. The new policy will be enacted from next Monday, but outraged parents say the move may lead to children being bullied over their socioeconomic status. 'What a horrible policy. You're basically telling people who can't pay that their kids don't deserve to eat hot food. Not to mention now all the kids with hot lunch will know the other kids families can't pay their bills. Way to single kids out!' one person wrote beneath the announcement on Facebook. From next Monday, Warwick Public Schools will implement a controversial new policy of serving cold sandwiches to students who owe the district lunch money Another simply stated: 'Our schools shouldn't be in the business of shaming children'. Students who have not paid back their lunch debts will be offered a 'a sun butter and jelly sandwich'. Rhode Island public schools are required to provide lunches to students, however it is not legally mandated that they provide hot food, according to NBC. A nutritionist told the network that a jelly sandwich does not meet the definition of a healthy and balanced lunch. Meanwhile, a local restaurant owner raised $4000 in the hopes of donating it to the Warwick school district so that they could serve struggling students more than a cold sandwich. She claimed the district has twice turned her donation down, asserting that it must treat all students equally and cannot single out which students will receive alternative food. At least seven people were killed and 17 injured after a shooting broke out at a prison in Guatemala on Tuesday. National Civil Police said the dead were all prisoners at the Pavon Rehabilitation Model Farm in the municipality of Fraijanes, about 10 miles east of Guatemala City. Prisoners had control of the facility for some eight hours on Tuesday. Gunshots could be heard inside the prison and some inmates could be seen carrying guns. At least seven people were killed and 17 injured after a shooting broke out at a prison in Guatemala on Tuesday. Pictured are two covered bodies in the entrance of the Pavon Rehabilitation Model Farm as authorities tried to take control of the jail Prisoners had control of the facility for some eight hours on Tuesday. The prisoners even carried their own dead to the entrance so authorities could identify them The prisoners even carried their own dead to the entrance so authorities could identify them. Some 1,500 police officers and soldiers were sent to the scene, and regained control by late afternoon, officials said. 'Regarding the number of deceased inmates, there are seven confirmed. That is a preliminary number,' said Carlos Morales, a spokesman for Guatemala's prison system. Some 1,500 police officers and soldiers were sent to the scene, and regained control by late afternoon, officials said Firefighters carry the body of an inmate who died during the shooting on Tuesday Firemen and policemen carry a wounded inmate out of the Pavon prison on Tuesday Prison officials, rescue workers and police mill around several covered bodies that lie at the entrance area of the Pavon Rehabilitation Model Farm after the shooting was contained Mario Cruz, a spokesman for the volunteer firefighters, said eight people were killed and 17 injured. 'So far we have already removed seven bodies and we are waiting for the last one,' he said. Camilo Gilberto Morales, director of Guatemala's penitentiary system, said the gunfire in one part of the prison appeared to have stemmed from an altercation between inmates. 'According to preliminary information it was a confrontation between an inmate in an alleged state of intoxication, shooting at another inmate,' he told local television channel TN23. Inmates inside the Pavon Rehabilitation Model Farm watch special task force police taking position on the perimeter after a shooting broke out inside the jail Cecilio Chacaj of the municipal firefighters said 10 prisoners suffered bullet wounds. An Interior Ministry spokesman said officials were still gathering information about the incident. The Pavon prison, some 10 miles from the Guatemalan capital, houses more than 4,100 inmates, according to official data. It was originally built for 900 people. In 2016, a riot at the same prison left 14 people dead. Special task force police take position outside the Pavon Rehabilitation Model Farm Beverly Hills could become the first city in the United States to ban the sale of tobacco products. The City Council is set to consider the proposal at a meeting on Tuesday night, but the motion is already dividing residents of the ritzy Los Angeles enclave, with some saying it would hurt struggling businesses. Only 28 vendors sell tobacco products in Beverly Hills according to a city staff report, and most are low-earning grocery stores, pharmacies and gas stations. One cashier told Associated Press that his business sells upwards of 50 packets of cigarettes per day, and that the loss of income under a ban would be devastating. While the median price of a home in Beverly Hills is more than $2 million and the median annual income is more than $103,000, about 9 percent of the population actually falls below the poverty line, according to the U.S. Census. Beverly Hills may make history as the first American city to ban the sale of tobacco products Those in favor cite the hazards of smoking and the desire for Beverly Hills to be a healthy city as reasons to ban tobacco sales It also appears that the ban will exclude three swanky cigar lounges, who will still be able to sell tobacco products as they currently do. Meanwhile, other opponents say that the ban could impact tourism, as many visitors from China and Europe are used to smoking wherever they please. Those in favor cite the hazards of smoking and the desire for Beverly Hills to be a healthy city as reasons for prohibiting tobacco sales. California is among at least 25 states that outlaw smoking in workplaces, restaurants and bars. It also has one of the highest cigarette taxes in the country - nearly $3 a pack. Beverly Hills already restricts the sale of menthol cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products. A husband and Japanese wife on vacation lured another visitor from Japan to their Waikiki hotel room and raped her at least four times, according to court documents. Darrell Dorch, 46, and his wife Nagisa, 35, were charged with kidnapping and multiple counts of sexual assault in a Hawaii court, Hawaii News Now reported. Prosecutors said Nagisa invited the 26-year-old victim to their hotel room on May 1, where Darrell prevented her from leaving, punched her multiple times and repeatedly sexually assaulted her over a course of six and a half hours. When the couple's young son arrived, prosecutors said Nagisa helped the woman leave. Scroll down for video Darrell Dorch, age 46 (left), and his Japanese wife Nagisa (right) have been charged with kidnapping and multiple counts of raping a woman, 26, also from Japan, in their Waikiki hotel room in Hawaii According to court documents the couple met the woman on April 30 and invited her to accompany them to dinner that night, which she declined. The couple then invited her to hang out with them at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort pool the next day, which the woman accepted. Nagisa then is said to have asked the woman to go with her to the couple's hotel room to help pick out a bathing suit. After they entered the room, Darrell arrived and the couple became intimate, which made the woman uncomfortable, the documents said. When she tried to leave, Darrell allegedly punched the woman at least 10 times. Nagisa did nothing to help the woman, but instead translated her husband's sexual demands and kissed the woman, police said. After six and a half hours, the couple's son knocked on the door and Darrell went out on the balcony, at which time Nagisa helped the woman leave the room, court documents said. The woman who was allegedly raped at least four times then called the police. Nagisa (pictured in court in Honolulu on Monday) is accused of luring the woman to their hotel room and translating sexual orders from her husband while he raped her four times over the course of six and a half hours before the couple's young son arrived and Nagisa let her leave The assault allegedly occurred at around 1pm local time on May 1, the son arrived at around 7.30pm and the couple were arrested shortly after midnight at the hotel on May 2. Nagisa's lawyer, Walter Rodby, said in court on Monday that she's never been in trouble before, as his client cried while standing alongside him, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported. Nagisa is said to live in Japan with her father and son. She faces charges of first-degree sexual assault and two counts of second-degree sexual assault. State Public Defender Jack Tonaki, whose office represented Darrell in court, declined to comment about the case. Darrell faces charges of four counts first-degree sexual assault and one count of kidnapping. It was not immediately clear where Darrell lives. He said it's too early to tell whether his office will continue to represent him. Bail has been set for Nagisa at $300,000 and for Darrell at $500,000. Former Vice President Joe Biden was left speechless on Tuesday when a female supporter in the audience at a campaign rally in Nevada shouted that he 'can come and kiss me anytime.' Before he officially jumped into the 2020 race, Biden struggled to respond to a complaint from former Nevada politician Lucy Flores that he made her uncomfortable by touching her shoulders and kissing the back of her head before a 2014 campaign event. A few other women made similar claims, though none alleged sexual misconduct. As Biden took the stage in Nevada on Tuesday, a woman in the crowd joked about the allegations, yelling to the former vice president, 'You can come and kiss me anytime, Joe!' Biden laughed, paused, made the sign of the cross and said, 'That's very nice. Thank you.' Former Vice President Joe Biden held a campaign rally in Henderson, Nevada on Tuesday During the rally he appeared flustered when a woman in the audience shouted: 'You can come and kiss me anytime, Joe!' Biden laughed, paused, made the sign of the cross and said, 'That's very nice. Thank you.' Another woman in the crowd, 63-year-old Las Vegas sales representative Sheila Perkins, said she wasn't concerned about allegations from the women or worries from some on the left that the 76-year-old represented the past, not the future, of the Democratic Party. 'I just like him as a person. I think he would do a very good job for our country,' said Perkins, a Democrat. 'He knows the ropes. He's been in the White House before.' A total of seven women have come forward to accuse Biden of making them uncomfortable with unwanted touching. His first accuser, former Nevada politician Lucy Flores, said she was 'mortified' when Biden planted a 'big, slow kiss' on the back of her head as she waited to take the stage at a campaign rally five years ago. Amy Lappos told Connecticut's Hartford Courant newspaper about an incident at a 2009 political fundraiser which, she said, 'wasn't sexual, but he did grab me by the head.' Caitlyn Caruso, 22, said she met Biden at an event devoted to sexual assault at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, where she studied as an undergrad. Caruso, who was 19 years old at the time, said that Biden placed his hand on her thigh while she squirmed in her seat to show how uncomfortable she was, according to The New York Times. She said Biden then gave her a hug and held it 'just a little bit too long'. D.J. Hill, 59, met Biden at a fundraiser in Minneapolis in 2012 with her husband. The couple were posing for a photo with Biden when she claims he put his hand on her shoulder and began to run it down her back. Last month, three women - Vail Kohnert-Yount, Sofie Karasek and Ally Coll - told The Washington Post late Wednesday about instances where they were made to feel uncomfortable when touched by Biden. Biden came under criticism in 2015 for massaging the shoulders of Ash Carter's wife as her husband was sworn in as secretary of defense. Before entering the race, several women said Biden subjected them to unwanted touching. Biden's first accuser, former Nevada politician Lucy Flores, said she was 'mortified' when Biden planted a 'big, slow kiss' on the back of her head' during a campaign rally five years ago Photographs of that incident have circulated online so frequently that Stephanie Carter posted a column on Sunday saying Biden was merely 'a close friend helping someone get through a big day, for which I will always be grateful'. At the Nevada rally on Tuesday, Biden said Tuesday that the Trump administration's removal of protections from deportation for young immigrants and the separation of immigrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border are part of the 'battle for the soul of the country' that spurred his White House bid. Biden, making his first visit as a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate to heavily Latino Nevada, said President Donald Trump uses immigration 'to demonize people.' 'It isn't who we are. We're better than that,' Biden said as he kicked off a rally in the Las Vegas suburb of Henderson in front of about 200 people. But after his speech, as he posed for selfies and took pictures along the rope line, he brushed off the questions of a Latino teenager who asked Biden if, as president, he'd commit to ending U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's practice of issuing detainers for immigrants who are arrested or convicted of a crime while in the country illegally. Biden told the teen that he'd change it but didn't offer specifics, instead moving away as he said, 'Take a look at my website.' His campaign website doesn't list a policy on ICE detainers but instead calls for fixing a broken immigration system, securing the border and addressing 'the root causes of migration' that lead people to leave their home countries. Immigration is a key concern in Nevada, the third early state to cast votes for the Democratic presidential nominee. The Western state is considered the first test of a candidate's appeal before strong labor unions and a diverse population, including about 29 percent who are Latino. Biden also met Tuesday in Las Vegas with immigration activists in a private roundtable, according to his campaign Instagram account. Biden's midday speech at a painters and craft workers union hall drew plenty of applause at he called for rebuilding 'the backbone of this country, the middle class,' and strengthening unions. Amy Lappos said she felt uncomfortable when Joe Biden touched her at a 2009 political fundraiser. Caitlyn Caruso said Biden touched her thigh and gave her a long hug at an event devoted to sexual assault at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas Former Defense Secretary Ashton Carter's wife says this photo of Biden touching her shoulder was 'misleading' and that he was helping her get through the nervous occasion 'Folks, they've declared war on labor's house for a long time now. If I'm president of the United States, it will stop!' he said to loud cheers. Although Biden launched his campaign with an explicit appeal to labor, he's not meeting during his Nevada visit with the 60,000-member strong Culinary Union. The union, which represents bartenders, housekeepers and other workers in the city's famed casinos, is one of the most powerful endorsements in Nevada Democratic politics. Biden spoke at the union's meeting hall last year as he campaigned for Democratic candidates in the state. Instead of bringing his presidential campaign message about middle-class workers before the Culinary Union, he was expected Tuesday night to hold a fundraiser with MGM Resorts CEO Jim Murren - whose company sits on the other side of the negotiating table from Culinary. The fundraiser at a Las Vegas Strip luxury hotel comes on the heels of an announcement late last month that MGM Resorts, the state's largest private employer, expects to cut about 1,000 nonunion jobs by June. D. Taylor, the former Culinary Union president and current president of the union's national affiliate Unite Here, sent a letter to Murren last month warning of a corporation's responsibility to keep good jobs in communities and cautioning that the union would 'not stand by silently if the benefits of casinos and casino jobs are imperiled by the financial engineering' of investors. The Culinary Union had no comment about Biden's fundraiser Tuesday. Former President Barack Obama's memoir following his tenure in the White House is set to be released as Democrats campaign for the party's nomination in 2020, it was revealed Tuesday. Penguin Random House publishing company began alerting foreign partners, among others, about the status of Obama's book, without giving an update on the launch date, according to a person familiar with the matter. The release of the former president's post-White House memoir is tricky as it could disrupt the primary election. It would thrust Obama back into the spotlight just as Democratic voters are choosing a presidential nominee to likely face-off against Trump in 2020. Obama has been writing the book himself, and hand wrote the first draft on legal pads, which was a technique he often used for numerous White House speeches and his first best-seller, 'Dreams from My Father,' which was published in 1995. Former President Barack Obama's post-White House memoir is no longer expected to be published in 2019, but instead in the throws of the 2020 Democratic primary race Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama signed a deal with Penguin Random House publishing in 2017 The timing of Obama's book release is tricky as Democrats look to the former president for guidance on who to support in the 2020 primary competition. Obama declined to endorse his former Vice President Joe Biden, or anyone else so far Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama signed lucrative book deals in 2017 as the ended their time in the White House. Michelle's memoir, 'Becoming' was released last November 2018 and quickly became one of the most popular political memoirs in history, with more than 10 million copies sold worldwide. The Obamas signed with Penguin Random House in 2017. While the financial terms of the agreement were not released, the former president's book was expected to garner the largest advance for any ex-president. The previous record is believed to be $15 million for Bill Clinton's 2004 memoir, 'My Life.' Obama's book launch could prompt a fresh discussion of his legacy and put him on the spot about the candidates hoping to build on it. The former president has made it clear he has no plans to play a role in the Democratic presidential primary, including declining to endorse his vice president, Joe Biden, or any other candidate. However, even more than three years after leaving office, Obama's weigh-in on the campaign will be paid close attention to for signs of which candidates he favors. The Democratic primary field is already crowded, with 21 campaigns underway, and several others are still considering entering the contest. Biden has emerged as a clear front-runner among registered Democratic voters, sometimes trading off with independent Senator from Vermont, Bernie Sanders. Nearly 52-years since her lifeless body was found in an elevator, police believe they've finally found Susan Galvins killer. On July 13, 1967, the 20-year-old administrative assistant was found dead in a parking garage elevator in the Seattle Center, having been strangled and raped. For more than 50 years her death continued to baffle investigators as a number of leads, eyewitness accounts and potential suspect profiles continuously led detectives to dead ends. One prospective culprit - a professional clown at the Center who had been seen with Galvin just a few days before she died, before quitting his job days after he death - was never charged for lack of evidence. Susan Galvin was found dead in an elevator in the Seattle Center on July 13, 1967 The 20-year-old was first reported missing after failing to turn up for a night-shift on July 10, 1967, before her body was found three days later by an attendant in the parking garage of the sprawling events center, on 300 Mercer Street The clown, found in Utah in 2016, was investigated as part of the cold cases re-opening three years ago, but a DNA test absolved him of any culpability and the trail went cold once more. However, investigators found an unexpected breakthrough last summer when the Seattle PD applied the same scientific tools and lines of inquiry to Galvins murder as those used to solve the notorious Golden State Killer case. Officers provided the Virginia-based Parabon NanoLabs with the killers five decade-old DNA, where scientists worked to create a family tree for the killer, using a public genealogy website database. Ultimately, the lab identified potential suspect as Frank Wypych, a married Seattle man and former soldier who died of complications from diabetes in 1987. Seattle police exhumed his remains from a cemetery earlier this year to collect DNA and confirmed it matched that collected from Galvin's clothing. They're now looking into whether he may have killed anyone else while stationed in New York, Alaska and Germany while in the Army. It's the oldest case where genetic genealogy has helped to identify the suspect, CeCe Moore from Parabon said Tuesday. It's amazing the DNA was still viable. The original investigators who collected the crime scene evidence did such a great job, long before they could even have imagined what could be done with DNA. Frank Wypych, a married Seattle man and former soldier who died of complications from diabetes in 1987, was identified as the killer from DNA at the crime scene Seattle police exhumed Wypych's remains from a cemetery earlier this year to collect DNA and confirmed it matched that collected from Galvin's clothing An administrative assistant of the Seattle Police Department, Galvin (left)was found dead in a parking garage elevator in the Seattle Center, having been strangled and raped. According to police, Wypych (right) was known to spend much of his free time at the Seattle Center According to police, Wypych grew up in Ballard, Seattle and served in the US army for a short time in the early 1960s. He was 26-years-old and a married father when Galvins body was discovered. Working as a general laborer and a security guard, Wypych was also known to visit the Seattle Center regularly in his spare time. He and his wife divorced in 1971, and he was convicted of larceny the same year - his only criminal conviction. Larry Galvin, the younger brother of Susan, thanked the Seattle Police Department for their tenacious investigation that has provided his family with a sense of closure Wypych served nine months in jail and was arrested for a weapons offense in Seattle in 1975. The department said it no longer had records of the offense, but relatives told investigators he had been impersonating a police officer and making traffic stops in uniform, armed with a gun. Galvin, on the other hand, was a civilian records clerk for the Seattle Police Department. She lived adjacent to the Seattle Center and was also said to have spent much of her free time roaming its grounds. The 20-year-old was first reported missing after failing to turn up for a night-shift on July 10, 1967, before her body was found three days later by an attendant in the parking garage of the sprawling events center, on 300 Mercer Street. The garage had been closed for several days and provided access to an elevated walkway used by Galvin during her commute to work. Fingerprints were lifted from the scene and autopsy evidence samples were taken from Galvins clothing before being entered into the police departments evidence files, where they would remain for several decades. Seattle homicide detectives first re-reviewed Galvins case in 2002, and submitted several items found at the crime scene to a laboratory in the hope of recovering the killers DNA. But despite recovering traces of the suspects semen from Galvins underwear, the profile failed to garner any matches on the FBIs DNA database. According to police, Wypych grew up in Ballard, Seattle and served in the US army for a short time in the early 1960s. He and his wife divorced in 1971, and he was convicted of larceny the same year - his only criminal conviction Seattle homicide detectives first re-reviewed Galvins case in 2002, and submitted several items found at the crime scene to a laboratory in the hope of recovering the killers DNA. They managed to recover the her killer's semen from her underwear, revealed to be Wypych's 17 years later However 17 years on, the use of the public genealogy databases - which contain DNA information from customers of companies like 23andMe and Ancestry.com - to solve decades-old crimes have taken off in the past year, since investigators in California revealed they used the method to identify and arrest Golden State Killer suspect Joseph DeAngelo. DeAngelo, a former police officer, is accused of having murdered at least a dozen people and raped 50 in the 1970s and '80s. At least 40 other cases have been solved since then, including five in Washington State. Among them were the killing of a young Canadian couple in 1987 and the rape and murder of a 26-year-old woman in 1994. It was through the use of the same techniques that revealed the Wypych to be Galvin's killer, on April 12 this year. Seattle Homicide Detective Rolf Norton also credited the full co-operation of the Wypych family as another deciding factor in the cases conclusion, after a relative of the accused agreed to under-go a DNA test to provide a comparison to the suspects sample. The use of the public genealogy databases to solve cold cases has taken off in the past year, since investigators in California revealed that they used the method to identify and arrest Golden State Killer suspect Joseph DeAngelo (pictured: Seattle Police homicide Detective Rolf Norton, left, talks to reporters near a photo of Susan Galvin) The family of Frank Wypych has not done anything wrong and therefore I would consider them peripheral victims of this whole incident, Norton said in a Tuesday press conference. Larry Galvin, the younger brother of Susan, thanked the Seattle Police Department for their tenacious investigation that has now resulted in his family receiving a sense of closure. But he insisted there was one mystery that genealogy DNA wouldnt help to answer -preventing his family from ever fully moving on from the tragedy. The loss was felt mostly by our mother, who did her best to keep us near her, Larry said in a written statement. It would be hard for her to lose another child. For her the question was not necessarily who, but why. We children were young and resilient. We found our own ways to cope; as the years passed, we scattered to the winds. 52 years later we learn the who, but still have no clear understanding as to the why, Larry continued. There will always be that lingering question. A $50,000 reward has been offered to find a malicious cyclist hater who has been sabotaging roads and bike tracks with tacks. About 1,000 punctured bicycle tyres have been reported in north-east Melbourne in the past five years and some cyclists have been left with serious injuries. The tacks have been deliberately dumped or placed on and around Yarra Boulevard, Kew since 2014. The tacks have been deliberately dumped or placed on and around Yarra Boulevard (pictured), in Kew in Melbourne's north-east since 2014 Police estimate the punctures have cost cyclists thousands of dollars in repair costs. 'Our detectives are investigating serious offences including conduct endangering life, criminal damage and aggravated littering,' Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir said in a statement. 'The tacks also pose (dangers) to all road users, including pedestrians and those walking with pets as they can cause significant injury. It simply has to stop. 'We're hoping this $50,000 reward will lead to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who've been endangering cyclists' and pedestrians' lives for years.' Two mobile CCTV units will also be used along Yarra Boulevard in a bid to catch the culprit. Pamela Anderson has revealed she fears Julian Assange will be assassinated if he is extradited to the US, hours after visiting him in Belmarsh high-security jail. The former Baywatch star, 51, said she was 'deeply concerned about his well being' and does not think the Wikileaks founder will 'survive it'. Asked by TMZ Live if she was worried someone might try and take the imprisoned 47-year-old's life if he's taken to the United States, the actress replied: 'or even where he is'. Pamela Anderson (pictured left yesterday outside Belmarsh Prison) has revealed she fears Julian Assange (right in April) will be assassinated if he is extradited to the US, hours after visiting him in jail Ms Anderson visited Assange at the imposing jail in Woolwich, south east London, yesterday after he was jailed last month for breaching bail conditions. After their first meeting in over a year, Ms Anderson said: 'Just seeing him today for the first time, I just know it's very urgent. 'It's really important that people really know who he is and that we don't allow him to be extradited because I don't believe he'll be save in America's hands.' Ms Anderson added: 'We're talking about saving somebody's life. We need to get as much support as we can for this person who is just trying to tell us the truth.' US actress Pamela Anderson leaves Belmarsh Prison in south-east London, accompanied by WikiLeaks editor Kristinn Hrafnsson after she visited WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange Wikileaks co-founder Julian Assange was sentenced to 50 week in prison for breaching his bail conditions. He is also fighting extradition to the United States where he is wanted for questioning over the activities of Wikileaks US actress Pamela Anderson speaks to the media as she leaves Belmarsh Prison in south-east London, after she visited WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange Wearing high heels and a shawl - with a politically worded pattern - draped over her, Ms Anderson met Assange with WikiLeaks editor Kristinn Hrafnsson yesterday. The wording on the cape was not explained but 'free speech', 'no man should have to be on his own' and 'Cromwell' could be seen printed on it. Following her visit, she said: 'He does not deserve to be in a supermax prison. He has never committed a violent act. He is an innocent person.' She revealed that he has no access to information, is 'really cut off from everybody' and has not been able to speak to his children. Baywatch star's quotes in full The 51-year-old said: 'Obviously it's been very difficult to see Julian here and to make our way through the prison to get to him was quite shocking and difficult. 'He does not deserve to be in a super-max prison. He has never committed a violent act. 'He's an innocent person. He hasn't (got) access to a library, a computer, any information. 'He's really cut off from everybody. He hasn't been able to speak to his children. 'Public support is very important. Fundraising is very important. 'He needs all the support he can get. Justice will depend on public support and he's a good man, he's an incredible person. 'I love him. I can't imagine what he's been going through, and it was good to see him - great to see him - but this is just misrule of law in operation. 'It is absolute shock that he has not been able to get out of his cell. It's been one month. 'It's going to be a long fight, and he deserves our support. He needs our support. 'So whatever anybody can do - maybe write to him, encourage him - he's appreciative of any support that he's received. 'He hasn't received too much yet in the way of letters, but I know people have been writing and it's a process for him to have any kind of communication. 'It's very difficult, and we just have to keep fighting, because it's unfair. 'He's sacrificed so much to bring the truth out and we deserve the truth, and that's all I can say. 'I'm sorry, I feel sick. I feel nauseous.' Advertisement 'He is a good man, he is an incredible person. I love him, I can't imagine what he has been going through,' Ms Anderson added. 'It was great to see him, but this is just misrule of law in operation. It is absolute shock that he has not been able to get out of his cell. 'It is going to be a long fight and he deserves our support. He needs our support, so whatever anyone can do - maybe write to him, encourage him,' Ms Anderson added. 'We just have to keep fighting, because it is unfair. He has sacrificed so much to bring the truth out and we deserve the truth.' Revealing she felt sick and nauseous, Ms Anderson appeared to wipe her eyes and turn away from the press. Asked about the lengthy prison sentence Assange could face if he is extradited to the US, Ms Anderson said: 'We need to save his life. That's how serious it is.' Standing by her side, WikiLeaks editor Kristinn Hrafnsson added: 'It is a question of life and death - that's how serious it is.' After what he called their 'first social visit', Mr Hrafnsson said they were 'both quite emotional', adding that it was shocking to see his friend, a journalist and an intellectual, 'sitting in a high-security prison'. 'This is not justice. This is an abomination. Someone said that you could judge the civilisation of a society by visiting its prisons,' he added. 'Frankly, I have to say from my heart that this visit did not reflect well on the society here. This must end, this will be a fight.' Assange, 47, was sentenced to 50 weeks' jail for breaching bail when he failed to surrender to police in 2012. The Wikileaks founder was convicted of the bail breach after entering the Ecuadorian embassy and claiming political asylum while wanted over allegations of sexual offences in Sweden, which he denies. Baywatch star Ms Anderson has previously spoken out in support of Assange and met him on several occasions when he lived at the Ecuadorean embassy in London. Assange is also fighting extradition to the United States where he is wanted for questioning over the activities of WikiLeaks. Mr Hrafnsson said Assange is in 'general' solitary confinement because he mostly spends 23 hours a day in his cell, adding that the situation was 'unacceptable'. Speaking after a court hearing last week, he said: 'We are worried about Julian Assange. We are hearing that the situation in Belmarsh Prison is appalling because of austerity and cutbacks. Pamela Anderson delivers a Pret lunch to Julian Assange at Embassy of Ecuador on October 15, 2016. The Baywatch star visited Assange in Belmarsh yesterday 'For the last weeks since he was arrested, he has spent 23 out of 24 hours a day in his cell most of the time. 'That is what we call in general terms solitary confinement. That's unacceptable. That applies to most of the prisoners in that appalling facility. It is unacceptable that a publisher is spending time in that prison.' United Nations rights experts have voiced concern about the 'disproportionate' sentence given to the WikiLeaks founder as well as his detention in a high-security prison. The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention said in a statement on Friday it was 'deeply concerned' about the 'disproportionate' sentence imposed on Assange. 'The Working Group is of the view that violating bail is a minor violation that, in the United Kingdom, carries a maximum sentence of 12 months in prison. 'It is worth recalling that the detention and the subsequent bail of Mr Assange in the UK were connected to preliminary investigations initiated in 2010 by a prosecutor in Sweden. 'It is equally worth noting that that prosecutor did not press any charges against Mr Assange and that in 2017, after interviewing him in the Ecuadorian embassy in London, she discontinued investigations and brought an end to the case. 'The Working Group is further concerned that Mr Assange has been detained since 11 April 2019 in Belmarsh prison, a high-security prison, as if he were convicted for a serious criminal offence. 'This treatment appears to contravene the principles of necessity and proportionality envisaged by the human rights standards.' The Working Group has previously stated that Assange was arbitrarily detained in the Ecuadorean embassy and should have had his liberty restored. Amphetamine use in New South Wales has skyrocketed over the past decade with one suburb in particular seeing meth use rise by as much as 1000 per cent. A special inquiry into the drug, commissioned by Premier Gladys Berejiklian, on Tuesday revealed the scourge is rapidly taking hold of several suburbs. The NSW government set up the special commission of inquiry in late 2018 to examine the use and impact of crystal methamphetamines and other illicit stimulants such as MDMA. Crime figures presented to the inquiry revealed possession remains the highest in Sydney's CBD and outer suburbs, with 250 incidences per 100,000 people last year. Amphetamine use in New South Wales has skyrocketed over the past decade with one suburb in particular seeing meth use rise by as much as 1000 per cent The inquiry revealed Coffs Harbour, on the north coast of NSW, and Grafton, in the Northern Rivers region, had the most alarming increase in drug possession. Both locations had an above average rate of about 120 incidents per 100,000 people, with rates skyrocketing by 1,000 per cent over the last decade. Coffs Harbour recorded a spike in possession by almost 1000 per cent - from about 15 incidents in 2009 to 163 in 2018. 'The increase in Coffs Harbour is remarkable, similarly in [the state's] far west ... where there's been a 700 per cent increase, from 31 to 245 incidents,' acting executive director at the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research, Jackie Fitzgerald told the inquiry. Ms Fitzgerald said the Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven, in the southeast coast, had recorded a 500 per cent increase in the rate of possession. While the rate of possession in the Central Coast and Hunter Valley region, north of Sydney, had recorded a 400 per cent spike in the last decade, she said. Crime figures presented to the inquiry revealed possession remains the highest in the CBD and outer suburbs, with 250 incidences per 100,000 people last year The inquiry revealed Coffs Harbour (pictured), and Grafton, in the Northern Rivers region, had the most alarming increase in drug possession Director of clinical quality and safety at the Centre for Population Health, Michelle Cretikos, said men were more likely to be hospitalised for amphetamine use. However, Indigenous Australians were found to be seven times more likely to be hospitalised than non-Indigenous people, she said. National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre director Michael Farrell told the inquiry there were some 1500 deaths recorded over the past decade involving methamphetamines. Coronial data shows the average victim is male and 37 years old. Over half have a history of injecting drugs, Prof Farrell told the hearing. Some 73 per cent of people found guilty of amphetamine possession in 2018 had a prior conviction in the past five years with 20 per cent having a prior conviction for domestic violence. Almost 25 per cent had previously served a prison sentence. The Southern Highlands (pictured) and Shoalhaven, in the southeast coast, also recorded a 500 per cent increase in the rate of possession The inquiry also found amphetamine possession statewide had risen by 250 per cent over the past decade with 1500 users dying from the drug An analysis of admissions relating to amphetamine use also found the most common secondary diagnosis was other 'substance use', such as cannabis and sedatives. The inquiry also found amphetamine possession statewide had risen by 250 per cent over the past decade with 1500 users dying from the drug. Director of the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre Professor Michael Farrell said out of those deaths, the average person was a 37-year-old male. He said the death rate from amphetamine use had doubled between 2009 and 2015. 'We've gone through every coronial report and found 59 per cent of the location of deaths were in metropolitan areas but 41 per cent were in rural or regional areas,' he said. The inquiry will visit Lismore and Nowra later this month, before Dubbo and East Maitland in June, and Broken Hill in July. Queensland's Gold Coast hinterland has been outed as the anti-vaccination capital of Australia. Nearly 15 per cent of children who live in the sleepy holiday region haven't been immunised and aren't protected against potentially deadly diseases. North Richmond in rural NSW was the second worst offender on the list, which used new data compiled by the 2018 Australian Immunisation Register. The data, funded by the federal health department, compared the vaccination rates of five-year-old children between January and December last year. Queensland's Gold Coast hinterland has been outed as the anti-vaccination capital of Australia (pictured, a graphic depiction of the rates of the top 10 hotspots of anti-vaccinations in the country) The Sunshine Coast Hinterland rated the second-highest anti-vaccination rate in the state at 11.13, followed by Surfers Paradise on 11.07 per cent, Inner Brisbane on 10.36 per cent and Maroochydore on 10.12 per cent. Richmond Valley in northern NSW scored the highest anti-vaccination rate in the state with only 12.72 per cent. In the northern part of Sydney's east, which includes ritzy suburbs like Bondi and Vaucluse, 11.35 per cent of children did not get a vaccination. Well-heeled north Sydney suburb Mosman followed closely on 11 per cent. Inner Sydney scored a high of 10.54 per cent while the southern part of the eastern suburbs, like Maroubra and Coogee clocked in at 10.5 per cent. The western part of Stonnington in Melbourne, scored the highest rate in Victoria with only 10.24 per cent. Top 10 anti-vaccination hotspots in Australia 1. Gold Coast Hinterland, QLD (13.33%) 2. Richmond Valley, NSW (12.72%) 3. Sydney Eastern Suburbs, NSW (11.35%) 4. Sunshine Coast Hinterland, QLD (11.13%) 5. Surfers Paradise, QLD (11.07%) 6. North Sydney - Mosman, NSW (11%) 7. South Perth, WA (10.84) 8. Inner Sydney, NSW (10.54) 9. Brisbane, QLD (10.36) 10. Stonnington - west, VIC (10.24) Source: 2018 Australian Immunisation Register Advertisement Melbourne city came in next with 10.24 per cent, then Port Phillip on 8.79 per cent, Manningham West on 7.49 per cent and Creswick-Daylesford and Ballan on 6.4. The Northern Territory managed to do relatively better, with its highest rate still below the 10 percentile. Darwin City recorded a rate of 9.17 per cent; Alice Springs followed on 7.6 per; then Palmerston on 7.06 per cent. University of Sydney associate professor Julie Leask reiterated the importance of getting vaccinated. 'It is vitally important that children are fully vaccinated on time and it's important that adults get vaccines as well,' she told Daily Mail Australia. Ms Leask explained that two contributing factors could explain immunisation rates in the country. 'There are areas where more people actively reject some or all of the vaccines, and there are areas where people are not able to get to their vaccination appointment on time, because of practical or logistical factors.' 'Parents might have an alternative belief system that might not be compatible with vaccinations. 'Other parents are just trying to be intensive in the upbringing of their children, and you do see that in more wealthy and regionally alternative areas.' She said to increase immunisation rates, experts needed to look at the topic as a whole picture. 'While there are people who actively refuse, there are other factors that need to be looked at. When you have two or more children, there's a likelihood you won't be up to date with all your children just because of time constraints.' University of Sydney associate professor Julie Leask reiterated the importance of getting vaccinated (stock image) Tonya Fea, 47, of Jefferson Township, New Jersey, has been arrested for allegedly drowning a 10-week-old puppy in a local pond, according to local authorities A New Jersey woman arrested in the case of a 10-week-old puppy who was found dead in a weighted cage says the animal died before she threw the cage into a local pond. Tonya Fea, 47, of Jefferson Township was arrested on Tuesday and charged with two counts of third degree animal cruelty and one count of defiant trespass. Feas arrest was made during the course of an investigation by the West Milford Police Department, the Passaic County Prosecutors Office announced. If convicted, she could face a maximum of five years in state prison for each count of animal cruelty. Fea told detectives that while she did throw the cage into the Greenwood Pond in West Milford, the dog was already dead when she did so, according to the North Jersey Record. Initially, it was not immediately clear whether the puppy died from an injury to the head from being struck with glass ice bucket, or whether it drowned in the cage in the water. But an autopsy performed on the Golden Retriever determined that the dog died of asphyxiation caused by drowning. The body of the Golden Retriever was found last Tuesday by an animal rescue worker, inside a cage that was being weighed down in the water by the glass container. Authorities said that after news of the puppy's death became public, they were flooded with tips pointing to Fea as the suspect. WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT Last Tuesday, a 10-week old puppy was found in a crate submerged in water in a New Jersey pond (pictured). Fea reportedly told detectives that she threw the caged dog into a pond, though she says the animal was dead when she did so The puppy, which The Last Resort Rescue has named Jenny, was found with pee pads stuck to her head, with a small amount of blood on them, in a crate containing a glass ice bucket (pictured) Detectives contacted the West Milford Animal Hospital. Officials there told investigators that Fea and her husband were longtime clients. On the day the dog died, Fea had scheduled an appointment with a vet at the hospital to see her, but she never showed up, according to authorities. After her arrest, Fea was released from police custody. She is due to appear in court on May 22. The rescue officer with The Last Resort Rescue said the pup, which the Passaic County nonprofit organization has named Jenny, was 'ice cold' and soaking wet when found, Fox News reported. The rescue offered a reward of $7,000, amassed through Facebook donations for anyone who provided information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for Jenny's death. The public outcry was so intense that donations kept pouring in. As of Tuesday evening, the organization raised more than $12,000. West Milford Animal Hospital told police that Fea and her husband were longtime clients. She was due to bring the puppy in for an exam on the day the animal died, but Fea she never showed, hospital officials told police On Facebook, The Last Resort Rescue said it is working to locate the two individuals whose tips led to Fea's arrest. The group said that it will pay the reward after there is a conviction in the case. The post read: 'ATTENTION EVERYONE!! SHE HAS BEEN ARRESTED!!!!' It continued: 'I just spoke to the detective charge of the case and I'm happy to report that the woman who allegedly murdered this puppy has been arrested and charged... 'But sickening that our worst fears were confirmed, the official autopsy report confirm that drowning was the cause of death. 'Jenny was ALIVE and was intentionally drowned by this monster. 'They have applied the maximum charges BUT We ALL need to keep sharing and make sure our voices are heard when it comes time for sentencing!! On Facebook, The Last Resort Rescue said it is working to locate the two individuals whose tips led to Fea's arrest. The group said that it will pay the reward after there is a conviction in the case 'We have asked the investigators to put us in contact with the two people responsible for seeing our post and calling in the tips that led them to making this arrest. 'Once shes convicted we can give them their rightful Reward $. 'Thank you to those individuals, and EVERYONE who has shared, supported and donated to the reward !! 'IT WORKED!!!! TOGETHER, WE DID IT!!!' The puppy was found with pee pads stuck to her head with a small amount of blood on them, along with the ice bucket inside the crate, the rescue said. After posting about the puppy, people starting asking The Last Resort Rescue if they could contribute to a reward for information about the puppy's death, so the group started collecting donations over Facebook. 'Anything donated on the link attached to this post will be applied directly to increase the reward amount,' the group said in a Facebook post on April 30. 'If no one comes forward we will apply these funds in her honor to our efforts in saving other puppies in need of rescue.' After posting about the puppy last week, people starting asking The Last Resort Rescue if they could contribute to a reward for information about the puppy's death, so the group started collecting donations over Facebook WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT The puppy's body was found in a crate submerged in Greenwood Pond in West Milford A polar blast has caused temperatures to plunge in Australia as an Antarctic chill makes its way across the country. The cold front is one of two moving over Australia this week, bringing icy conditions and temperatures 10C lower than average. A sharp drop in temperature was felt as one of the fronts swept across the south-east on Tuesday. Ski resort village Mt Buller was sunny with clear skies on Tuesday morning but the conditions dramatically changed as grey skies, fog and below-freezing temperatures rolled in by Wednesday morning. A second, stronger cold front from Antarctica will linger well into the weekend, with temperatures steadily falling in Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart towards the end of the week - dropping to below freezing in Canberra. Sydney fell to just 4C overnight, with the city's south-western suburbs the most affected by the cold. Scroll down for video Slide me Ski resort village Mt Buller was sunny with clear skies on Tuesday morning before gloomy conditions dramatically set in, as grey skies, fog and below freezing temperatures rolled in by Wednesday morning Temperatures at Mt Buller plummeted from 8.1C on Tuesday morning to -0.2C on Wednesday. A Bureau of Meteorology spokesperson said the cold temperatures could be a threat to livestock in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. 'Livestock only need to get a bit wet and the winds will cause them a lot of trouble,' the spokesperson told Yahoo News. Temperatures will drop to a freezing -5C in the Australian Alps on Saturday, with snow forecast for Perisher Valley, Cabramurra and Thredbo. Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Sarah Scully said the chill is expected to blanket most of the continent. 'Very cold air mass is moving from the Antarctic right over the country,' Ms Scully said. 'Temperatures will be 8C to 10C lower than the average, even in the Northern Territory and Queensland. 'It's a cold snap affecting the whole country, it's a big one. The effects will be felt right into the weekend.' The stronger cold front will bring snow to Victoria at elevations above 800m. A sharp drop in temperature was felt as one of the fronts swept across the south-east on Tuesday Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Sarah Scully said the chill is expected to blanket most of the continent Up to 20cm of snow is expected to fall at ski resorts in the alps on the border of NSW and Victoria. Sydney will have a high of 21C on Wednesday, with mostly sunny conditions and winds up to 35km/h. Meanwhile, Melbourne will have showers and a high of 17C and Brisbane will enjoy clear skies and reach a maximum of 27C. Perth will reach 23C on Wednesday with light winds and clouds. Showers are expected on Wednesday in Adelaide, with temperatures reaching 17C. Hobart will have a chance of late showers and a high of 18C on Wednesday, while Canberra will reach 14C before shivering through a cold night, dropping to 2C. Darwin will hit 33C and be mostly sunny on Wednesday. The cold front (pictured centre in white) caused temperatures to drop across the south-east Temperatures at Mt Buller plummetted from 8.1C on Tuesday morning to -0.2C on Wednesday Youths suspected of crimes could be spared prosecution under controversial proposals outlined by Britains human rights watchdog. The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has called on the Government to lift the age of criminal responsibility from ten to 14. Under the proposals, children in England and Wales could not be arrested and charged for offences until they were significantly older. This would mean that youngsters involved in crimes as serious as murder could not be arrested, charged or dealt with by the courts and would instead have to be managed through the social care system. The proposals mean ten-year-olds Jon Venables (pictured) and Robert Thompson, who tortured and killed two-year-old James Bulger, in 1993, would have been spared prosecution The proposals mean ten-year-olds Jon Venables and Robert Thompson, who tortured and killed two-year-old James Bulger, in 1993, would have been spared prosecution. They were found guilty that year making them the youngest convicted murderers in modern British history. But the EHRC said Britains current age of criminal responsibility, which was set at ten in 1963, is lower than in many European countries and inconsistent with accepted international standards. In a report submitted to the United Nations to review, the watchdog claimed criminalising children at such a young age could have a detrimental impact on their wellbeing and development and risks making them more likely to re-offend as adults. In 2017-18, a total of 47 ten-year-olds and 229 children aged 11 received a youth caution or court conviction. David Isaac, chairman of the commission, said: Increasing the age of criminal responsibility is crucial to stop very young children being exposed to the harmful effects of detention and protect their future. The watchdog said the Government should instead introduce therapeutic, welfare-based approaches for dealing with the harmful behaviour of children. If the detention of children is necessary, it should be in settings where they are supported by highly skilled and specialist staff, it added. The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is expected later this year to recommend the minimum age of criminal responsibility should be raised to 14. Lord McNally, a former Liberal Democrat justice minister, faced a major backlash when he proposed similar plans in 2014 This is despite Lord McNally, a former Liberal Democrat justice minister, facing a major backlash when he proposed similar plans in 2014. Critics of the idea, who include James Bulgers mother Denise, said victims would be let down if juveniles did not face court for serious offences. The latest calls come as the age of criminal responsibility in Scotland is in the process of being raised from eight to 12. Meanwhile the age is set at 13 in France, and 14 in Germany, Italy and Spain. In the United States, the minimum age for federal crimes is 11. But the Ministry of Justice said setting the age of criminal responsibility at ten years old allowed for early intervention in a childs life, and helped to prevent re-offending. An MoJ spokesman said: Younger children who offend are often diverted from the justice system or dealt with out of court. In the last decade, there has been an 86 per cent reduction in the number of under-18-year-olds entering the youth justice system. In March, the Mail told how a girl of eight took a kitchen knife into her primary school in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, and threatened to stab an officer in the heart when police turned up. She was also said to have brandished the weapon at teachers. Iranian judges are to review the case against jailed British-Iranian mother Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, they announced yesterday. But her husband Richard said he feared they may increase her sentence, rather than allow her to go free, after she was arrested for spying. He said he believed the reference was to a second case brought against Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe in the wake of Boris Johnsons gaffe. Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, pictured with her daughter Gabriella, is being denied medical treatment for a mystery illness, her husband claims The former foreign secretary accidentally said the charity worker had been a journalist in Iran - which she hadnt. The Iranians used the excuse to bring a second case against her which could double her five-year sentence, of which she has served three years. Mr Ratcliffe said he read the announcement as a warning shot of a potential escalation of her case as relations between the UK and Iran falter. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt ratcheted up tensions last month when he extended diplomatic protection to the imprisoned mother-of-one. My reading of the wording is that it is a warning shot - a warning of a potential escalation, he said. They are referring to the Boris case, in which they threatened her with a double sentence, though it depends on what the exact charges are if they go ahead with it. The key issue is what the UK does - if it really happens, reopening the second court case would be a real slap in the face for diplomatic protection. And the UK would need to respond for its protection to be credible. Mr Johnson caused outrage last year when he suggested Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe had been teaching journalists in the country, which her family said was false. He was accused of risking an additional five years being added to her sentence as a result. Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe was arrested with her infant daughter Gabriella on April 3, 2016 at Tehrans Imam Khomeini Airport as she prepared to board a plane back to the UK after visiting relatives. Richard Ratcliffe, husband of Nazanin Zaghari Ratcliffe, who is detained in Iran, said his wife's symptoms have steadily worsened since she was recalled to Tehrans notorious Evin prison after a temporary three-day release in August The 40-year-old is serving a five-year sentence in Tehrans notorious Evin Prison. The trial by a Revolutionary Court in Tehran was widely condemned as unfair and she strenuously denies the charges against her. Mr Hunt granted Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe diplomatic protection last month. But Tehran refuses to acknowledge her dual nationality and said the UKs actions were illegal. Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffes family went to the judiciary twice yesterday but were told no one was available to speak to them. An FCO spokesman said: 'The treatment of all British-Iranians detained in Iran, including Mrs Zaghari-Ratcliffe, is a priority for the Government. 'We remain concerned about all of our consular cases and raise them at every level and every opportunity.' Detectives have finally identified a woman shot dead in cold blood in California 37 years ago and named her killer after using new DNA techniques which helped catch the Golden State Killer. The woman, formerly known only as Sheep's Flat Jane Doe after the Lake Tahoe hiking trail where she was found, was identified as Mary Silvani. Detectives said Silvani was born in Pontiac, Michigan, in 1948 and attended school in Detroit before moving to California, where she was killed. They also named her murderer as James Richard Curry, who was born in Texas in 1946 and was jailed in the state for robbery. A woman shot dead on a hiking trail in Lake tahoe and known for 37 years as 'Sheep's Flat Jane Doe' has been identified as May Silvani, from Michigan (left in the 1980s, right in an artist's impression of how she would look today) Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam said Curry was then arrested in California in 1983 when he confessed to a 1982 murder in Santa Clara and two killings in the San Jose area in January 1983. However, he killed himself in jail before he could be brought to trial. Curry also was a suspect in a fourth murder in the Santa Clara area but that victim's remains were never found, authorities said. Police also identified Mary's killer as James Curry, a Texas native who confessed to three murders but killed himself while awaiting trial For decades, the victim was known only as 'Sheep's Flat Jane Doe,' named after the popular hiking trail where her body was found with gunshot wounds near Tahoe's north shore just off the Mount Rose Highway above Incline Village. At a news conference in Reno on Tuesday, sheriff's detectives, forensic scientists, and genealogists described a remarkable series of challenges they faced in piecing together evidence and tracing the extended family trees of hundreds of individuals based on DNA run through an online genealogy database called GEDMatch. Balaam said they involved the same techniques that were used to find a suspect in the 'Golden State Killer' investigation last year. He said the 37-year-old cold case at Tahoe was solved through a combination of the DNA evidence, new advances in forensic genealogy research and old-fashioned detective work. 'This is an incredible story,' he said. 'This technology is absolutely fascinating.' Roadblocks along the way included the fact Curry was born out of wedlock and raised under a different name in the Dallas area. Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam explained how police used decades-old DNA evidence run through online databases to identify Mary A flow chart showing how police were able to plot Mary's family tree using the same DNA techniques used to catch the Golden State Killer His DNA wasn't in the FBI database because he was never convicted of the California murders, Balaam said. After identifying his biological mother in Texas, Balaam said Curry was eventually linked to the Tahoe killing through DNA obtained from the sexual assault kit kept in evidence since the body was found on July 17, 1982. Based on the GEDMatch results, the DNA Doe Project working with Indentifinders International was able to determine the victim was the biological daughter of a now-deceased couple in Detroit. They suspected it was Mary Silvani and were able to confirm her identity based on a set of fingerprints provided by Detroit police from a 1974 misdemeanor. 'If everybody had not done their job as this went along, this case never would have been solved,' Washoe County sheriff's Detective Kathleen Bishop said. Police said in January 1983 that Curry, who was the manager of a storage lot in Santa Clara, confessed to killing a couple who ran a rival storage facility in the San Jose area, Gerald Novoselatz and his wife, Sharon. Balaam said Curry shot the man at the Novoselatz residence, then kidnapped and sexually assaulted his wife before killing her elsewhere. While in custody, Curry confessed to fatally shooting Richard Lemmon Jr. of Bakersfield, California, and told detectives where to find his body stashed in the Santa Clara storage unit. In the spring of 1943, RAF Squadron Leader Roger Bushell conceived a plan for a major escape from the German Stalag Luft III Camp near Sagan, now Zagan in Poland. With the escape planned for the night of March 24, 1944, the PoWs built three 30ft deep tunnels, named Tom, Dick and Harry, so that if one was discovered by the German guards, they would not suspect that work was underway on two more. Bushell intended to get more than 200 men through the tunnels, each wearing civilian clothes and possessing a complete range of forged papers and escape equipment. In the spring of 1943, RAF Squadron Leader Roger Bushell conceived a plan for a major escape from the German Stalag Luft III Camp near Sagan, now Zagan in Poland To hide the earth dug from the tunnels, the prisoners attached pouches of the sand inside their trousers so that as they walked around, it would scatter. The prisoners wore greatcoats to conceal the bulges made by the sand and were referred to as 'penguins' because of their supposed resemblance to the animal. When the attempt began, it was discovered that Harry had come up short and instead of reaching into a nearby forest, the first man in fact emerged just short of the tree line, close to a guard tower. Plans for one man to leave every minute was reduced to 10 per hour. The Great Escape starred Steve McQueen (pictured above) as Captain Virgil Hilts In total, 76 men crawled through to initial freedom, but the 77th was spotted by a guard. In the hunt for the entrance one guard Charlie Pilz crawled through the tunnel but after becoming trapped at the other end called for help. The prisoners opened the entrance, revealing the location. Of the escapees, three made it to safety, 73 were captured, and 50 of them executed. ... and the Hollywood film The 1963 film The Great Escape was based on real events and, although some characters were fictitious, many were based on real people, or amalgams of several of those involved. The film starred Steve McQueen as Captain Virgil Hilts, James Garner as Flight Lieutenant Robert Hendley and Richard Attenborough as Squadron Leader Roger Bartlett, and was based on a book of the same name by Paul Brickhill. Contrary to the film, no American PoWs were involved in the escape attempt, and there were no escapes by motorcycle or aircraft. Hilts' dash for the border by motorcycle was added by request of McQueen, who did the stunt riding himself except for the final jump. Watching pornography on buses is to be banned, ministers announce today. Bus conductors and the police will be given powers to tackle those who watch sexual material on mobile phones and tablets after MPs warned it amounted to a new form of sexual harassment. Ministers are also drawing up plans for a national database of harassment incidents. It will record incidents at work and in public places, and is likely to cover wolf-whistling and cat-calling as well as more serious incidents such as upskirting on public transport. MPs declared watching porn on the bus a 'new form of sexual harassment' and are drawing up plans for a new database of incidents In addition, the Government is considering whether to launch a public health campaign warning of the effects of pornography modelled on smoking campaigns. The developments follow a shocking report by the Women and Equalities Committee published last year. Tory MP Maria Miller, the committee chairman, said sexual harassment pervades the lives of women and girls but often remains invisible to men. Her October report cited surveys which found that nearly two thirds of all women and 85 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds had experienced unwanted sexual attention in public. More than one in three women reported unwanted touching, and more than 60 per cent of girls and young women said they did not feel safe walking home. Growing numbers said they felt unsafe online. The report detailed incidents ranging from wolf-whistling to unwanted sexual comments, groping and sexual rubbing on public transport, upskirt photographs, rape threats and men exposing themselves. And research on young men found that nearly one in three had made sexually harassing comments to a woman or girl in a public place in the previous month, the report found. It cited evidence that harassers come from all backgrounds and ages, but are most likely to be found among men who have a strong belief in gender stereotypes and toxic forms of masculinity. Bus conductors and the police will be given powers to tackle those who watch sexual material on mobile phones The report warned the widespread use of mobiles for watching pornography means children may accidentally be exposed to it in public. Branding the phenomenon a new form of sexual harassment, it called for a total ban. In response, the Women and Equalities Office said bus regulations would be changed to cover the viewing of pornography, which would allow police officers and conductors to act against passengers viewing explicit material. It comes as the UK prepares to introduce tough new controls on web pornography. From July 15, websites hosting adult content must conform to new age checks to ensure users are over 18 before allowing them access. A separate Government-commissioned review is considering whether sexual harassment of women in public should be made a hate crime. Mrs Miller said she was pleased the Government had responded positively to practical recommendations on womens safety on public transport. She called on ministers to develop a comprehensive programme of work to make public places safe for all women and girls. In their response, ministers agreed that sexual harassment creates an environment in which violence against women and girls is both hidden and normalised. Change UK have been left red-faced after a Brexit supporter took over their old Twitter handle and renamed the account 'Cringe UK'. The new political party was set up by seven splinter Labour MPs in February under the name 'The Independent Group'. A month later, they registered as a political party for the European elections - changing their title to 'Change UK - The Independent Group'. The latest rebrand has seen the group change from @TheIndGroup to @ForChange_Now - presumably to avoid being confused with change.org again. Change UK tweeted earlier today: 'Our website's updated to VoteForChange.UK & Twitter to @ForChange_Now! Change UK have been left red-faced after a Brexit supporter took over their old Twitter handle and renamed the account 'Cringe UK' 'Sadly our former handle has been hijacked by someone making mischief. Our message is clear - politics is broken, we need to change it. We are arguing for a #PeoplesVote & for #Remain in these elections.' Former Tory MP Anna Soubry, who joined the group just days after its inauguration, accidentally referred to her new party as 'change dot org' in the House of Commons shortly after the original announcement. At the time, the petition website said it was 'seeking guidance' over the 'proposed use of our brand name'. The new owner of the previous handle has changed the account's banner to a sideways version of the real logo alongside the caption: 'Cringe UK, the terrible group'. The profile photo features a snap of the European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker, and the pinned tweet is a picture taken from a government leaflet about Brexit which reads: 'This is your decision. The Government will implement what you decide.' The account has also retweeted several anti-Change UK comments as well as pro-Brexit statements since the takeover earlier today. A New Zealand couple who were renovating their humble cottage have uncovered what appears to be ritualistic markings on their floorboards. The pair were replacing carpets in their house in Okura, on the North Island, when they discovered a five-pointed star and circle on their bedroom floors. The discovery came as a bit of a shock to the couple, who have owned the villa for 30 years, and previously changed the carpets without noticing any markings. The wife said she was surprised when her husband showed her the first floor marking after removing the old wall-to-wall rug The wife told the New Zealand Herald she was surprised when her husband showed her the first floor marking after removing the old wall-to-wall rug. But when he called her again after he found a second bizarre marking on the other bedroom floor, the woman said she was in complete shock. 'The strange thing is we've had our carpet laid three times ... and it hasn't been pointed out to us before but the first two times we weren't there,' the woman said. The house was originally built in Saint Marys Bay, about a 30-minute drive from where it now stands, in 1904, before the couple relocated it to Okura, she said. Curious to learn more about the origins of the house, the woman said she had reached out to Auckland Council with the address details. Neither the woman nor her husband have strong religious views and are keen to uncover what the markings could potentially mean. The couple also posted photos of the markings on Facebook on Tuesday and asked people to help clarify what they could possibly mean. 'There's no weird feeling or vibes or things like that it's just a normal family home with strange drawings on the floor we never knew about,' the woman said. When the woman's husband called her again after he found a second bizarre marking on the other bedroom floor, she said she was in complete shock 'I believe there is something occult about it because we've all read or seen movies with those items described but I haven't had a chance to explore.' While opinions varied from paganism to Satanism and Christian worship, a Haunted Auckland spokesperson left a comment that said the markings mean different things to various people. 'It's not a pentagram, it's a 5 pointed star. Used in many differing beliefs and communities,' the spokesperson wrote on Facebook. 'The Freemasons, Astrologers, the Babylonians, witches... I guess it depends on who lived there at the time. 'Could be ritualistic; could just be a neat design a previous owner put in for aesthetic or creative reasons. Only the artist knows,' the spokesperson wrote. Dementia patients must be given part of a 2.4 billion NHS fund to help with unfair and unsustainable care costs, MPs will say today. A cross-party group of 68 MPs demanded sufferers be given a personal budget of thousands of pounds a year. This could be spent on the care costs required to live with the disease such as home adaptations and care home costs - which are up to 15 per cent more expensive for patients with dementia as they are deemed more difficult to look after. Dementia patients must be given part of a 2.4 billion NHS fund to help with unfair and unsustainable care costs, MPs will say today In an open letter to health secretary Matt Hancock, MPs said they wanted part of the promised 20 billion NHS boost to go directly to the patients to help with their care, The Times reported. Conservative MPs included Andrea Jenkyns and Mark Prisk joined Labour MPs Rachael Maskell and Rosie Cooper as well as Heidi Allen of Change UK and Caroline Lucas of the Green Party in signing the letter. The letter reads: The NHS is committed to the principle of access based on clinical need, not an individuals ability to pay. We back the Alzheimers Societys proposal of a dementia fund... available to individuals post-diagnosis, to enable their continued independence in the community for as long as possible. While people with cancer have their treatment costs covered by the NHS, those with dementia struggle to finance the increasing costs of care as council-run social care is cut back. In the current system, the majority of people with dementia have to fund the entirety of their care unless they are deemed to have assets of less than 23,250. There are around 420,000 people with dementia in England and the average cost of an individuals care is 100,000. Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimers Society, told The Times: Decades of underfunding have left people with dementia struggling with a system that is unfair and unsustainable. The injustice of people battling to get care, on top of battling the devastating effects of dementia, cant go on. Proposals by the Alzheimers Society want the money to go to measures to keep sufferers out of hospital and reduce pressure on A&E. Entering hospital can be a disorienting and frightening experience for dementia sufferers when they are exposed to unfamiliar settings and people. An NHS England spokesman said: There has been major progress on diagnosing dementia over the past few years, exceeding the goal set for the NHS. The NHS long-term plan prioritises further improvements in dementia care, with GPs being given additional support to spot the tell-tale signs of dementia and provide additional help. An Australian online marketplace has been forced to remove pillows, mini skirts and bags emblazoned with images of the Auschwitz concentration camp. The official Auschwitz Memorial Twitter slammed Redbubble for the 'disturbing and disrespectful' items available for purchase online. 'Do you really think that selling such products as pillows, mini skirts or tote bags with the images of Auschwitz - a place of enormous human tragedy where over 1,1 million people were murdered - is acceptable?' they tweeted. 'This is rather disturbing and disrespectful.' The official Auschwitz Memorial twitter slammed Redbubble for the 'disturbing and disrespectful' items available for purchase online The tweet was attached to screenshots of the items and their prices listed in Euros. The mini skirt was 35 (about 55 AUD and 30) while the pillow depicting the train tracks at Auschwitz-Birkenau cost 40.29 (about 65 AUD and 35). Redbubble, founded in Melbourne, welcomes sellers to list their items in an online marketplace comparable to eBay. The marketplace responded to Auschwitz Memorial on Twitter and said they were taking immediate action to remove the items. 'Thank you for bringing this to our attention. The nature of this content is not acceptable and is not in line with our Community Guidelines,' Redbubble tweeted. 'We are taking immediate action to remove these and similar works available on these product types.' The tweet was attached to screenshots of the items and their prices listed in Euros The mini skirt was 35, about 55 AUD, while the pillow depicting the train tracks at Auschwitz-Birkenau cost 40.29, about 65 AUD Many responded to Auschwitz Memorial's tweet, criticising the 'unbelievable' and 'disrespectful' items. 'I gasped when I saw this. Who in their right mind would manufacture and buy such products?' one person said. 'I can't believe this. This is so disrespectful. How can they do this to the families who lost loved ones. Sickening,' another said. Auschwitz, in Nazi-occupied Poland, was the largest concentration camp used by the Nazis during World War II. The camp was set up in Polish town Oswiecim, the country's south, in 1940 before it was expanded to Auschwitz II, or Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1942. The marketplace responded to Auschwitz Memorial on Twitter and said they were taking immediate action to remove the items Auschwitz, south Poland, was the largest concentration camp used by the Nazis during World War II (pictured: train tracks at Birkenau) The train tracks at Birkenau brought prisoners into the camp before they were directed to gas chambers or ordered to work on the site. Auschwitz-Birkenau still exists as a memorial site, with more than two million visitors paying respect to the victims in 2018. Redbubble said they are an online marketplace and independent users take responsibility for what images they upload. 'Redbubble takes a strong stance against racism and violence, including the atrocities committed in Nazi concentration camps,' they said in a statement. 'We have onsite reporting functions in place should community members discover works that breach these guidelines that have not yet been removed by our team. 'We are grateful when any such material on the site is brought to our attention.' Mark Latham will today stand in NSW Parliament and deliver his maiden speech, which will include a powerful defence of rugby player Israel Folau's right to free speech and for Australians to be proud of declaring they are Christians. The former Labor leader was elected to the New South Wales Upper House last month after joining Pauline Hanson's One Nation party in a remarkable political comeback - and has vowed to attack pervasive political correctness that don't represent mainstream Australia. 'No Australian should be able to fearful of proclaiming four of the most glorious words of our civilization: I am a Christian,' Mr Latham will say on the floor of Parliament. Mr Latham's powerhouse 2GB Radio ally Alan Jones - considered one of Australia's best orators and himself a former speechwriter to prime minister Malcolm Fraser - gave the speech a gushing preview on Wednesday morning. 'This may well be the most outstanding political speech I have ever read, and I'm a hard marker,' he said. One Nation's Mark Latham is taking his seat in the NSW Legislative Council and will today deliver his maiden speech Israel Folau (with wife Maria) was found guilty of a 'high level breach' of his contract with a post saying 'hell awaits' the likes of 'homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators' and more 'It should be printed in every newspaper in the country. Jones, said Mr Latham's words should be read by 'every school child ... and every university lecturer who preaches left-wing, politically-correct rubbish'. Jones is close to Latham, having written a cookbook with the former Labor leader, and who is a regular guest on his top-rating show. Mr Latham said he will attack 'mutant' strains of thinking - an apparent reference to political correctness - and will directly address the issue of rugby player Israel Folau in Parliament. 'Mr President, I stand with Israel Folau,' he will say. Our country... is under siege by mutant strains of thinking and oppression' Mark Latham He said Rugby Australia had made a 'political decision to rub out Israel Folau', who was found guilty of a high-level breach of his contract after he posted to Instagram saying 'hell awaits' homosexuals, fornicators and drunks. Mr Latham said if the organisation is ridding itself of Folau 'under the banner of diversity and inclusion, it's clearly ridiculous, because they're making their sport less inclusive. 'All Israel Folau is saying is what people have said for hundreds of years under the banner of the Bible, that the sinners go to hell.'' Alan Jones - a gifted orator who is a former speechwriter for ex-prime minister Malcolm Fraser - gushed over Mr Latham's speech Mark Latham is seen being sworn into the NSW Parliament on Wednesday Political correctness is also in Mr Latham's sights. He said it was a 'dreadful' moment for Australia that Christians were feeling fearful of proclaiming their faith in public forums, for fear of persecution. 'The purpose of my speech today is to say things about our country, culture our civilisation we take for granted - they're under siege by mutant strains of thinking and oppression'. Mr Latham was sworn into the state parliament on Tuesday, with Ms Hanson and her adviser James Ashby in attendance. No doubt not everyone will be as blown away by Mr Latham's speech as Jones. The election of Mr Latham and former detective Rod Roberts for One Nation sparked a protest out the front of the state Parliament yesterday. The best friend of Australia's worst female serial killer has dismissed diary evidence used to convict her friend saying it was simply an exercise in grief gone wrong. Tracy Chapman has been friends with convicted child killer Kathleen Folbigg since the pair were six years old and she has maintained her best friend's innocence since she was sent to jail in 2003. She was convicted of the murders of her children Sarah, Patrick and Laura and was convicted of the manslaughter of her firstborn, Caleb. Tracy Chapman (pictured) has been friends with convicted child killer Kathleen Folbigg since the pair were six and she has maintained her best friend's innocence since she was sent to jail after her 2003 Sydney trial Tracy Chapman dismissed diary evidence (pictured) used to convict her friend, saying entries in the journal were simply an exercise in grief gone wrong 'They are trying to paint her as someone loopy and it's not about that, it's just a grieving mother,' Mrs Chapman said of the damning diary entries which helped convict Folbigg. The diary entries tendered in Folbigg's trial contained passages referring to doing 'terrible things' and wanting to shut her baby up. 'With Sarah all I wanted to do was shut her up, and one day she did. Laura's a fairly good natured baby, thank goodness. It saved her from the fate of her siblings,' two passages read. Mrs Chapman was one of the leading voices calling for a new inquest into Folbigg's conviction and she told the Sunrise TV program that she has never doubted her friend's innocence. Folbigg (pictured) has always maintained her children all died from natural causes, she was originally sentenced to 40 years prison with a non-parole period of 30 years Folbigg was convicted of the murders of Sarah (left) and Laura (pictured right) along with her two sons 'I always knew there were other families out there around the world that have gone through the same thing, it is pretty rare but not impossible and I think that is an important thing people need to get in their heads, that it is not impossible,' Mrs Chapman said. The ongoing inquest into her case saw Folbigg take the stand in April, when she broke down crying while giving evidence on her diary entries. 'I don't know why any of my children died, but I didn't kill them,' Folbigg said. 'I didn't kill my children. And these diaries are a record of just how depressed... and a struggle I was having.' Folbigg was also convicted for murdering her son Patrick (pictured left) and the manslaughter death of her firstborn son Caleb (pictured right) She said she was always searching for 'why' her children died to which Christopher Maxwell QC suggested it was 'because you smothered them', a claim Folbigg flatly denied. Folbigg has always maintained her children all died from natural causes. She was originally sentenced to 40 years prison with a non-parole period of 30 years. Her sentence was later reduced to 30 years with a non-parole period of 25 years after a successful appeal, and she has so far served almost half of her sentence. The inquest into the case continues. Bill Shorten has broken down in tears during an emotional defence of his late mother after he was accused of hiding the truth about her esteemed career to score political points. With his voice wavering at times, the Labor leader said his mother Ann was the 'smartest woman I've ever known' as he detailed her life's ambitions and struggles and took aim at his critics, whom he accused of a grubby 'political hit'. Mr Shorten was caught omitting one vital fact from his sob story on Q&A about his late mother's dashed dream to be a lawyer on Monday night - that she actually became a successful one. Scroll down for video An emotional Bill Shorten broke down in tears as he defended his mother after he faced claims he hid the truth about her career The Opposition Leader praised his beloved mother Ann, who died of breast cancer aged 79 five years ago, during the final minutes of the ABC show on Monday night. However, he failed to mention that she progressed to the bar after becoming a school teacher. Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper used that omission to launch a character attack on Mr Shorten, sparking his spirited offensive against News Corp Australia. 'So I'd say to whoever thought they'd organised a political hit on me in the election to cast some doubt, I can hear my mum now say, "Don't worry about that rubbish",' he told reporters on Wednesday morning. 'But she might tell whoever's pulling down a six-figure sum at The Daily Telegraph, "Look it up".' After being slammed on the front page bearing the headline 'Mother of Invention', Mr Shorten also slammed News Corp Australia on Twitter late last night. 'In a new low, The Daily Telegraph has decided to use my mum's life as a political attack on me, and her memory,' he tweeted. 'They think they know more about my mum than I do.' With his voice wavering at times, the Labor leader said his mother Ann was the 'smartest woman I've ever known' as he detailed her life's ambitions and struggles and took aim at his critics, whom he accused of a grubby 'political hit' Mr Shorten launched a spirited attack on News Corp Australia after The Daily Telegraph used his Q&A answer about his mother to accuse him of hiding details of his personal life Two days after omitting to mention her esteemed legal career later in life, Mr Shorten told how his mother came from a working-class background and was the first in her family to go to university. 'My mum would want me to say to older women in Australia, just because you've got grey hair, just because you didn't go to a special private school, just because you don't go to the right clubs, just because you're not part of some back-slapping boys' club, doesn't mean you should give up,' he tearfully said on the New South Wales South Coast. 'My mum is the smartest woman I have ever known. It has never occurred to me women are not the equal of men.' Ann Shorten had dreams of being a lawyer but became a teacher instead so she could look after her younger siblings, Mr Shorten had said on Monday night. The aspiring prime minister's address on Wednesday was hailed as an election-winning moment. Ann Shorten graduated with a law degree from Monash University in 1985 with first-class honours, and practised at the Victorian Bar for six years, as she raised Mr Shorten and his non-identical twin brother Robert After being slammed on the front page of Sydney's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Mr Shorten slammed News Corp Australia on Twitter late last night Mrs Shorten actually did follow her dreams and became a barrister later in life when she was in her 50s. She graduated with a law degree from Monash University in 1985 with first-class honours, and practised at the Victorian Bar for six years, as she raised Mr Shorten and his non-identical twin brother Robert. Ann Shorten had earned her PhD at Monash in 1976 and rose to the career-grade rank of senior lecturer. She was also the founder of the Australian and New Zealand Education Law Association in 1991. Mrs Shorten also paid to send her twin boys to Melbourne's exclusive Xavier College, which has annual fees of more than $28,000. On Monday night, in a bid to woo an ABC studio audience, Mr Shorten told Q&Ahow his late mother Ann was stuck being a teacher, without mentioning how she later became a senior law lecturer at Monash University 'My parents sent me to a rich school. But we were not rich,' Mr Shorten said. 'We were not poor. We were not rich. We were like hundreds of thousands of other families. 'My family spent all their spare cash educating Robert and I. 'We had three holidays when we were kids. Who cares? I got a quality education.' On Monday night, in a bid to woo an ABC audience, Mr Shorten told Q&A how his late mother Ann was stuck being a teacher, without mentioning how she later became a barrister and a senior law lecturer at Monash University. 'She became a teacher, but she wanted to be a lawyer, but she was the eldest in the family, so needed to take the teacher scholarship to look after the rest of the kids,' Mr Shorten said on Monday night. 'My mum was a brilliant woman. She wasn't bitter. She worked here for 35 years. But I also know that if she had had other opportunities, she could have done anything.' Mr Shorten was campaigning on Wednesday in the marginal Liberal-held electorate of Gilmore, south of Sydney, where former Labor national president Warren Mundine is running as the Liberal candidate. The mother of a teenager who was horrifically hacked to death by a group of knife-wielding men outside of a Bronx bodega said she had to stifle her screams in court on Tuesday, as a jury were shown never-before-seen footage of her sons slaying. With the trial entering its second day, prosecutors showed the graphic footage captured from two angles by NYPD security cameras documenting the moment six attackers senselessly dragged Lesandro Junior Guzman-Feliz, 15, out of a convenience store and savagely stabbed him with an array of blades. I closed my eyes It was torture, like killing me alive, the teens mother Leandra Feliz said outside Bronx Supreme Court. The footage, captured on June 20, 2018, shows Junior running into the store on the corner of Bathgate Ave. and 183rd street, pursued by two hooded men shortly before midnight. I closed my eyes It was torture, like killing me alive, the teens mother Leandra Feliz said outside Bronx Supreme Court of the video Lesandro 'Junior' Guzman-Feliz (above) was murdered in June last year by a knife and machete-wielding gang outside a New York bodega One of the men can be seen signalling to a group of five other assailants, all believed to be members of the Trinitarios gang, who were gathered on a nearby street corner. The group of men then drag the 15-year-old out of the store as Junior tries desperately to flee their grasp, holding on the corner of the shops door frame before being pulled out into the street The group then set upon the teenager with a number of knives and a machete, stabbing him over and over again as he lay on the floor attempting to dodge the blows. Prosecutors believe Junior was the victim of a heinous case of mistaken identity, with his killers wrongly believing him to be a member of a rival gang. Juniors family were warned of the videos graphic nature before it was played out to the courtroom. Feliz was seen placing a hand over her mouth when the video began, attempting to stifle her cries as she relived the moment her son was dragged through the doors of the bodega. Feliz was seen placing a hand over her mouth when the video began, attempting to stifle her cries Prosecutors believe Junior was the victim of a heinous case of mistaken identity, with his killers wrongly believing him to be a member of a rival gang Another woman was seen crying uncontrollably in the gallery and had to remove herself from the courtroom, the New York Post reported. Of the 14 believed to have been involved in the killing five have are charged with the murder and are standing trial. The alleged gang members will face life in prison if convicted. Antonio Rodriguez, Hernandez Santiago, Elvin Garcia, Jonaiki Martinez Estrella, Jose Muniz and Manuel Rivera were charged with the murder and face additional charges of manslaughter, conspiracy, gang assault and criminal possession of a weapon. The five alleged killers began their murder trial this week as the first witness came to the stand and provided a statement. Witness Tamika Jones, saw the murder take place outside her apartment window and described the moments after the attackers 'drove off' from the scene. She said: 'That's when he basically looked up at us and was basically signalling as us, 'Call 911. They cut my throat. The blood was all over his body, his legs, on the floor, Jones continued. He was holding his neck. 'He was trying to stay alive, holding his wound himself. His last word was 'water'. Prosecutors say it's Alvarez who can be seen dragging Feliz from the bodega door (as seen above) The teen, nicknamed Junior, had run to a nearby hospital before collapsing. Prosecutors alleged at a hearing in March that it was Kevin Alvarez, 19, who can be seen dragging Feliz from the bodega door, as another gang member can be seen slashing at the defenceless teen with a machete. Jonaiki Martinez Estrella is said to have delivered the fatal wound, with the other four defendants lawyers appearing to use this as an argument against the life imprisonment of their clients. Martin Goldberg, lawyer for accused Jose Muniz argued that his client had pretended to inflict injury by using the blunt side of his machete, The New York Daily News reported. Mr Goldberg said: 'Jose was careful never to let the sharp side of the blade come into contact with Junior. 'You know how hard it is, folks, not to cause a serious physical injury with a machete?' Feliz's mother attending the courtroom shortly after her son's death, escorted in and out of the premises by a police escort and two members of New York's famous Guardian Angels vigilante group. Pictured: Leandra Feliz (center) Officers said with his dying breath, the 15-year-old asked for some water. He had aspirations to become a police officer, family say Police say the alleged killers are members of the Trinitarios subset 'Los Sures' and they believed Lesandro to be a member of rival gang 'Sunset'. 'They allegedly drove to the territory of the Sunset group, came upon Junior and chased him into a bodega in the Belmont section, where he tried to hide,' Bronx DA Darcel Clark said last year. Investigators said Junior had told his mother he was going to the bodega a block away from his house to either repay a debt, or lend $5 to a friend. He never made it home that night. Feliz was a member of the NYPD Explorers' Program, a group for children interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Alvarez and all other suspects have pleaded not guilty to Feliz's murder. British real estate company Purplebricks is leaving Australia less than three years after setting up Down Under. The estate agent with no branches promised to revolutionise the market by charging a fixed fee of around $8,000 to list properties online instead of taking commission. The company claimed customers could save on average $11,500 by using it instead of a traditional agent. But it has struggled with house prices dropping, meaning there were fewer sales for it to make money from. Purplebricks announced on Tuesday that it will pull out of Australia after honouring commitments to anyone who has sold a house with them. Founder and chief executive Michael Bruce (pictured) has left Purplebricks The company said in a trading update: 'During the two and a half years that Purplebricks has been operating in Australia, market conditions have become increasingly challenging. 'This, combined with some execution errors, has resulted in the business not delivering the progress the Board expected.' Chairman Paul Pindar apologised to shareholders for its share price dropping 64 per cent last year and nine per cent so far this year. He said: 'With hindsight, our rate of geographic expansion was too rapid and as a result the quality of execution has suffered.' Founder and chief executive Michael Bruce has left and the company has put its US operation under review. The triple whammy of major changes has knocked investor confidence in the company, with shares falling nearly 6 per cent in London on Tuesday morning. Bruce has stepped away from Purplebricks with immediate effect, just months after shares in the firm tumbled when it cut revenue guidance and announced the departure of the bosses of its UK and US units. The company's chief operating officer Vic Darvey is stepping up to replace Bruce. The 'increasingly challenging' conditions in Australia combined with 'execution errors', have meant returns being generated by the company down under are 'not sufficient to justify continued investment'. It will now commence an 'orderly run down' culminating in full closure. There are mounting concerns over the housing market in Australia as the price of houses have been falling since late 2017. In the US, Purplebricks is not throwing in the towel but has put its operations under review after disappointing performance. The firm said: 'Whilst good progress has been made in launching our brand across the US, the board has materially cut investment in marketing and other overheads to reduce expenditure to sustainable levels and begun a strategic review.' The company added that there has been a 'slower-than-expected response' to its marketing initiative and it does not expect US revenue to meet expectations. To compound matters, last month analysts downgraded the online estate agent and said it would have to raise fresh cash. WHAT IS PURPLEBRICKS? Purplebricks was launched in 2014 by Northern Irish brothers Michael and Kenny Bruce as 'the first 24 hour estate agent'. For a fixed fee they put you in touch with a local property expert who gives you a valuation and takes photos of your house. Purple Bricks is biggest and most famous online agent after a successful marketing drive with a 72 per cent share of the online market You get a slot on their website where you can track viewings - and listings on all the top portals. Unlike most online agents which cancel your adverts after a certain time, Purple Bricks market your property until it sells. And after the deal is done you get post-sales team which helps you all the way to completion. Michael Bruce said: 'What property owners want is to get that local expertise, but they are more tech-savvy and want to see what happens as it happens. You don't get this on the high street.' Advertisement Purplebricks confirmed that it expects revenue to be between 130million (AU$240m) and 140million (AU$260m) as guided in February, and its cash balance will be no lower than 62million (AU$115.). Chairman Paul Pindar took the opportunity to acknowledge the firm has made mistakes. 'We are very conscious that the group's performance has been disappointing over the last 12 months and we sincerely apologise to shareholders for that,' he said. 'With hindsight, our rate of geographic expansion was too rapid and as a result the quality of execution has suffered.' 'We have also made sub-optimal decisions in allocating capital. We will learn from these errors and will not make them again.' Los Angeles has filed a lawsuit against tax return preparers Intuit, which owns TurboTax, and H&R Block alleging that the companies deceived low-income filers by offering a free service while in practice steering them toward their for-pay products. Taxpayers should never be misled into needlessly spending their hard-earned money for services to which theyre entitled for free. But thats what we allege happened here, said Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer. In short, we allege these companies intentionally took advantage of the low-income residents they pledged to help. H&R Block has been named in a lawsuit filed by the City of Los Angeles on Tuesday The unfair and deceptive practices we allege must stop; consumers should receive restitution for fees we allege they never should have paid; and these companies should be held accountable for their alleged misconduct. H&R Block and Intuit deny the allegations. 'Any suggestion that Intuit does not support the IRS Free File Program is flat wrong,' a spokesperson for Intuit told DailyMail.com. 'We stand behind our actions as being both appropriate and consistent with our values. 'More people have filed their taxes for absolutely free with TurboTax than all other tax prep software companies combined. 'We are committed to offering Americans the ability to file their taxes for free, and were committed to the IRS Free File program. 'We look forward to working with the IRS and private industry to improve the Free File program and help it continue to grow.' DailyMail.com has reached out to H&R Block seeking comment. The lawsuit by the City of Los Angeles comes a week after New York Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered state agencies to investigate TurboTax and H&R Block. LA's top attorney filed a civil suit alleging that H&R Block and Intuit, the maker of TurboTax, deceived low income tax filers by steering them away from their free services 'The allegations against these major tax return preparers are disturbing, and New York will not stand idle as the public's interest is undermined in order to pad the profits of wealthy corporations,' Cuomo said. 'I am calling on the Department of Financial Services and the Department of Taxation and Finance to investigate these claims to help ensure New Yorkers are protected. 'We have zero tolerance for these deceptive practices and those responsible will be held accountable for these egregious actions.' The companies are being accused of blocking filers' access to the Free File program. In 2002, a number of companies agreed to allow those who earn less than $66,000 in annual income to file their taxes for free, sparing the IRS from the task of creating their own web site. But a news report from April 26 alleged that TurboTax and H&R Block hid their free filing tax option from Google results which forced many low-income workers to needlessly pay for the service. Intuit, the company that operates TurboTax, added a code to its free filing website that essentially told Google and other search engines to not list it in search results, ProPublica reported. The code in question, which can be found in a file called robots.txt or in an HTML tag, has to be actively added to a site, as Intuit has done. TurboTax and H&R Block have been accused of hiding their free filing tax option from Google results which forced many low-income workers to needlessly pay for the service The code to block the free filing system, which can be found in a file called robots.txt or in an HTML tag, has to be actively added to a site, as Intuit has done It is typically used on pages that designers want to hide from the open internet, such as those that are for internal use only. Without that code, Google and other search engines default to adding a site to their search results. ProPublica reported that H&R Block also hid its H&R Block Free File product from Google using the same sort of code. Intuit, H&R Block, and other tax preparation companies created free filing software in exchange for the IRS not creating their own version. However, while 70% of workers filing tax are eligible for free filing, just 3% use the service. The Senate is currently considering whether or not to make a free filing deal with companies like Intuit and H&R Block permanent. Senator Ron Wyden, a Democratic member of the Senate Finance Committee, described Intuits tactics to reduce access to a free filing program as 'outrageous' and confusing to taxpayers. He said in a statement: 'The IRS agreement with the tax-preparation software industry requires companies to work to increase the number of taxpayers who file their taxes for free. Intuit, H&R Block, and other tax-prep companies created free filing software in exchange for the IRS not creating their own version A H&R Block tax official assists workers file their taxes in an H&R Block office in Des Plaines 'Steering eligible taxpayers away from filing for free or blocking the Free File page from search results violates the spirit of the agreement and calls into serious question the justification for the program.' The code on TurboTaxs Free File site claims 'noindex,nofollow' instructions for it not to show up in search results. In contrast, the TurboTax page that puts many users on track to pay signals to Google that it should be listed in search results. Senator Ron Wyden, a Democratic member of the Senate Finance Committee, described Intuits tactics to reduce access to a free filing program as 'outrageous' Under the Free File deal, Intuit and other companies pledged to work 'to increase electronic filing of tax returns, which includes extending the benefits of online federal tax preparation and electronic filing to economically disadvantaged and underserved populations at no cost.' Intuit is the dominant player in consumer tax software, and it has a reported market share of 60%. Intuit said it would review the issue in a statement obtained by the New York Daily News. It read: 'We are undertaking a thorough review of our search practices to ensure we are achieving our goal of increasing eligible taxpayers awareness of the IRS Free File Program and its availability.' President Donald Trump took a victory lap Wednesday on Twitter after a federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration can make asylum seekers wait in Mexico for immigration court hearings while the policy is challenged in court. The decision handed the president a major victory, even if it only proves temporary. 'Big Court win at our Southern Border! We are getting there - and Wall is being built!' Trump tweeted in response. The famously liberal-leaning 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals a frequent target of the president's complaints reversed a decision by a San Francisco judge that would have prevented asylum seekers from being returned to Mexico during the legal challenge. The case must still be considered on its merits and could end up at the Supreme Court. But allowing the policy to remain in effect in the meantime lets the administration carry out an unprecedented change to U.S. asylum practices. President Donald Trump, pictured Tuesday at the White House, is applauding a court decisioin that allows his administration to continue forcing asylum seekers from Central America to wait in Mexico while their cases are considered Central American asylum seekers are pictured being escorted out of the Chaparral border crossing gate after being sent back to Mexico by the U.S. in Tijuana, Mexico on January 30 People from Central American countries fall under a different law from those with Mexican nationality, who can be sent back home immediately no matter what if they cross the border without papers The administration has said it plans to rapidly expand the policy across the border, which would have far-reaching consequences for asylum seekers and Mexican border cities that host them while their cases wind through clogged U.S. immigration courts. Cases can take several years to decide. The policy was challenged by 11 Central Americans and advocacy groups that argued it jeopardized asylum seekers by forcing them to stay in Mexico, where crime and drug violence are prevalent. U.S. District Court Judge Richard Seeborg agreed April 8 and said the policy should be halted because it failed to evaluate the dangers migrants faced in Mexico. The administration introduced its 'Migrant Protection Protocols' policy on Jan. 29 in San Diego and later expanded it to Calexico, California, and El Paso, Texas. Under the policy, asylum seekers report to a border crossing in the morning. The U.S. government provides transportation to immigration court and returns them to the border after the hearing. The U.S. has returned 3,267 Central American asylum seekers through three border cities, Mexico's immigration agency said Monday. The administration briefly halted the policy after Seeborg's ruling but resumed on April 16, sending 673 people to Tijuana from San Diego since then, 298 to Mexicali from Calexico and 967 to Ciudad Juarez from El Paso. The policy was introduced to deal with a growing number of asylum-seeking families from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador arriving at the U.S. border with Mexico. Under a court order, children generally cannot be detained more than 20 days, which has led to widespread releases of families almost immediately after they are stopped by authorities. Asylum-seeking immigrants are pictured lining up at a border fence in Tijuana last June The January launch followed months of delicate talks between senior U.S. and Mexican officials that culminated in dual announcements after a meeting in November in Houston. Both sides characterized it as a unilateral move by the Trump administration and Mexican officials have made clear that they do not endorse the policy. The three-judge appeals court panel cited Mexico's position to reject the argument that asylum seekers were at risk. The judges said the 'likelihood of harm is reduced somewhat by the Mexican government's commitment to honor its international law obligations and to grant humanitarian status and work permits to individuals returned under the (Migrant Protection Protocols).' In fact, Mexico said Dec. 20 that it would allow foreigners to apply for a work permit, not necessarily get one. Judge Diarmuid O'Scannlain, who was appointed by President Ronald Regan, offered the strongest backing for the administration's position. Judges William Fletcher, an appointee of Bill Clinton, and Paul Watford, who was named by Barack Obama, were more critical. The administration has shifted policy, in part, because of a series of mass-migrations from Honduras, Guatenala and El Salvador like this one pictured last month The U.S. Supreme Court may ultimately get the case and decide whether asylum-seekers have the legal right to be admitted into the U.S. while they await hearing dates The American Civil Liberties Union, Southern Poverty Law Center and Center for Gender & Refugee Studies sued over the policy. Omar Jadwat, director of the ACLU's Immigrants' Rights Project, said remarks by two of the three judges give reason to believe that the policy will eventually be halted but also raised concern about the impact of Tuesday's decision. 'Asylum seekers are being put at serious risk of harm every day that the forced return policy continues,' he said. Justice and Homeland Security Department officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment late Tuesday, and neither did Mexico's Foreign Relations Secretary officials. Mexicans and children who travel alone are exempt from the policy. Advertisement Home buyers looking to live life as a king can try their luck at seizing this bizarre medieval-style castle hidden away in a quiet New Zealand suburb. Castle Glatisaunt, located in Paparangi in Wellington's northern suburbs, has hit the market, offering potential buyers the chance to live like royalty in a property that's complete with a moat, three turrets, and battlements. The three-bedroom, 551sqm home has been listed for sale by Mike Robbers real estate agency and is set to go under the hammer at the end of the month. Photos of the enchanting property show its quirky features that make it seem more like a theme park than a humble abode. For sale: Castle Glatisaunt, located in Paparangi in Wellington's northern suburbs, has hit the market, offering potential buyers the chance to live like royalty in a property that's complete with a moat, three turrets, and battlements Photos of the enchanting property show its quirky features that make it seem more like a theme park than a humble abode. Chattels include knight armour, shields, swords, chain mail The listing boasts a drawbridge, knight armour, shields, swords, chain mail and a 'large deck perfect for launching dragons', and not a single square room. The castle even comes with snapping crocodiles dwelling in the moat to guard its residents. Additional accents have been added to the castle over the years, such as a dragon toilet seat. Although the property looks like its stood the test of time since the middle ages, it has actually only been around for four decades. The castle was built in 1976, by an unknown builder, and was last sold for $125,000 in 1986, according to Stuff. The current owner is only the second resident to ever live in it. Realtor Mike Robbers told the publication the castle sometimes attracts curious visitors wishing to take a tour. 'It's hidden away, and Paparangi is not the kind of place you think there would be a castle. It's a very, very different property. I don't think I've ever seen a property that doesn't have any square rooms in it before,' Robbers said. Pictured is one of the property's whimsical features including a drawbridge that leads into one of the turrets In terms of its layout, the castle includes all the standard features one would expect to find in any home. It's divided into two apartments, one downstairs with a bedroom and kitchenette, and a second upstairs with rooms in different shapes thanks to the turrets. Robbers revealed the property did come with some strings, describing it as a 'serious restoration project'. 'Has seen its fair share of battles, in need of repairs,' the tongue-in-cheek listing states. But with some magic touches and renovations, owners could potentially make some money out of the property, Robbers said. 'There are inquiries coming from people who want to live in that type of house, there are plenty of people who it appeals to, especially with Game of Thrones on at the moment,' he said. The castle has a retail value of $830,000 ($AUD 777,000) with an approximate price guide $395,000 ($369,000). A school has renamed a Mother's Day stall to avoid upsetting any children without a mother. Brunswick East Primary School in Melbourne will call the stand an 'appreciation stall' instead. In previous years, the school has hosted a fundraising stall where children could buy Mother's Day merchandise such as mugs, trinkets, candles and soaps. But staff have decided to change it because some families were offended - and now children can buy gifts for any special person in their life. Brunswick East Primary School (pictured) in Melbourne will call the stall an 'appreciation stall' instead Principal Janet Di Pilla explained the change in a newsletter to parents, reported the Herald Sun. She wrote: 'I am sorry that in the past we have offended some members of our community and I hope that this acknowledgment goes some way to address any hurt which has occurred in the past. 'I sincerely hope that this change in name will show that we as a community recognise that our families are not made up of any particular combination of people and that we no longer subscribe to a binary world.' Mrs Di Pilla said she had consulted with staff, parents and students before installing the change. Right-wing political party Australian Liberty Alliance slammed the school for the change. It wrote online: 'We believe the natural family is the core building block of human society and must be protected.' But some parents backed the change, with one telling the Herald Sun: 'Some kids, for whatever reason, may not have a mother in their lives, so I don't mind if they broaden the stall so those kids feel included.' Panic erupted at a shopping centre on Wednesday morning after a man opened fire in the car park. A man allegedly fired a gun outside Woorabinda shopping complex in Central Queensland at about 11.15am. Police persuaded him to put down the weapon and he was arrested, The Morning Bulletin reported. Lauren Sanchez was spotted leaving an upscale Italian restaurant in Manhattan on Tuesday, a day after boyfriend Jeff Bezos attended the Met Gala without her. Bezos happily posed for photographs with the Kardashian sisters, Kanye West, and Jared Leto at New York's most exclusive party on Monday. Sanchez, 49, was spotted leaving Nello with two others on Madison Avenue on Tuesday afternoon. She was dressed down for her day out in the city on Tuesday, sporting a jean jacket and shielding her face with aviator frames. Lauren Sanchez was spotted leaving upscale Italian restaurant Nello in Manhattan on Tuesday, two days after she was spotted dining in the city with boyfriend Jeff Bezos Sanchez, 49, was spotted leaving the restaurant with two others on Madison Avenue and was reportedly in good spirits When she was asked if she was still with Bezos, Sanchez declined to comment but reportedly seemed in good spirits. That's not surprising, seeing as Sanchez was out with Bezos, 55, just two nights beforehand. The loved up couple were spotted eating pizza and burgers at Emily in the West Village with Sanchez's sister on Sunday night. It was the first time the couple have been spotted together since their romance made headlines in January. A source told People that Bezos and Sanchez 'have been focused on their kids for the last several months'. Sanchez was dressed down for her day out in the city on Tuesday, sporting a jean jacket and shielding her face with aviator frames Sanchez was spotted two days after she and Bezos dined with her sister at the West Village restaurant Emily (pictured). It was the first time the couple were seen together since their romance made headlines in January 'Any relationship had to be on the back burner for that reason,' they added.'Now that each has reached a divorce settlement, they thought the time was right to finally date like regular people.' Bezos and ex-wife Mackenzie announced that they had finalized the terms of their divorce on April 4. The Amazon CEO retained 75 percent of his stock in the company, as well as voting control over the shares that Mackenzie is retaining. Mackenzie also agreed to relinquish all of her interests in the Washington Post and space exploration firm Blue Origin. The night before, Bezos attended the Met Gala without Sanchez and happily posed for photos with the Kardashian sisters and Jared Leto Bezos was also spotted swapping a few words with Kim before making his way inside the fundraising event, chaired by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour Even so, the remaining 25 percent of stock will give Mackenzie a fortune of $35.7billion, making her the fourth richest woman in the world. Unlike many of the celebrities on Monday night's red carpet, Bezos bypassed the theme 'Camp: Notes on Fashion' and opted for a classic black tuxedo. He stood in stark contrast to the Kardashians and Jared Leto, who wore a floor-length red silk gown while carrying a model of his own head. But the odd gang was happy to pose for photos together, with Kendall even carrying Leto's model head. Bezos also found time for a brief chat with Kanye as the pair appeared to crack a joke together The pair - who dressed in somber black outfits despite the gala's Camp theme - then posed for the cameras Bezos was also spotted swapping a few words with Kim before making his way inside Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour's fundraising event. Wintour has chaired the black-tie fundraiser for the museum's Costume Institute since 1995 and is meticulous in her planning of the event, where a single ticket costs a whopping $35,000. Despite the hefty price tag, she expects her A-list Met Gala guests to follow a strict set of guidelines while attending the exclusive bash. The annual event, which has been dubbed the 'Oscars of Fashion', corresponds with the opening of the museum's new spring fashion exhibit. While the gala is known as the 'Oscars of fashion' for its often outlandish outfits, Bezos did not seem keen to participate - arriving in a black tuxedo The Kardashian clan posed alongside Bezos, who seemed to be attending the event alone, five weeks after finalizing a divorce from his wife Its dress code always pays homage to the exhibition, which often leads to unforgettable red carpet looks. This year's theme is a nod to Susan Sontag's 1964 essay 'Notes on "Camp."' In the essay, the writer explains 'the essence of Camp is its love of the unnatural: of artifice and exaggeration.' Wintour signs off on every single guest, including those invited by designers who buy tables. She approves every detail including the seating charts and has been known to ban certain celebrities. A beauty therapist who was caught driving with marijuana in her system has claimed the drug helps ease her anxiety. Ellie Hawkins was stopped while driving on a probationary licence on the Bruce Highway in Yandina, 112km north of Brisbane, on March 4. The 25-year-old returned a positive roadside drug test, and it was later confirmed that she had smoked marijuana. Ellie Hawkins (pictured), 25, was caught driving on a probationary licence with marijuana in her system on March 4 Magistrate Haydn Stjernqvist told Hawkins that he believed the drug would make her more anxious, but she replied 'no', the Sunshine Coast Daily reported. Her licence indicated she had a previous conviction and had not yet paid the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) debt. Hawkins was fined $500 and disqualified from obtaining a driver's licence for three months. The news comes as New South Wales introduces strict new laws where anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs can immediately lose their licence. First time, low-range drink-drivers from May 20 will be slapped with an on-the-spot suspension of their licence for three months and a fine of $561. Drivers who have inhaled second-hand smoke are also at risk. From April 30, drivers in Victoria who return a low-range reading will also lose their licence. Victorian drivers will be required to complete a compulsory Behaviour Change Program and will need to get an alcohol interlock installed. Advertisement Australian's richest woman Gina Rinehart has shown that when it comes to flying, even the world's elite want to be as comfortable as possible. Mrs Rinehart, 65, threw the rules of everyday flying out the window by walking barefoot on the tarmac at a private airport in Perth on Monday. If not for her luxury jet, the billionaire mining tycoon could have been mistaken for any weary traveller making a late night arrival back in her hometown. Mrs Rinehart's arrival in Perth came ahead of a major win in her ongoing financial battle with two of her children in the High Court, which ruled the bitter family dispute should be heard behind closed doors - not in an open court. Scroll down for video Billionaire businesswoman Gina Rinehart (pictured) walked the tarmac at a private airport in Perth in barefeet this week The 65-year-old mining magnate had a sip of water after touching down in a private jet in her hometown late on Monday night With an estimated wealth of $14.8 billion, Mrs Rinehart holds the title as Australia's richest person. Her wealth is almost $5b ahead of the nation's second richest person, Harry Triguboff Some 48 hours before the High Court's decision, Mrs Rinehart walked off the plane wearing a flowing kaftan and leggings. An empty-handed Mrs Rinehart watched as three aides handled her luggage, including a bouquet of flowers, one bag full of Nespresso coffee pods and a trolley of dresses. Mrs Rinehart - who is worth an estimated $14.8billion - is the only daughter of mining magnate Lang Hancock and Hope Nicolas. She attended boarding school in Perth and studied economics at the University of Sydney, before dropping out to join the family business. When Mr Hancock died in 1992 she became chairman of his crumbling mining empire, but went about rebuilding it - eventually turning it into a global powerhouse. For more than a decade after her father's death Mrs Rinehart fought a legal battle with his third wife, Rose Porteous, over their claims to his estate. Now, more than a decade after that legal fight came to an end, she is battling her own two children who claim Mrs Rinehart mismanaged a family trust. Bianca Rinehart and John Hancock began legal proceedings against their mother in October 2014 alleging that she wrongfully transferred valuable mining assets from one trust into another. Mrs Rinehart's private jet touched down at the air base in Perth just after 11pm on Monday night, with the billionaire taking a moment before departing the plane Mrs Rinehart was born in Perth to parents Lang Hancock and Hope Nicholas, went to boarding school in Western Australia and attended the University of Sydney before returning to her home state to take over her father's mining business As she walked barefoot along the tarmac, one of her assistant's carried a bouquet of flowers and another carried a bag full of Nespresso products If not for her luxury jet, Australia's richest woman could have been mistaken for any other weary traveller casually making a late night arrival Another of Mrs Rinehart's assistant's wheeled a trolley containing dresses and other lavish outfits Who are the richest Australians? 1. Gina Rinehart $20.5 billion (Mining) 2. Harry Triguboff $12.5 billion (Real Estate) 3. Anthony Pratt $9.5 billion (Manufacturing) 4. Frank Lowy $9billion (Shopping Malls) 5. = Mike Cannon-Brooks $8.8 billion (Software) 5. = Scott Farquhar $8.8 billion (Software) 7. Andrew Forrest $6 billion (Mining) 8. John Gandel $5.5 billion (Shopping Malls) 9. James Packer $5 billion (Casinos) 10. Lindsay Fox $4.8 billion (Logistics, Real Estate) Source: Forbes Magazine. Figures in Australian dollars Advertisement The siblings claim their mother's actions diminished the value of their holdings in the trust. Mrs Rinehart had a major win in the case on Wednesday when The High Court ruled the financial fight should be heard in private arbitration. The main case is currently before the Federal Court, but Ms Rinehart and Mr Hancock were fighting the validity of agreements they signed that stated disputes over the trust should be heard behind closed doors. Ms Rinehart and Mr Hancock wanted the hearing heard in an open court. Mrs Rinehart relied on two deeds signed in 2006 and 2007 which purported to confer broad releases on her two children in exchange for financial benefits granted to them. Each of the deeds includes a clause referring 'any dispute under this deed' to confidential arbitration. Ms Rinehart and Mr Hancock challenged the validity of the arbitration clauses, on a range of grounds including misleading and deceptive conduct, false representations, material non-disclosures, undue influence and duress. Mrs Rinehart's arrival in Perth came less than 48 hours before the High Court ruled a current financial battle she is facing with two of her children - Bianca Rinehart and John Hancock - could be heard behind closed doors in private arbitration But the court found disputes as to the validity of certain deeds are subject to arbitral clauses in those deeds, so the proceedings will be fought out in private. It also allowed a cross-appeal, finding that three companies who were not parties to the deeds were 'parties' within NSW commercial arbitration laws. Ms Rinehart and Mr Hancock have been ordered to pay their mother's court costs. Shop owners claim out of control teenagers are continuing to run riot in their suburb and even think an arrest will boost their reputation. Vendors in Frankston, south-east Melbourne, claim the suburb is rampant with drinking, fighting and swearing. Delinquents as young as 12 are said to be terrorising the area around the train station and nearby stores. Terrified store owner Natalie Waterworth told Herald Sun even the threat of an arrest was not a deterrence, but a 'badge of honour'. Shop owners claim out of control teenagers are continuing to run riot in their suburb and even think an arrest will boost their reputation (stock image) Vendors in Frankston, south-east Melbourne claim the suburb is rampant with drinking, fighting and swearing (pictured, shops sitting opposite the train station at Frankston) 'They are a nightmare theyre just lawless,' she said. Ms Waterworth said that she has been left frightened at the scale of the violence. Another trader, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed the issue had gotten out of hand. The violence in the area has already sparked a meeting between council officials and traders. 'We are seeing an attitude from young people who dont have anything better to do with their time than hang around Frankston and create mayhem and havoc,' Frankston councillor Steve Toms said. 'Its unacceptable and not what our city centre should be about.' Frankston Traders' Association president John Billing called for problematic youth to be taken off the streets for the sake of the residents in the area. 'Many of these youths need guidance, support and help to find their calling in life,' he said. Senior Sergeant Warren Francis-Pester said officers are regularly fielded in the area to patrol the streets. 'We task people to work there we are working with the council and traders to ensure public order exists there.' A grieving mother has filed a lawsuit against online marketplace retailer Etsy, after her son was strangled to death by a teething product sold on the website. One-year-old Deacon Morin was found dead at his daycare center in Fontana, California, on December 10, 2016, after a necklace he was wearing tightened around his throat and suffocated him. The toddlers mother, Danielle Morin, has now filed a lawsuit against Etsy claiming them to be culpable in her sons death for selling the faulty product, which is supposed to have a safety clasp that releases when the chain pulled. Described as a Baltic amber teething necklace for babies on the e-commerce site, Danielle says she received the chain which is supposed to relieve teething pain - as a gift from a close friend. Danielle Morin, has now filed a lawsuit against Etsy claiming them to be culpable in her sons death Deacon Morin, one, was found dead at his daycare center in Fontana, California, on December 10, 2016 after he was strangled by his teething necklace (pictured wearing it) Instead of a magnetic clasp Deacons necklace had a screw-in mechanism, meaning he couldnt easily free himself when he became fatally entangled. According to CBSLA, Danielle has sued the Lithuanian company that made the necklace, as well as Etsy, which acts as an online marketplace for craft sellers. As part of its terms and conditions, Etsy says the items in our marketplaces are produced, listed, and sold directly by independent sellers so Etsy cannot and does not make any warranties about their quality, safety, or even their legality. Any legal claim related to an item you purchase must be brought directly against the seller of the item. You release Etsy from any claims related to items sold through our services.' Danielle has sued the Lithuanian company that made the necklace, as well as Etsy, which acts as an online marketplace for craft sellers However Danielles attorney, John Carpenter, claims the website is culpable because his client never agree to these legal disclosure as she received the necklace as a gift. It scares me for other parents, Danielle told CBSLA. I want parents to know there is no more ToysRUs and people need to go online to buy products and these products are dangerous products arent always safe. No parent should have to bury their child. In a statement, Etsy extended their sympathies to baby Deacon's family but insisted that as a marketplace, rather than the manufacturer of the product, culpability for his death lies elsewhere. 'Deacons death was a great tragedy and our hearts are with his mother and family. While we understand the desire to take action, Etsy is a platform and did not make or directly sell this item,' a spokesperson told DailyMail.com. 'We believe the allegations should be directed at the criminally-negligent daycare providers or, if appropriate, the seller of the necklace. The seller has not had any products on our website since last year and we do not represent the seller in any way.' A woman who was working at Bunnings when she was crushed by a box of broom handles still needs crutches to get about and wears a brace on her wrist almost 10 years after the workplace accident. Robyn Handasyde was photographed this week outside her Glen Waverley home still bearing the scars of her ordeal. Victorian WorkCover Authority has lodged a half-a-million dollar writ and statement of claim with the Supreme Court of Victoria arguing Bunnings breached its duty of care to the seriously injured worker. Robyn Handasyde was restocking shelves at a Bunnings shop in Scoresby when a box of broom handles was dropped on her. She sustained life-long injuries in the accident which sees her still getting about on crutches today Bunnings is being sued for more than half-a-million dollars over claims it failed to meet its duty of care to a worker who was crushed by a box of broom handles Bunnings brooms are a popular item at the hardware store. But the handles are responsible for a half-a-million dollar claim against the retail giant amid claims a box of them fell on a worker Daily Mail Australia caught up with Ms Handasyde at her home today where she remained tight-lipped on the looming court battle. Picking up a small dog and locking it away in another room, Ms Handasyde returned to the front door to collect her crutch. She had been employed by cleaning company E D Oates on May 5, 2010 and was in the process of restocking shelves with its products at the Scoresby Bunnings - in Melbourne's southeast - when the broom handles fell. 'I don't have any comment,' Ms Handasyde said. Her husband said he wanted it made clear his wife was not directly suing the company. 'Robyn isn't suing them. It's VWA and Robyn has never claimed to be an employee of Bunnings - she worked for a company called Oates,' he said. The couple said they were content to let the matter be dealt with through the appropriate legal channels. 'I don't want to be in the paper anymore. I don't want to be online. I don't want people ringing me from all over Australia,' Ms Handasyde said. Court documents obtained by Daily Mail Australia claim Ms Handasyde was carrying out her duties when a Bunnings employee driving a mechanical lifting machine dropped or dislodged a heavy box of broom handles on top of her. The box smashed down upon Ms Handasyde's neck and shoulders, causing her serious injuries. Robyn Handasyde outside her Glen Waverley this week. She still needs to carry a crutch and wears a brace on her wrist after she was crushed by a box inside a Bunnings Warehouse in 2010 Robyn Handasyde carries a bag, drink bottle and her crutch to her car outside her Glen Waverley home. Victorian WorkCover Authority claims Bunnings owed her a duty of care when she was injured restocking shelves VWA barristers claim Ms Handasyde was left with life-long injuries which also led to her further breaking her ankle. They claim Bunnings failed in its duty of care to the worker to ensure she was not injured while carrying out her job. 'The accident was caused as a result of negligence and/or breach of statutory duty of the Defendant, its servants or agents,' a Statement of Claim reads. VWA alleges Bunnings failed to comply with various sections of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. A breakdown of Ms Handasyde's claim declares Bunnings ought pay her $365, 227 in lost earnings since she sustained the injury. Victorian Workcover Authority claims a box of broom handles fell off a mechanical lifting machine (similar to that pictured) and landed on a woman's neck and shoulder The Scoresby Bunnings in Melbourne's southeast where Robyn Handasyde claims she was seriously injured in 2010. Bunnings is now being sued for damages in the Supreme Court of Victoria The remainder of her claim is made-up of costly medical bills and rehabilitation. However, VWA warns the hardware giant could be up for even more compensation up until the matter is dealt with at trial. All up, Bunnings is looking down the barrel of a $503,937 payout - not including its own legal expenses, which could run into the hundreds of thousands. But if Bunnings' response to the claim is any indication, the matter looks set to be dragged out at trial in the Supreme Court. In a defence letter filed by Bunnings' legal team, the company refutes practically all of the allegations made against it, including a claim that Ms Handasyde was even 'a worker' at the time. However, it accepted she did make an injury claim on May 26, 2010. Bunnings' take on health and safety recently hit the headlines when it took a hard-line stance on how to construct sausage sandwich. The sausage sanga has become a staple for many of its customers across the country. Bunnings took a hard line on the way sausage sangas were to be sold by community groups outside its hardware shops. It caused a social media meltdown last November when it ordered onions to be placed beneath the sausage instead of on top Last November, Bunnings ordered the onion on its sausages could no longer be placed on top of the sausage because fallen onion posed a tripping hazard. 'Safety is always our number one priority and we recently introduced a suggestion that onion be placed underneath sausages to help prevent the onion from falling out and creating a slipping hazard,' Bunnings chief operating officer Debbie Poole said at the time. The move was widely panned across social media with one vexed user summing up the mood by tweeting: 'Jesus, Mary, what the f***?'. A Greens candidate has quit after being caught posting vile Facebook comments about Asians, gays and women. Jay Dessi, who was running in the safe Labor seat of Lalor in Melbourne's western suburbs, had five years ago posted a social media comment mocking an Asian man wearing a Kermit the Frog beanie. 'Which eyes are the real eyes?,' he said in June 2014, getting three likes. A Greens candidate has been sacked for posting vile Facebook comments about Asians, gays and women That wasn't the only nasty Facebook post, with Mr Dessi liking an anti-gay meme featuring a young boy. 'Unrealistic? No guns? This game is for f****ts,' it said. 'Clearly sex is for f****ts.' He also made a sexist joke about women next to a cartoon image of weatherman predicting it would rain. 'That's what she said,' he posted in February 2015. Jay Dessi, who was running in the safe Labor seat of Lalor in Melbourne's western suburbs, had five years ago posted a social media comment mocking an Asian man wearing a Kermit the Frog beanie That wasn't the only nasty Facebook post, with liking an anti-gay meme featuring a young boy The sexism didn't end there, with Mr Dessi insinuating women were stupid next to a Facebook image of more than a dozen items in a 12 items or less grocery checkout. 'Hopefully they short-changed her. "You sure you can count",' he said. CANDIDATES WHO HAVE RESIGNED OR BEEN SACKED SO FAR Jessica Whelan (Liberal, TAS) - Facebook comments about Muslims Luke Creasey (Labor, VIC) - Rape jokes and memes on social media Jeremy Hearn (Liberal, VIC) - Anti-Muslim Facebook posts Wayne Kurnoth (Labor, NT) - Anti-Semitic Facebook posts Peter Killin (Liberal, VIC) - Homophobic blog posts, insulting Tim Wilson Murray Angus (Liberal, VIC) - Breaking party rules Melissa Parke (Labor, WA) - Anti-Israel comments Steve Dickson (One Nation, QLD) - Strip club scandal ELIGIBILITY PROBLEMS: Kate Oski (Liberal, VIC) - Citizenship doubts Vaishali Gosh (Liberal, VIC) - Citizenship doubts Helen Jackson (Liberal, VIC) - Public servant Sam Kayal (Liberal, NSW) - Citizenship doubts Courtney Nguyen (Liberal, NSW) -citizenship doubts Mary Ross (Labor, NSW) - Citizenship doubts James Harker-Mortlock (Nationals, NSW) - Citizenship doubts Advertisement He had also liked a Facebook meme which bizarrely equated an ultrasound with child pornography if 'abortion is considered murdering a baby'. Then there was another racist post, featuring a meme of an African child living among landmines. 'Doesn't own a computer. Can still play Minesweeper,' a post he had liked said. He also mocked poor people on trains. 'Weekday peak hour but with more of the unwashed,' he said on Facebook, next to a picture of commuters. Mr Dessi's Facebook page was shut down on Wednesday afternoon, with the Greens' Victorian branch vowing to remove campaign posters. Greens leader Richard Di Natale has released a statement announcing Mr Dessi had quit as his party's candidate. 'These posts are clearly unacceptable and Jay Dessi has given an unreserved apology to anyone they may have offended,' the senator said. 'I have now been advised that he has stood down as candidate for Lalor.' Mr Dessi also released a statement announcing he had quit the race for the seat, previously held by former prime minister Julia Gillard. 'I am electing to step down from being the Greens candidate for the division of Lalor,' he said. 'I again apologise for offence that my posts may have caused. ' Mr Dessi, however will still appear on the ballot paper as the Greens candidate at the May 18 election, as nominations closed on April 23. His political embarrassment occurred just five days after Labor disendorsed its candidate for Melbourne, Luke Creasey, for 2012 Facebook posts which joked about raping women. The Greens member for Melbourne Adam Bandt had demanded Labor sack his opponent. Then there was another racist post, featuring a meme of an African child living among landmines Mr Creasey had joked about watching a female friend have sex with several people and wanting somebody to 'roughly take her virginity'. He also shared a meme, sending up the Carly Rae Jepsen hit, 'Call Me Maybe', which had the words: 'Hey I just met you / If you don't date me / You'll go to prison / I'll say you raped me'. Mr Dessi's disendorsement occurred a day after it was revealed another Greens candidate in the vast Northern Territory electorate of Lingiari, George Hanna, who is indigenous, described his indigenous Country Liberal rival Jacinta Price as a 'coconut'. Coconut is a racist term used to describe someone who has dark skin but 'acts white', but Mr Hanna has declined to give an unqualified apology. With the Labor and Liberal parties also sacking candidates over old Facebook posts, the Victorian Greens acknowledged the challenges of social media when it came to scrutinising prospective candidates. The controversy didn't end there, with Mr Dessi insinuating women were stupid next to Facebook image of more than a dozen items in a 12 items or less grocery checkout He had also liked a Facebook meme which bizarrely equated an ultrasound with child pornography if 'abortion is considered murdering a baby' He also mocked poor people on trains. 'Weekday peak hour but with more of the unwashed,' he said on Facebook, next to a picture of commuters 'This election has made it clear that social media has created new challenges for all parties in the candidate selection process, particularly for younger candidates who have grown up using social media,' it said in a statement. The Greens were dogged by sexist Facebook posts during last year's Victorian election but on Wednesday it admitted it had not overcome preselecting a bad candidate for the federal election. 'Following the Victorian election, the Australian Greens provided additional resources to state parties to assist in the vetting of social media profiles,' it said. 'As a grassroots organisation, we do rely upon the assistance of candidates during this process. 'In this instance, some unsavoury comments from several years ago were not identified. The Victorian Greens apologise for this error.' Another Greens candidate in the vast Northern Territory electorate of Lingiari, George Hanna, who is indigenous, described his indigenous Country Liberal rival Jacinta Price as a 'coconut' Late last month, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson's Queensland Senate candidate Steve Dickson quit after Al Jazeera footage was aired on A Current Affair showing him making disparaging comments about Asian women during a visit to a Washington DC strip club. Jessica Whelan quit as a Liberal Party candidate in the Tasmanian seat of Lyons earlier this month after it emerged she had posted anti-Muslim comments on social media. Last week, another Liberal candidate who made anti-Muslim comments, Jeremy Hearn, withdrew from contesting the Melbourne Labor-held seat of Isaacs. In another Melbourne seat, Peter Killin, last month pulled out of the race for Wills after it emerged he had made anti-gay comments about homosexual Liberal MP Tim Wilson. A Portland man has been sentenced to four months in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to trying to bribe an ICE officer to deport his Salvadoran wife and her daughter while they were getting divorced. Antonio Burgos, 48, was arrested last June after approaching an ICE officer in Vancouver, Washington, in the street. He had followed the officer out of his office and stopped him to ask if he would consider deporting his wife and her daughter, neither of whom has been named, in exchange for money. He told him that he had sponsored his wife's residency in the United States after they got married in El Salvador but that now that the were separating, he wanted her out of the country. Antonio Burgos, 48, last year approached an ICE officer in Vancouver, Washington and offered him $4,000 to deport his Salvadoran wife and her daughter. An ICE agent is seen in the above file image There is no record of her at the address he is listed to and her name has not been released by authorities. The ICE officer refused him then reported it to the Office of Professional Responsibility which launched a sting operation to catch him. As part of it, the ICE officer got back in touch with Burgos over the phone. Burgos, who runs a car dealership in Portland, offered $3,000 to deport her. They arranged to meet in person in June to discuss it further. That time, Burgos offered $4,000 and asked for the woman's daughter to be deported with her. He gave him $2,000 in cash and said he would give the other $2,000 once she was gone. He was arrested after that encounter and was charged with bribery of a public official, a felony crime which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. Neither ICE nor the Department of Justice, which announced the case last week, would provide details of his wife's legal status when approached by DailyMail.com. It is unknown how long they had been married and why they have separated. It also remains unclear if she is still in the country or if it was even necessary for him to go to such extreme lengths to have her deported. Whether or not the divorce would have ensured her deportation in itself is unclear. A spouse whose visa relies on their marriage can only apply for permanent residency themselves after two years of them entering the country. It remains unclear if she ever filed for residency or if she was ever granted it. Lawyers for billionaire Justin Hemmes have attempted to freeze the assets of one of the pub baron's deputies. Lawyers from Johnson Winter & Slattery, acting on behalf of Mr Hemmes, applied for Joel Cheeseman's assets to be frozen last week, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. Mr Cheeseman is a construction project manager at Merivale, Mr Hemmes' company which owns 73 pubs and hotels in Sydney, including The Ivy, Coogee Pavilion and the Newport Arms. The dispute between Mr Hemmes and Mr Cheeseman is reportedly centred around allegations of misleading and deceptive conduct and breach of contract. Lawyers for billionaire Justin Hemmes (pictured with ex-girlfriend Kate Fowler) have attempted to freeze the assets of one of the pub baron's deputies Mr Cheeseman is a construction project manager at Merivale, Mr Hemmes' company which owns 73 pubs and hotels in Sydney, including The Ivy, Coogee Pavilion (pictured) and the Newport Arms The dispute between Mr Hemmes and Mr Cheeseman is reportedly centred around allegations of misleading and deceptive conduct and breach of contract. Pictured: The Ivy Merivale is also reportedly chasing Mr Cheeseman for a breach of fiduciary duty - a failure to put another person's interests before their own - and for Mr Cheeseman to provide bank statements and correspondence related to transferring funds since August 2015. Mr Cheeseman has worked for Mr Hemmes since August 2015, and has been responsible for running major projects. Earlier this week, Mr Hemmes hosted senior Liberal Party figures at his Sydney mansion in a fundraiser for their election campaign. The 45-year-old held a cocktail party at his sprawling residence known as The Hermitage in the exclusive eastern Sydney suburb of Vaucluse on Monday night. Wealthy attendees reportedly forked out $3,300 each to be there - and a select few paid $13,750 to have dinner with Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who arrived at 6pm. Accompanying their leader were several senior Liberals including party president Nick Greiner, Communications Minister Mitch Fifield and Small Business Minister Michaelia Cash. Social Services Minister Paul Fletcher and Trade Minister Simon Birmingham also made an appearance, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. Prominent Liberal Party supporters who attended included Seven West executive Bruce McWilliam and PremierState lobbyist Michael Photios. The 45-year-old held a cocktail party at his sprawling residence (pictured) known as The Hermitage in Vaucluse, Sydney Also chipping in to the Liberal Party coffers were SCG Trust and Western Sydney Giants chairman Tony Shepherd and members of construction tycoon Tony Sukkar's family. Pub and hotel owner Mr Hemmes has hosted fundraisers for the Liberal Party several times before. Mr Hemmes has been in charge of the group since 1997 and is assisted by his sister Bettina, who is part owner of the empire started by his father, John Hemmes. John named the company after his wife. Mr Hemmes' fortune reached $1.05billion earlier this year. He came close to making the billionaire's list last year but his fortune fell short at an estimated $951million in May. His net worth four years ago was estimated at $200million. Mr Hemmes has been dubbed one of Australia's most eligible bachelors after the businessman split from the mother of his two children, Kate Fowler, last year. Earlier this month, he denied reports he was seeing model Montana Cox. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has revealed what gifts she will give to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son on behalf of New Zealand. Meghan was rushed to hospital by Prince Harry and their Scotland Yard security team on Sunday night and gave birth to her baby boy on Monday at 5.26am, weighing 3.26kg. The New Zealand Government will donate to two charity organisations in their name as the royal family cannot accept material gifts. 'We'll be making a donation to Little Sprouts, which is an organisation that prepares baby boxes for families in need,' Ms Ardern told Newshub. 'We'll also be purchasing 10 native trees that will be planted as part of trees that count especially for newborn babies and I think they're planted around the time of Matariki.' Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (left) has revealed what gifts she will give to the Duke (middle) and Duchess (right) of Sussex's son on behalf of New Zealand 'I hope New Zealanders think those are suitable gifts on their behalf in recognition of the new baby,' she said. The name of the royal baby is yet to be revealed and it is not known if Harry and Meghan have made settled on one. The Sussexes announced last month that they wanted to keep the details of the birth of their first child private. Prince Harry confirmed the birth of their son and later confessed he only had a few hours of sleep, suggesting Meghan had been in labour overnight. Harry and Meghan's son is seventh in line to the British throne. Meghan (left) was dashed to hospital by Harry (right) and their Scotland Yard security team on Sunday and gave birth to her baby boy on Monday at 5.26am, weighing 3.26kg An Irish couple who have been living in Australia for ten years and face deportation because of their sick son have been given hope after their case was reviewed. Anthony and Christine Hyde, from Dublin, migrated in 2009 and are living in the town of Seymour, Victoria, along with their son Darragh, three, who was born in Australia. The family had their application for permanent residency rejected in 2015 after their son was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and his potential treatment was assessed as too burdensome on the taxpayer. Anthony and Christine Hyde moved from Dublin in 2009 and are living in a small town of Seymour, Victoria, with their son The couple appealed the decision and their case was heard by the Administrative Review Tribunal on Tuesday, where it was ruled to meet the criteria for a ministerial intervention. 'It is good news, this is what we were hoping for,' Mrs Hyde told Nine News. 'Of course, there is still a huge, huge battle ahead of us. But in terms of those barriers that we have, this is one of them and we have gotten through that first barrier, which is great.' The Department of Home Affairs will now decide whether the case should be put before the minister. They faced being deported because their son was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and treatment could cost taxpayer money Meanwhile more than 30 criminals ranging from a wife murderer and sex offenders to armed robbers and drug traffickers have been allowed to stay in Australia, despite having their visas cancelled It also gave the current immigration minister, David Coleman, the power to intervene at anytime, Ms Hyde said. Mr Hyde is a part-time bus driver while Ms Hyde is an assistant principal at the local primary school. They have set up a petition, which has almost 6,000 signatures and they hope to draw attention to their story and avoid being deported. 'Please sign and help us ask the Minister to let our son stay in Australia,' they said. Meanwhile more than 30 criminals ranging from a wife murderer and sex offenders to armed robbers and drug traffickers have been allowed to stay in Australia, despite having their visas cancelled. Over the last 10 months, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) has overturned 34 decisions made by delegates for the Home Affairs and Immigration ministers involving serious offenders. Among those given the green light, are Kenyan-born killer Paul Jason Margach, who was jailed after he repeatedly stabbed his wife Tina in front of one of their young children at their Melbourne home in 2004. Convicted African-born sex offender Malipo Muyobe also had his visa cancellation overruled, as did an unnamed Chinese triad organised crime gang member jailed for 13 years for trafficking a commercial quality of ecstasy and possession of ice. Mauritian stalker Jean Marie Amoorthum, who was convicted of stalking and threatening a young female with a knife, also had his cancellation overturned. Statistics from AAT's latest annual report show that the tribunal only affirmed 35 per cent, or 4,432, of the migration visa decisions made by ministerial delegates in 2017-18. The latest cases are on top of 164 criminals saved from deportation by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal between 2010 and 2018. Out of the previous cases, eight were convicted of murder, 23 were found guilty of armed robbery, 33 were drug dealers, 17 were rapists and eight were convicted of murder. A Taliban faction have claimed responsibility for a suicide bomb that has killed at least 10 and injured 24 people outside a Muslim shrine in Pakistan. The blast was at one of Pakistan's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines in the eastern city of Lahore as the country marks the beginning of Ramadan. Officers said they are still investigating the nature of the explosion, which happened near the entrance gate for female visitors to the 11th-century Data Darbar shrine, one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia. The attack comes as an international NGO and the attorney general's office in Afghanistan was also targeted by a Taliban bomb. At least nine people were injured in the blast that saw smoke and flames rising above the Kabul sky. Authorities in Pakistan believe a police vehicle near the scene was the target of the attack and an unconfirmed number of the victims were officers. A police vehicle outside the Sufi Muslim Data Gunj Buksh shrine in Lahore which authorities believe was the target of the suicide attack Officials said a security vehicle deployed in the area appeared to be the target Flames rise after a bomb blast near the office of a Non-Government Organisation and attorney general's office, in Kabul The number of victims is expected to rise as many are in hospital in a critical condition. A Taliban faction claimed responsibility just hours after the attack, the militants said in a statement. Abdul Aziz Yousafzai, spokesman for the Hizbul Ahrar militant group, a faction of the Pakistani Taliban said: 'This attack was carried out at a time when there were no civilians near the police. Ashfaq Khan, deputy inspector general of police operations in Lahore, confirmed police were the target of the bomb. He said: 'Police was the prime target in this attack. We are collecting forensic evidences to ascertain the nature of the blast. 'This attack was carried out at a time when there were no civilians near the police.' TV footage showed a badly damaged police vehicle that authorities said was the target. Lahore police chief Ghazanfar Ali said some pilgrims and passers-by were among those wounded and that the death toll could rise as some of the victims are in critical condition. An injured man covered in blood and talking on his mobile phone after an explosion in Kabul There were multiple casualties in the blast at the 11th century Data Darbar, one of the oldest and most popular Sufi shrines in Pakistan He said: 'It seems police officers who were doing their routine duty outside the Data Darbar shrine were the target.' Wreckage of vehicles littered the pavement near the shrine as first responders rushed to the scene and armed security forces fanned out in the area. Witness Ritat Shahid described seeing pieces of flesh fall in front of her, and added that the blast 'sounded so big that we felt like our ears will burst'. She added: 'As we crossed the road a blast took place in front of us.' The emergency room at the Mayo Hospital in Lahore was crowded with the wounded, and people searching for loved ones, an AFP reporter saw. Among them was Azra Bibi, whose son Muhammad Shahid cares for visitors' shoes - which must be removed before entering. He has been missing since the blast, she said. Taliban overruns international NGO office in Kabul attack Taliban militants today overran a central Kabul compound housing an international aid organisation in the latest assault to rock the war-torn city. The attack comes as the US and Taliban representatives continue negotiations in Qatar aimed at bringing an end to the nearly 18-year-old conflict, while fighting continues to rage across Afghanistan. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the latest attack began with an explosion near the offices of Counterpart International, an NGO with operations in Afghanistan. Smokes rising after a huge explosion near the offices of the attorney general in Kabul, Afghanistan, today Officials earlier wrongly identified the target as the nearby CARE International. 'Some attackers have entered the NGO's compound. The police have surrounded the area and a clearing operation is ongoing,' Rahimi said. In a tweet, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said Counterpart was involved in 'harmful' activities in Afghanistan, and was linked to USAID. Wahidullah Mayar, the spokesman for the ministry of public health, said at least nine people had been wounded. Witnesses said the explosion shook nearby buildings and shattered windows. 'We started running out of the building and while running outside I heard small gunfire and the sound of grenades going off nearby,' said Akbar Khan Sahadat, a prosecutor in the Attorney General's office which was close to the scene of the blast. Advertisement Referring to the attackers, she said: 'They are not Muslims. They even targeted worshippers.' Husks of vehicles littered the pavement near the shrine while armed security forces fanned out in the area. The shrine has long been home to colourful Sufi festivals and a prime destination for the country's myriad Muslim sects, making it a soft target for militant attacks. It has been targeted previously, in a 2010 suicide attack which killed more than 40 people. Since then the area has been increasingly hemmed in by heavy security, with visitors forced to pass through several layers of screening before they can enter the complex. Sufi worshippers, who follow a mystical strain of Islam, have frequently been the target of bloody attacks in Pakistan by Islamist militants - including the Islamic State group -- who consider Sufi beliefs and rituals at the graves of Muslim saints as heresy. Senior police official Muhammad Ashfaq told a press conference that the security personnel at the shrine were targeted, but stressed that the cause of the blast remains under investigation. Three police officials, a security guard and a civilian were killed, he added. Provincial health minister Yasmin Rashid confirmed the toll. The blast may have been 'a suicide attack' on a security vehicle, added police official Muhammad Kashif. Pakistan's push against extremism was stepped up after the country's deadliest ever attack, an assault on a school in Peshawar in 2014 that left more than 150 people dead -- mostly children. Since then, security has dramatically improved but militants retain the ability to carry out dramatic attacks. Major urban centres such as Lahore, Pakistan's second largest city and the provincial capital of its wealthiest province, Punjab, are not immune. An attack in the city in March last year left nine people dead, while a major blast targeting Christians celebrating Easter in a park in 2016 killed more than 70 people. Critics have long argued the military and government crackdown has not addressed the root causes of extremism in Pakistan, where hardline Muslim groups often target religious minorities. The Data Darbar complex contains the shrine of Saint Syed Ali bin Osman Al-Hajvery, popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh. Originally from Afghanistan, he was one of the most popular Sufi preachers on the subcontinent. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the shrine each spring to mark his death anniversary, while it is also crowded weekly with worshippers listening to qawwali, a traditional form of Islamic devotional music. The latest bomb comes the Taliban also targeted an NGO in Kabul nand overran the compound. Taliban political spokesman Suhail Shaheen said earlier this week that the latest round of peace talks between US and Taliban representatives had been bogged down over the issue of when foreign forces might withdraw in return for the Taliban security guarantees. Pakistani security officials inspect the scene of a suicide bomb attack that targeted a police vehicle outside the Sufi Muslim Data Gunj Buksh shrine in Lahore The blast happened in the eastern city of Lahore, Pakistan The two foes are hammering out a deal that could see foreign forces leave Afghanistan in return for a ceasefire, talks between the government and the Taliban, and a guarantee the country will not be used as a safe haven for terror groups. The talks follow a massive peace summit in Kabul last week where President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban a ceasefire to begin on the first day of Ramadan, but the insurgents refused. The Taliban have rebuffed repeated calls to halt fighting over the last year as they seek to gain leverage at the negotiating table by pressing the fight on the battlefield. Last year the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire at the end of Ramadan after Ghani declared a unilateral truce for eight days earlier in the month. It was first formal nationwide ceasefire since the US-led invasion of 2001 and saw unprecedented scenes of reconciliation and jubilation across the country. Since then the insurgents have steadfastly refused to talk to Ghani, who they view as a US puppet, and talks thus far have cut out his government. Meanwhile, Afghanistan's war rages on, with thousands of civilians and fighters being killed each year. US forces continue to train Afghan partners on the ground and strike the Taliban from the air in a bid to push the war to a political settlement. The Prime Minister is branded 'pathetic' by top Brexit negotiators from the European Parliament in a new film about talks between Britain and the EU. Brexit: Behind Closed Doors shows a team led by Guy Verhofstadt branding her 'insane' and laughing at the UK. Verhofstadt's chief of staff, Guillaume McLaughlin, responds to the news that a Brexit deal is no longer possible because the PM hasn't cleared it with the DUP, with a foul-mouthed rant. Theresa May (left) is mocked and branded 'insane' by a member of team led by Guy Verhofstadt (right) The series features negotiators ridiculing Britain and Theresa May, who is referred to as insane, pathetic and ridiculous He says: 'What the f*** is wrong with her. Thats insane. "I dont know, I havent spoken to her?" Thats ridiculous. Pathetic, pathetic.' The fly-on-the-wall BBC documentary shows him scream 'oh f*** off' at a TV screen showing Mrs May telling the Tory conference she wants a deal as Edel Rettman Crosse, Verhofstadts top aide, backs him up. Michel Barnier (pictured) suggests that the bloc negotiates with someone stable, available and reliable, much to the amusement of Guy Verhofstadt Theresa May (left) is mocked in the series, which shows Verhofstadt's top aide suggesting that a Leave-supporting be 'shood' out After Leave-supporting Andrew Rosindell MP argues with Verhofstadt over the Irish border, Crosse tells Verhofstadt: 'Im most proud of you when you take on a Tory, he was a f***er' and adds he should 'shoo the f***er' out. The two-part BBC4 series starts tonight and also shows top negotiator Michel Barnier mocking Britain. Michel Barnier (pictured at the EU Parliament) features in the series, which shows top negotiators mocking Britain It also features Verhodstadt commenting on Mrs May's infamous twerk to Dancing Queen as an Italian MEP suggests Barnier's theme should be The Winner Takes It All. Roberto Gualtieri, member of the Brexit Steering Group, suggests that Barnier should use the song, to which Verhofstadt says 'that would be sexier'. The series also reveals disparaging comments by German Christian Democract MEP Elmar Brok, who says the EU must not help the UK while it is 'in a mess'. It was created by filmmaker Lode Desmet, who is Belgian and had exclusive access to Verhofstadt and his team for two years. In his series, Michel Barnier speculates as to who the EU should negotiate with in the talks. He asks whether it should be Brexit Secretary David Davis or Downing Street adviser and suggests it should be someone 'stable, available and reliable'. Verhofstadt jokes that the bloc cannot ask to much of Britain. Top aides lay into Theresa May in a documentary that gave exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to journalists May is branded 'pathetic' by people working to negotiate a deal between the EU and UK as it prepares to leave the bloc Crash investigators have recovered the cockpit voice recorder from a jet that crashed into a Florida river during a botched landing on Friday night. The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed the news on Tuesday, saying that divers had retrieved the device from St Johns River, four days days after the plane plunged into the waters while attempting to arrive at Naval Air Station, Jacksonville. None of the 143 people onboard sustained serious injuries during the crash, but 21 people had to be taken to local hospitals. A dog and two cats died in the cargo hold. On Tuesday morning, a barge and crate began removing the Miami Air International aircraft from the river. The plane will be transported to a secure location so investigators can continue piecing together how the accident happened. Investigators confirmed Tuesday that the voice recorder from the Miami Air International plane that crashed into St Johns River has been recovered It comes just two days after a passenger recounted the terrifying landing with CNN. Cheryl Bormann, a civilian defense attorney, was on the military-chartered plane, which was returning from Guantanamo Bay. She said the plane was thrashed with thunder and lightning as it began its descent. 'It was clear that the pilot did not have complete control of the plane because it bounced some more, it swerved and tilted left and right,' Bormann told the network. 'The pilot was trying to control it but couldn't, and then all of a sudden it smashed into something.' A Miami Air Boeing 737 was returning from Guantanamo Bay when it ended up in St Johns River in Jacksonville, Florida following a botched landing at Naval Air Station Captain Michael Connor, commanding officer of NAS Jacksonville, said the fact that nobody died during the crash on Friday night was a 'miracle' Bormann said the plane was hit with thunder and lightning as it flew from Guantanamo Bay to Florida. When the plane hit the ground, it bounced. Then it bounced again The Boeing 737 crashed into St Johns River just after 9.30pm but was not fully submerged in the water. Bormann said the impact of the crash caused overhead bins to pop open, sending many people's belongings flying all over the plane. Following the crash, the passengers had no idea if they were in a river or the ocean. Those on board included children, grandparents, and families all connected to the military. But Bormann said the entire plane remained calm thanks to the seven crew members on board, who were quick to give passengers directions. The Boeing 737 crashed into St Johns River just after 9.30pm but was not fully submerged in the water. The plane is pictured here on Saturday Following the crash, the passengers had no idea if they were in a river or the ocean. Those on board included children, grandparents, and families all connected to the military Bormann said the passengers and crew all helped each other put on their life vests and climb out onto the wing so they could get onto the safety raft. Captain Michael Connor, the commanding officer of NAS Jacksonville, said the fact that nobody died during the crash was a 'miracle'. 'I think it is a miracle. We could be talking about a different story this evening,' he said during a press conference. He said crews began working to contain any jet fuel leaks almost immediately after securing the passengers' safety. Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry kept citizens updated on the situation as it unfolded, revealing that the White House has called to offer its assistance. The 18-year-old Miami Air International jet sustained minimal damage. The cause of the botched landing continues be investigated. Drawing inspiration from Stormy Daniels, Roger Stone is helping pay for his legal defense with a strip club appearance. But Stone kept his clothes on during his appearance at Papermoon Southside Gentlemen's Club in Richmond, Virginia on Saturday night. Stone happily met with fans and signed autographs, even scribbling his name on strippers' derrieres. Mike Dickinson, the club's director of special events, estimates that Stone raised money in the high five-figures from his appearance. Roger Stone raised money for his legal defense with an appearance at Papermoon Southside Gentleman's Club in Richmond, Virginia on Saturday night Stone met with fans and signed autographs, even scribbling his name on strippers' derrieres Stone, Donald Trump's former political adviser, was one of the men indicted in the probe of the president's possible collusion with Russia in the 2016 presidential election campaign. He has been accused of soliciting stolen emails from WikiLeaks that could have helped Trump's campaign. Stone, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges, is currently out on $250,000 bail. Dickinson said Stone was paid a flat flee to show up at the club and do a quick meet-and-greet with fans, who paid $25 to get in, according to TMZ. The ticket fee came with a photograph with Stone as well as an autograph. Stone appeared with his longtime associate Kristin Davis, the 'Manhattan Madam', at the event on Saturday (pictured together with a fan) Mike Dickinson, the club's director of special events, estimates that Stone raised money in the high five-figures from his appearance Stone happily danced with his fans as he partied at the strip club on Saturday night He and Davis posed for a photo together in their limo on the way to the strip club on Saturday Davis ran an escort ring that former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer allegedly hired from Stone appeared with his longtime associate Kristin Davis, the 'Manhattan Madam' who ran an escort ring that former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer allegedly hired. The gig brings Stone full circle after he famously went to a Miami club in 2008 to obtain information about Spitzer and the sex workers. Last month Dickinson said he wasn't worried about potential violence breaking out at the nightlife venue during Stone's appearance. Stone had sparked outrage when he was recently seen on video taking part in an initiation rite with the Proud Boys. A member of the group claimed to have stabbed three anti-fascist men at a recent event. Dickinson said Stone was paid a flat flee to show up at the club (pictured) and do a quick meet-and-greet with fans, who paid $25 to get in The Proud Boys claim they only fight in 'self-defense' but regularly glorify violence. Dickinson also told Daily Beast that he was a liberal despite recently saying he wanted to deport all anti-fascists that complained about Stone's appearance at the club. He added to the publication that his willingness to host Stone didn't suggest the club would have just anyone. 'We wouldn't host Bin Laden, we wouldn't host Ted Bundy,' he said after sharing that Donald Trump was welcome. Stone has been accused of soliciting stolen emails from WikiLeaks that could have helped Trump's campaign. He is pictured here leaving a hearing in March 'The worst part of this is being broke,' Stone said of his dire financial situation on SiriusXM last month. 'I've lost my home, my insurance, what little savings I had, my ability to make a living because people pay me to write and talk, and of course the things they want me to write and talk about are the very things I'm not allowed to talk and write about. In the blink of an eye you can lose everything.' 'I have to pay everything I have to lawyers. And I could no longer pay the rent in the property that I was in,' he added. 'I moved from a nine-bedroom house to a one-bedroom apartment. Had to do the move myself with my wife renting a truck. On the last day of the move in kind of a freak accident the truck slips out of gear and rolls over my wife's ankle, breaking it.' The Bachelor's Kirralee 'Kiki' Morris' ex-boyfriend has appeared in court as he faces charges for allegedly assaulting the reality star last year. Jeremy Banks, 28, arrived at Manly Local Court in Sydney on Wednesday to face charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault. Banks was previously accused of slapping and choking Ms Morris during an altercation at their Manly apartment in the early hours of May 5, 2018. Court documents obtained by Daily Mail Australia last year state police were called to the scene after Morris fled to a neighbour's apartment and subsequently charged Banks with two counts of assault, however the charges were withdrawn in July. Kiki Morris's ex-boyfriend Jeremy Banks (pictured) is facing assault charges after he allegedly slapped and choked the Bachelor star during an incident at their Manly apartment last year Court documents state Morris claimed that she remembered being dragged or pulled by Banks and thrown to the lounge and held down with physical force Police served Banks with a Provisional Apprehended Violence Order following the incident, which was also withdrawn on July 24. Documents state that on the evening of Friday May 4, Morris and Banks were at their apartment drinking alcohol with friends. Morris, who hails from Newcastle, NSW, claimed she began to feel unwell sometime during the evening and so took cold and flu tablets before going to bed. She was allegedly woken up at 5am the following morning to find Banks standing over her holding her mobile phone and screaming, according to court documents. Morris claimed that she remembered being dragged or pulled by Banks and thrown to the lounge and held down with physical force. In fear and unable to call for help due to the pressure on her throat, Morris banged on the floor hoping to arouse neighbours for assistance. Banks then slapped her and yelled at her to 'shut the f**k up' and 'answer the question', the documents further claimed. Morris told police she may have struck out at Banks around this time in self defence but couldn't be sure. The 30-year-old former glamour model previously claimed Banks assaulted her during a dispute on May 5, 2018 Claim to fame: Kiki was a contestant on the 2016 season of The Bachelor, starring Richie Strahan Morris eventually broke free and ran outside of the unit into the arms of a neighbour who ushered her into her apartment. Police were called and arrived a short time later. Banks was arrested and cautioned before being conveyed to Manly Police Station. Police were called after Morris fled to a neighbour's apartment and subsequently charged Banks with two counts of assault, however the charges were withdrawn in July. Pictured: Document outlining the charges The court documents stated that police officers observed bruising to Morris' eye, deep bruising to her inner lower lip and redness to her elbows. Banks was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm (domestic violence) and common assault (domestic violence). Police imposed bail conditions due to Banks having two prior assault charges, the 'nature and seriousness of the offence' and the injuries sustained by Morris. Morris and Banks began dating in 2016, following her appearance on Richie Strahan's season of The Bachelor Australia. If you or someone you know is dealing with issues around sexual violence or domestic or family violence, you can call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 An accountant made 'disturbing' online searches including how to bury a person alive before he murdered his wife, who was found dead in their backyard. Ahmed Dawood Seedat, 37, pleaded guilty to killing 32-year-old Fahima Yusuf at their Carlisle home in Perth on August 31, 2018, while their two children, aged five and two, were asleep. Seedat had planned to kill the mother-of-two six weeks beforehand and made online searches such as 'can you marry your brother-in-law if sister dead Muslim', 'burying someone aliv [sic]' and 'cremating a body', the Perth Supreme Court heard during his sentencing hearing on Wednesday. Ahmed Dawood Seedat (left) made 'disturbing' online searches including how to bury a person alive before he murdered his wife Fahima Yusuf (right) Ms Yusuf's body was found in a shallow grave in their backyard four days after her murder Police discovered Ms Yusuf's body was found in a shallow grave in their backyard next to the laundry door - four days after she was murdered. The hole was dug by a contractor, who was told it was to install a pool for the children, the court heard. Prosecutor Nicholas Cogan said Seedat had intended to pursue a relationship with his sister-in-law, as evidenced in the tone of his numerous text messages to her. Seedat had texted his sister-in-law saying his wife had 'left' and told her to come to his home to console him, the court heard. Ms Yusuf's sister viewed Seedat as a brother according to her victim impact statement. The court does not suggest Seedat's sister-in-law was romantically attracted to him or was involved in the crime. The hole was dug by a contractor, who was told it was to install a pool for the children, the court heard (pictured: Mr Seedat and Ms Yusuf's backyard which was put up for sale) Ms Yusuf's cause of death remains unknown but she had bruising and lacerations to her scalp, which Seedat said was inflicted with a tyre lever. He later said he strangled Ms Yusuf. She had sand in her mouth, but not in her airways. Seedat repeatedly lied to explain Ms Yusuf's absence, telling neighbours she had gone to the UK for eye surgery and telling her sister she had left him. He even asked a friend to call Ms Yusuf's interstate father and impersonate a police officer. Ms Yusuf (pictured left) and Seedat (pictured right) lived in Carlisle, a Perth suburb, with their two children aged two and five Mr Cogin said there was no evidence Seedat wanted to leave the marriage but killed his wife because he had lost interest in her. He said she died as a result of Seedat's 'brutal and sustained actions' but it was not known whether she was still alive when she was buried. He said there was no evidence Ms Yusuf had intentions to leave her husband. Defence counsel Bernard Standish conceded the murder was premeditated and said his client was ashamed. 'There is not a day that goes by that he does not think about what he has done,' he said. Justice Bruno Fiannaca will sentence Seedat on May 27. Advertisement US secretary of state Mike Pompeo has issued a humiliating warning to the UK that it could lose access to vital American intelligence if it does not distance itself from Chinese tech firm Huawei - before taking an apparent sideswipe at Theresa May. After meeting Mrs May on a visit to London, and in a stinging criticism of the Prime Minister, Donald Trump's top diplomat invoked the memory of 'Iron Lady' Margaret Thatcher, asking: 'Would she have allowed China to control to control the internet of the future?' Earlier he had stood alongside Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and warned that the US would not allow access to its secrets to countries who were not using 'trusted networks'. Washington is urging allies to keep Huawei out of sensitive infrastructure programmes, citing fears that the company may provide a route for China's communist regime to spy on the West. But Mrs May had reportedly gave the green light to the company bidding for work on 'non-core' aspects of the hi-tech 5G network at a secret meeting, overruling concerns from ministers including Gavin Williamson, who was later sacked as defence secretary over suspicions that he had leaked details of discussions. Giving the Margaret Thatcher Lecture for the CPS think tank at Lancaster House in London, with Mr Hunt looking on, he said: 'Ask yourself: would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion? 'I know it is a sensitive topic but we have to talk about sensitive things as friends. 'As a matter of Chinese law the Chinese government can rightfully demand access to data flowing through Huawei and (telecoms firm) ZTE systems. 'Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace?' Mr Pompeo today became the first member of President Donald Trump's administration to speak face-to-face with the Prime Minister since last month's National Security Council agreed to consider Huawei's involvement Shortly after they posed for pictures inside Number 10 today, Donald Trump's top diplomat appeared to turn the screw on May at a speech in Lancaster House by asking the audience: 'Would Margaret Thatcher have allowed China to control to control the internet of the future?' Later, giving the Margaret Thatcher Lecture, Mr Pompeo said: 'Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace?' His broadside came hours after he stood alongside Hunt at the Foreign Office to praise the UK-US special relationship. Mr Pompeo said: 'I have great confidence that the UK will never take an action that will break the special relationship' Mr Hunt told reporters no decision had been taken on whether the UK will permit Huawei involvement in its 5G network Pompeo blasts Corbyn over support for Venezuela's Maduro Mike Pompeo hit out at Jeremy Corbyn over the crisis in Venezuela, condemned the 'disgusting' support of some political leaders in Western countries for leftist dictator Nicolas Maduro. In response to a question about the Labour leader's backing for Mr Maduro, Mr Pompeo said: 'It is disgusting to see leaders, not only in the United Kingdom but in the United States as well, who continue to support the murderous dictator Maduro. 'No leader from a country with Western democratic values ought to stand behind them.' In February Mr Corbyn was criticised by Brendan Cox, the widower of murdered Labour MP Jo Cox and a former chief strategist at Save the Children, who accused him of 'defending a dictator' over his stance on the beleaguered Latin American nation. More recently the Labour leader has criticised outside interference in Caracas' affairs. Opposition leader Juan Guaido has the backing of the US and the UK has recognised him as interim president, but Mr Maduro maintains his grip on power. Jeremy Hunt added: 'This is a country where three million people have fled the country, GDP has gone down by 40 per cent in the last four years, people can't access basic medicine, people are rifling through rubbish bags to get food in the streets. '(Shadow chancellor) John McDonnell describes this as socialism in action and I think people need to draw their own conclusions about what his own plans might be for the UK.' A Labour spokesman said the party opposed outside interference in Venezuela 'whether from the US or anywhere else'. Advertisement Mr Pompeo is the first member of President Donald Trump's administration to speak face-to-face with the PM and Mr Hunt since last month's National Security Council meeting. Earlier, speaking alongside the Foreign Secretary at the Foreign Office this afternoon he told reporters: 'I have great confidence that the UK will never take an action that will break the special relationship. 'With respect to 5G, we will continue to have technical discussions. 'We are making our views very well know. From America's perspective each country has a sovereign right to make its own decision about how to deal with the challenge. 'The US has an obligation to ensure that places where we operate, places where American information is, places where we have our national security at risk, that they operate inside trusted networks and we that is what we will do.' He urged the British Government to be 'vigilant and vocal against a host of Chinese activities that undermine the sovereignty of all nations'. He said: 'China peddles corrupt infrastructure deals in return for political influence. 'Its bribe-fuelled debt diplomacy undermines good governance and threatens to upend the free market model on which so many countries depend.' Mr Hunt told reporters no decision had been taken on whether the UK will permit Huawei involvement in its 5G network. 'With respect to Huawei and 5G, we have not made our final decision as a Government,' he said. 'We are considering the evidence very carefully. 'But we would never take a decision that compromised our ability to share intelligence with our Five Eyes colleagues, in particular with the United States. 'We are absolutely clear that the security relationship that we have with the United States is what has underpinned the international order since 1945 and has led to unparalleled peace and prosperity, and the preservation of that is our number one foreign policy priority.' The secretary of state arrived in Downing Street today after the Prime Minister had been warned that it would be 'naive to the point of negligence' to give Huawei further access to the UK's network. Julian Lewis, chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, made the warning at Prime Minister's Questions, but the Prime Minister insisted that she would do nothing to jeopardise the UK's national security. 'We are taking a robust, risk-based approach that's right for our UK market and network, and that addresses the UK national security needs,' she told MPs. Mr Pompeo leaves Downing Street today after meeting Theresa May, en route to holding a press conference at the Foreign Office with Jeremy Hunt He is also holding talks with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt about UK/US relations and Iran, in central London Mr Pompeo also met Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby at Lambeth Palace, where he signed the guest book Gavin Williamson was sacked as defence secretary after being accused of leaking the Huawei information from the NSC to a newspaper - something he denies Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was arrested at Vancouver's airport in December on a US warrant and is fighting extradition on fraud charges that she misled global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. She now wears an ankle monitor and is in legal battle against the US' request that she should be extradited to face fraud charges. She is pictured leaving her family home in Vancouver wearing the monitor Trump 'eager' for post-Brexit trade deal Donald Trump is 'eager' to do a trade deal with the UK, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, as he urged Britain get it sorted 'soon'. On his visit to London he hailed the special relationship between the two nations and said it would continue. He told a press conference with Jeremy Hunt: 'Our great hope is that Brexit can be resolved soon because President Trump is eager to strike a bilateral trade agreement that expands on our number one trade relationship.' Later, giving a lecture at a think tank he added that after Brexit was 'settled' the UK would be 'first in line for a trade deal, not at the end of the queue'. His support for a trade deal follows similar positive overtures from ambassador Woody Johnson. But critics have warned about US environmental and animal welfare standards, claiming we may have to adopt them in order to strike a deal including American agricultural products. But Mr Pompeo's welcoming tone contrasted with President Trump. In March he tore into Theresa May over her handling of Brexit, saying she could have made a success of it if she had listened to his advice. The US president said he was 'surprised how badly it has gone' as he spoke to reporters at the White House alongside Irish premier Leo Varadkar. Advertisement 'The UK is not considering any options that would put our national security communications at risk, either within the UK or with our closest allies. 'No-one takes national security more seriously than I do ... I think my record speaks for itself.' International Trade Secretary Liam Fox, one of the Cabinet's most ardent supporters of links with Washington, insisted there was 'much less of a difference' between the UK and US than some had claimed. 'When it comes to dealing with China, our analysis of the problems doesn't vary much from the United States,' he said at a trade conference in London. He insisted that no decision on Huawei had officially been taken by the Government and 'we need to take into account the issues of an open trading system but we also have to ensure protection, particularly of our critical national infrastructure, and that we'll do'. Mr Pompeo warned earlier this year that the US will not 'partner' with countries that adopt Huawei systems. 'We've made clear that if the risk exceeds the threshold for the United States, we simply won't be able to share that information any longer,' he said last month. In talks at 10 Downing Street, Mr Pompeo is also expected to step up US pressure on the UK to isolate Iran. He made a surprise visit to Iraq immediately before his trip to London, assuring Baghdad that the US opposes other states 'interfering in their country' and stands ready 'to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation'. Mr Trump last year unilaterally pulled the US out of an international nuclear deal with Iran, but the UK and other European powers have refused to follow his lead. Tensions have escalated in recent days as Washington deployed the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln to the Gulf. Mr Trump's national security adviser John Bolton said the move sent 'a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interest or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force'. UK must bring home British Islamic State fighters in Syria, says Pompeo Mike Pompeo risked a clash with the UK over foreign Islamic State fighters today when he said the US expected its allies to take responsibility for their own people. Speaking in London he discussed the combatants detained in Syria following the collapse of the hardline Islamist enclave. The UK has so far said that it wants British nationals held in the war-ravaged area to be dealt with locally. They include Shamima Begum, now 19, who left her Bethnal Green home in 2015 for the Syrian city of Raqqa and married a Dutch jihadi, who has had her British citizenship revoked. But in comments that are likely to go down badly in Downing Street, the US secretary of state told reporters in London: 'We have an expectation that every country will work to take back their foreign fighters and continue to hold those foreign fighters. 'We think that's essential. There are 70,000 people at a camp there - some women and children - and we've got to sort through that.' He added: 'We've rounded them up, they are now detained and they need to continue to be detained so they cannot present additional risk to anyone anywhere in the world.' Mr Hunt said the UK was 'working closely' with the US on how to deal with foreign fighters. 'We have to keep an eye on both the security of the United Kingdom, but also make sure there is due process,' said the Foreign Secretary. 'We are looking at all the options available to us in this situation.' Advertisement Nigel Farage has branded Theresa May the most dishonest Prime Minister of his lifetime over her handling of the country's exit from the EU. The leader of the burgeoning Brexit Party said that Mrs May had promised many times that the UK would leave the bloc following the 2016 referendum vote. But speaking on Good Morning Britain today, he slammed her failure to secure an exit and said the only reason she still leads the Conservatives is because 'Tory MPs have not got the backbone to get rid of her'. 'She is without doubt not just the worst Prime Minister in my lifetime, but the most dishonest as well,' he told presenters Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid. Farage said that he doesn't think 'Westminster gets how angry this country is' over the fact that Brexit has not yet materialised. His remarks come as parties prepare to battle it out in the EU elections later this month after Mrs May failed to break the Brexit deadlock and negotiate a deal in talks with the Labour Party. Nigel Farage today slammed Theresa May as the wort Prime Minister of his lifetime as well as the most dishonest He accused the Prime Minister of 'pretending' to go for a free trade deal with the EU but said her agreement still bound us to the bloc. His party advocates leaving the EU without a deal and using World Trade Organisation rules in the immediate aftermath. Farage said that the Tories doing a deal with Labour to ensure a customs union is in place after Brexit would be a 'complete betrayal'. Susanna Reid suggested that there is division over what deal is adopted because people who backed leaving didn't necessarily vote to leave without an arrangement in place. When Farage was challenged on what people voted for in the EU Referendum, he repeatedly said: 'They voted to leave.' He also slammed Ukip's inclusion of Carl Benjamin - aka Sargon of Akkad - as a candidate for the EU elections on May 23. Farage was challenged on whether the British public voted to leave the EU without a deal in 2016 and replied: 'They voted to leave' Benjamin hit headlines for saying he 'wouldn't even rape' Labour MP Jess Philips and police are now investigating for joking that he 'might'. Farage branded the comments 'vile'. Addressing his candidacy and the use of Tommy Robinson as an adviser, Farage said: 'I warned them last year, repeatedly, do not let the lunatic fringe, the criminal fringe into the party. The sooner this election's over with and Ukip closes down, the better it will be.' Farage's party has soared into a nine-point poll lead ahead of the May 23 elections and looks certain to steal seats from the Tories. Mrs May face criticism for considering being part of a customs union with the EU as she discussed the possibility with Labour. This risks Britain being unable to strike its own trade deals, which could cause a backlash that might cost the votes of more Conservative MPs than she gains from Jeremy Coybn's party. If the offer was voted down, it could split the Tories. A tense moment played out between Senator Penny Wong and Trade Minister Simon Birmingham during a televised debate in South Australia on Wednesday afternoon. During the debate, held at the SA Press Club, a furious Ms Wong shook her head as Mr Birmingham brought up comments former Prime Minister Paul Keating made about China. As the event wrapped up, Ms Wong refused to shake Mr Birmingham's outstretched hand before reaching past him to shake the other panelist's hands. A tense moment played out between Senator Penny Wong and Trade Minister Simon Birmingham during a televised debate in South Australia on Wednesday afternoon Ms Wong was clearly angered over the comments attacking Labor policy on China and accusing them of inconsistency over the issue. Mr Birmingham was referencing comments Mr Keating made earlier this week that Australian intelligence agency chiefs were 'nutters' and they should be replaced to improve relations with China. He said security organisations ASIO and ASIS were too heavily involved in shaping foreign policy. 'The nutters are in charge. They've lost their strategic bearings, these organisations.' Mr Keating told the ABC after Labor's launch on Sunday. Labor leaders, including Bill Shorten, have distanced themselves from the comments saying they do not share the former PM's views. As the event wrapped up, Ms Wong refused to shake Mr Birmingham's outstretched hand before reaching past him to shake the other panelist's hands 'Paul Keating is not an isolated figure (in the Labor party on this issue),' Mr Birmingham said during the debate. 'Speaking of not being partisan on the issue of China. This is really desperate politics. It's not in your national interest,' Ms Wong fires back. Users on social media were divided as to whether Ms Wong's actions were justified. 'Good on you Penny Wong. Birmingham way out of line,' one commenter said. 'Birmingham just shot down bipartisanship on security. Also for a few seconds of personal glory,' another said. 'Thought Penny Wong was more gracious than that,' countered a third. On Tuesday Ms Wong slammed a political campaign run on Chinese app Wechat that was circulating fake news about Labor policies. A highly intoxicated woman 'exposed herself' and refused to leave a pub before she attacked a female police officer and branded her a 'lesbian cyborg'. Priscilla Marie Butler, 36, faced Caloundra Magistrates Court in relation to the explicit outburst which occurred at the Aussie World pub, on the Sunshine Coast, in front of families and young children in April. Police were called to the incident at the amusement park brewery after Ms Butler stripped off and subsequently 'turned on' a security guard, punching him multiple times in the head, after he attempted to remove her from the premises. Priscilla Marie Butler, 36, was accused of 'exposing herself' before attacking a female officer and branding her as a 'lesbian cyborg' after she refused to leave the Aussie World (pictured) pub As a result of Ms Butler's attack the male security guard is believed to have suffered 'pain and discomfort', The Courier Mail reported. When officers arrived at the scene Ms Butler allegedly had her pants down and was 'abusing anyone' who was near to her, Police prosecutor Senior Constable Amanda Brewer said. Ms Butler allegedly then turned her attention towards one female officer and branded her a 'lesbian cyborg' after telling her 'you can get f*****'. She is also alleged to have bashed the policewoman in the chest. Ms Butler faced Caloundra Magistrates Court (pictured) in relation to the explicit outburst which occurred at the Aussie World pub, in the Sunshine Coast Magistrate Haydn Stjernqvist said Ms Butler was 'lucky' the injuries sustained had been 'minor'. 'It's not rare people in your position go to jail... lucky the injuries were minor,' Magistrate Stjernqvist said. Ms Butler's defence lawyer Ben Rynderman said his client had been 'manhandled' by police officers. Although he noted he was not 'attempting' to excuse' her behaviour but to give 'context' to the situation. Mr Rynderman also stated his client usually demonstrated an 'exceptional character' but had been 'adversely affected' by alcohol. According to Mr Rynderman, Ms Butler had unsuccessfully tried to reach out to the police officer to apologise because she was ashamed of her actions. Character references for Ms Butler, who works at BWS and as a carer, also described her as a 'warmhearted' person. Ms Butler was sentenced to 40 hours community service and was handed a fine of $1800. Iran has been warned to expect more U.S. sanctions 'very soon' as Washington dismissed the Islamic Republic's threat to resume high-level uranium enrichment. President Hassan Rouhani said today that Iran would stop abiding by the controversial nuclear deal unless new terms were agreed. Tehran has demanded that the UK, France, Germany, China and Russia help Iran to dodge U.S. sanctions, which were restored last year when Donald Trump quit the pact. But White House defence aide Tim Morrison condemned Iran's attempted 'nuclear blackmail of Europe' and warned: 'Expect more sanctions soon. Very soon.' Rouhani's comments also sparked outrage in Europe, as Britain warned of 'consequences' if Iran gives up its nuclear commitments. Hassan Rouhani, President of Iran, has threatened to roll back on key parts of the nuclear pact still in effect with the UK, Russia, China, Germany and France following US sanctions Iran wants help from Europe to bypass the sanctions and shield its oil and banking industries. But Rouhani, speaking a year exactly since Trump pulled out of the deal, said today it would ramp up nuclear enrichment if such help did not materialise. Responding on a visit to London, U.S. secretary of state Mike Pompeo said: 'I think it was intentionally ambiguous. We'll have to see what Iran's actions actually are. 'Iran's decision to depart from the [deal] is mostly about the decision to work on their nuclear programme, to create pathways which might reduce their breakout time. 'I am confident that as we watch Iran's activity that the UK and our European partners will move forward together to ensure that Iran has no pathway for a nuclear weapons system.' British foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt said: 'Today's announcement from Tehran about its commitments under the deal is an unwelcome step. 'I urge Iran not to take further escalatory steps and to stand by its commitments. 'Sanctions were lifted in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear programme. Should Iran cease to observe its nuclear commitments, there would of course be consequences.' US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (R) and Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt (L) attend a joint press conference at the Foreign Office in central London today The threat also sparked a backlash from Israel, where Benjamin Netanyahu warned he would 'not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons'. Netanyahu, who has accused Iran of breaching the deal, said Israel 'will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives'. France's defence minister said she wanted to keep the nuclear deal alive and warned Iran it could face more sanctions if it did not honour its part of the deal. 'Today nothing would be worse than Iran, itself, leaving this agreement,' Florence Parly told BFM TV. German chancellor Angela Merkel's office said: 'We as Europeans, as Germans, will play our part and we expect full implementation from Iran as well.' Meanwhile Russia blamed 'irresponsible behaviour' by the U.S. for the breakdown of the nuclear deal. President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly warned there would be consequences for 'ill-advised' steps taken by the U.S. against Iran. Rouhani spoke out on the one-year anniversary of Donald Trump tearing up the Iran nuclear deal, which was a signature policy of his predecessor Barack Obama China urged 'all relevant parties to avoid escalating tensions'. There was no immediate response from Washington. Iran has denied ever seeking nuclear weapons, insisting its atomic programme is for entirely peaceful purposes. The Islamic Republic's leader said Iran wanted to negotiate new terms with remaining partners in the deal, but acknowledged that the situation was dire. 'We felt that the nuclear deal needs surgery and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective,' he said. 'This surgery is to save the (deal), not destroy it,' he said. The 2015 deal, which then-President Barack Obama helped to negotiate, saw sanctions on Iran lifted in exchange for limits on its nuclear programme. After the US withdrew from the accord it restored crippling sanctions on Iran, exacerbating a severe economic crisis. Rouhani said the country will restart its uranium enrichment programme, and start stockpiling low-enrichment uranium and heavy water within 60 days unless world leaders act 'If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal,' Rouhani said. European powers have tried to find ways to blunt the impact of new U.S. sanctions, in the hope of persuading Tehran to continue to abide by the deal. However, their efforts have largely failed, with all major European companies abandoning plans to do business with Iran for fear of U.S. punishment. Rouhani slammed European countries for seeing the US as the world's 'sheriff' and said this keeps them from making 'firm decisions for their own national interests.' The White House said on Sunday that it would dispatch an aircraft carrier and a bomber wing to the Persian Gulf over what it described as a new threat from Tehran. Under terms of the deal, Iran can keep a stockpile of no more than 300kg of low-enriched uranium, compared with 10,000kg of higher-enriched uranium it once had. Washington has effectively ordered countries around the world to stop buying any Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (pictured left) meets with Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May (right) at 10 Downing Street in London today It has also revoked waivers that had allowed some countries to continue buying Iranian oil and it aims to reduce Iranian crude exports to zero. The U.S. has also blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards force as a terrorist organisation and Iran responded with threats to close the Gulf's strait of Hormuz if its ships were blocked there. Trump's hard line is backed by Israel and Washington's Gulf Arab allies, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Currently, the accord limits Iran to enriching uranium to 3.67 per cent, which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Weapons-grade uranium needs to be enriched to around 90 per cent. However, once a country enriches uranium to around 20 per cent, scientists say the time needed to reach 90 per cent is halved. Iran has previously enriched to 20 per cent. The nuclear deal was Rouhani's flagship policy to end Iran's isolation and open up its economy to the world. Ultimate authority in Iran lies with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a cleric in power since 1989, who signed off on the nuclear deal but remains close to the hardline faction challenging Rouhani. This is the astonishing moment a wild brown bear stunned mourners when it ransacked gifts left for the dead at a remote cemetery in Russia. The hungry animal was spotted scavenging for sweets and biscuits which are traditionally left by tombs at a graveyard in the Tynda district of the country's far east. In a clip filmed by a mourner, the young bear tears apart wrappers and paper to get to the food inside as a group gathers to watch the beast. A wild brown bear scavenges for sweets and biscuits left for the dead at a cemetery in Yuktali in the Tynda district of the country's far east When it notices the crowd, the predator rises on its hind legs - but instead of attacking, it merely continues with its feast. Instead of fleeing from the bear, one onlooker then decided to call to it. He said: 'Here it is - look, here it is. Hi Mishka, what are you doing here?' He then told the group it was a small bear - and a woman exclaimed 'Oh damn' when it rose up tall. When it notices the watching crowd, the predator rises up on its hind legs and stares back at the onlookers The teenage bear tears apart wrappers and paper to get to the food inside as a group gather to view the beast 'I thought it was a cub. Well.. it is rather pretty,' she said. The mourners, who were visiting the grave of a relative at the time, have now been warned they were 'foolish' to video the beast rather than turn and flee. Head of the district Tamara Lysakova said: 'I was surprised with their foolish actions. 'In such cases, you need to run, and not shoot a video. This is a wild animal, and you never know how it will behave.' The mourners have been warned they were 'foolish' to video the beast rather than flee by head of district Tamara Lysakova (Pictured) A hunt is now on to shoot the wild animal as it refuses to leave the remote cemetery. 'We have already called the relevant authorities so that the specialists will shoot the bear, since it will not leave,' Ms Lysakova said. She also blamed the incident on mourners who leave food at gravesides. 'Bears go for smells, and here we leave everything ourselves,' she warned. There was a risk of bears 'digging up the graves' if the dead were not laid to rest in deep holes, she said. Wildlife protection chief in Amur region Valery Pogasienko said the mourners demonstrated 'careless behaviour' in making the video. The way they acted was 'fraught with misfortune', he warned. 'Recently there were several cases of bear attacks.' Wild bears have been spotted digging up buried bodies in graveyards in Russia recently, with some cemeteries in the far east even enlisting armed guards to keep the animals at bay. In another region, Kamchatka, a fisherman was reported to have been killed this week by a brown bear. Thousands of German teenagers have voiced their fury at a maths exam they believe was too difficult. Some 65,000 people have signed a petition in the state of Bavaria calling for the grading to be more lenient after they struggled with the test. One maths teacher even said it had taken him 15 hours to complete the test, when pupils were given only five. However there was no sympathy from one former teachers' union boss who said the complaints were a 'circus for the snowflake generation'. German teenagers have voiced their fury at a maths exam they believe was too difficult, fearing the results may jeopardise their university places (file photo) The final school exams in Germany - called the Abitur - are a rite of passage that all students who want to enter university have to pass. A petition in Bavaria started by Lisa Muller calls on teaching bosses to lower the boundaries, saying the questions were harder than in any previous exam. Some of the questions on the maths test 1. A raffle offers a prize to every player. The tickets and prizes are in three categories: Danube, Main and Lech. In the pot there are four times as many Main tickets as Danube ones. A ticket costs one euro. While shopping for prizes, the raffle organiser pays 8 for a Donau prize, 2 for a Main prize and 20 cents for a Lech prize. Work out what the proportion of Danube tickets has to be, if she wants to make an average profit of 35 cents per ticket. 2. The organiser employs someone to approach guests, to encourage them to buy tickets. He persuaded 10 out of 100 adult visitors to buy a ticket. He claims he had a higher success rate among people with children. Of the 100 people he approached, 40 had a child. Of those without a child, 54 did not take a ticket. Work out whether these results back up the employee's claim. Advertisement The test had included tasks that 'hardly anyone had seen before', according to the petition, which had 67,230 signatures on Wednesday morning. Questions on geometry and probability were said to be particularly hard. One pupil, Sophie Basmann, said: 'It was just too difficult and not at all comparable to previous years. 'Most pupils taking the exam did nothing else in their holidays except study maths and you'd at least expect that the questions would be on last year's level.' The tests are set by each of Germany's 16 states but the questions are drawn from a national pool. Authorities in Bavaria have said they will look into the complaints. But some politicians and teaching union officials have dismissed the outcry as overblown millennial fury. Josef Kraus, the former head of the German Teachers' Association, said it was a 'three-ring circus for Generation Snowflake' and said the pupils were 'wrapped in cotton wool', according to German media. German MP Gotz Fromming, of the populist AfD party, said too many pupils were being allowed to take the Abitur. The tests allow admission to university but not all students take them. 'Because of the ever larger number of pupils taking the Abitur who aren't up to [grammar school], more and more students can't deal with its demands,' he said. Some 65,000 people have signed a petition in the state of Bavaria calling for the grade boundaries to be changed after they struggle with the test (file photo) 'As a result there will be complaints about tasks that are supposedly too difficult. 'If you constantly lower the level, you help no-one: if the goal is that everyone has an Abitur, the difficulty level will have to be lowered ever further. But then it's worth nothing any more.' His party colleague Frank Scholtysek, a representative in Berlin, said: 'To pass the Abitur you do have to switch your head on and get to grips with things you haven't seen before. 'You can't just learn by heart. You also have to understand what you're doing. Then it works.' Last year a similar row broke out after a final English exam which students said was 'unfair'. They complained that text excerpts from American author Henry Roth's 1934 novel Call it Sleep were too difficult and obscure to analyse. Pupils said the passage - a metaphorical description of the Statue of Liberty - was difficult to understand because of its 'unknown vocabulary'. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo paid a surprise visit to Iraq yesterday to guarantee the safety of US interests amid rising tensions in the region. The top US diplomat's unannounced visit, cutting short a trip to Germany, marked Washington's efforts to stand up ties between the two countries amid escalating tensions with Iran. Tehran has threatened to restart its uranium enrichment program within 60 days this morning if European countries including the UK, Germany and Russia do not make good on their promises to protect the country's oil and banking sectors. A US aircraft carrier strike group and B-52 bombers have already been moved into the area after intelligence showed Iran may be moving short-range ballistic missiles aboard boats in the Persian gulf, reports CNN. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo paid a surprise visit to Iraq yesterday amid rising tensions in the region. (Pictured) Mike Pompeo (right) with Acting Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs David Satterfield (left), and Charge D'affairs at the US Embassy in Baghdad Joey Hood (centre) The unannounced visit, cutting short a trip to Germany, marked Washington's efforts to stand up ties between the two countries. (Pictured) Mike Pompeo and Iraq's President Barham Salih Pompeo made a lengthy detour from a European tour to spend four hours in Iraq, where he met both President Barham Saleh and Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi. 'We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country,' Pompeo told reporters after the meetings. 'They both provided assurances that they understood that was their responsibility,' he said. Pompeo said he made the trip because Iranian forces are 'escalating their activity' and said the threat of attacks were 'very specific'. 'These were attacks that were imminent,' Pompeo said. The lengthy detour for a four hour visit came before it emerged the US had deployed an aircraft carrier strike group with B-52 bombers to the region as Iran had reportedly moved short-range ballistic missiles onto boats in the Persian gulf Iran's president Hassan Rouhani (pictured) threatened in a TV address this morning to restart the country's uranium enrichment program within 60 days if European countries don't make good on their promises to protect its oil and banking sectors He declined to go into further detail on the alleged plot, which has been met with skepticism in numerous quarters, with leading Democratic lawmakers fearing that President Donald Trump's administration is seeking to spark a war with Iran. In the latest US move, the Pentagon said it was sending several massive, nuclear-capable B-52s to the region. The deployment was in response to 'recent and clear indications that Iranian and Iranian proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack US forces,' the Pentagon said. On Sunday, Washington announced it was dispatching an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East as national security adviser John Bolton warned Iran that Washington would respond with 'unrelenting force' to any attack by Tehran, including by its regional allies. Iraq's majority Shiite population enjoys religious kinship with Iran, which played a significant role in helping Baghdad to fight the Islamic State extremist movement. President Hassan Rouhani paid an official visit to Iraq in March, where he denounced pressure from the 'aggressor' United States, which deposed Iran's arch-enemy Saddam Hussein in a 2003 invasion. The US Secretary of State made the visit for four hours before departing from Baghdad International Airport to continue his European tour Pompeo, whose trip to Iraq is his second this year, said he spoke at length about Iran's influence with Shiite militias. 'We've urged the Iraqi government for its own security to get all of those forces under Iraqi central control,' Pompeo said. 'In each of those meetings, those two leaders promised that that was their objective, too, they were moving towards that goal,' he said. In Iraq, a debate has been raging in recent months over the fate of some 5,200 US troops stationed across the country. Their presence angers the Hashed al-Shaabi, a paramilitary force that is dominated by pro-Iran factions which played a key role alongside government forces in the fight against IS. In Iraq, a debate has been raging in recent months over the fate of some 5,200 US troops stationed across the country In a press conference a few hours before Pompeo's arrival, Abdel Mahdi said Iraq would not accept any attack on foreign troops on its land. 'Iraq really is taking the responsibility to avoid any attack on any of our friends here, coalition forces or any of our friends here,' he told reporters. 'This is an obligation that Iraq would honor, (and) not accept any attack on anyone - whether Iraqi, foreigner, whether it's an embassy or a company or a military mission,' he said. The Trump administration has imposed sweeping sanctions on Iran, including trying to stop all exports of its oil, although it has issued a waiver for energy-starved Iraq to keep buying power from its neighbor. Iranian media have said that Rouhani will announce retaliatory measures on Wednesday to mark the anniversary of Trump's pullout from a 2015 nuclear accord under which Tehran drastically scaled back its sensitive work. With the imposition of US sanctions, Iran has grown increasingly frustrated that it has not seen the fruits of the agreement, with which UN inspectors say it is complying. Pompeo had been travelling from Finland, where he had attended a meeting of the Arctic Council, to Germany, where he was due to meet both Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas later Tuesday. Germany has wide disagreements with the Trump administration and along with other European nations still supports the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated under former US president Barack Obama. German parliamentary foreign affairs committee chair Norbert Roettgen said that 'even if the reasons for the rejection are unavoidable, it unfortunately fits in with the current climate in the relationship between the two governments'. But Pompeo said that Maas was 'most gracious' in a telephone call in which he told him he would scrap the visit. Pompeo, who returns to Europe for talks Wednesday in London, said he would try to reschedule his trip 'as soon as we possibly could'. After being the only foreign network allowed in to see the unveiling of the royal baby on Wednesday, CBS's Gayle King seized the moment to tout her 'royal special report' and talk about her trip to Windsor last weekend hours before Meghan Markle went into labour. In an unusual move by the royals, CBS was chosen at the last minute to film and distribute the footage to US networks, prompting speculation that Meghan, who invited King to her baby shower in February, was playing favorites with the American media and giving her baby shower guest a leg-up. The Sussexes' PR representative denied it, insisting that she would get no special treatment. But while there was no exclusive content for King or CBS from the announcement, she used it to tout the 'special report' she is working on with them and shared an anecdote from her trip to Windsor last weekend, before the baby's arrival, while Harry and Meghan were hiding out from the world and she was days overdue. 'When I was in Windsor this past weekend because we're working on that royal special as you know, there was a rumor in the streets that the baby had been born and it had a big ginger afro which they didn't quite know what to do with it,' King said coyly on Wednesday after cooing over photos and videos of their newborn. While CBS has not yet confirmed it, it is possible that her visit included a trip to Frogmore Cottage and an interview with the then expectant parents - a major coup for any media organization in light of their well-documented disdain for the press. Meghan was days past her due date over the weekend. She was whisked to a hospital in London on Sunday night hours after King left the UK to fly back to the US. Scroll down for video Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are shown unveiling their son to the world on Wednesday in footage that was aired on CBS This Morning at 7.40am, the same time as British outlets received it Gayle King teased her 'royal special report' and spoke of her trip to Winsdor this weekend when Meghan was overdue and hours away from labour "It's magic. It's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world and I'm really happy." -- Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex https://t.co/8AVL0JtZwf pic.twitter.com/7FCBAPwJbR CBS This Morning (@CBSThisMorning) May 8, 2019 King's royal special is to mark the one year anniversary of the royal wedding on May 19. It was announced in April at the same time that Prince Harry announced his partnership with King's long-term best friend Oprah. A spokesman for the show did not respond to DailyMail.com's inquiries regarding King's trip over the weekend. They are working on a mental health series that will launch on Apple and King's special, titled 'Harry and Meghan Plus One', will be aired on CBS where reigns supreme and has just signed a new contract. The last minute addition of CBS's camera crew to Wednesday's press call shocked British media. Until Tuesday night, it had been decided that Sky - which was the only outlet to catch Prince Harry's impromptu press conference announcing the birth on Monday - would be in the room. A photographer from the Associated Press would be there too, it had been decided, and they together would serve as pool for other media. When CBS was added at the last minute, there was shock and intrigue as to why an American outlet had been added to the mix. Harry and Meghan are shown in the official portrait taken by Associated Press on Wednesday. The AP, Sky and CBS were the only media outlets there Gayle and Meghan's fast friendship Gayle King presents coverage of the wedding of her friend Meghan Markle to Prince Harry Gayle King is among a group of powerful women who have coalesced around Meghan since she became the Duchess of Sussex - including the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Amal Clooney - but it is unclear how they came to know each other. While Oprah and Amal were present inside St George's Chapel at Windsor when she married Prince Harry, King was outside reporting for CBS. However, King - who has been friends with Oprah for more than four decades - soon progressed to Meghan's inner circle. The first major event she attended as Meghan's friend was her New York baby shower in February this year, among 20 other guests. Amal and Oprah also attended, alongside the likes of Serena Williams who has been friends with Meghan since 2010 when the pair met at Super Bowl. Describing the event afterwards, she said 'a good time was had by all' and that guests took part in flower arranging, with bouquets donated to charity after. She announced it on air on CBS This Morning, adding that she got something 'very nice' for the baby. She added of Meghan: 'She's very kind. She's very generous, and a really, really sweet person.' King did not attend Harry and Meghan's wedding as a guest, but was handed reporting duties by CBS and spoke from outside Windsor Castle King has since come out to bat for Meghan amid unflattering stories in the press, agreeing with Oprah that she has been treated unfairly. Oprah has also formed a friendship with Meghan's mother Doria Ragland 'I don't think she's being treated fairly, I don't. I think she is sweet, she is loving, she is kind. She's extremely generous with her time and her spirit, and I wish we heard more about that,' she said last month. King's defense of her joins a chorus of other prominent US personalities who have defended her including George Clooney. On the same day that it was announced that Oprah and Harry would be working together on a mental health Apple series, King's special for CBS was announced. It remains unclear if she sat down with the pair for it. In an announcement, CBS said only that it had heard from 'royal insiders' but not the couple themselves. Adjacent to King's sudden ties to the pair is her best friend, Oprah's. Oprah was a guest at Harry and Meghan's wedding at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle last May, and she is said to have formed a friendship with Meghan's mother Doria Ragland It is not yet known where she first met Harry or Meghan or how they came to be so close that she snagged an invitation to their wedding last May. Before it, she had Meghan's mother Doria Ragland round to her house to do yoga on the lawn and have lunch. Doria left with a basket of kumquats from Oprah's tree. Despite speculation that their get-together was for an interview, Doria has never spoken publicly. After her appearance at Meghan's baby shower, King's next public link to the pair was through the announcement of the CBS special report. By February this year, King had been brought into the fold. She is shown arriving at Meghan's baby shower with a gift she would later talk about on air In its announcement of it, CBS said: 'The one-hour special will go behind the headlines and the rumors. 'Viewers will hear from royal insiders and Meghan's friends to learn how the couple has adapted to their new lives together and how they have navigated the positive and negative aspects that come with being royal.' It did not say whether or not an interview with the couple themselves would be included. The show will air on May 17. Advertisement The palace said it was to 'reflect the international interest in the story' but Buckingham Palace was not involved in the decision. Rather Harry and US-born Meghan insisted on it themselves. CBS was teasing the baby announcement early on Wednesday but gave no indication that it had the inside scoop. When King presented their footage on Wednesday, she expressed the same joy and excitement as any of her colleagues would and joked that she was 'disappointed' not to have seen the baby's hair. She then touted her trip quickly with her small anecdote about being in the 'streets of Windsor' this weekend in a similar fashion to how she shared details of being at Meghan's baby shower in February. After that occasion, she went on air to talk about how 'sweet and generous' Meghan was. She also shared details of how guests made floral arrangements that were then donated to charity. Photographed walking into the event with a polka-dot party bag, King refused to reveal exactly what she had bought for the royal couple. 'I got something I think is very nice,' she said afterwards. The notion that she got the inside track fuels fury surrounding the palace's handling of the birth which has been haphazard from the start. On Monday Harry gave an interview to Sky in which he gushed about the birth of his new son at Windsor Castle, just 45 minutes after Buckingham Palace had announced that Meghan was in labour. While the footage was syndicated immediately, it caught most other networks by surprise as they had not been fore-warned. Prince Harry announces the birth of his son at Windsor on Monday at 1pm - during the morning news shows in America. No British media outlets knew about it other than Sky thanks to a 'technical glitch' which meant emails did not get sent as they should have been, according to their PR Prince Harry has also partnered with Gayle's best friend, Oprah, to produce an Apple series on mental health. Oprah announced it on CBS This Morning last month Sara Latham, the Sussexes' new communications chief, later explained there had been a 'colossal tech failure' which meant an email informing the press of Harry's announcement did not reach reporters until an hour after it was sent. She said the email was supposed to have been sent at 1pm, again providing convenient timing for US morning news shows. The royal couple were planning on a home birth, but as Meghan passed her due date, they opted for The Portland Hospital in London instead to ensure the child's safety, insiders said. Meghan and Harry's insistence on having CBS present for the baby's unveiling is also thought to have caused upset within the British press, as foreign outlets are not typically invited to such events. 'It's a decision that has taken everyone by surprise and has not gone down well in some quarters,' one source said. Last month Harry and Meghan's office announced that while they wanted to keep details of the birth private, they had agreed to a very small photocall at Windsor a couple of days after the baby was born. Meghan is pictured leaving her baby shower to board a private jet paid for by her friends, George and Amal Clooney, back to the UK Police investigating the loss of two exam papers have made an arrest. Thames Valley Police launched and investigation after the exam papers failed to arrive at a school in the Home Counties. The AQA exams board contacted the courier company responsible for delivery before alerting police. Claire Thomson, AQA's Director of Operations, added: 'These exam papers were sent to a school but never arrived. 'The police and the courier company are both investigating and an arrest has been made. Pictured: The email that was sent out as French and Sociology papers went missing in the post Papers have gone missing just days before the pupils were set to sit their GCSE exams (file photo) 'We've known about this issue for over a week so the process of sending new papers to schools to make sure no-one has an unfair advantage is well underway. 'Our message to students is that there's nothing for them to worry about - they can carry on with their revision as if nothing's happened and we'll take care of it.' The papers vanished sometime between them being sent by exam board AQA by courier and arriving at one secondary school. Hundreds of schools and sixth form colleges nationwide have now had to get replacements over fears the questions could be leaked. Senior staff were sent emails from AQA warning them the exam papers 'integrity and security' had been compromised. The blunder happened less than a fortnight before the first of the tests are due to take place. The papers in question were GCSE French Reading and Writing which were due to be sat on May 14 and 17 respectively. The AS Levels were for Sociology exams again on May 14 and then on May 20. When are this year's GCSEs taking place? Most of the exams take place from May 13 to June 21. But some have already begun, with the first taking place yesterday. Northern Irish students are taking Engineering and Manufacturing with the CCEA board. When your exam takes place depends on which board you are taking your test under. The first AQA exam is on May 10, with the first OCR exam falling on May 15. The first Pearson Edexcel tests are on May 13. Welsh students under the WJEC sat this year's first exams yesterday. Results day for England and Wales is August 22. In Scotland it is August 6. Advertisement The email read: 'Dear Colleague, we are sorry to let you know that we need to replace question papers for the following components. 'We understand that this is short notice, but we've received information which raises doubt about the integrity and security of the question papers. 'The incident was beyond our control and unfortunately means that we need to replace the papers so we can protect the interest of all our students.' A source said: 'This has caused a right headache for schools at a very busy time for them. But hopefully there will be little impact on students.' Claire Thomson, AQA's Director of Operations, said: 'These exam papers were sent to a school but never arrived. The police and the courier company are both investigating and an arrest has been made. 'We've known about this issue for over a week so the process of sending new papers to schools to make sure no-one has an unfair advantage is well underway. Our message to students is that there's nothing for them to worry about - they can carry on with their revision as if nothing's happened and we'll take care of it.' An Irishman sipping a foaming pint of Guinness is a culture from a hangover age, according to one Dublin bar which is set to become the country's first booze-free pub. The Virgin Mary will open its doors to punters in the so-called drinking capital of Europe this Friday, but will not be serving any alcohol and instead opting for 0% alternatives. Owner Vaughan Yates, 51, who is a self-confessed 'whiskey head', is aiming to smash the stereotype that alcohol is needed to have a good time and try to drum up trade by appealing to large chunks of the population who are getting on the wagon. Owner Vaughan Yates, 51, who is a self-confessed 'whiskey head' bar is opening the Virgin Mary which is set to become the country's first booze-free pub It will open its doors to punters in the so-called drinking capital of Europe this Friday, but will not be serving any alcohol and instead opting for 0% alternatives such as Guinness-like coffee He told MailOnline: 'When people pull themselves together and stop laughing, they say "I think you're on to something here". 'I'm not really pushing anyone against drinking alcohol, I'm just saying "why not try not drinking for a night?" '25 per cent of people in Ireland don't drink, but as you get older, your pallet becomes more bitter. 'But everything non-alcoholic behind most bars are really sweet, so that's why we're doing non-alcoholic cocktails, beers and wines.' He has even got a nitro coffee which is made with porter to replicate the same texture as Guinness. He said: 'My friends tried the porter coffee the other night and said to me "this looks like and even smells like Guinness!" Vaughan strongly believes that a booze-free night can be just as fun, and said that it even comes with the added benefits of being relatively hassle-free. Because he does not stock any alcohol, he does not need a licence and said that the planning application has 'flown through' He said: 'When my friends came the other day, the music got louder and louder and it was a great night. 'But when it's closing time, you don't really have the struggle of trying to get people out when they're getting a bit merry!' And addressing the well-known stereotype which Ireland has as the drinking capital of Europe, he said: 'We can create a new stereotype for Irish people who want to go out without drinking.' Vaughan chose to make the bar completely alcohol free rather than offering a selection of drinks so it would be unique and also ease the application process. He said: 'I want to do something edgy that's different. 'And it also means that I don't need an alcohol licence and so the application process has flown through.' Vaughan, and his partner Oisin Davis, is trying to tap into the tumbling number of Irish drinkers amid a 'culture shift' in the country. Between 2005 and 2016, alcohol consumption has dropped by a quarter and the number continues to fall, according to the World Health Organisation. Advertisement The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor made his social media debut today as the couple took to their official Instagram page to welcome their new arrival. The newest member of the royal family, who was born on Monday, managed to rake in over 1.4million likes on one post within one hour of them being shared online at 3pm this afternoon. A second post showing the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh meeting their eighth great-grandchild for the first time was also shared on the royal couple's Instagram. Together, the two posts gathered more than 4.7million likes in eight hours. Four candid images were posted to the photo-sharing site and were taken by ex-soldier Chris Allerton, who was also the photographer behind the couple's Christmas card. After the official press call this afternoon the royal couple took to Instagram to post charming photographs of the three of them with a caption which read: 'Today The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are delighted to share their first public moment as a family. 'They are so incredibly grateful for the warm wishes and support theyve received from everyone around the world, since welcoming their son two days ago.' The couple then used their SussexRoyal account swiftly after the official photocall to post the photographs taken by Chris Allerton, who had previously served in the British Army (the first photograph, pictured above) In the second snap the couple look adoringly at their new arrival, whose name was later revealed to be Archie The third photograph (right) looked extremely similar to the couple's Christmas card photo (left) which was also taken by former soldier, Chris Allerton The two-day-old infant was lovingly cradled by his adoring father and watched attentively by Meghan, who was herself pictured for the first time in six weeks since withdrawing from public life ahead of the birth. The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept. They later shared another photograph with the three of them meeting the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, with the Duchess mother Doria Ragland present. The picture was used to announce the name of Harry and Meghan's son, with the caption reading: 'The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. 'This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen to her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess mother were also present for this special occasion.' Speaking for only three minutes from inside the majestic St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, a radiant Meghan declared: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days. Little Archie Harrison was introduced to the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Meghan's mother Doria by his proud parents Sneak peak: Master Archie was wrapped in a white blanket and appeared in a white bonnet, keeping whether he has any hair and what colour it is a mystery The couple appeared to be beside themselves with joy, giggling and looking into each other's eyes as they spoke, while Harry could not resist sneaking a peek down at his son as he apparently slept 'I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' Pictures taken at an official media call earlier this afternoon and released to the media through the Press Association had been taken by Dominic Lipinski. But while at the event, more candid photographs were taken by Allerton to post on Instagram. The first picture was a full length colour snap of the couple, which shows them walking out of the doors, Harry carrying Archie and Meghan gently placing her hand on the back of his arm. The second, is a black and white picture, with the couple looking adoringly at the newest member of the royal family. Last but not least, in homage to their wedding photos, Harry and Meghan struck a similar pose, the two of them walking down the hall, with their backs facing the camera, with Meghan looking up at Harry. Archie was barely visible, but his tiny face peaked out of his white bonnet and blanket as Harry held him in his arms, while Meghan lovingly touched his arm The loved-up couple waved to the camera (left) before walking off (right) as they prepared to introduce the infant to his great-grandmother, the Queen, later today Meghan touched her hair repeatedly throughout the photo call, which body language expert Judi James says is proof of her 'protective leadership role' Meghan placed a loving hand on her newborn son, who was tightly wrapped in a blanket and held throughout the photocall by his father Prince Harry For the birth of the child they opted not to use the traditional royal favourite of the Lindo Wing, which has been used for centuries by members of the family, including Kate Middleton and Diana Princess of Wales. Who is photographer Chris Allerton? Photographer and former soldier Chris Allerton took the four one of a kind royal shots earlier today, but who is the favoured photographer? Allerton is said to have developed his first roll of film at just eight years old and according to his website 'has been hooked on photography since'. Allerton left the British Army in 2001 and went on to Lichfield Studios in Notting Hill. Here he learnt the skills needed to master professional photography. He now travels all over the world and has clients such as Harpers Bazaar, Tatler and broadsheet newspapers. After taking photos at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in May last year, Allerton posted his thanks to the couple. He said: 'It was a great honour to be asked to photograph The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's wedding day in May. I am delighted that Their Highnesses chose this photograph for their Christmas card'. Allerton had previous studied at the University of Reading, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Prior to that he attended the prestigious Stowe School in Buckinghamshire. In 1992 he started his Army career and served there until 2001. He was commissioned into The Life Guards, Household Cavalry, before serving in Bosnia in 1994 and Singapore and Argentina in 1995. His last posting was in 1998 at the Adjutant New College at The Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst. He resigned commission in 2000. In 2001 he started work as a photographic director for Photographic Records. He worked there for over two years. He then decided to start his own company Allerton Photography, which has offices in both London and Wiltshire. Advertisement This meant that the first photos of the new royal baby had not been captured on the iconic steps and instead, were taken in the grounds of Windsor Castle. The couple are also said to have broken tradition as Harry was pictured holding the baby, rather than Meghan. The couple did however announce when Meghan had gone into labour and the birth of the child. Even at this point though they also released an Instagram post to their loyal followers, detailing that the gender of a baby was a boy. It had also previously been reported that the couple would also shun the tradition of hiring a Norland Nanny to look after the newest member of the royal family. Norland Nanny's have been employed by the royals for years, however, Harry and Meghan are said to have consulted with a a specialist recruitment agency in order to find the perfect nanny, with some suggesting that Meghan would want an American nanny in order to stay close to her US roots. In March the couple splashed out 50,000 to soundproof their home in the grounds of Windsor Castle, with sources also stated that the Duchess also wanted to use the Chinese art of feng shui to arrange furniture in the home as it 'created good vibes'. They moved into the property at the beginning of April in preparation for the arrival of the baby. Just weeks later, Meghan's mother Doria is said to have then flown out in order to be by her daughter's side. Prince Harry was also critcised last week after it had been announced that he would be attending a royal engagement in the Netherlands. Many people questioned the decision, as at this point, the baby had not yet been born. The trip was then pulled - sparking rumours that the birth of the royal baby was imminent. The duke and duchess also risked causing a row between rival media outlets after they insisted on a US broadcaster being present choosing to include the channel fronted by one of Meghan's best friends, Gayle King. By coincidence or not CBS's morning show is hosted by Meghan's friend Miss King, who was one of just 20 people to attend her lavish five-day baby shower in New York, leading to suggestions of favouritism. While the Queen was expected to be the first senior royal to officially meet the newborn, a giddy Meghan revealed how they accidentally bumped into the Duke of Edinburgh in the grounds of Windsor Castle while making their way to the photocall. She said: 'We just bumped into the duke as we were walking by which was so nice. So it'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well.' Asked who the baby takes after, Meghan added: 'We're still trying to figure that out.' Harry said: 'Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks we're basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really. But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows.' The newest member of the royal family, who was born on Monday, managed to rake in over 1.4million likes on the three photos within one hour of them being posted online The charming photographs of the three of them were posted to Instagram with a caption which read: 'Today The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are delighted to share their first public moment as a family' Next to a photo of the newborn with The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess' mother, the caption continued: 'They are so incredibly grateful for the warm wishes and support theyve received from everyone around the world, since welcoming their son two days ago' The two-day-old infant was lovingly cradled by his adoring father as the pair walked off with Meghan stroking the Prince's back in open support The Duchess looked lovingly at her baby as her husband brought him over to present him to the cameras - and the world, which had been waiting eagerly for a first glimpse of the baby Asked how he found parenting, Harry added: 'It's great. Parenting is amazing. Queen becomes the first member of the royal family to meet Baby Sussex officially today The Queen has become the first member of the royal family to meet the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son today. After introducing Baby Sussex to the world, the proud new parents have taken their son to see the 93-year-old monarch at Windsor Castle this afternoon. Her Majesty is meeting the two-day-old boy, who has been with his parents at their home in Frogmore Cottage, near her Windsor Castle residence, since Monday. Prior to taking him to see his great-grandmother, Harry and Meghan were overcome with pride as they posed for photos with their 'own little bundle of joy' in St George's Hall, at lunchtime today. Asked about going to see the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, Meghan said: 'We just bumped into the duke as we were walking by which was so nice. So it'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well.' Advertisement 'It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy.' Harry said they were looking forward to spending some 'precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up.' Later, asked to show more of their son's face to the cameras, Meghan laughed as Harry joked: 'He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well, wonderful.' Meghan added: 'Thank you everybody for all the well wishes and kindness, it just means so much.' Archie is seventh in line to the throne and the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh's eighth great-grandchild and the Prince of Wales's fourth grandchild. Shortly after the first photographs surfaced worldwide, royal fans went into meltdown as they declared that the baby looks 'just like Momma'. Others were quick to point out 'beautiful' Meghan looked post-birth, after the duchess was pictured for the first time in six weeks after going on maternity leave from public appearances. In what was seen as a break from royal procedure, the photocall took place two days after the birth near Frogmore Cottage, where Meghan has been recovering since Monday alongside her mother Doria Ragland. The world has been given its first ever glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son today as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe Meghan and Harry's baby was born weighing 7lb 3oz at 5.26am on Monday, May 6. Archie was back home with his mother, father and grandmother Doria Ragland within hours of being born The royal couple and new parents smiled as they listened to questions from the press. They said they were looking forward to introducing the baby to the Queen and Prince Philip, after accidentally 'bumping into' the Duke earlier today Body language expert Judi James has said Meghan displayed some level of anxiety, but her loving looks at her son and her husband showed how happy she is to be a mother A smiling Meghan cannot keep her eyes off her husband and new baby as the couple unveil their new 'bundle of joy' today The Duke of Sussex looks lovingly at his wife and the mother of his first child as the pair have a brief chat with reporters The beaming couple look completely besotted with their new son as they arrive at St George's Hall to give the world the first glimpse of Baby Sussex Protective mother: Meghan sought to 'protect and reassure' her baby as her husband cradled him throughout the photo call The couple revealed their plans to present their newborn to the Queen later today, having bumped into the Duke of Edinburgh shortly before the photocall Meghan clutched onto Harry's arm as her husband cradled the baby in his arms. They spoke to members of the press for just a few minutes but said they were elated to be parents and their son has been a 'dream' so far A smiling Meghan gives her newborn son a quick glance before facing media for the first time since she gave birth on Monday The unanswered questions: How Meghan and Harry are yet to reveal the baby was born and who his godparents will be Harry and Meghan beamed as they presented their newborn son to the world at St George's Hall, Windsor Castle this afternoon. They spoke of their delight at becoming parents and Baby Sussex's 'calm temperament'. But they still haven't disclosed where he was born. Here is a list of things we are still waiting to find out about the newest addition to the Royal Family: Where was he born? A home birth or hospital Royal sources told The Mail this week that Meghan's hopes of a home birth at Frogmore Cottage were dashed after she went more than a week over her due date. But Harry and Meghan are yet to confirm whether Baby Sussex was born at home in Windsor or in a hospital. They were rumoured to have opted for Frimley Park NHS Hospital in Surrey, but it is now believed Meghan may have chosen The Portland Hospital in central London. Childbirth packages at The Portland cost between 15,000 and 20,000. It is also still unclear whether Meghan was induced. Will the baby have famous godparents? The Duke and Duchess are yet to reveal who they have chosen to be their son's god parents. There is a long list of famous names in the running, including Meghan's friends Jessica Mulroney, Serena Williams and Amal Clooney. Harry's potential choices include his cousin Zara Tindall and her husband Mike, his childhood friend Charlie Van Straubenzee and close pal Nicholas Van Cutsem. Will he have an American passport? Meghan and Harry want their as-yet-unnamed child to grow up a global citizen, royal insiders have said. The couple have made no secret of their wish to be the 'inclusive' face of the monarchy. The boy would be entitled to a US passport because his mother was born in Los Angeles and is still an American citizen. His parents would first have to apply for American citizenship on his behalf. A senior source stressed nothing has been decided yet, but added: 'I think it is likely that they will.' Advertisement While the Duchess of Cambridge faced the media outside the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital a few hours after all three of their children were born, American-born Meghan is said to have considered the idea as archaic. Archie arrived at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz, and is thought to have been born at the Portland Hospital in London, a plush US-owned hospital favoured by many wealthy American expats. Meghan - who had been more than a week overdue - is believed to have gone into labour late on Sunday, when she was driven 28 miles away to a London hospital, ending her hopes of a home birth. It comes after Harry and Meghan, 37, insisted that a US broadcaster be present during the unveiling of their baby son, choosing a channel fronted by one of Meghan's best friends. The couple arranged for CBS, the network whose morning show is fronted by the duchess's confidante Gayle King a guest at her New York baby shower to join a small British media contingent for the photocall. Miss King was with the couple at their private residence of Frogmore Cottage at the weekend, having arrived in the UK to film what she called a 'royal special'. The show, Meghan and Harry Plus One, is set to air on CBS on May 17, and will feature chats from royal insiders and Meghan's friends to mark the one-year anniversary of the royal marriage and the birth of their first child. It is thought the 64-year-old journalist returned to the US before Meghan was admitted to hospital in the early hours of Monday to give birth. The decision to include a US broadcaster came as a surprise to British television channels including the BBC and ITV not to mention many at Buckingham Palace. Their inclusion caused a storm among rival media outlets with the Queen's former press secretary Dickie Arbiter, who comments on royal matters for a host of networks including the BBC, ITV, and Sky, warning it is 'treading on dodgy ground'. Mr Arbiter said the stated reason - that the inclusion of CBS in the pool means the pictures will make US breakfast shows - was a 'fatuous excuse' because syndication deals would have ensured US coverage without the CBS presence. He alluded to Meghan's close ties to King saying 'choosing a US network, fiend [sic] or not, is treading on dodgy ground'. Despite CBS's attendance, a royal source said it would not receive any exclusive content from the photocall and would be expected to share all of its material. But the American network's involvement in such a high-profile event usually reserved for British media representatives will still be viewed as a huge scoop stateside. Last night a palace aide said: 'There is an international cameraman accredited to the pool facility tomorrow. CBS will provide the cameraman. 'This reflects the international interest in the story. The international camera spot was self-selected and the pictures will be available for pool use.' Elated: Harry's wide, genuine smile melted the hearts of royal fans across the globe as he was unable to hide his joy Meghan has been praised for her 'natural' make-up and wearing a dress that didn't try to hide her 'mum tum'. Here she touches her forehead as Harry explains what the first few days of parenting have been like Royal fans are desperate to know what colour hair and eyes Baby Sussex has, so they can gage his likeness to Meghan and Harry. The little baby was largely covered up when he appeared for the first time and kept his eyes closed throughout Meghan gave a nervous giggle as Harry gave a small speech to the press. The prince is seen looking lovingly at her in Windsor Peaceful: Asked if he was sleeping well, Meghan said her baby boy has been a 'dream' so far and has a 'calm temperament' The reporter who conducted the first interview with the three Sussexes asked Harry and Meghan to tip him forward slightly so viewers could catch a better glimpse of him Look of love: Meghan gazes lovingly at Harry after describing him and her son as her 'two guys' as they spoke to the media Harry and Meghan thanked well-wishers for all their love and support and said it 'means the world' before they turned their backs and walked away, with Meghan lovingly rubbing Harry's shoulder According to body language expert Judi James, Meghan 'rewarded' Harry with a loving pat on the back as they walked away from the cameras inside St George's Hall at Windsor Castle this afternoon 'We're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy': How Meghan and Harry introduced their newborn son to the world The Duke and Duchess of Sussex spoke of their delight as they presented their newborn son to the world. Speaking in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle as her husband held their two-day-old child, Meghan said: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. 'He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' As they both laughed, Harry said: 'I don't know who he gets that from.' Meghan added: 'He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days.' Asked who the baby takes after, Meghan said: 'We're still trying to figure that out.' Harry said: 'Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks we're basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really. 'But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows.' Asked how he found parenting, Harry added: 'It's great. Parenting is amazing. It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy and be able to spend some precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up.' Asked about going to see the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, Meghan said: 'We just bumped into the duke as we were walking by which was so nice. 'So it'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well.' Harry added: 'Another great grandchild.' Asked to show more of their son's face to the cameras, Meghan laughed as Harry joked: 'He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well, wonderful.' Meghan added: 'Thank you everybody for all the well wishes and kindness, it just means so much.' Advertisement It came as royal fans patiently waited for their first glimpse of the newborn in a photo shoot, with took place today. The event was covered by Sky News, which was selected randomly following other submissions from the BBC and ITV. According to ITV's royal correspondent Chris Ship, the same process was undertaken to decide which American network would cover the event. He was told CBS was also picked at random following submissions by fellow US broadcasters NBC and ABC. A source said last night the arrangements were made to 'reflect the international interest in the story'. By coincidence or not CBS's morning show is hosted by Meghan's great friend Miss King, who is also close to Oprah Winfrey, another a friend of the royal couple and a guest at their wedding. Handily for her, it is expected that footage of Baby Sussex will be broadcast in America in time for her popular breakfast show, This Morning. CBS star Miss King was among just 20 guests to attend Meghan's lavish five-day baby shower in New York in February, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams. Senior royals have already spoken about the joy of the new arrival, with Prince William saying on Tuesday he was 'absolutely thrilled' and 'looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down'. He added: 'I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting.' His wife Kate beamed: 'As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. 'These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best.' The Prince of Wales has also spoken publicly for the first time about the birth, saying he was 'delighted' at arrival of his latest grandchild. During an official visit to Germany with the Duchess of Cornwall, Charles said on Tuesday: 'We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return.' The Queen looked relaxed and excited at the Windsor Horse Show this morning ahead of meeting her new great-grandson later today The Queen was in Berkshire today for the Royal Windsor Horse Show (pictured this morning), ahead of a meeting with her new great-grandson this afternoon Her Majesty was pictured this morning enjoying the horse show, wrapped up against the wind and rain as she watched the annual event The newborn is the seventh-in-line to the British throne and the eighth great-grandchild of the 93-year-old Queen (pictured today at the Royal Windsor Horse Show) The Queen wrapped up against the rain and cold this morning as she attended the Windsor Horse Show ahead of today's photocall with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex What a day! Kate stretches out a hand as she arrives with Prince William in rural North Wales this morning - while the rest of the world waited for a first glimpse of new royal arrival Baby Sussex. Braving the rain, the Duchess, 36, looked stylish in a striking red blazer with military gold buttons by Lorenzo Serafini, as the couple landed at the Caernarfon Coastguard and Rescue Helicopter Base Kate gets her baby fix! With the Duchess desperate to meet her new nephew, this little tot was greeted with a glowing smile from the mother-of-three as she enjoyed a tour - including a go in a chopper - at the Caernarfon coastguard search and rescue helicopter base Just call me Uncle William! The Prince, 36, laughs as he chats to some older children during the royals tour of the rescue base Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, arrive at the Leipzig train Station in Leipzig this morning during their three-day trip to Germany How Meghan and Harry's son is SEVENTH in line to the throne after his father The baby boy comes behind their father Prince Harry in the line of succession. He will supersede Andrew in the line of succession following a 2011 change in law that granted the same status to sons and daughters. But the child will not be given the title of prince and he will instead be known as the Earl of Dumbarton. 1. Prince Charles 2. Prince William 3. Prince George 4. Princess Charlotte 5. Prince Louis 6. Prince Harry 7. Baby Sussex 8. Prince Andrew 9. Princess Beatrice 10. Princess Eugenie 11. Prince Edward 12. James, Viscount Severn 13. Lady Louise Windsor 14. Princess Anne 15. Peter Phillips 16. Savannah Phillips 17. Isla Phillips 18. Zara Tindall 19. Mia Tindall 20. Lena Tindall Advertisement Harry's grandmother the Queen accepted the congratulations of a Windsor Castle guest who asked: 'Life is good for Your Majesty?' The Queen, who was joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, was hosting a lunch on Tuesday for members of the Order of Merit and smiling said in reply 'yes, thank you'. The infant is believed to be the first mixed-race child born to a senior member of the royal family in centuries and is seen as a reflection of modern Britain with its culturally diverse population. Following his birth on Monday morning, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's son is now seventh-in-line to the British throne. The baby boy comes behind their father Prince Harry in the line of succession, bumping his uncle, the Duke of York, Prince Andrew further down the line into eighth place. But the child will not be given the title of prince and he will instead be known as the Earl of Dumbarton. The baby boy is expected to take the surname Sussex for school or nursery in the same way as William and Kate's children, George, Charlotte and Louis, taking 'Cambridge'. The baby will supersede Andrew in the line of succession, regardless of gender, following a 2011 change in law that granted the same status to sons and daughters. But as the second son of the current Prince of Wales, Harry's children are not automatically given the title of prince or princess. King George V - Harry's great great grandfather - limited titles within the royal family in 1917. This means Harry and Meghan's first born, as a great-grandchild of the sovereign, is too far down the line of succession to be an HRH. George V declared that 'the grandchildren of the sons of any such Sovereign in the direct male line (save only the eldest living son of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales) shall have and enjoy in all occasions the style and title enjoyed by the children of Dukes of these Our Realms'. The eldest son and heir apparent of a duke can use one of his father's lesser grade peerage titles by courtesy, according to Debrett's. So a first son of Harry's would become Earl of Dumbarton - one of the subsidiary titles Harry received from the Queen on the morning of his wedding. A daughter would be Lady (first name) Mountbatten-Windsor, and any subsequent sons Lord (first name) Mounbatten-Windsor. But the Queen could make changes to allow Harry and Meghan's children to be HRHs and princes and princesses. Queen's former press secretary blasts Harry and Meghan's decision to give her friend Gayle King's US TV station CBS special access The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were today slammed by Queen's former press spokesman as they unveiled their newborn son in a stage-managed photocall with a camera crew from an American TV station. Harry and Meghan posed for meticulously planned photos at Windsor Castle - inviting a camera from CBS, the network whose morning show is fronted by the duchess's confidante Gayle King, a guest at her New York baby shower - to join a small media contingent. Playing by their own rules, they seemingly snubbed British and Commonwealth broadcasters, choosing to time the three-minute long conference to correspond with the US breakfast TV shows. The Queen's former press secretary, Dickie Arbiter, was among those who blasted the couple's decision, warning they were 'treading on dodgy ground' by choosing a US broadcaster. While the inclusion of CBS in the media pool was purportedly to allow the pictures to make US Breakfast Shows, Mr Arbiter labelled this 'a fatuous excuse' because syndication deals would have ensured US coverage. The Queen's former press spokesman's tweet this afternoon Advertisement Despite his high-profile birth, Baby Sussex will not be titled His or Her Royal Highness (HRH) unless the Queen intervenes. Harry and Meghan's baby boy is not officially a royal, despite being seventh in line to the throne, after George V limited titles within the family during the First World War. HRH status normally lapses after two royal generations - except for the eldest son of the eldest son of the eldest son of the monarch, which is Prince George. But the Queen decreed all of William and Kate's children should be HRH - which is why Princess Charlotte is not Lady Charlotte, and Prince Louis is not Lord Louis. This is why George V's grandchildren the Duke of Gloucester, the Duke of Kent, Prince Michael of Kent and Princess Alexandra are HRH but their children are not. However, the rules can be changed if the monarch wishes - so Baby Sussex could still officially become a royal. Additionally, once Prince Charles becomes King, the baby will automatically become HRH because they will then be the grandchild of a reigning sovereign. Just seven years ago the Queen changed the rules for the benefit of the children of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who had yet to start a family at that time. She decreed all of their children should be HRH, not just Prince George - which gives Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis their royal titles. Another example is of the two children of the Earl and Countess of Wessex Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and Viscount Severn who are both HRH. They could therefore be called Princess Louise and Prince James, but their parents prefer them not to use their royal titles - and the Queen has agreed. Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, the daughters of the Duke and Duchess of York, are both HRH by being children of the Queen's son Prince Andrew. Within hours of becoming new parents, the happy couple had returned to their home, Frogmore Cottage (above), with their infant son Meghan and Harry are thought to have welcomed their first son into the world at the private Portland Hospital in London, where even a 'basic' delivery costs 15,000 Prince Harry was clearly delighted to be a new father as he discussed the news of his son's birth in an impromptu press conference at Windsor Castle on Monday Why Harry carried his son and what Meghan's 'protective' hair-touching hints about her parenting style: Body language expert decodes the meanings in the Sussexes' first family outing By Chloe Morgan for MailOnline Proud father Prince Harry cradled his two-day-old baby as he introduced him to the world this afternoon, while 'protective' Meghan stood by her men. The Duchess of Sussex, 37, placed her hand on her husband's right arm and continued to play with her hair before giving her husband a rub on the back during the photo call which took place in St Georges Hall. Body language expert Judi James explained that while the Duke of Sussex was the one holding their baby boy, Meghan gave him 'reassuring touches' throughout. Body language expert Judi James explained that while the Duke of Sussex was the one holding their two-day-old son, Meghan gave him 'reassuring touches' throughout. Pictured, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire Proud father Prince Harry cradled his baby boy as he introduced him to the world this afternoon. Judi added that he 'took his duties seriously' George Clooney says he hopes treatment of Meghan will be 'kinder' now she is a mother George and Amal had been attending the Catch 22 premier when George spoke out about his friend Meghan American actor George Clooney has said he hopes the Duchess of Sussex will receive 'kinder' treatment' now that she had become a mother. The 58-year-old, who attended the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, with his wife Amal, had previously complained that Meghan had been 'pursued and vilified' and had compared her struggles to that of the late Princess of Wales. Clooney, who lives close to the royal couple's new home in Windsor, said he thought that them becoming parents would 'intensify' the scrutiny. He said: 'It's never about the media following you around, because that, in part, if you're a royal, that's part of what you have to do. 'It's the other versions of it - going to interview people's parents, that kind of stuff.' The star, who has denied he will be godfather to the baby, said it starts to 'step into a really dark place'. 'I think people should be a little kinder. She's a young woman who just had a baby.' The Clooneys have previously holidayed with the Sussexes in Italy, with Amal Clooney having also attended Meghan's luxury baby shower. Advertisement Speaking exclusively to Femail, she said: 'This was pretty much a first in senior royal baby body language with Meghan standing by her "two guys" using protective and reassuring touches and signs while Harry cradled the baby throughout.' The decision for Prince Harry to hold the baby is a stark contrast to Prince William and Kate - as she has been the one to cradle each of their newborns outside the Lindo Wing. 'Harry took his duties seriously and the softening of his facial features as he looked at his new baby formed a very besotted looking "look of love," Judi added. Throughout the photo call, Meghan could also be seen playing with her hair as well as gently stroking the baby's head. 'Meghan's hair and face-touch rituals suggested some slight anxiety but overall it was her taking the protective leadership role,' explained the expert. 'She even rewarded Harry with a loving pat and back rub as they walked away from the cameras.' Speaking to FEMAIL, she also pointed out that while the parents looked lovingly at their newborn, the love was still evident between them, too. 'Prince Harry and and Meghan still used some intense eye contact with one another,' she said. 'They're keeping their own loving communications alive while they cooed over the baby.' Baby Sussex was born early hours on Monday and weighed 7lb 3oz. Meghan and Harry could not hide their delight as they posed for pictures with the tiny infant in the majestic St George's Hall in Windsor Castle, just two days after he was born. The duchess declared: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy.' As her husband held their son, Meghan added: 'He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' While the couple cooed over their newborn baby, they also gave each other a 'very besotted looking "look of love," according to the expert. Pictured, Meghan standing by her "two guys" Judi explained that this was 'a first in senior royal baby body language' as it's previously been the mother who has cradled the newborn. Pictured, the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William at St Mary's Hospital with newborn son Prince George on 23 July 2013 Kate once again was the one to hold adorable baby Charlotte when she was welcomed into the world on May 2 2015 How Harry and Meghan have broken with tradition by waiting two days to unveil their newborn in stage-managed photocall - in stark contrast to William and Kate and Charles and Diana By Alexander Robertson for MailOnline The first photograph of a royal baby became not just a British but a global phenomenon in the 20th century, with the world's media and royal fans across the globe ever eager to catch a fleeting glimpse of new prince or princess. In recent times, senior royals such as the Duchess of Cambridge and Diana, Princess of Wales have all been photographed holding their newborns outside the hospitals where they gave birth. But in what was seen as a break from recent royal procedure, today's photocall took place two days after the birth near Frogmore Cottage, where Meghan has been recovering since Monday alongside her mother Doria Ragland. While the Duchess of Cambridge faced the media outside the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital a few hours after all three of their children were born, American-born Meghan is said to have considered the idea as archaic. Her husband Prince Harry was photographed in similar conditions after he came into the world at the private Lindo Wing at 4.20pm, weighing 6lb 14oz, on September 15, 1984. Harry, now the Duke of Sussex, arrived in the same room at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, London, where older brother Prince William was born two years earlier. The Princess of Wales was in labour for nine hours and the delivery of the baby prince, then third in line to the throne, was said to be uncomplicated. Charles, who had been at Diana's side, told the waiting crowd that the arrival had been 'much quicker than last time' and his baby son had 'pale blue eyes' and hair of 'a sort of indeterminate colour'. Speaking to reporters, he described the baby as 'marvellous', adding when asked if he expected a boy: 'No. It doesn't matter what it was as long as it's alright... I couldn't be more delighted.' The prince had first phoned the Queen, and then Diana's father Earl Spencer, telling him: 'He's a lovely baby.' The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are pictured on the steps of the Lindo Wing following the birth of George in 2013 (shown left) and Charlotte in 2015 (right) Prince Charles and Princess Diana are shown leaving St Mary's Hospital after the birth of their first baby son Prince William in 1982 (left), and at the same hospital two years later for the birth of Harry (right) Less than 24 hours later, 23-year-old Diana left hospital as the proud parents showed off their newborn on the steps of the Lindo. Two-year-old William had been brought in the morning by his father to meet his younger brother. Queen's former press secretary blasts Harry and Meghan's decision to give her friend Gayle King's US TV station CBS special access The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were today slammed by Queen's former press spokesman as they unveiled their newborn son in a stage-managed photocall with a camera crew from an American TV station. Harry and Meghan posed for meticulously planned photos at Windsor Castle - inviting a camera from CBS, the network whose morning show is fronted by the duchess's confidante Gayle King, a guest at her New York baby shower - to join a small media contingent. Playing by their own rules, they seemingly snubbed British and Commonwealth broadcasters, choosing to time the three-minute long conference to correspond with the US breakfast TV shows. The Queen's former press secretary, Dickie Arbiter, was among those who blasted the couple's decision, warning they were 'treading on dodgy ground' by choosing a US broadcaster. While the inclusion of CBS in the media pool was purportedly to allow the pictures to make US Breakfast Shows, Mr Arbiter labelled this 'a fatuous excuse' because syndication deals would have ensured US coverage. The Queen's former press spokesman's tweet this afternoon Advertisement The newspapers reported how the blond toddler, who was dressed in red shorts, a white shirt with red embroidery, white ankle socks and traditional leather bar shoes, ran down the corridor into Diana's arms as she called his name. He was said to be 'very, very excited about seeing his new brother'. One royal aide revealed at the time: 'There was a lot of laughter coming from the princess's bedroom.' The introduction was judged a success, with William holding baby Harry's hand as he lay in his cot. He reportedly spent 20 minutes there, before being taken home by his nanny Barbara Barnes, waving to the crowds as he left like a royal pro. Harry, whose full name was announced as Prince Henry Charles Albert David of Wales, made his first journey in the back of a blue Daimler home to nearby Kensington Palace. Hours later, Charles celebrated the birth with an impromptu drinks party from the back of a Land Rover at Smith's Lawn polo ground in Windsor. Hours later, Charles celebrated the birth with an impromptu drinks party from the back of a Land Rover at Smith's Lawn polo ground in Windsor. The princess years later told her biographer Andrew Morton when she collaborated with him on the bombshell book Diana: Her True Story that she had known Harry would be a boy, but not told her husband. 'I knew Harry was going to be a boy because I saw it on the scan. Charles always wanted a girl... I knew Harry was a boy and I didn't tell him,' she said. Diana claimed Charles's first comment was, 'Oh God, it's a boy', followed by 'and he's even got red hair'. The prince's joke was the beginning of the end of their marriage, with Diana recalling: 'Something inside me closed off.' The prince's biographer Jonathan Dimbleby wrote that following Harry's birth, the couple were living 'within the shell of a normal marriage' and lacked 'intimacy and mutual understanding'. Dimbleby said that, in the months that followed Harry's birth, Diana continued to suffer from mood swings, distress and paranoia, and that the gulf between husband and wife, who went on to separate in 1992, failed to close. The world gets its first glimpse of Princess Beatrice in the arms of the Duchess of York outside Portland Hospital in London in 1988 One of the first official photographs of the Duke and Duchess of York at Balmoral with their daughter Princess Beatrice, released two weeks after her birth in 1988 Prince Andrew and Sarah Duchess of York with new baby daughter Princess Eugenie, pictured as they leave the Portland Hospital in London in 1990 Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips are seen leaving St. Mary's Hospital in Paddington with their daughter Zara in 1981 (left). Shown right, Princess Anne says goodbye to her gynaecologist George Pinker after the birth of Peter in 1977 Prince Edward and Sophie Countess Of Wessex present their baby son James, Viscount Severn to the world outside Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey in 2007 'Just like momma!': Fans are left in tears over the first glimpse of Baby Sussex - and everyone's convinced he looks exactly like Meghan By Claire Toureille For Mailonline Royal fans have gone into meltdown after Harry and Meghan introduced Baby Sussex to the world for the first time, declaring that he looks 'just like Momma'. Although Harry and Meghan declined to say who they think he takes after, royal fans were sure the new baby resembles his mother. 'Everyone says the baby has changed so much over the two weeks. We are basically monitoring how the changing process over this next month. But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows,' Harry said. Declaring the newborn 'precious', Twitter users were overjoyed at seeing the new arrival after a long wait, when Meghan went over her due date. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were seen with their newborn son for the first time today, following his arrival early Monday morning. Peter Andre was among the first people to send their wellwishes to the new parents following today's historic photocall Royal supporters were delighted to see the strong similarity between royal mother and son New parents Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, beamed with pride as they took part in a photo call within St George's Hall in Windsor, near their home at Frogmore Cottage. Within minutes of the photos being shared, royal supporters from around the world shared their delight on Twitter and Instagram. Unlike the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Harry and Meghan decided to eschew the royal tradition of posing for photos with the baby in the hours after the birth in favour of keeping the moment private for family. However the couple did make plans to introduce their son today and appeared in front of a handful of members of the press. Harry and Meghan have been enjoying the experience of being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle residence. Fans welcomed Baby Sussex with memes, gushing over how cute he looked following his big unveiling to the world's media today Boxer Frank Bruno was one of the first celebrities to congratulated the couple once the pictures were beamed across the world this afternoon Family members spoke about the joy of the new arrival with the Duke of Cambridge saying on Tuesday he was 'obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down'. He added: 'I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting.' Harry was at his wife's side during the birth on Monday and he later confessed he had only had a few hours' sleep, suggesting Meghan had spent much of the night in labour. Kate revealed they had no clues about the baby's name but were eager to see the Sussexes and their new arrival. She said: 'As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. Advertisement Japan's new emperor Naruhito donned a traditional robe and huge headdress to perform prayers, days after ascending to the throne. He performed a Shinto ritual at the palace to report to imperial family gods the plans for the main ceremonies of his succession later this year. Naruhito ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1, the day after his father Akihito abdicated. Wearing a headdress and a dark orange 'ancient' outfit, Naruhito prayed at the Kashikodokoro shrine, followed by palace officials who carried the imperial regalia of a sacred sword and jewel he inherited from his father. The 59-year-old emperor later prayed at two other main palace shrines wearing a robe based on the ninth century design called a 'Korozen no goho'. On the day of his abdication eight days ago, Akihito wore the same robe in a ritual to show his intention to step down to the sun goddess, Amaterasu. Japan's Emperor Naruhito taking part in an ancient ritual in Tokyo at the Kashikodokoro shrine to report to imperial family gods the plans for the main ceremonies of his succession later this year Emperor Naruhito wearing a robe based on a ninth century design, followed by aid who carried a sacred sword and jewel he inherited from his father Empress Masako joined her husband Emperor Naruhito for the ritual to the imperial family gods at the Kashikodokoro shrine in the grounds of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo Japan's new emperor Naruhito taking part in a ritual called Kashikodokoro-ni-Kijitsu-Hokoku-no-gi today, a ceremony for the emperor to report the dates of the Great Thanksgiving Ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo Naruhito's aides carried a sword and a jewel inherited from his father as proof of his ascension, following the 85-year-old renouncing the throne. These 'treasures' include a mirror, a sword and a gem - known as the Imperial Treasures or Regalia - and are said to come directly from the sun goddess Amaterasu, who passed them down to her great grandson and the first emperor of Japan, Emperor Jimmu. The enthronement ceremony, which sees priests present these objects to the new emperor, goes back to 690 and is always held in private with only the priests and the emperor seeing the items. No known drawings or photographs of the treasures exists, only speculative mark-ups based on historical accounts. Enshrined at the Kashikodokoro shrine is Amaterasu, the mythological ancestress of Japan's emperors. Although the ceremony goes back more than 1,300 years, the current palace was only used for the enthronement of the last three emperors as the capital of Japan used to be Kyoto and the imperial palace was moved to Tokyo in 1869. In ancient times when the head of a household died his house was burned and before the founding of Kyoto, whenever an emperor died his entire capital city was burned as a rite of purification. A main ascension ceremony is planned in October, when thousands of guests from Japan and overseas will be invited, followed by a religious harvest rite in November. Japan's Emperor Akihito began the process of abdicating on the morning of April 30 at the Imperial Palace in central Tokyo, taking part in a series of private ceremonies wearing an ancient robe Naruhito and his wife, Princess Masako, walk in front of his father Akihito and his wife Empress Michiko at the formal abdication ceremony on April 30 The harvest rite is funded by the government, which some experts say could violate the constitutional separation of state and religion. The new 59-year-old emperor is a historian who studied at Oxford. He is Japan's first emperor born after the Second World War and the first who has studied overseas. In a statement on his succession, Naruhito pledged to emulate his father in seeking peace and staying close to the people. Empress Masako also prayed at the three shrines after Naruhito on Wednesday for the first time since 2002, after which she had largely receded from public appearances due to stress-induced mental conditions. Akihito become the country's first ruler in 200 years to step down from the role when he handed the reigns over to his some. His rule officially ended at midnight on April 30 when his eldest son, then-Crown Prince Naruhito, ascended to the throne. The process will be officially recognised with a ceremony on Wednesday morning. The move spelt the end of the Heisei imperial era and the start of the Reiwa era - meaning beautiful harmony - which will last until the end of Naruhito's reign. Akihito said his age and ill health - he has been treated for prostate cancer and has undergone heart surgery - made him fearful that he would not be able to carry out his duties. There have been abdications in Japan's long imperial history, which has mythological origins and stretches back more than two millennia, but the last one was more than two centuries ago. Akihito was the first monarch to take the throne under a post-war constitution that defines the emperor as a symbol of the people without political power. He has sought to modernise Japan's imperial family, which has a sensitive position given the role his father Hirohito played in the country's militaristic past. The 85-year-old and his wife Empress Michiko won plaudits for a popular touch, notably comforting people affected by the 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown that devastated whole swathes of east Japan and killed thousands. His father, Hirohito, in whose name Japanese troops fought World War Two, was considered a living deity until after Japan's defeat in 1945, when he renounced his divinity. Klint Janulis, (pictured) who presents 10,000 BC on Channel 5 claimed he had crashed his car on his way home from a dinner at Trinity College, Oxford, after an animal jumped into the road A TV presenter and archaeologist who crashed his car into a ditch while drunk and then had a can of Stella Artois to 'frustrate' the investigation has been found guilty of drink driving. Klint Janulis, who presents 10,000 BC on Channel 5 claimed he had crashed his car on his way home from a dinner at Trinity College, Oxford, after an animal jumped into the road. The 39-year-old, who served in the US military for 14 years and is now doing a PhD in archaeology at Oxford University, said he had two glasses of wine at the dinner between 8pm and 9.30pm on October 31, 2018. While driving home to Lower Heyford, he crashed his Toyota into a ditch on the B430 between Middleton Stoney and Weston-on-the-Green at around 12.45am. At Oxford Magistrates' Court on Friday, Janulis told the court that he did not sustain any injuries and called his wife, Amanda, who picked him up and took him home. A member of public who saw the car in the ditch called the police, who arrived at the scene at 1.11am. PC Clark, who appeared in court, said that after discovering Janulis was not there, he and his colleague PC Perry went to his house at about 1.45am. Janulis's wife anticipated their arrival and invited the police in. PC Clark asked Janulis for his driving licence and when he came back into the lobby, he was holding a can of Stella Artois beer. The police asked him when he had last consumed alcohol, to which Janulis replied: 'A few seconds ago.' PC Clark then said that he would do a breathalyser test on Janulis who said: 'You can do the test but it's going to fail.' The reading came out at 78mcg/100ml of breath - twice the legal limit. Janulis told the court that he was not drunk at the time of the accident and that he had only had a small amount of alcohol at the dinner. Janulis (pictured left) was found guilty and ordered him to pay 750 in court costs, a 660 fine and a 66 victim surcharge. He was banned from driving in the UK for 80 weeks, however his defence is appealing to the crown to lift the disqualification Once he returned home, he said he had then drunk a glass of wine, one mason jar of wine and almost two cans of beer. Janulis, who has also written children's books, was discharged from the US military with PTSD. He told the court that when he was in service, he was advised by his commanders to drink alcohol to de-stress after operations. After the accident, which he said caused him to have an episode as it involved him being trapped, he said 'stress drinking' was a way to cope with the situation. Prosecutor Richard Atkinson, said: 'The reason for drinking was not because of PTSD, it was to frustrate the police from carrying out their duty. The sheer quantity consumed after the accident leads to believe that he had drunk to frustrate the investigation.' Magistrate Stephen Vickers found Janulis guilty of one charge of drink driving and ordered him to pay 750 in court costs, a 660 fine and a 66 victim surcharge. He was banned from driving in the UK for 80 weeks, however his defence is appealing to the crown to lift the disqualification. A Russian plane was evacuated after passengers said they smelled burning last night on board the same model of aircraft which crashed in Moscow on Sunday. The revolt broke out on a Sukhoi Superjet-100 after passengers had boarded a flight from Moscow to Riga, Latvia. Terrified customers said they smelled burning wire, causing a panic in the cabin just two days after the crash-landing which killed 41 people. Passengers fled for safety and demanded that the plane be checked while Aeroflot staff called fire engines to the tarmac. Evacuation: Passengers leave a Russian Superjet plane in Moscow last night after a panic in the cabin when customers smelled burning on board In the end the plane was deemed safe and it took off two hours later but the latest scare will cause fresh concern about the Superjet fleet. Russian officials have insisted the model is safe but it remains unclear why a lightning strike should have caused the Aeroflot flight to crash-land on Sunday. 'People were scared because of the recent tragedy on May 5 when the same type of plane burned in the same airport of Sheremetyevo,' reports in Russia said. 'Passengers asked for the plane to be checked and stewards guided them out of the cabin.' One passenger named Pavel said: 'Fire engines were brought to the plane right before the flight.' More than 160,000 people have signed a petition demanding that the Superjet be grounded in the wake of last weekend's tragedy. The SSJ100, also known as the Superjet, was heralded when it went into service in 2011 as a new phase for Russia's civil aviation industry. It was introduced as a replacement for outdated Soviet-era planes but has been dogged by problems. Cabin panic: A view inside the plane where passengers feared disaster after smelling burning on board the same model of plane which crashed on Sunday Emergency: A fire engine is seen from a plane window after demanded that Aeroflot staff check the jet's safety checked Russian investigators are still examining why the plane, which had to turn back to Moscow after a lightning strike took out its communications, went down in flames. A report of a conversation between the pilot and air traffic control revealed that the pilot remained calm as he requested an emergency landing and did not assess the situation as critical. One line of inquiry is whether pilot error could have caused the crash. Sources told Russian media that the Aeroflot pilots made a number of errors including flying into a thunderstorm and landing with a full tank of fuel. However, it has also been suggested that the pilots may have thought it too dangerous to dump fuel over the city of Moscow. Pilot Denis Evdokimov has insisted he followed the correct procedures for landing with excess weight and one aviation expert has hailed his handling of the plane. Investigators are now looking into the cause of the crash, which happened shortly after the plane took off from Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport headed for Murmansk Survivors described how people panicked as the plane came in to land trailing thick smoke and flames, rushing to the escape exits at the front of the aircraft Investigators are still examining the black boxes from the plane and have so far given no official reason for the crash. Some of those who escaped were carrying luggage, raising concerns that grabbing their bags may have delayed an evacuation in which every second was critical. 'I do not know what to say about people who ran out with bags. God is their judge,' survivor Mikhail Savchenko wrote on Facebook. Footage showed how cabin crew watched the blaze in horror after escaping the burning plane, knowing there were passengers still inside. Two stewardesses in red Aeroflot uniforms are seen staring in disbelief on the tarmac as smoke and flames pour from the Superjet plane. Recovery: Emergency workers at the scene of the crash yesterday after passengers scrambled to evacuate the jet following its emergency landing in Moscow on Sunday Disaster: A huge fireball erupts from the Superjet plane after it crash landed in Moscow The Flightradar24 tracking service showed that the stricken made two circles around Moscow in what may have been a last-ditch attempt to lose fuel One of them appears to be Tatiana Kasatkina, the flight attendant hailed as a hero for kicking open a door and throwing passengers out to safety. The two women try to comfort struggling passengers - who are seen collapsing amid the smoke - but are forced to abandon those still trapped inside the inferno. The first fire engine arrived at the scene at 6.32 pm, two minutes after the plane landed at 6.30 pm, Sheremetyevo airport said in a detailed timeline of the incident. It said that air traffic control had given out an alarm signal one minute after the plane landed, after which fire engines were supposed to arrive at the scene within 3 minutes according to norms. The fire was fully extinguished 18 minutes after it broke out, the airport said. Air traffic control only called for emergency services to go to the runway after talking the pilot through landing, Ren TV reported. Survivor Oleg Molchanov wrote on an online forum that toxic black smoke filling the cabin within seconds was the reason evacuation from the back was difficult. Relatives and friends of victims are seen gathered awaiting information at Sheremetyevo airport in Moscow following the crash on Sunday. The plane was a Sukhoi Superjet headed from Russia's capital to Murmansk A Canadian man handed the death penalty for drug smuggling in China will appeal his sentence Thursday, in a case that has deepened the diplomatic rift between Beijing and Canada. The appeal comes against the backdrop of Beijing's anger over the December arrest of Meng Wanzhou, a senior executive at Chinese tech giant Huawei, who faces a US extradition hearing in Canada on Wednesday. Robert Lloyd Schellenberg was sentenced to death on drug trafficking charges in January. Mr Schellenberg was initially sentenced 15 years in prison last year, but a high court deemed the decision 'too lenient' and gave him the death penalty in an open hearing on January 14 Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau denounced the decision as 'arbitrarily' chosen. Schellenberg's appeal will take place Thursday morning at the Dalian Intermediate People's Court in northeastern Liaoning province, a source familiar with the case told AFP. The Dalian court declined to comment. The provincial level Liaoning High People's Court did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment. The appeal comes against the backdrop of Beijing's anger over the December arrest of Meng Wanzhou, a senior executive at Chinese tech giant Huawei, who faces a US extradition hearing in Canada on Wednesday Robert Lloyd Schellenberg was sentenced to death on drug trafficking charges in January 'Canada remains extremely concerned that China has chosen to apply the death penalty, a cruel and inhumane punishment,' Canadian foreign ministry spokeswoman Brittany Fletcher said in an email to AFP. Canadian officials plan to attend Thursday's hearing. 'Canada has requested, and will continue to seek, clemency for Mr Schellenberg,' she said. Schellenberg was originally sentenced to 15 years in prison and a 150,000-yuan ($22,000) forfeiture in November. But following an appeal, the high court in Liaoning ruled in December that the sentence was too lenient given the severity of his crimes. About a month later, his sentence was changed to capital punishment. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is pictured addressing the media in Ottawa in January. He said he was concerned that China had chosen to 'arbitrarily' apply death penalty to a Canadian China has executed foreigners for drug-related crimes in the past, including a Japanese national in 2014, a Filipina in 2013, and a Briton in 2009. Last week, another Canadian, Fan Wei, was sentenced to death for drug trafficking in a separate case in southern China. Schellenberg's case is seen as potential leverage for Meng, who was arrested on a US extradition request related to Iran sanctions violations - a link that Beijing has repeatedly denied. Following the Huawei executive's arrest in December, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in what observers saw as retaliation. Schellenberg's appeal will take place Thursday morning at the Dalian Intermediate People's Court (pictured) in northeastern Liaoning province, a source familiar with the case told AFP Days after Canada launched the extradition process against Meng in March, China announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets. It alleged fellow Canadian Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Both men have been denied access to lawyers and allowed only monthly consular visits. Meng is free on bail in Vancouver as the extradition process continues. The diplomatic row appears to have has spilled over into the economic arena: China has banned Canadian canola shipments worth billions of dollars. Beijing has punished other countries with trade sanctions over diplomatic spats in the past. The son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has been named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor. Archie is the shortened version of Archibald, a traditionally Scottish name which is said to mean 'true, bold and brave'. Unlike many senior royals, Archie only has one middle name - Harrison - which is of Aboriginal origin and, in a fitting tribute to the baby's father, means 'son of Henry' or 'son of Harry'. Many in Britain had expected a more traditional royal name, as bookies favoured James, Arthur, and Edward, with Archie sitting at around 100/1. The newest arrival to the royal family has been named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten Windsor Harry and Meghan (above left and right) appeared with their new bundle of joy and thanked members of the public for their support The baby shares his moniker with one of Princess Diana's ancestors, Archibald Campbell, who was the 9th Earl of Argyll, from Scotland. Famous Archies include red-haired cartoon character Archie Andrews from the Archie comics franchise in America. He is part of the Archie gang, along with a host of characters - including Moose Mason, Betty Cooper and Jughead Jones - who have been on American news stands for years. Archie Andrews is known as America's typical teenager and he and his friends have been updated for a modern audience with Riverdale, a Netflix American teenage drama series. Archie Mitchell was a villain in the BBC soap EastEnders, Lawrenece Olivier played Archie Rice in The Entertainer, and another famous Archie is jazz saxophonist Archie Shepp, as well as NFL quarterback Archie Manning. Other famous Archies include Scottish footballing hero Archie Gemmill, ventriloquist dummy Archie Andrews and Archie Leach, the real name of the Hollywood star Cary Grant. Two famous Archies in the form of Scottish football hero Archie Gemmill (left) and Archie Leach, the real name of Cary Grant Famous Archies include red-haired cartoon character Archie Andrews (pictured left) from the Archie comics franchise in America, as well as jazz saxophonist Archie Shepp (pictured right) Archie Mitchell (pictured left) was a villain in the BBC soap EastEnders and Lawrenece Olivier (pictured right) played Archie Rice in The Entertainer Harrison, meanwhile, has largely been made popular thanks to Star Wars actor Harrison Ford. Mark Hamill, who is known for playing Luke Skywalker in the science fiction movies, joked about his 'regret' after the baby was given Harrison as a middle name. He shared a photo of himself talking to Harry and Prince William along with the caption: 'Here's me with William and Harry pitching the idea of naming any future royal baby after their favourite Star Wars actor. 'Happy they chose Archie HARRISON Mountbatten-Windsor but regret not being more specific. Should have pitched favourite Star Wars actor WHO PLAYED LUKE.' The Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not disclose why they had chosen the informal names but Archie is becoming increasingly popular in Britain. It was among the top 20 most common boy's names in 2017, according to the Office for National Statistics. Mark Hamill, who is known for playing Luke Skywalker in the science fiction movies, joked about his 'regret' after the baby was given Harrison as a middle name UK royal names are normally chosen from a relatively restricted pool of those used by past kings and queens. But reports previously emerged that Meghan and Harry were considering an unusual name that was relevant to both Britain and the US. A baby name expert said the most modern Royal couple have chosen a fresh, fun and very modern name that both reflects their new family makeup. SJ Ljungstrom from ChannelMum.com said: Although both names are unusual in Royal circles... Archie is a wonderful choice as it encapsulates pomp and tradition while having all the cheeky chappie qualities of Harry himself. Harrison also perfectly encapsulates the American and wider Commonwealth trend for using surnames as firstnames, she added. The names work as they are noble and regal but also have the warm and caring common touch, just like the couple themselves. It is not the first time that a British royal baby has been given a less traditional name, with the moniker given to the Queen's first granddaughter - Zara Phillips - surprising the nation. The couple shared a photograph to Instagram today revealing the baby boy's full name One lucky punter won more than 18,000 after she guessed the newest member of the Royal Family would be given the name Archie. The woman, who has not been named, put 120 on the moniker at 150/1 after Baby Sussex was born on her grandson Archies birthday, according to bookmakers.tv. She scooped up 18,120 and told the website she planned to put her winnings aside for her grandson. Bookmakers said the name was one of the biggest surprises in royal betting history, with Ladbrokes recording just 60 bets on Archie, while Coral said the name drew just a handful of punters. Alex Apati, from Ladbrokes, estimated that more than 1 million will be won on all royal baby markets, which also included gender and due date. A spokesman from Coral said: We only took a handful of bets on Archie so this has to go down as one of the biggest surprises in royal betting history, as it was a 100/1 outsider before the name was revealed. Royal fan Terry Hutt, left, poses with Rupert Adams from the British bookmaker William Hill showing a list for the odds on names for the baby son of Prince Harry and Meghan Prince Harry and Meghan Markle welcomed their first child together this week. Their son was born in the early hours of Monday morning and weighed 7lbs 3oz The son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not have a royal title like his cousins, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's children, but will be known simply as Master Archie. In a statement from Buckingham Palace, the royal family announced: 'The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are delighted to announce that they have named their son Archie Harrison. 'The baby will be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.' The surname, used by some members of the royal family, was created to recognise the lineage of both Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex presented their newborn son to the world earlier today, with Meghan declaring: 'It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy.' Speaking in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle as her husband held their two-day-old child, Meghan added: 'He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm.' The Duchess of Sussex gave birth to Archie on Monday. Kate and William took five days to announce the name of Prince Louis last year. While Princess Charlotte and Prince George's names were announced two days after the birth. The new parents shared the news on Instagram, post pictured, and thanked 'members of the public for their shared excitement and support' Prince Harry's full name is Henry Charles Albert David. After his birth, his parents, Prince Charles and Princess Diana announced their second son's name would officially be Prince Henry Charles Albert David, but that he would be known as to his family and friends as Harry. On the birth of Prince Louis last year, many were quick to surmise the historical significance behind his name. The name Louis was a shock to many royal spectators as it is often associated with the French monarchy, with the last King of France, Louis XVI ruling from 1774 until 1791. Connections were also made to the Mountbatten family of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Phillip. Louis is also Prince Williams third middle name. Speaking from Windsor this week, a visibly-excited new dad Prince Harry (pictured) shared his immense pride as he joked of getting just two hours' sleep This is while, Kate Middleton and Prince William decided on naming their only daughter as Charlotte. Her full name is Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana. It is clear that her first middle name 'Elizabeth' is a nod to the current Queen, with Diana being a nod to William's late mother. Her first name however, could be seen as the feminine version of Prince Charles, however it is also the middle name of her mother's sister, Pippa Middleton. Princess Charlotte's eldest brother, Prince George is said to be named after Queen Elizabeth's father, King George VI. His middle names are Alexander and Louis. The former is the male version of Her Majesty's middle name, Alexandra, with the latter being in honour of Louis Mountbatten, Prince Phillip's uncle. A mother was left puzzled after she ordered a number 5 candle for her daughter's birthday cake, only for supermarket chain Tesco to switch it with two 2s and a 1 after running out. Sheree Scanlon had been organising a party for her daughter Charlotte's fifth birthday and could barely believe her eyes when her Tesco order arrived. Instead of replacing the number five candle with singular candles, the delivery driver turned up with the mathematical equivalent. Sheree, 45, took to Tesco's Facebook page to complain about the blunder, and said she had decided against using the alternatives provided. Sheree (right) with her daughter Charlotte (left) said she couldn't believe her eyes when her Tesco order arrived Sheree had ordered birthday candles for her daughter's birthday and was shocked when she got the mathematical value She said: 'Absolute disbelief at the substitution from Tesco for a number 5 birthday candle. 2, 2 and 1 is not quite the same.' Sheree, from Coventry had ordered a 1 'Bake with Love Sparkly Candle' in the number five, in order to decorate her daughter's cake. She decided against using the 'alternatives' provided by Tesco, which appeared to suggest her daughter was having her 221nd birthday. The teaching assistant's post has left many commenters in stitches. Laura Rees said: 'Howling.' Sheree had been organising a party for her daughter Charlotte (above) and had not received the number five candle (right) that she had ordered Joanne Griffiths added: 'I'm creased.' Lorraine Martin wrote: 'It will help your child to add up his/her age.' Jack Penry said: 'That sub.' Tesco's social media team responded Sheree's post saying: 'Thanks for getting in touch. 'That's not a great substitute at all, so I'm sorry about that. Can you please message me privately with confirmation of your full name, post code and email address? Also, can I ask if you handed these candles back with the driver for a refund?' Speaking on the issue, Sheree said she thought it was a ridiculous situation. 'I did laugh, but in absolute shock! I called Tesco to ask if it was a computer that made the substitution but it wasn't! I sent the candles back in disbelief!' She added: 'My thoughts are just how ridiculous it was. I called Tesco straight away as I could not believe a human could think that's a suitable alternative. 'Friends have said surely a four and one would have been cheaper! Or five ones would have made more sense.' Sheree ended up buying a set of 'normal' candles from B&M ahead of Charlotte's birthday yesterday. It is the incredible tale of how the body of a dead tramp found floating in the sea with a bundle of fake documents ended up saving the lives of 40,000 soldiers. Now, the full story of Operation Mincemeat, one the ingenious espionage schemes which helped the Allies win the Second World War, is to get the full Hollywood treatment. Colin Firth will play intelligence mastermind Ewan Montagu and the new film will be directed by Oscar-nominated British director John Madden, with a screenplay by Emmy-nominated Michelle Ashford. Producers say Firth has the perfect 'substance, swagger and sensitivity' to play spymaster Montagu. Ewan Montagu (left), the mastermind behind Second World War escapade Operation Mincemeat, is to be played by Colin Firth in a forthcoming film The operation, in which the body was dropped near Spain, fooled the Axis into thinking the Allies would invade the Peloponnese rather than Sicily, where the attack was launched Madden said of the new film: 'In the context of World War II narratives, the story of Operation Mincemeat is unique a bizarre and seductive cinematic blend of high-level espionage and ingenious fiction, where the stakes could hardly be higher.' Operation Mincemeat was dreamed up by British spymasters, including James Bond writer Ian Fleming, as the Allies prepared to invade southern Italy in 1943, at the height of World War Two. The operation saw the corpse of a tramp, Glyndwr Michael, dressed as an officer and dropped in the sea to fool Hitler into thinking the Allies would invade Greece Attacking the Axis on the often steep shorelines of Italy could have quickly become a massacre, so Britain's spies came up with a plan to make Hitler think the Allies would go for Greece instead. They took the body a Welsh tramp and made him look like a high-ranking Royal Marines Officer, who they gave the fictional identity of Captain William Martin. They then created a bundle of official-looking fake 'top secret' documents, which suggested the Allies were to invade Greece. The body and a briefcase filled with the documents were then dropped by submarine in the sea off of Spain, to make it look like he had died in an accident. When the body and the briefcase were picked up by the Nazis, Hitler fell for it 'hook, line and sinker' and moved 90,000 troops to other posted away from southern Italy, meaning the Allies faced a smaller opposition force when it landed in Sicily. The operation was later immortalised in the 1956 film 'The Man Who Never Was', as well as many TV documentaries. But the full audacity of the plan will now be brought to life for a new generation with the Colin Firth film, which is based on a 2010 book by spy historian Ben Macintyre. A scene from The Man Who Never Was, the 1956 film based on Operation Mincemeat Firth's character Montagu was one of the architects of the plan. He died in 1985, after being granted a deathbed request by Margaret Thatcher to read the official verdict of the operation. Talking about the new film, Madden added: 'Michelle Ashford's script fuses multiple strands and moods: tense, romantic, thrilling, unexpectedly funny, and endlessly surprising. 'It tells a richly human story of the soldiers we seldom see, who fight a different kind of war in shadows and deception, haunted by the knowledge that certainty and guarantee of success are nowhere to be found.' The film is a See-Saw Films and Cohen Media Group production, being produced by Charles S. Cohen, Iain Canning, Emile Sherman and Kris Thykier. It will launch at the Cannes film festival. The new film will be directed by Oscar-nominated British director John Madden (left), with a screenplay by Emmy-nominated Michelle Ashford (right) The hero Russian air steward who died trying to save passengers from the Moscow inferno sent a tragic final message to his girlfriend saying: 'Loving you'. Moments before the crash Maxim Moiseev tried to reassure his girlfriend, Ksenia Obraztsova, that 'all is okay with me'. But she was not convinced, feeling perturbed by the fact he had a phone connection during a flight and searching desperately for information. As the plane went down at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport he sent his love and did not see her final reply. The latest revelation comes as Russian investigators consider pilot error as a possible cause of the Superjet inferno, in which Moiseev and 40 others died. Hero Russian air steward Maxim Moiseev (pictured left) tried to reassure his girlfriend, Ksenia Obraztsova (right) and sent a message saying 'loving you' as the plane went down Reports in Russia said Moiseev had tried to force a rear door open to help passengers escape the erupting fire. Tragic last messages between hero steward and his girlfriend Maxim 'We are flying to Sheremetyevo' Maxim 'All is okay with me, don't worry' Ksenia 'Did you turn around? Where are you flying? Why do you have network access? Give me the flight number' Maxim 'Loving you' Ksenia 'What happened. 1492. I found it (the flight number)' Advertisement His girlfriend, believed to be in her 20s, is now reported to be with Moiseev's parents. It has since been speculated that Moiseev will be honoured posthumously by Russian President Vladimir Putin for his bravery. Moiseev was flying to his home city of Murmansk when the plane aborted the flight and made an emergency landing. He had studied at a school in Monino, near Moscow - where a minute's silence was held for him yesterday - and hoped later to train as a pilot. Moiseev was the only one of the five flight crew members who did not survive the crash-landing. Another stewardess, Tatyana Kasatkina, 34, had kicked open an exit door and grabbed passengers by their collars to push them to safety. Footage emerged yesterday showing how cabin crew watched the blaze in horror after escaping the burning plane, knowing there were passengers still inside. Steward Maxim Moiseev (left and right) was the only crew member killed during the blaze while trying to save people from the rear of the aircraft Two stewardesses in red Aeroflot uniforms are seen staring in disbelief on the tarmac as smoke and flames pour from the Superjet plane. One of them appears to be Tatiana Kasatkina, the flight attendant hailed as a hero for kicking open a door and throwing passengers out to safety. The two women try to comfort struggling passengers - who are seen collapsing amid the smoke - but are forced to abandon those still trapped inside the inferno. Russian investigators are still examining why the plane, which had to turn back to Moscow after a lightning strike took out its communications, went down in flames. A U.S. Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said airline planes get hit about once a year on average. Tatyana Kasatkina, 34, another stewardess on board the Aeroflot plane , has told how she kicked open the door and pushed passengers out by grabbing their collars Survivors described how people panicked as the plane came in to land trailing thick smoke and flames, rushing to the escape exits at the front of the aircraft A report of a conversation between the pilot and air traffic control revealed that the pilot remained calm as he requested an emergency landing and did not assess the situation as critical. One line of inquiry is whether pilot error could have caused the crash. Sources told Russian media that the Aeroflot pilots made a number of errors including flying into a thunderstorm and landing with a full tank of fuel. However, it has also been suggested that the pilots may have thought it too dangerous to dump fuel over the city of Moscow. Pilot Denis Evdokimov has insisted he followed the correct procedures for landing with excess weight and one aviation expert has hailed his handling of the plane. Investigators are now looking into the cause of the crash, which happened shortly after the plane took off from Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport headed for Murmansk Disaster: A huge fireball erupts from the Superjet plane after it crash landed in Moscow Investigators are still examining the black boxes from the plane and have so far given no official reason for the crash. One survivor sparked fury after he walked from the airport with a backpack he had rescued from the burning plane. Dmitry Khlebushkin demanded a refund and complained about his treatment by Aeroflot staff as he left Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport on Sunday. The 'overweight' Russian has become a focal point of anger after several passengers were seen retrieving luggage while others tried to flee. 'I do not know what to say about people who ran out with bags. God is their judge,' survivor Mikhail Savchenko wrote on Facebook. Recovery: Emergency workers at the scene of the crash yesterday after passengers scrambled to evacuate the jet following its emergency landing in Moscow on Sunday The Flightradar24 tracking service showed that the stricken made two circles around Moscow in what may have been a last-ditch attempt to lose fuel Crunch cross-party talks seeking a deal to break the Brexit deadlock and allow the UK to leave the EU appear to be closed to stalling after Labour claimed they were 'a million miles away' from achieving an agreement. Senior Government ministers and top figures from Jeremy Corbyn's team will meet this afternoon for the latest round of discussions in Whitehall with expectations low that they will achieve anything imminently. Theresa May has sparked widespread fury among her own backbenchers after appearing to pave the way for doing a deal on a temporary customs union to run until the next General Election. But Labour sources have suggested that the two parties remain some way apart, the Times reported. After talks on Tuesday, shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey confirmed negotiations on a new Brexit deal that could win a parliamentary majority have still to bear fruit. Senior Labour ministers went to Whitehall for talks with the Government yesterday. Talks will continue today Shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey (front right) said: 'We haven't had any movement or agreement on a customs union' 'Nothing has been agreed yet,' she said after a three-hour meeting, which she labelled 'very robust'. But Ms Long-Bailey said there had been no movement towards a customs union, temporary or otherwise, and would only say another referendum was 'one of many options'. She said: 'We haven't had any movement or agreement on a customs union, certainly not today, but we will see what the rest of the week holds. 'Our policy position has not changed since the last Labour conference, where a public vote was one of many options on the table, certainly to avoid a Tory deal, a bad Tory Brexit or a no-deal situation. 'Certainly we've been exploring the issue of a confirmatory vote in these discussions, but as yet nothing has been agreed.' It came amid widespread anger in Conservative ranks after the Prime Minister's deputy David Lidington admitted yesterday that the UK would have to take part in the May 23 vote - with fears they face a drubbing from Nigel Farage's Brexit party. Speaking as he went in to talks with Labour figures including Ms Long-Bailey and shadow chancellor John McDonnell, Mr Lidington said said that despite weeks of gruelling cross-party talks there was now not enough time to get Brexit done and dusted before they take place on May 23. Pressure on both sides to make progress was heightened by the parties' poor performance in last week's local elections, which both Conservative and Labour leaderships interpreted as a message from voters to get on with delivering Brexit. The talks have continually been described as Constructive and while it is understood there has been agreement in some areas, in others they remain some distance apart. Last week it was suggested that if talks had not achived anything by the end of this week, the Government might pull out and seek a different way to get a Brexit deal done. A Downing Street spokesman confirmed more talks were scheduled for Wednesday. He said: 'The teams have agreed to meet again for follow-up talks .... recognising the need to resolve the current Brexit deadlock in Parliament.' Quadi Azzan, pictured outside Manchester Magistrates' Court, was found guilty of sexually assaulting a nurse who was treating him for the effects of cannabis A nurse was sexually assaulted by a patient as she was treating him in hospital for the effects of eating a cupcake laced with cannabis. The healthcare professional was conducting a heart test upon university undergraduate Quadi Azzan when he suddenly groped and squeezed her breast. Azzan then laughed at the nurse as she moved his hand away and told him to stop whilst his girlfriend looked on in silence from his bedside. The healthcare worker was eventually forced to flee the cubicle to fetch a colleague before police were called and later arrested the student at his home. At Manchester magistrates court Azzan, 28, who studies construction and site management at Salford University in Greater Manchester, was facing jail after he was found guilty of sexual assault. The 7.30am incident occurred on December 16 last year after mature student Azzan from Salford was admitted to Salford Royal hospital having collapsed after eating cannabis cakes supplied by a college friend. The nurse told the hearing: 'I did a blood test and sorted his breakfast and he was there with his girlfriend. 'He was absolutely fine the first few times of me going in, he was admitted by the night staff I got there and he was alright, he responded me straight away, he was alert and orientated as to what time it was and where he was. 'He was spitting a little bit when he first spoke as if he was drunk and slurring his words, I saw him three times but it was on the fourth time this happened. It was myself and another nurse, the nurse is quite new so it was left to me I picked up the next job which was the heart trace just to make sure that his cannabis misuse hadn't had a cardiac effect upon him. 'He had his eyes closed at first laid on the trolley with both hands down his trousers, I was trying to wake him saying his name and he didn't answer me so I did the painful stimuli on his shoulder. I told him that I was going to do the ECG and asked if it was ok but then he said: "Ask me a million times." I thought he was just being cheeky. Azzan, pictured, who is a mature student at the University of Salford, grabbed the nurse's breast. He claims he was under the influence of cannabis at the time 'I told him to take his hands out from down there because it isn't appropriate but then he let me do the ECG. He then lifted his top up with his arm and I started to put the stickers on, but as I went to put the sixth one on I leaned over and he felt across my breast. He then moved his arm and did a little squeeze and I told him it wasn't appropriate and to stop, there was no need to touch me. 'I told him to get off me and I said it was inappropriate but he didn't move his hand at first so I physically moved his hands, my words were: "It is completely inappropriate." He laughed at first but he didn't say anything. 'He was conscious enough to laugh at me and conscious enough to look at his girlfriend who was sat in the room. I just ran out of the room I shouted for one of the nurses that was in charge of the department that day. He was fully alert and was like smirking when he lifted his top up and he laughed at me after the incident. 'The whole think was inappropriate and he was laughing. I just want to go in and do my job and leave. He knew what he was doing.' The attack happened inside the Salford Royal Infirmary, pictured, on December 16, last Azzan denied wrongdoing claiming he could not recall fully the incident in hospital and said he may have touched the nurse's breast by 'accident' due to the fact he was still under the influence of cannabis. He said he had earlier bought the cupcakes as a peace offering to his girlfriend because had stood her up at a photoshoot they were due to attend together. Azzan told the hearing: 'I had been round to my friends house and one of his other friends had some cupcakes and he said there was "a bit of weed in it" but it is fine. I wanted to give them to my girlfriend, she likes cupcakes and I saw them eating them so I said: "do you mind if I take some for my girlfriend?" and I said "I'll give you a fiver" so he gave me the cupcakes. 'I went home and I ate the first one and a few moments later I started feeling indigestion, at around 11pm. I just felt like something was making me laugh it didn't make any sense. 'As soon as I lay down in bed that is when I felt the effects I felt like something was making me laugh and indigestion. I was thinking what was going on so I didn't know what was happening it was scary I don't recall much of what happened after that the only thing I recall is paramedics saying "you will be ok we'll take you to hospital". 'I remember seeing my girlfriend's face and some other faces which I didn't recognise and I remember feeling a sharp pain I was just trying to speak to my girlfriend I was asking questions but I don't think anyone understood - where am I? What is happening? 'All I recall was the pain I felt the only thing I felt was a pain on my shoulder I think I said don't touch me. 'I remember hearing some words and it was constantly repeating itself, the words felt like it was constantly happening I just wanted it to stop I said: "You have asked me a million times." I felt it was really scary I was so terrified and I thought I was going to die. 'I remember a flash of someone holding my hand and I felt relieved when I woke up I saw my hand on the nurse and then I went unconscious again. When I felt the hand I felt relaxed it made me realise I'm still alive. 'The only thing I know is my hand was on her breast when I felt someone hold my hand, it was an accident and I didn't mean to do it. I didn't know I was doing it I just felt relieved and I just let go. 'I think the next time I opened my eyes I was getting up and my girlfriend was holding my hand I didn't know much after that the next thing I know is the police came and they handcuffed me. 'I have tried cannabis once before it didn't really do anything and I was wondering why people use it, I just wanted something to show my girlfriend I was sorry, I didn't think it would have an effect on me. I thought if she accepts my cake she forgives me I just wanted her to forgive me, I only ate one to prove to my girlfriend it was ok I didn't know what the full effects of cannabis were.' Prosecutor, Matthew Siddall told JPs: 'The reality of this case is the defendant was in hospital treated by the nurse, he put his hand on her chest laughing and had to have it physically removed. The evidence is that he was in control and she distinctly recalls that he was responsive, her evidence was credible she didn't she didn't exaggerate anything and she wasn't throwing mud at him. 'But at no point during the course of several hours did he display even the slightest sign of not being able to control himself. These aren't the actions of a man who is out of control, these are the actions of a man who finds her rebuffs of him funny. 'Don't confuse the reality of cannabis with what he was actually doing and that was laughing at her. His version of events didn't make any sense.' JPs said there was an 'element of selective recollection' to Azzan's evidence. He will be sentenced on May 17. A Chinese man's creative gift-giving attempt has led him to be stuck in a building's ventilation shaft hundreds of feet above the ground. The man had hoped to send presents to a friend 'like Father Christmas', but ended up having to scream for help while dangling down the tiny chute 27 storeys up. Firefighters rescued the unnamed man after neighbours heard him shouting and called the police on Saturday in eastern China's Shandong Province. Firefighters join forces to pull up the man who is stuck in a ventilation shaft in Linyi, China Rescuers manage to save him after throwing a rope to him and provided him with a harness The unfortunate gift-giver was found clinging to his life at about two metres (6.6 feet) below the rooftop in a residential building in the city of Linyi, according to Linyi Fire Brigade. He was seen desperately holding onto a thin red rope with nothing to support his feet underneath, firefighters said in an online statement. Rescuers threw a rope to the man and provided him with a harness. The man said he had gone down the shaft from the rooftop but failed to climb back up He claimed that he wanted to send the gifts down the chute because his friend wasn't home They also wrapped the edge of the shaft with clothing to prevent potential secondary injuries on the man. Four firefighters then joined forces to pull the man up using the rope, as footage shows. He was freed about 10 minutes later. The man confessed that he had come to give some gifts, which included wine and cigarettes, to a friend, but the friend wasn't home. The man said he was trying to send gifts like Santa Claus before getting stuck 27th storeys up Therefore, he thought of the idea of sending the presents to his friend's home down the chimney 'like Santa Claus'. He said he had managed to descend the ventilation shaft and left the goods there, but when he wanted to climb back up to the rooftop he realised he couldn't. He thanked the firefighters for saving him and expressed regret for his behaviour. Advertisement FDNY investigators believe that a mother-of-four from Harlem had left a stove burner on and fell asleep, causing a massive fire in her apartment the claimed the lives of her family overnight, including her young children. Firefighters, who were called at around 1.40am, moved aggressively into the flames and thick smoke and found a man and a woman, as well as two girls and two boys ages 3 to 11, in two rear bedrooms of the fifth-floor apartment, according to Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro. The victims were pronounced dead by EMTs at the scene. They were identified Wednesday morning as 45-year-old Andrea Pollidore, her four children, 11-year-old Nakiyra, 8-year-old Andre, 6-year-old Brooklyn, and 4-year-old Ellijah, and her 33-year-old step-brother Mac Abdularaulph. Investigators suspect that Pollidore, who had survived two house fires in the past, had disconnected the smoke alarm in her apartment. Officials said the management of the building had battery-powered smoke detectors installed in every unit in 2017 and had them tested as recently as January 2019, according to the head of the New York City Housing Authority, Kathryn Garcia. Scroll down for video A massive fire tore through a fifth-floor unit at the Frederick E. Samuel Houses at the corner of Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard and West 142th Street, killing a family of six A view of the apartment building with black soot coating the facade at the fifth-floor level, where four children and two adults lost their lives The victims were identified as Andrea Pollidore, 45 (pictured left) and her four children (one of her sons pictured right), as well as her step-brother The apartment building was evacuated overnight following the deadly fire that claimed six lives Members of FDNY Fire Marshal investigate the scene where a mother and her children were killed in a fire overnight It is suspected that a stove burner left on overnight sparked the blaze, but FDNY is still investigating 'Its horrible to look at, and as a father just thinking ... that yesterday evening four children went to bed and theyre gone now is very, very painful,' Mayor Bill de Blasio said. This was not the first time that Pollidore and her family were touched by tragedy. In 2000, she suffered severe burns in another house fire, PIX11 reported. Then in 2016, her Brooklyn home went up in flames, forcing her to moved into the NYCHA building in Harlem. In March 2007, Pollidore's 21-year-old brother, Kristen McKenzie, was shot and killed by an off-duty police officer during an armed scuffle at a nightclub in Brooklyn, reported the New York Times at the time. Television reports showed neighbors standing in a circle and praying outside the Frederick E. Samuel Houses at the corner of Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard and West 142th Street. 'As the fire was burning I was hearing one of the little girls screaming,' fourth-floor resident Eric Allen told the New York Post. 'They were beautiful kids.' Abdul Salaam, 25, told the Post that he saw the flames from the street and called 911. 'I heard glass breaking, kids yelling,' said Salaam. 'They were clearly in fear for their lives.' One resident said that he and his 75-year-old mother, who live on the fifth floor, fled down a fire escape. 'There was so much smoke you couldn't even see,' Geraldo Morales told the Post. 'The smoke - I got asthma - so it was like I was getting suffocated.' Neighbor Cathy Black told ABC 7 NY Pollidore's four children were very respectful and that she had a special bond with her 11-year-old, Nakiyra, who she said brought her flowers for Mother's Day on Friday and invited the woman to her upcoming graduation at school. Several people suffered minor injuries when the building was being evacuated. Debris from the Frederick E. Samuel Houses is pictured littering the street afer the deadly overnight fire New York City police stand near a stuffed animal left by a child in front of the fire-damaged building in Harlem Wednesday Building resident Patricia Flowers, who was evaluated for smoke inhalation, is pictured wrapped in an American Red Cross blanket against the morning chill following the fire Leon Black, a resident of the scorched building, visits the scene Wednesday Several people suffered minor injuries when the building was being evacuated. Pictured: women embracing outside the damaged building The building was equipped with smoke alarms, which were last tested in January 2019 It took about 100 firefighters an hour to put out the flames. The exact cause of the fire is under investigation, but officials do not believe foul play was involved. This marks the deadliest fire in New York City since December 2017, when a toddler playing with a stove sparked a blaze in The Bronx that killed 13 people. A grieving mother monkey is seen refusing to leave the lifeless body of her baby who died just two days after birth at a zoo in north-west China. The heart-wrenching moment was filmed at the Xiangyang Zoo in Hubei province on Monday, showing the distraught mother sitting in an enclosure with the infant draped in her arms. The mother tries to wake her baby up by stroking its forehead and kissing its cheeks, but to no avail. A grieving mother monkey is seen refusing to leave the lifeless body of her baby who died just two days after birth at a zoo in Xiangyang, north-west China's Hubei province The mother tries to wake her baby up by stroking its forehead and kissing it, but to no avail Another clips shows the mother resting the infant on the ground but stays close by watching over it and looks into the distance with a sad expression. Keepers told Xiangyang Television that the three-year-old monkey was a first-time mother and gave birth to her baby on May 4. However, the baby monkey wasn't in good health and the mother refused to let keepers approach it, caretaker Liang Xinkuan said. Two days later, the infant died due to lack of nutrition. Keepers told Xiangyang Television that the three-year-old monkey was a first-time mother and gave birth to her baby on May 4 However, the baby monkey wasn't in good health and the mother refused to let keepers approach it, caretaker Liang Xinkuan said Another clips shows the mother resting the infant on the ground but stays close by watching over it and looks into the distance with a sad expression 'Since then, the mother has been cradling her dead offspring and refusing to let go,' manager Geng Jianqiao said. Whenever keepers tried to approach her, she would hold her baby even more tightly, the report said. Net users, many of them animal lovers, were saddened by the incident while others believed the zoo should be responsible for the tragedy. 'This is the power of a mother's love,' one person commented on Chinese microblogging site Weibo. Whenever keepers tried to approach her, she would hold her baby even more tightly Net users, many of them animal lovers, were saddened by the incident while others believed the zoo should be responsible for the tragedy 'As a new mother myself, I cried watching them,' another said. 'Animals are just as sensitive as us humans, if not more,' one user commented. 'How come the zoo didn't take proper care of the baby monkey after it was born?' one user questioned. 'They should have taken better care of the pregnant monkey. The zoo has done a poor job in managing the incident,' another said. Two British men have admitted trafficking 29 Vietnamese people after police stopped a vehicle where the foreign nationals had been crammed into the back. Frank Walling, 72, and Glen Bennett, 55, both from Lancashire pleaded guilty to two charges under the Modern Slavery and Immigration Acts. The pair were arrested after they were stopped by officers on the M5 near, Devon, just after 9am on Friday, April 12, with the foreign nationals onboard. It then emerged that it was the same group who had been seen a few hours earlier getting off a boat in Cornwall, just after 7am. A massive police investigation was launched following the finding, officers are pictured above at the port of Newlyn, Cornwall Police in Newlyn had been deployed to the port last month after the two men had been found transporting the foreign nationals A massive police operation descended on the fishing port as the boat was boarded and a hunt began for the missing group. Devon and Cornwall Police soon confirmed the link between the two incidents. Police subsequently arrested and charged Walling and Bennett, both from Lancashire, in connection to the incident. The two men were jointly charged with arranging the travel of a woman with a view to her being exploited, contrary to the Modern Slavery Act. They were also charged with skippering a yacht carrying 29 Vietnamese nationals in breach of the Immigration Act. This picture shows police alongside a boat of interest at Newlyn harbour where the fishing port had been full of police The case was sent to Truro Crown Court, where they subsequently appeared on Tuesday, May 7, and pleaded guilty to the charges. The pair were informed by Judge Robert Linford that they will be sentenced at Truro Crown Court on October 11. They have been remanded in custody and the pair will reappear at Truro Crown Court for sentencing at a later date. Witnesses at the scene in April said the town had been put in lock down following the incident. The pair will reappear at Truro Crown Court (pictured above) for sentencing at a later date Witness Clive Oxley said: 'There were 32 of them who ran aboard by the jetty, clambered over the fences and ran off. 'The police have stopped all fishing boats going out to sea. There was one dinghy that went back out to sea with about six people on it.' Mr Oxley added: 'Everyone here is really shocked. There's police everywhere and people in high-vis jackets and they have shut the whole of the front of the harbour. 'There's armed police and armed response vehicles.' In a lifetime in media relations, it was the biggest announcement of her Royal career. But with the eyes of the world focused on the most anticipated royal birth in years, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's new PR guru failed to inform media outlets worldwide what was going on - because emails failed to send. That is the excuse for Monday's bizarre miscommunications from the team run by Sara Latham, the Anglo-American former Clinton aide appointed by Harry and Meghan in March to run their media operation. But a 'profuse' apology from the Palace yesterday over emails sent at 1pm which didn't arrive until 2pm hardly explains why the world was told Meghan had gone into labour at lunchtime, when in fact she'd given birth before dawn. Prince Harry revealed shortly after 2pm that his wife had given birth to a healthy baby boy on Monday morning Sara Latham, 48, was appointed to run the Sussexes' press operation in March The delays and faults meant the ITV lunchtime bulletin missed the news, and left veteran BBC royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell mumbling into incoherence during a live two-way on Monday evening. Yesterday Kensington Palace blamed 'technical difficulties on site at Windsor' for some media outlets receiving statements on time, others late, and some not at all. But even that goes no way to explaining why, if the Duchess gave birthday in a London hospital at 5.26am, the press - who presumed her to be heavily pregnant in Frogmore Cottage - were told only that she had 'gone into labour' at lunchtime. What we now know is that Meghan was spirited away from Frogmore on Sunday night, accompanied by her husband, her mother, and her royal protection officers. The team headed to Portland Hospital in London, where Victoria Beckham gave birth and where a room in the birthing wing can cost up to 15,000. At 5.26am, Meghan gave birth to a healthy baby boy weighing 7lbs 3oz - the Queen's eighth great-grandchild, and the seven-in-line to the throne. A sign was placed outside the Prince Harry pub in central Windsor with the message 'It's a boy' as the establishment also celebrated with balloons - not not until long after the birth happened The announcement was also made from Buckingham Palace in a statement which included a long list of members of the Royal Family who were 'delighted' at the news and said Meghan's mother Doria was 'overjoyed' - her father Thomas was conspicuously absent from those named A man dressed as a town crier outside Windsor Castle proclaimed news of the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's baby once the world was told At around 4pm members of staff set up an official notice on an easel at the gates of Buckingham Palace in London Less formally, the BT Tower in London broadcast a congratulatory message across the capital after the birth was announced - long after it had taken place A Right Royal Timeline: What happened, and when we were told Sunday night: Meghan and her mother Doria are driven in secrecy to London's Portland hospital accompanied by royal protection officers Monday, 5.26am: Meghan gives birth 6.30am: Senior members of the Royal family are informed 1pm to 2pm: Palace aides try to send emails to alert the media that Meghan had 'gone into labour' - despite the fact the baby had been born six hours previously. But most outlets do not receive the emails. 1.30pm: Most of the media (and the rest of the world) still know nothing, but a spokesman for the Sussexes calls Sky News to arrange coverage of Harry's statement. 1.45pm: Sky News exclusively reports Meghan is in labour. Sky was randomly selected as the pool broadcaster and distributed the footage as soon as it went to air, but it was seven minutes before it arrived with the BBC, and too late for ITV to cover in their 1.45pm lunchtime news bulletin. 2.03pm: The Palace's email statement finally sends successfully to all outlets. 2.15pm: Harry pre-records his charmingly gleeful statement about the couple's to-die-for son. 2.37pm: The Sussexes' Instagram account posts a picture saying 'It's a Boy', and the palace issues a press release announcing the birth 2.40pm: Harry's statement is broadcast Tuesday, 12.28pm: Palace PR officials issue apology over the day's timings and announcements. But they still won't confirm where the baby was born, or explain why the world was told the Duchess was in labour when she'd already given birth. Advertisement Meanwhile, the world new nothing of this and assumed she was still in Windsor, possibly on the verge of being induced with her baby more than a week overdue. It was not until hours later, at 1pm, that the Sussexes new communications chief Sara Latham arranged for emails to be sent to news outlets. It may not be a coincidence that the Anglo-American Kensington Palace operation timed the announcement to arrive at 8am Eastern Standard Time, in the middle of the American morning news shows. But the emails didn't send. Ms Latham, 48, later explained there had been a 'colossal tech failure' which meant the email informing the press did not reach most inboxes until more than an hour after it was sent. She said: 'We sent emails which showed as sent at 1327, 1349, 1403,' according to The Telegraph. However in the meantime, Sky News (which had been picked at random to be the 'pool' broadcaster which would syndicate its footage to all networks) had received the crucial call from the Palace to set up the Prince Harry announcement. So at 1.45pm, which most outlets still in the dark, the Murdoch channel broke the news to the world that Meghan was 'in labour'. Newsrooms around the world scrambled to catch up. To make matters even more confusing, Buckingham Palace's press office was still denying the baby had been born, according to a BBC source quoted in the Sun. Less than an hour later, with journalists' and royal watchers' heads still spinning, Harry and Meghan's Instagram account posted a picture saying 'it's a boy'. Yesterday Kensington Palace apologised 'profusely' for the technical glitch on which they blamed arrival of the 1pm emails, and for the 'inconvenience it caused' But the apology leaves a number of questions unanswered. The birth was officially announced on the Instagram page of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at 2.37pm, just a short nine hours after it happened It might be understandable that the son of Princess Diana might want to keep the world's media away from speculating about the health of his wife and son through the course of her labour. But why, if the duchess had a healthy baby at 5.26am, was the world kept completely in the dark for more than eight hours? And why was it announced first that she had gone into labour, when in fact the baby had been born? Why if Harry's announcement had been planned all along - as was later made clear - was the media not briefed in advance what it could expect, rather than a single phonecall to a single broadcaster? And why, contrary to traditional and protocol, have the Sussexes insisted on keeping secret the names of the medical team who helped with the birth and the location of the delivery - when it will be legally recorded on the birth certificate anyway? She has worked as an aide to the Obamas, the Clintons, and Tony Blair, but Sara Latham may find the questions she faces in the coming days the most challenging of her career. How Meghan and Harrys new right-hand woman has spun for Left-wing royalty: New adviser has political pedigree after working for Tony Blair, the Obamas and the Clintons by Tom Leonard in New York for The Daily Mail, March 16 2019 Public relations is not a job for the faint-hearted, but even seasoned practitioners of the spin-doctoring arts might hesitate to take on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The royal couple are, after all, taking a step into the unknown as they and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge divide their respective households. And Harry and Meghans recent public utterances suggest they have a radically different vision of their future to the royal tradition. Those who foresaw Meghan forging a more star-studded, international and high-profile role for her and her husband than merely opening libraries and handing out bravery awards may be starting to think they are right. For the Sussexes have now recruited a high-powered and impeccably well-connected communications director who has worked not only for Bill and Hillary Clinton but also Tony Blair. Like the Duchess, Sara Latham is an American who has acquired dual US-UK citizenship. She also enjoys a reputation as a wily political operator with deep roots in the Democrat and New Labour camps. Ms Latham is an American with duel citizenship and has her roots in the Democrat party and New Labour. She has worked with Tony Blair, She was brought in to help choreograph Bill Clintons re-election campaign in 1996, helped to sneak in Barack Obamas proposed Cabinet nominations for secret interviews after his election in 2008, and helped prepare Hillary Clinton for the White House as part of what was described as her covert operations team. There may have been an added attraction for what appears to have been a selection made by the duchess, rather than Prince Harry. She hasnt hidden her loathing of Donald Trump, describing him on US TV as misogynistic and publicly supporting Mrs Clintons rival presidential campaign. Appointing a PR chief with a long-standing link to the Clintons who of course Mr Trump hates may be seen as a snub to the president. Sources say the couple met Miss Latham, 48, only this year and were immediately drawn to her firm but fair approach. It is possible they were introduced via the duchesss Hollywood friend George Clooney, whose wife Amal attended Meghans recent and lavish baby shower festivities in New York. Clooney was involved in raising funds for the Hillary campaign. A former colleague yesterday described Miss Latham as very smart and very good at dealing with difficult characters. She is, he added, very diplomatically adept and not in it for the money. It is estimated she is on a salary of 140,000 which is relatively modest for what she could be earning in the corporate sector. Miss Latham had recently rejoined the London PR firm, Freuds, as its managing partner. Ms Latham was brought in to help choreograph Bill Clintons re-election campaign in 1996, helped to sneak in Barack Obamas proposed Cabinet nominations for secret interviews after his election in 2008, and helped prepare Hillary Clinton for the White House as part of what was described as her covert operations team Reporting to the Queens press secretary Donal McCabe, Miss Latham will start her new job in the spring; the couples baby is rumoured to be expected next month. Miss Latham will no doubt be paid as much as the palace could afford but spinning for the Sussexes would be no job for an amateur. She seems to have risen effortlessly through the political and corporate worlds in a career that has seen her repeatedly assist global figures including allies of the Clintons and Tony Blair. After being brought in for Bill Clintons successful 1996 re-election campaign, she worked as special assistant to Mr Clintons chief of staff, John Podesta. Between 1996 and 2000, Miss Latham held other White House roles including deputy assistant to the president and, until 2000, deputy director of presidential scheduling. That position brought her close to the then-first lady. After George W Bush won the 2000 presidential election, she moved to Brussels as a government affairs adviser for software giant Microsoft. The next year, she moved again, this time to London to become managing director of Philip Gould Associates, the PR firm set up by the late Lord Gould, the former Labour strategy and polling adviser who was close to Tony Blair. The Blair connection must have helped her move to Freud Communications in 2002. Its founder, Matthew Freud, was not only an ally of Mr Blair, but also had strong Democrat links. In 2005, she was seconded to work for Labours general election campaign, after which she was appointed as special adviser to Tessa Jowell, Mr Blairs culture secretary just as the department learned London would host the 2012 Olympics. Miss Latham left the Government in 2006 to set up her own consultancy. Naturally, her clients reflected her high-level contacts and included the Clinton Foundation and Tony Blair Associates as well as Coca-Cola and the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The shake-up comes as Harry and Meghan prepare for their move away from Kensington Palace to Frogmore Cottage (pictured) on the Windsor Castle estate In 2008, she returned to Washington DC after a farewell party at a trendy Mayfair bar to work again for the Democrats. This time she was employed by Barack Obama as he prepared to enter the White House. He had, of course, defeated her old boss Hillary Clinton in a heated battle for the Democrat nomination. But the Clintons endorsed Mr Obama at the partys 2008 convention, urging supporters to vote for him. An expert, it appears, at helping politicians transition into power, Miss Latham doesnt hang around long in government nor anywhere else, it seems. By 2011 she had returned to the corporate world as non-executive chairman of iEnergizer, a supplier of back-office services to banks which is run by multimillionaire Anil Agarwal. Even in business, she did not allow her political links to wither, and was described in a 2012 report as the go-to girl for top Democrats visiting London. Miss Latham reportedly advised Michelle Obama on which restaurants to visit in the UK. The year after it was back to politics to join Hillary Clintons campaign for president. Miss Latham was appointed chief of staff to John Podesta, now chairman of Mrs Clintons campaign. A presidential candidates selection of running mate is an enormously sensitive operation. John McCain discovered this when he disastrously chose Sarah Palin in 2009 and internal staff tensions were leaked to the media. Mrs Clinton was determined that shouldnt happen again and Miss Latham was asked to oversee a VP selection process that was shrouded in secrecy. As part of a covert operations team, Miss Latham marshalled reports drawn up by 15 law firms asked to vet candidates. She then printed them out in secret and posted them to Mrs Clinton. As Mrs Clinton flew with Senator Tim Kaine her eventual choice to the Florida rally where she would break the news, Miss Latham lightened the mood by persuading him to pull out his harmonica. He obliged, playing a Beatles tune. Confident she would win comfortably, Mrs Clinton appointed Miss Latham one of three aides to oversee transition planning for her new administration. That particular transition, of course, was never to happen. Sara Latham likes to move on regularly in her career. One hopes for the duke and duchesss sake she hangs around long enough to handle their often shifting public image. Detectives investigating child sexual exploitation in Rotherham have arrested 40 people over the past two months. The 38 men and two women were questioned following allegations made by 13 victims about sexual abuse against them between 1997 and 2015. The National Crime Agency said the people arrested are aged between 29 and 53 and are from Sheffield, Rotherham, Leeds, Dewsbury, and Maidstone in Kent. All have been bailed or released under investigation pending further inquiries. The Yorkshire town has been rocked by a series of allegations of sex abuse by Asian gangs The spokeswoman said the victims in the latest cases were aged between 11 and 26 at the time of the alleged offences. The National Crime Agency, often called 'Britain's FBI', is conducting a huge investigation after a 2014 report found more than 1,000 young girls had been abused in the South Yorkshire town. Scandals have since engulfed other towns and cities, including Newcastle, Telford and most recently Huddersfield, with a series of similar gangs jailed. Vulnerable young victims were typically given drugs and alcohol before being passed around between men of Pakistani heritage to be raped and sexually assaulted at will. Authorities did little to tackle the abusers or save their young victims from their terrible ordeals, often due to fears over being labelled racist. The latest arrests are part of the ongoing Operation Stovewood investigation. A huge investigation is being carried out by the National Crime Agency What is Operation Stovewood? The NCA launched Operation Stovewood, at the invitation of South Yorkshire Police, after Professor Alexis Jay's 2014 report into the rape, grooming and trafficking of hundreds of children in Rotherham. The Jay Report described how more than 1,400 children had been affected - a figure which was later established to be an underestimate by Operation Stovewood, which has identified 1,523 victims. It is estimated the operation will cost more than 90 million by 2024 - the date to which current planning extends. Advertisement Towards the end of 2018, the NCA said it had 151 designated suspects, 275 other people under investigation and 296 female survivors of exploitation actively engaging with officers. The NCA has full control of allegations between 1997 and 2013, with 250 staff and an annual budget that will soon reach 15 million a year. Carl Vessey-Baitson from the National Crime Agency said: 'Arresting such a large number of individuals as part of one Stovewood sub-operation shows our desire to listen to victims and bring offenders to justice is not wavering. 'Stovewood is a challenging and complex investigation, with victims and survivors re-living abuse that took place many years ago. 'To date we have engaged with over 410 victims and survivors and have arrested or interviewed by appointment 94 suspects, meaning this is the largest law enforcement investigation into non-familial CSAE ever undertaken in the UK. 'Conducting such an investigation can only be achieved with the support and coordination of our partners, and South Yorkshire Police and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council continue to provide invaluable assistance'. A doting father was filmed dancing along to support his young daughter at a school talent show - and ended up stealing the limelight with his gyrating. Father-of-four Rjay Tolentino, 35, accompanied his nervous six-year-old daughter Lyra Jaz in her Festival of Talent performance in the kindergarten category, in Pasig City, the Philippines. While she is on stage with another child, Lyra Jaz dances the Hula with help from her father, who effortlessly performs the moves for her to follow as he stands before the audience. Father-of-four Rjay Tolentino wiggles and sways as he dances along to support his nervous daughter, Lyra Jaz (on stage, right), during a talent show in the Philippines The six-year-old watches her father as she performs in the Festival of Talent, in the kindergarten category, in Pasig City And little Lyra does pretty well herself as she performs the Polynesian dance routine. Mr Tolentino was only too happy to join in to make sure his daughter was comfortable during the show, on March 9. He said: 'I knew my girl had stage nerves, so I just tried to do everything I could to make her feel better.' An elderly man has toppled from a railway platform in western Sydney, falling face first onto the train tracks. Security camera footage showed the hunched-over man losing control of his balance at Rhodes station on Wednesday at about 1.20pm. Commuters frantically waved at an approaching train to stop. An elderly man loses his balance and falls face first onto train tracks in Sydney's west Brave onlookers jumped onto the tracks to assist the elderly man. A train worker stepped in to control the crowd, directing them to stay behind the yellow line as part of basic safety protocol. 'It's a heart-stopping moment for everyone here,' chief executive of Sydney Trains Howard Collins told 7News. Transport Minister Andrew Constance said the incident was 'dangerous' and said the commuters who came to the aid of the man were 'brave'. 'We could have seen a lot of people killed,' he said. ''But please keep in mind- go to our professional staff first and foremost, notify them.' Commuters were seen frantically waving their arms, signalling an approaching train to stop Mr Collins said incidents such as the one at Rhodes Station could lead to delays, as around 260 peak-time services have been delayed this year by commuters falling ill. Sydney Trains advised anyone feeling ill at a station to contact staff immediately. Amanda Knox (pictured on Good Morning America) will return to Italy next month for the first time since she was cleared Amanda Knox will return to Italy next month for the first time since she was cleared of killing British student Meredith Kercher in Perugia. The 31-year-old will speak to a conference for wrongly accused crime suspects, eight years after she left Italy when her own conviction for murder was overturned. The event, hosted by the Italy Innocence Project in the city of Modena, will discuss 'trial by media' at the two-day event on June 14 and 15. Ms Knox said: 'I'm honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time.' The American spent nearly four years in an Italian prison after she was convicted of murdering British exchange student Ms Kercher in 2007. The body of the 21-year-old British exchange student was found by police in the flat she shared with Ms Knox in Perugia on November 2, 2007. Officers discovered her throat was slashed and she had been sexually assaulted. Ms Knox and her then boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito were arrested and later convicted of murder and sexual assault in 2009. The couple maintained their innocence, insisting that they had spent the evening together at Mr Sollecito's home watching a film, smoking marijuana and being intimate. Ms Knox, then 21, is led from a court in Perugia after a hearing in 2008. She served four years in an Italian prison after she was wrongly convicted Amanda Knox, left, was initially convicted of murdering British exchange student Meredith Kercher, right, in Italy in 2007 but she was later cleared of the killing Describing her ordeal earlier this year, she said: 'I was interrogated for 53 hours over five days, without a lawyer, in a language I understood maybe as well as a ten-year-old. 'When I told the police I had no idea who had killed Meredith, I was slapped in the back of the head and told to 'Remember!' 'I trusted these people. They were adults. They were authorities. And they lied to me.' In 2011 the Perugia Court of Appeal acquitted the pair of the more serious charges, though upholding a minor conviction for Ms Knox. She returned to the United States that year. Ms Knox and her then boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito (pictured together in November 2007) were arrested and later convicted of murder and sexual assault in 2009 Heading home: Amanda Knox at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci Airport in October 2011 as she prepared to return to Seattle following her acquittal Italian police at the house where Meredith Kercher was murdered in November 2007 In a flip-flop series of court decisions in her absence, her murder conviction was reinstated and then finally overturned again in 2015. In the final ruling judges cited flaws in the investigation and said there was a lack of evidence to prove their wrongdoing beyond reasonable doubt, including a lack of 'biological traces' connecting them to the crime. Italy's highest court did, however, confirm a conviction against Knox for falsely accusing a Congolese bar owner. Rudy Hermann Guede, an Ivorian, is serving a 16-year sentence for Ms Kercher's murder. Ivorian national Rudy Guede, pictured behind bars, is currently serving a 16-year sentence for Ms Kercher's murder, while Amanda Knox was acquitted Earlier this year a European court awarded Ms Knox 18,400 ($20,000 or 15,800) in damages after finding that Italian authorities had 'violated her human rights'. She is engaged to fiance Christopher Robinson, a novelist who proposed to Ms Knox with an elaborate sci-fi-themed display last November. During the proposal he took her into their front yard where he had staged a fake meteor, which contained a 'data crystal' describing their 'coalescence'. They have been dating since February 2016 and Ms Knox made the relationship public with a change in her Facebook status later that year. The couple met after Ms Knox - who became known as Foxy Knoxy during her ordeal - had reviewed Robinson's book, War of the Encyclopaedists, on her blog. Ms Knox and her partner, Christopher Robinson (pictured together) have been dating since 2016, having met when Amanda reviewed his novel for a local magazine Michael Anthony Guider (pictured), who drugged, molested and killed nine-year-old Bondi schoolgirl Samantha Knight more than 30 years ago, will walk free in June Authorities could be banned from monitoring the movements of one of the country's most notorious padeophile killers once he's released from prison next month. Michael Anthony Guider, who drugged, molested and killed nine-year-old Bondi schoolgirl Samantha Knight more than 30 years ago will walk free from the Metropolitan Special Programs Centre at Long Bay in June. Guilder was sentenced to 17 years in prison for her manslaughter after he successfully cut a deal to reduce the original murder charge. The 69-year-old pervert - who was also found guilty of 66 paedophilia offences in 1996 - will walk free in weeks unless the New South Wales government win their case to keep him behind bars. The state government have taken the case to the Supreme Court in the hope of keeping Guilder imprisoned or to have him extensively monitored if he allowed is back into the community. In a chilling twist it's understood Guilder - who has never expressed remorse for killing Sam and claims it was an accident - chose not to apply for parole during his sentence in the hope that when he was released he'd be permitted to roam completely free. Samantha Knight (pictured) was just nine years old when she was snatched from a street at Bondi in Sydney's eastern suburbs Denise Hoffman, a former friend of Guilder's, issued an alarming warning and said she believes he will re-offend once released. 'He must've known that if he waited until the due date for release he would not have to be monitored. It's very scary. I feel scared for all the kids,' Ms Hoffman told A Current Affair. 'He is a monster, he has many disguises he's very clever [and] when he gets out he will put himself into a different story a different situation but he will still be looking for kids. He will still abuse kids.' Ms Hoffman also added she believed Guilder should stay in prison until he tells the truth about where Samantha's body was buried. Guilder had previously told investigators he buried Sam in Cooper Park at nearby Bellevue Hill but dug up her body 18 months later when he saw workmen near her grave. Chantelle Hamilton has launched a campaign to keep the sickening paedophile behind bars named 'No body, no release' Paedophile Michael Guider (pictured) claimed he buried Sam Knight's body in Cooper Park at Bellevue Hill in Sydney's eastern suburbs then dug up her body 18 months later when he saw workmen in the area He said he then put Sam's remains in a dumpster containing landfill at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron at Kirribilli on the other side of the harbour. Samantha's body has never been found. Another of Guilder's victims Chantelle Hamilton has launched a campaign to keep him behind bars until he reveals the location of the body. She has launched an online campaign named 'no body, no release' which has already amassed more than 100,000 supporters. Ms Hamilton, who is now a mother-of-two, suffered abuse at the hands of Guilder aged just six. Guilder would lace fizzy pop drinks he gave to Ms Hamilton and her friend before getting them to 'play a game' in which he would get the girl's to 'touch each other' while he took photographs. Many of Guilder's victims, including Sam (pictured), were the daughters of mothers he had befriended and he sexually assaulted them during babysitting sessions Ms Hamilton admits there's still a little part of her that is 'terrified' of Guilder but believes he should now be afraid of her. Samantha and Chantelle are two of potentially scores of children aged two to 16 Guider molested over many years. His usual method of offending was to drug then molest pre-pubescent boys and girls. Many of his victims, including Sam, were the daughters of mothers he had befriended and he sexually assaulted them during babysitting sessions. Guider had first molested Sam when she was living with her mother Tess at Manly in 1984 and 1985. He snatched Sam from near her home in Imperial Avenue, Bondi, after school on August 19, 1986. Sam Knight's parents Tess Knight and Peter O'Meagher do not know where their daughter's remains lie. 'There is no reason why he can't tell us where Sam is,' Ms Knight has said. 'I think I would like to know a little bit more about what happened.' Sam would be 41 if still alive The blonde, green-eyed girl had been seen that afternoon walking the streets in her uniform. Within days Sydney was plastered with 'Find our Sam' posters which described her as intelligent, outgoing and well-spoken. Guider later claimed he had drugged Sam with the sleeping pill Normison and she died of an overdose on his lounge while he went out to the shops. After Guider pleaded guilty to manslaughter Sam's mother said: 'Guider is the only person who knows where Sam is.' 'There is no reason why he can't tell us where Sam is. I think I would like to know a little bit more about what happened.' Guider was sentenced in August 2002 to 17 years' prison with a non-parole period of 12 years for manslaughter. He first became eligible for release in June 2014 when the State Parole Authority refused to let him out and determined he could seek freedom the following year. Parole was again refused in 2015 at which time the authority decided it would not consider his release again until 2017. Guider did not seek parole in 2017 or 2018. Guider's case was mentioned in the Supreme Court on Tuesday and returns to court in May. Samantha Terese Knight would be 41 if still alive. A little boy in east China had to undergo emergency surgery after he was impaled with a bamboo skewer through his mouth in a freak accident. The three-year-old from Zhuji, Zhejiang province, was eating a grilled sausage from the skewer while running when he tripped. The 10cm (3.9in)-long stick pierced through the back of his mouth and into his brain stem, according to doctors. The three-year-old from Zhuji, Zhejiang province, was eating a grilled sausage from the skewer while running when he tripped. The 4in-long stick pierced through the back of his mouth CT scans show the stick lodged in the child's brain stem through the back of his mouth The boy was immediately rushed to the Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine after the accident on May 1, according to Metro Express. Horrifying CT scans show the bamboo stick lodged in the child's brain stem through the back of his mouth. At least one inch of the stick was embedded in the boy's cranial cavity - the space within the skull - according to neurosurgeon Shen Zhipeng, further putting the boy's life at risk. At least one inch of the four inch stick was embedded in the boy's cranial cavity - the space within the skull - according to neurosurgeon Shen Zhipeng, further putting the boy's life at risk 'As the bamboo skewer was contaminated, there might be a chance of infection,' Dr Shen said Following an emergency operation, Dr Shen and his colleagues were able to carefully remove the skewer and stop and bleeding along the way. The young patient is now in stable condition but Dr Shen said it was still unclear whether he would suffer any long-term effects from the injury. 'As the bamboo skewer was contaminated, there might be a chance of infection,' Dr Shen said. He added: 'Once we confirm there is no infection or further bleeding, we can begin evaluating the injury of the brain stem and whether there has been any significant damage to his nerve function.' In February, a 10-year-old girl from central Hubei province was similarly injured when she fell while eating a skewered sausage The skewer impaled her skull from inside her mouth but was fortunately removed during a successful surgery in the city of Yichang Dr Shen also warned that parents should always keep an eye on their children and not let them play with sharp objects such as chopsticks and pencils, especially when they're running. In February, a 10-year-old girl named Zhao Tingting from central Hubei province was similarly injured when she fell while eating a skewered sausage. The skewer impaled her skull from inside her mouth but was fortunately removed during a successful surgery in the city of Yichang. A fired up Bill Shorten stole the show in the third and final leaders' debate against Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Wednesday evening. Held at the National Press Club in Canberra, the two leaders faced off for the last time before voters go to the polls on May 18. In a series of testy exchanges, Mr Morrison tried to put his rival on the spot several times throughout the hour long debate, only to be upstaged by Mr Shorten. Opposition leader Bill Shorten stole the stage during the third and final leaders' debate The Prime Minister came off second best after asking Mr Shorten who will be the Home Affairs minister if Labor wins the election. 'If you win you'll have more people to promote because so many of your current ministry is leaving,' Mr Shorten hit back. 'No need to get nasty,' Mr Morrison jokingly replied before adding 'It was just a joke, smile Bill!' It didn't go down well with Mr Shorten. 'I'm sorry if you think that so many of your people leaving is the source of great amusement. I think it's more a judgement on the Government,' he said. Prime Minister Scott Morrison tried to put his rival on the spot, only to be upstaged The ongoing Israel Folau saga was one of the hot topics. While Mr Morrison said he wanted to ensure Australians can always be free to believe in what they want, Mr Shorten admitted he's unsure is hell exists. 'I don't think if you're gay you're going to go to hell,' he said. 'I don't know if hell exists actually. But I don't think if it does that being gay is what sends you there. So I am uneasy. On the Folau matter I'm also uneasy if he has genuinely held views and he could suffer some sort of really significant penalty.' When asked about social media in public life, Mr Shorten went off track with his awkward explanation of a meme featuring former US First Lade Michelle Obama. 'I don't always read my Twitter feed. I saw a very funny cartoon, a meme of Michelle Obama. Barack Obama's looking at a computer screen and Michelle is saying, 'Don't read that. Just go to bed'. Good advice there I suspect,' Mr Shorten said. The leaders were asked about a wide range of topics from unpopular decisions to climate change and tax to budget deficits and leader instability. Mr Shorten said questions about his climate policies were 'dishonest'. 'The idea that you only look at the investments in new energy without looking at the consequences of not acting on climate change is a charlatan's argument,' he said. 'It's a crooked, charlatan argument.' The Prime Minister accused the Labor leader of being 'shifty' with his green policies by not answering questions about their cost to the taxpayer and businesses. 'Businesses are making investments. They're making themselves more competitive. They're simply saying, 'Tell us the price, Bill. Tell us the price.' It's not a dishonest question,' Mr Morrison said. The Opposition Leader was also drilled over his negative gearing reforms and looked under pressure as the Prime Minister asked him to promise house prices would not fall and that rents would not go up under his plans. 'Can this country keep affording to give taxpayer expenditure to people who invest in existing houses, who buy existing houses and make a loss?' he said. 'As for falling house prices, the biggest falls in house prices have happened under this government's watch. We hear from the government: "Nothing to see here. Move along, please. Climate change, childcare affordability, first-home buyers, no problems". They want more of the same of the last six years.' There were a few testy exchanges when Bill Shorten and Scott Morrison faced off Mr Shorten repeatedly dodged questions from Mr Morrison about Labor costings, before saying that the party's full costing would be released on Friday. 'That's a bit of a cop out,' debate moderator Sabra Lane said. Mr Shorten argued the Liberals released their costings two days before the 2016 election and three days before in the 2013 election. The Prime Minister also came under fire from the moderator when he said the budget was already in surplus. 'I said we brought the budget back to surplus next year,' he replied when Ms Lane pointed out the surplus wasn't for the current financial year. Mr Shorten was also questioned about his role in removing prime ministers in the past. 'I think we need one more change of PM and then we can finish it for a while,' Mr Shorten quipped. A former minister has warning that the Tories face a disaster of 1997 proportions unless the party gets its act together fast. Robert Halfon, a former party deputy chairman, lashed out after what he said had been a local elections 'sh*t-show' where the Conservatives lost more than 1,300 council seats. He warned that Nigel Farage's Brexit Party were a 'tsunami in terms of political disruption' and if had taken part the Toroies might have lost twice as many. The former skills minister also blasted the Prime Minister's decision to sack Gavin Williamson as defence secretary the day before the vote, branding it 'incomprehensible' in an article for Conservative Home. The Harlow MP said that failing to leave the EU on March 29 had done the party 'untold damage' and unleashed 'a tidal wave of anger'. He said: 'Our failure to deliver Brexit, broken promises to properly address burning social injustices, our continued Party disunity and a lack of strong leadership brought about this disaster.' Robert Halfon said the Prime Minister's (pictured today) decision to sack Gavin Williamson as defence secretary the day before the local elections was 'incomprehensible' The former skills minister said: 'We are heading towards a 1997-type defeat unless we make fundamental and radical changes' He added: 'We are heading towards a 1997-type defeat unless we make fundamental and radical changes to our Party machinery and to our policies and deliver, as instructed, a good Brexit.' The Conservatives fear another drubbing at the European election on May 23, now that it has been confirmed that the UK will be taking part. Mr Farage's Brexit Party is currently way ahead in the polls, with both the Tories and Labour struggling to make headway with a fed-up public. Mr Halfon warned: 'The new Brexit Party represents a tsunami in terms of political disruption. 'If their candidates had been standing in the local elections, the Conservatives would have probably lost double the number of councillors. 'This Brexit Party is not the UKIP Party of old. Nigel Farage has matured, and has some serious and credible Euro-Parliamentary candidates. 'In just a couple of weeks, they have 85,000 paying members. In a few months, as things stand, they will probably leapfrog over our membership numbers.' If they stand at the general election and we havent left the EU or there is a second referendum the chances of change in Westminster is huge.' A bereavement counsellor with mental health problems killed both herself and her son amid a family court custody battle, an inquest has heard. The bodies of Cheryl and Leo Tompsett, five, were found at Beachy Head near Eastbourne on June 18 last year. The 42-year-old and her son, both from Maidstone, went missing in the wake of a court ruling that said the boy should be cared for by his father, her ex-partner Mark Woodhams, an inquest heard yesterday. A note addressed to Mr Woodhams said she did not want anyone else to 'have Leo if she could not. Cheryl Tompsett (left) and her son, Leo (right), went missing after a custody battle with the boy's father and their bodies were found near Beachy Head The Maidstone mum and her son who died at Beachy Head have been identified as Cheryl and Leo Tompsett. The hearing, attended by several family members including Mr Woodhams, was told Ms Tompsett had been treated for depression for years and was badly affected when the father to her two older daughters took his own life. She had also recently been signed off work after falling and injuring her knee while on holiday. Friends told how she had been making plans for the future and had just started her 'dream job' as a counsellor in Tunbridge Wells shortly before her death. Mr Woodhams said her mental health problems had worsened in the months leading up to her death. Pictured: A rescue helicopter at the scene where Ms Tompsett and her son were found dead Police were called several times to disturbances at the home after rows between the pair. She moved out and was referred to hospital for a mental health assessment. Being a trained psychotherapist, who previously worked for child bereavement charity Cruse, Mr Woodhams suspected Ms Tompsett had been able to convince hospital staff she was 'fine', the hearing was told. In a statement read to the inquest, Mr Woodhams said he had growing concerns for her welfare and her ability to look after the children because of her escalating erratic behaviour. He said: 'Cheryl had started to behave erratically but more recently there was a noticeable change in her behaviour. 'This had given us all concerns about her own mental health. She wanted to leave and take Leo with her. I didn't believe she was able to care for Leo at present.' After she moved out, it was agreed she could have supervised or pre-arranged visits with Leo. The night before they were found dead, she took him out for dinner with friends and never returned. Mr Woodhams became worried when she did not bring Leo back for his bed time and was unable to contact her. He called police who told him to phone social services but they only referred him back to police, the inquest heard. Mr Woodhams said: 'I wasn't sure what to do.' He phoned police again to report the disappearance for a second time and officers later launched a hunt for the missing pair. Their bodies were found the next morning. Rescue workers are pictured at Beachy Head where the boy and his mother died In a tribute to his son at the time of his death, Mr Woodhams described Leo as 'our shining light, our brightest star'. In the statement read on his behalf by the coroner, Mr Woodhams said: 'I can't begin to explain how this feels. 'I will never get over the loss that I feel. Life will never be the same. We are heartbroken and devastated. Leo had his whole life ahead of him.' Mr Craze ruled Ms Tompsett's death a suicide and concluded her son was unlawfully killed. Addressing the family, he said: 'I'm in no doubt whatsoever that tragically Cheryl came to take her own life. 'This poor lady suffered seriously from mental ill health. 'All reason will have vanished from her.' Although the inquest heard no-one witnessed the incident and exactly what happened cannot be established, Mr Craze added: 'Having read the letter addressed to you (Mr Woodhams), there is no space for one pet cent of doubt about what happened to poor Leo.' If you have been affected by this story, and are in the UK, call The Samaritans at any time, from any phone for FREE, on 116 123, or call Mind's Infoline from Monday to Friday on 03001233393 or text 86463. Ranny Yun (pictured), 27, was murdered in her Springvale house in Melbourne on October 15, 1987 A man has been found guilty of a cold case murder of a woman who's half-naked body was found in her sewing room over 30 years ago. Perth father Meth Mean, 51, was convicted over the murder of Ranny Yun, 27, in her Springvale house in Melbourne on October 15, 1987. He faced the Victorian Supreme Court on Wednesday after DNA secretly taken in 2017 matched semen found on Ms Yun's genitals. Mean is the cousin of Ms Yun's husband and once lived in the same house as the Yun family. 'The accused murdered the deceased in the course of a sexual assault,' crown prosecutor Nanette Rogers SC told the jury in March. Mean and Ms Yun were both refugees who fled the genocidal Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia Perth father Meth Mean (pictured), 51, was found guilty of the cold case murder at the Victorian Supreme Court on Wednesday Ms Yun was home alone on the afternoon she was killed. Her 13-year-old cousin Rada found her dead body in her sewing room, naked from the waist down, with severe head injuries and wounds to her throat and chin. Rada, now in her 40s, said there was tension and 'agitations' when she and Ms Yun lived with the Mean family in 2018. 'I just remember that there were agitations between Ranny and Meth, but it was just little family problems.' Ms Yun (pictured) had fled the genocidal regime in Cambodia and was home alone on the afternoon she was killed The defence argued Mean was only 14 at the time of the crime as he has no birth certificate. The prosecution said he was aged between 18 and 20, which was supported by witnesses. Mean's lawyer argued he was not the killer and that semen was left at the scene after Ms Yun's murder. He is due to be sentenced at a later date and his matter will be heard next on May 29. Mean was arrested in 2017 after secretly taken DNA matched semen found on Ms Yun's genitals The cold case stumped detectives for 30 years despite offering a $50,000 reward. Homicide squad Detective Senior Sergeant John Ashby at the time said she was responsible for several executions for the Khmer Rouge. 'It could have been a payback murder and people may be fearful about coming forward with information because of possible reprisals,' he said. Ms Yun's younger cousin Rada, who is now in her 40s, told police in 2010 her cousin was killed 'the Asian way'. 'I used to live in the Khmer Rouge regime, and this is how people were killed,' she said. 'I've seen how people got killed and hit from behind.' A rare two-headed albino turtle, valued at 24,000 ($31,500), has been filmed struggling on a short swim - and it's also struggling to find a new owner because collectors don't think it will live much longer. The red-eared slider turtle, called Nop, was born with the rare mutation on a farm in Bangkok, Thailand, on March 3. Its current owner, Noon Ausanee, had the creature valued and breeders gave it a price of at least one million Thai baht. However, prospective buyers are concerned about the turtle's life span - despite her reassurances that she thinks it will live for a long time. Nop, a rare albino red-eared slider turtle, explores its blue plastic environment. It was born in March on a farm in Bangkok, Thailand The turtle struggles to make its way around. Its owner, Noon Ausanee, has had Nop valued by breeders, who say it is worth one million Thai baht (24,000) Ausanee said: 'I feel very lucky that this turtle was born. I would like to sell him. I have had some phone calls about him but it's a lot of money and people are worried it could die quickly.' The red-eared slider is a type of pond slider, which is a popular pet around the world. What are red-eared slider turtles? The red-eared slider (pictured) is so called as it has a red or orange (rarely yellow) streak behind each eye. Originating in North America, they are mainly aquatic and will emerge from the water for basking. Full-grown adults can reach 12 inches in length - and can live in excess of 20 years. Unfortunately, baby Nop is not expected to live that long due to its mutation. Advertisement Turtles with two heads - a condition known as polycephaly - are considered rare and a number of them are kept in museums. And, not surprisingly, an albino two-headed turtle is rarer still. Ausanee added: 'The turtle is two months old now and he is still strong. 'We feed him every day and he eats it all. 'I think he will live for a long time and bring a lot of good luck to whoever has him.' Experts say that such a turtle should not be released into the wild as it is unlikely to survive on its own and might pass on the rogue gene. A similar turtle was discovered on a beach in Florida two years ago. The chances of any single hatchling surviving are extremely low, with anywhere from 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 10,000 infant turtles making it adulthood, according to statistics from the United States Sea Turtle Conservancy. Red-eared sliders are a popular pet around the world - but collectors are concerned that one with a mutation such as Nop's won't live for very long. Despite concerns from prospective buyers, Ausanee thinks Nop will live a long time - and bring its new owner luck In August 2017, a similar two-headed turtle (above) was found in a beach in Florida by researchers. While checking empty nests left by recently hatched loggerhead turtles, scientists spotted the reptile struggling to keep up with its fellow hatchlings David Copeland, 62, (pictured outside Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court) was the captain of an American Airlines flight bound for Philadelphia, which was due to leave Manchester Airport on February 7 An alcoholic pilot has been spared jail after admitting being over the legal limit before a flight to the US. David Copeland, 62, was the captain of an American Airlines flight bound for Philadelphia, which was due to leave Manchester Airport on February 7. Police were alerted after a security worker said he could smell alcohol on Copeland's breath as he went through checks. Copeland, who was already in the cockpit, was then taken off the plane. He said he had drunk alcohol 12 hours earlier, before failing an airside breath test. He was then taken to a police station where he blew a reading of 27 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, the limit for flying an aircraft being 20. Copeland pleaded guilty to one count of performing an aviation function while impaired by drink at Manchester Magistrates' Court last month. Prosecutor Kelly Laverty opened the case. She said he was scheduled to the captain of a flight from Manchester to Philadelphia on February 7. However, she says as he went through security a worker 'formed the impression he was under the influence of alcohol due to his demeanour and the smell of alcohol on his breath'. She said he failed an air-side breath test and was taken to a police station where a blood test showed he had 27mg of alcohol, the limit being 20. Henry Blackshaw, who is defending Mr Copeland said Mr Copeland is supported in court by his wife Bobby Copeland, an attorney from the American Airlines pilots union and the head of flight for American Airlines in Philadelphia. Stock image showing an American Airlines plane at Philadelphia International Airport He said to Judge Maurice Greene 'what your honour may feel shines through from this is that the defendant has the support of his family, his local community and also the airline, who were his employers'. The airline accepted alcohol consumption can be a medical problem, he added. Mr Blackshaw said Copeland, who has just turned 63, has been happily married for 32 years and has two adult sons, both of whom are pilots. Copeland is himself the son of a pilot, with his father serving his country, before moving into civil aviation. Copeland obtained his basic pilots licence when he was 19 and when he was 23, obtained his commercial pilots licence, the court hears. He has so far clocked up 27,000 flying miles. Copeland was a 'popular and well-respected captain with the crews that fly under him both in the cockpit and in the cabin', Mr Blackshaw added. Mr Blackshaw said Copeland landed in Manchester on a flight from Philadelphia on Tuesday, February 5. David Copeland, 62, (pictured outside Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court) was the captain of an American Airlines flight bound for Philadelphia, which was due to leave Manchester Airport on February 7 He says Copeland felt 'a little out of sorts' during his two night stopover. He slept in the day both on the 5th and the 6th, the day before the return journey. That meant he wasn't as sleepy the night before his return journey. Mr Blackshaw said his client had a 'modest' amount of alcohol with dinner and then had some rum as a 'night cap', while staying up late to communicate with his wife in the US. Copeland had 'full regard' for the eight hour 'bottle to throttle' rule - prohibiting consumption of any alcohol eight hours prior to flying - but says it is the combination of the alcohol at dinner and in the evening which must have led to him still being over the limit the following morning. He said his colleagues in the cockpit had no concerns about him on the day. 'We have to accept, that due to his responsibilities that this crosses the custody threshold. 'However, your honour may take the view that given that taking everything into account, the amount to which he was over the limit and the positive and encouraging steps which have been taken since that you can suspend any sentence.' Judge Maurice Greene told Copeland he was an experienced pilot and he must have drank 'quite an amount' to still be over the limit when he was tested. 'This is a custody case, the issue is whether it can be suspended' he said. The judge said the limit for alcohol in a pilots' system in the US is 40mg and he wouldn't have committed an offence had this happened in the US. He added he is an experienced pilot and should 'know the rules in different territories'. 'This is a serious offence because of the responsibility you hold as a commercial pilot,' the judge told Copeland. 'You hold lives of many people in your hands when you go onto that plane. 'You don't need me to tell you about the responsibility that you have. That's why the courts must treat these offences very seriously indeed.' 'I accept you complied with the eight hour rule and didn't drink eight hours before the flight, but you obviously drank quite an amount for there still to be that level of alcohol in your blood at the time of the flight,' Judge Greene said. 'You were only just over the limit and there is evidence from your colleagues that they didn't see any impairment. You are held in in extremely high regard both within your profession and outside it. 'This is a blemish on your record, your reputation and your good name. 'You have accepted you have a problem with alcohol.' The judge said it is so serious that a custodial sentence must be passed, but that he has decided, in all the circumstances, he can suspend the sentence. He was given a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, after admitting the charge of performing an aviation function while impaired by drink at an earlier hearing at Manchester Magistrates' Court. The court heard that, since his arrest, he had been diagnosed with alcoholism. He was undergoing a treatment programme for his alcohol issues, which had included spending 30 days in a residential unit and attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings daily, the court was told. Judge Greene said if Copeland successfully completed six to eight months of the programme he would be required to undergo a neuro-psychiatric evaluation to assess his fitness to fly. 'I very much doubt you will commit any further offences,' the judge added, before allowing Copeland to leave the dock. Olivia Wilde took time out from promoting her directing debut 'Booksmart' to preview new London women only private member club, The AllBright Mayfair, ahead of the clubs star studded launch tonight. Wilde joins a cast of female powerhouses including Naomie Harris, Jameela Jamil, Ruth Wilson, as founder members of The AllBright Clubs, as well as entrepreneur and House of Lords peer Martha Lane-Fox, EMEA Facebook VP Nicola Mendelsohn and MOBO Awards Founder Kanya King. Olivia Wilde (centre) took time out from promoting her directing debut 'Booksmart' to preview new London women only private member club, The AllBright Mayfair The Allbright connects its female community through beautiful members club in Mayfair and Bloomsbury, central London, and they are venturing across the Atlantic with their first American club, launching in LA in July. A fourth club is due to open in New York in 2020 The AllBright will open the doors to its second female-only members club, The AllBright Mayfair, on 9 May 2019 The Allbright connects its female community through beautiful members club in Mayfair and Bloomsbury, central London, and they are venturing across the Atlantic with their first American club, launching in Los Angeles in July. A fourth club is due to open in New York in 2020. The club, which takes its name from formidable former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, is a network and community that aims to create opportunities for women to thrive and flourish through its clubs and its Academy, a digital education platform offering free business courses in the UK and US. The AllBright will open the doors to its second female-only members club, The AllBright Mayfair, on 9 May 2019. The ex-lover of Married at First Sight villain Sam Ball has breached her apprehended violence order weeks after she faced court accused of stalking him. Akila Ahmunett, 30, was spotted at the reality star's Redfern apartment in Sydney on March 21, despite being issued with an AVO a month before. The court heard how a 'third party' called police at 3.20am on March 21 claiming that Ahmunett was carrying knives and had threatened to slit Ball's throat. Ball (pictured) told officers he was going to get the AVO withdrawn, after police arrived at his flat and spotted Ahmunett walking into his courtyard The 30-year-old pleaded guilty to breaching her AVO at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, The Daily Telegraph reported. Ahmunett's AVO bans her from contacting Ball and she must maintain a 100-metre distance from his home. On the evening in question, Ball told officers he was going to get the AVO withdrawn, after police arrived at his flat and spotted Ahmunett walk into his courtyard. Police asked Ball about 'fresh scratch marks' on the left side of his neck but he refused to elaborate, court documents say. When Ahmunett was questioned by police about why she was at Ball's property, she said she was there simply to pick up her phone. 'I thought I was able to come over if I was invited. I don't understand the law,' she said. 'I am just here to pick up my phone, please don't arrest me, I have work in the morning.' The 30-year-old was then taken to Redfern Police Station. Ball first reported Ahmunett to police for alleged 'domestic abuse' on February 4, after a falling-out. He applied for an AVO against Ahmunett on February 21, after he accused her stalking him, bombarding him with text messages, emails and phone calls. Ahmunett admitted to trespassing in his flat on February 22 while other charges of stalking and harassment were dropped. The 30-year-old will be sentenced for unlawful entry and for breaching her AVO on May 29. A man renting a flat from an Airbnb 'Superhost' in east China was shocked to discover a hidden camera in the bedroom's internet router. The man, who worked in IT security, checked into the home in Qingdao, Shandong province with his friends last Wednesday night but quickly spotted something unusual. He first found a motion sensor installed near the flat's entrance and two more in each of the bedrooms. After checking the smoke detectors and television, he searched the router and soon found a hidden lens disguised as an internet light on the device. A man renting a flat from an Airbnb 'Superhost' in Qingdao, east China's Shandong province was shocked to discover a hidden camera (circled) in the bedroom's internet router By looking up photos of the product online, the man suspected that the WiFi router had been modified, according to Beijing Youth Daily. He unscrewed the device and was shocked to find a digital memory card inside. 'As soon as I started removing the screws, I knew something was wrong - the screws were very lose,' he told reporters. After making the unsettling discovery, the man, referred to by his online alias Yunfei, immediately alerted police. He quickly took apart the WiFi router and saw the hidden lens connected to a memory card By looking up photos of the product, the man suspected the WiFi router had been modified He said he had never met the host in person and had only communicated with him on social media about the check-in process. He had paid the top-rated host 1,700 yuan (192) for three nights' stay. Police quickly tracked down the flat owner, who had been filming his guests since March this year, the report said. The unnamed host was fined 500 yuan (56) and sentenced to a 20-day detention for invasion of privacy. Airbnb has apologised for the incident and said the host's flat had been permanently removed from its home-sharing platform. After making the unsettling discovery, the man, referred to by his online alias Yunfei, immediately alerted police. Officers tracked down the host and detained him 'The safety and privacy of our community is our top priority. We have zero tolerance toward any behaviour which would infringe our users' privacy,' Airbnb said in a statement to MailOnline. The company had also refunded the guest's money on May 2 when he contacted them for help, it added. Just a month ago, a New Zealand family made a similar discovery when they checked into a Cork holiday home in Ireland. The Barkers found a hidden camera in a smoke alarm in the living room, which was connected to a live video feed. Airbnb had apologised and refunded the family their money. Plans to build a cable car on Mount Kilimanjaro have come under fire from locals demanding that Africa's highest mountain is 'left as it is'. The Tanzanian government recently announced that they are in talks with Chinese and Western companies to construct a cable car route in a bid to boost tourism. Some 50,000 climbers already tackle the 5,895m hike each year however, this project would supposedly allow those incapable of tackling the ascent to still experience the journey. But people are already calling for these proposals to be ripped up because they claim it will harm life on the World Heritage Site and diminish the achievement of walking mammoth journey to the summit. The Tanzanian government recently announced that they are in talks to construct a cable car route on the Africa's tallest mountain (Kilimanjaro pictured) in a bid to boost tourism Some 50,000 climbers already tackle the 5,000m hike each year, many of whom raise money for charity, including celebrities for Comic Relief (pictured) The government has not confirmed the specific track which the cable will run up but local media reported it will be along the Machame Route - also known as the Whiskey Route Much of the criticism has come from porters working along the walking paths who claim their jobs will be in jeopardy. Loishiye Mollel, head of Tanzania Porters' Organisation, said: 'One visitor from the U.S. can have a maximum of 15 people behind him, of which 13 are porters, a cook and a guide. 'All these jobs will be affected by a cable car. We are of the view that the mountain should be left as it is.' However, the proposals also prompted a backlash from climbers who believe an easy access route up the mountain will dilute the feats of those who have hiked it. Bejal Shah, who runs Kilimanjaro Tours guide company, said that erecting a cable car on the mountain would 'ruin' it. He told MailOnline: 'The whole point of climbing Kilimanjaro is that you're trying to push yourself and people do it for charity. 'I understand it from their [government's] point of view, but there are people in wheelchairs who have climbed Kilimanjaro and the locals always help. Climbers have said that the plans would diminish the achievement of walking mammoth journey to the summit (pictured) The proposals would allow those incapable of tackling the ascent to still experience the journey Bejal Shah told MailOnline: 'The whole point of climbing Kilimanjaro is that you're trying to push yourself and people do it for charity' (Comic Relief climb pictured) And commenting on how the impact of the mountain's beauty would be affected, he said: 'It would ruin it, I can't see how it would look good.' Social media also erupted with previous climbers hitting out at the plan to install cable cars. Nicola Cummings said: 'Climbing Kilimanjaro is an extremely personal, physical and mental challenge. 'I found it an incredibly emotional and spiritual experience. To turn it into a tourist attraction for day trippers is just wrong on every level.' The push-back came after Constantine Kanyasu, the deputy minister for tourism, revealed the government's intentions for the build. Little Mix's Jade Thirlwall climbed the mountain for charity in February along with other celebrities He said: 'We are still doing a feasibility study to see if this project works. 'There are two companies one from China and another from a Western country that have shown interest. 'This won't be the first time in the world, cable cars are there in Sweden, Italy, the Himalayas.' But Victor Manyanga, a seasoned tour guide, warned that the cable car would damage the wildlife on the mountain. 'The Machame itinerary along which the cable car will be constructed is the birds migratory route, and electric wires will definitely harm them,' he told the East African. And Merwyn Nunes, a former civil servant in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, voiced his opposition to the cable car because it is not going to be built by Tanzanian companies. Cable cars have been installed on other mountains around the world, such as the Table Mountain in South Africa (pictured) The government has not confirmed the specific track which the cable will run up but local media reported that Beatrice Mchome, from Crescent Environmental Management Consult, said it 'will be rolled out along the Machame Route where the ascent will start and end.' The Machame Route - also known as the Whiskey Route - is reportedly popular because it offers a scenic climb, but it is also 'difficult, steep and challenging'. But the length of the route has not been finalised, with various options under consideration depending on cost and engineering issues, the minister maintained. Mr Kanyasu said the government was looking at business plans, potential investors and profits and an environmental impact assessment would also be carried out, he said. Tanzania's earnings from tourism jumped 7.13 percent last year, helped by an increase in arrivals from foreign visitors. Tourism revenues raised $2.43 billion for the year, up from $2.19 billion in 2017. Tourists are the main source of hard currency in Tanzania, known for its beaches, wildlife safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro, which has three volcanic cones. A bank's move to celebrate the characteristics of towns and cities across the UK has been ridiculed after it placed a Geordie-themed advert in Nottingham. Locals were baffled to find a billboard assigning them a new identity with the statement: 'You are Newcastle.' The HSBC poster told East Midlands residents that their home is 'the toon that's part of something far, far bigger'. It lauded the 'home of the Geordies', referenced its 'magpies' and mentioned the Angel of the North. This poster greeted Nottingham residents, who were baffled to see an advert that celebrated their 'toon' and proclaimed it to be the home of Geordies HSBC has apologised after social media users ridiculed the placement when the advert was spotted on Friday in the Bulwell area. Wendy Richardson wrote on Twitter: 'Says it all about corporate care!' Jessica Brown said: 'This is brilliant. "You are Newcastle" it declares, proudly, to Nottingham.' The Nottingham Post also got in on the joke, tweeting: '"Home of the Geordies?" Don't think so duckeh!' James Hewitt said: 'Maybe I'm just sleep deprived, but this seems genuinely hilarious for some reason.' The poster should heave read 'you are Nottingham' and started with 'more than an outlaw's city'. HSBC said it had now replaced the incorrect poster. The bank's apology read: 'Correction. You are NOT Newcastle (apologies Nottingham). More seriously, thanks for pointing this out.' This is the poster that was supposed to have been placed all over Nottingham and celebrates Robin Hood The posters are part of the bank's We Are Not An Island campaign. On its website, HSBC says: 'Our campaign reinforces our strong belief that many of the things that make us quintessentially British are the things that make us inescapably international.' A launch poster teasing the campaign read: 'We are not an island. We are a Colombian coffee drinking, American movie watching, Swedish flat-pack assembling, Korean tablet tapping, Belgian striker supporting, Dutch beer cheers-ing, tikka masala eating, wonderful little lump of land in the middle of the sea. We are part of something far. far bigger.' Gerry Adams has denied he was a member of the IRA, but said he will never disassociate himself from the organisation. The former Sinn Fein president was giving evidence to a fresh inquest into the killing of 10 people in the Ballymurphy area of Belfast in 1971. The episode dubbed the 'Ballymurphy massacre' started on August 9 as the British Army moved into republican strongholds to arrest IRA suspects after the introduction by the Stormont administration of the controversial policy of internment without trial. A new inquest at Belfast Coroner's Court is examining the deaths of 10 civilians, including a Catholic priest and a mother of eight, between August 9 and 11. Answering questions from David Heraghty, counsel for the coroner, Adams said: 'I was not a member of the IRA, I have never disassociated myself from the IRA and I never will until the day I die. 'I understand that victims of the IRA won't like what I am saying... I deeply regret there was a war.' Gerry Adams has denied he was a member of the IRA as he gave evidence at the inquest into the 1971 Ballymurphy massacre. The victims were Father Hugh Mullan, 38, Francis Quinn, 19, Daniel Teggart, 44, Joan Connolly, 44, Noel Phillips, 19, Joseph Murphy, 41, John Laverty, 20, and Joseph Corr, 43, Edward Doherty, 31, and John McKerr, 49. Claims that IRA gunmen were in the area at the time have been disputed during the inquest hearings. A barrister for the Ministry of Defence pressed Adams, suggesting he was sworn into D Company of the IRA in 1966. Adams responded: 'That's not correct.' Adams lived opposite the Henry Taggart Army base where some of the shooting happened, and was accused of being a commander of the IRA in the Ballymurphy area. Adams said he did not witness any of the deaths despite his home being in Divismore Park. He said at that time he rarely slept at his family home following an incident when masked men called at the front and side doors looking for him, when he was staying with a friend in nearby Springhill Crescent. Adams said his father and brother Liam were interned on August 9, and soldiers had asked for him. Asked whether the IRA had attacked the Army on August 9, Adams told the inquest he did not have direct knowledge of the Provisional IRA's actions, but he understood it ordered no engagement with the British Army that day. Families of those who died in the Ballymurphy Massacre hold images of those who died outside Laganside Court in Belfast He said there had been a rumour in the area that a gunman from the Official IRA had fired on the Henry Taggart Memorial Hall where the Army was based, but added that the 'bush telegraph' in those days was 'sometimes accurate and sometimes inaccurate'. He said it had been a 'sensible decision' by the Provisional IRA not to 'engage the British Army', for the 'safety of the community and safety of the volunteers'. The barrister for the Ministry of Defence put to Adams that he was commander of the IRA in the Ballymurphy area in November 1969. Adams responded: 'That's not correct. I gave a full answer to this question when it was put to me by Mr Heraghty.' Earlier in the hearing, Adams detailed how, during the mid to late 1960s, he was involved with republicanism, describing himself as an 'organiser' and a member of Sinn Fein. The ten victims of the shootings in 1971 are pictured, left to right top row: Joseph Corr, Danny Taggart, Eddie Doherty, Father Hugh Mullan, Frank Quinn, Paddy McCarthy. Bottom row: Joan Connolly, John McKerr, Noel Philips, John Laverty and Joseph Murphy The Provisional IRA is believed to have been founded in 1969, and went on to become the dominant force in violent Irish republicanism until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Adams told the inquest that in 1969 he was in the minority as not having been involved with the military wing of republicanism. 'I had the distinction of having been active since the mid 1960s and having been involved in the type of agitated activity. I continued with that,' he told the inquest. 'The military tendency within republicanism was the dominant tendency.' He described Ballymurphy in 1971 as being under a 'heavy' and 'aggressive occupation' by the British Army and claimed CS gas and rubber bullets were frequently deployed against residents. The inquest continues. The two students accused of opening fire on classmates at their Denver high school have been revealed as an 18-year-old boy and a young girl - as authorities say the 18-year-old student who was shot dead was due to graduate in just three days. Devon Erickson, 18, and a juvenile female - who authorities previously identified as a boy - were taken into custody following the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver on Tuesday afternoon. Erickson was charged as an adult on Wednesday with first-degree murder and attempted murder ahead of an initial court appearance in the afternoon. His accused accomplice is being charged separately as a juvenile. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office said they had initially believed the female shooter was a male based on appearances and were not able to confirm her gender until an interview had taken place. The underage student is reportedly in the process of transitioning from female to male but Sheriff Tony Spurlock would not confirm if the young suspect was transgender. 'Right now we are identifying the individual as a female, because that's where we're at,' he said. 'We originally thought the juvenile was a male by appearance.' Scroll down for video Devon Erickson, 18, has been identified as one of the two suspects who allegedly opened fire on STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado on Tuesday afternoon Kendrick Castillo, 18, was killed when the two students stormed into two classrooms and opened fire with handguns that were concealed in a guitar case. Eight students suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting and three of them remain in intensive care in hospital. Five had been discharged from the hospital by Wednesday morning. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, which occurred just miles from the scene of the deadly 1999 Columbine High School massacre. Kendrick Castillo, 18, died on Tuesday afternoon when two students stormed STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver and opened fire with at least two handguns Castillo, the 18-year-old student who was shot dead, was just three days away from graduating, according to Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock. Classmates said Castillo was among a group of three students who tried to take down one of the shooters by tackling them when they stormed the classroom. The father of one of those heroic students, Brendan Bialy, told the New York Times that the trio tackled the shooters when they entered the classroom 'and one pulled a gun out of a guitar case'. He said 'his son and two friends tried to tackle the gunman but one of the boys was shot in the chest'. 'We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school,' Sheriff Spurlock said. The two suspects opened fire in two separate classrooms in the high school section of the campus, which serves grades kindergarten through 12th. Authorities said they went into the school through an entrance without metal detectors. They were arrested within minutes after administrators reported the gunfire, according to Sheriff Spurlock. Spurlock said officers engaged the suspects and there was a struggle to bring them down but neither suspect was injured in the confrontation. Authorities recovered three handguns and a rifle but said the latter was not used in the shooting. The two students were not old enough to buy or own the handguns. Terrified students were evacuated from the school after shots were fired at 1.53pm Fernando Montoya (above with his daughter) said that his 17-year-old son was shot three times but was expected to make a full recovery Authorities were seen outside a home in Highland Springs believed to be owned by Erickson's parents, James and Stephanie, on Tuesday night Car towed from #stemshooting suspect's home apparently has "F*** SOCIETY" spray painted on the side. Also "666" and a what looks like a pentagram sprayed on the hood. pic.twitter.com/e6QX3lq4v3 John Fenton (@higuysimjohn) May 8, 2019 Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said Devon Erickson, 18, and a younger student walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire with two handguns on students in two classrooms Authorities were seen outside a home in Highland Springs believed to be owned by Erickson's parents, James and Stephanie. The mother's Facebook page was deleted shortly after news broke of the shooting. A car spray painted with the words 'f*** society' was towed away from the house at around 10pm. A criminal background check revealed Erickson's almost unblemished record, which noted a ticket for careless driving issued in Douglas County on February 13, 2018. His mother broke down in tears on Wednesday and said she didn't know why her son opened fire on classmates, the New York Post reports. The teen's social media pages indicate that he is an avid guitar player, youth theater actor and registered Democrat who has on occasion expressed disdain for Christians, criticized President Donald Trump and praised former President Barack Obama. In a post from 2014, Erickson wrote: 'You know what I hate? All these Christians who hate gays, yet in the bible, it says in Deuteronomy 17:12-13, if someone doesn't do what their priest tells them to do, they are supposed to die. It has plenty of crazy stuff like that. But all they get out of it is 'ewwwwww gays'.' In 2015 he shared a Facebook post by Occupy Democrats praising Obama, and in 2016 shared a video of TV host Seth Meyers criticizing Trump. Erickson also has a YouTube channel where he posted videos of himself playing the guitar. His Snapchat account is reportedly under the name 'devonkills'. In one Instagram post obtained by Heavy.com, Erickson wrote: 'I'm covered in ink and addicted to pain.' In another from 2018 he said: 'I'm only posting one of my senior pictures so people don't think I dropped out since I don't take classes at stem anymore.' A combination of factors, including revenge and anger, spurred the attack, the Denver TV ABC affiliate reported, citing law enforcement sources. One of the suspects had reportedly been bullied over gender identity. Erikson was charged on Wednesday as an adult with murder and attempted murder The teen's social media pages indicate that he is an avid guitar player and a youth theater actor. Erickson also has a YouTube channel where he posted videos of himself playing the guitar The harrowing texts a teen sent his father as two shooters stormed his Denver high school The father of one of the Denver high school students forced to hide in his classroom when two shooters opened fire has shared the harrowing text messages he received from his teenage son as the gunfire rang out. Eldon Elledge's teenage son immediately texted his father when the alarms sounded and they were placed on lockdown at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver on Tuesday afternoon. His terrified son's messages became increasingly frantic as he told his father he could hear gunshots, was hiding in a classroom that had four separate entrances and that he loved him 'just in case'. Elledge shared the messages on Facebook on Wednesday and described it as 'the scariest moment of my life'. 'Dad the school is on an unexpected lockdown. They've got sirens playing all in the school and the radios are going crazy,' his son said in his first message. 'I'm in the P.E. room with four different entrances. Everyone is freaking out. It's not a drill I'm actually scared. My heart is racing. I'm actually freaking out, I'm really scared.' Elledge replied to his son and pleaded with him to remain calm and 'remember your training' for an active shooter situation. 'Dad the announcements are going crazy. The speakers are telling everyone to get out of sight. The teacher thinks somebody is in the school,' his son wrote. Elledge told his son he was on his way to the school, adding: 'But remain calm, breath slowly and pay attention. Listen to all sounds. Breath short quite breathes and listen to anything off.' His son's messages became increasingly more terrified as the teenager described what was unfolding inside. 'Okay. There is a bunch of yelling in the hallway,' he wrote. 'There is gunshots. Dad. Gunshots. Oh my god. The school is flooded with police. Gunshots. 'Dad there is no where to hide, it's an open room. 'All I hear is yelling and screaming. I can't call the teacher won't let me. What do I do dad I'm freaking out. The screaming has stopped. 'Dad I love you, just in case.' Elledge told his son he loved him as well before adding that a lot of children were coming out of the school and repeatedly asking where he was. 'Somebody is dead. Somebody died,' his son wrote replied. Advertisement Fernando Montoya told television station KMGH that his 17-year-old son was shot three times but was expected to make a full recovery. 'Thank God he is fine,' Montoya said. 'Even though he got shot, he's OK. He's going to walk out on his feet, so I'm glad. We're so lucky.' As gunfire echoed through the school, students hid or ran through the halls. Students ran through the halls shouting 'School shooter!' and some wondered at first if it was a joke or a drill. 'No one really knew what was going on so I didn't know they were bullets,' said seventh-grader Sophia Marks. 'I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs.' Student Nui Giasolli told the Today show she was in her British Literature class when Erickson came in late. 'He walked to the other side of the classroom where we also had another door and he opened the door. He walked back as if he was going to go back to his seat, then he walked back to the door and he closed it. The next thing I know he's pulling a gun and he's telling nobody to move,' she said. Giasolli said another student lunged at the shooter, giving the other students time to dive under the desks and flee to safety. 'To be some of the kids that were brave enough to bring him down so that all of us could escape and all of us could be reunited with our families. They were very heroic. I can't thank them enough.' Chris Elledge, 15, said his teacher told the class to hide behind weight equipment in the room, where they stayed until police arrived. 'They busted in the room, and they were asking if there was any suspects in the room, if we were OK, and they escorted us out to go out to the front of the building,' Elledge said. Josh Dutton, 18, told The Associated Press that he was close friends with Devon Erickson in middle school but hadn't seen him for four years as he went to a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Erickson wore all black, a hat and sunglasses, was significantly skinnier and didn't seem interested in talking. 'He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles,' Dutton said. A teacher embraces young students in a parking lot near the STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado on Tuesday after a shooter opened fire Parents embrace their children as they are reunited at a recreation center near the school Students and teachers hold their hands in the air as they exit the scene of the shooting A massive police presence descended on the school minutes after shots were fired at 1.53pm Parents pick up their children from the Recreation Center at Northridge in Highlands Ranch after the shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday Hundreds of people took to Twitter after news of the shooting broke to express their horror that yet another American school had been targeted. The shooting is the 43rd incident of gunfire reported on a school campus so far in 2019 and the 116th mass shooting overall this year. The STEM campus is located just seven miles from Columbine High School, where 13 people were killed and more than 20 were injured on April 20, 1999 - just over 20 years ago. One student at a nearby high school tweeted: 'Being a student in Colorado is terrifying. Threats, secure permitters, lockdowns, missing school because of credible threats, and now another school shooting. I'm tired. What is the government doing to help us? My death is inevitable. Please talk about this.' Another user tweeted: '20 years later, 7 miles from Columbine, and 0 actions taken in Washington to protect kids from gun violence.' The White House issued the following statement about the shooting: 'Our prayers are with the victims, family members, and all those affected by today's shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Littleton, Colorado. Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence. 'The White House has been in communication with state and local officials, and the President has been briefed and continues to monitor the ongoing situation. We offer our full support to local law enforcement and first responders and thank them for their heroism.' Sarah Parker, 32, has been charged with child neglect resulting in risk of injury A West Virginia mom passed out in a McDonald's bathroom after doing drugs in front of her two children, according to authorities. The incident involving Sarah Parker, 32, occurred in a Charleston branch of the fast food chain on Saturday. Police said Parker snorted the drugs through her nose before losing consciousness. Law enforcement state that her two-year-old and three-year-old children were in the bathroom with her when she passed out. A criminal complaint obtained by WCHS-TV says an unidentified blue powder was in her purse, which was within reach of her children. Also inside the same small plastic container holding the substance was marijuana. The complaint stated multiple glass pipes for use of another type of drug were discovered. A folding knife and a can of mace were found on the floor next to Parker at the Patrick Street restaurant location. Now Parker has been charged with child neglect resulting in risk of injury. She was being held Tuesday as a pretrial felon at South Central Regional Jail on a $10,000 cash bond. Her attorney didn't return a voicemail from the Associated Press. A cancer stricken mother went missing for more than 30 hours after she ran away from hospital to avoid more painful chemotherapy. Hazel Henry, 55, was stranded overnight in the dense bushland of Kings Park after leaving Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth at 5.30am on Tuesday. She was found curled up under a tree and too weak to walk by a SES search dog named Jackson at 11.30am on Wednesday. As paramedics wrapped Ms Henry in an emergency blanket and put her on a stretcher her emotional husband Ivan Elliott bent down to give her a kiss. 'G'day, my darlin. I love you,' he said. Ms Henry had nothing to eat except for a piece of gum while she stranded. She was told she has just weeks left to live after falling ill in February. 'I was so happy it was tears of joy,' Mr Elliott told Channel 7 after his wife was found. 'I've had so many (tears) of unhappiness the past few days, it's so nice to have something to be happy about.' Cancer patient Hazel Henry (pictured), 55, was stranded overnight in the dense bushland of Kings Park after leaving Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth at 5.30am on Tuesday Ms Henry suffered a head injury after taking a fall in the dense bushland that left her stranded. She had discharged herself from hospital but police were able to track her to Kings Park with security camera footage. Search and rescue dogs were brought in by the SES on Wednesday morning after an unsuccessful overnight search. Ms Henry was found curled up under a tree and too weak to walk by a SES search dog named Jackson (pictured) at 11.30am on Wednesday Jackson, an Australian Kelpie, found Ms Henry on his first ever search mission. The young dog was able to track the cancer patient within an hour of searching. Ms Henry was treated at the scene and taken back to Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. Lahore (AsiaNews) - Asia Bibi, the Christian woman acquitted of the blasphemy charge and the death sentence imposed on her in 2010, has left Pakistani territory, according to a source from the country's Foreign Ministry. "Asia Bibi has left the country, she is a free woman and has set out on her own journey" said the source, who did not specify the woman's destination. In recent months rumours from various sources has suggested Asia Bibi would be welcomed in Canada. Asia Bibi was acquitted of charges of blasphemy on October 31, 2018, after having spent nine years in prison, sentenced to death and awaiting an appeal process that was continually postponed due to fundamentalist groups' pressure and threats on the judges. Following the sentence that declared the Christian mother "not guilty", in November the Islamic radicals of the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (Tlp) party set the country on fire and contested her acquittal. To prevent the escalation of violence, the government of Imran Khan came to terms with the demonstrators and agreed to a revision of the Supreme Court verdict. Later, Asia was released but could not leave the country because on that agreement with the radicals. Meanwhile, Canada had already welcomed her daughters. The case of Asia Bibi has changed direction thanks to the work of the Supreme Court judges Saqib Nisar and Asif Saeed Khan Khosa who illustrated that the accusations and reconstructions of the woman's suspected blasphemy were false. Advertisement The Duchess of Cornwall got her first glimpse of baby Archie on someone else's mobile phone as she arrived in Leipzig with Prince Charles on the second day of their tour of Germany. During a walkabout in the city centre, Camilla was given a glimpse of the photograph on a mobile phone by a member of the travelling press pack. She smiled and said: 'Thank you for showing this to me.' The couple had arrived in the German city just before Prince Harry and Meghan unveiled their son to the world, and the huge crowds that turned out to greet them were keen to pass on their congratulations. Camilla was also given a huge teddy bear to give to the new royal baby, which bore a white t-shirt which said 'Baby Sussex' in the middle of a number of hearts. Camilla was also given a huge teddy bear to give to the new royal baby, which bore a white t-shirt which said 'Baby Sussex' in the middle of a number of hearts The couple had arrived in the German city just before Prince Harry and Meghan unveiled their son Archie to the world, and the huge crowds that turned out to greet them were keen to pass on their congratulations Prince Charles meets royal fans who had turned out in Leipzig to greet them on the second day of their royal tour of Germany The duchess thanked the woman in the crowd who told her 'Congratulations, this is for your new grandchild.' Charles and Camilla had alighted a train at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof station watched by huge crowds as they prepared to explore the city's cultural heritage through visits to churches and the city hall. They were greeted by train manager Christian Schulz before making their way through the biggest railway station in Europe. From there they went to St Thomas's Church in Leipzig, where they were greeted by hundreds of locals and they were welcomed by the Mayor of Leipzig, Burkhard Jung, and his wife Ayleena Young outside. Charles (left, waving to crowds, and right, as he is embraced by a well-wisher) and Camilla had alighted a train at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof station watched by huge crowds as they prepared to explore the city's cultural heritage through visits to churches and the city hall. Charles and Camilla were greeted by train manager Christian Schulz before making their way through the biggest railway station in Europe in Leipzig They then went for a tour of the church to applause from those inside. During their visit to St Thomas's Church, Charles and Camilla enjoyed a performance from a choir. The couple sat at the front of the church and watched on as the all-boy choir sang music by Johann Sebastian Bach. After the performance, which lasted for around 10 minutes, Charles and Camilla joined in the applause. The prince and the duchess then made their way to the chancel, where they saw Bach's Grave, and met the choristers and organ masters. Prince Charles and Camilla sit inside the St Thomas Church in Leipzig. They are due to explore the city Charles and Camilla arrived in Leipzig as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor (pictured) made his very first public appearance at a photocall alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan in the grounds of Windsor Castle The world has been given its first ever glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son Archie today as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe Yesterday Charles joked that he is 'collecting a rather large number of grandchildren' as he arrived in Berlin with Camilla for the first day of their tour. While visiting the Brandenburg Gate, Charles replied to one comment of 'Congratulations on the new grandchild', by quipping: 'Thank you, I'm collecting a rather large number of them'. Asked if he had seen the baby yet, Charles said: 'Not yet. How many grandchildren have you got? None yet? Just you wait.' Charles later told an audience in Berlin ties between Britain and Germany will remain close in the future, in a clear reference to ongoing uncertainty over Britain's looming departure from the European Union. 'Whatever the shape of our future relationship, and whatever is negotiated and agreed between governments and institutions, it is more clear for me than it has ever been that the bonds between us will and must endure. In the speech, in which he alternated between English and German, Charles did not mention Brexit by name, but dwelt on his family's own roots in the German aristocracy. 'We are friends and natural partners, bound by common experiences, interests and values, and our futures are deeply entwined.' The duchess meanwhile was given a onesie decorated with German art as well as a balloon with the words 'It's a boy' written on it. Camilla said: 'As soon as we return I will deliver it to them, direct from Germany. I'm sure they will be thrilled.' The mother of slain Iowa college student Mollie Tibbetts has spoken out on what would have been her daughter's 21st birthday, urging others to perform 21 acts of kindness. In an interview on Wednesday with Good Morning America, Laura Calderwood said Mollie's disappearance and murder last July in Brooklyn, Iowa, was 'indescribable' and 'took a higher power to get me through it'. Four weeks after Mollie disappeared while jogging, 24-year-old Cristhian Bahena Rivera led police to her body in a cornfield, and was charged with the murder. When federal agents said Rivera was a Mexican national present in the country illegally, the case sparked a firestorm of debate over immigration - but Calderwood hopes to shift news coverage of the case away from immigration. Laura Calderwood spoke out on Wednesday in her first television interview since her daughter was abducted and murdered last July in Brooklyn, Iowa Wednesday would have been Mollie Tibbetts' 21st birthday, and her mother is urging people to perform 21 acts of kindness in memory of the slain college student Illegal immigrant Cristhian Bahena Rivera, 24, is charged with the murder, but Mollie's family hopes to steer the media's coverage of the case away from immigration 'I don't want to feel anger, so I just don't spend a lot of time thinking about it at all,' Calderwood said of her daughter's abduction and stabbing death. She and her friends have started 'Mollie's Movement', a group dedicated to urging others to perform acts of kindness. On Wednesday, which would have been Mollie's birthday, the group is urging people to perform 21 acts of kindness. They are also encouraging others to donate $21 toward rebuilding the Brooklyn Opera House in their small city of 1,500. 'Mollie was very dedicated to theater arts,' said Calderwood, adding that she hopes 'it will start people thinking about paying kindness forward.' In December, Calderwood surprised observers with her own act of kindness, inviting an immigrant teen who used to live and work with her daughter's accused killer to come live with her. Mollie's parents and brother are seen during a press conference while she was missing. They have since invited a Mexican teen who knew the accused killer to live with them Mollie was studying psychology at the University of Iowa and was preparing for her sophomore year when she was abducted while jogging and stabbed to death Balloons are place along a gravel road outside of Deep River, Iowa last August after body of Mollie Tibbetts was found nearby Ulises Felix, 17, had been working in the country illegally at Yarabee Dairy Farms, where Rivera also worked, until coming to live with Calderwood, her husband and their teenage son. 'I knew I did the right thing, and I saw it from the day he moved in, Calderwood said. 'I just hope that we've set a good example and with all the kindness that was given to my family and to the community, keep that in mind and pay it forward,' she said. Soon after Rivera's arrest, President Donald Trump brought up Mollie's murder to make the case for restricting illegal immigration and building a southern border wall You heard about today with the illegal alien coming in very sadly from Mexico and you saw what happened to that incredible, beautiful young woman, Trump said. 'Should have never happened. Illegally in our country. Mollie's father Robert Tibbetts angrily denounced the sentiment and rejected the idea that Mollie's murder should be used to justify immigration restrictions. 'The Hispanic community are Iowans,' said, adding that he believed immigrants 'have the same values as Iowans' and are 'Iowans with better food.' Rivera (seen last year) won a request to have his trial moved to Woodbury County on the grounds that there would be a lower proportion of white people in the jury pool Rivera is charged with first-degree murder and is being held at Poweshiek County Jail pending a $5 million cash-only bond. He faces life in prison if convicted. In March, he won a request to have his trial moved to Woodbury County several hundred miles away in western Iowa, on the grounds that there would be a lower proportion of white people in the jury pool there. The trial is scheduled to begin in September. Calderwood said in the interview on Wednesday that she has not yet forgiven her daughter's accused killer. 'People have asked me "will you ever forgive him," she said, 'and I have gotten nowhere near that.' Dillon Webb (pictured), 23, was jailed after refusing to remove what police called an obscene sticker from his truck's window A Florida man was jailed after refusing to remove what authorities called an obscene sticker from his vehicle's window. Dillon Shane Webb, 23, was arrested Sunday and charged with misdemeanor counts of violating Florida's obscenity law and resisting an officer without violence, a Columbia County Sheriff's Office report said. He was taken into custody after refusing to take down an 'I eat a**' sticker from his truck window. Webb said that he plans to file a wrongful arrest lawsuit against the sheriff's office. 'I'm tired of police forces thinking they are above the Constitution, the Bill of Rights,' Webb said. A deputy stopped Webb in Lake City because of the truck's sticker crudely described a sexual appetite, the sheriff's report said. When told about the reason for the stop, Webb reportedly said: 'They're just words.' Webb said the deputy seemed angry from the start of the traffic stop. 'Like the whole time, he was just really rude,' Webb said. 'It just felt to me like his goal was to get me in jail.' Webb was taken into custody after refusing to take down an 'I eat a**' sticker from his truck (pictured, without the sticker) window The deputy said he asked Webb how a parent of a small child would explain the meaning of the words, and Webb said that 'it would be up to the parent'. Webb said he didn't imagine the sticker doing any serious damage to children. 'I've had parents drive by me with their kids taking pictures,' Web said. 'They point and laugh and giggle, and they go on about their day.' Webb said he had the sticker on his truck for less than a week before his traffic stop. He said he and several friends had all decided to get similar stickers as a group joke. 'I guess this cop just didn't find it funny, and he just thought he has to put me in jail,' Webb said. The deputy initially cited Webb for obscenity with a notice to appear in court, the report said. The deputy told Webb to alter the sticker to change the derogatory part, but Webb refused. 'I said I'm not removing any letters on my sticker because that's in violation of my First Amendment rights as a tax-paying citizen,' Webb said. The deputy then charged Webb with resisting and took him to jail. Webb was released several hours later on $2,500 bond. Webb (left) said that he plans to file a wrongful arrest lawsuit against the sheriff's office. 'I'm tired of police forces thinking they are above the Constitution, the Bill of Rights,' Webb said Webb's vehicle had been towed when he was arrested. He said the sticker was still in place when he retrieved the vehicle. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida released a statement Tuesday questioning why the sheriff's office was wasting resources on such a traffic stop. 'Shouldn't police officers spend their time serving and protecting communities and not pulling Floridians over for speech that is already protected by the First Amendment?' ACLU spokeswoman Casey Bruce-White said in a statement. 'Using the excuse that a child would see and ask questions about this particular bumper sticker is absurd.' The sheriff's office said the deputy had probable cause of a violation of criminal law and took action. 'If the law is faulty then the legislature can address that or if the law is unconstitutional then the judiciary will address it,' Sgt Murray Smith said, adding that the defendant will have his day in court. Webb said he wasn't even aware of the state's obscenity law, but after reviewing it since his arrest, he said it needs to be changed. He acknowledged that his sticker could be considered vulgar by some, but the law doesn't really define what that is. 'What's vulgar to me might not be vulgar to somebody else,' Webb said. Doug Pitt has stepped into his brother's shoes to reenact one of Brad's most famous movie scenes, only this time there's a more wholesome ending. In a two-minute commercial for Mother's Brewing Company, Pitt, 52, plays a version of Detective David Mills from Se7en. Looking similar to his elder brother Brad, 55, Pitt the younger, has the leather jacket, the goatee and even delivers the 'What's in the box?' line as he recreates the iconic final scene of Se7en. In a two-minute commercial for Mother's Brewing Company, Pitt, 52, (seen above) plays a version of Detective David Mills from Se7en Brother Brad as Detective David Mills in Se7en which was released in 1995 The commercial is gore free, gone is Gwyneth Paltrow's severed head, instead there is a six pack of beer. Pitt, who is referred to by his actual name in the ad, confronts a Mother's Brewing Company worker, rather than Kevin Spacey's, John Doe. The worker has helped himself to a couple of Doug's beers. Pitt delivers more family friendly lines, like 'shut the flip up, you piece of snot,' as the worker tells him how he couldn't resist drinking Pitt's beers. Pitt, who is referred to by his actual name in the ad, confronts a Mother's Brewing Company worker instead of a serial killer In the ad Pitt asks if his beer's OK while he contemplates whether to spray the worker with the hose he is holding 'I looked into your refrigerator, I tried to taste the beer of a simple man,' the worker says. 'It was crisp and refreshing so I took a souvenir, the whole six pack.' Pitt soon goes on to deliver the iconic line, 'what's in the box?' He also asks if his beer's OK while he contemplates whether to spray the worker with the hose he is holding. After giving him a good dousing, 'guess I need to go get another six pack,' Pitt says, before strolling away. Brad Pitt (right) with his brother Doug Pitt (left) at the Ocean's twelve film in Los Angeles on 8 December 2004 Six packs of the beer featured in the ad will be released in a few weeks time with a percentage of the purchase price donated to the non-profit set up by Doug Pitt, (pictured above) called Care to Learn The ad is promoting 'Doin' Good Orange Wheat Ale', one of the newest brews produced by Mother's Brewing Company. The decision to get Pitt on board has been a few years in the making. Anne Mauldin, the marketing director at Mother's Brewing Company said they got in touch with Doug Pitt through the non-profit organization he set up called 'Care to Learn.' 'Years ago, they wanted us to collaborate with him on a beer for his 50th birthday,' Mauldin, said, as reported by Vice. The ad is promoting 'Doin' Good Orange Wheat Ale', one of the newest brews produced by Mother's Brewing Company Goodwill Ambassador Doug Pitt speaks at the Tanzania Education Trust New York Gala hosted by President Jakaya Kikwete of the United Republic of Tanzania at Plaza Athenee on April 19, 2010 in New York City 'That didn't happen, but we stayed in touch and came up with this project that gave a portion of proceeds back to our community. They were the first choice of a local charity since we've been chatting with him about making a beer for about two years,' she added. Six packs of the new beer will soon be released with a percentage of the purchase price donated to Pitt's charity. 'Care to Learn' was founded by Pitt 10 years ago for school kids who need financial help in the areas of 'health, hunger, and hygiene.' Pitt is no stranger to wider charity work. April saw him visiting Tanzania checking out sites for wells to bring clean water to local communities. Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Wednesday that Congress should find Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress for with holding the unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report. 'Yes, I think that the attorney general should be held in contempt,' she said during a Washington Post interview. 'This contempt is about the withholding of the Mueller report in an unredactive way,' she added. Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Congress should find Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress Democrats are angry Attorney General Bill Barr is with holding the full version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report The House Judiciary Committee meets Wednesday morning to hold a formal vote on whether or not to find the attorney general in contempt. Given the Democratic majority on the panel, the contempt citation is expected to pass and matter will likely move to the courts. Barr declined to show up for a hearing with the committee last week. Pelosi said the attorney general skipping out on his time before lawmakers is not the solo reason he should be held in contempt. 'Now that doesn't include is not showing up to testify before the House Judiciary Committee,' she said. 'It doesn't include a misrepresenting withholding the truth from the Congress, some would call that lying. I don't like that word, but you can't do that - you cannot lie under oath to Congress because you're lying under oath to the American people. So that's a whole other thing but, for the purpose of the course we're on right now, in terms of withholding information: the unredacted version of the Mueller report for the American people to see and to know.' Late Tuesday, the Justice Department said it would ask President Donald Trump to invoke executive privilege in order to withhold the unredacted Mueller report from Congress - which would offer Barr protection even as it would provoke the committee into voting for contempt. 'In the face of the Committee's threatened contempt vote, the Attorney General will be compelled to request that the President invoke executive privilege with respect to the materials subject to the subpoena,' assistant attorney general Stephen Boyd wrote in a letter to Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler. House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said Wednesday morning the committee has 'no choice' but to proceed with the contempt vote 'I hereby request that the committee hold the subpoena in abeyance and delay any vote on whether to recommend a citation of contempt for noncompliance with the subpoena, pending the president's determination of this question,' he added. Nadler slammed the Justice Department for breaking off 'good faith negotiations' to invoke such privilege. 'This kind of obstruction is dangerous,' Nadler said in a statement Tuesday. 'he Department's decision reflects President Trump's blanket defiance of Congress's constitutionally mandated duties.' He said the committee has no choice but to proceed with the vote. 'Attorney General Barr has made the entire Justice Department an agency for enabling the president to defy the law, to defy and kind of accountability and to act as a monarch,' he said Wednesday morning on CNN's 'New Day,' adding that 'we have no choice' but to proceed with the vote. The Justice Department, Nadler said, has 'made it twice as necessary to proceed with this contempt, because you cannot have a government in which the president can conceal all information about his own wrongdoing and about anything else.' And Trump 'wants to make himself a king, and Congress cannot permit that, nor can the American people abide that,' he added. Pelosi was asked if Barr should be impeached. 'Nothing is ever off the table,' she responded but added the situation needs to work its way through the committee process before any stronger steps are taken. A contempt citation could lead to a civil court case against Barr, raising the possibility of fines and even imprisonment for failure to comply. Democrats want the full, unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said the Russia report was 'case closed' Pelosi jokingly reminded people there is a jail in the basement of the Capitol but added: 'If we were arresting all the people in the administration we would have an overcrowded jail situation and I'm not for that.' Barr released a redacted version of the report last month but the Democrats also want to see the full report and underlying evidence that informs it. They formally issued a subpoena for it but the Justice Department has not handed it over, arguing the grand jury evidence Democrats want should be with held to protect those investigations. 'The attorney general's failure to comply with our subpoena ... leaves us no choice but to initiate contempt proceedings,' Nadler said in a statement last week. Republicans reject Nadler's efforts as political theater, which they say is intended to satisfy the Democrats' voters. Also on Tuesday, the White House invoked executive privilege to block former White House Counsel Don McGahn from complying with Democrats' subpoena for him to turn over documents related to the Russia investigation. White House Counsel Pat Cipollone says the man who formerly held his position does not have the legal rights to the documents Democrats in Congress are demanding he produce. McGahn was a star witness in Mueller's probe. The White House also invoked executive privilege to block former White House Counsel Don McGahn from testifying Pelosi declined to say if McGahn should also be held in contempt, saying Congress should wait and see what happens. Nadler's committee views the full Mueller report as vital to its own corruption and obstruction of justice investigation of Trump. The chairs of five other House committees investigating the president have also called for its release. The Mueller report details extensive contacts between Trump's 2016 campaign and Moscow, but did not find that there was a conspiracy between Moscow and the campaign. The report also describes actions Trump took to try to impede Mueller's investigation. If lawmakers established that Trump obstructed justice by seeking to impede Mueller, Nadler's panel could move to impeachment proceedings against the president for high crimes and misdemeanors. The White House has declared the matter closed and Trump has repeatedly pointed out the report found no collusion. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders argued Tuesday the investigation is 'case closed.' 'We consider this to be a case closed and we're moving forward to do the work of the American people,' Sanders told ABC News' 'The Investigation' podcast. 'This is nothing more than a big dog-and-pony show.' Former FBI Director James Comey in a Wednesday interview rejected Attorney General William Barr's explanation for his claim Donald Trump did not obstruct justice. Barr said Trump acted out because he was 'frustrated' and 'angry' about the investigation into crimes he knew he did not commit. His intent is irrelevant, Comey said in an interview on 'CBS This Morning,' where he was promoting his memoir. 'I don't think it's a fair summary of the evidence. That may be his motive, but a whole lot of people commit crimes in this country because they're frustrated and they're angry,' Comey asserted. 'He may have a motive to push something away because it embarrasses him, or irritates him, that's actually not the key question.' Former FBI Director James Comey rejected Attorney General William Barr's claims Wednesday that Donald Trump did not obstruct justice because he was 'frustrated' and 'angry' about the investigation into crimes he knew he did not commit Comey also shot down claims from Barr and the president that the FBI may have spied on Trump's campaign. 'I have no idea what he's talking about. The FBI doesn't spy. The FBI investigates,' he said. Comey said the FBI had cause to investigate the GOP candidate's campaign and the word spy was incorrect. 'The Republicans need to breathe into a paper bag,' he said. The former law enforcement official said the GOP would be 'screaming' for the FBI to investigate if the same predicate had been true of a Democrat. 'We should have been fired if we didn't investigate this,' he contended. He said Barr's claim that the FBI spied 'hurts our ability to be trusted in courtrooms and in doorways, so that's a very bad thing,' and the law enforcement official should know better. Comey also contended that Barr's letter to Congress summarizing Mueller's work was 'misleading' and it was an 'adequate' aggregation of the special counsel report. He specifically pointed to Barr's suggestion that Mueller left it to him to rule on obstruction. 'That's not what Mueller did. Mueller laid it out and signaled to a future prosecutor: after this individual's out of office, you ought to take a serious look at charging him,' he said. Mueller did not bring obstruction of justice charges against Trump, and Comey said he interpreted it to be in response to Justice Department guidelines that say you cannot indict a sitting president. Barr said at a news conference hours before he made a redacted version of the report public that he determined Trump did not obstruct justice, because the president did not commit the underlying crime of collusuion 'And reasoned that if I cant indict a sitting president, I ought not to accuse him of a crime, because that wouldn't be fair. Given that I can't clear him, I'll just lay out the evidence for a future prosecutor and for Congress,' Comey said. He encouraged all Americans to read the Mueller report: 'What he complied is really concerning, especially if you look at those ten episodes together.' Barr said at a news conference hours before he made a redacted version of the report public that he determined Trump did not obstruct justice, because he did not commit the underlying crime. 'And as the Special Counsels report acknowledges, there is substantial evidence to show that the president was frustrated and angered by a sincere belief that the investigation was undermining his presidency, propelled by his political opponents, and fueled by illegal leaks,' Barr said instead. Barr was accused of excusing inappropriate and possibly criminal conduct, on behalf of the president who appointed him, in a manner that was not consistent with the law. Trump's firing of Comey in May of 2017 was one of the incidents Mueller reviewed as potential obstruction of justice. The ex-FBI director tells his side of the story in his book, 'A Higher Loyalty.' 'No I wasn't mad, I was actually kind of depressed,' he said Wednesday of the episode. He said he was surprised to see that accomplished people he knew were acting in ways that 'were shocking' and decided to speak out after his abrupt and forced departure. 'I've seen him wrap people in this web of deception and delusion. And I've seen it shape them,' he said. 'When you sit with him, hell just tell lies, where he's not asking for your reaction to it.' He said, 'If you dont jump in and interrupt and contradict the president, you feel like youve kind of agreed with him. And these lies wash over you, over and over again.' U.S. President Donald Trump arrives at an event to celebrate the anniversary of first lady Melania Trump's 'Be Best' initiative in the Rose Garden at the White House on Tuesday Then, at a Cabinet meeting everyone praises the leader, he added. 'And then the next thing you know, he's attacking the institution you represent ... And you find yourself trapped.' Yet, he said it remains his believe that America will come out of the Trump presidency just fine. 'Yes, because American history shows us that we always have periods of retreat and pain after periods of tremendous progress, and we recover, because there's a ballast in America, and that's our values. The great middle of America represents our values. 'And they stir, every so often, And I hope they're stirring now. I see signs of it, and I hope they're going to vote their values,' he said on CBS. Trump says it's time to move past the Mueller probe. Comey said he too believes it is time to move on, too. 'It's time to move on to the most important things we do: which is vote to decide who should represent us as President of the United States,' he said in final jab at Trump. Three women from Georgia thought they had bagged a bargain when they bought a box of Legos in a post office auction during a shopping trip to Charleston, South Carolina. The unsuspecting trio drove the 'toys' back to Statesboro, Georgia, and gifted them to a child. The youngster opened the box and found three pounds of methamphetamine, worth around $40,000. Three Georgia women unsuspectingly committed a felony when they bought $40k worth in meth disguised as a box of Lego in Charleston, South Carolina The women, who had unwittingly committed a felony, turned over the drugs to the local sheriff's office and Drug Enforcement Administration agents. Since they were not aware of the meth, they were not held responsible, authorities said. Bulloch County Sheriffs Investigator Jim Riggs told The Statesboro Herald the child was probably very disappointed, but whoever was intended to receive the shipment was likely even more frustrated. Authorities believe the drug dealer intentionally mailed the contraband to the wrong address or an empty home, hoping to have someone pick it up. But the US Postal Service will often leave packages with a neighbor or take them back rather than deliver them to an abandoned house. The Postal Service will then auction off unclaimed packages, 'sort of like Storage Wars', Riggs said. DEA agents believe this is how the meth ended up in a Lego box in the toy section of the consignment store. Police believe the drug dealer shipped the contraband, disguised as a box of Lego (file image), to the wrong address. The US Postal Service then auctioned off the unclaimed package to the unwitting women South Carolina had the second-highest number of clandestine meth labs reported in the US in 2016, according to the annual DEA threat assessment report. Law enforcement agencies are increasingly dedicating extra resources to fight the addictive drug that ruins lives and ravages communities. 'Meth is a major threat in South Carolina right now,' Robert Evans, a Drug Enforcement Agency agent and spokesman based in Atlanta, told the Independent Mail. A council minibus driver was sacked after she was caught racing over a level crossing just before the barriers came down - and narrowly avoided side-swiping the car in front. Deena Tsokallis, 40, was behind the wheel of the council bus - used to ferry the elderly, and vulnerable children and adults - when she was caught up in a queue of traffic at a level crossing in Enfield, north London. But as the red warning lights began to flash, rather than stop, she accelerated on the inside of the queue before pulling in and forcing a Smart car into the path of oncoming traffic. Moments later, the barriers came down as Tsokallis mounted the pavement while undertaking the smaller car. It is not known whether she had any passengers on board at the time. Council minibus driver Deena Tsokallis approaches the level crossing in Enfield, north London, in the large vehicle (left) used to transport the elderly, and vulnerable children and adults As the warning lights flash at the crossing at Enfield Lock station, the 40-year-old council driver suddenly accelerates and mounts the pavement Tsokallis, who worked for Enfield Council, initially denied dangerous driving by jumping the level crossing at Enfield Lock station last February. When she appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court last Monday, however, she changed her plea to guilty. Tsokallis of Enfield was handed a 15-month suspended prison sentence, ordered to undertake 200 hours of unpaid work and banned from the roads for three years. As she pulls into the lane, she forces a Smart car driver into the path of oncoming traffic. It is not known if any passengers were onboard the minibus at the time Tsokallis of Enfield has been handed a 15-month suspended prison sentence, ordered to undertake 200 hours of unpaid work and banned from the roads for three years PC Savio Capodici from British Transport Police, said: 'Thanks to the overwhelming evidence incriminating Tsokallis's downright dangerous behaviour, she was forced to change her plea to guilty in the eleventh hour. 'This was a particularly protracted case and could have been resolved far sooner had she owned up to her behaviour. 'I thoroughly welcome this sentence and hope it sends a strong deterrent to those considering skipping over level crossings. 'We'll continue to prosecute those who ignore our repeated warnings and ensure that tough sentences are handed to those who put themselves and others in danger of death or serious injury.' Allan Spence, Network Rail's head of public and passenger safety, said: 'We work hard to keep the railway safe but sadly there remains a lack of awareness among drivers around how dangerous level crossings can be. 'We have invested over 200million to improve level crossing safety across Britain, but we also need drivers and pedestrians to pay attention to warnings at level crossings. 'The flashing red lights are a clear instruction to stop. Every time. Nothing is worth risking your life over just to save a few moments of time.' A councilman in a mostly white Georgia town who drew nationwide scorn for his comments on interracial marriage says he's considering stepping down from his position. City Council member Jim Cleveland said he is praying about the decision, though some townspeople have urged him to stay on the council in Hoschton, he said Wednesday. 'I'm getting "don't step down, hang in there, everything's going to be okay,"' he said. Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly also faces calls for her resignation. In documents released by the city, Councilwoman Hope Weeks wrote that the mayor told her they had a strong candidate for the city administrator job 'but he was black and we don't have a big black population and she just didn't think Hoschton was ready for that'. Hoschton City Councilman Jim Cleveland said he's considering stepping down from his position. Cleveland drew furious responses by some townspeople and others when he said opposes interracial marriage because he's a Christian The idea 'makes my blood boil because that's just not the way a Christian is supposed to live' and that a lesson from the church is to 'keep your races pure,' Cleveland said Mayor Kenerly has said she doesn't recall saying that. Messages left for the mayor at city hall Wednesday were not immediately returned. Cleveland drew furious responses by some townspeople and others when he told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution he opposes interracial marriage because he's a Christian. The idea 'makes my blood boil because that's just not the way a Christian is supposed to live' and that a lesson from the church is to 'keep your races pure,' he's told the newspaper. 'This all goes back to when I was a kid and I was brought up in the South - rural Georgia - and it was preached in the church,' he said on Wednesday. He thinks his comments are being taken the wrong way, he said, and that he wants to apologize for 'anything I've said that offended anybody.' 'I am much more tolerant now than I used to be,' he said in the interview. 'When I see a black couple now, I say 'okay, that's the way of the times.' I have never ever done anything vicious, cruel, ugly to a black person because of any of my beliefs.' Hoschton Mayor Theresa Kenerly (pictured) also faces calls for her resignation In documents released by the city, Councilwoman Hope Weeks (pictured) wrote that the mayor told her they had a strong candidate for the city administrator job 'but he was black and we don't have a big black population and she just didn't think Hoschton was ready for that' Faith leaders in the town planned a prayer vigil for Wednesday. The city's website was offline Wednesday, with a message saying it was undergoing some work. Cleveland, a former AT&T manager who has been on the council for about a decade, said Wednesday that he's weighing the effect of a possible resignation. If there are multiple resignations among the mayor and city council, he worries the city would be unable to carry on its official business. 'I've done so much for the city,' he said, adding that he's paid $300 a year and donates all of it back to the city so it can be used for Christmas bonuses for employees. He's also spent hundreds of hours over the years renovating and repairing city buildings, he said. But in recent days, the fallout from his comments about racial issues seems to have gotten progressively worse. 'The more I talk to anybody, it seems like the worse everything gets,' he said. Residents of Hoschton protested on Monday and called for both politicians to resign. One woman was seen holding a sign that read: 'Hoschton will not tolerate racism.' Another sign read: 'Resign Kenerly & Cleveland. We don't want you!' Residents of Hoschton protested on Monday and called for both politicians to resign Hoschton resident Mary Morrison spoke out during a city council meeting at the Hoschton Historic Train Depot in Hoschton on Monday Authorities in the Dominican Republic rescued a boy who was found chained to a wall because his parents could no longer care for him. Officials with the National Children's Council [CONANI] were forced to take action after they visited a residence in the province of Monte Plata and saw the barefooted five-year-old with a chain wrapped around his ankle. According to reports by Univision and Dominican television station Telemicro, the boy, whose name not provided because he is a minor, suffers from mental illness and has spent four years chained up. SEE VIDEO BELOW The National Children's Council in the Dominican Republic came to the aid of a five-year-old boy (pictured) who spent about four years chained to a wall because he suffered from mental illness. The child's mother told Univision and Dominican television station Telemicro that her son also suffers from epilepsy Authorities visited home in the Dominican province Monte Plata and removed a five-year-old who was found with a chain (pictured) that was wrapped around his ankle and attached to a wall. The boy is currently receiving care for his mental illness A child in the Dominican Republic had spent almost four years chained to a wall because his parents said they couldn't control him. Their house is pictured Agents from the CONANI office in Monte Plata removed the child from the home and placed him in a children's shelter. The state is now providing him with the correct medical treatment. The boy's unemployed mother, Senobia Mariano, said her son also suffers from epilepsy. Four years ago she divorced her child's 85-year-old father, Luis Frias. She then became romantically involved with another man, who allegedly beat her and struck her with a machete six times, leaving one side of her body almost immobile. Senobia Mariano (left) and Luis Frias (right) are the parents of a five-year-old boy who was found bound to a chain inside their home in Monte Plata, Dominican Republic 'I can barely care for him. I am taking care of him because I give him away, Mariano told Telemicro. 'I need to be given assistance based on my problem.' CONANI said if the family cannot prove that they are able to care for the boy, he could be put up for adoption. Amidst tears, Frias said the family had no other option but to keep his son chained out of fear that he would harm himself. Just a couple of months ago, the boy wandered out of the family's wooden shack and walked up a road before he attempted to jump off a bridge. Fortunately, a woman passing by stopped him. In the first three months of 2019, 241 Chinese were detained by Cambodian authorities, more than the Vietnamese, Thais, South Koreans and Americans. Chinese nationals also top the list of victims of offences as well. The issue is that Chinese nationals boast of relations with the Royal Government, one official said. For activist, Chinese nationals should be monitored to see if they respect our traditions and customs, and Cambodian law. Phnom Penh (AsiaNews) In the first three months of this year, Cambodian authorities intensified their crackdown against crime. Among foreigners, people from China rank first in terms of offences committed in the country, more than Vietnamese, Thais, South Koreans and Americans, this according to an Interior Ministry report released yesterday. During the first quarter of this year actually from 20 December 2018 to 19 March 2019 foreigners committed 82 offences across the capital and 11 provinces. A total of 341 people from 20 countries were taken into custody in connection with some 20 types of offences. In all, 241 Chinese nationals were detained, followed by Vietnamese (49), Thais (926), South Koreans (4) and Americans (3). The report also notes that 167 foreigners were victims of the same offences across the capital and 14 provinces for the same period. In total there were 211 victims from 35 nationalities, with Chinese nationals suffering the most at 98, followed by French (12), English (11), Germans (9), and Americans (7). The offences involve drug dealing, sexual harassment, illegal marriages, the overstaying of visas and so on. The majority of victims were foreigners who suffered from accidents, illnesses, suicide and traffic accidents, the report says. For ORussey I commune police chief Thong Mardy, Chinese nationals who come dont seek to learn our laws. What is more, Chinese nationals who come here were mostly criminals in China who have poor track records. And they commit offences . . . Were we to implement our countrys legal measures, thered be no pardons for them." The issue is that Chinese nationals boast of relations with the Royal Government of Cambodia and claim they are very intimate. These are personal views, not common ones. If our government recognised the Sino-Cambodian friendship ties, they would not be allowed to come to our country in such an anarchic manner, he added. Civil society groups have long criticised the administration for its alleged negligence towards the increasing inflow of Chinese nationals into Cambodia and have called on the authorities to take appropriate steps. In particular, activists blame the government for relying too much on foreign investments and tourism for the economic progress of the Kingdom. The government should regard Chinese nationals as a group who are to be placed under administrative control and monitored for various offences, said San Chey, executive director of Affiliated Network for Social Accountability. We insist that there be inspections of their comings and goings, their residences and their workplaces to ensure that they respect our traditions and customs, and Cambodian law." Kirsty Boden (pictured) from Loxton, in the Riverland region of South Australia, bravely ran towards the terror attack to help others The heartbroken family of a woman who selflessly ran towards the London Bridge terrorist attack in a desperate bid to save lives have paid tribute to the 'brave and beautiful' nurse. In July 2017, three knife-wielding terrorists mowed down dozens of victims on the landmark London bridge before using 30cm ceramic kitchen knives to stab innocent members of the public - in a callous attack which took eight people's lives. Kirsty Boden from Loxton, in the Riverland region of South Australia, had been out for dinner with friends when she heard the sound of the terrorist's white van crash, an inquest into the terrorist attack at London's Central Criminal Court heard on Wednesday. The inquest, which is expected to last 10 weeks, will look into the deaths of the victims, safety mistakes and intelligence failures. Chief Coroner Judge Mark Lucraft QC said the 28-year-old nurse had run towards the noise so she could assist anyone who was injured - but instead she was tragically stabbed to death. Ms Boden's shattered family broke their silence for the first time and said there was a hole in their hearts 'that will never heal', The Advertiser reported. During the hearing, Ms Boden's father, Ken Boden, paid tribute to his 'beautiful and amazing' daughter. Mr Hodder (pictured right) said Ms Boden's (pictured left) decision to put herself in danger in order to help others was 'an extension of how she lived her life' Ms Boden's (pictured) heartbroken family have paid tribute to the 'brave and beautiful' nurse who put herself in danger in order to save the lives of others He said his daughter was 'always willing to lend a hand', in a statement he read out to the court on behalf of his wife Christina, son Chris, and Ms Boden's fiance James Hodder. In a touching tribute Mr Boden spoke of how he missed his 'beautiful, independent, adventurous, brave' daughter 'every second of the day'. Mr Boden said he would speak to his daughter, a senior nurse at Guy's Hospital in London, through Skype on Sundays. Mr Boden also reminisced fondly about the time they had paid a trip to London to visit their 'amazing girl' and spoke of how Ms Boden had shown them around the city. Mr Hodder, who had first met Ms Boden when they lived together in a London house share, said her decision to put herself in danger in order to help others was 'an extension of how she lived her life'. The three terrorists, Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30 and Youssef Zaghba, 22, were later shot dead by armed police Ms Boden (pictured) has been awarded an Australian Bravery Award and the Queen's Commendation for Bravery Mr Hodder, from Britain, added the family were 'so unspeakably proud' of Mr Boden and they are in 'awe of her bravery'. 'To Kirsty it wouldn't have seemed brave, she loved people and lived her life helping others. To Kirsty her actions that night would have just been an extension of how she lived her life,' he said. 'We are so unspeakably proud of her and not a day goes by that we are not in awe of her bravery that night.' Ms Boden has been awarded an Australian Bravery Award and the Queen's Commendation for Bravery for her amazingly brave actions that night. Sara Zelenak, 21, from Brisbane who worked as an au pair was also killed in the terror attack. The attack, undertaken by three perpetrators - Khuram Butt, 27, Rachid Redouane, 30 and Youssef Zaghba, 22 - lasted less than 10 minutes. The three terrorists, who wore fake explosive devices, were later shot dead by police. The inquest continues. A father drugged his two sons after stabbing their mother to death in her bed, an inquest has heard. Laura Cecilia Navarrete De Figueira, 47, was found with stab wounds at her home in south-west London at around 6pm on March 5 2018. The bodies of her two young sons, Claudio, 10, and Joaquin, seven, as well as her husband Adelino Gabriel Figueira de Faria, 57, were found at Beachy Head, just one hour earlier. Today West London Coroner's Court heard that traces of a sedative which should only be prescribed to adults, had been present in both children and their mother. The body of Claudio and Joaquin was found with their father Adelino Gabriel Figueira at Beachy Head (pictured again) Forensic officers pictured at the property in south-west London last year, after Laura Cecilia Navarrete De Figueira's body was found there A police officer (left) and a forensics officer (right) pictured outside the property last year following the discovery of a body Forensic pathologist Charlotte Randall said the drug was found in both of the 'previously fit and healthy boys'. She added that it was not possible to say whether or not the boys had jumped, had fallen from the cliff, or had been pushed more that 200ft above where their bodies were found. One witness, who had been walking her dogs on the afternoon of March 5, said she had seen a male figure holding the hands of two young boys as they walked away from her. In a statement read by coroner Sean Cummings, Judith Wells said: 'They seemed to be walking very slowly, almost plodding along. The map above shows the distance between the property in Twickenham and the beach which sits between Eastbourne and Seaford 'The children looked tired, they were walking in a reluctant manner - not the way you would expect a child to walk unless they were tired.' She added: 'The three of them were walking very slowly up the hill and I remember thinking that the children did not look like they were having a lot of fun.' A photographer later discovered the bodies of the father and his sons, as he descended the hill. It comes as an inquest heard yesterday that a bereavement counsellor with mental health problems killed both herself and her son amid a family court custody battle at the same beach. Forensic officers pictured at the property in south-west London last year The bodies of Cheryl and Leo Tompsett, five, were found at Beachy Head near Eastbourne on June 18 last year The bodies of Cheryl and Leo Tompsett, five, were found at Beachy Head near Eastbourne on June 18 last year. The inquest today was told that the boys' mother, Mrs Figueira, was killed in her bed either late on March 4 or early on March 5. Officers at the family home in Twickenham discovered the body in the master bedroom. She had been lying on her back on the bed and a large amount of blood had been around her neck and chest. Wounds on her hands and fingers suggested she had attempted to fight back, although it was not clear if the attack happened when she was awake. Bloodstained clothes and a knife, which had been put through a dishwasher cycle and may have been the weapon, were later discovered at the house, the inquest was told. The home address in Twickenham where the body of Laura Cecillia Nvarette de Figueria was found Quoting from a post-mortem report from consultant forensic pathologist Dr Olaf Biedrzycki, Mr Cummings said that injuries at this point could be considered as indication of so-called defensive wounds. 'For at least the initial part of the attack, the deceased was awake and alert as the attack occurred and made attempts to defend herself.' Mrs Figueira suffered more than 60 wounds and Detective Sergeant Matt Flynn, leading the investigation for the Metropolitan Police, said the evidence showed the involvement of Mr Figueira de Faria in her murder and there was no evidence of a pact. The coroner ruled that all three members of the family were killed unlawfully, calling the attack on Mrs Figueira 'particularly savage and brutal'. A separate inquest was then opened for Mr Figueira de Faria. Notes were found on the downstairs dining room table which revealed his despair and anguish with the world, while acquaintances recalled that he had seemed depressed leading up to his death. There was no evidence that the couple, who moved to London in November 2015 from Venezuela, had worked during their time in the UK, he said, adding that their rental tenancy was due to be imminently renewed. He agreed that the family had potentially reached a 'pinch-point' in their finances, but said they could not find one specific reason for what had taken place. The boys were said to be happy and popular children, and there was no concern for their welfare. Mr Cummings added that the deaths of the boys and their mother were an 'inexplicable puzzle'. Concluding that Mr Figueira de Faria died by suicide, Mr Cummings said: 'This is a terribly sad case and I think DS Flynn put it very well when he said that Adelino simply could not see a way forward, and the family have my sincere condolences.' A car passenger in China has been killed after a flying piece of metal debris smashed through the windscreen at a high speed as the car travelled on a highway. The large piece of iron hit a passenger in the head and the victim died in the hospital hours later, according to police. The metal part was launched into the air after being driven over by another car at the front. Police said the heavy chunk had fallen onto the expressway from a lorry. The large piece of iron flies through the air at a high speed before striking the windscreen The passenger on the front row was killed in the freak accident in Xi'an late last month The horrific accident took place in Xi'an in north-west China's Shaanxi Province on April 26, said Xi'an Expressway Police in an online statement. Footage released by police shows a black saloon travelling on the Xi'an Ring Expressway when it drove over the piece of metal, which was launched into the air. The metal flew at high speed towards the second vehicle, a white saloon, which was about 30 feet away. The metal part is launched into the air after a car in front of the victim's car drover over it Police officer Zhou Yuchi said the metal debris had fallen from a blue lorry earlier in the day The driver of the second car was unable to brake or swerve out the way as the debris struck the windscreen. Another video, taken by the rare dashcam in the first vehicle, shows the metal object creating a large hole in the second car's windscreen, causing the driver to slow down and pull over. According to the police, the victim in the front passenger seat was struck in the head. The passenger was taken to the hospital and declared dead the same night after emergency treatment failed. Police officer Zhou Yuchi said the metal debris had fallen from a blue lorry earlier in the day. It was said to be a part of the lorry's tailgate. The vehicle has since been seized as police carry out further investigation. Former White House chief of staff John Kelly said on Tuesday that those members of President Donald Trump's family who were also serving as staff in the White House needed to be 'dealt with.' When asked on Bloomberg Television's 'The David Rubenstein Show' if it was complicated to have the president's family working in the White House, Kelly said, 'They were an influence that has to be dealt with.' Kelly didn't mention any family members that were particularly difficult to deal with in the interview, but did exclude First Lady Melania Trump from his classification. 'By no means do I mean Mrs. Trump -- the first lady's a wonderful person,' Kelly said. Kelly, who served as chief of staff in the Trump administration from July 2017 to January 2019, reportedly had a long-running frustration with the adviser roles of the president's eldest daughter, Ivanka Trump, and her husband, Jared Kushner. Previous reports indicated the relationship between Kelly and Trump's family members became uncomfortable due to the high frequency of their clashes. John Kelly said President Donald Trump's family members were an issue and 'influence' that had to be 'dealt with' during his time as White House chief of staff Although Kelly didn't mention any particular family member by name, reports indicated he had frequent clashes with Trump's eldest daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner Kelly excluded First Lady Melania Trump from his complaints over family influence. 'By no means do I mean Mrs. Trump -- the first lady's a wonderful person,' Kelly said There is also a continuing controversy over Trump's daughter and son-in-law's security clearances. Several reports indicated that Trump pushed senior advisers, including Kelly, to grant Ivanka and Jared top security clearances against the recommendation of career officials. The White House personnel security office determines which White House aides are granted security clearances after the FBI conducts a background check. The office expressed concern over granting Ivanka and Jared such clearances. Trump then bypassed the office's concerns and asked Kelly and then-White House Counsel Don McGahn to authorize the clearances, according to reports. When they refused, Trump granted the clearances himself. Congressional Democrats are now investigating whether Trump ordered Kelly to grant them the clearances. Ivanka has denied that her father did not play a role in granting her, or her husband's, security clearances. 'The president had no involvement pertaining to my clearance or my husband's clearance,' Ivanka claimed in a February interview with ABC's 'The View.' Jared and Ivanka, both senior advisers to Trump, have come under fire for how they were granted security clearances. Congressional Democrats are investigating if Trump directed Kelly to grant the couple's security clearances after officials in the White House personnel security office recommended against it Kelly said he felt he 'was able to staff a president' in a way that united staff in support of Trump Acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney took over after Kelly left at the beginning of this year. He is critical of Kelly's tenure in the position and says he felt the former Marine Corps general complained too much about working for Trump Kelly, a retired Marine Corps general, said in his Bloomberg interview that serving as Trump's chief of staff was one of the hardest jobs he has ever had. In his move from secretary of Homeland Security to chief of staff, Kelly's first order of business was to get rid of some 'very disruptive' people in the West Wing. One of Kelly's first orders of business after taking the position was asking then-White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci to resign, after he only served in the position for 10 days. 'I was able to staff a president the way I think a president should be staffed,' Kelly said, adding he felt he was able to unite the White House staff to support Trump with staff that had 'intense personal ambition.' Acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney took over after Kelly's departure at the start of this year. Mulvaney, who's official title is still Director of the Office of Management and Budget, has been critical of Kelly's time as chief of staff. He claims that Kelly depressed morale by complaining about the difficulty of working for Trump. Mulvaney said last week the press and communications strategy in the White House was not to fire anyone, but instead hire more staffers that are unafraid to defend Trump and his policies on TV and in public. 'We'll spend a little more time being proactive, and a little less time being reactive,' Mulvaney told Politico. An aspiring Marine student and his friends are being hailed as heroes for tackling one of the two shooters that stormed their Colorado high school classroom - costing one of the brave students their life. Brendan Bialy, a senior at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver who wants to join the Marine Corps, jumped into action along with two friends when one of the shooters - revealed as Devon Erickson, 18, and an unidentified juvenile female - pulled a gun on Tuesday afternoon. One of the two brandished the weapon from a guitar case, ready to release a hail of bullets, when they were bombarded by the students. Kendrick Castillo, 18, was shot in the chest as he lunged in front of the shooter, according to a classmate. The senior, who was set to graduate in three days, died from his wounds on Tuesday afternoon. As the trio tackled the assailant, students frantically hid under their desks and ran to safety. Some tended to the wounded Castillo by putting pressure on his chest to stop the bleeding. Brendan Bialy, an aspiring Marine and senior at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver, bravely tackled down the gunmen that stormed his classroom along with two other friends Kendrick Castillo, 18, was shot in the chest as he bravely lunged in front of the shooter along with Bialy. The senior, who was set to graduate in three days, died from his wounds on Tuesday Brad Bialy, Brendan's father, said his son and friends were able to subdue and disarm the shooter. He told the New York Times 'his son and two friends tried to tackle the gunman but one of the boys was shot in the chest'. Bialy says Brendan wants to join the Marine Corps after graduating. The Douglas County sheriff said 'very heroic things took place' inside the school as the shooting unfolded.' 'We are deeply saddened for the victims, families, friends and community on this tragic day,' the Bialy family said in an emailed statement issued by lawyer Mark L. Bryant. 'We'd like to commend the immediate response of law enforcement and assure all we are strong with the love of our families, community, friends and every one sending concern, wishes, and strength. We will persevere,' the statement added. The two suspect shooters Devon Erickson, 18, (above) and a juvenile female are in police custody Shots were fired at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver at 1.53pm Tuesday afternoon Students pictured evacuating the school after the shooting broke out on Tuesday Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, which occurred just seven miles from the scene of the deadly 1999 Columbine High School massacre. Bialy's classmate Nui Giasolli praised and thanked him for his bravery. Speaking on the Today show on Wednesday morning she said Brendan, Castillo and their friend gave 'all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape'. The two suspect shooters Erickson and the juvenile female who authorities previously identified as a boy and is in the process of transitioning are in police custody. They opened fire at the school at 1.53pm Tuesday afternoon. Nine students suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting and three of them remain in intensive care in hospital. Five had been discharged from the hospital by Wednesday morning. Castillo was the sole fatality. Classmate Nui Giasolli hailed Brendan Bialy (above) and Kendrick Castillo as heroes for taking down the shooter saying they gave 'all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape' Nine students suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting and three of them remain in intensive care in hospital and one died from their wounds Police pictured at the scene of the shooting that left one dead and injured eight others 'We know two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations,' Sheriff Tony Spurlock of Douglas County said at a news conference Wednesday morning. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, which occurred just seven miles from the scene of the deadly 1999 Columbine High School massacre. STEM School Highlands Ranch teaches kindergarten through 12th grade and has about 1,800 students. There was no police officer assigned to the school as the administration opted for private security instead. The school alerted police immediately after the first gunshots were fired and police were on the scene two minutes later. Ismael Huazo-Jardinez, 33, was booked on DUI and vehicular homicide charges Saturday and was arrested again by ICE in San Francisco on Tuesday Federal immigration agents on Tuesday arrested a suspected drunken driver who was free on bail after being charged with plowing into a Northern California trailer home, killing three sleeping family members and seriously injuring an 11-year-old girl. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesman Paul Prince said Ismael Huazo-Jardinez, 33, is suspected of living in the country illegally. 'U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) (San Francisco) Fugitive Operations Team members apprehended Huazo-Jardinez,' Prince said in a statement. 'ICE used available resources to locate and detain him. He will remain in ICE custody pending the disposition of his immigration proceedings.' Prince said U.S. Border Patrol agents previously arrested Huazo-Jardinez in Arizona eight years ago and he voluntarily agreed to return to his native Mexico. Immigration officials don't know when Huazo-Jardinez re-entered the United States and declined to say where exactly in San Francisco agents arrested him on Tuesday. 'Ismael Huazo-Jardinez is an illegally present Mexican national,' ICE said in a statement. 'The U.S. Border Patrol apprehended him in Arizona and granted him voluntary return to Mexico in February 2011. He illegally re-entered at some point thereafter.' ICE believes that he was living in the US illegally when he mowed down and killed a California mother, father and their 10-year-old son as they slept in their trailer home on Saturday night The suspect is due in court for his arraignment on June 10, KCRA reported. Jose Alberto Pacheco, 38, Anna Grisalda Pacheco, 34 and their child Angel Alberto Pacheco-Espinoza, 10, all died when Huazo-Jardinez crashed into their home in Sutter County on Saturday night driving a Chevy Avalanche pickup truck. The Pacheco's 11-year-old daughter was left in critical condition and underwent multiple surgeries on Monday at UC Davis Medical Center, said Sutter County Sheriff's Office spokesman Scott Smallwood. The Pacheco's as yet unnamed 11-year-old daughter was left in critical condition and was scheduled to undergo multiple surgeries Monday at UC Davis Medical Center, said Sutter County Sheriff's Office spokesman Scott Smallwood The collision occurred when the suspect 'failed to negotiate' an 'S' curve while heading northbound on State Route 113 south of Jennings Court, SacBee reported. The grandparents of the child lived next door to the now-collapsed trailer and have been forced to move out of their home due to the damage. Huazo-Jardinez was out on $300,000 bond on Monday night, presumably returning to his Yuba City home, authorities say. McMains Bail Bonds in Oroville posted $30,000 for him, California Globe reported. Residents of the area where he crashed were worried about him being free after a judge refused CHP's request for a $1 million bail, the Sacramento Bee reported. Vehicular manslaughter charges carry up to four years in prison for each count plus three to six years if others are seriously injured. The charge also carries a $10,000 fine. He has a previous reckless driving conviction and a handful of citations but no major criminal history, Smallwood said. Highway patrol said the driver 'failed to negotiate' an 'S' curve on State Route 113. A spokesperson said: 'If you add alcohol and speed, it's a recipe for disaster' Huazo-Jardinez crashed into their home in Sutter County on Saturday driving a Chevy Avalanche pickup. Another truck registered in his name was at his Yuba City home Tuesday 'This is an extremely sad situation for Sutter County's residents, and we put our condolences out to all family members that have been affected by this,' he added. The family's landlord, Frankie Gonsalves, paid tribute to the Pacheco family. 'Model family. Two very hardworking parents, farmworkers, well-behaved kids. 'They are, were, I would say, (among) my top five tenants here. Really good people, pay their rent on time,' Gonsalves said. Next door neighbor Brian Nunez, 13, said he is a friend of the family and was praying for them. 'I met them when we were little kids. Very little,' Nunez told Fox Sacramento 40. 'I played with them. It's horrible that this happened.' Jose Alberto Pacheco, 38, Anna Grisalda Pacheco, 34 and their child Angel Alberto Pacheco-Espinoza, 10, all died when Huazo-Jardinez, 33, driving a Chevy Avalanche pickup truck crashed into their home Neighbors shared that they had asked for a guardrail to be installed in the area, which they say has seen a number of car accidents. 'Those who are drinking and driving, you have got to stop. Look at what you are doing to people. And all you do is wake up with a damn hangover,' neighbor Debra Franklin told Fox. 'You are destroying families.' 'It's got to stop. Whoever is in charge of this highway you need to do something about it,' Franklin said. 'Because there's speeding and there's no way to protect the people who live here.' Neighbor Jeff Jensen told KCRA: 'I hope they do something about this road. Put some kind of slowdown.' He appears in a mugshot with scratches on his head, nose and cheekbone. The suspect was booked into Sutter County Jail on felony DUI and three counts of vehicular manslaughter charges. 'If you add alcohol and speed, it's a recipe for disaster,' said California Highway Patrol spokesman David Hernandez. A Military Police soldier with a history of bingeing on alcohol was found dead in her home with an empty gin bottle at side after drinking herself to death, an inquest has ruled. Private Mhairi Burnet, 28, of the 160 Military Provost Company, had recently returned to her home near her Aldershot base, after a turbulent Christmas spent unhappily with family in Scotland. Her body was discovered on December 30 in her home in Borden, Hampshire, by fellow MPs. She was rushed to hospital but declared dead by paramedics at 9pm. After gaining entry to her house through an unlocked back door, officers found her cold and unresponsive, still in her pyjamas with an empty bottle of gin at her bedside. She had stopped answering phone calls in the hours before she was discovered. Private Mhairi Burnet, 28, was found dead at home near Aldershot by fellow MPs in December Today an inquest at Basingstoke Coroner's Court, coroner Andrew Bradley explained that Pte Burnet was discovered hours after concerned military police posted a note through her door reading: 'Urgent. Military Police have visited your property'. Fears escalated when she failed to respond. Her mother, Wendy, told officers that her daughter had endured an unhappy time back in Glasgow, Mr Bradley said. Her mother also explained Mhairi was prone to extreme binge drinking sessions, and had been known to pass out after drinking neat vodka and taking diazepam. The inquest heard Pte Burnet last spoke to her mother on Friday December 28 2018 - two days before her body was discovered. It is feared she may have been dead for more than 24 hours before she was found, and a toxicology report later revealed she was almost five times over the drink-drive limit at the time of her death. A toxicology expert concluded a cause of death of acute alcohol intoxication, and revealed she had 360 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood at the time of her death, Mr Bradley said. Pte Burnet's family did not attend the inquest. Private Mhairi Burnet had a history of binge drinking, her mother said In a statement released shortly after her death, they said: 'Wendy, Shona and family would like to thank all friends, neighbours and colleagues for the kind expressions of sympathy, cards and flowers received during their recent sad loss of Mhairi.' The family also thanked Mhairi's friends and fellow soldiers for their involvement in the funeral service, and for caring for the family. The Ministry of Defence said shortly after the incident: 'We can confirm that Private Mhairi Burnet was found dead in Bordon on 30 December 2018'. Attending the inquest, Lieutenant Colonel Kris Rotchell confirmed the military were set to undertake a service enquiry into the circumstances of her death. Mr Bradley, senior coroner North East Hampshire, confirmed her cause of death as acute alcohol intoxication. He said: 'The effect of it was alcohol, and she took considerable solace in that, to the extent that it was what killed her. 'She goes home, having returned from Germany, and relations at home are unhappy. She returns from Glasgow to Bordon - where she drinks.' Mr Bradley gave a conclusion of misadventure. He said Pte Burnet had been drinking to excess while in a 'depressed and emotional state'. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, or see samaritans.org for details. Jerry Falwell Jr. has denied a stunning report that longtime Trump fixer Michael Cohen helped him to resolve a 'blackmail' attempt to help make 'terrible' photos go away in advance of his own pivotal Trump endorsement. Falwell, the evangelical leader and son of the late Jerry Falwell, said despite a long friendship with Cohen, the longtime Trump lawyer who on Monday began a three-year prison sentence did not represent him in any capacity to resolve a matter involving 'personal' photos. He made the statement after Cohen was revealed to have made the claim himself in a surreptitiously-recorded conversation. Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr., (left) and his wife, Rebecca (right), solicited Trump's former fixer Michael Cohen's help in 2015 to help resolive a personal matter after someone obtained what Cohen described as racy personal photographs better kept 'between husband and wife' 'While we have a long-standing friendship with Michael Cohen, we never engaged or paid Cohen to represent us in any legal or other professional capacity, and Cohen did not ever resolve any legal matter on our behalf," Falwell told host Todd Starnes. "This report is not accurate." His statement did not deny that Cohen provided informal advice or otherwise assist in resolving the matter. Falwell also said that 'no compromising or embarrassing photos' of himself existed, he told the Todd Starnes Show on Fox News Radio, Fox reported. Falwell's statement came on the heels of a Reuters report Tuesday that the Liberty University President asked Cohen in 2015 to help make some 'personal' photos disappear. During a call with actor Tom Arnold, Cohen said that a few months before Falwell's game-changing endorsement of Trump in the critical Iowa Caucuses, the president of Liberty University solicited Cohen's help after someone obtained racy 'personal' photographs. Cohen described the pictures to Arnold as 'terrible' and the sort that would typically be kept 'between husband and wife,' according to a recorded conversation reviewed by Reuters. After the Falwells told Cohen someone had obtained photographs and was demanding money, Cohen flew to Florida and met with an attorney for the person with the photographs. Falwell's debacle over the photographs emerged after Reuters reviewed a recording of a phone call actor Tom Arnold had with Cohen on March 25. Cohen told Arnold Falwell asked for his help to deal with the person who obtained the 'personal' photos Although he lost his law license after his guilty plea to lying to Congress and a campaign finance violation regarding the Stormy Daniels payoff, Cohen was licensed to practice law in New York, not Florida, so would not have been able to carry out a legal transaction there. The attorney for the person who possessed the photos told Cohen they had all been destroyed after Cohen intervened on the Falwells' behalf and pointed out the person was committing a crime. The Falwells enlisted Cohen's help the year Trump announced his presidential candidacy. At the time, Cohen was Trump's confidant and personal lawyer, and he worked for the Trump Organization. He handled a wide variety of tasks for Trump during the campaign, including negotiating 'hush' payments with porn star Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who each claimed they had affairs with Trump. Cohen also pursued a failed Trump tower Moscow deal through the summer of 2016. Falwell issued an endorsement of then-candidate Trump a few months after the photo fiasco and just before the Iowa caucus a move that helped Trump gain ground with the Christian community Cohen told Arnold he wanted to keep 'a bunch of photographs, personal photographs' from becoming public. 'I actually have one of the photos,' he said, without going into specifics. 'It's terrible.' Through a lawyer, Falwell, the president of one of the world's largest Christian universities, declined to comment on Cohen's conversation. Sources also said Cohen was also responsible for helping persuade Falwell to issue his endorsement of Trump's presidential candidacy at a critical moment just before the Iowa caucuses. Falwell subsequently barnstormed with Trump and vouched for the candidate's Christian virtues. There is no evidence that Falwell's endorsement of Trump was related to Cohen's involvement in the photo matter, and the source familiar with Cohen's thinking insisted the endorsement and the help with the photographs were separate issues. Arnold spoke with Cohen on the phone on March 25, and recorded the conversation without the former attorney's knowledge. Some details of their talk emerged last month when the Wall Street Journal initially reported on the recorded phone call. While speaking to Arnold, Cohen admitting that he lied in at least part of his guilty plea in order to protect his wife, according to the Journal's report. Cohen, who began a three-year prison sentence this week for federal campaign violations and lying to Congress, recounted his involvement in the matter in his call with Arnold. Trump delivered the keynote address during Liberty University's graduation commencement on May 17, 2017. The last sitting president that spoke at Liberty's graduation was George H. W. Bush in 1990 Falwell has continued to voice his support Trump since his initial endorsement. On May 5 he tweeted the president should be given two extra years to his first term due to distractions created by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia investigation, which spanned almost two years Cohen's connection to the Falwells sheds light on the formidable alliance between Trump and a man who, through his university, is one of the most influential evangelical figures in America. Falwell's backing helped galvanize evangelicals and persuaded many Christians concerned about Trump's past behavior to embrace him as a repentant sinner. Falwell's support for Trump has not wavered throughout the New York celebrity-politician's own tribulations, including the Access Hollywood recording of Trump talking about grabbing women's genitals and payoffs made by Cohen to hide Trump's extramarital affairs. This past weekend, Falwell tweeted that 'Trump should have 2 yrs added to his 1st term' to make up for the almost two years of Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Falwells endorsement of Trump, however, did surprise some students and staff at Liberty University, the school in Lynchburg, Virginia, founded by Falwells father. It was at Liberty where fellow Republican presidential candidate and major Trump rival Ted Cruz had chosen to launch his campaign the previous year. Cruz's father was an evangelical preacher, much like Falwell's father; Trump has been married three times and divorced twice. For years, prior to running for president, Trump boasted of his sexual exploits and supported a host of social positions, such as abortion rights, that run counter to beliefs espoused by Falwell. Although Falwell declined interview requests for this story, he has said repeatedly that he endorsed Trump because Trump was the strongest candidate, had significant experience running a business, and had the right vision for the country. The connection between Trump and Falwell goes back years. In 2012, Trump gave the convocation at Liberty University. One link between Trump and the couple appears to have been Cohen, a now-disbarred New York lawyer who formed a close bond with the Falwells. 'There still remains much to be told and I look forward to the day that I can share the truth,' Cohen told reporters as he left his Manhattan home on Monday to report for his three-year federal prison sentence Cohen on the final stage of his journey to Federal Correctional Institution, Otisville medium-security prison on Monday During the campaign, Cohen worked closely with Liberty University to help promote Trump's candidacy. It was around that time that Cohen heard from the Falwells about the photographs, said the source familiar with Cohen's thinking. In early 2016, the Iowa caucus was coming up, and Cohen then deeply loyal to Trump was concerned about how Trump would fare, a source said. Cohen felt Trump 'was being slaughtered in that community,' and 'didn't want to see him embarrassed or, you know, without support,' said the source familiar with Cohen's thinking. Cohen repeatedly reached out to Jerry Falwell, and pleaded with him to back Trump, the source said. Soon after, according to this account, Falwell made his historic announcement. 'I am proud to offer my endorsement of Donald J. Trump for President of the United States,' Falwell was quoted saying in a statement issued by the Trump campaign. 'He is a successful executive and entrepreneur, a wonderful father and a man who I believe can lead our country to greatness again.' The revelation of Cohen's involvement in a blackmail plot in Florida was not the only unusual legal difficulty the evangelical leader has found himself in in the state. Falwell was involved in another legal scandal in Florida, where a father-son duo filed a lawsuit against him and a 21-year-old pool boy, Giancario Granda, he went into business with after they said Falwell refused to share profits from the real estate venture Jesus Fernandez Sr and Jesus Fernandez Jr are suing, alleging that Falwell and Granda cut them out of the deal involving a hostel in Miami, Florida According to the lawsuit, Falwell wanted to help Granda, who had no previous business experience, 'establish a new career' Falwell was named as a defendant in a lawsuit over a Miami Beach hostel, which he had invested in along with a young pool boy, Giancarlo Granda, who was 21 at the time of the deal. The lawsuit was brought against Falwell, Granda and others last year by father-son duo Jesus Fernandez Sr. and Jesus Fernandez Jr., who claimed that they helped start the Alton Hostel in Miami Beach in 2013, only to be excluded from the deal. The civil complaint, refiled in August 2017 after it was dismissed in 2015, accuses Falwell, his wife Rebecca, their adult son Trey and their business associate Granda, of failing to share profits from the real estate venture. Falwell flew Granda around on the family's private jet and the evangelical leader told the pool boy that he wished to help him 'establish a new career and build a business,' according to the suit. Granda, who had no experience in business development, got the Fernandez's involved when he went to his then-friend Fernandez Jr., and asked for his help to come up with a good profitable business he could bring to Falwell. After they came up with the idea for the hostel, Granda went back to Fernandez Jr., and asked him to consult with his father, Fernandez Sr., who 'was very experienced in real estate ventures,' according to the complaint. The complaint accuses the defendants of breach of contract, two counts of fraud and one count of unjust enrichment. Chinese authorities have called up some of the country's biggest heartthrobs to promote their social credit system in a star-studded music video. The upbeat propaganda song features hugely popular celebrities such as 18-year-old Wang Yuan from boy band TFBoys, which is billed as 'One Direction of the Far East'. It was produced by the China Youth Credit Action campaign, part of the nation-wide effort to promote the social credit system before it is officially complete next year. A screen shot of the song which features China's top celebrities, such as Wang Yuan (pictured) Actress Zhang Tian'ai waves with a group of teens in the three-and-a-half-minute-long video The three-and-a-half-minute-long pop song, called 'Live up to Your Word', is supervised by Communist Youth League of China and is now making waves on social media. 'As long as you say it, it's a promise; as long as you do it, it's called fulfilment. 'Put credibility in your heart, and go forward with me,' the stars sing passionately in the music video. 'Every day we practise. Live up to your word. Let's be trustworthy youngsters,' the lyrics continue. Five other celebrities appear in the music video, including 24-year-old actor Xu Weizhou who shot to fame in 2015 after starring in an indie film about internet gaming; as well as 30-year-old actor Wei Daxun, best known for his romantic comedies. Wang Yuan (left), 18, is a member of boy band TFBoys, billed as 'One Direction of the Far East' Wang stars in the propaganda video together with heartthrobs Xu Weizhou and Wei Daxun Jointly launched in 2016 by China's Communist Youth League, National Development and Reform Commission and People's Bank of China, the China Youth Credit Action campaign aims to involve nearly 100 million young volunteers to help promote the social credit system. China's social credit system rates the country's 1.4 billion people based on their daily activities - mainly in financial and legal areas. A citizen or a company can be discredited - or even blacklisted - for a variety of reasons, from refusing to follow a court order to failing to pay their mortgages for more than two months. Some behavior, which people might regard common and insignificant, would also land them in trouble, such as paying their gas bills late. The authorities have also called up popular actress Wang Likun (left) and Zhang Tian'ai (right) The defaulters, known as 'lao lai' in China, could be punished in more than 100 different ways, depending on the seriousness of their offence. Penalties include being banned from taking high-speed trains, travelling by air or sending their children to elite schools. The system is facilitated by the 'big data' technology, which is in turn backed by a national surveillance system featuring 200 million AI-powered street cameras. Critics, however, have voiced concerns over the system, claiming it's a way for the government to invade citizens' privacy and restrict their freedom. China plans to complete building the system by the end of 2020 after starting out in 2014. It's currently being rolled out in 12 trial cities, including populous provincial capitals like Hangzhou, Nanjing, Chengdu and Suzhou. A man was stabbed to death in front of terrified shoppers at a Tesco in Slough today. Police and ambulance crews were scrambled to the underground car park of the Tesco Extra in Wellington Street, Berkshire, at 12.32pm after reports of a stabbing. The victim was rushed to hospital where he was later pronounced dead. His next of kin is yet to be informed. Thames Valley Police launched a murder investigation, but no arrests have yet been made. Police are seen at the scene of a fatal stabbing inside the underground car park at a Tesco superstore in Slough, Berkshire this afternoon The car park has been cordoned off by police who swarmed the scene as the tragedy unfolded. Head of TVP's Major Crime Unit, Detective Superintendent Ian Hunter said: 'This is a shocking incident in which a man has lost his life. 'Our task now is to find out what happened and bring the offender or offenders to justice. 'The victim's next of kin are yet to be informed, so I would urge the media and the public not to speculate on the victim's identity until his next of kin has been informed and he has been formally identified. 'I understand that this incident will cause concern in the community but I want to reassure all residents that the Major Crime Unit has commenced an extensive investigation. 'We are already reviewing CCTV, taking witness statements and carrying out forensic examinations. 'However, we also need the help of the public. If you have any information you think might aid our investigation, if you saw or heard anything suspicious or have mobile phone, dashcam or CCTV footage then please contact the force. 'The easiest way to contact us is by visiting our website at https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/ or calling 101, quoting reference 487 (8/5). 'There is a scenewatch in place, with the underground car park at Tesco currently closed. We would ask people to avoid the area at this time while we carry out vital enquiries. 'The Major Crime Unit is being supported by our colleagues in the Slough local policing area. If you have any questions or concerns then please speak to an officer.' by Sumon Corraya Police boost their presence near Christian places of worship. Security forces give advice on how to recognise dangers. The countrys prime minister calls for high alert. Dhaka (AsiaNews) Bangladesh has boosted security around the countrys churches to prevent terrorist attacks. This follows the Easter Sunday bombings against three churches and three hotels in Sri Lanka, which killed 257 people. More police and security forces have been deployed near Christian places of worship. "In the past there were three agents in front of the main door of the church; now there are ten, said Fr Kamal Corraya, pastor at a church in Tejgaon, Dhaka. After the massacres in Sri Lanka, we gathered with the members of the parish council and decided to increase surveillance, especially during Sunday masses," he explained. Hence, he issued a warning to his congregation, asking them not to bring large bags to church. "Security guards don't know the identity of worshippers, so they have to check the bags of everyone entering the church." Similar preventive measures have also been taken in the port city of Chattogram (ex Chittagong), in the south of the country. One of the places closely monitored is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, in the citys Patherghata area. "In addition to policemen, there are sometimes agents of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) to guarantee our security," said Fr Jermon DRozario, assistant parish priest. The RAB is the elite anti-crime and anti-terrorism unit of the Bangladesh Police. To increase awareness among parish priests of the danger of attacks by affiliates of the Islamic State, and how to prevent them, the local law enforcement organised an ad hoc meeting in the Diocese of Barisal on 2 May at the Catholic church in Narikelbari. About 92 clergymen were present. Fr Loton Gomes, assistant of the local parish priest, noted that "there are many small Protestant congregations in the area, in addition to the Catholic churches. Police gave us some useful tips, like installing video surveillance cameras, increasing the number of guards and avoiding large bags. We must be suspicious of people we do not know and who might try to avoid the request for identification by the agents." After the attacks in Sri Lanka, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called on her fellow Bangladeshis to "stay alert in the face of threats. In fact, the country was the scene of terror attacks in the past. In 2016 the attack against Holy Artisan Bakery Cafe in Dhaka claimed the lives of 20 people, mostly foreigners. "Today [Islamist] militancy, said the prime minister, isnt just a problem in Bangladesh, but has become a global issue". Real Housewives of Cheshire star Lauren Simon (pictured outside London'a Appeal Court) was handed the lump sum last year, after the end of her 13-year marriage A reality television star and her property millionaire ex-husband are fighting over a 3million divorce payout he says was 'discriminatory' against him. Lauren Simon, 46, who appeared on the Real Housewives of Cheshire, was handed the lump sum last year, after the end of her 13-year marriage to businessman Paul Simon, 49. But Mr Simon, who lived with his now ex wife in a lavish 1.8million home in Bowden, Cheshire, claims the divorce order has effectively left him with no ready cash of his own. He says the payout amounts to 1million more than the 2million the couple had between them in liquid assets. He is asking top judges at the Court of Appeal to rule the payout was 'inherently discriminatory' in favour of his wife as 'homemaker' and against him as the main 'breadwinner' in the family. But Mrs Simon, who claims their joint fortune was worth over 9million, is insisting the 3million her ex had to pay her was simply her fair share. The court heard the couple married in November 2003 and had two children before separating in January 2016. Mrs Simon shot to fame in 2015 after she found a role on the ITVBe show Real Housewives of Cheshire, which features the glamorous lifestyles of Cheshire women. She left the show earlier this year. She earned 40,000-a-year, but also received perks and the chance to plug her brand of perfume, Lauren Stone Number One, which she launched at a lavish party in Hale Barns, the court heard. Mr Simon lived partly on the back of a trust fund set up by his father, Harvey, and on earnings he made through his property development businesses. But during their divorce case at the Family Court in Manchester last year, he claimed that the 2008 financial crash had caused 'grave business difficulties' for him. Paul Simon (left) who lived with his now ex wife (right, in the pink jacket, leaving the appeal court with a friend) in a lavish 1.8million home claims the divorce order has effectively left him with no ready cash of his own Lauren Simon (third from right) pictured on the Real Housewives of Cheshire in January 2015. Left to right: Dawn Ward, Tanya Bardsley, Ampika Pickston, Mrs Simon, Leanne Brown and Magali Gorre Following a bitterly contested hearing, Mrs Justice Parker awarded Mrs Simon the 3million lump sum as a final conclusion to the couple's married life. At the Court of Appeal today, the husband's barrister Richard Todd QC argued that the sum was based on an over-valuation of the assets available to be split. 'The learned judge made an order which was inherently discriminatory,' he argued. 'It discriminated against the husband as breadwinner and in favour of the mother as homemaker. Mrs Simon (pictured in 2015) shot to fame after she found a role on the ITVBe show Real Housewives of Cheshire. It features the glamorous lifestyles of Cheshire women. She left the show earlier this year 'All of the liquid assets - and more - were to be paid to the wife. 'In addition to the liquid assets, the husband would have to find another approximately 850,000 to pay to the wife when he had no such resources.' The judge had wrongly taken into account 4.8m worth of assets held in the trust fund as if they belonged to the husband, he told Lady Justice King, Lady Justice Rose and Lord Justice Coulson. Although he is able to use the income from the fund during his lifetime, it was wrong to treat it as a resource which could be split on divorce, he argued. It meant the judge had vastly overvalued the liquid assets which could be called upon to provide the wife with a payout, he continued. In the end, she was awarded the 3million, which was more than the 2,078,000 which Mr Simon claimed they had. 'If the learned judge had correctly calculated the total of the assets available to the parties, it is inconceivable that she would have ordered more than there was in liquid capital to the wife,' said Mr Todd. He also claimed that Mrs Justice Parker had taken an 'indulgent approach to the wife's evidence' on what her needs were for cash after the divorce. The judge found she needed 100,000, he said, whereas they had previously lived 'modestly' as a couple, flying economy class and returning from a holiday on New Year's Eve to find cheaper flights. Mr Simon himself earned less than 30,000-a-year, while the cash tied up in his businesses was not 'realistically realisable' without selling their assets, he added. He continued: 'In assessing the parties' housing needs, the learned judge preferred the wife's case on her housing need and then made no provision - none at all - for the housing of the husband.' The former couple had 'very similar or identical needs for housing,' but Mrs Simon had claimed she even needed a bedroom for her 65-year-old housekeeper, he said. And the judge was wrong to find she had no material earning capacity when she was making 40,000-a-year on TV, Mr Todd added. However, battling the father of her children in court, Mrs Simon claimed he treated the trust fund like a 'bank account' to use when needed. 'The wife's presentation was that the assets in the case came to about 9,639,627,' her barrister, Martin Pointer QC, said. 'This was at a level quite appropriate to justify the lump sum order made by the judge in her favour. 'The husband overstates the wife's financial position. The truth is that, latterly, she has taken a role in the Real Housewives of Cheshire reality television series, which has brought in some limited money. 'It is ephemeral and unlikely to endure. She does not have any acting training or skills and cannot be regarded as having a material earning capacity. 'She attempted to launch a brand of perfume, but it had been loss-making and has closed.' It was also incorrect for Mr Simon to claim he earned less than 30,000, since he was able to use capital gains from his property developments as well as the smaller salary he received, the barrister argued. He said the 3m awarded was perfectly fair, given the huge amount of money available to the husband. The judges adjourned the appeal until later this year. President Donald Trump on Wednesday claimed executive privilege over the full, unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report and House Democrats found Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress for refusing to hand it over. The vote to on contempt charges, held in the House Judiciary Committee, was along partisan lines - 24 Democrats versus 16 Republican - and now goes before the full House chamber for a vote, where Democrats hold a 38-seat majority. After the full House votes the issue is expected to end up in the courts. Lawmakers debated the contempt charge for six and half hours before holding a final vote on the matter with Democrats arguing they needed the full Mueller report for their congressional oversight responsibilities and Republicans charging a political dog-and-pony show. 'We are now in a constitutional crisis,' House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler said after the vote. 'This was a very grave and momentous step we were forced to take today to move a contempt citation against the attorney general of the United States. We did not relish doing this but we have no choice,' he added. House Democrats on Wednesday voted to find Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerry Nadler said he was bringing up the contempt citation because of the Justice Department's refusal to comply with a subpoena for the full version of Robert Mueller's report The Justice Department slammed the vote, saying Congress could not force them to break the law. 'The attorney general could not comply with the House Judiciary Committee's subpoena without violating the law, court rules, and court orders, and without threatening the independence of the Department's prosecutorial functions,' said Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec in a statement. 'It is deeply disappointing that elected representatives of the American people have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics. Regrettably, Chairman Nadler's actions have prematurely terminated the accommodation process and forced the president to assert executive privilege to preserve the status quo. No one, including Chairman Nadler and his committee, will force the Department of Justice to break the law.' The White House moved to pre-empt the vote by invoking executive privilege over the Democrats' demands. 'Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney General's request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege,' White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement. 'The Attorney General has been transparent and accommodating throughout this process, including by releasing the no-collusion, no-conspiracy, no-obstruction Mueller Report to the public and offering to testify before the Committee. These attempts to work with the Committee have been flatly rejected. They didn't like the results of the report, and now they want a redo,' she added. The hearing offered members of the committee a chance to vent their opinion on the Russia investigation - an opportunity many lawmakers took advantage of. Democratic Rep. Hakeem Jeffries slammed President Trump for embarrassing former FBI agent Peter Strzok and bureau attorney Lisa Page with his critical tweets. The New York Democrat also slammed Republicans for holding their own 'witch hunt' when it came to their pursuit of Hillary Clinton's private email server. 'Reputational interests? Really? Many of my colleagues on the side of the aisle actually perpetrated a witch hunt as it relates to securing more than 800,000 documents from the very same Department of Justice without regard to the reputational interests of Americans that serve this country,' Jeffries said. 'You were not concerned about the representational interest of Hillary Clinton,' he added, speaking of the president. 'In fact, the top Republicans said the sole objective was to undermine her, the former first lady and Secretary of State. You weren't concerned with the reputational interest of Peter Strzok and Lisa Page. In fact, you embarrassed those two. They made mistakes, but you embarrassed those two.' Texts between Strzok and Page, who worked on the Clinton email investigation, revealed the two agents, who were having an affair, were against Trump being elected. And Republicans countered by accusing Democrats of trying to harm Barr's reputation. GOP Rep. Jim Jordan, one of Trump's biggest defenders on Capitol Hill, said Democrats were really worried about what the attorney general would find in his investigation of whether or not the FBI spied on Trump's campaign during the 2016 election. 'Bill Barr is following the law and what's his reward? Democrats hold him in contempt,' Jordan said. 'I don't think today's actually about getting information. I don't think it's about getting the un-redacted Mueller report.' 'I think it's all about trying to destroy Bill Barr because Democrats are nervous he's going to get to the bottom of everything. He's going to find out how and why this investigation started in the first place,' he added. And Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, who is running for president, urged his fellow committee members to impeach Barr if he won't meet their demands. 'Then you move to impeach him,' Swalwell said. 'And you do the same thing to anyone else who doesn't want to follow the law.' 'This is not about executive privilege,' the California Democrat added. 'This is about burying the evidence, Mr. Chairman.' Democratic Rep. Hakeem Jeffries slammed President Trump for holding a witch hunt against Hillary Clinton While GOP Rep. Jim Jordan, one of Trump's biggest defenders on Capitol Hill, said Democrats were trying to destroy Barr's reputation Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, who is running for president, urged his fellow committee members to impeach Bill Barr if the attorney general won't meet their demands House Judiciary Committee chairman Jerry Nadler said he was bringing up the contempt citation because of the Justice Department's refusal to comply with a subpoena for the full version of Mueller's findings. 'Today, we consider a report recommending that the House of Representatives hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for defying a valid subpoena issued by this committee. This is not a step we take lightly. It is the culmination of nearly three months of requests, discussions and negotiations with the Department of Justice for the complete, unredacted report by special counsel Mueller into Russian interference in the 2016 election along with the underlying evidence,' Nadler said. And he slammed the White House for invoking privilege, charging it was 'a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance' of the Democrats' investigations in the administration. 'Since the White House waived these privileges long ago and the department seemed open to sharing these materials with us just yesterday, this decision represents a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance. I hope the department will think better of this last-minute outburst and return to negotiations. As a co-equal branch of government we must have access to the documents we need to fulfill our responsibilities in a manner consistent with past precedent. This is information we are legally entitled to receive and we are constitutionally obligated to review,' he said. He also argued the White House's move 'has the effect of aiding and abetting of total blanket and unprecedented obstruction.' 'When the administration says it will oppose all subpoena, regardless of its merits, it is saying it does not recognize Congress having a constitutional oversight authority over the executive branch. And to those who consider the matter case closed in the words of some of our leaders and urge us simply to move on, I would say to do so is to announce loud and clear that such a course of action has the effect of aiding and abetting of total blanket and unprecedented obstruction,' Nadler said. 'Our fight is not just about the Mueller report. Our fight is about defending the rights of congress as an independent branch to hold the president, any president accountable,' he added. Late Tuesday evening, in a last-ditch move to try and prevent the contempt vote, the Justice Department said it would ask President Trump to invoke executive privilege in order to withhold the unredacted Mueller report from Congress. The contempt citation against Attorney General Bill Barr now goes before the full House for a vote 'In the face of the Committee's threatened contempt vote, the Attorney General will be compelled to request that the President invoke executive privilege with respect to the materials subject to the subpoena,' assistant attorney general Stephen Boyd wrote in a letter to Nadler. 'I hereby request that the committee hold the subpoena in abeyance and delay any vote on whether to recommend a citation of contempt for noncompliance with the subpoena, pending the president's determination of this question,' he added. Boyd sent another letter to Nadler on Wednesday, announcing the use of executive privilege and blaming Democrats for it being invoked. 'This is to advise you that the President has asserted executive privilege over the entirety of the subpoenaed materials,' he wrote. 'Regrettably, you have made this assertion necessary by your insistence upon scheduling a premature contempt vote.' The Justice Department had tried to pre-empt a contempt vote by offering Democrats a less-redacted version of the report, which they refused. Democrats argue they do not want Barr to break the law and release grand jury information, merely to join their effort to ask the courts to unseal material for the grand jury for committee use. The Justice Department is arguing that under Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure they are not allowed to release the grand jury information. Mueller used grand juries to get subpoenas and search warrants in addition to the indictments he handed down. But Democrats point out Congress has managed twice to obtain federal grand jury information in prior special counsel investigations - Watergate and Ken Starr's probe. Barr offered to let a select group of Democrats view the entire report except for the grand jury information - but Democratic lawmakers denied his offer, saying they wanted to see it all. Sanders slammed Democrats for not taking Barr up on his offer. 'I think it's so absurd this idea that Congress doesn't get to see the Mueller report. In fact, there's a less redacted version of the Mueller report sitting there waiting on them to come and look at it,' she told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. 'Not a single Democrat has even taken the time to go and look at it. They're asking for information they know they can't have. The attorney general is actually upholding the law,' she added. 'The attorney general is protecting information, grand jury information, confidential information, that he cannot release. But the fact that the chairman knows that and he continues to ignore it, is absolutely absurd,' she noted. Republicans reminded Democrats that Mueller's report found no evidence of collusion between Trump's campaign and Russia in the 2016 election. 'I feel compelled to remind everyone the report found despite offers to do so, no one from the Trump campaign knowingly conspired with the Russian government. You can't help but notice that Russian collusion has left the narrative,' Republican Rep. Doug Collins said in the Judiciary Committee hearing. 'Democrats have decided to try to neutralize Bill Barr by attacking him, his integrity and career. What a mean spirited step it is,' he added. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders slammed Democrats for not taking up Bill Barr's offer to view all of Mueller's report except for the grand jury information Republican Rep. Doug Collins reminded Democrats that Mueller found no evidence of collusion between Trump's campaign and Russia in the 2016 election While Mueller's report found no evidence of collusion, it left the decision to charge Trump with obstructing the investigation into Barr's hands. Barr, in conjunction with then-Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein, decided not to pursue obstruction charges. However, Mueller's report made it clear that Congress still has the oversight authority to investigate the president on the matter. 'The conclusion that Congress may apply the obstruction laws to the President's corrupt exercise of the powers of office accords with our constitutional system of checks and balances and the principle that no person is above the law,' the report stated. Democrats have latched on to that and asked for the full Mueller report as part of that probe. 'If it weren't for him being president, he would be in prison with Michael Cohen today as individual one and he obstructed justice, as the Mueller report says so,' Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen said at Wednesday's hearing. Nadler said earlier Wednesday his panel had no choice but to proceed with the contempt vote. 'Attorney General Barr has made the entire Justice Department an agency for enabling the president to defy the law, to defy and kind of accountability and to act as a monarch,' he said on CNN's 'New Day.' Nadler said the citation was necessary because the attorney general was protecting President Trump from congressional oversight. The Justice Department, Nadler said, has 'made it twice as necessary to proceed with this contempt, because you cannot have a government in which the president can conceal all information about his own wrongdoing and about anything else.' And Trump 'wants to make himself a king, and Congress cannot permit that, nor can the American people abide that,' he added. Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Congress should find Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress The action comes after Speaker Nancy Pelosi said earlier on Wednesday that Congress should find Barr in contempt for with holding the full version of Mueller's report. 'Yes, I think that the attorney general should be held in contempt,' she said during a Washington Post interview. 'This contempt is about the withholding of the Mueller report in an unredactive way,' she added. Pelosi has led the charge on the Democrats' argument it greater issue is Congress' right to investigate and oversee the executive branch - as outlined in the constitution - and not a partisan attack. She said the attorney general skipping out on last week's hearing is not the solo reason he should be held in contempt. 'Now that doesn't include is not showing up to testify before the House Judiciary Committee,' she said. House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said Wednesday morning the committee has 'no choice' but to proceed with the contempt vote 'It doesn't include a misrepresenting withholding the truth from the Congress, some would call that lying. I don't like that word, but you can't do that - you cannot lie under oath to Congress because you're lying under oath to the American people. So that's a whole other thing but, for the purpose of the course we're on right now, in terms of withholding information: the unredacted version of the Mueller report for the American people to see and to know,' she said. Pelosi was asked if Barr should be impeached. 'Nothing is ever off the table,' she responded but added the situation needs to work its way through the committee process before any stronger steps are taken. A contempt citation could lead to a civil court case against Barr, raising the possibility of fines and even imprisonment for failure to comply. Pelosi jokingly reminded people there is a jail in the basement of the Capitol but added: 'If we were arresting all the people in the administration we would have an overcrowded jail situation and I'm not for that.' Democrats want the full, unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said the Russia report was 'case closed' Barr released a redacted version of the report last month but the Democrats also want to see the full report and underlying evidence that informs it. They formally issued a subpoena for it but the Justice Department has not handed it over, arguing the grand jury evidence Democrats want should be with held to protect those investigations. 'The attorney general's failure to comply with our subpoena ... leaves us no choice but to initiate contempt proceedings,' Nadler said in a statement last week. Republicans reject Nadler's efforts as political theater, which they say is intended to satisfy the Democrats' voters. Also on Tuesday, the White House invoked executive privilege to block former White House Counsel Don McGahn from complying with Democrats' subpoena for him to turn over documents related to the Russia investigation. White House Counsel Pat Cipollone says the man who formerly held his position does not have the legal rights to the documents Democrats in Congress are demanding he produce. McGahn was a star witness in Mueller's probe. The White House also invoked executive privilege to block former White House Counsel Don McGahn from testifying Pelosi declined to say if McGahn should also be held in contempt, saying Congress should wait and see what happens. Nadler's committee views the full Mueller report as vital to its own corruption and obstruction of justice investigation of Trump. The chairs of five other House committees investigating the president have also called for its release. The Mueller report details extensive contacts between Trump's 2016 campaign and Moscow, but did not find that there was a conspiracy between Moscow and the campaign. The report also describes actions Trump took to try to impede Mueller's investigation. If lawmakers established that Trump obstructed justice by seeking to impede Mueller, Nadler's panel could move to impeachment proceedings against the president for high crimes and misdemeanors. The White House has declared the matter closed and Trump has repeatedly pointed out the report found no collusion. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders argued Tuesday the investigation is 'case closed.' 'We consider this to be a case closed and we're moving forward to do the work of the American people,' Sanders told ABC News' 'The Investigation' podcast. 'This is nothing more than a big dog-and-pony show.' Hundreds of Polish gay rights activists have protested in the capital Warsaw as a lesbian artist faces up to two years in prison for offending religious beliefs. Protesters rallied in central Warsaw on Tuesday evening over the brief detention of Elzbieta Podlesna, who posted images near a church of the Virgin Mary with her halo painted to resemble the rainbow flag of the LGBT community. Ms Podlesna was questioned for almost five hours on Monday after police raided her home in Warsaw, the daily Gazeta Wyborcza reported. LGBT artist Elzbieta Podlesna (left) was detained for five hours on Monday for her portrayal of the iconic Black Madonna and Christ (right) with their haloes replaced with the rainbow flag Hundreds of protesters gathered in the Polish capital Warsaw on Tuesday night to protest the detention of artist Elzbieta Podlesna for five hours on Monday She remains free but could face up to two years in prison if charged with offending religious beliefs. The prosecutor in charge of the case has so far said only that Podlesna is a suspect in an ongoing investigation. The case highlights divisions within devoutly Catholic Poland ahead of European and national parliamentary elections in which the conservative ruling Law and Justice Party (PiS) party hopes to make LGBT rights a battleground with the more liberal opposition. 'It's important because we see an attack on LGBT people and queer people, but also because it is aimed at activists, they just want to scare us,' said one protester, Anna Pietrucha, 26, who held a poster of the Virgin Mary with the rainbow. A police officer on the scene filmed protesters. Asked why he was filming them, he refused to comment and said the question should be addressed to a police spokesman, who could not immediately be reached for comment. 'Unfortunately they are doing this at every democratic protest for three years now and that is because they are trying to gather any evidence that could be useful in any way,' said Agata Diduszko-Zyglewska, an activist and city councillor. Protesters in central Warsaw complained of police filming their rally in support of artist Elzbieta Podlesna Hundreds of protesters rallied in the Polish capital Warsaw on Tuesday evening in support of LGBT artist Elzbieta Podlesna Earlier on Tuesday, European Council president Donald Tusk, who was in his native Poland, said the Polish authorities' harsh reaction was 'inconceivable.' The Warsaw-based Helsinki Foundation of Human Rights found the raid on Podlesna's home and her brief detention 'hard to understand.' But former Prime Minister and European Parliament member Jerzy Buzek said things like altering the revered icon's image 'should not take place because they can insult people who are deep believers.' Some passers-by were critical of the protest. 'Those people are brain-washed idiots,' said George Grunwald, a 60-year-old musician who had been involved in a verbal altercation with some of the protesters. 'Poland has been a Catholic country for many many years,' he said, adding that he believed left-wing groups were organising such protests to create 'any kind of chaos in Poland'. The posters, which first appeared last month in the city of Plock, have outraged many Catholics, especially as they feature the Black Madonna of Czestochowa - for Poles, the most revered image of the Virgin Mary. Female protesters with posters of Elzbieta Podlesna's LGBT version of the sacred Black Madonna icon, which has offended members of Poland's devout Catholic majority They have been strongly condemned by Poland's Catholic bishops and other religious conservatives. 'No stories about freedom and 'tolerance' give ANYBODY the right to offend the feelings of believers,' PiS interior minister Joachim Brudzinski said on Twitter. Gazeta Wyborcza reported that the church in Plock had previously used a symbolic tomb of Christ - an Easter tradition in Polish churches - to convey a message opposing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights. Barbora Cernusakova of rights group Amnesty International criticised the detention of Podlesna. 'Restricting activists from freely expressing their views in the country is unlawful and must stop immediately,' she said. A protester holds up a a poster of Elzbieta Podlesna's LGBT variation on the Black Madonna, an icon revered by Polish Catholics A woman protester holds an image Elzbieta Podlesna's LGBT variation on the Black Madonna icon, with all but the rainbow flag haloes blanked out LGBT rights have become an electoral issue in Poland after the nationalist PiS condemned a new sex education programme for schools in opposition-ruled Warsaw, saying it infringed traditional values. It hopes that focusing on cultural issues will help shore up its core vote in a country where roughly 90 percent of the 38 million population identify as Catholics and some 12 million attend mass every Sunday. PiS is popular in small towns and rural areas of Poland but less so in major urban centres. Gay marriage is not legal in Poland and same-sexpartnerships are not legally recognised. In what has become the most trying week of her career, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's PR guru appears to have been caught in a series of blunders. Meghan and Harry's head of communications Sara Latham has been beset by a number of mishaps - first, by failing to inform the world the Duchess had gone into labour and second, almost spoiling the first shot of their newborn. As the couple's private photographer got set to capture the very first picture of the couple loving cradling their new son Archie today, Ms Latham was forced to dash out of the way. Ms Latham walked into the chapel ahead of the couple, but - with the cameras rolling and the Sussexes hot on her heels - had to break into a comedy run across St George's Chapel corridor to avoid ruining the iconic moment. Two days previously, with the eyes of the world focused on the most anticipated royal birth in years, the PR manager failed to inform media outlets worldwide what was going on - because emails failed to send. That is the excuse for Monday's bizarre miscommunications from the team run by Ms Latham, the Anglo-American former Clinton aide appointed by Harry and Meghan in March to run their media operation. But a 'profuse' apology from the Palace yesterday over emails sent at 1pm which didn't arrive until 2pm hardly explains why the world was told Meghan had gone into labour at lunchtime, when in fact she'd given birth before dawn. As the couple's private photographer got set to capture the very first picture of the couple loving cradling their new son Archie, Ms Latham was forced to run out of the way as the new parents strolled into St George's Chapel today The PR guru walked into the chapel ahead of the couple, but appeared not to have left enough time ahead of their arrival Prince Harry revealed shortly after 2pm that his wife had given birth to a healthy baby boy on Monday morning Sara Latham, 48, was appointed to run the Sussexes' press operation in March The delays and faults meant the ITV lunchtime bulletin missed the news, and left veteran BBC royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell mumbling into incoherence during a live two-way on Monday evening. Yesterday Kensington Palace blamed 'technical difficulties on site at Windsor' for some media outlets receiving statements on time, others late, and some not at all. But even that goes no way to explaining why, if the Duchess gave birthday in a London hospital at 5.26am, the press - who presumed her to be heavily pregnant in Frogmore Cottage - were told only that she had 'gone into labour' at lunchtime. What we now know is that Meghan was spirited away from Frogmore on Sunday night, accompanied by her husband, her mother, and her royal protection officers. The team headed to Portland Hospital in London, where Victoria Beckham gave birth and where a room in the birthing wing can cost up to 15,000. At 5.26am, Meghan gave birth to a healthy baby boy weighing 7lbs 3oz - the Queen's eighth great-grandchild, and the seven-in-line to the throne. A sign was placed outside the Prince Harry pub in central Windsor with the message 'It's a boy' as the establishment also celebrated with balloons - not not until long after the birth happened The announcement was also made from Buckingham Palace in a statement which included a long list of members of the Royal Family who were 'delighted' at the news and said Meghan's mother Doria was 'overjoyed' - her father Thomas was conspicuously absent from those named A man dressed as a town crier outside Windsor Castle proclaimed news of the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's baby once the world was told At around 4pm members of staff set up an official notice on an easel at the gates of Buckingham Palace in London Less formally, the BT Tower in London broadcast a congratulatory message across the capital after the birth was announced - long after it had taken place A Right Royal Timeline: What happened, and when we were told Sunday night: Meghan and her mother Doria are driven in secrecy to London's Portland hospital accompanied by royal protection officers Monday, 5.26am: Meghan gives birth 6.30am: Senior members of the Royal family are informed 1pm to 2pm: Palace aides try to send emails to alert the media that Meghan had 'gone into labour' - despite the fact the baby had been born six hours previously. But most outlets do not receive the emails. 1.30pm: Most of the media (and the rest of the world) still know nothing, but a spokesman for the Sussexes calls Sky News to arrange coverage of Harry's statement. 1.45pm: Sky News exclusively reports Meghan is in labour. Sky was randomly selected as the pool broadcaster and distributed the footage as soon as it went to air, but it was seven minutes before it arrived with the BBC, and too late for ITV to cover in their 1.45pm lunchtime news bulletin. 2.03pm: The Palace's email statement finally sends successfully to all outlets. 2.15pm: Harry pre-records his charmingly gleeful statement about the couple's to-die-for son. 2.37pm: The Sussexes' Instagram account posts a picture saying 'It's a Boy', and the palace issues a press release announcing the birth 2.40pm: Harry's statement is broadcast Tuesday, 12.28pm: Palace PR officials issue apology over the day's timings and announcements. But they still won't confirm where the baby was born, or explain why the world was told the Duchess was in labour when she'd already given birth. Advertisement Meanwhile, the world new nothing of this and assumed she was still in Windsor, possibly on the verge of being induced with her baby more than a week overdue. It was not until hours later, at 1pm, that the Sussexes new communications chief Sara Latham arranged for emails to be sent to news outlets. It may not be a coincidence that the Anglo-American Kensington Palace operation timed the announcement to arrive at 8am Eastern Standard Time, in the middle of the American morning news shows. But the emails didn't send. Ms Latham, 48, later explained there had been a 'colossal tech failure' which meant the email informing the press did not reach most inboxes until more than an hour after it was sent. She said: 'We sent emails which showed as sent at 1327, 1349, 1403,' according to The Telegraph. However in the meantime, Sky News (which had been picked at random to be the 'pool' broadcaster which would syndicate its footage to all networks) had received the crucial call from the Palace to set up the Prince Harry announcement. So at 1.45pm, which most outlets still in the dark, the Murdoch channel broke the news to the world that Meghan was 'in labour'. Newsrooms around the world scrambled to catch up. To make matters even more confusing, Buckingham Palace's press office was still denying the baby had been born, according to a BBC source quoted in the Sun. Less than an hour later, with journalists' and royal watchers' heads still spinning, Harry and Meghan's Instagram account posted a picture saying 'it's a boy'. Yesterday Kensington Palace apologised 'profusely' for the technical glitch on which they blamed arrival of the 1pm emails, and for the 'inconvenience it caused' But the apology leaves a number of questions unanswered. The birth was officially announced on the Instagram page of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at 2.37pm, just a short nine hours after it happened It might be understandable that the son of Princess Diana might want to keep the world's media away from speculating about the health of his wife and son through the course of her labour. But why, if the duchess had a healthy baby at 5.26am, was the world kept completely in the dark for more than eight hours? And why was it announced first that she had gone into labour, when in fact the baby had been born? Why if Harry's announcement had been planned all along - as was later made clear - was the media not briefed in advance what it could expect, rather than a single phonecall to a single broadcaster? And why, contrary to traditional and protocol, have the Sussexes insisted on keeping secret the names of the medical team who helped with the birth and the location of the delivery - when it will be legally recorded on the birth certificate anyway? She has worked as an aide to the Obamas, the Clintons, and Tony Blair, but Sara Latham may find the questions she faces in the coming days the most challenging of her career. How Meghan and Harrys new right-hand woman has spun for Left-wing royalty: New adviser has political pedigree after working for Tony Blair, the Obamas and the Clintons by Tom Leonard in New York for The Daily Mail, March 16 2019 Public relations is not a job for the faint-hearted, but even seasoned practitioners of the spin-doctoring arts might hesitate to take on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The royal couple are, after all, taking a step into the unknown as they and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge divide their respective households. And Harry and Meghans recent public utterances suggest they have a radically different vision of their future to the royal tradition. Those who foresaw Meghan forging a more star-studded, international and high-profile role for her and her husband than merely opening libraries and handing out bravery awards may be starting to think they are right. For the Sussexes have now recruited a high-powered and impeccably well-connected communications director who has worked not only for Bill and Hillary Clinton but also Tony Blair. Like the Duchess, Sara Latham is an American who has acquired dual US-UK citizenship. She also enjoys a reputation as a wily political operator with deep roots in the Democrat and New Labour camps. Ms Latham is an American with duel citizenship and has her roots in the Democrat party and New Labour. She has worked with Tony Blair, She was brought in to help choreograph Bill Clintons re-election campaign in 1996, helped to sneak in Barack Obamas proposed Cabinet nominations for secret interviews after his election in 2008, and helped prepare Hillary Clinton for the White House as part of what was described as her covert operations team. There may have been an added attraction for what appears to have been a selection made by the duchess, rather than Prince Harry. She hasnt hidden her loathing of Donald Trump, describing him on US TV as misogynistic and publicly supporting Mrs Clintons rival presidential campaign. Appointing a PR chief with a long-standing link to the Clintons who of course Mr Trump hates may be seen as a snub to the president. Sources say the couple met Miss Latham, 48, only this year and were immediately drawn to her firm but fair approach. It is possible they were introduced via the duchesss Hollywood friend George Clooney, whose wife Amal attended Meghans recent and lavish baby shower festivities in New York. Clooney was involved in raising funds for the Hillary campaign. A former colleague yesterday described Miss Latham as very smart and very good at dealing with difficult characters. She is, he added, very diplomatically adept and not in it for the money. It is estimated she is on a salary of 140,000 which is relatively modest for what she could be earning in the corporate sector. Miss Latham had recently rejoined the London PR firm, Freuds, as its managing partner. Ms Latham was brought in to help choreograph Bill Clintons re-election campaign in 1996, helped to sneak in Barack Obamas proposed Cabinet nominations for secret interviews after his election in 2008, and helped prepare Hillary Clinton for the White House as part of what was described as her covert operations team Reporting to the Queens press secretary Donal McCabe, Miss Latham will start her new job in the spring; the couples baby is rumoured to be expected next month. Miss Latham will no doubt be paid as much as the palace could afford but spinning for the Sussexes would be no job for an amateur. She seems to have risen effortlessly through the political and corporate worlds in a career that has seen her repeatedly assist global figures including allies of the Clintons and Tony Blair. After being brought in for Bill Clintons successful 1996 re-election campaign, she worked as special assistant to Mr Clintons chief of staff, John Podesta. Between 1996 and 2000, Miss Latham held other White House roles including deputy assistant to the president and, until 2000, deputy director of presidential scheduling. That position brought her close to the then-first lady. After George W Bush won the 2000 presidential election, she moved to Brussels as a government affairs adviser for software giant Microsoft. The next year, she moved again, this time to London to become managing director of Philip Gould Associates, the PR firm set up by the late Lord Gould, the former Labour strategy and polling adviser who was close to Tony Blair. The Blair connection must have helped her move to Freud Communications in 2002. Its founder, Matthew Freud, was not only an ally of Mr Blair, but also had strong Democrat links. In 2005, she was seconded to work for Labours general election campaign, after which she was appointed as special adviser to Tessa Jowell, Mr Blairs culture secretary just as the department learned London would host the 2012 Olympics. Miss Latham left the Government in 2006 to set up her own consultancy. Naturally, her clients reflected her high-level contacts and included the Clinton Foundation and Tony Blair Associates as well as Coca-Cola and the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The shake-up comes as Harry and Meghan prepare for their move away from Kensington Palace to Frogmore Cottage (pictured) on the Windsor Castle estate In 2008, she returned to Washington DC after a farewell party at a trendy Mayfair bar to work again for the Democrats. This time she was employed by Barack Obama as he prepared to enter the White House. He had, of course, defeated her old boss Hillary Clinton in a heated battle for the Democrat nomination. But the Clintons endorsed Mr Obama at the partys 2008 convention, urging supporters to vote for him. An expert, it appears, at helping politicians transition into power, Miss Latham doesnt hang around long in government nor anywhere else, it seems. By 2011 she had returned to the corporate world as non-executive chairman of iEnergizer, a supplier of back-office services to banks which is run by multimillionaire Anil Agarwal. Even in business, she did not allow her political links to wither, and was described in a 2012 report as the go-to girl for top Democrats visiting London. Miss Latham reportedly advised Michelle Obama on which restaurants to visit in the UK. The year after it was back to politics to join Hillary Clintons campaign for president. Miss Latham was appointed chief of staff to John Podesta, now chairman of Mrs Clintons campaign. A presidential candidates selection of running mate is an enormously sensitive operation. John McCain discovered this when he disastrously chose Sarah Palin in 2009 and internal staff tensions were leaked to the media. Mrs Clinton was determined that shouldnt happen again and Miss Latham was asked to oversee a VP selection process that was shrouded in secrecy. As part of a covert operations team, Miss Latham marshalled reports drawn up by 15 law firms asked to vet candidates. She then printed them out in secret and posted them to Mrs Clinton. As Mrs Clinton flew with Senator Tim Kaine her eventual choice to the Florida rally where she would break the news, Miss Latham lightened the mood by persuading him to pull out his harmonica. He obliged, playing a Beatles tune. Confident she would win comfortably, Mrs Clinton appointed Miss Latham one of three aides to oversee transition planning for her new administration. That particular transition, of course, was never to happen. Sara Latham likes to move on regularly in her career. One hopes for the duke and duchesss sake she hangs around long enough to handle their often shifting public image. A callous serious of 2001 emails by Purdue Pharma's then-President Richard Sackler has been revealed, showing him dismissing those who became addicted to the company's drugs as 'victimizers' and 'scum'. The previously undisclosed emails were revealed by Connecticut Attorney General William Tong on Wednesday in an expanded lawsuit against members of the billionaire Sackler family and Purdue, maker of the notorious opioid painkiller OxyContin. 'Richard Sackler's outrageous comments show an utter disregard for human life,' Tong said in a statement. 'These emails are far more than a momentary lapse in judgment between friendsthey encapsulate the depraved indifference to human suffering that infected Purdue's entire business model,' Tong added. The 2001 email exchanges by Richard Sackler (left) were revealed in unredacted court filings released on Wednesday by Connecticut Attorney General William Tong (right) The emails include a 2001 email from an acquaintance of Richard Sackler in which the acquaintance states: 'Abusers die, well that is the choice they made, I doubt a single one didn't know of the risks.' Richard Sackler responds: 'Abusers aren't victims; they are the victimizers.' Also in 2001, Richard Sackler corresponded again with the same acquaintance, who wrote: 'You know what the general ignorant public will say, do away with the drug!! Blame the manufactures (sic), Drs., pharmacist, but NEVER NEVER THE CRIMINAL, HE/SHE, (to be politically correct) is never to blame. The email continued: 'Give me a break, lest I THROW UP! The whole thing is a sham and if people die because they abuse it then good riddance.' Richard Sackler responds: 'Unfortunately, when I'm ambushed by 60 Minutes, I can't easily get this concept across. Calling drug addicts 'scum of the earth' will guarantee that I become the poster child for liberals who want to do just want (sic) to distribute the blame to someone else, as you say.' Purdue introduced OxyContin, its time-release formulation of oxycodone, in 1995, and by 2002 annual sales of the drug had hit $1.5 billion. Purdue introduced OxyContin, its time-release formulation of oxycodone, in 1995, and by 2002 annual sales of the drug had hit $1.5 billion In their tone and content, the newly released emails are similar to other statements from Sackler that have been made public through legal fights with Purdue or its controlling family. Richard Sackler told people attending the launch party for OxyContin in the 1990s that it would be 'followed by a blizzard of prescriptions that will bury the competition,' according to court documents filed earlier this year in a separate case brought by the Massachusetts attorney general. The Sackler family later asserted he was making a joke about a heavy snow storm. Since then, Sackler said his thinking about addiction has evolved. In a deposition given in March in a separate case, he was asked by his lawyer about the emails from 2001, when he was company president. It was during a time when public concern about opioid addiction was growing and news outlets were reporting about pharmacy robberies by people seeking drugs. Richard Sackler said in the deposition that he does not see addiction the same way now: 'My views have evolved and changed,' he said. A spokesman for Sackler provided a partial transcript of the deposition in response to the released emails. In it, Sackler told his lawyer, 'I probably was quite emotional when I wrote e-mails at that time.' He said he was responding to emails sent to him 'unprompted' by people who were not medical professionals. 'I overstated my agreement or my disagreement with each,' he said. 'I said, I agree with you. I didn't agree with her, but I just didn't want to engage. It was just too painful.' Family and friends who lost loved ones to opioid overdoses protest outside the headquarters of Purdue Pharma in Stamford, Connecticut last year. In a court filing, nearly 20-year-old emails from a member of the family that owns Purdue cast blame on victims of the opioid crisis About 1,500 of the lawsuits seeking to hold the drug industry accountable for the nation's opioid addiction and overdose crisis are being overseen by a federal judge in Cleveland. That judge is pushing the parties to settle, even as the first trial in the case is scheduled for October. The Connecticut lawsuit, like nearly all of those filed by state governments, is in a state court. An amended complaint was filed in April 22 but some parts of it, including Sackler's emails, were kept secret under a judge's order until Connecticut obtained permission to release the records. Purdue, which has publicly discussed bankruptcy, settled in March with Oklahoma for $270 million ahead of a scheduled trial. On average, 130 people die every day from opioid overdoses in the U.S. - more than three time the number who are murdered - according to the most recent government data. The head of a suburban St. Louis child welfare agency and alternative school for children with severe behavioral problems has been charged with child endangerment and assault. Vincent Damian Hillyer, 59, was arrested on Tuesday after police executed a search warrant at Great Circle Academy, an alternative school that offers boarding in Webster Groves, Missouri. Video obtained from a former employee by KMOV4 is said to show Hillyer placing a 12-year-old boy with Autism in a choke-hold. Hillyer was charged with six felony counts of first-degree child endangerment and misdemeanor counts of attempted child endangerment and fourth-degree assault. Scroll down for video Vincent Damian Hillyer, 59 (left), CEO of Great Circle, a child welfare agency for children with severe behavioral problems, has been accused of putting a 12-year-old with Autism in a choke-hold. Hillyer is said to be on a bench in the video, placing the student in a choke-hold (right) Hillyer is said to be on a bench in the video, placing the student in a choke-hold. The former Great Circle employees said Hillyer does not have any formal training in restraining children, and he would often become aggressive with students at Great Circle. The past employees said they lost their jobs or were laid off because they reported incidents like the one shown on video, creating a hostile environment where people have not spoken out about Hillyer's alleged actions for fear of being fired. 'We went and talked to the police, but they started targeting us because we were the ones who started the initial investigation,' former employee Ricki Simms said. 'I feel like the children aren't safe. They take in children and don't provide the staff with enough training,' former employee Joice Valentine said. 'And then when things go wrong they come and get on the staff. The past employees said they lost their jobs or were laid off because they reported incidents like the one shown on video, creating a hostile environment where people have not spoken out about Hillyer's alleged actions for fear of being fired.The child is shown at right laying on the ground after the alleged choke-hold To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video KMOV Privacy Policy The allegations, which remain largely undisclosed, stem from incidents occurring since March of 2018. Former employees described the work environment as 'toxic and unsafe,' and said they often questioned Hillyer's tactics. Hillyer, who is CEO of Great Circle, has been ordered to have no contact with its residents or staff. 'Working with young clients who have acute behavioral health needs can often be difficult,' Great Circle spokesperson Bev Pfeifer-Harms said in a statement. The organization has six locations throughout the state of Missouri. Pfeifer-Harms said that the investigation into the Webster Groves location which led to Hillyer's arrest was focused on 'care provided in a small number of circumstances.' Former Great Circle employees said Hillyer (pictured) does not have any formal training in restraining children, and he would often become aggressive with students at Great Circle They said they were fired or laid off for reporting the behavior and starting the investigation that led to Hillyer's arrest 'While we remain confident in the therapeutic approach used in our facilities, as an organization, we will fully cooperate with all of those who are investigating this matter,' Pfeifer-Harms said. The Webster Groves school has about 250 students in kindergarten through high school. Great Circle formed in 2009, from a merger of Boys & Girls Town of Missouri and Edgewood Children's Center. The organization provides behavioral health services to thousands of children in state custody and students with mental illness and learning disabilities. In addition to its six schools, Great Circle also operates counseling centers across Missouri and provides home services. The Webster Groves school was visited in September by U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams and other federal health officials who were traveling the country learning about efforts to battle opioid addiction. The office of St. Louis County prosecutor Wesley Bell was closed on Wednesday for a state holiday honoring the birth of President Harry Truman, a native Missourian. Hillyer was arrested as a result of a joint investigation by Webster Groves police and the Missouri Department of Social Services Children's Division. Hillyer's bail has been set at $205,000. No attorney is listed for him in online court records. A Chinese Huawei telecom executive has arrived at a Canadian court wearing her ankle monitor and Manolo Blahnik pumps to fight her release on fraud charges after she was arrested on a U.S. warrant that triggered a diplomatic row. Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was spotted leaving the home she owns in Vancouver on Wednesday to make her way to court. Meng's ankle monitor was clearly visible under her black tea length dress, which she paired with $1,000 Manolo satin pumps. The court appearance begins what is expected to be a long legal battle against the United States' request that she be extradited to face fraud charges. Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was spotted leaving the home she owns in Vancouver on Wednesday to make her way to court Meng's ankle monitor was clearly visible under her black tea length dress, which she paired with $1,000 Manolo satin pumps Canada's justice department said the court will set the next key dates in an extradition process - including the start of the formal hearing for the 47-year-old, which could take months or even years. Meng, who is the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's billionaire founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at Vancouver's airport in December on a U.S. warrant and is fighting extradition on fraud charges that she misled global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran. She is expected to make only a brief appearance before the judge to deal with matters described by officials as 'administrative in nature'. Her lawyers are also likely to renew their objections to her December arrest while seeking an easing of her bail conditions. The largely procedural hearing is the latest development in a case that has escalated tensions between China and both the U.S. and Canada. The U.S. wants to put Meng on trial on fraud charges for allegedly violating Iran sanctions and lying about it to American banks, but the case has become a major irritant for Ottawa. The court appearance begins what is expected to be a long legal battle against the United States' request that she be extradited to face fraud charges Meng was arrested at Vancouver's airport in December on a U.S. warrant and is fighting extradition on fraud charges that she misled global banks about Huawei's relationship with a company operating in Iran Following her arrest, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and Canadian businessman Michael Spavor in what observers saw as retaliation. China later announced it suspected Kovrig of spying and stealing state secrets and alleged Spavor had provided him with intelligence. Two other Canadians convicted of drug trafficking, meanwhile, were sentenced to death. Beijing also recently blocked Canadian shipments of canola and pork worth billions of dollars. Canada has accused Beijing of arbitrarily detaining both Kovrig and Spavor, and called the death penalties for Canadians Fen Wei and Robert Schellenberg 'cruel and inhumane'. It has also rallied the support of a dozen countries, including Britain, France, Germany and the US, as well as the EU, NATO and the G7, in its diplomatic feud with China. Most recently, Ottawa has pressed Washington - which is threatening a trade war with Beijing - to step up its pressure on behalf of the detained Canadians. Meng smiled for cameras as she left her home in Vancouver en route to the court on Wednesday 'Canadian lives are at stake,' an unnamed Canadian official stressed to broadcaster CTV. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has insisted that Meng's case would be dealt with by the courts and not politicized. He sacked his ambassador to China in January for suggesting that Meng had a 'strong case' against extradition, citing remarks by President Donald Trump that he might seek to have the charges against Meng dropped in exchange for trade concessions from China. Meng was released on bail mid-December in Vancouver, where she owns two residences, on a $10 million bond. She has also been ordered to wear an electronic anklet and hand over her passports. She is now suing the Canadian government, alleging false imprisonment and a breach of her rights. In court documents, Meng alleges that border officials and federal police delayed executing the US warrant by three hours during her stopover at the Vancouver airport in order to question her and search her luggage and electronic devices, hoping to glean evidence to be used against her at trial. Huawei is also facing separate U.S. charges for allegedly stealing American technology, and in recent months has faced a U.S. campaign to blacklist it over espionage fears. Canada has said it will decide before a federal election in October whether or not to join the U.S. and other Five Eyes intelligence partners in banning Huawei from Canada's fifth generation wireless networks. Freshman Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said Tuesday night that Republicans have essentially banned abortion in Georgia after passing the 'fetal heartbeat' bill. Ocasio-Cortez said the bill, which prohibits women in the state from seeking an abortion after six weeks, is a 'backdoor ban' for abortion. She pointed out that at six weeks pregnant many woman don't even know they conceived or could just think their period is late. '6 weeks pregnant' = 2 weeks late on your period. Most of the men writing these bills don't know the first thing about a woman's body outside of the things they want from it,' Ocasio-Cortez posted to Twitter late Tuesday night. 'It's relatively common for a woman to have a late period + not be pregnant,' she continued. 'So this is a backdoor ban.' Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed the bill into law Tuesday morning. In a short Twitter thread late Tuesday night Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez that Georgia's 'fetal heartbeat' law is essentially an abortion ban. She added that when a woman is six weeks pregnant the timeline for legal abortions in the bill they could think their period is late or not even be aware they conceived The freshman representative from New York said the law 'ignores basic biology' 'Georgia is a state that values life,' Kemp said at the bill signing. 'We protect the innocent, we champion the vulnerable, we stand up and speak for those that are unable to speak for themselves.' Since a heartbeat can be detected at different times throughout a pregnancy, the crafters of the bill decided to put the timeline for women's legal right to an abortion at six weeks one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the nation. In another tweet Tuesday, Ocasio-Cortez says the new law 'ignores basic biology.' 'For context, this kicks in within days of a typical at-home test working,' she said. 'If you were sexually assaulted (stress delays cycle), took a morning-after pill (throws off cycle), or have an irregular cycle, you'd have no idea. There are a TON of ways this law ignores basic biology.' The bill is likely to face legal challenges, which Kemp says he is prepared for, as many abortion advocates claim the law violates the 1973 Supreme Court Roe v. Wade decision, which made it legal for women to seek an abortion. 'Our job is to do what is right, not what is easy,' Kemp said. 'We are called to be strong and courageous, and we will not back down.' Georgia became the fourth state this year to enact the so-called 'fetal heartbeat' law. Arkansas, North Dakota, Iowa and Kentucky passed the bill, but they were all overturned by the courts. Ohio and Mississippi both have fetal heartbeat laws in place, but Mississippi's law is currently facing a legal challenge. The wave of 'heartbeat law' passages comes as New York and Virginia, both Democratic states, began signing 'late term abortion' laws, which allows a pregnancy to be terminated during labor. 'If a mother is in labor. I can tell you exactly what would happen,' Virginia Governor Ralph Northam said in defending the bill. 'The infant would be delivered. The infant would be kept comfortable. The infant would be resuscitated, if that's what the mother and the family desired, and then a discussion would ensue between the physicians and the mother.' The controversy over Northan's comments and the Virginia bill came the same week that a new law in New York was passed allowing abortions up until birth. Kemp signed the 'fetal heartbeat' bill after he defeated Democratic gubernatorial challenger Stacey Abrams in the 2018 midterm elections. Abrams felt that she should have won the elections and claims Kemp only won because of 'racist' voter suppression laws in Georgia. Georgia's Governor Brian Kemp signed the bill on Tuesday morning, claiming he was prepared for a legal challenge. 'Our job is to do what is right, not what is easy. We are called to be strong and courageous, and we will not back down,' Kemp said during the signing Democrat Stacey Abrams challenged Kemp in the 2018 gubernatorial elections, but was unsuccessful. She claims she would have won had it not been for racist voter suppression laws Kemp beat Abrams by nearly 50,000 votes and held 50.2 per cent of the vote, while Abrams earned 48.8 per cent support from voters in the state. The other almost 1 per cent went to Libertarian candidate Ted Metz. If Abrams had secured victory in the 2018 elections, the 'fetal heartbeat' bill would not have been signed by the governor. Democrats, especially Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, were pushing Abrams to run for Republican Senator David Perdue's Senate seat in 2020 in a state that has been Republican-controlled for about two decades. At the end of April Abrams declared she would not be running for Senate next year, without ruling out a potential run for president. She has made it clear she does not believe she would need to enter the crowded Democratic primary field for 2020 until September, if she were to launch a campaign. Two members of a gang who built guns 'from scratch' on a Sussex industrial estates have been jailed for 30 years. Kyle Wood and Greg Akehurst produced semi-automatic guns from a warehouse in Hailsham, East Sussex, along with Mark Kinman. The unit was Britain's first illicit customised firearms factory uncovered by police, who have linked the weapons produced to two attempted murders. Akehurst was sentenced to 18 years' imprisonment at Kingston Crown Court today while Wood was sentenced to 11-and-a-half years. Kinman died in prison. CCTV showed Wood running from armed officers when police raided the gun factory unit Kyle Wood, left, and Greg Akehurst, pictured on surveillance footage, were jailed today for running a gun factory A gun made by Mark Kinman, who pleaded guilty to the manufacture of guns, but died before he could be sentenced One of the finished firearms seized by police in Britain's first 'customised gun factory' Wood, 30, was chased down by armed National Crime Agency detectives during a raid in Hailsham, East Sussex. Greg Akehurst, also 30, was arrested with a pistol in his waistband after surrendering to police when the factory was busted on August 18 last year. He was caught with a homemade gun and three magazines of ammunition, which officers said were ready for sale. The guns and homemade ammunition were sold by Wood and Akehurst to criminals for 5,000 each. Kinman, 63, was a mechanic who decided to turn his hand to producing illegal guns modelled on a World War Two pistol. The father-of-three produced the guns from the warehouse he once used to produce gear boxes. He died while on remand at HMP High Down last year in circumstances unknown, pending the results of an inquest. Kyle Wood (left) got 11-and-a-half years today, while Greg Akehurst (right) got 18 years The pair produced pistols in this workshop on a industrial estate in Hailsham, Sussex The gang had the materials to create 121 pistols when the National Crime Agency moved in He claimed during his police interview that he 'wasn't a gangster' and 'just got involved with something he shouldn't have'. The NCA raid revealed the trio had enough materials to create 121 handguns. Investigators believed the site was active for around six to eight months, having previously been a gearbox factory. Another member of the gang, Mark Kinman, died in prison before he could be sentenced The guns have been traced to eight crime scenes - including one where a bullet was found in a victim's chest in Wandsworth, south west London, last September. And the same weapon was linked by a forensic scientist to a shooting in Brixton, south London, last October. Senior detectives claim there could be 'tens' of the guns made at the factory still on the streets of the UK - with the exact figure unknown to the NCA. Armed officers heard a series of gunshot tests inside the unit and arrested the three men. The NCA and Sussex police officers teamed up as part of Operation Junonia. Chris Farrimond, NCA director of investigations, said: 'There were three individuals on the day, it was a deserted industrial estate. 'The individuals did not respond well to our challenges - Oakhurst drew a firearm and was tasered - he was very lucky. 'Pictures don't do the scene of the factory justice; it took us three days to search, with 400 exhibits at that scene alone. 'Each gun comes with a small extension on the end, we found 121 of these. We are unaware of how many were made for the criminal market. 'Some items were made by subcontractors who were not aware of what they produced.' The unit looked like countless others of industrial estates around the UK. Others working in the area expressed disbelief when they found out it had been a gun factory Officers discovered two homemade guns and a Browning 1922 pistol 'with Wehrmacht stampings' used as a template for production. Bullets were made by purchasing empty shells and filling them with 'shotgun propellant'. Ammunition or weapons were found all over London - in Croydon, Kingston-upon-Thames, Finsbury Park and Kilburn - as well as Basingstoke in Hants. All three men were later charged with offences relating to the possession of firearms and remanded in custody. The search of the factory, which took several days, uncovered gun templates and parts that could have been made into 121 guns. Mr Farrimond added: 'This job is significant from our point of view because it is the first occasion that we are aware where there has been a fully functioning firearms factory discovered operating in the UK 'It's a big deal from our point of view, because of the scale of it and because we can trace the firearms onto the streets and demonstrate that they were used for criminal purposes.' A baby boy in Illinois and a newborn girl in Florida have been found abandoned in dumpsters within the same 24 hours. In Chicago a mother and her daughter helped save the life of a 'cold as concrete' male found inside a shopping bag dumped on top a trash can in an alleyway Tuesday. He was immediately rushed to the fire station on the 1700 block of North Pulaski Avenue after a woman went to investigate a blanket atop a dumpster on the 1700 block of North Keystone Avenue and heard whining. Then on Wednesday two people walking at an apartment complex near Boca Raton heard crying coming from the bin and found the baby Wednesday morning. Woman and her daughter found a newborn boy on top of a dumpster Tuesday in Chicago. Wednesday near Boca Raton, Florida a baby girl was found in a bin They rushed baby to local fire department and paramedics did CPR on the lifeless infant. Paramedic Melanie Howe said: 'We're so lucky that this little guy has improved so much' In the Illinois case it's believed the baby was born one or two hours before it was discovered naked 'blue, unresponsive, no pulse' around 4pm after losing blood from its still attached and unclamped umbilical cord. It had to be shocked back to life when taken in from the cold rainy conditions in Hermosa, Northwest Chicago. 'The baby was cold as concrete,' Paramedic Field Chief Patrick Fitzmaurice said at a news conference Tuesday about the moment firefighter Oshita opened the door to the Good Samaritans. 'I wasn't too optimistic, but like I said to the lieutenant, I wasn't ready to lose this one today, and neither were they and they worked very hard. 'This poor kid was minutes away from having no chance at all.' The paramedic chief praised the woman for taking the child to the fire house after finding it discarded inside a towel, noting that there may have been a different outcome if she tried to drive it to hospital or called 911 instead. Paramedic Melanie Howe was one of the two people who performed CPR on the infant who wasn't breathing by the time it arrived at the fire station. She performed the difficult task of securing an IV due to a newborn's tiny veins. 'We're so lucky that this little guy has improved so much,' Howe said. Lieutenant Goecke also worked on the baby who appeared to be full term and looked to weigh approximately six pounds - while it was being transported to Norwegian American Hospital. The child was only one of two hours old and still had his umbilical cord attached. It was unclamped and he was losing blood when found on the 1700 block of North Keystone Avenue Chicago Fire Dept. Field Chief Patrick Fitzmaurice said the boy was 'cold as concrete' and had to be shocked back to life But in a tweet Tuesday the Chicago Fire Dept, Larry Langford, Director said the baby's condition 'has been upgraded to stable from very critical'. 'The little guy is crying and kicking,' he said as the newborn was about to be transferred to Lurie Children's Hospital on Chicago Ave. Illinois will not ask questions if a parent decides to drop off a child with a member of staff at a hospital, fire or police station within 30 days of the birth. The Safe Haven law was passed in 2001 and since then 131 infants lives have been saved because of it according to Dawn Geras who lobbied to pass it. Authorities are now looking for the boy's mother whose identity is unknown. Lieutenant Goecke (left) did CPR on the baby who firefighter Oshita (right) open the door to 'I don't know what it's like to have a child, be pregnant, and be in some horrible circumstances where you are driven to do something like this. It almost sounds diabolical,' Patrick Fitzmaurice, paramedics field chief, said in a video from WGNTV. 'But come to us, call 911. We would've taken the baby to one hospital and her to another hospital. We won't judge. Don't leave your baby in an alley. Come to a firehouse. Leave the baby there. Give the kid a chance.' He added: 'Come to us, call 911. We would've taken the baby to one hospital and her to another hospital,' Fitzmaurice said about the mother. 'We won't judge. Don't leave your baby in an alley. Come to a firehouse. Leave the baby there. Give the kid a chance.' Paramedic Howe who has two of her own children echoed his statement, adding that she had a supportive husband when her children were delivered. Boy was taken to Norwegian American Hospital and condition 'was upgraded to stable from very critical' before being transferred to a children's hospital It came before Florida sheriff's deputies said a newborn girl was found alive inside a trash bin Wednesday. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office was alerted after a construction worker found the girl, WPTV reported a neighbor said. Spokeswoman Teri Barbera said the baby girl was taken to a hospital for evaluation and is expected to survive. Further information was not immediately available. Like in Illinois, under Florida law, unwanted newborns can be dropped off anonymously at a hospital or fire station with no questions asked. The child is then placed up for adoption. by Kamran Chaudhry The Data Darbar is the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia, which welcomes up to one million pilgrims a year. The suicide bomber wanted to hit the police patrol that controlled one of the sanctuary's entrances. Fr. James Channan: "Another sad example of religious terrorism". In the month of Ramadan, mosques and shrines are crowded with worshipers. Moulana Tahir Ashrafi, president of the Ulema Council of Pakistan, thanks for the messages of solidarity from Christians and other religious minorities. Lahore (AsiaNews) - At least 9 dead and 24 wounded is the first assessment of a suicide attack this morning at 8.45 am near the Sufi shrine of Data Darbar. Of the 9 victims, five are policemen. After emergency relief, the sanctuary was isolated. The faithful have all been removed and for now it is closed to visits. Many streets in the center have been closed and several commercial offices are also now closed. The Data Darbar is the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia and was built to guard the tomb of Abul Hassan Ali Hujwiri, a Muslim mystic who lived in the 11th century. Embellished and expanded in the Moghul period (XVI century), then in the 800 and finally in the 1880s, it is a continuous destination of pilgrimages. Up to one million pilgrims visit each year. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which took place at the beginning of Ramadan. Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the violence, and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. The police believe that the goal of the suicide attack was precisely the police who control the sanctuary 24 hours a day. In a first reconstruction, it seems that the suicide bomber targeted policemen who controlled one of the sanctuary's entrances. According to the bomb technicians, the bomb contained at least seven pounds of explosive material. Fr James Channan, regional coordinator of the United Religions Initiative Pakistan, compares the terrorist gesture in Lahore with the explosions in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday. He told AsiaNews: "This is another sad example of religious terrorism. The terrorists are doing everything to create fear among the faithful and block them in living their religious practices. This explosion in the holy month of Ramadan is terrible. In this month of fasting, mosques and shrines are always crowded with faithful. We want to express our solidarity with the government, the security forces and the families of the victims ". Moulana Tahir Ashrafi, president of the Ulema Council of Pakistan, thanked for the messages of solidarity from Christians and other religious minorities. "This - he said - is an attack against humanity, an attempt to sabotage the peace and stability of our country. We remain united in this time of mourning. We are very encouraged to see that in New Zealand non-Muslims watch over mosques after devastating terrorist attacks. And we are grateful to the Lahore police and to the sacrifice of their lives, which saved thousands of faithful who filled the sanctuary. We are not afraid of terrorists: our mosques and sanctuaries will remain crowded ". A New Jersey police officer threatened to 'knock out' two men and set his dog on them during a traffic stop if they refused to comply with his orders. Footage shows Atlantic City officer Andrew Jaques unleashing a verbal tirade against driver Antoine Jones, 22 his and passenger Brian Wilson, 21, after another officer, Glenn Anthony Abrams Jr, pulled them over on February 14, 2017. The video, obtained by NJ.com, forms the basis of a lawsuit in which the two African American men accuse Jacques, Abrams Jr and Atlantic City of racial profiling and false imprisonment. The lawsuit alleges that Jaques pulled up to the scene 'like a lunatic' and then approached the passenger-side window of their 2001 Saturn before verbally abusing them. Footage shows Atlantic City officer Andrew Jaques, (pictured), unleashing a verbal tirade against driver Antoine Jones, 22 his and passenger Brian Wilson, 21, after another officer, pulled them over on February 14, 2017 Wilson began to record the tense exchange with his cellphone, leading Jaques to reach into the car and snatch the device away, the lawsuit claims. Jones continued to videotape the incident and they asked officers why they were being pulled over and whether Wilson could have his phone back. In the footage, Jaques is heard saying: 'Brian, listen theres two ways that this could go. Take that phone and stick it out of my face. Im not going to tell you again. Listen, my camera is on, so dont worry about it. Wilson then asked for his cellphone back and asked why they were being pulled over. Jaques then replied: 'Im going to explain this one time and one time only, the officer continued. 'This is going to go two ways. You are going to act like a gentleman and Im going to treat you like a gentleman. 'You frog the f**k up, I guarantee you that 90-pound dog is going to come out and rip the f**k out of you.' Jaques then threatened to leave them unconscious if they put his hand in his face, which was a reference to them recording the interaction. Atlantic City officers Andrew Jaques and Glenn Anthony Abrams Jr are seen approaching the passenger door. Jacques grew irate when the men started recording the exchange One of the men is heard saying: 'I don't want no problems, it doesn't have to be like that.' He then said: 'Put your hand in my face again, Im going to knock you the f**k out. Im that f*****g guy, you understand me? So calm the f**k down. You feel me?.' He then continued: 'You start acting like a f*****g fool, I will drag you out of this f*****g window,' Jaques said. 'You understand? You want to frog the fk up, Ive got no problem. We will step out and bang.' Abrams does not talk or appear to intervene during the incident.The video ends after Jones stopped recording when Jaques said they were under 'lawful detention' and could not use their phones as a result. When the footage ended, Wilson and Jones were ordered out of the car and were searched by the two officers. They also searched the car, according to the lawsuit. Brian Wilson was riding in the passenger seat of his car and was heard telling Jaques he didnt want any trouble. In the footage, Jaques repeatedly threatened the men with violence and said he would set his 90lb dog on them to 'rip the f**k' out of you. Jones and Wilson were then released without charges and they still don't know why they were stopped. A seven-count lawsuit brought by the men includes allegations of racial profiling, illegal search and false imprisonment against Abrams, Jaques and Atlantic City. The lawsuit states that the incident reflects 'standard operating procedure' for Atlantic City police officers who stop, search and harass people of color in ways that 'frequently lead to violence or false criminal charges.' An Atlantic City Police Department spokesman declined to give a comment to NJ.com and referred questions to the city solicitors office. A spokesperson for the Atlantic City mayors office declined to comment, saying they have been advised not to comment on ongoing litigation. Jaques, who has now retired after serving for 12 years, was fired by the department in 2006 but returned to the force after being reinstated by the Civil Service Commission, the Astbury Park Press reported. In one example, a federal judge wrote in 2007 that a jury could find Atlantic City turned a 'blind eye' to Jacques behaviour, which she described as as 'short-fused' and volatile. The publication reported that Jacques was the subject of at least five internal affairs investigations in an eight-month period in 2001 and 2002, according to federal civil court records. The teenage son of celebrity chef Rachel Allen has pleaded guilty to three drugs charges following his arrest last year. Joshua Allen, 19, appeared at Cork Circuit Criminal Court today where he pleaded guilty to two drugs charges that occurred at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Shanagarry, Co Cork on August 30, 2018. He pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply when the market value exceeded 13,000 (11,200) or more. Mr Allen, with an address in Ballinamona, Shanagarry Co Cork, pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine on the same occasion. Rachel Allen with her son Joshua. He admitted drugs charges for possession of cocaine and cannabis after being arrested at at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Shanagarry, Co Cork Joshua Allen, son of celebrity chef Rachel Allen, pictured arriving with his legal counsel at Midleton District Court for an earlier hearing He also pleaded guilty to one other charge related to the possession of cannabis on the September 5, 2018, at Ballinamona, Shanagarry, Co Cork. Mr Allen appeared in court accompanied by a male family member. He was wearing a dark suit. Siobhan Lankford, SC, representing Mr Allen said that he had signed a plea of guilty going forward from the District Court on six charges. However, Ms Lankford stated that due to a duplication her client was now pleading guilty to three charges which encompass the other offences. Ms Lankford said that her client was a 'young man' who had never been before the courts. She stressed that Allen was taking 'full responsibility' for his actions. The court heard that Mr Allen is in treatment. A probation report will be compiled prior to the sentencing hearing on November 8. The teenager was first arrested on August 30, 2018, after Revenue officers seized 1.5kg of cannabis herb destined for his family's famous cookery school estate Judge Brian O'Callaghan remanded Mr Allen on continuing bail until his next court appearance. There was no application for legal aid in the case. In a statement last year Rachel Allen and her husband Isaac said they were 'devastated' by the arrest of their son Joshua in relation to drugs charges. The couple issued a statement in a bid to 'alleviate the frenzy of enquiry and speculation on going in relation to our son Joshua.' Mr and Mrs Allen said in the statement that Joshua had admitted his guilt and was cooperating with Gardai. The teenager's charges relate to the possession of cannabis with intent to sell or supply at Ballymaloe Cookery School, Shanagarry, Co Cork in Ireland The couple said their son had made a 'huge mistake' which would lead to 'profound consequences' for him. Rachel Allen was brought up in Dublin and left home at 18 to study at the internationally renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School. She is a TV chef and author and teaches in Ballymaloe, and has written four best selling cookery books and has appeared in television series for RTE and the BBC. The late Myrtle and Ivan Allen opened Ballymaloe, their home, to the public as a restaurant in 1964 and later as a guesthouse. Ballymaloe House is now internationally known arising out of the work of its founders and amongst others chefs Darina and Rachel Allen. Prince Charles thrilled audiences in Berlin when he spoke German to reveal his joy at becoming a grandfather for the fourth time. The heir to the throne delivered a speech at the British Ambassador's residence in the country's capital, speaking part of the address in their native tongue. Charles made reference to his new grandson Archie as he spoke of how he hopes the bond between Britain and Germany will remain close in a clear nod to Britain's departure from the EU. Today Prince Harry and Meghan unveiled their son to the world, and revealed his name: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The heir to the throne delivered a speech at the British Ambassador's residence in the country's capital, speaking part of the address in their native tongue Charles (speaking next to Camilla and the British Ambassador to Germany Sir Sebastian Wood) made reference to his new grandson as he spoke of how he hopes the bond between Britain and Germany will remain close in a clear nod to Britain's departure from the EU Addressing a crowd at an event at the British Ambassador's residence to celebrate the Queen's birthday yesterday, Charles said in German: 'It is also a particular pleasure to be back in Berlin once again - especially as the grandfather of a brand new grandson.' Also in German he added: 'Today, we are much more than just neighbours. We are friends and natural partners. 'Entwined by mutual experiences, mutual interests and mutual values and our futures are deeply entwined.' Prince Charles is not fluent in German, although his father, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, is proficient in the language. Little Archie Harrison (pictured) made his very first public appearance at a photocall alongside a thrilled Prince Harry and Meghan in the grounds of Windsor Castle, where the new family have been holed up since the historic birth on Monday The world has been given its first ever glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's newborn son today as his beaming parents finally showed off their 'own little bundle of joy' to millions of royal fans across the globe Little Archie Harrison was introduced to the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Meghan's mother Doria by his proud parents Charles is also believed to be able to speak a little Welsh, and Gaelic. Today it was revealed the new royal baby will not have a royal title like his cousins, the Cambridge's children, but will be known simply as Master Archie. The two-day-old infant was lovingly cradled by his adoring father and watched attentively by Meghan, who was herself pictured for the first time in six weeks since withdrawing from public life ahead of the birth. The prince's speech yesterday came on the first day of a four day tour of the country with his wife Camilla, who were in Berlin yesterday and travelled to Leipzig today. Camilla was also given a huge teddy bear to give to the new royal baby, which bore a white t-shirt which said 'Baby Sussex' in the middle of a number of hearts Prince Charles meets royal fans who had turned out in Leipzig to greet them on the second day of their royal tour of Germany The couple had arrived in the German city just before Prince Harry and Meghan unveiled their son to the world, and the huge crowds that turned out to greet them were keen to pass on their congratulations They have been met by hundreds of well-wishers who congratulated on the arrival of their new grandson, and offered them gifts for the newborn. Speaking yesterday Charles added: 'The people of Britain have enjoyed the most profound connections with the people of Germany, and indeed the wider European continent, for thousands of years. 'We have long been fascinated by each other - admiring of each other's literature and music, inspired by each other's ideas, and dependent upon each other's economies for the trade that enhances our shared prosperity.' He continued: 'Every year, two million British people visit Germany and three million Germans visit the UK. Over two hundred thousand of our citizens live in each other's countries. Yesterday Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornall visited the Brandenburg Gate where they were met by hundreds of wellwishers They were then greeted by hundreds of wellwishers at the Brandenburg Gate. One woman from Belgium said to the prince: 'Congratulations on the new baby' 'Our economies are so vitally interconnected, with mutual trade between our countries worth 150 billion euros a year. 'Indeed, this year the British Chamber of Commerce in Germany celebrates its centenary, which is a symbol of the enduring nature of the economic relationship between us.' Addressing the importance of an enduring relationship between the UK and Germany, Charles said: 'It is a relationship in transition. 'But whatever the shape of our future relationship, and whatever is negotiated and agreed between governments and institutions, it is more clear to me than it has ever been, that the bonds between us will, and must, endure - and that our young people, and future generations, will have as much cause to cherish those bonds as our generation has had. The heir to the throne and Camilla arrived at Berlin Tegel Airport yesterday where they were greeted by a Guard of Honour 'I can only say, for my own part, that my commitment to the relationship between Britain and Germany is both heartfelt and steadfast.' The prince added: 'Ladies and Gentlemen, our countries and our people have been through so much together. As we look towards the future, I can only hope that we can also pledge to redouble our commitment to each other and to the ties between us.' While visiting the Brandenburg Gate, Charles replied to one comment of 'Congratulations on the new grandchild', by quipping: 'Thank you, I'm collecting a rather large number of them'. The duchess meanwhile was given a onesie decorated with German art as well as a balloon with the words 'It's a boy' written on it. Camilla said: 'As soon as we return I will deliver it to them, direct from Germany. I'm sure they will be thrilled.' And today, as they visited Leipzig, a royal well-wisher showed the Duchess of Cornwall the first official photo of the royal baby on a mobile phone. She smiled and said: 'Thank you for showing this to me.' Camilla was also given a huge teddy bear to give to the new royal baby, which bore a white t-shirt which said 'Baby Sussex' in the middle of a number of hearts. A police driver who was hauled to a disciplinary hearing because he knocked down a suspected moped mugger was cleared of misconduct today after a two-year ordeal that has been labelled an 'absolute travesty'. PC Edwin Sutton, who said he wanted to protect the public from a high-speed chase, faced the sack from the Met Police. He was accused of breaching professional standards by using a 'dangerous' method to stop the teenager - suspected of pinching a handbag - when he drove into the moped's path. The 49-year-old road policing officer moved his marked car into the path of the moped being ridden by a 17-year-old boy - named only as 'Mr G' - in East Finchley in May 2017 to stop him speeding off. Although the teenager suffered 'serious injuries' when he flew off his bike the disciplinary panel found today that none of allegations against PC Sutton were proven and he acted 'conscientiously' in the circumstances. Pictured: A Metropolitan Police vehicle after performing a 'hard stop' on a moped to try and tackle spiralling crime in the capital In the wake of the officer's two-year ordeal the head of the Police Federation in London slammed the IOPC (Independent Office for Police Conduct) and said that PC Sutton has been through 'hell and back' since the incident. Ken Marsh said: 'I'm over the moon for him because he's been through hell and back over the past two years for doing his job. 'Why are they putting our colleagues in this position? This was a policy of the IOPC. 'It should never have come to this. 'Going forward we need legislation put in place in which it's very clear for all my colleagues to go out and do their jobs. 'If not it will get to the point where we are not going out and protecting the public anymore. I don't want to see that nor do my colleagues. 'But we need to be looked after and protected when we are just doing our jobs. 'I'm all for transparency but it has to be an equal playing field and not a witch hunt directed by the IOPC.It's an absolute travesty.' The police released this video last year, showing specially trained drivers pursuing fleeing crooks on their bikes to warn muggers of the new tactic The 49-year-old road policing officer moved his marked car into the path of the moped being ridden by a 17-year-old boy - named only as 'Mr G' - in East Finchley in May 2017 to stop him speeding off. But Mr G sped up to a 'considerable speed' and was knocked from the moped when he ploughed into the police car, the hearing was told. Mr G suffered 'serious' injuries when he was thrown from the moped in north London, but no further details were revealed. Clearing him at a police misconduct hearing, chair of the bench Catherine Elliott, said that doing nothing might have been negligent and that PC Sutton was being conscientious when he decided to intervene. She said most of what happened on the A406 was 'not disputed' and that the moped riders were driving dangerously. She said: 'The moped riders were described as driving quite slowly, swerving through traffic, wheelie-ing in and out of traffic, driving dangerously and driving stupidly. 'It is also accepted that he spotted the blue bag on the handlebars and that he formed the not unreasonable decision that it may have been part of a crime. 'In fact to do nothing on that decision may have been negligent itself. What is police guidance on 'tactical contact'? Police said guidance on the use of vehicles in stopping mopeds is similar to that surrounding the use of force by officers on foot. Officers are told they can only use force when it is 'absolutely necessary, reasonable and proportionate'. Police car drivers have to keep this in mind when deciding whether to crash into a fleeing moped mugger. Whereas police may have been more reluctant to chase robbers without helmets in previous years, a spike in moped crime concentrated the minds of Scotland Yard chiefs. More training for 'scorpion' drivers and the increasingly dangerous tactics used by muggers has led to the method being more widely used. Advertisement 'PC Sutton was being conscientious and taking his duties seriously when he decided to take some action.' She added that the manoeuvre PC Sutton did was 'recognised' but 'normally undertaken by two or more vehicles'. She continued: 'We found PC Sutton to be a good and credible witness - he gave an honest and assured account of what happened. 'What is in dispute is whether the manoeuvre PC Sutton did to block or restrict Mr G conformed with standard operating procedure. 'The panel has accepted that PC Sutton is credible and therefore accept that he saw the four moped riders in the lane and that they split up into two groups. 'The other drivers had all spotted the police car and Mr G himself in his statement said that the police car was in front of him to his left - that he saw the police man look at him.' The hearing heard that PC Sutton was trained in tactical pursuit and containment and therefore they did not feel it necessary that he ring the control panel to ask for guidance. She added: 'In a fast moving situation he had few if any practicable options. 'In the circumstances... PC Sutton did what was necessary in the apprehension of a suspected criminal. 'His decision to block that particular rider was a reasonable one.' The misconduct hearing was told that PC Sutton, who has taken part in several specialist police driving courses and was aware of guidance for stopping mopeds, did not realise how fast he was going and it took 1.6 seconds for the patrol car's acceleration to impact. Pictured: A moped mugging gang in the capital, where the police advocated crashing into people to knock thieves off their vehicles Despite the force hailing the tactic for reducing moped-enabled crime last year PC Sutton was accused of using an 'unauthorised and/or dangerous method' of stopping the moped. Since the incident, as part of a crackdown on soaring moped-enabled crime, 'tactical contact' - or 'hard stops' - allow officers to ram into criminals on mopeds to stop them. Previously officers feared being jailed or sacked if moped riders were injured during high-speed chases and to make matters worse the suspects would take off their helmets to stop the pursuit. Moped-enabled crime plummeted after the tactics were introduced. Operation Venice recorded a 36 per cent drop across London in 2018 compared to the previous year. Police say from January to October in 2017 there were 19,455 moped-enabled offences across London, but from January to October last year that number plummeted to 12,419 offences. The stops are carried out by uniformed 'Scorpion' officers - the highly trained drivers are allowed to physically hit a rider on a moped to knock him from the vehicle during a pursuit. The panel found that none of the allegations were proven. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that pressure he put on General Motors has resulted in an about-face on the closure of a manufacturing plant in Lordstown, Ohio. The United Autoworkers quickly said it won't get behind the deal to sell the factory to Workhorse Group, which has a non-unionized labor force and warned investors in a December statement to the SEC that 'the unionization of our labor force could negatively impact our companys health.' GM's decision in November to shutter the factory and four others assembly plants, drew outrage from the United Autoworkers union and scores of news stories about a projection of 15,000 lost jobs including 1,700 in Lordstown. It also threatened to become a black eye for the Trump administration in a key 2020 swing state, at a time when he is boasting about near-record low unemployment rates. 'GREAT NEWS FOR OHIO! Just spoke to Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors, who informed me that, subject to a UAW agreement etc., GM will be selling their beautiful Lordstown Plant to Workhorse, where they plan to build Electric Trucks,' Trump tweeted late Wednesday morning. President Trump announced Wednesday on Twitter that the storied Lordstown, Ohio General Motors auto plant will reopen as a factory making electric pickup trucks The move put him on the same page as GM's CEO Mary Barra, whom he had badgered to close an overseas plant instead of the Onio facility; they're pictured at the White House a few days after his 2017 inauguration The Lordstown factory's closure put an end to 1,700 jobs in a swing state that the president needs to win in 2020 if he is to have a second term Workhorse Group, a Cincinnati-based company that makes eletric delivery vehicles, plans to take over the Lordstown plant and turn out electric pickup trucks like this one He also wrote that GM has agreed to hire 450 new employees in Ohio, investing $700 million 'in 3 separate locations.' Barra said in a statement that '[w]e remain committed to growing manufacturing jobs in the U.S., including in Ohio, and we see this development as a potential win-win for everyone,' WHAT WORKHORSE GROUP TOLD THE SEC IN DECEMBER ABOUT UNIONS 'Our business may be adversely affected by union activities.' 'Although none of our employees are currently represented by a labor union, it is common throughout the automotive industry for many employees at automotive companies to belong to a union, which can result in higher employee costs and increased risk of work stoppages. Our employees may join or seek recognition to form a labor union, or we may be required to become a union signatory. 'Our production facility in Union City, Indiana was purchased from Navistar. Prior employees of Navistar were union members and our future work force at this facility may be inclined to vote in favor of forming a labor union. Furthermore, we are directly or indirectly dependent upon companies with unionized work forces, such as parts suppliers and trucking and freight companies, and work stoppages or strikes organized by such unions could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or operating results. 'If a work stoppage occurs, it could delay the manufacture and sale of our trucks and have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, operating results or financial condition. The mere fact that our labor force could be unionized may harm our reputation in the eyes of some investors and thereby negatively affect our stock price. 'Consequently, the unionization of our labor force could negatively impact our companys health.' Advertisement 'Workhorse has innovative technologies that could help preserve Lordstowns more than 50-year tradition of vehicle assembly work,' she said. But UAW Vice President Terry Dittes insisted in a statement that instead of selling, 'General Motors should assign a product to the Lordstown facility and continue operating it.' A federal lawsuit filed by the UAW over the closing of the Lordstown, Baltimore and Warren facilities is still pending, and the UAW will continue its effort to protect the contractual rights of its members at these locations,' the union boss said. 'The parties regularly discuss product placement issues during National Negotiations which will begin in July of this year. We will monitor this situation as it develops to determine what course of action will most benefit UAW-represented workers at General Motors.' Trump stepped up pressure on Barra in March with three days of digital arm-twisting complaining that GM and the union were dragging their feet and leaving laid-off workers in the lurch. 'General Motors and the UAW are going to start "talks" in September/October. Why wait, start them now!' he tweeted at the time. 'Get that big, beautiful plant in Ohio open now. Close a plant in China or Mexico, where you invested so heavily pre-Trump, but not in the U.S.A. Bring jobs home!' he wrote. Workhorse said in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing in December that a unionized workforce was a serious threat to its viability. In a section headed 'Our business may be adversely affected by union activities,' the company cautioned that unionizing 'can result in higher employee costs and increased risk of work stoppages.' 'The mere fact that our labor force could be unionized may harm our reputation in the eyes of some investors and thereby negatively affect our stock price,' the company added. 'Consequently, the unionization of our labor force could negatively impact our companys health.' Trump capped that March weekend of ranting with a tweet disclosing that he had vented his frustrations during a conversation with Barra. Trump tweeted a digital fist-pump on Wednesday, praising Barra, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Sen. Rob Portman 'I am not happy that it is closed when everything else in our Country is BOOMING,' he wrote. 'I asked her to sell it or do something quickly. She blamed the UAW Union I don't care, I just want it open!' Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders took his preisdential campaign tour to Lordstown in April, directly challenging 'tough guy' Trump to offer more than talk. 'You're really tough on them,' he said sarcastically of Trump's attitude toward corporate America. 'Well let's see how tough you are. Tell General Motors today, no more federal contracts.' 'Mr. President, I know how tough you are, snatching babies from the hands of their mothers,' he said, referring to the administration's policy of separating illegal immigrant families at the U.S.-mexico border. 'Well let's see how tough you are taking on corporate America.' Why it matters: GM is a major employer across a swathe of three states won by Trump, two of which had been seen as part of Hillary Clinton's 'blue wall' The presidnt blasted GM and the UAW in March for dragging their feet instead of trying to save the Lordstown jobs with some urgency Trump had previously told a UAW leader, David Green, to 'get his act together and produce' for the Lordstown workers. Green didn't respond to a request for comment. In a Fox News Channel interview at the time, White House counselor Kellyanne Conway siad Trump is frustrated with the negotiation timetable that's unfolding in slow motion as Ohioans lose their jobs. 'In the president's mind, it's March. You're scheduling a meeting for October. And in the meantime jobs are going to keep seeping out of the country like they did in past administrations,' she said. 'He wants them to come to the table before that. ... When you tell a businessman, a non-politician, "We're going to meet seven months from now," he's just saying, "Can we accelerate and have the meeting sometime faster?"' GM Lordstown workers rallied outside the plant on March 6 as they prepared to stand down after the plant produced cars and other vehicles for 50 years Tattoo artist Nicholas Brent Gibson, 32, has admitted to a string of murders across the United States since 1999 when he was 12 A 32-year-old convicted sex offender suspected of hacking to death an elderly housemate with a samurai sword is being investigated as a potential serial killer after he confessed to several other murders across the country beginning in 1999 when he was just 12, police sources told DailyMail.com. Nicholas Brent Gibson, who goes by the online identity 'Brent Savage' and sports the name 'Savage Angel' tattooed across his chest, was arrested in New York City on Sunday May 5, on suspicion of murdering 77-year-old Erik Stocker in Miami Beach, Florida. Now it can be revealed Gibson has told cops he killed six other people in Florida, California and Georgia in a string of murders going back to 1999 when he was a 12-year-old. Miami Beach Police Department spokesman Ernesto Rodriguez said Gibson has admitted to Stocker's murder as well as six others. He said: 'Mr. Gibson was interviewed by Miami Beach detectives after his arrest on Sunday [May 5]. In that interview, he admitted to his involvement in the murder of Mr. Stocker. 'We also recovered physical evidence to support the murder charges that will be filed against him once he is returned to Miami. The one-bedroom home (ringed) of Erik Stocker in the Miami Beach, Florida complex where his body was found on April 30 Mr. Gibson also made additional statements about his involvement in six other murders during earlier times in his life. 'He said these occurred in Florida, Georgia and California. We are evaluating the information he has provided. 'We will be working with law enforcement in these locations in an attempt to determine the credibility of his statements. 'This will be a lengthy process. At this time we cannot corroborate what Mr. Gibson has told us about his involvement in any of the other murders.' Gibson, who has tattoos around his right eye and neck, was arrested May 5 by New York transit cops for the gruesome killing of Stocker. Stocker's decomposing body was found on April 30. Savage Angel: Nicholas Brent Gibson has been in prison for over 16 years. He served seven years for rape in 2000, four-and-half years for rape in 2008, nine months for failing to register as a sexual predator in 2013, two years for again failing to register in 2014 and 30 months for failing to register in 2017 Tattoo artist Gibson, who sources said was living with Stocker and possibly serving as a health aide, allegedly killed and mutilated him, then stole his wallet and credit cards. CRIMINAL PAST June 20, 2000 Nicholas Brent Gibson, then only 13, was convicted of rape in Illinois. He served his seven year sentence at the Illinois Youth Center in Harrisburg. August 31, 2007 He was released from prison. December 26, 2007 He was arrested for raping and indecently assaulting a person under 16 in Tyrone, Pennsylvania. May 29, 2008 He pled guilty to rape and failing to register as a sex offender. He was given a four-and-a-half year prison sentence. June 21, 2012 - He was released from prison. August 17, 2012 - He was arrested in Cobb County, Georgia for failing to register as a sex offender. He then absconded. February 19, 2013 - He was arrested by the Miami Beach Police Department for failing to register as a sexual predator and sentenced to 90 days in custody. May 10, 2013 - He was extradited to Cobb County, Georgia and jailed for six months for failing to register as a sex offender October 24, 2013 - He was released from Autry State Prison, Pelham, Georgia. November 11, 2013 - He was arrested by Cobb County Sheriff's Office, Georgia for failing to register as a sex offender. February 6, 2014 - He was sentenced to 2 years in prison. November 10, 2015 - He was released from Dooly State Prison in Unadilla, Georgia June 11, 2016 - He was arrested while working at Dunkin Donuts, Florida and charged with failing to register as a sex offender. He was put in custody pending trial March 30, 2017 - He was sentenced for 30 months November, 23, 2018 - He was released from prison Advertisement Gibson, who also worked at a Dunkin' Donuts in Jupiter, Florida, used one of the cards to buy a bus ticket to New York City, sources said. Miami Beach police reportedly found 'an unusually gory scene' when they discovered Stocker's corpse on April 30 after neighbors in his apartment block complained of a bad smell coming from his one-bed second floor home. Stocker had been hacked to death with a samurai sword. Police think the murder took place on April 17. Neighbors told DailyMail.com they believe Gibson had been living with Stocker in the gated 1940s apartment complex close to tourist hotspot Lincoln Road in South Beach. They said the killing probably went undetected for so long because most of the dwellings are vacation homes and only a handful are currently occupied. Stocker had owned his home for 10 years. 'I saw the old man regularly but the younger guy, maybe just once or twice. You couldn't miss his tattoos,' said one neighbor. 'I think they lived together but there are so few people here that nobody really knows one another.' A maintenance worker who declined to be named added: 'He was a friendly old man, he would go for walks. His home was pretty chaotic, he might have been a bit of a hoarder 'The first they knew that anything wrong was the terrible smell. The management opened the door because they thought it was rats or something like that. 'He was dead in there, the scene was very, very bad. They said he was stabbed with a samurai sword.' On his instagram page, Gibson claimed on December 26, 2015 to have been in a relationship with an Emmy television-award winning actress. Gibson posed in front of eight Emmy awards, clutching another in his hand, and wrote: 'Yes...they are real....not mine. But I am ******* an actress....name withheld of course....lol' Nicholas Brent Gibson worked at Dunkin' Donuts in Jupiter, Florida after being a tattoo artist and bartender. He was arrested at the store for failing to register as a sex offender Nicholas Brent Gibson, posing in front of eight Emmy Awards and holding another, told his followers on instagram in 2015 he was in a relationship with an actress Miami police announced Gibson was a person of interest in the murder of Stocker and alerted NYPD to be on the lookout for him. Police were able to track him down after he used Stocker's credit cards at several places in Manhattan, authorities said. Officers found video of Gibson at Pronto Pizza, close to Rockefeller Center, where he used the card on May 3. On May 4, Gibson used one of the stolen cards to buy a subway Metro Card in lower Manhattan. On May 5, transit cops saw him get off the subway at the First Avenue 'L'-line station in the East Village and arrested him - only after he put up a brief fight. He was charged with resisting arrest and being a fugitive from another state. Gibson was also wanted for violating probation after reportedly failing to register as a sex offender. Gibson served seven years for rape in Illinois from 2000 to 2007 and was then sentenced for four-and-half years for rape in 2008 in Pennsylvania. Police believe Nicholas Brent Gibson (above) used a sword to dismember Stocker, who he was working as a health aide for, and then went on the run with his credit cards On his resume posted online, Gibson claimed to have a BA degree in Fine Arts from Northern Illinois University in Harrisburg in 2009. He described working as a tattooist in Miami Beach between February 2014 and October 2015. Gibson wrote: 'I worked in this shop and loved it. Mainly on commission .just wasn't paying enough even with my other part time gig. 'I would like to get back in a shop or related field. Experienced artist, gifted with versatile abilities,free hand and good in pretty much all ranges of art. Specialty is new school and photo realism ...have portfolio on request.' He then worked as a bartender and server at a restaurant in South Beach, Miami between October 2015 and February 2016. He posted: 'I worked as a house man for about a week. Then moving up I became a server and in a month I moved to bar back and started tending domestics and house drafts. I loved my job and employers. My coworkers were the best and unfortunately I had to relocate and now seek further employment in that field.' The number of crimes reported to police by MPs receiving threats and abuse has nearly doubled in the first part of this year, police have said. Head of UK counter-terrorism policing Neil Basu told the UK Parliament Human Rights Committee that 152 crimes were reported by MPs between January and April this year. This was a rise of 90% compared to the same months last year. In the whole of 2018, there were 342 offences reported to police in England and Wales by MPs, and the previous year 151. MP Anna Soubry is abused outside Parliament. MPs spoke about the incident today as it emerged the number of threats and other crimes reported by politicians has doubled Mr Basu told the committee that MPs had been asked to report all incidents of abuse and threats so that police can map hotspots, with more than 600 logged so far this year. Currently the most occur in London and the south east, as well as the north west. There is an even split between pro-Brexit and pro-Remain MPs who receive abuse, although women and those from ethnic minorities are disproportionately targeted. MPs said the trend was all the more worrying in the wake of the murder of Jo Cox It comes after it emerged that a UKIP candidate in the European elections is under police investigation after posting a video suggesting he 'might' rape Labour MP Jess Phillips. Carl Benjamin had previously triggered fury for a social media message in which he said he 'wouldn't even rape' her. Earlier, Director of Public Prosecutions Max Hill QC told the committee that security costs for MPs had rocketed since 2010/11. That year the bill for security assistance was 37,000, but spending rose dramatically to 4.2 million in 2017/18. The sum spent began to rise steeply in the wake of the murder of Batley and Spen MP Jo Cox, who was killed by a right-wing extremist in June 2016. Metropolitan Police commissioner Cressida Dick said the level of threats and abuse against MPs were 'unprecedented' in her time in policing. She admitted that officers were 'too passive' when dealing with protesters who barracked MP Anna Soubry as she tried to get into the Houses of Parliament. Cressida Dick said the level of abuse directed at MPs is at 'unprecedented' levels Ms Dick said that MPs should be able to go about their business and that the rights of protesters are not 'unfettered'. She said: 'We do believe that our posture generally at the time that you are talking about, just before Christmas and just after, was overall too passive. 'Since then you will have seen a very big step up in the resourcing of the policing of the protests around Parliament.' On an average day there are now around 60 officers dedicated to policing protests around the Houses of Parliament, and they are 'more interventionist', she said. Lee Hickling, 44, said Nicky Morgan 'needs a good kicking' Tory MP Nicky Morgan was threatened by a pro-Brexit troll who said he would send her 'to the burns unit' and leave her 'scarred for life' if she knocked on his door. Lee Hickling, 44, using the alias Ray Brendon Smith, said that the Remain-backing Loughborough MP had done nothing for the town and 'needs a good kicking' in a series of threatening Facebook posts. One of Mrs Morgan's constituents saw the remarks and alerted her to them. She then reported them to the police. Unemployed Hickling, who lives with his parents, admitted sending a threatening electronic message to Mrs Morgan when he appeared at Leicester Magistrates Court on Tuesday. Sally Bedford, prosecuting, told magistrates Mrs Morgan found the posts grossly offensive and that some of them had referred to using violence, LeicesterLive reported. Ms Bedford said Mrs Morgan, who has represented Loughborough since 2010, had found the hostility of the remarks distressing. The prosecutor said: '[The posts] are difficult to read as there is no punctuation.' Hickling also said he would be protesting outside Mrs Morgan's office on May 2, using derogatory words to refer to her. A further post said: 'If she knocks on my door she will have to go to the burns unit. Hickling appeared in court with bandages around his his wrist. His lawyer said he had harmed himself with a key before arriving for the case 'She will be scarred for life. You have been warned.' He also made comments about refugees being prioritised for council housing. Police traced Hickling to his home in Loughborough where he was arrested and admitted responsibility for the posts, expressing frustration to the police about the political situation. He said he had been encouraged to make the remarks by others but would not name them. Nicky Morgan had CCTV and panic alarms installed In a statement to the court, Mrs Morgan said threats like Hickling's had meant she had to increase security for her and her staff installing CCTV and panic alarms as well as having to arrange not to appear in public on her own. Mellku Diez, defending, said his client had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. He said: 'He did explain to the police his political frustration with Brexit and how it had been handled. 'He knows he has gone too far. 'He does acknowledge Mrs Morgan would be alarmed and distressed. 'He tells me it is nothing personal to Nicky Morgan herself but it was more a reflection of his frustration. 'He said he had met her once and she was quite a nice lady.' Hickling appeared in court with bandages around his his wrist. Mr Diez said he had harmed himself with a key before arriving for the case. Court staff bandaged him up and urged him to go to hospital but Mr Diez said his client 'is a man who wants to face the music' and would seek treatment only after the case concluded. Chairman of the bench Paul Forrester-Brown imposed a restraining order preventing Hickling from contacting Mrs Morgan in any way or going to her constituency office in Loughborough. He said: 'You have previous similar offences while on a community order and the victim is in public office. 'There has been national concern about high-profile people having threats made against them. 'The comments you made on social media are not acceptable.' Hickling, who apologised to the court, was made subject to a six month community order which includes a 7pm to 7am curfew. Three lions rescued from 'Europe's worst zoo' are set to wake up in a new home - having been sedated and transported to a big cat centre in Holland. The animals were seized from a private animal park in southern Albania where they were malnourished and kept in shocking conditions. They were then housed temporarily at Tirana Zoo amid a bureaucratic wrangle over their future. But charity workers have finally been able to transport them to their new home at Felida Big Cat Centre in the Netherlands where staff say 'they know a better future awaits them'. Three lions rescued from 'Europe's worst zoo' are set to wake up in a new home - having been sedated and transported to a big cat centre in Holland. One of the lions is pictured being sedated by experts The lions are on a long journey from Albania to Holland having been rescued from a private zoo Staff at the lions' new home in the Netherlands say 'they know a better future awaits them' A team from the international animal welfare group Four Paws, stands above Lenci, a sedated lion, at Tirana Zoo, Albania yesterday The animals were seized from a private animal park in southern Albania where they were malnourished and kept in shocking conditions. They were then housed temporarily at Tirana Zoo (pictured) in Albania while amid a bureaucratic wrangle over their future Ioana Dungler, the project leader from Four Paws, an international animal welfare group, said experts put the lions in specially equipped vehicles Tuesday and were driving the animals - named Lenci, Bobby and Zhaku - to the Netherlands. 'They are safe to travel,' said veterinarian Marc Goelkel. The lions and eight other animals were removed from a private zoo in western Albania last October due to fears they were malnourished. One vet described the small, filthy cages at the park in Fier, sixty miles from the capital, as the worst he had ever seen in Europe. They had remained in cages at the public Tirana Zoo, which Four Paws also considers unfit, while authorities were in a legal dispute with their former owners. A Four Paws team has taken care of them during this time. Veterinarian Marc Goelkel of the international animal welfare group Four Paws inspects Bobby, a sedated lion, at Tirana Zoo, Albania The team from International animal welfare group Four Paws carry Bobby, a sedated lion at Tirana Zoo, Albania The lions and eight other animals were removed from a private zoo in western Albania last October due to fears they were malnourished Dungler said the lions were allowed to leave after other nations and animal groups put pressure on Albanian authorities. She also thanked Tirana Zoo for offering a 'temporary solution. Otherwise, the whole rescue operation would not be possible' but said they could not stay there permanently. 'If you see the conditions here, I don't think you need to be an expert to understand that this is not the way to keep wild animals,' said Dungler, noting that Tirana Zoo has small, cement-floor cages. 'The sun, the good care of Felida and the grass will make a difference for them.' The lions had remained in cages at the public Tirana Zoo, which Four Paws also considers unfit, while authorities were in a legal dispute with their former owners International animal welfare group Four Paws place Bobby, a sedated lion at Tirana Zoo, Albania, into a transfer cage Albania's Environment Ministry, which has been overseeing the matter, said they had no comment on the transfer. Albania has other wild animals that are being kept privately in unfit places and need 'a completely different zoo profile' to live in, Dungler said, urging Albanian authorities to cooperate on future animal transfers. 'We just need their commitment and the proper legislation,' said Dungler. Four Paws also is assisting Albanian authorities in a feasibility study for an animal sanctuary at Dajti Mountain near Tirana, the capital. A judge in San Francisco on Tuesday declared a mistrial against a high-profile skateboarder charged with attacking a security guard and smashing in his skull last year. A jury of nine men and three women deadlocked during deliberations on whether to find 24-year-old Jesse Vieira guilty of assault with a deadly weapon, assault with force likely to commit great bodily injury and battery with serious bodily injury. Vieira, a well-known skateboarder from the Bay Area, was caught on video on November 25, 2018, hitting Dan Jansen, 57, in the head with a skateboard after the guard tried to stop him and his friends from skating in the plaza at 555 California Street in the financial district. Scott free: Bay Area skateboarding star Jesse Vieira, 24 (left), walked out of a courtroom Tuesday a free man after a jury deadlocked on assault charges in last year's attack on security guard Dan Jansen, 57 (right), who suffered permanent brain damage Following a two-week trial, the jury was unable to decide whether or no to convict Vieira (pictured in orange left) Jansen, a US Army veteran, suffered a skull fracture and was left with a severe injury to his brain. Vieiras lawyer had argued during his two-week trial that his client was acting in self-defense because the victim charged at him during the altercation involving a group of skateboarders. It is now up to the district attorneys office to decide whether or not to refile charges against Vieira, reported San Francisco Chronicle. Much of the incident was captured on surveillance video, which showed Vieira striking Jansen in the head after a dispute over the placement of metal barricades at the plaza. The altercation between Jansen and a group of skateboarders on November 25 was captured on surveillance video Vieira and his friends were trying to move metal barricades so that could skate at this plaza, but Jansen was not letting them do that Prosecutors said Vieira struck Jansen with his skateboard in the head, causing the man to collapse unconscious Jansen is a US Army veteran (left) who was an avid fishing enthusiast (right) He was left with permanent brain damage after suffering a skull fracture and bleeding The security guard collapsed to the granite floor, suffering bleeding in the brain. Vieira and his companions fled the scene, leaving Jansen lying unconscious in a pool of his own urine. Doctors were later forced to remove a portion of Jansens skull to relieve the swelling on his brain from the blow. More than five months later, Jansen still cannot walk but has begun to recognize some family members. The 57-year-old man now resides in an assisted living facility, reported ABC 7 News. Vieira is a sponsored skateboarder and has been featured in Thrasher Magazine, which is a publication dedicated to the sport. At the general audience, Francis retraces the stages of the visit to Bulgaria and Northern Macedonia. The "tenderness" of the sisters of Mother Teresa in Skopje, the "step forward" with the Orthodox in the meeting with the Patriarch Neofit and the interreligious meeting for peace. "Even today there is a need for passionate and creative evangelizers, so that the Gospel may reach those who do not yet know it and can irrigate the lands where the ancient Christian roots have dried up". Vatican City (AsiaNews) - The "tenderness" of the sisters of Mother Teresa in Skopje, the "step forward" with the Orthodox in the meeting with the Patriarch Neofit and the interreligious meeting for peace: these are the moments of the journey to Bulgaria and Northern Macedonia particularly underlined by Pope Francis in today's general audience, one day after returning to Rome. In fact, Francis spoke of the "three-day apostolic journey that took me to Bulgaria and Northern Macedonia" to the 20,000 people present in St Peter's Square. "In Bulgaria I was guided by the living memory of St. John XXIII, who was sent there in 1925 as a Visitor and then an Apostolic Delegate. Animated by his example of benevolence and pastoral charity, I met that people, called to act as a bridge between Central, Eastern and Southern Europe; with the motto "Pacem in terris" I invited everyone to walk on the path of fraternity; and in this way, in particular, I had the joy of taking a step forward in the meeting with the patriarch of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church Neofit and the members of the Holy Synod. In fact, as Christians, our vocation and mission is to be a sign and instrument of unity, and we can be, with the help of the Holy Spirit, by placing what unites us before what has divided us or still divides us . "Todays Bulgaria is one of the lands evangelized by Saints Cyril and Methodius, which Saint John Paul II has flanked with Saint Benedict as patrons of Europe." "Even today there is a need for passionate and creative evangelizers, so that the Gospel may reach those who do not yet know it and can irrigate the lands where the ancient Christian roots have dried up". "The last act of the trip to Bulgaria was accomplished together with the representatives of the different religions: we invoked the gift of peace from God, while a group of children carried lit candles, a symbol of faith and hope". "In Northern Macedonia I was accompanied by the strong spiritual presence of Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who was born in Skopje in 1910 and there, in her parish, where she received the sacraments of Christian initiation and learned to love Jesus. In this woman, minute but full of strength thanks to the action of the Holy Spirit, in her we see the image of the Church in that country and in other peripheries of the world: a small community that, with the grace of Christ, becomes a welcoming home where many find sustenance for their life. At the Mother Teresa Memorial I prayed in the presence of other religious leaders and a large group of poor, and I blessed the first stone of a shrine dedicated to her . "Northern Macedonia has been an independent country since 1991. The Holy See has tried to support its path from the beginning. With my visit I wanted to encourage above all its traditional ability to host different ethnic and religious affiliations; as well as his commitment to welcoming and helping a large number of migrants and refugees during the critical period of 2015 and 2016. A great welcome, they have a great heart. Migrants create problems, but they welcome them. "I was struck by the evangelical tenderness of the sisters of Mother Teresa. They welcome everyone and do it with tenderness. Often we Christians lose tenderness and become acid . "They carry out acts of charity with tenderness, may God bless them". Francis had also spoken yesterday of the Sisters of Mother Teresa, meeting journalists on the return flight from Skopje. "The experience with the poor today here in Macedonia at the Mother Teresa Memorial. There were so many poor people, but to see the meekness of those sisters: they were caring for the poor without paternalism, but as children. But a meekness, the ability to caress the poor, the tenderness of these sisters. Today, we are used to insulting each other. One politician insults the other, one neighbor insults the other, even in families they insult each other. I cannot say that it is a culture of insult, but the insult is a weapon in the hand, even to speak ill of others, slander, defamation, and to see these sisters that care for every person as Jesus. It hit me, a good young man approached and the superior told me, 'this is a good boy' and caressed him and she said it with the tenderness of a mom and made me feel the Church a mother. It is one of the most beautiful things to feel the maternity of the Church. Today I felt it there. And I thank Northern Macedonia for having this treasure. " "In addition to the testimonies of the young, in Skopje I listened to those of the priests and consecrated persons. Men and women who gave their lives to Christ. For them, sooner or later, the temptation comes to say: "Lord, what is this little gift of mine in the face of the problems of the Church and the world?". So I reminded them that a bit of yeast can make all the dough grow, and a little bit of perfume, pure and concentrated, can spread a good smell throughout any environment. It is the mystery of Jesus-the Eucharist, seed of new life for all humanity. The Holy Mass celebrated in Skopje Square has renewed once again, in a periphery of today's Europe, the miracle of God who, with a few loaves and fish, broken and shared, satisfies the hunger of the multitudes. To his inexhaustible Providence we entrust the present and the future of the peoples I visited on this journey. And I invite you all to pray to Our Lady to bless these two countries". A police bodycam shows the terrifying moment a man was fatally shot by a cop during an October 2018 foot pursuit in New Mexico. The footage, which was acquired this week by the Eastern New Mexico News following a petition with New Mexicos Inspection of Public Records Act, showed Clovis police officer Brent Aguilar shouting at Aaron Chavez to 'get on the f****** ground'. Within seconds, Aguilar fired off four shots that killed the 22-year-old Chavez. WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT Clovis, New Mexico, police officer Brent Aguilar was cleared in the October 2018 deadly shooting of 22-year-old Aaron Chavez. A video released this week showed the moment Aguilar opened fired and shot the car-thief suspect four times Police camera footage from October 8, 2018, recorded a police officer in New Mexico firing four shots at a man during a foot pursuit. The suspect was declared dead at the scene Sergeant Dagoberto Rodriguez (right center) points his weapon at Aaron Chavez (lower left center) while officer Brent Aguilar aims his gun after firing four shots that left Chavez dead Aguilar told investigators he feared for his life as well as that of his fellow officer, Sergeant Dagoberto Rodriguez, as he pursued the suspected car-thief. According to an investigation report on the shooting that was also obtained by the newspaper, Aguilar 'began to shed tears and indicated if he had gotten hurt or worse from the suspect stabbing him, who was going to watch over Sergeant (Dagoberto) Rodriguez if Sergeant Rodriguez was hurt and if the suspect would have turned on him.' Documents show that Rodriguez was responding to a shooting call on the 1400 block of South Oak Street when he encountered the blue Mitsubishi reported stolen the previous day. Officer Brent Aguilar told investigators he feared for his life and the well-being of another cop when they were chasing a car-thief suspect on October 8, 2018 A police camera shows officer Brent Aguilar behind the wheel of his squad car while he was chasing the suspect When Rodriguez approached the vehicle, Chavez ran off leading the cop on a foot race. Rodriguez radioed in for backup and Aguilar, who was also responding to the same call of a suspected shooter, joined in the pursuit, Aguilar made a U-turn and and ran after the suspect too. During the chase, Rodriguez warned Aguilar that Chavez was reaching for an object in his pocket, according to the report. A police department lapel video camera attached to Aguilar showed the moment he ordered Chavez to get on the floor before he ran at him and fired his weapon. The police camera does not show if Chavez ever went to his pocket. Chavez was shot on right side of the head, the left elbow, the left side of the lower chest and left cheek. The latter bullet exited his left-side lower jaw and entered his left collar bone. He was declared dead at the scene. Aguilar, who has been on the police force for more than a decade and whose named appears in three pending lawsuits, was back on duty a week after the shooting. In years prior, Aguilar appeared on two separate police videos slamming an epileptic woman to the ground and forcefully shoving a male suspect to he road during a traffic stop, In April, prosecutors ruled that his actions were justified in the deadly shooting. Criminal charges were not pursued. North Korea has insisted a missile strike launched into the sea was just a defensive manoeuvre. Satellite images showed the smoke trail of a short-range ballistic missile launched into the sea by North Korea on Saturday. But the 'strike drill' which North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw was 'regular and self-defensive'. North's foreign ministry said, via the state-run KCNA news agency on Wednesday: 'The recent drill conducted by our army is nothing more than part of the regular military training, and it has neither targeted anyone nor led to an aggravation of the situation in the region.' Saturday's drill was the first test of a ballistic missile by North Korea since it launched a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2017. It came in the wake of stalling talks between the hermit kingdom, the United States and South Korea in February, and raised alarms in both countries, which have been seeking to entice the North into abandoning its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. Satellite images shows the smoke trail, (pictured), of a short-range ballistic missile Sea launched into the sea by North Korea on Saturday North Korea's state media said that leader Kim Jong-un had overseen a rocket and tactical guided weapons test. Pictured is a satellite image taken just after the missile was launched The test came just hours after US President Donald Trump, (left), said he still has faith in de-nuclearisation negotiations with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, (right) Seoul responded on Saturday by calling on its northern neighbour to 'stop acts that escalate military tension on the Korean Peninsula'. The test came just hours after President Donald Trump said he still has faith in de-nuclearisation negotiations with Kim, even after the country fired a barrage of projectiles into the sea - and said he 'won't break his promises'. It was also a day after South Korea expressed concern that such launches were a violation of an inter-Korean agreement to cease all hostile acts. Trump, who has met with Kim twice, said he was still confident he could have a deal with Kim, and South Korean officials have also played down the test. North Korea hit back at 'spiteful remarks' about the tests from unnamed critics, warning that 'baseless allegations' might 'produce a result of driving us to the direction which neither we nor they want to see at all'. The spokesman said there was a double standard, with South Korea and the United States carrying out military drills with little criticism. A US official told CNN that an early analysis says the launches appear to have been both MLRS (multiple launch rocket systems) and a possible short range ballistic missile A photo provided on Sunday by the North Korean government shows a test of weapon systems. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event He said: 'Only our regular and self-defensive military drill is branded as provocative, and this is an undisguised manifestation of the attempt to press the gradual disarmament of our state and finally invade us. 'We think this is very much unpleasant and regrettable, and we sound a note of warning.' After meeting with Kim for the first time in June last year, Trump abruptly announced he was cancelling all large-scale military exercises with South Korea. Smaller exercises have continued, however, drawing regular criticism from Pyongyang. Ballistic missile expert Jeffrey Lewis told CNN the satellite images a 'one-in-a-million shot'. North Korea's state media said that leader Kim Jong Un had overseen a rocket and tactical guided weapons test, after the drill raised concerns Pyongyang was escalating provocations with US nuclear negotiations deadlocked. The tests have been seen as a sign of Pyongyang's frustration over the stalled talks, aimed at providing the North with desperately needed sanctions relief in exchange for its nuclear disarmament. DonaldTrump had seemed to shrug off the importance of the tests, tweeting that Kim 'knows that I am with him & does not want to break his promise to me. Deal will happen' The launch follows a warm meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin, (right), less than two weeks ago and likely signals more tests to come The launch follows a warm meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin less than two weeks ago and likely signals more tests to come, according to Jeffrey Lewis, director of the East Asia Nonproliferation Program at the Middlebury Institute. Lewis said the North Koreans began firing a barrage of short-range projectiles at approximately 9.06 am on Saturday. Around an hour later, Pyongyang fired another projectile. The image of that launch and the smoky plume it trailed in its wake was caught by Planet Labs, which works with the Middlebury Institute. The missile 'was fired right about this time', adding that the image would have been captured 'within a few seconds, maybe a few minutes.' Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that the US still sees 'a path forward' in its nuclear talks with North Korea, even after Pyongyang's latest round of test launches. The Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey provided CNN with two images of the smoke trail 'It's a serious situation for sure and we've known that the path to fully verified denuclearisation would be a bumpy and long one,' he said on ABC's This Week. But, he added: 'We still believe there's a path forward.' Pompeo told This Week that the rockets fired Saturday were relatively short range, had crossed no international boundary, had landed in waters east of North Korea 'and didn't present a threat to the United States or to South Korea or Japan.' He said US military experts were continuing to study the tests, but he was careful not to say whether it might violate agreements reached since US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met in Singapore in 2018. On Saturday, Trump had seemed to shrug off the importance of the tests, tweeting that Kim 'knows that I am with him & does not want to break his promise to me. Deal will happen.' The two sides have generally been at loggerheads since the collapse in February of a follow-up summit between Trump and Kim in Hanoi. But Pompeo appeared on Sunday to strive for a conciliatory tone. 'We still believe that there's an opportunity to get a negotiated outcome where we get fully verified denuclearise,' he said. 'We want to get back to the table.' Pompeo played down the harsh language levelled at him recently by a North Korean foreign ministry official who said Pompeo had made 'reckless and dangerous' remarks. He claimed that he hoped the North hoped the US side would appoint a 'more careful and mature' negotiator. 'The president gets to choose who his negotiators are, he is leading the effort, Pompeo said with a smile. Kim was said to be deeply frustrated by the failure of the Hanoi summit. An ABC interviewer asked Pompeo about unconfirmed reports that four of the North's foreign ministry officials had subsequently been executed. Pompeo did not confirm the reports, saying however: 'It does appear the next time we have serious negotiations my counterpart will be someone else.' Advertisement Uber drivers around the world are participating in a day of strikes to protest their compensation and treatment as the company prepares an initial public stock offering at a $91billion valuation. Joined by Lyft workers, Uber drivers held a two-hour strike from 7am to 9am in New York City on Wednesday, and rolling strikes in Los Angles, San Francisco, Washington DC and London. Uber plans to raise $9billion when it goes public on the New York Stock Exchange on Friday, for a total valuation exceeding $91billion. In New York on Wednesday, a caravan of Uber drivers rolled passenger-less over the Brooklyn Bridge at dawn, bearing signs accusing the company of greed. Uber and Lyft drivers, with signs on their vehicles supporting better wages, cross the Brooklyn Bridge in a caravan of about 25 vehicles on Wednesday in New York. The protests arrive just ahead of Uber's initial public stock offering on Friday Members of the Independent Drivers Guild drive across the Brooklyn Bridge as part of a protest against Uber on Wednesday The protests in more than a dozen cities come ahead of Uber's anticipated Initial Public Offering on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) which could put the ride-hailing firm's calculation as high as $91.5 billion Uber drivers cross the Brooklyn Bridge in a caravan on Wednesday to protest their compensation Uber drivers protest next to the Charging Bull statue in New York's financial district on Wednesday Drivers take part in a protest against Uber and other app-based ride-hailing companies in New York near Wall Street From there, groups of drivers gathered outside near the Charging Bull statue near Wall Street, and held noisy protests outside of Uber's offices in Manhattan. On the West Coast, drivers called for a 24-hour strike at Los Angeles International, urging other drivers to boycott the airport from midnight to midnight and form a picket line there on Wednesday. Labor actions also took place in Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, San Diego, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Australia and Sao Paulo, Brazil. In the UK, the Independent Workers Union said some Uber drivers are observing a nine-hour boycott. The union demands, among other things, increased fares per mile and a decrease in commissions paid to Uber. It's not the first time drivers for ride-hailing apps have staged protests. Strikes were planned in several cities ahead of Lyft's IPO last month, although the disruption to riders appeared to be minimal. More cities are participating in Wednesday's protest. Uber and Lyft drivers protest during a day-long strike outside Uber's office in Saugus, Massachusetts on Wednesday The drivers in Massachusetts joined workers around the world to protest what they say is unfair compensation Striking Uber and Lyft drivers walk a picket line as they join a world wide strike of the the ride hailing companies outside Uber offices in Saugus, Massachusetts. Drivers are striking in an effort to get better wages and medical benefits Connecticut Uber and Lyft drivers hold a protest at Uber Driver Resource Center in Stamford, Connecticut as they take part in a nationwide strike to protest Uber's treatment of mobile app drivers 'I'm striking because Uber has broken their promises to drivers time and again,' said Syed Ali, an Uber driver and member of the striking New York Taxi Workers Alliance, in a statement. 'They have grown and grown and gotten richer and richer, but I haven't grown with the company. My condition as an Uber driver has gotten worse and worse,' Ali said. 'Drivers built these billion dollar companies and it is just plain wrong that so many continue to be paid poverty wages while Silicon Valley investors get rich off their labor,' said Brendan Sexton, executive director of the Independent Drivers Guild. 'All drivers deserve fair pay.' Senator Bernie Sanders, a candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, voiced his support for the striking drivers in a tweet. 'Uber is not a poor company. It paid its top five executives $143 million in compensation last year, including $45 million to its CEO. So why are Uber drivers struggling to put food on the table?' wrote Sanders. 'I stand with striking Uber and Lyft drivers today. The greed has got to end.' Private hire drivers stage a protest outside of the offices of Uber in London on Wednesday Uber drivers protest outside the Uber offices in London, England on Wednesday. The protests come ahead of Uber's anticipated Initial Public Offering on the New York Stock Exchange which could but the ride-hailing firm's valuation at $91M Drivers in London joined the worldwide day of strikes and protests on Wednesday to protest driver pay and benefits In the UK, the Independent Workers Union said some Uber drivers are observing a nine-hour boycott. The union demands, among other things, increased fares per mile and a decrease in commissions paid to Uber Uber, in a prepared statement, said it is constantly working to improve the working environment for drivers. 'Drivers are at the heart of our service - we can't succeed without them - and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road.' Lyft said its drivers' hourly earnings have increased over the last two years, that 75% of its drivers work less than 10 hours per week to supplement existing jobs and that on average the company's drivers earn over $20 an hour before subtracting expenses such as gas and vehicle maintenance. 'We know that access to flexible, extra income makes a big difference for millions of people, and we're constantly working to improve how we can best serve our driver community,' Lyft said. Uber has 3 million drivers globally, and it is not clear if the strikes would significantly slow service, although organizers have received widespread publicity. Chief Executive Officer Dara Khosrowshahi, hired to help move the company past a series of scandals and manage the IPO, has promised to treat drivers better. Uber is paying more than a million drivers about $300 million in one-time bonuses, for instance, and has changed policies such as allowing riders to tip. In Sao Paulo, Brazil, drivers of the ride share service Uber protest against the reduction of incentives of the company, the lack of security during work, and ask for an increase in the value of the service An Uber driver places adhesive tape on his car during a strike against the company in Sao Paulo, Brazil on Wednesday The words 'Uber, Global Strike' are seen on a car during a protest against the company in Sao Paulo, Brazil 'Whether it's being able to track your earnings or stronger insurance protections, we'll continue working to improve the experience for and with drivers,' the company said. Uber and Lyft have cut back on incentives and bonuses in more established markets to attract new drivers. They have also devised more complicated formulas for determining what riders pay and what drivers earn. Both companies recently slashed the per-mile rate drivers earn in Los Angeles and San Francisco, and some drivers estimated a loss of 10 percent to 20 percent in earnings. Lyft said its hourly wages have risen over the last two years and average over $20 per hour. The company and its critics are divided over how much drivers can make. Classified as independent contractors, they lack paid sick and vacation days and must pay their own expenses, such as car maintenance and gasoline. Uber noted that a recent study whose authors included current and former Uber employees showed driver gross earnings averaged $21 an hour. But a study by left-leaning Washington think tank Economic Policy Institute calculated that after costs, Uber drivers earned $9.21 an hour. The white Virginia police officer who cursed at a group of black middle school students and promised to publicly apologize has said he will no longer honor the signed agreement. The officer, whose name hasn't been released, no longer feels he can 'handle' the large setting, Richmond interim police Chief William Smith told The Richmond Times-Dispatch. A video recorded in March shows the officer telling the Albert Hill Middle School students, 'Wait until your a***s turn 18, then you're mine.' The officer apologized to the students and their guardians last week and signed an agreement to publicly apologize at a school assembly, but has now said he can't do it. Scroll down for video The white Virginia police officer (shown in his patrol car) who cursed at a group of black middle school students in March and promised to publicly apologize has said he will no longer honor the signed agreement because he no longer feels he can handle the large setting of a student assembly Chief Smith said the officer is sorry for not being able to uphold that agreement, 'but, since then, he has reconsidered that promise and no longer feels he could handle the much larger setting of a school assembly.' The chief continued: 'He wants me to pass along his sincere apology for what he said that day and add another apology for not being able to meet with the entire school. 'I believe that if there is any good that has come out of this, it is that the Richmond Police Department has developed a stronger, much more positive and hopeful ongoing relationship with Albert Hill Middle School.' In response to the canceled public apology, Richmond Public Schools manager of school climate and culture strategy Ram Bhagat said: 'We need to keep working together as a community to build trusting relationships. We left with one expectation and theres so much we gained from it. We should really focus on what we gained from it, especially for the students.' Student Cameron Hilliard who filmed the video of the March 28 incident on her cellphone said someone outside of her group yelled an obscenity directed at officers, which prompted the confrontation. Hillard said she and her classmates were on their way to an after school program at Albert Hill Middle School when the officer drove up in a patrol car. 'Somebody said a curse word to "f*** the police" - but it wasn't me or my friends,' Hillard told CBS19. The 13-year-old said the officer then put his car in reverse and asked the group who made the comment, which they all denied. The officer responded by telling the teens to 'man up' before remarking: 'Wait until your a**es turn 18, then you're mine' and driving off, according to Hilliard. The video was filmed by 13-year-old Cameron Hillard (left), whose mother Keisha Curry (right) posted it on YouTube, sparking an internal investigation by the Richmond Police Department Hilliard showed the cellphone clip to her mother, Keisha Curry, who addressed it in a video shared on YouTube. Curry said she initially brushed it off because it wasn't anything she hadn't experienced before, having grown up in Richmond. 'Being that I was brought up and raised in Hillside Court and the Highland Park area, I found that officers acted like that on a regular basis,' Curry said in the YouTube video. However, the more she thought about the incident and discussed it with her daughter, the more disturbed Curry became. 'A comment like that can really disturb a child at this age,' Curry said. Cameron added: 'It makes us think that some officers can be rude and not all officers are here to serve us.' Curry and her daughter addressed the incident in a second YouTube video, in which the mother called for the officer to be disciplined and reprimanded. Hilliard said the cop's comment 'makes us think that not all officers are here to serve us' As a result of the incident, the 15-year veteran officer was removed from paroling the Museum District neighborhood where the middle school is located and will be required to undergo 'mandatory remedial training,' in addition to facing unspecified punishment The department did not release the officer's name but confirmed that he is white. Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney also addressed the video, saying that the type of behavior exhibited by the officer will not be tolerated by the city. 'I trust that the Richmond Police Department will conduct a quick and thorough investigation and respond accordingly,' Stoney said in a statement. 'This behavior is unacceptable. It reinforces stereotypes of our communities that are hurtful and damages the relationship between our police department and the citizens they are charged to serve.' As a result of the incident, the 15-year veteran officer was removed from paroling the Museum District neighborhood where the middle school is located and will be required to undergo 'mandatory remedial training,' in addition to facing unspecified punishment, WTVR reported. The officer does not have a 'significant discipline history,' Smith said, adding that over the course of his service at different precincts throughout the city he has received only complaint and missed court only one time. 'The officer was open and honest during his interview and expressed regret for his actions,' Smith said. 'He voluntarily requested to be given the opportunity to speak to and apologize to the parents. While these facts dont minimize the incident, they do give you the totality of the person.' Smith added about the officer's reassignment, 'Unrelated to his discipline, I have moved him from this area of the city to ensure that there is no possible perception of bias or retaliation within the community.' Lyra McKee (left) and her partner Sara Canning The girlfriend of murdered journalist Lyra McKee told Theresa May she had been 'derelict in her duty to Northern Ireland' and said the New IRA are 'no better than paedophiles'. Sara Canning revealed that at Ms McKee's funeral she told the Prime Minister she had not fulfilled her duty to the region by saying abortion and gay marriage were a devolved matter, adding that the British government had to do better. Ms Canning also criticised Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley, and politicians Arlene Foster and Michelle O'Neill in an interview with Channel 4 News to be broadcast this evening. Speaking of the night Ms McKee died, she said: 'It's been almost three weeks. I've not come to terms with it. I still expect to hear from her every morning. I expect to wake up beside her, and I don't.' She added that Ms McKee had gone into 'reporter mode' and was tapping away on her phone, sending messages and calling people. Ms Canning said police had told her that it had only been eight minutes from the moment Ms McKee arrived to the moment she was hit. She said: 'Lyra was clumsy, and I thought she'd tripped over her own feet and I looked down, and I knew straight away that she hadn't tripped. Ms Canning said she had initially thought Ms McKee had tripped over her own feet on the night of the shooting 'And then I noticed that she had a head wound and I put my hand to it and I started screaming for help.' Ms Canning hit out at the New IRA, who she branded a 'scourge'. In a message to Ms McKee's killers, she said: 'It was so indiscriminate. There was no regard for human life. Why are we protecting that? And if it is your child, I would be ashamed to have a child that had done that. I'd be ashamed. 'They took away an amazing person. I've lost the person I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with. I was supposed to get engaged today in Central Park. We'd planned the rest of our lives together and in one split second some idiot with a gun took that away.' Pictured: An image released by Northern Ireland police of the suspect Ms Canning blasted the 'mealy-mouthed apologies and back-tracking', along with the 'absolutely pathetic' statements issued by the New IRA, saying they could not call it an accidental shooting. 'You fire a gun at a crowd, that's not an accidental shooting,' she said. 'You're aiming to shoot someone. I mean, it's ridiculous. They're not defending anyone. They're literally a scourge on their communities. They're a scourge. They are a scourge. 'What I would say is, and this might be heavy-handed, and people might speak out against it or whatever. But I don't really care they are grooming young men and women. 'They're no better, they speak out about paedophile gangs, but they're no better than paedophiles. 'They literally take young people who are disenfranchised at the best of times, who are living in poverty, who don't see a future for themselves in Northern Ireland because there is literally very little here for them. 'And they tell them that the way forward is a gun in their hand. The way forward is never a gun in your hand.' Ms Canning revealed that she had told Theresa May she had been 'massively derelict' in her duties to Northern Ireland. Ms Canning blasted the 'mealy-mouthed apologies and back-tracking', along with the 'absolutely pathetic' statements issued by the New IRA She continued: 'It's not just been the Tory government. To tell us that issues like gay marriage and abortion rights are a devolved matter is completely out of order. 'We're not a devolved state anymore. We're completely unsuccessful. It has been shown that we can't work together so the British government has to be our government. 'And they have to be our voice and they have to do better. So, that was basically the message that I left with the Prime Minister.' Ms Canning said Secretary of State Karen Bradley offered her condolences, and she accepted them graciously, but criticised the politician for her 'lack of knowledge around Northern Ireland'. She continued: 'As a Derry woman, I had to say to her, to offer your condolences on Lyra when you have turned around and said that soldiers who indiscriminately opened fire in the Bogside on Bloody Sunday were doing their job in a dignified manner. 'I said they are no different to the thug that opened fire in Creggan on Holy Thursday and shot Lyra.' Speaking of the day she was supposed to be engaged, Ms Canning said Ms McKee had planned an elaborate proposal at a lake house in Central Park, going into 'really minute detail' to make it the perfect moment. 'She put her heart and soul into everything for everybody,' Ms Canning said. 'She was always making sure that people were okay and wanted to make everything as perfect as she could.' White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said the U.S. is not 'looking' to go to war with Iran, after it dispatched military assets to the region. 'I certainly hope not, but the president is going to remain firm on our position and I don't think anybody is looking for any type of war with anybody,' she said. The U.S. stoked fears that it was on the war path with Tehran when it sent an aircraft carrier strike group to the region on Sunday evening. White House National Security Advisor John Bolton cited 'troubling and escalatory indications and warnings' but declined to say what those were. Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan also referred to a 'credible threat' from Iran that he didn't describe. The U.S. also put new sanctions on Iran's metal industry, targeting its iron, steel, aluminum and copper sectors, after Tehran said it would stop abiding by certain aspects of an international nuclear agreement. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said the U.S. is not 'looking' to go to war with Iran, after it dispatched military assets to the region Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan referred to a 'credible threat' from Iran that he didn't describe earlier this week as he confirmed the U.S. had deployed military assets to the region USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Strait of Gibraltar, entering the Mediterranean Sea as it continues operations in the 6th Fleet area of responsibility in this April 13, 2019 photo supplied by the U.S. Navy Iranian President Hassan Rouhani meanwhile said Iran would start keeping its enriched uranium and heavy water, in violation of the deal. If a 60-day period passes and Europe and Russia do not agree to more favorable terms to Iran, Rouhani said the nation would enrich even greater amounts of uranium. Tehran said the UK, France, Germany, China and Russia must help the nation get around sanctions the U.S. snapped back on in November for it to stay in the deal that Trump left. Russia immediately sided with Iran, warning Washington against 'ill-advised' actions the Kremlin says will be met with consequences. Britain subsequently warned of their own set of 'consequences' if Iran veers from its commitment to the rest of the global community not to increase uranium enrichment. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said Wednesday, as he met with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in London, that the allies work 'incredibly closely on Iran,' even though the U.K 'has continued to support the nuclear deal,' also known as the JCPOA. 'But today's announcement from Tehran about its commitments under the deal is an unwelcome step. I urge Iran not to take further escalatory steps and to stand by its commitments,' he said. 'Sanctions were lifted in exchange for restrictions on Iran's nuclear program. Should Iran cease to observe its nuclear commitments, there would, of course, be consequences.' Hunt promised, 'For as long as Iran keeps its commitments, then so too will the United Kingdom.' Pompeo said the U.S. was taking a wait and see approach to Rouhani's demands. 'We'll have to wait to see what Iran's actions actually are. They've made a number of statements about actions they threatened to do in order to get the world to jump. We'll see what they actually do,' he said. 'Obviously we've made a decision different than the United Kingdom has with respect to the JCPOA.' Iranian President Hassan Rouhani meanwhile said Iran would start keeping its enriched uranium and heavy water, in violation of the deal Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, said Rouhani's announcement proves that Trump was right to pull out the nuclear deal - and Europe should follow suit. 'Iran's ongoing nuclear misbehavior underscores why the United States was absolutely right to withdraw from the flawed deal, and also why the European nations and other partners must do all they can to reinforce the U.S.-led international campaign to impose maximum pressure against the regime in Tehran,' he said. Rubio added, 'The people of Iran deserve better as they continue to suffer under the Iranian regime's criminal corruption, massive economic mismanagement and systemic human rights abuses, in addition to its support for terrorists and the murderous Assad regime, ballistic missile aggression, and nuclear misbehavior.' Tension over the nuclear agreement resurfaced after the U.S. said it was sending the USS Abraham Lincoln to the Middle East. The White House seemed to be leading the charge, although officials there and at the State Department directed questions about the measures to the Defense Department. It was Bolton who announced the deployment, saying in a Sunday evening statement: 'In response to a number of troubling and escalatory indications and warnings, the United States is deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force to the U.S. Central Command region to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, left, is greeted by Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in central London on Wednesday. Hunt said the UK supports the Iran nuclear deal but not Tehran's threat to increase uranium production 'The United States is not seeking war with the Iranian regime, but we are fully prepared to respond to any attack, whether by proxy, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, or regular Iranian forces,' he concluded. Shanahan confirmed in a Monday tweet that forces had been deployed. 'Last night's announced deployment of the @CVN_72 and a @USAirForce bomber task force to the @CENTCOM area of responsibility, which I approved yesterday, represents a prudent repositioning of assets in response to indications of a credible threat by Iranian regime forces,' he tweeted. The acting defense secretary was on Capitol Hill testifying on Wednesday as Sanders spoke about the possibility of a war with Iran. He missed a Cabinet meeting at the White House, where relations with Iran were expected to come up. The White House indicated that no one from the Pentagon attended the gathering of top aides to Trump. House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, accused the Trump administration of escalating the conflict with Iran in a Tuesday evening statement. He said 'Iran's malign activities' in the region 'are dangerous' as Trump says. 'At the same time, recent statements and actions taken by the Administration have heightened my concern of a cycle of escalation with Iran one that could put us on the path to a war that would be destabilizing, costly, and contrary to our national interest,' he warned. Schiff said, 'It is precisely because of my belief that we must contain Iranian influence that we must resist any actions that undermine our efforts or weaken the support we need from our allies to confront Iran.' New York's Senate has approved legislation that would allow congressional investigators to get access to President Donald Trump's state tax returns, giving Democrats a potential end-run around the administration's refusal to disclose his federal returns. The bill that passed Wednesday would authorize state officials to release returns filed by seven different types of state and federal officeholders if requested by congressional committees. It would apply to returns filed by the U.S. president and vice president, U.S. senators, or the state's governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general or comptroller. The measure isn't scheduled for a vote yet in the state Assembly. Both the House and Assembly are led by Democrats A bill that passed the New York State Senate would allow for the state to furnish presidential tax returns when requested by congressional committees New York State Sen. Brad Hoylman, addresses members for the Senate at the state Capitol in Albany, N.Y. The Manhattan Democrat is one of the main sponsors of a bill that would allow congressional investigators to get access to President Donald Trump's state tax returns, giving Democrats a potential end-run around the administration's refusal to disclose the president's federal returns The action in albany comes amid a standoff in Congress over documents, including Trump's tax returns. He is the first presidential candidate in decades not to release them, although there is no law requiring candidates to do so. The Internal Revenue Code states that the Treasury secretary 'shall' turn over any return requested by key committee chairmen. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has refused to disclose Trump's tax returns to Congress The figures reveal that Trump (pictured here in 1989) lost $1.17billion in the span of 10 years In the span of nearly a decade, from 1985 to 1994, Donald Trump lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer, the Times report claims. He is pictured here in 1989 The president fired back Wednesday morning, saying the massive losses he showed in his tax returns were a common 'tax shelter' meant to conceal the health of his business, and 'it was sport' at the time Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has declined to disclose Trump's federal returns to the House, saying the request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose." House Ways and Means Committee chairman Richard Neal of Massachusetts had sought six years of returns, along with return information for Trump business entities. The pressure from New York comes after a New York Times report that over the span of nearly a decade Trump lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer. A collection of brief transcriptions from Trump's Internal Revenue Service tax returns, dating from 1985 to 1994, revealed that the future president lost $1.17 billion in 10 years. New York Attorney General Letitia James had sought the legal tweak. Supporters said it is necessary to ensure that state and local investigations into Trump and his associates aren't impacted if Trump uses his power to pardon. The state Assembly has not scheduled a vote on the bill. New York's senate is poised to approve a bill that would allow congressional investigators to get access to President Donald Trump's state tax returns. Uber drivers across the UK and U.S. turned off their apps and staged a strike to protest against low wages today. The demonstrations, which took place in four cities across the UK including the capital and at least 10 U.S. cities, come as the car-sharing firm prepares for a stock float set to raise 7billion. Uber is expected to be valued at up to 69billion ($90billion) after its initial public stock offering on Friday. Unions on both sides of the pond argued that it was 'plain wrong' that drivers were paid so little and denied workplace rights while investors earned millions. Uber drivers went on strike across the UK, pictured in London, and the U.S. today over low wages The demonstrations, pictured in New York, come as the car-sharing firm prepares for a stock float set to raise 7billion 'Drivers built these billion dollar companies and it is just plain wrong that so many continue to be paid poverty wages while Silicon Valley investors get rich off their labor,' said Brendan Sexton, executive director of the Independent Drivers Guild. 'All drivers deserve fair pay.' The United Private Hire Drivers Branch of the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain said the flotation is going ahead even while drivers' pay issues remain unresolved. Spokesman James Farra said: 'Uber's flotation is shaping up to be an unprecedented international orgy of greed as investors cash in on one of the most abusive business models ever to emerge from Silicon Valley. 'It is the drivers who have created this extraordinary wealth but they continue to be denied even the most basic workplace rights.' 'Drivers built these billion dollar companies and it is just plain wrong that so many continue to be paid poverty wages while Silicon Valley investors get rich off their labor,' said Brendan Sexton, executive director of the Independent Drivers Guild. Pictured: a New York rally today Protests took place in four cities across the UK and at least 10 U.S. cities, including Saugus, Massachusetts (pictured) In the UK, protests were held in London, Birmingham, Nottingham and Glasgow - alongside a nine-hour boycott of Uber's app. And in the U.S., the Guild organized a caravan of Uber drivers across the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. Some drivers went offline in the city between 7am and 9am, though it was still easy to locate a driver during rush hour near Wall Street in lower Manhattan. Drivers in Los Angeles are participating in a 24-hour strike and picket line at Los Angeles International Airport. Uber, in a prepared statement, said it is constantly working to improve the working environment for drivers. 'Drivers are at the heart of our service - we can't succeed without them - and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road.' Labor actions also took place in Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, San Diego and Stamford, Connecticut. A nine-year-old boy has been charged with open murder in the fatal shooting of his mother in their southern Michigan home, according to court documents. St. Joseph County Prosecutor John McDonough said the woman was found early Monday morning in Fawn River Township, about 160 miles (260 kilometers) west-southwest of Detroit. The woman's name is Pauline Randol according to a court document filed Tuesday and obtained by WoodTV.com. As well as the murder charge, the boy also is charged with using a firearm during the commission of a felony. Pauline Randol was allegedly shot dead with a rifle according to court document charging a nine-year-old boy with murder in the fatal shooting The child allegedly shot his mother at their home in Michigan on Monday morning WWMT-TV reports that Congress Elementary School in Sturgis contacted the mother of a girl who the juvenile had a chilling message for last year. They reportedly told her a second-grade boy was involved. Alecia Pieronski said: 'It should never have happened. The knowledge they had at the time was that he shot and killed his mother. She added the boy showed signs of trouble in February 2018 in a conversation with her eight-year-old daughter. 'He told her that he wanted to get a knife and stab her and watch her die, and watch her mother cry,' Pieronski continued. 'My want was to remove him from the school and protect the children. I do feel in my whole heart the teachers and principals did everything they could do.' The circumstances of the killing and details of why the child is considered a suspect have not been released. WWMT-TV reports that Congress Elementary School in Sturgis contacted the mother of a girl who the juvenile had a chilling message for last year As well as the murder charge, the boy also is charged with using a firearm during the commission of a felony. Randol is pictured May 2018 Sheriff Bradley Balk says the youth was undergoing a psychiatric evaluation at a state-run juvenile facility as of Tuesday. Police were carrying out forensics interviews to determine the child's state of mind. 'Maybe this a wake up call to other schools when you have that troubled child screaming for help to do something,' Pieronski added. In a Facebook post Randol cryptically spoke about a child that was 'missing skills' and said she needed 'support and understanding'. She was married to a man named Doyle Randol whom she called 'the rock of our home'. Randol wrote in 2017: 'He chose to be a father to children he didn't have to. He wanted to. I know you are our sons hero and mine too.' She was married to a man named Doyle Randol whom she called 'the rock of our home'. Randol wrote in 2017: 'He chose to be a father to children he didn't have to. He wanted to. I know you are our sons hero and mine too' The boy's sister said Randol was adopted two years ago and had a history of mental health issues. Hayley Martin told 24 Hour News 8 Wednesday. about her mother's death: 'She had told her doctor one time she was so scared she was raising the next serial killer.' But she was adamant the child was not a 'bad kid'. Harley Martin said: 'He loved his mom. I don't want people to think he did not love his mom.' Martin explained he 'just recently started snapping' and was on a new medication. In court Tuesday, he asked where his mother was and Martin said 'he doesn't know what he did'. 'He doesn't understand why he can't come home or anything,' Martin continued. 'Hes traumatized by what he saw in there. Thats all he told my dad about was seeing that. Its going to mess him up for a really long time because he does not realize what hes done.' The Associated Press left messages Wednesday seeking comment from the county prosecutor and sheriff. In a Facebook post Randol cryptically spoke about a child that was 'missing skills' and said she needed 'support and understanding' Sturgis Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Arthur Ebert said in a statement: 'Our community has experienced a tragic event. As a district it is our goal to provide support to our students, staff, and the community. 'We are limited in what we can share due to privacy laws and the sensitive nature of this tragedy. The St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department is leading the investigation regarding this event that occurred outside of school, including the release of information about the investigation.' Neighbor Christy Miller said: 'It's a sad situation.' Another neighbor said he wasn't surprised to hear the news. 'My wife and I both, when we heard that the woman was shot, we both looked at each other and said "I bet it was him",' Joseph Lancaster told FOX 17 Wednesday. 'The little boy, because I have grandkids. I have one the same age and I've got smaller ones. And he would stand in the tree line over there and point his BB gun at him and shoot at them. 'It's just crazy, scary. You know, he could have shot anybody around here.' The son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, has been given his own page on the Royal Family's website. Yet in another royal PR blunder, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were named as the newborn's parents instead of Prince Harry and Meghan. It comes days after the Sussex's new PR guru failed to inform media outlets worldwide what was going on during the most anticipated royal birth in years - as emails failed to send. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor's parents on his web page on the Royal Family's website Upon first being published, the newborn's web page read: 'He is the first child of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (pictured right today on a visit to Newborough Beach).' This was later changed to 'he is the first child of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (pictured left)' Upon first being published, the newborn's web page read: 'Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was born at 05:26 on Monday 6 May. He is the first child of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.' This was later changed to 'he is the first child of The Duke and Duchess of Sussex', but not before being picked up on social media. One twitter user wrote: 'Archie skipped ahead in the line to the throne if hes the first child of the duke and duchess of Cambridge lol (laugh out loud).' The mistake comes amid a number of mishaps from Meghan and Harry's head of communications Sara Latham - first, failing to inform the world the Duchess had gone into labour and second, almost spoiling the first shot of their newborn. As the couple's private photographer got set to capture the very first picture of the couple loving cradling their new son Archie, Ms Latham was forced to run out of the way as the new parents strolled into St George's Chapel today As the couple's private photographer got set to capture the very first picture of the couple loving cradling their new son Archie today, Ms Latham was forced to run out of the way. Sara Latham, 48, was appointed to run the Sussexes' press operation in March Ms Latham walked into the chapel ahead of the couple, but appeared not to have left enough time ahead of their arrival as the new parents strolled into St George's Chapel. And on Monday, with the eyes of the world focused on the most anticipated royal birth in years, the PR manager failed to inform media outlets worldwide what was going on - because emails failed to send. That is the excuse for Monday's bizarre miscommunications from the team run by Ms Latham, the Anglo-American former Clinton aide appointed by Harry and Meghan in March to run their media operation. But a 'profuse' apology from the Palace yesterday over emails sent at 1pm which didn't arrive until 2pm hardly explains why the world was told Meghan had gone into labour at lunchtime, when in fact she'd given birth before dawn. Prince Harry revealed shortly after 2pm that his wife had given birth to a healthy baby boy on Monday morning The delays and faults meant the ITV lunchtime bulletin missed the news, and left veteran BBC royal correspondent Nicholas Witchell mumbling into incoherence during a live two-way on Monday evening. Yesterday Kensington Palace blamed 'technical difficulties on site at Windsor' for some media outlets receiving statements on time, others late, and some not at all. But even that goes no way to explaining why, if the Duchess gave birthday in a London hospital at 5.26am, the press - who presumed her to be heavily pregnant in Frogmore Cottage - were told only that she had 'gone into labour' at lunchtime. What we now know is that Meghan was spirited away from Frogmore on Sunday night, accompanied by her husband, her mother, and her royal protection officers. The team headed to Portland Hospital in London, where Victoria Beckham gave birth and where a room in the birthing wing can cost up to 15,000. A sign was placed outside the Prince Harry pub in central Windsor with the message 'It's a boy' as the establishment also celebrated with balloons - not not until long after the birth happened The announcement was also made from Buckingham Palace in a statement which included a long list of members of the Royal Family who were 'delighted' at the news and said Meghan's mother Doria was 'overjoyed' - her father Thomas was conspicuously absent from those named A man dressed as a town crier outside Windsor Castle proclaimed news of the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's baby once the world was told At around 4pm members of staff set up an official notice on an easel at the gates of Buckingham Palace in London Less formally, the BT Tower in London broadcast a congratulatory message across the capital after the birth was announced - long after it had taken place At 5.26am, Meghan gave birth to a healthy baby boy weighing 7lbs 3oz - the Queen's eighth great-grandchild, and the seven-in-line to the throne. A Right Royal Timeline: What happened, and when we were told Sunday night: Meghan and her mother Doria are driven in secrecy to London's Portland hospital accompanied by royal protection officers Monday, 5.26am: Meghan gives birth 6.30am: Senior members of the Royal family are informed 1pm to 2pm: Palace aides try to send emails to alert the media that Meghan had 'gone into labour' - despite the fact the baby had been born six hours previously. But most outlets do not receive the emails. 1.30pm: Most of the media (and the rest of the world) still know nothing, but a spokesman for the Sussexes calls Sky News to arrange coverage of Harry's statement. 1.45pm: Sky News exclusively reports Meghan is in labour. Sky was randomly selected as the pool broadcaster and distributed the footage as soon as it went to air, but it was seven minutes before it arrived with the BBC, and too late for ITV to cover in their 1.45pm lunchtime news bulletin. 2.03pm: The Palace's email statement finally sends successfully to all outlets. 2.15pm: Harry pre-records his charmingly gleeful statement about the couple's to-die-for son. 2.37pm: The Sussexes' Instagram account posts a picture saying 'It's a Boy', and the palace issues a press release announcing the birth 2.40pm: Harry's statement is broadcast Tuesday, 12.28pm: Palace PR officials issue apology over the day's timings and announcements. But they still won't confirm where the baby was born, or explain why the world was told the Duchess was in labour when she'd already given birth. Advertisement Meanwhile, the world new nothing of this and assumed she was still in Windsor, possibly on the verge of being induced with her baby more than a week overdue. It was not until hours later, at 1pm, that the Sussexes new communications chief Sara Latham arranged for emails to be sent to news outlets. It may not be a coincidence that the Anglo-American Kensington Palace operation timed the announcement to arrive at 8am Eastern Standard Time, in the middle of the American morning news shows. But the emails didn't send. Ms Latham, 48, later explained there had been a 'colossal tech failure' which meant the email informing the press did not reach most inboxes until more than an hour after it was sent. She said: 'We sent emails which showed as sent at 1327, 1349, 1403,' according to The Telegraph. However in the meantime, Sky News (which had been picked at random to be the 'pool' broadcaster which would syndicate its footage to all networks) had received the crucial call from the Palace to set up the Prince Harry announcement. So at 1.45pm, which most outlets still in the dark, the Murdoch channel broke the news to the world that Meghan was 'in labour'. Newsrooms around the world scrambled to catch up. To make matters even more confusing, Buckingham Palace's press office was still denying the baby had been born, according to a BBC source quoted in the Sun. Less than an hour later, with journalists' and royal watchers' heads still spinning, Harry and Meghan's Instagram account posted a picture saying 'it's a boy'. Yesterday Kensington Palace apologised 'profusely' for the technical glitch on which they blamed arrival of the 1pm emails, and for the 'inconvenience it caused' But the apology leaves a number of questions unanswered. The birth was officially announced on the Instagram page of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex at 2.37pm, just a short nine hours after it happened It might be understandable that the son of Princess Diana might want to keep the world's media away from speculating about the health of his wife and son through the course of her labour. But why, if the duchess had a healthy baby at 5.26am, was the world kept completely in the dark for more than eight hours? And why was it announced first that she had gone into labour, when in fact the baby had been born? Why if Harry's announcement had been planned all along - as was later made clear - was the media not briefed in advance what it could expect, rather than a single phonecall to a single broadcaster? And why, contrary to traditional and protocol, have the Sussexes insisted on keeping secret the names of the medical team who helped with the birth and the location of the delivery - when it will be legally recorded on the birth certificate anyway? She has worked as an aide to the Obamas, the Clintons, and Tony Blair, but Sara Latham may find the questions she faces in the coming days the most challenging of her career. How Meghan and Harrys new right-hand woman has spun for Left-wing royalty: New adviser has political pedigree after working for Tony Blair, the Obamas and the Clintons by Tom Leonard in New York for The Daily Mail, March 16 2019 Public relations is not a job for the faint-hearted, but even seasoned practitioners of the spin-doctoring arts might hesitate to take on the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The royal couple are, after all, taking a step into the unknown as they and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge divide their respective households. And Harry and Meghans recent public utterances suggest they have a radically different vision of their future to the royal tradition. Those who foresaw Meghan forging a more star-studded, international and high-profile role for her and her husband than merely opening libraries and handing out bravery awards may be starting to think they are right. For the Sussexes have now recruited a high-powered and impeccably well-connected communications director who has worked not only for Bill and Hillary Clinton but also Tony Blair. Like the Duchess, Sara Latham is an American who has acquired dual US-UK citizenship. She also enjoys a reputation as a wily political operator with deep roots in the Democrat and New Labour camps. Ms Latham is an American with duel citizenship and has her roots in the Democrat party and New Labour. She has worked with Tony Blair, She was brought in to help choreograph Bill Clintons re-election campaign in 1996, helped to sneak in Barack Obamas proposed Cabinet nominations for secret interviews after his election in 2008, and helped prepare Hillary Clinton for the White House as part of what was described as her covert operations team. There may have been an added attraction for what appears to have been a selection made by the duchess, rather than Prince Harry. She hasnt hidden her loathing of Donald Trump, describing him on US TV as misogynistic and publicly supporting Mrs Clintons rival presidential campaign. Appointing a PR chief with a long-standing link to the Clintons who of course Mr Trump hates may be seen as a snub to the president. Sources say the couple met Miss Latham, 48, only this year and were immediately drawn to her firm but fair approach. It is possible they were introduced via the duchesss Hollywood friend George Clooney, whose wife Amal attended Meghans recent and lavish baby shower festivities in New York. Clooney was involved in raising funds for the Hillary campaign. A former colleague yesterday described Miss Latham as very smart and very good at dealing with difficult characters. She is, he added, very diplomatically adept and not in it for the money. It is estimated she is on a salary of 140,000 which is relatively modest for what she could be earning in the corporate sector. Miss Latham had recently rejoined the London PR firm, Freuds, as its managing partner. Ms Latham was brought in to help choreograph Bill Clintons re-election campaign in 1996, helped to sneak in Barack Obamas proposed Cabinet nominations for secret interviews after his election in 2008, and helped prepare Hillary Clinton for the White House as part of what was described as her covert operations team Reporting to the Queens press secretary Donal McCabe, Miss Latham will start her new job in the spring; the couples baby is rumoured to be expected next month. Miss Latham will no doubt be paid as much as the palace could afford but spinning for the Sussexes would be no job for an amateur. She seems to have risen effortlessly through the political and corporate worlds in a career that has seen her repeatedly assist global figures including allies of the Clintons and Tony Blair. After being brought in for Bill Clintons successful 1996 re-election campaign, she worked as special assistant to Mr Clintons chief of staff, John Podesta. Between 1996 and 2000, Miss Latham held other White House roles including deputy assistant to the president and, until 2000, deputy director of presidential scheduling. That position brought her close to the then-first lady. After George W Bush won the 2000 presidential election, she moved to Brussels as a government affairs adviser for software giant Microsoft. The next year, she moved again, this time to London to become managing director of Philip Gould Associates, the PR firm set up by the late Lord Gould, the former Labour strategy and polling adviser who was close to Tony Blair. The Blair connection must have helped her move to Freud Communications in 2002. Its founder, Matthew Freud, was not only an ally of Mr Blair, but also had strong Democrat links. In 2005, she was seconded to work for Labours general election campaign, after which she was appointed as special adviser to Tessa Jowell, Mr Blairs culture secretary just as the department learned London would host the 2012 Olympics. Miss Latham left the Government in 2006 to set up her own consultancy. Naturally, her clients reflected her high-level contacts and included the Clinton Foundation and Tony Blair Associates as well as Coca-Cola and the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The shake-up comes as Harry and Meghan prepare for their move away from Kensington Palace to Frogmore Cottage (pictured) on the Windsor Castle estate In 2008, she returned to Washington DC after a farewell party at a trendy Mayfair bar to work again for the Democrats. This time she was employed by Barack Obama as he prepared to enter the White House. He had, of course, defeated her old boss Hillary Clinton in a heated battle for the Democrat nomination. But the Clintons endorsed Mr Obama at the partys 2008 convention, urging supporters to vote for him. An expert, it appears, at helping politicians transition into power, Miss Latham doesnt hang around long in government nor anywhere else, it seems. By 2011 she had returned to the corporate world as non-executive chairman of iEnergizer, a supplier of back-office services to banks which is run by multimillionaire Anil Agarwal. Even in business, she did not allow her political links to wither, and was described in a 2012 report as the go-to girl for top Democrats visiting London. Miss Latham reportedly advised Michelle Obama on which restaurants to visit in the UK. The year after it was back to politics to join Hillary Clintons campaign for president. Miss Latham was appointed chief of staff to John Podesta, now chairman of Mrs Clintons campaign. A presidential candidates selection of running mate is an enormously sensitive operation. John McCain discovered this when he disastrously chose Sarah Palin in 2009 and internal staff tensions were leaked to the media. Mrs Clinton was determined that shouldnt happen again and Miss Latham was asked to oversee a VP selection process that was shrouded in secrecy. As part of a covert operations team, Miss Latham marshalled reports drawn up by 15 law firms asked to vet candidates. She then printed them out in secret and posted them to Mrs Clinton. As Mrs Clinton flew with Senator Tim Kaine her eventual choice to the Florida rally where she would break the news, Miss Latham lightened the mood by persuading him to pull out his harmonica. He obliged, playing a Beatles tune. Confident she would win comfortably, Mrs Clinton appointed Miss Latham one of three aides to oversee transition planning for her new administration. That particular transition, of course, was never to happen. Sara Latham likes to move on regularly in her career. One hopes for the duke and duchesss sake she hangs around long enough to handle their often shifting public image. According to UN sources, over 152,000 displaced people registered in a week. 27 civilians killed and 31 others injured since April 29, many are women and children. The government army has stepped up attacks since late January, when the area ended up under the control of the jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Aleppo (AsiaNews) The situation in Idlib is one of "great uncertainty" and no forecasts can be made about developments in the coming days says the Apostolic Vicar of Aleppo of the Latins, Msgr. Georges Abou Khazen, commenting on the clashes between government and jihadist groups in the north-west of Syria. However, the prelate adds, there is "profound concern" for a serious escalation of tension and for the repercussions it may have on the lives of civilians. According to the United Nations reports, last week's clashes in the Idlib region between the government army - supported by the Russian ally - and opposition forces and jihadist groups have pushed at least 150 thousand people to flee. The violence also caused dozens of deaths and injuries, although there are conflicting sources on the numbers. The recent escalation of attacks has raised new fears about an "imminent" offensive by government officials. Hence the decision of thousands of people to pour onto the streets in an attempt to escape. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has appealed to the parties to abide by the deadlines set by the truce concerning Idlib, Aleppo and Hama. Rescue groups close to the anti-Assad opposition report the death of 20 civilians killed in Russian-Syrian air raids yesterday; according to UK-based NGO the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, there were 13 victims. Sources of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (Ohchr) speak of at least 27 civilians killed and of 31 others injured since 29 April; many of these are women and children. Idlib province is the last stronghold still in the hands of rebel groups (supported by neighboring Turkey) and jihadist militias. At least three million people live in the area; attacks by the government army have intensified sincethe jihadist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham took full control in late January. David Swanson, spokesman for the UN department for humanitarian affairs underlines "We are alarmed by the news of airstrikes on population centers and civil infrastructures. Over the last week alone, over 152,000 displaced men, women and children have been registered in the governorates of Aleppo and Idlib . Children are young as four dressed in Russian military uniforms are being taught to march ahead of Thursday's biggest Kremlin armed forces display of the year. One group of boys and girls aged around six even paraded with models of the American M16 rifle. The spectacle - shown on a video that has gone viral in Russia amid claims of a growing militarisation of the country. Russian children are being dressed in military uniform and taught to march ahead of Thursday's biggest Kremlin armed forces display of the year. One group of children were seen parading with models of the American M16 rifle. It comes as Vladimir Putin's 'Yunarmia' - likened by critics to the Hitler Youth in Nazi Germany which offers military training to eight to 18 year olds - has swelled in numbers to more than half a million. The extraordinary march of kindergarten and primary school age children was from Pyatigorsk where the children were dressed infantrymen, pilots, sailors, artillery troops and military nurses. Local officials claimed it is important children learn about the sacrifices of the Second World War - when tens of millions of Soviet troops and civilians perished - and patriotism. The spectacle was organised under the direction of Russia's southern military district and involved around 500 children. The spectacle - shown on a video that has gone viral in Russia amid claims of a growing militarisation of the country It comes as Vladimir Putin's 'Yunarmia' - likened by critics to the Hitler Youth in Nazi Germany which offers military training to eight to 18 year olds - has swelled in numbers to more than half a million The extraordinary march of kindergarten and primary school age children was from Pyatigorsk where the children were dressed infantrymen, pilots, sailors, artillery troops and military nurses Local officials claimed it is important children learn about the sacrifices of the Second World War - when tens of millions of Soviet troops and civilians perished - and patriotism The spectacle was organised under the direction of Russia's southern military district and involved around 500 children Education chief Natalya Vasyutina said: 'The sooner patriotic education begins, the healthier society will be. 'This is not just a fun game. This is our gratitude, our memory, our pride.' Pyatigorsk mayor Andrey Skrypnik said: 'There are hundreds of young citizens here. 'And it means that the connection of the generations is alive and inseparable.' Education chief Natalya Vasyutina said: 'The sooner patriotic education begins, the healthier society will be. This is not just a fun game. 'This is our gratitude, our memory, our pride' Pyatigorsk mayor Andrey Skrypnik said: 'There are hundreds of young citizens here. And it means that the connection of the generations is alive and inseparable' Similar parades have been held in other cities, or are planned Vladimir Putin will take the salute on Thursday at the massive annual Victory Day parade in Red Square commemorating the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany Tamara Pletneva criticized the military parades involving kindergarten children as in Pyatigorsk, 'Tell them that they shouldn't do it - to take children to parade with weapons,' she said Similar parades have been held in other cities, or are planned. Vladimir Putin will take the salute on Thursday at the massive annual Victory Day parade in Red Square commemorating the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany. It will involve 13,000 troops and showcase some of the latest weaponry in the Kremlin's burgeoning military arsenal. But Tamara Pletneva criticized the military parades involving kindergarten children as in Pyatigorsk, 'Tell them that they shouldn't do it - to take children to parade with weapons,' she said. 'Do not involve the little ones.' She added: 'Do not involve the little ones' Expert Alexander Gezalov angrily hit out at the plan to 'dress them in uniform' He said: 'Nobody is left to protect orphans if the children's ombudsmen are pushing them into these military units' 'They should be dealing with completely different matters,' Mr Gezalov added Psychologist Nikolay Scherbakov complained: 'This idea is non-professional and immoral' The picture of the children carrying model guns was later removed from an official site. Meanwhile, Putin's separate Yunarmia - or 'youth army' - has grown by almost 150,000 recruits in seven weeks to top half a million. Supporters say the force, set up in 2015, keeps children out of trouble while fostering patriotism. Recruits are taught military drills, how to handle Kalashnikovs, wrestling, and parachute jumping. This young child dons full Russian military uniform as he holds a bouquet while in line to make a floral tribute Older army members hold hands with the young children and together pay respects with flowers at a memorial A choir of young children sing for the crowd gathered in Pyatigorsk city Recently Russia's 50,000 orphans have been urged to join, amid claims they are being dragooned to sign up. Critics say these children will not be able to say no because are under the state's direct control. In Soviet times, orphans were also recruited to the military and KGB. This comes after Putin's separate Yunarmia - or 'youth army' - has grown by almost 150,000 recruits in seven weeks to top half a million Supporters say the force, set up in 2015, keeps children out of trouble while fostering patriotism Recruits are taught military drills, how to handle Kalashnikovs, wrestling, and parachute jumping Recently Russia's 50,000 orphans have been urged to join, amid claims they are being dragooned to sign up. In Soviet times, orphans were also recruited to the military and KGB Expert Alexander Gezalov angrily hit out at the plan to 'dress them in uniform'. He said: 'Nobody is left to protect orphans if the children's ombudsmen are pushing them into these military units. 'They should be dealing with completely different matters.' Psychologist Nikolay Scherbakov complained: 'This idea is non-professional and immoral.' But Col-General Viktor Bondarev, who once headed Russia's strategic rocket forces and is now a senior pro-Putin senator, bemoaned that modern children are 'afraid of machine guns' and do not know how the throw a hand grenade When it was formed one Russian news website complained that the Yunarmia was 'plagiarising Hitler Youth' - but the report was swiftly removed 'plagiarising Hitler Youth' - but the report was swiftly removed. 'Something similar to German organisation Hitler Youth is coming from Russia,' it stated But Col-General Viktor Bondarev, who once headed Russia's strategic rocket forces and is now a senior pro-Putin senator, bemoaned that modern children are 'afraid of machine guns' and do not know how the throw a hand grenade. When it was formed one Russian news website complained that the Yunarmia was 'plagiarising Hitler Youth' - but the report was swiftly removed. 'Something similar to German organisation Hitler Youth is coming from Russia,' it stated. Delayed rail passengers are being forced to provide up to 24 pieces of information to qualify for compensation - including why their train was late. A report by consumer group Which? has accused rail operators of trying to deter disgruntled customers from lodging a claim by making them 'navigate a compensation maze'. It said passengers were often asked for a 'raft of seemingly irrelevant details - putting up potentially unnecessary barriers to receiving compensation they are owed'. Consumer group Which? said passengers were often asked for a 'raft of seemingly irrelevant details - putting up potentially unnecessary barriers to receiving compensation they are owed' The group said this tactic appears to be working, with passengers only claiming for a third (34 per cent) of journeys where money is owed for delays or cancellations. Official figures have shown that train punctuality fell to a thirteen year low last year - with around one in seven services arriving late. But around one in 22 trains were severely delayed or cancelled in the final three months of last year the worst reliability figures for seventeen years. Most trains companies are signed up to 'delay repay schemes - whereby passengers can claim compensation for delays of 15 minutes or more with some providers and half an hour or more with others. But in the worst cases, Which? discovered that train companies - Greater Anglia, London Northwestern, ScotRail, Transport for Wales and West Midlands Trains - are requiring passengers to submit thirteen different pieces of information about their ticket in this part of the form. This includes whether it was a paper ticket, the cost, class, how the ticket was paid for, whether it was at peak time and the dates for which the ticket was valid. A departure board at Poulton-le-Fylde train station showing a cancelled Northern service This is despite the fact most of this information can be found clearly displayed on a photo of the paper ticket which train operators also require passengers to upload as proof of purchase. West Coast main line will be shut again this summer for 16 days One of Britain's busiest rail routes will be shut down again for more than two weeks over the summer while engineering works are carried out. Network Rail warned passengers that the West Coast main line will be out of action for sixteen days between July 20 and August 4. Passengers using operators including Virgin Trains will have to take alternative routes The work will take place on the Acton Grange junction in Warrington - between Crewe and Preston - which is used by more than 260 trains a day. Work will be carried out to upgrade the track, cabling, overhead lines and signalling. It means further disruption for those who use the key route from London up to Glasgow and Edinburgh via major cities including Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool. Large parts of the line were closed over the Easter Weekend and the May Day Bank Holiday. Passengers using rail operators including Virgin Trains and London Northwestern and the Caledonian Sleeper will have to take alternative routes or bus replacement services. Martin Frobisher, managing director for Network Rail's London North Western route, described the West Coast main line as Europe's busiest mixed use railway and the 'economic backbone of Britain'. He said: 'With more than 260 trains using this junction every day, it is vital to keep it in good condition. 'We need to replace it and upgrade it to ensure a reliable railway for passengers for many years to come. 'To deliver work of this scale and magnitude, we must close the junction for 16 days this summer. The alternative would be many weekends of disruption to passengers and much higher cost.' Advertisement These same five firms also ask for seven pieces of information about the journey including the departure time, length of delay, reason for the delay and whether it was a direct or a multi-leg journey. As many as 14 of the 24 train companies asked passengers to dig out more detailed ticket information such as the ticket reference number. In contrast, Chiltern - which was praised for having among the easiest claims forms - asked for just two pieces of information about the ticket, the ticket type and proof of purchase. Half of train companies asked passengers why they were making a claim or the reason for the delay. Which? pointed out this was information the train company would be 'better placed to answer and should already hold.' It also said that even the 'best performing companies' - Chiltern Railways and Heathrow Expresss - require passengers to provide ten different pieces of information. Asked why they were demanding this level of detail, rail operators gave a range of responses including the need to deter fraudulent claims and that it was needed for paper tickets without reservations. Some rail firms argued that customers could easily set up an online account to store their personal details, making it easier to claim in the future. Alex Hayman, managing director of public markets at Which? said: 'It's clear this fragmented and confusing compensation system leads to people losing out on a lot of money when they have already suffered enough from unacceptable levels of delays and cancellations. 'The technology exists to deliver compensation automatically, but the industry continues to drag its heels, while benefiting from a system that deters passengers from claiming the money they are owed.' Train operators have come under pressure to make it easier to claim amid growing demands from consumer campaigners to introduce automatic compensation across the industry. Several train companies including C2C, Northern,South Western Railway and Virgin Trains - already offer automatic compensation to customers removing the need for cumbersome form filling. Jacqueline Starr, chief operating officer at the Rail Delivery Group, which represents the rail industry, said: 'Train companies want to make it easy for passengers to claim compensation and asking questions like what train they caught and the price of their ticket ensures they receive what they are entitled to as quickly as possible while also guarding against fraudulent claims. 'We're doing more to encourage claims, including sending reminders to people who booked online, making announcements on trains and handing out claim forms, which has led to an 80 per cent increase in compensation over the last two years to 81m a year.' A former U.S. soldier who was pardoned by Donald Trump this week killing an Iraqi prisoner says he initially didn't answer the White House's phone call because he thought it might be a telemarketer. Michael Behenna, 35, a former Army 1st Lieutenant from Oklahoma, said Wednesday, that he was on the phone with his father when the call came and he didn't recognize the number. But it wasn't until he checked his messages that he found out the president was granting him a pardon and wanted to speak to him personally. Michael Behenna, right, answers a question during a news conference Wednesday, May 8, in Oklahoma City. At his left is his mother, Vicki Behenna. Behenna has been pardoned from his 2009 conviction for killing an Iraqi prisoner Behenna said he didn't recognize the number when the call came from the White House and thought it might be a telemarketer He says he then checked his messages and returned the call when it said President Donald Trump (pictured above on May 6) was granting him a pardon and wanted to speak to him Behenna says the president's office soon called back and Trump told him of the pardon, leaving the ex-solider in tears. Behenna was convicted of unpremeditated murder in a combat zone in the 2008 killing of Ali Mansur Mohamed. He was paroled in 2014 after serving about 5 years of his 15-year sentence. Behenna was convicted of unpremeditated murder in a combat zone in the 2008 killing of Ali Mansur Mohamed. He was paroled in 2014 after serving about 5 years of his 15-year sentence (Behenna pictured above) Facebook photos of Michael Behenna (seen seated right) from his time in Iraq He was scheduled to remain on parole until 2024, before Trump granted the full pardon. On Monday, press secretary Sarah Sanders revealed that the Commander-in-chief had signed an executive grant of clemency for Behenna. Sanders added that Behenna was a model prisoner while serving his sentence, saying that 'in light of these facts, Behenna is entirely deserving' of the pardon. Michael Behenna and girlfriend Britney Benard are seen in a photo from his Facebook pages Michael Behenna, center, is embraced by his brother Brett and then girlfriend Shannon Wahl following his release from prison in Leavenworth, Kansas on March 14, 2014 During his trial, Behenna acknowledged that he took the Iraqi prisoner to a railroad culvert, stripped him naked, and then questioned him at gunpoint about a roadside bombing that had killed two members of his platoon. Behenna said he only shot Ali Mansur Mohamed in self-defense as he had moved toward him and was trying to grab his gun. He was charged with unpremeditated murder in a combat zone. Behenna (pictured center at a press conference Wednesday) said he only shot Ali Mansur Mohamed in self-defense as Mohammed had moved toward him and was trying to grab his gun while the soldier questioned him at gunpoint. Behenna stands with his mother Vicki Behenna, left, and brother Brett Behenna, right A pardon for Behanna attracted broad support from the military, Oklahoma elected officials and the public. Oklahoma's attorney general first requested a pardon for Behenna in February 2018 and renewed his request last month. Meanwhile, Oklahoma's Republican senators, James Lankford and James M. Inhofe, praised Trumps decision on Monday. Advertisement The share of Americans who say they have no doubt that God exists has declined 10 percentage points over the past three decades, according to recent survey data. Some 53 percent of Americans said they have no doubts about a higher power in 2018, compared to 63 percent in 1988, according to the General Social Survey - a comprehensive poll that has tracked American attitudes and beliefs since 1972. Meanwhile, 5 percent of Americans identified as atheists in 2018 - up from 2 percent in 1988. Believers with no doubts still make up the largest share of Americans, followed by the 19 percent who said they believe but have doubt and 13 percent who said they believe in some kind of higher power. An additional 6 percent said they don't know and have no way of finding out if God is real. 'What we see here is the steady growth of a cultural climate that attaches less social stigma to people who publicly express religious doubts,' said Robert Fuller, a professor of religious studies at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. This graph illustrates the decline in the share of Americans who say they believe in God 'without a doubt' over the past three decades. Source: General Social Survey This graph compares 2018 and 1988 survey responses on what Americans believe about God, illustrating a decrease in the share who have 'no doubt' God exists and a rise in those who cite a belief in a 'higher power.' Source: General Social Survey 'Culture is changing enough to remove a bit of this stigma,' he told DailyMail.com. 'Also, education levels are rising thereby encouraging more people to use analytic reasoning, which leads to doubt of beliefs lacking evidence.' Ryan Burge, a political science professor at Eastern Illinois University, noted that culture and religion have evolved in different directions, which could be a contributing factor to changes in Americans' beliefs. 'Our social norms in America have definitely liberalized over time - gay marriage, even things like legalizing marijuana (are more acceptable),' he told DailyMail.com. 'Social norms have moved to the left, but American religions have moved to the right politically in a pretty dramatic way,' Burge added. 'I wonder if people are moving away from how they feel about God because of how it's been politicized?' The GSS survey data also showed that African Americans are more likely than white Americans to believe in God without any doubts (65 percent compared to 51 percent). However, there has been a major decline among both groups since 1988, when 75 percent of black people and 62 percent of white people said they had faith and no doubts. This graph illustrates the share of black and white Americans who say they believe in God 'without a doubt' over the past three decades. Source: General Social Survey 'Religious belief is always higher in individuals living in stressful environments,' Fuller said. 'This is true across the world. To the extent that black Americans have lower incomes than white Americans, they are more likely to be religious. Also, the church as a social institution has been extremely important in African-American history.' The downward trend has been more pronounced among African Americans, falling 9 points just since 2016, when 76 percent had no doubts. White Americans are also more likely to be atheists than black Americans (5.4 percent compared to 1.4 percent). The numbers also split along political lines, with 68 percent of Republicans reporting that they believe in God and have no doubts, compared to 49 percent of Democrats and 48 percent of independents. Democrats and independents have seen sharp declines since 1988, when 64 percent and 61 percent, respectively, had faith without doubt. In addition, 7 percent of Democrats are atheists, compared to 2 percent of Republicans and 5 percent of independents. Differences also emerged among the four major regions of the U.S., with Southerners most likely to believe in God with no doubt, at 63 percent, followed by the Midwest (49 percent), the West (45 percent) and the Northeast (44 percent). This graph illustrates the share of Republicans, Democrats and independents who say they believe in God 'without a doubt' over the past three decades. Source: General Social Survey This graph illustrates the share of Americans from each major region of the country who say they believe in God 'without a doubt' over the past three decades. Source: General Social Survey However, Southerners have had a significant decline since 2014, when 72 percent had faith absent of doubt. All regions have seen an overall decrease in doubtless believers since 1988. People who live in the West are most likely to be atheists (7 percent), followed by Midwesterners (5.7 percent), those in the Northeast (5 percent) and Southerners (2.6 percent). Women are also far more likely than men to believe in God without a doubt (59 percent compared to 46 percent). However faith has declined among both genders since 1988, when 69 percent of women and 57 percent of men said they had no doubt. Some 6 percent of men are atheists, compared to 3.5 percent of American women. Fuller cited global studies that ask participants to read a short description of a few people's personalities with the only difference being that one half of the respondents received descriptions that mention the imaginary person is an atheist. Participants were far more likely to say that the atheists could not be trusted. 'The odd thing about this is that actually we should trust doubters/atheists more since they are being as honest as possible,' Fuller said. 'But we are wired to look for signals of submission to the group and thus we have this tendency to be wary of those who don't signal group submission.' Pictured: Norwegian investor and self-described 'relationship expert' Sigurd Vedal An entrepreneur and his firm were fined more than 200,000 for promoting prostitution through a 'sugar daddy' dating website for rich men and young women. Norwegian investor and self-described 'relationship expert' Sigurd Vedal, 57, runs Rich Meet Beautiful - a website encouraging young women to meet and date rich older men. The company, which set up billboards outside universities trying to lure debt-saddled students into using the platform, was fined more than 200,000 at a Belgian court - and Vedal was personally fined 20,000 and given a six-month suspended jail term. Vedal had been arrested and charged with 'incitement to debauchery and prostitution' after the Free University of Brussels complained when a poster appeared on campus showing a barely-covered woman's bosom with the slogan: 'Hey female students, improve your lifestyle, go out with a sugar daddy'. During the website's advertising campaign in the UK, five giant billboards were sent on tour in the hopes of getting 100,000 students to sign up in 2018. The huge advertisements, which appeared to be poorly translated, showed a couple cuddling alongside the caption: 'Romance, passion, fun & 0,- in study loan? Date a sugar daddy or sugar mama'. The website advertised in the UK, sending five giant billboards on a tour of institutions in an aim to get 100,000 British students to sign up in 2018 The CEO of sugar daddy dating website RichMeetsBeautiful was given a six-month suspended jail term Among the universities targeted were Regents University, Kings College London, the London School of Economics and the City of London Law School. Laurent Kennes, lawyer for the Free University of Brussels, welcomed today's sentence. 'The site's temporary closure becomes definitive in Belgium,' Kennes said. 'The decision on whether to appeal belongs to my client,' Vedal's lawyer Eric Cusas said without elaborating. During his trial last month, Vedal insisted that he simply wanted to encourage customers to seek dates that were 'out of the ordinary'. Sigurd Vedal, who runs RichMeetBeautiful.com, ran adverts telling students to 'improve your style of life [by getting] a sugar daddy' across the country Universite Libre de Bruxelles, pictured, complained, leading to Vedal being charged with debauchery, public incitement to debauchery and violating anti-sexism laws But the state prosecutor denounced this argument as 'hypocritical' and told the court: 'Even if weasel words were used, everyone knew what it was about. 'There are half-dressed women on the site, there are no photos of couples in a restaurant,' she said. 'Students are reduced to sex objects that must undress for money.' Vedal is also under investigation in France, accused of 'aggravated pimping' after publicising a version of his site on a Paris campus. Belgium's anti-sexism laws, introduced in 2014, define sexism as a remark or action that is 'intended to express contempt', suggests someone is inferior due to their gender or is designed to 'reduce someone to his or her sexual dimension'. A man who told a female police officer, 'Shut your mouth, I don't talk to women, being a police officer is not a job for women,' was the first person convicted under the law in March last year. Thefts of pugs - whose owners include Paris Hilton have soared by 500 per cent in a year Dog thefts have risen for the fourth year in a row, with pets being stolen at a rate of around five a day. Cases of 'dognapping' increased by 4 per cent last year to 1,959, compared with 1,879 in 2017, police figures show. Fashionable flat-faced breeds made popular by celebrity owners are increasingly targeted as they can be sold for high prices. Thefts of pugs, for example whose celebrity owners include Hugh Laurie and Paris Hilton have soared by 500 per cent in a year. They went from 11th most stolen breed in 2017 four cases to fifth most stolen last year at 24. French bulldogs, meanwhile owned by celebrities including Hugh Jackman, Reese Witherspoon and David Beckham were the fourth most stolen breed, with 51 cases last year against 45 in 2017. French bulldogs owned by celebrities including Hugh Jackman were the fourth most stolen breed, with 51 cases last year against 45 in 2017 The most commonly stolen dog remains the Staffordshire bull terrier, although thefts of the breed have dropped by 49 per cent from 172 in 2017 to 88 last year. Trendy 'crossbreeds' such as labradoodles a cross between a labrador and a poodle and puggles, a beagle/pug cross, were the second most commonly stolen dog, with 53 cases last year. TOP TEN MOST STOLEN DOG BREEDS Rank Breed 2017 thefts 2018 thefts % change 1 Staffordshire Bull Terrier 172 88 -49% 2 Crossbreed 73 53 -27% 3 Chihuahua 44 52 18% 4 French Bulldog 45 51 13% 5 Jack Russell 34 39 15% 6 Pug 4 24 500% 7 English Bulldog 3 22 633% 8 Cocker Spaniel 20 14 -30% 9 Labrador 35 12 -66% 10 Terrier 4 11 175% ALL BREEDS 1,879 1,959 +3% Chihuahuas were third most stolen, with 52 taken last year, an 18 per cent increase from 2017 (44 cases). There has also been a rise in the number of stolen Jack Russell terriers (up 15 per cent). Only 17 per cent of stolen dogs are returned to their owners, according to police figures obtained by Direct Line Insurance. Thefts of some breeds fell, with the number of huskies stolen falling by 88 per cent to two last year. The number of rottweilers and springer spaniels stolen also decreased, with only five and one of each breed taken respectively. A spokesman for the insurance firm said: 'Dogs are a huge part of the family, so it causes real distress and trauma when they are stolen. It is heartbreaking.' A 62-year-old Utah man has died after a teenage boy attacked him for sexually assaulting his younger sister on a bus, an incident that police say never happened. Michael Andrew Fife was attacked by the 17-year-old boy on April 23. According to Logan police, a 16-year-old girl told her older brother that she was sexually assaulted on a Cache Valley Transit District bus. The girl claimed that she was attacked by Fife around 3pm while they were both on the bus. Michael Andrew Fife (pictured), 62, of Utah, has died after a teenage boy attacked him for sexually assaulting his younger sister on a bus, an incident that Logan police say never happened. He succumbed to his injuries on April 27 According to Logan police, a 16-year-old girl told her older brother that she was sexually assaulted on a bus by Fife (pictured) around 3pm Authorities said the teen boy immediately went after Fife and attacked him near 300 South and 100 West while he was getting off the bus, according to KSL. Fife suffered head injuries and was left unconscious, and the teen fled on foot. A witness called first responders and the victim was rushed to Logan Hospital. Three hours later, around 6.15pm, the girl called police to report the alleged attack. Investigators reviewed video footage of the incident that showed Fife walking past the girl, but authorities said no sexual assault occurred, according to KSL. Fife's family, said that his injuries were so bad that he was transferred to McKay Dee Hospital in Ogden. He succumbed to his injuries on April 27. Authorities said the teen boy immediately went after Fife and attacked him near 300 South and 100 West (pictured) while he was getting off the bus The teen girl claimed the incident occurred on a Cache Valley Transit District bus (file image). When police reviewed the footage, it showed Fife walking past the girl, but authorities said no sexual assault occurred. Police are still investigating the incident According to the family's GoFundMe, doctors had to perform emergency surgery on Fife's skull to relieve the swelling of his brain. The family said Fife leaves behind his only child Michael Andrew Fife II. Fife's friends created the account to help the family with funeral costs. 'The financial burden of this unforeseen act of violence, falls to Mike. Mike is currently not in the best of situations and cannot afford to lay his dad to rest without a little help,' the account reads. Authorities are still investigating the case. The identities of the teenagers have not been released. President Donald Trump said out of nowhere on Wednesday that he was against a bill that would allow a Native American tribe to build a casino in Massachusetts on contested land. The bill was scheduled to come for a vote in the House of Representatives in the afternoon. Trump urged Republicans in an eleventh-hour tweet, invoking one of his favorite political foes, to vote against the legislation. 'Republicans shouldn't vote for H.R. 312, a special interest casino Bill, backed by Elizabeth (Pocahontas) Warren. It is unfair and doesn't treat Native Americans equally!' he claimed Democrats pulled the bill from consideration after the tweet that threw the legislation into jeopardy. President Donald Trump said out of nowhere on Wednesday that he was against a bill that would allow a Native American tribe to build a casino in Massachusetts on contested land The bill was scheduled to come for a vote in the House of Representatives in the afternoon. Trump urged Republicans in an eleventh-hour tweet that invoked one of his favorite political foes to vote against the legislation, and Democrats pulled the bill After the tweet, a connection emerged between the White House and a group that's lobbying against the deal. A top adviser to the president, Mercedes Schlapp, is married to the lobbyist for a group that opposes the bill Massachusetts' Warren was the co-sponsor of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Reservation Reaffirmation Act in the last Congress. She's running for president and came under fire last year for making inaccurate claims about her heritage. Although the president mentioned her in the tweet, it wasn't immediately clear if her attachment to it drove his desire to shut the legislation down. A Democratic congressional source told DailyMail.com the bill that would end a legal challenge to the tribe's claim to reservation land had no major opposition. That is, until Trump told his legislative affairs director to get involved the night before the vote. The White House signaled its opposition to the bill Tuesday evening to House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, the source said. McCarthy pushed back, and Trump tanked the bill by tweet. Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is seeking to build a casino on its 321-acre reservation in Massachusetts. First, it must have the U.S. declare its reservation lawful. A judge and the U.S. Interior Department have already ruled against the tribe. Rhode Island lawmakers were against recognition of the reservation that would jeopardize the state's gambling revenues. The state's two, Democratic senators - Sheldon Whitehouse and Jack Reed - threatened to block the legislation. 'We will be obliged to use all avenues to block this legislation if there is an attempt to move it,' they told Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer in a January letter. It seemed Wednesday that they wouldn't have to - the president did it for them in a midday proclamation. After Trump's tweet, a connection emerged between the White House and a group that's lobbying against the deal. Matt Schlapp, the chairman of the American Conservative Union and a principal at Cove Strategies, has represented Twin River Management Group since February of this year, the website Open Secrets says. Twin River manages casinos in Rhode Island - a state that stands to lose $37 million by 2024 if Mashpee opens a casino, the Providence Journal writes. The lobbyist's wife, Mercedes Schlapp, works for Trump. She is the White House strategic communications adviser. She was not available to comment on Wednesday, and the White House declined to provide a statement on the issue. Schlapp's husband did not respond to an inquiry from DailyMail.com on Wednesday afternoon about conversations he may have had with Trump or other White House officials about the casino bill. Military officers raided a home in western Mexico and seized a cache of weapons, drugs and plastic-wrapped American dollars belonging to country's most powerful cartel. The military unit was anonymously tipped off to the presence of suspected armed members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel in Jalisco, Guadalajara, earlier this week. According to the Jalisco Attorney General's office, the operation at the farm house in the municipality of Zapopan led to the seizure of 48 military assault rifles, 71 guns and ammunition. Agents also confiscated 17 grenades, three bags of explosive and nine electrical detonators. SEE VIDEO BELOW The Mexican military led an operation this week that confiscated a cache of weapons, drugs, cash and arrested two suspected members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel An anonymous tip from a resident in the western Mexican state of Guadalajara led the military to a farm home where a cartel had stashed 20 kilos of phenacetin, 13 kilos of cocaine, 11 kilos of methamphetamine, 206 grams of heroin and 50 grams of fentanyl The Jalisco Attorney General's office said it seized $208,951 USD and almost $1.1million Mexican pesos, approximately $57,500 USD, hidden inside a safety deposit box The military men also found $208,951 USD and almost 1.1million Mexican pesos, approximately $57,500 USD, that were hidden inside a safety deposit box. The investigation also led to the seizure of drugs that included 20 kilos of phenacetin, 13 kilos of cocaine, 11 kilos of methamphetamine, 206 grams of heroin and 50 grams of fentanyl. Two men, aged 26 and 27, were arrested after they tried to escape. Their names were not released to the press. Agents also impounded a car and two motorcycles. Mexican authorities have been unsuccessful in capturing the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera Cervantes. The United States government is offering a $10million reward for his arrest Stacks of $20 bills were found wrapped inside a plastic bag after the Mexican military raided the suspected farm home of a cartel During a raid earlier this week, military agents seized a car and two motorcycles. One of the confiscated bikes is pictured here The Mexican government has been committed to dismantling the Jalisco New Generation Cartel since President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador took office December 2018. Mexico has been on the manhunt for Nemesio El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, the group's leader since 2015, reportedly spending 7. 659million Mexican pesos as part of 'Operation Jalisco' to bring him in. The U.S. also wants the 52-year-old and has offered a $10million reward for his capture. Under El Mencho's leadership, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel has unleashed a wave of terror that has left thousands of innocent victims dead. The syndicate has taken the war to the three levels of the Mexican police force and its military as well as small-time dealers and rival organizations that include the Sinaloa Cartel - once led by El Chapo - and the Zetas. The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, which is the most powerful cartel in Mexico, has been embroiled in an ongoing turf war with the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel over which group controls the illicit sale of gasoline. Maleah Davis' stepfather's story changed multiple times in the hours after he reported her missing. Derion Vence, 26, walked into a Houston, Texas, hospital on Saturday night with his unharmed one-year-old son, claiming that they had spent the previous 24 hours being held captive by Hispanic men who took four-year-old Maleah. He had visible injuries and officers say 'something clearly happened to him' but details of his story about how Maleah was snatched did not make sense, according to the police department which was first on the scene. 'During our initial interview that he provided, his story changed several times, some of what he described didn't add up,' Doug Adolph, the spokesman for the Sugar Land Police Department, told DailyMail.com on Wednesday. Vence has not been arrested and the hunt for Maleah continues. Derion Vance, whose name is also spelled as Darion, is shown with his stepdaughter Maleah Davis Vence, 26, appeared in a hospital on Saturday night with injuries (left) claiming he had spent the last 24 hours in captivity and that when he woke up, Maleah was gone Sugar Land is not leading the investigation. It turned it over to the Houston Police Department when officers determined that what Vence described happened out of their jurisdiction. Despite reports to the contrary, the police department denied that he was a person of interest when contacted by DailyMail.com on Wednesday. The revelations from Adolph come as the search for the four-year-old enters ends its fifth day. According to Vence, he was driving with Maleah and his son in his car on Friday to pick up her mother, Brittany Bowens, from the airport when he heard a noise and pulled over. Out of nowhere, he said three Hispanic males appeared, said that Maleah looked 'nice' and then hit Vence over the head, knocking him unconscious. He claims that for the next 24 hours, he slipped in and out of consciousness while they drove the three of them around. This is the car Vence was driving when he says the three Hispanic assailants attacked him out of nowhere He says the vehicle was stolen by the men and that he has no idea where it or she is now Vence said his kidnappers were driving a blue pick-up truck similar to this one Maleah's mother, Brittany Bowens, is shown campaigning for information about her whereabouts. Maleah was removed from her home last year after allegations of domestic abuse. She went back to live with her in February this year It ended, he said, when he woke up on the side of the road next to his son but with no sign of Maleah. That is when he went to the hospital in Sugar Land to report the incident. Questions surrounding Maleah's home life have emerged ever since. On Tuesday, it was revealed that she had been removed from her mother's care over allegations of physical abuse. According to records, it was to do with a brain injury which she had to have surgery for this March. Police say Maleah needs extra care because of the brain injury she suffered and required surgery for earlier this year Bowens insists that she got the wound in a fall. She resumed custody of her in February this year. Since she disappeared, Bowens has made an emotional plea for her daughter's safe return. The search for Maleah was rained off on Wednesday and will resume when the weather has improved. Police however shared photographs of the car Vence says she was taken from that he claims was stolen from him. It is a silver Nissan. Anyone with information on Maleah Davis' whereabouts is urged to contact HPD at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. A year after Trump's decision to pull out of nuclear agreement, Iran partially restarts its nuclear programme, lifting limitations on uranium enrichment and heavy water reserves. This is not the end of the nuclear deal, but Irans Rouhani wants guarantees from other parties. Meanwhile, Washington is deploying bombers to the Middle East, as Pompeo makes a surprise visit to Baghdad. Tehran (AsiaNews/Agencies) Exactly one year after US President Donald Trump decided to withdraw from the Iran nuclear agreement, his Iranian counterpart, Hassan Rouhani, announced that his government would partially resume its nuclear programme, uranium enrichment included. Speaking on state television, the Iranian leader informed the remaining signatories United Kingdom, France, Germany, China and Russia that they had 60 days to make good on their promises to protect Irans oil and banking interests. Rouhani said that the deal on Irans nuclear programme had been reached in the worlds interest, but that Irans enemies. i.e. Trump and the US, had forced him to roll back Irans commitment. For this reason, Iran no longer feels bound to keep limitations on uranium enrichment and heavy water reserves. The 60 days deadline applies to the production of higher enriched uranium. Before Rouhanis formal announcement, the Iranian government had already informed the signatories of the deal of its decision, insisting that they have two months to fulfill their commitment to defend Irans oil and banking sectors, which have been hard hit by US sanctions. In May 2018, US President Donald Trump pulled out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) agreed by his predecessor, Barack Obama, and imposed the toughest sanctions on Iran in history. As noted by the International Monetary Fund, this decision has negatively impacted Irans economy, especially its oil exports, which was the goal of the second wave of sanctions that came into effect on 4 November 2018. Despite Washingtons hardline stance, the Islamic Republic continues to honour its commitments under the nuclear agreement, as certified by the IAEA experts. However, in the absence of an adequate response to its concerns, Iran will withdraw from the other commitments undertaken when it signed the deal four years ago. "The JCPOA has a national strategic foundation. It was not an individual or partisan or governmental issue, Rouhani said. Rather, it was a national decision which was made by the entire governing system. At the same time, The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA, Rouhani said. These are actions in line with the JCPOA. In Moscow, where he is on a diplomatic mission, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the decision to suspend some commitments under the deal does not violate it, nor does Iran want to withdraw. In his view, Articles of 26 and 36 entitle Iran to raise complaint about breaches to the international deal in the joint commission. It also allows it to end some or all commitments if one of the parties does not fully uphold the agreement or re-introduces sanctions, which is what the United States did. Tehran's announcement comes a few hours after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a surprise visit to Iraq to secure Baghdad's support against Iran. In parallel, the United States is rearranging its military positioning in Middle East, sending B-52 fighter-bombers, aircraft carriers and warships to the region. For some time, the US administration, driven by National Security Adviser John Bolton, has adopted a bellicose rhetoric against Iran, which is having concrete consequences. Many analysts and experts agree that as a result of escalating tensions, the Islamic Republic might find itself pitted against the United States (plus Israel, Saudi Arabia, Emirates, etc.). Thousands of US and Iranian troops are already operating within easy reach of each other in Syria and Iraq and there is a real danger that an incident might lead to fighting with devastating consequences. The only viable solution is to reopen diplomatic channels between Washington and Tehran, as did the Obama administration under difficult circumstances. However, at present, those fanning the winds of war seem to have the upper hand in the White House. An Austrian murderer who dismembered a prostitute and made goulash from some of her remains was jailed for life today. The man, named only as Alfred U, 64, admitted the crime after already spending roughly half his life behind bars for a series of offences, often sadistic and sexual in nature. A Vienna court passed sentence on grandfather-of-seven Alfred, 13 months after the headless torso of his 28-year-old victim was found at the bottom of the Neusiedler See lake on the Hungarian border. Alfred said he had killed the Hungarian sex worker following an argument at his home over payment and services. The man, named only as Alfred U, 64, admitted the crime after already spending roughly half his life behind bars for a series of offences, often sadistic and sexual in nature 'I knew I had messed up. But I didn't want to go back to prison,' he told the court. He acknowledged having cooked and frozen some of the body parts as a goulash in his home 'perhaps to taste one day'. Defence lawyer Astrid Wagner said her client would appeal the length of the sentence on the grounds the murder was not premeditated. Defence lawyer Astrid Wagner said her client would appeal the length of the sentence on the grounds the murder was not premeditated 'Without the disgusting story of the dismembering and goulash, it would have been a common case,' she suggested. DNA samples enabled investigators to track the killer after the torso was hauled from the lake on April 13 last year, two weeks after he says he murdered the sex worker. German language website Heute (Today) reported that Alfred had met his victim at West Railway Station and gave her his last 50 euros, wanting 'a little tenderness, finally feeling skin again'. But when he bared himself in his bedroom, the victim began to laugh before Alfred choked her, dragged her to the bathroom and dismembered her, Heute reported. Alfred then packed the woman's remains into rubbish bags, which he loaded in to his old Mercedes, and took back his 50 euros to pay for fuel to drive to his reed hut in Rust, Burgenland and disposed of the body in the lake, it was said. He said he had forgot about a body part left in Vienna and could not afford another trip to Rust, so he crushed it and froze it, thinking he could eat it later, according to reports. Britain has gone a week without burning coal for electricity for the first time since the 19th century. Power operator National Grid says coal hasn't contributed to the U.K. electricity mix since the afternoon of May 1. The landmark was reached two years after Britain had its first coal-free day since the Industrial Revolution. Fintan Slye, director of National Grid Electricity System Operator, said Wednesday that coal-free power would become the 'new normal' as Britain generates more power from wind, solar and other renewable sources. The cooling towers of the Drax coal-fired power station near Selby in North Yorkshire in 2015 Earlier this month, Britain set a new record after the National Grid went coal-free for 100 hours. The Government plans to phase out Britain's last coal-fired power plants by 2025 in a bid to cut carbon emissions. Coal currently accounts for under 10 per cent of the country's power output. Of the 31.45 gigawatts (GW) powering the UK on Sunday, none was accounted for by the use of coal-fired power stations. A GW of power will provide enough energy for about 700,000 homes. Sean Kemp, a spokesman for the National Grid, told The Daily Telegraph: 'We broke the record this weekend for the longest period of time without coal. The continuous period of time without any coal generation on the system was just over 100 hours. 'It's becoming a more regular occurrence now. More people have installed solar, more coal is coming off and there's more wind in the system.' If the UK continues at the current rate, it is expected it will far surpass the 1,800 hours of coal-free power generated over the whole of 2018. The National Grid believes that by 2025 it will be able to fully operate Britain's electricity system with zero carbon. Pictured: A pylon in Birmingham The National Grid spokesman said that although Britain has experienced a cold snap following an unseasonably warm Easter, there has been no obvious surge in demand to suggest the public have been turning the heating back on. A government spokesman said: 'Decarbonising our energy system is a crucial part of our commitment to ending our contribution to global warming. 'This year we've already reached the major milestone of 1,000 hours without using coal to power our homes and industry. 'We're closing in on phasing out coal entirely from our power system by 2025 as our renewables sector goes from strength to strength on our path to becoming the first major economy to legislate for net zero emissions.' A spokesman for the National Grid added: 'As more and more renewables come onto our energy system weekends like this are going to increasingly seem like the 'new normal'. We believe that by 2025 we will be able to fully operate Great Britain's electricity system with zero carbon. 'The transformation of how we get the energy to heat our homes and power our work is a massive change, but the advantages it brings in terms of green energy far outweigh any challenges.' A Baltimore TV anchor has been fired after a question she asked on air about the gender and race of the city's past three mayors was widely deemed racist and sexist. Mary Bubala confirmed on Tuesday that she had been dropped by Baltimore's WJZ station over her remarks on live television last week. Bubala, who has been with the station 15 years, was covering the resignation of controversial mayor Catherine Pugh when she asked a question about the city's string of past leaders. Mary Bubala (left) confirmed on Tuesday that she had been dropped by Baltimore's WJZ station over her remarks on live television last week as she covered the resignation of controversial mayor Catherine Pugh 'We've had three female, African American mayors in a row. They were all passionate public servants. Two resigned, though. Is this a signal that a different kind of leadership is needed to move Baltimore City forward?' she asked. The question, which was directed to Loyola University Maryland professor Karsonya Whitehead, was about the previous three mayors Sheila Dixon, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Catherine Pugh. It prompted immediate outrage from viewers who urged WJZ to take action against the veteran TV anchor. Bubala immediately apologized in the wake of the backlash, saying the question did not come out the way she had intended. She issued a statement on Facebook on Tuesday confirming that she had been fired. 'In my 22 years of working in TV news in Baltimore - 15 of those years with WJZ - I have always treated people with the utmost respect and dignity. I loved my job because I loved the people of Baltimore,' she said. 'Last week I realized I made a mistake in the language I used on air. I immediately apologized for any hurt I unintentionally caused. I received immediate support from WJZ because they knew it was not in my heart to intentionally cause this kind of harm. I wanted to do an on-air apology but was not allowed. I hope that the people of Baltimore know that I would never do anything to hurt anyone 'Unfortunately, I now stand in the path of the tornado. WJZ was forced to let me go. I am saddened and shocked by this decision.' Pugh resigned last week following a scandal that has put her in the crosshairs of federal, state and city investigators trying to unravel the murky financial arrangements of her self-published children's books. Bubala, who has been with the station 15 years, issued a statement on Facebook on Tuesday confirming that she had been fired Catherine Pugh resigned last week following a scandal that has put her in the crosshairs of federal, state and city investigators trying to unravel the murky financial arrangements of her self-published children's books In late March, Pugh had described her no-contract $500,000 arrangement to sell her 'Healthy Holly' books to a university-based health care system as a 'regrettable mistake' and offered apologies. Other customers included a Maryland financier who divulged that his financial firm decided to write a $100,000 check for 'Health Holly' books after she clinched the 2016 Democratic primary. She also sold tens of thousands of books to customers including a $4 billion hospital network she once helped oversee and health carriers with business before the city. Pugh's resignation came exactly a week after her offices, homes and multiple other locations were raided by FBI and IRS agents and it became clear that a federal grand jury has been empaneled. She is the second Baltimore mayor in less than a decade to step down because of scandal . She came to office contrasting her clean image with her main opponent, former Mayor Sheila Dixon, who was forced to depart office in 2010 as part of a plea deal for misappropriating about $500 in gift cards meant for needy families. McDonald's worker Sarah Jane Lockner, 26, who tried to drown her newborn in a toilet after giving birth at work in 2017 wont serve any time in prison A McDonald's worker who gave birth in a bathroom in the fast food restaurant and tried to flush the baby down the toilet will not serve any jail time. Sarah Jane Lockner, 27, had pleaded no contest to child endangerment after she was caught by colleagues inside a stall, surrounded by a pool of blood. She has been placed on four years of supervised probation and one year in county jail with credit for time served. She was ordered to take parenting class in court on Friday, according to San Francisco Gate. Lockner took a plea deal in January after prosecutors initially charged her with attempted murder. She instead pleaded no contest to felony child endangerment. Lockner had been working the evening shift at a Redwood City, California, McDonald's in September 2017, when she started complaining of stomach pains, according to reports. When her boss told her she could leave early, at around 10pm, she instead went to the bathroom. Lockner gave birth inside the McDonald's bathroom, where she worked, on September 4, 2017 Staff became concerned and two female employees then went to check on Lockner, KTVU reports. They found her inside a stall, surrounded by a pool of blood. She said it was from a heavy period. But when one of the workers looked over the top of the toilet door she said she saw Lockner give birth to a baby. Her shocked colleague then said she saw Lockner try to flush the baby boy down the toilet head first. Lockner asked the co-worker not to tell anyone, but she immediately called 911. Paramedics rushed to the scene, and though the baby boy was not breathing and didn't have a pulse, they were able to resuscitate him. He was taken to the hospital where he was put into a medically induced coma and survived. San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe said the boy is now living with his fathers aunt. In January he told The Mercury News: 'The hope is that the child will recover fully.' Lockner had been arrested on charges of attempted murder and child abuse. Two female employees went to check on her and found Lockner had given birth to a baby boy in a restroom stall at the McDonald's. Lockner had been working the evening shift at a Redwood City, California McDonald's when she started complaining of stomach pains She allegedly told police that she had no idea she was pregnant, and neither did her boyfriend. It was revealed Lockner had already given birth to a baby boy in the bathroom of her own home in 2014. She reportedly claimed that she did not know she was pregnant before either of her two births, the San Francisco Gate reported. Wagstaffe said: 'Most women aren't delivering babies in toilets but she seems to have a penchant for it.' Despite having been born under similar circumstances, Lockner's other child is 'normal and fine,' according to Wagstaffe. The family of one of the navycorpsman shot dead in an apparent triple murder suicide say she was 'the innocent victim of senseless gun violence while trying to help a friend.' Meaghan Burns, 23, was one of three active duty service members found dead in Virginia on Saturday night. Burns was found along with Shianne Soles, 19, of Veradale, Washington, fatally shot in their torsos at a 7-Eleven in Portsmouth at about 11.30 p.m. Meaghan Burns, 23, (pictured) was one of three active duty service members found dead in Virginia on Saturday night Soles, who turned 19 in April, (pictured above) was said to have enlisted in the Navy in July 2018 Authorities also found Donovan Moora, 22, of New York, with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to his upper body inside a car at a nearby Dollar General store. The relationship between the trio has not been disclosed. 'Meggy was a free spirit, a fierce and loyal friend and loving daughter and sister. She will be missed by many and loved forever,' Burns' obituary reads. 'She was a proud sailor and was planning to further her career in healthcare at the end of her enlistment,' the family added. All three service members were declared dead on the scene. Police believe that Moora shot Soles and Burns before turning the gun on himself, according to the Virginian-Pilot. Moora (pictured) was said to have been found in his car, fatally wounded, at a nearby Dollar General store At least one witness said he saw the entire incident as it happened. Robert Joyner, who lives across the street from the 7-Eleven told 10 On Your Side that he went 'running across the street and looked in the car and there was two females laid over both dead in the car and a bunch of bullet holes in the windows' Soles and Burns were stationed at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, while Moora was stationed at Field Medical Training Battalion East in Jacksonville, North Carolina. The Soles family released a statement to KREM2 Tuesday calling their daughter 'a bright light that would flood the room wherever she went,' saying there were no words that could describe their pain. 'She was a friend to everyone that met her and never turned down anyone that needed help, day or night ... She was driven, focused, and brave until her light faded too soon,' the statement added. 'Meggy was a free spirit, a fierce and loyal friend and loving daughter and sister. She will be missed by many and loved forever,' Burns' obituary reads (Burns is pictured above) Soles (pictured above) recently graduated from Central Valley High School in Spokane Valley, Washington At least one witness said he saw the entire incident as it happened. Robert Joyner, who lives across the street from the 7-Eleven, told 10 On Your Side that he first thought someone was banging on the screen door, so he ran downstairs to see what was happening. The 'next thing you know you look across the street and the dude is freaking out, screaming, running to his car,' Joyner told the news station. 'I went running across the street and looked in the car and there was two females laid over both dead in the car and a bunch of bullet holes in the windows,' he added. Joyner said that after the man ran from the women's car and got into his own car, he 'heard a bunch more rounds.' 'It's terrifying cause this is supposed to be a neighborhood, you're not supposed to wake up one night after sitting in your room and you find two people laid over dead in the car right in front of the busiest convenience store on the whole block,' Joyner said of the incident. Authorities believe that Donovan Moora, 22, shot Shianne Soles, 19, and Meaghan Burns, 23, at this Virginia 7-Eleven, before turning the gun on himself Saturday night. All three active duty service members were declared dead after the shootings Soles, who turned 19 in April, was said to have enlisted in the Navy in July 2018. She was a recent graduate of Central Valley High School in Spokane Valley, Washington, where she ran track and was a cheerleader, her family told KHQ. Burns enlisted in the Navy in September 2015, while Moora enlisted in November 2017. Detectives with the Portsmouth Police Department Major Crimes Unit and the Navy's NCIS are said to be investigating the incident, WTKR reported. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP (1-888-562-5887). Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren rolled out a new plan to combat the opioid crisis on Wednesday, pledging $100 billion to the initiative. The Democratic presidential candidate said the money would contribute to treatment, provider support and research funds over 10 years. It is based on an existing plan, known as the CARE act, which is being pushed in Congress by Warren in the Senate and Elijah Cummings in the House. 'If the CARE Act becomes law, every single person would get the care they need,' Warren wrote in a Medium post Wednesday. 'Too many folks in Washington care more about protecting the wealthy from paying their fair share than they do about solving these kinds of urgent national problems,' she continue. 'I want to change that.' Warren made her announcement ahead of a two-day trip to West Virginia and Ohio beginning on Friday, where she will highlight the epidemic. One of her stops is Kermit, West Virginia, a town of only 400 people. A congressional report last year revealed a pharmaceutical company shipped about 10,000 pills a day on average to one pharmacy in the small town. Warren is one of the 21 Democrats running in the race to become the party's nomination in 2020. Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren rolled out an aggressive $100 billion plan to combat the opioid epidemic and vowed to donate the money she was given by the family who started Purdue Pharmaceuticals Beverly Sackler's late husband Raymond (left) co-owned and operated Purdue, and she donated $2,500 to Warren's presidential campaign As Warren pushed for an aggressive plan to combat the opioid crisis, her campaign vowed to return money donated to her 2018 Senate campaign by Beverly Sackler, whose late husband Raymond along with his brother Mortimer co-owned and ran Purdue Pharma, the developer of OxyContin. An aide to Warren told Politico on Tuesday that the Democratic candidate would pass the $2,5000 donation to charity, but did not clarify which charity. New Jersey Senator Cory Booker and Colorado Senator Michael Bennett both also took donations from Sackler, Politico reported. Members of the Sackler family also contributed to Warren in her 2012 campaigns. Warren has been highly critical of the Sacklers and the family's role on the addiction epidemic and in her rollout of the plan called for them to go to prison. 'This crisis has been driven by greed, pure and simple. If you don't believe that, just look at the Sackler family,' Warren wrote in her plan outlined in the Medium article before describing how the Sackler family became billionaires off the privately-held pharmaceutical company. The article did not mention her taking their donations. '[H]ere's the thing: the Sacklers made their money pushing OxyContin,' Warren said. 'Pushing it even as study after study demonstrated its addictive potential. Even as hundreds of thousands of Americans died.' Warren said if her opioid plan were to be implemented, people like the Sacklers wouldn't 'get to live the high life' while those suffering as a result of the opioid epidemic continued not to get the help they need. Purdue was the company that introduced OxyContin in 1996, which is one of the prescription drugs most often abused in relation to the opioid epidemic A spokesperson for Warren said the Democratic presidential candidate would donate the funds, but did not specify to which charity 'Instead, they would pay up to help make sure every person gets the care they need,' Warren wrote. 'That's the America we deserve. An America where we take care of each other, where health care for every person who needs it matters more than rich families shielding their wealth. An America where when people like the Sacklers destroy millions of lives to make money, they don't get museum wings named after them, they go to jail.' A spokesperson for the Sackler family said Beverly's donation was made with the best intentions. 'Beverly Sackler is well into her 90s and denigrating her personal donation, made with the best intentions, can serve no proper political purpose,' the spokesperson said Wednesday. 'We would welcome a genuine dialogue with the senator that's fact-based, as the facts clearly demonstrate that the company started by Beverly's family has for decades been the industry leader in combatting opioid abuse while providing products essential for the treatment of serious chronic pain,' the spokesperson continued. In Warren's proposed plan, $4 billion annually would go to states, territories and tribal governments for general funding to combat the crisis; $2.7 billion would be allotted for what Warren says are the 'hardest hit' cities and counties; $1.7 billion would go to health worker training programs; $1.1 billion would incentivize innovative treatment, recovery and harm reduction programs; $500 million would go to expanding access to naloxone, which is an opioid overdose-reversing drug. She would pay for it from her 'wealth tax,' her plan for everyone with a net worth of at least $50 million to pay an annual levy on every thing they own above that figure. Her campaign estimates it would hit 75,000 families with an annual 2 per cent tax on their wealth above $50 million, and according to the campaign would bring in $2.75 trillion in ten years, making the opioid epidemic spending only one of its major uses. The Sackler family is facing hundreds of lawsuits across the country for Purdue's alleged role in the opioid epidemic Some emails from 2001 between Richard Sackler and an acquaitance were shared Wednesday by the Connecticut attorney general. Sackler said those who used drugs and became addicted are 'scum' and 'victimizers' The Sackler family is facing numerous lawsuits across the country alleging fraudulent and negligent behavior that exacerbated the opioid crisis. The lawsuits brought by the attorneys general of Massachusetts and New York name eight members of Sackler family, including Beverly. The family stands accused of 'putting profits above patient safety.' 'This is an extensive lawsuit that leaves no stone unturned,' New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, said at a news conference in March. The latest complaint asserts that while all ten companies named 'caused this disaster together,' Purdue 'undoubtedly tipped the first domino' when it introduced OxyContin in 1996. It was also revealed Wednesday that then-President Richard Sackler wrote in a series of 2001 emails that those who became addicted to to OxyContin were 'victimizers' and 'scum.' 'Abusers aren't victims; they are the victimizers,' the former president wrote in response to an acquaintance who said abusers who died made their choice. 'Abusers die, well that is the choice they made, I doubt a single one didn't know of the risks,' the person wrote in an email to Richard. 'You know what the general ignorant public will say, do away with the drug!! Blame the manufactures (sic), Drs., pharmacist, but NEVER NEVER THE CRIMINAL, HE/SHE, (to be politically correct) is never to blame,' Richard Sackler wrote to the same acquaintance. 'Give me a break, lest I THROW UP! The whole thing is a sham and if people die because they abuse it then good riddance,' he continued. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong released the 2001 email exchange on Wednesday, calling it 'outrageous' and an 'utter disregard for human life.' 'These emails are far more than a momentary lapse in judgment between friendsthey encapsulate the depraved indifference to human suffering that infected Purdue's entire business model,' Tong said. Meghan McCain's husband has slammed Seth Meyers as 'utterly unfunny' in a foul-mouthed tirade over the late night host's uncomfortable interview with his wife. Ben Domenech, publisher of The Federalist, deleted the angry tweets after a few hours on Wednesday, and issued an apology to anyone offended by his remarks about NBC host Meyers. The incident unfolded several hours after McCain, co-host of ABC's The View, appeared in an 11-minute interview on Meyers' show on Tuesday night. During the interview, Meyers said McCain's criticism of Rep. Ilhan Omar as 'anti-Semetic' was 'dangerous' and put the Democratic congresswoman from Minnesota at risk of death threats. McCain, co-host of ABC's The View, appeared in an 11-minute interview on Meyers' show on Tuesday night, which turned uncomfortable when he grilled her on criticism of Ilhan Omar Ben Domenech, seen above with wife Meghan McCain, tore into Meyers on Twitter in a foul-mouthed tirade, which he quickly deleted and apologized for Hours later, Domenech unloaded on Twitter: 'I see that @sethmeyers, the untalented piece of s**t who only has his job because he regularly gargled Lorne Michaels' balls, went after my wife tonight with his idiotic anti-Semitic bulls**t.' 'Seth is an awful person who is known in the industry for how terrible he is. He is a monumental a**hole who is utterly unfunny. He deserves the mockery he receives from all the people who laugh at him,' Domenech said in another tweet, according to the Daily Beast, which took screenshots before they were deleted. He continued: 'Here is proof that white men get ahead despite their obvious lack of talent. It's @sethmeyers, who would beg for a third of the viewers at @TheView. He's awful, untalented, and a perfect definition of a cuck.' 'Cuck,' a reference to cuckoldry, is an insult that originated among hardliner right-wing circles, who accused moderates of being 'cuckservatives,' but has seeped into broader usage as a term to disparage men as weak and spineless. Domenech went on: 'But the best thing is how much all the people around @sethmeyers talk about what a sh***y person he is. Because oh, it is sad. So terrible, But he deserves all of it.' Several hours later, Domenech issued an apology, writing: 'I love my wife. I apologize for rage tweeting about how Seth Meyers treated her. I don't like him, I think he's a hack, but I shouldn't have done that. I'm sorry to anyone I offended.' During Meyers' interview with McCain, he brought up McCain's commentary following the synagogue shooting at the Poway, California that left one dead last month. McCain had referred to Omar's controversial prior tweets, saying that both Democrats and Republicans have to tackle anti-Semitism within their own parties. When Meyers asked if there is a way to criticize Israel without being anti-Semitic, McCain advised against talking about 'Jews hypnotizing the world' and saying U.S. foreign policy is 'all about the Benjamins', in reference to Omar's remarks. 'You do keep bringing up the two tweets she apologized for,' Meyers told McCain, 'and I think it's a little unfair to her, especially because...' 'Are you her publicist?' McCain shot back. 'Are you her press person?' Meyers accused McCain of putting Omar (above) in danger by criticizing the congresswoman's remarks on Israel and accusing her of 'anti-Semitism' 'No,' replied Meyers. 'I'm just someone who cares about the fact that there's someone out there who is in a minority, who has had death threats against her, and I think we should all use the same language that you're asking her to be careful about her language. And I would ask that everyone be careful about theirs.' For Domenech's publication The Federalist, senior editor David Harsanyi published a more nuanced rebuttal to Meyers on Wednesday. 'McCain condemned Omars words. She didnt concoct a smear,' Harsanyi argued. He called Meyers' argument that Omar should be given a pass from criticism because she is Muslim and has received death threats 'a transparent tactic to chill speech.' 'The idea that McCain put her in danger, as Meyers suggested, is just a way to try and shut people up,' he wrote. Officials say eight people were taken to hospitals after a Spirit Airlines flight returned to a Las Vegas airport gate due to fumes or an odor in the cabin. It is thought to be the third Spirit Airlines flight this month which has been grounded due to mysterious odors. McCarran International Airport spokeswoman Christine Crews says paramedics checked 15 people on Wednesday morning. She said one passenger, six aircraft crew members and one medical responder went to hospitals. The plane had not taken off when it was forced to cancel its journey to Minneapolis after some of those on board reported feeling shortness of breath. A door was immediately opened to allow passengers and crew to evacuate, the airline said. Spirit Airlines spokesman Derek Dombrowski said 174 passengers and seven crew members aboard Spirit flight 170 returned a little before 9 a.m. Wednesday to a terminal at McCarran International Airport. Officials say eight people were taken to hospitals after a Spirit Airlines flight returned to a Las Vegas airport gate because of fumes or an odor in the cabin (stock image) Dombrowski says the smell aboard the Airbus A321 aircraft was said to resemble oil and the aircraft is understood to have been taken out of service while it is looked at by maintenance teams. He said the medic's health issue was not believed to be related to the smell aboard. Spirit is working to transfer passengers to other flights, and is providing refunds and food and travel vouchers, KSTP reports. On Sunday a Spirit flight from Las Vegas to Tampa, Florida, diverted to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport amid reports of a strange smell. Dombrowski says it was because of a sick passenger. Stephen Schuler, director of communications for Spirit, told Fox News on Monday: 'Spirit flight 1128 from Las Vegas to Tampa landed safely in Dallas following reports of an odor onboard. Out of an abundance of caution, the crew decided to divert to DFW for a full mechanical inspection. 'We are investigating the source of the smell and we have placed guests on another plane bound for Tampa. We apologize for any inconvenience to our guests, and we have issued refunds and future travel credits.' And on Friday fumes in the cockpit and cabin of a Spirit Airlines jet flying from Los Angeles to Denver prompted the crew to bring the plane back to Los Angeles International Airport, authorities said. Flight 630, an Airbus A321, landed without incident around 9:50 a.m., said Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor. One passenger was taken to a hospital for evaluation and others were being accommodated on other flights, Spirit Airlines said. The airplane was again taken out of service for inspection by a maintenance team, Dombrowski said, describing the fumes as an 'unknown odor.' DailyMail.com has contacted Spirit Airlines for comment. Culture Secretary Jeremy Wright is pictured outside Downing Street on Tuesday The new web watchdog should not crack down on the Press, the Culture Secretary said yesterday. Jeremy Wright said the body must not duplicate effort by 'trespassing' on areas that are already well regulated. He made his intervention amid mounting fears that draconian laws designed to tame web giants will end up trampling on Press freedoms. Speaking to the Commons digital, culture, media and sport committee, he said: 'I want to make sure we are not duplicating effort, so where there is already a regulatory structure in existence, I don't wish to trespass upon it. 'So for example when you look at the Press, it is not an area where I think we should be asking the regulator to trespass upon because it is regulated in a different way.' Almost all national and local newspapers, including the Daily Mail, are regulated by the Independent Press Standards Organisation, an independent regulator which is entirely free of state control. Other news organisations mostly hyper-local websites are regulated by Impress, which has state recognition. Former culture secretary John Whittingdale drew parallels with China, Russia and North Korea The Government is facing accusations that its Online Harms White Paper paves the way for totalitarian-style censorship. The 98-page document, which is up for consultation, laid out plans for a watchdog that would have the power to block websites if they did not adhere to its rules. The regulator could also remove non-compliant websites from search results and app stores, and stop users from accessing them via links on social media. The plans were designed to force lawless web firms to remove harmful material from their platforms. But they have sparked fears that they could backfire and turn Britain into the first Western nation to adopt the kind of censorship usually associated with totalitarian regimes. Former culture secretary John Whittingdale drew parallels with China, Russia and North Korea. Matthew Lesh of the Adam Smith Institute, a free market think-tank, branded the white paper a 'historic attack on freedom of speech'. Addressing the committee of MPs yesterday, Mr Wright did not back away from the idea of blocking websites. He also said he wanted to bring the legislation forward to the next Parliament. He added: 'What I am keen to do is make sure the regulator has the capacity to act in the scope of user-generated content. I don't exclude from the scope search engines because they are facilitating access to user-generated content. 'The other principles I apply here are that first of all we must be careful not to overload the regulator. I [also] want to make sure we are not duplicating effort.' Last month, he wrote to the Society of Editors to promise that 'journalistic or editorial content would not be affected' by the proposals. However Mr Lesh said yesterday: 'What the Culture Secretary says and the new laws he has set out do not match. Far from keeping Britain home to a free Press, it will leave the country with the most comprehensive online censorship regime in the democratic world. 'This approach is a serious threat to free speech and a free Press.' A rare pink dolphin known to frequent a Louisiana lake appears to have become a mother to another pink dolphin, according to a video shared on Facebook. Known simply as 'Pinky', the bottlenose dolphin has become a local celebrity due to her extremely rare and stunning pink coloration, thought to be caused by a genetic fault. Video captured by Thomas Adams and shared to Facebook on August 21 appears to show two pink dolphins jumping in the wake of a boat in Sulphur, Louisiana in the Calcasieu ship channel. Captain Erik Rue of Calcasieu Charter Service claims to have recently seen Pinky mating and others have said they have seen more than one pink dolphin in the waters nearby over the past several years, though Rue has said he hasn't seen more than one. Known simply as 'Pinky', a rare pink dolphin known to frequent a Louisiana lake appears to have become a mother to another pink dolphin, as shown in a video shared on Facebook. Others said they saw her with a second pink calf in 2017 but couldn't get both on video at the same time KATC viewers voted on names for the baby over social media, and the overwhelming majority thought 'Brain' was the best choice, as a nod to the 90s cartoon titled 'Pinky and the Brain.' Rue said over a decade after first spotting her in 2007, he has seen Pinky dozens of times, though he hasn't personally seen her with baby pink dolphin. 'Ive noticed, shes very sexually active,' Rue told ABC. He said he's generally seen Pinky swimming alone or with a pod of other dolphins. Just a few years ago, however, she would often be spotted alongside her normal-colored mother. Captain Erik Rue of Calcasieu Charter Service was the first to spot her in 2007, and said she appeared to have been mating recently, though he's only seen one pink dolphin out and about Mr Rue claims Pinky's whole body is '100 percent pink' like that of most dolphins bellies. Others claimed to have seen two pink dolphins in the area in 2017, according to KATC, but those people said they could only get one on video. When Rue first photographed Pinky in 2009, Rue described seeing a 'stunningly pink' baby dolphin. When Rue first photographed Pinky in 2009, Rue described seeing a 'stunningly pink' baby dolphin He said at the time: 'The mammal is entirely pink from tip to tail and has reddish eyes. The skin appears smooth, glossy pink and without flaws. 'Surprisingly, it does not appear to be drastically affected by the environment or sunlight as might be expected considering its condition, although it tends to remain below the surface a little more than the others in the pod.' Mr Rue added: 'I feel very fortunate to have seen this incredible mammal and lucky to be able to work and live in the area where such a fantastic creature frequents. by Giosue Bonzi The founder of LArche, an organisation that fosters cohabitation of healthy people and people with physical and mental disabilities, passed away last night. LArche is present in 35 countries with 147 communities. Faith and Light, another association Vanier co-founded to bring together people with special needs, their families and friends, is present in at least 80 countries with 1,800 communities. Pope Francis remembers him, as does a Hong Kong missionary, who worked with him. Hong Kong (AsiaNews) Jean Vanier, founder of LArche (The Ark) communities, died yesterday at the age of 90, spending a lifetime building communities in which healthy people and people with physical and mental disabilities live together. Born in 1928 in Geneva (Switzerland), Jean Vanier was a naval officer. At some point he abandoned his military career to study philosophy and work as a teacher. In 1963, an encounter with disabled people led him to help abled and disabled people to live together, encouraging individuals who in the eyes of the world are "healthy" and "efficient" to share with those who are seen as more "fragile". LArche is present in 35 countries with 147 communities. Faith and Light, which brings together people with special needs, their families and friends, is present in at least 80 countries with 1,800 communities. Yesterday, Pope Francis, on his way home from a visit to Bulgaria and North Macedonia, remembered Jean Vanier, expressing his gratitude for his testimony, a man who knew how to read the Christian strength from the mystery of death, the cross, and disease. From the mystery of those who are discarded in the world. He worked not only for the last but also for those who risk being sentenced to death before their birth. He spent his life like that. Let us thank him and God for giving us a man of such great testimony. Father Giosue Bonzi, a PIME missionary, for almost 50 years in Hong Kong, met and worked with Jean Vanier. Fr Bonzi is one of the founders of the Fu Hong Society, a network of family homes where healthy people and people with disabilities can live together. Before meeting Jean personally, I came to know his spirit and his mission by reading a book that a friend had sent me from Italy, La comunita, luogo del perdono e della festa (original title in French La Communaute : lieu du pardon et de la fete; English edition: Community and growth). It was 1981: about four years before I started the Fu Hong Society (FHS). I was very impressed and curious to know more of him and his work. In the spring of 1982, during my holidays back in Italy, I visited the Faith and Light community in Rome, where I met its Italian founder, Mariangela Bertolini, who enthusiastically arranged a meeting with her great friend Jean. In 1971 Mariangela had participated in the famous pilgrimage to Lourdes with him and her friend Marie-Helene Mathieu, along with thousands of people with intellectual disabilities, as well as their parents and friends. Thus, travelling by train, I arrived in Trosly-Breuil where I stayed for a few days at the first LArche community. In addition to Jean, I met his elderly mother Pauline and Fr Thomas Philippe, his spiritual director. Of course, there were various friends with disabilities around them, in various homes around the first one, which has a chapel for perpetual Eucharistic worship, a converted stable with the original manger and other local fittings. In such a background conducive to prayers, I frequently met Jean, but I had to wait quietly for more than a day to talk to him one to one. He was extremely busy. I had other valuable occasions for long and pleasant conversations with his mother and Fr Thomas. In such a place, one can breathe in the ambient spirituality, absorb it by "immersion". The talk with Jean was very warm. I told him about the mandate I had received from Christian communities from various denominations. I invited him to visit Hong Kong. He didn't give me any timetable, but assured me that he really wanted to come and visit us. In September 1990, Jean finally came to Hong Kong, welcomed by the first local Faith and Light community. In 1990 I was asked to serve as a chaplain of the Faith and Light community (there are three now). Jean began inviting me to the spiritual retreats and training courses he organised in the Far East. I meet him twice in Korea, in the Philippines, in Taiwan ... In 1994 I was invited to the Faith and Light International Meeting in Warsaw (Poland), then the one in Quebec City (Canada) in 1998, and in Rome (2002). One of the most appealing moments for locals was the celebration of Mass with friends with disabilities from all the continents, as well as and especially the "Fiesta", in which everyone is encouraged to show off the typical costumes of their country and culture. In the fall of 1999, I was invited to spend a week attending spiritual exercises at Versailles, preached by Jean, specifically for chaplains, Catholic and Protestant, of Faith and Light communities. During Holy Week and Easter 2001, Faith and Lights 30th anniversary, I accompanied the Hong Kong delegation to Lourdes, where over 24,000 pilgrims people with disabilities, family and friends came together. I want to thank the Lord for having had the opportunity of meeting Jean Vanier and actively participating in his mission of love and sharing with the "little ones". God granted a tremendous grace when he let us be led by the Spirit of the Risen and living Christ, each one in in our own environment, each with our own community and church commitment, bearing witness to the joy and peace that the inclusion of the weakest in society brings to everyone and to the whole community. This is a true Kairos. For this reason, all of Jean's friends feel in their heart, at his passing, a very strong wish to say "Thank you! Halleluiah! Advertisement The number of migrants apprehended at the Southern border surpassed 100,000 for the second month in a row, as the Trump administration manages an ever increasing number of Central American families streaming to the U.S., federal data shows. According to Homeland Security figures, there were 109,144 migrants encountered in April, including more than 58,000 families and 8,800 unaccompanied children taken into custody. It amounts to an 87 percent increase in monthly arrivals compared to January. Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost told senators on Wednesday that apprehension numbers were 'off the charts,' and she's had to divert agents to care for children. As she spoke, images of Border Patrol agents holding small children flashed behind her. She said shifting resources will not address the crisis. She said she is worried about drugs and other contraband that is getting through as resources are shifted to caring for children. This graph shows the increase in immigrants coming across the Southern U.S. border, including those who cross illegally and those who present themselves at legal checkpoints. Each line represents the first seven months of a different fiscal year, with 2019 already seeing a sharp uptick The increase flow of migrants across the border has forced the Trump administration to start releasing some people immediately after they arrive without processing them through ICE. Trump has pledged to end such a 'catch-and-release' policy, but has so far been stymied by the sheer volume of migrants flowing across the border. Further complicating things is the fact that the government can't legally detain migrant children for more than 20 days, which has led to more of those families being released since Trump ended the administration's policy of separating children from parents last June. As a result of the surge, Department of Homeland Security officials recently started with a small pilot program using a Rapid DNA testing technique, which can yield results in an average of 90 minutes from cheek swabs. ICE officials told CNN that migrants' DNA results will not be stored or shared, but simply used to verify familial relations - particularly for children traveling with people who purport to be family members, officials said. 'This is part of a larger investigative process,' ICE acting Deputy Director Derek Benner told CNN. 'This is not screenings, this is not just random application of this, this is a pilot designed to assess the usefulness of this technology in an investigative process.' The news follows a recent announcement that ICE will reallocate more resources and personnel to the Southern U.S. border, bringing in people from Homeland Security Investigations to root out any 'fake families.' Last month DHS sent specialist teams to Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California that have expertise in detecting smuggling and human trafficking. The increased flow of migrants at the border has been driven largely by people fleeing gang violence, poverty and corruption in the Northern Triangle region of Central America Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador. Most have sought asylum in the U.S., saying they would face threats of violence and death if they returned to their home countries. The process for seeking asylum often last years and many are ultimately unsuccessful. Some immigrants are allowed to live in the U.S. while awaiting their fate in court while others spend the time in detention centers. Cradled in the arms of his doting father, the newest addition to our oldest institution made his public debut at Windsor yesterday beneath the busts and portraits of former monarchs and was then introduced to the current one. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, as the new seventh in line to the throne will be called, snoozed serenely through it all. But then, as an elated Duchess of Sussex explained: Hes just been the dream. Appearing for the first time since giving birth on Monday morning, the duchess could hardly have been happier: Its magic, its pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world. Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, during a photocall with their newborn son, in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle It was all smiles later, too, as the proud parents took their son to meet the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, accompanied by the duchesss mother, Doria Ragland. Baby Archie may be the very model of modern royalty, a British-American descended from William the Conqueror and Robert the Bruce on one side and with African/Irish/Hollywood lineage on the other. He will, for now at least, have no royal title, as the Daily Mail revealed earlier this week. Nor will he be christened with the traditional version of his name. It is to be Archie, not Archibald, all the way. As for Harrison, it was chosen for no other reason than that the couple liked the name and the inference that it suggests a son of Harry. All very 21st century. Yet Archies first official engagement in what could be a lifetime of such occasions could hardly have been more traditional. Instead of inviting cameras into their home at Frogmore Cottage, the duke and duchess had chosen St Georges Hall to present their first-born to the world. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are joined by her mother, Doria Ragland, as they show their new son, born Monday and named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, as the new seventh in line to the throne will be called, snoozed serenely through it all The grandest and most spectacular of all Windsor Castles state apartments, it is lined with suits of shining armour, a homage to the patron saint of England and the Age of Chivalry. It is usually packed with tourists, when not hosting state banquets. Yesterday it was empty, save for a tiny media contingent, including one American as well as one British television camera in deference to the duchesss homeland. The couple appeared through the door from the Grand Reception Room, the duke carrying Archie and still sporting the same euphoric grin we saw hours after the birth. The duchess, in a white sleeveless summer dress, looked blissfully proud and still a little bowled over by it all. After posing for the cameras for a few moments, she offered us a few promising first insights. He has the sweetest temperament, hes really calm, she noted. I dont know who he gets that from, joked the duke, gently stroking Archie with his thumb. So who does the baby take after most? Were still trying to figure that out, the duchess replied. But then, as an elated Duchess of Sussex explained: Hes just been the dream. Appearing for the first time since giving birth on Monday morning, the duchess could hardly have been happier: Its magic, its pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world. The duke had evidently been giving the matter much thought: Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks; were basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really. But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows? Unlike some terrified first-time fathers, we were looking at a natural. A Palace insider later confirmed that the duke had already changed several nappies. So how did he find being a parent. Its great. Parenting is amazing, he said, with palpable enthusiasm. Its only been three days, but were just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy and be able to spend some precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up. The one problem with the bundle of joy, at this moment, was all the bundling. With a bonnet pulled down over his tiny head and all the swaddling keeping him snug and warm, there was very little of Archie visible. Royal aides had made it clear in advance that the couple would not be parading him before the cameras. We all know how carefully these two have guarded every detail of this pregnancy and birth. However, the world could reasonably expect to see more than a bonnet. Prince Harry held their son for the photographs, which were taken in St George's Hall in Windsor So Alan Jones, the unflappable royal correspondent of the Press Association, delicately asked if the baby might be turned just a little further towards the cameras. The duke obliged, even dropping in a dig at his own expense: Hes already got a little bit of facial hair as well wonderful! Harrys beard has been the butt of more than a few family jokes. Harry and Meghan followed in the footsteps of relatives including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in using a shawl from a family lace firm in Nottinghamshire for their sons first fashion foray. When he was introduced yesterday, Archie was swaddled in a white Leaves and Flowers shawl from GH Hurt and Son, costing 105, with a cashmere hat from a set that comes with mittens (64). The firm said the Duke of Cambridge was wrapped in a similar shawl in 1982, as were his children. Advertisement The couple were asked about taking Archie to meet the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. As it turned out, the new great-grandfather had already been treated to a sneak preview. We just bumped into the duke as we were walking by which was so nice, the duchess explained. So itll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my Mums with us as well. Another great grandchild, Harry sighed with mock weariness. Archie may indeed be the Queens eighth. However, she was clearly as thrilled as everyone else when the Sussexes appeared at her private apartments. Yesterday was the opening day of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, a firm favourite in the Queens calendar. Despite heavy rain, she had been down to the Home Park to watch the action but was back well in time to meet Archie now in his mothers arms and Doria. This was the sort of scene which historians will point to long into the future when they come to chronicle key landmarks in the story of the monarchy. Here we see the longest-reigning monarch in history and an African-American yoga teacher united by a handsome new addition to the same family. A smiling Meghan gives her newborn son a quick glance before facing media for the first time since she gave birth on Monday Other members of the family are now expected to form an orderly queue outside Frogmore Cottage, starting with the Cambridges and the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall Outside, I found the posse of royal-watchers, some of whom had been camped on these streets for days. They were glued to the television in the Esquires coffee shop. Oh, hes just lovely. He really is, said Michelle Lassiter, an accountant from Guildford, Surrey. She had taken several days off work to be in Windsor just to be part of it all with like-minded people. Dressed in his union jack suit, Terry Hutt, the 84-year-old doyen of the royal superfans, admitted he was disappointed not to be able to see the babys hair. All were unhappy not to have set eyes on the baby themselves, as they have done every time the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have brought a new-born out of St Marys, Paddington. However, as Caryll Foster, 59, from Surrey, pointed out: St Georges Hall looks a lot more royal than a pavement in Paddington. And the one upshot of yesterdays tightly controlled photo-opportunity is that the world has now seen a good deal more of Archie Mountbatten-Windsor than would have been the case on a hospital doorstep. Other members of the family are now expected to form an orderly queue outside Frogmore Cottage, starting with the Cambridges and the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall. Today, however, Prince Harry will leave his wife and child for an official visit to Holland. A modern parent he may be, but paternity leave does not trump royal engagements already in the diary. Clooney: Be kinder to Meghan. Family friend George calls on her critics to ease off By Vanessa Allen George Clooney intervened on behalf of the Duchess of Sussex, calling for kinder treatment of the new mother He has been tipped as a possible godfather for the newest member of the Royal Family. And yesterday George Clooney intervened on behalf of the Duchess of Sussex, calling for kinder treatment of the new mother. The Hollywood star said scrutiny of the former actress had gone into a really dark place and urged critics to ease off. Shes a young woman whos just had a baby, he added. Clooney, 58, said it was inevitable that interest in Harry and Meghan would intensify following the birth of their baby and acknowledged that media coverage was a fact of life for the Royal Family. He has previously claimed the duchess was pursued, vilified and chased during her pregnancy, comparing her treatment to that of Princess Diana. That intervention in February came after friends of the duchess spoke to a US magazine about her troubled relationship with her father Thomas Markle. Harrison? Hes named after me The choice of the babys second name caused particular excitement in one household yesterday. Harrison Degiorgio-Lewis has met Prince Harry twice at Westminster Abbeys Field of Remembrance, which honours our war dead. Harrison Degiorgio-Lewis (pictured) has met Prince Harry twice at Westminster Abbeys Field of Remembrance, which honours our war dead The schoolboy, eight, whose uncle Lieutenant Aaron Lewis, of 29 Commando Royal Artillery was killed in Afghanistan in December 2008, was convinced he had influenced the royal couples decision. I meet him [Prince Harry] quite a lot and we share the same birthday, said Harrison, of Rochford, Essex. His father Brett was less sure, however. Obviously its lovely of them if they did name their boy after Harrison but, no, I have not heard anything, he said. Harry and Harrison share a September 15 birthday. They met in 2016 and the next year. Advertisement Clooney was asked about media interest in Meghan during an appearance at the Los Angeles premiere yesterday of his TV adaptation of Catch-22. I think itll intensify it, of course, he said. But its never about the media following you around because if youre a royal, thats part of what you have to do. Its the other versions of it: going to interview peoples parents, that kind of stuff, that it starts to step into a really dark place. It just, sort of, the Press turned on them and I think people should be a little kinder. Shes ... just had a baby. The star, who has laughed off suggestions he could become a royal godfather, shares a birthday with Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. He joked: I was a little irritated because that kid really is stealing my thunder. Clooney and wife Amal were guests at Harry and Meghans wedding and hosted them for four days at their Italian retreat on Lake Como. The pair have twins, Ella and Alexander, who are almost two, and live near the Sussexes at Sonning-on-Thames. One of Meghans close friends US CBS news anchor Gayle King arrived in Britain yesterday to see the new arrival. The couple had insisted on CBS being at the unveiling of Archie yesterday. Miss Kings royal special is due to be broadcast in the US to coincide with the couples first wedding anniversary on May 19. Meanwhile, Buckingham Palaces attempts to note the birth on its official website were marred by a howler. Archie was referred to as the child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who are his uncle William and aunt Kate. The page was corrected but only after it had gone live and drawn much mockery. Long to rain over one! Either one of her horses was not doing too well, or yesterdays rain came as a surprise, but the Queen wasnt going to be distracted by the arrival of another grandchild as she enjoyed the first day of the Windsor Horse Trials. The Queen wasnt going to be distracted by the arrival of another grandchild as she enjoyed the first day of the Windsor Horse Trials Grans 18,000 from Archie bet One punter won more than 18,000 after she guessed the newest member of the Royal Family would be called Archie. Oops! Palace in a muddle Off message: Buckingham Palaces website briefly carried this story yesterday, giving the couple the title Cambridge instead of Sussex Advertisement The woman staked 120 on the 150/1 bet after Baby Sussex was born on her grandson Archies birthday. More than 1.1million was wagered on names but Archie was a huge outsider compared with Alexander, Spencer, Arthur and James. The unnamed woman, who scooped 18,120, said: I thought Id go for a cheeky bet as perhaps my Archie would bring some luck. Cousin George: I bagged name first Harry and Meghans choice of name could cause confusion for the babys young cousin Prince George. The five-year-old told a dog walker Im called Archie, prompting speculation that Archie could be a family nickname for the third-in-line to the throne. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridges son was out with his grandmother Carole Middleton in Berkshire this year when he chatted to a passing dog walker. The walker said: I asked George what his name was. He said Im called Archie with a big smile on his face. Two students accused of killing one person and wounding eight others after opening fire at a Colorado high school appeared in court Wednesday. Devon Erickson, 18, covered his face with his streaked purple hair and was wearing nail polish when he made his brief court appearance on Wednesday dressed in a red prison jumpsuit and handcuffs. Erickson was earlier charged as an adult with first-degree murder and attempted murder over the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver on Tuesday afternoon. No plea was entered and he was ordered to return to court on Friday. Alec McKinney, 16, the teen's accused accomplice, appeared in court later on Wednesday because he is being charged separately as a juvenile. Police described McKinney as a female named Maya but classmates said he identified as male and preferred to be called Alec. Alec McKinney, 16, appeared in court Wednesday, charged over the Denver school shooting. Police identified him as a girl called Maya, but students said he identifies as a boy called Alec Alec, 16, is being charged separately as a juvenile. When he appeared in court his lawyers asked that the 'he' pronoun be used to describe him When the teen appeared in court, lawyers requested that the pronoun 'he' be used. McKinney waved a formal reading of the charges and was ordered held without bond, CBS Denver reported. The pair were both taken into custody immediately after they stormed two classrooms and opened fire with handguns that were concealed in a guitar case. Kendrick Castillo, an 18-year-old senior who was just three days away from graduating, was shot dead when he tried to lunge at one of the shooters. Eight students suffered gunshot wounds in the shooting and three of them remain in intensive care in hospital. Five had been discharged from the hospital by Wednesday morning. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, which occurred just miles from the scene of the deadly 1999 Columbine High School massacre. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office said they had initially believed the young shooter, McKinney, was a male based on appearances and were not able to confirm a gender until an interview had taken place. The younger student is reportedly in the process of transitioning from female to male but Sheriff Tony Spurlock would not confirm if the young suspect was transgender. 'Right now we are identifying the individual as a female, because that's where we're at,' he said. 'We originally thought the juvenile was a male by appearance.' Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the student that was killed was just three days away from graduating. Devon Erickson, 18, covered his face with his streaked purple hair and was wearing nail polish when he made his brief court appearance on Wednesday dressed in a red prison jumpsuit and handcuffs Erickson was earlier charged as an adult with first-degree murder and attempted murder over the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver on Tuesday afternoon Classmates said Castillo was among a group of three students who tried to take down one of the shooters by tackling them when they stormed the classroom. The father of one of those heroic students, Brendan Bialy, told the New York Times that the trio tackled the shooters when they entered the classroom 'and one pulled a gun out of a guitar case'. He said 'his son and two friends tried to tackle the gunman but one of the boys was shot in the chest'. 'We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school,' Sheriff Spurlock said. The two suspects opened fire in two separate classrooms in the high school section of the campus, which serves grades kindergarten through 12th. Kendrick Castillo, 18, died on Tuesday afternoon when two students stormed STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver and opened fire with at least two handguns Authorities said they went into the school through an entrance without metal detectors. They were arrested within minutes after administrators reported the gunfire, according to Sheriff Spurlock. Spurlock said officers engaged the suspects and there was a struggle to bring them down but neither suspect was injured in the confrontation. Authorities recovered three handguns and a rifle but said the latter was not used in the shooting. The two students were not old enough to buy or own the handguns. Authorities were seen outside a home in Highland Springs believed to be owned by Erickson's parents, James and Stephanie. The mother's Facebook page was deleted shortly after news broke of the shooting. A car spray painted with the words 'f*** society' was towed away from the house at around 10pm. A criminal background check revealed Erickson's almost unblemished record, which noted a ticket for careless driving issued in Douglas County on February 13, 2018. His mother broke down in tears on Wednesday and said she didn't know why her son opened fire on classmates, the New York Post reports. The teen's social media pages indicate that he is an avid guitar player, youth theater actor and registered Democrat who has on occasion expressed disdain for Christians, criticized President Donald Trump and praised former President Barack Obama. Devon Erickson, 18, has been identified as one of the two suspects who allegedly opened fire on STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado on Tuesday afternoon Terrified students were evacuated from the school after shots were fired at 1.53pm Fernando Montoya (above with his daughter) said that his 17-year-old son was shot three times but was expected to make a full recovery Authorities were seen outside a home in Highland Springs believed to be owned by Erickson's parents, James and Stephanie, on Tuesday night Car towed from #stemshooting suspect's home apparently has "F*** SOCIETY" spray painted on the side. Also "666" and a what looks like a pentagram sprayed on the hood. pic.twitter.com/e6QX3lq4v3 John Fenton (@higuysimjohn) May 8, 2019 Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said Devon Erickson, 18, and a younger student walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire with two handguns on students in two classrooms In a post from 2014, Erickson wrote: 'You know what I hate? All these Christians who hate gays, yet in the bible, it says in Deuteronomy 17:12-13, if someone doesn't do what their priest tells them to do, they are supposed to die. It has plenty of crazy stuff like that. But all they get out of it is 'ewwwwww gays'.' In 2015 he shared a Facebook post by Occupy Democrats praising Obama, and in 2016 shared a video of TV host Seth Meyers criticizing Trump. Erickson also has a YouTube channel where he posted videos of himself playing the guitar. His Snapchat account is reportedly under the name 'devonkills'. In one Instagram post obtained by Heavy.com, Erickson wrote: 'I'm covered in ink and addicted to pain.' In another from 2018 he said: 'I'm only posting one of my senior pictures so people don't think I dropped out since I don't take classes at stem anymore.' A combination of factors, including revenge and anger, spurred the attack, the Denver TV ABC affiliate reported, citing law enforcement sources. One of the suspects had reportedly been bullied over gender identity. Erickson was charged on Wednesday as an adult with murder and attempted murder The teen's social media pages indicate that he is an avid guitar player and a youth theater actor. Erickson also has a YouTube channel where he posted videos of himself playing the guitar The harrowing texts a teen sent his father as two shooters stormed his Denver high school The father of one of the Denver high school students forced to hide in his classroom when two shooters opened fire has shared the harrowing text messages he received from his teenage son as the gunfire rang out. Eldon Elledge's teenage son immediately texted his father when the alarms sounded and they were placed on lockdown at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Denver on Tuesday afternoon. His terrified son's messages became increasingly frantic as he told his father he could hear gunshots, was hiding in a classroom that had four separate entrances and that he loved him 'just in case'. Elledge shared the messages on Facebook on Wednesday and described it as 'the scariest moment of my life'. 'Dad the school is on an unexpected lockdown. They've got sirens playing all in the school and the radios are going crazy,' his son said in his first message. 'I'm in the P.E. room with four different entrances. Everyone is freaking out. It's not a drill I'm actually scared. My heart is racing. I'm actually freaking out, I'm really scared.' Elledge replied to his son and pleaded with him to remain calm and 'remember your training' for an active shooter situation. 'Dad the announcements are going crazy. The speakers are telling everyone to get out of sight. The teacher thinks somebody is in the school,' his son wrote. Elledge told his son he was on his way to the school, adding: 'But remain calm, breath slowly and pay attention. Listen to all sounds. Breath short quite breathes and listen to anything off.' His son's messages became increasingly more terrified as the teenager described what was unfolding inside. 'Okay. There is a bunch of yelling in the hallway,' he wrote. 'There is gunshots. Dad. Gunshots. Oh my god. The school is flooded with police. Gunshots. 'Dad there is no where to hide, it's an open room. 'All I hear is yelling and screaming. I can't call the teacher won't let me. What do I do dad I'm freaking out. The screaming has stopped. 'Dad I love you, just in case.' Elledge told his son he loved him as well before adding that a lot of children were coming out of the school and repeatedly asking where he was. 'Somebody is dead. Somebody died,' his son wrote replied. Advertisement Fernando Montoya told television station KMGH that his 17-year-old son was shot three times but was expected to make a full recovery. 'Thank God he is fine,' Montoya said. 'Even though he got shot, he's OK. He's going to walk out on his feet, so I'm glad. We're so lucky.' As gunfire echoed through the school, students hid or ran through the halls. Students ran through the halls shouting 'School shooter!' and some wondered at first if it was a joke or a drill. A teacher embraces young students in a parking lot near the STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado on Tuesday after a shooter opened fire Parents embrace their children as they are reunited at a recreation center near the school Students and teachers hold their hands in the air as they exit the scene of the shooting A massive police presence descended on the school minutes after shots were fired at 1.53pm Parents pick up their children from the Recreation Center at Northridge in Highlands Ranch after the shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday U.S. SCHOOL SHOOTINGS IN 2019 There have been 11 school shooting so far in 2019, resulting in a total of six deaths and 19 injuries. January 7 - Belmont, California Seventeen-year-old high school student Mohammad Othman was shot dead outside Central Elementary School in what police said was not a random crime. Read more here. January 25 - Mobile, Alabama Two men, 17 and 20, got into an altercation outside W.P. Davidson High School that led to an exchange of gunfire, leaving both injured. Officials said at least one of the men was not a student at the school. Read more here. January 31 - Humble, Texas A 16-year-old student was shot and injured at Atascocita High School while trying to buy marijuana from a 17-year-old student identified as Mikael Neciocup. The suspected shooter was arrested after he posted about the incident on Snapchat. Read more here. February 7 - Baltimore Maryland An unnamed 25-year-old armed intruder entered Frederick Douglass High School and got in an argument with hall monitor Michael Marks before shooting the 56-year-old in the torso. Marks was taken to a hospital in serious but stable condition. Read more here. February 12 - Kansas City, Missouri A 15-year-old girl was shot dead outside Central Academy of Excellence after getting in a fight with two shooting suspects, 21 and 18, during a basketball game. Read more here. February 26 - Montgomery, Alabama A 17-year-old student at Robert E Lee High School was shot and injured inside the school gym. The suspect, who has not been named by police, is a minor and likely a fellow student. Read more here. April 1 - Prescott, Arkansas A 14-year-old student was shot by another student, also 14, in the hallway of Prescott High School in what officials say was a premeditated attack. The victim was airlifted to the hospital in stable condition. Read more here. April 30 - Charlotte, North Carolina Suspect Trystan Terrell, a 22-year-old dropout, opened fire on a classroom at University of North Carolina Charlotte, killing 21-year-old Riley Howell and 19-year-old Ellis Parlier. Four students were injured: Drew Pescaro, 19, Sean Dehart, 20, Rami Alramatin, 20, and Emily Houpt, 23. Read more here. May 4 - Eugene, Oregon A 21-year-old man died from a bullet wound after being shot outside a fraternity house at the University of Oregon. Read more here. May 7 - Savannah, Georgia A Savannah State University student was shot and injured on campus by a suspect identified as De'Ante Lamont Scott. The victim's name and condition are unknown. Read more here. May 7 - Highlands Ranch, Colorado Suspects Devon Erickson, 18, and Alec McKinney allegedly stormed into STEM School Highlands Ranch and opened fire, killing 18-year-old Kendrick Castillo and wounding eight others. Read more here. This list is up to date as of May 8 Advertisement 'No one really knew what was going on so I didn't know they were bullets,' said seventh-grader Sophia Marks. 'I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs.' Student Nui Giasolli told the Today show she was in her British Literature class when Erickson came in late. 'He walked to the other side of the classroom where we also had another door and he opened the door. He walked back as if he was going to go back to his seat, then he walked back to the door and he closed it. The next thing I know he's pulling a gun and he's telling nobody to move,' she said. Giasolli said another student lunged at the shooter, giving the other students time to dive under the desks and flee to safety. 'To be some of the kids that were brave enough to bring him down so that all of us could escape and all of us could be reunited with our families. They were very heroic. I can't thank them enough.' Chris Elledge, 15, said his teacher told the class to hide behind weight equipment in the room, where they stayed until police arrived. 'They busted in the room, and they were asking if there was any suspects in the room, if we were OK, and they escorted us out to go out to the front of the building,' Elledge said. Josh Dutton, 18, told The Associated Press that he was close friends with Devon Erickson in middle school but hadn't seen him for four years as he went to a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Erickson wore all black, a hat and sunglasses, was significantly skinnier and didn't seem interested in talking. 'He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles,' Dutton said. Hundreds of people took to Twitter after news of the shooting broke to express their horror that yet another American school had been targeted. The shooting is the 43rd incident of gunfire reported on a school campus so far in 2019 and the 116th mass shooting overall this year. The STEM campus is located just seven miles from Columbine High School, where 13 people were killed and more than 20 were injured on April 20, 1999 - just over 20 years ago. One student at a nearby high school tweeted: 'Being a student in Colorado is terrifying. Threats, secure permitters, lockdowns, missing school because of credible threats, and now another school shooting. 'I'm tired. What is the government doing to help us? My death is inevitable. Please talk about this.' Another user tweeted: '20 years later, 7 miles from Columbine, and 0 actions taken in Washington to protect kids from gun violence.' The White House issued the following statement about the shooting: 'Our prayers are with the victims, family members, and all those affected by today's shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Littleton, Colorado. 'Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence. 'The White House has been in communication with state and local officials, and the President has been briefed and continues to monitor the ongoing situation. 'We offer our full support to local law enforcement and first responders and thank them for their heroism.' Former Army Captain Johnny Mercer has told the Prime Minister he is withdrawing his support after new details emerged of the way her Deputy Chief Whip tried to dig dirt on him A leading Conservative MP is going on strike against Theresa May in a twin protest over Tory dirty tricks and plans to prosecute soldiers for historic crimes in Northern Ireland. Former Army Captain Johnny Mercer has told the Prime Minister he is withdrawing his support after new details emerged of the way her Deputy Chief Whip tried to dig dirt on him. Mr Mercer said he no longer shared the values or ethos of the Tory Party under Mrs Mays leadership. The Daily Mail has been told that Tory Deputy Chief Whip Chris Pincher asked a serving senior Army officer for dirt on Mr Mercer after a drink in Mr Pinchers office followed by three or four pints when Mr Pincher invited him and a friend to Westminsters Red Lion pub in February. The Army officer, who has spoken to this paper on condition of anonymity, says he was shocked when Mr Pincher asked him: What dirt do you have on Mercer? I want to know everything. Mr Mercer said he no longer shared the values or ethos of the Tory Party under Mrs Mays leadership He told Mr Pincher he had no such information and had a high opinion of Mr Mercer. The officer told the Mail: I was very disappointed that Chris would ask me such a question. Soon afterwards the officer, who first met Mr Pincher around 20 years ago, felt unwell and left the pub. It is not the first time Mr Pincher has been hit by controversy. Eighteen months ago it was revealed that Alex Story, a Tory activist who rowed in the 1996 Olympics, alleged that Mr Pincher, 49, made an unwanted pass at him following drinks in a Westminster pub in 2001. Mr Story, then 26, said he felt woozy after Mr Pincher took him to his apartment, poured him a whisky, untucked his shirt, massaged his neck and whispered: Youll go far in the Conservative Party. Mr Pincher left the room and returned in a bathrobe like a pound-shop Harvey Weinstein..., said Mr Story, who then left. Mr Mercer, 38, has been tipped as a possible future Tory leader but his prospects were hit by claims concerning his 85,000-a-year second job with a firm linked to a fraud scandal. The Plymouth Moor View MP insists he is the victim of a smear campaign. He also angered Conservative Whips by calling Mrs Mays government a s**t show last year. Mr Mercer says he received an apology from Tory Chief Whip Julian Smith for Mr Pinchers conduct. In his letter to Mrs May last night, he lambasted the offensive investigation of former British soldiers for alleged crimes in Ulster In his letter to Mrs May last night, he lambasted the offensive investigation of former British soldiers for alleged crimes in Ulster. At least three prosecutions are under way, including against a former Parachute Regiment soldier due to face murder charges over his role in Belfasts Bloody Sunday riot in 1972. Mr Mercer wrote: I cannot continue to support you while this injustice (prosecuting veterans) continues unabated and the behaviour of your Whips has ground out of me any residual co-operation. He no longer shared the values or ethos of todays Tory Party and will not vote for any Government legislation outside Brexit until laws are brought forward to protect veterans prosecuted for historic allegations. The claims over Mr Pincher and Mr Story surfaced in 2017 when a number of MPs were accused of harassment. Mr Pinchers name appeared on a sex dossier of lurid claims compiled by Tory aides. When challenged, Mr Pincher, then a junior Whip, said he did not recognise either the events or the interpretation placed on them. He was cleared of misconduct and became Deputy Chief Whip two months later. Yesterday he told the Mail he enjoyed a drink and friendly pub talk and banter with the Army officer adding: Any suggestion of anything more sinister is far-fetched. Mr Mercer has faced calls to quit his second job advising The Crucial Group on retraining Army veterans. The firm has links to London Capital & Finance, which went bust owing 237million to savers. Donald Trump Jr. is the subject of a subpoena from the Senate Intelligence Committee, a panel led by Republicans, in an unexpected escalation of tensions between Congress and the first family. A source with knowledge of the situation confirmed to DailyMail.com on Wednesday afternoon that the subpoena was received 'a few weeks ago.' The source wouldn't provide other details. The Axios news website first reported the committee's demand, and suggested it's related to the ill-fated Trump Tower Moscow, a 2015-2016 real estate venture helmed by President Donald Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen. The Washington Post quoted a person familiar with the subpoena saying it 'exasperated' Don Jr. Cohen reported to federal prison on Monday to serve a three-year sentence for fraud, and for lying to Congress in November about how long into the 2016 presidential campaign the project survived as a going concern. Don Jr. testified about the proposed skyscraper in a closed 2017 Senate Judiciary Committee session. A transcript released later shows that he claimed to have been only 'peripherally aware of it' and knew 'very little' about its progress. The Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr. in connection with its Russia investigation, a probe that has run parallel to Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Sen. Richard Burr, a North Carolina Republican, signed off on the subpoena, injecting a new source of tension into the relationship between Congress and the White House A committee spokesman told Axios that committee leaders have 'reserved the right to recall witnesses for additional testimony as needed, as every witness and tness counsel has been made aware.' Republican chairman Richard Burr and ranking Democrat Mark Warner of Virginia are known as bipartisan operators. They have run their own Russia-related investigation in parallel with Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe. Burr's move is being viewed in Washington as a contrast to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's call for all of Washington to stand down and treat Trump-Russia scandals as things of the past. A second source, one close to Don Jr., told DailyMail.com shortly after the news broke: 'Don is a private citizen, who has already been cleared by Mueller after a two year investigation. He has done 8-9 hours of testimony in front of Senate Intel already and 27 hours of testimony in front of various committees in total.' 'When he originally agreed to testify in front of the Senate Intel Committee in 2017, there was an agreement between Don and the Committee that he would only have to come in and testify a single time as long as he was willing to stay for as long as theyd like, which Don did,' the insider added. 'Don continues to cooperate by producing documents and is willing to answer written questions, but no lawyer would ever agree to allow their client to participate in what is an obvious PR stunt from a so-called Republican Senator too cowardly to stand up to his boss Mark Warner and the rest of the resistance Democrats on the committee.' Axios speculated that the subpoena is an indication that Don Jr. 'declined a request to appear' for more testimony. Cohen told the House Oversight Committee in February that he briefed the president's eldest son and Ivanka Trump at least 10 times about Trump Tower Moscow. An architect's drawing of Trump Tower Moscow first published by Buzzfeed showed a glass obelisk 100 stories high and was branded with Donald Trump's logo The proposed Trump Tower Moscow would have been the tallest building in Europe He told the Senate panel in November that the project had been discarded by the time the future president was competing in the 2016 Iowa Caucuses, saying later that he lied to be consistent with Trump's 'political messaging.' In reality, conversations continued about the tower concept through the fall of 2016, when Donald Trump Sr. was already the GOP presidential nominee. In a January Fox News interview, Don Jr. said the concept and its partial execution were all Cohen's doing, painting the disgraced lawyer as a self-promoter who wanted to deliver a finished product that he could take credit for. 'We don't know anything about it. Ultimately, it was Michael Cohen essentially trying to get a deal done,' he said then. Don Jr.'s inner circle has spent the first half of the week fending off requests from Republican Donors and former White House official Steve Bannon for him to run for U.S. Senate in Wyoming. Sen. Mike Enzi will retire at the end of 2020. The president's son has no interest in running, his advisers said. Ivanka Trump (2nd left), Eric Trump (2nd right) and Donald Trump Jr. (right) are pictured in an undate dphoto during a trip to Moscow The plans for Trump Tower Moscow included an architect's drawing of a glass obelisk 100 stories high that would have been the tallest building in Europe and branded multiple times with Donald Trump's logo. The drawing shows a fuller version of the project than Trump's team indicated. Rudy Giuliani, the president's personal attorney, claimed in January that the project hadn't gone beyond a letter of intent and 'no plans were ever made.' But architectural plans and business documents obtained by Buzzfeed showed an architect's drawing of a gleaming glass tower along side the Moscow River topped by a diamondlike shape emblazoned on multiple sides with the Trump logo. The plans were attached to the developer's proposal and did not come from the Trump Organization, a source told DailyMail.com in January. 'The building design you sent over is very interesting,' Russian real estate developer Andrey Rozov wrote to then-Trump attorney Michael Cohen in September 2015, according to Buzzfeed, 'and will be an architectural and luxury triumph. I believe the tallest building in Europe should be in Moscow, and I am prepared to build it.' Cohen was spearheading the project for the Trump Organization. He was in contact with Russian businessman interested in working on the project, which was looking to bring in profits of $300 million or more. A final letter of intent signed by Trump on Oct. 28, 2015, noted Trump Tower Moscow would have 'approximately 250 first class, luxury residential condominiums,' 15 floors of 150 hotel rooms, a luxury spa by Ivanka Trump and fitness center, and a commercial area for businesses to rent. A letter of intent in commercial real estate does not represent a commitment to erect a building. Developers commonly seek them from prospective building managers in order to secure financing for projects. Trump Tower Moscow never came to fruition, but it was one focal point in the Mueller probe of Russia's role in the 2016 election. Giuliani told NBC's 'Meet the Press' that it 'had petered out quite a bit. They sent a letter of intent in. They didn't even know where to send it, they knew so little about it. They finally got it straightened out and then they abandoned the project.' And he told The New Yorker on Monday: 'No plans were ever made. There were no drafts. Nothing in the file.' The plans, Buzzfeed reported, included detailed financial arrangements: the Trump Organization would get a $4 million up-front payment. It would also receive a cut of all the condo sales and a cut for the commercial and office spaces along with 3 percent of sales on food and beverages, spa and fitness center use, and conference fees. The plan was to build Trump Tower Moscow along the Moscow River In November, Buzzfeed reported the Trump Organization at one time planned to give Russian President Vladimir Putin a penthouse worth $50 million in the never-built tower. Felix Sater, a real estate developer and former mobster turned FBI informant who advised the Trump Organization on the deal, said the idea was a marketing ploy. 'In Russia, the oligarchs would bend over backwards to live in the same building as Vladimir Putin,' Sater told Buzzfeed. 'My idea was to give a $50 million penthouse to Putin and charge $250 million more for the rest of the units. All the oligarchs would line up to live in the same building as Putin.' Trump insisted repeatedly throughout the presidential campaign that he had no business dealings in Russia. Separately, House Democrats are eyeing Ivanka Trump as a potential witness in their expanded Russia probe and may could demand testimony from the president's daughter. Unlike Don Jr., she is a White House official making it more likely the president would try to intervene. House Democrats could call Ivanka Trump to testify about her involvement in a Trump Moscow tower project that extended well into 2016, as prosecutors revealed Ivanka told ABC News this year that she knew 'literally almost nothing' about the Moscow project, following a report that she and Don Jr. were involved as far back as 2013. Ivanka, Donald Jr. and Eric Trump visited Moscow in 2015 and reportedly scoped out potential building locations. Leaked emails obtained by Buzzfeed revealed Sater touting his own sway in helping Ivanka during her Moscow visit. In a Nov. 3, 2015 email, Sater wrote to Cohen: 'I arranged for Ivanka to sit in Putin[']s private chair at his desk and office in the Kremlin[.] I will get Putin on this program and we will get Donald elected.' A man who broke into a school attended by a 12-year-old Japanese Prince and left knives on his desk admitted he 'intended to stab him', according to sources. Media reports said Kaoru Hasegawa, 56, gained access to Ochanomizu University Junior High School in Tokyo on April 26, by posing as a maintenance worker. The prince, who is second in line to the Japanese throne, and his classmates were not in the classroom at the time of the incident. According to JapanToday police have not linked Hasegawa with any group. Hasegawa admitted to leaving the weapons and criticised Japan's imperial system when he was arrested on April 29. Kaoru Hasegawa who broke into the school attended by a 12-year-old Japenese Prince, and left knives on his desk admitted he 'intended to stab him', according to sources. He is pictured, right, in a police car after being arrested Security camera footage showed a man with a helmet trespassing on the school grounds at around noon. Police had been searching for the middle-aged man who was dressed as a construction worker. An aluminium bar, which had two fruit knives with pink blades attached by duct tape, was found on the prince's desk and the one next to it. CCTV captured a man believed to be Hasegawa, walking past the main gate of the university on the morning of the incident and less than an hour later. The Prince began attending the school this month and will be a pupil for the next three years. The prince (pictured), who is second in line to the Japanese throne, and his classmates were not in the classroom at the time of the incident He is is the grandson of Japan's former emperor Akihito who abdicated his throne on April 30 and was replaced by his 59-year-old son Crown Prince Naruhito. Following the shocking incident the Japenese education ministry has instructed education boards to enhance security measures at schools. It advised them to set up multiple check points at school gates and entrances to look out for suspicious individuals. A Chicago police officer has been arrested for inappropriately touching three women, one of whom alleged that he hugged her against her will and grabbed her buttocks after pulling her over during a traffic stop. Officer Corey Deanes, 47, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with three felony counts of official misconduct and one felony count of aggravated battery in a public place. Deanes has also been charged with two misdemeanor counts of battery. The charges stem from Deanes alleged behavior during three separate incidents with three different women between August 2017 and July 2018, according to authorities. On August 28, 2017, Deanes pulled over a 23-year-old woman for making an illegal turn on the 2500 block of North Clark Street, court papers obtained by the Chicago Sun-Times say. During the traffic stop, Deanes allegedly made comments on the womans physique. He is also alleged to have asked for her phone number. Prosecutors say Deanes threatened to give the woman a ticket if she didnt write her number. Officer Corey Deanes, 47, faces felony charges after he was accused by three different women of inappropriately touching them while on duty After the woman wrote down her phone number on the officers note pad, Deanes is alleged to have hugged her against her will and touched her buttocks. The woman returned to her home in Oak Park and dialed 911. When officers arrived at her home and knocked on her door, she was too afraid to open it, according to prosecutors. The next day, the woman and her father went to a local police station to report the incident. At the police station, officers told the woman that Deanes did not run a name check on her license and registration during the traffic stop. The second incident took place in the early morning hours of July 1, 2018. According to court papers, Deanes responded to a 911 call at around 3:00am from a 29-year-old woman who told police that a homeless person was sitting on her doorstep. The woman had left the area near her home to call authorities. When she returned home, she allegedly found Deanes outside. The homeless person had left. According to prosecutors, Deanes expressed interest in the womans outfit. The officer than began taking hold of her wrist and extending her arm so that the outer layer she was wearing exposed her wrist, shorts, and tank top underneath, it has been alleged. Deanes then began to quiz the woman as to why she had been out so late, according to prosecutors. The woman told Deanes she was working. After she mentioned having rent money, Deanes allegedly began searching [the womans] person for her rent money, putting his finger in the front right pocket of her shorts and pulling it open. She then tried to end the encounter by telling him good night. After she buzzed herself into the apartment, Deanes asked her which unit she lived in, prosecutors allege. The woman then gave Deanes a fake address because she feared for her safety. Three days later, she reported the incident to the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. The third incident took place just after midnight on July 13. A 22-year-old woman was walking home alone near Clark Street and Fullerton Avenue. As she approached the door to her home, a police car drove up behind her. Deanes, who was allegedly behind the wheel, called to her, referring to her as a pretty little thing. Prosecutors say Deanes threatened to give a woman a traffic ticket if she didnt write her phone number. The woman also alleged that Deanes hugged her against her will and touched her buttocks. The above file photo shows a Chicago Police Department uniform Deanes then invited her to go on a date with him, according to court papers. The officer got out of the squad car and hugged the woman, it has been alleged. She gave Deanes her phone number, but then backed away from him. Deanes is then said to have asked her if she was scared. Court papers said she laughed and stated she was going inside the building. When she went inside, she received a phone call from an unknown number, but she didnt answer it. She then reported the incident to a local police station. Deanes, a resident of Irving Park, was ordered held on $200,000 bail. He appeared at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse on Wednesday. His next court date has been set for May 15. The head of the Chicago Police Department said that the allegations against Deanes are egregious. The allegations against Corey Deanes are egregious and if proven, they are an insult to everyone of us that dedicates our lives to public service, Superintendent Eddie Johnson said in a statement. This investigation was conducted with the full cooperation from victims by CPDs Bureau of Internal Affairs and is a testament to our ability to police ourselves. There is no place in this department for illegal activity and I wont stand for it. Deanes joined the force in 2005. Last July, he was placed on desk duty as a result of the investigation, according to authorities. Now that he is facing felony charges, he will be suspended without pay. House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said the country is in a 'constitutional crisis' after Democrats voted to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt and President Donald Trump exerted executive privilege over the full, unredacted version of the special counsel Robert Mueller's report. 'We are now in a constitutional crisis,' Nadler said Wednesday after the House Judiciary Committee voted 24-16 along partisan lines to hold Barr in contempt of Congress. The final vote still needs to take place on the House floor but the move sets up a court battle between the executive and legislative branches of government. House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said the country is in a 'constitutional crisis' after Democrats voted to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt The vote against Barr came after President Donald Trump exerted executive privilege over the full, unredacted version of the special counsel Robert Mueller's report Six congressional committees in the House have launched investigations into the Trump administration, citing congressional oversight authority. President Trump has been resisting - fighting a subpoena for his business records, refusing to hand over his tax returns, claiming executive privilege over the full Mueller report and ordering his former White House counsel Don McGahn not to testify before Nadler's committee. But his use of his executive privilege on Wednesday was the first time he's waged that weapon in his war against Congress. 'This was a very grave and momentous step we were forced to take today to move a contempt citation against the attorney general of the United States. We did not relish doing this but we have no choice,' Nadler said. 'The House will have to vote that contempt citation to begin the court battle. There can be no higher stakes than this attempt to take all power away from Congress and away from the American people,' he added. He did not have a date the full House will vote but merely said it would happen 'soon.' The New York Democrat also compared Trump to Richard Nixon, who resigned to avoid impeachment. Nixon also tried to claim executive privilege to keep Congress from getting the tapes he made of conversations in the Oval Office but the Supreme Court ordered him to hand them over. 'The White House makes an nonsensical claim in the Department of Justice for these various documents they say are executive privilege. Most are not executive privilege. It's not a blanket bar,' Nadler said. 'In the Nixon case the tapes, you will remember or have read about the tapes. These were the most sensitive through executive privilege. They were private conversations between the president and his advisers and the Supreme Court ruled 8-0 that the interests of the public in justice and accountability outweighed the interests of the president in privacy and ordered those tapes revealed. It led to Nixon's resignation. Number one. Number two - executive privilege is designed to get candor by the president's advisers to advise him,' Nadler added. 'Once that has gone public, once the president has said it's okay to share those conversations or evidence with the Mueller investigation, with your private attorney, with whoever, there is no more privilege. It's done already. Everything we have requested, the unredacted parts, all the material in the redacted parts of the Mueller report, none of it is privileged because all of it they waived to Mueller or to whoever,' he argued. The House Judiciary Committee voted 24-16 along partisan lines to hold Attorney General Bill Barr in contempt of Congress White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said President Trump had no choice but to use executive privilege The White House argued Democrats forced them to use executive privilege. 'Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney General's request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege,' White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said in a statement. 'The Attorney General has been transparent and accommodating throughout this process, including by releasing the no-collusion, no-conspiracy, no-obstruction Mueller Report to the public and offering to testify before the Committee. These attempts to work with the Committee have been flatly rejected. They didn't like the results of the report, and now they want a redo,' she added. The Justice Department slammed the vote, saying Congress could not force them to break the law. 'The attorney general could not comply with the House Judiciary Committee's subpoena without violating the law, court rules, and court orders, and without threatening the independence of the Department's prosecutorial functions,' said Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec in a statement. 'It is deeply disappointing that elected representatives of the American people have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics. Regrettably, Chairman Nadler's actions have prematurely terminated the accommodation process and forced the president to assert executive privilege to preserve the status quo. No one, including Chairman Nadler and his committee, will force the Department of Justice to break the law.' The Justice Department had tried to pre-empt a contempt vote by offering Democrats a less-redacted version of the report, which they refused. Democrats argue they do not want Barr to break the law and release grand jury information, merely to join their effort to ask the courts to unseal material for the grand jury for committee use. The Justice Department is arguing that under Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure they are not allowed to release the grand jury information. Mueller used grand juries to get subpoenas and search warrants in addition to the indictments he handed down. But Democrats point out Congress has managed twice to obtain federal grand jury information in prior special counsel investigations - Watergate and Ken Starr's probe. Barr offered to let a select group of Democrats view the entire report except for the grand jury information - but Democratic lawmakers denied his offer, saying they wanted to see it all. Sanders slammed Democrats for not taking Barr up on his offer. 'I think it's so absurd this idea that Congress doesn't get to see the Mueller report. In fact, there's a less redacted version of the Mueller report sitting there waiting on them to come and look at it,' she told reporters at the White House on Wednesday. 'Not a single Democrat has even taken the time to go and look at it. They're asking for information they know they can't have. The attorney general is actually upholding the law,' she added. 'The attorney general is protecting information, grand jury information, confidential information, that he cannot release. But the fact that the chairman knows that and he continues to ignore it, is absolutely absurd,' she noted. GOP Rep. Jim Jordan, one of Trump's biggest defenders on Capitol Hill, said Democrats were trying to destroy Barr's reputation House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler said he fight was about Congress' oversight power During Wednesday's six-and-a-half-hour hearing, Republicans slammed Democrats for holding a political dog-and-pony show. GOP Rep. Jim Jordan, one of Trump's biggest defenders on Capitol Hill, said Democrats were trying to destroy Barr's reputation because of concerns about what the attorney general would find in his investigation of whether or not the FBI spied on Trump's campaign during the 2016 election. 'Bill Barr is following the law and what's his reward? Democrats hold him in contempt,' Jordan said. 'I don't think today's actually about getting information. I don't think it's about getting the un-redacted Mueller report.' 'I think it's all about trying to destroy Bill Barr because Democrats are nervous he's going to get to the bottom of everything. He's going to find out how and why this investigation started in the first place,' he added. But Nadler said during the hearing the fight was not about Mueller's report but Congress' oversight power. 'Our fight is not just about the Mueller report. Our fight is about defending the rights of Congress as an independent branch to hold the president, any president accountable,' he noted. The stepson of a Missouri Ku Klux Klan leader who was murdered by his wife has been found guilty of helping his mother cover up the crime. Paul Jinkerson Jr was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter, abandonment of a corpse, armed criminal action, and tampering with physical evidence. Jinkerson was originally charged with first-degree murder in the death of Frank Ancona Jr, but the St Francois County jury selected the lesser offense of involuntary manslaughter. Paul Jinkerson Jr was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the 2017 death of his stepfather Frank Ancona Jr. Jinkerson's mother confessed to killing Ancona last month Jinkerson was also found guilty of abandonment of a corpse, armed criminal action, and tampering with physical evidence. Frank was an imperial wizard of the Traditionalist American Knights of the Ku Klux Klan (pictured) Malissa Ancona, Jinkerson's mother, pleaded guilty in April to second-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison after she admitted to killing her husband. 'I fired both shots that killed my husband,' she told the judge. Frank - who was an imperial wizard of the Traditionalist American Knights of the Ku Klux Klan - was killed on Feburary 9, 2017. Malissa Ancona, Jinkerson's mother, pleaded guilty in April to second-degree murder and was sentenced to life in prison after she admitted to killing her husband Ancona said Jinkerson had helped her clean up the bloody crime scene and dump her husband's body in the Big River near Belgrade, Missouri. She was also convicted of tampering with evidence and abandonment of a corpse. The story Ancona revealed when she entered her guilty plea was different than the one she told investigators in the days after her husband's murder. In her first interview with St Francois County Sheriff's Department Detective Sgt Matt Wampler, Ancona pinned the murder entirely on her son. She told Wampler, who was the chief investigator in Frank Ancona's murder, that she and her husband had arrived home at 3am on February 9, 2017. Ancona said Jinkerson was already asleep at the home and had 'passed out' from medications he had taken that night, according to Parks Hill Daily Journal. She then decided to take her son's car to a gas station to get food and was gone for 30 minutes. When Ancona returned home, she said there was another man present and that he and Jinkerson had already killed Frank. Ancona (pictured with Frank) said Jinkerson had helped her clean up the bloody crime scene and dump her husband's body in the Big River near Belgrade, Missouri Ancona claimed she hid in the bathroom until the two men left with Frank's body. She said Jinkerson also took the bloody clothes and her husband's car to get rid of all the evidence. Ancona maintained that Jinkerson had killed Frank in her following two interviews. But in her third interview she said she knew her son was going to kill her husband and that she had helped him get rid of the body, the guns, and his car. She told Wampler that Frank was physically abusing her and that she was worried he would divorce her and she would have nowhere to go. Wampler also interviewed Jinkerson, who claimed he had been passed out on the couch that morning and went to McDonald's around 4 to 5am for breakfast before returning to his own home in Belgrade. Surveillance footage from the McDonald's proved that Jinkerson had never been there for breakfast on February 9, 2017. Jinkerson said that he then returned to his parents' home that day and his mother asked him to get rid of four bags of trash. In court on Tuesday, Wampler also showed text messages between Ancona and Jinkerson. But Ancona initially told investigators that it was Jinkerson who had murdered her husband. Pictured is the couple's home after Frank was reported missing 'Ok, but should we say he was attacking me and that's why you did it?' a message from Ancona to Jinkerson read. 'Or that I went for ice cream and a snack and when I came back...,' another read. 'No, we can't change the story now,' Jinkerson responded. The two both also exchanged multiple text messages saying they hoped they could trust each other. On Tuesday Jinkerson testified that he did not shoot his stepfather but did help his mother clean up the crime scene and dispose of his body, according to the St Louis Post-Dispatch. Jinkerson said he also helped dispose of Frank's car. The jury deliberated for three hours before handing down their guilty verdicts at 1am on Wednesday. Jinkerson will be sentenced on July 19. He is currently serving sentences at the Missouri Department of Corrections for property damage, stealing, and possession of a controlled substance. President Donald Trump will not debate former Gov. William Weld or other Republican challengers because 'there is no Republican primary,' his campaign declared, defying other potential challengers. Trump campaign national spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany cited Trump's strong support among Republican voters as well as the enthusiasm of backers who came to see the president speak at a rally on Florida's panhandle Wednesday. 'There is no Republican primary as the RNC has made clear,' she told DailyMail.com in an interview outside a Trump rally in Panama City before Trump spoke. 'Voters support this president to the tune of 93 per cent. That's the highest own party approval rating for a president with one exception and its Bush during 9/11,' she said. NO HANDS: President Trump won't debate former Massachusetts Gov. William Weld because there 'is no Republican primary,' according to his campaign Trump's support hit 91 per cent in a recent Gallup poll, an exceedingly high figure for a president, even as Democrats dig in against him and independents remain split on his reelection. 'President Trump got more votes in the history of our party than any Republican nominee,' McEnany continued. 'So the notion that there is a Republican primary is a false one.' She added: 'There is no Republican primary. The voters in this party, I can tell you this go talk to all these in line [to see Trump]. None of them would know who any of these challengers challenger is. There is no Republican primary.' Trump campaign national press secretary Kaleigh McEnany made the comments in an interview with DailyMail.com Trump won the GOP nomination after flattening opponents in crowded debates Republican presidential candidates, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), Donald Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) listen as answers a question during the Republican presidential debate at the Moores School of Music at the University of Houston on February 25, 2016 in Houston, Texas McEnany greets a member of Bikers for Trump outside a Trump campaign rally Wednesday 'President Trump has the overwhelming support of our party. And guess what? You don't get to be the Republican nominee if you don't have Republican voters.' Earlier this month, a Republican National Committee members voted to eliminate the RNC's debate committee. However, RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel could create a debate committee later. The party continues to close ranks around Trump, with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell this week declaring the 'case closed' against Trump in a floor speech now that the Mueller report is out. A Monmouth University poll in March gave Weld 8 per cent support, with another 10 per cent saying they weren't sure but could support him. Pressed about Weld who was twice elected governor of Massachusetts and was the Libertarian Party's vice presidential nominee in 2016, McEnany shot back: 'I understand the fake news media wants to concoct a primary. But there is no Republican primary. Our voters support the president at a higher rate than Barack Obama had support. Than George Bush had support.' Former Massachusetts Governor William Weld is seeking the Republican presidential nomination Former Ohio Gov. John Kasich hasn't ruled out a run 'I can go down the list. Than any past president. So the fake news can try to create a primary but it doesn't exist because our voters stand with the president,' she said. McEnany also responded to major news Wednesday on the fight for documents, with Trump asserting executive privilege and refusing to allow Attorney General Bill Barr to turn over the un-redacted Mueller report to Democrats in Congress. 'The president has been fully and completely exonerated, this chapter of history is done, Democrats are trying to relive it because they don't like the conclusion of the Mueller report, but the president has been exonerated on all counts,' she said. 'People who misled the nation on collusion and obstruction and are continuing to do so on a myriad of other counts,' she said of Democratic critics. 'I would suggest they legislate rather than investigate, beause they came up short after two years and the American people caught them in their elaborate web of lies.' She rejected House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's claim that Trump is trying to 'goad' Democrats into impeachment. 'That's ridiculous that she's saying that. She's trying to deflect from her own members who are quite vocal about their want of going against the will of the American people and supporting impeachment,' she said. She also brushed off a New York Times story that said Trump lost more than $1 billion over a decade based on IRS transcripts. 'I would echo the president's attorney and refer you to him. He said that this was entirely inaccurate, these were IRS summaries and they are riddled with inaccuracies,' she said. GFG Alliance has made a $100m investment in a South Australian miner with the help of Ashurst. The company, founded and owned by the billionaire Gupta family of Britain, is expected to acquire shares in Havilah Resources, which will use the capital to fully fund work programs for iron-ore assets and copper prospects in the Mutooroo Copper-Cobalt District. Ashurst said that a series of equity placements in Havilah, at a premium of up to 35%, is expected to take place in three years. GFG Alliance will acquire a controlling 51% stake in the company if all the placements are made, after approval from Havilah shareholders. A top AFL journalist was scammed out of $147,000 after a sinister hacker tricked him into believed he was emailing his daughter about financial transactions. Mike Sheahan fell victim to the cunning scam last year when a fraudster pretended to be his daughter in an email thread about money owed to another daughter, Kate. The veteran Melbourne reporter said he was the 'victim of a corrupted email exchange between one of my daughters and my personal assistant on the matter of a debt to another daughter, Kate, of $147,000'. AFL journalist Mike Sheahan, 72, said he was the victim of a 'corrupted email exchange' between one of his daughters about a debt to another daughter, Kate (above) Sheahan, from Melbourne, fell victim to the cunning scam when emails between his daughter and secretary were hacked last year Writing in the Herald Sun, Sheahan said he had borrowed the money from Kate for about three weeks because he wasn't able to withdraw money from a term deposit at the time. 'So, I borrow the required money from my daughter until the term deposit matures, then, in accordance with her apparent wishes, repay her to a CBA account, a new account,' Sheahan wrote. In one email from the thread, the hacker reminded that the money had to be transferred into the new bank account later that night. 'Remember, it has to be done tonight as dad will get a Text msg code,' the email said. But instead of transferring $147,000 to Kate, Sheahan paid the large sum to a complete stranger. Sheahan's bank, Westpac, recovered $7,000 immediately but were not able to get back the rest of the cash straight away. The footy reporter recalled the moment he was phoned by Westpac and told he'd been duped out of the money. Sheahan was busy running errands and asked whether they could call back another time but they insisted it was news he needed to hear. AFL journalist Mike Sheahan, 72, pictured with his daughter Kate Sheahan Mr Sheahan's bank found the woman immediately made two $20,000 withdrawals from her Commonwealth Australia Branch in Leongatha, Victoria (pictured) 'I was just stunned that this could happen, that I could have money in a bank account and forward it to another bank and find that it's gone,' Sheahan told A Current Affair. They found the woman immediately withdrew two lots of $20,000 from her Commonwealth Bank branch in Leongatha, Victoria. When she attempted to transfer the $100,000 to a Westpac account, the bank froze the account and returned the money to Sheahan. I was just stunned that this could happen Mike Sheahan Sheahan is still waiting on his missing $40,000 ten months later but isn't hopeful he'll see the cash anytime soon. 'Imagine someone else my age and say that they've only got $40,000 in the bank and it's gone, what do they do for the rest of their lives?' he said. The woman who stole Sheahan's money still has not been charged. Dr Chris Culnane, a cyber expert at the University of Melbourne, said the incident served as a reminder to use different passwords across all social accounts. Sheahan specialises in AFL and hosts a weekly interview segment with Fox Footy called Open Mike. An accountant who murdered his wife may have buried her alive, a court heard. Ahmed Dawood Seedat, 37, beat his wife Fahima Yusuf with a wheel brace and strangled her to death at their home in Carlisle, Perth, last August. Seedat had been planning to kill the 32-year-old for six weeks so he could make a move on her sister who was unaware of his plot, according to prosecutors. During his 'clumsy' planning, he made online searches including 'can you marry your brother-in-law if sister dead Muslim'. He also searched 'burying someone aliv [sic]' and 'cremating a body', the Perth Supreme Court heard during his sentencing hearing on Wednesday. Ahmed Dawood Seedat (left) made 'disturbing' online searches including how to bury a person alive before he murdered his wife Fahima Yusuf (right) Ms Yusuf's body was found in a shallow grave in their backyard four days after her murder Police found Ms Yusuf's body in a shallow grave in their backyard next to the laundry door, four days after she was murdered. The hole was dug by a contractor, who was told it was to install a pool for the children, the court heard. Prosecutors said they did not know if she was buried dead or alive. Seedat's lawyer Bernard Standish told the court that Seedat had lost attraction for his wife and that he could no longer meet her 'sexual demands'. Seedat claimed to police officers on the night of the murder that he killed her because she tried to come on to him, the court heard. Prosecutor Nicholas Cogan said Seedat had intended to pursue a relationship with his sister-in-law, as evidenced in the tone of his numerous text messages to her. Seedat had texted his sister-in-law saying his wife had 'left' and told her to come to his home to console him, the court heard. Ms Yusuf's sister viewed Seedat as a brother according to her victim impact statement. The court heard Seedat's sister-in-law was not attracted to him or involved in the crime. The hole was dug by a contractor, who was told it was to install a pool for the children, the court heard (pictured: Mr Seedat and Ms Yusuf's backyard which was put up for sale) Ms Yusuf's cause of death remains unknown but she had bruising and lacerations to her scalp, which Seedat said was inflicted with a tyre lever. He later said he strangled Ms Yusuf. She had sand in her mouth, but not in her airways. Seedat repeatedly lied to explain Ms Yusuf's absence, telling neighbours she had gone to the UK for eye surgery and telling her sister she had left him. He even asked a friend to call Ms Yusuf's interstate-based father and impersonate a police officer. Ms Yusuf (pictured left) and Seedat (pictured right) lived in the Perth suburb of Carlisle with their two children aged two and five Mr Cogan said there was no evidence Seedat wanted to leave the marriage but killed his wife because he had lost interest in her. He said she died as a result of Seedat's 'brutal and sustained actions' but it was not known whether she was still alive when she was buried. He said there was no evidence Ms Yusuf had intentions to leave her husband. Defence counsel Bernard Standish conceded the murder was premeditated and said his client was ashamed. 'There is not a day that goes by that he does not think about what he has done,' he said. Justice Bruno Fiannaca will sentence Seedat on May 27. The case accusing former teacher Chris Dawson of killing his wife on Sydney's northern beaches 37 years ago is expected to return to court. Lynette Dawson's disappearance in 1982 was the subject of highly popular investigative podcast series The Teacher's Pet before her former husband was charged. An update on the court case on Thursday may answer whether prosecutors will use as evidence any material collected by journalist Hedley Thomas for the podcast. The case accusing former teacher Chris Dawson of killing his wife on Sydney's northern beaches 37 years ago is expected to return to court Prosecutors were granted extra time in February to sift through the material, amounting to more than 100 gigabytes. It's unclear whether the accused 70-year-old will be present in Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday. He is currently living on Queensland's Sunshine Coast under strict bail conditions. Lynette Dawson's disappearance in 1982 was the subject of highly popular investigative podcast series The Teacher's Pet before her former husband was charged Dawson's solicitor has suggested Thomas potentially compromised the case by interviewing witnesses for The Teacher's Pet. 'Not only the accused's case but the prosecution case (too) because what he's done is to impact upon the reliability of witnesses,' Greg Walsh told reporters outside court in February. By asking people to relive their experiences, and divulging new information to witnesses, the 'risk of contamination and collusion was a real one', Mr Walsh said. They say school days are the best of your life and while that may be true for some, for a large number of American kids, it's true because it provides them with at least one decent meal a day. But when schools finish for summer break and children bolt out to experience the joy and freedom summer can bring, an alarming number of them will leave behind a reliable source of daily and necessary nutrition. More than 12 million children are categorized as living in 'food insecure' households, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Research shows family grocery costs rise more than $300 a month when school is out, putting a strain on low budgets. Thousands of school children will go without their usual meals during the summer months and tech companies are doing all they can to help out. Due to factors including the sky-high price of food and access, some children are forced into a period of 'summer hunger,' where theyre likely to skip one or more of their crucial daily meals. According to data from No Kid Hungry, 6 out of 7 hungry kids don't get the summer meals they need and the current national summer meals program is able to serve only 15 per cent of children in need of meals. But to make it easier for kids to get the food they need during those summer months, there are a number of ways technology can help. Text Alerts Technology plays a pivotal role to ensure that kids are getting the same nutrition as they would throughout the school year. One of those initiatives has been the No Kid Hungry texting program. By simply texting FOOD or COMIDA to 877-877, youll receive information for the closest summer meals site in your neighborhood. By simply texting FOOD or COMIDA to 877-877, youll receive information for the closest summer meals site in your neighborhood. Interactive Maps The U.S. Department of Agricultures website helps those in need find summer meals in their community with a locator map. By inserting your address into the search box, a list of sites will populate that are serving free meals. Mobile Apps Apps like MealConnect and Meet Up and Eat Up (among others) endeavor to help hungry children in need. Meet Up and Eat up creates a partner network of sponsors and meal vendors in different regions that can offer free breakfasts and lunches to kids. They served more than one million meals last summer. MealConnect matches food companies that donate surplus food with volunteers who can pick it up and provide it to food banks in real time. Meet Up and Eat Up was created to ensure that children have access to healthy and nourishing foods when school is not in session. Crowdfunding Crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe arent going anywhere anytime soon. Theyve helped families in dire straits raise large amounts of money in the nick of time. There are already more than 15,000 ongoing summer food campaigns that are live on the site, making it easy for anyone to donate money to communities and families in need. Cost-conscious meal kits As one of the leaders in the fight against hunger, Feeding Children Everywhere created a boxed grocery delivery product that is similar to Hello Fresh and Blue Apron, except significantly cheaper. Meal kits like Blue Apron can cost more than $7 per serving, while Full Cart is only $.024 per serving. Other meal kits cost around $7.49 per serving while Full Cart is only $.024 per serving. Another bonus is that customers pay per box and they dont have to sign up for a subscription. You can also buy someone in need a gift card to spend on the site. Social Media Groups At Facebooks annual F8 conference, the social media giant emphasized its push for a sense of community through groups. We can expect in the coming months that people will use the outlet as a way to help those in need. Even using the site to let others know about ways they can get free or cheap meals is a good start. Facebook is making a huge push to bring its users closer together by promoting groups on the platform. Instagram also introduced a new donation feature, which helps organizations dedicated to the fight against summer hunger to raise more money. Mobile Payment Apps Thanks to the rise of mobile payment apps like Venmo and Cash, you dont even need to be in the same room with a person to send and receive money. These apps make it easy to quickly provide money for food to those in need. And in the past, Venmo has helped Feeding America by giving to people in need every time someone used a custom emoji in their payment notes. Crowd-sourcing potential food waste One of the ways to really help those in need is to pay special attention to food waste. Transfernation, a New York City-based non-profit organization, is leading the charge to rescue leftover food from major events and put it in the hands of people who need it most. Using the companys digital app, volunteers can request a pickup for untouched extra food. Transfernation is leading the charge to rescue leftover food from major events and put it in the hands of people who need it most Donate stock No Kid Hungry offers the opportunity for people to gift stock options or appreciated securities electronically to their account. No Kid Hungry offers the opportunity for people to gift stock options or appreciated securities electronically to their account. Sign an online petition or email your local lawmaker One of the easiest and most powerful ways to make your voice heard or make your opinion count, is to sign an online petition aimed at combating summer hunger or providing for 'food insecure' neighborhoods. No Kid Hungry provides a way to easily email your local lawmaker to urge them to support local programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which helps provide children in need with consistent, reliable access to food. A piece of Stonehenge removed 60 years ago by a workman during restoration work has finally been returned to its rightful home in Britain after being kept as a souvenir in America for decades. Robert Phillips was part of a team from Van Moppes, a Basingstoke diamond cutting business, that extracted a 4ft section from one of the standing stones in 1958. Deemed little more than waste material at the time, Mr Phillips nevertheless decided to keep the core of stone and displayed it in his offices. When he emigrated to Florida, Mr Phillips took it with him placing it pride of place on the shelf of his new workplace. But decades later, on the eve of his 90th birthday, he decided to return it to the country of his birth. Now it is hoped the thin cylinder can be studied to cast light on the ancient stone circle - and may help solve the riddle of where the sarsen stones came from. Unlike the smaller bluestones at the site, which were quarried at the Preseli mountains in Wales, the origin of the sarsens is unknown. It was one of three sections of rock to be removed during the works decades ago. English Heritage said it would like to hear from anyone who was involved - or whose family was involved - in the archaeological excavations at Stonehenge during the 1950s and who has more information as to the remaining two cores' whereabouts. Scroll down for video A piece of Stonehenge secretly removed 60 years ago during restoration work has finally been returned to its rightful home in Britain after a trip across the Atlantic. The four-foot long stone core (pictured) was taken from one of the standing stones Robert Phillips (pictured, right, with wife Joan) was leading a project to remove a four-foot long stone core from one of the standing stones The 1958 project was aimed to help preserve and save the iconic structure after some of the large stones began crumbling. Stone cores were taken out and replaced with metal alternatives to strengthen it To extract the cores, engineers used an annular drill - which has a ring shaped drilling bit - to remove the pole-like piece of rock. Metal rods were then inserted into the crumbling stone in a bid to hold it together and the holes blocked up with fragments of Sarsen. Mr Phillips, an engineer with a keen interest in archaeology, kept it in a Perspex tube in his office. Now is in poor health, he was unable to return the stone in person and instead sent his sons. Robert's sons, Robin, 57, a solicitor of Bath, and Lewis, 63, who works in finance, of Canterbury travelled to Stonehenge to return the piece of rock. There they officially presented it to English Heritage curator, Heather Sebire. Robert's sons, Robin (right), 57, a solicitor of Bath, and Lewis (left), 63, who works in finance, of Canterbury travelled to Stonehenge after the core had been rightfully returned to the site after a 60 year hiatus To extract the cores, engineers used an annular drill - which has a ring shaped drilling bit - to remove the pole-like piece of rock. Metal rods were then inserted into the crumbling stone in a bid to hold it together and the holes blocked up with fragments of Sarsen English Heritage said it would like to hear from anyone who was involved - or whose family was involved - in the archaeological excavations at Stonehenge during the 1950s and who has more information as to the remaining cores' whereabouts But Lewis Phillips told the Daily Mail his father wanted the stone to come back. 'I recall as a teenager visiting my dad in his office and there was this long Perspex tube containing the drilled out bits of stone and a picture of the drilling works in progress. 'So in 1976 when he left the firm, and everybody else in the project had departed and nobody else seemed to be interested in this piece of stone, he took it with him when he left and it went with him as he travelled across America. 'It was displayed in various homes my parents were in,' and Mr Phillips later divorced and remarried. 'My father is 90 and in recent years there have been concerns that as and when he dies he didn't want this thing getting lost or chucked away. He was keen it should come back.' The Stonehenge monument standing today was the final stage of a four part building project that ended 3,500 years ago Stonehenge is one of the most prominent prehistoric monuments in Britain. The Stonehenge that can be seen today is the final stage that was completed about 3,500 years ago. According to the monument's website, Stonehenge was built in four stages: First stage: The first version of Stonehenge was a large earthwork or Henge, comprising a ditch, bank and the Aubrey holes, all probably built around 3100 BC. The Aubrey holes are round pits in the chalk, about one metre (3.3 feet) wide and deep, with steep sides and flat bottoms. Stonehenge (pictured) is one of the most prominent prehistoric monuments in Britain They form a circle about 86.6 metres (284 feet) in diameter. Excavations revealed cremated human bones in some of the chalk filling, but the holes themselves were likely not made to be used as graves, but as part of a religious ceremony. After this first stage, Stonehenge was abandoned and left untouched for more than 1,000 years. Second stage: The second and most dramatic stage of Stonehenge started around 2150 years BC, when about 82 bluestones from the Preseli mountains in south-west Wales were transported to the site. It's thought that the stones, some of which weigh four tonnes each, were dragged on rollers and sledges to the waters at Milford Haven, where they were loaded onto rafts. They were carried on water along the south coast of Wales and up the rivers Avon and Frome, before being dragged overland again near Warminster and Wiltshire. The final stage of the journey was mainly by water, down the river Wylye to Salisbury, then the Salisbury Avon to west Amesbury. The journey spanned nearly 240 miles, and once at the site, the stones were set up in the centre to form an incomplete double circle. During the same period, the original entrance was widened and a pair of Heel Stones were erected. The nearer part of the Avenue, connecting Stonehenge with the River Avon, was built aligned with the midsummer sunrise. Third stage: The third stage of Stonehenge, which took place about 2000 years BC, saw the arrival of the sarsen stones (a type of sandstone), which were larger than the bluestones. They were likely brought from the Marlborough Downs (40 kilometres, or 25 miles, north of Stonehenge). The largest of the sarsen stones transported to Stonehenge weighs 50 tonnes, and transportation by water would not have been possible, so it's suspected that they were transported using sledges and ropes. Calculations have shown that it would have taken 500 men using leather ropes to pull one stone, with an extra 100 men needed to lay the rollers in front of the sledge. These stones were arranged in an outer circle with a continuous run of lintels - horizontal supports. Inside the circle, five trilithons - structures consisting of two upright stones and a third across the top as a lintel - were placed in a horseshoe arrangement, which can still be seen today. Final stage: The fourth and final stage took place just after 1500 years BC, when the smaller bluestones were rearranged in the horseshoe and circle that can be seen today. The original number of stones in the bluestone circle was probably around 60, but these have since been removed or broken up. Some remain as stumps below ground level. Source: Stonehenge.co.uk Advertisement 'It's a much travelled piece of stone, it's probably the furthest any bit of Stonehenge has gone. It's great they are able to use this, it's got provenance and we know exactly which stone it came from. There are lots of stone fragments buried around the monument, but we don't know exactly which stone they came from, but we do with this one.' 'I remember going to Stonehenge with my dad as a little kid, and he pointed out to me the work they did. Nowadays of course you cannot get so close. It would be nice if it went on display.' 'At the time in the 1950s it would have just been waste material, it's possible the other two cores just got thrown away.' Heather Sebire, English Heritage's curator for Stonehenge, said: 'The last thing we ever expected was to get a call from someone in America telling us they had a piece of Stonehenge. We are very grateful to the Phillips family for bringing this intriguing piece of Stonehenge back home. Studying the Stonehenge core's 'DNA' could tell us more about where those enormous sarsen stones originated. 'The other two Stonehenge cores may still be out there somewhere and if anyone has any information, we'd love to hear from them.' A British Academy and Leverhulme Trust project, led by Professor David Nash of the University of Brighton, is investigating the chemical composition of the sarsen stones at Stonehenge in order to pinpoint their source. Professor David Nash, Brighton University, said: 'Archaeologists and geologists have been debating where the stones used to build Stonehenge came from for years. The bluestones have attracted a lot of attention recently, but in contrast little has been done to look at the sources of the larger sarsen stones. 'Conventional wisdom suggests that they all came from the relatively nearby Marlborough Downs but initial results from our analysis suggest that in fact the sarsens may come from more than one location. 'Our geochemical fingerprinting of the sarsens in situ at Stonehenge, and of the core itself, when compared with samples from areas across southern England will hopefully tell us where the different stones came from.' Unlike the smaller bluestones, which are known to have been quarried in the Preseli mountains of Wales, it is still an open question where the great Sarsens came from.Researchers hope the four-foot long stone core will shed light on this mystery The stone core was one of three 'cores' drilled out of a giant stone during the raising of a fallen trilithon, a group of two upright stones with a third across the top, in 1958. Monolith building is thought to have arrived in the UK around 4,000 BC (pictured) from people originating from France and Spain Clever men are more fertile and have more children than others, research has found. The findings suggest that those with higher IQs are considered more attractive by women. In addition, being intelligent leads to status in society and more wealth - extra factors as to why eggheads are considered a catch. The research overturns previous findings - that larger families are the preserve of people who are not blessed with higher IQs. Clever men are more fertile and have more children than others, research has found. Stock picture University of Stockholm scientists looked at a database of IQ scores of all Swedish men born between 1951 and 1967. The IQ tests were used for conscription to the armys national service and covered more than 779,000 men. They then followed up how many children each man went on to have. The scientists writing in the Royal Society Journal Proceedings B said: We find a positive relationship between intelligence scores and fertility, and this pattern is consistent across the cohorts we study. They added: Men with the lowest categories of IQ scores have the fewest children. The researchers said they controlled for additional factors such as levels of education and parental background. They said: After such adjustments we find a stronger positive relationship between IQ and fertility. To assess the impact of family background, the researchers compared how many children brothers had. They found that a brother with the lowest category of cognitive ability would have 0.58 fewer children compared to a brother with an IQ of 100, the average IQ level, while men with the highest category had 0.14 more children than someone of the average ability. While it may sound comical to talk about an extra child or 14 per cent of a child, across a whole population, this would mean thousands of extra children born to more intelligent people thousands fewer to the less intelligent. The researchers said that earlier research on the subject had been flawed as, unlike the Swedish survey, they were not based on a whole population, but instead school classes or samples. The authors say that possible explanations are that having a low IQ score is closely linked to poor health in childhood, which may be the reason why people with lower scores have fewer children. They added: The positive relationship between intelligence and fertility is probably explained by men with higher cognitive ability having higher status and more resources, and the fact that high cognitive ability is an attractive trait in the partner market. They said the trend emerging in Sweden is likely to be seen elsewhere: We think that a plausible future scenario is that many societies will see the re-emergence of a positive association between high intelligence as well as other dimensions and correlates of status-and fertility. The heat of summer has not even arrived yet but already the UK is well on track for another record-breaking year of fires. This is the warning from NASA scientists who have been monitoring the appearance of blazes across Britain over the last five years. Since 2017, the number of UK fires detected from space has been increasing - thanks to increasingly warm and dry weather conditions that encourage blazes. There have already been more fires in the UK so far this year than had occurred by the same point back in 2018. Major blazes hit across February and April in East Sussex, Moray and West Yorkshire. Scroll down for video NASA and the NOAA have been monitoring global wildfires from space since 2014. Each of the red dots on this map of the UK represents the location of a fire detected by the orbiting Suomi NPP satellite between January 1 and April 30 this year NASA, in tandem with the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, has been monitoring global wildfires from space since 2014. The Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIIRS) on-board the Suomi NPP satellite has been tasked with looking out for fires. Each of the red dots on the map of the UK above represents the location of a fire detected by the orbiting satellite between January 1 and April 30 this year. However, a single fire can be detected repeatedly by the satellite if it burns over more than one day. Hundreds of fires have been detected across the UK this year to date, with more certain to follow. Using the satellite data, researchers are also able to examine the rate at which fires appear to have been igniting over time. The data shows a seasonal tend in the frequency of fire detections, with more blazes spotted by the satellite in the spring and summer months. At these times, NASA said, vegetation that had been frozen and dried during the winter months becomes fuel for wildfires. The data shows a seasonal tend in the frequency of fire detections, with more blazes spotted by the satellite in the spring and summer months WHY DID FEBRUARY 2018 SEE SO MANY WILDFIRES IN THE UK? Warm sunshine has dried out Britain's uplands to the extent that emergency services have already had to tackle a spate of fires. Normally in February, moorland in areas such as the Pennines and North Wales is soaking wet and boggy. But grass, gorse and heather have dried out due to a lack of rain in the last fortnight. Firefighters in Sussex said 'unusual warm weather' meant the ground was drier than usual. Grass fires can develop quickly in dry conditions and raised winds with the possibility of quickly spreading. They are often caused deliberately by people, but can also happen when controlled fires get out of hand. Fire crews in North Wales said deliberate mountain fires have a 'hugely detrimental' impact on wildlife. When road access is not possible to fight them, then they are often left to burn themselves out. Advertisement The number of fires detected in the UK has also been increasing since 2017. This is due to an rise in warm and dry weather conditions across the UK in both 2017 and 2018, the European Commissions Joint Research Center has said. This broad trend looks set to continue, with the UK having already experienced more wildfires by the end of April 2019 than it had at the same point in 2018, which was a record-breaking year in its own right. 'Drier-than-normal conditions can boost fire detections in two ways,' said Wilfrid Schroeder, an expert in the remote sensing of fires, based at the University of Maryland, who is the chief researcher for the VIIRS active fire detection system. Firstly, he notes, dry conditions more easily enable the ignition and spread of fires. Dr Schroeder added that there also tends to be less cloud coverage when it is dry, which makes blazes easier for the satellite to spot from space. The number of fires detected has also been increased since 2017. Pictured: fire ravages the landscape of Uppermill, near Saddleworth, in February February also saw fires erupt on West Yorkshire's Saddlesworth Moor (pictured), following the UK's warmest winter day on record A NASA satellite image captured the June 2018 Saddleworth Moor blaze from space Among this year's conflagrations to date have been blazes igniting in both February and April in the Ashdown Forest, the inspiration for Winnie the Pooh's home of the Hundred Acre Wood in the books of A.A. Milne. February also saw fires erupt on West Yorkshire's Saddlesworth Moor, following the UK's warmest winter day on record. Up in the north, Scotland has also seen its share of ignitions, including a major wildfire adjacent to a wind farm in Moray. Fires can have devastating impacts on both the environment and animal life and the blazes can be extremely difficult to fight once they get going. Last year, for example, wildfires on Saddleworth Moor raged for days, forcing the emergency services to call in both the army and the Royal Air Force to assist in tacking the infernos. In the dramatic footage below, local farmer James Crowther, 30, accompanied by friends, family and sheepdogs, braved the burning landscape on quad bikes to evacuate his 3,000 livestock to safe ground. NASA, in tandem with the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, has been monitoring global wildfires from space using the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite on-board the Suomi NPP satellite (pictured, artist's impression) Use of robots in construction will rapidly expand in the coming years with increasing speed, efficiency, safety, and profits, a new report claims. The industry is 'ripe for disruption' after relying on manual labour for so long, according to AI consulting firm Tractica. It cited the recent adoption of robotic technology by a number of companies as the beginning of a growth curve. Projections place the value of the construction robotics industry in the region of $226 million (173m) by 2025, a 10 fold increase compared to 2018. Wile the majority of demand is likely to come from construction sites such as demolition, a number of more specialised functions such as 3D printing, also face mass automation. Scroll down for video A report into the global construction industry has predicted that its use of robots will rapidly expand in the coming years, raising speed, efficiency, safety, and profits. The photo shows a robo-welder from Japanese construction giant Shimizu Corp. (AP Photo/Koji Sasahara) These robots fall under the categories of infrastructure robots, structure robots, and finishing robots. According to Tractica, while productivity in many other industries globally have leapfrogged, the lack of technological advance in the construction filed until recent years has meant that productivity has stalled. A summary of the report read: 'a growing number of construction companies are incorporating robots to solve labour shortages and reap the benefits of improved speed, efficiency, safety, and profits. 'Robots are beginning to make their way into a variety of construction tasks, promising to change the way the industry creates homes, buildings, and other infrastructure.' According to the AI consulting firm Tractica the industry is 'ripe for disruption' after relying on manual labour for so long. Projections place the value of the construction robotics industry in the region of $226 million (173m) by 2025, a 10 fold increase compared to 2018 A Japanese company Shimizu Corp. showed off its Robo-Buddy at the Japanese construction company's robot laboratory in Tokyo in April last year. Shimizu showed several robots that can weld and bolt, being developed for construction sites for safety for workers 'At this early stage in the construction robotics industry, a few companies are offering products for sale or lease,' said Glenn Sanders, a senior analyst at Tractica. 'The main categories that are currently available include robots for demolition, bricklaying, drilling, 3D printing, and rebar tying, plus a few exoskeletons and assistant robots for lifting loads.' Mr Sanders also added that midsize and major construction companies are beginning to adopt these robots to solve issues related to labour shortages, as well as to improve safety, speed, accuracy, and integration with building automation and building information modelling (BIM). The latest trends and insights built on interviews with CEOs and research profiling 28 key players in the construction industry, and 60 significant and emerging industry players, said the intelligence firm. According to the AI consulting firm Tractica the recent adoption of robotic technology by a number of companies as the beginning of a growth curve. The image shows a Twitter post from the firm showing the value growth of shipments of construction robots globally CAN AI ROBOTS REPLACE CONSTRUCTION WORKERS? Robotics are common in manufacturing sites, such as auto plants, but those machines are stationery and carrying out the same task over and over, often in sterile and enclosed environments. Robots used in construction sites have to move around. Although much of what they may do is repetitive, they still have to respond to uneven floors and zigzagging routes, depending on a building's design. Shimizu says it is developing its own artificial intelligence systems, using robots made by Kuka Robotics of Germany. If they work successfully, the robots could help reduce safety risks and long hours for construction workers. Using robots makes sense in urban construction, where buildings are high-rise and the same work is repeated on each floor. Advertisement Previously, robots that can weld, lift and bolt had been developed and shown to help cope with a shortage of human workers. Last year, Japanese construction company Shimizu Corp. showed off several robots in its robotics lab in Tokyo last year, including one robot already in use at construction sites. The 'robo-welder' was seen to pick up a big pile of boards and taking them into an elevator. Their use were however limited to night shifts when no human workers will be nearby due to safety and regulatory concerns, the company said at the time. The UK is also investing in construction automation, including innovative aerial drones in building sites. In March this year, the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) announced 18m in funding to support digital transformation of the construction industry. Dr Mirko Kovac from Imperial college who directs the Aerial Robotics Laboratory at the university is leading a research project to explore robotic platform solutions for construction of groups of robotics. Using would reduce human risk, allow tasks to be completed faster, and allow better monitoring, such as getting the robots to collect data on tasks they are performing, according to the researchers. Dr Kovac said: 'The cities of the future could be built and maintained by groups of land-based and flying robots working together to construct, assess, and repair the urban ecosystem of buildings and infrastructure. 'Nature provides ample proof that such collective construction is possible, and by applying some of these ideas to how drones are constructed, operated and made to cooperate, we could make this dream a reality.' The OECD says its time to develop a plan for when automation overtakes many industries as we currently know them. Researchers outlined highlights from their findings in a graphic, shown above Nevertheless, concerns that robots will drive the automation and job loss is an issue that faces the manual labour work sector as well as the wider global jobs market. A report last month from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), a coalition of 36 countries across the world also warned that nearly half of all jobs could be lost or radically transformed as a result of automation within the next two decades. According to the organisation, 14 per cent of jobs will be completely automated in the next two decades while 32 per cent of jobs will be vastly different from what they look like now as a result of the process. The full report can be found on the Tractica website. Dogs used in the ritual sacrifices of the ancient Chinese Shang dynasty elites were mainly puppies and some were even trussed up and buried alive. This is the finding of researchers from China and the US, who gathered data on all known Shang dynasty dog burials to investigate the sacrificial traditions. The experts suggest that puppies were sacrificed as a more economical stand in than raising fully-grown animals, which in turn were cheaper than human offerings. Scroll down for video In the ancient city of Zhengzhou, archaeologists had uncovered eight neatly-dug pits four oval, four rectangular which collectively held the remains of 92 dogs that, given the arrangement of their skeletons, were likely tied up and buried alive The Shang dynasty ruled over the Yellow River Valley in the centre of China between around 1600 and 1046 BC. The elite of the Shang dynasty commonly undertook ritual human and animal sacrifices, placing offered remains in burial pits or within the tombs of the dead. Archaeologist Roderick Campbell of the New York University and Zhipeng Li of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences collected data on all Shang dynasty archaeological sites where evidence of dog sacrifices had been unearthed. As it is difficult for foreign archaeologists to get permits to dig in China, Professor Campbell and Dr Li sourced most of their data from existing studies and finds by other researchers. The duo were surprised to discover that the majority of sacrificed dogs were but puppies when they were killed, while others were lain out in a manner that suggested they had been tied up and buried alive. 'Puppies, that sounds horrible,' Professor Campbell told Live Science. 'On the other hand, if it's not your puppy and if you're living in a society where you don't have the same assumptions of dogs and cuteness,' he added. 'It's a cheaper investment in the animal. You don't have to raise it yourself.' Some of the canine remains were found with small bronze bells tied about their necks a finding which might encourage one to see them as pets. Analysis of the bones, however, revealed that 73 per cent of the dogs were under a year old at death, suggesting otherwise According to Professor Campbell, dogs have been used in ritual sacrifices in China for the entirety of the known archaeological records. The earliest evidence for such practices date to around 70505850 BC and come from the neolithic settlement of Jiahu, which is located in central China, 14 miles (22 kilometres) north of the modern-day city of Wuyang. Eleven dog burials have been excavated from the site, which is believed to have once been a settlement of the agricultural Peiligang culture that likely served as home for at least 250 people. In the ancient city of Zhengzhou, archaeologists had uncovered eight neatly-dug pits four oval, four rectangular which collectively held the remains of 92 dogs that, given the arrangement of their skeletons, were likely tied up and buried alive. By the time of the Erligang culture, which lived back around 1500 BC in what is today the province of Henan, dogs began to be placed in human tombs as well. The researchers found that these dogs had been deposited in places similar to those in which human sacrifices might also have been left, such as on a ledge or within a niche within the tomb, or buried underneath the torso of the tomb's owner. WHO WERE THE SHANG DYNASTY? The Shang dynasty ruled over the Yellow River Valley in the centre of China between around 1600 and 1046 BC. They were the second of the traditional Chinese dynasties, succeeding the Xia dynasty and being followed by the Zhou dynasty. However, it is the earliest dynasty for which there has remained preserved archaeological evidence. The elite of the Shang dynasty commonly undertook ritual sacrifices, placing offered remains in burial pits or within the tombs of the dead. The last Shang Dynasty city was Yin, which was located near what is today the city of Anyang. Excavations of the Yin ruins have unearthed the early examples of Chinese writing, in the form of inscriptions made on oracle bones. Oracle bones - of which around an estimated 100,000 have been discovered - were used in divination rituals. DNA analysis has revealed a similarity between the Shang Dynasty inhabitants of Yin and modern-day northern Han Chinese peoples. Advertisement At first, Professor Campbell assumed that these dogs could have been beloved pets, dispatched to join and guard their deceased masters in the afterlife. Some of the canine remains were found with small bronze bells tied about their necks a finding which might encourage one to see them as pets. Analysing the bones, however, revealed that 73 per cent of the entombed dogs were under a year old when they died, and 37 per cent were less than 6 months old. Had the dogs been pets, one would expect to find a wider range of ages preserved, Campbell said. Instead, the researchers propose that the animals were meant as stand-ins for ritual human sacrifices a more manageable alternative for those that could not afford to offer concubines or slaves, as was common practice among Shang dynasty elites. 'From a Bronze-Age economic perspective, that seems like a likely avenue,' Professor Campbell said. As today, dogs have historically held a relationship with humans that is distinct from livestock like cattle or pigs. 'They're much more in a liminal zone between what counts for people and what counts for non-people,' Professor Campbell said. The sacrifice of dogs likely remained an important tradition even into the late Shang Dynasty, with inscriptions on oracle bones found in the capital city of Yin suggesting that the animals were still being ritually offered to the gods of the sky Substitutions within Shang dynasty rituals were not uncommon, he explained, with fake bronzes and miniature ceramics often buried with the dead in the place of authentic and fully-sized possessions. Similarly, modern-day Chinese funeral practices include the burning of paper items and fake money as a symbolic gesture. In this light, puppies could be seen as a stand-in for both fully grown guard dogs and humans, the researchers propose. As to where all of these dogs came from, Professor Campbell suggested that dogs might have been specifically reared for sacrificial purposes. He calculated that a stock of around 500 adult dogs could have bred enough puppies to satisfy the demand of the Shang dynasty at any time. Alternatively, the dogs could have simply been rounded up from the stray population, which might have larger in the days before routine spaying and neutering. Alongside dogs, pigs were also frequently ritually killed by the ancient Chinese, Campbell said. As trade with western Eurasia increased over the Bronze age, he added, imported cattle, goats and sheep also become common sacrificial animals. However, the sacrifice of dogs likely remained an important tradition even into the late Shang Dynasty, Professor Campbell said. Inscriptions on oracle bones remains used for divination found in the Shang Dynasty capital city of Yin suggest that the animals were then still ritually offered to the gods of the sky. Many questions remain, however, as to the exact nature of sacrificial practices undertaken during the Shang dynasty. For example: did ordinary, rural people perform the same traditions as the elite? 'We've been focused on palaces and kings for pretty much 100 years in Shang studies,' Professor Campbell cautioned. 'I think that's given us a really warped perspective on that society,' he added 'I would really like to see more work done on villages.' The full findings of the study were published in the journal Archaeological Research in Asia. A design change which would allow users to listen to YouTube without video would reduce the company's carbon footprint by up to 500,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. YouTube's annual carbon footprint amounts to 10 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, according to researchers. Streaming videos uses a lot of energy, in order for your internet or phone network to carry the video to you, they go through servers at data centres that host them. Data centres owned by companies like Google, which owns YouTube, use massive amounts of carbon dioxide, produced by coal or natural gas, that often power them. The University of Bristol's estimates are based on data from YouTube released publicly on the electricity needed used to power the streaming site globally in 2016. They say that the video streaming giant could reduce their carbon footprint if they allowed users to listen to audio on an inactive screen. Scroll down for video Data centres owned by companies like Google, which owns YouTube, use massive amounts of carbon dioxide, produced by coal or natural gas, that often power them. The estimates are based on public data from YouTube. Here, Google's data centre in Germany Non-paying users who listening to the app requires it to be kept open and the screen active. Currently, only YouTube Premium subscribers who pay a monthly fee are able to listen to audio without use of the screen. Professor Chris Preist, who led the study said that efforts to cut down on 'digital waste' and make the digital pipeline more environmentally friendly tend to focus on data centres but also accounting for it is supplying the hardware. Professor Priest told MailOnline: 'The energy is used in the YouTube data centres, but also in the network equipment spread around the world, including the mobile transmission masts if you are watching on a mobile phone. 'YouTube buys green energy for its own data centres to offset that part, which is a really good thing to do.' He said that Google is one of the leading companies from an environmental point of view that does this. The study, however, noted that the energy used to power servers and networks is roughly the same amount as Luxembourg or Zimbabwe's yearly output. This is roughly equivalent of the annual greenhouse gas produced by 30,000 UK homes. Dr Daniel Schien, one of the researchers, said that tech companies should implement the radio mode as a sustainability feature to reduce digital waste. Youtube now has now reached two billion users logged in every month despite recent controversies revolving around harmful and disturbing content. The Google-owned company was at 1.8 billion viewers a year ago but has now crossed the milestone Other features could include the option to disable videos from autoplaying, or not letting podcasts download new episodes if there is an unplayed backlog. 'It's down to the companies to design these services so that they can be delivered efficiently to the whole planet,' Professor Preist added. It's incredibly difficult to measure a carbon footprint directly, so scientists are often forced to estimate how much carbon is produced by different activities. As well as the data from YouTube, the team used Netflix data centres energy figures, which they believe are similar in efficiency to YouTube's networks. HOW COULD TECHNOLOGY FIRMS REDUCE THEIR CARBON FOOTPRINT? Digital technology companies could reduce the carbon footprint of service like YouTube by making changes to how they are designed, the study said. The energy used to power servers and networks which allow users to watch millions of videos a day is roughly the same amount as Luxembourg or Zimbabwe. The researchers suggest that making sustainability the primary focus of projects involving the use of technologies has more potential to offer in terms of carbon savings than companies currently explore. 'Digital services are an everyday part of our lives,' said lead researcher Chris Preist, Professor at University of Bristol. 'But they require significant energy to deliver globally -- not only in data centres, but also in networks, mobile networks and end devices - and so overall can have a big carbon footprint,' Professor Preist said. The reductions that could be gained by eliminating one example of 'digital waste' - or having the option to have the screen inactive to people who are only using YouTube to listen to audio. They estimated this could reduce the footprint by up to 500,000 tonnes of CO2 annually - the carbon footprint of roughly 30,000 UK homes. Advertisement Professor Priest and his team took into account the proportion of viewers watching on different devices, such as smartphones and laptops, based on user figures provided by the BBC. The research also doesn't look at how much carbon was produced during the manufacturing process of the hardware that makes streaming possible like servers, computers and phones. 'We use YouTube as an example to show a few things, Professor Priest said. 'Firstly, even though for each of us our digital carbon footprint is small, for any big global service such as YouTube it adds up to be something worth paying attention to. 'Secondly, by understanding the big picture (not just the data centres) software designers can find new ways of reducing it.' MailOnline has contacted Google for comment. Australian partner takes role in new HFW innovation committee HFW has formed an Innovation Committee to identify potential business and service improvements. It brings together representatives from across the firms global reach including lawyers and business services professionals. Improvements identified by the committee will be submitted to the firms management board. Innovation is a real buzzword across the industry at the moment, but it is very easy to get carried away by new technologies without stopping to think about what you're trying to achieve, said managing partner Jeremy Shebson. We are very clear in our approach in only focusing on innovation that will deliver meaningful benefits to our clients and to us as a business. A prehistoric burial site has revealed the brutal massacre of the women and children of a large family in Poland 4,800 years ago. That's the theory of researchers who have analysed the remains of a group of 15 prehistoric people uncovered near the village of Koszyce. The tragic burial site is strangely lacking adult men and experts believe the women and children in the grave were murdered while the men were away. They suggest they returned from a trip, perhaps a hunting expedition, to find their families slaughtered at the hands of a violent rival group. The surviving warriors carefully arranged the remains of their loved ones , with mothers cradling their children and accompanied with jewellery and pets. Scroll down for video A prehistoric burial site has revealed the brutal massacre of the women and children of a large family in Poland 4,800 years ago. That's the theory of researchers who have analysed the remains of a group of 15 prehistoric people. Pictured: Bones of the dead Excavations in 2011 uncovered the mass grave and the smashed bones and caved skulls within revealed their violent deaths. Analysis of the bones of the dead showed they all came from a group of interrelated families who lived around 2800 BC Four of the women were buried alongside their children and, of the few men in the pit, four were half-brothers. The heart-ache for those who buried the slaughtered family members is expressed in how they are positioned, researchers suggest. A middle-aged woman was placed next to her two young sons and a 30-to 35-year-old mother was laid to rest alongside her teenage daughter and five-year-old son. It remains unknown why there are so many men disproportionately absent from the grave, but it is speculated a large group may have been away hunting or farming. A plethora of goods was also found at the site, indicating the people belonged to the Globular Amphora culture. The tragic burial site is strangely lacking adult men and experts believe the women and children in the grave were murdered while the men were away. This image illustrates how the bodies were found and their relationship to one another. Genome analysis found the people to be farmers and the research, published in PNAS, says the Corded Ware people may have been to blame for the heinous act. The groups shared DNA but the Corded Ware society was thriving and expanding rapidly across Europe, and this may have led to the slaughter of the neighbouring people. The Corded Ware people are believed to have interbred and merged with the Yamnaya folk, who have recently been heralded as the most violent group of people to ever live. Yamnaya culture emerged roughly 5,00 years ago in the European steppe and spread rapidly across the rest of the continent, destroying cultures and interbreeding. Ancient DNA reveals these migrants were well nourished, tall and muscular. Some archaeologists also argue that the warrior tribe consisted of skilled horsemen. 'It looks like they lived mostly on meat and milk products,' Kristian Kristiansen at the University of Gothenburg told New Scientist. 'They were healthier and probably physically quite strong.' Genome analysis found the people to be farmers of the Yamnya people and the research claims the Corded Ware people may have been to blame. Yamnaya people interbred with the Corded Ware people, who made the pictured pottery, in central Europe DNA evidence from several prehistoric burial sites has revealed hoards of these tall, muscular and violent warriors would overwhelm other societies on horseback. They started in the European steppe and ended up conquering most of Europe WHO WERE THE GLOBULAR AMPHORA PEOPLE? The globular Amphora people lived between 3400 and 2800 BC in central Europe. They existed at the same time as the Corded Ware people and the Yamnaya. They were farmers by trade, raiding livestock - especially pigs. The settlements they lived in may have been small, rudimentary and temporary, researchers have found. The culture had impressive burials, with large pits and gifts to accompany the dead. These would often include animal remains and sacrifices. It shared DNA with the Corded Ware society which was thriving and expanding rapidly across Europe. These people also bred and mingled with the invading Yamnaya from the west, who were ruthlessly efficient muscular killers that swept across the continent. Advertisement The tragic burial site of 15 people is strangely lacking adult men and experts believe the innocents were murdered while the men were away from the settlement, potentially at a hunt A controversial study from 2017 also claimed the burial rituals of the men and women differed in societies after the Yamnaya had invaded and succeeded. The men maintained their burial traditions while women were buried in the traditional ways of their local civilisation. This, some say, indicates the Yamnaya invade, massacred all the males and impregnated the women in order to rapidly further their bloodlines. Such aggressive and murderous behaviour would have inevitably caused some consternation among Neolithic societies struggling to hold back the powerful Yamnaya. Evidence of a fightback against the brutal folk comes from an archaeological site in Germany called Eulau. Here, graves were found where large amounts of women and children were buried together. Isotope analysis of the adults' teeth revealed they were in fact not local to the area and grew up elsewhere before moving to the region - likely women captured by the Yamnaya. Of the 13 bodies at the site, five suffered injuries which were likely the cause f their death and experts claim this is evidence they were ambushed and massacred by rival tribes in a revenge attack. The men of the tribe were likely away from the site at the time tending to the cattle when the raid was launched, leaving the women and children defenceless. Eulau is an example of a fightback from scorned locals, but experts caution that it was likely an anomaly. The fossil of a newly discovered dinosaur adds further evidence to the theory that there was once a species with bat-like wings living 163 million years ago. Scientists have found remains of a dinosaur, named Ambopteryx longibrachium, in Liaoning Province, China. Chinese scientists found that the magpie-sized therapod had a long wrist bone that likely supported membranous wings, which may have allowed it to glide between trees. The discovery of the unusual wing has only been seen once among theropods, a dinosaur characterised by their three-toed limbs. A previous specimen, also found in China, was described by scientists in 2015 and named Yi qi, after the Mandarin for 'strange wing'. Scroll down for video The fossil of a dinosaur with bat-like wings is further proof that the species closely-related to birds experimented with different wing structures. Thought to date back to around 160 million years ago, the specimen was found in in Liaoning Province, China in 2015 It also had a long wrist-rod that likely supported a leathery membrane. The latest fossils show that, as they were beginning to fly, dinosaurs closely related to birds were experimenting with a range of different wing structures. Named Ambopteryx longibrachium, it sheds fresh light on the evolution of flight - and adds to evidence that birds are living ancestors of the prehistoric reptiles. The newly identified species belonged to a group called the scansoriopterygids - tree climbers with very long hands and fingers. About the size of a magpie, it weighed about 11 ounces (306 grams) and spent most of its time in trees - or gliding between them. It would have swooped down on frogs, lizards and rats scurrying around the undergrowth. Previously these dinosaurs were only thought to have eaten plants. The small family of dinosaurs are generally reconstructed as feathered tree climbers, with very long hands and fingers. But further research showed that the fossils had membranous wings and a styliform, which was a long, pointed wrist bone. Chinese scientists found that the small creatures, weighing just 200 grams, had what appeared to be bat-like, membrane wings. The discovery was something previously unknown among theropods Mounting evidence of feathered non-avian dinosaurs has enabled the slow piecing together of the origins of avian flight. Named Ambopteryx longibrachium, it sheds fresh light on the evolution of flight - and adds to evidence that birds are living ancestors of prehistoric reptiles This flight apparatus that was previously unknown among theropods but that is used by both the pterosaur and bat lineages. The scientists say that this probably demonstrates a short-lived experimentation with flight, before feathered wings became dominant. Doctor Min Wang of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, said scansoriopterygids had said short skulls with large front teeth. Dr Wang said: 'Considering the unusual dental morphology of the scansoriopterygid clade, we suggest this group may have been omnivorous.' This flight apparatus that was previously unknown among theropods but that is used by both the pterosaur and bat lineages The scientists say that this probably demonstrates a short-lived experimentation with flight, before feathered wings became dominant This means it would have eaten foliage and prehistoric animals that had evolved in the area - now known as Liaoning province in north eastern China. They believe the membrane wings and long forelimbs of scansoriopterygids represent a short-lived experimentation with flight. That would have occurred before the later predominance of feathered wings. Ambopteryx was related to a similar dinosaur named Yi Qi - found by a farmer in China in 2007. They were also members of the theropods - which included T Rex. Dr Wang said: 'Powered flight evolved independently in vertebrates in the pterosaurs, birds and bats, each of which has a different configuration of the bony elements and epidermal structures that form the wings.' The research is published in the journal Nature. The U.S. says it will have the world's fastest supercomputer ready in just two years. The U.S. Department of Energy says it has signed a contract with Cray Inc. and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) to build a machine called Frontier, capable of computing at 1.5 exaflops -- a level 50 times faster than current supercomputers. The department says its endeavor, which entails a $600 million investment for the development of technology and systems, will help yield new advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and more. Frontier will take computers U.S. computers into the exascale, and will be as powerful as the next 160 fastest supercomputers combined 'Frontiers record-breaking performance will ensure our countrys ability to lead the world in science that improves the lives and economic prosperity of all Americans and the entire world,' said U.S. Secretary of Energy, Rick Perry. 'Frontier will accelerate innovation in AI by giving American researchers world-class data and computing resources to ensure the next great inventions are made in the United States.' According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Frontier, which will be housed at a laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, will be able to exceed one quintillion calculations per second, as reported by The Verge -- that's as much processing power as the next 160 fastest supercomputer combined, said AMD. This scale of computing power is useful for complex modeling that could help predict natural disasters, climate change, even deliver complex medical diagnoses. While Frontier may be the world's fastest supercomptuer once its built, China is also in the process of developing its own competitor capable of operating at an exascale, which it plans to have ready a year earlier than Frontier. China also outpaces the U.S. in number of supercomputers, with with 227 of the world's fastest computers compared to America's 109 according to The Verge. As the project to build Frontier gets underway, the U.S. and Intel are also in the midst of developing another supercomputer called Aurora that will be capable of operating at an exascale. Spectrum is currently the world's fastest supercomputer, capable of handling 200,000 trillion calculations per second That machine is slated to be finished in 2021 and is being developed in Argonne National Laboratory in Chicago. Both supercomputers will follow up a the previous record-setting computer, Summit, which was released by the U.S. Department of Energy last year. Outside of traditional computing, scientists and physicists have been attempting to pioneer new fronts that they hope will pave the way for advances in the future -- to do this, researchers have turned to the world of quantum physics. Quantum computing as it's called uses a rule of quantum physics called 'superposition' which means that a particle can be in two states at once. This means, instead of a traditional binary bit, which cane either be a one or a zero, a quantum bit, or qubit, could be both a one and a zero, therefore exponentially widening the number of calculations capable per second. The technology, which is still mostly in its theoretical stages, has seen increasing interest from some of the biggest tech firms throughout the past several years, including Intel and Google. A richly decorated room at a palatial complex in Rome that belonged to Emperor Nero has been rediscovered for the first time in 2,000 years. Archaeologists accessed the room of the Domus Aurea and found its walls adorned with panthers, centaurs and a mythical sphinx. Experts chanced upon the room of the 'Golden House' which is currently half exposed, with the bottom section still buried underneath two millennia of sediment. Emperor Nero killed himself at the age of 30 after he was accused of initiating the Great Fire of Rome to build his enormous palace. Scroll down for video Archaeologists accessed the room of the Domus Aurea and found its walls adorned with panthers, centaurs (pictured) and a mythical sphinx. Various floral patterns were also found in the room. The full room will not be unveiled due to concerns about its structural integrity Small figures are bordered in red and yellow on the walls, with a white background. One scene shows the god Pan, another a man armed with a sword, quiver of arrows and a shield fighting a panther while the sphinx image shows it on a pedestal. There are also aquatic creatures, both real and imagined, architectural motifs of the time, vegetal garlands and branches of trees with delicate green, yellow and red leaves. 'It is the fruit of our strategy that focuses on conservation and scientific research,' said Alfonsina Russo, the head of the Colosseum archaeological park that the Domus Aurea belongs to. Small figures are bordered in red and yellow on the walls, with a white background. One scene shows the god Pan, another a man armed with a sword, quiver of arrows and a shield fighting a panther while the sphinx image shows it on a pedestal There are also aquatic creatures, both real and imagined, architectural motifs of the time, vegetal garlands and branches of trees with delicate green, yellow and red leaves The discovery was made last year made thanks to a platform erected to restore the vault of another room of the sprawling and sumptuous complex. The house was built by the controversial emperor in 64AD after a huge fire devastated Rome 'It is an exceptional and thrilling find.' The discovery was made last year made thanks to a platform erected to restore the vault of another room of the sprawling and sumptuous complex. The house was built by the controversial emperor in 64AD after a huge fire devastated Rome. 'We came across a large opening positioned in the northern corner of the covering of the room,' said Alessandro D'Alessio, the official in charge of the Domus Aurea. 'Lit up by the artificial light, there suddenly appeared the entire barrel vault of a completely frescoed adjacent room', he said. The rectangular room is still largely hidden after Emperor Trajan buried the room and built luxurious baths over Nero's former palace, archaeologists said. There are no plans to excavate the rest of the room for fear of its structural integrity. WHO WAS EMPEROR NERO? He was the last Roman emperor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty and became the heir to the estate of Claudius, his great-uncle. He became emperor in suspect circumstances, as his mother is believed to have been involved in the death of Claudius. She then dominated his early life until he cast her aside. Five years after he ascended to emperor he had her executed. He ruled from between 54 and 68AD and died aged 30 after becoming the first Roman Emperor to commit suicide. He was driven to taking his own life after he was condemned to death as a public enemy. It is thought he was responsible for the Great Fire of Rome and blamed it on Christians. Advertisement A fossil thought to be the direct ancestor to the Homo genus has been all but ruled out by scientists who say the statistical probability of a match is 'close to zero.' The analysis, published this week in Science Advances by paleontologists from the University of Chicago, focuses in on a fossil called Australopithecus sediba, which was discovered inside a cave near Johannesburg eight years ago. Because of its physical characteristics, which include a human-like pelvis, face, and teeth, researchers proposed that A. sediba was the direct ancestor of Homo erectus, the first of the Homo genus from which modern day humans are derived. A new study says it has ruled out a link between the fossil Australopithecus sediba and humans. Fossil casts of Australopithecus afarensis (left), Homo habilis (center), and Australopithecus sediba (right) HOW DOES A. SEDIBA FIT INTO HISTORY? The first A. Sediba fossil was found in 2008 in a cave outside of Johannesburg. The specimen was encased in stone -- researchers posit that millions of years ago, a mother and her child fell into a fissure where they were washed by a rainstorm into a pool and immortalized into the rock. A skeleton of A. sediba share striking similarities to humans including similar teeth, faces, and bone structure. The problem, says a new study, is that it would postdate previous understanding of human relatives by 800,000 years. As a result, the experts say it is highly unlikely that the specimen can rightfully displace other ancestors which date back as far as 3 million years. Advertisement The assertions were significant for their implications on the timetable of the human genus, particularly the fact that A. sediba would push the previously understood timeline of direct human descendants forward by 800,000 years. 'What is remarkable about Australopithecus sediba is that, as a field, it is a discovery we never thought would be made: a bona fide transitional species,' Lee Berger, a palaeoanthropologist at the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg told The Guardian following the release of the study in 2011. It's because of that dramatic shift in timeline that researchers say A. sediba is most likely not our direct relative. 'It is definitely possible for an ancestor's fossil to postdate a descendant's by a large amount of time,' said the study's lead author Andrew Du, PhD. 'We thought we would take it one step further to ask how likely it is to happen, and our models show that the probability is next to zero.' The researchers note that the link is not altogether impossible -- in the past, discoveries have reset the chronology of humans by sizable margins. In 2017, a fossil discovery In Africa revealed that modern humans roamed the Earth about 100,000 years earlier than previously thought. This, note researchers, is still drastically lower than the 800,000 years projected by A. sediba. 'We see that it's possible for an ancestor's fossil to postdate its descendant's,' Du said. 'But 800,000 years is quite a long time.' Previous discoveries have upended the understanding of when humans roamed the Earth, setting it back 100,000 years. An illustration of human evolution is shown In place of A. sediba, researchers say that Australopithecus afarensisis, known from the famous 'Lucy' fossil discovered in 1974, is still the most likely direct ancestor to humans. The Lucy fossils as they're known, are dated about 3 million years ago. 'Given the timing, geography and morphology, these three pieces of evidence make us think afarensisis a better candidate than sediba,' said Zeray Alemseged, PhD, the Donald M. Pritzker Professor of Organismal and Biology and Anatomy at UChicago. 'One can disagree about morphology and the different features of a fossil, but the level of confidence we can put in the mathematical and statistical analyses of the chronological data in this paper makes our argument a very strong one.' As Google launches a new smart display with face-tracking cameras, it wants users to know it takes their privacy and security seriously. The search giant published an extensive document on Tuesday that serves as a privacy doctrine, laying out Google's approach to managing user data that it collects from devices in the home. In it, Google breaks down how its devices collect data and pledges to be more transparent about how users can control what information is stored about them. With the Home Hub, Google has added a sensor-embedded camera that powers Face Match, a new feature that's opt-in only and serves up personalized information when certain users walk in front of the device. Scroll down for video As Google launches a new smart display with face-tracking cameras, it wants users to know it takes their privacy and security seriously, by publishing a doctrine around handling user data It also enables gesture controls, like the ability for users to pause and restart their music by lifting up a hand in front of the camera. Google is no stranger to privacy issues surrounding its home devices. Earlier this year, Nest was forced to apologize to users after it was revealed that the smart alarm system had a microphone embedded inside without users' knowledge. Now, it's working to regain user trust with a new set of privacy principles. 'We recognize that technology in the home presents special challenges,' Google wrote. 'Evolving innovations like ambient sensors and voice assistants make the home more helpful, but they also raise fair and personal questions about privacy.' As part of the launch of its new smart display, Google revealed that its smart home team would be merging with Nest, the company it acquired in 2014 that makes smart thermometers, security cameras and other IoT gadgets for the home. The combined teams will now be known as Google Nest, Google announced at I/O. With the launch of the Nest Hub, Google emphasized that the face-tracking camera can be turned off at any time, using a switch (pictured). A green light indicates when it's turned on This means that Nest customers will be asked to switch their accounts over to Google accounts, giving the company access to all sorts of data, such as security camera video recordings - a demand that's likely to raise some privacy concerns. With the new privacy commitment, Google wants to reassure its users that this data won't be fair game for advertisers. 'We commit to you that for all our connected home devices and services, we will keep your video footage, audio recordings, and home environment sensor readings separate from advertising, and we won't use this data for ad personalization,' the firm explained. Not all data will be safe from targeting, however, as Google cautions that interactions with Assistant may still be used for ad personalization. Throughout the rest of the document, Google details how the data collected from cameras, microphones and sensors of its smart home devices will be used. The firm explains that its devices will only record video or audio when the camera or microphone is turned on. Additionally, footage or recordings collected by the device can be accessed, reviewed and deleted at any time and it will only be shared with third-party apps for the purpose of providing 'a helpful experience.' The Nest Hub Max is likely to raise some privacy concerns, due to the face-tracking camera. This enables features like gesture control, letting users pause their music by holding up a hand Google also promises that it will use a green light to indicate when the camera is turned on, thereby avoiding the controversy that arose with the ill-fated Google Glass, which often angered passersby due to its inconspicuous recording mechanism. 'We want you, your family, and your guests to feel comfortable using these devices and services, since their purpose is to help and to provide peace of mind,' Google explained. 'We also recognize that were a guest in your home, and we respect and appreciate that invitation. 'Technology in the home is dynamic and evolving, so well approach our work with humility, a commitment to seeking out many points of view, and an eagerness to learn and adapt,' the firm added. Millions of schoolchildren are being poisoned by pollution every day, analysis has shown. About 6,500 nursery, primary and secondary schools with a total of 2.6million children are in areas where levels of toxic particles exceed the World Health Organisation's recommended limit. The fine particles tested, known as PM2.5, are the most dangerous form of air pollution and can get into the lungs and into the blood stream. About 6,500 nursery, primary and secondary schools with a total of 2.6million children are in areas where levels of toxic particles exceed the World Health Organisation's recommended limit (file photo) Research by The Times using data from the London Atmospheric Emissions Inventory found that every school in the capital is over the WHO limit of 10mg per cubic metre, along with 234 in Birmingham. Leicester and Nottingham each have dangerous levels affecting more than 100 schools. The revelations come days after Rosamund Kissi-Debrah from south London won her fight for a new inquest into the death of her daughter, Ella. She says the nine-year-old asthma sufferer's death in 2013 was caused by toxic fumes from a busy road near their home in Hither Green. Air pollution is thought to contribute to 40,000 early deaths a year, and is particularly dangerous for the young, the elderly and those with lung conditions. The revelations come days after Rosamund Kissi-Debrah from south London won her fight for a new inquest into the death of her daughter, Ella, pictured. She says the nine-year-old asthma sufferer's death in 2013 was caused by toxic fumes from a busy road near their home Jonathan Grigg, professor of paediatric respiratory medicine at Queen Mary University of London, told The Times that children exposed to toxic air suffer 'reduced lung function growth, increased risk of serious lung infections, and increased risk of developing life-long asthma'. Environment Secretary Michael Gove said the WHO had described the Government's clean air strategy outlined in January as a model for other countries to follow. He admitted the Government wanted to be 'more ambitious' but stressed: 'One of the things that makes it difficult for people to plan the people with whom we need to work in industry and local government is if they feel that there is a constantly revised and constantly changing set of targets.' London Irish fans have claimed they will not attend matches after the club announced the signing of Irish fly-half Paddy Jackson, who was acquitted of rape a year ago. The 27-year-old will join the newly-promoted side next season from Perpignan. Jackson was sacked by the Irish RFU in the wake of his trial - he was proven not guilty but the union took a dim view of misogynistic messages sent between Jackson and two other defendants. London Irish have been criticised for signing former Ireland fly-half Paddy Jackson And now Jackson is to join the Exiles, with some fans supporting the acquisition of a player who has won 25 caps for his country, while plenty were furious and used the #IBelieveHer hashtag which went viral during the trial last year. One fan called Kate Boulton wrote: 'As a patron member I am disgusted and so disappointed. Our team is a model of diversity and this signing goes against our values and principles. Very unlikely to renew my season ticket.' Jackson was acquitted after trial for rape a year ago and was sacked by the Irish RFU Another, Gary O'Reilly said: 'I was looking forward to bringing my two-year-old daughter to a few games in the future. I will never even watch a game on TV again. What is God's name is going on you thought this was an appropriate signing.' Jackson declared himself 'delighted' with the move. 'London Irish have a clear vision for where they want to be and I look forward to being part of it.' London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney said: 'Players of the calibre of Paddy Jackson do not become available very often.' Advertisement Holidaymakers will soon be able to set sail on a 500ft mega yacht that boasts a helicopter, a seaplane, an in-ocean swimming pool and outdoor beds for sleeping beneath the stars. Norwegian-based cruise company SeaDream Yacht Club is expanding its fleet with the SeaDream Innovation, which it says is 'a new, revolutionary yacht, which will introduce the concept of global yachting'. Incredible renderings show how the mega yacht - which will weigh 15,600 gross tons and boast 110 ocean-view suites - will have nine decks and be packed with features. Tickets for the maiden voyage will start at 32,000. Norwegian-based cruise company SeaDream Yacht Club is expanding its fleet with the SeaDream Innovation mega yacht, pictured Sea Dream Innovation, which is 500ft long and currently being built, boasts an in-ocean swimming pool and outdoor beds beneath the stars SeaDream Innovation will commence sailing in September 2021. In its first year it will sail to all seven continents A rendering showing what one of the ocean-view suites will look like. The liner will have a one-to-one guest-to-crew ratio The accommodation is top notch, as you might expect. It includes open-air 'Balinese Dream Beds', allowing up to 40 guests to sleep outside and watch starry skies as the vessel sails (weather permitting, obviously). They come complete with heated blankets so guests don't get too chilly. Water activities that guests can take part in on voyages include kayaking and sailboat excursions. SeaDream Innovation will weigh 15,600 gross tons and comes complete with 110 ocean-view suites The accommodation includes 'Balinese Dream Beds', which will allow, weather permitting, duvet-based star gazing SeaDream Yacht Club says the new vessel is 'a new, revolutionary yacht, which will introduce the concept of global yachting' Most meals are served in an open-air restaurant with striking views - and there is a one-to-one guest-to-crew ratio. The helicopter will be housed in a hanger at the front of the yacht while the seaplane will, MailOnline Travel understands, be parked on top of the ship - presumably hoisted up there via a crane. SeaDream Yacht Club was unable to provide any details. Atle Brynestad, owner, chairman and CEO of SeaDream Yacht Club, said: 'This project has been a dream of mine for many years. 'It has been a true labour of love to meticulously design every aspect of this yacht, from the interiors and facilities to the itineraries.' SeaDream Innovation will commence sailing in September 2021. In its first year, it will sail to all seven continents, visiting over 200 ports in 49 countries. SeaDream Innovation will sail to some of the worlds most remote and unique destinations. Its inaugural 70-day voyage will be from London to Ushuaia, Argentina Atle Brynestad, owner, chairman and CEO of SeaDream Yacht Club, said: 'It has been a true labour of love to meticulously design every aspect of this yacht, from the interiors and facilities to the itineraries' Guests will explore the worlds most remote and unique destinations, including Svalbard, the Northwest Passage, Antarctica, the fjords of Norway, Japan, New Zealand, the Fiji Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Its inaugural 70-day voyage will be from London to Ushuaia, Argentina, with the cheapest ticket starting at 32,306 rising to 90,000 for a top suite. Highlights include visits to Cuba, Belize City, the Panama Canal transit, exploration of Peru and Chile and an eight-day Antarctica expedition. Nova's Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli and wife Lisa have listed their charming Queens Park semi-detached home for auction. The couple, who have been married since 2013, are wanting a cool $2.5 million for the Sydney home. According to Domain, the pair are wanting to 'upgrade' their family home and have been looking at areas in the eastern suburbs, including Bellevue Hill, Vaucluse and Paddington. Moving on up! Nova's Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli and wife Lisa list their charming Queens Park semi-detached pad (pictured) for auction for a cool $2.5 million The publication reports that the auction will take place in early June. The pair snapped up the 1920s property in 2014 for $1.87 million. With a character-filled facade, the home has been recently renovated and features four bedrooms and two bathrooms. It also has a modern white kitchen, hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, a lavish outdoor entertaining area. Moving on: The publication reports that the auction will take place in early June, with the pair (pictured) having snapped up the 1920s property in 2014 for $1.87 million Quaint: With a character-filled facade, the home has been recently renovated and features four bedrooms and two bathrooms Stunning: It has a modern white kitchen, hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, a lavish outdoor entertaining area The home is just minutes away from Sydney's Centennial Park and a short walk from Bondi Junction's train station. Michael and Lisa met at the Nova studios in Sydney and Michael, 39, said that it was love at first sight for the pair. Speaking to New Idea in November last year, he recalled: 'I was ordering a chicken wrap downstairs and she was getting a sandwich and our eyes connected.' Location, location! The home is just minutes away from Sydney's Centennial Park and a short walk from Bondi Junction's train station 'I looked at the sandwich, looked back at her, she looked back at the sandwich, then at me and it was like "oh my God, do we just love food or do we love each other?"' He added that once they were back in the office, he was desperate to try and talk to her. 'I'd walk the long way from the studio past her desk and there were a couple of comments made that I was wearing out the carpet in front of her desk,' he said. The pair now share two young sons together, Ted, four, and Jack, two. King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) is acting for Dexus in securing funding for a major purchase in the Melbourne CBD. The legal giant advised the Australian real estate investment trust in its $900m fully underwritten institutional placement, which completed earlier this month and started trading Wednesday on the ASX. KWM is also acting on the companys security purchase plan, which is expected to raise a further $50m from qualified security holders in Australia and New Zealand. Feminist academic Dr. Susan Carland converted to Islam from Christianity at age 19, despite once believing the religion was 'barbaric, outdated and sexist'. And in the spirit of Ramadan, the 40-year-old university lecturer shared a post to Instagram on Wednesday about the surprising links between Christianity and Islam. Susan, who is married to The Project host Waleed Aly, shared a list of prophets who appear in both the Holy Bible and the Quran. Surprising link: In the spirit of Ramadan, Dr Susan Carland revealed the links between Christianity and Islam on Wednesday. Pictured at the Australian High Commission's Buka Puasa (breaking of the fast dinner) in 2014 'The first prophet of Islam is Adam - yup, the same one in the Bible,' Susan wrote in the thought-provoking post. 'Muslims also believe in Noah, Moses, David, Solomon, Jonah, John, and many other biblical prophets, and their stories appear in the Qur'an.' She added the hashtag, '#ThingsYouMayNotKnowAboutIslam.' Fun fact: Susan shared a list of prophets who appear in both the Holy Bible and the Quran In 2016, Melbourne-born Susan recalled the life-changing moment she began to question her Christian upbringing at age 17. 'Was it because I genuinely believed it to be true or was it because it was what I was raised to believe?' she told The Australian Women's Weekly. She decided to research other religions and did not immediately connect with Islam. 'I thought, why would anyone want to be part of a barbaric, outdated, sexist religion?' she said candidly. Muslim power couple: Melbourne-based academic Susan is married to The Project's Waleed Aly (left) and they share two children, Aisha 14, and Zayd, 10. Pictured in February 2019 The mother-of-two was later drawn to Islam's 'emphasis on social justice' and converted to the religion two years later, despite her mother's 'hesitations'. It comes after the Monash University academic made attempts to unite the Melbourne community in March, following the deadly terror attacks in Christchurch. Susan attended a mosque open day at Benevolence Australia in Melbourne, where people of all faiths were invited. Convert: At age 19, Susan was drawn to Islam's 'emphasis on social justice' when she converted to the religion, despite her mother's 'hesitations' On its website, Benevolence is described as 'a welcoming and inclusive space for spiritual growth'. According to an official Facebook account, this year's mosque open day at Benevolence was designed 'to provide a space for the Muslim community to gather together in this time of grief, and offer an opportunity for the wider community to engage in conversation on anything of topical interest, including themes of faith and contemporary issues, to unite and strengthen our shared humanity.' Susan previously shared her views on body image during a discussion about the hijab. Using her platform: It comes after Susan attended a mosque open day at Benevolence Australia in Melbourne back in March, following the Christchurch terror attacks. Pictured right: Benevolence founding director Saara Sabbagh 'There are some women who say [wearing the hijab] is a feminist statement,' she told Meshel Laurie on The Nitty Gritty Committee podcast. 'In a society where women's bodies are used to sell everything from toothpaste to cars, [for those women] covering [their] body is about saying, "I'll decide who sees my body".' She continued: 'And what parts they get to see by wearing a hijab and covering my body, I'm choosing to not have my body commodified in that way.' Jessica Chastain is calling out Game of Thrones writers for a controversial scene in Sunday night's episode involving Sophie Turner's Sansa Stark. The scene in question featured a reunion between Sansa and The Hound (Rory McCann), who tells her that none of the bad things that happened to her, would have happened if she left with him early on in the series. Sansa responds by telling him she would have 'stayed a little bird all my life,' if those things never happened to her, including her gruesome wedding day rape by her then husband Ramsay Bolton (Iwan Rheon), which many have denounced, including Chastain. Calling out: Jessica Chastain is calling out Game of Thrones writers for a controversial scene in Sunday night's episode involving Sophie Turner's Sansa Stark No butterfly: 'Rape is not a tool to make a character stronger,' Chastain began. 'A woman doesnt need to be victimized in order to become a butterfly' 'Rape is not a tool to make a character stronger,' Chastain began. 'A woman doesnt need to be victimized in order to become a butterfly.' The #LittleBird was always a Phoenix,' she continued, in what may have been an homage to the film she stars in with Sophie Turner, X-Men: Dark Phoenix, where Turner plays the Dark Phoenix. 'Her prevailing strength is solely because of her. And her alone. #GameOfThrones,' Chastain concluded, while including a GIF of Turner on the Iron Throne. Little Bird: The #LittleBird was always a Phoenix,' she continued, in what may have been an homage to the film she stars in with Sophie Turner, X-Men: Dark Phoenix, where Turner plays the Dark Phoenix Sophie Turner's Sansa Stark is one of the few characters to have survived all the way from the pilot episode in the first season through this final season. Her character arc is also one of the most brutal on the entire series, having been manipulated by Petyr 'Littlefinger' Baelish (Aiden Gillan), married off to the nefarious King Joffrey Baratheon (Jack Gleeson) and later forcefully married to Ramsay Bolton. Her wedding night rape by Bolton in the sixth episode of Season 5, titled (ironically) Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken, continues to be one of the show's most enduring controversies. Sansa the survivor: Sophie Turner's Sansa Stark is one of the few characters to have survived all the way from the pilot episode in the first season through this final season Speaking out: Chastain was definitely not alone in voicing these rape concerns on Twitter, with several women speaking out shortly after the episode aired on Sunday Chastain was definitely not alone in voicing these rape concerns on Twitter, with several women speaking out shortly after the episode aired on Sunday. 'I still love #GameOfThrones but this show proves over and over again they have no idea how to write about rape,' said Australian reporter Alex Bruce-Smith. 'Sansa just shrugging off what happened to her by saying she's stronger for it?? do any women write for this show, or...?' she added. Sansa concerns: Chastain was definitely not alone in voicing these rape concerns on Twitter, with several women speaking out shortly after the episode aired on Sunday. Another fan, Amy Collier, added, 'Sansa didn't need to go through all that trauma to become a powerful, intelligent person, and the show implying she did is just...ugh.' Writer Alanna Bennett added, 'Remember when Sansa was like "you know, it actually was a good thing I got raped and otherwise assaulted and abused all those times, bc now I am a Strong Woman." Interesting. #GameofThrones.' There are just two episodes of Game of Thrones left, with the fifth episode airing Sunday, May 12 and the sixth and final episode debuting Sunday, May 19 on HBO. Sansa's strength: Another fan, Amy Collier, added, 'Sansa didn't need to go through all that trauma to become a powerful, intelligent person, and the show implying she did is just...ugh' Sansa: Writer Alanna Bennett added, 'Remember when Sansa was like "you know, it actually was a good thing I got raped and otherwise assaulted and abused all those times, bc now I am a Strong Woman." Interesting. #GameofThrones' More statements: More fans chimed in on Sansa's reunion scene with The Hound Jason Manford has revealed his battle with anxiety and depression following a recent health scare. In a candid clip posted to Facebook on Tuesday, the 37-year-old comedian detailed his struggles with mental health as he bravely advised men to speak out on the topic. The Bigheads presenter opened the video by explaining the reason behind his social media hiatus: 'At the beginning of the year I had a bit of a health scare and, I wouldn't go as far to say I had a breakdown, but I had a struggle mentally and I found it very difficult to deal with.' Candid: Jason Manford has revealed his battle with anxiety and depression following a recent health scare In February, the father-of-five sparked concern among fans when he shared a snap from a hospital bed following a mystery procedure. While he returned to work just weeks after his surgery, the Manchester native admitted he still battles with his psychological state following his health scare. Jason, who shares his four eldest children with ex Catherine, and his youngest with wife Lucy Dyke, said: 'I had a few weeks off from my tour and then I cracked on and got through it. 'I just wanted to say it's taken me this long to be brave enough to say it really, because I've been struggling, finding things hard and I think social media can sometimes really not help with that. Brave: In a candid clip posted to Facebook on Tuesday, the 37-year-old comedian detailed his struggles with mental health as he bravely advised men to speak out on the topic (pictured at The Olivier Awards in April) Hospitalisation: In February, the father-of-five sparked concern among fans when he shared a snap from a hospital bed following a mystery procedure 'I've been struggling, finding things hard': While he returned to work just weeks after his surgery, the Manchester native admitted he still battles with his psychological state following his health scare 'I'm not just talking about trolls and people being nasty, I mean that's sort of just par for the course. Even just bad news, nastiness and world events, and people arguing about whatever the topic of the day is even down to comparing your life.' Further into the video, the 8 Out of 10 Cats star encouraged men to speak out about mental health: 'We don't talk about mental health a lot, especially us blokes. The biggest killer in men under 65 is suicide.' He went on to advise: 'I just want to say some things that helped me... your problems are the worst problems in the world [to you]. You can only feel your problems. Some people are in worse situations with you, but you can only sympathise with them. You're doing OK.' 'We don't talk about mental health a lot, especially us blokes': Further into the video, the 8 Out of 10 Cats star encouraged men to speak out about mental health Reflecting on the 'worst and lowest' moments in his life, Jason added: I felt I let my kids down and couldn't do my job anymore. I suffer from anxiety and depression, and they're not traditional topics for comedians to talk about. 'It's really hard sometimes, and then I think how dare you with your lovely life feel bad... Like I said your problems are relative.' 'The advice that gets me through to this day is, just because you're struggling, doesn't mean you're failing', the radio host concluded his clip. 'I felt I let my kids down and couldn't do my job anymore': Jason reflected on the 'worst and lowest' moments in his life in the video Jason, grew up on Manchester's self-styled 'triangle of death' - an area notorious for drug related crime, rose to prominence as a team captain on 8 Out of 10 Cats from 2007 till 2010. The TV personality has since gone on to carve out a successful career in presenting, acting and stand-up comedy, having starred in shows such as Sunday Night at the Palladium, Bigheads and QI. He's set to join the likes of Catherine Tyldesley and Claire Sweeney in upcoming six-part BBC series Scarborough later this year. If you have been affected by this story, and are in the UK, call The Samaritans at any time, from any phone for FREE, on 116 123 or call Mind's Infoline from Monday to Friday on 03001233393 or text 86463. Emily Ratajkowski bared it all in an intricate Cher-inspired number at the Met Gala Monday night. But it wasn't just her body that she gave fans a good look at. A day after the glamorous Upper East Side event, the 27-year-old supermodel took to Instagram to give followers an inside look at what the Met Gala is really all about. Dare to bare! Emily Ratajkowski didn't exactly win over fashion critics with her incredibly risque show at the Met Gala on Monday Emily's paired her barely there dress with incredibly over-the-top, scene-stealing headdress that featured two feather wings, which served as a frame for the brunette beauty's face. Regardless, the 27-year-old seemed incredibly at ease in front of the cameras, and took to Instagram Tuesday to share just how much time goes into even a losing look an inside look at the Met Gala. From fittings to facials, the London born model shared every step of her day. In one of the behind-the-scenes snaps, Emily covered her bare chest with her hands as a hair stylist brushed through her curly hair. First things first: If the dress doesn't fit, you must sew it Step 1: The actress started the Met prep off with a facial to make sure the canvas for her makeup was fresh and clean 'Body lotion plus hair brush out before I put on the rest of the dress on & headpiece,' she wrote in bold font inside the photo. She also shared moments from her fitting, which occurred just one day before the special event. The June baby then made sure her makeup canvas was fresh and clean with a facial from Dr. Barbara Sturm. Anything but clothes: The model posted a photo of the dress resting on her bed before its big night out with the caption, 'laying out the dress because it couldn't be hung' She also showed off her stunning dress, which was so delicate it had to be laid out on a bed because it 'couldn't be hung.' Emily also put her freshly painted rainbow manicure on display. The actress sat still as a stylist applied a vibrant palette of polish onto her nails. Nails by not me: @nailsbymei worked her magic from the comfort of Emily's hotel room Inspiration: The 27-year-old's look was inspired by music icon Cher The Met Gala is the annual fundraiser for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute and is the most glittery and exclusive event on the New York fashion calendar. It's famous for attracting luminaries of Hollywood, of fashion, music, sports, TV and the stage for an evening of fashion and charity to mark the museum's spring exhibit. This year, the exhibit and gala are dedicated to the idea of 'camp,' as defined by Susan Sontag's 1964 essay Notes on 'Camp.' He's currently behind bars for racketeering among other crimes. And on the eve of Tekashi69's 23rd birthday, his girlfriend Jade confirmed she was sticking by him through thick and thin. Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, the 22-year-old showcased her new large upper left chest tattoo of his face. Scroll down for video The things you do for love: Tekashi 6ix9ine's girlfriend, Jade, revealed she would be sticking by him through thick and thin on Tuesday, taking to Instagram to debut her new tattoo of his face right above her right breast 'Just got Chris brown tatted s**t crazy,' she captioned the photo. The image saw Jade sporting a form-fitting white top that showcased her ample cleavage. Styling her dark hair back and off her face and shoulders, she ensured all eyes were on her new large ink. With her right side already taken up by his number, '69', the Instagram model opted to place her new tattoo on the left side right above her breasts. Chris Brown or Tekashi? 'Just got Chris brown tatted s**t crazy,' she captioned the photo All for her man: On the left side of Jade's chest is the number '69', the right side now has his face And while her caption mentioned rapper Chris Brown, her tattoo was most definitely the face of her imprisoned boyfriend. Jade, who's also one of the alleged victims in Cardi B's bartender assault case, tagged the tattoo artist as being New York based inker Rotten Apple. However, some of her followers weren't quite impressed with her statement of love. 'Imagine being THIS BAD at making life decisions,' one user wrote. 'I'm personally going to take the opportunity to feel a little better about myself now.' Some of Jade's followers weren't quite impressed with her statement of love, and took to social media to express their dismay at the tatttoo Another follower advised that Jade shouldn't be taking Tekashi's 'prison talk' seriously while one accused her of getting the tattoo for 'clout' 'Wow her skin was flawless look at her stupid tattoos now,' another added. 'She's really going to regret this,' one fan wrote. Another follower advised that Jade shouldn't be taking Tekashi's 'prison talk' seriously. 'You should honestly sue the artist,' added another fan, while one asked if she had gotten her tattoo 'done in a basement party'. 'Alexa play - Stoopid by 69,' quipped another, referring to the Tekashi song and the Amazon Alexa virtual assistant. Back in January, Jade took to Instagram to share the first photo of herself visiting Tekashi, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, in prison. In true style, she opted for a Juicy tracksuit and posed while the rapper squeezed her posterior. 'He's good luv , enjoy (heart emoticon) #FreeDanny,' she captioned. Busting out: The image saw Jade sporting a form-fitting white top that showcased her ample cleavage Color or monochrome? Two pictures of Tekashi was on the chair of the tattoo artist, for inspiration Jade's display of unconditional love comes after the rapper pleaded guilty for various crimes, including racketeering, weapons charges, drug trafficking, and conspiracy. In February, Tekashi struck a plea deal with federal prosecutors, revealing his guilt in a hope to minimize his sentence - which carries a minimum of 47 years. Tekashi admitted to authorities that he had joined the violent New York City group, Nine Trey Blood Gang, in the Fall of 2017. He also confessed to helping members try to kill a rival in March 2018. Reuniting! Back in January, Jade took to Instagram to share the first photo of herself visiting Tekashi in prison. In true style, she opted for a Juicy tracksuit and posed while the rapper squeezed her posterior Sticking by him: Jade's display of unconditional love comes after he pleated guilty for various crimes, including: racketeering, weapons charges, drug trafficking and conspiracy Tekashi also admitted in front of a grand jury to his involvement in the shooting of rival rapper Chief Keef in June 2018. Federal prosecutors have said that the information the rapper has provided may require them to place him under witness protection, since he is believed to have implicated individuals involved in extremely violent crimes. The rapper was ws previously sentenced to probation back in 2015 for appearing in a video in which a 13-year-old girl performed a sex act on another man. Tekashi will be sentenced on Janaury 23, 2020. He is the father to six-year-old daughter Saraiyah with his ex-girlfriend Sara Molina. Jenelle Evans' time on Teen Mom 2 appears to have come to an end thanks to the actions of her husband. The 27-year-old reality star was the center of controversy after her husband David Eason shot and killed their family French Bull Dog. MTV announced on Tuesday that Jenelle would not appear on any upcoming seasons, according to Us Weekly. The end: MTV announced it's dropping Jenelle Evans, 27, from future seasons of Teen Mom 2 after her husband David Eason, 30, shot and killed their family's pet French Bulldog; pictured in 2016 'MTV ended its relationship with David Eason over a year ago in February 2018 and has not filmed any new episodes of Teen Mom 2 with him since,' an MTV spokesperson told Us Weekly. 'Additionally, we have stopped filming with Jenelle Eason as of April 6, 2019 and have no plans to cover her story in the upcoming season.' The network originally kicked Eason off the show following a series of homophobic tweets. Jenelle was subsequently featured less often due to the difficulties of shooting around her husband. The animal cruelty incident led to an advertiser exodus, though it's not clear if the companies will be returning to the series now that Jenelle is out of the picture. Brands including Chipotle, Dove Chocolates, TWIX, Greenies pet treats and Persil ProClean have all withdrawn from the program. Last straw: The network originally kicked Eason off the show following a series of homophobic tweets Rage outburst? Eason admitted Wednesday to murdering the dog, claiming that it bit Ensley Though Jenelle and David share a two-year-old daughter Ensley, and she also shares nine-year-old Jace with Andrew Lewis and four-year-old Kaiser with Nathan Griffin. It was Griffin who revealed Eason's alleged animal cruelty. After hearing that Jenelle's husband had shot their dog, he requested a wellness check on his son, believing that he had been in the house at the time of the shooting, according to TMZ. Eason admitted Wednesday to murdering the dog, claiming that it bit Ensley. He shared a video on social media of the small dog being baited to nip the girl's face. Eason took to his HickTownKing Instagram page and posted the clip showing Nugget on the couch with his daughter Ensley who tries to go in for a kiss. Photos: He also shared a photo of a tearful toddler after the incident with a slight red welt on her cheek, the skin having not been broken by the dogs teeth Instead of intervening between the animal, who is clearly uncomfortable as it cowers and pulls away from the little girl, Eason sits across the room and films the dog nip back at the girls face, causing her to cry. He also shared a photo of a tearful toddler after the incident with a slight red welt on her cheek, the skin having not been broken by the dogs teeth. 'I dont give a d*mn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s*** at all. Im all about protecting my family, it is my lifes mission. Some people are worth killing or dying for and my family means that much to me,' he wrote. 'You can hate me all you want but this isnt the first time the dog bit Ensley aggressively. The only person that can judge whether or not an animal is a danger to MY CHILD is ME.' Not backing down: 'I dont give a damn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s*** at all' According to TMZ, Janelle's friends and family members have called Child Protective Services to have her husband removed from the house. The friends and family are reportedly worried about the three children still living in the home, and there's also concern surrounding Jenelle's pitbull, Jax. Eason has reportedly shot the animal prior with a bb gun, and they worry he may lash out further. So far, law enforcement members have been hesitant to enter Jenelle and David's property due to multiple no trespassing signs and the presence of the pitbull. Concern: In addition to killing the little French Bulldog, Eason has reportedly shot Jenelle's pitbull Jax prior with a bb gun In North Carolina, killing a dog is a Class H Felony under the Animal-Cruelty statute, but officials told TMZ on Wednesday that they will only go after David if Jenelle reports him, something she has so far refused to do. David posted multiple photos of his extensive gun collection, including a screed from December when he criticized President Donald Trump for banning bump stocks, a modification to semi-automatic rifles allowing them to fire faster, mimicking fully automatic weapons. He also mentioned in the post that the secret service had visited him due to his seemingly threatening statements. Hesitant: Police have been hesitant to approach Eason's home due to the family pitbull, his multiple no trespassing signs, and his well-advertised collection of fire arms The horrifying dog murder came six months after Jenelle accused her husband of breaking her collarbone while violently 'pinning her down on the ground.' 'He got violent because he's been drinking,' Evans sobbed to the 911 operator in October. 'I'm recovering from a surgery on Monday. I can't breathe. I have four kids in the house with me right now. They're all sleeping. I don't know what to do. He left the house. I don't know what to do right now.' Jenelle later revealed to E! News that the incident was a 'drunk and dramatic misunderstanding' after David tried to put a stop to a televised pumpkin patch visit with his kids. He's bringing his own vibe to the Disney live action remake of Aladdin. And on Monday night on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, Will Smith gave a taster of what's coming. The actor, who stars as Genie in the Guy Ritchie-helmed movie, rapped his version of 'Friend Like Me' much to the audience's delight. Rapped: He's bringing his own vibe to the Disney live action remake of Aladdin. And Monday night on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon , Will Smith gave a taster of what's to come He explained to Fallon that he had suggested the drum beat from funk band The Honey Drippers 1973 single Impeach The President, at which point Questlove began drumming the pattern he was talking about. Smith then began rapping Friend Like Me. The Hollywood star said that it was because he could bring his own take to the role that he eventually agreed to sign up to play Genie. Back story: He explained to Fallon that he had suggested the drum beat from funk band The Honey Drippers 1973 single Impeach The President Played along: Questlove, from Tonight Show in-house band The Roots, began drumming the pattern Smith was talking about Showman: The actor, who stars as Genie in the Guy Ritchie-helmed movie, rapped his version of 'Friend Like Me' much to the audience's delight At first, he said, he didn't want to touch the part because of Robin Williams's iconic performance in the 1992 animated version of Aladdin. 'Robin Williams smashed that role, you know?' Smith said. 'When you look at things like that you always try to find What would you do differently? What would you add to that?' He explained he started to believe he could bring something distinct to the role of the genie that would make it different from Williams's version and not compete with it. 'It's singing, dancing, rapping - it's everything man,' he enthused. 'It's spectacular.' Aladdin, which also stars Mena Massoud as Aladdin and Naomi Scott as Jasmine, is slated to open in theaters on May 24. John Singleton's seven children are preparing for a legal battle over issues over how his estate - estimated at $35 million - will be divided in the wake of the filmmaker's April 28 death at the age of 51. Singleton, according to TMZ, only drafted one will, in 1993, at which time he only had one child, daughter Justice, 26. The late director's mother, Shelia Ward, who is acting as executor of his estate, filed the will - which earmarked everything for Justice - in probate court Friday. The latest: John Singleton's seven children are preparing for a legal battle over issues over how his estate - estimated at $35 million - will be divided in the wake of the filmmaker's April 28 death at the age of 51. The late director was snapped in LA in 2016 The arrangement was composed in California, where state law could open the door for Singleton's younger six children - who were not born at the time the will was composed - to carve out a piece of the estate, according to the outlet. (The only instance that could potentially exclude them, according to the outlet, was if Singleton would have added a stipulation disowning the yet-to-be-born kids, which he didn't.) Also complicating the transaction is that Ward estimated the Boyz N the Hood filmmaker's total assets at around $3.8 million, which is about $31 million less than his estimated net worth, according to the outlet. One explanation could be that Singleton - who also directed motion pictures including 1993's Poetic Justice, 1995's Higher Learning, 2000's Shaft and 2001's Baby Boy - established a trust that would operate independent of the will, not going through probate court. The finances have caused dissension within the family, according to the outlet, as John's daughter Cleopatra, 21, claimed Ward has sought to eliminate the kids from getting a portion of his estate. Mourning: John's oldest child, daughter Justice, 26, was snapped at his memorial at the Angelus Funeral Home Monday Trying time: Mourners congregated for the filmmaker's memorial on Monday Better times: John and his oldest daughter Justice posed for a selfie in a shot she posted to Instagram Cleopatra disputed Ward's statement that Singleton fell ill in a coma last month, telling The New York Times: 'My father is not in a coma. My father had a stroke on April 17, 2019, and at this point we are optimistic about a full recovery.' She told the newspaper that she and other relatives were working together in opposition of Ward: 'Myself, several of my siblings, and my fathers father will oppose my grandmothers application to be appointed my fathers legal conservator. Singleton's funeral was held in his native South Los Angeles Monday in a ceremony attended by notable names such as Stevie Wonder, Ice Cube, Taraji P. Henson, Ludacris, Tyrese and Congresswoman Maxine Waters, among others. She rose to fame on MasterChef Australia back in 2009, where she placed runner-up on the show after winner Julie Goodwin. And on Tuesday, Poh Ling Yeow sent fans into overdrive as she returned to the hit cooking program to mentor current contestants. Fans flocked to her Instagram page to comment on Poh's short bob, which has left the now 46-year-old looking almost unrecognisable. Scroll down for video Sending fans wild! MasterChef veteran Poh Ling Yeow thrilled viewers when she returned to the hit show with a blunt bob on Tuesday (pictured L, before and R, on Tuesday) Despite Poh having her chic blunt bob for quite some time, it seems fans have only just noticed that she cut her long dark locks. Poh shared to Instagram a video of herself in the MasterChef kitchen, saying she felt 'electric' on set and 'very keen to help [contestants] win the immunity pins.' 'I love your new look, you look stunning,' one fan wrote in response. New look: Despite Poh having her chic blunt bob for quite some time, it seems fans have only just noticed that she cut her long dark locks Loving it: 'I love your new look, you look stunning,' one fan wrote, when Poh posted a video of herself in the MasterChef kitchen Double take: Another added: 'Oh Poh, your short hair looks good, oh had to look twice to double check to see it was u (sic)' Another added: 'Oh Poh, your short hair looks good, oh had to look twice to double check to see it was u (sic).' 'Love you, especially the new haircut,' another fan wrote. Poh rose to fame on MasterChef back in 2009, where she battled Julie Goodwin in the final but placed runner-up. The Australian-Malaysian chef has since gone on to release a series of cook books and even has her own cooking shows on SBS. Back in the day: Poh rose to fame on MasterChef back in 2009, where she battled Julie Goodwin (L) in the final, but placed runner-up This week, Poh told Watch that she almost didn't audition for the show when she wanted to be a contestant, because she was worried about being on TV and how she would be portrayed. Poh said she didn't attend her second audition, saying: 'The producers called me and asked where I was. "Oh, just walking my dogs..." I said.' She said that she told them that she was 'scared.' 'They're very good at the psychology these producers, they told me, "you're not even at the bridge yet, cross it when you get to it. You haven't even done your second audition." Strictly pro Graziano Di Prima got engaged to girlfriend Giada Lini live onstage on Tuesday. The Italian dancer, 25, who joined the show in 2018, popped the question during a performance of Burn The Floor in Watford, with Kevin Clifton among his emotional co-stars watching on. A shirtless Graziano was seen getting down on one knee as a shocked Giada, 28, who is also a dancer on the hit show, covered her face with her hands in delight. Engaged: Strictly pro Graziano Di Prima got engaged to girlfriend Giada Lini live onstage on Tuesday Happy couple: The Italian dancer, 25, who joined the show in 2018, popped the question during a performance of Burn The Floor in Watford, with Kevin Clifton among his emotional co-stars watching on The couple - who have been dating since 2015 - then shared a sweet kiss as Giada accepted his proposal - as their fellow dancers cheered. Giada showed off her stunning frame in a black bra and matching underwear worn with a crisp white shirt as she performed an intimate dance routine with her man before the proposal. The smitten couple were seen staring into one another's eyes as Graziano lifted his love into the air. As well as Kevin, fellow pro Johannes Radebe watched on with delight. Emotional: Kevin Clifton looked emotional as he watched on with fellow Strictly pro Johannes Radebe looking on Cute couple: A shirtless Graziano was seen getting down on one knee as an shocked Giada, 28, who is also a dancer on the hit show, covered her face with her hands in delight My love: The hunk showed off his muscular frame in a a pair of black trousers She said yes! The couple - who have been dating since 2015 - then shared a sweet kiss as Giada accepted his proposal - as their fellow dancers cheered Debut: Graziano made his debut on the 2019 series of Strictly - with DJ Vick Hope It is a double celebration for Graziano, who also turned 25 on Tuesday. Fellow Strictly pro Oti Mabuse, 28, also shared a congratulatory message to Graziano, and posted a photo of the proposal to her Instagram story. His new fiancee posted a sweet snap of the pair kissing to honour his birthday, writing: 'YOU ... never stop making me fall in love with you every day ...! HAPPY BIRTHDAY my little BIG LOVE.' Graziano quickly won a legion of fans when he debuted on the show's 2018 series, where he was partnered with radio DJ Vick Hope. Yay! It is a double celebration for Graziano, who also turned 25 on Tuesday Wow: The star showed off his hunky tattooed frame as he addressed the crowd Emotional: Giada looked emotional as Graziano waxed lyrical about his love for Giada Embrace: The smitten pair embraced after the romantic proposal Happy couple: Graziano and Giada proudly posed with her new engagement ring after the show Dazzle: Giada's dazzling ring featured a solitaire diamond Giada addressed the so-called 'Strictly curse', explaining to OK! magazine that she wasn't jealous of Graziano's closeness with his celebrity partner. She said: 'I come from the same background so I understand that if you dance together you have to be very close. Im not jealous of that,' she said. Graziano said of their relationship: We love each other so we have to be together. Im alone in this big new world and I need her. We live together so its like were married. Marriage is very important to both of us. We want to start our life as husband and wife and have our own family. Well see when! I just knew from the first day she changed my life. Prowess: The dancing couple showed off the moves before the proposal Congrats: Fellow Strictly pro Oti Mabuse, 28, also shared a congratulatory message to Graziano, and posted a photo of the proposal to her Instagram story Millions of years before wallabies evolved, a wallaby-sized dinosaur was grazing prehistoric herbage in a long-vanished valley between the continents we call Australia and Antarctica. Newly identified from fossils in 125 million-year-old rocks by Dr Matt Herne of the University of New England, Galleonosaurus dorisae ran upright on powerful hind legs in the vast forested floodplain of the rift valley between the continents that were slowly tearing apart. Herne and his colleagues identified the dinosaur from five fossilised upper jaws found in rocks from Bunurong Marine Park in the Gippsland region of Victoria. Unusually, the fossilised jaws include young to mature individuals, which Herne said was the first time an age range has been identified from the jaws of an Australian dinosaur. Galleonosaurus is the fifth small-bodied ornithopod dinosaur named from Victoria. This diversity of ornithopod, not seen anywhere else in the world, paints a picture of an environment especially hospitable to these small dinosaurs. At the time of Galleonosaurus, sediments from a 4000 km long chain of large, actively erupting volcanoes along the eastern margin of the Australian continent were carried westward by large rivers into the AustralianAntarctic rift valley, where they formed deep sedimentary basins. As sediment washed down the rivers they picked up and... Lisa Vanderpump enjoyed a celebratory lunch Tuesday with her husband Ken Todd, children and beloved pooch in West Hollywood, California. The 58-year-old British restaurateur wore a long-sleeved pink blouse and black trousers for the family affair. She completed her outfit with black heels and accessorized with a large pink purse that matched her fingernail polish. Furry friend: Lisa Vanderpump clutched her Pomeranian pooch Tuesday while having lunch with her family in West Hollywood, California Lisa had her brown hair down around her shoulders and held hands with husband Ken as they walked to Petrossian Restaurant. The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills star held her Pomeranian pooch Puffy in her lap while dining al fresco. Lisa and Todd joined their daughter Pandora who was celebrating her 33rd birthday and her husband Jason Sabo. Their son Max, 27, also attended the birthday lunch where caviar and blue crab salad was served. Holding hands: The 58-year-old British restaurateur held hands with husband Ken Todd as they made their way to a restaurant Birthday lunch: Lisa and Ken celebrated their daughter Pandora's 33rd birthday with her husband Jason Sabo and their son Max Pandora also appeared to have brought her white poodle-mix Darling Sabo to the restaurant. Lisa has been feuding with her co-stars during the current ninth season of RHOBH on Bravo. She was reportedly absent from the latest episode Tuesday after she stopped filming with fellow cast members. Dog lover: The reality star held her Pomeranian pooch Puffy in her lap while dining outside 'She was bullied off the show,' a source told Page Six in an article. Lisa was no longer speaking with cast members after a dog adoption by her friend Dorit Kemsley went awry. The London native during the current season also has been shown struggling with the death of her older brother Mark who died in April 2018 from a drug overdose suicide. Lisa during the Vanderpump Rules reunion episode Monday revealed that she sought anti-depressants to cope. Going strong: Ken and Lisa have been married since 1982 'I've never taken pills in my life. Two Advil is a big deal for me. I'm always kind of British, stiff upper lip, but I guess I have feelings, too. And I didn't do well this year, at all. At all,' she said before becoming overcome with emotion and leaving the set. Lisa is an original cast member of RHOBH and has been starring on the show since its premiere in October 2010. Bravo in 2013 launched the spin-off show Vanderpump Rules that follows Lisa and her staff at her restaurant SUR in West Hollywood, California. For the past few days, fans have been speculating that Sophie Monk secretly had a boob job. But on Wednesday, the 39-year-old once again denied having a breast enlargement during an interview with The Kyle and Jackie O Show. She joked: 'I saw the comment with someone saying, "Oh new boobs", and I thought, "If these are new boobs, I want my money back, because they're just not!"' 'If they're fake, I want my money back!' Sophie Monk (pictured) laughed off boob job rumours on Wednesday - after her Instagram followers were convinced she'd gone under the knife Despite footage from her recent Maldives getaway showing her with perky, teardrop-shaped breasts, Sophie insisted they don't look as perfect in real life. 'They've got a mind of their own my boobs,' she said. 'Trust me, they're not great. Sometimes they're half-way down my back!' 'I'll have to sticky tape them [during TV appearances] because networks don't love boobs. They're out of control!' 'They're 39 years old and going south!' Despite footage from her Maldives getaway showing her with perky, teardrop-shaped breasts, Sophie insisted they don't look as perfect in real life Radio host Jackie 'O' Henderson then asked: 'Is that true, when you're hosting something they don't like too much boob on display?' 'Well you shouldn't anyway, it's not very family-friendly is it?' Sophie responded. Brushing off the surgery rumours, she added: 'I was just born with really big boobs and they're definitely going downward.' Laughing it off: Sophie told Kyle and Jackie O, 'I saw... someone saying, "Oh new boobs", and I thought, "If these are new boobs, I want my money back, because they're just not!"' She's all natural! Earlier this week, Sophie reassured her Instagram followers that she's all natural after several people asked if she'd recently had a breast enlargement Earlier this week, Sophie reassured her Instagram followers that she's all natural. After fans were left gobsmacked by footage of her on holiday in the Maldives, the former Bardot star denied she was showing off her 'new boobs'. The speculation began after Sophie shared a video of herself walking out of the ocean dripping wet in a skimpy red bikini. 'New boobs?' one of her followers commented, to which Sophie swiftly replied: 'They're 39 years old and going south.' Olivia Newton-John, 70, is battling cancer for the third time. But on Tuesday, the Grease star looked in happy spirits during a sun-soaked boat trip with her daughter Chloe Lattanzi. Chloe, posting to Instagram for the first time in eight months, shared several photos of the pair with other family members. 'Momma and me': Olivia Newton-John's daughter Chloe Lattanzi shared a rare photo of the cancer-stricken Grease star, 70, on Tuesday Chloe, 32, is Olivia's daughter from her marriage to American actor Matt Lattanzi in the 1980s. 'Momma and Me,' Chloe captioned a photo of herself embracing her mother on the deck of their boat. In another picture, Olivia looked upbeat alongside her husband John Easterling and others, including Chloe and her fiance James Driskill. Fun in the sun! Olivia (far left) looked upbeat alongside her husband John Easterling and others In September, Olivia confirmed she was fighting cancer for a third time. The four-time Grammy winner was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, undergoing a partial mastectomy and reconstruction. She battled cancer for a second time in 2013, but kept the illness private. Health battle: In September, Olivia confirmed she was fighting cancer for a third time Meanwhile, Chloe looked happy and healthy in the holiday snaps posted on Tuesday. It's believed to be the first time she has publicly shared a photo to Instagram since August 2018. At the time, she bid farewell to her 47,000 followers, telling them she needed a break from social media for her own well-being. 'This is so hard,' she wrote. 'I just feel I've become addicted to screens and media, and it's distracting me from what's real.' Chloe (pictured) returned to Instagram this week after an eight-month social media detox Chloe previously struggled with depression for 15 years, and also had issues with anorexia, body dysmorphia, drug addiction and alcohol dependency. Returning to Instagram this week, Chloe has only 18 posts on her grid having deleted the vast majority of her photos. Interestingly, she no longer appears to follow fiance James, whom she got engaged to in 2010. However, he was featured in her recent photos. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Chloe and James for comment. He recently returned to Albert Square after a year off-screen. And EastEnders character Ben Mitchell was ruffling viewers' feathers on Tuesday night's instalment of the BBC soap by sending saucy text messages during the show's pre-watershed time slot. Ben - played by Max Bowden - woke up to a message from a mystery man who was saved in his phone as 'Pecs Guy'. Sexting: EastEnders character Ben Mitchell was ruffling viewers' feathers on Tuesday night's instalment of the BBC soap by sending saucy text messages during the show's pre-watershed time slot The man had texted: 'Last night was hot. More later?' This was followed by a squirting emoji, commonly used while sexting. Ben smiled at this, replying to it later on, while he was having breakfast with his young daughter no less. He replied, 'Problem at home I gotta sort out first,' adding an aubergine emoji to the text, typically meant to resemble a penis. Saucy: Ben - played by Max Bowden - woke up to a message from a mystery man who was saved in his phone as 'Pecs Guy' My my! Ben smiled at this, replying to it later on, while he was having breakfast with his young daughter no less Viewers picked up on this, immediately flocking to Twitter to express their blushes. 'Do we really need to see Bens dirty text messages? And it was pretty hilarious him putting the emoji... yeah right, Ben! In your dreams! [sic]' one person posted. 'OMG did Ben actually send the aubergine emoji on #EastEnders?! [sic]' another tweeted. A third penned: 'I find Ben's whole family situation strange. Pretending to be in cahoots with Lexi, whilst sending aubergine emojis. Who is he kidding? [sic]' Ben V-VI: The character has been portrayed over the years by six different actors, the most recent being Harry Reid and Max Bowden A fourth remarked: 'Oh ffs ben sending the emoji how many old people watching this trying to figure that out ?? This new ben mitchell definitely sends unsolicited d**k pics! [sic]' Max - the new Ben - cropped up for the first time last month, replacing former Ben actor Harry Reid. The character - who is the son of Phil and Kathy - has been portrayed over the years by six different actors. The one with all the Bens: Ben was born on an episode of the soap on on 21 March 1996, portrayed by Matthew Silver [top left] between 1996 and 1998. The part then went to Morgan Whittle [top right], who played Ben as a toddler between 1999 and 2001. In 2006, Charlie Jones [bottom left] took on the role. Ben was replaced again in 2010 by Joshua Pascoe [bottom right] Ben was born on an episode of the soap on on 21 March 1996, portrayed by Matthew Silver between 1996 and 1998. The part then went to Morgan Whittle, who played Ben as a toddler between 1999 and 2001. The character didn't feature in EastEnders after that for five years, but returned in 2006 with Charlie Jones in the role. Ben was replaced again in 2010 by Joshua Pascoe, until 2012. The character disappeared again until 2014, with Harry in the part. Ben was then written out of the show in early 2018. The character was reintroduced in March 2019, with the role recast once again, with Max in the part. EastEnders airs on BBC One on Mondays and Fridays at 8PM and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30PM. Art imitates life for Tilda Swinton and her daughter Honor Swinton Byrne in the independent film The Souvenir. The pair play mother and daughter on screen in the romantic drama that premiered at Sundance in January and opens in theatres on May 17. The actresses opted for contrasting yet complementary outfits for the film's screening in New York on Tuesday night. Family ties: Tilda Swinton and her actress daughter Honor Swinton Byrne sparkled at a special screening of their new film The Souvenir in New York Tuesday night Tilda, 58, arrived wearing a long black coat with sparkly detailing. She wore it buttoned up over a white top and black slacks and added pointed toe black heels. Her light blonde hair was styled in a quiff at the front and tucked back behind her ears, one of which was decorated with a diamond cuff. Stylish: Tilda, 58, arrived wearing a long black coat with sparkly detailing. She wore it buttoned up over a white top and black slacks and added pointed toe black heels Striking: Her light blonde hair was styled in a quiff at the front and tucked back behind her ears, one of which was decorated with a diamond cuff Pretty look: Honor, 21, chose a glittering silver and black dress that fell to mid-calf. The outfit had a round neckline and long sleeves and she stepped out in black sandal heels Celebrity offspring: Honor's father is Tilda's former partner Scottish artist and playwright John Byrne, 79, and she has a twin brother Xavier Honor, 21, chose a glittering silver and black dress that fell to mid-calf. The outfit had a round neckline and long sleeves and she stepped out in black sandal heels. Her father is Tilda's former partner Scottish artist and playwright John Byrne, 79, and she has a twin brother Xavier. Tilda split from Byrne in 2005 and is currently in a relationship with German painter Sandro Klopp, 41. The Souvenir is directed by British filmmaker Julia Hogg who also attended Tuesday night's screening. Big night: The Souvenir is directed by British filmmaker Julia Hogg who also attended Tuesday night's screening. The film opens in theatres on May 17 Tilda has successfully juggled independent films with more mainstream Hollywood fare over the course of her three decades-long career. She's appeared in such high profile movies as Vanilla Sky, Constantine, Michael Clayton, The Chronicles of Narnia trilogy and the Marvel superhero films Dr. Strange and Avengers: Endgame. She has also starred in acclaimed lower budget films including The Deep End, Thumbsucker, Broken Flowers and We Need To Talk About Kevin. Former-Blue Peter presenter Simon Thomas reunited with ex-co-star Matt Baker and fellow CBBC hosts Angellica Bell and Michael Underwood on Tuesday night at a restaurant in London. Posing with the other TV presenters - who all fronted CBBC during the early-naughties - Simon, 46, captioned the image: 'Lovely evening with some of my favourites. #CBBC.' This sent fans - who were children at the time - wild, leaving nostalgic replies underneath the image. Reunion: Former-Blue Peter presenter Simon Thomas reunited with ex-co-star Matt Baker and fellow CBBC hosts Angellica Bell and Michael Underwood on Tuesday night in London One posted: 'There's a whole load of almost 30yo's whose hearts you've just exploded. You guys. It's gorgeous you're still hanging out - and like, we could tell you were really friends when we were kids watching, it's what made it all special.' Another penned: It's like my childhood in a photo!' 'That right there is my childhood in one picture So many fond memories you brought me xxx,' another posted. A fourth commented: 'All telly legends!' Matt and Simon presented Blue Peter during the early-naughties [pictured with Konnie Huq] Throwback: Angellica and Michael ended up marrying after meeting at CBBC. They tied the knot in New York in December 2010. and have two children aged seven and five Angellica and Michael ended up marrying after meeting at CBBC. They tied the knot in New York in December 2010. and have two children aged seven and five. Angellica sits alongside Matt on The One Show every now and then, while his regular co-host Alex Jones is on maternity leave. Meanwhile, it was announced that Simon is joining This Morning as he returns to TV for the first time following the death of his wife Gemma. Return: Simon is joining This Morning as he returns to TV for the first time following the death of his wife Gemma Family: The TV presenter's wife passed away in 2017 after a battle with leukemia, with the couple parents to their son Ethan, now nine Gemma passed away in 2017 after a battle with leukemia, with the couple parents to their son Ethan, now nine. The former Blue Peter host will present a three-part segment called Pursuit of Happiness which will focus on mental health and well being, as well as alternative therapies. It will be Simon's first time presenting again since Gemma's death in November 2017. Martin Frizell, editor of This Morning, told The Mirror: 'This series will be Simons first step in returning to his presenting career and will focus on a subject matter that changed his life for ever.' TV: The former Blue Peter host, 46, will present a three-part segment called Pursuit of Happiness During the show, Simon will take part in equestrian therapy and cold water swimming. The TV star is now dating Darina Webb, 27, who he met in church and previously described as an 'incredible support'. He said: 'What I saw in her, I saw in Gemma. When she said my phone is always on, she meant it.' Simon previously opened up about telling Ethan about his mother's passing during an appearance on This Morning. Honest: Simon previously opened up about telling Ethan about his mother's passing during an appearance on This Morning Speaking to hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby, he said: 'I think I woke up every one [in the hospital] as I screamed. I screamed to God saying: "Why have you left my son without my mum?" 'I got home [afterwards] and grabbed him and looked deep into his brown eyes and said: "They couldn't make mummy better". 'You can't dress it up. I said: "Mummy's died". He collapsed on the floor and I collapsed there with him... 'He's been dealt a tough break in life at the age of eight, he's lost his mum already.' She is know for showing off her flawless figures on runways around the globe. But Romee Strijd turned Young Hollywood Studio into her own personal catwalk on Tuesday. The 23-year-old Victoria's Secret Angel gave some dating advice while taking over the stage in Los Angeles. Catwalk queen! Romee Strijd turned Young Hollywood Studio into her own personal runway on Tuesday The Danish dish showed off her taut stomach in a yellow ensemble as she stepped out on stage. Romee sported silky pajama-inspired trousers underneath a small tube top and a matching blazer. She added a couple inches to her towering 5ft 11in figure via clear heels and let her long blonde locks fall straight across her shoulders. Beauty: The 23-year-old Victoria's Secret Angel gave some dating advice while taking over the stage in Los Angeles On Monday, she took to her Instagram page to share that she just returned to Los Angeles. Romee told her fans on social media that she wanted matcha and also shared a clip of her and her boyfriend Laurens van Leeuwen enjoying the green tea drink. The blonde, blue-eyed beauty was a newcomer in 2014 at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and became a Victoria's Secret Angel in 2015. Hello sunshine! The Danish dish showed off her taut stomach in a yellow ensemble as she stepped out on stage She told Victoria's Secret at the time that she couldn't believe it when she got the offer in 2015 for a coveted Angel contract. 'My agency said I got the contract, I was really in shock. Becoming an Angel means a lot to me because the brand stands for confident women and the Angels always inspired me,' Romee said. She was chosen in 2018 to wear the Shooting Star Swarovski Look during the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Romee's been dating business consultant Laurens since at least 2014. She also has walked for Alexander McQueen, Badgley Mischka, Calvin Klein, Marchesa, Prada and Vera Wang and other top designers and brands. He's one of Hollywood's hardest working actors. But Chris Pine took some down time from work on Tuesday, when the 38-year-old actor test drove some BMW motorbikes in Burbank, California. The Wonder Woman actor looked ruggedly handsome on a worn leather riding jacket. Biker chic: Chris Pine took some down time from work on Tuesday, when the 38-year-old actor test drove some BMW motorbikes in Burbank, California The native Angeleno also wore mustard colored trousers and riding boots. The covered his blonde-streaked tresses with a helmet. The Hollywood hunk wore a tight-fitting white T-shirt beneath his jacket. Colonel Mustard: The native Angeleno also wore mustard colored trousers and riding boots Chris finally seems to be taking it easy after a busy year that included roles in multiple films. He was featured in A Wrinkle In Time, Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse and Outlaw King, and he also headlined the six-episode limited series I Am The Night. The TNT series was based on the crime memoir One Day She'll Darken by Fauna Hodel, which recounts her difficult upbringing and her connections to her grandfather George Hodel, one of the most infamous suspects in LA's Black Dahlia murder case. Pine received special marks from critics for his smoldering performance on the show, which was acclaimed for its connections to classic film noir. Working hard or hardly working? Chris finally seems to be taking it easy after a busy year that included roles in multiple films The Wonder Woman actor doesn't have any new projects lined up until 2020, when he'll appear in the sequel Wonder Woman 1984. Chris' character seemingly sacrifices himself to save Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman at the end of the 2017 film, so it's not yet clear how he'll been transported into the 1980s. The Star Trek star joked with ET in 2017 that he'd made a mistake in putting on muscle for the woman-led action film. 'I got in incredible shape for [Wonder Woman]. I was also wearing about 75 pounds of clothing. [Wonder Woman director] Patty [Jenkins] has a fetish, you just like a lot of clothing. You like down coats, winter sweaters,' he joked with her on the red carpet. 'What I realized is that I made a major mistake, I got in great shape and they just put clothes over all my hard work.' She might be a gorgeous Oscar-winner, but Charlize Theron insists she's 'really hard to be in a relationship with.' Theron, appearing Monday on The Late Late Show with James Corden, explained why she can be a frustrating partner with her aggressive neatness. 'I'm very OCD, I don't like the idea of having too much stuff - or stuff that I don't use - it really bothers me, yes,' Theron, 43, said. Quirky: Charlize Theron, 43, said on The Late Late Show with James Corden Monday that she can be a frustrating partner with her aggressive neatness The A-list actress told Corden that in one case, she disposed of a partner's shoes she wasn't partial toward. 'I think it's really hard to be in a relationship with me,' said Theron, who was promoting her new romantic comedy Long Shot in the appearance. 'I was in a relationship and whenever this person went out of town, I couldn't help myself, I needed to get kind of rid of - listen, I was being helpful, I think - because men's shoes are tricky.' The South African-born stunner, who appeared alongside her co-star in the political comedy, Seth Rogen, continued: 'He had very tricky shoes and when he was out of town, I would get rid of the tricky shoes and he would come home and within two hours say, "Where are my straw shoes?" 'And I'm like, "Did you just hear yourself? You're wearing straw shoes - no grown man should wear straw shoes" ... and he had like the clown patch shoes, the fabric patch.' On the promotional trail: The South African-born stunner appeared alongside her Long Shot co-star Seth Rogen Cold feet: The A-list actress told Corden that in one case, she disposed of a partner's shoes she wasn't partial toward Insight: Theron said she thought she 'was helping' her partner by tossing the straw shoes Rogen added, 'I'm amazed you dated this person!' Theron said she thought she 'was helping' her partner - who she did not name - in terms of his fashion tastes. The Atomic Blonde actress has been in a number of high-profile relationships in the past, having dated Sean Penn, and been linked to Keanu Reeves and Brad Pitt. In Long Shot, Theron plays secretary of state and presidential candidate Charlotte Field, while Rogen portrays a speechwriter named Fred Flarsky. The film is in theaters now. Beauty: The Oscar-winner looked amazing in a billowing chartreuse dress on the program The late great Steve Irwin's son, Robert, is all grown up. The 15-year-old was spotted enjoying a sunny day in Los Angeles with his mother, Terri Irwin, on Monday. Accompanied by friend Luke Reavley, the trio were seen strolling through upmarket Beverly Hills. Taking a walk: Robert Irwin took some time out from Australia Zoo this week. The 15-year-old was spotted enjoying a sunny day in Los Angeles with his mum, Terri Irwin, on Monday Robert now stands taller than his 54-year-old mum, and traded his usual khakis for a pair of trendy navy blue chinos. He also donned a beige button-up shirt, which he rolled up at the sleeves. The teen wildlife aficionado rounded out his ensemble with a pair of cool maroon-coloured shades and tan-coloured lace-up shoes. When in LA: Accompanied by friend Luke Reavley, the trio were seen strolling through upmarket Beverly Hills Meanwhile, Terri looked casual in a pair of light blue jeans, which she wore with a dark grey printed T-shirt. She also wore ecru-coloured sneakers, and carried a black cardigan and matching black handbag draped over one arm. The family - along with daughter Bindi Irwin, 20 - were in Los Angeles for the Steve Irwin Gala Dinner, which took place on Saturday. In the limelight: Robert also did a round of celebrity interviews during his LA visit. Pictured on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon Horsing around: The rising young star last week appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, introducing the 44-year-old TV host to a miniature horse 'This very special annual event celebrates the many things that Steve was passionate about - family, conservation and fun,' reads the description on the gala's website. Robert - who told ET on Sunday he'd be up for appearing on Dancing With the Stars - also did a round of celebrity interviews during his LA visit. The rising young star last week appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, introducing the 44-year-old TV host to a miniature horse. Play: The family made time for some fun, with Robert taking to Instagram on Wednesday to share photos of himself at Disneyland with sister Bindi's longtime boyfriend, Chandler Powell Boys day out: Robert and Chandler were joined by friend and fellow Australia Zoo employee Luke (centre) during their Disneyland outing 'Thank you @fallontonight and @jimmyfallon for having me back on the show... so much fun as always!' Robert wrote on Instagram. But the family also made time for some fun, with Robert taking to Instagram on Wednesday to share photos of himself at Disneyland with Luke and Bindi's longtime boyfriend, Chandler Powell, 22. As for Robert's dating life, Terri revealed there are plenty of girls interested in the handsome young star during an interview with Access in April last year. Young love? Mum Terri has said Robert, a budding photographer, only has eyes for his art at the moment, despite stepping out with actress Emmy Perry at the gala on Saturday 'Yes, well, they are only human,' she joked. But she said Robert, a budding photographer, only has eyes for his art at the moment, despite stepping out with actress Emmy Perry, 14, at the gala. 'I do love watching him growing up and having a passion for photography. There's a lot of young girls that love photography as well,' she hinted. Internationally, there is a growing focus on protecting important biodiversity found on privately owned land. In some countries, privately protected areas (PPAs) are included in a nations effort to meet international conservation targets. PPAs can be created in a variety of ways. These include outright acquisition and management of land by conservation organisations, or by landholders protecting their land with a conservation covenant. A major constraint on the creation of PPAs, however, can be a lack of financial resources, particularly where land is expensive to buy and manage as a private conservation reserve, or where existing landowners are reluctant to enter into permanent conservation agreements. One strategy conservation organisations have employed to deal with these issues is to purchase land with ecological assets, and then resell that land to new conservation-minded owners, in the process adding a permanent conservation agreement (such as a covenant). The proceeds from the sale can then be used to purchase and protect additional land. In Australia, this approach is referred to as a revolving fund. Surprisingly, given the number of revolving funds in operation around the world, not much is known about the process of buying, protecting and reselling land for this purpose. In fact, the approach has a variety of different names (and operate in... Denise Richards shocked her castmates by spilling new sexual secrets on Tuesday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills. The 48-year-old actress during a glamorous RV camping trip casually revealed that she had once sought out a massage with a 'happy ending' for her new husband Aaron Phypers - and that she had even enjoyed one herself. Denise started sharing sex details after Dorit Kemsley, 42, asked her how a massage she'd just received near the campground had gone. Camping stories: Denise Richard spilled sex secrets during a group camping trip on Tuesday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills Denise nonchalantly replied, 'You don't get a happy ending, but it's a good massage.' Drinking from a small red cup, Denise suddenly volunteered her own experience with that type of sexual encounter, telling the other women: 'Aaron had never had a happy ending, and we were on the hunt. I wanted him to have one.' 'You wanted him to get a massage with a happy ending?' asked Kyle Richards, 50, incredulously. 'Yeah. He's the only guy I've ever been with that had never had one. I'm like, you have to try it,' Denise offered. Try it: The 48-year-old actress said she went on a hunt to find a massage with a 'happy ending' for her new husband Aaron Phypers Regular massage: Denise earlier got a massage and when asked about it started talking about 'happy ending' rubdowns Try it: The Wild Things star said that her spouse Aaron had never had one and also revealed that she's had a 'happy ending' massage An awkward silence fell over the campground as the women digested her comment. Kyle in a confessional said: 'If anyone came near my husband for a happy ending, they would lose an arm. Erika Girardi, 47, tried to dispel the awkwardness by saying: 'I don't know any man in my life that hasn't f***ed hookers.' Arm gone: Kyle Richards in a confessional said that if anyone came near her husband for a happy ending they would 'lose an arm' Sex talk: Erika Girardi chimed in that she didn't know any man who had not had sex with a prostitute 'Wow, the conversations we are having on a camp trip,' marveled Lisa Rinna, 55. Then Kyle leaned in and asked Denise: 'Have you had a happy ending massage?' 'Yeah,' Denise admitted, as the women gasped. Candid conversation: Denise shocked the women again when she admitted that she's had a happy ending massage It was an experience with a woman, she added. 'I didn't plan for it I didn't stop it,' she said. Camille Grammer, 50, felt moved to share her own experience from a torrid sexual affair that lasted three-years, during which she learned the secrets of 'prostate massage.' Good times: Lisa Rinna, Dorit Kemsley and Teddi Mellencamp reacted as Denise opened up Her turn: Camille Grammer then shared her story about giving a 'prostate massage' Torrid affair: The 50-year-old reality star told of her own experience from a torrid sexual affair that lasted three-years Earlier in the day, Grammer - once married to Frasier star Kelsey Grammer - divulged that the use of a strap-on also broke up her relationship with an unnamed lover. 'My ex and I did some sexy, kinky play,' she said, shrugging and laughing. 'This is what we do for the people we love.' The eye-raising conversations were all part of a luxurious RV trip hosted by castmate Teddi Mellencamp Arroyave, 37, which found the women spending the day at a coastal California campground with deer and peacocks - far from their gossip-filled lives back home. RV trip: Teddi hosted the women as they embarked on a luxurious RV trip Coastal campground: The women headed out to a coastal campground in Ventura, California Embarking on a 24-hour adventure seemed to throw some of the women into a panic. Lisa Rinna brought five pairs of shoes, wirecutters, wine and other unnecessary items in giant bags. Teddi pointed out that in Los Angeles, being outdoorsy means 'wearing a full face of makeup.' Getting ready: Lisa Rinna brought five pairs of shoes, wirecutters, wine and other unnecessary items in giant bags Good one: Teddi pointed out that in Los Angeles, being outdoorsy means 'wearing a full face of makeup' 'I like to be prepared in case something scary happens, like a bear chasing me or a shark wanting to eat me,' said Kyle Richards. 'An Epi-pen, band-aids, a machete.' The group spent around $600 on food at a local store. 'Everybody is grabbing things off the shelf like it's Armageddon.' Dorit noted. Shopping trip: The woman went overboard while shopping for the trip Grand total: The bill was nearly $700 for one night of camping Shopping spree: Dorit said that everybody was 'grabbing things off the shelf like it's Armageddon' 'I'm down for this,' said Erika before they left, hair in a sweeping updo, her lipstick a bright, shiny pink. 'Everybody thinks: ''Oh, you know, Erika won't really want to go camping.'' B****, I've been camping all my life. I'm a fishing, camping, go-kart riding, gun-shooting tomboy.' There was just one person missing: Lisa Vanderpump, 58, the restaurateur and cast member who had been arguing with castmates all season. Her presence however was felt and widely discussed. Camping experience: Erika Girardi said that she's been camping her whole life As Erika recounted rolling Rinna's full bags up the hill, she said she thought: 'What the f*** is in this bag, Rinna? A dead body?' She lowered her voice, looking cautiously from side to side. 'Vanderpump?' Kyle bemoaned Lisa's absence after their friendship crumbled in the wake of the Puppygate drama. Missing person: Lisa Vanderpump was noticeably missing from the camping trip Dorit initially upset Vanderpump by giving up a dog she'd adopted through her foundation that ultimately ended up in a shelter. 'I don't understand how it turned out she's angry at me,' Dorit complained. 'Can I tell you how I feel?' Erika said that evening, at dinner. 'I care about the women at this table. You wanna be an a**hole, go be a f***ing a**hole.' Group effort: The women teamed up to work the grill together Friendship over: Dorit wondered how Vanderpump ended up being mad at her Being honest: Erika said that she was glad to be with the women at the table 'I wanna be friends with people that are easy to get along with; that don't keep score; that don't move chess pieces around on a board; that don't try to make themselves look great and you look s***ty,' Erika added in a one-on-one interview later. 'I miss her. I'd like her to be here with us laughing and she's not,' said Kyle. Teddi opened up her own rift with Camille, offering unsolicited advice about how she should repair her friendship with Vanderpump in advance of her upcoming wedding. 'If you really care don't text herpick up the phone and call her and say, ''I want you at my wedding'',' Teddi suggested. 'That's how you handle things.' Sage advice: Teddi offered some unsolicited but sage advice to Camille 'Teddi is inserting herself into conversations that not necessarily she should be involved with,' Camille pointed out. 'She's the know-it-all and I find it irritating.' Scenes from next week's episode showed Camille nonetheless brokering that conversation with Vanderpump. RHOBH will return next week on Bravo. He recently revealed that his wife banned him from riding motorcycles after a near-death accident in Italy. But George Clooney, 57, and Amal Clooney, 41, looked as happy as ever as they arrived at the premiere of his new Hulu miniseries Catch-22 on Tuesday in Hollywood. Amal glowed in a silky green dress while her husband rocked an unbuttoned shirt and suit. Glamour: George Clooney, 57, and Amal Clooney, 41, looked as happy as ever as they arrived at the premiere of his new Hulu miniseries Catch-22 on Tuesday in Hollywood The LebaneseBritish human rights attorney's dark green dress featured extensive ruching over her torso, with a flourish of fabric covering her left arm. The dress appeared to expose one shoulder, though her lustrous dark locks covered it. The short outfit exposed her toned trim legs, further accentuated by a pair of black heels. Amal was conservatively made-up, but wore a striking splash of crimson on her lips. Shining: Amal glowed in a silky green dress while her husband rocked an unbuttoned shirt and suit Textured: The LebaneseBritish human rights attorney's dark green dress featured extensive ruching over her torso, with a flourish of fabric covering her left arm Showing skin: The dress appeared to expose one shoulder, though her lustrous dark locks covered it In contrast with his glamorous wife, George went more casual with his dark suit. He left a few buttons of his white shirt open, and showed off his trimmed salt and pepper beard. The Ocean's 11 star produces his new series, as well as directing the first two episodes and appearing in a small role as Lieutenant Scheisskopf. The show adapts Joseph Heller's seminal anti-war satire, first published in 1961. A film adaptation was previously made in 1970, directed by Mike Nichols and starring Alan Arkin as the besieged bombardier Yossarian. Legs for days: The short outfit exposed her toned trim legs, further accentuated by a pair of black heels Sex symbol: In contrast with his glamorous wife, George went more casual with his dark suit and partly unbuttoned shirt Also at the premiere was George's friend and longtime collaborator Matt Damon, who wore a similarly relaxed suit. He was joined by his wife Luciana Barroso, who wore her own black suit with a magenta lace bra sticking out. Don Cheadle, who stars in the $2 billion hit Avengers: Endgame and was also an Ocean's 11 alumnus, favored a silky burgundy suit that was offset by bright white sneakers. Chris Abbott, who stars as Yossarian, channeled the series' 1940s setting with a stylish double-breasted brown suit. Kyle Chandler and Graham Patrick Martin both play important roles on the show, and both wore lustrous blue suits to the celebrity-studded premiere. Cute couple: Also at the premiere was George's friend and longtime collaborator Matt Damon, who wore a similarly relaxed suit, while his wife Luciana Barroso, wore her own black suit with a magenta lace bra sticking out Purple suit: Don Cheadle, who stars in the $2 billion hit Avengers: Endgame and was also an Ocean's 11 alumnus, favored a silky burgundy suit that was offset by bright white sneakers Classic look: Chris Abbott, who stars as Yossarian, channeled the series' 1940s setting with a stylish double-breasted brown suit Boys in blue: Kyle Chandler and Graham Patrick Martin both play important roles on the show, and both wore lustrous blue suits to the celebrity-studded premiere Tessa Ferrer of Grey's Anatomy fame, best known as a blonde, trading in her light-colored locks for a chic brunette bob. She was a burst of bright color with her silky orange double-breasted suit and blue and purple fringed handbag. Rocker and actress Courtney Love and Sex And The City's Kristin Davis were both attired in blue dresses, with Courtney wearing a midnight blue polka dot outfit and Kristin showing off a brighter blue outfit with black and white clover prints. Peter Facinelli went with a casual pair of distressed jeans and a navy blazer over a black shirt. Change-up: Tessa Ferrer of Grey's Anatomy fame, best known as a blonde, trading in her light-colored locks for a chic brunette bob Dotty: Rocker and actress Courtney Love and Sex And The City's Kristin Davis were both attired in blue dresses, with Courtney wearing a midnight blue polka dot outfit and Kristin showing off a brighter blue outfit with black and white clover prints No fuss: Peter Facinelli went with a casual pair of distressed jeans and a navy blazer over a black shirt Julie Ann Emery, who plays the wife of George Clooney's character, arrived in a stunning pearl dress with a frilly flourish of material over one shoulder and a thin white clutch. Rafi Gavron, who played the producer and manager in last year's A Star Is Born, looked hip in a navy blue suit with a plain black shirt underneath. Jay Paulson, Catch-22's chaplain, arrived with a smart gray suit and a devious smile. Daniel David Stewart plays the Milo Minderbinder, the industrious and amoral mess officer who hilarious squanders his units necessary supplies in a loopy stock market scheme. He was dressed in a light gray suit with a burgundy shirt and multi-colored scarf. Striking look: Julie Ann Emery, who plays the wife of George Clooney's character, arrived in a stunning pearl dress with a frilly flourish of material over one shoulder and a thin white clutch No tie: Rafi Gavron, who played the producer and manager in last year's A Star Is Born, looked hip in a navy blue suit with a plain black shirt underneath Smirking: Jay Paulson, Catch-22's chaplain, arrived with a smart gray suit and a devious smile Slate gray: Daniel David Stewart was dressed in a light gray suit with a burgundy shirt and multi-colored scarf It was just yesterday when MAFS' Jessika Power, 27, shared a video of herself getting lip fillers. But the reality star is already back in the cosmetic's chair, visiting prominent plastic surgeon Dr Anoop Rastog in Sydney's affluent suburb of Double Bay on Wednesday. The blonde, who recently bragged to NW magazine of her $25,000 post-MAFS cosmetic makeover, documented her visit by sharing two Boomerang videos to Instagram Stories. She can't stay away! Jessika Power, 27, is already back in the cosmetic's chair, visiting prominent plastic surgeon Dr Anoop Rastog in Sydney's affluent suburb of Double Bay on Wednesday (pictured) In the first video, Jessika filmed the clinic's marble reception desk, before sharing a second video of herself pouting in the waiting room mirror. According to his social media, Dr Rastog specialises in breast implants, liposuction, fat transfers, face lifts and tummy tucks. While Jessika hasn't revealed what her next procedure will be, she did tell NW magazine on Monday that she plans to have a non-surgical nose job and liposculpture on her thighs and buttocks in the near future. She's not finished yet! While Jessika hasn't revealed what her next procedure will be, she did tell NW magazine on Monday that she plans to have a non-surgical nose job and lipo-sculpture on her thighs and buttocks in the near future. Pictured in March 2019 The aspiring model has also been researching 'Brazilian butt lift' surgery in her quest to achieve the perfect silhouette. Since appearing on MAFS, Jessika has undergone a handful of procedures in quick succession that have left her looking almost unrecognisable. In her interview with NW magazine, the bombshell admitted she's shelled out $25,000 on a new set of veneers, two rounds of dental work, cheek and lip fillers, Botox and a brow lift. Botox, fillers, dental work and an eyebrow lift: Since appearing on MAFS, Jessika has undergone a handful of procedures in quick succession that have left her looking almost unrecognisable. Pictured right: in April 2019, and left: in August 2017 Jessika has also transformed her hair with a set of Rapunzel-inspired blonde extensions in recent weeks. 'I'm a confident girl, but having tens of thousands of people criticise me each day has shaken me to the core. I felt like I had heaps wrong with me afterwards,' she said, reflecting on her MAFS experience. The Perth-born administrative worker added that she felt insecure about her appearance while dating Daniel Webb. 'Dan's exes were all beautiful, including a Playboy bunny. I looked at pictures of her, then looked at myself and thought, 'I look boring',' she confessed. 'I felt like I had heaps wrong with me': Jessika told NW magazine that constant trolling about her appearance during MAFS made her feel ugly and insecure 'Dan's exes were all beautiful... I felt boring': The Perth-born administrative worker added that she felt insecure about her appearance while dating Daniel Webb (pictured) Charlize Theron kept a very low profile in Los Angeles as she stepped out in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The 43-year-old actress donned a light tie-dyed blue hooded sweatshirt, with the hood up, with a grey jacket and black leggings. She wore black sunglasses and grey sneakers, toting a high-end brown purse. The Atomic Blonde actress was accompanied by a man in an black suit on the daytime outing. Shining star: Charlize Theron, 43, kept a very low profile in Los Angeles as she took a meeting on Tuesday The South African-born stunner has appeared on a number of shows this month promoting her new romantic comedy Long Shot, as she's been opening up about both her career and her love life. As to the former, Theron gave, on Watch What Happens Live last week, 'a great example of how Hollywood like slaps you in the face when you start aging' when asked if she had turned down playing Wonder Woman. Theron told host Andy Cohen she was actually offered the role of Wonder Woman's mother Hippolyta in the 2017 film, despite being just nine years older than the actress in the titular role, Gal Gadot. 'I did not turn the role of Wonder Woman down,' she said. 'Somebody had said to me, "Oh, theres action on this thing, Wonder Woman - we just want to make you aware of it."' She continued, 'And I was like, "I'm just not familiar with it ... I mean, what does Wonder Woman do?" And this person said, "No, its for Wonder Womans mom."' (The role eventually went to actress Connie Nielsen, who was 51 when the film hit theaters in June of 2017.) Theron called the offer 'the defining moment where I crossed over ... and I wasnt fully aware of it.' Company: The Atomic Blonde actress was accompanied by a man in an black suit on the daytime outing Busy: The South African-born stunner has appeared on a number of shows this month promoting her new romantic comedy Long Shot, which co-stars Seth Rogen Candid: Appearing on Watch What Happens Live last week, she revealed she was offered the role of Wonder Woman's mother, despite just a nine-year age difference between she and Gal Gadot Fearless: Theron called the offer 'a great example of how Hollywood like slaps you in the face when you start aging' The actress on Monday appeared on The Late Late Show with James Corden alongside her co-star, Seth Rogen. On the program, Theron explained why she can be a frustrating partner with her aggressive neatness: 'I'm very OCD, I don't like the idea of having too much stuff - or stuff that I don't use - it really bothers me, yes.' The A-list actress told Corden that in one case, she disposed of a partner's shoes she wasn't partial toward. 'I think it's really hard to be in a relationship with me,' said Theron, who was promoting her new romantic comedy Long Shot in the appearance. 'I was in a relationship and whenever this person went out of town, I couldn't help myself, I needed to get kind of rid of - listen, I was being helpful, I think - because men's shoes are tricky.' Quirky: Charlize Theron, 43, said on The Late Late Show with James Corden Monday that she can be a frustrating partner with her aggressive neatness On the promotional trail: The South African-born stunner appeared alongside her Long Shot co-star Seth Rogen Cold feet: The A-list actress told Corden that in one case, she disposed of a partner's shoes she wasn't partial toward Insight: Theron said she thought she 'was helping' her partner by tossing the straw shoes Theron continued: 'He had very tricky shoes and when he was out of town, I would get rid of the tricky shoes and he would come home and within two hours say, "Where are my straw shoes?" 'And I'm like, "Did you just hear yourself? You're wearing straw shoes - no grown man should wear straw shoes" ... and he had like the clown patch shoes, the fabric patch.' Rogen added, 'I'm amazed you dated this person!' Theron said she thought she 'was helping' her partner - who she did not name - in terms of his fashion tastes. Theron has been in a number of high-profile relationships in the past, having dated Sean Penn, and been linked to Keanu Reeves and Brad Pitt. In Long Shot, Theron plays secretary of state and presidential candidate Charlotte Field, while Rogen portrays a speechwriter named Fred Flarsky. The film is in theaters now. Beauty: The Oscar-winner looked amazing in a billowing chartreuse dress on the program On Monday night she dazzled at the 2019 Met Gala in a slinky white gown encrusted with shimmering pearls. But Tuesday, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley was business chic as she arrived at New York's JFK Airport for a flight out of town. The English model, 32, cut a dash in a beige tailored jacket and a skintight black catsuit. Head-turner: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley was business chic as she arrived at New York's JFK Airport Monday in a beige tailored jacket and a skintight black catsuit She stepped out in embellished sandal heels and rocked a pair of large yellow tinted sunglasses. Her long blonde hair was worn in a chignon at the nape of her neck and she carried a black leather tote. She completed her look with a pendant necklace and diamond earrings. Heading out of town: The English model, 32, stepped out in embellished sandal heels and rocked a pair of large yellow tinted sunglasses. She carried a large black leather tote Chic: Her long blonde hair was worn in a chignon at the nape of her neck and she completed her look with a pendant necklace and diamond earrings Wow factor: On Monday night, Huntington-Whiteley looked gorgeous as she arrived at the Met Gala in a white gown with layers of tulle and pearls with a long blush pink feather wrap Huntington-Whiteley recently detailed her struggle to lose her pregnancy weight after giving birth to son Jack in June 2017. Jack's father is her fiance, British actor and Hollywood action star Jason Statham. 'I gained a lot of weight; a lot more than people around me expected. I do not regret it but I had a long way to go once I was cradling the baby,' she told Harper's Bazaar UK. 'It took a year of training and discipline. Im not joking,' she explained. 'It took a year to the month to lose every single pound. Even after that, it took several more months before I could go on a shoot and feel good. She went on to tell the publication: Now my perception of what I thought of as feeling great and looking great has shifted.' 'Im stronger, both physically and mentally. I feel, probably for the first time, that Im a woman rather than a girl. Its been a really great shift to see myself in the mirror and to be OK with the imperfections. He is currently supporting Post Malone on his sold out Australian tour. And before playing their first show in Sydney this week, Jaden Smith, 20, looked pensive as he enjoyed a rolled-up cigarette at Bondi Beach on Tuesday. The American rapper appeared to have combined his smoking break with his love for surfing, as he sat on the iconic sand with his wet suit half undone. Jaden Smith smoked a rolled-up cigarette on Bondi Beach on Tuesday afternoon, ahead of his performance supporting Post Malone at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena Jaden flaunted his latest unique hairstyle - a short blonde cut shaped into a dogleg - as he looked in a thoughtful manner across the beach. He added to his attire by wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the words 'Syre: A Beautiful Confusion' - a reference to his debut album. Hours later, the superstar wowed almost 20,000 people while opening for Post Malone at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena. In what will be a relief to his fans, the bandage he wore on his left hand during his Melbourne gig on April 30 was nowhere to be seen. Eccentric look: Jaden flaunted his latest unique hairstyle - a short blonde cut shaped into a dogleg - as he looked in a thoughtful manner across the beach Promotional game: He added to his beach-side attire by wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the words 'Syre: A Beautiful Confusion' - a reference to his debut album The son of Hollywood superstar Will Smith was also pictured walking along the beach promenade, wearing a bright pink hoodie and grey shorts. In a pair of white trainers, Jaden looked casual as he soaked in the sights around the famous stretch of sand. His top read 'Syre died in the sunset, don't be like him' - a lyric from his song Lost Boy in his debut album. Phew! In what will be a relief to his fans, the bandage he wore on his left hand during his Melbourne gig on April 30 was nowhere to be seen Stylish: Jaden completed his look with a golden necklace and a blue pendant - as a passer-by appeared to gaze in surprise at him The star's trip to the Sydney beach comes after he caught some waves at Perth's Trigg Beach on April 27. And his mother Jada arrived in Australia last week while he was supporting Post Malone in Melbourne - with it believed she was joining her entrepreneurial son. Post Malone and Jaden's Australian tour finishes with concerts at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena on May 8 and 9 Surf's up! The superstar's trip to the Sydney beach comes after he caught some waves at Perth's Trigg Beach on April 27 Married At First Sight's Ning Surasiang has settled back into her normal life since appearing on the reality dating show. And on Wednesday, the 33-year-old shared a sultry selfie while she laid in bed with her cute pup after admitting she had drank too much wine. 'Whats a girl to do when shes full of cake and jiggle juice... Nap. Doesnt take much to impress me,' Ning wrote. Tired? Married At First Sight's Ning Surasiang shared a sultry selfie and exposed her cleavage while in bed with her dog after admitting to drinking too much red wine Showing off some cleavage, the former reality star donned a plain white singlet and flaunted her glowing complexion. Earlier that same day, Ning had a pamper day and went to get her eyebrows waxed while wearing her pajamas. Sharing a selfie to Instagram, she showed off her perfectly sculpted brows and patchy red skin that surrounded them. Brows on point! Earlier that same day, Ning had a pamper day and went to get her eyebrows waxed while wearing her pajamas 'Nothing more satisfying then getting your eyebrows waxed... now to walk around the shopping centre with a slight touch of pink. Ummm and Im so wearing my pyjama shirt shopping,' he caption read. Last week, the mother-of-three confirmed she is back at work as a hairdresser, taking to Instagram to share a photo of herself in a Just Cuts T-shirt. The single mother proudly posed in her uniform before heading out for an honest day's work on the shop floor in Townsville. Making the cut! Ning returned to her job as a hairdresser, taking to Instagram last week to share photo of herself in a Just Cuts T-shirt Just Cuts is a chain of affordable hair salons located throughout Australia and New Zealand. 'Ready for a big day in the office. Watch me snip watch me spray spray,' she captioned the photo. She also added the hashtags: 'Work ready', 'Selfie', 'New earrings' and 'hairdresser's life'. Ning rose to fame after appearing on season six of Australia's Married At First Sight only to be dumped by her on-screen husband Mark Scrivens. Kris Smith and his personal trainer girlfriend Sarah Boulazeris, 28, welcomed their first child together, Mila Elle, late last year. And on Wednesday, the 40-year-old male model shared an adorable photo of his darling daughter five months after she was born on December 4, 2018. In a photo shared to Instagram, Kris offered his 146,000 followers an update of the couple's growing bundle of joy, who was dressed in a stylish monochromatic ensemble. Scroll down for video 'She'll be hitting nightclubs before I know it!' Kris Smith shared an adorable photo of five-month-old daughter Mila Elle (pictured) with girlfriend Sarah Boulazeris Mila looked as cute as a button in a pint-sized logo T-shirt and a pair of black leggings. The doting parents added a number of sweet touches to Mila's outfit, including a white top knot headband and a pair of black animal booties. The baby girl sat in a trendy handwoven changing basket alongside her favourite fluffy toys. 'She'll be hitting nightclubs before I know it,' Kris wrote in the caption alongside several touching hashtags, including, 'daddy's girl' and 'love'. Just last month, Kris announced he and Sarah had decided to move their family to Melbourne. 'It was hard to leave beautiful Sydney!' Model Kris (R) and girlfriend Sarah Boulazeris (L) recently relocated to Melbourne to raise newborn daughter Mila Elle (M) 'We did it, we uprooted the whole family our whole life's and we moved back to Melbourne,' Chris told his fans. The Myer model and Sarah have been dating since 2017, and have been living in Sydney for that duration. 'It was hard to leave the beautiful Sydney beaches and weather, but Melbourne is now to be our home...Looking forward to this new chapter,' he added. On the move! The couple shared a photo of Sarah at the airport with a stack of suitcases as she carried their little girl in a baby carrier on her chest 'It was hard to leave the beautiful Sydney beaches and weather': Kris and Sarah said they would miss Sydney, but were excited for their 'next chapter' in Melbourne with baby Mila The couple shared a photo of Sarah at the airport with a stack of suitcases as she carried their little girl in a baby carrier on her chest. Kris later shared a sneak peek of the family's Melbourne residence, as he said: 'those new house feels.' The model has been doting over his five-month-old daughter since Sarah gave birth to her late last year. Proud dad! In addition to baby Mila, Kris shares an eight-year-old son, Ethan, with former girlfriend, performer Dannii Minogue In addition to baby Mila, Kris shares an eight-year-old son, Ethan, with former girlfriend, performer Dannii Minogue. Kris and personal trainer Sarah have been dating since 2017, not long after Kris split with model Maddy King. Before that, the English hunk was in a long-term relationship with Dannii Minogue from 2008 to 2012. She is the daughter of acting heavyweights Trevor Eve and Sharon Maughan. And Alice Eve was sure to show her support for her famous father, as she joined him at the launch for his new book Lomita For Ever at Hatchards in London on Tuesday. The actress, 37, looked striking in a layered bright pink dress as she posed lovingly by her 67-year-old actor father's side. Glamorous: Alice Eve looked quirky in a layered pink dress as she supported her father Trevor at the launch of his debut novel Lomita For Ever in London on Tuesday Alice's halterneck dress had a plunging neckline to show a glimpse of her cleavage, while the ensemble's puffy skirt highlighted her slender legs. The Star Trek Into Darkness actress boosted her height in a pair of black sandals, and she kept her accessories minimal to keep attention on her bright ensemble. Her blonde locks were styled into a pin-straight bob with a middle parting, and Alice used light touches of make-up to highlight her pretty features. Striking: Alice's halterneck dress had a plunging neckline to show a glimpse of her cleavage, while the ensemble's puffy skirt highlighted her slender legs Devoted daughter: The actress, 37, looked striking as she posed lovingly by her 67-year-old actor father's side Meanwhile, Trevor kept things simple by wearing a black shirt, trousers, and slip-on shoes for the outing, while his wispy grey locks were swept back. Lomita For Ever is Trevor's debut novel, a dark philosophical thriller that takes place in Los Angeles about a man seeking out the truth behind his father's death. Also in attendance at the event was his wife Sharon Maughan, their film director son Jack, and their musician son George. Family values: Also in attendance at the event was his wife Sharon Maughan, their film director son Jack (far right), and their musician son George (far left) Minimalist: The Star Trek Into Darkness actress boosted her height in a pair of black sandals, and she kept her accessories minimal to keep attention on her bright ensemble Talented actress Alice relocated stateside in 2010, when she landed the role of bra-hating Irish nanny Erin in Sex and The City 2. She has since been seen in a host of high profile movies including Men In Black 3 and Star Trek: Into Darkness. In 2014, Alice married financier Alex Cowper-Smith, her secondary school sweetheart whom she met while attending Westminster School in London - however they later parted ways after just three years of marriage. Tucking in: Alice was pictured leaving London's 34 Mayfair restaurant ahead of meeting her father Showing her support: She looked stunning as she clutched her dad's book in her hand The couple met at school but only reunited as a couple in 2014, before finally tying the knot in a small ceremony on New Year's Eve in 2014. They finalised the divorce last year, after which the blonde beauty admitted she felt as though she had a 'rebirth'. Alice was previously in a long-term relationship with poet Adam O'Riordan, who she met while reading English at Oxford University. She's dramatically switched up her look since appearing on Married At First Sight. And on Wednesday, Ines Basic once again looked almost unrecognisable compared to her former self. The 29-year-old took a selfie after getting her hair done at a Gold Coast salon, which showed her with noticeably longer hair and much plumper pout. New hair, who's this? Married At First Sight villain Ines Basic looked dramatically different after a trip to a hair salon on Wednesday The star wore a white top which emphasised the juxtaposition of her raven hair, which cascaded down in waves past her shoulders. 'I dropped into Trendz Hair for a quick blow wave & treatment before [my flight]. Thank you!' she wrote in the caption. While the glamorous new look may be down to an Instagram filter, Ines has made no secret that she has enhanced her looks in other ways since appearing on the hit reality show. My, how you've changed! Ines looked dramatically different on the hit reality show Married At First Sight, admitting to undergoing several cosmetic procedures since the show wrapped Who's that girl? Ines has used a combination of cosmetic enhancements and flattering iPhone filters to transform her looks In an Instagram Q&A with her followers last month, the brunette admitted to using cosmetic enhancements to plump up her lips. 'I've been seeing the girls at Injex Clinics for many years now,' she wrote. 'I only get 0.5mil (filler). I have tried 1mil on multiple occasions, though.' Ines is far from the only MAFS bride to admit to supersizing their pout via cosmetic treatments. Go big or go home! Ines Basic has been showing off a noticeably larger pout recently, sharing a series of pouty videos of herself on Instagram Tracey Jewel, Jessika Power, Martha Kalifatidis and many more have all admitted to plumping their pouts with fillers. In a telling sign that Married At First Sight favours artificial beauties during the casting process, applications for the series ask applicants if they've ever had cosmetic surgery. Ines arguably the most controversial star in the history of Married At First Sight. Flashback: Ines had a simple, less glamorous visage at the beginning of Married At First Sight (pictured) And since entering the spotlight, the reality TV villain has started turning her infamy into cash by promoting popular fashion brands on social media. The 29-year-old's status as a style icon is hardly a surprise given that many of her memorable MAFS outfits sold-out in stores overnight, with viewers desperate to recreate her iconic looks. The Bosnian beauty recently shared a few sponsored Instagram posts with her 154,000 followers, spruiking trendy brands like Nana Judy and Peppermayo. According to social analytics website InfluencerFee, Ines could be raking in upwards of $450 per sponsored post. Last month I was proud to host more than 70 leaders from 58 science and technology organisations in Sydney to craft a unified platform for science policy ahead of the Federal election on 18 May. Together we compared priorities and came away with four shared positions that we would like to see adopted by each of the major parties: a whole-of-government plan for science and technology; a strategy to equip the future Australian workforce with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills; strong investment in fundamental and applied research; and a commitment to creating policy across all portfolios that is informed by the best available evidence. This also included specific targets, such as aiming to spend a minimum of 3% of GDP on research and development by 2030, commitments to reverse cuts and secure investment in government research and funding agencies, scoping for a Research Translation Fund to support commercialisation and research translation in non-medical areas, and improvements to foster a diverse, inclusive and equitable sector. The 201920 Federal Budget and the Opposition reply that followed were opportunities for the major parties to pitch their vision for science. Both clearly signalled that science and technology are not front-of-mind for our major parties. The... Actress Matilda Brown, the daughter of acting legend Bryan Brown, is due to give birth to her first child with My Kitchen Rules' Scott Gooding any day now. And as they prepare for their new addition, both Matilda, 32, and Scott, 43, have been intimately documenting each milestone on Instagram. And it isn't just Matilda who has been baring all with revealing bump selfies, as Scott has also been stripping naked for posts in recent months. Is this Australia's most revealing couple? Bryan Brown's pregnant daughter Matilda (L) and My Kitchen Rules star Scott Gooding (R) have been baring all on Instagram in recent months Australian's may best recognise Matilda from starring alongside her famous father in short film series, Lessons from the Grave, in 2014. However, these days, her main leading role is that of an expectant mother. 'Just hanging out with my watermelon,' wrote Matilda on one recent selfie, lifting up her pajamas in bed to showcase her burgeoning bump. Not shy! And as they prepare to become parents, both Matilda, 32, and Scott, 43, have been documenting each step of the way on Instagram. Pictured Matilda at four months in November 'Just hanging out with my watermelon,' wrote Matilda on this selfie last week, lifting up her pajamas in bed to showcase her burgeoning bump Relaxing! In this post from April, mum-to-be Matilda is seen posing in a bikini, discussing the 'wild ride' her pregnancy has been so far in the caption In a post from April, mum-to-be Matilda is seen posing in a bikini, discussing the 'wild ride' her pregnancy has been so far in the caption. Shortly after announcing her happy news last year, Matilda went on to debut her bump by sharing a topless mirror selfie in November. Scott, who starred on season four of My Kitchen Rules in 2013, is also not shy when it comes to social media. His Toilet Rules? On April 9th, Scott, who starred on My Kitchen Rules in 2013, shared a video in the bathroom while completely naked to promote his personal training business Free! In February, Matilda even shared this naked photograph of Scott by a lake Not long left! Matilda is due to give birth to their first child together any day now On April 09, the hunk shared a video while sat on the toilet completely naked to promote his personal training business. Matilda has also previously shared a naked photograph of Scott by a lake. Speaking to The Daily Telegraph on Monday, Scott admitted he is both 'nervous' and 'excited' about welcoming a child with Matilda. 'I want to meet him and see his little face,' he gushed. She welcomed baby Frida in June last year after a decade-long battle with IVF, and will soon celebrate her child's first birthday alongside her other half. And Brigitte Nielsen shared a kiss with her husband Mattia Dessi, before enjoying a lunch date together in Studio City, Los Angeles, on Tuesday. The Danish actress, 55, gave her beau, 40, a quick smooch as they headed to the eatery, after the pair had arrived at the venue on the back of Mattia's Vespa. Brigitte Nielsen, 55, shared a kiss with husband Mattia Dessi, 40, while out in Los Angeles on Tuesday, as couple gear up for daughter Frida's first birthday after decade-long IVF battle Brigitte looked chic in a white co-ord suit during the outing, and it had black racer stripes along the sides to give her outfit a glamorous flourish. Her platinum blonde locks were slicked back into a pompadour style, and she kept her look low-key by wearing a pair of stylish shades. Mattia matched his wife's casual chic style choices, as he stepped out in olive green jogging trousers, an army-print jacket, and a matching cravat. Though they arrived on a scooter together, Brigitte headed back in a car after their meal while Mattia drove his Vespa. Making an entrance: The pair had arrived at the venue on the back of Mattia's motorcycle Chic: Brigitte looked chic in a white co-ord suit, which had black racer stripes along the sides to give her outfit a glamorous flourish Dapper: Mattia matched his wife's casual chic style choices, as he stepped out in olive green jogging trousers, an army-print jacket, and a matching cravat Stylish: Brigitte's platinum blonde locks were slicked back into a pompadour style, and she kept her look low-key by wearing a pair of stylish shades After welcoming their first child together last year, Brigitte spoke candidly about the relief she felt from falling pregnant at last and giving birth at the age of 54. Speaking to the Guardian in February she explained that having Mattia completely on-board with her journey, meant that she was able to endure all she had to go through. She said: 'You're on a lot of medication. It is very expensive. Hormones will do different things to different women. 'You always think you are going to get pregnant, but most of the time, the phone call comes and it's "I'm sorry". It's devastating.' Finishing touches: Brigitte stepped out in black flip flops, while she added to her monochrome theme by carrying a black handbag with a heart-print design Smitten: Brigitte and Mattia looked at each other sweetly before grabbing a bite together Going home: Though they arrived on a motorbike, after their meal Brigitte headed back in a car Nice ride: Mattia's Vespa was sure to turn heads thanks to its sleek design Brigitte was advised by her doctor not to tell anyone when she did fall pregnant, until she was 27 weeks along, so she didn't even tell her own mother. She admits to having to fight against some of the criticism she has faced after becoming a mother later in life. She said: 'Some find it ridiculous, some find it awful and some love it. I don't think it's anyone's business. It's my husband and my life and we love what we do.' Safety first: Mattia made sure he kept safe as he put on a helmet before getting on his bike Ladie's first: Mattia held the door open for Brigitte as she got into her car after their lunch Heidi Latcham was recently linked to Dr Chris Brown, but now the Married At First Sight star is claiming that she has a secret admirer. Talking on her radio show, SeaFM's BarRat and Heidi on Wednesday, Heidi couldn't contain her excitement as she recounted the moment a gift was delivered to her work from a mystery man. 'Yesterday I got a phone call. Some of the ladies [at work] called me and there was a big kerfuffle and they said, "Oh my God, oh my God, you've got a bunch of flowers delivered",' she said. A secret admirer! Married At First Sight's Heidi Latcham reveals she was sent flowers and a card to her work by a mystery man 'And they said, "There's also a card" and I said, "Oh I'm so excited!".' While the 38-year-old said that she loved the surprise, she held back on revealing too much about what the card said inside. 'To the vivacious Miss Latcham,' she said it begun with. Excited: Heidi couldn't contain her excitement as she recounted the moment a gift was delivered to her work from a mystery man. Pictured: Heidi with SeaFM co-host BarRat 'And then it reads beautiful words, I'm not going to read them out because they're private,' she added. The stranger reportedly paid someone else $20 to deliver the gift to her radio offices. 'They wanted it to be more romantic and more like those Meg Ryan/Tom Hanks movies!' Heidi exclaimed to her co-host. Over it: A source close to Heidi told NW Magazine recently that 'Heidi is so done with all the Mike [Gunner] drama. She's ready to put that chapter of her life behind her and move on' The revelation comes after it was reported that Heidi had begun seeing Dr Chris Brown. The radio personality was apparently introduced to the I'm A Celebrity host, 40, through a mutual friend and they've already been on 'a few sneaky dates'. According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Heidi has been meeting up with Chris when she travels to Sydney from her home on the Sunshine Coast. 'It's still early days, but word is they've been on a few sneaky dates while she's been down in Sydney visiting Cam [Merchant] and Jules [Robinson],' a source told NW. New love? According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Heidi has been meeting up with Dr Chris Brown when she travels to Sydney from her home on the Sunshine Coast 'Heidi is so done with all the Mike [Gunner] drama. She's ready to put that chapter of her life behind her and move on,' they added. The insider claimed that Heidi, who left home at 16 and struggled with the foster care system, is attracted to Chris' stable background. 'Chris comes from a stable family, something that Heidi craves. It was one of the major things she found so attractive about Mike,' said the source. InStyle Australia held their annual Women Of Style awards on Wednesday night. And the event, in association with Audi, drew an A-list crowd in Sydney, with some of Australia's biggest stars dressing to impress as they hit the red carpet. Phoebe Burgess, Sam Frost and Elyse Knowles were just some of the familiar faces putting their best fashion foot forward at the star-studded gala. A night to remember! Sam Frost (L) and Elyse Knowles (R) led the glamorous arrivals at InStyle Australia's Women Of Style awards in Sydney on Wednesday night Phoebe Burgess made quite the arrival as she stepped onto the red carpet. Wearing a gown by Australian designer Toni Maticevski, the blonde twirled around to showcase the layered sheer detail. After recently reuniting with husband Sam Burgess, the mum-of-two couldn't contain her smile while enjoying a rare night away from her family. Hot stuff! Wearing a gown by Australian designer Toni Maticevski, Phoebe Burgess twirled around to showcase the layered sheer detail Overjoyed! After recently reuniting with husband Sam Burgess, the mum-of-two couldn't contain her smile while enjoying a rare night away from her family Flawless! Phoebe showcased her flawless visage while posing for photographs Top model Elyse Knowles sent pulses racing in a bejeweled golden dress. The sleeved frock was designed by Australian fashion house, Alin Le Kal. She accessorised the thigh-skimming number with a pair of strappy golden heels, while styling her blonde hair down in loose waves. Sam Frost stepped out in a creation by Australian designer Carla Zampatti. Golden girl! Australian model Elyse sent pulses racing in a bejeweled dress by Alin Le Kal Model moves! Elyse accessorised the thigh-skimming number with a pair of strappy golden heels, while styling her blonde hair down in loose waves The Home and Away actress drew attention to the piece with a bold smokey eye, pulling her hair into a top knot to accentuate her flawless complexion. Taking to Instagram before the event, Sam wrote: 'So excited for the Women of Style Awards tonight, celebrating brilliant women shaping our future.' Anna Heinrich, who found fame on The Bachelor, stunned in a Rachel Gilbert design. The dress, titled Lou Lou Gown, does not hit shops until later this year and features a colourful floral print and lace-up back. Hot stuff! Sam Frost stepped out in a creation by Australian designer Carla Zampatti Wow! The Home and Away actress drew attention to the piece with a bold smokey eye, pulling her hair into a top knot to accentuate her flawless complexion Reality crowd! The Bachelor's Anna Heinrich stunned in a Rachel Gilbert design First look! The dress, titled Lou Lou Gown, does not hit shops until later this year and features a colourful floral print and lace-up back Television presenter Angela Bishop was certainly in a mood to celebrate. Teasing a hint of cleavage in a vibrant floral dress, the 51-year-old dazzled while posing for photographers on the red carpet. Just days earlier, Angela celebrated 30 years at Channel 10. She can pull it off! Jesinta Franklin later proved why she's one of Australia's top models, making a sleeveless black blazer, lace skirt and fishnet stockings look hot Floral delight! Television presenter Angela Bishop dazzled on the red carpet Classy lady! Elsewhere, Melissa Doyle cut an elegant figure in a floor length black gown Meanwhile, Melissa Doyle cut an elegant figure in a floor length black dress. The Australian television presenter's neutral makeup palette complimented the look, accessoring with several silver bracelets and a grey clutch bag. Alongside Melissa, presenter Ksenija Lukich opted for a daring combination, styling a strapless grey top with flared black trousers and winged eyeliner. Making a statement! TV presenter Ksenija Lukich opted for a daring combination, styling a strapless grey top with flared black trousers and winged eyeliner Twinning! Michelle Bridges (left) and Layne Beachley (right) opted for the exact same dress in different colours Michelle Bridges brought an additional touch of glamour to the event. The personal trainer sparkled in a figure-hugging nude dress with glittering stripes. Unfortunately for Michelle, the dress also proved popular with Layne Beachley, who wore the exact same design in a different colour. Looking good! Meanwhile, Samantha Armytage kept it classy in an all-black attire Stylish! The Sunrise presenter was the picture of sophistication, teaming a skater skirt with a sparkling sequined blouse Elsewhere, Samantha Armytage kept it classy with an all-black attire. The Sunrise presenter was the picture of sophistication, teaming a skater skirt with a sparkling sequined blouse. Jesinta Franklin later proved why she's one of Australia's top models, making a sleeveless black blazer, lace skirt and fishnet stockings look hot. Red hot! Julie Bishop made a bold statement in a high-cut red gown, showcasing her bronzed legs while striking a pose in the flirty look alongside boyfriend David Panton Loved-up! Julie stared at David with much affection while posing for pictures Fashion! Natalie Bassingthwaighte looked angelic in a lilac dress with a bold red lip At the event, Julie Bishop made a bold statement in a high-cut red gown, showcasing her bronzed legs while striking a pose in the flirty look. The former foreign minister was joined by boyfriend David Panton, who looked dapper in a perfectly tailored tuxedo. She gazed adoringly into his eyes at one stage, after getting together in 2014. She's a professional at this! Model Victoria Lee stunned in a floor length white gown Gypsy style! Fashion icon Camilla Franks made one of the biggest statements of the night Natalie Bassingthwaighte looked angelic in a lilac dress with a bold red lip, whereas model Victoria Lee stunned in a floor length white gown. Camilla Franks made one of the biggest fashion statements of the night. It was hard to miss the Australia fashion icon, as she twirled around in a gypsy style dress with matching coat draped over her shoulders. Swapping the stage for the red carpet, songstress Amy Shark stunned in a gothic-inspired black dress with long train. Swapping the stage for the red carpet! Songstress Amy Shark stunned in a gothic-inspired black dress with long train Flash of colour! It was hard to miss Neighbours star April Rose Pengilly Designer move! The actress stepped out in Rachel Gilbert's Karolina Velvet Gown, which proved to be one of the evening's most vibrant looks It was hard to miss Neighbours star April Rose Pengilly. The actress stepped out in Rachel Gilbert's Karolina Velvet Gown, which proved to be one of the evening's most vibrant dresses. In contrast, media personality Sally Obermeder kept it a little simpler, with a stylish black skirt and red polka dot blouse. Cute! Sally Obermeder stepped out in a stylish black skirt and red polka dot blouse Terry Biviano put on an animated display while posing for pictures. The famous shoe designer showcased some serious winged eyeliner, which slightly distracted from her Toni Maticevski gown. Actress Phoebe Tonkin slipped into an interesting black dress with gold panels, with Kylie Gillies looking sleek in a tassled black dress. Lindy Klim made her flair for fashion known, wearing an eye-catching tiered black dress with silver strap and fishnet stockings. Party time! Terry Biviano put on an animated display while posing for pictures Bold! The famous shoe designer showcased some serious winged eyeliner, which distracted slightly from her Toni Maticevski gown Looking good! Actress Phoebe Tonkin slipped into an interesting black dress with gold panels Miranda Tapsell took the plunge in a black and silver V-neck dress. The Aboriginal Australian actress styled the sparkling Rachel Gilbert design with a pair of stylish strappy heels. Meanwhile, Natalie Barr provided a flash of colour in an eye-catching skirt from Flannel Australia, styled with a bold orange blouse. Actress Celeste Barber was joined by husband Api Robin, with the couple putting on a loved-up display on the red carpet. Stylish arrival! Kylie Gillies looked sleek in a tassled black dress Quirky! Lindy Klim showcased her flair for fashion, wearing an eye-catching tiered black dress with silver strap and fishnet stockings Taking centre stage! Actress Miranda Tapsell took the plunge in a black and silver V-neck dress The InStyle and Audi Women of Style Awards honours Australias most inspirational and innovative women. Alex Noonan, InStyle Acting Editor, said: 'This year we will be recognising the women who are future shapers across 10 bespoke categories. 'The women who will be recognized this year will hail from a diverse range of industries, including science, technology, business, fashion and entertainment.' 'They are each incredibly passionate, dedicated and showcase how style can exist in many forms.' What a delight! Natalie Barr provided a flash of colour in an eye-catching skirt from Flannel Australia, styled with bold orange blouse Date night! Actress Celeste Barber was joined by husband Api Robin, with the couple putting on a loved-up display on the red carpet Kate Winslet is set to star in a remake of Black Beauty alongside Mackenzie Foy, who was last seen on screen The Nutcracker and the Four Realms. The Oscar-winning actress, 43, and the rising star, 18, signed onto the reboot of Anna Sewell's childrens classic on Tuesday, it was reported by Variety. In the new film, the Titanic star will voice the horse's inner thoughts, while Mackenzie will take on the role of the 17-year-old lead Jo. New project: Kate Winslet signed onto the remake of classic children's novel Black Beauty alongside rising star Mackenzie Foy on Tuesday Mackenzie's character is set to bond with Black Beauty following the death of her parents, and their friendship will help the teen come to terms with her grief. While the original novel is focused on a carriage horse, the remake will instead focus on a wild mustang in the Wyoming Plains. Ashley Avis, who previously directed Adolescence, will both write and direct the live-action remake, while Resident Evil's Jeremy Bolt and Robert Kulzer are producing it. Black Beauty has previously been adapted multiple times, with five versions of the story made into films since 1921 - the last of which was released in 1994. Drama: Kate will voice the horse's inner thoughts, while Mackenzie (pictured) will take on the role of the 17-year-old lead Jo who bonds with Black Beauty following her parent's deaths Popular story: Black Beauty has previously been adapted multiple times, with five versions of the story made into films since 1921 - the last of which was released in 1994 Kate is currently enjoying a very busy schedule, as she has been filming lesbian period drama Ammonite opposite Saoirse Ronan. In the film Kate plays Mary Anning, an English fossil collector, dealer, and palaeontologist, opposite Charlotte Murchison a Scottish amateur geologist played by Saoirse. Despite being in the early stages of filming, Ammonite has already faced criticism for a central storyline focusing on a lesbian affair involving Anning and Murchison. Barbara Anning, a distant niece who still lives near the Jurassic Coast where the fossil hunter made many discoveries, insisted there was no proof she was ever in a same-sex relationship. Busy schedule: Kate is currently filming lesbian period drama Ammonite opposite Saoirse Ronan in Lyme Regis, United Kingdom She said: 'The lesbian storyline is pure Hollywood as far as I know and there was no suggestion that she was a lesbian at all. That's just what they do I suppose.' Anning's niece had previously written on an online forum: 'I do not believe there is any evidence to back up portraying her as a gay woman... I believe Mary Anning was abused because she was poor, uneducated and a woman. Is that not enough?' Experts and fans of her work are also upset, claiming the paleontologist, who never married or had children, was 'interesting enough' without needing her life spiced up for the sake of a film. A fan society dedicated to the fossil finder called Mary Anning Rocks also objected to the plotline, including Harvard University geologist Bretton Carter, who said: 'I have mixed feelings about this movie. 'Being gay, I'm all about the inclusion of LGBTQ characters, but I feel like Mary Anning is an interesting enough person as she is, they didn't have to throw in same-sex affair with her (as it has no known historical basis).' Anning is known for making major discoveries in Jurassic marine fossil beds in the cliffs at Lyme Regis and Charmouth. Her work contributed to important changes in scientific thinking about prehistoric life, however, due to being a woman, she was prevented form joining the Geological Society of London and did not receive full credit for her findings. It is also thought she was the inspiration for the 1908 tongue-twister 'She sells seashells on the seashore' by Terry Sullivan. Directed by Francis Lee, Ammonite is expected to go on general release in 2020. He affectionately gave her the moniker Holly Willoughbooby on Celebrity Juice more than a decade ago. And host Keith Lemon, 46, and his sidekick Paddy McGuinness, 45, couldn't resist teasing the This Morning presenter with a cheeky Instagram snap on Tuesday. The pair plucked out Holly's portrait in a corridor at ITV and took a selfie licking her breasts. Bad behaviour! Celebrity Juice host Keith Lemon, 46, and his sidekick Paddy McGuinness, 45, couldn't resist teasing Holly Willoughby with a cheeky Instagram snap on Tuesday Captioning the snap, Keith wrote: 'There she is'. However, the television presenter seemed to have a change of heart, swiftly deleting the naughty picture from his page. Celebrity Juice captain Holly, who has starred on the show since 2008, previously said she was 'proud' to have her Willoughbooby nickname. 'In all seriousness, it's very nice and I'm proud that a mother who has breastfed children can have that accolade...if you can call it that,' she told the Mail On Sunday in 2016. Nickname: Keith affectionately gave her the moniker Holly Willoughbooby on Celebrity Juice more than a decade ago (pictured with old team captain Ferne Cotton in 2011) Paddy took over from Ferne Cotton as Celebrity Juice captain after the former left the show last year. The cheeky snap comes after Holly, 38, recalled her boob popping out of her dress during one unfortunate episode of Ministry Of Mayhem as well as vomiting live on air. The star admitted everyone in kids television stays up until the early hours partying and she would often head from the hotel bar straight to the studio. However Holly's stomach was often turned when she was made to try some revolting mixes such as anchovies and custard first thing in the morning. Proud: Celebrity Juice captain Holly, who has starred on the show since 2008, previously said she was 'proud' to have her Willoughbooby nickname 'It doesn't help when you read the script and you've got to drink anchovies in custard with some eight year old. No matter how hard you scrub in the shower, you can't get the smell of custard pie off your skin.' Ministry of Mayhem was a CITV children's game show which saw Holly dress as a French maid and even boast a cockney accent, encouraging her guests- and celebrity guests- to catapult sweet treats off a skateboard. The show was later renamed Holly & Stephen's Saturday Showdown, aired from January 2004 to July 2006, and also featured Michael Underwood. She told the Mail On Sunday's Live magazine: 'There were times when we went straight from the hotel bar to going live on air. 'Everyone in children's TV drinks until 5am. If you mess up, no one cares. It got a bit too wild when my breast popped out of my dress.' Her paedophile character Maya Stepney avoided death despite an ominous run-in with Leyla Harding after being caught kissing her teen son Jacob Gallagher. And Louisa Clein gave fans a behind-the-scenes look from the showdown between the two characters, as she shared snaps from the set via her Instagram on Tuesday. The actress, 40, showed off her dishevelled look and blood-spattered face in a selfie, as well as another picture from her trailer as the make-up team helped her prepare for the day's work. Intense: Emmerdale star Louisa Clein shared a behind-the-scenes look at paedophile Maya Stepney's dramatic showdown against Leyla Harding via Instagram on Tuesday Despite the traumatic scenes that lay ahead for her character, Louisa beamed as she took a selfie as one of the make-up artists assisted her. And in another image a crew member was seen dusting dirt onto her shoes to make it seem like she had been running in the forest. In the dramatic turn of events, Leyla hit Maya across the head with a rock which caused her to fall into a stream led Jacob's mum to believe she was dead, however on Tuesday night's episode it was revealed she had survived the incident. Grateful for the praise she received from fans about her performance, Louisa wrote on Instagram: 'Blown away by all your amazing messages about tonight's episode. Thank you. It was an epic intense cold and smelly experience made bearable by the best team and an owl.' Drama: Her paedophile character Maya Stepney avoided death despite an ominous run-in with Leyla Harding after being caught kissing teen Jacob Gallagher Getting ready: The actress, 40, showed off her dishevelled look and blood-spattered face in a selfie as the make-up department helped her prepare for the day's work In a good mood: Despite the traumatic scenes that lay ahead for her character, Louisa beamed as she took a selfie with one of the make-up artists assisting her Unhappy return: Fans remain convinced that paedophile Maya will return to the Emmerdale pregnant and with enough damning evidence to put Leyla behind bars On Tuesday fans also got to see a flashback to the Big Night Out which showed how Leyla enacted her revenge on the villainous teacher. Fans remain convinced that Maya will return to the Yorkshire village pregnant and with enough damning evidence to put Leyla behind bars. The fictional character, currently at the heart of a controversial grooming storyline, faces an uncertain future after being seen kissing Leyla's underage son Jacob Gallagher outside a Hotten nightclub. Preparation: In another image a crew member was seen dusting on dirt onto her shoes to make it seem like she had been running in the forest Happy: Grateful for the praise she received from fans about her performance, Louisa wrote on Instagram, 'Blown away by all your amazing messages about tonight's episode. Thank you' After the incident, a furious Leyla (played by Roxy Shahidi) tricked her into a 'car ride,' and fans believe Maya will return with the news she is carrying Jacob's (Joe-Warren Plant) baby - and some serious allegations regarding his mother. Taking to Twitter, one wrote: 'Either Leyla went back and finished Maya off after the others went home OR Maya told her she was pregnant and that's why Leyla is so determined they don't tell David or Jacob anything.' Another added: 'She aint dead. Come on, its not that easy, this is Emmerdale! I reckon Maya will turn up having been assaulted and tell everyone shes pregnant by Jacob. In the words of Rocky, It aint over til its over' Speculation: While she has not been seen since a furious Leyla tricked her into a 'car ride,' fans believe she will return with the news that she is carrying Jacob's baby While a third speculated: 'Layla is bluffing. No way Maya is dead. I'm still going with pregnant.' On Monday evening Leyla told a stunned Jacob she murdered Maya after being told about their fling. 'I know that your head must be spinning right now,' she tells her son following his return from Portugal. 'You have no need to be embarrassed. She is never going to hurt you again.' Revelation: On Monday evening Leyla told a stunned Jacob she murdered Maya after being told about their fling Confession: 'I know that your head must be spinning right now,' she tells her son following his return from Portugal After Jacob insisted Maya was innocent of any wrongdoing and she couldn't prevent them being together, she quickly assured him she could. 'Jacob that woman was a monster,' she said. 'I can and I already have. Shes dead. I killed her.' The show continues on Wednesday 8th, ITV at 7:00pm. Poppy Delevingne has admitted she almost quit acting as casting directors refused to take her seriously due to her modelling background. The 33-year-old star admitted it was 'very hard' to land roles before her breakout appearance in 2017's King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword, but is now 'so glad she persevered.' Poppy was a guest on Wednesday's This Morning with her Riviera co-star Julia Stiles, as the pair teased the long-awaited second series of the Sky Atlantic drama. Shocking: Poppy Delevingne has admitted she almost quit acting as casting directors refused to take her seriously due to her modelling background When asked whether she found it difficult transitioning from the world of modelling to acting, Poppy said: 'Very hard actually. 'I think that a lot of people, they see that modelling and acting is one industry so when I started it was really hard to get these casting directors to let me read for parts I was always trying to prove them wrong a little bit. 'I truly didn't think I got that audition. I turned to my husband and said screw this I can't do it anymore I will stick to modelling. But I'm glad I persevered.' Screen star: The model and actress, 33, was a guest on Wednesday's This Morning alongside her Riviera co-star Julia Stiles Amazing: Poppy explained that it was 'very hard' to land roles before her breakout appearance in 2017's King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword After her appearance in King Arthur, Poppy also landed a role in Kingsman: The Golden Circle, and has since gone onto establish herself as an actress and model. She is set to appear alongside Julia in the second series of Riviera, as a mysterious new member of the Elton family. Explaining her role to presenters Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby, Poppy said: 'I play a character called Daphne Elton, and my brother, my mother and husband we come to ruffle some feathers of the Clios clan.' Anticipated: The blonde beauty has joined the cast of Riviera for the second series, as a mysterious new member of the Elton family Dramatic: Julia also revealed that fans will see a darker side to her character Georgina Marjorie Clios, who committed murder in the first series Funny: Poppy admitted she wanted to appear on the show after binge-watching the entire first series on a ten hour flight from London to Los Angeles Explosive: Explaining her role Poppy added: 'She is corrupted by her circumstance but we discover in Season Two Georgina is not entirely as innocent as she would have you believe' The blonde beauty added: 'I watched [the first series] in one go, I was in the flight from London to Los Angeles and I watched the whole series, all ten episodes, on the ten hour flight. Julia also geared up fans for what they can expect after series one's heart-stopping cliffhanger, which saw Georgina Marjorie Clios murder her stepson Adam (played by Iwan Rheon). She explained: 'She has murdered someone and we find ourselves in Season Two picking up right where we left off and we are dealing with a woman who has to figure out how to get away with murder. Delighted: Poppy went onto say she is 'so glad she persevered' in landing acting roles after previously vowing that she would quit acting Explosive: The blonde beauty also gave Phil and Holly some insight into the raucous Met Gala which she attended on Monday evening 'She is corrupted by her circumstance but we discover in Season Two Georgina is not entirely as innocent as she would have you believe. She refuses to give up her position in the family, she delves into some risky territory very boldly.' Poppy also gave Phil and Holly some insight into the raucous Met Gala which she attended on Monday evening, saying she was most taken aback by Katy Perry's transition from a chandelier-themed outfit to one in the shape of an enormous burger. Julia's appearance on the show came after she welcomed her son Strummer in October last year and the star admitted she's fallen in love with motherhood despite being 'sleep deprived' during the early years. Riviera returns on Thursday 23rd May on Sky Atlantic. Chic: Poppy perfectly embodied her glamorous character with her choice of outfit for the daytime appearance, opting for a art deco-style blouse and flared white trousers both by Alberta Ferretti Jules Robinson has revealed an unlikely heartache following her rise to fame. On Wednesday, the Married At First Sight star told 9Honey she felt 'disappointed and betrayed' after a 'friend' recently 'leaked' pictures from her engagement party. During the chat, Jules also denied a recent claim she was 'paid $50,000 by Channel Nine' to give them exclusive access inside the event with fiance Cameron Merchant. 'It is really disappointing and a betrayal': MAFS' Jules Robinson (pictured) revealed a surprising heartache following her rise to fame during an interview with 9Honey on Wednesday Speaking of their star-studded bash, Jules said: 'Literally within a few hours someone had leaked photos from the inside out, which is very hurtful because it was a friend.' The business owner then confirmed they're 'obviously not a friend anymore', with the incident raising doubt on who the couple can 'trust' now they're famous. Jules and Cam held their engagement party at Camperdown Commons' Acre Eatery in Sydney on April 21, with '200 of their nearest and dearest' attending. No longer a friend! Jules expressed her hurt after a 'friend' recently 'leaked' pictures from inside her private engagement party with Cameron Merchant, which was held on April 21 Sad reality: The business owner then confirmed they're 'obviously not a friend anymore', with the incident raising doubt on who the couple can 'trust' now they're famous Following the event, which later aired exclusively on the Today show and Nine News, it was reported that the couple had 'cashed in' by televising the private party. Woman's Day claimed that they 'cut a deal with the TV network for $50,000 to allow them exclusive access inside' - but Jules strongly denies this. Instead, she says the couple did not charge Nine, admitting: 'For me, it's not about the public liking us, or wanting to see our relationship. It's just putting this fact straight, which is we did not make money from our engagement.' Not true: Jules also went on to deny a recent claim made by Woman's Day magazine that the couple 'cut a $50,000 deal' granting Nine exclusive access inside the party While on the subject, Jules reiterated that the couple 'did not make a single cent' from the party, with it costing them 'a lot of our own money'. Since appearing on the reality show, both Jules and Cameron have recently signed with a top talent agency in Sydney. On Saturday, Jules announced her plan to release a shapewear range in the near future, with Cameron hoping to get into TV or radio. She's been hot on the media train promoting her new movie John Wick: Chapter 3 Parabellum. And on Wednesday, Halle Berry was seen looking spicy in a bright red dress while appearing on the Today show in New York City. The 52-year-old actress wore gold heels as she dished on some behind the scenes looks at the upcoming film. Drop dead gorgeous: On Wednesday, Halle Berry, 52, was seen looking spicy in a bright red dress while appearing on the Today show in New York City Spotted in Midtown on her way to the talk show set, the actress was all dolled up in a fire hydrant red mini dress. The skirt of the piece flared out around the Catwoman star's muscular legs. On top, the dress fell in a blazer like fashion, coming down just below her elbows and opening to reveal a hint of cleavage. Red hot: Spotted in Midtown on her way to the talk show set, the actress was all dolled up in a fire hydrant red mini dress Click here for more. The hot mom of Maceo, 5, and Nahla, 11, accentuated her chest with a necklace containing a thin gold bar encrusted with rows of diamonds. And the gold of the jewelry paired nicely with her strapped gold heels. Berry's brown hair with blonde streaks was pulled back with strands curled on either side to frame her face. Halle looked content and pleased as she smiled during her outing before sitting down with Craig Melvin. Details: The hot mom of Maceo, 5, and Nahla, 11, accentuated her chest with a necklace containing a thin gold bar Happy girl: Halle looked content and pleased as she smiled during her outing Painful: After undergoing grueling stunt training and leaving with three damaged ribs, Halle revealed to Today all the challenges she faced while filming No doubt it was a busy day for Halle as she slipped into something much more comfortable on a later outing as she continued her promotional trail. She donned a distressed olive green military jacket and boyfriend jeans combination. Halle also made a statement with her look by sporting a grey shirt with 'here for a good time, not a long time' printed on it and white leather booties. Casual customer: No doubt it was a busy day for Halle as she slipped into something much more comfortable on a later outing as she continued her promotional trail Vibes: She donned a distressed olive green military jacket and boyfriend jeans combination The Ohio native stars as Sofia in the upcoming third installment of the neo-noir action thriller film franchise, which opens in less than two weeks. After undergoing grueling stunt training and leaving with three damaged ribs, Halle revealed to Today all the 'brutal' challenges she faced while filming. She said: 'I had broken ribs for probably 5 weeks an didnt really realize it just trying to tough it out like everybody else and then one day I dropped to the ground and couldnt breathe.' All smiles: Halle grinned from ear-to-ear while out in the Big Apple Making a statement: Halle sported a grey shirt with 'here for a good time, not a long time' printed on it After a quick break though, she was right back to the action, which according to the Oscar winner included 'Fight training, fire arm training, dog training it was just a full on, six month, all immersive experience.' But despite her injuries, this role was one Halle jumped at, even agreeing to do it before she had read the script. 'I was such a huge fan of John Wick one and two and I knew what would be required of me. It would give me the chance to kick ageism in the face,' she said. No cake walk: She said: 'I had broken ribs for probably 5 weeks an didnt really realize it just trying to tough it out like everybody else and then one day I dropped to the ground and couldnt breathe' Berry also discussed her goal to protect her kid's privacy as she avoids posting them on social media. 'I fought really hard to protect their privacy. I just want them to have their life and have it be theirs -- and also it's a safety issue. 'I just don't want to plaster them all over the internet, that just doesn't feel right for me, you know and they are going to do that soon enough. That's going to be their life when they grow up and they will choose when that starts,' she said. Outside of starring alongside The Matrix's leading man, Berry will also appear in Bruised, a film she heralds as the director for, and Sony Pictures' movie, Jagged Edge. Her directorial debut will feature the story of a mother fighting for her family. 'Its a continuation in my mind of John Wick its a film about an MMA fighter,' Berry explained. The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) is a multi-billion dollar international project to build the worlds largest radio telescope. Co-located primarily in South Africa and Western Australia, the SKA will be a collection of hundreds of thousands of radio antennas with a combined collecting area equivalent to approximately 1 km2. The project is one of the largest scientific endeavours in history and will be more than ten times more sensitive and much faster at surveying galaxies than any current radio telescope. The unprecedented flow of data from the telescope will be supported by supercomputing facilities with several times the processing speed of any current supercomputer and one trillion times the computing power that landed men on the Moon. The SKA will use two different configurations of radio antennas. Australias Murchison region will host the low-frequency component, while the mid-frequency infrastructure will be based in South Africas Karoo desert. Construction activities for the SKA is expected to commence in late 2020, with preliminary science results a few years after that. With its incredible sensitivity, the SKA will look back 13 billion years in time to the universes Dark Ages. The SKAs extraordinary sensitivity will allow us to indirectly study gravitational waves from powerful cosmic processes, such as a pair of orbiting black holes. The... Advertisement Taking a break from filming her latest television project, The Hypnotist's Love Story, Heather Graham went for an ocean dip in Tulum. While on her sun and sand filled getaway in Mexico on Wednesday, the blonde beauty held nothing back as she bared her voluptuous body in a sizzling white bikini. The 49-year-old The Hangover vet also lounged in a cabana and soaked in the ocean as she relished in her sunny vacation. Beach body: Heather Graham, 49, showed off her bikini body in a white bathing suit while vacationing in Mexico on Wednesday Reward: Taking a break from filming her latest television project, The Hypnotist's Love Story, Heather Graham went for a dip in Tulum Making her way to the waves, Graham rocked a two piece, snow white swimsuit, which tied in a halter around her neck. The Austin Powers' star's busty chest was on full display in the low cut top. Heather looked tanned and relaxed as she walked across the beach. Splish splash: Not afraid of getting wet, the Boogie Night actress dove straight into the water, pulling her bikini bottoms up after being engulfed in a wave Bathing beauty: Graham's hair slicked back against her head as she waded through the current Not afraid of getting wet, the Boogie Night actress dove straight into the water, pulling her bikini bottoms up after being engulfed in a wave. Graham's hair slicked back against her head as she waded through the current. Heather shared looks at her trip via social media throughout the week as well. Clearly enjoying herself, the beauty posted shots of her sipping from a coconut and stretching out with some yoga while beach side. In a face on photo, the Wisconsin native highlighted her freckles. Sunkissed: In a face on photo, the Wisconsin native highlighted her freckles BTS: Heather shared looks at her trip via social media throughout the week as well Fitness first: Clearly enjoying herself, the beauty posted shots of her sipping from a coconut and stretching out with some yoga while beach side ABC announced it was developing The Hypnotist's Love Story in October, based on the book by Big Little Lies author Liane Moriarty. The series follows a hypnotherapist named Ellen (Juliet Rylance), who is optimistic about her current boyfriend following a string of failed romances. A disturbing truth is revealed when stalker ex-girlfriend Sasha (Graham) comes into the picture and has been following her former beau for years. Liza Lapira, Skye P. Marshall, Jane Seymour and Adan Canto star alongside Heather in the thriller which has yet to receive a release date. She also stars in the upcoming movie The Rest Of Us, which is slated for release later this year. Heather rose to fame with roles in Boogie Nights, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me and The Hangover. Camilla Franks has made her first public appearance since undergoing treatment for breast cancer. The fashion designer, famed for her kaftan brand Camilla, stormed the red carpet at InStyle Australia's Women In Style Awards in Sydney on Wednesday night. The 42-year-old, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in May last year, looked radiant as she rocked new peroxide blonde hairstyle and a bold dress with leopard print and floral detail. A strong comeback! Fashion designer Camilla Franks looked defiant as she stepped out for the first time since battling breast cancer for the InStyle Awards in Sydney on Wednesday The kaftan, which was made by her own label, featured a plunging neckline and was cinched in at the waist with a chunky black belt that emphasised her physique. Draped over her shoulders was a matching jacket with leopard print detail around the collar, which featured matching floral patterns to her kaftan. Camilla teamed the look with quirky gold earrings and necklaces. Strong look: Camilla's kaftan, which was made by her own Camilla label, featured a plunging neckline and was perfectly draped over her physique Camilla's hair, which was cut very short and dyed blonde, was styled in a mohawk-quiff and sported edgy shaved sides. Her triumphant return comes after she spoke of her shock diagnosis back in February. Talking to Marie Claire, Camilla recounted the moment she was told by the doctors that she had breast cancer just three months after giving birth to her daughter, Luna. Rockstar! Camilla's hair, which was cut very short and dyed blonde, was styled in a mohawk-quiff and sported edgy shaved sides 'It kept growing. I was told over and over that it was mastitis [a painful infection of the breast tissue], but it wasn't mastitis,' she said. Despite the heartbreaking news, Camilla will never look back at that year with disdain. 'I was pregnant, I gave birth, I danced with the devil that is cancer... it was tough and it was challenging but, in a strange way, it was my greatest year yet,' she explained. Staying strong: Her triumphant return comes after she spoke of her shock diagnosis back in February, recounting the moment she was told by the doctors that she had breast cancer just three months after giving birth to her daughter, Luna While not giving any definitive answer on whether she is in remission, Camilla did finish the interview by saying 'there's still a journey ahead of me'. 'Cancer is part of my story now. I'm willing to accept that - and only those who have endured this raw fear and threat will understand what it means to live with it,' she said. She announced the shock cancer news in May 2018 and revealed she would begin treatment under one of the country's leading oncologists 'very shortly'. Shock announcement: Camilla announced the shock cancer news in May 2018, just three months after giving birth to Luna 'I start on this journey humble but resilient; I would be lying if I said I wasn't scared but I am fearlessly determined to do whatever it takes by focusing on my body, mind and spirit as I take my first trusting steps towards recovery,' she said. Camilla shares daughter Luna Gypsy with her fiance, artist JP Jones. The designer's kaftans have turned into a multi-million dollar business empire, with 20 retail stores Australia-wide, and a 200-strong workforce. He's the king of all media. And Howard Stern questioned his own mortality and a potential empty throne after a cancer scare landed him in the hospital for a risky surgery in 2017, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The 65-year-old radio personality was consumed with death after doctors found a growth on his kidney, which prompted Stern to evaluate his life behind the microphone and pen a series of his favorite interviews in his first book in more than two decades, Howard Stern Comes Again. Hey Now: Howard Stern questioned his own mortality and a potential empty throne after a cancer scare landed him in the hospital in 2017, according to The Hollywood Reporter The massive Stern fan network was full of speculation when Howard missed a day on his show in May 2017, something he's rarely done before as he regularly boasts about his impeccable track record at work. While Howard made fun of his absence the following week and asked his audience why 'is it such a big deal that I took a f***ing day off', it turns out that listeners were right to assume something was wrong. Stern had spent the previous year carting back-and-forth to appointments to monitor a 'low white blood cell count' and when doctors discovered a growth that was '90 percent' cancerous, Howard was understandably distraught. 'And now all I'm thinking is, "I'm going to die,"' he told Lacey Rose during a sit-down. 'And I'm scared s***less.' Stop the clock: The 65-year-old was consumed with death after doctors found a growth on his kidney, which prompted Stern to evaluate his life behind the microphone and pen a series of his favorite interviews in his first book in more than two decades, Howard Stern Comes Again Oh my: Howard's health scare inspired his new book, which takes readers through a journey of his best interviews over the course of four decades in the ever-changing radio industry Howard's health scare inspired his new book, which takes readers through a journey of his best and favorite interviews over the course of four decades in the ever-changing radio industry. And like his business, Stern's personally evolved through the years from the 'shock-jock' title to a highly-coveted interviewer through his SiriusXM Satellite Radio show. "I was so completely f***ed up back then," he said. 'I didn't know what was up and what was down, and there was no room for anybody else on the planet.' He regularly credits years of therapy for his changing perspective, and questions what's next to come after his contract expires at the end of 2020. Do it live: And like his business, Stern's personally evolved through the years from the 'shock-jock' title to a highly-coveted interviewer through his SiriusXM Satellite Radio show 'To walk away from what I'm good at? I don't even know that I have it 100 percent right yet,' the perfectionist said. 'And maybe there's more to explore' 'I'm at a place now where I am trying to figure out how to spend the rest of my life, however long that might be,' he said. 'It seems weird to me not to have this.' Howard has spent the last few years diving into hobbies to keep him entertained while off the air, and recently took up painting after obsessing over chess and photography, but still questions how he will fill his days away from the microphone. 'To walk away from what I'm good at? I don't even know that I have it 100 percent right yet,' the perfectionist said. 'And maybe there's more to explore.' His third book (Private Parts was released in 1993 and Miss America followed two years after) is already crushing industry standards as 'the fastest seller of the year in terms of pre-orders' is set to be released through publisher Simon & Schuster on May 14. Sweet love: Howard and Beth Ostrosky have been married for more than a decade and their wedding at Le Cirque in 2008 was officiated by Mark Consuelos; seen in November He said one of his greatest regrets is his interview with the late Robin Williams. 'I loved Robin Williams, but there I am beating him over the head with, like, "Hey, I hear you're f***ing your nanny?" I could have had a great conversation, but I'm playing to the audience,' said Stern. 'They want to hear outrageousness, and that's my arrogance thinking that Robin Williams can't entertain my audience. How stupid am I?' He said that he is now filled with regret about his behavior in those days. 'I was a nervous f***ing wreck, ready to jump out a window,' revealed Stern. 'Every issue race, religion, sexuality was dealt with as honestly and openly as possible to the detriment of everything around me. I was like scorched earth, trying to be heard like the mountain that roared.' She's no stranger to dazzling in show-stopping ensembles, both on camera and at high-profile events. And Victoria Beckham maintained her style savvy ways as she stepped out for another day of business meetings in New York City on Wednesday afternoon. The fashion designer, 45, commanded attention as she slipped into an eye-catching two-piece fresh from her eponymous brand, embellished with multi-coloured floral printing throughout. Fashion maven: Victoria Beckham maintained her style savvy ways as she stepped out for another day of business meetings in New York City on Wednesday afternoon Turning heads during her outing in the Big Apple, Posh Spice's ensemble - which retails at a whopping 2,175 - featured skinny trousers and a belted maxi coat, complete with quirky puff-ball sleeves. The wife of former sportsman David Beckham boosted her frame in a pair of silver sky-high stilettos, and protected her eyes from the sun in her signature gradient-tinted shades. With her tresses styled into an effortlessly chic updo, the mother-of-four complemented her radiant visage with dewy foundation and a slick of nude lipgloss. Victoria's stylish appearance comes amid claims she has banned her family from attending the Spice Girls reunion tour, according to The Sun. She's got it! The fashion designer, 45, commanded attention as she slipped into an eye-catching two-piece from her eponymous brand, embellished with multi-coloured floral printing throughout Wow-factor! Turning heads during her outing in the Big Apple, Posh Spice's ensemble - which retails at a whopping 2,175 - featured skinny trousers and a belted maxi coat, complete with quirky puff-ball sleeves Standing tall: The wife of former sportsman David Beckham boosted her frame in a pair of silver sky-high stilettos After a busy day of business meetings Victoria strutted back to her to her hotel Flower power: Victoria took to Instagram to tell fans the co-ord was her favourite 'floral look for the summer' Oh so chic: Posh Spice sported her signature oversized shades A source told the publication the fashion mogul wants 'a clean break' from her time with the band, and may not be in the country to attend the show despite an invitation from Geri Horner. Spice Girls members Geri, Mel B, Mel C and Emma Bunton have been keeping busy rehearsing for their long-awaited tour, kicking off in Dublin on May 24. The insider explained: 'Geri reached out to Victoria, and invited her parents and the kids to a gig at her own expense. 'But Victoria doesn't want them attending or being pictured at the event, and the narrative being that she snubbed the girls. Strutting her stuff: The Spice Girl was greeted by adoring fans as headed into her hotel Famous family: Victoria shares Brooklyn, 20, Romeo, 16, and Cruz, 14, and Harper, seven, with husband David, 44 'She just wants a clean break from it all, and doesn't want her name, or her family's, attached in any way, shape or form.' MailOnline contacted representatives for Victoria and Geri for comment at the time of publication. Despite the claims, Victoria, who shares Brooklyn, 20, Romeo, 16, and Cruz, 14, and Harper, seven, with husband David, 44, previously said she would be going to watch the Spice Girls on their tour, which ends in London's Wembley Stadium next month. Speaking to extra last year, she said: 'Absolutely! I am very, very excited for them!' she said. 'They have great things planned, and I am looking forward to it.' She was recently fired from the reality show that made her famous after her husband admitted to shooting and killing their French bulldog just last week. And Jenelle Evans is reportedly 'focusing on her family' now that MTV has parted ways with the reality star and her large brood after following her for eight years, according to People. The 27-year-old was 'very grateful' for the opportunity to star on Teen Mom 2 (a spin-off from the network's 16 and Pregnant), a representative said in a statement. Tough: Jenelle Evans is reportedly 'focusing on her family' now that MTV has parted ways with the reality star and her large brood after following her for eight years, according to People; seen in February 'Jenelle is focusing on her family and moving forward,' Evans' management and representative team said. 'She is very grateful and appreciative of the opportunity MTV have given her and her family for the last 10 years. 'It is sad to part ways in this matter but this isn't the end of Jenelle Evans or her family.' Evans was released from her contract with MTV on Tuesday after her husband murdered their pet bulldog Nugget when the puppy nipped at their daughter Ensley, two, which he had been videotaping from the other side of the room. The reality star and husband David Eason have been married since 2017. New start: The 27-year-old was 'very grateful' for the opportunity to star on Teen Mom 2 (a spin-off from the network's 16 and Pregnant); seen in February Gross: Jenelle was released from her contract with MTV on Tuesday after her husband murdered their pet bulldog when the puppy nipped at their daughter Ensley, two, which he had been videotaping from the other side of the room; seen in 2015 Her time on Teen Mom 2 came to an end thanks to the actions of her husband, which also affected castmember Briana DeJesus who was reportedly turned away from 'two restaurants' in Florida because owners were 'so upset over the dog killing', according to TMZ. MTV announced on Tuesday that Evans would not appear on any upcoming seasons, according to Us Weekly. 'MTV ended its relationship with David Eason over a year ago in February 2018 and has not filmed any new episodes of Teen Mom 2 with him since,' an MTV spokesperson said. 'Additionally, we have stopped filming with Jenelle Eason as of April 6, 2019 and have no plans to cover her story in the upcoming season.' The end: MTV announced on Tuesday that Jenelle, shown in April 2016 with David in Burbank, California, would not appear on any upcoming seasons, according to Us Weekly It was earlier reported by TMZ that Evans and Eason were going to appear on Marriage Boot Camp, but she later denied it as a rumor and We TV also refuted it. 'WE tv has no plans to cast Jenelle Evans on Marriage Boot Camp,' the network said Wednesday in a statement. MTV originally kicked Eason off the show following a series of homophobic tweets and Evans was subsequently featured less often due to the difficulties of shooting around her husband. Last straw: The network originally kicked Eason off the show following a series of homophobic tweets The animal cruelty incident led to an advertiser exodus, though it's not clear if the companies will be returning to the series now that Jenelle is out of the picture. Brands including Chipotle, Dove Chocolates, TWIX, Greenies pet treats and Persil ProClean have all withdrawn from the program. Evans and Eason share a two-year-old daughter Ensley, and she also shares nine-year-old Jace with Andrew Lewis and four-year-old Kaiser with Nathan Griffin. Rage outburst? Eason admitted Wednesday to murdering the dog, shown with him in August 2018 on Instagram, claiming that it bit Ensley It was Griffin who revealed Eason's alleged animal cruelty. After hearing that her husband had shot their dog, he requested a wellness check on his son, believing that he had been in the house at the time of the shooting, according to TMZ. He shared a video on social media of the small dog being baited to nip the girl's face. Eason took to his HickTownKing Instagram page and posted the clip showing Nugget on the couch with his daughter Ensley who tries to go in for a kiss. Photos: He also shared a photo of a tearful toddler after the incident with a slight red welt on her cheek, the skin having not been broken by the dogs teeth Instead of intervening between the animal, who is clearly uncomfortable as it cowers and pulls away from the little girl, Eason sits across the room and films the dog nip back at the girls face, causing her to cry. He also shared a photo of a tearful toddler after the incident with a slight red welt on her cheek, the skin having not been broken by the dogs teeth. 'I don't give a d*mn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s*** at all. I'm all about protecting my family, it is my life's mission. Some people are worth killing or dying for and my family means that much to me,' he wrote. 'You can hate me all you want but this isn't the first time the dog bit Ensley aggressively. The only person that can judge whether or not an animal is a danger to MY CHILD is ME.' Not backing down: 'I don't give a damn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s*** at all' According to TMZ, Janelle's friends and family members have called Child Protective Services to have her husband removed from the house. The friends and family are reportedly worried about the three children still living in the home, and there's also concern surrounding Jenelle's pitbull, Jax. Eason has reportedly shot the animal prior with a bb gun, and they worry he may lash out further. So far, law enforcement members have been hesitant to enter Jenelle and David's property due to multiple no trespassing signs and the presence of the pitbull. Concern: In addition to killing the little French Bulldog, Eason has reportedly shot Jenelle's pitbull Jax prior with a bb gun In North Carolina, killing a dog is a Class H Felony under the Animal-Cruelty statute, but officials told TMZ on Wednesday that they will only go after David if Jenelle reports him, something she has so far refused to do. David posted multiple photos of his extensive gun collection, including a screed from December when he criticized President Donald Trump for banning bump stocks, a modification to semi-automatic rifles allowing them to fire faster, mimicking fully automatic weapons. He also mentioned in the post that the Secret Service had visited him due to his seemingly threatening statements. Hesitant: Police have been hesitant to approach Eason's home due to the family pitbull, his multiple no trespassing signs, and his well-advertised collection of fire arms The horrifying dog murder came six months after Jenelle accused her husband of breaking her collarbone while violently 'pinning her down on the ground.' 'He got violent because he's been drinking,' Evans sobbed to the 911 operator in October. 'I'm recovering from a surgery on Monday. I can't breathe. I have four kids in the house with me right now. They're all sleeping. I don't know what to do. He left the house. I don't know what to do right now.' Jenelle later revealed to E! News that the incident was a 'drunk and dramatic misunderstanding' after David tried to put a stop to a televised pumpkin patch visit with his kids. She made her first official foray into the art industry with her film Indecision IV last year. And Rose McGowan sought to gain inspiration from fellow artists in the creative field as she headed to the Venice Biennale of Art in Italy via a taxi boat on Wednesday afternoon. The Jawbreaker actress, 45, nailed casual chic as she rocked a bold red blazer while cruising along the sea in the fancy vehicle with a pal. A woman with a mission: Rose McGowan sought to gain inspiration from fellow artists in the creative field as she headed to the Venice Biennale of Art in Italy via a taxi boat on Wednesday Putting on a typically sensational display, the screen star complemented her beauty with a slick of faint red lipstick, and styled her peroxide blonde pixie cut into a comb-over 'do. The 58th international art exhibition, titled May You Live In Interesting Times, will take place from May 11 to November 24, with pre-opening events kicking off on Wednesday. The prestigious event celebrates contemporary art, dance, architecture, cinema and theatre. Rose's display comes after she claimed growing up as a teenager in America was 'more traumatising and more hardcore than being in a cult'. Looking good: The Jawbreaker actress, 45, nailed casual chic as she rocked a bold red blazer while cruising along the sea in the fancy vehicle with a pal Radiant appearance: Putting on a typically sensational display, the screen star complemented her beauty with a slick of faint red lipstick, and styled her peroxide blonde pixie cut into a comb-over 'do The actress said she was bullied, called ugly, and had 'things thrown at me every' day after moving to the US from Tuscany, Italy, when she was 10 years old. Speaking in an interview with FUBAR radio's Calum McSwiggan in March, the former Charmed star told how her teen years were worse than her time spent in the controversial cult Children of God. 'Ive found America absolutely harrowing,' she told FUBAR. 'America was a lot more traumatising to me actually. I found America much, much more hardcore than the cult.' Rose, who along with her parents settled in Oregon, went on to explain how bad things got for her as a newcomer to the country. Impressive: The Charmed star made her first official foray into the art industry with her film Indecision IV last year She detailed: 'In one state I lived in I had things thrown at me every day', adding that people told her 'youre the ugliest thing Ive ever seen'. The TV and film star also discussed how it was working with female directors during her career, after being in an industry dominated by male filmmakers. She said: 'I worked with two of them and they were as horrible as the men. They took it upon themselves to behave very much like the male directors Id worked with. 'I was completely flummoxed because I was playing in both movies very strong women, and they came for me so hard, and I didnt understand.' Prestigious: The 58th international art exhibition, titled May You Live In Interesting Times, will take place from May 11 to November 24, with pre-opening events kicking off on Wednesday Open: Rose's display comes after she claimed growing up as a teenager in America was 'more traumatising and more hardcore than being in a cult' (pictured in 1996) Rose recently discussed whether she'd be attending shamed filmmaker Harvey Weinstein's upcoming trial. The blonde, who in October 2017 accused Weinstein of raping her 20 years previously, told Piers Morgan on Good Morning Britain: 'I'm just trying to put it out of my mind until I have to face it. On a good day I say yes, on a weak day I say no.' Weinstein's trial, relating to an alleged attack on another woman, will begin on June 3 after it was delayed by a month. She went public with her new romance late last year, four years after her split from fiance Tom Sturridge. And Sienna Miller showed she was a woman in love as she enjoyed a passionate kiss with Lucas Zwirner during a romantic stroll in Venice on Wednesday. The Layer Cake actress, 37, looked smitten as she locked lips with the hunky editorial director, 28, and embraced him in the street. PDA: Sienna Miller showed she was a woman in love as she enjoyed a passionate kiss with Lucas Zwirner during a romantic stroll in Venice on Wednesday The new couple were also seen staring into one another's eyes as they shared a special moment in the street, with Sienna cracking a relaxed smile. The Alfie star looked casually chic in a red, green and black PVC jacket worn over a powder blue shirt for the trip. She paired this with baggy cropped jeans and canary yellow shoes. Her blonde tresses were styled in loose waves while her sparkling peepers were hidden behind oversize shades. New couple: She went public with her new romance back in January, four years after her split from fiance Tom Sturridge Lucas showed off his hunky frame in a powder blue shirt and khaki green jacket, teamed with navy corduroy trousers, as he held hands with his love. The couple, who met through mutual friends in New York, went public with their romance last year when they attended her ex Tom's birthday party in London together. Lucas, who currently oversees 25 book releases a year as editorial director of David Zwirner Books, is a Yale-educated literature aficionado. She shares one daughter Marlowe, six, with ex Tom, 33, who is also an actor. Sienna previously gushed to Harper's Bazaar that Tom was her 'best friend in the entire world' - and that while they don't share a property, they often stay together to spend mutual time with their little girl. Admitting their close bond has not broken since they cut romantic ties in the summer of 2015 after four years together, she explained: We still love each other. 'I think in a break-up somebody has to be a little bit cruel in order for it to be traditional, but its not been acrimonious in a way where you would choose to not be around that person.' The star famously dated fellow A-lister Jude Law on-off from 2003, with the actor famously issuing a public apology to her after having an affair with his children's nanny. Rebel Wilson delighted her Instagram followers on Wednesday by sharing never-before-seen photos of a wild night at a male strip club with her Bridesmaids pals. The Australian actress, 39, posted a series of hilarious snaps taken at a raucous bonding session that took place while the cast were filming the 2011 hit comedy. The 39-year-old revealed lead and screenplay writer, Kristen Wiig, was behind the X-rated night out. One frame showed Wiig posing up with Melissa McCarthy, who looked worse for wear holding an empty champagne glass. (Wiig played the maid of honor Annie, while Melissa played the unforgettable bridesmaid Megan.) Bridesmaids gone wild! Rebel Wilson took to social media on Tuesday to share some 'racy' unearthed shots of the cast 'bonding' during a night out at a strip club Drinking up! Melissa McCarthy (bridesmaid Megan) and Kristin Wiig also appeared to be having a blast, seen in a candid flashback shot together 'Okay this post is a bit racy - was just going through some old photos and found these from the night Kristen Wiig (bridesmaid/MOH Annie Walker) took the girls from BRIDESMAIDS to a strip club for cast bonding!' she captioned. 'All these ladies are so talented and were so welcoming to me on my first film job in America! Lots of love to them all x #girlcomedyforever.' The images saw the cast enjoying a few drinks while dancing around to the performance. Mortified! Ellie Kemper (bridesmaid Becca) appeared slightly disturbed by a male's dancing as she watched the graphic performance from the front row Up close and personal! In one image, Maya Rudolph (bride-to-be Lillian) appeared to be very thrilled when a stripper with a chiseled chest came up to her In one image, Maya Rudolph (bride-to-be Lillian) appeared to be very thrilled when a stripper with a chiseled chest came up to her. And in another, Ellie Kemper (bridesmaid Becca) appeared slightly disturbed by a male's dancing as she watched the graphic performance from the front row. Hit! Bridesmaids was a 2011 hit with an all-star cast: (L-R: Melissa McCathy, Ellie Kemper, Rose Byrne, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Maya Rudolph, Kristen Wiig) Having a blast! The images saw the cast enjoying a few drinks while dancing around to the performance Fellow Australian actress Rose Byrne (bridesmaid Helen), also joined in on the group fun, while Wendi McLendon-Covey (bridesmaid Rita) was not seen. Rebel also shared a photo of the infamous Mexican Worm tattoo that she got done in the film. And while the ladies appeared to be having the night of their lives, Dance Mom's Abby Lee appeared somewhat scared after flicking through the shots. The tat is back! Rebel also shared a photo of the infamous Mexican Worm tattoo that she got done in the film Small role: Rebel, who played the role of Brynn, was not a major part of the film - appearing as Annie's roomate's (Gil, played by Matt Lucas) sister Loose change: During her 2017 defamation case against Australian publications under Bauer Media, it was revealed she received a mere $3000 for the role, despite the movie making $288 million Scarred! And while the ladies appeared to be having the night of their lives, Dance Mom's Abby Lee appeared somewhat scared after flicking through the shots 'That was kind of a scary strip club! I don't think I'd want to see that long haired guy up close and personal,' she wrote. Rebel, who played the role of Brynn, was not a major part of the film - appearing as Annie's roomate's sister. (Annie's roommate Gil was played by Matt Lucas) But despite her small role, her appearance saw her catch the eye of some of Hollywood's top casting agents. During her 2017 defamation case against Australian publications under Bauer Media, it was revealed she received a mere $3000 for the role, despite the movie making $288 million. Rebel went on to star in Pitch Perfect 1 (for $65,000), voice Ice Age: Continental Drift (for $20,000), What to Expect When You're Expecting (for $35,000) and Bachelorette (for $15,000). She shot to fame on the 2018 series of Love Island, but was ultimately booted from the villa after only a week. And Kendall Rae Knight commanded attention as she arrived at the star-studded Pride of Manchester Awards at Manchester's Principal Hotel on Wednesday. The brunette beauty, 27, oozed confidence as she slipped into a plunging silver sequin-studded ballgown, which flashed her perky cleavage as she posed. Wow: Kendall Rae Knight commanded attention as she arrived at the star-studded Pride of Manchester Awards at Manchester's Principal Hotel on Wednesday The shimmering halterneck gown hugged the star's toned midriff and slender waist before flowing into a glittering skirt. The gown also featured a soaring thigh-high split which revealed her tanned and toned legs, with the star boosting her height with a pair of perspex stilettos. Her tresses were pulled into a pretty high bun while her stunning features were enhanced with a rich palette of make-up. The appearance comes after she recently faced backlash over having a nose job and revealed that she struggled to breathe ahead of the procedure. Shimmer: The brunette beauty, 27, oozed confidence as she slipped into a plunging silver sequin-studded ballgown, which flashed her perky cleavage as she posed Glow: Her tresses were pulled into a pretty high bun while her stunning features were enhanced with a rich palette of make-up Taking to Instagram in December last year, the brunette beauty insisted her decision wasn't made 'lightly or quickly', while stressing that she doesn't want to 'glamourise cosmetic surgery'. Showcasing her new nose in a make-up free selfie, the TV personality started her post: 'Your damned if you do, your damned if you don't... so do what makes you content in life because at the end of the day, your inner happiness is all that matters. (sic)' The reality star, who had her procedure done at the Elite Cosmetic Surgery in Turkey, insisted she'd been planning the surgery since she was 16. Backlash: Taking to Instagram in December last year, the brunette beauty insisted her decision wasn't made 'lightly or quickly', while stressing that she doesn't want to 'glamourise cosmetic surgery' Candid: Showcasing her new nose in a make-up free selfie, the TV personality started her post: 'Your damned if you do, your damned if you don't...' 'So last week it came out that I had a bump removed from my nose a few months ago (not a couple of weeks ago). I've never denied this or done this in secret as all my close friends and family had known I was planning on doing this for years and they saw me through it all. 'I have had so many questions about it so thought I would answer these and put up a few stories about my little nose journey and why I wanted it doing.' Kendall added that she had a nose job due to 'personal reasons'. 'I would like to say I did this for personal reasons only as I haven't been happy with my nose for many years now, along with the fact I struggled to breath through my left nostril so decided to go ahead with the procedure. 'This is not a decision I made lightly or quickly and want to stress I'm not trying to glamourise cosmetic surgery as I have never had any form of surgery before!!!' Farewell: Kendall shot to fame on the 2018 series of Love Island, but was ultimately booted from the villa after only a week Pals: Kendall was joined by her Love Island co-star Ellie Brown at the event She is a Hollywood icon who never fails to impress with her sartorial flair. And Meg Ryan commanded attention as she arrived at a glittering gala to mark the the 350th anniversary of the Opera de Paris in Paris, France on Wednesday. The When Harry Met Sally actress, 57, exuded elegance in a twinkling, pearl-studded strapless gown as she posed up a storm on the red carpet. Glow: Meg Ryan commanded attention as she arrived at a glittering gala to mark the the 350th anniversary of the Opera de Paris in Paris, France on Wednesday The actress showcased her trim figure in the stunning gown, which teased her cleavage and featured a statement pearl-adorned panel across the bust. The stunning gown flowed into an elegant, floor-length black skirt, with the star adding extra sparkle with a diamond pendant necklace. Her caramel lob was teased into soft waves which a rich palette of glowing make-up enhanced her youthful complexion. The star joined fellow A-lister Maggie Gyllenhaal, 41, at the glamorous event, with the The Dark Knight actress wowing in a pearlescent satin high-necked blouse. Chic: The When Harry Met Sally actress, 57, exuded elegance in a twinkling, pearl-studded strapless gown as she posed up a storm on the red carpet Glow: The actress showcased her trim figure in the stunning gown, which teased her cleavage and featured a statement pearl-adorned panel across the bust Keeping the look cool and crisp, she paired this with a shimmering black skirt Last November, Meg took to Instagram to announce her engagement to Jack and Diane crooner John Mellencamp. Along with a rudimentary hand drawn sketch of the couple she captioned the image: 'ENGAGED! Meg and John have been off-and-on for quite some time and finally decided to make things official after some ups and downs. Brunette beauty: The star joined fellow A-lister Maggie Gyllenhaal, 41, at the glamorous event, with the The Dark Knight actress wowing in a pearlescent satin high-necked blouse Wow factor: Keeping the look cool and crisp, she paired this with a shimmering black skir The duo first started dating in 2011, before breaking up in 2014, getting back together later that year, ending things again in 2015, and reconciling for a final time in 2017. Meg's wedding to Mellencamp will mark her second marriage and his fourth. Meg also shares one adult son, Jack, age 26 with ex-husband Dennis Quaid. Dynamic duo: Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani and French actress Clotilde Courau looked incredible at the gala Elegance: French model Jeanne Damas dazzled in a navy slip dress and woolen stole Showstopping: French actress Farida Khelfa wowed in an embroidered jacket and culottes Parisian chic: French actress and film director Valerie Donzelli looked elegant in monochrome At just 19-years-old, Yara Shahidi has already been recognized by powerhouses like Oprah, who declared to the actress during a live SuperSoul Conversation, 'Your future is so bright it burns my eyes.' Now, the activist is featured in Town & Country Magazine's summer issue dedicated to Philanthropy. The Black-ish star wears her beautiful hair in a natural afro as her eyes stare right through you on the cover of the magazine above the words, 'This woman will change the world.' Glowing from the inside out: Shahidi wears her beautiful hair in a natural afro as her eyes stare right through you on the cover of the magazine, right above the words, 'This woman will change the world' On Wednesday her Town & Country cover was revealed, where the star rocked her natural curls. The Harvard student looked like royalty in all gold everything: a gold blouse, gold skirt, gold earrings and rings and rose gold hues in her makeup. But it's Shahidi's golden inside that glows brightest. Golden soul: The Harvard student donned all gold everything: a gold blouse, gold skirt, gold earrings and rings and rose gold hues in her makeup Let's shine together: In her interview with the magazine, Shahidi opened up about both her online and physical activism. Not only has the teenager founded her own national initiative called Eighteen x 18 to encourage and empower young people to vote, but she uses her Instagram to spread messages social justice to her 3.6 million followers on the social media platform. Standing in solidarity: Shahidi posted this message on March 15 after the Christchurch mosque shooting attack in New Zealand where 51 were gunned down Empowered women empower women: '@girlsincwestchester is actively supporting my brilliant peers in their quest to break barriers, shift paradigms and lift one another' the 19-year-old activist posted on Instagram on April 16 But her page isn't just for those who want to change the world. She posts fun stuff, too - she is a Gen X-er after all. 'I can say, "My friends look great today, lets take a picture" and be equally concerned with issues globally,' Shahidi said. The actress says she knows that just being a happy Black woman is a revolutionary act, saying, 'Theres a power in just displaying joy.' Born in Minneapolis to an Iranian dad and African American mom - of Yoruba and Fulbe descent - Shahidi credits her activism to her diverse background. She also said she has a 'humanitarian family.' The Grown-ish star says she feels that cultures are interconnected, not in tradition, 'but in terms of shared values theyre transcontinental,' saying, 'My love of history, or even being socially engaged, stems from having, firsthand, people to care about around the globe and at a young age expanding my community beyond these fake borders we put on each other.' 'Theres a power in just displaying joy': Shahidi posted this picture of herself and her mom in Paris on April 26 Multicultural family: 'My love of history, or even being socially engaged, stems from having, firsthand, people to care about around the globe' Yara said When it comes to her future, none other than Oprah Winfrey said it best when she said she hopes she is still alive when Shahidi becomes president. She added, 'That is going to happen if she wants it to happen.' The issue hits stands on May 14 and also features Ava DuVernay, Melinda Gates and Christine Lagarde. This woman will change the world: 46-year-old filmmaker Ava DuVernay is gearing up for the release of her latest Netflix project, When They See Us (premiering on May 31). Here for T&C, she sheds lights on the brutalities of the criminal justice system and what she hopes audiences take away from the story of the exonerated Central Park Five men I'm with her: Melinda Gates, 54, explains why she thinks it is time 'that we have a woman as the leader of the country' It's one of the hottest nights on Australia's fashion calendar. And Anna Heinrich certainly made an entrance when she arrived at InStyle's annual Women Of Style Awards in Sydney on Wednesday. The 32-year-old lawyer, who won Tim Robards' season of The Bachelor in 2013, stunned in a quirky dress by Rachel Gilbert. Blooming lovely! The Bachelor's Anna Heinrich stunned in a quirky floral print dress with a lace-up back at InStyle's Women Of Style Awards in Sydney on Wednesday Anna's dress, known as the 'Lou Lou Gown', does not hit stories until later this year. It featured a bold floral print and lace-up detail on the back, which the reality star proudly showed off on the red carpet. She completed her look with statement earrings and opted for a glamorous makeup palette courtesy of beauty guru Heidi Scarlett King. Exclusive: Anna's dress, known as the 'Lou Lou Gown', does not hit stories until later this year It comes after Anna spoke about her long-distance marriage with Tim Robards. The Trial By Kyle star is based in Sydney, while her husband is in Melbourne filming scenes for soap opera Neighbours. 'People think it's an issue, but it's not,' she told OK Australia last month, when asked about living in different states. Details: Anna's dress featured a bold floral print and a lace-up detail on the back, which the reality star proudly showed off on the red carpet '[Tim] comes back every weekend and we speak to each other four to five times a day,' she added. 'It's really not an issue and I think it's only an issue if you want to make it an issue.' Anna stole Tim's heart on the first season of The Bachelor in 2013. They got engaged in May 2017 and married in Italy on June 7, 2018. It's one of HBO's most hotly-anticipated series in recent memory. The first trailer for the upcoming Watchmen series was released Wednesday, and it's quite a departure from Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' classic comic. The new teaser video shows a dark alternate version of America, seemingly years or decades after the events of the original comic series. Finally here: The first trailer for HBO's upcoming Watchmen series was released Wednesday, and it's quite a departure from Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' classic comic The video opens on an ominous room full of men in gray balaclavas with Rorschach test images on their faces, mimicking the costumed hero who animated the original series. Much like the Dark Knight series, a group of vigilantes have been inspired by his exploits, though their goals aren't articulated. 'We are no one. We are everyone. And we are invisible,' intones a leader of the masked group. Dark: The video opens on an ominous room full of men in gray balaclavas with Rorschach test images on their faces, mimicking the costumed hero who animated the original series Symbolism: As the masked man chants 'ticktock,' we see someone tapping a pocketwatch that has stopped minutes before midnight Good guys or bad guys? 'We convinced ourselves that they were gone,' says Chief Judd (Don Johnson), possibly referring to superheroes. 'But they were just hibernating' The same man begins to chant 'ticktock,' which continues throughout the trailer, chilling parodying the ubiquitous clock ticking sound commonly employed in trailers. As he chants, the image briefly alights on an unidentified person tapping at pocket watch that has stopped only a few minutes before midnight, a motif from the graphic novel. As 'HBO Presents' comes on screen, the second word begins to tilt downward like a second hand in time with the chanting. Next, we see an auditorium full of police officers with yellow scarfs covering their faces and obscuring their identities, as Chief Judd, played by Don Johnson, speaks. 'We convinced ourselves that they were gone,' he says, possibly referring to superheroes. 'But they were just hibernating.' Violence: Another man's voice whispers, 'They came for everybody,' as a group of masked Rorschach figures jump out of a van, cocking their shotguns Death: 'All police,' says another voice as a funeral is shown on screen and police officers lead a funeral for one of their own Worry: 'Are we safe?' asks Cal Abraham (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), as we see him dancing with Angel Abar (Oscar-winner Regina King) Another man's voice whispers, 'They came for everybody,' as a group of masked Rorschach figures jump out of a van, cocking their shotguns. 'All police,' says another voice as a funeral is shown on screen and police officers lead a funeral for one of their own. 'Are we safe?' asks Cal Abraham (Yahya Abdul-Mateen II), as we see him dancing with Angel Abar (Oscar-winner Regina King). The cutting becomes more frenzied as another man says, 'I guess we have ourselves a reckoning.' Anonymous: A man with a mask that looks like a mylar balloon is seen at the outskirts of the funeral Chilling: A carnival is briefly seen, littered with dead bodies Monk-like: We see a fast-paced shot of a meditating Jeremy Irons, who plays Ozymandias, both the hero and villain of the original comic and Zack Snyder's 2009 film adaptation A man with a mask that looks like a mylar balloon is seen at the outskirts of the funeral, followed by a shot of a pickup truck racing down a rural road. There's a quick shot of a carnival seemingly littered with dead bodies, a clock even closer to midnight, and a fast-paced shot of a meditating Jeremy Irons, who plays Ozymandias, both the hero and villain of the original comic and Zack Snyder's 2009 film adaptation. We see more barely intelligible shots of guns being fired and a quick close-up of a distressed Johnson. Fighting: We see more barely intelligible shots of guns being fired Mystery man: The balloon-faced figure stares ominously The teaser returns to the room of Rorschach vigilantes as they suddenly cease their ticktock chanting. The trailer ends on a short clip of Frances Farmer, who play Jane Crawford, as she shouts out the window of a car at Chief Judd and an unseen person. 'What are you two talking about?' she asks. 'Oh, nothing,' he replies. 'Just the end of the world.' Though the clip is intentionally oblique and offers only a glimpse of what the show is about, it does seem to set up a confrontation between police and vigilantes, seemingly requiring help from a new generation of superheroes though it's not clear who the good guys are. The premiere date for Watchmen has yet to be released, but the series is expected to start airing on HBO in the fall of this year. Oblique: The teaser returns to the room of Rorschach vigilantes as they suddenly cease their ticktock chanting Lindy Klim, 41, is no stranger to commanding attention after enjoying a successful modelling career. And on Wednesday, the Balinese princess turned heads as she arrived at the 11th annual InStyle and Audi Women of Style Awards in Sydney. Dressed in a plunging black layered gown by Toni Maticevski, the mother-of-four oozed confidence as she posed for photos on the red carpet. Fashionista: Lindy Klim turned heads as she arrived at the InStyle Woman of the Year awards in Sydney on Wednesday The elaborate dress featured unique ruffles and a hint of sparkling silver material on one side of her chest area. She paired the fashion-forward look with black fishnet stockings and open-toe sandal heels by Christian Louboutin. The mother-of-four looked youthful and radiant with flawlessly applied makeup and a neat up-do. Unique: She paired the fashion-forward look with black fishnet stockings and open-toe sandal heels Glowing: The mother-of-four looked youthful and radiant with flawlessly applied makeup and a neat up-do Lindy took a break from parenting duties, to enjoy a ladies' night out. Last year, she revealed that motherhood has been somewhat challenging the fourth time around because she has 'forgotten certain things'. She told The Morning Show that she's forced to Google certain things because she doesn't remember everything she learned the last time she had a baby. VIP: The Balinese princess oozed confidence as she arrived at the VIP event 'Motherhood is great, it all comes back to you after a while and I often do a lot of Googling because I have forgotten certain things,' she said. '[It's] because there's a huge age gap between all the children. She added: 'I love it, I'm much more relaxed this time around.' Busy mum: The model is mum to one-year-old daughter Goldie, who she shares with her husband Adam Ellis. She also shares three children with her ex-husband Michael Klim - Stella, 13, Rocco, 11, and Frankie, eight The model is mum to one-year-old daughter Goldie, who she shares with her husband Adam Ellis. She also shares three children with her ex-husband Michael Klim - Stella, 13, Rocco, 11, and Frankie, eight. Lindy and Adam tied the knot in Tuscany, Italy in August. She announced her split from Olympic swimming champion Michael in 2016, after nearly ten years of marriage. Coy couple Cara Delevingne and Ashley Benson went make-up free and dressed down to catch a flight out of New York's JFK Airport together on Wednesday. The 26-year-old IMG Model flaunted her taut midriff in a white crop-top, flannel, leather jacket, grey Burberry sweatpants, and a matching beanie. The 29-year-old actress also bared her belly in a black crop-top, leather jacket, ripped blue jeans, and booties. Coy couple: Ashley Benson (L) and Cara Delevingne (R) went make-up free and dressed down to catch a flight out of New York's JFK Airport together on Wednesday The British heiress seemingly confirmed the pair were an item when she referred to the Anaheim-born beauty as her 'true love' in the comments of an April 27 Instagram post. Cara and Ashley - first spotted kissing at Heathrow on August 14 - met on the set of Her Smell where they portrayed lovers Cassie and Roxie in nineties riot grrrl band Akergirls. On Monday, the sapphic duo hit up the Gucci party at Hunter College Gym after Delevingne donned a sheer, rainbow-striped Dior jumpsuit (which took 600 hours to create) at the 71st Annual Met Gala. The RuPaul's Drag Race guest judge gushed that this year's fashion festivities were 'by far my favorite' and she joked that her inspiration was 'pain.' Jet setters: The 26-year-old IMG Model flaunted her taut midriff in a white crop-top, flannel, leather jacket, grey Burberry sweatpants, and a matching beanie Pretty Little Liars alum: The 29-year-old actress also bared her belly in a black crop-top, leather jacket, ripped blue jeans, and booties Still going strong! The British heiress seemingly confirmed the pair were an item when she referred to the Anaheim-born beauty as her 'true love' in the comments of an April 27 Instagram post (pictured Saturday) Can't wait: Cara and Ashley - first spotted kissing at Heathrow on August 14 - met on the set of Her Smell where they portrayed lovers Cassie and Roxie in nineties riot grrrl band Akergirls 'Obviously, camp all the way, camping all day, it's what we do here,' Cara said of the evening's theme to Vogue. 'I would define camp as expression of your most outrageous. I'd say [this look is] about five percent.' On June 17, Cara - who came out as bisexual in 2014 - will receive the Trevor Project's Hero Award at the LGBTQAI group's fundraiser taking place at Cipriani Wall Street in Manhattan. 'I'm humbled and truly speechless,' Delevingne said in a statement. Took 600 hours to create! On Monday, the sapphic duo hit up the Gucci party at Hunter College Gym after Delevingne donned a sheer, rainbow-striped Dior jumpsuit at the Met Gala 'Camping all day!' The RuPaul's Drag Race guest judge gushed that this year's fashion festivities were 'by far my favorite' and she joked that her inspiration was 'pain' 'A "hero" to me is someone who stands up for what they believe in. They help to make change for those who are underserved or discriminated against. I strive to acknowledge those who feel like they don't fit into a box and make sure they know, in both good and bad times, that there is always someone there to support them. 'I'm inspired and motivated by The Trevor Project's tireless, life-saving work to support LGBTQ youth in crisis, and I'm extremely proud to be a part of such a resilient community.' The London Fields actress next plays faerish refugee Vignette Stonemoss opposite Orlando Bloom in the nine-episode series Carnival Row, which will stream later this year on Amazon Video. 'I'm humbled and truly speechless': On June 17, Cara - who came out as bisexual in 2014 - will receive the Trevor Project's Hero Award at the LGBTQAI group's fundraiser taking place at Cipriani Wall Street in Manhattan Jessica Alba pulled off a fun office look when heading to her Honest Company headquarters in Los Angeles on Wednesday. The Into The Blue actress wore a leopard print coat with jeans and booties as she wore her hair up in a high ponytail. This comes the day after the mother-of-three celebrated her 38th birthday - which fell on April 28 - with pals over dinner. Work it! Jessica Alba pulled off a fun office look when heading to her Honest Company headquarters in Los Angeles on Wednesday The coat looked paper thin but was big on style as it had large shoulders and a small collar. She added a beige turtleneck sweater which matched her beige socks and light brown booties. Her jeans were high-waisted and had frayed hems. The Fantastic Four actress also carried a fancy print bag by Christian Dior in the crook of her arm and held on to a cell phone. The busy mom was also holding a cup of coffee. A cozy look: The Into The Blue actress wore a leopard print coat with jeans and booties as she wore her hair up in a high ponytail More details: The coat looked paper thin but was big on style as it had large shoulders and a small collar. She added a beige turtleneck sweater which matched her beige socks and light brown booties. Her jeans were high-waisted and had frayed hems The night before she seemed to have a blast with her friends. She took to Instagram to share photos from the big night and she captioned the post, 'When you practically the plate clean. My #Rideordie @kellysawyer made me eat so much and drink more... 'Eating the entire dessert plate, car dancing to #Thotiana and random posing on my porch for you--- sounds about right. Big night out: The night before she seemed to have a blast with her friends. She took to Instagram to share photos from the big night and she captioned the post, 'When you practically the plate clean. My #Rideordie @kellysawyer made me eat so much and drink more' Her besties: She said she had a great time with two of her closest pals 'After a long AZZ day, doing all the things -you made me feel -cheers to laughs and impromptu dance parties por vida @kellysawyer . 'And shout out to my baby boo #ashley #lilsis. Alba was seen in front of a dessert tray - both before she dug in and after. And she posed with two of her pals. Another cake: The day before she received this beautiful cake from other friends Several days ago she was in Paris with husband Cash Warren at her side. The two are celebrating their 11-year wedding anniversary - which falls on May 12 - a bit early. The 38-year-old business owner wore wide legged white pants and a floral top as she hilariously snapped pictures of her journey. Romantic: Alba frolicked through Paris on Thursday with her husband, Cash Warren at her side Sharing behind the scenes looks at her Parisian getaway, Alba showed off her spring appropriate outfit. Her loose blouse was filled with tiny flowers of numerous colors and she paired the green, pink and yellow hues with 70s style white pants. Her dirty blonde hair was relaxed and wavy as it blew in the wind around her sun glass wearing face. Views for days: The mother of three then strolled the city streets, crossing a bridge over the Seine river Cash held tight to his powerhouse of a wife, smiling for a selfie with greenery behind them. The mother of three then strolled the city streets, crossing a bridge over the Seine river. With a cardigan tied around her neck, Alba looked every bit the fashionista. Stylish: With a cardigan tied around her neck, Alba looked every bit the fashionista Exploring: Her adventures continued down the winding roads as she explored arch covered hallways, cobblestone lined streets and the impressive architecture that makes the city a site to marvel at Funny lady: Jessica also added some humor to her trip, posting pictures of the statues and views she was relishing in, but adding hilarious song choices to go with them Her adventures continued down the winding roads as she explored arch covered hallways, cobblestone lined streets and the impressive architecture that makes the city a site to marvel at. Jessica also added some humor to her trip, posting pictures of the statues and views she was relishing in, but adding hilarious song choices to go with them. In one, she showed a sculpture of a naked woman sitting down and resting her head in her hand. The Fantastic Four actress paired it with Drake's In My Feelings song, joking about the moody stance. Mama like: With Warren, who Alba wed in 2008, standing in the grass with a huge tan building behind him, the beauty used the song I Like It by Cardi B With Warren standing in the grass with a huge tan building behind him, the beauty used the song I Like It by Cardi B, pointing to her infatuation with the father of her children. All around, the trip looked to be mightily enjoyed by both Jessica and Cash, who share daughters Honor, 10, and Haven, seven, and son Hayes, one, together. The sex icon gave birth to Hayes in December 2017 and worked hard post pregnancy to get her famous figure back. She currently runs her baby and beauty safe company, The Honest Company and can be seen in Killers Anonymous and L.A.'s Finest. Her career began at a young age as the star of a popular reality television show. And while Lauren Conrad found her voice as a star of The Hills, she waged a personal battle when it came to breastfeeding her son Liam. The 33-year-old lifestyle blogger admitted during her first podcast Lauren Conrad: Asking for a Friend that she felt like a failure when her milk supply was running low just four months into breastfeeding her now 22-month-old. Difficult: While Lauren Conrad found her voice as a star of The Hills, she waged a personal battle when it came to breastfeeding her son Liam; seen in April 'I felt like I was failing at something that should come really naturally and it was really difficult for me,' she said. The former Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County star 'felt ashamed' and 'like a bad mom' after her supply dropped, and tried various remedies to boost her milk. She thought breastfeeding 'would just come really easily to me and I would just kind of know what to do because thats what my body is made to do.' Ultimately, feeding became the 'most difficult part of becoming a new mother' as she recalled keeping a 'really sad half-full frozen bag of breast milk' in the freezer as a memory of the days when she could produce. Tough: The 33-year-old lifestyle blogger admitted during her first podcast Lauren Conrad: Asking for a Friend that she felt like a failure when her milk supply was running low just four months into breastfeeding her now 22-month-old; seen in April 'It had a tiny little martini glass drawn on it because it was from the one time I had a martini and I couldnt give it to him,' she said. 'So it just sat there next to the Popsicles, mocking me. Besides that, I had nothing, and I couldnt keep up with [Liams need].' In addition to feeding woes, Lauren was like most new parents sleep-deprived as she raised her little one. 'When you're not sleeping, that's a form of torture,' she said. 'Youll literally lose your mind to the point where I was like, "I dont know if Im qualified to watch a baby right now. I dont know if I should be left alone with my child. I havent slept in three days. Im so tired."' Conrad's experiences with her son have set her up to be more prepared for her second pregnancy, which she announced in early April with a sweet Instagram photo. Baby on board: Conrad's experiences with her son have set her up to be more prepared for her second pregnancy, which she announced in early April with a sweet Instagram photo She has been married to husband William Tell for nearly five years and the couple will celebrate an anniversary on Sept. 13. Lauren rose to fame when she was first cast on MTV's reality show, Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County. The groundbreaking series followed Lauren and her friends as they grew up in the upscale Southern California neighborhood, eventually tagging along with her to college in San Francisco before a spin-off was created about her new, grown-up life in Los Angeles, The Hills. In addition to publishing nine books, Lauren is the founder of two clothing lines, Paper Crown and LC Lauren Conrad, and recently launched her spring collection with Kohl's. Their romance has gone from strength to strength since late 2018. And Sienna Miller and Lucas Zwirner looked closer than ever as they stepped out for the Venice Biennale in Italy on Wednesday. The American Sniper star, 37, looked sensational in an embroidered corset dress as she held hands with her dapper beau, 28, en-route to the glitzy event. Cute couple: Sienna Miller and Lucas Zwirner looked closer than ever as they stepped out for the Venice Biennale in Italy on Wednesday The gorgeous dress featured a scarlet bodice adorned with shimmering cream and green floral embroidery. Cinching in at her slender waist with a golden silk sash, the dress flared into a ankle-length black skirt. The Layer Cake star boosted her height with black peep toe heels. Her blonde tresses were styled in loose waves and a pretty plait while her stunning features were enhanced with a radiant dusting of make-up. Elegant: The American Sniper star, 37, looked sensational in an embroidered corset dress as she held hands with her dapper beau, 27, en-route to the glitzy event Glittering: The gorgeous dress featured a scarlet bodice adorned with shimmering cream and green floral embroidery Lucas looked handsome in a crisp white shirt and a black suit as he strolled along. The couple, who met through mutual friends in New York, went public with their romance last year when they attended her ex Tom Sturridge's birthday party in London together. Lucas, who currently oversees 25 book releases a year as editorial director of David Zwirner Books, is a Yale-educated literature aficionado. She shares one daughter Marlowe, six, with ex Tom, 33, who is also an actor. Sienna previously gushed to Harper's Bazaar that Tom was her 'best friend in the entire world' - and that while they don't share a property, they often stay together to spend mutual time with their little girl. Admitting their close bond has not broken since they cut romantic ties in the summer of 2015 after four years together, she explained: We still love each other. 'I think in a break-up somebody has to be a little bit cruel in order for it to be traditional, but its not been acrimonious in a way where you would choose to not be around that person.' The star famously dated fellow A-lister Jude Law on-off from 2003, with the actor famously issuing a public apology to her after having an affair with his children's nanny. Kit Harington shot to fame as Jon Snow in Game Of Thrones. But it could have been very different, as fellow English talent Nicholas Hoult has revealed he auditioned for the key role in the hit HBO series. Speaking to Page Six at the Montclair Film Festival's screening of his new film Tolkien this week, Nicholas revealed how he tried out while rocking 'a very patchy fake tan.' Missed opportunity: Nicholas Hoult has revealed he auditioned for the role of Jon Snow in the hit HBO series Game Of Thrones Sounding unsure exactly what part he auditioned for nine years ago, Nicholas, 29, mused: 'I think I auditioned for Jon Snow. I remember it because I was filming 'Clash of the Titans' at the time, so I had long hair extensions.' 'They gave me a ponytail and also a very patchy fake tan. So I remember being like, "This is probably not what they're hoping for," and it obviously wasn't.' Kit went on to win the role and a reported 537,000 per episode salary for the final season, which is currently airing. Despite missing out on the role, Nicholas added that he is a fan of the series, but so far has only managed to watch the first season. Iconic: Kit Harington shot to fame as Snow in the show, which is now airing its finale season What a look! Nicholas revealed he auditioned during filming for 2010 film Clash of the Titans 'so I had long hair extensions and a very patchy fake tan' He admitted though that he hopes to be 'laid up in bed with the flu for couple days' to binge-watch the series. Nicholas is currently promoting his new big screen biopic, Tolkien which sees him take the lead as the famed Lord of the Rings author. Lily Collins stars as the writer's romantic muse and future wife Edith Bratt. The film echoes Tolkien and Bratt's real-life love story. They met and fell in love when the author was just 16 and she was three years his senior. Big screen role: Nicholas is currently promoting his new big screen biopic, Tolkien which sees him take the lead as the famed Lord of the Rings author They remained together until Edith passed away in 1971 and they are now buried alongside one another. 'I think the film is based on enough truth and fact of what we know of his life,' the X-Men actor told Digital Spy this week. 'But at the same time, it's a cinematic experience whereby during World War 1 he suffered trench fever so we've turned it into this fantastical world whereby he's in the trenches and experiencing that horror, but also his imagination is playing tricks on him and he's imagining things from his novel. So there's a nice twist to this film as it's not a straight biopic.' Tolkien is in UK cinemas now, and is released in the US on May 10. An elephant splashes at sunset in the waters of the Chobe river in Botswana Chobe National Park Leaders from four southern African countries held talks in Botswana on Tuesday to better manage the world's largest concentration of elephants, amid growing concerns over poaching, loss of habitat, and conflict with humans. Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi, whose country has Africa's largest elephant population, told his fellow leaders that it was time the region comes up with a common strategy to manage the huge mammals. "We cannot continue to be spectators while others debate and take decisions about our elephants," Masisi said in opening remarks in the northern town of Kasane. The so-called elephant summit was attended by presidents from Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. At the end of the one-day meeting, the leaders resolved to "effectively lobby the international community" to relax the global ban on ivory trade to a strictly-controlled form of trade. In 1989 the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) banned international trade in ivory by listing all African elephant populations in its appendix 1. Southern African countries have submitted proposals to CITES to have their elephant populations transferred from appendix 1 to appendix 2 which would allow them to trade in registered raw ivory to CITES-approved partners. "We reflected on the status of the African elephants in the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, and noted that while overall numbers have declined, it is evident from available data that countries such as Botswana and Zimbabwe have large populations," they said in a statement. As the "numbers continue to grow, human-elephant conflict is escalating ....due to competition for limited resources and the effects of climate change," they said. Landlocked Botswana has around 150,000 elephants roaming freely in its unfenced parks and wide open spaces, followed by Zimbabwe with some 100,000 according to a conference document. The southern African region is also experiencing drought spells, which Masisi said were "placing even more pressure on our fragile ecosystems". Around two-thirds of the world's elephant population is found on the continent. Over the past decade, the number of elephants on the continent has fallen by around 111,000 to 415,000, largely due to poaching for ivory, according to figures from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Ivory from elephant tusks is illegally traded as part of a multi-billion dollar industry that extends from Africa to Asia and beyond. The Botswana government is lobbying to end a strict ban on wildlife hunting which was imposed five years ago to protect wildlife in the country. The controversial proposals, which must be debated by cabinet before becoming law, would overturn a hunting ban that was introduced by former president Ian Khama, who was an ardent conservationist. Gabon has banned exploitation of the 'sacred' kevazingo wood -- but a huge consignment destined for illegal export has gone missing Hundreds of seized containers of kevazingo, a precious wood considered sacred and whose exploitation is banned in Gabon, have gone missing, it emerged Wednesday. More than 350 containers confiscated by the authorities were found to have "curiously disappeared" on April 30, said Libreville prosecutor Olivier N'Zahou quoted by the pro-government Union newspaper. Customs officers had discovered the collection of rare hardwood -- worth millions of dollars -- in February and March at two Chinese-owned depots at the Owendo timber port on the Libreville peninsula. The wood had been loaded into containers bearing ministry of water and forests labels, falsely describing it as Okoume -- a kind of timber cleared for export. After authorities discovered the fake documentation, a ministry official based at the port and his team were arrested on suspicion of trafficking the wood. Kevazingo species take many years to mature, is highly valued in Asia and fetches very high prices. Top quality kevazingo, also known as bubinga, can fetch up to $2,000 per cubic metre. N'Zahou accused ministry officials of having "knowingly ordered the removal of the said containers with a view to fraudulent export" of the wood. The ministry of water and forests did not respond when contacted by AFP. Gabon last year banned the exploitation of kevazingo after illegal felling reached alarming proportions. The wood is listed as under threat by CITES, the international convention covering endangered animals and flora. Forests cover some three quarters of Gabon's land mass. The industry is hugely important for the West African nation's economy, supporting some 17,000 jobs, and is second only to the petroleum sector in terms of foreign earnings and accounts for 60 percent of non-oil related GDP. In March, a British NGO warned of illegal practices in kevazingo, accusing a Chinese group of trafficking the wood in Gabon and also neighbouring Republic of Congo. Last month, Gabon suspended a logging licence issued to a Chinese timber company after a British watchdog group, the Environmental Investigation Agency, accused the firm of bribery and breaches of forestry laws. The commissioner in charge of electoral operations told an audience of journalists and civil society groups in Bujurumba that official steps should be taken to "block the way for those media who do not want to follow the path taken by the government" A senior Burundi election official has called for independent media to be barred from covering the East African country's presidential polls in 2020, local press and witnesses reported Wednesday. Jean Anastase Hicuburund, from the National Independent Electoral Commission, urged that official steps be taken to "block the way for those media who do not want to follow the path taken by the government". "They have done everything to bring the country to its knees," he told an audience of journalists and civil society groups in Bujumbura. The comments were reported by SOS Media Burundi and confirmed to AFP by two sources present. SOS Media Burundi is one of the few independent outlets left in a country ranked one of the worst in the world for press freedom. Burundi has been in turmoil since President Pierre Nkurunziza announced his candidacy for a third term in April 2015. He was re-elected in July of that year. Violence claimed at least 1,200 lives and displaced more than 400,000 between April 2015 and May 2017, according to estimates by the International Criminal Court which has opened an investigation. Hicuburund, the commissioner in charge of electoral operations and litigation, said independent media was to blame for the 2015 violence that "paralysed the country". "You witnessed the events of 2015. It was mainly the independent media that had received from abroad the mission to create chaos," he said. "The Burundian people must disassociate themselves from the media that do not support government action." Burundi's independent media were among the most flourishing in the region until the 2015 crisis, when several radio and television stations were destroyed and about 100 journalists were forced into exile. In March, the BBC was banned from operating in Burundi. The country's media authority had already suspended FM radio broadcasts of the BBC and Voice of America the year before. Burundi ranks 159th out of 180 countries in the latest Reporters Without Borders press freedom index. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) - The United Arab Emirates has released a Qatari naval vessel and four sailors who were held for nearly a week amid an ongoing boycott of Doha by the federation and three other Arab nations. The UAE's Foreign Ministry identified the four sailors by name and rank in a statement Monday. It said the vessel, flying the Qatari flag, "entered UAE territorial waters" on April 30. Qatar's Foreign Ministry acknowledged the incident in its own statement, saying "the boat was carrying out routine drills in the Qatari territorial waters and was subjected to technical faults in the UAE's territorial waters." The incident is just the latest in a series of confrontations between Qatar and the UAE, which with Bahrain, Egypt and Saudi Arabia has boycotted Doha over a political dispute since June 2017. ROME (AP) - Amanda Knox is returning to Italy for the first time since she was convicted and imprisoned, but ultimately acquitted, in the murder and sexual assault of her British roommate in the hilltop university town of Perugia. The 31-year-old American was invited to attend a conference June 13-15 organized in Modena by the Criminal Chamber of the northern city and the Italy Innocence Project, which seeks to help people who have been convicted of crimes they did not commit. Knox will be speaking on the role of the media in judicial errors on the last day of the conference. "The Italy Innocence Project didn't yet exist when I was wrongly convicted in Perugia. I'm honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time," Knox, who is from Seattle, said Tuesday on Twitter. Knox and her former boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, were initially convicted in the slaying of student Meredith Kercher in 2007. "We decided to invite her because we believe she is an icon of the mass media process," said Guido Sola, president of the Criminal Chamber, according to the Italian news agency ANSA. In this March 27, 2015 photo Amanda Knox talks to reporters outside her mother's home, in Seattle, WA, United States. Knox says she is returning to Italy for the first time since she was convicted and imprisoned, but ultimately acquitted, for the murder and sexual assault of her British roommate Meredith Kercher in the university hilltop town of Perugia. Knox on Twitter that "I'm honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time" after she was invited to attend a conference June 14-15 in Modena organized by the Italy Innocence Project, which seeks to help people who have been convicted for crimes they did not commit. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) The trials of Knox and Sollecito drew international media attention, with early allegations appearing in Italian media that apparently affected their initial verdicts. Their convictions were annulled by the country's highest court in 2015 after a series of flip-flop higher-court decisions over years. Judges in that final ruling cited flaws in the investigation and said there was a lack of evidence to prove the defendants' wrongdoing beyond reasonable doubt, including a lack of "biological traces" connecting them to the crime. Italy's highest court did, however, confirm a conviction against Knox for falsely accusing a Congolese bar owner in the case. An Ivorian immigrant, Rudy Guede, is serving a 16-year sentence for Kercher's slaying. ___ This story corrects the spelling of Sollecito's first name to Raffaele. May 8 (Reuters) - Newcastle United right back DeAndre Yedlin has undergone surgery in the United States for a groin problem, the Premier League club said on Wednesday. Yedlin, 25, suffered the injury before Newcastle's 3-2 loss to Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday and the U.S. international last featured in their 1-0 defeat by Crystal Palace in April where he conceded a penalty. "Newcastle defender DeAndre Yedlin has undergone successful surgery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania this week to repair a groin injury," the club said in a statement https://www.nufc.co.uk/news/latest-news/yedlin-undergoes-groin-operation on their website. "His recovery will be monitored by Newcastle United and U.S. national team medical staff, with the CONCACAF Gold Cup taking place this summer." The CONCACAF Gold Cup begins next month with defending champions U.S set to take on Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and Panama in the group stage. Yedlin has featured in 29 league games for 14th-placed Newcastle this season. They play their final match of the campaign at relegated Fulham on Sunday. (Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru Editing by Christian Radnedge) Cenovus Energy Inc., together with its subsidiaries, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas in Canada, the United States and the Asia Pacific region. The company operates through Oil Sands, Conventional, and Refining and Marketing segments. The Oil Sands segment develops and produces bitumen in northeast Alberta. Its bitumen assets include Foster Creek, Christina Lake, and Narrows Lake, as well as other projects in the early stages of development. The Conventional segment holds assets primarily located in Elmworth-Wapiti, Kaybob-Edson, and Clearwater operating areas of British Columbia and Alberta, as well as various interests in natural gas processing facilities. The Refining and Marketing segment transports and sells crude oil, natural gas, and NGLs. This segment owns a 50% ownership in Wood River and Borger refineries located in the United States; and owns and operates a crude-by-rail terminal in Alberta. Cenovus Energy Inc. was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Read More 8 hours ago Live updates: California nearing 5 million coronavirus cases SACRAMENTO, Calif. California health officials say the omicron variant is evident in 50% to 70% of new coronavirus cases in parts of the most populous state heading into the holidays, with the state nearing a total of 5 million virus infections for the pandemic. The U.S. Read Article William Lyon Homes (NYSE:WLH) released its earnings results on Wednesday, November, 6th. The construction company reported $0.37 EPS for the quarter, beating the Thomson Reuters' consensus estimate of $0.30 by $0.07. The construction company earned $466.90 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $487.15 million. William Lyon Homes had a trailing twelve-month return on equity of 6.98% and a net margin of 3.04%. The business's quarterly revenue was down 12.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.68 earnings per share. View William Lyon Homes' earnings history. Airbus SE engages in the design, manufacture, delivery and provision of aerospace products, space and related services. It operates through the following segments: Airbus Commercial Aircraft, Airbus Helicopters and Airbus Defence and Space. The Airbus Commercial Aircraft segment develops, manufactures, markets and sells commercial jet aircrafts and offers aircraft conversion and related services. The Airbus Helicopters segment deals with the development, manufacture, marketing and sale of civil and military helicopters. The Airbus Defence and Space segment covers systems and services in the field of defence and space for governments, institutions, and commercial customers. The company was founded on December 29, 1998 and is headquartered in Leiden, the Netherlands. Read More The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. is an insurance and financial services company. The company provides life insurance, group and employee benefits, automobile and homeowners insurance and business insurance, as well as investment products, annuities, mutual funds, and college savings plans. It operates through the following segments: Commercial Lines, Personal Lines, Property & Casualty Other Operations, Group Benefits and Hartford Funds. The Commercial Lines segment provides workers compensation, property, automobile, liability and umbrella coverage under several different products, primarily throughout the U.S., within its standard commercial lines, which consists of The Hartford's small commercial and middle market lines of business. The Personal Lines segment includes automobile, homeowners and home-based business coverage to individuals across the U.S. The Property & Casualty Other Operations segment includes certain property and casualty operations, currently managed by the company, that have discontinued writing new business and substantially all of the company's asbestos and environmental exposures. The Group Benefits segment offers group life, accident and disabi Read More iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF's stock was trading at $158.09 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, IWF stock has increased by 92.9% and is now trading at $304.95. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. iShares MSCI United Kingdom ETF's stock was trading at $25.60 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Since then, EWU shares have increased by 28.5% and is now trading at $32.90. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Swiss Re AG is a wholesale provider of reinsurance, insurance and other insurance-based forms of risk transfer. The Company operates in four segments: Property&Casualty Reinsurance, Life&Health Reinsurance, Corporate Solutions and Life Capital. Its Reinsurance Unit provides premiums and fee income through Property&Casualty and Life&Health segments. Its Corporate Solutions segment is engaged in serving mid-sized and large corporations, with product offerings ranging from traditional property and casualty insurance to customized solutions. Its Admin Re segment provides risk and capital management solutions by which the Company acquires closed books of in-force life and health insurance business, entire lines of business, or the entire capital stock of life insurance companies. Its open and closed life insurance books, including Admin Re, are managed under a unit called Life Capital. Read More Victoria Gold Corp. engages in the acquisition, evaluation, and exploration of mineral properties in Canada and the United States. The company primarily explores for gold deposits. Its principal property is 100% owned Dublin Gulch property, which hosts the Eagle Gold deposit covering an area of approximately 555 square kilometers located in central Yukon, Canada. The company was formerly known as Victoria Resource Corporation and changed its name to Victoria Gold Corp. in July 2008. Victoria Gold Corp. was founded in 1981 and is based in Toronto, Canada. Read More Intu owns and manages some of the best shopping centres, in some of the strongest locations, in the UK and Spain. Our UK portfolio is made up of 17 centres, including eight of the top-20, and in Spain we own three of the country's top-10 centres, with advanced plans to build a fourth. We are passionate about creating compelling experiences, in centre and online, that make our customers smile and help our retailers flourish. We attract around 400 million customer visits and 26 million website visits a year offering a multichannel approach that truly supports retail strategies. Our strategic focus on prime, high-footfall flagship destinations, combined with the strength and popularity of our brand, means that intu offers enhanced footfall, dwell time and loyalty. This helps our tenants flourish, driving occupancy and income growth. We are committed to our local communities, with our centres supporting nearly 130,000 jobs (representing about 3 per cent of the total UK retail workforce), and to operating with environmental responsibility. We have already met or exceeded a significant number of our 2020 environmental targets. Read More Premier African Minerals Limited, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mining, exploration, evaluation, development, and investment of natural resource properties on the African continent. The company explores for tungsten, lithium, tantalum, fluorspar, xenotime, zinc, nickel, uranium, gold, specialty minerals, limestone, potash and limestone, and rare earth metals. It holds interests in various properties located in Zimbabwe, Togo, Benin, and Mozambique. The company was formerly known as G&B African Resources Limited and changed its name to Premier African Minerals Limited in April 2012. Premier African Minerals Limited was founded in 2007 and is based in Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Read More The following companies are subsidiares of Quaker Chemical: AC Products Inc., Applied Surface Concepts Holdings Ltd. , Binol AB, Binol Biosafe OY, Commonwealth Oil Corporation, DA Stuart India Private Limited, DA Stuart Shanghai Co, ECLI Products LLC, EFHCO LLC, Engineered Custom Lubricants, Engineered Custom Lubricants GmbH, Epmar Corporation, G.W. Smith and Sons, GH Holdings Inc., GHG Lubricants Holdings Limited, GHGL London Ltd., GHI Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Global Houghton Ltd., Houghton (Shanghai) Specialty Industrial Fluids Co. Ltd, Houghton Argentina S.A., Houghton Asia Pacific Co. Limited, Houghton Australia Pty. Ltd., Houghton Benelux BV, Houghton CZ s.r.o, Houghton Canada Inc., Houghton Denmark AS, Houghton Deutschland GmbH, Houghton Europe BV, Houghton Holdings Limited, Houghton Iberica S.A. , Houghton International, Houghton International Inc., Houghton Italia S.p.A., Houghton Japan Co. Ltd., Houghton Kimya Sanayi AS, Houghton Magyarorszag Kft, Houghton Mexico S.A. de C.V., Houghton Oil (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd., Houghton Polska Sp. Zo.o., Houghton Romania S.R.L., Houghton S.A.S., Houghton Sverige AB, Houghton Taiwan Co. Limited, Houghton Technical Corp., Houghton Ukraine ToV, Houghton do Brazil Ltda., Houghton plc, Internationale Metall Impragnier GmbH, Lubricor Inc, Lubricor Inc., Lubricor Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Lubricor USA Inc., MIH Acquisition Company LLC, MX Systems International Ltd, Maldaner GmbH, NP Coil Dexter Industries, New Houghton Brazil Inc., Norman Hay Engineering Ltd., QH Chemical Limited, QH Europe BV, QH Holdings Limited, QH International Limited, Quaker (Thailand) Ltd., Quaker Australia Holdings Pty. Limited, Quaker Chemical (Australasia) Pty. Limited, Quaker Chemical (China) Co. Ltd., Quaker Chemical B.V., Quaker Chemical CV, Quaker Chemical Canada Holdings Inc., Quaker Chemical Canada Limited, Quaker Chemical Europe B.V., Quaker Chemical Holdings South Africa (Pty) Limited, Quaker Chemical India Private Limited, Quaker Chemical Industria e Comercio Ltda., Quaker Chemical Investment Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Quaker Chemical Limited, Quaker Chemical MEA FZE, Quaker Chemical Operacoes Ltda., Quaker Chemical Participacoes Ltda., Quaker Chemical S.A., Quaker Chemical S.r.l., Quaker Chemical Services EURL, Quaker Chemical South Africa (Pty.) Limited, Quaker China Holdings B.V., Quaker Denmark ApS, Quaker Houghton (Finco) Ltd., Quaker Houghton Holdings Limited, Quaker Houghton Holdings Ltd., Quaker Houghton International LP, Quaker Houghton Ltd., Quaker International Holdings LLC, Quaker Italia S.r.l., Quaker Russia B.V., Quaker Sales Europe BV, Quaker Shanghai Trading Company Limited, Quaker Spain Holding SLU, Quaker Specialty Chemicals (UK) Limited, SB Decking Inc., SIFCO Applied Surface Concepts (UK) Ltd, SIFCO Applied Surface Concepts LLC, SIFCO Concepts Sarl, SIFCO Concepts Sweden, Sterr & Eder Industrieservice GmbH, Summit Lubricants Inc, Summit Lubricants Inc., Surface Technology (Coventry) Ltd, Surface Technology (Dalian) Co Ltd, Surface Technology (East Kilbride) Ltd., Surface Technology (Leeds) Ltd, Surface Technology Aberdeen Ltd, Surface Technology Australia, Surface Technology Holdings Ltd., TecniQuimia Mexicana, Tecniquimia Mexicana S.A. de C.V., Thai Houghton 1993 Co. Ltd., Ultraseal Asia Limited, Ultraseal Chongqing Limited, Ultraseal Germany GmbH, Ultraseal International Group Ltd, Ultraseal Machinery Dongguan Ltd, Ultraseal Shanghai Limited, Ultraseal USA Inc., Unitek Servicios De Asesoria Especializad S.A de C.V., Verkol S.A.U., Verkol SAU, Wallover Enterprises Inc., Wallover Oil Company Incorporated, Wallover Oil Hamilton Inc., and Wuhan Quaker Technology Co. Ltd. Invesco BulletShares 2020 High Yield Corporate Bond ETF's stock was trading at $23.27 on March 11th, 2020 when COVID-19 (Coronavirus) reached pandemic status according to the World Health Organization. Since then, BSJK shares have increased by 0.4% and is now trading at $23.36. View which stocks have been most impacted by COVID-19. Suncor Energy Inc. operates as an integrated energy company. The company primarily focuses on developing petroleum resource basins in Canada's Athabasca oil sands; explores, acquires, develops, produces, transports, refines, and markets crude oil in Canada and internationally; markets petroleum and petrochemical products under the Petro-Canada name primarily in Canada. It operates in Oil Sands; Exploration and Production; Refining and Marketing; and Corporate and Eliminations segments. The Oil Sands segment recovers bitumen from mining and in situ operations, and upgrades it into refinery feedstock and diesel fuel, or blends the bitumen with diluent for direct sale to market. The Exploration and Production segment is involved in offshore operations off the east coast of Canada and in the North Sea; and operating onshore assets in Libya and Syria. The Refining and Marketing segment refines crude oil and intermediate feedstock into various petroleum and petrochemical products; and markets refined petroleum products to retail, commercial, and industrial customers through its other retail sellers. The Corporate and Eliminations segment operates four wind farm operations in Ontario and Western Canada. The company also markets and trades in crude oil, natural gas, byproducts, refined products, and power. The company was formerly known as Suncor Inc. and changed its name to Suncor Energy Inc. in April 1997. Suncor Energy Inc. was founded in 1917 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Read More A Richmond police officer who met with and apologized to three students and their parents for cursing at the children outside Albert Hill Middle School has decided against addressing the entire school at an assembly. The officer, whose name has not been released, met with the affected students and their parents last week, along with interim Richmond Police Chief William C. Smith, and apologized to them all. At the meeting, the officer also signed an agreement promising to attend a school assembly and address the student body. But, since then, he has reconsidered that promise and no longer feels he could handle the much larger setting of a school assembly, Smith said in a statement released Tuesday afternoon. He wants me to pass along his sincere apology for what he said that day and add another apology for not being able to meet with the entire school, the chief added. I believe that if there is any good that has come out of this, it is that the Richmond Police Department has developed a stronger, much more positive and hopeful ongoing relationship with Albert Hill Middle School. Charlottesville officials are moving forward with the West Main Streetscape project, but they will seek public input on the fate of the statue commemorating the Lewis and Clark expedition. City Council voted, 4-1, on a resolution regarding certain aspects of the project and to establish public input on the statue at its meeting on Monday. Mayor Nikuyah Walker cast the dissenting vote. The 1919 statue depicts explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark accompanied by Shoshone interpreter Sacagawea. Opponents of the statue cite its depiction of Sacagawea in a crouching, subordinate position. Anthony Guy Lopez, an enrolled member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe in South Dakota, said that the statue disrespectfully portrays American Indians. Lopez was involved in the bicentennial memorializing the expedition, and he has protested the statue. Though a plaque was installed in 2009 to honor Sacagawea, Lopez said that wasnt enough. Kamptner said that under the prior law the locality could have been in violation of the law if they even suggested a proffer that was considered unreasonable. Nobody knew what it mean to suggest if you take it to the extreme, an eye-roll or something like that if there was a disagreement, he said. The new law includes a subsection that says the developer and locality can have discussions about potential proffers. It is the verbal discussions that may not be used if there is a challenge, so thats something that community development staff will need to be mindful of if theyre sending written comments, Kampter said. Fritz said that, generally, the county should not be suggesting proffers. We should be identifying what the deficiencies are and possible ways that the applicant can address those and let the applicant suggest the proffer, he said. State Sen. R. Creigh Deeds, D-Bath, who voted against the bills, said that they seemed to be an overreaction to the mistakes that were made with the initial legislation. Faced with increasing political backlash, last year Dominion led the General Assembly in a comprehensive rewrite of regulatory law. The SCC is again restricted in its ability to oversee electricity rates, and the utilities are granted wide latitude to reinvest profits in new technologies and expansion projects. The members of the Virginia Energy Reform Coalition said states such as Texas and Ohio have devised successful ways to deregulate the energy market and usher in competition that saves money for consumers. They consulted with Pat Wood III, who led the Texas utility commission in the late 1990s and served as chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission under President George W. Bush. Wood said at the press conference that the idea is to construct a market that allows consumers to benefit from competitive pressures that can drive down energy prices, just as Dominion and Appalachian Power benefit now from fluctuations in the wholesale market. In Texas, he said, that involved breaking up the big utilities and selling off their generation plants. As a result, he said, the energy market has evolved faster to embrace new technology and alternate sources. Sometimes, a high school teacher can become the spark that catapults a students career forward in an unexpected and surprising way. For Erin Johnson, a professor in Dals Faculty of Science and of the worlds leading experts in theoretical chemistry, it was David Schneider, a grade 12 chemistry teacher who showed her how math could be used to predict and describe atomic orbitals. I found it fascinating that math could describe the structure of matter on such a fundamental level, says Dr. Johnson. The next semester, I took a co-op placement in a theoretical chemistry group at Carleton University, where I discovered my love of research. I was lucky enough to be able to stay involved in undergraduate research throughout my time at Carleton, and I decided to continue in this area for my graduate studies. And this week, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) will honour her outstanding contributions to the field with the E.W.R Steacie Memorial Fellowship, a prestigious fellowship awarded to enhance the career development of outstanding and highly promising university faculty who are earning a strong international reputation for original research. Dr. Johnson will receive her award today (Monday, May 6) from The Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada at a reception in Ottawas Rideau Hall. This fellowship is an unparalleled opportunity for thinking time. Having uninterrupted blocks of time for research, particularly to think about projects, is invaluable and can be hard to come by since faculty members have to split their time between research, teaching, and service, she says. This fellowship gives faculty teaching and service relief, so they can devote much more of their time to research. The E.W.R Steacie Memorial Fellowship was created to honour the memory of Dr. Edgar William Richard Steacie, an outstanding chemist and research leader. NSERC awards up to six Steacie Fellowships that are held for a two-year period. Since 1976, Dalhousie has had nine other recipients, including Randall Martin (2012) and Boris Worm (2011). Successful fellows step away from teaching and administrative duties so they can devote all their time and energy to research with a grant of $250,000 over two years. Having that dedicated time to devote to pursue a specific research area is something to which Dr. Johnson looks forward. I'm hoping that the thinking time provided by this fellowship will allow me to develop new theoretical methods to improve the accuracy of computational predictions for systems that are problematic for existing techniques. One example is intermolecular charge-transfer interactions. I'm also hoping to make a big push on our work towards molecular crystal structure prediction. A creative and prolific scientist A graduate of Carlton University in Ottawa, and Queens University in Kingston, Dr. Johnsons research is focused in the area of theoretical chemistry, where computational tools are used to model chemistry at the atomic level. She explains the basics of her work: We develop theories that describe the interactions between electrons, which enable us to predict the properties of atoms, molecules, and materials, which make up all matter. With theoretical chemistry, it is in principle possible to predict the outcomes of reactions and design new compounds or materials computationally, without going into the laboratory. The highly technical nature of theoretical chemistry is no small feat to understand for most of us, but with possible real-world applications, those computational models are rapidly gaining prominence with possible global benefits including the design of new drugs, catalysts, materials for energy applications, and more. Even though she is early in her career, Dr. Johnsons research is already contributing to a growing body of academic knowledge of computational chemistry. Shes published 108 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals, which have received over 12,000 citations nearly tenfold what might be expected for someone at this stage of their career. In fact, Dr. Johnson has been referred to as not only the best young theoretical chemist in Canada, but perhaps the best young chemist (of any kind) in all of North America. I love what I do because of the aspects of discovery, problem solving, and expanding understanding. It's very exciting when you are developing a method or studying an application and your theories are working, providing new insight and a better description of chemistry. A legacy of research, teaching and mentoring Dr. Johnsons own teachers and mentors have also been a big source of inspiration for her career interests. I've been inspired by a number of people, says Dr. Johnson. First, my parents for encouraging me to think critically and to enjoy math and science. Another early inspiration was my high-school chemistry teacher, who I already mentioned was key in my decision to pursue chemistry in university. Dr. Johnsons undergraduate research advisor, Professor Gino DiLabio (UBC Okanagan) also had a hand in channeling her early interests in chemistry into a focused path forward. It was through working with Gino that my abilities as a researcher flourished and he inspired me to continue in research, going on to graduate school, a post-doc, and eventually a faculty position. Gino is an outstanding mentor, collaborator, and friend. Dr. Johnson also holds the Herzberg-Becke Chair in Theoretical Chemistry , and her early work with Dal colleague Axel Becke set her career on a path for success. The Herzberg-Becke Chair came about after Dalhousie's Prof. Axel Becke was awarded NSERC's Herzberg medal. He donated a portion of the fellowship money to fund the resulting faculty position. Axel was my PhD advisor and has had a profound impact on my career. Axel is a truly remarkable scientist and a good friend. I am deeply honoured to hold the chair. Dr. Johnson now cherishes her own role as a teacher and mentor, particularly as students develop along their own paths to becoming accomplished academics. Teaching and providing mentorship to the graduate students in my group can be a very rewarding experience, she says. It's gratifying to see them grow and evolve as researchers and as people over the course of their degrees. I like to think that I am always available for my students. The collaborative and collegial nature of the chemistry department at Dal has become one of Dr. Johnsons favourite parts about being on campus. I'm looking forward to continuing my research here at Dal, working with my students and colleagues to do some exciting new science. My favourite part about being at Dal is the culture in the chemistry department. (There are) excellent researchers and it is a great environment in which to do science. With the E.W.R. Steacie Fellowships financial support, shell be able to continue to fund graduate students, and grow her team with the addition of new students and new post-docs to Dalhousie. Her role as a faculty member and contributing to the success of another generation of Dalhousie chemists is something Dr. Johnsons sees as both a privilege and a serious responsibility. I feel that my responsibility as their advisor isn't just limited to their technical work, but instead extends to helping students succeed during and beyond their time at Dal. I'm extremely proud of my students when they leave my group and go on to the next steps of their career. DaytonLocal.com - 404 Page Not Found Bother... the page you're looking for has either been misplaced (sorry) or it may have been deleted. We do hope you find what you're looking for anyways. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. Through the program, Infosys Finacle identifies promising FinTech solutions from across the world and co-innovates with them to help accelerate innovations for banks. New Delhi: Lemnisk is excited to announce its partnership with Infosys Finacle. Lemnisk, an intelligent and secure Customer Data Platform for Financial Services, entered into a partnership with Finacle as part of their Finacle FinTech Connect program. Finacle FinTech Connect is an ecosystem innovation initiative that brings together banks, FinTechs, and Finacle. Through the program, Finacle identifies promising FinTech solutions from across the world and co-innovates with them to help accelerate innovations for banks. With this partnership, Lemnisk and Finacle will offer a joint solution that will enable Financial Marketers to improve customer engagement and conversions for their financial institutions through 1:1 personalization and AI-driven channel orchestration. "As banks re-imagine their business and technology landscape to stay relevant in the digital world, collaborating with the FinTech ecosystem has become a key imperative. Through our FinTech Connect program, we are nurturing a collaborative ecosystem involving banks and FinTech startups to accelerate purposeful innovation. Lemnisk is the latest FinTech to join our ecosystem and we look forward to working with them," said Venkatramana Gosavi, Global Head of Sales, Infosys Finacle. "We are pleased to be a Finacle Fintech Connect 2019 Selected Partner. Lemnisk's Customer Data Platform is already powering some of the leading global BFSI enterprises. The Finacle partnership reinforces our CDP offering for banks and accentuates our vision to be a vertical-focused solution provider. Becoming a part of the Finacle program provides us with an opportunity to work with Finacle R&D teams and also helps us in showcasing our platform to Finacle clients over 100 countries. We are looking forward to a highly productive 2019," said Subra Krishnan, CEO, Lemnisk. Mumbai: Power couple Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and Anand Ahuja are celebrating their first anniversary today, and Anand has chosen a unique way of commemorating the special occasion. Taking to Instagram, Anand, who is known for being a sneakers enthusiast and the owner of popular sneaker brand VegNonVeg, posted a series of "shoefies" along with an adorable message for Sonam, who he called his "guiding star." "Some of my favourite shoefies w my (scroll to see our first one ever) ... I love posting these not because I love shoes (and you KNOW I love shoes) but because the idea of looking down reminds me to stay present, grounded and most importantly grateful! I could tell you exactly where we were and what we were feeling at the time I took these...." Anand wrote. "Today, to reflect on 1 year of marriage and 3 years being together - nothing could be more of a blessing than to have your life partner be your best friend and also be the person that is supportive but pushes you to be better... to be the person that is unconditionally loving but will tell you when you're wrong ... and to be the person that will lead you into and through your fears - not allowing you to run away from them. Happy Anniversary to my Sonam Kapoor .. you're my guiding star! ...everyday phenomenal!" he added. The pictures shared by Anand feature a collection of sneakers worn by the duo. In the first picture, Sonam and Anand can be seen flaunting their wedding rings, while the others go on to show a variety of sneakers in different colours and textures. The couple has never shied away from sharing their beautiful moments together and have managed to garner much attention on social media because of their PDA. Anand recently shared a picture of the duo seated on the airport floor with their suitcases posing for the camera. "Airport Shenanigans w my #TBT," he wrote alongside the picture. In the picture, Anand can be seen sporting an athleisure look while Sonam was all smiles in round geeky glasses and a hat. Sonam married the Delhi-based businessman on May 8 in an Anand Karaj ceremony. After the ceremony, they also held an extravagant reception, which was attended by the who's who of Bollywood. An amalgamation of four voices, each different from the other but in complete harmony when together, the musical band Ladies Compartment is an exceptional representation of the ladies section of any train that bears female passengers. Similar to how local transportation brings together different people from around the city, the band too has members with their individualistic musical style yet relatable to everyone, and hence the bands music resonates among all kind of music lovers. Our songs resonates with everyday life along with almost cinematic romanticism of local trains. We started with a small project but now we are evolving to a larger project, says Aditi Ramesh who is a vocalist and the keyboardist in the band. Inspired by the sounds of rhythm and blues, soul, funk, folk, and jazz music, the band was formed by bassist Nandita V. and American violinist Kirsten Marea. It was when Nandita moved back to the US, that 28 year-old Aditi took over the charge with a motive to encourage other female artists to play instruments and original music. We were tired of only jamming with boys. Its a safe environment where we can develop our instrumentation without judgement and we hope to encourage other female artists to play instruments and perform their original music, says the musician. Aditi, along with other members of the band Ramya Pothuri(guitar), Aarifah Rebello(drums) and Pooja Mazoomdar(vocals) recently performed at a concert in Mumbai at NCPA. With the aim of recording original music and executing diverse daydreamed ideas, in the middle of serious jam sessions, the band performed original songs as well as some covers and collaborations with other female artiste. Our theme for this performance was to share our stories which can be collectively empowering. We are different individuals and artists with our own unique musical taste and style, but when we come together to create music for our performances, it creates dynamic rhythms and sounds which is a product of our diverse ideas, inspirations and imaginations, explains the musician. Apart from playing in the band, all the band members are in their 20s and play with multiple bands in the country. As of now, the band comprises of well-established musicians along with an upcoming talented local female artiste. When asked about their rehearsal sessions, the vocalist didnt have a clear answer for it, however, she informs that it depends on the availability of every team member. We all play with multiple bands so we make it work. We practice at different times of the day whenever everyone is available, she says. Ever since the violinist Nandita left the band, 28-year-old vocalist Pooja has become an essential part of group. According to Aditi, Pooja has played a few gigs with the band and everyone in the band connects well with her. As we started jamming with her a natural sync was formed through music, Aditi adds. As of now, the girls are busy working on recording original music for the band and also taking up freelance music projects for multiple brands. Makers of Nagarjunas upcoming film Manmadhudu 2 seem quite determined to make it larger than life. With Rakul Preet in the lead role and Nags daughter-in-law Samantha making a cameo appearance in the movie, the project had already a fair amount of glamour attached to its name. And now, Keerthy Sureshs induction into the films cast, albeit in a cameo role, comes as the cherry on top. Rahul and Keerthy happen to know each other personally, so he took the chance and asked her to make a small appearance in the film. She agreed! a source says. The film is being shot in Portugal. Some actors may return sometime this week to finish the rest of its shoot in India, added the source. With three of the best heroines appearing alongside Nagarjuna, its makers have certainly raised the bar expectations high. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a 'free hand' to Prateek Hajela, Assam NRC coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC. (Photo: File) New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday made it clear that it will not extend the July 31 deadline for finalisation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a "free hand" to Prateek Hajela, Assam NRC coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC. The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many people, who had objected to inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC are not coming forward before panels which are dealing with such complaints. The draft Assam NRC was published on July 30, 2018 in which the names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold. New Delhi/London: Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi will file a third bail plea on Wednesday before a UK court, which has already rejected his bail twice before as he fights his extradition case in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to USD 2 billion. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot is scheduled to hear the third bail application at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London. It remains unconfirmed whether Nirav Modi will appear in person or via video link from Wandsworth prison in south-west London, where the 48-year-old has been lodged since his arrest in March. His barrister, Clare Montgomery, will seek to convince the judge of a change of circumstances in order to seek bail for a third time at the same court. "He has had his two bail applications in the lower court. He can only make a third application if he can persuade the court that there has been a change in circumstances. He is arguing a change of circumstances based on new evidence," said a spokesperson for the UK's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which represents the Indian government in the extradition proceedings. "He will have to seek to persuade the Judge that this constitutes a change of circumstances and that he should be permitted to make another bail application," the spokesperson said. Nirav Modi's legal team, led by solicitor Anand Doobay, have previously offered 1 million pounds as security alongside an offer to meet stringent electronic tag restrictions on their client's movements, "akin to house arrest". It remains to be seen how they plan to bolster the application for a third attempt before the same court. "This is a case of substantial fraud, with loss to a bank in India of between USD 1-2 billion. I am not persuaded that the conditional bail sought will meet the concerns of the government of India in this case," Judge Arbuthnot had said, when rejecting the previous bail application. She also noted that "very unusually in a fraud case", Nirav Modi had made death threats to witnesses and also attempted to destroy evidence in the case. The diamond dealer's "lack of community ties" in the UK and an attempt to acquire the citizenship of Vanuatu -- a remote island in the South Pacific Ocean -- in late 2017 went against him, as the judge said it seemed like he was trying to "move away from India at an important time". The CPS team, represented by barrister Nick Hearn from Furnival Chambers, is expected to oppose the latest bail application on similar grounds. At the last hearing in the extradition case on April 26, when Nirav Modi had appeared before Judge Arbuthnot via video link from prison, no application had been made for bail and he was further remanded in judicial custody until May 24. The court was also told that May 30 had been tentatively ear-marked as the first case management hearing ahead of an extradition trial, but it now remains to be seen how the case will progress after the latest bail application. Nirav Modi was arrested by Scotland Yard officers in central London on March 19. During subsequent hearings, Westminster Magistrates' Court was told that Nirav Modi was the "principal beneficiary" of the fraudulent issuance of letters of undertaking (LoUs) as part of a conspiracy to defraud PNB and then laundering the proceeds of crime. While 21 people had perished in Puri district, Cuttack reported five deaths followed by four cases each from Jajpur and Mayurbhanj districts. (Photo: AP | File) Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Tuesday sought the Centre's help in restoration power and telecom services in Puri and Khurda districts, worst hit by cyclone 'Fani', due to shortage of skilled manpower, an official said. The state has to install as many as 1.56 lakh electric poles. According to an official, the toll in the cyclone, which hit the state Friday, rose to 37 on Tuesday with two more death reported in Cuttack district as the struggle to restore power, drinking water and telecom infrastructure continued. While 21 people had perished in Puri district, Cuttack reported five deaths followed by four cases each from Jajpur and Mayurbhanj districts. Kendrapara district reported three deaths, Special relief commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said. "We have sought the Centre's help in providing skilled manpower to assist Odisha in restoration of electricity supply in the worst cyclone-hit districts of Puri and Khurda," Chief Secretary A P Padhi told reporters after meeting with Union Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha via video conference. He said though the state government has been able to restore water supply in Puri and Bhubaneswar by using diesel generators, it has been an uphill task to provide electricity to people in view of massive destruction of power infrastructure. Padhi said Odisha has requested the Centre to send 5,000 skilled manpower from neighbouring West Bengal, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. These people will be deployed in erecting electric poles and draw wire on them which would facilitate the state to restore power supply in a time-bound manner, he said. However, the Odisha chief secretary did not give any timeline for restoration of electricity service. "I am not certain when exactly all areas will be provided electricity supply. We have already started the process of providing power to the consumers in a phased manner. In view of the massive destruction, one cannot give a timeline," Padhi said. During a review meeting, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik admitted that telecommunication network has completely collapsed in Puri and said the state has urged the Centre to make Mobile Tower on Wheels available in the district to facilitate relief and restoration works. He said lack of telecommunication has adversely affected relief and restoration works. Relief distribution work was launched in Bhubaneswar Tuesday and the same will start in parts of Khurda district from Wednesday, Patnaik said. In absence of drinking water and electricity during the mid-May summer, life in the coastal districts remained derailed even four days after the calamity. The miseries of the people were compounded with high levels of humidity which soared above 90 per cent in coastal districts. "Everything is dependent on power supply. If there is no electricity, the filling stations cannot operate even though they have enough stock of petrol and diesel," Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said. With acute shortage of drinking water, lack of power supply and ATMs becoming defunct, many people, mostly students and elderly persons, have started leaving the state capital for their native places. "There is rush at the bus stand as people move to their villages," Odisha Private Bus Owners Association secretary Tusharkant Acharya said. He said though 400 buses are now plying in the state, more are required to meet the passenger demands after the cyclone. Bus service has started in 80 per cent of routes as the national highways and state highways have been cleared of blockades. Though train service from Bhubaneswar resumed on Sunday, East Coast Railways Tuesday announced cancellation of seven trains including Haridwar-Puri Kalinga Express, Chennai-Santragachi Suvidha Express, Neelachal Express, Puri-Shalimar Express. Meanwhile, the Centre Tuesday extended the last date of registration for students of Odisha to enrol in the JEE (advanced) exam. The eligible students were to resister their names online between May 3 and 9. "I am happy to announce that students from Odisha appearing JEE (Advance) 2019 will get an extension of 5 days till May 14 for their registration. A decision to this effect was taken following the request of Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik," Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar tweeted. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu extended a helping hand to cyclone-ravaged Odisha and tweeted, "A team of 2055 workers, shift operators and staff from energy department will be deputed for rectification work so that service can be restored at a faster pace." He also announced an assistance of Rs 15 crore for the cyclone victims of Odisha. Former prime minister HD Deve Gowda and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy spoke to Patnaik on Tuesday and expressed their solidarity with the people of Odisha. Financial assistance poured in from many quarters with industrialist Gautam Adani contributing Rs 25 crore and ICICI Bank Rs 10 crore to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys (IMFA) also contributed Rs 75 lakh for the cyclone victims. The ceasefire between Mamata and Rahul might be due to the KCR-Vijayan meet on a federal front plan. (Photo: PTI) Mumbai: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, who has been at the forefront of stitching together a non-BJP, non-Congress front, may have had an impact in West Bengal after meeting with his Kerala counterpart. BJP has relentlessly attacked both Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee. On Tuesday, campaigning in the same district, Rahul and Mamata tiptoed around each other. Congress chief Rahul certainly seemed to offer a truce. Rahul, speaking in Purulia, attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi but mentioned Mamata maybe twice, versus 20 Modi mentions. Attacking Mamata, Rahul said, Modi had promised Rs 15 lakh to everyone. Has anyone here got that money? Surely someone should have. Has Modi or Mamata given anyone a job? Has Modi got a fair price for farmers? Has Mamata?" But previously, Rahul had attacked Mamata Banerjee for failing the jobless and the farmers. "Have Mamata or Modi given jobs to anyone here? No one. What has Mamataji done for development here in the last few years? Jobs? Farmers? Narendra Modi lies. And the chief minister makes promises but doesn't deliver," Rahul Gandhi had said. Responding to the attack, Mamata called Rahul Gandhi a "bachcha chhele" or "young lad." On Tuesday, though she was campaigning not far from where Gandhi was in Purulia, she did not attack the Congress at all. She only focused on BJP president Amit Shah and PM Modi. On the same day, Amit Shah slammed Mamata over the 'Jai Shri Ram' slogan. On Sunday, she had chided people who had shouted that slogan as her car went past in a town in West Midnapore district. The ceasefire between Mamata and Rahul might be due to the KCR-Vijayan meet on a federal front plan. KCR's Telangana Rashtra Samiti is one of six that want to be seen as equidistant from the BJP and the Congress. The other parties include BJD, YSR Congress, Samajwadi Party, BSP and Trinamool Congress. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. According to a forest source, yet another man-elephant conflict was recorded at Anaikatty in Coimbatore forest division on Wednesday. (Representaitonal picture) COIMBATORE: Two including a 80-year-old tribal woman was killed in an elephant attack near Anaikatty in the suburbs of the city here, on Wednesday. Man-animal conflict is frequently recorded in the Western Ghats, especially in Anaikatty that comes under the Periyanaickenpalayam range in Coimbatore forest division. Within the last 45 days, four people, including two women were reportedly killed in an elephant attack in nearby Anaikatty. According to a forest source, yet another man-elephant conflict was recorded at Anaikatty in Coimbatore forest division on Wednesday. Nanjan, a tribal residing in Kondanoor tribal village in the Anaikatty hills and his wife Ponnammal (80) died after being attacked by a wild elephant, while they were returning after attending nature's call in the early hours of Wednesday. On receiving information from local tribals, Periyanaickenpalyam police along with forest department officials rushed to the spot and sent the body to the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) for post-mortem. In a similar incident, 62-year- old senior citizen, Rangasamy, a resident of Anaikatty, was trampled by a wild elephant on Wednesday while returning home at the Solayoor bus stop, close to the Kerala border. The serial incidents have triggered panic among residents of Anaikatty, and they demand that the forest department provide necessary protection. New Delhi: Observing that it cannot go into the merits of the orders passed by the Election Commission giving clean chit to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah, the Supreme Court on Wednesday dismissed the petition filed by Congress MP Sushmita Dev to direct Commission for taking action for hate speech. A Bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta told senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for the petitioner that since the Commission had disposed of the complaints the matter had become infructuous and asked the petitioner to file a fresh petition challenging the Commissions orders. Senior Counsel Rakesh Dwivedi appearing for the Election Commission informed the court that the Commission has decided on the 11 complaints against Prime Minister Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah and that these orders have not been challenged in court so far. When Mr. Singhvi also raised the issue of Modi terming late Rajiv Gandhi brashtachari no.1 in an election speech, the court said it would not examine this as the scope of the plea cannot be examined. On Tuesday, the Congress MP had filed an additional affidavit in her petition, alleging that EC had not applied its mind properly in the complaints, and that the orders were passed belatedly in order to give undue edge to the BJP. It also complained that the Election Commissions clean chits were arbitrary and opaque. The ECI is also adopting double standards, as it has acted against similar comments made by other leaders, while letting off Modi and Shah, she had added. The affidavit said it was also imperative to note that the Prime Ministers speeches were punishable under Section 153A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, as they blatantly promote disharmony and feelings of enmity on the grounds of religion and such acts are also likely to prejudice the maintenance of public harmony and tranquility between religious communities. The Congress pointed out that the dissent reported and given by one of the Election Commissioners was not being placed in the public domain by the ECI. This demonstrates a complete lack of transparency and arbitrariness of the ECIs decision-making process on complaints against Mr. Modi and Amit Shah, the affidavit said. The Congress presented a chart of 11 complaints of hate speech and alleged misuse of the armed forces for purpose of election propaganda filed in the ECI against Mr. Modi and Mr. Shah. Seven of them were against Mr. Modi. One, concerning a speech in Wardha, was inexplicably kept pending by the ECI for 25 days before it exonerated Mr. Modi without assigning any reasons for arriving at the decision. Complaints have either been dismissed without assigning reasons or no action had been taken on them by the ECI. One of them, alleged misuse of government or official machinery had been forwarded to the Niti Aayog. The Congress wondered why the ECI has a different set of rules for Mr. Modi and Mr. Shah. Kochi: The NIA on Wednesday interrogated Muhammad Faisal Hameed, 25, a native of Chengankulangara, alleged to be a member of Islamic State (IS) linked module that was planning attacks in Kerala. Faisal, who was in Qatar, landed at Nedumbassery airport on Tuesday evening and appeared at the NIA office on Wednesday for interrogation. He is the 19th accused in the case against members of IS-linked module based in Kasargode. The interrogation continued from morning to evening and will be interrogated again on Thursday, sourced said. Through interrogation, the NIA is expecting more information about Keralities who joined IS at Syria and Afganistan. The agency had earlier arrested Riyas Aboobacker, a member of the module who planned suicide attack in Kerala. Bhopal: A weird poll battle is being witnessed in Guna Lok Sabha constituency in Madhya Pradesh, where AICC general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindia is seeking re-election. Congress leader Lokendra Singh Rajput is in fray in the seat as a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) candidate officially with the Mayawatis party vigorously campaigning in the constituency to ensure his victory. We have intensified our campaign in the constituency asking BSP sympathisers to vote for partys symbol elephant, MP unit president of BSP D.P. Choudhury told this newspaper on Wednesday. Interestingly, former BSP leader Mr Rajput had earlier filed his nomination as party candidate for Guna. He however resigned from his party and joined Congress on the last day of withdrawal of nomination, denying BSP to field an alternative party candidate in the constituency. Peeved at the development, BSP supremo asked state party leadership to intensify campaign in the constituency to ensure that people cast their votes in BSP symbol to foil the design by Congress to transfer BSP votes to its candidate in the constituency by wooing away Mr Rajput. In fact, Ms Mayawati addressed a public meeting in Datia in the neighbouring Lok Sabha constituency of Bhind a couple of days ago appealing her supporters in Guna to cast their votes for BSP symbol. BSP sources said the party wanted to divide non-BJP votes hurting prospects of Congress in the constituency to teach Congress a lesson for allegedly poaching its candidate. The original was founded by Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed in Old Delhi in the early 1900s while the one in Pakistan was founded by his son Hakeem Mohammed Said, who had migrated in 1948 post-partition. Chennai: Amid reports that Rooh Afza, the staple Iftar drink during the Holy Month of Ramadan, has been in short supply in the Indian market and is in fact unavailable for purchase here for over four months now, the producer of the popular beverage in Pakistan has offered to help with stocks. A report in Khaleez Times said the Hamdard Laboratories in India, which produces Rooh Afza in India, has reported big shortfall in the supplies owing to lack of raw material. "However, according to sources, a dispute among company owners is hampering supply", said Khaleez Times in its web report on Wednesday. On learning about the shortage in India, 'Laboratories Waqf Pakistan' has offered to supply the drink through the Wagah border, said the report while quoting Managing Director and CEO Usama Qureshi of Pakistani Hamdard tweeting: "We can supply RoohAfza and RoohAfzaGO to India this Ramdan. We can easily send trucks through Wagah border if permitted by Indian Government". The report also said India and Pakistan have "common ancestry" regarding the Hamdard Laboratories. The original was founded by Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed in Old Delhi in the early 1900s while the one in Pakistan was founded by his son Hakeem Mohammed Said, who had migrated in 1948 post-partition. Chennai: A public interest litigation has been filed in the Madras high court, challenging the deletion of nearly 45,000 names from the voters list of coastal areas of Kanyakumari district during the April 18 Lok Sabha polls to the Kanyakumari Parliamentary constituency. A division bench comprising Justices S.Vaidyanathan and Subramonium Prasad before whom the PIL filed by Rajkumar. A, district coordinator of Tamil Meenavar Koottamaippu, came up for hearing ordered notice to the Election Commission of India and posted after summer vacation, further hearing of the case. In his petition, Rajkumar sought a direction to the ECI to file a status report with regard to deletion of nearly 45,000 voters by taking into account the voters list of 2016 assembly election and 2019 parliament election of six assembly constituencies of Kanyakynaru district. He also sought a direction to the ECI to hold reelection in the respective polling stations, where deletion of voters has taken place by including all the voters. According to petitioner, the coastal villages of Thoothur, Chinnathurai, Kadiyapattinam, Rajakkamangalam, Thuraimanavalakurichi, Mullloorthurai, Idalakudi and other coastal villages witnessed mass deletion of voters. They were quite shocked when they visited the polling stations since they could not find their names in the voters list. Since most of the voters were fisher folk and most of the time they ventured into the sea for fishing, they could not check the voters list in advance. Since there was an apprehension that in view of the government's negligence in taking care of these coastal villages during the Okhi cyclone, the voters from these coastal areas may not support them during the Parliamentary election, had led to the deletion of voters, he alleged. He contended that the conduct of the ECI was violative of Article 21 of the Constitution, since right to life includes right to have a free and fair election. The conduct of ECI was violative of Article 14 of the Constitution since the mass deletion of names of particular areas amounts to discrimination, he added. Hyderabad: The comments made by TRS MP B. Vinod Kumar, a close associate of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, indicate that the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) leadership would favour the Congress rather than the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in a post-election scenario. According to Mr Vinod Kumar, the Congress will get more than 100 seats in the current Lok Sabha elections and the BJP would not be able to get more than 170 seats. He said with the support of the Congress, the Federal Front will form the government just like the United Front government backed by the Congress in 1996. He also said that the Federal Front would have no option but to take the support of the Congress to form the government. Mr Kumar was with the Telangana Chief Minister when he met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday to discuss the Federal Front. Mr Rao is getting the opinions of his partys senior members on the strategy that needs to be adopted in the absence of a clear majority by any national party. According to TRS insiders, some senior leaders have suggested that it would be better to support the Congress Rahul Ga-ndhi for Prime Minister rather than Narendra Modi if the Federal Front government was not possible. Sources said Mr Rao is inclined to agree. Except for one or two, the majority of regional parties are opposed to the BJP and have a soft corner for the Congress. According to a senior leader, Though some parties have no love for the Congress, they will support it in order to stall the BJP from forming the government at the Centre again. For regional parties like the DMK, Nationalist Con-gress Party, Samajwadi, BSP, Janata Dal (S) and the Trinamool Congress, the BJP is a bitter enemy. If a non-BJP and non-Congress front is not possible, they will support the Congress in forming the government, the TRS leader said. In Andhra Pradesh, the Telugu Desam will support the Congress, while its main rival, the YSR Congress has always held that it will support any party at the Centre that grants special category status to AP. The Congress had already announced that it will grant special status to AP if voted to power, while the BJP has categorically said that it is not possible to grant special status to AP or to any other state. The Left parties too will prefer the Congress to the BJP, while Odisha Chief Minister and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik is maintaining an equal distance between the BJP and Congress. As per sources, the TRS will take a decision whether to take the support of the Congress or to support the Congress, after the Lok Sabha results are announced, and depending on the seats won by the Congress and the regional parties that are likely to support the Federal Front. Thiruvananthapuram: Father of modern legal education in India, NR Madhava Menon, passed away at a hospital in Kerela on Wednesday. He was 84. He is survived by a wife and a son. "He had been treatment for the past one week for age-related ailments at a private hospital. He left us around 11.30 pm yesterday (7 May)," a source close to the family told PTI. Menon was being treated for age-related ailments President Ram Nath Kovind condoled his death. Sorry to hear of the passing of Prof N.R. Madhava Menon, educationist, scholar and a pioneering spirit behind modern legal education in India, beginning with National Law School of India University, Bangalore. My condolences to his family and countless students #PresidentKovind President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 8, 2019 Kerala governor P Sathasivam said he was "deeply saddened" by the demise of Menon. Deeply saddened by the demise of Prof. N R #MadhavaMenon, whose insightful ideas modernised legal education in India. As an authority in legal & constitutional matters, he used his limitless erudition to build world class institutions & to enlighten generations of students. pic.twitter.com/pdIaImi94F Kerala Governor (@KeralaGovernor) May 8, 2019 Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan in his condolence message said that Menon gave a new direction to the legal education sector in the country. "The National Law School in Banglore was established due to efforts taken by Menon. Later, the then Chief Minister of West Bengal, Jyothi Basu, invited him to start a similar institution in Kolkata," Vijayan said in a release, adding that his achievements would make any Keralite proud. Menon started his legal career with the Kerala High Court at the age of 21 after graduating from Government Law College. He later shifted his base to Delhi and joined the faculty of Aligarh Muslim University in 1960. Menon moved to Delhi University in 1965 and headed the prestigious Campus Law Centre. He established the National Law Institute of India University in Bengaluru in 1986 and was the vice-chancellor of the university for 12 years. Menon was also the founding director of National Judicial Academy in Bhopal. The nation honoured him with the Padma Shri in 2003 for his contributions to the legal field. Srinagar: The BJPs allegedly trying to bribe Leh-based reporters for favourable coverage is snowballing into a major political controversy in Jammu and Kashmir and beyond. Congress and various other opposition parties and journalists bodies have demanded an impartial probe into the May 2 incident and stern action against those found guilty. However, on Wednesday, the BJP claimed that the CCTV footage of the incident does not show journalists being bribed by its leaders. The CCTV grab being circulated on the social media is of the invitation envelopes being given to reporters for the coverage of Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharamans visit to Leh on May 4. This is being shown as if money is being given to them, Vikram Randhawa said at a press conference in winter capital Jammu. He also said that some of the invitees opened the envelopes and returned them saying they did not need special invitation as they were already covering the event. He accused the Congress and anti-party elements in Kashmir for spreading canard. He said, All allegations of Leh journalists are baseless and misleading. After the event some Congress-minded journalists deliberately created hype over it alleging that money is being given to them. Theyre being supported by it (Congress) and anti-BJP elements in Kashmir to malign the image of our party." He claimed that after the presser, these same journalists were with us for about one hour and relished lavish lunch for which we paid Rs 11,000 bill. Normally when 8-10 people dine together, the bill could be Rs 1000-2000 but their lunch cost us Rs 11,000, isnt it also a type of bribe? He said that the party will file defamation case against Leh journalists. According to a complaint lodged with the police by the Press Club of Leh, the BJP leaders including its Jammu and Kashmir state president Ravinder Raina and former MLC Vikram Randhawa, tried to bribe media persons on May 2 after a press conference held in Ladakhs main town to use their platform to influence the outcome of the election. The polling in Ladakh Lok Sabha constituency was held in the fifth phase of the general elections on May 5, three days after the incident. The BJP has denied the charge and threatened to sue the journalists for defamation. However, the official sources in Leh said that the allegation has been found prima facie correct during inquiry conducted by Lehs Deputy Commissioner and election officer Avny Lavasa. She incidentally is the daughter of Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa. She said that steps have been initiated for filing a First Information Report or FIR in the case after a probe was conducted. She said that although the complaint alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by the BJP leaders, it amounted to a criminal offence. She added that it is a non-cognizable offence. The Leh police put up the case before the district court on Tuesday and is now waiting for its directions to file an FIR in the matter. The local journalists have alleged that after Raina addressed a press conference in Leh on May 2 ahead of Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's rally in the town his party colleague and former lawmaker Randhawa started distributing envelopes to them. Tsewang Rigzin, one of the reporters who covered the presser, said that they were shocked to see Rs 500 notes in these envelopes. Feeling insulted, they returned the envelopes outright. We showed our anguish then and there at the BJPs audacity to bribe us, said Rigzin. Two days later, seven journalists including Morup Stanzin and Rinchen Angmo, presidents of Press Club of Leh and Ladakh Journalists Union, respectively, approached police station Leh and filed a complaint, requesting it to register an FIR against the accused for allegedly violating the MCC and for trying to bride media persons. A statement issued by the Press Club of Leh said that the BJP leaders act was a clear violation of MCC and an attempt to belittle the dignity of media men in Leh. It said that the members of the Leh-based media fraternity have fought corruption and that it was now up to the authorities to take appropriate action in the matter. Weve done our duty. The ball is now in the authorities court, said Angmo. The BJP was quick to deny the charge. It claimed that the envelopes contained the invitations to media persons to cover the party rally which was to be addressed Defence Minister and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu. Raina issued a statement on May 5 alleging that the Press Club of Leh was spreading false propaganda against him and his party and it was politically motivated. He sought a written apology within 48 hours or else threatened to file a defamation case against it. However, a video has now emerged showing Randhawa handing out envelopes to journalists in presence of his partys State unit head. The video is actually CCTV footage from Hotel Sangaylay in Leh, the venue for the BJP leaders press conference. It shows a woman leaving an envelope on the table. She has now said that when she asked Randhawa about the Rs. 500 notes being in the envelope he told her that it was a token of love. She and other journalists have also said that when they objected to it, the BJP leader told them that they do this in Jammu too, so what was the problem. Reacting to the incident, former chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah tweeted We expect @JmuKmrPolice & @SpokespersonECI @ECISVEEP to take cognisance of this complaint filed by the Press Club in Leh. Later he wrote on micro-blogging site In light of the CCTV footage purported to show BJP leaders attempting to bribe journalists in Leh I'm retweeting my original tweet with the letter of complaint by the Press Club Leh. Action must follow". PDP president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti also tweeted on the incident. She said, If a Congress / TMC / BSP / SP leader was caught trying to pay off media with such solid evidence, media wouldve gone hammer & tongs about it. Why the radio silence & no hashtags? Glad to know that some have the guts to refuse. Proud of Avny Lavasa who put them in their place. The Indian Journalists Union (IJU) has while saluting the Leh-based journalists for upholding the best tradition of journalism and integrity, urged the District Electoral Officer to take strict action as per the law against the two leaders, who following an inquiry have been found guilty and the police have been asked to register a FIR against them. The IJU president and Press Council member Amar Devulapalli and secretary general and IFJ vice-president, Sabina Inderjit expressed solidarity with its affiliate Ladakh Journalists Union, the Press Club Leh for their exemplary action and pursuing the matter since 2 May. The IJU said that the BJP leaders have had to eat their own words as the inquiry has revealed that they tried to bribe the journalists, which is a clear violation of the MCC. The IJU also said that it is committed to extend all support to the scribes in Leh to take this case to its logical conclusion and ensure that such brazen attempts to influence the media by the BJP are exposed. The PDP in a statement on Wednesday said the Leh incident reflects BJPs mindset towards the vital and important institutions of democracy and how the party is out to defame and destroy one of the honest and sincere professions of the world. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. On Jammu and Kashmir, Shah made BJP's stand clear that they would surely remove article 370 from the state. (Photo: ANI twitter) Jamshedpur: BJP President Amit Shah asserted on Wednesday that the only relevant issue in this election is national security and there is only one man who hasdelivered results on this count and that is Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Don't give vote for development works to BJP candidate Bidyut Baran Mahto in Jamshedpur; vote for him because Narendra Modi made the country's border secure. The Prime Minister has taken effective steps to secure the borders of the country. In the regime of UPA-I and II, enemy forces used to run havoc in the country but no action was taken on that front," he said addressing an election rally. "In the recent past, our 40 security personnel lost their lives in the attack by Pakistan-aided terrorism in Pulwama. Due to the decisive nature of PM Modi, our brave Indian Air Force (IAF) troops retaliated and entered enemy territory to debase their terror camps. India is only the third country after Israel and United States of America (USA) to have retaliated to terrorism in this brave manner," Shah asserted. He attacked the opposition saying, "After our surgical strike, everywhere there was a celebratory atmosphere but there was widespread hopelessness in Pakistan and in the Congress camp." On Jammu and Kashmir, Shah made BJP's stand clear that they would surely remove article 370 from the state. "Omar Abdullah said that Jammu and Kashmir should have a separate Prime Minister. We will never let that happen and we will surely remove article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said. "I have been to 296 Lok Sabha constituencies around the country and everywhere in the country there is only one wave - 'Modi, Modi'. The people of India were looking for a person for 70 years who will not work for his own family but for every person in the country. That man is Narendra Modi," he contended. Shah spoke about Jamshedpur as being India's pride. "Jamshedpur is India's pride. Inspired by Swami Vivekananda, Jamshedji Tata founded India's first steel factory in Jamshedpur," he said. "I want to talk about Jamshedpur. Bidyut Baran Mahto is the MP from Jamshedpur who works day and night for his constituency's welfare. At the cost of Rs 447 crores, roads have been built in Jamshedpur. At the cost of Rs 1215 crores, 121 km of national highways have been built in Jharkhand. MGM medical college's upgradation work has started," he said about Jamshedpur. "Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), 16,500 people in Jamshedpur have got houses. Duronto express has been flagged off from Jamshedpur. A Regional Passport Office has been opened in Jamshedpur. 3,05,000 children have got scholarships in Jamshedpur. 1.5 lakh houses have got piped water connection in Jamshedpur," he added. "Along with the central government, the Raghuvar Das government in Jharkhand has also done good work. The state government took the agricultural growth rate from -4.5% to 14% in the state in the last 5 years. More than 35 lakh employment opportunities were created and around one lakh government jobs were created for the people of Jharkhand. 13 Polytechnics and 6 medical colleges were opened. Earlier, there were 300 medical seats; now the figure stands at 900. Naxalism has more or less been wiped off from Jharkhand," he stated. He finally appealed for votes from the people for BJP in large numbers. Jharkhand has polls in four phases out of which two phases are over and two remain on May 12 and 19. The counting of votes shall take place on May 23. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. New Delhi: Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram said macro economic indicators confirm that the Indian economy has entered a "disastrous phase of slowdown" and criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for their failures. He also accused Jaitley of perfecting the art of "concealing" data and projecting "doctored" information. "The Finance Ministry's report is a damning indictment of the state of the economy in the country. This is perhaps the weakest point in the economy," he told reporters here, adding the next government has a lot of work to repair the economy to which the BJP has done "great damage". "With each passing day, as Modi indulges in vile rhetoric, the Finance Minister blogs poor attempts at rationalising that language. The former Finance minister said the economy has gone to "rack and ruin" and the Finance Ministry's report for March 2019 lays bare the "false propaganda" of the BJP government. "The NSSO revelations have blown a huge hole in the growth figures put out by the CSO. It turns out that the government has been using bogus data. "The CSO's growth figures are a sham. The CSO's complicity in putting out false data is a scam that needs to be investigated first," he said, alleging that the political leadership has "interfered" and "intimidated" the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO). "However much Modi may try to take the narrative away from the economy, ultimately the people will vote on issues that affect their daily lives -- jobs, infrastructure, investment, farmers' distress and debt, ruin of MSMEs, stagnant incomes," he noted. The Congress leader said the Indian economy has entered a "disastrous" phase of economic slowdown under the Modi-Jaitley "jugalbandi" reflected by the consistent fall in quarterly growth of real GDP. He claimed that a shortfall of Rs 1.6 lakh crore in the tax revenues would effectively increase the actual fiscal deficit to 3.9 per cent and "the economy is expected to slow down further". He said once in power, the Congress will adopt a sectoral approach to revive various sectors of economy and find a solution to each of them, besides consolidating banks. "The Finance Minister has perfected the art of concealing data and projecting doctored information. Contrary to the false narratives of the Modi Government, the poorest Indians have been worst sufferers of the economic mismanagement," he said. The former minister said the Oxfam's Global Inequality Report 2018 showed that 73 per cent of the wealth generated in India in 2017-2018 was pocketed by the richest 1 per cent of the Indian populace, while the poorest 50 per cent saw a marginal increase of 1 per cent in their wealth over the same period. Chidambaram also dubbed the prime minister as being "the 'Naukri Vinash' PM" claiming that in 2018 India lost over 1.1 crore jobs and said Modi is the first premier whose legacy will be of a job destroying PM" built on the two "Tughlaqi farmans" of demonetisation and "Gabbar Singh Tax", referring to Goods and Services Tax (GST). "The leaked NSSO survey reports that the unemployment rate reached a 45-year high of 6.1 per cent in 2017 (nearly tripled from 2012), with the youth being the worst sufferers of the government's surgical strikes on jobs and the economy," he said. Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta had alleged in the complaint that one such meeting was held at a banquet hall in Lal Miyan on May 4 at 9 pm. (Photo: Representational) New Delhi: The owner of a banquet hall, where Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) members apparently attended a meeting without prior approval, Tuesday replied to the poll panel, saying that the session was organised by the leader of a local outfit. On Saturday, the BJP had filed a complaint with the chief electoral officer of Delhi, accusing AAP members and its MLA Amanatullah Khan of hosting meetings inside mosques to seek votes. Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta had alleged in the complaint that one such meeting was held at a banquet hall in Lal Miyan on May 4 at 9 pm. The complaint was forwarded to the returning officer of the Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha seat. A flying squad subsequently reached the spot and recorded videos of the meeting, following which the returning officer issued a show-cause notice to the banquet hall owner. In his reply, the owner said the meeting was organised by a local leader, who has now been issued a show-cause notice seeking to know why the meeting was held without an approval and the reason behind AAP leaders being present there. The BJP last week had filed a separate complaint with the Election Commission against AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, alleging that they were using the Delhi Waqf Board funds for their "minority appeasement" politics. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analyses et all. Happy reading. Amritsar: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari warned Pakistan on Wednesday that India will not hesitate to stop water of rivers flowing to that country if Islamabad does not end its support to terrorism. "The Union government is already making a road map to stop water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan," he said. Gadkari was speaking while campaigning for Amritsar BJP candidate Hardeep Puri. The minister said that the government is planning to build six water dams in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and this step would solve the water problem enormously. There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the BJP leader said. He said that the excess water will be given to Punjab and Haryana to address shortage in agriculture. On river water distribution between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, he said that the issue has to be sorted out without disturbing the water available to Punjab. Elaborating on the development work undertaken during the BJP-led NDA rule, he said that the Modi Government did what was not done in the last five decades. He said that the government was planning to begin double decker air bus service in six cities, including Amritsar. In order to promote industry and business Union, the government was planning to build Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway which would reduce the journey time by four hours between Amritsar and Delhi. Chief Minister Adityanath also directed his party workers to arrange vehicles for the poor and disabled voters on the day of polling for a better turnout of voters. (Photo: File) Gorakhpur: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday urged his party workers to post their own pictures with AIIMS in the background on social media to sweep the Lok Sabha polls in the region. Chief Minister Yogi, who had called a meeting of party workers to discuss strategies to win the Lok Sabha polls, said: "You all must get in front of AIIMS. Click a selfie and post it on social media. Voters will know how Gorakhpur has been developed. They will realise that they do not need to travel to Mumbai, Lucknow, and Delhi for tertiary care treatment." He also asked them to make efforts to win their respective booths and advised them to go for door to door campaigning. "If you manage to win your respective booths, then be sure that the party will surely win the election. Make sure that you all give your best in this election," he said. Chief Minister Adityanath also directed his party workers to arrange vehicles for the poor and disabled voters on the day of polling for a better turnout of voters. Though a stronghold of Chief Minister Adityanath, BJP lost Gorakhpur seat to Samajwadi Party in the last bye-poll. This time BJP has fielded Bhojpuri film actor Ravi Kishan, who is facing Rambhuyan Nishad of SP-BSP alliance. The election in Gorakhpur will be held on the last phase of seven-phased polling on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. Hyderabad: Relations between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana state Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao have soured after the seizure of Rs 8 crore from BJP supporters in Hyderabad, and the filing of nominations by turmeric farmers from the state against Mr Modi in Varanasi. According to top sources, BJP president Amit Shah called up Mr Rao and expressed his unhappiness over these two incidents. Just three days before the first phase of parliamentary elections, the Telangana state police seized `8 crore from BJP supporters in Hyderabad, who had withdrawn the money from the partys account in Indian Bank and were taking it to the party office. The BJP said the money was withdrawn from the partys account to meet election expenses. In the second incident, 50 turmeric farmers from Nizamabad went to Varanasi to file their nominations; Mr Modi is contesting from this constituency. About 150 turmeric farmers also filed their nominations from Nizamabad Lok Sabha constituency, from where Chief Minister Raos daughter and sitting MP, K. Kavita, contested. In his conversation with Mr Rao two days ago, Mr Shah told the Chief Minister that the state government had seized the money from BJP workers in order to damage the image of the BJP ahead of the elections. Mr Rao reportedly replied that the state government had nothing to do with the incident and that during elections, when the model code of conduct is in force such things come under the purview of the Election Commission. Mr Shah also told Mr Rao that sending the turmeric farmers to Varanasi was done in order to attract national media attention. It is somewhat of a pity that the Supreme Court knocked down the combined Opposition plea to increase the random voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) to 50 per cent of all EVMs per constituency. The crux of the matter is that the EVMs have become suspect in the eyes of the Opposition who have got into a bit of a kerfuffle over the machines that have been counting votes in Indian elections for two decades now. The concept of a free and fair poll can be enhanced if all the parties contesting the elections are convinced of EVM efficacy. The Opposition may have taken their fear of the EVM and VVPAT to levels of paranoia in 2019. Even so, fair play can be served best if all their objections are studied and a formula in terms of minimum numbers in verification is found that would satisfy most people. The EVMs have come to stay. A way forward must be found now to ensure that they function at 100 per cent efficiency on polling days. India has a vast bank of hardware and software engineers who can ensure this provided the ECI brings them into the picture. Going back to paper ballots would be unscientific in the modern era when we would be risking lives if about 900 million votes are to be counted and results declared in a reasonable timeframe. Glaring examples of the difficulties in manual counting were there in the recent Indonesian election as well as in the United States, an exemplary democracy, where doubts still linger over the final result of the 2000 presidential election featuring George W Bush and Al Gore. In the standalone EVM run on a basic Japanese chip we have evolved a system that withstands hacking. To rule out any mischievous manipulation in this is a task any dedicated Election Commission can perform. An open mind on testing the system and making it work better should be the way forward. The plane was grounded worldwide in mid-March after two Boeing 737 MAX crashes in October and March killed 346 people. (Photo: AP) The Federal Aviation Administration said on Tuesday it had convened a multi-agency Technical Advisory Board to review Boeings proposed software fix on the grounded 737 MAX. The board consists of experts from the FAA, US Air Force, NASA and Volpe National Transportation Systems Center that were not involved in any aspect of the Boeing 737 MAX certification. The boards recommendations will directly inform the FAAs decision concerning the 737 MAX fleets safe return to service. The plane was grounded worldwide in mid-March after two Boeing 737 MAX crashes in October and March killed 346 people. Boeing, which has yet to formally submit the software fix to the FAA for approval, did not immediately comment Tuesday on the new review. Some in Congress have urged the FAA to conduct an independent review into the anti-stall system at the center of investigations into two deadly plane crashes before allowing the planes to resume flying. The board known as TAB will assess Boeings proposed fix to the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), the FAA said. The TAB is charged with evaluating Boeing and FAA efforts related to Boeings software update and its integration into the 737 MAX flight control system. The TAB will identify issues where further investigation is required prior to FAA approval of the design change, the FAA said. The worlds largest planemaker, facing its worst crisis in years and the worldwide grounding of its top-selling jetliner, has said its software upgrade and associated pilot training will add layers of protection to prevent erroneous data from triggering MCAS. The system activated in the Ethiopian Airlines crash in March and also during a separate Lion Air crash in Indonesia in October. There are a number of other reviews ongoing, including a blue-ribbon committee appointed by Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao looking at the FAAs aircraft certification process. Federal prosecutors, the Transportation Departments inspector general and lawmakers are investigating the FAAs certification of the 737 MAX 8 aircraft. A separate joint review by 10 governmental air regulators started last week and is expected to last about 90 days, but the FAA has said that a decision on ungrounding the plane is not contingent on that review being completed. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Huawei is under intense scrutiny in the West over its relationship with the Chinese government and US-led allegations that its equipment could be used for spying. (Photo: AP) A Huawei Canada executive said on Tuesday he had left his post after less than a year at the company, the second recent high-profile departure from the Chinese telecommunications equipment maker at the heart of a major dispute between Ottawa and Beijing. The executive, Jake Enwright, said in a brief phone interview that he had quit his job as director of corporate affairs, which he took up early this year. Enwright joined the Canadian arm of Huawei Technologies Co in June 2018 as a spokesman. Scott Bradley announced in late January that he was leaving as senior vice president of corporate affairs, after more than seven years with the firm. Bradley held a more senior position than Enwright. Huawei is under intense scrutiny in the West over its relationship with the Chinese government and US-led allegations that its equipment could be used for spying. Relations between Ottawa and Beijing turned icy last December when Canadian police detained Meng Wanzhou, Huaweis chief financial officer, on a US warrant. She is due to make her next court appearance in Vancouver on Wednesday. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. The doctor ran a private clinic at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and had married Christie in 1997. She filed for divorce in 2016. (Photo: MountElizabeth.com) Singapore: The ex-wife of an Indian-origin neurologist in Singapore has been granted Singapore dollars 25 million in assets, child support and spousal support by a British Columbia court, in one of the biggest divorce payouts abroad. Gobinathan Devathasan, 69, whose behaviour was described as "reprehensible" during the litigation, was ordered on April 29 to pay his ex-wife Christie Devathasan Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in spousal support, with another Canadian dollars 612,084 for child support. During the course of the litigation, Mr Devathasan had handled funds in his Singapore bank account despite an asset freezing order, failed to disclose properties, deliberately embarrassed his daughter and suggested that a judge had "spread her legs wide" to the claimant's counsel, the court was told. The doctor ran a private clinic at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and had married Christie in 1997. She filed for divorce in 2016, Channel News Asia reported. The couple was described in the court judgment as being "uncommonly wealthy", and had owned expensive cars, jewellery, artwork and homes, with investment properties in Canada, the US, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. Christie divorced her first husband in 1996, while Mr Devathasan divorced his first wife, with whom he had two children with, in 1997. Shortly after, the couple got married in Singapore in August 1997. The couple's relationship deteriorated in 2015 and early 2016, according to the court papers. The divorce proceedings commenced in July 2016. Christie obtained an asset freezing order and a protection order, and these orders were served to Mr Devathasan in August 2016. The doctor claimed that they were not binding as he was in Singapore and took steps to deal with his assets. Mr Devathasan's past conduct was also taken into account in deciding ongoing and future child support. He has to pay Canadian dollars 33,084 for past child support and a lump sum of Canadian dollars 579,000 for child support for the period through to June 2022. "For a long time he was utterly unwilling to acknowledge or fulfill his parental and spousal responsibilities or acknowledge this court''s role in adjudicating those responsibilities," Justice Gomery said in his judgment. In an affidavit sworn on May 22, 2017, he stated: "I will not pay a dollar for alimony now or till death or whatever any one decrees, no matter what". The judge ordered Mr Devathasan to pay his ex-wife Canadian dollars 2,351,000 in connection with the allocation of family property and debt. He will also have to pay a total of Canadian dollars 612,084 in child support, and Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in total for spousal support. The Canadian dollars 16.4 million in assets granted to Christie Devasthan include a house in West Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 6.2 million, an apartment in Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 2.35 million and an apartment in Florida worth Canadian dollars 2.48 million. The doctor was granted Canadian dollars 21.4 million after the proceedings. The judge described Mr Devathasan as a "hardworking man all his life", adding that the doctor worked Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings throughout his career in private practices. "He has loyal patients," the judge was quoted as saying in the report. A man mourns the death of his family member outside a hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, on Wednesday. AP Lahore: A suicide blast at one of Pakistans oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least 10 people and wounded 24 in the eastern city of Lahore on Wednesday, police said, in an attack claimed by the Pakistani Taliban. The blast which a faction of the militant group claimed by email occurred near the entrance gate for female visitors to the 11th-century Data Darbar shrine, one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia, as the country marks the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. Husks of vehicles littered the pavement near the shrine as first responders rushed to the scene while armed security forces fanned out in the area. The emergency room at the Mayo Hospital in Lahore was crowded with the wounded, and people searching for loved ones. Among them was Azra Bibi, whose son Muhammad Shahid cares for visitors shoes which must be removed before entering. He has been missing since the blast, she said. They are not Muslims, she said, referring to the attackers. They even targeted worshippers. The shrine has long been home to colourful Sufi festivals and a prime destination for the country's myriad Muslim sects, making it a soft target for militant attacks. It has been targeted previously, in a 2010 suicide attack which killed more than 40 people. Since then the area has been increasingly hemmed in by heavy security, with visitors forced to pass through several layers of screening before they can enter the complex. Sufi worshippers have frequently been the target of bloody attacks in Pakistan. Iran did not announce any measures on Wednesday which would appear to impede the IAEA's inspection regime Tehran: Iran said on Wednesday it had stopped respecting limits on its nuclear activities agreed under a 2015 deal with major powers until they find a way to bypass renewed US sanctions. The well trailed announcement came as Washington stepped up its rhetoric against Tehran, accusing it of planning imminent attacks and deploying an aircraft carrier strike group with several nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the region. Iran said it was responding to sweeping unilateral sanctions that Washington has reimposed since it quit the agreement one year ago, which have dealt a severe blow to the Iranian economy. It said it would stop implementing some of the restrictions it had agreed with immediate effect. Tehran said it would abandon more if the remaining parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- failed to start delivering on their commitments to sanctions relief within 60 days. President Hassan Rouhani underlined that the ultimatum was intended to rescue the nuclear deal from his US counterpart Donald Trump who has repeatedly called for it to be scrapped since he pulled out on May 8, 2018. We felt the (deal) needed surgery and that the year-long sedatives have not delivered any result. This surgery is meant to save the (deal) not destroy it, Rouhani said at a cabinet meeting broadcast live on state television. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who is on an official visit to Moscow, stressed Irans actions were not in breach of the nuclear deal, which UN inspectors have repeatedly certified its compliance with. We are not operating outside of the JCPOA (nuclear deal) but are in fact working in its framework, Zarif said. Under the deal agreed by Barack Obama, the parties to the agreement were supposed to lift sanctions on Iran in return for it reining in its activities to ease fears it was seeking the capability to produce an atomic bomb. But the promised relief has failed to materialise as European and Asian banks and oil companies moved swiftly to abide by the renewed US sanctions for fear of commercial repercussions. The meeting came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of planning "imminent" attacks on a hastily organised visit to Iraq. (Photo:AP) Tehran: Iran has decided to suspend some of its commitments under a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with major powers abandoned by Washington last year, the foreign ministry announced on Wednesday. "The decision of the high security council to 'stop acting on some of the Islamic Republic of Iran's commitments under the JCPOA (nuclear deal)' was communicated to the heads of state of the countries" still party to the deal -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia, the ministry said. It said deputy Deputy Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had handed the decision to the ambassadors of the five countries in a meeting on Wednesday. The meeting came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo accused Iran of planning "imminent" attacks on a hastily organised visit to neighbouring Iraq on Tuesday. Washington has also deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and several massive, nuclear-capable B-52 bombers to the Middle East as national security adviser John Bolton warned Washington would respond with "unrelenting force" to any attack by Tehran. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif dismissed the US military deployments and stressed that Iran's actions were not in breach of the nuclear deal it signed with major powers. "The Islamic republic has seen it suitable to stop acting on some of its commitments and measures it voluntarily undertook" under the nuclear deal, Zarif told state television from Moscow where he is on an official visit. Emphasising that "Iran will not withdraw" from the deal, Zarif said "this right has been set for Iran in the JCPOA; we are not operating outside of the JCPOA but are in fact working in its framework." He said the measures were in line with Sections 26 and 36 of the deal, which allow Iran to cease some or all of its commitments if the United States or other parties fail to adhere to the agreement, including by reimposing sanctions. The United States reimposed crippling unilateral sanctions last year after withrawing from the agreement, known formally as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May. Under the deal, Iran agreed to rein in its nuclear activities in return for an easing of sanctions. The top US diplomat's unannounced visit marked an effort to stand up Washington's ties with Baghdad as it pushes ahead with its 'maximum pressure' against Tehran. (Photo:AP) Baghdad: Iraq has promised to guarantee the safety of US interests from Iran, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday as he paid a surprise trip to Baghdad where he accused Tehran of planning "imminent" attacks. The top US diplomat's unannounced visit marked an effort to stand up Washington's ties with Baghdad as it pushes ahead with its "maximum pressure" against Tehran -- a US arch-rival, but an ally of Iraq. Pompeo abruptly cancelled talks in Germany and made a lengthy detour from a European tour to spend four hours in Iraq, where he met both President Barham Saleh and Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi. "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country," Pompeo told reporters after the meetings. "They both provided assurances that they understood that was their responsibility," he said. Pompeo said he made the trip because Iranian forces are "escalating their activity" and said the threat of attacks were "very specific". "These were attacks that were imminent," Pompeo said. He declined to go into further detail on the alleged plot, which has been met with scepticism in numerous quarters, with leading Democratic lawmakers fearing that President Donald Trump's administration is seeking to spark a war with Iran. In the latest US move, the Pentagon said it was sending several massive, nuclear-capable B-52s to the region. The deployment was in response to "recent and clear indications that Iranian and Iranian proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack US forces," the Pentagon said. On Sunday, Washington announced it was dispatching an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East as national security advisor John Bolton warned Iran that Washington would respond with "unrelenting force" to any attack by Tehran, including by its regional allies. Iraq's majority Shiite population enjoys religious kinship with Iran, which played a significant role in helping Baghdad to fight the Islamic State extremist movement. President Hassan Rouhani paid an official visit to Iraq in March, where he denounced pressure from the "aggressor" United States, which deposed Iran's arch-enemy Saddam Hussein in a 2003 invasion. Pompeo, whose trip to Iraq is his second this year, said he spoke at length about Iran's influence with Shiite militias. "We've urged the Iraqi government for its own security to get all of those forces under Iraqi central control," Pompeo said. "In each of those meetings, those two leaders promised that that was their objective, too, they were moving towards that goal," he said. In Iraq, a debate has been raging in recent months over the fate of some 5,200 US troops stationed across the country. Their presence angers the Hashed al-Shaabi, a paramilitary force that is dominated by pro-Iran factions which played a key role alongside government forces in the fight against IS. In a press conference a few hours before Pompeo's arrival, Abdel Mahdi said Iraq would not accept any attack on foreign troops on its land. "Iraq really is taking the responsibility to avoid any attack on any of our friends here, coalition forces or any of our friends here," he told reporters. "This is an obligation that Iraq would honour, (and) not accept any attack on anyone -- whether Iraqi, foreigner, whether it's an embassy or a company or a military mission," he said. The Trump administration has imposed sweeping sanctions on Iran, including trying to stop all exports of its oil, although it has issued a waiver for energy-starved Iraq to keep buying power from its neighbour. Iranian media have said that Rouhani will announce retaliatory measures on Wednesday to mark the anniversary of Trump's pullout from a 2015 nuclear accord under which Tehran drastically scaled back its sensitive work. With the imposition of US sanctions, Iran has grown increasingly frustrated that it has not seen the fruits of the agreement, with which UN inspectors say it is complying. Pompeo had been travelling from Finland, where he had attended a meeting of the Arctic Council, to Germany, where he was due to meet both Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas later Tuesday. Germany has wide disagreements with the Trump administration and along with other European nations still supports the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated under former US president Barack Obama. German parliamentary foreign affairs committee chair Norbert Roettgen said that "even if the reasons for the rejection are unavoidable, it unfortunately fits in with the current climate in the relationship between the two governments". But Pompeo said that Maas was "most gracious" in a telephone call in which he told him he would scrap the visit. Pompeo, who returns to Europe for talks Wednesday in London, said he would try to reschedule his trip "as soon as we possibly could". Joon said in a statement the plane, operating as flight number AF218, landed out of precaution over a malfunctioning ventilation circuit. Tehran: A plane flown by a subsidiary of Air France heading from Paris to Mumbai made an emergency landing in central Iran. A plane flown by a subsidiary of Air France heading from Paris to Mumbai made an emergency landing in central Iran. The Airbus A340 flown by the low-cost carrier Joon landed in the city of Isfahan on Wednesday. Joon said in a statement the plane, operating as flight number AF218, landed out of precaution over a malfunctioning ventilation circuit. Irans state-run IRNA news agency said local authorities are providing services to passengers, all of whom were in good health. It wasnt immediately clear when the flight would take off. The plane had disappeared from radars half-way to its destination over Iran after issuing a distress signal, according to data from Flightradar24. Mansoor Glass, director general of the Isfahan Governors Crisis Management Depart-ment, told the news agency IRNA that all passengers on board were in good health and were being treated in hospital. The Iranian media outlet hasnt specified what was behind the emergency landing. AF218 plane has disappeared from radars after starting to descend due to an unknown reason near the city of Isfahan in central Iran, Flightradar24 reported. Live flight not found. Flight AF218 is currently not tracked by Flightradar24. Its either out of coverage or has already landed, the flight tracking website said. The plane that left Paris at 11:21am was scheduled to arrive in Mumbai at midnight. Anurag Kotoky IndiGo is in talks with Airbus SE for another large plane order in a sign Asias biggest budget carrier has no intention of letting up on a blistering pace of expansion. The Indian airline, which adds an aircraft to its fleet every week, is in discussions to buy a longer-range version of the European planemakers newest narrow-body jet, according to Chief Executive Officer Ronojoy Dutta. Existing orders will see IndiGo through the next two years, Dutta said in an interview with Bloomberg News Editor-in-Chief John Micklethwait. After that, the carrier is considering adding new planes including Airbuss long-distance A321neo LR and the yet-to-be-released A321 XLR, he said. When we order, well order in bulk for sure, Dutta said in New Delhi in his first interview since becoming CEO of the airline in January. I cant give you a tentative number, but it will be large. We need longer range. Buying Big Though Dutta didnt specify the size of IndiGos next purchase, its likely to be a multi-billion-dollar order based on the companys history. Its smallest order so far was for 100 A320 jets in 2005 worth $6 billion at list prices at the time. Given that the most basic variant of the A320neo family today carry sticker prices of more than $100 million each, a large order could exceed $10 billion. Operated by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd., IndiGo is one of the few Indian carriers with enough cash to aggressively expand, and its been mapping out a way to build a long-haul, low-cost business to take passengers from places like New Delhi to London. The carrier has managed to consistently make money even as domestic rivals struggle under a fierce fares war and the worlds priciest jet fuel -- partly because it commits to large plane orders to cap costs. Founded in 2005 by former US Airways CEO Rakesh Gangwal and former travel agent Rahul Bhatia, IndiGo has quickly outpaced all its rivals to grab almost half of the local market, making both founders billionaires. At more than $8.6 billion, the market value of Indigos parent is almost double Air France-KLMs and ahead of Singapore Airlines Ltd., Dutta isnt satisfied. There are a lot of airlines ahead of us, he said. We would like to be one of the biggest, largest, profitable airlines in the world. Dutta was previously president of United Airlines, where he worked for nearly 20 years. A Harvard graduate, Dutta was also president of Indian budget carrier Air Sahara for two years before it was sold to Jet Airways. IndiGo shares rose as much as 1.7 percent, before paring all gains to trade 0.2 percent down at 1,558 rupees at 10:48 a.m. on Tuesday in Mumbai. They have gained about 33 percent in the past 12 months. Top Customer IndiGo has specialized in buying in bulk, ordering 430 jets in the A320neo family on top of an initial contract for 100 older A320 models. Thats made IndiGo one of the biggest buyers of Airbuss best-selling plane. Such large-scale orders help airlines negotiate discounts and better maintenance terms. One of the things thats key to our success is keeping the fleet cost down, and fleet cost is only down when you order in bulk, Dutta said. While IndiGo has so far confined past orders to Airbus, it hasnt ruled out buying Boeing Co. jets in the future, according to Dutta. And the order being discussed with Airbus hasnt been finalized. IndiGo is also playing rivals off each other when it comes to engines. Its in talks with CFM International, a joint venture between General Electric Co. and Frances Safran SA, in addition to current supplier Pratt & Whitney for a new turbine order, according to the CEO. IndiGo opted for Pratt & Whitney-powered engines for the first 150 of its A320neos jets, and like other carriers has faced issues including a faulty seal that triggered a three-month delivery halt. The problems are easing, and Pratt has stepped up spare engine supplies to keep planes flying, he said. We are negotiating right now for an engine order, Dutta said. We are negotiating with everybody. We dont have a fixed agenda. Well go this way or that way, whatever makes sense. As the killings of political activists in Kashmir have raised questions on the decision of the governor led administrations decision to withdraw security of hundreds of political workers, top security brass has decided to go for extensive review of the decision. Sources said the decision to conduct a thorough security review was taken after the strong protest lodged by the senior BJP leader Ashok Koul, who on Tuesday, surrendered his security cover and escort vehicle before the media. He later boarded an auto to protest the withdrawal of security to BJP leaders. After the protest by the BJP, a series of meetings were held in Srinagar to work out the security cover for the politicians in need. It was decided only those political workers and leaders will be provided the protection and bullet proof escort vehicles, who have genuine threats. There will be a proper security audit conducted in the coming days, they said. Last week unidentified militants killed BJP leader Gul Mohammad Mir in south Kashmirs Anantnag district, raising serious questions of deliberate security lapses by his family as well as politicians in the state. Mir was the fourth BJP worker to be killed in south Kashmir over the past 18 months. The state BJP said that the security provided to around 40 other BJP workers had also been withdrawn through a decision taken earlier this year by the governor administration. Following Mirs killing, a high-level committee headed by chief secretary BVR Subramaniam was constituted to work out the modalities and review the cases of each individual who has requested for the security cover and bullet proof vehicles. A senior police officer said they cant give provide security to each and everybody who is in politics. We will conduct a proper security audit and asses the threat perception of politicians and accordingly work out a protection plan, he said, wishing anonymity. Sources revealed that security wing of police department has received hundreds of applications from the politicians of various political parties seeking security cover and bullet proof escort vehicles. Many have demanded replacement of old escort vehicles with the new bullet proof vehicles the police department has recently procured, they said. The United States has sought to allay India's concerns over its negotiations with the Taliban in Afghanistan, arguing that the peace process would improve the prospects of peace and security in the region. New Delhi, however, remained sceptical and reiterated to the Donald Trump administration that hasty withdrawal of the United States' soldiers from Afghanistan might allow the Taliban to regain control of the war-ravaged country and bring back the situation that had existed before September 2001. Zalmay Khalilzad, US Special Representative for Afghan Reconciliation, was on a tour to New Delhi on Monday and Tuesday. Khalilzad, the lead US interlocutor for talks with the Taliban in Afghanistan, had a series of meetings with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. He also met BJP general secretary Ram Madhav before concluding his two-day visit. I appreciate Indias expression of support for our efforts; it strengthens an emerging international consensus. We agreed on important benefits peace will bring: addressing the threat of terrorist use of Afghanistan; increased regional connectivity & (and) trade, Khalilzad posted on Twitter on Tuesday. Trump had on January 2 this year mocked at India's role in Afghanistan, which had been limited to funding development projects in the conflict-ravaged country without sending troops to join the war against the Taliban. New Delhi had dismissed the jibe, underlining that its $3 billion development assistance had indeed transformed lives of people in the war-ravaged country. New Delhi has been concerned as the peace process is likely to lead to the integration of the Taliban into the governance structure in Afghanistan. What India has been worried about is the possibility of the Taliban re-imposing strict Sharia Law in Afghanistan and facilitating the terror outfits based in Pakistan and responsible for many attacks in India expanding footprints and operations across South Africa. A spokesperson of the US embassy in New Delhi said that Khalilzad discussed with Sushma, Gokhale and Doval many important benefits that would come with peace in Afghanistan preventing international terrorists from using the country as a platform for attacks, improved prospects for regional peace and security and increased regional connectivity and trade. Khalilzad visited New Delhi at a time when the new round of US-Taliban talks at Doha in Qatar got stuck due to differences on the issue of the pace of withdrawal of the foreign military troops from Afghanistan. What has also made the process difficult is the Taliban's reluctance to disarm its militants and agree to a ceasefire. Sushma conveyed to Khalilzad that while New Delhi was not opposed to the peace process in Doha, it was of the view that excessive concession to the Taliban could squander away the gains made in fighting the menace of religious fanaticism and terrorism in Afghanistan, sources told the DH. Raveesh Kumar, the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, said that Sushma and Khalilzad discussed the role of all regional stakeholders in bringing peace and development in Afghanistan. India will work with key partners in days ahead, he added. UPPER DARBY- Township police apprehended a probation violator from New Jersey and arrested ten people for drunk driving and/or drug offenses during a DUI checkpoint over the weekend. The Upper Darby Police Department announced Tuesday the results of its latest checkpoint operation the night of May 3 on the 6200 block of Baltimore Avenue near Yeadon Borough. Field-sobriety tests were administered to seven individuals; five of them were unable to pass and were taken into custody for driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. Three of the charged drivers and five others also face charges for various drug offenses. A summary of the enforcement actions are as follows: Richard Leach, 65, of the 6000 block of Allman Street in Philadelphia, was charged with DUI and possessing a controlled substance as well as drug paraphernalia. His bail was $10,000 unsecured. Tiffany Tillman, 24, of the 5500 block of Litchfield Street in Philadelphia, was charged with possessing a controlled substance, possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Her bail was $10,000 unsecured. Jamal Gardiner, 24, of the 5000 block of Funston Street in Philadelphia, was charged with DUI, possessing a controlled substance, possessing marijuana & drug paraphernalia. His bail was set at 10 percent of $30,000 and he was transferred to George W. Hill Correctional Facility in Concord. Melvin Smiley, 61, of the 1900 block of Ellsworth Street in Philadelphia, was charged with DUI. His bail was $18,000 unsecured. Kristina Gold, 31, of the 1200 block of South Saint Bernard Street in Philadelphia, was charged with DUI, possessing a controlled substance, felony possession with the intent to deliver, as well as drug paraphernalia. Her bail was $10,000 unsecured. Turhan Campbell, 28, of the 200 block of Penn Boulevard in East Lansdowne, was charged with possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia. His bail was $10,000 unsecured. Daquan Dicker, 22, of the unit block of West Baltimore Avenue in Lansdowne, was charged with possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia. His bail was $10,000 unsecured. Nadira Sanders, 21, of the 900 block of Poplar Avenue in Glenolden, was charged with possessing a controlled substance and possessing marijuana. Her bail was $10,000 unsecured. Wali Numan, 41, of the 5800 block of Master Street in Philadelphia, was charged with possessing marijuana & drug paraphernalia. His bail was $15,000 unsecured. Clevern Scott, 42, of the 900 block of Duncan Avenue in Yeadon, was charged with DUI. He was released to a sober adult pending a criminal summons. Police also nabbed Jamil Smith, of Yeadon, who had a warrant out for probation violation for failure to appear for a January court date to answer to drug charges, according to Upper Darby Police Capt. Tom Johnson. Police discovered the warrant when the vehicle he was a passenger in was pulled over for equipment violations. Johnson said no criminal charges were filed for Smith from the checkpoint stop, but Gloucester County Sheriffs office has a detainer on him for extradition. Numerous traffic citations were filed for vehicles out of inspection and other related offenses such as children left unrestrained in motor vehicles. Adult seatbelt violations and other minor motor vehicle violations were addressed with verbal warnings. More than 1,000 vehicles went through the checkpoint from 10:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. and they had brief contact by specially trained officers from a number of local law enforcement agencies who were part of the operation. That block of Baltimore Avenue was targeted, based on recent collision and DUI arrest data that identified the Baltimore Avenue corridor as a particularly dangerous area for drivers and pedestrians, according to a press release. The results from this checkpoint were consistent with the growing national problem of drugged driving. Marijuana is the most common drug involved but even properly prescribed medications have the ability to cause impairment during normal use. The department did offer some good news following Fridays checkpoint. With each successive checkpoint operation, officers on the checkpoint line have noticed the ever-increasing use of hired vehicles to transport impaired drivers home, read a portion of the press release. The Task Force would encourage others to follow this example. There were 37 sworn officers and 38 civilian staff, firefighters and volunteers actively working Fridays operation. All cases will be forwarded to Upper Darby Magisterial District Judge Christopher Mattox. A Pennsylvania state lawmaker, Danielle Friel Otten, recently published a tweet comparing pipeline workers in her district to members of the Nazi Party, the political organization that Adolph Hitler used to transform Germany into a brutal dictatorship during the 1930s and 1940s. As many others have pointed out, the Nazis espoused a racist ideology that led to the deaths of millions of Jews and other minorities in the Holocaust. The Nazis also pursued an expansionist military policy that led to the outbreak of World War II, the deadliest armed conflict in history. Although Representative Otten later apologized for her remarks, and acknowledged that her words were insensitive, she did not point out an important fact that the pipeline industry actually helped America defeat the Nazis. In January 1942, shortly after the United States entered World War II, the German navy began targeting merchant vessels along the Eastern seaboard. The United States was the worlds largest crude oil producer at the time, and most of the nations crude oil was shipped by vessel from production areas in the Gulf Coast to refineries in the Northeast. The German naval campaign enjoyed great success in the first few months, sinking dozens of oil tankers and threatening Americas ability to provide fuel for the Allied war effort. At the urging of the federal government, the pipeline industry met in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in March 1942 to develop a new national strategy for transporting petroleum for the duration of the war. A key element of that strategy, dubbed the Tulsa Plan, was to build the most ambitious infrastructure project of its day a pipeline that would run from Texas to New York. The longest pipeline ever built at that point, the system would span more than 1,000 miles and include two largely parallel segments. The first, a 24-inch diameter pipeline capable of moving more than 300,000 barrels of crude oil per day, was called the Big Inch. The second, a 20-inch pipeline capable of transporting more than 200,000 barrels of refined products, was known as the Little Inch. In what can only be described as a modern engineering marvel, pipeline workers built the Big Inch line in less than a year, with the first successful shipment of crude oil reaching Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, in August 1943. Construction of the Little Inch pipeline finished shortly thereafter. Because of the pipeline industrys remarkable achievement, the American, British and Canadian soldiers that landed on the beaches of Normandy, France, in June 1944 during the D-Day invasion had access to a secure source of fuel. And while the outcome of World War II was ultimately decided on battlefields in Africa, Europe and Asia, at least one German General, Karl Rudolf Gerd von Rudstedt, is said to have pointed to oil as a decisive factor in his countrys defeat. The Allies had the East Texas Oil Field and Big and Little Inch pipelines. The Nazis didnt. Rep. Friel Otten just won her first campaign for political office and deserves credit for making the sacrifices that come with being a public servant. She also apologized for her remarks, which is always a good place to start when it comes to Nazi comparisons. But she might want to remember a little bit of history the next time she passes a pipeline worker in her district. Someone else in that industry helped her country beat the Nazis not too long ago by building a pipeline that ran through Chester County, Pennsylvania. SPRINGVILLE J. Scott Finlayson, the longest serving chief of police in the citys history, announced he will step down at the end of the month. Finlayson, whose career has spanned 40 years, has led the Public Safety Department for more than 23 years. During his tenure, he was elected to the board of directors of the Utah Chiefs of Police Association and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He is also a life member of both organizations. Finlayson, and his wife, Gwen, plan to remain in Springville volunteering in the community and their church. They also look forward to spending more time with their children and 21 grandchildren. Editor's note: This commentary by Brigham Young University professors Michael Goodman and Justin Dyer is part of an ongoing Deseret News opinion series exploring ideas and issues at the intersection of faith and thought. In the wake of The Church of Jesus Christs recent policy change related to LGBT families and baptisms, one commentator in a national publication rightly acknowledged that its impossible to know the cause of most suicides, but nonetheless inferred a connection between the policies of the LDS Church and the high rate of suicide among LGBTQ teens in Utah. Numerous national and regional media outlets, including CNN, ABC, Fox, NBC and The Atlantic, among others, have inferred some connection between the church and the rate of suicide among LGBTQ teens in Utah. As with most who address Utah suicides, we believe those speaking out on this issue are sincerely trying to help, and, unquestionably, they are correct when they report that many LGBTQ individuals have struggled with the churchs policies or teachings. There are research-based reasons, however, to believe that media narratives regarding LGBTQ teen suicide in Utah are sometimes oversimplified, inaccurate and potentially harmful. To be clear, it is vital that all act in compassionate and informed ways on this and other issues related to LGBTQ individuals. Behind numbers and statistics are human beings. And, theres no doubt that there are deeply troubling trends regarding suicide across the nation. This is a crisis demanding our best efforts. Theres no doubt that there are deeply troubling trends regarding suicide across the nation. This is a crisis demanding our best efforts. With good reason, attention has often focused on LGBTQ youths. In 2017 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 13% of heterosexual adolescents had seriously considered suicide compared to 48% of LGB adolescents. One study even found a heightened suicide risk for same-sex married individuals in the relatively tolerant country of Sweden. We applaud those raising awareness of suicidality among LGBTQ youths and adults. Their work is not just important, its lifesaving. In our efforts to help, however, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reminds us that certain ways we discuss suicide can do more harm than good. They explain: Suicide is the result of many complex factors; therefore media coverage should not report oversimplified explanations such as recent negative life events or acute stressors. Even more specific, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in conjunction with the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation and Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays state that, when individuals and organizations talk about suicide safely and accurately, they can help reduce the likelihood of its occurrence; however, talking about suicide in inaccurate or exaggerated ways can elevate that risk in vulnerable individuals. They recommend avoiding speculating about reasons for a suicide death or using social media or e-blasts to announce news of suicide deaths. The guidelines warn against attributing a suicide death to a single factor (such as bullying or discrimination) or say(ing) that a specific anti-LGBT law or policy will cause suicide. To be clear, talking about suicide is critical to intervention and these groups are not suggesting anti-LGBTQ laws should not be addressed. We are heartened to see, in recent years, Utah expand the legal infrastructure to help address discrimination or hate crimes experienced by LGBTQ individuals. While much has been said about Utah suicide rates, particularly in relation to LGBTQ adolescents and the church, many still wonder: Whats fact and whats speculation? Utahs suicide rate is in fact higher than the national average. However, this is rarely contextualized. Except Alaska, the nine states with the highest suicide rates (including Utah) are within the same geographic area. Interestingly, of the states in this area Utah has the lowest suicide rate for 12-19 year-olds. These states share many characteristics associated with higher suicide rates, including rurality. Between 2011 and 2016, Utah Countys suicide rate was 22% above the national rate. However, the suicide rate of the more rural Carbon County (adjacent to Utah County) was more than 200% above the national rate. In noting this however, as AFSP counsels, we should avoid over generalizations about any area that may normalize suicidal behavior within that area. Utahs increase in youth suicide between 2011 and 2015 is sometimes attributed to LGBTQ youth suicides. And while LGBTQ youth do have higher levels of suicidality (a fact all should acknowledge and work tirelessly to ameliorate) its not clear that Utahs increase was related to LGBTQ youths. The CDC, for instance, attempted to identify the sexual orientation of Utah youths who died by suicide between 2011 and 2015. Of those whose sexual orientation they could identify (which was the minority) 15% were LGBTQ. This percentage is based on partial data since sexual orientation is not consistently recorded with suicide. This finding is somewhat lower than a 40-state study, also based on CDC data, that up to 21% of 12-17 year old suicides were LGBTQ related. Even assuming this higher percentage for Utah, LGBTQ youths would only account for a small portion of the tragic increase in youth suicide from 2011 to 2015. It has been further speculated that The Church of Jesus Christs 2015 policy regarding LGBTQ families and baptism was responsible for a continuing increase in adolescent suicide in Utah. However, as has been noted, Utah youth suicides actually dropped by 20% the year after the policy was announced. In 2017, youth suicides in Utah once again began to increase. But the available data does not support the narrative that in Utah a dramatic increase in LGBTQ youth suicides followed the churchs 2015 policy. Research regarding Utah youth suicidality and The Church of Jesus Christ is instructive. Though counterintuitive to some, research consistently finds that religion in general, and the church in particular, are typically protective against suicidality. Again, it would be an oversimplification to say religion is a protective factor in every case. Many have negative experiences with religion. But discussions about The Church of Jesus Christ and youth suicide should at least include what appears to be the most common research finding, that membership in the church is associated with lower suicide rates. The CDCs study of Utah found Latter-day Saint youths actually had a lower suicide risk. Regarding LGBTQ youths, the Family Foundations of Youth Development study found 44% of Latter-day Saint LGBTQ youths had seriously considered suicide compared to 47% of LGBTQ youths from other religions and 77% of Atheist/Agnostic LGBTQ youths (the national rate for LGB youth is 47.7%). There are a few studies pointing to difficulties of some LGBTQ members of the church. These studies are typically not with youths, do not compare Latter-day Saints to others and use convenience rather than random samples. The studies raise areas of concern that deserve attention. Some LGBTQ youths seriously struggle with their faith experiences. Others derive protection from their faith experiences and communities. Both are authentic lived realities. Both should be heard and understood. However, current data call into question the narrative that church policies or teachings are somehow a driving force behind the Utah suicide crisis. Combined with best practice guidelines, asserting such a connection is in fact potentially harmful. It is clear that many have felt deeply wounded by their church experience, and certainly some youths connect suicide or suicide attempts to this anguish. Some LGBTQ youths seriously struggle with their faith experiences. Others derive protection from their faith experiences and communities. Both are authentic lived realities. Both should be heard and understood. Along with this, as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention points out, suicide deaths are almost always the result of multiple overlapping causes, including mental health issues that might not have been recognized or treated. They underscore that linking suicide directly to external factors risks normalizing suicide by suggesting that it is a natural reaction to such experiences. The Utah Suicide Prevention Coalition further notes that "together we can make a difference to prevent suicide, provide caring, evidenced based interventions, and foster environments that promote acceptance, healing and recovery. With a problem as complex as suicide, no one solution will be enough. Our health, behavioral health systems, schools and communities need to collectively work together implementing the best practices and data available to achieve our goals. All of us must acknowledge the difficulties of others and work to help them feel welcome and loved. Those refusing to acknowledge LGBTQ youths as a vulnerable group ignore the evidence and perpetuate inaction. At the same time, those who primarily attribute heightened Utah suicide rates to LGBTQ youths and the church are unintentionally making it harder to address this pressing problem that will require us all to come together. If you or someone you know needs help, there are many resources: Call: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the NationalSuicide Prevention Lifeline Text: HOME to 741-741 for free, 24-hour support from the Crisis Text Line Download the SafeUT app (it will connect a person directly with a crisis line) The Family Acceptance Project: https://familyproject.sfsu.edu/ Suicide Prevention Resource Center: www.sprc.org National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org Parent Resource Program: www.jasonfoundation.com/community/ Resources on suicide from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: https://www.lds.org/get-help/suicide Resources for LGBT Latter-day Saints: https://mormonandgay.lds.org/ Michael Goodman is a professor of religion at Brigham Young University with a Ph.D in marriage, family and human development. W. Justin Dyer is a professor of religion at Brigham Young University who holds a Ph.D. in human and community development. They are researchers on the Family Foundations of Youth Development study. Their views are their own. SALT LAKE CITY At long last, the members of a task force that might redo Utahs tax system have been publicly announced. I say might because successfully changing tax law wont be easy. Ten state lawmakers, including two Democrats, plus four nonvoting tax experts who supposedly will guide the discussions with a dry-eyed sense of reality, will try to craft a better tax structure within the bounds of what is politically possible. But will they be up to the challenge of answering this essential question: Why is reform necessary in the first place? Not a lot of Utahns spend their days thinking about tax reform, but among those who do, this is becoming a growing question. Some business owners and others are challenging the very notion that the state has a sales tax problem. Ive met with several of these people mostly professionals who say if they need to begin collecting sales taxes for their services, it might drive them out of state. They point to figures available from the State Tax Commission, showing how sales tax revenues are up over the past several years. In fiscal year 2017-18, the state collected $220.2 million more than the previous year, for a total of about $2.7 billion. During the first nine months of the current fiscal year, collections were up by another $104 million. And, as they point out, the state has yet to see what the impact will be from a recent Supreme Court decision allowing states to begin taxing online sales. This surely will bring in more money that has been lost through shifting consumer spending patterns. And thats not to mention the current $1.1 billion state surplus lawmakers faced during their last session. So, with money like this rolling in, where is the crisis? The answer seems to be that, while sales tax revenues are growing, income tax revenues bring in more nearly $4 billion last year, which represented an increase of $389.5 million. In Utah, all income taxes must go toward education. Sales taxes pay for most of everything else. The problem, then, may be an allocation, not a collection, imbalance. But when the conversation turns in that direction, things get politically difficult in a hurry. Would any lawmaker, let alone a majority of them, have the guts to propose changing the Utah Constitution so that income taxes could be used for something other than education? Even if they promise to continue giving schools what they need, such a thing might look like a step back from that commitment. But if they wont do that, would they have the guts to tackle the many sales tax exemptions they have granted businesses through the years? The State Tax Commission last year said 69 of these add up to $650 million per year, or about one-fifth of potential sales tax collections. These have been granted to businesses such as Delta Airlines, major employers who have been given breaks because of their importance to the local economy. As a Utah Foundation report said last year, these exemptions come with good arguments, but exemptions can create economic distortions and unfairly benefit specific industries over others. Would they undo the many earmarks, such as for roads and transportation, that eat away at the states general fund? That Utah Foundation report laid out the argument for why Utah may have a sales tax problem. Over the past 45 years, it said, only one other state has seen sales tax collections decline more in relation to how much people are buying. The state collects about as much per capita in sales taxes today as it did in 1978, meaning, as costs climb, the state is losing purchasing power. The report argues people are spending more on services, especially medical services, than in the past. To which some say, so what? Who says sales tax collections have to equal income tax collections? Why not impose a statewide residential property tax, or a gross receipts tax or perhaps tack a filing fee on income tax returns? And while were at it, the state constitution says not only income taxes, but all taxes on intangible property must be used for education. Some say a tax on services might be interpreted as a tax on intangible property. All of this can get complicated mighty fast, which means plain-speaking communication and public involvement will be essential as well as listening to those who might be affected. Those things were sorely missing from attempts to do this during the last legislative session. That must not be the case going forward. SALT LAKE CITY A man who caused "permanent disfigurement" to his sister by beating her with a cord, according to prosecutors, was charged Tuesday. Yassine Adam Ibrahim, 22, of Salt Lake City, was charged in 3rd District Court with child abuse, a second-degree felony. On March 26, a 16-year-old girl was watching TV on a couch when her brother, Ibrahim, "came in and started hitting her with a long cord," according to charging documents, "The cord was folded twice in a loop like a jump rope." The girl tried to get away, but Ibrahim followed while hitting her arms, legs and back, the charges state. "(The girl) has marks all over her body and some of them bled," according to the charges. A doctor determined the girl "would suffer permanent disfigurement" from the injuries, the charges state. A $100,000 warrant was issued for Ibrahim's arrest. SALT LAKE CITY A group of Republican senators, including Utah Sen. Mike Lee, met with President Donald Trump on Tuesday to talk about immigration policy. "Our southern border is in crisis. Not even the most liberal papers on the East Coast are denying that anymore," Lee said in a statement after the White House meeting that included administration officials and a dozen senators. Lee said loopholes that cartels and their smugglers are using to take advantage of people and the "desperate" migrants they are trafficking need to be fixed. The proposals discussed at the meeting, he said, not only begin to address the current crisis, but make much-needed reforms to the rest of an outdated immigration system. Lee said he looks forward to the principles outlined in the meeting to become "solid" legislation in the coming weeks. A Trump spokesman said the president and the senators discussed a potential plan that would secure the border, protect and raise wages for American workers and move toward a merit-based immigration system. "President Trump wants a commonsense, lawful and safe immigration system that Americans, and those wanting to become Americans, have deserved for a long time," according to Hogan Gidley, deputy White House press secretary. Lee supports Trump's push to extend the wall on the U.S. border with Mexico, though he voted against the president's national emergency declaration because he sees it as Congress ceding its power to the president. Last fall, he went to Mexico and Guatemala as a large migrant caravan was making its way north. Lee touted a plan for the U.S. to enter an agreement with Mexico that would require Central American migrants to first seek asylum there before attempting to cross the border. Under a safe third-country agreement, asylum seekers would have to ask for protection in whichever of the two countries they enter first. BEIJING Efforts to end a U.S.-China trade war are in shambles after the United States accused China of reneging on its commitments and prepared to raise import taxes on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods. A Chinese delegation is headed to Washington to salvage talks aimed at resolving a dispute over China's aggressive push to challenge American technological dominance. Negotiations are set to resume Thursday. The setback in negotiations caught financial markets by surprise, and the U.S. stocks fell Tuesday for the second straight day. For weeks, Trump administration officials had suggested that negotiators were making steady progress. China confirmed Tuesday its economy czar, Vice Premier Liu He, will lead China's delegation, ending speculation that he'd skip the talks or that the Chinese team would back out altogether. The announcement suggests President Xi Jinping's government is putting its desire to end a conflict that has battered Chinese exporters ahead of the political need to look tough in the face of U.S. pressure. The decision to have Liu take part in talks might keep alive hopes the two biggest global economies could make peace as early as this week. The Trump administration is pressing Beijing to roll back plans for government-led development of Chinese global competitors in robotics, electric cars and other technologies. Washington, Europe, Japan and other trading partners say those violate China's market-opening commitments and are based in part on stolen technology. Trump's announcement Sunday that he would increase tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports to 25% from 10% on Friday caused global stock markets to plunge. Markets steadied after a Chinese spokesman said Monday that envoys still were preparing to go to the United States, though there was no word then whether Liu would take part. On Tuesday, China's main stock market index rose 0.7% and most other Asian markets also rebounded. The American side is led by Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. A Commerce Ministry statement announcing Liu's plans gave no indication whether other details, such as the size of his delegation, might change. Washington and Beijing have raised tariffs on billions of dollars of each other's exports, disrupting trade in goods from soybeans to medical equipment. Estimates of lost potential sales so far range as high as $25 billion. Both governments have said negotiations were making progress, but Trump expressed frustration Sunday at the pace. Mnuchin said Monday that Chinese officials "were trying to go back on some of the language" that had been negotiated in 10 earlier rounds of talks. In response, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, Geng Shuang, said Beijing "is sincere in continuing consultations." Asked whether China took Trump's threat seriously, Geng said similar situations had happened "many times before." "We hope the United States can still work together with China," Geng said at a news briefing. "On the basis of mutual respect and equality, we will resolve each other's legitimate concerns and strive to reach an agreement of mutual benefit and win-win." The decision to send Liu to Washington as scheduled shows China "urgently hopes to reach an agreement," said Ma Hong, a professor at Tsinghua University's School of Economics and Management. "They couldn't abandon it just because of a Twitter comment," said Ma. The conflict is testing how far Beijing is willing to go in changing a state-led economic model it sees as the path to prosperity and global influence and how much power Washington will have to enforce any agreement. The United States accuses Beijing of pressing foreign companies to hand over technology in exchange for market access, improperly subsidizing Chinese firms and stealing American trade secrets. No details of the talks have been released. But private sector analysts say Beijing is willing to change details of its plans so long as it preserves the ruling Communist Party's dominant economic role. The Trump administration has imposed 10% tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports and 25% tariffs on another $50 billion. The Chinese have retaliated by targeting $110 billion in U.S. imports. Trump said Sunday he also planned to impose 25% tariffs on another $325 billion in Chinese products. That would extend penalties to everything China ships to the United States, its biggest foreign customer. A stumbling block in the talks is U.S. insistence on an enforcement mechanism with penalties if Beijing fails to keep its promises. The Trump administration wants to keep tariffs on Chinese imports to maintain leverage over Beijing. Chinese negotiators have balked at what economists say they might see as giving Washington too much control. "It is not completely an economic issue," said Ma. "After all, it concerns the rights of a sovereign country." ___ Associated Press Economics Writer Paul Wiseman in Washington contributed to this report. LOGAN A 62-year-old man is dead after police say a 17-year-old boy attacked him for sexually assaulting his younger sister, though investigators found video footage that showed the assault never occurred. On April 23 about 3 p.m., the 16-year-old girl said Michael Fife, 62, sexually assaulted her while the two were on a Cache Valley Transit District bus, according to Logan police. The girl immediately called her 17-year-old brother and told him about the alleged assault, police said. Minutes later, police said the brother located Fife getting off the bus near 300 South and 100 West, ran toward him and assaulted him. Fife fell to the sidewalk, suffered head injuries and was left unconscious, while the brother fled on foot, according to police. A witness called police and paramedics to the scene. Fife was transported to Logan Hospital and was later transferred to McKay-Dee Hospital, police said. At 6:15 p.m., the 16-year-old girl called police to report the sexual assault she said occurred on the bus. Logan police detectives reviewed video footage of the incident that showed Fife walking past the girl, but authorities said no sexual assault occurred. On April 27, police said Fife died of his injuries. The case is still under investigation, police said. The names of the juveniles were not released. SALT LAKE CITY While ride-hailing giant Uber is setting up for a Thursday IPO that is expected to lead to a $90 billion valuation, drivers around the country are reportedly preparing to stage strikes against the company on Wednesday, demanding better wages, better benefits and the right to organize. Driver's from Uber competitor Lyft, which staged its own public stock launch last month, are also participating in the labor actions, which are mostly focused in large U.S. metro areas, including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington and Boston. An Uber spokeswoman told the Deseret News Tuesday that the company wasn't aware of any Utah drivers participating in the work stoppage efforts. Lyft declined to respond to inquiries about what its Utah drivers had planned for Wednesday. Numerous drivers' coalitions were planning actions, including Rideshare Drivers United. The group is asking its 4,400 Los Angeles-area members to participate in a 24-hour work stoppage and plans to picket Los Angeles International Airport and hold a noon rally "where drivers will speak about the impact of withering wages (and) other abuses inflicted by Uber and Lyft as both companies launch their IPOs." In a press release, Rideshare Drivers noted Uber had recently cut the per-mile driver's compensation by 25 percent and is demanding minimum compensation of $28 per hour before expenses or $17 per hour post-expenses. One Los Angeles Uber driver noted how big a role airport transportation plays in the company's overall ride volumes and is demanding fair compensation. Uber estimates that 15 percent of their revenues come from airport pickups said Karim Bayumi, a Lyft driver who frequently works at the Los Angeles airport. We provide an essential service, but Uber and Lyft investors are only ones reaping the benefits. Our picket and rally will show that ride-share drivers will not be invisible we demand justice. An Uber spokeswoman said the company was working toward improving wages and benefits for its approximately 3 million drivers worldwide. Drivers are at the heart of our service we cant succeed without them and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road," the spokeswoman said in a statement. "Whether its more consistent earnings, stronger insurance protections or fully funded four-year degrees for drivers or their families, well continue working to improve the experience for and with drivers. The company also noted inits S-1 filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that it funneled $300 million back to some 1.1 million longtime drivers via an appreciation program in late April. In response to a Deseret News request for comment on the labor actions, a Lyft spokesman declined to weigh-in on what he knew about potential strikes by Utah-based Lyft drivers, but did said say Lyft's compensation rates had been moving up, and that the average wage was over $20 per hour. "Lyft drivers hourly earnings have increased over the last two years, and they have earned more than $10 billion on the Lyft platform," the spokesman said. "Over 75 percent drive less than 10 hours a week to supplement their existing jobs. On average, Lyft drivers earn over $20 per hour. "We know that access to flexible, extra income makes a big difference for millions of people, and were constantly working to improve how we can best serve our driver community." While Uber has also cited studies showing its U.S. drivers were earning between $18-$20 per hour, a 2018 analysis by the Economic Policy Institute came to somewhat different conclusions. Lawrence Mishel, a distinguished fellow with the institute, found that "after accounting for Ubers commissions and fees and vehicle expenses, and taking into account the cost of a modest package of health insurance and other benefits equivalent to those earned by W-2 workers, Uber drivers earn the equivalent of $9.21 in hourly wages less than what is earned by 90 percent of all other wage and salary earners." Mishel also pilloried the notion that gig economy workers independent contract or freelance workers were becoming a significant economic force. "The low pay and small economic weight of Uber and the gig economy overall, coupled with the fact that Uber drivers and other gig workers are mostly working on a part-time basis as a way to earn supplementary income, argue for a change in perspective, Mishel said in his report. There is a lot of hype around Uber and the gig economy. But in any conference on the future of work, Uber and the gig economy deserve at most a workshop, not a plenary. Joyce Beebe, a Rice University public finance fellow at the school's Baker Institute for Public Policy, recently completed research on the "sharing economy." In a statement, she predicted the chances of drivers at Uber and Lyft making any headway on their wage demands, even with the threat of labor actions, were slim. Uber and Lyft are unlikely to increase drivers minimum wage to $28 simply because of the May 8 strike, Beebe said. The success of their business models attributes, in a large part, to the independent contractor classification of their drivers. Beebe noted ride-hailing companies have an even greater responsiblity to control costs once they enter the public markets and become beholden to stockholders who are seeking returns on their investments. The companies may offer to increase drivers pay on a one-time bonus basis or in small increments, but remember, although Uber is a tech unicorn, it is still deep in red, losing over $1 billion in 2018, Beebe said. After the IPO, Uber will face pressure from investors and the market to show financial improvements, which makes substantial increases in drivers pay unlikely." Correction: An earlier version incorrectly stated the Uber IPO would raise $90 billion in new capital for the company. The stock launch is expected to result in a valuation for the company of about $90 billion. SALT LAKE CITY Two of three San Juan County commissioners voted Tuesday to hire a new county administrator over the objections of the public and despite being warned the vote violated the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act. Commissioner Willie Grayeyes, in a work meeting prior to the regular commission meeting, said he wanted to take action on hiring David Everitt as interim county administrator. "The law can be contested," he said. Although a resolution to hire Everitt was on the work meeting agenda, it was not noticed on the regular commission agenda for Tuesday, where members took the vote. "The action they took violates the open meetings law," said Jeff Hunt, an attorney specializing in First Amendment, media and intellectual property law. The commission vote came after resident Kim Henderson stood up in the work meeting to object to any formal action on Everitt and after fellow commissioner Bruce Adams voiced his concerns over how Everitt's name rose to the top as a replacement candidate for KellyPehrson's former job. Pehrson resigned effective April 26 to take a job with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, but also after being at an impasse with Grayeyes and the other newly elected commissioner, Kenneth Maryboy, who took office in January. During the work meeting, Adams said the job opening should have been filled in-house, or if there were no suitable candidates, advertised outside. "I wonder what the negotiation process was and why I wasn't included," Adams said, referencing a meeting Everitt had with Grayeyes and Maryboy to discuss working for San Juan County. "It just seems like it was a process that wasnt followed," Adams said. Hunt said Everitt's hiring is not automatically null and void as a result of the illegal vote, but it is in jeopardy if anyone files an objection. Henderson filed a complaint over the vote immediately afterward with the San Juan County Attorney's Office a complaint she says is the second one she's lodged over open meeting violations. "They're blatantly disregarding the law and how things are supposed to function. It is not like they dont know. They have been made aware of it," Henderson said. Last week, Maryboy attempted to call an emergency meeting to hire Everitt, but Adams was on his way to Salt Lake City for an unrelated meeting and couldn't attend. In the work session Tuesday, Maryboy complained that he had followed the requirements to notify fellow commissioners and then submitted via email his request for public notification three times to San Juan County Clerk-Auditor John David Nielson, which wasn't handled. Nielson replied that he never received any specific details about what was supposed to be on the agenda, which is a requirement under the open meetings law. Adams also questioned the funding source for the new county administrator's $149,838 annual salary, which while Pehrson was employed there, was paid in part by the federal government because of his role as the county's emergency operations manager. Everitt is still under contract with Moab as its city manager into October, but he told commissioners he would get out of that obligation to fill the interim position's requirements. SALT LAKE CITY Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski presented her fourth and final budget proposal Tuesday night, calling it the "culmination of the work" city leaders have done together as she heads into the final months of her time in office. "As my last budget as your mayor, I am proud to say that the fiscal year 2020 budget firmly establishes the commitments we have made to this community and creates a path for future mayors and councils to build from," Biskupski said. Biskupski's $330 million budget prioritizes housing, transit, parks and roads but also police, who, after urging city leaders for years to raise their pay, will get a notable salary hike this year if the City Council approves Biskupski's proposal. In addition to $34.5 million in new revenue thanks to the sales tax hike the City Council approved last year for police, housing, streets and transit, Biskupski's plan also includes an overall growth in revenue of $28.7 million from property and sales tax collection, as well as the Salt Lake County-approved transportation sales tax last year, according to the mayor's office. To mark the first full year of collection from last year's sales tax hike, the mayor recommended prioritizing nearly $7.7 million of that new money to transit, $5.1 million toward affordable housing, $5.4 million for streets and $12.5 million for law enforcement. Biskupski proclaimed that with this new revenue, Salt Lake City for the "first time in five years" avoided using one-time money to pay for ongoing costs, a problem she first aimed to tackle in her 2017 budget proposal. To celebrate, Biskupski said she's "once again prioritizing the employees, our experts who keep this city thriving." For all nonunion employees, Biskupski proposed a 2 percent overall salary increase. For union-represented police, Biskupski also recommended a 2 percent raise for officers who are not scheduled to receive a step increase negotiated as part of their overall contract. But city leaders will still need to work toward their goal to add 50 more officers to the police department with the new sales tax dollars. To do that, Biskupski said, "we must continue to make appropriate adjustments" to ensure the department remains competitive with other agencies. So Biskupski recommended using a portion of the new sales tax revenue allocated to the police department last year to increase the starting wage for officers by 2 percent, as well as a new 6 percent step-increase for officers at their 12-year mark. The salary package proposal comes after negotiations with the Salt Lake Police Association, which voted on and accepted the package last week, the mayor said. "This change will help even out the lifetime compensation we offer our police officers, to fully reflect the full 20- to 25-year career path of these public servants who protect our city," Biskupski said. For the fire department, the mayor proposed $16,000 in one-time salary bonuses requested by fire officials as an incentive for firefighters to attend paramedic school. Overall, the mayor's proposed city employee salary increases would cost the city an additional $3.8 million, as well as $1.4 million for increased health care costs. "I am proud that over the last three years, we have prioritized the well-being of all the employees who keep the capital city running," the mayor said. The mayor also proposed $500,000 to upgrade police body cameras, to give officers automatically activated cameras rather than cameras that must be turned on manually. "This technology not only brings greater public accountability and replaces old equipment, it allows officers to focus on protecting the public during stressful and dangerous situations," Biskupski said. In addition to police, Biskupski also prioritized parks. The mayor proposed $730,000 to restore the languishing Liberty Park Seven Canyons Fountain a 24-year-old fountain the city shut down when funding was short to address needed upgrades and safety concerns. To help "alleviate stress" on Liberty Park, Biskupski proposed $31,000 to create a "robust event grounds" at Jordan Park, to provide a new location for large-scale events seen at Liberty Park. Also, the mayor proposed spending $1 million to restore the historic Fisher Mansion Carriage House to "anchor" the Jordan River Bridge with a nature center, a canoe-share program and a Greenbike station. For transit, Biskupski proposed the city build on last year's $4.2 million investment in a high-frequency bus network, by using $2.8 million this year to enable the full operation of bus stops along 200 South, 900 South and 2100 South. Biskupski also recommended an additional $800,000 to continue a pilot project to support a ride-share transit program for residents in Rose Park, Glendale, Poplar Grove, the far East Bench, and the Upper Avenues. For housing, Biskupski proposed using $5.1 million to continue four programs she launched in April to bring housing stability to more than 120 people while also recommending the city start two new programs. One would use $300,000 to identify housing discrimination and help provide assistance to victims, and one would use $350,000 to create a landlord insurance program to encourage more building owners to rent to individuals using housing assistance. The mayor also recommended the city use $500,000 to double down on its Community Land Trust funding, a trust used to lower the cost of home ownership. With that money, the mayor said the city could purchase and renovate seven additional homes that could then be sold at lower prices. For roads, Biskupski proposed continuing the momentum from last year's budget, when the city used $2.4 million to double its street maintenance crew. The mayor also recommended using more than $2.1 million for new capital improvement projects, bringing the total to $5.4 million for streets. That, combined with the city's first round of financing from last year's voter-approved $87 million bond, will generate $20 million for street reconstruction projects slated for 2020 and 2021, the mayor said. Additionally, Biskupski proposed $4 million to help the city toward its goal to reduce overall carbon output by 80 percent by 2040 by buying a new fleet of hybrid police vehicles meant to replace 110 of the police department's "worst" vehicles with the new Ford Responder Hybrid Sedan, a vehicle now used in the New York Police Department. "By prioritizing hybrid sedans with this funding, we estimate that each sedan will create an annual $2,300 fuel cost savings, as well as prevent 15,000 pounds of CO2 from entering the atmosphere annually," the mayor said. Finally, the mayor capped off her budget proposal by recommending $80,000 for a City Council initiative to hire a full-time census coordinator to ensure every city resident is counted in the 2020 census. Referring to public concern about the upcoming census stemming from federal decision-making about the census, including attempts to add in a citizenship question, Biskupski said "Salt Lake City cannot afford to be undercounted" as "one of the most economically and racially diverse populations in Utah." "Unfortunately, the Legislature declined to provide any additional funding for statewide efforts to ensure Utahns are properly counted but the capital city will not make that mistake," the mayor said. City Council Vice Chairman James Rogers praised the mayor's budget, expressing excitement to see sales tax dollars from last year's hike come to fruition. "The great thing about it is that we're at a point where it doesn't seem like we're scouring under the seat cushions," he said. The council will scour the budget in the coming weeks to work through the details, but Rogers ultimately had high praise for Biskupski's final budget. "This is a great start," he said. "For me, I think this is the best budget I've seen come out of this administration." The council must adopt a balanced budget by June 30. Correction: In an earlier version, photo captions misidentified Salt Lake police detective Greg Wilking as Greg Wilkins. The Utah Republican Party now has a tremendous opportunity to revitalize the party and win more elections, thanks to the state delegates selection of new party leadership over the weekend. Congratulations to the new executive team: Derek Brown, Aaron Starks, Kendra Seeley and Mike Bird. If youre tired of the bickering and are ready to move on from the political conflicts of recent years (like me), this ought to be a shot in the arm for Utah Republicans. Our new party leadership has pledged to get back to the most basic and fundamental purpose of the states GOP ... winning elections. In 2018 we saw a number of defeats to Republican candidates (especially in Salt Lake County) that no one is interested in repeating. Moving forward, its incumbent upon each and every Republican (not just our newly elected party leaders) to show the people of Utah why the bedrock principles of conservatism and free enterprise are best suited to fostering Utahs success and prosperity for years to come. We are the party that supports life, liberty and opportunity. Life for the unborn as well as those who have been born. Liberty for every person regardless of gender, race or creed. And opportunity for those who line the classroom, and those who line up at soup kitchens. We are the party that rallies to combat our suicide epidemic, protects the ability of the private sector to innovate and empowers families and communities to flourish. As Republicans, we support the idea embedded in our nation's founding that states are laboratories of democracy, and that government closer to the people governs better for the people. We recognize that free and open expression of thought is a foundational pillar of this country, and that we must not give in to those trying to silence or shout down voices they disagree with. As Republicans we believe our constitutionally protected freedoms of speech, press and religion are sacrosanct. As Republicans we believe in fiscal responsibility. Government cannot and should not be the provider of every good thing a society needs. We must push back against the proclivity of government to grow to become all things to all people. But we do believe in smart, limited investments of taxpayer dollars for the public good, with clearly restrained government. Our state sits on the cusp of a great opportunity. Weve flourished more magnificently than any other state over the last decade, and the coming years will bring a host of new challenges and opportunities. We will thrive in this future only if we remain committed to the bedrock principles that have made this nation, and this state, the opportunity capital of the world, while ever seeking bold leadership and innovative public policy. These are just some of the reasons Im a Republican. But I also recognize there are many who are disillusioned with the GOP. Or others in our younger generations who have never been inclined to lend their support. For those of you who have left the Utah Republican Party whether youre tired of past infighting, frustrated with national leaders or because our party hasnt done a good enough job communicating I understand. But please reconsider. Today is a new day for the Utah GOP. Help us be the party that more successfully lives up to the ideals we hold dear. For those of you who arent sold on the bedrock principles of conservatism and free enterprise, look at the impact free markets and free people have on the world. Free enterprise has lifted more people out of starvation-level poverty than any other force in world history, even just in my lifetime. Free ideas, free people and free commerce (and yes, with an important but limited role that federal, state and local governments play) have reduced human suffering and expanded human flourishing to a degree never seen in history. All of these ideas are what have made our nation and our state truly great. And I believe with our new Republican Party leadership at the helm fighting for Republican candidates who embody these ideas, that success, prosperity and opportunity can continue for each and every Utahn. We all know that 2020 will be an intense year, politically speaking. But if we all fight passionately for these ideals, come 2021 well be well-suited for the next decade of being the opportunity capital of the world. SANDY It's official, the Canyons Board of Education approved Tuesday a $50,000 starting wage for teachers this fall and a $7,665 annual raise for all certified teachers in an agreement with the Canyons Education Association. The pay increase, which will require a property tax increase, means the Canyons will be among the highest paying school districts statewide. At this point in the yet-to-be completed contract negotiation season, Canyons' pay is second only to Park City School District, said Leon Wilcox, the district's business administrator. The pay raise includes $500 for each educator provided under the Teacher and Student Success Act that appropriated more than $98 million statewide for local education initiatives. The act allows all schools to use 25 percent of the funding for teacher salary and benefits. Although the board voted unanimously to approve the agreement, which was earlier approved by the teacher association, board member Chad Iverson called out the Utah Legislature for refusing to raise taxes for education, which forces the local school boards to make difficult decisions. "I don't think they really have the courage to raise taxes for education," Iverson said. "Then it comes down to a seven-member board in Canyons School District to raise taxes unilaterally." He also took issue with the school board's process, which was announcing the administration's tentative agreement at the district's teacher of year celebration before the board had an opportunity to discuss it among themselves. "Given where we are I think these meetings are kind of a sham," he said. Board member Amanda Oaks said the fact that Utah ranks last in the country in terms of per pupil funding "is frankly an embarrassment," particularly in a state that says it values families and education. Teachers deserve better, she said. "I am who I am because of my family but also because of remarkable teachers I've had in my life," Oaks said. Board member Steve Wrigley said he spent his career in human services and because of that choice, both he and his wife had to work to support their five children. When teachers are not paid a living wage, there are consequences, he said. Wrigley said he occasionally works as a substitute teacher. He said he has observed few male teachers and many female educators who work for about five years and leave because they can't afford child care. Raising teacher pay gives professionals more options and it boosts their morale, he said. If a teacher feels good about themself, "you're going to have a student who feels good about themself." "It's all for the kids," Wrigley said. Teachers who addressed the board earlier in the evening thanked the members for supporting their work, which ultimately supports students. One teacher said she will for the first time consider not working two jobs and she won't have to resort to drastic steps to raise money such as selling plasma. In Canyons' case, the pay raise for licensed teachers will also require a local property tax increase around $12 monthly on the average home in the district. The school district will conduct a truth-in-taxation hearing in August to present the proposed tax increase to district patrons. Cookie banner We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy. Please also read our Privacy Notice and Terms of Use, which became effective December 20, 2019. By choosing I Accept, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. SALT LAKE CITY A Murray man accused of killing a man in the parking lot of a Hire's restaurant last month shot the victim in the back, according to court records. Hassan Al-Rekabi, 18, was charged Wednesday in 3rd District Court with murder, a first-degree felony; discharge of a firearm, a first-degree felony; discharge of a firearm, a second-degree felony; and obstructing justice, a second-degree felony. On April 28 about 1:40 a.m., West Valley police found the body of Jake Gengelbach, 22, in the parking lot of Hire's Big H, 4700 S. 2900 West. Four shell casings were also found in the parking lot, according to charging documents. Al-Rekabi and Gengelbach were standing by the same vehicle when Al-Rekabi "reached over the top of the vehicle and fired four shots," the charges state. An autopsy determined Gengelbach suffered "multiple gunshot wounds to the back," according to charging documents. A possible motive for the killing was not given in charging documents. Police had previously stated that the victim and three men arrested in connection with the shooting were all acquainted. Bail for Al-Rekabi was set at $1 million. Based on several tips, a SWAT team surrounded a house in Sandy, 2125 E. Newcastle Drive (8900 South) on April 29. Just as the SWAT team was about to serve a warrant, Al-Rekabi drove away from the house. He was taken into custody a short time later. Later, police announced that Samuel Maile Niu, 19, and Bryan Zumaya-Garcia, 21, had both been arrested for investigation of obstructing justice. Both men were present during the shooting, police said. As of Wednesday morning, formal charges had not been filed against either man. MIDVALE A wanted fugitive tried to avoid being captured by ramming two police vehicles and leading officers on a chase, police reported Wednesday morning. Boris Moiseyev, 40, was eventually arrested by Unified police and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail for investigation of two counts of aggravated assault, drug distribution, failing to stop for police, leaving the scene of an accident, driving on a denied license, transaction of a firearm by a restricted person, and tampering with evidence. Unified police received information Tuesday night that Moiseyev, who had two outstanding no bail warrants out for his arrest, was at the Chelsea Park Apartments, 7385 S. Catalpa St. (450 West), said Unified Police Sgt. Melody Gray. When officers arrived about 11:30 p.m., they spotted Moiseyev in the parking lot. "As I pulled into the parking lot, Boris aimed his vehicle at me and drove, head-on into my vehicle," the arresting officer wrote in a Salt Lake County report. "He rammed another officer who was behind me, pulling into the parking lot." Gray said one of the patrol cars had to be towed from the scene. Neither officer was injured. During the ensuing chase, "Boris ran me off the road by driving head-on at me at approximately 300 West 6800 South. Boris ran several red lights and drove with extremely willful and wanton disregard for others' lives," according to the report. The chase ended in a parking lot in Murray when an officer was able to pin Moiseyev's vehicle, Gray said. "The suspect tried exiting his vehicle, and threw a loaded 1911 handgun out the door, into a field in order to tamper or conceal evidence," the report states. Moiseyev's extensive criminal history includes being charged in March with failing to stop at the command of a law enforcer and reckless driving, being convicted in 2014 of drug possession and sentenced to up to five years in prison, and another case in 2014 in which he was convicted of attempted assault on a police officer, according to court records. SALT LAKE CITY A beluga whale allegedly trained by the Russian navy has returned. According to the Dodo, a woman in Hammerfest, Norway, accidentally dropped her phone in the ocean. Ina Maniska said she and her friends had visited the waterfront to find the beluga whale, which appeared near Hammerfest a few weeks ago. Maniska accidentally dropped her phone into the ocean, and the whale dove down to catch it. It resurfaced a few minutes later with the phone in its mouth. The incident was captured on Instagram by one of Maniskas friends, where its gotten over 19,000 likes. The belugas original attire a harness with Equipment St. Petersburg printed on it initially drew suspicion that the whale had been trained by the Russian Navy as a maritime spy. The harness could have potentially held a camera or weapon, but the Russian Defense Ministry has denied using sea animals for military purposes, according to the The Washington Post. The harness was taken off the whale and turned in to Norways Police Security Service. The Post also reports that while belugas are generally shy, isolation can cause them to be more trusting, which can definitely be seen in its interactions with Maniska and others in Hammerfest. According to German broadcaster Deutsche Welle, the beluga may have been used as a therapy animal for special needs children and could have been trained to be social. DW also reports that Norwegian officials are considering sending the beluga to a whale reserve in Iceland. SALT LAKE CITY Another member of Utah's congressional delegation wouldn't mind seeing special counsel Robert Mueller testify about his report on Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. "If the special counsel believes his findings have been misrepresented in any way, I would welcome the opportunity to hear his testimony," Rep. John Curtis, R-Utah, posted on his Facebook page. "As it stands, we have access to the 450-page Mueller report, which was the culmination of a two-year, $25 million investigation by a highly revered and respected special counsel, who had the support of both Republicans and Democrats in Congress for the duration of his efforts." Attorney General William Barr released a redacted version of the report last month. The Democrat-controlled House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Barr in contempt of Congress for not turning over the unredacted document. Ahead of the vote, President Donald Trump invoked executive privilege over the report and its underlying evidence. The committee has invited Mueller to testify but a date is not set. Mueller criticized how Barr, who testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week, initially characterized his report. He wrote a letter to Barr saying his four-page summary "did not fully capture the context, nature and substance of this offices work and conclusions." Mueller found no collusion between Trump and the Russians, and though he uncovered substantial evidence of obstruction, his report didn't say whether the president should be prosecuted. Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, earlier said he's satisfied with the report's conclusion and that he's ready to turn the page on "this distracting chapter" in U.S. history. "Whether or not Mueller testifies, I stand by my original statement," he said Wednesday. Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, was the first member of the Utah delegation and one of the few Republicans who said he would welcome Mueller's "take" on the investigation. "Id like to hear from Mr. Mueller, I think a lot of people would like to hear his perspective on the report he put out and the conclusions he reached," Romney said. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, is "not against" Mueller testifying, said his spokesman Conn Carroll. Utah's only Democrat in Congress, Rep. Ben McAdams, has said he is open to hearing from Mueller if that offers additional transparency for the public. Curtis said he stood by the investigation because Utahns have an "absolute right" to the truth. He said now that the investigation is done, it's time for Congress to "honor the results" and move on to other pressing issues. Rep. Chris Stewart, R-Utah, also wants to bring Mueller before Congress, but for different reasons. "Theres lots of questions we would like to ask him," Stewart posted on social media, including, "When did he first realize that conspiracy/collusion did not occur? Why did he not investigate or provide information on DOJ/Intelligence assets being run as spies into the Trump campaign?" SALT LAKE CITY CBS has censored the most recent episode of The Good Fight, a legal drama for an international reason. The censored scene occurs when lawyers are speaking with their clients and then the scene cuts to a black screen where the words, CBS HAS CENSORED THIS CONTENT appears, according to The New York Times. The Good Fight showrunner Michelle King said some fans looked at the moment with satire. But she said the show meant to add the censorship on purpose, according to Business Insider. CBS censors segment about Chinese censorship, replacing censored segment with censorship statement. https://t.co/LA8oPdQNjw (@jgriffiths) May 8, 2019 The Good Fight often includes an interlude-like animated musical short where it explains complicated political issues. The New Yorker compares it to Schoolhouse Rock! A theme of last Thursdays episode was American companies that want to do business in China and the pressures they face to appease Chinese government censors. An animated short was created on that same theme, according to The New York Times. King told The New York Times that CBS requested the short be taken out two weeks before the episodes release. Why?: A spokesperson for CBS All Access, where the show airs, said that CBS had concerns with some subject matter in the episodes animated short, according to Fox News. Jonathan Coulton, a songwriter who makes these shorts, told The New York Times that The Good Wife the predecessor show to The Good Fight was banned in China, and the scene included a number of references to currently banned content in China. It was a little bit like poking the bear, Coulton said. They had gotten approval all along, and at the last minute, a couple of weeks before, they got word that they couldnt put it in the show. King told The New Yorker that she originally planned to leave the censored placard up on the screen for the entirety of the scene, which was set to last 90 seconds. But viewers interpreted that as satire. It did not occur to me that people would think that it was a joke until, literally, we saw our family this weekend and people didnt realize it had happened, King told The New Yorker. Stanley Rosen, a professor of political science at the University of Southern California, told The New Yorker that he doubts the scene would have put employees at risk. But he said that depends on if CBS was seen as responsible for the content. He said that concerns over offending China arent new. SALT LAKE CITY A new police artist sketch of a possible suspect in the 1995 killing of Rosie Tapia has been released. On Tuesday, the Utah Cold Case Coalition released a drawing of a male who may be involved in the abduction and assault of Rosie on Aug. 13, 1995. She was taken early in the morning from her bedroom at the Hartland Apartments, 1616 W. Snow Queen Place (1675 South). Her body was found nearby in a canal near 1900 South and 1600 West. According to the coalition, "the sketch is based on the recollections of a neighbor of the west-side apartments where the 6-year-old girl lived when she was abducted, raped and murdered." The neighbor, who did not want to be identified, said he saw a male, possibly a teenager, "coming from the direction of the canal. The neighbor said he at first thought the male teen was wearing pants of two colors but then realized that his pants were wet," according to a prepared statement from the coalition. In March, the Cold Case Coalition was contacted by a retired California police sergeant, a certified forensic sketch artist, who offered his services for free. The coalition put the witness in contact with the retired sergeant via video, and the new sketch was made. The witness believed the teen was 16 or 17 years old, "and described him as Hispanic, a slight build and a narrow face with high cheekbones. He was wearing denim jeans and a white shirt and a medium length gold chain," according to the coalition. Anyone with information on the unidentified person in the sketch can call the coalition at 801-759-2248, or contact Salt Lake City police at 801-799-3000. In 2010, Salt Lake police released a sketch of a man wearing a hat and sunglasses who brought Rosie to her apartment just hours before she was abducted. That man had still not been identified. The nonprofit Utah Cold Case Coalition, headed by Salt Lake attorney Karra Porter, has been dedicated to finding answers in the case of Rosie Tapia since its formation in 2017. In November of 2017, it made a plea with anyone who lived at the Hartland Apartments at the time of the abduction or who was in that area and may have seen something, to contact them. No one has ever been arrested or charged in connection with the girl's death. PROVO Gov. Gary Herbert and legislative leaders faced an audience clearly opposed to imposing sales taxes on services at a Utah Eagle Forum-sponsored discussion on tax reform Wednesday. "We're starting over," Senate Majority Whip Dan Hemmert, R-Orem, said after the panel fielded question after question about the failed attempt to pass a tax reform bill last session that would have included sales taxes on a wide range of services. A similar sentiment was expressed by the governor and House Speaker Brad Wilson, R-Kaysville, who both had to leave before the end of the two-hour event at the Provo Public Library at Academy Square that attracted about 75 people. "I can tell you that we'd probably all rather take a whippin' than have to talk about tax reform and tax changes because anytime you have a change, somebody says, 'Well, you're raising my tax,'" Herbert said. Wilson stressed that taxing services is "by no means" the only solution to the state's lagging sales tax revenues and said no one should assume the renewed effort on tax reform is starting where lawmakers left off at the end of the session. Former state lawmaker Jim Ferrin was invited to speak and told the conservative audience the "best thing" he heard from the panel was that HB441, the bill from last session, had been scrapped. "Your voice was heard. It stopped this awful bill," Ferrin said to applause. He compared the bill's rapid advance initially to "a freight train" and said he liked seeing the officials onstage squirm. "Keep the heat on. This is working." Wilson said he gets "the concerns that people have about government getting too big and causing disruption. I don't need to be reminded of that." The speaker asked opponents of HB441 to trust him to look out for the state's economic interests. The event comes just days after legislative leaders announced the makeup of the tax reform task force that includes tax experts as well as lawmakers, charged with coming up with a new tax reform proposal. HB441, which attempted to address the issue by adding new sales taxes on services while cutting both the sales and income tax rates, faltered during the 2019 Legislature. The bill was introduced late in the 45-day session and quickly met with opposition, including from the influential Utah Eagle Forum, known for its lobbying strength at the Legislature. Herbert, who proposed broadening the sales tax base to include new services while lowering the rate in his budget recommendations, said at the time he hoped the task force would come up with a solution that could be approved in a special session. But Utah Eagle Forum President Gayle Ruzicka said during the panel discussion Wednesday that tax reform should wait until the 2020 Legislature begins meeting in late January. "Please do not do this in a special session. It's too big," Ruzicka told the panel. Legislative leaders have already suggested the task force, which was put together almost two months after the end of the general session and has yet to meet, may need more time. Wilson told the Deseret News Monday that a special session "would be my hope. But again, policy is more important than checking the box we had a special deal to deal with it." Ruzicka made her plea after the governor and speaker had left. Hemmert said the decision about a special session is up to the governor but acknowledged there are discussions about waiting among lawmakers "that maybe we would prefer this to occur at the beginning of the general session." Herbert's deputy chief of staff, Paul Edwards, said in a statement issued later Wednesday, "The governor is most interested in doing tax modernization right rather than doing it quickly." Edwards said the governor "is glad to see the Tax Restructuring and Equalization Task Force getting to work, and looks forward to hearing the results of their outreach and study." The panel discussion is one of a number on tax reform expected to occur during the legislative interim. All of the panelists, which included Phil Dean of the Governor's Office of Management and Budget, said all options are being considered. No specific proposals were made by the panelists, although the governor raised the possibility of looking to the state property tax to help correct what he warned is a "potential crisis" as income tax revenues outpace money from sales taxes. Also brought up as an option to be considered is doing away with the Utah Constitution's restriction that prohibits income taxes from being used for anything other than public and higher education needs. That would require amending the constitution, a process that starts with the Legislature and ends by putting the proposed change on the next general election ballot for voter approval. Ruzicka said that's "absolutely" her preference because it would give lawmakers more flexibility in spending money at a time when there are big budget surpluses in income tax collections. She said the governor and lawmakers are paying attention to the concerns she believes many Utahns share about taxing services such as haircuts, lawn care and professional advice from lawyers and accountants. "They're listening," Ruzicka said, noting her organization had little trouble during the session rounding up opponents to HB441. "In a matter of a couple of days, the word went out and the people came running. I was astounded." OGDEN Five people were recently arrested during an undercover sting operation by Weber County Sheriff's investigators targeting potential online child predators. The sheriff's office announced Tuesday that on March 26, while working with other local, state and federal agencies, deputies "conducted a proactive undercover operation utilizing various online social media applications to locate and identify suspects that use the internet to agree to meet minors under the age of 14 for sexual activity." The operation lasted only a few hours but resulted in the arrests of five men, all for investigation of enticing a minor: Randall Nelson, 30, of Clinton. Gerardo Medina, 25, of Clearfield. William Davis, 56, of Ogden. Rumaldo Duran, 26, of Ogden. Cameron Sandoval, 25, of Roy, who was arrested for investigation of an additional charge of dealing in harmful materials to a minor. The men believed they were talking to a 13-year-old online. Sometimes agents posed as a girl, other times a boy, according to various jail reports. When Nelson was arrested, he told investigators "that he had a problem and said that around age 25 he realized that he was attracted to underage girls. He also stated that he had been questioned by detectives in the past for enticing a minor and providing the girl with alcohol," according to a Weber County Jail booking report. Davis was convicted of sex abuse of a child in 2002, according to court records. In exchange for his guilty plea, five other counts of sex abuse of a child were dismissed, according to court records. He was sentenced to five years to life at the Utah State Prison. Correction: The headline on a previous version implied five men who were arrested are from Weber County. Two are from Davis County. SALT LAKE CITY Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes urged Congress to pass legislation that would give legal marijuana-related businesses access to the federal banking system. Reyes said Congress needs to face the reality that legislation is crucial to providing structure to the rapidly growing cannabis industry. "In Utah, we need to address the business side of our states medical marijuana law," he said. "If we dont act, there could be serious issues for both state government and our financial institutions." Most banks and credit unions dont want to work with marijuana-related businesses and risk running afoul of regulators. As a result, working in the marijuana business is largely a cash-only operation vulnerable to violent crime and fraud and a headache for governments having to process thousands of dollars in taxes paid in cash. Reyes banded with 38 attorneys general in urging to pass the Secure and Fair Enforcement or SAFE Banking Act or similar measures. A House committee passed the bill earlier this year and it awaits a vote on the floor before it could move to the Senate. GRANTSVILLE An Army veteran who worked in Iraq as a civilian after he deployed is settling into a new chapter in life in Tooele County. He is looking for a new job and a new pace in life. But he already has a couple of friends making big adjustments of their own. "I had taken to her probably more that she had taken to me," said Shane Lucey, who moved to Grantsville earlier this year and is making a home with his new dog, Lucky. Lucey first deployed to Baghdad as a soldier in 2009. When he was done in the Army, he went back in 2014 and worked security. Thirteen months ago, he heard barking below the street and rescued a female puppy. "We found her in a drainage hole, just hanging out, and we were like, 'Lets get her out of there,'" Lucey said. The contract security workers took her in at their office, even though it was against the rules. Lucey took great care of Lucky, the abandoned pup. "I was giving her baths and keeping her clean, making sure she had water, Lucey said. Lucky made Lucey's time in Iraq a little bit easier to manage. "It didnt matter if it was hot or cold, Id be hanging out with her out on the steps," he said. Last summer, when Lucey returned to Baghdad after a break, Lucky had given birth to eight puppies, one of which was named Charm. "Any animal you come across, you always will make a connection with them, Lucey said. Lucey had bonded with Lucky, and he wanted to bring her and her puppies home. SPCA International worked with Operation Baghdad Pups to make it happen. "They are big on getting dogs home for soldiers and veterans," Lucey said. The dogs spent two months with a veterinarian getting the proper shots and health checks before a week of travel and layovers to get to Utah where life is different. "She didn't want to walk in the grass because she didn't know what it was exactly," said Lucey. The dogs had never seen grass, or cows, or other things theyll see in Grantsville. "I will get them trained eventually. They're very, very stubborn," Lucey said. Fortunately, they are also eager and happy, despite a lot of chewing right now. "I'm just trying to socialize them with other dogs and get them used to living here," Lucey said. The trailer of Rajkumar Guptas next film, Indias Most Wanted, which stars Arjun Kapoor in the lead role, dropped a few days ago and has been a major topic of conversation since. The film is based on true events of how 5 IB agents captured Indias Most Wanted Terrorist without using any bullets, and minimal support from the government. The trailer caught the attention of the audience, especially because even though National Security has been the top agenda this election season, the film shows how the government offered precious little support to capture a deadly terrorist. Soon after, reports started doing rounds that Indias Osama was Yasin Bhatkal, the co-founder of Indian Mujahideen, who was the mastermind behind blasts in Pune, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Jaipur, Delhi and Mumbai. As soon as his name surfaced, supporters of all parties jumped into the fray and started tweeting about which party was responsible for the fact that Bhatkal was still alive, or was it a collective failure. Take a look at these tweets - Subscriber content preview By JERRY SHEDLOCK The Columbian VANCOUVER Tabby Stokes had no dreams, goals or hopes for the future. By age 22, she had been abusing drugs and alcohol for a decade. She was arrested 10 times throughout her addiction, Stokes said, and enrolled in Clark County's Adult Felony Drug Court in 2005 with no real desire to change her life. . . . Subscriber content preview PORTLAND (AP) The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has denied a water quality certification for a proposed natural gas export project on Oregon's southern coast. The Oregonian/OregonLive reports that in a letter Monday to the project backers of the Jordan Cove liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal the agency said it does not have a reasonable assurance that the construction and authorization of the project will comply with applicable Oregon water quality standards. . . . Subscriber content preview SPOKANE (AP) Wildlife managers from tribal, state and local governments are joining forces at Lake Roosevelt this week to combat the spread of northern pike. The Colville, Spokane and Kalispel tribes are working with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and public utility districts in Chelan and Grant counties to catch northern pike in the largest suppression event of its kind. . . . If he promises you the world then its likely he wont deliver. One unfortunate Norwegian woman learnt that the hard way when she was conned out of $200,000 by an Israeli playboy who dubbed himself the Prince of Diamonds. Cecilie Fjellhoy, 29, met Shimon Hayut, 28, on Tinder after the pair matched. She claims that she was swept off her feet by the diamond dealer who would eventually swindle her and leave her mentally unstable after the ordeal. Its just so painful. I just hate myself that I did this, Fjellhoy told ABC News. I had to be put into a hospital. Psychiatric ward. Because of suicidal thoughts because I thought my life was over, like I didnt see a way out. Youve lost your boyfriend but he didnt just dump you, he never existed, he was never your boyfriend. Shimon Hayut had convinced Fjellhoy that he was Simon Leviev, the son of Jewish billionaire diamond merchant Lev Leviev. Just four weeks into their courtship he requested that Fjellhoy take out a line of credit for him in her name as security measure against potential threats against his safety. Hayut managed to use this confidence fraud scheme to victimise multiple Scandinavian women and had previously been jailed in a Finnish prison for three years using the same tactics. So what did Hayut spend the money on? Seducing other women. After tricking Fjellhoy into applying for an American Express platinum card with a falsified income of $200,000, the Tinder Swindler began maxing out the card, racking up two million Norwegian krone ($200,671) in expenses over 54 days. These expenses apparently went towards paying for Hayuts two assistants, a bodyguard and flights around the world. Fjellhoy told the Norwegian paper VG that her money was being spent on Louboutins in Bangkok, Gucci in Barcelona, accommodation at the Ritz Carlton in Berlin and at the Conservatory in Amsterdam. $75,000 was spent on the AMEX between March 2 and March 25. He was also using the money to seduce another Swedish female named Pernilla Sjoholm. Hayut apparently used the same son of a billionaire story. Sjoholm told VG that she also wired Hayut money to the sum of $35,000. This is on top of the $10,000 that Hayut took from Fjellhoy before using it to take his new girlfriend to the opera via limousine. Whilst the swindle may seem obvious to some, Fjellhoy admits that she was taken in by his charms and believed Hayut was a real CEO who would eventually reimburse her. She says her own feelings of love towards Hayut were genuine but he was seducing other women at the same time he was sending her sweet good morning messages. Fjellhoy says that she has learnt her lesson from the experience and is much less naive and trusting. Hayut, according to the Times of Israel, has been wanted for crimes in relation to theft, forgery and fraud since 2011. He also has a record in England, Norway and Sweden. Read Next France wants India, Germany, Brazil and Japan as UNSC permanent members France has made a forceful plea for inclusion of nations like India, Germany, Brazil and Japan as permanent members of United Nations Security Council (UNSC), saying that this is absolutely needed as only a reformed and enlarged UN Security Council will better reflect contemporary realities. The addition of these key members to the UN high-table is among Frances strategic priorities, Frances Permanent Representative to the UN Francois Delattre told reporters at the UN headquarters. In terms of policy, France and Germany have strong policy which is to work together to enlarge the Security Council and to succeed in terms of the negotiations that should lead to the enlargement of the Security Council that we consider absolutely needed to better reflect the world as it is. There is no question about it, the French envoy to the UN told reporters last week. Speaking alongside German envoy to the UN Christoph Heusgen at the end of Germanys Presidency of the Council for April, Delattre emphasised that France considers that Germany, Japan, India, Brazil and a fair representation of Africa in particular are absolutely needed at the table to get towards a fairer representation of the Security Council. This is for us a matter of priority. He underlined that Paris believed the enlargement of the Security Council with the addition of a few key members is one of our strategic priorities. Noting that when France and Germany launched their alliance for multi-materialism, he said it signified that the two nations strongly believed in the UN as the core of todays global governance and that they strongly believed in multilateralism and means that we are actively working to reform and in some respects to refound, reinvent multilateralism so that it is really efficient for the decades to come. India is at the forefront of efforts at the UN to push for the long-pending reform of the Security Council, emphasising that it rightly deserves a place at the UN high table as a permanent member. Indias Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin, speaking at the informal meeting of the Plenary on the Intergovernmental negotiations on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council earlier this year, had said that on the issue of Categories of Membership, a total of 113 member states, out of 122 who submitted their positions in the Framework Document, support expansion in both of the existing categories specified in the Charter. In short, more than 90 per cent of the written submissions in the document are in favour of expansion in both categories of membership specified in the Charter, he had said. Akbaruddin had said that while reform at the UN is a process rather than an event, there is no process known to us here that has traversed winding pathways in the manner as this process of the Reform of the Security Council. In terms of inertia too, it has no peer. While the world is not what it was when we began the process, the objections to moving forward remain the same. While the global challenges of the 21st century have multiplied, we remain divided even about the process to adopt in order to move forward, he had said. France has maintained that if the crises of recent times have confirmed the centrality of the UN, they have also reinforced the need to make the organisation more effective and more representative of the current balances in the world. That is why France pushes for the expansion of the Security Council by supporting the accession to a permanent seat of Germany, Brazil, India, Japan, as well as a greater presence of African countries, according to the Permanent Mission of France. PTI Commerce ministry arranges interaction with Indian diaspora to boost trade with Africa The union commerce ministry and Indian High Commissions and embassies of eleven African countries arranged an interaction over digital video conference (DVC) over two days - on 3 and 6 May - with the Indian business community in Africa. This initiative was held in order to build an effective engagement with the Indian Diaspora in Africa in order to further deepen and strengthen India-Africa trade ties. The interactions with Indian diaspora were held in Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Zambia, Mauritius, Nigeria, Mozambique, Ghana, South Africa, Botswana, and Madagascar. The DVC was attended by over 400 members of Indian business community in 11 African countries. Indias total trade with the African region during 2017-18 was $62.69 billion (8.15 per cent of Indias total trade with the outside World). Indias share of exports to African countries as a percentage of Indias total exports to the world was of the order of 8.21 per cent in 2017-18. Africa regions share in Indias total imports from the world stood at 8.12 per cent in 2017-18. With the worlds largest land mass, 54 countries, a population growing to be almost equivalent to that of India, huge mineral resources, oil wealth, a youthful population, falling poverty levels and increasing consumption patterns, African countries present immense opportunities for India. Africa has a huge demand for new business models for market entry, stable market access, entrepreneurship and investments in transport, telecom, tourism, financial services, real estate and construction. This initiative of the commerce ministry emphasizes the need for a multipronged strategy for further enhancing trade and investment ties between the two regions. According to the commerce ministry, for formulating an effective export strategy it is imperative to engage the Indian business community in Africa for mutual gain for both sides as trade relations between the people of same origin instill greater confidence amongst trade partners. The Indian community in Africa is playing a vital role in all fields like politics, business and education. As per the latest available estimates the current strength of the Indian diaspora in the African countries is 2.8 million out of which 2.5 million are PIOs and rest 220,967 are NRIs. Total overseas Indians are 30.83 million of which 17.83 million are PIOs and 13 million are NRIs. (as per 2016 figures). Indian diaspora in Africa constitutes 9.11 per cent of the total diaspora of India. The Indian diaspora has established strong links with the political, economic and social fabric of the African continent. In order to formulate a strategy to boost India-Africa Trade and Investment, the Indian diaspora in Africa has to be leveraged further in order to ensure that the strategy is effective. Suggestions were sought from the India business community. The major issues highlighted by the Indian business community in these 11 countries are: Improving the Line of Credit system and developing a facility for an affordable and competitive funding; Setting up of Indian banks/financial institutions in Africa; Enhanced Buyers Credit facility for promotion of trade between the two regions; Reviewing and liberalising visa policies from both sides; Need for direct flights between the India and African countries; Exploring the possibility of rupee trade to address the issue of shortage of dollars in region; Creation of common database of buyer-suppliers in the two regions for facilitating matchmaking for enhancement of bilateral trade; Development of a robust trade dispute settlement mechanism; More frequent and structured country/sector specific trade exhibitions in Africa; Establishment of country chapters of FICCI or CII in Africa; and Frequent visits of policy makers, chamber of commerce and investors for familiarisation with local business and investment regime for informed decisions. The Department of Commerce welcomed the suggestions of the Indian business community and assured them that these suggestions will be shared with relevant stakeholders /departments in order to incorporate the suggestions in the India-Africa strategy for trade promotion. Senior officers from department of commerce and ministry of external affairs were present during the interactions. Sensex 324 points, Nifty ends a tad below 11,500 Nifty Ends a Tad Below 11,500 The late selling pulled Nifty50 below its crucial support of 11,500, dragged by Reliance Industries, ICICI Bank, ITC, IOC and Tata Motors which fell 2-4 percent. The BSE Sensex closed at 38,276.63, down 323.71 points and Nifty50 fell 100.35 points to 11,497.90. However, Infosys, HUL, L&T, Wipro, ONGC and Titan Company bucked the trend, rising 1-2 percent. The broader markets also caught in bear trap. The Nifty Midcap index lost 1.2 percent and Smallcap index fell 1 percent. All sectoral indices closed in the red barring IT. Nifty Bank, Metal and Realty were prominent losers, falling over a percent each. Piramal Enterprises Signs MoU with Canada Pension Plan Investment Board Piramal Enterprises signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, a Canadian pension fund, to co-sponsor a renewable energy focused Infrastructure Investment Trust. With an initial corpus of US$ 600 million, and the option to scale further, the InvIT would seek to acquire up to 1.5-2GW of stable and cash generating renewables assets on a hold-to-maturity basis, with a firm focus on diversification of both asset type as well as off-taker profile, the company said in a release. Escorts Q4 Profit Rises 8% to Rs 121 Cr Tractor maker Escorts has reported a 7.8 percent year-on-year growth in profit for quarter ended March 2019. Profit increased to Rs 121.35 crore during the quarter against Rs 112.54 crore in same period last year, the company said. Revenue from operations jumped 13.6 percent year-on-year to Rs 1,631.66 crore in March quarter. VIP Industries Q4 Profit Falls 28% Luggage and travel accessories maker VIP Industries reported a 28 percent year-on-year degrowth in March quarter profit due to weak operating performance. Consolidated profit during the quarter ended March 2019 stood at Rs 25.3 crore, which declined from Rs 35 crore in same period last year. VIP said revenue from operations increased by 20 percent to Rs 435 crore against Rs 362.6 crore in corresponding period last fiscal. Market Update: Benchmark indices erased all its morning gains and trading flat with negative bias with Nifty below 11,600 level. At 14:07 hrs IST, the Sensex is down 36.52 points at 38563.82, while Nifty is down 23 points at 11575.30. About 980 shares have advanced, 1294 shares declined, and 149 shares are unchanged. Yes Bank acquires 12.79% in CG Power: Yes Bank has acquired 8,00,50,000 equity shares of CG Power and Industrial Solutions having nominal value of Rs 2 per share, constituting 12.79% of the paid-up share capital via invocation of pledge of shares of CG Power. Market Opens: It is good start for the Indian indices on May 7 after a weak closing registered on May 6. At 09:16 hrs IST, the Sensex is up 166.55 points at 38,766.89, while Nifty is up 44 points or 0.38% at 11642.30. About 454 shares have advanced, 188 shares declined, and 25 shares are unchanged. Marico, Bharti Airtel, Yes Bank, HDFC Bank, Tata Steel, Vedanta, Tata Motors, IndusInd Bank, Britannia, SBI, Power Grid, are among major gainers on the indices, while lowers are ICICI Bank, IOC, ONGC, Indiabulls Housing, HPCL and BPCL Among the sectors, except energy all other indices are trading higher. Rupee Opens: The Indian rupee opened marginally higher at 69.37 per dollar on Tuesday versus previous close 69.40. Market at pre-open: Benchmark indices are trading higher in the pre-opening session with Nifty above 11,650 level. At 09:03 hrs IST, the Sensex is up 189.69 points or 0.49% at 38790.03, and the Nifty up 71.70 points or 0.62% at 11670. Nomura on ICICI Bank Buy call, raises target to Rs 500 from Rs 480 per share PAT missed due to higher provisioning/ write-offs Expect NIMs to inch up 10 bps in FY20 CLSA on ICICI Bank Buy rating, target raised to Rs 500 from Rs 470 per share Normalisation of credit costs to aid an earnings recovery Expect slippage to stabilise around 2% Morgan Stanley on ICICI Bank Overweight call, target at Rs 530 per share Control of funding cost helped boost NIM 25 bps QoQ Aggressive write-offs sharply reduced stock of impaired loans Macquarie on ICICI Bank Retain outperform, target raised to Rs 465 from Rs 450 per share Q4 PAT missed estimates on higher provisions, write-offs PhillipCap on ICICI Bank PAT behind expectations mainly due to higher provisioning NII at Rs 7,620 crore better than estimate of Rs 7,170 crore on higher NIMs NIM increased owing to interest on I-T refund & interest received on NPA A/Cs Credit Suisse on ICICI Bank Outperform call, target at Rs 465 per share Well positioned to sustain pick-up in loan growth Expect RoEs to improve to 14% In FY20 Deutsche Bank on ICICI Bank Buy call, target at Rs 500 per share Path of recovery getting stronger; better visibility for >15% RoEs Expect better growth, higher NIMs & lower credit costs in FY21 Morgan Stanley on Bharti Airtel Q4 numbers marginally better than our forecasts Profitability improved in India wireless & Africa Weakness in enterprise & homes dragged cons profitability CLSA on Marico Buy rating, target at Rs 465 per share 8% domestic volume growth with an eight-quarter high gross margin Q4 performance stood out in every aspect vis-a-vis most peers Macquarie on Marico Maintain outperform, target raised to Rs 412 from Rs 394 per share EBITDA miss mainly on account of higher investments in A&P & higher promotions Cut earnings on account of lower pricing growth & higher A&P spend Morgan Stanley on Marico Upgrade to overweight, target at Rs 410 per share Forecast 17% FY19-21 earnings CAGR Expect a calibrated stock re-rating regardless of election outcome Jefferies on Marico Hold rating, target at Rs 380 per share Reported earnings below estimates but qualitatively not as bad Margin miss was due to higher ad spend to support new launches CLSA on Gujarat Gas Buy rating, target raised to Rs 195 from Rs 150 per share Miss on EBITDA but volume jump after court order drives upgrade Jefferies on Gujarat Gas Buy rating, target at Rs 185 per share EBITDA miss on lower than expected margin Outlook is strong with Morbi volumes now at 4.5 mmscm Asian markets trade lower: Asian shares wallowed near five-week lows on early Tuesday after U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to raise tariffs re-ignited worries about U.S.-China trade tensions while Japan's Nikkei opened down after a 10-day break. SGX Nifty: Trends on SGX Nifty indicate a positive start for the broader indices in India, a gain of 35 points or 40.50 percent. Nifty futures were trading around 11,697-level on the Singaporean Exchange. Wall Street ends lower: US stocks fell on Monday after President Donald Trump threatened to raise tariffs on Chinese goods, though they pared much of their early losses as healthcare shares rose and some investors remained confident of an eventual trade agreement. A manslaughter trial originally set for March as been rescheduled for Aug. 5 for a Dothan man charged with shooting his teenage friend. Fisher Corbin Shipes, 20, of Dothan was arrested May 21, 2018, in the fatal shooting of 19-year-old Christian Mullins. Shipes is currently out on bond. A Houston County grand jury indicted Shipes late last year, after which his attorney filed an application for youthful offender in November. Houston County Judge Todd Derrick denied the youthful offender application. Police responded shortly before 7 p.m. Saturday, May 21, 2018, to a report of a firearm assault in the 2100 block of Baker Trace and found Mullins with a shotgun wound. It was first reported that Mullins was shot by an unknown assailant with a shotgun. According to police, Shipes fired a shotgun at Mullins from across the room, striking the victim in the abdomen. Police have determined alcohol was involved. Dothan Police Investigator Curtis Stephens previously told the Dothan Eagle several of the people in the home were looking at the firearm before the shooting occurred. Almost 16 years after the crime, a Texas man charged for his role in the 2003 murder at a Dothan motel will stand trial on May 20. Douglas Tyrone Armstrong, 48, of Donna, Texas, was arrested Jan. 6 and charged with the 2003 murder of Debra Hopey Wilson. Wilson, 40, suffered a fatal injury from some type of blunt force trauma injury to the head at the Bee Line Motel on North Oates Street. A motel cleaning crew found Wilsons body. Armstrong was serving time on Death Row in the Texas prison system until recently when the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, in a 5-4 opinion, determined that Armstrongs defense counsel failed to conduct a constitutionally adequate investigation of mitigating evidence connected to his case. According to previous information obtained through the Texas Department of Criminal Justice website, Armstrong was condemned to death after conviction for killing a man by slashing his throat with a box cutter during a robbery on April 21, 2006. A Troy woman and a Marianna, Florida, woman face multiple charges in a large healthcare and mail fraud scheme involving an Alabama-based pharmaceutical company. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of Alabama in Birmingham announced the charges Monday, which stem from a multi-jurisdictional and multi-state investigation. Officials allege the owners and several employees of Haleyville-based Northside Pharmacy (doing business as Global Compounding Pharmacy) bilked insurance companies and governmental programs of more than $50 million through a variety of methods. The charges range from healthcare and mail fraud and related conspiracy charges to aggravated identity theft. Lori Dawn Edenfield, a 45-year-old nurse practitioner in the Florida Panhandle, faces the second-largest volume of charges at 32, while 40-year-old Lisa Holmes of Troy faces 12 counts. Holmes served as a district supervisor of sales representatives for Global. Perhaps the third times a charm for the City of Dothan with regard to its landfill expansion. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management published a letter Monday notifying it had approved Dothans permit to continue landfill operations and a modification that allows the city to expand the facility to 522.19 acres. This is at least the third time ADEM has granted the citys application for an expansion, but the others encountered a variety of legal challenges leading to a rescindment from ADEM the first time and another via the citys request. City officials have been planning a landfill expansion for most of the decade, initiating the purchase of extra land for the project in 2012. The current city landfill has been closed since May 2014 due to capacity concerns. Since then the city has transported its garbage collections to a transfer station, where the Waste Away Group has carried them to a landfill in Campbellton, Florida. The contract with Waste Away has cost the city between $70,000 and $80,000 per month for most of the duration of the deal, but the costs recently have approached $1 million per year, said Dothan Public Works Director Charles Metzger. In an attempt to lower euthanasia rates, the City of Dothan has created a partnership with PetSmart to use store space for adoptions. The Dothan City Commission approved the agreement, which comes at no cost to the city, during a Tuesday meeting. Dothan Police Department Chief Steve Parrish said the city has entered into this partnership before, but the contract lapsed at some point. The local PetSmart location in the Shops on the Circle retail subdivision provides greater visibility for some of the animals the Dothan Animal Shelter oversees, Parrish said. A lot of people go there to adopt animals, he said. Its a great program. In other action, the commission: >> Approved the rezoning of land located west of Murphy Mill Landing from A-C (agricultural-conservation) to R-2 (residential single-family, medium density) by a 5-1 vote. District 1 Commissioner Kevin Dorsey dissented; District 6 Commissioner David Crutchfield did not attend the meeting. >> Approved the rezoning of property owned by the Boys and Girls Club of the Wiregrass at 435 South Alice St. from L-I (light industrial) to B-2 (highway commercial). Alabamas Plastic Bag Protection Act has stalled in the state Senate, and regardless of ones feeling about the ubiquitous bag, thats a good thing. Like a dollar-store sack in the wind, its likely to drift away this session. The measure by Sen. Steve Livingston, a Scottsboro Republican, would prohibit local governments from banning single-use items like plastic bags, foam cups, and other containers that are found discarded and littering the landscape. Livingston argues that the state needs a uniform policy rather than a patchwork of local laws throughout the state. Home rule arguments aside, he has a point. Something that presents a problem in every area of the state should be addressed by state law. Problem is, it isnt and isnt likely to be anytime soon. Which brings us back to home rule. There are many communities in the state that are keenly aware of beautification coastal areas and lake communities come to mind because much of their economic activity is related to the amenities those communities have to offer. Theyd like to make their own decisions about whether to ban the use of these items that find their way to the beaches, shores, and roadsides. Its just one more reason why the states 1901 Constitution, which consolidates too much power in the statehouse, needs an overhaul. Heerlen, NL, 08 May 2019 18:45 CEST Royal DSM today held its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders at its corporate headquarters in Heerlen (Netherlands). Shareholders approved all resolutions on the agenda. The following resolutions were approved at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders: St. Louis Secondary School (Dundalk) was named Irelands Second Level Water School of the Year for their hard work on the Green-Schools Water theme, which is sponsored by Irish Water. On Wednesday, May 1 students from across Ireland were honoured for their efforts promoting water conservation and awareness at an award ceremony in Dublin. This is the sixth year of the awards and partnership, which has seen over 1,000 schools attend interactive Water Workshops and Walk for Water Events since 2013. Eamon Gallen, General Manager at Irish Water, said: Helping the next generation to understand that the importance of conserving water is a key part of our role in safeguarding Irelands water supply, so we are delighted to be partnering with An Taisces Green-Schools Water Theme for the sixth year running. We are always impressed by the creative and innovative ways that all of the schools come up with to save water and promote awareness both in their classrooms and in their communities. St. Louis Secondary School this years Secondary Water School of the Year promoted their work on the Water theme far beyond their school gates. By appointing a PRO, using social media and writing for the weekly staff newsletter their committee succeeded in raising awareness about water scarcity and usage, including the importance of monitoring for leaks. This reflected in a reduction of per person water usage from 92l to 3.6l per day. Co-ordinators of the Green Schools committee in St Louis Joanne Mallon, along with Lynne Rice are delighted with this result. The girls meet at lunchtime every week and everyone has specific tasks so they are all very focussed on their individual roles within the committee. One pupil for example has met with the caretaker every week and taken water meter readings to keep track of our usage. Another student was charged with sourcing leaky taps in the school and letting Tommy know about them. The girls also asked him to alter the flow in some taps which were running faster and using more water than was needed. The group is also involved in the Worldwise Global Schools and recently won a Global Passport so it really has been a successful and rewarding year for the group. It is up to all of us to raise awareness about and care for our planet. If we dont we may not have a future or our children might not. Its so important to be environmentally-aware, and the Green Schools Committee in St Louis has been really active this year, said Ugochi Enyoazu, one of the members of the committee. We were able to raise funds to dig a well for a village in Africa, and we installed a water harvester in the new courtyard. Its been an exciting year, continued Laiba Wajahat. Raising awareness is key. Some of the TYs did a 3km Solidarity Walk to gain an understanding of the difficulties girls in particular face in developing countries. They leave school just so they can become water bearers for their families, said Lynne Rice. One of the big issues in the media at the moment is single-use plastics. The school has installed a water dispenser and students are encouraged to bring their own bottles from home to refill. A plastic audit was carried out and the results shared so people could be more aware of just how much they are using. Dundalk councillor Anne Campbell has expressed her disappointment today, after her motion to rescind the twinning between Dundalk and Pikeville in Kentucky was defeated at yesterday's Dundalk Municipal District May meeting. Dundalk Municipal District has been twinned with Pikeville, a town in Kentucky, since 2015. The twinning of the towns links Dundalk to an area with a population of seven thousand in Kentucky, where Dundalk billionaire late Pearse Lyons once founded his Alltech Brewing business. Cllr Campbell tabled a motion, at the last municipal district meeting before the local elections, to dissolve the twinning between the two towns as a way of saving much needed funds for the local authority. A number of councillor's gave their views on the twinning of the two towns at the meeting, including Cllr Marianne Butler, one of just two councillors who voted against the twinning of the towns in 2015. Cllr Butler spoke at the meeting of Alltech's subsequent decision to open up a brewery in Dundalk and said she considered the 5,000 set aside for the twinning of the two towns was an appropriate amount. We've got anything [we have spent] back 100 times over at this stage, she added. Dundalk Carlingford councillor Peter Savage also went against the motion, saying that he believed the motion was small minded and pointed to the arrival of Alltech in Dundalk, saying, getting a factory here within three years is great. Supporting his party colleague's motion, Cllr Tomas Sharkey cast doubt on the benefits of the twinning, suggesting that it was the work done by the likes of the IDA and DkIT that brought the jobs to Dundalk. The vote on the motion was tied with six votes for and six against the motion, with Cllr Maria Doyle abstaining from the vote. Cathaoirleach Conor Keelan used his casting vote to reject the motion. Speaking to the Dundalk Democrat today, Cllr Campbell said: Im disappointed with the result of the motion, but Im glad all the issues are how twinning is picked, run and assessed have had the opportunity to be debated and by those who were opposed, a lot of them had reservations about how twinning is assessed and the use of it, and while I am disappointed that the motion did not pass, I am glad that I got the opportunity to have this debate. An empowering story of a woman who decides to take back control on her 60th birthday will be staged in Dundalk this month. Coinciding with the annual Bealtaine Festival, Ireland's national celebration of the arts and creativity as we age, An Grianan presents The Experience of Being by Carol Moore. Following dates in across the island of Ireland, the one-woman play comes to An Tain Arts Centre for its penultimate tour date on Friday, 31 May. The Experience of Being is a funny, absorbing and moving play about dwindling power, how to challenge it and why ageism makes growing older far harder than it needs to be. The play straddles two worlds. One is memory where conflict, religion and power from many sources limited the choices of girls and young women growing up in Belfast, while in the present Carol is holding up a mirror up to societys obsession with youthfulness and where power can so easily be stripped from older citizens. It is an original, funny and absorbing interdisciplinary production which uses text/physicality/music to tell a powerful story that connects and resonates with a 50+ age-group but also engages with audiences across all age-groups. Carol has maintained a freelance career across four decades in acting, theatre directing, film directing and drama facilitation. Her acting career includes work with many leading Northern Irish companies including Charabanc, the Lyric, Tinderbox, Brassneck and Kabosh as well as international touring to North America, the former Soviet Union, Germany, South Africa and Rwanda. Its a bit of a surprise when you arrive at sixty and are suddenly told you are old. Not told formally; a letter doesnt come in the post, but you know you have reached a watershed in your life because society has marked this moment as the beginning of a persons decline. It is accepted as fact, as the norm. I felt I needed to challenge that myth by writing my one-woman play The Experience of Being, she said. Carol said she never really considered the aging process until she arrived at what people like to term this significant birthday. Because somehow it is supposed to signal fragility at this stage of our lives. It is blatantly not true. There is no stereotype of an older person, any more than there is of people in their 20s or 30s. Its unthinkable to assume they are all alike. Yet ageism has crept into our psyche and into our vocabulary and we, (and I include myself here) we have normalised it, rather than challenging it. As part of this project which has been supported through a Major Individual Artist Award by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and the National Lottery, I have very much enjoyed interviewing a number of people aged between 60+ and 95 to see how different their experiences of the aging process were. This journey makes me want to shout out loud that the older person you sit beside on the bus or stand behind in the post office, may have a life of experiences and adventures that you could only dream of, but we never think of asking them to share their memories with us and sometimes not even within our own families. In my sixties, I am enjoying my own experience of being because you never know how long you have until the journey ends. Written and performed by Carol Moore, The Experience of Being is directed by Patrick J.OReilly with development choreography by Oona Doherty, music score by Conor Mitchell and saxophone by Kevin Lawless. An Grianan presents The Experience of Being by Carol Moore at An Tain Arts Centre, Dundalk on Friday, 31 May at 8pm. More information and tickets available at www.antain.ie or by calling the centre on Tel 042 933 2332. Image Workshop on improving the water quality of the Moron river (photo: Deltares). Community involvement An important aspect of the development of the plan will be the involvement of stakeholders, including the communities of the city districts of Moron and Hurlingham that border the Moron river. The first workshop was organised to make this happen. This strategy will also be based on an integrated approach that includes urban planning, solid waste management and models for sustainable financing. Dutch research institute Deltares will scientifically assist the process, using the D-Emission model to assess a baseline for pollution loads and the effectiveness of programmes of measures under different scenarios. The plan is expected to be ready by July. Xem them (Construction) - On December 3, in Hanoi, the Ministry of Construction held a conference to appraise the General Plan for Construction Project of Cao Bang Border Gate Economic Zone to 2040. ... Tin bai cuoi cung Khong con du lieu e load ROSWELL The Eastern New Mexico University board of regents will provide an update on ENMUs efforts to build a new presidential residence during Fridays meeting on the Roswell campus. Regent Terry Othick told The News that ENMU released its Request for Proposal (RFP) for architectural services related to the residence on Monday, with bids due by June 5. Othick said the RFP included general guidelines for architects that the building, not to exceed 3,500 square feet, should include both private residence space and public meeting space to host guests. Othick said a committee of ENMU regents and university officials will review the proposals and select an architect fairly quickly after the June 5 deadline. He said more weight will be placed on the architects designs and capabilities, rather than cost. ENMU received $650,000 from the Legislature during the most recent session to put toward construction of a new presidents residence. Other items on the agenda for Fridays meeting, scheduled for 1 p.m. in the Campus Union Building multi-purpose room on the Roswell campus, include: n The board will vote on the Portales campus updated five-year capital plan. The top prioritized projects for the upcoming fiscal year, in order, are phase two of renovations to Roosevelt Hall to be funded by the 2018 general obligation bond at $8 million with a $1 million match from ENMU, a $7.5 million renovation to Harding Hall to be funded by the 2022 GO bond, at the earliest, and $750,000 for new transmitters for the campus broadcast station KENW, for which the university received funding from the Legislature during the most recent session. n The meeting will be followed by an executive session to discuss personnel matters and threatened or pending litigation. By the Staff of The News Former Eastern New Mexico News columnist Wendel Sloan has received multiple awards from the National Federation of Press Women and New Mexico Press Women for work published last year. The News also won the High Point Sweepstakes Award from NMPW for organizations, due to individual awards captured by Sloan and columnist Patti Dobson. Sloan, who retired from Eastern New Mexico University in 2018 and now lives in Mesquite, Texas, was honored for column writing, feature writing and his book, Kill a Moose for Jesus, a collection of columns published in The News. Dobson was honored by NM Press Women for column writing. Sloans national awards included a second place for his feature on ENMU sociologist Chelsea Starr and a third place for column writing. In the state competition, he won first place for the Starr feature, for a feature on retired Clovis High School Band Director Norvil Howell, and for column writing. In all, Sloan received 10 awards from NM Press Women in addition to the two national honors. CLOVIS While communities in eastern New Mexico grapple with addressing a chemical contamination plume stemming from Cannon Air Force Base, its worthwhile to have a bigger picture of what is in fact a nationwide issue. Working with a health research institute at Northeastern University, the non-profit Environmental Working Group on Monday declared in a news release that the known extent of contamination of American communities with the toxic fluorinated compounds known as PFAS continues to grow at an alarming rate. In a news release, EWG detailed how new data may represent just the tip of a toxic iceberg, with publicly known pollution impacting public water systems, military bases, military and civilian airports, industrial plants, dumps and firefighter training sites across the country. A map updated in March documented 610 locations in 43 states (which) are known to be contaminated, a significant leap from just 172 sites in 40 states recorded some nine months earlier. EWGs news release characterized the PFAS situation as a complex problem rooted in the failure of the federal regulatory system, and urged the Environmental Protection Agency to set a truly health-protective legal limit for all PFAS chemicals. Cannon is one of 117 military sites reflected on the interactive map, available online at https://www.ewg.org/interactive-maps/2019_pfas_contamination/map/. WAKEFIELD In the second podcast of our new series, Mike Schragger speaks to Edwin Keh, CEO of the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles & Apparel (HKRITA), about his views on how the fashion and apparel sector is still playing catch-up with other industries when it comes to breakthrough, disruptive technologies. Listen to the full podcast HERE. A cruise ship reportedly owned by the Church of Scientology has been quarantined in the port of St. Lucia after a case of measles was confirmed on board, health officials said Wednesday. There are almost 300 passengers and crew on the ship, which has the same name as a ship owned by the church, NBC News reported. The ship has been quarantined in the port of the Caribbean island nation since Monday, the same day that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that there have been more than 700 measles cases in the U.S. in 2019, the highest number in 25 years. The ship's doctor confirmed that one female crew member has a case of measles, and public health officials are concerned she could have spread it to other people on board who may not be vaccinated. "Because of the risk of potential infection, not just from the confirmed measles case but from other persons who may be on the boat at the time, we thought it prudent to make a decision not to allow anyone to disembark," St. Lucia Chief Medical Officer Dr. Merlene Fredericks-James said in a statement reported by The New York Times. St. Lucia cannot stop the boat from departing, which it is scheduled to do on Thursday, NBC reported. Health officials did not give the name of the vessel, but St. Lucia Coast Guard Sargent Victor Theodore said it was called "Freewinds." The Church of Scientology owns and operates a 440-foot cruise ship by that name, and Theodore identified the quarantined ship as the one pictured on the church's website. The Church of Scientology did not respond to requests for comment from NBC, CNN or The New York Times. While some high-profile Scientologists have spoken out against vaccines, the church itself has no official stance on vaccination, The New York Times reported. "Scientologists are pretty independent people, though I will say this: they tend to do a little more research, perhaps, on the effect of various medical procedures or whatever," President of the church in New York John Carmichael told Beliefnet in 2006. "They make their own decisions, but those aren't decisions that the church tries to influence in any way." St. Lucia has authority to quarantine the vessel under the island nation's quarantine and public health acts, CNN reported. Quarantine is also a legal option in every U.S. state. "Quarantine is a word that people respond to very strongly, but it's actually one of the strongest tools in the public health tool kit," Director of the Center for Global Health Science and Security at Georgetown University Rebecca Katz told CNN. "But because it curtails civil liberties, most public health officials are very wary to utilize it." School district leaders in 2016 were seemingly apocalyptic once they realized that a tiny provision buried in the Every Student Succeeds Act would by summer 2020 require them to report to the public how they divvy up funds among their schools. Putting a big spotlight on school-level-spending amountsrather than the more general, but widely known districtwide per-pupil averageswould pit school communities against each other, they warned, confuse people about what drives education costs, and fuel those who argue districts dont spend enough in the classroom. But in at least 13 states where education departments have in the past two months started reporting school-by-school spending amounts a year ahead of schedule, including in Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming, most of those administrators fears have yet to come to fruition. So far, with exceptions such as New York state and North Carolina, theres been little media coverage of spending disparities between schools, and few school boards appear to be using the numbers to craft their budgets for the coming school year. In fact, frustrated civil rights and school funding supporters are pushing state education officials to better publicize the school spending amounts and urging journalists and local advocacy groups to do their own detailed reporting on the newly available data. We know that inequities in funding occurs at both levels, within districts and across districts, said Ary Amerikaner, the vice president for P-12 policy, practice, and research for the Education Trust, a civil rights advocacy group. Communities need to see if theyre getting shortchanged relative to their schools in a district. Thats a conversation they need to have with board members, and thats a conversation they need to have with state legislatures. Federal Mandates States are required to have school-spending numbers published by June 2020. Pending guidance, which closed for public comments last week, would let states combine state and local dollars in reporting how much they spend, rather than parse them out, something many states said early on was a technically difficult thing to do. And the proposed guidance doesnt urge states to necessarily make school spending numbers comparable between districts, something Amerikaner critiqued as defeating the purpose of the law. Marguerite Roza, a school finance expert who is working with states through a Financial Transparency Working Group associated with Georgetown Universitys Edunomics, a school finance think tank, said during a recent webinar that most states seem to be on track to meet ESSAs requirements in that area by next year. Meanwhile, she pointed out, several states are still struggling to comply with some components of the law. When ESSA was passed in December 2015, the fiscal reporting provision got little notice and drew little debate. Republicans saw it as a way to push for more fiscal transparency and accountability of public school spending. Democrats saw it as a way to highlight how they think state and local officials spend public resources in an unfair way between minority student groups. But as state superintendents and administration-association groups started explaining the new requirement to district officials, there was widespread alarm by district chief financial officers and superintendents that the reporting of school spending would wreak political havoc. While the legal and political fight over school funding disparities has historically pitted urban, suburban, and rural districts against each other, school funding experts argue that there are strikingand little-knowndifferences in spending from school to school within districts themselves. Reviewing the Data School-by-school spending numbers reported in a number of states so far bears that out. A recent Education Week analysis of school spending in Rhode Island, one of the 13 states that have released their school spending numbers, showed that the state spent an average of $16,000 to educate each of its students in the 2015-16 school year. But in the Cumberland school district, for example, Ashton Elementary School spent $15,000 per student, while Garvin Memorial Elementary in the same district spent $10,000 per student. In addition to political sensitivity, figuring out school spending numbers and a way to display them to the public can be technically difficult. Theres often no clear-cut definition of what a school cost is versus what an overhead cost is. And states have had a difficult time figuring out how to divvy up costs such as transportation and school lunch between schools. A review of the state report cards that have been published in the past two months shows that some states, such as Rhode Island and Washington, report details like how much schools spend on teaching, textbooks, and curriculum while others, such as Delaware and Massachusetts only report overall spending numbers. Louisiana displays PDF files of school spending numbers and Georgia displays the spending numbers on an Excel spreadsheet. Many states, such as Colorado and Wyoming, have created separate websites for school spending numbers. But districts often have different, and sometimes outdated, systems to track school funding. South Carolina bought new school finance software in order for districts to report school spending numbers (they have yet to report their numbers), and Illinois internally built a new data submission tool for districts to comply with the requirement. Slow-Building Impact In places where some of the newly detailed data have been reported and publicized by the states department of education, the numbers have begun to gain some traction with local media. In April, Newsday looked at New Yorks figures and found that administrative spending by districts in the state will top more than $1 billion this school year, and amounted to 10 percent of overall school spending costs, a figure that enraged local anti-tax advocates. North Carolinas education department last week put out a press release pointing out its own conclusions after analyzing school spending numbers. Among its findings: The state spends, on average, $42 on textbooks for each student, and teachers make $3,000 more than the average median household income across the state. Teachers this month plan to protest in the state capital over low pay. You can now see how money is spent statewide and in your county, said state schools Superintendent Mark Johnson. This is a powerful way to gain insight into North Carolinas public school funding, and we are happy to bring it to you. As states and districts grapple with ways to collect and display school spending data, advocates are urging the public to get more engaged with the process. I hope that the numbers will be used to drive conversations about inequities and the way we resource and fund our schools, said Amerikaner of the Education Trust, which analyzed New Yorks school spending numbers last year after the state made the numbers publicly available. For that to happen, the data needs to be reported in a way thats understandable, usable, and widely distributed. Librarian Maya Riser-Kositsky contributed to this article. Tuesday, April 30th was the last special education for general education teachers class of my first semester instructing undergraduate preservice educators at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Over the preceding 14 weeks, my 27 studentsmostly elementary education majorshad learned about students with disabilities, Positive Behavior and Intervention Supports, and ways to teach students with different learning needs. The students were seeing the topics we talked about in class play out in their own student-teaching experiencesstudents with severe behavior concerns, teachers collaborating closely with school support staff, how a childs disruptive home life can impact academics. The course content could get heavy, but on the final day of class, the vibe was good. Ten minutes into class, four students huddled around a phone. Whats up? I asked. There is an active shooter on campus, they replied. I leaned my elbows on the podium. Who is saying that? Twitter, they answered. As if choreographed, students across my class looked at their computers and phones. At Kennedy. By the library. Two students in the back of the classroom gathered their things and ran out. Sorry! one called as she ran out. I looked at my phone. No university update. Ill be honest, I told the remaining students. I dont know exactly what to do here, so if you feel like you need to leave, you can. I will stay until we know more. Before I could decide if I would try to continue teaching, my PowerPoint was taken over by the schools threat system announcing: Run. Hide. Fight. Stay where you are. Secure your location. Wait for more information. One of the first things I did in my classroom was figure out how to escape if there was an active shooter." Seven years earlier, I was on the leadership team at a school in Chicago. After the Sandy Hook shooting, I helped plan our campus response plan for an active shooter. In my four years in the classroom prior, I had never thought about a shooter on campus. I had worried more about fire drills and, in the Midwest, tornadoes. When I re-entered teaching in 2018, after five years consulting, writing, and earning my doctorate degree, there had been more than 200 school shootings . One of the first things I did in my classroom was figure out how to escape if there was an active shooter. So, when we gathered what was happening last Tuesdaythere was a shooter in a building across campus, shots had been firedmy first thought was: Well, I guess this is my turn. In a chemistry-lecture-hall-turned-education-classroom, my students and I barricaded the unlockable doors with the only movable items: a lectern and table. We turned the lights off and sat against the walls. Students faces were lit by phone screens filled with texts from family and friends, Twitter updates, and news feeds. For the first hour the information was spotty. There was one shooter, maybe two? The police were looking for someone with explosives. They were running through the woods behind campus. The library was being evacuated. Multiple people had been shot. Seven-ish were wounded. The police were outside. In our room, there was an uneasy calm. Dont worry, Dr. Cleaver, one student told me, my high school had an active shooter once, I know what to do. I guess this is just what we should expect, right? said another, going into teaching? One student expressed frustration at how panicked some of her classmates seemed. They are going to be teachers, she said, they have to know how to stay calm in this kind of thing. One mentioned an active-shooter training she had participated in just hours earlier at an elementary school. Another shared the experience of being in a school as a volunteer tutor during a lockdown and not knowing if it was real or a drill. These preservice teachers were all excited to be put in charge of their own classrooms. They did not yet have a roster of their own, but they were deeply invested in the children at their student teaching sites. They desperately wanted to make a difference. They spoke honestly about their concerns teaching diverse groups of students and already had individual students that kept them up at night. We hadnt talked about school shootings in class. When they had mentioned feeling overwhelmed with the job of teaching, their comments involved supporting students with behavior concerns, managing their time, handling parents. After two-and-a-half hours of lockdown, we left the building, walked past a line of police cars to the parking deck, and drove home. In the days following, similar to any other class, I played my class over in my mind. Usually after class, I reflected on how I had presented information: Was I clear? Did the students understand? Should I reteach anything? On May 1st, I wondered: Should I have responded differently? Should we all have left immediately? Did I do the right thing? Did I say the right thing? Did I make them feel safe? I dont know if one active-shooter lockdown will change how these teachers feel about working in education. But, I could forgive them if they decided that they did not want to go into a profession that assumes first-responder status. They may very well decide they do not want to have to shelter in place with a class of 5-year-olds who are theirs to protect, with less know-how, communication, and security than we had in our college campus room. I could understand if they dont want to go into a job where, when you are told to run, hide, or fight, you cant run home to your own families because you are in charge of a classroom of children. Yes, teaching is one of those professions that assumes a lot. But, I wonder, when will it assume too much? Heathrow Air Route AXED The Isle of Man to London Heathrow route is to cease on October 26th (2019). FlyBe has published their Winter Timetable and the Manx route to the UK's biggest air hub has been axed. Energy FM News contacted FlyBe who told us: "Flybe is closely monitoring customer demand for this new route added to its 2019 Summer schedule, to assess the possibility of exploring any opportunities which may arise that could support a longer term commitment at some point in the future. We do not know what 'some point in the future' actually means, but for now, the long awaited flagship destination of London Heathrow is on borrowed time and is almost certainly not going to feature in the Winter Timetable, beyond October 26th. EU should take action on Israeli-Palestinian conflict The Palestinian UN ambassador said that the EU and Russia need to take action to save a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict if the long-awaited US peace plan doesn't work. The European Union and Russia should take action to save a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict if the US peace plan does not lead to two independent nations, Palestines ambassador to the UN said Tuesday. "THEY HAVE TO ACT ON IT" Riyad Mansour said he told EU officials that support for a two-state solution is appreciated, but it is not sufficient ,they have to act on it". Last month, Donald Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, said Washington's Middle East peace plan, billed 'the Deal of the Century', would be revealed after the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. While Kushner provided no details as to what the plan entails, he said "there will be tough compromises for both sides" and that past efforts have not worked, referencing the two-state solution, a long-held framework for a solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Foreign ministers of the Arab League have rejected the US plan, saying that without giving the legal rights of the Palestinians, these kinds of plans will never bring comprehensive and lasting peace in the Middle East. Mansour said if the US plan does not end with two independent nations Palestine and Israel then the EU should take action against it to save the two-state framework. The European Union could call for an international conference on the basis of the global consensus supporting a two-state solution "to see how we can open ways to move forward", Mansour told reporters at the UN. He also said that European countries particularly France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Belgium and Luxembourg could offer their support by recognizing the state of Palestine. In the runup to Washingtons peace plan, Trump has moved to isolate Palestinians. Last year, the US cut all its funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), which provides critical aid to Palestinian refugees. It also unilaterally recognized Jerusalem as Israels capital and closed the Palestinian Liberation Organizations Washington office, which served as the de-facto Palestinian embassy in the US Mansour said Russia could also host an international conference in Moscow, since it is on the UN Security Council and Palestinians are already in talks with Moscow. Oil prices rise amid US sanctions The United States reimposed sanctions on Iran in November last year, demanding all countries stop importing oil from the country. Oil prices rose on Wednesday as US sanctions on crude exporters Iran and Venezuela as well as ongoing supply cuts by producers have left markets tight just as crude imports to China rose to a record for April. GLOBAL MARKETS REMAIN TIGHT US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $61.96 per barrel at 0658 GMT on Wednesday, 56 cents, or 0.9 percent, above their last settlement. Brent crude oil futures were at $70.31 per barrel, 43 cents, or 0.6 percent, above their last close. Iran has said it will defy the sanctions and continue to export oil. It has also said it stop implementing some commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal if it is not allowed to continue exporting oil. Most analysts expect Irans crude export to fall to little more than 500,000 bpd, down from around 1 million bpd in April, as governments largely bow to US pressure. The sanctions come amid already tight supply as the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has been withholding output since the start of the year in order to prop up prices. OPEC is due to meet in June at its headquarters in Vienna, Austria, to decide its output policy for the rest of the year. South Africans begin voting in general elections Polling stations opened at 7 a.m. local time (0600GMT) and will close at 9 p.m. local time (2000GMT). South Africans on Wednesday morning started casting their votes in the countrys 6th general elections. THE VOTING PROCESS HAS BEGUN I voted because I want to see change and a better life for all South Africans, an elderly voter told Anadolu Agency after casting her vote in Soweto, south of the countrys largest city Johannesburg. According to the countrys electoral commission, some 26,7 million South Africans are eligible to vote in the election 2019, the year when the nation celebrates the 25th anniversary of its first democratic elections. There are about 22,000 voting stations open countrywide, where voters will cast their ballots to elect national and provincial assemblies representatives. Mmusi Maimane, leader of the main opposition party Democratic Alliance, cast his vote in Dobsonville in Soweto. South Africa's opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Mmusi Maimane A record 48 political parties are participating in the elections, but the main contest is expected to be between three ruling Africa National Congress, Democratic Alliance and the Economic Freedom Fighters. ANC leader and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to vote at about 11 a.m. local time (1000GMT) in Soweto. ANC leader and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa The major issues affecting South Africans are unemployment, crimes and corruption among others. According to the electoral commission, the counting of votes will begin after 9 p.m. local time (2000GMT). Talks on N. Ireland power-sharing planned The talks started in Stormont a Northern Irish Executive complex in Belfast after more than two years since the latest election in the UK region. The leaders of Northern Irelands political parties and representatives of British and Irish governments have resumed talks to restore a power-sharing regional government on Tuesday. LEADERS CAME TOGETHER TO STRENGTHEN RELATIONSHIPS The politicians held a short round-table meeting of the new process prompted by the UK and Irish governments following the murder of a journalist in Londonderry in April. Britains Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley and Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney presented an outlined format of talks to resolve the stalemate. Five leaders and representatives of two governments will meet once a week and five working groups will focus on the key disputes. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Arlene Foster said she would enter the talks with a good heart and with determination to find a solution. Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said her party was ready to do the business. UKs Bradley warned the parties, saying none of us should be under any illusion about this. There are some very significant challenges and this is not going to be easy, she said, adding she would not comment on the issue any more during the process. Britains Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley All of the parties and their political leaders were very constructive for the initial meeting today, but clearly weve a lot of work to do, Coveney said. Irish Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney Since the March 2017 legislative assembly election, Irish nationalists of the Sinn Fein party and pro-British unionists under the DUP have been unable to find common ground on divisive issues such as the introduction of an Irish language act and legacy issues inherited from decades of violence popularly known as The Troubles. The previous local administration collapsed in January 2017 with the resignation of Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness over a botched energy saving deal. McGuinness died shortly after and was given a state funeral. The DUP lost support in the March 2017 election, but managed to remain the biggest party with a single-seat margin in the Northern Ireland Assembly over Sinn Fein. US: One killed as students open fire at Colorado school As the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting approached, another school shooting in Colorado left 1 student dead and 8 injured. Two male students armed with handguns burst into a Denver-area school and opened fire on Tuesday, killing one classmate and wounding eight before being taken into custody. THEY OPENED FIRE IN TWO CLASSROOMS Two surviving victims of the attack at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, a Denver suburb, remained in serious condition, medical officials said. Others were stable or had been discharged from hospital. An 18-year-old male was pronounced dead at the scene, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said a short time later. Two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school, and engaged students in two separate locations, Spurlock said. He said in a brief interview that the suspects, each armed with a handgun, opened fire in two separate classrooms. Devon Erickson, 18, was named as one of the suspects, while the other was identified only as a juvenile. The school serves students from kindergarten through to 12th grade. The shooting occurred less than a month after the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre in nearby Littleton, about 5 miles (8 km) from the Highlands Ranch school. Two Columbine students killed 13 people there in 1999 before committing suicide in what remains one of the deadliest school shootings in US history. US organizes armed clashes with Iran, Zarif says Iranian Foreign Minister stated that Tehran does not want a war with any country but will defend its national interests. Some officials in the US administration want to start a war with Iran, but it would be suicide, Irans foreign minister said Tuesday. "IRAN'S PATIENCE HAS ITS LIMITS" "Apparently, those who launched the US-Iraq war in 2003 are aspiring to unleash another war, and this time with Iran. This will mean that they are committing suicide," Mohammad Javad Zarif told Russian state news agency RIA Novosti prior to his visit to Moscow. He said Tehran does not want a war with any country, but if the US organizes armed clashes with Iran, the country will defend its national interests "with all its strength". Asked if Tehran will continue to adhere to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, Zarif said "Iran's patience has its limits". He said if the European Union fails to help Iran withstand US sanctions, the country could review the agreement. One of the important issues right now is the establishment of the Special Trade and Finance Instrument (STFI) between Iran and Europe, called SATMA in Persian a company registered by Tehran in a bid to speed up trade exchanges between Iran and Europe. The European special payment channel the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX) will permit financial transactions that bypass US sanctions, Zarif said, adding a mechanism similar to INSTEX can be implemented with other countries, including Russia and Turkey. According to Zarif, Iran is able to sell its oil despite the current sanctions. "Iran will be able to overcome American sanctions. Many countries have declared their readiness to trade with Iran. Iran and the EU are on the threshold of an agreement that, despite the return of unilateral US sanctions, will make it possible to sell Iranian oil and receive income from it," he added. Popular ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft were the biggest contributors to increased traffic congestion in San Francisco from 2010 to 2016, according to a new study of traffic patterns in the city. The findings, which contradict claims that these services alleviate road congestion, could be of interest to transportation planners and policy makers grappling with how to regulate ride-sharing services. The rise of transportation network companies (TNCs) such as Uber has revolutionized the landscape of transportation in urban areas. TNCs have grown rapidly in recent years - ridership doubled between 2014 and 2016 in New York - and now represent a popular alternative to operating private vehicles. Although these services are often billed as solutions to traffic congestion, research into their effects on roadway conditions has yielded mixed or inconclusive results. To answer this question, Gregory Erhardt and colleagues gathered data on TNC volumes, pick-ups and drop-offs from the two largest TNCs and modeled their effects on travel times and roadway conditions in San Francisco from 2010 to 2016. Their analysis yielded a surprising finding: far from reducing traffic congestion, TNCs were the largest contributor to growing traffic in the city. Specifically, they found that weekday vehicle hours of delay - the difference in travel time in congested vs. free-flow conditions - increased by 62% and that average speeds decreased by 13% in the time period. In contrast, in a simulated model without TNCs, weekday vehicle hours of delay increased by only 22% and average speeds decreased by 4% in the city. Interestingly, TNCs were also linked to less reliable travel times, which led travelers to buffer their estimated transit times if they wish to arrive at their destination on-time. Erhardt et al. say that future studies should examine the impacts of TNCs on traffic in other cities or less dense environments, as well as tease out the effects of uncontrolled factors such as tourism. ### WASHINGTON--Radioactive carbon released into the atmosphere from 20th-century nuclear bomb tests has reached the deepest parts of the ocean, new research finds. A new study in AGU's journal Geophysical Research Letters finds the first evidence of radioactive carbon from nuclear bomb tests in muscle tissues of crustaceans that inhabit Earth's ocean trenches, including the Mariana Trench, home to the deepest spot in the ocean. Organisms at the ocean surface have incorporated this "bomb carbon" into the molecules that make up their bodies since the late 1950s. The new study finds crustaceans in deep ocean trenches are feeding on organic matter from these organisms when it falls to the ocean floor. The results show human pollution can quickly enter the food web and make its way to the deep ocean, according to the study's authors. "Although the oceanic circulation takes hundreds of years to bring water containing bomb [carbon] to the deepest trench, the food chain achieves this much faster," said Ning Wang, a geochemist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Guangzhou, China, and lead author of the new study. "There's a very strong interaction between the surface and the bottom, in terms of biologic systems, and human activities can affect the biosystems even down to 11,000 meters, so we need to be careful about our future behaviors," said Weidong Sun, a geochemist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Qingdao, China, and co-author of the new study. "It's not expected, but it's understandable, because it's controlled by the food chain." The results also help scientists better understand how creatures have adapted to living in the nutrient-poor environment of the deep ocean, according to the authors. The crustaceans they studied live for an unexpectedly long time by having extremely slow metabolisms, which the authors suspect may be an adaptation to living in this impoverished and harsh environment. Creating radioactive particles Carbon-14 is radioactive carbon that is created naturally when cosmic rays interact with nitrogen in the atmosphere. Carbon-14 is much less abundant than non-radioactive carbon, but scientists can detect it in nearly all living organisms and use it to determine the ages of archeological and geological samples. Thermonuclear weapons tests conducted during the 1950s and 1960s doubled the amount of carbon-14 in the atmosphere when neutrons released from the bombs reacted with nitrogen in the air. Levels of this "bomb carbon" peaked in the mid-1960s and then dropped when atmospheric nuclear tests stopped. By the 1990s, carbon-14 levels in the atmosphere had dropped to about 20 percent above their pre-test levels. This bomb carbon quickly fell out of the atmosphere and mixed into the ocean surface. Marine organisms that have lived in the decades since this time have used bomb carbon to build molecules within their cells, and scientists have seen elevated levels of carbon-14 in marine organisms since shortly after the bomb tests began. Life at the bottom of the sea The deepest parts of the ocean are the hadal trenches, those areas where the ocean floor is more than 6 kilometers (4 miles) below the surface. These areas form when one tectonic plate subducts beneath another. Creatures that inhabit these trenches have had to adapt to the intense pressures, extreme cold, and lack of light and nutrients. In the new study, researchers wanted to use bomb carbon as a tracer for organic material in hadal trenches to better understand the organisms that live there. Wang and her colleagues analyzed amphipods collected in 2017 from the Mariana, Mussau, and New Britain Trenches in the tropical West Pacific Ocean, as far down as 11 kilometers (7 miles) below the surface. Amphipods are a type of small crustacean that live in the ocean and get food from scavenging dead organisms or consuming marine detritus. Surprisingly, the researchers found carbon-14 levels in the amphipods' muscle tissues were much greater than levels of carbon-14 in organic matter found in deep ocean water. They then analyzed the amphipods' gut contents and found those levels matched estimated carbon-14 levels from samples of organic material taken from the surface of the Pacific Ocean. This suggests the amphipods are selectively feeding on detritus from the ocean surface that falls to the ocean floor. Adapting to the deep ocean environment The new findings allow researchers to better understand the longevity of organisms that inhabit hadal trenches and how they have adapted to this unique environment. Interestingly, the researchers found the amphipods living in these trenches grow larger and live longer than their counterparts in shallower waters. Amphipods that live in shallow water typically live for less than two years and grow to an average length of 20 millimeters (0.8 inches). But the researchers found amphipods in the deep trenches that were more than 10 years old and had grown to 91 millimeters (3.6 inches) long. The study authors suspect the amphipods' large size and long life are likely the byproducts of their evolution to living in the environment of low temperatures, high pressure and a limited food supply. They suspect the animals have slow metabolisms and low cell turnover, which allows them to store energy for long periods of time. The long life time also suggests pollutants can bioaccumulate in these unusual organisms. "Besides the fact that material mostly comes from the surface, the age-related bioaccumulation also increases these pollutant concentrations, bringing more threat to these most remote ecosystems," Wang said. The new study shows deep ocean trenches are not isolated from human activities, Rose Cory, an associate professor of earth and environmental sciences at the University of Michigan who was not involved in the new research, said in an email. The research shows that by using "bomb" carbon, scientists can detect the fingerprint of human activity in the most remote, deepest depths of the ocean, she added. The authors also use "bomb" carbon to show that the main source of food for these organisms is carbon produced in the surface ocean, rather than more local sources of carbon deposited from nearby sediments, Cory said. The new study also suggests that the amphipods in the deep trenches have adapted to the harsh conditions in deep trenches, she added. "What is really novel here is not just that carbon from the surface ocean can reach the deep ocean on relatively short timescales, but that the 'young' carbon produced in the surface ocean is fueling, or sustaining, life in the deepest trenches," Cory said. ### Founded in 1919, AGU is a not-for-profit scientific society dedicated to advancing Earth and space science for the benefit of humanity. We support 60,000 members, who reside in 135 countries, as well as our broader community, through high-quality scholarly publications, dynamic meetings, our dedication to science policy and science communications, and our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, as well as many other innovative programs. AGU is home to the award-winning news publication Eos, the Thriving Earth Exchange, where scientists and community leaders work together to tackle local issues, and a headquarters building that represents Washington, D.C.'s first net zero energy commercial renovation. We are celebrating our Centennial in 2019. #AGU100 Notes for Journalists This paper is freely available through May 31. Journalists and public information officers (PIOs) can download a PDF copy of the article by clicking on this link: https://agupubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1029/2018GL081514 Journalists and PIOs may also request a copy of the final paper by emailing Liza Lester at llester@agu.org. Please provide your name, the name of your publication, and your phone number. Neither the paper nor this press release is under embargo. Multimedia associated with this press release may be downloaded here: https://aguorg.sharepoint.com/:f:/s/newsroom/EiqonQoZr-tKp0bDXmynsncB2oXPMHH16MbWCF_txY-5aw Authors: Ning Wang, Chengde Shen, Ping Ding, Snyuan Zhu, Weixi Yi, Zhiquing Yu, Zhongli Sha and Mei Mi, State Key Laboratory of Isotope Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China Weidong Sun, Laboratory for Marine Mineral Resources, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China, and Center of Deep Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, China Lisheng He, Institute of Deep?sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, China Jiasong Fang, Hadal Science and Technology Research Center, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China and College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Hawaii Pacific University, Honolulu, HI, USA Kexin Liu, State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Technology, Peking University, Beijing, China Xiaomei Xu and Ellen R.M. Druffel, Department of Earth System Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA AI must be unobtrusive to be accepted as part of clinical decision making PITTSBURGH--Physicians making life-and-death decisions about organ transplants, cancer treatments or heart surgeries typically don't give much thought to how artificial intelligence might help them. And that's how researchers at Carnegie Mellon University say clinical AI tools should be designed -- so doctors don't need to think about them. A surgeon might never feel the need to ask an AI for advice, much less allow it to make a clinical decision for them, said John Zimmerman, the Tang Family Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Human-Computer Interaction in CMU's Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII). But an AI might guide decisions if it were embedded in the decision-making routines already used by the clinical team, providing AI-generated predictions and evaluations as part of the overall mix of information. Zimmerman and his colleagues call this approach "Unremarkable AI." "The idea is that AI should be unremarkable in the sense that you don't have to think about it and it doesn't get in the way," Zimmerman said. "Electricity is completely unremarkable until you don't have it." Qian Yang, a Ph.D. student in the HCII, will address how the Unremarkable AI approach guided the design of a clinical decision support tool (DST) at CHI 2019, the Association for Computing Machinery's Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, May 4-9 in Glasgow, Scotland. Yang, along with Zimmerman and Aaron Steinfeld, associate research professor in the HCII and the Robotics Institute, are working with biomedical researchers at Cornell University and CMU's Language Technologies Institute on a DST to help physicians evaluate heart patients for treatment with a ventricular assist device (VAD). This implantable pump aids diseased hearts in patients who can't receive heart transplants, but many recipients die shortly after the implant. The DST under development uses machine learning methods to analyze thousands of cases and calculate a probability of whether an individual might benefit. DSTs have been developed to help diagnose or plan treatment for a number of medical conditions and surgical procedures, but most fail to make the transition from lab to clinical practice and fall into disuse. "They all assume you know you need help," Zimmerman said. They often face resistance from physicians, many of whom don't think they need help, or see the DST as technology designed to replace them. Yang used the Unremarkable AI principles to design how the clinical team would interact with the DST for VADs. These teams include mid-level clinicians, such as nurse practitioners, social workers and VAD coordinators, who routinely use computers; and surgeons and cardiologists, who value their colleagues' advice over computational support. The natural time to incorporate the DST's prognostications is during multidisciplinary patient evaluation meetings, Yang said. Though physicians make the ultimate decision about when or if to implant a VAD, the entire team is often present at these meetings and computers are being used. Her design automatically incorporates the DST prognostications into the slides prepared for each patient. In most cases, the DST information won't be significant, Steinfeld suggested, but for certain patients, or at certain critical points for each patient, the DST might provide information that demands attention. Though the DST itself is still under development, the researchers tested this interaction design at three hospitals that perform VAD surgery, with DST-enhanced slides presented for simulated patients. "The mid-levels --- the support staff -- loved this," Yang said, because it enhanced their input and helped them be more active in the discussion. Physician reaction was less enthusiastic, reflecting skepticism about DSTs and the conviction that it was impossible to totally evaluate the interaction without a fully functioning system and real patients. But Yang said physicians didn't display the same defensiveness and feelings about being replaced by technology typically associated with DSTs. They also acknowledged that the DST might inform their decisions. "Prior systems were all about telling you what to do," Zimmerman said. "We're not replacing human judgment. We're trying to give humans inhuman abilities." "And to do that we need to maintain the human decision-making process," Steinfeld added. ### The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the CMU Center for Machine Learning and Health supported this research. On Sunday, April 28, a team of researchers received the 2019 Human Growth Award at the Pediatric Endocrine Society's Annual Meeting for their abstract, entitled "Clinical Characterization and Trial of Growth Hormone in Patients with Aggrecan Deficiency: 6 Month Data," and presented this at the PES Presidential Poster Session. Eirene Alexadrou, M.D., a fellow at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, accepted the award and honorarium, while ongoing research is underway. This study started in 2017, with the objective of characterizing the phenotypic spectrum and response to a standardized regimen of growth hormone in a small cohort of 10 patients and their families. In 2017, Andrew Dauber, M.D., MMSc., the division chief of endocrinology at Children's National Health System, led an international consortium of researchers in publishing a manuscript describing the phenotypic spectrum of 103 individuals - 70 adults and 33 children, including 57 females and 46 males - from 20 families with aggrecan gene (ACAN) mutations. Dr. Dauber and his colleagues have established that short stature and accelerated bone age is common among people with ACAN mutations. In a review of retrospective data, including patients treated with a variety of growth-promoting therapies at varying doses, the research team found that over the first one, two and three years of treatment, the standard deviation scores (SDS) for height increased by .4, .7 and 1, respectively. The current abstract now describes six children enrolled in a prospective standardized trial of growth hormone therapy. After six months of treatment, the children have increased their height SDS by an average of 0.46, the equivalent of a mean increased height velocity of 9.5 centimeters each year. The researchers are now performing an in-depth look at joint effects, examining special MRIs of the knees. They found that two of the children had a problem with their knee cartilage called osteochondritis dissecans. They had not yet presented with clinical symptoms. The researchers hope that early intervention with physical therapy can help prevent significant joint disease in the future. "Providing growth hormone therapy to children with ACAN gene mutations is relatively new in the field of pediatric endocrinology," notes Dr. Dauber. "Previously, the assumption was that this was just short stature. We'll continue to diagnose ACAN mutations in a clinical setting and work with families to reduce the risk of complications, such as joint problems or early-onset arthritis, which may co-occur with this gene mutation." As an example, Dr. Dauber met an 8-year-old patient several months ago who presented with symptoms of short stature. The patient is healthy, confident and still growing so her mother wasn't worried about her but she made the appointment to see if there was an underlying cause to her daughter's short stature. Her family history revealed clues to an ACAN mutation, which was later confirmed through genetic tests. Her mom, M, stands 4'8; her grandmother is 4'9. Her great grandmother was short and her great, great grandfather was 5'1. Short stature and joint problems run in the family. Once M mentioned she had osteochondritis dissecans and a hip replacement, she provided a textbook case study for carrying the ACAN mutation. After the appointment, M shared the news with her mother about the possibility of having aggrecan deficiency. After taking genetic tests, M, her mother and M's daughter learned they all have the ACAN mutation, and enrolled in the study that Dr. Dauber is guiding. Suddenly, it all made sense. After examining family photos, they traced the ACAN mutation back through four generations. They could tell what relatives had an altered copy of the ACAN gene. M had it, while her two sisters did not. M's mother was an only child, so she didn't have aunts or uncles to compare her mother's height to, but M's grandmother was short, while her grandmother's brother was average height. Although her mother's family was from Germany, she learned that there is no specific ancestry associated with this mutation. It happens by chance and is passed down from a single parent to, on average, half of their children, a form of genetic inheritance called autosomal dominant transmission. Through further research, M learned that the ACAN gene provides instructions for producing aggrecan protein, which is essential for bone growth, as well as for the stability of cartilage that lines bones and joints, explaining her recurring joint problems. She also looked into the future, examining potential risk factors for her daughter: joint pain and bone conditions, which could contribute to arthritis, hip dysplasia and back problems. The diagnosis now makes it easier for M and her daughter to favor bone-building activities that are easy on the joints, like swimming or water aerobics, instead of gymnastics and weight lifting. After having a hip replacement, M was careful to supplement with calcium and vitamin D. Now, she'll take the same steps to ensure optimal bone health for her daughter. She'll work with orthopedic specialists as her daughter grows into her pre-teen and adolescent years, carefully monitoring joint pain - altering activities that are tough on the joints, as necessary. M let her daughter make a decision about growth hormone therapy, which her daughter decided to try. The benefits of the treatment, increased height, carry inconveniences, such as taking daily shots, but they are sticking with it. "We're at the tip of the iceberg with research that explores this gene mutation," says Dr. Dauber. "We'll continue to study these families, and more, over time to assess growth patterns and gene expression, which may reveal other mutations associated with short stature or joint problems, and guide future treatment options. It was a coincidence that this family had the ACAN mutation and scheduled an appointment, while we're conducting this study. Otherwise, they may not have had an answer since this is fairly new research." M and her daughter are happy to be part of this study, which they will participate in for the next few years. M's mother is also glad to participate. She made a different choice, decades ago, to reject hormone treatment when it was offered to her for undiagnosed short stature, but she's sharing genetic clues, which may influence treatment options for her granddaughter and for her family's next generation. ### The original study, "Clinical Characterization of Patients with Autosomal Dominant Short Stature due to Aggrecan Muations," appeared in the Feb. 2017 issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, and published as an online advance on Nov. 21, 2016. Thirty-six researchers collaborated on this original paper, which was funded by 16 international health institutes and foundations, including the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development at the National Institutes of Health, the Swedish Research Council, the Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems, the Marianne and Marcus Wallenberg Foundation, the Stockholm County Council, the Swedish Society of Medicine, Byggmastare Olle Engkvist's Foundation, the Sao Paulo Research Foundation, the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science, the Czech Health Research Council and the Ministry of Health, Czech Republic. Video: https://youtu.be/huGqyMS2gTs Results of the ComPARe project reported in a special issue of Preventive Medicine on the burden of cancer in Canada Amsterdam, May 8, 2019 - We know that there are many ways in which cancer can be prevented, but how many cancers can we prevent? And what do we have to do to really have an impact on reducing the burden of this disease? A special issue of Preventive Medicine, published by Elsevier, responds to these questions, showcasing results from the Canadian Population Attributable Risk of Cancer (ComPARe) project--the most comprehensive, up-to-date estimate of the preventable burden of cancer in Canada. "In the last few years, the notion that most cancer cases are due to bad luck and thus unavoidable has become common in the medical literature," noted the issue's Guest Editor Salaheddin M. Mahmud, MD, PhD, Vaccine and Drug Evaluation Centre, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada. "While it is true that much progress is needed to find better treatments for cancer, studies such as that conducted by the ComPARe consortium show unequivocally that there is much that can be done to prevent cancer." Despite significant advances in treatment and early detection, cancer is now the leading cause of death among Canadians, with one of every three deaths in 2017 attributed to cancer. Unfortunately, progress in designing and implementing effective public policies and cancer prevention programs has been hampered by the lack of current, accurate, and comprehensive information on the relative importance of the factors that drive cancer incidence in Canada. In order to address this critical gap, ComPARe, in partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society, brought together a multidisciplinary team of Canadian experts in epidemiology, biostatistics, cancer risk factors, cancer prevention, and knowledge translation. Their goal was to estimate the burden of cancer in Canada caused by more than 20 modifiable lifestyle, environmental, and infectious agent risk factors. In a collection of 16 peer-reviewed articles, this issue provides estimates of the current (2015) number and percentage of cancers in Canada attributable to these risk factors. It also projects how changes in the prevalence of these risk factors through prevention efforts could affect cancer incidence in the future (up to 2042). Where possible, estimates are presented by sex, age, and province/territory. No previous studies within Canada and few studies outside of Canada have examined the future preventable burden of cancer. "Epidemiological studies backed by strong basic research have already given us much of the knowledge on modifiable risk factors. The papers in this special issue translate the technical complexity of that science into actionable targets for cancer prevention," commented Preventive Medicine's Editor-in-Chief, Eduardo Franco, MPH, DrPH, PhD (Hon), Professor and Director, Division of Cancer Epidemiology, and Chairman, Department of Oncology, at McGill University's Faculty of Medicine, in Montreal, QC, Canada. Key ComPARe Findings About 33-37 percent of cancers in Canada were caused by modifiable lifestyle, environmental, and infectious agent risk factors. This translates to approximately 62,000 to 70,000 cancer cases in 2015. Tobacco was the leading preventable cause of cancer, followed by physical inactivity, excess body weight, HPV, and alcohol consumption. Cancers of the cervix, lung, and head and neck were the most preventable cancers in Canada. If current trends continue, about 102,000 cancers in Canada would be caused by modifiable risk factors in 2042. By 2042, excess body weight is projected to be the second leading preventable cause of cancer. Over 40,000 cancers could be prevented every year with a substantial reduction of all modifiable risk factors. Over 11,000 and 6,000 cancers could be prevented every year with a substantial reduction in smoking and excess body weight, respectively. Also covered are the burden of cancer attributable to exposure to occupational, radon, and particulate matter; consumption of red and processed meat; low consumption of fruits and vegetables; infections; and ultraviolet radiation. ComPARe used an integrated knowledge translation approach to maximize the impact of the study on cancer prevention by increasing the relevance, reach, and uptake of the results to users. Population-attributable risks (PAR) and potential impact fractions (PIF) were employed to model current (attributable) and future (avoidable) cancers. All analyses were guided by a common methodological framework. These results are expected to have an important impact on cancer prevention decision-making in Canada. They are directly relevant for guiding cancer prevention research, informing program development, influencing behavior change, and advocating for new policies and interventions aimed at decreasing the burden of cancer in Canada. They will also inform national and provincial policy makers about the risk factors and cancer sites most amenable to intervention(s) and help identify which cancer prevention policies could have the greatest impact. Beyond Canada, it is anticipated that the findings of the ComPARe project will influence other countries and jurisdictions to conduct similar analyses. "The greatest value of this collection is that it is much greater than the sum of the parts," said Dr. Mahmud. "Each article gives enough attention with sufficient methodological detail on a particular modifiable risk factor to permit investigators in other countries to follow the same roadmap. The time has come to act on the key discoveries from cancer prevention research and turn them into measurable benefits for the population." ### Notes for editors Preventive Medicine Special Issue: Burden of Cancer in Canada Guest Editor: Salaheddin M. Mahmud, Vaccine and Drug Evaluation Centre, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada The articles appear in Preventive Medicine, Volume 122 (May 2019) published by Elsevier. All articles in this Special Issue are openly available at https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/preventive-medicine/vol/122. For further information please contact the Elsevier Newsroom at newsroom@elsevier.com or prevmed-media@elsevier.com. To reach the Guest Editor or the authors of specific papers contact Salaheddin M. Mahmud at Salah.Mahmud@gmail.com. For questions about Preventive Medicine, please contact Editor-in-Chief Eduardo L. Franco at +1 514 398 6032 or eduardo.franco@mcgill.caprev.med@mcgill.ca. The ComPARe project was led by Christine Friedenreich, PhD, Department of Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research of CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, and an Adjunct Professor in the Faculties of Medicine and Kinesiology of the University of Calgary, and Darren Brenner, PhD, Departments of Oncology and Community Health Sciences at the University of Calgary. All knowledge products (e.g., publications, infographics) created for this study are available through the ComPARe website at prevent.cancer.ca (with French content on prevenir.cancer.ca). About Preventive Medicine Founded in 1972 by Ernst Wynder, Preventive Medicine is an international scholarly journal that publishes original articles on the science and practice of disease prevention, health promotion, and public health policymaking. Preventive Medicine aims to reward innovation. It favors insightful observational studies, thoughtful explorations of health data, unsuspected new angles for existing hypotheses, robust randomized controlled trials, and impartial systematic reviews. Preventive Medicine's ultimate goal is to publish research that will have an impact on the work of practitioners of disease prevention and health promotion, as well as of related disciplines. About Elsevier Elsevier is a global information analytics business that helps scientists and clinicians to find new answers, reshape human knowledge, and tackle the most urgent human crises. For 140 years, we have partnered with the research world to curate and verify scientific knowledge. Today, we're committed to bringing that rigor to a new generation of platforms. 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, 39,000 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 Jonathan Davis, Communications Officer Elsevier +31 20 485 2719 newsroom@elsevier.com prevmed-media@elsevier.com Research confirms that grapefruit juice prolongs the QT interval; this finding has implications for patients taking medications that prolong the QT interval and may have implications for patients with congenital long QT syndrome, according to a new study Philadelphia, May 8, 2019 - Grapefruit juice is already listed as a substance to avoid when taking QT-prolonging medications because it increases the toxicity of many drugs. Investigators have now confirmed the QT-prolonging effects of grapefruit juice in a new study and call for a stronger warning to patients who are taking QT-prolonging drugs or who have long QT syndrome because of the potential risk. They report their findings in HeartRhythm, the official journal of the Heart Rhythm Society and the Cardiac Electrophysiology Society, published by Elsevier. There are over 200 medications that prolong the QT interval, the time it takes for your heart muscle to recharge between beats. The list includes not only antiarrhythmic drugs, but also medications with no cardiac indications such as some antibiotics, antihistamines, and antipsychotic drugs. These drugs work mainly by blocking a specific "IKr" potassium channel on the myocardial (cardiac muscle) cell membrane, thus prolonging the repolarization in the ventricles of the heart. Abnormalities in the QT interval can also be caused by genetic conditions such as long QT syndrome. "With so many drugs, of such varied composition blocking the IKr channel, it is reasonable to assume that food compounds may also have IKr-channel-blocker properties, raising the possibility that 'proarrhythmic food' exists," explained Sami Viskin, MD, Department of Cardiology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel, who led the study. "Previous studies showed that flavonoid compounds contained in grapefruit juice have IKr channel- blocking properties. We therefore tested the possibility that grapefruit juice has QT-prolonging properties." Investigators tested the effects of grapefruit juice on the QT interval following the same stringent criteria used by the pharmaceutical industry to test new drugs before market release. The study was performed according to the "Guidelines for the Clinical Evaluation of QT/QTc for Non-antiarrhythmic Drugs," namely, a randomized crossover design, accurate and blinded QT analysis. As positive control, they used moxifloxacin, an antibiotic with known, albeit small, QT-prolonging properties. Thirty healthy volunteers and ten patients with congenital long QT syndrome participated in a four-day thorough-QT-study. On days one and three, study subjects received no study drugs and underwent multiple electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings to test for the spontaneous daily variability, and spontaneous day-to-day variability of their QT interval. On days two and four, healthy participants received either moxifloxacin (one oral dose of 400 mg) or grapefruit juice (two liters in three divided doses hours apart) in random order. The patients with long QT syndrome received only grapefruit juice. The study confirmed that grapefruit juice prolongs the QT interval. Among healthy volunteers the net QT prolongation was small, but comparable to that caused by moxifloxacin. The grapefruit-induced QT prolongation was greater in females than in males and more so in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. Dr. Viskin and colleagues summarize the implications for patient subgroups as follow: Patients taking cardiac or non-cardiac medications that prolong the QT interval. Grapefruit juice is already listed as a substance to avoid when taking QT-prolonging medications because it inhibits the metabolism of many drugs, increasing their toxicity. The confirmed QT-prolonging effects of grapefruit juice call for an even stronger warning. Asymptomatic, healthy individuals. The doses of grapefruit juice tested in this study were large (two liters in three divided doses) and the net QT prolongation observed was small. The study does not imply that daily consumption of grapefruit juice involves any measurable risk for the general population. A possible exception could be the consumption of "health drinks" containing highly concentrated grapefruit products. Patients with congenital or other forms of long QT syndrome. Investigators recommend that these patients should be informed that drinking grapefruit juice in large quantities may impose some risk. "The net increase in QT interval caused by grapefruit among healthy volunteers was small, but in the range that, if grapefruit juice were a new drug in development, the results of the present study would probably lead the FDA to call for additional studies before issuing a final recommendation based on its expected benefits and risks," commented Dr. Viskin. ### Some solutions are 100 times cheaper than others, costing as little as $1 per person In what has been called "the largest mass poisoning of a population in history," some 40 million people in Bangladesh are drinking water that contains unsafe levels of arsenic. The naturally occurring element seeps into groundwater reached by shallow wells, and from there it has a huge impact on the health and lives of Bangladeshis; chronic exposure to arsenic is estimated to be responsible for six percent of deaths in the country. It causes cardiovascular disease, cancer, infant mortality, and motor and intellectual problems in children. Bangladesh's government is taking measures to address the problem, and plans to invest $200 million toward cleaning up water supplies. A new study, published last week in Environmental Science and Technology, could help to inform how that money would be best spent. The analysis compares four methods of dealing with the arsenic contamination, and pinpoints strategies to deliver cleaner water to the greatest number of people at the lowest cost. The study was inspired by a regional pipe water system recently built by the Bangladeshi government, said Lex van Geen, a research professor at Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory and a coauthor on the new study. "We saw that the pipe system cost several hundred thousand dollars, and that it was only helping a tiny part of the population." By comparing the costs and impacts of the different mitigation strategies, the study concludes that the government's strategies of constructing pipe systems and drilling deeper wells are the most expensive yet least effective options. Instead, the researchers recommend several strategies that could help more people at a much lower cost. Four Strategies The study, led by Nadia Jamil at Montclair State University, pulls from van Geen's decades-long research in Bangladesh. Van Geen's work has shown that simply testing well water and providing information about the risks of arsenic poisoning can get 60 percent of people, on average, to switch to lower-arsenic water sources. His team's most recent survey of 48,790 wells in Araihazar province is estimated to have helped 132,000 inhabitants find a cleaner source of water, at a cost of just $1 per person. Because arsenic contamination is more common in shallow wells, another strategy is to drill medium-depth wells. These private wells are a bit more expensive, costing $28 per person whose exposure is reduced. "The real shocker was that both of the government approaches were closer to $150 per person," says van Geen. These included drilling deep tubewells and constructing piped water supply systems. The researchers calculated that these strategies cost $143 and $158 per person, respectively. In addition, the government requires households to pay 10 percent of the cost of each well; as a result, the wells are often installed on private land instead of being a public resource, so they end up helping fewer people. Wider Implications Although the study focused on one district, called Araihazar Upazila, the authors think the results have significant implications for arsenic mitigation all over Bangladesh. "It strengthens the importance of widespread testing programs, which would work as a basis for other mitigation options," said Jamil. "Testing is the cheapest of all mitigation methods." She added that the study also underlines the potential of intermediate wells, which are quite low in cost, but have been "overlooked for a long period of time for unknown reasons." The team hopes to share its village-level data on contaminated wells in order to inform where best to place these intermediate wells. Due to the high cost of piped water systems, the study recommends that this approach should be used only as a last resort in areas where not even deep wells can provide low arsenic water. However, van Geen says his conversations with government officials have indicated that they will likely continue investing in deep tubewells and piped water systems, despite the fact that cheaper and more impactful strategies exist. There may be ways to increase the effectiveness of deep wells. The authors mention that by siting the wells in a more strategic way and ensuring they are truly public, just 916 wells could bring 132,000 inhabitants with an unsafe well to within 100-meters of a safe source of water. The researchers are currently exploring strategies to help make these deep well deployments more tactical. "The government is spending the money on deep wells anyway," he says, "so why not do it better?" ### How and why people become engaged in politics? Are the electronic voting machines immune to vote-rigging? Can we tackle the growing phenomenon of misinformation on social media? What impact the financial crash had on the development of political conflict in Europe? Is civil society increasingly dependent on state finance and regulation? Here are some of the questions, ERC grantees investigate and solve. The new report showcases 11 EU-funded projects that help us understand better the factors and forces that are shaping Europe's democracies. Among them five projects funded by the European Research Council in Italy, Netherlands, and the UK, as well as research supported by the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions, the European Innovation Council (EIC) pilot and other EU grants. There is no shortage of elections in 2019. In Europe alone, aside from the European Parliament elections, various national polls--local, regional, parliamentary or presidential--will be taking place in at least 15 EU Member States. At the same time, democratic politics has witnessed a surge of protest and so-called 'populist' politics that have redefined the political space in many countries and what it means to participate politically as a citizen. Understanding these eventful political times requires innovative research. The report has been published by Community Research and Development Information Service (CORDIS) and the ERC Executive Agency in collaboration with the Research Executive Agency and Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. Report: Elections and democratic participations - Understanding turbulent political times through innovative EU-funded research Available also in DE, ES, FR, IT, PL versions. ### More information Some 70 ERC grantees has so far carried out research projects to investigate different questions in the area of elections and voting, democracy, participation and political communication. Three examples from Finland, Belgium and Sweden, recently highlighted on the ERC website: Gender talk in the corridors of Brussels ERC grantee Johanna Kantola and her team at the University of Tampere have shadowed many members of Parliament and their teams, to study gender practices and policies inside Europe's legislative machine. Breezing through the information overload The research by grantee Prof. Stefaan Walgrave from the University of Antwerp compares how different politicians process plentiful information and then act on it in three western, post-industrialist parliamentary democracies - Israel, Belgium and Canada. Is political participation contagious? Why are some people more likely to vote or stand for election than others? Prof. Sven Oskarsson and his team at Uppsala University in Sweden are doing some deep data diving to find out how our social surroundings and our genes influence political participation. About the ERC The European Research Council, set up by the EU in 2007, is the premiere European funding organisation for excellent frontier research. Every year, it selects and funds the very best, creative researchers of any nationality and age, to run projects based in Europe. The ERC offers four core grant schemes: Starting, Consolidator, Advanced and Synergy Grants. With its additional Proof of Concept grant scheme, the ERC helps grantees to bridge the gap between grantees' pioneering research and early phases of its commercialisation. ERC media contacts Marcin Monko Press and Communication advisor T: +32 2 296 66 44 Eilish Brault Press and Communication adviser Phone: +32 (0)2 295 24 71 Sand, rice and coffee are all examples of granular materials. The behaviour of granular substances plays a key role in many natural processes, such as avalanches and the motion of sand dunes, but they are also important in industry. In the manufacture of pharmaceuticals or foods, it is important to process granular materials as efficiently as possible. Despite the variety of practical applications, the physical laws that govern how granular materials behave are only partly understood. The opposite is true in the case of liquids: a number of well-established physical laws and mathematical instruments are used to describe their behaviour. This is particularly true for unstable, complex mixtures, such as emulsions, which have structures that quickly rearrange themselves. A new order Researchers from the group led by Christoph Muller, Professor of Energy Science and Engineering at ETH Zurich, in collaboration with scientists at Columbia University in New York, have discovered that under certain circumstances, mixtures made of granular materials exhibit striking similarities to mixtures of immiscible liquids and can even be described by similar physical laws. To carry out their experiments, the researchers placed heavy and light grains in different configurations in a narrow container, which they vibrated while simultaneously passing air through it from below. These two processes "fluidised" the grains, so that they began to behave similarly to liquids. From the outside, the researchers then observed how the materials in the container rearranged over time. Contrasting structures If, for example, a layer of heavy sand is placed on top of lighter sand, fluidisation will cause the lighter grains to migrate upwards due to their lower density and form globule-like structures much like viscous liquids. "The grains actually behave similar as oil in water would," explains Christopher McLaren, a doctoral student in Muller's group. "A complex interaction occurs between the two materials." If a small quantity of light sand is embedded in heavy sand, the light sand will more or less move upwards in compact globules. However, in heavy sand, a more complex pattern emerges: a ball of heavy grains, surrounded by light grains, will not simply sink to the bottom intact. Rather, it will gradually disintegrate into several smaller globules, and the material will continue to branch out as time passes. Diverse applications "Our findings are significant for several applications," says Alexander Penn, a postdoc involved in the experiments. "If, for example, a pharmaceuticals manufacturer wants to produce a very homogeneous powder mixture, it has to understand the physics of these materials in detail, so that it can control the process." The findings are also likely to be of interest to geologists, helping them to better understand the processes involved in landslides or how sandy soils behave during earthquakes. Moreover, the work will also be relevant to the current energy debate. "If you analyse industrial processes, you can see that a significant share of the needed energy is used to process granular materials," explains Penn. "If we know how to better control granular materials, we can develop more energy-efficient manufacturing processes." ### Through cost-saving practices for coffee, rice, corn and livestock production, Vietnam can take steps to meet Paris Agreement commitments, says a study that highlights climate action potential for agriculture, forestry and land use in SE Asia As nations look toward 2020, when they will take stock of their actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the 2015 Paris Agreement, many are seeking ways to increase their nationally determined contributions, or NDCs, to global emissions reduction. Vietnam is one of the fortunate nations that has a suite of untapped options that, if undertaken, can save the country an estimated $2.3 billion by 2030, substantially decrease emissions while increasing agricultural productivity, and benefit coastal and forest ecosystems. These actions include agroforestry in coffee plantations, intermittently watering rice paddies instead of maintaining them permanently flooded, and providing cattle with improved feed. The study, which examines 41 measures to reduce emissions in the agriculture, forestry and other land use (AFOLU) sector in Vietnam, was published in April in Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems by researchers at the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) and colleagues. "The study highlights the importance of the AFOLU sector to achieve the Paris Agreement goals especially in developing countries," said Daniel Escobar Carbonari, the lead author and researcher for the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security at CIAT. "In fact, it shows that emissions-reductions actions in countries like Vietnam are profitable, good for the environment and can potentially increase farmer incomes." The researchers found that 14 AFOLU mitigation measures have a "negative marginal cost," meaning they cost less than business-as-usual (BAU) practices, generally because they increase productivity or reduce inputs such as fertilizer or water. Other measures, including rainforest and mangrove restoration and protection, have the higher mitigation potential but have higher marginal costs. These costs, however, may be offset by the services provided by these rich ecosystems, said the researchers. If the 41 AFOLU mitigation measures were enacted, they would eliminate or mop up 51 percent of Vietnam's projected emissions in 2030, when the country would have a population of more than 100 million people. "This shows that feasible changes in land use and agriculture have tremendous potential for Vietnam to mitigate its greenhouse gas emissions," said Godefroy Grosjean, who leads CIAT's Asia Climate Policy Hub and is a study co-author. "If coupled with a national strategy to reduce emissions from energy and transportation - and international support - AFOLU-based mitigation could play a key role in achieving ambitious NDC targets." "This study could be replicated in other Southeast Asian countries to guide their NDC targeting," he added. More ambitious targets Globally, AFOLU accounts for almost 25 percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions but its importance in NDCs is often overshadowed by fossil fuel use, which accounts for the vast majority of emissions. Under the more optimistic (yet feasible) projections made by the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the AFOLU sector has the potential for "negative emissions," meaning that it would absorb more greenhouse gas than it emits in an annual cycle. The researchers said more research and better data on the true costs of some AFOLU measures would help Vietnam refine its NDCs, which they suggest can be more ambitious in light of the potential the measures have for meeting Paris Agreement targets. Improved data on forestry, which has especially high mitigation potential, would aid better projections of BAU-changing scenarios. More "costly" efforts such as mangrove protection and restoration would ultimately prove less expensive, if their positive contributions - including storm surge protection, prevention of erosion and providing nurseries for fish - were better understood in economic terms. "Nevertheless there are important barriers, and better information is needed to improve the climate change policy in SEA countries," said Escobar, who is also a researcher at Stockholm University and Colombia's Ecotonos Foundation. "Vietnam's NDCs have important challenges ahead. Reviewing some of the assumptions underlying the country's emissions projections are important to achieving consistency with their mitigation options, and improving the likelihood of effective climate policy." Scaling up mitigation practices will be a challenge given the size of certain agricultural subsectors. Vietnam is the world's second-largest producer of coffee and fifth largest of rice, by volume. Climate change and increasing domestic demand for food and animal products may also put pressure on natural landscapes. " The revision process of national NDCs is crucial to reach the goals set under the Paris Agreement," said Grosjean. "This study highlights the importance of constant data refinement regarding the mitigation options considered in the NDCs, especially for the AFOLU sectors of developing countries, where data scarcity is more pronounced." ### Funders and collaborators This work was implemented as part of the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), which is carried out with support from the CGIAR Trust Fund and through bilateral funding agreements. For details please visit https://ccafs.cgiar.org/donors. We are thankful to USAID for providing funding for data collection for rice related mitigation options. The position of GG at CIAT has been partly funded by the German development cooperation Centre for International Migration and Development. The position of BS at IRRI has partly been funded by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC). Researchers from King's College London have found that therapy that can induce heart cells to regenerate after a heart attack. Myocardial infarction, more commonly known as a heart attack, caused by the sudden blocking of one of the cardiac coronary arteries, is the main cause of heart failure, a condition that now affects over 23 million population in the world, according to the World Health Organisation. At present, when a patient survives a heart attack, they are left with permanent structural damage to their heart through the formation of a scar, which can lead to heart failure in the future. In contrast to fish and salamander, which can regenerate the heart throughout life. In this study, published today in Nature, the team of investigators delivered a small piece of genetic material, called microRNA-199, to the heart of pigs, after a myocardial infarction which resulted in the almost complete recovery of cardiac function at one month later. Lead author Professor Mauro Giacca, from King's College London said: "It is a very exciting moment for the field. After so many unsuccessful attempts at regenerating the heart using stem cells, which all have failed so far, for the first time we see real cardiac repair in a large animal." This is the first demonstration that cardiac regeneration can be achieved by administering an effective genetic drug that stimulates cardiac regeneration in a large animal, with heart anatomy and physiology like that of humans. "It will take some time before we can proceed to clinical trials" explained Professor Giacca. "We still need to learn how to administer the RNA as a synthetic molecule in large animals and then in patients, but we already know this works well in mice". ### The study was a collaboration with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), a United Nations organisation in Trieste, Italy and the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna and Fondazione Monasterio hospital in Pisa, Italy, where investigators led by Professor Fabio Recchia performed the animal experiments. Professor Giacca and his team joined the School of Cardiovascular Medicine & Sciences BHF Centre of Excellence of King's College London from Trieste earlier this year to continue translation of these studies in patients. The three trimesters of pregnancy are filled with doctor's appointments, preparations and careful surveillance of the health of both mom and baby. However, in the months after their baby is born, known as the fourth trimester, priorities often shift for new moms, and their own health can fall to the bottom of their to-do lists. A new national survey by Orlando Health found more than a quarter of mothers did not have a plan to manage their health after giving birth, while more than 40 percent say they felt anxious, overwhelmed or depressed. "The fourth trimester can be difficult and overwhelming for women as their bodies go through physical and emotional changes, and this time deserves the same support and attention as the first three trimesters," said Megan Gray, MD, an OB/GYN at Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. "Seeing your doctor within a few weeks of delivery and sharing any concerns is critical to getting the care and treatment you need." Additional findings from the survey include: Women under 45 were more likely to report that they experienced anxiety or depression after birth (57%) compared to women over 45 (31%). More than a third of women (37%) felt embarrassed by what their body was going through after birth. Nearly two-thirds of women (63%) said they were equally concerned with their health as they were with their baby's health, yet 26% did not have a good plan for their own health management after delivery, a number that jumps to 37% among 18- to 34-year-olds. Gray says focusing on their own health may seem nearly impossible for new moms with a newborn at home, but in order to take the best care of their babies, moms have to make time to take care of themselves. Seeing their OB/GYN can help identify and treat common issues like abnormal bleeding, trouble breastfeeding and postpartum anxiety. "Just talking through some of the things they're going through can help women realize that they're not alone and that what they're feeling is okay," said Gray. "Asking for help will ultimately make you a better mom." It took Rachael Kobb some time to realize that. She says she felt unprepared for just how difficult those first months would be after having her son. "I thought everything would come more naturally, but it was so much harder than I expected. Women have been raising babies forever, and I felt selfish for feeling like I couldn't handle it," she said. Rachael struggled to breastfeed and began to experience postpartum anxiety. "I felt very lonely, but I didn't know how to ask for help," she said. "When I finally did see my doctor, it was a huge relief to be reassured that what I felt was normal and that it was going to get better." The best treatment Rachael has found for her anxiety is simply carving out some time for herself. "Whether it's just reading a book or taking a walk, it's so important to have that time," she said. "It was also really helpful to reach out and find other moms who were going through the same thing." Gray says Rachael's experience is extremely common, and she's working to educate more women during pregnancy on what to expect during the fourth trimester. "You may feel out of control, and you are. Not every woman is able to breastfeed; your baby may not sleep at exactly the same time every day or drink the exact same amount of milk at each feeding, and that's okay," said Gray. "There is no perfect mom out there, and taking some of that pressure off yourself will help you be the best mom you can be and help you better experience the many joys of motherhood." Gray says more physicians, midwives and healthcare providers should make the fourth trimester a standard part of prenatal education. Having support and a plan in place before their baby arrives will help them make postpartum care a priority. ### If you have any questions, contact: chelsea@mediasourcetv.com or call: 614.932.9950 ABOUT ORLANDO HEALTH Orlando Health is a $3.8 billion not-for-profit healthcare organization and a community-based network of hospitals, physician practices and outpatient care centers across Central Florida. The organization is home to the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics, and is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals. More than 3,000 physicians have privileges across the system, which is also one of the area's largest employers with more than 23,000 employees who serve nearly 155,000 inpatients, more than 3 million outpatients, and more than 10,000 international patients each year. Additionally, Orlando Health provides more than $345 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at http://www.orlandohealth.com. ORLANDO HEALTH WINNIE PALMER HOSPITAL for WOMEN & BABIES Orlando Health Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies is a 350-bed facility dedicated exclusively to the needs of women and babies. The hospital includes comprehensive fetal diagnostics and labor and delivery services, a regional center for neonatal intensive care, maternal intensive care and women's services. Annually, more than 14,000 babies are expected to be born at Winnie Palmer Hospital, making it the busiest labor and delivery unit in the state of Florida. The hospital is also home to the state's only in-utero surgery program to repair Spina bifida defects. To learn more, visit http://www.winniepalmerhospital.com. BROOKLYN, New York, Wednesday, May 8, 2019 - Logic and memory devices, such as the hard drives in computers, now use nanomagnetic mechanisms to store and manipulate information. Unlike silicon transistors, which have fundamental efficiency limitations, they require no energy to maintain their magnetic state: Energy is needed only for reading and writing information. One method of controlling magnetism uses electrical current that transports spin to write information, but this usually involves flowing charge. Because this generates heat and energy loss, the costs can be enormous, particularly in the case of large server farms or in applications like artificial intelligence, which require massive amounts of memory. Spin, however, can be transported without a charge with the use of a topological insulator - a material whose interior is insulating but that can support the flow of electrons on its surface. In a newly published Physical Review Applied paper, researchers from New York University introduce a voltage-controlled topological spin switch (vTOPSS) that requires only electric fields, rather than currents, to switch between two Boolean logic states, greatly reducing the heat generated and energy used. The team is comprised of Shaloo Rakheja, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering, and Andrew D. Kent, an NYU professor of physics and director of the University's Center for Quantum Phenomena, along Michael E. Flatte, a professor at the University of Iowa. Rakheja employs a simple analogy to explain the impact of switching between two states more effectively. "Imagine if you were preparing a recipe and had to go into a different room anytime you needed an ingredient before returning to the kitchen to add it," she says. "It's just as inefficient when the portions of computing hardware needed to do a calculation and the portions needed to store it are not well integrated." While heterostructure devices like theirs, composed of a magnetic insulator and topological insulator, are still slightly slower than silicon transistors, vTOPSS increases functionality and circuit design possibilities, as it has integrated logic and non-volatile memory. "This is ultimately a matter of user experience and added features," Rakheja says. Because vTOPPS will reduce reliance on cloud memory, it also holds the potential for making computing safer, as hackers will have greater difficulty gaining access to a system's hardware. Next steps will include further optimization at the materials and design level to improve the switching speed, as well as developing prototypes. ### The researchers' work was funded by the National Science Foundation's Materials Research Science and Engineering Centers (MRSEC), and their paper, "Voltage-controlled topological spin switch for ultralow-energy computing-performance modeling and benchmarking," is available at https://journals.aps.org/prapplied/abstract/10.1103/PhysRevApplied.11.054009. About the New York University Tandon School of Engineering The NYU Tandon School of Engineering dates to 1854, the founding date for both the New York University School of Civil Engineering and Architecture and the Brooklyn Collegiate and Polytechnic Institute (widely known as Brooklyn Poly). A January 2014 merger created a comprehensive school of education and research in engineering and applied sciences, rooted in a tradition of invention and entrepreneurship and dedicated to furthering technology in service to society. In addition to its main location in Brooklyn, NYU Tandon collaborates with other schools within NYU, one of the country's foremost private research universities, and is closely connected to engineering programs at NYU Abu Dhabi and NYU Shanghai. It operates Future Labs focused on start-up businesses in downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn and an award-winning online graduate program. For more information, visit http://engineering.nyu.edu. Hospitalizations for a feared complication of diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), rise sharply as adolescents transition to adulthood in the U.S, but not in Canada, according to a new study published May 8 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. DKA can generally be prevented with regular use of insulin. The increased DKA rate in the U.S. occurs around age 18, a time when many adolescents change or lose insurance coverage, a disruption that places them at risk for skipping medical visits or being unable to afford insulin. The study, conducted by an international team of researchers at the Harvard Medical School, Cambridge Health Alliance, the City University of New York at Hunter College, and the University of Manitoba in Canada, analyzed nearly 170,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. and 1,300 in Manitoba, Canada. Among teenagers, the investigators found, the DKA hospitalization rate was slightly higher in the U.S. compared to Manitoba. However, as teenagers became young adults, the hospitalization rate soared by 90% in the U.S., but only rose 23% in Canada. "The U.S. health care system is failing far too many patients, including those with diabetes," noted lead author Dr. Adam Gaffney, an instructor at Harvard Medical School and a pulmonary and critical care physician at Cambridge Health Alliance. "In American, 29 million are uninsured, while far more face unaffordable deductibles or sky-high drug costs--including for insulin. The consequences can be deadly." "Despite Obamacare, millions of Americans are uninsured, and the uninsurance rate is highest among young adults," noted Dr. Andrea Christopher, lead author and a primary care doctor now at the University of Washington School of Medicine. "Even with insurance, drug copayments are often so high that young people with diabetes can't afford the insulin they need to survive." Dr. Steffie Woolhandler, study author and a distinguished professor of public health at CUNY's Hunter College and lecturer in medicine at Harvard Medical School added, "We know from other studies that thousands die each year because they're uninsured, and millions skip their medications because of costs. Meanwhile, drug companies have been hiking the price of insulin and other vital drugs in our country, charging twice as much as elsewhere. The combination of poor coverage and outrageous drug prices often lands patients in the hospital--or worse." ### "The Incidence of Diabetic Ketoacidosis During 'Emerging Adulthood' in the USA and Canada: a Population-Based Study." Adam Gaffney, MD, MPH; Andrea Christopher, MD, MPH; Alan Katz, MBChB, MSc; Dan Chateau, PhD; Chelsey McDougall, MSc; David Bor, MD; David Himmelstein, MD; Steffie Woolhandler, MD, MPH; Danny McCormick, MD, MPH. Journal of General Internal Medicine, published online May 8, 2019. DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-05006-6 Thirteen years ago, Susanne Klawetter gave birth to triplets. They required a stay in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Stays like Klawetter's are relatively common: about 10 percent of all babies born nationwide will require care in a NICU, according to the National Institutes of Health. The experience is traumatic and can have negative, lasting impacts for both the baby and parents. But health systems don't have an infrastructure in place to support NICU parents in a systematic way. "The NICU experience can be really tough. We need to be thinking about how we can support families navigating it," Klawetter said. Her experience inspired the Portland State University Assistant Professor of Social Work to seek change and research the needs of NICU parents. Klawetter received a two-year, $740,601 grant through the NW Patient-Centered Learning Health Systems Science K12 Research Career Development Program to support her research project. She's the first recipient of a K-12 grant in the PSU School of Social Work. The grant will allow Klawetter to identify the behavioral health needs of parents with NICU babies -- which could include features like on-site counseling or access to peer support -- and identifying barriers to meeting those needs. She will partner with Oregon Health & Science University to conduct the study. Once she determines what health systems could offer to better support parents, Klawetter will pull together a workgroup to figure out what a sustainable program might look like. "There's such a tremendous opportunity for health systems to really impact the long-term trajectory of the family in a focused way," Klawetter said. Parents with babies in the NICU also have a higher risk of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse, according to NIH statistics. The postpartum depression rate in the U.S., for example, is 10 to 15 percent for the general maternal population. That rate jumps to 39 to 55 percent for mothers with babies in the NICU. Research also shows that mothers with infants in the NICU have a higher prevalence of severe anxiety -- 43 percent -- and parents hold onto the stress and trauma of their experience in the NICU for more than a month after discharge in the form of PTSD, according to NIH. That's the case for 15 percent of mothers and 8 percent of fathers. "My position is that if we can figure out how to have the health system provide behavioral health support for families in the NICU, you will ultimately improve patient outcomes," Klawetter said. The good news is providers want to support families in the NICU but the best way to do this is currently a knowledge gap. "I think they care about families and want to increase knowledge about how to support NICU families," she added. Klawetter's research will begin in earnest this summer with the hiring of a PSU graduate assistant. After completing phase one of her project, Klawetter plans to apply for a new grant to design a pilot project based on her findings. ### TROY, N.Y. -- As more rain falls on a warming planet, a new computer model shows that it may not take a downpour to cause widespread disruption of road networks. The model combined data on road networks with the hills and valleys of topography to reveal "tipping points" at which even small localized increases in rain cause widespread road outages. The findings, which were tested using data from the impact of Hurricane Harvey on the Houston area, were published today in Nature Communications. "To prepare for climate change, we have to know where flooding leads to the biggest disruptions in transportation routes. Network science typically points to the biggest interactions, or the most heavily traveled routes. That's not what we see here," said Jianxi Gao, an assistant professor of computer science at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and lead author of the study. "A little bit of flood-induced damage can cause abrupt widespread failures." Gao, a network scientist, worked with environmental scientists at Beijing Normal University and a physicist at Boston University to reconcile traditional network science models that predict how specific disruptions impact a road network with environmental science models that predict how topography influences flooding. Traditional network science predicts continuous levels of damage, in which case knocking out minor roads or intersections would cause only minor damage to the network. But because of how water flows over land, adding topographical information yields a more accurate prediction. In Florida, an increase from 30mm to 35mm of rainfall knocked out 50 percent of the road network. And in New York, Gao found that runoff greater than 45mm isolated the northeastern part of the state from the interior of the United States. In the Hunan province of China, an increase from 25mm to 30mm of rainfall knocked out 42 percent of the provincial road network. In the Sichuan province, an increase from 95mm to 100mm in rainfall knock out 48.7 percent of the provincial road network. And overall, and an increase from 160mm to 165mm of rainfall knocked out 17.3 percent of road network in China and abruptly isolated the western part of mainland China. The researchers validated their model by comparing predicted results with observed road outages in Houston and South East Texas caused by Hurricane Harvey. Their model predicted 90.6 percent of reported road closures and 94.1 percent of reported flooded streets. "We cracked the data. Hurricane Harvey caused some of the most extensive road outages in U.S. history, and our model predicted that damage," Gao said. "Adding 3D information causes more unusual failure patterns than we expected, but now we have developed the mathematical equations to predict those patterns." ### Gao was joined in the research by Weiping Wang and Saini Yang of Beijing Normal University, and H. Eugene Stanley of Boston University. At Rensselaer, the research was funded by the Office of Naval Research, and a grant from the Knowledge and Innovation Program at Rensselaer. About Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Founded in 1824, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is America's first technological research university. Rensselaer encompasses five schools, 32 research centers, more than 145 academic programs, and a dynamic community made up of more than 7,900 students and over 100,000 living alumni. Rensselaer faculty and alumni include more than 145 National Academy members, six members of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, six National Medal of Technology winners, five National Medal of Science winners, and a Nobel Prize winner in Physics. With nearly 200 years of experience advancing scientific and technological knowledge, Rensselaer remains focused on addressing global challenges with a spirit of ingenuity and collaboration. To learn more, please visit http://www.rpi.edu. Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, PhD, Director of the Global Health and Emerging Pathogens Institute, and the Irene and Dr. Arthur M. Fishberg Professor of Microbiology and Medicine (Infectious Diseases) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), an honor signifying that a researcher has made outstanding contributions to the field. With his election, Mount Sinai has three current faculty members in the National Academy of Sciences: Dr. Garcia-Sastre; Maria Iandolo New, MD, Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine (Endocrinology), and Genetic and Genomic Sciences; and Peter Palese, PhD, Horace W. Goldsmith Professor and Chair of Microbiology, and Professor of Medicine (Infectious Diseases). For more than 20 years, Dr. Garcia-Sastre has researched the molecular biology of influenza viruses and several other negative-strand RNA viruses. His landmark contributions include the successful development of reverse genetics techniques allowing the recreation of the extinct pandemic influenza virus of 1918 from recombinant DNA. "It is with great honor that I congratulate my colleague Dr. Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, who has made great contributes to science," said Dr. Palese. "His work has enabled the reconstruction of the extinct 1918 influenza virus, has led to the identification of the biological role of the influenza virus NS1 protein as an interferon antagonist, and has informed continued efforts to develop a universal influenza virus vaccine. This is a great achievement and we are excited to see him continue this important work in the future." "Dr. Garcia-Sastre's research represents the frontier of his field," says Dennis S. Charney, MD, the Anne and Joel Ehrenkranz Dean of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. "The discoveries made by him and others at Mount Sinai will result in powerful new means to combat deadly viruses that affect millions of people and lay the groundwork for discovery of viruses yet known. This distinguished achievement is well-deserved." Dr. Garcia-Sastre has researched the generation and evaluation of several vaccine candidates against different diseases, including influenza, malaria, AIDS, and cancer; and identified the biological role of the non-structural protein NS1 of the influenza virus during infection. His studies provided the first description and molecular analysis of a viral-encoded peptide among negative strand RNA viruses, which led to a generation of influenza viruses that may prove to be optimal live virus vaccines against influenza. His work has resulted in more than 500 scientific publications and reviews, and his translational efforts include more than 50 patents and the development of viral vaccines in the veterinary and human fields. Dr. Garcia-Sastre also serves as Director of the Center for Research on Influenza Pathogenesis, one of five National Institutes of Health Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance. ### About the Mount Sinai Health System The Mount Sinai Health System is New York City's largest integrated delivery system, encompassing eight hospitals, a leading medical school, and a vast network of ambulatory practices throughout the greater New York region. Mount Sinai's vision is to produce the safest care, the highest quality, the highest satisfaction, the best access and the best value of any health system in the nation. The Health System includes approximately 7,480 primary and specialty care physicians; 11 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 410 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. The Icahn School of Medicine is one of three medical schools that have earned distinction by multiple indicators: ranked in the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report's "Best Medical Schools", aligned with a U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" Hospital, No. 12 in the nation for National Institutes of Health funding, and among the top 10 most innovative research institutions as ranked by the journal Nature in its Nature Innovation Index. This reflects a special level of excellence in education, clinical practice, and research. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 18 on U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" of top U.S. hospitals; it is one of the nation's top 20 hospitals in Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Nephrology, and Neurology/Neurosurgery, and in the top 50 in six other specialties in the 2018-2019 "Best Hospitals" issue. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked nationally in five out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 11th nationally for Ophthalmology and 44th for Ear, Nose, and Throat. Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Mount Sinai St. Luke's, Mount Sinai West, and South Nassau Communities Hospital are ranked regionally. For more information, visit http://www.mountsinai.org/, or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Got a question or tip? Contact us at bizmojoidaho@gmail.com. The Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) is taking part in a European research project called Just4All, coordinated by the ONCE Foundation, which aims to improve access to justice for people with disabilities through awareness and training of law professionals in the European Union. This research project is part of the area of universal access to justice, which aims to guarantee that all people can access legal defence of their rights, breaking down all kinds of barriers (physical, sensory, cognitive or attitude) that prevent this. "For this, it is important to create awareness among legal professionals in their work around these people's needs and to provide them with knowledge on their rights", asserts the head of the project at the UC3M, Rafael de Asis, professor of Philosophy of Law and researcher from the UC3M Bartolome de las Casas Institute of Human Rights. The aim of this project is to analyse the situation and improve the fulfilment "of a right (access to justice) that is the entrance door to the protection of all other rights", comments Rafael de Asis. In order to carry it out, the researchers will conduct a study on the regulations and barriers that exist in this area, in dialogue with people who have disabilities themselves, and they will start up courses and workshops aimed at the legal community. In this regard, on the 11th April a seminar was held on the UC3M Madrid-Puerta de Toledo campus during which topics such as the barriers for people with disabilities during legal proceedings and the consequences of legal decisions relating to their freedom were addressed. "Although access to justice is one of the fundamental rights recognised by the Spanish Constitution and which forms part of the International Agreements in relation to rights ratified by Spain, there are still a number of barriers in the way of this right being met in the area of disability. Physical barriers are the most visible, but along with those there are also cognitive barriers, which affect many people (and not only people considered to have a disability)", confirms De Asis. And this situation, he adds, is very similar to what happens in the other European countries. In order to achieve the proposed objectives, different actions will be carried out. On the one hand, an analysis of the state of universal access to justice for people with disabilities will be carried out. On the other hand, a massive open online course (MOOC) will be designed on this topic. What's more, a database on regulations, case law and good practice in access to justice will be created. Just4All is a project funded by the European Union Justice Programme (number 807006), coordinated by the ONCE Foundation, which will be carried out between 2018 and 2021 and in which the UC3M is taking part alongside other organisations and companies: European Association of Service Providers for Persons with Disabilities (EASPD), European Disability Forum (EDF) and Thomson Reuters Aranzadi. What's more, it has international support from the General Council of Spanish Law (in the Spanish acronym: CGAE), General Council of Legal Authorities (in the Spanish acronym: CGPJ), the European Foundation Center (EFC) and the International Union of Notaries. ### A study of over 87,000 documents obtained through Freedom of Information requests has revealed a contract mechanism that could allow Coca-Cola to "quash" findings from some of the health research it funds at public universities in the US and Canada. The study, published today in the Journal of Public Health Policy, identified several clauses in legal documents that give the company early sight of any findings, combined with the right to "terminate without reason" and walk away with the data and intellectual property. Taken together, these clauses could suppress "critical health information", and indeed may have done so already, according to the study's authors. Much of the research Coca-Cola supports is in the fields of nutrition, physical inactivity and energy balance. The authors argue that the clauses contravene Coca-Cola's commitments to transparent and "unrestricted" support for science, which came after criticism of the opaque way some major food corporations fund health research. Researchers from the University of Cambridge, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of Bocconi, and US Right to Know, call on corporate funders to publish lists of terminated studies. They say scientists should publish agreements with industry to reassure the public that findings are free from influence. "It is certainly true that the contracts we have found allow for unfavourable developments or findings to be quashed prior to publication," said lead author Dr Sarah Steele, a policy researcher from Cambridge's Department of Politics and International Studies. "Coca-Cola have declared themselves at the forefront of transparency when it comes to food and beverage giants funding health research. In fact, our study suggests that important research might never see the light of day and we would never know about it. "We are already hearing accusations from experts in nutrition that the food industry is copying tactics from big tobacco's playbook. Corporate social responsibility has to be more than just shiny websites stating progressive policies that get ignored." Consumption of high calorie, low nutrient food and drink is believed to be a major factor in the childhood obesity epidemic. Last year, the UK government introduced a "sugar tax" on many soft drinks, including Coca-Cola's flagship product. US Right to Know, a non-profit consumer and public health research group, submitted 129 FOI requests between 2015 and 2018 relating to academics at North American institutions who received Coca-Cola funding. The research team combed through the vast tranche of resulting documents and discovered five research agreements made with four universities: Louisiana State University, University of South Carolina, University of Toronto and the University of Washington. The funded work includes "energy flux and balance" studies and research on beverage intake during exercise. Coca-Cola's own transparency website declares that scientists retain full control over their research and the company has no right to prevent publication of results. However, while contracts show Coca-Cola does not control day-to-day conduct, the company retains various rights throughout the process. These include the right to receive updates and comment on findings prior to research publication, and the power to terminate studies early without reason. The documents yielded by the FOI requests contained no firm examples of Coca-Cola suppressing unfavourable research, although the study authors say "what is important is that the provision exists". All documents relating to the contracts are now accessible on the US Right to Know website. Emails show one scientist expressing uncertainty over his study termination ("...they have not communicated with us in several months") and concern over intellectual property. Another scientist is seen arguing that his contract is "very restrictive for an 'unrestricted grant'". "These contracts suggest that Coke wanted the power to bury research it funded that might detract from its image or profits," said Gary Ruskin, co-director of US Right to Know. "With the power to trumpet positive findings and bury negative ones, Coke-funded science seems more like an exercise in public relations." The researchers acknowledge that the food and beverage industry may be updating research contracts in line with new public commitments, but without seeing those contracts it is hard to know. They say their Coca-Cola case study suggests a continued lack of transparency that should be remedied with "hard" information on funding, rather than relying on self-reported conflicts of interest. "Journals should require authors of funded research to upload the research agreements for studies as appendices to any peer-reviewed publication," said Steele. "The lack of robust information on input by industry and on studies terminated before results are published, makes it impossible to know how much of the research entering the public domain reflects industry positions." ### Water fleas - or Daphnia - ensure their survival by reacting to a signal substance of their predators (fish) with flight. The zoologist Meike Anika Hahn from Professor Dr Eric von Elert's research group at the University of Cologne's Institute of Zoology has identified this chemical messenger substance, which the fish releases into the water of lakes. When the water flea detects the substance '5-cyprinol sulfate' - a bile salt from the fish - it leaves the upper water layers and descends vertically into darker regions. The fish are unable to visually detect their prey there during daytime. This connection between the signal of the predator and the behaviour of its prey has now been published in the scientific journal eLife under the title '5-cyprinol sulfate, a bile salt from fish, induces diel vertical migration in Daphnia'. Eric von Elert explains how crucial this communication between fish and planktonic crustacean is to a healthy water environment: 'The water flea is an important link in the lake's ecosystem because it mainly feeds on the constantly growing microalgae. It is crucial for the lake that the Daphnia remain in their natural habitat - the surface of the water - and do not spend the day in the depths where they cannot find any algae. Therefore, it is important to know exactly which signal the water flea reacts to.' Daphnia migrate up to 60 metres up and down the water column every day. The bile salt in question is vital for the metabolism of fish, which is why, from an evolutionary perspective, they cannot stop releasing it into the water. Now that the substance has been identified, follow-up studies can be carried out to explore whether the fish are actually solely responsible for high concentrations of 5-cyprinol sulphate. 'It is possible that the substance also comes from contamination from wastewater facilities,' says Professor von Elert. In aquatic systems such as lakes, an enormous number of chemical reactions and interactions take place that the scientists need to understand the basics of. Especially if an intact system is disturbed from the outside, this can have serious consequences. 'Ultimately, we want to find out how we might be able to restore the biological balance by adding specific natural ingredients', von Elert concludes. ### For most native English-speakers, learning the Mandarin Chinese language from scratch is no easy task. Learning it in a class that essentially compresses a one-semester college course into a single month of intensive instruction -- and agreeing to have your brain scanned before and after--might seem even more daunting. But the 24 Americans who did just that have enabled University of Delaware cognitive neuroscientist Zhenghan Qi and her colleagues to make new discoveries about how adults learn a foreign language. The study, published in May in the journal NeuroImage, focused on the roles of the brain's left and right hemispheres in language acquisition. The findings could lead to instructional methods that potentially improve students' success in learning a new language. "The left hemisphere is known as the language-learning part of the brain, but we found that it was the right hemisphere that determined the eventual success" in learning Mandarin, said Qi, assistant professor of linguistics and cognitive science. "This was new," she said. "For decades, everyone has focused on the left hemisphere, and the right hemisphere has been largely overlooked." The left hemisphere is undoubtedly important in language learning, Qi said, noting that clinical research on individuals with speech disorders has indicated that the left side of the brain is in many ways the hub of language processing. But, she said, before any individuals -- infants learning their native language or adults learning a second language -- begin processing such aspects of the new language as vocabulary and grammar, they must first learn to identify its basic sounds or phonological elements. It's during that process of distinguishing "acoustic details" of sounds where the right side of the brain is key, according to the new findings. Researchers began by exposing the 24 participants in the study to pairs of sounds that were similar but began with different consonants, such as "bah" and "nah," and having them describe the tones, Qi said. "We asked: Were the tones of those two sounds similar or different?" she said. "We used the brain activation patterns during this task to predict who would be the most successful learners" of the new language. The study continued by teaching the participants in a setting designed to replicate a college language class, although the usual semester was condensed into four weeks of instruction. Students attended class for three and a half hours a day, five days a week, completed homework assignments and took tests. "Our research is the first to look at attainment and long-term retention of real-world language learned in a classroom setting, which is how most people learn a new language," Qi said. By scanning each participant's brain with functional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) at the beginning and end of the project, the scientists were able to see which part of the brain was most engaged while processing basic sound elements in Mandarin. To their surprise, they found that -- although, as expected, the left hemisphere showed a substantial increase of activation later in the learning process -- the right hemisphere in the most successful learners was most active in the early, sound-recognition stage. "It turns out that the right hemisphere is very important in processing foreign speech sounds at the beginning of learning," Qi said. She added that the right hemisphere's role then seems to diminish in those successful learners as they continue learning the language. Additional research will investigate whether the findings apply to those learning other languages, not just Mandarin. The eventual goal is to explore whether someone can practice sound recognition early in the process of learning a new language to potentially improve their success. "We found that the more active the right hemisphere is, the more sensitive the listener is to acoustic differences in sound," Qi said. "Everyone has different levels of activation, but even if you don't have that sensitivity to begin with, you can still learn successfully if your brain is plastic enough." Researchers can't say for certain how to apply these findings to real-life learning, but when it comes down to it, "Adults are trainable," Qi said. "They can train themselves to become more sensitive to foreign speech sounds." ### More about the research The research was done at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where Qi conducted postdoctoral training at the McGovern Institute for Brain Research before joining the UD faculty in 2017. She is an assistant professor in the Department of Linguistics and Cognitive Science and has joint appointments in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and the Communication Sciences and Disorders Program. The NeuroImage paper was co-authored with colleagues at MIT and at Northeastern and Boston universities, and the research was supported by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Advancements in zero-emission fuel cells could make the technology cheap enough to replace traditional gasoline engines in vehicles, according to researchers at the University of Waterloo. The researchers have developed a new fuel cell that lasts at least 10 times longer than current technology, an improvement that would make them economically practical, if mass-produced, to power vehicles with electricity. "With our design approach, the cost could be comparable or even cheaper than gasoline engines," said Xianguo Li, director of the Fuel Cell and Green Energy Lab at Waterloo. "The future is very bright. This is clean energy that could boom." Researchers initially concentrated on hybrid vehicles, which now have gas engines as well as batteries due to issues involving limited driving range and long charging times. Existing fuel cells could theoretically replace those gas engines, which power generators to recharge batteries while hybrid vehicles are in operation, but are impractical because they are too expensive. The researchers solved that problem with a design that makes fuel cells far more durable by delivering a constant, rather than fluctuating, amount of electricity. That means the cells, which produce electricity from the chemical reaction when hydrogen and oxygen are combined to make water, can be far simpler and therefore far cheaper. "We have found a way to lower costs and still satisfy durability and performance expectations," said Li, a professor of mechanical and mechatronics engineering. "We're meeting economic targets while providing zero emissions for a transportation application." Researchers hope the introduction of fuel cells in hybrid vehicles will lead to mass production and lower unit costs. That could pave the way for the replacement of both batteries and gas engines entirely by providing an affordable, safe, dependable, clean source of electrical power. "This is a good first step, a transition to what could be the answer to the internal combustion engine and the enormous environmental harm it does," said Li. Li collaborated with lead researcher Hongtao Zhang, a former post-doctoral fellow, Waterloo mathematics professor Xinzhi Liu and Jinyue Yan, an energy expert and professor in Sweden. ### A paper on their work, Enhancing fuel cell durability for fuel cell plug-in hybrid electric vehicles through strategic power management, appears in the journal Applied Energy. For more information about engineering research at the University of Waterloo, please visit: https://uwaterloo.ca/waterloo-engineering-research/ A new, open-road test of adaptive cruise control demonstrated that the feature, designed to make driving easier by continuously adjusting a vehicle's speed in response to the car ahead, doesn't yet solve the problem of phantom traffic jams. Because human drivers are responsible for the creation of this type of jam - which occurs without an obvious cause - the widespread use of these types of driver-assist technologies holds promise to eliminate these jams, if designed appropriately. "Our experiments show that today's driver-assist systems are not yet able to overcome the worst driving behaviors of humans that lead to extremely frustrating traffic jams," said Dan Work, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Vanderbilt University, who helped lead the research. The details of the multi-university team's latest experiments on ACC vehicles were presented in April at Cyber-Physical Systems and Internet-of-Things Week and were released more broadly on May 7. Their work builds on earlier research that showed adding even a small fraction of specially designed autonomous vehicles could eliminate phantom jams by keeping an optimal separation between cars and avoiding sudden stops. As vehicles with driver-assist systems such as adaptive cruise control become more prevalent, it is critical to understand how they influence traffic, said Work. While they potentially react faster and more gracefully to vehicles ahead than humans can, their sensors are not able to see beyond the vehicle immediately in front. That limits their ability to outperform human drivers, who anticipate changes by looking multiple vehicles ahead. Work and his collaborators tested seven different cars from two manufacturers on a remote, rural roadway in Arizona. They simulated various driving conditions with a pace car changing its speed, followed by a vehicle using adaptive cruise control. The team measured how quickly and aggressively the ACC system responded to the pace car speed changes. They drove the cars at varying speeds over more than 1,000 miles of testing, with the results always the same. "In each test, the following vehicle slowed down more than the leader, which is a signature of the creation of phantom traffic jams," said Benjamin Seibold, associate professor of mathematics at Temple University and another lead researcher. In one experiment, the team filled a lane of traffic with seven identical vehicles - all running the same ACC system - with a pace vehicle in front. Once all vehicles achieved a cruising speed of 50 miles per hour, the pace vehicle quickly reduced its speed by 6 miles per hour. In a domino effect, each of the following vehicles slowed down more and more dramatically so that, by the seventh car, its speed dropped below the minimum required for the ACC system to operate. The systems are currently designed for safety and comfort, but many research groups have been interested in designing ACC systems that have benefits to traffic flow, Piccoli said. A good ACC system for traffic is one that doesnt slow down any more than the vehicle ahead of it. But thats not what happened. Right now, the very best drivers are quicker at realizing what the car ahead is doing, said Delle Monache. Because 16 of the 20 best-selling vehicles in America already offer ACC, these technologies could help alleviate jams in the short term, decades before cars become fully autonomous, said Lysecky. We dont have to wait until the distant future to see traffic benefits from these systems if they are designed with traffic flow impacts in mind, Sprinkle said. Its achievable now with the right design, the right sensing, and the right communication among vehicles. Team members said they hope manufacturers ultimately will design vehicle automation systems that make traffic a concern in addition to safety, comfort and fuel efficiency. Sixteen of the 20 best-selling vehicles in America already offer ACC, which demonstrates their potential for impacting traffic decades before vehicles become fully autonomous. They said the next step is to design and demonstrate effective driver-assist features in real freeway traffic, paving the way for the next generation of vehicle automation technologies. ### Funded by the National Science Foundation's Cyber-Physical Systems program, the research was conducted by multi-disciplinary team of experts in vehicle automation, traffic flow theory, control theory and cyber-physical systems. Other lead researchers were: Maria Laura Delle Monache, research scientist on the Network Controlled Systems team at Inria Grenoble - Rhone Alpes; Roman Lysecky, professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Arizona; Benedetto Piccoli, the Joseph and Loretta Lopez Chair Professor of Mathematics at Rutgers University; and Jonathan Sprinkle, the Litton Industries John M. Leonis Distinguished Associate Professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Arizona. GBP/EUR UPDATE: The Pound to Euro exchange rates continued to shed value through Wednesday's session with Sterling briefly dipping below the key 1.16 level before seeing out the session marginally higher. After flattening through the Asian session, the British to EUR exchange rate was last seen at 1.1625 heading into Thursday's European trade. Reports on Wednesday from ITV that the government were on the verge of abandoning cross-party talks due to a lack of progress, while unconfirmed, kept pressure on the GBP, highlighting the centrality of Brexit to the Sterling's value and also market vulnerability to headlines. Thursday's relatively quiet on the data front with focus on Friday's host of releases on both sides of the English channel. For the UK, we'll see advanced estimates of first quarter gross domestic product growth - expected to register at 0.5 - along side the latest manufacturing production figures with consensus forecasts for a modest (0.1%) increase in the total inflation-adjusted value of output produced by manufacturers. For the single currency, relatively upbeat German production figures earlier in the weekly session put Friday's EU member state industrial production figures in focus with investors looking for further evidence of a bottoming out. In lieu of hard data releases, focus for the session will remain on Brexit-related news-flow. "To the upside, the probability of no Brexit via a second referendum and vote to remain... has started to edge up again in recent days. The downside is associated with.. the risk of May being replaced as PM which is rising, said RBCs chief currency strategist Adam Cole. Pound Sterling Euro (GBP/EUR) Exchange Rate Continues to Slump from Mondays Yearly High While Brexit speculation and signs of continued weakness in Eurozone data made it much easier for the British Pound to Euro (GBP/EUR) exchange rate to put in strong gains last week, the exchange rates movement has shifted in almost the opposite direction this week so far. Notably, todays German data made some analysts speculate that Germanys economic outlook was stronger than expected. After last week saw GBP/EUR register solid gains, from 1.1578 to an impressive 1.1760, this weeks rebound has already seen the pair shed almost half of those gains. On Monday, a brief boost in Brexit hopes saw GBP/EUR touch on a fresh high of 1.1799, which was the best GBP/JPY level in around two years since May 2017. Since then though, Brexit hopes have lightened and GBP/EUR has tumbled, trending closer to the level of 1.1630 at the time of writing today. Pound (GBP) Exchange Rates Slump Back as Last Weeks Rally Unwinds While the Pound has only shed some of last weeks impressive gains so far, it appears that overall there is little sign that investors will maintain the bullishness on Brexit hopes seen last week. Investors piled into the Pound amid a more optimistic tone from UK officials on cross-party Brexit negotiations. This briefly boosted hopes that a soft Brexit could be agreed soon and Britain would be able to avoid taking part in potentially contentious EU elections, but those hopes were doused this week. UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lidington confirmed that Britain would need to take part in EU elections, worsening market concerns that the ruling Conservative Party would continue to shed support. Analysts now believe that the Pound will become less appealing as the EU elections draw nearer. According to Kenneth Broux, Strategist at Societe Generale: the bias should be lower ahead of European Union elections in just over two weeks, a possible landslide for the Brexit party could cause the rift to deepen in the Conservative party and it could bring new elections closer. Euro (EUR) Exchange Rates Find Support on Latest Signs of German Economic Resilience In recent weeks, the Euro has seen mixed movement as Eurozone economic data has painted a mixed picture for the blocs economic outlook. While growth in the Eurozone was stronger than expected towards the beginning of the year, signs persisted that the blocs manufacturing sector was still highly underperforming. As a result, the Euro weakened last week when Markits final April manufacturing PMIs printed worse than expected contractions. This is why the Euro is rebounding following the publication of Germanys March industrial production report today, which saw a surprise improvement. German industrial production was predicted to contract at -0.5% in March, following a figure of 0.7% in February. While the previous figure was revised lower to 0.4%, Marchs result came in with an unexpectedly solid 0.5%. According to Carsten Brzeski, Chief Economist at ING: Despite many rather pessimistic headlines on the German economy and a series of downward revisions of 2019 growth, the first quarter might actually surprise to the upside. If Germanys economic outlook is better than expected, it could made investors more optimistic that the European Central Bank (ECB) will avoid further dovishness as well. GBP/EUR Exchange Rate Forecast: German Data Remains in Focus While todays German industrial production data beat expectations, other recent German data has still proven disappointing, meaning next weeks German growth rate report could still disappoint as well. The Euro is rebounding on hopes that Germany is more resilient than expected, but some of that strength could fade if upcoming German data disappoints investors. With no notable data due for publication tomorrow, investors are turning their attention towards Fridays slew of data including German trade balance and French industrial production. If this data impresses investors the Euro could see stronger support into next week. The Pound, on the other hand, may be influenced by a slew of UK data including growth and production stats on Friday, if the data surprises investors. However, as UK political concerns take focus again ahead of the EU elections later in the month, the Pound to Euro exchange rate is more likely to be driven by Eurozone data and potential political developments. The British Pound fell for a third successive day on Wednesday amid substnaitally pared expectations of progress from cross-party talks and the dawning realisation that the UK will be required to participate in European parliamentary elections, dashing earlier hopes that a deal could be reached beforehand. Aaginst the US Dollar, Wednesday's 0.44% slide in Cable effectively combined with Monday and Tuesday's deprecation effectively wiped out all of the Sterling's late-week gains last week - unsurprising given the gains were attributed to rumours of progress and the reversal thereof comes as UK lawmakers dispell said rumours. Speaking ahead of continued cross-party talks on Tuesday, Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington said "So far, every time there has been a majority against leaving with any particularly orderly deal, so we are engaged as a Government in talks with the Opposition, and with others across Parliament, to try and find a way forward that has maximum possible support amongst politicians of all political parties. "But what this now means, given how little time there is, is that it is regrettably not going to be possible to finish that process before the date that is legally due for European Parliamentary elections. For analysts, the longer the cloud of Brexit uncertainty hangs over the UK economy, the worse the propsects are for the Sterling with the latest development seen as further can-kicking and likely to weigh on the GBP. "The announcement that the UK will take part in European elections at the end of May confirms that cross-party Brexit talks are going nowhere fast. This also refocuses attention on a leadership challenge to Prime Minister Theresa May. Favour cable to 1.2950," wrote Chris Turner, global head of strategy, EMEA and LatAm research at ING. On the cross-party talks front, mixed messages from sources close to the talks relfects the overarching uncertainty which has been so apprent within UK politics, GBP pricing and Sterling-denominated markets over recent months. According to an official spokesperson from the government, while talks had yet to yield an agreement they had been "detailed and constructive" while one Labour party source said they were "robust" and another called the efforts by the government "disingenuous". Talks are set to continue today while PM May is also due to meet with chair of the 1922 committee. While the backbench group recently erred away from altering parliamentary rules which would have allowed them to bring forward a fresh vote of no confidence in PM May's leadership, pressure continues to mount on May to announce a departure from office date, especially following last week's punishing local elecctions. With expectations of a resolution of abandonment of cross-party talks in the near-term, the coming days could prove critical for Brexit talks and the Sterling - then again we could see a further continuation of the deadlock which has plagued sentiment as UK lawmakers switch gears to focus on upcoming EU elections. "Hopes of a cross-party consensus being reached are beginning to cool as both the Conservative party and Labour party appear to be losing confidence and trust in one another. In a data-dry week until Friday, Sterling will be driven by Brexit updates and sentiment trading," wrote Western Union FX analyst, Joe Manimbo. Amid low G10 volatility and persistent uncertainty, "GBP will continue to trade within a relatively tight range until there is more clarity on the future Brexit path," wrote Commonwealth bank strategist, Kim Mundy. Given calls for a second EU referendum to break the impasse, RBC Capital Markets' Adam Cole wrote that the "GBP remains trapped between domestic political risk (downside) and ongoing risk of a second referendum (upside; 27% probability)." Education is being open-minded allowing individuals to be themselves. As a retired teacher in the state of Washington, I understand what an excellent education is. It is not about money, tests, or rigid teacher training; it is about a balanced philosophy for left and right brain creativity. Free thinkers do not accept tyranny, laws that deprive freedom, and thought control. As a public school teacher with more than sixty years experience, I would like to explain about teaching. What is a real education? In the fifties, we taught to the needs of the student, and then it changed to the school district decided what we were to teach, followed by the state mandates, then the federal government had "No Child Left Behind". Current philosophy has changed the learning of our children, again. Test scores are only a number given to the results of the performance by a student on a given day on a skill learned. To pigeonhole a student with a number and compare them to another person takes away the individuality of the student's unique abilities and talents. Only if they have the ability to be creative, intuitive, and offer ideas beyond the confined thinking of the times is there real education. The United States has departed from our pioneers in education: such as John Dewey, Jean Piaget, and Abraham Maslow. Today, tests shame the student for not passing. This stops many students from graduating, and continuing on in their educational dreams. The focus needs to be on what a student does well to encourage a student to keep inspired. To compare one student with another is not real. Friedrich Froebel (b.1782) was an important contributor to education through his theory on education. In America, education began with Horace Man (b.1796). 1 "Man gave equal attention to methods of teaching spelling and arithmetic, the importance of music in school, and the contentment of physical education to promote healthy living habits." John Dewey (b.1859) adopted Froebel's principles in his experimental school at the University of Chicago. Their belief in "self-activity" and play were essential factors in child education. Dewey believed that human beings learn through a 'hands-on' approach. From Dewey's educational point of view, this means that students must interact with their environment in order to adapt and learn. It is the current philosophy of teaching the students to think in a box for the test rather than encouraging them to think outside the box. Teachers need to assist a student in finding their own abilities while discovering learning is limitless. Even Bill Gates and Paul Allen were allowed to use class time to work/play on computers. There is a movie, "Spare Parts, where the students were inspired and encouraged to think with their imaginations. They were winners as high school students, twice competing against the reigning victors, MIT. A balanced curriculum creates the potential for grand outcomes and high self-esteem A good teacher will drop out of the field because they are sensitive people. I was taught "success breeds success" in college classes for teachers' preparation. Recently, a college instructor supervising student teachers told me that her college students have problematic hoops and complicated challenges dictated from above that are almost impossible. Albert Einstein held that "Education is not the learning of facts; it's rather the training of the mind to think". You cannot teach a teacher to think with his heart. Education is not teaching to fill a student with book learning. Left-brain thinking is all about learning to pass a written test. Without a balanced curriculum, there is a robot teacher teaching robot students. With the changes of focus, creativity is discouraged because book learning and test readiness takes priority. Every grade has a test to pass and instruction for this test dominates the curriculum. When I taught school, there were four standardized tests spaced between grade school and high school. The teachers monitored the growth of each student in regards to subjects. My class had been working in a math book that taught the principles of multiplication and division besides the tables for multiplication. When my class totally completed the section including two digit problems of the test accurately, the average ability expected of a third grade student in math changed, dramatically. The administration did not want to look like their school failed the standardized test for their grade level in math. The teacher were told to return to our prior math books that taught by rote learning and memorization. My teaching partner and I could not understand why the book that taught principles and not just memorizing were not allowed when the scores were outstanding. We were also denied acquiring spelling books that really taught spelling, after the teachers spent two years piloting several programs for a book that did the job. Education is not teaching to fill a student with book learning. In addition, several teachers in my school had learned a program, The Slingerland Method. It included reading, English, spelling, phonics, penmanship, art, physical education, and composition. It was teacher Some of my first graders were reading at 5th and 6th grade level. Instead of approving the method that surpassed the usual results in a year, the administration told us that we had to use textbooks so the Board of Education knew what page of the book we were on. Did the inspiration from the hearts of the students leave, when prayer was removed from schools? When you remove prayer from school, the result is violence. Love is the basis of prayer. Sadly, with this not supported in the school people will act out from this missing. With a caring environment, there is productive, harmony atmosphere. Therefore accepting Maslow's peak experiences, transcending the individual ego brings a more advanced consciousness of peace and creativity. Our inner lives will promote insight and stimulation into higher consciousness of individual and original thinking. Drugging students to comply with a left-brain curriculum is unscrupulous. They have talents the educational system is disregarding and their futures are damaged. We learn from all students and allow them to have their own personality and individuality not forcing compliance preventing their contributions. "Education is not the learning of facts; it's rather the training of the mind to think." Einstein Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn". That is the kind of teaching I was taught for student classroom learning in the university in the sixties. This week a friend told me that her daughter- in- law took a new teaching position where they would allow her to have hands on learning rather than just book learning. This offers hope for more real education. Rev. Marilyn Redmond, BA. CHT, IBRT began teaching in 1961.Marilyn is a retired teacher from public schools (k-12), adult education, and college instructor. Marilyn currently is an award-winning international writer, columnist (2), speaker, consultant, and counselor. "To thine own self be true", is the best education we can teach She encourages, "Excellence in Education". Website: Angelicasgifts.com, angelicasgifts.com, books: http://www.amazon.com/Marilyn-Redmond/e/B0069WIKDC, 168 Lectures, interviews, and spiritual information on You Tube at https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=marilyn+redmond&page=1 CONTACT: Pamela D. Wilson 888-393-7754 Email: Inquiry_For_Pamela@pameladwilson.com Golden, Colorado May 8, 2019 The Caregiving Epidemic: Why Caregivers and Aging Adults Don't Ask For Help The population is aging. There are not enough geriatricians, doctors who specialize in medical care for the aged, to go around. Nursing shortages and shortages of good caregivers in hospitals and care communities exist. Caregiving responsibilities fall on family caregivers. Family caregivers work, have their own families, and struggle when the responsibility of caring for aging parents or loved ones is added to the daily to-do list. Caregiving arises suddenly and without warning. There is little pre-training for becoming a caregiver. Aging parents don't talk to adult children about needing care. An assumed acceptance of the role exists by aging parents. Rarely are there family conversations about the role of caregiving in family life. Aging parents don't want to be a burden. They know how their lives were affected by caregiving for their parents and grandparents. Why is caregiving rarely discussed? Does perpetual hope exist that caregiving may never be needed? It's Time to Take Off the Rose Colored Glasses The United States is not a society that likes to talk about aging, illness, and death. Yet this is exactly what we should be talking about from a planning perspective of "what happens if" or "what happens when". Caregiving and needed care are unavoidable based on population statistics of persons age 65 and older. Families disagreements result because of aging loved ones who need care. One family member usually bears the burden of responsibility while other family members look in from the outside. Probably thinking, "thank heavens I don't have to be the caregiver." Being the sole caregiver can be a very lonely and isolating job when significant time and hands-on care is devoted to caregiving activities. The aging adult feels similar isolation because of multiple chronic health diagnosis, declining health, and loss of the ability to do everything they once did. Why Caregivers and Aging Adults Don't Ask for Help No one wants to be seen as being incapable of fulfilling a family responsibility. Yet love only goes so far. Just because the family loves aging parents and others, does not mean that the family knows how to care for aging loved ones. Caregivers worry about making mistakes yet are hesitant to seek help. What is wrong with this picture. So many caregivers say, "if only this would change the situation would be better"not realizing that it is the caregiver who must change in approach and knowledge. And in some situations, the aging adult must become more motivated to perform positive actions related to self-care. Caregiving takes work. And caregiving situations, as long as possible should be equal in participation levels between the caregiver and the aging adult. Frustration, anxiety, worry, and stress are common. Aging adults experience similar frustrations wanting change but not knowing how to make change happen. There are no easy answers or surprise solutions to make caregiving easier. For caregiving situations to succeed and improve, hard work is needed. Knowledge, acquired by asking questions and learning new information can make caregiving easier. The problem is that caregivers don't know the questions to ask. They are in a world of oblivion until the next caregiving catastrophe strikes and they react instead of considering the actions that should really be taken to improve the situation. And when situations get worse caregivers and aging adults still are unaware of what can and should be done. The Questions Not Asked Cause the Most Significant Problems Pamela D. Wilson, a 20+ year caregiving expert has witnessed the struggle of caregivers who hope situations will improve. She has worked with caregivers and aging adults who refuse to accept help. The basis for not asking questions and not asking for help is, in part, fear. Caregivers and aging adults become stuck in comfortable patterns where the risk of standing still and doing nothing is more comfortable than taking a step to ask for help. The thought is, I'm already miserable how much worse can it get," rather than, "being proactive to avoid more unexpected situations is a better choice." Not asking questions of the healthcare system is another problem. Medical professionals use "medical speak" which is their own internal language that caregivers and aging adults do not understand. Not wanting to appear stupid, caregivers and aging adults do not ask questions. As a result, there is little motivation to follow through with health care recommendations, tests, and taking prescription medication when there appears to be "reason to do so." Caregiving Stress Results in Poor Decision Making Caregivers feel that they don't have time to add one more thing like caregiving support into their lives and busy scheduled. This means that many fail to join a caregiving support group or a take a caregiving course that can save time, frustration, and build confidence. Aging adults may be hesitant because they've been taken advantage of by programs making promises that are never delivered. The old saying, "if one fails to plan, one plans to fail" is even truer in caregiving. Reality shows that caregiving will not become easier. Aging will not become easier. That is, until those involved embrace a proactive mindset that helps avoid unexpected emergencies and that makes managing the day to day better. Online courses and programs for caregivers and adult adults are available through Pamela D. Wilson's website. As a caregiving expert, Pamela knows what can and will happen in caregiving situations, unless the choice to be proactive occurs first. For many caregivers and aging adults, by the time multiple catastrophes happen, choices may be lost and options very limited. Caregivers must change the mindset about caregiving from a "caregiving is a struggle and nothing can make it better," to "let's get help early to learn how to be proactive in managing caregiving situations so that caregiving is easier." As a caregiver or aging adult, ask yourself this question. Where will you be in one week, one month, two months, six months, or a year if you keep doing the same thing? Will the situation be better or worse? No one else can make the choice to make caregiving situations better but you. What choice will you make? -30- by Kristina Knight Kristina: We're coming up on the one year anniversary of GDPR implementation - what are you seeing in the data space currently? Mark Slade, CEO, Location Sciences: In terms of location data, we are seeing levels pick up again in exchanges, as apps get to grips with the new consent piece. While we are still way below pre-May 2018, it is starting to grow again. The shortage of good signals is making it difficult for the industry to scale campaigns. Now more than ever brands need to know the types of location signals that are used in the supply chain because when there is a shortage of good GPS signals, the temptation in the supply chain is to use less precise signals like IP. Kristina: How are brands/businesses in the EU responding to GDPR - are they testing new tech or are they holding back? Mark: We have seen brands pull out of location advertising in the UK and Europe, but it is starting to come back. It's still a great data signal if done properly. We are now also beginning to get interest in third-party verification of this data by some of the more forward-thinking agencies and brands, which is needed in this space to help bring back more trust. Ironically, despite GDPR, we find that the U.S. is way more proactive in implementing and testing new verification tools. U.S. agencies have more choice when it comes to location providers; therefore, they seem to be more interested than the UK in ongoing audits of their suppliers to pick the best ones. Preferred supplier deals and rebates in Europe likely have a part to play in this dynamic as well. Why audit your one preferred partner? Kristina: Location data is one area that was hit, so to speak, with the GDPR implementation, even for businesses outside the EU. Have you seen changes in how EU businesses use location data? What about the U.S.? Mark: We are starting to see more scrutiny from agencies and brands in terms of where the location data is coming from and the consent being given. Some agencies take the view that behavioral-driven audiences are too much of a stretch for consumer consent. However, the reality is that location data is still a dark art for most brands. They rely on what the agencies tell them, who internally get their lead from the location specialists. For this reason, there hasn't been much of a change in uses, but rather a more cautious approach to ad spend/budgets. Personally, I think if the industry was a bit more transparent it would help kick-start the industry again. Kristina: For marketers that have a presence in the U.S. - which hasn't implemented GDPR regulations - and in the UK - which has implemented regulations - how can they ensure they are using data, and abiding by regulations, correctly in both regions? Mark: The key is to understand in detail where your ads are running, the signals being used (GPS or IP/Wi-Fi) and, to some extent, the consent being gained from consumers. Both GDPR in the EU and the California Consumer Privacy Act in the U.S. mean that brands are effectively on the hook for this, so in theory they should want to know the details. However, the reality is that very few brands ask any questions, as they are told with supreme confidence from the supply chain that everything is still perfect. This needs to change, and brands that run a lot of location advertising would ideally do more to learn the intricacies. Tags: advertising, data trends, digital marketing, ecommerce, GDPR, GDPR update, Location Sciences, UK advertising GDPR President Donald Trumps threat this week to raise tariffs on some $200 billion worth of Chinese products is bad news for Texas sorghum growers whove seen a rebound in Chinese orders and the best planting soils in memory. Citing slow progress in trade talks with China, Trump on Sunday said his administration would boost tariffs currently set at 10% to 25% on Friday. Thats not what we wanted to hear if youre trying to get the sorghum market opened back up, said Calvin Trostle, a Lubbock-based agronomist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. The United States is the worlds leading producer of sorghum, a cereal grain that is largely used as an animal feed. Texas farmers grow almost a third of the U.S. crop, and China is by far the largest market. In 2017, the Chinese imported about 4.76 million tons of sorghum, valued about $1.1 billion. On March 7, the National Sorghum Producers trumpeted a sale of 2.6 million bushels to China, Chinas first significant purchase of U.S. sorghum since February 2018. Despite Chinas existing tariffs on U.S. imports, the past few months have seen China-bound shiploads of sorghum setting out from Texas ports not at the levels before the tariff tit-for-tats, but enough to give sorghum growers hope they havent lost their largest market entirely. The way Sinton farmer Bobby Nedbalek sees it, the Chinese could only hold out so long from what has become a hot commodity. For one thing, its a base for baijiu, a clear, high-proof liquor that, thanks to Chinese consumption, is the worlds most popular spirit. For another, African swine flu has been wiping out hog farms and, with them, Chinas leading source of animal protein. Sorghum is a preferred feed for ducks, another favorite meat. On ExpressNews.com: Read about Chinese love of U.S. grain sorghum The United States leads the world in sorghum production, growing nearly triple whats produced in seventh-ranking China. U.S. producers of sorghum, which is not a genetically modified organism, or GMO, could benefit from Chinese concerns about genetically-engineered corn and soybeans. They really have to stick with grain sorghum for the time being because they want to use the GMO as leverage against corn prices, Nedbalek said. Thats really to our advantage in the grain sorghum world, because that means that theyre going to buy grain sorghum in some cases just to prove a point. But the U.S. sorghum outlook has dimmed amid the trade dispute. U.S. Department of Agricultures reports of planned acreage shows U.S. farmers intend to plant about 13% less sorghum this year over last. In Texas, planned sorghum production is down 16%. Trostle said current Texas sorghum prices are down about 20 percent from the premium they had been getting from Chinese buyers. Sorghum growers were among the earliest to feel the sting from the trade dispute. In what was widely viewed as retaliation against U.S. tariffs on Chinese solar panels and washing machines, Chinas Commerce Ministry in April 2018 enacted a 179% fee on sorghum imports following its determination the U.S. was dumping the commodity. China lifted that fee about a month later, then in June imposed a 25% tariff on sorghum and other U.S. commodities. On ExpressNews.com: Read about China's slapping 179 percent import fee on sorghum Tariffs on agricultural products such as the sorghum produced in states including Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas states Trumps carried in the 2016 presidential campaign were strategic. U.S. farmers knew they were pawns in the trade disputes, as did the Trump administration. In July, U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced he would tap a $12 billion fund to make up for farmers lost sales, without need for congressional approval. But that didnt help South Texas farmers against another foe: drought. Nedbalek said 2018 marked his worst harvest in more than 50 years of farming. He produced less than 200 pounds per acre, compared to an average of about 4,500 pounds. "We did not put a combine in the field, it was just so bad," he said. USDA data showed harvested sorghum acreage in 2018 down 35% in Matagorda County from the year before, 27% in Hidalgo County, 25% in Willacy County and 9.6% in Nedbaleks San Patricio County. So while farmers in northern parts of a sorghum belt that stretches from South Dakota down to Texas got trade-loss aid of 86 cents per bushel, many Coastal Bend and Rio Grande Valley farmers had nothing to sell in the first place and were therefore ineligible for relief. Its ironic and unfortunate that we also were victim of the weather, he said. That was a completely different problem... Those efforts did not reach out and help those of us who lost the crop. Crop insurance is meant to help with smaller losses, but not to make farmers whole following a total loss. Its like having liability insurance on your car only, he said. In other words, its not replacement costs. But thanks to abundant spring rain, things couldnt be more different this year, said Wayne Cleveland, executive director of the Texas Grain Sorghum Producers Association. The growing conditions and the condition of the grain sorghum are absolutely unbelievable right now, he said. Theres very little insect pressure, the weather is extremely favorable... so were a lot more optimistic on acres and volume than weve been in a long time. The decrease in the Chinese market, meanwhile, has forced marketers to find new markets. If you look at the trend lines, the grain markets have been damaged by this. Its really put a crimp in grain moving into China, Cleveland said. But you know other markets have picked up the pace. In sorghums case, Spain has bought close to around a million metric tons, which is huge. Lynn Brezosky is a San Antonio-based staff writer covering trade, agriculture and the economy. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | lbrezosky@express-news.net | Twitter: @lbrezosky Solar panels will do double-duty in a CPS Energy program announced Tuesday theyll serve as roofs to create covered parking in outdoor lots and generate electricity for residents who want to use solar power but live in an apartment or rented houses. Starting next month, the panels, 18,000 in all, will be installed over 2,200 parking spaces at 15 office buildings or apartment complexes in San Antonio. The structures will be amenities for building tenants who want to provide covered parking for their employees. At the same time, the panels will be owned by 750 CPS customers who want solar power but cant participate in traditional rooftop solar programs. It brings another dimension of solar to the community, said Rick Luna, CPS interim director of technology and product innovation. Its in the spirit of bringing more renewable energy options to our customers. Community solar projects date back to at least 2010 in the U.S. CPS put in place a small program for 250 households in 2016 at a solar farm in Southeast San Antonio. Experts, however, says installing the solar panels as a duel use for covered parking is a brand-new application. Its a extremely well-executed concept, said Jeffrey R. S. Brownson, an associate professor of energy & mineral engineering at Penn State University. They are using solar to create auxiliary revenue by shading parking lots. The monthly revenue from building owners for the solar parking roofs will be used to offset the cost for residents buying the solar panels, said Robert Miggins, CEO and co-founder of Go Smart Solar, which will run the new solar program for CPS. Miggins said the revenue will cut the cost of installing the residential solar systems by 40 percent. Related: Pioneer Energy Services sees 18th straight quarterly loss Still, the cost wont be cheap. Miggins estimates an average tenant who wants to use solar for 80 percent of their electric needs over the next 25 years would need to spent around $19,000 up-front. The silver lining is that community solar participants would be eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit for owning solar panels in the parking lot. On the other hand, they would not quality for a CPS program that offers $2,500 rebates for homeowners who install solar panels on their roofs. The utilitys first community solar program sold out in five months. The utility sold 10,800 solar panels on 10 acres in the Southeast San Antonio solar farm. Luna said the programs success prompted CPS to request proposals from contractors for a second program in February 2018. Go Smart Solar was chosen out of seven applicants, Luna said. The Sierra Club, which has criticized CPS for not being aggressive enough in adding alternative power to its generation mix, applauded Tuesdays announcement. San Antonians know that nothing is hotter than the inside of a car thats been parked full South Texas sun especially as global warming drives our summer temps ever higher, said Sierra Club clean-energy organizer Greg Harman. That makes covered parking is a coveted commodity. CPS generates around 20 percent of its energy mix from solar and wind, or about 1,500 megawatts. Given that scale, the new community solar project is tiny, generating five megawatts. The 2016 community solar project generates 1 megawatt of energy. Related: CPS Energy advisory panel's closed-door meetings to be open partially Construction should begin next month on the first 180 spaces of solar panel-covered parking at the Austin Highway Business Center in Northeast San Antonio, said Charlie Fulton, vice president of development at Worth & Associates, which owns the complex. Its an amenity for commercial tenants, he said. There is a market for covered parking. Fulton said Worth & Associates also supports going green and lowering the carbon footprint. He said Worth will pay a nominal fee to Go Smart Solar monthly for the covered parking, and that the firm will offer the structures to commercial renters for an additional charge. randy.diamond@express-news.net Trinity University students are calling on the administration to stop serving Chick-fil-A meals in its on-campus food court, following a campuswide debate that echoed the City Councils vote to remove the company from an airport concessions contract. In a resolution passed unanimously, the Student Government Association wrote last week that Trinitys values of diversity and inclusion and Chick-fil-as values regarding the LGBT+ community are mutually exclusive. Chick-fil-A does not have a restaurant on the campus, but its food is available on a rotating basis, typically once every two weeks, with other restaurant chains at the Commons Food Court. The resolution adopted May 1 by the group cited the companys donations to the Salvation Army, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Paul Anderson Youth Home, as well as its score of zero on the Washington-based Human Rights Campaigns 2015 Corporate Equality Index for failing to protect their LGBT+ employees from discrimination in the workplace. Underrepresented students from the LGBT+ community have expressed the drastic assault on their identities and beings as a result of Chick-fil-as ideals and actions, and SGA stands to represent all students regardless of the size of the community, the resolution said. Trinity is a university that emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Having Chick-fil-a in the rotation at Revolve conflicts with those values. On ExpressNews.com: Coming to San Antonios airport: Smoke Shack, Local Coffee and a Spurs store but not Chick-fil-A and Gervins bar is out Ty Tinker, student government president, said the association decided to take up the issue after a lot of proactive folks, including PRIDE (Trinitys student LGBT group), came to student government and university administrators. He and other officers are nonvoting members. Resolutions are nonbinding but are a way to make recommendations to administrators, Tinker said. Conversations about the restaurant chains presence on campus have played out in student meetings and in the pages of the Trinitonian, the student newspaper, in the wake of the council vote in March to exclude the company from a contract at the airport. The councils decision to go after Chick-fil-As values prompted the Trinity chapter of the Young Conservatives of Texas to protest by holding a social event at a Chick-fil-A off campus, said the groups president, Isaiah Mitchell. As a student group, the Young Conservatives would like to see Chick-fil-A back in the airport, as a symbolic presence and a reaffirmation of the First Amendment, Mitchell said. Unlike the city, however, Trinity is a private institution, he added. If they decide to remove Chick-fil-A, thats well within their rights. He disputed the claim that Chick-fil-A hurts or harms LGBT people. The Salvation Army, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, these other organizations that Chick-fil-A supports, do not actually cause harm to the LGBT community, he said, adding that lobbying against the political goals of the LGBTQ left does not equate to actually harming. The Trinitonian and the dean of students office co-sponsored a forum about Chick-fil-A on April 17. Related: San Antonio city councils Chick-fil-A vote sets off national firestorm on Twitter Its our tradition and responsibility to foster open, free dialogue about issues of importance to our students, Vice President for Strategic Communications Tess Coody-Anders said in a statement. Were proud of our students willingness to engage in difficult conversations and to amplify the voices of those who are often underrepresented and overlooked. Chick-fil-A was added to the food court rotation less than a year ago by Aramark, which has a five-year contract as the universitys food service vendor. Aramark is taking the recommendation into consideration as part of a normal process this summer in which revolving food service vendors are evaluated for the next school year, Coody-Anders said. The university does not contract directly with Chick-fil-A, but has the final decision. Officials at St. Marys University, the University of the Incarnate Word and the University of Texas at San Antonio, all of which have Chick-fil-A licensee locations inside campus buildings, said no action is underway to close those sites. Zoe Brigman, a sophomore at St. Marys and president of Safe Space, a student LGBT group, said there isnt much of a campus debate about it, and even within her group, there isnt a general consensus on the company and its presence at the school. Brigman, who is Catholic, said there is a distinction between being Christian and being homophobic that has been lost in the conversation about the company and its leaderships beliefs and donations. Whenever you buy something from there, you are giving the CEO money and hes the one making those donations and stuff, Brigman said. Its up to each individual person to decide whether they want to support the company. Chick-fil-A was on the menu Tuesday at Trinitys Commons Food Court, and students there offered mixed opinions on the companys future on campus. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio City Council rejects Brockhouses effort to reconsider Chick-fil-A contract I think its a good decision to remove it, first-year student Meredith Anderson said, but she added that whether the company stays or leaves, students can make consumer decisions on their own. I dont personally agree in the slightest with the companys views, she said. If its within Chick-fil-As rights to hold those ideologies, then its well within the citys right and Trinitys right to ask Chick-fil-A not to return to campus or be in the airport, she said. Sophomore Christopher Ault said only a small minority of students have pushed to remove Chick-fil-A. I like the values that it stands for, he said, citing the companys Christian beliefs, Sunday closures and friendly service. Photo by Steve Bennett /Photo by Steve Bennett The University of the Incarnate Word has received a $1 million gift to create an endowed scholarship for fine arts students from the Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation, which is also the namesake of the schools Kelso Art Gallery and Kelso Art Center. The scholarships will support students with significant academic and artistic talent, who lack financial resources for professional internships, exhibitions, service-learning and other experiences, UIW said in a news release. To most people, it looked like a typical window air conditioner, fastened to the living room wall of Mercedalia Guzmans one-bedroom apartment. But to Guzman, it was more than just an appliance. It's been a blessing, said the 59-year-old, sitting in an antique rocking chair as the cool air blew over her neck. Guzman lives in a 50-unit community run by the San Antonio Housing Authority that provides affordable housing to seniors and people with disabilities. Until Monday, her only form of climate control was a small air conditioner purchased by her daughter that seemed to cool only part of the living room. Without that, she would have no air conditioning. RELATED: 'I suffered the whole year': Thousands of San Antonio public housing units lack air conditioning That changed this week, when Guzmans landlord installed a powerful window unit that could blow cool air all the way through the living room, kitchen and to her bedroom. She is among the first tenants to see relief after SAHA partnered with the city and private donors to come up with $1.5 million to purchase and install window air conditioners in public housing units that lack them. SAHA oversees 6,137 public-housing units, roughly 40 percent of which are uncooled unless tenants purchase and install the appliances themselves. Hundreds of those apartments were built in the 1930s and 1940s, decades before air conditioning was widely available. But even today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development doesnt require air conditioning in housing subsidized by federal tax dollars nor does it provide funding for the units. Instead, HUD generally discourages local housing authorities from providing air conditioning, unless it is paid for by tenants. In Texas, where temperatures reached 114 degrees last summer, that has resulted in at least 7,400 public housing units that lack air conditioning, according to a survey by the San Antonio Express-News. Almost 2,400 of those are in San Antonio, rented to families trying to climb out of poverty, the elderly and people living on fixed incomes. According to SAHA, families living in public housing earn on average $9,700 each year, well below the federal poverty level and the citys median income of $49,700. Generally, they pay about 30 percent of their income on rent. SAHA is first installing air conditioners in apartments rented to seniors and people with disabilities. Contractors began the work May 2, and by Tuesday morning, had installed more than 100 devices. RELATED: Around 2,000 public housing units in San Antonio don't have air conditioning; city hopes to change that The goal is to have them 100% installed by June 30, said SAHA CEO David Nisivoccia. Each air conditioner costs roughly $315, plus $100 to install. Tenants who receive them will be given $15 to help cover electricity costs and are being encouraged to work with CPS Energy to find ways to reduce their bills. Starting later this month, CPS will also be offering events where residents can learn more about rebates and saving electricity. As soon as the devices are installed, residents are taught how to set them on energy saver mode. Its pretty simple just on and off, Emilio Escamilla, an air conditioning technician, told resident Delia Hewitty shortly after installing the window unit in her living room Tuesday afternoon. Buzzing of electric drills echoed through the Pin Oak I Apartments, an otherwise quiet community in northwest San Antonio. As Escamilla explained to Hewitty how to use each button to control the temperature, timer and electricity usage, a smile spread across her face. Within minutes of turning it on, the air blowing out of the appliance became frigid. I think this one is going to cool the whole apartment, the 66-year-old said, adding that she spent $500 on an air conditioner shortly after she moved into the apartment four years ago, but it barely seemed to do the job anymore. The SAHA apartments without air conditioning make up one-quarter of all uncooled homes an estimated 9,600 in the San Antonio metropolitan area, according to census estimates. For decades, the sometimes sweltering conditions were largely unaddressed by local officials. That changed last summer, when state Rep. Diego Bernal was at a community meeting and talked to a mother who said her apartment didnt have air conditioning. Bernal then spearheaded a public-private partnership. Under the agreement, SAHA will pitch in $500,000; another $500,000 will come from private donors; and city will cover the remaining $500,000. The effort is moving forward, with the exception of one roadblock: HUD hasnt yet given the city permission to spend its $500,000 on the project. Thats because the city has proposed to pay for its portion using federal grant money, which must be used to fund permanent upgrades, said San Antonio Deputy City Manager Peter Zanoni. Window units are far cheaper and quicker to install than other types of air conditioners, but HUD so far wont consider the appliances as permanently affixed. They're digging their heels in terms of it being a permanent fixture, even though we show them pictures of mockups and actual installations that include tamper-proof screws and show they are really permanently affixed, Zanoni said. To speed up the process, U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-San Antonio, sent a letter to HUDs San Antonio office, urging the agency to approve the creative approach to solving the problem. It is unacceptable that so many of our neighbors even those who are elderly and disabled are suffering in the dangerous Texas heat with no reprieve, in housing that is supposed to provide them real shelter, Doggett said. A spokeswoman for HUD said the agency is working on the issue and expects to make a final decision soon. Marina Starleaf Riker is an investigative reporter for the San Antonio Express-News with extensive experience covering affordable housing, inequality and disaster recovery. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | marina.riker@express-news.net | Twitter: @MarinaStarleaf Immigrants are contributing billions of dollars a year to the San Antonio economy, pouring hundreds of millions into Social Security and Medicare, and are disproportionately filling science, technology and engineering jobs, according to a new study. About 30 percent of San Antonios business owners are immigrants, even though they make up only 13.5 percent of the citys population. About a fourth of the foreign-born population works in construction. The immigrant community is literally building the city up as we grow, said Kate Brick, a New American Economy director who presented the study to city leaders and immigration advocates Tuesday at the Central Library. The report, based on 2017 data, was produced through a collaboration between the city, the Chamber of Commerce and the New American Economy, a bipartisan organization launched by philanthropist Michael Bloomberg and media mogul Rupert Murdoch. It aims to highlight the fiscal and economic impact of immigrants in cities across the country. Having a diverse community and having immigrants is an asset, so cities are starting to compete with whos more welcoming to immigrants, Brick said. 2017 data by the numbers: Immigrant residents: 200,081 Percent of population: 13.5% Immigrant spending power: $3.6 billion Immigrant taxes paid: $1.04 billion Immigrant enterpreneurs: 17,036 Percent immigrant entrepreneurs: 30.3% See More Collapse The report was compiled by the NAE after San Antonio was selected for the organizations Gateways for Growth program last November. The next step is a series of open forums, ending in recommendations to city, county and school district leaders on how they can elevate and increase the immigrant population. Were consistently not a drain but an economic driver, said City Councilwoman Ana Sandoval, who identifies as an immigrant. Last year, Dallas participated in the program and approved funding, based on the recommendations, to pay for more legal services and citizenship programs for its immigrant population, Brick said. Houston and Corpus Christi also have participated in the program, as well as other cities across the country. Immigrants in the study were defined as anyone foreign-born and included both naturalized citizens and undocumented immigrants. It heavily relied on census data from 2012 to 2017. The study counted 200,081 immigrants in the city in 2017. Mexico was the top country of origin, making up 64.8 percent of the foreign-born population, followed by India at 4.4 percent and then the Philippines. San Antonio has historically not been a big magnet for immigrants, said Lloyd Potter, the state demographer and interim dean at University of Texas-San Antonios College of Public Policy. We have a very significant Latino population, but its not per se a heavy immigrant population. As San Antonio continues to grow with 1.1 million more people expected in the next 20 years so does the opportunity for immigrant growth, Potter said. Many immigrants who come to the United States for economic reasons have relatives here who sponsor them, or are acquiring work visas. If San Antonio continues on its path, he said, there will be more immigrant families here that can then sponsor more immigrants a multiplier effect and more industries that would attract immigrants on work visas. In 2017, immigrant households earned $4.6 billion, and spent over $360 million on state and local taxes, and over $670 million on federal taxes. After those expenditures, immigrants had a remaining $3.6 billion in spending power. Meanwhile, undocumented immigrants made up 31.6 percent of the total immigrant population, or more than 63,000 people. The study said 41.5 percent, or 83,064, immigrants were naturalized citizens and 9,328 were likely refugees. Undocumented immigrants in San Antonio earned $1.1 billion, spent more than $100 million on federal, state and local taxes, and had more than $970 million in disposable income in 2017. Overall, immigrants received fewer social services than U.S.-born citizens. About 22 percent received Medicare or Medicaid, compared to 32 percent of U.S.-born residents. Immigrants also contributed more than $660 million to Social Security and Medicare. But immigrants over 25 years old were less likely to hold a college degree 22.2 percent vs. 27.6 percent of their U.S.-born peers in San Antonio and less likely to own a home, 53.4 percent vs. 56.5 percent. This is just the beginning. This is a population we want to see grow, said Richard Perez, CEO of the chamber. We want to welcome them to this community so we can grow together. Silvia Foster-Frau covers immigration news in the San Antonio, Bexar County and South Texas area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | sfosterfrau@express-news.net | Twitter: @SilviaElenaFF San Antonios police and firefighter unions have spent a combined $268,000 during the citys election cycle between Jan. 1 and April 25. In a report filed Monday, the police unions political arm said it spent just $5,000 between March 26 and April 25, as the mayors race tightened ahead of the vote. But the report brought the groups spending bill since Jan. 1 to $197,200 more than double the amount it spent in the same span during the 2017 elections. This time around, the group endorsed Greg Brockhouse for mayor and five council candidates. Union president Mike Helle has declined to say how the group divided its resources among the candidates, so its unclear how much money benefited Brockhouse. Were playing poker, Helle said. Im not going to show my hand to the other team. The fire union has been more explicit. While it spent less this year than it did in 2017, the union has said its concentrating exclusively on Brockhouse. In its most recent disclosure form, the firefighters union reported spending $31,481, bringing its sum since Jan. 1 to about $71,000. Before he was elected to the council in 2017, Brockhouse was a political consultant for the unions, which have feuded with the city for years over contract negotiations and other issues. As Brockhouse and Mayor Ron Nirenberg head for a June 8 runoff, the unions involvement has been a significant topic of discussion. Nirenberg has called Brockhouse a puppet for the unions, a characterization Brockhouse flatly rejects. When the specter of a runoff became certain Saturday night, Nirenberg attributed the close nature of the race to the unions, not Brockhouse. The only legitimacy in terms of the resources needed to run a campaign in the seventh-largest city in the United States has come from the two unions, Nirenberg said of Brockhouses bid. The challenger said the comments reek of desperation. The race is close because I have the right message and Ron Nirenberg has no record of accomplishment, Brockhouse said. The mayor wants to talk about money being the end-all, be-all? Well it didnt help him. On ExpressNews.com: Nirenberg, Brockhouse agree: Voters have a clear choice The mayors campaign outspent Brockhouses campaign by more than a 7-to-1 margin between Jan. 1 and April 24. Nirenberg spent $514,895 to Brockhouses $71,922. Brockhouse has raised and spent significantly less money than most mayoral contenders of late. While Brockhouse says he has been able to do more with less, Nirenberg argues his challenger has been freed of the obligation to raise support in the community because he has the unions running shadow campaigns for him. Helle, the police unions leader, said the groups simply are exercising their right to get involved. I think its wrong to be characterizing it as shady, Helle said. Were doing everything legally that we can do as a political action committee to support the candidates that we endorse. He said the mayor is free to benefit from other political committees if he can drum up that support. The new reports filed this week shed light on the unions activity in the run-up to the election, covering expenditures made between March 26 and April 25. While candidates had to file reports eight days before the election, political action committees only have to report on the fifth day of every month. The $5,000 the police union reported spending in its filing Monday was down from $78,835 in March and $109,501 the month before that. On ExpressNews.com: Public safety unions money boosts Brockhouses campaign Kelton Morgan, Nirenbergs campaign manager, questioned the veracity of the most recent report, since the union sent mailers during the time period in question that arent listed. Helle denied that allegation. Im not hiding anything, Helle said. If anyone makes that innuendo that were not reporting it properly we most definitely are. He said much of the unions planning is done well ahead of time. Most of the unions tab this year $172,303 went to the marketing firm Public Alliance. Helle said it was used for a range of services, from marketing materials to voter outreach. The union has reported giving Public Alliance $99,333 on Feb. 2, $41,666 on March 18 and $28,515 on March 20, among other payments. We had already laid the framework of what we needed to have done, Helle said. I dont know how he manages his campaign. They can be paid way in advance before they get sent out. Morgan said the payments to Public Alliance predated the City Councils controversial vote to remove Chick-fil-A from an airport contract, which was featured in the later advertisements during the most recent window. That vote was taken March 21. He said it would be unusual to pay a company in advance for advertisements it has yet to design. Public Alliance did not reply to a request for comment. On ExpressNews.com: As mayors race draws to a close, contenders pull no punches The firefighters union has spent nearly half its money this year on field workers for voter outreach. They go block-walking and speak with residents. Generally speaking, we concentrate our efforts on the ground, said Colin Strother, a union consultant. Going door to door, having meaningful conversations, saying, This is why we think Greg is good and Ron is bad. It stuck to that approach in the most recent report, using $21,000 of its $31,481 bill for field workers. The rest went to purchasing signs and push cards, along with administrative fees. Just shoe leather and knuckles, out there trying to talk to as many people as possible, Strother said. It also sent its members, which number around 1,700, to polling sites during early voting and election day. Another $13,248 was donated to candidates for nonmunicipal offices, including a county commissioner and state appellate judges. Both unions vowed to continued the fight through the runoff. Dylan McGuinness covers City Hall and local politics in San Antonio. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | dylan.mcguinness@express-news.net | Twitter: @DylMcGuinness Air Serbia will station an aircraft at Nis Constantine the Great Airport and launch twelve new routes this July after winning a tender to carry out scheduled air services declared to be of public interest from the south-east Serbian city. The airline was the sole bidder, despite interest from other carriers. As a result, Air Serbia will be the beneficiary of five million euros per year over the next five years in order to maintain the flights. "Several carriers showed interest in taking part in the international tender, which was carried out in line with European regulations, however, Air Serbia was the sole bidder. No objections have been made concerning the tender process. A contract will be signed with Air Serbia in the coming days", the Serbian Ministry for Construction, Transport and Infrastructure said. The Serbian carrier will launch flights from Nis to Baden Baden, Bologna, Budapest, Frankfurt Hahn, Friedrichshafen, Gothenburg, Hanover, Ljubljana, Nuremberg, Rome, Salzburg and Tivat throughout July. All routes will be maintained twice per week on a yearly basis, with exception to Tivat which will be served seasonally three times per week. "The routes declared to be of public interest were selected based on analysis and interest shown by distracts in southern Serbia. The Government of Serbia and the Ministry for Construction, Transport and Infrastructure seeks to aid the growth of underdeveloped regions through the launch of these new services and offer the public inexpensive air fares to some of the most developed areas of the European Union", the Ministry noted. The airline will be required to base an aircraft at Constantine the Great Airport with the capacity to seat at least 125 passengers. The development marks an end to Air Serbia's single base model. Furthermore, it will see the carrier serve Ljubljana, Rome and Tivat from both Belgrade and Nis. The subsidised flights will also result in the airline's return to Budapest after four years. It previously served the Hungarian capital from Belgrade until late 2015. Air Serbia will also resume services to Gothenburg, which were last operated from Belgrade by its predecessor Jat Airways in 2013. The new destinations will see the Serbian carrier serve a record ten airports in Germany, as well as four in Italy and two in Austria. In another first, the carrier will commence flights to a number of secondary airports, which are primarily served by budget carriers. The new services from Nis will top off a significant summer expansion for the airline, which will see it add a total of 21 new routes. Paris INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE CULTUREL IRLANDAIS Paris, 27-28 June 2019 We are pleased to host, at the Centre Culturel Irlandais in Paris, an international conference on Ireland and the First World War as part of the national commemorations for the Centenary of the First World War. The conference received the Centenary Certification from the Mission du Centenaire (project 07 CONF 0118) and is part of the French national official program for commemorations of the Centenary of the Great War. It is supported by the Embassy of Ireland to France. During the decade 1913-1923, Ireland went through a profound period of social, political and cultural changes, which together transformed the island. In less than ten years, Ireland experienced the repercussions of a global conflict, a rebellion, a war of independence and a civil war, not forgetting a constitutional settlement which had led to a partition on the island. The aim of the conference is to contribute to a fuller appreciation of the contribution of the First World War to the transformation of Ireland, while analysing the influence of the Irish revolutionary period on the varied political and memorial legacies of the First World War. As we enter the Centenary of the Paris Peace Conference, we would like a panel to be dedicated to the first diplomatic steps of Dail Eireann and the Irish Delegation sent to Paris in 1919 to negotiate the future of Ireland. OBJECTIVES The Conference has been elaborated as an interdisciplinary scientific gathering. We seek to blend history, literature, cultural studies, with international relations and diplomacy. Keynote speakers will deliver research-based talks and we hope to capture the attention of a large audience. PhD candidates are encouraged to attend and/or present their research during round-tables and panels in order to receive feedback on their ongoing projects. We believe the conference can give even more visibility to the place of Ireland during the Great War and send a strong message to the public as to Irelands participation in the war. On the evening of 27 June 2019, there will be a public event and a reception with members of cultural services. The conference language will be English. Graduate students, PhD candidates and early-career researchers are strongly encouraged to participate. There will be no registration fees. Associated costs will not be covered, even partly. We are particularly interested in presentations that fits nicely in the following themes: PANELS Panel 1: Ireland at the Outbreak of the Conflict Panel 2: Ireland in War and Revolution Round-table: What is left of the 1916 Rising? Panel 3: Ireland and the Paris Peace Conference Panel 4: Commemorations, Memories and Representations of the Great War in Ireland Round-table: Sense of belonging: Towards a Collective Memory? * SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE -Cornelius CROWLEY (Paris Nanterre University) -Emmanuel DESTENAY (University College Dublin) -Anne GOARZIN (University of Rennes II/President of the SOFEIR) -Pierre JOANNON (Honorary Consul General of Ireland/Historian) -Fearghal MCGARRY (Queens University Belfast) -Sylvie MIKOWSKI (University of Reims) -Cliona NI RIORDAIN (Paris III Sorbonne) * DEADLINE Please send your application (one-page CV and a 100-word abstract) by 31 May 2019 to the conference organizer Emmanuel Destenay (emmanuel.destenay@ucd.ie). Local historian and Norwalk Historical Society Board member Ed Eckert will present a slide lecture, The Battle and Burning of Norwalk, July 11, 1779, on Sunday, June 23, as part of the societys Remembering the American Revolution Lecture Series. Click here for tickets and more information. The Battle and Burning of Norwalk, July 11, 1779 details the events of the day when British Maj.-Gen. William Tryon with 2,600 troops faced Maj.-Gen. Samuel Holden Parsons and his force of 1,100 Continentals and Connecticut militia in a series of spirited clashes and skirmishes on both sides of the Norwalk River. Since 2003, Eckert and wife Madeleine have conducted in-depth research on the Battle of Norwalk and have discovered many new and intriguing facts about the event that culminated in the burning of the greater part of central Norwalk by the British, according to a news release. Eckert intends to focus on this turning point in Norwalks history with visual representations and incorporating the latest information. This year marks the 240th anniversary of the conflict, most likely the largest single battle ever fought on Connecticut soil. A reception will follow the lecture. Norwalk Historical Societys Mill Hill Historic Park Townhouse, 2 E. Wall St., Norwalk. Sunday, June 23, 2 p.m. $8. 203-846-0525. WOLCOTT - A Bristol man is facing more charges after he allegedly posted his ex-girlfriend's photo to an online escort service, according to WTNH. Police were able to track down Christopher Naples, 37, of Bristol, through the Internet Protocol address of his computer, WTNH said. STAMFORD City police officers gave a rousing welcome to their new station, which was opened to the public Tuesday morning, the 125th anniversary of the Police Departments founding. Using a colossal pair of shears, Mayor David Martin, in front of some 250 people gathered for the event, cut a ribbon to the $44 million building with the help of outgoing police Chief Jon Fontneau. Work on the project began almost three years ago as crews prepared to move the historic Hoyt Barnum House off the Bedford Street property. The site then underwent months of blasting through granite before construction began on the new 94,000-square-foot building. The headquarters more than doubles in size the station it replaces, built in 1956 and expanded in 1980. The departments longest serving officer, Capt. Gregory Tomlin, who joined just after Thanksgiving in 1971, said he remembered walking around the new addition to 805 Bedford St. with then-Chief Victor Cizanckas, who told him that building would last the department into the next century. At the time, it was hard for Tomlin to fathom, but the building surpassed even Cizanckass prediction. Over the years, Tomlins impression of the old building changed and not for the better. I remembered in 2005 saying the now famous remark, This place is a dump. It took us a while, but we now have ourselves a new shiny police building, he said. You just dont realize how fast things change. There is no word on when the old police headquarters will close. Although some furniture has been moved into the new building, no officers are stationed there yet. Martin said the city has seen great changes since the addition was built nearly 39 years ago, when there were 75,000 people living in Stamford. Currently the city has about 131,000 residents and may have already surpassed New Haven as the states second most populous city. This building a long time ago outlasted its usefulness, Martin said about the old headquarters. At the same time, this city has prospered, grown and the demands and complexities of policing in a diverse city in the modern ages is much, much different than 125 years ago, or when this building was first constructed on the street in 1956. It is unfortunate that this city took so long to come to the recognition that this building had to go. As well as thanking many who had a hand in helping to complete the building within a couple months of its initial target date, the mayor also thanked the citys police officers and firefighters. It is not the police building that makes them special. It is not the equipment, which is the measure of your abilities. It is what you do each and every day, Martin said. As I have said before, you put on those uniforms and you say to others in this community that if necessary you are willing to risk everything you have to protect this community, my family and the lives in this community and that is my definition of a hero. Fontneau, who is retiring his position at the end of the week, said he wanted to assure everyone in attendance that it was not every day that a building like this opens up. This has been a major endeavor and I personally want to thank you, Mayor Martin, for not kicking the can down the road by approving this project and investing in our community, he said. Fontneau called the old headquarters a tired, sick building that has many issues which come with age. For years, the city provided bottled water for the building because lead levels in the drinking water were so high. Five years ago officials posted warning signs for asbestos. I might add I was born in 1956 as well, Fontneau added. So, its time to go. The chief said the city has gone though many changes over the past six decades, including its boom period of recent years. We often joke that if there was to be an official bird to the city it would be a crane, Fontneau said to laughs. The new building, at 725 Bedford St., will allow the department to increase efficiency by bringing all of the units of the Police Department under one roof, Fontneau said. Currently the Training Division, Bomb Squad, Collision Analysis Reconstruction Squad, the motorcycle patrol, the police vehicle maintenance unit, the K-9 Unit and the Special Response Team are housed in other areas of the city. Fontneau also said the new departments enlarged parking garage should free up the many parking spaces the department has been using for its cruisers on Bedford and Hoyt streets. The chief said he was particularly happy with the large community room just off the police lobby, which can be used for the departments Citizen Police Academy, little league registration, neighborhood meetings and safe shelter for those in need. I consider every day of my service a gift for which I am very grateful, Fontneu said. Im proud of this city and Im proud of this police department and there is a very bright future ahead for both. Capt. William Mullin, one of only five officers still serving from the era prior to the 1980 addition on the old station, is a fan of the new headquarters. Its very big, beautiful. It is really nice and it is great we can house all the other departments in here, said Mullin, who runs the Training Division and joined the department in 1973. All the future officers coming on are going to appreciate it. jnickerson@stamfordadvocate.com A citizen of Mexico, who illegally entered the United States three times, will be staying here for a few more years. In jail. Fabiola Bastian Mojica, 38, who lived in Stamford, pleaded guilty Tuesday in Hartford federal court to reentry of a removed alien. John H. Durham, U.S. Attorney for Connecticut, said it is Bastian Mojicas third conviction for illegal reentry. Now, she faces 10 years behind bars in the U.S.A. when she is sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on July 17. According to court documents, in May 2003, Bastian Mojica, who at the time was a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., was convicted in Stamford Superior Court of possession of a hallucinogen and marijuana. Bastian Mojicas lawful permanent residence status was revoked. In November 2003, she was removed to Mexico. In October 2005, Bastian Mojica was arrested by Greenwich police and was subsequently convicted in state court of evading responsibility resulting in injury/property damage and possession of marijuana. She was also charged and convicted in federal court of reentry of a removed alien. In January 2008, Bastian Mojica was removed to Mexico In July 2008, Bastian Mojica was arrested in Stamford. And again, she was again removed to Mexico in August 2008. In January 2010, Bastian Mojica was apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol in Columbus, New Mexico. She was subsequently charged in the District of New Mexico with illegal reentry of a removed alien, and with violating the conditions of her supervised release related to her prior conviction for illegal reentry. She was convicted of both offenses and, following the completion of her sentence, was sent back to Mexico in April 2011. On Oct. 23, 2018, Bastian Mojica was arrested by Stamford police for a motor-vehicle violation, and was subsequently charged with failure to appear. On March 7, after her identity was confirmed through a fingerprint analysis, she was arrested on a federal criminal complaint charging her with illegal reentry. She has been detained since her federal arrest. Bastian Mojica is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Robert N. Chatigny on July 17, at which time she faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. The Most Extensive and Reliable Source of Information Related to the Mexican Drugs Cartels. You will not find this level of coverage anywhere else, join us! Send information, pictures or videos, you remain 100% anonymous. Envia fotos, videos, notas, enlaces o informacion todo 100% Anonimo. Borderland Beat? We love to have you in our team, send Sol Prendido or HEARST an email! Want to be a contributor or citizen reporter forBorderland Beat?We love to have you in our team, sendoran email! WARNING: Posts may contain strong violent material, discretion is advised. COMMENTS: We do not publish all comments, and we do not publish comments immediately. FAIRFIELD The Board of Education, citing inclusionary efforts and feedback from the community, has decided to move back the high school graduation time by one hour. Chairman Christine Vitale offered an apology and said that the board had heard concerns from community and school members about the graduation time, now scheduled for June 14 at 5 p.m. We wanted to be sensitive to those concerns that Fairfield public schools are dedicated to providing all students the equal opportunity to participate in school programs without discrimination of any kind, Vitale said. The Board of Education originally approved a 6 p.m. graduation time at its April 9 meeting. Vitale also advised members of the policy committee to get input from staff and community members regarding graduation dates and time for future school years. I would just like to apologize to any members of the community for whom the original setting of the time was a source of challenge and source of pain, Vitale noted. And we would like apologize to any members of the community for whom this time change might also prevent or pose a new challenge. At an April 9 meeting, Bob Smoler, president of the Fairfield Education Association, said that members of the community, particularly observant Jews, would have a difficult time attending the 6 p.m. graduation ceremony as there is a religious holiday that same day. The Board of Education approved the time change in an 8-0 vote with board member Jennifer Maxon-Kennelly abstaining. Fairfield Ludlowe High Schools graduation ceremony will be held at Taft Field and Fairfield Warde High Schools graduation at their campus. humberto.juarez@hearstmediact.com Members of the Class of 2019 at Fairfield University and Sacred Heart University were wrapping up classes and exams this week, ready (or not?) to confront their futures. We caught a glimpse of some happy soon-to-be grads, dressed proudly in their caps and gowns, as we drove down Park Avenue in front of the SHU campus Tuesday. And at Fairfield U., where my two daughters are students, dorms were being vacated for the summer and students were finishing up their last exams. Technology reigns at our local universities these days, with students able to use the cloud to file term papers, check their schedules, and sign up for classes. A far cry from my days at Fairfield U., Class of 1973, when class tests had to be hand-written, single-spaced, in the schools 12-page blue books. The blue books also made an appearance during final exams, held in the Campus Center Oak Room, where 100 or so lecture desks were set up and proctors roamed the isles to make sure students didnt exceed their allotted time. Surprising, in view of all the political turmoil and anti-war demonstrations that had taaken place during my years at Fairfield U., our commencement speaker that year was Dean Rusk, U.S. Secretary of State in the Kennedy and Johnson administrations, who was widely viewed as one of the architects of the Vietnam War. There were no demonstrations against Rusk during the ceremonies. He gave an interesting address, accepted an honorary degree from the university president, and moved on, as did we all. One wonders, given all the political discord in the country these days, whether politicians of both parties will be able to put aside their differences so easily. Its hard to imagine any members of the Trump administration being greeted without vociferous demonstrations on campuses in 2019. Members of the Class of 2019 will make those decisions in the future. For the moment, finding jobs that meet their burdensome school loans, and careers that match their interests, are most on their minds. The world is theirs to shape. The future is theirs. Our advice to the Class of 2019: Dream Large. FAIRFIELD As Superintendent Toni Jones heads off to Greenwich schools this summer, a familiar face returns to lead Fairfield schools. Stephen Tracy, a former interim superintendent of Fairfield schools, was named to that same position once more at the Board of Educations May 7 meeting. Three years ago, Tracy was brought out from retirement to lead Fairfield schools on an interim basis. Tracy has decades of educational experience, beginning as a public school history teacher in Westchester, N.Y. He served as New Milford superintendent from 1985-93 and Derby superintendent from 2008-2012. Reached by phone Wednesday afternoon, Tracy said he was excited and was looking forward to returning to Fairfield schools. I know a little bit about Fairfield, some things have changed since then, Tracy said. Its a widely admired school district with respected faculty. Tracy has also worked 14 years for a private company, EdisonLearning Inc. (formerly known as Edison Schools), that manages public schools and the state Department of Children and Families in a position where he oversaw education for foster children. Tracys appointment as interim superintendent comes at a time when a consultant firm hired by the Board of Education Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates is actively searching for a permanent replacement to Jones. At the May 7 meeting, the consultants said there were over 30 viable candidates as part of the recruiting process and that feedback from the community and students had been helpful in narrowing down the qualities expected in a potential superintendent. In earlier reports, the Board of Education said it was expecting finalist interviews to be completed by the end of June. The Board of Education said that details about Tracys employment would be made public once he signs his contract in the coming weeks. Im the same guy I was then except two years older, Tracy quipped. Im excited about the opportunity to support teachers and principals and help the school benefit the students that they serve. humberto.juarez@hearstmediact.com A Pembrokeshire dairy farmer is set to combat farming's 'solitary' nature by creating a 'care farm' to help farmers and others who are struggling. Eurig Evans, who is training to become a counsellor, hopes to invite people with mental health issues onto his 200-acre farm near Fishguard. Poor mental health continues to be the biggest health topic in the UK - one in four people have been diagnosed with a mental illness and in farming, mental health issues continue to be of great concern. A recent survey shows that 81% of farmers under the age of 40 believe that mental health is the biggest hidden problem facing farmers today, and 92% believe that promoting good mental health is crucial if lives are to be saved. The overall illness rate for agricultural workers is 46% higher than the industry average, and stress, depression and anxiety are significant causes of ill health alongside musculoskeletal disorders and lung disease. Speaking to the BBC, Mr Evans said that farmers don't necessarily see anyone in a day, saying: Leaving the farm, even for one hour, is therapy in itself. He now wants to expand his skills to reach his dream of becoming a care farm, so those suffering from mental health difficulties can visit. The farm will enable people to get up close to animals by encouraging activities such as lambing and milking. If you can turn someone living with heroin addiction around, you can do anything, he said. Economic development business Menter a Busnes has teamed up with Mind Cymru to raise awareness of mental health in Wales. It comes as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) identified stress, depression and anxiety as some the main causes of work-related ill health for farmers. Norway's new head of health has criticised the 'moral police' and said people should be allowed to eat as much red meat as they want. In her first days as the country's new health minister, Sylvi Listhaug implied that Norwegians shouldn't be told what to do when it comes to health. The comments come as part of an interview with Ms Listhaug conducted by Norwegian broadcaster NRK. The media outlet observed she was eating red meat, a food choice which has become unfashionable in recent times due to perceived health and environmental effects. My starting point for this with public health is very simple, she told the broadcaster, I do not plan to be the moral police, and will not tell people how to live their lives, but I intend to help people get information that forms the basis for making choices. People should be allowed to smoke, drink and eat as much red meat as they want. The authorities may like to inform, but people know pretty much what is healthy and what is not healthy, I think. Meanwhile, the Norwegian Cancer Society told NRK that her stance will 'set public health back many decades'. Before her new role, Sylvi Listhaug was previously the minister of agriculture and food. Her comments follow Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) saying there is no 'consistent evidence' to suggest that red meat, or any one food, causes cancer. Pointing out that other UK studies have found no statistical differences in mortality rates or bowel cancer risks between meat eaters and vegetarians, the industry body said a range of other factors have an impact on the risk of cancer. Northern Irish police are appealing for witnesses following a road collision incident involving a tractor in County Armagh. The crash happened north bound on the A1 between Drumsallagh Road and Greenan Road around 11:15am on Saturday 4 May. The other vehicle involved was a white Citroen van. There were no serious injuries. Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Craigavon said on a Facebook post: "If you were on the A1 at that time, witnessed the collision, or saw either vehicle prior to the collision or have dash cam footage of it, please get in touch." "The incident number is 483 of 04/05/19." Road safety advice for farmers An increase in road accidents involving tractors has led Cheshire Police to highlight important tips to help minimise risk. Transporting agricultural machinery from one field to another via public roads is a necessity for most farmers, the force says. Whether it involves moving produce during harvest season or relocating heavy equipment from one field to another, the only way to do this is by road. However, sue to their size and slow moving nature, this can be hazardous to both agricultural vehicles and other road users. Cheshire Police highlight the issue of mud being a significant hazard to other motorists, particularly motorcyclists, and can result in serious, even fatal collisions. It also says that it is inevitable that slow-moving vehicles will cause a tailback on public roads but it is important for the driver to pull over and allow traffic to pass at the earliest opportunity. Failure to do so can be frustrating for other motorists and can result in accidents if impatient road users attempt to overtake when it is not safe. They do this at their own risk. Lights should be kept clean and in good working order to make sure that other road users can see the intended movements of the vehicles. Amber warning beacons can be fitted to tractors which are not capable of exceeding 25mph to alert other vehicles to the presence of a slow moving vehicle. Under certain circumstances it may be a legal requirement. Dog owners are 'still allowing' their pets to attack livestock despite numerous campaigns educating the public on the issue, a farming union has warned. The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) said it is 'wrong' that farmers continue to pay for people's 'lack of respect' for the countryside and for farming families to continue to witness the effects of attacks on livestock. It comes after a number of incidents over Easter, including an attack on a County Armagh farm, which saw ewes, and their lambs killed and maimed by a dog attack involving a number of animals. Meanwhile, a young farmer from Somerset used social media to highlight the damage loose dogs can do when worrying sheep. UFU deputy president, Victor Chestnutt said dog attacks on livestock have 'far-reaching impacts' on farm families. Insurance may cover direct losses, but this does not compensate for the knock on impact on breeding programmes and flock genetics. It also does not take into consideration the unnecessary suffering of the animal, said Mr Chestnutt. He criticised the lack of understanding displayed by some dog owners, who 'cannot see their pets as potential killers'. One recently claimed to me that if a dog does not draw blood no harm has been done. This is a ridiculous assumption. The stress of the chase alone kills sheep, he said. He also stressed that those living close to rural areas must make sure their animals cannot escape to wreak havoc on farms. People view their animals as pets incapable of doing something like this. However it is in their nature and dog owners need to understand that in extreme situations farmers have a right to protect their livestock from attack, he warned. In response to the continuing rise in the number of attacks, farmers have suggested steps such as checking livestock regularly, erecting signs warning dog owners to keep animals on a lead, ensuring fences are sound and working with neighbours to identify and respond to threats from dogs. 2020 was a year marked by hardships and challenges, but the Fauquier community has proven resilient. The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you for your continued support, wed like to offer all our subscribers -- new or returning -- 4 WEEKS FREE DIGITAL AND PRINT ACCESS. We understand the importance of working to keep our community strong and connected. As we move forward together into 2021, it will take commitment, communication, creativity, and a strong connection with those who are most affected by the stories we cover. We are dedicated to providing the reliable, local journalism you have come to expect. We are committed to serving you with renewed energy and growing resources. Let the Fauquier Times be your community companion throughout 2021, and for many years to come. Westpac Banking Corp. engages in the provision of banking and financial services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Bank, Business Bank, BT Financial Group (Australia), Westpac Institutional Bank, Westpac New Zealand and Group Businesses. The Consumer Bank segment covers consumer banking products and services under the Westpac, St. George, BankSA, Bank of Melbourne and RAMS brands. The Business Bank segment involves in sales and customer service of small-to-medium enterprise, commercial and agribusiness customers under the Westpac, St.George, Bank of Melbourne and BankSA brands. The BT Financial Group (Australia) segment manages wealth and insurance division. The Westpac Institutional Bank segment delivers a range of financial services to commercial, corporate, institutional, and government customers. The Westpac New Zealand segment comprises sales and service of banking, wealth and insurance products for consumer, business and institutional customers. The Group Businesses segment is responsible for the management of the Group's balance sheet, group technology which includes functions for the Australian businesses and core support which covers functions perform Read More There is not enough analysis data for Track Group. 4.3 Community Rank Outperform Votes Track Group has received 100 outperform votes. (Add your outperform vote.) Underperform Votes Track Group has received 54 underperform votes. (Add your underperform vote.) Community Sentiment Track Group has received 64.94% outperform votes from our community. MarketBeat's community ratings are surveys of what our community members think about Track Group and other stocks. Vote Outperform if you believe TRCK will outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Vote Underperform if you believe TRCK will underperform the S&P 500 over the long term. You may vote once every thirty days. Previous Next Ishaan Hails Priyanka Chopra As His Favourite When Neha asked Ishaan who asked him who among his brother, Shahid Kapoor's ex-flames he likes the most, the 'Dhadak' actor was a bit flummoxed but later replied, "Oh gosh! Like the most, I cannot say, but I had the friendliest equation with Priyanka Chopra." Hmm, now that's quite an interesting answer. When Shahid Opened Up About His Equation With His Exes Talking about how there should be a normal vibe between the exes, Shahid had said on Koffee With Karan, "I think there should be eventually. If you are happy and if you are settled then there's no reason to be uncomfortable with other people. If you are uncomfortable with something and holding on to something, I think those are the times that we should probably be awkward because there's something within you that's not settled. But if you're happy with where you are, you always wish everybody happiness. I wish them all the happiness." Shahid On Priyanka or Kareena- Which Relationship Memories He Would Like To Delete To this, Shahid had told KJo, "See, my relationship with Kareena was longer and with Priyanka, it was shorter. I think the man that I am today is because of all the experiences that I've had. So I wouldn't want to delete any of the memories. It's taught me a lot." Shahid Even Had An Advice For Priyanka's Hubby Nick Jonas "Never back down, you are with the original Desi Girl," the actor had said on the show. When Shahid Showered Praises On Priyanka In yet another interview, Shahid was quoted as saying, " Priyanka is doing amazingly well I am very happy for her. She has made all of us proud. She always had the potential to become an international star and she has proved it." I Wrote GMAT Exam As A Backup, Says Kriti Sanon Kriti Sanon revealed that she had taken GMAT exams as a back up just in case her career in Bollywood didn't pick up. The best part is that the actress scored very high marks and her score was valid for a full five years. I Was A Serious & Studious Child! ''I was a very serious, studious child. I was a 90 per center. I think that's why I went for a BTech degree. But we always find our calling. I realised that I might have a problem sitting behind my desk everyday,'' she said to Indian Express. My Background Is Middle Class & I Found It Scary To Venture In Bollywood ''My parents were very supportive even though it's scary for them. I come from a middle class family. My dad is a charted accountant and my mom is a professor. To let their child go and explore in an industry where there is no security was hard. Every Friday is a new test in Bollywood. I had to convince them.'' My GMAT Score Was Valid For Five Years ''I also gave the GMAT exam as backup, and got a score which would be valid for five years. I told them, that if Bollywood doesn't work out, I will take that up. That score is not valid any more,'' she summed it up. On The Work Front Kriti Sanon is currently shooting for her upcoming period-drama Panipat and it also stars Sanjay Dutt and Arjun Kapoor in the lead roles. The film is directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and co-produced by his wife Sunita Gowariker and is all set to hit the theatres on December 6, 2019. Here's What Atul Said "As a producer, I face challenges everyday. What you have seen or heard of is one of those. Some challenges are small and tiring, while some are big but quick to solve. It was a part of the movie coming together. But Bharat seemed to have a mind of its own. The way things happened, we don't have any regrets." My Choice Was Always Katrina, Not Priyanka "Personally, my choice for the film was always Katrina, even when we were discussing whom to cast. The director's take was different - Ali wanted Priyanka. So for me, when Katrina came back in the project, it wasn't a setback in my head. I felt it was meant to happen. I'm consciously trying to cater to Bhai's fan base and there's a certain responsibility on me because it's an Eid release.'' With Salman, Nobody Looks Better Than Katrina ''I feel with Salman bhai, nobody looks better than Katrina. There couldn't have been a better time than making a film like Bharat. It's meant to be for them. Everything felt like a setback for a few minutes, but we were never facing a big roadblock." Priyanka Never Spoke To Me About Leaving Bharat "Priyanka still hasn't texted me. She never spoke to me about walking out of Bharat. It was a message I received on the set. I was like, 'It's okay, yeh ho gaya. But let's now fix it'. The news came to me via people. I understand she was getting married and was in love. So, it's okay because that's the bigger decision of her life.'' Was He Upset? "It doesn't hurt. But it upsets your planning. It's a Salman Khan film so the timing of the information left us a little unsettled for a bit. But we are fortunate to have friends and supporters who know that our only intention is to make a great film. Whoever saw that and came on-board, their contribution is priceless. It can't be reciprocated in words.'' Actor-producer Atul Agnihotri says his brother-in-law Salman Khan will play the role of a detective in the remake version of Veteran, which will be bigger and larger than the original Korean film. Atul has acquired the rights of the original film. "I saw the film and I liked it. I thought it is an opportunity to make it with him. It is a class film. I showed him the film and he felt the same. Salman has given a go ahead He will play the detective in the film," Atul told PTI. "Adaptation are never literal, adaptations are always a starting point. After that, you blend it according to the sensibilities of audience. It will have many big things, I have to make it bigger and larger as the expectations are huge every time Salman does a film. We hope to star sometime next year." Arjun Kapoor ADMITS He's Happy To Be In Love With Malaika Arora! The 2015 Korean film revolves around a detective, who hunts down a young and successful man running a crime syndicate. The superstar, who is currently busy promoting his upcoming film, Bharat, which is also an official remake of 2014 Korean drama Ode to My Father. It is co-produced by Atul and it also stars Katrina Kaif, Disha Patani, Tabu, Sunil Grover, Jackie Shroff. Asked why Korean remakes, Atul says, "I watch films in all languages it just happened that our heart was set on 'Bharat' and 'Veteran'." Bharat, directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, is set to be released on June 5. The director said his daughter Alizeh Agnihotri is working on the sets of "Dabangg 3" to gain knowledge before she enters Bollywood as an actor. "She is preparing (to enter the industry). I am happy the way she is approaching things. It is going great. I am happy. She is not working as AD, she observes things, she doesn't have a committed position. "For them, this environment is not new. She has seen films from discussion to execution stage. She is preparing, she is doing her regular courses, like in acting and other things. Her concentration is on acting. It is a long journey ahead." Challenging Star Darshan's forthcoming film Robert is creating a lot of buzz. The shooting for the same commenced on Monday (May 6, 2019). Apparently, D Boss will be sporting a never seen before avatar in this film. Besides his quirky appearance and different storyline, Robert is in the news for its female lead, who is yet to be finalised. And now, Darshan's fans want this Kannada actress to star opposite him in the film! Wondering who? Read further. Kannada Filmibeat asked fans on social media, who they would like to see act opposite Darshan in Robert. They were asked to choose between actresses from other industry, Sandalwood actresses and a newbie. The fans responded saying Rachu-Dachu would make a good pair. Here, they are referring to the Dimple Queen Rachita Ram. Besides Rachita, fans also named the other Nata Sarvabhouma actress. Some suggested Anupama Parameswaran's name for Robert. It indeed would be interesting to watch Anupama romance Darshan on-screen. After all, after Nata Sarvabhouma, she has gained huge fan following in Karnataka. Some have even suggested Anushka Shetty's name. If their wish comes true, then fans will get to witness Anushka in Sandalwood. However, these are only what the fans are wishing for as the makers are yet to finalise the female lead for Robert. When Ambareesh Said 'Fans Have Come To See If I'm Alive Or Dead'; Legendary Star's Emotional Words! Director Tarun Sudhir has confirmed that the team has contacted a few actresses, but none has finalised the deal. So need to wait a tad bit longer. I Have Not Done Anything For Them On his 63rd birthday, Ambareesh said that his fans come every year to see him on his birthday. He further added, " I have not done much for them. Still they shower me with immense love and blessing." It Was A Want Or Can't Situation Ambareesh also revealed that nearly whole of Mandya would travel down to Bangalore to see him every year. So he would often request them to not come over to his place as he would have to seek police and security's help to manage the crowd. It was a want or can't situation for him. Sumalatha Gave Him The BIGGEST Last Gift When the media asked Ambareesh what Sumalatha gifted him on his birthday, the actor proudly said that his wife gave him the biggest present by keeping to the promise she made to his fans. She got the Rebel Star back in shape after his medical treatment and he couldn't have asked for more. Ambi On Abhishek's Concern For Him Talking about his son Abhishek, the actor said, "He's a good kid. He is doing well in his studies. He is also concerned about my health, as to what might happen to his appaji. It is natural as he's the only son." BENGALURU, India, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Lemnisk is excited to announce its partnership with Infosys Finacle. Lemnisk, an intelligent and secure Customer Data Platform for Financial Services, entered into a partnership with Finacle as part of their Finacle FinTech Connect program. Finacle FinTech Connect is an ecosystem innovation initiative that brings together banks, FinTechs, and Finacle. Through the program, Finacle identifies promising FinTech solutions from across the world and co-innovates with them to help accelerate innovations for banks. With this Partnership, Lemnisk and Finacle will offer a joint solution that will enable Financial Marketers to improve customer engagement and conversions for their financial institutions through 1:1 personalization and AI-driven channel orchestration. "As banks re-imagine their business and technology landscape to stay relevant in the digital world, collaborating with the FinTech ecosystem has become a key imperative. Through our FinTech Connect program, we are nurturing a collaborative ecosystem involving banks and FinTech startups to accelerate purposeful innovation. Lemnisk is the latest FinTech to join our ecosystem and we look forward to working with them," said Venkatramana Gosavi, Global Head of Sales, Infosys Finacle. "We are pleased to be a Finacle Fintech Connect 2019 Selected Partner. Lemnisk's Customer Data Platform is already powering some of the leading global BFSI enterprises. The Finacle partnership reinforces our CDP offering for banks and accentuates our vision to be a vertical-focused solution provider. Becoming a part of the Finacle program provides us with an opportunity to work with Finacle R&D teams and also helps us in showcasing our platform to Finacle clients over 100 countries. We are looking forward to a highly productive 2019," said Subra Krishnan, CEO, Lemnisk. About Infosys Finacle Finacle is the industry-leading digital banking solution suite from EdgeVerve Systems, a wholly owned product subsidiary of Infosys. Finacle helps traditional and emerging financial institutions drive truly digital transformation to achieve frictionless customer experiences, larger ecosystem play, insights-driven interactions and ubiquitous automation. Today, banks in over 100 countries rely on Finacle to service more than a billion consumers and 1.3 billion accounts. Finacle solutions address the core banking, omnichannel banking, payments, treasury, origination, liquidity management, Islamic banking, wealth management, analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain requirements of financial institutions to drive business excellence. An assessment of the top 1250 banks in the world reveals that institutions powered by the Finacle Core Banking Solution, on average, enjoy 7.2% points lower costs-to-income ratio than others. To know more, visit www.finacle.com About Lemnisk Lemnisk is an Intelligent and Secure Customer Data Platform built for Banking, Insurance and Financial Services marketers. Marketers leverage Lemnisk to maximize customer engagements and conversions across channels. The key capabilities include: - CDP that uniquely resolves users across different data sources and channels. - Custom data models and algorithms created for Banking, Insurance and other Financial Services. - Intelligent orchestration of each customer's journey based on one's propensity towards a marketing channel and delivers higher engagement. - Hyper-Personalization that creates a unique real-time marketing message and experience for each user across multiple marketing touch-points. To know more, visit www.lemnisk.co Contact: Rahul Thomas Mathew rahul.mathew@lemnisk.co Director - Marketing +91-70191-82094 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883152/Lemnisk_Logo.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883153/Infosys_Finacle_Logo.jpg - Amb. Susan Rice, United States National Security Advisor (2013-2017) under President Obama, and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2009-2013), will be interviewed by Feedzai CEO Nuno Sebastiao on the main stage at Money20/20 Europe, June 3 - The Summit will feature stage content, breakout workshops with speakers from Citi, BioCatch, and others, followed by an exclusive reception with Ambassador Rice Feedzai, the market leader in using AI to fight financial crime, is launching the Financial Crime and Technology Summit in partnership with Money20/20 Europe, which will take place at the RAI convention center in Amsterdam on June 3rd. Industry leaders from prominent companies, including Citi, BioCatch, Feedzai, and more will present hands-on material to Summit attendees to help spread best practices around defending companies from security issues and financial crime attacks. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190507006189/en/ Image: Feedzai Ambassador Susan Rice, who was responsible for much of the global security policies during the President Obama administration, will be interviewed on Money20/20's main stage by Feedzai CEO Nuno Sebastiao. The session, titled "Banking on security: Global affairs, and the age of reputation crisis" will feature Ambassador Rice's insights on international security and policy, while Sebastiao relates those insights to the need for the financial institutions in attendance to invest in their fight against financial crime. "As National Security Advisor and Ambassador, I've spent my career working to advance global security and prosperity two inextricably linked goals," said Ambassador Rice. "I know how imperative it is that we engage the private sector in solving some of the most intractable problems of our time." "Financial crime is now one of the most important concerns for CEOs and regulators after so many highly public breaches and bad practices in the last few years," said Nuno Sebastiao, Feedzai CEO and co-founder. "We also know this kind of crime leads to serious human rights campaigns and international security issues like human trafficking and terrorist financing, so we are proud to have Ambassador Rice join us at the Summit as we work to solve these serious issues." Following the main stage presentation, Summit attendees will have access to an exclusive area for the remainder of the Summit and take part in stage content, breakout workshops run by leaders at Citi, BioCatch, DataRobot, PaySafe, and other companies, and then end with an exclusive reception with Ambassador Rice. The workshops will include topics around technology like machine learning, trends within fraud and AML, and tangible tools to fight financial crime. The Financial Crime and Technology Summit is part of Feedzai Frontiers, a global speaker series that brings thought leaders and industry titans, including Professor Stephen Hawking and Richard Branson, together at events around the world to address the most important technological issues and opportunities facing humankind, such as AI and ethics, the reinvention of retail, and managing risk in a digital world. See more about the Summit at: https://feedzai.com/frontiers/financial-crime-summit/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190507006189/en/ Contacts: Feedzai Seth Mcnew seth.mcnew@feedzai.com Regulatory News: Ontex Group NV (Euronext Brussels: ONTEX) (BSE:ONTEX) is hosting today an Investor Update in London at 11.30am CET/10.30am UK. During the meeting, Chief Executive Officer Charles Bouaziz, together with the senior management team, will provide an update on Ontex's strategy and next steps, leveraging its strong market positions, further growth opportunities and the Transform2Grow program to drive sustainable growth and create further value. Charles Bouaziz, Chief Executive Officer, declared: "Since its IPO in June 2014, Ontex has emerged as a leading international personal hygiene company, delivering consistently on its strategy to grow outside of Western Europe, increase branded business and expand its presence in Adult Incontinence. Faced with unprecedented headwinds and challenges in the last two years, Ontex has demonstrated the resilience of our business model. Yet, further action is required to take Ontex to the next level. Our comprehensive transformation plan, Transform2Grow (T2G), launched today, will step-change our operational efficiency and commercial practices. With T2G-enhanced commercial focus and competitiveness, we will accelerate execution of our two strategic priorities: Strengthen our current leadership positions and expand into new businesses and geographies within our core categories. Our objectives remain to outperform markets in which we operate and improve our profitability and cash generation. Together with committed teams, we will make Ontex a stronger and more profitable company, delivering growth and creating value for all stakeholders." FINANCIAL OUTLOOK 2019 Outlook Broadly stable like-for-like revenue*, Stable Adjusted EBITDA at constant currency Capital expenditure of 4.5% to 5.0% of revenue, excluding T2G-specific capex T2G financial investment of 130m One-off costs of 85m Incremental capex of 45m 45m to 50m of the total investment engaged in 2019, the balance over 2020-2021 2020-2021 Outlook Like-for-like revenue* outperforming the markets in which we operate by at least 50bps 2021 EBITDA margin improvement at constant currency** compared with 2018: +125bps to +175bps Working capital*** improvement compared with 2018: 10% Capital expenditure: 4% to 5% of revenue Cash flow conversion**** c. 55% to 65% Full payback of T2G investment expected by end of 2022 Like-for-like revenue is defined as revenue at constant currency excluding change in scope of consolidation or M&A. ** Net of the impact of the application of IFRS 16 effective as of January 1, 2019. *** On the basis of the 2018A reported working capital of 421 million, excluding factoring as per Ontex's definition (inventories, trade receivables, prepaid expenses and other receivables minus trade payables, accrued expenses and other payables). **** Cash flow conversion is calculated as (Adj. EBITDA Capex Change in Working Capital) Adj. EBITDA. Ontex's Investor Update covers the following points: Transformation well underway Since its IPO in 2014, Ontex has transformed itself from a European-based manufacturer into a leading international personal hygiene company Ontex has delivered geographic expansion and growth in sales and profit since its IPO Strategic objectives have been supported by selective acquisitions: Serenity in Italy (2013), Grupo Mabe in Mexico (2016) and Hypermarcas's personal care activities in Brazil (2017) Unprecedented external headwinds exacerbated internal challenges, which Ontex mitigated with proactive measures, notably improved mix, pricing and savings in manufacturing, supply chain, procurement and R&D In Brazil, Ontex has already launched a comprehensive turnaround plan addressing brand management, commercial organization, manufacturing and supply chain, and distribution network. These initiatives are starting to bear fruit, with sequential revenue and EBITDA margin improvement in 2018. We expect turnaround benefits to crystallize in the medium term and support our growth agenda. New capabilities in Manufacturing, Digital, R&D, Marketing and Sales have been added to reinforce Ontex's competitive strengths Ontex has also made important progress in its sustainability initiatives to become carbon-neutral by 2030, improve employee diversity and working conditions The organizational change from five to three Divisions allows greater agility and focus. Manufacturing and Supply Chain across the company have been regrouped into one Operations Division, for increased coordination, scale and efficiency Yet further action is needed to take Ontex to the next level. Through the deployment of Transform2Grow, a comprehensive transformation program, Ontex will be able to build on its fundamentals to deliver sustainable profitable growth and accelerate value creation Favorable market fundamentals underpin the next phase Ontex is well positioned to benefit from the underlying growth trends currently reshaping the personal hygiene industry Ontex has strong assets both in terms of geographic footprint and product categories, with a solid presence in emerging markets as well as in Incontinence and Babycare, which are expected to be the fastest-growing hygiene categories worldwide between 2018 and 2023 Demographic trends as well as the growth potential from increasing usage rates of personal hygiene products around the globe create significant opportunities for Ontex In Retailer Brands, regions such as Eastern Europe, the United States and Latin America offer strong growth potential Other market trends, such as consumers favouring local brands and rapid e-commerce growth, are also relevant to Ontex and fit with its business model Ontex is also uniquely positioned to drive consolidation in a highly-fragmented industry T2G: Boosting operational efficiency and drive commercial excellence The Investor Update will be an opportunity for Ontex's management to detail Transform2Grow, the comprehensive transformation plan it is launching across its organisation. The plan has two main objectives: Boost operational efficiency Manufacturing excellence : Reinvigorate manufacturing strengths and leverage best practices through optimization of the existing manufacturing footprint, improvement of the shopfloor organizational model and roll-out of best practices for machine productivity Supply chain optimisation : Optimize transportation, warehousing and end-to-end planning Strategic procurement : Leverage increased scale to optimize procurement practices, with targeted cost reduction of 2% in direct purchasing and 8% in indirect purchasing Product optimization : Reinforce innovation strengths in product design to optimise raw materials usage Drive commercial excellence Category mix : Increased focus on the high-growth product segments Customer value proposition : Offer more differentiated value propositions to customers through category expertise, partnership relationships as well as product and logistics excellence Innovation relevance and speed : Leverage insight and research to build the right innovation roadmap and adapt innovation process to dual business model combining Branded and Retailer brands T2G will accelerate and expand capability across all areas through upgraded training programs, roll-out of global leadership and change management programs, benefitting from our Global Centers of Expertise. As employee engagement will be key to the T2G implementation in a step-by-step approach, Ontex will be investing in its people and capability building to empower employees and ensure the success and sustainability of the transformation. The T2G plan will entail an investment of 130 million, split between one-off costs of 85 million and Capex of 45 million, with a full pay-back by the end of 2022. We expect 45 million to 50 million of the investment in 2019, and the remainder in the 2020/2021 period. Clear strategic priorities to drive profitable growth Ontex has two clear strategic pillars, supported by T2G and underpinned by highly attractive market fundamentals, to deliver sustainable profitable growth: Strengthen current leadership positions in its three divisions: In Europe : Ontex aims to maintain its leadership in the Retailer Brands segment of the market through differentiating factors such as product performance, consistent and reliable quality, superior service level, fast-follower innovation, competitive yet disciplined pricing, scale advantages and geographical reach In America Middle East Africa Asia : The Group will grow locally-relevant brands and continue its turnaround of the Brazilian business. Ontex will build on its leadership in Adult Incontinence to shift towards Light Inco and Adult Pants, drive Baby pants adoption in its key markets, improve its distribution channel and upgrade its innovation In Healthcare : Leverage scale and expertise acquired in the institutional channel to seize the opportunity to expand in pharma retail Expand into new businesses and geographies in core categories: North America : Ontex will leverage its European retail brand expertise to become a credible alternative to the current supplier base Online sales : Ontex will take advantage of changing consumer trends towards e-commerce to support its Retailer Brands' online presence and store-to-online conversion, co-develop new value propositions with third-party lifestyle brands, further increase its presence on large Marketplaces and accelerate Direct-to-Consumer Subscription Acquisitions : Ontex is strongly positioned to participate in industry consolidation, building on its solid track-record of cross-border acquisitions and integration of 13 companies since 1999 Financial Outlook Ontex's financial objectives over 2019 2021 are as follows: 2019 Outlook Broadly stable like-for-like revenue*, Stable Adjusted EBITDA at constant currency Capital expenditure of 4.5% to 5.0% of revenue, excluding T2G-specific capex T2G financial investment of 130m One-off costs of 85m Incremental capex of 45m 45m to 50m of the total investment engaged in 2019, the balance over 2020-2021 2020-2021 Outlook Like-for-like revenue* outperforming the markets in which we operate by at least 50bps 2021 EBITDA margin improvement at constant currency** compared with 2018: +125bps to +175bps Working capital*** improvement compared with 2018: 10% Capital expenditure: 4% to 5% of revenue Cash flow conversion**** c. 55% to 65% Full payback of T2G investment expected by end of 2022 Like-for-like revenue is defined as revenue at constant currency excluding change in scope of consolidation or M&A. ** Net of the impact of the application of IFRS 16 effective as of January 1, 2019. *** On the basis of the 2018A reported working capital of 421 million, excluding factoring as per Ontex's definition (inventories, trade receivables, prepaid expenses and other receivables minus trade payables, accrued expenses and other payables). **** Cash flow conversion is calculated as (Adj. EBITDA Capex Change in Working Capital) Adj. EBITDA. INVESTOR UPDATE WEBCAST Management will host an Investor Update for investors and analysts in London on May 8, 2019 at 10:30am GMT/11:30am CET. The Investor Update will also be webcast and can be accessed through the following link: https://channel.royalcast.com/webcast/ontexgroup/20190508_3/ FINANCIAL CALENDAR 2019 AGM May 24, 2019 H1 2019 July 31, 2019 Q3 2019 November 6, 2019 DISCLAIMER This report may include forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements regarding or based upon our management's current intentions, beliefs or expectations relating to, among other things, Ontex's future results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies or developments in the industry in which we operate. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results or future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied thereby. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could adversely affect the outcome and financial effects of the plans and events described herein. Forward-looking statements contained in this report regarding trends or current activities should not be taken as a report that such trends or activities will continue in the future. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this report. The information contained in this report is subject to change without notice. No re-report or warranty, express or implied, is made as to the fairness, accuracy, reasonableness or completeness of the information contained herein and no reliance should be placed on it. In most of the tables of this report, amounts are shown in million for reasons of transparency. This may give rise to rounding differences in the tables presented in the trading update. This trading update has been prepared in Dutch and translated into English. In the case of discrepancies between the two versions, the Dutch version will prevail. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190507006182/en/ Contacts: INVESTORS Philip Ludwig +32 53 333 730 Philip.ludwig@ontexglobal.com PRESS Gaelle Vilatte +32 53 333 708 Gaelle.Vilatte@ontexglobal.com Netcompany - Interim report for the three months ended 31 March 2019 Company announcement No 13/2019 8 May 2019 Summary Netcompany realised organic revenue of DKK 597.7m in Q1 2019, corresponding to an organic and reported revenue growth of 15.6%. Adjusted EBITA grew by 15.2% to DKK 147.2m compared to DKK 127.8m in Q1 2018, corresponding to an adjusted EBITA margin of 24.6%. The average number of full-time employees grew by 332 from 1,766 during Q1 2018 to 2,098 during Q1 2019. Free cash flow remained strong and increased by 11.2% from DKK 67.6m in Q1 2018 to DKK 75.2m in Q1 2019. Normalised for on account tax payments, free cash flow increased by 67% to DKK 111.1m, yielding a cash conversion ratio of 92.7%. Revenue visibility for the year 2019 increased by 13.1% to DKK 1,786.3m compared to DKK 1,579.4m at the beginning of 2019, of which DKK 597.7m reflected realised revenue during Q1 2019. For 2019, Netcompany maintains its expectations to revenue growth in constant currencies of between 20% - 25% and group adjusted EBITA margin in constant currencies of around 26%. "We have delivered growth as expected of 15.6% in Q1 2019 against a relative high revenue growth in Q1 2018, supportive of our ambition to grow between 20% and 25% for the full year. Margins and free cash flow was improved compared to Q1 2018 as a result of our continued focus on delivering projects on time, quality and budget to our customers. Our businesses in both Norway and the UK grew by around 30% and margins were improved. In Denmark, we saw growth returning to the private segment based on larger scale projects coming to the market. During Q1 2019, we deliberately slowed the recruiting pace and yet we have welcomed more than 137 employees since the beginning of the year. We are off to a good start for the year in line with our expectations." Andre Rogaczewski, Netcompany CEO and Co-founder Q1 Performance highlights Reported and organic revenue growth of 15.6% Gross margin increased to 39.1% Free cash flow improved by 67% to DKK 111.1m Cash convertion rate of 92.7% Financial overview For full details on financial performance, see enclosed interim report for the three months ended 31 March 2019. Conference details In connection with the publication of the results for Q1 2019, Netcompany will host a conference call on 8 May 2019 at 10.00 CEST. The conference call will be held in English and can be followed live via the company's website; www.netcompany.com Dial-in details for investors and analysts: DK: +45 32 72 80 42 UK: +44 (0)207 192 8000 Confirmation code: 2387888 Webcast Player URL: https://edge.media-server.com/m6/p/65hgz47v Additional information Andre Rogaczewski, CEO +45 70 13 14 40 Thomas Johansen, CFO +45 51 19 32 24 Attachment Large Copper and Gold Systems Discovered at Chical BISHOPSGATE, LONDON / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / The Board of SolGold (LSE, TSX: SOLG) is pleased to provide an update from the Company's regional exploration activities from its 100% owned Chical Project in northern Ecuador, held by wholly owned subsidiary Carnegie Ridge Resources S.A. Highlights Follow up of anomalous stream sediment geochemistry has identified a 5.8km area of mineralised epithermal gold and porphyry style mineralisation comprising 3 prospect areas; the Pascal, La Esperanza and Espinoza prospects. The Chical Project is held under the 100% owned Chical 1,2 and 5 Tenements (Figure 1) Mineralisation is associated with an extensive contact zone between intrusive granodiorite and gabbro with volcano-sedimentary units. Gold mineralisation consists of epithermal stockwork quartz veining with an abundance of 10 to 15 veins per metre significantly more intense than that required for a significant mineral system associated with strong chlorite-sericite-epidote hydrothermal alteration. Rock chip sampling of mineralised quartz veins and stockworks at Pascal and Espinoza prospects over a 2km length returned significant gold values: o R01003083 45.5 g/t Au (float) o R01003217 7.05 g/t Au o R01003148 3.27 g/t Au o R01003134 2.57 g/t Au Rock chip samples of sulphide veinlets associated with potassic alteration (and alteration style diagnostic of a significant porphyry system) from the La Esperanza prospect return high copper and molybdenum values over an area 2.5km long and up to 1km wide: o R01003071 1.04% Cu, 0.42 g/t Au, 886 ppm (0.088%) Mo o R01003095 0.94% Cu, 0.18 g/t Au, 5.84 ppm Mo o R01003156 0.9% Cu, 0.44 g/t Au, 348 ppm (0.034%) Mo References to figures and tables relate to the version visible in PDF format by clicking the link below: http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2596Y_1-2019-5-7.pdf Commenting on the results, SolGold's Exploration and Country Manager Jason Ward said: "The large areas of geochemical anomalism, the widespread extent of the altered and mineralised outcrops and the mineralisation style comprising multi directional veining accompanied by molybdenum are strong indicators of a large copper rich porphyry system at La Esperanza. Peripheral high-grade gold rich epithermal veins have also been identified at Pascal and Espinoza. The high-grade gold vein occurrences also indicate potential for early high-grade gold resources beside the porphyries. The proximity of Chical to Cascabel is geologically and logistically encouraging and vindicates our long-held opinion that we have discovered a new copper porphyry province. The generative foundations laid in 2014 are certainly paying off." Introduction Ecuador is located on the copper-gold rich and under-explored northern section of the Andean Copper Belt. The well explored southern portion is renowned as the production base for nearly half of the world's copper (Figure 1). SolGold's strategy to become a tier 1 copper and gold producer through systematic exploration continues to yield exciting results. Follow up exploration has focussed on 11 priority projects identified across SolGold's 72 granted regional concessions. With 11 priority projects now recognised, ongoing exploration by SolGold technical teams is focussed on advancing these priority projects with a view to progress to drill testing as soon as possible. SolGold's high success rate has been achieved by operating multiple field teams comprising 42 Ecuadorean geologists in regional exploration, led by highly experienced national geologists and applying the exploration discovery and appraisal blueprint developed over the last 4 years at Alpala. Further Information Chical Project Follow up mapping (Figures 2 & 3) and rock chip sampling of a stream sediment geochemical gold anomaly, known as the Pascal and Espinoza prospects returned rock results of up to 45.5 g/t Au in granodiorite and andesite rocks (Figures 2, 3 & 4). Samples were taken from epithermal quartz vein network(stockwork) outcrops (Figure 6) hosting the mineralisation. Significant rock chip results from the Pascal prospect over 2km in length include: o R01003083 45.5g/t Au (float) o R01003217 7.05 g/t Au o R01003148 3.27g/t Au o R01003134 2.57g/t Au o R01003064 2.41g/t Au A stream sediment geochemical copper anomaly was also identified in the La Esperanza prospect dominated by diorite and granodiorites with veinlets of quartz - chalcopyrite associated with porphyry diagnostic potassic alteration over an area of 2.5nm5km long and up to 1km wide (Figure 5). This copper anomaly shows coincident molybdenum and copper - zinc ratio (Cu/Zn) geochemical anomalies (Figure 2 & 3). Best geochemical rock chip results include: o R010030711.04% Cu, 0.42 g/t Au, 886 ppm (0.088%) Mo o R010030950.94% Cu, 0.18 g/t Au, 5.84 ppm Mo o R010031560.9% Cu, 0.44 g/t Au, 348 (0.034) ppm Mo o R01003226 0.63% Cu, 0.59 g/t Au, 50.8 ppm Mo (float) o R01003157 0.42% Cu, 0.1 g/t Au, 459 ppm (0.045) Mo Figure 1: Location plan of the Chical Project in southern Ecuador. Figure 2: Geology of the Chical Project. Figure 3: Chical Project - Gold and copper rock chip results. Figure 4: High grade rock sample from the Chical Project. Figure 5 : Rock chip sample from the Chical Project. Figure 6: Quartz stockwork veining at the Chical Project. Table 1: Significant gold results - Chical rock chips Table 2: Significant copper results - Chical rock chips Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure Certain information contained in this announcement would have been deemed inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 until the release of this announcement. Qualified Person: Information in this report relating to the exploration results is based on data reviewed by Mr Jason Ward ((CP) B.Sc. Geol.), the Chief Geologist of the Company. Mr Ward is a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, holds the designation FAusIMM (CP), and has in excess of 20 years' experience in mineral exploration and is a Qualified Person for the purposes of the relevant LSE and TSX Rules. Mr Ward consents to the inclusion of the information in the form and context in which it appears. By order of the Board Karl Schlobohm Company Secretary CONTACTS Nicholas Mather SolGold Plc (Chief Executive Officer) nmather@solgold.com.au Tel: +61 (0) 7 3303 0665 +61 (0) 417 880 448 Karl Schlobohm SolGold Plc (Company Secretary) kschlobohm@solgold.com.au Tel: +61 (0) 7 3303 0661 Anna Legge SolGold Plc (Corporate Communications) alegge@solgold.com.au Tel: +44 (0) 20 3823 2131 Gordon Poole / Nick Hennis Camarco (Financial PR / IR) solgold@camarco.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 20 3757 4997 Andrew Chubb / Ingo Hofmaier Hannam & Partners (Joint Broker and Financial Advisor) solgold@hannam.partners Tel: +44 (0) 20 7907 8500 Ross Allister / David McKeown Peel Hunt (Joint Broker and Financial Advisor) solgold@peelhunt.com Tel: +44 (0)20 7418 8900 James Kofman / Darren Wallace Cormark Securities Inc. (Financial Advisor) dwallace@cormark.com Tel: +1 416 943 6411 Follow us on twitter @SolGold_plc This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com. SOURCE: SolGold PLC View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544620/SolGold-PLC-Announces-Chical-Project-Update Shared celebration at Education City honors 786 graduates from nine QF universities DOHA, Qatar, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Amir of Qatar, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), tonight attended QF's annual Convocation ceremony, honoring the academic achievements of 786 new QF graduates. His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO, Qatar Foundation, and His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of Qatar Olympic Committee, also attended the event in Education City's Ceremonial Court, alongside ministers and dignitaries, university deans, faculty, and family members. The Class of 2019 now join QF's growing global alumni network - which already has more than 5,000 members - having graduated in fields including medicine, engineering, art and design, computer science, law, communication, and Islamic studies. Tonight's Convocation ceremony was an opportunity for graduates from QF's nine universities to collectively look back on their time and accomplishments at Education City - and look to the future. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind said, "For our Class of 2019 graduates, Convocation is many things: a personal and shared celebration, a source of pride, and a time to reflect on their achievements and experiences at Education City. It is a culmination - but it is also a beginning. "At Convocation, the talented, dedicated, and ambitious young people that Qatar Foundation is proud to have called our students step out of one phase of their lives and into the next. A future that holds challenges and possibilities awaits them, but wherever their path leads, they will travel it empowered by the knowledge that they are as well-equipped to create, innovate, contribute, and thrive as any set of graduates in the world. "Every member of our Class of 2019 has recognized and maximized the unique educational opportunity that Qatar Foundation provides. Their academic excellence has been matched by their growth as knowledge-seekers, critical thinkers, and active citizens who are determined to be drivers of positive change. As embodiments of QF's belief in what quality education stands for, and what it makes possible, they will always be part of our story - and we will watch with pride as they write their own." Tonight's proceedings began with students from Qatar Leadership Academy - a school under the umbrella of QF's Pre-University Education - performing the Qatar national anthem. This was followed by the City of Knowledge, the alma mater song of Qatar Foundation, which is sung by its graduates every year at Convocation. The 2019 Convocation keynote speaker was Brandon Stanton, author of 'Humans of New York' - a photo blog and book chronicling the lives of people in the US city - who, in his address, urged the new QF graduates to concentrate on the things in life that they alone have the power to influence and command. "The modern world has trained us to judge all our efforts by the immediate feedback that they get, but the more sustainable and more sturdy path to success is to forget about those things that are outside your control, and focus on the things that you can control - the amount of work that you put in, and what you do on a 24-hour basis with your time," he said. "What Humans of New York eventually became was nothing that I originally intended. All I focused on was going out and photographing every single day - and I did that thousands of days in a row. Through focusing on the work, and ignoring what people were saying about it, I was able to innovate and slowly build something that was beyond my wildest dreams." Following the keynote address, the project Mobsron was announced as the winner of Cycle 2 of QF's Akhlaquna Award - an initiative announced by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser in 2017 that aims to help nurture positive behavioral change within society. Created by students Nawal Al-Kurbi, Almazun Al-Marri, and Amal Al-Gherainig, Mobsron is a mobile app that helps people who are blind and visually impaired to order food, review ingredients, and compare prices. A film featuring testimonies from Class of 2019 students was also screened at the ceremony before, at the conclusion of the ceremony, each graduate passed through the 'Door to the Future', a long-standing QF tradition that symbolizes students entering a new stage in their lives. Since it was first held in 2008, Convocation has been a platform to collectively celebrate the graduation of students from QF member Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and QF partner universities Texas A&M University at Qatar, Northwestern University in Qatar, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Georgetown University in Qatar, UCL Qatar, and HEC Paris in Qatar. Qatar Foundation - Unlocking Human Potential Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) is a non-profit organization that supports Qatar on its journey to becoming a diversified and sustainable economy. QF strives to serve the people of Qatar and beyond by providing specialized programs across its innovation-focused ecosystem of education, research and development, and community development. QF was founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who shared the vision to provide Qatar with quality education. Today, QF's world-class education system offers lifelong learning opportunities to community members as young as six months through to doctoral level, enabling graduates to thrive in a global environment and contribute to the nation's development. QF is also creating a multidisciplinary innovation hub in Qatar, where homegrown researchers are working to address local and global challenges. By promoting a culture of lifelong learning and fostering social engagement through programs that embody Qatari culture, QF is committed to empowering the local community and contributing to a better world for all. For a complete list of QF's initiatives and projects, please visit: www.qf.org.qa Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883846/Brandon_Stanton_Qatar_Foundation.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883845/Qatar_Foundation_Convocation.jpg Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/883844/Qatar_Foundation_Convocation.jpg A decrease in turnover in the United States, caused by a series of temporary events, stalled the group's sales growth at 313 million Fluidra benefits from its global presence with the European market continuing to show strong momentum with some examples of double-digit growth Fluidra expects to meet cost savings goal set as a result of the merger with Zodiac, after successfully completing the integration process in Spain, Portugal and Italy United States' recovery beginning well in April and Europe maintaining its positive tendency, allow the Company to reaffirm its guidance for 2019 Fluidra reports first quarter results, with a net loss of 2.8 million, which reconciles to pro forma profit of 5.9 million by adding back all non-recurring expenses related to the integration, along with IFRS-16 accounting adjustment. Sales at Fluidra fell by 1.1% to 313.1 million in the first three months of the year, caused by a weak quarter in the United States. A series of temporary events were behind the decline, including weather, change of distribution ordering patterns and the transfer of a manufacturing plant from San Diego to Tijuana. Nevertheless, North America's fundamentals remain solid and the tide has begun to turn in April with double-digit growth in local turnover. The performance in Europe was positive, with a 9.7% rise (at constant perimeter) for southern European operations and an increase of approximately 13% (at constant exchange rate and perimeter) in the rest of the region. Meanwhile, the company's business in the Rest of the World continued with its stable growth, when removing the currency and perimeter effect, at 6.2%. Consequently, the global leader in the pool and wellness equipment business has been able to reaffirm its forecasts for 2019. In this regard, Fluidra expects to end 2019 with a turnover of between 1.35 billion and 1.4 billion, EBITDA1 of between 240 million and 260 million, and a net debt1 to EBITDA ratio of less than 2.6, compared with the 2018 figure of 3.2. "Despite the late start in North America, on the back of abnormally poor weather and other temporary events, we remain positive about the full year 2019. The strength of the other markets in our global platform -especially Europe-, the improved sales margin, and the good progress on integration keep us on track with 2019 guidance and our 2022 Strategic Plan" explained Eloi Planes, Executive Chairman of Fluidra. He also noted that this is a seasonal business in which isolated year on year quarterly comparisons are less applicable. Residential Pools: key business unit The listed company's Residential Pool division continued to show the highest turnover, coming mainly from the recurrent business with the large number of installed swimming pools. Revenues in Residential Pool came to 215 million, in line with the figure registered the previous year. In fact, this business unit grew 1.1% when adjusting for change in perimeter, following Aquatron's divestiture. Turnover in the Commercial Pool division was 23.2 million for the period, a 3.2% increase compared to last year's first quarter sales. This marks the end of the challenging comparison to the previous year for this more predictable business unit, and the team is encouraged with a strong pipeline of new projects. Pool Fluid Handling had a very strong performance whereas Pool Water Treatment was in line with the figure registered the previous year. Successful integration processes in Spain, Italy and Portugal The quarter also witnessed some significant milestones following Fluidra's merger with US company Zodiac, with the conclusion of successful integration processes in Spain, Italy and Portugal. The run rate synergies of ~17m Euros have the company well poised to deliver the 19m savings committed by the end of 2019 and the team well on track to deliver the committed 35m Euros in savings from the Strategic Plan. About Fluidra Spanish-listed company Fluidra is a world leader in the pool and wellness equipment business, offering innovative products and services and IoT solutions. The company operates in more than 45 countries and its portfolio includes some of the industry's best known brands, including Jandy, AstralPool, Polaris, Cepex, Zodiac, CTX Professional, and Gre. For further information about Fluidra, please visit www.fluidra.com 1 Pre IFRS 16. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005306/en/ Contacts: Media contacts: Sarah Estebanez, sestebanez@tinkle.es,+34 636 62 80 41 Paula Lacruz, placruz@tinkle.es, +34 674 73 47 82 LONDON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- AgDevCo is pleased to announce an investment in Tradin Organic to source organic cocoa directly from certified small-holder farmers in Sierra Leone linking them to manufacturers in Europe, the USA and Asia. AgDevCo's $3 million revolving facility will allow Tradin to purchase cocoa at premium prices from up to 20,000 certified farmers. Tradin Sierra Leone began operations in the Kenema region of Sierra Leone in 2017, successfully developing a network of trained buying agents and ensuring each bag of cocoa was traceable directly to the farmer. This is AgDevCo's first investment in Sierra Leone. It will benefit a region that was severely affected by the 2014 Ebola outbreak. The crisis caused international cocoa companies to halt buying operations, leaving cocoa farmers with limited access to the world market. With AgDevCo support, Tradin will also develop a network of farmer field schools to lift productivity by providing education on improved harvesting and fermenting techniques. Through this investment, Tradin and AgDevCo hope to revitalise the cocoa sector in Sierra Leone where, despite enormous potential, cocoa export volumes have remained stagnant over the past decade. AgDevCo is an impact investor specialising in agribusiness investments in Sub-Sahara Africa. AgDevCo's portfolio consists of over 50 investments in production, processing and distribution. AgDevCo is headquartered in London with representative offices in eight African countries. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/737847/AgDevCo_Logo.jpg Neuromod Devices Limited ("Neuromod" or "The Company"), the Irish medical technology company specialising in non-invasive neuromodulation technologies, today provides an update on organisational and leadership growth in preparation for European commercialisation and US regulatory clearance application. Following the completion of two of the largest clinical trials ever conducted in tinnitus; including 517 participants, the Company is now advancing towards initial commercialisation of its CE-marked product in Ireland and Germany, which will be marketed under the brand name Lenire. To support commercialisation activities, Neuromod is investing in establishing the appropriate quality, regulatory and supply chain infrastructure to support near term European plans and lay the foundation for the Company's US strategy. Senior Leadership Appointments Neuromod is delighted to announce the appointment of Deborah Arthur as Head of Quality and Regulatory Affairs, Suzanne O'Rourke as Director of Quality and Regulatory Affairs and Cathal Mc Fadden as Director of Operations. Deborah and Suzanne bring more than 45 years of combined experience in medical device regulatory and quality matters. They will be supported by a team of qualified industry experts in navigating the regulatory pathway to market the treatment in the United States and transitioning to the new EU Medical Devices Regulation (MDR (EU) 2017/745). Cathal's experience in manufacturing scale up and supply chain management will ensure that Neuromod is ready to meet the anticipated demand for Lenire in Europe and globally. Dr. Ross O'Neill, CEO of Neuromod commented: "This is a very exciting time for Neuromod as we move towards commercialisation, supported by encouraging data from our recent clinical trials. I am delighted that industry leaders of the calibre of Deb, Suzanne and Cathal have agreed to join our team. Neuromod is investing in growing our organisation; we have been working tirelessly to ensure that all systems are in place to bring our much-anticipated breakthrough treatment to the large population of people living with tinnitus globally." -ENDS- About Neuromod Devices Limited Neuromod, headquartered in the Digital Hub, Dublin, Ireland, is an emerging medical technology company, specialising in the design and development of neuromodulation technologies to address the clinical needs of underserved patient populations who live with chronic and debilitating tinnitus. The company was founded in 2010, by Dr. Ross O'Neill, as a spin-out from Maynooth University. Neuromod has conducted extensive clinical trials to confirm the efficacy of its non-invasive neuromodulation treatment for this extremely common disorder for which no standard of care has yet been established. Tinnitus affects between 10 and 15% of the global population, and the lives of at least 1 in every 100 people worldwide are severely compromised because of the incessant nature of the illusory sound that is often described as a ringing or buzzing in the ears. www.NeuromodDevices.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005314/en/ Contacts: FTI Consulting Media Relations Melanie Farrell neuromod@fticonsulting.com NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Company Limited (the "Company") (HKEx: 338; SSE: 600688;NYSE: SHI) announced today that its Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on April 29, 2019, has been posted to the Company's website at http://www.spc-ir.com.hk/eng/report.asp. The soft copy of the Company's annual report on Form 20-F could also be downloaded through its website. The Company will deliver within a reasonable time after request a hard copy of its 2018 annual report on Form 20-F, including its complete audited consolidated financial statements, free of charge, to any shareholder upon request. To request a hard copy of the annual report, please write to: Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Company Limited 48 Jinyi Road, Jinshan District, Shanghai, PRC Postal Code: 200540 Attention to: the Secretariat to the Board of Directors Related Links http://www.spc-ir.com.hk/eng/report.asp Investor and Media Enquiries: PRChina Limited Mr. David Shiu / Ray Sun Tel: (852) 2522 1838 / (852) 2522 1368 Email: dshiu@prchina.com.hk / rsun@prchina.com.hk SOURCE: Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Company Limited View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544627/Sinopec-Shanghai-Petrochemical-Company-Limited-Files-2018-Annual-Report-on-Form-20-F - Belfast Coin is the UK's first incentive-based digital currency - It will operate as a rewards platform, motivating actions which make a positive difference - From later this year, it will be accepted as payment across Belfast BELFAST, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Belfast City Council and Colu , a UK & Israel based tech company, today announced a partnership to launch an innovative city currency. Known as Belfast Coin, it is designed to empower residents, local businesses, city authorities and partners, bringing them together to help Belfast develop and thrive. In particular, Belfast Coin will be deployed to boost the city economy and help meet environmental goals. Belfast Coin will operate as a rewards platform, encouraging the Belfast public towards impactful behaviours to further improve the city. Residents will accumulate Belfast Coins in return for activities such as shopping at local businesses, volunteering, civic activity and beyond. By motivating Belfast residents to make a positive difference, the Belfast Coin will strengthen their connection to the city they live in. It will be accepted as payment at local businesses across the city, including shops, cafes, restaurants and more. Residents will be required to simply download the app and connect a payment card as a source of payment. Belfast Coin is the UK's first city-wide digital currency designed specifically to encourage positive everyday activities. "Belfast Coin will make a tremendous contribution to the city's development - Economically, socially, environmentally and beyond. Just as importantly though, Belfast Coin will bring all the different elements of the city closer to each other, by empowering residents, businesses, NGOs, community groups and educational institutions to work together towards the same goals," said Amos Meiri, Colu's CEO and co- founder."By utilizing Colu's innovative technology in this way, Belfast is demonstrating that it is a forward-thinking, exciting and ambitious city." Belfast Coin will be introduced as part of the city's participation in 100 Resilient Cities - Pioneered by The Rockefeller Foundation (100RC). The organisation helps cities around the world become more resilient to the physical, social, and economic challenges that are a growing part of the 21st century. A call went out to members of 100RC's global network in January 2019, to work with Colu in establishing a city-wide currency. Belfast was subsequently one of six cities invited to participate in a workshop at Colu's Tel Aviv office, and is now pursuing the next step of implementing a city-wide currency. "As Belfast looks to the future, a chief concern will be maximizing important assets like its high quality of life, while reducing a range of challenges including the social and economic disparities which exist between residents. The Belfast Coin is an innovative example of how the city, throughout its resilience process to date, has partnered with its public, private, and individual stakeholders to catalyse inclusive economic growth and build a strong future for the entire urban community," said Lina Liakou, Managing Director for Europe & the Middle East at 100 Resilient Cities. Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Deirdre Hargey said: "Being selected to be part of the city currency challenge means an important opportunity for Belfast, and I'm delighted that this has been made possible through our partnership with 100 Resilient Cities, and working with Colu. "Belfast Coin will be introduced later this year and it's our hope that it will initially give an economic boost to local businesses, as well as helping Council achieve other long-term goals, including environmental. This challenge gives us the opportunity to explore how a city currency can bring residents, businesses and city partners together to support inclusive growth - a key priority within our Belfast Agenda. It's also really exciting to be working alongside other global cities to learn from each other about urban problem-solving and sharing best practice." Belfast Coin is expected to be launched across the city later this year. Among its initial impacts, Belfast Coin will encourage people to shop at independent businesses in the city's Cathedral Quarter. By offering Belfast Coins as an incentive, it is hoped that residents will increasingly choose to shop with local businesses. Belfast Coin will also be used to motivate increased green activity, improving the local environment. Following today's announcement, work will begin immediately to sign up a range of partners, and build an eco-system of stakeholders, in advance of the Belfast Coin being introduced later this year. These may include major institutions in the city, such as large employers and higher educational institutions, who may wish to help boost economic and social growth in the city. It would encourage employees, students and other relevant communities within the city to use Belfast Coin. As such, Belfast Coin operates as a platform to engage these institutions and other future partners in efforts to join forces and tackle the challenges facing the city. To access Belfast Coins, local residents will simply be required to download the Colu app. Meanwhile, local businesses interested in pre-application for using Belfast Coin are encouraged to register now by visiting www.colu.com/belfast Colu's mobile payment app currently operates in communities in four cities in the UK and Israel. It is strengthening local economies by empowering more than 200,000 people to make transactions at many thousands of local businesses, accounting for over 300,000 monthly transactions. In Tel Aviv, Colu has been adopted by around one quarter of the city's population. In addition to designing and developing Belfast Coin, bringing innovative technology to the city, Colu also plans to play an ongoing role in Belfast's continued development. The company has plans to open a unique concept shop in the city centre - Staffed by local employees, it will provide a platform for local creativity and business initiative. Colu is also committed to further investments in Belfast. About Colu CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ --According to the new market research report "Alpha-Methylstyrene Market by Application(ABS, Para-Cumylphenol, Adhesives & Coatings, Waxes), Purity(Assay above 99.5% and Between 95% to 99.5%), Region(Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Middle East & Africa, South America) - Global Forecast to 2024", published by MarketsandMarkets, the Alpha-Methylstyrene Market is projected to grow from USD 473 million in 2019 to USD 543 million by 2024, at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2019 to 2024. Increased demand for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), which uses alpha-methylstyrene, from various end-use industries such as automotive and electronic appliances is one of the key factors driving the growth of the alpha-methylstyrene market across the globe. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=208818955 Browse in-depth TOC on "Alpha-Methylstyrene Market" 97 - Market Data Tables 44 - Figures 144 - Pages View detailed Table of Content here: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/alpha-methylstyrene-market-208818955.html The ABS segment is projected to lead the alpha-methylstyrene market in terms of both, value and volume during the forecast period. Based on application, the ABS segment of the alpha-methylstyrene market is projected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2019 to 2024, in terms of both, value and volume. Alpha-methylstyrene is primarily used in the production of ABS as it improves the heat stability and impact resistance of ABS resins. Increased demand for ABS resins from various end-use industries such as automotive and electronic appliances is driving the growth of the ABS segment of the alpha-methylstyrene market, worldwide. The assay above 99.5% segment is projected to lead the alpha-methylstyrene market in terms of both, value and volume from 2019 to 2024. Based on purity, the assay above 99.5% segment of the alpha-methylstyrene market is projected to grow at a higher CAGR than the between 95% to 99.5% segment during the forecast period in terms of both, value and volume. Purity above 99.5% indicates that the chemical mixture contains over 99.5% of pure alpha-methylstyrene. Higher the purity level of alpha-methylstyrene, higher is the number of applications, wherein it can be used. Alpha-methylstyrene with purity above 99.5% is used as a heat stabilizer for ABS, as a solvent in the plastics industry, and as a pigment and paint adhesive agent in adhesives & coatings, waxes, and tackifiers. It is also used in the food and cosmetics industries. Alpha-methylstyrene is used as an antioxidant, a modified polyester, and an alkyd resin. The global industrial standard for the purity of alpha-methylstyrene is 98.5%. Most of the manufacturers of alpha-methylstyrene across the globe produce alpha-methylstyrene having a purity level of 98.5% and above. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=208818955 The alpha-methylstyrene market in Asia Pacific is projected to grow at the highest CAGR in terms of both, value and volume during the forecast period. The Alpha-Methylstyrene Market in Asia Pacific is projected to grow at the highest CAGR in terms of both, value and volume from 2019 to 2024. China, India, Japan, and South Korea are key countries contributing to the increased demand for alpha-methylstyrene in this region. Innovations in production techniques of electronic appliances, rise in population, and increase in the income of the middle class population of the region, have resulted in increased demand for consumer durables and automobiles in Asia Pacific, thereby contributing to the growth of the alpha-methylstyrene market in this region. INEOS Group Holding S.A. (Switzerland), AdvanSix (US), Rosneft (Russia), Altivia Corp. (US), SI Group Inc. (US), DOMO Chemicals (Belgium), Kumho P&B Chemicals (South Korea), Taiwan Prosperity Chemical Corp. (Taiwan), Yangzhou Lida Chemicals (China), Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation (Japan), Solvay SA (Belgium), and Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. (Japan) are some of the leading players operating in the alpha-methylstyrene market. Get 10% Free Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=208818955 Browse Adjacent Markets: Resins and Polymers Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports : Styrenics Market by Polystyrene (Expanded, GPPS), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, SBR, UPR-Global Trends & Forecasts to 2018 Butadiene Market by Application and Geography-Trends and Forecasts to 2018 Phenol Derivatives Market by Derivatives (Bisphenol Derivatives-A, Phenolic Resins, Caprolactam, Alkylphenol, Other Derivatives), Region-Global Forecast to 2026 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: Mr. Shelly Singh MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/alpha-methylstyrene-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg Dr. James Chappuis Atlanta SpineCenter Information ATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Dr James Chappuis is a renowned orthopedic spine surgeon, who founded Spine Center Atlanta, where he is the Board Chairman. Dr Chappuis has practiced surgery for almost three decades, and holds twenty-seven spine surgery hardware patents. Spine Center Atlanta is run by physicians and prides itself on being an outstanding spine center, with eight handy locations across the Southeast. Spine Center Atlanta aims to use non invasive treatments, wherever possible, for chronic pain or injuries. This is done through its' range of innovative treatment procedures and medical membership schemes. The expert physicians at Spine Center Atlanta are all board certified professionals, who can repair unsuccessful neck and back surgeries at their outpatient, endoscopic same day spine surgery. The cutting edge facilities at Spine Center Atlanta can deliver effective treatments from knowledgeable, reputable spine surgeons and capable medical staff, including a resident anesthesiologist. The center offers extensive treatments to combat neck or back pain, such as non operative bespoke medical procedures, and surgical solutions to spinal and orthopedic disorders. Other treatments offered include interventional spine operations to tackle chronic and acute pain, water therapy, physiotherapy, medical massage, work conditioning, oriental medicine and acupuncture, IDD therapy, cryotherapy, wellness services featuring personal training and massage therapy, dry needling, regenerative stem cell therapy, an ambulatory surgical facility located on site, and MRI. Spine Center Atlanta can provide quality care to home based patients, or to patients who are on the move, through virtual meetings with highly qualified Family Nurse Practitioners and Ashley Kuruvilla, a Practice Registered Nurse. Patients who require surgery can attend virtual meetings with orthopedic spine surgeons, Julio Petilon and James Chappuis MD FACS. Spine Center Atlanta and Dr. James Chappuis set up the Westside Cultural Art Facility in Atlanta, to pursue his passion for painting and desire to help the local community. For athletes and adults who experience post surgery back or neck pain, Spine Center Atlanta is the leading option for surgical repairs, compared to other outpatient, same day unsuccessful spine surgeries. Our knowledgeable, acclaimed spine surgeons deliver great results for patients consistently, with customized payment options in a welcoming, comfortable environment. For people who suffer from persistent back or neck pain, Spine Center Atlanta stands head and shoulders above other outpatient spine surgeries, thanks to our expert, highly qualified orthopedic surgeons. These professionals work together, with our capable staff and clinicians, to use the most effective and conservative treatments available for all patients. Our center has delivered outstanding services to patients for over twenty-eight years, in pleasant, boutique themed surroundings with flexible financing options. People who wish to receive treatment in their homes should look no further than Spine Center Atlanta, which offers virtual consultations that surpass other telemedicine practices. Our board certified, exclusively allocated Family Nurse Practitioner and Ashley Kuruvilla, our Practice Registered Nurse, will deliver fantastic telemedicine care. Patients who might have to undergo surgery can arrange virtual consultations with our outstanding orthopedic spine surgeons, Julio Petilon and James L. Chappuis M.D. This is far more convenient than having to travel or spend time on a clinic waiting list. For more information visit: https://spinecenteratlanta.com or Call: (404) 351-5812 SOURCE: Dr James Chappuis View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544408/Dr-James-Chappuis-Atlantas-Renowned-Spine-Surgeon Seattle, Washington--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - CFN Media Group ("CFN Media"), the leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the North American cannabis industry, announces publication of a recent interview with the CEO of The Yield Growth Corp. (CSE: BOSS) (OTCQB: BOSQF) (FSE: YG3). As a relatively new industry, the cannabis market is at an exciting time as it matures and branches from just flower into new sectors. Cannabis is worth much more after it has been processed, for example into oils, edibles or topical products. Yield Growth Corp. (CSE: BOSS) (OTCQB: BOSQF) (FSE: YG3) is one company that has recognized this profitable opportunity. With the current worth of the health and wellness market estimated at $4.2 trillion, it has acted quickly to capitalize on this lucrative crossover. In a move to further diversify its impressive distribution strategy, Yield Growth Corp. announced a new consumer and marketing alliance with ipsy on April 30th, 2019. ipsy is a leading beauty commerce company, and delivers personalized beauty boxes to over 3 million monthly subscribers. This alliance will see products from Yield Growth's flagship brand Urban Juve featured in the ipsy glam bags. ipsy will post about Urban Juve's products on its social media channels, and this campaign is projected to generate millions of impressions. Click here to receive an investor deck and corporate updates CFN Media recently sat down with Yield Growth Corp. CEO Penny Green to discuss the company's unique niche in this industry, and why investors may want to pay close attention as the company positions itself to become a key player in the cannabis sector of the health and wellness industry. CFN: What is the primary focus of Yield Growth? Penny Green: We are the next generation of cannabis companies; we're developing and distributing a wide variety of luxury cannabis products - including beauty and health products, and beverages and edibles. They all contain ingredients from the cannabis sativa plant, be it hemp oils, or compounds like terpenes, and also cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. We're building a fully integrated, international cannabis products company, and we're using modern technology to bring the ancient wisdom to a wider market. We start by sourcing the right strains for maximum therapeutic benefit. We have our own extraction technology for the highest quality oils, and we're also developing an international distribution network for products, which combines online, brick and mortar and pop ups. We have experts from the ancient science of Ayurveda, who have created over 70 products for us, and we're using modern science, rigorous testing and quality control to bring those products to market. Many have been registered with Health Canada. We currently have about eleven products on the market through Urban Juve, and new products are being launched every month. We have our other line, Wright and Well, that's anticipated to be launched in about a month in Oregon. Our products are all made with the highest quality, all natural ingredients, no animal testing. They include body oils, pain balm, topical gels, capsules, beverages, sunscreen. We have a full line skin line with moisturisers, toners, cleansers and creams for various skin types. And we also have personal products such as deodorant, sexual lubricants and massage oil. And all of these products can be infused with cannabis, with THC or with CBD, and through all of that we intend to disrupt the international wellness and personal care industries. Click here to receive an investor deck and corporate updates CFN: What are some of the signals that participation in the cannabis space is "becoming a competitive imperative for major International brands"? PG: There is huge consumer interest and demand for products containing cannabis and hemp. These are historical events as cannabis is legalised and deregulated around the world. It's essentially creating a new industry after a one hundred year prohibition. In Canada, hemp root oil became legal in October 2018, and topicals made with cannabis derived ingredients are becoming legal in October of this year. In the U.S. the Farm Bill was adopted into law in December 2018, just very recently, and that allows hemp and CBD products to be legal in the U.S. Laws are changing every month in jurisdictions around the world. This is a cannabis revolution and the market opportunity is tremendous. We may never see an opportunity like this again in our lifetimes. CFN: What is the opportunity that cannabis represents in the global wellness market? PG: The global wellness market is worth about $4.2 trillion. The cannabis industry, however you measure it, is growing extremely fast. Some say it will be larger than tobacco. But it's difficult to estimate the impact it will have on the international wellness industry, as the cannabis industry is so new, and research and development is really still in its infancy, so we're at the very beginning of this exciting industry. Click here to receive an investor deck and corporate updates CFN: What are the six wholly owned subsidiaries under the Yield Growth banner? PG: Urban Juve: our flagship brand; it has hemp root oil products which are available at urbanjuve.com; UJ Topicals: which is cannabis derived CBD and THC products, and the brand Wright and Well, with nine products launching in Oregon; UJ beverages: which has a line of CBD beverages that it's planning to launch; Yield Botanicals: which has extraction technology, and we're building our own, proprietary extraction system, to get the highest quality hemp root oil and CBD from hemp, using techniques that better preserve the therapeutic qualities in the oils we're producing; Mad Wallaby Distribution: which focuses on hemp derived CBD products which are legal in the U.S.; Thrive Activations: which is a service company providing incubations services to emerging companies. CFN: Why do you think the company is "positioned to grow to the world's largest topicals company"? PG: We have all the pieces to make this happen. We have the assets and the infrastructure, and we have the team that has achieved multibillion dollar successes in the past. Our director Tom Bond was COO of MAC cosmetics for about six years before it was bought by Estee Lauder; he was also CFO. The chairman of our advisory board was the chairman of Johnson & Johnson, our VP licensing and general council was in-house at Aritzia and Sketchers, both multimillion dollar companies. Many people within our team come from the world's leading organisations. We have the experience, the network and the talent to build the world's largest topicals company. CFN: What do you think are some of the challenges facing Yield Growth? PG: I think our biggest challenge is communicating our plan as a new company, and to become known to retail investors, brokers, and to funds. We're at the beginning of our growth cycle, and we have a low valuation compared to the leading cannabis companies, so we have to be smarter and more effective with our capital. But we also offer opportunities to investors to buy our stock while we are new. CFN: What are the company's milestones or goals in the year ahead? PG: We want to have 1,000 retail outlets as part of our North American retail distribution. We have already 3 in-house brands but we want another 7 for a total of 10 for distribution. And we want to launch in e-commerce and popup shops in Asia, Europe and North America within the next year. We'd also want to have our extraction facility producing organic CBD from hemp with reliable supply, which we're lining up with hemp farmers. We would also like to obtain licences for manufacturing cannabis to allow us to extract CBD and THC, and make cannabis products in major territories such as California and Nevada. Click here to receive an investor deck and corporate updates CFN: What set of companies are ultimately going to be the winners in the cannabis space and why do you believe Yield Growth will be one of them? PG: I think there are going to be many winners in this space. I believe Yield Growth has the highest quality luxury cannabis products in the world, and we have the infrastructure and team to be the world leaders in this space of cannabis topicals. A Company to Watch Yield Growth has set the foundations to be a key player in the cannabis sector of the health and wellness industry. Between their strong and diverse team of directors, intelligent business strategy, and promising distribution network, they have positioned themselves to be leaders in this crossover market. For those looking to invest, Yield Growth is an exciting business to consider as the future looks bright for this innovative company. Click here to read the full article: https://www.cannabisfn.com/cfn-media-sits-down-with-penny-green-ceo-of-yield-growth/ About CFN Media For Visitors and Viewers CFN Media's Cannabis Financial Network (CannabisFN.com) is the destination for savvy investors and business people profiting from the worldwide cannabis industry. Viewers will see breaking news, exclusive content and original programming involving the people, companies and investments shaping the industry. For Cannabis Businesses & Companies CFN Media is a leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the cannabis industry. We help private, pre-public and public cannabis companies in the US and Canada attract capital, investors and media attention. Our powerful digital media and distribution platform conveys a company's message and value proposition directly to accredited and retail investors and national media active in the North American cannabis markets. Since 2013, CFN Media has enabled the world's preeminent cannabis companies to thrive in the capital and public markets. Learn how to become a CFN Media client company, brand or entrepreneur: http://www.cannabisfn.com/featuredcompany Disclaimer CannabisFN.com is not an independent financial investment advisor or broker-dealer. You should always consult with your own independent legal, tax, and/or investment professionals before making any investment decisions. The information provided on http://www.cannabisfn.com (the 'Site') is either original financial news or paid advertisements drafted by our in-house team or provided by an affiliate. CannabisFN.com, a financial news media and marketing firm enters into media buys or service agreements with the companies that are the subject of the articles posted on the Site or other editorials for advertising such companies. We are not an independent news media provider. We make no warranty or representation about the information including its completeness, accuracy, truthfulness or reliability and we disclaim, expressly and implicitly, all warranties of any kind, including whether the Information is complete, accurate, truthful, or reliable. As such, your use of the information is at your own risk. Nor do we undertake any obligation to update the items posted. CannabisFN.com received compensation for producing and presenting high quality and sophisticated content on CannabisFN.com along with financial and corporate news. The above article is sponsored content. Emerging Growth LLC, which owns CannabisFN.com and CFN Media, has been hired to create awareness. Please follow the link below to view our full disclosure outlining our compensation: http://www.cannabisfn.com/legal-disclaimer/ Contact CFN Media Frank Lane 206-369-7050 flane@cannabisfn.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44627 Delivering real-world business impact for the cloud business NOIDA, India, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- NIIT Technologies Limited (NSE: NIITTECH), a leading global IT solutions organization, today announced a strategic partnership with Blue Chip Customer Engineering Ltd to enhance the profitability and productivity of their customers. The partnership aims to bring NIIT Technologies' wealth management application and Blue Chip's IBM POWER expertise together to provide an end-to-end solution. Blue Chip provides maintenance, on-premise and cloud services within their Tier III & IV Data Centres in UK, and together NIIT Technologies and Blue Chip will address the demand in the market for a 360 degree support for its customer base which uses the IBM Power platform. The partnership will support wealth management and other financial organizations in maintaining, supplying and managing the IBM POWER platform, including IBMi & AIX operating systems. The organizations will not only have access to the best in class services, but also a cost effective alternative that will promote business growth. The partnership will help NIIT Technologies gain access to Blue Chip's expertise in the IBM midrange systems and will enable them to serve their clients with tailored and niche solutions. Commenting on the partnership, Sudhir Singh, CEO at NIIT Technologies, said, "At NIIT Technologies, we work towards solving specific business issues for our clients by providing them with solutions that aid the end-user experience and enable business development. The partnership with Blue Chip is a strategic move in this direction. With the increased adoption of cloud based services, Blue Chip brings the capability of providing and managing IBM power range platforms on the cloud. Together with Blue Chip, we will work towards addressing this aspect of the cloud for enterprises." Brian Meredith, CEO at Blue Chip, said, "We're delighted to be partnering with NIIT Technologies to expand our portfolio of end-to-end solutions for our customers through their application expertise, whilst providing them access to the largest Power Cloud in Europe. We're continually innovating and investing in the future, pioneering the service offerings to our customer base." About NIIT Technologies Ltd. NIIT Technologies is a leading global IT solutions organization, enabling its clients to transform at the intersect of unparalleled domain expertise and emerging technologies to achieve real-world business impact. The Company focuses on three key verticals: Banking and financial services, Insurance, Travel and Transportation. This domain strength combined with leading-edge capabilities in Data & Analytics, Automation, Cloud, and Digital, is enabling its clients to drive business transformation. With over 10,000 employees serving clients across Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia, NIIT Technologies fosters a culture that promotes innovation and constantly seeks to find new yet simple ways to add value for its clients. Learn more about NIIT Technologies at www.niit-tech.com. About Blue Chip We don't just understand our customers' changing needs, we deliver on them. We combine real life experience with pioneering technical expertise to produce world class managed IT solutions. Providing you the reassurance that ensures your focus stays on growing your business. We will do the rest - Advancing your IT. BlueChip is a Gold IBM business partner and a founding member of the IBM POWER Cloud programme. Under the current partnership, they will work with NIIT Technologies in the United Kingdom. Learn more about Blue Chip at www.bluechip.co.uk Safe Harbor Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements. The business involves various risks, and uncertainties that could result in the actual results to differ materially from those indicated here. All forward looking statements made herein are based on information presently available to the management of the Company and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company. For media queries please contact: Akanksha Gupta Corporate Communications NIIT Technologies Ltd. +91-120-7119033 akanksha.1.gupta@niit-tech.com Suman Nath Edelman India +91-9958065680 Suman.Nath@edelman.com For investor/analyst queries please contact: Abhinandan Singh Head - Investor Relations and M&A NIIT Technologies Ltd. +91-22-40103212 abhinandan.singh@niit-tech.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/537635/NIIT_Tech_Logo.jpg Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. RECORDATI ANNOUNCES GROWTH IN THE FIRST QUARTER 2019. NEW THREE YEAR BUSINESS PLAN APPROVED. Consolidated revenues 383.0 million, +4.5%. EBITDA (1) 143.9 million, +7.1% 143.9 million, +7.1% Operating income 126.0 million, +4.5%. Net income 92.1 million, +6.4%. Net financial position (2) : net debt of 555.7 million. : net debt of 555.7 million. Shareholders' equity 1,067.3 million. Exclusive license for the commercialization of Juxtapid in Japan. Business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021 approved. Milan, 8 May 2019 - The Board of Directors of Recordati S.p.A. approved the Group's consolidated results for the first quarter of 2019 prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standards and International Financial Reporting Standards (IAS/IFRS) and in particular as per IAS 34 requirements for interim reporting. The financial statements at 31 March 2019 will be available today at the company's offices and on the company's website www.recordati.com and can also be viewed on the authorized storage system 1Info (www.1Info.it). Financial highlights Consolidated revenues in the first quarter of 2019 are 383.0 million, up by 4.5% compared to the same period of the preceding year. International sales grow by 4.6%. in the first quarter of 2019 are 383.0 million, up by 4.5% compared to the same period of the preceding year. International sales grow by 4.6%. EBITDA (1) , at 37.6% of sales, is 143.9 million, an increase of 7.1% over the first quarter of 2018. , at 37.6% of sales, is 143.9 million, an increase of 7.1% over the first quarter of 2018. Operating income , at 32.9% of sales, is 126.0 million, an increase of 4.5% over the same period of the preceding year. , at 32.9% of sales, is 126.0 million, an increase of 4.5% over the same period of the preceding year. Net income, at 24.1% of sales, is 92.1 million, an increase of 6.4% over the first quarter of 2018. at 24.1% of sales, is 92.1 million, an increase of 6.4% over the first quarter of 2018. Net financial position (2) at 31 March 2019 records a net debt of 555.7 million compared to net debt of 588.4 million at 31 December 2018. Shareholders' equity is 1,067.3 million. (1)Operating income before depreciation, amortizationand write down of both tangible and intangible assets. (2) Cash and short-term financial investments less bank overdrafts and medium/long-term loans which include the measurement at fair value of hedging derivatives. Business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021 The Board of Directors of Recordati S.p.A. also approved the business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021. The financial expectations for the plan period are the following: For 2019, as already announced on 21 December 2018, our targets are to achieve sales ranging from 1,430 million to 1,450 million, an EBITDA of between 520 and 530 million, EBIT of between 460 and 470 million and net income of between 330 and 335 million. For 2021, including the contribution of further acquisitions which may be completed within the period under analysis, we expect to achieve sales of around 1,700 million, EBITDA of around 650 million, operating income of around 560 million and net income of around 400 million. As already announced on 15 April 2019, Recordati will present the results of the first quarter 2019 and the business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021, approved by the Board of Directors, at the London Stock Exchange tomorrow 9 May at 10:30. Management comments "The financial results obtained in the first quarter of the year confirm the continued growth of the Group", declared Andrea Recordati, CEO. "Furthermore, in February we signed a license agreement with Aegerion Pharmaceuticals Inc. for the exclusive rights to commercialize Juxtapid, currently approved for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), in Japan. The agreement includes a right of first negotiation for product commercialization in Japan of any potential new indications that may be developed by Aegerion. The addition of Juxtapid to our portfolio of rare disease products in Japan is very important for the development of our recently established subsidiary in this country, given its potential for significant growth," continued Andrea Recordati. "Finally, the Board of Directors examined and approved the three-year business plan which confirms the Group's commitment to continue to follow the successful growth strategy implemented in recent years. Alongside the growth and development of our current business we intend to pursue an intense but disciplined and focused M&A activity with the objective of accelerating the Group's growth and adding sustainable value for shareholders. Over the plan period we expect a revenue average growth rate of 7.9%, an average growth rate of 9.2% for EBITDA, 8.2% for operating income and 8.6% for net income." Recordati, established in 1926, is an international pharmaceutical group, listed on the Italian Stock Exchange (Reuters RECI.MI, Bloomberg REC IM, ISIN IT 0003828271), with a total staff of more than 4,100, dedicated to the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals. Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Recordati has operations throughout the whole of Europe, including Russia, Turkey, North Africa, the United States of America, Canada, Mexico, some South American countries, Japan and Australia. An efficient field force of medical representatives promotes a wide range of innovative pharmaceuticals, both proprietary and under license, in a number of therapeutic areas including a specialized business dedicated to treatments for rare diseases. Recordati is a partner of choice for new product licenses for its territories. Recordati is committed to the research and development of new specialties with a focus on treatments for rare diseases. Consolidated revenue for 2018 was 1,352.2 million, operating income was 442.2 million and net income was 312.4 million. For further information: Recordati website: www.recordati.com Investor Relations Media Relations Marianne Tatschke Studio Noris Morano (39)0248787393 (39)0276004736, (39)0276004745 e-mail: investorelations@recordati.it e-mail: norismorano@studionorismorano.com Statements contained in this release, other than historical facts, are "forward-looking statements" (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These statements are based on currently available information, on current best estimates, and on assumptions believed to be reasonable. This information, these estimates and assumptions may prove to be incomplete or erroneous, and involve numerous risks and uncertainties, beyond the Company's control. Hence, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All mentions and descriptions of Recordati products are intended solely as information on the general nature of the company's activities and are not intended to indicate the advisability of administering any product in any particular instance. RECORDATI GROUP Summary of consolidated results prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) (thousands of ) INCOME STATEMENT First quarter 2019 First quarter 2018 Change % REVENUE 382,990 366,500 4.5 Cost of sales (116,466) (109,288) 6.6 GROSS PROFIT 266,524 257,212 3.6 Selling expenses (94,563) (91,687) 3.1 Research and development expenses (29,152) (27,664) 5.4 General & administrative expenses (17,254) (16,372) 5.4 Other income (expenses), net 455 (958) n.s. OPERATING INCOME 126,010 120,531 4.5 Financial income (expenses), net (3,991) (4,856) (17.8) PRE-TAX INCOME 122,019 115,675 5.5 Provision for income taxes (29,907) (29,083) 2.8 NET INCOME 92,112 86,592 6.4 Attributable to: Equity holders of the parent 92,100 86,580 6.4 Non-controlling interests 12 12 0.0 EARNINGS PER SHARE First quarter 2019 First quarter 2018 Change % Basic 0.451 0.417 8.2 Diluted 0.440 0.414 6.3 Earnings per share (EPS) are based on average shares outstanding during each year, 204,019,974 in 2019 and 207,417,146 in 2018, net of average treasury stock which amounted to 5,105,182 shares in 2019 and to 1,708,010 shares in 2018. Diluted earnings per share is calculated taking into account stock options granted to employees. COMPOSITION OF REVENUE First quarter 2019 First quarter 2018 Change % Total revenue 382,990 366,500 4.5 Italy 82,223 78,926 4.2 International 300,767 287,574 4.6 RECORDATI GROUP Summary of consolidated results prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) - (thousands of ) ASSETS 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 Property, plant and equipment 125,946 103,582 Intangible assets 688,866 672,462 Goodwill 579,241 579,557 Equity investments 21,491 20,773 Non-current receivables 5,991 5,860 Deferred tax assets 79,404 81,267 TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 1,500,939 1,463,501 Inventories 202,987 206,084 Trade receivables 286,743 245,742 Other receivables 29,141 38,462 Other current assets 9,394 5,193 Fair value of hedging derivatives (cash flow hedge) 7,965 6,414 Short-term financial investments, cash and cash equivalents 184,677 198,036 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 720,907 699,931 TOTAL ASSETS 2,221,846 2,163,432 EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 Share capital 26,141 26,141 Capital in excess of par value 83,719 83,719 Treasury stock (134,151) (145,608) Hedging reserve (8,749) (8,399) Translation reserve (149,322) (154,146) Other reserves 45,006 43,081 Retained earnings 1,204,126 897,990 Net income for the period 92,100 312,376 Interim dividend (91.761) (91,761) GROUP SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 1,067,109 963,393 Minority interest 205 193 SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 1,067,314 963,586 Loans due after one year 646,679 640,647 Employees' termination pay 19,433 19,547 Deferred tax liabilities 45,800 45,653 Other non-current liabilities 3,257 3,257 TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 715,169 709,104 Trade payables 139,234 165,020 Other payables 88,355 85,534 Tax liabilities 61,815 42,149 Other current liabilities 17,995 19,359 Provisions 20,949 21,446 Fair value of hedging derivatives (cash flow hedge) 9,336 9,746 Loans due within one year 77,902 130,583 Bank overdrafts 23,777 16,905 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 439,363 490,742 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 2,221,846 2,163,432 DECLARATION BY THE MANAGER RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING THE COMPANY'S FINANCIAL REPORTS The manager responsible for preparing the company's financial reports Fritz Squindo declares, pursuant to paragraph 2 of Article 154-bis of the Consolidated Law on Finance, that the accounting information contained in this press release corresponds to the documental results, books and accounting records. Attachment Champion of data-driven asset efficiency's appointment further enhances strength-in-depth of renewable energy capabilities The UK government has just thrown down the gauntlet to the wind energy sector: deliver more than 30 gigawatts (GW) of capacity by 2030. The appointment of Dr Peter Clive as Black Veatch's Principal Renewable Wind Energy Consultant will help the company's clients rise to this challenge. "Wind power is maturing. Creating new capacity is not just about building more; it is about increasing the generation efficiency of existing arrays, and ensuring new arrays are as efficient as we can possibly make them," according to Clive. "Key to this is data-driven investments, extracting all the available information from target and reference sites to minimise project uncertainty and boost project value." Clive will enhance Black Veatch's rapidly growing UK renewable offering with expertise in the development of second-generation wind Lidar systems, which enable wind fields to be surveyed with previously unobtainable detail and precision, revealing flow characteristics and structures that have a significant impact on the productivity and longevity of wind power assets. This is in addition to his detailed understanding of innovative resource assessment techniques. "The UK has something of a wind energy paradox. Although Britain has the largest installed offshore capacity in the world, in 2018 this only accounted for eight per cent of the overall electricity generated," said Robbie Gibson, Black Veatch's UK Director for Renewable Energy. "Wind's potential, though, is self-evident. During the last week of April 2019, one third of the country's power came from on and offshore wind. Clive's appointment will help us realise that potential on a sustained basis." Clive's appointment is a further example of Black Veatch's drive to provide clients with leading-edge, digitally-enabled real-time decision making, artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning expertise that will deliver predictive performance insights, and resilience across their assets. In February 2019 the company announced a tie-up with AI and machine learning experts EMAGIN. In March 2019, Black Veatch launched a Smart Maintenance business combining technology-driven maintenance methodologies and smarter instrumentation, control and automation technology with its programme management, logistics and delivery expertise to create digitally enabled maintenance teams. Click here to download a photo of Peter Clive Editor's Notes: Peter Clive has more than 15-years' experience in renewable energy engineering, encompassing solar and tidal as well as on and offshore wind. Globally, Black Veatch has supported the development of 26 GW of wind energy and 25 GW of solar energy. In January 2019 UK energy regulator OFGEM has awarded its latest Renewable Electricity Generator Audits contract to Black Veatch. In February 2019 Black Veatch was awarded the Design Services Contract for the Morlais tidal energy demonstration zone. In April 2019 Black Veatch was selected to provide engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for a new 150-megawatt (MW) onshore wind facility for Capital Power in Illinois, USA. About Black Veatch Black Veatch is an employee-owned, global leader in building critical human infrastructure in Energy, Water, Telecommunications and Government Services. Since 1915, we have helped our clients improve the lives of people in over 100 countries through consulting, engineering, construction, operations and program management. Our revenues in 2017 were $3.4 billion. Follow us on www.bv.com and in social media. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005406/en/ Contacts: Black Veatch MALCOLM HALLSWORTH +44 1737 856594 p +44 7920 701764 m HallsworthM@BV.com 24-HOUR MEDIA HOTLINE +1 866 496 9149 Novice and Experienced Investors Can Earn 35X More on Assets with SEC-Registered Securities in Account CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Investor Cash Management (ICM) today announced the launch of its patent-pending cash management accounts linked directly to specified SEC-registered securities such as government money market and ultra-short bond funds. The company has partnered with DriveWealth, LLC, a leader in global digital trading technology, to provide technology, brokerage and clearing services for the new white-label accounts. Unlike conventional bank, high-yield savings and brokerage sweep accounts, the new ICM accounts provide an unmatched combination of higher rates - more than 35 times the national bank average of six basis points - and immediate, unrestricted liquidity. The accounts enable end-users to transform SEC-registered securities into digital currencies to make payments via debit card, ATM and online bill pay. ICM CEO Fred Phillips said: "Our mission is to support our distribution partners - including asset managers, advisors and affinity partners - by providing them with turnkey, customized white-label cash management accounts. These include a mobile app on Apple and Android, desktop portal, and investment card - our patent-pending debit card linked to specified securities. In turn, our distribution partners can offer superior value-creating accounts to their clients and members." DriveWealth CEO Robert Cortright said: "We're very excited to partner with ICM and help fuel its new innovative accounts. DriveWealth is all about providing the infrastructure to allow our partners to create digital financial products for their retail customers. Our customizable suite of APIs enables ICM to build its offering right on top of our infrastructure in a way that provides a seamless experience to the end user." Added Phillips: "DriveWealth is a wonderful partner that shares in our top priorities: combining superb technology, a commitment to democratize investing, and the vision to offer its services globally. We are pleased to work together in the U.S. and international markets." Morningstar founder and executive chairman Joe Mansueto, also a significant investor in and advisor to ICM, said: "ICM's unique technology eliminates friction - transaction costs, overwhelming choice, lack of liquidity - to enable our distribution partners to convert savers into investors, and to enable investors to obtain far better returns on their assets." Lance Weaver, former chairman of the board of Mastercard International and head of ICM's advisory board, said: "Until now, individuals viewed payments and investments as separate activities linked to separate accounts. With ICM-powered accounts, for the first time clients can have all their assets fully invested and immediately liquid; now, the investment account and the payments account are the same." Cornell Brooks, former president of the NAACP and now the Harvard Kennedy School's Professor of Leadership and Social Justice, is a senior advisory board member of ICM. He said: "For far too long, there has been a persistent investment and wealth gap in the United States. Community groups can partner with ICM to offer accounts that are a simple, powerful tool to enable underserved individuals to become investors and access products that enable them to build better, more inclusive financial futures." Phillips said: "To enhance our product offering and customer experience, we are proud to collaborate with industry leaders including DriveWealth; Mastercard; Plaid, a leader in client authentication; Sutton Bank, a leading card issuer; and Allpoint, the nation's largest ATM network. What makes ICM unique is our ability to transform SEC-registered investment products into digital currencies for payments, which in turn is driven by a robust, agile set of APIs." With customers and partners in more than 140 countries, DriveWealth is the pioneer in bringing digital access to the U.S. securities market for investors around the world. The company, which launched its patent-pending real-time fractional share trading capabilities in 2016, was founded with the mission to democratize investing in the U.S. stock market by making it available to everyone, globally, at an affordable cost. About DriveWealth DriveWealth Holdings, Inc., wholly owns DriveWealth, LLC, a member of FINRA and SIPC. DriveWealth, LLC is a licensed carrying and self-clearing broker offering digital brokerage solutions to broker-dealers, advisors and online partners worldwide through its proprietary investment platform. DriveWealth, LLC delivers access to the U.S. securities markets along with an array of digital products that power both emerging and established financial companies. For more information, please visit DriveWealth.com. About ICM Investor Cash Management uses its patent-pending technology to link cash management accounts directly to specified SEC-registered securities (e.g., government money market and/or ultra-short bond funds), thereby transforming securities into digital currencies to make payments via debit card, ATM and online bill pay. ICM supports its distribution partners - including asset managers, advisors and affinity partners - by providing them with turnkey, customized white-label cash management accounts, including a customized mobile app on Apple and Android, desktop portal and investment card (its patent-pending debit card linked to specified securities). For more information, please visit InvestorCashManagement.com. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/882519/ICM_JPG_Logo.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/783298/DriveWealth_Logo.jpg Company brings Kubernetes and multi-cloud expertise to drive innovation in cloud adoption strategy AUSTIN, Texas, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- SoftServe, a leading digital authority and consulting company, today announced it has attained the VMware PKS Solution Competency. SoftServe is also a Pivotal Advanced Partner. The services SoftServe provides from the application layer down to the infrastructure layer help clients reliably deploy and run containerized workloads across public and private clouds. "As a PKS Global Services Partner we are fueling our clients' innovation with accelerated multi-cloud adoption and open source Kubernetes," said Todd Lenox, VP global partnerships at SoftServe. "As an early go to market partner with Pivotal and VMware, our deep experience in Kubernetes and container tools like Docker, Apache Spark and Elasticsearch is an essential part of creating a truly differentiated cloud adoption strategy." "We are thrilled to partner with SoftServe to bring PKS and true digital transformation to the enterprise," said Robert Schmitt, Vice President of Sales PKS Synergy Team at Pivotal. "The combination of PKS with SoftServe's deep Kubernetes experience and its expertise in modernizing applications at scale is a boon to customers ready to jumpstart and grow their digital transformations." "Kubernetes is present in nearly every industry, and use cases will grow exponentially and rapidly as we move forward," said Teri Bruns, vice president, Global Partner Solutions at VMware. "VMware PKS delivers the most enterprise-ready Kubernetes solution that runs on any infrastructure and Softserve is a trusted advisor for cloud-native initiatives and modern app deployments." Enterprise PKS is a turnkey container orchestration solution that features a fully supported upstream distribution that applies tightly packaged technologies including BOSH, NSX-T, and Harbor to speed deployment and simplify operations. It uses the latest stable OSS distribution of Kubernetes-with no proprietary extensions. With NSX-T, users can keep workloads properly isolated within a single cluster by using network segmentation. Enterprise PKS also allows users to deploy, scale, patch, and upgrade all the Kubernetes clusters in their system-without downtime-and rapidly apply security fixes when new vulnerabilities are detected. Enterprise PKS also eases the Day 2 operations burden for at-scale and highly available production grade Kubernetes. SoftServe is a Certified Kubernetes Service Provider with more than 300 Kubernetes (K8s) experts who have delivered over 100 successful projects over the last three years. For more details, please check out our latest blog. About SoftServe SoftServe is a digital authority that advises and provides at the cutting-edge of technology. We reveal, transform, accelerate, and optimize the way enterprises and software companies do business. With expertise across healthcare, retail, media, financial services, software, and more, we implement end-to-end solutions to deliver the innovation, quality, and speed that our clients' users expect. SoftServe delivers open innovation-from generating compelling new ideas, to developing and implementing transformational products and services. Our work and client experience is built on a foundation of empathetic, human-focused experience design that ensures continuity from concept to release. We empower enterprises and software companies to (re)identify differentiation, accelerate solution development, and vigorously compete in today's digital economy. No matter where you are in your journey. Visit our website, blog, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages. SoftServe Media Contact Paul Jones Senior Manager, Analyst and Public Relations pjone@softserveinc.com 512-796-7358 Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/812484/SoftServe_Logo.jpg SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The global polymer market for waste management size is expected to reach USD 5.07 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is estimated to expand at a decent CAGR of 4.0% over the forecast period. Several characteristics of polymer resins, including good welding strength, chemical resistance, and excellent low-temperature performance, in waste management processes are expected to drive the industry. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is one of the key raw materials used for manufacturing plastic-based flexible packaging materials. Key suggestions from the report: In terms of revenue, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) is projected to ascend at a CAGR of 5.8% over the forecast period Low-density Polyethylene (LDPE) is projected to exhibit a significant growth during the forecast years Asia Pacific led the global polymer market for waste management in 2017 and is projected to continue the trend over the next few years Growing awareness about the usage of engineering polymers in the construction industry is likely to open new growth opportunities for the regional market Some of the prominent companies in the global market are ExxonMobil Corporation, E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, BASF SE, LyondellBasell Industries N.V., and Formosa Plastics Corporation, U.S.A. Most of these industry participants are undertaking various initiatives, such as investments for capacity expansion, to maintain the market position Read 90 page research report with TOC on "Polymer Market for Waste Management Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (PVC, EVOH, HDPE, LDPE, EPDM), By Region (North America, Europe, MEA, APAC), And Segment Forecasts, 2019 - 2025" at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/polymer-market-for-waste-management The demand of polyvinyl chloride is highly dependent on the construction industry, as about 60 to 70% of the global demand is for pipe, siding, fitting, fencing, windows, and other applications. Increasing product demand from other end-use industries may result in tight raw material supply, hampering market growth. Polypropylene and polyethylene are thermoplastic polymers used in a variety of applications. Growth in the manufacturing and construction industry has been driving the polypropylene market over the past few years; however, its overproduction has led to a decrease in prices. Rapidly expanding construction sector in India and China, on account of the presence of favorable regulatory support to improve the infrastructure at a domestic level, is expected to boost the utilization of geomembranes. This, in turn, is likely to augment the demand for polymers for waste management in this sector. Asia Pacific is expected to witness a rise in construction spending over the forecast period on account of rapid urbanization coupled with burgeoning population. Thus, growing construction sector, particularly in China and India, as a result of increasing disposable income and rising government spending on large infrastructural projects will support the market development. Grand View Research has segmented the global polymer market for waste management on the basis of product and region: - Polymer for Waste Management Product Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) EVOH HDPE LDPE EPDM PVC Others - Polymer for Waste Management Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) North America U.S. Europe Germany U.K. France Asia Pacific China India Central & South America Brazil MEA Find more research reports on Plastics, Polymers & Resins Industry, by Grand View Research: Methyl Di-p-phenylene Isocyanate (MDI) Market - Global methyl di-p-phenylene isocyanate (MDI) market is expected to witness substantial growth over the forecast period owing to its widespread applications in polyurethane foams, adhesives, paints & coatings, construction and automotive industry. Global methyl di-p-phenylene isocyanate (MDI) market is expected to witness substantial growth over the forecast period owing to its widespread applications in polyurethane foams, adhesives, paints & coatings, construction and automotive industry. Bakelite Market - Bakelite is also used in making bakelite jewellery owing to their fine artisanship and is expected to further complement the market growth in near future. Bakelite is also used in making bakelite jewellery owing to their fine artisanship and is expected to further complement the market growth in near future. Metalized Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) Films Market - Increasing BOPP demand in electronics, food packaging and insulation applications are expected to remain a key factor driving the global market growth. Gain access to Grand View Compass, our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports About Grand View Research Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc. Phone: +1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: sales@grandviewresearch.com Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/661327/Grand_View_Research_Logo.jpg Seattle, Washington--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - CFN Media Group ("CFN Media"), the leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the North American cannabis industry, announces publication of an article discussing Halo Labs Inc. (NEO: HALO) (OTCQX: AGEEF) (FSE: A9KN). The company recently announced that it has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market, which represents an uplisting from its prior position on the OTCQB Venture Market under the ticker symbol "AGEFF". The stock began trading on the OTCQX under the symbol "AGEEF" on April 30, and investors can already access all of its financial disclosures and real-time level two quotes. Many Canadian cannabis companies trade on the OTC Markets rather than a national exchange due to restrictive U.S. cannabis regulations and higher costs. While many U.S. investors have access to OTC-listed securities, there is a wide range of transparency levels that can impact investment decisions and liquidity. The OTCQX is the highest tier of the OTC Markets exchange and represents the utmost transparency from issuers. Focus on Transparency Halo Labs listed on Canada's NEO Exchange in October of last year, which is a relatively new senior stock exchange that takes a disclosure-based approach to listing companies in the U.S. cannabis sector. The exchange improves the investor experience by eliminating predatory market behavior like high-frequency trading, implementing a unique market making program to ensure liquidity, and offering free real-time market data for everyone. The move to the OTCQX represents a similar commitment to transparency and reflects the company's strong financial position, operating track record, asset base and commitment to disclosure. The OTCQX requires that companies have minimum levels of assets, revenue, net income, and/or market capitalization, as well as meet certain penny stock exemptions. Companies must also meet certain disclosure requirements that ensure investors remain informed through customary channels. "I am excited to see Halo upgrading to the OTCQX Market, the highest tier market that the OTC offers," said Kiran Sidhu, CEO of Halo Labs. "This is a major milestone for Halo and reflects our long operating track record, significant operations and commitment to disclosure to investors. We are excited for this up listing as it opens up the Company to a wider pool of investors throughout the U.S." The move could open the door to a greater pool of investors, which could in turn increase liquidity and make the stock more appealing to larger investors. Please click here to receive additional Investor Information & Corporate Updates Numerous Catalysts Ahead The move to the OTCQX comes as Halo Labs continues to build out its cannabis concentrates and oil business in the United States. In March, the company reported record revenue of approximately US$2.8 million driven by expansion into California which has become the driving force of the company. Recently the Company recruited two executives to bolster its California leadership team. Chad Kanner and Gurpreet Sahani will both help expand the company's California-based operations by leaning on their extensive experience and relationships. In the meantime, the company continues to build up its Oregon business and expand into other states. The company operates under two licenses for manufacturing and cultivation in Nevada with a pending license for distribution. The team is selling one private label and two in-house brands across 18 dispensaries with its 8,000 sq. ft. licensed processing facility near the Las Vegas airport-and the state could become a major source of revenue in the future. In addition to the U.S., the company has established an international partnership in Africa. The partnerships include a 14-hectare land package off-take agreement, a 20 percent equity stake and a $0.50 to $2.00 royalty on a signed letter of intent in Lesotho Africa. Looking Ahead Halo Labs Inc. (NEO: HALO) (OTCQX: AGEEF) (FSE: A9KN) uplisting to the OTCQX comes as it continues its expansion throughout the United States. By increasing transparency and investor access, the company's stock could see greater liquidity and attract larger investors over time. In the meantime, investors may want to keep an eye on the stock as it continues to expand its footprint and generate shareholder value. Please click here to receive additional Investor Information & Corporate Updates For more information, visit the company's website at www.halocanna.com. Please follow the link to read the full article on CFN: https://www.cannabisfn.com/halo-labs-improves-transparency-with-move-to-otcqx/ About CFN Media CFN Media (CannabisFN) is the leading creative agency and media network dedicated to legal cannabis. We help marijuana businesses attract investors, customers (B2B, B2C), capital, and media visibility. Private and public marijuana companies and brands in the US and Canada rely on CFN Media to grow and succeed. Learn how to become a CFN Media client company, brand or entrepreneur: http://www.cannabisfn.com/featuredcompany Download the CFN Media iOS mobile app to access the world of cannabis from the palm of your hand: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cannabisfn/id988009247?ls=1&mt=8 Or visit our homepage and enter your mobile number under the Apple App Store logo to receive a download link text on your iPhone: http://www.cannabisfn.com Disclaimer CannabisFN.com is not an independent financial investment advisor or broker-dealer. You should always consult with your own independent legal, tax, and/or investment professionals before making any investment decisions. The information provided on http://www.cannabisfn.com (the 'Site') is either original financial news or paid advertisements drafted by our in-house team or provided by an affiliate. CannabisFN.com, a financial news media and marketing firm enters into media buys or service agreements with the companies that are the subject of the articles posted on the Site or other editorials for advertising such companies. We are not an independent news media provider. We make no warranty or representation about the information including its completeness, accuracy, truthfulness or reliability and we disclaim, expressly and implicitly, all warranties of any kind, including whether the Information is complete, accurate, truthful, or reliable. As such, your use of the information is at your own risk. Nor do we undertake any obligation to update the items posted. CannabisFN.com received compensation for producing and presenting high quality and sophisticated content on CannabisFN.com along with financial and corporate news. The above article is sponsored content. Emerging Growth LLC, which owns CannabisFN.com and CFN Media, has been hired to create awareness. Please follow the link below to view our full disclosure outlining our compensation: http://www.cannabisfn.com/legal-disclaimer/ Frank Lane 206-369-7050 Flane@cannabisfn.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44622 Zayo Shareholders to Receive $35.00 per share in Cash Transaction Valued at $14.3 Billion Transaction would result in Zayo becoming a private company World-class network assets well positioned to meet connectivity-driven demand in key North America and Europe markets Global investment firms, EQT and Digital Colony, uniquely positioned to support Zayo in growing its business Zayo Group Holdings, Inc. ("Zayo" or "the Company") (NYSE: ZAYO), which provides mission-critical bandwidth to the world's most impactful companies, today announced that it has signed a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by affiliates of Digital Colony Partners ("Digital Colony") and the EQT Infrastructure IV fund ("EQT" or "EQT Infrastructure"). The transaction would result in Zayo transitioning from a public company to a private company. Under the new ownership, the Zayo team would continue to execute the Company's strategy and remain headquartered in Boulder, Colorado. Under the terms of the agreement, which was unanimously approved by Zayo's Board of Directors, shareholders will receive $35.00 in cash per share of Zayo's common stock in a transaction valued at $14.3 billion, including the assumption of $5.9 billion of Zayo's net debt obligations. The offer price represents a 32% premium to the volume-weighted price average of the last six months of $26.44. Dan Caruso, Zayo's Chairman and CEO, said, "Digital Colony and EQT share our vision that Zayo's Fiber Fuels Global Innovation. Both are experienced global investors in the communications infrastructure space, and they appreciate our extraordinary fiber infrastructure assets, our highly talented team and our strong customer base. I am confident this partnership with EQT and Digital Colony will empower Zayo to accelerate its growth and strengthen its industry leadership." Marc Ganzi, Managing Partner of Digital Colony, said, "Zayo has a world-class digital infrastructure portfolio, including a highly-dense fiber network in some of the world's most important metro markets. We believe the company has a unique opportunity to meet the growing demand for data associated with the connectivity and backhaul requirements of a range of customers. We are excited to work alongside the management team and EQT to grow the business and expand its presence in the global market." "We are excited by the opportunity to team up with Zayo, in a transaction reflecting EQT's commitment to investing in market leading infrastructure companies whose innovations and services are transforming society," said Jan Vesely, Partner at EQT Partners, Investment Advisor to EQT Infrastructure. "As one of the most active global infrastructure investors with a demonstrated track record of success in the telecommunications and fiber industry, we are confident that EQT, along with Digital Colony, are ideal partners for Zayo as the Company embarks on its next phase of growth. We look forward to working closely with Zayo's global team, whose entrepreneurship, collaboration and customer partnerships are best in class." "Following a comprehensive review of strategic alternatives, the Zayo Board of Directors concluded that the sale of Zayo to Digital Colony and EQT Infrastructure is in the best interest of Zayo and all its stakeholders," said Yancey Spruill, Zayo's Lead Independent Director. "The transaction delivers immediate and substantial value to shareholders and will strengthen Zayo's financial flexibility, enabling the company to increase investments and better position itself for long-term growth and profitability." The closing of the deal is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory clearance and Zayo shareholder approvals. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of calendar 2020. Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan are serving as financial advisors to Zayo Group in connection with the transaction and Skadden Arps is serving as legal counsel. Morgan Stanley and Deutsche Bank are acting as financial advisors to Digital Colony and EQT Infrastructure, and Simpson Thacher is serving as legal advisor. For further information regarding all terms and conditions contained in the definitive merger agreement, please see the Company's form 8-K, which will be filed in connection with this transaction. For more information about Zayo, visit zayo.com. About Zayo Zayo Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ZAYO) provides mission-critical bandwidth to the world's most impactful companies, fueling the innovations that are transforming our society. Zayo's 130,000-mile network in North America and Europe includes extensive metro connectivity to thousands of buildings and data centers. Zayo's communications infrastructure solutions include dark fiber, private data networks, wavelengths, Ethernet, dedicated Internet access, and colocation services. Zayo owns and operates a Tier 1 IP Backbone and 51 carrier-neutral data centers. Through its Cloudlink service, Zayo provides low latency private connectivity that attaches enterprises to their public cloud environments. Zayo serves wireless and wireline carriers, media, tech, content, finance, healthcare and other large enterprises. For more information, visit zayo.com. About Digital Colony Digital Colony is a global investment firm dedicated to strategic opportunities in digital infrastructure. The firm was launched in 2018 by Digital Bridge Holdings, LLC, a leading investor in and operator of companies enabling the next generation of mobile and internet connectivity, and Colony Capital, Inc. (NYSE: CLNY) a leading global real estate and investment management firm. The firm brings together Digital Bridge's industry, operational and investment expertise in the telecommunications sector with Colony Capital's 26 years of experience as a global investment manager. For more information, please visit www.digitalcolony.com. About EQT EQT is a leading investment firm with more than EUR 61 billion in raised capital across 29 funds and around EUR 40 billion in assets under management. EQT funds have portfolio companies in Europe, Asia and the US with total sales of more than EUR 19 billion and approximately 110,000 employees. EQT works with portfolio companies to achieve sustainable growth, operational excellence and market leadership. More info: www.eqtpartners.com. Forward Looking Statements Certain statements made herein, including, for example, statements regarding the benefits of the transaction, certainty of the transaction, the anticipated timing of the transaction and future results or expectations of the Company, are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements typically include words such as "believes," "expects," "plans," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "could," "may," "will," "should," or "anticipates" or the negatives thereof, other variations thereon or comparable terminology. No assurance can be given that future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements will be achieved, and actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on management's current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, many of which are beyond our control, and are not guarantees of future results or achievements. Consequently, no forward-looking statements may be guaranteed and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments anticipated by such forward looking statements will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company or its businesses or operations. As a result, you should not place undue reliance on any such statements and caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements: the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the delay or termination of the merger agreement; the outcome or length of any legal proceedings that have been, or will be, instituted related to the merger agreement; the inability to complete the merger due to the failure to timely or at all obtain stockholder approval for the merger or the failure to satisfy other conditions to completion of the merger, including the receipt on a timely basis or at all of any required regulatory clearances related to the merger; the failure of Parent to obtain or provide on a timely basis or at all the necessary financing as set forth in the equity commitment letters delivered pursuant to the merger agreement; risks that the proposed transaction disrupts current plans and operations and the potential difficulties in employee retention as a result of the merger; the effects of local and national economic, credit and capital market conditions on the economy in general; and the other risks and uncertainties described herein, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed from time to time in our other reports and other public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") as described below. The foregoing review of important factors that could cause actual events to differ from expectations should not be construed as exhaustive. Additional information concerning these and other factors that could affect our forward-looking statements, see our risk factors, as they may be amended from time to time, set forth in our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, and in any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K or other filings with the SEC. Our SEC filings are available publicly on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, on the Company's website at https://investors.zayo.com or by contacting the investor relations department of the Company. Except to the extent required by applicable law, we disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional Information about the Proposed Merger And Where To Find It In connection with the proposed merger, the Company will file a proxy statement on Schedule 14A with the SEC. Additionally, the Company plans to file other relevant materials with the SEC in connection with the proposed merger. This press release is not a substitute for the proxy statement or any other document which the Company may file with the SEC. The definitive proxy statement will be sent or given to the stockholders of the Company and will contain important information about the proposed merger and related matters. INVESTORS IN AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF THE COMPANY ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT ARE FILED OR FURNISHED OR WILL BE FILED OR WILL BE FURNISHED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING OR INVESTMENT DECISION WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSED MERGER BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN OR WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE MERGER, RELATED MATTERS AND THE PARTIES TO THE MERGER. The materials to be filed by the Company with the SEC may be obtained free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or by contacting the investor relations department of the Company. Participants in the Solicitation This press release does not constitute a solicitation of a proxy from any stockholder with respect to the proposed merger. However, the Company and its directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Company stockholders in connection with the proposed merger. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names, affiliations and interests of the Company's executive officers and directors in the solicitation by reading the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2018, the Company's definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A for the 2018 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and the proxy statement and other relevant materials filed with the SEC in connection with the merger if and when they become available. Additional information concerning the interests of the Company's participants in the solicitation, which may, in some cases, be different than those of the Company's stockholders generally, will be set forth in the proxy statement relating to the merger when it becomes available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described in the preceding paragraph filed, with or furnished to the SEC. All such documents, when filed or furnished, are available free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or by contacting the investor relations department of the Company. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005445/en/ Contacts: For Zayo: Brad Korch, Investor Relations 720-306-7556 IR@zayo.com For Digital Colony Partners: Alex Stanton Charlyn Lusk, Stanton 212-780-0701/646-502-3549 astanton@stantonprm.com / clusk@stantonprm.com For EQT: Stephanie Greengarten 646-687-6810 stephanie.greengarten@eqtpartners.com Daniel Yunger Cathryn Vaulman, Kekst CNC 212-521-4800 daniel.yunger@kekstcnc.com / cathryn.vaulman@kekstcnc.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - TerraX Minerals Inc. (TSXV: TXR) (FSE: TX0) (OTC Pink: TRXXF) is pleased to provide a corporate update and further information about its proposed 2019 exploration plans on its Yellowknife City Gold (YCG) Project. David Suda, President and CEO, stated: "We would like to thank our shareholders for their commitment and patience over the past 12 months. The company has gone through significant changes and achieved several key milestones (figure A). This work has brought us to a major inflection point in the company's history and has put TerraX on the verge of what could be a very significant discovery. We look forward to announcing more details regarding phase 1 of our exploration plans in the coming weeks." Figure A To view an enhanced version of Figure A, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3219/44631_ba14ef8e04f3599e_002full.jpg Summer Drilling Top Targets In early 2019, TerraX identified 4 top priority targets. Comprehensive review of the targets including the use of historical data and 2019 assays of historical core, has led to a focus on deposit expansion at Crestaurum and Sam Otto, as well as the advancement of targeting on the North Giant Extension within the Barney Deformation Corridor. Barney Deformation Corridor Earlier this year, TerraX confirmed the extension of gold mineralization on structures that hosted the Giant Mine onto TerraX property (figure 1). TerraX will conduct surface work including geophysical and geochemical surveys for future drill targeting, as well as continuing our review of historical core data. Figure 1: Extension of gold mineralization structures from Giant Mine To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3219/44631_ba14ef8e04f3599e_003full.jpg Joe Campbell, Executive Chairman and Chief Geologist, stated: "The extension of the Con-Giant Mine structure onto our property is one of the most exciting exploration opportunities I have seen in my career. Large discoveries are few and far between and this is a rare chance to explore such great potential." Crestaurum Target A drill program focused on high grade deposit expansion will center on the Crestaurum Main zone, the previously undrilled Crestaurum North (Shear 17), and the Crestaurum hanging wall structures, particularly in the favourable yet underexplored area where they intersect with the Barney Deformation Corridor (figure 2). Figure 2: Crestaurum Target To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3219/44631_ba14ef8e04f3599e_004full.jpg Sam Otto Target Step-out drilling will target Sam Otto South which features higher grade gold lenses within a 100 meter wide bulk tonnage zone (figure 3). The identification of this through-going structure has provided the possibility to expand the deposit significantly. There is potential to extend strike from 1km to 4km. Figure 3: Sam Otto Target To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3219/44631_ba14ef8e04f3599e_005full.jpg Historical Core Analysis of the historical core acquired in late 2018 (news release March 18, 2019) is ongoing to aid us in discovery more quickly and efficiently in our core gold area (figure 4). We will selectively assay core in conjunction with surface work to define the extension of the Con/Giant trend onto our property, as well as provide vectors to drilling our other two targets. Figure 4: Core Gold Area To view an enhanced version of Figure 4, please visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3219/44631_ba14ef8e04f3599e_006full.jpg The 2019 exploration program at the YCG Project will build off the technical and operational successes achieved in 2018. The program is currently being finalized and details will be released in the coming weeks. For more information please refer to our May 2019 Corporate Presentation (or click here). About the Yellowknife City Gold Project The Yellowknife City Gold ("YCG") project encompasses 783 sq km of contiguous land immediately north, south and east of the City of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Through a series of acquisitions, TerraX controls one of the six major high-grade gold camps in Canada. Being within 10 km of the City of Yellowknife, the YCG project is close to vital infrastructure, including all-season roads, air transportation, service providers, hydro-electric power and skilled tradespeople. The YCG project lies on the prolific Yellowknife greenstone belt, covering 70 km of strike length along the main mineralized break in the Yellowknife gold district, including the southern and northern extensions of the shear system that hosted the high-grade Con and Giant gold mines. The project area contains multiple shears that are the recognized hosts for gold deposits in the Yellowknife gold district, with innumerable gold showings and recent high-grade drill results that serve to indicate the project's potential as a world-class gold district. For more information on the YCG project, please visit our web site at www.terraxminerals.com. On behalf of the Board of Directors "DAVID SUDA" David Suda President and CEO For more information, please contact: Samuel Vella Manager of Corporate Communications Phone: 604-689-1749 Toll-Free: 1-855-737-2684 svella@terraxminerals.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains forward-looking information, which involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual events to differ materially from current expectation. Important factors - including the availability of funds, the results of financing efforts, the completion of due diligence and the results of exploration activities - that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations are disclosed in the Company's documents filed from time to time on SEDAR (see www.sedar.com). Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The company disclaims any intention or obligation, except to the extent required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44631 BEIJING, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- ACWA Power, a leading developer, owner, and operator of power generation and water desalination plants has signed strategic agreements with three renowned Chinese entities on the sidelines of the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF). The agreements with PowerChina, China Gezhouba Group Company (CGGC) and Bank of China will lay the ground for collaboration in key investments and further involve Chinese expertise in manufacturing power generation and desalinated water production plants that ACWA Power develops and operates. Commenting on the occasion, Paddy Padmanathan, President & CEO ACWA Power, said: "The sum of growing collaborations between ACWA Power and Chinese entities only solidifies the relationship of trust and companionship between us and our Chinese partners. It goes beyond merely conducting business - it is a reflection of the robust Saudi-Chinese ties that we have nurtured along the years. As a leading developer of power and water assets committed to supplying water and electricity at low costs while driving investments, it is always a pleasure to work with entities that complement our business model and continually amplify on the work we deliver. We are confident these partnerships will open new doors of collaboration on future and grander projects across the world." First out of three agreements took place during the Belt & Road CEO Conference. Mr. Padmanathan, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACWA Power, and Mr. WANG Lujun, Chairman of SEPCO III, signed an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract which grants SEPCO III Electric Power Construction Corporation, a subsidiary of PowerChina, to serve as the EPC contractor of Al Taweelah desalination plant. Located in Abu Dhabi, Al Taweelah is considered the world's largest desalination facility capable of supplying 200 million gallons per day. The collaboration is dedicated to improving people's access to water and promoting social development via construction and investment. Followed by the first signing, ACWA Power entered into an agreement with China Gezhouba Group International Engineering Company (CGGC Intl). Mohammed Abunayyan, Chairman of ACWA Power, signed a Cooperation Agreement with Mr. Lyu Zexiang,Chairman of CGGC Intl which outlines that CGGC was announced as the official EPC contractor in 2018 for Nam Dinh 1, a Greenfield Independent Power Project (IPP) located in Vietnam. CGGC will also assist sponsors to obtain project finance from Chinese financial institutions. Co-developed by ACWA Power and Korean Taekwang Power, the project was finalised at a total investment cost of more than US$2.4 billion with the first phase yielding a production capacity of 1,200 MW. ACWA Power concluded its agreements with a MoU signed between Rajit Nanda, Chief Investment Officer at ACWA Power, and Mr. ZHANG Wei, the General Manager of Bank of China (Hongkong) Hochiminh City Branch. The MoU incorporates general financial service agreements for Nam Dinh 1 IPP. The Bank of China is one of the four biggest state-owned commercial banks in China and is the official leading financing bank for Nam Dinh 1 IPP. On the 26th of April and in the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Mohamed Abunayyan attended the opening ceremony of BRF alongside foreign heads of state and government officials, and selected delegates from over 100 countries and international organisations. About ACWA Power: ACWA Power is a developer, investor and operator of a portfolio of power generation and desalinated water production plants currently with presence in 11 countries including in the Middle East and North Africa, Southern Africa and South East Asia regions. ACWA Power employs over 3,500 people with about 60% local employment. ACWA Power's portfolio, with an investment value in excess of USD 45 billion, can generate 30+ GW of power and produce 4.8 million m3 /day of desalinated water to be mostly delivered on a bulk basis to state utilities and industrial majors on long term off-take contracts under Public-Private-Partnership, Concession and Utility Services Outsourcing models. ACWA Power, registered and head-quartered in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is owned by eight Saudi conglomerates, Sanabil Direct Investment Company (owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia), the Saudi Public Pensions Agency and the International Finance Corporation (a member of the World Bank Group). ACWA Power pursues a mission to reliably deliver electricity and desalinated water at a low cost, thereby contributing to the social and economic development of the communities and countries it invests in and serves. ACWA Power strives to achieve success by adhering to the values of Safety, People and Performance in operating its business. For more info, please visit www.acwapower.com. @acwapower Media contact details: Jon Barber Director - Marketing & Communications jbarber@acwapower.com +971(0)45091052 Mohamed Yousef Ibrahim Manager - Marketing & Public Relations mibrahim@acwapower.com +966(0)556607402 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/879037/ACWA_Power.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/826465/ACWA_Power_Logo.jpg CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage DENVER, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Last year was a year of maturation for the cannabis market. California's growing pains are a recipe for success for handful of savvy operators Brands, consistency and scalability likely deciding factors for many companies Projected global market size an open-and-shut case for scaling up NA sector The market growth resulted from retailers in nine legal adult-use states being pushed beyond the sector's historically core demographics, targeting fast-growing new segments such as women, with an emphasis on elements such as wellness and clearly labeled/low-dose alternatives. That trend was reinforced with CBD breaking out into the mainstream, as industrial hemp became legal throughout the United States, and cannabis companies looked for ways to stand out from the crowd. Some companies were more successful at this than others, with TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE:TCAN) (XETR:TH8) (Profile) making huge strides recently to expand the upper-end procurement part of the business, as well as flesh-out its footprint of branded offerings. Other moves have been made by comparable sector players such as Canopy Growth Corporation (NYSE:CGC) (TSX:WEED), DionyMed Brands Inc. (OTC:DYMEF) (CSE:DYME), Cresco Labs Inc (OTC:CRLBF) (CSE:CL) and CannaRoyalty Corp. (OTC:ORHOF) (CSE:OH), which are pursuing similarly comprehensive approaches to the sector that run the gamut from raw inputs to changing branding, marketing and distribution methods. To view an infographic of this editorial, click here. Diverse Markets Hold Big Potential California's administrative and tax regime may have cost the state half a billion dollars or more in potential cannabis market tax revenues through over regulation, with the state being the first market in the world since transitioning in 2016 from medical to recreational that has actually witnessed a subsequent decline in the size of the legal retail market. This is in stark contrast to Massachusetts and Nevada, which both dramatically outperformed expectations. And while the California legal retail market may have come in around half a billion shy of projected targets, the illicit market is doing just fine, with an estimated value of $3.7 billion last year, accounting for as much as 80% of all sales. This is a clear indicator that the potential exists to have hit analyst-projected targets for the legal market, had California regulators not handicapped a growing industry just as things were really getting started. In fact, with thousands of cultivation and manufacturing licenses set to expire in the next few months and only Senate Bill 67 on the horizon to address the problem, some analysts are predicting that California may see supply shortages in the near future. At any rate, the national and international markets are shaping up quite nicely, with the most recent worldwide consumer spending estimates from Arcview Market Research and BDS Analytics showing a 39.1% year-over-year jump to $17 billion in 2019 and beyond. This is a market which is on track to run at an estimated 26% CAGR through 2022, hitting upwards of $31.6 billion, making it an extremely lucrative export market for sophisticated North American cannabis brands. Self-Contained Ecosystem and Closed-Loop Brands Founded in 2017 with the goal of genuine seed-to-sale capability and rapidly acquiring a bevy of premium cannabis brands, Vancouver-based TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE:TCAN) (XETR:TH8) is pursuing a true "self-contained ecosystem" approach to the sector via its California-based, wholly owned subsidiaries. TransCanna is intent on ensuring maximum brand consistency by handling every aspect of the production process - from procurement and branding and design through to distribution, transportation, marketing and sales. The company's latest acquisition announcement will see TransCanna picking up such well-performing Goodfellas Group LLC brands as Daily Cannabis Goods, which saw more than 2,100 units shipped during its first month in August of last year before breaking the 10,000 mark just four months later. TransCanna anticipates adding at least three more items to the Daily Cannabis Goods product mix and also managed to pick up the proprietary, in-house Simple brand of user-friendly Simple Kit products in the Goodfellas Group deal, which are specially crafted to give new users a positive first cannabis experience. Forged in the Crucible of a Nascent Industry The company cut its teeth amid the growing pains of California's burgeoning - but still very young - recreational market. Today TransCanna appears well poised to successfully deliver on a closed-loop cannabis model that can cost effectively bring goods to market while still dealing with prevailing regulations. CEO TransCanna Jim Pakulis spoke in mid-April of the company's tremendous efforts to complete the acquisition of what is arguably the largest vertically-integrated cannabis focused facility in California. The $15 million acquisition consists of a 196,000-square-foot, turnkey manufacturing facility on a 5.5-acre piece of land in Modesto, estimated to be able to support expansion of the site with an additional 400,000 to 600,000 square feet of facilities for cultivation. Total revenues from the acquisition, including manufacturing, extraction, distribution and cannabis sales, are currently projected to be from $220 million to $363 million a year. A recent independent third-party business valuation firm's conclusion put the enterprise value of the proposed business, at around $50 to $75 million. That estimate includes things such as the value of the recently renovated manufacturing facility's institutional-grade packaging and extraction equipment. This appears to be a sweetheart deal, placing the company in a solid position to take advantage of a potential supply shortfall in California. Similarly, the move sets up TransCanna for success on the rapidly developing national and international stages. Growth Financing Gone Well In addition, the company originally announced a CD$10 million broker-syndicated private placement but within short order was oversubscribed to CD$16 million. The funds were used to assist in the aforementioned acquisition and has already executed a sublease agreement for an additional 10,000 square feet of multipurpose floorspace in Adelanto, California. This satellite facility is the first of five anticipated satellite distribution network facilities that will be strategically located throughout the state to support TransCanna's goal of quickly having 15 reliable, consistent, branded products on offer at the scale necessary to keep the business growing alongside demand. The completely fenced Adelanto complex is reportedly of superior quality and already has existing round-the-clock armed security, making it a solid deal at a negotiated price of $2 per square foot per month for four years, which is roughly 30% below current market rates. Furthermore, TransCanna recently applied for a permanent manufacturing, distribution and transportation license for Adelanto, proving that the company's immediate focus is on ensuring city and state licenses are in hand as soon as possible. The company anticipates applying for licenses with the local regulatory body in Modesto by the first of June. The company anticipates being able to prepare and package the Daily Cannabis Brand half gram pre-rolls at the facility, then transport them straight to dispensaries without the need to involve a third party or incur any additional expenses. Cannabis Companies Making Big Moves Canopy Growth Corporation (NYSE:CGC) (TSX:WEED), one of the largest players in the space, has made big moves lately to expand its footprint in both North American and Europe. In April, Canopy announced a definitive agreement to acquire leading multistate operator Acreage Holdings Inc. outright in a deal valued at around $3.4 billion. This massive deal could make Canopy a real juggernaut, with a leading position in every major international market for legal cannabis. The move will give the company a sizeable presence in the United States as Canopy rolls out its U.S. hemp operations in parallel, which will span cultivation, extraction, processing, and packaging. DionyMed Brands Inc. (OTCQB:DYMEF) (CSE:DYME), while still a relatively small company compared to others in this area, has nevertheless put together a compelling model. The company's approach spans multistate cannabis brands as well as a distribution and direct-to-consumer delivery platform. The company recently managed to secure a roughly $7.34 million agreement with a syndicate of agents co-led by Canaccord Genuity Corp. and leading Canadian independent investment dealer Cormark Securities. Cresco Labs Inc. (OTCQX:CRLBF) (CSE:CL) has also been making big moves in the sector, recently prequalifying for a cultivation and processing license in Michigan and signing a letter to acquire VidaCann, one of the biggest and most advanced medical cannabis providers in Florida. The VidaCann deal would put Cresco in operation in six of the country's most populous states, granting access to some 140 million potential customers (roughly 65 percent of the total addressable U.S. cannabis market). Cresco also signed a definitive agreement in April to acquire California-based CannaRoyalty Corp. (OTCQX:ORHOF) (CNSX:OH), which does business under the well-known Origin House moniker as a leading cannabis products distributor, as well as a provider of brand support services. CannaRoyalty has built a serious operation with more than 50 brands under the Origin House name. The Cresco Labs acquisition would harness the branded product development and distribution expertise of two of the industry's top players. TransCanna is banking on the future of intelligently executed cannabis brand offerings, not just in California and North America but around the world as well. With longer-term projections of $57 billion by 2027 for the global market, the company could be setting the cornerstones today of a self-contained ecosystem weed empire that may one day see its premium brands in dispensaries all over the globe. Investors may want to keep tabs on TransCanna as the company's growing brand portfolio and physical presence in California begin to bear fruits. For more information about TransCanna Holdings, please visit TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE:TCAN) (XETR:TH8). 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CannabisNewsWire (CNW) & NetworkNewsWire (NNW) are proud to be affiliated partners of the Investor Brand Network (IBN) About IBN Over the past 10+ years we have consistently introduced new network brands, each specifically designed to fulfil the unique needs of our growing client base and services. Today, we continue to expand our branded network of highly influential properties, leveraging the knowledge and energy of specialized teams of experts to serve our increasingly diversified list of clients. Please feel free to visit the Investor Brand Network (IBN) http://www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com Corporate Communications Contact: CannabisNewsWire (CNW) Denver, Colorado www.CannabisNewsWire.com 303.498.7722 Office Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com Media Contact: FN Media Group, LLC NNW@FinancialNewsMedia.com +1-(954)345-0611 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Viridium Pacific Group Ltd. ('Viridium' or the 'Company') (TSX-V: VIR) (OTC PINK: VIRFF) is pleased to announce its wholly owned subsidiary, Experion Biotechnologies Inc. ('Experion'), a licensed cultivator and processing company under the Cannabis Act, recently supplied 600 clones to one of the first licensed Micro-Cultivators in Canada through a buy back option agreement. Located in British Columbia ('BC'), the Micro-Cultivator received 600 clones with an option for Experion to purchase the flower back under a profit-sharing agreement. Buyers of Experion's clones are newly licensed cultivators looking for quality genetics to launch their cultivation process for both the medical and adult-use markets. Experion has supplied over 2,500 clones over the last three months to licensed cultivators throughout BC and Alberta. Under the Cannabis Act, a cultivation license can sell product to other licensed facilities allowing Experion to foster new business to business ('B2B') relationships and the ability to create quick strategic partnerships as the market becomes established. Mr. Jay Garnett, Chief Executive Officer, commented, 'Experion strongly believes in the Micro-Cultivation and Craft Growing industry, and we are excited to be supporting the participants in this sector. Partnering with new cultivators enables Experion to accomplish a myriad of goals while adding shareholder value. By offering new cultivators proven genetics, sound guidance and advice, and distribution options for their product, Experion benefits from another revenue source, increased capacity and potential expansion of our product offering in the marketplace under the Citizen Stash brand. Micro-Cultivators' unique abilities and commitment to quality enhances the Cannabis industry, and we are proud to be working with one of the first licensed in Canada.' About Viridium Viridium Pacific Group Ltd. is the parent company of Experion Biotechnologies Inc., a Health Canada licensed cultivatior and processor of Cannabis, based in Mission, BC; and EFX labs, a medical products production and clinical research company based in Calgary, AB. Viridium is invested in a portfolio of products including to address a wide spectrum of consumer needs' including Medical, Adult-use, and Wellness and Therapeutic products. For further information, please visit the Company's www.viridiumpacific.com or contact Viridium Pacific Group Ltd. Judy-Ann Pottinger, Investor Relations Tel: (604) 617-5290 Email: judy-ann@experionwellness.com Disclosure This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Although the Company believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, forecast, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to: the state of the financial markets for the Company's equity securities; recent market volatility; the Company's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; the risks identified in the Filing Statement, and other risks and factors that the Company is unaware of at this time. The reader is referred to the Filing Statement dated September 25, 2017 and/or the most recent annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects, copies of which may be accessed through the Company page on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. SOURCE: Viridium Pacific Group Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544613/Experion-Partners-with-Micro-Cultivators-in-the-Emerging-Craft-Growing-Industry Houston, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - MarijuanaStox announces publication of an article that discusses Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. (CSE: LDS) (OTC: LDSYF). The company produces cannabis-infused CannaStrips (similar to breath strips) that are not only a safer, healthier option to smoking, but also a new way to accurately meter the dosage and assure the purity of the product. Increased Demand for High-End CBD Products CBD has been created one of the biggest growth stories of 2019. Even consumers are clamoring for CBD. Neiman Marcus is pushing ahead with CBD sales at some of its stores and online. Simon Property Group is partnering with Green Growth Brands to open 108 stores in its malls just in 2019. Barney's will launch "The High End." CVS will carry a line of CBD products in eight states, including California, Illinois, Colorado, and Alabama. Walgreen's will sell CBD products, including creams, patches, and sprays. Even the Vitamin Shoppe just announced it's selling CBD soft gels, and will soon begin selling CBD drops. According to CNBC, Vitamin Shoppe hopes that selling CBD products will help further distinguish itself as it fends off competition from Amazon and other online retailers who make it easy for consumers to order vitamins and protein powders online. Even the CEO of Whole Foods has indicated he's keeping a close eye on cannabis regulation, suggesting that it could show up on shelves. "If cannabis is ever passed in Texas," he said, as quoted by Leafly, "chances are good that grocery stores will be selling that, too." In addition, according to the Brightfield Group, worldwide CBD sales are expected to soar from $591 million in 2018 to as high as $22 billion by 2022 - a compound growth rate of 147%. Lifestyle Delivery Systems is Expanding Rapidly The company just announced that its flagship product CannaStrips was just delivered to multiple new stores. Aside from self-distribution of the product, the company is working with Rise Distribution to roll out to 200+ stores and Hometown Heart delivery services this week. Some of the stores that have already received the product include All About Wellness, Horizon Collective, Relief CCR, Smartweed, (BARC) Beverly Hills Collective, 515 Broadway, The Kana Co., Showgrow, One Love Beach Club, The Lift, and Leaf & Lion. Other companies, such as BARE Dispensary, Cathedral City Care Collective, and Palm Royal Collective will take delivery between April 9, 2019 and April 10, 2019. In addition, Lifestyle Delivery announced that the Bureau of Cannabis Control just approved its licensee, CSPA Group Inc. for a Provisional Transportation and Distribution License. This provisional license is the last step before a permanent annual license is issued. "The issuance of this provisional transportation and distribution license is just one more brick in the vertical integrated foundation of the LDS family of licensees and their operations. The provisional license is the precursor to the permanent annual transportation and distribution license The corporate compliance team continues to work on all aspects of SOPs and regulatory compliance, including implementation of operational best practices in all of our licensed activities. The Company will continue to update the market on all relevant events and accomplishments related the LDS companies," noted Brad Eckenweiler CEO of LDS. For more information, visit the company's website at https://www.lifestyledeliverysystems.com About MarijuanaStox MarijuanaStox.com is a leading web destination for all cannabis related companies. Investors can also find current marijuana-related quality financial, medical, legal and social news. MarijuanaStox.com is a media agency in North America dedicated to the cannabis industry, helping companies that operate in the space to attract quality investors, working capital and real publicity. Since 2005, we have had public companies in the US and Canada have rely on us to grow and succeed. Legal Disclaimer Except for the historical information presented herein, matters discussed in this article contain forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Winning Media which has a partnership with www.MarijuanaStox.com is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority and does not provide nor claims to provide investment advice or recommendations to readers of this release. For making specific investment decisions, readers should seek their own advice. Winning Media, which has a partnership with www.MarijuanaStox.com, is only compensated for its services in the form of cash-based compensation. Pursuant to an agreement between Winning Media (partners of MarijuanaStox.com) and Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc., Winning Media has been paid four thousand dollars for advertising and marketing services for Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. We own ZERO shares of Lifestyle Delivery Systems Inc. Please click here for full disclaimer. Contact Information: 2818047972 ty@marijuanastox.com SOURCE: MarijuanaStox.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44641 Financialnewsmedia.com News Commentary PALM BEACH, Florida, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Over the past couple of years the increasing consumer demand for medical and legal recreational cannabis has been growing and more and more governments are steadily moving to full legalization. A report from the Green Fund stated: "The global cannabis market is thought to be worth USD$150 billion today. Barclays, in their European Consumer Staples Report in September 2018, suggests that this figure could increase to USD$272 billion by 2028. The UN estimates that approximately 3.9% of the global adult population, or 190 million people, are cannabis users (vs. 1 billion smokers). The highest prevalence of cannabis users was found to be from Europe, followed by the US and the Oceania Region. Although small, the Oceania Region is considered significant given its access to the Asia Pacific region." The report continued: "Despite the sharp divides in support for cannabis legalization, a few things are clear: public support for marijuana legalization continues to increase, the industry is already a multibillion-dollar juggernaut that looks primed for continued expansion, and there are clear potential medical benefits of cannabis. Active Companies from around the market with current developments this week include: Marijuana Company of America, Inc. (OTC:MCOA), Medical Marijuana, Inc. (OTCPK: MJNA), Kona Gold Solutions, Inc. (OTCPK: KGKG), Aleafia Health Inc. (TSX: ALEF) (OTCQX: ALEAF), Terra Tech Corp. (OTCQX: TRTC). However, as global recognition of the benefits of medicinal cannabis increases, and the end of the 'prohibition era' for cannabis beckons, there is a burgeoning need for high-quality products with known components, cultivated at large scale for consistent, reliable supply to health users. It would be safe to say that the Cannabis industry will soon become the most lucrative and thriving industrial sector in the world. Cannabis cultivation has traditionally been a fragmented cottage industry with minimal quality standards. Marijuana Company of America, Inc. (OTCQB:MCOA) BREAKING NEWS: Marijuana Company of America, an innovative hemp and cannabis corporation, is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, hempSMART, Ltd., is taking steps to list on the Vienna Stock Exchange (H Smart SARL), with the intention of raising sufficient capital to expedite the roll-out of its hempSMART product line in Europe. Marijuana Company of America plans to sell a minority interest of hempSMART, Ltd., currently engaged in developing and marketing the hempSMART brand in Europe, for up to $10 million. The Company expects that all of the necessary steps to be trading on the Vienna exchange will be completed by the beginning of the third quarter of 2019. Once listed, hempSMART, Ltd. will be one of the first U.S.- based hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) companies to do an initial listing on a European exchange, as most cannabis and hemp public companies opt to list in Europe as a secondary listing. This is a result of the Company's commitment to prioritize its marketing efforts in the bourgeoning European cannabis, hemp and CBD markets, with future plans to expand further. "We are very excited to do an IPO of hempSMART, Ltd. on such a reputable European exchange," said Don Steinberg, CEO of Marijuana Company of America. "This is a huge leap forward to obtain the necessary capital to bolster our European launch, and become a top hemp brand in Europe. Europe's cannabis and hemp markets are undergoing a critical phase in their growth and this is the optimum time to establish our brand as a leader. To date, we have exceeded expectations at our London event in March. In order to capitalize on this positive market momentum, we have planned two additional events in England, with two more following in Liverpool and Birmingham." hempSMART, Ltd. is expected to enter Portugal later this month, with future plans to extend further in France, Germany and Austria. hempSMART Ltd. markets and sells the Company's hemp and hemp-based personal wellness products, including the US patented hempSMART Brain, an effective wellness product formulated with proprietary composition of natural ingredients and CBD to enhance brain function.Read this and more news for MCOA at: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-mcoa/ In the industry developments and happenings in the market this week include: Medical Marijuana, Inc. (OTCPK: MJNA) the first-ever publicly traded cannabis company in the United States, recently announced that its subsidiary Kannaway has released its new Single-Serving Coffee and Tea Pods, infused with 10 mg of hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) per pod. "Kannaway's Single-Serving CBD-infused Coffee and Tea Cups provide a fast and pre-measured way to ingest your daily dose of CBD without disturbing your daily routine," said Kannaway CEO Blake Schroeder. "These new products fill a need in the CBD market that very few products currently offer and we are confident that consumers will love the convenience they provide." Kona Gold Solutions, Inc. (OTCPK: KGKG) a hemp and CBD lifestyle brand focused on product development in the functional beverage sector, recently announced the sponsorship of World Ranked #1 professional skier, Ryan Dodd.Ryan Dodd has signed a two-year agreement with Kona Gold where he will represent the brand's Kona Gold Hemp Energy Drinks on a global level as he travels and competes in events around the world. "Kona Gold is a leader and innovator in the functional beverage industry. We found it fitting to join forces and continue to raise the bar together setting the Gold Standard. I'm so excited for the future with this premier lifestyle brand," stated Ryan Dodd. Aleafia Health Inc. (TSX: ALEF) (OTCQX: ALEAF) recently announced that it is entering the German medical cannabis market via its joint-venture (the "JV") with German pharmaceutical wholesaler Acnos Pharma GmbH ("Acnos"), together (the "Parties"). The JV entity will purchase Aleafia Health branded cannabis oils for distribution to German pharmacies and for clinical trial usage. Aleafia Health's wholly-owned subsidiary Emblem Cannabis Corp. ("Emblem") is the majority shareholder of the JV with 60 per cent ownership with Acnos owning the remaining 40 per cent. The Parties have expanded the scope of the previously announced JV formed by Acnos and Emblem, by leveraging the significantly increased access to dried flower and extraction available to the combined entity. The German medical cannabis market has grown rapidly since legalization in 2017, and is projected to produce revenues of $5 billion in 2025 for cannabis producers, according to a report by Bank of Montreal. Market advantages in Germany include significantly higher margins compared to the Canadian market and reimbursement of patient purchasing costs through private and public health insurance, which is almost entirely non-existent in North America. Terra Tech Corp. (OTCQX: TRTC), a vertically integrated cannabis-focused agriculture company, recently announced the start of cannabis sales to the City of San Leandro's adult use market. On March 19, 2019 the San Leandro City Council approved adult use sales with a start date of May 1, 2019. After completing their review, the State approved the local authorization and issued the provisional adult and medical license May 2, 2019. The City has approved three retail facilities; however the Company currently operates the only dispensary that is currently open in the City at 1915 Fairway Drive San Leandro, CA, 94577. The provisional license is valid for one year. Terra Tech's Blum San Leandro dispensary has seen consistent medical foot traffic and a significant number of adult users, over 200 a week on average, who have been turned away since the medical facility opened its doors on January 11, 2019 due to the prior restriction on sales. The company expects robust sales in San Leandro which is a prominent suburb city of San Francisco and Oakland, centered in the dynamic San Francisco Bay Area, with a vibrant community of more than 89,000 residents. The City also encompasses a large industrial area that is home to an advanced manufacturing industry. DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates Financialnewsmedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM 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. FNM'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. FNM 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 FNM expects to be compensated forty six hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press release issued by Marijuana Company of America, Inc. by a non-affiliated third party. FNM 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 FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements. Media Contact : editor@financialnewsmedia.com +1(561)325-8757 Kymeta to provide mobile connectivity solutions to the sole satellite operator in Turkey Kymeta - the communications company that is completing the connectivity fabric for everything, everywhere announced a new partnership with Turksat, one of the world's leading companies providing satellite communications across a wide area extending from Europe to the Middle East and Africa, at Satellite 2019. The partnership will bring connectivity solutions to Turksat customers for voice, data, internet, TV, and radio broadcasting. Kymeta solutions provide reliable communications at high speeds and on rough seas or terrains. Turksat provides flexible solutions aimed at customers' needs in regions where no terrestrial infrastructure is available. Kymeta's solutions help Turksat take connectivity where it has never been before. "Partnering with Turksat allows Kymeta to provide coverage through their satellite communications with our end-to-end solutions on both land and sea," said Neville Meijers, Kymeta Chief Commercial Officer. "We are excited about the possibilities this partnership opens." "This partnership will help further our mission of bringing different languages and cultures together through satellite communications," said Hasan Huseyin Ertok, Turksat Vice President. "Kymeta's proven antenna technology will allow us to pursue previously untapped markets and applications in satellite communications. As the only satellite operator in Turkey, this is critical to enhancing the service offerings in our nation and beyond." About Kymeta Kymeta is unlocking the potential of satellite connectivity, combined with cellular networks, to satisfy the overwhelming demand for global ubiquitous mobile connectivity. The company's flat-panel satellite antenna, the first of its kind, and Kymeta KALO connectivity services provide revolutionary mobile connectivity on satellite and hybrid satellite-cellular networks to customers around the world. Backed by U.S. and international patents and licenses, the Kymeta terminal addresses the need for lightweight, slim, and high-throughput communication systems that do not require mechanical components to steer toward a satellite. Kymeta makes connecting easy for any vehicle, vessel, or fixed platform. Kymeta is a privately held company based in Redmond, Washington. For more information, visit kymetacorp.com. About Turksat Turksat, one of the leading operators in the satellite communication business, offers flexible solutions by providing its customers with cable and wireless broadcasting, high-speed internet, and direct TV services. Turksat has made it a mission to transform information technology into services applicable to the everyday life. The company builds communication networks, and enhances innovative projects to provide seamless connectivity outside terrestrial network via Turksat satellites. For further information, visit www.turksat.com.tr. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005230/en/ Contacts: Business Inquiries for Kymeta: Sam Christensen Marketing Kymeta Corporation +1 425.658.8703 schristensen@kymetacorp.com Media Inquiries for Kymeta: Melanie McBride Vice President, Content and PR The Summit Group +1 801.990.8464 mmcbride@summitslc.com Business Inquiries for Turksat: Nejat Doger Satellite Services Marketing and Planning Directorate Turksat A.S. +90 312 925 2030 ndoger@turksat.com.tr Media Inquiries for Turksat: Merva Sahin Corporate Communication Directorate Turksat A.S. +90 312 925 2057 merva.sahin@turksat.com.tr CORAL GABLES, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / The Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group, a global insurtech group that designs software solutions for insurance and reinsurance professionals in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, will demonstrate its reinsurance solution, WebXL, at IASA in Phoenix, June 2-5 and showcase digital agility for reinsurance transformation. "Insurers need a reinsurance solution that will be able to respond to changing regulations and markets," says Gregory Moliner, CEO USA. "WebXL has demonstrated its flexibility by serving American insurers with widely varying needs and requirements." WebXL enhances management of ceded reinsurance by replacing legacy systems and clunky spreadsheets and quickly enabling additional portfolios' integration. Available in a cloud-based version, it optimizes reinsurance management and simplifies all processes, including run-off portfolios, managing natural catastrophe claims and generating decision-making reports. At this year's conference, Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group will allow attendees to learn more about its innovative solutions: Two dedicated vendor tours: Reinsurance Systems & Services and Policy Administration in a Digital World Tailored in-depth demos Meet Gregory Moliner and his team at booth 1033. To arrange an appointment or a demo at IASA, sign up here. The 2019 Insurance Accounting and Systems Association (IASA) conference will attract more than 2,500 insurance accounting, technology, operations and financial professionals. About Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group The Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group is a global insurtech group that designs software solutions for insurance and reinsurance professionals in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific. It covers all business processes from life and health insurance (group and individual) to non-life and life reinsurance, in addition to regulatory compliance and business intelligence, including predictive simulations and actuarial calculations. With more than 300 customers and a worldwide network of partners, Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group enables insurance companies to accelerate their digital transformation, thanks to its highly configurable and scalable web software platform available in the cloud. www.prima-solutions.com/en About Prima Solutions-Effisoft USA Based in Coral Gables, Florida, Effisoft USA is the group's North American division. U.S. clients include State Auto Insurance Companies, The Motorists Insurance Group, USAA, AXA, FBL and other insurers. www.effisoft.com/en https://www.effisoft.com/en/News/WebXL/prima-solutions-effisoft-group-showcases-digital-agility-for-reinsurance-transformation-at-iasa-conference-phoenix-june-2-5.html Contact: Henry Stimpson, Stimpson Communications, 508-647-0705, Henry@StimpsonCommunications.com SOURCE: The Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544358/Prima-Solutions-Effisoft-Group-Showcases-Digital-Agility-for-Reinsurance-Transformation-at-IASA-Conference-Phoenix-June-2-5 8 May 2019 PRESS RELEASE Results of the Annual General Meeting of GAM Holding AG Hugh Scott-Barrett re-elected as chairman of the Board of Directors (BoD) Benjamin Meuli, Nancy Mistretta and David Jacob re-elected to the BoD Katia Coudray, Jacqui Irvine and Monika Machon elected as new members of the BoD At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 8 May 2019, the shareholders of GAM Holding AG approved all resolutions proposed by the BoD, including the management report, the parent company's financial statements and the consolidated financial statements for 2018, with the exception of granting discharge to the BoD and the Group Management Board (GMB) (49.43% voted for, 41.51% voted against and 9.06% abstained). Elections to the Board of Directors Katia Coudray, Jacqui Irvine and Monika Machon were elected as new members of the BoD. Chairman Hugh Scott-Barrett and the other members of the BoD who stood for re-election were confirmed for a term until the end of the next AGM. The proposed members of the compensation committee (Nancy Mistretta, Benjamin Meuli and Katia Coudray) were also confirmed, respectively elected as a new member. Compensation decisions In a non-binding consultative vote, the shareholders approved the compensation report for 2018. The shareholders approved the proposed maximum aggregate compensation amounts for the BoD for the coming one-year term of office and the maximum aggregate amount of fixed compensation for the GMB for 2019, and they also approved the variable compensation of the GMB for the 2018 financial year. Hugh Scott-Barrett, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said: "On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank all shareholders who attended today's Annual General Meeting. I am pleased to be able to welcome Katia Coudray, Jacqui Irvine and Monika Machon to the board. I am convinced that their extensive experience and expertise in their respective areas will be valuable to us. We also acknowledge today's vote on the discharge for the 2018 financial year. We understand this decision of some shareholders in the context of the continued liquidation of the ARBF funds. As previously announced, the completion of the liquidation is expected by mid-July 2019." Further information relating to the AGM of GAM Holding AG, including the voting results on all agenda items, can be found at www.gam.com/agm2019 . Upcoming events: 30 July 2019 Half-year results 2019 17 October 2019 Q3 2019 interim management statement For further information please contact: Media Relations: Investor Relations: Marc Duckeck Patrick Zuppiger T: +41 58 426 62 65 T: +41 58 426 31 36 Tobias Plangg Jessica Grassi T: +41 58 426 31 38 T: +41 58 426 31 37 Visit us at: www.gam.com Follow us on: Twitter and LinkedIn About GAM GAM is a leading independent, pure-play asset manager. The company provides active investment solutions and products for institutions, financial intermediaries and private investors. The core investment business is complemented by private labelling services, which include management company and other support services to third-party asset managers. GAM employs approximately 900 people in 14 countries with investment centres in London, Cambridge, Zurich, Hong Kong, New York, Milan and Lugano. The investment managers are supported by an extensive global distribution network. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and is a component of the Swiss Market Index Mid (SMIM) with the symbol 'GAM'. The Group has AuM of CHF 137.4 billion (USD 138.0 billion) as at 31 March 2019, excluding ARBF-related AuM of CHF 1.35 billion in liquidation. Disclaimer regarding forward-looking statements This press release by GAM Holding AG ('the Company') includes forward-looking statements that reflect the Company's intentions, beliefs or current expectations and projections about the Company's future results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, performance, prospects, strategies, opportunities and the industry in which it operates. Forward-looking statements involve all matters that are not historical facts. The Company has tried to identify those forward-looking statements by using words such as 'may', 'will', 'would', 'should', 'expect', 'intend', 'estimate', 'anticipate', 'project', 'believe', 'seek', 'plan', 'predict', 'continue' and similar expressions. Such statements are made on the basis of assumptions and expectations which, although the Company believes them to be reasonable at this time, may prove to be erroneous. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that could cause the Company's actual results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, performance, prospects or opportunities, as well as those of the markets it serves or intends to serve, to differ materially from those expressed in, or suggested by, these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause those differences include, but are not limited to: changing business or other market conditions, legislative, fiscal and regulatory developments, general economic conditions, and the Company's ability to respond to trends in the financial services industry. Additional factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release any update of, or revisions to, any forward-looking statements in this press release and any change in the Company's expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which these forward-looking statements are based, except as required by applicable law or regulation. Attachment Seattle, Washington--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - CFN Media Group ("CFN Media"), the leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the North American cannabis industry, announces the publication of an article discussing how TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE: TCAN) has been cementing its leadership position in California with the moves to acquire Goodfellas Group LLC, a full-service advertising and marketing agency, and to license its Adelanto facility. With the addition of new distribution channels and brands, the company is taking a massive leap forward as it looks to eventually become a leading cannabis distributor in the Golden State. Let's take a closer look at the Goodfellas acquisition and the licensing of its Adelanto facility to see how both events could lead to significant growth opportunities. Click here to receive an investor deck and corporate updates Building Relationships with Goodfellas TransCanna signed a non-binding letter of intent to acquire Goodfellas Group in January, which contributes to both its production and distribution profile. With 25 cannabis clients in its roster, the full-service advertising and marketing firm leverages its extensive relationships with dispensaries and retailers throughout California to help clients succeed. Always on the lookout to add value to its portfolio, TransCanna will be vetting some of the existing clients of Goodfellas for potential future acquisitions. "It's critically important that in order for our future brands to be successful in the cannabis and hemp space, we have to have relationships with the dispensaries and retailers, who in turn have the relationships with the end users," says TransCanna CEO Jim Pakulis. "Through GoodFellas, we'll have immediate access to many of the most successful dispensaries in California, and retailers throughout the US." TransCanna has also moved to acquire two brands in conjunction with the acquisition, including the Simple Kit and Daily Cannabis Goods. The Simple Kit is designed for first-time cannabis users that are unsure about how to consume cannabis, while Daily Cannabis Goods is a successful brand of pre-rolls that has already shipped more than 2,000 units per month to dispensaries throughout the state. Click here to receive an investor deck and corporate updates Expanding In-House Distribution In addition to making acquisitions, TransCanna continues to build out its internal projects, including its Adelanto, CA facility. The company applied for a permanent manufacturing, distribution, and transportation license in late-April 2019 with the goal of putting city and state licenses in place as quickly as possible. The move could open the door to significant distribution potential for its own goods and other third-party brands. The company intends to prepare and package the Daily Cannabis Brand pre-rolls at the facility once the Goodfellas acquisition is closed, and then deliver the products to dispensaries without the need for any third-party involvement. By cutting out the middleman, the company will have greater flexibility in expanding its distribution footprint and growing its state-wide distribution network for in-house and third-party products. "[Our goal is to] use the Adelanto facility as the first TransCanna satellite distribution network facility throughout the state in an effort to provide reliability, consistency and quality to dispensaries, and just as importantly scale TransCanna's ecosystem as expeditiously as possible," said Mr. Pakulis in a press release announcing the news. The same press release mentioned that investors can expect an update on its Modesto facility in the near-term. Click here to receive an investor deck and corporate updates Looking Ahead TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE: TCAN) (XETR: TH8) has been making significant progress in its quest to become a leading cannabis distributor in California. With the potential acquisition of Goodfellas, the company could begin generating near-term revenue and have immediately distribution capacity for its Adelanto facility. Investors may want to keep an eye on the stock as it continues to make progress over the coming quarters. For more information, visit the company's website at www.transcanna.com. Please follow the link to read the full article: https://www.cannabisfn.com/transcanna-looks-to-streamline-production-and-distribution/ About CFN Media For Visitors and Viewers CFN Media's Cannabis Financial Network (CannabisFN.com) is the destination for savvy investors and business people profiting from the worldwide cannabis industry. Viewers will see breaking news, exclusive content and original programming involving the people, companies and investments shaping the industry. For Cannabis Businesses & Companies CFN Media is a leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the cannabis industry. We help private, pre-public and public cannabis companies in the US and Canada attract capital, investors and media attention. Our powerful digital media and distribution platform conveys a company's message and value proposition directly to accredited and retail investors and national media active in the North American cannabis markets. Since 2013, CFN Media has enabled the world's preeminent cannabis companies to thrive in the capital and public markets. Learn how to become a CFN Media client company, brand or entrepreneur: http://www.cannabisfn.com/featuredcompany Disclaimer CannabisFN.com is not an independent financial investment advisor or broker-dealer. You should always consult with your own independent legal, tax, and/or investment professionals before making any investment decisions. The information provided on http://www.cannabisfn.com (the 'Site') is either original financial news or paid advertisements drafted by our in-house team or provided by an affiliate. CannabisFN.com, a financial news media and marketing firm enters into media buys or service agreements with the companies that are the subject of the articles posted on the Site or other editorials for advertising such companies. We are not an independent news media provider. We make no warranty or representation about the information including its completeness, accuracy, truthfulness or reliability and we disclaim, expressly and implicitly, all warranties of any kind, including whether the Information is complete, accurate, truthful, or reliable. As such, your use of the information is at your own risk. Nor do we undertake any obligation to update the items posted. CannabisFN.com received compensation for producing and presenting high quality and sophisticated content on CannabisFN.com along with financial and corporate news. The above article is sponsored content. Emerging Growth LLC, which owns CannabisFN.com and CFN Media, has been hired to create awareness. Please follow the link below to view our full disclosure outlining our compensation: http://www.cannabisfn.com/legal-disclaimer/ Frank Lane 206-369-7050 flane@cannabisfn.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44614 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - Peekaboo Beans Inc. (CSE: BEAN) (OTCQB: PBBSF) ("Peekaboo Beans" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement of up to 4,000,000 units ("Units") at a price of $0.10 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of up to approximately $400,000 (the "Private Placement"). The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Private Placement for corporate development and general working capital purposes. Closing of the Private Placement is expected to occur on or before May 31, 2019 (the "Closing Date"). Each Unit will consist of one (1) common share (each, a "Common Share") in the capital of the company and one (1) common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.15 per Common Share until the date which is three (3) years from the Closing Date. The Company has agreed to pay certain eligible finders a finders fee (each, "Finder"): (i) a cash fee (which may be payable in Common Shares at the price of $0.10 per Common Share) equal to 8% of the gross proceeds raised by such Finder under the Private Placement; and (ii) issue Warrants to acquire such number of Common Shares equal to 8% of the total number of Units sold by each Finder under the Private Placement. All securities issued under the Private Placement, including securities issuable on exercise thereof, are subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the date hereof. The Private Placement is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange. About Peekaboo Beans Inc. Peekaboo Beans is a children's apparel brand with a focus on environmentally responsible clothes that are intentionally designed to inspire play. Through an omni-channel approach, Peekaboo Beans engages sellers through social platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, as well as online retailers, to maximize revenue and build brand loyalty. The Company works to promote a playful lifestyle for children by designing comfortable clothes that are built to last. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Peekaboo Beans Inc. Ms. Traci Costa, President and CEO (604) 279-2326 For more information, please contact the Company at: BEAN@kincommunications.com 1-866-604-6730 Reader Advisory This new release may include forward-looking information that is subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward-looking, including statements with respect to the use of proceeds from the Private Placement. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking information are based on reasonable assumptions, such information is not a guarantee of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, fluctuation in market prices, successes of the operations of the Company, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such information will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information except as required under the applicable securities laws. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAWS. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44630 Seattle, Washington--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - CFN Media Group ("CFN Media"), the leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the North American cannabis industry, announces the publication of an article covering Zenabis Global Inc. (TSXV: ZENA) and its aggressive cannabis production model. With licensed facilities in British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, near-term and large-scale expansion plans, and supply agreements in place across the country, Zenabis is aiming to take its place among Canada's very largest licensed producers. It's worth taking a look at this company that has flown under the radar a bit in terms of production capacity and nationwide distribution. Over the last few years the Canadian legal cannabis market has been flourishing as the country's federally regulated market, at first medical and now including adult-use, leads the worldwide trend toward legalization. Some licensed producers, like Canopy Growth and Aurora Cannabis, have achieved large public valuations on the back of massive cultivation capacity. These large companies might be considered the rock stars of the industry, with smaller companies looking to carve out their own niche in a subset of the market, partner with them on distribution or supply agreements, or even get acquired by them. Zenabis Global is taking a different tack. Click here to see the corporate presentation and receive updates. Existing Production and Expansion Zenabis Global started trading on the Venture exchange January 10, 2019 after completing a reverse takeover that combined two existing businesses - Bevo Agro Inc. and Sun Pharm Investments Ltd. The resulting company boasts three licensed facilities with one more currently going through a conversion process. All told, the company is building out capacity that is expected to increase from an existing ~10,000 kg/yr to ~131,000 kg/yr by the end of summer 2019, with the eventual goal of reaching ~479,000 kg/yr when all facilities reach maximum production capacity. It's an ambitious goal, but one that makes sense when examined more closely. Zenabis Atholville is the company's first facility to be licensed, in June 2017. Situated on 20 acres in New Brunswick, the 380,000 sq ft building is the largest indoor cannabis growing facility in Canada. Within that footprint, the company this year is expanding its operations in stages with anticipated full production of ~34,000 kg/yr reached by the end of summer 2019. The Atholville site also supports extraction, processing and packaging, research and development, and a call center. It is one of the largest employers in the area, and the project has benefited greatly from the company working closely with provincial and local governments. These dynamics bode well in the hyper-local atmosphere of the Atlantic Provinces. Zenabis Delta, located just south of Vancouver, BC, is a 25,000 sq ft building that received its license in August, 2017. With a relatively small cultivation footprint, Delta currently houses a call center and extraction equipment with an eye toward utilizing the building as a distribution center down the road. Considering its prime location near Vancouver, those plans make a lot of sense. Zenabis Stellarton, located in Nova Scotia, received its cultivation license in March, 2019. The indoor facility offers plenty of room for expansion, with the company currently utilizing ~80,000 of the building's 255,000 sq ft total. The company conducts R&D, extraction, and new product development there on top of cannabis cultivation. Click here to see the corporate presentation and receive updates. The fourth facility is a major greenhouse operation in Langley, BC. Currently in the late stages of the licensing process, Zenabis Langley is comprised of just over 2 million sq ft of greenhouse cultivation space. The company is converting the massive complex in stages, with the first 10 acres expected to be in production by the end of summer 2019 (pending the appropriate licensing). If that plan comes to fruition, the company expects to be producing about 96,000 kg/yr when this portion of the conversion is fully optimized. Zenabis plans to convert the whole facility eventually, with overall production estimated at 426,000 kg/yr once complete. Zenabis also has two major British Columbia greenhouse locations in its back pocket which do not contribute to any projections noted above, Zenabis Aldergrove is a 453,000 sq ft greenhouse site, and Zenabis Pitt Meadows is a 218,000 sq ft greenhouse operation. Both are currently in use for Bevo Ag's legacy propagation and floral business, but could be adapted for hemp or cannabis cultivation. In fact, Zenabis has submitted an application for industrial hemp cultivation licenses for both sites. If the company goes the route of hemp cultivation, they could become a major source of hemp-derived CBD products to address that particularly explosive niche of the cannabis products industry. Deep Cultivation Experience Enables Plan Bevo Agro is a propagation and cultivation company that started back in 1986. The company became a fixture in BC's vibrant agricultural market, specializing in the propagation of hundreds of unique crops at industrial scale. The company was highly successful, growing EBITDA at a compounded annual rate of about 20% from 2011 through 2018. With the merger that created Zenabis, all of that cultivation, operations, and distribution experience (along with extensive facilities including the Langley greenhouses) combine to give the new company a leg up on its aggressive move into industrial scale cannabis cultivation. Many companies experience growing pains as they seek to move from a producer with a small initial cultivation footprint to one with much larger capacity. Hard lessons are learned, ranging from how to staff a very large operation to how to grow plants at industrial scale to how to adapt indoor growing techniques for greenhouse cultivation. Bevo Agro's institutional experience in all of these areas gives Zenabis an advantage as it quickly scales operations. To this point, Zenabis recently provided an update on expansion progress and the yield performance of the existing operations. Those results show that, on average, actual harvest yield has exceeded the designed capacity over the last six months by about 9%. The team is not settling for that level of overperformance, however, as Zenabis Atholville tested an alternative growing method in one flower room that resulted in a yield that outperformed expectations by a whopping 47%. It should be interesting to see how the actual yield compares to the company's projections going forward. Click here to see the corporate presentation and receive updates. Distribution Agreements in Place With cultivation operations spanning the country, Zenabis is strategically located to serve the whole nation efficiently. This of course wouldn't mean much without strategic supply and distribution agreements in place, which Zenabis has in spades. The company has inked agreements with government agencies in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, New Brunswick, PEI, Nova Scotia, and Yukon Territory. The company also has distribution deals in place with Shoppers Drug Mart for medical cannabis products, and Pharmasave primarily for oil products. Zenabis has a number of existing and pending brands of products to serve a variety of markets: Zenabis for medical, Namaste for recreational, and Blazery for recreational. Other brands in the works include Dope Tribe, High Genics, Pet Options, and Founders Reserve. Combining the extensive distribution network with a comprehensive brand catalog could be a recipe for Zenabis' success. The Big Picture There is more to talk about with Zenabis, including international plans, moves into the beverages and edibles markets, and an accomplished executive team. What has been covered today shows a company with robust existing operations and a clear plan to move, in the near term, into the upper reaches of Canadian cannabis production. That level of production, combined with extensive distribution and a broad portfolio of brands, means that Zenabis won't be flying under the radar for much longer. 2019 promises to be a big year in the company's development, kind of a coming out party for Zenabis as it executes on an aggressive growth strategy. Click here to see the corporate presentation and receive updates. Please follow the link to read the full article: https://www.cannabisfn.com/zenabis-building-a-cannabis-giant-across-canada/ About CFN Media For Visitors and Viewers CFN Media's Cannabis Financial Network (CannabisFN.com) is the destination for savvy investors and business people profiting from the worldwide cannabis industry. Viewers will see breaking news, exclusive content and original programming involving the people, companies and investments shaping the industry. For Cannabis Businesses & Companies CFN Media is a leading agency and financial media network dedicated to the cannabis industry. We help private, pre-public and public cannabis companies in the US and Canada attract capital, investors and media attention. Our powerful digital media and distribution platform conveys a company's message and value proposition directly to accredited and retail investors and national media active in the North American cannabis markets. Since 2013, CFN Media has enabled the world's preeminent cannabis companies to thrive in the capital and public markets. Learn how to become a CFN Media client company, brand or entrepreneur: http://www.cannabisfn.com/featuredcompany Disclaimer CannabisFN.com is not an independent financial investment advisor or broker-dealer. You should always consult with your own independent legal, tax, and/or investment professionals before making any investment decisions. The information provided on http://www.cannabisfn.com (the 'Site') is either original financial news or paid advertisements drafted by our in-house team or provided by an affiliate. CannabisFN.com, a financial news media and marketing firm enters into media buys or service agreements with the companies that are the subject of the articles posted on the Site or other editorials for advertising such companies. We are not an independent news media provider. We make no warranty or representation about the information including its completeness, accuracy, truthfulness or reliability and we disclaim, expressly and implicitly, all warranties of any kind, including whether the Information is complete, accurate, truthful, or reliable. As such, your use of the information is at your own risk. Nor do we undertake any obligation to update the items posted. CannabisFN.com received compensation for producing and presenting high quality and sophisticated content on CannabisFN.com along with financial and corporate news. The above article is sponsored content. Emerging Growth LLC, which owns CannabisFN.com and CFN Media, has been hired to create awareness. Please follow the link below to view our full disclosure outlining our compensation: http://www.cannabisfn.com/legal-disclaimer/ Frank Lane 206-369-7050 flane@cannabisfn.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44638 Houston, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - MarijuanaStox announces publication of an article that discusses Weekend Unlimited Inc. (CSE: POT) (OTCQB: WKULF), which develops premium cannabis products with locations in Arizona, California, Oklahoma, Washington, Canada, and Jamaica. Cannabis Market is Seeing Considerable Demand CBD has been created one of the biggest growth stories of 2019. So much so, consumers are clamoring for products. As a result, CVS will carry a line of CBD products in eight states, including California, Illinois, Colorado, and Alabama. Walgreen's will sell CBD products, including creams, patches, and sprays. The Vitamin Shoppe just announced it's selling CBD soft gels, and will soon begin selling CBD drops. There is also significant opportunity especially for consumer-packaged goods companies. In fact, multi-billion-dollar industries are just now being transformed by CBD, including alcohol, health and wellness, cigarettes, and the retail industry. It's impacting a range of food, too. Everything from gummy bears and cookies to candy and brownies are being infused with CBD. Weekend Unlimited Inc. Expanding Rapidly One of the CPG companies benefiting is Weekend Unlimited, which just won an award at the fifth annual CannaGather event in New York City. The event was in celebration of CannaGather's five-year anniversary, with awards and presentations at the Prince George Ballroom with over 350 attendees representing the cannabis industry community. "We are thrilled to be recognized in the Operators category along with Canopy Growth Corporation, Curaleaf Holdings, Acreage Holdings and Greenlane Holdings as award winners," said Mr. Chris Backus, Interim President & CEO. "At this stage of our nascent industry it is vital that we come together in these venues to share ideas and collaborate on the overall growth of the industry as it will benefit consumers, legislators and the companies that are embracing a leadership role in that regard, as we do." For more information, visit the company's website at https://www.weekendunlimited.com. About MarijuanaStox MarijuanaStox.com is a leading web destination for all cannabis related companies. Investors can also find current marijuana-related quality financial, medical, legal and social news. MarijuanaStox.com is a media agency in North America dedicated to the cannabis industry, helping companies that operate in the space to attract quality investors, working capital and real publicity. Since 2005, we have had public companies in the US and Canada have rely on us to grow and succeed. Legal Disclaimer Except for the historical information presented herein, matters discussed in this article contain forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from addressed or implied by such statements. Winning Media which has a partnership with www.MarijuanaStox.com is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority and does not provide nor claims to provide investment advice or recommendations to readers of this release. For making specific investment decisions, readers should seek their own advice. Winning Media, which has a partnership with www.MarijuanaStox.com, is only compensated for its services in the form of cash-based compensation. Pursuant to an agreement between Winning Media (partners of MarijuanaStox.com) and Weekend Unlimited Inc., Winning Media has been paid four thousand dollars for advertising and marketing services for Weekend Unlimited Inc. We own ZERO shares of Weekend Unlimited Inc. Please click here for full disclaimer. Contact Information: 2818047972 ty@marijuanastox.com SOURCE: MarijuanaStox.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44642 CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the new market research report "Human Centric Lighting Market by Offering (Hardware (Lighting fixtures and Lighting Controllers), Software, and Services), Installation Type (New Installations and Retrofit Installations), Application, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2024", published by MarketsandMarkets, the Human Centric Lighting Market is projected to grow from USD 810 million in 2019 to USD 3,655 million by 2024-growing a CAGR of 35.2%. The growth of the human centric lighting market is driven by the high adoption of LED lighting solutions; initiatives toward establishing smart cities; and the rise in the demand for energy-efficient lighting solutions. Implementation of wireless technology for LED lighting is expected to provide substantial growth opportunities to market players. Ask for PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=165368838 "Lighting controllers to witness highest CAGR in human centric lighting market during 2019-2024" The market for lighting controllers is expected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2019 to 2024. The human centric lighting market for lighting controllers has been further segmented into sensors, switches and dimmers, LED drivers, microcontrollers and microprocessors, and transmitters and receivers. The control and communications components include LED drivers and ballasts, sensors, dimmers and switches, and wireless receivers and transmitters. These lighting controls enable the implementation of intelligent lighting solutions and connect human centric lighting in various spaces. "Residential applications are expected to witness highest growth rate during forecast period" The human centric lighting market for the residential application is expected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2019 to 2024. Factors such as ongoing technological advancements, increasing consumer preferences for better interior designing, and rising need for energy-efficient lighting are driving the growth of the market for decorative as well as smart lighting. Also, in residential settings, i.e., at home or in elderly care, human centric lighting can reduce sleep disorders, thereby limiting the need for cost-intensive medication and reducing nursing efforts. The growing implementation of smart lighting will lead to the increase in the demand for human centric lighting solutions in the residential sector. "Growing infrastructure and urbanization will boost demand for human centric lighting solutions in APAC during forecast period" The human centric lighting market in APAC is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Factors driving the growth of the market in this region include the rise in industrialization and commercialization and high demand for energy-efficient solutions in developing countries. In a few countries such as South Korea and Malaysia, the success of the market for energy-efficient products such as LED products depends on the ability of light source manufacturers to form a rapport with local partners. Browse in-depth TOC on "Human Centric Lighting Market" 67 - Tables 44 - Figures 163 - Pages Request Sample pages of the Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=165368838 Key players in the market include Signify Lighting NV (Netherlands), OSRAM Licht AG (Germany), Acuity Brands, Inc. (US), Cree, Inc. (US), Legrand SA (France), Hubbell Inc. (US), Zumtobel Group AG (Austria), Wipro Enterprises (P) Ltd. (India), Glamox AS (Norway), and Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. (US). These players are increasingly undertaking product launches and developments, mergers and acquisitions, contracts, partnerships, and agreements to develop and introduce new solutions in the market. Please Explore Relevant Reports: Smart Lighting Market by Offering (Hardware (Lights & Luminaires, Lighting Controls), Software, and Services), Communication Technology (Wired and Wireless), Installation Type, Application Type, and Geography - Global Forecast to 2023 Ambient Lighting Market by Offering (Hardware, and Software & Services), Type (Surface-Mounted Lights, Strip Lights, Track Lights, Recessed Lights, and Suspended Lights), End User, and Region - Global Forecast to 2023 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: Mr. Shelly Singh MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/human-centric-lighting-market.asp Visit Our Web Site: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg VALLEY COTTAGE, New York, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Estimated to witness a healthy Y-o-Y increase in revenue by more than 5% over 2018, the global cardiac reader system sales will close in on US$ 1,500 Mn in 2019. As depicted in a new research study of Future Market Insights (FMI), benchtop analyzers continue to account for over 80% of overall sales of cardiac reader systems. Although the compact analyzer modularity is seemingly gaining ground, recently, owing to the convenience of usage, it is highly likely that the sales of benchtop variants will remain on a higher side over the coming years. More than 40% of the overall demand for cardiac reader systems is catered by enzyme immunoassay analyzers, according to FMI's findings. The next high-selling types of cardiac reader systems, chemiluminescence immunoassay analyzers and magnetic immuno-chromatographic assay analyzers, hold a significant revenue share of over 45% in the global cardiac reader system sales. Request a Sample Report of Cardiac Reader Systems Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-8681 Prominent adoption of cardiac reader systems will prevail at hospitals and clinics. As revealed by FMI's analysis, diagnostics continue to gather momentum, and thus laboratories are highly likely to develop lucrative potential in terms of adoption of cardiac reader systems. By the end of 2019, more than 1/4th of the overall cardiac reader system sales will be accounted by laboratories. Troponin Remains Preferred Biomarker In around 2/5th of the cardiac reader systems sold, globally, troponin is the sought-after type of marker. According to the report, creatine kinase will also demonstrate high growth potential over other marker types in the cardiac reader system market. Troponin is highly sensitive and specific-in-action, which impart it superior diagnostic abilities over other conventional biomarkers. Except for highly sensitive cardiac injury, troponin barely shows false positive tests for the diagnosis of heart attack, angina pectoris, and myocardial infarction. Request For Customization On This Report: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/customization-available/rep-gb-8681 In line with the mounting demand for high-accuracy, time-efficient, and effective diagnostic outcomes, manufacturers of cardiac reader systems are focused on augmenting their R&D investments. According to the report, increase in R&D efforts will create a plethora of new growth opportunities for the cardiac reader system market. In addition, the notable increase in funds from PPPs (public-private partnerships) for R&D of novel cardiac biomarkers is cited as an important booster for demand growth of cardiac reader system. Developing Markets Observing Hike in Sales Demand for cardiac reader system in developed regional markets account for over half of the global demand, according to the study. Although the demand remains strong in the US, and thereby in North American region, the report envisages stronger growth prospects for the cardiac reader system market in Europe. Moreover, FMI's study points to visibly growing potential of developing regions, for the expansion of cardiac reader system market. Following Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), market in Latin America and Middle East and Africa (MEA) is also reflecting signs of healthy growth in forthcoming years. Our advisory services are aimed at helping you with specific, customized insights that are relevant to your specific challenges. Let us know about your challenges and our trusted advisors will connect with you: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ask-the-analyst/rep-gb-8681 Collaborations Trending in the Competitive Landscape Some of the key vendors actively operating in the global cardiac reader system industry, include Radiometer Medical Aps, Creative Diagnostics, Boditech Med Inc., Mitsubishi Chemical Europe GmbH, and Quidel Corporation. According to FMI's analysis, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Beckman Coulter Inc., Siemens AG., and Abbott Laboratories are among the Tier 1 manufacturers of cardiac reader systems and account for a substantial revenue share in the global market. Key manufacturers of cardiac reader systems are focusing on collaborations with universities and associations to develop their product portfolio. In March 2017, Abbott Laboratories had announced the collaboration with the Hennepin County Medical Center and the University of Minnesota, over the development of markers to be used in the guiding treatment. Browse More Testing Equipment Market Insights Popular Research Reports by FMI: Instrument Calibrator Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/instrument-calibrator-market Elemental Analyzer Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/elemental-analyzers-market XRF Analyzer Market: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/xrf-analyzer-market About Us Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights and an aerial view of the competitive framework and future market trends. Contact Us: MR. Abhishek Budholiya 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989, United States T: +1-347-918-3531 F: +1-845-579-5705 T (UK): + 44(0)20-7692-8790 Sales: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Press Office: Press@futuremarketinsights.com FMI Blog: https://www.fmiblog.com/ Website: www.futuremarketinsights.com Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/677274/Future_Market_Insights_Logo.jpg Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - Valterra Resource Corporation (TSXV: VQA) (OTCQB: VRSCF) ("Valterra" or the "Company") reported today that Ginguro Gold Pty Ltd ("Ginguro") has signed a Letter of Intent with Valterra to acquire an 80% interest in the Weepah Property, located in Walker Lane Gold Belt, Esmeralda County, Nevada. Ginguro may acquire an 80% undivided interest in the Property free and clear of any encumbrances (subject to the Underlying Agreement with Nevada Select Royalty, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ely Gold Royalties Inc., and the net smelter return royalties thereunder) by paying Valterra $10,000 upon execution of the Letter of Intent and incurring $1,050,000 in cumulative aggregate exploration expenditures on or in respect of the Property ("Expenditures") over three years as follows: US$400,000 on or before July 1, 2020 US$650,000 on or before July 1, 2021 US$1,050,000 on or before July 1, 2022 All payments made by Ginguro pursuant to the Underlying Agreement shall form part of the Expenditures. The Letter of Intent contemplates the execution of a formal Definitive Agreement within three months. As well, upon Ginguro's delivery of notice of exercise of the option, the parties will negotiate in good faith for a period of 90 days to structure a transaction for Ginguro's purchase from Valterra of its remaining 20% of the Property. In the event that no definitive agreement is settled and executed within such period, the parties will form a joint venture with initial ownership interests in the Property as to 80% to Ginguro and 20% to Valterra. About Ginguro Gold Pty Ltd. Ginguro is a mineral exploration company focused on identifying and exploring epithermal vein projects with high-grade gold and silver potential. The founders have extensive experience exploring for epithermal gold throughout the Ring of Fire, an area defined by tectonic activity along the margin of the Pacific Plate. The Company's initial focus will be on identifying and exploring projects in Nevada. Ginguro has chosen to focus on highly fertile gold provinces within proven first world jurisdictions that offer a combination of security and upside. Upside is in the form of overlooked prospectivity in the case of Nevada, which remains one of the world's most well-endowed centers for gold mineralization where major global gold producers focus on Carlin-style sediment hosted gold deposits. About Valterra Resource Corporation Valterra is a Manex Resource Group Company. The group provides expertise in exploration, administration, and corporate development services for Valterra's mineral properties located in British Columbia, Nevada and Mexico. Valterra is focused on early stage properties with the potential to host large deposits in regions with excellent infrastructure. Valterra owns a 100% interest in the Swift-Katie copper gold porphyry property in British Columbia, Canada which is permitted for a drill exploration program to take place in Q3, 2019. The Weepah property in Nevada, USA, with past production totaling approximately 117,000ozs(1) gold and significant exploration potential for a high-grade bulk-mineable gold discovery, is fully permitted and bonded for a 19 hole drill program scheduled for 2019. Valterra also has a 100% interest in the Los Reyes copper- gold property in Chihuahua, Mexico. (1) (Historic production figures are from several published and unpublished company reports; however, a qualified person has not done sufficient work to verify these grades and tonnages, and Valterra cautions that these historic production figures should not be relied upon). -30- On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Lawrence Page" Lawrence Page Q.C., President, Valterra Resource Corporation For further information, please visit Valterra's website at valterraresource.com or contact Valterra at 604.641.2759 or by email at ir@mnxltd.com. 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. This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. These statements are based on a number of assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions regarding general economic conditions, interest rates, commodity markets, regulatory and governmental approvals for Valterra Resource Corporation's projects, and the availability of financing for Valterra Resource Corporation's development projects on reasonable terms. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, the timing and receipt of government and regulatory approvals, and continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. Valterra Resource Corporation does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44611 Obagi's SKINCLUSION Initiative Supports the International Cultural Diversity Organization and Project Implicit, Highlights Need to Appreciate Cultural Diversity and Recognize Unconscious Bias LONG BEACH, California, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Obagi, a leader in the physician-dispensed skin care market and the first to include all skin tones in its clinical research protocols, today announced the launch of its SKINCLUSION initiative, which is designed to elevate the global dialogue about diversity and how we can all make conscious choices to see the beauty in all of our differences. The initiative features SKINCLUSION ambassador, actor, producer and activist Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who has been dedicated to fighting for inclusion and diversity over the course of her 20-year career. Experience the interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8538851-obagi-priyanka-chopra-jonas-launch-global-skinclusion-initiative/ "The ObagiSKINCLUSION initiative is very close to my heart because it aligns with my values and personal experience," said Priyanka, who has been recognized by Forbes over the last two years as one of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women. "The initiative supports the idea that we should be more conscious about everything we do, including how we address the automatic assumptions we make about others based on their skin tone. We all have unconscious bias, and it's up to all of us to recognize it and be the change we want to see in the world." Obagi developed this important and timely initiative to focus on the need for people around the world to be fully inclusive and to recognize our own unconscious biases, specifically surrounding skin tone. Unconscious biases are attitudes and stereotypes that are largely unintentional, automatic and outside of our awareness. Unconscious biases can cause "blind spots" that prevent us from seeing the beautiful humanity we all share. Recognizing our own bias may allow us to challenge it, overcome it and ultimately, create a world where diversity is celebrated. "Obagi's SKINCLUSION initiative represents our commitment as leaders in the skin care space to elevate the global dialogue about diversity and inclusion, and spark actions that are more inclusive and reflective of all of our beautiful differences," said Jaime Castle, Obagi President and member of the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, the largest CEO-driven business commitment to advance diversity and inclusion within the workplace. "We're proud of Obagi's 30-year legacy of providing effective, science-based skin care products for all skin tones and that we were the first professional skin care company to specifically design clinical research protocols to include all six Fitzpatrick skin types. We're also so proud to partner with Priyanka, who has brought an amazing level of passion and integrity to this initiative, and to support the significant work being done by the International Cultural Diversity Organization and Project Implicit." OBAGI SKINCLUSION INITIATIVE CALL TO ACTION As part of the SKINCLUSION initiative, Obagi is supporting groups who work to expand diversity and inclusion efforts around the world, including the significant work being done by the International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO) and Project Implicit. The SKINCLUSION initiative encourages people to: Visit SKINCLUSION.com to view resources from the ICDO and Project Implicit, and take the Skin Tone Implicit Association Test Join the global dialogue celebrating diversity and inclusion by using #SKINCLUSION on your social channels and share why diversity and inclusion are important to you Watch, like and share Priyanka's SKINCLUSION video to keep spreading the word Follow Obagi social media channels to participate in social challenges led by Priyanka and Obagi throughout the year, including a chance to meet Priyanka at a special SKINCLUSION event For every social action taken using SKINCLUSION, Obagi will donate $1 to support the ICDO and Project Implicit, with a total donation of $150,000. OBAGI RAISES THE BAR, FOCUSES CLINICAL RESEARCH ON ALL FITZPATRICK SKIN TYPES Obagi has pioneered many skin care advances, including being the first medical skin care brand to design its clinical research protocols to cover all six skin types across the Fitzpatrick skin spectrum. The Fitzpatrick skin spectrum is a scientific classification that identifies six different skin types according to the amount of pigment in the skin and the skin's reaction to sun or ultraviolet light (UV) exposure. Obagi believes that protecting and nourishing skin depends on developing a skin care regimen with a provider, and choosing products that are highly effective, clinically proven and right for an individual's specific skin type, age and skin care needs. "I am delighted to see that Obagi is putting its commitment to diversity and inclusion front and center," said leading dermatologist Jeanine B. Downie, MD, FAAD, and director of Image Dermatology P.C. in Montclair, New Jersey. "The reality is that not all skin tones are the same when it comes to determining what kinds of products and treatments are effective. The fact that the team at Obagi has ensured their clinical trials are designed to include skin types across the entire Fitzpatrick skin spectrum is significant and should be the way forward for the entire skin care industry." ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL DIVERSITY ORGANIZATION (ICDO) ICDO is a Vienna-based global nonprofit dedicated to promoting peace, humanity, diversity and interculturality. Its mission is to raise awareness of contemporary societal issues and of the positive influence of cultural diversity. ICDO challenges cultural misperceptions to ensure equal participation of every individual or group within society. By bringing attention to different cultural expressions and their values, ICDO encourages cultural interaction and connects people by closing cultural gaps. To fulfill its mission, ICDO organizes international events, workshops, research, and social, cultural and development projects. It gathers academic, professional, local and international voices in a mutual dialogue to safeguard diversity and to enhance society through action. "The ICDO is delighted and grateful to be part of the Obagi SKINCLUSION initiative," said Josipa Palac, ICDO's President and CEO. "Obagi's commitment to diversity and inclusion aligns with our mission to promote the idea that diversity makes society stronger in every aspect. Through everyone's participation in the initiative and Obagi's generous support, ICDO will continue to host new and innovative programs around the world that celebrate our multicultural differences and promote a true understanding of humanity." ABOUT PROJECT IMPLICIT Project Implicit is a virtual laboratory and research organization developed by behavioral scientists to provide education about implicit bias through Implicit Association Tests (IATs). The tests focus on 11 different areas, including skin tone, gender, race and sexual orientation; are free to take; and can be completed in under 10 minutes. The IAT is designed to reveal our biases toward various social groups. Individual results are private and become part of ongoing collective research results. Project Implicit is made up of a team of scientists whose research found new ways of understanding attitudes, stereotypes and other hidden biases that influence people's perception, judgement and behavior. Since its founding in 1998, more than 22 million people have taken the IATs and 28 peer-reviewed research articles have been published on their findings, including the January 2019 publication in Psychological Science that highlights strides made in skin tone implicit bias. "We are delighted Obagi is supporting the work we do at Project Implicit," said Elizabeth L. Haines, Ph.D., a research scientist for Project Implicit and a professor and director of the Social Cognition Lab at William Paterson University. "Implicit bias refers to a bias that is mostly unintentional, automatic and outside of our awareness. It's unique to every individual and influenced by our background, cultural environment and personal experiences. Oftentimes, it can be at odds with our own perceptions of ourselves and our conscious values and standards, and it plays a role in our everyday lives - from our interactions at work, to those with friends and acquaintances and even at the doctor's office. Recognizing this bias in ourselves and how it impacts us can be a step to making changes that can make a positive difference." ABOUT OBAGI Obagi is a female-led independent global skin care company dedicated to providing advanced, clinically proven skin care treatments for all skin types. With a 30-year legacy and commitment to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of its business - from its corporate culture to product development - Obagi has pioneered a number of skin care advances, including being the first skin care brand to design its clinical research covering all six skin types across the Fitzpatrick skin spectrum. Through an extensive network of distributors, partners and physician offices around the world, the company provides more than 100 Obagi Medical products to brighten, nourish, protect and enhance skin tone and texture. Obagi also offers dermatologist-tested, technologically advanced formulas through its Obagi Clinical line, which is accessible to consumers exclusively through Sephora. Learn more about Obagi and find a provider near you by visiting www.obagi.com, and connect with Obagi Medical and Obagi Clinical on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. All company names and logos are trademarks of their respective organizations. SKINCLUSION and all other products/brand names, whether designated by notice (/TM) or not, are trademarks of Obagi Cosmeceuticals LLC and/or its affiliates. Obagi Cosmeceuticals LLC. All rights reserved. For more information please contact: Sharon Robustelli VegaRun 347.267.3946 s.robustelli@vegarun.com Laura Morgan VegaRun 951.333.9110 l.morgan@togorun.com Tricentis signs agreement to acquire IntelliCorp LiveCompare: Smart DevOps software for SAP applications MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tricentis, #1 in SAP application testing, today announced the signing of an agreement to acquire IntelliCorp LiveCompare. IntelliCorp's LiveCompare provides a deep analysis of an organization's "as-is" and "to-be" SAP application environments-identifying the differences that impact business processes, system integrations, custom code, security and governance, and end users. LiveCompare is used by 100+ of the world's leading companies to upgrade SAP applications 85% faster and 30X cheaper. "Adopting the latest generation of SAP applications is essential for driving digital transformation initiatives-but it's only the start," explained Tricentis Founder and Chief Product Officer Wolfgang Platz. "Projects like SAP S/4HANA migrations are a critical component of a broader digital transformation. They enable a more rapid and continuous innovation cycle. Yet, to truly take advantage of these new platforms for innovation, enterprises need to eliminate the delays associated with deploying changes or upgrades to SAP applications." IntelliCorp CTO Chris Trueman continued, "Traditionally, SAP customers relied on time-consuming, error-prone manual tasks from development, testing, and operations to update their SAP applications. They were already struggling to keep up when SAP upgrades were an annual occurrence, and now that pace is accelerating dramatically. LiveCompare helps enterprises get their SAP updates up and running as fast as possible-so they can focus on taking advantage of new capabilities. We offer fast, automated insight into exactly what changed and how to accommodate those changes. This helps teams deploy SAP projects 85% faster." Over 100 leading companies worldwide rely on LiveCompare to accelerate SAP application updates while reducing cost and risk. Here is a sampling of customer testimonials): "LiveCompare ensures we're testing the right things and spending resources in the right places. When developing a regression test plan, the data received from LiveCompare allows us to more accurately tailor each plan to an individual release. Instead of testing everything we test only what's impacted. That has translated into a direct resource savings of 30-40%." - Ray Berry, Application Development Lead for the SAP platform at The Coca-Cola Company "Bentley was able to quickly and automatically obtain essential SAP system information to speed up the upgrade project, when it would have taken months of manually scrutinizing the environment to understand its configuration, custom code and data." -Andy Millward, Business Analyst at Bentley "LiveCompare enabled us to drill down and see specific differences in SAP code that would have a significant impact on our environment. An in-depth understanding of our master data and how to manage it let us know what we were dealing with, so we didn't need to test certain things, while we were quick to identify what did need to be reviewed." - Kevin J. Caldecott, Senior Manager of SAP IT at Bentley Motors "The benefits of LiveCompare reach far beyond just support packs. We also use LiveCompare for enhancement packs and version upgrades. LiveCompare has enabled us to adopt a proactive attitude to SAP change. Using LiveCompare, we can be confident that custom change introduced to our production systems will not have any negative impact. - Frank Schmitz, Senior Manager, SAP Infrastructure at Kimberly-Clark Australia "With the help of IntelliCorp's LiveCompare, we were able to estimate the scope of the project more accurately and without taking risks. We decided to do it ourselves with the help of LiveCompare, and we finished it all in two months, needing only five external consultants. With these five consultants we managed to execute the whole project because LiveCompare reduced the effort by telling us exactly where impacts would be. We reduced project consulting costs by 82%." - Ricardo Calderon, Director of SAP at Sky "IntelliCorp's applications are great tools to conduct a fully automated SAP analysis to support technical and functional upgrades, support pack installations and system synchronizations If we didn't have LiveCompare, we'd have to write an ABAP program to try and capture all that it can, and that would take extensive time and dollarsIntelliCorp software is flexible, well designed, and reduces the costs and risks associated with many SAP lifecycle events." - Art Murray, Information Services Quality Assurance Team at The Hershey Company About IntelliCorp IntelliCorp is an international company with primary offices in San Jose, California, and Bristol, United Kingdom. IntelliCorp's smart DevOps software for SAP applications is used by the world's leading companies to help them turn ideas into working software, 30X cheaper, 85% faster and with zero defects. About Tricentis With the industry's #1 Continuous Testing platform, Tricentis is recognized for reinventing software testing for DevOps. Through agile test management and advanced test automation optimized to support 150+ technologies, we provide automated insight into the business risks of your software releases-transforming testing from a roadblock to a catalyst for innovation. The result is accelerated software delivery speed, improved cost efficiency, and reduced business risk. Tricentis is the only vendor to achieve "leader" status in all three top analyst reports (i.e., the "Triple Crown.") This honor is based on our technical leadership, innovation, and a Global 2000 customer base of 1600+ companies, including global enterprises such as Allianz, ANZ Bank, Cisco, Dolby, Experian, First Data, HSBC, Merck, Office Depot, Samsung, Swiss Re, Starbucks, Telstra, UBS, Vodafone, Whole Foods, and WorldPay. Customers rely on Tricentis to achieve and sustain test automation rates of over 90 percent-increasing risk coverage while accelerating testing to keep pace with Agile and DevOps. Tricentis has a global presence in Austria, Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, India, Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland, Poland, United States and the UK. To learn more, visit https://www.tricentis.com or follow us on LinkedIn , Twitter, and Facebook . Media Contact Noel Wurst Tricentis n.wurst@tricentis.com +1 904.673.4427 A well-known market intelligence company, Infiniti Research, has announced the completion of their recent article on achieving successful brand positioning in your market. In this blog, experts at Infiniti Research discuss how companies can create effective brand positioning in the market by following six key steps. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005518/en/ Steps in creating an effective brand positioning strategy (Graphic: Business Wire) A Strong brand sets one company apart from another. Companies use brand positioning strategies to create a brand association in the minds of customers. This makes customers perceive a brand in a particular manner. Effective brand positioning maximizes customer relevancy and competitive distinctiveness while enhancing the brand value in the market. The extent to which a brand is considered as favorable, credible, and unique by customers determines the success or failure of a company's positioning strategy. Need help in creating an ideal brand positioning statement that truly represents everything that your brand stands for? Request a free proposal to know how experts at Infiniti Research can help. Steps in creating an effective brand positioning strategy Determine current brand positioning Start by determining your brand's current positioning. This gives you important insights into where to go next and also provides an opportunity to further analyze the competition. This can be done by segmenting and defining your target customers and understanding what makes your brand different from others in the market. Determine your competition Using competitor analysis analyze your key competitors in the market. This will help you gain a better idea of who you are up against in the market and what their key strategies are. Some of the key methods you can use to determine your competition include market research, customer feedback, and through social media. What sets Infiniti's market intelligence solutions apart from others in the market? Request a free brochure to find out how our expertise in providing actionable insights using advanced business intelligence capabilities can help your business. Identify your unique selling proposition A successful brand positioning is all about communicating to customers about what makes your brand different from the others. As you examine the strengths and weaknesses of the competitors, you may notice that their weakness is your strength. You can use this as a key element in promoting your brand positioning strategy. Create a brand positioning statement A brand positioning statement is a comprehensive declaration that communicates your brand's unique value to your customers. Before drafting a positioning statement, some of the questions that you must answer include who the target customers are, what core benefits are offered by your product, and what categories of products are offered by your company. Test your brand positioning statement Creating a brand positioning statement is only the beginning. The real challenge lies in testing and gathering feedback on whether the positioning strategy is living up to what is expected. Gather feedback from the target customer and identify if there are any improvements that can be made to achieve the desired result. Request for more information and know how we can help you create robust market intelligence strategies that will give you a first-mover advantage in the market. About Infiniti Research Established in 2003, Infiniti Research is a leading market intelligence company providing smart solutions to address your business challenges. Infiniti Research studies markets in more than 100 countries to help analyze competitive activity, see beyond market disruptions, and develop intelligent business strategies. To know more, visit: https://www.infinitiresearch.com/about-us View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005518/en/ Contacts: Infiniti Research Anirban Choudhury Marketing Manager US: +1 844 778 0600 UK: +44 203 893 3400 https://www.infinitiresearch.com/contact-us The "Light Vehicle Leasing Market in France, Forecast to 2022" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Vehicle leasing is seen as a solution to the growing number of challenges faced by companies with regard to their mobility needs. Amongst others, these include challenges associated with vehicle funding, fleet maintenance, and, more importantly, residual risk handling. Businesses in the present market conditions are focused on their core products/services and seek to outsource all other support activities. Mobility is a significant department starting from fleet purchase to remarketing at a competitive price and for each of the segments in the value chain, unless an expert team is on the job, issues such as cost spikes, utilization mismatches, irregularities in fleet maintenance, and risks of dips in residual value can crop up. This study sheds light on the market size across passenger vehicle (PV) and light commercial vehicle (LCV) segments and provides sales/parc data for the total market and fleet and company car (true fleet) segments. The company car segment is discussed in detail, with a focus on the actual development and the growth potential of financial lease, operational lease, and outright purchase. The analysis takes into account historical data and current market conditions and insights and opinions from market participants to provide a five-year outlook on growth opportunities (over the 2017-2022 period). In addition to market data (PV and LCV) for new registrations and portfolio, the study provides actual competitor data (portfolio) for the leading leasing service providers in the country. Competitor data is available for both the leasing segments (operational and financial) for the base year, 2017. The evolution of any industry depends on factors such as transformational trends that are linked to the macroeconomic factors of the region and the emerging business models that reflect innovation in mobility solutions, such as rental, car sharing (peer to peer, corporate, traditional), integrated mobility, and alternative powertrain (petrol, diesel, BEV, PHEV, FCEV, Others ). The study covers these evolutionary trends that are expected to shape the market. For leasing providers and other companies that share the leasing ecosystem, interest lies in the growth opportunities that they need to look at and leverage and the strategic imperatives that aid in their pursuit of growth and success. Overall, the study provides a 360 degree understanding of the leasing space (region-specific) and offers a detailed account on the key trends, market overview, and outlook. Key Topics Covered 1. Executive Summary Key Findings Market Engineering Measurements New Fleet and Company Car Registrations Market Engineering Measurements Fleet and Company Car Parc 2. Research Scope and Definition Research Scope, Objectives and Methodology Research Methodology Definitions Market Structure Fleet Segmentation Car Sharing 3. Total Market for Fleet and Company Cars Total New Fleet and Company Car Registrations Total New Fleet and Company Car Parc 4. Total New Company Car Registrations and Parc Analysis by Funding Type Total New Company Car Registrations Total Company Car Parc 5. Total Company Car Registrations Breakdown Powertrain Segmentation (Petrol, Diesel, Electric, Hybrid, LPG, CNG, Fuel Cell, Other) Sales Channel (Direct Vs. Indirect) Vehicle Brand Class (Premium Vs. Non Premium) 6. Competitor Market Shares Operational Leasing Financial Leasing 7. Analysis of Total Private Leasing Segment (New Registrations and Parc) Total Private Leasing New Registrations Total Private Leasing Parc 8. Breakdown Analysis of Total Vehicles in Car Sharing Fleet (Parc) Car Sharing By Funding type Car Sharing By Solution type 9. Growth Opportunities and Companies to Action Growth Opportunities Strategic Imperatives 10. Last Word Key Conclusions and Future Outlook 11. Appendix Market Forces: Drivers and Restraints For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/s58yi2 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005543/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com 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 Related Topics: Commercial Vehicles, Automotive Leasing and Rental Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - Global UAV Technologies Ltd. (CSE: UAV) (OTC: YRLLF) (FSE: YAB2) (the "Company" or "Global UAV"), a diversified and vertically integrated drone technology company has been invited by Huawei Technologies Canada Co., Ltd. to display our Procyon 800E helicopter UAV at Huawei Canada's Digital Transformation Forum held at Huawei Canada's headquarters in Markham, Ontario. As one of the Huawei ecosystem industry participants in attendance, Global UAV will display and present our 4G connected drone technology to the media, academics, and Canadian telecom carriers and vertical industry members attending the conference. Global UAV has previously collaborated with Huawei Canada and national Canadian telecom carriers by providing the Procyon 800E UAV platform and flight services for proof of concept projects using 4G connected drones and sensors. Invited guests of Huawei will have the opportunity to view the Procyon 800E at Huawei Canada's Customer Solution Innovation and Integration Experience Centre (CSIC) in Markham, Ontario throughout the months of May and June. "Global UAV has worked on several research and development projects over the past two years, and we are pleased to be chosen by Huawei and national Canadian telecom carriers to collaborate on special projects as a drone technology provider. It is exciting to be able to talk about some of our technology development achievements and to work with the world's top industry partners in the space." stated Michael Burns, CEO, Global UAV Technologies Ltd. About Global UAV Technologies Ltd. Global UAV Technologies Ltd. is a diversified, vertically integrated drone technology company within the commercial Unmanned Aerial Vehicle ("UAV") sector. Through its wholly owned subsidiaries - Pioneer Aerial Surveys Ltd., High Eye Aerial Imaging Inc., UAV Regulatory Services Inc., and NOVAerial Robotics Inc.- Global UAV Technologies Ltd. provides a full spectrum of UAV-based services and products including drone research and development and manufacturing, flight services and regulatory compliance. Global UAV Technologies Ltd. will continue its growth through technology development, expanding the business of its current divisions and the continued evaluation of potential acquisitions. Global UAV is well positioned for growth as a vertically integrated drone technology company. On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Michael Burns" Michael Burns CEO & Director For additional information please contact: Global UAV Technologies Ltd. Investor Information Telephone: 1 888-905-7011 Email: ir@globaluavtech.com www.globaluavtech.com We invite all shareholders and stakeholders to join the Global UAV Technologies Ltd. portal on 8020 Connect. Connect here https://www.8020connect.com/groups/global-uav-technologies Neither Canadian Securities Exchange (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. Forward-Looking Statement Statements in this press release, other than purely historical information, including statements relating to the Company's future plans and objectives or expected results, may include forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in public markets, service industries, manufacturing and the UAV Sector. As a result, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44645 SpendEdge, a leading provider of procurement market intelligence solutions, has announced the completion of their latest article on the top trends for the future of manufacturing in the US. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005570/en/ Key trends impacting the future of Manufacturing in the US. (Graphic: Business Wire) To leverage the benefits of the fourth industrial revolution, following the latest manufacturing trends and technologies has become crucial for manufacturing companies operating in the US. To stay a step ahead of their counterparts, they need to know how technological innovations and latest industry machinery outfitted with smart sensors can shape the future of manufacturing and help companies to gain a competitive advantage in the competitive manufacturing sector. At SpendEdge, we understand the impact that the industrial revolution can have on the future of manufacturing in the US. And to help companies identify the latest manufacturing trends, we have listed down a few of our findings below. Trends influencing the future of manufacturing in the US Trend 1: IT and OT Converge The convergence of IT and OT has helped companies to gain access to live dashboards and improve visibility across all parts of the organization. Connected systems enable companies to prevent outages by detecting unbalanced load flows. With integrated controls, production and supply management systems can efficiently automate work streams. Want to know how you can implement the latest manufacturing technologies to improve the efficiency of your organization? Request a free demoand see how our solutions can help. Trend 2: Collaborative Robots The utilization of collaborative robots in the manufacturing sector has helped companies to identify flaws in large quantities of items and avoid hazards. It reduces human labor by taking on repetitive and risky tasks and makes factors safer for human counterparts. Artificial intelligence not only ensures labor safety but also possess the potential to create jobs in the market. Trend 3: The Servitization of Manufacturing Increasing competition makes it vital for manufacturing companies to explore service-based models and add new services to their portfolio. This compels them to expand manufacturing as a service and leverage shared network of manufacturing infrastructure to produce goods. To access the complete list of trends impacting the future of manufacturing in the US, get in touch with our analysts here! About SpendEdge: SpendEdge shares your passion for driving sourcing and procurement excellence. We are the preferred procurement market intelligence partner for 120+ Fortune 500 firms and other leading companies across numerous industries. Our strength lies in delivering robust, real-time procurement market intelligence reports and solutions. Request free proposal to know more, https://www.spendedge.com/request-free-proposal View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005570/en/ Contacts: SpendEdge Anirban Choudhury Marketing Manager US: +1 630 984 7340 UK: +44 148 459 9299 https://www.spendedge.com/contact-us 08 May 2019 Charles Taylor plc (the "Company") Result of the Annual General Meeting ("AGM") The Company announces that at the AGM held earlier today all resolutions set out in the notice of AGM were passed on a show of hands. The proxy voting for the resolutions tabled at the Meeting was as follows: Resolutions Votes For % Votes Against % Total Votes % of Issued Share Capital Voted Votes Withheld* 1. To receive the Company's Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2018. 50,662,555 99.96 8,097 0.02 50,670,652 65.10% 0 2. To approve the Directors' Remuneration Report for the year ended 31 December 2018. 39,665,238 78.65 10,751,408 21.33 50,416,646 64.77% 254,006 3. To approve the Directors' Remuneration Policy as set out in the Directors' Remuneration Report. 39,911,556 78.76 10,752,766 21.22 50,664,322 65.09% 6,330 4. To declare a final dividend of 8.08p per ordinary share. 50,670,653 99.98 0 0.00 50,670,653 65.10% 0 5. To re-elect E. Creasy as a director of the Company. 50,660,309 99.96 10,343 0.02 50,670,652 65.10% 0 6. To re-elect D. Ely as a director of the Company. 50,666,789 99.97 3,864 0.01 50,670,653 65.10% 0 7. To re-elect P. Hewitt as a director of the Company. 50,670,264 99.98 389 0.00 50,670,653 65.10% 0 8. To re-elect B. Hurst-Bannister as a director of the Company. 50,642,678 99.96 10,154 0.02 50,652,832 65.08% 17,820 9. To re-elect M. Keogh as a director of the Company. 50,647,611 99.93 23,042 0.05 50,670,653 65.10% 0 10. To re-elect D. Marock as a director of the Company. 50,670,363 99.98 290 0.00 50,670,653 65.10% 0 11. To re-elect G. Rider as a director of the Company. 46,446,519 91.65 4,221,434 8.33 50,667,953 65.10% 2,700 12. To re-elect T. Ozmen as a director of the Company. 50,666,289 99.97 4,364 0.01 50,670,653 65.10% 0 13. To re-appoint PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as Auditor of the Company. 50,542,242 99.77 104,088 0.21 50,646,330 65.07% 24,322 14. To authorise the Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee to fix the Auditor's remuneration. 50,573,128 99.77 97,525 0.19 50,670,653 65.10% 0 15. That, the Company be authorised to make political donations and incur political expenditure, not exceeding 10,000. 44,142,455 87.10 6,526,899 12.88 50,669,354 65.10% 1,299 16. That, the directors be authorised to allot ordinary shares of 1p each in the capital of the Company up to specified amounts. 43,935,058 86.69 6,733,850 13.29 50,668,908 65.10% 1,745 17. That, the directors be authorised to allot ordinary shares of 1p each in the capital of the Company up to specified amounts for cash, free of pre-emption rights.** 46,464,374 91.72 4,182,192 8.26 50,646,566 65.07% 1,745 18. That, in addition to Resolution17 the directors be authorised to allot ordinary shares of 1p each in the capital of the Company up to specified amounts for cash, free of pre-emption rights.** 50,525,500 99.70 143,407 0.28 50,668,907 65.10% 1,745 19. That, the Company be authorised to make purchases of ordinary shares of 1p each in the capital of the Company up to specified amounts.** 50,557,004 99.76 112,233 0.22 50,669,237 65.10% 1,415 20. To authorise the directors to call a General Meeting other than the Annual General Meeting with 14 clear days' notice.** 50,344,482 99.34 325,841 0.64 50,670,323 65.10% 330 21. To approval the revised rules of the Charles Taylor Long Term Incentive Plan in line with the proposed Directors' Remuneration Policy. 46,326,442 91.48 4,296,602 8.49 50,623,044 65.04% 47,608 *A vote withheld is not a vote in law and is not counted towards votes cast "For" or "Against" a resolution. ** Special Resolutions requiring a 75% majority In accordance with Listing Rule 9.2.2E, Resolutions 7, 11 and 12 were approved by: (a) the shareholders of the Company; and (b) the independent shareholders of the Company. The total voting rights of the Company on the day on which shareholders had to be on the register in order to be eligible to vote was 77,834,375. The results will also be made available on the Company's website: http://www.ctplc.com/ In accordance with LR 9.6.2, a document setting out the resolutions passed at the AGM, concerning special business has been submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will shortly be available for inspection at http://www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/NSM Dividends Payment of the final dividend will be made on 24 May 2019 to shareholders who were on the register of members of the Company at the close of business on 26 April 2019. Statement regarding AGM voting results The Remuneration Committee engaged with our top shareholders (representing 73% of issued share capital) during February 2019 and received positive feedback on the proposed Directors Remuneration Policy. Both resolutions were passed with shareholder support of votes cast: 78.6% for the Remuneration Report and 78.7% for the Remuneration Policy. The Board and the Company remain committed to continued engagement with shareholders and proxy advisors. to address concerns pertaining to remuneration matters. A further round of engagement will take place during June and July 2019. For further information please contact: Robert Davison - Group Company Secretary - 0207 680 5666 Chisom Onita - Group Deputy Company Secretary - 02075227437 Charles Taylor plc 8 May 2019 Notes to editors About Charles Taylor www.ctplc.com Charles Taylor plc is a global provider of insurance-related technical services and solutions dedicated to enabling the global insurance market to do its business fundamentally better. We have been providing insurance-related professional services and technological solutions since 1884. Today, we employ over 2,900 staff in more than 100 locations spread across 30 countries in Europe, the Americas, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa. We are distinctive in our market in that our professional services and technological solutions support every stage of the insurance lifecycle and every aspect of the insurance operating model. For the Property & Casualty (P&C) insurance market, we handle all major commercial lines, along with the more technical areas of personal lines; we do so similarly for the life and health insurance markets. The clients we support range from insurers - including corporates, mutuals, captives, MGAs, Lloyd's syndicates and reinsurers - to brokers, distributors and corporate insureds. Our market-leading breadth of services and solutions, world?class technical expertise, extensive global presence and 100% focus on insurance means we can manage and resolve virtually any insurance-related matter, wherever and whenever it occurs. Acquisition will speed Sitecore's growth and augment partner capabilities with additional services, support, and training for Sitecore Experience Commerce and Sitecore Content Hub SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Sitecore, the global leader in digital experience management software, today announced its intention to acquire Hedgehog Development, a customer and partner-focused digital consultancy. The acquisition will accelerate Sitecore's growth and bolster the people, technology, and services resources supporting Sitecore Solution Partners as they continue to solve customers' most critical digital transformation challenges. "Sitecore's success has been built hand-in-hand with our dedicated partners. The addition of Hedgehog strengthens this community and supports Sitecore's revenue growth, as well as the growth of our partners," said Mark Frost, CEO of Sitecore. "With Hedgehog, we add a team that brings an innovative culture and critical front-line implementation expertise that increases our ability to scale in the key areas of services, training, and support. These new resources will improve our ability to help customers accelerate their digital transformation, maximize their Sitecore investments, and realize the full potential of important Sitecore features such as advanced personalization." Hedgehog has a long history of commitment to Sitecore technology, as well as ongoing support of the Sitecore community. The company was the first agency to become an Implementation and Technology partner with Sitecore and, in 2014, was awarded the first lifetime Sitecore Partner Community Contribution Award in recognition of their landmark contribution to organizing and executing the Sitecore Virtual Summit. With an already existing deep expertise in Sitecore technology, Hedgehog will enable Sitecore and its Sitecore Solution Partners to quickly: Increase the scale of Sitecore Professional Services and SBOS: Hedgehog will add significant expertise to immediately broaden the capabilities of Sitecore Professional Services and SBOS as well as augment Sitecore Solution Partners' design, strategy, and implementation services. This will help customers speed deployment time, minimize unnecessary costs, and overcome complexity in their IT environment. Hedgehog will add significant expertise to immediately broaden the capabilities of Sitecore Professional Services and SBOS as well as augment Sitecore Solution Partners' design, strategy, and implementation services. This will help customers speed deployment time, minimize unnecessary costs, and overcome complexity in their IT environment. Expand developer tooling: Hedgehog is the creator of the widely-used Team Development for Sitecore Essential Suite of products, which help reduce deployment time, improve productivity, and ease implementations for Sitecore Solutions. Sitecore intends to incorporate these tools more deeply within its product offerings. In particular, partners and customers will benefit from greater access to TDS Classic, which reduces deployment time and helps ensure alignment to Sitecore best practices, and Avtor, which improves productivity and usability for Sitecore content editors and strategists. Hedgehog is the creator of the widely-used Team Development for Sitecore Essential Suite of products, which help reduce deployment time, improve productivity, and ease implementations for Sitecore Solutions. Sitecore intends to incorporate these tools more deeply within its product offerings. In particular, partners and customers will benefit from greater access to TDS Classic, which reduces deployment time and helps ensure alignment to Sitecore best practices, and Avtor, which improves productivity and usability for Sitecore content editors and strategists. Enhance training capabilities: To rapidly accelerate Sitecore Solution Partners' time-to-proficiency and simplify the path to become Sitecore experts on newer product offerings, Hedgehog's product implementation expertise will supplement Sitecore's education and certification programs to train, mentor, and support partners on products such as Sitecore Experience Commerce and Sitecore Content Hub. To rapidly accelerate Sitecore Solution Partners' time-to-proficiency and simplify the path to become Sitecore experts on newer product offerings, Hedgehog's product implementation expertise will supplement Sitecore's education and certification programs to train, mentor, and support partners on products such as Sitecore Experience Commerce and Sitecore Content Hub. Strengthen partner enablement programs: Hedgehog adds to Sitecore's capacity to enable partners across geographies, particularly in areas including improved documentation and training on best practices. "We are very excited about continuing our journey with a company that appreciates our culture, reflects our values, and shares our vision to help customers transform their businesses so they can meet the digital requirements of today and the future," said Dan Galvez, CEO of Hedgehog. "Moreover, we value the relationships Sitecore has built with its implementation partners and we look forward to the opportunity to extend our support for the Sitecore community. Most of all, we are ready to join Sitecore to help deliver the best possible experience and outcomes for our customers and partners." According to Sitecore Solution Partner EPAM, "With the acquisition of Hedgehog, Sitecore will be better positioned to help EPAM meet our customers' complex demands by unlocking the full potential of Sitecore's platform," said Elaina Shekhter, CMO & head of strategy of EPAM. "We have a truly strategic digital partnership with Sitecore and a shared vision of improving and elevating a full range of digital experiences. We welcome the advisory and deep product capabilities the Hedgehog acquisition will bring to EPAM, our customers, and the entire Sitecore community." Sitecore's acquisition of Hedgehog is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in June of 2019. Financial terms were not disclosed. Upon closing of the transaction, Hedgehog's more than 80 employees will become part of Sitecore, including the Hedgehog leadership team. CG Petsky Prunier, part of the Canaccord Genuity Group, served as the exclusive financial advisor to Hedgehog Development LLC. For more information, visit sitecore.com. About Sitecore Sitecore is the global leader in digital experience management software that combines content management, commerce, and customer insights. The Sitecore Experience Cloud empowers marketers to deliver personalized content in real time and at scale across every channel-before, during, and after a sale. More than 5,200 brands--including American Express, Carnival Cruise Lines, Kimberly-Clark, and L'Oreal--have trusted Sitecore to deliver the personalized interactions that delight audiences, build loyalty, and drive revenue. About Hedgehog Hedgehog is a full-service digital consultancy transforming the way brands interact with their customers by designing and engineering high performance, multi-channel digital marketing solutions positioning clients for growth and success. A multidisciplinary web solutions firm, Hedgehog offers strategy, design, consulting, technology, and managed services. Hedgehog is headquartered in Holbrook, NY with additional offices in Portland, OR, Charlotte, NC, Sofia, Bulgaria, and Amsterdam, Netherlands. The company is consistently recognized for being one of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. To learn more, visit http://www.hhog.com/ Contact Shannon Lyman Sr. Director, Communications at Sitecore shannon.lyman@sitecore.com 2019 Sitecore Corporation A/S . Sitecore, Sitecore Experience Commerce, and Sitecore Content Hub are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Sitecore Corporation A/S in the USA and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/334493/sitecore_logo.jpg SpendEdge, a leading provider of procurement market intelligence solutions, has announced the completion of their cost model analysis engagement for a steel company This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005619/en/ Creating a revenue cost model and increasing exports in the steel market. (Graphic: Business Wire) Project background The company wanted to gauge changing customer preferences in the steel market. The key objectives they aimed to achieve through this engagement are mentioned below. Objective 1: The company wanted to develop strategies that could address the rising carbon prices occurring due to changing regulatory norms. The company wanted to develop strategies that could address the rising carbon prices occurring due to changing regulatory norms. Objective 2: They also wanted to conduct a cost model analysis to identify key drivers of cost. They also wanted to conduct a cost model analysis to identify key drivers of cost. Looking for more information? Request a free demo and see how our solutions can help you devise cost-effective business strategies. "The analysis of the steel market is crucial for companies to develop strategies to boost demand for steel supply. It helps companies to strengthen their position in the steel industry and address changing regulatory policies," says a procurement expert from SpendEdge. Key findings and solutions offered In partnership with SpendEdge, the client a leading steel company - obtained comprehensive insights to analyze the impact of each cost driver on the fluctuating steel prices. The solution offered helped them to: Reduce costs incurred by carbon dioxide emissions and maintain their profit margins. Address demand for rolled products in the steel market by tracking inventory stock in real-time. Identifying policies that can result in additional costs is a must for companies. Request a free proposal to access our portfolio of sourcing and procurement solutions today! Outcome: The solutions offered by the experts at SpendEdge helped the steel company to gain a comprehensive overview of the EU market and determine the demand for cast and metal iron. This enabled them to devise a revenue cost planning model and plan exports despite contracting domestic demand. The solution offered, helped the client to build their presence in the US steel market for seamless tubes. To access the complete case study on how we helped a steel company address regulatory norms and create an effective revenue cost planning model, get in touch with our experts here About SpendEdge: SpendEdge shares your passion for driving sourcing and procurement excellence. We are the preferred procurement market intelligence partner for 120+ Fortune 500 firms and other leading companies across numerous industries. Our strength lies in delivering robust, real-time procurement market intelligence reports and solutions. Request free proposal to know more, https://www.spendedge.com/request-free-proposal View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005619/en/ Contacts: SpendEdge Anirban Choudhury Marketing Manager US: +1 630 984 7340 UK: +44 148 459 9299 https://www.spendedge.com/contact-us TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Rockcliff Metals Corporation ("Rockcliff" or the "Company") (CSE: RCLF) (FRANKFURT: RO0, WKN: A2H60G) is pleased to announce that, further to its press release of February 22, 2019 (the "Transaction Press Release") announcing the reorganization transaction (the "Transaction") involving a financing (the "Greenstone Subscription") led by Greenstone Resources II LP ("Greenstone") and a transfer of significant assets from Norvista Capital Corporation (TSX-V: NVV) ("Norvista"), the Transaction has closed. The Company was listed and posted for trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") effective May 7, 2019 but was immediately halted from trading pending closing of its financings. The common shares of Rockcliff will commence trading on the CSE on May 8, 2019 under the symbol "RCLF" and CUSIP number 77289R209. Change of Directors Effective May 8, 2019, Mark Sawyer, Mike Romaniuk and Petra Decher were appointed directors of the Company to fill the vacancies created by the resignations of Bruce Durham, Ed King, Neil McMillan and William Johnstone as directors of the Company. Ken Lapierre and Don Christie remain directors of the Company. Ken Lapierre remains President and CEO, Aamer Siddiqui remains Interim CFO and William Johnstone remains Corporate Secretary of Rockcliff. For further information relating to the new directors of the Company and the effect of the Transaction on Rockcliff, reference is made to the Listing Statement of the Company, filed on the SEDAR profile for the Company at www.sedar.com and filed on the Company's profile on the CSE (the "Rockcliff Listing Statement"). Ken Lapierre, President & CEO of Rockcliff commented; "This transformational transaction is finally complete and we can now position Rockcliff as a leading base metals developer and explorer in one of the most established mining jurisdictions in the world. Rockcliff is now very well funded as a result of a cornerstone investment from Greenstone and has secured two advanced stage copper assets and a leased processing facility from Norvista. Our 100% owned Tower copper project is anticipated to be fully permitted by Q4 of this year which will allow us to make a construction decision as early as Q1 of 2020. Over the next two years we will implement one of the largest copper-zinc focused exploration programs undertaken anywhere in the world by a junior resource company. It will include almost 100,000 metres of drilling and will provide substantial news flow to the market. This drill program gives us the potential to significantly increase our existing resources as we search for the next big discovery in this world class mining belt. We thank our shareholders for their overwhelming support and patience during this long and detailed process. We look forward to unlocking the full value of our high-grade Manitoba assets and transitioning Rockcliff into the next major base metal producer in the Flin Flon-Snow Lake greenstone belt." The Financings On May 7, 2019, Rockcliff closed the flow-through equity financing of $19,862,600 (the "FT Financing") consisting of 82,760,833 common shares of Rockcliff that qualify as flow-through shares (the "FT Shares") for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act") priced at $0.24 per FT Share. The Greenstone Subscription Receipts (referred to in the April 1, 2019 press release) were converted into 49,819,167 common shares and the sum of $7,472,875 was released from escrow to Rockcliff. The AF Subscription Receipts (defined below) were converted into 2,402,665 common shares and the sum of $360,400 was released from escrow to Rockcliff. In addition, the FT Subscription Receipts (defined below) were converted into 5,000,000 common shares of Rockcliff the qualify as flow-through shares for purposes of the Tax Act and the sum of $1,000,000 was released from escrow to Rockcliff. Rockcliff raised an aggregate of $20,862,600 in flow-through funding and $7,833,275 in hard dollar funding for a total of $28,695,875. On May 2, 2019, Rockcliff closed the Additional Financing (referred to in the March 27, 2019 press release) with the placement of 2,402,665 subscription receipts (the "AF Subscription Receipts") priced at $0.15 per AF Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $360,400 and the placement of 5,000,000 flow-through subscription receipts (the "FT Share Subscription Receipts") that qualify as flow-through shares for the purpose of the Tax Act priced at $0.20 per FT Share Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $1,000,000 for total gross proceeds of $1,360,400 (the "Subscription Receipts Financing"). The funds received from the Subscription Receipts Financing were held in escrow until all conditions to the release of the funds were satisfied on May 8, 2019. Eligible finders will be paid cash fees of $81,795 and were issued 350,000 FT Broker Warrants and 78,633 AF Broker Warrants. Each FT Broker Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one (1) common share at a price of $0.20 until May 2, 2021 and each AF Broker Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one (1) common share at a price of $0.15 until May 2, 2021. The Asset Acquisition On May 3, 2019, Rockcliff closed the Asset Acquisition (as referred to in the Transaction Press Release) and acquired i) 100% of Norvista's interest in an option agreement with Hudbay Minerals Inc. (the "Talbot Option Agreement") granting Rockcliff an option to earn a minimum 51% interest in the Talbot Property in central Manitoba (the "Talbot Property"); and ii) 100% of Norvista's interest in a lease agreement with CaNickel Mining Limited providing for a lease of the mill and auxiliary facilities at the Bucko Lake Mine near Wabowden, in central Manitoba (the "Bucko Mill Lease"), in consideration for the issuance of 66,290,000 common shares of Rockcliff. In addition, pursuant to the agreement with Akuna Minerals Inc., Rockcliff acquired a 100% interest in certain mining claims located in central Manitoba, known as the Tower Property (the "Tower Property"), which is located approximately 40 kilometres east of the Talbot Property, in consideration for the issuance of 22,096,667 common shares of Rockcliff. For further particulars relating to the Asset Acquisition, reference is made to the Rockcliff Listing Statement. Escrow and Resale Restrictions The 88,386,667 common shares issued for the Asset Acquisition, the 82,760,833 common shares acquired by Greenstone pursuant to the Greenstone Commitment (as defined in the Transaction Press Release) along with the 49,819,167 common shares issued to Greenstone on the conversion of the Greenstone Subscription Receipts are subject to escrow in accordance with the terms of National Policy 46-201 - Escrow for Initial Public Offerings, to be released over a three (3) year period on the basis that Rockcliff is deemed to be an emerging issuer as defined therein. Norvista and its affiliates hold 27.4% of the issued and outstanding capital of Rockcliff following the completion of the Transaction. Current issued and outstanding capital of Rockcliff is 307,355,855 common shares. Securities issued pursuant to the FT Financing are subject to a hold period expiring on September 8, 2019. Securities issued pursuant to the Asset Acquisition are subject to a hold period expiring on September 4, 2019 (and also subject to escrow as referred to above). Securities Issued pursuant to the Subscription Receipts Financing are subject to a hold period expiring on September 3, 2019. Early Warning Report In connection with the Transaction, Greenstone acquired a total of 132,580,000 common shares of Rockcliff (pursuant to the Greenstone Commitment and the conversion of the Greenstone Subscription Receipts), representing approximately 43.1% of the current issued and outstanding common shares of the Company for the aggregate value of US$15 million. Greenstone acquired the common shares of Rockcliff as part of the Transaction and for investment purposes. Depending on market and other conditions, Greenstone may from time to time in the future increase or decrease its ownership, control or direction over Rockcliff securities as circumstances warrant. For the purposes of this notice, the Head Office of Greenstone is East Wing, Trafalgar Court Les Banques, St Peter Port, Guernsey. In satisfaction of the requirements of National Instrument 62-104 - Take-Over Bids And Issuer Bids and National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues, an Early Warning Report in respect of acquisition of common shares of Rockcliff by Greenstone will be filed under the Company's SEDAR Profile at www.sedar.com. About Rockcliff Metals Corporation Rockcliff is a well-funded Canadian resource development and exploration company with approximately $29.0M in its treasury, a fully functional +1000 tpd permitted leased processing and tailings facility as well as several advanced stage high-grade copper and zinc dominant VMS deposits in the Snow Lake area of Manitoba, Canada. The Company is continuing the permitting process for its 100% owned Tower copper project which it expects to be completed by Q4 of this year. Rockcliff is a major junior landholder in the Flin Flon-Snow Lake greenstone belt which is home to the largest Paleoproterozoic VMS district in the world hosting mines and deposits containing copper, zinc, gold and silver. The Company's extensive portfolio of properties totals over 4,200 square kilometres and includes eight of the highest-grade undeveloped VMS deposits and 5 lode-gold properties including the historic Rex-Laguna gold mine, Manitoba's first and highest-grade gold mine. About Greenstone Greenstone is a private equity fund specializing in the mining and metals sector with approximately US$430 million in committed long-term capital. With more than 100 years collective experience, predominantly fulfilling senior roles within mining companies, financial institutions and principal investing, Greenstone understands the sector, its value drivers and inherent risks. As such Greenstone is able to make long term investments which better aligns itself to management decision making. About Norvista Norvista is a resource-based merchant bank with an investment portfolio of four core investments located in Canada, the United States and Mexico. Norvista's investee companies have projects located in excellent mining jurisdictions and are involved in both base and precious metals exploration and development. Norvista holds significant equity ownership positions in its investee companies and is actively involved in the management of these companies through a combination of senior officer positions and/or board representation. The investee company projects represent a balance between later stage exploration and pre-production projects and are self-financing. Norvista maintains and increases its ownership positions in its core holdings through participation in issuer financings as well as share acquisitions in the open market. The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information, please contact: Rockcliff Metals Corporation Ken Lapierre, P. Geo President & CEO Cell: (647) 678-3879 Off: (416) 644-1752 ken@rockcliffmetals.com CHF Capital Markets Cathy Hume, CEO Off: (416) 868-1079 ext. 231 cathy@chfir.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "is expected", "scheduled", "estimates", "pending", "intends", "plans", "forecasts", "targets", or "hopes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "will", "should" "might", "will be taken", or "occur" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the closing of the Transaction, anticipated exploration and development of Rockcliff's Manitoba properties, satisfaction of closing conditions for the Transaction and Additional Financing approval of the TSX-V, approval by the shareholders of Rockcliff and the potential for exploration. SOURCE: Rockcliff Metals Corporation View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544675/Rockcliff-Metals-Closes-Asset-Acquisition-and-Funding-Totaling-287-Million-to-Become-a-Leading-Manitoba-Based-Development-and-Exploration-Company FREMONT, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Durabook Americas Inc., the North American subsidiary of Twinhead International Corporation, today announced that a broad selection of its renowned rugged computers, including the R8300, U11, R11 and S14I, are available via the U.S. Air Force Client Computing Solutions (CCS-2) Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) in the Rugged Systems category for fiscal year 2019a (January 1 - June 30). Availability was secured through Durabook Americas' channel partners Transource Computers (CCS-2 contract FA8055-17-A-1104) and NCS Technologies Inc. (CCS-2 contract FA8055-17-A-1102). "We continue to experience a growing interest in the Durabook brand among Department of Defense and other government customers," said Joe Guest, president, Durabook Americas. "This is a significant milestone for the company and one we could not have achieved without our partnership with Transcource Computers and NCS Technologies. The combination of our globally respected rugged computing solutions, market expertise, integration and customization capabilities, service, approachable price points and channel partners allows us to deliver the best possible solutions available. We're proud to be able to serve our growing government customer base." The Durabook line of rugged notebooks and tablets can be purchased under CCS-2 via the AFWay (Air Force Way) e-commerce portal (https://www.afway.af.mil/). Durabook Americas: DURABOOK R8300, S14I, U11 and R11 Available to Department of Defense Customers via U.S. Air Force CCS-2 BPA Authorized users of the Air Force CCS-2 BPA include, but are not limited to, Department of the Air Force, Department of the Army, Department of the Navy, Defense Health Agency-Air Force (DHAAF), Office of the Secretary of Defense, the White House Communications Agency (WHCA) and the Office of the Secretary of Defense, as well as contractors supporting these agencies who are on contract to fulfill government requirements when authorized under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 51.100 and by the BPA PCO provided there is no conflict with the GSA definition of authorized users. DURABOOK R8300 The DURABOOK R8300 R3 is engineered to operate reliably in the most extreme environments. The device meets military standards (MIL-STD-810G) and has other critical certifications for drop, vibration, ingress, salt fog, hazardous environments, temperature, humidity and altitude. The R8300 R3 features an Intel 7th generation Core processor, an Intel HD 620 Graphics package, Windows 10, up to 21 hours of power, a 13.3" 1050 nit sunlight readable XGA (1024768) TFT LCD touchscreen, quick-release hard drive and a waterproof and backlit keyboard. DURABOOK R11 The R11 tablet features an 8th Generation Intel Core processor, an Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU and Windows 10 Pro, making it a powerful, enterprise-class, rugged mobile computing solution. The device offers up to 16 hours of battery life and features an IP65 rating and MIL-STD-810G certification for drop, shock, vibration, dust, sand, explosive atmosphere, high/low temperature and more, plus ANSI 12.12.01 C1D2 certification. The R11 has an 11.6" FHD (1920 x 1080) sunlight readable LCD. The 10-point capacitive multi-touch panel can be used with a glove, stylus or finger, even if the screen is wet, optimizing the device's usability regardless of work conditions. DURABOOK U11 The fully rugged Durabook U11 tablet features an Intel 7th Generation CPU, Windows 10 Pro, 8-16GB of RAM, 128-512GB quick-release SSD, DOD-level security and a full HD sunlight readable LCD. The device, designed for workers who face the most challenging operating environments, is MIL-STD-810G certified for drop (6'), shock, vibration, rain, dust, sand, humidity, freeze/thaw, high/low temperature (- 4F ~ 140F) and temperature shock. The device meets MIL-STD-461G for electromagnetic interference, ANSI 12.12.01 C1D2 for explosive atmosphere and has an IP65 rating. The U11's 11.6? FHD (1920 x 1080) LCD features a 10-point capacitive multi-touch panel allowing users to keep their gloves on when engaging with the device, its touchscreen operates even when wet and its hot-swappable battery enables workers to operate uninterrupted when charging isn't an option. DURABOOK S14I The Durabook S14I expands the definition of semi-rugged computing to include a category-first 4' drop and IP53 ratings. The device also has an operational range of -4F - 140F allowing for use in a wide range of environments. The S14I features a 14", 1000 Nit, 1920 x 1080, 10-point multi-touch capacitive Full HD IPS DynaVue display with Stealth and Night Vision modes. The device is powered by an 8th Generation Intel Core processor, an Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU (or an optional NVIDIA GeForce GTX1050) and Windows 10 Pro. The S14I also features a waterproof keyboard, fingerprint scanner, a quick-release hard drive allowing sensitive data to be secured in a safe environment and a hot-swappable/bridge battery design, allowing for non-stop work in the field. DURABOOK COMPUTERS Known for reliability, custom configurations and attractive acquisition costs, the Durabook brand has a loyal customer base around the globe. Durabook devices are used by all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, public safety agencies across the country and numerous field service organizations, as well as companies in oil & gas, logistics, healthcare, utilities and automotive markets. SUPPORT To help its customers address the challenges and complexity of deploying and managing their mobility solutions, Durabook Americas offers a wide range of support services. These services include device customization, consulting, disk imaging, deployment assistance, installation, extended and no-fault warranty options, warranty depot repair center with 48-hour turn-around-time, a live U.S.-based call center, device retirement and an online support center for drivers and manuals. WARRANTY The standard Durabook "2-D" warranty protects devices against defects in materials and workmanship. The "3-D" warranty provides the same coverage as the 2D while also adding accidental damage coverage for the fully rugged Durabook U11, R8300 and R11 models at no extra cost. ABOUT TRANSOURCE COMPUTERS Founded in 1984, Transource Computers has steadily grown into a highly visible and competitive master system integrator providing total solution integration with custom server, cluster, workstation, desktop and notebook computer systems. Transource is well versed in government procurement with contracts like the ARMY CHESS, GSA, SEWP and the recently awarded Air Force CCS-2 contract. As a new awardee of the Air Force CCS-2 contract, Transource quickly became CCS-2's largest supplier of computer systems during the 2017B buy period. Through years of effort, Transource has developed highly competitive pricing advantages and preferred product delivery status that serves our diverse customer base. Through an established structure and relationships with many specialized entities, Transource has formed a simplified procurement process - a single resource for products, product maintenance and technical services. As a system builder, Transource is recognized nationwide in system-building circles as a strong leader providing seamless computer systems and technology-purchasing solutions to both regional and national customers. For more information on Transource, visit http://www.transource.com/. ABOUT NCS TECHNOLOGIES Founded in 1996, with headquarters in Gainesville, Virginia, NCS Technologies designs, manufactures, distributes and supports a range of computers for use as military tactical equipment or workstations in secure and compartmentalized operating environments, as well as commercial-off-the-shelf notebooks, desktops, zero clients and custom-built high-performance servers. We also offer what we term "differentiated" products. These are products that we conceived and designed from scratch that are based on the Intel/Microsoft architecture yet are patented due to their unique features available from no other manufacturer. Our strengths include innovation, adaptability, speed, agility and flexibility. Whatever the challenge, we design, manufacture and deliver the exact computing solution required with the highest quality and reliability. For more information about NCS Technologies, visit https://www.ncst.com. ABOUT DURABOOK AMERICAS Durabook Americas Inc. is the North American subsidiary of Twinhead International Corporation, a leading manufacturer and customizer of rugged computing solutions, including the globally acclaimed Durabook brand. Driven to meet customer needs, Durabook devices are designed, manufactured and tested in-house to assure maximum quality and reliability. These cost-effective ruggedized laptops, tablets and all-in-one PCs are high-performance solutions that increase productivity, drive a clear return on investment and deliver a low total cost of ownership for government and enterprise customers in markets like oil & gas, power & utilities, field service, military and public safety. Durabook Americas Inc. is headquartered in Fremont, California, from where they also provide final assembly, inventory, technical support and other services. For more information on Durabook Americas Inc. and the Durabook product line, visit www.DurabookAmericas.com. All products/services and trademarks mentioned in this release are the properties of their respective companies. 2019 Durabook Americas. All rights reserved. Media Contact: PR@DurabookAmericas.com 925.587.6933 SOURCE: Durabook Americas View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/544621/DURABOOK-R8300-S14I-U11-and-R11-Available-to-Department-of-Defense-Customers-via-US-Air-Force-CCS-2-BPA HEERLEN, Netherlands, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal DSM today held its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders at its corporate headquarters in Heerlen (Netherlands). Shareholders approved all resolutions on the agenda. (Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/657851/DSM_Logo.jpg ) The following resolutions were approved at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders: Adoption of the Remuneration Policy for the Managing Board Adoption of the Remuneration of the Supervisory Board Adoption of the Financial Statements for 2018 Adoption of the dividend on ordinary shares for 2018 (see also separate press release) Release from liability of the members of the Managing Board in respect of their managerial activities Release from liability of the members of the Supervisory Board in respect of their supervisory role Reappointment of Pauline van der Meer Mohr as a member of the Supervisory Board as a member of the Supervisory Board Appointment of Erica Mann as a member of the Supervisory Board as a member of the Supervisory Board Reappointment of the external auditor Authorization of the Managing Board to issue up to 10% ordinary shares and to exclude pre-emptive rights Authorization of the Managing Board to issue an additional 10% ordinary shares in connection with a rights issue Authorization of the Managing Board to have the company repurchase shares Reduction of the issued capital by canceling shares DSM - Bright Science. Brighter Living. Royal DSM is a global, purpose-led, science-based company active in Nutrition, Health and Sustainable Living. DSM's purpose is to create brighter lives for all. DSM addresses with its products and solutions some of the world's biggest challenges while simultaneously creating economic, environmental and societal value for all its stakeholders - customers, employees, shareholders, and society at large. DSM delivers innovative solutions for human nutrition, animal nutrition, personal care and aroma, medical devices, green products and applications, and new mobility and connectivity. DSM and its associated companies deliver annual net sales of about 10 billion with approximately 23,000 employees. The company was founded in 1902 and is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. More information can be found at http://www.dsm.com. Forward-looking statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements with respect to DSM's future (financial) performance and position. Such statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections of DSM and information currently available to the company. DSM cautions readers that such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and therefore it should be understood that many factors can cause actual performance and position to differ materially from these statements. DSM has no obligation to update the statements contained in this press release, unless required by law. The English language version of the press release is leading. PRN NLD Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - May 8, 2019) - Further to its October 31, 2018, news release, Lifestyle Global Brands Limited (TSXV: GBE) ("Lifestyle Global" or the "Company") and CannHeath Group Limited ("CannHealth"), are pleased to announce that they have entered into share purchase agreement dated April 18, 2019 (the "Share Purchase Agreement") pursuant to which Lifestyle Global will acquire all of the issued and outstanding ordinary shares of CannHealth (the "Proposed Transaction"). Upon completion of the Proposed Transaction, the issuer resulting from the Proposed Transaction (the "Resulting Issuer") will carry on the business previously carried on by CannHealth. It is anticipated that upon completion of the Proposed Transaction the Resulting Issuer will delist from the TSX Venture Exchange and will list on the Canadian Securities Exchange. General Information about CannHealth CannHealth is an Australian privately owned specialty beverage company. Immediately prior to closing the Proposed Transaction, CannHealth will have two primary lines of business: (i) formulation, development and production of alcoholic beverages through a wholly-owned subsidiary, Australian Boutique Spirits Pty Ltd. ("ABS"); and (ii) formulation, production and distribution of THC and CBD infused beverages in legal jurisdictions across North America through its wholly-owned subsidiary Health Group LLC. Through ABS, CannHealth manufacture, export and market a variety of Australian-made spirits and beverages made using natural ingredients. ABS's spirits are sold throughout Asia and are beginning to be sold in the United States and Europe. ABS brands include Australian Bitters, Australis Gin, Opal Coffee Liqueurs and Voco Coconut Water and Vodka. ABS has an established manufacturing facility in Sydney, Australia where it manufactures and distributes its branded products for the domestic and export markets. ABS has a number of long term manufacturing and distribution agreements in place. CannHealth has entered into a definitive agreement with ABS pursuant to which CannHealth will purchase all of the issued and outstanding securities of ABS (the "ABS Transaction"). The ABS Transaction is expected to close immediately prior to the closing of the Proposed Transaction. Health Group LLC is a specialty beverage company operating in the United States, which focuses on manufacturing products infused with THC and CBD in jurisdictions where it is legal to do so. Health Group LLC has developed a number of products incorporating either THC or CBD, including THC beer, THC lemonade, CBD vitality shots, THC cold brew coffee and THC bag-in-box cocktails. The company is fitting out a state-of-the-art manufacturing and bottling facility in California and has recently executed a letter of intent, to establish a co-hosted manufacturing facility in Nevada. The Company plans to roll out multiple facilities in additional regulatory approved states in the USA over the coming 12 months. The Proposed Transaction Under the terms of the Share Purchase Agreement Lifestyle Global plans to acquire all outstanding ordinary shares of CannHealth ("CannHealth Shares") in exchange for post-Consolidated ordinary shares of Lifestyle Global ("Lifestyle Global Shares") on the basis of one post-Consolidated Lifestyle Global Share for each CannHealth Share. In connection with the Share Purchase Agreement, Lifestyle Global and CannHealth will enter into option cancellation deeds ("Option Deeds") with the CannHealth optionholder pursuant to which the optionholder will agree to surrender their CannHealth options for cancellation in exchange for Lifestyle Global granting the optionholder an equivalent number of options to purchase post-Consolidation Lifestyle Global Shares on substantially similar terms to the CannHealth options. In connection with the Share Purchase Agreement, Lifestyle Global and CannHealth will also enter into performance rights cancellation deeds ("Rights Deeds") with each CannHealth rightsholder pursuant to which the rightsholder will agree to exercise their vested CannHealth performance rights concurrently with the closing of the Proposed Transaction and to surrender their unvested CannHealth performance rights for cancellation in exchange for Lifestyle Global granting the rightsholder an equivalent number of Lifestyle Global performance rights on substantially similar terms to the CannHealth performance rights. It is estimated that there will be an aggregate of approximately 61,429,250 ordinary shares of the Resulting Issuer ("Resulting Issuer Shares") issued and outstanding immediately following completion of the Proposed Transaction (excluding Resulting Issuer Shares issued in exchange for shares issued under the Private Placement (as defined below) and any Resulting Issuer Shares that may be issuable in connection with the conversion of the Company's outstanding debentures) resulting in: holders of CannHealth Shares holding approximately 59,274,662 (96.49%) Resulting Issuer Shares; and (ii) holders of Lifestyle Global securities holding approximately 2,154,589 (3.51%) Resulting Issuer Shares. Private Placement In conjunction with the Proposed Transaction, Lifestyle Global and CannHealth are planning to complete a concurrent private placement financing for estimated gross proceeds of a minimum of CAD$10,000,000 up to a maximum of CAD$20,000,000 (the "Private Placement"). Details on the Private Placement, including the amount of proceeds to be raised, the type and number of securities offered for issuance and the agent or agents engaged to broker the Private Placement, if any, will be provided in due course once available by way of news release. Management Team, Board of Directors and Other Insiders Upon completion of the Proposed Transaction, it is anticipated that certain directors and officers of Lifestyle Global will resign and be replaced by nominees of CannHealth. Details regarding the anticipated directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer are set forth below. Daniel Lanskey - Non-Executive Chairman, Director Mr. Lanskey has over 15 years' experience in senior management in the oil and gas, cannabis and base metals industries in North America and Australia. Mr. Lanskey is the former Chairman of Needle Capital Corp which was recently acquired by The Flowr Corporation, a cannabis company listed on the TSXV. He was the founder and Managing Director of Austex Oil Limited which grew from startup to $30m in annual revenue.Mr. Lanskey is currently a Director of Timeless Capital Corporation (TSXV) and Tillegrah Limited (ASX). Andrew Sparke - Non-Executive Director Mr. Sparke is a capital raising and corporate advisory professional with over 15 years' experience. He has a wealth of capital markets experience and is the director of a number of public and private companies including Olive Capital Pty Ltd. His capital markets experience includes IPO's, private placements, secondary market transactions and listed company compliance and he has advised ASX listed companies on capital raising and corporate transactions. Mr. Sparke holds a Bachelor of Business (Marketing), a Masters (Finance) and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (MAICD). Vick Dusik - Director Mr. Dusik is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Chartered Business Valuator who has held senior positions with Ernst & Young. Mr. Dusik has been a director and Chief Financial Officer of several listed companies in the energy and resources sector. He holds a MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business, Western University and an ICD.D from the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto. Amit Raj Beri - Chief Executive Officer and Director Mr. Beri is the founder and Managing Director of CannHealth, ABS, Europa Group, and Elegance Spirits. He brings many years of experience in the beverage industry in sales, marketing, new distribution, and a history of introducing new products into global markets. Mr. Beri has launched a number of brands by undertaking key R&D. Michael Kahn - Chief Financial Officer Mr. Kahn has over 15 years in the financial services industry including experience in corporate finance, mergers and acquisition advisory, and merchant banking. Mr. Kahn was a Vice President, Investment Banking Division at Morgan Stanley Canada, a Vice President and Director, Investment Banking at TD Securities Inc., and a Vice President at Kensington Capital Partners Limited. He is the former Chief Financial Officer of eQube Gaming Limited a Canadian publicly-listed electronic gaming provider. He has served on the board of directors of several publicly listed companies, including Quartet Resources Ltd., a predecessor company to Lifestyle Global Brands as well as Colson Capital Corp. (TSXV). Mr. Kahn is currently a Director and Chief Financial Officer of Lifestyle Global Brands. Selected Pro Forma Consolidated Financial Information of CannHealth The following selected pro forma consolidated financial information of CannHealth has been supplied to Lifestyle Global by CannHealth for inclusion herein and assumes completion of the ABS Transaction. Year Ended December 31, 2018 ($CAD) Total Assets $38,191,591 Total Long-Term Liabilities $7,478,702 Revenues $1,644,706 General and Administrative Expenses $1,548,435 Net Profit $115,171 Trading Halt The Lifestyle Global Shares are currently halted from trading and are not expected to resume trading until completion of the Proposed Transaction. Conditions to Completion of the Proposed Transaction and Regulatory Matters Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions including, but not limited to, completion of the previously announced spin out of the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary Goldbelt International Limited (the "Spin-out"); further details regarding the Spin-out can be found in the Company's June 13, 2018 news release, a copy of which is available under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. Completion of the Proposed Transaction is also subject to completion of the ABS Acquisition, the completion of a concurrent financing for gross proceeds of a minimum of CAD$5,000,000, the entering into of the Option Deeds and Performance Rights Deeds with the CannHealth optionholders and rightsholders (as applicable), Lifestyle Global completing a share consolidation on the basis of one post-consolidation Lifestyle Global Share for every 18 pre-consolidation Lifestyle Global Shares, or on such other basis as may be determined by the Company and CannHealth (the "Consolidation"), closing conditions customary to transactions of the nature of the Proposed Transaction and receipt of all necessary approvals from regulatory bodies and exchanges having jurisdiction in connection with the Proposed Transaction. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the Listing Statement to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of Lifestyle Global should be considered highly speculative. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Canadian Securities Exchange have passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and have not approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Additional Information For further information please contact: Lifestyle Global Brands Limited Michael Kahn, Director and CFO Telephone: 406-560-3193 CannHealth Group Limited Daniel Lanskey, Chairman Telephone: +61 451 558018 Cautionary Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes", an or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would" , "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, to: the terms and conditions of the Proposed Transaction, the Private Placement, the Consolidation and the terms and completion thereof; the Spin-out and the completion thereof; the ABS Acquisition and the completion thereof; the entering into of the Option Deeds and Rights Deeds, the business and operations of CannHealth and the Resulting Issuer; go-forward management of the Resulting Issuer; and the trading and listing of the Resulting Issuer Share as the case may be. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; and the delay or failure to receive board, shareholder, court or regulatory approvals. 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 the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, Lifestyle Global and CannHealth assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange, Inc. nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the polices of the TSX Venture Exchange) has in any way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and associated transactions and neither of the foregoing entities accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release or has in any way approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release. The Lifestyle Global Shares have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirement. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/44649 Regulatory News: Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. (LN:PSH) (LN:PSHD) (NA:PSH) today released its regular weekly Net Asset Value ("NAV") and performance returns on its website, https://www.pershingsquareholdings.com/company-reports/weekly-navs/. The NAV and returns were computed as of the close of business on Tuesday, 7 May 2019. PSH NAV per share as of close of business on 7 May 2019 was 23.81 USD 18.22 GBP and year-to-date performance was 38.2%. Weekly net asset value ("NAV") is calculated as of the close of business on each Tuesday and posted on the following business day. In the event that Tuesday is not a business day, the Company will calculate the close-of-business NAV as of the business day immediately preceding that Tuesday. The end-of-month NAV is calculated as of the close of business on the last day of the month and posted on the following business day. For weeks that include a month-end NAV report, PSH will provide only the month-end NAV and not report the Tuesday NAV. Monthly NAVs are published in accordance with the Decree on Conduct of Business Supervision of Financial Undertakings under the Wft (Besluit Gedragstoezicht financiele ondernemingen Wft). Performance is presented on a net-of-fees basis and reflects the deduction of, among other expenses: management fees, brokerage commissions, administrative fees and accrued performance fees, if any. The performance figure includes the reinvestment of all dividends, interest and capital gains. Depending on the timing of a specific investment, net performance for an individual investor may vary from the net performance as stated herein. Net performance is a geometrically linked time weighted calculation. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. All investments involve risk including the loss of principal. About Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. (LN:PSH) (LN:PSHD) (NA:PSH) is an investment holding company structured as a closed-ended fund that makes concentrated investments principally in North American companies. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190508005919/en/ Contacts: Camarco Ed Gascoigne-Pees Hazel Stevenson +44 020 3757 4989 media-pershingsquareholdings@camarco.co.uk The 15th Finance Commission on Wednesday deliberated on the need to set up such panels in states during its meeting with RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das and other senior functionaries of the central bank New Delhi: The 15th Finance Commission on Wednesday deliberated on the need to set up such panels in states during its meeting with RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das and other senior functionaries of the central bank. The other issues which came up for discussion during the meeting in Mumbai include public sector borrowing requirements and continuity of the Finance Commission and development of expenditure codes, especially given that expenditure norms vary from state to state. On the continuity of the Finance Commission, an official statement said in the meeting it was "felt that this was required more in view of the fiscal management requirements of the states, especially given the absence of mid-term reviews of awards granted by the Finance Commission, as it used to happen earlier with the awards granted by the Planning Commission". The RBI made presentations to the Finance Commission on State Government Finances for 2019-20 and also on the issues and challenges of the market borrowings of state governments. The main issues raised by the RBI included increasing orientation of state governments borrowing to markets, and improving secondary market liquidity. During its two-day visit to Mumbai, the 15th Finance Commission, chaired by N K Singh, is slated to have meetings with banks, financial institutions and economists as well. A high-level panel looking into appropriate capital reserves the RBI should maintain will hold at least two more meetings before finalising the report, former Reserve Bank governor Bimal Jalan, who is heading the committee, said New Delhi: A high-level panel looking into appropriate capital reserves the RBI should maintain will hold at least two more meetings before finalising the report, former Reserve Bank governor Bimal Jalan, who is heading the committee, said. The six-member Jalan panel was appointed on 26 December, 2018, to review the Economic Capital Framework for the RBI. The committee was supposed to submit its report in 90 days from the first day of its meeting, which held on 8 January. "At the moment, it is in the process ... We will have at least two more meetings," he said when asked whether the committee has finalised its report. The other key members of the committee include Rakesh Mohan, former deputy governor of RBI as vice-chairman, finance secretary Subhash Chandra Garg, RBI deputy governor NS Vishwanathan, and two RBI central board members, Bharat Doshi and Sudhir Mankad. The panel has been entrusted with the task of reviewing the best practices followed by central banks worldwide in making assessment and provisions for risks, which a central bank balance sheets are subject to. The panel will propose a suitable profit distribution policy, taking into account all the likely situations of the RBI, including the situation of holding more provisions than required. The government and the RBI under the previous governor Urjit Patel had been at loggerheads over the Rs 9.6 lakh crore surplus capital with the central bank. The finance ministry was of the view that the buffer of 28 percent of gross assets maintained by the RBI is well above the global norm of around 14 per cent. Following this, the RBI board in its meeting on November 19, 2018, decided to constitute a panel to examine Economic Capital Framework. In the past, the issue of the ideal size of reserves of the Reserve Bank of India was examined by three committees -- V Subrahmanyam in 1997, Usha Thorat in 2004 and YH Malegam as late as in 2013. While the Subrahmanyam panel recommended for building a 12 percent contingency reserve, the Thorat panel suggested it should be maintained at a higher 18 percent of the total assets of the central bank. The RBI board did not accept the recommendation of the Thorat committee and decided to continue with the recommendation of the Subrahmanyam committee. The Malegam panel said the RBI should transfer an adequate amount of its profit to the contingency reserves annually but did not ascribe any particular number. Chinas crude oil imports in April hit a record for the month, at 10.64 million barrels per day (bpd), customs data showed on Wednesday. The country is the worlds biggest oil importer. London: Brent oil dropped below $70 a barrel on Wednesday, hurt by concerns about a deepening US-Chinese trade row, although persistent supply worries prevented a steeper price fall. US sanctions on crude exporters Iran and Venezuela, as well as supply cuts by Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Russia and their allies, have supported prices in recent weeks, tightening the supply outlook. Benchmark Brent was down 18 cents or 0.3 percent at $69.70 per barrel. US crude dipped 15 cents or 0.2 percent to $61.25 per barrel. Oil prices had rallied about 40 percent since the beginning of the year but the move higher has for now been put on the back burner, said Stephen Brennock, analyst at London-based oil brokerage PVM. Prices fell this week after Washington said it would further raise tariffs on Chinese goods on Friday as trade talks between the worlds top two economies faltered. The row over trade has cast a shadow over the global economy. The focus now will be on the two days of talks in Washington scheduled to take place between US and Chinese officials, said Jasper Lawler, head of research at futures brokerage London Capital Group. Chinas crude imports in April hit a record for the month, at 10.64 million barrels per day (bpd), customs data showed on Wednesday. The country is the worlds biggest oil importer. It is questionable whether China will maintain this import pace, Commerzbank analysts said in a note. Part of the oil is also likely to have gone into building up stocks before the tougher US sanctions came into force against Iran. Before that, prices rallied as Washington tightened US sanctions on Iran with the aim of reducing its oil exports to zero. Most analysts expect Irans exports to fall to a little more than 500,000 bpd from about 1 million bpd in April. Iran, which has said it would continue oil exports despite sanctions, announced it would scale back curbs on its nuclear programme under a 2015 deal with world powers. Washington withdrew from the nuclear pact last year. Restrictions on Iran, as well as on Venezuela, come amid already tight supply as the OPEC has been withholding output this year. Azerbaijans oil minister said it had received assurances from Saudi Arabia, OPECs biggest producer and de facto leader, that Riyadh would not take any unilateral decisions on the global oil deal until OPECs June meeting. By Arjun Panchadar (Reuters) - Electronic Arts Inc posted better-than-expected quarterly revenue on Tuesday, riding on the popularity of its battle royale game, 'Apex Legends', sending its shares up 7 percent in extended trading. EA launched 'Apex Legends' and 'Firestorm', a battle royale version of its 'Battlefield V' game, in the latest quarter to cash in on the success of the battle royale genre made popular by 'PUBG' and Epic Games' 'Fortnite' By Arjun Panchadar (Reuters) - Electronic Arts Inc posted better-than-expected quarterly revenue on Tuesday, riding on the popularity of its battle royale game, "Apex Legends", sending its shares up 7 percent in extended trading. EA launched "Apex Legends" and "Firestorm", a battle royale version of its "Battlefield V" game, in the latest quarter to cash in on the success of the battle royale genre made popular by "PUBG" and Epic Games' "Fortnite". EA's battle royale game had attracted 50 million players just a month after its launch in February and the company said that millions more had signed up since then, suggesting that it could withstand competition from "Fortnite". "It has also helped us cut into new player audiences as nearly 30 (percent) of Apex Legends players are new to EA," Chief Executive Officer Andrew Wilson said on a post-earnings call. In battle royale games, players are given the task to survive and outlast everyone by eliminating opponents. EA forecast net bookings from Apex Legends in the range of $300 million to $400 million in fiscal year 2020, adding that the forecast did not assume any contribution this year from future mobile versions or games in the Chinese market. The company said it was in advanced talks to bring its hit game to China and launch a mobile version. However, Chief Financial Officer Blake Jorgenson told Reuters the launch of EA's online action video game, "Anthem", in February underperformed the company's expectations. The company expects its new "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" title, which will release in November, to sell 6 million to 8 million units in fiscal 2020. On an adjusted basis, EA's fourth-quarter revenue was $1.36 billion, beating analysts' average estimates of $1.20 billion, according to IBES data from Refinitiv. However, EA forecast first-quarter adjusted revenue of $690 million, well below analysts' estimates of $807.8 million. Its full-year adjusted revenue forecast of $5.10 billion was also below estimates of $5.16 billion. Earlier on Tuesday, EA also said it expanded its EA Access subscription service to Sony's PlayStation 4, starting July. The service, which has been available on Microsoft's Xbox and PC via Origin since 2014, is priced at $4.99 per month and $29.99 per year. (Reporting by Arjun Panchadar in Bengaluru; Editing by Anil D'Silva) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. By David Shepardson and Diane Bartz WASHINGTON (Reuters) - With a multibillion-dollar settlement looming for Facebook over user privacy violations, Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg was meeting with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill on Tuesday to discuss legislation to protect users of the social network, officials said. The meetings had been long planned and were not to discuss reports that Facebook will soon settle a probe by the Federal Trade Commission into privacy lapses, according to a Facebook spokeswoman By David Shepardson and Diane Bartz WASHINGTON (Reuters) - With a multibillion-dollar settlement looming for Facebook over user privacy violations, Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg was meeting with U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill on Tuesday to discuss legislation to protect users of the social network, officials said. The meetings had been long planned and were not to discuss reports that Facebook will soon settle a probe by the Federal Trade Commission into privacy lapses, according to a Facebook spokeswoman. Sandberg met with Senate Commerce Committee chairman Roger Wicker, a Republican, and Democratic Senator Mark Warner and was expected to meet with Senator Jerry Moran later on Tuesday, representatives for the senators confirmed. Moran and Wicker are among the six senators on a working group to draft a bill aimed at setting standards for online privacy for consumers. Sandberg met Monday with Senator Dianne Feinstein, according to a staffer in the senator's office. The Federal Trade Commission's investigation is into allegations that Facebook failed to live up to a 2011 consent decree to protect users' privacy. It is accused of inappropriately sharing information belonging to 87 million users with the now-defunct British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica. Facebook said last month the settlement could cost between $3 billion and $5 billion. Several published reports say a settlement would require the company to create an independent privacy oversight committee and take other steps to safeguard users. The steps would include appointing a federally approved privacy official at the highest level of Facebook and creating a privacy oversight committee that may include Facebook board members, Politico reported last week. (Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Steve Orlofsky, Dan Grebler and David Gregorio) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. The board of IL&FS group, which is estimated to have a debt burden of over Rs 94,000 cr, was superseded by corporate affairs ministry in October last year New Delhi: Loan exposure worth Rs 12,000 crore of almost 55 green companies of crisis-hit IL&FS group is likely to be settled by July end, a senior government official said as he asserted that the resolution process is on track. Besides, many of the green companies have positive equity which means that after settling debt obligations, shareholders would "get something in return for their equity stake", Corporate Affairs Secretary Injeti Srinivas said. The board of diversified IL&FS group, which is estimated to have a debt burden of over Rs 94,000 crore, was superseded by the corporate affairs ministry in October last year. Since then, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT)-appointed board is managing the affairs to ensure orderly settlement. As part of the resolution efforts, the group companies have been classified into three categories, mainly based on their financial positions -- green, amber and red. Srinivas said the IL&FS resolution process is on track and expects to reach "some kind of conclusion" in a time-bound manner. There are almost 55 companies in the green category and they have a loan exposure of about Rs 12,000 crore. Ten out of the 55 companies account for nearly 90 per cent of the loan exposure, he noted. "In the green category, the major focus is on settling dues with respect to those ten large companies. If the dues of the ten companies can be settled, then 90 per cent of the Rs 12,000 crore can be settled... By July end, we will be aspiring to settle the debt of green companies, which is around Rs 12,000 crore," he said. In an interview to PTI, Srinivas also said there are a few cases where creditors are willing to restructure the entire loan to make 'amber' assets green. "We are open to that. If they can be made into green, then around Rs 2,000 to 4,000 crore of debt may shift from amber to green," he noted. The amber companies have debt obligations worth around Rs 20,000 crore and since there is a moratorium, the dues of these firms are not being paid yet. Amber companies are those that have enough money to pay senior secured creditors but not unsecured ones. "We are not paying the dues yet, which is being heavily contested in NCLAT by the creditors... If the secured creditors want distribution of available funds before final resolution, they would have to file their final claims. The interim payments made prior to resolution of the corporate debtor, would automatically get adjusted against the final claim," Srinivas said. Noting that the issue is the distribution ratio between secured and unsecured creditors, he said one option could be that senior creditors get precedence and the residual amount would go to unsecured creditors. "Another option could be pro-rata across the board. And yet another option could be a pre-determined ratio like, say 85 per cent of the funds get earmarked for the secured creditors and the remaining 15 per cent to be shared by unsecured creditors. This matter would be adjudicated by the NCLAT at the next hearing. We will submit a scheme with a few options," Srinivas said. NCLAT is the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal. While the resolution process is not being done under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), the ministry is keeping in mind the time frame provided in the Code with respect to addressing the IL&FS matter. Under the Code, resolution of a stressed company needs to be completed within a maximum time of 270 days from the date of admission. "Though it is not in IBC, we keep those time frames in mind and try our best to be well within those time frames. The 270 days deadline is fast approaching and we have another 90 to 100 days to reach that. The way we are planning we should be able to achieve quite a bit by then and a significant portion would have been resolved," Srinivas noted. IL&FS board was superseded in October 2018. The office space that is part of Jet Airways Godrej BKC, a 12-storey premium commercial building, will be auctioned on 15 May at a base price of Rs 245 crore HDFC, one of the lenders to the now-grounded Jet Airways, has decided to auction prime office space owned by the airline in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) after Jet Airways failed to pay back a loan of Rs 414.80 crore, a media report said. According to Mint, the office space that is part of Jet Airways Godrej BKC, a 12-storey premium commercial building, will be auctioned on 15 May at a base price of Rs 245 crore. The Times of India quoted HDFC saying the property was mortgaged to it by Jet Airways and it was now enforcing the mortgage. In 2008, Jet Airways won a Rs 826-crore bid during an MMRDA auction to develop the BKC plot. Later in 2011, Jet Airways entered into a pact with Godrej to jointly develop the land. In 2015, Godrej Properties sold 4.35 lakh sq ft in Godrej BKC for Rs 1,479 crore to the pharmaceutical firm, Abbott India Ltd. Jet Airways had on 17 April suspended all domestic and international flights after failing to secure emergency funds from its lenders. The embattled airline said it took the decision to ground all aircraft after the State Bank of India on behalf of the consortium of Indian lenders conveyed that they were unable to consider its request for critical interim funding. Recently, two senior finance ministry officials said the government sees little hope of a bidder emerging for debt-laden Jet Airways Ltd. Parties that had initially expressed interest in Jet, which is saddled with roughly $1.2 billion of debt, have failed to come forward with firm bids to bail it out, increasing odds that it could soon face bankruptcy proceedings. There is little scope in the revival of Jet, said one official, adding that if a bidder emerged, the government was still willing to restore slots to the private airline that had been temporarily given to rivals. The second official said it was only a matter of time before someone dragged the carrier to the National Company Law Tribunal - Indias bankruptcy court - for recovery of dues. Last week, The Economic Times, citing sources, reported that three of the four qualified bidders - Etihad Airways, TPG Capital and Indigo Partners - had not signed the non-disclosure agreements necessary for conducting due diligence. The civil aviation regulator had said that lessors already requested the return of more than half of Jets fleet of about 115 aircraft, with the carrier voluntarily returning some of those. With agency inputs Embattled Jet halted all flight operations indefinitely on 17 April after its lenders rejected its plea for emergency funds Jet Airways pilots union has appealed to the Supreme Court to direct state lender, State Bank Of India, to release interim funding to the grounded airline, according to a court filing made on Tuesday which was reviewed by Reuters. Embattled Jet halted all flight operations indefinitely on 17 April after its lenders rejected its plea for emergency funds, potentially bringing the curtains down on what was once Indias largest private airline. The bidding process for the airline is underway with final bidders expected to be known on 10 May. The union has also asked the Supreme Court to direct the civil aviation ministry and aviation regulator to decline any de-registration requests of Jets aircraft and not re-allocate its slots to other airlines permanently, according to the filing. The National Aviators Guild said in its petition that SBIs decision to not give the interim funding of 15 billion rupees, after previously agreeing to it under a resolution plan, has resulted in the airline being grounded and has impacted the livelihood of Jets 22,000 employees. On Sunday, as Jet Airways turned 26, hundreds of employees gathered at the airport in New Delhi continuing with their pleas for saving the carrier. Employees in their uniforms displayed placards, with messages such as 'Save Jet Airways Save our future'. Since the temporary suspension of operations, airline employees have been organising gatherings at various places across the country. With agency inputs By Tom Perry BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanese central bank workers suspended a strike on Tuesday but left open the possibility of resuming the walkout on Friday if the government presses ahead with draft budget proposals that would cut their pay. Strikes in other state-owned bodies including the power producer, telecom firm Ogero and the port of Beirut were also suspended, Bechara al-Asmar, head of the general confederation of Lebanese workers, said. By Tom Perry BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanese central bank workers suspended a strike on Tuesday but left open the possibility of resuming the walkout on Friday if the government presses ahead with draft budget proposals that would cut their pay. Strikes in other state-owned bodies including the power producer, telecom firm Ogero and the port of Beirut were also suspended, Bechara al-Asmar, head of the general confederation of Lebanese workers, said. Work would resume on Wednesday. He said President Michel Aoun had told the workers the government was moving towards suspending a controversial article of the draft budget and the situation at each public sector institution would be studied separately, the National News Agency reported. There was no immediate government comment. With Lebanon suffering from years of low economic growth, long-stalled reforms are seen as more pressing than ever. But the strikes and protests point to the political difficulties facing Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri's unity government as it seeks to agree a budget to rein in a gaping deficit. Hariri said late on Monday failure to pass a "realistic" budget would amount to "a suicide operation" against an economy saddled with one of the world's heaviest public debt burdens. The public sector wage bill is the government's biggest expense followed by debt servicing costs and the big subsidies paid annually to the state-owned power producer. Abbas Awada, head of the central bank workers' union, said they would meet on Friday to decide whether to resume or call off their strike. The strike could be cancelled before then if articles in the draft budget that concern the workers were annulled or an exemption given to the central bank, he said. The central bank strike led to a suspension of trade on the Beirut Stock Exchange for a second day on Tuesday because the transaction clearance and settlement process could not be completed on time. The stock market said trading would resume on Wednesday. The wide-ranging austerity proposals encompass all parts of the state including the military, stirring objections in the army which together with the central bank has been seen as a pillar of Lebanon's stability since its 1975-90 civil war. Hariri, in a late night news conference on Monday, said false information had been circulated about the budget and criticised "preemptive" strikes over it. Amid the friction, Lebanon's dollar-denominated bonds fell across the curve on Tuesday. Retired soldiers have been among the most vocal opponents of the draft budget, blocking roads with burning tyres last month to protest against any cuts to their pensions and benefits. "DRASTIC" MEASURES NEEDED The draft budget aims to reduce the deficit to below 9 percent of GDP from 11.2 percent in 2018. It is seen as a critical test of the government's determination to carry out reforms and will help Lebanon unlock some $11 billion in international infrastructure financing from donors who first want to see reform. "Any reform effort in any country inevitably faces resistance from various sides to preserve their benefits," said Nassib Ghobrial, chief economist at Lebanon's Byblos Bank. "But today the council of ministers ... needs to take drastic cost-cutting measures to provide a budget that is credible, that will create a positive shock in the market." Markets want to see $2 billion shaved off state spending and a $1 billion boost in revenues that should come through fighting tax evasion and improved collection and not new taxes, he said. The finance minister said on Monday he insisted on raising the tax on interest income to 10 percent from 7 percent despite objections from the Lebanese banking association. The chairman of the banking association said last week the proposed hike in the tax on interest income would affect capital flows to Lebanon, weaken banks' ability to play their financing role in the economy, and obstruct growth. (Additional reporting by Tom Arnold; Editing by Mark Heinrich, Alison Williams, William Maclean and Jonathan Oatis) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. On Monday, estranged partners McDonald's and Bakshi told the NCLAT that they were working towards an out-of-court settlement to end their over the five-year-old dispute. McDonald's will get the full control of about 165 outlets in India after the US burger giant and its former Indian partner gave indications of a settlement a couple of days ago following a decade- long dispute between them. McDonald's will take over the operations of around 165 outlets now being run by its partner Vikram Bakshi's Connaught Plaza Restaurants (CPRL) in North and East India, according to The Times of India. "The handover process is in progress. McDonald's will look to renovate and refurbish the outlets and rework the supply chain," the report said citing a senior industry executive aware of the development. On Monday, estranged partners McDonald's and Bakshi told the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) that they were working towards an out-of-court settlement to end their over the five-year-old dispute. Counsels for McDonald's India Pvt Ltd and Bakshi told a two-member NCLAT bench, headed by Chairperson S J Mukhopadhyay, that they were trying to work out a settlement. The bench directed that either of the parties may file an affidavit including the terms of the settlement being arrived at on the next date of hearing on 13 May. In December 2017, Bakshi alleged that McDonald's followed "different standards" for India compared with other countries and continuously ignored the food quality concerns raised by him for the past four years, reported PTI. Bakshi's response came after McDonald's India earlier alleged lapses in food quality and safety level by "all facets of the supply chain". "It appears that McDonald's have global standards for food safety and supplies, and they have a very different set of standards for countries like ours which is a clear double standard," Bakshi alleged. In September 2017, the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) had asked Bakshi to sell his stake in the JV firm CPRL to the US-based fast food chain, reported PTI. In its 2:1 majority award, the arbitration panel has asked Bakshi to transfer his 1,45,600 shares in the 50:50 joint venture CPRL to McDonald's India at a fair valuation in accordance with their JV agreement. In August 2017, McDonald's had terminated franchise agreement for 169 out of its 430 fast food outlets operated by Bakshi-led CPRL in north and east India, alleging breach of contract terms and payment default by the operator. This had created an uncertainty for over 10,000 staff directly and indirectly employed at these outlets. Bakshi was at loggerheads with McDonald's since 2013. Later, he had approached the NCLT after McDonald's removed him from the post of Managing Director (MD) of CPRL in 2013. In July, 2017, the tribunal restored him to his position. It was challenged by McDonald's in the NCLAT. With PTI inputs LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Infrastructure is a bridge to progress for all Sebi had barred the officials from holding any office in any stock exchange for colluding with brokerages which were found guilty of gaining an unfair advantage over others by placing their servers in close proximity the main servers of the exchange. Mumbai: Three senior officials of the NSE resumed work at the same position on Tuesday, after being getting an interim relief from the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) after being barred by the regulator Sebi in the co-location case last week. The Sebi had barred the three NSE officials from holding any office in any stock exchange for colluding with brokerages which were found guilty of gaining an unfair advantage over others by placing their servers in close proximity the main servers of the exchange. "The three have resumed work in the same positions as they were holding earlier," a source in the know of the development said. The three are Ravi Varansi, head of business development; Nagendra Kumar SRVS, head of membership department; and Deviprasad Singh, head of co-location support. Meanwhile, the SAT has given a similar relief to Suprabhat Lala, whose conduct was found wanting on governance and conflict of interest front in the case and was barred. He was barred for two years by Sebi and had approached the tribunal onMonday, which granted him the relief on Tuesday. Lala is likely to rejoin work on Wednesday. Like in the case of the first three employees, the SAT has kept the matter for hearing on 22 July. Sebi had barred Varanasi, Kumar and Singh from holding any position with any stock exchange, clearing corporation, depository and any intermediary registered with it for two years, while Varanasi was prevented from holding any position with a listed company for three years. Their names featured in the Sebi order last week, which levied the biggest-ever penalty on officials starting with former managing directors Chitra Ramakrishnan and Ravi Narain for lapses in the co-location case. The Sebi also slapped over Rs 1,100 crore of penalty on the exchange apart from asking the former MDs to part with 25 percent of their salaries during their tenure at the helm of the nation's largest equity bourse. the data of past years was recalibrated using 2011-12 as the base year instead of 2004-05 The gross domestic numbers are under scrutiny as a key database introduced in the new GDP series is found to be faulty. In November 2018, the government lowered the country's economic growth rate during the previous Congress-led UPA regime, shaving off over 1 percentage point from the only year when India posted double-digit GDP growth post-liberalisation and from each of the three years with 9-plus percent expansion. Recalibrating data of past years using 2011-12 as the base year instead of 2004-05, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) estimated that India's GDP grew by 8.5 percent in the financial year 2010-11 (April 2010 to March 2011) and not at 10.3 per cent as previously estimated. However, a report in Mint quoting a study conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in the 12-months ended June 2017 and released last week has found that as much as 36 percent of companies that are part of the MCA-21 database of companies and are used in Indias GDP calculations could not be traced or were wrongly classified. This is a devastating blow for CSO," said R Nagaraj, a professor at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research in Mumbai, told Mint. The so-called back-series data released in November 2018 is in contrast to an August 2018 report by the Committee on Real Sector Statistics appointed by the National Statistical Commission (NSC), the autonomous body that helps in collection of data by India's statistical agencies. In the report, which the government had subsequently stated was a draft seeking comments from stakeholders, the economy grew at a faster pace under the UPA government from 2004-05 to 2013-14, compared with the average growth during the first four years of the current government. It had put the GDP growth at 10.08 percent in 2006-07 under the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the highest since the liberalisation of the economy in 1991. The highest ever growth rate since Independence was stated to be at 10.2 percent in 1988-89 when Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister. No introspection into the likely lapses in the GDP data calculation process was initiated by the CSO, the topmost government agency in charge of official data handling. Ever since the new GDP series was introduced in the early years of Narendra Modi-led governments rule, there were questions about the accuracy of the gross domestic product (GDP) numbers and its significant disconnect with a number of high-frequency macro economic indicators on the ground. This was, however, only a suspicion and matter of academic debate. The criticism on the GDP numbers almost always turned political with the critics being rubbished by the Central government and the Central Statistics Office (CSO). No introspection into the likely lapses in the GDP data calculation process was initiated by the CSO, the topmost government agency in charge of official data handling. Instead, it kept on defending the flawed methodology. Now, a study conducted by the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO), presents hard evidence to establish that there was a serious problem with the GDP calculation. The NSSO study, first reported by Mint, presents a disappointing picture of how shoddily the CSO has been handling the critical task of compiling national income figures in Asias third largest economy. According to this, 36 percent of companies that are part of MCA-21 database of companies and are used in Indias GDP calculations could not be traced or were wrongly classified. To quote from the NSSO survey, Out of the 39 percent out-of-survey units in MCA, 21 percent were found to be out of coverage and another 12 percent were non-traceable (which in number is nearly 4000 units). In case of EC and BR frames, nearly 6 percent and 14 percent were out of coverage respectively even though there were updations of these two frames. Now, MCA-21 is an important data base which is used in the calculation process of GDP numbers. Around 4,000 units were non-traceable, which, in simple language means CSO was imagining output data from these non-existent firms (either shut down or non-existent) to calculate the GDP growth. In other words, a good part of the work involved in the GDP compilation process was fictitious. How did it impact the overall outcome? In NSSOs words, Non-response rate as a result of limitations of frame was about one-third of the sample enterprises. This is a significant loss of representativeness of the sample. When the geographical domains (state/UTs) or enterprise activity domains are considered, the non-response rates vary extensively over the domains. The estimates from the sample are, therefore, not likely to be robust over the domains. All this means, now we have crucial evidence that the GDP data is not reliable and Indias data credibility has taken a major hit in front of the world which will have a cascading impact on investor sentiments and the way multilateral agencies look at Indias official figures. In fact, the doubts on Indias GDP numbers were existing already. Some time ago, International Monetary Funds (IMF) chief economist Gita Gopinath, had said India should 'transparently communicate' growth statistics. India is projected to be growing over 7 percent both in 2019 and 2020 which makes it one of the fastest growing large economies of the world, which is why it is even more important that the statistics coming out of India are transparently communicated because everybody is watching India at this point said Gopinath in an interview given to CNBC. Gopinath isnt the first high profile international economist to raise the transparency issue. With the NSSO survey pinpoints the misrepresentation of data by CSO, there are more grounds for suspicion on Indias numbers. That, of course, is no good news for the country. It needs to fix the transparency issue and get the credibility back. The world doubting Indias growth numbers could be even more damaging for the Indian economy than facing criticism on failing to bring back the growth momentum. Not just the GDP figures, even the unemployment figures or the lack of it had posed a question mark on the credibility of Indias official data and chances of political interference in data management. In March this year, a group of 108 economists raised an alarm over the political interference in the official statistics. The group appealed to economists, statisticians and independent researchers to come together to raise their voice against the tendency "to suppress uncomfortable data" and impress upon the government to restore access and integrity to public statistics and re-establish institutional independence. The gross errors introduced in Indias GDP calculation need to be probed thoroughly by an independent agency to understand how these discrepancies happened in the first place. Even before that the problematic GDP methodology needs to be scrapped and new methodology needs to be worked out to regain public trust. The NSSO deserves kudos for flagging an important gap in the MCA-21 data base. If this discrepancy is taken lightly or corrective measures are delayed, this can permanently damage Indias data credibility and set a bad precedence even for future governments. (Data contribution by Kishor Kadam) Apart from the two farmers in Deesa, PepsiCo had filed lawsuits against agriculturists from Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts on similar grounds. Ahmedabad: PepsiCo India on Monday withdrew one of the lawsuits it had filed against Gujarat farmers for allegedly growing a variety of potato for which the food and beverages giant claimed to have secured exclusive rights. PepsiCo India Holdings Pvt Ltd made a submission in this regard before the court of principal senior civil and commercial court judge S B Rahatkar at Deesa town in Banaskantha district. "The plaintiff wishes to withdraw the captioned matter relying on its discussions with the government to find a long-term and an amicable solution of issues around its seed protection," PepsiCo told the court. The US-based firm had filed the suit against potato farmers Fulchandbhai Kachchhawa and Sureshbhai Kachchhawa at the Deesa court for growing FC-5 variety of potato for which the company had claimed to have obtained plant variety protection (PVP) rights. PepsiCo had filed the suit against the duo last month. Altogether, 11 farmers were dragged to three different courts in Gujarat for alleged infringement of rights over the particular variety of potato, with the company making damage claims of up to Rs 1 crore from each cultivator. Apart from the two farmers in Deesa, PepsiCo had filed lawsuits against agriculturists from Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts on similar grounds. While the other cases will come up for hearing later, this is the first of the three lawsuits for which PepsiCo has made a formal move for withdrawal. The move comes after the company last week announced it will withdraw cases against Gujarat farmers, following a meeting its executives had with state government officials in Gandhinagar. Lawyer Anand Yagnik, representing the farmers in the courts, maintained the withdrawal of the case "appears to be motivated and malicious". In a statement, Yagnik demanded the state government "make it clear in writing about what transpired between them and PepsiCo and give assurance that it shall not allow multinational companies to litigate against its own farmers". Over 190 activists had last month come out in support of the farmers and requested the Union government to ask PepsiCo to withdraw its "false" cases. In a letter to the ministry of agriculture, 194 signatories had sought financial aid and protection of rights of farmers sued for growing and selling FC-5 potato variety for which PepsiCo claimed to have obtained "exclusive rights in the country in 2016". The rupee opened weak at 69.57 at the interbank forex market and then fell further to 69.64, down 21 paise over its last close Mumbai: The rupee opened on a weak note and declined by 21 paise to 69.64 against the US dollar on Wednesday, as the US-China trade related concerns weighed on investor community. Forex traders said, besides the US-China trade concerns, foreign fund outflows, heavy selling in domestic equities and rising crude oil prices also kept pressure on the Indian rupee. The rupee opened weak at 69.57 at the interbank forex market and then fell further to 69.64, down 21 paise over its last close. The rupee had settled at 69.43 against the US dollar on Tuesday. Meanwhile, China is reportedly sending a high-ranking delegation, led by Vice Premier Liu He, to Washington to resume trade negotiations with the United States. Reports of He's visit come after two days of uncertainty on the fate of US-China trade negotiations as President Donald Trump and his top officials accused China of going back on its commitments. Trump had also announced to increase import tariff on $200-billion worth of Chinese products from 10 per cent to 25 per cent from May 10. Meanwhile, Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, rose 0.43 per cent to $70.18 per barrel. Meanwhile, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) pulled out Rs 645.08 crore on a net basis Tuesday, provisional data showed. Domestic bourses opened on a negative note Wednesday with benchmark indices Sensex trading 236.32 points down at 38,040.31 and Nifty down 68.05 points at 11,429.85. The 30-share BSE index ended 487.50 points, or 1.27 percent, lower at 37,789.13. The index hit an intra-day low of 37,743.07 and a high of 38,248.57 Mumbai: Domestic equity benchmarks extended their losing streak for the sixth straight session Wednesday, with the BSE Sensex plummeting 487 points and the Nifty cracking below the 11,400 mark as US-China trade tensions weighed on global investor sentiment. The 30-share BSE index ended 487.50 points, or 1.27 percent, lower at 37,789.13. The index hit an intra-day low of 37,743.07 and a high of 38,248.57. Similarly, the NSE Nifty sank 138.45 points, or 1,20 percent, to settle at 11,359.45. During the day, the bourse hit a low of 11,346.95 and a high of 11,479.10. The Sensex was mainly dragged by Reliance Industries, HDFC, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and SBI, which lost up to 3.35 percent. Bajaj Finance, Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, Sun Pharma, NTPC, IndusInd Bank, Vedanta, M&M, Yes Bank and ONGC were among the other losers, shedding up to 3.22 per cent. Only Asian Paints, HCL Tech and TCS ended in the green, rising up to 0.60 percent. According to traders, domestic equities tracked weakness in global equities amid escalating trade tensions between the US and China. Markets have been rattled ever since US President Donald Trump on Sunday threatened to hike tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods this week. Energy and financial stocks came under selling pressure amid foreign fund outflows and subdued corporate earnings, experts said. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold shares worth Rs 645.08 crore on Tuesday, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased equities to the tune of Rs 818.84 crore, provisional data available with stock exchanges showed. Other Asian bourses ended significantly lower, with Shanghai Composite Index falling 1.12 percent, Hang Seng 1.23 percent, Nikkei 1.46 percent and Kospi 0.41 percent. European stocks were trading on a mixed note in early trade. The Indian rupee depreciated 19 paise to 69.59 against the US dollar intra-day. Global benchmark Brent crude was trading 0.41 percent lower at $69.59 per barrel. It also questioned how Amrapali Group could mortgage the entire projects and secure loan worth thousands of crores of rupees from banks when it was only an agent to develop the property. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday said that it may give ownership rights of all the 15 prime residential properties of embattled Amrapali Group to Noida and Greater Noida Authorities as it has failed to fulfil its obligations towards 42,000 hassled homebuyers. The top court said that Amrapali Group by its own admission took Rs 11,652 crore from home buyers and invested only Rs 10,630 crore from it for construction of the residential projects. It also questioned how Amrapali Group could mortgage the entire projects and secure loan worth thousands of crores of rupees from banks when it was only an agent to develop the property. A bench of justices Arun Mishra and U U Lalit said that it would protect the rights of thousands of home buyers and push the Amrapali Group out of the projects. "We see that entire Amrapali Group has failed to discharge its duties towards home buyers, authorities (Noida and Greater Noida) and banks. You (Amrapali Group) have neither completed any projects nor invested any money in the projects. We think, you are the one who should be thrown out of these properties. We will vest the rights of these properties with the Noida and Greater Noida," the bench said. It said that Noida and Greater Noida can then be asked to engage any builder or developer to finish the stalled projects and sell the properties under their supervision. "We may throw you out from these properties and transfer its lock, stock and barrel to Noida and Greater Noida. The loans which have been secured by Amrapali Group by mortgaging the lands to the banks can be collected by the financial institutions from the directors of the company or the corporate guarantors. "We will ensure that banks do not enter the premises of these properties and home buyers get the first charge on the properties," the bench said. The top court asked the counsel for Noida and Greater Noida authorities to compile all necessary data as how much money has been paid by Amrapali Group till now, what is the principal lease amount and interest component project wise and how much was the land given to the group. Senior advocate Gaurav Bhatia, appearing for Amrapali said that the group has till now paid Rs 998 crore to both the authorities and Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) Act protects the rights of the developer. He said that Rs 11,652 crore were collected from the home buyers and Rs 10,630 crore were used for construction of various projects besides paying Rs 998 crore to the authorities as lease amount. The bench asked Bhatia to explain the income taxes paid by a Group company Stunning Construction Pvt Ltd of CMD Anil Kumar Sharma and other directors saying that tax liability of directors cannot be cleared from company's fund. Bhatia claimed that Sharma has returned Rs 5.5 crore which was paid for his income tax from the accounts of Stunning Construction while the other director Shiva Priya has said that Rs 4.3 crore tax liability paid was later adjusted towards his salary dues from the Amrapali Group. "You file an affidavit and give us each and every detail when was your income tax paid for which assessment year and when was that money paid back. Show us the transaction. Give all details of the salary or emoluments given to the directors of the company. If any facts and figures are wrong, we will severely haul them up," the bench warned. It posted the matter for further hearing on 10 May. On May 2, two court appointed forensic auditors Pawan Kumar Agarwal and Ravi Bhatia revealed that Amrapali Group gave away flats and penthouses as fees to lawyers representing it at various judicial forums. The court had said that it is prohibited under the Advocates Act and no lawyers can accept the fees in kind. Hearing a batch of home buyers' petitions, the top court had ordered all the directors of Jotindra Steel and Tubes Ltd, a supplier to the Amrapali group, to appear before the forensic auditor Pawan Kumar Agarwal over the next three days. Akhil Sureka, Managing Director in Jotindra Steel and Tubes Ltd, a public listed company, was found to be a director in group companies of Amrapali in the forensic audit. Surekha had said that he was duped by Amrapali which owes him Rs 112 crore for the material they have supplied. On 28 February, the apex court had allowed the Delhi police to arrest Amrapali group CMD Anil Sharma and two directors on a complaint that home-buyers of their various housing projects were cheated and duped of their funds. The top court, which is seized of several pleas of home-buyers seeking possession of around 42,000 flats booked in projects of the Amrapali group, also ordered attachment of personal properties of the CMD and directors Shiv Priya and Ajay Kumar. The trio, under the detention of Uttar Pradesh police and kept in a hotel at Noida since October 9 last year by the apex court for not complying with its orders, was in for a shock when the court ordered the arrest on a plea by Economic Offence Wing (EOW) of Delhi Police saying that it wanted to quiz them in a separate cheating case. The court had also appointed a valuer to ascertain the exact value of 5,229 unsold flats including those booked by Amrapali for just Rs 1, Rs 11 and Rs 12 and asked the valuer to submit its report. However, the practice is not just limited to India, many other countries in the world including developed nations like the United Kingdom (UK) continue to see the prevalence of this ritual, which violates human rights and is a direct attack on the sexual-autonomy of a woman. Editor's Note: This article, published in February 2019, is being republished in the wake of Maharashtra University of Health Sciences approving the ban on teaching virginity test or 'two-finger test' to medical students in the state. Maharashtra becomes the first country in India to do so, and the decision was taken in a Board of Studies meeting held in April. The final decision will be taken by the academic council of the MUHS before the change reflects in textbooks. *** The Maharashtra government Wednesday announced that forcing a woman to undergo a virginity test will soon become a punishable offence. Certain communities in the state follow a custom whereby a newly-wed woman has to prove that she was virgin prior to marriage. The "test" is a gynaecological examination conducted under the belief that it determines whether a woman has had vaginal intercourse by checking her hymen. "Virginity test will be considered a form of sexual assault... after consultations with the Law and Judiciary department, a circular will be issued declaring it a punishable offence," Ranjeet Patil, the Minister of State for Home, said. The minister was speaking after meeting a delegation of some social organisations on the issue. The custom is allegedly followed in the Kanjarbhat community of Maharashtra. Meanwhile, some youths from the community have launched an online campaign against "the test". The movement started by members of Stop the V-Ritual WhatsApp group had complained to the police against the caste panchayat in 2017. However, the practice is not just limited to Maharashtra. As per the WHO, this practice is prevalent in many other countries, including developed nations like the United Kingdom and Canada. Many communities in Indonesia and Afghanistan are also known to follow the custom, which international rights organisations have termed as a form of sexual assault, as per the report. Global agencies such as the United Nations (UN) Human Rights wing, the UN Women group and the World Health Organization (WHO) have called for a ban on the testing calling it "traumatic and unscientific". In a joint statement, UN agencies said that the test has no scientific or clinical basis. "There is no examination that can prove a girl or woman has had sex and the appearance of girl's or woman's hymen cannot prove whether they have had sexual intercourse, or are sexually active or not," they said. "Virginity testing" is a violation of the human rights of girls and women, and can be detrimental to women's and girls' physical, psychological and social well-being, the agencies said. "Virginity testing" reinforces stereotyped notions of female sexuality and gender inequality; the examination can be painful, humiliating and traumatic; given that these procedures are unnecessary and potentially harmful, it is unethical for doctors or other health providers to undertake them; such procedures must never be carried out, the statement read. In many settings, such tests are considered part of the assessment of rape survivors which can cause re-victimisation and lead to heightened trauma, the agencies said. The result of this unscientific test can also impact judicial proceedings, often to the detriment of victims and in favour of perpetrators, leading to their acquittal. In addition, such tests on women prisoners are also common in various parts of the world, the agencies noted. The testing reportedly happens in Brazil, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Libya, Malawi and Morocco as well. In Morocco, these are frequently administered by midwives who lack medical qualifications and thus pose the risk of infections and permanent damage to the assessee's private parts. According to a report, native activists seek to help women become more aware of their choices in such matters and a part of their campaign includes helping people do away with the idea that virginity should be a precondition for marriage. Such examinations are particularly detrimental to women's psychological health and sexual well-being when crude instruments are used to conduct them and basic standards of hygiene are ignored, the report mentioned. Whereas in Afghanistan, more than 200 girls and young women are crammed into dirty prison cells for months and sometimes more than a year for failing the virginity test. When they are eventually released, they face a future defined by shame, exclusion and destitution, The Guardian reported. Virginity testing was banned in Afghanistan in 2016, but police continue to pick up girls and women suspected of having sex, and take them to hospitals or clinics where they are forced to undergo the test, the report says. According to a 2016 Human Rights Watch report, almost half of all women incarcerated in Afghanistan and 95 percent of girls in juvenile detention are there for moral crimes such as having sex before marriage. Marie Stopes, an independent organisation with funding from the Swedish government, works with healthcare professionals in every Afghan province to ensure they know about the ban, and implement it. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the virginity test first came under the spotlight in 2014 when a report by the Human Rights Watch revealed that women applying to join the Indonesian security forces were checked not only for their health but also for whether they had had any prior sexual experience. Indonesias independent National Commission on Violence against Women condemned the virginity test, calling it an act of discrimination against women that violates the Indonesian constitution. According to the Human Rights Watch, virginity tests are a violation of human rights, according to Article 7 of the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Article 16 of its Convention against Torture. Surprisingly, Indonesia ratified both treaties, in 2006 and 1998 respectively. Currently, only 5 percent of personnel in both the Indonesian National Armed Forces and the Indonesian National Police are women as many were reportedly discouraged from joining the forces due to the prevalence of this ritual. Apart from these countries, Canada and the UK also have had well-reported cases of blatant prevalence of this practice, despite international critique and backlash. In London, a young woman testified against her parents for forcing her to undergo the test when they found out she had a boyfriend. With inputs from PTI The Supreme Court in-house committees judgment in the CJI sexual harassment case and the authorities behaviour has thrown up several troubling questions. The Supreme Court's special in-house committee that investigated the sexual harassment accusations against Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi has given its verdict it found no substance in the allegations and has exonerated him completely. The Supreme Courts secretary general issued a terse note on the subject that has exploded into a major controversy, with criticism mounting in mainstream and social media. There were public protests against the judgment in Delhi and Bengaluru on Tuesday, with many more cities expected to organise them in the coming days. The committees judgment and the authorities subsequent behaviour has thrown up several troubling questions: 1. It reportedly took the committee just four sittings to arrive at a conclusion. Why was it in such a hurry to render a judgment? 2. Why did the committee not try to correct the imbalance in power between the accuser and accused in this unique case, by laying out a transparent process and providing adequate legal and other support to the complainant, or appoint an amicus curiae? 3. After the complainant rejected and withdrew from the committees proceedings, why didnt the judges negotiate with her about her demands all of which were anyway standard legal protocols rather than immediately proceed without her? 4. Besides just the complainant and the CJI, did the committee speak to other pertinent witnesses like the Secretary General of the Supreme Court, or the police Station House Officer, who the complainant alleges took her to the CJIs residence to make her apologise to the latters wife (the complainant says she has submitted a video recording of her interaction to the SHO)? 5. According to Hindustan Times, the three-member committee looked only into sexual harassment allegations and did not go into the merits of the disciplinary action taken by the Supreme Court against the complainant. The woman was dismissed in December 2018 and she has claimed this was part of the harassment she faced. If true, doesnt this indicate a very partial investigation of the complainants grievances? 6. Hindustan Times reports that it has also learnt that the panel has said in its findings that before 19 April, when she wrote to 22 judges of the court, the complainant did not raise the allegation of sexual harassment or victimisation despite having an opportunity to do so when she challenged the disciplinary action in December 2018. If true, doesnt this indicate the committees flawed and biased approach as it tries to shame the complainant about not complaining earlier a classic ruse to discredit sexual harassment accusers? 7. The committee has decided to keep its report secret based on a 16-year-old precedent set in the 2003 Indira Jaising versus Supreme Court of India case. Thus, the complainant herself has been denied any knowledge of the committees reasoning in arriving at its conclusion. Is there any way of appealing against this cover of secrecy, especially now that we have the RTI Act? 8. In her letter to the committee on 7 May, the complainant pointed out that the Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act 2013 in Section 13 provides that both parties have a right to receive a copy of the report. Will the committee at least follow this basic tenet of natural justice and provide its report to both the accuser and accused instead of just one of them? 9. The committees report was submitted to the CJI and the next senior judge, Justice Arun Mishra. According to some media reports, Justice Mishra can decide whether to present the report to the full court, since the committee was itself set up by a full courts approval. How can the public appeal to Justice Mishra on this front? 10. As lawyer Gautam Bhatia has argued, if the committees informality insulated it from any requirement to follow existing laws on investigating sexual harassment complaints, then surely its conclusions should also be considered just as informal and disposable? 11. Can the complainant separately sue the Supreme Court as an institution for denying her the due process laid down in current law for sexual harassment complaints at the workplace as per the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Against Women at the Workplace Act and the Vishaka Guidelines (framed by the Supreme Court itself in 1997 to deal with workplace sexual harassment complaints)? 12. Do the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Against Women at the Workplace Act and the Vishaka Guidelines apply to the Supreme Court as a workplace? If not, then what law should specifically guide sexual harassment complaints from Supreme Court employees? 13. In her press release subsequent to the committees judgement on 6 May, the complainant stated, I and my family members remain vulnerable to the ongoing reprisals and attack. What can she do to protect herself from any subsequent attacks? 14. How will this affect the ongoing case of alleged fraud against the complainant (which she claims was fabricated as part of the vendetta against her), where the police is seeking cancellation of her bail? 15. The complainants press release on 6 May also said, My accusation of sexual harassment at the workplace and the consequent relentless victimisation and reprisals against me and my family are substantiated by documents and are verifiable. Will she now release these to the public? 16. On Tuesday, the police declared a curfew under Section 144 around the Supreme Court to prevent public protests against the committees report. The police also detained more than 50 protesters, lawyers, activists and media persons for around four hours to prevent their legal and peaceful protests. Does Indians constitutional right to protest not apply when it comes to the Supreme Court? 17. The media reported that the in-house committee was instituted since no other disciplinary proceedings or procedures have been envisaged in the Constitution against sitting high court and Supreme Court judges. And as pointed out by legal journalist Murali Krishnan, the Supreme Court has a long history of protecting judges against cases and even intimidating their accusers. Doesnt this need to urgently change? Isnt it time we established a clearer investigative and disciplinary mechanism against sitting judges? 18. On 19 April, the complainant couriered an account of her allegations against the CJI to all 22 SC judges in a notarised 28-page affidavit with 108 pages of annexures. A full court on the administrative side approved the in-house committee of three judges to inquire into the allegations against the CJI. And according to media reports, Justice DY Chandrachud recently wrote a letter to the three-judge committee, expressing not just his own but more than 17 Supreme Court judges reservations about the committees working, asking it not to proceed anymore with the ex parte probe. Other media reports claimed that Justice Chandrachud was speaking for himself, with the Times of India reporting that many brother judges were upset with him for writing such a letter. Given all this, will our Supreme Court judges finally push for an external inquiry, since only that will now restore Indians faith in their Supreme Courts impartiality towards and moral authority over them? 19. Most experts seem to think that the complainants one clear legal recourse left is to invoke the CJIs impeachment, which will require a motion in Parliament sponsored by 100 Lok Sabha members or 50 Rajya Sabha members. Given that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, and probably the BJP, has thrown his weight behind the CJI, what will the political Opposition do on this issue during election season when everyone is watching their moves? 20. If the Supreme Court doesnt do anything more about the complainants allegations, how can it expect to have any moral authority in giving judgments on sexual harassment or freedom of speech? The author is the co-founder of The Ladies Finger (TLF), Indias leading online feminist magazine Following Cyclone Fani's landfall, civic workers are working in unison for long hours to restore emergency services, even at times without food. Editor's note: Cyclone Fani has left in its wake a trail of destruction in Odisha. This multi-part reported series tells of who survived the devastation. *** It's not yet 7 in the morning. Scores of people are crowding at the OMFED (Orissa State Cooperative Milk Producers' Federation) stalls-apart from dairy products one gets good tea at such shops located at almost every 500 metres distance in Bhubaneswar. Most of them were waiting to buy milk packets, others sipping their morning tea and discussing, rather trying to gather information from others, on the status of electricity and water supply. Having spent dark nightsfour in a rowand facing water scarcity due to the power breakdown, electricity and water is on everyone's thought. Some are waiting for the newspaper to arrive so that they can have the latest update. However, at the CRPF square, Dayanidhi Das doesn't seem to be bothered by the lack of either power or water. For, on the top of his agenda at the moment is how quickly he can reach his destination. He waves his hands at each and every already overloaded, autorickshaws to take him to Kalpana square, eight kilometres away. Finally, he manages to get inside one. He is happy for he can reach early and continue what he and his other colleagues have been doing for the last three daysclearing roads blocked caused by fallen treesafter Cyclone Fani hit the coastal state hard. "A lot of work has to be done to facilitate the quick restoration of power," says Dayanidhi who works as a Workers Sardar (supervisor) at Bhubaneswar Municipality Corporation(BMC). "In my close to three-decade service this is indeed the biggest challenge before us." On the morning of 3 May, the day Cyclone Fani showed its might, Dayanidhi and 12 of his colleagues was assigned the responsibility to restore the basic services at Saheed Nagar area of Bhubaneswar as soon as possible if it gets affected. With the wind soon upgrading itself to a squall, Dayanidhi feared the worst. "The tree near us was swinging wildly and that alarmed us," he says. "Bhubaneswar was beautiful for the green cover it had. All of them are gone, even the very old ones are no more. It's painful to see the trees lying on the ground," Dayanidhi says. All BMC employees had been advised to remain alert and their leaves were cancelled from 1 May. Following Cyclone Fani's landfall, they are working in unison for long hours, even at times without food. "Our bosses are working round the clock, supervising everything. They are trying to ensure that we are provided transport, food and drinking water so that work is not disturbed," says another employee at Dayanidhi's office. The rescue work done by the National Disaster Response Force along with Orissa Disaster Rapid Action Force(ODRAF) teams has also been praised by many. "All of us need to learn from them how to perform in trying and challenging conditions. They have been just amazing," says Niranjan Panda, a resident of Acharya Vihar locality. An ODRAF personnel in his 20s, who was deployed during previous cyclones to carry out relief work, effectively explained the fury of Cyclone Fani. "I was deployed at Gopalpur during Cyclone Hudhud in 2014. I also worked in Gajapati district after it was hit by Cyclone Titli last year. But Fani has been the severest of all," he says, unwilling to be named. The state has to install as many as 1.56 lakh electric poles. According to an official, the toll in the cyclone, which hit the state Friday, rose to 37 on Tuesday with two more deaths reported in Cuttack district as the struggle to restore power, drinking water and telecom infrastructure continued. Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Tuesday sought the Centre's help in restoration power and telecom services in Puri and Khurda districts, worst hit by cyclone 'Fani', due to shortage of skilled manpower, an official said. The state has to install as many as 1.56 lakh electric poles. According to an official, the toll in the cyclone, which hit the state Friday, rose to 37 on Tuesday with two more deaths reported in Cuttack district as the struggle to restore power, drinking water and telecom infrastructure continued. While 21 people died in Puri district, Cuttack reported five deaths followed by four cases each from Jajpur and Mayurbhanj districts. Kendrapada district reported three deaths, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Bishnupada Sethi said. "We have sought the Centre's help in providing skilled manpower to assist Odisha in restoration of electricity supply in the worst cyclone-hit districts of Puri and Khurda," chief secretary AP Padhi told reporters after meeting with Union cabinet secretary PK Sinha via video conference. He said though the state government has been able to restore water supply in Puri and Bhubaneswar by using diesel generators, it has been an uphill task to provide electricity to people in view of massive destruction of power infrastructure. Padhi said Odisha has requested the Centre to send 5,000 skilled manpower from neighbouring West Bengal, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. These people will be deployed in erecting electric poles and draw wire on them which would facilitate the state to restore power supply in a time-bound manner, he said. However, the Odisha chief secretary did not give any timeline for restoration of electricity service. "I am not certain when exactly all areas will be provided electricity supply. We have already started the process of providing power to the consumers in a phased manner. In view of the massive destruction, one cannot give a timeline," Padhi said. During a review meeting, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik admitted that telecommunication network has completely collapsed in Puri and said the state has urged the Centre to make Mobile Tower on Wheels available in the district to facilitate relief and restoration works. He said lack of telecommunication has adversely affected relief and restoration works. Relief distribution work was launched in Bhubaneswar Tuesday and the same will start in parts of Khurda district from Wednesday, Patnaik said. In absence of drinking water and electricity during the mid-May summer, life in the coastal districts remained derailed even four days after the calamity. The miseries of the people were compounded with high levels of humidity which soared above 90 per cent in coastal districts. "Everything is dependent on power supply. If there is no electricity, the filling stations cannot operate even though they have enough stock of petrol and diesel," Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said. With acute shortage of drinking water, lack of power supply and ATMs becoming defunct, many people, mostly students and elderly persons, have started leaving the state capital for their native places. "There is rush at the bus stand as people move to their villages," Odisha Private Bus Owners Association secretary Tusharkant Acharya said. He said though 400 buses are now plying in the state, more are required to meet the passenger demands after the cyclone. Bus service has started in 80 per cent of routes as the national highways and state highways have been cleared of blockades. Though train service from Bhubaneswar resumed on Sunday, East Coast Railways Tuesday announced cancellation of seven trains including Haridwar-Puri Kalinga Express, Chennai-Santragachi Suvidha Express, Neelachal Express, Puri-Shalimar Express. Meanwhile, the Centre Tuesday extended the last date of registration for students of Odisha to enroll in the JEE (advanced) exam. The eligible students were to resister their names online between 3 and 9 May. I am happy to announce that students from #Odisha appearing for #JEE (Advanced) 2019 will get an extension of 5 days till May 14 for their registration. A decision to this effect was taken following the request of #Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik @Naveen_Odisha .@PMOIndia @HRDMinistry Chowkidar Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) May 7, 2019 Andhra Pradesh chief minister Chandrababu Naidu extended a helping hand to cyclone-ravaged Odisha and tweeted, "A team of 2055 workers, shift operators and staff from energy department will be deputed for rectification work so that service can be restored at a faster pace." He also announced an assistance of Rs 15 crore for the cyclone victims of Odisha. Former prime minister HD Devegowda and Karnataka chief minister HD Kumaraswamy spoke to Patnaik on Tuesday and expressed their solidarity with the people of Odisha. Financial assistance poured in from many quarters with industrialist Gautam Adani contributing Rs 25 crore and ICICI Bank Rs 10 crore to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys (IMFA) also contributed Rs 75 lakh for the cyclone victims. Cyclone Fani, which made landfall in Puri district on 3 May, left a trail of destruction in the state. Bhubaneswar: The death toll in Cyclone Fani rose to 41 while the rehabilitation is underway on war-footing in the affected districts, Commissioner and Secretary, Information and Public Relations, Sanjay Singh told ANI on Wednesday. "Forty-one casualties reported till now in Odisha," Singh, Odisha government official told ANI. "There has been massive damage to power infrastructure in the state particularly in the districts of Puri, Khurda, Cuttack and Kendrapada. On war footing, we are working for restoration of power infrastructure," Singh said. The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), under the Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha today again reviewed the rescue and relief measures in the cyclone Fani affected areas in the state with the senior officials of Odisha government and central ministries or agencies concerned. The state government informed that situation in eight out of total nine affected districts has improved. About 3,500 men are engaged in the restoration of power transmission lines, sub-stations etc and more workers would also be arriving from West Bengal and Telangana. Landline telephone services in Puri have started functioning and BSNL and other Telecom Service Providers have also somewhat improved their mobile services. The state government, in coordination with the Centre, has prepared a detailed plan identifying priority areas for restoration of power and telecom facilities in Puri and Bhubaneswar. Water supply in urban and rural areas has been restored to a large extent with the help of diesel generator sets. Odisha government also informed that additional financial assistance of Rs 1,000 crores released by the Centre had been received by them. While banking services have also resumed in Puri, non-availability of power and telecom connectivity was hampering the functioning of some ATMs. Cyclone Fani, which made landfall in Puri district on 3 May, left a trail of destruction in the state. Today's top stories: Narendra Modi, Priyanka Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal will all campaign in Delhi today; the Supreme Court will hear a plea on Modi's 'bhrashtachari number one' remark on Rajiv Gandhi; Cyclone Fani's toll has risen to 37 in Odisha; and more. BJP, Congress to converge in Delhi in major show of strength today Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address a rally at Ramleela Maidan in the National Capital on Wednesday, which is expected to be attended by thousands of Bharatiya Janata Party workers and supporters. All seven of the BJP's Delhi candidates are expected to be present at the campaign in the major show of strength. Modi is expected to address the rally around 5 pm. Before Delhi, the prime minister will make stops at Fatehabad and Kurukshetra in Haryana, where he is expected to address rallies at 11.30 am and 1.35 pm, respectively. The Congress campaign, too, will focus on Delhi on Wednesday, with party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi scheduled to hold two roadshows in the city in the evening. The first will start at Brahmpuri Pulia, in the North East Delhi Lok Sabha seat, and end at Yamuna Vihar DTC bus depot. The second road show, which will coincide with Modi's rally, will begin at Valmiki Marg, which falls under the South Delhi Lok Sabha seat, and end at Mehroli Badarpur Road. Priyanka's brother and Congress president Rahul Gandhi will be in Madhya Pradesh, with public meetings scheduled in Bhind, Morena and Gwalior through the day. Also holding a roadshow in Delhi will be chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal. SC to hear Congress plea against Modi's 'bhrashtachari number one' remark The Supreme Court, on Wednesday, will hear a plea filed by Congress MP Sushmita Dev on Modi's "bhrashtachari number one" remark against former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. In her plea, Dev said the comment was unbecoming of the high post Modi holds and pointed out that the Election Commission has failed to act against the prime minister and BJP chief Amit Shah in all previous cases. The Election Commission, on Tuesday, gave a clean chit to Modi for this remark on Rajiv. The Congress had claimed that the comment violated the Model Code of Conduct. "The speech mentioned in this complaint has been examined with a view to identify instances of violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Prima facie, we did not figure out any literal violation of the Model Code of Conduct as given in the Election Commission of India instructions. The case is, therefore, disposed of," ANI quoted poll panel sources as having said. The apex court will also hear two more cases related to the Lok Sabha election one on alleged poll code violations by both Modi and Shah and the other, a plea by former Border Security Forces constable Tej Bahadur Yadav against the rejection of his nomination from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. Cyclone Fani: Toll rises to 37, Odisha seeks Centre's help to restore power, telecom services The Odisha government on Tuesday sought the Centre's help to restore power and telecom services in Puri and Khurda districts, worst hit by Cyclone Fani, due to shortage of skilled manpower, an official told PTI. The state has to install as many as 1.56 lakh electric poles. According to an official, the toll in the cyclone, which hit the state on Friday, rose to 37 on Tuesday, with two more deaths reported in Cuttack district, as the struggle to restore power, drinking water supply and telecom infrastructure continued. While 21 people died in Puri district, Cuttack reported five deaths, followed by four cases each from Jajpur and Mayurbhanj districts. Kendrapara district reported three deaths, Special Relief Commissioner Bishnupada Sethi said. Nirav Modi set for fresh bail plea in UK court Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi will file a third bail plea on Wednesday before a UK court, which has already rejected his appeals for bail twice, as he fights against extradition to India in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to $2 billion. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot is scheduled to hear the third bail application at the Westminster Magistrates' Court in London. It remains unconfirmed whether Modi will appear in person or via video link from Wandsworth Prison in southwest London, where the 48-year-old has been lodged since his arrest in March. His barrister, Clare Montgomery, will seek to convince the judge of a change of circumstances to seek bail for a third time at the same court. Mike Pompeo in Baghdad on unannounced visit US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in Baghdad late on Tuesday on an unannounced visit, an Iraqi government source told AFP, cancelling a trip to Germany amid escalating US-Iran tensions. The source, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the high security nature of the visit, said Pompeo was set to meet Prime Minister of Iraq Adel Abdel Mahdi. The visit comes two days after the US announced it was dispatching an aircraft carrier strike group and bomber task force to West ASia to send a "clear and unmistakeable" message to Iran. Confident Trailblazers will battle it out against Velocity in day game The Trailblazers will look to book a berth in the finals as they face Mithali Raj-led Velocity in the second game of the Women's T20 Challenge on Wednesday in Jaipur. Velocity is the third and the latest addition to the competition, who will playing their maiden match. The clash is scheduled to start at 3.30 pm. Depleted by lack of foreign stars DC, SRH to lock horns in IPL game Shreyas Iyer's Delhi Capitals will be looking to extend their excellent away form as they face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday. Both teams will miss their ace international stars in Kagiso Rabada (DC) and David Warner (SRH) for the key encounter. The winner will set a date with defending champions Chennai Super Kings in the second qualifier. Pixel 3a and 3a XL go on sale today Google's latest devices are the next budget Pixel smartphones, the Pixel 3a and 3a XL. They will start at prices of Rs 39,999 and Rs 44,999, respectively, and will be available exclusively on Flipkart. Kanchan Gupta, the youngest assistant editor in the history of The Statesman, has worked with legends in journalism. Editor's Note: This is the sixth in a 10-part series of interviews with well-known residents of Delhi on issues that they believe define the 2019 Lok Sabha election. Read other articles of the series here Kanchan Gupta does not mince words. He can attack a fellow journalist, question his integrity and ridicule him for trading allegations as facts. Many dismiss him as one who says what BJP wants to hear. Journalist Madhu Trehan once described him during an interview on Newslaundry as saffron. Gupta, the youngest assistant editor in the history of The Statesman, has worked with legends in journalism. In 1995, he quit the profession because he was getting bored. He took a break and worked with LK Advani and Atal Bihari Vajpayee and later in the Prime Ministers Office when the National Democratic Alliance came to power. Then national security advisor Brajesh Mishra was Vajpayees eyes and ears and Gupta drew his power from Mishra. His proximity was talked about in political circles. He was also the PMOs representative on the National Security Advisory Board. Many see him as a rabid right-winger. Born to Bangladeshi refugee parents, Gupta was raised in Jamshedpur and Patna where he attended missionary schools. He later moved to Kolkata and later shifted to Delhi. Till then he was left of centre, but one visit to Ayodhya changed it all. It made him see India beyond cities and understand how the masses look at faith, identity and religion. But Gupta is better known for his writings than his politics: When we were growing up in an upcountry industrial town, nearly five decades ago, there was a certain ritual to celebrating Republic Day and Independence Day. Part of that ritual was for the organisers, usually those stepping out of their teens, to play 'patriotic songs' on a borrowed and battered HMV Fiesta. I doubt that practice continues but memories remain of Mahendra Kapoor belting out 'Mere desh ki dharti sona ugle...' Those were years of what we now call India's shortage economy: everything was in short supply, from food to fuel to even school notebooks. Deadly diseases like smallpox and cholera stalked much of the hinterland. Hunger and deprivation were a common feature. We looked at picture postcards relatives sent us from exotic places and photographs in tattered foreign glossies bought from pavement stalls and realised how poor we were, how impoverished was our nation. This land barely offered morsels to its teeming millions; it did not spew gold and pearls and diamonds. Yet we felt happy and were filled with pride every time we heard the song 'Mere desh ki dharti sona ugle...' It was like taking refuge in an imagined India, almost keeping faith with the country and its future. We were not wrong. In these five decades India has radically changed and bears little resemblance to the country we grew up in. And that change is not only in the growth of our economy but the way we think of our place in the world. India is now generating wealth at a pace never seen before. A question arises: has all that has changed been for the better? The answer clearly is 'no'. Like joint families disintegrating into nuclear families, united India has been splintered into jostling, contesting identities. Millennials may find it hard to believe, but there was a time when we spoke of striving for a casteless society where religion would be a matter of private faith. Today, caste identities have become sharper than ever before and religion is on public display. Regional parochialism has come to substitute federalism. The north-south divide now also runs through east and west. That's how politics has reshaped India. Even while signalling our break with the past when umbrellas would come out in India every time it rained in the USSR, we have not quite given up the ghost of socialism. It remains embedded in the Preamble to our Constitution and in the way government thinks, irrespective of the party in power. Which explains why government continues to own banks, fly planes, run trains, ply buses and operate telecommunication services. It makes a terrible hash of it all, just as it continues to make a terrible hash of public sector education. Going back in time to measure expectations makes little sense. There's no percentage in that. We could, however, look at expectations five years ago and measure them with expectations today as we prepare to elect a new government. At a personal level, like many other Indians, I had expected radical changes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi swept to power with a stunning majority. I had looked forward to government disengaging itself from public sector enterprises, rid itself of ruinous expensive habits like propping up Air India, and a lot more, including shutting down Soviet-era ministries like the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Minimum government, maximum governance appealed to most Indians tired of a wasteful nanny State. That did not happen. For instance, we continue to see taxpayers' money squandered on film festivals and awards, apart from discredited public broadcasters like Doordarshan and All India Radio. Low-hanging fruit was not plucked. Nor did we see the Centre tackling the looming farm sector crisis by doing the right thing of dismantling the old, decrepit and outdated Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) driven Minimum Support Price regime, letting market determine prices and allowing farmers to sell wherever and to whomever they wish. Antiquated land ceiling laws still remain in place. Agriculture is a State list subject yet the Union Government won't stop interfering in it and allow states to fashion their own farm sector economy in competition with other states. It would be nice to see the next government abolish the Ministry of Agriculture and insist that states manage what is their responsibility. Would that happen? Which is not to suggest nothing has happened. Actually, a lot has happened in these past five years. We have become a business friendly country. We have stepped on the infrastructure accelerator. We have become a favourite destination of foreign investors. We are now the fastest growing economy, the sixth-largest in the world, all set to become the fifth-largest, moving ahead of Britain which colonised us and left us a broke nation. We have a new healthcare policy and housing for all could just about become a reality. We are part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. We have a robust, even if imperfect, national security policy. That said, we are also a deeply divided nation where the majority feels it is under siege. The rise of the cultural Right is more a defensive response to the feeling of being besieged, of interests and sensitivities being neglected. It would be easy to brush aside the deepening sense grievance as imagined, but that would be of little help. A balance has to be struck so that India's weakening pluralism is not weighed down by strengthening (and competitive) communalism. The secular State has to reinvent itself and make it more relevant for our times. Highfalutin mumbo-jumbo won't do. Similarly, 'cooperative federalism' has to move beyond platitudinous slogans and statements and become a reality. The states need to be made partners, not adversaries, in pushing the India story: 'Sabka saath, sabka vikas' cannot remain unilateral in approach, it has to become multilateral in action. The adoption of GST has served this purpose to an extent by forging a consultative process. But nation-building is not only about taxation. Can we see states playing an increasing role in national policy-making? Cliched as this may sound, India stands at the cusp of history. In the next five years it can either tread a path that will take it to a destination on the right side of history. Or it can fritter away the small but significant gains of these past five years and run the risk of the India Story becoming a footnote in history. That, in a sense, is what this election is about: to see this land of ours live up to the once stirring lyrics of 'Mere desh ki dharti sona ugle...' Cynicism is not an option. Two programs aired by Suvarna News (which is owned and controlled by Asianet) in May 2013 had hinted at the alleged involvement of some Kannada film actresses in the 'betting' and 'spot-fixing' scandal. Still, pictures of Divya Spandana, a former brand ambassador of the Royal Challengers Bangalore team, were shown in the programs, suggesting connivance on her part. A Bengaluru civil court has found media organisation Asianet and its subsidiary Suvarna News liable for defaming actor-turned-politician Divya Spandana for wrongfully linking her to the 2013 Indian Premier League spot-fixing scandal. The court has directed the TV channels to pay damages of Rs 50 lakh to Spandana. The court also accepted the former MP's appeal for a permanent prohibitory injunction restraining both Asianet and Suvarna News from telecasting any programmes linking her to the case. "On perusal of the records, it is clear that the plaintiff has blemishless records and known as a good actress in the Kannada film industry. She has also worked as a Member of Parliament," observed Patil Nagalinganagouda, VIII Additional City Civil and Sessions Judge, Bengaluru, Live Law reported. In May 2013, two programmes aired by Suvarna News owned and controlled by the Asianet group had hinted at the alleged involvement of some Kannada film actresses in the betting and spot-fixing IPL scandal. Photographs of Spandana, a former brand ambassador of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, were shown on the programmes, suggesting connivance on her part. The Congress spokesperson filed a defamation suit against the channels, contending that she was not associated with IPL in 2013 in any manner as she was, at that time, involved in campaigning for the party for the Karnataka Assembly election. According to the Live Law report, Asianet and Survarna News contended that news channels were entitled to broadcast news related to public events and figures. They also contended that they had made no direct reference made to Spandana, and therefore, there was no loss or damage caused to her per se. They also stated that an inquiry by police in the IPL scam had revealed the involvement of two Kannada film stars. However, the court noted that Spandana was not associated with IPL in 2013, and that those nabbed by the Delhi and Mumbai Police in connection with the case had not named her. It held that the telecast of the programmes affected Spandana's reputation. It ruled in favour of Spandana, holding that once a plaintiff proves that publications and imputations are defamatory, the burden shifts on the defendant to justify the publication. "...There are no records produced on behalf of the defendant to show that the plaintiff, being a brand ambassador of the Royal Challengers Bangalore team, was involved in the betting and spot-fixing scandal, as transmitted in the questioned programme by the defendants. Hence, this court is of the opinion that the act of defendants is in complete violation of journalistic ethics and committed deliberately to destroy the popularity of the plaintiff. The act of the defendant is mala fide with an intention to defame her dignity," the court observed. Spandana tweeted to acknowledge the judgment and said she was grateful for getting justice. Justice has been delivered and Im relieved and grateful. Thank you @Promodnair1 for the support and motivation through the years! https://t.co/jmZyVrYyli Divya Spandana/Ramya (@divyaspandana) May 8, 2019 Moreover, Bar and Bench reported that Spandana had sought damages of Rs 10 crore from Suvarna News and Asianet. However, the court found it fit to grant damages of Rs 50 lakh, taking into consideration the status of both the plaintiff and the defendant. By comparison, Jammu and Kashmir is currently undergoing relative stability after a fairly tumultuous situation during late winter and early spring. Experience from the past reveals that traditionally when the durbar returns to Srinagar in May, it is the time when the race for infiltration of terrorists from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir into the Kashmir Valley picks up momentum. By comparison, Jammu and Kashmir is currently undergoing relative stability after a fairly tumultuous situation during late winter and early spring. Experience from the past reveals that traditionally when the durbar returns to Srinagar in May, it is the time when the race for infiltration of terrorists from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir into the Kashmir Valley picks up momentum. The launch pads are usually terrorists awaiting opportunities to infiltrate after the winter has stood in their way; carrying out a recce to discern areas where the vigil is comparatively lower or change of Indian Army units has taken place. It is also the time when snow levels at the Shamshabari Range are considerably reduced, the snow in high altitude areas is harder and easier to tread and importantly the Anti-Infiltration Obstacle System (AIOS) is relatively less effective having borne the weight of heavy volumes of snow through the winter. It's a time when the Indian Army's counter-infiltration grid gets into a state of high energy to neutralise the disadvantages it faces. However, despite all the advantages that infiltrating terrorists may enjoy, there have been no major encounters on that grid this year. Post Pulwama terror attack, the counter-terrorism grid deeper in the hinterland has had some good success against Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) thus communicating the efficiency of the Indian security forces in taking out both the perpetrators of the Pulwama outrage and their leadership. When bereft of effective leadership, foreign terrorists usually signal back to the sponsors of proxy war across the Line of Control for fresh induction and efforts are made to rekindle terrorist effectiveness through infiltration in larger groups. It's done with the hope that even with some attrition the fresh leadership will get through intact. Jamaat-ud-Dawa leader Hafiz Sayeed himself is known to have roamed the Nilam Valley for a number of days some years ago while conveying his thoughts and ideas on mass infiltration irrespective of the attrition that would inevitably follow. In such ventures, human life has little value. Currently none of the above is happening. However, the Lok Sabha elections are underway although the usual excitement level of Assembly elections do not seem to be reflecting in the parliamentary polls. The turnout figures are not very encouraging especially in the Shopian, Kulgam and Pulwama areas which is the central region for current militancy activity. There have been reports of stone pelting and some protests on the streets of South Kashmir but not of the intensity which makes people in Delhi sit up. Targeted killings, however, have been witnessed, the latest being of the Kashmiri BJP leader Ghulam Mohammad Pir in Verinag. The Line of Control is a different domain altogether when viewed detached from the counter-infiltration grid. Without going into extensive statistics the post-Pulwama situation witnessed large scale ceasefire violations by the Pakistan army which were more than effectively responded to by the Indian Army. There have been reports of absence of any actions by Pakistan's Border Action Teams (BATs) although a few weeks ago reports did indicate a general alert against sporadic acts by BATs. Tactical actions at the ground level by our troops, always keep the adversary on the defensive. However, the LoC is a dangerous place where in the last six months there has been a surge in casualties due to sniper fire from Pakistan. Although this too has reduced, the Indian Army's response was hardly reported in the media; improvisation was effective until the new equipment started to arrive and training in earnest began with most being on the job itself. Some analysts are reading the situation as one of Pakistan holding back its usual activities since it is under intense pressure from the international community to demonstrate its resolve to put curbs on sponsorship of terrorist organisations. However, we need to just remember that a full-scale deterioration of the situation, on the LoC, the counter-infiltration grid or in the counter-terrorism and street turbulence domains could be just one incident away, awaiting a potential trigger. Pakistan has come under pressure in the past too; post 26/11 we did not witness any deterioration in the situation but the environment then was different; India and Pakistan were yet in engagement mode. Similarly, 2011 saw relative calm after a turbulent 2010 when agitation became the prime mode of proxy activity. The assessment then pointed to the weariness of the population to the long shutdowns and Pakistan's perception of potentially losing the narrative to that. Some of the factors playing on the minds of the Pakistan leadership and the deep state could include a potential dilution in support from China; something which appears to have been conveyed to Prime Minister Imran Khan during the recent Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) summit. Chinas changed stance on the Masood Azhar issue could be reinforced by the likelihood of the withholding of financial support by the West and the potential negative reports from the Financial Assistance Task Force (FATF) deliberations. All of the latter would once again put pressure on China to continue financial bailouts of Pakistan, something which cannot go on interminably especially in the face of mounting pressure from Washington on trade-related issues. Chinas virtual capitulation on Iran oil is a standout example. Bravado in words appears to characterise Pakistans post-Balakot stance with a perception prevailing that it has proven that below the threshold of conventional showdown it can match India in any military way. However, there can be no guarantee for Pakistan that an event involving a terror act will not cross the threshold. Besides that, the Balakote strike did come as a surprise. Now, that the escalatory ladder has spiraled to a higher level the next crossing of the threshold could draw another even more unpredictable Indian response than an IAF strike on terror infrastructure. A cooling off period is, therefore, perceived to be mandated. Pakistan probably assesses that alienation levels on which the deep state has worked for the last five years or so are at high and local terrorists are sufficient in numbers with an available pipeline for reinforcement, should the need arise. Besides, the electoral turnout could be perceived to be indicative that nothing may change so drastically with such cooling. The tourist season too remains blank thus far and may not recover sufficiently to create positivity in the environment. All the above are aspects of assessment on the basis of past trends and current inputs. However, the next spectacular act could be around the corner since predictability is obviously low in such an environment. Pakistan may yet throw caution to the winds and plan something which it thinks it can handle with the international community and its all-weather partner China. Yet India while keeping up its guard at the LoC, in counter infiltration and the counter-terror grid needs to grab the opportunity under the new government to create fresh initiatives as was done in 2011 when it exploited the tactical break. Since its strategy remains open-ended without conflict termination or resolution in mind, Pakistan has now experienced that the Indian response to every fresh sub-strategy and trigger is first in the robust and muscular domain which results in India receiving setbacks from the achievements it has made. Can India better that through far better application and a modicum of political consensus? A whole crop of ideas on changing the narrative exist and have only to be revisited. At the same time, wargaming of the response to different scenarios must be done in earnest and response vectors selected and rehearsed. We may need these earlier than what assessments can point to. The author is a retired lieutenant-general of the Indian Army and tweets @atahasnain53 If those that are most affected by lack of water do not care to vote for its proper management, the future looks bleak. Why do voters care about provision over management of a resource like water? That was the question we left open in our previous column. Ill answer that question by asking (and answering) a different one: What is the appropriate time and the appropriate scale at which to deal with water issues in a democracy? A Question of Scale Lets start with scale first. If it is to do with provision (and division) of waters the answer is to deal with it at as high a level as relevant. Consider Delhi as a case in point. The Niti Aayog Composite Water Management Index stated that: India is suffering from the worst water crisis in its history and millions of lives and livelihoods are under threat. The report went onto say that several Indian cities were likely to run out of groundwater in the next decade. Like throwing a lit match into the smouldering embers, an author of a more recent study reinforced this message. Dr Virendra M Tiwari, director of the National Geophysical Research Institute, whose institute conducted this study, was quoted as saying We have no clue how much ground water storage is left in the region. But what we clearly know is that the picture is very grim.. Delhis Jal Board supplies about 900 million gallons per day. Where does this water come from? From the Yamuna, the Ganga, from the Bhakra storage, from the ground and a tiny bit from recycled water. Lets take the Yamuna, which supplies the largest chunk of Delhis water. The control of these waters lies with Haryana giving the power to quenching Delhis thirst to Haryana, especially during the lean (and critical) summer months. Haryana periodically flexes its hydrological muscles, most notably during the Jat protests of 2016. These protests came about because members of the Jat community demanded quotas for jobs and education. In February 2016, protestors held the Munak canal to hostage significantly reducing Delhis water supply. A panicked Delhi Chief Minister took to Twitter, tweeting: Spoke to Rajnath ji also and apprised him of grave situation. He has assured that army is being sent to munak canal and Spoke to Haryana CM. He has assured that he will immediately send army to ensure safety of munak canal, followed by We've completely run out of water. I appeal to the centre with folded hands to immediately intervene and get munak canal started in Haryana [sic]. These 139 characters speak volumes of what is wrong with water management in India today. The army was sent in to take control, which it did, post which waters were released to the nations capital. The Delhi Chief Minister then tweeted: Thank u army, thank u centre for securing munak canal back. Great relief for delhi [sic]. The two states upstream and downstream continue to bicker about the actual quantity and quality of supplied water. More recently, the Delhi Jal Board has dropped its cases against Haryana to ensure water supplies continued in the lean season. Haryana, in turn, squabbles with Punjab over its share of water in a case over Punjabs termination of water-sharing agreements with other states that has gone to the Supreme Court. Several Northern states look hungrily at the Indus Water Basin, whose waters primarily flow into Pakistan. Clearly, when it comes to provision, especially when while dividing river waters which are shared by many states (and even countries), the national scale maybe more appropriate. But wait a minute. Is this the full story? Haryana, for its part, said 300 cusecs of water supplied by Haryana to Delhi is being wasted by Delhi due to leakage and pilferage in an affidavit to the Delhi High Court. Haryana is not alone in making this accusation other studies have placed Delhis water loss to about 40 percent. Lack of metering, faulty meters, theft, leaks due to aging, rusty and creaky water infrastructure all contribute to this sorry state. For that matter, Delhi is not alone in losing a large chunk of its water to theft and leaks most cities in India share this dubious honour. Fixing leaks and theft comes firmly under the head of management (as opposed to provision), which is best performed by local governments. Delhis groundwater crisis also owes some share to the 200 MGD of groundwater being drawn by private sources controlling and optimising this extraction and use is again a local issue. Meanwhile, Delhi generates a fair bit of sewage, which appropriately treated can easily meet some part of its water needs flushing and landscaping. to name just two. This is already being done at scale in the peripheries of many Indian cities, especially Bengaluru. This may be the approach that finally cracks Delhis water problems too. Seen purely in the present, the division of waters looks to be a topic for national or legal arbitration. But we make policies not just for the present; in the future, as water grows more scarce, upstream geographies will become increasingly reluctant to loosen their grip over the waters that originate and pass through their boundaries. In this situation, management will progressively assume greater importance in the hydrological toolkit than it has now. Conversely, the more we lean on provision (i.e., a greater share in the Indus System waters, for instance), the less motivation we will have to manage our water. But it is important to note that because sewage and leakage are both something entirely within a single governments control, it does not need an external government to be part of the solution. In that sense, it is more feasible. So why arent voters saying they will vote for the politician who cuts leakage? Water management is poorly suited to politics, because of one word timescale. A Question of Time For the average Indian, income is highly uncertain. Consider the case of residents of informal settlements in the cities. Many of these residents have a patchwork of jobs they are our auto drivers, waste pickers, household staff, cobblers, part-time tailors, petty shopkeepers. They are, in fact, what makes Indian cities tick. But their incomes are far from predictable; if there is a puncture, thats an hours income gone for the auto driver, a sick child means a days income lost for a maid, a customer may not pay, or a chance accident could ruin the stock. Their expenses, on the other hand, are fixed: rent, school supplies, medical bills, alcohol, food. Expensive credit wedges the gap between precarious cash inflow and steady cash outflow. Apart from a fickle income, there are other forms of uncertainty. Imbibing poor quality water, air and food, health becomes uncertain. Even with an electrical connection, whether or not power flows is uncertain. The quantity and timing of water availability is uncertain. Whether a teacher will come to class on a given day to teach ones child is uncertain. All this uncertainty translates to a sky-high discount rate applied to future cash flows promised by todays investments. Now, tell me, if your cost of credit varied between 50 and 100 percent, how long would your outlook horizon be? A week? Maybe two. The uncertainty of the lives of our main voters dictates their short term outlook, and may help explain why we are a more transactional society. Where choices are made favouring the immediate rather than the long term and on upfront cost and timing, rather than value of life-cycle impact. This explains why poorer voters prefer to vote for someone who gives them ready cash, or to someone from their own caste, who they can more reliably approach when something predictably goes wrong. To wit, the cash seizure in Tamil Nadu as of 19 April (the day it voted), was over Rs 200 crores, a third of overall cash seized in India. Nearly Rs 300 crores of precious metals were seized as well. If this argument is true (and my suspicion is that it is), this hammers the nail on water management, because water management works best when you apply a low discount rate, so that future gains compare meaningfully with current costs. But if those that are most affected by lack of water do not care to vote for its proper management, the future looks bleak. Is this the end of the story? Let it be? No, but it does help explain the present political impotency of water. In the next column, we will consider how we can alter this equilibrium. The writer is the founder of the Sundaram Climate Institute, cleantech angel investor and author of The Climate Solution India's Climate Crisis and What We Can Do About It published by Hachette. Follow her work on her website; on Twitter; or write to her at cc@climaction.net. Meanwhile, 700 teachers, researchers and academicians of Delhi University and other Delhi-based universities -- JNU, Jamia Millia Islamia, etcetera -- appealed to the public to vote to elect a 'progressive, result-oriented, corruption-free, nationalistic NDA government under the dynamic leadership of Narendra Modi New Delhi: Delhi University professors got into a war of words over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about late Rajiv Gandhi, with one section condemning the comments and another supporting him. As many as 207 DU teachers issued a statement on Monday night against Modi for making "derogatory and untrue" remarks about former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. It was followed a statement by 121 teachers on Tuesday in favour of Modi and accusing Gandhi of "corruption". The statements from the two sections came after Modi had targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale issue in a rally on Saturday, where he said: "Your father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as corrupt number 1." "Narendra Modi has lowered the dignity of the office of the prime minister by making derogatory and untrue remarks about the late Rajivji, who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation," the signed statement read. No prime minister has ever "stooped" to this level through such actions as has Modi. The nation acknowledges the achievements of the former prime minister, they said. The statement had references to the role of the Bofors gun in the 1999 Kargil conflict and the telecom revolution. "When India beat back the invaders from Kargil, our soldiers shouted slogans praising Rajiv Gandhi for the Bofors gun even though Rajivji had been martyred a decade ago," the statement read. "If our IT companies earn each year billions of dollars in foreign revenue, it is because of the farsighted wisdom of Rajivji. If India is connected as a nation through the advances in the telecom sector it is because of the policies and actions of Rajivji," it said. According to the statement, if train travel is so much more convenient today, it is because of Rajiv Gandhi's acumen in computerising rail reservation. "History records the deeds of the good and the noble, but rarely does it pay attention to the carping of lesser individuals," it added. The statement was also signed by former Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) president Aditya Narayan Misra, two DU executive council members, three academic council members, the DUTA vice-president and joint secretary, and a member of the varsity's finance committee. A media report claimed that two teachers did not sign the letter, but they did not respond to messages and calls. Another section of the teachers fully supported Modi "for bringing into public attention the regime of corruption in big defence deals started during Rajiv Gandhi's tenure". "(The) Bofors deal became a symbol of official corruption; it initiated a trend which had consistently been followed by Congress-led governments. Scandals like 2G, Coalgate, CWG, and now Scorpene Submarine scandal directly involving Rahul Gandhi are all the natural corollaries of Bofors tradition," the statement read. "The subsequent remote-controlled Manmohan Singh's UPA government even defroze the accounts of Gandhi's family friend swindler Ottavio Quattrocchi," they said. They accused Rajiv Gandhi of beginning his term as prime minister "by justifying wanton murder of thousands of Sikhs in 1984 -- an officially sponsored pogrom". "Rajiv Gandhi as PM was responsible for letting Warren Anderson Chairman of Union Carbide escape justice in the Bhopal Tragedy episode. "His company was responsible for the death of thousands of poor Bhopal residents -- most died instantaneously and thousands later owing cancer and other diseases caused by poisonous gas leaks. PM Modi has rightly pointed the darker side of Rajiv Gandhi. He can't escape historical critique," they said. The statement by some DU teachers wants everyone not to point out any finger at Rajiv Gandhi, whereas they refer to the Modi in the most foul language on a daily basis, it read "The fact that Sh. Rajiv Gandhi was awarded a Bharat Ratna- Jawaharlal Nehru and all his PM progenies had been so awarded- cannot prevent future analysts to critique his contribution to organised corruption and Congress supported genocide of Sikhs in 1984," the statement added. Meanwhile, 700 teachers, researchers and academicians of Delhi University and other Delhi-based universities -- JNU, Jamia Millia Islamia, etcetera -- appealed to the public to vote to elect a "progressive, result-oriented, corruption-free, nationalistic NDA government under the dynamic leadership of Narendra Modi". "During the last five years of Modi government, India has been put on the upward trajectory on all parameters of development and growth. India's voice is heard with attention and its opinion respected by the world," they said in the appeal. Father of modern legal education in India NR Madhava Menon, passed away at a hospital in Kerela due to age-related ailments, on Tuesday. He was 84. He is survived by a wife and a son. Thiruvananthapuram: Father of modern legal education in India, NR Madhava Menon, passed away at a hospital in Kerela, family sources said Wednesday. He was 84. He is survived by a wife and a son. "He had been treatment for the past one week for age-related ailments at a private hospital. He left us around 11.30 pm yesterday (7 May)," a source close to the family told PTI. "The funeral will take place at 2.30 pm on Wednesday at Shanthi Kavadam state-owned crematorium." President of India Ram Nath Kovind condoled his death. "Sorry to hear of the passing of Prof N R Madhava Menon, educationist, scholar, and a pioneering spirit behind modern legal education in India, beginning with National Law School of India University, Bangalore. My condolences to his family and countless students," the president said on his official Twitter account. Kerala governor P Sathasivam said he was "deeply saddened" by the demise of Menon, whose insightful ideas modernised legal education in India. "As an authority in legal and constitutional matters, he used his limitless erudition to build world-class institutions and to enlighten generations of students," he tweeted. Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan in his condolence message said that Menon gave a new direction to the legal education sector in the country. "The National Law School in Banglore was established due to efforts taken by Menon. Later, the then Chief Minister of West Bengal, Jyothi Basu, invited him to start a similar institution in Kolkata," Vijayan said in a release, adding that his achievements would make any Keralite proud. Menon started his legal career with the Kerala High Court at the age of 21 after graduating from Government Law College. He later shifted his base to Delhi and joined the faculty of Aligarh Muslim University in 1960. Menon moved to Delhi University in 1965 and headed the prestigious Campus Law Centre. He established the National Law Institute of India University in Bengaluru in 1986 and was the vice-chancellor of the university for 12 years. Menon was also the founding director of National Judicial Academy in Bhopal. The nation honoured him with the Padma Shri in 2003 for his contributions to the legal field. Nirav Modi's defence team doubled the bail security to 2 million and offered he would stay on 24-hour curfew at his London flat, but the judge was unconvinced. London: A UK court Wednesday denied bail to Nirav Modi for the third time, saying the fugitive diamond merchant who is the main accused in the Punjab National Bank fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to $2 billion would fail to surrender. Dressed in a light blue shirt and trousers, the 48-year-old appeared before Westminster Magistrates Court Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot and sat behind a glass enclosure as the hearing got underway. Nirav's defence team doubled the bail security to 2 million and offered he would stay on 24-hour curfew at his London flat. "Conditions in Wandsworth (prison) are unliveable... Nirav is willing to abide by any conditions you choose to impose," his barrister Clare Montgomery told the judge during the lengthy hearing. However, the judge was not convinced. "This is a large fraud and the doubling of security to 2 million is not enough to cover a combination of concerns that he would fail to surrender (if bail is granted)," said judge Arbuthnot. Earlier, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), arguing on behalf of Indian authorities, said Nirav should not be granted bail as the evidence presented by the defence does not amount to change of circumstances required to third bail application. Nirav's defence team, led by barrister Motgomery who was also the barrister for former Kingfisher Airlines boss Vijay Mallya in his extradition case opposed the CPS claims of Nirav being a flight risk. He is believed to have been living in the UK on an Investor Visa, applied for in 2015, at a time when the so-called golden visa route was relatively easier for super-rich individuals to acquire residency rights in the UK based on a minimum of 2 million investment. He was denied bail by District Judge Marie Mallon at his first hearing on 20 March soon after his arrest by Scotland Yard officers from a central London bank branch as he tried to open a new bank account and has been in custody at HMP Wandsworth prison in south-west London since then. He was denied bail a second time on 29 March by Chief Magistrate Arbuthnot who ruled that there were "substantial grounds" to believe that he would fail to surrender and also noted that "very unusually in a fraud case" the accused had made death threats to witnesses. Nirav and his uncle, Mehul Choksi, are the main accused in the PNB scam and they both left India before the details of the fraud came to light in January 2018. He is wanted by India in relation to the Rs 13,500-crore PNB fraud case. PSEB 10th Result 2019 declared: The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) declared the Punjab board Class 10 result on 8 May. PSEB 10th Result 2019 Declared | The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) declared the Punjab board Class 10 result on Wednesday, 8 May. While the merit list was announced around noon, the results were made available on the official website pseb.ac.in around 3 pm. Students registered a near 30 percent jump in the pass percentage to 85.8 percent from around 57 percent in 2018. The Class 10 exams conducted by PSEB began from 15 March to 2 April. Students are advised to keep their documents hall ticket/admit card ready for details like their roll numbers to check their results. Follow LIVE updates here How to check PSEB Class 10 exam results: Step 1: Log on to official website of the Punjab School Education Board Step 2: Click on the link saying 'Punjab Class 10 board exam result 2019' Step 3: Enter hall ticket details to log in Step 4: Click on the 'submit' button to view scores Step 5: Take a printout of the result for future reference Students who appeared for the Punjab Board Class 10 exam will be required to collect the original marksheet from their school. They will also be required to provide the original marksheet and passing certificate for applications in other courses. Students can also check any result-related information on the official website or on alternative websites like examsresult.net or indiaresults.in. In 2018, the overall pass percentage of PSEB Class 10 students was at 59.47 percent. Around 3 lakh students sat for the exam in 2018, out of which around 2 lakh students were eligible for the exam. Students will need at least 35 percent of the marks in each subject to pass the exams. The alleged incident took place at a temple premises in Zendewadi locality of Saswad area of Pune around 10.30 pm on Tuesday when Milind Ekbote, who is an accused in the Koregaon-Bhima violence case, went there to attend a programme. Pune: Right-wing activist Milind Ekbote has lodged a police complaint alleging that he and his supporters were beaten up by some 'cow vigilantes' over a minor dispute in Maharashtra's Pune district, an official said on Wednesday. The alleged incident took place at a temple premises in Zendewadi locality of Saswad area of Pune around 10.30 pm on Tuesday when Ekbote, who is an accused in the Koregaon-Bhima violence case, went there to attend a programme, he said. Ekbote, who is known to be a supporter of cow vigilantes, lodged the complaint against 40 to 50 people and one Pandit Modak, who runs a 'gaushala' (cowshed) in the area, Saswad police station's inspector Annasaheb Gholap said. "Ekbote had written a post on his Facebook page against Pandit Modak in connection with the functioning of the gaushala which apparently upset the latter. When Ekbote went to Zendewadi to attend a programme, Modak along with his supporters went there to seek an explanation from him over the post," Gholap said. "This led to an argument following supporters of both Ekbote and Modak indulged in a scuffle," he said. Some policemen who were already present in the temple premises immediately intervened and brought the situation under control, the official said. Later in the night, Ekbote reached the Saswad police station and lodged the complaint against Modak and 40 to 50 other people, Gholap said. Based on his complaint, the police registered a case against Modak and others under various Indian Penal Code sections, including 146 (rioting) and 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), but no arrest has been made so far, he said. According to police, Ekbote and Modak worked together in the past, but due to some differences, they parted ways and started functioning separately. Ekbote is currently out on bail in the Koregaon-Bhima violence case. A former woman employee of the Supreme Court wrote a letter to the judges of the Supreme Court, giving a fairly detailed account of how she was allegedly harassed and victimised by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi. It would be difficult to fathom a more glaring act of abuse of constitutional office than the one that was on display in the Supreme Court over the past two weeks. A former woman employee of the Supreme Court wrote a letter to the judges of the court, giving a fairly detailed account of how she was allegedly harassed and victimised by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi. What did the complainant want? Simply for the judges to take cognisance of her complaint and appoint an independent and impartial inquiry committee comprising retired judges of the Supreme Court examine the allegations. In a democracy run by constitutional values, this is the least one could have asked for. However, what happened since the receipt of the complaint until the conclusion of the ex parte, in-house inquiry proceedings is simply constitutionally intolerable. It does not take a constitutional law expert to point out that no man should be a judge in his own case. Or that both sides to a proceeding must be given a fair and equal opportunity of being heard, which includes legal representation. Nor is it unknown to anyone that there is a significant appearance of bias when members of an inquiry committee are subordinate to the person against whom the inquiry is to be conducted. More than the decision itself, the decision-making process has left such a deep scar on the Supreme Court that it will take years, if not decades, to completely go away. First, the respondent CJI used his administrative powers to convene a special bench, making himself a part of it. He then used his constitutional office to shield himself from allegations of a personal nature, imputed motives of the complainant, attempted to gag the media, and did not put his name on the 20 April order despite having presided over the bench. This was followed by the constitution of an inquiry committee headed by a male judge, with two women judges acting as members. All three members of the committee are subordinate to the respondent CJI and were appointed, as a matter of fact, to enquire into allegations made against their administrative boss. An external member, such as a senior advocate or an academic working in the area of women rights, was not part of the committee. However, the attack to our democratic constitutional conscience did not stop there. The complainant was denied legal representation without cause, was not given copies of her depositions, and was not educated on the procedure that the committee was to follow. This forced the complainant to withdraw from the proceedings. And instead of addressing the complainants concerns, the committee chose to proceed with a one-sided inquiry and ultimately dismissed the complaint as lacking in substance. Not only that, the committee refused to hand over its reasons and findings to the complainant citing an outdated judgment. What does all this say about the country's most powerful court? That it does not care about fundamental rights of citizens, procedural due process or natural justice when it comes to one of its own. It is none other than the Supreme Court itself that laid down the Vishaka Guidelines in 1997 on how complaints of sexual harassment must be dealt with. And in the past two decades, the court handed down countless judgments acknowledging the care and sensitivity with which the issue of workplace sexual harassment must be viewed in India (one such judgment was authored by Ranjan Gogoi himself in 2012 in the case of Medha Kotwal vs. Union of India). It is a basic principle of rule of law that an inquiry should not and cannot take place under a veil of secrecy with no known procedure to be followed. In cases of sexual harassment, the woman complainant must have legal representation and a clearly spelled-out procedure must be followed. Witnesses must be summoned and an exhaustive fact-finding exercise must be undertaken. Last but not the least, the committee must educate the complainant about what legal options or remedies she has against the respondent and should, in fact, assist her in exploring those options. None of this happened. The committee took less than two weeks to come to the conclusion that there is no substance in the allegations made by the complainant. No reasons were disclosed to the complainant as to why the committee felt so. Did the committee summon and closely examine all the key witnesses? What did they depose before the committee? Did the committee take steps to ensure that the witnesses deposed before the committee without any fear or favour given that they were recording statements against the head of the institution where they work? There is no doubt then that the entire inquiry proceedings as well as the report of the committee is illegal and void ab initio. Whether or not it would be so declared by a court of law is a different matter. Needless to say, by not making the report public, the Supreme Court has sent a message to the people of this country that judges of Indias top court are beyond public scrutiny and accountability. Public confidence in constitutional courts is the bedrock of India's democracy. When the Parliament or the executive fails to honour its duties and obligations, we, the people of India, turn to our constitutional courts with a lot of hope to realise our rights and liberties. Taken as a whole, the Supreme Courts handling of the complaint calls for a genuine introspection about the future of the institution as a repository of public trust. For now, one way for the Supreme Court to prevent any further damage to its reputation is to recall its inquiry report and constitute a fresh inquiry committee headed by a retired woman judge of the Supreme Court, with retired Supreme Court judges and a women rights' activists as members. The complainant must be entitled to legal representation and the committee must proceed in accordance with the Vishaka Guidelines (or the 2015 POSH Law). How can we expect sexual harassment to end if the Supreme Court itself does not take it seriously? The author is a lawyer Anand Giri, who is a mahant at the Bade Hanuman temple in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, was picked up from Oxley Park suburbs to the west of Sydney. Spiritual leader and yoga guru Anand Giri was on arrested in Australia on Sunday for sexually assaulting two women on two separate occasions, during prayer meetings at their houses. Anand, who is a mahant at the Bade Hanuman temple in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, was picked up from Oxley Park suburbs to the west of Sydney, the Australian news portal SBS has reported. The 38-year-old yoga expert had been on a six-week tour of Australia, which was scheduled to end on Monday, a day after he was held. The New South Wales Police, in a press release, said that Anand (who is not named in the release but referred to as "man") met a 29-year-old women in the suburb of Rooty Hill at her house for prayers in 2016 and indecently assaulted her there. In November, 2018, Anand assaulted a 34-year-old woman living in the same neighbourhood during a prayer meet at her house. Both women knew Anand prior to the assaults. Charged on two counts, Anand is set to appear at the Mt Druitt Local Court on 26 June and will be remanded in police custody until then. He was refused bail at Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday. Akhil Bhartiya Akhada Parishad president Narendra Giri confirmed the arrest to Hindustan Times. Narendra, however, told the newspaper that the women, who are of south Indian origin, had fallen out over an issue with Anand and were intent upon framing him this way. "Our people in Australia are in contact with authorities and a bail application has again been filed," Narendra was quoted by HT as having said. Anand's Facebook account has photographs of him with the likes of Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Union minister VK Singh among others. TN 11th Result 2019 Declared: The Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE) Tamil Nadu declared the TN Class 11 result today on tnresults.nic.in. TN 11th Result 2019 Declared | The Directorate of Government Examinations (DGE) Tamil Nadu declared the Class 11 results today (8 May, 2019) on its official website tnresults.nic.in. As much as 95 percent students cleared the Tamil Nadu Class 11 board exam, up by 3.7 percent. Girls scored better than boys with a pass percentage of 96.50 percent against 93.3 percent. As many as 2,634 schools in Tamil Nadu registered 100 percent performance. The Class 11 exams were held between 13 and 22 February and nearly 9 lakh students appeared for it. In case the official website tnresults.nic.in is unresponsive due to heavy traffic, students can also check their results on dge.tn.nic.in and dge.tn.gov.in. Students can follow these steps to check their results: Step 1: Visit the official website tnresults.nic.in Step 2: Click on the link HSE +1 March 2019 result Step 3: Log in using the registration number Step 4: Your results will appear on your screen Step 5: Download the results and take a printout for future reference Students can also download the TN HSC result mobile application on Android and iOS devices to get their scores easily. After the result is declared, students can access their marksheets on dge.tn.nic.in or collect them from their respective schools. In 2018, the TN Class 11 results were declared on 30 May, and the overall pass percentage stood at 91 percent. Over 8.6 lakh students had appeared for the exams, in which girls significantly outperformed the boys. Popular Indian cinema portrays situations and characters in an immediately recognisable way, familiar not from observation but from popular belief, and as ideals. This suppression of observation by idealisation and convention is a characteristic that one frequently encounters in real life in India. In Indian workplaces, the appearance of commitment is demanded rather than productivity There is a general sense that the work ethic among Indians is not laudable, especially since efficiency does not run high. If one looks at global businesses, Indians have done better abroad than at home, though they spend longer hours at work here. Someone well-employed in the new economy in India moving to the US for higher education and then doing virtually the same kind of work is not uncommon. This seems entirely because working conditions are better in the US: Employees are not required to work long past office hours and on weekends. In India, a 12- or 13-hour day is not uncommon, and neither is a seven-day week. To all appearances, Indians work much harder in India and still manage to be less productive. Where employees are encouraged to have a life outside their work in the global milieu, Indian corporates are known to encourage employees to spend even their leisure hours on the campus. An employee needing to give 24 hours a day to his/her job if required is familiar rhetoric, though the demand is ludicrous. All this suggests that it is the appearance of commitment that is demanded rather than productivity. A question then arises: Could there not be embedded aspects in Indian attitudes encouraging this form of deception? Implausible though it may seem, we may be led to an answer by Indian cinema, since it gives us all kinds of clues to common ways of thinking. Some years ago, an Iranian student pointed out that one gets a fair sense of what the US is like by watching Hollywood, but asked why Bollywood gives no similar sense of India at all. I thought awhile and replied that Indian films show you things not as they are, but as they should be. Since then I have been pursuing the idea at some length. Indian films are poorer in observation than films from any other country outside South-Asia. Under global influences Indian cinema may seem to be transforming, but underneath, most things still remain the same. Popular films portray situations and characters in an immediately recognisable way, familiar not from observation but from popular belief, and as ideals. As an instance, few people in real life trust the healthcare industry, but popular cinema is yet to portray a doctor as useless. There is scarcely a film in which someone who gets medical treatment in time still succumbs to illness unless it is first denoted as incurable. Hollywood appears similar but it denotes only some doctors as good, while in Hindi cinema all doctors and hospitals are generally good unless (as in Andhadhun) the clinic is shown doing nefarious work. The reason doctors are portrayed thus owes to Western medicine having been an emblem of good modernity since the 50s. There are other comparable aspects, such as the way a characters innate qualities can be grasped virtually at first glance in any film, so little are the prospects of more than one characteristic being present. Characters, whether good or bad, are made emblems of the qualities. In 3 Idiots, for instance, a film with a view of education that some people found alarming, Rancho is a genius wanting knowledge, but we never see him actually studying. How does Rancho know so much without opening a textbook? The reason is that studying textbooks and genius are considered incompatible, since knowledge comes from within. Rancho being an emblem of genius equips him in advance with knowledge, hence necessitating no learning. Even in the seemingly realistic film Gangs of Wasseypur things are not differently conceived; grandfather and grandson meet the same arms dealer in the same Varanasi hotel room when each of them is around the same age, and in similar circumstances. Estimating that the meetings take place about 50 years apart, how does one understand the implausibility of the occurrence? 50 years is an interval in which virtually everything changes, not least of all cities and people. The explanation is that hotel room and arms dealer are emblems in the film and do not find correspondence in lived experience where actual arms dealers and hotel rooms in Varanasi can be limitless in their variety. Similarly, the fabulously rich Indians from films who spend money lavishly in Europe are emblems corresponding to the urban Indians national self-image in the global age, which has no basis in observed Indian lifestyles. A middle-class Indian would need to spend a whole years earnings for a two-week family holiday in Europe. Earlier in these columns I noted that Indian cinema has, with some exceptions, eschewed mimesis. To illustrate what mimesis means and its significance, I once read a first-person account by a British woman in India caught in the Mutiny of 1857 when she and her people were taking shelter in a barn in the vicinity of Kanpur, even as rebels were on the rampage outside. In her account the writer describes a mouse scurrying around, oblivious of those taking shelter or the mayhem outside. The point here is that this recounting is like mimesis in that it is observing detail without finding it trivial in relation to the momentous experiences covered by the narration. In a narration populated by emblems, such a passing observation could not have been accommodated. The detail, for example, would be completely out of place in todays patriotic films. In most films whatever details are put in only further the central message, whether patriotic or otherwise. But such a narrative strategy in popular cinema, dealing with life as ideally conceived, is not of its own devising. Classical Indian theatre, for instance, proposes mimesis of a special kind, not imitating things in their actuality but in their essence which presupposes the elimination of purposeless observation, not part of the focus of the work. This suppression of observation by idealisation and convention is a characteristic that one frequently encounters in real life in India. If one were to ask at what hour someone reaches office, the chances are that the hour given will be when they ought to get there, rather than when they actually do. When writing letters or maintaining diaries the scrupulous attention to observed fact is absent in most Indian accounts. William Dalrymple (The White Moghuls) tells of Indians whose children were brought up as Britishers and reproduces the letters of a granddaughter (Kitty Kirkpatrick) to her grandmother (Sharaf un-Nissa); only the granddaughters letter contains observational detail. The grandmothers letter runs on the following lines: Fresh vigour was instilled into my deadened heart and such immeasurable joy was attained by me that it cannot be brought within the compass of being written or recounted. My Child, the Light of my Eyes, the solace of my soul, may God grant you long life! Instead of treating each experience or phenomenon as unique and subjecting it to scrutiny, it is usually viewed as an emblem, and this has repercussions. VS Naipaul (An Area of Darkness) describes how places are cleaned in India by simply dousing them with quantities of water, but eventually leaving them as dirty as they were. One sees this happening all around us SUVs being washed furiously on pavements, even as the wet kitchen waste in plastic bags are lying unnoticed for days beside them. My sense is that water is an emblem of cleanliness, which explains both its wastage and the inability of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to inculcate anything like a sense of cleanliness in the public. Cleanliness is also a personal attribute (rather than a civic one), which is why people spit on the pavement to keep themselves clean. Politics leaders are adored or hated as emblems, and rarely does actual observation play a part in their evaluation; new information does not tilt the electoral balance. Returning to the conditions prevailing in the workplace, the primary acknowledgement that needs to be made in the global age is that the relationship between employee and employer is entirely transactional; being employed only entails doing the entrusted work within specified hours. Being the employee of an organisation does not define the total person, which means that outside the hours when he/she is required to be working, he/she is free to live a private life that the organisation, by and large, will have no jurisdiction over. But this will imply defining the work required of an employee precisely just as every cog in a wheel must have its shape carefully designed restricting unplanned demands. I am not sure that such a situation prevails in India, where demands of loyalty are primarily made. At one time, the public sector, by providing housing, medical care and schooling to employees families, tried to become the emblem of benefactor; memories of the employer-as-benefactor may still be continuing. There is, even today, enormous rhetoric among various kinds of employers insisting that the employer-employee relationship is sacrosanct, perhaps like that of vassal and lord. Once the employer-employee relationship is clouded over by the rhetoric of personal loyalty, judgements are affected. A principal requirement in ensuring productivity is that superiors must be able to judge dispassionately. Judgement of performance implies clear-eyed observation, but when the rhetoric is one of loyalty, it translates swiftly into personal devotion to superiors. Over time, it may be conjectured, employees are encouraged to imitate the behaviour that is rewarded and gradually turn themselves into emblems of diligence, loyalty and commitment by staying overly late in the office, maintaining personal relationships with superiors and repeating the rhetoric they hear around them. Since personal loyalty, which is an emotional issue, is more attractive than dry efficiency at tasks, there could be pressure within organisations to leave tasks ill-defined so rewards can be handed out at will. Popular cinema, as I proposed, conceals an enormous amount of truth, because it deals with ideals rather than observed reality. I will stretch this to say that the tendency in all kinds of communication in India is to conceal factual information requiring disinterested observation and compensate with idealised sentiments. The evidence that working conditions in Indian workplaces are unhappy even when productivity is low should have rung alarm bells if the information had got out effectively, initiated an inquiry into business and industry conditions. But we live in a milieu in which observation has been suppressed for eons because of a belief in a greater reality, and we are still living with ideals and emblems. Being clear-eyed in India takes a great deal of effort that few people are able to make. MK Raghavendra is a film scholar and author of seven books including The Oxford India Short Introduction to Bollywood (2016) The earliest memory Dharavi resident Prabhakar Zanke has of the Kala Qilla (black fort) is of him swiftly climbing up the fort and jumping into the Mithi river below. His father had been chasing him with a stick for having failed his Class I exams, and eight-year-old Zanke knew no other way to escape his wrath. This story still makes the rounds in the neighbourhood that has since developed around the erstwhile fort in Dharavi. Back in 1958, Zankes supposed heroism was not just applauded by the other children in the area, but it also inspired a threat that could be made, whenever their parents scolded them for failing. But this is just one story among many that emerged from inside and around the Kala Qilla, a forgotten remnant of history that lies hidden deep inside one of Asias largest slums. [The road to Kala Qilla] Kala Qilla, also referred to as the Riwa Fort by some, is situated at the far end of a narrow lane at Mumbais Dharavi Depot Road. The shabby street leading to it is characterised by the cacophony of children playing, as the elderly watch over them from the windows of their tiny, colourful hutments. The afternoon sun casts a harsh glow on the fort, exposing the many cracks in its walls that have developed over time. To understand Kala Qillas history and significance, it is important to revisit the Bombay of the 18th century, when it was formed of seven islands. The Mithi river (Mahim Creek) separated the British-controlled Bombay from Salsette, which was under Portuguese rule. When it was captured by the Maratha empire in 1737, John Horne, the governor of Bombay at the time, commissioned the building of the Kala Qilla at Dharavi, which was then the northernmost frontier of Bombay. [The area around in Dharavi is referred to by the fort's name] The fort was built in the shape of a boomerang and served as a watchtower to protect the city from the Maratha seafarers. Today, what remains of the fort are just four dilapidated walls held together by a grassy patch of land. In fact, no one would even know it is a fort, if it wasnt for an inscription on a wall detailing when it was built. While its boomerang shape is still visible, the Mithi river flowing below has been filled up to make the Dharavi bus depot. The only access to the fort is through the pile of gunny bags placed against the walls by the slum dwellers. [Perhaps the only available historical information at the fort is this inscription] The fort has been strategically built in a way that it has no entrance. The British soldiers carried a ladder with them. The fort is also supposed to have escape tunnels to the Mahim and Sion forts, but this has never been verified, says city historian Rajan Jaykar. [There is no easy way to climb the fort. One needs to climb over these gunny bags, and then push themselves up] But the local community that has spent decades exploring its premises disagrees. There is a tunnel here that only leads to a small 10x10 room, which was built for the soldiers to hide in or take refuge in during the rain, adds Zanke. Ganesh, a 37-year-old resident, agrees with him. Recalling a memory from his childhood, he narrates how they once set up a small TV inside that room by stealing a cable connection. One of my friends suffered an electric shock, he says with a chuckle. Incidents like these gave rise to many more legends. One was about the Killa Baba, a ghost that galloped about on a horse to kidnap children who had been up to mischief on the fort. Most people at the Kala Qilla area laugh it off as a tale created by elderly women to scare children, but Ganesh claims to have heard the gallop of a horse at the fort on several nights. But the memory that most residents of this neighbourhood hold dear is that of climbing up the fort, every weekend to watch the movie being played at the Bandra open-air theatre. There were not many buildings back then, and neither was there much noise. Given the height of the fort we got an uninterrupted view of the film for free, recounts 34-year-old Kirmani with a glint in his eyes. We have watched so many movies, such as Sholay, Jahangir, Qayamat, say residents Vaibhav and Javed. [Prabhakar Zanke has many memories attached to the fort. He actively rallies to protect this heritage site] As I see these groups of men gazing up at the fort, engaged in nonchalant chatter about their memories of Kala Qilla, it is evident how the fort has been integral in sustaining their friendships over the years. We all grew up playing at this fort. Religion, caste was never a barrier to friendship. It still isnt, says Kirmani, explicitly stating how none of the families here attacked each other during the unfortunate communal riots of 1992. Though the forts tunnel has been filled up with mud and dirt now and is no longer visible, Kala Qilla continues to serve as a playground to children in a congested city that has hardly any open spaces left. Suhan, 11, who lives just behind the fort says he feels lucky, since most of his classmates have to travel to find a park. We play hide and seek here every day. Sometimes, we even play pretend-war and capture the fort, he says with a giggle. [Ganesh often comes to the fort to catch a quick, quiet nap] The grown-ups too, often come up to the fort for a chat or to steal a quiet nap. Most women in the area feel hesitant to climb up and do so only during festivities. Up until a few years ago, Kala Qilla was one of the spaces in the city that was witness to flag hoisting on Independence Day, but after a climbing accident, the practice was discontinued. Earlier, the fort was different. This area was low-lying, making the climb higher and steeper. The fort had tall grass and the river lashed on its ramparts. The slum around the fort only developed in the 60s when a coal factory was set up nearby. The area has never seen high flooding. The fort has survived over centuries under rain and harsh summers, but the walls are starting to crack slightly. We are trying to protect whatever is left of it, asserts Zanke. The 68-year-old is respected in the Kala Qilla area, as a walking treasure trove of knowledge about the fort and Dharavi. He has served as a guide to many tourists, researchers and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials. His efforts to rally the cause for the fort's preservation have not just been recognised by NGOs, but have also been supported by the other community members who continue doing their bit towards this endeavour. [The fort premises; the local community often cleans it] Kirmani and his family, whose room is right adjacent to the fort, make sure that its premises dont become a hub for drunks and that no migrants stay there. They often come up and clean the fort grounds, which had once turned into a place where people relieved themselves, but this problem ceased to exist once public toilets were built. The effort of the local community to maintain the fort should certainly be lauded, but its condition is such that it requires proper restoration. Tejas Garge, director, Directorate of Museums and Archaeology, Maharashtra says, Kala Qilla in Dharavi has great potential. We have submitted a proposal just last week to the ministry to carry out restoration activities that include putting up encroachments, widening the roads, carrying repairs and cleaning the premises. When asked why the project had been delayed for so long, he stated the unavailability of funds and low priority as the reason. Though encroachment and restoration are required, it may possibly result in the rehabilitation of slum dwellers. Most dont seem to mind. It will bring a better quality of life to us and the fort, adds Kirmani. However, their desire is to stay close to the fort, just like Zanke, who was moved to a nearby building as part of a slum rehabilitation programme, several years ago. [Javed, Kirmanis brother, often encourages his wife Zeenat to try climbing the fort, but she has always been scared] Architect Preeti Goel Sanghi who works with the JSW Group and has helped restore several monuments in the country feels that the communitys involvement in the project can be fruitful. Their sentiments and association to the fort are much stronger than any one of us. After restoration, they should be employed to look after its maintenance and protect the forts legacy, she states. Kala Qilla, though lesser known than most of Mumbai's forts, forms an important part of the fabric of Mumbai and its character, and the local communities have maintained its legacy in their own unique way. It may be invisible to outsiders, but is special to those who take pride in having lived and grown up around an important piece of heritage. All photographs courtesy of the author The saffron party is not only reaching out to the northeasterners who are registered as voters in the national capital but also the ones who are not registered voters in Delhi. New Delhi: Even as the national capital readies itself up for Prime Minister Narendra Modis rally to be held on 8 May, the state committee of the BJP aims at mobilising northeastern folks living in Delhi for the partys campaign. People from North East India constitute a population of more than 5 lakh in the national capital and more than 2.5 lakh among them have their votes in Delhi. We have been reaching out to them over the last few months with the BJPs achievements in their home states and inspiring them to campaign for the party, said Manas Deka, coordinator in the North East cell of the saffron partys Delhi state office. Significantly, migrant workers, students and professionals constitute a major chunk of northeastern population in Delhi. A vast majority of this populace lives in a well-knit society in the national capital. In the Delhi University student body elections, we see that northeastern students constituted up to 15 percent of the electorates. They often vote in blocks for a candidate and ensure his or her victory. I hope that the same would happen in Lok Sabha polls in Delhi too, while addressing a house packed of party workers from North East India in Delhi BJP office, Kiren Rijiju Minister of State Home Affairs said on Monday. Rijiju, who is a Member of Parliament from Arunachal Pradesh, is also a Delhi University alumnus. The northeasterners eager to campaign for the party would be handed out booklets about the partys achievements across India and would be asked to convince people to vote for it in Delhi informed a party worker. The saffron party is not only reaching out to the northeasterners who are registered as voters in the national capital but also the ones who are not registered voters in Delhi. The basic idea is to inspire the northeasterners with votes in Delhi to vote for the BJP. We hope that the northeasterners who do not have votes in Delhi would campaign for the party reach out to the people in Delhi and convey the BJPs achievement in creating an inclusive India, said Ram Lal National General Secretary of the BJP. Interestingly, the Congress and the AAP narrative in the national capital city questions the BJPs credentials as an inclusive party. The saffron party seems to make an attempt to counter this narrative by incorporating the northeasterners in its Delhi campaign. The North East had the image of being the most neglected region in India. But the BJP in the last five years has made issues in the region an integral part of the party's national narrative to appear inclusive. Leaders in Delhi BJP hope that at least 50,000 people, who have their origins in the North East, will crowd in Modis rally to be held in Ram Leela ground at 5 pm on 8 May. Vehicles are arranged across Delhi to commute them to Ram Leela ground on that day. In recent times the BJP has attained unprecedented success in winning the elections in the northeastern region. In 2016, the party vowed to make the eight states of the region free from Congress rule and made it a reality within two and half years flat by installing either a BJP government or that of the allies in each of the eight states. The relationship between the northeasterners and that of the BJP has turned cosier. We are trying to exploit this relationship in the capital city in this election, said a source in the BJP. Anyone who has observed northeastern politics knows that the region has a history of issue and agenda based politics. The BJP has aligned itself with most of the issues and agendas despite the ideological underpinnings. BJP seems to be attempting to connect to the northeasterners living in Delhi who are deeply rooted in their culture and politics. One of the major issues faced by the people of the North East was its physical and psychological distance from the Centre. This was identified as one of the major causes of the rise of militancy in the region. The distance was done away with by the BJP ruled Centre by drastically increasing the frequency of visits made by Union Ministers to the region. Soon after BJP came to power at the Centre the prime minister passed an order to the cabinet colleagues to visit the region at least once in every fortnight. The saffron party in the last few days has organised a series of meets with the people of the North East in its Delhi state office. In a meeting organised on Monday, Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Pema Khandu and Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal met the party workers in Delhi. While speaking to them Khandu said, In the last four years, Union ministers visited Arunachal Pradesh 130 times. Prior to the Modi regime, Arunachal Pradesh hardly received around 50 VIPs since the state was formed in the year 1987. He also said that the Union ministers not only visited the place but also met people and the local ministers to pace up projects and solve issues. Speaking to the party workers Rijiju said, The frequent visit of Union ministers helped erosion of the sense of alienation among the people and thus drop in militancy. Apart from the issues in the northeastern region, the BJP also has an agenda to see the region as the hub of Indias trade with South East Asia. The BJP finds this dream handy to sell among northeasterners in Delhi. During the Modi regime, the Guwahati airport became the fifth busiest airport in India. If Prime Minister Narendra Modi gets a second chance North East will certainly be turned into a hub of international trade, said Sonowal. Rahul Gandhi on more than one occasion claimed that Supreme Court in the Rafale judgment had concluded that Chowkidar Chor Hai to mean that Supreme Court had found Narendra Modi guilty of corruption. During elections, tall claims are made by political leaders and opponents are targeted with statements that are made "in a rhetoric flourish. The battle of words is fought on dusty grounds, amid political chants and sloganeering. Occasionally these electoral fights are taken to courts for adjudication. However, this general election is witnessing a departure from this rule as political street fights which are much obvious outcome of election campaignsare being taken for judicial intervention, with a frequency that it is becoming a routine laden with boredom. The catalyst of this shift is the Congress. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court disposed of the petition filed by Congress MP Sushmita Dev against the alleged inaction by Election Commission in relation to an alleged violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party national president Amit Shah. Following Devs plea (filed on 29 April) the Supreme Court directed Election Commission to decide on the complaints of violation of MCC by Modi and Shah. After going through the complaints, the Election Commission gave clean chit to Modi and Shah. However, dissatisfied with the Election Commissions decision Dev filed another affidavit challenging Election Commissions decision on the ground of discrimination and arbitrariness. The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to acknowledge the additional affidavit filed by Dev for getting into the merits of the decision made by Election Commission although it allowed Dev to file a fresh petition challenging the Election Commission's decision. Ever since the campaign for Lok Sabha elections has kicked off, Congress has been crying foul and approaching Election Commission alleging the violation of MCC by various BJP leaders. Congress has now filed a fresh complaint with the Election Commission seeking action against Modi (including a ban on his campaigning) for his remarks against former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. Modi, while addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh last week, had said that the life of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's father and former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi had ended as "bhrashtachari number 1 (corrupt number 1). Congress objected to the remark made by Modi as derogatory and false. To buttress its stand, Congress also pointed out that the Delhi High Court gave a clean chit to Rajiv in the Bofors case in 2004. The assertion made by Congress raises only one question. Does it truly believe that facts can matter in different ways for them in comparison to others? Congress partys entire Lok Sabha campaign was based on targeting Modi on alleged irregularities in Rafale deal. Congress' Chowkidar Chor Hai jibe targeting Modi reached to a level where its president Rahul Gandhi could not differentiate facts from fictional rhetoric to the level that he attributed the Chowkidar Chor Hai jibe to the Supreme Court. Rahul on more than one occasion claimed that Supreme Court in the Rafale judgment had concluded that Chowkidar Chor Hai to mean that Supreme Court had found Modi guilty of corruption. Chowkidar Chor Hai campaign by Congress went on for months and it was only after Rahul attributed this jibe to Supreme Court that BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi filed a contempt petition on the Supreme Court. It was under the fear of facing the ire of judiciary that Rahul first expressed regret and when not able to convince the apex court that regret means apology expressed unconditional apology. On Wednesday, Rahul while rendering unconditional apology requested the apex court to close the contempt proceedings. However, Rahuls apology has not dissuaded him or his party members from using his Chowkidar Chor Hai jibe in political campaigns. It is perplexing that the same Congress that has rested its entire campaign on some unsubstantiated allegations against his prime opponent is crying foul when one of his leaders is targeted for the same. In an affidavit filed in the Supreme Court, Rahul said that he attributed the Chowkidar Chor Hai jibe to Supreme Court in a rhetorical flourish in the heat of the moment. He also said that did not have the slightest or remotest intention, desire or even thought process, to bring the court into the political arena. But his party is not shying from dragging every political attack by its opponent to the court arena. The Congress president has not refrained from using twisted facts to score political mileage. Addressing a rally in Bhopal, Rahul said, Narendra Modi Sarkar ne ek kanun banaya hai jisme ek line likhi gayi hai ki adivasiyon ko goli se mara ja sakega." (Narendra Modi government has passed a law in which one line allows the shooting of tribals). As reported by Firstpost, Rahul was referring to the draft of the Indian Forest Act, 2019, which proposes an overhaul of the Indian Forest Act, 1927. The draft law proposes providing indemnity to forest officers using arms to prevent offences. This is in addition to the immunity provided under Section 197 of Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, for certain categories of public servants. Whether intentionally or not, Rahul has been not only making statements in "rhetorical flourish" but also in complete disregard of facts. However, when faced with the mildest of insinuations, which is part of political campaigns, Congress is approaching the Election Commission and the court. By doing so it is forgetting that election battles are fought on ground, not in courtrooms. Calling the Congress Party as a 'Cry Baby' in the elections, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Tuesday said that a tendency has developed among the political parties to excessively allege a violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by their opponents. New Delhi: Calling the Congress Party as a 'Cry Baby' in the elections, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Tuesday said that a tendency has developed among the political parties to excessively allege a violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by their opponents. Taking to Twitter, Jaitley said: "Of late, a tendency has developed amongst the political parties to excessively allege a violation of the MCC by their opponents. In the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, the Congress Party as the 'Cry Baby' of this election, is leading the pack." "The Right to Free Speech does not get suspended or diluted even during elections. Quite to the contrary, elections are the greatest celebration of Indian democracy. The sacrosanct Right of Free Speech has to be fully protected during this period," he said. The Finance Minister said that "the MCC and the Right to Free Speech have to co-exist". "In recent cases, where the PM appealed to the first time voters, no party or candidate was mentioned. In another case, he made a reference to the demographic composition of the new constituency of Congress President. How these speeches are even considered violative of the MCC?" Jaitley tweeted. "Another case relates to the Gandhi Family principle of restrictive free speech. They can call even an honest prime minister a 'Chor.' However, others don't possess this right," he said. The Congress has moved the apex court after the Election Commission had given clean chit to Modi and BJP president Shah for their speeches alleging that it violated the Model Code of Conduct. The Supreme Court will hear the matter on 8 May. The newspaper clipping accusing Modi of being culpable for his father's death is fake as is not backed by factual data and is riddled with inconsistencies and grammatical errors. Lok Sabha Election 2019 Fact-checker: Claim: Newspaper reported that Narendra Modi's family has alleged that he was responsible for his father's death after he stole gold from him at a young age, The report further claimed that Modi's father died of a heart attack due to the same. Fact: FALSE. Modi's family has confirmed that his father died of bone cancer in 1989 and at that time Modi was away on Kailash Mansarovar yatra but came back for the funeral. *** A purported newspaper clipping blaming Narendra Modi for his father's death that has resurfaced on social media amid the Lok Sabha election. The article, published in Hindi (without a date or a byline) is headlined: (Narendra Modis brothers and sister blame him for their fathers death)". The article says that Modis father, Damodardas Mulchand Modi, used to make ends meet by pickpocketing and stealing coal and iron from a railway station where he worked as a tea seller. He traded the stolen items for gold, which, in turn, were stolen by Modi when he was young. His father, unable to cope with his sons actions, suffered a cardiac arrest. The family could not get back the stolen gold despite lodging an FIR and Damodardas subsequently died because the family couldn't afford the medical expenses. The story also claims that former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee suppressed the case and dismissed an FIR against Modi in 1996. The article's snapshot was shared by multiple social media users over various platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp. However, fact-checking website AltNews traced back the article to have been first shared in 2017 by a Congress member named Velaram M Patel on Facebook. The AltNews report says when they contacted Modi's family to verify the claims made in the article, his elder brother Soma Modi said, "My father had bone cancer and died in 1989. He added that the prime minister was at Kailash Mansarovar Yatra at the time. This information was confirmed by Modis younger brother Prahlad Modi to Alt News. This is completely false, he asserted. Our father died in 1989 of bone cancer. Narendra was an RSS pracharak at the time and was home for fathers funeral. According to Modi's biographer Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay's book Narendra Modi: The Man, the Times, Modi left his village and broke away from his family in 1967. He came home for a few hours in 1989 when his father passed away. The book also says that Modi had just returned from his pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar when his father was on his death bed. I gave him sacred water from Mansarovar, the book quotes Modi. It adds that in 1989, when Damodardas passed away, Modi was General Secretary, Organisation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Boom Live has also called the story fake and pointed out that there is no media agency called 'The Delhi News Network' (as mentioned in the dateline of the article) and it is a fictitious name created to lend credence to the fake article. The alleged story accusing Modi of being culpable for his father's death is, thus, fake as is not backed by factual data and is riddled with inconsistencies and grammatical errors. Many sentences in the article do not end with a full-stop but ellipsis, AltNews noted debunking the false story. However, as per Boom Live's report, this was not the first instance of such a claim being made against Modi. In 2016, a fake news clipping of Amar Ujala went viral with Prahlad Modi seemingly quoted as saying, He did not leave to become a monk, Narendra Modi was kicked out of the house for stealing jewelry. Prahlad later clarified that he never gave such a quote to Amar Ujala, while Amar Ujalas editor claimed that his publication never ran an article with such a headline, the report says. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has finally tendered an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court for wrongly attributing the chowkidar chor hai jibe to the apex court. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has finally tendered an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court for wrongly attributing the chowkidar chor hai jibe to the apex court. In the third affidavit since the matter was brought to court, Rahul finally apologised to the Supreme Court for "unintentionally" linking the top court's view in the Rafale review plea to his party's political slogan "chowkidar chor hai" aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He filed the three-page affidavit rendering the "unconditional apology". He also requested the top court to close the contempt proceedings against him based on a petition filed by BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the matter on Friday. Rahul Gandhi tenders unconditional apology to Supreme Court for attributing Chowkidar chor hai remark to SC. @barandbench@RahulGandhi @INCIndia @M_Lekhi pic.twitter.com/OKQx7r1tUG Murali Krishnan (@legaljournalist) May 8, 2019 Rahul's apology comes after the Supreme Court took a firm view against the wording of the previous affidavits filed by him. The court felt that the filed replies made contrasting claims rather than clearly accepting that a mistake has been made. The court allowed Rahul to file a new affidavit on Monday only after Rahul's lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi assured the bench that Rahul would apologise and that the rectified affidavit would contain the word apology. The Congress chief had earlier filed two separate affidavits after the court took a favourable view of BJP leader Meenakshi Lekhi's plea that the incorrect attribution amounted to contempt of court. However, both these documents were worded to say that Rahul had made those comments in the heat of the campaign and 'regretted' the fact that he attributed it to the court.' The court was furious. "You are compelling us to say things now... We refrained from saying anything further on the last date but this is your second affidavit. We never said it.. You attributed the foment to us and now you are trying to justify (sic)?" CJI Ranjan Gogoi said. "We have great difficulty in understanding what you want to say in the affidavit," said the bench, also comprising justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph. Singhvi replied by saying Rahul has already expressed "complete regret" in this regard. However, the court shot down that argument and asked: "Is this how you express regret? Show us where is that complete regret? He claims to be a literate person. But in his affidavit he says, I didn't read or analyse the order when I made this comment. Three hours later, he says it again at a different rally. What kind of regret is he talking about?" The bench also objected to the contradictions within the same affidavit. Though Rahul, through his counsel, admitted he made a mistake by wrongly attributing the remark to the apex court, the Supreme Court observed that he had failed to do so clearly in the written affidavit. "You have contradicted yourself in the affidavit. At one place, you admit your statement but on the other, you deny saying it. If you start arguing on the basis of this affidavit, we won't give you another opportunity to file a better affidavit..." It was then that Singhvi, on behalf of Rahul, apologised. "I say sorry for attributing the chowkidar comment to the Supreme Court," Singhvi said. It was then that the court allowed the Congress president another chance to reword his statement and gave him time till today. The matter will be heard next on 10 May. With inputs from agencies Narendra Modi went at length for over five minutes on abusive name-calling that a number of Congress leaders had used. In December 2007, the Congress leadership believed it was on a high in the then Gujarat Assembly elections and their campaign needed one last strong punch. Due to this misplaced belief, Sonia Gandhi called Narendra Modi, the then chief minister, a maut ka saudagar, and the rest is history. In October 2016, in the run-up to Uttar Pradesh elections, Rahul Gandhi accused Narendra Modi of khoon in dalali in the aftermath of the surgical strikes conducted by the Indian Army at terror camps inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Congress president thought he had pulled a massive punch against Modi at a public rally at the Delhi-UP border to mark the conclusion of his month-long kisan yatra in Indias most populous state. Congress was eventually reduced to a humiliating number of seven seats in 403-member UP Assembly. In December 2017, in the run-up to the Gujarat Assembly elections, senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar called Modi a neech aadmi. On all these occasions, Modi not only swung electoral discourse to his favour but also the final outcome of these elections. He gave an emotive twist on the name-calling against him, taking these adjectives to the peoples court, recalling what names other Congress leaders had used against him and thereby playing both victim and hero. He has great ability to set the agenda, picking up a word or two or a sentence from his political rivals' barbs against him. On Wednesday, a day after Priyanka Gandhi called him 'Duryodhana', Sanjay Nirupam called him 'more cruel than Aurangzeb' and Digvijays Singh called him 'Hitler', Modis characteristic oratorical skills were in full display at a public rally in Kurukshethra in Haryana. He took it to an emotive pitch, saying since he had come home, a place where he in his formative days used to move around freely with a 'jhola (cotton bag)' on his shoulder, he felt like pouring his heart out on the abuses that were heaped on him by Congress. Modi went at length for over five minutes on abusive name-calling that a number of Congress leaders had used against him before and after he became prime minister. He seemed to be going by a smart strategy of his own. After sensing the mood of the crowd, which kept on chanting 'Modi, Modi' through the better part of his speech, the prime minister turned to something entirely unexpected, beginning by responding to Rahul Gandhis oft repeated statement that he and Congress leaders would respond to Modi with love and affection because their party culture had trained them to shower love on political opponents. Its a different matter, of course, that Rahul keeps on repeating his 'Chowkidar chor hai' jibe at Modi and today had to give an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court for claiming that the highest court of the land had endorsed his Modi 'chor' slogan. See what kind of dictionary of love they have, what kind of words are there in their love dictionary and how they shower love on their opponents," he said. He then went on to narrate the abusive names that he was called by senior Congress leaders: Gandi naali ka keeda, gangu teli, pagal kutta, bhasmasur, bandar, virus, Dawood Ibrahim, Hitler, Gaddafi, Mussolini, Tuglaq, Natwarlal, badtameez nalayak beta, rabies bimari se peerit bandar, chooha, lahu purush, asatya ka saudagar, Ravan, saanp, bichhu, ganda admi, jahar bone wala, maut ka saudagar, most stupid PM, neech admi, person whose fathers identity was unknown, nikamma, unpadh, ganwar... and he went on. "They abused my mother by asking who my father was," he said. He asked the crowd to judge on the kind of culture that prevailed in Congress and in its leaders. Without naming Imran Masood, Congress vice president of Uttar Pradesh and its candidate from Saharanpur, Modi said the party had consistently rewarded and given tickets on repeated occasions to "a person who wanted to chop me into pieces". He didnt forget to pull another political punch when he said that the Congress dynasts had not reconciled with a chaiwala becoming prime minister and questioning their corrupt deeds. Part of his strategy was evident from his appeal to social media warriors and smart netizens who may have been present in the audience since the mainstream media wouldnt show and publish what he said about Congress' abusive language of 'love'. Ahead of 2012 Gujarat Assembly election and 2014 parliamentary elections, Modi made best use of social media and made it one of the mainstays of his campaign strategy. It should be noted that in the next round of polling, phase six is in 59 constituencies where BJP has a lot on stake eight seats in Bihar, all ten in Haryana, four in Jharkhand, eight in Madhya Pradesh, 14 in Uttar Pradesh, eight in West Bengal and all seven in Delhi. Though Modi chose not to name Priyanka Gandhi Vadra or respond to her 'Duryodhan' jibe against him, the newly appointed Congress general secretary will probably realise the hard way that she should have learnt from the consequences of mother Sonia and brother Rahul calling Modi names. The gaps that are apparent in Congress presidents logic seem to be affecting the party too. In a recent interview to a TV channel, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi insisted that the elections are over, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lost. One might be tempted to think that being the Congress president it is incumbent on him to boost the partys morale and express conviction even when two phases are left. Rahul, however, seemed utterly convinced of his conclusion. He claimed that the prime minister has lost the countrys trust, is suffering from a time lag and failing to understand that the tide has turned against him. Yet, in the same breath Rahul claimed that Modi is angry, scared and thats why he is going after the Gandhi family and sullying his dead fathers name. The gaps that are apparent in Congress presidents logic seem to be affecting the party too. It is an indication of the way the entire Opposition campaign has gone awry. Increasingly, this nervousness is manifesting itself in myriad ways: most notably in the way BJPs rivals are running to the courts at every drop of a hat. It may have escaped Rahul while he was busy berating the prime minister, that if in his own words Modi is suffering from a time lag and doesnt understand yet that he has lost the countrys trust, then it is natural for Modi to remain (falsely) confident. In that case, why would Modi run scared, become angry or target Gandhi family? Such reactions are borne out of a lack of confidence. This speaks of a fundamental confusion in Rahuls mind. In a party that lacks inner democracy and runs on High Command culture, that confusion seeps through the rank and file. For instance, the Congress suffered a setback at the Supreme Court on Wednesday after the apex court refused to entertain its plea against the Election Commission decision to give clean chits to Modi, precisely because it continues to suffer from a perplexing approach. If the party according to its chief is confident that Modis time is up and he has already lost the election, why on earth is the Grand Old Party putting pressure on the poll panel to ban the prime minister from holding rallies? On Monday, a delegation of senior Congress leaders met the EC and demanded that Modi be banned from holding campaign rallies for sullying the name of Rajiv Gandhi. While addressing the crowd in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday, Modi had said that the former prime ministers life ended as Bhrashtachari No.1 (corrupt No.1) even though he was named as Mr Clean by his courtiers. The Congress delegation that met EC called Modis statement very serious and violative of the law, out of sync with Indian culture and tradition and appealed to the EC to impose an immediate campaigning prohibition on Modi and urged the poll panel to do so within 48 hours. Modi laid the trap and Congress walked right into it. The furore generated by Congress and its extended ecosystem is enough to hand BJPs star campaigner just the issue he needs to sustain attention in a long and tiring election campaign. Modi did not need a second invitation. He threw an open challenge at the Congress via Twitter daring it to fight elections in the name of the former PM associated with Bofors in: Delhi and Punjab, where innocent Sikhs were butchered in his reign. Bhopal, where he helped Warren Anderson flee after the infamous Gas Tragedy. Challenge accepted? Once again, Congress approach has been befuddling. First, it took great umbrage at Modi calling Rajiv corrupt. If that is such a derogatory remark (let us leave the debate over not speaking ill of the dead aside for now) then how does it justify repeatedly calling Modi a chor (thief) through memes and campaign slogans when the Rafale deal has received clean chits from the CAG and Supreme Court? To be sure, Modi rubbed it in. My one comment on the corruption of a former PM has riled the Congress eco-system so much but constant, below the belt remarks on a sitting PM, his family, his poverty have no effect on them! Constant badmouthing of historical greats by one Dynasty doesn't affect them either! pic.twitter.com/mfMWZDJqRN Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 6, 2019 Second, by expressing indignant outrage over the issue and targeting the prime minister for it, Congress ended up playing Modis game. The BJP wants the election to be fought on the PMs personality instead of quotidian issues and the Congress obliged it by seeking to ban Modi: ensuring that headlines and focus remain fixated on the PM. As Delhi University teachers write letters and counter-letters on Modis comments against Rajiv, BJPs purpose is served. This confusion is evident not just in Congress but the entire Oppositions approach. The electronic voting machines (EVMs) debate has been done and dusted, and now looks as the last refuge of the defeated. Each time the Opposition picks up the issue, it betrays a lack of conviction in own performance and a thinly disguised worry that Modis juggernaut is unstoppable. Whats ironic in this debate is that it is the Opposition that is raising a hue and cry against EVMs when studies show that post-EVM elections have, more often than not, thrown out the incumbents. As pollster Yashwant Deshmukh pointed out on Twitter: From 1952 to 1998, we had paper ballots. During this period more than 90% election verdicts were Pro-Incumbent. That means those in power remained in power. After the introduction of #EVM in 1999 till now, almost 90% verdicts have been Anti-Incumbent. Let that sink in. This debate essentially reflects a lack of confidence among the Opposition that it would be able to unseat the Modi-led NDA. In approaching the Supreme Court and demanding verification of 50 percent EVMs using voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) slips, 21 parties (including the Congress) failed to consider the flip side of this strategy: that such desperation reeks of defeatism. A Supreme Court Bench led by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi took all of 60 seconds to throw out the petition and cook the goose of a combined Opposition. Undaunted, the Congress tried again: this time moving the Supreme Court against supposed inaction by the EC in acting against Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. In her plea, Congress MP from Silchar, Sushmita Dev alleged that Modi and Shah are delivering hate speeches and using the army for propaganda. The plea accuses the EC of inaction on complaints against top BJP leaders and terms it a a sign of invidious discrimination and arbitrary, capricious and impermissible as it ostensibly has a deleterious effect on the integrity of electoral process. The interesting thing is, while the Congress moved the SC against ECs supposed inaction, the poll panel has already considered the complaints and has given Modi the all clear. The Supreme Court refusing to entertain the plea and to go into the merits of ECs decision of the clean chits to Modi already made the plea infructuous. We dont see how we can go into the orders of the Election Commission unless a specific challenge is made, CJI Gogoi was quoted saying. Two more points are worth noting from this episode. One, the Congress believes that elections can be won in the courts by filing pleas and review petitions. Two, the tendency to cry foul over Modis every campaign comment reflects the same lack of confidence that manifests itself in the debate over EVMs. Model Code of Conduct cannot overrule Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution that gives every citizen the Right to Free Speech subject to certain restrictions. Instead of seeking to silence Modis voice, Congress should try to counter his arguments. It is a little disappointing that the Grand Old Party seems to have already thrown in the towel with two phases still to go. What has made Narendra Modi's Kisan Samman Nidhi for farmers more electorally promising in Uttar Pradesh than the Congress' NYAY scheme is that the state government delivered it well, expanding the definition of a farmer. When Piyush Goyal presented the Interim Budget in Parliament on 1 February, he had announced the Kisan Samman Nidhi, under which the government had proposed to give Rs 6,000 per annum to farmers who own less than five acres. Many believed this was a political master stroke by the Modi government in the fag end of its current tenure. However, there was also scepticism about whether it would yield the desired electoral dividends, particularly in view of the Congress' NYAY scheme, which proposes to give Rs 6,000 a month, Rs 72,000 a year and Rs 3.60 lakh in five years to five crore poor families. On the face of it, the Grand Old Party's scheme appeared to be far more lucrative, far more populist and far more beneficial from the political perspective, with a better chance of having voters' preference. It was hailed to be a game changer. With voting in five phases of the Lok Sabha election completed, this writer, after extensive travel across the politically critical state of Uttar Pradesh, found that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheme for farmers and its two installments of Rs 4,000 already credited to the accounts of over one crore people is proving to be the real game changer. There are hardly any takers for the Congress' "Ab Hoga Nyay" campaign phrase, which has simply not registered in voters' minds, at least in this part of the country. People have either not heard the party's promise for 'nyay' or are not willing to give it any credence. By travelling to Uttar Pradesh's rural areas, one can get a sense that the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna has had a bigger impact on voters than any of the schemes the Modi government launched and delivered in the past five years. It was not difficult to assess why this scheme resonated the most in the minds of the rural people. For one, it came with other developmental deliverables initiated since 2014. By the time the first and second installments of Rs 2,000 each were credited to farmers' Jan Dhan accounts, a large section of people had already started believing in the prime minister's sincerity and ability to deliver. It meant a great deal to farmers, more so among the poorer farmers. Also, it was this money that the Congress had earlier described as bribes that reached their accounts in the run-up to the polls. It's all fresh on their minds. Take Ramanand Pasi, for instance. A Dalit who lives near Pichhoda village in Amethi, he has turned into a hardcore Modi and BJP supporter. Listing out how he benefited from government schemes, he says got a pucca house, electricity connection and gas cylinder, but what made him really happy was the Rs 4,000 he got in his account. Pasi's is not an isolated example. This reporter met several such people belonging to various castes from varied layers of the social strata in the rural areas of Bhagpat, Ghaziabad, Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Bijnor, Kannauj, Amethi, Sultanpur, Barabanki, Prayagraj, Pratapgarh, Lucknow, Bhadohi, Phulpur, Jaunpur and Ghazipur. In contrast, the Congress' Rs 72,000 per year NYAY promise has had two types of responses ignorance or dismissal as a misleading mirage during the election. What goes against Rahul, the Congress and this perceived game-changer of a scheme is that not many believe the party and its leader have any realistic chance of forming the government. What has made Modi's Kisan Samman Nidhi even more electorally promising in Uttar Pradesh is that the state government delivered it well, expanding the definition of a farmer to include even people who have a small piece of land, practically nothing beyond their small kuchha-pucca homes, in villages and taluks. Modi has also promised that the two hectare (five acre) ceiling will be removed in the annual Budget the NDA government presents after election. This promise, however, comes with a rider if voted to power. Virus, Bhasmasur, Dawood Ibrahim-equivalent, Hitler, death merchant, rabid monkey, rat, insect these are the terms that, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Congress leaders have associated with him in the past. He made the claim at one of the two rallies in Haryana on Wednesday, with ten Lok Sabha seats of the state set to go to polls on 12 May. Virus, Bhasmasur, Dawood Ibrahim-equivalent, Hitler, death merchant, rabid monkey, rat and insect: these are the terms that, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Congress leaders have associated with him in the past. He made the claim at one of the two rallies in Haryana on Wednesday, with ten Lok Sabha seats of the state set to go to polls on 12 May. "They even abused my mother and even asked who my father is and remember all this was said after I became the prime minister," Modi said. Among the other charges levelled by Modi at the Fatehabad and Kurukshetra rallies were: the Congress recommended Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan's name for the Nobel peace prize, its leaders referred to the Indian Army chief as "galli ka gunda" (goon) and the air force head as a "jhoota" (liar), and the 'mahamilawati' grand alliance were insulting Ramayana and Mahabharata "day and night". He also alleged that the Congress gave tickets to people who talk about "chopping him into pieces." In Kurukshetra, while presenting the list of abuses hurled at him by the Congress, he said, "I know speaking such kind of words from a public platform is not right. Children, too, are listening to my speech, but they should neither learn nor speak such kind of language (used by Congress leaders against him)." In Fatehabad, he lashed out at "shameless" Congress for rewarding those who were involved in the "sins" of 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Referring to Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath, he said, "The person being questioned for his involvement in the riots has been made the Madhya Pradesh chief minister. By doing so, the Congress has made it clear that it does not care about your emotions." Congress leader Jairam Ramesh had called Modi 'Bhasmasur' in 2013, while party's digital head Divya Spandana recently tweeted a photoshopped picture of Hitler to compare him with Modi. But, not all the allegations listed by him are true. For instance, Kamal Nath's links with the 1984 riots have never been established. The Madhya Pradesh chief minister also clarified in December 2018 that there was no FIR or charge sheet filed against him in the matter. At the Wednesday rallies, Modi did mention his government's efforts to designate Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist at the United Nations, and the "free hand" given to armed forces which is letting them strike deep inside Pakistan to kill terrorists among other relevant topics. But they were just that: mentions. The firing of rounds of allegations, emphasis on name-calling and his questioning of Congress' "dictionary of love" show how much the quality of Modi's attacks has changed, in terms of both tonality and content. When the election season had kicked off, Modi mainly targetted the Opposition over issues such as corruption, national security, and terrorism. As days passed, the key issues faded into the background and the prime minister more and more emphasised the Balakot air strike and the 'Bofors-accused' prime minister, a dig at Rajiv Gandhi. With just two weeks left for the counting of votes in the Lok Sabha election, the prime minister has now essentially put the focus on himself. "They insulted me, my family, and my state of poverty. The people are watching and listening everything; they will give Congress a befitting reply," he said. From "abki baar, Modi sarkar" to "fir ek bar, Modi sarkar", one might want to argue that it has always been a one-man show. But, unlike before, Modi is now ensuring that the fight is seen as 'him versus the rest', and not between different parties or ideologies. At the Kurukshetra rally, Modi also said he was unsure about how his words would be interpreted by the press, "because Congress has held sway over most media", and thus, appealed to the gathering to spread the word on social media on the insults he was being subjected to. By expressing this lack of faith in the press, Modi not only contributed to Congress' claim about him being "scared" of press conferences, but also levelled another charge against the media without any data to support it. It is possible that Modi is making the remarks under pressure as he seeks a second term. But being the prime minister of the world's largest democracy, Modi cannot afford to tag all journalists as sell-outs. To repeat Modi's words, people are watching, and if the prime minister doesn't trust the media, then who would? Unfortunately, the war of words is only expected to continue as the nation counts down to 23 May. Until then, all the public can do is vote. Lok Sabha election 2019: Rajasthan Congress president and deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot, who has been travelling across the state, expressed confidence that Congress will do well at the hustings. There is a new optimism in the Congress party and one of the main reasons is that the party's top brass believes their numbers will definitely go up in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Results are expected on 23 May. In an interview with Rashme Sehgal, Rajasthan Congress president and deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot, who has been travelling across the state, expressed confidence that his party will do well at the hustings. Here are the edited excerpt from the interview. *** Q: The Lok Sabha election has seen the level of discourse touch a new low. The kind of exchanges being made by the Congress and the BJP leaders are unprecedented. A: The levels to which political discourse has fallen is a matter of great concern. The narrative being used by the prime minister and others in high positions is unexceptionable. Leaders have to be mindful of the legacy they are leaving behind. The younger generation deserves a political landscape they can be proud of. What Narendra Modi said about Rajiv Gandhi was in very poor taste. Not just the Congress, but leaders across all political parties have condemned his statement. Q: What are your views on Priyanka Gandhis statement that the Congress fielded weak candidates in some constituencies in Uttar Pradesh to cut into the votes of the BJP thereby helping the SP-BSP gathbandhan? A: Priyanka Gandhis statement has been taken out of context. The Opposition, whether it be the Congress or the gatbandhan in Uttar Pradesh, is fighting to make sure that the NDA does not come back to power. Q: There is a perception that after Pulwama terror attack and the Balakot airstrikes, the BJP has successfully used the issue of national security as a poll plank? A: I think this is a very misplaced perception because I am convinced that this is 'bread-and-butter' issue election. People want an end to this endless cycle of farmers suicides. They want gainful employment. The BJP is propagating this (national security issue) because it has just lost the Assembly elections. Dont forget it had 165 out of 200 legislators. It was reduced to 70, which means it lost 95 legislators. We only had 21 legislators five years ago, and we have increased our numbers five times over and brought it to 101. We formed the government just three months ago and people are free to judge us from what we have done in the last three months. I also believe, and this is borne out of statistics, that the incumbent party usually gets the windfall of the Lok Sabha seats. There is a wave in favour of the Congress and we are going to accomplish our target of ''Mission 25'' in Rajasthan (winning all the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state) and the numbers have been very encouraging, not just in Rajasthan, but also in Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh. In all three states, we will witness a complete reversal of 2014 mandate. Click here to follow LIVE updates for LOK SABHA ELECTION 2019 Q: What are the key issues you have been highlighting in your campaign? A: Election campaigns run on issues of governance and economic well being. What does the Modi sarkar have to show for Rajasthan in the last five years? We have had no new airports, no improvement in railways, or infrastructure of any kind and nothing has changed on the ground. The fact is that Vasundhara ji (former chief minister Vasundhara Raje ) and Modi never got along. The rift is so strong that the chief minister has not attended a single rally of the prime minister during this year's campaign. Under these circumstances, what kind of development could you expect in the state? Q: But Congress has been criticised for its alleged promise of waiving farmer's loans and not fulfilling it even after being in power for three months... A: That is not correct. We have already waived farm loans worth Rs 18,000 crore taken from grameen banks and co-operative banks. Regarding loans taken from commercial banks, we have to wait till the elections are over. Negotiations are on with the Ministry of Finance but their officers point out that till such time as the model code of conduct is in play, the waiver will have to wait. We are working on it. We are also giving an unemployment allowance of Rs 3,500 a month to educated women and Rs 3,000 per month for men. Q: During my travels through Rajasthan during the Assembly elections, issues related to water remained a crucial problem with both farmers and people living in cities. How are you planning to address this problem? A. Water is very important in a desert state like ours. But we need to work on a long term resolution to the water problem and this is something we are working to address. Q: Going back to the issue of national security, Modi, recently in Barmer, claimed that the party will not hesitate to use nuclear weapons. What is your take? A: The BJPs attempt has been to divert people's attention from real issues of livelihood. They are focusing on religion, mandir-masjid or making comments like 'ali and bajrang bali. These are not going to work. It will not get them any political dividends because young Indians are more concerned about agrarian distress, unemployment and the economic slowdown. Today, unemployment is at a 45-year high, a gas cylinder costs Rs 1,000, farmers are committing suicides, the economy is in shambles and demonetisation has crippled the rural economy. Q: You talk about differences between Raje and Modi but differences between Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and you is well-known too. A: These differences have been highly exaggerated. Gehlot ji is the head of the government while I am head of the party organisation. Both of us have worked in tandem to fight these elections and we are confident of winning. The selection of all the candidates across the state has been a unanimous choice between the chief minister and me. Q: We have had minister of state Rajyavardhan Rathore claim that whichever part of India one may go to, there is an undercurrent in favour of the Modi government. What do you have to say about it? A: The situation in 2019 is completely different from 2014 when people were willing to give a chance to the BJP. Five years ago, Modi's claims were untested and unverified. But today, the BJP has fulfilled zero promises whether it be regarding black money, education or doubling farm income. I would also like to emphasise that in a parliamentary democracy, the representative selected in every constituency plays an extremely important role because he/she is the face of the party in that area. Today, how many BJP supporters know who their representative? Very few. This is because their performance and calibre leave much to be desired but this is not the way a democracy works. Q: How many rallies have you address in the last month? A: I have addressed 140 rallies in all. In each of these rallies, I have focused on the resolution of the agrarian crisis and on issues of unemployment. Modi has promised to give Rs 6,000 per year to the farming community. But we in the Congress party are promising Rs 6,000 every month to the 20 percent poorest families of the country. When we launched MGNREGA, the BJP scorned at this program. Even the current government used to make fun of the scheme but did not have the political will to end that programme. As Minister of Panchayati Raj in Rajasthan, I must tell you that in December ( prior to state elections) we had nine lakh people working in MGNREGA but the number has increased to 32 lakh in the span of two months. Q: There are doubts that Congress may not even cross 100 seats? A: I am confident that UPA-III will be a reality. On May 23, you will have a new government and a new Prime Minister. tech2 News Staff At the Google I/O 2019, we saw several Android Q updates being announced, along with the news of the new Android iteration moving into the Beta version of its development cycle. As part of the said announcements, Google also said that the Android Q Beta 3 will now be available on 15 partner devices from 12 different OEMs thats twice as many devices as last year! This is officially the largest swath of devices yet to receive Android beta software, which also gives us hope that Android Q may just be available to a wider range of devices by end of this year. The update will be available for the original Google Pixel, Pixel 2, and the Pixel 3. Besides them, heres a full list of non-Google devices that will also get the Android Q beta update: Android Q's beta update will a new dark theme that activates across the operating system, new iPhone-like gestures, Smart Reply and smart suggestion integration, and more. You can read about everything new that's coming to Android Q here. (Also read: Google I/O 2019: Security, privacy, inclusive AI were defining themes of the keynote) via GIPHY How do I download the beta version on my phone? It's easy! If you are a Pixel phone user, you can enroll here and you will receive the update over-the-air. In case you have already enrolled, you'll receive the update soon, and, no action is needed on your part. If you are using one of the eligible non-Google phones, you can head to Android Developer website here, scroll down to find your phone in the list, and click on 'Get the Beta' to begin the process. Once you have enrolled, you will receive the update over-the-air. Notably, Android Q is likely more stable but you may still encounter some serious bugs while testing the beta. This software is primarily meant for developers to test out their apps, but you can still have some fun with it. But be warned that it is not such a great idea to run the beta on your primary device on which you rely on for calls and text messages. Read our complete coverage of Google I/O 2019: Google I/O 2019: All you need to know about the new features coming to Android Q Google I/O 2019: Live Caption lets you overlay text on any audio or video content Google's next-gen voice assistant is kinda epic, and it's coming to the Pixel 4 this year Pixel 3a vs Pixel 3a XL vs OnePlus 6T vs Honor View 20: 'Mid range' phones face budget flagships Google Pixel 3a XL review: A practical smartphone thats out to challenge OnePlus Google Pixel 3a and 3a XL announced at Rs 39,999 and Rs 44,999 respectively, 15 May availability tech2 News Staff Google's focus on Indian market has brought another feature for people who use different vernacular in the country. Google is apparently bringing real-time vernacular language translation to e-commerce websites in India starting with Xiaomi's mi.com. This was announced my Xiaomi India head Manu Kumar Jain in a tweet that he posted earlier on Wednesday. Essentially, with this feature, Google Assistant will translate any website you surf in real-time into your preferred language. In the attached video below, you can see how Google Assistant is automatically showing a translated format of every query on websites onto an overlayed pop-up. It is still unclear what all Indian languages the feature will support. #Xiaomi & @Google are working to bring real-time vernacular language translation for ecom sites in #India Soon you'll be able to use https://t.co/pMj1r7lwp8 - India's 3rd largest online shopping site in your native language! #io19 What is your native language? Mine is Hindi. pic.twitter.com/EYpIBBNTGb Manu Kumar Jain (@manukumarjain) May 8, 2019 Another India-centric feature that Google has announced at the I/O 2019 is the integration of Google Lens and Live Translation to Google Go. This will allow users to point their camera at a wall of text, and Lens will automatically start reading the text out loud. Google says the feature will support translations in 14 languages. This means that Google Go users will soon be able to use Lens to translate text in real-time in almost a dozen languages. Live translation is rolling out to Google Go users later this month. The same feature will also be rolling out to the full-fledged search app later. Reuters Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou is set to appear in a Canadian court on Wednesday to begin what is expected to be a long legal battle against the United States request that she be extradited to face fraud charges. The largely procedural hearing is the latest development in a case that has escalated tensions between China and both the United States and Canada. Meng, 47, the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltds billionaire founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at Vancouvers airport in December on a U.S. warrant and is fighting extradition on fraud charges that she misled global banks about Huaweis relationship with a company operating in Iran. At Wednesdays 10 a.m. (1700 GMT) hearing before Justice Heather Holmes of the British Columbia Supreme Court, Mengs lawyers are set to discuss motions they plan to bring, according to Daniel Coles, a lawyer who acted on behalf of media companies to oppose an initial publication ban on the case. Nothing substantive is expected to be decided, Coles said. But the hearing could indicate how the legal battle will unfold, which some lawyers expect to take more than two years. Mengs case has attracted global attention and sparked a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Ottawa. China has repeatedly demanded Mengs release. In recent weeks, China has upped the pressure on Canada and halted Canadian canola imports and suspended the permits of two major pork producers. Chinese police also detained two Canadian citizens after Mengs arrest. Meanwhile, a second Huawei Canada executive has the left the company, Reuters reported on Tuesday. Coles said he expects pre-hearing motions relating to disclosure of documents and perhaps the seizure of Mengs electronic devices, including a computer, iPad and cellphones, when she was detained on December 1. Lawyers for Meng and spokesmen for the U.S. Department of Justice and Huawei all declined to comment ahead of the hearing. Its going to be the start of a long series of procedural wrangling, said Vancouver lawyer Gary Botting, who said he was initially consulted by the Meng defense team but is no longer involved in the case. It will go on for at least two years, he said, and with appeals could extend to a decade. Botting said Mengs lawyers would want more disclosure about the case, including what happened when Meng was arrested at Vancouver airport on Dec. 1 and whether the authorities breached her rights when she was detained when she landed there en route to Mexico. Meng, who was released from jail in December on $7.5 million bail and must wear a GPS tracker, an ankle bracelet and pay for security guards, has been living in a Vancouver home valued at C$5.6 million in 2017. South Africa: Pandor urges youth to go vote in their numbers Higher Education Minister Naledi Pandor says she hopes young people will come out in their numbers to vote today in order to determine the future of South Africa. Pandor said this shortly after casting her vote at the Claremont Primary School on Wednesday morning. Should the ANC get a majority on Saturday, with the results being announced, I will just be an ordinary MP. But I am hoping that today, we will see a majority of students who are registered coming out to vote. I know some are writing tests, they are studying exams start next week but Im hoping the youth will show South Africa that indeed they want to have a stake in determining who governs our country, she said. While voting stations around the country allowed people in to vote at 7am, Pandor was among the first few Claremont residents who queued up outside the entrance a few minutes before the Claremont station opened. Despite the early morning drizzle, residents patiently stood in the line with their umbrellas and raincoats until they were allowed in by IEC volunteers. Another resident, Findlay Peake, said it was important to vote as the countrys future lay in the hands of those making their mark today. Our future lies in the hands of the people that are making their mark this morning. It is important that we focus and that we do the right thing for all of us, he said. Another local resident, who identified herself as Katharine, said everybody should get out of their houses and go vote. It is important to vote if you want things in life and things in the country that are the best for your country, she said. Ahead of casting her vote, Pandor said it is vital that all citizens that are registered to vote participate in strengthening the countrys democracy, and that it is important that any government that is elected into office is voted in by the majority of all South Africans. I think participating in elections is a critically important part of deciding what it is we want to see done in the country, who you wish to govern and the kind of perspective you would like our country to adopt as its development trajectory. You, by voting, shape the future of South Africa so I think not to vote is irresponsible. If you have the right to vote, which is a hard-won right, but it is an important determinant of South Africas future and its policy action, she said. Meanwhile, Patricia De Lille, leader of the Good party, in Cape Town, also cast her vote at Pinelands Primary School this morning. She encouraged people to go out and vote despite the cold and rainy weather. I'm voting early so I can spend the rest of the day helping others get to their stations. Get out your raincoats and umbrellas (orange preferred). Weather doesn't stop good people exercising their rights and opinions. Vote to fix South Africa for good, De Lille said. Former President Kgalema Motlanthe and Gugu Mtshali have also cast their vote in Killarney, Johannesburg. Motlanthe said this was the sixth time he has cast his vote. He is happy there are more parties contesting these elections as it shows faith in the system. Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Mmusi Maimane has also cast his vote at the Presbyterian Church in Dobsenville, Soweto. Casting his vote, the opposition leader said it was important for every registered South African voter to exercise their right and vote. Economic Freedom Fighter Deputy President Floyd Shivambu, who expressed satisfaction at the voter turnout, has also cast his vote at the Moses Kotane Primary School, in Soweto. Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa and his spouse, Dr Tshepo Motsepe, are due to cast their votes at Hitekani Primary School, Chiawelo, Soweto, at 11am. President Ramaphosa spent his early life in Soweto and is registered to vote in Chiawelo. President Ramaphosa has once more encouraged eligible voters to go out in their numbers to participate in the sixth democratic national and provincial elections. Underscoring his message to this effect in the 2019 State of the Nation Address, President Ramaphosa said: As part of our celebration of 25 years of freedom and democracy, this election is an important milestone in our development as a nation and it is our duty as citizens to exercise our hard-won right to determine the direction in which the country moves. Our vote ensures that our democracy remains vibrant and inclusive. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. tech2 News Staff Along with some significant changes announced for the Android Q, at the Google I/O 2019, the company also revealed a pretty significant update to Google's Go. For the uninitiated, Google Go is a lighter search app for low-end phones. It weighs just 5 MB in size and is perfect for phones that have low RAM like the Xiaomi Redmi Go (review), Samsung Galaxy A2 Core, and Nokia 2.1. At the developer conference, Google said that the feature will receive Google Lens integration, which will allow users to point their camera at a wall of text, and Lens will automatically start reading the text out loud. Google also said that the feature will support translations in 14 languages. This means that Google Go users will soon be able to use Lens to translate text in real-time in almost a dozen languages. Even with the translations available instantly on-device, Google says it was able to bring the size of the dataset down to just 100 KB. The feature is particularly useful for those that don't understand a particular language. So if you are travelling abroad, and there is a signboard, you could point your phone's camera at it, and it will read out loud the translation into your preferred language. Live translation is rolling out to Google Go users later this month. The same feature will also be rolling out to the full-fledged search app later. Read our complete coverage of Google I/O 2019: Android Q: OnePlus 6T to Realme 3 Pro, 15 non-Google phones receiving the latest beta Google I/O 2019: All you need to know about the new features coming to Android Q Google I/O 2019: Live Caption lets you overlay text on any audio or video content Google's next-gen voice assistant is kinda epic, and it's coming to the Pixel 4 this year Pixel 3a vs Pixel 3a XL vs OnePlus 6T vs Honor View 20: 'Mid range' phones face budget flagships Google Pixel 3a XL review: A practical smartphone thats out to challenge OnePlus Google Pixel 3a and 3a XL announced at Rs 39,999 and Rs 44,999 respectively, 15 May availability The Nokia 4.2 is an average budget performer meant specifically for those looking for a clean stock Android experience. Since the company's re-entry into India in 2017, HMD Global's Nokia hasn't been very successful in creating a splash in the cut-throat budget smartphone market. The new Nokia 4.2 aims to change that by playing to the company's strength - it's stock Android One experience. Unveiled back at MWC this year, HMD Global went as far as describing the Nokia 4.2 a "mini flagship." While that may be too far fetched a statement, it's still a well-made device with hardware capable enough to handle daily tasks with aplomb. However, with a price tag starting at Rs 10,990, does the phone really merit a purchase solely for the clean, stock software experience it offers? Or is the Nokia 4.2 yet another shot in the dark by HMD Global, in a market dominated by the likes of Xiaomi, Realme, and Samsung? Let's find out. Sturdy plastic build that feels well-suited for single hand use The moment I set my eyes on the Nokia 4.2, it immediately reminded me of the Nokia 6.1 Plus I reviewed back in August 2018. That's because the design's essentially remained unchanged from Nokia's previous generation of smartphones. But that's not really a bad thing. The Nokia 4.2 has a pleasingly premium look and feel, with a glass front and back sandwiching a polycarbonate frame. Give the rear panel a tap and it doesn't sound as premium as more expensive devices, but it still feels dense and well-built for the price. Weighing 161 grams, the rounded corners and curved edges on the Nokia 4.2 makes it easy to hold, and it can be used one-handed without too much of an issue. You do have fairly chubby borders and a sizable chin to talk about but that's somewhat expected given the phone's price. You'll find the volume and power keys on the right of the phone and they're well positioned, keeping in mind where your fingers naturally rest. HMD Global has built a notification light into the power button, giving you a not-so-subtle indication (it does get incredibly bright in the dark) that it might be worth checking your phone. There is another physical button here though, on the left-hand side. This key is a shortcut to the Google Assistant. It is a nice addition but I didn't find myself using it very often. Though that does boil down to how often you'd want to use the voice assistant anyway. You'll be able to pick up the Nokia 4.2 in two colours, a basic black and a striking new hue that Nokia calls Pink Sand. An HD+ display that could have been punchier, brighter Turning our attention to the front of the Nokia 4.2 and you'll be greeted with a 5.71-inch LCD display with a tall, 19:9 aspect ratio and relatively inoffensive teardrop notch cutting into the top of the display. The resolution is HD+ (720 x 1520 pixels) which is acceptable at the price point but it's certainly not the best we've seen in this price range. Colours are accurate and not too saturated but if you do want to change that in the settings, you're out of luck. When compared to the likes of the Redmi Y3 (review) and the Realme 3 (review), the display here does lose out points in terms of overall quality. But unless you're someone who watches a lot of video content on your phone, this won't really bother you that much. The peak brightness levels could also be improved, though it is worth mentioning that viewing text on display under direct sunlight isn't much of a struggle. Pleasing overall performance but gamers look away HMD Global's opted to use Qualcomm's new 12 nm octa-core Snapdragon 439 chipset on the Nokia 4.2, which may not look great on paper when compared to phones with Snapdragon 600 series chips, but actually holds up quite well for regular use. We had the 3 GB RAM unit with us and the phone handled tasks like browsing through social media content, web-browsing, and casual video-streaming without a hiccup. Switching between common apps like Facebook, Twitter, Slack, and WhatsApp were a non-issue, the phone being able to hold each of these apps in memory every time they were left open in the background. PUBG Mobile or Asphalt 9 lovers won't be very happy with the Nokia 4.2 though. You will get playable frame rates at the lowest graphics settings here, but if playing 3D games is something you see yourself doing on a regular basis, there are better options out there. Superlative stock Android experience on a budget device Running stock Android, the user experience was a breath of fresh air without bloatware (and ads, *cough*) like most smartphones in this segment usually offer. The interface feels fluid and you get all the same features you would on any Android One device. HMD Global appears to have further tinkered with the duration of certain animations which also goes a certain way in making the experience feel more fluid. You do lack the customisations that an interface like Xiaomi's MIUI or Realme's ColorOS has to offer, but if a vanilla Android experience is what you're looking for on a budget, you don't have to look elsewhere. Average overall camera package without any AI gimmicks The Nokia 4.2 with its 13 MP AF + 2 MP FF cameras produces some vibrant photographs and they are more-or-less at par with the likes of the Redmi Y3 and the Realme 3. Shooting landscapes and people in the standard auto mode delivered photos that were sharp. Indoors, the resolved details were a bit low, but the photos remained sharp and colours true to life for the most part. The phone does struggle with highlights though, especially when there's a lot of light. But that holds true only for images where the subject is well lit. In slightly trickier situations, the phone struggles just as much as any other phone in this segment. Images shot in low light did turn out noisy and quite unusable in most cases. But again, at Rs 10,990, there arent a lot of phones which would do better. The same applies to images shot with the Bokeh mode on the phone, which is essentially the portrait mode here. As far as edge detection is concerned though, the Nokia 4.2 does a reasonable job of separating the subject from the background. I would have liked the addition of the Live Focus mode weve seen on earlier Nokia phones as that does let you have more freedom with the level of blur being applied. Video is another area where the Nokia 4.2 does a pretty good job. You are limited to 30 fps 1080p at best here (both front and rear cameras) but the clips do turn out clean, with little to no tearing of frames when youre panning. If I had to nit-pick, Nokia could have added EIS here which is a miss for casual vloggers and TikTok lovers. 3,000 mAh battery thatll last you a day Sporting a 3,000 mAh battery the Nokia 4.2 manages to consistently deliver a day's worth battery life with moderate usage. Going through WhatsApp, Slack, a couple of email accounts on sync, an hour of YouTube, clicking photos and placing a dozen calls, the phone got me through a workday with about 16-18 percent juice to spare. Since you wouldn't be gaming a lot on this device anyway, this should be adequate for a day's use provided you remember to charge the phone every night. What didn't make sense to me though is that HMD Global bundles a paltry 5 Watt charger in the box which takes close to two hours and 40 minutes to juice up the 3,000 mAh battery. I'd suggest investing in a faster charger here as the Snapdragon 439 SoC inside does support up to QuickCharge 3 standards. Verdict and Price in India Considering the phone's Rs 10,990 price tag, the Nokia 4.2 doesn't offer great value for money as a Xiaomi Redmi Y3 or a Realme 3. However, the Nokia 4.2 aims to be targetting a different type of buyer one who'd want to buy a basic budget Android phone sans all the gimmicks. Perhaps even as a secondary device? What you do get here is a stylish premium-feeling no-frills design, decent performance for everyday tasks and a clean Android interface. The Nokia 4.2 is not going to blow you away with impressive speeds or stellar photographs, but as a budget phone, it's seemingly well equipped. For a more hardcore user, I'd suggest you look at Redmi Y3, Realme 3 if you're unwilling to flinch with your budget. But if you are willing to spend 2-3 k more, you do get much more capable budget devices to choose from like the Redmi Note 7 Pro (review) and the Realme 3 Pro (review). The Xiaomi Mi A2 (review) is also a phone you could consider if you're adamant that you want a phone which offers a stock Android One experience. The Mi A2 also offers a far more capable camera performance in comparison. Find latest and upcoming tech gadgets online on Tech2 Gadgets. Get technology news, gadgets reviews & ratings. Popular gadgets including laptop, tablet and mobile specifications, features, prices, comparison. Chirag Dhara Editor's Note: This story was first published on 5 June 2019 and has been republished on account of World Environment Day. Urban India is only too aware of the catastrophic levels of pollution in most cities. The fact that PM2.5 and PM10 pollution have become standard terminology in the media speaks to the public health crisis we face. Particular matter (PM) pollution comprises mineral dust and a fine suspension of solid and liquid particles called sulphate, nitrate and black carbon aerosols. These aerosols form when emissions from vehicular exhaust, fossil fuel and biomass burning react with atmospheric gases and water vapour. Air pollution has exacerbated chronic respiratory diseases and is decreasing our life span. There is no disputing how urgently India and the rest of the world need to clean up. Unfortunately, therein lies a cruel twist. A rapid decontaminating of the air of aerosol pollution assuming it was possible itself raises the prospect of serious consequences for health. The reason: how aerosols interact with climate. Aerosols and climate The eruption of Mt Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991 was one of the largest volcanic eruptions of the century. Global temperatures dropped by an average of 0.5 degrees Celcius over the next 2-3 years before returning to normal. In fact, observations show that global temperatures systematically drop after major volcanic eruptions before returning to normal after a few years. It is also believed that the aftermath of a major nuclear war or an asteroid strike would see a severe and prolonged global cooling because of the large amounts of dust and ash these explosions would kick up into the atmosphere. Why do volcanic eruptions have such a pronounced albeit, temporary effect on the global temperature? The Earths climate is modulated by several processes: physical ones such as rotation, axial tilt and geography, atmospheric composition such as its greenhouse gas content, and atmospheric and oceanic circulation. For all this complexity, the primary power plant energizing the climate system is solar energy. Mt Pinatubos eruption injected 20 million tonnes of sulphur dioxide deep into the stratosphere that went on to form a sulphuric acid aerosol haze because of ensuing atmospheric reactions. In a matter of a few weeks, these aerosols encircled the planet. Aerosols influence climate because they interact directly with solar radiation and modulate how much of it reaches the surface. One category of aerosols are sulphate and nitrate aerosols, which are highly reflective to sunlight. They act as mirrors in the atmosphere reflecting a part of sunlight directly back into space, reducing the amount filtering down to the surface. Also check out: Scientists propose an aerosol sunscreen in the atmosphere to curb global warming Black carbon aerosols (soot) also reduce solar radiation reaching the surface but do so by absorbing a part of it in the atmosphere. While the mechanisms differ, aerosols, in general, tend to shade the Earths surface and cool it. Aerosols are antipyretics for the planet The Earths average surface temperature has risen by about 1C since pre-industrial times. This temperature rise is the net effect of greenhouse warming and aerosol cooling, major modern sources of both being fossil fuel combustion. What is well understood is that anthropogenic aerosol pollution has offset some of the warming because of anthropogenic greenhouse pollution. There is, however, substantial uncertainty about the location and magnitude of aerosol cooling although it is believed that the planets temperature may have risen by as much as an additional 0.5C in the absence of aerosols. Aerosols from anthropogenic sources remain suspended in the lower atmosphere unlike those from violent volcanic eruptions that penetrate deep into the higher levels of the atmosphere. These lower atmosphere aerosols are removed from the atmosphere within a few days or weeks because of natural deposition or by being scrubbed out by rain. Thus, their cooling effect would be rapidly extinguished if they were not replenished by continuous emissions by vehicles and power plants. This makes aerosols the equivalent of antipyretics temporarily reducing the Earths temperature until their effect wears out. Aerosol antipyretic is particularly high over the subcontinent A particularly dense cloud of aerosols hangs over the South Asian subcontinent called the "atmospheric brown cloud". As aerosols are bigger and heavier than greenhouse gas molecules and are emitted continuously from fixed sources, they persist at relatively higher concentrations above and around their emission hotspots. For this reason, we would anticipate that aerosol cooling over India may be substantially larger than the global average. A climate modelling study by R Dileepkumar and coworkers from IITD published in the journal Scientific Reports in 2018 found that the aerosol cooling effect over India in recent decades may be as high as 1 degree Celcius. This means that India has warmed as much as the global average despite a substantially larger aerosol cooling over the subcontinent. Rapid cleanup of Indias air pollution will have consequences on climate It is hard to see whether and if India can find the financial resources and the political will to bring in effective and rapid pollution clean-up norms. For the sake of argument, let us imagine it happens. It is good news for our health that the lower-atmosphere anthropogenic aerosols are rapidly removed from the atmosphere with lower net emission. Unfortunately, this would also rapidly extinguish the high aerosol anti-pyretic effect over India. It is natural to anticipate that this would cause Indias temperature to rapidly spike, one of the biggest problems of which being an even larger spike in the frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves. To reiterate, an increase that would be much more sudden than with a smooth rise in temperature in the absence of air pollution. Health impact of heat waves Extremes, though rare, pose the gravest risks to our lives as evidenced by the thousands that died during the record 2015 heat waves in India and Pakistan. Heat stress impacts children, the elderly and outdoor labourers the most, threatening organ failures and heat strokes. Extreme heat can overwhelm the bodys capacity to regulate its internal temperature and cause it to increase uncontrollably. The failure of the bodys heat coping mechanism for prolonged periods compromises the central nervous and circulatory function. Unchecked by emergency procedures, death can follow within hours. High temperatures also exacerbate respiratory distress. A person with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suddenly breathing in hot air may experience bronchospasm that contracts the airways making it harder to breathe. Also check out: Summers in India are only just beginning, and it's already sizzling are you safe? Heat waves also affect health in indirect ways. Prolonged heat waves in 2018 in Europe devastated crops, sending food prices rocketing. The difficulty in affording quality food can impact our nutrition intake and compromise long-term health. What may be merely a serious inconvenience for the middle classes can become an existential crisis for the poor. Damned if we dont, damned if we do According to the recent State of Global Air 2019 report, Indias air pollution killed 1.2 million in 2017 alone about a third of the population of Goa. The necessity of cleaning up Indias air pollution can scarcely be overstated. Yet, a rapid clean-up would cause temperatures to spike extremely fast, resulting in heat waves and destabilization of local climate, that would, in turn, pose a grave threat to life and health. It would serve us well to recognize that we would not be quite so trapped between a rock and a hard place if we had historically paid greater attention to moderating air pollution. Grave as our situation is, it will only get worse if we continue doing business as usual. Polluting and then (maybe) cleaning up is far different from not polluting in the first place. The author is a climate physicist. Arun Venkatraman India's private space startups seem to be stuck between a rock and a hard place. On the one hand is Indias national space agency ISRO, a behemoth whose contract doles provide vital sustenance to many startups. On the other is the increasingly commercialised side of this very same agency, which has now taken up a new and swanky commercial avatar as NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), a somewhat indirect competitor-cum-contractor to the same startups. Over the past few years, ISROs been involved in just about everything related to space in the country, from launching its heaviest satellite to building its smallest launch vehicle. However, this jack-of-all-trades act from the agency has left Indias space startups wondering where exactly they belong in the industry, particularly since the launch of NSIL in early March. It was no wonder then that there was some amount of palpable tension at last weeks ORF Kalpana Chawla Space Policy Dialogue as government representatives and space-entrepreneurs gathered under the same roof. Looking Beyond ISRO If there's one thing most Indian space startups are on the same page about, it's that their future would have to lie beyond ISRO and not within its influence. However, there was considerable disagreement on how this could be achieved. One of the first to fire a salvo was Honeywell Aerospace President Neelu Khatri, who argued that ISRO's opportunities for smaller players in the space sector are very restricted compared to larger national space programs, stifling the growth of private enterprise in the process. When asked about the possibility of a for-private-by-private ecosystem for the space industry, Khatri, speaking at the sidelines of the event, said, "At this point, it seems very unlikely. Primarily because space is still a pretty unsure bet and startups need a significant amount of handholding, which theyre not getting. I have personally spoken to several bankers and investors who say they would rather put their money in the retail sector than invest in space, despite the promise of big returns." However, if it's support that Indian startups are looking for, there's enough of it to be found if they're open to looking beyond the country's borders, says Tom Segert, German entrepreneur and Director of Berlin Space Technologies. "Startups in other countries such as Germany have a distinct advantage because of access to funding. The key difference is that in Germany or in several other western countries, the universities play a very major and direct role in supporting new ventures, research, and technology." Even if that isn't the case in India, it doesn't mean there isn't a way forward for Indian space startups, Segert adds. "There's no dearth of engineering talent or capability in the space sector in India and the only thing holding them back not looking beyond current opportunities." Segert has been pushing his companys vision of bringing 'Fordism' and mass manufacturing to the satellite industry and believes thats where the future lies for Indian space startups too. "There are already several major companies that are talking about having their own constellations of 100-plus satellites. The day will soon come when big business in India will also have similar requirements." The question then is if Indian startups will be ready for the challenge before then. "It seems rather unlikely if they dont broaden their horizons," he weighs in. Where do the Opportunities Lie? On the other hand, young pioneers like Narayan Prasad of SatSearch argue that there's only one question startups need to ask themselves: if they want to go for the moonshot or the low-hanging fruit. Prasad argues that opportunities for Indian space startups are aplenty at the moment, without even having to look to the future. In fact, he contends that entrepreneurs in India are sitting on a goldmine of opportunities that have little to do with ISRO. "There is no dearth of opportunities if startups look in the right places," Prasad says. "Launching rockets and putting satellites in space is one thing, but it is important to connect it to the opportunities on the ground. There are a number of private arenas where satellite data is vital and extremely useful and thats where Indian startups should be looking," explains the entrepreneur. Citing an example, he says, "Localised satellite data at farm level could be extremely useful for crop insurers when it comes to underwriting risk. One of the main reasons why insurance in agriculture hasnt really taken off is the lack of data. A number of other industries too suffer from the same problem. Satellite technology could plug this essential gap by bringing in high-quality data." Prasad's company SatSearch is already looking at selling such data to insurers on a subscription basis, and he says the demand definitely exists. The Way Forward ISROs commercial exploits might have gotten the startup industry flustered, but Berlin Space Technologies' Tom Segert believes that this push cannot be sustained and the mantle will ultimately fall to the shoulders of private industry. "The key difference to remember is that ISRO is the Indian Space 'Research' Organisation. Services such as manufacturing and providing data for end-user do not come under its mandate. That is why the future of Indian space industry will be private," he argues. While startups in the space sector have already made giant strides in recent years from launching their own satellites to developing new and novel technologies the need of the hour according to industry experts is clarity, of where they stand and what ISRO's needs and ambitions are. With Indias much-awaited space policy on the way, this might just be the shot-in-the-arm the Indian space startups need to finally liftoff. The author is a science writer and student at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences. Though her daughters are believed to have already fled to Canada, Bibi's lawyer Saif ul Malook confirmed to BBC that she has already arrived in Canada, and her daughters are understood to have been granted asylum there. Asia Bibi, the Christian woman at the centre of a decade-long blasphemy row in Pakistan has left the country months after her death sentence was overturned amid mass protests by Islamist hardliners, reports said. Though her daughters are believed to have already fled to Canada, Bibi's lawyer Saif ul Malook confirmed to BBC that she has already arrived in Canada, and her daughters are understood to have been granted asylum there. Her departure, meanwhile, was first reported by Dawn and Geo News citing unnamed official and unofficial sources. Bibi, a labourer from central Punjab province, was first convicted of blasphemy in 2010 for insulting the Prophet Muhammad in a row with her neighbours and was on death row until her acquittal on 31 October, 2018. Her case drew worldwide attention on the extremism and minority persecution in Pakistan where blasphemy is an incendiary issue and carries a maximum death penalty under the country's penal code. According to BBC's report, since 1990, at least 65 people have been killed in Pakistan over claims of blasphemy. Bibi, meanwhile was in protective custody till now after the Pakistan Supreme Court upheld her acquittal in January. She had always maintained her innocence but spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement till she challenged the verdict in October 2014 in the Lahore High Court which upheld the death sentence. Later, the apex court's decision to acquit her had sparked three-day-long mass protests led by the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). A bomb blast, targeted at security forces guarding the Data Darbar Sufi Shrine in Pakistan's Lahore district, has killed at least eight persons, including five police officials, media reports have said. At least 10 persons, including five police personnel, were killed when a suicide bomber blew himself up outside a major Sufi shrine in Pakistan's Lahore on Wednesday as the country marks the fasting month of Ramzan, officials said. It has been claimed by the Hizbul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban. The bomb detonated at 08.45 am (09.15 am IST) outside the gate number 2 of the shrine Data Darbar shrine, targeting a van carrying the Elite Force of Punjab Police, Geo TV quoted Deputy Inspector General, Lahore Police as saying. Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the loss of lives in the attack, expressing grief and condoling with the victims families for their loss. Local channel Geo News further said that at least 25 people were being treated for injuries, some of whom were grievously injured. The condition of four policemen is stated to be critical. Preliminary investigation suggested that the blast could have been carried out by a suicide bomber with the intention to target the police force. The bomb contained seven kilograms of explosive material, Dawn reported. Punjab Law Minister Basharat Raja said that the death toll may rise as some of the injured's condition is critical. "We condemn this cowardly act," he said and also confirmed it was suicide attack. Mayo Hospital Medical Superintendent Yar Muhammad put the death toll to nine. "We have received nine persons, including policemen dead. The condition of six injured is critical and doctors are trying their best to save their lives," he said. Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Arif Nawaz told Dawn that the police was almost certain the target of attack were security personnel because "the attacker could have caused more damage because of the direction he had approached from, but he made a beeline for the police car stationed in the area for protection of the shrine." Wednesday is the second day in the holy month of Ramzan and hundreds of devotees were present in and around the structure. The blast comes at a time when Sufi Islam has been under threat in Sunni-dominated Pakistan for last two decades and there have been several deadly attacks on Sufi shrines across the country. Wednesday's attack comes days after Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan inaugurated a dedicated university to study Sufism in Jhelum district of Punjab province. The facility, known as Al-Qadir University, is named after Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani, an 11th century Sunni Muslim preacher, orator, mystic, theologian and founder of the Qadiriyya order of Sufism. The Data Darbar shrine, one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia that dates back to the 11th century, has been targeted previously, in a 2010 suicide attack that killed more than 40 people. The shrine, which is the burial site of saint Ali Hajveri, has been under heavy security cover since then. In October 2017, at least 18 people were killed in a suicide attack on a Sufi Muslim shrine in Pakistan's southwestern province of Baluchistan. Later, Islamic State said it was behind the attack. In February of the same year, at least 80 people were killed in another attack on a shrine in Sehwan in southern Sindh province. This assault too was later claimed by the so-called Islamic State. Two students opened fire on Tuesday inside a charter school in Colorado in suburban Denver, killing a teenager, wounding eight and spreading terror. Highlands Ranch, Colorado: Two students opened fire on Tuesday inside a charter school in an affluent suburb of Denver not far from Columbine High School, killing a teenager, wounding eight and spreading terror before they were taken into custody, authorities said. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the pair walked into STEM School Highlands Ranch and began shooting students in two classrooms. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriff's department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. "As officers were arriving at the school, they could still hear gunshots," Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said. Authorities identified one of the suspects late on Tuesday as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. Spurlock said the second suspect is a juvenile and that both attended the school. They were not previously known to authorities, he said. "I have to believe that the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives," Spurlock said. Police blocked traffic in a Highlands Ranch neighborhood on Tuesday evening and appeared to be searching a home. Sheriff's officials would not confirm whether the search was connected to the shooting. A message left at a phone number listed for Erickson's home was not immediately returned. The shooting took place exactly a week after a gunman killed two students and wounded four at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. It also comes nearly three weeks after neighboring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about 11 kilometers in adjacent communities south of Denver. "Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence," White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. President Donald Trump had been briefed on the shooting and was in touch with state and local officials, Deere said. "The heart of all Colorado is with the victims and their families," Governor Jared Polis said in a statement. The public charter school that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math has more than 1,850 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. District officials announced Tuesday night that the school would be closed for the remainder of the week, and crisis counselors would be available at a nearby church Wednesday. As the gunfire rang out, students ran through the halls shouting "School shooter!" Some wondered at first if it was a joke or a drill. "At the moment no one really knew what was going on so I didn't know they were bullets," said seventh-grader Sophia Marks. "I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs." Chris Elledge, 15, said his teacher told the class to hide behind weight equipment in the room, where they stayed until police arrived. "They busted in the room, and they were asking if there were any suspects in the room, if we were OK, and they escorted us out to go out to the front of the building," Elledge said. Frantic parents used their cellphones to find their children as news of the shooting spread. Sophia Marks' mother, Sara Marks, said she has two other children who also go to the school. "When you have no idea what's going on and the children are texting you that they're hiding under a desk and bullets are hitting their window, or things are hitting their window, it's a horrible feeling," she said. Rocco DeChalk, who lives near the school, told television station KUSA that he saw so many students running past his house that at first, he thought it was a gym class. He went outside and saw a teenage boy who had been shot in the back being helped by a teacher and another student. They brought the boy into his kitchen and alerted a police officer, who sent for an ambulance. "He made a comment, 'Oh, I'm starting to feel it now,'" DeChalk said. "I told him that was probably the adrenaline kicking in and he was going into shock." Three hospitals reported treating eight people in connection with the attack, including two who were listed in serious condition. At least four others were released by Tuesday night. Fernando Montoya told television station KMGH that his 17-year-old son was shot three times but was expected to make a full recovery. "Thank God he is fine," Montoya said. "Even though he got shot, he's OK. He's going to walk out on his feet, so I'm glad. We're so lucky." The sheriff's office directed parents to a nearby recreational center to pick up their children. A fleet of school buses arrived and dropped off students, some of whom were crying and holding hands with their classmates as they were helped off. An ambulance also pulled up and let out a half-dozen children, none of whom appeared to be physically injured. Democratic Rep. Jason Crow, a gun-control supporter whose congressional district includes STEM, said the gun violence cannot continue. "It is not enough to send thoughts and prayers. It is empty. It is weak, and it does an injustice to our children who are on the front lines of this violence," he said Jerry Falwell, president of Liberty University, one of the worlds largest Christian universities, said someone had come into possession of what Cohen described as racy personal photographs the sort that would typically be kept between husband and wife, Michael Cohen said in the taped conversation. Washington: Months before evangelical leader Jerry Falwell Jr's game-changing presidential endorsement of Donald Trump in 2016, Falwell asked Trump fixer Michael Cohen for a personal favour, Cohen said in a recorded conversation reviewed by Reuters. Falwell, president of Liberty University, one of the worlds largest Christian universities, said someone had come into possession of what Cohen described as racy personal photographs the sort that would typically be kept between husband and wife, Cohen said in the taped conversation. According to a source familiar with Cohens thinking, the person who possessed the photos destroyed them after Cohen intervened on the Falwells behalf. The Falwells, through a lawyer, declined to comment for this article. Cohen, who began a three-year prison sentence this week for federal campaign violations and lying to Congress, recounted his involvement in the matter in a recording made surreptitiously by comedian Tom Arnold on 25 March. Portions of the recording in which Cohen appeared to disavow parts of his guilty plea were first reported 24 April by The Wall Street Journal. The Falwells enlisted Cohens help in 2015, according to the source familiar with Cohens thinking, the year Trump announced his presidential candidacy. At the time, Cohen was Trumps confidant and personal lawyer, and he worked for the Trump Organization. The Falwells wanted to keep a bunch of photographs, personal photographs from becoming public, Cohen told Arnold. I actually have one of the photos, he said, without going into specifics. Its terrible. Cohen would later prove successful in another matter involving Falwell, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters. Cohen helped persuade Falwell to issue his endorsement of Trumps presidential candidacy at a critical moment, they said: just before the Iowa caucuses. Falwell subsequently barnstormed with Trump and vouched for the candidates Christian virtues. Reuters has no evidence that Falwells endorsement of Trump was related to Cohens involvement in the photo matter. The source familiar with Cohens thinking insisted the endorsement and the help with the photographs were separate issues. Cohens connection to the Falwells sheds light on the formidable alliance between Trump and a man who, through his university, is one of the most influential evangelical figures in America. Falwells backing helped galvanize evangelicals and persuaded many Christians concerned about Trumps past behaviour to embrace him as a repentant sinner. Falwells support for Trump has not wavered throughout the New York celebrity-politicians own tribulations, including the Access Hollywood recording of Trump talking about grabbing womens genitals and payoffs made by Cohen to hide Trumps extramarital affairs. This past weekend, Falwell tweeted that Trump should have 2 yrs added to his 1st term to make up for the two years of the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Blockbuster endorsement Falwells endorsement of Trump, however, did surprise some students and staff at Liberty University, the school in Lynchburg, Virginia, founded by Falwells father, Jerry. It was at Liberty where fellow Republican presidential candidate and major Trump rival Ted Cruz had chosen to launch his campaign the previous year. Cruzs father was an evangelical preacher, much like Falwells father; Trump has been married three times and divorced twice. For years, prior to running for president, Trump boasted of his sexual exploits and supported a host of social positions, such as abortion rights, that run counter to beliefs espoused by Falwell. Although Falwell declined interview requests for this story, he has said repeatedly that he endorsed Trump because Trump was the strongest candidate, had significant experience running a business, and had the right vision for the country. The connection between Trump and Falwell goes back years. In 2012, Trump gave the convocation at Liberty University. One link between Trump and the couple appears to have been Cohen, a now-disbarred New York lawyer who formed a close bond with the Falwells. During the campaign, Cohen worked closely with Liberty University to help promote Trumps candidacy. It was around that time that Cohen heard from the Falwells about the photographs, said the source familiar with Cohens thinking. The Falwells told Cohen that someone had obtained photographs that were embarrassing to them, and was demanding money, the source said. Reuters was unable to determine who made the demand. The source said Cohen flew to Florida and soon met with an attorney for the person with the photographs. Cohen spoke with the attorney, telling the lawyer that his client was committing a crime, and that law enforcement authorities would be called if the demands didnt stop, the source said. The matter was soon resolved, the source said, and the lawyer told Cohen that all of the photographs were destroyed. Months later, in early 2016, Trump faced what seemed like an enormous challenge. The Iowa caucus was coming up, and Cohen then deeply loyal to Trump was concerned about how Trump would fare, the source said. Cohen felt Trump was being slaughtered in that community, and didnt want to see him embarrassed or, you know, without support, said the source familiar with Cohens thinking. Cohen repeatedly reached out to Jerry Falwell, and pleaded with him to back Trump, the source said. Soon after, according to this account, Falwell made his historic announcement. I am proud to offer my endorsement of Donald J Trump for President of the United States, Falwell was quoted saying in a statement issued by the Trump campaign. He is a successful executive and entrepreneur, a wonderful father and a man who I believe can lead our country to greatness again. (Reuters) - President Donald Trump is refusing to cooperate in numerous U.S. congressional probes of himself and his administration, taking a defiant stance that is likely to land him in protracted court fights with Democrats in the House of Representatives. Trump's stonewalling has hardened since the mid-April release of a redacted report from Special Counsel Robert Mueller on how Moscow interfered in the 2016 U.S. (Reuters) - President Donald Trump is refusing to cooperate in numerous U.S. congressional probes of himself and his administration, taking a defiant stance that is likely to land him in protracted court fights with Democrats in the House of Representatives. Trump's stonewalling has hardened since the mid-April release of a redacted report from Special Counsel Robert Mueller on how Moscow interfered in the 2016 U.S. presidential election and Trump's subsequent attempts to impede Mueller's probe. On May 2, it was revealed that the Trump administration is asserting it has the right to instruct advisers not to testify before congressional committees on the Russia probe. In most of the cases where Trump and his advisers are refusing to cooperate, they run the legal risk of contempt of Congress citations and legal enforcement actions that could result in fines and even imprisonment. Here are several instances of Trump defying Congress: EX-COUNSEL MCGAHN On Tuesday, the White House told the House Judiciary Committee that ex-White House Counsel Don McGahn does not have the legal right to comply with a committee subpoena seeking documents from him on Mueller's probe. McGahn was a key witness in the probe. House Judiciary, chaired by Democrat Jerrold Nadler, wants to hear from McGahn and review related administration documents that he has. McGahn has been directed not to produce the documents in response to the committee's subpoena, according to current White House counsel Pat Cipollone. In a letter to Nadler, Cipollone said McGahn got the documents during the Mueller probe "with the clear understanding that the records remain subject to the control of the White House for all purposes." McGahn left his post at the White House in October 2018. UNREDACTED REPORT The redacted Mueller report, released on April 18 by Attorney General William Barr, left some questions about the probe unanswered. Democrats have subpoenaed the unredacted report and the evidence Mueller relied on. Barr, a Trump appointee, has refused to comply with the subpoena. The House Judiciary Committee moved a step closer on Monday to holding Barr in contempt of Congress. The panel is slated to vote on Wednesday on finalising a contempt citation. TAX RETURNS Unlike past presidents in recent decades, Trump has refused to make public his tax returns, raising questions about what is in them. Democrats are probing Trump's past business dealings and possible conflicts of interest involving him. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Monday denied a leading House Democrat's request for Trump's returns. In a May 6 letter, Mnuchin told House tax committee Chairman Richard Neal that he would not comply with the Democrat's April 3 request, saying it lacks "a legitimate legislative purpose." MAZARS Trump has filed a lawsuit attempting to keep U.S. lawmakers from obtaining his financial records. The unprecedented suit seeks to block a subpoena issued by House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings, a Democrat. The subpoena sought eight years of documents from Mazars USA, an accounting firm long used by Trump. A May 14 court hearing has been set in the case. CENSUS AND CITIZENSHIP The Justice Department has rebuffed the Oversight Committee's request for an interview with John Gore, an official involved in the administrations decision to include a citizenship question in the 2020 census, if he could not have a Justice Department lawyer at his side. IMPEACHMENT Trump has vowed to fight any effort by congressional Democrats to launch impeachment proceedings against him, promising to go to the Supreme Court, even though it plays no role in the constitutional impeachment process. FBI HEADQUARTERS Congressional Democrats have complained that the administration has responded too slowly to their requests for documents about Trump's abandonment of a plan to relocate the FBI's headquarters. Before he became president, Trump supported moving the headquarters to the suburbs of Washington from the centre of town, said Democrats looking into the matter. They said that after Trump was elected and disqualified from bidding to buy the FBI's present headquarters site for commercial development, he switched his position. Democrats have raised questions about a possible Trump conflict of interest. IMMIGRATION AIDE The White House has refused a request for Trump's top immigration aide Stephen Miller to testify to Congress, in a letter to the House Oversight Committee. BANK SUBPOENAS Trump, his three oldest children and the Trump Organization have sued to block House subpoenas seeking Trump financial records from two banks: Deutsche Bank AG and Capital One Financial Corp. A 2017 financial disclosure form showed that Trump had at least $130 million of liabilities to Germany's Deutsche Bank. Democratic lawmakers have asked Capital One's chief executive for documents related to potential conflicts of interest tied to Trump's hotel in downtown Washington and other business interests. In the lawsuit, Trump accused House leaders of pursuing records for no legitimate or lawful purpose, hoping to "stumble upon something" they could use against him. (Compiled by Caroline Stauffer; editing by Kevin Drawbaugh and Phil Berlowitz) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Two Reuters journalists, jailed in Myanmar after they were convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act, walked free from prison. Wa Lone (33) and Kyaw Soe Oo (29), two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after they were convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act, walked free from prison on Tuesday. The journalists spent over 500 days in prison. Before their arrest in December 2017, they had been working on an investigation into the killing of ten Rohingya Muslims, including boys, by security forces and Buddhist civilians in western Myanmars Rakhine State during an army crackdown that began in August 2017. The report the two men authored, featuring testimony from perpetrators, witnesses and families of the victims, was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for international reporting in May, adding to a number of accolades received by the pair for their journalism. But the release of the journalists by Myanmar is not really an acknowledgement on part of the government of the injustice meted out to them. After all, the two journalists were released under a presidential amnesty for 6,520 prisoners. President Win Myint pardoned thousands of other prisoners in mass amnesties since last month. It is customary in Myanmar for authorities to free prisoners across the country around the time of the traditional New Year, which began on 17 April. That the conviction of the two journalists was gross injustice has been widely accepted and is also corroborated by evidence. As The Indian Express reports, the two journalists had "two rolled-up pieces of paper" shoved into their hands by a police officer shortly before they were arrested outside a restaurant in Yangon. A police witness has also confirmed this. A look into the incident the two journalists were investigating also shows that Myanmar has failed when it comes to guaranteeing its people their fundamental rights in a democracy. The killings in the coastal village of Inn Din marked another bloody episode in the ethnic violence sweeping northern Rakhine State, on Myanmars western fringe. Nearly 6,90,000 Rohingya Muslims fled their villages and crossed the border into Bangladesh since August. None of Inn Dins 6,000 Rohingya remained in the village as of October 2018. The Rohingya accuse the army of arson, rape and killings aimed at snuffing them out in this mainly Buddhist nation of 53 million. The United Nations said the army may have committed genocide; the United States has called the action ethnic cleansing. Myanmar says its clearance operation is a legitimate response to attacks by Rohingya insurgents. Moreover, the two Reuters journalists may have been released but there are others still facing unfair charges in the country. As Human Rights Watch pointed out, merely two days before the release of the Reuters journalists, the police summoned two journalists from Development Media Group (DMG) based in Rakhine State for questioning. The intelligence branch of the Home Ministry filed a complaint against DMG's group editor for allegedly promoting "an unlawful association" through DMG's news articles. Even though it is still not clear what the complaint is exactly based on, it is known that DMG reported extensively on the violence in Rakhine State between an ethnic armed group and the Myanmar military. Since the Aung San Suu Kyi government came to power in Myanmar, criminal charges have been made against at least 47 reporters. Human Rights Watch has also said that authorities in Myanmar should independently probe the killing of at least six villagers who had been detailed by the military in Rakhine State on 2 May. Furthermore, on 10 April, the military raided the village of Let Kar in Mrauk U township, after which 27 people were detained for questioning regarding alleged links to the Arakan Army, the ethnic armed group which the Myanmar military is fighting against in Rakhine State. With inputs from Reuters BAGHDAD (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Baghdad on Tuesday and met with Iraq's prime minister and other top officials to discuss the safety of Americans in Iraq and explain U.S BAGHDAD (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unannounced visit to Baghdad on Tuesday and met with Iraq's prime minister and other top officials to discuss the safety of Americans in Iraq and explain U.S. security concerns amid rising Iranian activity. The visit came two days after U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said the United States was deploying the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and a bomber task force to the region because of a "credible threat by Iranian regime forces." The concern about a threat from Iranian forces comes after Washington has ramped up sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear program in recent months and designated the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist group. "We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country," Pompeo told reporters after meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi. An Iraqi government source confirmed the meeting with Abdul Mahdi but did not elaborate on the details. Pompeo said the purpose of the meeting also was to let Iraqi officials know more about "the increased threat stream that we had seen" so they could effectively protect U.S. forces. Pompeo said he expressed U.S. support for Iraqi sovereignty, noting, "We dont want anyone interfering in their country, certainly not by attacking another nation inside of Iraq." Asked before the meetings if there was a threat to the Baghdad government from Iran that raised U.S. concerns about Iraqi sovereignty, Pompeo said, "No, no, generally this has been our position since the national security strategy came out in the beginning of the Trump administration." Asked about the decision to move the aircraft carrier and bomber task force to the region, Pompeo said Washington wanted to defend its interests from the Iranian threat and ensure it had the forces necessary to accomplish that goal. "The message that weve sent to the Iranians, I hope, puts us in a position where we can deter and the Iranians will think twice about attacking American interests," Pompeo said, noting that the U.S. intelligence was "very specific" about "attacks that were imminent." He said the United States has urged Iraq to move quickly to bring Iranian-influenced independent militias under central government control, noting that they make Iraq "a less stable nation." Pompeo also said spoke to Iraqi officials about their energy and infrastructure needs, especially in the electricity, oil and natural gas sectors. He said they discussed ways to quickly move forward with projects that could help improve Iraqi lives. (Reporting by Ahmed Rasheed; Additional reporting by Eric Beech in Washington; writing by John Davison and David Alexander; editing by Jonathan Oatis) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. South Africans to go to the polls on Wednesday, ANC to expected to win despite corruptions scandals and record unemployment. Johannesburg: South Africans go to the polls on Wednesday for national elections in which the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party, in power since 1994, is the favourite to win despite corruption scandals and sluggish economic growth and record unemployment. The ANC has won all the past five elections, but Wednesday's vote is set to be an electoral test on whether the party has staunched a decline in popularity. The party is tipped to win the vote but with a reduced majority, and the result will reveal whether its new leader, President Cyril Ramaphosa, can reverse growing resentment among South African voters. Ramaphosa took over from scandal-tainted Jacob Zuma, under whose leadership the ANC saw the most significant drop in support since 1994. He acknowledged on the eve of the election that "we are humble enough to admit our mistakes. We have taken decisive steps to fight corruption." The election comes 25 years since Mandela led the ANC to power in the country's first multi-racial ballot, which marked the globally-celebrated end of the apartheid rule. Support for the ANC has fallen in every election since 2004 with the party winning just 54 percent in 2016 local elections, compared with 62 percent in the last national vote in 2014. Ramaphosa, 66, took office last year when Zuma was forced to resign as president by the ANC after a nine-year reign dominated by corruption allegations and economic woes. Most opinion surveys suggest the ANC will secure nearly 60 percent of the vote on Wednesday, thanks to the Ramaphosa effect and a weak fragmented opposition. "The ANC will pull another majority. It might be a reduced majority," said political scientist Collette Schulz-Herzenberg from Stellenbosch University. "It reflects the weakness of the opposition, more than it does reflect the achievements of the ANC," she added. The pro-business moderate Ramaphosa is a former anti-apartheid activist and trade union leader who was Mandela's apparent favourite to succeed him as president. After being outmaneuvered in that race, Ramaphosa instead became a wealthy entrepreneur before serving as Zuma's vice president. The ANC has been confronted by deepening public anger over its failure to tackle poverty and inequality in post-apartheid South Africa. The economy grew just 0.8 percent in 2018 and unemployment hovers at a high of nearly 27 percent, rising over 50 percent among young people. Corruption, especially in state owned companies became almost endemic under Zuma. "In a normal country the ANC should be losing the election on the 8th (of May)," said University of Witwatersrand senior lecturer Lumkile Mondi. Of the 47 opposition parties in the race, only the main opposition centrist Democratic Alliance (DA) and the radical-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are major players. The DA which hopes to shed its image as a white, middle-class party as its first black leader, Mmusi Maimane, fights in his first general election since he took the helm in 2015, is expected to make marginal gains from the 22 percent it won 2014. But the radical leftist EFF, founded just six years ago by a former ANC youth leader Julius Malema, is predicted to make major inroads, growing from 6.3 percent to a forecast 11 percent. The party, which appeals mainly to young voters and the poor, has centered its election campaign on its policy of seizing land from largely white owners to give to poor blacks. Enforced land redistribution has also been adopted as a policy by Ramaphosa's government, therefore alarming some investors. Wednesday's provincial elections will also measure ANC fortunes, with the party in a close fight with the DA for control of Gauteng (one of the provinces in South Africa), which includes the capital Pretoria and the economic hub Johannesburg. Some 26.8 million voters are registered to cast ballots at 22,925 polling stations. Polls open at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and close 14 hours later. Early results will emerge on Thursday, 9 May with an official winner declared on Saturday. The party that wins most seats in parliament selects the president, who will be sworn in on 25 May. KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Sudan's military rulers said on Tuesday they generally agreed with proposals made by protest leaders on the structure of an interim government, but want Islamic Sharia laws and local norms to be the source of legislation. Protesters whose months of street demonstrations helped force longtime President Omar al-Bashir from office last month have kept up their demands for change, calling on the military officers who took over to hand over power to civilians. KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Sudan's military rulers said on Tuesday they generally agreed with proposals made by protest leaders on the structure of an interim government, but want Islamic Sharia laws and local norms to be the source of legislation. Protesters whose months of street demonstrations helped force longtime President Omar al-Bashir from office last month have kept up their demands for change, calling on the military officers who took over to hand over power to civilians. Responding to a draft constitutional document presented by a coalition of protest groups and political parties, the ruling Transitional Military Council noted that the document omitted Sharia law. "Our view is that Islamic Sharia and the local norms and traditions in the Republic of Sudan should be the sources of legislation," TMC spokesman Lieutenant General Shams El Din Kabbashi told reporters. He also said the council believes that the power to declare a state of emergency in the country should go to a sovereign authority, not the cabinet as the opposition suggested. The transitional period should last two years, not four, which was the opposition's proposal, he said. The Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces, an alliance of activists and opposition groups, sent the military council the draft constitutional document on Thursday outlining its vision for the transitional period. Earlier on Tuesday the main group spearheading protests in Sudan said that the TMC had responded to its plans for an interim government structure, and it would announce its position once it had studied the reply. Amjad Farid, spokesman for the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA), which has played the leading role in the protests, said the council had sent a written reply. "We will study the response and will announce our position later," Farid told reporters. The constitutional draft, seen by Reuters, describes the duties of a sovereign transitional council that the opposition groups hope will replace the TMC, but does not specify who would sit on it. It also outlines the responsibilities of the cabinet and a 120-member legislature. The military removed Bashir on April 11 after months of demonstrations against his 30-year rule. (Reporting by Khalid Abdelaziz and Nadine Awadalla in Khartoum and Nayera Abdallah in Cairo; Writing by Lena Masri; Editing by Frances Kerry and Tom Brown) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Chelsea Decaminada dies after succumbing to her injuries, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka and US Commerce Secretary condole her death. Colombo/Washington: An American official, seriously injured during the Easter Sunday suicide bombings in Sri Lanka succumbed to her injuries, the US embassy said Wednesday as Washington reaffirmed its commitment to fight terrorism around the world. Chelsea Decaminada, an International Programme Specialist with the Department of Commerce, was staying at the Shangri-La in Colombo on 21 April when two Islamist bombers attacked the luxury hotel. Confirming her death, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Alaina Teplitz said Decaminada succumbed after a valiant fight to injuries from the attacks. "We mourn the loss of Chelsea Decaminada, who succumbed after a valiant fight to injuries from the attacks. Our prayers are with her family. We pay tribute to Chelsea & all those lost & injured by partnering w Sri Lanka & nations worldwide to bring unity in the face of terrorism," Teplitz said in a tweet. It was reported that she was airlifted to a hospital in Singapore for treatment. In Washington, US commerce secretary Wilbur Ross in a statement confirmed Decaminada's death as a result of injuries sustained during the 21 April terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka, where she was on assignment. "It was our great hope that Chelsea (Decaminada) would recover from her injuries. My prayers are with Chelsea's family during this difficult time," Ross, who was in India on Tuesday, said. He described her as a talented International Programme Specialist in the Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP) of the Office of the General Counsel. "Chelsea devoted her life to public service, and her dedication and spirit were a model for all of us at Commerce. She served her country with distinction. As we mourn her loss, we must continue to fight terrorism around the world," Ross said. The massive suicide bombings were claimed by the Islamic State group and attributed to the National Thawheed Jammath, a little-known local radical outfit. Nine bombers, including a woman, targeted three luxury hotels and three Catholic churches in the worst terror attack in Sri Lanka. With Decaminada's death, the number of killed in the Easter Sunday attack rose to at least 258. The total number of foreigners killed is now 45 foreigners, including 10 Indians. With inputs from PTI At the Google I/O few hours back, Google introduced its Nest Hub Max smart display, a bigger version of the Home Hub, which is now called the Nest Hub. The Nest Hub Max features a 10-inch (1280800 pixels) HD screen, comes with a 6.5-megapixel camera with 127-degree wide field of view and auto-framing, Face Match technology to show only your information, and you can also use it as a Nest Cam when you are away from home, use it for Google Duo calls. It shows all the connected devices in the Home View dashboard that lets you control music, see nest cam, control Thermostat and more. It has Far-field microphones with support for Voice Match that lets the Assistant recognize your voice and respond to, Ultrasound sensing and Stereo speaker system (2x 18mm 10W tweeters) has well as 30W subwoofer (75mm). There is a separate switch to disable camera and the microphones if you dont need them. It has support for WiFi 802.11 ac (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0 and has 802.15.4 (at 2.4GHz) Thread support, so just like Nest connect, it communicates directly with Thread-supported low-power devices like door locks and motion sensors. The Nest Hub Max comes in Chalk and Charcoal colors, is priced at $229 (Rs. 15,935 approx.) and will be available in the US, UK and Australia in Summer. Nest Hub (Home Hub) The Nest Hub has received a price cut to $129 (Rs. 8,975 approx.) and will be available in 12 new countriesCanada, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Spain and Sweden. It has also received support for 9 new languages. We should know about the India availability soon. Atmos Energy Corp (NYSE:ATO) Q2 2019 Earnings Call , 9:00 a.m. ET Contents: Prepared Remarks Questions and Answers Call Participants Prepared Remarks: Operator Greetings and welcome to Atmos Energy Second Quarter Fiscal 2019 Earnings Conference Call. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. A question-and-answer session will follow the formal presentation. (Operator Instructions) As a reminder, this conference is being recorded. It is now my pleasure to introduce your host, Jennifer Hills, Vice President of Investor Relations. Please go ahead. Jennifer P. Hills -- Vice President, Investor Relations Thank you, Kevin and good morning, everyone. This is Jennifer Hills, Vice President of Investor Relations and thank you for joining us. This morning, I'm joined by Mike Haefner, our President and CEO; and Chris Forsythe, Senior Vice President and CFO. This call is being webcast live on the internet and our earnings release and conference call slide presentation are available on our website at atmosenergy.com under Company and Investor Relations. As we review these financial results and discuss future expectations, please keep in mind that some of our discussions might contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Act and the Securities Exchange Act. Our forward-looking statements and projections could differ materially from actual results. The factors that could cause such material differences are outlined on Slide 27 and are more fully described in our SEC filings. Our first speaker is Chris Forsythe, Senior Vice President and CFO of Atmos Energy. Chris? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Jennifer and good morning, everyone. We appreciate your interest in Atmos Energy. Last night, we reported fiscal 2019 second quarter earnings of $215 million or $1.82 per diluted share compared with adjusted earnings of $135 million or $1.57 per diluted share in the prior quarter. Adjusted earnings, excluding $4 million benefit related to the implementation of tax reform. Year-to-date, earnings were $373 million or $3.21 per diluted share compared with adjusted earnings of $327 million or $2.97 per diluted share, and adjusted earnings excluded a $166 million benefit related to the implementation of tax reform. Also yesterday, the Board of Directors approved the 142nd consecutive quarterly cash dividend of $0.525, which represents an indicated annual dividend of $2.10 per share in fiscal 2019 and 8.2% increase over fiscal 2018. Our second quarter results were in line with our expectations. The recovery of the capital spending required to modernize the natural gas delivery network, continued customer growth in the plant increase and safety related operating expenses were the primary drivers of the quarter's results. Slides five and six provide details of the period-over-period changes to operating income for each of our segments. I will touch on a few highlights. In the second quarter, operating income in our distribution segment increased 8% to $229 million. Recovery provided by recent regulatory actions increased contribution margin by $24 million. Additionally, we continue to experience solid customer growth. Over the last 12 months, we added a net 37,000 new customers, which represents 1.2% growth. We continue to experience strong customer growth in several of our service areas, including the DFW Metroplex, the suburbs of Nashville into the north of Austin and (13:30) Kansas to the Western Kansas City. This growth added $4 million in contribution margin for the quarter and almost $8 million year-to-date. However, despite weather that was 9% colder than the prior year quarter, customer consumption declined due to varying weather patterns quarter-over-quarter which reduced contribution margin by about -- $9 million. Operating expenses decreased by about 1%. In the prior year quarter, we incurred $23 million related to customer assistance and other non-recurring expenses related to the outage in Northwest Dallas. After adjusting for these expenses, operating expenses increased approximately 9%, more than half of this increase reflects higher depreciation and ad valorem taxes driven by last year's capital spending. The remaining increase related to a planned increase in system integrity and maintenance work such as -- digital mapping of legacy assets and work to mitigate and reduce third-party damage to our system. Additionally, we experienced higher labor and training costs as we have added service technicians and leak survey specialist to support our Mid-Tex operations in the DFW Metroplex. Operating income in our pipeline and storage segment increased about 16% to $69 million during the second quarter. New rates from our last year's GRIP filing contributed $12 million of this growth. Additionally, APT continued to benefit from the supply and demand dynamics in the Permian Basin. APT's through system revenue increased about $1 million quarter-over-quarter and about $4.5 million year-to-date, net other Rider REV mechanism. APT's tariff customers continue to benefit from this mechanism, while our distribution customers in Texas receive the benefit of low cost of gas produced in this region. Operating expenses increased $6 million or about 9%, about half of this increase reflects higher depreciation expense as a result of last year's capital spending. Additionally, we plan for incremental pipeline integrity work, which was the primary driver for the remainder of the increase in operating expenses. Consolidated capital spending increased 12% to $778 million year-to-date about 84 of this -- 84% of the spending was dedicated to safety and reliability projects. We remain on track to achieve our capital spending target of $1.65 billion to $1.75 billion for the fiscal year. From a financing perspective, we had another busy quarter as we completed over $600 million of financing. We refinanced our $450 million, 8.5% 10-year notes with 4.125% 30-year notes. As a result of the financing, our overall cost of debt decreased to 4.6% and our weighted average maturity increased to 22 years. Additionally, as most of you are aware, we moved to the S&P 500 from the S&P MidCap 400 in mid-February. We took advantage of this unplanned unique liquidity event to issue 1.0 million shares to forward sales arrangements executed under our ATM program. The net proceeds of $159 million from these forward sales arrangements were used toward our equity needs for fiscal 2020 and will not be fully diluted until issued in fiscal 2020. These net proceeds combined with the $245 million in net proceeds issued under forward sales arrangements to our -- during our November equity issuance, leaves us with just over $400 million to help fund our capital spending through March 31, 2020 when all of these forward sales arrangements mature. Based on the execution of these forward arrangements, the remaining availability under our ATM program and our current capital spending outlook, we do not foresee the need for discrete equity issuance, through the end of fiscal 2020. As a result of our financing activities this year, our equity to total capitalization was 60% and our short-term debt balance was 0 at quarter end. Including the $108 million in cash on hand at the end of March and the $404 million in net proceeds available under the forward sales arrangements, we have approximately $2.1 billion of total available liquidity. After resetting most of our regulatory mechanisms last year, our fiscal 2019 regulatory calendar has returned to a more traditional cadence. To-date, we had implemented $86 million of annualized regulatory outcomes and have about $90 million in progress. Annual filings in Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi are among the most significance of these filings or filings. Before I turn the call over to Mike, I wanted to comment on our fiscal 2019 earnings per share guidance. Yesterday we narrowed our guidance to a range of $4.25 to $4.35 per diluted share. Slides 12 and 13 provide additional details of our updated guidance. Earnings for the first half of fiscal year were in line with our expectations. We should see potential for a modest uptick in AT -- APT contribution margins as a result of the supply and demand dynamics affecting the Permian Basin. However, as we had communicated before, settlements are focused on preparing APT for winter operations for the next fiscal year and we do not expect the impact to be material. Additionally, we have completed our fiscal 2019 financing program, and we now have clarity on how those -- that financing will impact fiscal 2019 results. Finally, during the first half of the fiscal year, we initiated several efforts that will further mitigate long-term risk. Following the incident of New England last fall, we are now assessing our low pressure systems and implementing additional procedures to continue to safely managing these systems. Additionally, during the first half of the fiscal year, we initiated a multi-year effort to implement new leak detection technology. The preliminary results from the initial pilot efforts have been encouraging and we'll continue to methodically implement this technology in certain of our jurisdictions during the second half of the fiscal year. And in the second half of the fiscal year, we are planning to run additional in-line inspections in our pipeline and storage segment to facilitate capital allocation -- decisions for fiscal 2020 and beyond. Our performance for the first half of the fiscal year and additional clarity we have for the second half of the fiscal year leaves us well positioned to meet our 6% to 8% earnings-per-share growth target for fiscal 2019. I'll now turn the call over to Mike for some closing remarks. Mike? Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Thank you, Chris for that great update on the quarter. Our results for the first half of the fiscal year reflect the ongoing disciplined execution of the investments we're making in safety and reliability of our system, while continuing to -- mitigate long-term risk. Capital spending increased 12% during the first six months of the fiscal year, which demonstrates our commitment to modernizing our system. As we plan to increase our spending 9% to 10% per year through fiscal 2023, we're also investing in our people and technology to support these higher spending levels. Last fall, we started to implement new technology that will digitally capture all the data -- we are required to collect and retain for compliance purposes. We completed the rollout to about 20% of the nearly 1,000 company and contractor crews working on our system, we're on track to expand the rollout to about 50% of these crews by fiscal year end. This is just one example of the various initiatives we have under way to build scale and efficiency to sustain our ability to invest in safety and reliability. During the first half of the fiscal year, we also continue to find ways to mitigate risk for the long-term. The increased O&M spending that Chris referred to in the second half of the fiscal year for low pressure system assessment, systematic rollout and newly survey technology and in-line inspections on our transmission system will help us implement new procedures and technology that will enhance our ability to safely operate our system and support our risk-based capital allocation program. This spending does not affect our anticipated 6% to 8% annual earnings per share and dividend per share growth through fiscal 2023. Additionally, as Chris mentioned, our move to the S&P 500, created an unplanned and unique liquidity event to issue equity under forward sales arrangements through our ATM that will be used toward our fiscal 2020 equity needs. These are just a couple of examples of how we remain agile when conditions evolve to mitigate operational and execution risk for the long-term. These equity forward arrangements, combined with the additional $1.8 billion of debt and equity financing, further strengthen our balance sheet and provide the capacity necessary to finance our capital spending plans over the next five years. As we look toward the back half of the fiscal year, we have more clarity around the regulatory outcomes, our O&M spending and our financing costs. This clarity gives us the confidence to tighten our EPS guidance range to $4.25 to $4.35, which leaves us well positioned to meet our earnings-per-share growth targets for fiscal 2019. In closing, I'd like to thank our employees for their continued outstanding efforts. Our highly qualified gas professionals come to work every day. Laser focused on safety, while providing excellent customer service, closely monitoring and maintaining our system and executing our capital spending program. They are accomplishing these critical services, while striving to improve every day as we deliver safe, reliable and affordable natural gas service to the nearly 3.3 million customers we serve and over 1,400 communities and our 8 state footprint. We certainly appreciate your time this morning, and we'll take any questions you may have. Kevin? Questions and Answers: Operator Thank you. We'll now be conducting a question-and-answer session. (Operator Instructions) Our first question today is coming from Christopher Turnure from JPMorgan. Your line is now live. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Good morning, Chris. Christopher Turnure -- JPMorgan & Company -- Analyst Hey, Mike. Hey, Chris. So I wanted to make sure we were understanding kind of the equity situation correctly. Going back to last fall, my understanding was, you guys priced around $750 million of equity, a $150 million of which had a forward component to it that your message was you would pull down before I think the first half of fiscal '20. And then separately you had a forward component to a $500 million ATM. So what exactly occurred this quarter and kind of when is that going to hit your share count? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Right. And so Chris backing up to November, it was $748 million total equity issuance, of which, $500 million before costs were taken into the first quarter, $245 million was allocated to forward sales arrangements that expire in March of 2020. And our plan was to draw down the $245 million between January of 2019 and March 31 of 2020. When we had the opportunity presented to us that was unplanned when we moved to the S&P 500 in February, we issued $160 million under our ATM, under forward sales arrangements. So we have a total of $404 million in total forward arrangements available to us through the end of March of 2020. And we'll take that down over that next -- basically over the next 11 months to 12 months based on our cash needs. But again, all of us have been contemplated in our 6% to 8% earnings-per-share growth target for fiscal '19 and in the five-year plan and the -- net forward -- the forward arrangements that we took out in February are going to be applied against our fiscal 2020 equity needs, it will not be dilutive to fiscal '19. Christopher Turnure -- JPMorgan & Company -- Analyst Okay, got it. I think I understand now. But there's still a lot in there. So the amount that you did in February was simply priced under the forward ATM and you do not intend to pull that down during fiscal 2019 and you are still kind of leaving the forward component of the $750 million from November as -- you're not specifying when you pull that down? That's correct... Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Yeah we'll certainly start in the -- toward the end of fiscal '19, the exact amount will be -- to be determined based on our cash flow projections and cash needs. Christopher Turnure -- JPMorgan & Company -- Analyst Okay. And... Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer But we have to utilize all of those equity need -- all of that equity by the end of -- March of 2020, because the forward sales arrangements expire March 31st of 2020. Christopher Turnure -- JPMorgan & Company -- Analyst And then, your comment on these actions covering you through fiscal 2020 so I want to make sure that I'm understanding properly. You're committing that there will be no more equity issuances in the kind of normal course of business. Admitting that we will not have a discrete equity needs such as a large scale block trade that we've done the last couple of years with the ATM remains available to us and we intend to consider using that as we go forward as part of our overall financing strategy and needs, honestly. You think back to our five-year plan that we rolled out last fall, we have $5 billion to $6 billion of incremental financing needs and we intend to satisfy those needs through a balance of long-term debt and equity. And so we're still executing toward that plan. Okay. That's pretty clear. And then I guess just as a second question, you mentioned gas basis in Texas is helping you guys at least a little bit here. Can you give us more detail on how you're thinking about that over the next 6 months or 12 months, I think you said that you were making some preparations there in some way? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Yeah, that's correct. In the summer months as you know, Chris we have to reduce the pressure on the pipeline for maintenance work to get ready for winter operations. So we don't have as much opportunity to take advantage of those spreads. We do see some modest uptick, but between the fact that the pressure is going to be coming down on the system for maintenance work and the fact that we have Rider REVs in place, where we always share in 25% of that upside. We do, like I said, we do anticipate a modest uptick that we've contemplated in our guidance, but we don't anticipate that to be all that material in the grand scheme of things. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director And Chris as you look into 2020, the expectation is the Gulf Coast Express is expected to be in service in the October-November timeframe. So we expect that to begin affecting spreads in the 2020 timeframe. And the key is that, our customers are benefiting from lower cost gas and then also through the Rider REV mechanism with -- in terms of their transport costs, gas costs. Christopher Turnure -- JPMorgan & Company -- Analyst That makes sense. All right. Thank you guys. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Chris. Operator Thank you. Our next question today is coming from Charles Fishman from Morningstar. Your line is now live. Charles Fishman -- Morningstar, Inc. -- Analyst Hi. Just -- good morning. Just going back to the equity. Your guidance, the average diluted shares goes down a little bit. The net income guidance for '19 went down a little bit on the upper end. But correct me if I'm wrong, what happened basically was, you went out for the equity you needed and were able to get it a little better pricing and then that drove your diluted shares down or is it just a later -- are you issuing them at a later date, what basically drove the average diluted share quantity down? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Generally pricing. Generally pricing. Charles Fishman -- Morningstar, Inc. -- Analyst Okay. That's what I would have assumed. Okay. Second question, operational. Certainly a tragic event in Boston in the fall. Final report isn't in, but it sounds like a low pressure event, that utility is putting in low pressure sensing devices through their whole system. Is that something you already have? Is that something you're doing? Is that something you will be doing or what's the status as far as the Atmos System with respect to low pressure sensing? Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director No -- it's a good question, Charles and I mean, we operated in our low pressure systems. I mean, for a long time and we're constantly working on them. As Chris mentioned, we have been pretty proactive in terms of doing a full system evaluation design evaluation and we've kind of reaffirmed and reviewed all of our procedures, recommunicated them, we've created geo-fencing in our GIS systems. So when there our line locates calls that are anywhere near a low pressure systems, we'll have individuals from the Company there to monitor any construction or digging in near our assets and then this review of our system design will then guide our next set of actions which may involve bifurcating those systems or providing, putting other kind of technical solutions like slam shut devices or additional releases on based on the needs. So we're well along that process and we expect that we haven't seen anything that concerns us at this time. Charles Fishman -- Morningstar, Inc. -- Analyst But I suspect that technology is rapidly changing on this stuff. But do you have some device or some way of sensing a low pressure event that has occurred or -- excuse me, I guess was a high pressure event in Boston, I had it backwards. Do you have the capability of sensing that now and most of your system? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Yes, since the -- I mean, since the designs were put in -- the systems were put in over a longer period of time, there are various solutions to that, but yes, we have pressure sensors, we have pressure release devices as well. So we've got that type of protection in the system and what we're doing now is just going back through and doing a comprehensive review and seeing it, there are other interim or other steps we should take as it relates to low pressure. Charles Fishman -- Morningstar, Inc. -- Analyst Yeah, I guess the events that really drive you nuts is a contractor doing work that has nothing to your people, but obviously that contractor could do something stupid that creates a problem for you and that's, I would assume as an ongoing issue that you'd have to address. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Yes, certainly the 70% of our hazardous leaks or calls by third-party damage. It's a very significant focus of our efforts and advocacy and it will continue to be and as I mentioned for the low pressure systems, we've taken the steps to geo-fence them in this electronically within our GIS system, so that as line locates coming in, if we have anybody work in near those systems we're going to have somebody monitoring it. Charles Fishman -- Morningstar, Inc. -- Analyst Okay, thank you very much. That's all I have. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Thank you, Charles. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Thank you, Charles. Operator Thank you. Our next question today is coming from Stephen Byrd from Morgan Stanley. Your line is now live. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Stephen, good morning. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Hey, Stephen. Operator Mr. Byrd, perhaps your phone is on mute, please pickup your handset... David Arcaro -- Morgan Stanley -- Analyst Sorry about that. Hi, this is Dave Arcaro for Stephen Byrd. Thanks for taking my question. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Hi, good morning. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Good morning. David Arcaro -- Morgan Stanley -- Analyst Good morning. Let's see, had a quick question, so I was wondering, just if there, what are your latest thoughts following some of the commentary coming out of the Dallas City Council over the last couple of days with the rate request there, does that change any -- your views of the overall process for that rate request? Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Yeah, I think what we're seeing is a normal part of the process, Dave. I mean, earlier this year, we filed the $10.1 million rate increase request in accordance with the annual mechanism, we agreed to early in 2017, that request is on the City Council agenda today. City staff, we've been working with them and their consultants and representatives and they've acknowledged the efforts on both sides and try to reach an agreement. However, we haven't been able to do so in time for their needed approvals. So the staffs recommended that the City Council denied the request. Now that denial would trigger an appeal process to the Railroad Commission which we've been down that path before and our plans to continue to work with the city, we share common interest certainly on replacing aging infrastructure and we've been investing for many, many years in Dallas and we expect to reach the agreement in some point in time in the future. We -- our Company has made a $119 million of infrastructure improvements in the City of Dallas during that test year and we also agreed to accelerate our cast iron replacement at the city's request to 2021 and getting the last that remove in 2021 versus 2023. So maybe a longer answer than you were looking for but it's -- I think, we're continuing to have discussions and we'll continue to move down the path to try to find a win-win solution. David Arcaro -- Morgan Stanley -- Analyst Okay, great. That's helpful. And I was just wondering your latest thoughts on expectations for the NTSB process? Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Sure. We don't have much of an update, that the core of engineers completed soil samples, they are requested in the area, they were requested to do that by the NTSB and then a public release in late February or early March, the NTSB indicated that they are finding a fact or factual report would be expected in June that -- so that's the next step that would come from them and that would not at that time include any probable cause or safety recommendations, those will be sometime later and there is no timeframe on them. In the meantime, we continue to work with the NTSB and we continue to move forward on improvements in our processes around safety and then our safety investment in our systems so. David Arcaro -- Morgan Stanley -- Analyst Okay, got it. That's helpful. And then maybe one last question. Wanted to clarify on the increased O&M expected this year for some of the low pressure system investments, I was wondering how you anticipated getting recovery of those investments, it sounds like that's anticipated, but does that flow through mechanisms or how do you think about that? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Yeah, we will seek to recover those costs maybe annual mechanisms that we have in the various jurisdictions. Again, it's safety-related. And I think everyone has got a keen eye on what happened last fall and all of our regulators have a commitment to safety and we would seek to recover those costs in our next round of filings. David Arcaro -- Morgan Stanley -- Analyst Okay, great. Thanks very much. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Thank you. Operator Thank you. Our next question is coming from Brian Levine from Citi. Your line is now live. Brian Levine -- Citigroup -- Analyst Good morning. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Brian, good morning. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Brian, how are you doing? Brian Levine -- Citigroup -- Analyst Good and how are you guys? Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Good. Brian Levine -- Citigroup -- Analyst Just to follow-up on the Permian Waha Katy places movements, is there a way to quantify exactly what the impact was for the first quarter or for the first calendar quarter given your sharing mechanism? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer In the first calendar quarter. So year-over-year, we're up about $4.5 million quarter-over-quarter we're up about $1 million. So it was about $3.5 million in the first quarter year-over-year -- quarter-over-quarter last fiscal year -- I'm sorry, last quarter. Brian Levine -- Citigroup -- Analyst Okay, great. And then in terms of going into the second quarter, are you seeing that directionally move up relative to this past quarter? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Yeah. As we look into our third and fourth fiscal quarters I mean we do see the opportunity for a modest uptick in the -- in those spreads. But as I indicated, with the maintenance work that we have planned for the pipe -- the summer, combined with the effect of the Rider REV mechanism and how we share -- 75% of that upside benefit flows back to the tariff customers on APT, we expect that to -- that impact to be modest for us. Brian Levine -- Citigroup -- Analyst Okay. And then last question. To the extent that you're able to comment, is there any update on the Georgetown incident? Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Sure and let me -- for others on the call, with the Georgetown situation is pretty much behind us right now. It goes back to February 20th and there was a leak reported. We responded and identified two leaks and repaired those leaks and then what we identified was residual gas in the soil that had migrated and that led us to evacuate up to at a peak 85 structures that affected approximately 140 combined businesses and residents. And then we worked on getting that residual gas out of the soil. So all the evacuations have been listed except for one business and during this process, we provided financial support and we've been processing any claims for affected businesses and residences. We've got business interruption in insurance we believe will cover any cost that they get into that territory and we don't expect the impact. So we don't expect the impact to be material on the year, but that's largely behind us and I'll tell you about our team did, just an absolutely phenomenal job of responding to the situation there, working with the community and with all the regulators and city and state leaders. Brian Levine -- Citigroup -- Analyst Okay, great. That's all from me. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Thank you, Brian. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Thanks, Brian. Operator Thank you. (Operator Instructions) Our next question is coming from Dennis Coleman from Bank of America. Your line is now live. Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Dennis, good morning. Dennis Coleman -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Good morning -- good morning, everyone. This maybe a question that has a little more detail than this now, I'm happy to take it offline if you would like. But I'm wondering there's quite a big swing in cash flow and I'm sort of working through the various statements trying to figure out where this is coming from. But is there a simple explanation we said drop of close to $200 million in cash flow for the six months? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Virtually all of that is the timing of the -- of our deferred gas cost recoveries. We were somewhat over-recovered last year and we began working that balance down, returning those monies back to customers through the PGA and that continued into this year. So that -- that's virtually all of the decrease. And that was planned as we moved into fiscal '19. Dennis Coleman -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Okay. So that's all encompassed in the financing plans and whatnot. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Exactly. Dennis Coleman -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst So that will sort of this -- the 2019 run rate is more of what we should expect... Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Yeah, it should level out now that after we kind of got into a situation where last year, we just moved a lot of volumes because it was cold and this happens to us from time to time under those PGA mechanisms in every jurisdiction got a different time period in which those rates are reset and so we're just working through that standard process. So we should be back to more on the call the day quote-unquote normal run rate going forward. Dennis Coleman -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Okay, thanks. And then just to make sure I understand the equity forwards. Are you able to do sort of 5s and 10s on this, are there -- does that have to be discrete draws or is there one-time mechanism and does -- are there any differences in that regard or the $106 million related to the S&P 500 move versus the prior forward? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Well, there are couple of things. We issued the forwards in February under the ATM program. So -- and we could -- you can go out and issue shares on a daily basis, if you want. In the past where we've executed what I would call more of a regular way of the issuance where we were taken those shares and it would become diluted daily as we move forward. This forward -- or the ATM program that we stood out last fall, we added a forward feature to it and that gives us the ability to access the market on a daily basis and then basically allocate those shares under forward arrangements. So it could be a daily, it can be around an unplanned liquidity event like we did in February. It's all subject to the average daily trading volumes in kind of what and how ATM programs generally works. So we don't have any specifics around. We have to target this, we've to target that. We'll just -- we look the market conditions and we'll take advantage for our pricing as we see it. Dennis Coleman -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst But when you actually call for the cash, are there any limits in that regard? Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer No. No. The only limit we have is that, we have to utilize all of the forwards and all of that cash of those net proceeds under those arrangements by March 31 of 2020 when those arrangements expire. Dennis Coleman -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst Okay, that's it from me. Thanks. Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer All right. Thanks, Dennis. Operator Thank you. And we reached the end of our question-and-answer session. I'd like to turn the floor back over to management for any further or closing comments. Jennifer P. Hills -- Vice President, Investor Relations Thank you for joining us today. A recording of this call is available for a replay on our website through August 8th, 2019. We appreciate your interest in Atmos Energy and again, thank you for joining us. Goodbye. Duration: 35 minutes Call participants: Jennifer P. Hills -- Vice President, Investor Relations Christopher T. Forsythe -- Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Michael E. Haefner -- President, Chief Executive Officer and Director Christopher Turnure -- JPMorgan & Company -- Analyst Charles Fishman -- Morningstar, Inc. -- Analyst David Arcaro -- Morgan Stanley -- Analyst Brian Levine -- Citigroup -- Analyst Dennis Coleman -- Bank of America Merrill Lynch -- Analyst More ATO analysis All earnings call transcripts What happened Newmont Goldcorp (NYSE:NEM) was among the worst-performing gold stocks in April, losing 13.2% value according to data provided by S&P Global Market Intelligence. April 2019 will also go down in the history books of Newmont, as it finally acquired Goldcorp to form the world's largest gold company. While that seemed to have triggered a fall in the stock price initially, two other developments kept the stock under pressure through the month. So what Newmont's announcement that it would acquire Goldcorp earlier this year in an all-stock deal worth $10 billion faced opposition from some of its largest shareholders, who believed the company was overpaying for Goldcorp. Later in March, Newmont paid out a special dividend of $0.88 to appease the shareholders and won its way, finally closing the acquisition on April 18. Newmont shares, however, tumbled soon after for no apparent reason, though investors may have been miffed by the debt the miner acquired along with Goldcorp. However, on April 25, Newmont revealed that it paid off $1.25 billion of Goldcorp's outstanding debt and ended its first quarter with a fairly strong balance sheet, including cash and equivalents balance of $3.6 billion. Newmont's Q1 profit, however, more than halved on a marginal dip in sales, thanks to "integration and transaction costs" related to the Goldcorp acquisition and a Nevada joint venture with Barrick Gold (NYSE:GOLD). Weak gold prices further fueled pessimism in the stock. In another development, Newmont announced the temporary shutdown of Goldcorp's flagship mine in Mexico, Penasquito, on April 29 following a blockade that began in late March. While management claimed the blockade didn't hit production in Q1, investors want to see Penasquito up and running soon, because the mine is expected to generate maximum synergies for Newmont from its Goldcorp acquisition. Investors also seemed disappointed at Newmont's outlook, which calls for gold production of 5.2 million ounces in 2019, 4.9 million ounces in 2020, and anything between 4.4 million and 4.9 million ounces per year through 2023. But here's the thing: Newmont's outlook does not include the impact of Goldcorp acquisition and its joint venture with Barrick. Now what The market seems to be paying no heed to the fact that Newmont's actual production numbers should be much higher once it integrates Goldcorp -- Goldcorp produced nearly 2.3 million ounces of gold in fiscal 2018, after all, and the combined company has the largest gold reserves and asset base in the world. In fact, some weeks prior to the acquisition, Newmont gave out a targeted sustainable annual production of 6 million to 7 million ounces of gold for the combined company. At the same time, Newmont's joint venture with Barrick in the lucrative Nevada region is no small potatoes. In short, Newmont has a lot to look forward to, which is why the drop in its share price in April appears overdone. When the share price of a stock on your watch list takes a healthy leap upward, it's natural to feel like you've missed the boat. "I should have pulled the trigger and bought last month, or last week," you may say to yourself. "Now, it's too late." But is it really? In this mailbag segment from the Rule Breaker Investing podcast, a listener whose hesitation cost him a piece of Disney's (NYSE:DIS) double-digit percentage rise in April wants to know what to do now. Buy immediately? Wait and hope for a pullback? Give up and move on? To help answer that question, host and Motley Fool co-founder David Gardner has brought back frequent guest Bill Mann, the Fool's global director of small-cap research. To catch full episodes of all The Motley Fool's free podcasts, check out our podcast center. A full transcript follows the video. This video was recorded on April 24, 2019. David Gardner: Let me share one more mailbag item with you, Bill, get your quick input on this one. This comes from Kevin Marcotte. Kevin writes, "Hi, David. Love your podcast along with the many others from The Motley Fool, all helping entertain, educate me on daily commutes from work. I'm also a proud member of the Stock Advisor Canada service. Hope to continue as a member for a long time. "As you guessed from the title," which was FOMO, basically, "my question for you this month is one that comes with some anxiety. About two weeks ago, I'd saved enough money, I was ready to purchase my latest stock, Disney. Life quickly got in the way. Time slipped by, all while my savings sat in cash waiting to be deployed. I had mixed emotions when I heard Disney's latest plans during its investor day about its details on its new Disney+ movie rental service. I was happy to see the stock soaring over 11% on the news. However, I felt very foolish for forgetting to purchase the stock earlier that week. Now I'm sitting here feeling like I missed out on the pop and the opportunity to purchase the stock has passed." Bill Mann: My simple question is this: Would you have bought the stock in order to gain 11%? Is that your end goal? Maybe we should come up with a new acronym or a portmanteau. We'll call it ReBi, recency bias. Yes, the stock went up very quickly in the last two weeks on the heels of this announcement. I suspect that there will be challenges behind this announcement as they roll it out. I think you're going to get plenty of opportunities. But if Disney is the company that you wanted to own 11% ago, it's still the company that you want to own today. Gardner: That is so well put! Kevin closes by saying, "Maybe I'll let the stock ride out the news a bit before ultimately buying anyway? Buy it right away, knowing I believe that long-term the company is going to beat the market. I realize this may be small in the long term." And I think with that line, he's showing, Bill, that he has the Foolish mentality ultimately. I love your concept of, would you have bought that stock just for that 11% gain? I don't think many of us would. I know all of us here at The Motley Fool focus on the businesses themselves, not the stock price movements. Always thinking about three-plus years. We wouldn't ever do it that way. Mann: Absolutely not! Gardner: So are you saying to Kevin, just go out and buy it now? Mann: Here's what I would say. If you really do actually feel bad that the stock has moved, maybe especially if you've gone and gotten your free trades from your broker, buy a little bit. Get a stake in the ground. You can buy more over time. Don't worry about the fact that you have missed what's happened over the last two weeks. No more ReBi. Let's just get into the mindset of buying for the long term. You will be just fine. Disney is about as good a vehicle as you can get to get there. Gardner: Thank you, Bill! Mann: You're welcome, David! Thanks for having me! Paul Atanga Nji Minat Cameroons Minister of Territorial Administration, Atanga Nji Paul has told the international community that the situation in the restive North West and South West regions is under control, while most Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are returning home. Minister Atanga Nji was speaking to the press shortly after a meeting with Prime Minister Dion Ngute Joseph to evaluate how the National Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Committee has fared five months after its creation. Over 75, 000 IDPs have received aid from President Paul Biyas FCFA 12.7 billion Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Plan for the North West and South West Regions relief package, Minister Atanga Nji told the Prime Minister, Head of Government. The Prime Minister, Head of Government instructed me to make a presentation on the balance sheet of what has been done with regards to the emergency humanitarian plan. As for now, more than 75,000 IDPs have received the humanitarian aid from the Head of State. It includes food and non-food items, health facilities and some materials to reconstruct private properties destroyed as well as financial assistance, Atanga Nji said. He goes on to add that: We made an assessment and we have not more than 152,000 IDPs in Cameroon. The figures are clear. We have gone under thorough investigation. We have asked all the administrative authorities and the NGOs working with us to give us specific statistics and after monitoring all the situation on the field, we went to the 34 subdivisions of the North West regions and the 31 subdivisions of the South West regions and the statistics clearly show that we have 152,000 IDPs and about 6,000 who are in the West, Littoral and Centre regions. Atanga Nji refutes claims that more than 500,000 persons are internally displaced. I have heard of statistics talking about 500,000 IDPs. Those are fake statistics. You know that 500,000 people cannot be somewhere and be hidden. The good news is that even the IDPs are going back to their different localities because for some time now, thanks to the wonderful work done by the military, and the confidence building between the local administrative authorities and the forces of law and order, the families are going back to their different localities. The International Crisis Group however insists that in the last 20 months, the conflict in Cameroons North West and South West Regions has left 1,850 dead, 530,000 internally displaced and tens of thousands of refugees. Atanga Nji said aside putting the Prime Minister up to speed with the humanitarian assistance plan, he also sent a message to the international community that everything is well controlled, everything is under control. It was revealed at the first session of the National Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration Committee that 165 ex-fighters have laid down their weapons and are now receiving new skills in centres in Mora, Buea and Bamenda. There are said to be 35 ex-fighters in Bamenda, 21 in Buea and 109 in Mora. IDPs in Buea registering to receive government aid Atia Azohnwi Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) residing in Buea Subdivision have called on government to speedily resolve the deepening crisis in Cameroons North West and South West regions so they can return to their homes and livelihoods. Agnes Malaba was speaking Tuesday, May 7, 2019 on behalf of IDPs in Buea as over 500 of them turned out at the Buea Council premises to receive relief material as part of President Paul Biyas FCFA 12.7 billion Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Plan for the North West and South West Regions. While expressing gratitude to government for the support, Ms Malaba said they cannot continue living on aid all their lives. We want an end to the crisis that forced us out of our homes. We want to return to our homes and livelihoods. For the third time since June 2018, IDPs thronged the premises of the Buea Council to register and be counted among beneficiaries of the presidential aid. The items had been previewed for 200 IDPs, but over 500 of them turned up with the hope of returning with their own share of the groceries, mattresses, blankets, rice, soaps, and toiletries among others. The aid was handed to the beneficiaries by the Mayor of Buea, Ekema Patrick Esunge in the presence of officials of the department of civil protection of the Ministry of Territorial Administration. Despite the influx, Ekema said theirs is to ensure that the IDPs at least have something to hold on to. We previewed for 200 persons, but the council is heavily flooded with a population slightly above 500. It becomes very difficult, but I think one fundamental principle in life is to have the notion of sharing. The first persons who registered were 200. They will benefit and the rest of the items will also be shared to the others. The council has added its voice to that of the state by providing an extra consignment of 100 bags of rice to ensure that we reach out to everybody, Ekema said. Ekema enjoined those present to lure their children and relatives in the bushes to lay down their arms and be rehabilitated. He said President Paul Biyas olive branch extended to the fighters should be received so that peace can return. After a 16-year hiatus, A&W Restaurants returned to Singapore in April, opening a company-owned flagship restaurant in the country's new Jewel Changi Airport. The airport is both an urban center for local residents and an international hub. Open 24 hours, the 80-seat A&W is testing menu and service initiatives to be used in future locations in the country. A&W's history in Singapore traces back more than 50 years. In 1966, A&W was the first U.S. quick-service restaurant to enter the country. Apparently, it has not been forgotten: during opening week, guests waited up to 3 hours for the brand's signature Root Beer Floats and Coney Dogs, as well as other "all-American" and regional favorites. The new location is the latest of at least 45 international and domestic locations the company expects to open this year -- 35 of them across Southeast Asia, where A&W is focusing much of its international expansion. This time, said Kelvin Tan, director of marketing and communication for A&W International, the company intends to stay and is planning to open a second restaurant in the country in June, with a third scheduled for next year. The Singapore outlet is managed directly by A&W Restaurants. "We could have easily gone for a franchising concept... but as a company-owned store, it offers us greater control over what we want to do for the menu," said Tan in local publications. One of those plans is to cater to the local Muslim community, which accounts for about 15% of the country's population, or about 1 in 7 people over age 15. "The Muslim community formed a very big chunk of our business, and I think right now we will continue to respect and recognize that this particular market is very important to us," said Tan. He said the menu already is "Muslim friendly" with no pork or lard, and that A&W plans to seek halal certification with the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore. This growth push comes as A&W prepares to mark its 100th anniversary (June 20) with its Second Century Growth Initiative. In the U.S., A&W has 17 franchised U.S. restaurants in various stages of development, with five set to open in May and June. Two new franchisees recently signed agreements for restaurants in Las Vegas and Tonopah, Nevada, with the Tonopah A&W the brand's first hotel and casino location. New development agreements also were signed earlier this year for Bingham Lake, Minnesota, Prescott Valley, Arizona, and Yermo, California. Earlier this year, A&W announced an incentive plan consisting of lower royalties for new U.S. franchisees. There are currently more than 960 A&W restaurants worldwide, 597 in the U.S. and 372 in Asia. "Since A&W franchisees acquired the company in 2011, we've been working to rebuild the brand worldwide," said CEO Kevin Bazner. "The amazing responses to our Singapore return, combined with the interest we are seeing from new U.S. franchisees, clearly show that A&W is a second-century growth brand." Editor's Note: Kevin Bazner will be profiled in the next issue of Franchise Update magazine, due out in late May/early June. San Martin Artisan Bakery & Restaurant, a family-owned brand from Guatemala, has opened its first U.S. unit. Located in Dallas's Uptown section, the 7,800-sq. ft. restaurant was built out in a former art gallery and seats more than 200. San Martin had opened 50 restaurants in Guatemala and El Salvador, with most in Guatemala, before coming to the U.S. The family owned and operated business was founded in Guatemala in 1974 by Andres Castillo. Gabriel Castillo, his son, will lead the brand's U.S. operations. Why Dallas? Gabriel Castillo's older brother attended college at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, and his sister attended art school in the area, which led the family to choose the city for the brand's U.S. debut, according to Nation's Restaurant News. "San Martin is a Latin concept," Gabriel Castillo said in the Dallas Observer. "Everything that we do is Latin or European. We have European recipes, like Italian and French food, and we specialize in European pastries and breads. We also have Latin breads." Everything is made from scratch, and San Martin is open for breakfast through dinner. "Our menu is pretty broad," Castillo said. "We have everything from soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas... and everything we do is made from scratch. All the soups, dressings and sauces are made in-house." In addition to the full-service restaurant, there also is a retail bakery for ordering pastries, breads, cakes, coffee, and other treats to go. San Martin offers its own Guatemalan coffee in both the restaurant and take-out sections. "We acquired a roastery about six years ago, so everything that we serve is roasted by us," Castillo said. "We buy the best beans available in Guatemala, directly from the farmers. We do a light roast profile because it brings the best flavors out of the coffee." Is this the start of something big? "When you expand a company, it takes a great effort, no matter where you expand," he said. "But the reward is greater in the U.S. because it's such a big market." (Should Panera be worried?) German Doner Kebab Announces North American Expansion Plans May 08, 2019 // Franchising.com // German Doner Kebab, which is part of the Hero Brands fast-casual portfolio, has announced plans to expand across North America. Franchises have been signed in Canadas Ontario and British Columbia provinces and negotiations are underway to open outlets in Manhattan and New Jersey in the USA. The brand expects five stores to be opened in 2019. The brand has also developed a partnership with one of the USAs most successful franchise entrepreneurs. Texas-based Tanweer Ahmed has signed a development agreement for an initial 12 GDK outlets in Houston, Dallas and Las Vegas which will be rolled-out over the next two years. The partnership with German Doner Kebab further grows Mr Ahmeds portfolio, which includes 153 KFC outlets, 58 Pizza Huts and 24 Taco Bells. Global CEO, Imran Sayeed, said: The USA offers a huge opportunity for GDK and we are excited to be embarking on an aggressive growth strategy for the region. Our idea of bringing a gourmet kebab that is healthy and nutritionally balanced has truly resonated with consumers and our ambition will be to disrupt and open-up a new area of the fast-casual market place. He added: Tanweer Ahmed is the perfect partner for us he shares our brand vision and brings great experience in the fast-casual space. We are looking forward to our first opening in Texas and working closely with Tanweer in his development area to bring the German Doner Kebab experience to the US consumer. Tanweer Ahmed said: German Doner Kebab is a disruptive fast-casual concept that has been a phenomenal hit with consumers in Europe and the Middle East. Ive been truly struck by the vision and energy of the senior team and their ambitions to bring the brand experience to US consumers. Im excited to be partnering with them and utilising all of shared expertise and infrastructure to launch and grow German Doner Kebab in key development areas including Houston, Dallas and Las Vegas. German Doner Kebab currently operates stores in the UK, Sweden, Dubai, Abu-Dhabi, Oman and Bahrain. The North American growth plans follows news that the brand is embarking on plans to expand into Saudi Arabia. The Ajlan and Brothers Group has been signed-up as the master franchisee, with a development agreement of 100 stores over the next ten years. About German Doner Kebab "Doner Kebab" is a fast food retailer that has created a healthy and nutritionally balanced approach to traditional kebabs. We opened our first store in Berlin in 1989 and spent the next decade perfecting our policies and procedures, our unique blend of traditional spices and exclusive products, as well as refining and improving our innovative cooking processes. Our tried and tested methods are totally different to the way other operators make their kebabs. The result is a nutritionally sound gourmet food experience that contains virtually no preservatives or additives and can be consumed day or night. With a strong modern brand and the promotion of healthy, fresh, nutritious ingredients that appeals to a broad market, "Doner Kebab" can only continue to grow and succeed. Media Contacts: Neil McDonald neil@mediazoo.tv 07428 398 402 / 0141 471 8399 Ross Henderson ross@mediazoo.tv 07954 995 104 / 0141 471 8399 Jessica Leslie jessica@mediazoo.tv 07867 763 724 / 0141 471 8399 SOURCE German Doner Kebab ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Scooters Coffee Adds First Coffee Drive-Thru Location To Carroll, IA New Store To Celebrate Grand Opening On Friday, May 17 May 08, 2019 // Franchising.com // Carroll, IA - Scooters Coffee, the Midwest-based coffee franchise that has experienced tremendous growth over the past year, added its first location in Carroll, IA, with the companys latest opening at 709 West Highway 30. To celebrate, the location will be hosting a Grand Opening on Friday, May 17, with giveaways throughout the day. Carroll has already proven to be a great location for Scooters Coffee, stated Mike Rogers, Chief Operating Officer of Scooters Coffee. The excitement in the community has been more than we could have ever hoped for, and were excited to continue to serve up our world-class coffee and smiles for Carroll residents. On Grand Opening Day, customers can expect to receive several fun giveaways: 10 a.m. - First 100 customers will receive a free $5 gift card with purchase 1 p.m. - First 50 customers will receive a free Scooters Coffee tumbler with purchase 4 p.m. - First 50 customers will receive a free Scooters Coffee t-shirt with purchase Franchisees Lindsey and Blake Jochim own this location. The town of Carroll felt like a fit for us right away, said Lindsey. The community has truly welcomed us with open arms, and it has already been a rewarding experience serving up coffee to the residents. We look forward to meeting and getting to know all of our Carroll customers! Scooters Coffee serves coffee, smoothies, tea, blenders, iced drinks, pastries and more. In addition, the brand offers a mobile app. The app allows customers to quickly pay for purchases by scanning a barcode linked to a registered Scooters Coffee gift card. The app also includes a loyalty program and other features. Acting as a digital punch card, customers earn smiley faces when they use the app for purchases, then can redeem their smiley faces for a free drink after collecting 12. In addition, the app will enable customers to access special offers, view the nearest locations, browse the full Scooters Coffee menu and track purchases. In line with their successful and robust grand opening strategy, Scooters Coffee recently opened five locations throughout Kansas and Missouri, opened the second of many locations in Arkansas and is opening additional locations in markets such as Dallas, Texas and Northern Colorado. Scooters Coffee is a drive-thru franchise that has been serving world-class coffee for over 20 years. It roasts only the finest beans, and it makes that first-morning sip convenient and rewarding for its customers across the nation. Scooters Coffee has over 200 locations in 14 states and has over 200 franchise commitments to build new stores. To find out why Scooters Coffee is among the best coffee franchises in the nation and to learn more about franchise opportunities, visit ownascooters.com. About Scooters Coffee Founded in 1998 by Don and Linda Eckles in Bellevue, Nebraska, Scooters Coffee roasts only the finest coffee beans in the world at its headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. In more than two decades of business, Scooters Coffees success is simple: stay committed to the original business principles and company core values. The Scooters Coffee Brand Promise often recited to franchisees, customers and employees is: Amazing People, Amazing Drinks Amazingly Fast! It represents the companys business origins from 1998 and reflects a steady commitment to providing an unforgettable experience to loyal and new customers. Scooters Coffee is at the dawn of a strategic growth phase in the Midwest and nationwide. The U.S. coffee market is an estimated $48 billion a year recession-resistant industry, and Scooters Coffee is striving to become the #1 drive-thru coffee franchise in the nation. Visit ownascooters.com to learn more about the benefits of owning a franchise of a well-established company. For more information, visit scooterscoffee.com, facebook.com/scooterscoffee, ownascooters.com or call 877-494-7004. SOURCE Scooters Coffee ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Venture X Growth Continues with Opening of New Facility in Richmond New Coworking Space Opens at Popular Scott's Addition RICHMOND, VA, May 08, 2019 /24-7PressRelease/ - Venture X, a premium membership-based workspace community for entrepreneurs and businesses, recently announced plans for a grand opening at their newest location in Richmond, VA. According to franchisee, Harry Vinson, the official grand opening of the new $1.8 million, 18,211-square-foot Venture X facility in Richmond will take place on Thursday, May 9, 2019. Located at the highly desired Scott's Addition, 1806 Summit Ave, Suite 300, the new coworking office space will help meet the demand for workspace and growth in the community. Venture X is one of the companies and brands affiliated with United Franchise Group (UFG) of brands. "I worked closely with UFG and Venture X for nearly a year to find the best location for the newest shared workspace facility," said Vinson. "Scott's Addition is a highly attractive and in-demand area that complements the Venture X reputation and clientele. We are thrilled to bring these top-notch services to the Richmond area and cater to the diverse base of entrepreneurs and businesses in our community." Both individual and company memberships are available at Venture X Richmond. "The memberships include a wide variety of amenities and the pricing is right," said Vinson. "It's a turn-key operation, so people can focus on getting their job done and growing their business. It is a great community environment for companies and individual entrepreneurs." Hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with 24-hour access for members. For more information, call 804-215-1997 or visit https://www.venturex.com/locations/virginia/richmond/. Harry Vinson has more than 30 years of experience in the area of manufacturing with specific focus in the sectors of the printing, graphics, labels, packaging and visual media industries. Throughout his professional career, he has served in executive and leadership positions with billion-dollar organizations, including Komori North America, Cenveo, Moore Wallace North America, as well as Quebecor World. He's also served on the Board Of Directors for tech companies XyEnterprises and KnowledgeWorks Global. "I was drawn to Venture X's sound business model, which attracts a large audience in a quickly growing industry," added Vinson. "We are delighted to make this first-class office space accessible to our business community." About Venture X Venture X is a shared workspace and community that is a blend of boutique hotel and modern office styles with a high level of design that feels professional and welcoming. We are designing beautiful spaces and developing an environment and community that people love coming to work to every day. Venture X is part of a successful group of affiliated companies and brands under the United Franchise Group (UFG) and has been recognized by Inc. as one of the best co-working spaces in the United States. The brand anticipates having 100 locations operational by the end of 2022. For more information about locations visit www.VentureX.com and for information about franchise opportunities visit www.venturexfranchise.com. About United Franchise Group Led by CEO Ray Titus, United Franchise Group is home to a variety of internationally recognized brands including Signarama, Fully Promoted, Experimac, Jon Smith Subs, Venture X, SuperGreen Solutions, Transworld Business Advisors, Accurate Franchising, Network Lead Exchange, and The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill. With more than three decades in the franchising industry, and 1,600 franchisees in 80 countries throughout the world, United Franchise Group offers unprecedented leadership and solid business opportunities for entrepreneurs. Media Contact: Victoria Segovia Ink Link Marketing Voice: 305-631-2283 SOURCE Venture X ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus GCE Board W. Musa Examinations organised by the Cameroon General Certificate of Education Board (CGCEB) in all centres across Cameroon have started with the practical phase. The practicals that started on Thursday May 2, 2019, with candidates of both Advanced Level General and Technical Education having Computer Sciences during the morning session and Food Sciences in the afternoon. Thus far, the examinations are unfolding hitchfree. Candidates who spoke under condition of anonymity, for fear of reprisals, expressed satisfaction that the practical session was within their reach. The practical session is scheduled to culminate on Saturday May 25, 2019, at both the General and Technical A/L with Information & Communication Technology III in the afternoon session on that day. It will then open the way for the written phase on May 27, 2019. On our findings to ascertain the number of candidates, the conduct of the examination, number of practical centres, those recruited for secretariat duties among others, all officials beginning from the Chiefs of Centre maintained sealed lips while directing us to the Cameroon General Certificate of Education Board head office in Buea. When we caught up with the Register of CGCEB, Dang Akuh Dominic, he turned down our request for any comments pleading that the media should leave the Board allow to quietly run the examinations, Cameroon Tribune reports. Meantime, Some 104,502 candidates have registered to sit this year's session of exams organised by the Cameroon General Certificate of Education (GCE) Board when the written phase begins on May 27. Dominic Dang Akuh, Registrar of the Board told reporters in Yaounde that the figures for the 2019 session of the GCE exams witnessed a 17-percent drop in registration. He was speaking April 23, 2019 a few weeks to the official start of the exams. Akuh used the opportunity to present a report on the state of preparedness of the Board. He said they are ready for the take off of the 2019 session. In 2018 67.4% of candidates who sat the exams passed at the Advanced Level as against 35% in 2017. At the Ordinary Level, 50% passed compared to 25.29% in 2017. The exams this year, like last year are taking place within a very peculiar context in the North West and South West regions. Most schools have remained shutdown and even those that are operational have a nose-diving enrolment. Cameroon's security and defence forces have been battling armed men fighting for the independence of a country they call Ambazonia. This has kept many students at home. A man who has been wanted for a homicide in Washington, D.C., since July of last year was apprehended Tuesday at a home in Westmoreland County, authorities said. Marcus Whitaker, 28, is charged in D.C. with murder and using a firearm in the commission of a felony. Westmoreland Sheriff C.O. Balderson said about 30 law enforcement officers went to a home in the 1400 block of Nomini Grove Road after receiving information from the U.S. Marshals Service. Whitaker and a resident of the home, Tarry Jeron TJ Wilson, were both taken into custody without incident. Wilson was not a target of the initial raid, but police obtained a search warrant for the home after seeing drugs while apprehending Whitaker, Balderson said. Wilson was charged with possession of illegal drugs with the intent to distribute. Balderson said 2 grams of cocaine, 8 ounces of marijuana, two firearms and $2,787 in cash were seized in the second raid. Whitaker had been wanted since the July 27, 2018, slaying of 22-year-old David Hart in Southeast D.C. Balderson said he does not know how long Whitaker had been in Westmoreland, but federal authorities contacted the Sheriffs Office a few days before the raid. A local man was killed Tuesday when he lost control of his vehicle on Interstate 95, overturned several times and was ejected, police said. Virginia State Police Sgt. Brent Coffey said the single-vehicle crash took place at 10:26 a.m. a little less than a mile north of the Massaponax exit. The victim, 61-year-old Garry T. Bryant of Fredericksburg, was heading south in a 2002 Toyota Tacoma when he lost control, ran off the left side of the highway and overturned. Bryant, who police said was not wearing a seat belt, was pronounced dead at the scene. Trooper D.J. Jablonski is continuing to investigate the crash, Coffey said. State police were assisted by the Virginia Department of Transportation and Spotsylvania County Fire and EMS. The southbound lanes were closed while police and rescue workers tended to the victim and investigated the crash. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Brooke Point High Schools Inspire Virginia cluba student-led organization aimed at increasing youth voter registrationhas won a 2019 Governors Award for the third consecutive year. The award is for meeting the criteria of the Governors Voter Registration Challenge by registering at least 65 percent of the eligible senior class. Brooke Point is the only school in the state to meet this criteria, according to a news release from Stafford County Public Schools. It is critical that young people have a voice in the political process. I applaud the students at Brooke Point for their accomplishment, Superintendent Scott Kizner said in the press release. Brooke Points Inspire Virginia club leaders tried to identify class members who would be 18 by the November 2018 election, and worked to register those students. On April 9, the club held a voter registration rally, inviting local elected officials and Congressman Rob Wittman to speak. Virginia Secretary of Education Atif Qarni also attended. Students were able to register immediately after the rally. Its really a great project, PRTC Executive Director Bob Schneider said of the Stafford commuter bus proposal. He said the idea is that the new bus service will integrate with other commuting options, but he also thinks it will help cut down on congestion by pulling slugging commuters to the buses. Schneider said only projects that benefit the toll payers in the corridor can gain funding through the I395 express lanes agreement, and he thinks the Stafford bus service has a solid chance of coming to fruition. The heavy usage of the more than 1,800-space Staffordboro lot indicates a screaming demand for high-volume commuters, Schneider said. He pointed out that the new bus routes, specifically to the Pentagon, are high-volume and could be better served by buses. Schneider said adding commuter buses to the express lanes could take cars off those lanes, in turn lowering the toll rates. That could then lead to more cars getting off the primary lanes to use the express lanes, he said. He said Staffordboro would be the first phase of PRTCs increased commuter bus service, which could extend south, depending on demand and infrastructure improvements. Nlohe locals in shock Screen grab Three children in Nlohe in Manjo Subdivision, Moungo Division of Cameroons Littoral region died Monday May 6, 2019 after consuming fish laced with rat poison. James, Adonai and Marcelin, respectively seven, four and three years old are said to have consumed fish that had been poisoned to kill rats in their neighbour's house. The three children ate the fish that was reserved for rats in a corner of a nearby house. The substance was not supposed to be exposed to the reach of children, a local told Equinoxe TV. The poisonous fish is said to have been kept in a neighbours kitchen. After consuming it, the three children are said to have complained of stomach disorder. Before they were rushed to the emergency unit of the local hospital, one of the children had died. The other two died in hospital. "I came to the scene when one of the children had already died," says the quarter head of Nlohe. He adds that two others died in hospital. Though neighbours suggest the kids died from fish poisoned to kill rats, the quarter head says he is waiting for the findings of security officers and medics to be made public. Gendarmerie officers in Manjo are said to have discovered the containing that held the poison substance late Monday night after a thorough search. The head of the family was taken by security officers for investigations to determine the exact circumstances that led to the poisoning of the three kids of the same household, while the woman alleged to have poisoned the fish is said to be at large. She had laced fish with rat poison to get rid of rats and other rodents. Unfortunately for the children, they came in her absence and ate the poisoned food that led to their death. Experts advise that other means, non-lethal to humans, should be applied to kill rats and other rodents. They also advise the choice of a rodenticide that is designed for use at home: read the label to choose the right product for your pest problem, place it according to label instructions, and place bait and bait stations where children and pets can't see or reach them. Conway Elementary School fourth-grader Jackson Payne was recognized as a hero this week by Staffords emergency responders for not only saving his mothers life, but also his younger brothers in a separate incident several days later. The first happened April 9, when Jennifer Payne of Stafford County met her two sonsJackson and Zacharyat the bus stop to walk them home. It was not the normal routine for Payne, who had been resting at home due to a lifelong medical condition. Since birth, Payne has had a rare congenital heart disease. I knew that things were going downhill, and I had been taking it easy hoping to get in with a specialist at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, but I went up to the bus stop anyway, instead of having my neighbor get the kids, Payne said. I was having chest pains on the way back home from the bus. Payne told 9-year-old Jackson, You have to help get mommy home, somethings not right. Jackson got his mother safely into the house, but on her way upstairs to lie down, Payne experienced massive chest pains and collapsed on the stairway, losing consciousness. The attack came days after Taliban insurgents resumed peace talks with U.S. officials in Qatar. A nationwide gathering of 3,000 Afghans last week called for an immediate cease-fire and an end to the 17-year war, but the Taliban said it had no intention of laying down its arms. During five years in power, the Taliban movement banned all gender-mixing and prevented women from working or studying outside the home. Many Afghan women have expressed fears that a peace deal with the Taliban would allow the group to bring back such harsh religious rules. Wednesday's attack was the first claimed by the Taliban in Kabul in more than a month, but it came just two weeks after armed men attacked a multi-story government ministry in downtown Kabul. At least seven people were killed in the attack, and security forces had to evacuate hundreds of office workers before the assailants were slain. That attack was claimed by the Islamic State. During Wednesday's attack, police said one vehicle laden with explosives and possibly driven by a suicide bomber was detonated outside Counterpart's office in the upscale commercial Shahr-e Now district. GOV. Ralph Northams declaration that he would reject any future legislation that includes mandatory sentencing minimums represents flawed governance that takes a U-turn when a veer is whats needed. We understand that the governor is on a personal and political crusade to redeem himself for the lapses in judgment that resulted in the blackface/Klansman photo in his medical school yearbook, his admission that he applied shoe polish to his face for a talent show performance as Michael Jackson, and his nickname notation of Coonman in his VMI yearbook. Since he is the states chief executive, this is one way Northam can use his position to both assuage his guilt and profess his good intentions. And indeed, studies have shown that people of color have been disproportionately affected by the application of mandatory minimum sentences, which have contributed mightily to the explosion over the past 30 years of this nations world-leading rate of incarceration. Even as President Trump has demanded that prosecutors seek the harshest possible sentences, he has also joined broad calls for criminal justice reform and granted clemency to a woman who had served 22 years of a mandatory life sentence for a nonviolent drug-related conviction. les gendarmes pendant le defile Internet Local officials of Uyo local government area of Akwa Ibom State have revealed that Cameroonian gendarmes attacked a fishing community called Ababa, around the Bakassi Peninsula, killing dozens and taking along some denizens. The Village Head of Ifa Ikot Akpan in Uyo, Etteidung Eden Ebong CIA said to have confirmed the incidents to Nigerian journalists in Uyo, as he stated that most of the victims were Akwa Ibom indigenes. He also claimed that several others have been abducted and detained at the detention facility in Cameroon, while many have gone missing. Nigerian news organ, This Day, said Etebong Bassey, a fisherman, who escaped the incident and fled into his community in the coastal community of Uruan Local Government Area, stated the unresolved problem of multiple taxations by Akwa Ibom and Cameroonian authorities triggered the violent act. As fishermen, we have been paying multiple taxes to different authorities for Akwa Ibom and Cameroon for several years now and the youths became angry and protested over the issue. So, the Gendarmes cash in on the protest and invaded the communities within the Shell Creek area, he explained. According to the victim, three days ago, some fishermen who are indigenes of Uyo and Uruan, who visited home for a funeral ceremony were forced to return on their way back to Abana, when they got a distress call that their homes in Abana had been invaded and several people killed, some abducted and properties destroyed by gendarmes from Cameroon. The local chief has made an appeal to top Nigerian officials for urgent intervention to rescue the missing victims. Yes, the victims returned with tales of woes in my palace here. They told me their settlements at Abana had been destroyed with over 40 of them killed, while several others were arrested on trump up allegations of starting the problem that degenerated into a full blown crisis, he said. Therefore, I want to use this opportunity to kindly look into the crisis and communicate to appropriate authorities in the area to help release our people from captivity and save their lives as many of those affected are from my domain, Etteidung Ebong said. However, Pastor Ekikere Umoh, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Obong Moses Ekpo, the states Deputy Governor, whose office is in-charge of boundary matters, said: the office of the Deputy Governor has no business with communal wars. Cameroonian authorities are yet to comment on these claims. HRM Dr. Engineer Robert Esuka Endeley Facebook The Paramount Chief designate of the Buea First Class Chiefdom, HRM Dr. Robert Esuka Endeley has in a statement dated Tuesday, May 7, 2019, called on all the Chiefs and population of the Chiefdom of Buea to not yield to calls to boycott National Day celebrations in Buea. The statement was read Wednesday May 8 at the Second Preparatory Meeting ahead of the May 20 celebrations. He calls on the chiefs and the populace to show proof of patriotism and loyalty to the State and Republican institutions that are upheld by the constitution of this our beloved country, Luma Stephen Njoke, Vice Chairman of the Royal Traditional Council said in a statement. "Contrary to divergent views expressed by various individuals in their respective capacities, concerning the celebration of this year's National Day in the South West Region, we of this Chiefdom value and stand on the supreme general interest shared by the majority of Cameroonians of goodwill "Hence, he calls on all and sundry to massively turn out en mass for the 2019 edition of the National Day celebrations on the 20th of May to exercise their civil right," Luma said in a document he signed for and on behalf of the Paramount Chief designate. Esuka Endeley is reacting following rumours that some chiefs plan to boycott the May 20 parade in Buea. They claim to be angry that South West Governor Okalia Bilai Bernard had on Thursday April 25, 2019, as he chaired a preparatory meeting ahead of the 47th edition of Cameroon's National Day nationwide celebrations billed for May 20, said chiefs who fail to march with their subjects will be considered to have forfeited their thrones. The South West Chiefs Conference quickly condemned the Governor for ordering all Chiefs in the region to march on May 20 along with their subjects under pain of losing their royal crowns. In a communique signed Tuesday April 30, 2019, the President of the South West Chiefs Conference, Chief Mafany Njie Martin on behalf of his peers said the governor did not have to remind them of their civic responsibilities. The chiefs say their native laws and customs do not allow them as natural rulers to march past the grandstand during official ceremonies. "We completely dissociate ourselves from such a representation and remind the public that the traditions and customs of the South West people are full of values of respect, tolerance, nobility and unity. We therefore call on our population to remain calm and positive as we look forward to accompanying the State in all national events like we have always done," the chiefs said. Chief Ewome Eko John aka Moja-Moja I of Bwassa in a viral video demanded an apology from the Governor. The Divisional Officer for Buea, Kouam Wokam Paul fired a missive at Chief Mafany Njie Martin of Liongo Village in Buea who doubles as President of the South West Chiefs Conference, SWECC. In a "letter of observation" dated May 3, 2019, the Senior Civil Administrator conveyed to Chief Mafany Njie his "total disapproval of this malicious, odious and intriguing attitude as well as firmly caution you against such misconduct." The Mayor and Councillors of the Buea Council on behalf of the living forces of the region condemned the misunderstanding given to the Governor's fatherly call, urging the population of the region to turn out on May 20 and give the National Day parade the colour and grandeur it deserves. News editor's pick centerpiece Friendswood council approves flood recommendations, bond possible STUART VILLANUEVA/The Daily News A motorist crosses the FM 2351 bridge over Clear Creek in Friendswood on Tuesday. STUART VILLANUEVA/The Daily News Water gushes from a drainage culvert into Clear Creek after a rain shower in Friendswood on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. FRIENDSWOOD Less than a month after a local committee made recommendations about how to reduce flooding, the city council already has taken action and a citizens committee is considering a bond proposition to raise funding for some of the proposed projects. The council late Monday passed a resolution, mostly symbolic, supporting the committees finding that Clear Creek is the main cause behind the citys flooding during Hurricane Harvey, but also adopted rules requiring developers to have more detention and mitigation in new developments and approved hiring a city drainage coordinator, Councilman Steve Rockey said. The idea is to push the ball down the field every play a couple of yards, Rockey said. The drainage committee as part of its findings recommended calling for a $32 million bond proposition in November to be used for drainage projects. The council is now waiting for a second bond committee, comprised of residents, to weigh that recommendation along with what other projects, if any, might be included in a November bond referendum, Rockey said. In order to significantly reduce the flooding in Friendswood, all the work on Clear Creek would cost about $175 million, Rockey said. But, by our calculations, there are some partners that might get involved, but wed need some of our own money. Thats where we came up with the $32 million. The citys drainage committee in April told officials the most effective way to reduce flooding is by improving flow along Clear Creek by de-snagging, creating a terrace along the banks and raising the bridge at FM 2351, according to the report. Hurricane Harvey dropped more than 50 inches of rain in some parts of the county and badly flooded many houses and businesses in August 2017. Under the terracing method, crews would build a 200-foot terrace on both sides of the creek without straightening the channel, according to the presentation. That method alone could have reduced water levels near the FM 2351 bridge during Harvey by more than 3 feet, according to projections. Members of the drainage committee asked for the resolution to show that the council was committed and willing to pursue projects based on the groups findings, officials said. After Mondays votes, the city manager also will work on hiring a watershed coordinator, a full-time engineer to oversee future drainage and flood mitigation work, Rockey said. The council isnt yet sure what, exactly, a drainage coordinator would earn, but city projections show that a cost of two full-time engineers one of which would be the drainage coordinator would be about $200,000. The final change the council made Monday adopted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agencys precipitation frequency estimate changes. Federal scientists in September changed the definition of a 100-year flood and, after Mondays change, Friendswood will now take that into account when issuing development permits, Rockey said. The next step after Mondays votes will be receiving whatever the residents committee decides about a possible November bond election, possibly in June or July, Rockey said. The council will have to make a final decision on whether or not to call for a November election by August, Rockey said. The committee could choose to ask for more drainage money between $60 million to $100 million or could add extra funding for traffic or other projects, but the council will have to be cautious about overextending its debt limits, Rockey said. The committee will have to take a look at it, but $32 million over a 10- to 15-year period, that alone may not impact taxes all that much, Rockey said. The citys yearly general fund budget hovers around $25 million, while drainage improvements could cost in the tens of millions of dollars, Mayor Mike Foreman said. Officials are hopeful that following a similar approach to the one the city took during a 2013 bond election will have positive results, City Manager Morad Kabiri said in a previous interview with The Daily News. Voters in 2013 approved four bond propositions totaling about $24 million to spend on several projects. Rev. Mrs Geraldine Fobang (right) & Rev. Fobang Christopher Atia Azohnwi Rev. Mrs Geraldine Fobang has been inducted into service as Associate Parish Pastor of Presbyterian Church Buea Town and Station Manager of the Christian Broadcasting Service (CBS) Radio Buea, FM95.3. The twin feathers were conferred on her during a solemn church service Sunday, May 5, 2019 celebrated by Rev. Besong Johnson Tabe, Secretary Committee of the Ministry of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon, PCC. The service was attended by PCC Moderator, Rt. Rev. Fonki Samuel Forba and PCC Synod Clerk, Rev. Babila Fochang. In a sermon inspired by the gospel according to John 10: 1-10, the Rev. Besong said the induction service was taking place at a time when many people no longer endure sound teaching like Apostle Paul prophesied in his second letter to Timothy. On the theme, building the mental capacities of Christians, the Secretary Committee of the Ministry charged Rev. Geraldine Fobang to use CBS Radio to make a difference in a society where a plethora of radios are preaching their own gospel. Predators want to make fun of our ignorance () manage the mental capacities of the CBS Radio listeners. It is your responsibility to orientate PCC Christians to know the truth of Gods workthe radio is a source of credible information that you know just too well, given your training and experience, Rev. Besong said from the pulpit. The preacher urged the Station Manager of CBS Radio Buea to help the church to guide the flock when they get confused. Please, work in close collaboration with all the pastors within the presbyteries in Fako and beyond, especially those closest to the churchThe masses see their lives full of trouble and struggle. People seem to be in a hurry. Wherever they hear loud sounding music, they start running. Please reach out to human beings who have been degraded by the woes of the world, said the Secretary Committee of the Ministry. Rev. Achowah Umenei, one of the pillars of the Communication Department of the PCC urged Rev. Geraldine Fobang of CBS Radio Buea and Roseline Obah Akah of CBS Radio Bamenda (FM 101.0) to beat his record and that of Rev. Mokoko Mbue Thomas, the current PCC National Secretary for Communication. Born in Bafut on March 30, 1974 and raised in Manyemen, Rev. Geraldine Fobang graduated from the Presbyterian Theological Seminary (PTS) in Kumba in 2006. She was ordained at PC Ntamulung on November 3, 2008. She served in PC Ntoh Pinyin from 2006 until she was transferred to PC Alamatou Parish from where she was later moved to PC Belewa parish to serve as chaplain of PSS Nkwen. She would later be moved to PC Bamenda Station in December 2014, taking up service on January 1, 2015. In May 2016, she was appointed Chief of Programmes at the Christian Broadcasting Service Radio Buea, FM 95.3 and would be raised to Station Manager in May 2017 after a staffing Committee meeting of the church that held in Kumba. She will cumulate her Station Manager office with that of Associate Parish Pastor of PC Buea Town where she has been since 2017. Rev. Geraldine Fobang holds a Bachelor of Technology in Journalism and Mass Communication from National Polytechnic Bamenda, BSc in Theology from PTS Kumba, BSc in Law and Political Science from the University of Dschang, GCE Advanced Level from GBHS Atiela and GCE Ordinary Level from GHS Nguti. She is currently enrolled in the Peace Journalism Masters programme at the Protestant University of Central Africa in Yaounde. The expert in conflict sensitive journalism and President of the Littoral/South West Chapter of the Cameroon Community Media Network (CCMN) is a mother of five and is married to Rev. Fobang Christopher Tah, Parish Pastor of PC Molyko and chaplain of the University of Buea. I am writing to discuss an important issue that I believe is being overlooked. As you may know, the cost of child care has been rising to prices that many families cannot afford. I am not surprised that this is something that isnt being widely discussed, as family policies are often not the focus of politicians and news reporters. Child-rearing and caregiving are basic functions of family policy and by not providing affordable child care for all families, we are neglecting people of something that should be a basic right. All families are confronted with the decision of how they are going to navigate child care. When affordable child care is not an option, families are forced to find cheaper, lower quality options, or parents have to sacrifice their careers. Families are an important component of our community and our society, and I believe that when we focus on family policies, we are able to make extraordinary impacts. As a college student studying human development and family sciences and as a child care worker, I am urging you to engage our community in the conversation about the issue of affordable child care. The more we talk about it, the harder it is for the issue to be ignored. Sophie Stipek Corvallis (April 29) Love 2 Funny 2 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2021. New life to be given to Dashbashi Canyon - GeorgianJournal Martin Belinga Eboutou Archives Martin Belinga Eboutou, former Minister, Director of the Civil Cabinet at the Presidency of the Republic of Cameroon is no more, the Presidency has said in a statement. "The Civil Cabinet of the Presidency of the Republic announces with regrets the death today at 01:30pm of Mr. Martin Belinga Eboutou," Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, Minister, Director of the Civil Cabinet said in a statement dated Wednesday May 8, 2019. News of the death of the former Minister, Director of the Civil Cabinet of the Presidency of the Republic first circulated from mouth to ear and later as rumour on social media. Though the Presidency of the Republic did not say where Belinga Eboutou died, news has it that he breath his last at a hospital in Geneva, Switzerland where he was being treated of an illness. The former seminarian, trained in the former Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo) and Paris, Belinga Eboutou bagged a degree in canon law, a doctorate in law and a diploma from the diplomatic section of ENA in Paris. The career diplomat served in many Cameroonian embassies abroad including in Brazzaville and Paris before returning to Yaounde, where he became the director of state protocol in 1989. Particularly close to Paul Biya, whose religious fervour he shared, he was then appointed pioneer director of the civil cabinet in 1996, before representing Cameroon at the United Nations in New York from 1997. He was appointed to head the Civil Cabinet in 2010 where he served until March 2, 2018 when he was replaced by Samuel Mvondo Ayolo. Motorola One Vision has a 48 MP camera with OIS: Launch on 15th of May News oi-Vivek Motorola One Vision is powered by an Exynos chipset Motorola is all set to launch a new set of smartphones on the 15th of May in Brazil, where the company is most likely to launch the Moto Z4, Moto Z4 Play, and the Moto One Vision. The Moto Z4 and the Moto Z4 Play will be the flagship series from the brand, whereas, the Moto One Vision is expected to be a mid-tier smartphone. 48 MP optically-stabilized camera Now, a fresh batch of renders has appeared online, which reveals some of the hidden features of the Motorola One Vision. Until now, we knew that the Motorola One Vision will feature a 48 MP primary camera, and the latest leak suggests that, the high-resolution camera sensor also comes with optical image stabilization with an f/1.7 aperture. With a wider aperture and OIS, the Motorola One Vision will be able to capture steady shots even with the shaky hands and is expected to outperform the competition, especially in low-light photography. The smartphone is also expected to offer additional video recording features like super-slow-motion recording and time lapse. The leak also suggests that the smartphone will have a rear-fingerprint sensor, so, no in-display fingerprint sensor, at least on the One Vision. The Motorola One Vision is the first Motorola smartphone based on the Exynos chipset, and the device uses the Exynos 9610 SoC, the same chipset that powers the Samsung Galaxy A50, which retails in India for Rs 19,999. The Motorola One Vision will be available in multiple colors, including Blue and Brown with a 2.5D curved pattern design. This leak does support the earlier claim, that the smartphone will have a punch-hole display design, similar to the one found on the Samsung Galaxy S10. As of now, there is no information on the pricing of the Motorola One Vision. Stay tuned to GizBot to learn more about the pricing and availability details for the upcoming Motorola smartphones. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Xiaomi likely prepping to launch triple camera smartphone in India News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Xiaomi could be in plans to launch new smartphone with triple cameras in India. Xiaomi could be prepping to launch a new smartphone with triple cameras at its rear in India. The company took to its official forum to share a teaser of one of its upcoming devices with a triple camera setup at the rear. However, there is no clarity regarding the name of the device that will be launched in the country. Recently, Xiaomi India's head Manu Kumar Jain posted a tweet that the company is all set to launch a new smartphone with the latest Snapdragon 700 series. It is speculated to be the Snapdragon 730 or Snapdragon 730G but there is no clarity regarding the same. Latest Xiaomi teaser As per the latest teaser from Xiaomi, it looks like the upcoming smartphone will have triple cameras at its rear. The teaser shows a single, dual and triple camera modules that orbit a planet. When it comes to the Indian market, the company has already launched smartphones with single and dual cameras at their rear. So, it is speculated to bring a smartphone with triple rear cameras to the country. In its home market China, the company has a couple of smartphones with triple rear cameras - Mi 9 and Mi 9 SE. But none of these smartphones run the latest Snapdragon 700 series processor. So, this suggests that the company is teasing a completely new device, which could be the Mi A3, which has been hitting the rumor mills frequently in the recent times. Xiaomi Mi A3 details Xiaomi Mi A3 is believed to be the next-generation Android One smartphone from the company. Recent reports tipped that the company is prepping to launch two such phones - Mi A3 and Mi A3 Lite. And, it is speculated that these phones could use the latest Snapdragon 700 series processor. Also, there are reports that the upcoming Xiaomi phones could have a pop-up selfie camera. In the meantime, Xiaomi's sub-brand Redmi is prepping to launch the new flagship smartphone with Snapdragon 855 in China on May 13. This smartphone is believed to have a pop-up selfie camera, an in-display fingerprint sensor, a 3.5mm headphone jack and more. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Paytm Mall Samsung Super Sale: Grab Galaxy S10 series with up to Rs. 14,000 cashback News oi-Karan Sharma Grab the Samsung smartphone with up to Rs 14,000 cashback under Paytm Mall Samsung Super Sale. All you need to know. Online transaction app Paytm is once again back with its cashback offers on Samsung flagship smartphones. Paytm's e-commerce portal Paytm Mall has conducted 'Samsung Super Sale' where the company is offering up to Rs 14,000 cashbcak on some selected Galaxy smartphones along with exchange and no-cost EMI option as well. Do note that the cashback amount will be credited to your Paytm wallet which you can use it for making payments, recharges, or buying anything from other websites. Here is a list of Samsung smartphone which you can grab under this sale. Samsung Galaxy S10 Paytm is offering huge cash back on Samsung Galaxy S10 512GB variant. The smartphone is listed for Rs 84,900 with a flat cashback of Rs 14,000 on your Paytm wallet. So the Galaxy S10 512GB will be yours for Rs 70,900. For availing this cashbcak you need to apply promo code "MOBSAM14K". Samsung Galaxy S10+ The Samsung Galaxy S10+ buyers will receive a cashback of Rs 6,000 on their Paytm wallet. There are two variants of the Galaxy S10+ is available for sale on the e-store. The 128GB models is up for Rs 73,900 and the 512GB storage variant is up for Rs 91,900. However, after receiving the cashback, the price comes down to Rs 67,900 and Rs 85,900 respectively. Samsung Galaxy S10e Samsung Galaxy S10e is was the affordable smartphone in the S10 series. Paytm Mall is offering a cashback of Rs 9,000 on this smartphone under the Samsung Super Sale. Buyer can grab the 6GB RAM + 128GB storage model for Rs 46,900 after the cash back. The smartphone is also up for no-cost EMI and exchange offers. So if you don't want to pay the entire amount in one shoot then you can opt for the EMI option. Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Samsung Galaxy Note 9 was the company's last year flagship model which comes in two variants. Paytm is offering Rs 6,000 cashback on both the models. The 6GB RAM + 128GB storage will cost you Rs 61,900 and the 8GB with 512GB storage will cost you Rs 71,900. The e-store is also offering deals on other Samsung smartphone which you don't want to miss. Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Bryon and Lindsey Gustafson Honored The Gustafson family sits around the table with Bryon and Lindsey Gustafson at the table's head. "The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members." - Coretta Scott King Since arriving in Glasgow in January of 2016, Bryon and Lindsey Gustafson have been a living embodiment of the compassion... Dear Editor, Economic Development Week is a time to reflect on the many successes of public-private partnerships to grow businesses, create jobs and strengthen the economy. This year, Montana has something extra to celebrate with the bipartisan p... Dear Editor, The 2019 turned out to be a success for wildlife and habitat. We look back at a session that had more than 80 bills affecting our core issues of wildlife, habitat and access, and see many wins and a handful of losses when it comes to... Switzerland continues to open it's doors and welcome the blockchain & cryptocurrency industry into their country. In March, the Federal Assembly of Switzerland has voted voted to put cryptocurrency on equal legal footing as traditional assets, and it's minister said they plan to make Switzerland the Blockchain Capital of the World. Switzerland continues to open it's doors and welcome the blockchain & cryptocurrency industry into their country. In March, the Federal Assembly of Switzerland has voted voted to put cryptocurrency on equal legal footing as traditional assets, and it's minister said they plan to make Switzerland the Blockchain Capital of the World. The plan has been so successful, the City of Zug is now being called 'Crypto Valley' - which Business Insider describes as 'Switzerland's picturesque blockchain version of Silicon Valley'. That's why when we learned of this story - we expected to hear it took place in Zug. CJTF-OIR Strike Summary April 21 - May 04, 2019 U.S. Central Command Release No: 19-028 May 7, 2019 May 7, 2019 Release # 20190507-01 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SOUTHWEST ASIA Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve and its partners continue to target and pursue the enduring defeat of Daesh. CJTF-OIR and partner forces have liberated nearly 110,000 square kilometers (42,471 square miles) from Daesh; as a result, 7.7 million people no longer live under Daesh oppression. CJTF-OIR remains committed to the enduring defeat of Daesh to improve conditions for peace and stability in the region, and to protect all our homelands from Daesh's terrorist threat. Strike Summary Between April 21 - May 4, 2019, CJTF-OIR conducted 10 strikes consisting of 40 engagements against Daesh targets in Iraq, there were no strikes conducted in Syria. In Iraq, CJTF-OIR conducted 10 strikes consisting of 40 engagements, engaged four Daesh tactical units, and destroyed three tunnels, two buildings, two weapons caches, two supply routes, and one cargo container. Between April 21 - May 4, 2019, CJTF-OIR detected 18 strikes from other actors that crossed the Euphrates River Valley. CJTF-OIR is committed to avoiding and in every case minimizing civilian casualties; CJTF-OIR calls on all other actors in the area to observe the same precautions. This Coalition strike release contains all strikes conducted by fighter, attack, bomber, rotary-wing, or remotely piloted aircraft, rocket propelled artillery and ground-based tactical artillery. A strike, as defined in the Coalition release, refers to one or more kinetic engagements that occur in roughly the same geographic location to produce a single, sometimes cumulative effect in that location. For example, a single aircraft delivering a single weapon against a lone Daesh vehicle is one strike, but so is multiple aircraft delivering dozens of weapons against a group of Daesh-held buildings and weapon systems in a compound, having the cumulative effect of making that facility harder or impossible to use. Strike assessments are based on initial reports and may be refined. CJTF-OIR does not report the number or type of aircraft employed in a strike, the number of munitions dropped in each strike, or the number of individual munition impact points against a target. The information used to compile the daily strike releases is based on 'Z' or Greenwich Mean Time. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Romania, U.S. Conduct Close Air Support Exercise Navy News Service Story Number: NNS190507-13 Release Date: 5/7/2019 3:16:00 PM By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Catie Coyle, Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Grouup Public Affairs IONIAN SEA (NNS) -- The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) and components of its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, along with the U.S. Air Force 603rd Air Control Squadron, completed a close air support (CAS) exercise with Romanian partners, May 3-5. The CAS involved coordination with U.S. Air Force tankers for in-flight refueling and Romanian joint terminal air controllers (JTACs), a ground-control support entity, to complete a roughly 700-nautical mile training exercise. "The strategic mission is to engage and strengthen our partnerships with countries around the Black Sea," said Cmdr. David Dartez, commanding officer of the "Fist of the Fleet," Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25, one of the nine squadrons of CVW-7. "This shows our capacity to operate freely with our allies to complete our mission of fostering security and stability in the region." The exercise required substantial bilateral cooperation, including coordination with Romanian ground control to assist with refueling logistics and ensure airspace access. "This is among the first missions we've executed with Romania," said Lt. Gerard Anderson, a pilot with VFA-25 and the coordination lead of the exercise. "They're one of our allies, and it's beneficial to integrate with different countries to show the world what we're capable of." Using Romanian JTACs enhanced the squadrons' targeting capabilities, increasing readiness and lethality. A major focus of Abraham Lincoln CSG's mission in its deployment, enhancing interoperability among allies was a key element of the exercise. "Exercises like this strengthen defense capabilities against any potential threats in the European theater," Anderson said. "Our North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) alliance is a critical tool for maintaining security and stability in the region; this demonstration builds competence and confidence in our ability to do just that." Romania became a member of NATO March 29, 2004. NATO marked its 70th anniversary April 4 this year. Beginning April 9, Romania hosted NATO's largest medical training exercise, which lasted six days and involved 38 nations, almost the entirety of NATO's member states. Abraham Lincoln's CSG is deployed in support of maritime security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th, U.S. 6th and U.S. 7th Fleet areas of operation. With the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) as the flagship, deployed strike group assets include staffs, ships and aircraft of Carrier Strike Group 12, Destroyer Squadron 2, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) and CVW-7; as well as the Alvaro de Bazan-class frigate ESPS Mendez Nunez (F 104). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China warns US ships to leave sea People's Daily Online By Leng Shumei and Liu Xuanzun (Global Times) 07:33, May 07, 2019 A military spokesperson said that the People's Liberation Army will stay on high alert and take all necessary measures to protect national sovereignty and security and safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea, after two US ships illegally entered the area. Senior Colonel Li Huamin, a spokesperson of the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army, made the remarks after they discovered US guided-missile destroyers Preble and Chung Hoon traveling close to the Nansha Islands on Monday. The command had identified and warned the ships to leave in accordance with laws, Li said in a statement released on the command's WeChat account on Monday afternoon. China owns indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and their adjacent waters, Li noted. Geng Shuang, a spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, expressed China's strong discontent and firm opposition to the US destroyers' behavior at a routine press conference on Monday. The behavior violated China's sovereignty, disturbed regional peace and stability, he noted. The two destroyers traveled within 12 nautical miles of the Nancun and Chigua reefs in the Nansha Islands, according to Geng. "The situation in the South China Sea is improving thanks to the efforts of China and ASEANcountries," Geng said, urging the US to stop such provocative operations. The operations are the latest of the US to threaten China's sovereignty in the South China Sea under the name of freedom of navigation, which experts said is just "an excuse for the US to stir up tensions in the region and contain China." "The US' excuse of freedom of navigation does not stand because international law never allowed US warships to freely enter another country's territorial waters," Zhang Junshe, a senior research fellow at the PLA Naval Military Studies Research Institute, told the Global Times on Monday. "As you can see, the situation in the South China Sea has already stabilized. Countries directly involved, including the Philippines, all agreed to peacefully solve the problems through dialogue and negotiations, and these countries are now focusing on economic cooperation," Zhang noted. Countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei sent naval vessels to China in April, joining the celebrations of the PLA Navy's 70th anniversary. Following the celebrations, China held a joint naval exercise with the Southeast Asian countries in Qingdao, East China's Shandong Province, from April 24-26. These show that countries around the South China Sea want peace and stability in the region, which is being sabotaged by US actions, according to Zhang. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pence to offer Venezuela's military new incentives to turn against elected president: Report Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 04:57PM US Vice President Mike Pence plans to offer new incentives to Venezuela's military to turn against President Nicolas Maduro, part of a plan by President Donald Trump's administration to topple the South American country's legitimate government. In a speech to the Americas Society at the State Department scheduled on Tuesday, Pence will warn that the US will soon move to sanction 25 additional magistrates on Venezuela's supreme court, a senior Trump administration official told Reuters. Pence will offer new "carrots" to the Venezuelan military, as well as an economic aid package contingent on a political transition, according to the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Pence's speech will be the first look at the Trump administration's recalibrated strategy following street protests last week led by Juan Guaido, the opposition figure backed by the United States and most other Western countries. Last Tuesday, a group of Venezuelan armed troops accompanying opposition leader Juan Guaido clashed with soldiers at an anti-government rally in the capital, Caracas. Gunfire was heard, and more than 100 people were reported wounded in what was later revealed to be a US-backed coup. Guaido had described last week's protests as the start of his "final phase" to oust Maduro, but mass military defections failed to come to fruition. Maduro, who has called Guaido a puppet of Washington, announced in a televised speech that the group of military personnel supporting Guaido had been defeated. A second day of confrontations came on Wednesday as opposition supporters and security forces clashed during May Day protests in Caracas. Addressing his supporters, Maduro said the coup attempt was directed from the White House. Trump has invested considerable political capital in the diplomatic and economic intervention in the Venezuela crisis. The United States has imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela, including "secondary sanctions" on companies from other countries that do business with Venezuela, and additional shipping sanctions for oil. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China: Pompeo misrepresented facts about Arctic affairs Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 02:04PM China says what US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo claims about its role in the Arctic rests on "ulterior motives" that lead Washington to contradict the facts. Speaking on the eve of a meeting of the eight members of the Arctic Council, Pompeo said in northern Finland on Monday that the US plans to beef up its Arctic presence to keep Russia's and China's "aggressive behavior" in check in the region. On Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said at a regular press briefing in Beijing that the remarks were "a misrepresentation of the facts that has ulterior motives." China will "not intervene" in matters between Arctic countries, but it will also "not be absent" from global issues on the Arctic, he added. Geng said China has participated in Arctic affairs with "an open, cooperative and win-win attitude." "We have no geopolitical calculations, and seek no exclusionary blocs." "The Arctic issue is not only related to Arctic countries, but is also of global significance and international influence." The Chinese official said Beijing was willing to cooperate with others to protect, exploit and govern the Arctic. The US and Russia are members of the Arctic Council, but China only holds an observer status. According to Pompeo, Beijing has invested massively in the region, almost $90 billion between 2012 and 2017, and intends to fully benefit from the advantages of the Northern Sea Route. The shipping channel, which significantly cuts sailing times between the Pacific and Atlantic by passing north of Russia, is increasingly usable as the ice melts. Elsewhere in the briefing, Geng said the administration of US President Donald Trump could not resolve any problem by adding tariffs on nearly all of the Chinese products headed to the United States. The Chinese official welcomed negotiations on the issue of tariffs. "Talks are by their nature a process of discussion. It's normal for both sides to have differences. China won't shun problems and is sincere about continuing talks." "We hope the US side can work hard with China, to meet each other halfway, and on the basis of mutual respect and equality, resolve each other's reasonable concerns, and strive for a mutually beneficial, win-win agreement." The widely-read state-run Global Times tabloid said in an editorial that Beijing's willingness to continue with the talks in the face of Trump's tweets shows it would remain calm and "focus on the talks rather than engage in public opinion warfare." In a commentary, the paper's parent, the ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily, said China had weathered such threats from the United States before, and would keep calm. On Sunday, Trump threatened to impose tariffs on US-bound Chinese products, while announcing a dramatic increase in the tariffs that are already in place. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Qatar to transfer $480 million to Palestinians in Gaza Strip, West Bank Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 01:56PM Qatar says the gas-rich Persian Gulf Arab state has allocated nearly half a billion US dollars in aid to the Palestinian Authority as well as the Islamic resistance movement, Hamas, in order to support education and health services and provide urgent humanitarian relief. "The state of Qatar has allocated $300 million in the form of grants and loans to support the health and education sectors' budgets with the Palestinian Authority," the official Qatar News Agency said on Tuesday. It noted that Doha had also earmarked another $180 million in "urgent relief and humanitarian aid and in support of UN programs in Palestine." Palestinian Authority chief Mahmoud Abbas expressed his gratitude to Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for the financial assistance, saying, "The aid will contribute to alleviating the hardships facing Palestinians." "The aid, which will be both loans and grants, will help Palestinian people overcome some of their hardships, face the challenges and strengthen their steadfastness on their land until the establishment of their independent Palestinian state with al-Quds (Jerusalem) as its capital on the 1967 borders," Abbas stated. Ismail Haniyeh, head of the politburo for Gaza-based Hamas resistance movement, also praised the Qatari decision, saying the aid was "a continuation of the unwavering Qatari stances that support the Palestinian people." "We thank Qatar for the honorable grant, which seeks to help the Palestinian people in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, Qatar continues, even under the most difficult conditions, to support Palestine," Haniyeh said. Qatar has committed to providing $15 million a month into the Gaza Strip under an informal agreement struck last November. The funds are meant to pay salaries of Hamas employees and support impoverished Gazans. On March 11, Palestinians in the Gaza Strip received a new tranche of financial aid donated by Qatar, nearly two months after Hamas said it would not accept Qatari funds following Israel's blockade of the delivery over unrest along the border between the besieged costal enclave and the occupied territories. The cash grant of 5.5 million US dollars was distributed to 55,000 families all over the coastal sliver, with each receiving 100 dollars, according to a statement released by the Hamas-run Ministry of Social Development. On January 24, Hamas turned down Qatari funds over Israel's change of conditions due to the unrest along the border fence between the strip and the Israeli-occupied territories, criticizing Tel Aviv for imposing new conditions on the money entering the blockaded Palestinian territory. "We refuse to receive the third Qatari grant in response to the (Israeli) Occupation's behavior and attempts to evade the agreement," the deputy Hamas leader in Gaza, Khalil al-Hayya, told journalists at the time. The third aid tranche had been expected to enter the Gaza Strip in late January, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blocked it on January 22 after an Israeli soldier was slightly injured near the fence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Navy plans to boost nuclear submarine spending to $5 billion by 2024 Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 01:43PM The US Navy plans to increase its yearly spending its next-generation nuclear missile submarine program by $5 billion by 2024, the Pentagon has said in a report sent to Congress. According to the Navy's Selected Acquisition Report sent to Congress last month, the Navy plans to enhance funding for the program by $2 billion in fiscal 2021, and boost the funding surge by $5 billion by 2024, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday. The current level of funding for the program is about $2.3 billion, but the Navy will seek $4.3 billion in funding for the Columbia-class submarine program next year, according to Bloomberg. The funding surge has accelerated under the administration of President Donald Trump to modernize and grow the size of the US nuclear submarine fleet. Trump has vowed to make the increase military spending. According to the previously undisclosed document of the Pentagon, the Navy has made requests of $4.46 billion in fiscal 2022, $4.13 billion in fiscal 2023 and $5 billion in 2024. It has been revealed that an estimated spending of $128 billion will be required to complete the project. The Pentagon's Office of Inspector General announced last month that the sub program would be audited to "determine whether the Navy is managing the development" of the system to "ensure that it meets performance requirements without cost increases or schedule overruns." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Venezuela accuses UK of denying Venezuelans food, healthcare by blocking gold deposits Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 09:17AM Britain is denying millions of Venezuelans food and healthcare by blocking access to the South American country's gold deposits at the Bank of England, says Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza. Speaking during a visit to Moscow, the Russian capital, Arreaza said Monday that the Bank of England had confiscated over $1.5 billion in Venezuelan overseas gold deposits and refused to return it even though the Latin American country was grappling with food shortages and deteriorating healthcare services. "In the Bank of England, there are 1359 million euros ($1.52 billion) in Venezuelan gold blocked," Arreaza told a press conference, noting that the money was for "the health of the people, to feed the people, for production in Venezuela". The Venezuelan FM said the Bank of England was only one of the European and international financial institutions that had "confiscated" a total of 5 billion euros in Venezuelan deposits upon an order by US President Donald Trump. The Trump administration has announced sanctions against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and blocked the assets of its officials across the world in a bid to channel them to Juan Guaido, the country's self-proclaimed interim president who has been trying to oust Maduro since his re-election in January. "These are resources of the Venezuelan people for their food, for their health, for their public services, for their housing, for their infrastructure, it's criminal what the United States is doing," said Arreaza. "When a housewife can't get a product or it's more expensive, it's thanks to the blockade; when a child can't be operated on, it's thanks to the blockade," he added. London has already expressed support for Guaido. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said in late January that tightening economic pressure against Venezuelan "kleptocrats" could force Maduro to accept opposition calls for early elections "Targeted sanctions against the kleptocrats who have enriched themselves on the back of the rest of the population who are very poor, that is something I think can be effective," Hunt said ahead of Brexit meeting with counterparts in the European Union (EU). Maduro had tried to withdraw the gold in January but the Bank of England rejected the request after extensive lobbying by the US. Guaido has since asked for the funds to be diverted to him instead. According to British media, however, the assets still remain frozen. Arreaza said Caracas was not sitting idly by and had been seeking help from allies such as China and Russia to create "alternative routes ... to bypass the American blockade." Russia and China have sent humanitarian aid for Venezuelan people. Maduro has blamed US sanctions for his country's woes. Venezuela's GDP has fallen by around 50 percent since he took over from the late Hugo Chavez in 2013. Back in March, Maduro accused Washington of using cyberwarfare to cripple the country's power grid and cause nationwide blackouts that lasted for days. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US to pull F-35 from Canada aircraft replacement program over policy dispute Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 06:49AM The United States has threatened to pull the F-35 fighter jet from a competition to replace Canada's ageing aircraft fleet as a widening trade policy dispute continues to cause tension between the two neighbors. On the hunt for a viable warplane to renovate its fleet of old CF-18 Hornet warplanes, Canada is expected to launch the major acquisition program at the end of May. The US government is refusing to chime in over Ottawa's insistence on requiring the winner to invest the equivalent of the acquisition cost in Canada under its Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, according to a letter obtained by defense analyst Richard Shimooka. Canada has reportedly set aside $26 billion for the aircraft purchase, making it one of the country's biggest-ever military programs. However, the increasing price tag and continuing questions over the best aircraft to meet Canada's needs has kept Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a Liberal, from getting the program off the ground. The letter, addressed to the Canadian government and published Monday by the Macdonald-Laurier Institute think-tank, is written by US Navy Vice Admiral Mathias Winter in December 2018 and clearly states that the Canadian Royal Air Force will never receive an F-35 bid if the country insists on its ITB demands. "If the ITB requirement remains in effect, an F-35 offer will not be provided," said the letter. "We look forward to Canada reaffirming its status as an F-35 partner and hope the ITB issue will be resolved quickly so the F-35 is able to compete." "The F-35 supplier team will submit an F-35 offer only if (1) the ITB requirement is waived entirely and (2) there is no future ITB obligation arising from selecting the F-35," it added. The dispute adds to a list of disagreements between the Trump administration and the government of Trudeau. The two countries are already trading blows over a decision by Trump last year to increase tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. The two neighbors are also in the middle of a policy change process to implement the USMCA, the renegotiated North American Free-Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which also includes Mexico. Canada is also caught in a power struggle between the United States and China, facing harsh economic punishments from Beijing over arresting a senior executive of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei on an extradition request by the Trump administration last December. Winter is the program executive officer for the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office. His letter followed a similar one from Ellen Lord, the Pentagon's head of military procurement, in August last year. Ottawa had until end of January to inform the US of its plans. While Trudeau's party has openly discussed plans to forgo the F-35 and opt for cheaper options instead, it plans to continue to participate in the F-35 program. Canada, a member of the F-35 production consortium, risks losing its place in the group in case it insists on the ITB policy, the kind of policy that the consortium has banned with clear laws. Ottawa has spent more than $500-million to be a partner in the program over the past 13 years. Without the membership, Canada would still be able to purchase F-35s but at higher prices. Shimooka warned that with the F-35 nearing peak production, a lot of supply contracts will only be open to Canadian companies if it remains a member. Ottawa had previously estimated that Canadian firms could make over $10 billion in contracts. Built by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 is a stealth aircraft often described as the most expensive weapon in world's history, costing over $1 trillion to produce and maintain over its lifetime and around $90 million per unit. The Boeing Super Hornet F/A-18 and the Eurofighter Typhoon, made by a consortium of European weapons makers, are among Lockheed's rivals. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 5 killed, 233 arrested during coup-related protests in Venezuela last week Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 05:44AM At least five people were killed and more than 230 arrested in protests sparked by a failed coup attempt against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro last week, the government has announced. Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab said on Monday that 233 people were arrested and that all of them were being investigated. Saab confirmed that 18 arrest warrants were also issued against "civilians and military plotters," but he gave no names. Last Tuesday, a small group of Venezuelan armed troops accompanying opposition figure Juan Guaido clashed with soldiers at an anti-government rally in the capital, Caracas, in an attempted coup. Gunfire was heard, and more than 100 people were reported wounded. The putsch quickly petered out, though, and some 25 renegade soldiers sought refuge at the Brazilian Embassy in Caracas. Maduro vowed to bring justice to "traitors" and thanked the country's armed forces for their continued loyalty to his government. Guaido, whose latest call for a coup failed, has blamed the armed forces for not rushing to his side. "We still need more soldiers, and maybe we need more officials of the regime to be willing to support it," he told The Washington Post on Saturday. Later on Monday, he pointed the finger at Venezuelans in general, saying there were "people who failed to follow through." The opposition figure, who has declared himself "interim president" of Venezuela, said in an interview with the BBC that he was considering asking Washington to intervene in the country. The administration of US President Donald Trump, which has recognized Guaido's self-proclamation, has repeatedly threatened Maduro's elected government with military action. As part of a pressure campaign to push Maduro out of power, the US has long resorted to harsh sanctions against his government. According to Reuters, US Vice President Mike Pence will announce more measures against the country on Tuesday. One US administration official has told Reuters that 25 more magistrates on Venezuela's Supreme Court would be targeted with sanctions as a warning not to approve a potential arrest warrant against Guiado. The Venezuelan government has not yet moved to arrest Guaido. But on Thursday, the Supreme Court ordered the re-arrest of another opposition figure, Leopoldo Lopez, who made an appearance alongside Guaido during last week's coup attempt after allegedly escaping house arrest. The 48-year-old Lopez has reportedly taken refuge at the Spanish Embassy in Caracas with his family. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison in 2014 after being convicted of inciting violent protests against the government. At least 43 people were killed during those protests. He was transferred to house arrest in 2017. According to the US administration official, Pence will offer new "carrots" to the Venezuelan military personnel to entice them to defect and join the opposition. The official did not provide details. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taliban Fighters Storm Afghan Security Checkpoints, Killing Eight By RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan May 07, 2019 KABUL -- Taliban fighters attacked security checkpoints in Afghanistan's northeastern Takhar Province, killing eight members of the security forces, a local official has said. Provincial council chief Wafiullah Rahmani on May 7 said three soldiers and five police officers were killed in the May 6 attack in Khwaja Bahaudin district. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack. The militants launch near-daily attacks on Afghan security forces, even as peace efforts have been gaining momentum to put an end to Afghanistan's 17-year war. In a separate development, Dadullah Qaneh, a councilman in the western Farah Province, said coalition forces on May 5 launched air strikes against Taliban-run heroin labs, killing 15 people. Qaneh said the victims were laborers, but Mohibullah Mohib, the provincial police chief's spokesman, said those killed in the Bakwa district air strikes were all members of the Taliban. Meanwhile, the NATO-led Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan said that a U.S. service member had died in a "non-combat related incident" in the country's east on May 6. "The incident is under investigation," a statement said. "The name of the service member will be released 24 hours after next of kin notification." It did not provide further details. The United States has about 14,000 troops in Afghanistan as part of Resolute Support, which provides training and assistance to security forces in Afghanistan as they battle Taliban fighters and other extremist groups. The Taliban now effectively controls or influences about half of the country. Dashing hopes for any quick cease-fire, the militant group has announced the start of its spring offensive, despite taking part in several rounds of talks with U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad in Qatar. With reporting by AP and dpa Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/taliban-fighters -storm-afghan-security-checkpoints- killing-eight/29925979.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Afghan Women Activists Fear Return Of Taliban-Era Repressions By Ron Synovitz May 07, 2019 Khalida Khorsand, a 35-year-old rights activist from the western Afghan city of Herat, is skeptical about Taliban claims that it has dispensed with its strict rules against girls' education and women working. The militant Islamic group made the declaration in the midst of recent peace talks with U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad aimed at bringing an end to the long U.S. military presence in Afghanistan. But Khorsand still remembers the notorious repressions under Taliban rule as a teenager in the western city of Herat when she risked the death penalty to study literature in a class disguised as a women's sewing group. "After nearly 18 years without the Taliban in power, we now see that the Taliban are coming back in Afghanistan and there haven't been big changes for women's lives -- especially in rural areas," says Khorsand, who has dedicated much of her life since 2001 to advancing women's rights in western Afghanistan. Even without the Taliban in power in Herat, Khorsand says, many hard-fought gains for women since the collapse of the Taliban regime already are under threat. She attributes that situation to what she calls "a Taliban way of thinking" by many Afghans and a proliferation of unregistered religious schools in Herat teaching "radical Islam" to as many as 50,000 young people. If the Taliban gets a role in the Afghan government as part of a peace deal, as Khorsand expects, she fears a floodgate will be opened for resurgent "radical Islamists" in Herat. "I don't know why this has been allowed to happen under the current government of Afghanistan since 2014," Khorsand laments. "They are not paying attention to the rise of fundamentalists and radical groups in Herat. "Now the city has become a safe haven for the radical groups that support the ideology of the Taliban," Khorsand says. "The fundamentalist groups in Herat are very organized and have a lot of money. They take the young people into madrasahs and teach to them the principles of the Taliban, and they are having an enormous impact on the young generation." Those groups already have gained backing from municipal authorities for an unofficial ban on live musical performances in Herat and for a ban on celebrating Valentine's Day -- with both practices being declared "unIslamic." In rural areas of Herat Province, where Khorsand worked for years to help women who are victims of domestic violence, Khorsand says she has seen disturbing signs of support for the punishments doled out by the Taliban under its strict enforcement of Islamic Shari'a law -- amputating the hands of thieves, publicly flogging people for drinking alcohol, and stoning to death those who engage in adultery. Students at Herat's madrasahs deny being radical Islamists. But they also support a return to the prohibitions and punishments of the Taliban era. "Allah says cut off the hands of a male thief and a female thief," says Jan Agha Jami, a 21-year-old at the Fakhr al-Madares madrasah in Herat. "When men and women commit adultery, whip them if they are single. If they are married, they should be stoned, and the Koran's rulings should be implemented in public. "Music concerts are absurd because they are forbidden," Jami tells RFE/RL. "Music is bad for the mind, memory, and even human psyche. When a girl performs in front of strangers, the whole society is corrupted." Reflecting on the growing popularity of such beliefs in Herat, Khorsand says "it makes no difference for women in Afghanistan if the Taliban exists or doesn't exist." "The Taliban's way of thinking about women is the way many people are thinking in Afghanistan," she says. "A lot of Afghans have traditional ways of thinking and they believe the talk of the Taliban. Unfortunately, much of their way of thinking is against the rights of women." Move Forward, Step Back To be sure, Khorsand says there have been important advances for Afghan women since 2001 -- including language in the Afghan Constitution that enshrines the right to education and to work. Women are members of parliament and can be seen on television, competing in sports, and performing in concerts in Kabul. But the Afghan government since the collapse of the Taliban regime has included many conservative Islamists and former warlords whose attitudes about women are similar to the Taliban. Sima Simar, the head of Afghanistan's Independent Human Rights Commission, says the gains for women since 2001 can easily be overturned and have rarely been implemented in rural areas where most Afghans live. The 2018 Women, Peace, and Security Index by Georgetown University and the Peace Research Institute of Oslo ranks Afghanistan as the second-worst place in the world to be a woman. Only Syria was ranked worse. That study notes that only 16 percent of Afghanistan's workforce is female and that half of all Afghan women have four years or less of education. UNICEF, the United Nations children's agency, says only half of school-aged Afghan girls now go to school, and that only one out of five girls under 15 are literate. Nearly two out of three Afghan girls are married when they are teenagers or younger. On average, they are sent by their parents into arranged marriages between the ages of 15 and 16. Most imprisoned Afghan women have been jailed for so-called "morality crimes," such as leaving an abusive husband or demanding to marry a man of their own choosing. A study issued in January by UN Women and the nongovernmental gender equality group Promundo found that 80 percent of Afghan women have experienced domestic physical violence. That study found that only 15 percent of Afghan men think women should be allowed to work outside of their home after marriage, and that two-thirds of Afghan men think women already have too many rights in Afghanistan. It is in this environment that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has refused to put a bill to a parliamentary vote that would prohibit violence against women -- despite years of domestic and international focus on the legislation. Ghani has appointed only five women to a 37-member council tasked with trying to pave the way for direct peace talks between his government and the Taliban at a time when the Taliban refuses to talk directly with the Kabul government. Only 10 women were invited to be part of a 240-strong delegation for so-called "all-Afghan talks" with the Taliban, and even then, the first round of those talks was canceled over reported complaints by the Taliban over the composition of the delegation. No Happy Ending Khorsand was one of about 20 women who, under Taliban rule in Herat, regularly attended covert literature classes for girls and women at a place known as the Golden Needle sewing school. The experiences of those young women were documented in a 2002 book by Sunday Times correspondent Christina Lamb called The Sewing Circles Of Herat. Lamb tells RFE/RL that although women have fought bravely for their rights since the collapse of the Taliban regime in late 2001, many are now concerned that those gains will be lost as U.S. President Donald Trump's administration seeks a peace deal with the Taliban. "Women are very unhappy because it seems as though in the rush to get out of Afghanistan, the Trump administration has prioritized only two things: that the Taliban renounce terrorism and that they stop attacking Americans and other NATO soldiers, and not that they respect the constitution and minorities and equal rights," Lamb says. "This has left women very exposed -- which considering that women's rights had been very much part of the initial reason for removing the Taliban, it's very disappointing," Lamb says. "I'm sure that the Taliban will insist on having some share in power as part of negotiations," Lamb says. "They are saying at the moment in these negotiations that things have changed, that they will allow girls to go to school and for women to work. But who knows what the reality will be were they to actually have power again. "We certainly have seen in some areas [under Taliban control recently] women being lashed by Taliban because they're not regarded as being properly covered," Lamb says. "It's very risky and I can see why women are extremely concerned." As for the women Lamb wrote about in The Sewing Circles Of Herat, she says most have not seen a happy ending to their story after 18 years. "Sadly, those particular women who bravely met under the guise of the sewing circles and who were writing stories and poems secretly, most of them have left the country or have stopped writing because they are not happy with the situation," Lamb tells RFE/RL. "One of them, a poet called Nadia Anjuman, was actually killed by her husband because he wasn't happy about the fact that she was speaking publicly and writing about women's rights," Lamb says. In 2016, Khorsand left Afghanistan for Ottawa, Canada, where she lives with her husband and twin 14-year-old daughters and remains in regular contact with rights activists in Herat. Khorsand tells RFE/RL she went to Canada for her daughters' sake because it is her "primary duty as a mother" to ensure that they get the best education she can provide them. Once her daughters finish school, Khorsand vows to enroll in a university human rights program in Canada -- and then return to Herat "to continue the fight" for the rights of Afghan women. With reporting by RFE/RL Radio Free Afghanistan correspondent Shapoor Saber in Herat Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghan-women- activists-fear-return-of-taliban- era-repressions/29926375.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address No Final Declaration After Arctic Council Meeting As U.S. Refuses Mention Of Climate Change May 07, 2019 The participants at the Arctic Council meeting in Finland's far northern town of Rovaniemi have failed to issue a final declaration reportedly due to a U.S. refusal to mention climate change. At the start of the council's 11th ministerial meeting, Finnish Foreign Minister Timo Soini said the final joint declaration was "off the table" and would be replaced by ministerial statements. He provided no explanation. According to participants, member states were unable to reach an agreement, with the United States alone refusing to mention climate change in the final text. Temperatures in the Arctic region are rising twice as fast as in the rest of the world, prompting the accelerated melting of the polar cap and opening huge untapped energy and mineral resources to commercial exploitation. This is the first time the Arctic Council, which has been holding ministerial meetings every two years since 1996, failed to present a final declaration. The meeting was supposed to come up with a two-year agenda to balance the challenges of climate change with sustainable development. "The hang-up here right now is America making it hard to make a final agreement," Sally Swetzof of the Aleut International Association, one of six organizations representing the Arctic's indigenous peoples, told the media. The Arctic Council consists of the United States, Russia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. In a speech in Rovaniemi on the eve of the meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said President Donald Trump's administration "shares your deep commitment to environmental stewardship" in the Arctic. But he said collective goals were not always the answer. "They are rendered meaningless and even counterproductive as soon as one nation fails to comply," he said. Pompeo also criticized China, which holds observer status, and Russia, slamming their "aggressive behavior" in the Arctic. With reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/no-final-declaration -after-arctic-council-meeting-as-u-s-refuses- mention-of-climate-change/29926232.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pompeo Warns Arctic Nations About Russian, Chinese 'Aggressive' Behavior By RFE/RL May 07, 2019 The United States is beefing up its presence in the Arctic to keep Russia's and China's "aggressive" behavior in check in the resource-rich region, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said. "The region has become an arena for power and for competition. And the eight Arctic states must adapt to this new future," Pompeo said in a speech in Finland on May 6, ahead of a meeting of foreign ministers from the Arctic Council. The Arctic Council consists of the United States, Russia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden with the region's indigenous populations also represented. Thawing ice in the Arctic is beginning to give increased access to much of the planet's remaining undiscovered reserves of oil and gas and large deposits of minerals, prompting nearby states as well as world powers such as China to rush and claim territory or boost their presence in the region. Speaking in the northern Finnish city of Rovaniemi, Pompeo said: "Just because the Arctic is a place of wilderness does not mean it should become a place of lawlessness. It need not be the case. And we stand ready to ensure that it does not become so." That means boosting U.S. security presence by "hosting military exercises, strengthening our force presence, rebuilding our icebreaker fleet, [and] expanding coast-guard funding," he said. Pompeo had sharp words for China, which holds observer status in the Arctic Council, saying that its attempts to inject itself into the polar region's affairs by pushing infrastructure projects and commercial investments had to be watched closely. "China's pattern of aggressive behavior elsewhere will inform how it treats the Arctic," he said, warning that corruption, low-quality investments, militarization, and "ecological devastation" were potential effects of allowing rising Chinese influence. Pompeo rejected China's assertion that it is a "near-Arctic nation," saying, "There are only Arctic states and non-Arctic states. No third category exists, and claiming otherwise entitles China to exactly nothing." He accused Russia of a "pattern of aggressive behavior," including increased militarization and demanding other nations request permission to pass through the Northern Sea Route -- the Arctic shipping lane under Russian control that connects the Atlantic and Pacific. Pompeo insisted that Russia's actions deserve "special attention" of the Arctic Council, saying, "We know Russian territorial ambitions can turn violent." He pointed to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, where fighting between government forces and Russia-backed separatists has killed some 13,000 people since April 2014. Russia has beefed up its military presence in the Arctic region, modernizing its Northern Fleet and reopening bases that were abandoned following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. With reporting by AFP, Reuters, AP, and Bloomberg Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pompeo-warns-arctic -nation-about-russian-chinese-aggressive -behavior/29925449.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Lawmakers Clash Over Whether Russia Investigation Into Trump Is 'Case Closed' May 07, 2019 U.S congressional leaders have clashed over whether the investigation into Russia interference in the 2016 presidential election is, in fact, over, despite Special Counsel Robert Mueller having formally concluded his work. Several Democratic-led committees in the House of Representatives have ongoing investigations related to the findings released in Mueller's final report last month. Mueller's report also mentioned more than a dozen outstanding criminal cases linked to his investigation. The report did not conclusively determine that Trump committed obstruction of justice, although it also did not clear him of the allegations. In a speech on May 7, Mitch McConnell, the top Republican in the Senate, said Democrats "told everyone there had been a conspiracy between Russia and the Trump campaign, yet on this special question, the special counsel's finding is case closed." Democrats have said they want further probes. Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic leader of the House of Representatives, said Congress "would be delinquent" if it did not continue investigating. "The case is not closed," she said. Mueller was appointed in May 2017, taking over an FBI investigation that was opened in late spring 2016 into interactions between Trump campaign associates and Russian officials. In September 2016, the FBI had a longtime informant, and an FBI investigator, meet with a Trump campaign official to discuss the official's conversation with a Russian man. Last month, Attorney General William Barr, who was appointed by Trump, suggested that may have amounted to spying on a political campaign. FBI Director Christopher Wray seemed to break with Barr's statement in testimony before a Senate committee on May 7. "I don't think I personally have any evidence of that sort," he said. "That's not the term I would use," he said. Based on reporting by AP, AFP, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/u-s-lawmakers-clash -over-whether-russia-investigation-into- trump-is-case-closed-/29927264.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Navy Plans to Push $5B More Per Year Toward Nuclear Sub Development Sputnik News 22:20 07.05.2019(updated 22:21 07.05.2019) The US Navy is set to ramp up spending on its next generation of ballistic missile submarines, putting nearly $18 billion toward the program in the next four years. However, a government watchdog has also blasted the Navy's cost estimates, calling them "overly optimistic." In a Selected Acquisition Report sent to Congress last month, the Pentagon said it hopes to ramp up spending on the Columbia-class submarine program from $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2020 to $4.3 billion in 2021, when construction of the first sub of the class is expected to begin (October 2020 would be in FY 2021). By FY 2024, the program would get over $5 billion per year, according to a Congressional Research Office report on the proposal. "The funding is not a quantum boost, but merely an acceleration of modernization," Independent Institute Center for Peace and Freedom Director Ivan Eland told Sputnik Tuesday, noting that "other parts of the defense budget should be cut to accommodate this ballistic submarine funding boost, but will not be." Eland told Sputnik the spending jump might be driven by a desire by the US to "enhance their bargaining position in arms control negotiations." "On the other hand, ballistic missile submarines are the greatest US deterrent to a potential Russian or Chinese nuclear strike," Eland noted. "The US force does probably need modernization. This force is less of a power projection force as opposed to a deterrent force." The Navy hopes to replace its aging fleet of 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines with 12 boats from the new Columbia-class, with the first being delivered by 2028. While the Navy has projected the costs to be roughly $115 billion, a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report last month criticized this estimate as "not accurate because it relies on overly optimistic" estimates of cost reductions. The Navy awarded the detail design contract to General Dynamics Electric Boat in September 2017, which will be partnering with Huntington Ingalls Industries' Newport News Shipbuilding. However, the GAO criticized the Navy's "84-month construction schedule, which the Navy has acknowledged is aggressive." While it acknowledges the Navy has learned from the disastrous Virginia-class submarine program, which saw the costs of that attack sub inflate by 21% due to beginning construction without having completed the boat's design, the GAO still says that even with 83% of design disclosures completed by the time the keel of USS Columbia is laid in October 2020, there remains the danger of delays piling up delays that will increase labor costs. With the Columbia slated to cost $6.2 billion, those costs could quickly add up. The GAO set the estimated cost of the program at $128 billion 11.3% more than the Navy's projections. "Since the shipbuilder began work on the detail design, it has generally met its overall goal of completing the arrangements on schedule. As detail design continues, however, the shipbuilder is transitioning from relatively simple designs for the hull to the more complex designs for the submarine's internal systems, increasing the pace needed to complete the remaining designs," the GAO wrote. "Navy officials stated that design disclosures are generally considered the most challenging phase of design work, where the shipbuilder specifies the lowest-level items and defines all aspects of the submarine. The shipbuilder has to maintain this increased pace in order to achieve the design maturity goal by the start of lead submarine construction," the report continues. "However, the shipbuilder's design progress in completing disclosure products has fallen short of its plan in recent months as the planned pace and complexity of the design has increased." The nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed submarines will form the backbone of the US strategic deterrent known as the nuclear triad: an overlapping system of nuclear-armed submarines, bombers and land-based ballistic missiles designed to guarantee Washington's ability to respond in kind to even the most encompassing nuclear attack. Each boat is massive 560 feet long and displacing over 20,000 tons of sea water with a crew of roughly 155, according to the US Naval Institute, and can carry up to 16 nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles that it doesn't even have to surface in order to fire. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US-Backed Guaido Claims 'Military Intervention' is Still on Table for Venezuela Sputnik News 21:45 07.05.2019 Earlier, in an interview with BBC, Venezuelan opposition leader and self-proclaimed President Juan Guaido admitted that he is considering the possibility of foreign intervention in his country in order to achieve his goal of ousting democratically elected President Nicolas Maduro. When asked by CBS about the possibility of a US military intervention in Venezuela, opposition leader Juan Guaido confirmed that he is still considering it as an "option", claiming that he is trying to find the "best exit out of [the] conflict". "We are open to options that offer a low social cost and that will grant us the ability and the stability to hold a truly free election", he said. At the same time, Guaido admitted that the US, which was also discussing "options" for a possible military deployment in Venezuela to back him, was not the only country that he had contacted for support. He confirmed earlier statements by another opposition figure from his circle, Yon Goicoechea, that opposition forces have also been communicating with Russia about the Venezuelan crisis "on several levels". "What we have done is to express our will and our commitment to respect their investments in Venezuela, to recognise our debts with the Russians and to invite them to invest and participate in the new Venezuela", Goicoechea told CBS. Guaido noted that the contacts were taking place "in an unofficial capacity" and involved officials from high to low levels in the Russian government. Guaido's statements come in the wake of a Reuters report, citing anonymous American officials, that the US is planning to send a military hospital ship to the region amid the tensions in Venezuela. The sources didn't specify which country the vessel would be deployed to, but the USNS Comfort hospital ship has previously made stops in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Honduras to extend help to Venezuelan refugees. The US military's Southern Command, which is responsible for operations in the region, didn't comment on the Reuter's report. The opposition leader's revelation comes as the US and Russia have been accusing each other of interfering in Venezuela's domestic politics. Washington has slammed Moscow's support for the government of democratically elected President Nicolas Maduro and urged it to support Guaido instead, who proclaimed himself an interim president in January 2019. Moscow has refused to recognise Guaido's claims and accused the US of supporting coup attempts and planning a military intervention in the Latin American state. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the US has a "full-scale set of options" to resolve the Venezuelan crisis, claiming that any actions that the US would take in the country would be "lawful". Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Venezuela Launches Criminal Action Against 7 Opp. Politicians After Failed Coup Sputnik News 21:20 07.05.2019(updated 21:48 07.05.2019) Venezuela's Supreme Court has opened a criminal action against seven opposition politicians for alleged treason and rebellion, the court said in a statement. The Supreme Court said in a statement that the politicians Henry Ramos Allup, Luis Florido, Marianela Magallanes, Jose Simon Calzadilla, Americo De Grazia, and Richard Blanco, as well as Andres Velazquez were accused by the attorney general for the alleged crimes of "treason, conspiracy, instigation of insurrection, military rebellion, conspiracy to commit a crime, usurpation of functions, and public incitement to disobedience". Some of the accused politicians appeared alongside opposition leader Juan Guaido during the failed military coup on 30 April outside the Generalissimo Francisco de Miranda Air Base. The Supreme Court approved a similar process last week against the vice president of the National Assembly, Edgar Zambrano. The decision comes after Guaido tried to convince the Venezuelan people and military to take to the streets to oust Maduro from power on 30 April. However, the attempt to overthrow the president failed. The situation in the country has worsened since January, when Guaido proclaimed himself the country's interim president and was recognised by the United States and dozens of other nations. Maduro, supported by China and Russia, among numerous other countries, has blamed the United States for seeking to overthrow his government and install Guaido in a bid to get hold of Venezuela's natural resources. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Boosting Presence in Middle East Triggered by Intel Discoveries - Reports Sputnik News 07:28 07.05.2019(updated 07:29 07.05.2019) MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Washington's decision to increase its military presence in the Middle East has been triggered by the fact that US intelligence has acquired data indicating that Iran is planning attacks on US forces and allies in the region, The Wall Street Journal confirmed on Tuesday, citing unnamed US officials. According to The Wall Street Journal, US intelligence has found out that Iran has plans to target US forces in Iraq and possibly in Syria, while it is also going to stage attacks in Ba-el-Mandeb strait near Yemen through its proxies and in the Persian Gulf with its own armed drones. Iran reportedly may seek to attack US forces in Kuwait as well. Iranian threat may be coming both from land and water, US officials told The Wall Street Journal, adding that they are surprised with the specificity of the Iranian plans to target US forces. However, it remains unclear if these plans are unavoidable, or Iranian moves depend on the further development of the US-Iranian relations. Between 5,000 and 7,000 US forces are operating in Iraq, while over 1,000 are operating in Syria and even more in Kuwait, sources added. They said that the administration of US President Donald Trump could position Patriot missile systems to the Middle East later. Sources suggested that it could be the CENTCOM, which Iran qualified as a terrorist group, who had asked Washington to increase its presence in the region where CENTCOM operated. US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the United States was deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force near Iran, to the US Central Command (CENTCOM) region, as "a clear and unmistakable message" to Tehran that Washington would respond to possible attacks. Media reports emerged on Monday that it was Israel who had briefed the United States about alleged Iranian plan to attack US targets or allies in the Gulf region. Washington's decision to boost its military presence in the Middle East comes amid growing tensions between Iran and the United States, which were sparked by the US decision to withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal, to reimpose Iran sanctions and to make all countries cut their Iranian oil imports to zero. In addition, the United States officially designated in April Iran's Islamic Revolution Guard Corps, a branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, as a terrorist group. In response, Tehran promptly placed the CENTCOM under the same designation. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Carrots', Warnings: US to Offer New Incentives to Venezuela Military - Report Sputnik News 04:45 07.05.2019(updated 05:25 07.05.2019) US Vice President Mike Pence is set to offer on Tuesday new incentives to Venezuela's military to turn against President Nicolas Maduro, Reuters reported Monday, citing a senior administration official. In a speech to the Americas Society at the US Department of State, Pence will also warn that Washington could soon sanction 25 additional magistrates on the Venezuelan supreme court, Reuters reported, citing the official on condition of anonymity. In addition, the US vice president will also offer assistance for refugees who have fled Venezuela and an economic aid package on a political transition, according to Reuters. The news comes on the heels of another Guaido's attempt made last week to depose of constitutionally elected Maduro by calling on Venezuelans and the military to take to the streets and overthrow Venezuela's president. However, Maduro said that the commanders of all regions and zones of integral defense had reiterated their full loyalty to the country's legitimate authorities. Amid the events, which Caracas has described as a failed coup attempt, US National Security Adviser John Bolton reiterated that "all options are on the table" with regard to Venezuela, adding that Washington hopes to see a peaceful transfer of power. The situation in Venezuela remains tense since January when Guaido proclaimed himself to be interim president. The United States and 54 other countries recognized Guaido and called on Maduro to step down. Russia, China, and a number of other countries have said they recognize Maduro as the only legitimate president of Venezuela. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remarks With Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland Before Their Meeting Remarks Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Lappi Arena Rovaniemi, Finland May 7, 2019 QUESTION: Foreign Minister Freeland, how do you respond to Secretary Pompeo's comments disputing Canada's claim to the Northwest Passage? SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning. (Laughter.) QUESTION: Good morning. Thank you. FOREIGN MINISTER FREELAND: Yes. Good to see everybody. Let me say a couple of things. First of all, Canada is very clear about the Northwest Passage being Canadian. There is both a very strong historic and geographic connection with Canada. Having said that, we collaborate closely with all of the members of the Arctic Council. One country is our neighbor, our neighbor to north and to the south, and we have a very close, very fruitful collaboration. And actually, as we see the conditions of the Northwest Passage changing with our changing climate, I think that's actually grounds for closer collaboration with the United States. SECRETARY POMPEO: The challenges in the Arctic aren't between the United States and Canada, let me assure you. There are others that threaten to use it in ways that are not consistent with the rule of law. And so we'll continue to have great conversations on these issues with our close friends, the Canadians. PARTICIPANT: Okay, thank you, press. QUESTION: Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Treasury Removes Sanctions Imposed on Former High-Ranking Venezuelan Intelligence Official After Public Break with Maduro and Dismissal U.S. Department of the Treasury May 7, 2019 Washington Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) removed sanctions imposed on Manuel Ricardo Cristopher Figuera (Cristopher), who last week broke ranks with the Maduro regime and rallied to the support of the Venezuelan constitution and the National Assembly. Cristopher is the former Director General of Venezuela's National Intelligence Service, more commonly known as SEBIN. On February 15, 2019, OFAC designated Cristopher pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13692 for being a current or former official of the Government of Venezuela. Today's action, taken in consultation with the U.S. Department of State, demonstrates that U.S. sanctions need not be permanent and are intended to bring about a positive change of behavior. The delisting of Cristopher also shows the good faith of the United States that removal of sanctions may be available for designated persons who take concrete and meaningful actions to restore democratic order, refuse to take part in human rights abuses, speak out against abuses committed by the illegitimate Maduro regime, or combat corruption in Venezuela. As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property, which had been blocked solely as a result of Cristopher's designation, are unblocked and all otherwise lawful transactions involving U.S. persons and Cristopher are no longer prohibited. View identifying information. #### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Better training 'a necessary and strategic investment' in peacekeeping that saves lives: Guterres 7 May 2019 - Better training for peacekeepers being deployed to increasingly hostile environments is a "necessary and strategic" investment which can also save lives, the UN Secretary-General told Security Council members on Tuesday. Addressing an open debate on training and capacity building for UN peacekeeping missions, Antonio Guterres said that "notable progress" had been made in training 'blue helmets' and others who serve in some of the most dangerous places on earth, but "much still needs to be done". In a statement, the Security Council also underscored the importance of peacekeeping overall, "as one of the most effective tools availablein the promotion and maintenance of international peace and security." Mr. Guterres said that beyond preparation, training improves performance. "And as we know, improved performance, reduces fatalities. As such training is a necessary and strategic investment in peacekeeping and is a shared responsibility between Member States and the Secretariat". In the UN's five most "high-risk" missions, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), Darfur (UNAMID), South Sudan (UNMISS) and Mali (MINUSMA), he said an Action Plan to improve security was ongoing, and a comprehensive Training Plan. "To help address the threat of improvised explosive devices and other dangers, we are working with Troop and Police-Contributing Countries to ensure that units joining our missions meet our operational readiness standards before deployment, and that they have undergone pre-deployment training in accordance with UN standards", he said. "We are also placing a renewed emphasis on in-mission training to ensure that our peacekeepers benefit from the necessary support in the field." 'Talent pipeline' for senior women officers Mr. Guterres said more mobile teams were needed from Member States, and to encourage more women leaders, a "talent pipeline specifically for senior women military officers is under development". He said continued support through government funding was "essential", noting the "encouraging" downward trend in allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse in peacekeeping missions. "But we are also minded that we must be vigilant in our prevention efforts and seek accountability whenever the zero-tolerance policy has been violated". In conclusion, the UN chief noted "training gaps remain in critical areas such as weapons handling, first aid, human rights and protection issues." He urged Member States to consider "increased funding, in-kind contributions of equipment" and proving more trainers. In its statement, the Security Council welcomed the efforts undertaken overall by the Secretary-General "to mobilize all partners and stakeholders in support of more effective United Nations peacekeeping through his initiative Action for Peacekeeping (A4P), and recognizes the added value that the Declaration of Shared Commitments on Peacekeeping Operations has in relation to training and capacity building." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hill AFB F-35A units assist in F-16 fighter training By Micah Garbarino, 388th Fighter Wing Public Affairs / Published May 07, 2019 HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah (AFNS) -- Brand new F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots received a unique training experience at Hill Air Force Base, with the help of the active duty 388th and Reserve 419th Fighter Wings and the F-35A Lightning II. For the last two weeks, F-16 basic course students and instructor pilots from the 311th Fighter Squadron at Holloman AFB, New Mexico, have been flying with and against the Air Force's first operational F-35A units. "The fact that we can show up and get the airspace and red air support from a fifth generation asset, flying against an F-35, that is an 'all-timer' for these young pilots," said Maj. Benjamin Walters, 311th FS instructor pilot. "Today I flew with a kid who has maybe 16 rides in the jet and now three of those are against an F-35. He had the best day of his life. There are guys with thousands of hours in the seat that haven't had that experience yet." For the first week, the pilots flew basic fighter maneuvers one versus one engagements commonly called "dogfighting." They also flew advanced combat maneuvers, two aircraft versus four or more enemy aircraft. The students fly in a two-seat F-16, with an instructor in the back. The dogfighting training missions start out scripted, with set passes and distances, and then the students are challenged to improvise against more experienced pilots in a very capable jet. "These guys are getting really good at flying the F-35 and they can present some aggressive situations that force young pilots into errors," Walters said. "It's not always the guy who should win that does win. At some point it's pilots in cockpits that win fights." The F-35A is a platform built on stealth, with advanced sensors and the ability to target and eliminate threats long before they are within visual range. "That's the assumption, and we are very good at that. But in the fog and friction of war and chaos, fighting within visual range will probably always happen," said Maj. Jondavid Hertzel, 421st FS weapons officer. "And that's why we train to it. Prepare for the unexpected in wartime." Every aircraft has a different set of strengths and weaknesses, which combined with a pilot's skill and experience level can dictate the outcome of a fight. As the first combat-capable F-35A units in the Air Force, pilots in the 388th and 419th FWs have been developing tactics that can give them an edge in any fight. "There's been a lot said about the F-35's dogfighting capability," said Maj. Thomas Meyer, 34th FS weapons officer. "We've had a lot of time to develop our tactics, which take advantage of our strengths and exploit the weaknesses of other platforms. The F-35 has become very capable in that arena." During the second week the pilots also integrated on missions in a large force exercise with friendly and enemy air made up of both F-16s and F-35s. Much of the learning takes place in the briefing room after the mission. Pilots can review their actions and also see what the enemy was seeing. "You don't get the distance between fourth generation and fifth generation fighters until we get back to tape review. It's overwhelming to look at those screens and see all the data that is provided to these guys," Walters said. "That's a lifetime experience these young pilots will take forward when they integrate with the F-35A in the future." The 388th and 419th FWs are the Air Force's first operational combat-capable F-35 units, having received the first jets in October 2015. The active duty 388th FW and Air Force Reserve 419th FW fly and maintain the jet in a Total Force partnership, which capitalizes on the strength of both components. By the end of this year, Hill AFB will be home to 78 F-35s. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mixed Mideast Reaction Over US Carrier, Bomber Task Force Deployment By Edward Yeranian May 07, 2019 An announcement by U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton that Washington is sending an aircraft carrier group and bomber task force to the Middle East is drawing mixed reactions from countries in the region. Iran has condemned the move, while some U.S. allies nod in agreement. Arab media announced the U.S. deployment of the aircraft carrier group USS Abraham Lincoln and an air strike force, amid reports of possible tensions with Iran and threats by Iranian officials to "close the Strait of Hormuz," to shipping from the Gulf. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, told a group of visiting students and teachers Sunday that Tehran would ultimately defeat (its declared enemies) the United States and Israel, "with the help of God." He said that despite all the "propaganda" and other measures that the (U.S.) is taking and despite Iran's military disadvantage, he thinks that God will help Iran defeat the U.S. and bring (Israel) to its knees. Some Arab media reports said that Iran and its Lebanese proxy militia Hezbollah had supplied the Palestinian Hamas movement in Gaza with a new rocket launch system to hit targets inside Israel, used during recent fighting. VOA could not independently confirm the claim. Al Arabiya TV analyst Youssef Azizi claims Iran has brought a number of its proxy militias from Lebanon, Iraq and Afghanistan to its western Khuzestan Province and "might possibly try to attack U.S. forces in Iraq or Afghanistan." Iranian media say the militias are helping victims of recent flooding. Iranian analyst Massoud al Faikh told Arab media that he believes Iran "has no incentive to launch an attack against its adversaries, since it is weaker than they are." He went on to say, however, that Iran does have a "strong network of speed boats which could launch attacks against shipping in the Gulf." Iran's ISNA news agency also reported that President Hassan Rouhani would "respond on Wednesday to U.S. sanctions and (Washington's) withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal (JCPOA)...by imposing counter-measures based on Articles 26 and 36 of the deal." U.S. President Donald Trump pulled out of that deal on May 8 of last year. Rouhani told a gathering Sunday that the U.S. was "trying to bring down the Iranian regime" and Tehran must foil those efforts. He said Tehran is engaged in a war with the U.S. to destroy Iran's political system and that Tehran must educate its young people well, in order to prevent that from happening. Rouhani told another gathering that the U.S. was "trying to starve it financially by preventing it from exporting oil in addition to creating dissension among the Iranian people." He went on to suggest that Iran "must increase its sales of petrochemical products to increase its revenues." Trump is expected to announce new sanctions on Tehran on May 8, including on its petrochemical product exports, on the anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear accord. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address All Sri Lanka bombing attackers killed or arrested: Police Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 07:44AM Sri Lanka's police have announced that all the assailants involved in the deadly bomb attacks in the country last month have either been killed or arrested. At least 257 people were killed and hundreds of others wounded as a series of bomb attacks hit churches and luxury hotels in Sri Lanka on April 21. Police chief Chandana Wickramaratne said in an audio statement that the dead militants included "two bomb experts." "We have seized the explosives they had stored for future attacks," he added. Wickramaratne who was appointed by President Maithripala Sirisena as acting police chief last week after his predecessor was suspended over his failure to act on warnings about the attacks said public life was slowly returning to normal with the lifting of curfews imposed after the bombings. Public schools were reopened on Monday, but attendance fell to below 10 percent in many places amid fears of further attacks. "We have strengthened security for all schools," Wickramaratne stressed, adding, "We are also conducting a program to create awareness about safety and security in all schools." Wickramaratne did not specify the number of those detained over the attacks, but police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said on Monday that 73 people, including nine women, were being held. The local group National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) has been blamed for the Easter Sunday attacks, but the Daesh terrorist group has also claimed the bombings. Meanwhile, police said religious tensions have eased at the town of Negombo, north of Colombo, which suffered the highest death toll in the April 21 attacks. The Roman Catholic Church appealed for calm after Christians attacked dozens of Muslim-owned businesses, homes, and vehicles in the town on Sunday night. Two people were reportedly arrested. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN launches innovative programme to detect and disrupt terrorist travel 7 May 2019 - A new programme aimed at improving the tracking of suspected terrorists, using state-of-the-art software, was launched by the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) on Tuesday. The launch at UN Headquarters in New York, of the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel Programme, comes in the wake of the territorial defeat of the Iraq and Syria-based ISIL terrorist group. Thousands of foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) are attempting to return home or relocate to safe havens or conflict zones, representing a major threat to international peace and security. The Programme, described by UNOCT as a "flagship initiative," is designed to help countries to enhance the detection of FTFs and serious criminals, through the collection, identification, and analysis of their passenger data. A mix of technology and legislation Several UN counter-terrorism departments, as well as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), will work closely together to implement the initiative, which provides countries with free access to advanced "goTravel" software, which analyses travel data to help countries detect and disrupt terrorists' movements. Another aspect of the Programme involves the UN supporting national authorities in the development of legislation and national expertise, via training and certification to operate the software lawfully and effectively. The "goTravel" software is a reconfigured version of a system donated by the Netherlands to the United Nations. Recent attacks "tragic reminders of global reach of the scourge of terrorism" Speaking at the launch of the Programme, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said that recent attacks, notably those in Kenya, New Zealand and Sri Lanka, are "tragic reminders of the global reach of the scourge of terrorism." The UN chief noted the "dramatic movement" of terrorists to and from conflict zones around the world over the past seven years, in particular the estimated 40,000 FTFs from 110 countries who may have travelled to join terror groups in Syria and Iraq. Mr. Guterres also stated that the Programme will help states to collect, process and share travel data with other competent national and international authorities, with full respect for privacy and other fundamental freedoms. Balancing surveillance with data and human rights protection In an interview with UN News, Jelle Postma, chief of the Countering Terrorist Travel and Aviation Security Section in the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, insisted that the technology was built with safeguards in place for data and human rights protection, explaining that after a certain period of time, sensitive data elements, such as sexual orientation, or trade union membership, will be automatically deleted by the system. Mr Postma said that the UN will work with national parliaments to ensure that new surveillance laws include independent and transparent oversight mechanisms. The programme is currently funded by India, Japan, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sri Lankan President: '99 Percent' of Easter Bombing Suspects Arrested By VOA News May 07, 2019 Sri Lanka's president said Tuesday that almost all of the suspects who carried out the deadly Easter bombings on churches and hotels have been arrested. President Maithripala Sirisena told Associated Press that "99-percent" of the suspects had been seized, as well as their explosive materials. Police said an estimated $40 million in assets owned by the perpetrators have been frozen. More than 250 people were killed more two weeks ago when Sri Lankan militants bombed churches full of Easter worshipers and luxury hotels. Two days later, Islamic State claimed responsibility. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said earlier Tuesday all of the jihadists responsible for the attacks have been arrested or killed but that the country is still threatened by "global terrorism." Wickremesinghe told parliament despite the dismantling of much of the network linked to the attacks, the Buddhist-majority country needs more international help to prevent future attacks. "We need intelligence-sharing with foreign partners to deal with this challenge," he said. Eight countries are already participating in the Sri Lankan-led investigation, including the United States. Sri Lankan authorities have said two little-known domestic Islamist groups were responsible for the bombings, the National Thowheeth Jamaath (NTJ) and Jamathei Millathu Ibrahim (JMI). Tourism in Sri Lanka declined nearly eight percent in April from one year ago as travelers stayed away after the attacks. But on Tuesday President Sirisena declared the country is safe for tourists. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Fears Grow Islamic State's Foreign Fighters Ready to Carry On By Jeff Seldin May 07, 2019 Even as the Islamic State's caliphate was clinging to life with its last defenders cornered in a small town in northeastern Syria, the terror group managed to shock those who would eventually see it die. Instead of waiting out about 1,000 civilians and 300 or so hard-core IS fighters who had retreated to Baghuz, the U.S.-led coalition watched for weeks in late February and March, as upwards of 30,000 civilians and 5,000 fighters, slowly surrendered. "Very much unanticipated," a senior U.S. defense official said at the time, describing what he called "the magnitude of humanity" flowing out of the terror group's final shred of territory. "We continue to be surprised by the numbers," the official added. But when it comes to the Islamic State terror group, numbers have always been a challenge for the United States and its partners, starting with their first efforts to measure the terror group's appeal to would-be jihadists from across the globe. Counting IS foreign fighters And it is that same uncertainty that has some officials and analysts worried that the narrative surrounding the demise of IS foreign fighters that the majority are dead or in custody may be wrong. "We still have pretty reasonable numbers still in the region right now that are almost certainly active," said Seth Jones, director of the Transnational Threats Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. "It's hard to know if some have stayed and given up the fight," said Jones, who has been studying the rise of Salafi-jihadist movements worldwide. "But the fact that they're still there, just the fact that they're free, indicates that there's a reasonable chance they're still committed to jihadist activity." Just this past week, those jihadis got a call to arms when IS issued a new video of reclusive leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi urging followers to seek vengeance for the fall of Baghuz. "The threat persists," said U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Stabilization Denise Natali. "ISIS remains a determined enemy as evidenced by Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi's first appearance in yearsexhorting his supporters to keep up the fight despite territorial losses." U.S. intelligence officials first began raising concerns about jihadists, or so-called foreign fighters, flocking to the growing civil war in Syria in early 2014, estimating there were about 7,500 from some 50 countries. Just a year later, the estimated number of fighters in Syria and Iraq had more than doubled. And the numbers are growing even now, not from a new influx but as intelligence services the world over continue to learn of more people, young and old, who left their homes to fight under the banner of the black flag. Senior U.S. counterterrorism officials told VOA that at last count, an estimated 45,000 fighters a jump of 5,000 from the previous estimate had flooded the battlefields of Syria and Iraq, almost all in the name of IS. Tracking IS foreign fighters If getting a grip on the number of foreign fighters who joined Islamic State has been challenging, following them once they joined the terror group's ranks has been even more difficult. To be sure, many have been killed. But at least about 15,000 are thought to have left the caliphate, two-thirds of whom are likely still at large. According to an August 2018 report by the United Nations, another 10,000 fighters were in Iraqi custody. More recently, U.S. defense officials have said at least 2,000 more are being held by the Syrian Democratic Forces, the predominantly Kurdish force that liberated IS' last pocket of territory in the Middle Euphrates River Valley. "We anticipate that number will rise as we work with the SDF to verify the national identities of ISIS fighters in SDF custody," said Pentagon spokesman Commander Sean Robertson, using an acronym for the terror group. Still, thousands more are as of yet unaccounted for, the U.N. report warning that as of mid-2018, increasing numbers were finding refuge in Afghanistan, "bringing with them skills in handling weaponry and improvised explosive devices and knowledge of military tactics." "Central Asian fighters tend to feel most comfortable relocating among Afghans of Uzbek and Tajik ethnicity," the United Nations said. Other foreign fighters, perhaps fearing the imminent collapse of the IS caliphate in Syria, may have made their way back to Iraq by exploiting vulnerabilities along the Syria-Iraq border. Some even continued to join the fight. Coalition officials told the U.S. Defense Department Inspector General this past January, "the actual number is unknown but estimated that it is 'most likely 50 per month.'" The numbers, and the threat they represent, have resonated to a degree at the highest levels of the U.S. government. "We're under no illusions that this issue writ-large has gone away," a senior U.S. administration official said this past December when asked about IS' staying power in Syria and Iraq. "In terms of the next phase of the mission, it is continuing to remain vigilant about the ongoing threat of ISIS," the official said, pointing to places like Libya and Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, long seen as potential landing spots for surviving foreign fighters. U.S. intelligence officials have also warned that foreign fighters could find refuge with IS branches, or even less formal networks, in more than a dozen other countries, including Turkey, which for years had served as a gateway for foreign fighters looking to enter Syria. With the collapse of the terror group's territorial control in Iraq and Syria, such concerns are starting to take center stage. "We're going to remain very vigilant about potential ISIS activities and their related groups," the senior official said, anticipating this moment. "Across the region and around the world, quite frankly." This story is the first in a series looking at the threat of IS foreign fighters. Next up, a look at where the IS foreign fighters are going now. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Indian Army Defers War Fighting Exercise Amid Ongoing Tensions With Pakistan Sputnik News 19:38 07.05.2019 Earlier, the Pakistan Navy also cancelled all its overseas deployments, as the Indian Navy increased its naval assets in the northern Arabian Sea soon after the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 14 February. New Delhi (Sputnik) Amid a massive deployment of troops along the Line of Control (LoC) the de facto border the Indian Army has deferred a critical war fighting exercise to test the Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) for some time. The Integrated Battle Groups is an all-new war fighting concept including cross-border strikes mooted by the army under the western command last December in the Land Warfare Doctrine 2018. "The exercise was planned to be held in May this year, but due to the deployment along the Pakistan border, the wargames had to be postponed for some time. The exercise will be held soon after the precautionary deployment gets over", India's private news agency ANI quoted army sources as saying. As per the Land Warfare Doctrine 2018, the Indian Army will employ "composite" IBGs comprising a mix of five to six battalions to execute conventional combat operations for "greater flexibility in force application". As per the doctrine, each IBG would be larger than the existing 3,000 personnel-strong brigades, but smaller than a 10,000-strong division. It would be headed by a two-star officer. The IBGs include infantry, armoured, artillery, air-defence, and support units, all of which would be backed by attack helicopters. The 1.3 million-strong Indian Army has deployed most of its strength and capabilities along the western border mostly since the February clash with Pakistan, when the Indian Air Force conducted an air strike in the Balakot area inside Pakistan and in retaliation, Islamabad shot down an Indian fighter Jet on 27 February. Earlier, the Pakistan Navy also cancelled all its overseas deployments since the Indian Navy increased its naval assets in the northern Arabian Sea soon after the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 14 February. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address India to Deploy Russian-Origin T-90 Tanks Along Pakistan Border Sputnik News 14:21 07.05.2019 Described as one of the most lethal MBTs in the world, the T-90S is vaunted for its mobility, lethal firepower, and first hit ability during engagements. New Delhi (Sputnik): The Indian Army has plans to induct 464 Russian-origin upgraded T-90 "Bhishma" main battle tanks as the Indian Defence Ministry is set to place the order to the state-owned ordnance factory located in India's southern state of Tamil Nadu. The tanks will equip 10 armoured regiments of the Army and be inducted in the 2022-2026 timeframe. The 46.5-ton main battle tank (MBT) powered by a 1,000 HP engine is likely to deployed along the Pakistani border. The first 64 tanks should be delivered in 30-41 months. Sputnik reported last month that India's Cabinet Committee on Security had given clearance to the purchase of an additional 464 T-90s at a cost of around $1.93 billion. The tanks will be assembled at the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) in Avadi area in Tamil Nadu's capital city of Chennai from semi-knocked-down (SKD) kits from Uralvagonzavod the Russian tank manufacturer. Sources told Sputnik that the proposal to assemble the tanks from SKD kits was taken as the Indian facility was not producing the T-90S at the desired pace. The HVF had in 2006-07 signed a contract to produce 1,000 T-90S tanks under licence from Russia by 2020. But the HVF has been able to supply only 350-400 T-90S to date. The T-90S tank is equipped with a 125mm smoothbore gun stabilised in elevation and azimuth that is capable of firing all types of ammunition, including laser-guided missiles (Invar) to a range of 5km. The gun has an automatic loader ensuring a high rate of fire. The tanks additionally have a 12.7mm anti-craft machine gun and 7.62mm co-axial machine gun supported with high accuracy sighting systems. Capable of night fighting, the tank is equipped with night vision devices and a thermal imaging system. It is also protected by explosive reactive armour (ERA). Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran to Announce 'Diminishing Commitments' to Nuke Deal Amid Tensions With US Sputnik News 15:42 07.05.2019(updated 18:08 07.05.2019) EU countries previously introduced the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX) in order to bypass US sanctions against Tehran and protect the European companies against the secondary sanctions. The Iranian Foreign Ministry is set to announce to the remaining five signatories of the so-called nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) "diminishing commitments" to the agreement, as well as that President Hassan Rouhani will send a letter, state media said on Tuesday. The report comes shortly after Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in an interview with Sputnik that Iran would be taking steps concerning the nuclear deal if the European Union is unable to help Tehran counter US sanctions. "As long as Iran's interests are protected by the JCPOA, and the EU sticks to its commitments, Iran will comply with the agreement. As soon as the European Union is unable to help Iran counter-sanctions, Iran's unilateral adherence to the JCPOA may lose its meaning. In that case, the restrictions under the JCPOA may be reviewed", Zarif said. The minister also stressed that a mechanism similar to INSTEX may be implemented in participation with other interested countries, including Russia and Turkey. "Iran's version of the European INSTEX is a company known as SATMA. The European Union has been informed of it", he noted. The Iranian nuclear deal has topped the international agenda since US President Donald Trump announced Washington's withdrawal from the accord in May 2018, also re-instating sanctions against the Islamic Republic due to its nuclear programme. Other signatories to the deal, including Russia, China, France, Germany, and the UK, however, have confirmed their commitment to the document, also slamming the restrictions Washington unilaterally imposed on Tehran. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Moving New Troops to Middle East is Act of 'Psychological Warfare' - Tehran Sputnik News 11:00 07.05.2019(updated 11:21 07.05.2019) The statement from the Islamic Republic comes after US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that Washington was deploying the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force near Iran's borders, describing them as "unrelenting force" that would respond to any attack on US interests. Keyvan Khosravi, a spokesman for Iran's National Security Council, said on Tuesday that previous statements by US officials concerning the deployment of the Carrier Strike Group and a bomber task force to the Middle East is "an unskillful use of a worn-out event to wage a psychological war against Iran". The move by the US military comes amid a new deterioration in relations between the two countries. Earlier in April, the US officially designated Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a part of the Iranian Armed Forces, as a terrorist organisation. In response, Tehran blacklisted the entire US military as terrorists as well. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Military Confirms 'Recent and Clear' Iranian Threat By Carla Babb, Steve Herman May 07, 2019 The U.S. military has "recent and clear indications" of an Iranian threat against American forces in the Middle East, defense officials said Tuesday. It appeared that "Iranian and Iranian proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack U.S. forces in the region. This includes threats on land and [at sea]," U.S. Central Command spokesman Navy Capt. William Urban said. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday canceled a scheduled trip to Germany and made an unannounced visit to Baghdad to meet with Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi to share concerns about the increasing Iranian activity. "I wanted to go to Baghdad to speak with the leadership there, to assure them that we stood ready to continue to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation," Pompeo told reporters en route to Baghdad to meet with Abdul-Mahdi. U.S. officials also are speeding the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier, and its strike group from European waters to the Arabian Sea, and deploying a B-52 bomber task force in response to the potential Iranian threat. "What you see is us getting in the right posture for that dynamic environment," Acting Secretary of Defense Pat Shanahan told reporters at the Pentagon Tuesday. On Monday, Pompeo said, "We have continued to see activity that leads us to believe that there's escalation that may be taking place, and so we're taking all the appropriate actions, both from a security perspective as well as our ability to make sure the president has a wide range of options in the event that something should actually take place." The concerns expressed by Pompeo and U.S. defense officials contrast with U.S. Central Command's (CENTCOM) assessment just over a month ago. Despite Iran's "significant capability" in Syria and the region, CENTCOM officials said there were no indications Tehran was setting its sights on U.S. forces. "Iran's priority is to defeat ISIS, which it sees as an existential threat," the Defense Department's Lead Inspector General for Operation Inherent Resolve said, summarizing CENTCOM's March 26 assessment in a report issued Tuesday. "They are not displaying the intent to attack U.S. forces," the report added, warning, "this calculus could change if Iran perceives a U.S. desire to ramp up anti-Iranian activities in a post-ISIS environment," using an acronym for the militant group. Some former U.S. intelligence and security officials worry, however, that recent rhetoric from the White House combined with its ongoing "maximum pressure" campaign, has done just that. New America Foundation Fellow Ned Price told VOA an unusual and aggressive Sunday evening statement issued in the name of the U.S. national security adviser John Bolton in which he warned the U.S. is "fully prepared to respond to any attack" makes it seem like the U.S. is "intent on driving the Iranians into a corner." "The concern with Bolton's threat coming in the midst of a series of escalations from the Trump administration underscores the concern that the administration is trying to goad the Iranians into an unwise and ill-considered reaction," Price, a former spokesman for the Obama-era National Security Council, said. Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz echoed that sentiment on Capitol Hill Tuesday, telling VOA, "John Bolton's history lends itself to the most worrisome analysis of this situation." However, Schatz, a Democrat, remained confident the United States and Iran were "a long way from anything kinetic (violent), and hopefully we will remain a long way from anything kinetic." The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group includes fighter jets, helicopters, destroyers and more than 6,000 sailors. The group left a U.S. port in (the state of) Virginia in early April. The Trump administration has been working to apply what it calls a "maximum pressure campaign" against Iran to try to get the country to change its behavior, including its sponsorship of terror groups and what the White House alleges is a ballistic missile program that threatens the United States. In response to last month's U.S. designation of a key part of Iran's military (IRGC) as a terrorist group, Iran called the United States a state sponsor of terrorism and said U.S. forces in the Middle East are terror groups. Jeff Seldin and Michael Bowman contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraqi Air Force to receive four more KAI T-50 Golden Eagle warplanes Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 09:08PM The Iraqi military is going to receive a new batch of South Korean KAI T-50 Golden Eagle supersonic advanced trainers and light combat aircraft under a deal struck between Baghdad and Seoul several years ago. The Iraqi Air Force, in a brief statement released on Tuesday, announced that four T-50 trainer jets have been shipped, and will arrive in the country by the end of the current month. On December 8 last year, six KAI T-50 Golden Eagle warplanes arrived at the Martyr Mohammed Alaa airbase in Baghdad. The Iraqi government confirmed on October 28 that it had received a batch of six South Korean combat aircraft. Back in March 2017, Baghdad also announced that six T-50 trainer jets had arrived at a military airbase in the Arab country. In December 2013, Iraq signed a contract for 24 T-50 fighter jets, plus additional equipment and pilot training over the next 20 years. The contract was initially estimated at $1.1 billion, but the manufacturer Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) later put the figure beyond $2 billion. The KAI T-50 Golden Eagle's maiden flight occurred in 2002. The aircraft entered active service with the Republic of Korea Air Force in 2005. Iraq has been seeking to upgrade its military equipment and boost its defense power, specifically after Daesh began its campaign of terror and destruction in the Arab country. Major General Walid Khalifa, the Commander of the Iraqi Army's 9th Armored Division, told the Arabic-language National Iraqi News Agency (NINA) on April 9 that the country's army had received a batch of advanced T-90 battle tanks from Russia under a major deal struck between Moscow and Baghdad in July 2017. He, however, did not provide any information about the exact number of the battle tanks. Khalifa noted that Iraqi army troops are prepared to operate the tanks after having received training at the hands of Russian experts. The T-90 is a third-generation Russian battle tank built upon the time-proven Soviet T-72 design. It is among the best-selling tanks in the world, and known for its firepower, enhanced protection and mobility. The T-90 features a smoothbore 2A46M 125mm main gun, which can fire both armor-piercing shells and anti-tank missiles. The advanced tank also features sophisticated armor, ensuring all-round protection of the crew and critical systems, including explosive reactive armor and active infrared jammers to defend it from inbound rocket-propelled grenades, anti-tank missiles and other projectiles. Indian, Algerian and Azerbaijani militaries have purchased hundreds of T-90 battle tanks in past years. Kuwait, Vietnam and Egypt have also expressed strong interest in buying the tank. The Iraqi military plans to reinforce its fleet of M1A1 Abrams main battle tanks with T-90s. A large number of American M1A1 Abrams tanks have been damaged in the fight against Daesh Takfiri terrorists. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraq rebuffs US demand to stop Iran energy imports Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 11:04AM Iraq's Electricity Minister Luay al-Khateeb says his country brushed aside US demands that Baghdad stop gas and power imports from neighboring Iran. Khateeb, whose remarks were quoted by Iraqi media on Monday, did not say whether the Americans had made the demand after ending waivers for exports of crude oil from Iran this month. US pressures on Iraq to wean itself off Iran has become a major point of conflict between Washington and Baghdad. A lightening rod in their spat is Iraq's reliance on Iranian gas imports to generate electricity consumed daily in the country. Washington is pressing Baghdad to source them from other countries or develop its own energy self-sufficiency. Iraqi leaders say the country cannot stop Iranian gas imports without serious electricity shortages. In their latest back and forth, Iraq told the Americans that it needed Iran gas imports for at least three more years, Khateeb said. "Iraq now imports nearly 1,200 megawatts of electricity from Iran. It also imports gas from Iran to produce another 2,800 megawatts of electricity," the Iraqi minister said. "If in the next two to three years, large projects are implemented in the field of electricity generation, we can reach self-sufficiency and need no more imports," he added. Iraq has signed agreements with General Electric and Siemens over potential deals to develop the country's power infrastructure. Siemens had been favorite to win a contract to supply 11 gigawatts of power-generation equipment in a possible $15 billion deal, but the German group has to share the work with US rival after pressure from the Trump administration. Washington is also pushing for Saudi Arabian and Kuwaiti investment in Iraqi power infrastructure in order to reduce Iran's trade share. Without Iran, however, Iraq could lose around a third of its power overnight. The Arab country faces sweltering months ahead when the electricity shortage becomes acute. The shortage sparked violent protests in southern Basra last September, which spread to other cities, including Baghdad. Iran is also Iraq's third-largest trading partner, with an estimated $12 billion in cross-border trade per year, and the countries share strong cultural, religious and geographic ties. Last month, Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi visited Iran for his first official visit since he took office and the two countries pledged to raise trade to $20 billion in two years. Head of the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC) Hassan Montazer Torbati said this month that Iran is about to raise gas exports to neighboring Iraq to 35 million cubic meters a day this year. "Last year we exported gas to Turkey, Baghdad and Basra with an average of over 40 million cubic meters a day, and this year, gas exports to Iraq will reach more than 35 million cubic meters per day," he told a news conference in Tehran. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mike Pompeo Arrives in Baghdad for Unannounced Visit - Report Sputnik News 22:53 07.05.2019(updated 23:30 07.05.2019) US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has arrived in Baghdad unannounced, AFP reported citing a source in the Iraqi government. Mike Pompeo landed in Baghdad late Tuesday, according to AFP report. The US Secretary of State is reportedly expected to meet with Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi. Earlier Mike Pompeo was slated to meet with German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, as well as German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas for talks in Berlin. However, the meeting was cancelled over "international security issues," Reuters reported at the time citing a German government source. The alleged visit comes two days after the US announced deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and bomber task force to the Middle East under the pretext of confronting the "Iranian threat." In late April Iraq hosted a one-day summit, which brought together the country's neighbours: Syria, Turkey, Jordan, and Kuwait, as well as two long-time rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran in a blow to the US-led "Arab NATO" initiative, Press TV reported at the time. The summit has marked a shift in Iraq's foreign policy, with the country assuming the role of a mediator in the region as US President Donald Trump has revived the Obama-era concept of an anti-Iranian alliance of Gulf nations. In January, Mike Pompeo, while finalizing his Middle East tour, in a speech in Cairo noted that the US was working on building a new Middle Eastern alliance led by Washington. According to him, the White House is working to forge a Middle East Strategic Alliance that would bring together members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia), as well as Egypt and Jordan. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pompeo Visits Iraq Amid Reports of Iranian Missile Threat By Carla Babb, Steve Herman May 07, 2019 U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has made an unscheduled visit to Iraq, amid growing tensions with Iran after intelligence reports indicated that Iran moved short-range ballistic missiles by boat in waters off its shores. The move, first reported by CNN, was one of several clues that Iran might be considering or preparing to attack U.S. forces in the region, a government official told AP. The official told the news agency that they were not sure whether the boats with missiles represented a new military capability or were only being moved to new locations. Pompeo on Tuesday canceled a scheduled trip to Germany and made an unannounced visit to Baghdad to meet with Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi to share concerns about the increasing Iranian activity. "I wanted to go to Baghdad to speak with the leadership there, to assure them that we stood ready to continue to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation," Pompeo told reporters en route to Baghdad to meet with Abdul-Mahdi. U.S. officials also are speeding the arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier, and its strike group from European waters to the Arabian Sea, and deploying a B-52 bomber task force in response to the potential Iranian threat. "What you see is us getting in the right posture for that dynamic environment," Acting Secretary of Defense Pat Shanahan told reporters Tuesday at the Pentagon. On Monday, Pompeo said, "We have continued to see activity that leads us to believe that there's escalation that may be taking place, and so we're taking all the appropriate actions, both from a security perspective as well as our ability to make sure the president has a wide range of options in the event that something should actually take place." The concerns expressed by Pompeo and U.S. defense officials contrast with U.S. Central Command's (CENTCOM) assessment just over a month ago. Despite Iran's "significant capability" in Syria and the region, CENTCOM officials said there were no indications Tehran was setting its sights on U.S. forces. "Iran's priority is to defeat ISIS, which it sees as an existential threat," the Defense Department's Lead Inspector General for Operation Inherent Resolve said, summarizing CENTCOM's March 26 assessment in a report issued Tuesday. "They are not displaying the intent to attack U.S. forces," the report added, warning, "this calculus could change if Iran perceives a U.S. desire to ramp up anti-Iranian activities in a post-ISIS environment," using an acronym for the militant group. Some former U.S. intelligence and security officials worry, however, that recent rhetoric from the White House combined with its ongoing "maximum pressure" campaign, has done just that. New America Foundation Fellow Ned Price told VOA an unusual and aggressive Sunday evening statement issued in the name of the U.S. national security adviser John Bolton in which he warned the U.S. is "fully prepared to respond to any attack" makes it seem like the U.S. is "intent on driving the Iranians into a corner." "The concern with Bolton's threat coming in the midst of a series of escalations from the Trump administration underscores the concern that the administration is trying to goad the Iranians into an unwise and ill-considered reaction," said Price, a former spokesman for the Obama-era National Security Council. Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz echoed that sentiment Tuesday on Capitol Hill, telling VOA, "John Bolton's history lends itself to the most worrisome analysis of this situation." However, Schatz, a Democrat, remained confident the United States and Iran were "a long way from anything kinetic [violent], and hopefully we will remain a long way from anything kinetic." The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group includes fighter jets, helicopters, destroyers and more than 6,000 sailors. The group left a U.S. port in the state of Virginia in early April. The Trump administration has been working to apply what it calls a "maximum pressure campaign" against Iran to try to get the country to change its behavior, including its sponsorship of terror groups and what the White House alleges is a ballistic missile program that threatens the United States. In response to last month's U.S. designation of a key part of Iran's military (IRGC) as a terrorist group, Iran called the United States a state sponsor of terrorism and said U.S. forces in the Middle East are terror groups. Jeff Seldin and Michael Bowman contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Data From Japanese F-35A's Last Flight Still Missing as Parts of Black Box Found Sputnik News 18:37 07.05.2019(updated 18:38 07.05.2019) Japanese authorities launched an underwater search and recovery operation last month in an attempt to retrieve the wreckage of an F-35A fighter jet that crashed in the Pacific Ocean on 9 April. Fragments of a heavily damaged flight data recorder and a piece from the canopy of a Japanese Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) F-35A, which crashed last month, have been recovered from the Pacific Ocean, Defence Minister Takeshi Iwaya said on Tuesday. According to the Kyodo news agency, the debris do not contain data from the final flight of the stealth jet, which was developed by US company Lockheed Martin Corp., and the search for the remaining parts of the black box will continue with US military support. Some parts were retrieved "on or after 3 May", Iwaya said, adding, that the Defence Ministry "is studying (the parts), but at this point, the all-important memory (of the flight data recorder) has not been recovered". The minister then revealed that the US and Japanese militaries have used data from a seabed research ship owned by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, as well as a US-chartered special "diving support" vessel, the Van Gogh, for deep-sea operations to recover the fragments. The F-35A went down on 9 April, off Aomori Prefecture in north-eastern Japan, becoming the first reported case of a crash of this model. Despite the incident, Iwaya announced in mid-April that Tokyo would proceed with the purchase of American fighter jets. "At the moment, we have no information that could lead to a change in the plans [to purchase F-35A]. We do not intend to change our plans for the acquisition and deployment of such aircraft", the minister was cited by Kyodo. US and Japanese search-and-rescue teams previously managed to discover part of the plane's tail about 130 kilometres offshore the Misawa Air Base, while the rest of the fuselage, as well as the pilot are yet to be found. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Death toll of Libya's Tripoli fighting rises to 432: WHO People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 08:23, May 07, 2019 TRIPOLI, May 6 (Xinhua) -- A total of 432 people have been killed and 2,069 others injured in the fighting between the UN-backed Libyan government and the east-based army in and around the capital Tripoli, the World Health Organization (WHO) said Monday. "Since the armed conflict in Tripoli, Libya began, 432 people have died, 2,069 people have been wounded, and more than 50,000 have had to flee their homes," WHO tweeted. "Every day of violence means more people killed, injured, or displaced," WHO added. The east-based army, led by Khalifa Haftar, has been leading a military campaign since early April to take over Tripoli, where the UN-backed government is based. During a cabinet meeting last Thursday, Libyan Prime Minister Fayez Serraj said there will be no cease-fire until the rival army forces "return to where they came from." Libya has been struggling to make a democratic transition amid chaos since the fall of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN panel links airstrikes on Libya's government to UAE Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 07:17AM United Nations inspectors are reportedly probing missile attacks on Libya's capital of Tripoli with the apparent use of drones used by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In a confidential report to the Security Council, a UN panel of experts said that it had inspected photographs of missile debris and identified the weapon as a Blue Arrow air-to-surface missile that had never been used in Libya in the past, AFP reported Tuesday, citing a leaked copy of the classified report. The attack on the southern suburbs of Tripoli was carried out on April 19-20 by the so-called Libyan National Army (LNA) forces loyal to renegade strongman General Khalifa Haftar who is backed by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Washington in efforts to capture the capital city from the internationally-recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) in the divided North African nation. In a phone call to the Libyan general last month, US President Donald Trump "recognized Field Marshal Haftar's significant role in fighting terrorism and securing Libya's oil resources," according to the White House. Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Egypt have also been praising Haftar's field victories against other militia forces in the country. Meanwhile, the Blue Arrow air-to-surface missile used in the attack by LNA forces is possessed by only three countries: China which is its manufacturer Kazakhstan, and the UAE, and is paired with the Chinese-built Wing Loong drone, press reports said. "Probable use of Wing Loong UAV variants by the LNA, or by a third party in support of the LNA" is under investigation by the UN panel, said the report submitted Thursday to the Security Council. The panel said, however, that it was "almost certain" that the missiles were not directly supplied to Libya by the manufacturer or by the Chinese government. It has also contacted Chinese authorities for information that could help identify the suppliers of the weapon. The UN inspectors also pointed out that the use of the drones was "likely a recent non-compliance of the arms embargo as the weapon system reported on has not been identified in Libya before." Moreover, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres renewed on Monday his call for a ceasefire and for an end "to foreign interference to allow Libyans to be able to once again come together" and find a political solution. Since April 4, fighting between the LNA and GNA forces has killed at least 432 people, wounded 2,069, and displaced more than 50,000, according to the UN. In a message late Sunday, Haftar called on his forces to "uproot" GNA troops from "our beloved country." The attack, however, appears to have mired after GNA forces in the capital put up strong resistance. Haftar's message came just hours after the UN mission in Libya called for "an extendable one-week humanitarian truce" to mark the beginning of Ramadan. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Libya's LNA Forces Capture 'Portuguese Pilot' After Downing Jet Near Tripoli Sputnik News 13:29 07.05.2019(updated 18:16 07.05.2019) The Libyan National Army (LNA), of Khalifa Haftar, has shot down a military plane loyal to the Tripoli Government of National Accord (GNA) led by Fayez al-Sarraj, Sky News Arabia reported, referencing its own source. According to reports, the plane was shot down in the area of Al-Hir, south of Tripoli. The LNA's forces have previously destroyed GNA aircraft, as well as planes belonging to group allied to it. The pilot, a "Portuguese mercenary" flying a Mirage F1ED aircraft, has been captured by LNA forces, reports say. The incident comes a day after Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar reportedly ordered the LNA forces to chase and destroy enemy troops. On 4 April, the Libyan National Army's (LNA) launched an offensive on Tripoli, which is controlled by the UN-backed Government of National Accord (GNA). Two days later the GNA announced a counteroffensive dubbed "Volcano of Rage". More than 430 people have been killed and more than 2,000 have been injured since the beginning of the offensive on Tripoli, according to the World Health Organisation. Since the overthrow and killing of Libya's long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011 the coutry has been divided into two parts, the internationally recognised and GNA headed by Fayez Sarraj in Tripoli and a parallel administration allied to Haftar in the east of the country. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pashteen: PTM Hurt Pakistan Military's Terror-Sponsoring Industry By Hasib Danish Alikozai May 07, 2019 In response to last week's accusation by the military that Pakistan's Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) has been receiving funds from Afghanistan's and India's intelligence agencies, its leader, Manzoor Pashteen, blamed the country's most powerful institution of turning the war on terror into a lucrative business in their region. Pashteen alleged to VOA in a telephone interview from Islamabad that Pakistan's military has been trying to sow confusion among people about PTM. "These are baseless accusations that we receive funding from foreign intelligence agencies. They cannot produce a single evidence," Pashteen said. "There is an English saying that if you cannot convince them, confuse them. That's exactly what the military has been doing against us. "They [military] train militants here and then the militants carry out attacks in my country and other countries of the world. With PTM's emergence as a movement, the military can no longer operate with impunity to do that and their so-called business has been faced with difficulties," he added. Military's warning Last Monday, Major General Asif Ghafoor, director general of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) and the spokesperson for the military, accused the PTM of receiving funds from Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security (NDS) and India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), and advancing their agendas inside Pakistan. "On the PTM website, they have got a number that states the amount of funds they have collected from Pashtuns around the world. But tell us how much money did you get from the NDS [Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security] to run your campaign? How much money did RAW [India's Research and Analysis Wing] give you for the first dharna [sit-in protest] in Islamabad?" Ghafoor asked. "We want to do everything for the people [of tribal areas], but those who are playing in the hands of people, their time is up. Their time is up," Ghafoor added, implying that PTM members are serving as foreign agents. But Pashteen charges that it's the military that gets funding from foreign countries, not his movement. "They [military] want to end PTM so that they could continue nurturing militancy and then attack them here and there and receive funding for it from the international community," Pashteen said. "It was not us. It was them who have received about $33 billion from foreigners," he added. Pakistan has received more than $ 33 billion in U.S assistance since 2002 including more than $14 billion in Coalition Support Fund (CSF) which is a U.S. Defense Department program for reimbursing allies that incur costs while supporting the U.S-led counter-insurgency and counter-terror operations in the region. 'Anti-state forces' Ghafoor urged Pakistan's Pasthun population not to be provoked by what he called "anti-state forces," which he used to describe Pashteen and his movement. "Pakistan armed forces will not rest until your issues are resolved. We hope that you will not pay attention to their [PTM] rhetoric and instead stop these anti-state forces," Ghafoor said. But Pashteen maintains that he respects the country's constitution and that the military has a tendency to label anyone who fights for constitutional rights as "anti-state forces." "Whomever criticizes them [military] is anti-state. Those who demand respect to constitution are labeled as anti-state. Those who demand a republic are called traitors and anti-state," Pashteen said. "You tell me, isn't it constitutional to demand due process for missing persons? We simply say that if someone committed a crime, punish him, and if someone is innocent, release him. How is that unconstitutional?" he asked. Grievances Pashtuns, who are the largest ethnic group in Afghanistan but a minority in Pakistan, have felt neglected and targeted in Pakistan for some time. That long-simmering anger boiled over in January 2018 with the death of Naqeebullah Mehsud, a 27-year-old shopkeeper-turned-model, at police hands in Karachi. Police said at the time that Mehsud had been killed in a shootout with members of the Pakistani Taliban, but an internal inquiry cast doubt on that claim, saying Mehsud had no evident link to any militant group. The killing sparked days of protests and a weekslong march in Pashtun-dominated northwestern Pakistan. It also prompted the establishment of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, or Pashtun Protection Movement, that has since held dozens of rallies across the country demanding basic rights for ethnic Pashtuns. The movement demands an end to extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, removal of military checkpoints, and the establishment of a truth and reconciliation commission. The government says that measures have been taken to address those concerns. Pashteen, however, denies they have and vows his movement will continue to hold rallies and push the government for meeting those demands. Media blackout Pashteen has increasingly relied on social media to get his movement's message across to supporters, complaining that local Pakistani media have not covered the group's activities. He claims after he held an interview with Khyber TV a month ago, "When they wanted to air it, soldiers went in to the station and confiscated the very computer that the interview was stored in." Editors from Khyber TV deny this. "This is totally wrong and fabricated. No Pakistani soldiers ever entered our premises nor anyone forced the station not to air the interview," Hassan Khan, the group editor at the Khyber TV told VOA. The interview was not broadcast because Pakistani security officials contacted and informed "us giving media platform to anyone trying to fuel ethnic or religious troubles in the country is against the government policy," Hassan said. He said he has been added to the Exit Control List, banning him from travel abroad. Pashteen said the military has been harassing and intimidating him and his friends to get them to end the movement, but he vowed that the movement would continue to operate until their demands are met. "The military even warned us in its recent press conference. We have been nonviolent and we would continue to be nonviolent in the future. We believe in humanity and we would serve humanity. We would never harm anyone. But our movement will continue," Pashteen said. Ayaz Gul contributed to this report from Islamabad NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Energy Minister: European Oil Shipments To Resume By Mid-May By RFE/RL May 07, 2019 Russia's energy minister said that oil is expected to resume flowing through a key pipeline to Europe by the middle of May, after contaminated supplies disrupted exports. Aleksandr Novak also said on May 7 that four people had been arrested as part of an investigation into the contaminated oil, which caused major disruptions and tarnished Russia's reputation as a reliable supplier. Russian news agencies quoted Novak as saying that the government had put in place stricter measures to prevent a repeat of the problems with the Druzhba pipeline, which first emerged on April 25. "Investigations revealed a group of companies was carrying out illegal activity," Novak was quoted as saying. He said some unnamed companies were allowed to introduce into the system oil that had excess chlorine compounds. The state-owned pipeline operator Transneft has accused a small private company of being responsible. "The normalization of the situation" is expected in the first half of May, Novak said. The Druzhba pipeline crosses from Russia into Belarus and then branches off. Some oil then heads toward Poland and Germany and some toward Ukraine, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. Russian, Polish, Ukrainian, and Belarusian officials met in Minsk last month to discuss the issue. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the contamination had caused "very serious" damage to his country's reputation as an oil exporter, and to Russia's oil infrastructure. With reporting by AFP and TASS Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russian-energy -minister-european-oil-shipments-to- resume-by-mid-may/29927083.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Militant rocket attack on Russian airbase in Syria's Latakia thwarted Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 10:19PM The Russian Defense Ministry's Center for Syrian Reconciliation says its surface-to-air missile systems have managed to foil an attack by foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants against the country's strategic Hmeimim airbase in Syria's western coastal province of Latakia. The center announced in a statement on Tuesday that militants positioned in the de-escalation zone of Syria's northwestern province of Idlib launched 27 rockets at the military facility on May 6, but none of the projectiles truck the site as Pantsir-S1 and TOR-M1 systems intercepted and shown them down. The development came less than a week after foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants, who hold positions near the towns of Qalaat al-Madiq and Bab al-Atika, sought to shell Hmeimim airbase. Major General Viktor Kupchishin, the head of the Russian Defense Ministry's Center for Syrian Reconciliation, said on May 3 that militants had attempted to shell the base the previous day, but their attempt was repelled. "No Russian servicemen were injured, and no damage was done to the facility," Kupchishin pointed out. Russia has been helping Syrian forces in ongoing battles across the conflict-plagued Arab country. The Russian military assistance, which began in September 2015 at the official request of the Syrian government, has proved effective as Syrians continue to recapture key areas from Daesh and other foreign-backed terrorist groups across the country with the backing of Russian air cover. Syrian troops recapture two villages in northern Hama Meanwhile, Syrian government have wrested control over two villages in the northern countryside of the western-central province of Hama as they are engaged in an operation to flush Takfiri terrorists from the area. The Arabic-language and pro-government al-Watan newspaper reported on Tuesday that Syrian army troops had captured the villages of al-Janabara and Tel Othman. 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 that are wreaking havoc in the country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Military Shoots Down 27 Rockets During Attack on Hmeymim - MoD Sputnik News 17:02 07.05.2019(updated 17:43 07.05.2019) On Monday, militants attacked the Hmeymim airbase in Syria twice using multiple launch rocket systems, chief of the Russian Reconciliation Centre Viktor Kupchishin stated. Pantsir and Tor missile systems shot down all 27 rockets during a terrorist attack on the Hmeymim base, the Russian Reconciliation Centre for Syria reported, adding that no missile fell on the territory of the base. At the same time, militants attacked the city of Jableh, with nine missiles exploding in the city and surrounding areas, the Russian Reconciliation Centre for Syria said in a statement. The statement comes a day after militants shelled the Hmeimim air base in Syria twice, using multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS); however, the attacks resulted in no deaths or destruction. The situation at the Hmeymim airbase in Syria has worsened recently, with militants constantly attempting to attack the base. In April, terrorists carried out 12 attacks on the base, although they were all repelled, according to the Russian Reconciliation Centre. The Russian military has been deployed in Syria since 2015 to assist the internationally recognised government in its fight against terrorism and various opposition factions. The Russian forces have been carrying out airstrikes against terrorist targets and providing humanitarian support to the affected regions. Additionally, Moscow is actively engaged in the settlement process within the Astana and Geneva formats. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Escalation in Syria fighting cause for 'great concern' says UN chief, dozens more civilians dead or injured 7 May 2019 - UN chief Antonio Guterres has said that he's following "with great concern" intensifying clashes in north-western Syria that have claimed yet more civilian lives and displaced thousands in recent days. The Secretary-General's comments come amid reports of aerial attacks on population centres and civilian buildings within a demilitarized zone that has been guaranteed since last September by Russia and Turkey, in southern rural Idlib and northern rural Hama. In a statement, Mr. Guterres was said to be "alarmed" at news that hundreds of civilians had been killed and injured in intensifying fighting between Syrian Government forces supported by their allies and armed opposition forces including ISIL terrorist group-affiliate, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. Uphold international law and protect civilians, Guterres tells warring sides And in a call for all parties to uphold international humanitarian law and protect civilians as the holy month of Ramadan begins, he noted that three health facilities were reportedly hit by airstrikes on 5 May, "bringing the total to at least seven struck since 28 April". Echoing his concern, the UN human rights office (OHCHR) in Geneva said that nine schools have also reportedly been hit since 30 April. "According to information gathered by our office, at least 27 civilians have been killed and 31 injured since 29th of April, although there are other estimates out there which are much higher," OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said. "These are just the numbers that we have been able to fully verify, and this includes many women and children." Civilians increasingly at risk, warns UN human rights office Noting that "at least 11 hospitals or medical facilities have been hit by airstrikes and ground-based strikes in northern Hama and southern Idlib" in recent days, Ms. Shamdasani warned that the situation for civilians was becoming increasingly precarious. "Yesterday, on 6 May, Government forces started to advance on the ground and captured villages from non-State armed groups in northern Hama," she said. "Additionally, non-State groups carried out counter attacks in Latakia, so the violence is very much escalating." Since September last year, at least 323,000 people have been displaced by fighting in Syria's north-west, according to UN humanitarian coordinating office, OCHA. Tens of thousands displaced, often repeatedly "The intensified military offensive has further resulted in the displacement of tens of thousands of people who are repeatedly displaced and have had to move further north towards northern and eastern rural Idlib and northern and western rural Aleppo, seeking safety," Ms. Shamdasani said. Across Syria, more than eight years after fighting began that has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, OCHA believes that 6.2 million people remain internally displaced. Their resources are increasingly depleted and more than eight in 10 individuals live below the poverty line. Staggering humanitarian needs persist outside the country too, with more than 5.6 million Syrian nationals seeking shelter abroad. For 2019, the UN and humanitarian partners are calling for $3.33 billion to provide critical life-saving and life-sustaining assistance to 11.7 million Syrians. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia-Backed Assad Forces Pummel Syria's Idlib By Jamie Dettmer May 07, 2019 Syrian and Russian warplanes have been escalating airstrikes on the last remaining rebel redoubt in northern Syria. The air raids are as much a message to Turkey as to die-hard rebels and jihadists in the province of Idlib, say analysts. Russia wants Turkey to do more to remove from the province jihadists fighters once affiliated with al-Qaida, they say. The U.N. is calling for de-escalation in northwestern Syria, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging all parties to recommit to a truce covering opposition-held parts of Idlib, western Aleppo and northern Hama. More than 2.7 million people live in the rebel redoubt, many displaced from other parts of the war-wrecked country. The Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) said at least 27 civilians have been killed and 31 injured since April 29, including women and children. Turkey, which backs moderate Syrian rebels and has been in alliance with them against the Syrian Kurds, agreed in September to disarm and remove fighters in the hardline Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham faction. That armed group, once formerly affiliated with al-Qaida, has been expanding its control over parts of Idlib. Activists say 43 combatants and five civilians were killed on Monday alone in the stepped up airstrikes that reportedly have included dropping barrel and incendiary bombs on residential areas. U.N. officials say the use of barrel bombs in the last few days is the worst they've seen by the Syrian army in the 15 months since an agreed to cease-fire for Idlib, which shares a 130-kilometer border with Turkey. Two medical facilities were also reportedly damaged Monday, bringing to 12 the number of medical clinics bombed since April 28. Relief workers say the bombings occurred despite their coordinates having been shared with the warring parties through a U.N. deconfliction mechanism. Aerial attacks have targeted the city of Jisr al-Shughour and the al-Ghab plain, as well as the towns of al-Latamenah and Maarat al-Numan in the south of Idlib province, rebels say. A 15-kilometer demilitarized buffer zone was established along the front lines separating the opposition and forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad last September in a deal between the leaders of Russia and Turkey. The move shelved a threatened all-out assault by the Russia-backed Assad government on Syria's last rebel stronghold. Under the terms of the deal, all "radical fighters" would withdraw and all opposition factions would remove heavy weaponry from the zone. By the end of 2018, transportation routes between Syria's port of Latakia with Aleppo and Hama were meant to have been restored. Rebel leaders say the military objective of the intensified airstrikes appears to be aimed at seizing control of highways M5 and M4. But they are warning also the air blitz may herald the start of a final government offensive on the rebel enclave, much as intense bombing did in 2016 before a successful government assault on Aleppo. "An offensive will happen sooner rather than later. It's just difficult to say how soon," according to Ahmad Rahal, a former rebel commander. On Monday, government troops and allied Iran-backed militiamen captured a string of opposition-held villages in northern Hama. Rebel factions carried out counter-attacks in neighboring Latakia province and launched some weaponized drone attacks on the Russian airbase at Hmeimim. Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War say the government forces appear to be setting the conditions for only a limited ground attack mainly focused on the southern Idlib and northern Hama countryside. Armored units have been deployed, according to Syrian government news reports. Russian President Vladimir Putin has said it is unlikely that a full-scale assault on Syria's Idlib province will be mounted, dismissing it as impractical for now, although he has not ruled it out entirely. The political aim of the intensified airstrikes appears aimed at putting pressure on Turkey to fulfill its side of the demilitarized zone deal. Whatever the objectives, the human cost is mounting. U.N. agencies such as the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights estimate that tens of thousands are fleeing and relief workers are warning of an "apocalyptic" humanitarian disaster. OHCHR spokeswoman Ravina Shamdasani said, "We call on all parties to the conflict to respect the international humanitarian law principles of distinction, precaution and proportionality and to ensure the full protection of civilian objects." "This blatant aggression has forced well over 300,000 people out of their homes and did not stop even on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan," rebel leaders say. In a statement issued Tuesday, the Syrian Coalition, the main umbrella opposition group, said, "The fierce Russian airstrikes and the regime's heavy artillery shelling are directly targeting residential areas." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey's election board orders rerun of Istanbul mayoral vote, angers opposition Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 05:31AM Turkey's top election body has scrapped the result of Istanbul's mayoral vote and called for a rerun in response to an appeal filed by the ruling party, sparking outrage from the opposition that narrowly won the post. The Supreme Election Council (YSK) ruled on Monday seven to four in favor of the appeal by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). It also ordered that a fresh contest must be held in Turkey's second-largest city on June 23. Recep Ozel, the AKP's YSK representative, said the decision was based on unsigned results documents from the March 31 vote and the fact that some ballot box officials were not civil servants. "With this decision, our demand for re-election has been vindicated," he said. Erdogan backs election rerun order The Turkish president on Tuesday welcomed the order to rerun the Istanbul election as the "best step" for the country. Speaking at a meeting with his party members in the Turkish parliament, he noted that the Istanbul vote was marred by "organized corruption and irregularities." "We see this decision as the best step that will strengthen our will to solve problems within the framework of democracy and law," the Turkish president said. He further stressed that if his government did not bring to account the "thieves" who stole the "national will" at the ballot box, "our people will demand an explanation from us." Opposition pledges to fight on However, the winner of the Istanbul mayoral election, Ekrem Imamoglu of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), denounced the YSK's decision as "treacherous" and vowed to fight on. "They are trying to take back the election we won. Maybe you are upset but never lose your hope," he told thousands of his supporters in central Istanbul following Monday's ruling. Meanwhile, the CHP announced that it was holding an emergency meeting after the election body's announcement. "This system that overrules the will of the people and disregards the law is neither democratic, nor legitimate," tweeted CHP deputy chair Onursal Adiguzel. "Going to the polls against the AKP is allowed, but winning is forbidden...This is downright dictatorship," he added. The CHP's assembly also decided on Tuesday that the opposition group would not boycott the June 23 vote rerun. Municipal elections took place across Turkey on March 31. They marked the first ballot box test for Erdogan since he was re-elected last year under a new system of government, which gives sweeping powers to the president. Although the AKP succeeded in securing over 51 percent of the vote nationally, it lost the race in Ankara, Izmir and Istanbul Erdogan's home city where he had once served as mayor. Imamoglu won the Istanbul election by just 13,000 votes over AKP candidate and former prime minister, Binali Yildirim, but he was confirmed mayor in April after two weeks of recounts. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Stoltenberg 'Concerned' About Turkish Plans To Buy Russian Missile System By RFE/RL May 07, 2019 NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has expressed concern about the potential consequences of Turkey's plans to purchase Russian air-defense missile systems. Stoltenberg was speaking on May 6 during a joint press conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara, amid a widening rift between Washington and Ankara over Turkey's deal to buy S-400 surface-to-air missile systems. The United States has demanded that NATO ally Turkey call off its deal with Russia, saying that the S-400 missiles are incompatible with NATO systems and are seen as a threat to U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets. Washington has said it could also withdraw an offer to sell Ankara the U.S. equivalent -- the Patriot anti-missile system and warned that Turkey risks being ejected from the F-35 fighter-jet program. Turkey is a member of the consortium involved in the production of the jet and a buyer. In Ankara, Stoltenberg said that every NATO ally makes its own decisions on the kind of military equipment it buys. "But at same time I am concerned about the potential consequences as the United States has made it clear that they will impose sanctions" if Turkey goes through with the deal, the NATO chief added. "What is important for NATO is interoperability -- that systems can work together," he said. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has repeatedly said that his country won't withdraw from the S-400 deal, which according to Russian media involved four S-400 units for a price of $2.5 billion. Speaking alongside Stoltenberg on May 6, Erdogan said that he disapproved of attempts to provoke debate on issues like the S-400 that "are within the sovereign rights of our country." Turkey's developing ties "with other countries and regions are not an alternative to each other," he said, adding that instead they complemented each other. Turkey's relations with Russia have historically been tense, but Moscow and Ankara have established strong economic ties since the end of the Cold War. Under Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the countries have moved closer in recent years amid severe tension between Russia and the West and strains in Turkey's ties with the United States and European Union. With reporting by dpa and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/nato-concerned- about-turkish-plans-to-buy-russian- missile-systems/29925471.html Copyright (c) 2019. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK has to fight EU parliament elections despite Brexit talks: Government Iran Press TV Tue May 7, 2019 03:32PM A senior minister of the British government has said that the country has no option but to hold the European Parliament elections as talks with the opposition on reaching a deal to withdraw from the European Union would not reach a conclusion before end of this month. David Lidington, who serves as minister for the Cabinet Office in Prime Minister Theresa May's government, said on Tuesday that there was no immediate prospect of a Brexit deal being finalized between May's conservatives and the opposition Labour Party before May 23, the date set for the EU parliamentary election. "It is regrettably not going to be possible to finish that process before the date that is legally due for the European parliamentary elections ... So those will now go ahead," said Lidington, who is widely seen as May's de facto deputy. The cabinet member said, however, that May and her government would do their best to reach a Brexit deal as soon as possible after the elections, so that Britain will not need to be effectively represented in the European Parliament. "We will be redoubling our efforts ... to try to make sure that the delay after that is as short as possible. Ideally we would like to be in a situation where those MEPs from the UK never actually take their seats in the European parliament, certainly to get this done and dusted by the summer recess," he said. The remarks come amid some intensive talks between the two mainstream political parties in the UK on how to overcome a parliamentary impasse on Brexit. May has already suffered three defeats on the Brexit deal she signed with the EU in November. Those defeats caused the EU to grant the UK a long extension to divorce negotiations until the end of October. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK Royal Navy Reconnaissance Ship Arrives at Port in Black Sea Region Sputnik News 10:52 07.05.2019 The HMS Echo entered the Black Sea last month in order to participate in a freedom of navigation manoeuvre, according to the UK's authorities. In April, NATO conducted training in the region despite Russian warnings that the alliance's activities in the area heighten security risks there. The British Royal Navy's HMS Echo (H87) reconnaissance ship has arrived in Odessa on the Black Sea, the Ukrainian news agency Unian reports. The vessel will stay there for three days. Joint drills with the Ukrainian Navy are expected to take place in the Black Sea. The ship, equipped with two Oerlikon 20 mm cannons and tree mini-guns, can provide almost real-time tailored environmental information. Before visiting Odessa, the ship reportedly sailed to the Romanian seaport of Constanta and the Georgian city Batumi on the Black Sea. HMS Echo, bound to leave the region on 10 May, entered the Black Sea on 20 April. According to the British authorities, the ship has been deployed to the region in order to participate in a freedom of navigation manoeuvre. In April, NATO countries conducted military drills in the Black Sea. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko warned that increased NATO activities in the area heighten risks to security in the region, while the Russian Navy carried out its own exercise in response. Notably, the HMS Echo reconnaissance ship is reported to have been the alliance's first warship to arrive in the Black Sea in December 2018 in the wake of the Kerch Strait incident. On 25 November, Ukraine's Berdyansk and Nikopol gunboats and the Yany Kapu tugboat illegally crossed the Russian maritime border as they sailed toward the Kerch Strait, the entrance to the Sea of Azov. Russia seized the Ukrainian vessels and detained 24 people on board after they failed to respond to demands to stop. After the incident, a criminal case on illegal border crossing was opened in Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin called the incident a provocation. Following the incident, martial law was announced in Ukraine and lasted for a month. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Data Recently Presented at the 2019 American Academy of Neurologys Annual Meeting APPRISE Clinical Study Continues Enrollment at 10 Movement Disorder Clinics in the U.S. PORTSMOUTH, N.H. and LONDON and MELBOURNE, Australia, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global Kinetics today reported data that was recently presented at poster presentation sessions during the 2019 American Academy of Neurologys (AAN) Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, PA, May 4 10, 2019 and the 2019 Parkinson Study Group (PSG) in Phoenix, AZ, April 5 8, 2019. The two posters highlighted how the Companys Personal KinetiGraph (PKG) technology provided clinically meaningful improvements in Parkinsons disease (PD) symptom assessment, management and medication optimization, and also enhanced patient-clinician conversations. PKG is a first-of-its-kind, wearable, FDA-cleared and CE-marked technology that provides clinicians with a passive, continuous, objective, ambulatory assessment of the treatable and disabling symptoms of PD, including bradykinesia, dyskinesia, and tremor. To date, more than 40,000 patient PKG reports have been recorded, enabling more than 200 Parkinsons specialist clinics around the world to further tailor therapy and improve management for their PD patients. The poster presented at AAN, Objective Data in Parkinsons Disease: A Description of Over 27,000 Parkinsons Symptom Scores Across the World Using the Personal KinetiGraph (PKG), reported data from study in 27,834 de-identified PKG reports worldwide from 2012 2018. Researchers found that a meaningful proportion of patients had suboptimal PD motor symptoms management at baseline, with 54% having uncontrolled but likely treatable bradykinesia and 10% showing uncontrolled, likely treatable dyskinesia. For a sub-set of those with multiple PKG use, the subsequent PKG use showed a significant improvement in PKG scores indicating more controlled motor symptoms, demonstrating that the objective measurement data provided by the technology can be used to enhance clinical decision making to improve motor symptom management. A second poster, presented in April at the 2019 Parkinson Study Group (PSG), and titled, An Observational Study of PKG Movement Recording System Use in Routine Clinical Care of Patients with Parkinsons Disease, highlighted the results of a study conducted at the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) and University of California-Irvine. A combined 63 patients with PD were assessed every three months and wore a PKG for six continuous days prior to a visit. Physicians found that the PKG enabled improved dialogue with patients in 59% of visits, and improved the ability to assess treatment impact and patient symptoms in 38% and 33% of visits, respectively. In addition, 53% of patients stated they agreed or strongly agreed in PKG training, usability, performance and satisfaction, while 40% of patients felt that PKG had a very valuable impact on their care. The PKG reports were used to make 74 treatment plan changes in 79% of patients across 84% of visits. Most common treatment changes included the addition of at least one medication or changed dosage and timing of medications. John Schellhorn, CEO of Global Kinetics Corporation, said, At Global Kinetics, we are committed to serving the Parkinsons disease community and providing access to our PKG, which can provide objective measurement in the clinical care setting and help optimize care in this neurodegenerative disease. These presentations underscore the value of PKG in providing valuable information about Parkinsons movement symptoms and allowing neurologists and movement disorder specialists to have more meaningful conversations with their patients, which translates to optimized care. Global Kinetics is also currently enrolling patients in APPRISE, a prospective, multi-center, randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the use of PKG plus medical history versus standard of care in the assessment of people diagnosed with PD. The aim of the study is to demonstrate that the use of objective measurement and monitoring with PKG positively influences treatment decisions by clinicians and ultimately impacts changes in patient outcomes measured by common PD assessments, including the Movement Disorder Specialist Unified PD Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS), which is conducted during patient-clinician visits, and the PD Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39), which is self-reported by patients. APPRISE is ongoing at 10 U.S. Movement Disorder clinics and is designed to enroll up to 430 patients. For additional information about the trial, please visit: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03741920 . Stuart H. Isaacson, M.D., Director of the Parkinsons Disease and Movement Disorders Center of Boca Raton in Florida, and an investigator in the APPRISE study, commented, Our team is excited to be a part of this post-marketing study, which will contribute to the growing body of data supporting the value of continuous objective monitoring in the management of patients with Parkinsons disease. Use of the PKG in our clinic has enhanced conversations with our patients and our ability to determine when treatment plans should be adjusted to provide more optimal care. About Global Kinetics Pty Ltd. Global Kinetics Pty Ltd. is committed to improving the lives of those with Parkinsons disease with advanced medical technologies. The company was formed in 2007 to commercialize its lead product, the Personal KinetiGraph (PKG). The PKG enables the precise monitoring, quantification, and reporting of movement symptoms in Parkinsons. To date, Global Kinetics has supported clinical decisions for doctors who have obtained more than 40,000 PKG reports for Parkinsons disease, generating more than 6,000,000 hours of clinical data from our FDA-cleared, CE-marked PKG wearable device. Global Kinetics, a privately held company, is headquartered in Melbourne, Australia with offices in London, UK, Minneapolis, MN, and Portsmouth, NH, USA. For more information, visit: www.globalkineticscorporation.com Follow our LinkedIn updates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/globalkineticscorp Media Contact Lazar Partners Chantal Beaudry / Amy Feldman +1 (646) 871-8480 / +1 (212) 867-1779 GKC@lazarpartners.com SAN FRANCISCO, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FinovateSpring via NetworkWire Horizn, the #1 Digital Adoption Platform designed exclusively for banks and financial service institutions, today announces the launch of a new suite of Digital Ambassador Tools at the FinovateSpring conference in San Francisco. Horizns Digital Ambassador Tools are designed to identify, engage and scale digital ambassador programs to support innovation, transformation and digital adoption with employees, customers and the community. As the branch of the future evolves with digitalization, frontline employees need to be equipped to expertly help customers with new digital products. Digital Ambassadors play a critical role in driving the awareness and use of digital technology in-branch and within the call center, explained Janice Diner, Horizns Founder and CEO. The Horizn Digital Ambassador Tools help track desired digital ambassador behaviors like peer training, continuous learning, customer demos and shares. Engagement tools for ambassadors include activities like polls, chat, awarding ad-hoc points and running a digital team huddle. The Digital Ambassador Tools are a perfect addition to the award-winning Horizn suite of products, the Employee Platform, the Customer Direct Platform and the In-Branch Digital Demos currently in market with banks globally. Horizn makes it easy for financial institutions to harness the complexities of digital adoption and improve the customer experience. The Digital Ambassador Tools can now help banks fully digitize their ambassador programs. Through the management dashboard, all Digital Ambassador activities and digital points are tracked. Ambassadors can, for example, incentivize branch peer learning activities like demos, reward digital conversations with customers, as well as send email messages to colleagues when each new innovation launches. For more information, visit www.horizn.com. About Horizn Horizn helps financial institutions get ready for the digital customer in an environment where digital transformation and rapid launch of innovation are the norm. The award-winning Horizn platform focuses on directly equipping both frontline employees and customers with the knowledge needed to improve the customer experience and dramatically increase digital adoption across all channels. The Horizn suite of products helps banks distribute product knowledge across multiple touch points, with employees, with customers in-branch, via call centers, directly to customers on banks website, with SEO, in chatbots, and with other marketing activities. Horizn proprietary learning technology combines a simulator micro-learning methodology with both gamified principles and advanced analytics. Contact Details Janice Diner CEO Horizn janice@horizn.com (416) 460-9444 Twitter: @horiznplatform French English MONTREAL, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Knight Therapeutics Inc. (TSX:GUD) ("Knight" or the "Corporation"), a Canadian specialty pharmaceutical company, announced today the voting results from the Annual Meeting of the Shareholders ("Meeting") held in Montreal, Quebec. Election of Directors Shareholders have voted in favour of all of managements recommended director nominees listed in the Management Information Circular dated April 4, 2019 (the Circular), with the exception of activist nominee Meir Jakobsohn, who was on managements slate pursuant to a contractual right to be nominated. The Board of Directors is now comprised of: James C. Gale, Jonathan Ross Goodman, Nancy Harrison, Robert N. Lande, Samira Sakhia, Sylvie Tendler, Michael J. Tremblay, and Kevin Cameron. As part of its campaign, and in addition to Knights obligation to include Mr. Jakobsohn on its list of nominees, Medison had put forward five additional nominees. However, minutes before the meeting, Medison withdrew the consent of Mr. Jakobsohn and four other individuals to serve as directors. The effect of this is that the votes for these individuals need not be public under applicable law. As a result, only Kevin Cameron was eligible for election and thereby filled the eighth board seat vacated by Mr. Jakobsohn. Commenting on the results, CEO Jonathan Ross Goodman issued the following statement: On behalf of our entire board, we want to thank shareholders for their resounding support and clear endorsement of managements disciplined investment strategy of acquiring and in-licensing a diversified portfolio of specialty pharma products for Canada and rest-of-world markets. We are grateful for the support of our shareholders in helping to put this unnecessary episode, this Knight-Meir, behind us. We remain committed to our mission to make people better through the pharmaceuticals we offer and to create shareholder value in the process. Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting voted for the directors as follows: DIRECTOR NOMINEE VOTES FOR James C. Gale 93,116,393 Jonathan Ross Goodman 100,000,815 Nancy Harrison 99,568,057 Robert N. Lande 91,414,934 Samira Sakhia 84,766,572 Sylvie Tendler 100,814,712 Michael J. Tremblay 101,062,013 Kevin Cameron 16,670,301 Appointment of External Auditors Ernst & Young LLP were appointed as external auditors of the Corporation for the next year by a majority of the votes cast by the shareholders present or represented by proxy, and the directors were authorized to determine their remuneration. Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting voted as follows: OUTCOME VOTES FOR % FOR VOTES WITHHELD % WITTHELD Appointed 82,569,347 97.81% 1,851,121 2.19% Ratification of the Corporations Advance Notice By-Law The resolution to ratify Knights Advance Notice By-Law, as more particularly described in the Circular, was approved by a majority of the votes cast by the shareholders present or represented by proxy. Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting voted as follows: VOTES FOR % FOR VOTES AGAINST % AGAINST 83,773,395 99.23% 647,073 0.77% Approval of Unallocated Rights Under the Corporations Employee Share Purchase Plan The resolution to approve unallocated rights under the Corporations employee share purchase plan for the ensuing three years, as described in the Circular, was approved by a majority of the votes cast by the shareholders present or represented by proxy. Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting voted as follows: VOTES FOR % FOR VOTES AGAINST % AGAINST 65,070,944 77.08% 19,348,524 22.92% Rejection of Dissident Shareholder Proposal to Adopt By-Law No. 3 The resolution to approve a new By-Law No. 3, which amends By-Law No. 1, was rejected by a majority of the votes cast by the shareholders present or represented by proxy. Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting voted as follows: VOTES FOR % FOR VOTES AGAINST % AGAINST 26,646,710 22.57% 91,395,178 77.43% The results of the final votes regarding all matters subject to a vote during the Meeting will also be made available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). Advisors Knight has retained Kingsdale Advisors as its strategic shareholder and communications advisor, Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP as its legal advisor, and RBC Capital Markets as its financial advisor. About Knight Therapeutics Inc. Knight Therapeutics Inc., headquartered in Montreal, Canada, is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on acquiring or in-licensing and commercializing innovative pharmaceutical products for the Canadian and select international markets. Knight Therapeutics Inc.s shares trade on TSX under the symbol GUD. For more information about Knight Therapeutics Inc., please visit the companys web site at www.gud-knight.com or www.sedar.com . Forward-Looking Statement This document contains forward-looking statements for Knight Therapeutics Inc. and its subsidiaries. These forward-looking statements, by their nature, necessarily involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Knight Therapeutics Inc. considers the assumptions on which these forward-looking statements are based to be reasonable at the time they were prepared, but cautions the reader that these assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of Knight Therapeutics Inc. and its subsidiaries, may ultimately prove to be incorrect. Factors and risks, which could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations are discussed in Knight Therapeutics Inc.'s Annual Report and in Knight Therapeutics Inc.'s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2018. Knight Therapeutics Inc. disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information or future events, except as required by law. CONTACT INFORMATION: Investor Contact: Knight Therapeutics Inc. Samira Sakhia President & Chief Financial Officer T: 514-678-8930 F: 514-481-4116 info@gudknight.com www.gud-knight.com Media Contact: Kingsdale Advisors Ian Robertson Executive Vice President, Communication Strategy Direct: 416-867-2333 Cell: 647-621-2646 irobertson@kingsdaleadvisors.com VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ero Copper Corp. (the Company) (TSX: ERO) reported the voting results from its annual general meeting of shareholders held today in Vancouver, British Columbia. A total of 70,722,788 common shares were represented at the meeting, being 83.26% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company. Shareholders voted in favour of all items of business before the meeting, including the re-election of managements nominees as directors for the ensuing year. Election of Directors On a vote by a show of hands, each of the seven nominees in the Circular were re-elected as directors of the Corporation for the ensuing year, and the outcome of the valid proxies received was as follows: Number of Common Shares Voted Percentage of Votes Cost Director Nominees For Withheld For Withheld Christopher Noel Dunn 61,971,407 753,118 98.80 1.20 David Strang 62,724,525 0 100 0 Lyle Braaten 47,653,011 15,071,514 75.97 24.03 Steven Busby 50,779,735 11,944,790 80.96 19.04 Robert Getz 62,652,237 72,288 99.88 0.12 John Wright 62,707,761 16,764 99.97 0.03 Matthew Wubs 62,687,214 37,311 99.94 0.06 The resolution to reappoint KPMG LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as the auditor of the Company for the ensuing year, and authorize the directors to fix the remuneration to be paid to the auditor was approved by 100.0% of the votes cast for the resolution. Each item of business voted upon at the meeting is described in detail in the Company's Management Information Circular dated March 14, 2019, which is available on the Company's website ( www.erocopper.com ) and on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com ). ABOUT ERO COPPER CORP Ero Copper Corp., headquartered in Vancouver, B.C., is focused on copper production growth from the Vale do Curaca Property, located in Bahia, Brazil. The Companys primary asset is a 99.6% interest in the Brazilian copper mining company, Mineracao Caraiba (MCSA), 100% owner of the Vale do Curaca Property with over 39 years of operating history in the region. The Company currently mines copper ore from the Pilar underground mine, the R22W open pit mine and its newly constructed Vermelhos underground mine. In addition to the Vale do Curaca Property, MCSA owns 100% of the Boa Esperana development project, an IOCG-type copper project located in Para, Brazil and the Company, directly and indirectly, owns 97.6% of the NX Gold Mine, an operating gold and silver mine located in Mato Grosso, Brazil. Additional information on the Company and its operations, including Technical Reports on the Vale do Curaca, Boa Esperana and NX Gold properties, can be found on the Companys website (www.erocopper.com) and on SEDAR (www.sedar.com). Signed: David Strang For further information contact: David Strang, President & CEO Makko DeFilippo, Vice President, Corporate Development (604) 429-9244 info@erocopper.com Dutch English Regulated Information Nyrstar: Phase 2 Effective Date: Lock-Up Agreement fully effective, overwhelming support of creditors 8 May 2019 at 07:00 CEST Introduction On 15 April 2019, Nyrstar NV (Nyrstar or the Company, and, together with its subsidiaries, the Group) announced (the 15 April Announcement) that it had entered into a lock-up agreement for the recapitalisation of the Group with representatives of its key financial creditor groups (the Lock-Up Agreement). For further details of the terms of the recapitalisation, please refer to the 15 April Announcement. All capitalised terms in this announcement shall have the meanings given to them in the 15 April Announcement unless otherwise defined. Phase 2 Effective Date achieved Nyrstar is pleased to announce that it has received the requisite support from all the relevant financial creditor groups under the Lock-Up Agreement and the Phase 2 Effective Date has now occurred. Therefore, the Lock-Up Agreement is now fully effective. At the date of this announcement, formal consents to the Lock-Up Agreement have been received from: Over 92% of aggregate outstanding principal amount under the 2019 Notes Over 93% of aggregate outstanding principal amount under the 2024 Notes (together over 91% of the aggregate outstanding principal amount under the 2019 Notes and the 2024 Notes) Over 97% of aggregate outstanding principal amount under the Convertible Bonds (together with the 2019 Notes and the 2024 Notes, the Notes and the Noteholders). In addition: Over 90% of the lenders and a majority in number under the 600m Revolving Structured Commodity Trade Finance (SCTF) have formally consented to the Lock-Up Agreement. 100% of lenders under the Groups Unsecured Facilities (bilateral and prepayment facilities) have now also acceded to the Lock-Up Agreement, save for in connection with the Politus Prepayment where over 80% of the lenders to Politus B.V. and a majority in number have now acceded to the Lock-Up Agreement. 2019/2024 Notes Consent Solicitations update On 15 April 2019 and separate to the Lock-Up Agreement accession process, Nyrstar commenced consent solicitations for the 2019 Notes and the 2024 Notes to request, among other things, a temporary waiver of any defaults or events of default arising as a result of Nyrstars failure to pay the March 2019 coupon under the 2019 Notes and the 2024 Notes (the 15 April Consent Solicitation), which required a 90% consent level for each of those Notes. The 15 April Consent Solicitation deadline was 11.59pm (London time) on 7 May 2019 and such deadline has passed without the level being met. Convertible Bonds meeting on 21 May 2019 Holders of the Convertible Bonds are reminded that, as announced by the Company on 6 May 2019, a general meeting of Convertible Bondholders will be held on 21 May 2019. For further details on this meeting, please refer to the Companys announcement of 6 May 2019 and the notice convening this meeting, which has been published on the Nyrstar website https://www.nyrstar.com/en/investors/share-and-bondholder-information/bondholder-information and on Lucids website, as detailed below. Conclusion Nyrstar continues to encourage all remaining relevant creditors to accede to the Lock-Up Agreement and will provide further updates as appropriate in due course. Nyrstar thanks its stakeholders for their on-going support in relation to its Capital Structure Review. Lucid contact details regarding the Lock-Up Agreement and the Consent Solicitation A copy of the Lock-Up Agreement and additional details about acceding to the Lock-Up Agreement and voting on the Consent Solicitation can be obtained from Lucid: Sunjeeve Patel / Victor Parzyjagla Website: www.lucid-is.com/nyrstar Telephone: + 44 20 7704 0880 Email: nyrstar@lucid-is.com About Nyrstar Nyrstar is a global multi-metals business, with a market leading position in zinc and lead, and growing positions in other base and precious metals, which are essential resources that are fuelling the rapid urbanisation and industrialisation of our changing world. Nyrstar has mining, smelting and other operations located in Europe, the Americas and Australia and employs approximately 4,100 people. Nyrstar is incorporated in Belgium and has its corporate office in Switzerland. Nyrstar is listed on Euronext Brussels under the symbol NYR. For further information please visit the Nyrstar website: www.nyrstar.com. For further information contact: Anthony Simms Head of Investor Relations T: +41 44 745 8157 M: +41 79 722 2152 anthony.simms@nyrstar.com Franziska Morroni Head of Communications T: +41 44 745 8295 M: +41 79 719 2342 franziska.morroni@nyrstar.com Attachment Finnish English EFECTE PLC -- COMPANY ANNOUNCEMENT -- 8 MAY 2019 at 13.00 Efecte Plc's Business review on 1-3/2019 - SaaS grew by 25% SaaS grew by 25% and international SaaS by 42% Total net sales grew by 20% to 3.5 Million euro SaaS was 48% and services 39% of total net sales EBITDA was -0.4 Million euro and operating profit -0.5 Million euro Operating profit percentage improved from -22% to -15% Group key figures MEUR 1-3/2019 1-3/2018 2018 Net sales 3.5 2.9 12.2 EBITDA -0.4 -0.5 -2.0 Operating profit -0.5 -0.6 -2.4 SaaS MRR (1000 eur) 569 460 523 CEO Niilo Fredrikson reviews the period 1-3/2019: In 1-3/2019 Efecte's net sales grew by 20% to 3.5 MEUR (2.9 MEUR in 1-3/2018). Our current main businesses grew more rapidly: net sales of SaaS grew by 25% and services by 24%. Net sales of the non-core traditional business (perpetual licenses and related maintenance) was slightly below last year. The solid 25% growth of our SaaS business was based on good performance in Finland and especially in Germany. Thanks to Germany, international SaaS business grew by 42%. Also services grew by 24%, but that growth was boosted by a weak comparison period last year. According to our strategy we are focusing on growing our SaaS business, and services will be grown as necessary to support the SaaS business. Business in Finland developed steadily. Net sales in Germany grew significantly, as the revenue impact from new orders in late 2018 started to materialize. Growth in Sweden did not match our expectations. A good performance in Germany contributed to the growth of both SaaS and services. We have continued active marketing and sales efforts in Germany, and in addition to customers also local analysts are starting to recognize Efecte as a credible service management solution supplier. The forward-looking growth investments have decreased profitability in the review period as anticipated, but profitability clearly improved compared to last year: EBIT percentage improved from -22% to -15%. The number of employees was 104 persons at the end of the reporting period (102). 83 employees were based in Finland (76), 12 in Germany (11), 9 in Sweden (12) and 0 in Denmark (3). The average number of employees during the period was 103 (101). The company did not have interest-bearing financial debt at the end of the period. The company's cash and liquid assets were 5.7 MEUR (3/2018: 6.0 MEUR). Long-term financial targets Efecte aims for over 20% annual organic growth of SaaS net sales on average in 2019 - 2022. Substantial investments in international growth and product development will decrease operating profit in the next few years, but the company aims for a double-digit operating profit percentage by the end of the strategy period. Guidance for the year 2019 In 2019 SaaS net sales is expected to grow by over 20% and profitability to improve from the comparison period. Next earnings release Efecte will publish the half-yearly report 1-6/2019 on 21 August 2019. Additional information: CEO Niilo Fredrikson, + 358 50 356 7177 Certified adviser: Evli Bank Oyj, tel. +358 40 579 6210 LOS ANGELES, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Writer For Hire Pat Kramer today announced that she was recently awarded Woman of the Year 2019, Sunland Tujunga by Congressman Adam Schiff. Each year, Congressman Schiff names women in each of the communities in his district, to receive this lauded award in honor of Women's History Month. Now serving as the chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Representative Schiff is in his 10th term in the House of Representatives. Kramer, who operates Writer For Hire in Los Angeles, is a ghostwriter, memoir writer, and a content marketing and PR branding specialist. At a luncheon held on April 16, 2019, Representative Schiff honored each of the 13 inspiring women he chose stating, Today, I met with remarkable women from my district who have all worked tirelessly to make our communities a better place, said Rep. Schiff. It was an honor to recognize their outstanding work in the 28th District. These women have worked to found or support a myriad of charitable organizations and given so much of themselves to improve the common good. They are all pillars of our communities and I thank them for their invaluable service. In his tribute to Ms. Kramer, the Congressman talked about her contributions to her community of Sunland Tujunga, located in the northeast corner of Los Angeles, saying, I rise today in honor of Womens History Month. Each year, we pay special tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by our nations women. It is an honor to pay homage to outstanding women who are making a difference in my Congressional District. I would like to recognize a remarkable woman, Pat Kramer of Sunland-Tujunga, California. Pat Kramer is a communications expert who creates original content for business and corporate entities for their marketing, outreach and public relations efforts. For over thirty years, she has worked as a consultant to companies and as a freelance journalist for many prestigious newspapers, magazines and industry publication. A dedicated volunteer in her community, Pats activities include over thirty years of participation in the Sierra Club, Angeles Chapter, where she has held leadership positions and advocates for issues affecting the quality of life in the foothills. Additionally, while serving two terms on the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council, Pat has led many efforts on behalf of her community. These include: completing the decade-long creation of Oro Vista Park in Sunland, leading efforts to improve the safety of residents as the chairperson of the Safe Traffic & Transportation Committee, and creating and co-chairing the STNCs Emergency Preparedness Day which included 15 vendors and City agencies. In addition to her outstanding work in the community, Ms. Kramer is passionate about animal rescue work, serving on the STNC Animal Issues committee and playing a leading role in promoting the City of L.A.s Department of Animal Services Volunteer Animal Officer program. Born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, Pat credits her grandparents, immigrants from the Ukraine and her parents with teaching her good values, instilling in her the importance of hard work, and encouraging her to follow her dreams. I ask all Members to join me in honoring this exceptional, well-respected woman of Californias 28th Congressional District, Pat Kramer." Media Contact: Pat Kramer 818 353-5699 pat@writerpatkramer.com https://www.writerpatkramer.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d0a2fbfb-c5e4-422e-b68d-5a9f964e1d8a Sheboygan, WI, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Piggly Wiggly announced today that the Healthy Savings program is accepted at all Midwest locations. Healthy Savings is a wellness program that makes it easier and more affordable to eat healthier. Customers were asking our stores if we accepted Healthy Savings, said Gary Suokko, Chief Operating Officer at Piggly Wiggly Midwest, and we felt we had to be a part of this program to meet shoppers needs and help them eat healthier. Shoppers can redeem savings at any of the 100 Piggly Wiggly locations in Wisconsin and Illinois. Piggly Wiggly Midwest joins the national Healthy Savings retail network which is scheduled to grow to over 22,000 store locations later this year. Piggly Wiggly cares about their communities and will enjoy serving a broader customer base, said Chad Kelly, Chief Marketing Officer of Solutran, the company behind Healthy Savings. The Healthy Savings program brings more shoppers to the stores that accept the card. Healthy Savings is sponsored by health plans, non-profits, government entities and individual employers across the United States. The technology behind the program is powered by the S3 Solutions Suite developed by Solutran, Inc., a Minnesota-based FinTech company. About Healthy Savings Healthy Savings is a high-engagement, national health & wellness program helping health insurers, employers, government entities and nonprofits make healthier foods more affordable. Partnering with over 14,000 brands and stores, Healthy Savings allows members to save over $50 weekly on healthier foods without having to clip, print or download coupons. Our mission is to improve the way America eats. The platform behind the Healthy Savings program is Solutrans S3 technology. Learn more at Solutran.com or TryHealthySavings.com and follow us on LinkedIn. About Piggly Wiggly Piggly Wiggly Midwest continues to build on its 100+ year history in the grocery business. Currently, the Company supplies 100 Piggly Wiggly supermarkets in the greater Wisconsin and northern Illinois areas, as well as, 14 Butera Market stores in the Chicagoland area. Piggly Wiggly Midwest operates corporate stores and services independent franchisees under a chain-style program. This program combines the strength and consistency of chain style centralized buying and merchandising with the locally tailored entrepreneurial management (skills, charm, hospitality and attention) of a community-based retailer. Attachments BANGOR, MAINE, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A ceremony recognizing the next generation of professionals who completed their masters and doctoral degree studies at Husson University will take place at the Newman Gymnasium in Bangor at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2019. Twelve-hundred people are expected to attend a ceremony celebrating the 364 graduate degrees earned by students this year. This includes 78 doctoral degrees and 286 masters degrees. Hooding ceremonies provide special recognition to students receiving advanced degrees, said Dr. Robert A. Clark, president of Husson University. Earning a hood signifies that the degree recipient is now considered a scholar. The hoods length, lining colors and binding signify the degree, field of study, and the individual school where the graduate earned his or her degree. During a hooding ceremony faculty and students are dressed in academic regalia. Faculty members place the hood over the head of the graduate to signify his or her success in completing their degree. History of Hooding:The wearing of special gowns and hoods is a practice that dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries.1 Clerical attire was the typical dress of scholars during those medieval times.2 Long gowns provided necessary warmth in unheated buildings. Hoods as head-coverings helped students and faculty members resist the cold.3 The Celts and their priests, the druids, initiated the wearing of hoods to distinguish a level of training.4 Only the druids wore mantles with attached hoods to mark their superiority within society.5Today, caps, gowns and hoods are associated with college graduation. Instead of being practical clothing, modern academic hoods consist of elongated scarves draped over an individuals shoulders with the lining turned inside out.6 Although a hood is always black in color, the lengths have significance. A graduate earning a bachelors degree receives a hood thats three feet long.7 A masters degree graduate receives a hood thats three and one-half feet in length while four-foot hoods are given to doctoral recipients.8Chesley H. Husson, Sr. AwardEach year, Husson University presents the Chesley H. Husson Sr. Award at the hooding ceremony. Chesley H. Husson Sr. was the founder of Husson College. He believed in academic integrity, hands-on education and community service. This year, the award is being presented to Professor Dewey Martin, MS, CPA, CMA, CGMA, director of the School of Accounting at Husson Universitys College of Business. "While Dewey's students always have found his courses challenging, he truly garnered their respect, as well as that of his colleagues, through his knowledge, experience and advocacy, said College of Business and New England School of Communications (NESCom) Dean Marie Hansen, JD, PhD, SHRM-SCP. His legacy will always be that he taught students how to strive to be the best in their professional and personal lives." Martin did not start out in life with aspirations to be a college professor. He began his career as a Certified Public Accountant at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Boston. During this time, his aunt, Sylvia Noyes, was a member of Hussons English faculty. She contacted him after she found out there was an opening for an accounting faculty member. Noyes thought that Martin would be an excellent addition to Hussons faculty. Martin and his wife, Linda both grew up in Maine and wanted to raise a family here, so he applied for the job at Husson and got it. He was first hired in 1980. His plan was to teach here for five years while the two of them saved up enough money to open their own accounting practice. After teaching for a few years, Martin decided that teaching was his professional calling. That was 39 years ago. Professor Martin has a bachelors degree in accounting and a masters degree in taxation. In addition, he is a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Management Accountant, and a Chartered Global Management Accountant. Besides being knowledgeable, Martin has received recognition for his many professional achievements. The Small Business Administration recognized him as the Accountant Advocate of the Year for Maine and New England. The Maine Society of CPAs presented him with their Public Service Award. The Hampden Business Association named him the Businessperson of the Year. He is also past-president of the Maine Society of CPAs and a long-term member of the National Federation of Independent Businesss Guardian Advisory Council for Maine. He once testified before the Senate Finance Committee and House Ways and Means Committee in Washington, D.C. on small business tax reform. In his 39 years at Husson, hes almost never missed a day of work. He once said, If the students are committed to being there than I am too. I feel beholden to them. Outside of his work at Husson University, Martin is the sole proprietor of a public accounting practice with numerous small business and personal clients. Throughout his career, Dewey Martin has served as an example to students, faculty, and staff through his advocacy and leadership. He has vast experience and knowledge. The length of his tenure at the University has allowed him to teach generations of families. In addition, his community connections have served to extend awareness of Husson University and the College of Business throughout the state and beyond. About Husson University:For more than 120 years, Husson University has prepared future leaders to handle the challenges of tomorrow through innovative undergraduate and graduate degrees. With a commitment to delivering affordable classroom, online and experiential learning opportunities, Husson University has come to represent superior value in higher education. Our Bangor campus and off-campus satellite education centers in Southern Maine, Wells, and Northern Maine provide advanced knowledge in business; health and education; pharmacy studies; science and humanities; as well as communication. In addition, Husson University has a robust adult learning program. According to a recent tuition and fee analysis by U.S. News & World Report, Husson University is the most affordable private college in New England. For more information about educational opportunities that can lead to personal and professional success, visit Husson.edu. # # # 1 Academic Regalia: Historical Overview of the Academic Costume Code, American Council on Education (ACE), http://www.acenet.edu/news-room/Pages/Historical-Overview-Academic-Costume-Code.aspx 2 Ibid 3 Ibid 4 Graduation Cap and Gown History, https://www.graduationsource.com/blog/graduation-cap-and-gown-history/ 5 Ibid 6 Significance of the Graduate Hood, University of Alaska Anchorage, https://www.uaa.alaska.edu/students/commencement/graduate-degree-hooding-ceremony/significance-of-the-graduate-hood.cshtml 7 Academic Regalia in the United States, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Academic_regalia_in_the_United_States 8 Ibid Attachments VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Asanko Gold Inc. (Asanko or the Company) (TSX, NYSE American: AKG) reports first quarter (Q1) 2019 operating and financial results for the Asanko Gold Mine (AGM), located in Ghana, West Africa. The AGM is a 50:50 joint venture (JV) with Gold Fields Ltd (JSE, NYSE: GFI), which is managed and operated by Asanko. All amounts are in US dollars unless otherwise stated. Q1 2019 Asanko Gold Mine Highlights (100% basis) Produced 60,425 ounces of gold, on track to meet 2019 guidance of 225,000 245,000 ounces Generated EBITDA 1 of $10.1 million and operating cash flows before working capital changes of $10.5 million of $10.1 million and operating cash flows before working capital changes of $10.5 million Held unaudited cash of $16.3 million on hand, $7.1 million in receivables from gold sales and $7.1 million in gold on hand, as at March 31, 2019 All-in sustaining cost (AISC) 1 of $1,123/oz, with 2019 guidance of $1,040 $1,060/oz maintained of $1,123/oz, with 2019 guidance of $1,040 $1,060/oz maintained Net loss after tax of $14.1 million including a loss of $13.3 million associated with adjustments to the carrying value of ore stockpile inventory Q1 2019 Quarterly Consolidated Financials for Asanko Gold Inc. Net loss of $5.3 million including proportional adjustment to net realizable value of the ore stockpiles at the AGM of $6.0 million Adjusted EBITDA 1 of $3.1 million of $3.1 million Held $8.8 million in cash as of March 31, 2019, with the final $20 million cash payment related to the Gold Fields transaction expected no later than December 31, 2019 Commenting on the Q1 2019 performance, Greg McCunn, Chief Executive Officer, said: The Asanko Gold Mine delivered a solid operational performance producing 60,425 ounces, in line with our guidance for 2019. Costs for the quarter were impacted by higher trucking costs as we initiated mining operations at the large scale Esaase deposit. Commercial trucking contracts are now in place and we expect oxide ore from Esaase to represent 25-30% of the mill feed on an ongoing basis. In addition, we continued with the waste stripping of Cut 2 at Nkran. This is nearing completion and as the pushback comes to a conclusion in Q3, we forecast AISC to decline and maintain our full-year AISC guidance of $1,040 $1,060/oz. After a thorough review of our current operations in my first month as CEO, I can see that we are in the final stages of a two year capital investment program, which included a mill expansion from 3Mtpa to 5Mtpa, a major pushback of the Nkran pit and the initial development of Esaase. We are now well positioned to start harvesting the benefits of these major investments as we shift our focus to maximizing cashflow generation from the AGM over the next 18-24 months while we work with our JV partner on formulating the long-term development plan for Esaase and optimal life of mine plan for the AGM complex. Summary of Q1 2019 Asanko Gold Mine Operational and Financial Results AGM (100% Basis) Q1 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 2019 Waste mined (000t) 11,976 8,370 6,584 Ore mined (000t) 853 1,370 1,505 Strip ratio (W:O) 15.7 6.1 4.4 Average gold grade mined (g/t) 1.3 1.5 1.4 Mining costs ($/t mined) 3.23 4.13 4.48 Ore treated (000t) 1,269 1,238 1,224 Gold feed grade (g/t) 1.3 1.6 1.6 Gold recovery (%) 93 95 93 Processing costs ($/t treated) 11.17 12.39 11.93 Gold production (oz) 48,229 59,823 60,425 Gold sales (oz) 48,899 61,821 53,421 Average realized gold price ($/oz) 1,314 1,215 1,292 Operating cash costs1 ($/oz) 571 811 878 Total cash costs1 ($/oz) 637 872 943 All-in sustaining costs1 ($/oz) 1,226 1,072 1,123 All-in sustaining margin1 ($/oz) 88 143 169 All-in sustaining margin1 ($m) 4.3 8.8 9.0 Revenue ($m) 64.4 74.2 67.0 Income (loss) from mine operations ($m) 19.5 (0.8) (11.9) Net income (loss) after tax ($m) 4.7 (3.1) (14.1) EBITDA1 32.3 17.4 10.1 Cash provided by operating activities 20.1 12.9 8.8 Key Operational Highlights of the AGM (on a 100% basis) No lost time injuries (LTI) were reported during the quarter, and the AGM has now achieved over 24 months and more than 12.3 million employee hours worked without a single LTI. Waste stripping of the Cut 2 pushback at Nkran advancing towards final stages, expected to be complete in Q3 2019. Achieved steady state levels of production at Esaase in February 2019, with ore mining rates averaging 147,500 tonnes per month over February and March at an average grade of 1.3 g/t. Trucking costs for the quarter were elevated as contractors at Esaase transitioned from road construction activities to ore haulage activities. Effective April 1, 2019, commercial contracts in place and ore haulage costs expected to reduce to planned levels of $7.00-$7.50 per tonne hauled. Notice of the JVs intention to halt mining activities at Akwasiso was initiated during the quarter. JV Financial Performance The AGM incurred operating cash costs per ounce 1 of $878, total cash costs per ounce 1 of $943 and AISC 1 of $1,123 in Q1 2019. These costs include a $248/oz impact associated with adjustments to the carrying value of ore stockpile inventory and a $32/oz impact due to the Ghanaian Governments 5% non-refundable levy on certain goods and services. of $878, total cash costs per ounce of $943 and AISC of $1,123 in Q1 2019. These costs include a $248/oz impact associated with adjustments to the carrying value of ore stockpile inventory and a $32/oz impact due to the Ghanaian Governments 5% non-refundable levy on certain goods and services. Cash costs were higher in Q1 2019, compared to Q1 2018, partly due to fewer waste tonnes being capitalized to stripping costs. During the quarter, only $2.9 million of stripping costs were deferred compared to Q1 2018 when the Eastern portion of Cut 2 at Nkran was underway, which resulted in $26.1 million of stripping costs being deferred and excluded from cash costs. Cash costs for the quarter were also impacted by unusually high trucking rates at Esaase as contractors were transitioning from road construction activities to ore haulage activities. These factors were partially offset by higher gold sales volumes which decreased fixed production costs on a per unit basis. AlSC for Q1 2019 were lower compared to Asankos AISC for Q1 2018 predominantly due to a $479/oz reduction in capitalized stripping costs, associated with the Eastern portion of Cut 2 at Nkran, and higher gold sales volumes which decreased fixed costs on a per unit basis, partly offset by the previously described higher cash costs. While there are no comparative AISC metrics reported for the AGM on a standalone basis in Q1 2018, Asankos AISC for Q1 2018 included corporate G&A costs of $33/oz. Q1 2019 gold sales of 53,421 ounces at an average realized gold price of $1,292/oz generating gold sales of $69.0 millon. Gold sales were impacted by a change in the reporting period, which shortened the quarter to 83 days instead of the normal 90 days. This is a once-off timing adjustment. Revenue in Q1 2019 amounted to $67.0 million and includes by-product sales of $0.2 million and is reported net of $2.2 million of gold sales that were capitalized in relation to Esaase pre-production activities in January 2019. Total cost of sales (including depreciation and depletion and royalties) amounted to $78.9 million, an increase of $34.0 million from Q1 2018. The increase in production costs was primarily driven by an adjustment to the carrying value of the AGMs stockpile inventory to reflect the net realizable value of stockpiled ore, a one-time contract termination fee relating to one of the JVs mining contractors, the introduction of ore trucking from Esaase to the processing facility, as well as higher gold ounces sold. Additionally, depreciation and depletion during Q1 2019 accounted for $10.1 million of the increase in cost of sales, compared to Q1 2018, primarily due to the depletion of mineral interests related to Esaase, which commenced commercial operations in February 2019, while depreciation of right-of-use assets commenced in Q1 2019 following the capitalization of mining contractor leases in accordance with IFRS 16 Leases. Generated cash flow from operations of $8.8 million and $10.5 milion before working capital changes. The JV generated EBITDA 1 of $10.1 million in Q1 2019. of $10.1 million in Q1 2019. The AGMs net loss after tax for the quarter amounted to $14.1 million, compared to net income of $4.7 million in Q1 2018. The reduction in net income was due mainly to lower mine operating earnings in Q1 2019 as discussed above, partially offset by a reduction in deferred income tax expense and interest expense, the latter resulting from the settlement of the Red Kite debt in July 2018. At quarter end, the JV had unaudited cash of $16.3 million on hand, $7.1 million in receivables from gold sales and $7.1 million in gold on hand. Asanko Gold Inc. Summary Q1 2019 Financial Results Consolidated Q1 2018 Q4 2018 Q1 2019 Net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders ($m) 2.1 (0.9) (5.3) Net income (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders $0.01 ($0.00) ($0.02) Adjusted EBITDA1 ($m) 30.9 6.1 3.1 The Company reported a net loss of $5.3 million in Q1 2019 compared to net income attributable to common shareholders of $2.1 million in Q1 2018. The reduction in net income for Q1 2019 was predominantly the result of the reduction in mine operating earnings of the AGM, resulting in the JV reporting a net loss of $14.1 million, of which the Company recognized its share of $6.4 million. This was partly offset by the recognition of $1.1 million in service fees (net of withholding tax) earned as operators of the JV and $2.4 million of finance income relating to the fair value adjustment of the Companys preferred share investments in the JV. Reported Adjusted EBITDA1 of $3.1 million for Q1 2019 compared to $30.9 million in Q1 2018. The decrease in Adjusted EBITDA1 was primarily a result of the higher cash costs incurred by the AGM, as well as a reduction in the Companys interest in the AGM from 100% to 45%. These factors were partly offset by an increase in the AGMs revenue. 2019 Outlook The Asanko Gold Mine is on track to meet 2019 guidance of 225,000 245,000 ounces at AISC1 of $1,040 $1,060/oz. Since the announcement of the JV transaction, Asankos technical team, together with input from Gold Fields, have been reviewing the current Life of Mine plan. This includes a number of scenarios for the long-term development of the Esaase deposit, utilizing knowledge gained from the recent initiation of minining operations, as well as the exploration potential of the AGMs land package, particularly the highly prospective South Camp tenements. The JV partners are currently considering an optimal work plan and timing required to deliver an updated Life of Mine plan for the AGM and expect to update the market further in H2 2019. This news release should be read in conjunction with Asankos Managements Discussion and Analysis and the Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements for the three months ended March 31, 2019, which are available at www.asanko.com and filed on SEDAR. Notes: 1 Non-GAAP Performance Measures The Company has included certain non-GAAP performance measures in this press release. These non-GAAP performance measures do not have any standardized meaning. Accordingly, these performance measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. Refer to the Non-GAAP Measures section of Asankos Management Discussion and Analysis for an explanation of these measures and reconciliations to the Companys reported financial results in accordance with IFRS. Operating Cash Costs per ounce and Total Cash Costs per ounce Operating cash costs are reflective of the cost of production, adjusted for share-based payments and by-product revenue per ounce of gold sold. Total cash costs include production royalties of 5%. Operating cash costs are reflective of the cost of production, adjusted for share-based payments and by-product revenue per ounce of gold sold. Total cash costs include production royalties of 5%. All-in Sustaining Costs Per Gold Ounce The Company has adopted the reporting of all-in sustaining costs per gold ounce (AISC) as per the World Gold Councils guidance. AISC include total cash costs, corporate overhead expenses, sustaining capital expenditure, capitalized stripping costs and reclamation cost accretion per ounce of gold sold. Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders The Company has included the non-GAAP performance measures of adjusted net income (loss) attributable to common shareholders and adjusted net income (loss) per common share. Neither adjusted net income nor adjusted net income per share have any standardized meaning and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to other measures presented by other issuers. Adjusted net income excludes certain non-cash items from net income or net loss to provide a measure which helps the Company and investors to evaluate the results of the underlying core operations of the Company and its ability to generate cash flows and is an important indicator of the strength of our operations and the performance of our core business. Adjusted EBITDA EBITDA provides an indication of the Companys continuing capacity to generate income from operations before taking into account the Companys financing decisions and costs of amortizing capital assets. Accordingly, EBITDA comprises net income (loss) excluding interest expense, interest income, amortization and depletion, and income taxes. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA to exclude non-recurring items and to include the Companys interest in the adjusted EBITDA of the JV. Other companies and JV partners may calculate EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA differently. Qualified Person Statement Frederik Fourie (Pr.Eng), Asanko Senior Mining Engineer, is the Asanko Qualified Person, as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Mineral Disclosure), who has approved the preparation of the technical contents of this news release. About Asanko Gold Inc. Asankos flagship project, located in Ghana, West Africa, is the jointly owned Asanko Gold Mine with Gold Fields Ltd, which Asanko manages and operates. The Company is strongly committed to the highest standards for environmental management, social responsibility, and health and safety for its employees and neighbouring communities. For more information, please visit www.asanko.com . Forward-Looking and other Cautionary Information This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address estimated resource quantities, grades and contained metals, possible future mining, exploration and development activities, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as 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 for metals, the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses, the timely renewal of key permits, lower than expected grades and quantities of resources, mining rates and recovery rates and the lack of availability of necessary capital, which may not be available to the Company on terms acceptable to it or at all. The Company is subject to the specific risks inherent in the mining business as well as general economic and business conditions. For more information, investors should review the Company's Annual Form 40-F filing with the United States Securities Commission and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedar.com . Neither Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note to US Investors Regarding Mineral Reporting Standards: Asanko has prepared its disclosure in accordance with the requirements of securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of US securities laws. Terms relating to mineral resources in this press release are defined in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects under the guidelines set out in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum (the CIM Council) Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (the CIM Definition Standards). The Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) has adopted amendments to its disclosure rules to modernize the mineral property disclosure requirements for issuers whose securities are registered with the SEC. As a result of the adoption of the SEC Modernization Rules, SEC will now recognize estimates of measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources that are substantially similar to the corresponding terms under the CIM Definition Standards. In addition, the SEC has amended its definitions of proven mineral reserves and probably mineral reserves to be substantially similar to the corresponding CIM Definitions. United States investors are cautioned that while the above terms are substantially similar to CIM Definitions, there is no assurance any mineral reserves or mineral resources that the Company may report as proven reserves, probable reserves, measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources under NI 43-101 would be the same had the Company prepared the reserve or resource estimates under the standards adopted under the SEC Modernization Rules. Selbyville, Delaware, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The automotive seat belt market is poised to rise from USD 7 billion in 2018 to around USD 10 billion by 2025, according to a 2019 Global Market Insights, Inc. report. Ongoing initiatives to minimize injury severity and fatality in a vehicle crash will support market growth over the study timeframe. The safety belts are designed to absorb the crash impact to the limit influence on occupants body. Automotive manufacturers are implementing multiple safety systems to ensure passenger safety. Rising adoption of safety belts is driving the product demand across the globe. Rising awareness regarding driver and passenger safety is proliferating the automotive seat belt market demand. In 2018, NHTSA announced that the use rate of safety belts rose to around 90% and its use saved around 14,955 lives. Regulatory bodies are adopting stringent regulation to ensure occupants safety. In August 2018 European Union announced to adopt UNECE regulations from September 2019. The regulation mandates installation of seatbelt reminders for all front and rear seats. Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1944 Industry participants are investing in R&D to develop biometric sensor technologies that can be incorporated in safety belt to predict cardiac arrest and prevents fatal accidents. The cardiovascular and neurological conditions are frequent causes of attacks while driving. Automotive manufacturers along with research organizations are working to develop sensors to reduce fatalities. 3-point system will showcase a significant growth in automotive seat belt market size owing to superior safety features. In February 2017, NHTSA Fatality Reporting System announced 3-point seatbelt in light trucks reduces fatalities by 75% as that of 73% in 2-point seatbelt system. Commercial vehicle manufacturers are implementing the 3-point system to enhance occupant safety. PCV will dominate the automotive seat belt market size till 2025. This can be attributed to increasing passenger vehicle sales across the globe. Introduction of new passenger vehicle models along with advanced safety features will enhance the segment penetration. For instance, in March 2019, Tata Motors launched SUV Harrier with advanced safety features including belt reminder and airbags. Browse key industry insights spread across 250 pages with 511 market data tables & 11 figures & charts from the report, Automotive Seat Belts Market Size By Type (2 Point Seatbelt, 3 Point Seatbelt), By Vehicle (Passenger Vehicles, Light Commercial Vehicles, Heavy Commercial Vehicles), By Component (Webbing Strap, Retractors, Buckles, Tongues, Pillar Loops), By Distribution Channel (OEM, Aftermarket) Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland, Netherlands, China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Iran), Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2019 2025 in detail along with the table of contents: https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/automotive-seat-belts-market Retractors component segment in automotive seat belt market will witness significant growth owing to the development of several retractors including automatic locking and Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR). The vehicle manufacturers are launching vehicles with ELR owing to the higher comfort for seat assembly. In August 2018, Renault launched KWID with the incorporation of rear ELR systems. North America automotive seat belts market will witness significant growth during the forecast period owing to ongoing initiatives to develop efficient safety belt technologies. The program such as Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) encourages domestic industry players to develop new designs and prototypes that enhance the safety features. Further, presence of major automotive manufacturers will enhance product demand across the region. Major industry participants in the automotive seat belt market includes Autoliv AB, Toyoda Gosei Co. Ltd., Hyundai Mobis Co. Ltd., KSS, ZF TRW, Ashimori, and Takata Corporation. Industry players are expanding the product portfolio to serve larger consumer bases. Make an Inquiry for purchasing this report @ https://www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1944 Browse Related Reports: Automotive Airbags Market Size By Position (Frontal, Side, Side Curtain, Knee), By Fabric (Coated, Non-coated), By Vehicle (Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles), By Distribution Channel (OEM, Aftermarket), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland, Netherlands, China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Iran), Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2019 2025 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/automotive-airbags-market Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Market Size By Technology (Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic High Beam Control, Autonomous Park Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Driver Monitoring, Forward Collision Warning, Front Lighting, AEB, Night Vision, Head Up Display, Lane Departure Warning, Park Assist, Surround View System, Traffic Sign Recognition, Tire Pressure Monitoring System), By Sensor (LiDAR, Infrared, Ultrasonic, RADAR, Image Sensor), By Vehicle (PCV, LCV, HCV), By Distribution Channel (OEM, Aftermarket), Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook (U.S., Canada, Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico, Brazil , Argentina, Turkey, Iran, South Africa), Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2018 2024 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/adas-market About Global Market Insights Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology. TORONTO, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Compass Gold Corp. (TSX-V: CVB) (Compass or the Company) is pleased to provide an update on the results of their ongoing exploration activity on their Yanfolila North and Yanfolila South blocks, comprising parts of the Sikasso Property in Southern Mali. Highlights Completed 13 reverse circulation (RC) drill holes at Farabakoura artisanal workings, totalling 1,928 m Completed a detailed 3-sq.-km ground magnetic survey over the Kabangoue workings Ongoing 60 km of ground induced polarization (IP) examination at Ouassada and Faraba-Koura Identifying new drilling targets based on latest drilling and geophysical results Compass CEO, Larry Phillips, said, We have completed our latest round of drilling at Farabakoura, which has advanced our knowledge of this target area. Assays are pending for the last four of the thirteen holes drilled, and we expect to be able to release them within the next ten days. In the meantime, our technical team has been busy performing a number of geophysical and geochemical surveys. The results of all of this work will be used to finalize our next drilling program on the Ouassada and Faraba-Coura permits, which we expect to begin before the end of this month. Reverse Circulation Drilling (Farabakoura) As previously announced (see Compass news release dated March 28, 2019), the Company planned to conduct approximately 1,000 m of additional drilling at the extensive Farabakoura artisanal site. The focus of this additional drilling was to test two parallel NW-trending structures, termed the Farabakoura Pit Structure, and the Kabangoue Structure, and the general east-west trending structure termed the Farabakoura East Structure. Drilling targets were based on the interpretation of geophysical survey data and previous drilling results. The Company was able to extend this program to include a total of 13 new RC holes for a total length of 1,928 m. The final drill hole, OURC025, was completed on May 3. Results will be announced once the final assays are received from the laboratory and they pass appropriate industry QAQC protocols. Ground Magnetic Study (Kabangoue) A detailed ground magnetic survey, covering an area of 3 sq. km and centered on the Kabangoue artisanal workings, was completed on May 6, 2019. The north-south orientated grid is at a line-spacing of 50 m and will provide resolution to help plan the next phase of drilling at the artisanal workings. The field work was performed by technicians from EurekaGeo, a mineral exploration consultancy based in Bamako, Mali. This magnetic survey data will be interpreted by Jeremy S. Brett, M.Sc., P.Geo. (MPH Consulting Limited, Toronto), in consultation with Compass staff. Induced Polarization Survey (Ouassada and Faraba-Coura) A 60-line-km IP survey on the Ouassada and Faraba-Coura permits is nearing completion. The survey covers the 15 undrilled targets identified by airborne geophysics and corresponding deep auger geochemistry (see Compass news release dated May 28, 2018) over a distance of 14 km. The remaining 12-line km of the survey is expected to be completed within the next two weeks. All data collected to date is being interpreted by Jeremy S. Brett, M.Sc., P.Geo. (MPH Consulting Limited, Toronto), and drilling targets are being identified by the Compass technical team. Artisanal Pit Reject Sampling (Yanfolila South) Field teams are continuing to perform sampling of artisanal pit reject samples at the nine artisanal gold sites on the Yanfolila South block, and assay results will be released once this program is complete. To date, approximately 1,500 samples have been collected and analyzed, with additional assay results arriving bi-weekly. It is anticipated that limited bedrock drilling can take place on some of these workings prior to the beginning of the rainy season in late June. Next Steps: Once the final assay results have been received for the recently completed RC drilling at Farabakoura, a decision will be taken to determine the location and amount of additional drilling at the site. Interpretation of the new ground magnetic and IP survey data at Kabangoue, combined with geological mapping and geochemical sampling, will also be used to plan a 2,000-m drilling program over this exciting target. This next phase of drilling, and on-going drill programs will be performed by Compasss new drilling contractor, Capital Drilling. The ground magnetic field team has currently been redeployed to the Sodala prospect on the Sankarani permit to perform a high-resolution magnetic survey. This area has favourable geology, and shallow soil gold sampling last year by Compass identified several samples containing more than 0.5 gram per tonne gold. About Compass Gold Corp. Compass, a public company having been incorporated into Ontario, is a Tier 2 issuer on the TSX- V. Through the 2017 acquisition of MGE and Malian subsidiaries, Compass holds gold exploration permits located in Mali that comprise the Sikasso Property. The exploration permits are located in three sites in southern Mali with a combined land holding of 854 km2. The Sikasso Property is located in the same region as several multi-million ounce gold projects, including Morila, Syama, Kalana and Kodieran. The Companys Mali-based technical team, led in the field by Dr. Madani Diallo and under the supervision of Dr. Sandy Archibald, P.Geo, is initiating a new exploration program. They are examining the first of numerous anomalies noted for further investigation in Dr. Archibalds August 2017 National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report on the Sikasso Property, Southern Mali. Qualified Person This news release has been reviewed and approved by EurGeol. Dr. Sandy Archibald, P.Geo, Compasss Technical Director, who is the Qualified Person for the technical information in this news release under National Instrument 43-101 standards. ForwardLooking Information This news release contains "forwardlooking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the Companys planned exploration work and management appointments. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forwardlooking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by such information. The statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forwardlooking information except as required by applicable law. For further information please contact: Compass Gold Corporation Compass Gold Corporation Larry Phillips Pres. & CEO Greg Taylor Dir. Investor Relations & Corporate Communications lphillips@compassgoldcorp.com gtaylor@compassgoldcorp.com T: +1 416-596-0996 X 302 T: +1 416-596-0996 X 301 Website: www.compassgoldcorp.com NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. English French MONTREAL, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saputo Inc. (Saputo or the Company) (TSX: SAP) announces today an appointment in its senior management team following the acquisition of Dairy Crest Group plc (Dairy Crest) on April 15, 2019. Following a mutually agreed upon decision and the successful completion of the transaction, Mr. Mark Allen is stepping down as Chief Executive of Dairy Crest. As such, Mr. Tom Atherton, Dairy Crest Deputy Chief Executive and Group Finance Director, is appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of Saputos Dairy Division (UK). This appointment, effective immediately, follows the succession plans set forth by the Division. Mr. Atherton has worked for Dairy Crest since 2005. He was appointed as an Executive Director and Group Finance Director in 2013 and has also held the position of Deputy Chief Executive since January 2018. In his role, he has been instrumental in determining the strategic direction of Dairy Crest. Previously, Mr. Atherton held senior management positions within publicly-listed companies in the United Kingdom. Mr. Atherton will report to Mr. Kai Bockmann, President and Chief Operating Officer, Saputo Inc. and International Sector. Mr. Allen will remain with the Company to ensure a transition to Mr. Atherton until July 2019. About Saputo Saputo produces, markets, and distributes a wide array of dairy products of the utmost quality, including cheese, fluid milk, extended shelf-life milk and cream products, cultured products and dairy ingredients. Saputo is one of the top ten dairy processors in the world, the largest cheese manufacturer and the leading fluid milk and cream processor in Canada, the top dairy processor in Australia and the second largest in Argentina. In the USA, Saputo ranks among the top three cheese producers and is one of the largest producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products. In the United Kingdom, Saputo is the largest branded manufacturer of cheese and a top manufacturer of dairy spreads. Our products are sold in several countries under well-known brand names such as Saputo, Alexis de Portneuf, Armstrong, Cathedral City, Clover, COON, Cracker Barrel*, Dairyland, DairyStar, Devondale, Friendship Dairies, Frigo Cheese Heads, La Paulina, Milk2Go/Laits Go, Montchevre, Murray Goulburn Ingredients, Neilson, Nutrilait, Scotsburn*, Stella, Sungold, Treasure Cave and Woolwich Dairy. Saputo Inc. is a publicly traded company and its shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SAP. *Trademark used under licence. Media Inquiries 1-514-328-3141 / 1-866-648-5902 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0c645587-3c26-4742-966e-7b72cf6e25e2 PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/8b4191e2-ba80-4352-945f-016c6edc3aad English Dutch French - Approval of a gross dividend of 0.70 - Approval of the proposed appointments Today Bekaerts Annual General Meeting of Shareholders took place, with Mr Bert De Graeve, Chairman of the Board of Directors, in the chair. The following main subjects were considered. The meeting approved the balance sheet and the income statement as at 31 December 2018, as submitted by the Board of Directors, including the distribution of a gross dividend of 0.70 per share. The dividend ex-date is 9 May 2019. The dividend will be payable on 13 May 2019 by the following banks: ING Belgium, Bank Degroof Petercam, BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC Bank and Belfius Bank in Belgium, Societe Generale in France, ABN-AMRO Bank in the Netherlands and UBS in Switzerland. The meeting acknowledged the 2018 annual report of the Board of Directors, and approved the remuneration report for the year 2018. The meeting discharged the Directors and the Statutory Auditor for the performance of their duties during the financial year 2018 and approved the remuneration of the Directors and the Statutory Auditor. The meeting decreased the number of Directors from fifteen to thirteen and accepted the recommendations: - to appoint Mr Jurgen Tinggren as independent Director for a term of four years, until the Annual General Meeting to be held in 2023; - to appoint Ms Caroline Storme as Director for a term of four years, until the Annual General Meeting to be held in 2023; - to re-appoint Mr Gregory Dalle as Director for a term of four years, until the Annual General Meeting to be held in 2023; - to re-appoint Mr Charles de Liedekerke as Director for a term of three years, until the Annual General Meeting to be held in 2022; - to re-appoint Mr Hubert Jacobs van Merlen as Director for a term of three years, until the Annual General Meeting to be held in 2022; - to re-appoint Deloitte Bedrijfsrevisoren/Reviseurs d'Entreprises as Statutory Auditor for a term of three years, until the Annual General Meeting to be held in 2022. Messrs Bert De Graeve, Leon Bekaert and Maxime Jadot did not seek re-appointment. Mr Bert De Graeve, who was appointed an Honorary Chairman by the General Meeting, is succeeded as Chairman of the Board of Directors by Mr Jurgen Tinggren. Messrs Leon Bekaert and Maxime Jadot received the title of Honorary Director. Ms Martina Merz resigned as Director. Related press release: 1 March 2019: Bekaert announces organizational and leadership changes. The meeting approved a number of change of control provisions. Today an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders took place as well. As no legal quorum was reached, the Extraordinary General Meeting was not able to validly deliberate and decide. The Board of Directors has decided to convene a second Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders to be held on Wednesday 3 July 2019 at 11:30 a.m. with the same agenda items. Such meeting will validly deliberate and decide irrespective of the portion of the capital represented by the shareholders attending the meeting. Attachment NEW YORK, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NetworkWire Hemptown USA, a proven grower of broad spectrum hemp biomass and flower grown with premium Oregon CBD seed genetics, today announces it has selected the corporate communications expertise of NetworkNewsWire ("NNW"). Hemptown USA only grows with the best in class, premium seed genetics that contain less than 0.3% THC and exceptionally high cannabinoid (CBD) content of up to 20%. The company has acquired 1 million rare CBG (cannabigerol) seeds bred by Oregon CBD to yield between 12% to 20% broad spectrum CBG cannabinoids. Hemptown USAs harvest from its Oregon hemp farm in 2018 was 110,000 pounds of broad spectrum biomass with CBD content ranging from 15-20%. Harvest revenue from 2018s crop is expected to exceed $7M. The company is scaling up operations in 2019 to meet market demand and projects it will harvest up to 1 million pounds in Oregon. NNW is a multifaceted financial news and publishing company that delivers a new generation of social communication solutions, news aggregation and syndication, and enhanced news release services. NNWs strategies help public and private organizations find their voice and build market visibility. As part of the Client-Partner relationship with Hemptown USA, NNW will leverage its investor-based distribution network of over 5,000 key syndication outlets, various newsletters, social media channels, blogs, and other outreach tools to generate greater brand awareness for the company. Hemptowns premium cannabinoid genetics program, scale and disruptive product formulations set the stage for an exciting year of growth," states Sherri Franklin, Director of Client Solutions for NNW. As the company focuses on expanding its market reach, we will execute a corporate communications campaign that places its strategy and accomplishments in front of the investment community. About Hemptown USA Hemptown USA, headquartered in Central Point, Oregon, is a proven grower of broad spectrum feminized hemp that contain less than 0.3% THC and exceptionally high cannabinoid (CBD) profiles of up to 20% with small amounts of CBG and CBD included. The companys unique growing methodology combines seasoned professionals from the cannabis industry working in the nations premium agricultural microclimates. In addition to Oregons famed Emerald Triangle, Hemptown will also be contract farming with experienced hemp growers in Colorado and Kentucky. Founded in 2016 by Rod Wolterman, Hemptown USA is positioned to be a leading CBG producer in the U.S. in 2019. For more information, visit: HemptownUSA About NetworkNewsWire NetworkNewsWire (NNW) is a financial news and content distribution company that provides (1) access to a network of wire services via NetworkWire to reach all target markets, industries and demographics in the most effective manner possible, (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets, (3) enhanced press release services to ensure maximum impact, (4) social media distribution via the Investor Brand Network (IBN) to nearly 2 million followers, (5) a full array of corporate communications solutions, and (6) a total news coverage solution with NNW Prime . As a multifaceted organization with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, NNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in todays market, NNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. NNW is where news, content and information converge. For more information, please visit: https://www.NetworkNewsWire.com . Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the NetworkNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by NNW, wherever published or re-published: http://NNW.fm/Disclaimer . Forward-Looking Statements This release contains 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. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain as they are based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in this release and matters set in the company's SEC filings. These risks and uncertainties could cause the company's actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Corporate Communications: BSH Home Appliances Corporation has opened its recently expanded dishwasher manufacturing facility in New Bern, N.C. The $32 million, 100,000-square-foot-expansion gives BSH a larger footprint for manufacturing and operations to support future growth The opening of the facility comes on the heels of BSH producing its 10 millionth dishwasher at the New Bern facility NEW BERN, N.C., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BSH Home Appliances Corporation is proud to announce the opening of its expanded dishwasher manufacturing facility in New Bern, N.C., that broke ground in August of 2017. The 100,000-square-foot expansion adds to the previous 245,000-square-foot facility, providing BSH with a larger footprint to support the organizations continued growth. With more than 20 years of manufacturing history in New Bern, BSH also recently celebrated the 10 millionth dishwasher produced in this facility. Through the $32 million expansion, BSH will drive greater operational efficiencies, introduce new equipment and processes, further ensure the quality of its dishwashers, enhance the employee experience onsite and prepare for future production growth. The new facility includes new equipment and processes, centralized warehousing, a larger footprint for quality testing and measurement, two new 1,700-square-foot training rooms and a larger break room for employees. Furthermore, the expansion allows BSH the opportunity to expand production lines for future demand growth. BSH is proud of our longstanding history in New Bern, N.C., where we employ over 1,400 people and have produced high-quality dishwashers for over 20 years, said Christofer von Nagel, BSH Home Appliances CEO and president. Countless dishwasher innovations were born in New Bern, and as demand for our outstanding appliances continues to grow, this expansion enables us to continue to meet increasing consumer demand. The New Bern dishwasher facility is an integral part of BSHs success, introducing many recent dishwasher innovations and features for the Bosch and Thermador brands that have set industry benchmarks. This includes solidifying Boschs reputation as the quietest dishwasher on the market, the introduction of the Bosch MyWay rack that provides the industrys largest third rack loading capacity, and new drying technology that exceeds consumer expectations for drying. With more than two decades of history in New Bern, this expansion cements BSHs commitment to New Bern, Craven County and the state of North Carolina. In addition to BSHs support of the community through philanthropy and education funding, and its longstanding partnership with Craven Community College, BSH also recently donated 10 dishwashers to the local Habitat for Humanity chapter in celebration of the 10 millionth dishwasher milestone. For more information about BSH Home Appliances, please visit www.bsh-group.com/us/ . About BSH Home Appliances Corporation BSH Home Appliances Corporation produces and markets small and major home appliances that are known across North America for their high-quality and superior innovation. BSH sells its Gaggenau, Thermador and Bosch branded products throughout North America, through distributors, independent appliance dealers, national and regional retailers, builders and large buying groups. BSH Home Appliances Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of BSH Home Appliances Group, headquartered in Munich, Germany, the largest manufacturer of home appliances in Europe and one of the leading companies in the sector worldwide. Manufacturing facilities are located in New Bern, North Carolina, and La Follette, Tennessee. BSH Technology and Development Centers are located in Knoxville and Caryville, Tennessee and New Bern, North Carolina. https://www.bsh-group.com/us/ Contact: Debbie Ehrman Finn Partners 310-882-4016 deborah@finnpartners.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4cb6b1a8-626d-4a94-a462-cc6c70f28b35 Major milestone achieved with the commencement of ore processing at the Woodlawn Zinc-Copper Mine Operations now expected to progressively ramp-up to an estimated throughput capacity of 1.5Mtpa Hydraulic mining is operating at full production rate Underground development advance has exceeded plan for the third consecutive month - 1.4 km of development completed to date SYDNEY, Australia, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heron Resources Limited (Heron or the Company) is pleased to announce it has successfully commenced processing activities at its 100% owned Woodlawn Zinc-Copper Mine. Reclaimed tailing from hydraulic mining operations are now being processed in the new flotation treatment facility. This is a significant milestone in the development of the project, marking the start of full production activities. Attention has now turned to the ramp-up program with a focus on increasing throughput to nameplate capacity, achieving design recoveries and meeting product quality specifications for the three base metal concentrates which will be produced at Woodlawn. In addition, preparation for the first processing campaign of high-grade underground ore is well advanced and will proceed following the current ramp-up program. Underground mining continues to perform well, with production in the last three months exceeding plans, and development ore from the G2 Lens stockpiled at the crushing circuit in readiness for processing. Based on the current Ore Reserves mine plan, the project is expected to produce three concentrates at an average annualised gross production rate at steady-state of 40,000t zinc, 10,000t copper, 12,000t lead, 900,000 ounces silver and 4,000 ounces gold over an initial mine life of 9.3 years. Significant potential for mine life extensions exists through the conversion of high grade underground resources and further exploration success. Commenting on the commencement of processing operations, Herons Managing Director and CEO, Wayne Taylor said, We are excited to have now achieved this significant milestone in the transition from explorer to producer with the processing of the first reclaimed tailing through the Woodlawn plant. Commencing operations is timely, and we look forward to taking advantage of continuing favourable conditions in base metals markets as we ramp-up our operations. Heron will provide further updates associated with the process plant ramp-up, production activities and other material developments as they occur. About Heron Resources Limited (ASX: HRR) Heron Resources Limited is engaged in the exploration and development of base and precious metal deposits in Australia. Herons primary focus is on its 100% owned, high grade Woodlawn Zinc-Copper Project located 250km southwest of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia one of the few new zinc projects that is fully-funded to production. With production now commenced, the Company is on track to participate in the pricing environment supported by a strong zinc physical market. In addition, the Company has a number of significant high quality, base and precious metal tenements regional to the Woodlawn Project. Record quarterly revenue Increased retail distribution by over 1,000 stores LAS VEGAS, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CV Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB:CVSI) ("CV Sciences" or the Company) announced today its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. First Quarter 2019 Financial and Operating Highlights Record revenue of $14.9 million for the first quarter of 2019, an increase of 85% over the same quarter in 2018; Strong gross margin of 70.8% compared to gross margin of 68.9% in the first quarter of 2018 Retail distribution increased to 3,308 stores as of March 31, 2019, a 48% increase from December 31, 2018; Expanded retail presence into the food, drug and mass channel and are in active discussions for further expansion of the PlusCBD Oil brand; and Generated $0.8 million of cash from operations, with cash balance increasing to $13.6 million at quarter end. We continued to expand retail distribution of the PlusCBD Oil brand and drive sales growth during the first quarter. We generated 85% revenue growth over prior year, achieving another record quarter, with strong gross margin performance, stated Joseph Dowling, Chief Executive Officer of CV Sciences. The PlusCBD Oil brand is now available in over 3,300 stores nationwide, including national food, drug and mass merchandiser accounts. As anticipated, since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, we have seen significant interest in the hemp-derived CBD category across retailers and channels, and we are in discussions with multiple retailers for new retail placements. We are making the investments across the organization to position ourselves to capitalize on the growing retailer and consumer demand. Our drug development program remains on track and we continue to anticipate filing an Investigational New Drug application in late 2019 / early 2020. We have the brand, the people and the unique business model focused on both consumer products and drug development to maximize our opportunity in the rapidly growing hemp CBD industry. Operating Results - First Quarter 2019 Compared to First Quarter 2018 Sales for the first quarter of 2019 were $14.9 million, an increase of 85% from $8.1 million in the first quarter of 2018. First quarter sales growth reflects the Company's continued organic expansion into all sales channels, including food drug and mass, natural product retail, wholesale and direct-to-consumer channels. The Company's retail store count increased to 3,308 stores nationwide at March 31, 2019, up from 2,238 stores as of December 31, 2018. The Company recognized an operating loss of $9.4 million in the first quarter of 2019, compared to an operating income of $0.7 million in the first quarter of the prior year. The operating loss is primarily related to additional stock-based compensation and payroll expense associated with the retirement of the Company's founder and former President and Chief Executive Officer. As reported under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), first quarter 2019 net loss was $9.4 million, compared with a GAAP net income of $0.6 million in the same period in 2018. Diluted net loss per share was $0.10 for the first quarter of 2019 compared to a diluted net income per share of $0.01 for the same period in 2018. Non-GAAP net income for the first quarter of 2019 was $1.5 million, or $0.01 per diluted share based on weighted average shares outstanding of 115.6 million. This compares with non-GAAP net income of $1.7 million or $0.02 per diluted share based on weighted average shares outstanding of 95.6 million for the same period in 2018. Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter of 2019 was $1.7 million or 11.3% of net revenue, compared to $1.8 million or 22.6% of net revenue, in the first quarter of 2018. Conference Call and Webcast The Company will host a conference call and webcast to discuss these results today at 4:30 pm EDT/1:30 pm PDT. The webcast of the conference call will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company's web site at https://ir.cvsciences.com/news-events and at http://public.viavid.com/index.php?id=134448 . Investors interested in participating in the live call can also dial (877) 407-0784 from the U.S. or international callers can dial (201) 689-8560. A telephone replay will be available approximately two hours after the call concludes and will be available through Wednesday, May 15, 2019, by dialing (844) 512-2921 from the U.S. or (412) 317-6671 from international locations, and entering confirmation code 13690537. About CV Sciences, Inc. CV Sciences, Inc. (OTCQB:CVSI) operates two distinct business segments: a consumer product division focused on manufacturing, marketing and selling hemp-based CBD products to a range of market sectors; and a drug development division focused on developing and commercializing novel therapeutics utilizing CBD. The Companys PlusCBD Oil is the top-selling brand of hemp-derived CBD on the market, according to SPINS, the leading provider of syndicated data and insights for the natural, organic and specialty products industry. CV Sciences, Inc. has primary offices and facilities in San Diego, California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Additional information is available from OTCMarkets.com or by visiting www.cvsciences.com. Forward Looking Statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and information, as defined within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the Safe Harbor created by those sections. This material contains statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward-looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements by definition involve risk and uncertainties. Contact Information Investor Contact: ICR Scott Van Winkle 617-956-6736 scott.vanwinkle@icrinc.com Media Contact: ICR Cory Ziskind 646-277-1232 cory.ziskind@icrinc.com CV SCIENCES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (in thousands, except per share data) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Product sales, net $ 14,911 $ 8,071 Cost of goods sold 4,352 2,509 Gross Profit 10,559 5,562 Operating expenses: Research and development 1,342 154 Selling, general and administrative 18,595 4,740 19,937 4,894 Operating Income (Loss) (9,378) 668 Interest expense 6 49 Income (loss) before provision for income taxes (9,384) 619 Provision for income taxes Net Income (Loss) $ (9,384) $ 619 Weighted average common shares outstanding Basic 95,168 90,513 Diluted 95,168 95,636 Net income (loss) per common share Basic $ (0.10) $ 0.01 Diluted $ (0.10) $ 0.01 CV SCIENCES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands, except per share data) March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets Current assets: Cash $ 13,638 $ 12,684 Restricted cash 251 Accounts receivable, net 3,771 3,340 Inventory 7,900 7,132 Prepaid expenses and other 8,367 2,059 Total current assets 33,676 25,466 Inventory 771 1,418 Property & equipment, net 2,730 2,844 Operating lease assets 3,997 Intangibles, net 3,792 3,801 Goodwill 2,788 2,788 Other assets 637 585 Total assets $ 48,391 $ 36,902 Liabilities and stockholders' equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 938 $ 1,245 Accrued expenses 9,499 2,673 Operating lease liability - current 634 Notes payable, net 273 474 Total current liabilities 11,344 4,392 Operating lease liability 4,668 Deferred rent 1,329 Deferred tax liability 1,065 1,065 Other liabilities 437 Total liabilities 17,514 6,786 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' equity Preferred stock, par value $0.0001; 10,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding Common stock, par value $0.0001; 190,000 shares authorized, 98,479 and 94,940 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively 10 9 Additional paid-in capital 65,278 55,134 Accumulated deficit (34,411 ) (25,027 ) Total stockholders' equity 30,877 30,116 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 48,391 $ 36,902 CV SCIENCES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW (in thousands) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income (loss) $ (9,384 ) $ 619 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 177 119 Amortization of beneficial conversion feature of convertible debts 13 Stock-based compensation 2,091 1,036 Stock-based compensation associated with employment settlement 7,857 Bad debt expense 25 3 Noncash lease expense 124 Change in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable (456 ) 235 Inventory (121 ) 509 Prepaid expenses and other current assets (551 ) 94 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 999 (1,062 ) Deferred rent 88 Net cash provided by operating activities 761 1,654 INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of equipment (54 ) (138 ) Tenant improvements to leasehold real estate (71 ) Net cash flows used in investing activities (54 ) (209 ) FINANCING ACTIVITIES Repayment of convertible debt in cash (300 ) Repayment of unsecured debt in cash (201 ) (49 ) Proceeds from exercise of stock options 197 Net cash flows used in financing activities (4 ) (349 ) Net increase in cash and restricted cash 703 1,096 Cash and restricted cash, beginning of period 12,935 2,792 Cash and restricted cash, end of period $ 13,638 $ 3,888 Supplemental cash flow disclosures: Interest paid $ 6 $ 34 Taxes paid $ 4 $ CV SCIENCES, INC. NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (in thousands) We prepare our condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for the United States (GAAP). The non-GAAP financial measures such as net income and loss per share and Adjusted EBITDA included in this press release are different from those otherwise presented under GAAP. We use non-GAAP measures internally to evaluate our performance and make financial and operational decisions that are presented in a manner that adjusts from their equivalent GAAP measures or that supplement the information provided by our GAAP measures. The non-GAAP financial measures exclude non-cash compensation expense for stock options and other non-recurring items. When evaluating the performance of our business and developing short and long-term plans, we do not consider share-based compensation charges. Although share-based compensation is necessary to attract and retain quality employees, our consideration of share-based compensation places its primary emphasis on overall shareholder dilution rather than the accounting charges associated with such grants. Because of the varying availability of valuation methodologies and subjective assumptions, we believe that the exclusion of share-based compensation allows for more accurate comparison of our financial results to previous periods. In addition, we believe it useful to investors to understand the specific impact of the application of the fair value method of accounting for share-based compensation on our operating results. Adjusted EBITDA is defined by us as EBITDA (net income (loss) plus depreciation expense, amortization expense, interest and income tax expense, minus income tax benefit), further adjusted to exclude certain non-cash expenses and other adjustments as set forth below. We use Adjusted EBITDA because we believe it more clearly highlights trends in our business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on GAAP financial measures, since Adjusted EBITDA eliminates from our results specific financial items that have less bearing on our core operating performance. We use Adjusted EBITDA in communicating certain aspects of our results and performance, including in this press release, and believe that Adjusted EBITDA, when viewed in conjunction with our GAAP results and the accompanying reconciliation, can provide investors with greater transparency and a greater understanding of factors affecting our financial condition and results of operations than GAAP measures alone. In addition, we believe the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors in making period-to-period comparison of results because the adjustments to GAAP are not reflective of our core business performance. A reconciliation from our GAAP net income (loss) to non-GAAP net income (loss) for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 is detailed below: Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (in thousands, except per share data) Net income (loss) - GAAP $ (9,384 ) $ 619 Stock-based compensation (1) 2,091 1,036 Stock-based compensation associated with employment settlement (2) 7,857 Payroll expense associated with employment settlement (3) 934 Net income - non-GAAP $ 1,498 $ 1,655 Diluted EPS - GAAP $ (0.10 ) $ 0.01 Stock-based compensation (1) 0.02 0.01 Stock-based compensation associated with employment settlement (2) 0.08 Payroll expense associated with employment settlement (3) 0.01 Diluted EPS - non-GAAP $ 0.01 $ 0.02 Shares used to calculate diluted EPS - GAAP 95,168 95,636 Shares used to calculate diluted EPS - non-GAAP 115,581 95,636 _____________ (1) Represents stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and warrants awarded to employees, consultants and non-executive directors based on the grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. (2) Represents stock-based compensation expense related to accelerated vesting of RSU's and the modification of certain stock options associated with the settlement agreement with our former President and Chief Executive Officer. (3) Represents accrued payroll and related benefits associated with the retirement of our former President and Chief Executive Officer. A reconciliation from our net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 is detailed below: Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 (in thousands) Net income (loss) $ (9,384 ) $ 619 Depreciation 168 110 Amortization 9 9 Interest expense 6 48 EBITDA (9,201 ) 786 Stock-based compensation (1) 2,091 1,036 Stock-based compensation associated with employment settlement (2) 7,857 Payroll expense associated with employment settlement (3) 934 Adjusted EBITDA $ 1,681 $ 1,822 _________________ (1) Represents stock-based compensation expense related to stock options and warrants awarded to employees, consultants and non-executive directors based on the grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. (2) Represents stock-based compensation expense related to accelerated vesting of RSU's and the modification of certain stock options associated with the settlement agreement with our former President and Chief Executive Officer. (3) Represents accrued payroll and related benefits associated with the retirement of our former President and Chief Executive Officer. CALGARY, Alberta, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gran Tierra Energy Inc. (Gran Tierra) (NYSE American:GTE) (TSX:GTE) (LSE:GTE), today announces the voting results from its annual meeting of stockholders held on May 7, 2019. Stockholders elected all eight individuals nominated by Gran Tierra. In addition, stockholders voted FOR the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as Gran Tierras independent registered public accounting firm for 2019, and FOR the approval, on an advisory basis, of the compensation of Gran Tierras named executive officers. The detailed results of the vote are as follows: Proposal 1 Election of Directors For Percent Against Percent Abstain Percent Non Votes Gary S. Guidry 246,882,318 97.7 4,557,034 1.8 1,128,231 0.4 36,206,201 Peter Dey 233,473,291 92.4 18,025,013 7.1 1,069,279 0.4 36,206,201 Evan Hazell 247,427,148 98.0 4,083,408 1.6 1,057,027 0.4 36,206,201 Robert B. Hodgins 234,458,566 92.8 17,053,435 6.8 1,055,582 0.4 36,206,201 Ronald Royal 247,414,526 98.0 4,091,398 1.6 1,061,659 0.4 36,206,201 Sondra Scott 247,243,337 97.9 4,271,672 1.7 1,052,574 0.4 36,206,201 David P. Smith 247,416,692 98.0 4,095,366 1.6 1,055,525 0.4 36,206,201 Brooke Wade 238,308,731 94.4 13,205,457 5.2 1,053,395 0.4 36,206,201 Proposal 2 For Percent Against Percent Abstain Percent Non Votes Ratification of Appointment of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 287,279,796 99.5 1,368,710 0.5 125,278 0.04 0 Proposal 3 For Percent Against Percent Abstain Percent Non Votes Approval of Named Executive Officer Compensation 243,711,817 96.5 7,423,029 2.9 1,432,737 0.6 36,206,201 About Gran Tierra Energy Inc. Gran Tierra Energy Inc. together with its subsidiaries is an independent international energy company focused on oil and natural gas exploration and production in Colombia and Ecuador. Gran Tierras Securities and Exchange Commission filings are available on a web site maintained by the Securities and Exchange Commission at http://www.sec.gov and on SEDAR at http://www.sedar.com and UK regulatory filings are available on the National Storage Mechanism website at www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/nsm. Contact Information For investor and media inquiries please contact: Gary Guidry Chief Executive Officer Ryan Ellson Chief Financial Officer Rodger Trimble Vice President, Investor Relations PHILADELPHIA, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Drawing from his years of experience with BOTOX at his Philadelphia -area practice, as well as his work with other injectable neurotoxins used as cosmetic treatments, Dr. Timothy Greco of Bala Cynwyd started 2019 by speaking to an international group of physicians, scientists, and more at a conference in Copenhagen, Denmark. His visit furthered his already considerable reputation in the field of facial cosmetic surgery and complementary nonsurgical treatments. Dubbed TOXIN 2019, the meetingan annual event organized by the International Neurotoxin Association featured presentations such as Dr. Grecos, as well as clinical workshops, live demonstrations, and more Jan. 16 to 19. Previous events drew more than 1,000 attendees from more than 50 countries around the world. Dr. Grecos presentation was titled Toxins OnlyNonsurgical Facial RejuvenationAdvanced Techniques with Neuromodulators. During his talk, he highlighted the difference between static and dynamic lines, as well as explained conditions commonly addressed by Botulinum toxin therapy. Injectables available in the United States include BOTOXthe most commonly administered cosmetic treatment across the world each yearas well as Dysport and Xeomin. The three brands are all derived from the same bacterium, but each has unique dosing and attributes. They are not interchangeable. A new neuromodulator is on the horizon with a six-month lifespan. During my trip to Denmark, I was impressed by the products that I hope to one day use in my practice, Dr. Greco said. Neuromodulators like BOTOX are becoming more mainstream, affordable, and used to treat more than just wrinkles. In a few years, we could see a standard of an increased dosage, with a decreased volume to help the duration of the products effectiveness while avoiding adverse side effects. It is something that shows great promise in the treatment of hyperfunctional rhytid. Dr. Greco also shared techniques for elevating the brow with BOTOX, as well as reducing the appearance of frown lines and crows feet, bunny lines on the nose, perioral lines around the mouth, nasal tip depressions, nasal flaring, platysmal bands, and more. Images he presented revealed neurotoxins role in preventing an excess of gum showing when someone smiles, addressing excessive chin dimpling, altering the shape of the jaw, and correcting asymmetrical features. Neurotoxins can also be used to curb excessive sweatinga condition technically known as hyperhidrosis . Dr. Greco is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery. He is the author of multiple facial plastic surgery papers and is a trainer with the Palette Education Faculty, working with physicians and nurse injectors to teach injection techniques that maximize cosmetic results and safety. The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research will launch a new Evening with an Entrepreneur speaker series this month and will feature local business leader Rick Barker as the debut presenter. The series is designed to highlight entrepreneurs and their journeys in an interactive setting to support and encourage growth of entrepreneurism in Southern Virginia. As our communities transform and grow, the entrepreneurial vein is a vital component to the process that we want to strengthen and inspire, said Mark Gignac, executive director of the Institute. The first session of the series is set from 5:30 to 7 p.m. May 20 at the Institute. Barker will share remarks about the challenges, solutions and advice integral to his experience and will invite discussion in an interactive format. The evening will end with a networking reception. While the event is free, seating is limited and advance online registration is required at bit.ly/2UHvAYy. An area native, Barker is the founder and president of Supply Resources Inc. and its affiliated companies, SRI Global, Virginia Public Warehouse and Rick Barker Properties. The flagship brand, Supply Resources, is headquartered in Danvilles River District and was founded in 2006 with Barkers 20 years experience working with the nation's largest packaging distributors. Stacker lists 10 ways consumers end up overspending in stores and online, with tips to help curb the effect of store tactics and manipulation. Jurors who will hear the federal cases against accused members of the Rollin 60s Crips and Milla Bloods street gangs will be drawn from the Danville area the ruling comes after a month of back-and-forth debate between defense attorneys and government prosecutors. Danville Division citizens should not lose their opportunity to participate in the jury whose verdict will determine the outcome of a case that affects their community, U.S. District Judge Michael F. Urbanski wrote in a recently released order. Urbanski has ordered that the pool of possible jurors to hear both cases will come from the Danville division encompassing the cities of Danville and Martinsville as well as the counties of Charlotte, Halifax, Henry, Patrick and Pittsylvania. The drive to Roanokes federal courthouse, where the trials will be held, could take as long as two hours for someone in this division. Federal prosecutors, who sought a jury pool from the Roanoke area, also lost their bid for an anonymous jury because there was no clear evidence of danger to the jury or interference in the proceedings. Initially, 18 suspected members of the Rollin 60s and Millas were indicted last June in connection to the shooting death of Christopher Lamont Motley and other attempted killings. Since then, the number of indictments has increased to 20 people and seven have pleaded guilty. Prosecutors had requested the juries be drawn from the Roanoke division to save jurors from long rides to court. Urbanski, who from the first status conference was in favor of a Danville jury, said the logistical inconveniences do not outweigh the communitys right to hear the case. This case emanates from the Danville Division and belongs there, Urbanski wrote. The judge also pointed out that jurors drawn from the Roanoke division could be required to make hefty commutes as well. The division covers Roanoke city and county along with counties as far southwest as Grayson, which could be as much as a two-hour drive to the federal courthouse, and northeast as Alleghany, which could be as much as an hour-and-a-half drive. Prosecutors petitioned to have the jurors identities concealed throughout the two racketeering cases out of concerns for their safety from possible reprisal and intimidation, but Urbanski wrote that there has not been any concrete evidence of a potential threat and denied the request. Additionally, Urbanski wrote, an anonymous jury can limit defendants constitutional rights, giving jurors the impression that they need protection from those they judge. That makes defendants seem dangerous. An anonymous jury threatens two substantial constitutional rights: the right to trial by an impartial jury and the right to a presumption of innocence (made the more difficult for jurors to respect by the inferences they may unavoidably draw from their own anonymity), Urbanski wrote. Prosecutors also indirectly pointed to the October shooting death of Dwight Montel Harris at 625 Cabell St. as cause for empanelling an anonymous jury. Without naming Harris, the government wrote that a victim named in the indictments was lured into the heart of the defendants gang territory and shot to death in broad daylight. Harris had been named in the indictment and was shot before prosecutors filed emergency motions to prohibit defense attorneys and defendants from revealing witnesses names. Urbanski noted the governments reasoning but said that was not evidence linking the shooting to the cases. He noted there have not been other attempts to interfere with the prosecution. In almost every case in which a court decided an anonymous jury was warranted, the court had undisputed evidence of specific instances of meddling in the judicial process, usually by violence or threat, Urbanski wrote. Here, in contrast, there is nothing other than timing linking the shooting incident to this case. The trials, scheduled to begin in October and January, are expected to take seven weeks for each case. James Whitlow reports for the Danville Register & Bee. Contact him at jwhitlow@registerbee.com or (434) 791-7983. Authorities have charged a 34-year-old Danville woman after a bomb threat was made Tuesday night on a local Wendys, the Danville Police Department reported. The Wendys on Piney Forest Road received a call Tuesday at about 7 p.m., the department reported. The caller mentioned an explosive device and shooting, so the building was evacuated. The Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office swept the fast food eatery with a bomb-sniffing dog and found nothing. Through the evening, investigators identified Quintara Rachelle Kirby as a suspect. She is facing a charge of making a bomb threat. James Whitlow reports for the Danville Register & Bee. Contact him at jwhitlow@registerbee.com or (434) 791-7983. After a billboard emerged in Martinsville to denounce same-sex marriage, a crowdfunding campaign has emerged that seeks to create a sign with a message of tolerance and inclusiveness. Travelers heading west on Commonwealth Boulevard have for the past month encountered a billboard that depicts a man and a woman holding hands behind the message: MARRIAGE IS 1 MAN + 1 WOMAN. This billboard was sponsored by Thomas Farrell, president of Thou Shall Ministries. Its presence has drawn many questions and concerns on social media from the Martinsville community about the intent of its message and the identity of the sponsoring organization. And now, amid all that discussion, people are donating to a GoFundMe campaign to create a Gay Pride billboard. With 44 backers and growing since its launch date of April 24, this campaign has raised nearly 50% of its $2,000 goal. About 25% of that goal was reached within the first 48 hours. In less than two weeks, a total of $914 has been donated. Farrell has said he paid $1,700 for his message to stay up for 2 months. The campaign was created by Ariel Vaughn, 30, of Martinsville. The billboard espoused intolerance and exclusion while blatantly condemning same-sex marriage, she said. And she said Farrells billboard appears to read that gay marriage is wrong and a sin against God, so consequently being gay is wrong. Some people just see an affirmation of their religious beliefs. Its hard for them to put themselves in someone elses shoes. She said she respects Farrells right to freedom of speech and that he is entitled to his opinion. She said she is not asking for the sign to be taken down. It would be hypocritical of me to want to exclude a billboard representing others' beliefs, when my goal is inclusion and tolerance, Vaughn said. I am ideologically opposed to the billboard, while also respecting his [Farrells] freedom of speech, as well as the right of others to believe differently. The message you receive from the billboard may not be the same as what someone else receives. Even if their interpretation is different than yours, it doesnt have to mean either of you are wrong. Vaughn said this crowdfunding campaign is her way of putting words into action: Just talking and venting about something is useless if youre not willing to do something about it. I had been mulling it in my mind for several weeks and then I saw the article in the paper The article was definitely the impetus for me starting it. The campaign launched on the same day that an article was published in the Martinsville Bulletin to provide background about Farrell and his billboard. If they want to put up a billboard, thats their business, Farrell said last week. My billboard is not against them, although it makes them feel guilty, and it makes them feel defensive in response to the LGBTQ community. I think they are hell-bent on the wrong thing. Vaughns significant other, Sean Seay, 28, of Fieldale, said he supports her project. I am extremely proud of her for taking the time out of her busy schedule to organize everything and put it together for a good cause, he said. Landon Webb, 33, of Bowling Green, said he supported Vaughns campaign because he feels that marriage is between the people involved. It really isnt that simple though. Hospital visitation, taxes, medical decisions, funeral decisions these are just a few benefits that require marriage. If the $2,000 goal is not met, Vaughn said she has several backup plans. I was thinking either a smaller billboard with a shorter time span, or maybe lawn signs but no matter whats chosen, I think it should definitely be decided by everyone that donated, she said. Vaughn said the campaigns contributors will be asked to vote in a poll in order to determine the final design when the campaign has reached 75% goal. Suggestions for the Gay Pride billboards design include: Virginia is for Lovers with a rainbow theme, God loves ALL his children and Love is Love. Her favorite suggestion so far, she said, is Love Thy Neighbor in rainbow letters. She said a design has not been determined because she did not want to put the buggy before the horse. One of the designs submitted includes Martinsvilles city logo redesigned with the colors of the rainbow, by Tony Davis of Martinsville, co-owner of Luna Moth Tattoo Studio. Vaughn said she wasnt sure if her group could legally use that design. I am ecstatic to see how everything will turn out, Seay said. She has received a lot of great feedback from everyone so far. U.S. Attorney Thomas Cullen on Tuesday sued nearly two dozen coal companies owned by or affiliated with West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice including Roanoke-based Southern Coal Corp. to collect nearly $4 million in unpaid fines for miner-safety violations. The lawsuit seeks an additional $821,386 for administrative costs and interest stemming from 2,297 citations in Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee and Alabama since May 2014, according to a news release issued by federal prosecutors. The 23 companies that were sued violated regulations of the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration and failed to pay civil penalties levied by the government, the release said. The lawsuit is a collection action by the U.S. Department of Justice. As alleged in the complaint, the defendants racked up over 2,000 safety violations over a five-year period and have, to date, refused to comply with their legal obligations to pay the resulting financial penalties," Cullen said in a prepared statement. "This is unacceptable, and, as indicated by this suit, we will hold them accountable. Justice, 68, did not respond to three messages left Tuesday afternoon at his Charleston office seeking his comment on the lawsuit. His spokeswoman was also unavailable. Nor was he available at Southern Coal, which relocated from West Virginia to Roanoke in 2012. The governors son, Jay Justice, told The Roanoke Times at the time that, as its top executive, he wanted Southern Coal in Roanoke because that's where he lived. Southern Coal is described in the suit as the parent company of several of the allegedly delinquent mine operators. But court papers said that 12 of the 23 companies sued operate from 302 S. Jefferson St., the downtown Roanoke office building the Justice organization bought and first occupied in 2012. Government officials have pressured the Justice organization to pay its coal-related debts for years. NPR reported in 2014 that the Justice coal companies owed just under $2 million in mine safety penalties to the government office charged with preventing death, illness and injury from mining. Justice said during his 2016 gubernatorial campaign he would "absolutely" pay the debts, NPR also reported. But the coal enterprises of Justice, a Republican who took office in January 2017, in April owed a combined total that represented "the highest delinquent mine safety debt in the U.S. mining industry," NPR said. Forbes estimated the net worth of Justice at $1.5 billion in 2018. In addition to the mining businesses, some of which he inherited from his father, Justice operates a major agricultural enterprise growing corn, wheat and soybeans. He calls himself the largest farmer east of the Mississippi River. His hospitality interests include The Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. The suit does not specify what the company did to put miners in peril, except to identify case numbers. It says the companies were cited, fined and failed to pay or contest the government actions. Each of the more than 2,000 citation cases is considered final with payment past due, the suit said. A written demand for payment was sent by the Treasury Department, which also hired outside bill collectors, both to no avail, the suit said. At that point, the Justice Department responded with its own demand for payment last fall and, when that failed to produce payment, it sued. The government is asking for nearly $4.8 million plus 8% annual interest, a 10% surcharge and a court order forbidding the companies from violating mining laws in the future. The case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Glen Conrad of the Roanoke federal bench. No court dates have been announced. Governments around the nation are working to design the best vaccine policies that keep both their employees and their residents safe. Although the latest data shows a variety of polarizing perspectives, there are clear emerging best practices that leading governments are following to put trust first: creating policies that are flexible and provide a range of options, and being in tune with the needs and sentiments of their employees so that they are able to be dynamic and accommodate the rapidly changing situation. It's national Teacher Appreciation Week, but you wouldn't know that by talking to teachers in Oregon.Tens of thousands of frustrated teachers will air their grievances at protests across the state Wednesday. But unlike with other teacher walkouts, these educators aren't fighting for higher raises.They're fed up with overcrowded classrooms and a lack of support staff, including school nurses and mental health counselors."Nearly 45% of all reported classes in Oregon have 26 students or more," said John Larson, a high school English teacher and president of the Oregon Education Association.Some classes have 56 or more students, he said.So instead of going to class, many teachers will take unpaid days off work to flood at least six protest sites across the state.The mass exodus of teachers has already forced 25 school districts to close 600 schools Wednesday, Larson said.The biggest district to close, Portland Public Schools, has more than 46,000 students. Two armed students opened fire at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Colorado on Tuesday, killing one schoolmate, in a mass shooting just miles away from Columbine High School.Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock confirmed late Tuesday that eight students had been shot during the bloody attack and one of them had died.The victim was identified as an 18-year-old male, police said, but his name was not released.The suspected shooters, both male students, were taken into custody, Spurlock said during a news conference. One allegedly had a handgun.Deputies responded to the scene within two minutes, just before 2 p.m. local time, and "engaged the suspects," Spurlock said. The shooters fired at two different locations at the school, he said."I believe the quick response of officers helped save lives," Spurlock said. "A quick response eliminates a lot of this issue right off the bat."Police don't believe there are any more suspects. The two in custody were not on "any radars," the sheriff said.Victims were transported to three different area hospitals, including at least two in serious condition. Three had been discharged as of Tuesday evening, according to KCNC-TV, Denver's CBS affiliate.Spurlock said the victims were 15 and older, but did not identify them.STEM School Highlands Ranch runs from kindergarten to 12th grade and serves 1,800 students. It is located about 7.5 miles southeast of Columbine, where gunmen Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold shot and killed 13 people and injured 21 others during a April 20, 1999, massacre.Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said in a statement that he was making all public safety resources available to assist in securing the site and evacuating students."The heart of all Colorado is with the victims & their families," he tweeted.The FBI has taken over the crime scene, Spurlock said. A suspect's car was found in the school parking lot and officials are working to get search warrants for the car and both suspects' houses.Kelley Paulson, the mother of two students at the school, told the news outlet she first heard about the shooting through a text message from a friend who was in the school."She said 'guns, shooting, oh my god, oh my god.' And she could hear them and that's how I first knew," she told KMGH-TV, Denver's ABC affiliate. "The next thing I know, I heard my son, who is calling me because all of the kids who were in middle school ... all immediately ran out of the building."The latest school shooting comes barely a month after a Florida woman "infatuated" with the Columbine school massacre traveled to Colorado, bought a shotgun and leveled a series of threats against Denver-area schools that caused a widespread shutdown. Sol Pais, 18, was found dead with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound before she could follow through with her threats.Exactly a week ago, two students were killed and four were injured in a shooting at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Trystan Andrew Terrell, the accused gunman, was charged with several murder counts, assault with a deadly weapon, gun possession on education property, and discharging a firearm on education property. Public pensions are more invested than ever before in high-risk and expensive assets like real estate and hedge funds. Yet research continues to show that this tactic is unlikely to improvetheir earnings.According to Fitch Ratings , in the span of a decade, pensions tripled their average investment in these so-called alternative investments. In 2007, they averaged 9 percent of state and local public pension investment portfolios. By 2017, that number had risen to 27 percent.During that period, median average returns on overall investments were 6.2 percent, according to Fitch. But during the longer period between 2001 and 2017, reflecting a time of less reliance on alternative investments, they were actually slightly better: 6.4 percent.If you look at trends and allocation to riskier assets and the returns we see alongside them, you clearly see that you cant necessarily say youre getting thebangfor the buck over the last 17 years, says Fitch analyst Olu Sonola, who authored the report.The report adds to the growing body of evidence that alternative investments are not worth the extra cost and risk. In fact, they may be lowering pensions' earnings and costing state and local governments more money.Pensions' average investment returns -- overall, not just on alternatives -- failed to meet expectations between 2001 and 2017, even though those expectations lowered from 8 percent to 7.5 percent.Plans that dont meet expectations require state or local governments to put more money in pension systems. Even high-performing pension systems like Colorado, Oklahoma, Utah and Wisconsin have had to increase their payments or give up being fully funded for this reason.Only South Dakotas retirement system , which is fully funded and relies the least among all 50 states on alternatives and equities, met its own expectations over that time period. Seven states -- Arizona, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey and Rhode Island -- missed theirs by 2 percent or higher, according to Fitch.The reason alternative investments aren't a safe bet, concludes Fitch, is because they tend to be volatile. But others dispute that idea. Andy Palmer, the chief investment officer for Maryland's pension system, says their strategy of investing more in alternatives is torisk and volatility.Before the 2008 financial crisis, nearly 70 percent of the Maryland system's portfolio was invested in stocks -- now it's less than 50 percent. Since then, Maryland has invested more in private equity, real estate and hedge funds."Reducing our risk in U.S. equities in particular and getting return from other sources, we believe, will protect us from those really sharp downturns," says Palmer.The system has also slightly lowered its expected rate of return over the years from 8 percent to 7.45 percent.Palmer points to the average 9.5 percent investment return the system has earned over the last 10 years as of this March. While that exceeded state expectations, it's not as good as some of Maryland's peers. Palmer says thats the result of unfortunate timing: The system shifted away from stocks at a time when the market went gangbusters.But Jeff Hooke, a visiting fellow for the right-leaning Maryland Public Policy Institute who has been critical of pension systems that invest heavily in alternatives, argues the real winners in this larger trend are the Wall Street bankers who make money from the high fees associated with these investments.You can basically replicate all these alternative investment strategies through the public market and save yourself all the fees, Hooke says.Fitchs report backs up Hooke's claim. Passively managed portfolios (which are low-fee and leave Wall Street out of the equation almost entirely), have performed better than the average pension plan over the last 17 years. SPEED READ: Denver voters rejected Initiative 300, dubbed by supporters the "Right to Survive." The ballot measure was the first of its kind. It would have overturned Denver's anti-camping ordinance, which many cities have. On Tuesday, Denver voters were the first in the country to weigh in on whether homeless people should have what supporters say is the "right to survive." They responded with an overwhelmingly no.As of 1 a.m., 83 percent voted against Initiative 300 . The loss means that a citywide ban on camping -- and wearing a blanket in public -- will remain in place, effectively criminalizing homeless people who live in tents and on the streets.Denver's vote came in the wake of a ruling that is making cities and states reevaluate anti-camping ordinances. In September, the 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled that Boise, Idahos policy of issuing citations to people for sleeping on the street if they have nowhere else to go was "cruel and unusual punishment." The decision had a ripple effect across the West. Olympia, Wash.; Portland, Ore.; San Francisco; and Sacramento, Calif., have all ceased enforcing their anti-camping laws.At the state level, legislators in California, Oregon and Colorado have tried and failed to pass "right to rest" bills that would override local laws that effectively criminalize homelessness,reported.Supporters of those bills hoped Denver's vote would inspire other cities to hold their own. "We hopefully may not have to run another statewide initiative," Colorado state Rep. Jovan Melton toldbefore the vote. "We may be able to go just city by city to deal with this." But the overwhelming failure of the measure may hamper efforts elsewhere.The controversial camping ban even causes fractures among homeless advocates.The city's agency that works to reduce homelessness supported keeping the ban in place. Its director, Chris Conner, argued that eliminating the banwould cut some homeless people off from services they need. Under the ban, police are required to connect homeless people they encounter with social services. They only issue a ticket or make an arrest if the person refuses services or refuses to move.But Denver Homeless Out Loud, which gathered the signatures to put Initiative 300 on the ballot, objected to the idea that the ban reduces homelessness. It merely moves homeless people out of sight and out of mind."When people are seen, there isnt this illusion that you can just push them out of homelessness," Terese Howard of Denver Homeless Out Loud told Colorado Public Radio.The citys business community threw its support behind the ban, contributing more than $2 million to the campaign to keep it in place. That dwarfed the amount of money raised by supporters of overturning the ban: As of mid-April, backers of Initiative 300 had collected just $54,000 in campaign contributions.Advocates of Initiative 300 argued that overturning camping bans forces cities to focus on finding actual solutions to homelessness. Most cities don't have enough beds to shelter their homeless population. San Francisco, for example, can only accommodate less than 60 percent of its chronically homeless. And many can't or don't want to go to shelters because their rules don't allow people who are drunk or high and don't allow people to take their pets or stay with their significant others."Our end goal isnt to protect the right of homeless people to sleep on the streets. Thats not a real win for them or for us," Eric Tars, legal director for the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, told. "We win ... when homeless people arent homeless but in housing." A Brief History Are Governors Too Moderate? What About Mayors Running for President? Montana Gov. Steve Bullock joined the already jammed Democratic field for president on Monday, following Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington and former Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, among many other candidates.Perhaps Bullock can boost the share of support that governors are taking in early polls. Inslee and Hickenlooper are averaging a meager 1 percent -- combined.Governors were once a dominant force in presidential politics, winning seven of the eight elections between 1976 and 2004. Those days appear to be over. In 2016, no fewer than 10 current or former governors ran for president. None of them came close to winning a major-party nomination, although Republican Donald Trump did pick Indiana Gov. Mike Pence as his running mate and vice president.This year, the Democratic field is dominated by senators, while governors are at the back of the pack. (On the Republican side, former Massachusetts Gov. Bill Weld, the Libertarian nominee for vice president in 2016, is running as an anti-Trump protest candidate. But his campaign has been a non-starter.)Being a governor aint what it used to be in running for the White House, says Saladin Ambar, author ofHistorically, Ambar notes, governors fared well in national politics when voters were fed up with Washington. Yet the public's trust in the federal government is near an all-time low, and governors are still failing to gain any traction.In choosing Trump, Americans went for the ultimate outsider, someone with zero government experience, says Ambar, a political scientist at Rutgers University. Governors shtick, if you will, has been usurped.Democrat Barack Obama lowered the bar for running with limited experience, winning the presidency during his first U.S. Senate term. Despite serving away from Washington, governors often have more experience and longer records than many of the senators who are running. Before his two terms as governor, Hickenlooper served eight years as Denver mayor, while Inslee spent more time in Congress than Sens. Kamala Harris, Cory Booker and Elizabeth Warren combined.The current media landscape is another handicap for governors. Voters may not like Washington, but social media and cable television have become obsessively focused on the nations capital, leaving governors largely out of the conversation. Governors don't get to grill cabinet secretaries or Supreme Court nominees during nationally televised hearings.A reason for greater prominence of the senators is the platform provided to them by virtue of serving in Washington, says Barry Burden, director of the Elections Research Center at the University of Wisconsin. With so much of the political establishment and journalistic industry focused on Trumps every action, senators who are pointed to be the immediate responders are better positioned to get noticed.In 1876, Rutherford B. Hayes became the first sitting governor elected to the White House, succeeding the scandal-plagued administration of Ulysses S. Grant. Throughout industrialization and the progressive movement, voters turned to governors with clean hands, says Ambar, seeing them as reformers who could change the culture in Washington. Those included Grover Cleveland, Woodrow Wilson and the two Roosevelts.During much of the Cold War, Americans wanted presidents who offered foreign policy experience, turning to former Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower and a series of D.C. veterans, including John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon.All that changed after Watergate. From the election of Jimmy Carter in 1976 through George W. Bush in 2000, with Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton in between, four out of five presidents had served as governor.The period after Watergate, post-Vietnam, was about people laying claim that they could do something about the mess after Washington, Ambar says.Then in 2008, Obama became the first sitting senator elected president since Kennedy in 1960. Obama beat John McCain, another senator, that year, and defeated former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney in 2012.In 2016, Republican governors like Scott Walker and Chris Christie, who presented themselves as blustery outsiders, proved no match for Trumps ultimate outsider appeal.Governors are running on executive experience, says Dennis Goldford, a close observer of the Iowa caucuses at Drake University. You can argue Trump shows we dont need it. That opens up the field.Even in todays polarized era, governors as a group are less ideological than senators. The nature of their job forces them to concentrate on nuts-and-bolts governance -- building roads and improving schools. They dont breathe the type of partisan fire that attracts attention in a field with nearly two dozen candidates.In an earlier, less partisan era, one advantage that governors had when they ran for president is that their office allowed them to be moderates, says Thad Kousser, who chairs the political science department at the University of California, San Diego. Chief executives can make their own politics in a state, position themselves between and thus above the parties, and avoid being pulled into Washington's partisan maelstrom. Today, it seems that being at the center of that storm is instead where the advantage is.Inslee has carved out a role for himself by making climate change the overarching focus of his campaign. So far, at least, thats just a niche. Climate typically ranks far behind other issues, such as health, the economy and immigration, as a top-of-mind concern for voters.Appealing to moderates has served the other governors in the 2020 race no better. Bullock has been touting his success in winning office in a rural state and getting bills passed by a Republican legislature. Its not clear, however, that Democratic primary voters are yearning for someone to take a collaborative approach with the national GOP.Last week, Hickenlooper wrote an article in The Wall Street Journal stating that he is running to save capitalism, saying he rejects the idea we can improve health care by turning it entirely over to the government. Those are not rousing slogans in a party that is considering ways to make Medicare universal and provide free or debt-free college tuition.Republican Gov. Larry Hogans criticisms of Trump have helped keep his approval ratings high in the blue state of Maryland, but theyre unlikely to gain him any real traction among Republican primary voters -- roughly 90 percent of whom approve of Trumps performance -- if he makes good on his occasional talk about entering the race.Senators more extreme stances are a boon, rather than an obstacle -- at least in the presidential primary, Kousser says. Governors might have the best chance of winning in November but not be able to make it past Super Tuesday.None of the governors running this time around come from big electoral states. But even Montana has more residents than South Bend, Ind. -- the 301st largest city in the country and home base of Mayor Pete Buttigieg, the current occupant of the cover of Time . The previously unknown Democrat has enjoyed a boom, polling as high as third place in the early primary states, behind former Vice President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders.There is no better training ground for a higher-level executive position than being mayor, says Annise Parker, a former mayor of Houston.The job of mayor has traditionally not been a stepping stone to the presidency. No mayor has ever been elected president directly, and only three former mayors -- Andrew Johnson, Grover Cleveland and Calvin Coolidge -- have ever made it to the White House. The presidential runs of former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani in 2008 and his predecessor John V. Lindsay in 1972 both fizzled quickly.The imminent presidential announcement of current New York Mayor Bill de Blasio is being greeted with more derision than excitement. Mayors Eric Garcetti of Los Angeles and Mitch Landrieu of New Orleans both pulled the plug on their presidential runs before they were officially begun.Buttigiegs success may prove as fleeting as it is surprising. But his emergence from the large field demonstrates something important: Its too early to count any of the governors out. With more than 20 candidates in the Democratic field, a sudden rise to single-digit support will be treated like real momentum.Dont write them off just yet, says Larry Sabato, director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia. Theres a chance one will catch fire. Weve got a long way to go, and surely some of the governors will get moments to shine. Assemblyman Tyrone Thompson, a champion for education and homelessness initiatives, died Saturday morning in Carson City. The North Las Vegas lawmaker took ill in the capital midweek. He was 51.No cause of death has been released. Thompson was at work in the Legislature on Wednesday, testifying in committee and appearing on the floor. He did not appear in committees on Thursday and was excused from session on Friday. His sudden death shocked colleagues in the Legislature and others who had worked with him over more than 25 years of public and community service.We are deeply saddened by Assemblyman Thompsons sudden passing, Assembly Speaker Jason Frierson, D-Las Vegas, said in a statement released early Saturday. He was well respected by his colleagues in the Legislature for his dedication and leadership. His warm smile and larger-than-life presence will truly be missed in our Assembly chamber. We ask that you respect the privacy of his family at this difficult time.Gov. Steve Sisolak said that he will be ordering the flags to half-staff to honor Thompson.I am heartbroken by the unexpected passing of Assemblyman Thompson, Sisolak said in a statement. He spent his career in service to others, and dedicated his life to lifting up and protecting the most vulnerable in our community. They say that no man stands so tall as when he stoops to help another, and Assemblyman Thompson stood larger-than-life because of his selfless service to his fellow Nevadans.Thompson was appointed to the 17th District seat from North Las Vegas in 2013 and was serving his third elected term. He was chairman of the Assembly Education committee. The Democratic Assembly caucus said he had worked on legislation to improve educational opportunities for students and services at state-funded family resource centers, expand access to HIV testing, and end employment discrimination against those with criminal records. In Utah, marijuana revved up voter interest last year, and new election policies made it easier for people to cast their ballots, leading to the nations biggest jump in midterm turnout.Around the country, state efforts to widen ballot access and Trump-era political passion spurred more voters to the polls in November than the last midterm elections in 2014. Nationally, 53% of the citizen voting-age population voted in 2018, a 12-point bump from the previous midterms, according to new U.S. Census Bureau estimates.The increases ranged from 21 points in Utah, where about 58% of voting-age citizens voted, down to Colorado, where there was little change. Turnout already was high in Colorado at 59%, partly because the state was a pioneer in expanding ballot access.Georgia (13 points) and California (15 points) saw big improvements with similar programs, such as automatic voter registration.States with more restrictive voting policies didnt always see the same results. While turnout increased in New York and Texas, both of which still require early registration, they remained in the bottom 10 among states, with turnout below 50% of citizens despite some hot races.Utahs turnout vaulted from 45th in the nation in 2014 to 13th in 2018, the first year all counties used both same-day registration and vote-at-home options. The state also allows residents to enroll in automatic voter registration when they get new drivers licenses.The legislature has always passed the policies that take away barriers to voting, balanced with measures to make sure people are who they say they are, said Justin Lee, Utahs director of elections.Utahs turnout rose from about 37% of citizens in 2014, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates released in April.The biggest vote-getter in Utah was a medical marijuana initiative, which got more than a million votes and passed by a close margin.That issue, along with ballot initiatives on independent redistricting and Medicaid expansion, gave millennials a reason to vote, and nonprofits reached out to them throughout the year in registration drives, said Chase Thomas, executive director of the Alliance for a Better Utah, a nonprofit watchdog group.These issues really energized the left-leaning segment of our electorate in Salt Lake County and other parts of the state that has felt their vote didnt really matter before because of the extreme conservative bent, Thomas said.The marijuana bill boosted turnout in Democratic-leaning Salt Lake County, where the proposition was popular, but also in more conservative Utah County, where voters opposed it, Lee said. The medical marijuana measure passed with about 53% of the vote (the state legislature has since replaced it with a new law, a move now being challenged in state court).I think the issues had a lot to do with it, Lee said, and then the policies facilitated that turnout.Experts disagree on how much turnout depends on state voter access policies. Arizona, New Jersey and Missouri saw big boosts without changing voting rules, as tight House and Senate races brought more people to the polls.Its just as easy to argue that states that had high turnout rates were more likely to value political participation, and thus enacted more liberalized registration laws, said Charles Stewart III, a political science professor who studies turnout issues at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.But voting rights advocates see opportunities for more voting in states as politically different as Texas and New York.Since the 2018 midterm elections, New York has enacted laws to allow early voting and other policies such as pre-registration for 17-year-olds.A March report by Nonprofit VOTE, a coalition of state and national nonprofits advocating for easier ballot access, argued that Texas would improve its turnout with same-day registration. The Texas U.S. Senate race pitting Democratic U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke against incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz was the states closest Senate race since 1978 and drew national attention.Texas, in spite of having one the nations closest, most watched, and most expensive U.S. Senate elections, still ranked among the bottom 10 in turnout thanks in part to a registration deadline four weeks before Election Day, the report stated. Texas turnout was 48.4% in 2018. On average, the 15 states with same-day registration had higher turnout, 56%, while others averaged 49%, according to the report.However, Myrna Perez, deputy director of the democracy program at the Brennan Center for Justice, said a roughly 30-day registration deadline before elections is typical for the 35 states that still didnt have same-day registration. The deadline is 30 days in Texas and 25 days in New York.Perez was more critical of Texas photo ID requirement for voting. Texas does first make it harder to register, then youre hit with a voter ID law, Perez said.Sam Taylor, communications director for the Texas secretary of states office, said the state has set aside $4 million for grassroots outreach programs to encourage more voter registration, and that voters without photo ID can vote if they fill out a form at the polls. Almost 10,000 of those forms were used in the 2018 elections, he said.I dont think anybody who showed up wanting to vote was unable to do that, Taylor said. It was the second-highest number of votes in state history the highest was 2016. We saw a turnout like we usually see in a presidential election.Another red state where passion and policy played a role in boosting turnout last year was Georgia. Under the states exact match policy, enacted in 2017, election officials can suspend or purge voters from the rolls if a name doesnt precisely match state drivers license and social security records.Even trivial typos, such as a missing hyphen in a last name, can trigger the law, and a disproportionate number of the affected voters were African Americans. Nevertheless, Georgia saw a big lift in overall turnout, partly because of automatic voter registration.Georgia had a nearly 13 point increase over 2014 midterms to 56% turnout, the census estimates showed, propelling the state from 27th place to 17th. That reflected high interest in the governors race, a squeaker that Republican Brian Kemp won over Democrat Stacey Abrams by less than 1 percentage point.Automatic voter registration, a policy at least partly adopted in 18 states, had an outsized effect on Georgia, where new voter registrations nearly doubled after it took effect, according to an April report from the Brennan Center for Justice, a watchdog group that favors expanded ballot access.Georgia in 2016 began automatically registering anyone who got or renewed a drivers license. Colorado did so the next year, and the Brennan Center considers Connecticut, New Mexico and Utah to be very close but not fully automatic. Applicants in those states must choose to register, rather than opting out if they choose not to register.Georgia Elections Director Chris Harvey said that automated registration coupled with online registration helped lead to almost 340,000 new voters in 2018 and a record 7 million active voters on the rolls.Republican-leaning states such as Montana, Wyoming, New Hampshire and North Carolina already have joined Utah and liberal-leaning Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota and Vermont in enacting same-day registration.Its not as cut and dry as liberal states doing one thing, said Brian Miller, director of Nonprofit VOTE. Political: make sure state leadership is on board with and understands that the investment to transition to a model of procurement and contracting is worthwhile make sure state leadership is on board with and understands that the investment to transition to a model of procurement and contracting is worthwhile Marketing: understand that the market for government services moves much more quickly than it once did and how to react accordingly understand that the market for government services moves much more quickly than it once did and how to react accordingly Customers: acknowledge that citizens now expect government to work more like Amazon than their traditional DMV acknowledge that citizens now expect government to work more like Amazon than their traditional DMV Staff: ensure that IT talent is prepared for where the state is headed NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. Much has been said in recent years about the way the role of the government CIO has evolved from simply the IT director, who keeps PCs running and networks online, to a real leadership position, someone with a seat at the table. Nowhere was that more apparent than the second day of the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO) Midyear conference Tuesday.In two main sessions, state CIOs covered two topics that on the surface seem somewhat incongruent: the logistics of transitioning from long-standing single-vendor operations to multi-source systems; and soft skills, qualities that may be harder to teach but are immeasurably useful for anyone looking to drive widespread government change.The model of CIO as a services broker was the focus for North Carolina CIO Eric Boyette , who identified four forces IT leaders must reckon with as they move from one large vendor for services into a multi-supplier model:Its not an easy move to make, said Virginia CIO Nelson Moe : Sometimes all youve got is a little courage and perseverance in order to be able to provide the best services at the right price in an adaptable format. Moe said to expect a lot of hard work and growing pains; he suggested strategic timing of service migration, rather than making many big moves all at once, calling multi-source integration a built-to-adapt model. He echoed Boyettes advice to make sure executive leadership and the legislature are on board and understand why the IT office is taking risks in transformation.Communication early and often with leadership was similar advice offered by Indiana CIO Dewand Neely in a later panel discussion on five traits key to a successful CIO: emotional intelligence, integrative skills, political savvy, relentless curiosity and a unifying vision.Coming from a strong IT background, Neely said, he has had to make an extra effort to not appear heavily technical, because getting cabinet members and legislators on board with IT efforts is key to generating enterprise change, and those leaders will likely not be familiar with the nuts and bolts of the CIOs office.While Neely characterized his best trait as political savvy, Utah CIO Mike Hussey credited his innate and persistent curiosity as his most valuable asset. He wants to know what makes things tick and also recommends leaders lift their gaze.Its easy to get bogged down in the most immediate tasks that were not seeing the art of possible, Hussey said. Its likely an attitude that keeps Utah on the leading edge of state technology efforts, like artificial intelligence and blockchain, among others.Further evidence of that leadership came when the 2019 NASCIO Technology Champion Award went to Utah Gov. Gary Herbert. In remarks delivered by Hussey, Herbert credited the states IT team with being out ahead of many other states, a place to look to for what is possible in state government.All of what state CIOs at the conference do is ultimately targeted at improving the lives of state residents. Or as NASCIO President and Delaware CIO James Collins put it, speaking of the impact IT has on issues such as the opioid epidemic and facilitating health and human services, technology not only improves the lives of the citizens in our state, but in many instances it saves lives. Code for America, a nonprofit and nonpartisan civic tech organization with satellite brigades across the country, will hold its annual summit May 29 through May 31 in Oakland, Calif.The group has released its list of international mainstage speakers who will explore what is and isnt working with gov tech based on their experiences. A wide range of public servants, policy experts, civic leaders, designers and journalists are expected to attend.Mainstage speakers include Alex Stamos, the former chief security officer of Facebook; Bruce Schneier, a special advisor for IBM Security, and a fellow and lecturer at the Harvard Kennedy School; Aaron Snow, CEO of the Canadian Digital Service; Daniel Abadie, Argentinas undersecretary in the digital government cabinet office; Marina Nitze, a public interest technology fellow at New America; Vivian Graubard, director for strategy for public interest technology at New America; Evonne Silva, the senior program director of criminal justice and workforce development with Code for America; Jennifer Pahlka, Code for Americas founder and executive director; Michelle Thong, digital services lead for San Jose; Kate Lydon, IDEO senior portfolio director; Kavi Karshawat, GoodCTZN co-founder; Mariel Reed, CoProcure co-founder and CEO; Earlonne Woods, Ear Hustle podcast co-creator and co-host; Nigel Poor, Ear Hustle podcast co-creator and co-host; and Sarita Gupta, Caring Across Generations co-founder and co-executive director.CfA was founded in 2009 by executive director Jennifer Pahlka to help government find new and better ways to adopt advanced technology by using less cumbersome software development techniques, such as agile. Most recently, the group has been working with a number of jurisdictions to create an automated process for clearing eligible convictions under California's marijuana legalization laws.More information about the Code for America Summit can be found here A list of the event's full slate of speakers can be found here. (TNS) Robert Huff stood in front of his grandparents' heavily damaged residence on Tuesday, his eyes reflecting the tiredness and frustration resulting from ongoing efforts to clean up in the wake of the tornado that struck Haileyville and portions of rural Pittsburg County on April 30.The Huff home is in the rural Lone Oak area north of Hartshorne, off Woodlawn Drive. A number of homes in the area along Woodlawn Drive and Spears Lane sustained major damage, leaving some of them uninhabitable. Damaged residences ranged from wooden structures to mobile homes along with some stone and brick houses.Huge trees lay strewn around the area like huge matchsticks, some completely uprooted and others snapped in two. The tops of other trees had obviously twisted off when struck by rotating winds.Some plowed into houses. At one residence, a large tree is still atop a compact car it smashed into when it fell over.At the Huff residence, Robert Huff told McAlester/Pittsburg County Office of Emergency Management Director Kevin Enloe that no one has been able to live in the residence since the storm hit last week."I'm sorry," Enloe said.Enloe asked Huff if there was anything he needed."You might help us put in a roll-in," Huff said, referring to a large metal trash bin, the kind that's left on a property and can be picked up later.Enloe said he would see what he could do, then the group moved on to the next damaged house.The Huff home was one of many heavily damaged residences checked out by a special Preliminary Damage Assessment Team that traveled to the Hartshorne-Haileyville area on Tuesday to get an in-person look at the damage resulting from the April 30 tornado.They included representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Administration and Small Business Administration, the Oklahoma Office of Emergency Management and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. They were joined by the county Office of Emergency Management, as well as Haileyville police and fire personnel.Team members were surveying the storm damage to see as much of it firsthand as possible. Damage reports will then be compiled to see if the county will qualify to access federal and state disaster funds. The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma is also working to help tribal members whose homes were damaged by the EF-2 tornado.FEMA Individual Assistance Specialist Garry Sitze and Oklahoma Office of Emergency Management IAS member Rhlonsa Carey are part of the team. They were joined by Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Deputy Director of Emergency Response Rachel Nutter, who noted that a number of the damaged or destroyed homes are owned by tribal members."We're determining the extent of the damages," Sitze said. Some considerations in designating major damage includes determining whether more than 50 percent of a structure was damaged, if repairs would take more than 30 days, or if the damage was more cosmetic in nature.Federal SBA representative Ahmed Hossain also participated in the tour of storm-damaged homes structures.The SBA can help more than small businesses. Hossain assessed damages to homes and nonprofit organizations as well all of which could qualify for federal assistance if a federal disaster designation is granted.Although some team members have been in the area several times following the April 30 storm, Tuesday marked the first time all them toured the hard-hit areas together.One of the first residences checked out Tuesday was the Howard O'Daniel home, also on Woodlawn Drive. O'Daniel, who is a former Emergency Management director, said there was some damage to his front porch and the front of the residence and that he lost a small barn in the back.The group also stopped at the Nelson property on Woodlawn Drive. At one residence, Jay Nelson lives in a mobile home with his father, Pete Nelson, and sister, Vicki Barone.Jay Nelson said he felt the tornado lift up the mobile home, but he thinks the home was saved by the last two ties attached to the structure. He said seeing people wanting to help in the wake of the storm is moving."The response from the community and the area has been fantastic," Jay Nelson said. "People come by and stop to help. We're alive and OK.""It's overwhelming," Vicki Barone said, thanking every team member who had stopped by the home. "We're so grateful just to survive it."The News-Capital also spoke later with Huff, who said he's been cleaning up every day since the tornado occurred on the night of April 30."There's no electricity, no water," he said. "The house was lifted up off its foundation and the roof's caved in."Huff said he had been in his room at the residence, owned by his grandparents, Earnest and Joan Huff, when he heard the wind rapidly picking up on the night of April 30. He looked out the window and saw trees whipping over, Huff said."It sounded like ice on the roof," he said. Huff said he headed toward the kitchen."The house started shaking," he said. "It blew out all the windows and part of the roof caved in." In addition to his grandparents, his cousin and aunt also lived in the home, he said.For now, they are staying with other family members, Huff said.After completing the storm damage survey along Woodlawn Drive and Spears Lane in the Lone Oak area, the group planned to assess damage in Haileyville and points south. More damage was reported along Collins Road, Ray Road and on a portion of State Highway 63 to the west.When it's all completed, team members will pool their results."We will have a meeting when we will determine whether this is a federal disaster," said Enloe.Contact James Beaty at jbeaty@mcalesternews.com___(c)2019 the McAlester News-Capital (McAlester, Okla.)Visit the McAlester News-Capital (McAlester, Okla.) at mcalesternews.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. (TNS) Electric scooters could soon be available to rent in Lexington, Ky.,, but the orange Spin bicycles, which launched in June 2018, will be gone by July 1.A committee of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve changes to a city ordinance that would allow up to five companies to provide shared-use mobility vehicles, such as electric scooters or electric bikes, in Kentuckys second-largest city. Under the proposed changes, companies would be limited in the beginning to 400 vehicles per company.The proposed ordinance will now go to the full council for approval, likely at a meeting next month. The proposal, though, will likely get more tweaks before a final vote.Shared-used companies would have to purchase a $5,000 annual permit and pay a 25 cent per trip fee to the city, which would give half of that amount to UK. The companies would have to provide areas where scooters and bikes must be parked. Each company must also have a plan to redistribute bikes and scooters and must have a local manager.The city and the University of Kentucky launched a pilot bike-share program using one provider Spin in June 2018 . That pilot project was launched city-wide. The bikes can be rented and unlocked by downloading an app on most smart phones. Electric scooters operate the same way.Two months after the Spin pilot began, companies such as Bird and Lime began dropping electric scooters in other cities without notice, causing scooter pile ups on sidewalks and headaches for cities that had no ordinances prohibiting or regulating shared-use vehicles.Scott Thompson, bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for the area Metropolitan Planning Organization, told the council committee Tuesday that the group overseeing the pilot program quickly realized it must change city ordinances to address electric scooters and electric bikes.The ordinance would prohibit scooters from being on sidewalks, unless a rider is leaving an area where the bike or electric scooter was parked. The scooters must be operated in bike lanes or shared use paths or streets, according to the ordinance.No company without a permit can operate in the city, Thompson said.If a scooter is left somewhere it is not allowed, the company has two hours to pick up the scooter or face a $500 a fine, according to the ordinance.More than 50 percent of the Spin bicycle trips were on or near the UK Campus. Thats why UK would receive 50 percent of the per ride fee, Thompson said.Spin will pull out of Lexington on July 1, he said. Thompson said the market is moving toward electric scooters and electric bikes and moving away from pedal bikes. Spin wanted to bring electric scooters to Lexington a few months after it brought pedal bikes but the city denied that request until the changes to city ordinances were completed.There are companies that do have all three, Thompson said.The rapid proliferation of electric scooters in cities across the world has raised questions about safety. A February Consumer Reports investigation found at least 1,500 scooter injuries since 2017 in 47 cities where rental scooters are available. For example, Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville, Tenn., reported at least 250 people with injuries during that time period.A May study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Austin, Texas, public health department found the most serious injuries related to scooters were head injuries. Fewer than one percent of the people in the study of Austin emergency room visits were wearing a helmet.In California, two people died in electric scooter-related accidents in one week in March , prompting calls in that state for stricter regulations.Paris recently banned scooters from sidewalks in part due to the rise in accidents Councilwoman Susan Lamb said she was recently in Nashville and said she was very concerned about safety. Lamb questioned if there would be speed limits for scooters or a requirement that riders wear helmets.We have set it at 15 miles per hour, Thompson said. State law also says riders must be 16 years old to rent an electric scooter or bicycle.Kentucky does not have a helmet law for bikes or motorcycles, Thompson said. But Thompson said the 25 cent per trip fee could be used for public safety campaigns encouraging helmet use. Thompson said the companies would also be encouraged to produce public safety campaigns. For example, Spin encourages users to use a helmet via their app when people unlock the bikes, he said.Councilman Preston Worley said he had concerns about allowing UK to take half of the fees. Worley said he would like to see that changed to up to 50 percent of the fees if data shows those trips are generated to and from UK.The council will also look at other changes in June. Lexpark, the citys parking authority, would likely be the agency enforcing the prohibition of electric scooters on sidewalks, but the Lexpark board has not yet approved that change.There is interest in the Lexington market, Thompson told the committee. A representative from Lime bikes told the committee Tuesday they are interested in coming to Lexington. In all, there are 13 shared-mobility companies in the country, he said. (TNS) A group of business leaders and elected officials gathered in Minnesota Tuesday to support the proposed B Line rapid bus project, which could connect uptown Minneapolis to downtown St. Paul.The B Line is a very smart investment, said Ecolab Corp. Chairman and CEO Doug Baker, during a news conference Tuesday. It will speed up transit greatly.Efficient and reliable public transit will help the St. Paul-based company, one of the largest employers downtown, attract and retain employees, he added.The $54 million B Line would operate on what is now the Route 21 local bus corridor, which mostly travels along Lake Street in Minneapolis and Marshall Avenue in St. Paul to the citys Midway area. However, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter and other transit advocates support extending the B Lines reach to downtown.The B Line may replace the Route 21, the second-busiest route in Metro Transits system and one of the slowest buses providing passengers with about 10,000 rides a day. Construction is expected to begin in 2020; Metro Transit has not said when passenger service will begin. To date, $16 million in funding from the federal government and the Metropolitan Council has been identified to help build the B Line.Metro Transit has pitched an aggressive expansion of the rapid bus system, building on the success of the A Line rapid bus that debuted in 2016. It connects the Blue Lines 46th Street station in Minneapolis to Rosedale Center mall in Roseville. Ridership along the Snelling Avenue corridor has increased by more than 30% since the A line began service.Rapid bus service is touted as faster and more reliable because it features limited stops and more frequent service. Passengers pay before they board, much like light rail, and heated stations feature real-time schedule information.The Twin Cities second rapid bus, the C Line, is slated to begin passenger service later this year, serving north Minneapolis and the northern suburbs. The Met Council has asked state lawmakers this session for funds to help build the $75 million D Line, which will largely replace the Route 5 local bus, the busiest transit thoroughfare in the state. The innovation team in Kansas City, Mo., will be led by another Army veteran. Alex Braszko, a former lieutenant colonel who specialized in understanding and analyzing big data, has been named the citys new chief innovation officer.Braszko replaces Bob Bennett , who now chairs the Cities Today Institute, an imprint ofmagazine, which focuses on best practices for sustainable urban development. Bennett, who served as innovation chief in Kansas City since 2015, is also the principal and founder of B Squared Civic Solutions, a smart cities consulting firm. Bennett came to the role after a career in the U.S. Army.Braszko started in his new position about a week ago.I had the good fortune of shadowing with Bob, and going through the transition with him, Braszko remarked.Braszko credits his long background in working in innovation in various military settings as a foundation for leading the innovation department in Kansas City. Just prior to speaking with, he met with the police and fire departments to discuss technology needs in public safety.Its integrating tech and innovation into processes we have here at city hall, and thats something I have a background with in the military, Braszko said. So its strategy, understanding the creation of strategy And then actually, implantation of those strategies, at kind of the tactical level.Braszko has logged more than 21 years with the U.S. Army, working in areas like military intelligence and space operations. He moved into the Kansas City innovation role through the Veterans Local Government Fellowship Program, a four-month program designed to transition service members into new civilian jobs. The fellowship is now complete and Braszko is officially the citys chief innovation officer.Kansas City has become a national leader in the development of smart city applications. Bennett was known to frequently boast that downtown is the smartest 54 blocks in the United States, with its bevy of sensors, informational kiosks and other devices to collect and analyze data related to transportation, parking, weather and more. Those efforts are in the process of a wider expansion to other parts of the city. For his part, Braszko looks forward to continuing that work.Youve kind of got the best of both worlds, said Braszko. Theres a lot of great things taking place within the city. Kansas City is a forward-thinking, cutting-edge environment, which is great. NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. The state of Utah is well-known for innovation. It was one of the first to deploy an Alexa app to help new drivers practice for their driving test, the first (as far as we know) to pass legislation allowing autonomous vehicles to operate sans drivers and its one of several states with a central cybersecurity command center . So it should come as no surprise that it is looking to the next big innovation.According to CIO Mike Hussey , the state is actively pursuing blockchain to better manage the vehicle registration process. Now in the early stages of the conversation, the overall process seems like the perfect fit for the technology. Hussey said rather than relying on pieces of paper, blockchain would offer a clear record of vehicle ownership and potentially save the state millions of dollars.In a similar vein, artificial intelligence and facial recognition could soon help the state weed out identity theft and drivers license fraud. As Hussey explains below, the tools could be used to compare older license photos to catch cases of fraud. While the idea is still in its infancy, the CIO says the technology could be a valid replacement for a process that now requires staff time and energy for side-by-side comparisons. (TNS) San Francisco could become the first city in the nation to ban any city department from using facial recognition under a proposal that says any benefits of the technology outweigh its impact on civil rights, and Oakland, Calif., may not be far behind.In San Francisco, a Board of Supervisors committee is scheduled to vote Monday on the Stop Secret Surveillance Ordinance, which would make it illegal for any department to obtain, retain, access or use any face-recognition technology or information obtained from such technology.The proposal, introduced by San Francisco Supervisor Aaron Peskin in January, would also require public input and the supervisors approval before agencies buy surveillance technology with public funds. That includes the purchase of license plate readers, toll readers, closed-circuit cameras, body cams, and biometrics technology and software for forecasting criminal activity.The propensity for facial recognition technology to endanger civil rights and civil liberties substantially outweighs its purported benefits, and the technology will exacerbate racial injustice and threaten our ability to live free of continuous government monitoring, the ordinance reads.Other Bay Area cities and counties, including Berkeley , Palo Alto and Santa Clara County , have similar rules in place about buying surveillance tech, but a San Francisco ban on facial recognition would set a precedent. In Oakland, a proposal to add a ban on facial recognition to city regulations about surveillance tech is set to be considered by Oaklands Public Safety Committee later this month.Brian Hofer, the chairman of the Oakland Privacy Advisory Commission who has helped draft ordinances around the Bay Area, said as far as he knows, facial recognition isnt being used by police in the area.Thats the reason were trying to prevent that now, said Hofer, who has filed suit against the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Department, the San Jose Police Department and others after he said he was pulled over last year and handcuffed, with guns pointed at him when a license plate reader mistakenly identified the rental car he was driving as stolen. The genies not out of the bottle yet.But the ACLU, which also helped draft the ordinances, pointed out that deploying facial recognition would be easy enough.The raw materials for face surveillance data such as mugshots and video feeds from CCTV and body cams already exist, said Matt Cagle, technology and civil liberties attorney with the ACLU of Northern California. With just a few lines of code, existing photo systems can be turned into dangerous dragnet surveillance networks.The proposed ordinances come after high-profile examples of the pitfalls of facial recognition, including a report last year that Amazons Rekognition software falsely matched the faces of members of Congress with mugshots of people who had been arrested.The San Francisco Police Department, which said it doesnt use facial recognition, submitted amendments to the ordinance after talking with other city departments, community groups, neighborhood watch groups and businesses.(Our) mission must be judiciously balanced with the need to protect civil rights and civil liberties, including privacy and free expression, said David Stevenson, spokesman for the San Francisco Police Department. We welcome safeguards to protect those rights while balancing the needs that protect the residents, visitors and businesses of San Francisco.Lee Hepner, legislative aide to Peskin, said the supervisors office incorporated some of the SFPDs requests into the ordinance. If it is approved in committee Monday, the full board will vote May 14.Over time, this will build a lot of trust among the community and the police, he said. Hopefully in the end it will be a win-win.San Francisco Sheriffs Department spokeswoman Nancy Crowley said her department does not use facial recognition. She added that most of the agencys work is in non-public spaces, but that if the ordinance is passed we will comply with the requirements that impact our work.The Oakland Police Department did not return a request for comment.Color of Change, a national nonprofit racial justice advocacy group founded in Oakland, supports both ordinances.This is an important moment for San Francisco, said Brandi Collins-Dexter, senior campaign director for the group. She said the city is positioned to really protect its constituents and could influence others around the nation.In a letter urging supervisors to pass the ordinance, Color of Change expressed concern about high-tech profiling. The group cited a 2009 incident in which multiple San Francisco police officers pointed their guns at a black woman who was pulled over based on mistaken information from a license plate reader that the car she was driving was stolen. The woman, Denise Green, a former Muni driver, settled her lawsuit against San Francisco in 2015 for $495,000.Nowadays, Collins-Dexter said, police have access to technologies the likes of which weve never seen.AI experts in April urged Amazon to stop selling facial recognition software to law enforcement until safeguards and laws are put into place (Its technology is now being tested by police in Oregon ). Amazon shareholders are scheduled to vote later this month on a shareholder resolution urging Amazon to stop selling Rekognition to government.The companies that make the technologies have also called for limits and regulations: Microsoft late last year called for regulating artificial intelligence, and Amazon followed suit earlier this year.In addition, the Partnership on AI whose members include Facebook, Google, Amazon.com, Apple, Microsoft, IBM and academic researchers last week said law enforcement should not use artificial intelligence algorithms to make decisions about jailing people.Meanwhile, some Bay Area law enforcement agencies have been using predictive policing technology , including Santa Cruz and the University of California, Berkeley. Others, such as Mountain View and Palo Altos police departments, tried such technology but decided not to continue its use. Jerry Michael (Mike) Sharr, 65, of Grand Coulee, Washington, passed away Thursday, April 25, 2019, from an aggressive cancer. Mike was born Sunday, December 6, 1953, in Eugene, Oregon to Harry Blaine and Amanda Joan Sharr. At age 17, Mike joined the US Army and served his country with pride. "SP-4 Sharr" was stationed in Germany, earning the "Sharpshooter" ranking and receiving the "National Defense Service Medal" prior to his honorable discharge in December 1972. On Saturday, August 24, 1974, beneath the shade of the trees in Grand Coulee Park, 20 year old Jerry Michael Sharr married Donna Kay McLean. For several years, Jerry owned and operated "Sharr's Oasis Auto Body Repair" of Grand Coulee, Washington. Jerry loved tinkering and "could fix anything", enjoyed spending time in the outdoors hunting and fishing and then during his later years, Mike even learned to love cats. A well-known patron of the Coulee Dam Casino, he had the distinction of winning their very first tournament. He was also a collector of many things. All who knew Mike found that he had a mischievous side...a "Jokester" who reveled in playing pranks on people when they least expected it! His greatest love and source of joy though was always his family, each of whom had their own unique Mike given nickname. "Mike was always there for us!" Predeceased by his sons: Jerry Blaine, Michael Jacob Sharr, his mother Joan, his father Harry, his sisters: Carolyn, Neomea, Echo, Tuddy; brothers: Lucky, Terry, and Larry. Mike's legacy lives on through the true love of his life his wife of 45 years, Donna Kay Sharr; daughter, Kay Michelle McLean (Marshal); grandson, Joseph Lee Sharr; siblings: Harry "Bud" Blaine, Theodore "Melvin" Sharr, Joe Mettling and Crystal Southerland as well as numerous nephews and nieces. An urn burial service with military honors will take place at Spring Canyon Cemetery in Grand Coulee at a future date. Due to the sudden passing of our loved one, we are asking for donations to take care of Mike's end of life costs. An account has been set up at North Cascades Bank in Grand Coulee, along with a go fund me page, and a Facebook fundraiser. The first time we added too much lemon, he said. To finish it off, Justin drizzled a little melted chocolate over the top of the pie. Pam Lippitt of Greensboro won second place and $125 for her Grandma Fairfields Strawberry Pie. The recipe is named after the grandmother of a good friend from high school. We went to Florida for spring break one time, Lippitt said. She made that pie for us every night when we came in from the beach. We must have eaten three or four of those pies that week. Made in a fairly traditional way, this pie features a standard baked crust. Like the first-place pie, it includes cream cheese in the filling, but this time it is flavored with a bit of orange juice and zest. The addition of orange is one reason she likes the pie, Lippitt said. The filling is topped with a glaze chock-full of fresh, lightly cooked, crushed strawberries. More whole strawberries are used for a garnish. Though Lippitts recipe says the pie may be served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, it was plenty tasty served plain. From Monday afternoon to Tuesday morning, police were scrambling to deal with five incidents in the city. Some may have been separate or connected. Police don't know yet. They're hoping the public can help. "Oftentimes, when dealing with some of these shootings, victims are uncooperative and not willing to give information," Deputy Police Chief James Hinson said. "It makes it harder to get information and detectives to get necessary followup." The first of the city's five shootings occurred around 3:45 p.m. at 1500-B Hudgins Drive when shots were fired into an apartment, but didn't strike any of the occupants. At 6:31 p.m., a 39-year-old man at a Gant Street house was grazed by bullets that struck his foot and head. Four hours later, police responded to 1208 Randolph Avenue where a 26-year-old man was shot in the hip. Around 2:35 a.m., police were back on Randolph Avenue this time, for the shooting of another man whose injuries were also minor. The last of the shootings happened after 9 a.m. Tuesday. Police were called to Randall Street, where once again shots were fired into an occupied house, but didn't strike anyone inside. If we dont do anything were going to continue having shootings and having funerals and just talking about it, Alston said. This is not a police initiative, it will all be nonprofit-based, City Council Member Sharon Hightower said. This is a different type of intervention. Under a proposed contract between the governments and the service provider, Guilford County and Greensboro will each supply $203,402, or half the programs nearly $407,000 annual budget, to Greensboro-based One Step Further Inc., the nonprofit that will manage the program. The boards will also be asked to supply a one-time contribution of $50,000 each for the initial training of the Greensboro Cure Violence staff members. One Step Furthers executive director is Greensboro Mayor Pro Tem Yvonne Johnson. Johnson said Tuesday that she will recuse herself from any votes that the City Council may take regarding Cure Violence and that none of her salary will come from money budgeted for the program. One Step Further, which has a $1.2 million budget, operates juvenile and adult mediation programs, management of community service on behalf of courts and a food support service for the community. A McDonald's cashier secretly gave birth in a restroom at work, then tried to drown her newborn son in a toilet, in September 2017, KTVU reported. When a coworker reported finding blood on the floor of the Redwood City, California, fast-food restroom, the cashier initially blamed it on her period, The Mercury News reported. Now Sarah Jane Lockner, 27, will serve no additional time in jail and four years of probation after pleading no contest to child endangerment, a judge ruled Friday, The San Francisco Chronicle reported. The judge sentenced Lockner to a year in jail with credit for time served. The judge also ordered Lockner to complete parenting classes, The Mercury News reported. The child, who recovered from a medically induced coma, now lives with his father's aunt. Prosecutors said Lockner had given birth at home five years earlier, saying she did not realize she was pregnant before either birth, The San Francisco Chronicle reported. Lockner had gone to the restroom several times during her shift at the McDonald's in Redwood City complaining of stomach pain, KTVU reported. Public safety is the priority as law enforcement agencies throughout Horry County prepare for bikers to roll in to Myrtle Beach for Atlantic Beach Bikefest Memorial Day weekend. Following months of preparation, over two dozen police officials and members of the Atlantic Beach Bikefest Task force gathered at the General Aviation Terminal in Myrtle Beach for the final time before the annual bikefest, also known as Black Bike Week, begins May 24. While the meeting lasted no more than five minutes, officials assured their confidence in sustaining public safety and communication during the weekend. "We have focused our efforts on making this a safe weekend and that's what we'll continue to do," Myrtle Beach police chief Amy Prock said. "Public safety is a shared responsibility, and we have worked very hard with our community, with our visitors, with our business owners and operators, as well as all of our (law enforcement) partners here." Myrtle Beach police held four informational forums last month informing residents and business owners on what to expect when thousands of bikers start making their way into the city. Despite attendance during the bike event declining over the years, officials anticipate a heavy presence and will implement the traffic loop that weekend. Now, delete the obfuscating and constitutionally irrelevant adjective viable, and look at a sonogram of a ten-week fetus. Note the eyes and lips, the moving fingers and, yes, the beating heart. Is this most suitably described as a cluster of cells or as a baby? The cluster-of-cells contingent resembles Chico Marx in the movie Duck Soup: Who ya gonna believe, me or your own eyes? The heartbeat bills are wholesome provocations: One of their aims is to provoke thinking about the moral dimension of extinguishing a being with a visibly beating heart. Furthermore, pro-life people are being provoked in different ways. Last month, Kansas Supreme Court found in this from the state constitution All men are possessed of equal and inalienable natural rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness a reason to overturn the states ban on D&E (dilation-and-evacuation) abortions that involve dismemberment of the living fetus. In February, after Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed an executive order to enforce taxpayer-funded abortions, Democratic legislators decided that not even that was enough. In North Carolina there are approximately 144,063 active and retired federal and postal employees. Federal employees serve and protect us every day at every level across the country and in our community. At no time was this more evident than during the 35-day partial government shutdown earlier this year. From ensuring safe air travel to regulating new medicines to maintaining a safe food supply to processing Social Security checks, civil servants are everywhere, yet invisibly so. And, contrary to popular belief, 85 percent of the federal workforce is located outside of Washington, D.C. When natural disasters strike, they provide relief and help us rebuild. When mass shootings take place, they enter harms way and care for the wounded. And, when once-eradicated viruses reappear, they investigate public health crises. Civil servants take pride in working for something bigger than themselves. At a time when the image of civil servants is unfairly tainted, and the idea of a career in public service is not on the minds of young professionals, its imperative that we recognize public servants and the noble profession of civil service. Eden Chamber of Commerce has encouraged and promoted us from the moment we opened for business. They are an integral resource at our fingertips. We feel that our Chamber is an asset for all businesses, large and small. Vicky Hale, Elite Driving School If you are not a current Chamber of Commerce member, consider joining today to enjoy their services. Oink & AleThis Saturday! This Saturday the 4th Annual Oink & Ale that will take place on Saturday, May 11 from 6 p.m.-9:00 p.m. on Monroe Street in Historic Downtown Eden. Brewers include Natty Greenes of Greensboro, Two Witches of Danville, Mountain Valley of Axton, VA and introducing Reynolds Brewing of Eden. Music will be provided by Eagles tribute band, On the Border, barbeque vendors and That Little Pork Shop. Free admission. This is always a fun time for everyone so join us. For more information, check out the Explore Eden Facebook page. Get Fit RockinghamComing Soon! The 2nd Annual Get Fit Rockingham will kick off on Saturday, June 1st in Eden, Reidsville, Madison/Mayodan and Stoneville. T-shirts will be available mid-May at the Eden Chamber of Commerce. Weekly group walks and other activities are planned. Stay tuned to this column for more information. Mike Dougherty is director of economic development for the City of Eden. He can be reached at mdougherty@edennc.us or 336-612-8039. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. GIBSONVILLE Its likely the man known as General George Washingtons most dependable officer never imagined his stay at High Rock Ford would forever be enshrined. Its also guaranteed fact that General Nathanael Greene and the more than 4,000 men who gathered at the encampment near the established river crossing, would never have imagined the areas new recreational history, carved out by outdoor and history enthusiasts more than 230 years later. On April 27, local officials and members of the community gathered near the large rock outcropping to celebrate the launch of the High Rock Ford Historic Site and Haw River Trail Access. Made possible by a Duke Energy Water Resources grant, the collaborative effort between the Museum and Archives of Rockingham County, or MARC, and the Dan River Basin Association, preserves nature and local history. The roughly quarter-mile trail runs along the Haw River and prominently displays the historic value of the countys first milling site. Visitors learn how the mill expanded operations over the years, about its decline and the historic importance of the land in 1781, when Greene and his militia prepared for one of the most significant battles of the Revolutionary War. The projection uses a formula that calculates new tax revenues generated by new jobs and the JDIG authorizes the reimbursement to Pella of up to roughly $1.2 million spread over 12 years. I think its gonna pay off with great benefits, Copeland said of Pellas decision to locate in Rockingham County. Pellas CEO Tim Yaggi was on hand to receive a commemorative china plate, adorned with the state seal, from Copeland. The company also received a wooden silhouette of the state as a gift from the county. The work of art highlights the company's decision to expand in Rockingham County and features a yellow Pella logo placed in the northern middle portion of the North Carolina cut out. Pella will remodel the Reidsville facility before going on-line with manufacturing in December, Yaggi said. Founded in Des Moines in 1925, the family-owned company currently operates 11 facilities nationwide. Were thrilled to be here today," said Yaggi, who took the helm at Pella in 2016. Governor Roy Cooper, unable to attend the press event as he recovered from back surgery in Raleigh, issued a statement: "In North Carolina were proud of our manufacturing expertise and our skilled workforce that helps companies thrive here, Cooper said. Were excited to welcome Pella to Rockingham County and know they will find talented North Carolinians ready to get to work. Susie C. Spear is a staff writer at RockinghamNow. She can be reached at 743-333-4101. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. This change was probably a good idea. But unless one accounts for the money the same way across different proposals and fiscal years, the results can be misleading. Similarly, the tax side of the House budget also generated some confusion. It includes an increase in the standard deduction for North Carolinians who pay income tax and a reduction in the franchise tax, which taxes the value of businesses. But the revenue impact of these tax cuts will be partially offset by new policies designed to collect more sales tax from consumers who make online purchases. The Houses net tax cut, then, is a comparatively modest $150 million over two years. However, because North Carolina is in the process of moving large numbers of Medicaid patients into managed-care networks operated by private insurers, the state will start collecting premium taxes on health-plan enrollees whose claims were previously paid by Medicaid itself. This change will net about $200 million in tax revenue over the next two years, according to the legislatures fiscal analysts. The first quarter of the year hasnt been great for Connecticuts job market. The state dropped 3,400 jobs in three months, according to Thursday reports from the Department of Labor. Connecticut lost 1,300 jobs last month alone, pushing unemployment one-tenth higher than the national rate of 3.8. DOL also revised the February 2019 job loss numbers of 400 up by 800, reflecting a gain of 400 jobs that month. Pete Gioia, economic adviser to the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, said he was disappointed at the ongoing job decline, attributing the losses to recently approved legislation. The CBIA has expressed its concerns over paid family and medical leave which was advanced by the Labor and Public Employees Committee this quarter. Gioia said the law would add significant costs and burdens to employers, particularly small employers across the state. "How many more jobs do we have to lose before the legislature changes its direction? he asked. The private sector shed 1,100 jobs last month while the public sector lost 200. Construction and mining has continued its decline, dropping 900 jobs; the sector has lost roughly 1,500 jobs over the past three months. Leisure and hospitality and professional and business services werent far behind, dropping 700 and 600 jobs respectively. Connecticut has recovered 80.3 percent of the 120,300 jobs lost from the 2008 recession. The state needs an additional 23,700 net new jobs to rebound fully, ranking last in job recovery in New England, according to the CBIA. Don Klepper-Smith, an economist who advises Liberty Bank, said in a recent report that Marchs numbers were to be expected, calling the latest decline a "softening, and under pressure from a weakening domestic economy." Klepper-Smith maintained that the state's economy will probably not see full job recovery until 2021. The odds are that both Connecticut and the nation are apt to be encountering a full-blown national recession prior to full job recovery in Connecticut, which raises serious questions about the state's fiscal health over the near-term, he said in the report. Four of the 10 major industries added jobs, however. The financial activities industry led the charge, adding 700 jobs, for a total of 127,400. The trade, transportation and utilities, and education and health gained 200 jobs, respectively. Among the states six regional labor markets, Danburys showed signs of growth with a slight gain of 200 jobs while other markets in the area suffered. The Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk area lost 600 jobs while the New Haven market fell by 300. Jordan.grice@hearstmedict.com It took three and a half minutes for faculty and students at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., to learn there was an active shooter in their school. Four Yale University students feel their mobile alert app can drastically reduce response time during similar emergencies. We realized there that schools really have a communication problem internally, but also externally, said Michael Chime, who developed the app Prepared with classmates Daniel James, Neal Soni and Dylan Gleicher to alert students and faculty members during school shootings. International reports described 2018 as the worst year in the United States for gun violence in schools, and the Parkland shooting was at the center of it. Data from Education Week, a journal covering education in the U.S., found that there were 24 school shootings that resulted in 114 injuries or deaths. The mobile application lets faculty respond almost instantly to an active shooting incident using their phones to connect with students and first responders. Chime said most of the features on the app are the result of feedback from local schools, and a case study he and his team conducted on the Parkland school shooting. Approved users can send a lockdown notification to the entire school and local law enforcement through the program by pressing and holding an active shooter button for three seconds, which sends out an Amber alert-style message. The program also lets users provide information on the emergency through a messaging feature, including location and description of the suspected shooter. That streamlined response will be communicated with the authorities at the press of a button, Chime said, touting a 15-second alert time. A newly added feature also notifies school district officials, who can then can send emergency messages to nearby schools. Were able to ensure that the security of the schools surrounding (the emergency) are in thought as well, Chime said. The app has already received a favorable review at Yale, according to Chime, who said the university has invested roughly $40,000 into the startup, including the Miller Prize for $25,000. The quartet will also spend their summer in an accelerator program where they will continue to develop the application and work with school districts nationwide to implement it. Theyve reached out to school districts in Connecticut and other states, including Louisiana and Ohio, where James and Chime are from, respectively. Chime said theyve been in contact with local law enforcement as well. Another app developer said he saw the undergraduates startup as a valuable tool for the school system. I think thats potentially powerful for sure, said Ben Berkowitz, CEO and founder of SeeClickFix, a New Haven-based web and mobile platform that allows users to communicate with local government about public works issues. His company, which has been around for a decade, has about 350 city partners that use the application and website as a primary means of taking public service requests about potholes, graffiti or illegal dumping. Jordan.grice@hearstmediact.com 3 1 of 3 Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut / Contributed photo Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut / Contributed photo Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Fairfield County residents are expected be out in force in Stamford on Sunday, May 19, showing support for epilepsy awareness and the Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut (EFCT) by participating in the Walk to End Epilepsy at the Cove Island Park. Registration for the walk begins at 9 a.m. and the event starts at 10. Registration is $35 and includes a T-shirt, lunch and a purple bandana for dogs. Note: dogs are welcome on-leash on the walk path at this family-friendly event. HARTFORD Ethans Law which would require all firearms, loaded and unloaded, to be safely stored in homes occupied by minors under 18 years of age easily passed the House Tuesday with bipartisan support. The bill, which passed by a 127-16 vote, would allow prosecutors to criminally charge the owner of a gun that isnt properly stored. It now moves to the Senate. Gov. Ned Lamont has already endorsed the legislation. Connecticuts current safe storage law only requires that loaded firearms be properly stored if a minor is likely to gain access to the firearm without the permission of the parent or guardian of the minor. Ethan Song, of Guilford, died of a self-inflicted gunshot. The 15-year-old accidentally shot himself in the head in January of 2018, the Waterbury states attorneys office said after concluding its investigation. A juvenile friend of Ethans was charged with second-degree manslaughter in the death. Ethans parents, Kristin and Mike Song, have become nationally known advocates for stronger gun storage laws since their sons death. The Songs watched the vote from the House gallery. Asked her feelings about the vote, Kristin Song used a word thats shes used before to describe her feelings bittersweet. Song spent her morning picking out tombstones for her son. Something shes been unable to do since his death. I just kept thinking how ironic it was that I was picking out a tombstone for my son on the same day were going up to do Ethans Law, Song said. Michael Song said at times during the debate he felt like Ethan was right next to him and at other times he was so far away from him that he couldnt bear it. To see people meet in the middle is really gratifying, Song said. Kristin Song added that shes so happy people are willing to step up and make a change, especially the Republicans. She said she was perplexed by some of the pushback against the bill because it doesnt infringe on anybodys right to own a gun. We have so much more in common than what separate us. We all want to keep our loved ones safe, we all want to keep guns out of the hands of the bad guys, we all want a safer America, Kristin Song said. There is a balance between freedom and responsibility. Freedom is great, but it has always come with limit. Rep. Sean Scanlon, D-Guilford, told his colleagues: My community, my hometown suffered an unspeakable tragedy. Ethans parents did everything right; they raised Ethan and two other kids as best as they could and yet, there was nothing they could do. Somebody else, a different person improperly stored a firearm, Scanlon said. Looking at the gallery at the Songs, Scanlon told the couple that they have showed more courage than I thought was possible in two people. To bury a child and then go out in public and try and change something, try to change our state. But today we are going to do something very special in his honor and your honor. Rep. Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, whose district includes Guilford, worked with Scanlon and the other shoreline legislators on the bill and has noted in the past that he was one who has not been a strong supporter of repealing gun owner rights. But he said Ethans Law was an example of the way we should do things in this chamber, noting the bill came from dialogues between legislators of both parties not confrontation. Again, referring to the Songs, Candelora said: I hope this bill will start the healing process for them. Part of the language bill calls, but does not mandate, on state education officials to provide guidance to local school districts to developing firearm safety programs in schools. The president of largest Second Amendment organization in Connecticut, Connecticut Citizens Defense League President Scott Wilson was happy that language is part of the bill. Rather than criminalizing gun ownership, teaching children to understand the importance of what can happen if a firearm is handled without adult supervision is much more important, Wilson said. The Songs will be making a return trip to Washington, D.C. later this month, Kristin Song said, when U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., is expected to introduce federal legislation modeled after Connecticuts Ethans Law bill. Christine Stuart contributed to this report. WASHINGTON After the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School, a group of 26 bicyclists created a tradition of riding from Newtown to Washington D.C. each spring to promote gun control. But not this year. This year Newtowns Team 26 has a different destination the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pa., where about six months ago, 11 people died and seven were wounded as they worshiped. We rode to Washington six years in a row and during that period of time, Congress has remained paralyzed and has not done anything to make our communities safer, said Monte Frank, an attorney who organized the Team 26 rides. The teams focus now is to ride through communities to promote activism with the expectation that Washington will follow as the culture changes and people are calling for safe communities, said Frank, who ran unsuccessfully as an independent for lieutenant governor last year. He said Team 26, named after the 26 victims of the Newtown shooting, is modeling its campaign after the civil rights and LGTB movements, which pressured politicians to move to outlaw discrimination. As the riders approached Philadelphia Saturday, they learned of another shooting - at the Chabad of Poway synagogue in San Diego, Calif., that resulted in the death of one woman the wounding of a rabbi and two others. It rocked us to the core, Frank said. He said his mother is a Holocaust victim and he had always heard the phrase never again. Unfortunately, thats becoming yet again, Frank said. Shortly after the cyclists arrived in Baltimore, the journeys halfway point, eight people were shot, one fatally, in a neighborhood in the western part of the city. On Monday, Team 26 held a press conference with Baltimores acting mayor, Jack Young and members of the city council to denounce the violence. We are with you 100 percent, said Baltimore City Council Vice President Sharon Green Middleton. The Newtown shooting on Dec. 14, 2012 , which claimed the lives of 20 first graders and six educators, opened a new chapter in the battle over gun control, spawning a number of new organizations ready to do battle with the National Rifle Association and other militant gun rights groups. Sandy Hook Promise was among the first. But unlike organizations born of the Newtown massacre, including the Newtown Action Alliance and Moms Demand Action, which push for changes in gun laws, Sandy Hook Promise has become more focused on developing school safety programs and training students to recognize and report warning signs among classmates. Team 26, seeks to promote cultural change, riding through Peekskill, N.Y, Morristown and Trenton, N.J., and Philadelphia, Pa., as well as Delaware and Baltimore since Friday. Still ahead are 300 more miles through the Allegheny Mountains to Gettysburg and many small towns on the way to Pittsburgh, which the team hopes to reach on Thursday. Everywhere we stop, we are embraced, Frank said. States taking the lead While the Newtown bicyclists are ignoring Washington D.C. this year, the House of Representative, in Democratic hands since last years midterm elections, has approved several gun measures for the first time in decades. One would lengthen the time the FBI has to conduct a background check of potential gun buyers. Another would expand those background checks to sales at gun shows and between individuals on the internet. As part of its reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, the U.S. House also voted to lower the criminal threshold to bar someone from buying a gun to include misdemeanor convictions of domestic abuse or stalking charges. Current law applies to felony convictions. But the U.S. Senate, still under GOP control, is not expected to approve any of these House-passed measures. So, the focus of many gun control groups has been on state capitols, where they have scored a number of successes. States enacted more than three times as many gun control laws in 2018 as in 2017. But the NRA, which is in the midst of a leadership struggle and beset by accusations of self-dealing and poor management, is far from toothless. And when Team 26 reaches Pittsburgh this week, it will be embroiled in a legal struggle with the NRA. Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto mayor signed legislation earlier this month restricting the use of assault-style weapons in the city. But supporters of the legislation are facing tough resistance from gun rights advocates who say the city doesnt have the authority to issue such a ban and the NRA has filed a lawsuit on behalf of some Pittsburgh residents. We are behind the mayor of Pittsburgh, and against attempts to preempt the new gun law, Frank said. Team 26 riders were buffeted by cold rains and strong headwinds on their trip south to Baltimore. Frank said that the hard ride is symbolic of the struggle for gun control. As far as a return to Washington D.C. by Team 26, Monte said thats always possible. When Congress acts, well come down and have a nice celebration, he said. This week America is celebrating our countrys 30.2 million small businesses. And while there will be National Small Business Week parties inside brick-and-mortar stores and deals on ecommerce sites, we should be thanking Alexander Graham Bell because the telephone is still the lifeline for local businesses, even in the digital age. Every day, American small businesses receive an astounding 400 million calls from customers wanting to place to-go orders, book appointments, check open hours, inquire about inventory, and more. Related: 4 Simple Ways to Communicate Better With Your Customers Phone a friend. Last week BrightLocal revealed that 60 percent of consumers still prefer to pick up the phone and call local businesses instead of emailing them or contacting them via social media. Why is this still the case in the era of ubiquitous internet? Theres two primary reasons. First, small business dont have the resources to invest in digital marketing and sophisticated communication channels. For example, a custom website can cost around $30,000. Not surprising, BigCommerce found that a whopping 46 percent of small businesses dont even have a website. Other modern technologies, like call tracking platforms and interactive voice response systems, charge by the minute or the call, which makes for unpredictable budgeting and can cause cash flow issues. The second reason is more human. As customers, we feel a personal connection to our local pizzerias, oil change shops and HVAC repairmen. We call these businesses when were in a crunch, when were on-the-go, when were hungry. We know theyll provide what we need faster than a big company could and better than we could on our own. Small businesses are our friend. Related: When It Comes to Sales, the Phone Is Your Most Powerful Tool Phony Problem Adding to this call volume is spam. In 2018, 26.3 billion robocalls were made to American phones, according to Hiya. Thats up 46 percent from 2017s total of 18 billion. As a result, my team at CallJoy found that nearly half of small business calls go unanswered because owners are just too busy or assume the caller is another spammer. You cant blame them. Not only are robocalls annoying, but falling victim to a fraudulent spam caller is costly. A study from Truecaller estimated that Americans lost $8.9 billion to phone scams in 2017. But when the phone goes unanswered, customers dont get that sushi roll they were craving or that massage appointment they really wanted. Simply put, spam impacts customer service levels, giving consumers the short end of the stick. Related: Nearly Half of All Cell Phone Calls Will Be Scam Calls in 2019 Untying the phone line. This growing volume of customer calls can easily overwhelm any small business, especially when coupled with other factors such as peak call times, seasonal trends or employee turnover. This National Small Business Week, here are five tips local entrepreneurs can use to untie the phone line: 1. Conduct resource planning. By tracking phone calls, youll gain insights into your peak call times and what customers are most frequently asking for. This knowledge will empower you to properly plan resources. For example, if the majority of phone calls to your retail store happen between 5-7pm, you might need an extra clerk during that shift. If your beauty salon frequently gets asked about a particular organic shampoo, you might want to stock more of that product. 2. Properly train staff. Oftentimes, the root of long hold times and busy signals is that hostesses, receptionists and clerks arent properly trained upfront. Assess your training program and manuals and provide cheat sheets to ensure phone calls are fielded efficiently, and with customer service at heart. 3. Predict and answer basic questions. Many calls your business receives are probably basic questions, like open hours and location information. Proactively answer these questions via resources on your website, social channels and your Google My Business profile to save the customer (and you) a phone call. 4. Find affordable, accessible technology tools. From DIY website builders to online ordering and reservations apps to call answering services, new software programs are emerging that harness the power of the Cloud and even artificial intelligence. Best of all, some of these tools are affordable, finally making sophisticated technology accessible to small businesses and big corporations alike. 5. Report spam. Check with your phone company to see if they can block calls from any problematic numbers. If you're in the U.S., register your personal number with the National Do Not Call Registry at: www.donotcall.gov/register/reg.aspx. And finally, submit a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, go to www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222. Despite evolutions in mobile technology and social media, Alexander Graham Bell would be glad to know the telephone continues to be a lifeline for local businesses. And I predict it will remain so for many, many years. Managing your call volume is critical to keeping high levels of customer satisfaction, productivity and profitability. So untie the phone line -- your customers, your employees and your stress level will thank you. Related: It's National Small Business Week. Is Your Phone Ringing Off the Hook? Are You a Small Business Owner or an Entrepreneur? 6 SEO Tips to Benefit Any Business Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved GREENWICH Two cafeteria workers were arrested at Greenwich High School on Tuesday morning, police said. Officers were called to the Hillside Road campus at about 8:10 a.m. on a report of a dispute between two women, police said. Upon arrival, investigation revealed that the parties had engaged in a physical fight in a public place, which resulted in injury to multiple parties, according to the arrest report. Gina Gazard, 51, of Virgil Street, Stamford; and Tammy Caballero, 34, of North Street, Stamford, were each charged with assault and breach of peace. The incident took place shortly before students began arriving for class. Both women were released without bail. Google's hardware announcements at its I/O developer conference today weren't all about phones. The company also unveiled the previously leaked Nest Hub Max, a bigger smart display than the Google Home Hub which it launched last year. To make things more logical, that device will be known from now on as the Nest Hub. The new Nest Hub Max is, as its name implies, bigger. It comes with a 10-inch 1,280x800 touchscreen, a 6.5 MP camera with a 127-degree field of view and auto-framing, a speaker system consisting of 2x18mm 10W tweeters and one 75mm 30W subwoofer, far-field microphones, an ambient light sensor, Bluetooth 5.0, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and Chromecast built-in. Because it has a camera, you can use gestures on the Nest Hub Max. You can look at it and raise your hand to pause media, thanks to its gesture recognition technology. Expanding upon Voice Match, which lets the Google Assistant recognize who is talking to it, the Hub Max has Face Match. The facial recognition is processed locally with on-device machine learning, so the camera data never leaves the device. Once you walk in front of the camera, the Hub Max will recognize you and show just your information, and not anyone else's from your household. The Assistant will offer personalized recommendations, and you can easily video chat with friends by using Duo. A green light on the front of the Hub Max indicates when the camera is streaming, and nothing is streamed or recorded unless you explicitly enable it. Additionally, you have a hardware switch that lets you physically disable both the microphone and the camera when you want to. The Nest Hub Max will be available "later this summer" for $229 in the US, 219 in the UK, and AUD 349 in Australia. In the US it will be found at the Google Store, but also at Best Buy, Target, and Home Depot. The smaller Nest Hub (previously known as Google Home Hub) is arriving in more markets: Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Singapore, Spain, and Sweden. In the US its price has been lowered to $129. Speaking of lower prices, the Google Home speaker is $99 from now on, while the Home Max is $299. Source BILOXI, Mississippi -- Two brothers are now in custody, charged in the Sunday murder of a Biloxi police officer which has left Biloxi and the entire coast mourning the loss of a member of its law enforcement community. Veteran Biloxi police officer Robert McKeithen was gunned down in front of the Biloxi Police Department on Porter Avenue Sunday night. The 57-year-old patrolman was shot multiple times as he attempted to make his way to his SUV patrol vehicle in the the station parking lot. Monday morning, Biloxi police chief John Miller spoke about McKeithen, a 24-year veteran of law enforcement who had planned to retire at the end of 2019. He did a great job. He took care of the citizens of Biloxi for almost 24 years, Miller said during a press conference just a few feet from where McKeithen had been shot. "He was an Air Force veteran. During (Hurricane) Katrina, Robert, with other officers, was awarded the medal of valor for saving four special needs children. That was the kind of guy he was, Miller continued. "It was a horrible, horrible event he had to go through but he went through it anyway. And they saved those children, who undoubtedly would have perished. I tell you that because I want you to know the kind of man that he was -- a fine, decent man, a great policeman and he served the citizens of Biloxi well. Even as Miller spoke, a manhunt was underway for his killer, with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigations leading the way, assisted by the Gulfport Police Department, FBI and others. Ultimately, however, it was one of Biloxis own who spotted the suspect. Late Monday afternoon, a Biloxi officer who lives in Stone County recognized the suspect vehicle and followed it, awaiting the arrival of Wiggins police, who ultimately apprehended the suspect in front of the Hampton Inn in Wiggins. Taken into custody was 19-year-old Darian Tawan Atkinson of Biloxi. He was transported back to Biloxi, where he was charged with the captial murder of a law enforcement officer. After booking at the Biloxi PD, Atkinson was transferred to the Harrison County Adult Detention Center, where he remains awaiting an initial court appearance. But the investigation continued and, late Monday night, word came that a second suspect -- 21-year-old Davian Lewanika Anderson, brother of the accused murderer -- had been taken into custody and charged as an accessory after the fact. He, too, was taken to the Harrison County ADC and is awaiting his first appearance in court. The younger Atkinson, according to both the Sun Herald and WXXV, was suspended from Biloxi High School for three days in 2018 for making threats against the school in the wake of the Parkland, Fla., school shooting. Biloxi NAACP president James Crowell told the Biloxi newspaper Darian Atkinson had threatened his goddaughter when the two were discussing the Parkland shooting, saying Im thinking about doing the same thing here and Im going to start with you', according to Crowell. While there was obvious relief that McKeithens alleged killer and his accomplice were in custody, that did little to assuage the grief many across the coast were feeling. McKeithen was hailed as a great family man, who leaves behind a wife, daughter, two stepsons and a stepdaughter. He was a wonderful family man, Miller said. Thats where he spent all his time, with his family. He was a gentle man for a policeman. He was very gentle. Likeable. He treated people with respect and dignity and were going to miss him sorely. Biloxi Mayor Andrew FoFo Gilich called McKeithens murder dreadful. Gilich came to the Biloxi PD Sunday night after the shooting and later consoled the fallen officers family at the hospital. Officer McKeithen dedicated his life to this job and this community, Gilich said. This is a tragic reminder of the dangers that these men and women face in their chosen profession -- which is to protect our community. Services for Robert McKeithen are set for Monday at First Baptist Church in Biloxi. Public visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m., with funeral services to immediately follow. McKeithen will be laid to rest at 2:30 p.m. in Biloxi National Cemetery. An account for the McKeithen family has been set up at Southern Coastal Credit Union on Howard Avenue for those wishing to make donations to assist the family. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Photo: Castanet Staff The 26th annual McHappy Day takes place Wednesday in the South Okanagan. In Penticton and Osoyoos, one dollar from every Big Mac, Happy Meal and hot beverage will go to fund the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation and Ronald McDonald House. Funds raised will go towards the purchase of a jaundice meter (transcutaneous bilimeter) for the pediatric wing of the Penticton hospital. Local co-ordinator Caitlyn Knowles around South Okanagan 50 families stayed at Ronald McDonald House in Vancouver last year. The Ronald McDonald facilities across Canada provide out-of-town families with a place to stay while their child is being treated at a nearby hospital. Donations made in Penticton and Osoyoos will be split 50/50 between the two initiatives. Community leaders, first responder and other dignitaries will be working at the Penticton restaurant throughout the day to celebrate the event. Haiti - News : Zapping... Network of counterfeiters dismantled The agents of the DCPJ dismantled a network of counterfeiters. 6 members of this network accused of fake in public and private writing, use of forgery, scam and criminal conspiracy were apprehended, informs the deputy spokesman of the PNH, Gary Desrosiers, also he informed that 13 presumed bandits who would be members of the gang of Savane Pistache have been, to date, arrested by the police. 1 inmate dies every 5 days From January to April 2019, 26 people died in prison, an average of 6 inmates per month. Delva always ready to talk with Arnel The Senator of the Artibonite, Garcia Delva under fire for his phone calls with the Head Gang Arnel said "If Arnel Joseph called me today, I will answer, and I am ready to talk to him," claiming to have the quiet conscience and reminding those who accuse him of complicity without proof "It is up to whistleblowers to reveal the content of my conversations." A Task Force to inspect the containers Tuesday, the Commissioner of the Government of the Court of First Instance of Port-au-Prince, Port-au-Prince Me Paul Eronce Villard announced the creation, together with the customs, of a Task Force composed of representatives of the Prosecutor's Office , the National Police and Customs to conduct a weekly random check on containers from abroad. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27668-haiti-security-the-17-containers-disappeared-found-at-port-lafito-the-authorities-backpedaling.html Fanmi Lavalas accuses the authorities of "State Terrorism" Monday press conference, Fanmi Lavalas has qualifed the killing of Carrefour-Feuilles on April 24 of "State terrorism" See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-27559-haiti-flash-massacre-of-carrefour-feuilles-death-toll-climbed-cspn-emergency-meeting.html 3.57 million for the public square of Fort-Liberte As part of the improvement of infrastructure in Haiti, the Office of Monetization of Development Aid Programs (BMPAD) reinforces the municipality by helping to finance the renovation of the public square of Fort Liberte up to 3,57 million gourdes. HL/ HaitiLibre Photo: Contributed The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is concerned about the impact an tiny mussel could have on the region. Earlier this year, it was announced an endangered mussel native to Okanagan Lake was being harmed by milfoil harvesting. The Okanagan Basin Water Board has managed invasive Eurasian milfoil in the Okanagan for more than four decades with rototilling. For years the boards rototillers have avoided areas where the Rocky Mountain ridged mussel listed as a special concern under the federal Species at Risk Act - had been found. Earlier this year the list of beaches in the Okanagan where the mussel has been spotted grew substantially to include several high-public use areas that are traditionally rototilled including Kin and Paddlewheel Park beaches in Vernon. Our chamber appreciates the need to protect aquatic species and specifically the Rocky Mountain Ridged Mussel (RMRM). However, we have significant concern about regulations that have recently prohibited the rototilling of the milfoil weed in areas where RMRM are located, particularly as there is no firm evidence that rototolling negatively impacts the RMRM, Diana Wilson, chamber president, said a the letter to federal and provincial officials. If anything, there is evidence that allowing milfoil to grow unchecked will disturb conditions for the mussels. The chamber is also concerned that the decision to classify the RMRM as endangered under the Species at Risk Act does not reflect more recent studies, and particularly a 2015 study that estimated the total population at nine sites to be more than 13,000. We believe strongly that the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada must review the latest data, and that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans must conduct public consultations on classifying RMRM as endangered, said Wilson. Anyone familiar with the Okanagan knows that our lakes are at the very heart of our lifestyle and economy. We depend on them for drinking water, irrigation, recreation and tourism. It is because of our reliance on these lakes that effective milfoil control is essential. Without it, the invasive plant infests public beaches, boating areas and marinas. A B.C. Ministry of Environment report in 1991 indicated ending the milfoil control program would generate an economic loss in the millions of dollars. The chamber takes the status of the RMRM very seriously and we support measures that allow the species to flourish. However, there is a requirement for a more evidence-based and balanced approach that protects the RMRM while allowing the invasive Eurasian milfoil to be addressed, said Wilson. The chamber is asking the federal and provincial departments to conduct further research into the potential impact of milfoil derooting on RMRM and to permit the Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) to conduct derooting in areas where milfoil control historically occurs. Eric Pallas, of Missoula, points out the different shipments he has to take care of Monday in Havre. Pallas, who is not a truck driver by trade, said he is helping the Montana DNRC deliver trees across the state because the former driver no longer works for them. Monday, the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation office in Havre and the Hill County Conservation District received a shipment of trees from the state to help agricultural producers with their conservation efforts. "It's a big service the conservation district does," NRCS Soil Conservationist Laurie Massar said. The conservation district received more than 7,000 trees ordered in Hill County by more than 20 producers, she said. The trees also come in a wide variety, more than 40 different species, with bare root, small container or large container seedlings for producers to choose from, such as Engelmann spruce, green ash and big sage. Massar said that the trees would be for conservation planting and not residential planting. The trees have a specific purpose for producers and are not ornamental, she added. The trees are designed to act as windbreaks around farmsteads and fields, prevent wind erosion as well as reduce energy costs. She said that people also use the trees for livestock shelter. Hill County Conservation District Board Chair Ted Brown said the trees are used to increase wildlife, provide areas of shade and prevent wind damage, because the trees can redirect wind or provide a wind break. Brown said that the trees are also heavily discounted compared to the trees in residential nurseries, at least a 35 percent discount. One of the reasons for the heavy discount is because many of the producers that purchase the tree seedlings purchase them in bulk, Massar said. For example, this year, one producer bought more than 2,000 seedlings for their property. Brown added that the conservation district has been selling the trees once a year for more than 30 years, with NRCS providing technical support. They start taking orders in the fall through the winter and people applying to purchase trees have to draw up a plan for planting, so the NRCS knows what the customer will be using their trees for. Massar said that some people are planting trees in new areas but others are replacing older or damaged trees. She added that the NRCS and the conservation district do not make any money off of the tree sales and checks are made out to the state treasurer's office and the money goes back to the state fund. The conservation district is the "middle man," she said, between producers and the state. "This is something that people really appreciate," Massar said. "They see the value of planting trees for wildlife." Brown added that there is also an aesthetics appeal to having trees. Havre Daily News/Ryan Berry Mackenzie Hullinger unloads a box of saplings from the back of a DNRC truck Monday in Havre. "The farm always looks nicer with trees," he said. He said that the conservation district has two tree-planter machines that people can rent out as well as fabric layers available for people to use to prevent weed growth near their trees. "It's amazing stuff," he said. "It's a huge time saver if you're willing to take the time to do it." Brown added that it takes at least five years for some of the trees to become effective and that about 50 percent of what is planted will be lost before then. The tree seedlings are grown in nurseries around the state which the state then purchases and transports them to different state NRCS offices. The truck which delivered Hill County's seedling started in Missoula and will work its way to Glasgow. "They are worth the effort," Massar said. Rep. Jacob Bachmeier, D-Havre, left, Paul Tuss, second from right and Keeley Wilson, right, look on as Stewart Wilson presents Gov. Steve Bullock with two bags of Keeley Wilson's Ladybug Bites dog treats. Stewart Wilson made the presentation after Bullock signed into law a bill sponsored by Bachmeier reducing licensing and registration expenses for small pet treat businesses like Keeley Wilson's. HELENA - During the 2019 legislative session two Havre women made their voices heard in Helena, and Gov. Steve Bullock signed into law Tuesday two bills they requested. Havreite Keeley Wilson, owner of Ladybug Bites, and Andrea Melle, divorced mother of two adults with autistism spectrum disorders spoke to their local representative about the bills that they wanted to see in the Legislature. Rep. Jacob Bachmeier introduced House Bill 607, which eliminates the cost of the licenses and lowers the product registration fee to $25 to register 20 products, if the business' annual sales are $25,000 or less at Keeley Wilson's request. The 20 products will still have to be analyzed and tested but at no additional cost. Rep. Mary Caferro, D-Helena, sponsored and Bachmeier co-sponsored House Bill 726 for Andrea Melle's request, extending the period of child support obligations at children with disabilities when the custodial parent is the caregiver. Keeley Wilson and her father, Stewart Wilson, traveled to Helena for the bill signing ceremony. Andrea Melle was unable to attend the signing of her bill due to her obligations to her children. Melle said that she would have liked to make it to the ceremony, but her children take priority. "The main thing is that it gets signed," Melle said. Regulating small pet treat businesses Seven months after first receiving a letter from the Montana Department of Agriculture, Keeley Wilson, owner of the homemade pet treat business Ladybug Bites, watched first-hand as Gov. Steve Bullock signed House Bill 607 into law. HB 607 was the first bill signed by the governor Tuesday. "Are these made out of ladybugs?" Bullock asked, teasing Keeley as he signed the bill. Stewart Wilson, Keeley's father, handed Bullock two bags of dog treats after he signed the bill. Wilson said that he knew that Bullock had two dogs and thought that it would be a good gift. The Wilsons asked Rep. Jacob Bachmeier, D-Havre, to sponsor the bill to reduce restrictions on small-scale pet treat businesses. Keeley Wilson, who has Williams Syndrome, operates her business in the front of the business of her mother, Dottie Wilson, The Infinity Bake Shoppe. Keeley and her family received a letter in November from the Montana Department of Agriculture, informing her that she was in violation of the law, and she had to obtain a license and register each one of her products. If she didn't, further action would need to be taken, the letter said. The license would cost $100 and the registration was $50 for each product. For her small business, that was an exorbitant amount of money and threatened to close her business. Stewart Wilson said that he and Keeley produce their treats at home and the letter that they received in November stated that Keeley needed to register each on of her products to be analyzed for accrued protein, fat, moisture and fiber. "It was quite a process to get that registered," he added. Wilson said his daughter has registered 13 of her products and will be going off of the old program until the end of the year. Next year, he said, they can make up to 20 different treats. He added that they will be bringing back some of their old products that they haven't been able to make because of the previous regulations. Stewart said that while the bill was being written and working its way through the Legislature they received frequent calls from the Department of Agriculture about the procedures they had to go through with the previous system. "It was like they were waiting for someone to challenge this," he said. He added that HB 607 will not only affect Keeley's business but a number of small-scale pet treat producers across the state. Bachmeier said passing the bill generally went smoothly. "For the most part, I think things went pretty well working with both the family the Department of Agriculture and members of the committee," he said. "The whole concept of the bill was exciting," Bachmeier said, adding that he was excited to help Keeley Wilson but as the bill was being worked on they found that it could positively impact more than 300 producers in the state. A few amendments were added to the bill, but they were good changes that he agreed with, Bachmeier said. He added that one of the amendments was increasing annual sales from $10,000 to $25,000. The change was modeled after a cottage foods bill in the 2015 session and was requested by economic development groups. Bachmeier said that they didn't want to increase the annual sales so much that it would exclude large producers, and $25,000 was a number everyone could agree with. He added that, at one point, the Republicans wanted to expand the intent of the bill to include any pet treat producer and expand it to dog food. That amendment would eliminate most of the regulations for anyone producing dog treats and dog food, which was not the intent of the bill. "I think if that amendment would have been introduced, the Department of Agriculture probably would have ended up opposing the bill and the governor would have not supported the bill," Bachmeier said. He said he was able to convince them not to introduce the amendment, but even at the very end it was a possibility. He said that if they wanted to introduce their own bill next session it would be a different matter, but it was important that HB 607 was passed this session. "I'm grateful that they held off to support Keeley and other small producers," he said. "It was important that we got this bill through this session." Stewart Wilson said that in the House some legislators opposed the bill, but once it got to the Senate side it was unanimously passed by the Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation Committee. It passed the House 60-40 on final reading, with Bachmeier and Reps. Joshua Kassmier, R-Fort Benton, and Jonathan Windy Boy, D-Box Elder, voting for it, and Rep. Casey Knudsen, R-Malta, voting against. It passed the Senate 50-0 on its final reading. During the session Keeley Wilson and her family traveled to Helena to testify on behalf of the bill. She said that she was nervous testifying but was happy to be able to speak on the importance of the bill. One of the questions that was asked by the committee was what her favorite treat was to make, she said. "Peanut brittle," she answered. After the signing Bullock asked Wilson if she had any secret recipes or ingredients. "Lots of stuff," she said with a smile Bachmeier said after the signing that he was glad that everything worked out and the bill was signed. "It's really great to have this all wrapped up," Bachmeier said. "It's been a really fun experience working with Keeley and the Department of Agriculture and some other members on the agriculture committee, but it's certainly nice to have it finished up, and I'm glad that we can keep Keeley's business going." Stewart Wilson said that he was happy the bill was signed. "Glad we got the process over and we are ready to move on," he said. He said he helps his daughter with the business. Keeley was diagnosed as an infant with the developmental disability Williams syndrome, and also has been diagnosed with a wide span of other medical issues such as common variable immune deficiency, narcolepsy and seizures. Because of her health issues she cannot work a regular job and having her own business with her family allows for someone to be near her at all times in case of an emergency. She said the whole experience has been pretty good and it was fun to be able to work with everyone to get the bill passed. "I just want to say thank you to Jacob," Keeley said. Her father said that he hopes his daughter's business will be able to grow a little bit now that the bill has passed. He added that working with Bachmeier was a positive experience for them and he hopes that now that the bill has passed more small businesses like Keeley's will be able come forward. "It was kind of cool to see how the process should work," Wilson said. Support for adults with disabilities With high school graduation right around the corner, Andrea Melle said that she can rest easier knowing that House Bill 726 passed. Bachmeier said that he is really proud that Melle had brought the issue to their attention. "This was a very important piece of legislation to pass this session," Bachmeier said. "It will help provide important resources and income for vulnerable Montanans." He said that Melle has been a really great person to work with during the session. He added that he went to school with her children and, after he graduated high school, got to know her better through the campaign process for his first term as a state representative. Melle's daughter, Kerrie, 22, and son, Drew, 19, both have autism spectrum disorder and require her constant attention. After her son graduates from Havre High School later this year, Melle would have lost the child support payments she needs to care for her family. In July 2005, she found out both of her kids were autistic and in 2015 her divorce from her husband was finalized. When she was going through her divorce she was told by her attorney a law required lifetime support for children with special needs. But as the proceedings continued, her attorney then told her such a law didn't exist. To hire a full-time caregiver would cost $20 an hour, costing her more than $40,000 a year, she said. The caregiver would also not be able to get her children involved with the community the way she does and they would have to stay in the house for most of the day. Melle added that she can't find a job which would cover the cost. Another option would to be to put her children in a home for their care, which would cost anywhere from $80,000 to $100,000 dollars a year. She added that she would never consider that choice, in her opinion it would not be the right choice for her family. She said that this legislative session she has been more involved than ever before, adding that the experience was overwhelming and very scary but ultimately rewarding. She said that there are a number of families all across the state that struggle with losing their child support after their children with special needs graduate high school. Melle added that many people who are not on this position don't know that there was no law protecting children with special needs. "I didn't know that it wasn't a law, either, until I was put into this situation," she said. Bachmeier said that the biggest accomplishment with the bill is the fact that vulnerable Montanas are going to be able to continue to get resources into adulthood. Many people didn't know that child support did not continue once children with special needs become adults. Now that the bill has passed, single parents who are also caretakers for their children with special needs are protected. "I think that's important for the health and wellbeing for the family involved," he said. "... I think it was kind of shocking when she brought that to our attention and, you know, unless you are in that specific situation, you probably wouldn't know." Melle said that the bill will help a lot of families who are struggling with similar situations to her own. "It feels pretty good that I put myself out there and worked hard and got something that should have been done a long time ago into law," she said. She added that she was worried that she would get a lot of backlash for speaking out, but throughout the process she got no negative feedback which was encouraging. "It's nice to have people who realized that and are nice," she said. Bachmeier said he was surprised by the amount of support they got for the bill during the legislative session. "Truthfully, we didn't think it was going to pass," he said. The bill was introduced late in the session, he said, and political tensions were running high in the Legislature. Every step of the way he and Caferro were nervous that the bill could be killed at any time. But they were both happily surprised when it passed through both the House and the Senate and was signed by the governor. Bachmeier added that everyone in the Legislature ended up seeing the importance of the bill. "We thought basically at every step of the way it was going to die, but we are glad that it got through," he said. The bill passed its final reading in the House 65-34 with Bachmeier, Kassmier and Windy Boy voting in favor and Knudsen against. It passed its final reading in the Senate 43-7 with Sens. Mike Lang, R-Malta, Frank Smith, D-Poplar, and Russ Tempel, R-Chester, all voting for it. Melle said that now the bill is signed she is going to take a moment to breathe, and after the bill takes effect July 1, will start moving forward to protect her children and arrange support for them. Havre Daily News/Derek Hann Keeley Wilson looks on as Gov. Steve Bullock, center, shakes the hand of her father, Stewart Wilson. Bullock signed into law Tuesday a bill Keeley Wilson requested governing the regulation of small pet treat businesses and one requested by Andre Melle extending the period child support must be paid for adults with disabilities. She said she will never be able to be as active as she was during this year's legislative session because of her being a full-time caregiver for her children, but she plans to still be involved to some extent and continue to fight from home. Both Caferro and Bachmeier worked hard this session, she said, adding that working with both of them was a pleasure. "Jacob has been so supportive and listens to me," Melle said. "He is a great guy and we are lucky to have him representing us in Helena." "I think most of the credit should go to Andrea and Mary," Bachmeier said. "Certainly I was happy to co-sponsor the bill and provide support to it and help lobby for it, but Andrea is the one who brought the situation to us." Melle said that through this process she learned that no matter who someone is they can always work to make positive changes. "It just goes to show that you can't be intimidated by something," she said. "You've got to fight for something that you believe in because you can make changes, you can make changes for the good. ... You can't sit by and let things fly by and think someone else is going to do it, you have to go get it yourself." The results from Tuesdays school elections are in, with many having elections by acclamation with only one candidate running for each seat. Havre Public Schools had an election by acclamation, with Teresa Miller retaining her seat on the board and Brian Williams taking the seat vacated by Wayne Bolken, who did not run for re-election. In Chinook, voters cast ballots on mill levies, approving a $27,186.09 levy for the elementary district, an increase of about $8.32 for a home with a market value of $100,000, 222-109. The Chinook voters also approved a high school mill levy for $12,125.93, an increase of about $2.01 for a home with a market value of $100,000, on a 272-138 vote. Several trustees were elected by acclamation. Vanessa Schoen was elected in the Bear Paw High School District #10, Kevin Elias and Scott DePriest in Chinook District #10 and Ernest Johnson in Zurich High School District #17. In Box Elder, two trustees were elected by acclamation to two positions. Marquita Jilot took a three-year term and Joseph. D. Rosette Jr. took a one-year term. In Harlem, no election was held and Kathleen Adams retained her seat by acclamation. In Hays-Lodge Pole, Tescha A. Hawley took a one-year term with 52 votes, while Suzi Jo Kirkaldie received 43 votes and write-in candidate Marla Doney received 24 votes. Louis C. Werk won a three-year term with 80 votes, while Nathan Martin received 72, Jay W. Mount received 38 and John K. Hawley received 30. At Chester-Joplin-Inverness Schools, three positions were filled by acclamation. Melissa Kantorowicz took a two-year seat and Jeff Mattson and Lori Woods each took a three-year seat. In North Star Schools, voters approved a $15,788.24 levy for the high school, an about $1,82 increase on a home with a market value of $100,000, 257-56, and approved an elementary school levy of $17,892.42, an about $2.16 increase on a home with a market value of $100,000, with 253 votes for and 57 against. A trustee position was open but no candidates filed, so the position will have to be filled by appointment. At Rocky Boy Schools, voters gave India Blatt-Demontiney a three-year term with 53 votes. Wilma Jean Tyner received 33 votes, Alex Earl Belgarde 20, Paulette Standing Rock 17, Laurie Ann Sunchild 16, and Matthew Matt Denny 4. In Turner Public Schools, three candidates ran for two three-year terms. Lorin A. Krass with 104 votes and William G. Ammen with 74 votes were elected to the position, while incumbent Shannon Van Voast lost the seat with 69 votes. In Big Sandy, Brad Weaver ran unopposed for a three-year term, and Kelly Rutledge won a three-way race for a two-year seat. Rutledge took 157 votes, while Jeri Proulx Roth took 125 and Glenn C. Terry took 118. Results from Cottonwood and Davey schools were not available by printing deadline this morning. Drugs used to target HER2-positive invasive breast cancer may also be successful in treating women in the first stages of the disease, researchers at The University of Nottingham have discovered. The findings, published in the British Journal of Cancer and led by experts in the Universitys School of Medicine, suggest that extending anti-HER2 drugs to this group of women could halt the progression of the disease in many cases and potentially save lives. Professor Emad Rakha, the lead author of the study, said: Our mission at Nottingham is to reduce the mortality of breast cancer and these results suggest that drugs which we know are already being used effectively and safely in patients with aggressive, invasive forms of the disease, could help improve the prognosis for those in its earliest stages. We hope this work will underpin further research, which will translate into real benefits for the patients who are affected by this devastating disease. Cell mutation Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and the second most common cause of cancer-related death in women in the UK. Around 20 per cent of cases picked up through mammogram screening is the earliest type of breast cancer known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), in which some cells of the milk ducts within the breast mutate into cancerous cells. Over the last decade, the rates of DCIS have risen by almost 46 per cent. While not life-threatening in itself, it needs to be treated, otherwise in up to 50 per cent of cases it can progress to a more invasive form of the disease, spreading to the soft tissue of the breast. The HER2 gene is already closely associated with aggressive, invasive breast cancer and is already treated using the drug trastuzumab, more commonly known as Herceptin. The Nottingham study looked at breast tissue from 776 women treated at Nottingham City Hospital between 1990 and 2012 for DCIS. It also collected information from 239 cases of DCIS and invasive breast cancer for comparison. Following up on cases between two months and 20 years later, the team found that out of 308 patients treated with breast conserving surgery alone, the disease had reoccurred in 67 people (22 per cent). More than half of those (57 per cent) had gone on to develop aggressive, invasive breast cancer. Among the 93 cases treated with surgery and radiotherapy, the cancer came back in eight patients two with invasive breast cancer and six with DCIS. DNA error Detailed study of the tissue found that the gene HER2 was present in 20 per cent of DCIS cases compared with 12 per cent in the invasive breast cancer samples. The study also discovered that the HER2-specific cancer occurred as a result of a mutation caused by too many copied of the HER2 gene being produced and an error in the DNA replication and repair machinery. While the frequency of HER2 in DCIS was largely in line with invasive breast cancer, treatment which targets the gene is currently limited to those affected by more aggressive forms of the disease. The researchers suggest that screening women with DCIS for HER2 may help to identify those at greater risk of developing more invasive forms of the disease. Current treatments targeting HER2 could also potentially be extended to DCIS patients to reduce the chance of the cancer spreading and reduce the number of HER2-related deaths. Ends Our academics can now be interviewed for broadcast via our Media Hub, which offers a Globelynx fixed camera and ISDN line facilities at University Park campus. For further information please contact a member of the Communications team on +44 (0)115 951 5798, email pressoffice@nottingham.ac.uk or see the Globelynx website for how to register for this service. For up to the minute media alerts, follow us on Twitter Notes to editors: The University of Nottingham is a research-intensive university with a proud heritage, consistently ranked among the worlds top 100. Studying at the University of Nottingham is a life-changing experience and we pride ourselves on unlocking the potential of our 44,000 students Nottingham was named both Sports and International University of the Year in the 2019 Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, was awarded gold in the TEF 2017and features in the top 20 of all three major UK rankings. We have a pioneering spirit, expressed in the vision of our founder Sir Jesse Boot, which has seen us lead the way in establishing campuses in China and Malaysia part of a globally connected network of education, research and industrial engagement. We are ranked eighth for research power in the UK according to REF 2014. We have six beacons of research excellence helping to transform lives and change the world; we are also a major employer and industry partner locally and globally. Impact: The Nottingham Campaign, its biggest-ever fundraising campaign, is delivering the Universitys vision to change lives, tackle global issues and shape the future. More news Story credits More information is available from Professor Emad Rakha in the School of Medicine, University of Nottingham on +44 (0)1159691169 ext 56416,emad.rakha@nottingham.ac.uk New research shows that maternal weight status at the start of pregnancy, rather than weight gain during pregnancy, is strongly related to the risk of pregnancy complications for mothers and infants. Obesity among women of reproductive age is a major problem for society. Results from this new study, involving the University of Southampton and published in JAMA, showed that overweight and obesity at the start of pregnancy are highly prevalent. Pregnancy complications in mothers and their infants occurred in 34 per cent of women with a normal weight and in more than 60 per cent of women with severe obesity at the start of their pregnancy. Of all women with very severe obesity and a high amount of gestational weight gain, over 90 per cent experienced pregnancy complications. The amount of weight gain during pregnancy had a much smaller effect on the absolute risk of these pregnancy complications than weight before pregnancy. These findings have major implications for health care during pregnancy and at delivery. Rather than focusing on maternal weight gain during pregnancy, strategies are needed to optimize maternal weight before the start of pregnancy to improve pregnancy outcomes. These findings are the result of a large-scale international collaboration, led by the Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam. The authors analysed more than 190,000 mother and child pairs from 25 studies from Europe and the USA. Keith Godfrey, Professor of Epidemiology and Human Development at the University and part of the research team, said: A large amount of evidence indicates that achieving a healthy weight prior to conception is of paramount importance in reducing the risk of pregnancy complications and helping the next generation to have the best life chances. The new findings demonstrate the serious implications of the ongoing epidemic of obesity for individuals. The findings stress the importance of developing new interventions before and during pregnancy to reduce the risks of maternal obesity for the mother and her baby, and to help mothers achieve a healthy weight prior to conception. Public Health England have published a suite of resources which can help in planning and preparation for pregnancy to improve outcomes for mothers and babies major initiatives are needed to apply these throughout the health care system. Our findings highlight the importance for further studies focused on the optimal amount of gestational weight gain among severely obese women, also including adverse outcomes such as still birth and infant death, which were not available in our study. We believe that our findings should be considered by future updates of clinical guidelines. The research involved more than 60 international researchers from 16 countries who work together in the EU Horizon 2020 funded LifeCycle Project Maternal Obesity and Childhood Outcomes Group. The LifeCycle Project is a large collaboration focused on innovative research on the role of novel integrated markers of early-life stressors that influence health across the lifecycle using an open and long-term network of pregnancy and birth cohorts. University of Southampton HPD officer justified in shooting at armed fleeing suspect, D.A. says Hendersonville Police Officer Keenan Nesbitt was justified when he fired at a suspect who pulled a gun as he ran from the officer down an alley in downtown Hendersonville, District Attorney Greg Newman announced. The Hendersonville police received a call on April 22 about a man with a firearm outside Hannah Flanagan's, which is against the law. The gun owner, later identified as Robert Gregory Robinson, exposed his gun both inside and outside the establishment. When approached by officer Nesbitt and asked to stand up, the suspect - who was later identified as Robinson fled the scene on foot while simultaneously pulling out his handgun. Officer Nesbitt, who was shouting instructions to Robinson to stop and drop his weapon, fired at Robinson, striking him in the arm. Robinson was arrested, treated at the hospital and taken into custody. It is customary in any police use-of-force encounter for the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation to review the matter to determine if the law enforcement officers actions were reasonable and necessary in the circumstances, Newman said. I met with the investigators and they briefed me on their findings. It was clear to the SBI agents, and certainly to me, that officer Nesbitt handled the situation very well. I can say without any hesitation that he is cleared of any criminal liability. I directed the SBI to return Nesbitts service weapon to him and have communicated my decision to Chief Blake. We have a professional police department and they do a great job enforcing our laws and protecting our people." Newman declined to comment more specifically on the facts since Robinson has pending cases from the incident. Robinson, due in the Henderson County District Court on May 14, faces the felony charges of Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Altering a Serial Number of a Firearm and two unrelated misdemeanor charges. Photo: Facebook/Cody Futerko The Crown wants a year in jail for a man convicted of running naked through a grocery store and into a meat cooler in northern Saskatchewan. The prosecution also wants Calvin John Jobb to pay the Prince Albert Superstore almost $200 to cover food that had to be thrown out after his jog down the aisles. Jobb, who is 51, pleaded guilty to charges, including indecent exposure and mischief, related to his actions in early March. The defence wants a six-month term for Jobb and says he was hallucinating, scared and very hot after taking what he thought was marijuana. Court heard during sentencing arguments on Monday that Jobb swung a broom stick, yelled at customers, damaged cash registers, threw meat and jumped into a meat cooler. He is to be sentenced May 22. An eight-year employee described Jobb as acting like a wild animal and yelling just shoot me when police tried to arrest him. Prosecutor Gail Douglas said it took four officers to get Jobb out of the store and, at one point, he grabbed one of the officers Tasers. Legal-aid lawyer Robert Rooney said his client was "in pretty rough shape" on the day in question. He knew he was consuming something. He didnt know exactly what it was and he found that terrifying. Rooney said Jobb has been seeking help to get and stay sober. He said the public shaming on social media has been difficult for Jobb. Im sure just the Facebook aspects of this case would deter someone from doing this, Rooney said. He is hoping to get on with his life. MORE than 50 people helped clear rubbish from the Thames towpath between Sonning and Shiplake. Twenty-five adults and 30 children, including staff and pupils from Shiplake College, took part in the event, which was organised by the Shiplake Outloars rowing club for the fourth year running. Some walked the path picking up litter while others were in boats and canoes provided by the college and Marlow Canoe Hire. Those on the water also helped to clear streams including the weir stream near the French Horn at Sonning. The volunteers filled more than 20 bin bags with rubbish, mostly food wrappers, and a large number of glass bottles. They also found a number of discarded hypodermic syringes and some collapsible road signs of the kind used during roadworks. The volunteers were mostly from Shiplake, Sonning and Wargrave, although there was one visitor from London who has family living in the area. Organiser Guy Fisher said: The middle section of the path near the reeds was particularly bad and it was alarming to see how many hypodermic needles had been discarded. I get the sense that a lot of the rubbish was discarded in Reading and had floated downstream, although its hard to say for certain. Our efforts certainly improved the look of the area and made it a much nicer place for animals to live. I'm pleased to say this has grown every year. Its meant to be a fun day and I think most people did enjoy themselves. They had the chance to be out on a beautiful part of the river while making a difference in their community. A grand opening community festival will celebrate the new Peachland Pier on Saturday. Bring the family for an afternoon of outdoor games, an artisan marketplace, and live music from 1 to 5 p.m. The Peachland Pier Group organizing committee will be handing out carnations to the first 450 moms to celebrate the Mothers Day weekend. Our three local service clubs Sportsmens Association, Peachland Lions Club and the Rotary Club of Peachland have delivered on our goal to build a new wheelchair accessible pier in downtown Peachland, says Eldon Kerbes, committee chair. We have completed the project and are now handing over ownership of the pier to the community of Peachland. The pier is the first of its kind on Okanagan Lake and adds accessibility to spectacular views from Peachlands downtown waterfront. Often teenagers don't realise the impact of their behaviour when they take sides with one another. Q: My 14-year-old daughter has started refusing to go to school. She says she's afraid to leave the house. She sometimes talks to her guidance counsellor. She has always been quite an anxious child, never wanting to leave my side, tantrums before going into school. I often wonder if her birth affected her. She was born premature and was in intensive care for over three weeks. I managed to breastfeed her before she came out of hospital and for months after that too, but I worry it's affected our bonding. A: Firstly I want to acknowledge the journey you and your daughter have made. You must have been so emotionally and physically vulnerable after her birth that it's remarkable you managed to breastfeed at all. Many mothers are unable to feed after the traumatic experience of childbirth and they then feel guilty. You say you worry about the bonding between you. I find the word 'bonding' so impersonal. It places an unrealistic expectation on new mothers who are often unsupported in their communities. It fails to acknowledge the intensely unique experience of mothering. Being curious about how her birth experience may be shaping her posture in the world now will help you connect and attune to her. In 2017, researchers found that adults who were born premature experience more anxiety than adults who were delivered as full-term babies. It's also worth considering that transitions can trigger separation anxiety in teenagers. The need to separate from our parents is a transitioning process. The move into adolescence and secondary school is a major transitional achievement. It is not a given. These changes can provoke anxiety and fear in early adolescents. The world is becoming bigger, more unfamiliar and her peers may appear to be developing faster than she is. She may be concerned that she's not ready to move at their pace, that she is not ready for the enormous panorama that's opening out before her. You can help to normalise her experience by talking about how you remember your 15-year old-friend's daughter hating being 15 because she didn't want to kiss boys or go to discos, she just wasn't ready for all that stuff and that's okay. She may be insecure about increasing her life-space by going to a counsellor outside school. It may seem safer to stay in her home. If you find that the school counselling isn't helping her, I would sit firmly into a directional parenting role and tell her that you want her to see a therapist so she can feel less frightened in the world, so that she can go out and live her life. Explain that you will be in the room with her. If that doesn't work, you could seek phone or Skype adolescent counselling. Check out blackfortinstitute.ie Q: My daughter, who is 15 has completely changed since she fell out with her best friend a month ago. They've been friends since they were 10 and went everywhere together. They were part of a group of girls in school, but now they just completely ignore my daughter. She is totally heartbroken and hates going into school. She says she feels so embarrassed and stupid, that she is the problem, not them. She's also started to say she wants to change schools. In the mornings she can be verbally abusive and will start a fight with us for no reason at all. A: Your daughter is spinning in a spiral of shame. At 15 her friends are the most important people in her world. This is the age when her friends co-create her identity formation, they make her feel safe and part of a community. She develops her independence from her family within this peer culture. Now she has been cast adrift by the people who matter most to her. Every day she has to face them and try to deal with this intensely public rejection. Shame is the experience of not being received by the people who matter most to me. The more important the people, the more potential there is for shame to be activated. Her response to this humiliation is to blame herself. She thinks that she is the 'problem'. Instead of realising that the problem lies in her social group which is not supporting her. Because she is overwhelmed her self-criticism then becomes thrown back at you in her verbally aggressive behaviour. I notice it happens at the time when she has to drag herself into school each day. So there are plenty of reasons for her to want to fight, as she is unable to contain what's happening inside her. And she has no power to change what's happening in her environment. She needs to hear that she is not the 'problem'. That she is a loveable, precious human being who had a row with a friend. No big deal, it happens all the time. People fight, make -up and move on. When we exclude someone from a group it is a form of bullying. That maybe these friends aren't her friends if they can treat her this way. She deserves friends who make her feel good about herself, that make her feel valued. I'd encourage her to develop other friendships inside and outside school. If you haven't already, I would speak to her year head or the principal about the situation. Let your daughter know that this is really important as the school needs to be informed. They can then talk to the students involved to try and resolve the situation. Often teenagers don't realise the impact of their behaviour when they take sides with one another. The year head can then check in with your daughter each day. I'd also start suggesting activities or days out so she has things to look forward to. If the school is not supportive of your daughter or, if you notice she is more distressed, it may be worth considering changing schools in the future. Hopefully that is not a choice you will have to make. A young man and a 17-year-old boy have appeared in court charged over a taxi hijacking in Dublin. The pair were remanded in custody after being charged with assaulting and robbing the taxi driver (59), who suffered serious head and facial injuries in the incident shortly after midnight on Monday. The teenage boy, who cannot be named, and Peter Collins (25) are both charged with assault causing harm and robbing the man of 50 cash in Rutland Grove, Crumlin. Dublin Children's Court heard that the boy made no reply when the charges were put to him. Citing the seriousness of the charges, Garda Gary Cleary objected to bail in the teenager's case. Assault He told Judge Brendan Toale that the case involved an alleged hijacking and a serious assault. He alleged that the taxi collected two males and two females and drove them to Rutland Grove. It stopped and the teenage defendant, who was in the front passenger seat, "punched the driver a number of times", he alleged. Another passenger used a suspected phone charger cable and attempted to strangle the driver, the garda said. He was punched repeatedly and "dragged" out of the car and assaulted as he was on the ground, the court heard. Gda Cleary said the driver was bleeding heavily and an ambulance brought him to hospital, where he remained yesterday. Footage of the incident was captured on an internal camera in the car, Judge Toale heard. Gda Cleary agreed with defence counsel Alison Fynes that directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) were not yet available. The Children's Court could still consider accepting jurisdiction even if the DPP had directed a trial in the Circuit Court, which can impose lengthier sentences. Pleading for bail, counsel said the teen would abide by a strict curfew and heightened signing-on conditions. The boy, who was accompanied to court by a social worker, did not address the court. Judge Toale refused to grant bail and remanded the youth in custody to appear again next week. He noted that the defence had requested the DPP to expedite issuing directions because the youth was approaching his 18th birthday when he would become an adult. Legal aid was granted. Later Mr Collins, of Collinstown Crescent, Clondalkin, appeared before Judge Bryan Smyth at Dublin District Court. Garda Alice Neville said she arrested Mr Collins for the purpose of charge on Monday evening and he made no reply after caution at 6.32pm. Gardai were also objecting to bail in Mr Collins' case, the officer said. Defence solicitor Amanda Connolly said no bail application was being made at this time. Judge Smyth remanded the accused in custody, to appear in Cloverhill District Court on May 14. He assigned free legal aid after an application was made by Ms Connolly. Mr Collins, who was dressed in a grey tracksuit, was not required to speak during the brief hearing. Neither accused has indicated how they intend to plead to the charges. Two females were released from garda custody and a file will be prepared for the DPP. Marion Walshe and Starbucks assistant Jonathan Fitzpatrick wearing the T-shirt that Marion has had made to thank him A stroke victim whose life was saved by the fast actions of a coffee shop assistant has described him as her real-life hero. Jonathan Fitzpatrick (25) called an ambulance when he spotted signs Marion Walshe might be suffering from a stroke - the same signs he learned to watch out for after his own mum had a similar condition. Marion, from Slane, Co Meath, had been attributing dizzy spells to vertigo, not knowing that they were being caused by a bleed on the brain. The dizziness was accompanied by nausea when she went for a cup of tea at Starbucks in Drogheda's Laurence Street Centre, a visit which effectively saved her life. "I went for a cup of tea and felt sick but I thought I had picked up a vomiting bug from visiting my husband Joe in hospital," Marion said. "I remember trying to ask a young girl where the toilet was but I couldn't get the words out and could only point at the door. "I got sick on myself and managed to get to the toilet where I was sick again. I remember a knock at the door and a voice asking if I was all right. It was Jonathan. "I didn't think I had any symptoms of a stroke, just a weak feeling down my left leg, but thankfully Jonathan noticed that something was wrong and called an ambulance. Doctors told me he saved my life." Jonathan played down his heroic actions, saying anyone else would have done the same. Slumped "I saw her slumped in the chair and noticed she had been a little bit sick so I asked her if she was ok and if she wanted to use the toilet," he said, adding that he advised her to use the emergency chord if necessary. "I saw she hadn't returned 10 minutes later so I went to check on her and help her back to the chair. "She was slurring her words and I asked her to look at me when I noticed she seemed to have tunnel vision. It was when I asked her to smile that I knew something was wrong. Half her face was drooped. "I asked my manager to ring for an ambulance. I didn't want anything to happen to her on my watch - I would've even paid for the ambulance myself. "It's basic human nature to look out for others and all this attention is a bit overwhelming. "It's showed that it should be acceptable to ask people if they are ok. Sometimes you get a cutting reply of 'why shouldn't I be ok?' but in this instance, it was the right thing to do." Marion, who spent five weeks recovering in hospital, has publicly thanked Jonathan and has even had a T-shirt made with the words 'you are my hero'. "He is my hero and I want to say thank you for all he did," she added. "He's a shining example for others for caring. He's so honest, he even got his colleague to put the money I paid for the tea back into my pocket when I was leaving in the ambulance. "There should be more Jonathans in the world." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and ministers at the launch of the plan at the Department of Justice and Equality Homes in rural Ireland will have better internet access than Dublin as part of the 3bn plan to roll out fibre broadband. The ambitious plan involves taxpayers subsidising broadband at an average cost of 5,000 per house over 25 years. The Government has promised to bring a fibre connection to every home and business, regardless of their location. A new company, National Broadband Ireland (NBI), is to be established and it is expected the roll-out will begin before the end of the year. NBI will effectively piggyback on the existing network of telephone poles, which are maintained by Eir, to bring cables around the country. It will take seven years for the most remote properties to be reached. Explosive Opposition parties have rounded on the Government for making the announcement just weeks out from the local elections. The Herald has learned of an "explosive" memo prepared by the Department of Public Expenditure, which warned ministers of an "unprecedented risk" to the Exchequer. The intervention area covers 540,000 homes and businesses, impacting on 1.1 million people. A target of reaching 133,000 homes in the first two years has been set. After that between 70,000 and 100,000 homes will be added each year. It means rural Ireland will be the best-connected place in Europe, while cities are dependent on existing copper wire infrastructure. However, Rural Affairs Minister Michael Ring argued people in the regions had "waited long enough". "There's nobody out there, particularly in Dublin, who could be complaining about proper broadband in rural Ireland," he said. The plan is to provide fibre broadband to 98pc of all premises with speeds starting from 150mb/s, rising to 500mb/s over the next decade for residential users and much higher speeds available for business. The remaining 2pc may have to be provided with an alternative wireless offering because of geographical or cost factors. Ministers are desperate to avoid accusations that they have allowed the project's cost to rise in a similar fashion to the National Children's Hospital. As a result the contract, which won't be formally signed until later this year, includes a maximum pay-out of 2.97bn. This includes 545m for a contingency fund in case specific issues arise. Permission Cabinet debated the project for more than four hours yesterday before unanimously giving Communications Minister Richard Bruton permission to proceed. Among the documents provided to ministers was a six-page memo from the Department of Public Expenditure which strongly urged that the plan be scrapped. Sources told the Herald there was surprise at the strength of the language used in the "explosive memo". It is understood to have warned of an "unprecedented risk" to the State's finance. Officials named a number of other projects, including roads upgrades and primary care centres, that may have to be delayed to allow funding to be diverted to broadband. The memo also suggested that the 3bn commitment would result in fewer social houses being built in the coming years. "It wasn't just advising on the project, it was strongly against the idea and even mentioned a potential breach of the public spending code," said a source. However, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe went against his senior officials to back the investment. He assured colleagues that extra capital funding would be provided so that other projects were not impacted. Speaking afterwards, Mr Donohoe said his department has performed its "challenge function very robustly". Benefit He backed the awarding of the contract on the basis that the plan is "far reaching" and "in the common good of all of our citizens". Top officials in the Department of Communication suggested the financial benefit to every home would be about 12,000. For a business this jumps to 15,200, while farmers will benefit by 7,200. The deal includes a 'claw-back' mechanism that allows the State to claim excess profits if take-up is higher than predicted or if expenditure is lower. Fianna Fail's communications spokesman, Timmy Dooley, said: "Fine Gael's plan not only flies in the face of official advice that it is poor value for money, but it simply doesn't make sense." The effects of social media on the life satisfaction of teenagers are "trivial" in size, a new study suggests. Spending more time on sites such as Facebook has a limited impact on how content adolescents are with their lives, according to the research. Professor Andrew Przybylski, from the University of Oxford, said the findings suggest society should focus on whether particular aspects of online behaviour are harmful, instead of focusing on screen time. "Social media effects are nuanced, reciprocal, possibly contingent on gender, and arguably trivial in size," the authors wrote. Previous research was largely based on correlations, making it difficult to determine if social media use led to changes in life satisfaction or vice versa. The new study analysed data on 12,000 British teenagers. Lower life satisfaction led to an increase in social media use and social media use led to lower life satisfaction, but the trends were "modest", the authors said. These effects were more evident in females than males. Lacklustre "With most current debate based on lacklustre evidence, this study represents an important step toward mapping the effects of technology on well-being," said Prof Przybylski. He described screen time as "statistically noisy nonsense". "Time shouldn't be the thing that parents are worrying about," he said. Dr Max Davie, from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, said: "This paper suggests that social media has limited effect on teenage life satisfaction. "However, there are still issues around screen time more generally, and a risk that screen time may interfere with other important activities like sleep, exercise and spending time with family or friends." Photo: Colin Dacre Student Claire Taylor urging city council to ban single-use plastic bags Students at Penticton Secondary got to see how the sausage is made with a city council meeting held in the high schools library Tuesday afternoon. The meeting saw a pair of student delegations lobby council on two issues; downtown safety and a proposed ban on single-use plastic bags. We the youth do not feel safe in the downtown core, said Emily Oakes. We cannot walk by ourselves, we have to travel in packs. She said students walking to school in the morning face dirty needles, drug use and intoxicated individuals. Oakes cited the controversial Macleans Magazine annual rankings of dangerous cities in Canada, which ranked Penticton 17th in 2019. That list has been heavily criticized by most policing agencies in Canada for being unfair to mid-sized communities (Surrey was ranked 164 in 2019). Oakes asked for council to expand the See Something Say Something campaign and install blue lights in public washrooms to deter intravenous drug use. Trust me, we are in constant meetings with the RCMP, and we are doing the best we can, responded Mayor John Vassilaki. Coun. Julius Bloomfield explained to Oakes that they are hopeful emergency housing coming online later this summer will make a difference. Student Claire Taylor also appeared before council to urge the city to ban single-use plastic bags, following the lead of Victoria or Salmon Arm. Taylor spoke about the need for society to wean itself off its dependence on plastics, pointing to litter problems caused by the bags. Our time window to change the way we treat this planet is narrowing, so we must act now, and I believe that this step would be a good place to start, Taylor said. Yes plastic bags are convenient, but are they worth the convenience for the damage they are doing to the world. Taylors very articulate presentation was warmly received by councillors. Well done, please dont give up, said Coun. Jake Kimberley Educate us old people, because weve become addicted to coming to the store and having the bag filled for you and carrying it out. Taylor heard plans are in motion to bring in a plastic bag ban across the region. Talks are underway with the Okanagan Valleys municipalities and three regional districts to coordinate a ban on single-use plastic bans handed out by retailers. I think youve represented not only yourself but your generation, because this is where it has to start, Coun. Judy Sentes told Taylor. We have to start somewhere. Dont be daunted. Sentes encouraged Taylor to expand her efforts and activism to include plastic straws. Photo: SD22 Nearly 100 students, Okanagan Indian Band elders and community members gathered around 6 Mile Creek on the traditional territory of the Okanagan Syilx people for a ceremony to release more than 25,000 sockeye salmon fry. Earlier this year, students from Ben Louis and Brian McDougalls classes agreed to work with Kathy Morgan and Rhonda Phillip, Aboriginal support workers from Alexis Park Elementary School. The team worked with the Okanagan Nation Alliance FINS program and the Okanagan Indian Band to be the first school in the district to raise sockeye fry. The students learned about the importance of protecting the environment along with the cultural importance of salmon to the Syilx people. At school, the students heard the captikwt (story system) of How Food Was Given. At the ceremony, as elder Madeline Gregoire led the salmon ceremony, which included a prayer for the water, air and land, the students made a real connection with ntitiyix (salmon), chief of all the creatures that live in the water. Each person navigated the steep bank, taking great care to protect their fry until it was time to wish them well on their journey, with the hope they will one day return. Photo: The Canadian Press Conservative MP Mark Warawa used his emotional farewell address to the House Commons on Tuesday to call for changes that will ensure more Canadians have access to palliative care. Warawa, who is facing his own battle with cancer, also urged parliamentarians "to love one another, to encourage each other, because God loves us." Lawmakers from different political parties struggled to hold back tears as they paid tribute to the veteran British Columbia MP, who was first elected to the House of Commons in 2004. He received his cancer diagnosis after he'd publicly announced in January he would retire from politics. In April, he said doctors had found cancer in his lungs, colon and lymph nodes. The issue of palliative care became very real to him, he said, during his recent stay in hospital. He found himself "experiencing what it's like to face end of life." Warawa said statistics show that between 70 and 84 per cent of Canadians have no access to palliative care, a number he called "tragic." "We're trying to fix the body, but in some cases it's better not to do the heroic things," he said, referring to treatments like chemotherapy and surgery. "Science has shown us that you can live longer and (have) a better quality of life, in some cases, if you're given palliative care. But that was not provided to me, those options. Why is that? The system's broken and needs to be fixed." Warawa, who celebrated his 69th birthday on Tuesday, said he hopes the next Parliament will commit to legislative changes to ensure palliative care is available to more Canadians. A religious man, he retired from politics with a plan to become a chaplain with a focus on pastoral care for seniors. "I'm doing the studying and reading, and lo and behold I got sick," Warawa said. He said he hopes to stay on the job as an MP until the October election, but added he'll likely work from his constituency office in his Langley-Aldergrove riding. "I may be around for a long time, or I may be around for a short time. We don't know," said the father of five and grandfather of 10. MPs in the House of Commons stood and applauded. "We are praying for healing for you, Mark," said Ed Fast, a fellow B.C. Tory. "And Mark, I think I speak for all of us in this House when I say you will be sorely missed, you're leaving an incredible legacy behind. And that legacy includes kindness." Speaker Geoff Regan, a Liberal, said: "You leave here, sir, with our love and admiration." If elected, McDonald said one of his biggest concerns would be to make sure the city has roadway infrastructure that can handle large population growth. McDonald, who spent decades in Southern California, said he went back there several years ago, and its difficult to drive anywhere. They didnt plan on that much traffic coming and bottlenecking like in Marino Valley. They totally didnt plan it right, McDonald said. He said if Bristols population starts to grow, traffic going into the city could be impacted, and he pointed to the area around Bristol Motor Speedway as prime for development that would impact traffic. He said he wants the city to look into how it can better plan roads should it see a boom in population or continued growth in tourism similar to Southern California. McDonald also said the Viking Hall facilities need an overall upgrade, including the seating, bathrooms and floors. He said city residents he has talked to told him there isnt enough country music at Rhythm & Roots Reunion and that it should be held over two weeks rather than one. The festival had lost its country music identity, McDonald said. That program is expected to offer 12 or more scholarships and 42 internships over a three-year period by the end of the 2023 school year, plus the commitment of 6,000 head of cattle by the third year of operation, Lee said. More than $167,000 in matching funds are already in place, and the program hopes to eventually add a meat packaging facility if a $1 million funding gap can be filled. In other business, the council welcomed three new members, Blake Edwards, Bill Rush and Bradley Wynn II. Members also approved a fiscal 2019-20 operating budget that includes $1 million in new state per capita funding for projects. An additional $14 million is available to all regions on a competitive basis, but qualifying is based on interregional cooperation, Lee said. The state allocates funds for each region based on population and with just 385,000 residents, Region One receives less money than the other seven regions. When you look at the amount of money we have available, our best role is to come in and supplement, Quillen said. We dont have enough money to do great big jobs, but when we partner with people, we can supplement these other projects that find other sources of grants and programs. LEBANON, Va.A Virginia man was arraigned Tuesday morning in Russell County following the deaths of two people last week in a crash. Treymane Ferguson, 51, of Ruther Glen, Virginia, was in Russell County General District Court for an arraignment hearing, according to the countys commonwealth attorney, Zack Stoots. Ferguson requested a court appointed counsel and he continues to be held without bail. Ferguson has been charged with reckless driving and a charge of obstruction of justice. No additional charges have been made, but this is an ongoing investigation which is being conducted by the Virginia State Police, Stoots said. On Friday night, the VSP said Ferguson was traveling the wrong way on U.S. Highway 19 and crashed into another vehicle, driven by Brian Barnes, 46, who received minor injuries. A 13-year-old female passenger is being treated in Wake Forest, North Carolina, for life-threatening injuries, VSP said. Candace R. Barnes, 47, died at the scene, and Brenda Fields, 66, died at Johnston Memorial Hospital, VSP said. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. LEBANON, Va. A Virginia man was arraigned Tuesday morning in Russell County following the deaths of two people last week in a crash. Treymane Ferguson, 51, of Ruther Glen, Virginia, was in Russell County General District Court, according to county Commonwealths Attorney Zack Stoots. Ferguson, whos been charged with reckless driving and obstruction of justice because police said he refused to give a blood sample requested a court-appointed counsel, and he continues to be held without bail. No additional charges have been made, but this is an ongoing investigation, which is being conducted by the Virginia State Police, Stoots said. On Friday night, the VSP said Ferguson was traveling the wrong way on U.S. Highway 19 when he crashed into another vehicle driven by Brian Barnes, 46, who received minor injuries. A 13-year-old female passenger is being treated in Wake Forest, North Carolina, for life-threatening injuries, VSP said. Passenger Candace R. Barnes, 47, died at the scene, while another passenger, Brenda Fields, 66, died at Johnston Memorial Hospital, VSP said. Photo: The Canadian Press Neil Bruce, president and CEO of SNC-Lavalin Executives at SNC-Lavalin Group Inc. continue to ponder a Plan B that could see the company break up ahead of a potential criminal conviction. David Taylor of Toronto-based Taylor Asset Management, a shareholder of SNC-Lavalin, said the embattled engineering and construction firm's CEO and chief financial officer discussed spinning off assets which could include U.K.-based WS Atkins at a private luncheon hosted by TD Securities in Toronto. "They mentioned spinning off," Taylor said in an interview, referring to chief executive Neil Bruce and chief financial officer Sylvain Girard. "They've got great assets within that are being punished and their good assets aren't being valued properly. So they sort of hypothetically talked about crystallizing that value, and the only way you can really do that is to sell," Taylor said. The sitdown last Friday, first reported by the Globe and Mail, came a day after the company announced plans to wind down its operations in 15 countries and reported a $17-million loss in its latest quarter, precipitating a stock drop to new 10-year lows over the past few days. The discussion floated an alternative to a possible plan that SNC-Lavalin laid out for federal prosecutors last fall where the company would split in two, move its offices to the United States within a year and eventually eliminate its Canadian workforce if it didn't get a deal to avoid criminal prosecution. Confidential documents, part of a PowerPoint presentation obtained by The Canadian Press in March, described something called "Plan B" what Montreal-based SNC might have to do if it can't convince the government to grant a so-called remediation agreement to avoid criminal proceedings in a fraud and corruption case related to projects in Libya. SNC-Lavalin said in an email that it "continues to evaluate all possible scenarios to create maximum value for company shareholders." "We have publicly made it clear for several months that the company has a fiduciary obligation to its shareholders and employees to have a Plan B in place, retaining the services of external legal and financial advisers to help develop different scenarios for consideration," the company stated. "That said, no decision has yet been made, so it is premature to comment further on the subject." Here is the bad news for Trump: While approval for his handling of the economy reached a new high of 56%, his overall job approval is still a dismal 45%, according to a CNN poll. Despite the booming economy, a 54% majority still disapprove of Trumps presidency. Why is that? One reason may be that, for the past two years Trump has been fighting accusations that he committed treason by conspiring with Russia to steal the 2016 election. No one likes a traitor, even if he is a job creator. When under attack, the natural instinct is to circle the wagons. Trump has spent the first two years of his presidency feeding and tending to his base, rather than working to expand it. He lashed out with what we now know was justifiable anger at the special counsel and Democrats who accused him of being a Russian agent. Persuadable Americans did not know what to think. But now with the Mueller investigation over, and Trump cleared of any conspiracy with Russia, they might be willing to give the president a second look. We would point out that this crisis could be all but over by now if not for the vaccination holdouts. They are the ones giving the virus new opportunities to spread, making it necessary for the rest of society to continue the precautions. They are the reason this isnt over yet. Live Nativity in Lehi raises close to $45,000 for local refugees Joe Coccimiglio stood by the entrance to the live Nativity dressed as a shepherd. He animatedly told passersby the story of Mary and Joseph and their search for shelter before the birth of baby Jesus, finishing it with one evocative line: Jesus Christ was a refugee, Coccimiglio said. Coccimiglio is co-founder of the nonprofit organization A Babe is Born, which hosted its second annual live Nativity this year in Lehi. The Nativity was staffed by refugees who work as paid actors and ultimately raised nearly $45,000 in funds and goods that will benefit refugee communities in ... Once is enough when it comes to big news stories Photo: The Canadian Press Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, during a photocall with their newborn son, in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, Windsor, south England, Wednesday May 8, 2019. Royal couple Meghan and Prince Harry revealed their newborn son to the public on Wednesday, with the proud new mother declaring him "a dream." The couple, known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, posed with their son for cameras at Windsor Castle the first in a lifetime of photo calls for the two-day-old baby, who is seventh in line to the throne. They did not reveal the name of the child, known for now as Baby Sussex. Harry cradled the apparently sleeping baby, wrapped in a white blanket and wearing a matching cap, in his arms. Meghan declared motherhood to be "magic." She said the baby had "just been a dream." "He has the sweetest temperament. He's really calm," she said. Harry quipped: "I wonder who he gets that from." Asked which parent the baby took after, Harry said it was too soon to tell. "His looks are changing every single day, so who knows?" The couple left the photo call to introduce the baby to his grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. The infant is seventh in line to the British throne and is the eighth great-grandchild of 93-year-old Elizabeth, Britain's longest reigning monarch. Baby Sussex was born Monday at 5:26 a.m. (0426 GMT; 12:26 a.m. EDT) at an as-yet-undisclosed location. Family members have welcomed the new arrival, with Prince William saying on Tuesday he was "absolutely thrilled." Photo: Facebook Vancouver's feathered celebrity Canuck the Crow has suffered a loss in the nest. Shawn Bergman, the bird's human ambassador, posted on Facebook that Canuck and mate Cassiar's chicks were killed in an airborne predator attack, CTV News reports. "The attack happened going into the evening, and over the next couple of days it became evident that the attack indeed was fatal to the little ones in the nest," said Bergman. Canuck became known as a troublemaker for dive-bombing mail carriers and McDonald's patrons, and even stole a knife from an East Vancouver crime scene. Last year, the crow pair's chicks also died, just one week after hatching. with files from CTV Vancouver Photo: The Canadian Press Students are led into a recreation centre where they were reunited with parents after shooting at a suburban Denver school. Two high school students shot and killed a classmate and injured eight others at a charter school in a Colorado community that just weeks ago marked the 20th anniversary of one of the nation's worst school shootings. That Tuesday afternoon's attack at STEM School Highlands Ranch happened just miles from Columbine High School was sure to raise questions about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre, but the answer was not immediately clear. Douglas County sheriff's officials said Devon Erickson, 18, and a younger student walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire with two handguns on students in two classrooms. As gunfire echoed through the school, students hid or ran through the halls, some shouting. "No one really knew what was going on so I didn't know they were bullets," said seventh-grader Sophia Marks. "I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs." Student Nui Giasolli told NBC's "Today" show she was in her British Literature class when Erickson came in late. "He walked to the other side of the classroom where we also had another door and he opened the door. He walked back as if he was going to go back to his seat, then he walked back to the door and he closed it. The next thing I know he's pulling a gun and he's telling nobody to move," she said Wednesday. Giasolli said another student lunged at the shooter, giving the other students time to dive under the desks and flee to safety. At least one student encountered the suspects during the shooting, Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. He did not elaborate. "We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school," Spurlock said. He declined to identify the student who was shot and killed at the school. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriff's department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects without exchanging gunfire. One of the suspects was detained by the school's security guard, Spurlock said. Both suspects were students at the school and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. Josh Dutton, 18, told The Associated Press that he was close friends with Devon Erickson in middle school but hadn't seen him for four years as he went to a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Erickson wore all black, a hat and sunglasses, was significantly skinnier and didn't seem interested in talking. "He said he'd just turned 18 and he owned rifles," Dutton said. A message left at a phone number listed for Erickson's home was not immediately returned. He was scheduled to make an initial court appearance Wednesday afternoon. It was not immediately clear when the younger suspect, who has not been identified, would appear in court. The shooting took place exactly a week after a gunman killed two students and wounded four at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. It also comes nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about 7 miles in adjacent communities south of Denver. Photo: Canadian Forces Snowbirds Snowbirds flying over Penticton. Look up ... look way up. Canadas air demonstration squadron is flying back home from Comox today and passed over Kelowna. The Canadian Forces Snowbirds whizzed above Kelowna about 10 a.m. Wednesday, and some people were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the aircraft. The Snowbirds had been in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island for their annual training season and completed their last full day of training on Tuesday. Crews will continue on from Kelowna to Lethbridge and then arrive home in Moose Jaw. Over the last 50 days, the Congress, through its leaders and counsels, has made over 50 formal representations to the Election Commission of India (ECI). These representations cover a wide spectrum of violations by the party in power, from hate speech to the perverse misuse of the armed forces for political propaganda to campaigning by the PM right next to a polling station. Over this period, we have learnt some vital lessons and noticed some troubling infirmities in the manner in which the ECI operates. The ECI is the apex body charged with the superintendence, direction and control of elections under Article 324 of the Constitution of India and has been vested with expansive powers to discharge its two-fold mandate: One, to ensure a level-playing field ( LPF) for all individuals; and two, to ensure that the party in power, with the vast resources at its command, does not gain an unfair advantage. Established apex court jurisprudence of over five decades has underlined the vast reservoir of inherent power of the ECI under Article 324 to do everything to maintain LPF and added that absence of specific statutory authorisation makes no difference to this large power. More importantly, the apex court has directly connected the ECs powers to the basic structure of our Constitution through the following syllogism: LPF is necessary for free and fair elections; the latter is a sine qua non for democracy; democracy is part of basic structure and hence unamendable even by a constitutional amendment! No previous election has been as fraught with recorded violations as this one. With creative attempts to circumvent electoral laws through biopics, web series, movies, false propaganda disseminated on an unparalleled scale and other forms of surreptitious and proxy advertising, this election has seen many firsts. In many cases, the ECI has acted expeditiously and decisively. Yet this record of diligence is marred by an unprecedented reverence and deference towards PM Narendra Modi and BJP president, Amit Shah. Of the 11 complaints against Modi/ Shah, the ECI has demonstrated a visible reluctance to take action even in the most egregious of cases where there is little room for a charitable interpretation. It has given a clean chit in all the cases (decided so far) and all through unreasoned orders. Even to do this legitimisation, the ECI has taken over 30 days ( that too after SC directions) which amounts to a decision by default in the fast moving electoral window of only 60 days. One of the Commissioners has expressed dissent in several cases but no copies of dissents are supplied. Copies even of the unreasoned rejections are not uploaded expeditiously and supplied highly belatedly. Justice has a tendency to catch up with individuals in power when they least expect it. Modi, Shah and, indeed, the ECI, shall have to answer eventually to the people and to history for, among other things, their conduct and its debilitating impact on the integrity of institutions. Let us, for now, examine some key areas of reform that are urgently required. First, since the ECIs response time per complaint varies wildly (from prompt and immediate action in some to humongous delay in Modi/Shah cases), we propose that complaints be decided within a 48-hour time frame. Otherwise they become redundant and infructuous. It must be remembered that conceptually, the ECI can act only ex post facto. It is hardly ever curative and can only aspire to be prophylactic. No rewind button exists and hence decisions must be rocket fast; otherwise the wrongdoer effectively reaps the benefits of his wrongdoing with impunity. Second, there is no template for orders. As a result, orders can be detailed (as in the case of Pragya Thakur) or completely vague. All Modi/Shah responses are two paragraph ones, with no criteria, no law and no reason. Dissents, though reasoned, are never shared. Third, denial of reasons is based on the fundamental misconception that administrative orders do not require reasons, something patently contrary to several established Supreme Court (SC) judgments enunciating the salutary principle that form does not characterise the order and that all decisions having adverse civil consequences, by whatever name called, require reasons. That is also vital for superior adjudicators like High Courts and the Supreme Court to review such EC decisions effectively and meaningfully. The absence of reasons, per se, can be valid grounds to strike down a decision. The ECI must adopt a response format which explains the reasons for an offenders guilt or innocence. Fourth, the problem of institutional memory and precedents needs to be addressed. To illustrate, the ECI took action against other individuals found guilty of hate speech yet seemed content not to apply the same standard to Modi/Shah despite identical or worse language used by the latter. Numerous such cases decided by discriminatory standards prove this point. This variance of standards cannot exist in an organisation which houses seven decades worth of precedents and experiences. There must be both continuity and consistency of approach, with the standards being applied fairly and uniformly. An institution stands on the shoulders of those who came before it. Therefore, for strength and credibility, they must necessarily rely on precedents and norms of procedure, instead of the personalities of those who staff it. But above all else, like all constitutional and statutory bodies, they must uphold the rule of law. Without any exceptions. Abhishek Singhvi is a Member of Parliament; senior advocate, Supreme Court; national spokesperson, Congress; former chairman, Parliamentary Standing Committee and former Addl Solicitor General. This article is co-authored by Muhammad Khan, an advocate of the Supreme Court. The views expressed are personal Bollywood actor Arjun Kapoor has dismissed reports of his marriage, adding he will let the world know whenever he ties the knot. He was reacting to presistent rumours that often announce his wedding dates, only to be refuted later. He has been linked with Malaika Arora Khan for some time now. I am not getting married. If I am getting married I will speak about it openly. There is no reason for me to hide it. It is not something I can hide from people. If I am not hiding anything now, why will I hide my marriage? I am working now, I am not in the zone to get married. I dont care about what the world has to say. I think jumping the gun is silly, Arjun told PTI. Also read: Malaika Arora on marriage with Arjun Kapoor: There is no truth to these silly speculations The 33-year-old actor said he is aware of the constant public scrutiny on his personal life but that does not bother him much. Even if I say something, it is not necessary that people will stop writing. Speculation is a part of the profession. I have signed up for this and it comes with the territory. My personal life is not personal, it is public. Media has been gracious and respectful, including paparazzi. There is a certain dignity and sanity being maintained and I would like to keep it that way. Arjun says he has learnt to deal with the attention around his personal life. I am a public figure and I understand media has some mandates (to ask about my personal life). Some ask respectfully, while others ask to irritate you. You have to be prepared as an actor. There will be good and bad days, he adds. He further says he fully respects the opinion people have about his personal life. What people say on social media, the trolls and all is their opinion and I respect that. I dont need to agree or care about it. Now, I am in a place that it doesnt bother me. Maybe five years ago, I would have been bothered. Today, I accept what is happening. Arjun and Malaika, 45, initially kept their relationship under wraps, but are more open now. Malaika was married to actor-director-producer Arbaaz Khan but got divorced in 2017. Arjun is currently promoting Indias Most Wanted. He will next be seen in Yash Raj Films Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar, directed by Dibakar Banerjee, and Ashutosh Gowarikers period drama, Panipat. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) Follow @htshowbiz for more Bollywood actor Katrina Kaif features on the latest cover of Elle Indias and is seen relaxing at a beach in light blue silk pants, a white bralet and a jacket. Sharing the cover on their official Instagram account, Elle India wrote, Our May cover star, Katrina Kaif has remained a steadfast professional and a poker-faced public figure in the face of harsh criticism about her work and chatter about her personal life. Enveloped in confidence, Katrina can be seen donning a silk pant suit by Armaani. The diva paired her formals with a bralette by Marni. The actor recently made headlines as she joined Rohit Shetty and Karan Johar directorial Sooryavanshi where she will be sharing the screen with Ranveer Singh, Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn. The film is expected to hit the theatres in 2020. Also read: Before SOTY 2, listen to the wackiest lyrics from Karan Johars film Meanwhile, Katrinas Bharat alongside Salman Khan is set to release on Eid, June 5. Three men are facing attempted murder charges in relation to a stabbing two years ago in Vernon. Jordan Robert Kupser, born in 1996, Matthew Patterson Kler, born in 1997, and Brennan Joel Metlewsky, born in 1996, were charged earlier this month with attempted murder for a stabbing that happened on May 15, 2017 at the Sundance Apartments in the 2900 block of 43rd Avenue. A 45-year-old man was rushed to hospital in critical condition, but survived the attack. Kupser is also facing charges of possession of a controlled substance and breach of probation out of Kelowna. Actor Sonam Kapoor and her businessman husband Anand Ahuja celebrate their first wedding anniversary on Wednesday, and to mark the occasion, family members have share new pictures of the couple on social media. Everyone from Sonams mother, Sunita Kapoor, to brother Harshvardhan and father Anil Kapoor have taken to social media to share their wishes. Happy happy anniversary. Love is not about how many days, months, or years you have been together. Love is about how much you love each other every single day, wrote Sunita Kapoor. Her husband, Anil, wrote, Its been such a fantastic year for you both, and if its any indication of the life to come, you have so much love, happiness, success (and shoes) to look forward to! Happy Anniversary @anandahuja @sonamkapoor ! Love you both! Keep making #everydayphenomenal. Sonams sister and producer Rhea Kapoor, sharing a picture of the couple at a fancy party, wrote, Happy anniversary family!!!!! I love you both more than hot sauce. Anils brother and Sonams uncle, Sanjay Kapoor wrote simply, Happy anniversary @sonamkapoor @anandahuja. Sanjays wife, Maheep Kapoor wrote, Happy anniversary my cuties. #CheersToYouTwo. Meanwhile, Sonams brother, actor Harshvardhan Kapoor shared a new picture from their wedding day and wrote, Year 1 @sonamkapoor @anandahuja. Anand took to Instagram as well, and shared a romantic post about Sonam, whom he called his guiding star. Some of my favourite shoefies w my (scroll to see our first one ever) ... I love posting these not because I love shoes (and you KNOW I love shoes) but because the idea of looking down reminds me to stay present, grounded and most importantly grateful! I could tell you exactly where we were and what we were feeling at the time I took these.... Anand wrote. Today, to reflect on 1 year of marriage and 3 years being together - nothing could be more of a blessing than to have your life partner be your best friend and also be the person that is supportive but pushes you to be better... to be the person that is unconditionally loving but will tell you when youre wrong ... and to be the person that will lead you into and through your fears - not allowing you to run away from them. Happy Anniversary to my Sonam Kapoor .. youre my guiding star! ...everyday phenomenal! Follow @htshowbiz for more Karan Johars new production venture Student of the Year 2, starring newcomers Ananya Panday and Tara Sutaria, and actor Tiger Shroff, is all set to release this week. Before that, the makers held a screening of the film, attended by films cast and their families. In the pictures, Ananya and Tara are seen happily posing for the cameras. Tigers parents, actor Jackie Shroff and mother Ayesha, Karans mother Hiroo Johar and director Puneet Malhotra were also spotted. The films trailer and its various songs have already created quite a buzz around the film. Songs like The Jaawani Song, Mumbai Dilli Di Kudiyaan, Hook Up song (which features Alia Bhatt in a special appearance) and Fakira have been well received. The trailer, however, did get trolled for its larger-than-life portrayal of school life. Ayesha Shroff at SOTY 2 screening in Mumbai. Tiger Shroff arrives for the screening. Ananya shows off her T-shirt to Tiger. Ananya and Tiger pose with actor Jackie Shroff at the screening. Ananya Panday strikes a pose at the screening. Tiger Shroff with dad Jackie. Ananya Panday poses with a friend. Tara Sutaria with a friend. Karan Johars mother Hiroo at the screening. Director Puneet Malhotra at the screening. Tara poses for the camera at the screening. As a run-up to their big screen debut, actors Ananya and Tara have been appearing on the covers of a number of glossy magazines, including Hello, Elle and Brides Today. The last one also featured Tiger. Also read: Ranveer Singh reacts to Deepika Padukones Camp Barbie look at Met Gala 2019, calls her smashing Tiger plays a character called Rohan, a regular college boy who is also a kabaddi player in Student of the Year 2. He has said that the film has humanised him. This is the most different film Ive ever done till date. Its a different world, its a different me. Working on this one was like being stripped off of my powers. So, if someone will punch me, Ill bleed. I like the fact that the film has humanised me. Hes a normal college going boy, he is not a one-man army. Hes not someone who is fighting for the nation or saving someone. He is sort of saving himself. It was refreshing, Tiger told PTI in an interview. (All pictures by Varinder Chawla) Follow @htshowbiz for more DHSE Kerala Plus Two Results 2019 : Kerala Higher Secondary Examination Board (HSE) has declared the plus two or Class 12th board examination results today, on May 8. Candidates can check their plus two exam results on Kerala boards result website keralaresults.nic.in and dhsekerala.gov.in.A total of 84.33% students have passed. DHSE Kerala Plus Two Results 2019 : Follow Live updates here Pass percentage in Humanities stream- 72.8% 3,11,375 qualified for higher education Govt schools pass percent 83.4%, Higest in kozikkode and lowest in Pathanamtitta 79 schools got 100 percent 14,244 candidates get A plus grade. The DHSE Kerala plus two examination was held in March in which 3.60 lakh candidates appeared. Last year, Kerala DHSE plus two result was declare on May 10, 2018 and 83.75% students had passed. Out of 3.69 lakh students who appeared in the exam in 2018, 3.09 lakh passed. Among 14 districts, Kannur topped in pass percentage while Pathanamthitta stood last. At least 180 students scored 100% in all subjects. Seventy nine schools recorded hundred percent pass percentage. Kerala Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or Class 10 board examination result s was declared on May 6 in which 98.11% students passed. 4, 34, 727 appeared for Kerala Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or Class 10 board examination this year. How to check DHSE Kerala Plus Two Result 2019: Visit the official website of Kerala DHSE at keralaresults.nic.in or dhsekerala.gov.in. On the homepage, click on the link that reads DHSE Kerala plus two result 2019 Key in your roll number, registration number, date of birth and submit Your result will be displayed on screen Download and take its print out. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON 14,244 students secures A plus grade In Kerala plus two exam, 14, 244 students get A plus grade. Check full details here DHSE Kerala plus two results 2019: 84.33% students pass Out of the 3.5 lakh students who had appeared, a total of 84.33% students have passed this year. Check details here. DHSE Kerala plus two result declared DHSE Kerala plus two result has been declared. Check at keralaresults.nic.in Kerala DHSE result will be declared at 11 am today Officials of DHSE Kerala will declare the results of plus two exams today at 11 am. Kerala Plus two results 2019 will be released soon Kerala Board will hold a press conference anytime soon to release the plus two results. 3.6 Lakh candidates had appeared for Kerala plus two exam 3.60 lakh candidates had taken the Kerala plus two exam 2019. They will get their results today Kerala DHSE board will declare plus two results today Kerala DHSE will release the plus two or class 12th exam results today. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambanis daughter Isha Ambani has been stealing the limelight ever since her lavish wedding with Anand Piramal, and never fails to impress everyone with her sartorial fashion choices. After giving some major fashion goals with her wedding outfit, Isha once again grabbed eyeballs at the 2019 Met Gala, looking every bit dreamy in a lilac gown. For the gala, Isha opted for a breathtakingly beautiful Prabal Gurung lilac ball gown. Acing the theme of the event, Camp: Notes on Fashion, Ishas lilac gown with a plunging neckline featured beautiful feather detailing all over the shoulders and body of the dress, as well as embellishments on the torso of the gown. She accessorised her outfit with an exquisite diamond necklace, a stack of stunning rings and drop earrings. For her hairdo, Isha kept it simple with loose open curls. She added just the perfect amount of oomph to her look with dramatic kohl eyes, shimmery eyeshadow, nude lipstick, and glowing bronze-hued highlighter to round off her look perfectly. Prabal shared a series of posts on his Instagram account featuring Isha in the lilac gown looking elegant as ever. In the first post, he shared a glimpse of the stunner in the gown and wrote, ATELIER PRABAL GURUNG. The enchanting Isha Ambani is alluring in the Atelier Prabal Gurung pale violet tulle v-neck ballgown with hand embroidered crystal and ostrich feather, sunburst pleating inserts and sculptural shoulder flourette to the 2019 Met Gala celebrating Camp: Notes on Fashion. In another post shared by the designer, he posed with Isha for a happy picture. In the caption, he went on to share some insights and details about the outfit. He also shared how it took 350 hours of work to convert their vision into a beautiful dress. He wrote, The man and the muse. ATELIER PRABAL GURUNG. A collaboration among friends, we worked with the graceful and joyous Isha Ambani on her Atelier creation for months. With three fittings in Mumbai and a final Atelier appointment in New York, we enveloped her dress with over 350 hours of laborious love to bring our shared vision to life. The beautiful Isha Ambani wears the Atelier Prabal Gurung pale violet tulle v-neck ballgown with hand embroidered crystal and ostrich feather, sunburst pleating inserts and sculptural shoulder flourette to the 2019 Met Gala. He shared another breathtaking picture of the stunner on the photo-sharing application. Unabashed glamour. Our friend and muse Isha Ambani is breathtaking in the Atelier Prabal Gurung pale violet tulle v-neck ballgown with hand embroidered crystal and ostrich feather, sunburst pleating inserts and sculptural shoulder flourette for the 2019 Met Gala celebrating Camp: Notes on Fashion read the caption. Prabal had teased Ishas look on his Instagram account a few hours before the event started. He posted a close-up image of the gown and wrote, A lilac love story for a cherished muse. Guess who wants to capture the carpet in this number? The event, held inside New York Citys Metropolitan Museum of Art was also attended by Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Lady Gaga, Cardi B, Billy Porter, Kacey Musgraves, and Miley Cyrus among others. Isha tied the knot with Anand Piramal in December last year in a traditional Hindu ceremony held at the Ambani residence in Mumbai. The ceremony was attended by the whos who of B-town including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Aamir Khan, and Kiran Rao among others. Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter Nearly 10% of mock attacks launched during Indias largest ever coastal security exercise in January were successful in breaching the multilayered defences, three officials with knowledge of the matter said on condition of anonymity. It is still possible to sneak in despite a massive infrastructure upgrade, said one of the officials. The two-day exercise Operation Sea Vigil was simultaneously undertaken on the eastern and western coast to check coastal safety measures put into place after the November 2008 Mumbai attacks. As many as 166 people were killed when 10 terrorists sailed from Pakistan by boat to Mumbai on November 26, 2008, and sprayed bullets and threw grenades across targets in the city over the next three days. The officials said small boats, which are less that 20 metres in length, and are yet to get Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) remain a primary cause of concern. An AIS automatically provides information about a vessel to other ships and to coastal authorities. India has about 250,000 such small boats, according to figures available with the Indian Navy. The potential threat from smaller rogue boats is likely to be addressed as a satellite-guided friend or foe identification system of the Indian Space Research Organisation with a two-way messaging system in all local languages is finally ready for induction within the next three or four months. The system was successfully tested on about 1,100 smaller fishing boats in Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry recently. The transponders will be inducted soon, a second official said. The ill-equipped maritime police forces of coastal states are also a cause of concern for the Indian Navy, which is the lead agency for coastal security. Serviceability [or availability of boats] is as low as 50%, said a third official. Only half the boats are available when required and policemen posted to the state maritime police wings get shifted after two to three years. Sea training starts all over again, said the second official cited above. The Navy has suggested to state police forces to enlist sailors, who are about to retire, to man their maritime wings. Instead of training a new batch of policemen every three years, superannuating sailors could be inducted into the state maritime police forces, the second official said. The third official, who is also involved in analysing Operation Sea Vigil, blamed lack of adequate training, motivation and non-availability of boats with state maritime police wings for the success of mock attacks. The government is now considering doing away with state maritime police forces that are in place in the nine coastal states and four union territories, according to a senior official aware of the details.The Coast Guard, which comes under the defence ministrys jurisdiction, will now be placed under the Union home ministry and designated the National Maritime Police. The NMP or the Coast Guard will be under the operational control of the ministry of home affairs (MHA) and will function as a police force if the proposal is accepted. Operation Sea Vigil threw up some positives as well. Fishermen and coastal communities, which were involved in the exercise along the with Navy, Coast Guard and other agencies, turned out to be extremely aware and vigilant. The second official said the number of alerts about the presence of unfamiliar boats and crew they provided were up to the mark. The fishermen and coastal communities spread across Indias over 7,500 km coastline are considered as the eyes and ears of coastal security As a country, we must realise the centrality of training both in terms of capacity building and psychological requirements of the state maritime police forces. Just as the Navy painstakingly rebuilt itself after Independence, a similar single-minded effort is needed to build the state maritime police forces. Else, assets and resources will have to be increasingly committed to police the last mile instead of looking deep into the sea for incoming threats, Vice Admiral Pradeep Chauhan (retd), director of National Maritime Foundation (NMF), said, reacting to the results of the Operation Sea Vigil. Just shifting the Coast Guard from one ministry to another, in my opinion, will not solve the problem, he said reacting to the proposal of shifting the Coast Guard from the ministry of defence to the MHA. Separately, the defence ministry is considering a proposal for equipping ports in Port Blair (Andaman and Nicobar Islands) and Karwar (Karnataka), where aircraft career INS Vikramaditya is docked, with fresh Vessel Traffic Management Systems (VTMSs) as part of their security upgradation at a cost of 500 crore, according to a senior defence ministry official aware of the development who did not wish to be named. Currently, 32 key ports have a VTMS, which are used to deal with ship traffic. Sixteen more coastal radar stations will also be added for complete visibility of ships moving in the Indian Ocean Region. Three patients on ventilator support died on Tuesday night at Tamil Nadus Madurai Government Hospital due to an unexpected power failure. After the incident, the kin of the deceased patients sat on a dharna in front of the hospital seeking action against the apathy of the concerned officials. According to the relatives of the deceased, three people have died and two more who were on ventilator are fighting for life after a power cut that continued for nearly two and half hours in Madurai. The power cut happened after rains accompanied by thunderstorms lashed the temple town yesterday night. Mallika (55), a resident of Melur, Madurai, Palaniyammal (60), a native of Ottanchatiram, Dindigul, and Raveendran (52) from Srivilliputtur, Virudhunagar are the patients who died after the ventilator failure, sources said. It was a 15 bedded emergency ward for accidental care of the Madurai Government Hospital near Anna bus stand in Madurai. When the thunderstorm happened, the power cut made the ventilators stop working, Murugesan, a relative of Mallika said. After hearing of the incident, nearly 100 relatives of the deceased started a protest in front of the hospital. Madurai General Hospital Dean Vanitha Mani, Madurai city Assistant Police Commissioner Sasi Mohan, Medical Superintendent Raja, Resident Medical Officer Sri Latha are conducting negotiations with the relatives of the deceased to diffuse the situation. Though the relatives of the victims are alleging ventilator failure as the reason for the deaths, Dean Vanitha Mani refuted the charge saying it was natural death due to the patients poor physical health. While it is true there was a power cut late in the evening, we had restored power immediately with the help of power back up. The deceased patients have not died due to ventilator failure. They were critical when their relatives brought them here from other private hospitals, she said. Earlier, at least 14 patients on ventilator support had died in a private hospital at Chennai due to a similar ventilator failure following power outages during the Chennai floods of 2015. With just two weeks left for the declaration of assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh, the states health minister Kidari Sravan Kumar faces the prospect of being dropped from the cabinet for failing to become a lawmaker within the mandatory six-month period from the day of induction into the cabinet. Sravan Kumar was inducted into the state cabinet along with minister for minorities welfare N M D Farooq by chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu on November 11. While Farooq was already a member of the legislative council (MLC), Sravan Kumar could not become either an MLC or an MLA because of the announcement of election schedule in March. His six-month period to qualify for either the legislative assembly or legislative council will come to an end on May 10. According to an official familiar with the development, Governor E S L Narasimhan on Tuesday evening sent a communication to the General Administration Department of the Andhra Pradesh government that Sravan Kumar would cease to continue as a minister with effect from May 11, as he could not become a member of either legislative assembly or legislative council. The Governor mentioned that as per the Article 164 (4) of the Constitution of India, a minister who, for any period of six consecutive months, is not a member of the legislature of the state shall, at the expiration of the period, cease to be a minister. Sravan Kumar told reporters that he would discuss the issue with chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and take a decision (on quitting the cabinet) as per the latters directions. The 29-year old engineering graduate from IIT (BHU), Varanasi, is the youngest minister in the Naidu cabinet. He was brought into politics by Naidu, after the killing of his father Kidari Sarveshwar Rao, an MLA from Araku in Visakhapatnam, by Maoists at Livitiputtu tribal area on September 23. After Sarveshwar Raos death, the Election Commission did not notify the bye-elections to Araku seat since the assembly elections were only a few months away. In the April 11 elections to the state assembly, the TDP fielded him from Araku. But even before his fate at the elections is decided, he is on the verge of giving up his cabinet post. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Keralas biggest cultural festival Thrissur Pooram, an ensemble of traditional percussion musical instruments, caparisoned elephants, decorative umbrellas and pyrotechnics, has hit a road block over the ban of one-eyed celebrity elephant named Thechikottukavu Ramachandran. The 54-year-old tusker which has enough fan clubs and die-hard admirers in the state, was taken out of temple duty after it ran amok in February and killed two persons. Thrissur district collector T V Anupama, who is known for her no-nonsense approach, has said a big no to the VIP jumbo, intensifying the standoff between elephant lovers and the government. Elephant owners have threatened not to parade their jumbos at the Pooram. In the week-long Pooram festival May 13 and 14 are most auspicious. The tallest domesticated jumbo in the state at 10.5 ft, Ramachandran plays a key role in Pooram festivities every year. But his ban has angered his fans. The collectors Facebook page is flooded and fans started a campaign called Save Ramachandran and Sangh Parivar outfits have pledged their support to them. Pooram is incomplete without the presence of elegant Thechikottukavu Ramachandran, said P N Nair, one of the fans of the jumbo saying it was highly improper for authorities to put him in the most dangerous category of animals. Caparisoned elephants at Keralas biggest cultural festival Thrissur Pooram. (HT PHOTO) But Keralas forest minister K Raju justified the ban. After the mishap in February the chief wildlife warden has banned its parading in public places and festivals. We cant take any risk, Raju said. He said elephant owners were playing politics and the government will not bow to their threat. The minister had held talks with the elephant owners on Tuesday to break the deadlock but nothing came off it. We are willing to co-operate but the forest minister has made a controversial statement saying owners were torturing jumbos for money. It is an insensitive comment and we have decided not to dispatch our jumbos to any festival, said Kerala Elephant Owners Federation secretary K Sasikumar adding the minister was responsible for the standoff. In Kerala caparisoned elephants are often considered a status symbol for the rich. In February Ramachandran was taken to a house-warming function in temple town Guruvayoor when it ran amok after crackers were burst near it. The elephant trampled two persons to death and injured seven others, forcing authorities to ban it. This is not the first such incident. Over the years, the elephant has killed 11 people and gored two other jumbos The Kerala High Court had also banned Ramachandran twice for duration of six months. Elephant experts and veterinary surgeons have also warned against its public display because it is partially blind after it lost vision in one of the eyes during a mishap. But elephant enthusiasts and his fans are unmoved saying its ban was inappropriate. The state has 510 captive elephants and 400 are paraded in temple festivals and other functions. Guruvayoor temple has got single largest collection of domesticated jumbos in the country, 58. Thechikottukavu Ramachandran is owned by a temple trust in Peramangalam in Thrissur. It was brought from Bihar in the early 1970s. It is a recipient of many awards including Gajarajan and Eka Chtrapathi. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Supreme Court on Wednesday reiterated that the Assam government had time only till July 31 to publish the National Register of Citizens (NRC). During the course of the hearing today, the Supreme Court said that the state coordinator can continue with his work on the NRC. The court also gave the state coordinator the liberty to mention the matter before Registrar (Judicial) during summer vacation in case urgent hearing is required. During the minute-long hearing, the NRC coordinator told the court that most of those who had objected against the non-inclusion of their names in the first draft arent appearing to contest. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi asked the coordinator to be brave and keep the law in mind while reiterating that the final NRC must come by July 31. Both the Assam government and the Centre have been at the receiving end of the Supreme Courts ire over delays in publishing of the NRC as well as identification and deportation of foreigners from the state. The draft National Register of Citizens for Assam was published on July 30, 2018 in which the names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Photo: CTV News A pastor from a Metro Vancouver church has been identified as the victim who was killed in a fiery crash near the Peace Arch border crossing last Thursday. Tom Cheung, the lead pastor at Pacific Grace MB Church, came to Canada 20 years ago and leaves behind a wife and three children. A GoFundMe page has been started to help provide for the family and describes Cheung as a "loving husband of Athens, a caring devoted father of Solomon, Benjamin and Elisha; and a generous Pastor with lots of love and patience to many..." A release from the church indicates, "Tom was a kind, compassionate and humble individual who loved people and (was) always willing to help others," it said. "This tragedy brutally took away Tom from the family he dearly loved." Cheung was killed when a Porsche Cayenne SUV struck the Toyota Sienna minivan he was driving, from behind at the busy border crossing. Cheung died at the scene and witnesses report the Porsche was travelling at a high rate of speed when the collision happened, sending the minivan flying 200 feet before it came to rest. CTV News reports that Surrey RCMP is investigating the crash, but they have not yet indicated why the Porsche was driving at such a high rate of speed. -with files from CTV News The Congress in Telangana on Wednesday strongly objected to the sudden announcement of schedule for holding by-elections to three vacant Legislative Council seats under local bodies quota, at a time when the local body elections are still going on. All India Congress Committee official spokesman Dasoju Sravan met the full bench of Election Commission of India headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora at Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi and submitted a memorandum raising objections over the conduct of elections for the three MLC seats. The EC issued a notification late at night on May 6 for holding by-elections to three MLC seats under local bodies quota on May 31. The seats have fallen vacant in December last due to resignation of three sitting MLCs Patnam Narender Reddy under Ranga Reddy district local bodies constituency, Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy under Nalgonda local bodies constituency and Konda Muralidhar Rao under Warangal local bodies constituency. Sravan said the EC could have conducted the elections to these three vacant seats in March this year along with the MLC elections held for two teachers and one graduate constituency. However, for unknown reasons, the election was dragged till now and all of a sudden, the schedule was announced on the midnight of Monday, he said. He pointed out that within hours of the EC issuing the notification, the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi quickly declared its candidates as if it was aware of the schedule well in advance. The Congress leader said the voters for MLC elections under local bodies quota were zilla parishad and mandal (block) parishad territorial constituency members. Ironically, the elections to the ZPTCs and MPTCs are being held in three phases, which will be completed on May 14 and results will be declared on May 27. How can he EC conduct polls on May 31 without having the list of voters? he asked. He said the contestants for the MLC seats wouldnt even get the required number of proposers at the time of nominations. This was a serious flaw committed by Telangana Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) in conducting a free and fair election, he said. CEO Rajat Kumar clarified that the old voters list of ZPTCs and MPTCs would be used to conduct the MLC elections and so, it wont be a problem. But the Congress ridiculed this argument and described it as a mockery of democracy. By May 27, new ZPTC and MPTC members would get elected. How can the EC conduct the polls with old voters list on May 31? Sravan asked. When contacted, TRS MLC and spokesman Palla Rajeshwar Reddy said though new ZPTC and MPTC members would get elected on May 27, the tenure of the old members would continue till June. Only after the new mandal parishad and zilla parishads are constituted, the old members cease to function, he argued. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Thousands of people in Puri, where Cyclone Fani made landfall on May 3 and Bhubaneswar remained without power on Wednesday even as the Odisha government gave the assurance that electricity supply in the capital would be normalised by May 12. Sanjay Singh, secretary of information and public relations department, said by Wednesday evening the power connections of 7,700 of the 3 lakh consumers in Bhubaneswar had been restored. But Puri, ground zero of Cyclone Fani, would get power only after a month, he added. Since the electricity infrastructure in Puri has been massively damaged, it will take a long time for restoration. But we are trying to restore power on Grand Road in front of Jagannath Temple by May 12 in view of the preparations for rath yatra, Singh said. Cyclone Fani damaged five towers of 400 KV capacity, 27 towers of 220 KV capacity, 21 towers of 130 KV capacity, four grids of 220 KV capacity and four grids of 132 KV capacity. Similarly, 5,030 km of 33 KV lines, 38,613 km of 11 KV lines, 11,077 distribution transformers and 79,485 km of LT lines have been damaged. State power secretary Hemant Sharma said around 500 gangs, having 10 persons in each gang, were working to restore power. An officer is also deputed with every gang. These gangs have been mobilized from various states. Some gangs have been outsourced from Andhra Pradesh, some from West Bengal and more are on their way to Odisha. We are trying to dispatch teams of ITI and Polytechnic students to each house from tomorrow so that they can sort out problems there. These students are undergoing training in tasks done by electricians and plumbers. They will be deployed in Bhubaneswar as well as Puri, said Sharma. People in villages, however, continued to grow impatient despite the governments assurances. Some took to repairing electricity lines by themselves. In Kantabada village near Bhubaneswar, more than 100 youths erected poles and rigged up lines that had sagged as their pleas to power officials did not yield any result. The pole bearing 11 KV power line to our village had got bent and the lines were sagging. For the last five days, none of the people in our village and adjoining five other villages were able to sleep due to lack of power. Our lives have become hell, said Dilip Martha, president of the Netaji Youth Club of Kantabada village. We got a man from Central Electricity Supply Utility to help us repair the lines. All the youths in our village chipped in with whatever contribution they could make. Tomorrow we will go to the local junior engineer office to request him to restore power supply, said Martha. In neighbouring Chandaka village near Bhubaneswar, where a 400 KV structure lay twisted and mangled by Cyclone Fani, officials of Powergrid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) tried hard to erect a 61-metre-tall Emergency Restoration System (ERS) tower to put up a quick transmission line. The PGCIL structure fell on high-tension power lines near it, snapping power supply to Bhubaneswar. The ERS tower can be put up in a couple of days. Had we built a new tower, it would have taken at least three weeks. We plan to make it ready by Thursday evening, said a senior official of PGCIL, requesting anonymity. Around him, labourers with expertise in electrical repairs kept working on the tower wearing safety boots and gloves. We started work early in the morning and had a break of just half an hour for lunch before we resumed work, said a labourer from Bengal. On the marshy lands next to the Asian College of Business Management in Bhola village, Sadikul Haq, an electrical contractor who specializes in repair of high tension lines, advised his labourers how to quickly finish repairing a 220 KV tower. I normally fast during Ramzan, but this time I have not been able to observe it as there is too much work to do. Yesterday, my workers finished repairing another 220 KV tower. I have been given impossible deadlines. There is no time even to sleep, said Haq. The work of electrical labourers and officials drew praise from chief minister Naveen Patnaik who tweeted video clips of power restoration work. As work on restoration of power supply continued, the demand for diesel Gensets, kerosene lanterns and candles spiked in Puri and Bhubaneswar. Bhubaneswar-based diesel Genset dealer Badri Narayan Samantaray said he had sold more Gensets in the last 4 days than he does in a month. I am unable to meet the demand. People are just buying without even haggling for discount, he said. In Puri town, candles are being sold at 50-60 a piece due to high demand and shortage of stock. I have asked my cousin in Bhubaneswar to come with 3-4 packets of candles, said Mantu Kolladu, a fisherman from Betanolia Sahi on Puri sea beach. The price of kerosene lanterns too has doubled. Like power, people continued to do without telecom connectivity even as the government claimed it had asked private telecom operators to improve services. In Puri, Bharti Airtel on Wednesday installed its first Cell-on-Wheel mobile tower on Puri Grand Road. The company has positioned 13 such towers in the Puri-Bhubaneswar belt to re-establish connectivity and improve network coverage. Cell-on-Wheel is a portable mobile cellular site that provides temporary network and wireless coverage to locations where cellular coverage is minimal or compromised. Mobile service operator Jio will also be sending Cell-on-Wheel towers, said officials. But people in Bhubaneswar continued to complain about the poor connectivity offered by mobile companies. For the last 3-4 days, hundreds of youths have been milling on flyovers in an attempt to get signal. I had to check the results of my entrance exam to the National Defence Academy. So I came to Bomikhal flyover. But I have not been able to check so far, said Biplab Sahu, a youth. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission issued a notice to the Odisha government after reports that relief material did not reach people in parts of Puri and Khurdha districts and sought immediate steps to address the issue, PTI reported. The Odisha government Tuesday sought the Centres help in restoration of power and telecom services in Puri and Khurda districts, worst hit by cyclone Fani, due to shortage of skilled manpower, an official said. The state has to install as many as 1.56 lakh electric poles. According to an official, the toll in the cyclone, which hit the state Friday, rose to 37 on Tuesday with two more death reported in Cuttack district as the struggle to restore power, drinking water and telecom infrastructure continued. While 21 people had perished in Puri district, Cuttack reported five deaths followed by four cases each from Jajpur and Mayurbhanj districts. Kendrapara district reported three deaths, Special relief commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said. We have sought the Centres help in providing skilled manpower to assist Odisha in restoration of electricity supply in the worst cyclone-hit districts of Puri and Khurda, Chief Secretary A P Padhi told reporters after meeting with Union Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha via video conference. He said though the state government has been able to restore water supply in Puri and Bhubaneswar by using diesel generators, it has been an uphill task to provide electricity to people in view of massive destruction of power infrastructure. Padhi said Odisha has requested the Centre to send 5,000 skilled manpower from neighbouring West Bengal, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. These people will be deployed in erecting electric poles and draw wire on them which would facilitate the state to restore power supply in a time-bound manner, he said. However, the Odisha chief secretary did not give any timeline for restoration of electricity service. I am not certain when exactly all areas will be provided electricity supply. We have already started the process of providing power to the consumers in a phased manner. In view of the massive destruction, one cannot give a timeline, Padhi said. During a review meeting, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik admitted that telecommunication network has completely collapsed in Puri and said the state has urged the Centre to make Mobile Tower on Wheels available in the district to facilitate relief and restoration works. He said lack of telecommunication has adversely affected relief and restoration works. Relief distribution work was launched in Bhubaneswar Tuesday and the same will start in parts of Khurda district from Wednesday, Patnaik said. In absence of drinking water and electricity during the mid-May summer, life in the coastal districts remained derailed even four days after the calamity. The miseries of the people were compounded with high levels of humidity which soared above 90 per cent in coastal districts. Everything is dependent on power supply. If there is no electricity, the filling stations cannot operate even though they have enough stock of petrol and diesel, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said. With acute shortage of drinking water, lack of power supply and ATMs becoming defunct, many people, mostly students and elderly persons, have started leaving the state capital for their native places. There is rush at the bus stand as people move to their villages, Odisha Private Bus Owners Association secretary Tusharkant Acharya said. He said though 400 buses are now plying in the state, more are required to meet the passenger demands after the cyclone. Bus service has started in 80 per cent of routes as the national highways and state highways have been cleared of blockades. Though train service from Bhubaneswar resumed on Sunday, East Coast Railways Tuesday announced cancellation of seven trains including Haridwar-Puri Kalinga Express, Chennai-Santragachi Suvidha Express, Neelachal Express, Puri-Shalimar Express. Meanwhile, the Centre Tuesday extended the last date of registration for students of Odisha to enroll in the JEE (advanced) exam. The eligible students were to resister their names online between May 3 and 9. I am happy to announce that students from Odisha appearing JEE (Advance) 2019 will get an extension of 5 days till May 14 for their registration. A decision to this effect was taken following the request of Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik, Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar tweeted. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu extended a helping hand to cyclone-ravaged Odisha and tweeted, A team of 2055 workers, shift operators and staff from energy department will be deputed for rectification work so that service can be restored at a faster pace. He also announced an assistance of Rs 15 crore for the cyclone victims of Odisha. Former prime minister HD Devegowda and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy spoke to Patnaik on Tuesday and expressed their solidarity with the people of Odisha. Financial assistance poured in from many quarters with industrialist Gautam Adani contributing Rs 25 crore and ICICI Bank Rs 10 crore to the Chief Ministers Relief Fund. Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys (IMFA) also contributed Rs 75 lakh for the cyclone victims. PTI AAM SKN RG NSD NSD Delhi University teachers are divided over the issue of Prime Minister Narendra Modis remark about former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. While a group of 207 teachers issued a public statement condemning Modis remark about Gandhi during a political rally, another group of 121 supported the Prime Minister. Modi, in a rally on Saturday, had targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale issue and called Rajiv Gandhi corrupt. In their statement issued on Monday night, the 207 teachers termed the remark derogatory and untrue. The members said, Narendra Modi has lowered the dignity of the office of the Prime Minister by making derogatory and untrue remarks about late Rajiv ji, who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. In the statement, tweeted by Congress overseas affair in-charge Sam Pitroda on Tuesday morning, the teachers made references to the 1999 Kargil war and the telecom revolution in India. When India beat back the invaders from Kargil, our soldiers shouted slogans praising Rajiv Gandhi for the Bofors gun, even though Rajiv ji had been martyred a decade ago, it read. But on Tuesday, a group of 121 teachers issued a statement supporting the PMs remark. We fully support PM Modi for bringing into public attention the regime of corruption in big defence deals started during Rajiv Gandhis tenure. Bofors deal became a symbol of official corruption; it initiated a trend which had consistently been followed by the Congress-led governments. Criticising the other group of teachers for issuing a statement against the Prime Ministers remark, the teachers said, The statement was issued by some DU teachers who do not want anyone to point fingers at Rajiv Gandhi whereas they refer to the incumbent PM in the foulest language on a daily basis. Rajesh Jha, a teacher at Rajdhani College, was among the 207 teachers who are against the Prime Ministers remark. The teachers have issued the statement because the PM has said something that was factually incorrect, he said. Among the 121 teachers to support Modi is VS Negi, a teacher at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College. The fact that Rajiv Gandhi was awarded a Bharat Ratna cannot prevent future analysts from critiquing his contribution to organised corruption in the county, he said. In a fresh revelation, an Italian journalist has claimed that 130-170 Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists may have been killed in the February 26 Indian Air Force airstrike at Balakot in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The Indian Air Force had carried out an airstrike in the dead of the night 13 days after the deadly suicide bombing at Pulwama on February 14 in which 40 CRPF jawans had been killed. In a new report on the website stringerasia.it, Italian journalist Francesca Marino, claims that among the 130-170 JeM terrorists killed in the strike included ...11 trainers, ranging from bomb makers to those imparting weapons training. Two of these trainers were from Afghanistan. She also claims that as many as 45 of the terrorists are undergoing treatment near the camps location and that 20 others may have died while undergoing treatment. WATCH: Explained: UN lists JeMs Masood Azhar as global terrorist In her report she says that around 6 am, two and a half hours after the 330 am IAF airstrike, an army unit from their camp in Shinkiari arrived at the camp. Immediately after the Army unit arrival, the injured were taken to a Harkat-ul-Mujahideen camp, located in Shinkiari and treated by Pakistan Army doctors. Local sources say around 45 persons are still undergoing treatment in this camp, while around 20 have died during treatment due to serious injuries. Those who have recovered are still in custody of the Army and have not been discharged, she writes. In her report, titled, Balakot: more details revealed, she also suggests that in order to prevent news of the fatalities from leaking through statements of family members of the killed cadres, a JeM group visited the families of those killed and handed over cash compensation to them. In her report, Marino quotes sources as saying that a freshly painted signboard at the foothill from where one starts the trek to the JeM camp indicates the presence of the Taleem-ul-Quran on the hilltop. Unlike the earlier board, all links to JeM leader and now internationally proscribed terrorist Masood Azhar has been removed, she claims, further saying that the camp area is still under the Armys control and that access to the dust track leading to the camp is still restricted, even to the local police. Apart from a few children and 3-4 teachers, the camp has been cleared of any traces of it earlier being a JeM camp. She also indicates that the JeM leadership has assured its cadres that the group will take its revenge when the time is ripe. India and the US wont immediately escalate vexed trade-related issues and are expected to hold their position on all important matters till a new government is formed in New Delhi by the month-end, officials with knowledge of the matter said on Tuesday. US commerce secretary Wilbur Ross too hinted the two sides will maintain their positions in his speech at the Trade Winds business forum, while raising the issue of trade imbalance with India. We applaud Indias commitment to addressing some of these barriers once the government is reformed, probably starting in the month of June, he said. Election-bound India is expected to form a new government before the tenure of the current Lok Sabha ends on June 3. Indias main concerns include the US decision to enforce sanctions on oil imports from Iran, one of the countrys main energy suppliers, and the withdrawal of benefits under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme. Washington is concerned by the trade imbalance because of tariff and non-tariff barriers, and regulations that US officials say put foreign companies at a disadvantage. According to the officials cited above, India has explained to the US that strategic matters, including trade-related issues, can be effectively dealt with after the new government is formed. They added the US has hinted it might make a final decision on withdrawing incentives under GSP after the new government is formed. The two sides are also locked in disputes over Indian price caps on imported US medical devices, and e-commerce rules barring companies from selling products through firms in which they have an equity interest. Ross contended Indias push to get foreign firms to store more of their user data locally is a hindrance to trade, and said Indias treatment of Walmart after its acquisition of Flipkart was an important issue. So the American companies are showing very good will and a very cooperative attitude towards Make in India and the other programmes, Ross told CNBC-TV18. But theres a limit to how far the discriminatory behaviour can go. Commerce minister Suresh Prabhu said he had an excellent meeting with Ross on Monday, during which they discussed how to take this relationship to the next level. Prabhu expanded US President Donald Trumps slogan Make America great again to Lets make America great again by making India-US relationship far better again. Ross rephrased it to MAGAWIC, or Make America great again with Indian cooperation. Ross told the business forum US technologies and expertise can play a key role in developing Indias economy but faced significant market access barriers. Noting that India is the third largest economy and would become the largest consumer market by 2030, he added: Yet today, India is only the US 13th largest export market due to overly restrictive market access barriers. On the other hand, the US is Indias largest export market, accounting for about 20% of the total. Thats a real imbalance, and its an imbalance we must drive to counter, he said. He contended Indias average applied tariff rate of 13.8% is the highest of any major world economy and its bound tariff rates, or the highest rate that can be charged, on agricultural products ranged from 113.5% to 300%. Ross referred to Trumps vision of a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific and said India is key to the US administrations approach to the region. The ex-wife of an Indian-origin neurologist in Singapore has been granted Singapore dollars 25 million in assets, child support and spousal support by a British Columbia court, in one of the biggest divorce payouts abroad. Gobinathan Devathasan, 69, whose behaviour was described as reprehensible during the litigation, was ordered on April 29 to pay his ex-wife Christie Devathasan Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in spousal support, with another Canadian dollars 612,084 for child support. During the course of the litigation, Devathasan had handled funds in his Singapore bank account despite an asset freezing order, failed to disclose properties, deliberately embarrassed his daughter and suggested that a judge had spread her legs wide to the claimants counsel, the court was told. The doctor ran a private clinic at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and had married Devathasan in 1997. She filed for divorce in 2016, Channel News Asia reported. The couple was described in the court judgment as being uncommonly wealthy, and had owned expensive cars, jewellery, artwork and homes, with investment properties in Canada, the US, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. Devathasan divorced her first husband in 1996, while Devathasan divorced his first wife, with whom he had two children with, in 1997. Shortly after, the couple got married in Singapore in August 1997. The couples relationship deteriorated in 2015 and early 2016, according to the court papers. Devathasan commenced divorce proceedings in July 2016. Devathasan obtained an asset freezing order and a protection order, and these orders were served to Devathasan in August 2016. The doctor claimed that they were not binding as he was in Singapore and took steps to deal with his assets. Devathasans past conduct was also taken into account in deciding ongoing and future child support. He has to pay Canadian dollars 33,084 for past child support and a lump sum of Canadian dollars 579,000 for child support for the period through to June 2022. For a long time he was utterly unwilling to acknowledge or fulfil his parental and spousal responsibilities or acknowledge this courts role in adjudicating those responsibilities, Justice Gomery said in his judgment. In an affidavit sworn on May 22, 2017, he stated: I will not pay a dollar for alimony now or till death or whatever any one decrees, no matter what. The judge ordered Devathasan to pay ex-wife Devathasan Canadian dollars 2,351,000 in connection with the allocation of family property and debt. He will also have to pay a total of Canadian dollars 612,084 in child support, and Canadian dollars 5,498,344 in total for spousal support. The Canadian dollars 16.4 million in assets granted to Devathasan include a house in West Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 6.2 million, an apartment in Vancouver worth Canadian dollars 2.35 million and an apartment in Florida worth Canadian dollars 2.48 million. The doctor was granted Canadian dollars 21.4 million after the proceedings. The judge described Devathasan as a hardworking man all his life, adding that the doctor worked Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings throughout his career in private practices. He has loyal patients, the judge was quoted as saying in the report. The Indian Railways has made Rail Neer sale mandatory at 74 more stations as part of its efforts to augment the business of its bottled water brand, two officials familiar with the matter said. There are around 3,000 stations, where sale of Rail Neer is mandatory currently. This comes with the opening of four new water bottling plants in Hapur (Uttar Pradesh), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) and Ahmedabad (Gujarat), which would help the railways meet 50% of the total demand for water on trains. The railways produced six lakh litre Rail Neer until 2018-19 even as the daily water requirement was 16 lakh litre, according to a railway official. The total production will reach eight lakh litre daily with the opening of the four new plants. One of the officials cited above said Rail Neer was earlier able to meet the requirement for 37% of the total water demand. at locations where we are not able to provide Rail Neer, we have tied up with other vendors. By next year, we hope to meet 75% of the demand as tenders for other plants are out and our aim is to meet 100% of the demand, said the official. India has one of the biggest railway networks, which transports an estimated 23 million people daily. In 2016-17, the railways earned ~172 crore through Rail Neer sales. The target for 2017-18 was ~190 crore and it managed to achieve the target. The second official said the railway will provide land either on its own or through a memorandum of understanding with state governments for a further increase in Rail Neer production. He added the packaged water has a high potential for more revenue generation. We were losing revenues as we were not able to meet even half of the [water] demand. But once the remaining plants are commissioned, the [production] capacity and the revenues will increase. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation produces Rail Neer at seven plants, two of which have been established under the public-private partnership model. The number of water plants will be doubled to 16 lakh litre by the year-end, according to the railway. It is mandatory to sell only Rail Neer at Mathura, Gwalior, Bhopal, Kathgodam, Godhra, Amravati and Rajkot stations as the plants which are opened are close to these locations. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In a freak accident, an Indian aviation technician with Kuwait Airways was killed while towing an aircraft at the companys base airport, according to a media report on Tuesday. The technical staff member, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, was towing the Boeing 777 aircraft when the tow bar broke, killing him on the spot on Monday. The technical staff member was killed during a towing accident at the companys base airport on May 6, the Khaleej Times reported, quoting airlines tweet. The report, however, did not identify the deceased technician. No crew members or passengers were on board the aircraft when the incident happened, it said. Necessary investigations are being carried out on the incident by the concerned authorities to determine the cause of death. Kuwait Airways has expressed their regret at the tragic incident, the report said. Towing involves moving of large aircraft from the runway to the terminal or hangar. The victim is survived by his wife and daughter. According to media reports, his body was moved to the mortuary following inquest and will be flown to Kerala. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Recounting the achievements of the BJP government at the Centre in the last five years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched another attack on the Congress, its senior leaders and its policies. Referring to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in the national capital, parts of Haryana and Punjab, the prime minister said that the process of punishing the guilty Congress leaders at the behest of whom 3,000 Sikhs had been brutally murdered and several others displaced, had already been initiated by the BJP government. Prime Minister Modi said the Congress had made a leader accused in the 1984 riots the chief minister of a state after winning the assembly elections last year instead of ensuring that he was punished. The prime ministers swipe was aimed at Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath, who the BJP alleges, had a role to play in the riots. Kamal Nath has rejected the charge on multiple occasions. Ten Lok Sabha seats of Haryana will go to polls on May 12 as part of the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi was speaking at an election rally in Fatehabad under the Sirsa Lok Sabha seat, where the party has nominated Sunita Duggal as its candidate. The Congress and its mahamilawati allies have already given up the battle in anticipation of the election results on May 23. In Delhi, their intentions of forming a khichri-waali sarkar will not see the light of day. The BJP government is working round-the-clock to make India a superpower in the near future, the prime minister assured the crowd. Once again making a veiled reference to the recent surgical strikes carried out by the Indian armed forces in Balakot in Pakistan, PM Modi questioned, Can any country become a strong global power without strengthening its defence infrastructure first? The international community will never give serious attention to a country which cannot defend its own people. The Congress and its allies despite being in power for a very long time could never defend the country and were soft on terror, the prime minister alleged. Have they ever spoken about the defence of the nation in any of their election rallies? They have not. Their past is such that they are not even bothered about the defence sector, he said. Asking the people of Haryana to bring the BJP back to power with a strong mandate, PM Modi said that it was because a strong government had been voted to power in 2014, that the country was safe and secure and terrorism had been effectively dealt with. Photo: Contributed Richard Cannings, Member of Parliament for the South Okanagan, presented two petitions in the House of Commons Tuesday, both pertaining to the importance of pension plans. He said the petitions protest changes to current pension plans laid out in the proposed Bill C-27. "The petitioners point out that before the 2015 federal election, Canadians were clearly promised in writing that defined benefit pension plans, which have already been paid for by employees and pensioners, should not be retroactively changed into target benefit plans," Cannings said adding he believes the changes proposed through the bill would "(jeopardize) the retirement income security of Canadians who have negotiated defined benefit plans as a form of deferred wages." The petitions ask the federal government to withdraw Bill C-27, which is an act amending the Pension Benefits Standards Act. Cannings' two petitions were joined by many others from constituencies around the country. Gerald Jennings, a representative from the National Association of Retirees, also stood and addressed parliament, sharing his views on the bill. "Bill C-27 will enable defined benefit pension plans to be replaced by targeted benefit plans. Defined benefit pension plans invest in Canadian equities, real estate and infrastructure such as railways, bridges, airports, utilities and pipelines. Pension funds are uniquely poised to invest in Canada and Canada's Infrastructure Bank," he said. An Islamic State suspect with alleged links to Riyas Aboobacker alias Abu Dujana a member of IS Kasargod module in Kerala who was arrested last week was deported from Doha on Tuesday evening, an Intelligence Bureau official familiar with the development said. The National Investigation Agency took the custody of the man, identified as Faisal, as soon as he was brought to Delhi. The official said, Faisal, also a native of Kerala, had been in regular touch with Aboobacker, who was arrested last week. The latter was allegedly planning suicide attacks in Kerala after being inspired by the mastermind of Sri Lanka bombings, Maulvi Zahran Bin Hashim, leader of National Towheed Jamaat (NTJ). A second IB officer said Aboobacker had convinced three-four persons from Kerala and Tamil Nadu to follow Zahran Hashims radical speeches and Faisal could be one of them. Faisal could also be in touch with Abdul Rashid Abdulla, the leader of Keralas Kasargod ISIS module, in which 22 persons including women and children had travelled to Afghanistans Nangarhar province to fight for the ISIS, said the officer. He added that Faisals name cropped up during the interrogation of Aboobacker, who is still in NIA custody, following which Faisal has been deported to Delhi from Doha with governments diplomatic efforts. Agencies suspect that IS members, including Aboobacker, Faisal, Abdulla (in Afghanistan) and others were planning something big in India as well. As first reported by HT, the members of Coimbatore module and Kasargod module of IS in Tamil Nadu and Kerala respectively, were either in touch with Sri Lanka attacks mastermind or followed his speeches. Zahran Hashim and another Sri Lanka bomber, Mohammad Azaan, had travelled to India in 2017 and 2018 to discuss the plans of Islamic State. Since April 21 Sri Lanka attacks, which claimed the lives of over 250 people, there has been a major crackdown on suspects in both the southern states. According to the NIA, Aboobacker has disclosed that he wanted to carry out suicide attacks in Kerala. Aboobacker will be confronted with Faisal, said the second IB officer. The NIA has claimed Aboobacker followed speeches/videos of Zahran Hashim for more than a year and had also followed the speeches of Zakir Naik. Riyas revealed that he was also having online chat with Abdul Khayoom alias Abu Khalid (suspect in the Valapattanam ISIS case) who was believed to be in Syria, the NIA stated in a statement last week. The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday ordered an investigation into all political killings in the state since 2018. Additional director general of police Muneer Ahmad Khan will conduct the probe, an official statement said. He has been asked to submit a report within 15 days. The probe was ordered days after militants shot dead Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s state vice president, Ghulam Mohammad Mir, 55, in South Kashmirs Anantnag district on Saturday. BJP workers and leaders held a protest rally in Srinagar on Tuesday and blamed the police for withdrawing Mirs security. BJPs state general secretary, Ashok Kaul, surrendered his security in protest. The probe was ordered after governor Satya Pal Malik reviewed the security situation at a meeting in Srinagar. The governor stressed the need for ensuring the safety of protected persons and advised security agencies to give due consideration to the genuine apprehensions of political activists working at the grassroots level, the statement said. The statement added the governor has asked leaders of political parties to raise their security concerns with the police. due diligence of threat perception will be carried out by the Intelligence agencies before arriving at a decision on the provision of personal security to persons with a perceived threat. BJP state spokesman Altaf Thakur on Sunday said Mirs security was withdrawn despite threats from militants. He was under constant threat from militants, yet his security was taken back. The state government in February announced withdrawal or downgrading of security of 155 people, including 18 separatists. Former bureaucrat Shah Faesal and Peoples Democratic Party leader Waheed Parra were among those whose security was withdrawn. RSS leader Chanderkant Sharma was killed along with his personal security officer in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district last month. Ahead of the last two phases of the Lok Sabha elections, the Congress is trying hard to shift the narrative from nationalism back to the performance of Narendra Modi and his government in implementing centrally sponsored welfare schemes in the last five years. The Congress and its 47-yearold chief, Rahul Gandhi, have so far kept up the attack on Modi and the BJP primarily through the Rafale fighter jet deal, alleged bank scams, agrarian distress and unemployment. Gandhi and his colleagues have also been talking about how the Congress will launch a final assault on poverty with its game-changer Nyay (Nyuntam Aay Yojana or guaranteed minimum income scheme) if it comes to power. The Congress has now started highlighting the alleged failures of the Modi government in implementing flagship programmes. Addressing a news conference on Monday, Congress leader and Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu spoke in detail about Namami Gange, Digital India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Skill India, Amrut (sewage treatment and water supply) scheme, Mudra Yojana, Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana, Beti Padhao-Beti Bachao, Nirbhaya fund, Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and rising fuel prices. I am keeping the truth of flagship programs in front of you. The Prime Minister will sink in his own wave of lies. It is a guarantee, he told reporters. All the work remains incomplete but the lies are complete. Their promises are like a bamboo very long but hollow from inside. Sidhu termed the Fasal Bima Yojana a bigger scam than Rafale, and listed the achievements of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government to draw a comparison with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance rule. This is part of the strategy that the Congress has formulated following the assessment that Modi is trying to divert the attention from real issues by launching personal attacks against the Congress leadership. Our communication strategy has the Congress president leading from the front. While Rahulji addressed open press briefings, engaged with the media, Modiji kept hiding behind smoke screens. Congress has been able to keep Modi in a constant bind. His diversionary and mega-event based tactics were exposed in Gujarat and every election thereafter, we kept our focus only on issues for which he and his government are directly responsible, Congress spokesperson Pranav Jha said. In the Lok Sabha polls, we are keeping track of the way he is trying to jump from one issue to another. One press conference after another, in every TV debate we stuck to the main issues of jobs, rural distress, GST and Rafale corruption, with Rahul Gandhi himself articulating them at all forums, he added. Jha, who is also an All India Congress Committee (AICC) secretary in charge of communication department, said the party has been focused, and in the remaining two phases also the alleged failures of the government in implementing its flagship schemes would be highlighted. Press conferences are organised keeping in mind the single point agenda, which is to fix the accountability of the PM and his government, and our spokespersons and panelists have acted as one team by speaking in one voice, he said. But political analysts termed the Congresss fresh bid too little, too late. They should have done it six months ago. It is too late in the day now. These are the schemes that touch hundreds and thousands of people. It is surprising that they did not talk about it earlier, said Delhi-based political analyst N Bhaskara Rao. Dismissing Congress claims, BJP spokesperson Gopal Agarwal sais, we have 219 schemes on the basis of which we will win the election. Take the PM Kisan yojna within 24 days of the launch, two installments were transferred through the direct benefit scheme to farmers. This happened because we have already opened bank accounts under the Jan Dhan Yojna, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Repolling in 168 polling stations out of total 1,679 in West Tripura constituency would be conducted on May 12, said the Election Commission of India . According to an ECI letter addressed to Tripuras chief electoral officer S Taranikanti, the polling in 168 polling stations were void and thats why, fresh polls in these polling stations would be held. West Tripura constituency went to the Lok Sabha polls on April 11. The opposition CPM and Congress alleged booth rigging reportedly by ruling BJP men and demanded fresh polls. The Tripura unit of CPM on Wednesday said they have moved the Supreme Court. The Congress, too, said it will move the apex court. Left Front convenor Bijan Dhar said CPMs Tripura West constituency candidate Shankar Prasad Datta filed the case against the Election Commission of Indias decision in the apex court. BJP chief spokesperson Ashok Sinha said, ...We obey this decision and will take part in the repoll. Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee will play a big role in the formation of the new government at the Centre, said Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday. Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief Naidu visited the former Maoist-dominated Lalgarh in West Bengal to attend a rally in support of Birbaha Soren (Tudu), TMC candidate from Jhargram constituency. Naidu also addressed another rally in Haldia, Tamluk constituency. The West Bengal chief minister is a Bengal tiger now, and after the elections, she will become the tiger of the nation. The BJP is going to be defeated miserably and Mamata Banerjee will play a big role in the formation of the new government by wining all the 42 seats in the state, said Naidu in Lalgarh. Once this place was controlled by Left-wing extremists. But now, it is totally controlled by the chief minister of Bengal. There is peace now and a lot of development work has been done. The people of the region are living in peace. It is a model to be followed, he added. On Thursday, Naidu and Banerjee are supposed to share the dias in Kharagpur, which comes under the Medinipur Lok Sabha constituency and goes to polls on May 12. TMC candidate and Rajya Sabha MP Manas Bhuniya will contest against Bharatiya Janata Party state president Dilip Ghosh here. Earlier in the day, Naidu had met Congress President Rahul Gandhi in and discussed plans to hold a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21, two days before the results of the ongoing seven-phased Lok Sabha elections are announced. The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday said it would lift restrictions on civilian traffic between Udhampur to Srinagar on National Highway (NH)-44 on Wednesdays from next week. The restriction on civilian movement between Srinagar and Udhampur on NH-44 will be lifted on Wednesdays with effect from May 13. The prohibition on civilian traffic in this stretch would now be only on Sunday, a government spokesman said in a statement. The government is alive to the needs of citizens and has once again reviewed the requirement of security forces. Following the completion of elections in Pulwama and Shopian districts and as the requirement of security forces is now reducing, the government has decided to further relax the restrictions, he said. The restriction on civilian movement between Srinagar and Baramulla on NH-44 was reduced only to Sunday after April 20 and completely lifted on May 1. The movement of civilian traffic on the highway from Baramulla to Udhampur was restricted for two days a week Wednesday and Sunday on April 7 to allow safe passage to the convoy of the security forces required for anti-militancy operations following the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 and conducting general elections peacefully. The decision had created furore in the Kashmir valley with many criticising the order as colonial. On February 14, a suicide bomber had rammed his car into a security convoy in Pulwama district on the highway killing 40 CRPF personnel and bringing India and Pakistan to the brink of war. The general elections across India, including Jammu and Kashmir, were announced in March. The Lok Sabha elections in the state concluded on May 6. The state is under presidents rule since December 20 and is being administered by governor Satya Pal Malik. Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indias Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian security forces along the Line of Control which resulted in the death of three civilians. The Foreign Office said: the Indian forces along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Working Boundary (WB) are continuously targeting civilian populated areas with heavy weapons. Director General (SA and SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Ahluwalia and condemned the unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) , the foreign office said. The foreign office said that on May 2 in Rakhchikri sector along the LoC, a 15-year-old boy was killed and his 9-year-old sister injured. On May 5 in Hotspring and Kotkotera sectors along the LoC, a woman and a 12-year-old boy were killed and a woman injured, it said. This unprecedented escalation in ceasefire violations by India is continuing since 2017 with 1970 ceasefire violations, it said. Chhabil Patel, Haribhai Patel, Vinod Patel and Bipin Patel, all in their forties and quite the quintessential Indian farmers, have become minor celebrities in Sabarkantha district of north Gujarat after US snack and beverage giant PepsiCo Inc said last week that it was dropping a lawsuit it brought against the four men for growing a variety of potato that goes into making its Lays chips. Confronting the meticulously drafted infringement lawsuit filed in April, the four potato growers stood no chance. PepsiCo accused them of stealing a variety of potato over which it claims to have exclusive rights, seeking damages of 1 crore from each. The case could have financially wrecked the farmers and possibly meant jail time. In a stunning reversal, PepsiCo said on Thursday, May 2, that it would drop the charges. We would have never been able to pay that sum. We would have had to commit suicide, said Bipin Patel. Hannah Lownbrough, the executive director of UK-based Sum Of Us, a group that describes itself as fighting for people over profits, said from London that PepsiCo suing the four Indian farmers was a bit of a nonsense. The action against the four Patels also set off international protests. I was told that pro-farmer groups in France have initiated a coordinated cyberaction to denounce PepsiCo, said Kapil Shah, the founder of Vadodara-based Jatan Trust, a farmers rights advocacy group defending the farmers. As civil society came forward to challenge PepsiCo, the company felt the issue could blow up into a major political controversy in the middle of Indias general elections, people with knowledge of the companys stance said on condition of anonymity. When the farmers were served the summonses, they didnt rush to a lawyer. Rather, they tipped off the local leaders of the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, the influential farm wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the ideological parent of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The general secretary of Gujarats BKS chapter, BK Patel, hails from the same district as the farmers. The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), another affiliate of the RSS, also jumped to the farmers defence. According to Ashwini Mahajan of the SJM, PepsiCos actions amounted to coercion of the farmers. Both BKS and SJM have been outspoken about restricting multinationals to protect Indian businesses and farmers. I was furious, says BK Patel. Patel got in touch with Kapil Shah, who is well known for his advocacy of farmers rights. In a coordinated move, Shah reached out to nearly 200 organisations countrywide. In a rare instance, both right-wing and left-leaning organisations, such as the Leftist All-India Kisan Sabha, joined hands. BKS approached Gujarat deputy chief minister, Nitin Patel, and formally asked the government to intervene on April 24, BK Patel said. In a jolt to PepsiCo, the deputy chief minister on April 28 told the BKS that the state government was considering pleading the Ahmedabad commercial court to make it a party in the case in favour of the farmers. A day after PepsiCo said it was withdrawing the cases, farm activists from both left and rightwing organisations assembled at Gujarats historic Gandhi Vidyapith. When something so drastic and unjustifiable like this happens, everybody likes to work for farmers. Not just for political reasons. Can a multinational be allowed to claim 1 crore from farmers in this country? Left, right, centreeverybody will fight it. The seed must be protected, said Shah. PepsiCo filed the lawsuits on April 5, alleging the farmers were growing the FC5 potato variety, which PepsiCo exclusively uses for Lays potato chips because it has the rights under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Right Act. PepsiCo secured a certificate of registration of FC5 in February 2016 from Indias plant varieties registry, it says. PepsiCo has said that according to section 28 of the Act, as the registered breeder of FC5, it had exclusive rights over the variety. Farm activists argue that the same Act, under section 39, allows farmers to save, use, sow resow, exchange, share or sell a protected variety like FC5 as long as it is not sold as a branded item. PepsiCo also says that the company and its predecessors have carried out extensive research, studies and trials towards developing FC5 and spent huge amounts of money towards the same. The court battle may not be over yet, although PepsiCo announced the withdrawal of the lawsuit in a statement. Shah said on Sunday that PepsiCos lawyer told him in writing that he had received no communication from the company with regard to withdrawal of the cases. Shah has called for more meetings that could see farm associations from the right, left and centre prepare their next round of a David-Goliath farm battle. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Keeping aside her identities of Congress president Rahul Gandhis sister, former prime minister Rajiv Gandhis daughter and the Congress general secretary, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Wednesday chose to hit the narrow lanes of Brahampuri as a Delhi girl, challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fight the last two phases of the parliamentary elections on the issues of demonetisation, goods and services tax, womens safety and youth unemployment. Modi ji came to Delhi only five years ago but I was born here. For 47 years, I have lived here and seen every nook and corner of this city. I can tell you what the people of Delhi want. You (Modi) wouldnt know, since you are cooped up in your Race Course Road bungalow, she said. PM Modi, at a rally on Sunday, had challenged the Congress to fight the final rounds of the Lok Sabha elections on Rajiv Gandhis image. His remark calling the former PM corrupt number one had given rise to a political slugfest. Standing atop a mini-bus Wednesday, Priyanka said, The BJP is like that student who doesnt do his homework and when the teacher asks, he says that (Jawaharlal) Nehru ji took my sheet and hid it and Indira (Gandhi) ji tore my homework and made paper boats of it. Priyanka led her first campaign in the national capital for former Delhi chief minister and Congress candidate from North East Delhi Sheila Dikshit. I am confident that voters living in all of these (along the route that Priyanka took) areas will make the Congress win with a huge margin, Dikshit said. Waving at the people who had turned up in huge numbers, despite the sweltering heat, to see her, Priyanka covered a distance of over 2.5km from Jag Pravesh Chandra Hospital to the Yamuna Vihar bus depot. People say she (Priyanka) is a spitting image of her grandmother, Indira ji. They are right. She looks so much like the Indira Gandhi I remember the hair, the cotton saree and the confidence, 78-year-old Mehrusina Begum, who had come for the roadshow with her 10-year-old grandson, said. As Priyanka entered the bylanes of the Muslim dominated colonies, voters pledged their support for the Congress throwing rose petals on the route to welcome her. Despite many in the crowd claiming that the voters in areas such as Shahdara, Seelampur, Brahampuri, and Yamuna Vihar have always pledged their allegiance to the Congress, some believed that the triangular fight with the AAP and the BJP is likely to split the anti-BJP votes. Along the route of the roadshow, posters of, Dear Sheila ji, you rejected the alliance (with the AAP), we reject you, could also be seen. We wanted that the BJP be defeated this time but the Congress said no to an alliance with AAP. The anti-BJP votes will get split and it will benefit the BJP, 19-year-old Mohammad Azhar said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Supreme Court on Wednesday declined to entertain the Congresss complaint against a string of clean chits handed out by the Election Commission to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP boss Amit Shah. A bench led by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said they could not go into orders passed by the poll panel unless these were specifically challenged. Congress leader Sushmita Dev had initially approached the Supreme Court on April 29, accusing the poll panel of inaction on complaints that PM Modi and Amit Shah had violated the model code of conduct. In the initial petition, the Silchar lawmaker had listed several complaints against the two leaders for their election speeches. After the Supreme Court got into the picture, the election commission fast-tracked the complaints that had been pending for weeks. On May 2, the Supreme Court also set a deadline for the election commission to clear the backlog of complaints against the PM. But the poll panel did not file any instance of poll code violation against PM Modi. On Monday, the Congress leader filed another affidavit alleging that the Election Commissions decisions were arbitrary and lacked transparency because the commission had withheld the dissent note submitted by one of the three election commissioners. We dont see how we can go into the orders of the Election Commission unless a specific challenge is made, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, refusing to entertain the petition that had been filed against the delayed action by the panel. In its new affidavit, Dev had also cited a complaint filed with the EC on May 6 the Congress partys most recent one after PM Modi reportedly made unprecedented, obscene and derogatory remarks in a speech against former Prime Minister of India, the late Rajiv Gandhi. At least eight people including three police officials have been killed in an explosion outside Data Darbar in Lahore, GeoNews reported on Wednesday. Around 24 people have been injured. The blast targetted a van carrying the Elite Force of Punjab Police, reports Pak media. The Supreme Court on Wednesday disposed of the petition filed by Congress Member of Parliament Sushmita Dev last month, where she had alleged inaction by the Election Commission on violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Prime Minster Narendra Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah. A bench, led by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, said the petition had become infructuous as the instances of purported violations, which dealt with complaints of alleged hate speech and usage of armed forces for political propaganda, had been dealt with by the poll body. The Commission has decided rightly or wrongly the pending complaints against the Prime Minister and the BJP President, the merits of the orders can be challenged only by filing a fresh petition, the bench said. The court also refused to entertain Congress complaint against a string of clean chits handed out by the EC to Modi and Shah, saying it would not go into these issues, unless they are specifically challenged. On Tuesday, Dev had filed an affidavit alleging that the ECs decisions were arbitrary and lacked transparency because it had withheld the dissenting note submitted by one of the three commissioners examining the complaints. Addressing Congress lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhivi on Wednesday, the bench said, Instead of filing an affidavit you should have filed a petition challenging the order of the Election Commission. According to persons in the know, who did not wish to be named, election commissioner Ashok Lavasa had differed with the majority view in five different complaints of model code violations against Modi and Shah. As the rules allow for the order to be issued on the basis of a majority, the PM and Shah were given clean chits in all the cases. HT had seen two of these orders and there was no mention of a dissenting voice in them. We dont see how we can go into the orders of the commission unless a specific challenge is made, the order by the bench of Justice Gogoi and Justice Deepak Gupta, stated. Our writ petition had technically served its purpose, because all 11 complaints were decided only due to the writ and had not decided earlier for weeks. The SC on May 6 had allowed us to file affidavit by today which we did. The court has now asked us to file a fresh writ and grants us the liberty to do so. Though we believe technicality should not override substance, we have liberty and may file a fresh writ, Singhvi said. Dev had approached the SC on April 29, accusing the poll panel of inaction on complaints against Modi and Shah. Soon after that the EC fast-tracked action on pending complaints. The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld a Madras High Court order granting bail to a man arrested by the National investigation Agency (NIA) on the charge of being a sympathiser of the terror outfit, Islamic State, in 2017. The top court held that a charge sheet had already been filed against the four suspects in the case and that two of them were already released on bail. The high court had in 2018 set aside a special court order extending the detention of the suspects under Section 43D of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), 1967. A bench led by Justice AM Khanwilkar said: We cannot be oblivious of the changed circumstances which has been brought to our notice regarding the present FIR dated 26th January, 2017. A charge sheet has been filed against all the four accused persons (A1 to A4) including the accused respondent (A3) on 13th March, 2018 and the accused no. 2 and accused no. 4 are on bail from 23rd January, 2019 and 19th November, 2018 and the matter is pending for framing of charge and it is not the case of the appellant that the present accused respondent after being enlarged on bail in compliance of the impugned judgment dated 12th September, 2018 has committed any breach or violated the conditions of grant of bail [sic]. With this order, the court disposed of the NIA appeal. However, the courts reason to grant bail to accused Shakul Hameed, a resident of Chennai, was different from the one given by the high court. To conclude, we are not in agreement with the conclusions arrived at by the High Court in the impugned judgment dated 12th September, 2018, but taking note of the later developments and the supporting facts brought to our notice, we are not inclined to interfere with the final relief to the extent of granting default bail to the accused respondent in the circumstances of the case on hand, the bench said. The top court also said that prosecution can apply for cancellation of bail to the accused, if any exigency arises in future. The apex court also asked the NIA court hearing the matter to expedite and conclude the trial on or before March, 2020. The NIA had alleged that Hameed was involved in a criminal conspiracy and was instrumental in forming a terrorist gang, raised funds and trained some personnel and facilitated their travel from India to Syria to join the IS. Hamid too had attempted to join IS/Daesh in Syria but was intercepted by the Turkish authorities while attempting to cross over to Syria and deported to India from Turkey on 29th August, 2015, the agency claimed. He was arrested and remanded in judicial custody on September 18, 2017. The Bhartiya Kamgar Sena (BKS), the trade union wing of the Shiv Sena, on Wednesday led a protest by the staff of Jet Airways, seeking the governments intervention to solve the crisis facing the beleaguered airline. Once the countrys largest private airline, Jet halted all flight operations indefinitely on April 17 after failing to secure emergency funds from its lenders. Some 20,000 employees have not been paid salaries since December last year as the airline struggled with a lack of cash before suspending operations. BKS said around 10,000 Jet Airways staff, including cabin crew, engineering staff and ground staff, participated in the protest at level 4 of Terminal 2 from 10am to 12pm. The Sena-backed union has appealed the government to force the State Bank of India (SBI) to help debt-laden Jet Airways financially as they had assured to lend money after Naresh Goyal stepped down, but did not do so. The union said they are hopeful of seeing good bidding results on May 10, however, if the process did not have a positive outcome then they would reach out to the aviation and financial ministers in Delhi and would also disrupt flight operations at the Mumbai airport if needed. Also read: Other airlines fill in the void left by Jet Airways; flier footfall increases We want Jet Airways to revive and all the pending salaries to be paid. If there are no positive results out of the bidding process, we will make this as a huge protest and will close Mumbai airport, BKS general secretary Santosh Chalke said. Sandip Kumar Dubey, an employee, said they were facing hardships as they had not received their salary since the last three to four months. We are carrying out a silent protest here to convey our message to the government. Please listen to us. We have people dependent on us. We have not got our salary for three to four months while some senior employees have not been paid for five months, he said while speaking to reporters, according to news agency ANI. Dayal Shahdeo, another employee, said the government or any authorised body should help revive the airline so that it can go back to serve the people. We want to become the best airline, not only in India but in the world. We need just a little bit of support to achieve this, he said. Also read: Opinion | Tata and Jet Airways: What goes around comes around On Tuesday, pilots of the grounded airline approached the Supreme Court seeking its direction to SBI to provide the assured interim finance for restarting operations. The National Aviators Guild said in its petition that SBIs decision to not give the interim funding of Rs 15 billion, after agreeing to it in March as part a resolution plan, has resulted in the airline being grounded and has impacted the livelihood of Jets 22,000 employees. The respondents have deliberately, or otherwise, brought down the value of Jet Airways and as of now, there are no bidders who have submitted the bid to SBI. Consequently, the employees of Jet Airways have not been paid for the last four months and have lost all hope of the revival of the airlines, the plea said. (With agency inputs) The Supreme Court on Tuesday transferred a case related to the alleged custodial death of a suspect, arrested in connection with the gang rape and murder of a minor schoolgirl in Himachal Pradesh in 2017, from Shimla to Chandigarh. The trial in the case was moved to Chandigarh after the Central Bureau of Investigation and the police officers, who have been named accused in the custodial death case, said they had no objection if it was no longer heard in Shimla. The gang rape-cum-murder of the minor was reported from Kotkhai district in Himachal Pradesh July 6, 2017. Six persons were arrested by a special investigation team formed to the probe the case. However, the case was transferred to the CBI after one of the suspects allegedly died in police custody on July 18, 2017. We order transfer of the case to a competent CBI court in Chandigarh, a bench led by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said on Tuesday. The court was informed that the charge sheet has been filed in the case against police officers, including former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Zahur Haider Zaidi. The top court had last month granted bail to Zaidi, who along with seven other policemen were arrested by the central agency in the case. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has been criticised for calling former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi corrupt, on Wednesday launched a scathing counterstrike at Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and his party with a laundry list of abuses hurled at him, before and after becoming the prime minister. PM Modi said he had decided to speak about the various descriptors that had been used for him to unmask the veil of love that was being spoken about by Congress leaders. Do you want to hear what words they used for me from their dictionary of love How they expressed their love, he said at an election rally in Haryanas Kurukshetra on Wednesday before listing the abusive words. This is the truth of Congresss dictionary of love, PM Modi said, a clear rebuttal to Rahul Gandhi who frequently accuses PM Modi of spreading hatred and presents himself who has only love in his heart. WATCH: Congress awarding people who were part of 1984 anti-Sikh riots: PM Modi The 48-year-old Congress chief had responded to PM Modis recent attack on his father who was assassinated in May 1991with a tweet that sent the prime minister his love, and hugs. A growing list of opposition leaders have criticised the prime minister for calling Rajiv Gandhi who died 28 years ago corrupt No 1. Rahuls sister Priyanka Gandhi had called the PM remark an insult to a politician who had laid down his life for the country. Also read | Instead of punishing those guilty for 1984 riots, Congress rewards them: PM Modi PM Modi did not get into the row over Rajiv Gandhi at the rally. In tweets from one of his many interviews, the BJP had hours earlier quoted PM Modi explaining that he had just mentioned what he described as an established fact and wondering why the Congress and its ecosystem had no qualms clapping when he was abused. The prime ministers effort at the rally was not only designed to pump up his supporters but also underline that Congress leaders had, irrespective of Rahul Gandhis stress on spreading love, use vile remarks for him too. But the way Congress naamdaar is showing his dictionary of love, no one is questioning him. So I am placing all the facts before the country, he said. They have spread so many lies about me, PM Modi said asking people to circulate the video of his speech to their relatives and friends throughout the country. Spread the word around on social media about these one-sided attacks on me, he said to loud cheering from the gathering The prime minister said the many abuses that he had listed was just a sample to just show how many times the Congress had crossed the line. Also read | Priyanka Gandhi wasting time campaigning in Delhi: Arvind Kejriwal Two Maoists, including a woman, were killed in Dantewada district of Chhattisgarhs Bastar region in an early morning gun battle with security forces on Wednesday, police said. The encounter took place at the border of Malangir and Katekalyan area committees of the CPI(Maoist), where their cadres were present. The BJPs legislator Bheema Mandavi, a Doordarshan journalist and about a dozen security forces have been killed in the last six months in Malangir area. Dantewada Police had launched a massive operation across Malangir after Bheema Mandavis death on April 9. Officials said police recovered an Insas rifle, 12 bore gun, ammunition, Maoist literature and items of daily use from the spot after the exchange of fire ended. The encounter took place at around 4.45am in Gonderas village when a team of District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Special Task Force (STF) was out on an anti-Maoist operation in the jungles, Dantewadas superintendent of police Abhishek Pallava said. When the team was moving through Gonderas village, located at the border of Dantewada-Sukma districts, a group of the Maoists fired at the forces. The security forces took a position and a gun battle took place for about 30 minutes, Pallava said. The senior police official said they have also recovered the bodies of two Maoists, which are yet to be identified. More details of the encounter, he said, will be received the team returns from the spot. Seven Maoists have surrendered to security forces and a dozen rebels have been killed in several encounters in Dantewada district in the recent past. On April 2, Dantewada Police gunned down 29-year-old Maoist commander Mandavi Muiya. He was active in Malangir area and carrying a reward of Rs 8 lakh on his head. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A UK court on Wednesday denied bail to diamantaire Nirav Modi for the third time even though he offered to furnish security deposit of 2 million pounds and follow strict conditions such as a 24-hour curfew. Modi, who is facing an extradition request from India, has been twice denied bail by the Westminster Magistrates Court after his arrest in March. Clare Montgomery, lawyer for Modi, described conditions in the Wandsworth jail where he is lodged as difficult, vivid and damaging, but chief magistrate Emma Arbuthnot rejected grounds cited to seek bail, saying she continued to have concerns if bail is granted. Arbuthnot, however, agreed that the offer to double the security deposit from 1 million pounds amounted to a change of circumstances which is necessary to prove to apply for bail after it has been refused. Modi was twice denied bail on March 20 and 29, when the 1 million pound-deposit was offered. The judges concerns were about $60 million allegedly squirreled away by Modi, to which he would have access, his lack of links to the United Kingdom, where he has been since the end of 2017, and the likelihood of he or his associates intimidating witnesses and destroying evidence. The extradition trial is due to begin on May 30, by when the Indian government is expected to furnish more details and evidence of allegations against Modi, who is facing charges of what prosecuting lawyer Nicholas Hearn said direct embezzlement of funds derived from a Mumbai branch of the Punjab National Bank. Hearn of the Crown Prosecution Service representing India said: 60 million dollars of proceeds of crime are still untraceable, investigations are ongoing. He is able to influence witnesses and evidence if bailed. The court cannot have confidence in the assurances cited. He clearly remains a man with access to substantial resources. Montgomerys efforts to refute allegations against Modi were described by the judge as compelling. She claimed that the issue arose out of a corporate failure, and told the court that the Enforcement Directorate had already seized Modis assets worth more than that lost by PNB: 7664 crore worth of assets allegedly seized against 6498 crore loss to PNB. Modis lawyer also refuted the prosecution claim that he had travelled to New York in 2018. He could have moved to other countries, Montgomery said, adding that for him the UK was a safe haven, which was incentive enough for him not to breach conditions, if bail were granted. Extracts of transcripts of conversations between various witnesses and Modi and his brother, Nehal Modi, were read out in the court. A team from Central Bureau of Investigation and ED attended the hearing. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Supreme Court appointed mediation panel, formed to explore the possibility of a negotiated settlement of the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute, may seek more time to submit its findings, according to one of the litigants who participated in the talks. We have informed the panel that we will not be able to attend any of its meetings over the next month in the wake of Ramzan, said one of the members of the Babri side, requesting anonymity. Meanwhile, the Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas and the Nirmohi Akhara differ on the issue of extension to the panel. The Nyas is opposed to any extension but the Nirmohi Akhara has no objection. On March 8, the apex court had appointed a three-member mediation committee, headed by Justice (retired) FM Ibrahim Kalifulla and comprising senior advocate Sriram Panchu and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as its members, to hold dialogue with litigants in the Ayodhya case. The panel was given 8 weeks time to submit its report. The panel held its first meeting in an attempt to resolve the dispute with litigants in Faizabad on March 13. More than 50 people, including legal representatives of parties to the dispute, attended the first meeting. Subsequently, we have had three more such sessions but Muslim members expressed their inability to attend the meeting during Ramzan, said this member. In view of this the panel, the deadline of which comes to an end on May 13 (going by its first meeting), is expected to seek more time from the SC to submit its report. Though we have not received any official communication from the committee so far, we feel that a two-month extension may be given if the panel decides to meet us again, said a counsel of one of the representatives. The Supreme Court is hearing 14 appeals against the 2010 Allahabad high court judgment, delivered in four civil suits, that the 2.77-acre site in Ayodhya be partitioned equally among the three parties -- the Sunni Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhara and Ram Lalla. NYAS, AKHARA DIFFFER Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, head of the Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas, said: We are against any extension of tenure to the Supreme Courts panel. All efforts have already been made to resolve the dispute through mediation, The Nyas has been spearheading the Ram Mandir movement across the country. Now, the court must decide the matter as all hearings in the case have been completed, added the mahant. However, in a meeting on Tuesday evening, the Nirmohi Akhara decided not to oppose any extension to the panels tenure. Whatever the Supreme Court decides we will readily accept. We do not have any objection if the Supreme Court extends the panels tenure, said Mahant Dhinendra Das, head of the Nirmohi Akhara. I am hopeful that the SC panel will be able to resolve the dispute, he added. It may be pointed out that the Nyas and Akhara have always been at loggerheads over the issue of mediation in the Ayodhya dispute. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), too, is also opposed to any extension to the panel. We want a final judgment in the case. We do not want any extension to the panel, said Sharad Sharma, regional spokesperson, VHP, who operates from Karsevakpuram, Ayodhya. During the month-long period of the model code of conduct before Mumbai went to Lok Sabha polls on April 29, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) found 9,137 illegal banners, posters and wall defacements, all political in nature, bearing names of parties or leaders. However, the civic body prosecuted offenders in only 52 cases. According to civic officials, between January 2018 and January 2019, BMC had removed 12,457 illegal banners and posters, of which 7,167 were political. According to the latest data from BMCs licence department, of the 9,137, 1,415 were posters, 2,248 were banners, 4,587 were wall or tree hangings, cut-outs at signal or lamp posts, political flags, and 882 were wall writings and defacements. Of these, 369 were found on private property. The superintendent of BMCs licence department, Sharad Bande, said, In cases where these hoardings are on private walls or buildings, but are facing the road and are visible from it, then they come under BMCs jurisdiction. However, the low figure of cases for which the BMC launched prosecutions has irked activists, who said the only way to discourage parties from repeating such offences is by prosecuting in every single case. Activist Nikhil Desai pointed out that there is a high court order that has chalked out a procedure for legal action in such cases of defacement of public property. He said, According to this order, BMC must lodge FIRs against the city head of the respective political party, regardless of which party worker put up the poster. It is the job of the city head to make sure his party workers do not use the party or candidates name for such illegal activity. Bhagwanji Rayani, an activist who had filed a public interest litigation (PIL) in the high court regarding the matter, said, Under the Defacement of Property Act, putting up illegal hoardings is a cognisable offence. In each case, there should be an FIR. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday said the Rafale deal would be probed if his party came to power after the Lok Sabha elections and claimed the inquiry would throw up two names - that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Anil Ambani. Gandhi once again challenged Modi for a debate on the Rafale deal at any place except Ambanis residence and maintained the prime minister would not be able to face the country as truth in the deal would surface. Addressing a poll rally here, Gandhi also raked up the 1999 release of Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar to attack Modi over the issue of nationalism. Raising questions over why the contract related to Rafale was awarded to Ambani, Gandhi asked Modi to come clear on why the fighter jet was purchased at Rs 1,600 crore (per plane) from France by the NDA govement as against Rs 526 crore negotiated by the Congerss-led UPA regime. You (Modi) wont be able to debate with me on the issue for 15 minutes...you wont be able to stand before India. Remember one thing, no can be saved from the truth. There would be probe into the Rafale scam and two names will come: Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani, Gandhi said. In the past, Ambani has claimed the government had no role in his company, Reliance Defence, getting an offset contract related to the Rafale deal. On the release of Jaish-e-Mohammed founder Azhar, Gandhi said it was a BJP, and not a Congress, government that had released the terrorist. The BJP government took the terrorist out from Indias jail, put him aboard a plane, BJPs minister took the (same) flight and BJPs minister gave money to Jaish-e- Mohammed. And the same terrorist killed CRPF men in Pulwama. Modi should answer who did this job, Gandhi said. Azhar and two other terrorists were set free by the Vajpayee government in exchange of hostages of the IC-814 Indian Airlines flight hijacked to Kandahar in December 1999. Azhar later went on to set up the Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror outfit that claimed responsibility for the February 14 suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama. Gandhi also hit out at BJP leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for alleging that farmers have not received benefits of the loan waiver announced by the Kamal Nath government in the state. To drive home his point, the Congress chief said Chouhans brothers were among those who had received loan waiver. Gandhi talked about the partys Nyay scheme, a minimum income guarantee programme that envisaged giving Rs 72,000 per year to five crore poor families of the country. He said that the Congress will ensure farmers are not jailed in the event their failure to repay debts, if it is voted to power. Gwalior is among the eight Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh that will vote on May 12. PTI COR LAL ADU ENM RSY RSY Higher voter turnout numbers so far in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh may suggest a closer contest in these two states that together send 54 representatives to Parliament, although theres no telling how this will play out in terms of number of seats. Voter turnout figures after the fifth round of polling for the 2019 general elections suggest that Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are turning out to be outliers among major states. Both states have recorded a significantly higher voter turnout than what they did in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. To be sure, voting is yet to take place in 16 out of 29 parliamentary constituencies (PCs) in Madhya Pradesh. However, the PCs which have voted so far have registered a large increase in turnout. (See Chart 1) What explains this seemingly extraordinary trend? An HT analysis suggests that it could be a reflection of restoration of political competition between the BJP and the Congress unlike in 2014, when a BJP victory was almost a forgone conclusion. Heres why. Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh recorded a turnout of 75.6% and 72.6% in the 2013 assembly elections. This fell sharply to 63.1% and 61.6% in the 2014 Lok Sabha. The numbers went up once again to 74.8% and 75.6% in the 2018 assembly elections. The 2019 turnout figures seem to be aligned more to the 2018 and 2013 figures rather than the 2014 numbers. Looking at absolute number of votes can help us understand why this happened. Total number of votes polled went down from 30.9 million and 33.9 million in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh in 2013 to 27.1 million and 29.7 million in 2014. The BJP marginally increased its absolute number of votes between these elections. It was the Congress and other non-BJP parties which saw their total number of votes come down between 2013 and 2014. The BJP achieved huge victories in direct contests against the Congress in the 2013 assembly elections in both these states. These victories made it the favourite for the 2014 race. One possible explanation for the decline in absolute number of voters in these states could be that a section of anti-BJP voters did not go out to vote as they had resigned themselves to an imminent defeat in any case. Similar patterns, although in smaller magnitudes can also be seen in the states of Gujarat and Chhattisgarh, also states where the BJP defeated the Congress in an assembly contest before the 2014 Lok Sabha. Things changed in each of these states in the assembly elections held after 2014. Absolute number of voters went up and it was the Congress rather than the BJP which added voters compared to its 2014 tally. (See Chart 2) The only other big state which had experienced a decline in the number of total votes between the preceding assembly election (2013) and 2014 Lok Sabha is Karnataka. However, both the national parties increased their absolute number of votes between the 2013 and 2014 elections. It was the regional player Janata Dal (Secular) whose votes went down. This could be a result of lack of enthusiasm among JD(S) voters due to lower stakes in a national poll. To be sure, decline in number of voters between a preceding assembly election and Lok Sabha election is not something which happened for the first time in 2014. Even in 2009, eight major states (Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu) experienced a decline in the absolute number of votes without a decline in number of electors. However, unlike in 2014, the costs and benefits of a decline in number of voters were not limited to one party like in 2014. For example, in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, both the BJP and the Congress suffered an absolute decline in their number of votes between 2008 assembly and 2009 Lok Sabha elections. The Election Commission of India has ordered re-election in 168 polling stations in 26 assembly constituencies of Tripura West parliamentary constituency after the opposition parties in the state raised allegations of massive booth capturing and violence. Polling was held on April 11 in West Tripura constituency as part of the first phase of Lok Sabha election 2019. polls taken on 11th April, 2019 (Thursday) at 168 polling stations to be void and appoints the 12th May, 2019 (Sunday) and fixes the hours from 7 AM to 5 PM for taking a fresh poll the poll body said in a statement. The Tripura West Lok Sabha seat had recorded a voter turnout of 83% when the constituency went to polls on April 11. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) had demanded re-polling in 774 of the 1,679 booths, where voting was held on April 11. The Congress, too, alleged violations by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in several booths, demanding the resignations of S Taranikanti, the states chief electoral officer, and director general of police AK Shukla. A majority of voters could not exercise their franchise on April 11 and the Election Commission of India should take steps to allow them to enjoy their constitutional rights. We demand that the Election Commission issues instructions for re-polling in these booths. Moreover, if the Commission feels the need to conduct re-polls in the entire West Tripura constituency, we will surely welcome it, CPI(M) secretary Goutam Das had said. The CPI(M) also claimed that footage of CCTV cameras installed in the polling booths on April 11 was scrutinised without their presence on April 12 and 13 and demanded scrutiny should be done in the presence of all political parties. The Congress also brought similar allegations regarding scrutiny of the video footage and demanded that the commission should conduct fresh polls in the constituency. Our party delegation met deputy Election Commissioner Sudip Jain and said none of our party representatives was present during the video footages scrutiny by the chief electoral officer of Tripura. We believe the report sent by the state election authority was submitted to ECI with the intention of suppressing the real fact of mass rigging. For this, we demand that a fresh poll in the West Tripura constituency should be done, Congress secretary Rahul Saha had said. The BJP had accused both the CPI(M) and the Congress of being involved in a conspiracy to defer polling. The Election Commission had deferred voting in the Tripura East Lok Sabha seat in the third phase to April 23 from April 18, saying the prevailing law-and-order situation was not conducive for holding a free and fair election. After BJP workers chimney processions in Bhopal and Sehore to remind people of the power outages during the Congress government under Digvijaya Singh, the partys candidate Pragya Thakur released a vision document on Wednesday to show her commitment to developing the Madhya Pradesh capital. Pragya Thakurs vision document comes just three days before the polls and 17 days after her rival Digvijaya Singh released a similar paper on Bhopal. Bhopal will vote in the sixth round of the seven-phased Lok Sabha election on May 12. The votes will be counted on May 23. The Bharatiya Janata Party leader has given topmost priority to employment for youth in the document. She has said young entrepreneurs will get a loan of 50 lakh and a guarantee against 50% of the loan for women and 25% to men. There will be concerted efforts to set up as many as 50,000 start-ups by 2024, she promised. The document talks of central government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna and pension for farmers with small land holdings. It also talks of digital connectivity, a quality life to the poor with help of central government schemes, international flights and new trains from Bhopal, giving a boost to the smart city project, skill development, making AIIMS at Bhopal as one of the best in the country among other issues. The document highlights the alleged misrule of the then Digvijaya Singh government during which, as Pragya Thakur has alleged, Bhopal lacked basic civic amenities and the state witnessed power outages, potholed roads and poor law and order situation. The vision document is just a part of my vision on development. The other plans will come later, Pragya Thakur said while speaking to journalists. Notably, the Congress candidate Digvijaya Singh is also contesting the Lok Sabha election on his development plank. In 2003, his government of ten years was dislodged by the BJP on the issues of bijli, sadak, pani or power, road and water. Digvijaya Singhs vision document released on April 21 talked of developing Bhopal as a tourist and educational hub, better air connectivity, developing of a farmer city, mega logistic and warehouse zone, water and home to all, safe capital for safety to women, old and children, conservation of water bodies etc. The BJPs media coordinator for the Bhopal parliamentary constituency Dr Hitesh Bajpai said Pragya Thakurs vision document is based on what we can do for a better Bhopal. It doesnt offer imaginary development plans which are not possible unlike the Congress candidates vision document, Bajpai said. The spokesperson of Congress Madhya Pradesh unit Santosh Gautam said the BJPs was forced to release its document as it was threatened by his partys agenda of development. That Pragya Thakur has released her vision document just three days prior to polling is a glaring example of her real vision on development. Its just an exercise for her which has no meaning. It was brought under pressure as Congress is talking of development only and people too are going to vote in the name of development, Gautam said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis rally to be held at Ramlila Maidan on Wednesday, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday questioned the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for not fulfilling its promise of full statehood to Delhi. Addressing a press conference Tuesday, the Aam Aadmi Partys Delhi unit convener Gopal Rai posed five questions to the BJP. During the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, at the same Ramlila Maidan, you had promised full statehood to Delhi. Five years have passed and you have forgotten your promise, leave alone fulfilling it. Why did you lie about it? he said. On May 12, Delhi will vote in the sixth phase of the general elections. The Aam Aadmi Party said before making fresh promises to garner votes at Ramlila Maidan, Modi should speak on the promises he made in 2014. He said the PM should tell the people of Delhi why they get only 325 crore in return when they pay 1.5 lakh crore in tax. The third question is why are the people of Delhi treated as second-class citizens even though they supported the BJP in the last elections and gave the party all seven MPs? The fourth question is why is an ordinance not being brought to stop the sealing, which has badly affected the trader community, Rai asked. The AAP leader asked why a special manifesto was not released for Delhi by the BJP and questioned the latters plan for the city. Claiming that the Congress is preparing for the 2024 polls , Rai said the Congress has accepted defeat and is telling volunteers to lay the foundation for 2024. The BJP, in turn, said that the AAP was resorting to theatrics. I want to remind Arvind Kejriwal about his oath-taking at Ramlila Maidan. He is enjoying all government facilities despite promising not to use any . The AAP leaders have become mere spokespersons who comment from their AC rooms, said Vijender Gupta, BJPs leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly. Meenakshi Lekhi, the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) candidate from the New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency, is contesting elections for the second time. A Supreme Court lawyer and the BJPs national spokesperson, Lekhi will take on Congresss Ajay Maken, a two-time MP from the seat, and Brijesh Goyal, a first-timer from the AAP. In an interview with HT, Lekhi talks about her priorities, which she says is beyond the political narrative of sealing. She asserts that on May 12, residents of New Delhi will vote for improved quality of life and national security, in the larger interest of the country. Excerpts: Q. If you have to pick three key issues in the New Delhi Lok Sabha constituency as priorities, what would they be? A. The first thing I will do is to launch Swachh Bharat 2.0 (clean India). Furthering the clean India campaign will be my first priority for the New Delhi seat. A lot still has to be done in the domestic waste and sewerage sectors. In the first phase, we focused on personal hygiene by cleaning our neighbourhoods and building toilets. Now, the focus will be on cleansing the back-end system by effectively implementing the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. Skill training is my other priority. There are a lot of youths in my area from lower income groups who are jobless even after having a BA degree. Ill provide them access to jobs by imparting skill training of 3-6 months, which would assure them jobs of about R 25,000 at least. The third would be to increase the telecom network in the area. People have come to me with a lot of complaints of poor network and call drops. Besides, I will also push for green energy by launching a rooftop solar scheme. Q. Your priorities are quite different from your Congress and AAP competitors. You did not mention the issue of sealing against commercial establishments at all. Why? A. A political brouhaha is being created about sealing and it is not helping the traders to say the least. The issue needs careful and strong handling in the Supreme Court, not on mics. In any case, we have already amended the Master Plan for Delhi, 2021, wherein Floor Area Ratio (FAR) norms were relaxed for local shopping centres and one-time conversion charges were reduced. The whole mess was created by Maken in 2006 who as the then union urban development minister had shoddily made amendments to the master plan. AAPs Goyal doesnt even know how governments operate because had he known then he would have first asked the Kejriwal-led government in Delhi to notify 351 roads in Delhi as commercial, which would solve half of the problem at one go. Q. Is the anti-incumbency factor at play in your constituency? A. Not at all. I have worked honestly day and night for the locals here. Also, people want to give a second chance to the BJP at the centre as they feel Modi will be able to ensure national security. But, people are supporting me even going beyond the Modi factor. Q. There is a perception that you are inaccessible. What do you have to say about it? A. I am not a councillor and there are 10 MLAs in my constituency. I have always been open to interact with people. I respond to everybodys text messages, if I am unable to call each one of them. Besides, anybody can walk into my office or house on Friday any time of the day. Rest of the week, I have a fixed timing for meeting public. Q. Who is a bigger competition for you AAP or the BJP? A. None actually. Both are on slippery grounds after they tried to forge an alliance in Delhi. People will vote wisely as they are aware that even now the two parties have a secret alliance. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON At a sarv jaati (all-caste) blood donation camp in the middle of a busy market in Porsa, Union rural development minister Narendra Singh Tomar explains how the Narendra Modi governments social schemes suit the influential upper castes as well. Those who have not got free gas (Ujjwala) connections, will get them in 2020. I can see a lot of people from the respected Vaishya samaj. Now we have constructed 3 crore houses for the poor. But to build them, cement, doors, windows, fans, bricks were required. So, the money has returned to the traders, says Tomar, amid applause. A few hours later, under the shadow of a banyan tree in a village, Tomar talks about how Modi spends his holidays with jawans at the border. When Pulwama happened, the forces were a given free hand to take revenge. Modi ko PM banao (Make Modi the prime minister), he tells the crowd. It suits the audience. For, this Dhaneta village, full of Rajput and Brahmin households, sends most of its young lads to the Indian Army every year. Tomar, a Thakur or Rajput, is playing his cards well and clearly focuses on mobilising the Thakurs, Brahmins, Banias and the Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in his favour. His ministry has implemented several social welfare projects but he talks primarily about Ujjwala (piloted by the petroleum ministry) and the PM housing scheme, the two most popular ones that have created direct beneficiaries. For, the minister of rural development, parliamentary affairs and mines possibly knows that he faces a tough contest. The BJP has not lost a Lok Sabha poll in this belt of Chambal since 1998. But this time its up against a different Congress. In the Madhya Pradesh assembly election in December 2018, the Congress won seven of the eight assembly segments, which translates into a potential lead of 120,000 votes over the BJP in Morena in this national election. This is a battle that possibly sums up the election war in Madhya Pradesh: The BJPs longstanding record of victory faces a stiff challenge from a rejuvenated Congress that returned to power in the state after 15 years. Violence and Baghis (armed rebels) have subsided in this Chambal region, but caste lines still run deep in society, and electoral politics is no exception to caste factors. We have two sitting Brahmin MLAs. The contestant, Ramnivas Rawat, is an OBC. Yes, the BJP has never lost Morena in the last 23 years. But after 35 years, we won Amba assembly seat. After 20 years, we won Dimni and Morena assembly seats. We will improve our lead, says Congress Morena district president Rakesh Mavai, a Gujjar face of the party. Busy preparing for Congress chief Rahul Gandhis upcoming rally, Mavai adds, Local matters, not national issues, work here. We have a sitting MLA from the Kushwaha community. And let me tell you Rajput voters are not entirely happy with Tomar. Local BJP leaders say in the last assembly polls, then chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans remark that theres no mai ka laal (mothers son) who can change caste-based reservations had irked upper caste voters. But this time there is no such adverse factor, they claim. In this direct contest between the BJP and Congress, the entry of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) candidate Kartar Singh Bhadana has made things more interesting. The Congress is not happy as he is poised to divide the Gujjar and Dalit votes, the two key bases for the Congress to take on the BJP. The BSP candidate has been imported from Haryana. When the people need their representative, will they go to Haryana? asks Mavai, laughing. The Congress is also banking on its tallest leader in the state, Jyotiraditya Scindia, to win the seat after 23 years. They are also banking on a division of upper caste votes. While Akhand Pratap Singh, a BJP supporter, says, Thakurs have no other choice. He is the only Thakur minister from MP in the Union cabinet, Raghuvir, a young Brahmin of Dhaneta village, tells this correspondent, Do you know mantri ji? Tell him that if he had worked well in the last five years, he would not have had to slog at this rate now. AP Singh Chauhan, head of the political science department in Gwaliors Jiyaji University, feels Morena will see a tough contest. Morena is divided by sub castes of Thakurs. A section of the Rajputs and Jatavs may vote en masse for the Congress. Seats like Morena will actually test the strength of the BJP if it has the capability to turn the tide after the assembly poll defeat. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Scion of the royal family of Rampur-Bushahr, Virbhadra Singh, addressed as Raja Sahib by his followers, is an old war horse of the Congress in Himachal Pradesh. He is only few days shy of turning 85, but when it comes to campaigning hard, the six-term chief minister can still give young leaders a run for their money. On a campaign spree, Virbhadra canvasses till late hours, criss-crossing different rural assembly segments in the four parliamentary constituencies to address three to four poll meetings a day. HT followed the veteran leader as he campaigns in the interiors of Indora, Fatehpur and Jawali sub-divisions of politically significant Kangra Lok Sabha seat. At Nurpur Its 8 am and at a hotel in the border town of Nurpur, his aides are making arrangements for the days journey. The former Nurpur legislator Ajay Mahajan has just arrived and is holding discussion with the party candidate Pawan Kajal. The octogenarian leader, donning a Jodhpuri seat and green Himachali cap, emerges from his room after an hour. He takes feedback from Mahajan and Kajal about the situation in Kangra and they assure him about the partys strong footing. After savouring a simple breakfast comprising fruits and cornflakes, Virbhadra takes time out to meet supporters waiting outside to meet him. At Gangnath Its a hot day with the sun beating down hard, the cavalcade sets off at 11:15 am towards Gangatha small town in Indora assembly segment about 12km from Nurpur running at least one hour behind schedule. Enthusiastic party workers rush to welcome the former CM as he alights from his SUV. As the audience jostles to garland Virbhadra, supporters continue to shout slogans. Virbhadra, who entered electoral politics in 1962, tells people how Congress worked hard after independence to strengthen the countrys economy and towards overall development. Speaking on the political scenario in Kangra, Virbhadra says Congress nominee Pawan Kajal was a strong candidate and rival leaders of the ruling BJP were mistaken if they consider him weak. Its the war for dominance in BJP that will help Congress win all four seats in Himachal, says the veteran leader as he further touches upon every issue, national and local. He also accused the BJP of playing divisive politics on the basis of caste, creed, region and religion. Unka kewal ek maksad hai, logon ko gumrah karke satta hasil karna (Their sole motive is to get into the power by misleading people), Virbhadra tells attendees. He advises party workers to leave aside differences and work together to strengthen the party. Also Read | Lok Sabha election 2019: Issues, key players and more on Himachal Pradesh At Fatehpur The poll meeting has consumed much time and Virbhadra is now headed for the next destination Fatepur. But before that, he takes a lunch break where he eats simple dal-chawal and salad. At Fatepur, supporters are waiting anxiously for Virbhadra. Congress state secretary Ravi Rathore says although people were busy harvesting their wheat crop, they have taken time out to listen to the veteran leader. Such is his charisma that people came here leaving their important work, he says. A short while later, about 2:15 pm Virbhadras fleet is seen taking a turn small dirt road to the venue from the national highway. As the afternoon sun sends the temperature soaring, fatigue seems to have taken its toll on the 84-year-old Virbhadra. The crowd jostles to greet their leader, while his aides help him remove the garlands and reach the stage. Kushal Thakur, a long time security officer of Virbhadra, says the octogenarian leader now gets tired soon. He doesnt talk much and takes rest in the car when travelling. Sometimes, it leaves me in wonder as to how he keeps defying his age, says Thakur. Slams BJP in speech Meanwhile, Virbhadra takes a jibe at BJP candidates stating they were hoping to secure victory on PM Modis name. However, he said the voters are wise and BJP and PM cannot befool them with jumlas. He reminded the audience about how they have suffered due to BJP governments disastrous steps like demonetisation and GST. The public will not forgive the saffron party and will throw them out of power this election, he says. Virbhadra also slammed the state BJP government for failing to live up to peoples expectation, but had words of praise for CM Jai Ram Thakur. Jai Ram is honest. He could do a lot for the state but a coterie of BJP leaders is not allowing him to work, he says. He keeps his speech short as there is yet another meeting to be addressed. Before leaving for the next venue in Jawali, Virbhadra makes it a point to meet his staunch supporter and former minister Sujan Singh Pathania, who is not keeping well. At Pathanias residence Virbhadra inquires about his health while assuring him he will be fine soon. At Jawali After a 15 minute halt he heads for Jawali, where he gets a rousing welcome. While local leaders speak, Virbhadra takes time out to talk to this reporter. Its by Gods grace I am still going strong at this age, says Virbhadra. When asked why he doesnt feel the need to retire and take rest, Virbhadra says the thought comes to his mind more than often but when its time to struggle I find myself once again at the front of my pack. Your body gets tired only when your soul feel tired, he says philosophically. Addressing the audience, he says speakers before him had addressed concerns and repeating it would not be wise. I wont repeat things, you people are wise and know what to do, he says, concluding his short speech, and wraps up the days campaign. Its 6 pm and he is headed to Palampur for a night stay, preparing to be in Mandi the next day, for yet another day of campaigning. For complete coverage of Lok Sabha Elections 2019, click here SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Ex-PM Rajiv Gandhi used INS Viraat for a holiday: PM Modi PM Modi said Congress namdaar does not spare an opportunity to abuse me and is shouting at me that the military is not anyones personal property. But it was his father and the family who used INS Viraat like a personal taxi. The incident relates to the period when Rajiv Gandhi was the prime minister and had gone on holidays. At that time, INS Virat was deployed to secure borders but at that time, INS Viraat was sent to fetch Gandhi family. It stopped for 10 days. Rajiv Gandhis in-laws were also present. Isnt it a breach of national security that foreign nationals were allowed to board the ship A military chopper was also placed at their disposal, PM Modi said at Ramlila Maidan The Congress has suddenly started talking about justice: PM Narendra Modi The Congress has suddenly started talking about justice nowadays. The Congress has to tell who will account for the injustice committed in the 1984 Sikh riots? The Congress will have to tell the chief Minister what Justice is the allegation of being associated with the Sikh riots: PM Narendra Modi The nation is looking at the 4th generation of naamdar family of Congress : PM Modi The nation is looking at the 4th generation of naamdar family of Congress. But this dynastic mindset has not been restricted to just one family. All those who have been close to this family have carried forward the flag of dynasty, PM Modi in Delhis Ramlila Maidan. Middle class is given help for their houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: PM Modi PM Narendra Modi in Delhi: Middle class is given help for their houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Respecting the honesty of the middle class we have kept the annual income upto 5 Lakh out of the taxable income PM Modi said, according to news agency ANI. PM Narendra Modi in Delhi: Middle class is given help for their houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Respecting the honesty of the middle class we have kept the annual income upto 5 Lakh out of the taxable income. https://t.co/ulzEiMr2PR ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 Bond between Delhi and BJP is strong: PM Modi in Delhis Ramlila Maidan I am fortunate that you provided me the opportunity to serve you. Before I give you an account of my work, I would like to extend my gratitude to every person in Delhi, PM Modi said, according to news agency ANI. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra holds roadshow in North East Delhi in support of Sheila Dikshit Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra held a roadshow Wednesday afternoon in support of Sheila Dikshit, her party candidate from North East Delhi constituency drawing a huge crowd. Read on | Lok Sabha elections 2019: Priyanka holds roadshow in North East Delhi in support of Sheila Dikshit Your Mann Ki Baat is our command: Rahul Gandhi Rahul Gandhi requests the crowd to give Congress a huge margin in MP, ends rally in Bhind. Congress will obey whatever Indias farmers will demand: Rahul Gandhi Rahul Gandhi attacks PM Modi, says he let Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi flee. He says why is a farmer in Mandsaur killed for being unable to repay his loans, while Anil Ambani roams freely in the streets of the capital. Congress is tormenting me, I turn to you for help, PM Modi asks crowd to spread the truth regarding Congress. PM Modi asks Haryana to vote in numbers, ends Kurukshetra public rally. PM Modi wants to make India a sporting superpower, says, Haryanas daughters will lead the way. PM applauds Haryanas daughters, says avenues for women have opened up in sports, Army and Air Force. Congress has showered me with a lot of love, asked the identity of my father and grandparents, PM Modi blasts at Congress in Kurukshetra. The Prime Minister advises the public to steer clear of Congress dictionary of love, says it will corrupt future generations. Congress electoral language is tainting the minds of the children and the youth, PM Modi on Congress barbs against him. PM Narendra Modi blasts out at Congress and says they have no respect for the position of the Prime Minister. They compared me to Mussolini and Hitler, called me mentally disabled. PM Modi takes a dig at Chattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel Congress definition of love is faulty, says PM Modi PM Modi hits out at Mani Shankar Aiyar, Jairam Ramesh, Shaktisinh Gohil and Sonia Gandhi for their barbs on PM Modi. PM declares 50 lakh loan for traders without guarantee, pension for MSME traders and farmers PM Narendra Modi to set up a National Council for Traders Our rivers are making Pakistans lands fertile, Ill bring back every drop of water to our nations farmers, says PM Modi. PM Modi speaks on Indus River treaty and blames Congress for not abrogating the river water sharing treaty. Congress planted the lie of Hindu terror in the aftermath of Samjhauta blasts, but their plot failed, says PM Modi PM claims that Congress has tainted our age-old culture and paved way for militancy to foster at a rally in Kurukshetra, Haryana Congress prioritises vote bank, insults Ramayana and Mahabharata, says PM Modi PM Modi takes a dig at Bengal CM, says Congress allies with people who love Pakistan and jail people for chanting Jai Shri Ram. PM Modi: Coming to Haryana feels like homecoming PM Narendra Modi claims that the Centre has solved the problems of Haryana in every sector. PM Modi to address public rally in Kurukshetra shortly Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar shares dais with the PM, claims BJP will win Karnal, Ambala and Kurukshetra constituencies by a large margin. I just mentioned a fact, says PM Modi on his Rajiv Gandhi comment I just mentioned a fact about Rajiv Gandhi... When the Congress president abuses the serving PM, his family and his poverty, then the Congress ecosystem has no qualms clapping. But when I mention an established fact about his father, then all these people lose their cool.... I challenge the Congress and its ecosystem to fight an election in Rajiv Gandhis name, PM Modi said in an interview to Navbharat Times, according to the BJPs Twitter handle. Clean chit on Bofors is a misconception, says Union Minister Prakash Javadekar Union Minister says last word on Bofors not out yet, slams former PM Rajiv Gandhi on 1984 anti-Sikh riots, and Lankan civil war. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar addresses the media, attacks former PM Rajiv Gandhi Congress stands for loot and lies, we have a right to question Rajiv Gandhi since he was a former PM. They are out on bail, theyll be soon in jail, says Union Minister for HRD Prakash Javadekar. Priyanka Gandhi is wasting her time, says Arvind Kejriwal AAP convenor and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal says, She (Priyanka Gandhi) is wasting her time,why doesnt she campaign in Rajasthan & MP? Shes doing rallies in UP against SP-BSP,shes doing rallies in Delhi against AAP. Both the brother & the sister arent going to those places where theres direct fight with BJP: ANI Congress rewarding those involved in 1984 Sikh riots: PM Modi On the one hand, we are working sincerely for the welfare of farmers but the Congress is deceiving farmers in the name of loan waiver as can be seen in Rajasthan, MP: PM Modi. Adds, Sikhs were massacred in 1984 at the behest of Congress and they didnt get justice all these years. But we ensured that hose involved in riots are being punished now and the process has started. But the Congress is rewarding those involved in those riots, someone about whom questions were raised in these riots has been made the chief minister of MP, says Modi. Will jail those who ignored farmers in the next five years: PM Modi PM Modi says that Congress is not bothered either about the soldiers or the farmers. This chowkidaar has taken the person who looted farmers to court. He is making rounds of ED &court to take bail. He used to think he is Shahenshah, now is nervous. Ive already taken him to jail door.Give blessings & Ill put him in jail within next 5 yrs, says PM Modi. He adds, we will double the income of the farmers by 2022. After the elections results, farmers will get money in their accounts thrice every year. PM Modi says his govt implemented OROP PM Modi says his government has implemented One Rank, One Pension scheme. He adds, it is because of Congress lies, the national war memorial could not be erected even after 70 years. But what they didnt do, we have done it. We also erected a memorial for the police force. Cong will take away special powers to armed forces: PM Modi Congress manifesto speaks of repealing the special powers given to the armed forces in J-K if it forms government after elections. It means Congress is talking about giving free run to those who throw stones and terrorists: Modi Congress didnt have a clear policy on getting Masood Azhar declared global terrorist: Modi Masood Azhar has been declared global terrorist, Pakistan is now forced to act against him, says Modi. He adds, Congress could not do it even after 5-6 years of trying to do it because they didnt have a clear policy on it. PM Modi attacks Congress on defence policy PM Modi says, Can any country become a world leader without strengthening its defence policy? Has Congress or any other party spoken about this in any of their rallies? They wont tell because their past is such that they cannot speak on nations defence. Before 2014, there were terror attacks but the weak Congress govt used to only give statements. He adds, now there is a strong government who attack terrorists in their lair. First we attacked them on land and then there were air strikes. PM Narendra Modi starts his speech at Fatehabad PM Narendra Modi begins his speech. He says, five phases of polling is over and the picture is absolutely clear now. Whether it is Congress or its mahamilavati allies, everyone has given up. Their aim to create a government in Delhi is demolished, says Modi. PM Modi reaches Fatehabad, to address rally shortly PM Modi has reached Fatehabad in Haryana where he will be addressing an election rally shortly. This is the first of three rallies to be held today. He is sharing dais with Akali Dal Chief Sukhbir Singh Badal Modi ji, your time is up: Rahul Gandhi tweets Rahul Gandhi tweets about NYAY scheme, tells PM Modi his time is up and time for change has come. Across India, its not just young people who are coming out in large numbers to vote for NYAY; older more experienced voters too have understood how powerful the idea is. Modi Ji, your time is up. The time for change has come. #AbHogaNYAY pic.twitter.com/SZit7MEl5p Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 8, 2019 AAP poses questions for BJP ahead of PMs Delhi rally PM Modi will address an election rally at Ramlila Maidan in New Delhi on Wednesday. A day earlier, AAP hit out on Tuesday at the BJP for going back on their promise of granting full statehood to Delhi. A day after Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said at a public rally that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is drenched in blood from head to feet, alluding to the 2002 Gujarat riots, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in Bengal lashed out at her, alleging that the blood stains are in fact on the hands of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader. In the past few years, there was not a single communal riot in any BJP-ruled state in the country. But there were several communal clashes in West Bengal in the past few years and the chief minister has conveniently forgotten them. The blood is actually on her hands and she is the real rioter, said BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha. Sinha pointed out that over the past few years communal clashes took place in Bengal in areas such as Dhulagarh, Basirhat and Asansol among others. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh said that the stronger the BJP got in Bengal, the more Banerjee was targeting Narendra Modi personally. One has to remember that the Gujarat riots were an after-effect of Godhra. She cannot reap the political benefits of what happened 17 years ago, said Ghosh, referring to the burning of a bogey in a train in Godhra railway platform, in which 59 kar-sevaks (volunteers) lost their lives. Also Read | At poll rally, Mamata Banerjee explains why Bengal skipped PM Modi meet The Bengal chief minister and the Prime Minister have been locked in an ongoing battle of words this election campaign season. While Banerjee has called Modi a liar, Ravana and Expiry Babu (signalling his term as PM has expired), Modi has coined a name Speed Breaker Didi for Mamata, meaning her puts obstacles on the path of development that Modi has envisaged for West Bengal. On Monday, while addressing a public rally in Bishnupur in Bankura district, about 130 km from Kolkata, the Bengal chief minister shot back at earlier comments by Modi that Bengal under her was known for Trinamool Tolabazi Tax. If I am a tolabaaz (extortionist) what are you? From head to toe you are drenched in the blood of people. Only riots, riots and riots, she said. When Modi comes to Bengal and alleges tolabazi, I feel like giving him a slap of democracy, said Banerjee on Tuesday at a public rally, raising her right hand in a motion of slapping. Both, the prime minister and Shah have criticised Banerjee alleging her party leaders indulge in extortion. At a press conference, BJP vice president Baijayant Jay Panda and its media head Anil Baluni claimed that the Modi wave will help the saffron party gain many seats from Odisha and West Bengal. Panda said the opposition, which is in panic mode, has been abusing Modi, referring to Banerjees remarks that Modi should get a tight slap of democracy to attack the opposition. Her desperation shows how much the ground has shifted in the state, Panda said. Also Read | Crossed all limits, says Sushma to Mamatas slap of democracy remark With a rally to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, scheduled at Ramlila Maidan on Wednesday afternoon, and a Congress road show in North East Delhi around the same time, the Delhi Traffic Police has alerted commuters about possible jams on roads in central and east Delhi during this period. The Prime Ministers rally is expected to affect traffic in central Delhi regions, such as Delhi Gate, ITO, Barakhamba and KG Marg. The Congress road show, meanwhile, will be attended by Priyanka Gandhi and is scheduled to begin from Brahmpuri and end at Yamuna Vihar after passing through Gonda Chowk and the DTC Depot, among others. The traffic police said that while there have been no restrictions on the movement of vehicles, jams could be expected in the afternoon. Motorists could do well to avoid these parts of the city from 3pm to 9pm if they are not part of the political action or do not have work there, a traffic police officer said. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra held a roadshow Wednesday afternoon in support of Sheila Dikshit, her party candidate from North East Delhi constituency drawing a huge crowd. Perched atop a minibus that started from Seelampur, a minority dominated area, Priyanka Gandhi and Dikshit waved at the ebullient hordes of supporters who were raising slogans Desh me aandhi Priyanka Gandhi. The Congress banners adorned the road. People jostled with each other to catch a glimpse of Priyanka Gandhi. Some were also showering rose petals on her as the minibus passed by. Sanitation is the main issue here. Manoj Tiwari (the BJP MP who is seeking a reelection from the seat) was never seen here. (Chief Minister) Arvind Kejriwal cannot run the government, said Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Seelampur. Priyanka Gandhi will also hold another roadshow in South Delhi later in the evening. PTI GVS PR KJ KJ KJ Whats in a name, Shakespeare had asked. Its all in the name, say political parties and candidates in the fray for Lok Sabha elections 2019. In fact, your name may even swing the fortunes of contestants. Thats probably why in West Delhi, Parvesh is facing off with Pravesh, Balbir Singh Jakhar is taking on Balbir Singh and Mahabal Mishra has a M Mishra to contend with. Each of the candidates fielded by the Aam Aadmi Party, the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party the three major national parties in the segment has an independent namesake fighting against them. As a result, the task of identifying the candidate residents actually want to vote for will mainly depend on their familiarity with the party symbols. Parvesh Verma, the BJP candidate and sitting MP from West Delhi, is up against Pravesh Sharma, an independent . Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) Balbir Singh Jakhar has a Balbir Singh, independent, as a rival. Congress candidate Mahabal Mishra, a former MP from West Delhi, has an independent rival Manoj Mishra, who is going by M Mishra. BJPs Verma said these might be just coincidences, but pitting candidates of the same name is an old trick from the book of politics to confuse voters; but nowadays, it rarely works. Everyone checks symbol before voting; and with the advancement of technology, voters know almost everything about their candidate of choice. Delhi voters dont fall for these silly attempts by the opposition to confuse them, Verma said. Vermas namesake, Pravesh Sharma, is a 36-year-old lawyer, who says he wants to do something for the people of the country. Unlike Parvesh Verma, Pravesh says he does not have a political legacy. Parvesh Verma is the son of former Delhi chief minister and popular Jat leader Sahib Singh Verma. I am a lawyer; a common man wanting to do something for society, the independent said. Despite being a first-timer, AAPs Jakhar has many namesakes in the fray. During the filing of nominations, five people including the 47-year-old AAP candidate who is a lawyer in the Dwarka court with the same name filed nominations. Of the four, only one persons papers were found in order. Balbir Singh, 56, who is contesting as an independent, said, This is my name. Does that mean I cannot fight elections just because another candidate from a recognised party has the same name? Singh, who is fighting elections for the first time, identifies himself as a social worker. He said people should not underestimate new politicians. The AAP was also new once. People want someone to change things, he said. AAPs Jakhar, however, laughed it off and said the rising number of Balbir Singhs was only indicative of the rising popularity of his party and the threat that he is posing to his opponents. This is a compliment, he said. M Mishra, on the other hand, said there was nothing intentional in him crunching his first name to a single letter. Mishra, also a lawyer, reiterated that his candidature is not backed by any political party. I have fought several elections in residents welfare associations etc, but never on such as large scale. I am a lawyer and my campaigns are also restricted to people I know. How do the parties think a person like me can damage their votes? Unless they know that they have not done much work in the past, he said. In the Chandni Chowk constituency, AAP candidate Pankaj Gupta, a software professional, is pitted against another Pankaj Gupta, a resident of Tri Nagar, who is privately employed, according to his affidavit. When HT contacted the namesake, he refused to speak on the issue. While mainstream candidates in the national capital say they are not threatened by having namesakes in the fray, in smaller towns and villages, political parties use this tactic to split votes and candidates are always wary of such rivals. In the 2006 assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, for instance, Thol Thirumavalavan from the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) party lost from Kattumannarkoil constituency by a margin of just 87 votes. Curiously, an independent candidate by the name of T Thirumavalavan managed to get 289 votes. Congress president Rahul Gandhi was pitted against two namesakes Rahul Gandhi KE and Raghul Gandhi K in Wayanad constituency in Kerala, which went to polls on April 23. Although its not illegal, the election commission has been trying to keep a tab on such contestants to ensure that the nomination is not filed on the basis of ill intentions. Senior officials from the Delhi chief electoral officers office said the onus of exposing fake candidature lay with the candidates of the recognised political parties. Not everyone who has the same name as candidates of recognised parties is contesting with an ill intention. This is a democracy and some common names are likely to feature in the list. That is the reason why we scrutinise the affidavits thoroughly to reject fake contestants, an official from the Delhi CEOs office said. Sanjay Kumar, from the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS), said although candidates cannot be blamed for having same or similar names, but if they are able to swing even a few votes away from the candidate of a recognised party, it makes a difference. Even if these independent candidates are able to garner a few dozen votes, it is essentially a loss for the candidate from a major party. Such things come into play when the finish is close, Kumar said. Former Delhi Congress president and partys election campaign in-charge Subhash Chopra said these namesakes seldom cause any damage. He said Delhi voters check the symbol before pressing the button. The trend is that people usually vote for the PM instead of the MP. They recognise their candidate from the party symbol, so the issue of these namesakes is rarely an issue at all, Chopra said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Some years ago, a senior Congress general secretary narrated to me a story about Narayan Rane that had me in splits. He had been seeking an appointment with then party president Sonia Gandhi for weeks and when he finally got a call at eight in the morning he had to rush to catch a flight from Mumbai to New Delhi to make it on time. When he arrived at 10, Janpath he was startled to see Rane waiting in the outer room of the three-layered process to get to Sonia Gandhi the reception, the lounge and then Sonias office. Rane was a minister, so he asked Sonias staff to let him ahead. Do you want to meet Madam or not? he was asked sternly by Sonias secretary. She hasnt given him an appointment as yet. Since he was almost Sonias last appointment for the day and a last-minute replacement for a cancellation, he hastened to keep his tryst with his party president. It took him an hour 30 minutes in the waiting room and 30 minutes in her office. As he began to leave, he was startled to see Rane still waiting at the reception the last appointment had been called in and he wondered how long the minister would have to wait. That evening at the Maharashtra Sadan, he was bemused to see Rane surrounded by Marathi journalists recounting to them the wonderful meeting he had had with Sonia Gandhi. I knew she had not met him but who would contradict him? Madam would never see the Marathi channels and those who would, would never have the guts to cross-check with her or her office. Rane boasted about such frequent meetings with Sonia Gandhi in those years I remember Vilasrao Deshmukh being worried about his rivals ready access to 10, Janpath when as a chief minister he had to wait weeks and months for his own appointment to come through. Obviously, Rane wanted to press Sonia Gandhi into making him chief minister (CM) and thought he that could bully the Congress leadership the way he had done Bal Thackeray when he was in the Shiv Sena. I have it from an insider in Matoshree that for months before he became CM in January 1999, Rane would drop by Thackerays residence every evening to ask when he was being made chief minister. Thackeray, sitting by his upstairs window, would cringe every time he saw Rane arriving and ultimately could not stand the badgering any longer. He gave in. I am still surprised that Rane did not see how his predecessor Manohar Joshi got back at him. Some months after he became CM, BJP general secretary Pramod Mahajan persuaded Thackeray to advance the Maharashtra Assembly elections to take advantage of the split in the Congress. No one expected the Congress to emerge as the single largest party at that election but before it formed a government in alliance with the NCP, Rane desperately tried to put his own numbers together. But every time Rane broke a couple of MLAs from the other parties to make up his shortfall, Joshi managed to make another couple of legislators disappear overnight. Fed up, the governor invited the Congress and NCP to form the government. In 2005, with the Shiv Sena-BJP having lost not once but twice in a row, the Congress was Ranes only alternative. But I am amazed that he did not see how he was being taken for a ride by Congress veterans who promised him that they would replace then CM Vilasrao Deshmukh with him. Now, the Congress is a party that never rewards its parvenus beyond a point. Had Rane bothered to study the party, he would have known the Congress has never had anyone but a blue-blooded Congressman as CM. Sharad Pawar and Digambar Kamat (of Goa) are seen as exceptions but even they were both Congressmen before one split the party and the other joined the BJP to return to the Congress a few years later. Rane pitting himself against Ashok Chavan a few years later was once again hoping for the impossible for the same reason. So if he felt cheated by Congress leaders who promised him the moon, it was, well, just the way the Congress works. Rane now has written his memoirs (No Holds Barred) to tell it like it is. But Congressmen are unlikely to be surprised or troubled by how their party operates. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Detailed plot outlines for the upcoming final two episodes of HBOs Game of Thrones have reportedly been leaked on Reddit. The post also contained an outline of episode four, and was shared a week before it was first aired. What adds to the posts credibility is that it nailed specific plot details from the fourth episode, such as (SPOILER ALERT) Missandeis beheading and the death of Rhaegal at the hands of Euron Greyjoy. The posts have been shared on Game of Thrones subreddits such as A Song of Ice and Fire, and Free Folk, and reveal everything from notable deaths, major plot twists, and the possible champion of the entire ordeal. Game of Thrones final season has been plagued by multiple leaks. The first episode was released early on DirectTV, episode two was released early on Amazon Prime Video in Germany and short clips from the fourth episode were also leaked on social media before the episode was screened. WATCH: Game of Thrones stars reveal their favorite death scene The production went to great lengths to protect the plot from being leaked; they shot in closed environments, had stringent anti-piracy methods on set and, like Marvel, shot multiple versions of important scenes. I think theyre filming a bunch of stuff and theyre not telling us, actor Emilia Clarke told the Hollywood Reporter previously. Theres lots of different endings that could happen; I think were doing all of them and we arent being told which is actually whats going to happen. This image released by HBO shows Nathalie Emmanuel, Emilia Clarke, Conleth Hill in a scene from Game of Thrones. (AP) Sophie Turner said that a drone killer had been deployed on set. If a drone flies above sets, theres a thing that can kill the drones, which is really cool. It creates a field around it and the drones just drop. Its very X-Men, she said at an event. Scripts for the final season reportedly vanish after scenes have been shot. Said Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Theyre very very strict. Its reached a crazy level this year. We actually get the scripts, and then when weve shot the scene and we only have it digitally and then when youve done the scene, it just vanishes. Its like Mission: Impossible. This will self-destruct. Also read: Game of Thrones fans spot Starbucks cup in episode 4, Was it too dark to notice? asks Twitter Keeping all this in mind, it begs the question how the details were even accessed. While some suggest that this is based on first hand set reports, others seem to think someone with limited access to filming locations has been leaking the details. Game of Thrones will return for its penultimate episode on Monday, with the series finale airing on May 20. Follow @htshowbiz for more Cannes and controversy are so tightly conjoined that they may as well be Siamese twins. And controversies began long ago on the French Riviera, the idyllic south of France, which hosts the 12-day festival every May. Often referred to as the queen of all, Cannes has been seeing excitement of this kind both on and off the screen. This year as well, we have a controversy. The festival is going ahead with its decision to award an honorary Palm dOr to Alain Delon, the French actor who has been a darling of the masses for decades. He has also been severely criticised for his comments on slapping women, for opposing adoption of children by same-sex parents and his support for the far Right in France. The founder of Women and Hollywood, Melissa Silverstein, said: Am extremely disappointed that Cannes would honour someone who held such abhorrent values. In a tweet, she said Delon has publicly admitted to slapping women. He has aligned himself with the racist and anti-Semitic National Front. He has claimed that being gay is against nature. The Cannes Film Festival has committed itself to diversity and inclusion. By honouring Mr Delon, Cannes is honouring these abhorrent values. Also read: Ranveer Singh reacts to Deepika Padukones Camp Barbie look at Met Gala 2019, calls her smashing But the festival defended its action by quipping that it was giving the award to Delon because he was a legendary actor, and he had been an integral part of Cannes history. Cannes refused to be drawn into the charges against him. Cannes Film Festival defended its decision, calling Delon a legendary actor and an integral part of Cannes history. (AFP) The actor has always been accused of being sexist and bigoted, but violence against women is something new we are hearing about him. As far as the other side of the coin goes, nobody can deny that Delon was a master artist. He has been part of 80-odd movies having worked with greats like Michelangelo Antonioni, Luchino Visconti, Jean-Pierre Melville and Jean-Luc Godard. And now here is the climax. Recently, Delon told Le Monde: I have one regret after 60 years in the business. There is one thing Ive missed out on that will always haunt me: I would have liked to have been directed by a woman before I die. Finally, could it be just an accident that Delon chose Mr Klein (1976) to be part of the Palm dOr celebration. Helmed by Joseph Losey, this film, with the actor producing and starring, tells the story of discrimination against Jews during World War II. Cannes never ceases to surprise and shock us. But these began many, many summers ago. In the festivals early years, when morals meant a mountainous lot, there were starlets dying for publicity and hoping to catch the eye of movie moguls. These gorgeous women stripped on the beach and headed for the arms of hunk-looking American actors, some of whom were thoroughly embarrassed - and their accompanying wives as well. But the starlets could not care less for they had got the shutterbugs clicking away furiously. And the photographs would make it to magazines. In more recent times with such publicity on the wane, Cannes courted other forms of controversy. From getting forbidden films smuggled in pen-drives buried inside harmless-looking cakes to getting a jury president who did not hide the fact how hostile he was to the then American administration, the festival had it all. Last year, Cannes decision to ban selfies on the red carpet and denying journalists the privilege of watching movies well before the others saw them proved highly controversial. Critics were peeved, and fans felt utterly disappointed that they were stopped from clicking pictures with their favourite stars on the red carpet. (Gautaman Bhaskaran has been covering the Cannes Film Festival close to three decades.) Follow @htshowbiz for more ott:10:ht-entertainment_listing-desktop An all-women team of 15 researchers and engineers will be part of a National Geographic expedition that will travel up the Ganga from the Bay of Bengal to its source in the Gangotri glacier to study the flow of plastics in the river system. The expedition will be undertaken by boat, road and rail over four months, of which two months will be in summer beginning at the end of May and two months after the monsoon. Every year, 9 million metric tonnes of plastic is dumped in the worlds water systems, which ends up in the oceans. In India, plastic contributes nearly 60% of the waste reaching the oceans, according to the National Centre for Coastal Research. Most of it comes from fishing nets and the polythene and plastics discarded on land near the mainland. Near Andaman and Nicobar islands, we found plastic transported by ocean currents even around uninhabited islands. The highest density of plastics is found along the coastlines, which increases during floods, suggesting an important role of the rivers, said Dr S Srinivasalu, director, Institute of Ocean Management, Anna University, Chennai. Last year, on World Environment Day on June 5, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced that all single-use plastics will be banned in India by 2022. The India-backed resolution on addressing the problem of single-use plastics was adopted by the fourth UN Environment Assembly in March 2019. The Ganga was chosen for the expedition as it is one of the worlds iconic waterways and supports an estimated 600 million people. Additionally, India has positioned itself as a leader in tackling plastic pollution and National Geographic wants to provide them with the tools to help continue those efforts, said Heather Koldewey, scientific co-lead of the expedition and senior technical advisor at Zoological Society of London. Alongwith her, Jenna Jambeck, National Geographic Fellow and professor at University of Georgia would be leading the expedition. The Dehradun-based Wildlife Institute of India is the India partner for the expedition. It will help better understand and document how plastic waste travels from source to sea and to fill critical knowledge gaps around plastic flow, load and composition, said Koldewey. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A jetliner flown by a subsidiary of Air France that made an emergency landing in Iran stayed on the ground for several hours Wednesday before flying to Dubai, according to the airline. The Airbus A340 flown by the low-cost carrier Joon was heading from Paris to Mumbai when it landed in the central Iran city of Isfahan. Joon said in a statement that the plane, operating as flight AF218, landed out of precaution over a malfunctioning ventilation circuit. Irans state-run IRNA news agency said local authorities provided services to passengers. It said all were in good health. Air France said the plane was checked by local maintenance teams and then departed for Al Maktoun International Airport in Dubai, where it was expected to arrive early Thursday. Air France said it would re-route passengers to Mumbai on other airlines as soon as possible. In December, a Norwegian Air Boeing 737 Max made an emergency landing in Iran while flying from Dubai to Oslo. Passengers were able to leave the following day, but Norwegians U.S.-made jet stayed in Iran for several weeks awaiting repairs. The airline cited paperwork involved in shipping aircraft parts to Iran because of U.S. sanctions against Tehrans nuclear program. In a widening confrontation between the Trump administration and congressional Democrats, the White House on Tuesday prohibited a former counsel from turning over documents to a House panel, the day after the treasury department refused to hand over the presidents income tax records. The White House told the House judiciary committee the documents it had sought from the former counsel Don Mcgahn were provided to him in connection with cooperation with the special counsels investigation and with clear understanding that the records remain subject to the control of the White House (and) they implicate significant executive branch confidentiality interests and executive privilege. The panel should redirect its request for these records to the White House for them, Counsel Pat Cipollone wrote to Jerrold Nadler, chairman of the House judiciary committee. This was another block on request for witnesses and records made by Democrats pertaining to their investigations being conducted by multiple committees of the House of Representatives, including a sweeping probe of alleged corruption, abuse of power and obstruction of justice. On Monday, US treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin refused to hand over Donald Trumps personal income tax and told the House ways and means committee its request for them did not serve a legitimate legislative purpose and releasing them could be a violation of privacy. Also on Monday, attorney general William Barr refused to release an un-redacted version of special counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian meddling. The House judiciary committee has scheduled a vote on Wednesday to forward a contempt of Congress petition against him to the full House. The president, his three adult children and his businesses have filed lawsuits to prevent their banks and long-time accountant from releasing financial records subpoenaed by congressional committees in connection with their investigations. President Trump has argued that he fully cooperated with Muellers probe, allowed officials to give testimony and handed over records and now that its investigations found no evidence he or any member of his campaign conspired with Russian meddling it was time to move on. Democrats, however, are drilling down on obstruction of justice. Mueller had cited ten episodes of potential obstruction of justice but did not find enough evidence to establish the offence. They have questioned Barrs clean-chit on this issue. More than 450 former federal prosecutors said in a joint letter on Monday that if Trump was not the president, he could have been charged with obstruction of justice based on Muellers findings. A justice department guideline protects a sitting president from prosecution. Zimbabwean vice president Constantino Chiwenga was likely to fly out of India on a chartered plane after his treatment on Wednesday evening, according to two officials familiar with the matter. An external affairs ministry team received Chiwenga, 62, when he arrived in India on May 1 along with 10 officials, one of the officials said. Security officials were asked to keep Chiwengas arrival secret since he was not in India for official work. Chiwenga was in India in February also for treatment. Chiwenga was admitted to Gurugrams Medanta Hospital upon his arrival. It was a follow-up visit this time as he was admitted with us earlier also about 6 weeks back. He had been suffering from a severe obstruction of the food pipe because of which he was not able to have anything, not even liquids. He was being treated back in his country but it had not helped much, said Medanta Institute of Digestive and Hepatobiliary Sciences chairman, Dr Randhir Sud, who treated Chiwenga. He is much better now; stable and eating on his own. We will keep him for 2-3 more days before deciding on the discharge. A Gulfstream 450 jet was hired from a company in Angola to fly Chiwenga to India. It is one of the best chartered jets in the world and can fly up to 16 hours at a stretch. The aircraft was parked at the Delhi airport till May 4 but left that day. It is expected to arrive again on Tuesday night to take the VIP back [Chiwenga] on Wednesday evening, said a Delhi airport official requesting anonymity. In February, News agency Reuters reported Chiwengas health was closely followed in Zimbabwe. It said Chiwenga, who is widely seen as the power behind President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is the front-runner to succeed him. Chiwenga led the coup to remove Robert Mugabe from power in 2017. A Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) official said a foreign jet requires a lot of permissions from aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation to fly to India. Overflying permissions from various countries en route are also required. For that, a trip support company is hired. Since it is a personal trip on a private jet, a lot of people are involved to get the permissions and they were told not to talk much about the people travelling on the aircraft. The BCAS issues passes for external affairs ministry staff on protocol duty and also to pilots and support staff of a jet flying to India. An official of the Central Industrial Security Force, which is responsible for security at the airport, also confirmed the visit but said they have not been told about the departure yet. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Sharpshooters wore camo and hefted state-of-the-art rifles with longer, flatter trajectory The green-clad soldiers waited patiently in the shadows of the Pennsylvania woods. Their uniforms blended into the summer foliage, and the deep shade prevented the bright sun from reflecting on the barrels of their deadly rifles. It was a warm day in early July 1863. As the marksmen positioned just south of the town of Gettysburg scanned their surroundings for signs of Confederate forces, they drained their canteens and waited for the enemy to appear. The soldiers were members of Berdans Sharpshooters, an elite infantry unit equipped with fine breechloading percussion riflesthe Sharps Model 1859. The Rebels learned soon enough to fear this enemy. At the start of the conflict, Hiram Berdan, a 36-year-old New Yorker and nationally known marksman, believed his greatest contribution to the war effort would be the formation of a sharpshooting regiment made up of the best riflemen in the Northern states. After receiving formal approval from military authorities, Berdan opened regional competitions to decide who could join his ranks. Colonel Hiram Berdan, a prewar marksmanship champion, decided in 1861 to recruit the best riflemen in the Northern states to create a sharpshooting regiment. (Library of Congress) In the summer of 1861, Berdans recruiters scoured the Northern states for qualified candidates. At the July 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, in fact, the 2nd Regiment had representatives from Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. Men were given plenty of incentives to join the unit. Berdan offered enlistment bonuses and even compensation for those shooters who brought their personal target rifles. The distinctive uniforms they would wear was another advantage: dark green caps, trousers, and coats, essential in helping them blend in with the scenery while operating among trees and brush. Acceptance, however, was hardly guaranteed. To qualify as a sharpshooter, all prospects had to place 10 consecutive shots inside a 10-inch circle (roughly the size of a dinner plate) from 200 yards at rest (or 100 yards off hand) without the aid of a telescopic sight. Ultimately, some 2,000 marksmen qualified. As early as August 1861, they were assembled into what became the 1st and 2nd United States Sharpshooters. At first, Berdan wasnt certain what weapon he wanted his men to carry. He had initially placed an order with Brig. Gen. James W. Ripley, head of the U.S. Army Ordnance Department, for 750 Springfield rifles, which Berdan felt would serve in an interim capacity until a first-class alternative weapon became available. Then, while the sharpshooters were in training at Fort Corcoran in Washington, D.C., a former gold miner and hunter named Truman Head joined their ranks. Given his West Coast background, the men quickly dubbed the new recruit California Joe. There is a new man here in my company that is all attention, one sharpshooter wrote in his diary. He is a craggy old monument from California and can shoot better than many as he was a bear hunter. He favorsan old Sharps and has told all that will hear that he will obtain a newer edition to fight rebels shortly. The M-1859 Sharps rifle had several advantages: a breechloading design, accuracy, reliability, and a rapid rate of fire. (Heritage Auctions) An outstanding marksman, Joe was disgusted with the old, cast-off guns that many of his fellow sharpshooters had been issuedmostly worn-out Halls rifles and smoothbore muskets. True to his word, he eventually bought the M-1859 Sharps. Berdan got to fire the rifle, and immediately ordered a thousand for his men. Because of a production backlog at the Sharps factory, though, he also arranged for a consignment of M-1855 Colt revolving rifles. The mento put it mildlyhated the Colt, finding it inaccurate, unreliable, and unsafe in the event of a chain fire (the accidental simultaneous discharge of all rounds in the weapons cylinder). After constant demands for a replacement, the Army replaced the detested revolving rifles for the M-1859 Sharps. In May 1862, the men finally had their new guns and, by June, a shipment of 200,000 cartridges. Three features made the M-1859 Sharps such a fine instrument: loading design, action, and ammunition. The brainchild of Connecticut gunsmith Christian Sharps, his latest model was an outgrowth of his original 1848 concept for a percussion lock breechloader. At a time when most firearms loaded through the muzzleutilizing an awkward combination of ball, powder charge, and ramroda gun that loaded from the breech offered numerous advantages, especially for the sharpshooter. As true during the Civil War as it is today, sharpshooters depended on coverage and concealment. Standing a rifle on its butt and fumbling with powder, ball, and ramrod could betray ones location to the enemy. Loading from the muzzle was an even more difficult procedure to perform from a prone position. The breechloading design, on the other hand, enabled shooters to reload effortlessly regardless of how they were situated. They could load the single-shot Sharps while standing, kneeling, or prone, sending up to 10 well-aimed rounds downrange every minutenearly triple a muzzleloaders rate of fire. The falling-breechblock action was another valuable element of the guns design that enabled the soldiers to reload quickly. A lever attached just forward of the trigger guard internally raised and lowered a rectangular chunk of metal known as a breechblock. When closed, this piece sealed the rifles chamber and, upon firing, effectively transferred the recoil to the weapons stock. The Sharps did not make use of a metal cartridge with a built-in primer, but it did use a unique cartridge that consisted of a bullet attached to a powder charge wrapped in paper or thin linen, and the consolidated round saved time during loading. The powerful .52-caliber, roughly one-ounce Sharps projectile left the muzzle at a scorching 1,200 feet per second, compared to the muzzle-loading Pattern 1853 Enfields 900 feet per second. The result was a flatter long-range flight trajectory along with a bit of surprise. As one Confederate soldier observed of the rifles supersonic round, the [Sharps] bullet got to you before the report, but if it was a muzzleloader the report got to you before the ball. A double-set trigger system included a hair trigger that increased accuracy. The Sharps was, indeed, a firearm built for discerning and deadly shooters. Berdans men were soon able to test their breechloaders in battle. At Malvern Hill, Va., on July 1, 1862the final clash in the Seven Days Battlestheir pinpoint fire destroyed in only 10 minutes the 1st Richmond Howitzers of Colonel William Barksdales Brigade. We went in a battery and came out a wreck a Confederate gunner later wrote. [W]e came out with one gun, ten men and two horses, and without firing a shot. The sharpshooters figured prominently again at the Battle of Antietam on September 17, 1862. In the devastating fighting in and around the Cornfield, the 2nd had 13 officers killed and wounded, as well as 54 enlisted men killed, wounded, or missing. Volunteers for Berdan's unit had to undergo rigorous sharpshooting trials to prove their skills. In this image from Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper, Maj. Gen. George B. McClellan and other officers watch the testing. (Photo by Buyenlarge/Getty Images) One of those slain was 2nd U.S. Adjutant Lewis C. Parmelee, who took command of the regiment when Colonel Henry Post was wounded. When fired upon by Rebel troops after exiting the Cornfield, the 2nd returned fire and the Confederates started to break, leaving guns, knapsacks and everything that impeded their progress on the ground beside their dead and wounded comrades, writes Civil War historian Jim Woodrick, director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. According to Woodrick, Parmelee seized a flag from a wounded enemy color-bearer and attached it to his sword to rally his men. He had advanced only a few steps, however, before he was struck down by gunfire, reportedly hit at least five times. [W]e shot our rifles today fiercely, one sharpshooter wrote in his diary that day. I saw Parmelee fall. Parmelee was one of nine members of the regiment to be buried on the battlefield after the battle, though his family later had his remains reinterred elsewhere. The role Berdans men played in the Union victory at Gettysburg may well have been their most defining moment. During the critical fighting on July 2, the two regiments were part of Brig. Gen. J.H. Hobart Wards 2nd Brigade in the 1st Division of Maj. Gen. Dan Sickles 3rd Corps. Ward was responsible for the extreme left of the Army of the Potomacs defenses, and when Colonel John Bufords cavalry was dispatched about noon to Westminster, Md., to refit and reshoe their mounts, Ward sent out eight companies of the 2nd Regiment to the southwest of his position. Major Homer Stoughton, the 2nds commander, reported after the battle that he had been instructed by Berdan to place his men on Big Round Top, what he called Sugar Loaf Hill. He placed four companies straddling a crossroad whose trace today occupies Slyder Lane; one in a ravine at the base of the hill; and one on the brow of the hill, with videttes overlooking the ravine. Stoughton kept the two other companies in reserve, though they would be brought forward soon enough. According to Gettysburg licensed battlefield guide Gary Kross, writing in Blue & Gray magazine: The Sharpshooters usually deployed in no larger a group than cells, where four men were responsible for each other during combat.The videttes referred to by Stoughton on Big Round Top would have been comprised of a number of cells in strategic positions along the western slope of the hill. A group of 15 men from several companies that had moved forward enough on Big Round Top witnessed the early-afternoon arrival of infantry of Lt. Gen. James Longstreets First Corps on the southern end of the battlefield, as well as the arrival earlier of Confederate artillery. When two Rebel scouts were captured, Adjutant Seymour F. Norton was able to report back to his superiors the escalating Confederate presence. When Confederate artillery began moving into position on the southern end of Seminary Ridge, some of the batteries were placed immediately in front of members of Stoughtons skirmish line. A few sharpshooters crept through the woods and deployed behind a stone wall before unleashing a quick salvo on a North Carolina battery under Captain James Reilly. Sharpshooter Lewis Parmelee was killed near the Cornfield at Antietam. (Library of Congress) That seemingly minor disruption affected the preparations of Evander Laws Alabama Brigade ultimately headed for Little Round Top. Without informing his regimental commanders of his intent, Law detached about 200 men from five of his companies to seek out and confront the unseen force that had just fired on Reillys guns. The sharpshooters, however, had already pulled back up Big Round Top, and, according to Kross, the 200 detached Alabamians would miss the Confederates subsequent attack. The advance on the Union left by Maj. Gen. John Bell Hoods Division began about 4 p.m. Almost immediately, Stoughtons sharpshooters opened fire, followed quickly by Union artillery. Several Confederates later wrote of the devastation wreaked upon them by the Federal marksmen. We advanced through a field about half a mile before we reached thefoot of the mountain, wrote a member of the 5th Texas, our men tumbling out of ranks at every step, knocked over by the enemys sharpshooters. Private John C. West of the 4th Texas, Company E, recalled in a letter written to his young son shortly after the battle: When the command was given to charge[,] we moved forward as quickly as we could.Yankee sharpshooters were on the higher mountains, so as to have fairer shots at our officers. On we went yelling and whoopingminnie [sic] bullets and grape shot were as thick as hail, and we were compelled to get behind the rocks and trees to save ourselves. A soldier of the 4th Alabama recalled the chilling death of a comrade during the advance at the hands of a sharpshooter: Taylor Darwin, Orderly Sergeant of Company I, stopped, quivered, and sank to the earth dead, a ball having passed through his brain. By nightfall July 2, Federal forces had withstood the repeated attacks on Little Round Top and the Army of the Potomacs vulnerable left flank, setting the stage for its victory the following day. Stoughtons 2nd Sharpshooters regiment had disrupted the Confederates long enough to allow other Union units to fill what had been a glaring gap in the defenses along Little Round Top, most notably Colonel Strong Vincents 3rd Brigade in Maj. Gen. George Sykes 5th Corps and the 20th Maine Infantry under Colonel Joshua Chamberlain. According to Colonel Berdans after-action report, 450 of his marksmen were engaged during the battle, expending 14,400 rounds of ammunition and suffering fewer than 30 total casualties. Gettysburg was Berdans last time in the field with his elite unit. He was soon promoted to division command, only to resign his commission in early 1864. That December, the two regiments were merged into one force, but Berdans men never again had the sort of impact theyd had at Gettysburg, a prime example of what was possible when used in the role for which they had been created. Nevertheless, Berdans Sharpshooters hold a distinguished honor in our nations history. Although military units with a similar purpose had been in use by armies in Europe, and American armies had adopted the use of isolated marksmen, Berdans was the first organized unit to wear camouflage and wield breechloading rifles in combat. Furthermore, their exploits as mobile marksmenthe squirrel hunter of the war, according to one of their own officersset the stage for the eventual and critical military recognition of the scout-sniper in modern warfare. Doug Wicklund is a senior curator at the NRAs National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Va. Michael Williams is a freelance writer, and an NRA and Maryland State Police certified firearms instructor. _____ Tools of the Trade First designed by Christian Sharps in 1848, and slightly updated in 1863, the Model 159 Sharps rifle was rugged, accurate, and capable of firing 8-10 rounds per minute. The breechloading, single-shot rifle (converted post-Civil War to fire self-containing metallic cartridges) remained in production through the 1880s and became the preferred weapon of the Western Plains buffalo hunters (the 1874 Sharps, in several calibers, became renowned as Old Reliable. Specs: Manufacturer: Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Company, Hartford, Conn. Length: 47 inches (9 inches shorter than 1861 Springfield rifle-musket; Sharps carbine was 39 inches) Weight: 9.5 pounds (0.5 pounds heavier than 1861 Springfield rifle-musket) Caliber: .52 (1861 Springfield rifle-musket was .58-caliber) Ammunition: Paper (waxed linen)-wrapped cartridges (lead bullet & 50 grains black powder) Ignition: Percussion cap (or Sharps pelletsSharps patented similar system) Action: Lever-activated falling block (vertical sliding breechblock) Rate of Fire: 810 rounds per minute (vs. muzzle loader 1861 Springfield rifle-muskets 3 rpm) Muzzle Velocity: 1,200 feet per second (slightly supersonic vs. 1861 Springfield rifle-muskets 1,000 fps) Sights: Barrel-mounted, open ladder sight Effective Range: 500 yards (8001,000 yards with skilled marksmen) Bayonet: Standard triangular socket bayonet (none for carbine version) Government Cost: $40 ($1,142 in todays dollars) Union Army Purchased 186165: 9,141 (80,512 carbine versionsmeanwhile the U.S. government purchased 1 million Springfield rifle-muskets during that time). The $40 purchase price included for each weapon: one thong and one brush (for barrel cleaningthe Sharps had no ramrod); one wrench and screwdriver; one cartridge stick (as a form for hand-rolling paper-wrapped cartridges); one extra cone; and one extra primer spring. In addition, one ball-mold (for casting lead bullets) was provided for every five weapons. Jerry Morelock _____ A Tight Spot Berdans Sharpshooters rushed into an open field ahead of the main assault on Stonewall Jacksons troops at the Deep Cut during the Second Battle of Bull Run. Keeping up a steady fire, they managed to repel Confederate skirmishers, but provoked Jacksons men to fire back from the cover of a trace of an unfinished railroad and became pinned along a dry creek bed. George Albee of Company G, who was wounded during the action, returned to the spot after the war and placed a signboard on a tall cedar post to mark the location of his company during the attack. Although the pole has been replaced several times over the years since, a present sign occupies the same spot as the original at the Manassas National Battlefield Park.Melissa A. Winn An alternative newspaper for American GIs in Vietnam offered some raw glimpses into the conflict. From 1966 to 1972, Overseas Weekly was the GIs friend in Vietnam, as the New York Times put it, though the Pentagons top brass hated the popular and eccentric tabloid newspaper for covering the underbelly of the costly and controversial war. At the height of the conflict in Vietnam, the Pacific edition of OW had some 60,000 readers and a staff of highly talented reporters and photographers, including Art Greenspon, Don Hirst, and Brent Procter. Their intimate portraits of American GIs and Vietnamese civilians were published in We Shot the War: Overseas Weekly in Vietnam (Hoover Institution Press, 2018) from which these pages are adapted. Previous Next A weary American soldier steals a momentary break at Landing Zone Evans, an outpost in Cambodia that was under near-constant attack, on May 11, 1970. (Don Hirst) General William C. Westmoreland, the U.S. Armys chief of staff, reviews troops of the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry, 101st Airborne Division on July 16, 1970, during a visit to Firebase Veghel in central Vietnam. (Terry Reynolds) Radio operators of B Company receive, transmit, and decode messages about their units movements and maneuvers in and around Hue in March 1968. (Art Greenspon) Suspected Viet Cong guerrilla soldiers are blindfolded and taken prisoner by U.S. military police on December 11, 1966. (OW Staffer) A Vietnamese peasant is questioned by U.S. soldiers about ammunition found hidden in a haystack. (OW Staffer) Combat patrols of B Company wade through waist-deep water to cross a paddy field in South Vietnam in 1969. (OW Staffer) Second Lieutenant Timothy Ganahl shows a young Vietnamese orphan from Lai Khe how to fire a rifle, October 1, 1966. (OW Staffer) A Navy sailor aboard the USS Brinkley Bass peers across the Gulf of Tonkin on May 14, 1970. (Brent Procter) Wounded American soldiers lie on the back of an M42 Duster in Hue waiting to be medevaced to the battalion aid station. (Art Greenspon) This article appears in the Spring 2019 issue (Vol. 31, No. 3) of MHQThe Quarterly Journal of Military History with the headline: They Shot the War Half Moon Bay, CA (94019) Today Mostly cloudy skies this evening. A few showers developing late. Low near 50F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Mostly cloudy skies this evening. A few showers developing late. Low near 50F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Are you a current print subscriber to Columbia Gorge News? If so, you qualify for free access to all content on columbiagorgenews.com. Simply verify with your subscriber id to receive free access. Your subscriber id may be found on your bill or mailing label. Renovation 8 May 2019 JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, today announced the culmination of a multi-million dollar full scale renovation to JW Marriott Grosvenor House London. Directed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) and GA Design, the complete transformation of the hotel's guest rooms and public spaces incorporates a fresh take on present-day design while honoring the rich heritage of the property. The former home of the Duke of Gloucester, Grosvenor House has commanded a notable location on Park Lane since opening its doors in 1929. Originally designed by famed architects L. Rome Guthrie and Sir Edwin Lutyens, the hotel has long been associated with royalty, international dignitaries and celebrities alike. Serving as one of London's main social hubs, Grosvenor House has hosted many significant and extravagant occasions including the Royal Caledonian Ball, The Russian Debutante Ball and, for the past 68 years, the hotel has been the official host of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards. The refined and star-studded heritage of Grosvenor House shines while highlighting the hotels favorable location as a close neighbor to Hyde Park. The transformation embodies the historic grandeur of the hotel while infusing a more stylish and contemporary British feel. JW Marriott Grosvenor House London's complete renovation includes an extensive re-imagination of the ground floor, to complement the alluring views of Hyde Park. The decor, including butterfly wall art and bespoke carpets, incorporates a soft palette of neutrals with accents color that echo the changing seasons. The transformation of the original lobby fireplace includes floor-to-ceiling glass, which seamlessly connects the lobby entrance to the bright Park Room setting. Infusing Hyde Park's lush parkland into the design of the hotel corridors and guestrooms, the hotel exudes sophistication. A delicate foliage pattern gently winds through the hallways, while the redesigned guestrooms take cues from autumn in Hyde Park with rich golden leaves layered over the soft grey carpet to create depth and add warmth. The palette of warm neutrals extends to the two Royal Suites for a full home-away-from-home experience. Large pieces of artwork commissioned specifically for the hotel, including sculptural ceramics and framed imagery, communicate the story of the interconnectedness of travel between London, New York and Paris in the early years of the twentieth century. Modern Cuisine Modeled after stately homes throughout the country, the Park Room features floor-to-ceiling glass windows that emphasize uninterrupted and magnificent views of Hyde Park. Fringed chairs and floral decor provide playful illusions to the hotel's past. Guests can indulge in the award-winning Afternoon Tea, served alongside homemade pastries, or taste the exclusive Yellow Rose tea or Serpentine Gin, both concocted specifically for the hotel using plants found in Hyde Park. Thoughtful live piano entertains guest daily from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. JW Steakhouseserves prime USDA select cuts within a traditional steakhouse setting. For an intimate gathering, guests can opt for the private dining room that can accommodate up to 12 guests. The Al Fresco terrace is also available during the spring and summer months. Adjacent to JW Steakhouse is the notable Bourbon Bar, home to more than 300 rare, pre-prohibition, single batch bourbons. As day turns to night, guests can unwind at Red Bar. In contrast to the neutral palette seen throughout the hotel, Red Bar received its name from the space's sensual red decor. Highly trained mixologists enthrall guests with thoughtfully crafted cocktails, making the bar an ideal spot for a night out. Corrigan's Mayfair, led by award winning Host Patron Richard Corrigan, serves quintessential British and Irish dishes. The hotel's most recent dining outpost, Ruya London offers a taste of contemporary dishes from the Anatolian region, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea. Significant Occasions Boasting one of the largest hotel event venues in Europe, JW Marriott Grosvenor House London features more than 5,000 square meters of flexible meeting space, perfect to host any event, large or small. The crown jewel of the hotel is the Great Room, which can cater for up to 2,000 guests in a single sitting, making it the ideal venue for award ceremonies and receptions. This iconic space was once an ice-skating rink, where young Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) and her sister, Margaret, learned to ice skate. Today, the eight crystal chandeliers and sweeping staircase serve as a reminder of the storied history. The refined Ballroom also incorporates the hotel's history with cut glass chandeliers and Art Deco features. The Court Suite meeting space, with capacity to seat up to 250 guests, features a bespoke carpet humorous in its pattern, reminiscent of ice-skating memories, with ice-sculpture effects projected by the wall lights. Small weddings, banquets or business meetings are an ideal fit for the 86 Park Lane function suites, offering 20 naturally-lit rooms. Rebranding 8 May 2019 Radisson Hospitality AB, part of Radisson Hotel Group, is pleased to announce the signing of a new Radisson Collection property in Milan, Italy. Working in conjunction with Allianz, the group will redevelop the former Allianz Italia headquarters in Milan into the Radisson Collection Hotel, Santa Sofia Milan. Set to open in 2022, the hotel will be managed by Allianz Real Estate on behalf of Allianz group companies. The hotel, located at via Santa Sofia 37 in the central Corso Italia district, will be part of the highly prestigious Radisson Collection portfolio. It will join other landmark Collection properties in Rome, Venice and the recently announced Palazzo Touring Club - also in Santa Sofia, Milan. The transformation project will create a destination hotel for both high-end cosmopolitan and business clientele. It will have 160 guest rooms, including 43 junior suites and 11 suites, while leisure and dining facilities will include a fine gastronomy restaurant and a rooftop bar with views over Milan. Guests will also have access to a wellness terrace on the fourth floor. The hotel, which will also offer hi-tech meeting and events spaces for the local and international business communities, will benefit from the new Santa Sofia M4 underground stop, which is expected to open in 2022 and will directly connect the hotel with the city center and Linate Airport. Allianz was assisted by CBRE Hotels Italy, led by Francesco Calia, throughout the selection process and negotiation of the commercial terms of the lease agreement signed between the parties. Dentons acted as legal advisor with a team led by partner Maria Sole Insinga. The Radisson Hotel Team, led by Mauro Vinci, Senior Director of Business Development for Italy, was assisted by Fabio Basile of the Studio Marco Piva on the technical side and by lawyer Nicola Ferrini. Pipeline 8 May 2019 Ginger expanded its presence in Gujarat with the signing of a new hotel in Dwarka. With the addition of this hotel, Ginger will have eleven hotels in the state. The new hotel will have 99 well-appointed rooms, an all-day diner, a meeting room and a fitness centre offering a truly seamless stay experience to its guests. The hotel is a management contract agreement with Bluerock Hospitality Ventures Pvt. Ltd and is slated to commence operations by the end of May 2019. Dwarka is an ancient city and is well known for its many temples. The city also has a beautiful beach overlooking the vast expanses of the Arabian Sea, a wildlife sanctuary and many more tourist attractions. With the signing of this hotel, The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) will have 15 hotels across its brands in the state of Gujarat. On picture from left: Mr. Aadil Muscatwala, Director, Blue Rock Hospitality Ventures Pvt. Ltd. and Ms. Deepika Rao, MD & CEO, Ginger. Supplier News 7 May 2019 Green practices and environmental responsibility are growing property prerequisites for many travelers. Maestro PMS understands this. Maestro has led the paperless movement for the last 10+ years providing technology solutions that support sustainable hospitality practices. Maestro's most recent property software innovations reduce paper use and simplify the guest journey at every touchpoint beginning with Digital Signature Registration Card through to Mobile Check-Out, streamlining operations and reducing the dependency on paper. "Many Maestro PMS users are independent operators committed to running their properties in ways that protect the environment. Maestro works with these operators to create responsible system processes that support their sustainability goals," said Warren Dehan, Maestro PMS President. "Sustainability is now a defining element for trendy urban properties and stylish beach resorts," said Albert Herrera, senior vice president of Global Product Partnerships for Virtuoso, a luxury travel network. Maestro PMS automatically sends guests content-rich and dynamic reservation confirmations and pre- and post-stay emails. The system's mobile check-in and digital registration eliminates hardcopy registration cards. Maestro's Mobile Check-Out allows guests to review their folio on their mobile device from wherever they are. For guests who visit the front desk to checkout, Maestro's Tablet Folio Review feature allows guests to read their folio for final approval on a tablet at the front desk. Updates may be made digitally and the final folio emailed. "Many properties print a hardcopy folio for guests to review, then print a second folio as each guest is checked out of the system. There is no need for these printouts with Maestro, the entire process can be managed in a paperless way," Dehan said. Maestro also supports electronic funds transfer (EFT) to further reduce paper use, and electronic scanning of guest identification at the front desk eliminates photocopies. Another big reduction in paper use comes from Maestro's paperless reporting that lets properties export to Excel and PDF reports for on-screen viewing and digital archiving. They even go further to offer a fully mobile web-based Business Intelligence Analytics Module that allows management to data mine and report on all Maestro guest and statistical data without the need to print. Further, Maestro's Spa & Activities Management System utilizes tablets for client registration intake forms; ending the need to manually rekey data from paper forms filled out by most spa clients. Paper saving has also been extended to Maestro's Sales & Catering system which supports electronic document signature for group business contracts. Maestro also eliminates hardcopy comment cards with its Guest Experience Measurement (GEM) survey tool. GEM has the added advantage of automatically transferring guest comments and preferences to a guest's history profile for more personalized interactions. "Plus, Maestro enables managers to send housekeepers a mobile version of their schedule. This ends the need to create hardcopy duty sheets for each housekeeper," Dehan said. The Maestro Property Management System (PMS) delivers flexible and scalable deployment options with a feature identical web browser or windows solution available in the cloud or on premise. Maestro's revenue-generating property software tools and services increase profitability, drive direct bookings, centralize operations, and provide personalized and mobile guest service tools to enhance the guest experience. Click here for more information on how to engage and socialize with Maestro PMS. About Maestro PMS Maestro is the preferred cloud and on-premises PMS solution for independent hotels, luxury resorts, conference centers, vacation rentals, and multi-property groups. Maestro's PCI certified and EMV ready enterprise system offers 20+ integrated modules on a single database including web and mobile apps to increase profitability, drive direct bookings, centralize operations, and enable operators to engage guests with a personalized experience. For over 39 years Maestro's Diamond Plus Service has provided unparalleled 24/7 North American based support and education services to keep hospitality groups operational and productive. Click here for more information on Maestro. Press Release 8 May 2019 The Woodlands (Houston), Texas - BENCHMARK, a global hospitality company, announces that Sebastien Layen, executive chef at Deloitte University in Westlake, Texas, was named winner of the 2019 IACC Global Copper Skillet Competition, held recently in Toronto. IACC (formerly the International Association of Conference Centres) introduced the culinary competition in 2004 to highlight the artistry and skill of the best chefs from IACC-member conference venues around the world, and to honor chefs' contributions to providing an outstanding meeting experience. Chef Layen was the winner of regional competitions in IACC's Americas Chapter competition prior to advancing to the finals. Advertisements This year's competition was held at the IACC Americas Connect Conference, which took place in Toronto. Finalists from IACC'S Americas, European and Australian Chapters competed for the title of Global Copper Skillet Champion. The competing chefs were presented with basic pantry items along with a "mystery basket" of proteins and other fresh grocery items. They were given 15 minutes to gather ingredients and 30 minutes to prepare them. Chef Layen won the day with a crusted beef medallion, fig and maple syrup gastrique and a roasted fig, artichoke and root vegetables barigoule. "We are tremendously proud of Chef Layen's achievement, that reflects the commitment of our conference center chefs to reaching new heights of innovation and quality," says Benchmark CEO Alex Cabanas, who also serves as IACC's Board of Directors President. "Benchmark has long recognized the importance of creative food and beverage offerings to the meeting experience and is a pioneer in developing authentic, creative and delicious food at our hotels and conference centers." He notes that Benchmark has introduced a range of ground-breaking culinary initiatives to the meetings industry, including a partnership with the pioneering celebrity Chef Stephan Pyles to create new restaurant concepts, menu development, and training that impact every aspect of the food and beverage product. About Executive Chef Sebastien Layen Executive Chef Sebastien Layen brings a distinguished and varied culinary background to his position at Deloitte University where he oversees all aspects of food preparation for the property. Specializing in the classic cuisine of his native France, he has served in executive positions at several prominent hotels including Hyatt, Omni and Le Meridien. Trained in Europe, he holds advanced degrees in hotel management from L'Ecole Hoteliere de la Citadel de Namur in Belgium. Chef Layen's global travels have influenced his culinary style, with experience in kitchens in Belgium, Tahiti and major American cities including, Miami, New Orleans and San Diego. About IACC Founded in 1981, IACC is dedicated to representing the best meeting venues globally and is, by definition, the future of the meetings industry realised. The association brings together the brightest, most innovative minds from around the globe. IACC elevates the meeting experience by creating a unique point of entry that is inclusive of the best-in-class meeting venues internationally. IACC membership is a symbol of meeting excellence and exceptional connections amongst the best in the meeting industry. This exclusiveness makes IACC's members part of an elite group representing the most innovative, forward-thinking and results-driven meeting venues globally. All members meet a set of stringent Quality Standards and agree to a Code of Ethics. IACC includes over 400 member conference venues from Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Mongolia, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Malaysia, Belgium, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Scotland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, Wales, Canada, Costa Rica and the United States. The IACC Mission Statement: "To bring together the brightest industry minds to promote the best meeting venues, which deliver exceptional meeting experiences. There are meetings... And then there are IACC Meetings". The IACC Vision: "IACC is a global community of passionate people and organisations delivering innovative and exceptional meeting experiences. Press Release 8 May 2019 Radisson Blu has for a second year in a row, secured the leading position as the hotel brand with the most hotels under development and the most hotel deals in its pipeline in Africa, according to the recently published 2019 W Hospitality Pipeline Report. Advertisements Radisson Blu, part of the Radisson Hotel Group took over as the fastest growing hotel brand in Africa last year and has for a second year claimed the title with the recent release of W Hospitality Pipeline Report 2019, the most authoritative source on the growth of the hotel industry in Africa. The report has ranked Radisson Blu as the leading individual hotel brand with the highest number of hotel deals and within this pipeline, the largest number of rooms and proportion of its pipeline actually under construction, in Africa. The Group's upper midscale brand, Park Inn by Radisson, has also entered the same top 10 brand list, securing the fifth position. "We are thrilled to see our flagship brand, Radisson Blu, continuing to lead the way in Africa with the most hotel deals signed and the most hotel rooms under construction, than any of the other 120 hotel brands it was ranked against. This is a true testament of our agility as a hotel group, as we can move quickly from deal signing to hotel opening. As referenced in the report, we had several hotels which were signed and opened within the same year. This is aligned with our development strategy, as we expect our future growth to arise from existing hotel take-overs and new build hotels. With economic headwinds in some African markets, we have identified further opportunities to exploit our vast knowledge and experience in converting unbranded, underperforming hotels, offices or apartment buildings and reposition them to the right brand and market segment within the Radisson Hotel Group brand portfolio," says Andrew Mclachlan, Senior Vice President, Development, Sub-Saharan Africa, Radisson Hotel Group. This growth has spiked Radisson Hotel Group's portfolio in Africa to 99 hotels (20,500+ rooms) in operation and under development across 32 countries. "We aim to add a further 12 hotels to our African portfolio this year, which will take us well over the 100 hotel mark by year end and confidently on our way to securing 130 hotels by the end of 2022. Our five-year development strategy focuses on creating scaled hotel growth in key cities and resort locations across Africa. With a focus on scaled growth in key locations across Africa, we can offer guests multiple hotels across different brands and market segments, at various price points and improved local hotel performance with strong local procurement and cluster select services in the same city." "Cape Town, Johannesburg and Lagos are our three gateway cities in sub-Saharan Africa where we aim to have scaled growth and an ambition of up to ten hotels within the same city. Dakar, Abidjan, Douala, Luanda, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam and Addis Ababa are cities where we aim to have between three and five hotels due to the size of the economy, market, long-term fundamentals and supply and demand opportunities. In addition, we are not ignoring the smaller cities and larger towns across Africa where we've identified potential to penetrate the market with either our midscale Park Inn by Radisson brand or upscale Radisson," concludes Mclachlan. Opinion Article 8 May 2019 EHL recently welcomed three hospitality companies actively engaging in data science during a panel discussion hosted by Associate Professor Alessandro Inversini. Participants shared their experience working with data, its opportunity and its pitfalls. Advertisements Checking in With Data Suzanne Ward, Director Enterprise Solutions Integration MEA - AccorHotels For a hospitality giant like Paris-based AccorHotels - which has 4,200 hotels, operating in 100 countries and a total room-capacity of 570,000 hotel rooms - data has been tapped into inside and outside its hotels and accounts for a major driver of change, not only from a distribution and revenue managements systems perspectives but to capture valuable data points and translate insights around customers' demand. If data can help better predict average lead times, peak dates and blackout periods, effective data usage is really about getting to understand your customers and build accurate profiles - from room preferences to welcome amenities. And how does a group with a gigantic amount of data collection points across 20 brands accurately link customer profiles together? According to Ward, it is first and-foremost all about an organization's ability to make data collection continuous, granular and take actionable measures upon data collection. It means not only handling small details at best - for instance, collecting the correct customer contact information without grammatical errors makes a difference in daily operations - but being able to pinpoint key consumer behaviors and linking it to data collection opportunities. Case in point, having data readily available on guests' spending habits can move the needle on profitability, and knowing what potential guests are searching for before they actually book a trip is precious information that can continuously refine marketing tactics, not only to attract the right consumer segments but also to match them with the right brand profiles. Pinpointing data collection opportunities is only a first step. Tapping into more traditional methods of insights generation such as focus groups can help prioritize guest recognition and experience personalization as top factors to act upon for guests. Then the full data opportunity really comes to life through customer journey mapping - from pre-arrival to post-stay and an organization's ability to establish end-to-end touchpoints and positive moments of truth. The intricacies of data management also raise their own set of challenges. A recent example in hospitality was when the general Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) was issued in the European Union. That not only meant adapting the data collection systems in hotels, but effectively training people handling data, across various layers and functions of the organization. And what about the future in data analytics in hospitality? Ward believes that by freeing up data-crunching tasks to artificial intelligence, employees will be able to think more analytically and critically. Delivering Data Hot Vincent Schaeffer and Teo Stocco - Smood SA At Smood - the food-delivery company serving 11 markets in Switzerland - data is a core element of doing business. Besides the app's user experience being designed with chefs, restaurant owners and of course customers in mind - making it as simple as possible for all parties - the more data the company is able to collect, the better sense it gets in terms of trends and behaviors amongst their customers. By tapping into two dimensions of data - visible data such as the website's and app's usage or invisible data such as algorithms or APIs - the company has been able to aggregate it into models, which have become an essential part of making their product evolve to meet customers' needs. For instance, data models - combined with real time data from drivers' behaviors - are used and updated on an ongoing basis to determine when, where and how to assign car drivers to deliver food and better predicting road traffic bottlenecks to find faster routes. So what's in store for the future Smood? Even more data it seems. Building on his company's competitive advantage in Switzerland, Stocco noted his previous work with Amazon and both him and his counterpart intend to capitalize on key lessons from the eCommerce giant, being the consistently using and adapting the data opportunity to new business cases. Like, Swipe, Subscribe for Data Hampus Ljunggren, Head of Business Development - Travel Appeal Ljunggren, who works at data analytics firm Travel Appeal, shared his experience working with independent hotels and smaller-scale hospitality institutions. According to him, there is a trove of data that is generally not tapped into by hotels, with management sometimes thinking they simply don't have enough data to exploit or that they do not have the right skillset in-house to efficiently start activating existing data points. To better serve customers, Ljunggren believes that companies must take an active approach, first by starting to empower the front line of a hotel and the staff in generalto access guest information and making a data-centric approach part of their day-to-day. After a stay for instance, sharing guest reviews can prove extremely powerful to help the staff improve the quality of their service. Ljunggren cited the example of the breakfast offering of the Dorchester Collection in Los Angeles. The company noted that 50% of clients had made an alteration when requesting a menu item for breakfast. Customers desired change, and Dorchester ditched their menu and implemented a menu-less breakfast. The result: simply satisfied customers. Ljunggren's best advice to hoteliers, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals: Start with your customers in mind. Do what your customer is asking for, not what you think is best for them. Data in a nutshell The quality of data collected (accurate, nimble, constantly updated) bears greater relevance today than the quantity of data received. Think about the diversity of your data team members' profiles and the variety of outcomes they can bring to the table: having a mix of technical experts (in-house or externally) goes without saying to lay out the foundations of data collection, but involving - in various capacity - data scientists as well business professionals and management can create the best business outcomes. So, we have data, right. What's in it for me? Having an internal communications plan to drive internal buy-in as well as clear guidelines for data usage (and restrictions) or performance dashboards accommodating various levels of use by internal stakeholders will go a long way to truly build a data culture within an organization. Opinion Article 8 May 2019 "Competition promotes innovation." Advertisements That's what I believe in the business world, and probably, that statement is a true reflection of what is going on among hotels, Airbnb, and OTAs (online travel agents). Last week, for example, almost every hotelier was talking about Marriott's getting into the short-term residential business. In fact, Marriott had expressed its interest in the home-sharing business back in May 2018, but now, the world's largest hotel chain is finally ready to compete head-to-head with the home-sharing giant, Airbnb. I tend to agree that Airbnb and Marriott each want what the other offers because when Airbnb is getting into the traditional hotel business, hotels are also entering the short-term residential business. Not only they both offer similar products --- accommodation services for the travelers who are away from home, but their customers also demonstrate similar loyalty behaviors when it comes to repeat-purchase of the same service or with the same service provider. According to one of my recent studies, for instance, consumers can also be loyal to a listing as well as the host who manages the listing on a room-sharing website, just like what they would do to hotels and other hospitality/tourism products. The details of the study include: The background - different levels of customer loyalty In a retail setting, consumers can develop loyalty towards a product, a salesperson who sells the product, a store where the product is found, or the brand of a store that sells the product. One level of customer loyalty might or might not spillover to another level. In this study, a special research interest was put on studying two levels of customer loyalty towards home-sharing services, including the level of the service product itself (a listing) and the level of the service provider (the host who manages the listing). Particularly, consumers' actual repeat purchase behaviors were measured as the critical indicator for consumer loyalty. Through our analysis, related businesses will be able to develop effective marketing strategies to promote the repeat purchase behaviors among travelers according to the levels where they build loyalty. The three research questions What are the effects of host attributes on the likelihood of travelers' repurchasing with the same host and of the same listing? Are travelers who have stayed with a home-sharing host/listing before more likely to re-purchase with the same host and/or of the same listing respectively? As the frequency of past stays with the home-sharing host/listing increases, would certain host attributes become more (or less) salient in influencing repeat purchase with the host and/or of the listing? The research settings We adopted the econometrics-based data analytics approaches (ordinary least squares regressions and probability regressions with random effect estimations) to analyze a real-time, large-scale, and granular dataset collected from Xiaozhu.com, a dominant home-sharing website in mainland China. The dataset included the individual travelers' activities with 473 listings managed by 135 hosts in Shanghai, China from August 2012 to August 2016. The dependent variables were "repeat purchase with a host" and "repeat purchase of a listing." The independent variables included: "host attributes," such as "average time in minutes that a host takes to confirm or reject a reservation request," "acceptance rate," and "listing capacity," as well as "frequency of past stays with the host" and "frequency of past stays with the listing." The controlled variables included: "size of a listing," "number of bedrooms," "number of living-rooms," "number of bathrooms," "number of beds," "number of kitchens," "number of balconies," and "number of guests allowed." The results Acceptance rate and listing capacity, as well as the travelers' frequency of past stays with a host, significantly influence a traveler's repeat purchase behaviors with the host. When travelers' frequency of past stays with a host increases, those host attributes being analyzed become less important in their repeat-purchase decisions. The likelihood of a traveler's repeat purchase of a listing would increase as (a) the host shortens the confirmation time and increases the acceptance rate or (b) the traveler's frequency of past stays with the listing increases. The implications: Ways to promote customer loyalty Referring to our findings, hosts should highlight the importance "signals" that can drive travelers' repeat purchase behaviors in their profile and during the communication process with the travelers. They may also work on improving their acceptance rate and lowering the confirmation time. They are encouraged to promote the hosts and listings with those desirable attributes identified in this study by featuring them as "recommended hosts and listings" in a traveler's search results. It is also time for home-sharing websites to roll out loyalty programs that reward their hosts and frequent travelers. Hoteliers are also highly encouraged to carefully review the study for possible implications that are relevant to their daily operations and product development. Hoteliers can embrace the trend of "relationship bonding" as they develop a new product-service mix that appeals to the travelers who repeatedly stay in home-sharing facilities instead of hotels. Access to the study This study was published in the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, in which I worked with another two researchers, Karen Xie at University of Denver and Jiang Wu at Wuhan University in China. Free access to the PDF file of this study is available on Emerald Insight for the first 50 clicks. Do you believe travelers would feel addicted to home-sharing stays, like what is offered in Airbnb? What can hotels do to stay innovative and win travelers' hearts? Radisson Hospitality AB announced the opening of the Radisson Hotel Zurich Airport following a comprehensive reconstruction and rebranding. Radisson Hospitality AB announced the opening of the Radisson Hotel Zurich Airport following a comprehensive reconstruction and rebranding. Arriving in Switzerland's largest city, the hotel will be the second Radisson-branded property to open in Europe and the first in the German-speaking region when it opens on 15 May 2019. As part of a repositioning and rebranding strategy, the former Park Inn by Radisson Zurich Airport in Rumlang has reopened under the Radisson brand. This is part of the group's plan to introduce the upscale full-service hotel brand to the Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) region. Yilmaz Yildirimlar, Area Senior Vice President Central & Southern Europe for Radisson Hotel Group, said: "We are extremely proud to welcome guests to the first Radisson hotel in Switzerland. The transformation around the Zurich Airport is significant, and the rebranding of the hotel represents a key step for the further development of the property in line with the Radisson Hotel Group brand strategy." The Radisson Hotel Zurich Airport has undergone extensive renovation work to prepare it for reopening. All 211 guestrooms have been completely refurbished, along with the communal areas of hotel creating a fresh new look that will appeal to both business and leisure travelers. Meeting and conference attendees will also receive the warmest of welcomes at the new hotel. Its modern meeting infrastructure includes 10 conference rooms with natural daylight, state-of-the-art video and audio technologies as well as complimentary wireless internet. The location in Rumlang offers minimum commuting distances for guests: travel to Zurich Airport in the hotel shuttle takes just seven minutes, while 20 minutes on the city train brings visitors to Zurich's main downtown street, Bahnhofstrasse. The hotel's proximity to the airport also complements the Radisson Blu Hotel, Zurich Airport, which is located directly in the airport terminal. In addition to the reopening of the Radisson Hotel Zurich Airport, Radisson Hotel Group has identified several other projects that will be part of its repositioning and rebranding strategy by 2022. The group has invested more than 60m in the Central & Southern Europe region to drive this plan. Following an extensive makeover of the hotels in Frankfurt and Cologne, the Radisson Blu hotels in Basel and Milan as well as the Radisson Blu Schwarzer Bock Hotel, Wiesbaden are currently undergoing renovation and redesign. The strategy also includes new properties such as the Radisson Blu Hotel, Geneva. Located between Geneva Airport and the city center, the hotel will boast 250 rooms and a comprehensive MICE package with its opening date planned for 2022. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource Extensive Renovation Marks a New Era for the Historic Hotel as it Celebrates its 90th Anniversary JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, yesterday announced the culmination of a multi-million dollar full scale renovation to JW Marriott Grosvenor House London. Directed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) and GA Design, the complete transformation of the hotels guest rooms and public spaces incorporates a fresh take on present-day design while honoring the rich heritage of the property. The reintroduction of the iconic JW Marriott Grosvenor House London signifies an exciting milestone as the property celebrates its ninetieth anniversary this year, said Mitzi Gaskins, Global Brand Leader of JW Marriott. We are thrilled to welcome our guests to the new Grosvenor House where they will continue to enjoy the highest level of luxury, inclusive of enriching experiences and warm, intentional service that embodies the JW Marriott brand. Rich Legacy Replenished The former home of the Duke of Gloucester, Grosvenor House has commanded a notable location on Park Lane since opening its doors in 1929. Originally designed by famed architects L. Rome Guthrie and Sir Edwin Lutyens, the hotel has long been associated with royalty, international dignitaries and celebrities alike. Serving as one of Londons main social hubs, Grosvenor House has hosted many significant and extravagant occasions including the Royal Caledonian Ball, The Russian Debutante Ball and, for the past 68 years, the hotel has been the official host of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) Awards. The refined and star-studded heritage of Grosvenor House shines while highlighting the hotels favorable location as a close neighbor to Hyde Park. The transformation embodies the historic grandeur of the hotel while infusing a more stylish and contemporary British feel. Throughout the 90 years of its legacy, JW Marriott Grosvenor House London has played a role, whether large or small, in the history of this well-beloved city, said Stuart Bowery, General Manager, JW Marriott Grosvenor House London. This year, following significant transformations, our truly iconic hotel begins an exciting new chapter. We look forward to welcoming our guests as we head into the next decade and hope they feel inspired and fulfilled. JW Marriott Grosvenor House Londons complete renovation includes an extensive re-imagination of the ground floor, to complement the alluring views of Hyde Park. The decor, including butterfly wall art and bespoke carpets, incorporates a soft palette of neutrals with accents color that echo the changing seasons. The transformation of the original lobby fireplace includes floor-to-ceiling glass, which seamlessly connects the lobby entrance to the bright Park Room setting. Infusing Hyde Parks lush parkland into the design of the hotel corridors and guestrooms, the hotel exudes sophistication. A delicate foliage pattern gently winds through the hallways, while the redesigned guestrooms take cues from autumn in Hyde Park with rich golden leaves layered over the soft grey carpet to create depth and add warmth. The palette of warm neutrals extends to the two Royal Suites for a full home-away-from-home experience. Large pieces of artwork commissioned specifically for the hotel, including sculptural ceramics and framed imagery, communicate the story of the interconnectedness of travel between London, New York and Paris in the early years of the twentieth century. Modern Cuisine Modeled after stately homes throughout the country, the Park Room features floor-to-ceiling glass windows that emphasize uninterrupted and magnificent views of Hyde Park. Fringed chairs and floral decor provide playful illusions to the hotels past. Guests can indulge in the award-winning Afternoon Tea, served alongside homemade pastries, or taste the exclusive Yellow Rose tea or Serpentine Gin, both concocted specifically for the hotel using plants found in Hyde Park. Thoughtful live piano entertains guest daily from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. JW Steakhouse serves prime USDA select cuts within a traditional steakhouse setting. For an intimate gathering, guests can opt for the private dining room that can accommodate up to 12 guests. The Al Fresco terrace is also available during the spring and summer months. Adjacent to JW Steakhouse is the notable Bourbon Bar, home to more than 300 rare, pre-prohibition, single batch bourbons. As day turns to night, guests can unwind at Red Bar. In contrast to the neutral palette seen throughout the hotel, Red Bar received its name from the spaces sensual red decor. Highly trained mixologists enthrall guests with thoughtfully crafted cocktails, making the bar an ideal spot for a night out. Corrigans Mayfair, led by award winning Host Patron Richard Corrigan, serves quintessential British and Irish dishes. The hotels most recent dining outpost, Ruya London offers a taste of contemporary dishes from the Anatolian region, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea. Significant Occasions Boasting one of the largest hotel event venues in Europe, JW Marriott Grosvenor House London features more than 5,000 square meters of flexible meeting space, perfect to host any event, large or small. The crown jewel of the hotel is the Great Room, which can cater for up to 2,000 guests in a single sitting, making it the ideal venue for award ceremonies and receptions. This iconic space was once an ice-skating rink, where young Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) and her sister, Margaret, learned to ice skate. Today, the eight crystal chandeliers and sweeping staircase serve as a reminder of the storied history. The refined Ballroom also incorporates the hotels history with cut glass chandeliers and Art Deco features. The Court Suite meeting space, with capacity to seat up to 250 guests, features a bespoke carpet humorous in its pattern, reminiscent of ice-skating memories, with ice-sculpture effects projected by the wall lights. Small weddings, banquets or business meetings are an ideal fit for the 86 Park Lane function suites, offering 20 naturally-lit rooms. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest Hotel industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hotel News Resource This Saturday, May 11, the highly coveted Travis ScottAir Jordan 1 will collab release at select retailers and boutiques across the country and you'll need plenty of luck (or a solid connect) to get your hands on a pair. While most stores will be distributing the Cactus Jack 1s via your standard raffle procedure, New Orleans-based sneaker boutique Sneaker Politics is making things a little more interesting. You'll just need a little bit of that Charlie Bucket luck. On Friday, May 10, Sneaker Politics will be releasing their Jordan 1 Low collab, limited to just 504 pairs as a nod to the NOLA area code. Select pairs will come with a golden ticket - and that ticket will give you access to purchase the Travis ScottAir Jordan 1. Sneaker Politics will also be releasing La Flame's AJ1 collab via a standard raffle, but you can increase your chances of securing a pair by showing up to their Block Party on Friday, May 10 and purchasing a pair of Jordan 1 Low Politics. Check out more images of the kicks and release details in the IG post embedded below. https://www.instagram.com/p/BxNIsdMBC6A https://www.instagram.com/p/BxKnQKKB5Ly Police have apprehended two suspects following a school shooting in Denver this afternoon. According to the Denver Post, the shooting occurred around 2 p.m. at STEM School Highlands Ranch in Highlands Ranch, Colorado -- a Denver suburb -- that left eight people injured, according to Douglas County Sheriff's Office. The suspects are said to be students from the school -- one man and the other a juvenile. The school was placed on lockdown after the shooting occurred, along with other schools from the area. Police initially believed that there was a third gunman involved but officials believe that they've apprehended the men responsible for the shooting. FBI is currently helping local law enforcement. The police haven't gone into details about the severity of the injuries sustained by the victims but they also haven't reported any deaths. Littleton Adventist Hospital said they received five patients. Two of them remain in serious condition while the other three have been discharged. Skyridge Medical Center said there were two patients from the school there but the injuries aren't life-threatening. Parents were told to meet their children at the Northridge Recreation Center which was close to the school. https://twitter.com/_/status/1125870006955208704 STEM School Highlands Ranch is roughly eight miles away from Columbine High School where the 1999 school shooting took place that left twelve students and a teacher dead. We'll keep you updated on more information once available. The obsession with true crime only amplifies as the years go on, and networks are cashing in. The ID Channel is the go-to spot for 'round the clock crime shows, but for years the Oxygen network has been shifting from its Bad Girls Club reputation to true crime programming. Oxygen is upping the ante by picking up several new series, including three produced by Kim Kardashian, Ice-T, and Mark Wahlberg. "Oxygen is tremendously excited to work with some of the biggest names in the industry on such important projects," said Rod Aissa, Executive Vice President of original programming and development. "This year weve increased our original hours by more than 30 percent, and we'll keep ramping up our programming efforts as more fans flock to the network to experience best-in-class content." The network also announced what they have in the months to come on Instagram. "We have some amazing projects in store at @Oxygen and we're so excited to share them with you," they wrote. "Swipe to see some of the new and familiar faces we can't wait to work with!" https://www.instagram.com/p/BxK2oxHHbbL The "Keeping Up With the Kardashians" star is bringing "Kim Kardashian: The Justice Project" produced by Bunim Murray Productions. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the show is "inspired by the reality star's work to grant clemency to Alice Marie Johnson." It will be a two-hour documentary that "follows Kardashian as she pursues a career in law and works to free other prisoners she believes have been wronged by the justice system. Mark Wahlberg's Unrealistic Ideas brings Exploited that highlights the work done by the DeliverFund, an organization that fights sex trafficking in the U.S. Ice-T and the Content Group are set to deliver Framed by the Killer, a show that features stories of crimes that seems to point to one killer, only for investigators to later conclude that the suspect has been framed. Ice-T already works with Oxygen as a host on the show In Ice Cold Blood. https://www.instagram.com/p/BxIHlbmHRu2 Trae the Truth has recently spoken up about helping his fellow Houstonians with the overwhelming flood waters the city is scheduled to go through very soon. The Texas-bred rapper shared a message via an Instagram video hinting on the oncoming natural disaster and urged folks to reach out to his volunteer group, Relief Gang. The aforementioned association is known to help out individuals during major floods. Moreover, Trae added he would be doing several rescues within the next few days, considering the threatening weather will most likely worsen. https://www.instagram.com/p/BxLnF16AkTO This would not be Trae the Truth's first act of benevolence when it comes to natural disasters. During Hurricane Harvey, the rapper also helped out by rescuing people who were trapped due to the flooding waters. Moreover, he also lent a hand to rebuild the homes which were damaged from the passing hurricane. To note, Hurricane Harvey occurred back in 2017 and ravaged both the Houston metropolitan area and parts of Southeast Texas. The storm was considered one of the most damaging in US history, inflicting a total of $125 billion dollars in damages. The disaster ensued major flooding which resulted from the catastrophic rainfall triggered by the storm. [Via] Behind a black metal fence, past multiple electronic locks, in a restricted corner of an already high-security brick building, specially trained men and women work 24-hours a day defending the nation. They scan giant computer screens looking for infiltrators. Their only weapons are strings of computer code. None are law enforcement officers or government employees. Yet they defend government agencies and corporations from global threats. Cyber criminals seized control of at least 1,700 U.S. websites in 2017, according to FBI figures. A quarter of U.S. cities report cyberattacks every hour. Global corporations even more. Cybersecurity professionals are part hacker and part defender of the universe. Untiring barbarians incessantly rush the gates, where these paladins trained in computer science, engineering and psychology defend the ramparts. More and more, they are private contractors. On HoustonChronicle.com: San Antonio investing to become cyber hub Professional services firm Accenture recently opened a state-of-the-art cybersecurity operations center in San Antonio and gave me a tour. The center looks like a military command center with experts surrounded by multiple monitors. At the front of the room, big screens reveal computer applications working to identify and stop cyberattacks. Much of the work is classified, as is the clientele, but Accenture serves both public and private-sector customers. Business is booming. You have to do a lot of this work onshore with U.S. citizens, and San Antonio is one of the hottest areas for cybersecurity in the world, Ben Peavy, managing director of Accentures San Antonio Delivery Center. With the National Security Agency nearby, and both the Air Force and Army running cybersecurity operations in San Antonio, the city is a natural fit. And while local universities offer degrees in cybersecurity, Peavy also hires people straight out of high school or the armed services. We believe we have to be part of the solution in building tech talent and skills in San Antonio, he said. We have proven that we can reskill veterans and put people through boot camps in areas to make them job-ready in a relatively short period of time. Jen Combs, managing director and cyber practice lead, said she never hacked a computer before she entered the field 20 years ago. There are entry-level paths into cyber in multiple different areas, whether its at the network level for someone who likes to talk about the bits and bytes of computers, or at the developer level, where they can attend a boot camp, she said. Women and minorities tend not to see themselves in that role because thats not what they see on television, but we could really use them. The work is among the most exciting in information technology, Combs said, touting the chance to work with the newest, most cutting-edge technologies. Accenture uses an automated, artificial intelligence system to defeat routine attacks, as well as professionals who watch for the newest and nastiest forms of malware. When you have an attack, something will happen, but thats almost never the end of it. There is a next step, Combs said. Now you can see them trying to spread, or you can see them trying to get deeper into the system. Those things throw up flags if you know what you are looking for. If its a well-known strategy, artificial intelligence can kill it in 30 seconds. A never-seen-before attack may take a while to detect, and in worst case scenarios, several days or weeks to defeat. On HoustonChronicle.com: Demand for new engineers requires new schools teaching with new techniques Convincing a cyber professional to speak about their work is tough, but to recruit more people to join the profession requires openness about the opportunities. The cyber warriors I spoke with are as diverse as humanity, and they share an esprit de corps rarely found outside the military or law enforcement. We are all slightly paranoid, and we all think we are cooler than everybody else, Combs said with a sly smile. It is for people who want to be part of a culture of security, where you get to play with cool new things and are willing to take the appropriate training to always stay up to date. Because if you are not cutting-edge on security, you are going to miss things in this job. For most of human history, security depended on the strongest people with the deadliest weapons. But today, security depends on clever people with problem-solving skills. Its not necessarily what you know, but what you can learn. Every company that uses information technology needs professional cybersecurity help. Whether they employ an expert or hire a firm like Accenture, few careers offer such a bright future. Tomlinson writes commentary about business, economics and policy. chris.tomlinson@chron.com twitter.com/cltomlinson BP is getting into the startup business launching its own well technology business, called Lytt, with others on the way. BP developed the acoustic, fiber-optics technology a couple of years ago to help identify sand interference in its offshore wells and the British energy supermajor has now created a corporate subsidiary for its Lytt business. "The technology has legs beyond what BP's needs are," said Ahmed Hashmi, BP's chief digital and technology officer, at the week-long Offshore Technology Conference in Houston's NRG Park. BP plans to use the technology - already in use in the North Sea and Azerbaijan - for its operated and non-operated rigs, and to eventually market it to other companies. BP describes its Lytt technology as similar to the Shazam mobile phone application that identifies songs. Lytt, which has its own app, uses fiber optics to identify sounds in wells and paint a picture of the well conditions, including sand interference. RELATED: The future of offshore technology is both simple and complex Lytt is Norwegian for "listen." A primary developer of the technology is BP's Tommy Langnes, who's also Norwegian. "We use acoustic sounds to illuminate the subsurface," Langnes said. The data from each well is the equivalent of downloading 1,000 Netflix films simultaneously, BP said. But BP sees Lytt as just the start. Apart from the BP Ventures division that invests in other technology companies, BP recently created BP Launchpad as a business incubator to develop its own tech companies. About three years ago as crude prices bottomed out during the last oil bust, BP realized this wasn't just another oil price cycle. This was a fundamental shift in the industry that required BP to go all in on investing in new technology to become more efficient and keep costs down long term, said Ian Kavanagh, BP's head of upstream modernization and transformation. BP is already saving billions of dollars by simplifying and leaning more on technology than ever before, Kavanagh said. "We are just three years into an ongoing journey," he said. One of the worlds largest oil industry conferences has a rising star renewable energy. At this years Offshore Technology Conference, companies that sell equipment to oil and gas drillers are pitching their products for renewable energy, too. Attendees are crowding into panel discussions to hear engineers and geoscientists present research on techniques to make renewable energy more cost effective. Wind developers are flying in from California and New York to opine on the nascent, but growing offshore wind energy market in the United States. Renewable energy has arrived in full force at OTC this year as more traditional oil producers and the service and equipment companies that serve them look to diversify their portfolios. Global offshore wind energy is poised to grow dramatically in the coming decades, with cumulative investments in offshore wind projected to reach $350 billion by 2030 and nearly $1.5 trillion by 2050, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. And traditional oil companies increasingly want a piece of that burgeoning market. Doreen Harris, who oversees large scale renewable projects for the state of New York, said she wasnt surprised to be asked to speak at the historically oil-centric OTC this year. Its the oil and gas companies that are in some ways most interested in offshore wind developments, she said. Its the a manifestation of the market. U.S. an emerging offshore wind market Offshore wind has taken off in the United Kingdom, Europe and China, but is only now beginning to break into the U.S. market. Only one offshore wind farm operates in U.S. waters, a five-turbine development off the coast of Rhode Island capable of producing 30 megawatts of electricity, enough to power about 6,000 Texas homes on a summer day. But as the cost of offshore wind production falls and more governments set ambitious targets for renewable energies, the business opportunity in the U.S. is huge. Oil companies such as the Norwegian firm Equinor and the European supermajor Royal Dutch Shell want a piece of the growth. Related: Offshore wind for Texas a decade away The U.S. has the technical resource potential to develop more than 2,000 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity, almost double the nations current electricity use, according to the Department of Energy. Over the next decade, seven East Coast states are projected to spend almost $70 billion on capital expenditures building nearly 20 gigawatts of offshore wind generating capacity to meet aggressive renewable targets, according to a University of Delaware study. The federal government, meanwhile, is laying the groundwork to start bidding rights to build offshore wind off the California coast. Companies are now willing to pay more for offshore wind leases in federal waters. In December, companies agreed to pay $135 million to lease blocks off the coast of Massachusetts, setting a new record that was more than triple the price paid in a previous federal offshore wind auction in 2016. This year, the state of New York received a record number of proposals from companies wanting to build wind energy developments offshore. Falling costs for offshore wind are making projects more commercially viable and more attractive to investors. Since the Rhode Island wind farm was built in 2016, the cost of offshore wind power in the United States has plunged nearly 75 percent, according to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, a professional association based in New York. Energy companies are looking to develop deepwater wind projects for some of the same reasons they looked offshore to drill for oil, said Dominique Roddier, Chief Technology Officer at the California-based deepwater wind developer Principle Power, which also sent representatives to OTC. The ocean offers a bigger field and often better resources, Roddier said. In the case of wind, it blows more steadily offshore than onshore. Roddier, who started his career at Exxon Mobil, said more engineers, geoscientists and developers like him are switching from offshore oil to offshore wind. They can apply some of the same skills, philosophies, safety standards and technical know-how to renewable energy, he added. Big ships, big valves and big renewables In years past, the British company Survitec played up its life boats and other personal protection gear to the oil company representatives at OTC. But this year, the company decided to focus on how it supports the renewables industry with protective clothing for power production platforms. The company is betting that the offshore U.S. wind industry is on the verge of taking off, much like the United Kingdom was a few years ago before becoming one of the worlds leaders in offshore wind production. Survitec, which featured big photos of offshore wind turbines in its booth, aims to become an early vendor to companies eager to get in on the ground floor of wind production off the U.S. coast. On HoustonChronicle.com: Subsidies for renewables under attack in Texas Id like to think we have all the right products so when someone comes in here from the United States, were ready to go, said Kevin Laing, head of energy sales. But exhibitors know theyre still dealing with an oil and gas crowd. The key, vendors say, is to show they can still provide products and services for drilling such as corrosion monitoring and down-hole imaging, but also adapt them to renewables. The Dutch company Emce Winches, for example, sells winches used to lift and lower heavy objects from oil platform. But it also promotes the flexibility of its winches, which are used in assembling and installing wind turbines. People dont come here and say, Im a wind mill manufacturer. Can you help me on this? said Peter-Paul Stokvis, the companys chief executive. In another part of the exhibition hall, conference goers gathered around a model of the core product of Amsterdam-based SBM Offshore: a floating production, storage and off-loading vessel used for offshore oil production. But a few feet away, another model was drawing attention: a floating wind turbine. The turbine is made with many of the same parts that SBM uses to make deep sea vessels designed to process and store oil produced offshore, including floating buoys for stabilization. SBM has sold a French utility three, 8-megawatt offshore turbines that will be located off the coast of Marseille in 2021. Oil and gas will still be around for another 25 to 30 years, said the companys press officer Paula Farquharson-Blengino, but the energy mix will shift. Renewables, she said, will become the bigger act down the road. lm.sixel@chron.com marissa.luck@chron.com Single-family home sales across the Houston area were up 7.8 percent in April, the third straight monthly increase and the biggest gain so far this year, according to a monthly report from the Houston Association of Realtors. The association attributed the jump to lower mortgage rates, improving oil prices, steady economic growth and a greater supply of housing. Indeed, inventory inched up to a four-month supply, compared with 3.5 months in April 2018 and the highest figure in seven months. The number of available properties for sale jumped 13.8 percent to 42,086. RELATED: Buyers and sellers face a mixed bag in Houston real estate market Homes that sold for at least $750,000 saw the biggest sales increase over last year, followed by sales in the $150,000 to $250,000 range, according to the report, which tracks sales handled through the Multiple Listing Service across Harris, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties, as well as parts of Brazoria, Galveston, Waller and Wharton counties. Overall, buyers closed on 7,586 single-family homes last month, up from 7,035 a year earlier. The median sales price in April was $245,000, up 2.1 percent. Year-to-date, sales are ahead 2.2 percent over last year's record pace. NEW LOOPED IN: Buildings, barbecue and bus lines "Consumers have been taking advantage of optimal conditions for homebuying, with low interest rates and a growing supply of properties, and that has powered Houston to a strong springtime performance," Shannon Cobb Evans, the association's chair, said in a statement. "The rental market also remains healthy, and we're relieved to see sales finally turning around among townhomes and condominiums." Townhouse and condo sales were flat in April after a seven-month run of year-over-year declines. A total of 595 townhouses and condominiums sold last month, but the median price fell 9 percent to $163,000. Inventory grew to a 4.5-month supply, up from a 3.9 months. Do you recall that chilling shot in The Exorcist of the ancient demonic statue unearthed from a Middle Eastern desert? A similarly sinister statue plays a key role in Hail Satan?, a wry, thought-provoking documentary directed by Penny Lane. Depicting a goat-headed deity called Baphomet, this statue emerged from an internet crowdfunding campaign launched by a group that traces its roots all the way back to 2013, and Tallahassee. Hail Satan? tracks the rise of the Satanic Temple, a cheeky activist group that runs with the devil less out of occultist beliefs than a reverence for puckish rebellion. The group first gained notice with its 2013 press conference at the Florida Capitol in support of Gov. Rick Scotts efforts to get prayer in schools. Scott also was helping little satanists, Temple members told a crowd consisting mostly of media. Its press savvy helped the group, headquartered in a black house in wait for it Salem, Mass., spread the word and draw like-minded activists. The 6-year-old group now counts more than a dozen chapters. Free speech and religious pluralism are primary aims, but the Temple also has used its agitprop on behalf of LGBTQ and abortion rights. Members held a Pink Mass over the grave of the mother of anti-gay minister Fred Phelps, posthumously declaring her a lesbian. Hail Satan? Rated R: for graphic nudity, some strong language Running time: 95 minutes Where: Landmark River Oaks, Houston *** (out of 5) See More Collapse Then theres the prop-prop, Baphomet. Conceived as a countermeasure to a Ten Commandments monument at the Oklahoma Capitol, the statue was supposed to go next to the commandments, to represent religious pluralism. But before that could happen, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ordered the original monument removed, citing separation of church and state. Although the Baphomet statue never was installed, the Temple subsequently has trucked it out for photo ops. The sculptor left room on its lap for people to sit, Temple co-founder and deadpan spokesman Lucien Greaves points out. Greaves also gives a shoutout to the late Anton LaVey, who ran the Church of Satan from his black house in San Francisco, as forebear of the Temples modern satanism. The Temples version seems a lot more modern than LaVeys. The Santa Cruz chapter picks up litter as part of an adopt-a-beach program, for goodness sake. Lanes approach can seem too determinedly light, as if she wants to get across how much satanists are just like us. She barely touches on the growing pains inevitable to a group that experienced such a quick expansion. Hail Satan? is too lacking in conflict (apart from the eternal one) to be a true study of a movement. But its a highly entertaining survey. Carla Meyer is a Northern California-based writer. Good new movies, regardless of what others may tell you, are never in short supply. Enter any theater and you are more than likely to find one worth your time. What you are less apt to find is enchantment: a picture that succeeds, through some alchemy of dazzling trickery and genuine feeling, in recapturing the pleasures of what was once commonly known as movie magic. The glory of Long Days Journey Into Night, a full-body swoon of a movie from the 28-year-old Chinese director Bi Gan, is an ingenious, nearly hour-long sequence that was shot in an unbroken take and then converted to 3-D in post-production. It constitutes the second act and the emotional centerpiece of this moody, mind-bending romantic noir, and it ranks among the great poetic and technical achievements in recent cinema. (While the movie has been shown in standard 2-D in some markets, the 3-D version begins screening this week at AMC Studio 30, and is strongly recommended in that format.) The first half of Long Days Journey Into Night consists of shorter individual shots and sequences, but its progression is still dizzying, slipping freely and without warning among flashbacks, reveries and present-tense reality. Long Days Journey Into Night Rated: Unrated Running time: 138 minutes Language: In Mandarin with English subtitles Where: AMC Studio 30, Houston ***** (out of 5) See More Collapse ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Director Bi Gan discusses 'Long Day's Journey Into Night' At the beginning, whatever that means, an ex-casino manager named Luo Hongwu (Huang Jue) has returned home after his fathers death to Kaili City, in Chinas subtropical Guizhou province. As Luo returns to his old stomping grounds his every forward step draws him backward, inexorably, into the past. As you have probably guessed, this Long Days Journey Into Night has little to do with Eugene ONeill. A more literal translation of the Chinese title would be Last Evenings on Earth, which also happens to be the title of a collection of short stories by the Chilean writer Roberto Bolano. At once a cultural magpie and an unabashed show-off, Bi has structured his movie as a labyrinth of allusions, drawing on such classics of head-trip cinema as David Lynchs Mulholland Dr., Apichatpong Weerasethakuls Tropical Malady and Andrei Tarkovskys Stalker. He owes perhaps his greatest stylistic debt to Wong Kar-wai, the Hong Kong auteur best known for his magnificent art-house romance In the Mood for Love. Wongs influence here is like a pulse, beating steadily beneath those gorgeous surfaces: Its there in the voiceover that wraps every image in a veil of melancholy; the seductive, near-fetishistic attention to detail; and the undeniable resemblance between Luo and Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Wongs most famous leading man. ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Chinese director Zhang Yimou is back in top form with 'Shadow' Most of all, its there in the directors shared obsession with themes of lost time and remembrance. Memories of Luos past acquaintances keep resurfacing, including a childhood friend, nicknamed Wildcat, who died years ago at the hands of a local gangster (Chen Yongzhong), and a beautiful former lover, Wan Qiwen (Tang Wei, Lust, Caution), who has long since disappeared. A sense of disorientation is a wholly appropriate response to a movie in which the past is both irretrievable and unshakable. But even at its most openly baffling, Long Days Journey Into Night never loses its seductive pull. And then, just when it seems to have reached its formal limits, the picture triumphantly slips its own representational bonds. About halfway through, Luo enters a movie theater and dons a pair of three-D glasses, which is your cue to do the same. Immediately you are transported alongside him into a gorgeous nocturnal landscape, gently borne aloft by the steady, graceful movement of the camera. In contrast with, say, Gravity or Birdman, which achieved their long traveling shots largely through digital editing and visual effects, this sequence was choreographed and executed, with no small difficulty, in real time. The effect is one of sustained tension and wonderment, a state that compels both heightened attention and woozy surrender. NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Find fun things to do and see around Houston in our weekly Preview newsletter. Subscribe here. Zhang Yimou has got his groove back. After a career as one of Chinas most respected directors the man who made such pioneering works as Raise the Red Lantern and Red Sorghum and put the art in martial arts with the gorgeous Hero and House of Flying Daggers he attempted a misguided international co-production in 2016 with the period-piece monster flick The Great Wall starring Matt Damon. Now, hes again doing what he does best with Shadow, a rapturously beautiful, if at times confounding, work that is less like the average multiplex fodder and more like a work combining the exquisite details of Chinese ink-brush painting with the melodramatic extravagance and suspension of disbelief of opera. Its a visually stunning film that deserves to be seen in the best theatrical environment possible. Yet, unlike Hero or Daggers, whose lush, rainbow-vibrant colors popped off the screen, the bleaker Shadow is a miracle in monochrome, a storm cloud of blacks, whites, grays and dark greens streaked with bright splashes of red from all the spilled blood. RELATED: Bi Gan, director of 'Long Day's Journey Into Night,' is the new face of Chinese cinema ShadowShadow Rated: Unrated (medieval war violence) Running time: 116 minutes Where: AMC Houston 8, Houston; AMC Studio 30, Houston Language: in Mandarin with English subtitles **** (out of 5) Rated: Unrated (medieval war violence) Running time: 116 minutes Where: AMC Houston 8, Houston; AMC Studio 30, Houston Language: In Mandarin with English subtitles ****1/2 (out of 5) See More Collapse Set in third-century China, Shadow opens amid an uneasy peace that exists between the outwardly cowardly King of Pei (Zhang Kai) and the rulers of a neighboring kingdom who control Jing, a city that used to be under Peis control. Heres where things get confusing. One of the kings commanders, Yu (Chao Deng), is pressuring the monarch to take back Jing by force. But the Yu the king is dealing with is not the real Yu, hes an imposter (also played by Deng) a so-called shadow who channels orders from the actual Yu who resides in a dungeon in the palace. The real Yu was seriously hurt in a previous battle with the other kingdom but doesnt want anyone to know hes close to death so, much like Saddam Hussein, he has a body double. Only the wife of the real Yu (Sun Li) knows the truth, but shes complicating things by falling in love with the fake Yu. Meanwhile, the simpering king is more than willing to have his uncooperative sister (Guan Xiaotong) be the concubine to the son (Leo Wu) of the foreign lands General Yang (Hu Jun) just to keep the peace. But there will be no peace. Not today. After the sometimes laborious setup of all the palace intrigue, Shadow takes off once the fake Yu and his followers go to war. But Yimou doesnt just stage typical martial-arts mayhem; he paints pictures that may not reflect any type of military reality, ancient or modern one of the primary weapons is a death-dealing steel umbrella but are striking to behold. One fantastical scene involving Yus people invading the town tucked inside their spinning, cascading umbrellas ranks as one of the most stunningly original images put on film this year. And when Yus wife helps her husband train his doppelganger, the elaborate dance of male and female where yin clashes against yang the Taoist yin-yang symbol is everywhere in the movie feels as intricate and nuanced as a tea ceremony. Shadow may not be 69-year-old Yimous best work. But its a reminder that, despite the collapse of The Great Wall, his best days are not all behind him. cary.darling@chron.com Zhang Yimou owed us this one. After a career as one of Chinas most respected directors the man who made such pioneering works as Raise the Red Lantern and Red Sorghum and put the art in martial arts with the gorgeous Hero and House of Flying Daggers he attempted a global tentpole in 2016 with the unwatchable monster flick The Great Wall starring Matt Damon. Now, hes back with what he does best with Shadow, an exquisite, rapturously beautiful, if at times confounding, work that, at times, feels less like the average multiplex fodder and more like a Chinese ink-brush painting crossed with an opera. Its a visually stunning film that deserves to be seen in the best theatrical environment possible. (So, even when it becomes available to watch on your mobile device, dont.) Yet, unlike Hero or Daggers, whose lush, vibrant colors popped off the screen, the bleaker Shadow is a storm cloud of blacks, whites, grays and dark greens splashed with bright streaks of red from all the spilled blood. Set in third-century China, Shadow opens amid an uneasy peace that exists between the outwardly cowardly King of Pei (Zhang Kai) and the rulers of a neighboring kingdom who control Jing, a city that used to be under Peis control. Heres where things get confusing. One of the kings commanders, Yu (Chao Deng), is pressuring the monarch to take back Jing by force. But the Yu the king is dealing with is not the real Yu, hes an imposter (also played by Deng) a so-called shadow who channels orders from the actual Yu who resides in a dungeon in the palace. The real Yu was seriously hurt in a previous battle with the other kingdom but doesnt want anyone to know hes close to death so, much like Saddam Hussein, he has a body double. Only the wife of the real Yu (Sun Li) knows the truth but shes complicating things by falling in love with the fake Yu. Meanwhile, the simpering king is more than willing to have his uncooperative sister (Guan Xiaotong) be the concubine to the son (Leo Wu) of the foreign lands General Yang (Hu Jun) just to keep the peace. But there will be no peace. Not today. After the sometimes laborious setup of all the palace intrigue, Shadow takes off once the fake Yu and his followers go to war. But Yimou doesnt just stage typical martial-arts mayhem; he paints pictures that may not reflect any type of military reality be it ancient or modern one of the primary weapons is a death-dealing steel umbrella but are ravishingly beautiful to behold. One fantastical scene involving Yus people invading the town tucked inside their spinning, cascading umbrellas ranks as one of the most stunningly original images put on film this year. And when Yus wife helps her husband train his doppelganger, the elaborate dance of male and female where yin clashes against yang the Taoist yin-yang symbol is everywhere in the movie feels as intricate and nuanced as a tea ceremony. Shadow isnt 69-year-old Yimous best work. But its a reminder that, despite the collapse of The Great Wall, his best days are not all behind him. Biopics are difficult beasts to tackle. To make them something beyond a Wikipedia page with moving pictures, they need to be more than just events in a life telescoped into two hours. They should be imbued with a purpose and point of view. Unfortunately, the well-crafted, well-acted and finely burnished Tolkien, which covers the early years of John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, better known as the author of the fantasy classics The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, despite some impressive moments, never makes that leap. Born in South Africa but raised in England from the age of 3 by a single mother, the young Tolkien (Harry Gilby) had a tough childhood. He was a precocious kid and his cash-strapped mother (Laura Donnelly) fed his imagination with fantastical stories, no doubt paving the way for his later pursuits. Unfortunately, she passed away when he was 12 (the movie doesnt give the cause), and he and his brother, Hilary (Guillermo Bedward), are entrusted to the care of the moms priest, Father Morgan (Colm Meaney). In turn, he enrolled them in a prep school, where John would meet the four boys who would offer friendship and, in a very obvious bit of foreshadowing, become the basis for the male bonding at the heart of his novels. He also meets the girl, Edith (Mimi Keene), who will be the love his life in the foster home in which hes staying. Tolkien Rated PG-13: for some sequences of war violence Running time: 112 minutes ** (out of 5) See More Collapse But much of this feels rushed, as theres lots of life left to cover for adult Tolkien (a very good Nicholas Hoult), including his courtship of the adult Edith (Lily Collins), his entrance (and near expulsion) from Oxford, his love of inventing languages, the brotherly bonds and intellectual games he shares with his friends, nearly losing his life in the trench warfare of WWI and putting pen to paper to start the book that would change his life. Yet for all of that, Finnish director Dome Karukoski (Tom of Finland), working from a script by David Gleeson and Stephen Beresford, doesnt even hint at the importance that Catholicism played in Tolkiens life and work. This is a pretty big omission. So whats left is a kaleidoscope of well-staged episodes Tolkien on the field of battle surrounded by a circle of dead bodies is harrowing that often seem more like prettified postcards from midcentury Britain than a real-life being lived by real people. (There is a strong, though too brief, turn from Derek Jacobi as one of his linguistics professors.) When Tolkien hallucinates monsters and creatures during the fog of battle or declares his group of guy friends a fellowship, it feels too on-the-nose. The audience could make those connections without such obvious cues. Tolkien would have been better served by a miniseries that could more leisurely explore the chapters of this writers life, something that could better approximate the detail and attention he applied to his novels. Instead, what he has gotten is a picture book. cary.darling@chron.com I realize that lunchtime is closing on us, as patrons gather, singly or in small groups, at the Pyburn's Farms Fresh Foods hot food counter. Steam rises from oxtails, chicken wings, boudin balls, and other delicacies soul food by way of south Louisiana with stops in China (egg rolls), Mexico (menudo), and Italy (spaghetti). This is not your ordinary supermarket food counter, where the victuals are primarily prepared off-site before being assembled, reheated, and, at times, even cooked; dreary fare that is rarely attuned to place or clientele. It's a very different scene here. Wearing a green Pyburn's t-shirt and hat, nine-year-old Zaniah Jackson, a seasoned store expert, percolates a wonderful, bright energy. She catches my eye, as if to suggest, hey, listen, this is important: "I have a lot of favorite parts of the store... jalapenos, the breakfast aisle, the snack aisle, the cereal aisle," trailing off just as a chorus of adults interjects, "Everything!" Zaniah's grandfather "Rev" Ivan Jackson considers her with warm, smiling eyes. Rev, a reverend who lives in the neighborhood, works at Pyburn's a busy man. New lunch counter arrivals nod, smile or exchange pleasantries, alternately calling him Rev or Ivan. Todd Romero He breaks from a variety of other tasks on Thursdays to make a special chicken wing recipe, which Pyburn's Regional Manager Larry Johnson explains is a steady seller at the South Union store, the company's newest property and the only one of his markets that grocer John Vuong has built from the ground up. Place plays an important role in how he operates his Pyburn's Farms Fresh Foods stores. Vuong's stores primarily cater to food insecure or underserved areas in greater Houston. Independent grocery stores like his are more varied, engaging, and dynamic consumer and community places than the typical American supermarkets. Moreover, his approach to successfully running his string of grocery stores points to the crucial ways in which immigrant entrepreneurs are quietly reinventing food businesses in a manner that suggests a rather keen ear for tuning place to community needs in a complex competitive environment. The Rodney Dangerfield of place, the modern supermarket gets no respect at all; at least from academics and critics, who see a contrived space as tired as the old comedian's set-piece quip. Cast as oversized, sterile and impersonal, the grocery store is most often viewed as a soulless shopping zone devoid of meaningful human interaction a place embodying little community spirit. Comparing North American grocery shopping to the lively and engaging experience of her fieldwork at a long-established open-air market in her book Porta Palazzo: The Anthropology of an Italian Market, anthropologist Rachel Black laments, "Back home in North America, buying food was always part of domestic drudgery, carried out in giant, impersonal supermarkets; these were solitary outings in which I rarely met or talked to a soul, not even in the long checkout lines." As she makes clear, her engaging ethnography builds on a longstanding strain in sociological and anthropological thought. The modern supermarket remains, in this view, corrosive to social bonds and serves as the locale where the connections between food production and consumption are magically erased a dangerous place where the "delocalization" of the food system undermines sociability and community. Such criticisms are not entirely wrongheaded. And yet, the critique of the modern grocery store as a Janus-faced symbol of American plenty and empty consumerism resonates most loudly in neighborhoods of plenty. Play with the USDA Food Access Research Atlas, which defines food deserts as census tracts where a third or more of the residents live a mile away from the nearest supermarket, and you will quickly learn what a legion of researchers, activists, and food policy wonks have long known. The distribution of the archetypical supermarket marks high points in a depressing topography of want across impressive swaths of urban and rural America. Of course, Houston's pitched food access issues are deeply rooted. The larger story of segregation, institutional racism, educational inequality, and political hostility or neglect, among other issues, tied to the complex development of food deserts, remain beyond the scope of this article. Allyn West / Houston Chronicle Food deserts neither solely develop nor can be magically resolved by the absence or presence of grocery stores inequality remains a broader and more pernicious problem. Nonetheless, the history of the American supermarket is instructive. In the 1930s, midsized chains muscled out small independent stores that had predominated. A&P markets proved an important bellwether; centralizing distribution and employing economies of scale to drive down costs and raise profits. The Great Depression stalled the development of the supermarket, but the end of World War II witnessed the growing dominance of supermarkets that popped up wherever postwar suburbs developed. Todd Romero Independent grocery stores proved the rarest of birds, never fully extinct but increasingly difficult to find. As supermarket chains came to dominate the market, enjoying more than 60 percent market share by the late 1950s, they largely eschewed inner city areas to develop new properties. They pitched their wares at a growing suburban and largely white middle class. In the absence of large supermarkets in underserved areas, an impressive array of smaller independents has emerged to market groceries to Houston's increasingly diverse communities. An estimated 500,000 Houstonians live in food deserts. At the beginning of 2015, the Wulfe & Company Real Estate Survey predicted a banner year for retail development, with the grocery sector leading the charge with 32 new supermarkets planned. Eleven months later, the Houston Chronicle's John Harden reported that only one new grocery store was built in a Houston food desert, a lone outpost of the German discount grocer Aldi. He identified 98 different grocery stores in underserved areas with bigger chains Fiesta (12 stores), H-E-B (7 stores), Kroger (6 stores), Randalls (4 stores), and Wal-Mart (3 stores) only comprising 24 percent of the market for a sizeable chunk of the city's population. A shrewd businessman, John Vuong flourishes in underserved markets often avoided by bigger food retailers. He is a compact, thoughtful man with a warm smile contained by a careful manner. At age 17, he arrived in Houston from South Vietnam to Houston, part of 1978-1982 wave of Vietnamese immigration to the United States. Todd Romero He joined a quickly growing community that would profoundly shape the city's history, as well as the way that Houstonians eat. The city now possesses an abiding love of banh mi, pho, and Viet-Cajun crawfish, among other riches. Well before this fare became commonplace in the city, Vuong found the American food system alien. "It is very different in Vietnam," he explained to me a few years ago. "There are no grocery stores that carry everything like we do here." Often a daily activity, shopping unfolded in open air markets with "two or three hundred vendors," each specializing in a foodstuff. "So, you would have to walk, maybe, the whole open market to get what you need." It was completely different than the way Americans shop. When the market was oriented around Vietnamese housewives shopping for daily family meals, Vuong underscored, freshness proved the supreme consumer value-wise purveyors delivered or failed. Shopping for food in the U.S. seemed a strange exercise. Open air markets were not to be found in 1980s Houston. In fact, Vuong discovered few places of any kind to buy food in his corner of the city. "It was very difficult," he reflected. "I did not have any transportation and I could not afford to live anywhere else but in those underserved areas." Todd Romero Unhappily, he became accustomed to walking a mile or more to the grocery store. "It was hard," he recalled, "and that was when I had an idea of coming back to the underserved areas to offer fresh food." As a young man, Vuong briefly worked in a 7-Eleven convenience store before earning an associate degree in electronics, a field he left after being laid off. Joining other Vietnamese-Americans, he fished the Texas Gulf Coast as a crabber and shrimper for nine years. During the period, he "dreamed of having a grocery store" and carefully "saved up money to start up a business." Vuong secured his first store in 1994, quickly learning that the business proved "very competitive" but developed a successful approach to flourish in underserved areas that the big chains often avoided. Most of his 13 stores follow a similar formula. As he explains, Vuong acquires struggling grocery stores "at a fair price that helps me with startup costs. I can keep my costs lower. That way I don't have to make a lot of sales to stay in business." This approach served as the foundation for a smart business strategy tailoring neighborhood stores to place in interesting ways. Dry goods in the store are more-or-less a break-even proposition. Independents lack the buying power to secure the low prices offered by larger competitors. Allyn West / Houston Chronicle Vuong structures the Pyburn's stores around a unique business model. He provides fresh fruit and vegetables at competitive prices. But the keys to Pyburn's appeal are the hot food counter described above and a meat market that departs from the big retail model by appealing deeply to place. The Pyburn's meat market offers all the basics but specializes in high-quality boudin and other house-made sausages, stuffed pork chops, and other specialty items that speak to the Creole and Cajun foodways of Houstonians with roots in South Louisiana. Thomas Smith, Jr., a senior-citizen and regular at the Missouri City Pyburn's, sits in the blue motorized wheelchair that he uses to visit from the Oak Tree apartment complex across the street. He enthusiastically praises the courteousness of the staff and the quality and variety of food available. "It's like the neighborhood, for me," he explains, when I asked why he comes into the store several times a day. "I love coming in here, meeting people." Like almost everyone I spoke with at different Pyburn's locations, he lingered on the house-made sausages and semi-prepared foods like the stuffed pork chops. When I asked what one item he would encourage a Pyburn's newcomer to try from the hot kitchen, Smith got serious, paused for a moment, and answered in an unquestioning tone: "The oxtails." A South Union store regular, Gertharine Laws, who Rev Jackson affectionately refers to as "City Lady," also highlights the store's friendly service. She's not a neighborhood shopper but hits the hot lunch counter regularly and "loves" the meat market. "You can't get that kind of meat, especially where I live, homemade sausage, boudin, pork chops, all that back there." For Laws, the tastes of South Louisiana make their way back to Humble, Texas, via Vuong's South Union store. She also recommends the oxtails. After Laws departs, Pyburn's regional manager Larry Johnson explains to me some new additions that they are working on for the South Union store's hot food counter. Portability is important, he stresses, for mobile workers seeking lunch. Not everyone can hunker down over a styrofoam box of oxtails, rice, and greens. I spy a couple of hard-hat guys chatting in line and see his point. He highlights a new fish sandwich before lingering on what strikes me as a stroke of genius: oxtail tacos. The very idea of them encompass so much about place and Houston. The migration, loss, opportunity, and reinvention that make the city what it is lead us to a dish that employs a Mexican and soul food grammar to create something new and beautiful. I'll be back for those tacos. Todd Romero is an associate professor of history at the University of Houston, where he studies and teaches early American, public, and food history. This article first appeared in Cite 101: Be Here, which is available in bookstores. Bookmark Gray Matters. This is not your ordinary supermarket food counter. Vaccine advocate Dr. Peter Hotez is accustomed to verbal attacks from anti-vaxxers, but on Tuesday the abuse came from an unexpected source: a Texas legislator. In response to a Hotez tweet that the latest increase in vaccine exemptions in Texas shows its children have been "placed in harm's way for the financial gain of special and outside interest groups," Rep. Jonathan Stickland, R-Bedford, let loose. "You are bought and paid for by the biggest special interest in politics," tweeted Stickland. "Do our state a favor and mind your own business. Parental rights mean more to us than your self enriching 'science.'" On HoustonChronicle.com: Houston mayor proposes plan with 300 layoffs to help solve city's massive budget gap Stay Informed Text CHRON to 77453 to get breaking news alerts by text | Sign up to receive breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. See More Collapse When Hotez replied that he doesn't take a dime from the vaccine industry and that as a Texas pediatrician-scientist who develops neglected disease vaccines for the world's poorest people, it is "most certainly my business," Stickland dug in even deeper. "Make the case for your sorcery to consumers on your own dime," tweeted Stickland. "Like every other business. Quit using the heavy hand of government to make your business profitable through mandates and immunity. It's disgusting." Hotez, a Baylor College of Medicine professor of infectious disease, bowed out at that point. But Stickland continued the onslaught with others happy to engage the fight. In a span of an hour, he tweeted that vaccines are "dangerous," that a doctor concerned about the child's vulnerability to disease is a "brainwashed commie" and that a defender of science is a "typical leftist trying to take credit for something only The Lord God Almighty is in control of." The twitter tussle was triggered by a Houston Chronicle story reporting on the latest and continuing increase in the number of Texans vaccine exemptions by parents claiming a conscientious objection to the state requirement. Todd Ackerman covers medicine for the Houston Chronicle. He can be reached at todd.ackerman@chron.com or twitter.com/ChronMed. Registration is now open for The Health Museums summer Discovery Camps for children. La Tanya Miles, M.Ed. director of education and public programming at The Health Museum, said that the museum is dedicated toward looking at camps that provide a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) background, with an integration of art. The camps meet weekly from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m in June, July and August. Before and after care is also available for an extra fee from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Camps are age appropriate and are available for age groups 5-7, 8-10 and 11-13. We want to create an initial foundation early on for critical thinking fields, exploring career fields in health and medical science and developing a level of career readiness. Creating a diverse work force is essential to solving problems of tomorrow, Miles said. John Arcidiacono, president and Chief Executive Officer of The Health Museum, notes that the camps have been going on for at least the last 20 years. Kids have come to these camps and gone on to do something in those STEM fields. They are learning things that a lot of other summer camps dont provide. We make sure our programing is aligned with health and wellness, Arcidiacono said. Each camp focuses on a different topic. Some of these topics include chemistry, veterinarian science, technology and culinary science. The campers will get to experience a variety of activities. An example of an activity is suturing, where the student gets a silicone pad with a incision, and they learn how to sew it back up. These are middle schoolers who are able to do what the doctor is doing, Arcidiacono said. According to Miles, the campers go on field trips as as they relate to the different topics. In the mini medicine camp, they see a medical simulation at Texas Womens University. The nursing students perform as actors. They simulate different experiences and the campers react in real time. The vet science camps go to the Houston Zoo, Miles said. Miles continued, We try to make it as rich and robust as possible. The campers will also learn about public health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. We have had a lot of positive feedback. We had one lady who brought her children from Chicago. The whole family spent the week here in Houston. That is indicative of the fact that they think it is valuable, but also engaging and fun. We have students that come back multiple times, Arcidiacono said. Arcidiacono and Miles both said that the camps also are a great opportunity for students to combat summer learning loss. The campers also have full access to the current exhibit displays at The Health Museum. Camps are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait lists are available. Registration can be completed on site at the museum or online at www.thehealthmuseum.org/camps. Some of the camps have different prices, but Miles notes that the average price is $300 for the week. The Health Museum also offers camps during winter and spring breaks. rebecca.hazen@chron.com More than 800 students and 100-plus teachers and administrators were hunkered down inside Southside Elementary in Cleveland at the height of heavy rains that flooded the area on Tuesday. The school was expected to hold nearly 200 students overnight, as parents looked for ways to navigate flooded roads, said Cleveland ISD Superintendent Chris Trotter. CISD officials said the rain did not breach the school itself, but several inches of rain inundated the region, forcing the schools closure. The district also cancelled classes on Wednesday. Trotter was inside the school, still in his dress shirt, pants and tie while entertaining students and trying to keep them calm. The flooding was limited to the southside area and Plum Grove, not in the city of Cleveland proper, he said. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox The school, which normally holds approximately 1,000 elementary-aged students, became the epicenter for students across the district who couldnt get home. As the rain kept coming (this afternoon), we delayed elementary buses from hitting their routes, but most of the secondary students were able to get out, he said. Trotter, in only his fifth day at the helm of the district, said they were always going to err on the side of caution. Safety is always going to be first on my mind, he stressed. While the flooding increased, students continued to hunker down until parents could arrive to pick them up and navigate their way back home. We still have about 200 students we will take care of tonight. Were working with local agencies, and well have a sleepover with about 200 kids. Hopefully that number will decrease as parents are able to get here to pick their children up, he said. RELATED: Thunderstorms bring flooding, water rescues and power outages to Houston area The new superintendent praised the teachers and staff for their teamwork. Im very proud of the staff, and the students have been cooperative, he said. I couldnt have asked for more as a new superintendent. Around 3:30 p.m., the floods began. All but two buses of secondary students were able to navigate the roads. Those two buses were able to find alternate routes to get all but about two dozen pupils home. They were taken to Southside Elementary to ride out the storm until parents arrived. Northside Elementary parents were able to get their students quickly since there was little flooding there, and Eastside Elementary students were mostly gone by 5:30 p.m. Local businesses pitched in with pizza from Pizza Hut and Little Caesars, Trotter said. The food service folks came up and made chicken nuggets and French fries for the little guys. Outside of a few leaks in the roof, Trotter said the districts facilities havent had much damage. To keep the students calm, the elementary kids were allowed to stay in their home room with their teacher. The kids were awesome. They were listening to their music, texting their friends, he said about the secondary students. They played cards, dominoes and video games on their phones. The elementary kids thought it was a night party at school, he laughed. Trotter said they have canceled all classes for Wednesday for student safety. With the road closures around the county, we wanted to make sure that our students and staff would be safe to return, he said. dtaylor@hcnonline.com A 25-year-old former Katy ISD employee accused of sending sexually explicit photos and videos of herself to a student using Snapchat is being allowed to return home where three minors reside after a Harris County judge amended the conditions of her bond, officials said Tuesday. Kelsie Rochelle Koepke of Katy appeared in court Tuesday for her arraignment on charges of improper relationship with a student and online solicitation of a minor. While her arraignment was reset to June, the judge amended her bond conditions after she requested that she be allowed to move back in with her daughter, mother, stepfather and 13-year-old twin stepbrothers, court records show. However, Koepke is still not allowed to be around other children, said Steve Walsh, an assistant district attorney whos prosecuting the case. She had been living with other family members since her initial court appearance on March 20. Her defense attorney Ned Barnett argued in a motion to the court that Koepke who has not had any violations while out on bond and who has always lived at the residence with her daughter and two stepbrothers be supervised by an adult when her two 13-year-old stepbrothers are in the home, records show. RELATED: Katy ISD staff member accused of sending nude photos to student In March, a judge ordered Koepke to not have any contact with anyone under the age of 17 after detectives said they discovered she had been having an improper relationship with a Katy ISD student. Koepke, who was released on a $15,000 bond, allegedly sent nude photos of herself to a 15-year-old male student at Paetow High School using Snapchat with the username of Momma K. Paetow High School administrators told Katy ISD police about the alleged affair, records show. Koepke is accused of sending nude images of her breasts and two videos of herself masturbating, records show. Detectives learned that Koepke had met the student a few weeks before a Homecoming event, where she told the student to not save any of their Snapchat conversations, records show. She later apologized to the student but continued to send photos, court documents show. NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. Koepke told investigators she thought she was sending the nude photos to someone else and not the student. When she found out she was sending the photos to a student, she didnt delete him because she wanted keep the peace, records show. Paetow High School Principal Mindy Dickerson sent a letter out to parents advising them of the situation. But please be assured that the district takes this allegation very seriously and is fully cooperating with law enforcement, she said. She was fired from her job at Katy ISD. As part of the conditions of her bond, Koepke is not allowed to contact the high school student whom she is alleged to have had a relationship with, use computer equipment, including a cellphone, access pornography, use alcohol or narcotics and she is not allowed within 1,000 feet of children, records show. Any violation could cost her $500, six months in jail or revocation of her bond. Koepke is expected back in court on June 20. michelle.iracheta@chron.com Melanie Royo is among more than 80 people who attended the April 30 Texas Department of Transportation open house on proposed plans to widen FM 529 between the Grand Parkway and FM 362. Something has to be done, she said about the traffic. The former Houston and Katy resident moved about a year ago to the nearby Elyson subdivision. Gilberto Royo said widening the road to six lanes would cause an adverse impact on development on either side. That led him to wonder aloud if developers were aware of the states plans to widen the road. The state plan calls for widening the two-lane FM 529 to six lanes with an 18-foot raised median between Texas 99 and Katy Hockley Cut Off Road. Between Katy Hockley Cut Off Road and FM 362, the road would be widened from its current two lanes to four. The project includes 12-foot outside shoulders, sidewalks on both sides of the road between Texas 99 and FM 362 with turn lanes at intersections and median openings at specified locations. People have until May 15 to comment on the project to be a part of the official meeting record. People can email hou-piowebmail@txdot.gov to comment. Comments also may be mailed to TxDOT Houston District, Director of Project Development, Texas Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 1386, Houston, Texas 77251-1386. People who attended the hearing at the Paetow High School Ninth-Grade cafeteria, received a handout that answered why the 12-mile, $120 million project is proposed. There are two main reasons given: An evaluation of crash rates on FM 529 indicated that these rates from years 2014 to 2017 were higher than the statewide annual averages, indicating potentially unsafe travel conditions. The existing capacity is inadequate to meet future year (2045) traffic volumes, resulting in increased congestion and reduced mobility. Prior to the meeting, Emily Black, a TxDOT public information officer, said Widening from two to four lanes between SH 99 and Katy Hockley Cut Off Road would not be adequate to accommodate the projected traffic volumes for the year 2038 and 2045. The projected Average Daily Traffic(ADT) for the year 2038 is 52,450 and projected ADT for the year 2045 is 59,800. Black said the state started studying the road-widening project in July 2018. The project timeline includes reviewing and considering public comments this spring. Another public hearing could be held in the fall of 2020 after proposed alternatives are recommended and an environmental analysis is finalized. Construction timing is dependent upon financing, said Black, and right now the project is unfunded. karen.zurawski@chron.com Heavy storms and rain caused severe flooding across the Houston area, with areas near Kingwood hit the hardest. Some Kingwood area students and business owners were stranded Tuesday night during the storm. An estimated 400 homes flooded in Kingwood, KHOU reported. A visitor originally from far away was spotted by a passerby and deputies from Precinct 5 Constable Ted Heaps Office helped rescue the diminutive creature from the side of a busy Houston road. According to a news release from Heaps Office, deputies were alerted about an unusual animal on the side of the Grand Parkway near West Road in northwest Harris County. The animal turned out to a Patagonian mara also known as a Dillaby which had been lost from a Katy-area home. The pet had been missing for two days. The weapons North Korea launched over the weekend traveled into the stratosphere and flew at a distance long enough to strike deep into South Korean territory, according to a South Korean assessment. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff did not indicate what was fired off of North Korea's east coast on Saturday and into the sea, but experts believe at least one ballistic missile was launched and the testing may indicate that North Korea has improved its capabilities to strike the South. The multiple short-range projectiles were fired on Saturday from 9:06 a.m. to 10:55 a.m. and reached altitudes of between 20-60 kilometers (12-37 miles). They covered a distance of about 70-240 kilometers, Kim Joon Rak, a spokesman for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters at a briefing. That means the weapons could strike a region stretching from the Seoul area -- accounting for about half of the country's population -- to the central city of Daejeon. Neither the U.S. nor South Korea have confirmed North Korea fired a ballistic missile, which would be in violation of international agreements and complicate their current detente with Pyongyang. Rather than condemn the move, U.S. and South Korean officials played down the threat, a move analysts said could keep the door open for nuclear negotiations but also signal to Kim Jong Un that he has the green light to do more short-range testing. South Korean President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Donald Trump spoke on Tuesday about "recent developments" with North Korea, according to a statement from the White House that didn't give additional details. Moon's office said the two leaders agreed that their reactions to the May 4 launches were "effective." The U.S. Forces in Korea said in a statement the "combined defense posture remains profoundly capable of safeguarding the security and stability of the Republic of Korea." The weapons test indicates that North Korea may be looking to thwart U.S. missile interceptors, according to Kim Ki-ho, a defense professor at Kyonggi University in Seoul and former army colonel. The U.S. operates a system known as the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, also called THAAD, which can intercept missiles flying at an altitude of 40 kilometers or more. Low-altitude missiles can be defended by the Patriot missile defense system. The latest North Korean weapons appeared to fly "too low to be intercepted by the THAAD" and "too fast" to be intercepted by the Patriot system, he said. "The latest tactical guided weapons could incapacitate those system." When asked about the interceptor-evasion possibility, South Korea's defense ministry said separately in a statement that "comprehensive reviews are underway, including such matters." Based on a photo Pyongyang released in its state media, a satellite image from Planet Labs Inc. showing what appeared to be a single missile contrail at the exercise site and the missile's trajectory, North Korea appears to have fired a new solid-fuel ballistic missile similar to a Russian Iskander, said Melissa Hanham, a non-proliferation expert and director of the One Earth Future Foundation's Datayo Project. North Korea had unveiled a similar weapon, which could be stored while fueled, deployed and fired with less detection time, during a military parade in February 2018. The last time North Korea fired a ballistic missile was in November 2017, at the height of tensions with the U.S. Houston mayoral candidate and attorney Tony Buzbee has filed a lawsuit on behalf of two companies that allege they were fraudulently listed as subcontractors by two companies that later secured millions of dollars for Hurricane Harvey relief work from the city of Houston. Filed Tuesday in Harris County, the action alleges that Blessed Enterprises and A-Status Construction LLC were unaware that they were listed as minority-owned subcontractors by Burghli Investments and Tegrity Houston LLC, which each received contracts worth as much as $66 million from the city to help rebuild or rehabilitate homes affected by the storm. They allege that the companies committed fraud, misappropriation and implied breach of contract in order to meet diversity goals and obtain contracts that were approved by City Council. The owners of the companies represented by Buzbee said they learned they were listed on the bids through a website run by the Office of Business of Opportunity, which monitors the program. Requests for comment from the companies listed as defendants in the suit were not returned late Tuesday afternoon. The citys Office of Business Opportunity did not return requests for comment or for copies of the companies bids. Buzbee and mayoral candidate Bill King have both made so-called pay-to-play issues focal points of their challenges to Mayor Sylvester Turner, who they allege has given city contracts to companies that also donate to his campaign. King last week criticized Turner for accepting campaign cash from a strip club owner, and Buzbee has accused the mayor of using billboards for the AlertHouston! campaign to help his election chances. At a Tuesday press conference, Buzbee said he filed the lawsuit out of concern for minority-owned businesses that routinely are shut out of the bid process and never get a piece of the pie. The companies he represents are both certified for business with the city, but say they have never received a contract. They say the citys bid process is unfair, and that the allegedly fraudulent use of their names could damage their reputations and, thus, their ability to get future contracts. I worked hard to get where I am, A-Status Construction owner Raquel Boujourne said I find it extremely unfair to see these same companies be awarded contract after contract while I am over here working my butt off Businesses like ours, the little guys, are taken advantage of and the city does not lift a finger to do anything about it. It is a huge problem. Buzbee also claimed that Burghli Investments received business with the city because it gave campaign contributions to Turner, despite having been sued multiple times for tax delinquency. The citys bidding process, Buzbee said, is not about who you are, its about who you know. Turner called the allegations ludicrous and vague. Mayor Turner has received no donation from the owner of Tegrity, a spokesperson for his re-election campaign said in a statement. He received one donation from Deanna Burghli of $2,000 in December 2015 before he was elected mayor. In that same month, Mr. Buzbee and his wife both maxed out donations to Mr. Turner of $5,000 each, along with donations from his law firm staff. This again shows Mr. Buzbee will say, do and spend anything to be elected mayor. Buzbee provided a copy of Burghlis contract that lists Blessed Enterprises as a subcontractor. The contract was approved on Jan. 30, alotting to the company $66 million in federal grant funds that were given to the city by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The city is supposed to receive more than $1 billion for Harvey recovery from HUD via the Texas General Land Office, though the arrival of that money was repeatedly delayed because of, among other things, disputes between the GLO and city officials over control of local mitigation projects. In February, HUD Secretary Ben Carson said that it could take until May for Texas to receive the $4 billion in relief funds approved by Congress. He said that was because his agency was still working on the rules for the programs. Days later, Houston received another $100 million in grants for five programs, including one that reimburses homeowners for repairs theyve done on their homes. The delays have left in limbo thousands of Houstonians who are still trying to recover from the storm. Editors note: An earlier version of the story incorrectly stated the prime contractors already had been paid $66 million for work rebuilding or rehabilitating homes damaged by Hurricane Harvey. Burghli Investments and Tegrity Houston LLC have been awarded contracts worth as much as $66 million, but they have not begun the work or been paid anything, according to the city. robert.downen@chron.com The rejection of bond propositions in two fast-growing school districts north of Houston may reflect increased voter skepticism and the influence of anti-tax groups, but most districts across the state continue to enjoy public support for funding of new schools and facilities, analysts said. Almost 55 percent of Conroe ISD voters on Saturday opposed an $807 million bond proposal intended to build new schools, manage growth and upgrade security the first bond rejection in the districts history. In Cleveland ISD, where an influx of 1,000 new students this year led to more than $3 million in portable building costs, 53 percent of voters rejected a $250 million bond package. Leaders of both school districts said they would reassess their needs and go back to voters with new bond proposals to pay for essential facilities and upgrades. Conroe ISD might hold another bond election as soon as November, board president Datren Williams said. We have certain needs, and the district is growing, he said. We cant stop that. Those needs are there, and we have to prioritize and make tough decisions. Superintendent Chris Trotter said officials in Cleveland ISD, the states second fastest-growing school district, will be strategic as they explore another bond package. The proposal defeated Saturday was to renovate an elementary school and add a fifth elementary and a second junior high. Were not just going to rush into something, Trotter said. Tracy Ginsburg, executive director of the Texas Association of School Business Officials, said the Conroe and Cleveland outcomes were not typical. While taxpayers are more skeptical today about how their money is being used, many understand that officials have to focus on public education and facilities needs, Ginsburg said. About 71 percent of the bond election referendums passed (statewide in this election). Thats pretty consistent with past experience, Ginsburg said. Joe Smith, a retired Hudson ISD superintendent and creator of TexasISD.com, a website that aggregates news on school districts across the state, said he was surprised at the failure of the Conroe bond proposal. He learned that taxpayers had questioned the motivation for the bond funds, which in his experience is difficult to overcome. Conroe ISD is a model district. But they just could not and never did get control of the conversation, Smith said. The people who were against raising taxes controlled the conversation. Bill OSullivan, the treasurer of the Texas Patriots PAC based in Montgomery County, said this was the first time the group urged voters to vote against a Conroe school bond. He argued that many items included in the bond program, such as replacing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems or roofs, should have been funded through maintenance and operations budgets rather than bond debt. Conroe ISD Superintendent Curtis Null said the district would like to increase its annual maintenance budget, now about $50 million, but doing so is a challenge because of the districts low tax rate. Ginsburg said maintenance items such as roofs, heating and air conditioning equipment are routinely included in bond issues. Cindy Gaskill, another member of the Texas Patriots PAC, said opponents also believed the bond proposal was put forward too hurriedly. I believe the bond was rushed to the ballot with the expectation that few people would know to vote in a May election, resulting in an easy approval of the referendum. Voters we spoke to while block-walking were largely unaware there was an election, Gaskill said. In the short term, Null said, the Conroe school board will consider cost-saving measures such as reviewing staffing formulas or rezoning students. Next year, well have over 64,000 students show up to school on the first day, and we will be there to meet those needs. The board will need to evaluate the implications of meeting those needs, Null said. Cleveland ISD will have to find creative solutions for overcrowding, Trotter said. Were going to provide a good education for every kid, every day, he said. As far as teachers, we do have some more portables coming. Our teachers are going to take care of kids. We have programs and curriculum and well start as a new day next week. Reporter Marcus Gutierrez contributed to this story. jane.stueckemann@chron.com Federal education officials are touring Texas this week, with stops in Houston and Spring Branch ISDs, to monitor the states efforts to improve delivery of special education accommodations to students previously deprived services. The oversight follows a federal inquiry, prompted by a series of Houston Chronicle articles, that found the Texas Education Agency had set what amounted to an 8.5 percent cap on the percentage of students receiving special education services. The national average is about 13 percent. U.S. Department of Education staffers stopped in Spring Branch for a day-long visit Tuesday, with plans for a similar tour through Houston ISD Wednesday. Federal officials are expected to make six stops stretching from Lubbock to Laredo, with no public events planned. The tour long has been expected, dating back to an October 2018 notice sent to the TEA. (The Office of Special Education Programs) sought to identify a regionally diverse set of ISDs and to travel to locations visited previously, as well as new regions in the state, a U.S. Department of Education spokesman said in a statement. The visit represents an opportunity for OSEP to review TEA activities in support of its corrective action plan. The TEA has committed to spending an estimated $212 million over five years to increase school-level monitoring of special education service delivery, train teachers and staff, and identify students who have not received legally-obligated accommodations. The state also is expected to need an additional $3.2 billion over the next three years to pay for additional services provided to students previously denied special education benefits. (Education) Commissioner Mike Morath remains confident that Texas school districts are aware of their obligations to identify, evaluate and provide special education services to students with disabilities, the agency said in a statement. HISD administrators said they expect to host federal officials for a full-day visit Wednesday, intending to fully comply with requests for records and interviews. Education Department staffers toured HISD in 2017 to review compliance with special education laws. Although HISD has not been under direct federal scrutiny, a third-party review found the district should better identify students needing special education services, increase staff training and implement greater accountability for principals overseeing the delivery of services. HISD officials have implemented a three-year plan for bolstering special education, and the districts school board approved an additional $13.5 million for special education and dyslexia services in 2018-19. Federal officials randomly chose Spring Branch ISD for review. About 7.7% of the districts students received special education supports in 2017-18, below the 9.1% state average. SBISD views this visit as another opportunity to share the good work happening in our district and to highlight the work of our great teachers and leaders, district officials said in a statement. jacob.carpenter@chron.com A deluge of rain and lightning brought the desperate hunt for a missing 4-year-old girl to an abrupt end Tuesday afternoon as volunteer search crews inched their way closer to where the childs stepfather lives. Texas Equusearch founder Tim Miller dispatched more than two dozen people to the Alief area near Kirkwood Road and Bissonnet Street to find signs of little Maleah Davis, who vanished as early as Friday night presumably while she and her stepfather, Darion Vence, were driving to Bush Intercontinental Airport to pick up the childs mother, according to Houston Police Department officials. The searchers found nothing after spending Monday and Tuesday morning combing an area around Interstate 69 and Greens Road in north Houston where Vence told authorities he was attacked by three men who abducted the girl, Miller said. With HPDs blessing, Miller moved his command post to a business strip near Vences apartment, he said. I may have questioned the story about the abduction happening up there and brought back down to this area, Miller said. The story seems kind of far-fetched in a way. The souring weather left Miller short on help and time. Around 3 p.m., he retreated to his command post to prepare for Wednesdays search. There, as rain pelted his trailer and thunder rumbled overhead, he recounted a phone call he had with HPD investigators. With the information he gave you, weve cleared everything up there and I want to go ahead and move down closer to the apartment, is what Miller said he told the investigator. He says, I totally agree, Miller said. Were all in agreement. HPD officials have maintained since Sunday that Vence is not a suspect or person of interest. The investigation into the whereabouts of missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis remains on-going. HPD customarily doesn't identify persons of interest or suspects unless charges are filed, a police official on Tuesday tweeted. The abduction incident is alleged to have started around 9 p.m. Friday, according to the stepfather, when he purportedly was attacked after pulling over to check on a possible flat tire. He was knocked unconscious and he claims to have blacked out until around 6 p.m. Saturday. When he came to, he was in Sugar Land with his 1-year-old son and Maleah was gone. Four hours later, he sought medical attention and reported the girl missing. Brittany Bowens, Maleahs mother, had returned to Houston on Friday night. She could not be reached for comment. In an attempt to piece together Vences weekend whereabouts, police have shared images of Vence with a wound to his head, a vehicle similar to the blue Chevrolet pickup truck the suspects were driving and Bowens car, which has since been reported stolen. Maleahs disappearance prompted an Amber Alert on Sunday morning. Im certainly not a detective, but when you work so many of these cases over the years you just see something that doesnt look right, said Miller, who started Texas Equusearch in 2000. Sgt. Mark Holbrook has said that Maleah has undergone several brain surgeries in the past two months because of a head injury. She is in need of medical care, the investigator said. The injury was reported to Child Protective Services in August because it was initially thought to have been caused by possible physical abuse, officials said. The report prompted caseworkers to take custody of Maleah and her two siblings. The children were returned to the family in February under the condition that caseworkers continue to monitor them. Holbrook has also said that the cause of Maleahs head injury was "not something violent." nicole.hensley@chron.com Texas lawmakers are responding to last years mass shooting at Santa Fe High School by advancing bills to increase the number of armed school staff, require campus emergency response plans and provide more mental health resources to students. The most divisive proposals would increase the number of armed school marshals and remove requirements that their guns remain in storage legislation that has been passed by the Texas Senate and awaits key votes in the House. A sweeping school safety-related measure, Senate Bill 11, would require emergency response training for district staff, including substitute teachers, establish threat assessment teams to help identify potentially violent students and up the number of mental health professionals in schools. That bill, which has bipartisan support, passed out of the Senate last week and was heard in the House Public Education Committee Tuesday, though members did not take a vote. Many elements of the bill were the product of Gov. Greg Abbotts roundtable discussions with parents, students, educators, law enforcement and mental health experts on school safety last May, after a student armed with a pistol and a shotgun killed 10 people at Santa Fe high. Abbott made school safety one of his top priorities this session. No student should be afraid to go to school. No parent should be fearful when dropping their child off at school, Abbott said. We must do all we can to make our schools safer. A few parents testified against the bill Tuesday who said they worried that threat assessments would violate families privacy and unfairly flag students who simply had an outburst or a bad day. They asked lawmakers to delay a school safety bill until next session. For subscribers: Substitute teacher wounded in Santa Fe High shooting pushes for more training, resources for peers Committee chair Rep. Dan Huberty, R-Houston, scoffed at those requests, calling them alarming and insanity, and underlined the Houses support for the bill. Im just telling people in the audience were going to be passing a school safety bill, Huberty said, adding that there has been plenty of time for public comment already. He recommended that the public send any suggestions for amendments to legislators right away. Some of the most contentious discussions have centered on school marshals. The marshal program, established in 2013 after the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., allows districts to arm and train school employees to respond to an active shooter. Texas had less than 40 certified school marshals across more than 1,000 public school districts in early 2018. Applications rose sharply after the Santa Fe shooting and the number of school marshals is now close to 200. Marshals receive 80 hours of training, including practice in "live shooter" scenarios. State Rep. Cole Hefners House Bill 1387 would eliminate the cap on the number of marshals a district can appoint to each school. The bill passed in the House on Wednesday but not without fervent debate. Any time that we can give local school districts an extra tool in their toolbox to increase school safety, to increase the use of things that will make our kids safer, we ought to give them that freedom to do so, said Hefner, R-Mt. Pleasant. For subscribers: Santa Fe shooting prompts jump in number of Texas school marshals, who can carry guns on campus Some lawmakers, however, raised concerns that increasing the number of armed marshals in Texas schools could result in more mishandled guns on campus. State Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, said there have been 65 mishandled guns in schools in the last five years, including three incidents in Texas, according to the Giffords Law Center. To my knowledge, this has not happened by one of our school marshals, Hefner said. What we do know is weve had school shootings in our state and in other states, and I think this is an important tool for us to be able to defend our students. In Texas, the misplaced guns on campus belonged to a school superintendent, a police officer assigned to a high school and a principal, according to the Center. Another bill that would also eliminate the cap on the number of marshals passed the Senate in 20-10 vote on April 8 and now awaits a hearing in the House Committee on Public Education. With the end of the session less than three weeks away, lawmakers have until May 18 to pass the bill out of committee. Texas Take: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox Senate Bill 406 by state Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, would allow school marshals to carry a concealed handgun instead of being required to keep them locked up. That measure passed the Senate 28-3 on April 3 and has not yet passed out of the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety. Hefner said his bill underscores what he sees as a general rule: the only way a school shooter has been stopped is usually with another person with a firearm. When you live in rural parts of Texas, sometimes law enforcement can be several minutes away, Hefner said. Thats why we want to have someone readily accessible and trained in responding to one of these instances, and I think this bill accomplishes that. Gun violence prevention activists say more guns is not the answer. Theres just such a recipe for all grades, K-12, of firearms dropping, of a student getting hold of them as a joke or intentionally to do harm, said Gyl Swizter, executive director of Texas Gun Sense. We need to think prevention, and we need to think other than firearms. The Associated Press contributed to this report. AUSTIN San Antonio wouldnt be able to relocate the Cenotaph within Alamo Plaza under a sweeping bill approved by the Senate on Tuesday that would also make it harder to take down historic and Confederate monuments across Texas. Moving the 1930s Cenotaph that honors Alamo defenders is among the most contentious parts of a master plan that seeks to close the plaza to traffic, restore the historic church and open a new museum. Opponents of the Cenotaphs relocation argue its akin to digging up a grave, while proponents say it will be moved to a more prominent location in the plaza so the original battlefield can be restored. Sen. Brandon Creighton, a Conroe Republican who authored the bill, said his intention is to protect the Cenotaph. But Sen. Jose Menendez, D-San Antonio, said the bill could undo millions of dollars in investments and efforts to move the concrete and marble Cenotaph 500 feet, to a more prominent place. Texas Take: Get the latest news on Texas politics sent directly to your inbox every weekday As for any future attempts to remove historic monuments, a supermajority of the city council, county commissioners court or state Legislature would be needed. The change could hinder efforts to strip schools, streets and public parks of names and artwork glorifying the Confederacy a movement that accelerated in Texas after a woman was killed during racially charged protests in Charlottesville over a statue of Robert E. Lee. The Senate gave the bill initial approval in vote of 19 -12, despite fierce objections from Democrats. There was a time I would go to jail for challenging you, as I am challenging you today, Sen. Borris Miles, a Houston Democrat who is black, said to Crieghton, who is white. That's not something we should be proud of. Creighton said his bill sets up a process to ensure history isnt erased. There are people and events throughout our states rich history that deserve to be celebrated, and there are also people and events that should be condemned, but either way, as Texans, we should not hide from our history, he said in a statement. While it is an emotional issue, I truly believe that all of our history, the good and the bad, are worthy of study and education. The bill includes provisions specific to the Cenotaph, saying that no entity may alter, remove, or relocate the Alamo Cenotaph from the location where the Cenotaph was first placed following its completion. The bill also addresses the concerns of those who have objected to removing Confederate monuments, which are viewed by many as symbols of racism. After the San Antonio City Council voted to remove a Confederate monument from Travis Park in 2017, a local chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy took legal action. The statue, removed in the middle of the night, has been in an undisclosed location for months. It was more than a year of debate before the states preservation board, headed by Gov. Greg Abbott, voted to remove a Confederate plaque in the Capitol that long angered opponents for its inaccurate claim that slavery wasnt an underlying cause of the Civil War. Going forward, monuments on state land that are over 25 years old would require a two-thirds vote by the Legislature for any alterations. The high threshold usually reserved for passing constitutional amendments is greater than the simple majority needed to pass most bills. Similarly, changes made to old monuments on city or county land would require a supermajority of the governing body. Newer monuments could be removed with a simple majority vote in most cases. Beyond physical statues, the sweeping bill also applies to portraits, symbols and names of streets, buildings, bridges and parks. Violations of the provision could prompt steep financial penalties that start at $1,000, but quickly swell to over $25,000 a day. It remains to be seen whether the bill will gain traction in the Republican-led House. Some members have proposed their own bills aimed at blocking the Cenotaph relocation or stopping the removal of historic monuments. Earlier this year, a conservative group bought thousands of dollars worth of radio ads in San Antonio and Houston urging Republican leaders to back legislation that would stop local governments from removing historic monuments. One targeted Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, urging voters to contact the Republican and tell him its time to be the conservative he campaigned to be. Patricks office didnt respond to the ad, but told a local television station at the time: We do nothing for anyone by tearing down our past. Allie Morris covers politics and policy in Austin. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | amorris@express-news.net | Twitter: @MorrisReports NASA officials still have not provided Congress a plan or budget proposal that would allow for a return to the moon four years early -- even though the Trump administration directed the agency to do so in March. Congressional leaders are getting anxious. "We're flying blind," U.S. Rep. Kendra Horn, an Oklahoma Democrat, said during a hearing of a subcommittee of the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology. "The lack of planning evident so far is no way to run a human exploration program." She added that the new target date "left NASA scrambling to develop a plan and hastening to pull together a budget amendment that still hasn't been delivered." But the answer from NASA still is the same: The proposal isn't ready. And it won't be for "several weeks," said Bill Gerstenmaier, the agency's associate administrator for human exploration and operations. "We recognize this is a challenge and we need a really solid plan," he said. Though no official plan has been released, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine has shared details in recent weeks about how he thinks the agency would get to the moon four years early. The plan would include help from international and commercial partners, as well as the use of a mini-space station that NASA wants to build orbiting the moon and the agency's Orion spacecraft-Space Launch System rocket duo. Agency officials say the rocket is vital for the moon 2024 plan, but it has experienced significant delays since Boeing started building it in 2012. Last week, Gerstenmaier admitted that it likely wouldn't be ready for a launch without humans around the the moon until 2021, even though NASA had been hoping it would happen in 2020. Still, Gerstenmaier said he believes a 2024 human lunar landing is doable -- assuming the agency get the necessary support. "The question is, can we get through the political process? Can we get the funding?" he asked. That will depend on the reason for the accelerated timeline, said U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, from Texas -- and it needs to be a good one. "NASA has provided no specifics," Johnson said. "I hope that when NASA delivers a plan, it will also provide a compelling rationale for this proposed crash program." Alex Stuckey writes about NASA and science for the Houston Chronicle. You can reach her at alex.stuckey@chron.com or Twitter.com/alexdstuckey. Until recently, an end to decades of hostilities between the United States and the Caribbean island of Cuba appeared imminent, and prospects for Texas reaping enormous benefits from that thawing of tensions held great promise. Texas farmers were eagerly anticipating the possibility of increasing exports of poultry, corn, soybeans, wheat and rice to the island nation. Nonstop flights between Bush Intercontinental Airport and Havana were available to the public before the end of 2016, and the U.S. and Cuban flags were flying atop reopened embassies in Havana and Washington after full diplomatic ties were restored for the first time in 50 years. Gov. Greg Abbott visited Cuba in late 2015, when he touted Texas abundance of easily available exports to Cuba. Months later, a delegation from Houston led by Mayor Sylvester Turner and local corporate leaders deepened local ties to Cuba. That 2016 trip also set the stage to explore opportunities in such areas as health care, energy, trade and the arts and played a part in Houston securing next years World Petroleum Congress. The death of Fidel Castro in November 2016 only seemed to cement expectations that a new, more cooperative future lay ahead. But just three years later, all that promise appears stalled and Texas is poorer for it. Better relations with Cuba had been a hallmark of President Obamas administration, perhaps one reason they have found no ally in his successor, President Trump. On April 17, Trumps National Security Adviser John Bolton announced the U.S. will impose new sanctions and other punitive measures on Cuba and Venezuela, seeking to ratchet up U.S. pressure on Havana to end its support for Venezuelas discredited socialist president, Nicolas Maduro. The timing of Boltons announcement wasnt happenstance. It was made on the 58th anniversary of the disastrous CIA-sponsored Bay of Pigs invasion and clearly served as a nod to those anti-Castro hardliners and Trump supporters in South Florida. The new sanctions include restrictions on non-family travel to Cuba, reductions in remittances to Cuba to $1,000 per person per quarter, and authorized Cuban-Americans and other U.S. citizens to sue companies doing business in Cuba over property confiscated after the 1959 revolution. Last week, Exxon Mobil filed a lawsuit against Cubas national oil company seeking compensation for the value of assets seized when the firm was known as Standard Oil. For Texas farmers, its a matter of working under current rules of trade while maintaining relationships. We dont expect any movement on Cuba under the current administration, Dwight Roberts, president and CEO of the U.S. Rice Producers Association, told the editorial board. He described the recent developments as depressing. U.S. companies exported close to $230 million worth of agricultural goods to Cuba in 2018, down an estimated 18 percent from the year before, according to Cuba Standard, an independent news site covering political and economic news in Cuba. Felix Chevalier, a Houston lawyer of Cuban descent who represents U.S. firms internationally, told the editorial board that he remains hopeful. Despite the current circumstances, its inevitable the U.S. and Cuba will normalize relations and Houston is well positioned to benefit. Its a matter of time before the politics become current with the perspective of the majority of Americans, Cubans and the business community. Cubas brand of governing has been a failure. Shortages of food and electricity are the norm, and the government routinely abuses human rights and stifles dissent. Its people deserve liberty. Unfortunately, new sanctions on travel wont help address any of that. They will punish Cuban entrepreneurs, since fewer Americans will be patronizing their restaurants and shops. A reduction in remittances will directly impact Cubans who rely on family in the U.S. for support. That doesnt seem like a strategy to win the hearts of the Cuban people, or to secure for U.S. exporters the valuable market the nation could become. As the Trump administration tightens the screws on Cuba, we urge U.S. Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz as well as other members of the Texas congressional delegation and the Texas Legislature to raise their voices to remind the president that ties to Cuba, especially in trade, offer enormous opportunities for Texas. The sooner we strengthen those ties, the better. The Texas Legislature is considering multiple bills right now that threaten the LBGT community. In particular, as a nurse and a transgender man, I am concerned about HB 3172, which would prevent the government from taking any action against people who discriminate against LGBT people because of a sincerely held religious belief, such as beliefs on marriage. The bill would affect health care facilities and private practice physicians. In other words, if a medical professional refused to treat me, the state wouldnt take away their license. When I say that I am a transgender man, I mean that when I was born, the doctors told my parents I was female, but since 2005, I have had the words to be able to express that I am male. I have been living as male publicly for three and a half years. I live in Amarillo which, by the standards of the Texas Panhandle, is a big city. In smaller communities and rural areas, theres often only one hospital and one physician. If HB 3172 passes, any and all health care professionals could refuse to care for me or any other LGBT person, even in a medical emergency such as a heart attack or stroke. To state the obvious: If I have to travel hours to reach a hospital that will even treat me, my odds of dying are much greater. Health care is not something that I take lightly. When I signed up to be a nurse, I signed up to do a hard job. Sometimes I take care of people that I dont want to. It is part of health care workers calling. Everyone deserves to be taken care of. Nobody deserves to be cast aside just because of who they are. This bill shouldnt even be a debate. We are talking about people. Living, breathing people who need taken care of. If you dont want to take care of me, you shouldnt be in health care. Erik Trason is a nurse in Amarillo. Bookmark Gray Matters. You're signing up to do a hard job. Correction: An earlier version of this story said that the bill was being considered in the Texas Senate. It is in the House. The photo that got me Tuesday about the shootings in suburban Denver was the one shared by my sister-in-law, who lives in Boulder. It was taken by a bystander and showed a bunch of little kids standing in a line with their hands on their heads. They had just evacuated their charter school where two older students waded into a couple of classes and began firing. One student died and eight classmates were injured. The shooters were arrested with some difficulty. Well soon learn how they came by their handguns, said to be at least two pistols. My guess is they took them from home, since unlike most rifles and shotguns, you cant buy handguns until you are 21. But well know soon. Already the response has been riven by the predictable politics. The left cries out for gun control. The right, including a Columbine survivor who leads the Colorado House, says we need more armed security, check points and hardening of security at schools. I guess barbed wire and patrol dogs will be in the mix soon. Gun control is controversial but it doesnt have to be. We can start some simple things that are true: America has the highest number of shootings in the world. A few years ago, when I was running the stats for a deep look into gun violence in the U.S., we had 33,000 killings from guns, with about 22,000 of those from suicide. That suicide number is especially heartbreaking, because its so preventable. Most of those who attempt suicide and survive dont try again. But to be given that chance to live they have to survive the attempt. When guns are their chosen tool, they rarely do. We also have and this is not even close more guns available than anywhere on the planet. Hundreds of millions of firearms of nearly every description: Were overflowing with pistols, rifles and other firearms. Cant we simply agree that the extraordinarily unusual availability of firearms in America is a contributing factor in the extraordinary high number of gun deaths? Not just mass shootings such as the heartbreaking examples in Colorado and North Carolina this month, but accidents, suicides and more? Once we recognize the two facts are related, cant we agree that, at the very least, some especially risky people ought to have a more difficult time acquiring especially dangerous guns? Thats easy to understand, and should be a beginning point we can all embrace. Whos risky? Well, young peoples brains are not yet fully formed. We could start with them, as some states (like Republican-led Florida) have raised the age for assault-rifle style guns to 21. Thats a start. People with certain criminal histories? People with mental health markers? We do this already in a spotty way, and we know how to do it and still respect due process and fairness. But if were going to harden our security, lets start with enforcing tougher background checks and more widely adopting (as Colorado recently did) red-flag laws. We neednt ban all firearms. Besides, the courts have already ruled that blanket bans on, say, all handguns in a large city violate the Second Amendment. But that has never meant we cant draw up and then enforce sane rules for who can get access to what kinds of guns. Making some people work harder to get certain types of gun by undergoing a more stringent test, or a longer waiting period, for instance only makes sense. The Supreme Court has already ruled that its also perfectly constitutional. Maybe some guns, as already is the case with machines guns, might be best left out of the general population and reserved for commercial venues like shooting ranges? There is room for debate on all of this, and for a smart calculous to determine whos risky, whats especially dangerous, and how to make it less likely that the former has access to the latter. Tuesdays shootings were especially heartbreaking for me because this one felt personal. I spent last week in a houseful of friends that included two delightful twin brothers. Theyre freshmen at a Denver school not far from the shootings occurred Tuesday. The news hit me like a punch in the face. My nieces are college-aged now, but they grew up not far from there, too. So yes, this one seemed more personal. But in America these days, theres nothing special about that. All of us have these kinds of stories. One of the kids who described the scene Tuesday told a reporter that hed never heard a gun shot before so he wasnt sure what was happening. He was 8, I believe. Now hell know just like so many others throughout America. When I was a kid in Kentucky, we all assumed the Soviets would bomb us one day, if for no other reason that because we lived near all that gold in Fort Knox. We had drills at school. Sirens were tested. It was just part of the Cold War atmosphere and it left its marks on all of us. The Cold War ended about the time I left for college. But a whole new fear has grown in the psyches of the kids who followed. Its terrifying. New laws might not have stopped these terrible shootings in Colorado and North Carolina. Not all of them, anyway. There are too many other factors at play in addition to the availability of guns. But they would make those determined to become shooters work a little harder to do so. That will save lives. Not every life, but some, perhaps many. What are we waiting for? Lindenberger is deputy opinion editor at The Houston Chronicle and a member of its editorial board. Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. As an existing print subscriber it is easy to get FREE access to all our online content. When you click get started below it will walk you through creating an online account to attach your print subscription number to. After your account is created it will ask you to either add a subscription for online access or click on the print subscriber button. Click the print subscriber button header and it will open a dropdown, now click on get started. The page will reload and you will be prompted to enter an account number and a zip code. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO USE THE NUMBER OFF OF THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OR ANYTHING AFTER JANUARY 28, 2019 TO GAIN ACCESS! OLD ACCOUNT NUMBERS WILL NOT WORK The account number and zip code are easily available on your most recent issue of the High Plains Journal or Midwest Ag Journal in the address fields as is shown here. Sometimes the account number has extra zero's in front of it, just ignore those. Investment volumes stable in 12-months to Q1 2019 at 23 billion - Investment activity driven by growth in the UK, Spain and Germany European hotel real estate investment volumes reached 23 billion in the year to the end of Q1 2019, according to the latest research from global real estate advisor CBRE. European hotel investment activity in the first quarter of 2019 was driven by continued growth, particularly in the UK, Spain and Germany. UK hotel investment volumes accounted for 35.5% of capital deployed in the country in the 12 months to Q1 2019, reaching 8.2 billion and reflecting a 15.1% year-on-year increase. This growth was largely a result of a particularly strong start to 2019, with Q1 up 24.5% on Q1 2018. Spain remains Europes second largest hotel investment market. Deals amounted to 4.2 billion in the 12-months to Q1 2019, up 17.5% on the previous year. Germany experienced modest growth in hotel deal volumes. Over the last 12-months, investment reached 3.9bn, up 7.1% on the preceding 12 months and representing 17.0% of total European hotel investment. Hotel investment in France amounted to 1.3 billion through the last 12-months. While this represented a decline of 6.0% year-on-year, the performance elevated France to Europes fourth largest market. Other notable risers include the Czech Republic (560.7%), and Switzerland (208.9%). Paul Collins, Head of Hotel Investment Properties UK & Ireland CBRE, commented: Following a record year for hotel investment, 2019 is off to a strong start. Growth, in key European markets such as the UK and Spain, is a testament to the strength of the hotel sector and demonstrates continued demand for alternative investments and operational real estate. A significant amount of investment has come from Israeli and Asian capital which is a trend that we have seen over the past 12 months and one we anticipate to continue. Hotel yields remained flat across the majority of European markets in the first quarter of 2019 reflecting steady investor demand. Exceptions to this trend were in Iberia, Amsterdam and Helsinki, where an increase in investor demand resulted in falling yields for hotels operated under operational lease agreements. Click here to download the report. Daily News Delivery Join your colleagues and stay up to date on the latest all industry news and trends. Subscribe 2021 Hospitality Trends Translations: Lente croissance du trafic passagers due aux conges de Paques tardifs (pdf) La demanda de pasajeros aereos se ralentiza en marzo por la Pascua tardia (pdf) Aumento da demanda de passageiros em marco desacelera no feriado de Pascoa (pdf) 3 (pdf) (pdf) Geneva - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced global passenger traffic results for March 2019 showing that demand (measured in revenue passenger kilometers, or RPKs) rose 3.1%, compared to the same month a year ago, which was the slowest pace for any month in nine years. This largely was owing to the timing of the Easter holiday, which fell nearly a month later than in 2018. On a seasonally-adjusted basis, the underlying growth rate has been relatively steady since October 2018 at a 4.1% annualized pace. Capacity (available seat kilometers or ASKs) for the month of March grew 4.2% and load factor dropped 0.9 percentage point to 81.7%. While traffic growth slowed considerably in March, we do not see the month as a bellwether for the rest of 2019. Nevertheless, the economic backdrop has become somewhat less favorable, with the IMF having recently revised its GDP outlook downward for a fourth time in the past year, said Alexandre de Juniac, IATAs Director General and CEO. MARCH 2019 (% year-on-year) World share1 RPK ASK PLF (%-pt)2 PLF (level)3 Total Market 100.0% 3.1% 4.2% -0.9% 81.7% Africa 2.1% 2.6% 2.0% 0.4% 72.0% Asia Pacific 34.4% 1.9% 3.5% -1.3% 81.2% Europe 26.7% 4.9% 5.4% -0.4% 83.7% Latin America 5.1% 5.6% 5.1% 0.3% 81.5% Middle East 9.2% -3.0% 2.1% -3.9% 73.9% North America 22.5% 4.9% 5.0% -0.1% 85.0% International Passenger Markets March international passenger demand rose just 2.5% compared to March 2018, which was down from 4.5% year-over-year growth recorded in February and almost 5 percentage points below its five-year average pace. All regions showed growth with the exception of the Middle East. Total capacity climbed 4.0%, and load factor fell 1.2 percentage points to 80.8%. European carriers saw March demand increase 4.7% over March 2018, down from 7.5% annual growth in February. The result partly reflects falling business confidence in the Eurozone and ongoing uncertainty about Brexit. March capacity rose 5.4% and load factor slid 0.6 percentage point to 84.2%, which still was the highest among regions. saw March demand increase 4.7% over March 2018, down from 7.5% annual growth in February. The result partly reflects falling business confidence in the Eurozone and ongoing uncertainty about Brexit. March capacity rose 5.4% and load factor slid 0.6 percentage point to 84.2%, which still was the highest among regions. Asia-Pacific airlines traffic climbed 2.0% in March, compared to the year-ago period, which was down from 4% growth in February. However, results were stronger on a seasonally-adjusted basis. Capacity increased 4.0%, and load factor dropped 1.6 percentage points to 80.1%. traffic climbed 2.0% in March, compared to the year-ago period, which was down from 4% growth in February. However, results were stronger on a seasonally-adjusted basis. Capacity increased 4.0%, and load factor dropped 1.6 percentage points to 80.1%. Middle East carriers passenger demand fell 3.0% in March, marking a second consecutive month of declining traffic. This reflects the broader structural changes in the industry which have been taking place in the region. Capacity increased 2.3%, and load factor plunged 4.0 percentage points to 73.8%. demand fell 3.0% in March, marking a second consecutive month of declining traffic. This reflects the broader structural changes in the industry which have been taking place in the region. Capacity increased 2.3%, and load factor plunged 4.0 percentage points to 73.8%. North American airlines posted a 3.0% traffic rise in March compared to the year-ago period, which was down somewhat from 4.2% year-on-year growth in February. On a seasonally-adjusted basis, traffic has been trending strongly upwards, however. Capacity climbed 2.6% and load factor edged up 0.3 percentage point to 83.7%. posted a 3.0% traffic rise in March compared to the year-ago period, which was down somewhat from 4.2% year-on-year growth in February. On a seasonally-adjusted basis, traffic has been trending strongly upwards, however. Capacity climbed 2.6% and load factor edged up 0.3 percentage point to 83.7%. Latin American airlines had the fastest traffic growth at 5.5%, compared to a year ago, up from 4.6% in February. March capacity rose 5.8%, and load factor dipped 0.2 percentage point to 81.9%. Latin America was the only region to show an increase in the year-on-year growth rate for March compared to February. In seasonally-adjusted terms traffic continues to trend upward sharply, notwithstanding economic and political uncertainty in some key countries. had the fastest traffic growth at 5.5%, compared to a year ago, up from 4.6% in February. March capacity rose 5.8%, and load factor dipped 0.2 percentage point to 81.9%. Latin America was the only region to show an increase in the year-on-year growth rate for March compared to February. In seasonally-adjusted terms traffic continues to trend upward sharply, notwithstanding economic and political uncertainty in some key countries. African airlines demand increased 2.1% compared to March 2018, down from a 2.5% rise in February. Capacity climbed 1.1%, and load factor strengthened 0.7 percentage point to 71.4%. The upward traffic trend has softened since mid-2018 in line with falling business confidence in some of the regions key economies. Domestic Passenger Markets Domestic demand rose 4.1% in March, which was a deceleration from 6.2% growth recorded in February that was driven largely by developments in China and India. Domestic capacity climbed 4.5%, and load factor dipped 0.3 percentage point to 83.4%. March 2019 (% year-on-year) World share1 RPK ASK PLF (%-pt)2 PLF (level)3 Domestic 36.0% 4.1% 4.5% -0.3% 83.4% Dom. Australia 0.9% -3.2% -2.1% -0.9% 79.3% Domestic Brazil 1.1% 3.2% 2.1% 0.9% 80.9% Dom. China P.R. 9.5% 2.9% 4.4% -1.2% 84.2% Domestic India 1.6% 3.1% 4.7% -1.4% 86.6% Domestic Japan 1.0% 4.2% 3.6% 0.4% 74.5% Dom. Russian Fed. 1.4% 14.2% 11.1% 2.2% 80.5% Domestic US 14.1% 6.3% 6.9% -0.5% 85.8% Indias domestic traffic rose just 3.1% in March, down from Februarys growth of 8.3% and well-off the torrid five-year average growth pace of close to 20% per month. The slowdown largely reflects the reduction in flight operations of Jet Airwayswhich stopped flying in Aprilas well as disruptions at Mumbai airport owing to construction. domestic traffic rose just 3.1% in March, down from Februarys growth of 8.3% and well-off the torrid five-year average growth pace of close to 20% per month. The slowdown largely reflects the reduction in flight operations of Jet Airwayswhich stopped flying in Aprilas well as disruptions at Mumbai airport owing to construction. Australias domestic traffic fell 3.2% in March, marking the fifth consecutive month of contracting demand. The Bottom Line Despite Marchs slowdown, the outlook for air travel remains solid. Global connectivity has never been better. Consumers can choose from more than 21,000 city pair combinations on more than 125,000 daily flights. And air fares continue to decline in real terms. Aviation is truly the Business Freedom for the more than 12.5 million passengers who will board flights each day. But it also remains extremely challenging, as the recent failures of Jet Airways and WOW Air illustrate. Airlines compete intensely with one another, but they also cooperate in areas such as safety, security, infrastructure and the environment, to ensure that aviation can accommodate a forecast doubling in demand by 2037. Next month, leaders of the industry will gather in Seoul for the 75th IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit where all of these items will be high on the agenda. Read the full March Passenger Traffic Analysis (pdf) For more information, please contact: Corporate Communications Tel: +41 22 770 2967 Email: corpcomms@iata.org Notes for Editors: The School Committee thanked Andrew Callahan, center, the student representative, for his participation this year. Superintendent's office. School Committee Heather Boulger at the new entrance across from the elevator. Staff shortly after moving in. PreviousNext North Adams School Committee Approves Budget, Academy Changes Superintendent Barbara Malkas shows off her office. The old signs haven't been removed and Mayor Thomas Bernard joked that some of them were still applicable. NORTH ADAMS, Mass. The School Committee on Tuesday approved a spending plan for fiscal 2020 of $18 million. Some $265,000 in school choice funds is being used to offset the budget, bringing the total down to $17.769 million. That represents an increase of $348,414 over this year, or 2 percent. Superintendent Barbara Malkas said the School Committee has annually transferred $250,000 in school choice funds and that this year an additional $15,000 was being requested to cover the stipend for the school nurse leader approved earlier this year. "The budget is a level service budget," she said. "Using the right of assignment, the budget does represent resource allocation of some positions, specifically at Drury High School ... no one has lost their position." Revenues include $13,795,263 in Chapter 70 state aid and the city's contribution of $3,973,812 toward net school spending, based on the governor's budget proposal. Several line items were voted separately with committee members who had relatives in those departments abstaining from the vote; the entire bottom line budget was then approved by the committee. The School Department budget and the assessment for McCann Technical School will be reviewed by the Finance Committee on Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m. One savings this year is in the rental line item reflecting Central Office's move over spring break to the second floor of City Hall and savings of about $56,500 for the coming year. The offices moved from over the Berkshire Bank where they had been located since construction started on Colegrove Park Elementary School. City offices including inspections, community development, the administrative officer and purchasing began moving downstairs after the new year. The credit union relocated to the former Wall-Streeter mill on Union Street and public services to the new City Yard. The mayor's office will remain on the second floor for the time being. Malkas gave brief tour of the new Central Office after the public hearing on the budget. The second floor is now locked off just past the mayor's office. The second floor conference room now holds the School Department's furniture and bookcases but is still accessible for use by city officials. Staff have so far been pleased with the space and configuration, including having a plethora of windows. "So everyone's really excited about windows that they can open and daylight," Malkas said. The superintendent was complimentary of Robert Flaherty, director of facilities for the schools, for getting all the offices repainted and overseeing the modifications. In other business, the committee approved a shared services agreement that made the North Adams Public Schools the contractor for the North Berkshire Academy. The collaborative special education program opened last year at the Armory to be run by Collaborative for Educational Services. Because CES is located in Northampton, the school district was paying a high tuition rate but couldn't become a member to get a discount. "The program is currently housing 10 students, seven of which are North Adams Public Schools students," Malkas explained. "So we're already paying tuition for them. The stafC there were all staff of the Collaborative for Education Services. By agreement, they will become staff members of North Adams Public Schools servicing that specific program." North Adams will take responsibility as fiscal agent for the program and member school districts will pay tuition to keep the program self-sustaining. Member districts are North Adams, Hoosac Valley Regional, Mount Greylock Regional and Northern Berkshire School Union. The program is for children who before would be sent of district for services. Annual tuition for participating districts is $33,500 per student and $41,500 for non-members. The School Committee voted to waive tuition for a Stamford, Vt., student attending middle school at Drury High School. Stamford had paid for this year but declined to cover next year. Malkas said the student was doing very well at Drury and teachers felt it would disruptive to put the student back at Stamford for one year. The waiver is considered "non-precedent setting." Tuition for Stamford students is set at $12,303 for next fiscal year, up 3 percent from this year's $11,944; the town does pay tuition for its high school students who mostly attend Massachusetts schools. The committee approved hiring the New England School Development Council to do a "Best Educational Use of School Facilities" study in relation to the submission to the statement of interest submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority. NESDEC will analyze and assess present and future educational needs in looking at Greylock, Brayton, Colegrove Park and Drury (with a focus on Greylock) including enrollment projections, capacity, programming and building utilization, operations and deficiencies. The committee also approved the transfer of $16,985 from the school choice revolving fund to pay for the study. The committee approved a new bicycle policy for students who bike to school and postponed until the next meeting a social media policy to add language referring to the use of school department devices by employees and strengthening oversight on posting pictures of students. Both Malkas and Food Services Director Corey Nicholas are both being recognized; Malkas is getting an award from her peers and Nicholas for the high rate of participation in the district's breakfast program. Student representative Andrew Callahan was bid farewell at his last meeting. Callahan will be graduating June 6 and attending Rochester(N.Y.) Institute of Technology in the fall. Saudi Arabia detains 174 Yemeni fishermen and their boats in violation of ceasefire provisions by Ahmed Abdulkareem May 07,2019 | Source: MintPress News The Saudi-led Coalition kidnapped more than 170 Yemeni fishermen and seized their boats while they were fishing near the port city of Hodeida this past week. To demonstrate clearly that they posed no threat, the fishermen hung large white flags on the back of their boats and waved fish in the air as Coalition military vessels approached their boats. A gunboat approached and forced us to get off the boat, then a Saudi soldier told us to follow them to the warship. I managed to escape but the others could not, Salem Arud told MintPress. We are not Houthis, just poor fishermen who went out to make a living in the sea. All told, 174 fishermen and 10 boats were abducted by Saudi-led forces, Mohammed al-Hassani, head of the Forum of Tahamah Fishermen, told MintPress. Despite Swedens truce, Coalition forces have continued to prevent Yemeni fishermen from fishing and if the fishermen dare to sail, they will be killed or detained. After a ceasefire agreement for the port city of Hodeida was reached in Sweden late last year, thousands of fishermen decided to take their small boats into deeper waters off of Hodeidas coast, but have faced arrest or even been the target of airstrikes by the Saudi-led Coalition. Meanwhile, the families of the kidnapped fishermen organized a protest asking the Coalition to release their loved ones. Saudi forces kidnapped my sons. Their fate is still unknown, a father of two fishermen told MintPress during the protest. According to the Legal Center for Rights and Development in Yemen, a non-governmental organization monitoring human-rights violations, the destruction of 433 fishing boats by the Saudi-led Coalition has robbed many of Hodeidas residents of their sole source of income and ability to feed their families. The four-year war against Yemen has caused the worlds worst man-made humanitarian crisis, with two-thirds of the population some 18 million people, including fishermen relying on humanitarian aid to survive. Theme(s): Communities and Organisations. Russia frees two Ukrainian fishermen held for months after incident off Crimea coast Two Ukrainian fishermen detained last year by Russian border guards after their boat broke down off the coast of the Crimea Peninsula have been released. Lyudmyla Denisova, the human rights ombudsman for Ukraine, said in a post to her Facebook page on May 7 that she had been informed that Ruslan Kondratyuk and Andriy Morosov are now on the way back to their families in the Kherson region. Denisova said Russian border guards detained the fishermen in September after their motorboat broke down, forcing them to land the craft in Crimea, the Black Sea peninsula that Russia annexed in 2014. An official with the Russia-backed government in Crimea confirmed to the Russia news agency TASS that the fishermen had been released. Lyudmila Lubina, identified as a Crimean human rights ombudsman, said a court had fined the men an undisclosed sum, although she said they had faced up to five years in prison. Russia, meanwhile, continues to hold 24 Ukrainian seamen who were jailed after Russian border guards seized their vessels near the Kerch Strait between Russia and Crimea in a flare-up of tension in November 2018. Moscow accused them of illegal entry into Russian territorial waters, which they deny, and they are formally charged with illegal border crossing. Russias annexation of Crimea has not been recognized by the international community. The United States and European Union have imposed sanctions on Moscow for the seizure and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty 2019 RFE/RL, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Theme(s): Others. Cyclone Fani: The worst is over, but picking up the pieces wont be easy by Dasgupta KumKum Dasgupta May 07,2019 | Source: Hindustan Times India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday conducted an aerial survey of Puri and Khurdha districts of Odisha to see for himself the scale of devastation caused by Cyclone Fani, which made landfall in the state on May 3. During the prime ministers visit, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said Odisha deserves special category status for being the most disaster-prone state in India. His demand is understandable. A Super Cyclone flattened the state in 1999; in 2013, Odisha was hit by Cyclone Phailin, and in 2018 by Cyclone Titli. In 2019, it was Cyclone Fani. While the first one killed more than 10,000 people, the death toll in the next three was below 100, thanks to the states improved disaster management skills. Besides these major disruptions, Odisha also had to deal with other climate-induced disasters such as heat waves, droughts, and floods. Such episodes are expected to increase in the future. The Fifth Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (2015) report predicts that India and other tropical countries will witness an increasing number of cyclones, storm surges and extreme rainfall in the future. While the Patnaik government did well to weather Cyclone Fani the state mobilised resources and personnel to evacuate more than a million people and save lives, the challenges ahead of the state now will be equally gargantuan. While restoring infrastructure will be one aspect of the challenge, rebuilding lives of poor people, especially the vulnerable category, will be a much greater one. This will need some smart and long-term thinking on the part of the government, said Amar Nayak, a disaster management expert, and ActionAids Global Humanitarian Adviser. In February, members of the Peoples Solidarity Forum, a state-level forum of peoples organisations from 14 districts of Odisha, released a manifesto that focused on exactly that: Long-term planning to improve disaster management and response, mitigation, and building resilience of coastal communities. These proposals can also be considered by Indias other coastal cities that dont yet have a plan to tackle such events. One of the interesting suggestions in the manifesto is to develop a cadre of people who know how to swim, can fix electrical networks, drive speed boats, all of which are important skills in disaster situations, and then improve their skills further so that they can supplement the states efforts during such calamities. Second, there has to be a mapping of the most vulnerable population single women, senior citizens, children, pregnant women, the physically challenged, Dalits in villages and cities to ensure that they are rescued first. Third, regular disaster risk reduction trainings must be done. Fourth, such disasters also mean loss of daily wages for poor people. It is critical to ensure that social protection programmes such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme are implemented well so that people can resume their normal lives sooner rather than later. Fifth, each cyclone is also an ecological disaster, and all efforts must be made to regenerate natures own disaster managers, such as mangroves. Mangrove forests act as a buffer or shock absorber in time of such disasters. There is a clear indication that mangroves at Sundarbans saved Kolkata from Cyclone Aila in 2009, by absorbing a massive chunk of the cyclones fury, Indian Forest Service officer, Parveen Kaswan, recently wrote in a blog. Unfortunately, the people who run Indias coastal cities are waging a war on these natural barriers. Take the example of Mumbai. A 2018 December report in Hindustan Times reported that mangrove destruction cases doubled in 2018, but there was not even one conviction. Indias financial capital should be careful because climate change can increase cyclonic activity in the Arabian Sea. Sixth, while a major portion of the focus after a disaster is on rural areas, there is a need to provide for the urban poor in cities. They need safe shelter, livelihood options with skill building and social security. Badly constructed buildings can be killers as much as cyclones and earthquakes. There is an urgent need to invest not just in cyclone shelters but also in cyclone-resilient construction, as per the Model Building Bye Laws, 2016, of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Non-profits such as Save the Children have also raised the need to ensure psychological counselling for children to overcome such climate tragedies. Last, but not least, all Indian cities need city-level disaster management plans. Unfortunately, as most city governments struggle to deal with other day-to-day challenges such as education, infrastructure and health, climate resilience and adaptation figure low on their list of priorities. Cyclone Fani is a warning for cities: Learn to be climate resilient or the consequences will be severe. HT Media Limited All rights reserved. Theme(s): Others. Stop joking around: Indonesia's Fisheries Minister vows to continue blowing up illegal fishing boats May 05,2019 | Source: The Jakarta Globe Indonesian border patrol sank 13 Vietnamese fishing boats on Saturday the first time it did so in the past eight months as Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti vows to continue her fight against illegal fishing. "We destroy these ships to stop illegal fishing on Indonesian waters. Our marine resources, our fish, should be enjoyed by our own people, not foreign fishermen," Susi said on Saturday at a government event in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, as reported by Antara. The Vietnamese boats were part of a group of 51 fishing boats from Vietnam, Malaysia, China, the Philippines and Indonesia which were scheduled to go out to sea over the next two weeks. "This is a way of putting the fear of God into these illegal fishermen. We also continue to warn them through their ambassadors and their bosses," Susi said. Sinking ships, often by bombing them, has been one of the wily minister's trademark tactics to scare off illegal foreign fishing ships. The minister even has her own meme, usually featuring her stern face and her trademark catchphrase, "Tenggelamkan!" ("Sink them all!"). The seemingly extreme measure has helped Indonesia recover its fish stocks from 7.1 million tons in 2014 to 12.5 million tons in 2016, according to the Fisheries Ministry's latest data. However, Susi has faced a backlash for her action, not least from a fellow minister in President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo's cabinet. Luhut Pandjaitan, the Maritime Affairs Coordinating Minister, and several legislators have called Susi's action too extreme. They recommended putting up the confiscated ships on auction so local fishermen can buy them. Susi's critics argued that local fishermen do not have enough ships to make use of Indonesia's recovering fish stock. Also, sinking the boats and its extensive coverage on local and international papers unnecessarily annoy neighboring countries, they said. But according to Susi, ships that have been auctioned off can easily find their way back to their original owners, who would send them out to sea again to steal fish in Indonesia. An incident in Natuna Sea in January backed up Susi's argument. A Navy patrol ship picked up two Vietnamese boats that had been confiscated and auctioned off six months earlier, fishing illegally again on Indonesian waters. "Auctioning the catch from these illegal ships, that's okay. But if the ships are auctioned off, they will be used to steal again. Then we have to capture them again. Do you want other countries to see us as a joke?" Susi said. 2019 JAKARTA GLOBE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVERD Theme(s): Fishing Craft, Gear and Fishing Methods. As India goes to the polls, attacks on journalists in the state of West Bengal were reported on Monday, May 6. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its affiliate the National Union of Journalists (India) have condemned the violence and called on state government and election commission to investigate the incidents. Indian voters queue at a polling station to cast their ballots during the fifth phase of India's general election in Howrah in West Bengal state on May 6, 2019. India held the next stage of its marathon election on May 6, with 90 million people eligible to vote. Credit: Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP On Monday, voting in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha (Indias national elections) took place, including in seven constituencies in West Bengal. Journalists from NewsX, ABP Ananda and Zee News were attacked, allegedly by Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers. According to The Indian Express two of its journalists were injured when TMC workers allegedly ransacked Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Arjun Singhs vehicle at Tetulia village. Journalists were physically assaulted, vandalized media personnel vehicles and they were also threatened if they did not leave. NUJ(I) said that they would send a fact finding committee and appealed to the election commission and state government to investigate the attacks. NUJ(I) Secretary General Sheo Kumar Agarwal said that NUJ(I) strongly criticize these barbaric acts and demand the State governments to nab the culprits at the earliest. We also demand to look into the security of the media persons, while covering different events in the states." said NUJ(I) in the statement. The IFJ said: The media play an important role in the monitoring and reporting on elections. They should never be attacked or intimidated during the election process. Just as elections are an important part of democracy, so too is the media and this role should never be underestimated. We call on the Indian authorities to investigate the attacks in West Bengal and guarantee the safety of the media in the remaining phases of the elections. Imperial Valley News Center FTC case against backpack seller unpacks how law applies in crowdfunding Washington, DC - Where do entrepreneurs go if theyre long on ideas, but short on capital? In their short history, crowdfunding platforms have often been the financial sparkplug that ignites the engine of innovation. But some campaigners promote zealously and deliver zilch. According to the FTC, a company raised over $800,000 in four crowdfunding campaigns for a high-tech backpack and other items, but used a large portion of the money on personal expenses. Defendants iBackPack of Texas and CEO Douglas Monahan claimed on popular crowdfunding platforms they would use the funds primarily to develop, produce, and deliver certain products including a backpack that incorporated tech features. For example, on Indiegogo, the defendants claimed as early as 2015 that consumers who contributed $169 would get the iBackPack 1.0 Power Pack, which features batteries, cables, and a Bluetooth speaker. The March 2016 delivery date came and went without consumers getting the promised backpacks. But that same month, the defendants launched a campaign on Kickstarter to produce and distribute the iBackPack 2.0 an updated version of the still undelivered original iBackPack. Consumers who pledged $299 on Kickstarter were promised the WiFi version of the backpack with an estimated delivery date of September 2016. As months went by, the defendants told consumers they were busy finalizing all the various components of the iBackPack and even posted photos purporting to show the product being manufactured in China. But according to the complaint, the defendants were telling one story to contributors and another to crowdfunding platforms. Trying to stave off dissatisfied consumers, the defendants extended the estimated delivery date to December 2016 and then delayed it again to the fall of 2017. At the same time, in an effort to avoid losing their fundraising privileges, the defendants allegedly told Indiegogos staff they were in the full production and shipping phase and had already shipped the iBackPack to hundreds if not thousands of contributors. Youll want to read the complaint for details, but the FTC alleges the defendants made similar misrepresentations in Indiegogo campaigns for their MOJO tech shoulder bag and POW Smart Cable. According to the lawsuit, the estimated delivery dates for those products came and went with nothing in consumers hands, despite the defendants claims that the products were FINALLY on their way here, that consumers would get them within the next 6 weeks or so, and that theyre already in the air from China. The defendants allegedly told Indiegogos staff: MOJO BAG IS DONE/FINISHED/SHIPPED/OVER WITH and POW CABLES ARE DONE/FINISHED/NEARLY ALL SHIPPED/LAST ONES GOING OUT. Indiegogo ultimately suspended Defendants fundraising privileges in November 2016. Hundreds of consumers complained about the defendants failure to deliver the promised items. According to the FTC, in some cases, defendant Monahan responded with threats, including telling one consumer he knew where the consumer lived and telling another person he would sue for libel and slander. Only a small number of total contributors have received requested refunds. So where did the money go? According to the complaint: Defendants have used a large share of contributions for Defendant Monahans own personal purposes, such as making bitcoin purchases and ATM withdrawals and paying off personal credit cards; for marketing efforts to raise additional funds from consumers; and for other business ventures. Defendants used a small fraction of the funds to send individual items such as charging cables to some consumers in order to string Indiegogo and consumers along while Defendants raised additional funds, but have not provided a single completed product to any consumer who contributed to the campaigns. The case is pending in federal court in Texas, but even at this early stage, it serves as a reminder for businesses to honor established consumer protection principles on crowdfunding platforms. That includes the FTC Acts prohibition on false or deceptive claims, which applies to promises made on these platforms. Whether consumers are putting money toward a tech backpack or something else, they shouldnt have to shoulder the burden of fundraisers allegedly illegal conduct. Three Nominations Sent to the Senate Washington, DC - President sends Three Nominations to the Senate: NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE: Philip S. Goldberg, of the District of Columbia, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Career Ambassador, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Colombia. Andrea L. Hertzfeld, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of fifteen years, vice Stuart Gordon Nash, retired. Jessica E. Lapenn, of New York, a Career Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Representative of the United States of America to the African Union, with the rank and status of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary. My wife and I are watching Game of Thrones, for the same reason almost everyone else is watching: We've already invested seven seasons. We want to see how it all turns out. This is a horrible rationale, of course, and not just because the eighth and final season is so horrible. If you don't watch Game of Thrones or don't care, I apologize. But 17.4 million Americans watched the premiere, which is slightly larger than my readership. So I'm willing to assume some overlap. I'll try to put all of my objections into one sentence, and then move on. (I'm not alone; h/t to Elahe Izadi at The Washington Post. Oh, and "spoiler alert!") You can skip this and just go to the next paragraph if the show isn't your cup of tea: This season's epic battle scene was filmed with such poor lighting that I almost missed the pure tactical incompetence of the show's heroes, who sent their most elite cavalry force, the Dothraki, alone against an overwhelming army of undead warriors, presaging a string of errors so egregious that they sparked an entire genre of comprehensive online analyses by real-life professional military planners, which in turn prompted backlash (like, "nice job critiquing Game of Thrones, maybe now work on getting us out of Afghanistan, sir?"), foreshadowing the parade of missteps, plot holes, and character inconsistencies in the most recent episode, which will forever be symbolized by the fact that a misplaced and wildly anachronistic Starbucks cup somehow wound up on camera. You get the point -- and if you don't, it's that throwing good time after bad, as many GOT viewers agree we're all doing according to an unscientific survey of Twitter posts and Reddit threads, is a really bad practice. Among economists, it's called the sunk cost fallacy, otherwise known as "escalation of commitment: holding on too long to a strategy that was once successful." That quote comes from Harvard Business Review. There are a lot of other places describing sunk costs, but I already have a subscription to HBR. (Ba-dum-dum.) The sunk cost fallacy is also one of the most tempting traps in life and business. It's why people who should never be lawyers go back for the second year of law school, why salespeople bang their heads against the wall with recalcitrant customers, and why companies push forth blithely with products that nobody really wants or needs. Lola co-founders and co-CEOs Jordana Kier (left) and Alex Friedman have juggled two children and three pregnancies (so far) by passing their duties back and forth while the other is out on maternity leave. Laurel Golio For a few years, Lola co-founders Alex Friedman and Jordana Kier saw their relationship as similar to that of a marriage, and their company as somewhat akin to a child. "Right before we launched Lola, Jordana got married, and right after we launched, I got married," says Friedman. "Then you and I got married," she quips, looking at her business partner, "and we never saw our husbands again." Those perceptions changed in March 2017, when Friedman told Kier she was pregnant. Kier had a baby in December. And now Friedman is due to go out on maternity leave again, beginning in July. Here's how the co-founders of the New York City-based feminine care product company have juggled three pregnancies, two kids, and a startup--so far. --As told to Kimberly Weisul Friedman: We wrote a maternity policy knowing I would be the first to use it. The policy was a combination of our personal preferences, our desire to put a stake in the ground, and trying to understand what other companies at our stage were doing. We decided to offer 12 weeks fully paid leave. It's gender-agnostic. We knew Jordana wanted to have children, and that my husband and I wanted to have another. This was sort of the trial run. How does it work to have co-CEOs pass a business back and forth while one is out? I had been managing marketing, customer operations, and digital. The month before I went out, we started to carve away my ownership of those functions, to make sure Jordana was 100 percent prepared. By the end, I was in more of a shadow role. I didn't come into the office during leave. I was actively in touch with Jordana the whole time. I attended a couple of Lola events, like our company Thanksgiving, to stay in touch with the team. Toward the back half of my leave, I would meet with Jordana for a few hours on Fridays. She would come over with an agenda, and we'd go through the items one by one while I pumped or breastfed and rocked a baby. We knew Jordana wanted to have children, and that my husband and I wanted to have another. This was sort of the trial run. How does it work to have co-CEOs pass a business back and forth while one is out? At that time, we were kicking off a fundraise. We would talk about, what's our pitch right now? What have we achieved in the past 18 months? I didn't feel the draw to come in and engage operationally. But we knew we wanted to meet investors together. I remember those sessions fondly, because they were a welcome change of pace to my weekly routine, and exactly the right level of engagement for me while I adjusted to being a parent. Kier: I am glad Alex went out on leave first. Of the two of us, she is the planner. She knew we needed to think about this two months before it happened. A few days after giving birth, I was ready to reengage. Friedman: I think I knew that would happen. Kier: I remember coming in after a month for a meeting. The team was like, please go away. Having a newborn while also working on the business was really difficult. My personality doesn't lend itself to being fully in the dark for 12 weeks. I was lucky that my daughter, Rose, slept well, which meant that I slept well. I did check in with Alex. I would try to schedule phone calls or coffees with my direct reports during my daughter's nap times, and occasionally bring her along. Of course, the first time I did that she had a blowout diaper and a total meltdown as I changed her on the floor. Sometimes I would recruit my mom, who lives nearby, to watch Rose for a few hours. Friedman: When I first came back, I got a lot of calendar invites between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. I'd have to ask for a time between 9 and 6. Now I am offline from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. I block that on my calendar. Becoming a parent has changed my perspective on where I need to delegate. It certainly makes me more efficient during the day. I used to oversee our website development, customer operations, and hiring; as we've scaled, we've empowered others to lead in those areas. Now I think, Where do I need to meet with people, understand what's going on, and where can I let others drive? As undergrads at MIT, Zahir Dossa and Joshua Maciejewski dreamed of starting a business together. Ten years later, in 2015, the friends teamed up with cosmetic chemist Hien Nguyen to found Function of Beauty, a direct-to-consumer company based in New York City that creates personalized hair care products. Dossa, who began flying this year, and Maciejewski, who has been flying since he was a teenager, both see taking flight as a way to practice the mental discipline they need to lead their business. "Aviate, navigate, communicate--and do it in that order," says Maciejewski. "Focus first on the day-to-day things that keep the company moving forward, and then continuously share that vision with your team." Here, Dossa reflects on their journey. --As told to Anna Meyer I became friends with Josh around 2005, while we were undergrads at MIT, and we quickly knew we wanted to start a business together. After graduation, those dreams were put on hold while Josh left for the Navy, and I stuck around to complete my degrees. Meanwhile, I looked into which industries had inefficiencies and decided that beauty held the biggest opportunity. Consumers need customized beauty products, particularly customized hair products, but no one really offered them. In 2014, when I first pitched the idea to Josh, who had studied engineering in school, he laughed for several minutes straight. But he came around to it when he realized the complex engineering, scientific, and technological needs that were ahead of us: We wanted to fill bottles automatically, and getting products to match consumers' individualized hair care needs was going to be a major technological feat. But we figured it out. After the company launched in 2015, we finally got an automatic fill that fit our standards. We also got accepted into Y Combinator that same year. In 2017, our company was valued at $110 million, and we raised $12 million in our Series A. Since that first automatic fill, we've filled more than one million unique formulas for customers. The fast growth has been a wild ride, but every entrepreneur needs something to balance the hectic lifestyle. For us, that's flying planes. Josh has been flying planes since he was a teenager, and his passion for flying encouraged me to make it one of my 2019 resolutions to learn how to fly as well. For both of us, flying is like a mindful meditation that helps us forget about the company for a little bit and focus on nothing else but controlling the plane safely. It's completely engrossing and a hobby that's helped me apply that similar focus to my work. By Matt Doyle, VP and Co-Founder of Excel Builders When someone is shopping an item, especially an expensive one, they tend to go through several stages before they decide to make their purchase. These stages can be roughly summarized as: Engagement: Theyve started looking for a solution to their problem. Theyve started looking for a solution to their problem. Education: Theyve started researching the different options available. Theyve started researching the different options available. Evaluation: Theyve started to compare the options to one another. Theyve started to compare the options to one another. Justification: Theyve rationalized the purchase. Theyve rationalized the purchase. Purchase: Theyve completed the transaction. Im a custom home builder in the Delaware/Maryland area. My company focuses on the higher end of the market -; successful people who care about having a home that perfectly matches their tastes -; and we have learned a lot about appealing to unique buyers at various purchase stages. Its important to be able to identify what stage the buyer is in. Late-stage buyers are closest to purchasing, so they make the most cost-effective targets for your efforts. You are most likely to see a return on your investment if you save special discounts and personal attention for these customers Here are some of the ways you can identify them. 1. Theyve done their homework. Always pay attention to the level of knowledge that a customer has when they approach you, or you approach them. In my experience, the more someone already knows about the product, the more likely it is that theyre nearly ready to buy. Its often easy to notice when someone is educated on a product. Listen to their questions and what they have to say about the product. You can hurry this strategy along by coaxing questions from them. Ask them what details they need to know to make up their minds. If its clear that they understand that there are different models of a project, or that the models have different applications, theyve already researched that information for themselves. If they also know about products by other makers and how yours compares, it means that they are past the evaluation stage and moving on to either justification or purchase. 2. Theyre asking questions about dimensions, specs or price. While youre listening for the customers questions, make sure you pay attention to the kind of questions that theyre asking. You should be listening for questions that relate directly to use. For example, imagine that you are selling a physical good like a piece of furniture. If someone asks you a question about the material its made of or what style it is, they may be interested but theyre not necessarily close to purchasing. However, if they ask you questions about the exact size (as if theyre measuring it for a room) or about the price and what deals are available for it, that points to a customer who is much closer to point of purchase. The same would apply if you sell digital products like business apps or server space. The more closely the questions relate to use, the more likely it is that they want to buy right now. 3. Theyre selling the item to themselves. Making a big purchase is always a somewhat stressful experience for anyone. In most cases, being resistant to buy is prudent behavior. When someone approaches a purchase, they have to begin convincing themselves that theyre acting in their own best interest. Sometimes, they accidentally reveal this to you. Listen to the things theyre saying for signs that theyre trying to sell the item to themselves. It may be signaled by their enthusiasm or by them listing the products selling points before you can. Once you identify this, respond by getting out of the way. Slow down on selling and simply affirm what theyre already saying. If you push them too hard at this stage, they may feel manipulated and pull back. Improve your conversions by finding buyers at the right stage. By listening for signs that the customer has done their homework, that theyre considering the use and that theyre selling the item to themselves, you can identify the ones that are in the final stages of the buying process. Use this information to target your most likely customers and to determine the best strategy for finally closing the sale. Disney and Fox have announced a number of new additions to their release schedule that takes fans all the way to 2027, following their $71 billion merger earlier this year. Among the movies planned for release over the next eight years are three currently untitled Star Wars projects, which are scheduled for release each pre-Christmas weekend every other year from 2022. The dates are 16 December 2022, 20 December 2024, and 18 December 2026. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Show all 13 1 /13 Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Who are you, Rey? It seems extremely likely (some might even say crystal clear) that The Rise of Skywalker will shed light on Rey's origins namely her possible Skywalker heritage. It is unknown exactly how this will play out, though. Is Rey a Skywalker by blood, or by spirit? YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown The return of the lightsaber Rey still has the blue lightsaber she inherited from Luke! And it works! YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown This fighter means trouble It definitely looks like the fighter Rey is about to jump over (and presumably damage with her lightsaber) is Kylo Ren's. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Dark warrior Speaking of Kylo Ren, what is he up to? Well, he's definitely up to no good. And he's accompanied by a Stromtrooper, which rarely means good news. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown On the mend Kylo Ren's helmet is shown getting re-forged. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Duo In case any one had doubt: Poe and Finn are back. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown A new friend Looks like BB-8 has a new droid buddy! Very cute. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Co-pilot Look at Chewbacca flying the Millenium Falcon with Lando Calrissian! YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Big reveal Speaking of Lando, the trailer marks the return of Billy Dee Williams, who last played the character in Return of the Jedi 36 years ago. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Wait a minute Eagle-eyed viewers have pointed out on Twitter that this medal is extremely similar to the ones Luke and Han Solo receive from Leia during a ceremony at the end of A New Hope. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Leia's return Carrie Fisher's Leia can be seen in the trailer giving Rey a heartfelt hug. Deleted scenes from The Force Awakens were used in order to feature Fisher, who died in December 2016, without resorting to CGI. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Wreckage It looks like Rey is staring at the Death Star II here, possibly on Endor. YouTube / Star Wars Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker trailer shot-by-shot breakdown Listen Yes, this is a dark screen. At the end of the trailer, the screen goes black, and Palpatine's cackling laugh can distinctly be heard a surprise that few saw coming. YouTube / Star Wars No new details around the films have been revealed, but Disney previously announced that two separate Star Wars series separate to the Skywalker saga were being developed by Rian Johnson and Game of Thrones showrunners David Benioff and DB Weiss. Were excited to put in place a robust and diverse slate that lays the foundation of our long-term strategy, bringing together a breadth of films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, Fox, Fox Searchlight and Blue Sky Studios to create an extraordinary collection of cinematic experiences for audiences around the world, said Cathleen Taff, president of theatrical distribution, franchise management, and business and audience insights at The Walt Disney Studios. With a strong summer already in place, we are eager to carry that momentum forward over the coming years thanks to a creative wellspring of bold and imaginative stories coming from our world-class studios including several new chapters of two revered franchises, Avatar and Star Wars. Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker is still scheduled for 20 December 2019. The latest episode of Game of Thrones featured many references and callbacks to its former seasons. With just two episodes to go until the HBO show comes to an end, showrunners David Benioff and DB Weiss have been paying homage to moments from as early as season one while also placing tantalising nods to George RR Martin's book series in the process. The episode titled The Last of the Starks saw the action move from Winterfell to King's Landing for the climactic battle for the Iron Throne. Click through the below gallery to find the 9 callbacks, book references and Easter Eggs you probably missed. Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs Show all 9 1 /9 Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs The wolf pin Before Theon's funeral, Sansa places a wolf pin on top of his body. Considering his character battled with identity from the very first episode, it's a touching moment; being given this pin bearing the Stark sigil by Sansa shows he's being honoured as a member of the family thanks to his bravery during the Battle of Winterfell. HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs "That's not me" After bastard-no-more Gendry Baratheon asks Arya to become his wife and Lady of Storm's End, she declines, telling him: "That's not me." Settling down and marrying a Lord has never been something that's interested Arya, which shouldn't be a surprise to fans: she told her father Ned this right back in season one. HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs Podrick's skills Sansa spotting Podrick gallivanting around with a girl on each arm during the banquet scene seems to be a reference to a season three scene in which his character sleeps with prostitutes, only to have payment refused due to his sexual skills. HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs 'Little Bird' This episode featured a reunion between Sansa and Sandor Clegane AKA The Hound. The latter tells Sansa how her trajectory might have been less tragic had he taken her with him, like he offered, in the early days of the show. This is a reference to Sansa being tormented by Joffrey and forced into two marriages against her will one with a man who raped and tortured her. HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs Tyrion's offer Upon learning that Cersei has sent Bronn to kill him and Jaime, Tyrion reminds his former friend of a conversation they had seasons back that he would double whatever was offered to him if someone. Those were the days. HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs Varys's speech Tyrion recalls an earlier conversation with Varys thanks to this encounter with Bronn. In season two as well as in George RR Martin's books Varys fills Tyrion in on the nature of sellwords. This is the speech that ends with the memorable line, "...and ofttimes a very small man can cast a very large shadow." Bronn may cut Tyrion off before he gets to that part, but could this be the writers' way of hinting at a big future for the character? HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs A Dornish prince During that same chat with Tyrion, Varys mentions a Dornish prince, who could well appear in the final two episodes. It wouldn't be a stretch to assume that this character appears in the final two episodes, attempting to save Ellaria Sand from an unknown fate at the hand of Cersei Lannister. The last time we saw her, she was imprisoned in the Black Cells at King's Landing. HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs Tyrion knockoiut Back in the early days, Game of Thrones used to knock Tyrion out before big battle sequences as they didn't have the budget to show them. Now, they simply don't have the time so, this week, the tactic is deployed once again as Euyron Greyjoy and The Golden Company start firing arrows at Daenerys' fleet. Tyrion jumps overboard and is swiftly knocked out by a falling mast. When he comes to, he's washed up on shore. HBO Game of Thrones season 8 episode 4 callbacks and Easter eggs Dracarys After Missandei is kidnapped by The Golden Company, Tyrion comes face to face with his sister Cersei. He pleads for her to return Missandei, but Cersei refuses. Instead, she tells Missandei to utter her last words before The Mountain mercilessly chops her head off but not before Daenerys council aide shouts the word: Dracarys. This is the high Valyrian word for Dragonfire. Its usually used by Daenerys as an instruction for Drogon to wreak havoc on their enemies. HBO Game of Thrones fans arent too impressed with several moments from the latest episode one being the climactic death that saw Missandei (Nathalie Emmanuel) killed by The Mountain. Another scene, involving Brienne of Tarth, prompted fans to accuse the episodes writers showrunners David Benioff and DB Weiss of hitting new lows Game of Thrones characters - ranked Show all 70 1 /70 Game of Thrones characters - ranked Game of Thrones characters - ranked 70. Rickon Stark Played by: Art Parkinson : Art Parkinson Easily the most annoying Stark child an impressive feat next to Bran Rickon was at least handed one hell of a death scene: taken out by an arrow courtesy of Ramsay Bolton. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 69. Robin Arryn Played by: Lino Facioli : Lino Facioli Robin Arryn is remembered by most Thrones fans as being the 10-year-old breastfed by his mother (still weird). That's about it. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 68. Renly Baratheon Played by: Gethin Anthony : Gethin Anthony The Rickon of the Baratheon brothers. His claim to the Iron Throne was tenuous, considering his older brother, Stannis, was still alive. When Stannis's shadow monster came to kill him, it was only good news for the show. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 67. Leaf Played by: Kae Alexander : Kae Alexander A lot of mystery may surround Leaf, one of the show's mythical Children of the Forest, but her noble sacrifice to save Bran, Meera and Hodor from a horde of wights robbed her of any worth. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 66. Tommen Baratheon Played by: Dean-Charles Chapman : Dean-Charles Chapman Another boring younger brother. Whereas Joffrey was pure evil, Tommen was innocent and, inevitably, very boring. His cat, Ser Pounce, was an asset to the show. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 65. Lysa Arryn Played by: Kate Dickie : Kate Dickie Lysa, the creepy sister to Catelyn Stark, was first seen with Robin Arryn, her 10-year-old son, latched to her breast. Her death being pushed through the Moon Door couldn't have come sooner. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 64. Benjen Stark Played by: Joseph Mawle/Matteo Elezi : Joseph Mawle/Matteo Elezi Having gone missing in season one, Benjen returned during season six to save his nephew, Bran. The moment was a surprise to TV watchers book readers, however, had long speculated that Coldhands was an undead version of the Stark. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 63. Syrio Forel Played by: Miltos Yerolemou : Miltos Yerolemou The ill-fated Syrio's appearance way back in season one was a formative experience for one Arya Stark (Maisie Williams); he's the one who helped her on her way to becoming the vengeful assassin fans know and love today. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 62. Jeor Mormont Played by: James Cosmo : James Cosmo Father of Jorah Mormont, Jeor was an honourable leader of the Night's Watch perhaps to a fault. After giving Jon Snow the sword Longclaw, Mormont inadvertently showed the Stark bastard that Valerian steel can cut through White Walkers. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 61. Roose Bolton Played by: Michael McElhatton : Michael McElhatton Let's be honest: it's hard to really like as scheming a character as Roose Bolton, the man who orchestrated the violent Red Wedding the most infamous scene in the show's six-year history that saw the death of Robb, Catelyn and Talisa. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 60. Ellaria Sand Played by: Indira Varma : Indira Varma Ellaria Sand may have been a more enticing creation on the page, but in the series, her screen time regrettably amounts to reacting to loved ones being killed off in increasingly awful ways. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 59. Grand Maester Pycell Played by: Julian Glover : Julian Glover The secretly sprightly Pycell had seen a lot of things in his time, but there's an element of "unfulfilled potential" surrounding Glover's character whose late betrayal of Cersei Lannister saw a grisly end to his life of luxury at King's Landing. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 58. Three-Eyed Raven Played by: Max von Sydow : Max von Sydow Perhaps it was the casting of Max von Sydow that heightened anticipation for the Three-Eyed Raven in the series, but the half-hearted story arc left a lot to be desired. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 57. Gilly Played by: Hannah Murray : Hannah Murray Gilly's long journey from Craster's Keep to Winterfell sounds exciting on paper. But, unfortunately, she has been merely a passenger on Sam's journey for far too long. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 56. Daario Naharis Played by: Michael Huisman : Michael Huisman The man who won the heart of Daenerys Targaryen, only to be left behind in Essos. Ed Skrein originally played the character, but was soon replaced after the actor landed a role in Deadpool. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 55. Shae Played by: Sibel Kekilli : Sibel Kekilli Oh Shea. Her ill-fated betrayal sleeping with Tywin (Charles Dance) was a slap in the face not just for lover Tyrion, but the viewer also. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 54. Grey Worm Played by: Jacob Anderson : Jacob Anderson Leader of the Usullied, Grey Worm remains unmoved at all times unless around Missandei. While their romance can be heartwarming, it's hard to invest in two characters who are so wooden. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 53. Talisa Maegyr Played by: Oona Chaplin : Oona Chaplin To be fair to Robb Stark's wife Talisa, should she have avoided being murdered in arguably the most horrific way during the Red Wedding, she would most likely have been higher on this list. Alas. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 52. Shireen Baratheon Played by: Kerry Ingram : Kerry Ingram All the Greyscale-suffering Shireen ever wanted to do was read stories in her chamber, but due to her impressionable power-hungry father, Stannis, she was tragically reduced to ashes after being sacrificed to the Lord of Light. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 51. Viserys Targaryen Played by: Harry Lloyd : Harry Lloyd Viserys wanted the Iron Throne at any cost, giving away his own sister in exchange for an army. Dany, though, had other plans. Her new husband, Khal Drogo, covering Viserys in molten gold made for one of the show's most memorable death scenes. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 50. Maester Luwin Played by: Donald Sumpter : Donald Sumpter The kindly Maester Luwin was one of the nicest characters in the first few seasons, becoming a stand-in father for Bran and Rickon while the Starks endured horrors elsewhere. He was eventually killed when Ramsay Bolton took over Winterfell. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 49. Thoros of Myr Played by: Paul Kaye : Paul Kaye Thoros spent the majority of his time on the show resurrecting Beric and was most recently seen wielding his flaming sword alongside Jon Snow beyond the wall. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 48. Mance Rayder Played by: Ciaran Hinds : Ciaran Hinds Ciaran Hinds brought an intensity to Mance Rayder, a character who would otherwise have got lost in the crowd. As a result, his death at the hands of Melisandre was unexpectedly affecting. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 47. Podrick Payne Played by: Daniel Portman : Daniel Portman Ever loyal, Podrick Payne has become a fan favourite for being surprisingly brave in the face of adversity. He and Brienne of Tarth make an excellent duo. HBO/Helen Sloan Game of Thrones characters - ranked 46. Euron Greyjoy Played by: Pilou Asbk : Pilou Asbk While Euron Greyjoy may have only joined the show in season six, his presence was immediately felt. A wildcard character, Greyjoy's cut-throat, power-hungry nature has proven exciting to watch. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 45. Jaqen H'ghar Played by: Tom Wlaschiha : Tom Wlaschiha Jaqen H'ghar one of the Faceless Men of Braavos had such promise, but ultimately ended up being the one responsible for sapping Arya's story of the energy she'd had seasons before, alongside The Hound (Rory McCann). HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 44. Missandei Played by: Nathalie Emmanuel : Nathalie Emmanuel Missandei has somehow managed to come up trumps within the new world order, being an advisor to Dany. However, her stilted nature can make for some awkward encounters but at least she and Grey Worm are happy together. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 43. Ygritte Played by: Rose Leslie : Rose Leslie Ygritte the Wildling lover of Jon Snow will go down in Thrones lore for providing the series the with oft-quoted famous line: "You know nothing, Jon Snow." Spoken with a northern accent, obviously. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 42. Hot Pie Played by: Ben Hawkey : Ben Hawkey Has an actor ever been more suited to a role? Ben Hawkey, after all, has gone on to run a bakery of his own, even selling Thrones-themed goods. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 41. Walder Frey Played by: David Bradley : David Bradley One of the orchestrators of the Red Wedding, Walder Frey was a lurching, terrifying villain. When Arya unmasks herself and kills the old man, it's a sweet, sweet moment of revenge. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 40. Gendry Baratheon Played by: Joe Dempsie : Joe Dempsie The true heir to the Iron Throne. Gendry may have spent a few seasons rowing out at sea, but his return hints at big things to come for the Baratheon bastard. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 39. Robert Baratheon Played by: Mark Addy : Mark Addy Mark Addy brought a certain gravitas to Robert Baratheon, making him a believably world-weary king. Despite only having a few scenes, his character's presence is still felt on the show thanks to Gendry. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 38. Barristan Selmy Played by: Ian McElhinney : Ian McElhinney After being fired by the Lannisters, Selmy pledged allegiance to Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke), bridging the gap between two of the show's key characters. He was also a bloody good warrior. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 37. Yara Greyjoy Played by: Gemma Whelan : Gemma Whelan Lily Allen was initially wanted for the role of Theon's sister. However, she declined: 'I felt uncomfortable because I would have had to go on a horse and he would have touched me up and s***.' Seeing as Allen's brother, Alfie, had already been cast as Theon, it was probably for the best. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 36. Margaery Tyrell Played by: Natalie Dormer : Natalie Dormer Margaery Tyrell was one of Game of Thrones's biggest players, wheedling her way into the Lannister family politics and actually becoming Queen for a spell. Her number was up the moment she made an enemy of Cersei, and her fiery death, while underwhelming, was a huge moment. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 35. Samwell Tarly Played by: John Bradley : John Bradley There's a theory going around that Samwell Tarly, who trains as a maester, is actually the author of the Song of Ice and Fire AKA the book series. In other words, Sam is George RR Martin. Go figure. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 34. Osha Played by: Natalia Tena : Natalia Tena The underused Osha was our very first wildling, an unpredictable knife-wielding danger to the characters we loved. Her subsequent evolution into Stark servant was interestingly played, which made the fact she was sidelined for multiple seasons, before being brought back just to be unceremoniously offed, a travesty. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 33. Ramsay Bolton Played by: Iwan Rheon : Iwan Rheon Ramsey cut off Theon's penis and sent it to the Greyjoy's father. He imprisoned and raped Sansa Stark. He killed Rickon Stark in front of his brother. And Ramsay eventually died by being fed to his own dogs. A terrifying death for a terrible human. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 32. Night King Played by: Richard Brake, Vladimir Furdik : Richard Brake, Vladimir Furdik The embodiment of evil. Why, exactly, the Night King marches South to destroy mankind remains somewhat a mystery. But, whatever the reason, he's a terrifying foe. Winter has, as the Starks say, finally come. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 31. Beric Dondarrion Played by: Richard Dormer : Richard Dormer Beric danced on the outskirts of the series until its third season when he surfaced as the leader of the Brotherhood Without Banners. His introduction paved the way for the Lord of Light's ability to resurrect the dead, a mystical sub-plot that would become very important for Jon Snow. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 30. Bran Stark Played by: Isaac Hempstead Wright : Isaac Hempstead Wright It says a lot that Bran Stark has become marginally more interesting since he sacrificed his personality in favour of becoming the spiritualistic heart of the series. His role in the final season looks set to be a huge one what with the long-standing theory that he could become the fearsome Night King. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 29. Theon Greyjoy Played by: Alfie Allen : Alfie Allen While Theon starts as a cocky kid, after being neutered by Ramsay he becomes the annoyingly weak Reek. Thankfully, Theon comes back around again in the later seasons, but not without us still hating his guts for not saving Sansa sooner. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 28. The High Sparrow Played by: Jonathan Pryce : Jonathan Pryce While at first a seemingly wise old man, the High Sparrow quickly becomes a tactical villain, using his newfound powers under King Tommen to turn King's Landing into his own domain. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 27. The Mountain Played by: Hafor Julius Bjornsson : Hafor Julius Bjornsson The hulking Clegane brother known as The Mountain now a zombie-esque servant to Cersei may not have come face-to-face with lots of characters in the series, but his presence is known by all in Westeros. His biggest moment? Battering poor Oberyn's head into mush. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 26. Khal Drogo Played by: Jason Momoa : Jason Momoa To the world he's now Aquaman, but for a brief time, Jason Momoa was Khal Drogo, the beloved Dothraki husband of his Khaleesi, Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke). HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 25. Jon Snow Played by: Kit Harington : Kit Harington Every show needs a hero, and they do not come more obvious than Jon Snow. Rising from discarded bastard to King of the North, his climb has been one of the show's best storylines. A shame, then, that Snow can be such a bland person, doing only what is right and seemingly having no faults. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 24. Stannis Baratheon Played by: Stephen Dillane : Stephen Dillane With his propensity to make tough decisions for the greater good, Stannis could have been a heroic warrior. However, the Baratheon brother's continual fall from grace including sacrificing his own daughter and murdering his own brother were horrendous decisions that eventually doomed him. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 23. Hodor Played by: Kristian Nairn : Kristian Nairn Once you get over the fact that Kristian Nairn was essentially getting paid to repeat the word "Hodor" over and over, it's hard to deny that Bran Stark's protector was a heartwarming addition to the show. His death the breathtaking "Hold the Door" sequence will go down as one of the show's most memorable moments. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 22. Tywin Lannister Played by: Charles Dance : Charles Dance Stannis was a horrible father. His two favourite children became incestuous lovers, and he blamed his youngest for the death of his wife. Without Tywin, though, the Lannister family would not be nearly as riveting as they are to watch. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 21. Tormund Giantsbane Played by: Kristofer Hivju : Kristofer Hivju Tormund has some of the best lines in the series, particularly when expressing his admiration for Brienne. Here's one of the least explicit: "I want to make babies with her. Think of it. Great big monsters. They'll conquer the world!" HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 20. Daenerys Targaryen Played by: Emilia Clarke : Emilia Clarke "Daenerys Stormborn of the House Targaryen, First of Her Name, the Unburnt, Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, Breaker of Chains, and Mother of Dragons." Every time Dany meets someone new, she forces Missandei to read out her entire CV. I guess everyone would if theirs was as impressive. Dany really has had a great journey to the top a shame she could not have come to Westeros slightly earlier. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 19. Olenna Tyrell Played by: Dianna Rigg : Dianna Rigg Olenna's scenes were always ones to cherish. The Queen of Thorns was as cunning as the best of them and seemed like she could worm her way out of any situation, all from the comfort of her own chair. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 18. Jorah Mormont Played by: Iain Glen : Iain Glen Poor Ser Jorah. Dany may be 25 years younger than him, but that never stopped the disgraced warrior from loving her. He even fought off Grey Scale to fight by her side. If that's not true love, then what is? HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 17. Davos Seaworth Played by: Liam Cunningham : Liam Cunningham Liam Cunningham's performance as the curt Davos Seaworth has quietly been one of the best things about the series since his introduction. As Jon Snow's kingly advisor, he's recently seen himself thrust into the heart of the series and, simply put, Game of Thrones would be a less enjoyable show without him. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 16. Melisandre Played by: Carice van Houten : Carice van Houten Lest we forget that Melisandre is actually a shrivelled old witch who has been manipulating men for hundreds of years. Her faith in the Lord of Light, though, could very well be misplaced. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 15. Oberyn Played by: Pedro Pascal : Pedro Pascal Few shows can bring in characters midway through their run that have such an impact as Oberyn. The Viper quickly became a fan favourite, and his death remains one of the show's most squirm-inducing moments. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 14. Eddard "Ned" Stark Played by: Sean Bean : Sean Bean Killing off a main character during a show's first season was practically unheard of before Game of Thrones. Yet, as dictated by George RR Martin's books, they cut off Sean Bean's head without a second thought, setting the tone for everything to come. No death has impacted the Thrones quite as much since. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 13. Varys Played by: Conleth Hill : Conleth Hill Early on in the series, it was hard to pin down Varys, a slippery eel of a character who has "little birds" fluttering around Westeros, feeding back crucial information. Going into the final season, his true intentions are clear: he's all for Daenerys taking the Iron Throne, even if he doesn't live to see the day (I have to die in this strange country, just like you," Melisandre prophesied last season). HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 12. Bronn Played by: Jerome Flynn : Jerome Flynn Perhaps the show's best wise-cracking side-kick, Bronn only has one loyalty: money. Paired with either of the Lannister lads, Tyrion or Jaime, Bronn makes for excellent company. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 11. Robb Stark Played by: Richard Madden : Richard Madden Before Bodyguard, Richard Madden was the extremely temporary king of Westeros. Robb was a man of honour, trying to bring light to the Thrones universe. He was a likeable presence who ruled with his heart, an act that ultimately saw him die during the infamous Red Wedding in season three. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 10. Brienne of Tarth Played by: Gwendoline Christie : Gwendoline Christie Brienne is a reassuring force of good in a world filled with scheming layabouts. She's also one of the most deadly. Her time on the series has been spent protecting the likes of Renly Baratheon, Catelyn Stark and Jaime Lannister, the latter of which made for an interesting turn as it put her at odds with her loyalty. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 9. Petyr "Littlefinger" Baelish Played by: Aidan Gillen : Aidan Gillen There would be no Game of Thrones without Littlefinger. The silver-tongued manipulator had Jon Arryn killed, setting off a snowball that turned into an avalanche. As smart as he may have been, Littlefinger was finally outplayed by his own pupil, Sansa Stark. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 8. Sansa Stark Played by: Sophie Turner : Sophie Turner Sansa has perhaps had the most interesting story arc of any character on Thrones. Beginning as a cliched annoying teenager, she gradually became a stone-cold killer, capable of holding Winterfell and outsmarting even Littlefinger. With any luck, she could sit upon the Iron Throne when the war is over. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 7. Arya Stark Played by: Maisie Williams : Maisie Williams Arya Stark, arguably the greatest character of the first few seasons, was one of the biggest victims of the series overtaking George RR Martin's source material. Her limited screen time, due to being away from the central action, robbed us of classic moments that we're grateful she's been a part of in an otherwise lacklustre season eight. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 6. Sandor "The Hound" Clegane Played by: Rory McCann : Rory McCann From his regular delivery of the phrase"F** the king" to that chicken scene, The Hound is a reckless creation whose high ranking on this list can be attributed to the searing performance from Rory McCann. Most effective when paired with Arya Stark. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 5. Joffrey Baratheon Played by: Jack Gleeson : Jack Gleeson No character has been as hated by the fandom as Joffrey. His wicked ways and disgusting behaviour haunted the show's first four seasons. You never knew what was going to come next: whether he was about to behead your favourite character or start crying to his mother. It made for thrilling television. But, as The Hound says, "F**k the King". HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 4. Catelyn Stark Played by: Michelle Fairley : Michelle Fairley The lady of Winterfell, Catelyn Stark, became the show's honorary lead after the untimely beheading of her husband, Ned (Sean Bean) at the end of season one. As she tried to take control of spiralling events in the second and third run, Thrones was handed its most resilient character. Michelle Fairley's guttural cry of anguish before meeting her tragic end during the Red Wedding will always be the show's most horrific moment. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 3. Jaime Lannister Played by: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau : Nikolaj Coster-Waldau If the characters above Jaime in this list are the show's greatest characters, Jaime is the show's most disarming. The Lannister brother the Kingslayer started the series as a long-haired bad guy of the tallest order, but his humbling over the past few seasons have seen him inch his way into the hearts of viewers. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 2. Tyrion Lannister Played by: Peter Dinklage : Peter Dinklage Blamed for the death of his mother and hated for being a dwarf, Tyrion turned to drink and prostitutes to numb the pain. However, Tyrion has a fierce intellect, capable of outsmarting the toughest enemies (and offering cutting lines that George RR Martin says often take weeks to write). More importantly, despite being betrayed and cast away time and time again, Tyrion selflessly only wants the best for the people of Westeros. A true hero. HBO Game of Thrones characters - ranked 1. Cersei Lannister Played by: Lena Headey : Lena Headey The Mad Queen, alone on the Iron Throne. Cersei has, over the course of seven seasons, seen her three children die, driven her lover/brother away, blown up a church with a half dozen major characters inside, arranged the death of her husband (King Robert) and attempted to have her other brother (Tyrion) killed multiple times. Yet, thanks to Lena Headey's empathetic performance, you still feel sorry for the terrifying Queen of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. As one of the most complicated character to have ever reached television screens, there's no denying her place as the best Thrones character to date. HBO The show will be available on Sky Atlantic and NOW TV in the UK. A paper put together by eight European countries calling on the European Union to act now to address climate change has been snubbed by Germany, Italy and Poland, ahead of a summit in Romania this week. The meeting in the Romanian city of Sibiu was originally planned so leaders could chart a course for the EU after Brexit. But with the UKs EU departure deadline pushed back until the end of October, climate change is now at the top of the agenda. Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden have all called on European heads of state to boost climate action by pledging to cut greenhouse gas emissions to a net-zero level by 2050 at the latest, and also for the EU to dedicate 25 per cent of the next seven-year budget to projects fighting climate change. Excluding Britain, which is supposedly leaving the EU, and in any case appears set to make similar goals, Germany, Italy and Poland are among the biggest economies in the EU who are conspicuous by not signing the proposals. Climate change is a global challenge with profound implications for the future of humanity and our planet. Its impacts are already felt all across the EU, with for example the heat waves and scorching fires of last summer, the leaked paper says. Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Show all 12 1 /12 Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures In the protest that started a movement, Greta skips school to sit outside of the Swedish parliament in Stockholm in order to raise awareness of climate change on 28 August 2018 Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos on 25 January AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta stages a protest at the World Economic Forum in Davos on 25 January Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the House of Commons in London on 23 April PA Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses to the occupation at Marble Arch in London on 21 April AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta meets the pope on a visit to Rome Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the senate in Rome on 18 April Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses a debate of the EU Environment, Public Health and Food Safety committee at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on 16 April AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta receives the Special Climate Protection Award at the German Film and Television awards in Berlin on 30 March AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta attends a children's climate protest in Berlin on 29 March AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses a children's climate protest on 1 March in Hamburg Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta attends a meeting for the Civil Society For rEUnaissance at the EU Charlemagne Building in Brussels on 21 February AFP/Getty The fight against climate change requires an in-depth transformation of all the sectors of our economy, it adds, before detailing some prospective changes. These include recommending the EU should play a role in helping to develop new low emission industries, and redirecting spending. It is crucial to redirect the financial flows, both private and public, towards the climate action, the paper says. The EU budget currently under negotiation will be an important tool in this respect: at least 25 per cent of the spendings should go to projects aimed at fighting against climate change As a general principle, the EU budget should not finance any policy detrimental to this objective. But not all countries agree. Earlier this year, Germany, along with Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic moved to block an ambitious European Commission emissions reduction plan at an EU summit in Brussels. The plan requires countries to cut 95 per cent of emissions, with a further 5 per cent cut made up by funding emissions reductions outside the EU. We are heading towards climate breakdown, said Sebastian Mang, EU climate policy adviser at Greenpeace. But while some governments leaders are responding to the threat the German, Italian and Polish governments still have their heads firmly in the sand, he told Climate Home News. Meanwhile, the United Nations is also trying to force action. Its intergovernmental panel on climate change (IPCC) report last year warned we have just 12 years to make crucial reductions to carbon emissions in order to limit global warming to 1.5C. Currently the planet is on course to see 3-3.5C of warming, according to the UN. This week the UNs intergovernmental science-policy platform on biodiversity and ecosystem services (IPBES) report stated that since 1980, wild mammals have declined by 82 per cent, space for natural ecosystems has halved, and one million species are now at risk of extinction, all as a result of human action. The health of the ecosystems on which we and other species depend is deteriorating more rapidly than ever. We are eroding the very foundations of economies, livelihoods, food security, health and quality of life worldwide, said IPBES chairman Robert Watson. The UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres has called for a summit in September to discuss approaches to tackling climate change, and recently voiced his support to the school strikes for climate change movement led by Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg, as well as the Extinction Rebellion activists who have also carried out peaceful demonstrations around the world. These schoolchildren have grasped something that seems to elude many of their elders, Mr Guterres said. We are in a race for our lives, and we are losing. The window of opportunity is closing we no longer have the luxury of time, and climate delay is almost as dangerous as climate denial. Celebrities including Amy Schumer and Alyssa Milano are urging fans to boycott Wendy's, amid claims the American fast food chain does not provide its farmworkers with adequate protection. The call to action comes after Chance The Rapper tweeted about his liking for the restaurant's spicy chicken nuggets on Saturday. "Positive affirmations for today: I WILL have a good day, I WILL succeed today, Wendy's WILL bring back spicy nuggets at some point please please Lord let it be today," the rapper tweeted. Two days later, Wendy's announced it was bringing spicy chicken nuggets back to its menu, following Chance The Rapper's plea. While many fans of the fast food chain rejoiced in the news, comedian Schumer responded by highlighting Wendy's' alleged refusal to "protect farmworker women". "Hey! We love @chancetherapper and hate to be the ones to tell him that Wendy's is the only fast food chain refusing to protect farmworker women from sexual assault and rape in the fields. This is true. Please read that sentence again," the comedian wrote on Instagram. "Message for the people in charge: Instead of spicy nuggets, we want food that is harvested with dignity NOT violence." Schumer ended the caption by imploring Wendy's to join the Coalition of Immokalee Workers' Fair Food Programme, and asked fans to boycott the company. The Fair Food Programme, as stated on its website, is a "unique partnership among farmers, farmworkers, and retail food companies that ensures humane wages and working conditions for the workers who pick fruits and vegetables on participating farms". Companies that have partnered with the programme include McDonald's, Burger King, Whole Foods, Subway and Walmart. According to the Coalition of Immokalee Workers, Wendy's "stands alone" as one of the last largest food corporations in the US "who has refused to join the Fair Food Programme and respect the rights and dignity of farmworkers in its supply chain". The Fair Food Programme benefits around 35,000 labourers in the US and has helped to improve the working conditions for individuals in the tomato industry, the New York Times states. Charmed star Milano also criticised Wendy's for not joining the programme. "This is about sexual violence against women in the workplace, the only programme proven to end that violence in the US agricultural industry, and your refusal to join that programme, plain and simple," the actor and activist wrote on Instagram. Wendy's has since issued a response, stating that all of its suppliers must follow the company's Supplier Code of Conduct, which "includes requirements to human rights and labour practices". "This is a complex issue, but be assured that we do not purchase the field grown product that the Fair Food Programme covers. In fact, Wendys is proud to only purchase tomatoes from indoor hydroponic North American farms," the statement reads, according to Delish. "We are excited about the superior quality of these tomatoes, and this move further strengthens our commitment to responsible sourcing practices by providing safe, indoor working conditions, shelter from the elements and environmental contaminants, reduced water and land use burdens, and a significantly reduced need for chemical pesticides." The Duchess of Sussex has made her first public appearance since giving birth to her son wearing a dress designed by British fashion designer Grace Wales Bonner. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry introduced their son to the world for the first time on Wednesday at Windsor Castle. Meghan posed in a sleeveless white double-breasted dress by Wales Bonner that featured a tie-waist and brown buttons. Wales Bonner graduated from Central St Martins in 2014, shortly before launching her eponymous brand. In 2015, the fashion designer was awarded the Emerging Menswear Designer accolade at the British Fashion Awards, having originally launched her label as a menswear brand. Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Show all 21 1 /21 Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/Reuters Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Meghan paired the dress with Manolo Blahniks Sandy Beige Pointed Toe Pumps and wore her hair loose. The newborn was swaddled in a white blanket by G.H. Hurt & Son and wearing a white hat. Speaking in St George's Hall, Harry held their two-day-old child as Meghan said: It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. "He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm." As they both laughed, Harry said: "I don't know who he gets that from." Meghan added: "He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days." Royal fans have praised the new mother for emphasising her post-baby bump, with one person tweeting: "I LOVE the fact Meghan Markle still has her post-partum bump going on." Another added: "I know nothing about being pregnant but I enjoy the fact that Meghan Markle is showing off her post-baby bump so prominently with that belted dress." The dress Meghan wore for the photocall with her newborn is similar to one she wore for a visit to the Nelson Mandela Centenary Exhibition in London in July 2018. For the engagement, the duchess wore a blush pink sleeveless dress by Canadian brand House of Nonie. The duchess finished the look with matching stiletto heels and the Mulberry England Clifton Shoulder Bag in blush calfskin. The last time Meghan was seen in public was in March when she visited the New Zealand High Commission in London to sign the Book of Condolence following terrorist attacks in Christchurch. (Dominic Lipinski/AP) The duchess wore an oversized black coat designed by Gucci and cut-out Aquazzura heels for the occasion. Her last official appearance was at Commonwealth Day service with other members of the royal family. The duchess wore a cream Victoria Beckham dress and a matching pillbox hat for the occasion, which was held at Westminster Abbey. (Dominic Lipinski/AP) Meghan gave birth to her first child early on the morning of Monday 6 May. The couple announced the news on Instagram (under their @sussexroyal account), saying: We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses son weighs 7lbs. 3oz." A London-based craft beer company is offering members of the public free beer in exchange for blood donations. Beavertown Brewery, in Tottenham, north London, is offering craft beer lovers the chance to try its re-launched Bloody Ell Blood Orange IPA for free. The company will provide glasses of the blood orange-infused beer to the first 500 people who visit the brewery from 2pm on Saturday 25 May and can prove they have signed up to be a blood donor. Beavertown says the remastered Bloody Ell beer features a juicy malt bill combined with citrusy, hoppy top notes". The brewery decided to launch the scheme after the NHS Blood & Transplant Service appealed to men in particular to give blood earlier this year after figures revealed there were more than twice as many female donors as male donors in England in 2018. The poshest beers Show all 10 1 /10 The poshest beers The poshest beers Budweiser Budweiser, famous for its bullfrog adverts, came in 5th. 38 per cent of those who buy the beer are middle class. Spencer Platt/Getty Images The poshest beers Peroni Italian beer Peroni topped the list, as 50 per cent of its customers are middle class Jason Carter Rinaldi/Getty Images for Peroni The poshest beers Heineken Dutch beer Heineken came second. 45 per cent of its customers are middle class. Getty Images The poshest beers Kronenbourg 1664 Tastemaker Alex James joins the celebrations of the 350th anniversary of the first Kronenbourg brewery at Le Cafe Du Marche Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images for Kronenbourg The poshest beers Beck's Beck's, a German beer, came 4th with 38 per cent of its customers being middle class The poshest beers A Belgian beer, Stella Artois came 6th with 36 per cent Mark Renders/Getty Image The poshest beers 35 per cent of the customers of Dutch beer Grolsch are middle class Piutus/Flickr CC The poshest beers Fosters lager Australian beer Fosters came in 8th. 33 per cent of its customers are in the AB social group GREG WOOD/AFP/Getty Images The poshest beers Carling 31 per cent of Carling customers are middle class Graeme Robertson/Getty Images The poshest beers Carlsberg came join last with Carling, with 31 per cent. Niklas Morberg/ Flickr CC According to the NHS Blood & Transplant Service, mens blood has different characteristics to womens blood. It says that mens blood can contain fewer antibodies against red and white blood cells because women often make these antibodies during pregnancy. Recommended 17 best beer and cider subscription boxes This means male blood can be more suitable for creating blood products used to treat patients. Mike Stredder, director of Blood Donation for NHS Blood and Transplant, said at the time: Its vital that more men start donating blood because their blood is used to provide life-saving products like plasma and platelets to save victims of burns, car crashes and treat to patients with cancer. Were incredibly grateful to all our female donors who are vital in providing lifesaving blood to those in need. But we need men to catch up with recent recruitment because their blood can have different characteristics which can make it important in certain situations. Speaking of the new campaign, Beavertown Brewerys brand manager, Sam Millard, added: Giving blood is something all of us would like to get behind, from our staff, friends and family and our customers whose lives have been saved by blood donations. The NHS says we need 400 new donors every single day to keep up with demand so by celebrating Bloody Ell with this bloody twist, we want to smash that 400 target. Were giving craft beer fans who havent got around to giving blood another great reason to sign up and book in their appointments. You can sign up to donate blood here or show up to register on the day. Pete Lau is the CEO of the popular and well-loved smartphone brand, OnePlus. The OnePlus 6T brought striking new technologies and design to a phone that costs much less than the flagship phones from Samsung or Apple. On 14 May, the company will unveil its next products and for the first time this is likely to mean more than one phone. Inevitably, one of these will be its 5G phone. So, when I met Lau in London, looking relaxed and dapper in a finely knitted Moncler jacket and pale grey pants, 5G was front and centre. My suspicion is that people are suffering from sequel fatigue, feeling that 4G was okay for a time but seems not to deliver any more. What, really, is 5G for, I wonder? Lau is intensely thoughtful, a gentle smile on his lips as he answers. The most obvious difference will be increased speed. And some people may say 4G is fast enough, but the consumer requirement for speed is based on what they have an awareness of. For example, there's still a concept that a download is a process with a time requirement but when we get to the right level of speed, a download will just be an instantaneous experience. "That's what we will have when the device in your hands and the cloud are acting as one experience. By that point it will be cloud services and functionality being used by everyone. Its true that perhaps 10 or 12 years ago with the 3G era we wouldnt have thought we could stream video at high quality. But Lau is saying that 5G will offer much more than this. In five to 10 years, there is a possibility of a super-knowledgeable assistant that will be enabled for each person, based on the cloud functionality and that combination of cloud, 5G and artificial intelligence. All very well, but handsets need to change to make all this possible, especially in terms of how the new 5G antenna influences design. Lau concedes this is a challenge. It is significantly harder in design terms, particularly in the antenna design front. The higher bands and the signal strength mean the expectations of the CPU and the chipset and also much higher. So that level of complexity and expectation. also results in the technology and the components making the device more expensive. Those 5G frequencies are much higher than on 4G, especially when you get to something called millimetre wave, which can carry huge amounts of data at very high speed and little or no lag. But operating a much higher frequencies adds complications. With our 4G devices, a lot could be using say 2.5 gigahertz (GHz) or even under 1 GHz. But with millimetre wave were looking at maybe 20 or 30 GHz, that kind of frequency. "For example, Lau continues as he picks up a current phone, With this OnePlus phone here, the antenna will be metallic and can be wrapped around, but the millimetre wave antenna, at least in current technology form, is actually a chip. A chip of decent size that would go in the device So there would be multiple separate chips which take more space. If you cast your mind back to the first 3G phones, they were significantly bigger and heavier than the 2G ones before them. It looks like 5G might have the same growth effect. The 5G chips impact the size of overall design, they have to be oriented in a certain direction. So, they need to be a certain distance from the other antenna chips. While our current phones use a glass back, you couldn't just use that directly, necessarily, with 5G. It would have to be of a particular thickness to work. We look at materials for the device, including glass, and explore what can be least impactful on the signal as possible. Our challenge is in terms of keeping the design manageable and attractive. OnePlus is known for its determination to listen to its customers, who form a highly motivated and loyal community. For us, it's always about going back and standing in the shoes of our users to understand what they expect in our devices. "For example, they want the battery to last longer. To address this particular need, we could increase the battery size and make the device thicker but from our perspective this isn't a best plan of action. Our customers want a device that is thin and light, but they also want it to last all day. That's the ideal device. But 5G brings the challenge of a phone that's harder to keep at the same size. "From the user perspective what you want in a 5G device is something that represents the next generation technology as well as having the excellence of device design they've come to expect. It would be easy to create a workable 5G solution that would be. thick and ugly but that wouldn't be what's ultimately desired. So, for example, if the engineers say that the thickness of the antenna piece can be no smaller than 8mm, but I'm saying we need it to be 4mm or less, then its a very significant challenge that will be placed back to them. The most recent OnePlus phone doesnt have a 3.5mm headphone jack. Is it gone forever from most phones, perhaps? It looks like that's the trend. We've seen that the market for wireless headphones has increased very dramatically. I'm personally getting used to wireless headphones on a daily basis and to go back to wired ones would be hard. "For some trends, they are sort of set in motion and there's not one particular group that can stop that trend from moving forward. Though, at the same time, I understand that there are those who love their pair of wired headphones and their level of sound quality. During the transition from film to digital cameras I had friends who are very much into photography and they said no to digital. But today all of them are using digital cameras. There's some parallel to be drawn there. So close to the companys forthcoming announcement, its no surprise that Lau is cagey about whats on the way, but I think we can expect a 5G handset that isnt bloated or heavy, and almost certainly wont have a headphone jack. Google has unveiled the Pixel 3a and 3a XL, its brand new, cheaper phones. It follows the Pixel 3's release late last year, and is intended as a way for people to get their hands on much of the same technology at a vastly reduced price. But despite that much lower cost, the new phones still retains much of the same technology that made the Pixel 3 so beloved by critics. Here's exactly what has changed, what stayed the same, what the specs are and how much it will actually cost. Price The new phones' key selling point and the main thing that sets it apart from the Pixel 3 is the price. The 3a starts at 399 and the 3a XL starts at 469. That's nearly half the price of their bigger siblings: the 3 starts at 739 and the 3 XL costs at least 869. Those same price differences will be reflected across different markets and on pay monthly plans, too. Release date The phone is available to buy immediately, and is being sold in the UK by Google itself as well as other retailers including EE and Argos. What's changed from the Pixel 3? The first thing to mention is that there's nothing new in the Pixel 3a that wasn't there in the Pixel 3. The only extra thing it has is the return of the headphone jack, which disappeared on the Pixel 3. So the only real advantage the new phone has over the old one is the price though that of course is fairly significant. There are some features slashed from the Pixel 3 to get to that cheaper price, and some specs have been downgraded. In full, they are: a slightly slower processor, the removal of the selfie cam that allows you to zoom out extra wide and get everyone into a picture, the lack of wireless charging, slightly less high-powered speakers, and no water resistance. The screen sizes are also slightly different. The display on the 3a XL is smaller than its more premium counterpart at 6-inches and is a slightly lower definition and the display on the standard 3a is a little bigger than the Pixel 3 at 5.6-inches. You also miss out on the option to upgrade your storage. The Pixel 3 range allows people to buy up to 128GB of space but the 3a is stuck at 64GB. What stays the same? Everything else from the display to the memory is unchanged. Even the external design is so similar that you can only spot it from the minor tweaks on the outside, like the added headphone jack and the lack of lens for the selfie camera. So what are the specs? For your (reduced) money, you get a whole host of decent if downgraded specs. The screens are both FHD+ OLED displays, the phones have Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 processors, they have 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. On the back is a 12 megapixel dual-pixel camera, just like on the Pixel 3. What else do you get for your money? As well as all of the specs, Google has promised that the 3a and 3a XL will receive three years of security and operating system upgrades. That's intended as a way of stressing that this phone won't be left out in the cold despite its cheaper price and the fact that its processors could become too slow for new updates more quickly. In May 2019, Buckingham Palace revealed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had named their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The name was also announced on the royal couples official Instagram account, alongside a picture of the new family of three with the Queen, Duke of Edinburgh and the duchess mother, Doria Ragland. So, as Archie celebrates his first birthday on 6 May, what is the meaning behind the one-year-olds moniker? On Archies birth certificate, it does not state that his name is short for Archibald. However, Archie is a derivative of the name. Archibald is derived from the Germanic elements ercan, meaning genuine, and bald, meaning bold. Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Show all 21 1 /21 Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/Reuters Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/PA Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP Royal baby photos: First pictures of Meghan and Harry's child Dominic Lipinski/AP The name became popularised in Scotland during the Middle Ages. Medieval forms of the name include the Old High German Erchambold, and the Anglo-Saxon Eorcenbald. The babys middle name, Harrison, is of particular significance for the childs father, Prince Harry. As is implied by the structure of the name, it means son of Harry. The name Harrison, predominantly used as a surname, is of English origin, increasing in popularity in the US in recent years. Prince Harry and Meghans choice to use the name as one of the royal babys monikers thus highlights the connection the Sussexes have forged between the UK and the US through their partnership. High-profile individuals with whom the baby shares its middle name include Star Wars actor Harrison Ford, Beatles guitarist George Harrison and the 23rd US president Benjamin Harrison. No British monarch of Great Britain has ever been named Archie or Harrison. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures Show all 55 1 /55 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2017 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at the Invictus Games in Toronto, Canada. The Invictus Games is an international sport event for wounded, injured and sick (WIS) servicemen and women, both serving and veteran. It was created by the Duke of Sussex and aims to use the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding of all those who serve their country Invictus Games Foundation/Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures November 2017 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle pose for a photograph in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace following the announcement of their engagement AFP/Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures November 2017 Meghan Markle shows off her engagement ring AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures December 2017 Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry attend Christmas Day Church service at Church of St Mary Magdalene in King's Lynn Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures January 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan during a visit to Reprezent 107.3FM in Pop Brixton. The Reprezent training programme was established in Peckham in 2008, in response to the alarming rise in knife crime, to help young people develop and socialise through radio Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures January 2018 Meghan Markle greets well-wishers on arrival at Cardiff Castle for a day showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Wales AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures January 2018 The couple watching a dance performance by Jukebox Collective during their to Cardiff Castle AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures February 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle walk through the corridors of the Palace of Holyroodhouse on their way to a reception for young people in Edinburgh. The reception celebrated youth achievements, marking Scotlands Year of Young People 2018, an initiative that aims to inspire Scotland through its young people: celebrating their achievements, strengthening their voice on social issues and creating new opportunities for them to shine AFP Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures February 2018 Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William at the first annual Royal Foundation Forum in London. Under the theme 'Making a Difference Together', the event showcased the programmes run or initiated by The Royal Foundation Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures March 2018 Prince William, Kate, Meghan and Prince Harry attend a Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures March 2018 Meghan Markle greets well-wishers after a visit to one of Belfast's most historic buildings, The Crown Liquor Saloon, a former Victorian gin palace, now run by the National Trust. It was the Royal couple's first joint visit to Northern Ireland AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures April 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle meet participants as they attend the UK team trials for the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 at the University of Bath AFP via Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2018 Meghan Markle and her mother, Doria Ragland arriving at Cliveden House Hotel the night before her wedding to Prince Harry Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2018 Royal fans sing for the television in Windsor the day before the Royal wedding AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2018 Meghan Markle walks down the aisle in St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, during her wedding AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stand facing each other hand-in-hand before Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby during their wedding ceremony AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2018 Prince Harry kisses the Duchess of Sussex, as they pass through the Cambridge Gate into the grounds of Windsor Castle at the end of their carriage procession AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2018 The newly married royals leave Windsor Castle after their wedding to attend an evening reception at Frogmore House AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures June 2018 Queen Elizabeth II sitts and laughs with Meghan, Duchess of Sussex during a ceremony to open the new Mersey Gateway Bridge in the town of Widnes in Halton, Cheshire Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures June 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan return in a horse-drawn carriage after attending the Queen's Birthday Parade, 'Trooping the Colour' on Horseguards parade AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures July 2018 Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Queen Elizabeth II, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge watch the RAF flypast on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, as members of the Royal Family attend events to mark the centenary of the RAF Chris Jackson/Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures July 2018 Meghan and Prince Harry kiss after the Sentebale Polo event that was held at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures August 2018 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex meet the cast and crew of "Hamilton" backstage after the gala performance in support of Sentebale at Victoria Palace Theatre Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2018 Meghan meets 7-year-old Matilda Booth during the annual WellChild awards at Royal Lancaster Hotel in London Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan meet 98-year-old Daphne Dunne during a meet and greet at the Sydney Opera House during an official 16-day Autumn tour visiting cities in Australia, Fiji, Tonga and New Zealand Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan meet a koala named Ruby and its koala joey named Meghan after the Duchess of Sussex during a visit to Taronga Zoo in Sydney AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Prince Harry looks on as his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, is hugged by student Luke Vincent of Buninyong Public School following the couple's arrival at Dubbo Regional Airport in Dubbo AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Harry and his wife Meghan watch aboriginal dances at Victoria Park in Dubbo AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex meet with lifeguards at South Melbourne Beach. BeachPatrol is a network of volunteers who are passionate about keeping Melbourne's beaches and foreshores clear of litter to reduce the negative impact of litter on the marine environment and food chain, and provide a safe environment for the public to enjoy their local beach Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan join a circle during a "Fluro Friday" session run by OneWave, a local surfing community group who raise awareness for mental health and wellbeing, at Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach AFP Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 The British royals kicked off their shoes and donned tropical garlands on Bondi Beach AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan visit an exhibition of Tongan handicrafts, mats and tapa cloths at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre in Nuku'alofa, Tonga Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Prince Harry and Meghan laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in Wellington, New Zealand Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2018 Prince Harry and his wife Meghan visit Redwoods Tree Walk in Rotorua AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures November 2018 Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex at a service marking the centenary of WW1 armistice at Westminster Abbey Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures February 2019 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, visit the Kasbah of the Udayas near the Moroccan capital Rabat AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures March 2019 Prince Harry and Meghan speak on stage during WE Day UK 2019 at The SSE Arena in London Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures March 2019 Meghan and Prince Harry react as they are presented with baby gifts by Canadian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Janice Charette, at Canada House, during an event to mark Commonwealth Day, in central London AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2019 A congratulatory banner message circling the BT Tower reading "Congratulations Harry and Meghan It's a Baby Boy!" AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2019 Footmen Stephen Kelly and Sarah Thompson set up an official notice on an easel at the gates of Buckingham Palace on May 6, announcing the birth of a son to Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2019 Pround parents pose with their newborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 5:26 on 6 May Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures May 2019 Prince Harry and Meghan walk away after posing for photographs with their newborn son AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures June 2019 Prince Harry and Meghan join the New York Yankees in their clubhouse and receive gifts for Archie ahead of their match against the Boston Red Sox at the London Stadium. The historic two-game series marked the sport's first games ever played in Europe and The Invictus Games Foundation was selected as the official charity of Mitel and MLB London Series 2019 Invictus Games Foundation/Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures July 2019 Prince Harry and Meghan meet cast and crew, including US singer-songwriter Beyonce and her husband, US rapper Jay-Z as they attend the European premiere of the film The Lion King in London AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2019 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex dance as they arrive for a visit to the "Justice desk", an NGO in the township of Nyanga in Cape Town, as they begin their tour of the region. Their first official family visit in the coastal city AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2019 Prince Harry and Meghan pose with members of "Waves For Change" NGO at Monwabisi Beach outside of Cape Town. "Waves For Change" NGO fuses surfing with child-friendly mind and body therapy to provide mental health services to vulnerable young people living in challenging communities AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2019 The royals arrive to visit the oldest mosque of Cape Town in Dorp Street in Bo Kaap district AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2019 The Duchess of Sussex visits Auwal Mosque on Heritage Day with the Duke of Sussex during their royal tour of South Africa. Auwal Mosque is the first and oldest mosque in South Africa and for the Muslim community, this mosque symbolises the freedom of former slaves to worship Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2019 Prince Harry and Meghan hold their baby son Archie as they meet with Archbishop Desmond Tutu and his wife Leah at the Tutu Legacy Foundation in Cape Town AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures September 2019 The British royal couple were on a 10-day tour of southern Africa -- their first official visit as a family since their son Archie was born AFP via Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2019 Prince Harry and Meghan meet Graca Machel, widow of the late Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg, South Africa. The Duke last met with Mrs Machel during his visit to South Africa in 2015 Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures October 2019 Meghan and Prince Harry attend a roundtable discussion on gender equality with The Queens Commonwealth Trust (QCT) and One Young World at Windsor Castle Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures December 2019 Prince Harry holding his son Archie. The photo was used on Instagram to wish their followers a happy new year SussexRoyal/PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures January 2020 Duke and Duchess of Sussex depart Canada House in London after visiting to show thanks for the warm hospitality and support they received during their recent stay in Canada Getty Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in pictures January 2020 Front page headlines, from UK daily papers, reporting on the news that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, plan to step back as "senior" members of the Royal Family AFP via Getty As for the babys surname, the royal family states that some members of the family often do not have one. However, it was confirmed that the babys surname is Mountbatten-Windsor. In 1917, the reigning King George V chose Windsor as the surname of the royal family. Recommended Meghan Markle and Prince Harry biography to be released this summer During a meeting of the Privy Council on 17 July 1917, the monarch stated that all descendants in the male line of Queen Victoria, who are subjects of these realms, other than female descendants who marry or who have married, shall bear the name of Windsor. In 1960, eights years after Queen Elizabeth IIs ascension to the throne, she and the Duke of Edinburgh decided that some of their descendants would be distinguished by the double-barrelled surname Mountbatten-Windsor. The announcement from the Queen stated: My descendants other than descendants enjoying the style, title or attribute of Royal Highness and the titular dignity of Pince or Princess and female descendants who marry and their descendants shall bear the name of Mountbatten-Windsor. Following his birth, it was revealed that Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor will not be granted any courtesy titles by the Queen, in accordance with Prince Harry and Meghans wishes. The first photographs of the baby were released taken at St Georges Hall in Windsor Castle. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have welcomed their second child, a daughter named Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor. Since the 1970s, several members of the royal family have given birth at the Lindo Wing at St Marys Hospital in London. But for her first child, Meghan Markle chose, instead, to give birth at home in Windsor Castle, following a Buckingham Palace announcement that the couple had planned to keep details surrounding the royal birth private until they had an opportunity to celebrate privately as a family. Following the couples decision to step down from their roles in the royal family and move to the US, the duchess has given birth to their second child, born on 4 June, at a hospital in California. As of now, the duke and duchess have not shared any photos of their newborn, with it unlikely that they will participate in the posed photoshoots typical of royal parents following the births of royal babies. While royal fans wait for a glimpse of the latest addition to the royal family, it is worth looking back at some of the first moments the world set eyes on former royal babies. The royal tradition of posing on the steps outside the exclusive maternity wing began with Princess Anne in 1977, who was shortly followed by Diana, Princess of Wales in 19821 and Kate Middleton in 2013. (Rex Features) (PA) (Rex Features ) The Duke of Cambridge and Kate Middleton have welcomed all three of their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis into the world at the prestigious location. (Getty Images ) (Getty Images ) For each new arrival, Middleton chose a different Jenny Packham dress the first was a pale blue polka dot shift dress, followed by white floral number and a red dress that many speculated was an ode to her late mother-in-law. (Getty Images ) However, one of the most memorable moments of the Lindo Wing births came from an unlikely source. Following the birth of Prince Louis in 2018, the newborns siblings came to visit their mother and, at just two-years-old, Princess Charlotte proved she had already mastered a key element of her regal role the royal wave by confidently gesturing to the crowd. George Clooney has joked that the royal baby "stole his thunder", after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's first child was born on his birthday. On Monday 6 May, the Hollywood actor turned 58. Meanwhile, Meghan gave birth to her and Prince Harry's son in the early hours of the morning in Windsor. While speaking on American talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Tuesday evening, Clooney aired his faux annoyance over having to share a birthday with the newest member of the royal family. "That kid stole my thunder! [That's] my birthday!" the Ocean's 11 star quipped as the audience laughed. Recommended Latest updates on the royal baby Jimmy Kimmel then asked Clooney whether he could be in the running to become the baby's godfather, given he and his wife Amal Clooney's close friendship with Prince Harry and Meghan. "That would be a bad idea," the actor responded. "I'm a father of twins and I can barely do that." Clooney added that he is very unlikely to be named the baby's godfather. "I can promise you that," he stated. Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Show all 15 1 /15 Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal super fans John Loughery (centre) pops the cork on a bottle of champagne AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy A man dressed as a town crier outside Windsor Castle in Berkshire following the news PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal fans outside Windsor Castle in Berkshire after Buckingham Palace announced the news of the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's new baby boy PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Prince Harry speaks to the media after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to a baby boy Reuters Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal super fan Anne Daley poses with baby-themed balloons near Windsor Castle AFP/Getty Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy A notice placed on an easel in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace in London to formally announcing the birth PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal fans celebrate outside Windsor Castle PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy A man makes an announcement outside Windsor Castle Reuters Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal fan Skye London celebrates the birth of Prince Harry's son AFP/Getty Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal super fans John Loughery (left) and Anne Daley pose with Union flags and baby-themed balloons AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy EPA While appearing at the premiere of Catch-22 on Tuesday, a satirical comedy miniseries in which he stars, Clooney urged for the public to be kind towards the duchess. "I think people should be a little kinder. She's a young woman who just had a baby," he said. The actor's statement echoes comments he's previously made about Meghan, in which he compared the treatment of the duchess to that of the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Shes a woman who is seven months pregnant and she has been pursued and vilified and chased in the same way that Diana was and its history repeating itself, Clooney told Australian magazine WHO. Weve seen how that ends." For all the latest on the royal baby, follow The Independent's live blog here. British people are having less sex than in previous years, with scientists blaming the decline on the internet and the busyness of modern life. According to new data, fewer than half of Britons have sex at least once a week, and rates are dwindling. The steepest declines were among people over the age of 25 and those who were married or living together, said researchers from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. They analysed data for more than 34,000 men and women aged 16 to 44 who completed the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles in 1991 (Natsal-1), 2001 (Natsal-2) and 2012 (Natsal-3). The data showed a general decline in sexual activity in Britain between 2001 and 2012, with the steepest declines among the over-25s and those who were married or living together. Love and sex news: in pictures Show all 31 1 /31 Love and sex news: in pictures Love and sex news: in pictures What makes a perfect penis? Scientists have now answered one of these great unknowns. According to a new study, general cosmetic appearance is the most important penile aspect when it comes to what women value down there. This is swiftly followed by the appearance of pubic hair, penile skin, and girth. Length comes in at number six, with the look of the scrotum trailing closely behind. The least important facet of the phallus, say the scientists, is the position and shape of meatus, the vertical slit at the opening of the urethra. Getty Love and sex news: in pictures Half of divorcees had doubts on their wedding day Over half of divorcees considered abandoning their husband or wife-to-be at the altar on their wedding day, a new study has revealed. On top of likely worrying about wedding favours and making sure guests behave on their big day, 49 per cent of divorcees admitted they were unsure before the ceremony that their marriage would last. Some 15 per cent of divorcees polled said they were so wracked with doubt that they felt physically sick in the run up to their wedding. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures Students who marry after studying the same subject Picking a university subject is already difficult enough for young people. But heres an extra piece of data to weigh on your decision: you may be picking a life partner as well. Dan Kopf of the blog, Priceonomics, analysed US Census data and found that the percentage of Americans who marry someone within their own major is actually fairly high. About half of Americans are married, according to the 2012 American Community Survey (part of the Census). And about 28 per cent of married couples over the age of 22 both graduated from college. (The survey didnt recognise same-sex marriages for the 2012 data, but it will for 2013 onwards, says Kopf). Sean Gallup/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures How much sex we have (and how much we'd like) As a nation, we dont have as much sex as we would like, a survey has (somewhat unsurprisingly) confirmed. In a poll of 1523 people by YouGov, 64 per cent of Britons said they would wish to have sex at least a few times a month. The same sample said that only 38 per cent had sex at least a few times a month. In addition, 10 per cent said they wished to have sex every day, a goal which only 1 per cent admitted reaching. Rex Love and sex news: in pictures The new female condom Picture an internal condom. The chances are youre thinking of something which resembles a carrier bag. However, this could all be about to change with the new VA w.o.w. Condom Feminine. Not only is it a wireless, Bluetooth enabled, vibrating interactive device, which comes available in the shape of a heart, but the manufacturers think youll love it more than not using a condom at all. Love and sex news: in pictures One in five Brits admit to having had an affair One in five British adults admits they have had an affair, according to a new poll. 20 per cent of male respondents and 19 per cent of female respondents admitted to having had an affair in a new poll of 1660 respondents by YouGov. Orlando /Three Lions/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures The UK's favourite sex position Casting aside the myth that Brits are a prudish bunch, a new survey has revealed that doggy style is the nations favourite sex position. As many as a quarter of UK adults surveyed said doggy style was their favourite way to indulge with a partner. Missionary, which is sometimes scoffed at the most boring position, was favoured by a fifth of the 1,000 people surveyed by high street sex shop Ann Summers, seeing it come in as third under "woman on top". Caiaimage/REX Love and sex news: in pictures Who's most likely to cheat? Men and women who are economically dependent on their spouses are more likely to cheat, a new study has revealed. Researchers have found that men who are solely financially dependent are more like to cheat than women, at 15 per cent and 5 per cent respectively. Men who are rely on their wives may cheat because they are undergoing a masculinity threat by not being the primary breadwinner as is culturally expected, said study author Christin L. Munsch, a UConn assistant professor of sociology. Eye Candy/REX Love and sex news: in pictures Jailed for loud sex noises A woman who breached a court order barring her from causing nuisance by making "loud sex noises" was sent to jail. Gemma Wale, of Small Heath, Birmingham, was given a two-week prison sentence after a civil court judge concluded that she had breached the order by "screaming and shouting whilst having sex" at a "level of noise" which annoyed a neighbour. Rex Features Love and sex news: in pictures Photo of wedding guest proposing to girlfriend in front of bride and groom goes viral When the staggering amount time, money, and effort that goes into to planning a wedding is considered, it seems pretty obvious that all guests have is to do is turn up with some gifts, and not upstage the couple. But this fact seems to have escaped one man, whose grinning face has gone viral after he decided to propose to his girlfriend in front of the bride and grooms top table. The photo, which has been viewed over 1.4 million times on Reddit, shows a boyfriend perched on one knee in front of his crying girlfriend. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures Sexual fantasies The results of a sex survey are busting the myth that Britons are sexually repressed, by revealing how the majority of women have lived out their sexual fantasies. As many as 81 per cent of women and 77 per cent of men have shared and acted out fantasies with a partner with having sex in public topping the list of turn-ons. The study also laid bare the influence of TV and film on our desires, with three-quarters of couples saying they had inspired them. Meanwhile, a further three quarters of women and over half of men have played out a fantasy theyd found in a book. LEO RAMIREZ/AFP/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures The world's sexiest nationalities Irish men are the worlds sexiest, according to a survey of thousands of jet-setting women. In a poll of 66,000 of single American women who use MissTravel.com, as many as 8,000 said that Irish men are the sexiest. Around half of the females who took said they were turned on by Irish men said their accent influenced their choice, according to the Irish Times. ANDREW COWIE/AFP/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures More sex = happiness? Couples were asked to double the amount of sex they had each week over a three month period by researchers at the Carnegie Mellon University, who compared them to couples who had their normal amount of sex. Their findings, published in the Journal of Economic Behavior, went against advice given by the average self-help book having more sex doesnt automatically make a person happier. Instead, couples who were instructed to have more sex reported a decrease in happiness levels. Mood Board/Rex Love and sex news: in pictures Most sexually satisfied countries It is often considered the most amorous nation on the planet, but France doesn't even feature in a new list of the most sexually satisfied countries. According to a Durex global survey of 26,000 people, aged 16 and older, across 26 countries, only 44 per cent of people are fully satisfied with their sex lives. In the wake of these results, AlterNet has compiled a list of the 12 most sexually satisfied countries, with Switzerland, Spain and Italy topping the list. INDRANIL MUKHERJEE/AFP/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures Sex o'clock They say women are from Venus and men are from Mars but a new sex survey suggests that members of the opposite sex seem to operate in different time zones too. While women like to get steamy between 11:21pm on average, men are more likely to be turned on at the rather inconvenient time of 7:54am. These times fall into the broader timeslots of 11pm and 2am for women, and 6am and 9am for men. PIERRE ANDRIEU/AFP/Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures More sex = more money People who have more sex are likely to earn more, new research claims. The research, partly conducted from the responses of 7,500 people, found employees who have sex two or three times a week earn 4.5 per cent more than colleagues who do not. Rex Love and sex news: in pictures The effects of watching porn Contrary to suggestion that porn desensitises viewers to sex, a study has found that it doesn't "negatively impact sexual functioning" and in fact boosts couples' sexual attraction to one another. In research published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, scientists at the University of California tested the effects of visual sexual stimuli on men in relationships, finding that it "is unlikely to negatively impact sexual functioning, given that responses actually were stronger in those who viewed more VSS." Rex Love and sex news: in pictures 'I have herpes' A woman diagnosed with herpes at the age of 20 has written an emotional essay about living with the common condition to fight the stigma surrounding it. Ella Dawson, now 22, said she had never had unprotected sex and thought she wasn't the sort of person STDs happened to when the symptoms first appeared during her time at university in the US. She wrote that the diagnosis initially felt like a punishment for her values and relationships and worried her that telling boyfriends would ruin her love life. Ella Dawson Love and sex news: in pictures More sleep, better sex A new study could have a simple answer to enhancing your sex life just get a good nights sleep (if you are a woman at least). A study conducted by a team at the University of Michigan Sleep and Circadian Research Laboratory found women who get an extra hour of sleep at night reported higher levels of sexual desire and were more likely to have sex with their partners. Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures Swipe right A woman has detailed her experiences of a week of always swiping right on Tinder. By opening the floodgates, as Ms Caster describes it, she receives scores of messages from different men and not all are terrible. Love and sex news: in pictures The most adulterous town in the UK Ever wondered what the neighbours are up to? Well if you live in Beeston, Nottinghamshire, then the answer is probably... having an affair. The bustling East Midlands town has been granted the dubious honour of being the UK's top spot for infidelity with a total of 941 affairs reportedly taking place right now. According to The Official Infidelity Index 2015, which was released this week, 2.54 per cent of the towns population are currently seeing someone they shouldn't. REX FEATURES Love and sex news: in pictures Average penis size revealed Scientists have measured more than 15,000 mens penises in an effort to find out what size is normal. Researchers at Kings College London and a London NHS trust said they hoped the review would help address the concern that some men have about their penis size and aid people suffering from anxiety and distress. They revealed that the average flaccid penis is 3.6ins (9.16cm) long, or 5.2ins (13.24cm) when stretched, and 3.7ins (9.31cm) in circumference. Erect penises are 5.1ins (13.12cm) long on average and 4.5ins (11.66cm) in girth. Rex Love and sex news: in pictures One true love Men fall in love more times in their life than women, according to a new survey. 2,000 adults were asked about relationships, and discovered that more than half of men say they've loved more than one person their lifetime. For women, it's markedly fewer, with only 45 per cent saying they've had multiple loves. Love and sex news: in pictures Dating site for 'beautiful people only' A self-proclaimed elite dating website has removed around 3,000 members because they were "letting themselves go". BeautifulPeople.com describes itself as the largest internet dating community exclusively for the beautiful and puts peoples photographs to a members vote to decide if they are allowed in. But administrators have now shown that the rigorous 48-hour selection period is not a permanent pass by taking thousands of profiles down, mainly because of weight gain and graceless ageing. Love and sex news: in pictures Sex is a 'miracle cure' Regular exercise including sex, walking and dancing are miracle cures staring us in the face and could dramatically cut our risk of cancer, dementia, heart disease and diabetes, leading doctors have said. In a new review of existing evidence which reveals the full extent of benefits that can be accrued from exercise, the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges said the improvement in health and savings to the NHS could be incalculable. Susannah Ireland Love and sex news: in pictures Pornhub searches by age of user Pornhubs prolific Insights blog fires out many reports of sociological interest, none more so than its latest on age, which lays bare different age groups' sexual proclivities. Looking at the most popular searches among 18-24s, there are several familial terms including 'step mom', 'milf', 'mom' and 'step sister', a trend that seems to die out somewhat in users' 30s. By 65, 'massage' becomes the top term, while 'granny' perhaps unsurprisingly also hits the top ten. PlaceIt/Just Another IKEA Catalog Love and sex news: in pictures Mature sex Research into the sexual lives of more than 7,000 men and women between the ages of 50 and 90 in England reveals that half of men and almost a third of women aged 70 and over were still sexually active, with around a third of these sexually active older people having sexual intercourse twice a month or more. Around two-thirds of men and over half of women thought good sexual relations were essential to the maintenance of a long-term relationship or being sexually active was physically and psychologically beneficial to older people. Getty Creative Love and sex news: in pictures The secret to an eighty year marriage Figures from the Office of National Statistics show that 42 per cent of marriages in England and Wales end in divorce, and the average British marriage which ends in divorce lasts 11 years and six months. Helen and Maurice Kaye, now aged 101 and 102, have been married for 80 years, and say the secret is: I think its important to have patience and tolerance. You're two entirely different people who suddenly live together, which can't be easy. But if you love each other, you get over the difficulties. Love and sex news: in pictures Valentine's Day porn Pornhub saw a (slight) drop in traffic on Valentine's Day as people focused on pleasuring their partners rather than themselves. Everywhere, it is, except for London. Overall UK traffic dipped 3 per cent across the UK, with Plymouth and Oxford seeing the biggest drops of 11 per cent and 10 per cent respectively. In fact every major city spent less time watching porn bar London, the Pornhub audience for which grew by 2 per cent. Getty Love and sex news: in pictures 1 in 10 men paying for sex A tenth of British men have admitted to paying for sex, according to a new study. Professionals aged 25 to 34 who binge drink and take drugs were found to be the most likely to have used the services of prostitutes, based on findings from a study of 6,108 men. Around 11 per cent of subjects, in the study published in the Sexually Transmitted Infections journal, have ever paid for sex in their lifetime and four per cent admitted to doing so in the last five years. Getty Images Love and sex news: in pictures Questions that determine if you're in love The existence of love and its nature is something that has troubled philosophers for centuries, but a pair of scientists believe they have a set of questions that yield "clear empirical evidence" of it, or at least whether your relationship will end in divorce. They are: 'How happy are you in your marriage relative to how happy you would be if you weren't in the marriage?' and 'How do you think your spouse answered that question?' Columbia Overall, the proportion reporting no sex in the past month fell between the first and second surveys (from 28.5 per cent to 23 per cent in women and from 30.9 per cent to 26 per cent in men) but increased significantly in the final 2012 survey (to 29.3 per cent in women and 29.2 per cent in men). The proportion reporting sex 10 times or more in the past month increased between the first two surveys (from 18.4 per cent to 20.6 per cent in women and from 19.9 per cent to 20.2 per cent in men), but fell in the final survey to 13.2 per cent in woman and 14.4 per cent in men. Overall, 41 per cent of men and women had sex once a week or more in the last month, the most recent survey showed. Writing in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), the authors said: Our data show that sexual frequency fell in Britain between Natsal-2 and Natsal-3. The most recent Natsal data show that fewer than half of men and women aged 16 to 44 have sex at least once a week. '100 Vaginas': Channel 4 releases powerful documentary on womanhood, sex and sexuality Those aged under 25 years and those currently single are less likely to be sexually active, but we saw the steepest declines in sexual frequency in those aged 25 and over and those married or cohabiting. At the same time, the proportion of men and women saying that they would prefer more frequent sex increased. Men and women in better physical and mental health had sex more frequently, as did those who were fully employed and those with higher earnings. The three surveys asked people about vaginal, anal or oral sex with opposite or same-sex partners. The researchers noted that the average number of times that 35 to 44-year-olds reported having sex in the past month fell from four to two among women and from four to three among men. In this age group, the odds of reporting sex 10 or more times in the past month halved. Meanwhile, in the first survey, 13.2 per cent of women who were married or living together said they had no sex in the last month, dropping to 9.2 per cent in the second survey but rising to 15.1 per cent in the final survey. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners Show all 23 1 /23 The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 1. The Office of Gardens and Ponds by Didier Decoin Katsuro moaned as a bulge formed beneath the material of his kimono, a bulge that Miyuki seized, kneaded, massaged, squashed and crushed. With the fondling, Katsuros penis and testicles became one single mound that rolled around beneath the grip of her hand. Miyuki felt as though she was manipulating a small monkey that was curling up its paws. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 2. Pax by John Harvey She was burning hot and the heat was in him. He looked down on her perfect black slenderness. Her eyes were ravenous. Like his own they were fire and desire. More than torrid, more than tropical: they too were riding the Equator. They embraced as if with violent holding they could weld the two of them one The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 3. Katerina by James Frey Im hard and deep inside her fucking her on the bathroom sink her tight little black dress still on her thong on the floor my pants at my knees our eyes locked, our hearts and souls and bodies locked.Cum inside me. Cum inside me. Cum inside me. Blinding breathless shaking overwhelming exploding white God I cum inside her my cock throbbing were both moaning eyes hearts souls bodies one. One. White. God. Cum. Cum. Cum. I close my eyes let out my breath. Cum. I lean against her both breathing hard Im still inside her smiling. She takes my hands lifts them and places them around her body, she puts her arms around me, we stay still and breathe, hard inside her, tight and warm and wet around me, we breathe. She gently pushes me away, we look into each others eyes, she smiles. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 4. The Destroyers by Christopher Bollen (2017) She covers her breasts with her swimsuit. The rest of her remains so delectably exposed. The skin along her arms and shoulders are different shades of tan like water stains in a bathtub. Her face and vagina are competing for my attention, so I glance down at the billiard rack of my penis and testicles. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 5. Men Like Air by Tom Connolly (2016) The walkway to the terminal was all carpet, no oxygen. Dilly bundled Finn into the first restroom on offer, locked the cubicle door and pulled at his leather belt. Youre beautiful, she told him, going down on to her haunches and unzipping him. He watched her passport rise gradually out of the back pocket of her jeans in time with the rhythmic bobbing of her buttocks as she sucked him. He arched over her back and took hold of the passport before it landed on the pimpled floor. Despite the immediate circumstances, human nature obliged him to take a look at her passport photo. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 6. The Day Before Happiness by Erri De Luca (2016) She pushed on my hips, an order that thrust me in. I entered her. Not only my prick, but the whole of me entered her, into her guts, into her darkness, eyes wide open, seeing nothing. My whole body had gone inside her. I went in with her thrusts and stayed still. While I got used to the quiet and the pulsing of my blood in my ears and nose, she pushed me out a little, then in again. She did it again and again, holding me with force and moving me to the rhythm of the surf. She wiggled her breasts beneath my hands and intensified the pushing. I went in up to my groin and came out almost entirely. My body was her gearstick. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 7. List of the Lost by Morrissey (2015) At this, Eliza and Ezra rolled together into the one giggling snowball of full-figured copulation, screaming and shouting as they playfully bit and pulled at each other in a dangerous and clamorous rollercoaster coil of sexually violent rotation with Elizas breasts barrel-rolled across Ezras howling mouth and the pained frenzy of his bulbous salutation extenuating his excitement as it whacked and smacked its way into every muscle of Elizas body except for the otherwise central zone. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 8. Infrared by Nancy Huston (2012) In a delirium of restrained desire, I weigh, stroke and lick Kamal's balls, then take his penis in my hands, between my breasts, into my mouth. He sits up, reaches for me and I allow him to explore me in turn. He runs his tongue and lips over my breasts, the back of my neck, my toes, my stomach, the countless treasures between my legs, oh the sheer ecstasy of lips and tongues on genitals, either simultaneously or in alternation, never will I tire of that silvery fluidity, my sex swimming in joy like a fish in water, my self freed of both self and other, the quivering sensation, the carnal pink palpitation that detaches you from all colour and all flesh, making you see only stars, constellations, milky ways, propelling you bodiless and soulless into undulating space where the undulating skies make your non-body undulate. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 9. Ed King by David Guterson (2011) He freed himself from her nipple after a long attachment so as to kiss her on the mouth at length as if seeking to set the world record for kiss duration and she smelled her breast on his breath, which was otherwise piquant with saliva, a little tart, a little bitter, and humid with the churning underworld the raw metabolism and generative heat beneath the flawless exterior. Jim Long's odor had been a little like Naugahyde, and his mouth, lips, and tongue had often tasted metallic (or, just as often, steeped in vermouth), whereas Ed smelled vulnerably digestive, warm-blooded, moist, and, just now, breast-fed. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 10. 11.22.63 by Stephen King (2011) She said, Don't make me wait, I've had enough of that, and so I kissed the sweaty hollow of her temple and moved my hips forward ... She gasped, retreated a little, then raised her hips to meet me. Sadie? All right? Ohmygodyes, she said and I laughed. She opened her eyes and looked up at me with curiosity and hopefulness. Is it over, or is there more? A little more, I said. I don't know how much. I haven't been with a woman in a long time. It turned out there was quite a bit more At the end she began to gasp. Oh dear, oh my dear, oh my dear dear God, oh sugar! The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 11. The Shape of Her by Rowan Somerville (2010) The triangle of pubic hair, blond, a thin line bunched darkly, like desert vegetation following an underground stream. He placed his hand on the concave stretch that was her belly, letting two fingers rest in the yawn of her navel. He slipped downwards, grazing the tight skin of her waist with his fingertips. He reached her hair line and the muscles of her belly hardened as she raised herself up onto her elbows. She stayed his hand and drew him, yanked him, into a smothering kiss. She released his hair from her fingers and twisted onto her belly like a fish flipping itself, her movement so brusque his chin bounced off her head... The wet friction of her, tight around him, the sight of her open, stretched around him, the cleft of her body, it tore a climax out of him with a final lunge. Like a lepidopterist mounting a tough-skinned insect with a too blunt pin he screwed himself into her. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 12. The Death of Bunny Munro by Nick Cave (2009) He slips his hands under her cotton vest and her body spasms and slackens and he cups her small, cold breasts in his hands and feels the hard pearls of her nipples, like tiny secrets, against the barked palms of his hands. He feels the gradual winding down of her dying heart and can see a bluish tinge blossoming on the skin of her skull through her thin, ironed hair. 'Oh, my dear Avril,' he says. He puts his hands under her knees and manoeuvres her carefully so that her bottom rests on the edge of the settee. He slips his fingers underneath the worn elastic of her panties that are strung across the points of her hips, slips them to her ankles and softly draws apart her knees and feels again a watery ardour in his eyes as he negotiates a button and a zipper. It is exactly as he imagined it the hair, the lips, the hole and he slips his hands under her wasted buttocks and enters her like a fucking pile driver. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 13. The Humbling by Philip Roth (2009) First Pegeen stepped into the contraption, adjusted and secured the leather straps, and affixed the dildo so that it jutted straight out. Then she crouched above Tracy, brushing Tracy's lips and nipples with her mouth and fondling her breasts, and then she slid down a ways and gently penetrated Tracy with the dildo. Pegeen did not have to force her open... The green cock plunged in and out of the abundant naked body sprawled beneath it, slow at first, then faster and harder, then harder still, and all of Tracy's curves and hollows moved in unison with it. This was not soft porn. This was no longer two unclothed women caressing and kissing on a bed. There was something primitive about it now, this woman-on-woman violence, as though, in the room filled with shadows, Pegeen were a magical composite of shaman, acrobat, and animal. It was as if she were wearing a mask on her genitals, a weird totem mask, that made her into what she was not and was not supposed to be. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 14. Will by Christopher Rush (2007) O glorious pubes! The ultimate triangle, whose angles delve to hell but point to paradise. Let me sing the black banner, the blackbird's wing, the chink, the cleft, the keyhole in the door. The fig, the fanny, the cranny, the quim - I'd come close to it now, this sudden blush, this ancient avenue, the end of all odysseys and epic aim of life, pulling at my prick now, pulling like a lodestone. Anne Hathaway's cow-milking fingers, cradling my balls in her almond palm, now took pity on the poor anguished erection, and in the infinite agony of her desire, guided it to the quick of the wound. At the same time I searched wildly with the fingers of my left hand, groping blind as Cyclops, found the pulpy furred wetness, parted the old lips of time and slipped my middle finger into the sancta sanctorum. It welcomed me with soft sucking sounds, syllables older than language, solace lovelier than words. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 15. The Castle in the Forest by Norman Mailer (2007) Klara turned head to foot, and put her most unmentionable part down on his hard-breathing nose and mouth, and took his old battering ram into her lips. Uncle was now as soft as a coil of excrement. She sucked on him nonetheless with an avidity that could come only from the Evil One - that she knew. From there, the impulse had come. So now they both had their heads at the wrong end, and the Evil One was there. He had never been so close before. The Hound began to come to life. Right in her mouth. It surprised her. Alois had been so limp. But now he was a man again! His mouth lathered with her sap, he turned around and embraced her face with all the passion of his own lips and face, ready at last to grind into her with the Hound, drive it into her piety. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 16. Black Swan Green by David Mitchell (2006) If Dawn Madden's breasts were a pair of Danishes, Debby Crombie's got two Space Hoppers. Each armed with a gribbly nipple. Tom Yew kissed them in turn and his saliva glistened in the April sun. I know watching was wrong but I couldn't not. Tom Yew slipped off her red panties and stroked the cressy hair there... Tom Yew got on her and sort of jiggled there and she gasped like he was giving her a Chinese burn and wrapped her legs round him, froggily. Now he moved up and down, Man-from Atlantisly. His silver chain jiggled on his neck. Now her grubby soles met like they were praying. Now his skin was glazed in roast pork sweat. Now she made a noise like a tortured Moomintroll. Now Tom Yew's body jerkjerked judderily jackknifed and a noise like a ripping cable tore out of him. Once more, like he'd been booted in the balls. Her fingernails'd sunk salmony welts into his arse. Debby Crombie's mouth made a perfect O. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 17. Winkler by Giles Coren (2005) And he came hard in her mouth and his dick jumped around and rattled on her teeth and he blacked out and she took his dick out of her mouth and lifted herself from his face and whipped the pillow away and he gasped and glugged at the air, and he came again so hard that his dick wrenched out of her hand and a shot of it hit him straight in the eye and stung like nothing he'd ever had in there, and he yelled with the pain, but the yell could have been anything, and as she grabbed at his dick, which was leaping around like a shower dropped in an empty bath, she scratched his back deeply with the nails of both hands and he shot three more times, in thick stripes on her chest. Like Zorro. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 18. Young Turk by Moris Farhi (2004) I am stretched out on a sofa. My beloved is determined to assess my age. She has an infallible method for doing so: the way they ascertain a tree's age: by counting the rings in its trunk. Consequently, she has my member in her mouth. Her lips are thick with lipstick. Starting from the base of my penis, her mouth ambles upwards. At each half-centimetre, her lips imprint a red ring around the shaft. She continues until she runs out of length. She counts the rings. On this occasion they add up to thirty-six. (An hour ago, the number had been forty-one.) She cuddles up to me. She coos. Thirty-odd rings. What a mature oak in one so young! The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 19. I am Charlotte Simmons by Tom Wolfe (2004) Slither slither slither slither went the tongue, but the hand that was what she tried to concentrate on, the hand, since it has the entire terrain of her torso to explore and not just the otorhinolaryngological caverns - oh God, it was not just at the border where the flesh of the breast joins the pectoral sheath of the chest - no, the hand was cupping her entire right - Now! She must say No, Hoyt and talk to him like a dog. The fingers went under the elastic of the panties moan moan moan moan moan went Hoyt as he slithered slithered slithered slithered and caress caress caress caress went the fingers until they must be only eighths of inches from the border of her public hair - what's that! - Her panties were so wet down. There - the fingers had definitely reached the outer stand of the field of pubic hair and would soon plunge into the wet mess that was waiting right. There-there- The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 20. The Crime Tsar by Nichola McAuliffe (2003) 'It's all right, I won't break,' she whispered. She felt him aware of his size and weight. His care not to hurt her. She moved to accommodate him and felt the blind probings before he slipped inside her. He was bigger than she had remembered. She tilted her hips and felt the weight of his balls on her... what? Small expanse of skin between vagina and anus. Perineum - was that it? Her mind screamed: Shut up, Lucy! You're not doing the Cosmopolitan crossword now. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 21. The Stranger at the Palazzo d'Oro by Paul Theroux (2003) The softness of her skin in the dark, far softer-seeming because of the dark, was irresistible. And the aroma of her lily-fragrant perfume mingled with the cat smell of her steaming cunt made me salivate and pant like a lion, my nose tormented by damp fur and hot blood. Still I could not tell where her soft skin ended and her silk began, and the complexity of her vaginal lips was like another elaborate silken garment she had put on for me to stroke. I adored the gleam of her body in the light from the streetlamps and the blistered moon... She knelt and worshipped my cock with her mouth and her gloved hands and she cried out louder than I did when I came, spattering her face as she licked. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 22. Bunker 13 by Aniruddha Bahal (2003) She's taking off her blouse. It's on the floor. Her breasts are placards for the endomorphically endowed. In spite of yourself a soft whistle of air escapes you. She's taking off her trousers now. They are a heap on the floor. Her panties are white and translucent. You can see the dark hair sticking to them inside. There's a design as well. You gasp. 'What's that?' you ask. You see a designer pussy. Hair razored and ordered in the shape of a swastika. The Aryan denominator. As your hands roam her back, her breasts, and trace the swastika on her mound you start feeling like an ancient Aryan warlord yourself. The 23 best / worst Bad Sex in Fiction award winners 23. Starcrossed by AA Gill (1999) His tongue is long and hard and tastes of mint. We don't say anything, but he pushes me to my knees in the middle of the shop. It's difficult to undo his flies. I put my hand in. It's hot and damp, and then, Christ; it's amazing, huge. It just goes on and on, as thick as... "As a magnum? A jeroboam? A methuselah? A bitter pump?" "A fucking salami. Shut up, John." Among men, the figures were 11.5 per cent, 9.1 per cent and 12.8 per cent. Among both men and women who were married or living together, the odds of reporting sex 10 or more times in the past month were roughly halved. Declines of this magnitude were not seen among single people, suggesting the trend towards lower sexual frequency overall is largely due to the decline among sexually active married or cohabiting couples, the authors said. However, the data also show that half of all women (50.6 per cent) and almost two-thirds of men (64.3 per cent) said they would prefer to have sex more often, particularly those who were married or living together, which the authors said merits concern. Lead author Professor Kaye Wellings said: Several factors are likely to explain this decline, but one may be the sheer pace of modern life. It is interesting that those most affected are in mid-life, the group often referred to as the U-bend or sandwich generation. These are the cohorts of men and women who, having started their families at older ages than previous generations, are often juggling childcare, work and responsibilities to parents who are getting older. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events What is important to well-being is not how often people have sex but whether it matters to them. More than half of the men and women taking part in the study said theyd prefer to have sex more often, which could partly stem from unfavourable comparisons with what they think is the norm. Most people believe that others have more regular sex than they do themselves. Many people are likely to find it reassuring that they are not out of line. In the research paper, the authors also suggested that gender equality may now extend to the sexual sphere. They said: Where women might previously have felt obliged to meet their partners sexual needs irrespective of their own, they might now be less inclined to do so. Most compelling among the explanations, perhaps, given the age and marital status of the people most affected, relates to the stress and busyness of modern life, such that work, family life, and leisure are constantly juggled. Life in the digital age is considerably more complex than in previous eras, the boundary between the private space of home and the public world outside is blurred, and the internet offers considerable scope for diversion. Additional reporting by PA Hands up who else had zero interest in the royal family until recently? Nonplussed by Kate Middleton and Prince Williams growing brood and a bit bored with copious royal wedding coverage, I will however admit that Ive become very excited about the birth of Prince Harry and Meghan Markles baby. In the past I was confused as to why the country wanted to celebrate complete strangers getting married or having a child, something which seemed very far removed from my own life. Dont get me wrong, a nationwide day off was a welcome perk for most. But I just didnt relate to these people; whatever their position in the monarchy. Plus, the elitist ideology of the general public bowing down to those born into a life of privilege genuinely irritated me. Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Show all 15 1 /15 Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal super fans John Loughery (centre) pops the cork on a bottle of champagne AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy A man dressed as a town crier outside Windsor Castle in Berkshire following the news PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal fans outside Windsor Castle in Berkshire after Buckingham Palace announced the news of the birth of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's new baby boy PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Prince Harry speaks to the media after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to a baby boy Reuters Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal super fan Anne Daley poses with baby-themed balloons near Windsor Castle AFP/Getty Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy A notice placed on an easel in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace in London to formally announcing the birth PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal fans celebrate outside Windsor Castle PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy PA Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy A man makes an announcement outside Windsor Castle Reuters Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal fan Skye London celebrates the birth of Prince Harry's son AFP/Getty Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy Royal super fans John Loughery (left) and Anne Daley pose with Union flags and baby-themed balloons AFP/Getty Images Royal baby: Reactions to the birth of Harry and Meghan's baby boy EPA But then in 2016, a shift slowly began. I was a massive Suits fan, so when news of the then actress dating Prince Harry broke, I was intrigued. Quite clearly a woman who knows and understands the challenges adversity brings; Meghan is the breath of fresh air our royals needed. A mixed-race divorcee from the US whose parents also divorced during her childhood, she raised a few eyebrows within die-hard royalists, aka racists with no concept of modern reality. This 35-year-old woman whod carved out a successful career in Hollywood suddenly made life a bit more interesting in the world of royal news reports. Watching Harry and Meghans wedding in May 2018, Reverand Michael Curry led the service without previous stiff upper lip-infused proceedings, but instead brought excitement. Hope, even. The first African American bishop of the Episcopal Church, Curry himself knows a thing or two about setting precedent. This time I was interested in tuning in. Recommended Latest updates on the royal baby With that the royal family seemed to be finally moving into the present day, embracing diversity at last. My attention piqued. Theres no question Meghans personal journey exudes relatability. Her family rift will have resonated with many, and as Markle siblings sold their stories, it became clear shes had to deal with her fair share of what you could call real life. As the marriage entered its first year, the media was awash with stories about Meghan being difficult or bossing Harry about. A clear theme emerged traditionalists couldnt cope with a strong royal woman having her own opinions. I warmed to Meghan even more. After the pregnancy was revealed, it was announced there would be no commemorative memorabilia for baby Sussex. This step into parenthood was to be one marked by the couples own rules, and as such, an official due date wouldnt be released either. Despite my indifference, I did squirm each time Kate and William presented their newborn to the world on the Lindo Wing hospital steps. Having given birth twice, I honestly cant think of anything worse. I get that Kate will have had the entire worlds hair and makeup team at her feet, but the idea of a post-birth walkabout seems positively barbaric. So, when it was announced that Harry and Meghan would forgo this particular form of paparazzi torture, I cheered. That is how invested in their welfare Id become. A picture shows an official notice set up on an easel at the gates of Buckingham Palace announcing the birth of a son to Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (Getty Images) Subsequently annoying nosy traditionalists all over the shop, it felt like when Id requested loads of random relatives didnt visit me straight after birth. A few people were annoyed, but my husband and I knew wed done what was right for us. With Meghan wanting to give birth her own way, I felt relieved their privacy could be quietly protected for the first few hours of that precious newborn bubble. And when Prince Harry joyfully emerged on Monday afternoon, clearly delighted as any new dad would be, his informal speech exuded warmth and approachability. So un-royal, was my first instinctive thought. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Crediting all mums, Harry exclaimed how any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension. And with that I felt like I was well and truly invested in this family. Why, thank you, Hazza, I appreciate the compliment. Please do send my best to your lovely wife. In short, Meghan is exactly what the royal family needed, joining Harry by taking us into a brand-new era with them. And now their new baby makes three, I for one, cant wait to go along for the ride. Almost one-third of British parents work too late to say goodnight to their children at least three nights a week, a survey claims. A poll of 1,000 working parents found more than seven in 10 relied on partners or parents to read their children a bedtime story each night. And one-fifth have said goodnight via video chat when they cannot be there in person. Thirty-four per cent said they felt "guilty" for missing this time, and three in 10 said they struggled to explain to their children why they needed to stay at work. The research was commissioned by job website Indeed which partnered with childrens author Giles Paley-Phillips to create a bedtime story that makes the challenges faced by working parents more understandable for children. "Tick Tock Till Bedtime" explains to children why their parents might not always make it home in time for bedtime (SWNS) Tick Tock Till Bedtime explains the highs and lows that come with the working week, and how this can affect whether a parent makes it home for bedtime or not. Bill Richards, Indeeds managing director, said: After family and health, we know a job is one of the most important parts of our adult lives, and having children can change our priorities for what we want from our career. We can see from our own data that there has been a fundamental behavioural switch in modern working: beyond pay, most workers optimise for happiness." The research found 18 per cent of late-running parents gave their children sweet treats to make up for staying at work too long. The 20 best countries to raise a family Show all 20 1 /20 The 20 best countries to raise a family The 20 best countries to raise a family 20. Iceland These are the 20 best countries to raise children according to a Unicef report into child inequality, which measured inequality across income, education, health and life satisfaction in rich countries (Pic: Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik) Getty Images The 20 best countries to raise a family 19. Portugal (Pic: The Douro Valley vineyards) Getty The 20 best countries to raise a family 18. United States (Pic: New York) The 20 best countries to raise a family 14= United Kingdom (Pic: London) The 20 best countries to raise a family 14= Hungary (Pic: Budapest) The 20 best countries to raise a family 14= Greece (Pic: Athens) The 20 best countries to raise a family 14. Germany (Pic: Berlin) The 20 best countries to raise a family 13. Australia (Pic: Sydney) The 20 best countries to raise a family 12. Croatia (Pic: Dubrovnik on Croatia's Adriatic coast) The 20 best countries to raise a family 11. Czech Republic (Pic: Olomouc) The 20 best countries to raise a family 10. Latvia (Pic: Riga) The 20 best countries to raise a family 9. Slovenia (Pic: Ljubljana) The 20 best countries to raise a family 8. Estonia (Pic: Tallinn) The 20 best countries to raise a family 7. Ireland (Pic: Dublin) The 20 best countries to raise a family 6. Netherlands (Pic: Amsterdam) The 20 best countries to raise a family 5. Austria (Pic: Vienna) AFP/Getty Images The 20 best countries to raise a family 2= Switzerland (Pic: Rheinau) The 20 best countries to raise a family 2= Norway (Pic: Saebo) The 20 best countries to raise a family 2. Finland (Pic: Helsinki) The 20 best countries to raise a family 1. Denmark (Pic: Copenhagen) One in four workers blamed "presenteeism" feeling obliged to stay at work longer than necessary for their late arrival home. Fifty-seven per cent said they regularly had to stay at work beyond their contracted hours. When it came to missing bedtime, four in 10 felt they lacked the tools to explain their jobs in child-friendly terms, and almost half said their children had "no understanding" of what their job involved. Nearly half of the parents surveyed said they had considered a career change in an effort to find more flexible hours. Author Giles Paley-Phillips has written "Tick Tock Till Bedtime" to help parents have conversations with their kids about the working world (SWNS) And when it came to working parents' wishlists for new roles, flexible working hours topped opportunity for progression and holiday allowance. Mr Richards added: We created Tick Tock Till Bedtime to celebrate having a family as one of lifes key milestones, and to open up conversations about recalibrating work/life balance. Mr Paley-Phillips, author of the award-winning The Fearsome Beastie, added As a working parent I totally understand that explaining the challenges of the working world to kids can be really tough. We wanted to create an engaging bedtime tale which would help children understand the pressures their parents face, and encourage open dialogue at home. I hope the characters can become great examples for young families. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Indeed has created a downloadable version of Tick Tock Till Bedtime and an animation which can be found at www.ticktocktillbedtime.com. There will also be a limited print run of the story. SWNS A "fierce" new species of little dinosaurs with bat-like wings has been discovered in China. Palaeontologists have uncovered the fossilised remains of a 163-million-year-old creature that would have been around the size of a magpie, weighing just 300g. Named Ambopteryx longibrachium, it had bat-like membrane wings which were previously unknown among predatory theropod dinosaurs. This suggests that when dinosaurs were beginning to fly they were experimenting with a range of wing structures. The find "completely changes our idea of dinosaur evolution", lead researcher Min Wang from the Chinese Academy of Sciences told The Independent. "We imagine dinosaurs have feathered wings but this latest discovery changes how we understand the origins of flight," he said. Pictured is a life reconstruction (left) and 3-D reconstruction (right) of Ambopteryx longibrachium ( Chung-Tat Cheung/ Min Wang ) (Chung-Tat Cheung/ Min Wang) The feathered dinosaur lived during the the Upper Jurassic period in what is now Liaoning province in north eastern China. It would have spent most of its time in the trees, or flying between them, according to the paper published in the journal Nature. It lived around the same time and place as dinosaurs with feathered wings. However, feathered wings were ultimately more successful and led to the evolution of birds bats did not evolve until after the extinction of dinosaurs 66 million years ago. Fossilised stomach contents showed the creature had undigested bone material suggested it hunted other animals. New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures Show all 7 1 /7 New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures A foot bone of the newly discovered species Homo Luzonensis Reuters New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures The right upper teeth of the newly discovered species Homo Luzonensis AFP/Getty New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures The teeth of newly discovered species Homo Luzonensis (L) are compared with those of the Homo Erectus AFP/Getty New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures The excavation team at work in Callao Cave on Luzon Island AFP/Getty New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures Luzon Island in the Philippines, where the discovery was made AFP/Getty New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures The excavation site in Callao Cave on Luzon Island AFP/Getty New species of ancient human discovered - in pictures The excavation site in Callao Cave on Luzon Island AFP/Getty "It was probably quite fierce," said Dr Wang. The new specimen belongs to a group called the scansoriopterygids which are tree climbers with very long hands and fingers. Pictured: a). Fossil; b). reconstruction of bones; c). close-up of the membranous wing; d). image of the bony stomach content (Min Wang ) (Min Wang) Ambopteryx was related to a similar dinosaur named Yi Qi which was found by a farmer in China in 2007. Yi Qi was the first specimen to be found with bat-like wings. "At least eight to ten species of dinosaurs at the time had feathered wings, but only two had membrane wings," said Dr Wang. "The fossil record is not complete and the feathered wing is more widely distributed so I think they probably evolved earlier." Captured fugitive Joseph McCann has been charged with 12 offences related to alleged kidnappings and sexual assaults, including five rapes. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot authorised the use of force to bring the 34-year-old before her by video-link from Belmarsh prison after he refused to appear in court on Wednesday. McCann was arrested in Cheshire in the early hours of Monday morning more than two weeks after his first alleged attack. He is accused of the kidnap and rape of a woman in Watford in the early hours of Sunday April 21. McCann is further charged with two kidnappings, four counts of rape, one count of false imprisonment, two counts of causing a female to engage in sexual activity and one count of assaulting a female by penetration in London between 24 April and 27 April. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 19 December 2021 Joao Moutinho of Wolverhampton Wanderers looks on during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea at Molineux Getty Images UK news in pictures 18 December 2021 Freight lorries queuing at the port of Dover in Kent PA UK news in pictures 17 December 2021 Newly elected Liberal Democrat MP Helen Morgan, bursts 'Boris' bubble' held by colleague Tim Farron, as she celebrates following her victory in the North Shropshire by-election PA UK news in pictures 16 December 2021 Brussels sprouts are harvested by workers as they prepare for the busy Christmas period near Boston in Lincolnshire PA UK news in pictures 15 December 2021 Lewis Hamilton is made a Knight Bachelor by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 14 December 2021 The Royal Liver Buildings surrounded by early morning fog in Liverpool PA UK news in pictures 13 December 2021 People queue outside a walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centre at St Thomas's Hospital in Westminster Getty Images UK news in pictures 12 December 2021 People take part in the Big Leeds Santa Dash in Roundhay Park, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 11 December 2021 People arrive at a Covid-19 vaccination centre at Elland Road in Leeds, PA UK news in pictures 10 December 2021 Stella Moris speaks to the media after the US Government won its High Court bid to overturn a judges decision not to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange PA UK news in pictures 9 December 2021 Camels are lead around Salisbury Cathedral during a rehearsal for the Christmas Eve Service PA UK news in pictures 8 December 2021 Margaret Keenan and Nurse May Parsons, a year after Margaret was the first person in the UK to receive the Pfizer vaccine PA UK news in pictures 7 December 2021 Snowfall in Leadhills, South Lanarkshire as Storm Barra hits the UK with disruptive winds, heavy rain and snow PA UK news in pictures 6 December 2021 A person tries to avoid sea spray on New Brighton promenade in Wallasey as the UK readies for the arrival of Storm Barra Getty UK news in pictures 5 December 2021 People release balloons during a tribute to six-year-old Arthur Labinjo-Hughes outside Emma Tustin's former address in Solihull, West Midlands, where he was murdered by his stepmother PA UK news in pictures 4 December 2021 People walk through a Christmas market in Trafalgar Square Reuters UK news in pictures 3 December 2021 A pedestrian carries a dog as they dodge shoppers on Oxford Street in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 2 December 2021 Duchess of Cambridge inspects a Faberge egg at the Victoria and Albert Museum Getty UK news in pictures 1 December 2021 Meerkats at London Zoo with an advent calendar PA UK news in pictures 30 November 2021 Workers put the finishing touches to the Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree ahead of the lighting ceremony later in the week PA UK news in pictures 29 November 2021 Home Secretary Priti Patel is greeted by a police dog at a special memorial service for Met Police Sergeant Matiu Ratana Getty UK news in pictures 28 November 2021 Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City battles for possession with Aaron Cresswell of West Ham United during a match at the Etihad during snow Manchester City/Getty UK news in pictures 27 November 2021 Residents clear branches from a fallen tree in Birkenhead, north west England as Storm Arwen triggered a rare red weather warning AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 3 December 2021 An aerial picture shows a worker using a quad bike and trailer to transport freshly harvested trees at Pimms Christmas Tree farm in Matfield, southeast England AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 26 November 2021 A shopper browses Christmas trees for sale at Pines and Needles in Dulwich, London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 November 2021 A murmuration of hundreds of thousands of starlings fly over a field at dusk in Cumbria, close to the Scottish border PA UK news in pictures 3 December 2021 A pedestrian carries a dog as they dodge shoppers on Oxford Street in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 24 November 2021 Migrants are helped ashore from a RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) lifeboat at a beach in Dungeness, on the south-east coast of England, on November 24, 2021, after being rescued while crossing the English Channel. AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 23 November 2021 The coffin of Sir David Amess is carried past politicians, including former Prime Ministers Sir John Major, David Cameron and Theresa May, Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Home Secretary Priti Patel and Prime Minister Boris Johnson during the requiem mass for the MP at Westminster Cathedral, central London PA UK news in pictures 22 November 2021 The scene in Dragon Rise, Norton Fitzwarren, Somerset where police have launched a murder probe after two people were found dead Tom Wren/SWNS UK news in pictures 21 November 2021 London-based midwife Sarah Muggleton, 27, takes part in a 'March with Midwives' in central London to highlight the crisis in maternity services PA UK news in pictures 20 November 2021 Police officers monitor as climate change activists sit down and block traffic during a protest action in solidarity with activists from the Insulate Britain group who received prison terms for blocking roads, on Lambeth Bridge in central London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 19 November 2021 A giant installation of Prime Minister Boris Johnson made from recycled clothing goes on display at Manchester Central, as part of Manchester Art Fair, in a 'wake-up call for the Prime Minister to tackle textile waste' PA UK news in pictures 18 November 2021 The scene at a recycling centre in Stert, near Devizes in Wiltshire after a large blaze was brought under control. The fire broke out on Wednesday night the fire service has said and local residents were advised to keep windows and doors shut due to large amounts of smoke PA UK news in pictures 17 November 2021 The sun rises over South Shields Lighthouse, on the North East coast of England PA UK news in pictures 16 November 2021 ancer Maithili Vijayakumar at the launch of 2021 Diwali celebrations at St Andrew Square in Edinburgh PA UK news in pictures 15 November 2021 Forensic officers work outside Liverpool Women's Hospital, following a car blast, in Liverpool Reuters UK news in pictures 14 November 2021 Wreaths by the Cenotaph after the Remembrance Sunday service in Whitehall, London PA UK news in pictures 13 November 2021 Richard Ratcliffe, the husband of detainee Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, is ending his hunger strike in central London after almost three weeks. Ratcliffe has spent 21 days camped outside the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London without food. He began his demonstration on 24 October after his wife lost her latest appeal in Iran, saying his family was caught in a dispute between two states PA UK news in pictures 12 November 2021 Peter Green protesting outside the Cop26 gates during the official final day of the Cop26 summit in Glasgow. PA UK news in pictures 11 November 2021 Seagulls fly around the statue entitled 'Tommy', a first World War soldier by artist Ray Lonsdale at dawn in Seaham, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 10 November 2021 Climate activists dressed as characters inspired by the Netflix series Squid Game protest as they ask Samsung to go 100% renewable energy, outside the venue for COP26 in Glasgow Reuters UK news in pictures 9 November 2021 A deer statue silhouetted at Loch Faskally in Pitlochry, Scotland Reuters UK news in pictures 8 November 2021 Sunrise over St Mary's Lighthouse at Whitley Bay on the North East coast of England PA UK news in pictures 7 November 2021 Activists from Friends of the Earth during a demonstration calling for an end to all new oil and gas projects in the North Sea outside the UK Government's Cop26 hub during the Cop26 summit in Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 November 2021 Protesters take part in a rally organised by the Cop26 Coalition in Glasgow demanding global climate justice PA UK news in pictures 5 November 2021 Final touches are made to a life sized Sir David Attenborough cake surrounded by animals as part of a display created by a group of cake artists during Cake International at NEC Birmingham PA UK news in pictures 4 November 2021 A spectacular display of the Northern Lights seen over Derwentwater, near Keswick in the Lake District PA UK news in pictures 3 November 2021 Police and demonstrators at a Extinction Rebellion protest on Buchanan Street, during the Cop26 summit in Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 2 November 2021 A person walks along the Basingstoke canal near to Dogmersfield in Hampshire PA McCann, from Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire, was due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday but the chief magistrate Emma Arbuthnot said he was refusing to come up from the cells. Six uniformed officers were on guard outside the courtroom. Prosecutor Iain Jenkins asked the judge to authorise the use of force so McCann could appear before the court by video-link from Belmarsh prison on Thursday. Ms Arbuthnot said: Mr McCann has failed to come up and yes, I do certainly authorise the use of force to get him before the video-link tomorrow so we can get on with the case. He will next appear via video link at the court on Thursday, 9 May. An investigation by Scotland Yards Homicide and Major Crime Command is continuing and the Metropolitan Police said a file remains with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in relation to further alleged offences. The partner of Lyra McKee has compared the dissident republicans who killed the journalist in Northern Ireland to paedophiles in the way in which they groom young people to commit violence. Sara Canning attacked those believed to be responsible for Ms McKees, death when she was fatally shot during rioting in Londonderry last month. What I would say is, and this might be heavy-handed, and people might speak out against it or whatever, but I dont really care they are grooming young men and women, she told Channel 4 News. Theyre no better, they speak out about paedophile gangs, but theyre no better than paedophiles. She added: They literally take young people who are disenfranchised at the best of times, who are living in poverty, who dont see a future for themselves in Northern Ireland And they tell them that the way forward is a gun in their hand. The way forward is never a gun in your hand. Ms Canning also said she spoke to Theresa May at her partners funeral, and told the prime minister she had been derelict in her duty to Northern Ireland by saying abortion and gay marriage were a devolved matter. Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Show all 21 1 /21 Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots A burning car in Creggan, Derry after petrol bombs were thrown at police during riots in Northern Ireland PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Armed police at the scene of unrest PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Petrol bombs being thrown at police PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots Belfast Journalist Lyra McKee was killed during the riots. Police Service of Northern Ireland said that McKee was allegedly shot while reporting on clashes with dissident republican rioters EPA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots The scene on Fanad Drive the following day PA Violence erupts in Northern Ireland as journalist killed during riots PA She said she told Ms May to move to change the laws through Westminster if local politicians failed to act on the issue. Marriage equality is a cause to which Lyra and I were very committed, said Ms Canning. Lyra and I were supposed to be on a big trip to New York this week. We were going to get engaged. We talked about getting married in Donegal, but really we wanted our love and our marriage to be recognised in Northern Ireland, just the same as the rest of our family members and friends. But to date, politicians have stopped that happening here, despite the fact that most people support equal marriage. If the politicians wont legislate for equal marriage at Stormont, then the Prime Minister should do it at Westminster. She added: Thats what I told Theresa May at Lyras funeral. I wanted her to know that Lyra and I had a right to be treated as equal citizens in our own country. Surely that's not too much to ask? Last month the New IRA admitted responsibility for the Ms McKees death and offered full and sincere apologies to her family and friends. Ms Canning rejected the mealy-mouthed apologies and back-tracking and absolutely pathetic statements issued by the group. You cant apologise for killing someone. You cant call it an accidental shooting. You fire a gun at a crowd, thats not an accidental shooting. Youre aiming to shoot someone. I mean, its ridiculous. Theyre not defending anyone. Theyre literally a scourge on their communities. Theyre a scourge. Ms Canning also criticised Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley. She said she told Ms Bradley that she was doing a pretty terrible job as the secretary of state. Her lack of knowledge around Northern Ireland was appalling. She needed to go and educate herself. How on earth she had taken a job where she had no knowledge of the area. Ms Canning will address the event outside Belfast City Hall on 18 May. It is being organised by the Love Equality campaign an umbrella group made up of organisations that support a law change. The London Bridge attackers paused their stabbing rampage to talk to an unidentified man and then spared his life, it has been revealed. Inquests into the atrocity have heard how the three terrorists murdered eight people and injured 48 more with a van and knives. Graphic footage played to the Old Bailey on Wednesday showed the trio moving around the Borough Market area as a pack, stabbing and slashing any man or woman within reach while shouting Allahu akbar. Investigators have mapped the movements of Khuram Butt, Rachid Redouane and Youssef Zaghba in detail, plotting the points where each of their victims fell. But police admitted they do not understand one incident caught on camera, where a man was left unharmed for unknown reasons. London Bridge Terror Attack Show all 16 1 /16 London Bridge Terror Attack London Bridge Terror Attack Armed police on Borough High Street as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Armed Police talk to members of the public outside London Bridge Hospital as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Police Officers outside the Barrowboy and Banker Public House on Borough High Street as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Armed Police talk to members of the public outside London Bridge Hospital as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Armed police on Borough High Street as police deal with a 'major incident' at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Emergency services near the scene of the incident Screengrab London Bridge Terror Attack People run down Borough High Street as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge Reuters London Bridge Terror Attack Emergency services arrive at the scene near Borough market at London Bridge Carl Court/Getty Images London Bridge Terror Attack Emergency personnel on London Bridge as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack Police sniffer dogs on London Bridge as police are dealing with a "major incident" at London Bridge PA London Bridge Terror Attack A second helicopter lands on London Bridge as police are responding to three incidents in the capital, amid reports that a vehicle collided with pedestrians on London Bridge, Scotland Yard said. Officers are dealing with reports of stabbings in Borough Market, where armed officers attended and shots were fired. They are also at an incident in the Vauxhall area PA London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident on London Bridge in London REUTERS London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident on London Bridge in London, Britain Reuters London Bridge Terror Attack A police officer escorts members of the public to safety at London Bridge Getty Images London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident on London Bridge in London, Britain Reuters London Bridge Terror Attack Police attend to an incident near London Bridge in London, Britain Reuters Footage played to the court showed a man walking alone down a road adjoining Borough Market, holding his phone. Redouane is seen jogging towards him holding his 12in knife, which was taped to his wrist. The CCTV, which is silent, shows the pair briefly speaking to each other before the man is allowed to walk on unharmed, turning to say something to the attackers as he leaves. Theres clearly some form of discussion, said Detective Superintendent Becky Riggs, from the Metropolitan Police counterterror command. "We dont know what was said, we never identified that man and regardless of appeals for a witness, he never came forward." The terrorists then continued their stabbing rampage in restaurants in Borough Market, including Black & Blue. Footage played to the Old Bailey showed them entering the restaurants bar as Millwall fan Roy Larner was sat at a table. It shows him briefly speaking to the terrorists before Redouane stabs him repeatedly. Mr Larner is seen standing and trying to fight the attackers, even as he is stabbed again. The court heard that Butt then ordered journalist Geoff Ho to lie down on the floor, and stabbed him in the throat. Zaghba went behind the bar and drank from the tap, before Butt calmly washed his knife and wiped it on his beard in what Jonathan Hough QC, the counsel to the inquests, called a chilling gesture. London Bridge terror attack: One year on Footage played to the court showed several victims and members of the public fighting the attackers. PC Charlie Guenigault was seen kicking Butt as he was being knifed on the ground. Another clip showed a man throwing a drink over Redouane after being stabbed in the back. The court heard that at one point, the trio started moving towards unarmed police officers. Footage showed the officers making desperate radio calls for armed backup before turning and telling members of the public to run, fleeing with them. An armed unit from City of London Police arrived at Borough Market shortly afterwards, as the terrorists stabbed the last of the 56 victims they killed or injured. Even as three officers got out of their car and took aim, members of the public were throwing missiles at the terrorists, footage showed. Two bakers had run to the scene with large bread crates, while drinkers were pelting the attackers with chairs and glass bottles. Armed police officers were forced to run backwards and open fire as the terrorists charged towards them with their knives and fake suicide vests. A map showing where each of the stabbed London Bridge victims were killed or found (Metropolitan Police) The court heard that in the following minutes, the three men were shot more times on the ground because officers feared they were moving and could detonate the vests. A man in a nearby pub was accidentally hit in the head by a police bullet but survived, while other bystanders were injured by shrapnel. The attackers deaths will be examined before a jury, in separate inquests coming after an estimated eight weeks of hearings for their victims. Christine Archibald, 30, and Xavier Thomas, 45, were hit by the terrorists van before it crashed. Alexandre Pigeard, 26, Sara Zelenak, 21, Kirsty Boden, 28, Sebastien Belanger, 36, James McMullan, 32, and Ignacio Echeverria, 39, were all stabbed to death. Gareth Patterson QC, representing six of the victims families, questioned whether barriers which were installed on London Bridge after the attack would have saved two of those killed. He told the court that despite calls for changes to hire rules following the Westminster attack in March 2017, there wasnt a single obstacle for a terrorist renting a vehicle. Mr Patterson said it only took an hour of phone calls for Butt to hire the van from Hertz, even though the known Islamist had been under investigation by both MI5 and counterterror police. He told the court that despite a voluntary security scheme, there is nothing of any substance to this day that stops you getting your hands on a vehicle like that if you want to commit a terrorist attack. Det Supt Riggs acknowledged that both Isis and al-Qaeda had released propaganda magazines containing advice on carrying out vehicle attacks, but said that a report outlining the specific vulnerability of London Bridge was not seen by Scotland Yard until February 2018. Clockwise: Christine Archibald, James McMullan, Alexandre Pigeard, Sebastien Belanger, Ignacio Echeverria, Xavier Thomas, Sara Zelenak, Kirsty Boden (PA) After Alexandre Pigeards father questioned why British police were not routinely armed, Mr Patterson said unarmed officers were on the scene a minute after the attack started. He told the court the batons they carried were wholly unequal to what they faced when they arrived at the scene, adding: Had they been able to stop the attack at that stage, something like 20 people stabbed after that point may not have received those injuries. Det Supt Riggs said officers had full protective equipment and that it would be speculation to say what might have happened. Dominic Adamson, a lawyer representing Xavier Thomass family, questioned why he was not rescued from the River Thames on the night of the attack. The inquest heard his body was found three days later, with the cause of death found to be immersion in water. According to the transcript of a 999 call, a man told an operator he saw someone being hit by the van and thrown into the river. The caller said they were walking along London Bridge southbound when they heard the smashes and the screams ... I saw someone actually being hit, thrown into the river. The person didnt swim or anything, the body will have been carried down the river a bit. Its too bloody awful for words. A missing piece of Stonehenge has been returned to the site more than 60 years after it was taken. A metre-long core from inside one of the prehistoric stones was removed during archaeological excavations in 1958. Its existence remained largely unknown until 89-year-old Robert Phillips who was involved in those works returned the piece after keeping it for six decades. Mr Phillips, who has since retired to the US, said he wanted to give the artefact back ahead of his 90th birthday. Now, English Heritage, which looks after the ancient monument in Wiltshire, says analysis of the sample may help establish exactly where the stones originally came from. Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed Show all 6 1 /6 Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed A new scientific research collaboration is, for the first time, revealing who built Stonehenge. The cutting-edge study sheds a remarkable light on the geographical origins of the Neolithic community that first constructed the ancient site. Complex tests carried out on 25 Neolithic people who were buried at or following the time of the initial construction of the now world-famous monument, have revealed that 10 of them lived nowhere near Stonehenge, but in western Britain, and that half of those 10 potentially came from southwest Wales (where the earliest Stonehenge monoliths came from). AFP/Getty Images Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed Three of the cremated cranial fragments used in the study Up until now, it has always been assumed that it was not possible to carry out place-of-origin tests on burned bones but recent research at Oxford University by Belgian scientist, Dr Christophe Snoeck of the Free University of Brussels, has now discovered that the act of cremation actually crystallises a bones structure and prevents the crucial origin-indicating isotope evidence from being contaminated by isotopic signals in the surrounding soil. Christie Willis, UCL Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed Aubrey Hole 7 during excavation in 2008 Although the geographically intermediate examples hint at there being a well-worn prehistoric land route between west Wales and Stonehenge, nobody yet knows exactly how the stones (and the cremated remains) were transported. Sea and land routes are both possible. Christie Willis, UCL Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed Aubrey Hole 7 following excavation in 2008 Geologically, previous research has shown that the stones (so-called bluestones or dolerite, used for the early phase of Stonehenge) also came from western Britain (in this case, the Preseli mountains in southwest Wales). Archaeological investigations have now pinpointed the quarries they actually came from and when they were quarried (some time between the 34th and the 32nd century BC). Christie Willis, UCL Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed Excavations at one of the recently identified bluestone quarries, at Carn Goedog, Pembrokeshore, west Wales. The recent scientific analysis of the Stonehenge cremated bones (that appear to have been buried adjacent to the newly re-erected stones) is now helping to reveal the origins of the community, which appears to have actually built the earliest version of the monument. It is the strontium and carbon isotopic signatures in the cremated bone material that suggest a western British origin for the 10 individuals and definitely not from the Stonehenge area. The carbon signal, absorbed into the bones from the timber used in the funerary pyre, also suggests a Western or non-local origin. Adam Stanford, Aerial-Cam Ltd Stonehenge: Origins of those who built world-famous monument revealed The ever-increasing body of evidence suggesting Stonehenge and the original Stonehenge communitys western British origins has substantial implications for our understanding of British prehistory. Christie Willis, UCL Heather Sebire, the charitys curator for Stonehenge, said: The last thing we ever expected was to get a call from someone in America telling us they had a piece of Stonehenge. We are very grateful to the Phillips family Studying the Stonehenge cores DNA could tell us more about where those enormous sarsen stones originated. The piece was originally removed during work to raise one of the sites fallen trilithon a group of two upright stones with a third across the top. Cracks were found in one upright as part of this work and it was drilled with three 32mm holes, which then had metal rods inserted into them in a bid to reinforce the stone. It was one of these thin cones of removed stone which Mr Phillips kept, hanging it first on his office wall in Basingstoke and then taking it with him when he moved to Florida. His sons Robin and Lewis returned the piece last May, although English Heritage said the find was not announced until Wednesday morning because experts wanted to establish its significance. Lewis Phillips said: Our father has always been interested in archaeology and he recognised the huge importance of the piece of the monument in his care. It was his wish that it be returned to Stonehenge. Stonehenges smaller bluestones are known to have been brought from the Preseli Hills in Wales, but the origin of the much larger sarsen stones remains a mystery. A project is investigating the chemical composition of these in a bid to pinpoint the source. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The newly recovered core, which is pristine compared with the weathered stone it was taken from, presents an opportunity to analyse the purer interior of a stone. English Heritage said it did not know if the other two cores survived and urged anyone involved in the 1958 excavation to get in touch if they think they had information. EU officials involved with Brexit negotiations privately considered aspects of Theresa Mays approach insane and pathetic, a new behind-the-scenes documentary shows. BBC camera crews were given access to Brexit officials in the European parliament to make Brexit: Behind Closed Doors, a two-part series focusing on the team around Guy Verhofstadt, the European parliaments Brexit coordinator. It shows officials having completely lost confidence in the UKs ability to negotiate, with frustration regularly boiling over at behaviour emanating from the government in London. In one telling scene, chief EU negotiator Michel Barnier, says his team needs someone stable, available and reliable on the British side to hold discussions with. Mr Verhofstadt sarcastically replies: We cant ask too much of Britain, dont overdo it. In another scene, Mr Verhofstadts chief of staff Guillaume McLaughlin reacts with disbelief when he is told that a Brexit deal is off because Ms May could not clear it with DUP leader Arlene Foster. What the f**k is wrong with her. Thats insane. I dont know, I havent spoken to her? Thats ridiculous. Pathetic, pathetic, he says. The comments are in contrast to the EUs diplomatic public approach to talks, throughout which they heaped praise on their counterparts such as Ms May and David Davis. On another occasion captured in the documentary, Edel Rettman-Crosse, Mr Verhofstadts top aide, describes the UKs then Brexit secretary Mr Davis, who the team has just met with, as having his head in the f***ing clouds. The officials agreed that Mr Davis did not really give a f**k about the Irish border, one of the key issues that bogged down Brexit talks for months afterwards. Mr Verhofstadt represents the European parliament in Brexit talks (AP) David Davis explained to us that Ireland is not a problem, says an exasperated Mr McLaughlin, recounting the meeting. The Brexit deal has since been blocked by the UK parliament effectively over the Irish border question. Ms Mays conference speech also goes down poorly with the team, with Mr McLaughlin shouting Oh, f**k off! at the screen when the prime minister claims she is working hard to get a deal. The film also gives the impression of a Brussels that feels totally unthreatened by the UK, with regular mocking doled out at the UKs expense. Over breakfast in one scene, Mr Verhofstadt and Mr Barnier end up discussing classic cars, and Mr Barnier jokes: Thats what theyre trying to do with Brexit, take an old car and restore it. Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Show all 30 1 /30 Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Pro-Brexit leave the European Union supporters attend a rally in Parliament Square after the final leg of the "March to Leave" in London AP Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit The protest march which started on March 16 in Sunderland, north east England, finished on what was the original date for Brexit to happen before the recent extension Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit AP Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit PA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit EPA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter sips a can of Stella in protests outside of the Houses of Parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Dedicated anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray and likewise pro-Brexit campaigner Joseph Afrane go head to head near the Houses of Parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A pro-Brexit marching band in Parliament Square Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Remain supporters wave EU flags from a bus in Parliament Square PA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter shouts slogans outside parliament EPA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter protests outside parliament Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter protests outside of the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters protest outside of the Houses of Parliament REUTERS Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A pro-Brexit flag is waved in Parliament Square AP Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit The March to Leave nears the Houses of Parliament Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit protester holds a sign outside parliament EPA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters carry the coffin of democracy AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters march outside parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters take part in the March to Leave protest in London PA Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Brexit supporters protest outside parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter holds a sign outside the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A man holds satirical paintings of politicians Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit An pro-Brexit float on the March to Leave march in London Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit Far-right activist Tommy Robinson addresses protesters outside the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter outside the Houses of Parliament Reuters Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Tommy Robinson supporter arrives at the Houses of Parliament Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A jogger gestures rudely at a Brexit supporter outside of the Houses of Parliament AFP/Getty Opposing protesters flock to parliament on would be date of Brexit A Brexit supporter outside the Houses of Parliament PA Elmar Brok, a German ally of Angela Merkel who sits on the Brexit steering group, says the EU should not help the UK sort out its mess. I am very clear we have to do nothing. We are ready and they have to come, he advises. And we have to wait while the air becomes thinner and thinner because we lose time. On another occasion, officials are also bemused at Ms Mays invocation of war spirit in her conference speech. After one encounter in which Mr Verhofstadt has an argument with Brexiteer Tory MP Andrew Rosindell, top aide Ms Rettman-Crosse tells her boss: Im most proud of you when you take on a Tory. He was a f***er. The documentary is likely to be seized on by second referendum campaigners and opposition politicians as evidence of the UKs incompetence in talks. It is also likely to anger Brexiteers, many of whom see Brussels as trying to punish the UK. Ex-Tory chancellor George Osborne has told cabinet ministers they have a responsibility to move against Theresa May in order to save the party from future electoral defeat. Urging those hopeful of succeeding the prime minister in Downing Street, Mr Osborne said: Fortune favours the brave in these leadership contests. It comes after Ms May appeared to defy growing pressure from Conservative MPs to speed up her resignation, and outline a departure date. But Sir Graham Brady the chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs said on Wednesday the prime minister will address the 1922 executive next week amid frustration over Ms Mays position in the wake of the worst set of local election results for the party in a generation. Speaking to Sky News, Mr Osborne said that eventually the Conservative Party will need to confront the truth that it needs a new leader. Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Nigel Farage speaks at the launch of his new Brexit Party's campaign for the European elections Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Brexit Party candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg, sister of Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, speaks at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A supporter waits for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters wait for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage's socks Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage and prospective candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg wait at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters listen as Farage speaks AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Free T-shirts for all attendees AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Posters on the seats for supporters of the Brexit Party AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A safety sign is pictured AFP/Getty It needs a new agenda, he continued. It needs to win over supporters who have disappeared from it and it needs to make an appeal to the urban, metropolitan Britain that has currently turned its back on conservatism. If that continues to be the trend, then there wont be a Conservative government for much longer. Mr Osborne, who was famously sacked by Ms May in one of her first acts after taking power in 2016, added: There is a point where you have to ask yourself how many more elections are we going to lose? We lost the majority in 2017, we got hammered in the local elections earlier this month and now we have got the European elections where it is possible that for the first time in its long and distinguished history the Conservative Party is going to come fourth in a national poll. Essentially, there is a responsibility on current MPs and indeed the supporters in the country to do something. It is within their hands. You cant just say its all beyond my control. If you are a member of the cabinet, you have a responsibility. He also said Jeremy Corbyns incentive was not to rescue the prime minister in cross-party Brexit talks but to replace her in Downing Street, adding: I dont know how much longer the Conservative Party will give her but I would find it extremely odd if we got to the Conservative Party conference and there was still Theresa May giving the leaders speech. I think we are going to know within a couple of weeks whether theres any prospect of a deal between Jeremy Corbyn and Theresa May and whether the Labour Party are going to rescue her premiership. Once it becomes clear that they are not going to rescue her premiership, I dont really see the point of going on. There arent Brexit negotiations. It is just that Theresa May and the government dont want to break off the talks because that would be an admission that they have run out of options. The former chancellors comments came after Sir Graham said outside a meeting of the 1922 committee on Wednesday he had held two meetings with the prime minister in recent days. He refused to confirm to journalists whether her departure from Downing Street will be discussed next week, but a second Tory MP declared: A week has been bought. Sir Graham also said it was the governments intention to bring back the withdrawal agreement bill sooner rather than later and before the European elections. Exiting the meeting, the Conservative MP and Brexiteer Nadine Dorries also expressed impatience, adding: Shes [Ms May] not given any decision, theres no timetable and they need to get on with it. We need to make sure we get that final decisions soon because everybody needs it. John Bercow, the Commons speaker, has riled members from both sides of the aisle thanks to his handling of the Brexit process in Parliament in recent months but he can count on some unlikely admirers overseas. Chinas ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Zhang Xiangchen, has been keeping track of the Brexit debates and told a meeting in Geneva that the organisation could learn a thing or two from Mr Bercow. I very much like the style and the voice of John Bercow, who is the speaker of the House of Commons, Mr Zhang said. The subject of Mr Bercows voice has become a regular subject of discussion around Westminster. The speaker has had a number of run-ins with MPs, including when then-health minister Simon Burns called the 5ft 6in Mr Bercow a stupid, sanctimonious dwarf after being admonished in the Commons in 2010. In 2017, Mr Bercow sparked debate after speaking out against Donald Trump addressing Parliament saying that given Mr Trumps rhetoric, racism and sexism were important considerations. Mr Trump has repeatedly denied being racist or sexist. How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit Show all 10 1 /10 How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Independent How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Times How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Telegraph How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Mirror How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Metro How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The I How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Guardian How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Financial Times How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Daily Mail How newspapers reported MPs seizing control of Brexit The Daily Express A number of Conservatives believe that Mr Bercow strayed from his politically neutral brief in giving those remarks, and a number in Parliament believe he has done so again in his treatment of Brexit. Mr Bercow said that Parliamentary rules dating back to the 17th century stopped Theresa Mays government from bringing the same Brexit motion to repeated votes without substantial changes a ruling that caused consternation on the Conservative benches. However, Mr Zhang called it an important decision and said it was something the WTO should ape. I think perhaps we should consider having similar rules to ensure the quality of our discussions, Mr Zhang said. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The WTO has been squabbling for years about changes to his rules, with nations like China saying more needs to be done to help developing nations. In Washington, the Trump administration has pushed for changes saying that the current protocols are unfair on the US. Theresa May will defy growing pressure from Conservative MPs to speed up her resignation, vowing to stay until Brexit is completed however long that takes. Backbench Tories will meet later today, having given the prime minister an ultimatum to make clear she will quit No 10 by the summer in all circumstances. But her spokesman insisted she would defy her own MPs, saying: That is the timetable she is working towards she wants to get Brexit done. With the likely collapse of talks with Labour, it means Ms May is attempting to cling on until at least the autumn, with the next Brexit deadline with EU not until 31 October. The defiance comes despite another Conservative MP, Brexiteer Andrea Jenkyns, openly calling for her to resign, during prime ministers questions. Ms May was told she had failed to deliver EU withdrawal, cost the Tory party 1,300 hardworking councillors in last weeks local elections disaster and that the public no longer trust her to run Brexit negotiations. The crisis will come to a head at a late-afternoon meeting of leading members of the 1922 Committee of Tory MPs, who two weeks ago demanded a clear roadmap to a resignation. Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Nigel Farage speaks at the launch of his new Brexit Party's campaign for the European elections Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Brexit Party candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg, sister of Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, speaks at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A supporter waits for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters wait for Farage to speak AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage's socks Reuters Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Farage and prospective candidate Annunziata Rees-Mogg wait at the launch AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Supporters listen as Farage speaks AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Free T-shirts for all attendees AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures Posters on the seats for supporters of the Brexit Party AFP/Getty Farage launches his new Brexit Party: in pictures A safety sign is pictured AFP/Getty But, asked if Ms May would comply, the spokesman made clear she would not agree to go before Brexit, even if no deal can be passed in the next two months. The prime minister made a very generous and bold offer to the 1922 committee, a few weeks ago, that she would see through phase 1 of the Brexit process and she would leave and open it up for new leadership for phase 2, he said. Asked, by The Independent, if there was any level of pressure from Conservatives that could change her mind, the spokesman replied: She has laid out the timetable. Graham Brady, the head of the 1922 Committee, met the prime minister on Tuesday, and will report back to its executive members at 4pm. If she refuses to quit by the summer, the body will consider rewriting the rules to allow an immediate fresh vote of no confidence which otherwise cannot take place before December. The spokesman also could to say whether the Conservatives would launch a campaign for the European elections after the confirmation they will go ahead publish a manifesto, or whether Ms May would play a role. He claimed the partys efforts were up and running, on the basis that candidates had been announced and a mailshot issued to households. In the Commons, Ms Jenkyns told the prime minister: The public no longer trust her to run Brexit negotiations. Isn't it time to step aside and let someone else lead our country, our party and the Brexit negotiations?" She retorted: This is not an issue about me and it's not an issue about her. If it were an issue about me and the way I vote, we would already have left the European Union. Andrea Leadsom has said she is "seriously considering" standing to succeed Theresa May and claimed a Eurosceptic prime minister would have delivered Brexit by now. The leader of the Commons confirmed that she was weighing up another leadership bid, having reached the final round of the 2016 contest before withdrawing from the race. Ms Leadsom, a vocal Brexiteer, has strongly defended the prime minister's Brexit deal but admitted she was "disgusted" that the UK has still not left the EU almost three years after the Leave vote. She suggested "things might have been different" had there been a "determined Brexiteer" in Downing Street, but defended Ms May's handling of Brexit. The prime minister is facing fresh pressure to resign after the Tories' abysmal performance in local elections earlier this month. Her future is likely to be the main topic of discussion when Tory MPs hold their regular meeting on Wednesday afternoon. Critics of the prime minister have urged the executive of the 1922 Committee, which represents backbench Tory MPs, to change party rules to allow another vote of no confidence in her this summer, but it has so far refused to do so. That could change if Ms May refuses to lay out a timetable for her departure. Asked whether she was planning a bid to succeed Ms May, Ms Leadsom told ITV's Good Morning Britain: "I've supported her for the last three years to get Brexit over the line. "She has said she is going, so yes I am seriously considering standing." She added: "If you had a determined Brexiteer I suspect things might have been different, we might have been out by now on WTO terms, but on the other hand you would have left the country very divided." Ms Leadsom insisted she was "sticking with the prime minister" to deliver Brexit, despite Ms May's failure to secure parliament's backing for her exit plan, and blamed MPs for the current deadlock. Ms Leadsom said: I'm absolutely making no apologies for parliament. I'm disgusted at the fact that nearly three years on we still haven't left the EU. We should have been out by 29 March." She defended Ms May's deal but said she would be happy with a no-deal outcome, because Britain is "very well prepared". Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Show all 9 1 /9 Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Boris Johnson Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson has long been hopeful, he previously stood in the leadership contest that followed the Brexit vote and has at many times since been thought to be maneuvering himself towards the goal. He remains a darling of the party's right wing, particularly those in the ERG, and is the most popular choice among Tory voters but his leadership bid would be fiercely opposed by many MPs PA Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Michael Gove Environment secretary Michael Gove is another member who has long wanted to be leader. He has lately been known for rousing his party in the commons, his recent speeches on the Brexit deal and Labour's no confidence motion have overshadowed the Prime Minister's. He has been loyal to the Prime Minister, partly to shed his reputation as a backstabber who abandoned Boris Johnson to stand against him in the 2016 leadership election Getty Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Dominic Raab Former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab has emerged as a favourite to be the Brexiteer candidate in a contest to succeed to Ms May. He displayed a grip on detail in his role as Brexit secretary. When asked recently if he would like to become prime minister he replied "never say never" Getty Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Rory Stewart International development secretary Rory Stewart is pitching himself as the sensible candidate, promising to rule out both a second referendum and a no-deal Brexit. He was only recently promoted to the cabinet, previously serving as prisons minister, where he caught headlines with a pledge to resign if he could not reduce levels of violence within a year PA Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Esther McVey The former work and pensions secretary announced that she will be standing for the leadership when May leaves. McVey is the first to explicitly state that she intends to stand. She resigned from the cabinet in protest over May's Brexit deal AFP/Getty Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Sajid Javid Home secretary Sajid Javid is said to have a plan in place for a leadership race. He made headlines over Christmas when he declared that people smuggling over the English channel was a "major incident" and more recently when he revoked the citizenship of ISIS bride Shamima Begum. Son of a bus driver, he wants the Conservatives to be seen as the party of social mobility PA Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Jeremy Hunt Foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt was recently thought to be the favourite in the event of a leadership race as he could sell himself as the man to unite the party. Critics worry that his long stint as health secretary could return to haunt him at a general election. He has reportedly been holding meetings with Tory MPs over breakfast to promote his leadership PA Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Andrea Leadsom Following the Prime Minister's second defeat over her Brexit deal, Leader of the house Andrea Leadsom hosted a dinner party at which "leadership was the only topic of conversation", The Times heard. Leadsom ran against Theresa May in the 2016 leadership election before dropping out, allowing May to become Prime Minister AFP/Getty Who could succeed Theresa May as Conservative leader? Priti Patel Former international development secretary Priti Patel is thought to be positioning herself as a contender. One MP told The Independent "she knows she's from the right of the party, the part which is going to choose the next leader, so she's reminding everyone she's there." Patel left the government late in 2017 after it emerged that she had held undisclosed meetings with Israeli officials PA Of the deal, she said: I would say it's tolerable, it is leaving the European Union. It's not what I wanted - I've really struggled with it. I've always felt that no deal would not be ideal for the country [but] right now I would be prepared to have no deal. I think the country is very well prepared for that. The Commons leader also dismissed Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party as "a one trick pony" when asked about its surge in the polls. She said: "They are about leaving the EU and actually they would find if they were in government, which they wouldn't be, they could not deliver this with this parliamentary arithmetic any more than the current government can." But when it was suggested by presenter Piers Morgan that the new party could take enough votes from the Conservatives to keep the Tories out of power, she replied: "That is very true." Body camera footage from an police officer shows him shooting a 14-year-old boy moments after telling his dispatch that he believed the boy was unarmed. I think its a cap gun, Sergeant Kyle Holcomb says in a video released by victim Lorenzo Clerkley Jrs lawyer on Tuesday, but they are shooting something off. Lorenzo was shot twice, once in the hip and once in the leg, by the officer on March 10 in Oklahoma City after Sgt Holcomb responded to a call regarding an abandoned house. Lorenzo and friends were at the home shooting airsoft guns. When Sgt Holcomb approached the house, peering through a hole in the homes fence, he shot at Lorenzo seconds after giving a warning. Lorenzo has since recovered enough to return to school, but must treat his exit wounds daily. Sgt Holcomb maintained after shooting the boy that he believed Lorenzo was armed. After Oklahoma County District Attorney David W Prate declined to press charges, Sgt Holcomb returned to work at the Oklahoma City Police Department following a paid leave. After witnessing the body-camera footage, Lorenzos family believes the shooting was unjustified, and is now preparing to file a lawsuit. In the video, Sgt Holcomb approaches the house and tells his dispatch that the thinks the guns are cap guns. He then approaches the backyard of the house, gives a warning for the unknown person to drop your weapon, and, less than second later, fires four shots. Later, the video shows the officer standing over Lorenzo, who is lying face-down on the ground in handcuffs. Sgt Holcomb raises Lorenzos shirt to inspect his wound and tells the boy youre okay. He does not appear to respond to Lorenzos follow-up question: was it a bullet? In a conversation in which another officer asks Sgt Holcomb if he was okay, he responds yeah, and tells his partner he doesnt want to move the boy while they wait for emergency medical services because the bullets in his hip. His partner keeps an automatic weapon pointed at the boy as the boy starts to cry. Are you hurt anywhere else other than your hip? the officer asks. Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Black Lives Matter protesters march through the streets as they demonstrate the decision by Sacramento District Attorney to not charge the police officers who shot and killed Stephon Clark last year Getty Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Dominique Harrell stands in solidarity as she joins other protesters staging a sit-in for Stephon Clark at Arden Fair Mall in Sacramento AP Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Representing a group called A.N.S.W.E.R Coalition (Act Now to Stop War and End Racism), Jamier Sale leads a crowd of about 50 people in protest of the Sacramento DA's ruling on the Stephon Clark case AP Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Black Lives Matter protesters march through the streets as they demonstrate the decision by Sacramento District Attorney to not charge the police officers who shot and killed Stephon Clark last year Getty Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Black Lives Matter protesters march through the streets as they demonstrate the decision by Sacramento District Attorney to not charge the police officers who shot and killed Stephon Clark last year Getty Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Black Lives Matter protesters block an entrance to a Trader Joe's store as they demonstrate the decision by Sacramento DA's on the Stephon Clark case Getty Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Protesters hold signs bearing a graphic of Stephon Martin Getty Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Black Lives Matter protesters march through the streets as they demonstrate the decision by Sacramento District Attorney to not charge the police officers who shot and killed Stephon Clark last year Getty Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Black Lives Matter protesters march through the streets as they demonstrate the decision by Sacramento District Attorney to not charge the police officers who shot and killed Stephon Clark last year Getty Police shooting verdict sparks protest in California: in pictures Protesters stage a sit-in for Stephon Clark at Arden Fair Mall in Sacramento AP My thigh, the boy says through tears, still face-down. Without asking for permission, Sgt Holcomb pulls the boys pants down and inspects him for blood. The Oklahoma City Police Department has released a photo of the airsoft gun they recovered from the scene, which a spokesperson for the Department says resembles a real gun. Lorenzos lawyer maintains that the shooting was not justified. According to the Washington Post, the video continues for nearly 10 and a half minutes following the shooting and does not ever show any medical services arriving. A dead grey whale washed ashore in San Francisco on Monday, the ninth dead whale found in the Bay Area in the last two months. The Marine Mammal Centre confirmed to NBC Bay Area that it performed a necropsy, or animal autopsy, on the whale on Tuesday. The necropsy showed that the whale died from blunt force trauma, likely from striking a ship. The Marine Mammal Centre's research shows that three of the whales its found have died as a result of ship strikes, with the most recent whale likely included. Four others died from malnutrition. The cause of death of the eighth whale washed ashore in the Bay Area is unknown. Dr Padraig J Duignan, the chief research pathologist at the Marine Mammal Centre, led the research team during Tuesdays necropsy. He told CBS that the number of whales dying from malnutrition is due to a lack of food in the Arctic, leaving whales migrating during the fall in bad shape. Fifty per cent of the population was judged to be below normal body condition, Dr Duignan said, explaining that the malnourishment continued from fall into winter. Thats a lot of time and a lot of energy without any additional food. The first two grey whales found dead this year were calves, who are less adept at surviving with little to eat. Last year, more whales died from being struck by ships off the coast of California than ever before since the National Marine Fisheries Service began tracking ship strikes in 1982. Tragic photos show beached whales Show all 15 1 /15 Tragic photos show beached whales Tragic photos show beached whales A dead sperm whale lies on Hunstanton beach in Norfolk on 5 February 2016 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales Volunteers pour buckets of water over the 80 remaining live pilot whales found stranded on remote Ocean Beach on New Zealand's southern-most Stewart island, 8 January 2003 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales Contractors clear away the body of one of the dead 48ft sperm whales that were washed-up on a beach near Gibraltar Point in Skegness, Lincolnshire in 2016 PA Tragic photos show beached whales People pass by a beached whale at the Pointe de la Torche, near Brest in France on 29 November 2011 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales A woman touches the tail of a large whale carcass on Wattamola Beach at the Royal National Park in Sydney on 25 September 2018 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales Beached humpback whale in California, 2015 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales Dead long fin pilot whales at Hamelin Bay on Australia's west coast on 23 March 2009 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales A 36ft sperm whale lies dead on the beach at Sutton Bridge, in The Wash, off the Lincolnshire coast, where it became stranded in 2004 PA Tragic photos show beached whales A female fin whale opens its mouth as it lies stranded and alive on the beach at Carlyon Bay, Cornwall on 13 August 2012 Getty Tragic photos show beached whales The lower jaw of a dead sperm whale that stranded itself on a beach in Hunstanton, Norfolk on 5 February 2016 Getty Tragic photos show beached whales One of the five sperm whales that were found washed ashore on beaches near Skegness, Lincolnshire over the weekend on 25 January 2016 Getty Tragic photos show beached whales Employees at work to skin the remains of a beached 60ft whale on 25 January 2013 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales Two long-finned pilot whales are stranded on a beach in the northern French city of Calais on 2 November 2015 AFP/Getty Tragic photos show beached whales A sperm whale lies dead after becoming stranded on a beach in Hunstanton, Norfolk on 5 February 2016 Getty Tragic photos show beached whales Crowds gather as a sperm whale lies dead after becoming stranded on a beach in Hunstanton, Norfolk on 5 February 2016 Getty A local news station says the San Francisco Bay Area normally sees only 1-2 dead whales per year, making this years number of deaths alarming. "The death of nine grey whales in the San Francisco Bay Area this year is a cause for serious concern and reinforces the need to continue to perform and share the results of these type of investigations with key decision-makers," Dr Padraig Duignan, Chief Research Pathologist at The Marine Mammal Centre, said in a statement. "We are committed to partnering with organisations and individuals to find long-term environmental solutions to prevent these deaths in the future." The 2017 edition of the Wall High School yearbook had something missing - the slogan "TRUMP Make America Great Again!" was edited out of at least one student's T-shirt. Grant Berardo wore the shirt on photo day for his junior class picture. But when the yearbook came out, the slogan was not there. Instead, his dark-coloured T-shirt was blank. The former yearbook advisor, Susan Parsons, was blamed for the change and was put on paid leave when Berardo and his family accused her of censoring him. Now, Ms Parsons is saying it was the school that asked her to do so and that she opposed the change. In fact, she said, she voted for Donald Trump in the 2016 election. A secretary at Wall High School in central New Jersey told Ms Parsons, the yearbook advisor, that the student's shirt "has to go," Ms Parsons said in a lawsuit filed earlier this week, and that the district forbade Ms Parsons from telling news reporters she had opposed the edit. Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Show all 16 1 /16 Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Anti-Trump protesters gather outside of the rally Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A supporter of the president waiting for the rally Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Anti-Trump protesters wield picket signs Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A Trump supporter outside of the Mckenzie Arena in Chattanooga prior to the President's appearance Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Anti-Trump protesters gather outside of the rally with signs Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A t-shirt for sale at the rally Lucy Gray Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A crowd gathers in waiting for the rally Lucy Gray Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A Trump memorabilia stand outside of the rally EPA Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Trump supporters cheer as the President arrives to the rally AP Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump stands with Lee Greenwood as he sings 'God Bless the USA' to commence the rally Reuters Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee A supporter listens as President Trump speaks EPA Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump addresses supporters AP Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump thanks Senate candidate Marsha Blackburn after her speech EPA Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Supporters of the president wield signs during the rally Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee Trump supporters cheer during the rally AFP/Getty Inside a Make America Great Again rally in Chattanooga, Tennessee President Trump exits the stage AP "The motivating reason for this lawsuit is so that she has the ability to get her story out to the world," her attorney, Christopher Eibeler, told The Washington Post. Ms Parsons, a technology teacher who has been with Wall High School since 2003, said she received a death threat, got other harassing messages and heard people outside her home soon after the incident became public. She was denied her annual raise after the district's investigation into the incident and, though she still teaches at the school, no longer oversees the yearbook staff, the lawsuit said. "This is 'hate mail,'" read an anonymous letter to Ms Parsons, according to the lawsuit. "You deserve it. Deal with it." Ms Parsons' legal action, first reported by NJ.com, is the latest update to one of many recent incidents in which school districts have drawn public ire for allegedly censoring political or controversial messages. An Oregon high school student got a $25,000 (19,231) settlement last year after he said he was punished for wearing a shirt that supported Mr Trump's proposed border wall. In Minnesota, a student said the words "Deport racists" were removed from a photo of his shirt before his high school tweeted it. Mr Berardo's father previously told The Post that the 2016 presidential contest was the first election his son had shown interest in. "His question was, 'Is it OK? Did someone do something here that they shouldn't have done?'" Joseph Berardo said in 2017. "That's why I'm pursuing it." District superintendent Cheryl Dyer said that she investigated the photo's censorship soon after it happened and that the district was considering its legal options. "I'm confident that when the full facts come to light, all of the actions of this office and the Board of Education will be found to be wholly appropriate," Ms Dyer said in an emailed statement. Donald Trump calls the FBI scum at rally in Wisconsin Two other students, Wyatt and Montana Dobrovich-Fago, had also complained that their references to Mr Trump were removed from the yearbook. A student on the yearbook staff had mistakenly left out a quote attributed to Mr Trump, the lawsuit said, and the district's outside photographer had cropped a Trump logo out of a photo. Mr Trump waded into the controversy in 2017 to thank Wyatt and Montana for publicising the omissions. "Thank you Wyatt and Montana - two young Americans who aren't afraid to stand up for what they believe in. Our movement to #MAGA is working because of great people like you!" read a post on the president's Facebook page. His campaign sent the students a letter and "Make America Great Again" memorabilia. Wall High School's administration signs off on all pages of the yearbook every year, the lawsuit said, and it directed Ms Parsons to make several changes in 2017. Ms Parsons said she pushed back on several edit requests and told the administration that the "yearbook should reflect reality." Ms Dyer told the public that the district's dress code does not ban political speech, the lawsuit said, and that the school had been unaware of the edits. Ms Dyer added that the district does not condone censorship, according to the lawsuit. The district's media policy bans teachers from talking to reporters without the superintendent's consent. Ms Parsons said in the lawsuit that she was reprimanded when she was quoted by the New York Post as saying, "We have never made any action against any political party." Ms Dyer wrote in a letter to parents in 2017 that the yearbooks would be corrected and reissued. Ms Parsons' lawsuit said the school district's media policy violates her First Amendment rights and she asked that it be found unconstitutional so she can speak publicly. "If and when she's able to speak to the media," Mr Eibeler said, "she intends to." The Washington Post Three members of Robert F Kennedy Jrs family have denounced his anti-vaccination views arguing, that he is part of heartbreaking misinformation campaign. Despite repeated attempts from health authorities to dispel false narratives that seek to undermine the science behind vaccines, Mr Kennedy Jr is one of a number of notable anti-vaccine activists. He wrote a book in 2014 about a mercury compound which has been used in a limited number of vaccines and claiming a link to brain disorders. There is no scientific evidence of a link between the compound, thimerosal, and autism. Former Maryland lieutenant governor Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, former US Representative Joseph P Kennedy II and Maeve Kennedy McKean have said that they can no longer stand by and allow him to air such views, particularly in the wake of a measles outbreak that has struck 22 states across the US. They called the views wrong. Robert F Kennedy Jr Joe and Kathleens brother and Maeves uncle is part of this campaign to attack the institutions committed to reducing the tragedy of preventable infectious diseases, the three wrote in an opinion piece for Politco. According to the latest figures from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) there have been 764 cases of measles reported since 1 January, including communities in New York state and elsewhere where anti-vaccine views have influence. The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Show all 7 1 /7 The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Charlie Sheen Sheen fought a legal battle against ex-wife Denise Richards to try and block her from vaccinating their children. Richards of course won and Sheen was reportedly so bitter that he paid the paediatrician bill entirely in nickels Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Gwyneth Paltrow Paltrow's "health and wellness" company Goop hosted a notorious anti-vaccine speaker at their 2018 Goop Summit Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Rob Schneider Schneider demanded the freedom to decline vaccination Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Jenny McCarthy McCarthy has claimed that "people are dying from vaccinations", believes that her son caught autism from a vaccine and has pushed her opinions on the topic publicly for many years AFP/Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Bill Maher Maher has long spoken against vaccines sating on Larry King live that "a flu shot is the worst thing you can do." His stance appears to stem from a distrust of government AFP/Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Alicia Silverstone In Silverstone's book The Kind Mama, she wrote that "there is increasing anecdotal evidence from doctors who have gotten distressed phone calls from parents claiming their child was never the same after receiving a vaccine." Getty The famous faces of the anti-vaccine movement Andrew Wakefield Godfather of the anti-vax movement, disgraced doctor Andrew Wakefield famously published a report in the medical journal Lancet claiming a link between the MMR vaccine and autism in 1998. The Lancet retracted the report in 2010 and Wakefield was struck off the medical register PA These tragic numbers are caused by the growing fear and mistrust of vaccines amplified by internet doomsayers, the three family members wrote, adding that Mr Kennedy Jr the son of presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy helped to spread dangerous misinformation over social media and is complicit in sowing distrust of the science behind vaccines. Bringing up Mr Kennedy Jrs uncle, President John F Kennedy, the op-ed states that the Kennedy family has a proud tradition of public health advocacy it adds: President Kennedy signed the Vaccination Assistance Act in 1962 to, in the words of a CDC report, achieve as quickly as possible the protection of the population, especially of all preschool children ... through intensive immunisation activity. In the days before Donald Trump moved into the White House January 2017, Mr Kennedy Jr told reporters that the president was planning a vaccine safety review panel, and had been asked to head up the review. Mr Trumps team later said that the president had been merely looking into the possibility of setting up such a group. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Mr Trump himself has a history of linking autism to vaccines despite the lack of evidence tweeting in 2014: Healthy young child goes to doctor, gets pumped with massive shot of many vaccines, doesnt feel good and changes AUTISM. Many such cases! He also mentioned the same issue in a presidential debate. However, given the significance of what is the first large-scale outbreak of measles in decades, Mr Trump said last month that children have to get their shots adding that vaccinations are so important. A city in the US state of Texas has elected a dead man to be its new mayor. Maypearl, in Ellis county, faces the task of appointing a new mayor with victor Philip Veltman, 71, having died on 15 March after having filed to run for office. Mr Veltman, who died from complications relating to leukaemia, received 68 of the 110 votes cast. John Wayne Pruitt received 42 in Sunday's poll, according to the local election board. The city council in Maypearl, which had a population of 934 in the last US census in 2010, is now tasked with appointing a new mayor. Discussions over the new official will take place at the next council meeting on 13 May. A new election could take place, but Maypearl officials will consult with Texas state about the next steps in what is an unprecedented situation for the city. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty Mr Veltman was born in Indiana before moving to Dallas, Texas early in his life. He was a teacher for 12 years after graduating college before beginning a 30-year career with soft-drink manufacturer Dr. Pepper, according to an obituary by Boze-Mitchell-Mckibbin funeral home. Mr Veltman moved to Maypearl in 1990 and among other things he spent nine years on the local school board. The Texas mayor is not the first person to have been voted into office after having died. In the midterm elections last year Nevada brothel owner and reality TV star Dennis Hof won a state assembly seat having died a few weeks before on 16 October. Chuck Muth, his campaign manager, tweeted in the wake of that victory: My man Dennis Hof crushed his opponent from the great beyond... so I'm celebrating. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events In Congress, Democrat Mel Carnahan won a Senate seat in Missouri in 2000 over current Republican incumbent John Ashcroft. Mr Carnaham died in a plane crash on his way to a campaign event three weeks before the November election. His eldest son and a political advisor also died in the crash. Mr Carnaham's widow, Jean, who finished his campaign was appointed to a two-year term in the Senate before a special election was held in 2002. Christopher Fultz peered at his phone during a break at his job as a paramedic and saw an unusual text displaying his name in all caps. Click on the link, said the message, which was from a number he did not recognise. Mr Fultz initially ignored the text but eventually followed the link leading to a website asking for his Social Security number. Mr Fultz said he then realised a debt collector who repeatedly called and left what he considered threatening voicemails had found a new way into his life. "I was appalled. They can't send text messages if it's a debt collector," said Mr Fultz, of Ohio. "It was just shocking that they would do that. It felt like a scam." He filed suit, and the debt collection company paid him $3,500 (2,679) as part of a settlement. For decades, debt collectors have relied on a limited set of communication tools: landlines and the US mail. Now they are finding increasingly personal ways to reach the millions of Americans regulators say have been contacted by debt collectors. Some debt collectors worry that these contacts fall into a legal grey area because the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act was written more than 40 years ago and does not directly address digital communications. Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Show all 20 1 /20 Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Donald Trump's Cabinet Donald Trump's Cabinet is one the richest in American history, filled with billionaires, conservatives and several career politicians. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mike Pence US Vice President Mike Pence has defended Donald Trump throughout his presidency while walking a fine line to avoid any public involvement in major scandals. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mike Pompeo Secretary of State Mike Pompeo replaced Donald Trump's previous appointment to the post, Rex Tillerson, and has led talks with North Korea in establishing high-profile summits between the president and Kim Jong Un. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Wilbur Ross Secretary of Commerce Wibur Ross raised controversy when he was accused of falsely claiming to have sold stock in a bank and violated a government ethics agreement. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Lighthizer US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has been a fixture in Donald Trump's ongoing trade spat with China. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet William Barr Attorney General William Barr replaced Jeff Sessions as the nation's top cop in early 2019 and has refused to commit to recusing himself from the Russia probe despite an unsolicited memo he sent to the Justice Department decrying the investigation. EPA Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Rick Perry Energy Secretary Rick Perry has held his post throughout Donald Trump's presidency despite previously undermining the need for the agency he now leads in past public statements. Ken Shipp / United States Department of Energy Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Betsy DeVos Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has also held her post throughout the presidency, despite major backlash to her apparent undermining of the nationwide public school system and advocacy for charter programmes. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Steven Mnuchin Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has faced numerous controversies throughout his tenure as the head of Treasury, including costing taxpayers at least a million dollars in travel expenses. AP Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Wilkie Veterans Affairs secretary Robert Wilkie was appointed after Donald Trump's White House doctor Ronny Jackson withdrew over allegations he provided prescription drugs to patients without prescriptions. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet David Bernhardt Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt took office in January 2019 after the resignation of Ryan Zinke after previously serving as Zinke's deputy. Before taking office Bernhardt worked for many years as a solicitor for the Department of the Interior. Tami Heilemann / United States Department of the Interior Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Elaine Chao Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao has held her post throughout the presidency and has mostly avoided controversy, despite a report claiming her office has been in frequent coordination with her husband's, Mitch McConnell. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Kevin McAleenan Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin McAleenan took over from Kirstjen Nielsen after she resigned in April 2019. He previously worked as the executive director of the executive director of the Office of Anti Terrorism in the Customs and Border Protection agency United States Customs and Border Protection Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Ben Carson Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson was appointed shortly after Donald Trump took office and raised controversy over an exorbitant furnishing bill for his office. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Gina Haspel CIA Director Gina Haspel was appointed in 2018 and faced backlash surrounding her oversight of Guantanamo Bay. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Dan Coats Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats could be the next person to leave Donald Trump's administration over his refuting the president's claims surrounding ISIS. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Sonny Perdue Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue has been dogged by ethics questions throughout his tenure and faced controversy when emails showed the agency appeared willing to eagerly work with lobbyists under his leadership. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Alex Azar Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar is a former pharmaceutical lobbyist and former drug company executive. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mick Mulvaney Acting Chief of Staff and Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney has described himself as one of the most conservative officials in the White House. EPA Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Wilkie Secretary of State for Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie has spent his career on Capitol Hill serving in various roles in foreign affairs and defence. He holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force Reserve. Gene Russell / United States Department of Veterans Affairs The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on Tuesday proposed rules that would give the industry the go-ahead to send consumers unlimited amounts of texts and emails, accelerating a trend the watchdog bureau says could be beneficial for everyone. The proposal is a victory for debt collectors such as San Francisco-based TrueAccord. Instead of making a barrage of phone calls, TrueAccord sends out millions of emails and texts every month. Next, it hopes to contact delinquent consumers through chat applications such as WhatsApp. "When you have a good online digital presence, you don't need to make those calls," said Ohad Samet, the company's co-founder and CEO. "The only question here is why hasn't everyone else moved to digital first models yet." But this digital-first approach has alarmed consumer advocates who worry the CFPB could give an industry known for high pressure tactics a new way to violate consumers' privacy. While many Americans understand how to deal with a pesky creditor calling their landline, their texts, emails and social media are new, more personal territory. "People are able to ignore phone calls, and that is the thing debt collectors don't like," said David Phillips, an Illinois attorney who has filed dozens of suits against debt collectors. "It's as if a debt collector is able to show up at your house and pound on the door. That is the effect of a text message." In addition to addressing the use of email and text communications, the bureau also proposed limiting the number times a debt collector could call someone to seven times in a week. After reaching the consumer, the debt collector would not be allowed to call again for a week. It would also update the disclosures the companies must provide in written communications. Consumers could still tell debt collectors to stop contacting them in any way, under the law. The debt collection industry said it appreciates the CFPB proposal, but it called the cap on the number of phone calls it can make "arbitrary." The proposed rules would "unnecessarily impede communications with consumers," said a statement from Leah Dempsey, senior counsel for ACA International, a large industry lobbying group. Consumer groups that had called for the CFPB to limit the industry to three calls a week were unhappy with the proposed rules. The cap would apply to individual debts owed by the consumer, said Linda Jun, senior policy counsel at Americans for Financial Reform. Someone with more than one bill in collections could quickly be inundated, Ms Jun said. "It could add up quickly," she said. If the debt collectors emailed or texted too often, it would be considered harassment and be illegal, according to the CFPB. But unlike with phone calls, the bureau is not proposing a specific cap on the number of contacts. The proposal also asks debt collectors whether they anticipate using social media to contact consumers while prohibiting such contact if it could be viewed by a third party. Some debt collectors have already found ways to use social media. Touching moment 22-year-old baseball pitcher's parents find out he has paid off their debt for Christmas Diandra Rivera of Brooklyn said she stopped posting to Facebook and closed her LinkedIn account after realising debt collectors had started monitoring the sites. One combed through her LinkedIn page to find a former boss and even family members, who the debt collector then contacted, she said. Another monitored her Facebook page. During phone calls with the debt collection agency, the representative would mention social outings she had posted on Facebook, Ms Rivera said. The agent questioned why she was behind in repaying her student loan payments if she could afford to go to Applebee's, Ms Rivera said. "It was really creepy," she said. The proposed rules are likely to set up a battle between debt collectors and consumer advocates. The CFPB received about 81,500 complaints about debt collectors in 2018, according to a report released in March, making the industry one of the agency's most common sources of consumer complaints. Giving debt collectors such wide latitude to expand digital communication is unwarranted, said Christine Hines, legislative director for the National Association of Consumer Advocates. "With the extreme examples of debt collectors harassment and invasion of consumers' privacy that we've seen, it's always a bad idea to exempt debt collectors from liability or grant them a safe harbour, in any circumstance," she said. "Seems like an invitation to encourage more abuse not deter it." But some industry officials say the move into the digital space could be transformative. Debt collectors are already combing through social media to track consumers' digital footprints and building models to determine whether they would be more likely to respond to male or female voices. TrueAccord, launched in 2014, has been attempting to put a friendly face on the debt collection industry and rarely calls consumers, said Mr Samet, the co-founder. The company "crunches a lot of data" to build a profile of consumers, based on what kind of products they have purchased and on their previous responses to attempted contacts, he said. Ninety per cent of the company's communication with consumers does not involve human-to-human interaction, he said. "There is machine learning at play here," he said. Mr Samet said he believes consumers appreciate TrueAccord's approach. Text messages and emails are a "channel you engage with more frequently, but if you don't like my email, it's a swipe of the finger to make me go away. You can set up filters. You can do a lot of things to manage your communications," he said. Donald Trump's tax return in numbers The CFPB has received more than 50 complaints about TrueAccord since 2015, according to the bureau's database, which does not identify complainants. "This lady keeps emailing me constantly. She has even went so far as to tell me that she knows I am opening the emails. She is harassing me at this point," according to a complaint filed with the CFPB earlier this year. "This is not okay. Please help me." In 2017, a consumer told the CFPB that TrueAccord had been too aggressive. "This email was written in such a matter (as) to convince me that they will threaten me both physically and try to ruin my reputation. They stated they would use any means available to collect the money they say is owed," according to the complaint. Mr Samet said the complaints are typical of the kind received by other service companies such as Comcast and a "fraction" of what competitors receive. "We never want people to complain," he said. Digital communications from creditors can sometimes be helpful to consumers. Emails and text messages create a footprint that can be used to track down debt collectors hiding behind PO boxes and shell companies, said Ohio attorney Jonathan Hilton, who practices consumer law. In some cases, Mr Hilton said he has subpoenaed Google or mobile phone companies to find the names, addresses and even bank account information of debt collectors. "It's very useful from the investigative side," he said. Vicki Chester, a retired nurse's assistant, said she was being inundated with phone calls from a debt collector about an old $350 debt for months before she relented and made two $60 payments. "The calls were nasty," said Ms Chester, a client of Mr Hilton. "I was tossing and turning every night, wondering if I am going to be picked up." Finally, she asked the debt collector to send her an email with details about the debt. That is when Ms Chester said she realised she was being hounded about money she did not owe. "I realised, this isn't my debt," said Ms Chester, who received a $6,000 settlement against the debt collection agency. "They had the wrong Vicki." The 1977 Fair Debt Collection Practices Act was written before mobile phones became the constant companion of millions of Americans. The law prohibits debt collectors from calling before 8am or after 9pm and prohibits harassment. But it did not directly address most forms of digital communication. The CFPB proposal would change that, which would be a relief for Elle Gusman. Minnesota-based Direct Recovery Services has experimented with text messages and emails, said Ms Gusman, who founded the company in 2012. Emails were effective initially but then began getting flagged as spam by Google, especially when sent out in large batches, she said. The company even created a new domain name, but words included in the emails or their attachments - such as debt, password, account, pay online - would get flagged, she said. "It won't go through," said Ms Gusman. Consumers also appeared to like receiving text messages about their delinquent bills, said Ms Gusman. "Millennials just want to go online and pay" their bills, she said. "It would be crazy, within an hour of just sending our messages, we would get 20, 30 payments online." Sending the messages was expensive, said Ms Gusman, and it was difficult to include all of the required disclosures in a few characters. One of the people Direct Recovery Services texted was Mr Fultz, the Ohio paramedic, who said he found the messages intrusive. The company has stopped the practice, but Ms Gusman said she hopes the CFPB proposal will allow the company to try again. The Washington Post Fox & Friends hosts grappled with the New York Timess investigation into President Donald Trumps $1bn business losses on Wednesday morning, with one host saying: "It's beyond what most of us could ever achieve." Ainsley Earhardt said: "If anything, you read this and you're like 'wow, it's pretty impressive, all the things that he's done in his life'." On Tuesday, the Times published an in-depth look at 10 years of Donald Trumps tax figures, seen by their reporters. The figures showed that between the years 1985 and 1994, Mr Trump appeared to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer. Fox & Friends is widely considered to be among the most Trump-sympathetic programmes on the right-leaning Fox News. According to White House sources, the president watches the show, which often praises his leadership and condemns criticism of him, on a regular basis. Assessment from reporters who follow both the television show and Mr Trumps tweets and talking points shows that the president regularly mimics arguments presented on the show. Often, such as Wednesday morning, he directly quotes and tags the hosts in tweets. Beyond praising the president for having so much money to lose, the hosts attempted to determine how The New York Times gathered so many tax records, which the president has refused to release. "These tax records, according to The Times, were given to them by somebody who had legal access to them," host Steve Doocy said. "We don't know if that's one of his attorneys or one of his tax guys or if it's somebody in the federal government." "Michael Cohen, maybe?" co-host Brian Kilmeade suggested. For the most part, however, the hosts were simple support of the presidents business losses, which they claimed were above most peoples understanding. Mr Kilmeade in particular chided the medias reaction to the $1bn loss, which was happening as Mr Trump was building a persona as a great businessman, as something negative, as if, if you buy something and it doesnt pan out right away, or ever, youre a loser. He also chimed in, saying it was only significant "if you consider a billion dollars a lot of money." Donald Trump has shown little interest in removing the steel and aluminium tariffs he imposed more than a year ago despite growing evidence Americans are paying a hefty price for these tariffs and increasing pressure from Republicans in Congress to remove them. US consumers and businesses are paying more than $900,000 (690,750) a year for every job saved or created by Mr Trump steel tariffs, according to calculations by experts at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. The cost is more than 13 times the typical salary of a steelworker, according to Labour Department data, and it is similar to other economists' estimates that Mr Trump's tariffs on washing machines are costing consumers $815,000 per job created. "It's very high. It's arresting," said Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute who did the steel tariff cost calculation. "The reason it's so high is that steel is a very capital intensive industry. There are not many workers." Mr Trump has said repeatedly that the metals tariffs are necessary for national security, for good-paying jobs and for leverage in trade negotiations. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty There was hope among Republicans and business leaders that Mr Trump would remove the tariffs - at least on Canada and Mexico - once the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement negotiations were done. But the tariffs remain, a warning sign for Chinese leaders who want Mr Trump to remove his tariffs on their country's products as part of the deal the two sides are currently negotiating. Supporters of Mr Trump's tariffs, such as the Alliance for American Manufacturing, counter that more than 12,700 good-paying jobs have been created or saved at steel and aluminium factories since the president put this policy in place in March 2018. They also point to substantial amounts of investment in US metal mills that should benefit the nation for years to come, including $1bn that was just announced at a US Steel plant outside Pittsburgh. Recommended Trump abruptly renews China tariffs threat ahead of upcoming deal "Congrats to @U_S_Steel for investing $1+ BILLION in America's most INNOVATIVE steel mill. 232 Tariffs make Pennsylvania and USA more prosperous/secure by bringing Steel and Aluminum industries BACK. Tariffs are working. Pittsburgh is again The Steel City. USA economy is BOOMING!" Mr Trump tweeted last week. Many economists and business leaders point out that jobs in steel-using industries outnumber those in steel production by about 80 to 1, according to experts at Harvard University and the University of California, Davis. Mr Trump has claimed other countries are paying the tariff bill, but evidence shows the tariffs are taxes paid by Americans. US companies that buy metals are either absorbing higher costs or passing them along to consumers. General Motors and Ford said Mr Trump's tariffs have cost them a billion dollars each. "The consumer pays for this in the end. They just don't always recognise it," said James Knott Jr, chief executive of Riverdale Mills Corporation in Northbridge, Massachusetts, which makes wire mesh products for everything from fences to commercial fishing nets. "These 232 tariffs protect my foreign competition rather than protecting me." Trump tariffs on new cars would be economically 'disastrous', European Commission warns Raw steel prices surged after Mr Trump put 25 per cent tariffs on imported steel on some countries in March and then expanded the tariffs to most countries in June, including Canada, Mexico and the European Union. The result is that domestic steel prices have been higher than foreign ones, boosting profits for US steel mills but putting US manufacturers that use steel like Riverdale at a disadvantage to European and Chinese competitors. Riverdale is absorbing the tariff costs for now, but Mr Knott Jr said it forced him to cut costs elsewhere. He ended up reducing his 200-person workforce by 50 people. He did it via attrition - simply not filling vacancies after people left - but it is hampering him at a time when he says business should be thriving in a strong economy. Republicans in Congress are growing increasingly vocal in their insistence that Mr Trump remove the steel and aluminium tariffs, at least on Canada and Mexico, which are major feeders of metals to the United States. Some GOP senators are threatening not to approve Mr Trump's USMCA agreement until the tariffs on US neighbours are removed. "If these tariffs aren't lifted, USMCA is dead. There is no appetite in Congress to debate USMCA with these tariffs in place," wrote senator Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, last week in a Wall Street Journal opinion piece. Tom Gibson, president of the American Iron and Steel Institute, said Mr Trump's tariffs are about righting years of foreign nations like China undercutting US steel production. He points out that US steel mills are now running at more than 80 per cent capacity, a level not seen in over a decade and that imports have fallen from 29 per cent a year ago to 20 per cent now. "The steel tariffs implemented by the president last year have enabled steelmakers to begin to recover from the historic import surges that devastated the industry a few years ago," Mr Gibson said. "The tariffs are working, but now is not the time to lift them." But evidence is growing that the metals tariffs are starting to bite. Last year, US manufacturing companies went on a hiring spree, adding the most new employees in more than two decades as the good economy caused demand to rise. But since the start of the year, manufacturing job growth has cooled. From February to April, US manufacturers added 12,000 net new manufacturing jobs, the weakest gains in the sector since before Mr Trump took office. Mr Hufbauer and Euijin Jung of the Peterson Institute calculated that every steel job saved is costing US consumers over $900,000 because US companies have been paying about 10 per cent more for steel since Mr Trump's tariffs went into effect. The total additional cost to the economy is about $11.5bn a year. There is debate among economists about how many jobs have truly been created or saved because of Mr Trump's tariffs, but Mr Hufbauer and Mr Jung decided to take the Alliance for American Manufacturing's figure for 12,700, which works out to over $900,000 a job. AAM said about 9,300 of those jobs are steel alone, which means the cost could be more than $1.2m per steel job. Supporters of tariffs counter that the US Treasury is receiving some revenue from the tariffs and that the longer the tariffs remain in place the more the domestic industry will thrive. The Washington Post Elizabeth Warren has criticised Joe Biden for hosting fancy private fundraising events and courting big donors despite meeting with many of the same top Democratic fundraisers throughout her 2018 re-election campaign. The 2020 hopeful has pointed to Mr Bidens private fundraising events as an apparent difference between her campaign and that of the former vice president, who maintains a frontrunner status in the ever-growing pool of Democratic presidential candidates. Our democracy is not for sale, and neither is my time, Ms Warren wrote to her supporters in an email requesting donations. Other messages have lambasted Mr Biden for hosting fancy private fundraising events where only big donors are invited and noting he attended a swanky private fund-raiser for wealthy donors at the home of the guy who runs Comcasts lobbying shop. While the Massachusetts senator may be avoiding private fundraising events as she attempts to portray herself as a grassroots option to Mr Bidens candidacy, Ms Warren received top-dollar donations from wealthy donors at events benefiting her 2018 re-election campaign. Several of those donors are the same people Ms Warren has singled out Mr Biden for courting just a year later, with one going on-record to describe the senators attacks against her opponent as preposterous. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty I was pleased to support Senator Warren, I think shes a terrific senator, but I think it makes no sense for her to criticise Biden for taking checks at the maximum allowed, Kenneth Jarin, a law professor who hosted one of Mr Bidens recent events, told Philadelphia's The Inquirer. I know that she took lots and lots of $2,700 (2,076) checks raising money for her Senate campaigns. The Inquirer first reported the similarities between Ms Warrens 2018 campaign fundraising efforts and that of Mr Bidens 2020 campaign. The newspaper noted two additional hosts of recent fundraising events for the vice president, former Governor Ed Rendell and attorney Stephen Cozen, had also hosted a similar event for Ms Warren in March 2018. Each host contributed thousands of dollars to Ms Warrens Senate campaign. Mr Jarin said the senator accepted major fundraising dollars at a 2017 event held at the Rittenhouse Hotel by a top political donor, Peter Buttenwieser. Shes also transferred the remaining dollars from her Senate campaign account to that of her presidential bid, adding over $10m (7.7m) to her coffers. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Alan Kessler, an attorney who has attended both politicians fundraising events in the past, told the Inquirer, Anybody thats criticising the Biden-type fund-raiser wouldnt turn down one if they were offered. In response to the newspapers report, Ms Warrens campaign spokesperson Chris Hayden said the senator has decided not to do any closed-door events with wealthy donors because special access for the wealthy and well-connected should not be how we choose the Democratic nominee for president. She believes that this primary is an opportunity to build the kind of grassroots movement that will win the general election and bring real structural change to our government, he added. Kim Kardashian has quietly helped free 17 prisoners over the past three months using a legal team that targets inmates who have already served years of life sentences without parole. The efforts have been made possible following the passage of the First Step Act, which Donald Trump signed into law last year a bill that Kardashian advocated for in the White House. Among those who have been freed due to Karashians efforts include Alice Mare Johnson, a 63-year-old grandmother who had been serving a life in prison for a nonviolent drug offense. Ms Johnson was granted clemency by the president after her case was brought to the attention of White House adviser Jared Kushner. Kardashian, following the White Houses decision on Ms Johnsons case, has continued to advocate for inmates serving similarly harsh sentences, and is now reportedly studying to become a lawyer. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty TMZ, which first reported the issue, says that Kardashian has hired Brittany Barnett, a Dallas-based attorney, to take on the cases of the inmates. MiAngel Cody, of the Decarceration Collective, is also working on the effort. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events In a recent interview with Vogue, Kardashian said that its never one person who gets things done; its always a collective of people, and Ive always known my role, but I just felt like I wanted to be able to fight for people who have paid their dues to society. Donald Trump has lashed out at an obscure Native American rights bill supported by Elizabeth Warren, in an attack that has been denounced as racist and proof that the president is doing a favour for a staffers lobbyist husband. Mr Trumps attack came on Twitter, where he employed similar language to that used earlier by Matt Schlapp, a lobbyist who represents a management firm that owns a casino that would be threatened by the Warren-backed bill. Mr Schlapp also happens to be the husband of Mercedes Schlapp, the White House strategic communications director. Republicans shouldnt vote for HR 312, a special interest casino Bill, backed by Elizabeth (Pocahotas) Warren, Mr Trump wrote, referring to the bill number in the House, and to his racist nickname for the Massachusetts senator and Democratic presidential candidate. It is unfair and doesnt treat Native Americans equally! Mr Schlapp, for his part, had tweeted hours earlier to highlight that the bill would benefit the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe over his client, Twin River Management Group, which owns a casino in nearby Rhode Island that would compete with a planned casino the Mashpee want to build. His tweet also implicitly referenced Ms Warrens claim that she is distantly related to a Native American tribe. Soon the full House will vote to reward [senator] Elizabeth Warren with wait for it an INDIAN casino in Massachusetts, Mr Schlapp wrote. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty Mr Schlapp is a co-founder of Cove Strategies, a lobbying firm that has been paid $30,000 just this year to advocate behalf of Twin River Management Group in Washington and the White House on casinos and gambling issues, including HR 312 specifically. Other lobbying companies hired by Twin River Management Group this year to lobby on those issues include Black Diamond Strategies, which includes among its staff Rick Wiley, the national political director for Mr Trumps 2016 primary campaign. Mr Wiley is not listed on Senate lobbying disclosure forms as working on these issues personally, however. Soon after the presidents tweet, HR 312 was pulled from the House floor, leading to claims that Mr Trump was acting out on behalf of Mr and Ms Schlapp. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Im sure this racist lie has nothing to do with the fact that Matt Schlap Trumps staffers husband is lobbying against the bill, representative Ruben Gallego tweeted. The bill in question would reaffirm the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe reservation as trust land in Massachusetts. The Trump administration took steps last year that damaged the groups ability to move forward with its Taunton casino plans. The tribe, which was first recognised in 2007, needs Congressional approval of its status as a Native American tribe after the Interior Department took efforts to cut its federal tribal status last year. The feud between Donald Trump and House Democrats is escalating, as critics of the president seek a vast trove of information related to the Mueller report, and the White House has signalled it has no plans to help in that endeavour. The latest escalation comes as Democrats have moved forward to find attorney general William Barr in contempt of congress an act that would make Mr Barr only the second sitting top lawman in the US to be hit with the charge for failing to honour a subpoena and hand over the Mueller report and related documents. The White House, meanwhile, has asserted executive privilege over the documents for the first time, increasing the likelihood that the clash between the House and the Trump administration will end up in the courts. Heres what you need to know. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS What do Democrats want? Democrats in Washington have demanded a full account of the Mueller report, including underlying evidence and files that touch on dozens of federal criminal cases stemming from or related to the special counsel investigation. The calls for these materials began almost immediately after Mr Barr first received the Mueller report on 22 March. The demands have only gained momentum in time since as Washington has been divided by the report and the attorney generals representation of the report. How have they tried to get those documents? The House Judiciary Committee has attempted to force the Justice Departments hand by issuing subpoenas, and now are taking further action with a vote to proceed with a contempt resolution against Mr Barr. The measure has passed in the Judiciary Committee, but would still need a full vote in the House a simple majority would do before Mr Barr is actually hit with the charge. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events What has the Trump administration done? As Democrats increased pressure over the past few weeks, the Justice Department and House Judiciary have engaged in negotiations around what documents would be made public, but those talks have appeared to break down. The night before the contempt hearing in the House, Mr Nadler announced that he had received a letter from the Department of Justice indicating that the White House was asserting executive privilege to block their access to the Mueller report and underlying documents. That decision by the White House followed after Mr Barr sent a letter to the president suggesting that he makes a protective assertion of executive privilege, pending a final decision on whether to officially claim executive privilege on the entirety of the documents in question. In that letter, Mr Barr suggested that the Department of Justice was being rushed to hand over the documents, which number in the millions. Assistant attorney general Stephen Boyd said in a letter to Mr Nadler that the Department of Justice was disappointed that the Judiciary Committee would not honour a request for a delay on the vote of contempt over the subpoenas. Mr Boyd argued that the request would force the Justice Department to violate the law, court rules, and court orders, and would harm the independence of the department. What is contempt? Contempt sounds pretty serious, but a House decision to pass such a resolution against Mr Barr would likely be largely symbolic and would amount to a very powerful message to the attorney general. Overall, contempt charges follow after congressional subpoenas are repeatedly denied. The measure, if passed by the full House, would then be handed over to the executive branch (where it is likely that it will not be taken up). The next step would be for Congress to take Mr Barr and the Trump administration to court over the Mueller report, which could then force the courts to decide the matter. What is executive privilege, and what does it cover? The White Houses assertion of executive privilege marks the first time the president has done so, and has been interpreted broadly as an escalation in tensions between House Democrats and the president. The claim is, essentially, that certain materials within the executive branchs possession should be withheld in the public interest, and allows the White House and other members of the executive to resist subpoenas from Congress. The Trump administration in this case has targeted the entire Mueller report and underlying documents, even though the measure is usually only used to target information pertaining specifically to executive branch functions. Donald Trumps family was an influence that frequently needed to be dealt with as top White House officials constructed policy, the presidents former chief of staff has revealed. John Kelly discussed his attempts to create a more orderly system in Mr Trumps turbulent White House in an interview with Bloomberg Television's The David Rubenstein Show released Tuesday, saying he was forced to remove some very disruptive officials to staff a president the way I think a president should be staffed. Without mentioning the presidents daughter or son-in-law by name, Mr Kelly singled out Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner by saying members of Mr Trumps family serving in the White House were an influence that has to be dealt with, before noting he was not referring to the first lady. By no means do I mean Mrs Trump, he said, adding, the first ladys a wonderful person. Discussing the tumultuous turnover rate and top-level departures throughout his tenure as chief of staff, Mr Kelly said he was taken aback by the intense personal ambition some staffers displayed, through the removals ultimately formed a staff united behind the presidents agenda. Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Show all 20 1 /20 Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Donald Trump's Cabinet Donald Trump's Cabinet is one the richest in American history, filled with billionaires, conservatives and several career politicians. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mike Pence US Vice President Mike Pence has defended Donald Trump throughout his presidency while walking a fine line to avoid any public involvement in major scandals. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mike Pompeo Secretary of State Mike Pompeo replaced Donald Trump's previous appointment to the post, Rex Tillerson, and has led talks with North Korea in establishing high-profile summits between the president and Kim Jong Un. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Wilbur Ross Secretary of Commerce Wibur Ross raised controversy when he was accused of falsely claiming to have sold stock in a bank and violated a government ethics agreement. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Lighthizer US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has been a fixture in Donald Trump's ongoing trade spat with China. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet William Barr Attorney General William Barr replaced Jeff Sessions as the nation's top cop in early 2019 and has refused to commit to recusing himself from the Russia probe despite an unsolicited memo he sent to the Justice Department decrying the investigation. EPA Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Rick Perry Energy Secretary Rick Perry has held his post throughout Donald Trump's presidency despite previously undermining the need for the agency he now leads in past public statements. Ken Shipp / United States Department of Energy Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Betsy DeVos Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has also held her post throughout the presidency, despite major backlash to her apparent undermining of the nationwide public school system and advocacy for charter programmes. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Steven Mnuchin Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has faced numerous controversies throughout his tenure as the head of Treasury, including costing taxpayers at least a million dollars in travel expenses. AP Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Wilkie Veterans Affairs secretary Robert Wilkie was appointed after Donald Trump's White House doctor Ronny Jackson withdrew over allegations he provided prescription drugs to patients without prescriptions. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet David Bernhardt Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt took office in January 2019 after the resignation of Ryan Zinke after previously serving as Zinke's deputy. Before taking office Bernhardt worked for many years as a solicitor for the Department of the Interior. Tami Heilemann / United States Department of the Interior Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Elaine Chao Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao has held her post throughout the presidency and has mostly avoided controversy, despite a report claiming her office has been in frequent coordination with her husband's, Mitch McConnell. AFP/Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Kevin McAleenan Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin McAleenan took over from Kirstjen Nielsen after she resigned in April 2019. He previously worked as the executive director of the executive director of the Office of Anti Terrorism in the Customs and Border Protection agency United States Customs and Border Protection Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Ben Carson Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson was appointed shortly after Donald Trump took office and raised controversy over an exorbitant furnishing bill for his office. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Gina Haspel CIA Director Gina Haspel was appointed in 2018 and faced backlash surrounding her oversight of Guantanamo Bay. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Dan Coats Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats could be the next person to leave Donald Trump's administration over his refuting the president's claims surrounding ISIS. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Sonny Perdue Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue has been dogged by ethics questions throughout his tenure and faced controversy when emails showed the agency appeared willing to eagerly work with lobbyists under his leadership. Reuters Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Alex Azar Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar is a former pharmaceutical lobbyist and former drug company executive. Getty Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Mick Mulvaney Acting Chief of Staff and Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney has described himself as one of the most conservative officials in the White House. EPA Trump's inner circle: Meet the members of the US president's cabinet Robert Wilkie Secretary of State for Veterans Affairs Robert Wilkie has spent his career on Capitol Hill serving in various roles in foreign affairs and defence. He holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force Reserve. Gene Russell / United States Department of Veterans Affairs Tensions between Mr Kelly and the presidents family have long been known, with outlets having described numerous clashes between Mr Trumps appointees and family during his stint in the administration. After leaving his post last year, it was recently reported the former White House chief of staff joined a board of directors for Caliburn International, which owns Comprehensive Health Services, a company overseeing some of the nations largest and most notorious detention centres housing migrant children. Mr Kelly faced unending controversy during his time in the West Wing for overseeing the implementation of the presidents zero tolerance policy, which began the systematic separation of migrant families seeking asylum at the US-Mexico border. Recommended John Kelly joins board of company operating child detention centre Nationwide protests and backlash on Capitol Hill as video footage and photo evidence showed awful conditions at detention centres along the border eventually forced the administration to walk back the policy, with Mr Trump signing an executive order to officially end the separation process in June 2018. Jess Morales, chair of the migrants rights group Families Belong Together, lambasted Mr Kellys record in a statement to The Independent after it was revealed he had joined the board of directors at Caliburn. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events John Kelly and the family separation policy he enabled will go down in the history books as a stain on our nations moral character, she said. He shouldnt be able to get a job ever again. If a company sees John Kellys experience terrorising thousands of children and putting babies in cages as a job qualification, it cannot be trusted to care for children. Donald Trumps administration has threatened to use his executive privilege to block Democrats attempts to access the full, unredacted Mueller report. If opposition politicians pushed ahead with a planned vote to hold William Barr in contempt of Congress, the Justice Department (DoJ) warned, the attorney general would be "compelled to request that the president invoke executive privilege with respect to the materials" Democrats want to see. Mr Barr has been resisting a subpoena issued by the Democrats for the full document. He released a redacted version to the public last month, and his department has rejected demands for an unredacted copy while allowing a handful of politicians to view a version of Robert Muellers report with fewer elements removed. The DoJ had been locked in negotiations with Democratic members of the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday before handing down the executive privilege ultimatum in a letter from Mr Barrs deputy, Stephen Boyd. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty Committee chairman Jerry Nadler dismissed the threat, saying in a statement that this is, of course, not how executive privilege works. The White House waived these privileges long ago, and the department seemed open to sharing these materials with us earlier today. The departments legal arguments are without credibility, merit, or legal or factual basis, he added. The DoJ said on Monday that it had taken extraordinary steps to accommodate the House Judiciary Committees requests for information regarding Mr Muellers report, but that Mr Nadler had not reciprocated. A spokeswoman noted that Democrats had refused to read the version with fewer redactions provided to Congress. It was not immediately clear how a claim of executive privilege would work in relation to the special counsels probe. The power allows a president to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. The DoJs threat came only hours after the White House moved to prevent Donald McGahn, a central witness for Mr Mueller and the administrations former top lawyer, from giving certain documents to congressional investigators because Mr Trump may invoke privilege over them, the New York Times reported. The contempt vote was due to take place on Wednesday. Mr Nadler also said he expected the committee would hold Mr McGahn in contempt if he did not appear before it, unless the White House secures a court order directing otherwise. Additional reporting by AP Close Republican 2020 candidate Bill Weld believes Donald Trump is impeachable Donald Trump lost $1.17bn (897m) from real estate ventures between 1985 and 1994 and paid no income tax for eight years, according to The New York Times, reporting after the newspaper got hold of copies of his tax returns for the period. The president predictably branded the story, A highly inaccurate Fake News hit job!, the news coming at a time when his treasury secretary Steve Mnuchin was already under fire for refusing to release his bosss tax returns for 2013 to 2018, setting up what promises to be a protracted legal battle with Democrats. This latest act of stonewalling from the White House comes as the House Judiciary Committee moved to hold attorney general William Barr in contempt over the Mueller report. The vote capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and the president, who for the first time invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the full report. Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler of New York declared the action by Mr Trumps Justice Department a clear new sign of the presidents blanket defiance of Congress constitutional rights to conduct oversight. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS We did not relish doing this, but we have no choice, Nadler said after the vote. The White Houses blockade, he said, is an attack on the ability of the American people to know what the executive branch is doing. He said, This cannot be. Recommended House votes to hold William Barr in contempt over Mueller subpoena But Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said it was disappointing that members of Congress have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Additional reporting by AP. Please allow a moment for the live blog to load Donald Trump has responded angrily to reports his businesses recorded more than $1bn in losses, explaining they did so to avoid paying tax. In early morning tweets, the US president appeared to confirm much of what was detailed in an explosive report about his financial losses between 1985 and 1994, and claimed avoiding taxes among real estate developers was then considered "sport". "Real estate developers in the 1980s & 1990s, more than 30 years ago, were entitled to massive write offs and depreciation which would, if one was actively building, show losses and tax losses in almost all cases," Mr Trump tweeted. "Much was non monetary. Sometimes considered 'tax shelter,' you would get it by building, or even buying. You always wanted to show losses for tax purposes....almost all real estate developers did - and often re-negotiate with banks, it was sport. "Additionally, the very old information put out is a highly inaccurate Fake News hit job!" Mr Trump's outburst followed a New York Times story which detailed how tax information obtained by the newspaper showed the self-proclaimed billionaire paid no income tax for eight out of 10 years detailed in the documents. The newspaper said Mr Trump reported business losses of $46.1m (35.4m) in 1985, and a total of $1.17bn (900m) in losses for the 10-year period. The records - printouts from Mr Trump's Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax receipts - represent the most detailed look into the president's personal taxes yet, after years in which Mr Trump had sought to keep the documents private. Republican 2020 candidate Bill Weld believes Donald Trump is impeachable According to the report, Mr Trump's losses mostly came from his business holdings in casinos, hotels, and retail apartment space in his buildings. It alleges he lost more money than almost any other American individual taxpayer during that time, according to a comparison of his taxes to an annual comparison of high income earners compiled by the IRS. Mr Trump's defence of his financial behaviour cited "depreciation", which is a special benefit in the US tax code that lets owners of commercial real estate take a deduction from taxable income for a building's natural loss in value. As reported by Forbes, although the term implies loss, in real estate investing it is a positive with regards to income. Even though the building itself - including the toilets, sinks, rooves etc - depreciates in value, the land does not depreciate. That means the owner of the asset can take a deduction for the building's depreciation, while simultaneously seeing the value of their real estate investment increase. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty The documents obtained by the NYT do not cover the years of interest to congressional Democrats, who are set to engage in a legal battle with the Trump administration after the Treasury refused to release the president's tax returns. However, they do provide valuable insight into Mr Trump's business history, and further damage his long-cultivated image as a self-made billionaire with a history of business success. A lawyer for the president said the tax information was "demonstrably false", and reporting "about the president's tax returns and business from 30 years ago are highly inaccurate". He did not say what specifically was wrong. The House Ways and Means Committee has asked the IRS to provide Mr Trump's personal and business returns for 2013 through to 2018. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who oversees the IRS, refused to do so on Monday, saying the panel's request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose". His move, which had been expected, is likely to set a legal battle into motion. The chief options available to Democrats are to subpoena the IRS for the returns or to file a lawsuit. Mr Trump is the first president since Watergate to decline to make his tax returns public. Additional reporting by PA Donald Trump's tax returns show that he lost so much money in the mid-1980s to 1990s that he paid no income tax for eight out of 10 years during that period, according to a new report. The income tax records were obtained by The New York Times, and represent the most detailed look into the president's personal taxes yet, after years in which Mr Trump had sought to keep the documents private. Between 1985 and 1994, the documents show, Mr Trump lost tens of millions of dollars a year, with total losses adding up to $1.17bn for the decade. According to The New York Times report on the taxes, Mr Trump's losses mostly came from his business holdings in casinos, hotels, and retail apartment space in his buildings. And, the paper reports, the sheer amount of losses during that time show that he lost more money than almost any other American taxpayer during that time, according to a comparison of his taxes to an annual comparison of high income earners compiled by the Internal Revenue Service. The freshly released documents do not cover the years of interest to Congressional Democrats who have demanded the Treasury Department release the president's returns, leading to a legal battle but they do provide valuable insight into Mr Trump's history, and of the dire straights he found himself roughly 30 years ago. The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Show all 25 1 /25 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Bernie Sanders The Vermont senator has launched a second bid for president after losing out to Hilary Clinton in the 2016 Democratic primaries. He is running on a similar platform of democratic socialist reform Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Joe Biden The former vice president recently faced scrutiny for inappropriate touching of women, but was thought to deal with the criticism well and has since maintained a front runner status in national polling EPA The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Elizabeth Warren The Massachusetts senator is a progressive Democrat, and a major supporter of regulating Wall Street Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Amy Klobuchar Klobuchar is a Minnesota senator who earned praise for her contribution to the Brett Kavanaugh hearings Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Michael Bloomberg Michael Bloomberg, a late addition to the 2020 race, announced his candidacy after months of speculation in November. He has launched a massive ad-buying campaign and issued an apology for the controversial "stop and frisk" programme that adversely impacted minority communities in New York City when he was mayor Getty Images The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 Tulsi Gabbard The Hawaii congresswoman announced her candidacy in January, but has faced tough questions on her past comments on LGBT+ rights and her stance on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Pete Buttigieg The centrist Indiana mayor and war veteran would be the first openly LGBT+ president in American history Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Deval Patrick The former Massachusetts governor launched a late 2020 candidacy and received very little reception. With just a few short months until the first voters flock to the polls, the former governor is running as a centrist and believes he can unite the party's various voting blocs AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Beto O'Rourke The former Texas congressman formally launched his bid for the presidency in March. He ran on a progressive platform, stating that the US is driven by "gross differences in opportunity and outcome" AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kamala Harris The former California attorney general was introduced to the national stage during Jeff Sessions testimony. She has endorsed Medicare-for-all and proposed a major tax-credit for the middle class AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Bill De Blasio The New York mayor announced his bid on 16 May 2019. He emerged in 2013 as a leading voice in the left wing of his party but struggled to build a national profile and has suffered a number of political setbacks in his time as mayor AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Steve Bullock The Montana governor announced his bid on 14 May. He stated "We need to defeat Donald Trump in 2020 and defeat the corrupt system that lets campaign money drown out the people's voice, so we can finally make good on the promise of a fair shot for everyone." He also highlighted the fact that he won the governor's seat in a red [Republican] state Reuters The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Cory Booker The New Jersey Senator has focused on restoring kindness and civility in American politics throughout his campaign, though he has failed to secure the same level of support and fundraising as several other senators running for the White House in 2020 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Wayne Messam Mayor of the city of Miramar in the Miami metropolitan area, Wayne Messam said he intended to run on a progressive platform against the "broken" federal government. He favours gun regulations and was a signatory to a letter from some 400 mayors condemning President Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord Vice News The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Kirsten Gillibrand The New York Senator formally announced her presidential bid in January, saying that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Delaney The Maryland congressman was the first to launch his bid for presidency, making the announcement in 2017 AP The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Andrew Yang The entrepreneur announced his presidential candidacy by pledging that he would introduce a universal basic income of $1,000 a month to every American over the age of 18 Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Julian Castro The former San Antonio mayor announced his candidacy in January and said that his running has a special meaning for the Latino community in the US Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Marianne Williamson The author and spiritual adviser has announced her intention to run for president. She had previously run for congress as an independent in 2014 but was unsuccessful Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Eric Swalwell One of the younger candidates, Swalwell has served on multiple committees in the House of Representatives. He intended to make gun control central to his campaign but dropped out after his team said it was clear there was no path to victory Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Seth Moulton A Massachusetts congressman, Moulton is a former US soldier who is best known for trying to stop Nancy Pelosi from becoming speaker of the house. He dropped out of the race after not polling well in key states Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Jay Inslee Inslee has been governor of Washington since 2013. His bid was centred around climate change AFP/Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: John Hickenlooper The former governor of Colorado aimed to sell himself as an effective leader who was open to compromise, but failed to make a splash on the national stage Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tim Ryan Ohio representative Tim Ryan ran on a campaign that hinged on his working class roots, though his messaging did not appear to resonate with voters Getty The Democrat challengers to Trump in 2020 DROPPED OUT: Tom Steyer Democratic presidential hopeful billionaire and philanthropist Tom Steyer is a longtime Democratic donor AFP/Getty A lawyer for the president has said that the tax information provided to The New York Times was "demonstrably false", and that statements from the major American newspaper "about the president's tax returns and business from 30 years ago are highly inaccurate," but did not say what specifically was wrong. Mr Trump has built his public persona and business by licensing his name, and making that brand synonymous with the luxury lifestyle. In the 2000s, the president then became a television celebrity, and further catapulted that image into American living rooms. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Democrats are currently in a battle with the White House to gain access to the past six years of Mr Trump's tax returns, and whether Mr Trump had recent business dealings that include funding sources from foreign sources who would like to influence the president's decision making process. Taken together, the newly released documents show that the president was far from the business genius he has publicly portrayed himself to be during that time, and that his approach to business was in stark contrast to that of his father, Fred Trump's. While the senior Trump built a business empire around stable apartment rental buildings in Brooklyn and Queens, the president's business approach was much more erratic, shifting between different ideas as many of those ventures proved unwise. And, according to The Times, the president's dramatic losses may have been stymied slightly by Mr Trump's questionable approach to the stock market, when he was able to make millions by publicly suggesting that he was about to take over companies only to not follow through with that plan. The House Judiciary Committee has voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for ignoring a subpoena to provide the Special Counsels full report on Russian election interference and all of its underlying evidence. Mr Barr defied the subpoena after the Department of Justice claimed there was no basis for the request and threatened to urge Donald Trump to invoke executive privilege over the report in a scathing letter sent to Congress. Voting to hold the attorney general in contempt lays the foundation for Congress to file a civil lawsuit, as well as a criminal referral to be sent to the US attorneys office in Washington. However, the courts could simply order Congress and the Justice Department to solve the inter-branch dispute amongst themselves, constitutional law experts have told The Independent. Wednesday marks the first time the Democratic-led House of Representatives has held a vote on holding a member of the presidents administration in contempt of Congress. A later vote on whether to hold the attorney general in contempt was expected after a markup vote passed on party lines shortly after 10:00am local time. Moments after the House voted to hold Mr Barr in contempt, the Justice Department sent a letter to House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler saying the president has asserted executive privilege over the entirety of the subpoenaed materials. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS The White House also immediately tweeted the following statement after Wednesdays vote: The American people see through Chairman Nadlers desperate ploy to distract from the Presidents historically successful agenda and our booming economy. Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders then described Mr Nadler holding the vote as a "blatant abuse of power." "Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney General's request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege," Ms Sanders said Wednesday. Recommended Trump says Mueller should not testify as he agrees to speak with House Mr Nadler said Wednesday his committee was still open to reasonable offers from the Justice Department surrounding its compliance with the subpoenas despite the vote, adding, "This is not a step we take lightly." Describing Mr Trump's attempts to invoke executive privilege over the report, the chairman said the "decision represents a clear escalation in the Trump administration's blanket defiance of Congress' constitutionally mandated duties." Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events The vote arrived after more than 700 former federal prosecutors signed a public letter saying Mr Trump would face criminal charges over obstruction of justice for the evidence outlined in the special counsels report, were he not the president. Current Justice Department guidelines state a sitting president cannot face criminal charges. Mr Barr sought to clear Mr Trump of any wrongdoing after the special counsel concluded its report, immediately releasing a four-page summary seemingly claiming the president was not involved in any misconduct. That was shortly disproved after the Justice Department released a redacted version of the report that outlined at least 10 possible cases of obstruction of justice on the part of the president. A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row after being accused of blasphemy has left the country to join her family in Canada, her lawyer and officials said. It marks the conclusion of an extraordinary ordeal for mother-of-five Asia Bibi, who was first convicted in 2010 after neighbours accused her of insulting the Prophet Muhammad during an argument. Ms Bibi was acquitted by the Supreme Court last year and in January the court rejected petitions to review the decision. With tensions high over the case, she has been living in government safe houses in Pakistan since her acquittal. I have inquired within available channels, and according to them she has left for Canada, Ms Bibis lawyer, Saif ul-Malook, told Reuters. It has previously been reported that Ms Bibis two daughters have been granted asylum in Canada, and prime minister Justin Trudeau confirmed he was in talks with Pakistan to offer sanctuary to Ms Bibi and her husband. Asia Bibi has left the country, a Pakistani Foreign Office source told news outlets, including IndependentUrdu and Dawn, one of the countrys leading English-language newspapers. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will. Supporters of far-right Islamist party TLP party protest at the acquittal of Asia Bibi (EPA) CNN reported on Wednesday that Ms Bibi had left Pakistan more than 24 hours earlier. And a close friend told the Associated Press that Ms Bibi and her husband Ashiq Masih had spent the last few weeks getting their documents in order. The friend said Ms Bibi was longing to see her daughters, with whom she talked almost daily from her secure location that is protected by Pakistani security forces. The case has drawn attention to Pakistans controversial laws on blasphemy, an offence which carries an automatic death sentence and even just suspicions of which can incite lynch mobs to form. Ms Bibi and her family have faced constant threats from hardline Islamists who see her case as totemic of the loosening of such laws. In November, the Dutch embassy in Pakistan was forced to recall staff and close some services after it was targeted following the granting of asylum in the Netherlands to Ms Bibis lawyer. In October 2018, after the Supreme Court quashed Ms Bibis blasphemy conviction citing lack of evidence, followers of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) movement rioted across several major cities, burning cars and damaging property. The clashes forced prime minister Imran Khan to promise Ms Bibi would not be allowed to leave Pakistan until the final petition against her was heard by the Supreme Court. That was dismissed in January, with judges saying the petitioners were unable to point out a single error in the [October] judgment. The Supreme Court judges were also highly critical of the original conviction of Ms Bibi, saying it boiled down to lies told by the womans Muslim neighbours following a personal spat. We have to look at the value of the statements by witnesses, said chief justice Asif Saeed Khan Khosa. How can we hang someone on a false witness statement? While Canadas has been the most outspoken government in offering asylum to Ms Bibi, other countries including Italy and the UK have been involved in talks to secure her safe passage out of Pakistan. Wilson Chowdhry, of the British Pakistani Christian Association, said a British diplomat had first informed him of the latest development with a text simply stating: Asia is out. Mr Chowdhry said he had been in regular contact both with the family and with a host of diplomats, and that it had been an international effort to have Ms Bibi freed. Jeremy Hunt, the UK foreign secretary, said Ms Bibis departure from Pakistan was fantastic news. He said he was about to meet [Archbishop of Canterbury] Justin Welby and [US secretary of state] Mike Pompeo to talk about persecution of Christians around the world. He added that Ms Bibis case shows that with concerted effort, the right thing can happen. Additional reporting by agencies A methamphetamine addict has had holes drilled into his skull and electrodes inserted into the brain in the worlds first clinical trial to treat them with deep brain stimulation (DBS). A pacemaker-type device was placed deep inside his brain by scientists at Shanghais Ruijin Hospital in China, to electrically stimulate targeted areas with the flip of a switch. The experimental treatment has previously been used for movement disorders like Parkinsons disease. The drill was like bzzzzzzz, said the patient named Yan, the very first meth addict to undergo the treatment. The moment of drilling is the most terrible. More than six months after the surgery, he said he was off drugs and had put on 20 pounds. The machine in his brain was magical, he said, adding: It controls your happiness, anger, grief and joy. Science news in pictures Show all 20 1 /20 Science news in pictures Science news in pictures Pluto has 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen Pluto has a 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen that is doing strange things to its surface, Nasa has found. The mysterious core seems to be the cause of features on its surface that have fascinated scientists since they were spotted by Nasa's New Horizons mission. "Before New Horizons, everyone thought Pluto was going to be a netball - completely flat, almost no diversity," said Tanguy Bertrand, an astrophysicist and planetary scientist at NASA's Ames Research Center and the lead author on the new study. "But it's completely different. It has a lot of different landscapes and we are trying to understand what's going on there." Getty Science news in pictures Over 400 species discovered this year by Natural History Museum The ancient invertabrate worm-like species rhenopyrgus viviani (pictured) is one of over 400 species previously unknown to science that were discovered by experts at the Natural History Museum this year PA Science news in pictures Jackdaws can identify 'dangerous' humans Jackdaws can identify dangerous humans from listening to each others warning calls, scientists say. The highly social birds will also remember that person if they come near their nests again, according to researchers from the University of Exeter. In the study, a person unknown to the wild jackdaws approached their nest. At the same time scientists played a recording of a warning call (threatening) or contact calls (non-threatening). The next time jackdaws saw this same person, the birds that had previously heard the warning call were defensive and returned to their nests more than twice as quickly on average. Getty Science news in pictures Turtle embryos influence sex by shaking The sex of the turtle is determined by the temperatures at which they are incubated. Warm temperatures favour females. But by wiggling around the egg, embryos can find the Goldilocks Zone which means they are able to shield themselves against extreme thermal conditions and produce a balanced sex ratio, according to the new study published in Current Biology journal Ye et al/Current Biology Science news in pictures Elephant poaching rates drop in Africa African elephant poaching rates have dropped by 60 per cent in six years, an international study has found. It is thought the decline could be associated with the ivory trade ban introduced in China in 2017. Reuters Science news in pictures Ancient four-legged whale discovered in Peru Scientists have identified a four-legged creature with webbed feet to be an ancestor of the whale. Fossils unearthed in Peru have led scientists to conclude that the enormous creatures that traverse the planets oceans today are descended from small hoofed ancestors that lived in south Asia 50 million years ago A. Gennari Science news in pictures Animal with transient anus discovered A scientist has stumbled upon a creature with a transient anus that appears only when it is needed, before vanishing completely. Dr Sidney Tamm of the Marine Biological Laboratory could not initially find any trace of an anus on the species. However, as the animal gets full, a pore opens up to dispose of waste Steven G Johnson Science news in pictures Giant bee spotted Feared extinct, the Wallace's Giant bee has been spotted for the first time in nearly 40 years. An international team of conservationists spotted the bee, that is four times the size of a typical honeybee, on an expedition to a group of Indonesian Islands Clay Bolt Science news in pictures New mammal species found inside crocodile Fossilised bones digested by crocodiles have revealed the existence of three new mammal species that roamed the Cayman Islands 300 years ago. The bones belonged to two large rodent species and a small shrew-like animal New Mexico Museum of Natural History Science news in pictures Fabric that changes according to temperature created Scientists at the University of Maryland have created a fabric that adapts to heat, expanding to allow more heat to escape the body when warm and compacting to retain more heat when cold Faye Levine, University of Maryland Science news in pictures Baby mice tears could be used in pest control A study from the University of Tokyo has found that the tears of baby mice cause female mice to be less interested in the sexual advances of males Getty Science news in pictures Final warning to limit "climate catastrophe" The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has issued a report which projects the impact of a rise in global temperatures of 1.5 degrees Celsius and warns against a higher increase Getty Science news in pictures Nobel prize for evolution chemists The nobel prize for chemistry has been awarded to three chemists working with evolution. Frances Smith is being awarded the prize for her work on directing the evolution of enzymes, while Gregory Winter and George Smith take the prize for their work on phage display of peptides and antibodies Getty/AFP Science news in pictures Nobel prize for laser physicists The nobel prize for physics has been awarded to three physicists working with lasers. Arthur Ashkin (L) was awarded for his "optical tweezers" which use lasers to grab particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells. Donna Strickland and Gerard Mourou were jointly awarded the prize for developing chirped-pulse amplification of lasers Reuters/AP Science news in pictures Discovery of a new species of dinosaur The Ledumahadi Mafube roamed around 200 million years ago in what is now South Africa. Recently discovered by a team of international scientists, it was the largest land animal of its time, weighing 12 tons and standing at 13 feet. In Sesotho, the South African language of the region in which the dinosaur was discovered, its name means "a giant thunderclap at dawn" Viktor Radermacher / SWNS Science news in pictures Birth of a planet Scientists have witnessed the birth of a planet for the first time ever. This spectacular image from the SPHERE instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope is the first clear image of a planet caught in the very act of formation around the dwarf star PDS 70. The planet stands clearly out, visible as a bright point to the right of the center of the image, which is blacked out by the coronagraph mask used to block the blinding light of the central star. ESO/A. Muller et al Science news in pictures New human organ discovered that was previously missed by scientists Layers long thought to be dense, connective tissue are actually a series of fluid-filled compartments researchers have termed the interstitium. These compartments are found beneath the skin, as well as lining the gut, lungs, blood vessels and muscles, and join together to form a network supported by a mesh of strong, flexible proteins Getty Science news in pictures Previously unknown society lived in Amazon rainforest before Europeans arrived, say archaeologists Working in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, a team led by archaeologists at the University of Exeter unearthed hundreds of villages hidden in the depths of the rainforest. These excavations included evidence of fortifications and mysterious earthworks called geoglyphs Jose Iriarte Science news in pictures One in 10 people have traces of cocaine or heroin on fingerprints, study finds More than one in 10 people were found to have traces of class A drugs on their fingers by scientists developing a new fingerprint-based drug test. Using sensitive analysis of the chemical composition of sweat, researchers were able to tell the difference between those who had been directly exposed to heroin and cocaine, and those who had encountered it indirectly. Getty Science news in pictures Nasa releases stunning images of Jupiter's great red spot The storm bigger than the Earth, has been swhirling for 350 years. The image's colours have been enhanced after it was sent back to Earth. Pictures by: Tom Momary Western attempts to push forward with DPS for drug addiction have floundered due to ethical and scientific questions, but China has emerged as a hub for the research. Globally, there are eight registered DBS clinical trials for drug addiction, according to a US National Institutes of Health database. Six are in China. For many other psychiatric disorders, for example, anorexia schizophrenia, OCD, there's no way to use the animal to be like a model, said Dr Sun Bomin, director of the functional neurosurgery center at Ruijin Hospital. For these kinds of special psychiatric disorders we have to use human patients. Brain scan of a methamphetamine user with the path of implanted electrodes (AP) Some believe such human experiments for drug addiction should not be allowed. Critics argue that they will not address the complex biological, social and psychological factors that drive addiction. Scientists dont fully understand how DBS works and there is still debate about where electrodes should be placed to treat addiction. It would be fantastic if there were something where we could flip a switch, but its probably fanciful at this stage, said Adrian Carter, who heads the neuroscience and society group at Monash University in Melbourne. Theres a lot of risks that go with promoting that idea. But the US opioid epidemic may be changing attitudes to risks among doctors and regulators, particularly in the US. More than 500,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in the decade ending in 2017, adding urgency to the search for new, more effective treatments. US doctors accused of trading opioid prescriptions for sex and money Now, the experimental surgery Yan underwent is coming to America. In February, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sanctioned a clinical trial in West Virginia of DBS for opioid addiction. The study lead, Dr Ali Rezai, director of the West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, hopes to launch the trial in June. People are dying, said Dr Rezai said. Their lives are devastated. It's a brain issue. We need to explore all options. Additional reporting by Associated Press Museum officials at Auschwitz have condemned an online vendor for selling disturbing miniskirts and pillows with photos of the former Nazi concentration camp pasted across them. The skirt was being sold for 30 on Red Bubble, an American online marketplace for independent designers. It featured a black and white photo of several chimneys. The 34 cushions were decorated with a photo of the train tracks on which people were transported to the site. A 12 tote bag with an image of Auschwitzs electric fence and the words Attention! High voltage! Risk of death! written across it in German was also listed for sale. A statement issued by officials at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum criticised the website. Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Show all 20 1 /20 Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau The main gate entering the Nazi Auschwitz death camp Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau A warning sign is seen in front of a watch tower of the former Auschwitz concentration camp held by the Nazis in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Visitors walk between barbed wire fences at the Auschwitz Nazi death camp in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Guard towers and barbed wire fences stand at the former Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp on the night prior to commemoration events marking the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the camp on 26 January 2015 in Oswiecim, Poland Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Holocaust survivor Mordechai Ronen (C) from the US is comforted by his son as he is overcome by emotion standing next to President of the World Jewish Congress Ronald Lauder (2nd R) as he arrives at the former Auschwitz concentration camp in Oswiecim on 26 January 2015 Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Auschwitz and Belsen concentration camp survivor Eva Behar shows her number tattoo in her home in London Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau A wall with historic photos is pictured at the memorial site of the former Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in Oswiecim, Poland Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau A general view of the former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau The 'wall of death' at the former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau General view of wooden bunks inside a destroyed barracks at the former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz-Birkenau near Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau View of the barracks of the former Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau View of the barracks of the former Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Empty Zyklon B canisters are displayed at the former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Prosthetic limbs confiscated from Auschwitz prisoners lie in an exhibtion display at the former Auschwitz I concentration camp, which today is a museum, in Oswiecim, Poland Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Eyeglasses confiscated from Auschwitz prisoners lie in an exhibtion display at the former Auschwitz I concentration camp, which today is a museum, in Oswiecim, Poland Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Children's shoes confiscated from Auschwitz prisoners lie in an exhibtion display at the former Auschwitz I concentration camp, which today is a museum, in Oswiecim, Poland Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Suitcases confiscated from Auschwitz prisoners Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Enamel bowls used by Auschwitz prisoners Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau Visitor are seen walking behind barbed-wire fences at the memorial site of the former Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in Oswiecim Holocaust Memorial Day 2015: Haunting images of Auschwitz Auschwitz-Birkenau A cargo wagon is parked at the former German Nazi concentration and extermination camp Auschwitz-Birkenau near Oswiecim Do you really think that selling such products as pillows, mini skirts or tote bags with the images of Auschwitz a place of enormous human tragedy where over 1.1 million people were murdered is acceptable? the statement said. This is rather disturbing and disrespectful. From 1940 until the camp was closed in 1945, more than a million Jews, Poles, Gypsies, Russians and gay people were killed in Auschwitz-Birkenau, which was operated by Nazi Germany in occupied Poland. Recommended Auschwitz visitors told to stop posing for disrespectful photos Red Bubble responded on Twitter by admitting the items were not acceptable. The online retailer said they would take immediate action to remove them from sale. Earlier in the year, tourists were criticised by officials at Auschwitz for posing for disrespectful photos at the former death camp. In a tweet in March, museum officials demanded that visitors to the grounds of the museum behave with due solemnity and respect. An international row has erupted after a monument to a Lithuanian war hero alleged to have collaborated with the Nazis was erected in Chicago. The memorial to Adolfas Ramanauskas, who led anti-Soviet resistance during World War Two, was installed in the Illinois city last week in a ceremony attended by Lithuanias foreign minister. It has has been criticised as "offensive" by Russia and a US-based Jewish human rights organisation, the Simon Wiesenthal Centre, which researches the Holocaust and antisemitism. The centre said Ramanauskas led a vigilante gang that persecuted Jews after the Nazis invaded Lithuania in 1941. Russias America embassy accused Lithuania of glorifying Nazi collaborators and Holocaust henchmen, portraying torturers as victims. It called the unveiling of the monument especially cynical, since it almost coincided with the Holocaust Remembrance Day. Remembering the Holocaust Show all 16 1 /16 Remembering the Holocaust Remembering the Holocaust 119165.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119169.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119229.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119167.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119162.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119166.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119163.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119224.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119168.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119228.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119152.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119226.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119150.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119151.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119147.bin Hannah Bills Remembering the Holocaust 119231.bin Hannah Bills The Lithuanian foreign ministry responded furiously, tweeting the embassy to say: You will not drag us down to your level. The ministry on Tuesday summoned a Russian diplomat to Vilnius to protest false statements about the "anti-Soviet guerrilla hero". It is most inappropriate for Russia to accuse him of collaboration with the Nazis or of participation in the Holocaust," it said in a statement. "His impeccable reputation has been confirmed by numerous independent experts researching the historical events and archival documents of that time. Ramanauskas known as Vanagas, or hawk was working as a teacher when the Soviet Union recaptured Lithuania from Nazi Germany in 1944. He joined the anti-Soviet resistance and rose from platoon commander to be chairman of the Lithuanian Freedom Fighters. Adolfas Ramanauskas led the Lithuanian anti-Soviet resistance movement, but is said to have persecuted Jews But the Simon Wiesenthal Centre said Ramanauskas led a gang of vigilantes who persecuted the Jewish community of Druskininkiai in the weeks after the Nazis captured Lithuania from the Soviets in 1941. Ramanauskas had written about these activities in his memoirs, researchers added. Though there is no proof that he himself directly murdered anyone, it is the centres position that his leadership during this period of persecution should automatically disqualify him from being declared a national hero, the centre said. It described the Chicago monument as morally untenable and offensive to the memory of the Holocaust victims in Lithuania. Recommended How the Holocaust is being reimagined through Instagram for the youth There were an estimated 210,000 Jews living in Lithuania when the Nazis invaded the country. The vast majority of them were murdered within months. In 2017, the Simon Wiesenthal Centres chief Nazi-hunter and Holocaust historian, Efraim Zuroff, met with Lithuanian MPs in a bid to convince them not to honour Ramanauskas. But the Lithuanian government insists the freedom fighter ran a property protection unit that merely guarded homes and shops following the Nazi invasion and did not target Jews. Ramanauskas was captured by the Soviets in 1957 and executed. He was awarded posthumous military honours following Lithuanian independence in 1990. Last year, he was given a state funeral after his remains were discovered in Vilnius. A pigeon in Germany has been flashed by a speed camera after it was caught flying faster than the legal limit for the road. The criminally rapid avian was snapped flapping along a residential street in Bocholt, western Germany, when it was clocked at 45kmh (28mph) in a 30kmh zone. A mobile camera unit was automatically triggered by the bird as it flew past. Representatives from the town published the evidence last week a photograph unmistakably that of a pigeon mid-flight, and in which it is apparently swooping down the wrong side of the road. The image has delighted many people and has already been widely shared. The UK's top birds 2018 Show all 10 1 /10 The UK's top birds 2018 The UK's top birds 2018 10. Chaffinch Down one place on last year. Birdwatch has released this year's rankings for the most frequently spotted birds in the UK. Results were collected from 420,489 British birdspotters Getty The UK's top birds 2018 9. Long-tailed tit Up one place on last year Getty The UK's top birds 2018 8. Robin Redbreast Down one place on last year Getty The UK's top birds 2018 7. Great Tit Up one place on last year Getty The UK's top birds 2018 6. Goldfinch In the same place as last year Pierre Dalous The UK's top birds 2018 5. Woodpigeon In the same place as last year Getty The UK's top birds 2018 4. Blackbird Down one place on last year Getty The UK's top birds 2018 3. Blue tit Up one place on last year Getty The UK's top birds 2018 2. Starling In the same place as last year Getty The UK's top birds 2018 1. House sparrow In the same place as last year Getty If it had not been a pigeon, but a car full of people, the driver would have been served a 25 (21) penalty for speeding. The incident apparently took place in February this year, but it appears to have taken some months for the picture to be fully assessed and then released. On the towns Facebook page the authorities stated that even with the speed limit margin of 3kmh allowed in legal cases, the pigeon would have no chance of getting off, as the animal was 12 kmh over the limit. The flight path of the bird indicated it was on a collision course with vehicles and pedestrians. However, the city administration does not want to launch a survey of possible witnesses, the statement said. Pigeons can in fact fly at far greater speeds than this individual, who was probably coasting along. According to the UKs Pigeon Control Resource Centre, the birds can fly at average speeds of up to 77.6mph and have been clocked at a meteoric 92.5mph. They can manage astonishing distances of between 600 and 700 miles in a single day, with the longest recorded flight in the 19th century apparently taking 55 days, during a 7,000-mile journey between locations in Africa and England, and have the ability to reach altitudes of over 6,000ft. More than 180 people have been killed and over 150,000 have fled their homes in Syrias Idlib province in a devastating bombing campaign by the Syrian regime and its allies over the last week. Foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt and French president Emmanuel Macron condemned the strikes over the demilitarised zone, saying they have hit schools, hospitals and first responders. Mr Hunt also noted that it marked the first use of deadly barrel bombs since the signing of a truce in September. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) told The Independent the deadly flare-up had killed 188 people since 30 April, including 88 civilians. Among the dead are a dozen children. Civilians on the ground said they were running out of food and were left hiding in farms in the open. Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Show all 14 1 /14 Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Trucks full of women and children arrive from the last Isis-held areas in Deir ez-Zor, Syria Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Zikia Ibrahim, 28, with her two-year-old son and 8-month-old daughter, after fleeing the Isis caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Men who fled the last Isis-held area of Syria line up to be questioned by American and Kurdish intelligence officials Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate A young girl pulls her belongings after arriving Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate An SDF fighter hands out bread to women and children after they arrive Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Sita Ghazzar, 70, after fleeing from the last Isis-held territory in Syria Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate A family from Russia who recently fled the last Isis-held area of Syria Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent Syria at war: Fleeing the caliphate Richard Hall/The Independent I am deeply concerned by the escalation in military action by Russia and the Syrian regime in Idlib, Mr Hunt said on Tuesday. This has included horrifying reports of attacks on schools, hospitals and first responders. The latest offensive a flagrant violation of the ceasefire agreement that Russia itself agreed with Turkey is only compounding what was already a dire humanitarian situation in Idlib. He threatened a swift and appropriate response if Russia or Turkey used illegal chemical weapons. Mr Macron echoed his words, calling the rising violence in Idlib extremely alarming. Airstrikes by the regime and its allies have killed many civilians over the past few days Syrias humanitarian situation is critical, and no military option is acceptable, he added. A September ceasefire deal between Russia and rebel backer Turkey was supposed to prevent a massive regime offensive in the region, which is home to some 3 million people. Under the terms of the agreement, hardliners and jihadists were to withdraw from a planned buffer zone, allowing traffic to flow along two strategic highways, M4 and M5, which connect government-held areas with the Turkish border. But Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which is dominated by members of a former al-Qaeda affiliate, has failed to leave, apparently leading to a spike in deadly airstrikes and shelling by the regime and ally Russia. The surge in attacks has raised fears of an imminent full government offensive, prompting thousands of civilians to flee their homes into rural areas of Idlib province. Syrians in a field near a camp for displaced people in the village of Atme, in the jihadist-held northern Idlib province on 8 May (Aaref Watad/AFP/Getty) (AAREF WATAD/AFP/Getty Images) On Wednesday, pro-government Central Military Media reported that troops entered Kafr Nabudah, a rebel-held village about 50km south of Idlib city, in a southwestern edge of the enclave. The Britain-based SOHR confirmed the ground operation, which was launched with close air support. Civilians and first responders in the area said that the bombardment had been so heavy that many had been forced to hide deep in the countryside with no food or medical supplies. Its mass displacement ... there is no sign of life in the place, Mohamed, a Syria Civil Defence member told The Independent. We cant use the lights or the fire to cook and the stores are closed so, of course, we cant buy any food, he added, explaining that light alerts Russian reconnaissance planes to their location. He said this had slowed the work of first responders. He added: The Russians targeted a house in a nearby town called al-Omqya. When we went there we found five bodies two girls, two boys and a man and we had to work in the dark without using the lights. It took us a lot of time to pull the bodies out. Earlier this week, UN chief Antonio Guterres called for an urgent de-escalation and urged the parties to recommit fully to the ceasefire arrangements. Mr Guterres said at least seven health facilities and nine schools had been hit since 28 April. Unicef executive director Henrietta Fore, meanwhile, said that aid workers were now unable to access many areas. She said: At least 5,500 people have been left with no water at all. Services can only resume once security conditions improve. An aircraft has skidded off the runway in Myanmar, breaking into pieces in the process. The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight was carrying an estimated 33 people, four of whom were injured in the crash. The Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 aircraft departed Bangladeshs Dhaka-Srahjalal International Airport this afternoon before its rocky landing at Myanmars Yangon International Airport. The incident was a result of poor weather conditions, a Biman Airlines spokesperson told local media. Flight BG060 was manned by two pilots and two flight attendants. One of the pilots was among the injured, but the airline spokesperson claimed no one onboard had suffered life threatening injuries. Yangon Airport has been closed following the crash, with all subsequent incoming and outbound flights currently redirected or cancelled. Pictures shared on social media show the extent of the damage to the plane; the body of the jet appears crumpled and the fuselage broken in places by the impact, while the wings also look damaged. Biman is the flag carrier of Bangladesh. The incident follows a plane crash in Russia just a few days ago. Forty-one people died aboard Aeroflot flight SU1492 on 6 May after the jets tail burst into flames. We are at a turning point in the battle to rescue ourselves from climate disaster. The Youth Climate Strikes have inspired a whole new generation, Extinction Rebellion has brought the crisis to the gates of Westminster, 16-year-old Greta Thunberg has told the government in no uncertain terms what it needs to do and now MPs have declared a climate emergency. New voices are bringing fresh light to the most pressing issue of our time, and with it some hope, but the reactionary forces that fear any change to business as usual will be regrouping and rallying to defend old interests and to crush that hope. So while Thunberg may have returned home and the positive creativity that transformed Marble Arch and Waterloo Bridge has moved on, we must find ways to keep the energy and urgency of recent weeks alive. The demand for action is clear, the need beyond doubt. If we lose our nerve now, future generations will never forgive us. That is why I am pushing to create a groundbreaking new law and introduce the worlds first Compassion Act which would completely shift the dial on the current political debate to put inequality and climate breakdown front and centre of the agenda for the coming years. The law, developed along with the campaign group Compassion in Politics, would prevent any future legislation being introduced if it will leave those in the most vulnerable circumstances worse off, or if it benefits current generations at the expense of future ones. Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Show all 12 1 /12 Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures In the protest that started a movement, Greta skips school to sit outside of the Swedish parliament in Stockholm in order to raise awareness of climate change on 28 August 2018 Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos on 25 January AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta stages a protest at the World Economic Forum in Davos on 25 January Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the House of Commons in London on 23 April PA Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses to the occupation at Marble Arch in London on 21 April AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta meets the pope on a visit to Rome Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta speaks at the senate in Rome on 18 April Reuters Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses a debate of the EU Environment, Public Health and Food Safety committee at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on 16 April AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta receives the Special Climate Protection Award at the German Film and Television awards in Berlin on 30 March AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta attends a children's climate protest in Berlin on 29 March AFP/Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta addresses a children's climate protest on 1 March in Hamburg Getty Greta Thunberg inspires climate activists everywhere: In pictures Greta attends a meeting for the Civil Society For rEUnaissance at the EU Charlemagne Building in Brussels on 21 February AFP/Getty These may seem like fairly commonsense goals and that is because they are. They are aligned with the values most of us try to uphold in our home and family lives. We dont throw a family member onto the streets because they have ceased to be of economic value. Similarly, we dont spend everything we have today so that our children have nothing tomorrow. Yet the new economic agenda has left politics divorced from these values for far too long. It has legitimised greed, lauded limitless growth, promoted overconsumption and, courtesy of Brexit, fed and fanned the flames of hate. It has sidelined the values most of us hold dear like honesty, decency and compassion. Our political system has hit a spiritual as well as a physical rock bottom. Today, along with the MPs Heidi Allen, Jo Swinson, Thangam Debbonaire and Tracey Crouch, I will be discussing this proposal in parliament. We have an opportunity now to regain the world leadership we have lost. The climate crisis exists because, for decades, weve behaved with little or no regard for the world our children and grandchildren will inherit. We have chosen business as usual and immediate gratification over a safe planet where all life can thrive. Similarly, years of austerity and ideologically driven privatisation have left the social contract which once bound the government to its people in tatters. We think its time to rewrite that contract and were going to make sure it extends to our children and grandchildren. In doing so we want to carve out a role for Britain as a progressive leader on the world stage setting an example that others will hopefully follow. The crisis that we face right now is not unconquerable: its been made by humans and it can be solved by us. Becoming the first country to put a Compassion Act onto the statute books would show us to be world leaders in the most positive way possible, and be something of which everyone could be proud. If we dont protect what we value most, we will lose it. A Compassion Act would create a threshold below which this country could not fall again. It would help protect against the shameful rise of homelessness, hunger and degradation that the most disadvantaged in our society have experienced. And, it will provide a constructive mechanism for immediately starting to address the climate emergency. After years of austerity and environmental vandalism, and at a time when public trust in politicians is dangerously strained, we believe that a Compassion Act could play a vital role in steering the British political system on to a more inclusive, compassionate and positive path. Caroline Lucas is the Green Party MP for Brighton Pavilion Anyone whos been watching the Netflix-style reality drama that is Donald Trumps White House knows by now that the main character likes to get his own way. For years, he blasted Barack Obamas use of executive orders (277 over eight years) and then proceeded to sign them at greater frequency (105 in two years and three months). He huffed and puffed and shut down the government when he failed to get billions for a border wall. He vetoed legislators efforts to terminate US support for the Saudi-led bombing of Yemen, a blood-soaked operation that has created a humanitarian catastrophe, but which Congress never voted for. Now Trump wants to get his way again. Confronted by a demand from Democrats that the attorney general provide a full, unredacted version of Robert Muellers Russia report, the president has sought to formally assert executive privilege over the document for the first time. This is his ball, he whined, and he no longer wants to play. Democrats responded with the language of high drama and brinkmanship. Trump had triggered a constitutional crisis, claimed congressman Jerry Nadler, chair of the House of Representatives judiciary committee, which has held attorney general William Barr in contempt and has scheduled Mueller to testify in person next week. As a coequal branch of government, we must have access to the materials that we need to fulfil our constitutional responsibilities in a manner consistent with past precedent, said Nadler. Mueller investigation: The key figures Show all 12 1 /12 Mueller investigation: The key figures Mueller investigation: The key figures Robert Mueller is the special counsel overseeing the investigation into Russia's meddling in the 2016 election, and potential obstruction of justice by the president. Mr Mueller has a pristine reputation in Washington, where he was previously in charge of the FBI. Throughout his investigation, he and his team have been notoriously tight lipped about what they know and where their investigation has led. REUTERS Mueller investigation: The key figures Former FBI director James Comey was the catalyst that led to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller. Mr Comey was fired by the president after Mr Trump reportedly asked him to drop his own Russia investigation. Mr Trump has long maintained that the investigation is a "witch hunt". AFP/Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Deputy attorney general Rod Rosenstein had authority over the special counsel investigation for much of the two years it has been active. Mr Rosenstein found himself with that responsibility after then-attorney general Jeff Sessions recused himself from that oversight. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney general Jeff Sessions's decision to recuse himself from oversight of the special counsel investigation may have cost him his job in the end. Mr Sessions resigned last year, after weathering a contentious relationship with Donald Trump who vocally criticised his attorney general for taking a step back. Mr Sessions recused himself from the oversight citing longstanding Justice Department rules to not be involved in investigations overseeing campaigns that officials were apart of. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Attorney General William Barr is currently responsible for oversight of the special counsel investigation. Mr Barr's office will be the first to receive the Mueller report when it is finished. His office will then determine what portion or version of that report should be delivered to Congress, and also made public. EPA Mueller investigation: The key figures Michal Cohn is the president's former personal lawyer, who has been helping the special counsel investigation as a part of a plea deal over financial crimes, and campaign finance crimes, he has pleaded guilty to. Among those crimes, Cohen admitted to facilitating $130,000 in hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 campaign. Cohen has said he did so at the direction of Mr Trump. Cohen has also admitted that he maintained contacts with Russian officials about a potential Trump real estate project in Moscow for months longer than Mr Trump and others admitted. The talks continued well into 2016 during the campaign, he has said. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Stormy Daniels has alleged that she had an affair with Donald Trump in 2006, soon after Melania Trump gave birth to Baron Trump. The accusation is of particular importance as a result of the $130,000 hush money payment she received to keep quiet about the affair during the 2016 campaign. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Paul Manafort was Donald Trump's former campaign chairman. Manafort was charged alongside Rick Gates for a slew of financial crimes, and was convicted on several counts in a Virginia court. He then pleaded guilty to separate charges filed in a Washington court. Manafort has been sentenced to just 7.5 years in prison for his crimes in spite of recommendations from the special counsel's office for a much harsher sentence. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures George Papadopoulos was one of the first individuals associated with the Trump campaign to be charged by the Mueller probe. He ultimately received a 14 day prison sentence for lying to investigators about contacts he had with Russian officials. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Roger Stone is a well known political fixer and operative, who has made a name for himself for some dirty tactics. He has been charged by the Mueller probe earlier this year, and he has been said to have had prior knowledge that WikiLeaks planned on publishing stolen emails from the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. Getty Images Mueller investigation: The key figures Rick Gates was charged alongside former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort for a range of crimes. Gates, who worked alongside Manafort for a pro-Russia Ukrainian political party. The two were charged with conspiracy and financial crimes. Gates pleaded guilty. AP Mueller investigation: The key figures Former national security adviser Michael Flynn was one of the first casualties of the Russia scandal, and was forced out of his position in the White House weeks after Donald Trump took office. Flynn pleaded guilty in 2017 to "willfully" making fraudulent statements about contacts he had with Russian officials including former Russian ambassador to the US Sergey Kislyak. Flynn then lied to Vice President Mike Pence about that contact. REUTERS Both sides are playing to the crowds at this point. The Democratic leadership under Nancy Pelosi has already decided it does not want to uncork the Jeroboam of uncertainty and potential public backlash that impeachment proceedings would represent, and instead has chosen to focus on 2020. At the same time, Pelosi must be seen to be sympathetic to progressives in her party who would like nothing better than to begin impeachment hearings this evening. It suits her, therefore, to have the likes of Nadler continue his investigation and make a lot of noise, even if or especially if it goes nowhere. Democrats can then say they upheld their duty. The president and the White House are also playing a game. Trump has claimed the Mueller report was both a witch hunt and a document that totally exonerated him. It was neither of those things, and it detailed numerous instances in which Trump sought to interfere with or derail the special counsels probe. Yet at this point, its hard to see how releasing a full copy of the report would hurt him, or indeed change anyones overall opinion of the matter. CNN reported that just 3 per cent of Americans said they had read the entire 448-page report, and even that figure is probably considerably higher than those who actually did bother to read it to the very end. Hillary Clinton: anyone but Trump would have been indicted after Mueller report Trumps behaviour in relation to the Mueller report echoes the other instances of him sulking, complaining and bullying until he gets his own way. He does not want people to see his tax returns, so he refuses to release them. He does not want to acknowledge Russia sought to help elect him, so he ignores his intelligence officials and their reports on Moscows influence. He doesnt want two women to tell stories about having affairs with him when he was married to his third wife, Melania, so he ensures they are paid off, even if it means the man who made the payments for him gets sent to jail. This 72-year-old, born into privilege and wealth, has been getting his way all his life. Why do we keep expecting hes going to change? The Dail was suspended to allow TDs time to read broadband documents (Yui Mok/PA) The Dail has been suspended by 90 minutes to allow TDs time to read broadband documents issued minutes before the house resumed after its Easter break. The decision was made to postpone Leaders Questions over the Governments delay in publishing the information. In the memo, the secretary general at the Department of Public Expenditure warned that the National Broadband Plan, approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday, posed great financial risks. It strikes me this is a very cynical way for the government to do its businessMary Lou McDonald, Sinn Fein leader Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said the Dail had been treated very shabbily as the documentation had been promised early on Wednesday but it was published five minutes before Leaders Question was scheduled to begin. The documentation is of the most grave and serious kind relating to correspondence from the Department of Public Expenditure in relation to the national broadband plan and the unprecedented risks to the State in the words of the secretary general of that department, he said. No one expected this type of approach, Mr Martin said as he sought the adjournment. Labour Party leader Brendan Howlin said it was promised that the house would do things differently after the debacle of the national childrens hospital. This is just not a good enough way of dealing with these matters, he said. Mr Howlin said TDs needed time to be able to analyse the information in detail before having questions ready. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said: It strikes me this is a very cynical way for the government to do its business. I dont know what, if any, explanation there is for publication of these documents five minutes out from Leaders Questions. She added that it should be the Taoiseach, not Communications Minister Richard Bruton, who should be taking questions on the matter. Independent TD Mattie McGrath described the move as nothing short of an election gimmick. Rural people deserve broadband and theyre not getting it and they wont get it with this plan and youre waiting hour by hour putting it off to hide the deceit and the deception that you want to hide, he said. Social Democrat TD Catherine Murphy told the Dail: I too believe that its a cynical move to dump this information at this point in the day when its known theres going to be Leaders Questions. I also think the timing of the announcement has been quite cynical as well. The Garda ombudsman is not involved in implementing a government plan on the future of policing, a committee has heard. The Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission (GSOC), which investigates complaints made about the police, told the Oireachtas Justice Committee on Wednesday that the bulk of those involved in the plan are civil servants. Justice Mary Ellen Ring, chairperson of GSOC, said that her organisation had just one meeting with implementation personnel of the four-year plan Policing Service For The Future which is to be enacted by January 1 2021. Its clear, as one looks at the membership, there is significant membership from Secretary Generals from throughout the public service, similarly, deputy secretary generals, a significant number of cross-departmental representatives, also not surprisingly, the Garda Commissioner, she said. As the legislation is also going to deal with new structures in terms of oversight, I cant help you as to why it wasnt thought there wasnt representation from current oversight bodies. We had one meeting with implementation personnel, they continue their work at their rate, they have an ambitious timetable under the Department of an Taoiseach and it would appear they are anxious to make change. Independent TD Clare Daly replied: I have to say, hand on heart, on what youve said, Im very worried about where this is going. You were here three years ago, legislation was drafted, and could be in place now, but now were in a situation where you havent seen any paperwork at all, youve no idea what aspects are included in it, and you can put on the public record that the body looking at the implementation, is heavy on civil service, heavy on Gardai, and has zero involvement from oversight bodies, and that is actually scary and unhelpful. Its an appalling spectre but not surprising. Expand Close The Garda badge logo (Niall Carson/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Garda badge logo (Niall Carson/PA) A complete overhaul of the Irish police service was recommended after being dogged by years of controversy, including a whistleblower scandal which resulted in a major tribunal which highlighted dramatic shortcomings in protection for those who make complaints about the force. The Charleton Report found that whistleblower Sgt Maurice McCabe was repulsively denigrated for being no more than a good citizen and police officer. The number of whistleblower complaints requiring investigation by the ombudsman doubled last year from 24 to 49, the organisation has repeatedly raised concerns about a lack of resources to investigate the complaints properly. GSOC also told committee members that comprehensive oversight of the force is not possible because the Gardai continues to conduct investigations into complaints without informing the watchdog. If GSOC and Gardai are both investigating the same complaint, the committee heard that the two organisations will not communicate or share information, and GSOC cannot publish their report if the Gardai has not completed their investigation, which can stall any outcome for the complainant. It was noted that making complaints can be an incredibly stressful and difficult, and officers are often on sick leave with their work or personal life suffering in the interim. Justice Ring added her organisation at times only became aware of incidents involving officers after they picked up the paper or heard it on Morning Ireland, and were told by Gardai after inquiring, that they were being investigated internally and it didnt occur to officers they had to inform GSOC. She added that the system of investigating protected disclosures was working well enough however they have difficulty in any case knowing whether they have been supplied with all relevant information. We can get what we ask for, but we dont always get what is relevant, we have to accept weve gotten everything, she added. We dont know sometimes whether we have everything and we have no sanction in that regard, its an ongoing issue, and it may be that its something that will always exist, short of us going into every press ourselves. Tanaiste Simon Coveney has welcomed the signing of an agreement with the UK underpinning free movement of people between Ireland and the UK irrespective of what happens with Brexit. The agreement was signed in London by Mr Coveney and his British opposite number, David Lidington, amid new contacts between the two governments began to support renewed all-party talks in Belfast aimed at ending stalemate in the North. The agreement will affect some 800,000 Irish citizens living in the UK and 270,000 UK citizens living in Ireland. The memorandum of understanding between the two governments allows citizens of both countries to cross the Irish border and move freely between Britain and Ireland. It allows cross-border access to education, welfare, and healthcare among other services. The London-Dublin government contacts are part of the renewed bid to restore devolved power-sharing at Stormont, initiated after the murder of journalist Lyra McKee in Derry on April 19. Five political working groups set up to address contested issues at the heart of the Stormont impasse, such as the Irish language, began work on Wednesday. The UK-Irish Common Travel Area (CTA) pre-dates Irish and UK membership of the EU in 1973, stretching back to the 1920s. There was no legally binding international agreement which established its terms and the memo is an attempt to reinforce that understanding. "The CTA has provided rights and privileges to Irish and British citizens for nearly a century," the Tanaiste said. Dairy processors are facing a wall of milk for the next fortnight as they battle to keep supplies processed through the peak production period. Weekly supplies are running 13-20pc ahead of last year, as a combination of bigger cow numbers and strong grass growth is reflected in increased deliveries. Ireland is on target for another record year of milk supplies, and is set to exceed the 8bn litre mark for the first time. Last year's figure topped 7.5bn litres. Industry sources are confident there is enough processing capacity in the system nationally to deal with the latest surge in milk supplies, but they cautioned that every plant will be needed to stay on stream over the next few weeks, despite close to 1bn being invested in stainless steel over the last decade. A spokesman for Arrabawn said: "The entire industry will need the next few months to go smoothly. Any interruptions to processing will cause a challenge." Another industry insider said processing capacity could be "in trouble" if there were problems at any of the major facilities, especially over a weekend. Most dairies expect to see milk deliveries peak over the coming week, which is much earlier than usual. Processors report a massive jump in April milk supplies compared to both 2018 and 2017. However, the 2017 comparisons give a more accurate picture since last year's milk deliveries were badly affected by the atrocious spring weather. April supplies are running 19pc ahead of last year in Arrabawn, and almost 14pc up on 2017. The year-to-date figures show a 16.5pc jump on 2018 supplies, with deliveries running 18.6pc ahead of 2017. Glanbia said April supplies were 20pc ahead of 2018, while the year-to-date supply figure was 15pc higher than last year. Milk supplies to Lakeland Dairies for April were 20pc up on 2018, with year-to-date deliveries 15pc higher. April milk supplies at Dairygold were 16pc up on 2018 and 5pc ahead of 2017. Milk deliveries year-to-date are 10pc higher than last year, and 5pc up on 2017. Milk supplies in Kerry are also running well ahead of last year's levels, with deliveries up 16pc in April compared to 2018, and year-to-date production up 6.5pc on last year. Similarly, milk production is well up in West Cork. April milk supplies to co-ops in the region are 13-17pc up on 2018, with year-to-date supplies 7-15pc higher than last year. An Offaly man is being sued by a Co Galway farmer who claims he was sold an infertile pedigree bull. Micheal Ryan, Waterloo, Menlough, Mountbellew is seeking nearly 16,000 in damages because the bull he bought from Tom Harney, Moneygall in June 2013 was unable to put his cows in calf. The case involving a pedigree Limousin bull called Finboy Gino came before Judge Karen Fergus at Tullamore Circuit Civil Court yesterday (Thursday, May 2). The court heard Mr Ryan, a suckler farmer, bought the bull from Mr Harney after seeing an ad on Donedeal. He paid 2,700 for the animal having been assured the bull had already sired at least one calf. After bringing the bull to his 22-strong herd he saw him serving a cow within minutes of coming off the trailer and Finboy Gino seemed to be doing his job in the following days and weeks. But when he had the cows scanned the following November not one of them was pregnant and when he contacted the seller he was told the bull was working when he left the farm in Moneygall. Mr Ryan engaged a fertility expert to test the bull and was told Finboy Gino's semen was useless. The court heard evidence on behalf of Mr Harney that his vet noticed an injury to the bull's penis which would render him incapable of servicing cows even though he was producing semen. The defendant contended the injury must have occurred after the bull was sold and there was DNA evidence from a lab run by the leading animal parentage firm Wetherby's that Finboy Gino had sired a calf prior to the sale. The court heard the claim for 15,826 included the value of the bull after he had been sent to the meat factory and the income he would have earned had he sired 20 calves. Having heard more than three hours of evidence, Judge Fergus said she would announce her decision next Thursday morning (May 9). US VAPING giant Juul Labs - in which Marlboro owner Altria paid $12.8bn (11.4bn) for a 35pc stake last year - aims to capture a slice of the Irish market with a launch across 160 Circle-K forecourts and 50 Hale Vaping stores. The controversial company was accused by the former head of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last month, during his final week in office, of being "largely" responsible for what he said was a nicotine "addiction crisis" among US teens. It's facing a class action lawsuit in the United States, launched last month by a Florida teenager through her parents. They claim their daughter is addicted to Juul and suffers from seizures, "a known complication of nicotine ingestion". Juul - with estimated revenue of $1.5bn (1.3bn) last year - reckons the vaping market in Ireland is worth around 69m a year. But with 830,000 tobacco users, the group thinks it has a significant opportunity to sell its wares to smokers trying to give up what the industry calls "combustible" tobacco products - mainly cigarettes. In the US, Juul controls 75pc of the e-cigarette market, from a standing start in 2015. Juul EMEA president Grant Winterton insisted that the company will not be targeting teens with its products. Fruity flavours the company sold for its vaping product in the US were criticised for sparking teen use of the products. Under pressure from the FDA, Juul pulled its Facebook and Instagram accounts. In the US, the term 'Juuling' has entered the teen vernacular as a term for vaping. "We never marketed to teens," Mr Winterton told the Irish Independent as the company launched in Dublin yesterday. "There is no evidence we ever did." He insisted that the FDA has "never made that accusation". He added that the company does not use so-called "media influencers" who promote products on their own social media accounts in return for payment. "Is it true that we've taken some learnings from the United States about how to move forward best in terms of targeting adult smokers? It is true," he said. In the US, aside from yanking its social media accounts (it maintains a corporate Twitter account), Juul removed flavours such as mango that are most likely to appeal to teens from in-store sale last year. But the company still faces significant hurdles in persuading public representatives that it has done enough to stem the use of products among teens. In Ireland, Juul said that its retail partners have been tasked with making sure anyone who looks under the age of 25 has evidence they are over 18. It added that retailers will be "regularly monitored" through an auditing scheme to ensure they are sticking to the rules. The packs also carry warnings that nicotine is highly addictive. The company has also partnered with Circle-K, owned by Canadian group Alimentation Couche-Tard, in other markets, according to Gareth Smyth, the manager of Juul Labs in Ireland. Mr Winterton said that expanding outside the United States is not a reaction to negative public opinion there. "We've launched in nine markets. We'll launch more markets in the next 12 months across Europe and across Asia," he said. "If we're going to enact the vision of the company to offer an alternative to one billion smokers, then we're at the very start of the runway in terms of what we need to do in terms of expansion." Grafton Group, which owns Woodie's DIY, has reported a 6.4pc increase in like-for-like revenue to 962m (1.1bn) in the four months to 30 April. The performance benefitted from the "momentum" in the companys Irish and Dutch businesses. In Ireland, revenue in Graftons merchating business increased 10.7pc year-on-year in the four months to 30 April, while in the Netherlands revenue increased by 8pc. In a trading update ahead of its AGM today, the group said growth in total revenue was impacted by the disposal of two non-core UK merchanting businesses in the second half of 2018. Gavin Slark, CEO of Grafton Group said: "The group had a positive start to the year and we should continue to benefit from the momentum in our Irish and Dutch businesses." "Underlying demand in the UK [repair, maintenance, and improvement] RMI market remains relatively subdued and we continue to focus on realising the benefits from the investments we have made in recent years into our higher margin Selco and Leyland SDM businesses." During the four month period the groups retailing business reported a 12pc increase in revenue, while its manufacturing arm recorded a 7.3pc increase in revenue. Up to 200 festivals around the country are now under threat due to the insurance crisis. It comes as a world-famous angling festival in the west of Ireland has been forced to cancel its summer event due to surging insurance premiums. It is the first time in 65 years the Ballina Salmon Festival has had to cancel. The festival was due to take place in July, but in a statement its directors said it would not be possible to hold this year's event. "The festival has experienced a difficult period since the end of the 2018 festival. This, coupled with increased insurance and general festival costs have resulted in the decision that the 2019 festival will not go ahead," they said. Other festivals are now also threatened by a combination of surging insurance premiums and regulatory changes making it more expensive to have first-aiders on standby. Executive director of the Association of Irish Festivals and Events (Aoife) Colm Croffy said as many as 200 festivals may be forced to cancel this summer and autumn. Up to now, festivals have relied on Civil Defence members to provide first-aid in the event of an accident. But health regulators are currently reviewing its certification of Civil Defence members as first-aiders, Mr Croffy explained. He said regulators may not renew approval of certain Civil Defence emergency medical operations after July 31 this year. "Festivals are already stretched to breaking point by rocketing insurance costs and this is the thing that will push them over the edge," he said. "Most festival insurers will price on the basis that emergency first-aiders like Civil Defence are in attendance." He said that if Civil Defence personnel are not approved, the organisers will have to pay for professional paramedical teams to ensure that they can get insurance. "Many cannot afford to do so, and if they can't get insurance, the event won't go ahead under current regulations," he said, adding that the dispute will have an immediate impact on the autumn and winter festival schedule. "We call on the Department of Defence and the HSE to resolve the matter straight away so our festivals can plan ahead without fear of closure." He said the Ballina Salmon Festival was not affected by the Civil Defence certification issue, but was hit by a sharp rise in its insurance premium. Mr Croffy said festivals were being hit with double-digit premium hikes for the last three years now. Despite providing grants to committees running festivals, local authorities were now demanding event organisers provide up to 9.6m in indemnity from their insurers. Aoife is a member of the Alliance for Insurance Reform. Alliance director Peter Boland called on the Government to address the insurance crisis. "For over two years now we have had a roadmap of necessary reforms in place. "Yet inexplicable delays in the establishment of the Garda Insurance Fraud Unit and the enactment of the Judicial Council Bill mean that we are no closer to solving this problem than we were in January 2017," he said. The HSE referred queries to the Department of Health's regulator for emergency care. The Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council had not responded to a request for a comment by the time of going to press. In the past two weeks, 1,000 jobs were saved when play centres secured insurance cover. Some 61 play centres were threatened with closure over insurance costs. Meath businesswoman Linda Murray managed to keep her play centre in Navan open by securing insurance for her firm, and 60 similar facilities across the country. Our Technology editor answers all your questions on the controversial 3bn rural broadband plan I'm sick of waiting for decent broadband. Is this actually going to happen? It's really starting to look a lot more likely. There's now a roll-out schedule and a contract almost ready to be signed with an official "preferred bidder" for the massive 3bn rural broadband contract. That bidder is Granahan McCourt, which has registered a company called 'National Broadband Ireland' especially to do this roll-out and operate the network for the next 35 years. Does everyone get it? No. You have to be in one of 540,000 (mostly rural) homes or businesses that have been assessed as having sub-par broadband. In technical terms, that means you can't get a service of over 30Mbs. About a million people live in areas like this. That's definitely my area. So when will I get it? It depends in which one of the 540,000 designated rural households you live. The first homes will likely be connected in early 2020, with the roll-out officially slated to begin this autumn. The Government says all counties will initially see thousands of premises hooked up. But the overall timetable is five years to hook up 400,000 of these premises, with the remaining 100,000 taking another two years. What if I'm one of those 100,000? The Government has built in a provision for 300 community "points" around the country in areas like libraries and village centres that will be connected to fibre broadband, even if local households are still waiting. This would give residents a chance to work or access the service close to their own home. Do I get it no matter where I live? Yes. That includes people living on islands or up mountains. Do you have to have your home built already to qualify for the rural service? No. Any new home built in a rural area currently not served by a decent broadband operator will qualify to get the subsidised service. How much will it cost me? About the same as a high speed city broadband service from the likes of Virgin, Eir, Vodafone or Sky. That means around 35-per-month for a 150Mbs service. There's also a 100 connection cost, although it's unclear yet whether the householder or the retailer will pay this. What sort of broadband are we talking about? Fixed fibre. The kind of line that can easily run a business, multiple high definition services or a combination of the two. It's delivered into your home like a telephone wire - in fact, it's mostly distributed over existing telephone poles. There isn't really anything better you can currently get, either in Ireland or anywhere else. Yes, but if it's a State-subsidised service, doesn't it mean it will get a bit shabby and fall behind private services after a while? Apparently not. It's written into the contract the rural fibre service has to keep pace with city and urban equivalents. To be more specific, this is a fibre network being built to accommodate speeds of up to 10,000Mbs from launch (even though it will initially only market services of up to 1,000Mbs). But the minute Eir or Siro or Virgin starts selling ultra high speed broadband at, say, 2,000Mbs or 5,000Mbs, this network is obliged to offer a like-for-like service. So if I want to sign up, who do I contact? It's a 'wholesale' network. This basically means it's a backbone being built that branded retailers you've already heard of (like Eir or Vodafone or Sky) can use to then sell you a broadband package. So either one (or more) of these companies will start marketing this new top-of-the-line fibre broadband to you, or you can ring up and ask whether they sell it in your area. They'll be the ones you talk to and get a bill from. Is this going to be watched over by Comreg? Or if I have a complaint about my service, who do I turn to? You can still complain to Comreg. They'll bring it up with the retailer (it might be Vodafone or Sky or Eir using the NBP network, selling you the service). Is it just broadband or will it improve my mobile signal? It's just broadband. Although if you do have decent broadband you can often boost your mobile signal using increasingly common digital boxes. I heard the Government won't own the network at the end of the 25-year contract with the bidder. So what happens to my broadband when that's up? The bidder has an obligation to maintain the service for an extra 10 years at an equivalent high standard. After that, it's up to the regulator (or government) of the day to decide on how much the bidder can then charge you. I've heard all of this before. Where does this ranks on a scale of one to 10 in terms of reality? Eight. The Government appears to have turned a corner. It has made up its mind and now has the contract all but signed. Vodafone has stepped up its battle to gain regulatory approval for its Liberty Global deal by offering rival Telefonica Deutschland access to its enlarged high-speed broadband network. The world's No 2 mobile operator agreed a year ago to pay 19.6bn for Liberty's cable networks in Germany and central Europe, seeking increased fixed-line heft to better compete with German market leader Deutsche Telekom. Seeking to increase competition in the German market and defuse criticism of the deal, Vodafone said that Telefonica Deutschland would be able to offer super-fast services over Vodafone and Liberty's Unitymedia cable networks in Germany if the deal is approved. The networks will cover 23.7 million households and would help Telefonica Deutschland to move up from its distant third position in fixed-line broadband, behind Deutsche and Vodafone. Telefonica Deutschland CEO Markus Haas said the agreement would enable it to connect millions of additional households in Germany with high-speed internet. "By adding fast cable connections, we now have access to an extensive infrastructure portfolio and can offer to even more O2 customers attractive broadband products - including internet-based TV with O2 TV - for better value for money," he said. Telefonica Deutschland has nearly a quarter of the German mobile market, second to Deutsche and ahead of Vodafone, according to a 2018 estimate by VATM, which represents independent telecom firms. But it has long trailed rivals in the fixed-line broadband market, with just 5.9pc. US-based Liberty Global, headed by Irish-American John Malone, has extensive international operations, and has already sold its Austrian business and is now seeking to exit Switzerland as well as Germany and central Europe in what would be its biggest ever divestment. It owns Virgin Media in Ireland. It had 13 million subscriptions and made revenue of 626m in Germany in the first quarter of this year. CEO Mike Fries said he was confident the deal could be completed this summer. "We have crossed a number of key milestones and the European Commission is currently in the final stages of its review," he said. Yesterday's announcement was designed to win over regulators in Brussels reviewing the proposed merger with Liberty, before a decision by July 9. Reuters DANISH prosecutors have charged Thomas Borgen, former chief executive of Danske Bank, over his involvement in one of the world's biggest money-laundering scandals, newspaper 'Borsen' reported on Tuesday, citing his lawyer. Mr Borgen is the first person to be charged in a case that involves suspicious transactions of some 200bn that passed through Danske Bank's Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015. Denmark's biggest bank is being investigated by authorities in several other countries including the US, where it could face major fines. Shares in Danske Bank have more than halved since March last year, and on Tuesday fell to their lowest since August 2013 following the 'Borsen' report, which did not specify the nature of the charges against the bank's former CEO. Mr Borgen, who had been in charge of Danske Bank's international operations, including Estonia, between 2009 and 2012, resigned in September after an investigation revealed the scale of the suspicious payments. Prosecutors raided Mr Borgen's home on March 12, the report quoted the lawyer as saying. 'Borsen' also cited unnamed sources as saying the Danish prosecutor had charged at least two other former managers at Danske Bank in relation to the money-laundering case, but did not give any names. Mr Borgen and his lawyer did not respond to calls, while the prosecutor and Danske Bank both declined to comment. Denmark's state prosecutor filed preliminary charges against Danske Bank itself in November for alleged violations of the country's anti-money laundering act in relation to its Estonian branch. The prosecutor said at the time he would clarify whether individuals could be held responsible. The money-laundering scandal has also spread to Sweden. Reuters International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Christine Lagarde has issued a fresh warning of the risks a threatened trade war poses for the world economy. US stock index futures fell yesterday as uncertainty of a trade deal being reached between the United States and China kept investors on edge. In a surprise tweet on Sunday, US President Donald Trump said higher levies will go into effect this Friday if no deal with China is sealed. His comments triggered a global sell-off in stocks and inflamed fears of a slowdown in global growth. Ms Lagarde warned the risk of escalation was real. "We thought this threat was waning and relations were improving and we were moving toward an agreement," she said in Paris. "We hope that is still the case but today rumours, tweets and comments are not very favourable." Meanwhile, Brussels and Washington are in "daily contact" on trade threats and there is no deterioration the relations, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has insisted. The head of the EU Commission said President Trump could be trusted on EU-US trade relations, but that the China-US trade conflict needs to be resolved soon to restore investor confidence. China's Vice Premier Liu He will visit the US this week for trade talks, Beijing said yesterday, playing down a sudden increase in tension after Mr Trump vowed to impose the new tariffs. US officials said China had backtracked on commitments made during months of negotiations, prompting Mr Trump to say he'll raise tariffs on $200bn worth of Chinese goods to 25pc from 10pc by the end of the week, and would "soon" target remaining Chinese imports with tariffs. At a news conference in Brussels, Mr Juncker said nothing had changed in transatlantic trade relations since he met Mr Trump in Washington last July. "White House people and my teams are in nearly daily contact with the administration and so I think that we can trust the president of the US when it comes to trade relations between the US and Europe," he said. Mr Juncker added that he felt a major part of global economic problems was related to trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. Meanwhile, Beijing's willingness to continue with the talks in the face of Mr Trump's tweets shows it would remain calm and "focus on the talks rather than engage in public opinion warfare", the widely-read state-run 'Global Times' said in an editorial. The ruling Communist Party's official People's Daily said China had weathered such threats before, and would keep calm. Additional reporting Reuters/Bloomberg US/Irish actress Saoirse Ronan arrives for the 2019 Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 6, 2019, in New York Academy award-nominated actress Saoirse Ronan is to swap the glitz and glamour of New York's fabled Met Gala for the idyllic locations of the Fastnet Film Festival. The Carlow actress stunned onlookers at the Met Gala on Monday night in Manhattan with one of the most daring ensembles at the famous fashion event. Soon she will head to Schull in west Cork for Fastnet, which has emerged as one of Europe's most popular boutique festivals. It has been boosted by the Irish star agreeing to participate in its programme, which runs from May 22-26 next. Expand Close Irish actress Ruth Negga wears Louis Vuitton. Picture: Getty / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Irish actress Ruth Negga wears Louis Vuitton. Picture: Getty The 25-year-old actress will join author Roddy Doyle, director Jim Sheridan and Academy Award-winning film historian Kevin Brownlow at the Schull festival. On Monday, the Irish star wowed fans with a full-length Gucci gown which carried definite hints of the smash-hit 'Game of Thrones' TV series. With oversized shoulders and sweeping dragon-style detailing, Ronan's gown dominated the press coverage of the legendary New York arts event. It marks another triumph for the Irish actress, who was hailed for her stirring role in the epic 'Mary Queen of Scots'. Irish writer Sinead Burke was also present on the pink carpet for the Met Gala. The educator, advocate and 'Vogue' contributor wore a black velvet Gucci gown with blue bows on a dramatic neckline, teamed with a gold headband. Writing in 'Vogue' before the event, Burke said it had been a "dream" of hers to attend the Met Gala. Video of the Day "The Met Gala is a symbol of the fashion system, an institution within the fashion calendar and a global touchpoint for so many to be educated on the voices that we should listen to," she added. "As a disabled woman, I firmly believe in the phrase, 'If you can see it, you can be it'." Among the other international stars taking to the carpet on Monday night were Kate Moss, the Kardashians, Miley Cyrus and Lady Gaga. Model Emily Ratajkowski, whose father is from Cork, walked out in a 'naked' dress with flamboyant winged headpiece. Fastnet Film Festival organisers admitted securing the involvement of Ronan was a major coup for the 2019 event. An Armagh man has been remanded in custody after he was accused of stealing vehicles and machinery worth 25,000 while on the run. Ryan Cassidy absconded after twice failing to appear for sentencing for an assault. Cassidy (22) from Drumarg Park, Armagh, had been found guilty last month of the 2018 assault and was awaiting sentencing alongside his father, Joseph Cassidy (49) from Killyfaddy Road, Moy. Following their convictions at Dungannon Magistrates' Court, the case was adjourned for pre-sentence reports - but Cassidy Jnr absconded. He was at large for a month and, following his arrest, it emerged a swathe of charges relates to dates when he was on the run. A police officer said all 24 charges could be connected to the defendant. Cassidy Jnr allegedly stole a Toyota Land Cruiser valued at 10,000 on April 11, then two days later stole a tractor and tools, also valued at 10,000. Over dates between April 11 and 15, he allegedly drove the Land Cruiser while disqualified and without insurance in Armagh. On April 14, Cassidy Jnr allegedly stole a trailer, power-washer, bale lifter, bale spike and sheep hurdles worth 5,000. Separately, he is accused of driving a Jaguar X-Type dangerously at Station Road, Armagh while disqualified and without insurance on April 11. It is further alleged he failed to stop, remain and report after an accident occurred in which injury was caused. A third set of allegations relate to December 7, 2018, when Cassidy Jnr is accused of entering a house in the Banbrook Hill area of Armagh and stealing car keys, then taking the car in question without the owner's consent, and driving it while disqualified and without insurance. All three of these sets of charges were adjourned to Armagh Magistrates' Court for a video-link appearance on May 21. The remaining eight charges relate to Cassidy Jnr's arrest on May 2, after being at large. He is accused of intentionally exposing his genitals to cause alarm or distress, damaging a television aerial and three counts each of assaulting police and resisting arrest. These matters will be mentioned at Dungannon Magistrates' Court by video-link on a date to be fixed later this month. There was no application for bail, leading District Judge John Meehan to order an immediate remand in custody. Rehab Group, which claims it is at risk of having to shut down its entire care services due to financial difficulties, has 12 staff earning more than 100,000 in salaries, according to its latest annual report. The charity, which provides services for people with a disability, met Health Minister Simon Harris yesterday evening and said it needed another 2m to continue to operate. Earlier, it warned that it would have to send out a notification today giving a year's notice of its decision to terminate all care contracts. But this was deferred following the meeting where it was agreed to "engage in a week-long process of intense discussion with the HSE in a bid to seek resolution". A spokeswoman for Mr Harris said Disabilities Minister Finian McGrath was also at the meeting. "The HSE and Rehab agreed to engage intensively and meet again with the ministers next week," she said. A Rehab Group spokeswoman said: "We hope a solution will have been identified which will safeguard these critical services for the 3,000 people in our care, and our 1,500 staff". It has 147 services in 117 locations around the country. "We will continue to fight for the funding we need to safeguard these services which are so critical to the people we serve," she said. Rehab received an additional 1m to its funding from the HSE this year. But it is facing financial difficulties due to the higher expense of providing care, as well as the need to meet the demands of the watchdog, the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), whose inspectors have been critical of some centres. The organisation said it made cuts to reduce costs, including reducing staff and salaries, selling a building in Sandymount, shutting down loss-making services and closing its defined benefit pension scheme. Rehab Group was at the centre of controversy in recent years with particular focus on the 240,000 salary of its former CEO Angela Kerins. She was succeeded by Mo Flynn, who took a salary of 140,000, a sum on a par with other charity chiefs. Its 2017 accounts showed that, among the 12 staff earning more than 100,000, there was one employee earning more than 140,000. Three earned between 110,000 and 130,000. There were 66 employees earning between 60,000 and 80,000. Recently published HIQA inspection reports found varying standards in RehabCare centres. Inspections of seven centres operated by RehabCare found that four were meeting the needs of residents, in line with the regulations and standards. One RehabCare centre, however, required improvements to its individual assessments and personal plans, and to its protection policies and practices. In another RehabCare centre, inspectors found improvements were required to the centre's governance and management, as well as its risk management procedures. An inspection of another RehabCare centre found that the governance and management of the centre was poor and had a negative impact on residents' quality of life and safety. Inspectors identified serious risks on this inspection, and issued three immediate actions to the provider. In addition, the provider did not assess residents' health and social care needs or individual risks. Further non-compliance was found in staffing and fire precautions. SCHOOLGIRL Ana Kriegel's hair was covering her face when gardai found her body in a derelict farmhouse "as if she had been thrashing her hair", a trial has heard. There was a "noose" or ligature around the 14-year-old's neck and a sergeant gave evidence that Ana had three fingers inside the tie as if she was trying to "pull it away from her neck". A concrete block and a piece of timber, both with blood stains, were also photographed by gardai in the room where her body was found, the murder trial heard today. Two youths, aged 13 at the time, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ana (14) at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road in Lucan on May 14 last year. Expand Close Garda have been giving evidence to the murder trial in Dublin (handout/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Garda have been giving evidence to the murder trial in Dublin (handout/PA) One of the boys, Boy A, has also denied a charge of aggravated sexual assault. It is the prosecution's case that Boy B "lured" Ana to the derelict farmhouse and then watched as the other boy sexually assaulted and murdered her. Sergeant Declan Birchall, the member in charge of the Divisional Search Team, told the Central Criminal Court that on May 17, 2018 he and his team has been tasked to search the park for any signs of Ana, who was missing. Sgt Birchall said the team of four had arranged to meet at the entrance to the park at 12 noon. There were a number of derelict buildings in the area, and it was planned to search them. Sgt Birchall said he and his team were searching Glenwood House and its outbuildings when one of his colleagues said he may have found something in the main house. Sgt Birchall said he went into Glenwood House through the walk door and into a room at the front of the house. Asked by prosecutor Brendan Grehan SC what he saw, Sgt Birchall said he saw the "body of a naked female lying on the floor". She was naked except for a pair of black socks, the court heard. Sgt Birchall said the body's feet were facing the door and her head was towards the window. She was lying diagonally across the room. Sgt Birchall said he could not see Ana's face and he believed there was something across her face. When he got closer he realised her hair was covering her face "as if she was thrashing her hair and it covered her face". he said. Sgt Birchall said he also noted blood at Ana's nose and her head was tilted back. There was a tie or ligature or "noose" around her neck and she had three fingers inside it, as if she was "pulling it away". He checked for signs of life but there were no signs. Sgt Birchall said he and his team then removed themselves from the building to allow gardai to photograph the scene. In his evidence, Detective Garda Eoin Conway, from the Garda Technical Bureau, said that he photographed Glenwood House in Lucan between May 17 and May 20. Gda Conway said he took the booklet of photographs, which were handed to the jury this morning. In one of the photographs, Gda Conway identified the body of Ana Kriegel, which had been pixelated, he said. Ana was "lying on her back and her right arm was stretched out", the garda said. Gda Conway said he photographed a black hoodie type top with white lettering as well as a black boot and black shorts. In yet another photograph, Gda Conway identified a piece of timber, with blood stains on it, as well as a concrete block, also with blood stains on it. Gda Conway gave evidence that other photographs contained "items of clothing" and showed "areas on the carpet and walls were there is blood staining". The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women. A 16-year-old schoolboy has been awarded damages of 36,000 after the vehicle he was travelling in was struck by a car, driven by a man who threatened to stab a witness at the scene, a judge heard today. Oisin Putt, of Oakdale Road, Ballycullen Park, Dublin 24, was traveling in the passenger seat of his fathers car in October 2016, when they were hit by a vehicle driven by the late Keith Willis, as they pulled away from traffic lights in Palmerston, Dublin. Oisin, who was 14 at the time of the accident sued the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland through his father, David Put, after having suffered both physical and psychological injuries following the collision. Barrister Alistair Rutherdale, counsel for Oisin, told the President of the Circuit Court, Mr Justice Raymond Groarke, that Oisin had suffered pain in his arms, neck and shoulders in the aftermath of the crash. Mr Rutherdale, who appeared with David R Fowler Solicitors, said Oisin had also suffered psychological issues such as sleeping difficulty, panic attacks, nightmares, flashbacks and nervousness in a car. Counsel said that Oisins relevant medical history includes spina bifia and that he is wheelchair bound. He said that prior to the accident he suffered from no pain. Mr Putt, in a signed affidavit to the court, said he believed there had been some issues with Mr Willis after the crash and that he felt he had been on drugs or alcohol. Oisins father David, describing the accident, said in an affidavit that he and his son had just started to pull away from the lights when the car, driven by Willis, came round a corner from the Chapelizod Bypass at speed and hit the car he was driving, on the Kennelsfort Road, spinning it around. He said there was a heavy impact and that the airbags deployed, striking Oisin in the face. Mr Putt said Willis then made attempts to leave the scene and threatened to stab a witness who was trying to prevent him fleeing. Mr Putt said that when the Gardai later called to see Willis he was wearing a bullet proof vest and had been under the impression there were criminals after him. He stated that Willis had multiple convictions and, prior to his death, had been in prison. Mr Rutherdale said Willis had since died but in any event was uninsured at the time of the accident. He said there was a concern that the vehicle registration was bogus but that Gardai had been unable to advance this aspect of their investigation. Judge Groarke approved the offer which had been recommended by Mr Rutherdale and awarded Oisin damages totalling 36,055. Convicted rapist Eoin Berkeley has appeared in court charged with criminal damage after allegedly setting fire to two industrial bins. Berkeley (25) is serving a 14 year sentence for the repeated rape of a Spanish student on an area of wasteland in Sandymount in July 2017. The student told a court she believed she was going to be killed by Berkeley, who kept her captive for 21 hours. Berkeley, who is originally from Finglas, told the terrified teenager he had killed six people as he threatened to smash her head with a stone, and said he would cut her hands off with a saw. Expand Close Eoin Berkeley. Photo: Damien Eagers / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Eoin Berkeley. Photo: Damien Eagers The victim, then 18, was raped three times before Berkeley finally fell asleep and she ran for her life. Berkeley pleaded guilty last November and was sentenced to 14 years. He was taken from the Midlands Prison this morning and appeared before Judge Geraldine Carthy at a sitting of Dublin District Court in the Criminal Courts of Justice. Garda Christopher Lanney gave evidence of arresting him at the court and putting the criminal damage charge to him. The charge is that on May 31 2017 Berkeley committed arson by setting two industrial bins on fire at Liberty Lane in Dublin 8 intending to damage the property or be reckless as to whether the property would be damaged. Berkeley made no reply when charged, the court heard. Judge Carthy remanded Berkeley in custody for one week. Berkeleys solicitor Tony Collier sought disclosure of CCTV footage and a memorandum of garda interviews. This was granted by the judge. Mr Collier also successfully applied for free legal aid. Berkeley did not speak during the short hearing. Wearing dark blue jeans, rolled up at the bottom, and Doc Martens boots, he kept his hands in the pockets of his blue anorak and looked around the court. An inquest into the death of a former Bord na Mona employee, who died from an asbestos-related cancer, has heard he was exposed to asbestos while working at one of the company's briquette factories more than 50 years ago. Jim O'Dwyer (80), a father of six, was diagnosed with an asbestos-related tumour last August and died in October, three days after presenting at Milford Hospice, Limerick, for pain management. Mr O'Dwyer, from Shannon, Co Clare, was employed as an electrical maintenance worker at Bord na Mona's briquette factory at Derrinlough, Co Offaly, from 1960 until 1965. His family told the inquest at Limerick Coroner's Court that he said he was exposed to asbestos at the Offaly plant and that he was also exposed to asbestos while working in the UK around the same time. His son-in-law Noel Monahan said Mr O'Dwyer told him he had been exposed to asbestos while "mixing the asbestos by hand and forming it into lagging pipes". A post-mortem examination gave Mr O'Dwyer's cause of death as mesothelioma, a type of cancer which is associated with asbestos exposure. "Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer, and it is a marker for asbestos exposure. It is a dormant killer that manifests itself many years later," said Coroner John McNamara. He wondered whether or not others who worked at the Offaly plant could potentially have been exposed to asbestos. The jury returned a verdict of occupational-related death involving asbestos. In a recommendation, the jury asked the coroner to contact Bord na Mona to investigate if there were any current potential asbestos-related safety issues at the plant. "Nobody knows whether it is or it isn't... they should be contacted, purely to find out," the jury foreman said. "There's an answer needed here," he added. Mr McNamara said the jury's verdict was an "appropriate one" and he will contact Bord na Mona, advising it of Mr O'Dwyer's case. "I will ask them to confirm, if they haven't already, that they have commenced an investigation to confirm there is no further risk to members of the public or employees of Bord na Mona at their plant in Co Offaly," he said. "I'm assuming at this stage that any asbestos-related issue has been removed from the factory... because it is over 50 years ago," Mr McNamara added. Mr O'Dwyer's daughter Dee said that the family had concerns that other workers at the plant may have been exposed to asbestos "and that maybe their families might not be aware". The family paid tribute to their father, saying: "He was a gentleman, quiet, and he could fix anything. He was even fixing windows at his house on the day he went to Milford Hospice, three days before he died," they added. Bord na Mona has been contacted for a comment. A TEACHER has been sent for trial accused of engaging in a sex act with a teenage boy who was a student in her school. The woman (24), who is also accused of sexually exploiting the youth, had a book of evidence served on her at Swords District Court today. Judge Dermot Dempsey sent her forward for trial to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The accused, who claimed she met the boy at an over 18s nightclub, has since lost her job. She is charged with engaging in a sex act with a male child under the age of 17 on February 1 and February 13 last year. The offences are contrary to Section 3(1) of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2006. The accused was initially charged last October after she was arrested by investigating gardai at Dublin Airport when she returned to Ireland on a flight. She was further charged in February with four new offences; two further charges of defilement and two of sexually exploiting a child on February 1 and February 13, 2018. Detective Garda Stephen Hughes previously told the court the teacher replied "I met him at an over 18s nightclub" when she was charged with those new offences. Today, Det Gda Hughes served the book of evidence on the accused. The woman, dressed in a navy hooded jacket over a grey top, with blue jeans and blue and white runners, stepped forward when her case was called. A State solicitor said the book of evidence was ready and had been served, and the DPP was consenting to the case being sent forward to the present sittings of the circuit court. Judge Dempsey gave the woman the formal caution that she must provide details of any alibi she intends to rely on in her trial to the prosecution within 14 days. She nodded when asked if she understood the alibi caution. The judge also ordered the prosecution to furnish the defence with a copy of the accused's garda interview video. The woman was sent forward on existing bail conditions subject to one amendment. Defence solicitor Emer O'Sullivan asked the judge to vary bail to allow her client's passport to be returned to her on a date in July. It would be surrendered again two weeks later, she said. Judge Dempsey made the change to bail after hearing there was no prosecution objection, and also extended free legal aid to cover both junior and senior counsel at the circuit court. Ms O'Sullivan had made this request in light of the potential sentence on conviction. There was no change in the accused's circumstances, she said. After she signed her bail bond, Judge Dempsey asked the accused if she understood the terms. "Yes," she replied, nodding. As part of her bail conditions, previously outlined, the woman has been ordered not to have any contact, either directly or indirectly, with the alleged victim or any witnesses for the duration of the case. She will appear in the circuit court on May 31. The media was again warned that reporting restrictions are in place preventing the identification of the young teacher. Eamon Kelly died after being shot three times in broad daylight while out walking. Two men were remanded in custody today after they were accused of the murder of Eamon Kelly who was killed in a shooting in Dublin 2012. Kenneth Donoghue, 43 with an address at Hazelgrove Estate, Tallaght, Dublin 24, and Darren Murphy, 48, with an address at Rory OConnor House, Dublin 1, were charged with murdering Eamon Kelly at Furry Park Road, Killester, on Dublin's north-side, on December 4, 2012. They also faced with a connected firearms charge for unlawful possession of a Glock pistol with intent to endanger life. Father-of-nine Kelly, 65, was shot a number of times in the chest as he walked towards his home. The two men were arrested today and taken to Raheny Garda station where they were charged. Mr Donoghue appeared before Judge Bryan Smyth at Dublin District Court, this morning. Garda Donal O'Shea gave evidence of arrest charge and caution. A bail application in a murder case must be made before the High Court. Mr Donoghue was remanded in custody and will face his next hearing on May 14 at Cloverhill District Court. Co-defendant Darren Murphy appeared before Judge Geraldine Carthy during the evening sitting of the district court. Detective Garda Basil Grimes told the court Mr Murphy replied, "Ive nothing to say" when the charges were put to him. The accused dressed in a navy t-shirt and trousers sat silently throughout the hearing. He was remanded in custody and will appear at Cloverhill District Court on May 15 next. A book of evidence has yet to be completed before they can be returned for trial. In 2015 Sean Connolly, then aged 35, of Bernard Curtis House, Bluebell, Dublin was jailed for life after he pleaded guilty to the murder of Eamon Kelly. A young Dublin man who crashed into a van driver after avoiding a Garda checkpoint claimed he had been speeding because his girlfriend was in labour, a court has heard. Leon O'Brien (22) was yesterday sentenced to the three years and nine months with the final nine months suspended on strict conditions. At a sentence hearing last December Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that O'Brien was the only occupant of a black Skoda Octavia when he pulled a handbrake turn coming up to a Garda checkpoint and then crashed into a Fingal County Council van. Garda Neil Cotter said that O'Brien fled the vehicle and ran into a nearby caravan park where he was found underneath his father's mobile home with a gash to his hand from broken glass. O'Brien, who also possessed over 1,400 of cannabis, told gardai in interview he was speeding because his girlfriend was in labour. Gda Cotter agreed with Fiona Murphy SC, defending, that O'Brien got news that his girlfriend had given birth while he was in the cells. O'Brien, of Dunne Street Flats, Dublin pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, endangerment and possession of 240g of cannabis worth 1,440 around Donabate, Dublin, on September 27, 2016. He has 75 previous convictions for mostly minor road traffic offences and drugs offences at District Court level. Judge Melanie Greally said the driver of the van suffered severe consequences which led to a significant deterioration in his quality of life. He suffers from chronic pain and his social and personal life has taken a very considerable setback. She acknowledged O'Brien's plea of guilty, his remorse and the insight into his actions. She also accepted that he had a limit history of violence. Judge Greally suspended the final nine months of a three year and nine months sentence on strict conditions including that he remain under supervision from the Probation Service for 12 months. At the hearing last December Gda Cotter told Gerardine Small BL, prosecuting, that he saw the Skoda do a sharp handbrake turn coming up to the checkpoint, before speeding off on the Hearse Road towards Donabate. Witnesses described seeing the car drive on the wrong side of the road on a grass verge. The back of the car remained on the verge, the vehicle lost traction and the front then collided into a Fingal Co Council van. The van driver later told gardai he noticed the male in the Octavia swerving across the road and trying to straighten his car up before the collision. The driver told his passenger to get ready before the impact. He then recalled seeing the male in the other car running off. Gda Cotter said the van driver felt twinges in his back following the crash and was put in a spinal collar when he received medical treatment. The garda said he and colleagues went to the caravan park after some witnesses indicated O Brien had run to that location. Gda Cotter said he found a passport, cannabis pellets and a white t-shirt soaked in blood inside one of the mobile homes. He later discovered O'Brien hiding under the premises. O Brien claimed in interview that he had bought the drugs for 500 and that they were for his personal use. Gda Cotter agreed with Ms Murphy that O'Brien had lost control of the vehicle and that thankfully the van driver and his passenger were able to walk away from the crash. He further agreed that O'Brien was fully co-operative when caught and remorseful for his actions. He accepted that it was fair to say the father-of-two had turned his life around. Joshua Allen, son of celebrity chef Rachel Allen, pictured arriving with his legal counsel at Midleton District Court, Cork. Pic Cork Courts Limited THE teenage son of celebrity TV chef, Rachel Allen, has been remanded for sentencing on drugs charges involving both cannabis and cocaine, some of which was found at the world-renowned Ballymaloe cookery school. Joshua Allen (19), the eldest son of Rachel and Isaac Allen, appeared before Judge Brian O'Callaghan at Cork Circuit Criminal Court on three charges contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977. The charges involved possession and possession for sale or supply of drugs, namely cannabis and cocaine, at the renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School in east Cork on August 30 2018. The three charges were brought under Sections 3 and 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act. The possession for sale or supply charge involved cannabis. Allen also faced a charge of possession of cocaine at Ballymaloe Cookery School. The most serious count involved the charge brought contrary to Section 15(A) of the Misuse of Drugs Act that Joshua Allen, at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Shanagarry, Co Cork, had possession for sale of supply of a controlled drug, namely cannabis, with a value in excess of 13,000. A conviction under Section 15(A) can, in certain circumstances, involve a sentence of 10 years. That charge referred to Ballymaloe Cookery School on August 30 2018. The final charge included possession of cannabis at Ballinamona, Shanagarry, Co Cork on September 5 2018. Allen appeared on signed pleas of guilty to the charges from Midleton District Court. He had signed pleas to six charges before the District Court but, because of duplication, this was reduced to three before the Circuit Criminal Court which cover all the matters involved. The teen, who appeared in court wearing a dark suit and accompanied by a family member, did not speak beyond confirming his guilty pleas to the three charges. Defence counsel Siobhan Lankford SC said her client was accepting responsibility in respect of the matters before the court. She said he had never previously been before the courts. Ms Lankford applied for sentencing to be adjourned until the autumn court sessions. The court was told the teen is currently receiving treatment. The defendant, who turns 20 in November, lives at the Shanagarry address. Inspector Tony O'Sullivan previously confirmed the matter had to be dealt with by Cork Circuit Criminal Court. "The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has indicated that the matter be dealt with on indictment. The DPP has consented to the matter being sent forward on a signed plea of guilty. That is what is happening," Inspector O'Sullivan said. Judge O'Callaghan granted the adjournment application and set sentencing for November 8 next. The court was told that expert reports would be required to assist with sentencing. A Probation an Welfare Service (PWS) report has been ordered. Gardai stressed they had no objection to the defendant being remanded on continuing bail. Allen must sign on at Midleton Garda Station three times each week. The teen previously surrendered his passport and was required to undertake not to apply for new travel documents. Under his bail conditions, the defendant must also remain in the jurisdiction and to continue to reside at Ballinamona, Shanagarry. The teen is the grandson of Darina Allen and the great-grandson of the late Myrtle Allen, founder of the Ballymaloe cookery empire in east Cork. He was arrested last September after the controlled delivery of a parcel containing the cannabis to an address in east Cork. Officials at the Portlaoise Mail Centre had become very suspicious of the parcel which bore a US postmark and was stamped 'clothing'. However, a cursory inspection of the parcel determined it did not contain clothing. Joshua Allen was arrested when the parcel was subject to a controlled delivery to an address in east Cork under Garda surveillance. He was questioned at Cobh Garda Station under drugs regulations before being released without charge. A file on the matter was later submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). After his arrest, Joshua's parents, Rachel and Isaac, issued a statement which confirmed their son's detention. The TV chef and face of the Ballymaloe House cookery franchise admitted she was "absolutely devastated" by what had happened. "He (Joshua) has been arrested on suspicion of possession of drugs (marijuana) with intent to supply them to others," a statement by Rachel and Isaac said. "He co-operated fully with the Gardai." "We are absolutely devastated at this turn of events." "We would ask that the legal process would be allowed to proceed to deal with this matter, without interference, and that we would be allowed to deal with this, like any other parents, in a similar position." The family said they would not be making any further comment. The teen was originally detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act, 1996. Joshua Allen's arrest came just three months after the death of Ballymaloe founder and his great grandmother, Myrtle Allen. Myrtle had helped establish Ballymaloe as one of Ireland's preeminent food brands. Joshua's grandmother, Darina Allen, was the public face of Ballymaloe for many years before his mother, Rachel, fronted a number of successful TV cookery shows and became the modern 'face' of the world-renowned Ballymaloe franchise. Rachel Allen has also authored a number of best-selling cookery books and now ranks as a major culinary figure in both the UK and US. Ballymaloe, under Myrtle Allen, was one of the first Irish restaurants to achieve a prestigious Michelin star. The Shanagarry facility now ranks as one of the most popular cookery schools in Europe, training chefs for both European and North American kitchens. Rachel Allen's name has also been used to 'front' a number of Irish restaurant ventures, mostly recently 'Rachel's' on Washington Street in Cork. However, despite a lavish launch just three years ago, the restaurant has since been rebranded and targetted at a more mid-stream clientele. A DUP councillor has written to party officers to express his "deep concern" at the decision to select an openly gay candidate to run in the Northern Ireland local elections. A DUP councillor has written to party officers to express his "deep concern" at the decision to select an openly gay candidate to run in the Northern Ireland local elections. Alison Bennington became the DUP's first openly gay candidate to be elected when she won one of 14 DUP seats onto Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council last Friday. In a letter from DUP councillor John Finlay to party officers, published by journalist Patricia Devlin, the Ballymoney representative said the party's founder Ian Paisley would be "turning in his grave" if he knew about the decision. Expand Close Alison Bennington. Photo: PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Alison Bennington. Photo: PA He said he was "very upset" at the way in which Ms Bennington was selected, as many within the party were "totally unaware" of the decision until it was announced at the launch of the DUP's local government manifesto. Mr Finlay said: "The candidate in question, Ms Alison Bennington, is openly gay. She has, apparently, previously indicated that she is in favour of same-sex marriage through a post on her Facebook page. "This sends out, at best, confusing signals to our support base which has consistently welcomed our strong stand on LGBT issues. "Indeed, the DUP is different from all other political parties, apart from the much smaller TUV, in its adherence to family values. "That has drawn support from across the community divide, but that support is clearly now being placed in jeopardy by the foolish decision in selecting Alison Bennington." Mr Finlay goes on to ask party officers if Ms Bennington now agrees with party policy on same-sex marriage. He added: "It seems clear to me that we will lose votes on May 2 as a result of the Bennington decision. Our traditional support base cannot be taken for granted. I can feel the palpable sense of anger on the doorsteps and in various messages I have been receiving. "I am particularly disappointed that party officers who are committed Christians have either supported Ms Bennington's candidature or remained ominously silent. I think some soul-searching is now required." Mr Finlay said that while he accepted society's morals are changing the DUP needs to "continue to swim against the secular and godless tide." He added: "That has always been the DUP's strength, and we compromise on these matters at our peril. Dr Paisley must be turning in his grave." The DUP has not commented on the matter. Inconsistencies in the level of training and guidance provided to postgraduate research students who teach undergraduates at Dublin City University (DCU), have been highlighted in a new quality report card on the institution. Practice varies depending on individual programme chairpersons and module co-ordinators, according to a report carried out for the higher education regulatory watchdog, Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI). DCU is the first Irish university to undergo QQIs CINNTE review of the effectiveness of quality assurance procedures, which was conducted by an independent panel of national and international experts. The review team recognised instances of good practice and also recommendations on areas for improvement. Teaching, learning and assessment was one focus of the review, which also covered areas such as governance, strategic planning, risk management and the student voice. Another concern raised under teaching and learning heading was a "wide variation" between programme and modules in areas such as feedback on performance or where students should expect to go to discuss overall academic progress. It stated that the university appeared to have no overarching policy on this and arrangements depended on faculties and schools, but more commonly on individual programmes. While DCU was seen to have well-developed overarching quality assurance policies that were rigorously implemented and managed at university level, it was less vigilant in ensuring that its faculties and schools were providing a higher quality learning experience on matters delegated to them in the routine delivery of programmes. "There seemed to be too many features which were left to the discretion of individual staff, resulting in an uneven pattern of delivery, the report states. The review notes that while variations in delivery were both necessary and acceptable depending on different disciplines, all students should expect a consistent minimum provision. Areas for which DCU received praise included its student internship programme, access to online education, student support services and how it had incorporated other colleges in recent years. Similar reports on Maynooth University and NUI Galway will follow later this year, while there were reports last year on the institutes of technology in Letterkenny and Sligo. QQI CEO Padraig Walsh said the reviews were a rigorous and gave student confidence in the quality of the education they are receiving. "The evidence to date, and contained in todays DCU CINNTE Review Report, shows that our institutions are committed to delivering real impact for their students through their teaching and learning activities," he said DCU president Professor Brian MacCraith said the university was looking forward to giving extensive consideration to the findings, and developing a clear action plan to address its recommendations. Professor Marijk van der Wende of Utrecht University, who chaired the review team, said they were as impressed with DCUs success in shaping policies that deliver on opportunities for an increasingly diverse student community and with the way in which its leadership included new partners into its mission and operations through the incorporation process. It follows Juventus and Real Madrid whose officials hold the top two positions in the ECA being eliminated in the Champions League by Ajax. Though Ajax is a four-time European champion, it had to advance through three preliminary rounds last August as runner-up in the mid-ranked Netherlands league last season. Completing the SUSI application can be a daunting task. The application itself is reasonably straightforward, however it is important applicants take care to complete all sections accurately in order to avoid any confusion or delays in payment. The first step is to use the eligibility reckoner on the SUSI website, which gives potential applicants an excellent indication of whether they are likely to be successful. Next, applicants should spend some time watching the information videos on the website. All applicants must create an account by registering with SUSI before they begin making their application. Applicants need their PPS number. They must also create a six digit pin code, which, along with a username and password, will be needed to log into their account from then on. Applicants can submit details and save their work and log out at any time. The application has six sections and there are PDF guides for each section on the SUSI website. By reading these, applicants will be fully aware of what information is required and can ensure they have that information ready to go before they begin. The first section is personal details. Next, they will be asked about their nationality and residency status. When completing the third section on educational history, applicants are asked: "Have you accepted a place on a course from 2019/2020?" This question can confuse some school-leavers as they have not yet been offered a place, but do intend to accept a place at third level. School-leavers who are making a CAO application should list their first preference course here. The next two sections request information on the applicant's family and the final section is for reckonable income. It is essential that the applicant complete this section with a parent, guardian or an adult who has knowledge of the household's income. Applicants should review the information entered and then press send. A confirmation email should be received within 24 hours; if not, they should log in and check they have completed the application correctly. Some applicants will receive a personalised checklist of supporting documentation that will be required by SUSI. It's essential to provide these documents by the day requested to ensure a decision on your grant is made in good time. Photocopies are sufficient. Applicants should use the 'change of mind' period to ensure that they have indicated on CAO their form they are applying for the SUSI grant. Q I have been working hard to try and stay in honours maths. My teacher has suggested I drop to ordinary level, but I dont want to because of the bonus points. What should I do? A This comes up constantly at this time of year. It can be a very difficult decision, especially when you have been working so hard. There are a number of things to consider. Your teacher wants the best for you and is only suggesting changing levels at this stage because he/she honestly believes it is in your best interests. However, your teacher can never be 100pc sure of how much effort and work you have put in; only you know that. If this subject is taking up all your time and effort, and you are still failing, then, yes, you should probably drop. If, on honest reflection, you know you could work harder and you are close to a passing grade, then perhaps you should remain and try and achieve this. There is, however, very little time left to make large leaps in grades. Be careful of putting too much time into honours maths at the expense of other subjects. You must balance your workload as well as your stress over the coming weeks. Yes, you may get the 25 bonus points, but if you drop a grade across all other subjects as a result of diverting your efforts, any gains will be negated. Aoife Walsh is a guidance counsellor at Malahide Community School, Co Dublin If you have a query, email Aoife at aoifewalsh@independent.ie; Twitter @edguidance. MEDICAL students with high levels of burnout have five times higher risk of depression, according to new research by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). Burnout has previously been identified as a common problem among medical students, but one of the key findings of this study is how it increases significantly as they progress from early years of learning at college to their hospital training. About 25pc of students showed high levels of burnout before starting hospital training, but it rose to 35pc in their clinical years as they got closer to graduation and workload increased ahead of final exams. And the risk of depression was 66pc in students with high levels of burnout, five times higher than 13pc in those with low levels, according to the study published in the current edition of the British Medical Journal, BMJ Open. Among its recommendation is urgent recognition of the need to rethink the psychological pressures of health professions education. Some 55pc of participants said they would use college welfare services if they had challenges with their mental health, and 33pc said they would seek help elsewhere. But 11pc said they would not seek help, and even though some students in that cohort had the highest burnout scores. The report notes previous research that medical students in particular have a tendency to avoid discussing mental health for fear of the associated stigma and the concern that the disclosure will affect their future careers. Dr Alice McGarvey, one of the authors of the study and RCSI Senior Lecturer in Anatomy said it was "worrisome" that the findings of those who were most at risk were less likely to seek help. The study was undertaken on the initiative of Dr Orla Fitzpatrick, a student in the college at the time, and who is currently completing her internship. Dr Fitzpatrick, who is its lead author, said their research method allowed them to link levels of burnout directly to risk of depression. She said the high levels of burnout and depression pointed to an urgent need to rethink the psychological pressures of health professions education and, according to study, RCSI has instituted changes on specific areas of the learning experience that students reported as stressful. In its findings the report states that here are no grounds for interventions targeting only at those at high risk, but also look at encouraging students to aces support services when needed. The research team gathered data from almost 300 medical students in both preclinical and clinical years at RCSI. The non-denominational Educate Together body is in talks about a joint patronage role in two Dublin second-level schools. Discussions are ongoing between Educate Together and City of Dublin Education and Training Board (CDETB) about St Kevin's College, Crumlin, Dublin 12, as well as Cabra Community College. The St Kevin's initiative is in direct response to pressure from parents in neighbouring Dublin 8 for more Educate Together second-level places. Campaigners met Education Minister Joe McHugh in February, and he has now written to them advising of a potential Educate Together role in Dublin 12 and Dublin 7. The south city Dublin 2-4-6-8 zone has seen intense pressure for Educate Together provision, which, at second-level, was only partially satisfied by the opening of its Sandymount Park secondary school last September. Educate Together will be in the running for a new 1,000-place second-level school in Harold's Cross, Dublin 6, due to open in 2020. But even if it succeeds, Dublin 8 parents fear it will not have enough capacity for their children. There are also plans for a 600-pupil school in Dublin 2-4 in 2021. St Kevin's has about 200 pupils and is multi-denominational. A partnership with Educate Together would mean some ethos changes. Gardai are investigating the alleged rape of a female student from the US in Connemara over the bank holiday weekend. It is understood the incident allegedly took place at the rear of a public house in Tullycross, Co Galway, on Sunday morning. The woman is 21 years of age. In a statement, Gardai said they are following a number of lines of inquiry. "Gardai in Clifden are investigating an alleged sexual assault on a female in the village of Tully Cross, Co Galway, in the early hours of Sunday morning," a spokesperson said. "No arrests have been made to date, investigating gardai are however following a number of lines of enquiry. "Owing to the nature of the incident we will not be commenting further at this time." It is understood that the area where the alleged incident has taken place has been examined by gardai. The Connemara Mussel Festival was taking place over the weekend when the rape is alleged to have taken place. A significant haul of grenades and drugs has been seized by gardai as a result of an intelligence gathering operation. The find was made in a farm building, which officers believe was being used as a warehouse by a major Dublin drugs trafficking gang. A search of the building at Gormanston, Co Meath, was continuing tonight while an Army bomb disposal team was called in to examine the grenades. It is understood that cannabis with a street value of at least 3m as well as a quantity of cocaine were discovered hidden behind walls in the building. But the final estimate of the amount of drugs discovered has not yet been determine as the extensive search has not been completed. The haul is thought to have been smuggled into the country from the UK. Gardai say that the drugs were intended for distribution and sale throughout the Dublin region. They believe the grenades had been included with the haul as a "sweetener". Officers say the building was being used as a store by a gang based in north Dublin and with links to Liverpool. The traffickers set up their warehouse after leasing a farm and buildings from the unsuspecting owner. The search followed a detailed investigation by gardai from the Meath division and Ballymun district in north Dublin. A senior officer said; "This is a big blow to a very active drugs gang. The discovery of the grenades adds a very sinister element to the find and underlines what can become available to drug dealing gangs as they compete with rivals for territory in turf wars". It is the latest in a series of major drug seizures by gardai over the past year and a half. Garda Commissioner Drew Harris congratulated his members on the number of significant seizures they had made recently when he spoke at the annual conference of the Association of Garda Superintendents in Naas this afternoon. He said the fight against drugs had "really picked up pace" in the past 18 months with the co-operation of the Garda's international partners in the UK and the US and with the help of Europol. "There's hardly a week goes by that we don't have seizures, both nationally and internationally. "We are very aware that we have pretty sophisticated crime gangs. They have an international footing and we have to go international if we're going to combat them." Commissioner Harris added. The annual cost of care for elderly and the disabled is to double to 4.5bn within three decades, presenting the State with another economic timebomb. While the pressure on pensions from an ageing population is well documented, the cost of care is also going to soar. Economist Jim Power believes the Government is "failing to prepare" for the full cost of providing this care. He warns Ireland's population is aging so rapidly over the next five years that the country will witness a shortage of nursing homes. "Caring for older people is the biggest economic issue this country faces," he said. "The implications on State spending on pensions and caring is absolutely inevitable. "But the current tax base isn't sufficient to fund that and politicians are not addressing it," he added. "We need to start increasing tax and now. We pay around 21bn in income tax right now, so that needs to rise by 10pc per annum, to pay for care into the future." He said that the "corporate world has to stand up" and pay more taxes to provide services such as caring for an ageing population. The economist estimates that, if the over-75s section of our population continues to increase, by 2050 the State will be paying double the 2.2bn a year cost. The payments are being funnelled into homecare packages, costing around 408m annually, the Fair Deal, costing around 970m and care in the home, around 890m. "I estimate that between now and 2050, the number of over-75s will increase from 262,000 to 582,000 and it could be higher, that's a conservative estimation," Mr Power said. "At the moment, just under 30,000 people are looked after by the Fair Deal in nursing homes, and a further 53,000 are receiving home care packages. Currently, the total cost is around 2.2bn on care between the Fair Deal, homecare and what carers are paid. "And if my population projections are correct, we're going to see that figure double by 2050." He said a shortage of nursing home places would be coupled by more applications for home care packages. That will inevitably equate to more pressure on State coffers. Catherine Cox, from Family Carers Ireland, said: "While I don't disagree with Jim Power on the funding issue he puts forward, there are other models that could be considered too, including social insurance, private insurance and co-payment models." She added: "Carers can no longer be expected to fill the deficits of a poorly configured health and social care system - the care must be shared between the State and families." Sean Moynihan, from Alone, a charity for older people, said: "The Government needs to prepare now for our ageing population. In the next 12 years, the population of people over 60 will increase by more than 50pc. "We don't yet have the resources in place to cope with this huge increase in numbers." The Department of Finance said it had "undertaken extensive analysis in relation to population ageing". "There are currently approximately five persons of working age for each person aged 65 and over. By 2050, the equivalent figure will be just over two. A range of policy reforms, such as increases in the State pension age, have been implemented to mitigate the costs associated with the demographic change in our population." Employing older workers could "help mitigate the impact of population ageing on the public finances", it added, but "additional measures" will also be necessary in the future. What is the Carer's Allowance? Carer's Allowance is a payment made by the Department of Social Affairs which is means tested for all applicants, based on their total household income. The test takes into account the incomes of an applicant and their spouse and any property they own, aside from the home they reside in. Any assets that can raise money or provide an income are also taken into account when determining whether or not someone qualifies for it. Occupational pensions or pension benefits from another country are also measured. A person aged under 66 and caring for one person can receive a maximum of 214 a week. Someone who is 66 or over and looking after one person can receive a maximum of 252. A person aged 66 and over and caring for two people can qualify for a maximum of 378 a week. Isolating: Margaret Healy, who gave up her job in childcare to care for her mother Susan Fagan. Photo: Ray Ryan A woman who looks after her elderly mother has told how the process of applying for Carer's Allowance made her feel like she was "begging for this money". Margaret Healy (56), from Ballygar, Co Galway, said she never thought twice about giving up her career in childcare to care full-time for her mother Susan Fagan (89), who has Alzheimer's. However, she is now on less than half her old salary and struggles to find respite care to allow her to have a break. "I remembered how mum cared for my siblings and I growing up, how she was there for me when I had my four children. "I always promised mum I'd never put her in a care home, she hated the idea, so I did what I felt was right for her, I knew she'd be happier at home," she explained. Margaret, who is married to a retired garda, was means-tested for Carer's Allowance. However, she said none of the family's outgoings was taken into account - including their 800-a-month mortgage repayments and the cost of putting their son through college. "My income went down by more than half, yet I was caring round the clock," Margaret said. "You feel like you're begging for this money when, in fact, carers like me are saving the State billions of euro a year by not placing our loved ones into nursing homes or taking up hospital beds. "You go through that fear where you half think it'll be refused, even though you're doing a good thing, a selfless thing, for your loved one, who needs care. "I think the means-testing of carers in this situation is totally wrong. Carers have mortgages or rent to pay, bills, children to bring up and it's so hard living off such a small amount and knowing you can't even have much in the bank, or you'll be cut down. "And your partner's salary or pension, or any property you have, is also counted against your Carer's Allowance," she said. She said being a carer can be a "very isolating life". "It's hard also because I can't socialise as much as I'd like. People say they'll visit and they don't. You never see anyone unless you go to them, they feel they're intruding. They aren't." She said her mother had been on a waiting list for a day centre in Roscommon for two years. She has been approved for two weeks' respite care a year. "I feel it would make more sense for the HSE to send someone to care for her at home, where she's happy. "I will take the breaks because I desperately need them but I know when I come home I'll have to calm mum and get her into a routine again at home. "The Government could save more money by making it more viable to care for loved ones at home and to enable carers to still work and earn what they can. "They could assist more carers with home help and pay carers a proper living wage to recognise the work and how much we save the healthcare system." A HSE spokesperson said one to two weeks per year was the "normal level of respite provided". "Home support is a finite resource in terms of available budget ... and would be unable to encompass all the respite currently being provided in Community Nursing Units." Option: Residents of nursing homes can opt to defer the Fair Deal payments until after their death. Stock picture More than 9.3m is now overdue in payments to the Exchequer from the estates of deceased nursing home residents under the Fair Deal scheme, new figures reveal. The payments are due for deceased residents who deferred most of the cost of their care until after their death. The Revenue Commissioners confirmed the money was due more than a year ago, according to the rules of the Fair Deal scheme. Delays in the payments, due to probate and other issues, led to 382,680 in interest being levied last year. The Exchequer received 18m from the estates of deceased Fair Deal residents in 2017 and 21.9m last year as house prices improved. The delays in recovering the payments come as the 1bn Fair Deal scheme is under pressure this year, with more than 23,000 availing of the subsidy for nursing home care. Meanwhile, nursing homes have until the end of the year to ensure the contracts presented to residents or their representatives before taking up residence are clear, simply written and without any clauses which allow additional charges to be levied later without agreement. Under the new legally binding guidelines from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), residents must be told which extra charges are mandatory or optional. The move to clean up contracts will mean that private nursing homes will have to ensure they are understandable. Commenting on the new guidelines Nursing Homes Ireland, which represents private nursing homes, said about 8,000 residents entered 580 nursing homes every year and under the Health Act 2007 they must agree to a contract. "Contracts within every nursing home - HSE, private and voluntary - are required by regulation and are subject to independent oversight and scrutiny by the independent health regulator, the Health Information and Quality Authority. "Nursing homes proactively engage with prospective residents and their families at enquiry stage in an open and transparent manner regarding their contract for care. "Our members are committed to a process of engagement, openness and transparency to provide a thorough understanding of the contract and ensure their decision is informed. "Such engagement supports both the nursing home and the resident in establishing and maintaining a good relationship. We engaged with the CCPC to inform development of the guidelines and will consider them with a view to briefing our members with regard to supporting residents during a difficult and often stressful time in transitioning to nursing home care." Referring to the additional top-up fees charged by some private nursing homes, the organisation said they were for services which were not provided for in Fair Deal payments. "Residents are supported by personalised care plans that are stipulated within their contracts to encompass their needs, preferences and interests," it said. The partner of murdered journalist Lyra McKee has described the moments after her partner was shot dead in Derry last month. Sara Canning also hit out at those responsible for the murder describing them "a scourge on their communities". They're grooming young men and women - they're no better, they speak out about paedophile gangs - theyre no better than paedophiles. Sara Canning, partner of murdered journalist Lyra Mckee, explains her fury towards the mealy mouthed apologies by Saoradh and the New IRA pic.twitter.com/fthjjrp4Nu Channel 4 News (@Channel4News) May 8, 2019 In an interview with Channel 4, Ms Canning said she and Lyra had been observing the rioting in Derry's Creggan estate, just behind police lines, for a total of eight minutes. She said Lyra had "gone into reporting mode". She said she had at first thought Lyra had tripped over her own feet when she fell to the ground. "I noticed that she had a head wound and I put my hand to it and I started screaming for help." The so-called new IRA claimed responsibility offering it's "full and sincere apologies" to family and friends of the reporter. Expand Close Lyra McKee's partner Sara Canning is hugged by President Michael D Higgins. Photo: PAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lyra McKee's partner Sara Canning is hugged by President Michael D Higgins. Photo: PAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images Ms Canning described the apology as "mealy mouthed". She said they had taken away the life of someone who had made Derry their home, who loved it and was "chomping a the bit" to make a difference. "You cant apologise for killing someone," she said. "You cant call it an accidental shooting. You fire a gun at a crowd, thats not an accidental shooting. Youre aiming to shoot someone. I mean, its ridiculous. It was so indiscriminate. There was no regard for human life. Why are we protecting that? And if it is your child, I would be ashamed to have a child that had done that. Id be ashamed. "Theyre not defending anyone. Theyre literally a scourge on their communities. Theyre a scourge. They are a scourge. "What I would say is, and this might be heavy-handed, and people might speak out against it or whatever. But I dont really care. "They are grooming young men and women. Theyre no better, they speak out about paedophile gangs, but theyre no better than paedophiles. Expand Close Comfort: Lyra McKee's partner Sara Canning receives a warm hug yesterday. Photo: Gerry Mooney / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Comfort: Lyra McKee's partner Sara Canning receives a warm hug yesterday. Photo: Gerry Mooney "They literally take young people who are disenfranchised at the best of times, who are living in poverty, who dont see a future for themselves in Northern Ireland because there is literally very little here for them. And they tell them that the way forward is a gun in their hand. The way forward is never a gun in your hand. During Lyra's funeral, Sara said she saw red at some of those in attendance at the service in St Anne's Cathedral. She said she urged Taoiseach Leo Varadkar "as a world leader" to help facilitate talks to restore power sharing in Northern Ireland. "Karen Bradley offered her condolences and I accepted them graciously. And I wasnt rude. But I did tell her that she was doing a pretty terrible job as the Secretary of State. Her lack of knowledge around Northern Ireland was appalling. She needed to go and educate herself. How on earth she had taken a job where she had no knowledge of the area. "She was very gracious I have to say. She nodded and she agreed with me that she had said things that were completely misguided and that shes gone and educated herself. "As a Derry woman to offer your condolences on Lyra when you have turned around and said that soldiers who indiscriminately opened fire in the Bogside on Bloody Sunday were doing their job in a dignified manner. I said they are no different to the thug that opened fire in Creggan on Holy Thursday and shot Lyra. Karen Bradley faced calls to quit after she told the Commons killings carried out by the police and military during the Troubles were not crimes, rather actions of people "fulfilling their duties in a dignified and appropriate way". She later apologised saying her remarks were wrong and "insensitive". Ms Canning said the message she left with the Prime Minister was for her government to govern in Northern Ireland and for Theresa May to say issues such as same-sex marriage and abortion law reform were for Stormont to introduce was "out of order" given the collapse of the institutions. "It's been shown we cant work together so the British government has to be our government. And they have to be our voice and they have to do better. "Weve been left adrift. Theres people missing out on operations and theres schools missing out on funding. Theres head teachers having to go out and buy toilet roll for their primary schools, because they dont have the funds to do that. Lyra had been planning a romantic break in American and had worked out an "elaborate" proposal at a lake house in Central Park. She had planned it with a friend. Sara said Lyra was great at planning and she had gone into the minutest of detail putting her "heart and soul" into the planning. She added: "Its been almost three weeks. Ive not come to terms with it. I still expect to hear from her every morning. I expect to wake up beside her, and I dont." Police are investigating and have made a number of arrests in connection with the killing of Lyra McKee. They said the response from the community was positive and they have agreed to provide anonymity to those who come forward with information. A UK Government spokesman said: "The Government supports the extension of marriage equality right across the United Kingdom, including for the people of Northern Ireland. "However, we continue to believe that the best outcome is for a restored Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive to take forward this as a devolved issue as a matter of priority. "We are absolutely focused on the restoration of devolved government through the ongoing process of talks." The Northern Ireland Office has been approached for a response. All smiles: Declan and Marie Ronan with their six-year-old daughter Tina. Photo: Ray Ryan The family of a six-year-old girl unable to walk, talk or eat unaided are fundraising to adapt their home. Tina Ronan, from Milltown, Tuam, Co Galway, has a severe developmental delay, chorea disease and epilepsy. But her father Declan Ronan (45) said the schoolgirl "has a perfect mind" and "her smile lights up my day". Mr Ronan and wife Marie are receiving a portion of the funding to adapt the house from Galway County Council, but are asking the public to assist. "Tina was born in a natural birth and everything from that day until she was around 10 months old seemed perfect," Mr Ronan said. "There were no complications for Tina in any way. "She was passing all of the early baby tests, but by the time she was 10 months old, alarm bells started slowly going off. "People would say, 'it's a wonder Tina isn't sitting up or walking yet'. "They'd ask how long had she been crawling for," he added. "And I'd say she isn't. Then others would ask how old were our other two older children when they'd crawled and walked. "But it had been years earlier when our other daughters had been that age, so really we didn't remember." Read More Tina was admitted to University Hospital Galway when she was a year old after suffering multiple seizures. She was later diagnosed with epilepsy, but within six months the child was having more seizures. "They upped the dose of drugs for the epilepsy and thank God they brought the seizures down," Mr Ronan said. "After six to eight months, they diagnosed my daughter with chorea [a neurological disorder], and they gave her a total of 14 different medicines in two years. "If Tina starts firing her hands round, doctors thought it might be her brain telling her hands to reach for something. "But the signal isn't going all the way. "But they did a scan and said her brain is perfect. "So the only conclusion is that this burst of energy is a movement disorder." Tina's older sisters Helena (23) and Rebecca (21) came up with the plan to raise funds in order to help adapt the family home. The changes will include a disability-friendly bedroom with a hoist, a wetroom and making the entire home wheelchair accessible. They have already received a 30,000 grant from Galway County Council. But the family say that they need to raise around 20,000 more to help to complete the project. Tina attends St Oliver's special school in Tuam, and both her parents devote their lives to caring for her. For more information, visit gofundme.com/gpf99- support-for-tina Read More WATCH MORE: Family Carers Ireland are available on Freephone Careline number for family carers 1800 240724. Carers can call any time for information, advice or just a listening ear. Also carers can access the website www.familycarers.ie for information. Were seeing more and more private equity firms looking toward the health care arena, Melvin said. It makes sense, given how big a part of the economy health care is and the fact that it will likely only grow as baby boomers age, she said. Theres also money to be made, particularly in services such as labs and imaging, both of which DuPage offers to patients. AN ONLINE fundraiser has been launched to raise 4 million for major repair works at Saint Patrick's Cathedral. The 'Sponsor A Slate' appeal is asking the public to become "part of the living history" of the landmark Dublin building by donating towards restoration works of the roof. The building, which attracts more than 600,000 visitors annually, is 828 years old and the team behind the appeal say "the high roof replacement will be the most significant conservation project undertaken by the Cathedral since the Guinness restoration 150 years ago, during which Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness funded a full-scale restoration of the building." They said in a statement on their website: "The Cathedrals roof is in urgent need of repair. We need to raise 9 million to facilitate this work. "Can you help us? You can become a part of the living history of Saint Patricks Cathedral by sponsoring a slate for the roof. "This year we are launching a large-scale conservation programme to secure the future of the building by addressing major concerns about the roof. "The Cathedral will remain open for worship and visitors throughout the conservation project. "This will be one of the biggest conservation projects undertaken in Ireland and is estimated to cost 9 million. "The Cathedral has already raised 5 million and is appealing to the public to become involved in this exciting chapter in the Cathedrals history by sponsoring the project." There are three categories for donors listed online, which have different benefits depending on how much you give. Bronze 50 - sponsor quarter of a slate and receive: A mention on the weekly sponsors post on Saint Patrick's Cathedral social media. Silver 250 - sponsor a slate for the roof and receive: A mention on the weekly sponsors post on Saint Patrick's Cathedral social media. A name in the "book of thanks", which is displayed in the Cathedral. A Certificate of thanks. Gold 1000+ - become a 'keystone' of the roof works: Anyone interested in becoming a gold donor s urged to contact the Cathedral's Administrator, Gavan Woods. For more information or to donate, please visit https://www.stpatrickscathedral.ie/support-us/ Former Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams, arrives at Laganside Court in Belfast to give evidence as the inquest continues into the series of incidents between 9 and 11 August 1971, in which the 1st Battalion, Parachute Regiment killed eleven civilians in Ballymurphy, Belfast. Liam McBurney/PA Wire Gerry Adams has repeated his denial that he was a member of the IRA, but said he will never disassociate himself from the organisation. The former Sinn Fein president was giving evidence to a fresh inquest into the killing of 10 people in the Ballymurphy area of Belfast in 1971. The episode dubbed the Ballymurphy massacre started on August 9 as the British Army moved into republican strongholds to arrest IRA suspects after the introduction by the Stormont administration of the controversial policy of internment without trial. A new inquest at Belfast Coroners Court is examining the deaths of 10 civilians, including a Catholic priest and a mother of eight, between August 9 and 11. Claims that IRA gunmen were in the area at the time have been disputed during the inquest hearings. David Heraghty, counsel for coroner Siobhan Keegan, put to the Louth TD that he was a senior member of the IRA in the area at the time. Mr Adams responded: I was not a member of the IRA, I have never disassociated myself from the IRA and I never will until the day I die. I understand that victims of the IRA wont like what I am saying I deeply regret there was a war. Expand Close Former Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams arrives at Laganside Court in Belfast to give evidence as the inquest continues into the series of incidents between 9 and 11 August 1971, in which the 1st Battalion, Parachute Regiment killed eleven civilians in Ballymurphy, Belfast. Liam McBurney/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Former Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams arrives at Laganside Court in Belfast to give evidence as the inquest continues into the series of incidents between 9 and 11 August 1971, in which the 1st Battalion, Parachute Regiment killed eleven civilians in Ballymurphy, Belfast. Liam McBurney/PA Wire He praised the maturity of the IRA for embracing the peace process and fading away. A barrister for the Ministry of Defence pressed Mr Adams, suggesting he was sworn into D Company of the IRA in 1966. Mr Adams responded: Thats not correct. The barrister put to Mr Adams that he was commander of the IRA in the Ballymurphy area in November 1969. Mr Adams responded: Thats not correct. I gave a full answer to this question when it was put to me by Mr Heraghty. Earlier in the hearing, Mr Adams detailed how, during the mid to late 1960s, he was involved with republicanism, describing himself as an organiser and a member of Sinn Fein. The Provisional IRA is believed to have been founded in 1969, and went on to become the dominant force in violent Irish republicanism until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Mr Adams told the inquest that in 1969 he was in the minority as not having been involved with the military wing of republicanism. I had the distinction of having been active since the mid 1960s and having been involved in the type of agitated activity. I continued with that, he told the inquest. The military tendency within republicanism was the dominant tendency. He described Ballymurphy in 1971 as being under a heavy and aggressive occupation by the British Army and claimed CS gas and rubber bullets were frequently deployed against residents. The British government opted for the military option and reneged on its political responsibilities, and handed it over to the generals, he told the inquest. Generals did what generals do. Individual soldiers were ordered to pacify, subdue and kill the enemy, and the enemy in this case were the decent people of Ballymurphy. It is hardly surprising that the Provisional IRA came into the ascendancy fairly quickly. Mr Adams said he did not witness any of the deaths despite his home being in Divismore Park. He said at that time he rarely slept at his family home following an incident when masked men called at the front and side doors looking for him, when he was staying with a friend in nearby Springhill Crescent. Mr Adams said his father and brother Liam were interned on August 9, and soldiers had asked for him. Asked whether the IRA had attacked the Army on August 9, Mr Adams told the inquest he did not have direct knowledge of the Provisional IRAs actions, but he understood it ordered no engagement with the British Army that day. He said there had been a rumour in the area that a gunman from the Official IRA had fired on the Henry Taggart Memorial Hall where the Army was based, but added that the bush telegraph in those days was sometimes accurate and sometimes inaccurate. He said it had been a sensible decision by the Provisional IRA not to engage the British Army, for the safety of the community and safety of the volunteers. The inquest continues. A fireman has been arrested on suspicion of drink driving while on duty behind the wheel of a fire engine. The driver of the emergency vehicle is understood to have been stopped while returning from an emergency incident and failed a breath test at the side of the road on Friday as gardai clamped down on road offences over the bank holiday weekend. He was then arrested on suspicion of drink driving and faces a fine of 200 and a three-month disqualification from driving. But he could also face disciplinary action at the station where he works. Independent.ie has learned that the station where the emergency worker is based is not in Dublin. A fire service spokesperson confirmed the incident and said the matter is under investigation and that gardai were involved. The spokesperson said the fire service would take the appropriate action when the investigation was fully completed. A garda spokeswoman also confirmed the incident and said a fixed penalty notice would be issued to the person involved. "A person was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence on May 5 while driving a fire truck. A fixed penalty notice will be issued in relation to the matter," she explained. New drink driving laws that came into effect in October last year state that anyone caught with a blood alcohol concentration level between 50mg and 80mg will receive an automatic three month disqualification and a 200 fine. After the bank holiday weekend gardai confirmed that at a checkpoint on the N81 in Tallaght on Monday 250 drivers were tested and four were arrested for driving while intoxicated. Two were arrested for drink driving, while the other two were arrested for suspected driving while under the influence of drugs. A review of the running of Waterford hospital mortuary has been ordered by Health Minister Simon Harris. The mortuary has been at the centre of controversy for the last two weeks after pathologists warned of cramped conditions and lack of proper refrigeration facilities, forcing some deceased bodies to be placed in the corridor where they were at risk of leaking. Mr Harris said today he will now draw up terms of reference for a review of the operation of the mortuary. A modular prefab refrigerated building is to arrive on site on Friday to provide more temporary mortuary space. He told the Dail: "I want to take a couple of days to get this right and a couple of days in relation to terms of reference and who should carry out the review." Taoiseach Leo Varadkar apologised last week for his comments on the doctors' claims which he appeared to question. He admitted he "got it wrong". The State Pathologists office has already said it will no longer be making referrals to the mortuary for post mortem. It's a rare day when our Government makes a decision that will intrinsically alter the fabric of society for generations to come. Yes, ministers influence which towns get a new hospital, school or train station - but not very often do they actively reach inside the privacy of your home. The National Broadband Plan (NBP) was first announced seven years ago. It will be another seven before the final house is connected to high-speed internet. Back in 2012, the Fine Gael-Labour coalition estimated the costs at between 335m and 500m. Today, the State values the need for rural broadband at 2.97bn. That figure was reached after 880 hours of dialogue with three bidders, two of whom dropped out during tendering. What's left behind is a document described by one official as "1,500 pages of torture". The detail of how we got here and what happens next is likely to be quickly lost in the political din. Fine Gael, as the main government party, is caught between boasting about finally getting the NBP moving and defending the massive cost for taxpayers. "We must pay the price of progress now or we risk staying trapped in the past forever," Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said. Opposition parties are welcoming the progress while simultaneously trying to conflate the situation with the National Children's Hospital fiasco. "Fine Gael has completely mismanaged this project from the beginning and has wasted taxpayers' money," said Fianna Fail's Timmy Dooley. The reality is most people just want to know the deal is robust and will deliver. Nowadays, technology seems to evolve faster than the eye can move but industry sources claim the fibre-to-the-home option is best in terms of being "future proofed" for 35 years. Other countries are going down the same route. Ireland is unique, though, in promising to bring it to every last home in the country, be that on the highest mountain or the lowest valley. "In five or six years' time we'll be at the forefront. We'll be the envy of Europe and the world," a government source said. But if it goes wrong, the NBP will be like the 'Bertie Bowl', electronic voting and the millennium clock all rolled into one. As part of the project, officials have mapped in the region of 60,000 townlands across the country. Some 80pc of homes lie outside the main parameter of a village. The plan covers 670 primary schools, 56,000 farms and 44,000 businesses. It all amounts to well over one million people who want this to succeed. Ministers are betting on them believing the cost is secondary. The Irish Independent has learned the Department of Communications' estimated cost for the now approved roll-out at 1bn when the bidding process commenced in December 2015. At that point the proposal included 755,000 premises but Eir was later allowed to siphon off 300,000 of the "easy to reach" homes. That made the remaining offer less attractive to companies and ultimately drove the price for the taxpayer upwards. A "competitive dialogue" took place involving three bidders but two dropped out before they entered the home straight. One - Eir - still stands to make 1bn by allowing the winning consortium to piggyback on its network of poles and ducts. The total 2.97bn cost for the State includes VAT and contingencies. Money will be handed over for 25 years, although the big bills are in the first decade. The contingency fund is 545m and can only be drawn down for 14 specific activities which haven't been made public. VAT, which ultimately finds its way back into the State coffers, amounts to 355m. As for the alternatives, at this stage taking any other route will delay the roll-out by years and there's no guarantees they would be any cheaper. One of the few good things to come from the last boom was our motorway network. This time it'll hopefully be the information highway. Northern Ireland's political leaders have vowed to strive for a deal to restore power-sharing as a fresh talks process began at Stormont. The leaders of the five main parties acknowledged mounting public impatience and anger at a stalemate that has left Northern Ireland without a functioning devolved government for more than two years. They held a short round-table meeting at Stormont House yesterday afternoon for the first exchanges of a new talks process initiated by the Irish and UK governments. During the meeting, Northern Ireland Secretary Karen Bradley and Tanaiste Simon Coveney outlined the format for the latest bid to resolve the impasse. The process will involve agenda-setting and stock-taking meetings between the five leaders and two governments at least once a week, with five working groups set up to focus on the detail of key disputes at the heart of the deadlock. The tone of the preliminary meeting was understood to be more harmonious than the last gathering of the party leaders in the winter. Afterwards, DUP leader Arlene Foster said she would enter the talks with a "good heart" and with determination to find a solution. "We want devolution to work because we are a devolutionist party," she said. "From our part, I was very clear with all the other parties that we will not be found wanting in getting a deal to get Stormont up and running again." The last DUP/Sinn Fein-led power-sharing coalition imploded in January 2017 when the late Martin McGuinness quit as Sinn Fein deputy first minister amid a row about a botched green energy scheme. The fallout over the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) was soon overtaken by disputes over the Irish language, the North's ban on same-sex marriage and the toxic legacy of the Troubles. Six previous talks initiatives to restore devolution have failed to find consensus. Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald said her party was ready to "do the business". "The current stalemate is not acceptable and not sustainable, there are outstanding issues that need to be resolved, and we believe they can be resolved," she said. "If everybody is prepared to show leadership, if everybody is prepared to respect the clear public desire for equality and people's rights to be recognised and delivered on, we can find our way back to power-sharing." After the meeting, Ms Bradley said: "There are some very significant challenges and this is not going to be easy, and therefore I'd ask that we all give the parties time and space to allow them to address these difficult issues." Irish taxpayers will carry the can for the 3bn broadband rollout to 1.1m rural homes and businesses while the private investor in the process stands to make big gains with minimal risk, Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein said today. In a huge and fierce combined opposition attack on the Governments controversial broadband plan, the leading parties of opposition accused the Fine Gael party of trying to "buy votes" in local and European Elections due on May 24. But for the Government, Communications Minister Richard Bruton, said the Government was "acting courageously" to give the same access to broadband to every Irish citizen. He conceded that senior officials in the Public Expenditure Department advised against the plan but argued that senior officials had also advised against free secondary education introduced by Fianna Fail back in 1967. Fianna Fail leader, Micheal Martin, said a delay in providing detailed broadband bidding documents until just before the Dail sat on Wednesday afternoon was an example of the Governments resort to "spin and sharp practice." Mr Martin said warnings by senior officials showed taxpayers money would amount to 2.44bn. He challenged the Communications Minister to say just how much the final bidder, Granahan McCourt, was putting into the process. Expand Close Connections: Broadband speeds will rise across the States rural areas. Picture: Steve Humphreys / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Connections: Broadband speeds will rise across the States rural areas. Picture: Steve Humphreys The Fianna Fail leader also said the Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe, also responsible for public spending, had failed to rebutt strong criticisms of his department secretary general, Robert Watt. Minister Bruton said his approach was to disclose every aspect of the deal at every possible stage. "This is a major decision to ensure that rural Ireland including 1.1 million people would get equal access to a technology which has the capacity to transform peoples lives," he said. The Minister said there was considerable risk for the private investor and the Government had taken every step possible to minimise taxpayers risks. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said the plan was a cynical political stunt with money being poured down a black hole. She also questioned the contractors ability to deliver on the project. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has heaped pressure on Prime Minister Theresa May to strike a deal with Labour Party Leader Jeremy Corbyn by insisting he does not want the Brexit deadline extended again Mr Varadkar said the decision to extend the exit date to October is already impacting on investment and consumer confidence in Ireland. Speaking outside the Binnenhof in the Hague, Holland, Mr Varadkar said: "We really cant have a situation where we roll out extensions forever." It's already the case that the uncertainty around Brexit has caused business and others to delay investment decisions. I know it has damaged consumer confidence in Ireland, although our economy is performing very well," he added. The Taoiseach was speaking after a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte where both leaders discussed their shared visions for the future of the EU. Central to their discussion was the ongoing uncertainty around Brexit as Ms May and Mr Corbyn continue to negotiate a solution to end the deadlock. Mr Varadkar said on the "ball was very much in England's court" and insisted it was now up to the leaders of the UKs two main parties to reach an agreement which avoids a no deal Brexit. "I very much hope the two many parties there are able to come to an agreement that allows for and orderly exit from the European Union," he said. The Taoiseach said there were three solutions to avoiding a border on the Island of Ireland which has been a central issue throughout the Brexit negotiations The first was for the UK to remain in the EU, which the Taoiseach acknowledged was not an option. The second was the so called Norway Plus solution which would see the UK stay in the customs union and the single market. The final solution was the controversial backstop which was agreed in withdrawal agreement between the EU and Ms May's negotiating team last year. The Taoiseach said a side deal on the Irish border could not be discussed because Ireland was an EU member state. It is something that can't be dealt with bilaterally between Ireland and the UK or by means of a side letter because we are part of the European Union, he said. Ireland is in the customs union, the single market and when the UK leaves that border between Northern Ireland and Ireland will need a frontier so it is never a matter that can be dealt with bilaterally between Ireland and the UK for that reason, he added. Separately, the Taoiseach and Mr Rutte discussed international tax developments. Both countries strongly believe that tax is sovereign issue that individual countries and member states should decide for themselves, Mr Varadkar said. We also appreciate we can't have a world where very large very wealthy companies avoid paying tax anywhere and thats why we strongly support global solution to some of those issues, he added. Rugby legend Gordon DArcy has come on board MSD Animal Healths Parasite Awareness Campaign as an ambassador, calling on dog owners to Pawse and Protect their dogs and their families from common parasites like ticks and fleas. Rugby legend Gordon DArcy has come on board MSD Animal Healths Parasite Awareness Campaign as an ambassador, calling on dog owners to Pawse and Protect their dogs and their families from common parasites like ticks and fleas. A man's best friend? Tipperary dog owners are the most likely to dance with and talk to their dog about the weather, a recent survey has found. The survey, conducted by drug giant MSD (formerelly Merch, Sharp and Dohme), interviewed nearly 550 pet owners about their dogs. They found that while Tipperary owners were happy to chat and boogie with their canines, Galway owners were the least likely to talk to their pets and only 9pc of Kildare owners said they would dance with their own mans-best-friend. The study also found that Derry dog owners were amongst the most likely to share food with their dog, with 57pc responding affirmatively to the survey question, compared to a national figure of 32. While Kildare dog owners were the least likely to share food (9pc). The survey was conducted ahead of MSDs Parasite Awareness Week, an event intended to spread awareness to pet owners on pet health and how to treat parasites like fleas and ticks. Ambassador for the event, Irish rugby star Gordon DArcy is calling on dog owners to Pawse and Protect their dogs and families from fleas and ticks and their disasterous doggy diseases. Expand Close Rugby legend Gordon DArcy has come on board MSD Animal Healths Parasite Awareness Campaign as an ambassador, calling on dog owners to Pawse and Protect their dogs and their families from common parasites like ticks and fleas. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Rugby legend Gordon DArcy has come on board MSD Animal Healths Parasite Awareness Campaign as an ambassador, calling on dog owners to Pawse and Protect their dogs and their families from common parasites like ticks and fleas. Gordon thought of his own dog Albert when urging all pet owners to have their dogs treated. "I know that our Leonberger, Albert, is treated like one of the family in our house," he said. "We have young children who absolutely adore him and love to cuddle and play with him. We dont take any chances when it comes to parasite protection for this reason, and we take our vets advice on treating against parasites throughout the year. "Its not worth taking the risk as humans can pick up nasty diseases from pet parasites. I feel passionately about my dogs health and wellbeing, so Im glad to be part of this awareness raising campaign." Expand Close Rugby legend Gordon DArcy has come on board MSD Animal Healths Parasite Awareness Campaign as an ambassador, calling on dog owners to Pawse and Protect their dogs and their families from common parasites like ticks and fleas. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Rugby legend Gordon DArcy has come on board MSD Animal Healths Parasite Awareness Campaign as an ambassador, calling on dog owners to Pawse and Protect their dogs and their families from common parasites like ticks and fleas. Research conducted by MSD found that dogs are often considered part of the family with 63pc of those surveyed saying that they allowed their mutts to lie on the sofa, while 37pc said they had their dog sleep in their own bed. Of those surveyed 62pc were not aware that a flea infestation is 95pc within the home with only 5pm visible on the affected pet. Kevin Whelan from MSD Animal Health commented on the findings, saying; "Whenever we share so much with our pets, it is imperative that we understand the risks associated with fleas and ticks and how they can impact on your home and family. "Dog fleas can also bite humans, ticks can be passed on from dogs, and some dog worms can also affect people, so failing to protect your pets is effectively leaving the door open to these unpleasant pests." Kevin continued; "We recommend that pet owners ask their vet for advice on longer lasting treatment options against common parasites, as this means that your pet will be protected for longer and its one less thing to think about. You can also ask your vet about signing up to a regular reminder service." In the survey, 65pc of people admitted to sometimes or often forgetting to give flea treatment to their dogs with 38pc waiting until they saw their dog scratching before administering flea treatment. One in five had noticed fleas on their pet within the last year while one in three had previously found a tick on their dog. A total of 53pc of those surveyed didnt know that some dog worms can affect people, and only 34pc of respondents were aware that Lyme disease affects dogs. Among the important research carried out by MSD, the company also found out how pet owners acted around their animals. Around 80pc of owners said hello to their dog when they come home, while 33pc danced with their dog. Finally, Mayo dog owners were the least likely to let their dog lick their face (17pc), with the national response coming in at 40pc while Clare owners were fond of our wet nosed friends with 67pc of respondents said they would allow their dog to lick their nose no problem. Price of progress: Taoiseach Leo Varadkar speaks at the launch of the National Broadband Plan yesterday. PHOTO: STEVE HUMPHREYS Homes in rural Ireland will have better internet access than Dublin and the regional cities as part of the 3bn plan to roll-out fibre broadband. The ambitious plan involves taxpayers subsidising broadband at an average cost of 5,000 per house over 25 years. The Government has promised to bring a fibre connection to every home and business, regardless of their location. A new company, National Broadband Ireland (NBI), is to be established and it is expected the roll-out will begin before the end of the year. NBI will effectively piggyback on the existing network of telephone poles, which are maintained by Eir, to bring cables around the country. It will take seven years for the most remote properties to be reached. Opposition parties have rounded on the Government for making the announcement just weeks out from the local elections. And the Irish Independent has learned of an explosive memo prepared by the Department of Public Expenditure which warned ministers of an unprecedented risk to the Exchequer. The intervention area covers 540,000 homes and businesses, affecting 1.1 million people. A target of reaching 133,000 homes in the first two years has been set. Between 70,000 to 100,000 homes will then be added each year. It means rural Ireland will be the best-connected region in Europe, while cities are dependent on existing copper wire infrastructure. But Rural Affairs Minister Michael Ring argued people in the regions have waited long enough. Theres nobody out there, particularly in Dublin, who could be complaining about proper broadband in rural Ireland, he said. The plan is to provide fibre broadband to 98pc of all premises with speeds starting from 150mb/s, rising to 500mb/s over the next decade for residential users and much higher speeds available for business. The remaining 2pc may have to be provided with an alternative wireless offering due to geographical or cost factors. Ministers are desperate to avoid accusations that they have allowed the project's cost to spiral in a similar fashion to the National Children's Hospital. As a result the contract, which won't be formally signed until later this year, includes a maximum pay-out of 2.97bn. This includes 545m for contingency fund in case specific issues arise. Cabinet debated the project for more than four hours yesterday before unanimously giving Communications Minister Richard Bruton permission to proceed. Among the documents provided to ministers was a six-page memo from the Department of Public Expenditure which strongly urged the plan to be scrapped. Sources told the Irish Independent there was surprise at the strength of the language used in the "explosive memo". It is understood to have warned of an "unprecedented risk" to the State's finances. Officials named a number of individual projects, including roads upgrades and primary care centres, that may have to be delayed. The memo also suggested that 3bn commitment would result in fewer social houses being built in the coming years. "It wasn't just advising on the project, it was strongly against the idea and even mentioned a potential breach of the public spending code," said a source. However, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe actively went against his senior officials to back the investment. He assured colleagues that extra capital funding would be provided so that other projects are not affected. Speaking afterwards, Mr Donohoe said his department has preformed its "challenge function very robustly". The Department of Communication suggested the benefit to every home will be in the region of 12,000. Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein questioned why the ESB wasn't considered as an alternative. Labour's Brendan Howlin said: "Fine Gael's plan not only flies in the face of official advice... but it simply doesn't make sense." Pipeline bought Westlake, West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park and Louis A. Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago, for $70 million in January. Pipeline pledged at the time to save the hospitals but, just weeks later, said it would close Westlake because financial losses exceeded projections, threatening to drag down the other two hospitals. Community leaders have been fighting to keep the hospital open ever since. Fine Gael has been in Government for eight years. During that time access to secure and affordable accommodation has become increasingly out of reach for tens of thousands of people. House prices and rents have soared. Construction of new homes by councils and the private sector has been glacial in pace. Thousands of properties are being lost from the rental market. Tens of thousands of perfectly good homes lie vacant. Homelessness has reached unprecedented levels. In 2011, when Enda Kenny became Taoiseach, there were 641 children recorded as homeless by the CSO. Last month the Department of Housing confirmed that there were 3,784 children officially homeless. The Government that put the rights of the child into the Constitution has presided over a 490pc increase in child homelessness. The economy is booming. More people are in employment than ever before. Tax revenues are buoyant. So how is it that years into an economic recovery, homelessness is so high and rising? The standard response from those of us in opposition is that Rebuilding Ireland, the Government's housing plan, is failing. Its social housing targets are too low. It has no targets for affordable rental or purchase homes. Its supports for the construction sector are ineffective. Its reforms of the private rental sector are weak. And it has badly missed its targets for reducing homelessness and getting vacant stock back into use. All of this is true. But during the debate on the no-confidence motion on Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy last September, it occurred to me that Rebuilding Ireland wasn't the real problem. In fact the Government's housing plan is just a symptom of a deeper malaise. It was that realisation that led me to start research on a book, the aim of which was to fully understand the cause of our dysfunctional housing system. The result of that work is 'HOME: Why Public Housing is the Answer', published today. Why are so many people, including those in good employment with decent wages, unable to access secure and affordable accommodation? Why are so many renters paying so much for their homes? Why have council waiting lists grown ever longer and expenditure on rental subsidies ever higher? Why are housing inequalities for Travellers, people with disabilities and migrants a constant feature of that system? Answering these questions requires an understanding of how our housing system evolved from the foundation of the State. The key turning point was the late 1980s. Prior to that, successive governments, with various levels of success and failure, prioritised the provision of housing as the main plank of their welfare policy. What UCD Professor Michelle Norris calls asset-based welfare was the dominant approach to housing for the first 70 years of the State. Home ownership was the priority, and significant State supports in the forms of grants, low-interest loans and tenant purchase discounts ensured that by the 1970s the vast majority of people had secure and affordable homes. All of this changed following the recession of the 1980s. Bank liberalisation saw low-cost State-backed home finance replaced by expensive commercial lending. Capital spending on social housing was dramatically scaled back. The result was the financialisation of owner occupation and the residualisation of social housing. From that point on accessing secure and affordable housing would become increasingly precarious. Council housing would be transformed from housing for workers to welfare housing, while owner occupation would mean ever greater debt and debt repayment. A policy consensus emerged which has remained in place from 'A Plan for Social Housing', published by the Department of the Environment in 1991, right through every major policy statement through to Rebuilding Ireland. At the core of this consensus is an over-reliance on the private sector - both financial and construction - to meet social and affordable housing needs alongside a marginal role for the State as regulator and provider of a low level of public housing while financing expensive rental subsidies. This was the approach adopted by Fianna Fail in Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities in 2007, repeated by Fine Gael and Labour in the Social Housing Strategy 2020 and uncritically adopted by the current Government in Rebuilding Ireland. Ending the housing crisis means abandoning this consensus and adopting a radically different approach. 'HOME: Why Public Housing is the Answer' sets out a vision for what this alternative looks like. We need a human rights-based housing policy which requires the right to a home to be inserted into the Constitution. We need to end the privileging of owner occupation by providing people with real choices across all tenures. Most importantly, we need a completely different conception of public housing. Councils should be building high quality developments to house those in need of subsidised social housing, non-subsidised affordable cost rental and those who desire affordable purchase. This would mean at least 15,000 public homes a year, or 50pc of the National Development Plan target of 30,000 new homes annually. We would also need reform of the private rental sector, the markets in finance and land, and measures to tackle housing inequalities for Travellers, those with disabilities and migrants. 'HOME: Why Public Housing is the Answer', is being launched at 6pm this evening in the Society of Antiquaries of Ireland, 63 Merrion Square, Dublin. For details of events in Tallaght, Cork, Waterford, Limerick and Belfast, see @EOBroin In terms of investment, employment, education and health, broadband is vital to keeping a pulse in rural communities.(stock photo) Value and price are not always immediately reconcilable, but over time they need to balance out. When the first pole was installed in the rural electrification on November 5, 1946 at Kilsallaghan, in north Co Dublin, no doubt there was at least one onlooker on standby to say: "Sure that's mad, Ted." But by the time they were finished (between 1946 and 1965) 792 areas would be connected; and millions of lives changed for the better. Back in 2012 when Pat Rabbitte, then communications minister, launched the National Broadband Plan, he described it as "rural electrification for the 21st century". In terms of scale, complexity and the transformational impact to people's lives, the comparison is apt. Even in 1947 - when the first light was switched on at Oldtown, Co Dublin - more than 400,000 homes in rural Ireland were still left in the dark. Today some 500,000 farms and businesses are bereft of fibre broadband. But the Government has determined "no-one will be left behind". So is the plan to bring high-speed broadband - via fibre optic cables - to 100pc of homes and businesses in the country ambitious? Certainly. But is it extravagant? Certainly not. As things stand some three-quarters of the population are connected through commercial operators. The tricky bit will be to get the last quarter into the picture given they are spread out over a vast area. The Government has been warned it is impractical to do so. Secretary general of the Public Expenditure Department Robert Watt, in particular, has major reservations. After all it could be the biggest Government contract ever issued. Yet in the interests of fairness, how can a Government refuse to do so? As Edmund Burke declared: "Society is indeed a contract ... it becomes a participant not only between those who are living, those who are dead, and those who are to be born." In terms of investment, employment, education and health, broadband is vital to keeping a pulse in rural communities. That does not mean concerns are not justified. Remember, the original estimate for the project was 500m. This has risen to 3bn. We have not covered ourselves in glory in terms of delivering on price with State projects. The ballooning budget of the Children's Hospital is but the latest case in point. The objections raised on pure value-for-money grounds are valid, but in terms of fairness and inclusion it would be impossible for a minister to argue why a child should be disadvantaged just because they were born in a remote location. Cost and future ownership worries will need to be clarified. We have had big statements on how a combination of State and private investment might bridge the gap between this and future generations. So far the scale of the ambition has not measured up to reality. This time the onus must be on effective economic delivery, not overblown promises. Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex are seen with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, Britain May 8, 2019. Dominic Lipinski/Pool via REUTERS Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex are seen with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, Britain May 8, 2019. Dominic Lipinski/Pool via REUTERS Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex are seen with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, Britain May 8, 2019. Dominic Lipinski/Pool via REUTERS The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, attend the Queen's Birthday reception at the British ambassador's residence on May 07, 2019 in Berlin, Germany Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle on May 8, 2019 in Windsor, England. The Duchess of Sussex gave birth at 05:26 on Monday 06 May, 2019. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski - WPA Pool/Getty Images) It's been hard to keep up with all of the Baby Sussex updates in recent days - here is everything you need to know about Meghan and Harry's beautiful new baby son. The name After several hours, Meghan and Harry confirmed they named their son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor; purposely choosing not to announce it until after they shared the news with Queen Elizabeth. It's a shortened version of Archibald, meaning "genuine", "bold" and "brave" with German origins. Due to his birth order, little Archie wouldn't naturally inherit a title unless it was requested and the new parents' decision not to confirms their desire to raise him as normally as possible. Archie was an unusual choice, while Harrison was a fitting tribute to his father as it literally means "son of Harry." Mountbatten-Windsor is the personal surname used many of Elizabeth and Philip's descendants. They shared the news with a precious photo of them as a family with Elizabeth, Prince Philip and Meghan's mother Doria Ragland on the Sussex Royal Instagram account. The announcement It has been reported by multiple outlets that Meghan had hoped for a home birth but was instead sent to hospital as she was one week past her due date, but the details were kept so secretive that many senior royals didn't even know about the labour. This allowed the couple private time together before announcing the birth (on Instagram), but also causing some confusion among royal reporters as it was initially detailed that Meghan was in labour when in fact their son was safely born several hours earlier. Harry decided on an impromptu press conference from Windsor Castle, supposedly blindsiding ITV and BBC, while Sky News was randomly selected to distribute the footage and the chaotic way in which the news trickled out caused Britain's biggest broadcasters to miss its deadlines and flub on-air reporting. The Sussexes communications chief Sara Latham described it as a colossal tech failure. Social media It's no coincidence that Meghan and Harry launched their own independent Instagram account a few weeks before the birth of their child as social media savvy Meghan knows it's the most impactful way to directly interact with followers around the world. They first announced the news of the arrival on the medium, while comparatively Kate and William opted for a news release to traditional media outlets, reflective of the duty bound protocols expected of them as England's future king and queen. It will likely be a tool they will use for their major announcements and private moments going forward. The big reveal Expand Close Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex are seen with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, Britain May 8, 2019. Dominic Lipinski/Pool via REUTERS / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex are seen with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, in Berkshire, Britain May 8, 2019. Dominic Lipinski/Pool via REUTERS Meghan and Harry chose to introduce their baby son on the grounds of Windsor Castle, where they now live in the newly refurbished Frogmore Cottage. They held a photocall with a tiny press pool of four selected to syndicate words, imagery and visuals, comprising of one reporter from the Press Association, a Sky camera crew, a photographer and controversially, an American camera crew. Video of the Day The decision to include representation from stateside has been met with widespread disdain by royal reporters, dutifully noting that the Susssexes' lifestyle is part funded by the taxpayer, but not taking into consideration the fact that Meghan is American and her child has automatic citizenship rights. Meghan's look To analyse a woman's appearance fresh from giving birth goes against the ethos for which Meghan stands (and mine), but it would be remiss of me to ignore the interest in her first public appearance in two months. After quietly withdrawing from public life to embark on her maternity leave and the fever pitch excitement around the birth, the former actress looked expectedly radiant. She wore a white sleeveless trench coat-style dress by Wales Bonner, proudly showing off her postpartum bump and a pair of the royal go-to heel: a nude court shoe. Arguably, her most telling piece of clothing was a pair of nude tights, as preferred by the Queen for all official engagements. And frankly if anyone could question the integrity of a woman so devoted to respecting her husband's grandmother that she would throw on flesh coloured tights two days after giving birth needs to have their head checked. How things differ with William and Kate William and Kate are obliged to take part in the post-birth photocall as their children are direct heirs to the British throne, but in recent years, the response to Kate standing on the steps of the Lindo Wing in high heels with a fresh blow-dry just hours after giving birth has been met with more pity than support. The idea of waiting more than a few hours to introduce their baby to the world (which is exactly what the Cambridges did after the birth of Prince George in 2013) isn't so much rebellious as it is protecting new parents' sanity and sending a message that their baby is not public property. They took to St George's Hall in Windsor Castle, a throwback to their wedding day last May, and arrived with their little bundle of joy to a handful of select media. They also gave a brief interview about the joy of parenting, unlike William and Kate who obliged for pictures with hundreds of photographers instead of this more intimate selection where they shared heartwarming quotes about parenting and their "bundle of joy". Baby Sussex's outfit Expand Close The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Picture: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born on Monday morning, during a photocall in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Picture: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire Meghan is exceptionally savvy with her sartorial choices, choosing brands which align with their ethos during public engagements (she put vegan runner brand Veja on the map after wearing them in Australia last year), so her newborn baby was always going to be dressed to perfection for his big reveal to the world. Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were all wrapped in white lace made by the Nottingham lace shawl company in keeping with a tradition first established by Queen Elizabeth in 1948 after giving birth to Prince Charles. Little Archie was wrapped in the same type of cream shawl as preferred by the tradition set by his great-grandmother. The reaction Expand Close Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, attend the Queen's Birthday reception at the British ambassador's residence on May 07, 2019 in Berlin, Germany / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, attend the Queen's Birthday reception at the British ambassador's residence on May 07, 2019 in Berlin, Germany A statement issued by Buckingham Palace on Monday stated that Meghan's mother Doria Ragland was at home with her daughter, assisting in her recovery, which stated she was "overjoyed" about her first grandchild. She has been given pride of place in all the familial coverage. Prince Charles, who is in Germany on official royal business, said: "We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return." Meghan's father Thomas, from whom she is estranged, issued a statement saying: "I am proud that my new grandson is born into the British royal family and I am sure that he will grow up to serve the crown and the people of Britain with grace, dignity, and honour." Queen Elizabeth was "delighted" by the news and beamed as she joined her husband Prince Philip in a rare public outing yesterday. George Clooney, a close friend of the couple joked about sharing a birthday with the royal baby. "It was a little irritating, because that kid really is stealing my thunder! This was my day! I was sharing it already with Orson Welles and Sigmund Freud!" Harry's tribute to his mother Expand Close Mammys little prince: Harry with his adoring mother Princess Diana in 1988 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mammys little prince: Harry with his adoring mother Princess Diana in 1988 The announcement issued by Buckingham Palace also was sure to acknowledge his late mother Princess Diana, stating that her siblings Lady Jane Fellowes, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Earl Spencer were told of the news in the same sentence as Prince Charles and Camilla and Kate and William. What's next It's believed that the Sussexes will embark on a tour of Africa with their infant son in just a few months' time, but not for the two year stint that was initially reported. They are thinking about the future, a source told Vanity Fair. Harry was always referred to as the spare, but hes not the spare any more. This is about him and Meghan finding meaningful roles for the future. Its about Harry redefining his role and him and Meghan finding a new role in the royal family and creating their own place in the institution. It's a surprising decision given they had postponed a planned trip to the US and Canada as their baby would be too young, but at least a few private trips are expected in 2020. After Meghan held a controversial baby shower in New York to see her friends before giving birth, it's likely they'll make a discreet visit stateside to do a more formal introduction with her most trusted American confidantes. 'It just so happens that I'm very good at hugs," Prince Harry told me as we chatted at Kensington Palace a while back, which he was sure would have made his mother "smile with pride". Hugs are, of course, just what babies need to blossom. Harry has ached to have children for a long time. Now that the moment has come, the question everyone is asking is what sort of father will he make. I had the good fortune to accompany him on his royal engagements for over a year for my biography 'Harry: Conversations with the Prince', and saw for myself the daredevil, rebellious action man has a soft paternal side. It is most apparent when children are around, and I believe his warmth, exuberance and tenderness make him a superdad. The public was first aware of his extraordinary empathy with children in 2004 when the rather disturbed 19-year-old prince spent eight weeks in Lesotho, southern Africa, to work at Sentebale, an orphanage for children and young people affected by HIV. Small children have a sixth sense that tells them if an adult is genuine or is someone to be wary of. Harry was not only instantly accepted but felt equally comfortable in their presence. "Children don't judge me," he explained. "They just see me as someone who likes to have fun." He had no qualms about quietly cradling ailing babies, gently holding their tiny heads in his large hands. While at Sentebale he struck up a particularly close bond with orphaned four-year-old Mutsu Potsane, who followed him everywhere and helped him to plant a tree. When Harry returned to Sentebale for another visit he bought Mutsu a pair of blue Wellington boots, which he refused to take off for weeks, even at bedtime. Theirs has been an ongoing relationship: last year Harry paid for him to fly over to Windsor for his wedding. Expand Close Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Prince George, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince Harry, Queen Elizabeth ll, Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh appear on the balcony of Buckingham Palace following the Trooping the Colour ceremony / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Prince George, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Prince Harry, Queen Elizabeth ll, Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh appear on the balcony of Buckingham Palace following the Trooping the Colour ceremony Other children are equally mesmerised by him. On royal walkabouts he regularly zooms in to talk to a child especially if they are disabled or have ginger hair, and he easily makes them laugh. When Harry visited Nottingham two years ago one little girl jumped up and down in excitement as she told me she couldn't wait to see him. "You know he's a real live prince," she told me. Harry is also patron of WellChild, a charity that provides care for seriously ill children and young people. The tenderness he shows these terminally ill or handicapped children is often overwhelmingly moving to watch. His ability to relate to children is undoubtedly inherited from his mother, and he is likely to copy some of her child-rearing methods. "I instinctively know what my mother would like me to do," he told me and described Princess Diana as "a total kid through and through", whose motto for him was, "You can be as naughty as you want, just don't get caught." She rejected the unwritten rule that royal child-rearing should be distant and uninvolved. She wanted her young sons never to doubt they were loved, and even publicly showered them with hugs and kisses. Video of the Day Diana also wanted them to have as broad an experience of life as possible and made sure they saw how others less fortunate than themselves lived. Nor did she want them to miss out on what other children did, like going to see Father Christmas, pantomimes and the cinema. She enjoyed taking them on rollercoaster rides, even to the extent of getting soaked whizzing down a water slide in fits of laughter. But he will almost certainly keep his baby out of the spotlight as he has long wished to escape "the goldfish bowl of royal life". If he and Meghan make a temporary move to Africa as has been rumoured, this will be his opportunity. I'm also sure he will put his child's needs first. We had been talking for a while when he suddenly paused and said: "William and I were 15 and 12 when our mother died and I had to walk a long way behind her coffin. "No child should lose their mother at such a young age and then have his grief observed by thousands of people watching me, while millions more round the world did on television. I don't think any child should be asked to do that, under any circumstances." Harry's childhood experiences were inevitably tarnished by the toxic atmosphere between his parents and by their subsequent divorce. In a 2017 TV interview Harry talked openly about his and William's plight: "The two of us were bouncing between the two of them and we never saw our mother enough or we never saw our father enough... "As a kid I never enjoyed speaking to my parents on the phone. We spent far too much time speaking on the phone rather than speaking to each of them." The sudden death of his mother when he was only 12 has inevitably left deep scars. They are powerful reasons why he will make it a priority to give his child a loving happy family life. But aside from looking to the footprint of his childhood for leads, he's had the useful experience of being a loving uncle to William and Kate's three young children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Whether or not the rumours of a royal rift between the brothers are true, from the beginning Prince Harry has always relished his role as uncle. When asked a few days after the birth of Prince George whether he had seen his first nephew he said he had been "crying his eyes out" when they met but that he had cuddled the baby prince. Of course Meghan may have different views on child-rearing and this can certainly be a challenging time for any couple, royal or not. She has already voiced a couple of ambitions for their new arrival. In March, during a panel discussion to celebrate International Women's Day, she said she hopes her baby will be a feminist. She has also reportedly asked Elton John to teach the baby the piano when he or she is old enough to learn. Harry, however, has more emotional leanings. "I have an incredibly large heart," he told me. "There is so much passion inside of me that I can also give to other people." His baby will undoubtedly be top of that list. ( Daily Telegraph, London) Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, exits The Mark Hotel following her baby shower in the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, U.S., February 20, 2019. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly Annie Lennox says the Duchess of Sussex can be a remarkable agent for change due to her place in the royal family (Tim Whitby/PA) Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, speaks to members of the media at Windsor Castle in Windsor on May 6, 2019, following the announcement that his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has given birth to a son. - PIC: STEVE PARSONS/AFP/Getty Images Big interest: A woman takes a picture of baby clothes and other articles displayed in a shop window after Meghan gave birth to a baby boy. Photo: REUTERS Wedding day: Prince Harry and new wife Meghan wave to the crowd as they ride a horse-drawn carriage after their wedding ceremony in Windsor Castle on May 19 last year. Photo: Damir Sagolj/Reuters Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and The Duchess of Sussex leave Windsor Castle in the Ascot Landau carriage during a procession after getting married at St Georges Chapel on May 19, 2018 in Windsor, England. (Photo by Yui Mok - WPA/Getty Images) The world will catch its first glimpse of the newborn son of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex later today when the two-day-old boy is expected to attend his first photocall. Harry and Meghan have been enjoying the experience of being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle residence. And now they plan to show off the baby that has changed their lives forever although it is not yet known if the couple have settled on a name for their baby son. Family members spoke about the joy of the new arrival with the Duke of Cambridge saying on Tuesday he was "obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down". He added: "I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting." Harry was at his wife's side during the birth on Monday and he later confessed he had only had a few hours' sleep, suggesting Meghan had spent much of the night in labour. Expand Close The official announcement is posted at Buckingham Palace. Photo: Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The official announcement is posted at Buckingham Palace. Photo: Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images Kate revealed they had no clues about the baby's name but were eager to see the Sussexes and their new arrival. She said: "As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. "These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best." Baby Sussex arrived at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz, and is thought to have been born at Frogmore Cottage, but there are some reports claiming the baby was delivered in a London hospital. Video of the Day The Prince of Wales has also spoken publicly for the first time about the birth, saying he was "delighted" at arrival of his latest grandchild. During an official visit to Germany with the Duchess of Cornwall, Charles said on Tuesday: "We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return." Harry's grandmother the Queen accepted the congratulations of a Windsor Castle guest who asked: "Life is good for Your Majesty?" The Queen, who was joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, was hosting a lunch on Tuesday for members of the Order of Merit and smiling said in reply "yes, thank you". The infant is believed to be the first mixed-race child born to a senior member of the royal family in centuries and is a reflection of modern Britain with its culturally diverse population. Alexander and Spencer are the new favourite names for the infant with many of the bookies after the long-term pick Arthur was dethroned in a flurry of betting. Britain's Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (L) and Britain's Prince William, Duke of Cambridge react as they arrive to launch the King's Cup Regatta, at the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, south east London on May 7, 2019 Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge talk to members of the media about their newborn nephew, as they arrive to launch the King's Cup Regatta at Cutty Sark, Greenwich on May 7, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool / Getty Images) Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge arrives to launch the King's Cup Regatta during the launch of the King's Cup Regatta at Cutty Sark, Greenwich on May 7, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool / Getty Images) Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge wave to well wishers as they leave after attending the launch of the King's Cup Regatta at Cutty Sark, Greenwich on May 7, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool / Getty Images) Britain's Duke and Duchess of Cambridge took part in an on-screen sailing race as William cheekily urged his crew member to tip his wife out of the boat. The couple's competitive spirits were stoked as they sat in rival simulator boats and attempted to beat each other to the start line of a race. But William displayed some rather underhand tactics, telling his helmsman to "ram" the vessel carrying his wife. Pointing at the screen showing the boats' progress, he said to seven-year-old Ethan, a pupil at Drapers Mills primary school in Margate, Kent: "Ram them, ram them! Aim for them. Tip them out." Expand Close Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge talk to members of the media about their newborn nephew, as they arrive to launch the King's Cup Regatta at Cutty Sark, Greenwich on May 7, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool / Getty Images) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge talk to members of the media about their newborn nephew, as they arrive to launch the King's Cup Regatta at Cutty Sark, Greenwich on May 7, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool / Getty Images) He later shouted over to Kate: "Are you sinking yet?" Ten-year-old Sam, from the same school, was paired with Kate, and said: "It was tense, very tense, it's the duke and duchess! The pressure builds - who wins, who loses." In just a few months' time William, and Kate will go head to head in the King's Cup Regatta to raise awareness and funds for eight of their patronages. The regatta will be hosted by William and Kate on August 9 on the Isle of Wight, and will see the couple compete as the skippers of rival boats, part of an eight-strong field. The couple launched the event at the Cutty Sark on Tuesday, the famous tea clipper ship in Greenwich, south-east London, and were joined by children and young people from eight charities which will be represented by the fleet. Before the launch, they took the opportunity to congratulate the Duke and Duchess of Sussex on the birth of their son, with a "thrilled" William joking that he was happy to welcome his brother to the "sleep deprivation society". Expand Close Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge arrives to launch the King's Cup Regatta during the launch of the King's Cup Regatta at Cutty Sark, Greenwich on May 7, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool / Getty Images) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge arrives to launch the King's Cup Regatta during the launch of the King's Cup Regatta at Cutty Sark, Greenwich on May 7, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Stansall - WPA Pool / Getty Images) Video of the Day After struggling to cross the start line on time, and conceding a draw, the pair then met the heads of the charities of which they are patrons. William spoke with CEO's of Tusk, the London Air Ambulance Charity, Child Bereavement UK and Centrepoint. The duchess met representatives from Place2Be, Action on Addiction, the Anna Freud National Centre for children and families and the Royal Foundation. They later unveiled the King's Cup which will be given to the winner of this year's regatta - a historic trophy first presented by King George V at Cowes' Royal Yacht Squadron in 1920. Sir Keith Mills, chairman of the Royal Foundation, joked to the room as he invited the couple on stage: "I think they are both going to sneak in some practice between now and August." After leaving the Cutty Sark, the couple took time to say hello and shake the hands of some of the crowd of well-wishers gathered outside. William and Kate hope the King's Cup will become an annual event, bringing greater awareness to the wider benefits of sport, while also raising support and funds for their causes. The duke trounced his wife when they competed in a dragon boat race in Canada in 2011, but Kate got her revenge three years later when she won a sailing event in Auckland during their tour of New Zealand. William took the honours again during a visit to the German city of Heidelberg in 2017, when he was victorious in a riverboat race against his wife. Tanzania wants to boost tourist numbers by putting a cable car on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africas tallest mountain, and is in talks about the project with a Chinese and a Western company. Around 50,000 tourists climb Kilimanjaro annually. A cable car could increase tourist numbers by 50 percent by providing access to the mountain for those unable to climb it, Constantine Kanyasu, the deputy minister for tourism, said. The country is conducting feasibility studies on possible routes at the moment, Kanyasu told Reuters. "We are still doing a feasibility study to see if this project works," he said. "There are two companies one from China and another from a Western country that have shown interest." "This wont be the first time in the world, cable cars are there in Sweden, Italy, the Himalayas, he said. Kanyasu said the government was looking at business plans, potential investors and profits. The length of the route has not been finalised, with various options under consideration depending on cost and engineering issues, the minister said. An environmental impact assessment would also be carried out, he said. Porter and guide groups who take tourists up the mountain oppose the project because they fear cable cars will reduce the number of climbers. Loishiye Mollel, head of Tanzania Porters' Organisation, said visitors normally spend a week climbing the mountain. "One visitor from the US can have a maximum of 15 people behind him, of which 13 are porters, a cook and a guide. All these jobs will be affected by a cable car," he said. "We are of the view that the mountain should be left as it is." There are about 20,000 porters working between Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru, another mountain nearby, he said. Tanzania's earnings from tourism jumped 7.13 percent last year, helped by an increase in arrivals from foreign visitors. Tourism revenues raised $2.43 billion for the year, up from $2.19 billion in 2017. Tourism is the main source of hard currency in Tanzania, known for its beaches, wildlife safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro, which has three volcanic cones and is nearly 5,000 metres high from its base. Amanda Knox is to return to Italy for the first time since she was convicted and imprisoned, but ultimately acquitted, of the murder and sexual assault of her British roommate in Perugia. The American was invited to attend a conference in June organised by the Italy Innocence Project, which seeks to help people who have been convicted of crimes they did not commit. The Italy Innocence Project didn't yet exist when I was wrongly convicted in Perugia. I'm honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time.https://t.co/MGorAiDgKJ Amanda Knox (@amandaknox) May 7, 2019 Ms Knox and her former boyfriend were initially convicted of the killing of Meredith Kercher in 2007. They were eventually acquitted after a series of court decisions. Ms Knox said on Twitter: Im honoured to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time. Ms Knox, 31, from Seattle, was due to speak at an event on the role of the media in judicial errors on the last day of the conference, June 15, in Modena. Free: Reuters journalists Wa Lone, left, and Kyaw Soe Oo wave as they walk out from Insein Prison after being released. Photo: Reuters/Ann Wang Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after they were convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act walked free from a prison on the outskirts of Yangon yesterday after spending more than 500 days behind bars. The two reporters, Wa Lone (33) and Kyaw Soe Oo (29), had been convicted in September and sentenced to seven years in jail, in a case that raised questions about Myanmar's progress toward democracy, and sparked an outcry from diplomats and human rights advocates. They were released under a presidential amnesty for 6,520 prisoners yesterday. President Win Myint has pardoned thousands of other prisoners in mass amnesties since last month. Reuters has said the two men did not commit any crime and had called for their release. Swamped by media and well-wishers as they walked through the gates of Insein Prison, a grinning Wa Lone gave a thumbs up and said he was grateful for the international efforts to secure their freedom. "I'm really happy and excited to see my family and my colleagues. I can't wait to go to my newsroom," he said. Kyaw Soe Oo smiled and waved to reporters. The two were then driven away by Reuters colleagues and reunited with their wives and children. Before their arrest in December 2017, they had been working on an investigation into the killing of 10 Rohingya Muslim men and boys by security forces and Buddhist civilians in western Myanmar's Rakhine State during an army crackdown that began in August 2017. The operation sent more than 730,000 Rohingya fleeing to Bangladesh, according to UN estimates. The report the two men authored, featuring testimony from perpetrators, witnesses and families of the victims, was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for international reporting in May, adding to a number of accolades received by the pair Calls to a spokesman for the Myanmar government were not immediately answered. Reuters editor-in-chief Stephen J Adler welcomed the news. "We are enormously pleased that Myanmar has released our courageous reporters. Since their arrests 511 days ago, they have become symbols of the importance of press freedom around the world," he said. North Korea is increasingly turning to wigs and false eyelashes to stave off an economic crisis that threatens to bring down the regime of Kim Jong-un. Unlike coal, minerals, food and other exports that Pyongyang has traditionally relied on to earn foreign currency, items incorporating synthetic hair are classified as craft products and are not banned from export by UN sanctions. Taking advantage of this loophole, state-owned factories in North Korea have raised production and set up partnerships with Chinese middlemen in border cities such as Dandong, doubling their exports. Prices are relatively cheap and the North Korean traders' margins are slender but the products are sought after because of their quality, Japan's 'Asahi' newspaper reported. It added that the paperwork with the wigs and false eyelashes was in Japanese, raising the possibility that the Chinese middlemen could be exporting them to Japan, possibly after attaching "Made in China" labels to make them more appealing to chain stores around the world. Sanctions are increasingly affecting life in North Korea, with coal mines and state-run factories shut down, workers failing to turn up to their jobs in order to try and make more money in the markets, and reports that many schoolchildren are skipping classes to go door-to-door in Pyongyang selling charcoal. Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row in Pakistan, has left the country for Canada to be reunited with her daughters, Pakistans media said. Wilson Chawdhry of the British Pakistani Christian Association told the Associated Press on Wednesday that he had received a text message from a British diplomat stating simply: Aasia is out. A close friend of Ms Bibi confirmed that she had left the country, speaking on condition of anonymity. Asia Bibi is free at last! https://t.co/5WBJgnXhCG via @WilsonChowdhry Hannah Chowdhry (@ChristiansAsian) May 8, 2019 Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in 2009 after a dispute with a fellow farm worker. She spent eight years on death row until the Supreme Court last year overturned her conviction. She has since been in protective custody. Islamic extremists have rioted over the case and threatened to kill her, and also urged the overthrow of the government after Ms Bibis acquittal. The case has brought international attention to Pakistans controversial blasphemy law, which carries an automatic death penalty. Fantastic news that Asia Bibi appears to have left Pakistan safely. About to meet @JustinWelby and @SecPompeo to talk about persecution of Christians around the world. This shows that with concerted effort the right thing can happen Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt) May 8, 2019 The mere suspicion of blasphemy against Islam can be enough to ignite mob lynchings in the country. The friend, who last spoke to her on Tuesday, said Ms Bibi and her husband Ashiq Masih had spent the last few weeks getting their documents in order. He said she was longing to see her daughters, with whom she talked almost daily from her secure location, protected by Pakistani security forces. Mr Chawdhry said he had been in regular contact with Ms Masih husband throughout the ordeal as well as with several diplomats as part of an international effort to have her freed. Salman Taseer, the governor of Punjab province, was shot and killed by one of his guards in 2011 for defending Ms Bibi and criticising the misuse of the blasphemy law. The assassin, Mumtaz Qadri, has been celebrated as a martyr by hardliners since he was hanged for the killing, with millions visiting a shrine set up for him near Islamabad. Pakistans minister for minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, was assassinated later the same year after demanding justice for Ms Bibi. Expand Close Imran Khan (Stefan Rousseau/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Imran Khan (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Prime minister Imran Khan has vowed not to be intimidated by the rioters, saying the rule of law would decide Ms Bibis fate, but she was denied permission to leave the country for several months until sentiments cooled. A three-judge Supreme Court panel in January cleared Ms Bibis final legal hurdle when they ruled there was no compelling reason to overturn the courts earlier acquittal. The judges accused those who charged Ms Bibi with blasphemy of committing perjury, but said they would not be tried because of the sensitivity of the case. The judges upheld the blasphemy law. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted his pleasure at Ms Bibis departure. He said it was fantastic news, adding that he was about to meet US secretary of state Mike Pompeo to talk about the persecution of Christians around the world. A branch of The co-operative bank in Islington, north London (PA) The Co-operative Bank has posted a first quarter loss, but insisted it remains on the road to recovery from near-collapse. The lender booked an underlying loss of 5.1 million and a pre-tax loss of 28.6 million in the first three months of the year, in line with expectations. Total income increased by 2%, driven by strong deposit margins, which helped offset a weaker performance in mortgages. Co-op Bank saw 1% growth in both customer lending and deposits, and saw a 5% increase in product switching. Chief executive Andrew Bester said: Weve made encouraging progress in the first quarter, reaching some key milestones against a challenging UK retail banking market and uncertain economic backdrop. Another focus area this year is to fix the basics that will provide a platform for development in future years, including concluding the separation of our IT infrastructure from the Co-op Group, and we are making good headway. The lender saw a 5% increase in operating expenses driven by spending on marketing, staff and customer experience. In February, the Co-operative Bank returned to operating profit for the first time in five years following a difficult period for the lender. In 2017, the Co-op Bank reached a 700 million deal with hedge funds which saved the troubled lender from a potential collapse. The rescue deal saw the bank effectively sever its historic relationship with the Co-operative Group and separate itself from the wider mutuals pension scheme. Mr Bester added: Our brand heritage is a real asset at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking ethical choices and our co-operative values are at the forefront of our new multi-media advertising campaign which launched last month: For People with Purpose. Our values are at the heart of our bank and are important both to our loyal customers and to our future growth. AMANDA Knox is to return to Italy for the first time since she was convicted and imprisoned, but ultimately acquitted, of the murder and sexual assault of her British roommate in Perugia. The American was invited to attend a conference in June organised by the Italy Innocence Project, which seeks to help people who have been convicted of crimes they did not commit. Ms Knox and her former boyfriend were initially convicted of the killing of Meredith Kercher in 2007. They were eventually acquitted after a series of court decisions. Ms Knox said on Twitter: "I'm honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time." 'The decision is significant because it might allow Mr Puigdemont and his colleagues to ultimately return to Spain under the protection of European Parliament legal immunity.' Photo: AP/Manu Fernandez Spain's highest court has thrown out a ban on Catalonia's pro-independence former leader from standing in the European elections. Electoral commission officials had said Carles Puigdemont and two other Catalan separatist politicians could not stand because they were not resident in Spain. The decision is significant because it might allow Mr Puigdemont and his colleagues to ultimately return to Spain under the protection of European Parliament legal immunity. They fled the country on charges of rebellion for their role in Catalonia's abortive October 2017 unilateral declaration of independence, which was declared illegal by Spanish courts. The commission had originally imposed the ban after a complaint was raised by two right-of-centre parties. But in a unanimous decision the supreme court in Madrid said contesting an election was a "fundamental right" protected by the constitution and fleeing the country could not make a person ineligible. When he was selected as a candidate, Mr Puigdemont said: "It is time to take another step to internationalise the right to self-determination in Catalonia from the heart of Europe to the whole world." He and two other politicians, Toni Comin and Clara Ponsati, are standing for the pro-independence Lliures per Europa list. Detectives investigating child sexual exploitation in the UK city of Rotherham have arrested 40 people over the past two months. The 38 men and two women were questioned following allegations made by 13 victims about sexual abuse against them between 1997 and 2015, the UK's National Crime Agency said. The arrests are part of the ongoing Operation Stovewood investigation. An NCA spokeswoman said the people arrested are aged between 29 and 53 and are from Sheffield, Rotherham, Leeds, Dewsbury, and Maidstone in Kent. All have been bailed or released under investigation pending further inquiries. The spokeswoman said the victims were aged between 11 and 26 at the time of the alleged offences. Carl Vessey-Baitson, from the NCA, said: "Arresting such a large number of individuals, as part of one Stovewood sub-operation, shows our desire to listen to victims and bring offenders to justice is not wavering. "Stovewood is a challenging and complex investigation, with victims and survivors reliving abuse that took place many years ago. "To date we have engaged with over 410 victims and survivors and have arrested or interviewed by appointment 94 suspects, meaning this is the largest law enforcement investigation into non-familial CSAE (child sexual abuse and exploitation) ever undertaken in the UK. "Conducting such an investigation can only be achieved with the support and co-ordination of our partners, and South Yorkshire Police and Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council continue to provide invaluable assistance." The NCA launched Operation Stovewood, at the invitation of South Yorkshire Police, after Professor Alexis Jay's 2014 report into the rape, grooming and trafficking of hundreds of children in Rotherham. The Jay Report described how more than 1,400 children had been affected - a figure which was later established to be an underestimate by Operation Stovewood, which has identified 1,523 victims. Towards the end of 2018, the NCA said it had 151 designated suspects, 275 other people under investigation and 296 female survivors of exploitation actively engaging with officers. The NCA has full control of allegations between 1997 and 2013, with 250 staff and an annual budget that will soon reach 15 million a year. It is estimated the operation will cost more than 90 million by 2024 - the date to which current planning extends. FUGITIVE Joseph McCann has been charged with the kidnap and rape of a woman in Watford, Scotland Yard said. The 34-year-old will appear in court on Wednesday charged with the kidnap and rape of a woman in Watford, Hertfordshire. Previously he has been described as having a "slight Irish accent". A Metropolitan Police statement said: "Joseph McCann, (34) of Aylesbury, will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court this afternoon, Wednesday, May 8. "The charges have been brought in connection with an incident alleged to have taken place in Watford on Sunday, 21 April. "Officers from the Met's Homicide and Major Crime Command continue to investigate. "A file remains with the Crown Prosecution Service in relation to further alleged offences." The world will catch its first glimpse of the newborn son of Britain's Prince Harry and his wife Meghan later today when the two-day-old boy is expected to attend his first photocall. Harry and Meghan have been enjoying the experience of being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle residence. Expand Close The official announcement is posted at Buckingham Palace. Photo: Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The official announcement is posted at Buckingham Palace. Photo: Chris J Ratcliffe/Getty Images As they plan to show off their new son to the world, it is not yet known if the couple have settled on a name for their baby son. Family members spoke about the joy of the new arrival with Harry saying on Tuesday he was "obviously thrilled, absolutely thrilled, and obviously looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down". He added: "I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting." Harry was at his wife's side during the birth on Monday and he later confessed he had only had a few hours' sleep, suggesting Meghan had spent much of the night in labour. Expand Close Mammys little prince: Harry with his adoring mother Princess Diana in 1988 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mammys little prince: Harry with his adoring mother Princess Diana in 1988 His sister-in-law Kate Middleton revealed they had no clues about the baby's name but were eager to see the new baby. She said: "As William said, we're looking forward to meeting him and finding out what his name's going to be so it's really exciting for both of them and we wish them all the best. "These next few weeks are always a bit daunting the first time round so we wish them all the best." The little boy - dubbed Baby Sussex - arrived at 5.26am on Monday, weighing 7lb 3oz, and is thought to have been born at Frogmore Cottage, but there are some reports claiming the baby was delivered in a London hospital. Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Britain's Prince Harry smiles as he speaks to the media after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to a baby boy, at Windsor Castle, Berkshire county, Britain May 6, 2019. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS Britain's Prince Harry smiles as he speaks to the media after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to a baby boy, at Windsor Castle, Berkshire county, Britain May 6, 2019. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, speaks to members of the media at Windsor Castle in Windsor on May 6, 2019, following the announcement that his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has given birth to a son. - PIC: STEVE PARSONS/AFP/Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Britain's Prince Harry smiles as he speaks to the media after Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, gave birth to a baby boy, at Windsor Castle, Berkshire county, Britain May 6, 2019. Steve Parsons/Pool via REUTERS The Prince of Wales has also spoken publicly for the first time about the birth, saying he was "delighted" at arrival of his latest grandchild. During an official visit to Germany, Charles said on Tuesday: "We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return." Harry's grandmother the Queen accepted the congratulations of a Windsor Castle guest who asked: "Life is good for Your Majesty?" The Queen, who was joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, was hosting a lunch on Tuesday for members of the Order of Merit and smiling said in reply "yes, thank you". The infant is believed to be the first mixed-race child born to a senior member of the royal family in centuries and is a reflection of modern Britain with its culturally diverse population. Alexander and Spencer are the new favourite names for the infant with many of the bookies after the long-term pick Arthur was dethroned in a flurry of betting. A PILOT has been spared jail after admitting being over the legal limit before a flight to the US. David Copeland, 63, had been drinking rum in his hotel room the night before he was due to fly an American Airlines plane from Manchester to Philadelphia, Minshull Street Crown Court heard on Wednesday. But the court was told that Copeland's employers were supporting him and he hoped to be able to fly again next year if he successfully completed a treatment programme. He was given a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, after admitting the charge of performing an aviation function while impaired by drink at an earlier hearing at Manchester Magistrates' Court. The father-of-two, from McMurray in Pennsylvania, had arrived at Manchester Airport on February 7 when a security officer raised concerns after noticing his demeanour and smelling alcohol on him, the court heard. The officer contacted police, who held the flight as Copeland was preparing for take-off. He was breathalysed but the sample failed and a blood test at the police station showed he had 27 milligrammes of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood in his system - over the legal limit of 20. The court heard that the UK limit for flying was lower than for driving motor vehicles, which is 80, and also lower than the American limit of 40 for flights. Sentencing, Judge Maurice Greene told Copeland: "You are an experienced pilot who no doubt has been in this country on a number of occasions before and knows the relevant limit. "It is a serious offence because of the responsibility you, as the pilot of a commercial airline, hold. You hold the lives of many people in your hands when you get into that plane." Henry Blackshaw, defending, said that, on the night before his arrest, Copeland had a meal with the rest of the crew and consumed a modest amount of alcohol. He then went back to his hotel room and stayed up to call his wife after she finished work. "He treated himself to a nightcap of rum in the hotel room and it seems it was that alcohol in combination with the residue of alcohol from dinnertime which would have, in combination, caused his levels to be over the limit the following morning," he said. Mr Blackshaw said the pilot had observed the industry's eight-hour "bottle to throttle" rule and had not realised there may still be alcohol in his system. The court heard that Copeland had the support of his wife Bobbi, who sat in the public gallery, as well as of his colleagues, community and employers. Mr Blackshaw said Copeland had accrued more than 27,000 flight miles since he had become employed in the industry in the 1980s. He said: "He has had a hitherto unblemished flying record. He is a valued employee and he is a respected and popular captain with the crews who fly under him, both those in the cockpits and those in the cabin." The court heard that, since his arrest, he had been diagnosed with alcoholism. He was undergoing a treatment programme for his alcohol issues, which had included spending 30 days in a residential unit and attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings daily, the court was told. Judge Greene said if Copeland successfully completed six to eight months of the programme he would be required to undergo a neuro-psychiatric evaluation to assess his fitness to fly. Copeland was also ordered to pay 400 costs. Mr Juncker also said it was "totally unacceptable" to link EU Council President Donald Tusk with tyrants Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler, as has been done by Polish state TV. Photo: Reuters/Francois Lenoir The European Union was wrong to stay silent in 2016 during the campaign ahead of the British referendum on membership in the bloc because it should have corrected "lies" spread by the Leave side, the head of the European Commission said. "It was a mistake not to intervene and not to interfere because we would have been the only ones to destroy the lies which were circulated," Jean-Claude Juncker said. "I was wrong to be silent at an important moment," he said, adding the bloc's top institutions were following the advice of Britain's former prime minister David Cameron, who warned against meddling in the UK's internal affairs. Mr Juncker also said it was "totally unacceptable" to link EU Council President Donald Tusk with tyrants Joseph Stalin and Adolf Hitler, as has been done by Polish state TV. Mr Tusk, a former Polish prime minister and an arch-rival of the ruling nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party, gave a speech in Warsaw last week offering a stinging critique of the government. He told the ruling eurosceptics to stop flouting the rule of law and his country's constitution amid speculation he was eyeing a return to Polish politics when his EU term ends in November. Poland's state broadcaster - on a tight leash since PiS came to power in 2015 - reacted with a clip seeking to discredit Mr Tusk as a politician who pursues German rather than Polish national interests. Next to Mr Tusk's, the clip included pictures of Stalin and Hitler, whose Soviet Union and Nazi Germany invaded Poland in 1939. Into the future: Harry and Meghans rumoured move to Africa may help the family escape the goldfish bowl of royal life, for a time at least. Photo: Reuters The Duke and Duchess of Sussex at the premiere of Cirque du Soleils Totem, in support of the Sentebale charity, at the Royal Albert Hall (Paul Grover/Daily Telegraph) The Duke Of Sussex was beaming as he spoke at Windsor Castle after the Duchess Of Sussex gave birth to a baby boy weighing 7lbs 3oz (Steve Parsons/PA) Wedding day: Prince Harry and new wife Meghan wave to the crowd as they ride a horse-drawn carriage after their wedding ceremony in Windsor Castle on May 19 last year. Photo: Damir Sagolj/Reuters Big interest: A woman takes a picture of baby clothes and other articles displayed in a shop window after Meghan gave birth to a baby boy. Photo: REUTERS Now that everyone knows Prince Harry and his wife Meghan have a baby boy, the guessing has turned to what he will be called. Royals have a way of taking their time about naming babies and the couple is known to want to do things at their own pace, so it may be a few days before the couple reveals the name for their first child. Britain's bookmakers reported high interest in the names Alexander, James and Arthur, as well as speculation about the name Spencer, the maiden name of Harry's late mother, Princess Diana. Choosing Spencer as a first or middle name is seen as a way for Harry to honour Diana, who died in a Paris car crash in 1997 when he was only 12. He spoke before he married Meghan last year about his desire to pay tribute to her memory during the ceremony. Expand Close Wedding day: Prince Harry and new wife Meghan wave to the crowd as they ride a horse-drawn carriage after their wedding ceremony in Windsor Castle on May 19 last year. Photo: Damir Sagolj/Reuters / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Wedding day: Prince Harry and new wife Meghan wave to the crowd as they ride a horse-drawn carriage after their wedding ceremony in Windsor Castle on May 19 last year. Photo: Damir Sagolj/Reuters Others believe Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, will choose a name that reflects her American heritage. The infant, known only as Baby Sussex for the moment, was born early Monday morning. The royal couple have not said if he was born at home or at a hospital. Harry said when he announced the birth that he and Meghan are "thinking" about names and hinted that an announcement might be made today or shortly thereafter. The couple are also expected to pose with their newborn or release a photo on their Instagram account. The couple are expected to name godparents to the child at a future date. His likely title links the royal newborn to an ancient Scottish kingdom and the legend of Merlin. As the son of a duke, the baby is entitled to be known as the Earl of Dumbarton, one of the subsidiary titles given to Harry on the morning of his wedding by his grandmother Queen Elizabeth. Harry, in consultation with the queen, might however decide that his son will not use the title - in which case he could simply be Lord (first name) Mountbatten-Windsor. Video of the Day With Harry and Meghan forging their own path within the royal family, they might even decide not to use any title, with the baby being Master (first name) Mountbatten-Windsor. But any decision would have to be made with the queen's agreement. The queen could still step in and issue a Letters Patent and make the baby boy a prince. Expand Close File photo dated 05/03/19 of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp File photo dated 05/03/19 of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex Read More Founded in the fifth century, the town of Dumbarton, on the River Clyde, west of Glasgow in Scotland, was once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde. Dumbarton Castle sits on the dramatic twin peaks of the 240ft-high Dumbarton Rock - a volcanic plug which in-filled the crater of a volcano that was active 350 million years ago. It guards the point where the River Leven joins the River Clyde. According to Historic Environment Scotland: "Dumbarton Rock was a mighty stronghold in the Dark Ages. "Waters swirl around the base of the volcanic rock, which rises almost vertical into the sky. From its twin peaks you can see for many miles." The fort was, according to legend, visited by King Arthur's wizard Merlin in the sixth century. Vikings later besieged the fortress, eventually pillaging and destroying it. The medieval castle was built by King of Scots Alexander II in 1220. It was a cornerstone of medieval royal power and was the hiding place for the young Mary Queen of Scots, before she fled to France at the age of five. Harry became the third person to hold the title the Earl of Dumbarton, and now his son is expected to be the fourth. Before the queen gave Harry the title, it had not been used in more than 260 years. On marriage, Meghan became the Countess of Dumbarton. It is a fine line on which he has to tread in the coming months, and there is no better way to try and straddle it than use his more moderate-leaning daughter as a surrogate. Having Ivanka Trump pose for a picture with Lightfoot sends the message that the president is open to opposing ideas and that he is willing to work with a solidly blue city that would never vote to give him a second term. The Taliban have attacked the offices of an international non-profit organisation in the Afghan capital. The attackers set off a huge explosion and battled Afghan security forces in an assault that wounded at least nine people, officials said. A large plume of smoke rose from the area in Kabul and the sound of sporadic gunfire could be heard. The attack targeted an international aid group called Counterpart International, which has offices near those of the Afghan attorney general, according to an interior ministry spokesman. Expand Close Smokes rises after a huge explosion in Kabul (Rahmat Gul/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Smokes rises after a huge explosion in Kabul (Rahmat Gul/AP) Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the group attacked the organisation because it was involved in harmful Western activities inside Afghanistan. The insurgents stage near-daily attacks on Afghan forces, even as peace efforts have accelerated to find an end to the countrys 17-year war. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani called for peace with the Taliban last week and promised to free 175 Taliban prisoners ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began on Monday. The Taliban said they would continue their attacks during Ramadan, but would be very careful of civilians during any operation. The insurgents have rejected past ceasefire proposals, saying US and Nato troops must withdraw from the country first. The Taliban also refuse to negotiate directly with the government in Kabul, seeing it as a US puppet. French president Emmanuel Macron lays a wreath of flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier under the Arc de Triomphe (Martin Bureau, Pool via AP) French president Emmanuel Macron has relit the flame of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during a ceremony to mark the 74th anniversary of the Second World War victory over Nazi Germany. President Macron laid a wreath at the tomb under the Arc de Triomphe, surrounded by military officials and guests, including several veterans of the war and former presidents. Commemorating the victory of the Allies over Nazi Germany on May 8 1945, 11 months after the D-Day landings in Normandy, is a ritual for French presidents. Expand Close President Macron at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Christian Hartmann, Pool via AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp President Macron at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Christian Hartmann, Pool via AP) Horses of the Republican Guard escorted President Macrons car up the Champs-Elysees Avenue to the monument. The president also laid a wreath at the statue of Charles de Gaulle, the general revered for leading the French Resistance and later elected president. Aasia Bibi and her boyfriend, Shahid Lashari, are presented to journalists, at police station in Muzaffargarh in Pakistan (AP Photo/Iram Asim) Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row in Pakistan, has left the country for Canada to be reunited with her daughters, Pakistan's media said. Wilson Chawdhry of the British Pakistani Christian Association told the Associated Press on Wednesday that he had received a text message from a British diplomat stating simply: "Aasia is out." A close friend of Ms Bibi confirmed that she had left the country, speaking on condition of anonymity. Bibi was convicted of blasphemy in 2009 after a dispute with a fellow farm worker. Expand Close Aasia Bibi and her boyfriend, Shahid Lashari, are presented to journalists, at police station in Muzaffargarh in Pakistan (AP Photo/Iram Asim) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Aasia Bibi and her boyfriend, Shahid Lashari, are presented to journalists, at police station in Muzaffargarh in Pakistan (AP Photo/Iram Asim) She spent eight years on death row until the Supreme Court last year overturned her conviction. She has since been in protective custody. Islamic extremists have rioted over the case and threatened to kill her, and also urged the overthrow of the government after Ms Bibi's acquittal. The case has brought international attention to Pakistan's controversial blasphemy law, which carries an automatic death penalty. The mere suspicion of blasphemy against Islam can be enough to ignite mob lynchings in the country. The friend, who last spoke to her on Tuesday, said Ms Bibi and her husband Ashiq Masih had spent the last few weeks getting their documents in order. He said she was longing to see her daughters, with whom she talked almost daily from her secure location, protected by Pakistani security forces. Mr Chawdhry said he had been in regular contact with Ms Masih husband throughout the ordeal as well as with several diplomats as part of an international effort to have her freed. Salman Taseer, the governor of Punjab province, was shot and killed by one of his guards in 2011 for defending Ms Bibi and criticising the misuse of the blasphemy law. The assassin, Mumtaz Qadri, has been celebrated as a martyr by hardliners since he was hanged for the killing, with millions visiting a shrine set up for him near Islamabad. Pakistan's minister for minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, was assassinated later the same year after demanding justice for Ms Bibi. Prime minister Imran Khan has vowed not to be intimidated by the rioters, saying the rule of law would decide Ms Bibi's fate, but she was denied permission to leave the country for several months until sentiments cooled. A three-judge Supreme Court panel in January cleared Ms Bibi's final legal hurdle when they ruled there was no compelling reason to overturn the court's earlier acquittal. The judges accused those who charged Ms Bibi with blasphemy of committing perjury, but said they would not be tried because of the sensitivity of the case. The judges upheld the blasphemy law. Opponents of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have warned the Turkish leader's grip on power is a threat to democracy after his party successfully overturned the Istanbul mayoral election result. They said the Supreme Electoral Board's decision to invalidate the election after a narrow defeat for Mr Erdogan's conservative and Islamic-based Justice and Development Party (JDP) gave him an even greater grip on power and Turkish democracy. Ekrem Imamoglu of the opposition Republican People's Party won by a slender margin in the March 31 vote, defeating the ruling party candidate, former prime minister Binali Yildirim. The JDP then claimed a series of election irregularities made the results illegitimate. The electoral board revoked Mr Imamoglu's victory and called a new election for June 23. As grounds to annul the March 31 results, the board said some ballot station heads were not civil servants as required by law. Mr Yildirim said he hoped the decision would lead to "beneficial and beautiful results for Istanbul". Presidential communications director Fahrettin Altun said: "Having held free and fair elections for nearly seven decades, Turkey will complete this process in a transparent, lawful and orderly manner." Addressing thousands of his supporters in Istanbul, Mr Imamoglu accused the electoral board of bowing to pressure and threats from the president's party. He vowed to use "democracy" to win back the "rights" he said were taken away by force. The crowd called for the electoral board members to resign and accused Mr Erdogan of stealing the vote. Kati Piri, the European Parliament's rapporteur on Turkey, tweeted: "This ends the credibility of democratic transition of power through elections in Turkey." Police set up barricades around the electoral board's headquarters in Turkey's capital Ankara, but there were no immediate signs of major demonstrations. Protesters banged pots and pans in several Istanbul neighbourhoods, the opposition 'Birgun' newspaper reported. Howard Eissenstat, a Turkey expert at the non-profit Project for Middle East Democracy and a Middle East history scholar at St Lawrence University in New York, said the ruling "removes the last fig leaf of competitive elections" hiding the erosion of democracy in Turkey. "Turkey wasn't democratic yesterday and it's not democratic today," Mr Eissenstat said. He noted Mr Erdogan's party previously invalidated election results in Turkey's mostly Kurdish-populated regions after a pro-Kurdish party won and replaced elected mayors with government appointees. "Erdogan cannot afford to lose in the second round. It would a disastrous display of weakness," Mr Eissenstat said. The local elections held across Turkey on March 31 produced setbacks for the president. His party lost control in the capital as well as Istanbul, ending 25 years of the JDP and its Islamist predecessor governing both cities. The loss of Istanbul, the country's commercial and cultural capital, was particularly hard for Mr Erdogan, who began his political ascent as Istanbul's mayor. At pre-election rallies, he had repeatedly told crowds, "Whoever wins Istanbul, wins Turkey". JOE Biden has been challenged to discuss his "only real Irishman" claim over a pint of Guinness by a fellow Democratic presidential candidate. Former congressman John Delaney issued the challenge after Biden called himself the only real Irishman in the race for the White House, as reported by the Financial Times. "I'm sure there's a civil way to figure this all out - maybe over a pint of Guinness in Rehoboth, @JoeBiden?" Mr Delaney tweeted on Tuesday. This comes after Mr Biden proudly emphasised his Irish roots once again in an interview earlier this week. A reporter introduced his question by asking: Can an Irishman get a question? The former US vice president used the topic for a jab at his rivals. "The Irish guy? There's only one real Irishman running for president and it's me," he said at the end of the political event. There are at least four other candidates of Irish ancestry hoping to become the next US president. Besides Mr Delaney, New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan, and former Texas Congressman Beto ORourke have ties to the Emerald Isle. Mr Biden's roots in Ireland can be traced to his great-grandfather, James Finnegan, who emigrated from Louth as a child in 1850. Overall, ten of his 16 great-great-grandparents are from Ireland. While Mr Delaney, who has three grandparents of Irish descent, seemed to take Mr Biden's remarks in good humour, he did back a backlash from some online commentators. Mr Biden was accused of making a swipe at the other candidates - supporters of former El Paso congressman ORourke, called the statement unnecessary and a waste of breath via Twitter. Former vice president Joe Biden had announced that he would run for president in 2020 at the end of April. The 76-year-old had previously run for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1988 and 2008 but had withdrawn from both races. After his 2008 candidacy had failed, he agreed to become Barack Obamas running mate and subsequently served two terms as his vice president. In the swing: Tiger Woods and girlfriend Erica Herman (left), with the golfers mother Kultida Woods (second left), and children Sam and Charlie, with Donald Trump and US First Lady Melania Trump after a Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony at the White House. Photo: AFP/Getty Images Bill Weld, the Republican former governor and federal prosecutor challenging Donald Trump for their party's nomination in 2020, says the president is "impeachable" as a result of the Mueller report, attacking his administration's "brazenness" over the handling of the investigation into Russian collusion. Democratic contender Eric Swalwell has likewise called for impeachment to remove the "really bad kid in the White House" as Joe Biden surges ahead of nearest rival Bernie Sanders in the opinion polls. Mr Weld, a former Massachusetts governor, told MSNBC's 'The Beat with Ari Melber' that the president was "impeachable" as a result of the Mueller report, a position he was initially opposed to but now says "needs a little rethinking in view of the brazenness" of both Mr Trump and his attorney general William Barr in their handling of the report and subsequent refusal to co-operate with further congressional investigations. The House Judiciary Committee will vote on whether to hold Mr Barr in contempt of Congress today. Mr Weld added his name to the hundreds of signatures from members of the legal profession who published an open letter on Monday saying there was enough evidence of obstruction of justice in the FBI special counsel's report to generate "multiple charges" against Mr Trump and that only his being the president saved him from facing them. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin has meanwhile refused to release the president's tax returns to the House Ways and Means committee. Mr Mnuchin told Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal that the panel's request "lacks a legitimate legislative purpose" as Supreme Court precedent requires. In making that determination, Mr Mnuchin said he relied on the advice of the Justice Department. He concluded the Treasury Department is "not authorised to disclose the requested returns and return information". He said the Justice Department will provide a more detailed legal justification soon. The move is sure to set in motion a legal battle over Mr Trump's tax returns. The chief options available to Democrats are to subpoena the IRS for the returns or to file a lawsuit. Last week, Mr Neal promised "we'll be ready" to act soon after Monday's deadline. The Treasury's denial came on the day the House Judiciary panel scheduled a vote for today on whether to find Mr Barr in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with a subpoena for a full, unredacted copy of special counsel Robert Mueller's report. "I will consult with counsel and determine the appropriate response," Mr Neal said in a statement on Monday. Mr Neal originally demanded access to Mr Trump's tax returns in early April under a law that says the IRS "shall furnish" the returns of any taxpayer to a handful of top lawmakers, including the chair of the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee. He maintains the committee is looking into the effectiveness of IRS mandatory audits of tax returns of all sitting presidents, a way to justify his claim that the panel has a potential legislative purpose. Democrats are confident in their legal justification and say Mr Trump is stalling in an attempt to punt the issue past the 2020 election. The White House and the Republican president's attorneys declined to comment on the deadline to turn over Mr Trump's returns. ( Independent News Service) The lie of "promises made, promises kept", a favourite phrase in US President Donald Trump's stump speech for re-election, is perhaps most apparent in his foreign misadventures. The candidate who scorned "regime change", and promised to end the policy of "intervention and chaos", is sowing chaos and intervening from Yemen to Iran to Venezuela and beyond. Instead of wasting money on endless wars, Trump would rebuild America's roads and bridges. The candidate who promised restraint has only delivered more calamitous intervention. Last week, Trump vetoed the bipartisan joint resolution of Congress directing the president to withdraw US support for the war in Yemen. This veto is a particularly execrable folly. The administration is continuing to support Saudi Arabia in its unconscionable savaging of that impoverished country, creating the worst humanitarian crisis in the world today. Fourteen million Yemenis are facing war-induced starvation. A cholera epidemic has broken out. After the Saudi regime assassinated 'Washington Post' contributing columnist Jamal Khashoggi inside its consulate in Istanbul, Congress - led by Ro Khanna, in the House, and Bernie Sanders and Mike Lee, in the Senate - backed a joint resolution, under the authority of the War Powers Resolution, directing the president to end complicity in this horror. Bipartisan majorities in both houses voted to end this shameful policy started under Barack Obama. Instead, Trump reasserted the claim of untrammelled executive prerogative in matters of war and peace, and vetoed the resolution. Sadly, Congress failed to overturn the veto. Meanwhile, the latest US-backed coup attempt in Venezuela has sputtered, tramples international law and gives lie to Trump's promise that "we will stop racing to topple foreign regimes that we know nothing about, that we shouldn't be involved with". The administration decided that the misrule by authoritarian Nicolas Maduro, whose election as president was marred by voting irregularities, must end. It rushed to support the president of the National Assembly, Juan Guaido, when the opposition leader announced that he was the legitimate leader of Venezuela. In an economy that has already shrunk by half over the past five years, sanctions have been tightened and tightened again, to the point that former UN special rapporteur Alfred de Zayas has called them "crimes against humanity". Trump announced that "all options were on the table". His truculent trio of advisers - National Security Adviser John Bolton, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and viperous special envoy Elliott Abrams - openly threatened US intervention. Frustrated by the public embarrassment of the failed coup, Pompeo warned that "military action is possible". Bolton asserts that "the Monroe Doctrine is alive and well. It's our hemisphere", and invokes the Roosevelt Corollary, claiming the US right of unilateral military intervention anywhere in the hemisphere. In 2015, Trump argued that "we're nation-building. We can't do it. We have to build our own nation". Now, his administration's aides are boasting about plans to revive the economy once Maduro is ousted. Venezuela is a bitterly divided nation of nearly 32 million people. If the administration's coup does succeed, horrific chaos is sure to follow. And the "endless wars" that Trump promised to end, continue - Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and so on. Libya is a failed state, mired in violence since the "humanitarian" intervention. Trump apparently believes that a bellicose position on Venezuela can help him win Florida in 2020. His broken promises about opposing regime change and ending endless wars should cost him far more. Iran's top security body dismissed as "psychological warfare" a US announcement that a carrier strike group and bombers are being sent to the Middle East as a message to Tehran, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported yesterday. US National Security Adviser John Bolton said on Sunday the United States was deploying the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East. "Bolton's statement is a clumsy use of a burnt-out happening for psychological warfare," Tasnim quoted Keyvan Khosravi, spokesman for the Supreme National Security Council, as saying. Mr Khosravi said the carrier had arrived in the Mediterranean weeks ago. US acting Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan said on Monday he had approved dispatching the carrier strike group and bombers due to indications of a "credible threat by Iranian regime forces". He provided no details of the underlying intelligence. Iran's state-run Press TV earlier said: "The deployment seems to be a 'regularly scheduled' one by the US navy, and Bolton has just tried to talk it up." Separately, a military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said the United States was "neither willing nor capable" with respect to an attack on Iran, the semi-official news agency ISNA reported. Brigadier General Hossein Dehgan said Washington would have a hard time convincing world opinion and regional countries to accept an all-out war against Iran, and to mobilise resources for such a conflict. Iranian newspapers and commentators have widely dismissed Washington's announcement as a "bluff" and "empty rhetoric". Meanwhile, Mike Pompeo, the US secretary of state, abruptly cancelled talks with Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, yesterday over "international security issues". Mr Pompeo had been due to meet Mrs Merkel and Heiko Maas, his German counterpart, in Berlin for talks on Ukraine, Russia, China, Syria and the western Balkans. But just hours beforehand, a US spokesman said the meeting had been scrapped due to scheduling reasons. German government sources later said the US had cited "international security issues" behind the decision. There were unconfirmed media reports last night that Mr Pompeo was headed for Iraq, the possible trip coming two days after the Pentagon announced that it had deployed the aircraft carrier strike group and a fleet of bombers to the Middle East. Norbert Roettgen, the German parliamentary foreign affairs committee chairman, said that "even if the reasons for the rejection are unavoidable, it unfortunately fits in with the current climate in the relationship between the two governments". Reporters travelling with the secretary of state were kept in the dark over their ultimate destination. Thats one reason Trump appointed him. The president, who is now the hero of anti-abortion groups, is someone who in his younger days proudly called himself very pro-choice. It was grimly comical to hear this serial adulterer, who endorses torture and is a stranger to the Bible, use his State of the Union address to call for building a culture that cherishes innocent life and to reaffirm a fundamental truth: all children born and unborn are made in the holy image of God. The single fatality in the Colorado high school shooting was Kendrick Castillo, 18, who leapt from his desk and charged the two attackers, sacrificing his life to buy classmates time to escape, authorities said. Eight other pupils were injured after two students opened fire at the school in Denver. The shooting at Highlands Ranch came nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the students walked into the school in a suburb of Denver and began shooting at students in two classrooms. Expand Close Vehicles block the road to the Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Vehicles block the road to the Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriff's department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Another 18-year-old preparing to enter the Marines also tackled the gunmen. An armed security guard then confronted and detained one of them. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimise the bloodshed from the attack, which also wounded eight people. "We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school," Mr Spurlock said Wednesday. Expand Close Armed police officers at the school (Courtney Harper via AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Armed police officers at the school (Courtney Harper via AP) The alleged attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a younger student who is a juvenile and was not named. They allegedly walked into the school through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. Student Nui Giasolli told NBC's Today show that she was in her literature class when Erickson came in late and pulled out a gun. Expand Close A law officer protects a busload of students at a recreation centre (David Zalubowski/AP / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A law officer protects a busload of students at a recreation centre (David Zalubowski/AP Castillo lunged at the gunman, who shot the teenager. Castillo's swift action gave the rest of the class time to get underneath their desks and then run across the room to escape, Giasolli said. Castillo worked part-time at a local manufacturing company. "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since primary school and said he was always friendly, modest and pleased to help people. "He was amazing," Bedard said. "He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke." Brendan Bialy, 18, who was enrolled in a delayed-entry programme for the Marines, charged the gunmen as well, helping fight them off, according to authorities and witnesses. "His decisive actions resulted in the safety and protection of his teachers and fellow classmates," Marine Captain Michael Maggiti said. Then, as the gunmen moved through the 1,800-student campus, an armed security guard detained one of them, Mr Spurlock said. The guard was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former Swat team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Mr Whitus said. "He doesn't even realise how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting," he added. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Mr Spurlock said. Erickson was due to appear in court later Wednesday. Douglas County District Attorney George Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including Columbine, the 2012 theatre shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are "aberrant acts" although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. "Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us. It won't today and it won't tomorrow," he said. Former self-help guru Keith Raniere on trial on charges of running a secretive New York sex cult that recruited female "slaves" (Photo: You Tube) A former member of the cultlike Nxivm organization will resume testifying at founder Keith Raniere's criminal trial on Wednesday, as prosecutors detail allegations that he recruited women as sex slaves under the guise of self-improvement. The woman, a 32-year-old Briton who testified only using her first name, "Sylvie," to protect her identity, described in US District Court in Brooklyn on Tuesday how she was gradually drawn into Raniere's orbit, only to eventually become a "slave" in a secret sex cult within Nxivm. Prosecutors say Raniere forced numerous women to have sex with him - including a 15-year-old girl - and branded them with his initials. Raniere has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, child pornography and other crimes. He faces life in prison if convicted. His lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, argued in his opening statement on Tuesday that the women joined Nxivm knowing it would be demanding, and that Raniere never forced them to act against their will. Nxivm, which started under another name in 1998 and is pronounced "Nexium," was based in Albany, New York, and at one time operated numerous self-improvement centers across North and Central America. Sylvie told jurors on Tuesday that she first enrolled in a Nxivm class in 2005, starting an on-and-off relationship with the group that intensified around 2012, when she decided to pursue elite running under Raniere's instruction. In 2015, she said, she married another Nxivm member, John, and the couple agreed to remain celibate for two years at Raniere's direction. Around the same time, a Nxivm member named Monica Duran offered her the chance to join a "master-slave program," which would help her overcome her fears through submitting herself to Duran's orders at all times. Duran eventually told her to "seduce" Raniere, and she complied, starting with texts and then progressing to nude photographs. The program was a secret sorority known as DOS, an acronym for a Latin phrase that roughly means "master of the obedient female companions," according to prosecutors. Slaves were assigned to masters, who in turn answered to Raniere, prosecutors said. Participants were forced to provide potential blackmail material, or "collateral," such as explicit videos or damaging information. Agnifilo told jurors the collateral was used to confirm the women's commitment but was never intended to be released. Raniere is standing trial alone after five co-defendants, including Bronfman and former "Smallville" star Allison Mack, pleaded guilty to related crimes. Parents hug as they wait for their children at the recreation centre where students were reunited with their parents after a shooting (David Zalubowski/AP) A teenager was killed and eight students injured after two students opened fire at a school in Denver, Colorado. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the pair walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch and began shooting students in two classrooms. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriffs department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Expand Close Vehicles block the road to the STEM Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Vehicles block the road to the STEM Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) As officers were arriving at the school, they could still hear gunshots, Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said. Authorities have identified one of the suspects as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. Mr Spurlock said the second suspect is a juvenile and that both attended the school and neither were previously known to authorities. I have to believe that the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives I have to believe that the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives, he said. The shooting comes nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. The two schools are separated by about seven miles in adjacent communities south of Denver. Expand Close A law officer protects a busload of students at a recreation centre (David Zalubowski/AP / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A law officer protects a busload of students at a recreation centre (David Zalubowski/AP Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence, White House spokesman Judd Deere said in a statement. US president Donald Trump had been briefed on the shooting and was in touch with state and local officials, he said. As the gunfire rang out, students ran through the halls shouting School shooter! Some wondered at first if it was a joke or a drill. At the moment no one really knew what was going on so I didnt know they were bullets, said pupil Sophia Marks. I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs. Chris Elledge, 15, said his teacher told the class to hide behind weight equipment in the room, where they stayed until police arrived. They busted in the room, and they were asking if there was any suspects in the room, if we were OK, and they escorted us out to go out to the front of the building, he said. Three hospitals reported treating eight people in connection with the attack, including two who were listed in serious condition. "It is not enough to send thoughts and prayers, it is empty, it is weak, and it does an injustice to our children who are on the frontlines of this violence," Crow said in a statement. https://t.co/k7reUdMZqJ Jason Crow (@JasonCrowCO) May 8, 2019 Democratic Representative Jason Crow, a gun-control supporter whose congressional district includes STEM, said the gun violence cannot continue. It is not enough to send thoughts and prayers. It is empty. It is weak, and it does an injustice to our children who are on the front lines of this violence, he said. One of the two suspects in the Colorado school shooting has appeared in court, with his head bowed and hair shielding his face. Devon Erickson, 18, made his first court appearance on Wednesday, shackled at the waist with his hands cuffed as he sat in a courtroom flanked by two defence lawyers. Erickson nodded frequently in answer to the judges questions. He is scheduled to return to court on Friday, when charges are expected to be filed. His court appearance came as Kendrick Castillo, 18, was named as the single fatality. He leapt from his desk and charged the two alleged attackers, sacrificing his life to buy classmates time to escape, authorities said. Eight other pupils were injured after two students opened fire at the school in Denver on Tuesday. The shooting at Highlands Ranch came nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the grim 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre that killed 13 people. Douglas County Coroner Jill Roman has identified the deceased victim of the STEM School shooting as Kendrick Ray Castillo, 03/14/2001. We ask that the media please respect the family's privacy at this time. #STEMshooting DC Sheriff (@dcsheriff) May 8, 2019 Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the students walked into the school in a suburb of Denver and began shooting at pupils in two classrooms. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriffs department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Another teenager preparing to enter the Marines also tackled the gunmen. An armed security guard then confronted and detained one of them. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimise the bloodshed from the attack, which also wounded eight people. Were going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school, Mr Spurlock said Wednesday. The alleged attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as Devon Erickson and a younger student who is a juvenile and was not named. They allegedly walked into the school through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine and just weeks after the shootings 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. Student Nui Giasolli told NBCs Today show that she was in her literature class when one of the suspects came in late and pulled out a gun. Expand Close Vehicles block the road to the Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Vehicles block the road to the Highlands Ranch school(David Zalubowski/AP) Castillo lunged at the gunman, who shot the teenager. Castillos swift action gave the rest of the class time to get underneath their desks and then run across the room to escape, Giasolli said. Castillo worked part-time at a local manufacturing company. To find he went down as a hero, Im not surprised. Thats exactly who Kendrick was, said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since primary school and said he was always friendly, modest and pleased to help people. He was amazing, Bedard said. He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke. Honored to meet & thank the Douglas CO 911 Comms Officers who handled the very 1st calls about the STEM shooting. Thanks to their behind the scenes professionalism & efficient action, our law enforcement officers were able to respond in under 2 minutes to protect the students. pic.twitter.com/32PphgqUyU Governor Jared Polis (@GovofCO) May 8, 2019 Brendan Bialy, 18, who was enrolled in a delayed-entry programme for the Marines, charged the gunmen as well, helping fight them off, according to authorities and witnesses. His decisive actions resulted in the safety and protection of his teachers and fellow classmates, Marine Captain Michael Maggiti said. Then, as the gunmen moved through the 1,800-student campus, an armed security guard detained one of them, Mr Spurlock said. The guard was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former Swat team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Mr Whitus said. He doesnt even realise how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting, he added. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Mr Spurlock said. Douglas County District Attorney George Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including Columbine, the 2012 theatre shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are aberrant acts although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us. It wont today and it wont tomorrow, he said. Students take part in a "youth strike to act on climate change" demonstration in Nice, France, March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Eric Gaillard/File Photo Students take part in a "youth strike to act on climate change" demonstration in Nice, France, March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Eric Gaillard/File Photo Climate change activists lock themselves at the gate of the Houses of Parliament during an Extinction Rebellion protest in London, Britain May 3, 2019. REUTERS/Toby Melville/File Photo The National Trust have decided they now need to conduct a yearly census of the number of puffins on the remote Farne Islands in Northumberland instead of every 5 years, due to climate change which is causing a decline in readily available food. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday May 7, 2019. See PA story ENVIRONMENT Puffins. Photo credit should read: Owen Humphreys /PA Wire The science is in: the endless pursuit of economic growth is devouring the foundations of life on Earth, and no country rich or poor can expect to escape dire consequences if things go on as they are. So how might the world change course? Though still confined to the fringes, a globally dispersed but tight-knit coalition of economists, grass-roots organisers, business leaders and politicians, along with some investors, have begun to sketch out an answer. The vision: a new relationship between the state, local communities and nature aligned behind a more holistic notion of progress than gross domestic product (GDP), the established yardstick for economies as different as those of the United States and Mozambique. "No country on Earth is doing what is required to make sure we get towards an economic system capable of confronting the twin challenges of ecological collapse and climate change," said Laurie Laybourn-Langton, an associate fellow at London's Institute for Public Policy Research and lead author of a new report on environmental breakdown titled This Is A Crisis. Expand Close Climate change activists lock themselves at the gate of the Houses of Parliament during an Extinction Rebellion protest in London, Britain May 3, 2019. REUTERS/Toby Melville/File Photo / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Climate change activists lock themselves at the gate of the Houses of Parliament during an Extinction Rebellion protest in London, Britain May 3, 2019. REUTERS/Toby Melville/File Photo "There are, though, a number of ideas and small-scale projects being done that arguably if scaled up could deal with the problem," he said. One of those gaining traction was measuring progress in other terms than GDP, which, in essence, measures the market value of a country's goods and services. More broadly, Laybourn-Langton, 30, and other champions of 'new economics' argue that it is time to acknowledge that the state must play the central role in marshalling a response to looming systemic environmental shocks. Expand Close Students take part in a "youth strike to act on climate change" demonstration in Nice, France, March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Eric Gaillard/File Photo / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Students take part in a "youth strike to act on climate change" demonstration in Nice, France, March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Eric Gaillard/File Photo But rather than harking back to the nationalisation and executive wage caps of 1970s left-wing politics, they think governments should support communities to create new, participatory forms of economic activity that can tackle social inequality while also restoring planetary health. Candidates include: locally-run clean energy projects, worker-owned cooperatives, many kinds of progressive businesses, and regenerative agriculture or rewilding practices that could grow exponentially in a favourable policy environment. New economic indicators could also be developed through democratic consultations to measure advances in fairness, health or sustainability, building on examples such as the Genuine Progress Indicator, an early attempt to devise a more rounded alternative to GDP. While many businesses and local groups are pursuing variants of these initiatives, the philosophy is most visible in the Green New Deal. Proposed by U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who is backed by the youth-led Sunrise Movement, it aims to marry social justice with the renewable energy and climate agenda. Orthodox economists from across the U.S. political spectrum have countered that the existing system simply needs a tweak in the form of a carbon tax and rebate system to cut emissions, while Republicans and some investors have subjected the Green New Deal to a barrage of criticism. "It is a 70-, 80-, 90-trillion dollar ... socialist takeover of energy," Jonathan Hoenig of the Capitalist Pig hedge fund told Fox Business in March. "It really is socialism writ large." Nevertheless, two monumental, multi-year scientific studies have found that the corporate-led assault on the web of life is accelerating so fast that it is too late for mere tinkering. Expand Close A security guard watches from a coal heap during a climate change protest at Ratcliffe Power Station at Ratcliffe-on-Soar, central England October 17, 2009. REUTERS/Darren Staples/File Photo / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A security guard watches from a coal heap during a climate change protest at Ratcliffe Power Station at Ratcliffe-on-Soar, central England October 17, 2009. REUTERS/Darren Staples/File Photo In October, the U.N.-sponsored Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded that only a profound economic transformation would allow the world to curb carbon emissions quickly enough to limit global warming. On Monday, a parallel 130-nation scientific study said industrial society has pushed a million species to the brink of extinction. Plants and animals are vanishing tens to hundreds of times faster than during the past 10 million years, the 145 expert authors found. Eduardo Brondizio, an anthropologist who co-chaired the report said it was time to abandon a growth-at-all-costs mindset: "'Business as usual' has to end." Among the questions dividing the 'new economists' is whether the risk of catastrophic climate change is now so acute that economic growth should be suspended altogether in order to cut greenhouse gas emissions fast. Some still see room for sustainable 'green growth', but others want governments to oversee sharp reductions in consumption now, to avoid what they fear would be a descent into a 21st-century Dark Age. While nobody disputes the challenge of rewiring the world economy, an upsurge in climate activism, including a global school strike movement and an international civil disobedience campaign by Extinction Rebellion, is sparking new conversations. Expand Close Students take part in a "youth strike to act on climate change" demonstration in Nice, France, March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Eric Gaillard/File Photo / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Students take part in a "youth strike to act on climate change" demonstration in Nice, France, March 15, 2019. REUTERS/Eric Gaillard/File Photo The confluence of panic in the eyes of young people with hard science is opening up the debate in the mainstream like it hasnt before," said Katherine Trebeck, an Australian political scientist who co-founded the Wellbeing Economy Alliance, a network of academics, businesses and social movements. Trebeck's new co-authored book, The Economics of Arrival, cites dozens of innovations in places from Scotland to Costa Rica and Denmark, Portugal and Alaska. While the investment opportunities in such projects largely remain trivial, some major funds do see the need for change. "We face a form of capitalism that has hardened its focus to short-term profit maximisation with little or no apparent interest in social good," Jeremy Grantham, co-founder of global investment manager GMO, wrote last August. "Were racing to protect not just our portfolios, not just our grandchildren, but our species. So get to it." Saturday, May 11 Life Giving Church of God, Concord will be having its annual Mother Daughter Breakfast at 9 a.m. This event is free to the public and will be held at the Parkwood Baptist Church Ministry Center, 1069 Central Drive, Concord. Pastor Y.T. McNeill from the New Restoration Church, Kannapolis will be the keynote speaker. All are invited to come for a morning of worship, praise, the word, food, giveaways, and much more. For more details call 704-425-7635. Lowesville Gospel Concerts at Living Word Ministries, 1062 South Hwy 16, Stanley (Lowesville, presents The Bledsoes from Dobson plus The Coffmans from Danville KY. A freewill offering only to be received, and you are invited. Contact Carroll Cooke 704-618-9762 for more information. Sunday, May 12 Rev. Robert P. Mathis, Jr. and the Missionary Society of Price Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church will hold a special Mother's Day service during the 11 a.m. worship hour. Rev. Karen Langston-Byers, Associate Pastor of First Christian Church, Concord, will bring the morning message. Price Memorial is located at 192 Spring Str. SW, Concord. The public is cordially invited to attend this service that will honor all mothers. In a week when many across the region became 49ers, Kannapolis City Schools paused to honor the victims of the shooting at UNC Charlotte on April 30, and send their heartfelt condolences to everyone in Niner Nation. Staff and students honored UNC Charlotte through messages, posts, and by wearing 49er gear. District officials said they are proud of the great things happening in Kannapolis City Schools, and lovelove the overwhelming show of support students and staff showed for their friends at UNC Charlotte. Other schools go green for Charlotte Other schools in the county also shared support for the college by wearing green. Students at Concord High School wore 49ers colors and shared inspirational hashtags on a poster, while R. Brown McAllister Elementary School students and staff also wore green to stand behind the university during this emotional time. The last date for filing GST returns and GST audit report for fiscal year 2017-18 is June 30, 2019. The Goods and Services tax (GST) system requires taxpayers to self-assess their tax liability and pay their tax without any intervention by the tax authorities. The law provides for a robust audit mechanism to measure and ensure compliance by the taxable person. The GST audit checks the accuracy of information furnished, taxes discharged, refund claimed and input tax credit availed by the individual taxpayer. For fiscal year 2017-18, Indias GST council in December 2018 extended the last date for filing GST returns and GST audit report by three months to June 30, 2019. In this article, we discuss the types of audit available under the GST regime in India and how to manage them. Audit by chartered accountants or cost accountants The GST law requires every registered taxable person whose turnover during a financial year exceeds the prescribed limit of INR 2 crore (US $280,131), to get their accounts audited by a chartered accountant or a cost accountant. To file the audit, the taxpayer must submit the following documents electronically: an annual return using the form GSTR 9 by December 31 of the next financial year (the government has extended the due date for filling 2017-18 annual returns, and the related audited reports to June 30, 2019) ; a copy of audited annual accounts; a certified reconciliation statement in the form GSTR-9C, reconciling the value of supplies declared in the return with the audited annual financial statement; and any other particulars as prescribed under the law. In this category of audit, the government prescribes different types of annual return: GSTR-9 is for regular taxpayers and GSTR-9A is for composition scheme. Taxpayers must note that the annual return is applicable to all registered persons in GST except input service distributors, casual taxable persons, non-resident taxable persons, and persons liable to deduct tax at source. For the reconciliation statement, it is advisable for GST registered entities to have a copy and maintain their accounts as a proof to show correctness with regard to the following: Production of the goods (Taxable Inward supply of goods and/or service or both Taxable Outward supply of goods and/or services or both); Stock of goods; Input tax credit availed; and Output tax payable and paid. General GST audit This is a general audit of the business transaction. Here, the commissioner or any other officer authorized by the commission may undertake the audit of any registered person for such period, at such frequency, and in such manner as prescribed under the GST Law. Audit information and time-frame The audit may be conducted at the place of business of the registered person or in the office of the commissioner or officer authorized by the commissioner. The time-frame for carrying out the audit is three months. The officials serve registered taxpayers an advance notice at least 15 days prior to the audit commencement. Starting from this day, the audit must be completed within three months. In special cases, the authorized officer can extend the time-period for audit completion by not more than six months. During the course of GST audit, the authorized officer may require the registered person to: Provide the necessary facility to verify the books of account or other documents as required; and Furnish such information as required and render assistance for timely completion of the audit. Special GST audit An officer above the rank of assistant commissioner may call for a special GST audit to examine and audit records of a registered taxpayer, including books of account if the regular audit reveals disparities in the taxpayers records. These disparities may include: Incomplete audit; Discrepancies observed in the liability with the intention to evade tax; or Incorrect revenue declaration. A chartered accountant or cost accountant, nominated by the tax commissioner, carries out the special audit process. The officials can order a special audit during any stage of scrutiny, inquiry, investigation or any other proceedings, considering the nature and complexity of the case and in the interest of revenue. Rectification in return based on GST audit results If any taxable person, after having furnished a return discovers any omission or incorrect details from the audit results, the taxpayer can rectify the information, subject to payment of interest. However, no rectification is allowed after the tax filing is completed for the month of September, or the second quarter following the end of the financial year, or the actual date of tax filing of the relevant annual return, whichever is earlier. How to prepare for the GST audit and annual return filing Companies that have a presence in multiple locations, in the form of a subsidiary or branches across the country, must compute annual turnover on all India PAN basis. The GST Law treats every entity of a company located in more than one state or union territory as distinct. This means that if the company is registered in more than one state or union territory, and the aggregate turnover from all such states exceeds INR 2 crore (US $281,160), then the company must get state-wise accounts audited under the GST law. Aggregate turnover includes the value of all exempt supplies and exports under the same PAN, on an all India basis. In cases, where companies have multiple GSTIN state-wise registrations on the same PAN, traders and dealers must internally derive their turnover GSTIN-wise and declare the amount in the Form GSTR-9C. To avoid last minute rush and complexity, it is essential for companies to plan and ensure that the records and documents of each of its subsidiaries and branches are prepared according to the GSTIN number before the filing of annual GST returns. Failing to maintain branch-wise financial statements can make GST auditing a cumbersome process. Companies that have multiple registrations within the state, too, must maintain separate accounts as the law requires companies to file a reconciliation statement separately for each (GSTIN) registration within the state. One of our only chances for surviving is to have a space in which to share our beer and culture, he said. I know Im South Side guy to a lot of people, but Ive been doing stuff throughout Chicago my whole life. To me this is just going back to my old neighborhood and doing a project there. WASHINGTON, D.C -- The U.S. House of Representatives was scheduled to pass two pro-tribal bills on Wednesday. Then President Donald Trump tweeted about it by using a racial slur and both were pulled from consideration. We needed significant Republican support to get these bills approved today, and apparently the president tweeting a racial slur was compelling enough to give them cold feet," Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Arizona) said this afternoon. Its my intention to move both of these bills forward soon, and were currently evaluating our options for other avenues to passage," Grijalva said. The two bills are: The continued attacks on Indian Country and @SenWarren by Trump are disgusting, and Trump's repeated Pocahontas racial slur shows he knows nothing about working with tribes. The American people know this stems from Trump's racist ideology and will not stand for it. Raul M. Grijalva (@RepRaulGrijalva) May 8, 2019 "I stand with my friends Bill Keating and Tom Cole in supporting Indian Country, and I have no intention of letting the presidents gutter commentary derail the peoples business, Grijalva said of the sponsors of the two bills that were pulled. Rep. William Keating (D-Massachusetts) is the sponsor of H.R.312. The bill has the backing of the entire Congressional delegation in Massachusetts. Earlier today, Trump tweeted : "Republicans shouldnt vote for H.R. 312, a special interest casino Bill, backed by Elizabeth (Pocahontas) Warren. It is unfair and doesnt treat Native Americans equally!" Trump has frequently employed the racial slur to taunt Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts), a popular lawmaker who is one of his political opponents. She is now seeking the Democratic nomination for president and has rebuked his use of the name of Pocahontas , a Native woman who was taken away from her people by European colonizers in the early 1600s. "She never made it home," Warren said of Pocahontas , who was known among her people in the Powhatan Confederacy as Matoaka, and later, Amonute. "She was about 21 when she died, an ocean separating her from her people." During the last session of Congress, Warren was a co-sponsor of the Senate version of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Reservation Reaffirmation Act . A new version has not been introduced in her chamber but Republicans and the conservative media have repeatedly derided H.R.312 as a "Warren" bill. Both H.R.312 and H.R.375 were approved by House Committee on Natural Resources during a markup session last week. The votes on each measure were bipartisan although all the no votes came from Republicans. Despite the misgivings, both bills were expected to pass the House on Wednesday. They were scheduled for consideration under a suspension of the rules, according to the House Majority Leader's schedule , a process that usually allows legislation to be approved by a simple voice vote. But Republicans have been forcing roll calls on the few tribal bills that have come up for passage in the chamber so far in the 116th Congress. The tallies have shown that a small but consistent group of Republicans are voting against Indian Country legislation. "My Land, My Future": young tribal citizens take part in a #StandWithMashpee rally at the U.S. Capitol on November 14, 2018. Photo by Indianz.Com (CC BY-NC-SA 4.0) Join the Conversation Related Stories Federal bill raises awareness about MMIW Cherokee Nation At Cherokee Nation, the largest tribal government in America, we recognize and respect women as life givers, culture bearers and the caretakers of our people. Their health, wellness and safety must be protected at all levels of government tribal, state and federal. We are grateful for support of The Not Invisible Act of 2019 H.R.2438 ), a bipartisan bill to increase national focus on the silent crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women. Introduced by U.S. Representatives Deb Haaland, Tom Cole, Markwayne Mullin and Sharice Davids, all citizens of federally recognized tribes , the bill will not only create national awareness of this epidemic, it will implement new measures to stop it. The bill establishes an advisory committee on violent crime comprised of law enforcement, tribal leaders, federal partners, service providers and survivors, who will make recommendations to the Department of Interior and Department of Justice. If passed, the Act would create a position for an expert within the Bureau of Indian Affairs who would be responsible for improving coordination of violent crime prevention efforts across all federal agencies. We at Cherokee Nation, a matrilineal tribe, support this effort and are thankful for the leadership, including the two Representatives from Oklahoma, for taking the lead on this critical issue. It is crucial that we not wait any longer to raise awareness about violence against Native Americans, especially women and children. The statistics are shocking. RECAP: My Bills to Address Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women #MMIW #SilentCrisis https://t.co/mNDNyGCHdB Rep. Deb Haaland (@RepDebHaaland) May 6, 2019 Data from the National Institute of Justice and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 4 out of 5 American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime. One of the leading causes of death for Indian women between ages 10 and 34 is homicide. American Indian and women experience murder rates 10 times the national average. Nationally, non-Native men commit the majority of assaults against Native women. Every Cherokee woman - every American Indian woman for that matter - has the absolute right to feel safe. As sovereign tribal nations, we must step forward and say these current realities can no longer be tolerated. To say Cherokee women are an essential part of our tribe is an understatement, as 70 percent of our tribal workforce is women. They are strong leaders who drive our government forward and often do so while juggling family responsibilities. They are environmental stewards, physicians, soldiers, artists and policy makers. They are our mothers, grandmothers, wives, sisters and daughters. To appreciate Cherokee heritage and culture is to appreciate the role women have played in our historical and political past, as well as our future for the next seven generations. For the protection of Native families and communities, the passage of this Act is necessary. With best practices being shared and the proposed advisory committee, we can successfully address the crisis that has plagued our tribes for decades. We can drive down the numbers through education, awareness and with better policing and prosecuting tools. Recently, President Trump issued a proclamation recognizing Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives Awareness Day. I would urge other tribal leaders throughout Indian Country to support this important piece of legislation because passage of the Not Invisible Act of 2019 is vital to our collective future. Previous efforts in Congress to reduce crime in Indian Country, including the Tribal Law and Order Act and Violence Against Women Act, have strengthened and improved our tribal justice systems. These successful laws complement the purpose of the MMIW bill that is before Congress now. Bill John Baker currently serves as the 17th elected chief of the Cherokee Nation, the largest Indian tribe in the United States. Born and raised in Cherokee County, he is married to Sherry (Robertson) Baker. Principal Chief Baker has devoted much of his life in service to the Cherokee people. He spent 12 years as a member of the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council and was elected Principal Chief in October 2011. Join the Conversation Related Stories A 'majority of nations' agree on Arctic climate; U.S. is again the exception United States rejects joint statement over 'climate change' references Indian Country Today Monday was quite a day for the United States. The Trump administration all but ignored a comprehensive scientific study on the mass extinction of plants and animals caused by humans and climate change. Then Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo was in Rovaniemi, Finland, at the Arctic Council where he spoke about the challenges in the Arctic in largely economic and military terms. This is Americas moment to stand up as an Arctic nation and for the Arctics future. Because far from the barren backcountry, he said, the Arctic is at the forefront of opportunity and abundance. It houses 13 percent of the worlds undiscovered oil, 30 percent of its undiscovered gas, and an abundance of uranium, rare earth minerals, gold, diamonds, and millions of square miles of untapped resources. Fisheries galore. And the challenges of climate change? Steady reductions in sea ice are opening new passageways and new opportunities for trade, Pompeo said. This could potentially slash the time it takes to travel between Asia and the West by as much as 20 days. Arctic sea lanes could come before could come the 21s century Suez and Panama Canals. Most of his speech was a warning against increasing Russian and Chinese activity in the region. The Trump administrations position on the Arctic raises so many questions about Indigenous governance (and knowledge). How in the world can a government set a course to make money on a changing climate all the while avoiding a strategy to deal with its consequences? The #Arctic Council is a forum for #indigenous peoples to actively participate in decision-making and development in the Arctic region. Learn more about the Council's Permanent Participants: https://t.co/tyk5hOZU9Y pic.twitter.com/YTUCc7WW3K Arctic Council (@ArcticCouncil) May 7, 2019 Indeed: Normally the nations that make up the Arctic Council -- including six Indigenous permanent members representing the Aleut, Inuit, Athabaskan, Gwichin, Sami, and Russian Indigenous Peoples of the North -- come up with a shared statement about the challenges of climate change. Not this year. The meeting ended with a joint statement that only called for a continued commitment to maintain the Arctic as a region of peace, stability and constructive cooperation. The United States refused to sign a ministerial statement because of wording that climate change was a "serious threat to the Arctic." It was the first time a declaration had been cancelled since the Arctic Council was formed in 1996. However the outgoing chairman of the council, Timo Soini, foreign minister of Finland, did take up the cause of climate change. He issued a statement that a majority of us regarded climate change as a fundamental challenge facing the Arctic and acknowledged the urgent need to take mitigation and adaptation actions and to strengthen resilience, and welcomed the outcomes of the UNFCCC COP24 in Katowice, including the Paris agreement ... The sentence was kind. It should have said instead of a majority that all but the United States agreed on issues of climate change. Even in a direct interview with a Finnish newspaper , Pompeo would not use the words climate change. He said we can call it whatever we like, but I shared some of the data in the speech. The United States is kicking it when it comes to getting its CO2 down. I mean, compare it to China, compare it to Russia, compare it, frankly, to many European nations, each of whom signed the Paris agreement. But in the Arctic kicking it must not include the very sea lanes the secretary was eager to exploit. The Arctic is already warming faster than the rest of the planet. All of the eight nations in the Arctic Council did reaffirm its support for Indigenous participation in the international body (something other world organizations ought to try) and reaffirmed the principle of consultation. And Secretary Pompeo in his remarks made a mention of Indigenous people as being a part of the place. Indigenous peoples have lived in the Arctic for generations, well before there was an America to speak of, he said. But nothing about consultation, or more important, governance. The economic boom that the secretary wants will not happen without significant contributions from the Arctics Indigenous people and that will require free, prior, and informed consent. Yet in the oddest portion of the speech, Pompeo referred to Indigenous people by asking: Do we want Arctic nations broadly, or Indigenous communities specifically, to go the way of former government in Sri Lanka or Malaysia, ensnared by debt and corruption? What does that mean? We do not know. Indian Country Today will reach out to the State Department for a clarification. Mark Trahant is the editor of Indian Country Today . He is a member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes . Follow him on Twitter @TrahantReports This story originally appeared on Indian Country Today on May 7, 2019. Join the Conversation Modi government wants to be on same page as Trump administration to sideline Islamabad, but increasing proximity with Israel as well as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, all of which have hostile relations with Iran, cannot be ignored either. According to a section of the US media, the United States forces have sent aircraft carriers to the middle-east in yet another sign of escalating tension with Iran. This comes just days after the United States decision to not extend the six months exemptions given to eight countries, including India, from the embargo on export of oil from Iran became effective from May 2. What is intriguing is that unlike previous occasions this time, India has publicly announced to halt the oil imports from the Persian Gulf nation. afp No sooner than the news of Trump administrations decision came, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan tweeted that the government has already worked an alternate robust plan for an adequate supply of crude oil to Indian refineries. Govt has put in place a robust plan for adequate supply of crude oil to Indian refineries.There will be additional supplies from other major oil producing countries;Indian refineries are fully prepared to meet the national demand for petrol,diesel & other Petroleum products Chowkidar Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) April 23, 2019 India, in the past, maintained steady supply of oil from Iran despite sanctions, retorting to cash transfer through accounts in UCO Bank, or even ancient barter system. While these options are still open, besides paying to the third country from which Iran imports goods, this time India is reducing the supply to bare minimum, if not halt it completely. News agency PTI quoted a top official of the government as saying, Until the waivers are not restored back, I don't think India can buy oil from Iran. We will stop importing oil from Iran. The official further added that they hope that India will be allowed exemption, but purchases cannot be made in anticipation. We will not be importing any oil from Iran. Cut in Oil Import from Iran Although India is the third largest consumer of energy in the world, it is also energy hungry, and needs to import two-third of its oil requirements. Till 2010-11, Iran was the second largest supplier of the oil to India, after Saudi Arabia. But the import figure has since gradually gone down substantially although it still remained the third largest supplier last year. reuters In absolute terms, just in last two years, the oil import from Iran has come down from 27.14 million tonnes in 2016-2017 to 17.62 million tonnes in 2018-2019. According to the news agency Reuters, oil imports from the Persian Gulf nation was down by 57% year-on-year in April itself, and at least 31% less from the previous month. In fact, by December 2018, the oil import from Iran had dropped by 63%, interestingly with the simultaneous rise of 53% in import from Saudi Arabia. Why is India too willing to Cut Import from Iran? According to media reports, US administration had wanted Indias assurance on supporting oil-sanctions on Iran in lieu of their efforts at the United Nations Security Council to list Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. Azhar was put in the list after China withdrew its veto on May 1, a day before the exemption ended. China, meanwhile, hoped for New Delhis silence on the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It is clear that the Narendra Modi government wants to be on same page as Trump administration to sideline Islamabad. But Indias increasing proximities with Israel as well as with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), all of which have hostile relations with Iran, maybe as important factors behind the decision. reuters It would be interesting to note here that at a conversation at Asia Society in April, after the US announcement, the Foreign Minister of Iran Javed Zarif blamed the B-Team US National Security Adviser John Bolton, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed for stirring up trouble for Iran in the region and for pushing the US toward disaster in spite of Donald Trumps campaign promise not to get involved in expensive foreign wars. Alternative Options for India While India has always shared very cordial relations with most West Asian countries by not interfering in their rivalries with each other, it has assiduously developed very close bilateral strategic relations with the KSA and the UAE in last couple of years, besides Israel, that expand beyond trade to counter-terrorism operations. PM Modi, it should be pointed, has received the highest honours in both these countries, despite his and his partys complex relations with Indias Muslims. KSA has in fact traditionally been Indias top oil supplier although for last two consecutive years Iraq tripped it to become the number one exporter. Saudi foreign minister had assured India last year itself that the Kingdom was committed to meet any shortfall that may arise due to sanctions on Iran, while praising PM Modi at the India Energy Forum. The Ratnagiri Refinery & Petrochemicals Ltd (RRPCL) has, in fact, signed MoUs with Saudi ARAMCO and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) for jointly building one of worlds largest integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex in Maharashtra. Import from UAE and USA have also gone high in recent years although none can really match the concessional prices that Tehran could offer, besides the reduced cost in freight charges due to close proximity. reuters India also imports oil from Kuwait, Nigeria, USA and the South American nation of Venezuela. The double whammy for India and all other oil importing countries, however, is that besides Iran, the USA has put new sanctions on Venezuela as well. New Delhi is also eyeing new markets inducing Guyana. Choosing sides in the volatile West Asia would not be a pragmatic choice for New Delhi. It should draw lessons from Islamabad that has very close ties with Sunni KSA and UAE, but in recent years it has simultaneously developed good relations with Shia Iran as well. It has even built a pipeline for natural gas that was originally supposed to reach India as well, but New Delhi brushed aside the Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) project after opposition from the Washington DC. Impact on Indo-Iran Relations India and Iran share historical and civilisational relations, and have traditionally been all weather friends. Despite international sanctions they not only maintained friendly bilateral relations, but worked together in Afghanistan and on other connectivity projects, most importantly the International North South Corridor and the ambitious Chabahar Port project as part of its Connect Central Asia policy. Trump administration has made it clear that the multi-billion Chabahar port project, through which India hopes to bypass Pakistan, would continue to enjoy exemption and would not be affected by current impasse. It should be mentioned here that China has been eyeing Chabahar too for the expansion of the BRI. In past, Iran too had expressed frustrations after very slow progress on the project, even hinting that countries like China too can join the project. Chabahar had finally gained momentum after the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Iran in May 2016, while President Hassan Rouhani reciprocated with three days visit to India in February 2018. Officials from Iran, India and Afghanistan have held series of trilateral meetings as well in recent months to extract maximum benefit from Chabahar. reuters But Indias decision to halt oil import would definitely contribute majorly towards further choking an already crippled economy of Iran since it is the second largest buyer of Iranian oil, after only China. New Delhi may thus end up damaging bilateral relations with Tehran and alienate a close regional ally, adversely impacting its connectivity projects as well, at a time when the negotiations with Taliban on peace deal in Afghanistan has reached a critical phase. Rays of Hopes? Although India has hinted at cutting its oil supply from the Persian Gulf nation, it has officially also maintained that any decision will be based on three factors commercial consideration, energy security and economic security interests. New Delhi is also gearing up to host senior Iranian officials for the fifth round of negotiations for a bilateral preferential trade agreement (PTA). This shows that India is not willing to let the current sanctions affect bilateral relations with Iran. Once PTA becomes operational, India can reduce the current trade imbalance with Iran. The import figure for 2017-2018 was USD 11.11 billion owing to oil imports (besides fertilisers, chemicals, etc.), while India exported goods (cereals, tea, coffee, spices, etc.) worth only USD 2.65 billion. Like India, Turkey, China and other oil importing countries are going to be adversely affected, and hence they should jointly work to resist the US pressure. There are reports that the two Asian powerhouse and traditional rivals China and India may quietly be working on to work on a momentous deal for setting up a buyers bloc as counterweight to the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). As second and third largest importer of oil and major economic powers, if these two Asian countries come together and possibly also take Turkey on board - they can not only dictate prices in their favour, but also outsmart the US and OPECs hoodwinking. If only, New Delhi is not willing to allow anyone particularly the B-Team to destroy decades of goodwill that India has cultivated in the region. (M Reyaz is PhD in International Studies and currently working on an ICSSR-IMPRESS sponsored project on Indias Soft Power. He teaches at Aliah University and is a senior adjunct researcher at the think-tank Asia in Global Affairs. He tweets at @journalistreyaz) In a tragic incident, an Indian man working at the Kuwait Airport was run over by an empty Boeing 777 aircraft while it was being towed away. The freak accident happened on Monday after the tow bar used to tow the empty Boeing 777 from the airport yard to the terminal snapped. The victim, identified as Anand Ramachandran, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala was overseeing the operation when he was crushed under the wheels of the Boeing 777. Confirming the incident, Kuwait Airways said an investigation has been launched into the matter. REPRESENTATIONAL IMAGE Anand, who had previously worked with Kingfisher Airlines had been joined Kuwait Airways in 2008 and had been living there with his wife and daughter. There are an estimated 700,000 Indians living and working in Kuwait, mostly from the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu making them the largest expatriate community in the country. It has been four days since Cyclone Fani, one of the strongest unseasonal cyclonic winds in the Bay of Bengal ravaged parts of Odisha and West Bengal. In Odisha, which was the worst-hit, 37 people lost their lives in the cyclone-related mishaps. Odisha has been praised from the world over for its cyclone preparedness and timely evacuation that saved the lives of lakhs of people in the coastal areas. Read more Security Scare At Bengaluru Metro Station After Passenger With 'Suspicious Object' Refuses Frisking, Runs Away Police in Bengaluru has launched a manhunt for a suspicious individual whose actions triggered a security scare at the Majestic Metro Station in Bengaluru on Monday night. It all began with the unidentified man refusing to undergo a security check after the metal detector started beeping during his body scan. Read more PM Narendra Modi Leaves Behind Donald Trump On Social Media, Only Barack Obama Is Ahead Of Him Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a popular figure and his social media presence suggests the same. In a recent study, it was revealed that PM Narendra Modi is the second most followed politician in the world on social media after former US President Barack Obama. PM Narendra Modi has a total audience of 110.9 million on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Obama's total following stood at 182.7 million, the report released by digital marketing platform SEMrush said on Tuesday. Read more Police Personnel Wear 'Saffron Scarves' In Roadshow, Officers Claim They Were Forced To Do So It is election time in our country and everyone is waiting with bated breath for the results on May 23. All political parties are trying to woo the voters so that they come to power for the next five years. We see several supporters wearing their party's merchandise among other things. Recently, police personnel on duty at the roadshow of Congress leader Digvijaya Singh and Namdas Tyagi, also known as 'Computer Baba', were seen sporting a saffron scarf along with their uniform. Read more Law Student Moves Court After Family Threatens To Abduct And Kill Her 'Scheduled Tribe' Partner Love knows no caste and religion but for this couple, the family of the girl has been threatening her for having an inter-caste relationship. Given the situation, Priyanka Shete, a second-year law student, filed a petition against her family. Shete's lawyer, Nitin Satpute told reporters, "Priyanka Shete was in love with a boy Viraj who hails from the Scheduled Caste community. Her family members disapproved of her relation and threatened to kill her if she did not end her relationship. Her uncle threatened her with a pistol due to which she attempted suicide, even then the intimidation from inside the family did not stop." Read more UP Cop 'Missing' For 5 Months Found Serving Life In Tihar For Role In Hashimpura Massacre It took Uttar Pradesh Police six months to realize that one of its constables who had gone missing following a month-long leave in November last year was, in fact, a convict in the infamous 1987 Hashimpura massacre serving a life sentence. Kanwar Pal Singh, a 55-year-old constable posted at Bijnors Badhapur police station last, was finally terminated on Friday following a departmental inquiry. On November 15, when Singh proceeded on a month-long leave, his colleagues in Bijnor had asked him to come back with sweets from his hometown in Shamli. Read more Police in Bengaluru has launched a manhunt for a suspicious individual whose actions triggered a security scare at the Majestic Metro Station in Bengaluru on Monday night. It all began with the unidentified man refusing to undergo a security check after the metal detector started beeping during his body scan. BCCL CCTV visuals from the metro station showed the man wearing white kurta-pajama entering the station. As he goes through the routine security scan the guard is seen inquiring about what is in his pocket that triggered the beep. The man lifts his kurta but shows nothing and swiftly walked away. Deccan Herald quoting an unnamed source reported that the man had tried entering the metro station again, but went back after he was asked to open his bag. It also reported that a similar looking man had approached a housekeeping staff at the Metro Station asking if she would carry out something if paid for? Following the incident, security has been stepped up across the metro system as the manhunt for the suspicious individual is still on. BCCL The security scare comes even as parts of South India are on a high alert following the Easter bombings in Sri Lanka last month. There is no specific threat about possible terror attacks in the region. Earlier days after the bombings in Sri Lanka a retired Armyman was arrested in Bengaluru after he made a hoax call to police claiming that there were 19 terrorists in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu planning multiple terror attacks targeting trains in eight states. For most of us, living without electricity is something that we cannot even imagine. But a 79-year-old woman in Pune has demonstrated through her life that even in the 21st century, one can live without electricity. But Hema Sane has never used electricity at her small house in Punes Budhwar Peth locality. Now, if you thought she is some poor woman who could not afford a power connection, you are wrong. Dr. Hema Shane is a Ph.D. holder in Botany from Savitribai Phule Pune University and she was even a professor at Garware College Pune for several years. She lives in a small house, which is surrounded by different types of trees and birds. She said she never felt the need for electricity in my whole life. People often ask me how you live without electricity and I ask them how do you live with electricity?" she told ANI. "These birds are my friends and whenever I do my housework they come. People often ask me why don't you sell this house, you will get so much money! I always say who will look after these trees and birds? I don't want to go out. I want to stay with them," she said. Dr. Shane who is the author of a number of books on Botany and environment said "Food, shelter, and clothing are the basic needs. Once upon a time, there was no electricity, it came much later, I can manage without it." Dr. Sane who keeps herself busy even now writing new books said, "I don't give any message or lesson to anyone, rather I echo the famous quote of Lord Buddha who says that you have to find your own path in life." He is pleasant and quietly efficient, juggling all manner of things on a computer screen. Naturally, hes a fan. He says he is blessed to have worked with Mancow for 27 years. He says, without going into details, Mancow has definitely grown and learned a lot from all these years of being on the radio. But at the end of the day he is still the same old Mancow I met in 1992. He is always working on his show. Period. He uses everything he sees and hears as content and makes his own life an open book for the world to read. Last December, Google CEO Sundar Pichai admitted that the company could do better when it comes to helping users understand how to protect their privacy. Now, at Google I/O yesterday, he added to that, insisting privacy is every consumer's right, and not just for those that can afford it. In an opinion piece for the New York Times, published to coincide with the annual developer conference, Pichai stressed once again that people should be able to expect their privacy is being protected without having to pay for the privilege. It's a statement of intent, while also being a dig at Apple. "Privacy cannot be a luxury good offered only to people who can afford to buy premium products and services," he wrote. "Privacy must be equally available to everyone in the world." His statements come at a time when pretty much the entire tech industry and the whole world really is looking at the issue. In the wake of the Facebook Cambridge Analytica controversy, as well as multiple privacy violations by other services, we've started to really just how much our data matters. Even Apple's Tim Cook thinks we have a real problem on our hands. Google has also received its share of backlash over user privacy, what with the huge amounts of user data it gathers. Specifically, it also uses that data to power all of its ad platform, a major source of company revenue. In order to assuage these worries, Pichai used the op-ed to explain how it uses anonymized data to make its products more helpful. Basically, that data used to target ads at you isn't tied to your identity per se, but rather a nameless profile. He insists that ads aren't catered to you based on your personal data in apps like Gmail and Docs, but only based on things like past search results. To that end, Google also talked about a bunch of new privacy features at I/O, ones it's either releasing or working on. One of these is Chrome's 'Incognito' feature coming to other Google apps as well, so you can use them as normal without having your activity saved. You can already do this with the YouTube smartphone app (which is a great way to check out a video someone recommends without having to later deal with recommendations based on it). There's also a new Auto-delete feature you can set, that specifies for how long Google saves your activity data on both web and apps. More importantly, all the new privacy features now have prominent placement in your Google Account page, which you can visit to change your settings here. Beyond this though, Pichai insists that the only way to further privacy protection is to regulate it. He wrote that Google officially supports the US adopting privacy legislation (something it's been pondering) similar to the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). "Legislation will help us work toward ensuring that privacy protections are available to more people around the world." Vinayak Sreedhar, who idolised Stephen Hawking, scored a neat 100, 96 and 97 in three subjects when he appeared for the CBSE class 10 examination. In March, Sreedhar, who suffered from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) - a genetic disorder characterised by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness - passed away. Legendary British theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking also suffered from the motor neuron disease. Vinayak Sreedhar passed away even before he could write the remaining two exams. Facebook He scored 100 in English, 96 in Science and 97 in Sanskrit and could not appear for Computer Science and Social Studies. The Amity International School, Noida, student appeared for the exams under the general category and not the Children With Special Need (CWSN) category. Facebook "His muscular movement was very limited. He could write slowly but since there is a time duration for exams, he used a scribe to write English and Science exam. For Sanskrit, he insisted to write himself. His body movement was restricted and he was wheelchair-bound, but his mind was very sharp and aspirations very high," Mamta Sreedhar, his mother, told PTI, While Vinayaks father is Vice President in GMR, his mother is a home maker. I made this choice. My entire day revolved around him. From brushing his teeth to feeding him, I did it all myself but it was his willpower which always gave us the strength, his mother said. Sreedhar who aimed to become an astronaut always told his mother, "If Stephen Hawking could go to Oxford and make a name in Cosmology I can go to space too." He also had plans to visit Rameswaram temple near Kanyakumari, after his exams were over. "We are today in Rameshwaram and are going for darshan in the evening. It was his unfulfilled wish so we decided to not postpone the plans and do it for him," Mamta Sreedhar, told PTI. Rest in peace, Vinayak Sreedhar, you'll forever be an inspiration to students across the country. Agency Inputs: PTI Trains bring back a lot of memories. Every year summer religiously tries to pump up the heat, quite literally, and the 90s kid inside me just gets lost in the sweet taste of nostalgia when dad used to plan family trips. Reservations were made in advance because Indian railways and middle class families work like that. You miss the ticket, you miss the vacation. My excitement levels were off the charts much to the chagrin of my mom. The antakshari sessions and the bonding between strangers, families in same compartment getting along were, to be honest, the real OG co-travellers. So, when I was recently travelling in the train with my family in a much reclusive time where phone screens have swallowed the socialness of passengers, an abysmal and gross incident shattered each and every train memory that was safely tucked away in a corner of my heart. I was on the middle berth and my sister was on the upper berth of a third AC compartment. We were settling down when my sister asked to switch seats with me. Turned out, it was not just a random sisterly order. She had a direct view of a middle-aged man openly watching porn on his smartphone. His was on the diagonally located upper berth. Post switching the seats, it was my view. The porn clips were enough to make me extremely uncomfortable, let alone my sister whose disgust Im afraid to even imagine. I started comprehending how that guy was fearlessly watching such explicit content in a public space despite the lights being on. All that information is enough to make anyone think, Well, that escalated quickly. But, in the next couple of minutes things really escalated to a different level as this guy started touching himself right there in a (freakin) train compartment. And that was it for me. You see, there were three families with women and kids that were travelling in the same space exposed to a man who mistook a train compartment to be his personal washroom. I approached the TTE (Travelling Ticket Examiner) to help me out and he exactly did what I expected him to do - he ducked. Instead, he asked me to snatch that mans phone and question him. I asked some fellow passengers to at least stand up, instead of just being mute spectators watching a man touch himself in a compartment full of people. Thankfully, the TTE finally arrived and interrupted him, saving us from reaching our breakdown voltage. He lectured him on how his behaviour was disappointing and he did not expect such a thing from a well-educated man like himself. He said, and I quote, If there would have been a minor or a mentally unstable man, then it was understandable. But from him its not expected. And thats where I thought we need to have a dialogue on nuance. Its not okay to touch yourself in public while watching pornography for anyone. Also, attributing an act like this to mental instability shows our lack of understanding of mental disorders, and ignorance towards those suffering from them. The man said sorry a couple of times and the TTE moved on with his list of passengers, like it was no big deal. Meanwhile, the TTE suggested I quote a complaint which can further deal with the heinous act this man pulled off in a public space. I took to Twitter where I narrated the entire incident in detail and tweeted it to @upgrp (Uttar Pradesh Government Railway Police) and @Indianrailways. The UPGRP were quick to respond and reached out to me. They carefully listened as I narrated the entire thing to them, and followed it up by giving a strong warning to the guy who was now watching a Game Of Thrones episode. Strange how he chose to watch a series famous for its nudity even after the warning. Or maybe he was just standing by his explanation of how some explicit scenes popped-up suddenly while he was enjoying his series. AFP/Representational Image If there was anything more disturbing and concerning than the incident itself, it was the indifference of the people around me. Nobody - male or female passenger - spoke up or stood up against him, everyone chose to ignore the entire scene. For some of them, when they went back home, I might have been the guy who took it too far and over reacted. After all, he wasnt saying anything to me - he was just a regular guy who just randomly had this urge to masturbate right there in a public space while watching porn on his 6-inch smartphone. Whats offensive about that? Calling out something like this is not always easy - especially in a society where victim-shaming is the norm. Its heartbreaking to imagine that someone more impressionable would have had to sit through the entire thing, had I not actually seen what was happening and spoken up. I am not trying to play the lifesaver here - what I did counts normal human behaviour, its not a heroic feat. The only problem is, what should count as normal often becomes a lone voice in a crowd that seems too busy to care. Bharatiya Janata Party supporters burn a photo of Pakistan-based terrorist Masood Azhar, in Ahmedabad on May 2, 2019, in support of the United Nations Sanctions Committee to include Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar in its list of global terrorists. (Sam Panthaky//AFP/Getty Images) Sixty is the new 45, 80 is the new 60, and 100 is well, really dang old. But even centenarians know that once you stop learning, you star... The eight-episode J-Klepp Discovers America sorry, just Klepper works because its host manages to be very funny amid these issues while, for the most part, not making fun of them. Yes, an environmental protester gets called out for the ponytail on the end of his beard, but the issue is taken seriously, even when the boat Klepper is riding in en route to a late-night direct action in a Louisiana swamp capsizes, stranding Klepper and the activists like Ginger and the crew of the Minnow. A new report confirms that a young lady collapsed shortly after she was sentenced to death in Lagos. Star Connect reports that the woman identified as Stella Gilbert, 36, was sentenced to death today for stabbing her neighbor, Stella Godwin, to death during a fight in their area in Ajegunle. Justice Raliat Adebiyi handed down the punishment. Gilbert, according to report, stabbed Godwin, who was a mother-of-three, to death with a knife after a fight broke out between them. Upon the judge sentencing Gilbert to death, she collapsed and had to be carried out of the court room by some prison officials. Nigerians have taken to Twitter to react after reports broke that the Kano state assembly has passed a bill to reduce the powers of Emir Lamido Sanusi. The bill which will establish four emirates in the state passed first reading on Tuesday, second and subsequent passing into law on Wednesday. Nigerians have expressed their disappointment at Governor Umar Ganduje for taking his revenge on the monarch because he didnt support his second term bid. See Some reactions below https://twitter.com/TalbanKano/status/1126165754729123841?s=19 If the zeal and determination Kano Assembly and Ganduje used to pass and sign this bill just to dethrone Emir Sanusi is channeled to education, poverty alleviation, infrastructure etc. The people of Kano will benefit immensely. But that is never their interest. Simon Wada (@simonwada) May 8, 2019 Kano Assembly is officially an Assembly solely for GanDollars They all eat the bribe money together.. Emir Sanusi will regret the day he worked against Pres Jonathan. Funny Politicians Winifred MNIM, MCIB (@iamwinyjoe) May 8, 2019 How easy it was for the Kano assembly to pass bill for creation of 4 more emirs, all because of a bitter truth pill. However, they take forever to investigate Ganduje corruption and child abuse pic.twitter.com/Ai2bCv9QN6 Emmanuel Adewole Maranatha (@hemharnuel) May 8, 2019 Sanusi is outspoken, says the the truth about the North, they don't like it, they prefer the people to remain weak, dependent, uneducated because of politics. Kano assembly SHAME on you. The truth would be passed and the masses in the North would be liberated. pic.twitter.com/HdQjURL0Qe F (@DaN_MaMa11) May 8, 2019 Because of politics, Kano state house of assembly passed a bill creating 4 more Emirates to render Emir Sanusi powerless and useless. So the unity of the North has been a scam after all? #Justasking Chekwube Nwufo (@ncheks2005) May 8, 2019 A temporary ban on the wearing of beads in the Benin kingdom has been put in place by the Oba. This was made known via a circular that was released from his palace, which saw the monarch saying that a temporary ban has been placed on the wearing of beads in the kingdom. This according to the Oba is part of the rituals needed for the celebration of a festival in his kingdom. See the full text in the circular below; Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin has transformed the lives of two prostitutes after he gifted them cash to set up a business and stop prostitution. He gave each of the prostitutes who were identified as Miss Edith Onoifo and Miss Joy Afowotake a whopping sum of N2,150,000 each and asked them to go and sin no more. He equally asked them to turn to God and accept Jesus Christ as their lord and personal saviour. According to the pastor who spoke on Quest television located in Warri area of Delta state, he said one of the former prostitutes Miss Edith Onoifo was lured to Moscow for a lucrative job only to be made to go into prostitution. See photos below: Senator Ademola Adeleke has been charged with certificate forgery by the police. According to reports, the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) governorship candidate in Osun state was charged at an Abuja magistrates court on Tuesday morning. More to come The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressive Congress(APC) of harassing the senate president and director general of Atiku campaign organization, Dr. Olubukola Saraki. According to the statement signed by the spokesman for the major opposition Party(PDP), Kola Ologbondiyan, the federal government has been using the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to hound the Saraki and others in what it described as a clear case of a political witch-hunt. This statement was released through the PDP official Twitter handle today, May 8th. The statement further added that certain elements within the APC are planning to harm the leadership of PDP under a certain guise. The tweet: The @OfficialPDPNig expresses concern that the @OfficialAPCNg-led Federal Government is now using the @officialEFCC to hound the Senate President in a clear case of political witch-hunt. Official PDP Nigeria (@OfficialPDPNig) May 8, 2019 Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) Senator, Ben Murray-Bruce has debunked cardiac arrest rumours peddled against his partys vice presidential candidate in the just conducted presidential election, Peter Obi. According to the lawmaker representing Bayelsa East, the former Anambra state governor didnt suffer a heart attack as rumoured yesterday. He notes, however, the PDP VP candidate only had malaria and has fully recovered. The Silverbird group chairman said Obi has more than enough life to panic those who which him dead. He tweeted: I spoke to @PeterObi. Yes, he had malaria, but he is now fine. Nothing like a heart attack. He is full of enough life to give those who wish him dead a panic attack. Peter, we celebrate you and your contribution to Nigeria. May you remain with us for a very, long time. See tweet Google is doubling down on its support of the Kotlin language for Android mobile development, with the recommendation that all new Android projects be developed in Kotlin, the JVM-based alternative to Java. But while Android development will become Kotlin-first, Java and C++ will continue to be supported. With Kotlin, there is less to type, less to test, and less to maintain, said Chet Haase, who leads the Android UI team at Google, at the Google I/O developer conference in Mountain View, CA. Unlike Java, Kotlin doesnt require developers to write large amounts of boilerplate code. Haase even joked that developers typing skills might even be eroding because of this. Googles latest recommendation follows the companys May 2017 endorsement of Kotlin as a supported language for Android development alongside Java. Since then, Kotlin has become the most popular language for Android development. Today more than 50 percent of professional Android developers use Kotlin. In line with Googles Kotlin support, many APIs for Android Jetpack software components are being introduced first for Kotlin developers, and a Kotlin-first reactive UI programming library, Jetpack Compose, is being developed as part of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP). In addition to investing more in tools, both Google and Kotlin inventor JetBrains are offering training in the language. Google still supports the use of Java and C++ for Android development. Google said the Android toolchain will support Java desugaring for bytecode transformations through Java 10, and desugaring soon will be enabled for popular OpenJDK libraries as well. A new toolchain for C++ also is being offered. I knew, of course, that Stephen Colbert had a background at Northwestern and Second City, a Chicago experience, but I did not remember that he brought his first-born child to my practice. Now, its pretty surprising that he mentioned my name because I believe shortly after his first child was born, he went off to do something with Comedy Central and left Chicago, so I did not see his child for years and years and years. I saw his child, I think, for just a few months, Weissbluth said. Switch the Market flag Open the menu and switch the Market flag for targeted data from your country of choice. for targeted data from your country of choice. A: The latest book is called The Art of Death, and the NEA book is called Brother, Im Dying. One is about my father and my uncle who were the men in my life. And The Art of Death is about my mother, who dies in 2014, so it sort of closes a circle for me. Youre definitely transformed by losing your parents. So writing that book gives me a chance to reflect on all of that, but also to look back on the journey that my parents have taken as immigrants examining my parents lives all the way to their deaths and how they really tried. They came to this country to try to give more opportunities to my brothers and myself, and they are the ones who taught me how to find joy in difficult circumstances. And even in this idea of continuity that they try to bring to their lives, but also the parts of them that they left in me, in their passing. Now group chief executive Philippe Donnet has pointed to small- and medium-sized firms contending with regulatory woes and business diversification challenges as potential prospects in Generalis bid to reinforce its regional presence. We have capital and cash for acquisitions, Reuters quoted Donnet as saying on May 07, the day Generali held its annual general meeting, we will look at opportunities in a very selective way to increase earnings per share and create value for shareholders. The CEO said earnings from the asset management business must grow as well. Meanwhile, in a release following its ordinary and extraordinary shareholders meeting (GM), Generali cited the approval of its financial statements for 2018, which closed with a net profit of 1.5 billion. In addition, a dividend of 0.90 per share will be distributed to shareholders. Generali also stated: The GM approved the share plan for Generali Group employees, with the aim of promoting the achievement of strategic objectives, a culture of ownership and empowerment, and employees participation to group sustainable value creation. The plan provides for the opportunity to purchase Assicurazioni Generali shares at favourable conditions, offering, in case of share price appreciation, free shares in proportion to the share purchased and to the dividends distributed. According to the insurer, its board of directors will be in charge of identifying the specific categories of employees who may be beneficiaries as well as the countries where it is possible to roll out the scheme. Slated to be launched in October 2019, the three-year plan will not be offered to the group management committee and the global leadership group members. Munich Res reinsurance business contributed 548 million (down from 750 million) to the consolidated Q1 result. Compared to the same quarter last year, gross premiums written rose by 2.4% to 8.38 billion, up from 8.18 billion. The property-casualty reinsurance business contributed 420 million to that result. The unit achieved a premium volume increase, but experienced a decline in its combined ratio, reporting 97.9%, compared to 88.6% last year. The firms direct ERGO field of business brought in 85 million in Q1, a slight increase from 77 million the prior year. Munich Re released a statement saying: The main reasons for this segments good result were the realisation of investments for financing the additional interest reserve and a good technical result in health insurance. At the April 01 renewals, Munich Re saw prices rise by 1.4%, enabling the reinsurer to grow organically for the sixth renewal-round running. The reinsurers premium volume rose by 10.3% to approximately 1.8 billion, and the firm made the most of growth opportunities in emerging markets like India and Japan, which together account for a third of Munich Res renewed business in April. Despite the Q1 drop in net profit, Munich Re chief financial officer, Christoph Jurecka remains positive and said the company had a good first quarter. He said: Munich Re continues to grow organically in its core business of property-casualty reinsurance. The April renewals were the sixth consecutive round of renewals in which were able to expand our business robustly in some areas. Prices for reinsurance coverage have continued to rise following the high losses in previous years. In primary insurance, the implementation of the ERGO Strategy Program is making good progress. Originally, Mercury Insurance was fined in 2015 by the California Department of Insurance, but the decision was overturned in 2016 by an Orange County judge who ruled that the fees had been legally assessed for insurance brokers services (such as comparison-shopping) to customers. However, the Fourth District Court of Appeal in Santa Ana said that the alleged brokers were actually insurance agents working for Mercury. The agents also provided no customer services and had no authority to charge fees, the district court found. The agents, posing as brokers, could charge unapproved and unfairly discriminatory fees for alleged separate services that would increase consumers cost of insurance, said Justice David Thompson in the 3-0 ruling, who added that the additional fee violates Proposition 103 a 1988 initiative that requires state approval of rates for auto as well as P&C insurance. The San Francisco Chronicle reported that the $27.5 million fine is one of the largest the California Insurance Department has ever levied against an auto or home insurer. In a statement, Mercury said that it was disappointed and surprised that the appellate court reversed the trial courts decision, and that it would evaluate its options which include appealing the decision. The study found that 20% more travelers purchased travel insurance this year for trips during the months of June, July and August than for the same months last year. While trip cancelation and emergency medical were still the most popular benefits, people traveling this summer were also concerned about the financial default of a carrier, canceling for work-related issues, and inclement weather, Squaremouth found. Travelers who sought out financial default coverage increased by 21% this year. Benefits that allowed travelers to cancel for work reasons or because of a layoff increased 25% and 42%, respectively. Travelers buying policies with hurricane and weather coverage increased by 19% - especially travelers heading to Mexico and the Bahamas, Squaremouth found. Following the deals closure, the IM office in Northeastern Pennsylvania will continue to operate under the direction of Robin Tuscano current transportation manager at Tuscano Agency who has been newly appointed as branch manager. In addition, IM executives William Tierney, Jr., Peter Tierney, Joe Tierney, and Ryan Tierney will also join Tuscano Agency and operate from their current location. The Tierney family is pleased to become a part of the Tuscano organization, and we look forward to expanding our reach and ability to serve independent agents in Pennsylvania and the surrounding region, commented IM president and CEO Bill Tierney. Tuscano Agency president and CEO Robert B. Tuscano welcomed the Tierneys to the company in a statement, additionally noting that the acquisition of IM offers Tuscano a local presence in Northeastern PA potentially opening the doors for business in upstate New York and Northern New Jersey. Headquartered in Greensburg, PA, W.N. Tuscano Agency is a regional insurance brokerage that writes business in 21 states. Ive held off commenting very much on THREE, the new three-page commercial policy by Berkshire Hathaway. Its time for a few of my thoughts. It has only been filed in a limited number of states. So far, THREE has been filed in four states. This makes total sense because state filings can be hard, time consuming, and expensive. It also makes sense where theyve filed so far. THREE has only been filed in Connecticut, Illinois, Nebraska, and Texas. Again, this makes some sense because these states tend to be a little easier than other states from a regulatory stand point. It is worth noting that in at least one state, they were able to file their rates, rules, and forms on a file and use basis. This is a simplified form of regulation that is very friendly for the insurance company. Simply, the insured is allowed to use the rates, rules, and forms as soon as they file them with the state. The state then has a limited amount of time to respond to the filing. They could reject the filing, nullifying it. They could request clarification, documenting it. They could reject parts of it, requiring the company to amend it. A limited number of states also allows the company to ramp up their back-office underwriting, processing, and issuing of these policies. It takes time to build the internal support system for an insurance program. Again, a wise move. Filing for the policies in a limited number of states and not telling us which states they are is a great marketing move. If an insured is interested in the policy, they have to search their zip code, find out that they arent able to get the policy, and then provide an email for marketing contacts within the company. Its not going to be three pages in most states (but it will still be short, kind of). So far, 3 of 4 states have required the company to file a state specific supplement. These supplements provide some coverage clarifications, broadened coverage, and consumer notices so far. In fact, in two of the states, the supplement adds uninsured/underinsured motorists coverage to the policies and the supplements call that expanded coverage. Pro tip : Watch what the state regulators require to find out where the holes in coverage might be. Speaking of holes in coverage, one supplement adds this paragraph. Use of Reasonable Force in Defense: The policys exclusion for damage or occurrences that were expected or intended does not apply to the use of reasonable force used in defense of people or property. This expands coverage available under the policy. Thats right. In their attempt to shorten and simplify their policy, they shortened the expected or intended injury exclusion so that any expected or intended injury is not covered. This is narrower coverage than a standard ISO Commercial General Liability policy and it was only corrected in one state so far. Can we really call it a three-page policy when they include workers compensation as a coverage, but punt the policy language? Heres what it says about workers compensation in the policy. Workers compensation insurance: Every state has workers compensation laws that provide benefits for injured employees. We cover your business for and will promptly pay amounts required by state workers compensation law. We will pay all installments of the compensation that may be awarded or agreed upon in connection with those injuries. In short language, We didnt want to add real policy language about workers compensation. Go read your states laws. So, is it really simplifying things? Now the insured doesnt need an insurance agent to help them with their workers compensation. They need a workers compensation attorney. Is that simpler? It doesnt tell you who is covered. Let me quote a few more lines. This policy only covers your business for loss caused by occurrences during the policy period. When listed Additional Insureds or employees of your business act on its behalf, they are also covered. The business itself is insured. We get that, but what about employees? Does that sentence from the liability paragraph mean that listed Additional Insureds or employees are covered? Or does it mean listed Additional Insureds or listed employees are covered? Im going to guess that they mean for employees to be covered, but Im not sure. If they meant to cover employees, thats great. If they didnt any court that has to adjudicate a dispute will likely find that ambiguous and rule against the company. It is a positive step. Im not opposed to making insurance policies simpler to read. It would be great if customers understood what they were buying. Im not a huge fan of how weve changed policies over the last 30-40 years. Most insurance policies have been written by committees of people, over a long period of time, and without a single, unifying plan behind them. What if a person decided that they wanted a house for one person? She builds the house that she needs and shes happy. That is, until she discovers that she needs more space. She buys a shed to store her musical equipment. Then she decides that she doesnt want to walk outside to get her guitar and the humidity is bad for the drums, so she builds a hallway to the shed. Then she adopts three cats, two dogs, and invites her brother and his family to move in. She builds a second floor with an outside staircase to get to it. Eventually, she decides she doesnt want to go outside to get upstairs, especially since her brother and family moved out. Thats kind of how insurance policies feel sometimes. There is language that everyone accepts, but no one really knows why its there. There are words that arent used anywhere in the cultural lexicon, but they show up in the insurance policy. We all have cell phones, but how many of us have pewterware? Right. We wont know how viable this product is until they sell a few thousand policies and settle some difficult claims. Until then. Ill plan to be skeptically optimistic that a simpler solution to insurance policy language can exist. Topics Workers' Compensation Hub International Limited (Hub), a global insurance brokerage, has acquired the assets of RIMS Insurance Brokerage Corporation. Located in Providence, R.I., RIMS Insurance Brokerage Corporation has offered medical professional liability insurance as well as life, health, disability, workers compensation, business owners insurance and other coverages since 1988. Following the transaction, Robert Anderson, president of RIMS Insurance Brokerage Corporation, will join Hub New England and will report to Daniel Nissi, president of Hub New Englands Healthcare Specialty Practice. Headquartered in Chicago, Ill., Hub International Limited is a full-service global insurance broker providing property and casualty, life and health, employee benefits, investment and risk management products and services. It is committed to growing organically and through acquisitions to expand its geographic footprint and strengthen industry and product expertise. Source: Hub International Limited Topics Mergers Agencies German reinsurer Munich Re reported a 23.5 percent decrease in its first quarter net profit to 633 million ($708.6 million) from 827 million ($925.7 million) in Q1 2018. The worlds largest reinsurer blamed the profit drop on higher basic losses and greater expenditure for claims from previous years. These losses prevented a repeat of the Q1 2018 result, which was practically free of major losses, said Munich Re in a statement. The company reported a Q1 combined ratio 97.9 percent for its property and casualty reinsurance business, which worsened from the 88.6 percent reported in Q1 2018. Nevertheless, Munich Re said it is on track to achieve its full-year target level of around 98 percent. (A combined ratio above 100 percent means an insurer is paying more in claims and expenses than its collecting in premiums). Total expenditure for major losses in excess of 10 million ($11.2 million) each amounted to 479 million ($536.2 million), compared with 62 million reported during Q1 2018. Munich Re said these figures include run-off profits and losses for major claims from previous years as well as additional expenditure of 267 million ($298.9 million) for losses from Typhoon Jebi, which hit Japan and Taiwan in September 2018. Major-loss expenditure is equivalent to 9.7 percent of net earned premium for Q1, compared to 1.4 percent in 2018. Major-loss expenditure from natural catastrophes amounted to 195 million ($218.3 million) in Q1, while man-made major losses amounted to 283 million ($316.8 million). Munich Res property-casualty reinsurance business contributed 420 million ($470.1 million) to the groups overall Q1 profit, down 29 percent from the 591 million ($661.5 million) reported in Q1 2018. P/C gross premiums written rose 3.8 percent to 5.5 billion ($6.2 billion) from the 5.3 billion ($5.9 billion) reported in the same period last year. Munich Re continues to grow organically in its core business of property-casualty reinsurance. The April renewals were the sixth consecutive round of renewals in which we are able to expand our business robustly in some areas, commented Chief Financial Officer Christoph Jurecka. Prices for reinsurance coverage have continued to rise following the high losses in previous years. At the April 1 renewals, Munich Re said premiums increased in markets and risks affected by natural catastrophes. Further, price stabilization with a slightly upward trend was also observed in the third-party liability markets. With regard to all April renewals, prices rose by 1.4 percent, while premium volume rose by 10.3 percent to some 1.8 billion ($2 billion), compared to 1.7 billion ($1.9 billion) during the April renewals in 2018. Munich Re said it was possible during the April renewals to selectively tap growth opportunities in certain markets, especially in India and Japan, which account for one-third of the business renewed in April. Source: Munich Re Topics Claims Profit Loss Reinsurance Property Casualty Hannover Re announced that Jean-Jacques Henchoz has stepped into the role of chief executive officer, succeeding Ulrich Wallin who is retiring. Prior to joining Hannover Re, Henchoz had been in charge of the region Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at Swiss Re, where, starting in 2011, he was responsible for both the life and non-life business of Swiss Re in this region. In January 2012, he was appointed as a member of the executive committee of the Swiss Re Group in this capacity. He had previously served with Swiss Re in a number of different positions since 1998, including in the role of CEO of the subsidiary Swiss Re Canada in the period between 2005 and 2010. Henchoz holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Business Administration from the International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Lausanne. He is a Swiss citizen. Henchozs appointment was first announced in August 2018. In his address to shareholders, the departing Chief Executive Officer Ulrich Wallin looked back on 2018s financial year when group net income increased by 10.5 percent to 1.1 billion. With this result Hannover Re has delivered a double-digit return on equity for the tenth consecutive year and thereby clearly demonstrated its sustained profitability, said Herbert Haas, Chairman of Hannover Res Supervisory Board, noted. Haas thanked Wallin not only for the good 2018 result but also for his outstanding entrepreneurial achievement over the past 19 years. Source: Hannover Re Related: Topics Swiss Re Then, as now, the spring mating dance was a treat that most people werent lucky enough to see. The prairie chicken, actually a kind of grouse, makes full use of its showy appearance, which for males comes complete with inflatable air sacs on the neck and a patterned tail that fans out for dancing. When hens visit the lek, or booming ground, where males have carefully staked out bedroom-sized territories determined by a series of sparring matches, You see them stomping their feet, and you can even hear it, says Bob. Its wonderful. Theyll inflate their air sacs, bright orange, the color of the rising sun, and then theyll stand up some feathers on the back of their heads. Theyll boom, and theyll cackle, and youll also hear a whoop. Thats a sound they make only for the hens. Iowas high court has ruled in favor of a workers compensation insurer in a case in which a group of employees and former employees of a manufacturing plant alleged that the insurer failed to protect workers from injury when it opted not to inspect, or negligently inspected, the plant for safety conditions. The Iowa Supreme Court made its ruling in a case brought by Dillon Clark, Agnes Dusabe, Musa Ezeirig, Zarpka Green, Dusty Nyonee, and Abraham Tarpeh, employees and former employees of TPI Iowa LLC, a wind blade manufacturing facility located in Newton, Iowa. The company, which employs hundreds of employees at its Newton plant, was cited last year by Iowas Occupational Safety and Health Administration for workplace safety violations that included fire hazards, airborne contaminants, faulty record keeping, fall hazards and a lack of employee training. IOSHA took action against TPI after workers complained the company failed to protect them from exposure to dangerous chemicals that caused severe skin injuries. The Associated Press reported that some workers were fired after they reported injuries. The Iowa Supreme Court, in an opinion released May 3, said the plaintiffs petition presented a variety of claims against various defendants, including TPI, affiliates, officers and directors, and its workers compensation insurer, Insurance Company of the State of Pennsylvania (ICSOP). In its May 3 opinion, however, the court only considered the claims against ICSOP, which were based on the failure to inspect the premises, or in the alternative, negligent inspection. The plaintiffs alleged that the insurance carrier failed to conduct or negligently conducted an insurance inspection at the companys manufacturing facility and that the omission or action caused serious health problems for plaintiffs. They sought compensatory damages as well as punitive damages. In answer to the claims brought by the plaintiffs, ICSOP moved to dismiss the petition based on the section of the Iowa Code that states in pertinent part: No inspection of any place of employment made by insurance company inspectors . . . shall be the basis for the imposition of civil liability upon the inspector or upon the insurance company The plaintiffs argued, however, that the provision is unconstitutional as violative of equal protection, inalienable rights, and due process provided by the Iowa Constitution. The district court disagreed and found in favor of the insurer and granted the carriers motion to dismiss the case. On appeal, the Supreme Court discounted the plaintiffs claims of unconstitutionality, citing, among other things, the grand bargain established by workers compensation law, under which workers relinquished their common law right to seek a full range of compensatory and punitive damages available at common law and instead became eligible for limited statutorily-based compensation. The court acknowledged that workers comp case law has developed over time but held that the immunity for workers compensation insurance companies inspections is part of the grand bargain. Finding no claim for negligent inspection against a workers compensation carrier, the court said it follows that there is no right to a jury trial on a nonexistent claim. Thus, plaintiffs due process claim also fails. The court then affirmed the action of the district court in dismissing the claim against ICSOP. TPI recently agreed to pay $100,000 penalties to settle with IOSHA, which originally fined the plant $155,000 for the workplace safety violations, according to the Associated Press. Iowa regulators gave TPI until Aug. 31 to fix the residual safety hazards, the AP reported. The settlement requires TPI to restrict employee contact with hazardous chemicals, eliminate fall dangers and alter how the factory stores combustible liquids. The company has adopted new polyethylene suits to protect workers against the chemicals. Other cases brought against TPI and other defendants are pending, according to the AP. Related: Topics Carriers Claims Workers' Compensation Commercial Lines Business Insurance Iowa Manufacturing Insurers will pay up to $42 million to surviving victims of a 2018 Florida bridge collapse and the families of those killed, under a deal announced Friday between the now-bankrupt construction company that built the pedestrian bridge and its insurers. The deal between Magnum Construction Management and the insurance companies, reported by the Miami Herald on Friday, marks a step forward in resolving litigation involving families of the six people killed when the Florida International University pedestrian bridge collapsed on March 15, 2018, and eight injured survivors. The settlement agreement was filed in federal bankruptcy court April 30 and must now be approved by a judge. The Miami Herald previously reported Magnums insurers include Greenwich Insurance Company, XL Insurance America, Inc., Indian Harbor Insurance Company and The Ohio Casualty Insurance Company. Magnum, formerly known as Munilla Construction Management, filed for bankruptcy earlier this year. More than 20 other defendants are being sued by victims and they will have to reach their own deals with their insurers. The National Transportation Safety Board said in a preliminary report in November that bridge designers overestimated the strength of a critical section of the bridge, though the report did not assign blame for the collapse. A final report is expected later this year. Magnum Construction Company did not design the bridge. Orlando Duran, whose daughter Alexa was killed in the collapse, attended a news conference Friday to announce details of the deal and said that he hopes more parties come forward to take responsibility. For example, he said the road under the bridge should have been closed while work continued on completing the modularly constructed bridge. He said there were so many things that could have been done to stop this tragedy, which took the life of my daughter and five other people. She was happy, she was outgoing, Duran said of his daughter. She was, to me, my personal friend. I lost not only my daughter, I also lost my friend. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Carriers Florida Construction Harford Mutual Insurance Co. has opened a new office in Fort Mill, South Carolina to serve its expanding Southern territory, including Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. According to the company, the location on the second floor of The Exchange at 951 Market Street, Suite 201, Fort Mill, South Carolina, was selected due to growth opportunities in the area as well as proximity to other states in which Harford Mutual writes. Director of the South Carolina Department of Insurance Ray Farmer attended the ribbon cutting ceremony, as did representatives from Harford Mutual and The York County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Harford Mutual Insurance Co., founded in 1842 in Harford County, Maryland, provides commercial property and casualty insurance products and services to a regional market. Topics South Carolina A component meant to slow an aircraft on landing was inoperative on the Boeing jetliner that slid off a runway into a river at a Florida military base, injuring 22 people, investigators said on Sunday. The failure of the left-hand thrust reverser on the Boeing 737-800 was one of the factors investigators were looking at, as well as a request by the pilots to change runways, said National Transportation Safety Board Vice Chairman Bruce Landsberg. The plane chartered by the U.S. military landed during a thunderstorm at Naval Air Station Jacksonville on Friday night and was arriving from Naval Station Guantanamo Bay in Cuba with 136 passengers and seven crew members. It slid off the end of the runway into shallow water and sank up to its wings, forcing passengers to walk along the wings to safety. The aircraft had been in maintenance and the maintenance log noted that the left hand thrust reverser was inoperative, Landsberg told a press conference, explaining that the component slowed an aircraft by diverting thrust from an engine. Several dogs and cats traveling in crates in the submerged forward hold of the plane are presumed dead and the U.S. Navy has arranged to have divers remove them from the aircraft, said Landsberg. Shortly before landing, the pilots asked to change to a runway that had equipment set up on it, reducing the length of available landing space to 7,800 feet (2377 meters) from a total runway length of 9,000 feet (2743 meters), Landsberg said. We dont know what they were thinking or why that was their choice, said Landsberg of their decision. The aircraft, chartered from Miami Air International, landed at a speed of 163 knotts (188 mph) with a tail wind of 15 knotts (17 mph) that increased its ground speed to 178 knotts (205 mph) on landing, Landsberg said. Asked to confirm that the speed appeared excessive, Landsberg declined to comment. The cockpit voice recorder is in the submerged tail of the plane and investigators will not be able to recover it until the aircraft is drained of fuel and lifted out of the water. (Reporting By Andrew Hay; Editing by Andrea Ricci) Topics Florida Aviation Marijuana advocates dropped legal claims that Utah lawmakers conspired with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to make sweeping changes to a voter-approved ballot initiative legalizing medical pot. Their lawsuit will instead focus on an allegation that it was unconstitutional to replace a law passed by voters and raise questions about whether the changes are at odds with federal laws that still say marijuana is illegal, said Rocky Anderson, an attorney representing two advocacy groups. If a judge agrees, the law would revert back to the version passed by voters, said Anderson, a former Salt Lake City mayor. The announcement comes amid divisions over marijuana legalization and church overreach in Utah. The state attorney general argued in a recent court filing that the church did not influence an agreement that lawmakers passed to legalize the drug but scale down qualifying medical conditions. Sean Reyes also said church leaders were exercising free speech by lobbying people to oppose the initiative as it appeared on the ballot. By calling upon the Legislature to find an appropriate solution and expressing the `hope for a special session, the church was neither dominating the state nor interfering with its functions, state attorneys wrote in the April 22 court filing. The church was simply expressing its views and desires on a matter of public interest, as any person or group has the right to do. The group Together for Responsible Use and Cannabis Education, or TRUCE, and the Epilepsy Association of Utah sued the state in December to block a compromise that legislative leaders, church officials and proposition sponsors crafted before the November election and passed after voters legalized medical marijuana. The deal became law earlier this year. It bans many marijuana edibles, prevents people from growing marijuana if they live far from a dispensary and makes fewer medical conditions eligible for treatment with pot. Christine Stenquist, executive director and founder of TRUCE, said the changes would make it near impossible for patients to access medical marijuana, pushing many to purchase the drug in the black market. The groups initially accused the church of unconstitutional domination and interference in a process that led the ballot measure to be gutted, but they have since dropped those allegations from the lawsuit. The Utah-based faith has stood behind the work it did to help create the compromise that it considers a safer medical marijuana program. Latter-day Saints have long frowned on marijuana use because of a key church health code called the Word of Wisdom, which prohibits the use of alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs. Church leaders declined to comment through spokesman Doug Anderson. About two-thirds of the states residents belong to the church, along with nearly nine in 10 members of the Legislature and Republican Gov. Gary Herbert. Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits Cannabis Anticounterfeiting Workshop: Combating Counterfeiting: Online and Offline (Exclusive to in-house practitioners and government officials) This workshop presents an opportunity for key stakeholders in the fight against counterfeiting to work together in a closed-door environment, sharing their perspectives, discussing lessons learned and best practices, and exploring ways to enhance collaboration and cooperation. One of the biggest challenges to brand owners today is the sophistication of counterfeiters and their creativity in leveraging technological advancements, as they infiltrate legitimate business channels to grow their nefarious networks and consequently their bottom lines. The return on investment for a counterfeiter is high and it is a constant struggle for brand owners and governments to effectively destroy well-funded counterfeiting rings. This workshop will explore creative solutions to a growing problem, including leveraging criminal enforcement routes, non-IPbased legal actions, and more. Fee: US $100 The registration fee includes coffee breaks and lunch. Tickets for admission to this event will not be sold onsite. Registration is nonrefundable, but substitutions are allowed and space is limited. Already registered for the Annual Meeting? To add events, sessions, and guests to your registration, log into the Registrant Portal and click Add Sessions/Events on the top menu, and then click Add Guest/Session on the right menu. earthbig Just a few days remain of ITR's survey, in which taxpayers can voice their opinions anonymously on the taxation of the digital economy. The survey asks corporate taxpayers to outline their opinions on, and their strategic responses to, the multilateral process at the OECD, with its two pillars and its anticipated completion date of 2020. It also provides an opportunity for a frank discussion of countries unilateral measures, such as the digital services taxes recently announced by France, Austria, and others. The survey will end on Tuesday, June 4 2019. Your responses are strictly anonymous. The results will be featured across a series of articles online and compiled in International Tax Reviews JulyAugust magazine issue. For further details, or to share your opinions with our editorial team, please feel free email alexander.hartley@euromoneyplc.com. Take the survey here. 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. Share this article So thats Wednesday nearly wrapped up. Heres some of the stories we published on irishexaminer.com today which we hope will help you make sense of it all this evening. TO INFORM Broadband billions: The civil servant overseeing the broadband plan has strongly defended the project, insisting that any decision to halt it would likely result in the marginalisation of rural communities. Anastasia Kriegel: Schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel had a noose made from blue tape wrapped around her neck and appeared to be trying to pull it away, the garda who discovered her body has told the Central Criminal Court trial of the two boys accused of her murder. Record damages: A nine-year-old boy left brain damaged and permanently disabled after a failure to diagnose an infection when he was a baby has settled his High Court action against Temple Street Children's Hospital, Dublin with a final record damages payment of 25m. Rugby 7s Tournament: Drugs worth an estimated 11,000 were seized and 29 people were arrested as part of a large garda operation mounted during the Kinsale 7s rugby tournament in Co Cork over the May Bank Holiday weekend. Common Travel Area: Ireland and the UK have signed an agreement to protect the rights of both Irish and British citizens "in all circumstances" after Brexit, which recommits to the existing Common Travel Area arrangements and pledges that they will continue whether the UK leaves the EU without a deal Mueller report: The White House is invoking executive privilege, reserving the right to block the full release of special counsel Robert Muellers report on the Russia probe, escalating President Donald Trumps battle with Congress. Adrienne Cullen: A Dutch hospital responsible for the death through medical negligence of an Irish patient has apologised to the widower in the case after their CEO accused him of scapegoating her. Barcelona FC:: Barcelona were subjected to "the biggest ridicule in history", according to the Spanish media, as Liverpool left the Catalans "blushing" with a remarkable 4-0 Champions League comeback win at Anfield. TO ENGAGE Cork on the Rise: There are numerous similarities between Aarhus and Cork. Apart from being their respective countries second largest cities Cork with 130,000 inhabitants whilst Aarhus has 330,000 they share a Viking heritage; are important river/coastal harbours with international status; have large, top-quality universities with important connections to the business community; and outstanding landscapes. European elections: Next week, Social Justice Ireland and Trocaire will co-host a hustings event ahead of the European Elections on May 24th. Dr. Sean Healy sets out the five key policy asks in that joint policy platform. TO ENTERTAIN Royal Baby: Meghan and Harry have named their baby Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, but have chosen not to give him a title. He will be known simply as Archie, with Master as a prefix when required. Dr Eva Osmond: Dr Eva Orsmond shares her knowledge on how to slow down your biological clock. Since time began we have coveted youth. But while we can do nothing about advancing years, most medical experts believe that we can help prolong our lives by following a healthy lifestyle. Most Read A Judge has been told that motorists "doing doughnuts" is a particular problem in west Cork after an incident detected by gardai in which three cars were pulling stunts on the main street of a village. Johnson & Johnson has agreed to pay about $1bn (893m) to resolve most lawsuits claiming it sold defective metal-on-metal hips that had to be removed, according to people with knowledge of the matter. With the agreement, J&J has now resolved more than 95% of the 6,000 cases in which surgeons extracted the Pinnacle implants because of defects that left patients unable to walk and in pain. The roughly $1bn total includes an earlier settlement for more than $400m. Still pending are about 4,500 suits by patients with artificial hips that arent made totally of metal or havent been surgically removed, said the sources. It is unclear how many, if any, of those cases will be settled. Rather than set up a global settlement programme, attorneys for J&J and its DePuy unit, maker of the Pinnacle hip replacements, cut separate deals with plaintiffs lawyers to resolve their clients cases. Its unclear when all the hip suits will be disposed of, they said. A J&J spokeswoman said that settlement negotiations for the Pinnacle cases are continuing and that the worlds largest maker of healthcare products had set aside funds for the litigation. While the settlements wrap up more than four years of high-profile litigation, J&J is still grappling with other legal problems, including a wave of cases targeting its baby powder for allegedly causing cancer and other suits alleging it took a kingpin role in the opioid-painkiller epidemic. J&J faces a May trial in Oklahoma over the states allegations it helped fuel a surge of overdoses there. The hip settlements came after Texas juries over the last three years ordered J&J to pay over $1.5bn to Pinnacle hip patients who accused the company of misleading them about the devices health risks and durability. Some of the awards were cut and others were thrown out on appeal. Mark Lanier, one of the plaintiffs lawyers leading the litigation, originally announced the latest settlement deal in February, as J&J prepared to face claims in federal court in Dallas by five Pinnacle hip patients who blamed the devices for their injuries, including metal poisoning. At the time, Lanier declined to reveal the settlements financial details. The company said 99.2% of the metal-on-metal hips held up for three years. European health regulators put the rate at around 7%. Although J&J has agreed to resolve the cases involving surgical removal, it isnt paying to settle cases brought by patients worried they might need hip surgery in the future, said the sources. Bloomberg Businesses and home owners in Irelands most rural areas must wait until 2026 to access high-speed broadband and may have to pay more out of their own pocket. After repeated delays since 2012, the Government yesterday announced its preferred bidder for the 3bn National Broadband Plan to end digital apartheid. More than 1.1m people will get access to a network officials have said will make Ireland the envy of Europe. However, after robust challenges to the deal from senior civil servants, there are questions over why the State will not end up owning the network over the lifetime of the 25-year deal. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and his ministers insisted that the deal, with a group led by Irish-American businessman David McCourt and which will take six months to get across the line, is the best option available. Under the contract, 120,000 of the targeted mainly rural homes will be connected in the first two years. Up to 100,000 premises will be connected each year thereafter. It will take seven years before the most isolated parts of rural Ireland get access to the high-speed connections. Mr Varadkar yesterday conceded that there is a caveat whereby if it costs over 5,000 to connect a home, the premises could be asked to pay a contribution over and above the standard 100 connection fee. If it costs more than 5,000 to connect to your particular premises, youll be asked for a contribution [for any cost] over the 5,000, he said. We suspect thats going to be a very small number. Ministers defended the deal. Agriculture Minister Michael Creed told the Irish Examiner it would end digital apartheid in rural Ireland. Finance and Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe also overruled robust criticism of the 3bn deal by his most senior department officials, saying it is time for digital fairness for all citizens. Business Minister Heather Humphreys said it is a game-changer for rural Ireland and would end the digital divide. The Cabinet debated the plan for six hours yesterday. It is understood no minister wanted to delay the project. The McCourt-led consortium to be called National Broadband Ireland said households, when connected, would be able to buy the same services at the same prices as other parts of the country. The Government said premises would be offered special broadband bundles by different providers, which would include TV, phonelines, and home security. It emerged yesterday that the cost of the project rose from 1bn to 3bn between 2015 and 2018. An initial estimate given to Government at 1bn was for 770,000 homes and businesses. A decision by Eir to take control of providing commercial broadband to over 330,000 properties put a significant dent in those plans. After a review of three bids, the Government settled on a contract for 3bn to connect over 540,000 properties. Opposition parties criticised the plan, claiming it has come in six times overbudget, a decade late, and without any guarantee the State would own the service. Fianna Fail communications spokesman Timmy Dooley said: Our big concern is this announcement has all the hallmarks of a PR exercise two weeks out from the local and European elections, and I think people waiting for rural broadband will treat this with an air of scepticism. Labour leader Brendan Howlin said he believes people in rural areas could end up having to pay twice as taxpayers and as individuals to receive the service. Social Democrats TD Catherine Murphy said the Cabinet is cynically using broadband as an electioneering tool. The taxpayer is set to pay twice as much as the private company awarded the National Broadband Plan contract, a report reveals. A cost-benefit analysis of the National Broadband Plan suggests the cost to the State will be 1.922bn whereas the cost to the operator will be 974m. The report produced for the Government last month was among a tranche of documents published after the cabinet signed off on the 3bn rural broadband provision. However, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe and Communications Minister refused to say how much David McCourts consortium will have to invest despite mounting calls from the opposition. Pressed on the 974m stated in the report, Mr Donohoe said: I am aware of what are our estimates are for the different figures that the preferred bidder would be making available. I am not in a position to confirm that figure now, that is for two reasons. Firstly, contracts have not been signed. The second reason why is that we have a variety of private companies who come forward to be part of the delivery of really important services for our State every single day. As minister, if I was to outline what money they are putting in, it would raise big questions as to why other companies would want to approach us to be involved in the delivery of really important activity in Ireland, he said. Mr Bruton also refused to provide information in the Dail by stating: Im not going to prejudice the final signing off of the contract. PWC, which carried out the analysis, found the project would deliver a positive societal return, which extends significantly beyond those benefits which are capable of a credible quantification. While the cost-benefit analysis results were based on a central case scenario, PWC also made a pessimistic forecast which put the final cost of delivering high-speed broadband at 3.256bn. The Government appears to have conceded it will end up paying 3bn alone when Vat and contingencies are calculated. PWC forecast households will gradually be connected to broadband services, but put the figure at 80% take up. However, the report pointed to the fact it did not have information on the number of homes and businesses that already have access to broadband. The cost-benefit analysis did not determine the level of broadband services currently available to enterprises within the intervention area which could under or overestimate the benefits arising from next-generation access broadband rollout, the report stated. They cited the fact less-than-perfect information is available on the quality of the current basic broadband services as a risk. PWC excluded medium and large enterprises as it is assumed that given their size, alternative steps have been taken to gain access to sufficient broadband services. However they assumed small businesses would sign up. A rift has emerged between Fianna Fails two candidates in Ireland South after Malcolm Byrne lodged an official complaint to party bosses about his party rival Billy Kelleher, the Irish Examiner can reveal. Emails from Mr Byrne allege repeated infringements by Mr Kelleher in counties he agreed to leave alone in order to try and win two out of five MEP seats on May 24. The emails, seen by the Irish Examiner, show Mr Byrne has complained to the director of elections Lisa Chambers and party general secretary Sean Dorgan about Mr Kellehers continued ignoring of the agreed divide. Our campaign wishes to formally complain about the behaviour of my running mate, Billy Kelleher, who is continually breaching the agreed divide of the Ireland South constituency, Mr Byrne wrote. We are disappointed at the lack of ambition on Billys part and his inability to stick to a deal. It is essential that this matter is addressed quickly. The party is said to be aware of Mr Byrnes concerns and they are being looked at. The divide is agreed and in place and we are seeing to maximise the vote. In one email from last Saturday, Mr Byrne said: Being told that Billy Kelleher has been canvassing the area and being greeted on the M7 at Moneygall by a Kelleher billboard shows that the divide continues to be ignored. As I pointed out about my WLR debate this week, I was asked as to why Billy was canvassing in Waterford. In a previous email, Mr Byrne accused Mr Kelleher of being prepared to spend significant sums in pursuit of his one seat strategy, with no action taken by the national campaign. We knew there was a risk when in March, we asked that Billy be added to the ticket quickly after I beat him at convention, but we were always given to understand that it would be as part of the two-seat strategy that we had set out, he said. We remain very positive and believe I will be fighting for that last seat but to ensure that it happens, we cannot allow the continued pursuit of the Billy One Seat strategy. Mr Byrne complained that Mr Kelleher had taken billboard ads in Wicklow, Tipperary, and Kilkenny. Mr Kelleher denied any attempt to undermine the pact. Anybody who knows me and observed my work knows I always put the party first. Just look at my record especially since 2011 and that would have to be acknowledged. In response to Mr Byrne, Ms Chambers said: I do not wish to see such adverts in place and will make that known. If and when such adverts are in fact on view we will certainly look at the situation then and assess any action or remedy required, you might inform me of same if and when it occurs. Local garda bosses are calling for action to combat feuding gangs vying for territory in an "ever-increasing drugs war. Speaking against the background of violent criminal feuds in Drogheda, Co Louth, and Corduff and Finglas in west Dublin, the countrys superintendents said the drugs trade had permeated towns and villages nationwide. Noel Cunningham, president of the Association of Garda Superintendents, said local intelligence assisted gardai in tackling crime and that to gather that information you needed enough gardai to have them mingling with communities. He was addressing Minister of State at the Department of Justice, David Stanton, at the AGS annual conference in Kildare. Supt Cunningham told the minister of the constant challenges facing his members in dealing with drugs and organised crime. This is a national issue permeated into towns and villages across the country were opposing groups vying for territory and market share in our ever-increasing drugs war, he said. Supt Noel Cunningham He took to task those, such as official sources (which include health agencies and researchers here and internationally) for the language they use around drugs. The use by groups, including official sources of the term recreational drugs is only helping to normalise what is illegal, dangerous and supporting drug abuse in Ireland," he said. We must be careful with our language and supportive of a multi-agency approach to addressing drug abuse within our young and not so young communities. Supt Cunningham also raised the need to resource garda districts along the Garda Northern Division in addressing a rise in cross-border crime and the spate of ATM robberies. In his address, Minister Stanton said: In relation to crime, much has been said recently regarding organised and armed criminal activity, particularly in the Louth and DMR West Divisions. In saying that these criminals are a tiny minority in these areas, I do not discount the concerns of the members of the public whose lives are impacted by their activities. He said that while resource allocation was the sole responsibility of the Garda Commissioner, he understood that dedicated policing operations have been put in place. Armed Support Units, whose members are highly trained and equipped with a variety of non-lethal and lethal weapons, are supporting their uniformed colleagues by carrying out high visibility armed checkpoints and patrols throughout the region, Minister Stanton said. He said this was being supported by various national units. The type of activity occurring in Drogheda and Blanchardstown will not be allowed to continue, and those engaged in these illegal activities will be brought to justice," he said. The conference will be addressed later by Commissioner Drew Harris. Update: The Irish Examiner will be hosting a town hall meeting between Ireland South European Election candidates on May 16 at 7.30pm in Cork's Clayton Hotel Silver Springs. The event will be moderated by Daniel McConnell, Irish Examiner Policial Editor, and Michael Clifford, Irish Examiner Special Correspondent. A man extradited to Ireland is to face trial on a single charge of child sexual abuse, possibly as early as today. The man was initially before court in January having been arrested in the UK on foot of a European arrest warrant. Finance and Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe has overruled his most senior officials to back the 3bn broadband plan in what he deems is digital fairness for the whole country. Mr Donohoe said there is a requirement to hardwire the country for future needs despite his department officials giving a robust criticism of the value-for-money elements of the plan. The Cabinet debated the project for six hours yesterday, discussing alternative options and concerns about the cost of the plan. Sources said nobody threatened to jump ship and that it was agreed the money would be well spent over the lifetime of the 25-year digital deal. Under the plan, there is a commitment for almost 100% broadband coverage across the country. Up to 80% of homes and premises targeted are over 1km away from towns and villages that will be delivered by commercial fibre. Mr Donohoe said his department had robustly challenged the deal, including concerns raised by its most senior civil servant, public expenditure secretary general Robert Watt. Nonetheless, Mr Donohoe said he is a minister who represents the entire country and a fairer Ireland depends on digital inclusion for all its citizens. He said he believes the plan to deliver high-speed connections to over 540,000 premises could not be completed in a more rapid and affordable manner than with the consortium bid led by Irish-American businessman David McCourt. Several ministers compared the digital plan to the electrification of Ireland. Communications Minister Richard Bruton said it is unlikely the communications regulator would need to intervene during the seven years needed to connect all premises. It was also pledged that rural areas would not pay more than urban households to be connected and that all counties will see a start to the high-speed broadband access within two years. Mr Bruton said the take-up expected by homes under the McCourt deal would be 80% by 2025. The new consortium, called National Broadband Ireland, will set out 110 zones where connections are planned. The Government could not answer how areas would be prioritised and which communities will be connected last or first. NBI will be in charge of this. Mr Bruton defended the project, saying the cost would be higher but for the fact NBI is renting or using over 1.4m existing poles of private operators to attach on the fibre. Furthermore, maintenance of the network would be NBIs responsibility for the 25 years. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the State has the option of terminating the contract if it was not happy and taking ownership of the network. The Government is today expected to publish a series of documents that looked at alternative options for the broadband plan. Up to 11 alternatives were considered. Ministers also maintain the contract, which will take six months to be agreed with NBI, is watertight. It will cost 2.1bn, when Vat and contingency payments are removed. The providers will only be paid when actual infrastructure or connections are completed. There is also a clawback clause that allows the State take back up to 60% of extra profits. A Judge has been told that motorists "doing doughnuts" is a particular problem in west Cork after an incident detected by gardai in which three cars were pulling stunts on the main street of a village. The case involved a man facing an initial charge of dangerous driving arising out of an incident in Drinagh on March 16 last. Sgt Paul Kelly told Judge James McNulty that gardai on patrol arrived at the main street in the village where a number of drivers were doing doughnuts in the middle of the road, observed by a large crowd. Sgt Kelly said that on the gardai's arrival two of the cars sped away and a third reversed but stayed at the scene. Gardai spoke with the driver, who was Barry McIntyre, 21, of Kingsland, Ballinhassig in Co Cork. He was then arrested for dangerous driving. The court heard that there was a set of other wheels and a two-way radio, among other items, found in a search of the car. The judge was told that Mr McIntyre had been stopped for a similar incident in the past and had also been warned about non-conforming number plates in the past. when detected in Drinagh in March the plates were again non-conforming. Mr McIntyre's solicitor, Colette McCarthy, said her client was an apprentice in refrigeration and airconditioning and that he was meeting the case but seeking to avoid a disqualification from driving. "He was the lackey left behind in relation to this driving," she said. "I think this was something that had been planned. This is going on all over the country and it is a definite problem in west Cork. Gardai said they did wish to proceed with a prosecution for dangerous driving but the Judge convicted Mr McIntyre of careless driving, fining him 1,000, also convicting him for the non-conforming plates, with another fine of 500. However, he said while it was at "the high end of careless driving" and "exhibition driving", Mr McIntyre would not receive a disqualification. A new organisation to promote diversity and gender equality in the fire service has been launched at the annual conference of Chief Fire Officers today. The Women's Fire Service Network is designed to attract more women to work in the fire service. Currently, just 2.5% of Ireland's firefighters are women, with this figure falling to 1.6% when it comes to retained firefighters. Dany Cotton, the commissioner of the London Fire Brigade, addressed the conference about the steps taken to promote gender equality in London. When she joined the London Fire Brigade, just 30 of the 9,000-strong brigade in London were female but balance is improving, she said. "Things still arent brilliant but we are making progress," Ms Cotton said. "A lot of people dont understand the role of a firefighter and it is about breaking down perceptions of what the job entails. It is about challenging the mainstream media and fighting outdated stereotypes by using the term 'firefighter' instead of 'fireman'." Celina Barrett, Co Kildare's chief fire officer, described the current number of women working in the sector as 'abysmal'. Ms Barrett is one of just two female chief fire officers in Ireland. She joined the Dublin fire service as one of their first two female firefighters 24 years ago and has been a chief fire officer for eight years. "Just 1.6% of our retained firefighters are women; it is abysmal," she said. The rate in Ireland is not too different to many international counterparts, she added. "There are barriers. The term 'fireman', for example, is exclusionary," she said. The general stereotypes about the role are issues. People picture firefighters as big strong men but our teams are diverse and our roles are diverse. They have different skills and would benefit from more women. Educational campaigns and community outreach are part of the campaign to get more women to sign up. Dave Carroll, chairperson of the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA), said now is the time to examine the lack of diversity in the Irish Fire Service. "We are facing a fundamental re-design of the service to make it fit for purpose," he said. "In that re-design, we need to ensure that the design is one that fits men and women equally. The idea that women are not a good fit for the fire service, particularly the retained fire service, is unacceptable. We must work to turn it on its head such that we can say at some point in the future that our fire service is a very good fit for women, which will, in turn, ensure that it is a very good fit for all." The contempt finding could be referred to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a Justice Department official who would be likely to defend rather than oppose Barr. Democratic House leaders could also file a lawsuit, though the case could take months or even years to resolve. Some committee members have suggested they also could fine Barr as he withholds information. Some of the cabling for the part of the 930m Celtic Interconnector, from France to Ireland, may run along the former Midleton-Youghal railway. It will ultimately be linked to a 10-acre electrical converter site, which may end up being located at the former Amgen site near Carrigtwohill. These are just a few of the suggestions that Eirgrid engineers are looking at for the project, having narrowed down the locations for the landfall of a submarine cable in Ireland and its connection to a converter station which will hook up to the national grid. It looks increasingly like the landfall area will be at one of Youghal's beaches. Eoghan Tuite, the Celtic Connector's onshore project manager, told a meeting of the East Cork Municipal District Council that they were now working on a handful of possible locations for the landfall and converter sites. He said he expected the preferred locations to be identified before the end of the year and as it is a Strategic Infrastructure project, Eirgrid will make a planning application directly to Bord Pleanala, "probably next summer". The interconnector will transmit high voltage direct current (DC) from Brittany which will then be converted into alternating current (AC) at the converter station. When the project is completed, which is expected to be in 2026, it will supply enough electricity to power 450,000 homes daily. Mr Tuite said work on the beach ultimately identified for the landfall of the submarine cable would take about two months to complete. Youghal-based Cllr Mary Linehan-Foley said she was concerned that this could prove disruptive to her town's tourism revenue. Mr Tuite replied that Eirgrid would do that work off-season, which she welcomed. Councillors were also concerned that work on the land cable would lead to multiple road closures. Cllr Michael Hegarty said the obvious way to lessen the impact was to duct the land cable along the former Midleton-Youghal railway, which Cork County Council plans to turn into a greenway. Mr Tuite said Eirgrid was looking at this, but would have to hold detailed talks with Irish Rail to see if the company had any plans in the future to reopen the railway line. Cllr Hegarty added that if the land cable went along the rail corridor the logical place to build the converter station was at the former Amgen site, which is close to Midleton. He said this would cause far less disruption than digging up roads to bring the cable to other shortlisted sites in the Knockraha, Lisgoold and Lemlara areas. Mr Tuite said further geological investigations were needed at the Amgen site, because there were underground streams in the area. Cllr Danielle Twomey said there were a lot of objections to converter plans in the three villages. Mr Tuite acknowledged that objections had been made by people living in Knockraha to one of the potential sites for the converter. Eirgrid is looking at a site there known as The Rae. It is believed that dozens of British soldiers and so-called informers were killed there by an IRA unit led by Martin Corry during the War of Independence. Locals do not want the site disturbed as they regard it as a burial ground. Just seven purpose-built student beds have been completed in Limerick since the launch of the government's Rebuilding Ireland strategy in 2016. A new progress update issued by the Department of Education and Skills shows that the vast majority of new student beds have been built in Dublin. In all, a total of 6,362 purpose-built student beds have been built since the strategy launched in mid-2016, 80% of which have been constructed in the capital. According to the report, which tracks progress until the end of March 2019, 413 purpose-built beds have been finished in Cork, with 510 completed in Galway and 296 in Kildare. The remaining seven were developed in Limerick, falling far short of the demand in the city. Ahead of the 2018 college term, the University of Limerick appealed to private homeowners in the city to rent out rooms to students in need of accommodation. Just 1,079 of the beds delivered since 2016 were developed by higher education institutions, with the remainder delivered by the private sector. At present, there are a further 6,007 beds in development. Again, these are mainly focused around Dublin, where 4,713 of the 'on site' developments are located. A further 483 are in Kildare. In Cork, despite a plethora of approvals for developments, there are just 417 beds in the works, according to the report. Plans for an additional 1,781 beds have been approved for Cork but have yet to start. In total, there are 6,005 approved beds located around the country, though none are in Limerick, indicating that the accommodation crisis in the city is showing no signs of slowing. Again, the private sector is dominating, with 4,556 of the approved beds located in private developments. Applications for a further 2,880 have been submitted, with more than half of these located in Dublin. In 2017, the Department of Housing introduced the Strategic Housing Development (SHD) fast-track planning scheme. Under this, student accommodation complexes of more than 200 beds are decided on by An Bord Pleanala to speed up the planning process. As of the end of March 2019, 13 developments availed of the fast-track planning process. Of these, just four have been moved on-site. At the launch of Rebuilding Ireland, the government targeted 7,000 new beds by the end of 2019 and 21,000 by 2024. A small community project in Cork that encourages people to pick up three pieces of plastic whenever they visit the coast is fast gaining momentum, writes Rebecca Stiffe. What began as a small community project in a coastal village in Cork, is now fast gaining momentum and co-founder Jim Upton has no intention of slowing down. Take 3 for the Sea is really as simple as it sounds. Originally founded in Australia by three friends, it has grown considerably, and inspires people worldwide to pick up three pieces of plastic whenever they visit the coast. I live in Crosshaven, surrounded by the ocean and facing the harbour, says Jim. And you know, were all watching the TV programmes like Blue Planet and becoming more and more aware of the plastic. After seeing a post on Facebook a few months ago of a plaque on a beach saying Take 3 for the Sea, he shared it to his own profile and got the usual likes and comments of support, but felt frustrated with not directly doing anything about it. A few calls later, Jim got in touch with Audrey Buckley, a Fianna Fail candidate and fellow Crosshaven resident who is on the Tidy Towns Committee and she agreed something needed to be done, as did Aoife Deane from the Centre for Marine and Renewable Energy. We have to start seeing plastic differently, says Jim. We cant all have an argument saying the supermarkets should do it. They have a limit of what they can do. We have these lovely beaches that everyone in Cork would be aware of and this summer people will throng those beautiful beaches that local people have cleaned and leave their plastic behind. Jim personally funded four plaques made by local sculptor Mike Wilkins for the Fountainstown, Myrtleville, Graball and Church Bay beaches, and was pleasantly surprised when a group of young people fundraised 140 for the cause. A UK art installation piece of Bertie the Seabass, right, was part of the inspiration for Seamus the Salmon, a 4m x 1.5m salmon that will be made entirely from marine grade steel and will travel around the country and bring awareness to the Take 3 for the Sea campaign. Its all about awareness, says Audrey. You read the plaque and youre more inclined to actually do something about it. "In schools, Aoife is going in to TY students and has been teaching them about how to stand in front of other groups and talk about Take 3 for the Sea, so theyre our ambassadors. "Theyre very eager to help, and every year new kids will be coming in and learning about it and theyll learn from each other. An early blitz of the beaches collected an entire truckload of rubbish and plastic, and Audrey says it can be disheartening for volunteers to see cans strewn along the coast the next day after spending so long cleaning, but change is definitely happening. I was at the beach two days ago and I actually saw two ten-year-old girls picking up rubbish with their own litter pickers! So the message is definitely getting across, she says. Take 3 for the Sea has the backing of multiple organisations in the area; from hairdressers and beauty salons with special offers, to restaurants creating starters after Three for the Sea, to ice cream shops with three for two deals, all donating the proceeds to the cause. There is not one business or club in the village that is not support of us, says Jim. Jim hopes that local businesses and those who profit from the likes of The Wild Atlantic Way might think about giving back to the ocean and perhaps get encouraged to help fund more plaques in their own areas. Left to right Liam Kennedy, Crosshaven; Jim Upton, Crosshaven; Audrey Buckley, Crosshaven Development Committee, and Colin Morehead, vice-admiral, RCYC. We originally planned for four plaques, and our hope was if a small coastal village like Crosshaven community can come together and do this, hopefully other communities will see it and replicate them, and they would start to appear all around Cork Harbour and spread all around the country. I just think if there were plaques it would be like the Angelus It would encourage people to take a moment and really think about it. A UK art installation piece of Bertie the Seabass made entirely out of stainless steel coupled with the realisation that 2019 is the Year of the Salmon caused a lightbulb to go off in Jims brain and the idea of Seamus the Salmon was born. The salmon is synonymous with Ireland, from smoked salmon to the Salmon of Knowledge. The salmon is so obvious, it crosses the ocean and rivers and lakes and back to where it was spawned. With plans for Seamus already drawn up, the goal now is to fundraise as much as possible for Mike Wilkins to be able to construct a stunning 4m x 1.5m salmon made entirely from marine grade steel and solar lighting that will travel around the country and bring awareness to the campaign, but help is needed from businesses and larger corporations to finance it. Right now, they have just two on board: The Good Fish Company and Kingspan. Our hope is that Seamus will be funded by corporate groups, and well set up a logistic plan and he can move around the country, appear at different places, and every year hell come back to Cork harbour, where he was spawned, explains Jim. The installation of the Fountainstown plaque takes place on June 2 as part of The Cork Harbour Festivals Family Day event. Find out here: www.seafest.ie/en/ What is it about Victoria Beckham that makes her such a beauty icon exactly? Personally, I have great respect for her and I know that many feel the same way, but it is difficult to pinpoint why we want to delve into her skincare kit more than wed have the same urge towards Geri Haliwell, for example. At 45, Victoria Beckham doesnt try to look outlandishly young for her age, at least when we consider she is solidly a part of the celebrity realm and not one of us normal humans. In the last decade, she has consistently nailed elegance, balanced carefully between classic and contemporary. Her excellently maintained skin is a massive contributor to this specific aesthetic, in my opinion. Unlike some, Victoria is actually quite forthcoming with what is in her skincare routine, and has been for decades. Cult brands such as Dermalogica and Biologique Recherche have been mainstays in Victorias routine for some time, and thankfully, she has recently revealed her full current routine. However, as one may imagine, it isnt the most accessible, coming in at just under a cool 1,000. My belief when it comes to skincare is that the ingredients youre getting on to your skin are what is important, not the price of your products, and there are plenty of much more affordable options if you feel like duping Mrs Beckhams routine. According to her facialist, Melanie Grant, Victoria starts her day with a cleansing oil, specifically the Purity Solution Nourishing Cleansing Oil from Australian brand Cosmedix. The key ingredients of this cleansing oil are argan oil, olive oil, neem oil and moringa oil, natural oils that are rich in skin-beneficial vitamins such as vitamin E, fatty acids and provide the skin with antioxidant protection. This cleansing oil doesnt break the bank at $35 (approximately 30) but you will struggle to get your paws on it in Ireland. The Caudalie Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil, on the other hand, is 20 and quite widely available, and contains sweet almond oil and grapeseed oil. These oils arent the same oils but still have all of those fantastic fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidant benefits. Vitamins A, C and E are core skin vitamins that reduce inflammation in the skin, assist with concerns like premature ageing and pigmentation and are potent antioxidants by nature, and this is no secret to Victoria. She follows up her cleanse with the iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum (approximately 120), which is packed with the aforementioned vitamins. After using the CosMedix Eye Genius eye cream ($70), Victoria applies the much-hyped Augustinus Bader The Cream ($205). The Cream is perhaps one of the most unique products in her routine, considering it contains a patented ingredient created by Professor Bader called TFC8 or Trigger Factor Complex, which is said to trigger the skins own renewal systems. Professor Baders lifetime worth of work and research in the medical field led to the discovery of a method that can bring on the bodys stem cell healing process, so we can assume that the TFC8 technology is based on this, in some respects. Although Im personally not aware of any other product that contains this elusive ingredient, Environs Focus Care Colostrum Gel (47, available from store.theskinnerd.com and selected salons nationwide) works to introduce growth factors to the skin which help to soothe and strengthen the skin and bring about healing. Her morning routine is topped off with a broad spectrum SPF 50 that is formulated specifically for her but in my opinion, any high factor SPF that protects from both UVA and UVB damage will do the trick and should be worn every single day. All in all, Victoria has a very well-rounded skincare routine that hits on all of my own personal nerdie skin cornerstones. Unlike Posh herself, Id give it the verdict of imitable, if you feel so inclined. The Nerdie Pick IMAGE C A C E Hydrating Antioxidant Serum. As you may guess from its name, the IMAGE Vital C Hydrating Antioxidant Serum is your skins daily multivitamin filled with vitamin A, C and E, as well as a polypeptide complex, green tea extract and healing centella asiatica. Its fantastic for brightening the skin, preventing accelerated ageing daily and makes the skin feel super plump. It works with essentially all skin types, even sensitive skin, except for those who would suffer from congestion, and can be mixed in with other serums or creams to cut the time it takes to carry out your skincare regime. IMAGE Vital C A C E Hydrating Antioxidant Serum, 67.00, at store.theskinnerd.com and selected salons nationwide. Name: Bernie OSullivan Occupation: Co-founder of Forest & Flock Whats your background? For most of my adult life, I have worked in hospitality. This is where I learned my most valuable skills that make me who I am today. I returned to live in my hometown Bantry, just over seven years ago. Little did I know then where I would be today! Forest & Flock first took form in December 2017, as a 30-day pop-up. Megan Clancy, Aine Crowley, Maeve Murphy and I were the four brains behind it. It was a magical experience and when it came to our last day, I knew that this was most definitely only the beginning. Maeve and I opened our permanent venture to celebrate Irish craft and design in May 2018. Whats a typical workday like for you? My day begins with a coldwater swim. I joined a lovely crew of sea swimmers last December. Its the best place to keep your head clear, and valuable time in preparation for the day. Our shop hours run from 9.30am to 6.30pm. You cant beat the feeling of opening your own front door to the public each morning. I am there almost every day, and this allows me to get first-hand feedback on the overall shop, the work and make strong customer relations. Throughout the day, I keep in touch with the artists, build on our social media presence, and remain open to what the day itself brings. In our first year it has been lessons of prioritising, patience, and adaptability, in line with building a sustainable craft shop. Tell us about a recent/favourite project or design you have worked on? The setting up of Forest & Flock is my greatest love so far. Our building is a sub-section of that which was once Supervalu in the town. Working with this structural space was challenging. I started at the basics: we had oceans of space and light and did not feel the need to clutter this. Comfort, style, connection and aesthetically inspiring were at the forefront of my design. When surrounded by delicate and original art, there can be at times a sense of fear, or of not understanding the set-up of Forest & Flock aims to alter this. I also ensured that the customer experience of the shop remains completely wheelchair and buggy-accessible, and our kids table lends itself to a relaxed, family-friendly visit. Bean Dolan (Beantree Woodwork) is responsible for our spacious purpose-built tiered shelving, and our adorned counter. This is the biggest piece of art in the shop; a Macrocarpa solid countertop with an aerial view of Bantry Bay on its front. It is our meeting point of the shop. Whats your design style? Non-fussy, honest and authentic I am instinctively drawn to a mix of classic and vintage. What/who inspires your work? I am a firm believer that there is the right place for everything. That is why I love the challenge and beauty of curating the shop. I am also inspired by the human self. We all have the power within us to be our best self, and to use our best skills. When you see more people doing this for themselves, as you do in West Cork, you are inspired to back yourself a bit too. Whats your favourite trend at the moment (if you have any)? You cant beat unique and personal style this is what I constantly seek. Whats your most treasured possession? My vintage writing desk at home, its where I am my most creative self, and where sometimes I just muse about life! Who would be your favourite designer, or style inspiration? I love the skills some people have with the natural world: I am forever admiring the works of Jill Wild, Ruth Fortune, and Hanako Floristry. What would be a dream project for you to work on? Im driven by all that Ive learned in my hospitality years and Id love to add an additional element to Forest & Flock once its ready. Have you any design tips for us? Work in harmony with what you are naturally given. Sometimes less is more. Enjoy colour. - www.forestandflock.ie - Instagram: @forestandflock Next weekend, six quirky little pavilions with an added edible component will pop up overnight around the Cork city, the most visual aspects of Design POP (May 17-19), a new festival of design which the organisers hope will go on to become an annual fixture in the citys creative calendar. The pavilions and accompanying installations are the fruits of collaborations between six designers and six local food and beverage producers, endeavouring to create bespoke constructions that reflect and support the ethos of each of the food brands and, in choosing to site the constructions in public spaces, draw in the engagement of a local populace certain to be charmed by these temporary little spaces, which become a de facto food trail around the Leeside over the course of the weekend, offering stimulus for both belly and brain. Born and raised in Monkstown, Cork, Amy McKeogh graduated first in her year in Architectural Studies in Cork, in 2014, going on to secure a highly prestigious placement with Dublin-based firm Heneghan Peng (HP), one of Irelands most progressive architectural firms. I was always interested in architecture, recalls Amy. My mother always remembers a drawing competition in my school when I was in fifth or sixth class and while everyone else was doing snowmen, I was doing a church. "She knew she had an architect on her hands fairly early on. I knew fairly early on that it was a creative profession its why I like this whole pavilion idea, it is very creative and very immediate, the ideas are realised in a comparatively short space of time. I worked on the National Gallery project the whole time I was with HP and it still wasnt finished by the time I moved on. After HP, McKeogh moved on to a large commercial London firm to work on a case study, a requirement for becoming fully qualified as a chartered architect, and, while there, encountered the internationally-renowned Clerkenwell Design Week, Britains leading independent design festival with three days of exhibits and events spread around the local area of Clerkenwell, in London. It was my first time experiencing it and there were a few moments and events that were really special. In our local park where we used to go for lunch, a beautiful installation just popped up and it was amazing to see the vibrancy of the thing, the older generation and the kids, all interacting and playing with it, it was such a lovely experience, all these beautiful, colourful installations in an urban context, it was just such a fun week in this gritty part of London. "Seeing the amount of people, the atmosphere and what it brought to the area, I thought, thats the kind of thing that could really work in Ireland. And I thought Cork would be the perfect place to do it. Obviously being from Cork, I knew the place well but Dublin is that bit busier and things can get lost or fly under the radar and Cork is really good at embracing things like this that happen in the city, events like the film festival, the Midsummer festival and, of course, the Long Table dinner, on the South Mall. All of those things, Cork people really engage with and celebrate so why wouldnt I want to bring it to my home town. It is the synergies arising from transdisciplinary collaboration, between designers and food producers, that add a unique local element to Design POP, with McKeogh admitting she is a food lover but no expert and an impatient cook, came at it more from a design perspective. To me, it was a design festival but the food connection came about through the process of thinking about what really represents Cork, what do Cork people really engage with and developed more and more and as the food producers began collaborating with the designers, it gave the pavilion designs so much more substance. "It wasnt because I loved food as much as design, it was probably a more pragmatic strategy to draw in more people, to get more people interested by drawing on a strong local interest but the more and more it has developed, the more I realise that the two marry together really well. Collaborators include sculptor Alex Pentek, who produced the iconic sculpture, Kindred Spirits, sited in Midleton and celebrating the financial donation of the Choctaw Nation tribe to the Irish people during the famine, and Cork-born printmaker and illustrator Shane ODriscoll and McKeoghs own Fior Studios, a Dublin-based architecture and design collective. The designer talks to the food producer about their brand and what they want the space to be, how they want to communicate with the public. What sort of atmosphere do you want? How do you want people to interact with it? I want the public to know these are representations of the ethos of the food producer and that is represented in the designs. "And all bar one will have the food producer offering foods to taste. As well as the physical constructions and collaborations, there is a cerebral element to Design POP, including a series of talks, panel discussions and workshops, along with design and art exhibitions. Largely based in Thompson House, it will also host a small food market for the weekend and, while it is naturally skewed towards McKeoghs own area of expertise in the fields of architecture and design, there is also a healthy plank of food programming including Form, Function + Fresh Produce, featuring nationally renowned Cork-based chefs Denis Cotter (Cafe Paradiso), Takashi Miyazaki (Miyazaki, Ichigo Ichie) and Rory OConnell (Ballymaloe Cookery School) and, emphasising the very all-encompassing public nature of the festival, the programme also includes Childrens arts and crafts workshops and an Older Adults Tea Party. Cork has a reputation for innovation and creativity in the area of design and I would like Design POP to celebrate that. Even if it rains, it will still go ahead but now we just have to hope for some good weather to show off the pavilions at their best! The Collaborators Location: Emmet Place Designer: Shane ODriscoll Food Producer: Banana Melon Cork native, Shane ODriscoll is an Irish Printmaker and visual artist who practices mainly in screen printing and his work can be found in The National Gallery of Ireland and Aras an Uachtarain. Banana Melon Kitchen is a plant-based Cork company run by food stylist and chef Suzanna Melinn. Location: Cornmarket Street Designer: Alex Pentek Food Producer: Applebee Bakes Alex Pentek is fast developing an international reputation for creating large scale site specific work and gallery based works on temporary mediums and sound performances. Applebee Bakes is a small scale production bakery located in Douglas, Cork, owned and operated by Anna Forde and producing unique homemade, handcrafted signature cakes. Location: Bishop Lucey Park Designer: Conor Merriman Food Producer: SOMA Conor Merriman is a freelance illustrator and designer, who has worked all over Ireland and in Europe. SOMA Coffee Company is a high-grade speciality Coffee Roaster and Cafe, based in Cork city and run by siblings Irene and Damien Twohig, along with Alex Bruce. Location: Elizabeth Fort Designer: Fior Studios Food Producer: All Full Up Fior studios is a multidisciplinary design collective of architects, graphic designers, illustrators and designers based in the fine arts industry. All Full Up is owned and operated by Noretta Brosnan and produces organic hand pressed nut milks. Location: Nano Nagle Place Designer: Alan Macilwraith, JCA Architects Food Producer: Good Day Deli JCA Architects is a broad-based practice incorporating architects, project managers, architectural conservation consultants, architectural technologists and graphic artists with supporting administration providing comprehensive and rapid design and execution process. Good Day Deli is restaurant run by Cork-born Clare Condon and her New Zealand partner Kristin Makirere, providing a menu based on using sustainable foods and championing the environment and community. Location: The Boardwalk Designer: Luke Hickson, Meitheal Design Food Producer: My Goodness Meitheal Design was established in 2003 and includes experienced and younger Irish and international architects, planners, project managers and secondary discipline specialists. Originally from Sydney, Luke Hickson moved to Ireland and is now a strong contributor to the Irish creative design community. My Goodness is a health-focused business specialising in vegan, raw, sugar-free, gluten-free and fermented probiotic products and is owned and operated by Texan Virginia OGara and her Donegal-raised husband Donal OGara. In Skopje, Francis praised North Macedonias openness to migrants, backing its quest for membership in the European Union. The Mass was dedicated to the hunger for God. For him, We have become accustomed to eating the stale bread of disinformation and ending up as prisoners of dishonour, labels and ignominy. Skopje (AsiaNews) Pope Francis today visited Skopje, the capital of Northern Macedonia, the birthplace of Mother Teresa, who was remembered in each of the three events held this morning, which were centred on the values of fraternity, integration, and care of the poor. The pontiff was welcomed with great enthusiasm by thousands of people present at the late morning Mass (pictured) in a city where Catholics are less than 1 per cent. In his address during his meeting with North Macedonias president and other authorities, Francis praised the countrys openness to migrants who knock on its doors. He also expressed support for its desire to join the European Union. During the liturgy, he spoke of the worlds hunger for God today. We have become accustomed to eating the stale bread of disinformation and ending up as prisoners of dishonour, labels and ignominy. We thought that conformism would satisfy our thirst, yet we ended up drinking only indifference and insensitivity. We fed ourselves on dreams of splendour and grandeur, and ended up consuming distraction, insularity and solitude. We gorged ourselves on networking, and lost the taste of fraternity. We looked for quick and safe results, only to find ourselves overwhelmed by impatience and anxiety. Prisoners of a virtual reality, we lost the taste and flavour of the truly real. Responding to the greetings by North Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov, Francis described the country as a bridge between East and West and a meeting-point for numerous cultural currents, praising its capacity for integration and coexistence. For the Holy Father, North Macedonias precious patrimony is its multiethnic and multi-religious countenance. He described the country as a crucible of cultures and ethnic and religious identities [that] has resulted in a peaceful and enduring coexistence in which those individual identities have found expression and developed without rejecting, dominating or discriminating against others. [. . .] Here, in fact, the different religious identities of Orthodox, Catholics, other Christians, Muslims and Jews, and the ethnic differences between Macedonians, Albanians, Serbs, Croats, and persons of other backgrounds, have created a mosaic in which every piece is essential for the uniqueness and beauty of the whole. Francis went on to stress the generous efforts made by your Republic [. . .] to welcome and provide assistance to the great number of migrants and refugees coming from different Middle Eastern countries. [. . .] The ready solidarity offered to those in such great need people who had left behind so many of their dear ones, to say nothing of their homes, their work and their homeland does you honour. It says something about the soul of this people that, having itself experienced great privations, you recognize in solidarity and in the sharing of goods the route to all authentic development. It is my hope that you will cherish the chain of solidarity that emerged from that emergency, and thus support all volunteer efforts to meet the many different forms of hardship and need. I wish likewise to pay homage in a very special way to one of your illustrious fellow-citizens, who, moved by the love of God, made love of neighbour the supreme law of her life. She won the admiration of the whole world and pioneered a specific and radical way of devoting ones life to the service of the abandoned, the discarded, and the poorest of the poor. I am naturally referring to the woman universally known as Mother Teresa of Calcutta. The last event of the morning was the Mass celebrated in Macedonia Square, in the centre of which stands a statue dedicated to Alexander the Great. After the welcoming ceremony, Pope Francis went to the Memorial House of Mother Teresa greeted by an enthusiastic crowd. In his homily, Francis spoke of the hunger for God citing the Gospel: "Whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst" (Jn 6:35). Let us not be afraid to say it clearly: Lord, we are hungry. We are hungry, Lord, for the bread of your word, which can open up our insularity and our solitude. We are hungry, Lord, for an experience of fraternity in which indifference, dishonour and ignominy will not fill our tables or take pride of place in our homes. We are hungry, Lord, for encounters where your word can raise hope, awaken tenderness and sensitize the heart by opening paths of transformation and conversion. We are hungry, Lord, to experience, like that crowd, the multiplication of your mercy, which can break down our stereotypes and communicate the Fathers compassion for each person, especially those for whom no one cares: the forgotten or despised. Let us not be afraid to say it clearly: we are hungry for bread, Lord: the bread of your word, the bread of fraternity. Hunger for bread, hunger for fraternity, hunger for God. How well Mother Teresa knew all this, and desired to build her life on the twin pillars of Jesus incarnate in the Eucharist and Jesus incarnate in the poor! Love received and love given. Two inseparable pillars that marked her journey and kept her moving, eager also to quench her own hunger and thirst. She went to the Lord exactly as she went to the despised, the unloved, the lonely and the forgotten. In drawing near to her brothers and sisters, she found the face of the Lord, for she knew that love of God and love of neighbour become one: in the least of the brethren we find Jesus himself, and in Jesus we find God (Deus Caritas Est, 15). And that love alone was capable of satisfying her hunger. About 3 a.m. last July 1, a 29-year-old woman who had called police for assistance at her home said Deanes expressed interest in her outfit, took hold of her wrist and extended her arm so that her shorts and tank top were exposed, prosecutors said. He also asked why she had been out so late and pulled on the front and back pockets of her shorts, they said. In his book What Really Matters in the End?, Atwal Gwandi, a surgeon at the Brigham Hospital in Boston, reflects on the challenge of caring for his sick father and raises deeply important questions as to what should be the key issues to guide us through life. As I leave the position of CEO of Cork University Hospital after 27 years, I am given to reflect on this question in the context of the hospital and its future. The public, through taxation, invests substantial money annually in hospitals such as CUH, which spends 370m every year (1m per day) and they are entitled to expect a service that befits this funding commitment. Those expectations are ever-changing, as a result of increased awareness of new treatments, therapies, technologies, and expertise that are communicated through the internet, social media, and other means. On the other hand, the capacity of the health system to deliver on those expectations is constrained by, for example, available resources, adherence to provisions in employment contracts, shortcomings in healthcare delivery systems, and sometimes inertia. In addition, requirements to adhere to standards set by outside agencies such as Hiqa, external accreditation bodies, regulatory bodies, and legislative provisions place considerable strain on resources but provide a necessary assurance to the public of conformance to standards. CUH is the largest and most complex hospital in Ireland, with more than 40 different specialties and over 100 departments employing 4,200 multi-professional staff. This complexity is reflected in the fact that there are many tens of thousands of moving parts in the functioning of the hospital on a daily basis in the form of decisions made in many different domains, for example, on the treatment and provision of care for more than 500,000 patient visits to the hospital annually, preparing 1m meals per year, and the prioritisation and allocation of resources. Consistent with the principle of singular accountability as CEO, I am responsible for every one of those actions undertaken by all staff in the course of their work. The scale of the challenge is to deliver care of a consistently high quality to every patient and to do so in a way that is personalised for each individual within the level of approved resources. The greatest resource that CUH (and every other hospital) has is the commitment and professionalism of its staff whose values and beliefs translate into compassionate, empathetic care on a consistent basis. In support of staff who deliver care, whether in the catering department or neurosurgical department, it falls to hospital leadership to allocate resources equitably, in recognition of the contribution made by every department to patient care. The challenge to maximise that resource demands rigorous identification of cost-reducing opportunities and using scientific techniques such as lean management; waste is being reduced and in the case of CUH, the attainment of an annual saving of 3% efficiency using lean management would release 12m in efficiencies for redistribution in the hospital. These are not abstract issues but are the reality faced by CUH (and other hospitals) on a daily basis. It is a privilege to be in a position to work with colleagues who make a meaningful and quantifiable difference to the health and quality of life of our patients and by extension to their families every day of the year. It follows that there is a significant responsibility on hospital leadership to advocate in the public interest and in the hospital interest for the resources required to achieve quality at a level that is acknowledged as equating with best international standards. Patients need to know, for example, that if they are being treated for cancer, the protocols that govern their care accord with best practice and that they have access, if available, to drugs that are being used in leading edge international clinical trials. The development of comprehensive programmes in each of our 40 different specialties that provide quality care is a significant responsibility that demands vision, ambition, and energy from many levels of leadership in CUH. Failure to meet these challenges and to develop the range and complexity of services for our population would represent a failure to society and to those in society who need comprehensive medical care. The creation and maintenance of a culture that is based on values such as empathy, the need to offer hope to patients, supporting innovation and change but particularly demonstrating respect, helps to define the soul of the hospital. It is a given that patients should be treated with respect, but it is also critically important to acknowledge the need to respect each other as colleagues and to respect the environment. CUH is now recognised as a comprehensive multi-speciality teaching hospital that has the capacity to gain international recognition for its work in key niche services such as cancer care and cardiovascular medicine. In this regard, it is one of perhaps three hospitals in Ireland that has the critical mass and expertise to achieve this goal and the attainment of this level of international recognition will require continued differentiation from other hospitals which will take several forms. In the first instance, it will require the development of formal agreements with international leading hospitals. This has commenced with CUH having a formal arrangement with the Christie Cancer Centre in Manchester which is recognised as one of two leading cancer centres in Britain. In addition, there is a need for the continued development of the academic base in CUH in niche clusters of services and a broadening of clinical trials which give patients access to the very latest drugs that are being trialled by manufacturers and work in both these domains is well advanced in CUH. The recent designation by the Government of CUH as one of two trauma centres in Ireland marks a very important commitment to the development of many services that are related to the management of trauma and this will increase the critical mass of expertise in those services to enable the hospital to provide improved services to our population over the medium term. There is little doubt that there is a gravitational pull towards larger hospitals that is dictated in part by the attractiveness of those hospitals to clinical experts who have options as to where they wish to work and are attracted by a broad case mix, an academic focus that sustains innovation, and a culture that makes hospitals such as CUH a good environment in which to work. In the final analysis, we are but custodians of the roles we fulfil in life and it is a remarkable privilege to be charged with the responsibility of contributing to public life and to the delivery and development of something as critically important as healthcare which impacts on everybody. The opportunity to shape and define the values that underpin the delivery of quality care to patients and to help create the teams and the environment in which that care is given to each patient individually and empathically, are deeply important and will, I hope, endure in the reputation and legacy of CUH. The delivery of personalised care for every patient that is driven by those altruistic values, will I hope, be enduring and represents perhaps what really mattered in the end. Next week, Social Justice Ireland and Trocaire will co-host a hustings event ahead of the European Elections on May 24th. Dr. Sean Healy sets out the five key policy asks in that joint policy platform. 1. Eliminating Poverty We call on all MEPs to work to agree an EU-wide binding target and strategy to reduce the level of poverty in each country by half from its 2017 level by 2024, with a view to the complete elimination of poverty by 2030 as per SDG #1. The poverty rate across the EU in 2017 was 16.9 per cent. This should be below 8.5 per cent by 2024, and at (or below) half the current rate in each EU member state. The strategy should include specific targets for children under 18 (20.1 per cent in 2017) and people over 65 (14.6 per cent in 2017). 2. Championing Climate Justice We call on all MEPs to acknowledge that the EUs existing 2030 climate targets fall far short of the EUs fair share of the global effort required to deliver on the Paris Agreement, and that the window of opportunity to avert climate catastrophe is quickly closing. Elected MEPs should: Promote an EU agenda on climate action that commits to reducing EU emissions to net zero before 2050, and champion equitable delivery of a net zero global emissions target in its international diplomacy; Support the phasing out of extraction and burning of all fossil fuels in Europe as soon as possible, and call on European banks and Member States to follow Irelands lead in divesting from fossil fuels, investing instead in a safe and sustainable future. Ensure that the EU promotes global and European zero carbon transitions are managed that are timely, just, and benefit the poorest and marginalized members of society by integrating strong social measures and human rights principles and safeguard mechanisms. 3. Policy Coherence on the Sustainable Development Goals We call on all MEPs to commit to ensuring: That the EU budget is fully aligned with the UNs Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is used to advance environmental sustainability, human rights, gender equality and wellbeing within and outside the EU, including through the Multiannual Financial Framework; That each policy measure or piece of European legislation being proposed by their parliamentary grouping in Brussels promotes the achievement of at least one of the SDGs, and that the SDG being promoted is clearly highlighted within. No new policy measure or legislation should hinder the achievement of any of the SDGs, but should instead serve to further their cause. This should also apply to the work of MEPs in budgetary and committee work. 4. Delivery of the European Pillar of Social Rights We call on all MEPs to act to ensure the delivery of the European Pillar of Social Rights are delivered across the areas of: Equal opportunity and access to the labour market; Fair working conditions; Social protection and inclusion. 5. Supporting UN Treaty on Business and Human Rights We call on all MEPs to commit to promoting an EU agenda on business and human rights for the next five years that includes: Supporting the development of a UN-binding treaty on business and human rights to regulate the activities of transnational corporations and other business enterprises; Ensuring that the European Commission secures a mandate for the negotiation of the parts of the Treaty that fall under EU competence, with appropriate involvement from the European Parliament. The treaty should ensure the primacy of human rights is provided for and fully implemented in all trade agreements and treaties to which the EU are a party. This should involve: Removing investor-state dispute settlement provisions from existing trade and investment agreements, and not concluding any such agreements in the future; Ensuring Human rights Impact Assessments are systematically carried out prior to concluding trade and investment agreements, and provide for the suspension or amendment of contractual provisions where these have proved a risk to human rights. Dr Sean Healy is the Director of Social Justice Ireland. The pioneering political theorists warnings about the inequities of capitalism are still relevant and will not be erased by the defacing of his tomb, writes T P OMahony. THEY can deface Marxs grave, but theyll never erase his ideas. That was the heading over a short comment piece in The Guardian newspaper, following the recent news that Karl Marxs grave in Highgate cemetery, in London, had been vandalised for the second time in less than two weeks. The second mindless act left the tomb, which has a large bronze bust of Marx on top of a high plinth, daubed with red paint and the words doctrine of hate and architect of genocide painted on it. The red paint can be removed, but a hammer was used in the earlier attack in an attempt to scrape and chip Marxs name off the marble slab at the front. The tomb also has a much-quoted Marx line inscribed on it: The philosophers have only interpreted the world in various ways; the point is to change it. Thats what Marx set out to do, laying the foundations for change in his great two-volume work Capital. You can vandalise a grave, but you cant vandalise an idea or a concept. The monument is owned by the Marx Grave Trust, which is represented by the Marx Memorial Library in Clerkenwell. The plaque on the monument was previously on the grave of Marxs wife, Jenny von Westphalen, who died on December 2, 1881, two years before him. It was moved when the remains of Marx (who died on March 14, 1883) and his wife were exhumed and reinterred in a more prominent location in the cemetery in 1954. In February 1970, in the company of an Irish missionary priest, I embarked on a strange pilgrimage, early on a snowy Sunday morning in London. After attending Mass in a local oratory, and as most of the great metropolis slumbered, we set off for Highgate Cemetery to visit the grave of the author of The Communist Manifesto. We were both admirers, because we shared the view expressed by Terry Eagleton, of Lancaster University, in his book, Why Marx Was Right: Very few thinkers, as opposed to statesmen, scientists, soldiers, religious figures and the like, have changed the course of actual history as its author. We were an odd couple, an irreverent journalist specialising in the coverage of religious affairs, and an iconoclastic priest. He had worked for a number of years in Tanzania, where he came to know its president, Julius Nyerere, who had sought, with considerable success, to adapt socialism to African conditions. And our pilgrimage was something of an oddity, too, for we were going to visit the grave of a man who was both an atheist and an icon. Here we were, two Irish Catholics, brought up in a culture that prized religion, yet paying homage yes, that indubitably was the purpose of our pilgrimage to someone who had once famously (and scandalously) said religion was the opium of the poor. Marxs argument was never with religion per se. What angered him was that he saw, as Professor Russell McCutcheon, of the University of Alabama, has explained, religion being used as a pacifier that both deadened oppressed peoples sense of pain and alienation while, simultaneously, preventing them from doing anything about their lot in life, since ultimate responsibility was thought to reside with a being who existed outside of history. Thats the sense in which Marx meant religion acted as a kind of drug. Not long before our visit, the plaque on the plinth bearing the bust of Marx had been splintered by a bomb. If he was revered in some quarters, he was a figure of hate in others, as continues to be the case. Years later, I would make my way to Dean Street, off Shaftsbury Avenue, to see the plaque on the wall of the house where Marx died in 1883. In 2018, BBC Radio 4 marked the 200th anniversary of Marxs birth ( May 5, 1818) in the German town of Trier. The BBC panellists discussed what Marx got right and what he got wrong. What is not in dispute is that not since an Augustinian priest named Martin Luther began a religious revolution by nailing a few sheets of paper to the door of a church in Wittenberg, in Germany, in 1517, has there been such a revolutionary document as the one penned by Marx in 1884. Luthers sheets of paper contained 95 theses directly challenging the power of the Papacy, and would eventually divide Christendom, giving rise to Protestantism. Marxs manifesto a mere 19 pages has been described by the historian Eric Hobsbawm as an astonishing masterpiece and would change the world. Incidentally, Hobsbawm, an unapologetic Marxist academic, is buried just a short distance from Marx in Highgate. Hobsbawm said it is almost certainly by far the most influential piece of political writing since the French Revolutionary Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen. Few scholars would quibble with that. Marx, who influenced James Connolly and the South American priests who developed liberation theology, is also damned in the eyes of many because he is seen as the progenitor of totalitarian regimes. But he cant be blamed for the terrible things that have been done in the name of a perverted version of Marxism. Leninism, Stalinism, and Maoism should never be equated with Marxism. Marx never held political power and was long dead before the Bolsheviks seized power in Russia, in 1917. Yet, the thoughts of Marx remain as relevant as ever. At a time when capitalism is facing a new crisis, and we are all living with the repercussions of how deeply unstable and socially damaging it is, he was a man who saw, more clearly than anybody else in history, its contradictions and inherent injustices. Marx believed that the ethic that governs capitalist society the idea that I will only be of service to you if it is profitable for me to be so was a detestable way to live, says Eagleton. We would not treat our friends or children in this way, so why should we accept it as a perfectly natural way of dealing with others in the public realm? The same thing had been said about the novelist Joseph Conrad. In the introduction to the Penguin Classics edition of Conrads novel The Secret Agent, Martin Seymour-Smith tells us this of the Polish-born writer: He certainly shared Marxs view that men and women should not be treated like merchandise. The insights, analyses, and warnings that Karl Marx bequeathed to us have arguably never been more relevant. That is why interest in Marx and Marxism has revived (even in the United States, now, socialism is no longer a dirty word), and why it is more important than ever to distinguish between Marxism and the shocking perversions and aberrations of Leninism, Stalinism, and Maoism, which were constructed in his name. Was ever a thinker so travestied? asked Eagleton with considerable justification. Marx was a humanist who was deeply concerned about the plight of mankind, and thought he had the answer in the classless society he envisaged emerging in the future. The world has the resources not for us all to live better, but for all of us to live well, said Eagleton. What prevents this from happening is not nature, but politics. Marx sought to alert us to that. Things can be different; he was passionate about that. Mankind is shorter by a head, his lifelong friend and collaborator, Friedrich Engels, wrote to a comrade in America when Marx died, and by the most remarkable head of our time. And Francis Wheen, the author of a 1999 biography, summarises Marxs stature as follows: Not since Jesus Christ has an obscure pauper inspired such global devotion. It was the dim awareness of this, back in 1970, that led a young Irish journalist and an Irish priest, who might have found a role in one of Graham Greenes novels, to embark on a pilgrimage to a snow-flecked grave in London. Why is the Government taking such a risk on its 3bn Broadband Plan when top officials have advised against it, asks Political Editor Daniel McConnell. Minister, please see our final departmental observations in relation to the National Broadband Plan. I strongly support these observations, Robert. Department of Public Expenditure secretary general Robert Watts last-minute plea to his minister, Paschal Donohoe, only last week to pull back from the 3bn broadband plan was unambiguous. We strongly recommend against approval of the appointment of the preferred bidder to the current NBP procurement process on the grounds of cost and affordability, impact on the National Development Plan, and on projects forgone as a result, value for money and specifically uncertain benefits, unprecedented risk for the exchequer and compatibility with Project Ireland 2040, states Watts memo. But as we know, despite his personal pleas, these strongly worded concerns were ignored by ministers with the green light given to the project. The Government has published the concerns as well as a host of internal documents which clearly show the plan as agreed by ministers on Tuesday is a massive gamble. Watt and his officials make clear that alternative, affordable, and sustainable options are feasible to achieve the same end, and crucially, they argue they would cost just 1bn, a third of the projected cost of the NBP. In their memo, Donohoes officials say that the project would require an additional capital spend of 477m between 2019 and 2022 and over 1.5bn additional in total. They argue this added funding is on top of the additional cost of the National Childrens Hospital and increased funding to tackle climate change. We do not consider that public capital investment should be expanded by more than the accelerated rate already envisaged in the NDP, they warn. The officials caution that the reallocation of funds for broadband would have serious implications for other planned investments, which would require the cancellation or delay of a wide range of projects. To fund broadband, the officials warn that a reduction of 300m in the Department of Housing would be required, meaning the cancellation of the delivery of 1,500 social houses. It will also mean a 200m reduction in Transport which equates to the entire budget last year for repairing regional roads. In Health, it will mean the cancellation of eight primary-care centres and in Education it will mean a hit of 130m and the axing of 26 primary schools. In terms of value for money, Watt and his officials say they have major concerns in relation to the cost benefit analysis, that the justification for the cost has not been demonstrated satisfactorily. This involves excessive costs and risks for the Irish taxpayer with questionable benefits, many of which are private benefits but to be funded at public cost, warn the officials. Watt and his officials also express concern that the State will not own the asset, despite investing up to 3bn in it (as compared with a private sector investment of only [figure not given]... It is a challenge to conclude that this contract represents value for money or in the best interests of the taxpayer. The officials say the risk to the State is enormous. The State is being asked to take on unprecedented risk associated with this project. Poor take-up of the service or emerging new technologies could leave the State having funded a stranded or potentially obsolete asset an asset the State will not even own. And while Government has insisted there are no alternatives, Watt and his officials state in the advice to ministers that an alternative, affordable approach does exist and will only cost 1bn. On Tuesday, at their six-hour Cabinet meeting when the NBP was approved, ministers heard of the concerns expressed by Watt and the other officials. Sources say they were not convinced by the alternative options proposed by the officials and that while they listened to the potential risks, they agreed the gamble was worth it. The huge gamble places Donohoe in a very uncomfortable position. To be so at odds with your own officials and to reject their concerns so vehemently is remarkable. But Leo Varadkar and Donohoe have staked their political reputation on this gamble in the hope the very parts of the country who have abandoned Fine Gael in 2016 will reward them at the next general election, which is expected within the next 12 months. The argument is that by standing up to the suited bureaucrats in Dublin, the Government is delivering for rural Ireland and will help its cause electorally. Donohoe yesterday defended the decision notwithstanding the concerns expressed by his most senior official. As minister I have to receive advice, but I ultimately have to make a decision in relation to what to do. He said he believes there are safeguards within the contract for the project that are capable of securing our needs as this project rolls out. The great significance of Watts complaints is that they cut to the heart of the Governments competency. Why is it taking such a risk? Many moderate and reasonable people were no doubt surprised to read that an estate agent was fined on grounds of discrimination for having advised a single mum with a toddler, who was on a HAP housing scheme, that the owner of the property would prefer to rent to a couple. Undoubtedly, this case can be looked at from different perspectives. One wonders why the owner of the property issued such an instruction. It may have been prompted by the behaviour of previous Hap tenants who thrashed and destroyed a house or apartment. In such instances the landlord/landlady finds that he or she have no redress whatsoever apart from a prolonged legal course of action under the jurisdiction of the Private Residential Tenancy Board. On the one hand, it could be argued that the estate agent erred insofar as he or she should have met the woman and used their intuitive skills and business experience to assess her suitability and records. It is very often the case that recipients of the HAP scheme prove to be excellent tenants. On the other hand, the estate agent was obviously intent on safeguarding the interests of the landlord/landlady who had employed and instructed him. This ruling indicates that owners or estate agents have no rights whatsoever in terms of choosing tenants, which is unreasonable and dangerous, as it suggests that we are living in a type of socialists state. It would be more fitting if our minister for housing put separate legislation in place to deal effectively with greedy developers and vulture fund personnel who are not only imposing unreasonably high rentals on vulnerable tenants, but also evicting others by selling off large blocks of property These predators display little compassion or ethical standards and are distorting the market for personal gain. One also wonders if Mr. Coveney should have alerted his colleague Mr. Noonan to the fact that profits from vulture fund sales were exempt from scrutiny or taxation until relatively recent times. These ministers are well remunerated for their services and should have kept their finger on the property-pulse. Surely, no one needs to be reminded of what happened during the disastrous Celtic tiger era. Many small-type landlords/landladies have made sacrifices to put their small business portfolios, of one or two houses, together in order to enhance their pensions and enjoy their golden years in some semblance of comfort. These people rarely impose unsustainable rent-reviews on well-behaved, trustworthy tenants due to the inconvenience associated with re-letting. Such private enterprises could actually be categorized as SMEs as owners and relatives usually re-decorate the properties themselves before putting them back on the market. Instead, such landlord/landladies are subjected to an ever-increasing plethora of new draconian rules and regulation devised by the minister and now supported by recent judicial findings. It could also be helpful if Mr. Coveney desisted from citing, all too frequently, a series of totally untrue figures regarding a resurgence of house building, as highlighted by Brian Carey in his recent article titled Lies Damned Lies and Unbuilt Apartments. Carey drew on statistical data to prove that very little is actually being done to alleviate the present housing crisis. He contends that the current flurry of building activity in the Dublin area illustrates an asymmetrical ratio of construction between commercial and residential properties. The award winning journalist Michael Clifford has also focused on the poor numerical skills of Messrs Varadkar and Coveney. In his recent article titled Making the Numbers Count for Nothing Clifford states that they both need a few lessons in how to do their sums. Such incompetence is unacceptable and also damages the integrity of these ambitious men. When challenging the figures put forward by the minister for housing, as part of his grand rebuilding Ireland plan, Michael Clifford maintains that they are entirely off the mark. This nonsensical situation should be re-addressed forthwith if we wish to accommodate the existing homeless while also providing accommodation for business employees who may want to re-locate in Ireland in the wake of Brexit. The current crisis needs to be addressed in an honest, effective manner. Furthermore, it is recommended that the minister and the judiciary should stop interfering with smalltype landlords/landladies lest they depart from the market completely. These properties are owned by private citizens. On has to ask oneself what will Mr Coveneys next strategy be? Compulsory acquisition perhaps if somebody else make a discriminatory complaint! Margaret Humphreys, Ballynaraha, Blarney If you would like to have your say on the issue of the day then visit here or send your submission to digitaldesk@examiner.ie Burma Four Detainees Admit to Being Arakan Army Members: Army Army troops in the 74th Anniversary of Myanmar Armed Forces Day Parade in Naypyidaw on March 27, 2019. / The Irrawaddy YANGONAfter eight days of interrogation during military detention, six out of dozens of detainees from Kyauktan Village in northern Rakhine States Rathedaung Township were transferred to Sittwe Police Station on Wednesday. Military spokesperson Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun told The Irrawaddy on Wednesday that four of the detainees had confessed to being members of the Arakan Army (AA) and that it will take action against them in line with the laws. Brig-Gen Zaw Min Tun said that the interrogations uncovered four core members of the AA and two other suspected associates. Until Wednesday morning, the military had held 83 villagers in a school in Kyauktan and in the afternoon they released about 35 detainees. Another 40 villagers remain in the custody of military troops for further investigation. The military released 126 locals on May 2 and another 48 on May 6. A Kyauktan resident told The Irrawaddy under the condition of anonymity that one of his relatives was among the six accused. He said that on Tuesday night, the six men were blindfolded and taken from the school to a navy vessel. It wasnt until later when their family members brought food for them to the school where they are being detained they found out that their relatives were gone. He said the four suspects are Ko Nyi Nyi Htay, Ko Maung Maung Naing, Ko Soe Win Kyaw and Ko Thein Aye Maung but he could not verify the two other detainees names. He said that until this morning, the village was surrounded by dozens of lines of soldiers. Since April 30, the military has arrested a total of 275 locals for questioning and locked down the entire village. Regional lawmakers, and even emergency rescue teams are banned from entering the village. On May 9, six villagers were shot dead by military troops and eight others were wounded in an incident in which eyewitnesses claim the soldiers opened fire into the crowd when one detainee tried to escape. This counters the report of the militarys spokesperson who told The Irrawaddy that the detainees attempted to grab firearms from the soldiers. Some of the wounded are receiving medical treatment in Sittwe General Hospital. Politicians from the Arakan National Party (ANP) have expressed their doubt about the militarys explanation. Despite the militarys disputed explanation of the six deaths, Union Minister of the Defense Services Lt-Gen Sein Win told The Irrawaddy on Sunday that the military established an inquiry body headed by five military officers to investigate the shooting and to find out whether soldiers acted in accordance with the law. The following day, Human Rights Watch (HRW) announced that the killing of six villagers during detention should be fully and credibly investigated by an independent body rather than a military investigation team considering that Myanmar has a long history of failing to effectively or credibly investigate alleged abuses by its own forces, rarely holding military personnel accountable. HRWs Asia director Brad Adam was quoted in the statement saying, An independent and impartial investigation is needed to bring to justice anyone responsible for wrongdoing. The Irrawaddys Naypyitaw correspondent contributed to the reporting of this story. Burma Govt Weighs Legal Action against Monk for Speeches Attacking State Counselor U Wirathu speaks at a rally against amending Article 59(f) of the Constitution, which bars Daw Aung San Suu Kyi from the presidency, on May 5, 2019 in Yangon. / Htet Wai / The Irrawaddy NAYPYITAWThe government is considering taking legal action against ultra-nationalist monk U Wirathu over his recent speeches in Yangon and Tanintharyis Myeik. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture is reviewing audio recordings of the speeches to check whether they violated any laws, ministry Permanent Secretary U Myint Oo told The Irrawaddy. It is best to follow procedures. We will surely [take action against U Wirathu], but it is important that it is done in line with procedures. We have to confirm that his speeches [violated the law]. We are examining the audio files. And well proceed as the minister has instructed us, he said. Union Minister for Religious Affairs and Culture Thura U Aung Ko was quoted in the May 7 issue of 7 Day newspaper as saying the monk would be prosecuted over speeches he made referring to State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who is also the leader of the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD). When asked about the ministers plan to prosecute the monk, U Myint Oo said: We are still looking at how to handle it. The minister may well have said that. A two-and-a-half-minute video that recently went viral on social media shows U Wirathu verbally attacking Daw Aung San Suu Kyi during a rally in Myeik on April 5 against amending Article 59(f) of the 2008 Constitution, which bars her from the presidency. [She] only knows how to put on makeup, wear fashion and walk in high heels. Whats more, [she] likes to shake her ass when [she] sees foreigners. And [I dont understand why people] want to elect someone that is lecherous as the president. We will be doomed. The country is doomed to become the one that General [Aung San] predicted, U Wirathu said. Before independence, General Aung San, Daw Aung San Suu Kyis father, urged citizens to work hard, saying the country would have to rely on prostitution otherwise. The monk also criticized the government for including foreigners on the Rakhine investigation commission. He asked why Myanmar fought to regain independence if it wanted to rely on foreign governments so much. The General risked his life for independence, because he didnt know about his daughter, the monk said. Speaking at a similar rally in front of Yangon City Hall on Sunday, the ultranationalist monk called for military-appointed lawmakers to be worshipped like the Buddha. Today, soldiers sit in Parliament, braving the wrath [of the people]. They dont get the salaries of a lawmaker. The only get their soldiers salaries. You should, in fact, worship the soldiers who protect the country despite the wrath and their [modest] soldiers salaries, he said. Ashin Ariyavumsa, the abbot of Myawady Monastery in Yangon, told The Irrawaddy that U Wirathus statements tarnish Buddhism, and that the members of the Sanghathe Buddhist clergyshould no longer accept him as a monk. He should have been banned by monks long ago. Now, Buddhist monks dare not travel abroad in yellow robes, the monk said. The abbot questioned the purpose of forming township Sangha Nayaka committees, and the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, the highest Buddhist authority in Myanmar, if they are simply going to ignore U Wirathus inflammatory actions. The Irrawaddy phoned U Wirathu for comment about the possible government action against him. The monk picked up the phone, but when he heard it was The Irrawaddy, he laughed and hung up. Notorious for his anti-Muslim rhetoric in the wake of communal violence in Rakhine State in 2012, U Wirathu was once featured on the cover of Time Magazine with the headline The Face of Buddhist Terror. The State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee banned U Wirathu from preaching sermons for one year in 2017, after he wrote on his Facebook page that he was grateful to the assassins of slain constitutional lawyer and NLD legal adviser U Ko Ni. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture said in a statement regarding the ban on U Wirathus preaching that the restrictions on the monk were due to his criticism of the government, religious hate speech made at a Dhamma talk in Kyunku, and his praise for those who have since been convicted of U Ko Nis murder. In February 2018, under pressure to clamp down on hate speech, Facebook removed U Wirathus page due to his incendiary posts about Muslims. Burma State Counsellor, Interfaith Leaders Offer Message of Unity and Understanding State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi speaks at the second Advisory Forum on National Reconciliation and Peace in Myanmar, organized by Religion for Peace. / Htet Naing Zaw / The Irrawaddy At a Naypyitaw advisory forum on national reconciliation and peace throughout Myanmar this week, the state counsellor and religious leaders of differing faiths urged people to respect one anothers faith, in order to bring about a more peaceful society. The forum, organized by the group Religion for Peace-Myanmar (RfP), was the second part of an advisory forum held over two days, on May 7 and 8. Discussions focused on five key topics: access to education, women and youth empowerment, building unity among diverse ethnic groups, accepting the importance of differing faiths and the ongoing issues in Rakhine State. RfP-Myanmar advocates for peace in Myanmar and across the world; their first such advisory forum in Myanmar was held in November. The group also promotes youth participation, seeking to integrate young peoples views through their exchanges for their Interfaith Youth Network, which they held in Yangon in March. Religious intolerance has never originated in Myanmar, said venerable monk Dr. Dhammasami, also known as Oxford Sayadaw. Myanmar was peaceful while other countries in the world had crusades. Thus, he said, Myanmar today should not allow intolerance to infiltrate its society. Myanmar people think positive, always, and we need to keep reinforcing this positive thinking. With mutual understanding, we can overcome the disputes that come from negative thinking, instead of [angry] reactions, Ashin Dhammasami told reporters in Nyapyitaw. While every religion teaches that respect and tolerance are the keys to peace, Buddhist-majority Myanmar continues to experience a number of communal conflicts sparked by differences of race and faith andin Rakhine particularlybetween Muslims and Buddhists. Whether conflicts in that state among the Rakhine and the Rohingya; the interethnic fighting in Shan State between different ethnic armed groups; or the latest conflict between the ethnic Arakan Army and the government forces, or Tatmadaw, people from different ethnic or religous backgrounds are expressing enormous amounts of hate against one another in Myanmar today. These hatreds spread quickly in the age of social media, and reducing the spread of hate speech is a problem that no one has yet been able to solve. In her opening remarks at the Forum on Tuesday, State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi also urged people to respect the countrys different faiths. Myanmar hosts a diversity of ethnic groups with various religious beliefs, she said; a mutual respect among the different races and religions will improve peaceful and stable livelihoods andprevent religious conflict. In addition, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said there is a need to help those affected by the conflicts to rehabilitate and to participate and cooperate in nation building. Myanmar has been trying to achieve peace and end the fighting between government forces and the various ethnic armed groups since its seven decades of civil war began in 1948, shortly after independence, and its the same struggle that has now led Myanmar to its issues in Rakhine State, including the repatriation of some 700,000 Rohingya whove been forced to flee from their homes since August 2017. Religious leaders echoed the state counsellors call for reconciliation, saying they firmly believe that they are the ones to counsel the laypersons. Our society needs peace in this time, when hate speech is easily available. The religious leaders of different faiths have a responsibility to right the people, said Al Haj U Aye Lwin, the chief convener of the Islamic Center of Myanmar and one of the key peace advocates. The current lack of peace, he said, hinders the development of education and proper healthcare. Al Haj U Aye Lwin said the forum aimed to gather perspectives from people with different races, religious beliefs and thinking, and that the views expressed would be shared with those who can enact change at the national level. We also do what we can to reduce the spread of hate speech and disinformation in our respective communities. This is a focus during our peace education trainings, which scrutinize disinformation, he told The Irrawaddy. His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo of the Catholic Church and a patron of RfP-Myanmar said the group vows to continue working to achieve peace. Leaders said RfP-Myanmar will continue holding talks and conducting peace-building awareness trainings, to build respect, understanding and tolerance in the society and to end hate speech. Another forum is planned for November, with an advocacy event highlighting unity and diversity to follow. The problems facing Myanmar are created by humans, so we believe we can find the way to overcome these problems, said U Aye Lwin; that is why the religious leaders participate in such discussions. Religious leaders urged people to learn about their own religious belief and to learn about other faiths as well. It would help protect from bad laypersons who want to use race, religion and faith for the wrong purposes, U Aye Lwin said. While the religious leaders focused their efforts on achieving peace and overcoming the conflict in Rakhine State, the government will also continue its task of accepting the return of Rakhine States displaced, currently sheltered in refugee camps in Bangladesh. In Yangon on Monday and Tuesday, the Implementation Committee on [the late] Kofi Anan Commissions Recommendations on Rakhine State held a workshop reviewing implementation plans. Dr. Win Myat Aye, committee chair and union minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, told reporters at a press conference on Tuesday that the government is trying its best for the returnees, but areas in northern Rakhine State are still facing armed conflict. Yeah, he was drunk. Yeah, maybe he didnt really mean it, U.S. District Judge Matthew Kennelly said in explaining why he was imposing a harsher sentence than he otherwise would. But the fact of the matter is that it illustrates a willingness that has actually shown up in other times in Mr. Soybels life to act on his anger and to do that in a way that causes harm to other people. Analysis Opposition to Myitsone Dam Will Be Outgoing Chinese Ambassadors Chief Legacy Chinese Ambassador Hong Liang attends a Chinese Lunar New Year celebration in Yangons Chinatown on Feb. 5, 2019. / Aung Kyaw htet / The Irrawaddy YANGONIt has been a busy week for the Chinese ambassador to Myanmar. Just a week after Beijing hosted the 2nd Belt and Road (BRI) forum, Hong Liang has been bustling around the government offices in Naypyitaw attending a series of meetings since Monday. So far, he has met with President U Win Myint, Electricity and Energy Minister U Win Khaing and the Parliamentary speakers. He is expected to meet with State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, as well as with other ministers and senior officials in the capital. At the meetings he has held so far, the 50-year-old ambassador has recapped and reaffirmed the agreements reached between China and Myanmar over the past four years, and touted the countries joint achievements. Then he has made his farewells, saying goodbye to everyone he has met, wishing them luck and thanking them for their hospitality. Hong Liang is leaving. Very soon, he will become the 19th Chinese ambassador to bid farewell to Myanmar upon completing his duties. As of Wednesday, the Chinese Embassy in Yangon still hadnt officially announced his departure, but the countrys state-run media recently began referring to him as the outgoing ambassador. Hong officially became the ambassador to Myanmarthe curriculum vitae published on the Chinese Embassys website describes his position as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of China to Myanmarin July 2015, under the previous government. Eight months later he witnessed the Daw Aung San Suu Kyi-led National League for Democracy come to power and form a government after the general election. His nearly four-year tenure under the NLD government has been eventful. He has been involved in BRI-related projects between China and Myanmar such as the signing of the MoU for the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor and Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone, and an agreement to conduct a feasibility study for the Muse-Mandalay railway as well as a framework agreement for the New Yangon City Development. But the general public in Myanmar will mostly remember him as a pushy figure who aggressively lobbied for the resumption of the controversial Chinese-backed Myitsone mega dam project, which has been halted since 2011 over nationwide public criticism due to environmental and other concerns. The negative sentiment toward the Myitsone project came under the spotlight again when Hong claimed after a visit to Kachin State at the end of December that the Kachin people were not opposed to the dams resumption. Later, the prominent Kachin parties objected and said the claim was inaccurate and misleading. Gumgrawng Awng Hkam, the president of the Kachin Democratic Party, and Rev. Hkalam Samson, the president of the Kachin Baptist Convention, both of whom met with the Chinese ambassador at the time, told The Irrawaddy that Hong briefed them in a bossy manner. They felt threatened by the ambassador, who also warned them not to oppose the Myitsone Dam and not to make close friendships with Western diplomats, otherwise they would face serious consequences. Apart from warning people whom they shouldnt make friends with, Hong was also known for telling people where they should and should not go in Myanmar. In early 2016, a few months after his appointment, Hong repeatedly urged then U.S. Ambassador Derek Mitchell not to travel to rebel-infested Kachin State or eastern parts of Shan State along the China-Myanmar border, where Beijing has an influence on the ethnic armed groups, saying the U.S. should respect Chinas interests. Closer to his second home in the former capital, the Chinese ambassador seemed to have a good relationship with Yangon Region Chief Minister U Phyo Min Thein. When the chief minister embarked on his so-called reform of the Yangon public bus system in 2017, Hong helped arrange the purchase of 1,000 new buses from Chinese companies Yutong and Ankai at a total cost of US$56 million (85.4 billion kyats). Yangon Planning and Finance Minister U Myint Thaung told the regional parliament the ambassador guaranteed that the quality of the products and the price of vehicles were reasonable. Furthermore, the following year, when New Yangon Development Companythe sole developer of the controversial New Yangon Citywas launched, the Yangon chief minister said, Special thanks go to the Chinese ambassador and other diplomats for their help in realizing the project. One month later in May, China Communications Construction Company Ltd. (CCCC) signed a framework agreement with the Yangon government for the preparation and submission of a detailed proposal to provide infrastructure work related to the first phase of the development of the project. However, due to the long list of controversies connected with CCCC, New Yangon City is attracting mounting public concern and criticism. The controversies surrounding the firm involve alleged fraud, corruption and bribery in many other countries where it has implemented similar development projects. No picture of Hongs time as ambassador would be complete without an account of his relationship with the ethnic armed groups over which China wields influence, especially in northern and eastern Myanmar along the border with China. Since 2017, China has acted as a peace broker between the military and the Northern Alliancethe Kachin Independence Army, Arakan Army, Taang National Liberation Army and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Armyall of which are members of the Federal Political Negotiation and Consultative Committee. People close to the ethnic armed groups said the ambassadors bossy manner and poor communication skills annoyed the Northern Alliance members during informal meetings. On one occasion, Hongs brash demeanor upset the armed groups representatives, including the Kachin side, leading not only to disagreements over the matter being discussed but also to a postponement of the meeting and the sudden departure of another senior Chinese official. The Chinese Embassy in Yangon didnt reply to The Irrawaddys requests on Tuesday and Wednesday for the ambassadors comment on his accomplishments and failures during his time in Myanmar, or on the identity of his successor. Ethnic affairs and China analyst U Maung Maung Soe said Hong will likely earn praise from Beijing for his efforts on behalf of the Chinese governments policies in Myanmar. But his biggest failure in Myanmar is the way he handled the revival of the Myitsone Dam. His actions only inflamed public resistance, which is not a good sign for China-Myanmar relations. Another analyst, Daw Khin Khin Kyaw Kyee, the head of the China desk at the Institute of Strategy and Policy (ISP)-Myanmar, said the outgoing ambassadors two most visible achievements were his efforts to promote Chinese New Year celebrations in Yangon for two years in a row, which included an official ceremony that saw Chinatown adorned with red paper lanterns, and his frequent donations to social activities. However, his action over the Myitsone Dam severely damaged Chinas image among the public, Daw Khin Khin Kyaw Kyee said. The lesson from Myitsone is that he should have made more of an effort to understand the publics will. He should have listened more to voices on the ground. When it comes to public diplomacy, it should not be one-way communication; it should be a two-way interaction, she said. Editorial Amnesty Sends Positive Signals for Press Freedom, Reconciliation Reuters reporters Ko Wa Lone (left) and Ko Kyaw Soe Oo (right) wave to the media as they walk free from Insein Prison on May 7, 2019. / Reuters The release of the two jailed Reuters reporters is welcome news. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and Western governments are among those who have applauded the announcement. The presidential pardons for Ko Wa Lone and Ko Kyaw Soe Oo, who were convicted of violating the Official Secrets Act and spent more than 500 days in prison, triggered a wave of rare optimism in Myanmars still depressingly repressive society. Amid a generally bleak outlook and a series of joy-killing headlines of late, the news offers a glimmer of hope. We would like to believe that it is not a false hope; that, as many have touted, the sight of the reporters and several activists being freed yesterday is a small step on the long journey to press freedom. We cant give up. Ethnically diverse Myanmar is going through a deeply complex political transition with an elected civilian government now in power. We must acknowledge that the release of the two reporters and a number of members of ethnic armed organizations, along with several civilians accused of being affiliated with them, is a meaningful gesture. The international press has understandably focused on the release of the two Reuters reporters, but the EAO members release sends an important signal for national reconciliation. So far, about 6,520 prisoners have been released in the third round of this years presidential pardons, for which President U Win Myinthimself a former political prisonerdeserves full credit. The journalists release was preceded by much back-and-forth negotiation and difficult dialogue between the ministries, the military and the Presidents Office as demands to free the two reporters increased both inside and outside the country. On Dec. 17, 2017, Army-appointed Vice President U Myint Swe, acting on behalf of Myanmars civilian then-President U Htin Kyaw, signed a document authorizing the arrest of the two Reuters reporters. The government announced that the pair faced charges under the colonial-era Official Secrets Act for obtaining important secret papers. From that moment, the government came under steadily increasing pressure to release them. In Singapore last year, U.S. Vice President Mike Pence pressed State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi multiple times to pardon the two journalists, Reuters quoted White House officials as saying at the time. Upon the release of the two reporters, Lord Darzi, a member of the International Advisory Board on Rakhine State, said, This outcome shows that dialogue works, even in the most difficult of circumstances. I would like to pay tribute to all of those that came together to achieve thisthe government of Myanmar, the world-renowned Reuters news agency, the UN and various governments and international organizations. He added, The power of dialogue must be turned towards securing a lasting peace in Rakhine State and the return of the hundreds of thousands of refugees, whose desperate plight continues. This is essential if Myanmar is to build on todays progress so that all its citizens can live together in dignity in the hope of a better tomorrow. He used a BBC interview to emphasize, There have been many international institutions and governments involved in the dialogueand dialogue is the only way to achieve what weve achieved today. The happy outcome was the result of several backdoor meetings and negotiations. It had appeared unlikely that the two reporters, who received seven-year prison sentences, would be freed anytime soon. At the World Economic Forum in Hanoi, Vietnam last year, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi stood firm on the verdict, thwarting the hopes of some that she would lead calls for the pair to be pardoned. They were jailed because a sentence has been passed on them, because the court has decided they have broken the Official Secrets Act. She also said, I wonder whether very many people have actually read the summary of the judgment, which had nothing to do with freedom of expression at all; it had to do with an Official Secrets Act. She added that the rule of law means that they have every right to appeal the judgment and to point out why the judgment was wrong. However, many dialogues and meetings took place among high-ranking officials and international players. Government leaders didnt want to be seen intervening in court proceedings or the judicial process. Some movement apparently occurred last year after news emerged that a court had rejected the reporters appeal of the lower courts ruling. It had been rumored that the pair would be released as part of an amnesty to mark this years Independence Day on Jan. 4, but it didnt happen. After they lost their appeal to the Supreme Court in Naypyitaw, it was quietly suggested to the two reporters and their family members that they not lodge any further appeal to the Chief Justice. The President and State Counselor received letters from the reporters families at a meeting between media practitioners, government officials, legislators and members of the judiciary in Naypyitaw on April 30. The Independence Day amnesty came and went with no release for the pair. But another chance arrived with Myanmars traditional New Year in April, during which the president customarily pardons a large number of prisoners. Sources said that President U Win Myint was determined to free the reporters, but did not wish to interfere in the court proceedings. The president, a former barrister, promised to bring about democracy and the respect for human rights that our people long for, and to reform the countrys weak judicial system and establish respect for the media. As a former political prisoner he was known to be sympathetic to the media and the role it played in the pro-democracy movement. Ko Wa Lone and Ko Kyaw Soe Oo were included in the presidential amnesty announced on May 7. According to a statement announcing the amnesty, the prisoners were released without condition as part of the Myanmar New Year and to help smooth the peace-building process and national reconciliation. No such gesture was offered during amnesties by previous governments or regimes. Between April 18 and May 7, President U Win Myint pardoned 23,019 prisoners, many of them convicted of violating drug laws, in particular drug convicts who were especially young or old. The two reporters were among them. This moment of optimism is important; we must seize on it and build the momentum needed to further advance the processes of political reform and national reconciliation in Myanmar. The countrys media sector has a proud tradition; many talented, trained and courageous editors, journalists and reporters have sacrificed their lives to tell the countrys stories to the world. Because of them, the world learned and discovered many untold stories of Myanmar, and this must continue. But journalists continue to face reprisals, including long and unfair jail sentences, merely for doing their jobs in what is already a difficult and challenging environment. Despite the glimmer of hope offered by the Reuters reporters release, journalists still face threats and intimidation these days amid an increasing climate of fear in the country. In the run-up to World Press Freedom Day on May 3, the military filed a number of charges against journalists and news media organizations. A senior military officer said the military chose to pursue criminal charges because they carry stiffer penalties than would be available through Press Council mediation. The media freedom, democracy and human rights situations in the country remain dire. Several journalists have been hit with lawsuits recently; one of them is an editor at this publication. The military has sued The Irrawaddy News under Article 66(d) of the Telecommunications Law for its coverage of recent clashes between the Myanmar Army and the Arakan Army ethnic armed group in the ancient town of Mrauk-U in Rakhine State. Additionally, several members of the Peacock Generation Thangyat ensemble were arrested for participating in a performance that criticized the Myanmar military, the group said. As a sign of its commitment to the transition to democracy, Myanmar must improve the freedom of its press. Press freedom is key to further democratization in the country. In working, functioning democracies, journalists must be able to carry out their mission without fear of retaliation. The government must act to ensure the safety of journalists, while helping to create enabling conditions for a free and responsible media, including regulatory and legal reform. So far, however, we have seen discouragingly little along these lines from the government. Putting journalists behind bars for doing their job is a disgrace. With the release of the two reporters, we hope the practice is at an end. Guest Column A Renewable Vision for Myanmar Experts fix a solar panel on Saint Martin Island, in Bangladesh, on Nov. 29, 2004. Guest columnist Lin Tun, Quasar Resources LLC, argues that solar ought to play a vital role in meeting Myanmar's increasing energy demands. / Reuters. Myanmar continues to experience a rapid increase in economic activity as it transitions into an open market system. With that, power demand continues to increasefor modern amenities like air conditioning and power for industrial factories. This is especially true in the economic hubs of Yangon and Mandalay. In the last few weeks it has come to light that there is now an insufficient power supply. As temperatures soar past 40 degrees Celsius, depleted water supplies from the countrys major hydropower dams have resulted in insufficient power generation and rotating blackouts across the country. Myanmar is running out of options for additional power generation. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) solutions are too expensive and the government has so far failed to complete a power purchase agreement. Coal power is opposed by the general public, and rightfully so. Hydropower dams take too long to complete and have too grave an impact on the surrounding population and environment. The country cannot afford to wait for five or 10 more years to remedy this power shortage. It is time for the government to act quickly and decisively. One solution that can have an immediate impact is solar power. It perfectly complements hydropower and gas generation. The very conditions that drive the demand and cause water shortages are the conditions that provide the best environment for solar generation. Other advantages of solar power are that it is a green and renewable resource, requires no water or fuel and emits no pollutants. It can also be built very quickly using local labor, providing much needed employment opportunities. Foreign investors tend to be keen on solar investments, further complementing the need for foreign direct investment (FDI) in Myanmar. Timing is also such that no additional support or incentive programs are required from the government to compete with other fossil or hydropower generation. Myanmar is much luckier than developed countries to have this chance as solar prices continue to decreasewhen the U.S., Canada, and many European and other developed countries began building renewable power facilities, they required heavy subsidies and government incentives. Myanmar does not need this, and can still get all the benefits of green energy. Vision Myanmar produces approximately 3,000 megawatts of hydropower at any one time. With the addition of solar, Myanmar can become one of the greenest countries in Southeast Asia, meeting most of its energy needs from renewable power. This doesnt mean we can ignore other types of power generation, as we still need them for nighttime use, but we can use these resources intelligently. For example, Costa Rica is a darling of renewable energy, with over 98 percent of its energy generated from renewable resources such as hydro, wind, solar and geothermal. Solar power generation equipment can be added to existing power plants to immediately increase the power supply significantly. As much as 1,000 megawatts of renewable energy can be added without impacting the current system, according to studies by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA). The actual limit may be even higher if solar panels are sited strategically near load centers. There is a living example in Longyangxia, China, where facilities to generate 320 megawatts of solar energy was added to a 1,280-megawatt hydropower plant in order to save water. It worked so well, equipment for an additional 530 megawatts of solar was added a few years later. Now, 850 megawatts of solar is generated in conjunction with the 1,280 megawatts of hydropower seamlessly at this site, prolonging the hydropower capabilities late into their peak season. Since it rarely rains outside monsoon season in Myanmar and the country is dry for six to seven months per year, it has to store water for hydropower production during the remaining hot summer months which is when the demand is highest. Summer is the most challenging time of year for power systems, and we are currently experiencing two to three-hour, rotating load shedding (also called blackouts) per day because of it. Those hot, sunny days when power demand is driven up are the times that solar power really shines, perfectly complementing hydropower generation and leveraging the inherent benefits of hydropower generation. FDI Global investment in renewables was over US$300 billion per year in 2017 and 2018. Although most of that investment occurred in developed countries, even developing countries are seeing significant investments in renewablesover $50 billion in 2017. With the need for both power and FDI, it is very conceivable that Myanmar could attract $1 billion to $2 billion per year over the next five to 10 yearsa significant sum for a country in urgent need of a boost to its economy. Why solar? Solar prices have decreased significantly in the last few years. Now on a leveled basis, the per-unit price for solar is between $0.07 and $0.08 cents per kilowatt-hour for projects in Myanmar. Many solar proposals have been submitted to the Ministry of Electricity and Energy (MOEE). Compared to LNG or gas-fired generation, solar is at least 30 percent cheaper, not to mention the fact that there is no risk of price increases in the future, as it does not use any fuel. Compared to heavy fuel oil (HFO, or bunker oil) or diesel, solar is 50 to 60 percent cheaper and similarly not subject to commodity price risks. Cleaner coal and hydropower plants can be built, but they take at least four to five years and eight to 10 years construction time respectively. There are also cost implications, as Japanese-designed clean-coal plants are still very expensive and need very specialized equipment and laborcosting much more than solar, even in the long term. The environmental impact of coal plants are widespread, not just in creating air emissions but also in requiring large quantities of water usage for cooling and steam and ash disposal. They should only be considered as a last resort. Major benefits of solar Fast implementationSolar projects can be built in as little as two to three months (five to 10 megawatts). Even projects with 100-megawatt grid-scales can be built within one year. Rooftop projects, such as 100 to 200 kilowatt systems, can be built within two months. Appropriate technologyThe construction of solar plants does not require specialized foreign expertise. Structures and electrical connections can be built by local workers with some supervision. A few projects have already been built in Myeik, Yangon, and Mandalay. Some power is better than no powerAlthough solar is not perfect as it is not available at night, it can add supply to the overall system during the day, when the system is most stressed. This will help factories and demand from air conditioningthe two major drivers of peak power demand. FDIForeign investment is readily available for the renewable sector. The World Bank, ADB and OPIC are all looking for renewable investment opportunities in Myanmar. Many private companies are also looking to invest in Myanmar if there is a streamlined process. Space savingRooftop solar doesnt take additional land, and energy generated there can be used within the factory or within an industrial zone. Additional generation could also provide excess power to other customers that are not allowed to connect or expand due to bottlenecks on distribution transformers serving industrial zones. Reduced system lossRooftop projects will reduce power-system losses and improve power quality by virtue of having less power flowing from central power plants. Power loss will be reduced by a compound effect, by a factor of square, as loss goes down by four times when current flow is cut by half. Natural coolingRooftop solar can also provide significant rooftop cooling. In Yangon, we have observed as much as a 7-degree Celsius reduction of roof temperatures, as solar provides a second layer of roof and shade. Land useGrid-scale projects can use scrublands not suitable for grazing or planting in central Myanmar near Mandalay, Sagaing and Meikhtila. They will not impact productive farmlands. Ability to prolong the hydropower seasonThese larger grid-scale solar plants can significantly complement the existing hydropower plants by allowing those facilities to save water and generate power for the latter parts of summer. Finally, the grid-connected solar systems discussed in this article are not small, low-quality panels typically seen in rural areas. These systems include sophisticated controls to work with national grids and backup diesel generators with many smart features. Solar panels used in these projects are from top-tier manufactures with 25-year-production warranties and guarantees to still generate at least 80 percent of capacity at the end of 25 years. Even other bulk power systems, such as gas turbines and engines, cannot match the warranties on solar panels. However, there are two downsides of solar power, but these impacts can be minimized by combining solar with other resources on the system while optimizing overall system costs. Solar power cannot be generated at nightPeaking units may be needed to supplement for a few hours at night for evening peaking. However, demand generally decreases as people go to bed. Existing hydropower can also be used for these periods, as more water can be saved by running solar during daytime hours without requiring additional investment. Even if high-fuel-cost units have to operate, they will only be needed for a few hours a day, limiting the cost-impact on overall systems. Solar output is variable in cloud and rain coverAlthough a factor in rainy season, this is not a factor in the cool and hot seasons which are dry and there is little or no cloud cover. Even Yangon has consistently sunny days during the dry season, the exact time when we are experiencing the highest peak of demand. Upper Myanmar has much better solar resources, with few rainy days. In rainy season when solar production is low, there is ample hydropower and demand is lower due to the cooler temperatures. Hydropower generation, with its inherent ability to ramp up, can also be used to provide short-term support for solar, acting much like a shock absorber for the power system. For example, Texas and California have recorded very high wind and solar generation without affecting the gridsometimes with as much as 60 to 70 percent of power supply coming from renewable resources. They do this by active forecasting and smart controls. With over 50 percent of hydropower capacity, Myanmar is very well equipped to handle the variability of solar and wind. Action plan In order to increase the power supply immediately, the government has to implement some or all of the following items through regulatory change. Implement net-metering for distributed generation, such as for rooftop solar. This will allow some customers to install solar to offset demand, freeing up additional supply for other customers. Waive import and commercial taxes on all renewable equipment, such as solar panels, wind generators and small hydropower systems. Subsidies are not required. Tax waivers will further encourage the renewable energy developments that will help solve power supply shortages. There is already an import tax waiver for products made in ASEAN countries and China. This covers most of the solar equipment, but some other items made in U.S. and in European countries are not covered. Implement a Distributed Power Program (DPP) with a buyback scheme for excess power at the price paid by the MOEE, which can then be resold to customers. It will be a program much like the Very Small Power Producer (VSPP) program in Thailand that has very successfully attracted over 3,000 megawatts of additional supply from solar, wind, small hydro, and biomass, from small power plants of less than 10 megawatts Cancel existing solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) that are suspended or in default and call for new solar PPAs, adding at least 500 megawatts per year for the next few years, until the system is saturated. This will provide 30 to 40 percent savings (costing $0.07 to $0.08 compared to over $0.12 per unit) while adding much-needed supply to the system. Finally, drive reform of the MOEE to make it profitable and more accountable by providing an independent governing body with government oversight. Calling for tariff increases without needed reforms will only provide a partial benefit. In summary, the power situation will get worse over time with continued load growth and over-dependence on hydropower. It is imperative that the government makes a smart decision to address these immediate needs. Without these changes, future economic activities will be constrained and people will continue to suffer. If this issue is not fixed quickly, the economic development and political transition of Myanmar may never realize their full potential. Lin Tun is managing director of Quasar Resources LLC, a development company focused on power sector investments in Myanmar. He has 29 years of experience in the energy sector, working for power system utilities and multinational corporations in the US and Myanmar. Views and opinions expressed in this article are the authors own and dont necessarily reflect those of The Irrawaddy. On This Day The Day the Prime Minister of British Burma was Hanged Former Premier U Saw, of Burma, stands on the gallows at Insien prison in Rangoon, on May 8, 1948, as the hangmans assistants manacle his hands behind him. / AP In 2010, the United Nations (UN) formally declared that access to clean water and safe sanitation are fundamental human rights. Aligned to this, the UNs Sustainable Development Goal SDG 6 states that everyone should have access to safe sanitation by 2030. This, in turn, would eliminate open defecation, which billions must still endure. According to the Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply and Sanitation, the official United Nations mechanism tasked with monitoring progress towards SDG 6, 2.3 billion people lack any form of sanitation at all, whilst over two hundred million tonnes of human waste go untreated each year. In the developed world, most if not all people take advanced, interconnected sewerage and wastewater treatment systems for granted, whilst in the developing world, 90 % of sewage ends up in lakes, rivers and oceans. This causes pollution which creates a health hazard for animals, plants and people. Sixty per cent of the human race does not have access to safely managed sanitation, reveals Sun Kim, a Program Officer at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Chair of project committee ISO/PC 318, in charge of developing a standard for community-scale sanitation systems. Moreover, clean water and sanitation are closely connected since uncontrolled sewage frequently contaminates water resources, with often devastating consequences. If we dont have safe sanitation, then clean water will get tainted, observes Kim. Shockingly, 1.8 billion people globally use a source of drinking water contaminated with faeces. Hence, it is not surprising that, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), unclean water and poor sanitation are the worlds second biggest killer of children. So how can we solve this conundrum? Non-sewered solutions Building conventional types of interconnected sewers and waste treatment systems is one answer to the problem, yet these require huge amounts of money and time to build two resources that are not so easily available in the developing world. Is there a way to create non-sewered systems that do all the things these big systems do without the cost and infrastructure? We believe the answer is yes, says Sun Kim. In fact, ISO and the Gates Foundation are achieving this together through the work of ISO/PC 318, whose secretariat is held by the national standards bodies of the United States and Senegal under an ISO twinning arrangement. Villagers line up with plastic canisters to get safe water from a public water well in Nyarusiza, Uganda. Managed sanitation systems without interconnected sewers are known as non-sewered sanitation systems. Following significant support from the Gates Foundation, ISO began by developing International Workshop Agreements (IWAs) on the subject. The Gates Foundation promotes and sponsors research and investment in areas such as education, agriculture, global health and sanitation for the developing world, whilst ISO can help get targeted specifications to market in less than a year using the fast-track process offered by an IWA. Although IWAs often evolve into fully fledged ISO standards, they provide much-needed solutions in the meantime. The ISOfocus (#126) of January/February 2018 already described the work on IWA 24, which specifies general safety and performance requirements for the design and testing of non-sewered sanitation systems. It then served as the basis for ISO 30500, an International Standard for small-scale, safe, self-contained and self-sufficient toilets complete with faecal treatment, that came out towards the end of last year. ISO/PC 318, meanwhile, developed IWA 28 for community-scale systems that can treat the waste from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of people using stand-alone toilets that function off the grid. IWA 28 specifies requirements for the design, performance, testing, certification and operation of independent, self-contained and energy self-sufficient units known as faecal sludge treatment units (FSTUs). ISO/PC 318 is now in the process of converting IWA 28 into an ISO standard, the future ISO 31800. Photo: Gates Archive/Samantha Reinders The Pollution Research Groups Faecal Sludge Lab is a professional research facility housed in the University of KwaZulu-Natals School of Engineering. Framing the technology But before we reach that milestone, lets take a look at the history behind this IWA. After developing the concept of FSTUs, the Gates Foundation approached researchers and industry to give shape to the idea. We worked with TUV SUD to create a private standard for FSTUs, which we then proposed as a seed document for ISO 31800, explains Kim. TUV SUD is a German engineering and technology organization which specializes in performance testing for technology development, verification and certification. ISO/PC 318 developed IWA 28 for areas with sizeable populations such as larger towns and cities. Many urban areas in the developing world might have rudimentary systems to collect and transport large amounts of faecal material but may lack the means to treat the waste, with the result that it is then dumped into the environment. IWA 28 describes the processes, procedures, specifications and test procedures underpinning the equipment that can deal with the faecal sludge safely, reliably, sustainably and efficiently. In essence, IWA 28 provides a framework that dovetails with the circular economy and embodies them both safely and sustainably. To that end, IWA 28 specifies requirements to ensure that there are the means in place to receive, store and then process faecal sludge in the FSTU. The minimum requirements include the need to use the faecal material as a fuel and for energy recovery, together with controls and limits on any air emissions, odour, noise and effluent. There are also requirements for the end products of process, for example when the treated faecal sludge is converted to material that farmers can use as a fertilizer. Photo: Gates Archive/Sam Phelps The Janicki Omni Processor was installed in Dakar, Senegal, in 2015 and now treats the faecal sludge of up to a hundred thousand people. For its part, ISO 31800 is technology agnostic and not specific to any one technology, such as sludge combustion, anaerobic digestion or other forms of biological or thermal system, adds Kim. We even have a research partner developing a technology that uses supercritical water oxidation. It depends on what is suitable for the environmental conditions, as long as the design of FSTU uses faeces as a fuel to kill pathogens, using the calorific value of the faecal sludge, he adds. All-in-one treatment The engineering firm Sedron Technologies from the USA is represented in ISO/PC 318 and developed the first prototype FSTU that evolved in synergy with IWA 28. Known as the Omni Processor, this technology uses sewage sludge as a fuel to both dry the sludge and then complete the process within the FSTU. This unique technology is fast on its way to revolutionizing the waste-processing industry. For example, a pilot plant was installed in Dakar, Senegal, in 2015 and has been successfully operating at that location ever since. The aim now is to create standards to support a variety of technologies, in the hopes of replicating the Dakar success story. IWA 28 specifies very stringent requirements for process control, functionality, environmental impacts and certification. So what is the rationale for this? The idea is to strike a balance between technical requirements to ensure pathogens are neutralized, together with the likelihood of acceptance in as many countries as possible, and supporting local customers such as utilities, governments and businesses, explains Kim. The forthcoming ISO 31800 will also help ensure that the performance of FSTUs is maintained for the long haul. While the standard is written for the initial evaluation of manufactured FSTUs, elements of the performance requirements could be used to monitor the systems long-term performance too, he adds. Photo: Gates Archive/Sam Phelps A technician controls the automated system that operates the Janicki Omni Processor. Its a winner! In many ways, the concept of an FSTU is a win-win, with the means to provide sanitation for areas that lack sewers connected to sewage treatment plants. There are also environmental benefits; as well as eliminating water pollution caused by untreated faecal sludge, FSTUs will also reduce climate change impacts. This is because untreated sewage ferments and then releases methane, which is a very powerful greenhouse gas thirty times more powerful than carbon dioxide. Instead of methane emissions produced from the natural anaerobic digestion of faecal sludge, direct treatment and conversion to carbon dioxide would have less impact on climate change. Also, since the carbon dioxide emissions would primarily be from consumed food, they are part of the ongoing carbon cycle and not a release of carbon previously locked in fossil fuels, explains Kim. Photo: Gates Archive/Sam Phelps Waste is transported to the Omni Processor for treatment. We believe that an FSTU is better from a pathogen perspective, better from an environmental perspective, and when compared with letting the faecal material digest uncontrolled, it is also better from a greenhouse gas perspective, emphasizes Kim. But such solutions must be economically viable too, or manufacturers and potential users will not embrace them. So ISO 31800 will also provide a foundation for economic sustainability by providing the frameworks for testing and certification in addition to specifications for efficient, effective and economic operability. These factors, in turn, will give confidence to the buyers, operators and users of FSTUs. From our perspective, sustainability has many different aspects. But for this standard to be far-reaching, it really must support viable businesses, concludes Kim. And based on the experiences in Dakar, ISO 31800 has a strong potential to succeed. In 2015, Costa Rica hit a remarkable milestone when it generated the countrys electrical power from 100 % renewable energy sources during 285 consecutive days. This was another feather in the cap for our small Central American republic, which already emerged as a leader in ecotourism in the late 1990s. The Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE) has since revealed that the country had 300 days in which renewables met its entire demand for electricity, beating its own previous record. You might be tempted to ask how a country of just 51 000 km2 and five million inhabitants managed such a feat. Helped by its geographical situation and its geological and topographical conditions, Costa Rica focused on its most abundant resource: water. The countrys power mix is dominated by hydropower (75.3 %), but also includes geothermal (12.84 %), wind (10.08 %), biomass (0.77 %) and solar (0.01 %), according to ICE statistics. Today, the various activities have been regrouped in one single policy. Under its National Strategy on Climate Change, Costa Rica is committed to becoming the first carbon-neutral country in the world. This national strategy manifests our countrys pledge to continue setting objectives for the rest of the world to follow, as we did in 1948 when we abolished the military or by being the first tropical country to reverse the deforestation process in the late 1980s. Firm green steps So what is carbon neutrality? Its when the net greenhouse gas emissions a country or organization releases to the environment remain equal to zero. To realize this goal, Costa Rica aims to compensate its carbon emissions with equivalent doses of oxygen so that, when we do eventually meet our target, we can be satisfied that our country has no part in global warming or the deterioration of air quality. This commitment sweeps across all sectors of the economy, including one of our countrys most representative exports coffee. Since 2014, the NAMA Cafe project is helping to transform coffee production into a low-carbon industry. Coffee was chosen because it is one of the most important sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector. Among other things, some coffee mills have already introduced innovative technologies for treating pulp and husks (two waste products of coffee production) to control and avoid their methane emissions. Some say our environmental aspirations have grown out of our fertile soils and inhabit the spirit of every Costa Rican. In fact, the right to a healthy and ecologically balanced environment for all was enshrined in the Constitution by amendment in 1994. Today, our carbon neutrality goal has drawn all economic sectors in a participatory process that includes private companies, government bodies, non-governmental organizations and academia. Standards as strategic allies Indeed, a vital component of Costa Ricas pledge to create a greener society is its dedication to maintaining a competitive market. To meet this goal, it has implemented programmes at both the governmental and organizational level. For example, the Instituto de Normas Tecnicas de Costa Rica (INTECO), our national standards body, released a standard for organizations to follow in order to become carbon neutral. Now in its third edition, INTE B5:2016, Standard for demonstrating carbon neutrality. Requirements, seeks to enhance organizations competitiveness through improved environmental performance based on good emissions management, technological advancements and optimized use of natural resources and raw materials. This standard is committed to the principles of ISO International Standards and includes references to Costa Rican adoptions of many ISO standards on greenhouse gases. The decarbonization of society consists of activities that limit, minimize or correct environmental damage to water, air and soil, as well as problems related to waste, noise and ecosystems. This includes cleaner technologies that reduce environmental risk, pollution and resource wastage, and the use of environmentally friendly goods and services. Such a complex process required a normative framework that could integrate the economy, technology, cost, environmental issues and sustainability into one single field. Framework for sustainability Photo: INTECO Mauricio Cespedes, Executive Director at INTECO. These considerations led to the national adoption of the ISO 14064 series of standards for the quantification, monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gases, which has been instrumental in helping organizations create an inventory of their emissions. Developed by ISOs technical committee ISO/TC 207, Environmental management, it has become an integral part of the countrys carbon neutrality programme. In line with national legislation on environmentally friendly products, Costa Rica also turned to the ISO 14020 suite of standards on environmental labelling and declarations, by the same ISO committee, which INTECO included in its portfolio by national adoption. These have had a tremendous impact on the entire field of green technologies, fostering the development of a nationwide environmental labelling programme. These standards and others by ISO/TC 207 have contributed significantly to our carbon-neutral goal because they are practical, effective and can be used by organizations of all types and sizes at any stage of development. Although they do not directly discuss carbon neutrality, these standards highlight the importance of good environmental management for business competitiveness. They also provide a framework in which environmental actions can be continually improved to reach the countrys goals of sustainable development. For just as Costa Ricas demilitarization many years ago was designed to favour sustainability and development, so the decarbonization of the countrys economy serves a similar purpose. Indeed, there is increasing recognition of how a shift to renewables can act as a catalyst for sustainable development and achieving the United Nations Agenda 2030 and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Currently, the Costa Rican government is making big efforts in this direction. As part of this national resolution, INTECO advocates the use of globally recognized standards as essential tools to help government, industry and consumers attain these sustainable goals. Based on international consensus, they provide a solid benchmark for decision makers to have a positive impact on our environment. Finally, ISO 50001 on energy management systems, which INTECO adopted in 2017, is another essential standard that served as the basis for developing more specific standards on energy efficiency in compliance with our national policy on energy savings. The standards appeal is that it will help a greater number of Costa Rican businesses implement sound energy practices, thus contributing to our overarching goal of carbon neutrality. Photo: Panoramio by David Broad The Cachi hydroelectric plant now has capacity to generate almost 160 MW after expansion works were carried out. Carbon copy Can Costa Ricas model be exported elsewhere? I, for one, believe it can, but in order to do this, countries need to establish domestic policies that foster a culture in which citizens show active commitment towards achieving their environmental goals. In Costa Rica, this formula has resulted in the protection of 25.6 % of the countrys total land mass. Environmental education has also been key to sustainable development and Costa Rica has been one of the acknowledged leaders in efforts to promote environmental learning. As so much of the social and economic support for education in Costa Rica has centred around conservation issues, environmental education has become a point of intersection between the government and the people. In fact, the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), which comes under the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), has been working on this for years, accruing a wealth of experience on biodiversity and marine issues. Costa Rica has specialists in many fields of biology, including biosphere, wetlands and heritage sites. Educational projects funded by public/private alliances have been equally successful in increasing national awareness. However, these projects need to be constantly evolving to have significant long-term impact. Wind turbines stretch along a dusty road near Tierras Morenas, Guanacaste. Challenges ahead While Costa Rica has certainly made impressive environmental progress over the years, positioning itself as a pioneer in nature conservation, there are still many challenges ahead. For example, we need to establish a prevention, control and mitigation system for those climate change impacts that are generated by human activity. Environmental control and quality must engage a wide range of social stakeholders and all our public institutions to be truly effective. To be fair, our efforts to coordinate the environmental agenda have increased with the creation of specialized sub-groups, but these must synchronize better with existing inter-sectorial groups. This includes a more prominent involvement of environmental groups at decision-making levels. Politicians, business leaders, teachers and other people in leadership positions must strengthen their engagement in order to gain a better understanding of the issues at stake, so they are able to participate more fully in the decision-making process. Given the scale of the task, is the plan to transform Costa Ricas energy dependence realistic? Ultimately, the widespread adoption of clean energy is a gradual process, but with research and development in carbon-free technologies and standards to help us, we hope one day to get rid of fossil fuels once and for all. Wednesday, May 8th, 2019 (5:14 pm) - Score 1,732 A new UK Community Interest Company (CIC) called Pure Fibre Housing, which is part of the new i4 Technology Group that also encompasses commercial operator British Fibre Networks, has announced that its deploying 1Gbps Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) broadband to two new build home developments in North Wales. The operator, which is essentially providing full fibre infrastructure to housing associations on a non-profit basis, is working alongside one of North Wales largest Housing Associations (Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd) on this rollout in the Meirionnydd area. The two developments are however extremely small and include Criccieth, which consists of just 10 houses, and Tywyn, which will comprise only 4 houses and 8 flats. Hardly much of a blip on the national connectivity map but everybody has to start somewhere. The new build properties are due to be handed over to tenants, complete with pure fibre connectivity, sometime this month. According to PFH, the UK housing market is currently suffering the effects of misleading fibre claims, with many so-called fibre connected homes still partially connected to copper links. Even small copper connections can drastically reduce internet speeds, with some of the infrastructure dating back to the Victorian era. Naturally they hope to change that. The press release also states that the new infrastructure will be able to offer tenants a choice of ISPs from the broadband market at more competitive prices, although sadly none are named in the press release. Elfed Thomas, Founder of Pure Fibre Housing, said: A good internet connection is becoming as essential to a home as running water. Typically, housing association homes have been neglected in the full-fibre rollout, despite clear evidence that nationwide digital inclusion will have a positive impact on the UK economy, as well as its ability to improve peoples lives. We want to ensure that everyone throughout the UK can take full advantage of what good connectivity can offer; whether that be to digitally upskill, engage in e-learning, access online banking, or just do their weekly shop. Our partnership with Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd has allowed us to get off to a flying start in achieving that. Huw Evans, CCG Development and New Builds Manager, added: We are really proud to be one of the first housing associations in Wales to offer our tenants full fibre options. In this day and age, we depend so much on the internet to assist us in so many aspects of our lives, and providing our tenants, especially in rural areas with excellent connectivity, speed, value for money and reliability is something we are really proud of. It was great to be able to work with a local company, who are based literally down the road from our Bangor office. We look forward to working with them on future developments as we aim to build 550 units across north Wales over the next three years. A quick check via companies house shows that the i4 Technology Group was formerly called the BFN Group Limited, until it changed its name on 5th May to i4. Some readers may recall that Elfed Thomas, founder of PFH, is also the CEO of British Fibre Networks. The i4 name does however hark back to the defunct i3 Group and were thus a little bit surprised they chose it. One of the statistics used in the press release was also quite out-of-date, noting that only 4% of UK homes have pure fibre connectivity (the latest Ofcom data says its available to 7%) and that the current UK average speeds are 46.2Mbps for downloads 6.2Mbps for uploads (todays latest report says 54.2Mbps download and 7.2Mbps upload). Meanwhile BFN has reiterated their ambition to build a new 1Gbps capable open access pure fibre optic broadband network (FTTP/H) for over 35% of new build homes by 2021, although that means theyd have to take FTTP market share (in new builds) away from bigger rivals like Openreach, Virgin Media, Hyperoptic, GTC / OFNL and others. Only time can tell how successful that will be. While watching detectives work the scene, Knox pulled out his phone, trying to find out if he knew Tuesdays shooting victim too. Which porch is it on? Im going to figure out who it was, he said to Terry, who was standing with him. Tableau is continuing to advance its analytics and visualisation software and its move towards subscriptions, rather than perpetual licensing, is claimed to be proving successful. Tableau executive vice-president of corporate development and strategy Jay Peir has been with the company since 2011, and in recent years has been particularly involved with acquisitions and the switch to subscription licensing. The feedback from customers is that the subscription model makes it easier to adopt Tableau, he told iTWire. Senior director of technology and strategy Marc Rueter pointed out that this licensing model meant customers could easily scale as needed. And with Tableau Online (the cloud-hosted version of Tableau), they don't even need to worry about hardware. Peir and Rueter spoke towhile they were in Sydney for the Tableau Data Day Out event earlier this week. Tableau's management team has seen some changes as the company took on executives with strong experience in running growing companies, said Peir. This positions Tableau to grow to a several billion-dollar company in the coming years. "[We're] scaling the company for the next phase of growth," he said. The focus is now on enterprise customers, Peir said, including a major retailer that has more than 100,000 Tableau users. Talking of retail, Woolworths is one of the company's local customers. Others include the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Coopers Brewery, Domain Group, Origin Energy, Toyota, and the University of Western Sydney. Australia was the second international market after the UK that Tableau entered, said Peir, and it remained an important market. The company has 425 employees in Asia Pacific, and Australia is one of the largest markets in the region. Tableau has offices in Sydney and Melbourne, plus employees based in Perth and Canberra. "Australia has been one of the leading markets in terms of adopting subscriptions," he added, and "we've made big investments in customer success" as that is especially important with subscription software. Tableau was "building the world's best data analytics platform," Rueter told iTWire. Tableau Prep Conductor (to schedule, monitor and administer data flows) was recently added, along with the Ask Data natural language processing capability. Ask Data gave everyone the chance to investigate the data they're interested in, said Rueter. Planned improvements include making the feature more conversational, and the provision of a mechanism to tune the natural language recognition to suit specific requirements. Tableau intends to release a cataloging capability later this year, said Peir. This will allow users to access metadata stored on Tableau Server, and it will be possible to use it in conjunction with an enterprise data management system, according to Rueter. Another forthcoming feature is an AI-based capability to put the most relevant items in front of individual users, allowing them to get to significant content more quickly. Visualisations will allow parameters to be based on the data being examined. Rueter gave the example of someone looking at a trend line that shows a glitch. The user will be able to click on that part of the line to see the statistics for that data point. This will enable very complex, yet easily built, analyses, he said. More than 30 new features are being beta tested. Looking further ahead, the company is working on the integration of the probabilistic computation technology from Empirical Systems, which it acquired in 2018. This will run multiple models in an effort to explain an item selected by the user in a visualisation. "We have a lot of other programs underway," said Rueter. Organisations in Australia achieve more than double what they expect when they invest in data management, but still want more, the enterprise data management company Veritas says, based on a study that was carried out across 15 countries. Market research firm Vanson Bourne interviewed 1500 decision-makers and data managers in the US, the UK, Germany, France, Switzerland, the UAE, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, China, Japan and South Korea in October and November to collect data for the study. The Value of Data study found that as far as Australia was concerned, only 17% achieved the return on investment they expected. Not a single one of the Australian participants in the study said the RoI exceeded what they had expected. But the businesses in Australia were frank about what was preventing them from earning more from their investment. Factors cited were a lack of the right technology to support data management (39%), lack of funds (39%) and inadequate employee engagement or training (57%), while 42% blamed a lack of support from senior management. Among organisations investing in looking after their data, 77% said they were already experiencing increased data compliance and reduced data security risks, while 61% were seeing reduced costs. Nearly three-quarters (70%) were driving new revenue streams or market opportunities as a result of investing in data management Mismanaging data is costing Australian businesses about $2.5 million a year," said Veritas Australia and New Zealand managing director Howard Fyffe. "This can lead to security vulnerabilities, lost revenues and missed opportunities to provide a better customer experience. "In Australia, technological or people-related challenges have hindered the ability of organisations to realise the full value of their data." Fyffe recommended that Australian organisations equip themselves with the ability to access, protect and derive insights from their data. "By promoting a cultural shift in the way data is managed, which includes buy-in from leadership as well as tools, processes and training, companies can empower employees with full visibility and control of data to make more informed decisions," he added. Ed Husic: "We know there is massive demand for workplace digital skills its estimated we need 100,000 extra digitally enabled workers between now and 2023." A Labor Government, if elected, will boost the digital skills of Australians through the injection of $25 million to drive skills development in regional Australia. Labor Shadow Minister for Human Services and the Digital Economy Ed Husic and Shadow Minister for Regional Communications Stephen Jones said in a joint statement on Tuesday that this would primarily be through creating regional Digital Skills Hubs that would potentially assist up to 500,000 Australians. The initiative will be announced in Kiama later on Tuesday, with Husic and Jones to be accompanied by the party's candidate for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips. "Regional Australia lags behind the rest of the country on digital inclusion," Jones said. "Its not just about having a decent broadband connection - its also about regional skills. We want to transform regional Australians from simply being users of digital technology to the designers of it, applying these skills across a range of activities from agtech to smart city design. The statement said Labor also planned to consult industry on a plan to extend to major government IT suppliers the ratio of one employee in 10 being an apprentice. The aim is to encourage IT providers to government to open up job pathways and play their part in reducing skills shortages. We know there is massive demand for workplace digital skills its estimated we need 100,000 extra digitally enabled workers between now and 2023," Husic said. On top of this, digital skills are crucial in everything from engaging with the government or your bank, getting your next job or starting your own business. We need to make sure all Australians have the digital skills they need at work, home or the community. Through the power of government procurement, we want to work with industry to create training opportunities for Australians, regardless of where they live. Labor wants to use this program to work with industry to establish best practice and key skills sets to drive ICT training nationally. The Hubs will target groups who have been generally excluded from gaining digital skills such as older Australians, Indigenous Australians, people living with a disability, newly arrived migrants, people with English as an additional language and the long-term unemployed. Regarding the apprenticeship initiative, the statement said only companies involved in government contracts over $5 million and running longer than a year would have to take on apprentices in the ratio mentioned. This would be in addition to other "skill formation leadership" policies such as instituting infrastructure training and apprenticeship plans for all major projects. The UK has left the door open for a backflip on its reported decision to give Chinese telecommunications vendor Huawei technologies a limited role in the rollout of 5G networks, with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt saying that London would never take a decision that would compromise its ability to share intelligence with its Five Eyes colleagues. Hunt made the remarks at a joint media conference with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in London on Wednesday. The British minister said his country had not yet finalised a decision on Huawei on a government basis and was considering the evidence "very carefully". On 24 April, it was reported that British Prime Minister Theresa May had agreed to let Huawei supply equipment for the non-core parts of 5G networks in Britain. Secretary of State Pompeo and British Foreign Secretary Hunt holdjoint news conference https://t.co/du5y6STXM5 Reuters Top News (@Reuters) May 8, 2019 That information was leaked from a meeting of the UK National Security Council, an investigation was launched and it ended with theof Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson. Added Hunt: "But we would never take a decision that would compromises our ability to share intelligence with our Five Eyes colleagues." The only remark that Pompeo made that was somewhat specific to Huawei was that the US was confident that the UK would never take any action that would break the special relationship between the two nations. Five Eyes refers to the intelligence alliance of the US, the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Pompeo and other American officials have been threatening other countries that the US would cut off the flow of intelligence to them if they allowed Huawei to participate in the 5G rollouts. On 30 April, the US said it saw no distinction between the core of a 5G network and its radio access network, and would reconsider sharing information with any ally that used equipment made by Huawei, a statement generally interpreted as a warning to the UK following May's decision. Robert Strayer, deputy assistant secretary for cyber, international communications and information policy at the State Department, said it was the US position that using gear from Huawei "or any other untrustworthy vendor" in any part of a 5G network was a risk. In March, it was reported that the American envoy to Germany, Richard Grenell, had written to German Economy Minister Peter Altmeier, saying that if any Chinese vendors were allowed to supply equipment for the 5G networks in Germany, then the US would cut down on its intelligence co-operation with Berlin. Only Australia and New Zealand have fallen in line with Washington's dictates, but Wellington has indicated that the initial refusal for telco Spark to use Huawei gear is not the end of the matter. That stance was reiterated by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern during a one-day China visit in April. Huawei sued the US on 7 March, seeking to be reinstated as a telco supplier in the country. Claims about lack of separation between the core and the RAN of a 5G network were shown to be incorrect last November when, as iTWire reported, a 5G trial in Auckland conducted jointly by Huawei and New Zealand telco Spark used a Huawei 5G NR (New Radio on both the C-band and mmWave) and a 4G Radio Access Network, both of which were deployed by using dedicated hardware connected to the Cisco Evolved Packet Core, with each component isolated. Similar claims have been made by the director of the Australian Signals Directorate, Mike Burgess, and Nigel Phair, director of UNSW Canberra Cyber, as pointed out by Dr Mark Gregory, a network expert from RMIT University. A banking trojan named Retefe that targeted Austria, Sweden and Switzerland, routing online banking traffic through a proxy instead of the usual Web injects that other trojans use, has made a comeback, with more regular attacks on Swiss and German victims in April, the security firm Proofpoint claims. In a blog post,the company said the trojan now had a version which worked on Windows and one that could attack macOS. When Retefe first appeared it was delivered using a zipped JavaScript file or within Microsoft Word documents. Researcher Bryan Campbell wrote that the new Retefe had several changes: It uses stunnel instead of TOR to secure its proxy redirection and command and control communications; It uses Smoke Loader rather than sLoad as an intermediate loader; and It abuses a shareware application known as Convert PDF to Word Plus 1.0; this is a Python script that has been packaged as an executable using PyInstaller and packed into an archive using the UPX packing engine. Campbell said the shareware application had been found in a public malware repository in March. "It originates from https://lettercreate.com/unipdf/convert-pdf-to-word-plus[.]exe and uses a certificate issued by DigiCert," he added. In the case of the version targeting macOS users, the people behind Retefe were using developer-signed versions of fake Adobe Installers in order to deliver the payload. Said Campbell: "Retefe is unusual in its use of proxies to redirect victims to fake bank pages for credential theft instead of employing Web injects for man-in-the-browser attacks like most banking trojans. "Developers appear to have updated key features of the trojan and are employing new distribution mechanisms including fake apps and switching to Smoke Loader as its intermediate downloader after a fairly lengthy absence from the landscape." He said Retefe, in particular, was noted for changing its proxy configuration, having previously used Profixifier and, in 2019, moving to stunnel. "As with many types of malware, developers continue to innovate, identifying new, more effective ways to infect victims and steal personal information to better monetise their attacks." Researchers at Slovakian security outfit ESET say they have found a sophisticated backdoor used by the well-known group Turla, which has also been called Snake. ESET's Matthieu Faou said in a blog post that the backdoor, which had been given the name LightNeuron, had been aimed at one target since 2014 - Microsoft Exchange mail servers. Faou said that code artefacts in the Windows version had led to the belief that a UNIX version of LightNeuron also existed. There were references to mail transport agents such as Sendmail and Postfix within the code which led to this belief; Sendmail and Postfix are popular mail transport agents on UNIX platforms, including Linux. "These Unix artefacts in the Windows malware could be explained by the possible sharing of code between Windows and Unix implementations," Faou said. "Hence, the presence of these strings suggests LightNeuron exists for Linux. That would not be surprising, given that many organisations have Linux mail servers." Three different victims had been identified - an unknown organisation in Brazil, the ministry of foreign affairs in an Eastern European country and a regional diplomatic organisation in the Middle East. The LightNeuron Transport Agent. Graphic courtesy ESET Observations that led ESET to conclude that Turla was probably behind LightNeuron were: On one compromised Exchange server: a PowerShell script containing malware previously attributed to Turla was dropped 44 minutes before a PowerShell script used to install LightNeuron, and both scripts were located in C:\windows\system32. The script used to install LightNeuron has a filename msinp.ps1 that looks like typical filenames used by Turla. On another compromised server, IntelliAdmin a remote administration tool, packed with a packer used only by Turla was dropped by LightNeuron. For each LightNeuron attack, there were several other instances of Turla malware on the same network. The email address used by the attackers was registered at GMX and was impersonating an employee of the targeted organisation. The same provider was used for the Outlook backdoor and for an undocumented PowerShell backdoor named PowerStallion by ESET. ESET said LightNeuron was the first malware specifically targeting Microsoft Exchange mail servers. "It uses a persistence technique never before seen: a Transport Agent. In the mail server architecture, it operates at the same level of trust as security products such as spam filters," Faou said. The malware was able to use the transport agent to read and modify every email passing through the server, compose and send emails, and block any email. ESET said LightNeuron used steganography to hide its commands inside a PDF document or a JPG image. "Over the past years, we have published numerous blog posts and white papers detailing the activities of the Turla group, including man-in-the-middle attacks against adobe.com or sophisticated userland malware," Faou said. "However, for now it seems that LightNeuron has taken up the mantle of the most advanced known malware in Turlas arsenal. "By leveraging a previously unseen persistence mechanism, a Microsoft Exchange Transport Agent, LightNeuron allows its operators to stay under the radar for months or years. It allows them to exfiltrate sensitive documents and control other local machines via a C&C mechanism that is very hard to detect and block." The company has a detailed white paper on LightNeuron here which can be downloaded free. Jake Williams: "Don't label Israel's actions as 'not our problem' or 'something happening a world away'. Neither is true." Israel has crossed the Rubicon with its attack on alleged cyber attackers belonging to the Palestinian group Hamas, a well-known information security professional says, adding that this action must be condemned by the international community else it risks becoming a new norm of warfare. Former NSA hacker Jake Williams was referring to the attack that Israel carried out on Sunday on a building it claimed housed Hamas cyber attackers. CLEARED FOR RELEASE: We thwarted an attempted Hamas cyber offensive against Israeli targets. Following our successful cyber defensive operation, we targeted a building where the Hamas cyber operatives work. HamasCyberHQ.exe has been removed. pic.twitter.com/AhgKjiOqS7 Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) May 5, 2019 "Israel destroys a Hamas hacking facility (non-combatants) in response to a non-specific cyber attack that was successfully repelled," Williams said. "The only official comment from the administration is to deny new military deployments are related (an obvious lie)." iTWire contacted the Israel Defence Force on Monday morning to ask for any statement it had issued about the strike as there was no public statement on its website. The IDF has not yet replied. In a tweet, the IDF said: "We thwarted an attempted Hamas cyber offensive against Israeli targets. Following our successful cyber defensive operation, we targeted a building where the Hamas cyber operatives work." The attack on this building was part of other offensive operations that took place after Hamas was alleged to have fired rockets into Israel over the weekend. This is apparently real, it looks like Israel is boasting they blew up some people involved in a cyberattack. pic.twitter.com/lRiUPLQsXy Kevin Beaumont ?? (@GossiTheDog) May 5, 2019 Williams, a former member of the NSA's elite Tailored Access Operations Unit who now runs his own firm, Rendition Infosec, said: "Don't label Israel's actions as 'not our problem' or 'something happening a world away'. Neither is true." He added: "It's not just the military at risk either. The US already linked hackers and contract support staff (developers, QA, systems admins) as legally equally culpable in nation state hacking. US contractors working in tertiary roles are equally at risk if we let this stand." In the past, Williams has spoken out against the US policy of naming individuals as being responsible for alleged nation-state cyber attacks on American targets. To be clear, I'm okay with anyone involved in the defense industrial complex being targeted. I understand the history and the law around this. But just because something is legal, that doesn't make it right. Pandora's Box has been opened. We may not like where this goes. 2/2 Jake Williams (@MalwareJake) May 6, 2019 In another thread, Williams, who regularly trains people in cyber security, put forward a theoretical situation, asking "Suppose we're in an active shooting conflict (like Israel and Hamas were). I'm teaching a group of students who happen to be Hamas hackers and support). Regardless of any sovereign defense argument, an airstrike on cyber targets is murder. Lethal force against a cyber actor is killing someone unarmed. Even if those actors may be able to cause a cyber effect, they cannot individually direct lethal force to defend themselves. Brandon McCrillis (@13M4C) May 6, 2019 "Suppose we're in a commercial training facility in a high rise. We're one group on one floor (civilians elsewhere). Although there's no immediate danger from them right now, they performed an unspecified cyber attack (that was repelled) before class starts. "After class is over today, they might go back to hacking Israel again. We obviously don't know their targets or their capabilities. What do you do here? Is it justified to blow up the building in retaliation for earlier attack? "What if the motive is to prevent some unspecified future threat? Does the motive matter? They are, after all combatants on the cyber battlefield. But they aren't actively threatening anyone. How do you handle this? How should it be handled? Is bombing the building okay? "After answering, read that again and replace Hamas and Israel with US and ISIS respectively. Does that change your answer at all? Then consider this is not a hypothetical. Does that change the answer?" A witness told police there was an argument between people in the white Rolls-Royce and another car in the 300 block of West Erie Street around 3:15 a.m. Shots were fired and the Rolls-Royce sped off, crashing on the ramp, police said. Microsoft's Azure cloud services have been hit by a major outage on Friday morning AEDT, with DNS resolution issues apparently responsible for the services being unavailable. The outage comes ahead of the company's Build conference for developers which is scheduled for next week and at which it normally announces new features in its products. Microsoft used its Azure Support Twitter account to send this message a short time ago: "Engineers have identified the underlying root cause as DNS resolution issues affecting network connectivity with impact to Compute, Storage, AAD, and Database services. "Mitigation steps are being applied, and we are starting to see signs of recovery." Engineers have identified the underlying root cause as DNS resolution issues affecting network connectivity with impact to Compute, Storage, AAD, and Database services. Mitigation steps are being applied, and we are starting to see signs of recovery. https://t.co/Dw19fIoS5H Azure Support (@AzureSupport) May 2, 2019 Earlier, prominent British security researcher Kevin Beaumont tweeted that Azure SQL databases and Sharepoint Online in Office 365 had collapsed. Additionally, Azure and the Office support request systems were also down., he said. Azure and Office support request systems are down. pic.twitter.com/JgCOinow0y Kevin Beaumont ?? (@GossiTheDog) May 2, 2019 A veritable litany of complaints was broadcast on Twitter earlier as Azure users found the service had gone missing. One said: "North Europe SQL down across the board too, Again no status update on Azure status, what a joke" Another stated: "AWS, Level3, etc. is all down! The end of the world as we know it has begun!" Office 365's https://t.co/60MCTIoyGQ portal showed no issues under Service health about 10 minutes ago. Now Service health itself is dead lol pic.twitter.com/uA4QQdSs8c bendodge (@bendodge) May 2, 2019 Microsoft's cloud services have experienced regular collapses over the last few months. In January, Microsoft 365 services went on the blink, with affected users unable to authenticate to, and access, them. A week before that, Office 365 mail was down in Europe for more than a day. And in November 2018, Microsoft had issues with the Office 365 service, with customers complaining they were unable to sign in to their accounts. A number of cloud services offered by the Redmond software giant use the MFA offered by Azure Active Directory to authenticate by default. Two days before that, users of the company's Exchange Online service were unable to access their email for more than 12 hours. And a week prior, Microsoft cloud customers using multi-factor authentication found themselves locked out of their accounts. Additionally, a lightning strike near one of Microsoft's South Central US data centres in September 2018 led to a massive outage in regions around the globe. The Azure service was hit by a fire suppression incident in 2017. It also suffered prolonged downtime in 2013. Update: Microsoft tweeted around noon on Friday AEDT that the DNS issue had been resolved and said it would post details later. STORY SPONSORED BY MITRAIS. In the early 2000s, outsourcing became a significant buzzword in software development globally. Every week we seemed to read that one significant player, or another had decided to experiment with the idea of adopting a remote development team in some (often far-flung) location. Initially the idea was a purely economic one. India had been ramping up for just this eventuality for years, and aggressively grooming its burgeoning army of IT graduates to become the development teams for global organisations everywhere. Indias combination of a steadily upgraded education system and infrastructure to match, coupled with its cost of living advantages seemed to promise a silver bullet for improving productivity whist at the same time containing costs. And it worked maybe a bit too well. Over time, two major issues with this panacea started to become apparent. The first was probably not entirely Indian vendors fault. In their excitement to adopt outsourcing as a concept, many firms elected to entirely disband their onshore development teams and replace them completely to maximise the short-term savings. Although maybe not evident initially, the inevitable consequence over time was a serious dilution of onshore technical skills within these organisations, and in some cases a loss of control of Intellectual Property. There are plenty of examples where ANZ companies took years to recover and rebuild from this type of dilution. The other was a classic case of being a victim of your own success. With rapidly rising demand for Indian developers globally, it was only a matter of time before those developers started to get a sense of their own financial worth. This led to wide-spread demands for increased salaries and improved (and more expensive) employment benefits, and many relocating to other countries to pursue better conditions. Competition between providers for the best developers within India built steadily, and the price advantage that had been a cornerstone of the strategy was gradually eroded. Now there is a two-speed software development vendor market in India larger, well-established and well-funded providers offer technical skill and prowess but are no longer the budget solutions that they once were. On the other side, there are plenty of bargain basement offerings from India, but also a lot of horror stories from ANZ clients who have been burnt with them (not restricted to India of course). Fortunately for Australian and New Zealand organisations, there is another alternative. As one of Australias closest neighbours, Indonesia is home to an extraordinary number of highly qualified software engineers ready to become members of your team. While not as high-profile as India, Indonesia offers many advantages for those looking to augment their development team with near-shore developers. According to the prestigious AT Kearney Global Services Location Index in 2017, Indonesia rates as 4th in the world in terms of financial attractiveness, people skills and availability, and business environment above many others like the Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand. The Indonesian island of Bali is home base for the Development HQ of Mitrais. Providing software developers to Australasian partners since 2000, Mitrais has an enviable reputation in the region. In 2014, Forrester Research rated Mitrais as one of Indonesias leading offshore service providers, and we have delivered well over 500 projects. Balis time-zone (the same as Perths) takes away the pain that can be a part of running a distributed team. With at least 5 hours overlap with Australia every business day, your Mitrais team works when you do. With a unique combination of Australian and Indonesian management, Mitrais offers close cultural alignment with Australasian companies, and the cost of living advantages of Indonesia. Mitrais has more than 400 software engineers and other technical staff, making us big enough to service large ASX-listed name brand partners, but small enough to closely engage right down to SMEs and start-ups. Our recognised commitment to our clients has resulted in a very high degree of repeat business 73% of our client relationships are longer than 3 years, with some stretching back much longer. If you are thinking about engaging with a real long-term partner rather than just a quick body shop arrangement, it pays to consider Mitrais in Indonesia as a real alternative to other regions you may be considering. Visit our site www.mitrais.com to review our extensive offering and to book a personalised introduction and conference call so we can present our business model personally. At that time we can send you a comprehensive proposal. About Mitrais Mitrais is a world-class software development company with offices in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Singapore. We offer exceptional value, competitively priced, near shore, near time software development. In business since 1991 we have written software or installed systems for over 500 clients. Our clients are referenceable with over 70% of engagements lasting more than 3 years, some much longer. Our proprietary competency system guarantees the quality of our staff. A day before it was scheduled to announce its decision on the proposed merger between TPG Telecom and Vodafone Hutchison Australia, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has been forced to announce it is opposed o the merger. In a short initial statement, the ACCC said on Wednesday: "This information was inadvertently published online on our mergers register briefly this [Wednesday] afternoon." TPG shares fell by about 14% to $6.07 by 4.42pm AEDT. Later, expanding on the reasons for opposing the deal, the competition watchdog said it considered that the proposed merger would reduce competition and contestability in the fixed broadband sector. The watchdog said, in particular, a deal was likely to "substantially lessen competition in the supply of mobile services because the proposed merger would preclude TPG entering as the fourth mobile network operator in Australia". TPGin January that it was cancelling plans for a mobile network due toon the use of equipment from Chinese vendor Huawei Technologies. ACCC chair Rod Sims said: TPG is the best prospect Australia has for a new mobile network operator to enter the market, and this is likely the last chance we have for stronger competition in the supply of mobile services. Wherever possible, market structures should be settled by the competitive process, not by a merger which results in a market structure that would be subject to little challenge in the future. This is particularly the case in concentrated sectors, such as mobile services in Australia. TPG has a proven track record of disrupting the telecommunications sector and establishing itself as a successful competitor to the benefit of consumers. TPG is likely to be a vigorous and innovative supplier of mobile services in Australia, offering cheaper mobile plans with large data allowances, and competing strongly against incumbents Telstra, Optus and Vodafone." The watchdog said Australia already had a very concentrated mobile services market, with Telstra, Optus and Vodafone, having over 87% share. Similarly, the fixed broadband market was concentrated, with Telstra, TPG and Optus having approximately 85% share. Sims said TPG had the capability and commercial incentive to resolve the technical and commercial challenges it was facing, as it already had in other markets. "TPG already has mobile spectrum, an extensive fibre transmission network which is essential for a mobile network, a large customer base and well-established telecommunications brands, he said. TPG is also facing reducing margins in fixed home broadband due to the NBN rollout. Further, there is the growing take-up of mobile broadband services in place of fixed home broadband services which is expected to increase especially after the rollout of 5G technology. After thorough examination, we have concluded that, if this proposed merger does not proceed, there is a real chance TPG will roll out a mobile network. Well-known telecommunications analyst Paul Budde told iTWire that he was "obviously surprised". On Monday he had said he expected both companies to make sufficient concessions to ensure that the competition watchdog would give the green light for the deal. "This will be a significant setback for both companies as they needed to gather strength in an increasingly more competitive market," Budde, Australia's best-known commentator on telecommunications issues said. "Margins are shrinking and share prices keep going south. In order to survive and thrive costs need to come down and an important strategy for this is a merger. This increases their combined market power and provides a good platform for cost savings." He said it looked like the companies had been unwilling to provide the concessions or develop a business model that would see TPG, in one way or another, remain a price competitor in the market. "It will be interesting to see what the ACCC's argument [for opposing the deal] is and the responses from the companies," he added. "Now, without a good mobile plan going forward, TPG seems to be the major loser of this." A spokesman for the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network, which bills itself as Australia's peak body for consumer representation in communications, told iTWire in response to a query that it would not be commenting on the ACCC decision. TPG and Vodafone announced the proposed merger on 30 August last year, with the scrip deal creating a company with an enterprise value of about $15 billion. Australia's biggest telecommunications provider Telstra says it has no comment on the decision by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to oppose the proposed merger of TPG Telecom and Vodafone Hutchison Australia. Asked for comment on the ACCC decision, a Telstra spokesperson told iTWire: "We will politely decline to comment on this decision." The ACCC said on Wednesday that it would be opposing the proposed merger. The announcement, a day before it was scheduled to be made, was due the inadvertent publication of the information on the ACCC mergers register online briefly. The watchdog is conducting an investigation to find out how this occurred, but indications are that it was caused by a technical glitch. Later on Wednesday evening, Vodafone and TPG said they would be contesting the ACCC's decision in the Federal Court. Asked for its reaction, the second biggest telco, Singtel Optus, was a little more forthcoming than Telstra, though it did not mention the word "merger" in its response. Optus vice-president, Regulatory and Public Affairs. Andrew Sheridan, said: "Optus supports competition in the mobile market. We believe consumers want coverage and value. "That is why Optus will continue to invest in our premium national network, to deliver exceptional value, must-have content and great service for customers. We will also continue to prioritise our 5G leadership." As usual, it was left to a much smaller player, this time from the ISP sector, to offer detailed comment. Damian Ivereigh, chief executive of Launceston-based ISP Launtel, and a regular commentator in these columns, said after reading the ACCC's media release, he could understand the reasoning it had employed in coming to this decision. "The argument put forward by the proponents is that a merger allows two smaller players to have a chance of taking on the bigger ones. The one put forward by the ACCC is that the merger itself lessens competition because those two smaller players should be forced to compete in their own right," he said. "While TPG has said it has pulled out of mobile (due to the Huawei 5G ban), it is unclear if another motivation was they wanted to demonstrate to the ACCC that they were not interested in building out their own mobile network any longer." Ivereigh said the ACCC had probably decided that from the competition point of view, there was likely to be little gained either way, but had decided that the risks to competition if it was allowed to go through were too great for that little gain. "This is a very consolidated, non-competitive market already (both in the NBN and the mobile infrastructure markets) and the ACCC has little interest in making things worse," he said. "For the two companies involved, the big advantage of a merger is the ability to cross-subsidise between mobile and NBN. Margins are still falling in the NBN space and the two biggest companies are probably only surviving by bundling the low-margin NBN services with the higher margin mobiles. You will note that Vocus has all but pulled out of the NBN retail market because it doesn't own a mobile network." Ivereigh said from the competition point of view, the ability to cross-subsidise made it harder for other companies, which did not own a mobile network, to compete in the NBN space. "I will watch with interest to see if TPG restart their mobile network build (unlikely) and/or start raising their NBN prices," he said. "The other question is will Vodafone start exiting the NBN space? The only advantage to Vodafone of staying in the NBN space is that ability to bundle, but it comes at the cost of making little or no money on those NBN services." iTWire also approached Aussie Broadband for its reaction but the company said it had no comment to offer. Vodafone Hutchison Australia and TPG Telecom have said they intend to challenge the ACCC's turning down of their merger proposal in the Federal Court. The ACCC sprang a surprise on Wednesday when it announced, a day ahead of the scheduled date for its final decision, that it would be opposing the merger between the two companies. VHA chief executive Inaki Berroeta said the company remained firmly committed to the merger. VHA respects the ACCC process, but we believe the merger with TPG will bring very real benefits to consumers. We have therefore decided that VHA should, together with TPG, pursue approval of the merger through the Federal Court," he said in a statement on Wednesday. TPG executive chairman David Teoh said: While we respect the ACCCs process, its decision has significant implications for Australian consumers, and in our view, must be challenged. TPG remains of the firm belief that the proposed merger will result in greatly enhanced competitive dynamics in the Australian telecommunications industry, as well as superior choice and outcomes for consumers. A combination of our companies would create a new, vigorous and vibrant competitive force. Left unchallenged, this decision will only serve to further entrench the enormous power of Telstra and Optus. With the advent of 5G next generation mobile technology, Australian consumers more than ever need a strong challenger. Berroeta said the proposed merger was about combining two complementary businesses, which had very little overlap and could deliver more for Australian consumers together than they could alone. VHA is an established mobile business with less than one per cent of the fixed broadband market, while TPG is the second largest fixed broadband player with no mobile network, he said. Australias mobile market has delivered some of the best outcomes for consumers of any country in the OECD. The merger provides a unique opportunity for VHA and TPG to combine their complementary assets. "The merger would create an entity that can compete more aggressively in this highly competitive market than either VHA or TPG could on their own. It is disappointing that the ACCC does not see it this way. While we continue to pursue the merger through the court, it remains business as usual for VHA. We will continue to challenge the market by delivering the best value products and services we can to our customers. The statement said the merger agreement with TPG had been extended to 31 August 2020 to allow sufficient time for the Federal Court to deliver its decision and for the merger process to be completed. In one email, Madigan said, Toeppen called a customer a pushy little Chinese international student with a fragile ego" who "should go back to your country and stay there, according to the lawsuit. In another email he wrote, Bone up on your English a little so you don't have more problems like this in my country the suit stated. Register with JOC.com and receive 5 free pieces of content for the first thirty days. After thirty days, you will receive 3 pieces of content and after sixty days you will receive 1 piece of content. To receive full access, Subscribe Today . You can also subscribe to our daily newsletter. Register Another issue is whether prosecutors will seek to introduce evidence of prior contact between the parents and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. The agency took custody of AJ from Cunningham after she gave birth to the boy with opiates in his system. She underwent drug abuse treatment and got her son back more than a year later. There were allegations of neglect against her twice more, including police reports of bruising on AJ and squalid living conditions, but DCFS investigated and ruled the claims were unfounded. The security guard who detained the second armed suspect was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. To finish it off, Justin drizzled a little melted chocolate over the top of the pie. Pam Lippitt of Greensboro won second place and $125 with Grandma Fairfields Strawberry Pie. The recipe is named after the grandmother of a good friend from high school. We went to Florida for spring break one time, Lippitt said. She made that pie for us every night when we came in from the beach. We must have eaten three or four of those pies that week. This fairly traditional way features a standard baked crust. Like the first-place pie, it includes cream cheese in the filling, but this time it is flavored with a bit of orange juice and zest. The addition of orange is one reason she likes the pie, Lippitt said. The filling is topped with a glaze chock-full of fresh, lightly cooked, crushed strawberries. More whole strawberries are used for a garnish. Though Lippitts recipe says that the pie may be served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, it was plenty tasty served plain. Wingstop has opened its first Winston-Salem store at 340 Summit Square Blvd. Wingstop, founded in Garland, Texas, is a chain of more than 1,100 chicken-wing restaurants across the United States as well as Mexico, United Kingdom, Malaysia, Colombia, Panama, Singapore, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The company has both company-owned and franchise stores, and the Winston-Salem location is one of the Atticus Franchise Group stores. Wingstop has two locations in Greensboro, and one just opened in High Point, making the Winston-Salem store its fourth in the Triad. Another Triad location will be coming in six months or so, said district manager Laura Williams. The Winston-Salem store is managed by James Miller. The focus at Wingstop is really on the wings, he said. But we have just enough other things to round out the menu. The store has bone-in and boneless wings, as well as chicken tenders. The rest of the menu features fries, corn, veggie sticks, rolls, desserts and sodas. RURAL HALL Two men were arrested on gambling charges following an investigation by the states Alcohol Law and Enforcement branch of the SBI into a business. Davinder Kaur, 44, and Gurtej Singh, 44, both of Rural Hall, were charged with felony operating five or more video game machines and one misdemeanor charge each of operating a video game machine, gambling and conduct on a license premises, said Erin Bean, spokeswoman for the ALE. The charges are in connection to a raid conducted by the ALE at the Pik and Go 3 at 6940 Broad St. in Rural Hall. Undercover agents went to the business last Friday after getting several complaints from people in the community, the ALE said. Agents found several illegal slot machines in a back room. On Monday, agents seized six machines and more than $20,000 from the store, the ALE said. Bean said Singh and Kaur are the only two people expected to be charged in the investigation. Because the business has ABC and N.C. Education Lottery permits, administrative violation reports are submitted to those commissions, ALE said. Those commissions will decide on the penalty, which could be a fine, suspension or revocation of permits for the business, Bean said. It could take several months before a decision is reached. snewell@wsjournal.com 336-727-4068 @s_k_newell on Twitter In addition, shipping CBD to Georgia was a violation of federal interstate commerce laws, said Sam Kamin, a law professor at the University of Denver. But it was already widely available in Georgia and across the nation; the feds just didnt take action against violators. States will still decide their own rules on hemp. To allow hemp farming, they need to pass local laws, as the Georgia General Assembly did last month. Gov. Brian Kemp has until May 12 to decide whether to sign House Bill 213, which would allow in-state production of the CBD oil that retailers currently import from other states. Kemp already signed a separate bill that allows medical marijuana, the more potent offspring, to be grown in Georgia and sold to the states 9,500 registered patients. The medical marijuana measure restricts production to six companies on a total of nine acres; the hemp farming bill doesnt limit growers and acreage. Meanwhile, the FDA is playing catch up. The agency recently warned that is still illegal to add CBD or THC to food and transport it over state lines. The FDA will hold its first public hearing in Maryland on May 31 to figure out how to regulate the use of CBD in products, including foods and beverages. That's according to two people familiar with the subpoena who discussed it on condition of anonymity. It's the first known subpoena of a member of President Donald Trump's immediate family, and a new sign that the Senate panel is continuing with its own Russia investigation even after the release of special counsel Robert Mueller's report on the same subject. Administrators in West Warwick were happy to accept her donation of $4,000 and apply it to students' accounts, Penta told WPRI. That district, which is separate from Warwick Public Schools, also announced that students would no longer be denied a hot meal based on their ability to pay. In Warwick, things went very differently. On Sunday, Penta wrote on Facebook that she had met with district officials about paying off students' lunch debt on two separate occasions, and tried to offer them an additional $4,000. The second time, she said, she had left in tears after they refused to accept the check. As a result, the recent news that students who couldn't afford lunch would be getting a cold sandwich came as a blow to her. "To me, a sunbutter and jelly sandwich is lunch shaming, because you're basically telling all the other kids that you can't afford lunch and you don't have any lunch money," she told WPRI. In a statement to local media, Warwick officials said that they had to turn down the money because otherwise they would have had to decide which students it should benefit. "The ethics issue is clear-cut: Sen. Blue can't serve the public interest when he's heavily paid to serve the diverging interests of Duke Energy," NC WARN Executive Director Jim Warren said in a statement. Blue, a former state House speaker, has served in the General Assembly for 35 years. He rejected suggestions that his financial interests were connected to his support for changing way Duke Energy is regulated. "I am confident in the position that I've taken. I haven't been influenced by anything that Duke has done," Blue told reporters. "One would be stupid to serve in this body and be compensated for taking some act as a result of what they did do." A total of 88 complaints were either filed with the North Carolina State Ethics Commission in 2018 or were carried over and still pending last year, commission attorney Kathleen Edwards said. Only nine were referred to legislative, judicial or other oversight bodies for further consideration of potential sanctions, she said. Nine cases remain pending, while the rest were dismissed because they weren't properly filed, didn't concern a person covered under state law or there was insufficient evidence of a violation, Edwards said. ___ RALEIGH One North Carolina legislative chamber wrapped up its work on Tuesday before a deadline the General Assembly imposed on itself this week so that the universe of bills filed during this two-year session can be narrowed. The House approved nearly 30 bills, including measures designed to address apartment and house renters who say they have emotional support pets and one that gives billboard companies the option to move signs when they're removed due to the construction of new roads. The Senate planned to take up more bills before Thursday's actual "crossover" deadline. Any measure unrelated to taxes or spending that doesn't pass one chamber by then is considered dead until 2021. There are ways around the deadline, however. Helpful pets Media reports of abuses by people who say they need animals for emotional support while traveling or in rental properties that otherwise bar animals are the impetus for a measure approved overwhelmingly by the House. Having patiently endured a show trial in the Senate, who could blame Barr for passing on the chance to repeat the experience in the notoriously more raucous House of Representatives? Just as the leak of Muellers March 27 letter set the stage for the Senate spectacle, Pelosis accusation that the nations top Justice Department officer has himself committed a crime sets the stage for whatever production the Democrat-controlled House is now frantically concocting. And it could be anything. We are talking about a group of elected officials who must have thought it was a real home run to use a plastic chicken for a photo op in hopes of making some point about the attorney general of the United States. Its not clear that Democratic leadership knows what its endgame really is. Across the board, polling shows public support for impeachment dwindling, even among Democrats. Quinnipiac on Thursday showed that two-thirds of Americans overall oppose impeachment, with only 56% of Democrats favoring it a drop of nearly 10 points among Democrats in recent months. But some, such as Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif. who seems to have replaced Anthony Weiner as Pelosis new attack dog want to impeach not only President Donald Trump, but Barr as well. Minerva Cisneros Garcia was once a prisoner among friends, embraced by strangers in a Triad church. When the Winston-Salem resident faced deportation to her native Mexico, Congregational United Church of Christ of Greensboro provided her and her three sons a home in its basement for three months in 2017. Garcia illegally entered the United States in 2000 to escape violence in her native Mexico and to find better opportunities to educate her older son, Eduardo, who is blind. She was employed, had no criminal record and dutifully checked in annually with immigration officials, as required. In light of Eduardos needs, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in 2013 gave her a stay of removal from the country. But four years later, for reasons that are still unclear, she was told on May 25, 2017, to leave the country by June 30 of that year. So Congregational United converted church offices into bedrooms and provided sanctuary for Cisneros and her family. The family brought along pet goldfish and Garcia made spare money by selling handmade jewelry that she created on a table in a corner of the room. TORONTO, May 8, 2019 /CNW/ - Avesoro Resources Inc., ("Avesoro" or the "Company"), the TSX and AIM listed West African gold producer, is pleased to announce the results of an upgraded Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimate, and an updated Life of Mine ("LOM") plan, for its Youga Gold Mine ("Youga") in Burkina Faso. Highlights: Four year LOM extension to 2031 based on current Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves, with potential to extend further with additional drilling of existing Mineral Resources to upgrade the confidence level and prospective satellite targets across the Company's 763km 2 exploration portfolio surrounding the Youga, Ouare and Balogo deposits; exploration portfolio surrounding the Youga, Ouare and Balogo deposits; Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves increased by 23% to 14.74Mt containing 814,900 ounces of gold grading 1.72g/t; Youga Mineral Reserves are 7.8Mt containing 372,200 ounces of gold grading 1.5g/t; Ouare Mineral Reserves are 6.7Mt containing 403,000 ounces of gold grading 1.9g/t; Balogo Mineral Reserves are 0.2Mt containing 39,700 ounces gold grading 5.7g/t; Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource of 22.16Mt containing 1,189,100 ounces of gold grading 1.67g/t 1 ; ; Inferred Mineral Resource of 7.6Mt containing 377,000 ounces of gold grading 1.5g/t; Total forecast recovered gold of 734,066 ounces over LOM; Total upfront capital of US$17.7 million for the construction of the Ouare to Youga haul road, Tailings Storage Facility ("TSF") upgrades and the mobilization of contract operations, plus sustaining capital costs of US$17.8 million , including TSF expansion and mine closure; for the construction of the Ouare to Youga haul road, Tailings Storage Facility ("TSF") upgrades and the mobilization of contract operations, plus sustaining capital costs of , including TSF expansion and mine closure; Average LOM operating cash costs of US$877 per ounce and all in sustaining cash costs ("AISC") of US$973 per ounce 2 ; and per ounce and all in sustaining cash costs ("AISC") of per ounce ; and Youga post tax NPV of US$142.6 million at a 5% discount rate with a US$1,300 /oz gold price and LOM free cash flow generation of US$186.8 million . Notes: 1. Mineral Resources are inclusive of Mineral Reserves. 2. See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures". Serhan Umurhan, Chief Executive Officer of Avesoro, commented: "Following the previous announcement of the updated Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource estimates for the New Liberty gold mine in March 2019 and now the Youga gold mine today, I am pleased to confirm that we have successfully added 950,000 ounces of gold to the Company's combined Mineral Reserve inventory, net of mining depletion, as a result of the Company's 2018 exploration campaign across its license portfolio in Liberia and Burkina Faso. Each of our assets experienced an increase in Mineral Reserves, net of depletion, and as a result, we have substantially extended the lives of both our mines. I now expect the Company to sustain group level gold production above 200,000 ounces per annum for each of the next four years as indicated by the updated mine plans. Following the Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve upgrades for both New Liberty and Youga, the combined project level post tax Net Present Value (NPV 5% ) is indicated to be US$428.6 million after project and equipment finance debt repayments of US$100 million, and the combined project level post-debt and post-tax LOM cash flows are indicated as US$556.8 million, at US$1,300/oz gold price. We are continuing to assess a number of optimisation options, including ore sorting and heap leach scenarios, to further improve the economics of both projects in addition to the significant potential to add further economic ounces to the projects with additional drilling." Table 1: Summary of Forecast Project Physicals for each Full Year of Production Parameter Unit 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 Total Mining Physicals Youga Open Pit Waste Tonnes kt 19,464 4,374 - 1,098 3,715 9,220 11,677 12,044 1,357 - - - - 62,948 Marginal Tonnes kt 88 35 - 6 170 253 117 95 68 - - - - 832 Ore Tonnes kt 995 395 - 0 880 1,382 1,291 588 636 - - - - 6,167 ROM Grade g/t Au 3.35 1.61 - 0.68 1.33 1.19 1.16 1.55 1.75 - - - - 1.67 Strip Ratio W:O 17.98 10.15 - 180.42 3.54 5.64 8.30 17.63 1.93 - - - - 8.99 Balogo Open Pit Waste Tonnes kt 1,296 10,247 - - - - - - - - - - - 11,543 Marginal Tonnes kt 0 9 - - - - - - - - - - - 9 Ore Tonnes kt 43 154 - - - - - - - - - - - 197 ROM Grade g/t Au 5.74 6.22 - - - - - - - - - - - 6.11 Strip Ratio W:O 29.65 62.86 - - - - - - - - - - - 55.84 Ouare open Pit Waste Tonnes kt - 10,780 14,698 9,704 5,431 1,781 - - - - - - - 42,393 Marginal Tonnes kt - 276 1,077 875 1,162 145 - - - - - - - 3,535 Ore Tonnes kt - 685 2,454 1,463 1,850 271 - - - - - - - 6,723 ROM Grade g/t Au - 1.96 1.92 2.18 1.57 1.38 - - - - - - - 1.86 Strip Ratio W:O - 11.22 4.16 4.15 1.80 4.28 - - - - - - - 4.13 Production Physicals Milled Tonnes kt 1,200 1,203 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,203 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,203 1,200 1,200 334 14,744 Milled Grade g/t Au 2.82 2.33 3.01 2.54 2.05 1.44 1.42 1.35 1.35 0.88 0.85 0.82 0.87 1.72 Recovered Gold koz 97.86 81.20 104.80 88.31 71.15 50.19 49.20 46.96 46.83 30.82 29.68 28.64 8.42 734.07 As indicated in Table 1 above, forecast production at the Youga gold mine is 6.16 Mt of run of mine ("ROM") ore at Youga plus 197,390 kt of ROM ore at Balogo, and 6.72 Mt of ROM ore at Ouare for total recovered gold production of 734,066 ounces. Based upon the current known Mineral Reserves, the overall LOM is 11 years (including a period of stockpile reclaim following the cessation of mining activities in 2027), with an average mill feed rate of 100,000 tonnes per month at an average grade of 1.72 g/t Au maintained over the LOM. Mining activities at the Youga pits is expected to pause temporarily in 2021 with the Youga mill processing ore from Balogo, and Ouare during that time. Operations at the previously mined Balogo satellite pit recommence in December 2019 and continue through to December 2020 when the pit is closed. Development of Ouare, located 44km to the East of the Youga process plant, commences with construction of the haul road in Q4 2019/Q1 2020 with production commencing in Q2 2020 and continuing through to early 2024. Ore production from the Youga open-pits recommence in Q1 2023 until the cessation of open-pit operations in early 2027. Based on current known Mineral Reserves, the Youga mill will continue to process ROM ore from the Ouare deposit and stockpile reclaim until Q1 2031 after which the mine would close. Table 2: Key LOM Financial Parameter Unit LOM Total Pre-Tax Project NPV1,3 US$m 173.4 Post-Tax NPV1,2,3 US$m 142.6 Free Cash Life of Mine2 US$m 186.8 LOM Operating Cash Cost3 US$/oz 877 LOM AISC3 US$/oz 973 Notes: 1 At 5% discount rate and US$1,300/oz Au price 2 After tax 3 See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" Updated Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimate The updated Mineral Resource and Reserve Estimates were produced by CSA Global (UK) Ltd with an effective date of December 31, 2018. Table 3: Updated Mineral Resource Estimate, prepared in accordance with CIM Standards. Mineral Resource Estimate for the Youga Gold Mine, Burkina Faso, as at December 31, 2018 Deposit Cut-off grade (g/t) Measured Indicated Measured and Indicated Inferred Tonnes (Mt) Au grade (g/t) Au metal (koz) Tonnes (Mt) Au grade (g/t) Au metal (koz) Tonnes (Mt) Au grade (g/t) Au metal (koz) Tonnes (Mt) Au grade (g/t) Au metal (koz) Netiana 0.60 0.03 7.63 7.5 0.13 6.76 29.2 0.17 6.92 36.8 0.0 1.8 1 Main Pit 0.55 2.96 1.53 145.6 2.96 1.53 145.6 0.8 1.4 36 Zergore 0.55 2.57 1.20 99.1 2.57 1.20 99.1 1.0 1.2 39 NTV 0.55 1.88 1.10 66.6 1.88 1.10 66.6 1.5 1.3 61 A2N East 0.55 0.20 1.38 9.1 0.20 1.38 9.1 0.1 1.6 6 A2N Middle 0.55 0.02 6.38 3.7 0.07 6.31 14.4 0.09 6.32 18.1 0.0 6.4 5 Gassore 0.55 0.93 3.69 110.3 0.93 3.69 110.3 0.5 4.0 61 East Pit 0.55 0.68 1.55 33.8 0.68 1.55 33.8 0.0 1.2 2 West Pit 1 0.55 0.1 1.6 5 West Pit 2 0.55 0.57 1.46 26.8 0.57 1.46 26.8 0.2 1.5 8 West Pit 3 0.55 0.64 1.53 31.5 0.64 1.53 31.5 0.2 1.2 7 West Pit 4 0.55 0.33 1.54 16.3 0.33 1.54 16.3 0.4 0.9 13 LeDuc 0.55 1.0 1.0 34 Ouare 0.65 11.14 1.66 595.1 11.14 1.66 595.1 1.7 1.8 99 Total 0.05 7.17 11.3 22.11 1.66 1,177.8 22.16 1.67 1,189.1 7.6 1.5 377 Notes: 1. The effective date of the Mineral Resource Statement is 31 December 2018. 2. The Mineral Resources have been depleted for mining up to 31 December 2018. The Ouare Mineral Resources have no historic mining but has been depleted for orpailleur workings. 3. Mineral Resources are reported above a surface based on the NPVS shell from a US$1,500 gold price pit optimisation run to support assumptions relating to reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction. 4. Figures have been rounded to the appropriate level of precision for the reporting of Mineral Resources. 5. Due to rounding, some columns or rows may not compute exactly as shown. 6. The Mineral Resources are stated as in situ dry tonnes. All figures are in metric tonnes. 7. The Mineral Resource has been classified under the guidelines of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves, Definitions and Guidelines prepared by the CIM Standing Committee on Reserve Definitions and adopted by CIM Council (2014), and procedures for classifying the reported Mineral Resources were undertaken within the context of the Canadian Securities Administrators National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101). 8. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues. 9. Mineral Resources have been reported inclusive of Mineral Reserves, where applicable. Table 4: Updated Mineral Reserve Estimate, prepared in accordance with CIM Standards. Mineral Reserve estimated for the Youga Gold Mine, Burkina Faso, as at 31 December 2018 Deposit Cut-off grade Proven Probable Total Mineral Reserve (g/t) Tonnes Au grade Au metal Tonnes Au grade Au metal Tonnes Au grade (g/t) Au metal (Mt) (g/t) (koz) (Mt) (g/t) (koz) (Mt) (koz) Netiana 1.10 0.06 5.56 10.5 0.14 6.35 28.3 0.20 6.11 38.8 Mid Pit 0.70 0.02 5.98 3.5 0.06 5.88 11.3 0.08 5.90 14.8 Gassore 0.70 0.67 3.74 80.0 0.67 3.74 80.0 Zergore 0.70 1.46 1.22 57.1 1.46 1.22 57.1 West Pit 2 0.70 0.37 1.34 15.8 0.37 1.34 15.8 West Pit 3 0.70 0.39 1.61 20.2 0.39 1.61 20.2 West Pit 4 0.70 0.26 1.53 12.6 0.26 1.53 12.6 Main Pit 0.70 1.27 1.63 66.6 1.27 1.63 66.6 East Pit 0.70 0.47 1.47 22.4 0.47 1.47 22.4 NTV 0.70 1.21 1.07 41.6 1.21 1.07 41.6 Ouare 0.84 6.72 1.86 403.0 6.72 1.86 403.0 TOTAL (exc. stocks) 0.08 5.66 14.0 13.01 1.81 758.9 13.09 1.84 772.9 Youga Stockpiles 1.64 0.78 41.1 1.64 0.78 41.1 Balogo Stockpiles 0.02 1.34 0.9 0.02 1.34 0.9 TOTAL (inc. stocks) 0.08 5.66 14.0 14.67 1.70 800.85 14.74 1.72 814.9 Technical Report The Mineral Reserve and Resource Estimate and Updated LOM plan was completed by CSA Global UK Ltd ("CSA") with input from Avesoro and has an effective date of January 1, 2019. A supporting Technical Report, prepared in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument 43-101 will be filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Company's corporate website www.avesoro.com within 45 days of the date of this press release. Non-GAAP Financial Measures The Company has included certain non-GAAP financial measures in this press release, including operating cash costs, all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") per ounce of gold sold and net present value ("NPV"). These non-GAAP financial measures do not have any standardised meaning. Accordingly, these financial measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"). Operating cash costs and AISC are a common financial performance measure in the mining industry but have no standard definition under IFRS. Operating cash costs are reflective of the cost of production. AISC include operating cash costs, net-smelter royalty, corporate costs, sustaining capital expenditure, sustaining exploration expenditure and capitalised stripping costs. The Company reports cash costs on an ounces of gold sold basis. Other companies may calculate these measures differently and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure Certain information contained in this announcement would have been deemed inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 until the release of this announcement. About Avesoro Resources Inc. Avesoro Resources is a West Africa focused gold producer and development company that operates two gold mines across West Africa and is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX") and the AIM market operated by the London Stock Exchange ("AIM"). The Company's assets include the New Liberty Gold Mine in Liberia ("New Liberty") and the Youga Gold Mine in Burkina Faso ("Youga"). New Liberty has an estimated Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve of 17Mt with 1,365,000 ounces of gold grading 2.49g/t and an estimated Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource of 20.47Mt with 1,748,200 ounces of gold grading 2.66g/t and an estimated Inferred Mineral Resource of 3.0Mt with 271,000 ounces of gold grading 2.8g/t. A supporting Technical Report summarising the PFS, prepared in accordance with CIM guidelines, is set out in an NI 43-101 compliant Technical Report dated January 31, 2019 and entitled "NI 43-101 Pre-Feasibility Report, Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Update for the New Liberty Gold Mine, Liberia" and is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Youga has an estimated Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve of 14.7Mt with 814,900 ounces of gold grading 1.72g/t and a combined estimated Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource of 22.16Mt with 1,189,100 ounces of gold grading 1.67g/t and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 7.6Mt with 377,000 ounces of gold grading 1.5g/t. A supporting Technical Report summarising the PFS, prepared in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument 43-101 will be filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Company's corporate website www.avesoro.com within 45 days of the date of this press release. For more information, please visit www.avesoro.com Qualified Persons The information in this press release relating to the Mineral Resource estimates for the Youga Gold Mine have been prepared by Dr. Belinda van Lente, who is a registered Professional Natural Scientist (Pr.Sci.Nat) of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions. Dr. van Lente is a full-time employee of CSA Global (UK) Ltd and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style(s) of mineralisation and type of deposit(s) under consideration and to the activity which she has undertaken to qualify as a "Qualified Person" as defined in NI 43-101. Dr. van Lente has reviewed and approved this press release and consents to the inclusion in the press release of the matters based on her information, in the form and context in which this appears. The information in this press release relating to the open pit Mineral Reserves for the Youga Gold Mine has been prepared by Dr. Matthew Randall, who is Chartered Engineer and a registered Member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IMMM) of the UK. Dr. Matthew Randall is an associate mining engineer of CSA Global (UK) Ltd and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he has undertaken to qualify as a "Qualified Person" as defined in NI 43-101. Dr. Matthew Randall has reviewed and approved this press release and consents to the inclusion in the announcement of the matters based on his information, in the form and context in which this appears. Except as set forth above, the other scientific and technical information in this press release relating to the Youga Gold Mine has been prepared by Andrew Bamber, who is a registered Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (APEGBC) and a Member of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Engineers (CIM). Dr. Bamber is a director of Bara Consulting Ltd. and an associate of CSA Global (UK) Ltd., and has sufficient experience relevant to the type of deposit under consideration and to the work which he has undertaken to qualify as a "Qualified Person" as defined in NI 43-101. Dr. Bamber has reviewed and approved this press release and consents to the inclusion in the press release of the matters based on his information, in the form and context in which this appears. The Company's Qualified Person is Mark J. Pryor, who holds a BSc (Hons) in Geology & Mineralogy from Aberdeen University, United Kingdom and is a Fellow of the Geological Society of London, a Fellow of the Society of Economic Geologists and a registered Professional Natural Scientist (Pr. Sci.Nat) of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions. Mark Pryor is an independent technical consultant with over 25 years of global experience in exploration, mining and mine development and is a "Qualified Person" as defined in NI 43-101, and has reviewed and approved this press release. Mr. Pryor has verified the underlying technical data disclosed in this press release. Forward Looking Statements Certain information contained in this press release constitutes forward looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. This information or statements may relate to future events, facts, or circumstances or the Company's future financial or operating performance or other future events or circumstances. All information other than historical fact is forward looking information and involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results or performance to be materially different from any future results, performance, events or circumstances expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "would", "project", "should", "believe", "target", "predict" and "potential". No assurance can be given that this information will prove to be correct and such forward looking information included in this press release should not be unduly relied upon. Forward looking information and statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Forward looking statements or information in this press release include, among other things, all of the projected and forecast economic and operational results for the Youga Gold Mine, including statements of total forecast recovered gold of 734,066 ounces over LOM, average LOM operating cash costs of US$877 per ounce, LOM AISC of US$973 per ounce, post tax NPV of US$142.6million at a 5% discount rate (and US$1,300/oz gold price) and LOM free cash generation of US$155.3million. This release also contains references to estimates of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. The estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves is inherently uncertain and involves subjective judgments about many relevant factors. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The accuracy of any such estimates is a function of the quantity and quality of available data, and of the assumptions made and judgments used in engineering and geological interpretation (including estimated future production, the anticipated tonnages and grades that will be mined and the estimated level of recovery that will be realized), which may prove to be unreliable and depend, to a certain extent, upon the analysis of drilling results and statistical inferences that may ultimately prove to be inaccurate. Mineral Resource or Mineral Reserve estimates may have to be re-estimated based on: (i) fluctuations in the gold price; (ii) results of drilling, (iii) the results of metallurgical testing and other studies, including their subsequent refinement and updating; (iv) proposed mining operations, including dilution; (v) the evaluation of mine plans subsequent to the date of any estimates; (vi) changes in mining or other costs, and (vii) the possible failure to receive required permits, approvals and licenses or changes to existing mining licences. In making the forward looking information or statements contained in this press release, assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: general business, economic and mining industry conditions; interest rates and foreign exchange rates; the continuing accuracy of Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates; geological and metallurgical conditions (including with respect to the size, grade and recoverability of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves) and cost estimates on which the Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates are based; the supply and demand for commodities and precious and base metals and the level and volatility of the prices of gold; market competition; the ability of the Company to raise sufficient funds from capital markets and/or debt to meet its future obligations and planned activities and that unforeseen events do not impact the ability of the Company to use existing funds to fund future plans and projects as currently contemplated; the stability and predictability of the political environments and legal and regulatory frameworks including with respect to, among other things, the ability of the Company to obtain, maintain, renew and/or extend required permits, licences, authorizations and/or approvals from the appropriate regulatory authorities; that contractual counterparties perform as agreed; and the ability of the Company to continue to obtain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost-efficient manner to meet its demand. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information or statements contained in this press release as a result of risks and uncertainties (both foreseen and unforeseen) and should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. These risks and uncertainties include the risks normally incidental to exploration and development of mineral projects and the conduct of mining operations (including exploration failure, cost overruns or increases, and operational difficulties resulting from plant or equipment failure, among others); the inability of the Company to obtain required financing when needed and/or on acceptable terms or at all; risks related to operating in West Africa, including potentially more limited infrastructure and/or less developed legal and regulatory regimes; health risks associated with the mining workforce in West Africa; risks related to the Company's title to its mineral properties; the risk of adverse changes in commodity prices; the risk that the Company's exploration for and development of mineral deposits may not be successful; the inability of the Company to obtain, maintain, renew and/or extend required licences, permits, authorizations and/or approvals from the appropriate regulatory authorities and other risks relating to the legal and regulatory frameworks in jurisdictions where the Company operates, including adverse or arbitrary changes in applicable laws or regulations or in their enforcement; competitive conditions in the mineral exploration and mining industry; risks related to obtaining insurance or adequate levels of insurance for the Company's operations; that Mineral Resource and Reserve estimates are only estimates and actual metal produced may be less than estimated in a Mineral Resource or Reserve estimate; the risk that the Company will be unable to delineate additional Mineral Resources; risks related to environmental regulations and cost of compliance, as well as costs associated with possible breaches of such regulations; uncertainties in the interpretation of results from drilling; risks related to the tax residency of the Company; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with expectations; the risk of delays in construction resulting from, among others, the failure to obtain materials in a timely manner or on a delayed schedule; inflation pressures which may increase the cost of production or of consumables beyond what is estimated in studies and forecasts; changes in exchange and interest rates; risks related to the activities of artisanal miners, whose activities could delay or hinder exploration or mining operations; the risk that third parties to contracts may not perform as contracted or may breach their agreements; the risk that plant, equipment or labour may not be available at a reasonable cost or at all, or cease to be available, or in the case of labour, may undertake strike or other labour actions; the inability to attract and retain key management and personnel; and the risk of political uncertainty, terrorism, civil strife, or war in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates, or in neighbouring jurisdictions which could impact on the Company's exploration, development and operating activities. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot provide assurance that actual results or performance will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward looking information and statements included in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and are made only as of the date of this press release. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward looking information except as required by applicable securities laws. All amounts discussed herein are denominated in U.S. dollars THUNDER BAY, ON, May 8, 2019 /CNW/ - Premier Gold Mines Limited ("Premier" or "The Company") (TSX:PG) is pleased to report operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The Company previously released first quarter production results on April 30, 2019. Premier is a growth oriented, Canadian based mining company involved in the exploration, development and production of gold and silver deposits in Canada, the United States and Mexico. The company manages a high-quality pipeline of precious metal projects in safe, proven, and accessible mining jurisdictions and is focused on profitable low-cost production from its two producing gold mines and the development of two advanced-stage, multi-million ounce gold deposits. 2019 First Quarter Highlights Production of 17,614 ounces of gold and 57,681 ounces of silver Cash costs 1 of $806 per ounce of gold sold of per ounce of gold sold AISC 1 of $1,105 per ounce of gold sold of per ounce of gold sold Revenue of $23.1 million Mine operating income of $3.7 million CEO Commentary "With the next two phases of production under construction at South Arturo, and better grades expected in the first half of the year at Mercedes, the Company's is well positioned to return to higher levels of production and reduced costs in the near future," stated Ewan Downie, President & CEO. "The ongoing permitting initiatives at the Cove and Hardrock Projects and the recent high-grade gold discoveries by Barrick as they earn-in to our property around Cove, provide Premier with one of the best and highly leveraged organic growth profiles amongst its peers." Three months ended March 31, 2019 A total of 17,614 ounces of gold and 57,681 ounces of silver were produced during Q1 2019 compared to 30,550 ounces of gold and 59,826 ounces of silver during Q1 2018. The Company reported total revenue of $23.1 million and mine operating income of $3.7 million during the first quarter compared to revenue of $39.2 million and mine operating income of $9.6 million during Q1 2018. The reduction in first quarter production, revenue and operating income when compared to the prior year period, is due to a hiatus in production at South Arturo. South Arturo operations have transitioned from Phase 2 open pit mining to Phase 1 open pit and El Nino underground operations where development is underway and production is expected by early 2020. The Company continues to focus on near term exploration and pre-development initiatives that will support its longerterm objective of increased annual production over the next several years. A total of $6.2 million in exploration and pre-development expenses were incurred during the quarter. These expenses, when factored with the reduction in mine operating income, contributed to a net loss of $0.9 million reported for the quarter. A total of $13.4 million in capital expenditures were incurred during the quarter, including $4.6 million for mine development and construction at South Arturo, $2.6 million for development at McCoy-cove, and the balance for sustaining and expansion related activities at Mercedes. The Company closed the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $43.5 million, and inventory of 2,304 ounces of gold and 9,902 ounces of silver. Consolidated quarter operating results are provided in Table 1 below. Table 1 - Selected Consolidated Operational and Financial Information Three months ended March 31 (in millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise stated) (iii) 2019 2018 Ore milled tonnes 178,771 313,850 Gold produced ounces 17,614 30,550 Silver produced ounces 57,681 59,826 Gold sold ounces 17,520 29,275 Silver sold ounces 62,581 66,210 Realized Price Average realized gold price (i,ii) $/ounce 1,271 1,300 Average realized silver price (i,ii) $/ounce 16 17 Non-IFRS Performance Measures Co-product cash costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 806 705 Co-product all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 1,105 824 Co-product cash costs per ounce of silver sold (i,ii) $/ounce 10 11 Co-product all-in sustaining costs per ounce of silver sold (i,ii) $/ounce 13 13 By-product cash costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 786 691 By-product all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 1,098 816 Financial Measures Gold revenue m $ 22.2 37.9 Silver revenue m $ 1.0 1.2 Total revenue m $ 23.1 39.2 Mine operating income m $ 3.7 9.6 Net loss m $ (0.9) (2.0) Loss per share /share - (0.01) EBITDA (i,ii) m $ 4.4 9.4 Cash & cash equivalents balance m $ 43.5 98.4 Cash flow from operations m $ (4.7) 0.4 Exploration, evaluation & pre-development expense m $ 6.2 6.4 Capital Total capital expenditures m $ 13.4 5.3 Capital expenditures - sustaining (i,ii) m $ 4.2 1.8 Capital expenditures - expansionary (i,ii) m $ 9.2 3.5 (i) A cautionary note regarding Non-IFRS financial metrics is included in the "Non-IFRS Measures" section of this Management's Discussion and Analysis. (ii) Cash costs, all-in sustaining costs, EBITDA, sustaining and expansionary capital expenditures as well as average realized gold\silver price per ounce are Non-IFRS metrics and discussed in the section "Non-IFRS Measures" of the Q1 2019 Management's Discussion and Analysis. (iii) May not add due to rounding. Mercedes The Mercedes Mine is 150 kilometers northeast of the city of Hermosillo in the state of Sonora, Mexico. Operations are exploiting low-sulfidation quartz veins and quartz veinlet stockwork for gold and silver with an ore extraction rate targeting 2,000 tonnes per day. Quarter and year to date operating results are provided in Table 2 below. Table 2 - Mercedes Selected Financial and Operating Results Three months ended March 31 (in millions of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise stated) (iii) 2019 2018 Ore & Metals Ore milled tonnes 178,771 168,314 Gold produced ounces 17,614 15,009 Silver produced ounces 57,681 57,370 Gold sold ounces 17,520 17,180 Silver sold ounces 62,581 66,210 Average gold grade grams/t 3.18 2.91 Average silver grade grams/t 27.31 31.78 Average gold recovery rate % 96.2 95.2 Average silver recovery rate % 36.8 33.4 Realized Price Average realized gold price (i,ii) $/ounce 1,271 1,287 Average realized silver price (i,ii) $/ounce 16 17 Non-IFRS Performance Measures Co-product cash costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 806 921 Co-product all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 1,105 1,096 Co-product cash costs per ounce of silver sold (i,ii) $/ounce 10 11 Co-product all-in sustaining costs per ounce of silver sold (i,ii) $/ounce 13 13 By-product cash costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 786 897 By-product all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (i,ii) $/ounce 1,098 1,081 Financial Measures Gold revenue m $ 22.2 22.0 Silver revenue m $ 1.0 1.2 Total revenue m $ 23.1 23.2 Mine operating income / (loss) m $ 3.7 2.4 Exploration, evaluation & pre-development expense m $ 0.6 0.6 Capital Total capital expenditures m $ 6.1 4.4 Capital expenditures - sustaining (i,ii) m $ 4.2 1.8 Capital expenditures - expansionary (i,ii) m $ 1.9 2.6 (i) A cautionary note regarding Non-IFRS financial metrics is included in the "Non-IFRS Measures" section of this Management's Discussion and Analysis. (ii) Cash costs, all-in sustaining costs, sustaining and expansionary capital expenditures as well as average realized gold\silver price per ounce are Non-IFRS metrics and discussed in the section "Non-IFRS Measures" of the Q1 2019 Management's Discussion and Analysis. (iii) May not add due to rounding. Mine production at Mercedes during Q1 2019 was 17,614 ounces of gold and 57,681 ounces of silver compared to 15,009 ounces of gold and 57,370 ounces of silver during Q1 of the prior year. The increased gold production is the result of higher mined grades realized upon transitioning to the new Rey de Oro and Lupita zones as well as consistent stope production from within the Diluvio zone. Unit operating costs at Mercedes during the period, on a co-product basis, were cash costs (1) of $806 and all-in sustaining costs (AISC) (1) of $1,105 per ounce of gold sold. While AISC reported by Mercedes for this first quarter exceed annual guidance, AISC is tracking to the 2019 mine plan where mine development is weighted heavily toward the first half of 2019 and gold production toward the second half. During the first quarter the Company incurred capital sustaining costs of $4.2 million, representing over 40% of the annual capital sustaining cost budget for Mercedes in 2019. With gold production and unit operating costs at Mercedes tracking in line with the mine plan, the Company is currently on pace to meet its annual production and unit operating cost guidance. Exploration activities continued during the quarter with a total of 7,659 feet of drilling targeting Diluvio, Marianas and Barrancas veins to replace reserves, support mine production, test extensions of the main mine trends and to test new geological targets. In addition to the $4.2 million in sustaining capital expenditures incurred during the quarter, the Company capitalized another $1.9 million in expansionary mine development and exploration related costs. South Arturo The South Arturo Mine in Nevada is a joint venture operated by Barrick Gold Corporation ("Barrick"), where mining of the Phase 2 open pit has concluded and construction is well underway on two new mining centers; the Phase 1 open pit and the El Nino underground operations which are expected to ramp-up production in 2019 and 2020. Capital expenditures of $4.6 million were incurred during the first quarter for stripping for the Phase 1 open pit and underground ramp development at El Nino. Exploration activities are focused on opportunities near existing mine infrastructure, including further refinement of a potential heap leach operation, and resource definition and expansion drilling from underground drill stations located within El Nino underground workings. Cove and McCoy-Cove A Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") was completed for the Cove Helen-Gap deposits in the first half of 2018, including designs for underground exploration development and drilling, preliminary engineering, dewatering, environmental baseline studies, and a life of mine plan. Development of a ramp and underground exploration drill stations is planned to start in the third quarter of 2019. During the first quarter of 2019, drilling the first of two new water wells required for groundwater modelling was completed and drilling of the second well is underway. Pump tests, interpretation of results and groundwater modeling will be completed in the third quarter as part of the work required for an eventual feasibility study for the project. On the ground surrounding the Cove Project, Barrick continues to explore and earn-in to the McCoy-Cove joint venture with positive results. Several regional targets were identified, and 1,977 meters of drilling was completed. Ongoing drilling is focused on testing for mineralization in the Favret and Dixie Valley rock formations that host the deposits on the carve-out lands 100% owned by Premier. Drilling has intersected mineralization and alteration at several target areas including Lighthouse, Alpha, Windy Point and more recently at Antenna where a new discovery was recently announced with an intercept of 118.9 meters of 4.12 g/t gold in hole PB19-03R. Higher grade intervals within the intercept include 6.1 meters of 15.74 g/t gold beginning at 606.6 meters. On a grade-thickness basis, this drill intercept represents one of the most significant ever drilled on the property and the hole terminated still in high grade mineralization. Greenstone Gold Mines On March 26, 2019, the Provincial Environmental Assessment ("EA") for the Hardrock Project was approved by the Minister of Environment, Conservation & Parks of Ontario. A total of $6.5 million in expenditures were incurred during the quarter on a range of project activities including definition drilling to further validate and potentially upgrade the resource block model, detailed engineering, project permitting and First Nations consultation. Centerra Gold Inc. ("Centerra") continues to fund 100% of expenditures incurred at the project. As at March 31, 2019 Centerra had contributed $76.5 million toward its funding obligation to the Greenstone Partnership. All abbreviations used in this press release are available by following this link (click here). Stephen McGibbon, P. Geo., is the Qualified Person for the information contained in this press release and is a Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43 - 101. Assay samples were sent to ALS Laboratories prep facilities located in Elko, Nevada and Reno, Nevada and analysis was performed at their Vancouver, Canada analytical facility utilizing 30-gram fire assay with an AA finish for Au and ICP-MS 48 elements scan from 4-acid digestion for RC and Core samples. For a complete description of Premier's sample preparation, analytical methods and QA/QC procedures refer to the technical report dated June 29, 2018 (effective date March 31, 2018), entitled "Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Cove Project, Lander County, Nevada" located on Premier's website and at www.sedar.com. Q1 financial results and conference call details: Full financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2019, will be released before market open on May 8, 2019 and a conference call with senior management will be held at 10:00am EST. Details for the conference call and webcast can be found below and will be accessible on the Company's website. Toll Free (North America): (+1) 888 390 0605 International: (+1) 416 764 8609 Conference ID: 90889716 Webcast Link Click Here Conference Call Replay The conference call replay will be available from 1:00pm EST on May 8, 2019 until 11:59pm EST on May 15, 2019. Toll Free Replay Call (North America): (+1) 888 390 0541 International Replay Call: (+1) 416 764 8677 Passcode: 889716 # A cautionary note regarding Non-IFRS financial metrics is included in the "Non-IFRS Measures" section of the March 31, 2019 Management Discussion and Analysis. Non-IFRS Measures The Company has included certain terms and performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") within this document. These include: cash cost per ounce sold, all in sustaining cost ("AISC") per ounce sold, earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"), adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization ("Adjusted EBITDA"), adjusted earnings / (loss) per share, free cash flow, capital expenditures (expansionary), capital expenditures (sustaining) and average realized price per ounce. Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore, they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements. Readers should refer to the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis under the heading "Non-IFRS Measures" for a more detailed discussion of how such measures are calculated. This Press Release contains certain information that may constitute "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements about strategic plans, including future operations, future work programs, capital expenditures, discovery and production of minerals, price of gold and currency exchange rates, timing of geological reports and corporate and technical objectives. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including the risks inherent to the mining industry, adverse economic and market developments and the risks identified in Premier's annual information form under the heading "Risk Factors." There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. All forward-looking information contained in this press release is given as of the date hereof and is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management as at the date hereof. Premier disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. VANCOUVER, May 8, 2019 /CNW/ - Hannan Metals Limited ("Hannan" or the "Company") (TSXV: HAN) (OTCPK: HANNF) announces field teams have commenced the 2019 dry-season exploration program at the San Martin sediment-hosted copper-silver project in north-central Peru. "San Martin demonstrates the initial makings of a new, large and high-grade sediment-hosted copper and silver discovery in north-central Peru," states Michael Hudson, Chairman and CEO. "Very rarely does a junior exploration company gain a first mover advantage that allows claiming of a district-scale sedimentary copper-silver target over 76 strike kilometres in length. With our new geological synthesis and understanding, we look forward to the 2019 field season which will target mineralization scale, grade and thickness." Sediment hosted copper-silver mineralization has been discovered over a combined 76 kilometres of strike within a 110 kilometre basin scale trend within the Gera, Tabalosos and Sacanche claim applications. Initial sampling by Hannan late in 2018 outlined four areas of high-grade copper and silver over 15 kilometres of strike within at least two structural corridors within the Tabalosos claim application area. Nineteen grab samples from mineralized float in river beds (>0.1% copper) ranged in grade from 0.1% to 8.3% copper and 0.2 g/t silver to 109 g/t silver with an average grade of 2.8% copper and 27.2 g/t silver. The field season will last for 5 months. Plans are to collect significant amounts of float, rockchip, channel and stream sediment samples as well as geological mapping over the extensive strike length of the project to demonstrate the scale, width and grade of copper and silver mineralization. Indigenous land designation covers only a small area (13%) of the Tabalosos application and none is recorded in the Gera and Sacanche application claim areas, which the Company views as positive for future drill permitting. Hannan has begun to identify and involve local stakeholder groups, and will continue to engage with communities and authorities during the 2019 field programs. New Geological Thoughts on Basin-Scale Copper Mineralization and Salt Tectonics The San Martin project lies in the Sub-Andean zone of Andean Cordillera. Since the 1970's the area has principally been explored for petroleum, delivering large seismic datasets. Seismic-defined basin structures and stratigraphy can now be interpreted in the context of sediment-hosted copper mineralization. Hannan's technical re-evaluation of the geological setting of the San Martin project has identified a new regional geological framework where salt tectonics has played a critical role in the localization of copper mineralization. A similar correlation is seen at giant sediment hosted copper basins such as the Central African Copper Belt. The San Martin project has undergone a dynamic history. The fundamental control is Triassic-age failed intra-cratonic rifting relating to deposition of the Mitu Formation. This rift basin was likely to have been composed of multiple depocenters and covered an area >1,500 kilometres long and several hundred kilometers wide. Mitu-aged rocks are best exposed in southern Peru where scattered sediment-hosted copper mineralization has been recorded. A thick salt layer, named the Pareni Salt Formation marks the end of the rifting period. The Pareni Salt Formation overlies the Mitu Formation. Originally it may have been up to a kilometre thick. It is overlain by the Pucara Group and Sarayaquillo Formation. Salt tectonics is interpreted to have played an important role in depositional and deformational environment of the overlying Triassic-Jurassic Pucara Formation limestone and Sarayaquillo Formation red beds. The latter is believed to be a syn-kinematic unit (deposited during salt flow or other deformation) based on seismic data, where it shows large thickness variations and growth strata. Sediment-hosted copper mineralization has been extensively found in redox traps of the red bed dominated Sarayaquillo Formation, but other, also unexplored redox traps exist. Rocks of the younger Oriente Group also appear to host the gossanous boulders at Gera South, based on observations by Hannan geologists. Structures relating to salt tectonics are important and have probably directed metal bearing fluids to migrate upwards to interact with redox traps in the stratigraphy. Due to dissolution of the salt many of these may only be present as salt welds today. Basin structures, related to the Mitu-aged rifting have been identified and correlate with the eastern and western margins of the Huallaga basin. These structures may also have been reactivated during Jurassic extensional stages and influenced the salt migration that dominated during the period. Proximity to these basin structures and salt diapirs/ridges are prime targets for sediment-hosted copper mineralization. When compared to the Central African Copper Belt, the Sarayaquillo Formation and Oriente Group hosted targets at the San Martin project corresponds to the stratigraphic and structural sites of Kakanda and Kolwezi copper deposits of the Congolese Copperbelt. Management of Hannan have had significant prior experience in Peru, which is the world's second largest copper producer, with steady growth predicted over the coming years. The country's copper output is forecast to increase from 2.5 million tonnes ("Mt") in 2018 to 3.8Mt by 2027, averaging 4.7% annual growth. Sediment-hosted deposits are the world's second-most important source of copper accounting for approximately 20% of world production. About Hannan Metals Limited (TSX.V:HAN) (OTCPK: HANNF) Hannan Metals Limited is a natural resources and exploration company developing sustainable and ethical resources of metal needed to meet the transition to a low carbon economy. We currently conduct research in Peru and Ireland. Over the last decade, the team behind Hannan has forged a long and successful record of discovering, financing and advancing mineral projects in Europe and Peru. Mr. Michael Hudson FAusIMM, Hannan's Chairman and CEO, a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release. On behalf of the Board, "Michael Hudson" Michael Hudson, Chairman & CEO Forward Looking Statements Certain information set forth in this news release contains "forward-looking statements", and "forward- looking information" under applicable securities laws. Except for statements of historical fact, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements, which include the Company's expectations regarding future performance based on current results, expected cash costs based on the Company's current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs, which may prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Such forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause the Company's actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projects of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statement. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: The Company's expectations regarding timing to complete field work and outcome of results, the granting of the claim applications in Peru, community relations, liabilities inherent in mine development and production, geological risks, the financial markets generally, and the ability of the Company to raise additional capital to fund future operations. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. DIDCOT, UK / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Altus Strategies Plc (AIM: ALS & TSX-V: ALTS), the Africa focused project and royalty generator, announces that on 07 May 2019 it signed a Variation and Accession Deed (the "Deed") with Resolute Mining Ltd ("Resolute") in respect of the joint venture ("JV") on the Company's 106km2 Pitiangoma Est project ("Project") in southern Mali. The Project is located approximately 15km south of the Tabakoroni mine and 40km south of the Syama gold mine, both owned and operated by Resolute. Highlights: Joint Venture with Resolute in southern Mali extended by two years to May 2021 Resolute to earn an initial 70% interest by funding US$3M in exploration and by completing a feasibility study Altus retains option to co-fund its 30% interest on a pro rata basis or exchange its interest for a 2% Net Smelter Return royalty Drilling by Resolute is currently underway at the Pitiangoma Est project Steven Poulton, Chief Executive of Altus, commented: "We are pleased to sign this two year extension with Resolute on the Pitiangoma Est project in Southern Mali. The Project is located on a key geological belt that also hosts the Syama and Tabakoroni gold mines. Resolute are currently undertaking drilling in parallel with other work programmes and we look forward to updating shareholders on the exploration results in due course." About the Pitiangoma Est Project Prior to the JV with Resolute, exploration at Pitiangoma Est included regolith sampling (6,930 soil and 1,230 auger samples), lithological mapping, airborne VTEM geophysics, BLEG stream sediment sampling and RC drilling (2,160m) as well as diamond drilling (6,450m). These work programmes were completed by Endeavour Mining Corporation who held the Project prior to it being acquired by Legend Gold Corporation ("Legend"). Since the commencement of the JV, Resolute has completed a gradient array IP survey, 329 air core drill holes for a total of 14,193m and 7 RC drill holes for a total of 708m. Drilling is currently underway following up anomalies generated by the air core drilling. The following figures have been prepared and relate to the disclosures in this announcement and are visible in the version of this announcement on the Company's website (www.altus-strategies.com) or in PDF format by following this link: Click Here Location of the Pitiangoma Est project in southern Mali is shown in Figure 1. Figure 1. Location of the Pitiangoma Est project Qualified Person The technical disclosure in this regulatory announcement has been read and approved by Steven Poulton, Chief Executive of Altus. He has not verified the historical data disclosed in this regulatory announcement but has no reason to question its accuracy. A graduate of the University of Southampton in Geology (Hons), Steven Poulton also holds a Master's degree from the Camborne School of Mines (Exeter University) in Mining Geology. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and has over 20 years of experience in mineral exploration and is a Qualified Person under the AIM rules and National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators. Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure Certain information contained in this announcement would have been deemed inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 until the release of this announcement. For further information you are invited to visit the Company's website www.altus-strategies.com or contact: Altus Strategies Plc Steven Poulton, Chief Executive Tel: +44 (0) 1235 511 767 E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. SP Angel (Nominated Adviser) Richard Morrison / Soltan Tagiev Tel: +44 (0) 20 3470 0470 SP Angel (Broker) Richard Parlons / Jonathan Williams Tel: +44 (0) 20 3470 0471 Blytheweigh (Financial PR) Tim Blythe / Camilla Horsfall Tel: +44 (0) 20 7138 3204 About Altus Strategies Plc Altus is a London (AIM: ALS) and Toronto (TSX-V: ALTS) listed royalty and project generator in the mining sector with a focus on Africa. Our team creates value by making mineral discoveries across multiple licences. We enter joint ventures with respected groups and our partners earn interest in these discoveries by advancing them toward production. Project milestone payments we receive are reinvested to extend our portfolio, accelerating our growth. The portfolio model reduces risk as our interests are diversified by commodity and by country. The royalties generated from our portfolio of projects are designed to yield sustainable long-term income. We engage constructively with all our stakeholders, working diligently to minimise our environmental impact and to promote positive economic and social outcomes in the communities where we operate. About the JV The JV was originally between Resolute and Legend with Altus superseding Legend upon completion of the Company's Plan of Arrangement ("PoA") with Legend that occurred in January 2018. Legend and Resolute entered the JV on 6th May 2015 which provides Resolute with the option to earn a 70% interest in the Project by funding US$3M in exploration and by completing a feasibility study within four years. After the first stage, Altus has the option to co-fund its 30% interest on a pro rata basis, or exchange its interest for a 2% Net Smelter Return royalty. The Deed provides for a variation of the terms of the JV, such that the first stage period will be extended by two years to end on 6th May 2021, as well as certain administrative elements required after the completion of the PoA. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release contain forward-looking information. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. Such factors include without limitation the completion of planned expenditures, the ability to complete exploration programmes on schedule and the success of exploration programmes. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking information, which speak only as of the date of this news release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. All amounts expressed in US dollars unless otherwise indicated TORONTO, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Barrick Gold Corporations (Barricks) first quarterly results since its merger with Randgold Resources Limited (Randgold) show solid results across the board from the new group, which also reported rapid progress with the integration of the two businesses as well as with the implementation of key strategic initiatives. Financial and Operating Highlights Financial Results Q1 2019 Q4 2018 Q1 2018 Realized gold price2,3 ($ per ounce) 1,307 1,223 1,332 Net earnings (loss) ($ millions) 111 (1,197 ) 158 Adjusted net earnings1 ($ millions) 184 69 170 Net cash provided by operating activities ($ millions) 520 411 507 Free cash flow4 ($ millions) 146 37 181 Net earnings (loss) per share ($) 0.06 (1.02 ) 0.14 Adjusted net earnings per share1 ($) 0.11 0.06 0.15 Total Attributable Capital Expenditures5 ($ millions) 361 368 320 Operating Results Q1 2019 Q4 2018 Q1 2018 Gold Production (000s of ounces) 1,367 1,262 1,049 Cost of sales6 (Barrick's share) ($ per ounce) 947 980 878 Total cash costs7 ($ per ounce) 631 588 573 All-in sustaining costs7 ($ per ounce) 825 788 804 Copper Production (millions of pounds) 106 109 85 Cost of sales6 (Barrick's share) ($ per pound) 2.21 2.85 2.07 C1 cash costs8 ($ per pound) 1.66 1.98 1.88 All-in sustaining costs8 ($ per pound) 2.46 2.95 2.61 Key Performance Indicators Integration and strategic initiatives on track across the group following Barrick-Randgold merger Nevada Joint Venture agreement signed and implementation expected by second quarter-end Group gold production up 8% quarter on quarter and in line with guidance Net cash provided by operating activities up 27% quarter on quarter Net earnings per share increases 106% quarter on quarter to $0.06 Adjusted net earnings per share 1 up 83% quarter on quarter to $0.11 up 83% quarter on quarter to $0.11 Copper operations deliver significant improvements Debt, net of cash down 12% quarter on quarter to $3.65 billion Nevada performs ahead of plan as the Cortez Hills open pit ramps down Veladero posts encouraging operational improvements Pueblo Viejo makes progress with expansion project and benefits from operational efficiencies African operations perform well as Kibali makes a good start to the year Sustainability core to group as team effectiveness workshops are rolled out Greenfields and brownfields exploration make good progress Key growth projects on track Barrick declares $0.04 quarterly dividend per share, up from Q1 2018 While quarter on quarter comparisons are skewed by the merger, group gold production was up 8% in line with guidance, net cash from the operations rose by 27%, net earnings per share increased by 106% to $0.06, adjusted net earnings per share1 increased by 83% to $0.11, and debt, net of cash was down 12% to $3.65 billion. A dividend of $0.04 per share was declared in respect of the first quarter of 2019. President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow said the key operations had all performed on plan and within guidance. Nevada exceeded plan as the Cortez Hills open pit ramps down, Veladero posted encouraging improvements and Pueblo Viejo progressed its expansion project and benefited from operational efficiencies. Led by Kibali, the African operations made a good start to the year and the copper operations delivered significant improvements. Key growth projects were on track and greenfields and brownfields exploration were augmenting reserves and identifying new opportunities. We have gone a long way towards integrating the organizations, streamlining the processes and ensuring that all the sites have the geological, operational and technical capability to meet their business objectives, Bristow said. Were also well advanced in establishing our new joint venture with Newmont, which has been named Nevada Gold Mines. The organizational structures are being finalized and were working together with Newmont to realize the synergies and cost reduction opportunities offered by the joint venture, which is scheduled for completion by the end of the second quarter. Bristow said the assets that did not pass Barricks strategic filters had been identified and once optimized would be brought to account in a way that would recognize the importance to the remaining stakeholders with the objective of being well advanced by mid-2020. Management was also dealing with some legacy challenges, including the long stand-off between Acacia and the Tanzanian government. Given our solid operational performance for the first quarter, Barrick is on track to deliver against its plans for the year. Considering the shortage of good assets and the industry's underinvestment in its own future we believe we are well positioned as the industry's value leader. Barrick stands apart from the rest of the industry on four counts: the quality of our assets; our significant potential for portfolio optimization; the very real synergies that we expect to be delivered by Nevada Gold Mines; and our superior exploration and pipeline of development efforts, Bristow said. This quarter has seen a great start for our first year as the 'new and improved' Barrick and I am confident that we are well on the way to achieving our strategic objective of becoming the worlds most valued gold mining business. It is our commitment to get there by finding, developing, owning and operating the best assets in our industry, with the best people, to deliver stand out returns for our owners and partners. Conference Call and Webcast Please join us for a conference call and webcast today at 11:00 EDT/16:00 BST to discuss the results. US and Canada, 1-800-319-4610 UK, 0808 101 2791 International, +1 416 915-3239 Webcast The event will be available for replay online or by telephone at 1-855-669-9658 (US and Canada) and +1 604 674-8052 (international), access code 3107. Q1 DELIVERS A NEW BARRICK MADE FIT FOR PURPOSE Since Barrick and Randgold were formally united on the first working day of this year, new management has moved swiftly to engineer a business capable of achieving its creators vision of being the worlds most valued gold company. The process started well before the deal was consummated, with teams from both sides sitting down together to define new Barricks goals and plot the best routes to achieving them. They emerged from these meetings with a clear strategy and action plans, as well as a shared vision of a business with a leaner management structure and a more agile, flexible management style. Getting the right people in the right places was our first priority, says President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow. We started with a new executive leadership team of people with the right skills and attitude at the corporate level. Supported by a slimmed down technical, financial, commercial, communication and administration team, they now exercise full oversight of all the operations. This process was duplicated in each of Barricks three geographical regions, where senior executive teams have been installed, in line with a new policy of moving people, skills and decision-making out of the corporate office and into the operations. To make sure everyone is focused on the new expected outcomes and their responsibilities, we have held strategy reviews and team effectiveness exercises throughout the organization, Bristow says. Weve also made sure that each site has the geological, operational and technical abilities to meet our business objectives and have introduced the Randgold system of parallel workstreams that are integrated horizontally for optimal efficiency. At the same time, we are upgrading and integrating the digital and information systems throughout the organization to provide managers with real-time data for planning and decision-making. The corporate structure has been streamlined with the Toronto office now occupying a single floor with approximately 70 people. The process of refining and rationalizing the structure of the business is continuing at the site offices. Its important to note that this is not a cost-cutting exercise. Its been designed to ensure that the best people are in the right places, Bristow says. With Barrick now looking and acting like the modern gold business we envisaged, the merger is delivering all that we expected from it. With our house in order, we can now start looking at the abundance of opportunities that are within our grasp. Nevada is the base of Barricks business and its wealth of possibilities will be expanded by the creation of the joint venture there with Newmont Goldcorp. But Barrick is also looking at other prospects to the north and into Canada, Bristow said. Africa is a high-risk, high-reward destination which holds two of Barricks Tier One9 gold mines Kibali and Loulo-Gounkoto and the promise of more to come, but those assets which do not fit the portfolio profile are likely to be divested. The most exciting growth opportunities are in Latin America, where the expansion of Pueblo Viejo is expected to maintain the mines Tier One status for years to come. There is also the potential to work on adding life and lifting efficiencies at Veladero as well as rebuilding our exploration capabilities across Chile, Argentina and Peru as we address some of the significant legacy challenges we face. And then there is Porgera in Papua New Guinea where we are in the process of renewing the mining license and which offers Tier One potential. The new Barrick is off to a strong start but there is a long road ahead of us and much still to be done to achieve our goal of becoming the most valued gold company by having the best people, employing the best skills, systems and structures, to extract sustainable returns for our owners and partners from the best assets, Bristow says. STRONG NEW SUSTAINABILITY DRIVE Sustainability, a core component of the management philosophy of both Barrick and Randgold, has been given an even higher priority by the merged business. One of the first appointments post-merger was that of Grant Beringer in the new position of Group Sustainability Executive. At the same time an Environmental, Social and Health and Safety Oversight Committee (chaired by the President and CEO) was established to monitor, review and update sustainability policies and practices throughout the organization. The energetic new sustainability team has embarked on an extensive stakeholder engagement exercise designed to understand the issues and devise mutually-acceptable solutions. Site-level leadership has been involved in this process and sustainability is now a key reporting line on Barricks weekly Executive Committee call as well as a dedicated agenda item at the monthly management and quarterly Board meetings. At the heart of Barricks sustainability vision is a commitment to contribute to the social and economic development of our host countries and communities. Last year, the combined organization generated more than $8.2 billion in economic value across 16 countries through payments to governments, employees and suppliers, and through community investments, Beringer says. While the two companies achieved much, we acknowledge that Barrick still faces significant legacy issues relating to community and tailings disposal issues at Porgera, litigation and environmental challenges relating to Pascua-Lama and a checkered environmental past at Veladero, but we are exploring all options to manage and mitigate these risks. Adds President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow: We are pledged to deliver long-term benefits to our host countries and communities through open and ongoing stakeholder engagement and a commitment to genuine partnership. GEOLOGY: MININGS BEDROCK Geology is the starting point of all mining ventures, argues Barrick Mineral Resource Management and Evaluation Executive, Rod Quick; and it also plays an integral part at every stage of a projects life, from discovery through evaluation and development to mine design and operation. While Barrick was focused on driving down debt, its business model was focused on free cash flow. With the debt situation now stabilized, that model is now driven by the optimal exploitation of the orebodies. This shift in strategy has been signaled by the appointment of mineral resource managers at all the mines. It all starts with an understanding of the mineralization controls of each orebody and using this information in the geological modelling to project the grade, geometry and geotechnical characteristics of the orebody. After all, this is our revenue base, and it is essential that we know it well, he says. Using this knowledge, the geologists can work with their mining and metallurgical colleagues to develop a mining plan that will extract the ore with minimum dilution and process it with the smallest possible recovery loss. Mining is a consumptive industry, and replacing depleted ounces requires a deep understanding of the orebodies and the ability to replace the gold we mine through brownfield extensions and new discoveries. The new approach includes reconciliation programs between the orebody models and what we actually extract as well as operational and financial forecasts. There are also grade control programs, which allow geologists and mining engineers to model the geology, geotechnical and metallurgical characteristics ahead of the mining areas. This allows us to optimally design the ore extraction and develop reliable metallurgical models to optimize ore processing. Geology is not a discrete discipline. It needs to be integrated into a multi-skilled team making a contribution throughout the life of a mine, for that operation to be sustainably profitable, says Quick. EXPLORATION SUCCESSES BOOST INVENTORY Barricks exploration programs have two goals: to replace the gold it depletes by mining; and to discover its next Tier One9 mine. In Nevada the combination of the Fourmile discovery, which is expected to eventually be consolidated with the Goldrush project, is shaping up as the portfolios next mega-mine. Since the high-grade maiden resource was reported, widely-spaced drilling beyond the deposit footprint has intersected high grades in multiple directions, signaling significant growth potential. Drilling resumed in January and funding may be increased to continue scoping extensions. In the meantime, exploration and project teams are working together to maximize the value from a consolidated and optimized Fourmile-Goldrush. Fourmile and Goldrush are classic Carlin-style orebodies of the kind that has made this region one of the worlds most prospective. Another is Turquoise Ridge, adjacent to the Twin Creeks mine and included in the Nevada joint venture, which we anticipate is also on the way to becoming a Tier One9 asset. We feel strongly that Nevada still holds enormous potential for more major discoveries, says Rob Krcmarov, Executive Vice President, Exploration and Growth. Over in Africa, the extensions to the recently-discovered 11000 lode at Kibali, and the increasing continuity and confirmation of the down-plunge extensions to the geology and mineralization at Gorumbwa, is not only supporting Kibalis high production profile but is also expected to extend the life of the mine. Like Nevada, the Democratic Republic of Congo is mineral-rich but largely unexplored, and it too has a great potential for new mines. In addition to the gold-prolific West African Birimian and its counterpart, the Guyana Shield in Latin America along with our presence and growing exploration focus along the Andean trend in Chile, Argentina and Peru. Barrick and Randgold have a history of building shareholder value through discovery and development of world-class gold mines. The combination under Barrick brings two industry-leading exploration teams together and given our presence in some of the best gold belts in the world we are uniquely positioned to continue that legacy, says President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow. KIBALI MAKES STRONG START TO 2019 Kibali, ranked among the worlds Top 10 gold mines, has made a strong start to 2019 after setting a new production record last year, says Barrick President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow. Barrick operates Kibali, which is a joint venture with AngloGold Ashanti and the Congolese parastatal SOKIMO. Speaking at a briefing for local media and stakeholders, Bristow said Kibali was continuing to break records en route to its 2019 guidance of 750,000 ounces, the latest being the 285,000 tonnes of ore hoisted through the shaft in March. Throughput and recovery remained at or above nameplate levels and Kibali continued to add new technology to its autonomous mining operation, a field in which it is already an industry leader. With Kibali producing at this rate, we are intensifying our focus on reserve and resource replacement. Drilling is targeting the extensions of the KCD and Gorumbwa complex of orebodies, along the 30km gold bearing KZ structure, and the western extensions of the Kibali Graben. This has confirmed that there is a substantial potential for replenishing the reserve and resource base, Bristow said. Kibali is one of five Tier One9 gold mines in the Barrick stable and it is an outstanding example of Barricks commitment to partnerships. This is demonstrated by the constructive relationship between its three shareholders as well as by its continuing investment in the local economy. During the past quarter the mine spent $38 million with Congolese contractors and the recently-initiated Durba road upgrade project is being undertaken by 100% Congolese owned and operated contractors which Kibali developed. Bristow noted that, at their meeting in Washington DC earlier this month, the Congolese president, his excellency Felix Tshisekedi, and Barrick Executive Chairman John Thornton had confirmed their joint commitment to a partnership designed to develop the countrys gold mining industry. Follow-up meetings held in-country between President Felix Tshisekedi, Bristow and their respective executive teams focused on partnership initiatives and strategies to support the continued growth of the mining industry for the benefit of investors, the Congolese nation and other stakeholders. The DRC government is one of our most important partners and we look forward to working with them to create an economic climate capable of attracting large and long-term investments such as the one we made in Kibali. This requires a mining code which equitably balances the interests of the State and the capital providers and allows both to participate fairly in the value creation that the mining industry offers. We are and will continue to engage with the government and administration on the issues around the code introduced last year, he said. APPENDIX 1 2019 Operating and Capital Expenditure Guidance GOLD PRODUCTION AND COSTS Production Cost of sales Cash costs All-in sustaining costs (000s ounces) ($ per ounce) ($ per ounce) ($ per ounce) Cortez 850 - 920 810 - 850 530 - 580 750 - 800 Goldstrike10 900 - 980 1,020 - 1,080 740 - 790 950 - 990 Turquoise Ridge (75%) 270 - 310 655 - 705 550 - 600 680 - 730 Pueblo Viejo (60%) 550 - 600 780 - 830 465 - 510 610 - 650 Loulo-Gounkoto (80%) 520 - 570 880 - 930 575 - 625 810 - 850 Kibali (45%) 330 - 350 1,150 - 1,200 555 - 605 670 - 730 Kalgoorlie (50%) 280 - 300 920 - 970 740 - 790 920 - 960 Tongon (89.7%) 250 - 270 1,300 - 1,350 710 - 760 780 - 820 Porgera (47.5%) 240 - 260 980 - 1,030 800 - 850 985 - 1,025 Veladero (50%) 230 - 250 1,250 - 1,350 770 - 820 1,150 - 1,250 Hemlo 200 - 220 890 - 940 765 - 815 1,100 - 1,200 Acacia (63.9%) 320 - 350 920 - 970 665 - 710 860 - 920 Other Sites11 190 - 250 1,155 - 1,240 895 - 945 1,055 - 1,115 Total Gold12,13 5,100 - 5,600 910 - 970 650 - 700 870 - 920 COPPER PRODUCTION AND COSTS Production Cost of sales C1 cash costs All-in sustaining costs (millions of pounds) ($ per pound) ($ per pound) ($ per pound) Lumwana 210 - 240 2.25 - 2.50 1.80 - 2.10 2.75 - 3.15 Zaldivar (50%) 120 - 130 2.40 - 2.70 1.65 - 1.85 2.00 - 2.20 Jabal Sayid (50%) 45 - 60 2.00 - 2.30 1.60 - 1.90 1.60 - 1.90 Total Copper13 375 - 430 2.30 - 2.70 1.70 - 2.00 2.40 - 2.90 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES ($ millions) Mine site sustaining 1,100 - 1,300 Project 300 - 400 Total Attributable Capital Expenditures5 1,400 - 1,700 APPENDIX 2 2019 Outlook Assumptions and Economic Sensitivity Analysis14 2019 Guidance Assumption Hypothetical Change Impact on EBITDA (millions) Impact on AISC7,8 Gold revenue, net of royalties $1,250/oz +/- $100/oz +/- $385 +/- $2/oz Copper revenue, net of royalties $2.75/lb +/- $0.50/lb +/- $135 +/- $0.03/lb Gold all-in sustaining costs7 WTI crude oil price15 $65/bbl +/- $10/bbl +/- $30 +/- $6/oz Australian dollar exchange rate 0.75:1 +/- 10% +/- $19 +/- $4/oz Argentine peso exchange rate 46:1 +/- 10% +/- $5 +/- $1/oz Canadian dollar exchange rate 1.30:1 +/- 10% +/- $21 +/- $4/oz European euro exchange rate 1.15:1 +/- 10% +/- $2 +/- $0/oz Copper all-in sustaining costs8 WTI crude oil price $65/bbl +/- $10/bbl +/- $5 +/- $0.01/lb Chilean peso exchange rate 650:1 +/- 10% +/- $8 +/- $0.02/lb TECHNICAL INFORMATION The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Steven Yopps, MMSA, Director - Metallurgy, North America; Chad Yuhasz, P.Geo, Mineral Resource Manager, Latin America and Australia Pacific; Simon Bottoms, CGeol, MGeol, FGS, MAusIMM, Mineral Resources Manager, Africa and Middle East; Rodney Quick, MSc, Pr. Sci.Nat, Mineral Resource Management and Evaluation Executive; John Steele, CIM, Metallurgy, Engineering and Capital Projects Executive; and Rob Krcmarov, FAusIMM, Executive Vice President, Exploration and Growth each a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. ENDNOTES Endnote 1 Adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per share are non-GAAP financial performance measures. Adjusted net earnings excludes the following from net earnings: certain impairment charges (reversals) related to intangibles, goodwill, property, plant and equipment, and investments; gains (losses) and other one-time costs relating to acquisitions or dispositions; foreign currency translation gains (losses); significant tax adjustments not related to current period earnings; unrealized gains (losses) on non-hedge derivative instruments; and the tax effect and non-controlling interest of these items. The Company uses this measure internally to evaluate our underlying operating performance for the reporting periods presented and to assist with the planning and forecasting of future operating results. Barrick believes that adjusted net earnings is a useful measure of our performance because these adjusting items do not reflect the underlying operating performance of our core mining business and are not necessarily indicative of future operating results. Adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per share are intended to provide additional information only and do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures of performance presented by other companies. They should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Net Earnings to Net Earnings per Share, Adjusted Net Earnings and Adjusted Net Earnings per Share ($ millions, except per share amounts in dollars) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Net earnings (loss) attributable to equity holders of the Company $ 111 $ (1,197 ) $ 158 Impairment charges related to intangibles, goodwill, property, plant and equipment, and investmentsa 3 408 2 Acquisition/disposition (gains) lossesb (19 ) (46 ) Foreign currency translation losses (gains) 22 (16 ) 15 Significant tax adjustmentsc 8 719 46 Other expense (income) adjustmentsd 47 261 (6 ) Unrealized (gains) losses on non-hedge derivative instruments (1 ) 1 Tax effect and non-controlling interest (6 ) (88 ) 1 Adjusted net earnings $ 184 $ 69 $ 170 Net earnings per sharee 0.06 (1.02 ) 0.14 Adjusted net earnings per sharee 0.11 0.06 0.15 Net impairment charges for the three months ended December 31, 2018 primarily relate to non-current asset and goodwill impairments at Veladero. Disposition gains primarily relate to the gain on the sale of a non-core royalty asset at Acacia for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Significant tax adjustments for the three months ended December 31, 2018 primarily relate to the de-recognition of our Canadian and Peruvian deferred tax assets. Other expense adjustments for the three months ended March 31, 2019 primarily relate to severance costs as a result of the implementation of a number of organizational reductions and the impact of changes in the discount rate assumptions on our closed mine rehabilitation provision. For the three months ended December 31, 2018, other expense adjustments mainly relate to the inventory impairment charge at Lagunas Norte, the write-off of a Western Australia long-term stamp duty receivable and costs associated with the merger with Randgold. Calculated using weighted average number of shares outstanding under the basic method of earnings per share. Endnote 2 Includes Acacia on a 63.9% basis, Pueblo Viejo on a 60% basis, South Arturo on a 60% basis and Veladero on a 50% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales. Also includes Loulo-Gounkoto on an 80% basis, Kibali on a 45% basis, Tongon on an 89.7% basis and Morila on an 40% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales, commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the merger with Randgold. Endnote 3 Realized price is a non-GAAP financial measure which excludes from sales: unrealized gains and losses on non-hedge derivative contracts; unrealized mark-to-market gains and losses on provisional pricing from copper and gold sales contracts; sales attributable to ore purchase arrangements; treatment and refining charges; and export duties. This measure is intended to enable Management to better understand the price realized in each reporting period for gold and copper sales because unrealized mark-to-market values of non-hedge gold and copper derivatives are subject to change each period due to changes in market factors such as market and forward gold and copper prices, so that prices ultimately realized may differ from those recorded. The exclusion of such unrealized mark-to-market gains and losses from the presentation of this performance measure enables investors to understand performance based on the realized proceeds of selling gold and copper production. The realized price measure is intended to provide additional information and does not have any standardized definition under IFRS and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Sales to Realized Price per ounce/pound ($ millions, except per ounce/pound information in dollars) Gold Copper For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Sales $ 1,906 $ 1,734 $ 1,643 $ 163 $ 144 $ 111 Sales applicable to non-controlling interests (224 ) (197 ) (187 ) Sales applicable to equity method investmentsa,b 129 121 116 113 Realized non-hedge gold/copper derivative (losses) gains Sales applicable to Pierinac (26 ) (28 ) (29 ) Treatment and refinement charges 31 41 31 Export duties (4 ) Revenues as adjusted $ 1,785 $ 1,505 $ 1,427 $ 315 $ 301 $ 255 Ounces/pounds sold (000s ounces/millions pounds)c 1,365 1,232 1,071 103 109 85 Realized gold/copper price per ounce/poundd $ 1,307 $ 1,223 $ 1,332 $ 3.07 $ 2.76 $ 2.98 Represents sales of $117 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $nil and March 31, 2018: $nil) applicable to our 45% equity method investment in Kibali and $12 million (December 31, 2018: $nil and March 31, 2018: $nil) applicable to our 40% equity method investment in Morila for gold. Represents sales of $81 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $84 million and March 31, 2018: $72 million) applicable to our 50% equity method investment in Zaldivar and $44 million (December 31, 2018: $37 million and March 31, 2018: $41 million) applicable to our 50% equity method investment in Jabal Sayid for copper. Sales applicable to equity method investments are net of treatment and refinement charges. Figures exclude Pierina from the calculation of realized price per ounce as the mine is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Realized price per ounce/pound may not calculate based on amounts presented in this table due to rounding. Endnote 4 Free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial performance measure which deducts capital expenditures from net cash provided by operating activities. Barrick believes this to be a useful indicator of our ability to operate without reliance on additional borrowing or usage of existing cash. Free cash flow is intended to provide additional information only and does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures of performance presented by other companies. Free cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on this non-GAAP measure are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Free Cash Flow ($ millions) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 520 $ 411 $ 507 Capital expenditures (374 ) (374 ) (326 ) Free cash flow $ 146 $ 37 $ 181 Endnote 5 These amounts are presented on the same basis as our guidance and include our 60% share of Pueblo Viejo and South Arturo, our 63.9% share of Acacia and our 50% share of Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid. Also includes our 80% share of Loulo-Gounkoto, 89.7% share of Tongon, 45% share of Kibali and 40% share of Morila, commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger. Endnote 6 Cost of sales applicable to gold per ounce is calculated using cost of sales applicable to gold on an attributable basis (removing the non-controlling interest of 40% Pueblo Viejo, 36.1% Acacia and 40% South Arturo from cost of sales), divided by attributable gold ounces sold. The non-controlling interest of 20% Loulo-Gounkoto and 10.3% of Tongon is also removed from cost of sales and our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Kibali and Morila) is included commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger. Cost of sales applicable to copper per pound is calculated using cost of sales applicable to copper including our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid), divided by consolidated copper pounds sold (including our proportionate share of copper pounds sold from our equity method investments). Endnote 7 Total cash costs per ounce and All-in sustaining costs per ounce are non-GAAP financial performance measures. Total cash costs per ounce starts with cost of sales applicable to gold production, but excludes the impact of depreciation, the non-controlling interest of cost of sales, and includes by-product credits. All-in sustaining costs per ounce begin with Total cash costs per ounce and add further costs which reflect the additional costs of operating a mine, primarily sustaining capital expenditures, sustaining leases, general & administrative costs, minesite exploration and evaluation costs, and reclamation cost accretion and amortization. Barrick believes that the use of total cash costs per ounce and all-in sustaining costs per ounce will assist investors, analysts and other stakeholders in understanding the costs associated with producing gold, understanding the economics of gold mining, assessing our operating performance and also our ability to generate free cash flow from current operations and to generate free cash flow on an overall Company basis. Total cash costs per ounce and All-in sustaining costs per ounce are intended to provide additional information only and do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS. Although a standardized definition of all-in sustaining costs was published in 2013 by the World Gold Council (a market development organization for the gold industry comprised of and funded by 27 gold mining companies from around the world, including Barrick), it is not a regulatory organization, and other companies may calculate this measure differently. Starting in the first quarter of 2019, we have renamed "cash costs" to "total cash costs" when referring to our gold production. The calculation of total cash costs is identical to our previous calculation of cash costs with only a change in the naming convention of this non-GAAP measure. These measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Gold Cost of Sales to Total cash costs, All-in sustaining costs and All-in costs, including on a per ounce basis ($ millions, except per ounce information in dollars) For the three months ended Footnote March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Cost of sales applicable to gold production $ 1,350 $ 1,353 $ 1,046 Depreciation (384 ) (346 ) (298 ) Cash cost of sales applicable to equity method investments 62 By-product credits (24 ) (26 ) (36 ) Realized (gains) losses on hedge and non-hedge derivatives a 3 Non-recurring items b (20 ) (155 ) (7 ) Other c (20 ) (27 ) (21 ) Non-controlling interests d (101 ) (80 ) (72 ) Total cash costs $ 863 $ 722 $ 612 General & administrative costs 54 53 48 Minesite exploration and evaluation costs e 11 14 6 Minesite sustaining capital expenditures f 253 276 231 Sustaining leases 10 Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization (operating sites) g 14 18 19 Non-controlling interest, copper operations and other h (75 ) (118 ) (55 ) All-in sustaining costs $ 1,130 $ 965 $ 861 Project exploration and evaluation and project costs e 63 110 67 Community relations costs not related to current operations 1 2 1 Project capital expenditures f 120 127 100 Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization (non-operating sites) g 7 8 8 Non-controlling interest and copper operations h (3 ) (5 ) (5 ) All-in costs $ 1,318 $ 1,207 $ 1,032 Ounces sold - equity basis (000s ounces) i 1,365 1,232 1,071 Cost of sales per ounce j,k $ 947 $ 980 $ 878 Total cash costs per ounce k $ 631 $ 588 $ 573 Total cash costs per ounce (on a co-product basis) k,l $ 644 $ 602 $ 596 All-in sustaining costs per ounce k $ 825 $ 788 $ 804 All-in sustaining costs per ounce (on a co-product basis) k,l $ 838 $ 802 $ 827 All-in costs per ounce k $ 964 $ 985 $ 963 All-in costs per ounce (on a co-product basis) k,l $ 977 $ 999 $ 986 a. Realized (gains) losses on hedge and non-hedge derivatives Includes realized hedge losses of $nil for the three month period ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $2 million and March 31, 2018: $1 million), and realized non-hedge gains of $nil for the three month period ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: losses of $1 million and March 31, 2018: gains of $1 million, respectively). Refer to note 5 to the Financial Statements for further information. b. Non-recurring items Non-recurring items in 2019 relate to organizational restructuring. These costs are not indicative of our cost of production and have been excluded from the calculation of total cash costs. c. Other Other adjustments for the three month period ended March 31, 2019 include the removal of total cash costs and by-product credits associated with our Pierina mine, which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure, of $18 million (December 31, 2018: $27 million and March 31, 2018: $21 million). d. Non-controlling interests Non-controlling interests include non-controlling interests related to gold production of $152 million for the three month periods ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $114 million and March 31, 2018: $106 million). Non-controlling interests include Pueblo Viejo and Acacia. Starting January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger, non-controlling interests also include Loulo-Gounkoto and Tongon. Refer to note 5 to the Financial Statements for further information. e. Exploration and evaluation costs Exploration, evaluation and project expenses are presented as minesite sustaining if it supports current mine operations and project if it relates to future projects. Refer to page 49 of Barrick's first quarter MD&A. f. Capital expenditures Capital expenditures are related to our gold sites only and are presented on a 100% cash basis for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and on a 100% accrued basis for the three month periods ended December 31, 2018 and March 31, 2018. They are split between minesite sustaining and project capital expenditures. Project capital expenditures are distinct projects designed to increase the net present value of the mine and are not related to current production. Significant projects in the current year are stripping at Cortez Crossroads, the Goldrush exploration declines, the Deep South Expansion, and construction of the third shaft at Turquoise Ridge. Refer to page 48 of Barrick's first quarter MD&A. g. Rehabilitationaccretion and amortization Includes depreciation on the assets related to rehabilitation provisions of our gold operations and accretion on the rehabilitation provision of our gold operations, split between operating and non-operating sites. h. Non-controlling interest and copper operations Removes general & administrative costs related to non-controlling interests and copper based on a percentage allocation of revenue. Also removes exploration, evaluation and project expenses, rehabilitation costs and capital expenditures incurred by our copper sites and the non-controlling interest of our Acacia and Pueblo Viejo operating segments and South Arturo. Also removes the non-controlling interest of our Loulo-Gounkoto and Tongon operating segments commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger, and includes capital expenditures applicable to equity method investments. Figures remove the impact of Pierina. The impact is summarized as the following: ($ millions) For the three months ended Non-controlling interest, copper operations and other March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 General & administrative costs $ (10 ) $ (36 ) $ (7 ) Minesite exploration and evaluation expenses (1 ) (2 ) Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization (operating sites) (1 ) (2 ) (1 ) Minesite sustaining capital expenditures (63 ) (78 ) (47 ) All-in sustaining costs total $ (75 ) $ (118 ) $ (55 ) Project exploration and evaluation and project costs (2 ) (3 ) (3 ) Project capital expenditures (1 ) (2 ) (2 ) All-in costs total $ (3 ) $ (5 ) $ (5 ) i. Ounces sold - equity basis Figures remove the impact of Pierina which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. j. Cost of sales per ounce Figures remove the cost of sales impact of Pierina of $27 million for the three month periods ended March 31, 2019 (December 31, 2018: $32 million and March 31, 2018: $32 million),which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Cost of sales per ounce excludes non-controlling interest related to gold production. Cost of sales applicable to gold per ounce is calculated using cost of sales on an attributable basis (removing the non-controlling interest of 40% Pueblo Viejo, 36.1% Acacia and 40% South Arturo from cost of sales), divided by attributable gold ounces. The non-controlling interest of 20% Loulo-Gounkoto and 10.3% of Tongon is also removed from cost of sales and our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Kibali and Morila) is included commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the Merger. k. Per ounce figures Cost of sales per ounce, total cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs per ounce and all-in costs per ounce may not calculate based on amounts presented in this table due to rounding. l. Co-product costs per ounce Total cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs per ounce and all-in costs per ounce presented on a co-product basis removes the impact of by-product credits of our gold production (net of non-controlling interest) calculated as: ($ millions) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 By-product credits $ 24 $ 26 $ 36 Non-controlling interest (8 ) (10 ) (11 ) By-product credits (net of non-controlling interest) $ 16 $ 16 $ 25 Endnote 8 C1 cash costs per pound and All-in sustaining costs per pound are non-GAAP financial performance measures. C1 cash costs per pound is based on cost of sales but excludes the impact of depreciation and royalties and includes treatment and refinement charges. All-in sustaining costs per pound begins with C1 cash costs per pound and adds further costs which reflect the additional costs of operating a mine, primarily sustaining capital expenditures, general & administrative costs and royalties and production taxes. Barrick believes that the use of C1 cash costs per pound and all-in sustaining costs per pound will assist investors, analysts, and other stakeholders in understanding the costs associated with producing copper, understanding the economics of copper mining, assessing our operating performance, and also our ability to generate free cash flow from current operations and to generate free cash flow on an overall Company basis. C1 cash costs per pound and All-in sustaining costs per pound are intended to provide additional information only, do not have any standardized meaning under IFRS, and may not be comparable to similar measures of performance presented by other companies. These measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Further details on these non-GAAP measures are provided in the MD&A accompanying Barricks financial statements filed from time to time on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Reconciliation of Copper Cost of Sales to C1 cash costs and All-in sustaining costs, including on a per pound basis ($ millions, except per pound information in dollars) For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 March 31, 2018 Cost of sales $ 131 $ 210 $ 96 Depreciation/amortization (42 ) (84 ) (19 ) Treatment and refinement charges 31 41 31 Cash cost of sales applicable to equity method investments 66 78 63 Less: royalties and production taxesa (12 ) (15 ) (10 ) By-product credits (3 ) (2 ) (2 ) Other (11 ) C1 cash cost of sales $ 171 $ 217 $ 159 General & administrative costs 5 5 5 Rehabilitation - accretion and amortization 3 3 5 Royalties and production taxesa 12 15 10 Minesite exploration and evaluation costs 2 2 Minesite sustaining capital expenditures 59 67 42 Sustaining leases 1 Inventory write-downs 11 All-in sustaining costs $ 253 $ 320 $ 221 Pounds sold - consolidated basis (millions pounds) 103 109 85 Cost of sales per poundb,c $ 2.21 $ 2.85 $ 2.07 C1 cash cost per poundb $ 1.66 $ 1.98 $ 1.88 All-in sustaining costs per poundb $ 2.46 $ 2.95 $ 2.61 For the three month period ended March 31, 2019, royalties and production taxes include royalties of $12 million (December 31, 2018: $11 million and March 31, 2018: $9 million, respectively). Cost of sales per pound, C1 cash costs per pound and all-in sustaining costs per pound may not calculate based on amounts presented in this table due to rounding. Cost of sales applicable to copper per pound is calculated using cost of sales including our proportionate share of cost of sales attributable to equity method investments (Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid), divided by consolidated copper pounds (including our proportionate share of copper pounds from our equity method investments). Endnote 9 A Tier One Gold Asset is a mine with a stated life in excess of 10 years with 2017 production of at least 500,000 ounces of gold and 2017 total cash cost per ounce within the bottom half of Wood Mackenzies cost curve tools (excluding state-owned and privately-owned mines). For purposes of determining Tier One Gold Assets, total cash cost per ounce is based on data from Wood Mackenzie as of August 31, 2018, except in respect of Barricks mines where Barrick may rely on its internal data which is more current and reliable. The Wood Mackenzie calculation of total cash cost per ounce may not be identical to the manner in which Barrick calculates comparable measures. Total cash cost per ounce is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Total cash cost per ounce should not be considered by investors as an alternative to operating profit, net profit attributable to shareholders, or to other IFRS measures. Barrick believes that total cash cost per ounce is a useful indicator for investors and management of a mining companys performance as it provides an indication of a companys profitability and efficiency, the trends in cash costs as the companys operations mature, and a benchmark of performance to allow for comparison against other companies. Wood Mackenzie is an independent third party research and consultancy firm that provides data for, among others, the metals and mining industry. Wood Mackenzie does not have any affiliation to Barrick. Endnote 10 Includes our 60% share of South Arturo. Endnote 11 Other sites include Lagunas Norte, Golden Sunlight, Morila (40%) and excludes Pierina which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Endnote 12 Total gold cash costs and all-in sustaining costs per ounce include the impact of hedges and/or costs allocated to non-operating sites. Operating unit guidance ranges reflect expectations at each individual operating unit, and may not add up to the company-wide guidance range total. Guidance ranges exclude Pierina which is mining incidental ounces as it enters closure. Endnote 13 Includes corporate administration costs. Endnote 14 Reflects impact on the remaining nine months of 2019. Endnote 15 Due to our hedging activities, which are reflected in these sensitivities, we are partially protected against changes in these factors. Financial and Operating Highlights For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 % Change March 31, 2018 % Change Financial Results ($ millions) Revenues 2,093 1,904 10 % 1,790 17 % Cost of sales 1,490 1,577 (6 )% 1,152 29 % Net earnings (loss)a 111 (1,197 ) 109 % 158 (30 )% Adjusted net earningsb 184 69 167 % 170 8 % Adjusted EBITDAb 1,002 806 24 % 820 22 % Total capital expenditures - sustainingc 253 267 (5 )% 233 9 % Total project capital expendituresc 120 100 20 % 93 29 % Total consolidated capital expendituresc,d 374 374 0 % 326 15 % Net cash provided by operating activities 520 411 27 % 507 3 % Free cash flowb 146 37 295 % 181 (19 %) Per share data (dollars) Net earnings (loss) (basic and diluted) 0.06 (1.02 ) 106 % 0.14 (57 )% Adjusted net earnings (basic)b 0.11 0.06 83 % 0.15 (27 )% Weighted average diluted common shares (millions of shares) 1,746 1,168 49 % 1,167 50 % Operating Results Gold production (thousands of ounces)e 1,367 1,262 8 % 1,049 30 % Gold sold (thousands of ounces)e 1,365 1,232 11 % 1,071 27 % Per ounce data Market gold price ($/oz) 1,304 1,226 6 % 1,329 (2 )% Realized gold priceb,e ($/oz) 1,307 1,223 7 % 1,332 (2 )% Cost of sales (Barricks share)e,f ($/oz) 947 980 (3 )% 878 8 % Total cash costsb,e ($/oz) 631 588 7 % 573 10 % All-in sustaining costsb,e ($/oz) 825 788 5 % 804 3 % Copper production (millions of pounds)g 106 109 (3 )% 85 25 % Copper sold (millions of pounds)g 103 109 (6 )% 85 21 % Per pound data Market copper price ($/lb) 2.82 2.80 1 % 3.16 (11 )% Realized copper priceb,g ($/lb) 3.07 2.76 11 % 2.98 3 % Cost of sales (Barricks share)g,h ($/lb) 2.21 2.85 (22 )% 2.07 7 % C1 cash costsb,g ($/lb) 1.66 1.98 (16 )% 1.88 (12 )% All-in sustaining costsb,g ($/lb) 2.46 2.95 (17 )% 2.61 (6 )% As at March 31, 2019 As at December 31, 2018 % Change As at March 31, 2018 % Change Financial Position (millions) Debt (current and long-term) 5,807 5,738 1 % 6,401 (9 )% Cash and equivalents 2,153 1,571 37 % 2,384 (10 )% Debt, net of cash 3,654 4,167 (12 )% 4,017 (9 )% Net earnings (loss) represents net earnings (loss) attributable to the equity holders of the Company. Adjusted net earnings, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, adjusted net earnings per share, realized gold price, all-in sustaining costs, total cash costs, C1 cash costs and realized copper price are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For further information and a detailed reconciliation of each non-GAAP measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, please see pages 55 to 70 of our first quarter MD&A. Amounts presented on a consolidated cash basis. Project capital expenditures are included in our calculation of all-in costs, but not included in our calculation of all-in sustaining costs. Total consolidated capital expenditures also includes capitalized interest. Includes Acacia on a 63.9% basis, Pueblo Viejo on a 60% basis, South Arturo on a 60% basis, and Veladero on a 50% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales. Also includes Loulo-Gounkoto on an 80% basis, Kibali on a 45% basis, Tongon on an 89.7% basis and Morila on a 40% basis, which reflects our equity share of production and sales, commencing January 1, 2019, the effective date of the merger with Randgold. Cost of sales per ounce (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - gold on an attributable basis (excluding Pierina) divided by gold ounces sold. Amounts reflect production and sales from Jabal Sayid and Zaldivar on a 50% basis, which reflects our equity share of production, and Lumwana. Cost of sales per pound (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - copper plus our equity share of cost of sales attributable to Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid divided by copper pounds sold. Production and Cost Summary - Gold For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 % Change March 31, 2018 % Change Barrick Nevadaa Gold produced (000s oz) 572 694 (18)% 517 11% Cost of sales ($/oz) 780 793 (2)% 829 (6)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 542 501 8% 533 2% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 678 616 10% 694 (2)% Cortez Gold produced (000s oz) 262 360 (27)% 285 (8)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 682 675 1% 682 0% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 433 350 24% 363 19% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 506 424 19% 414 22% Goldstrikec Gold produced (000s oz) 233 260 (10)% 186 25% Cost of sales ($/oz) 947 952 (1)% 1,076 (12)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 671 656 2% 755 (11)% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 891 833 7% 1,094 (19)% Turquoise Ridge (75%) Gold produced (000s oz) 77 74 4% 46 67% Cost of sales ($/oz) 592 802 (26)% 720 (18)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 506 701 (28)% 601 (16)% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 592 798 (26)% 709 (17)% Pueblo Viejo (60%) Gold produced (000s oz) 148 166 (11)% 141 5% Cost of sales ($/oz) 696 686 1% 683 2% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 421 425 (1)% 409 3% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 543 559 (3)% 571 (5)% Loulo-Gounkoto (80%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 128 154 (17)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,052 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 684 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 840 Kibali (45%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 93 94 (1)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,202 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 573 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 673 Kalgoorlie (50%) Gold produced (000s oz) 55 58 (5)% 85 (35)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,064 1,022 4% 865 23% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 870 857 2% 690 26% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,185 1,054 12% 836 42% Tongon (89.7%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 61 72 (15)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,451 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 799 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 836 Porgera (47.5%) Gold produced (000s oz) 66 70 (6)% 40 65% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,031 733 41% 1,138 (9)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 854 786 9% 801 7% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 978 1,018 (4)% 1,111 (12)% Veladero (50%) Gold produced (000s oz) 70 77 (9)% 74 (5)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,195 1,352 (12)% 1,036 15% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 713 823 (13)% 576 24% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,100 1,648 (33)% 1,008 9% Hemlo Gold produced (000s oz) 55 52 6% 40 38% Cost of sales ($/oz) 906 1,083 (16)% 1,189 (24)% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 769 932 (17)% 1,095 (30)% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 915 1,311 (30)% 1,271 (28)% Acacia (63.9%) Gold produced (000s oz) 67 84 (20)% 77 (13)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,114 852 31% 941 18% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 850 651 31% 715 19% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,023 857 19% 976 5% Lagunas Norte Gold produced (000s oz) 35 50 (30)% 66 (47)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,304 4,186 (69)% 542 141% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 637 607 5% 330 93% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,018 796 28% 496 105% Golden Sunlight Gold produced (000s oz) 7 11 (36)% 9 (22)% Cost of sales ($/oz) 2,174 1,423 53% 1,484 46% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 1,974 1,430 38% 1,525 29% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 2,471 1,586 56% 1,658 49% Morila (40%)d Gold produced (000s oz) 10 8 25% Cost of sales ($/oz) 1,445 Total cash costs ($/oz)b 1,157 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 1,157 Total Consolidated Gold produced (000s oz)e 1,367 1,262 8% 1,049 30% Cost of sales ($/oz)f 947 980 (3)% 878 8% Total cash costs ($/oz)b 631 588 7% 573 10% All-in sustaining costs ($/oz)b 825 788 5% 804 3% Represents the combined results of Cortez, Goldstrike (including our 60% share of South Arturo), and starting with the first quarter of 2019 our 75% interest in Turquoise Ridge. These are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For further information and a detailed reconciliation of each non-GAAP measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, please see pages 55 to 70 of our first quarter MD&A. Includes production and sales from South Arturo on a 60% basis, which reflects our equity share. The results for the three months ended December 31, 2018 did not form a part of the Barrick consolidated results as these sites were acquired as a result of the Merger. As a result, operational statistics are presented for the three months ended December 31, 2018 for reference purposes only. Total consolidated gold production for the three months ended December 31, 2018 excludes gold production from the sites acquired as part of the Randgold merger on January 1, 2019. Cost of sales per ounce (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - gold on an attributable basis excluding Pierina divided by gold equity ounces sold. Production and Cost Summary - Copper For the three months ended March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 % Change March 31, 2018 % Change Lumwana Copper production (millions lbs) 61 65 (6 )% 48 27 % Cost of sales ($/lb) 2.16 3.22 (33 )% 2.02 7 % C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.67 2.12 (21 )% 2.00 (17 )% All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 2.79 3.26 (14 )% 2.73 2 % Zaldivar (50%) Copper production (millions lbs) 28 29 (3 )% 24 17 % Cost of sales ($/lb) 2.68 2.55 5 % 2.37 13 % C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.91 1.91 0 % 1.84 4 % All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 2.12 2.50 (15 )% 2.50 (15 )% Jabal Sayid (50%) Copper production (millions lbs) 17 15 13 % 13 31 % Cost of sales ($/lb) 1.55 1.70 (9 )% 1.79 (13 )% C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.10 1.48 (26 )% 1.55 (29 )% All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 1.30 2.04 (36 )% 1.97 (34 )% Total Copper Copper production (millions lbs) 106 109 (3 )% 85 25 % Cost of sales ($/lb)b 2.21 2.85 (22 )% 2.07 7 % C1 cash cash costs ($/lb)a 1.66 1.98 (16 )% 1.88 (12 )% All-in sustaining costs ($/lb)a 2.46 2.95 (17 )% 2.61 (6 )% These are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. For further information and a detailed reconciliation of each non-GAAP measure to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, please see pages 55 to 70 of our first quarter MD&A. Cost of sales per pound (Barricks share) is calculated as cost of sales - copper plus our equity share of cost of sales attributable to Zaldivar and Jabal Sayid divided by copper pounds sold. Consolidated Statements of Income Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars, except per share data) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenue (notes 5 and 6) $2,093 $1,790 Costs and expenses (income) Cost of sales (notes 5 and 7) 1,490 1,152 General and administrative expenses 54 48 Exploration, evaluation and project expenses 74 73 Impairment charges (notes 9B and 13) 3 2 Loss on currency translation 22 15 Closed mine rehabilitation 25 (9 ) Income from equity investees (note 12) (28 ) (16 ) Gain on non-hedge derivatives (1 ) (2 ) Other expense (note 9A) 27 1 Income before finance costs and income taxes $427 $526 Finance costs, net (120 ) (133 ) Income before income taxes $307 $393 Income tax expense (note 10) (167 ) (201 ) Net income $140 $192 Attributable to: Equity holders of Barrick Gold Corporation $111 $158 Non-controlling interests $29 $34 Earnings per share data attributable to the equity holders of Barrick Gold Corporation (note 8) Net income Basic $0.06 $0.14 Diluted $0.06 $0.14 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net income $140 $192 Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of taxes Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss: Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, net of tax $nil and ($3) 6 Currency translation adjustments, net of tax $nil and $nil (2 ) Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss: Net unrealized change on equity investments, net of tax $nil and $nil (3 ) (4 ) Net realized change on equity investments, net of tax $nil and $nil (1 ) Total other comprehensive (loss) income (6 ) 2 Total comprehensive income $134 $194 Attributable to: Equity holders of Barrick Gold Corporation $105 $160 Non-controlling interests $29 $34 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income $140 $192 Adjustments for the following items: Depreciation 435 325 Finance costs 127 138 Impairment charges (notes 9B and 13) 3 2 Income tax expense (note 10) 167 201 Gain on sale of non-current assets (46 ) Currency translation losses 22 15 Change in working capital (note 11) (244 ) (152 ) Other operating activities (note 11) (28 ) (88 ) Operating cash flows before interest and income taxes 622 587 Interest paid (28 ) (28 ) Income taxes paid (74 ) (52 ) Net cash provided by operating activities 520 507 INVESTING ACTIVITIES Property, plant and equipment Capital expenditures (note 5) (374 ) (326 ) Sales proceeds 3 47 Investment purchases (3 ) (1 ) Cash acquired in merger 751 Other investing activities (note 11) 45 (4 ) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities 422 (284 ) FINANCING ACTIVITIES Lease repayments (12 ) Debt repayments (16 ) (23 ) Dividends (333 ) (31 ) Funding from non-controlling interests 6 8 Disbursements to non-controlling interests (5 ) (26 ) Net cash used in financing activities (360 ) (72 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents (1 ) Net increase in cash and equivalents 582 150 Cash and equivalents at the beginning of period 1,571 2,234 Cash and equivalents at the end of period $2,153 $2,384 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Balance Sheets Barrick Gold Corporation (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) As at March 31, As at December 31, 2019 2018 ASSETS Current assets Cash and equivalents (note 14A) $2,153 $1,571 Accounts receivable 383 248 Inventories 1,966 1,852 Other current assets 372 307 Total current assets $4,874 $3,978 Non-current assets Equity in investees (note 12) 4,444 1,234 Property, plant and equipment 16,891 12,826 Goodwill 2,810 1,176 Intangible assets 227 227 Deferred income tax assets 251 259 Non-current portion of inventory 1,879 1,696 Other assets 1,253 1,235 Total assets $32,629 $22,631 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Current liabilities Accounts payable $1,213 $1,101 Debt 308 43 Current income tax liabilities 191 203 Other current liabilities 272 321 Total current liabilities $1,984 $1,668 Non-current liabilities Debt 5,499 5,695 Provisions 3,113 2,904 Deferred income tax liabilities 2,003 1,236 Other liabilities 1,728 1,743 Total liabilities $14,327 $13,246 Equity Capital stock (note 16) $28,792 $20,883 Deficit (13,351 ) (13,453 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (164 ) (158 ) Other 321 321 Total equity attributable to Barrick Gold Corporation shareholders $15,598 $7,593 Non-controlling interests 2,704 1,792 Total equity $18,302 $9,385 Contingencies and commitments (notes 5 and 17) Total liabilities and equity $32,629 $22,631 The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity Barrick Gold Corporation Attributable to equity holders of the company (in millions of United States dollars) (Unaudited) Common Shares (in thousands) Capital stock Retained deficit Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)1 Other2 Total equity attributable to shareholders Non- controlling interests Total equity At January 1, 2019 1,167,847 $20,883 ($13,453 ) ($158 ) $321 $7,593 $1,792 $9,385 Net income 111 111 29 140 Total other comprehensive loss (6 ) (6 ) (6 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) 111 (6 ) 105 29 134 Transactions with owners Dividends (3 ) (3 ) (3 ) Merger with Randgold Resources Limited 583,669 7,903 7,903 882 8,785 Funding from non-controlling interests 6 6 Other decrease in non-controlling interest (5 ) (5 ) Dividend reinvestment plan (note 16) 466 6 (6 ) Total transactions with owners 584,135 7,909 (9 ) 7,900 883 8,783 At March 31, 2019 1,751,982 $28,792 ($13,351 ) ($164 ) $321 $15,598 $2,704 $18,302 At December 31, 2017 1,166,577 $20,893 ($11,759 ) ($169 ) $321 $9,286 $1,781 $11,067 Impact of adopting IFRS 15 on January 1, 2018 64 64 64 At January 1, 2018 (restated) 1,166,577 $20,893 ($11,695 ) ($169 ) $321 $9,350 $1,781 $11,131 Net income 158 158 34 192 Total other comprehensive income 2 2 2 Total comprehensive income 158 2 160 34 194 Transactions with owners Dividends (31 ) (31 ) (31 ) Funding from non-controlling interests 8 8 Other decrease in non-controlling interests (36 ) (36 ) Dividend reinvestment plan 316 4 (4 ) Total transactions with owners 316 4 (35 ) (31 ) (28 ) (59 ) At March 31, 2018 1,166,893 $20,897 ($11,572 ) ($167 ) $321 $9,479 $1,787 $11,266 1 Includes cumulative translation losses at March 31, 2019: $84 million (March 31, 2018: $73 million). 2 Includes additional paid-in capital as at March 31, 2019: $283 million (December 31, 2018: $283 million; March 31, 2018: $283 million) and convertible borrowings - equity component as at March 31, 2019: $38 million (December 31, 2018: $38 million; March 31, 2018: $38 million). The notes to these unaudited condensed interim financial statements, which are contained in the First Quarter Report 2019 available on our website are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. Corporate Office Barrick Gold Corporation 161 Bay Street, Suite 3700 Toronto, Ontario M5J 2S1 Canada Telephone: +1 416 861-9911 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.barrick.com Shares Listed GOLD - The New York Stock Exchange ABX - The Toronto Stock Exchange Transfer Agents and Registrars AST Trust Company (Canada) P.O. Box 700, Postal Station B Montreal, Quebec H3B 3K3 or American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC 6201 15 Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11219 Telephone: 1-800-387-0825 Fax: 1-888-249-6189 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.astfinancial.com Enquiries President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow +1 647 205 7694 +44 788 071 1386 Senior Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer Graham Shuttleworth +44 1534 735 333 +44 779 771 1338 Investor and Media Relations Kathy du Plessis +44 20 7557 7738 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information Certain information contained or incorporated by reference in this press release, including any information as to our strategy, projects, plans, or future financial or operating performance, constitutes forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The words believe, expect, anticipate, plan, assume, intend, project, continue, budget, estimate, potential, may, will, can, should, could, would, and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, with respect to: our goal of being the worlds most valued gold company; our ability to meet our business objectives; investment and other opportunities that are available to us; our ability to deliver long-term benefits to host countries and communities; potential mineralization; potential consolidation of the Fourmile project and Goldrush and the value of such a consolidation; the development of potential Tier One gold assets to become Tier One gold assets, including Fourmile and Turquoise Ridge; expected extensions to the life of mine at Kibali and the potential to replenish reserves and resources as a result of recent discoveries; forward-looking production guidance in respect of Kibali; the potential for new mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo; and potential partnerships and engagement with the Congolese government. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions including material estimates and assumptions related to the factors set forth below that, while considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this press release in light of managements experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold, copper, or certain other commodities (such as silver, diesel fuel, natural gas, and electricity); the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; changes in mineral production performance, exploitation, and exploration successes; risks associated with projects in the early stages of evaluation, and for which additional engineering and other analysis is required to fully assess their impact; the duration of the Tanzanian ban on mineral concentrate exports; the ultimate terms of any definitive agreement between Acacia and the Government of Tanzania to resolve a dispute relating to the imposition of the concentrate export ban and allegations by the Government of Tanzania that Acacia under-declared the metal content of concentrate exports from Tanzania and related matters; whether Acacia will approve the terms of any final agreement reached between Barrick and the Government of Tanzania with respect to the dispute between Acacia and the Government of Tanzania; the ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Nevada joint venture (including estimated synergies and financial benefits) or implementing the business plan for the proposed Nevada joint venture, including as a result of a delay in its completion or difficulty in integrating the Nevada assets of the companies involved; the risk that the conditions to formation of the proposed Nevada joint venture will not be satisfied; the timing for closing of the Nevada joint venture; the benefits expected from recent transactions being realized, including the Randgold merger; diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; increased costs, delays, suspensions and technical challenges associated with the construction of capital projects; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities, including geotechnical challenges and disruptions in the maintenance or provision of required infrastructure and information technology systems; failure to comply with environmental and health and safety laws and regulations; timing of receipt of, or failure to comply with, necessary permits and approvals; uncertainty whether some or all of targeted investments and projects will meet the Companys capital allocation objectives and internal hurdle rate; the impact of global liquidity and credit availability on the timing of cash flows and the values of assets and liabilities based on projected future cash flows; adverse changes in our credit ratings; the impact of inflation; fluctuations in the currency markets; changes in U.S. dollar interest rates; risks arising from holding derivative instruments; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls or regulations and/ or changes in the administration of laws, policies and practices, expropriation or nationalization of property and political or economic developments in Canada, the United States, and other jurisdictions in which the Company or its affiliates do or may carry on business in the future; lack of certainty with respect to foreign legal systems, corruption and other factors that are inconsistent with the rule of law; damage to the Companys reputation due to the actual or perceived occurrence of any number of events, including negative publicity with respect to the Companys handling of environmental matters or dealings with community groups, whether true or not; the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Companys expectations; risks that exploration data may be incomplete and considerable additional work may be required to complete further evaluation, including but not limited to drilling, engineering and socioeconomic studies and investment; risk of loss due to acts of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; litigation and legal and administrative proceedings; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties, or over access to water, power and other required infrastructure; business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, the Company; our ability to successfully integrate acquisitions or complete divestitures; risks associated with working with partners in jointly controlled assets; employee relations including loss of key employees; increased costs and physical risks, including extreme weather events and resource shortages, related to climate change; availability and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labor. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion, copper cathode or gold or copper concentrate losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Form 40- F/Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a more detailed discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the risks that may affect Barricks ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. I am pleased that Ald. Brendan Reilly, 42nd, whose ward includes the area covered by the Pedway, has agreed to be the commissions chairman. In addition, last month, the City Council passed an ordinance granting the commissioners of the Department of Transportation and Fleet and Facility Management joint authority to execute leases, easements and other agreements like grants related to the operation of the Chicago Pedway. My hope is that the commissions first meeting will be in the next few months and that it will have the resources necessary to maximize the potential of the Pedway to benefit Chicagoans as well as visitors. May 8, 2019 / TheNewswire / Vancouver, Canada / Radius Gold Inc. (TSX-V: RDU) reports on progress of its ongoing diamond drill program at the Amalia Gold-Silver Project in Chihuahua, Mexico. The program is operated by Radius and funded by Pan American Silver under a joint venture agreement. Since Radius announced the completion of AMDD19-010 (see press release May 1, 2019) intersecting 44m grading 12.38 g/t Au and 309 g/t Ag with estimated true width of 34m, Radius has completed 3 further drill holes for which assays are pending. Drill hole AMDD19-011 was drilled approximately 100m south of AMDD19-010 and 50m below AMDD18-003 which returned 30m at 0.3g/t Au and 65 g/t Ag. Hole AMDD19-011 targeted the San Pedro structure and intersected 97m (242 to 339m) of varying intensity quartz veins, stockwork veining and diorite dykes. While the hole lacks the strong sulphide mineralization associated with AMDD19-010, the 30m wide zone in 011 exhibiting intense stockwork veining of banded chalcedonic quartz +- amethyst is similar to holes AMDD18-001 and 003 and although it may still be high in the system, indicates a strong consistent structure. Assay results for 011 are pending. Drill hole AMDD19-012 was drilled 100m south of AMDD19-011 (200m south of 010) targeting the San Pedro structure approximately 50m below AMDD18-008 which returned two intervals within a 33m wide mineralized zone (1m @ 2.28 g/t Au and 521 g/t Ag and 5m @ 0.59 g/t Au and 571 g/t Ag). The hole intersected a 53m (178 to 231m) zone of alteration including variable stockworks, silicification and hydrothermal breccias. Assay results for 012 are pending. Drill hole AMDD19-013 was drilled 100m north of AMDD19-010 targeting the San Pedro structure. The hole cut 17m (200 to 217m) of moderate to strong silicification, tectonic breccia with micro vein stockworks and traces of fine sulphides. Assay results for 013 are pending. Radius's initial drill program at Amalia (see press release December 4, 2018) tested the San Pedro structural zone with 5 diamond drill holes testing a 650m strike length of the San Pedro structure. Hole AMDD18-009, the deepest hole, intersected 26m at 7.08g/t Au and 517 g/t Ag, including 5m at 14.71 g/t Au and 1378 g/t Ag. The first hole of 2019, AMDD19-010, intersected the San Pedro structure approximately 65m down dip of the intercept in hole AMDD18-009 and intersected 44m grading 12.38 g/t Au and 309 g/t Ag including an 11m section grading 39.9 g/t Au and 323 g/t Ag. Estimated true width of the mineralized zone is 34m. At this time our understanding of the controls on the high grade gold and silver mineralization at Amalia is evolving. Drilling is currently on-going with 2000m of program budgeted. The holes presently underway will be more proximal to the high grade intercepts encountered in holes 009 and 010 in an effort to gain a better understanding of the geological control of these exceptional high grade shoots. Core photos and a brief description for drill holes will be posted on the Radius website as the holes are completed. Assay results will be press released as is customary in groups as the assays are received and quality control procedures allow. The Agreement Radius has granted to Pan American Silver Corp. the option to earn up to an initial 65% interest in the Amalia Project by making cash payments to Radius totaling US$1.5 million (of which US$100,000 has been received) and expending US$2 million on exploration over four years. Pan American may earn an additional 10% by advancing the property to preliminary-feasibility. Technical Information Bruce Smith, M.Sc. (Geology), a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists, is Radius's Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Smith participated in the reported drill program and prepared and approved the technical information contained in this news release. Quality Assurance and Quality Control Drilling is carried out using NQ and HQ size tooling. Drill core is cut in half using a rock saw with one half of the core then taken as a sample for analysis. Sample intervals are generally between 1m and 1.5m producing samples of between 2 to 9 kg. Half-core samples are delivered to the ALS Geochemistry laboratory facilities in Chihuahua, Mexico. The samples are fire assayed for Au and are analysed for Ag and multi-elements using method code ME-ICP61 following a four-acid digestion. Overlimits are analysed using an appropriate method. Radius routinely inserts multi-element geochemical standards and blanks into the drill core sample stream to monitor laboratory performance. Quality control samples submitted to ALS were returned within acceptable limits. Radius Gold Inc. Radius has a portfolio of projects located primarily in the United States and Mexico which it continues to advance, utilizing partnerships where appropriate in order to retain the Company's strong treasury. At the same time, management is seeking out additional investment and project acquisition opportunities across the globe. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Simon Ridgway President and CEO Symbol: TSXV-RDU Contact: Simon Ridgway 200 Burrard Street, Suite 650 Vancouver, BC V6C 3L6 Tel: 604-801-5432; Toll free 1-888-627-9378; Fax: 604-662-8829 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.radiusgold.com 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 which include, without limitation, statements about the results of exploration work and future plans at the Amalia Project; the Company's business strategy, plans and outlook; the merit of the Company's investments and properties; timelines; the future financial performance of the Company; expenditures; approvals and other matters. 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 results of exploration work and future plans at the Amalia Project; 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 exploration activities at the Amalia Project will advance as planned; that the Company's activities will be in accordance with its public statements and stated goals; that all required approvals will be obtained; that there will be no material adverse change affecting the Company or its investments or 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. VANCOUVER, May 8, 2019 /CNW/ - Mirasol Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: MRZ) (OTCPK: MRZLF) (the "Company" or "Mirasol") is pleased to announce the start of drilling at the Gorbea project and also to provide an update on exploration activities at its projects located in Chile and Argentina (figure 1). Mirasol's President and CEO, Norm Pitcher, stated: "We are pleased to provide this update on both our partnered projects with Newcrest and Hochschild, as well as Mirasol controlled properties. Newcrest recently commenced drilling at Gorbea, and although the drill program at Altazor has been delayed, we look forward to results from that program later in the year. Hochschild's surface exploration at Indra returned encouraging results and drilling is planned to commence in early June. Mirasol is well positioned this year to advance its key projects and expects a steady news flow with three active agreements in place, together with our own year-round exploration work". Short updates are provided below. Projects currently under option to joint venture agreements: Gorbea Project Atacama Puna Region, Chile : Funded and operated by Newcrest The Gorbea package is a high sulfidation epithermal (HSE) gold project that covers nine claim blocks totalling approximately 28,600 ha, which includes the Atlas and Titan projects, located in the prolifically mineralized Mio-Pliocene age mineral belt of Northern Chile. On January 28, 2019, the Company announced that it had signed an agreement with Newcrest Mining Limited ("Newcrest") under which Newcrest is committed to spending a minimum of US$4 million, US$3.5 million of which is allocated to the end of June 2019, and to completing a minimum of 3,000 m of drilling over an initial 18-month period. Subsequently Newcrest has worked diligently on upgrading and expanding the exploration camp and supplied all the required documentation to complete the initial drill program. Additional surface exploration work including CSMAT resistivity geophysics, geological mapping and geochemical sampling have been completed in order to define drill targets for this season's program and Newcrest is relogging the Atlas diamond drill core and reverse circulation chips previously drilled at the project. A 2,000m program in 4 drill holes has commenced on the Atlas project aimed at identifying controls on and continuity of the Au mineralization. In 2017, a best intersect of 114.1 m at 1.07 g/t Au and 1.78 g/t Ag, including 36 m at 2.49 g/t Au and 3.08 g/t Ag (hole 15) was drilled at Atlas. Mirasol will update its shareholders once results for this season's activities have been received and analysed. Indra Project Atacama Puna Region, Chile : Work funded by Hochschild and project operated by Mirasol The 20,378 ha Indra project is an intermediate sulfidation epithermal precious metal project located in the Paleocene Age Mineral Belt of Northern Chile. The project is undergoing its first detailed exploration field program under a partnership with Hochschild Mining plc ("Hochschild"). On the successful completion of a US$300,000 surface program on the project that included ground magnetic, geological mapping and rock chip geochemical sampling and also alteration vectoring, Hochschild has agreed to fund up to US$625,000 for a maiden drill program. Six reverse circulation drill holes are planned, and the program is expected to start early June 2019 running for approximately three weeks. Drilling is targeting the depth extension of the carbonate veins mapped and sampled at surface, with the objective of determining if the carbonate composition of the veins grades into silica at depth along with an associated increase in the Au and Ag values. Mirasol will update its shareholders once results have been received and analysed. Altazor Project Atacama Puna Region, Chile : Funded and operated by Newcrest Altazor is a HSE gold project also located in the Mio-Pliocene age mineral belt of Chile, covering approximately 33,230 ha of contiguous exploration claims. On November 12, 2018, Mirasol announced that Newcrest had exercised its option to enter the Farm-in stage of the Altazor Agreement, making a US$500,000 payment to Mirasol and presenting a US$3.3 million budget for this season's exploration program. As Newcrest is continuing to build its social licence in the area and technical knowledge of the district, it has informed Mirasol that it will defer drilling at Altazor to the next field season. Newcrest has completed additional surface exploration to refine drill targets and anticipates further exploring and drill testing this project at the earliest opportunity. Projects controlled by Mirasol: Sascha Marcelina Project Santa Cruz , Argentina: Following the consolidation of the Sascha Marcelina project (announced January 25, 2018), Mirasol initiated a US$150,000 surface exploration program on the property, that included drone acquisition of high-resolution base images, surface rock chip and soil geochemical sampling and detailed geological mapping of the Marcelina claims. Assay results have been received for an initial 82 rock chip samples including a maximum result of 3.15 g/t Au and 28 g/t Ag, with several other +1 g/t Au results along the length of the structural trend (figure 2). Additional follow-up detailed sampling along the length of the Estancia Trend (+2 km) has recently been completed and more than 400 samples from the project are currently being assayed. In parallel with its exploration program, Mirasol has initiated a search for a partner to drill test the project. Zeus Project Atacama Puna Region, Chile : The 18,600 sq km Zeus project lies within the Mio-Pliocene porphyry and high sulfidation epithermal belt of Northern Chile, located approximately 75 km southeast of Mirasol's Gorbea project and was under an option to joint venture agreement until early this year. The Zeus project consists of two primary prospects, Apollo and Artemisa that were the focus of a partner-funded exploration program during the 2017-2018 summer campaign. Exploration included a 36.3 km2 soil survey, prospect scale geological mapping, rock chip geochemical sampling (that notably returned up to 2.01 g/t Au and 17.45 g/t Ag in separate samples at Apollo), Corescan alteration analysis of soils and CSAMT resistivity geophysics. Mirasol's comprehensive analysis of results indicates that the geophysical anomalies, as outlined, are coincident with the alteration on surface and that they define attractive drill targets that remain to be tested (figure 3). Mirasol is actively seeking an exploration partnership to move forward exploration activities at the Zeus project. Additional technical information and results are available on our website (link). Claudia Project Santa Cruz , Argentina: The extensive Claudia property is located adjacent to the south of the Cerro Vanguardia Mine and was under an exploration agreement until earlier this year. During the 2018-2019 field program, Mirasol completed additional partner-funded surface exploration work on the property developing new drill targets that remain to be tested. A total of 249 rock chip samples were submitted for assays with results up to 7.99 g/t Au and 69 g/t Ag returned from the Curahue trend. In addition, two new IP geophysical surveys focused on the Curahue and Themisto prospects were completed extending existing survey coverage of the Claudia project to a total of 42.8 km2 of Gradient Array survey and 96.32 line km of PDP survey (figure 4). Mirasol believes targets remain to be drill tested on the Curahue, Thermisto and Rio Seco prospects and has initiated a search for a new partner for the Claudia project. Nico Project Santa Cruz , Argentina: As announced on March 4, 2019, the drilling program at Nico was terminated early following the receipt of results from 22 holes. Full results have now been received for the 27-hole program and can be viewed on the website (link). Two factors have contributed to disappointing results: i) the majority of vein or vein breccia structures were found to maintain the same width, or pinch out rapidly at depth instead of dilating; and ii) the surface samples are strongly oxidised and there seems to have been significant supergene enrichment episode of Ag and Au very near surface that does not continue to depth. At this time, Mirasol does not intend to do any further exploration on the Nico project. About Mirasol Resources Ltd Mirasol is a premier project generation company that is focused on the discovery and development of profitable precious metal and copper deposits, operating via a hybrid joint venture and self-funded drilling business model. Strategic joint ventures with precious metal producers have enabled Mirasol to maintain a tight share structure while advancing its priority projects that are focused in high-potential regions in Chile and Argentina. Mirasol employs an integrated generative and on-ground exploration approach, combining leading-edge technologies and experienced exploration geoscientists to maximize the potential for discovery. Mirasol is in a strong financial position and has a significant portfolio of exploration projects located within the Tertiary Age Mineral belts of Chile and the Jurassic age Au and Ag district of Santa Cruz Province Argentina. Qualified Person Statement: Mirasol's disclosure of technical or scientific information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Norm Pitcher, P.Geo. President and CEO for the Company. Mr. Pitcher serves as a Qualified Person under the definition of National Instrument 43-101. Forward Looking Statements: The information in this news release contains forward looking statements that are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in our forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause such differences include: changes in world commodity markets, equity markets, costs and supply of materials relevant to the mining industry, change in government and changes to regulations affecting the mining industry. Forward-looking statements in this release include statements regarding future exploration programs, operation plans, geological interpretations, mineral tenure issues and mineral recovery processes. Although we believe the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, results may vary, and we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Mirasol disclaims any obligations to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Silvercorp Metals Inc. (Silvercorp or the Company) (TSX / NYSE American: SVM) is pleased to report an updated National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report has been completed by RPMGlobal Asia Limited (RPM) on the Baiyunpu (BYP) gold-lead-zinc property in Hunan Province, Peoples Republic of China (the BYP NI 43-101 Technical Report). The BYP NI 43-101 Technical Report, with an effective date of April 30, 2019, will be filed under the Companys SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com within 45 days of this news release and on the Companys website at www.silvercorp.ca. The 2012 NI 43-101 report on the BYP property was based on data effective 2011. The current report is based on an additional 22 diamond drill holes and 1,099 metres of channel samples from tunnels. The results of the mineral resource estimates for the three physically distinct areas (gold, lead & zinc, and overlap) of the BYP project, as extracted from the BYP NI 43-101 Technical Report prepared by RPM, are presented in Tables 1 and 2. A 1.6 g/t Au cut-off grade was used for the gold area in the report based on the following parameters for the project: the previous underground mining operations, its processing cost, and 120% of the Consensus Price forecasts for the product element as at January 2019. Table 1 BYP Property - Mineral Resources for the Gold Area Area Classification Au Mineral Resource Quantity Au Grade Au Metal Au Metal Mt g/t koz Tonne Gold area Measured 2.8 3 269 8.37 Indicated 1.5 3.1 149 4.63 Measured & Indicated 4.3 3.1 418 13.00 Inferred 1.3 2.5 109 3.39 Table 2 BYP Property - Mineral Resources for the Lead and Zinc Area and the Overlap Area Area Classification Pb and Zn Mineral Resource Quantity Pb Grade Zn Grade Au Grade Pb Metal Zn Metal Au Metal Mt % % g/t kt kt koz Lead and Zinc area Indicated 4.0 0.7 2.3 - 28 89 - Inferred 6.1 1.4 3.1 - 83 187 - Overlap area Indicated 0.12 1.2 1.7 0.8 2 2 3 Inferred 0.03 2.7 3.5 1 1 1 1 Notes: CIM Definition standards (2014) were used for reporting the Mineral Resources. All data current to November 30, 2018. Silvercorp owns 70% equity interest of BYP Au-Pb-Zn Project. Pb Equivalent (PbEq) formulas used for equivalent grade is: PbEq= Pb + Zn*1.3069 + Au*2.1386. Mineral Resources are reported on a dry, in-situ basis. The overlapped areas were reported inside lead and zinc resource table based on PbEq cut-off. Mineral Resources are reported at a 1.6 g/t Au cut-off and 3% Pb equivalent cut-off. Cut-off parameters were selected based on an RPM internal cut-off calculator in which the gold price of USD$1,490 per ounce, Lead price of USD$2,280/t and Zinc price of USD$2,760/t, increased to 120% of prices from "Energy & Metals Consensus Forecasts", to reflect long term price movements were applied, and the mining cost of USD$35 per ton, processing cost of USD$13.3 per ton milled and processing recovery of 87.41% Au, 85.87% Pb and 92.71% Zn based on 2018 BYP development and utilization plan report were applied. No mining license depth limit was applied for the Mineral Resource reporting. No mining license depth limit was applied for the Mineral Resource reporting as the mining license update is still in progress. The Mineral Resources referred to above have not been subject to detailed economic analysis and therefore have not been demonstrated to have actual economic viability. It should be noted that for any SEC filings that the SEC does not recognize resources, only reserves and the resources stated above are classified as mineralized material with no value. Mineral Resources estimated for the gold area include a total of 4.3 million tonnes grading 3.1 g/t Au in the Measured and Indicated categories, containing approximately 418,000 ounces of gold. The previous mining operation between 2011 and 2014 produced 221,000 tonnes of gold mineralized material at an average recovered grade of 3.56 g/t Au for approximately 25,335 ounces of recovered gold. Mineralization is open along strike and down dip for both the gold and lead-zinc areas. Qualified Persons Mr. Guoliang Ma, P.Geo., Manager of Exploration and Resource of the Company, is the Qualified Person for Silvercorp as defined by NI 43-101 and has reviewed and given consent to the technical information contained in this news release. Mr. Bob Dennis, Geologist of RPM, Mr. Tony Cameron, Principal Mining Engineer of RPM, and Mr. Huang Song, consultant for RPM, are Qualified Persons for the purposes of NI 43-101 and have reviewed and consented to this news release and believe it fairly and accurately represents the information in the BYP NI 43-101 Technical Report that supports the disclosure. The reader is directed to the BYP NI 43-101 Technical Report on SEDAR or the Companys website for details of the estimate. About Silvercorp Silvercorp is a low-cost silver-producing Canadian mining company with multiple mines in China. The Companys vision is to deliver shareholder value by focusing on the acquisition of under developed projects with resource potential and the ability to grow organically. For more information, please visit our website at www.silvercorp.ca. For further information Lon Shaver Vice President Silvercorp Metals Inc. Phone: (604) 669-9397 Toll Free: 1(888) 224-1881 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Website: www.silvercorp.ca CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMER - FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain of the statements and information in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian provincial securities laws. Any statements or information that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as expects, is expected, anticipates, believes, plans, projects, estimates, assumes, intends, strategies, targets, goals, forecasts, objectives, budgets, schedules, potential or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things: the price of silver and other metals; the accuracy of mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates at the Companys Gaocheng property; the sufficiency of the Companys capital to finance the Companys operations; estimates of the Companys revenues and capital expenditures; estimated production from the Companys Gaocheng mine; timing of receipt of permits and regulatory approvals; availability of funds from production to finance the Companys operations; and access to and availability of funding for future construction, use of proceeds from any financing and development of the Companys properties. Forward-looking statements or information are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or information, including, without limitation, risks relating to: fluctuating commodity prices; calculation of resources, reserves and mineralization and precious and base metal recovery; interpretations and assumptions of mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates; exploration and development programs; feasibility and engineering reports; permits and licenses; title to properties; property interests; joint venture partners; acquisition of commercially mineable mineral rights; financing; recent market events and conditions; economic factors affecting the Company; timing, estimated amount, capital and operating expenditures and economic returns of future production; integration of future acquisitions into the Companys existing operations; competition; operations and political conditions; regulatory environment in China and Canada; environmental risks; foreign exchange rate fluctuations; insurance; risks and hazards of mining operations; key personnel; conflicts of interest; dependence on management; internal control over financial reporting as per the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; and bringing actions and enforcing judgments under U.S. securities laws. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Companys forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements or information are statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and actual achievements of the Company or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or information due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, without limitation, those referred to in the Companys Annual Information Form for the year ended March 31, 2018 under the heading Risk Factors. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, described or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Companys forward-looking statements and information are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management as of the date of this press release, and other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements and information if circumstances or managements assumptions, beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, or changes in any other events affecting such statements or information. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. Lawyers for the Herero and Nama tribes on Tuesday appealed a New York court ruling dismissing their compensation claim against Germany for the genocide of their ancestors in present-day Namibia. In a filing before New Yorks federal appeals court, lawyers for the two ethnicities claim a lower court erred in its March 6 decision, which said Germany was protected from their suit by the principle of sovereign immunity of a state. Germany is vulnerable to the claim because it owns real estate in New York, and the remains of some genocide victims are interred at the citys American Museum of Natural History, the filing says, repeating arguments rejected in the March ruling. The two tribes are seeking compensation for the persecution their members suffered in what was known as German South West Africa during colonial rule from 1884-1915. The territory has since become Namibia. Tens of thousands of members of the Herero tribe and some 10,000 Namas were killed from 1904-1908 after rebelling against German rule. Germany has officially recognized these abuses, and in recent months has been negotiating an agreement with Namibia that would combine an official apology with development aid. But Hereros and Namas havent been invited to these discussions, and instead went to court in the United States to argue for reparations from Germany. After the court ruling in March, German authorities accelerated the repatriation of human remains and works of art looted from African countries during the colonial era. A Sarajevo court on Wednesday sentenced a woman to 10 years in jail for killing a 12-year-old Serb boy during the 1992-95 Bosnian war. Elfeta Veseli, who served with the Bosniac (Bosnian Muslim) forces, was convicted of a war crime for killing Slobodan Stojanovic, an ethnic Serb. He and his parents fled their home as the Bosniac forces advanced, but he went back to fetch his pet dog and was never seen alive again. Stojanovic died in the eastern Zvornik region at the beginning of the conflict, said a statement from the court. Elfeta Veseli was born in Kosovo in 1960, but was living in Bosnia when the war started. In 1992, she was part of a unit led by Naser Oric, then the commander of the Bosniac forces in Srebrenica, who last November was himself acquitted of war crimes by a Bosnian court. According to media reports, Veseli was arrested in September 2016 in Switzerland before being extradited to Bosnia the following March. She is one of about 10 women convicted of war crimes during the Bosnian war, while another 20 are currently being investigated. Several hundred men have been convicted of war crimes. In December 2017, former Croat soldier Azra Basic was jailed for 14 years for war crimes against Serb civilians in the northern Derventa region. That was the heaviest sentence to date handed down to a woman convicted of war crimes during the conflict. The most senior woman convicted of war crimes is the former Bosnian Serb vice president, Biljana Plavsic. The only woman judged before the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia in The Hague, she was jailed in 2003 for 11 years, after pleading guilty. The Bosnian war is thought to have left more than 100,000 people dead. South Sudans President Salva Kiir said Wednesday that a six-month delay agreed with his rivals for the formation of a unity government was not enough time to resolve outstanding issues. Warring parties in a civil conflict that is now in its sixth year, agreed Friday to delay the formation of a power-sharing government from May 12 for six months, after implementation of a peace deal ran aground. Kiirs main rival, his former vice president Riek Machar, had pushed for the delay, while Kiir wanted to move forward with the unity government and deal with outstanding issues later. However the president said even the extension would not be enough to resolve sticky issues such as creating a unified army and agreeing on state boundaries. If we cannot do them in the last eight months, what will make this succeed this time around in six months? Kiir told officials while launching the countrys new civil registry. I told my team (in Addis Ababa) that instead of six months, let us call for a one-year delay, due to seasonal rains from May to November which make the countrys largely dirt roads impassable. Kiir accused Machar of continuing to recruit fighters during a ceasefire which has largely held since a peace deal was signed in September. He is now recruiting and this recruitment is prohibited in the agreement and if it is a matter of recruitment, it does not cost me much to also recruit, he said. The United Nations has accused all sides of continuing to recruit fighters. South Sudans war broke out in 2013, two years after it gained independence, after Kiir accused his Machar of plotting a coup against him. The fighting has left 380,000 people dead and forced more than four million South Sudanese almost a third of the population to flee their homes. Numerous attempts to restore peace have failed. Lack of political will Questions have mounted over Kiirs political will to implement the peace deal. It emerged last week he had hired an American lobby firm to block the formation of a hybrid African Union-South Sudan court to try war crimes, stipulated in the peace agreement. A statement by the International Crisis Group on Wednesday said the status quo was convenient for both sides. The government has little incentive to execute a power-sharing arrangement that, by definition, will dilute its authority, said the statement. Meanwhile Machar appears to want to use the planned cantonment process under which both sides armed groups are to be assembled and later integrated in a new, unified army as an opportunity to regroup and bankroll his fighting force. The Crisis Group said that for the next six months to be more productive than the last eight, rival sides would have to agree on what needs to be implemented before the formation of the new government. Machar is insisting he will only return from exile once the cantonment process has been completed. A unity government preconditioned on a broader reform of the army and the integration of Machars disparate armed groups many of which are likely to resist such a move might never be formed, said the statement. The Crisis Group also called for better co-ordination among outside actors after the ouster of the accords main broker Omar al-Bashir, which has left a diplomatic vacuum. Another allegation of heresy involves Francis' approval of an agreement with China that gives the government some say in the selection of bishops (an arguably unwise but not unprecedented accommodation to secular authorities). Then there is the bizarre claim in the letter that at a 2018 ceremony the pope carried a pastoral staff in the form of a stang, an object used in satanic rituals. (Crux, a Catholic news service, reported that the allegedly diabolical staff was actually an artistic representation of Christ on the cross presented to the pope at a youth event in Rome.) South Africa: South Africans urged to vote Government has called on all South Africans, especially young and first-time voters, to exercise their democratic right to vote. Today, 8 May 2019, is a public holiday and government appeals to employers to allow employees time off so that they can vote. The 26.7 million people who have registered to vote on the 8 May national and provincial elections will be able to cast their votes at one of the 22 924 voting stations countrywide. With Election Day being a public holiday, this is an opportunity for voters to visit their voting stations throughout the day without creating bottlenecks in the evening, said the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) in a statement. Government has urged all South Africans not to leave voting to the last minute. You are eligible to vote if you are: A South African citizen and are registered to vote; At least 18 years old; and In possession of a green bar-coded ID book, smart ID card or temporary identity certificate. Voters can verify their registration status and obtain information on their voting district by visiting www.elections.org.za, call the IEC helpline on 0800 11 8000, download the IEC South Africa app, or SMS your ID number to 32810 (R1/SMS) to get your registration status, the GCIS said. Several security measures have been put in place to ensure safe and peaceful elections. Government will not allow individuals or groups to disrupt the countrys sixth democratic elections and calls on all to respect the right to vote and warn those who aim to disrupt the elections or intimidate voters that they will face the full might of the law. All Home Affairs offices will be open today from 7am to 9pm to assist citizens with the necessary documents for voting. Voters can call Home Affairs on 0800 6011 90 toll free for more information. Follow the conversation on Twitter: #2019Elections @SAgovnews, @IECSouthAfrica, @GovernmentZA, @GCISMedia, @homeaffairsZA. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. About 500 keepers took part the ceremony in a show of loyalty to the monarch. Animals and handlers prostrated themselves for 19 seconds in front of a portrait of the king. For Thais, elephants have a special historical and cultural significance. Bangkok (AsiaNews/Agencies) A day after coronation ceremonies ended, a majestic parade of 11 elephants painted in white paid tribute to King Maha Vajiralongkorn in the heart of Bangkok. Outside the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the elephants prostrated themselves before a portrait of the king, as a show of loyalty and best wishes to the monarch. The animals came from the ancient capital of Ayutthaya, which is now the capital of the homonymous province. About 500 elephant keepers from the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace in Ayutthaya province and elsewhere joined the ceremony before the king to show their loyalty. They paraded with the beautifully dressed elephants on Sanam Chai Road from the Territorial Defence Command to the Sawasdisopa Gate of the Grand Palace close to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha where the animals prostrated themselves for 19 seconds. The event started at 9.09am and took about an hour to finish. Crowds thronged the area to watch. Elephants have great historical and cultural value in Thailand symbolising the monarch, battles, as well as peace and serenity. A non-toxic, water-based paint mixed with powder was used to create the appearance of a white elephant without harming the animals. Emanuels take: Ever protective of his turf, which includes Midway and OHare airports, Emanuel suggested in a statement late last week that expansion plans at both would be enough and that those millions requested could be put to better use. In fact, when the O'Hare expansion is complete, it will be the equivalent of adding a third airport to the area, Emanuel is quoted as saying in an emailed statement. He also said: If the state has an extra $150 million to spend, schools, mass transit, libraries and parks could wisely use those resources. KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. -- 3,000 students across the Klamath Falls City School District will have the day off Wednesday, May 8th. The school district says it was forced to cancel school due to about 150 staff members participating in the statewide May 8th teacher walkout advocating for more funding toward education. Superintendent Dr. Paul Hillyer said he agrees that schools need more funding, but the district does not support staff missing school. "We do not, cannot, legally support a walkout of school. Therefore, this way of calling attention is not something we have supported as a school district," Dr. Hillyer said. Dr. Hillyer estimates about one-third to one-half of the district's staff will be at Wednesday's rally. He said the district let parents know a school cancellation was a possibility, but wanted to get an accurate count of how many staff would not be at the schools before administrators made the call. Ultimately, the district alerted parents on Monday that schools across the district would be cancelled Wednesday. "It was just a safety factor," Dr. Hillyer added. "We just believed we didn't have a high enough percentage of employees for students to feel totally safe with having the young people out of school." Some parents are not happy with school being cancelled. While parent Chirstina Handsaker supports teachers demanding more funding, she does not believe that walking out of the classroom sets a good example for the kids like her 3rd grade son. "I don't think teachers, some not all, are sitting down explaining to their classrooms why they're walking out tomorrow," Handsaker said. "I think they are conveying the wrong message." Handsaker believed teachers could have advocated for education in another, better way like by having their students write letter to the Oregon legislature. She plans to do this with her son while he's off from school Wednesday. "They lose enough school days from furlough days and other things that they come up with that they aren't going to have school that day. It's setting the kids back," Handsaker added. Staff participating in the walkout will hold their rally at the Klamath County Fairgrounds. Please note that while the Klamath Falls City School District will close its schools Wednesday, the Klamath County School District will remain open. MEDFORD, Ore. With planned teacher demonstrations looming on Wednesday, May 8 a school day school districts across Southern Oregon have announced a variety of responses based both on the expected levels of involvement in their area, and on the outcome of negotiations between educators and administrators. Last week, teachers and staff at in the Medford School District reached a compromise in an area that could have considerable participation, opting to shift school hours slightly. Some districts have made similar arrangements, while others don't anticipate significant walk-outs. No changes of schedule at this time / no major walk-outs anticipated in the following districts: Phoenix-Talent School District Pinehurst School District Prospect Charter School Rogue River School District Three Rivers School District Central Curry School District Brookings-Harbor School District No official statement from the following districts: Butte Falls School District Central Point School District We appreciate our teachers every week, but let's show them some extra love! #TeacherAppreciationWeek pic.twitter.com/pJ9DatWsyu OEA (@oregoneducation) May 6, 2019 The Oregon Education Association (OEA) has spearheaded the effort for these walkouts and rallies, saying that the state needs to invest more funding in schools in order to better serve children. The push is modeled after major teacher strikes and demonstrations in a number of other states over the past several years, loosely associated under the "Red for Ed" banner. "It's time past time to increase school funding and INVEST IN STUDENTS," OEA wrote in a post promoting the events. "We're coming together to stand up for students and call on lawmakers to finally fund our schools." Below you'll find the plans announced so far by individual school districts and the teachers who work there: Medford School District Middle school classes - 8:35 a.m. to 1:35 p.m. High school classes - 8:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Participants will gather at 2:30 p.m. on the Central Medford High School lawn, followed by a march to Alba Park at 2:50 p.m. Rally in Alba Park, then a march downtown at 4:30 p.m. Ashland School District Early release, with time varying somewhat by school. Participants will march from Ashland High, Helman and Walker around 12:30 p.m. and head downtown. Rally takes place on Siskiyou Boulevard at 1 p.m. Eagle Point Schools No official walkout planned, teachers will walk from Eagle Point High around 3:45 p.m. and gather at another location. Grants Pass School District School schedule will be as normal, with students involved in a variety of community activities. Rally begins at 4 p.m. at the Josephine County Courthouse. Klamath Falls City Schools No school on Wednesday, May 8. Will resume as normal on Thursday. The Oregon Education Association has indicated that there will be a rally beginning at 9 a.m. Teachers gather from 4-6 p.m. at the Klamath County Fairgrounds. Klamath County School District The beef, poultry, sheep and goat shows are held at the Five Points Bank Arena in the Nebraska Farm Bureau Show Ring. The swine show is held in the Aurora Cooperative Pavilion. Harder said, the Aksarben Horse Show, which is held a week before the livestock competition, will not take place this year. The horse show is being reorganized to make it more attractive to youth participants and will be put back on the Aksarben schedule in 2020. We are excited about bringing back the poultry show, bringing back the breeding gilts to the hog show, and adding the four new states, he said. Harder said the most significant change to the show is opening it up to all youths from 9 to 19 years old from the 14 invited states. We want to expand our pool of kids who can come to the show, he said. Some kids are just in 4-H or FFA, but you have some kids who are not in either organization. Their families may have cattle or some other kind of livestock, and they love to exhibit them. This just gives them a venue to come to Grand Island and exhibit. Harder said moving the Aksarben Stock Show to Grand Island has been a big boost for the show. This was the worst Ive ever seen for destruction. A tornado cuts a narrow swath for a few miles ... This came up from north of here and went all the way to the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, he said. Neither he nor his neighbors along the river were prepared for the never-seen-before event. The explosion of water and ice took away 56 of his calves, nine Angus cows and a Charolais bull. There are some we are not going to find because they got sanded over or washed downstream, Panowicz explained. In a Hub interview a week after the flood, he said hed probably sell his remaining cows and get out of the cattle business. Now the plan is to continue for a year or two to build back his herd. Panowiczs biggest concern for the rest of this year is having enough properly fenced grazing land for his remaining cattle. He estimates that 160-175 acres of his 460 acres of pasture state school lease acres are 75 percent of the total are unusable. That includes 50-60 acres of a grassland he owns north of the meadowlarks fencepost thats buried in sand averaging 2 feet deep. HOLDREGE A Holdrege man accused of killing two Holdrege men and seriously injuring his lawyer wants to get rid of his public defenders for his murder case. Manuel Gomez, 45, made a motion Wednesday in Phelps County District Court for new attorneys to represent him citing conflicts he has with Nancy Freburg, Phelps County Public Defender, and Jeff Pickens with the Nebraska Commission of Public Advocacy. Gomez appeared in court for an arraignment hearing, which has not been rescheduled. Hes accused of shooting Raymond Burton, 65, David Rogers, 54, and Doyle Morse, 64, all of Holdrege, at their individual residences in Holdrege on Feb. 21. Burton and Rogers died at Sunrise View Apartments where they lived. Morse, a lawyer, was representing Gomez at the time he was shot at his house that he also used as an office at 416 Logan St. After being shot, Morse was able to call 911 for help. When police arrived Morse identified Gomez as his shooter, records have said. His family had to install 1.5 miles of new fence just to get us functional, to get dry pens for our cows, he said. ... We worked every day for six days. It was just after the flood and there was mud and we had big ice chunks we had to move out of the way. Kaminskis brother, Matt, who works for Burlington Northern Santa Fe in Fort Worth, Texas, came home to help. When asked about the floods emotional impact, Kaminski said, I just know we were so incredibly busy we were in shock. So we didnt have to handle it all at once. You were addressing what needed to be done right now. It wasnt a plan for two to three weeks from now. It was surviving, not thriving. Grazing pastures are miles from the flooded areas, but Kaminski said three acres of cropland dropped into the river. Other fields have gullies carved by the flood. Wet weather has slowed progress on planting 800 acres of corn for himself and some neighbors. It has certainly changed our balance sheets, Kaminski said, about how the flood changed his 2019 business plan. Slamas bill ensures that social studies curriculum in each school district must incorporate at least one of three options. Schools have the choice to either administer the naturalization test before students complete the eighth grade and again before they complete the 12th grade, or students would be required to attend or participate in a government meeting and complete a project about what they learned. The last option would require students to complete a project or paper and a class presentation on holidays such as Veterans Day, Constitution Day or Native American Heritage Day. While Slamas bill was in the Legislature, Worthing, now a senior at Arthur County Schools in western Nebraska, testified about the importance of civics. Its important to know that each generation has that basic foundation (of civics), Worthing said. Personally I wish it was a graduation requirement. Im happy something passed. Its a stepping block for bigger and better things. In Elm Creek, Hoffman and Hubbard have seen how the U.S. Citizenship test has influenced their peers. The people you surround yourself with are the people who are going to motivate you to be your best self, she said. By joining a sorority, you can surround yourself with women who are like you, because you have similar interests. For Benner, the sorority was a home away from home, not only because her older sister Kristen and cousin Stephanie Hansen were also members, but because it allowed her to develop a support system and provided the encouragement she needed to seek leadership opportunities. There were a lot of older members throughout the Greek community who were involved on campus who I looked to for inspiration, she said. I think thats what you truly find when youre involved in Greek life. Last month, Benner was named UNKs Greek Woman of the Year in recognition of her dedication to Alpha Omicron Pi and the entire sorority and fraternity community. She served as vice president of public relations and president of the Panhellenic Council, which governs four UNK sororities, was a member of Order of Omega, a society honoring Greek leaders, and held numerous recruitment and leadership positions within Alpha Omicron Pi, including new member educator and assistant treasurer. LINCOLN A much-anticipated debate over a proposal to reduce Nebraskas traditionally high property taxes ended quietly and with a big question mark on Tuesday. After three hours of mostly philosophical debate about the urgent need for such relief, state senators moved on to other issues without taking a vote on Legislative Bill 289. Left in limbo is whats next for one of the top issues for the 2019 session of the Nebraska Legislature. The main sponsor of the proposal, which would raise sales taxes to lower property taxes and pump an additional $500 million into state aid to K-12 schools, said she plans to regroup, consider new amendments, and see if she can show support of 33 of the one-house Legislatures 49 senators necessary to bring the bill back up for debate. This is a hard decision (for senators), said State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn. But Im an optimist. Already, a small group of lawmakers were talking about pushing an alternative property tax relief plan, and Gov. Pete Ricketts more simple solution increasing the states property tax credit program by $51 million is sure to get another look. Two measures that will help economically disadvantaged areas of the state were offered by Omaha Sen. Justin Wayne and passed by his colleagues. The first, Legislative Resolution 14, passed 43-2, will allow voters to approve a constitutional amendment in 2020 to extend the maximum length of time to repay tax-increment financing indebtedness in certain cases. If approved, the amendment will authorize the Legislature to extend the maximum repayment period for TIF indebtedness from 15 to 20 years if, due to a high rate of unemployment combined with a high poverty rate, as determined by law, more than half of the property in a project area is designated as extremely blighted (a census tract with an average unemployment rate that is at least 200 percent of the average state unemployment rate and an average poverty rate of more than 20 percent). Antonio Pingitore was walking his beat in Kenosha after midnight when he saw a light flashing on the police box on the corner of Sheridan Road and what is now 60th Street. It was March 30, 1919, and Pingitore, an Italian immigrant who joined the force five years earlier, had been called in to work to cover for another officer who was sick. In those pre-police radio days, officers were alerted to calls by flashing lights on police boxes installed on poles around the city. Pingitore used the phone in the box to call the station. On the other end of the line, according to Kenosha News stories of the time, a police captain was giving the alert of a dramatic robbery. Three masked men had broken into an office at the American Brass Co. and used dynamite to blow open the company safe. The men took $50,000 in cash and $33,000 in Liberty Bonds and fled. But there was a poor connection on the line to the police box, and Pingitore could not understand what the captain was saying. He decided to walk to a gas station on Sheridan two blocks north of the police box. Unknown to 34-year-old Pingitore, the three men who robbed American Brass had hailed a cab and, when it stopped to pick them up, had pulled a gun on the driver and ordered him to take them to Chicago. But the cabbie told the men he did not have enough gas to make the trip. The robbers ordered him to go to the closest gas station the same station where Pingitore had just gone to use the phone. As Tony looked up from the phone, he saw taxi driver Gunnard Hansen walking through the door to the garage office, Kenosha News reporter Don Jensen wrote in a 1981 series of stories about the citys Crime of the Century. There was a strange look, fear maybe, on the cabbies face. He made a weak gesture with his hands. Pingitore saw two men walk into the station behind the taxi driver. The police officer reached for his revolver, according to Jensens report. But one of the robbers already had his gun out and pressed into the cab drivers back. The gunman lifted his pistol quickly, aiming it over Hansens shoulder. He fired. The bullet struck Pingitore in the neck. The 34-year-old officer died. The robbers fled, leading to a nationwide manhunt and the killers eventual capture. Memorial today At the annual Kenosha Law Enforcement Memorial Service today, Pingitore will be one of eight Kenosha County law enforcement officers honored. The ceremony honors local officers who died while on duty, along with officers who died on duty nationwide. The city is marking the 100th anniversary of Pingitores death by giving Second Avenue from 54th to 56th streets the street adjacent to the citys Public Safety Monument the subname Antonio Pingitore Way. One of Pingitores grandsons will speak at the ceremony. We are all very thankful as the remaining Pingitore clan around here that his death is being recognized, said Peter Pingitore, another grandson. Peter said the family remained in Kenosha, with generations staying in the same 54th Street home where Pingitore lived with his wife Concetta and their eight children. Peter said his grandmother had a photo of her husband on the wall, but the family rarely spoke about his death. He said he never really learned the details until he was an adult working in the Kenosha Unified School District. The superintendent at the time, a history buff, handed him a folder filled with Kenosha News stories from the time about the crime and subsequent search for the killers. According to the family, Pingitore came to the United States from Calabria, Italy, in 1899. He worked in coal mines in Johnstown, Pa., before coming to Kenosha. At first in Wisconsin he worked as a plumber. He joined the police force in 1914 when the department was seeking officers who were fluent in both English and Italian because of the growing Italian immigrant population here, according to the family. The annual Kenosha Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony, open to the public, begins at noon at the Kenosha Public Safety Monument in the 5500 block of Second Avenue, north of the Kenosha Public Museum. Love 6 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 2 Angry 3 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Across the United States, 30 million small businesses employ nearly 60 million workers, according to the Small Business Administration. They provide the backbone of our economy, and its this week National Small Business Week when they are in the spotlight. For the past decade, small businesses have been responsible for creating two-thirds of all net new jobs, empowering local economies all across the country, wrote Elaine Parker, president of the Job Creators Network Foundation, a small business advocacy organization, in an op-ed. Not a lot of large businesses would open a location in a town of a few thousand people, yet you cant go anywhere in America without running across a small business. They are truly the hallmark and cornerstone of Main Street. Thats the case in Kenosha County, where small and homegrown businesses fuel the economy and are supported by residents. About 70 percent of the Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerces 650 members are businesses with 15 employees or fewer, said Lou Molitor, chamber president and CEO. Small businesses are the mainstay of most chambers, he added. Kenosha city and county have issued proclamations recognizing National Small Business Week. In part, the proclamations read that the city and county join in this national effort to help Americas small businesses do what they do best grow their business, create jobs and ensure that our communities remain as vibrant tomorrow as they are today. Many local small businesses deserve recognition this week and throughout the year, but two in particular will be honored Friday in Waukesha when they receive 2019 Service Corps of Retired Executives/Wisconsin Small Business Administration awards. Heather Lux, regional project director of the Southeast office, nominated both Kenosha County business owners for their tireless work and participation in Wisconsin Womens Business Initiative Corp. programs. We are truly ecstatic that both have won statewide awards, Lux said. The winners, reported Sunday by business writer James Lawson, are Nicole Centeno, owner of Kenoshas K9 Kibble, and Joanne Freitag, co-owner of Parrish & Freitag, a financial services firm in Salem Lakes. Centeno, who will be honored as Emerging Small Business Person, sought a career change and returned to school to graduate with a marketing degree from Gateway Technical College. A dog owner, she wanted to provide healthy food for pets and opened K9 Kibble with her husband, Joseph, in 2013 in downtown Kenosha. Since then, the store expanded, added a do-it-yourself pet wash, and last December they purchased the building at 5919 Sheridan Road, where they now operate out of larger quarters with five associate team members. Freitag, who will be honored as Financial Services Champion, makes office calls to small businesses and nonprofits to handle tax accounting and financial services. As vice president and managing partner of Parrish & Frietag, she consults and teaches and gives them the feeling that we are working along beside them. Our business is built around a personal relationship, she said. Were working for people who have a dream. Centeno and Frietag represent just two of the innovative local businesses that make it happen every day in Kenosha County. Around Wisconsin there are so many, and this week reminds us to support small businesses when we can. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 In 1992 my new husband and I moved to Wisconsin from California so I could accept a faculty position at Gateway Technical College. The April 21 Kenosha News article, Study: States Migration Patterns Threaten Workforce, describes there arent enough young people to replace the baby boomers retiring in the next 10-15 years. The article also states Wisconsin was able to lure people in their 30s to 50s to the state in the 1990s to make up for the exodus of young graduates leaving. We ended up staying in Wisconsin and raised our family here. We enjoyed great jobs, excellent health insurance, health care and strong pensions. We bought a nice home and lived a comfortable life. Weve spent more than $100,000 in the UW education system over the years and have contributed to our community. Life in Wisconsin has been really good! However, a lot of the things that attracted us here 27 years ago are no longer in play. The union that negotiated those great wages and benefits is gone. The Fordham Institute, a conservative think tank, recently found teachers salaries in Wisconsin are $4,000 less than the national average. My husband, a municipal employee, and I both saw our wages stagnate and benefits reduced after Act 10 in 2011. The brain drain is real and many kids educated in Wisconsin move on to greener and warmer pastures. Wages and benefits are only part of the package parks and natural areas, public transportation, marijuana law reform, smart technology and innovative urban development are all needed for Kenosha to become the kind of place young people want to live, work and play. Katie Field Pleasant Prairie Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 616 Shares Share Sometimes referred to as right-to-die, physician-assisted suicide laws make it possible for terminally ill patients to use prescribed medications to end their lives instead of facing a protracted death. The latest state to pass legislation allowing terminally ill patients to end their lives was New Jersey. The law will go into effect on August 1. The topic of physician-assisted suicide and right-to-die is incredibly complex and emotionally charged. Im not going to attempt to persuade you one way or the other, but this topic is certainly worth discussion. New Jersey is now the ninth jurisdiction to allow physician-assisted suicide. The others are outlined in the map below. The New Jersey law states either a psychiatrist or psychologist must determine that the patient has the mental capacity to make the decision. The prescription is a series of self-administered pills that can be taken at home. The origin of right-to-die legislation in the United States began in Oregon in 1997. Washington state followed in 2008. Most have modeled their laws off Oregons. To obtain a prescription for a life-ending medication, two doctors must determine a patient has no more than six months left to live and is mentally competent to ask for the medication. There is also usually a waiting period of 15 days between the first and second doctors approval before a medication is authorized. According to data from 2018, 1,749 Oregon state residents have taken their lives with a legal prescription since the law went into effect. In 2016, 133 ingested lethal medication. An overwhelming number of these patients were elderly (80%) and most had cancer (79%). In my home state of Indiana, right-to-die bills have been introduced and discussed, but no legislation has passed. Naturally, not everyone is in support of such legislation. One argument is that a physicians estimation on how long a patient will live can never be exact; thus the six-month timeline is mostly arbitrary. On the other hand, physicians are very good at recognizing when someone is nearing the end. Therefore, palliative care medicine is argued to be the best medicine, not assisted-suicide. Palliative care is an interdisciplinary approach to specialized medical and nursing care for people with life-limiting illnesses. It focuses on providing relief from the symptoms, pain, physical stress and mental stress at any stage of illness. The American College of Physicians (ACP) has come out strongly in their opposition to assisted suicide. In Annals of Internal Medicine in October 2017, ACP President Jack Ende wrote that the focus at the end of life should be on efforts to prevent or ease suffering and on the often unaddressed needs of patients and families. As a society, we need to work to improve hospice and palliative care, including awareness and access. On the other hand, there are many advocacy groups in favor of right-to-die. An example is Death with Dignity, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting legislation and educating the public on the topic. Periodically, there are cases of assisted suicide that make the mainstream media. For example, I can still recall the case of Brittany Maynard, a 29-year old who was diagnosed with stage IV brain cancer in 2014. She moved to Oregon because, at that time, her home state of California didnt allow assisted suicide. She wanted to die with dignity and not suffer. Another case involved Betsy Davis, a 41-year woman from California who had ALS. Instead of suffering a slow and painful death, she threw a farewell party for her friends and family and then took a dose of lethal medication. Not all agree with this approach, however. One particularly outspoken physician was published shortly after the death of Brittany Maynard. Ira Byock, chief medical officer of the Institute for Human Caring of Providence Health and Services, spoke loudly against the practice. When doctor-induced death becomes an accepted response to the suffering of dying people, logical extensions grease the slippery slope, he wrote in a New York Times op-ed. He cited statistics in Holland, where the practice is permitted, that claim more than 40 people sought and received doctor-assisted death for depression and other mental disorders. Even the psychiatrist who began this practice in the 90s recently declared the situation had gone off the rails. For the sake of transparency, even if Indiana eventually passes a law making right-to-die legal, I will not prescribe the lethal medication. That doesnt mean Im insensitive to the pain and suffering these patients face and I certainly understand both sides of the argument. I just could not, with a clear conscience, participate in physician-assisted suicide. Ive dedicated my life to alleviating suffering, and I took an oath to First, do no harm. How does physician-assisted suicide fit into that paradigm? I dont think it does. But I also know others disagree with me. Im also a Christian, so I care very much about what the Bible says about death, dying and suffering. Of course, a patient need not share my religious beliefs, or believe in God at all, for me to treat them with respect and honor their wishes. I do this every day as a physician. But doesnt that obligation change when a physician is asked to help kill someone? I certainly think so. Suffice to say, the topic of doctor-assisted suicide is extremely complex and emotionally charged. I suspect we will see more states pass legislation making this practice legal and we should continue to respectfully discuss the ramifications. Kevin Tolliver is an internal medicine physician who blogs at My Medical Musings. Image credit: Shutterstock.com SALEM, Ore. (AP) -- Two were arrested in Roseburg Tuesday, a day after two men were fatally shot in Salem. Marion County Sheriff's deputies responded to a shooting report about 10:15 p.m. Monday. The sheriff's office said when deputies arrived, Bradley Kelley, 35, was found dead. Two others found with injures were taken to a hospital. Michael Buntjer, 35, died at the hospital, and Coral Olfert, 26, suffered injuries that were not life-threatening. Autopsies performed by the Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office show both men died of gunshot wounds. Suspects Keonte Caldwell and Curtis Welch were arrested Tuesday in the Roseburg area. Authorities confirmed that Caldwell and Welch were known to the victims. Both men are being held at the Douglas County jail on murder charges. LANE COUNTY, Ore. -- Oregon State Police are assisting the Lane County Sheriff's Office after 33 guns and two cars were stolen from a property outside of Oakridge Monday morning. Sgt. Carrie Carver said deputies responded to a report of a burglary on just after 7:30 a.m., and it is still an active investigation. Carver declined to give any other details. According to reports from OSP, the caretaker for the property reported the burglary and said it took place at the main residence. Troopers said the stolen guns include rifles, shotguns and pistols. Dennis Sullivan lives in Oakridge and hopes the stolen guns are not used in any other crimes. "It's too bad those guns are out there, but hopefully they'll recover them and nobody gets hurt," Sullivan said. OSP describes the two vehicles that were stolen as a 2015 white GMC Yukon Denali and a brown and white Ford F-350 King Ranch pickup. Both cars have a Vietnam War campaign ribbon bumper sticker on them, according to the OSP report. KEZI 9 News reached out to the property owners but has not heard back. The caretaker told KEZI that police have asked her not to comment. SALEM, Ore. -- Thousands of teachers walked out across Oregon to protest education funding May 8, and among them are teachers from Eugene School District 4J and the Bethel School District. Schools around the state will close for at least part of Wednesday as teachers try to put pressure on lawmakers for more money. Classes were canceled in the 4J and Bethel districts due to a lack of substitutes. Teachers, staff and students are currently rallying at the Park Blocks in Eugene and other locations in our area. 18th Avenue and Chambers Street Buses will be leaving Sheldon High School this afternoon for Salem. Supporters will gather at Riverfront Park for a rally before marching to the Capitol. I am here in downtown Eugene as teachers, parents and students gather for Day of Action- they are all here pushing to get more funding for schools@KEZI9 pic.twitter.com/GLd7qYLLPf Jaimie Hays (@jaimie_hays) May 8, 2019 Teachers in the Springfield School District will show support for the cause by rallying on Main Street after the end of the school day. Oregon schools have some of the highest class sizes and lowest graduation rates in the United States. The action follows a wave of teacher activism that began in West Virginia in 2018 and was followed by Oklahoma, Kentucky and Arizona. Teachers in North Carolina and South Carolina rallied at their respective state capitols last week seeking more money. The state's school funding problem can be traced to the 1990s, when voters passed two ballot measures to limit property taxes. Are you lost in the wild? Sorry, but the page you're looking for has not been found Try checking the URL for errors, goto home or try to search below. Sinn Fein MEP Liadh Ni Riada has said that rural Ireland deserves a high quality broadband network, not a 'botch job'. Ms Ni Riada made the remarks as the Cabinet met yesterday to approve the National Broadband Plan. "The government has gotten this badly wrong. The process has been fundamentally flawed from day one. The tendering process concluded without any competitive element which raises serious questions regarding the integrity of proceedings," she said. "The government refused to consider any alternative options. I have serious concerns that the privatised model, being rammed through by Fine Gael, will not deliver the high quality network our rural towns and villages have been waiting for. We are talking about 3 Billion of public money, six times the original estimate, for a network the people will not own." The Sinn Fein MEP said her colleague Brian Stanley has called on Minister Bruton to appear before the Dail this week to answer questions about the plan. The government is prioritising interests of the private sector over the wider public interest. Given the flawed nature of the process so far, there are very real concerns that costs may spiral out of control as has been the case with the National Children's Hospital," said Ms Ni Riada. The Minister needs to explain how the process has become such an utter mess. Sinn Fein has been advocating for a network based on the existing ESB system. It goes into every home in the state. The government closed its ears to it. They didn't want to know. "Rural Ireland deserves better. It is once again being sold a pup by Fine Gael to the benefit of private profiteers. The reality is that the government has turned its back on its responsibility to deliver the high quality, sustainable, value for money broadband network that rural Ireland needs." Glanbia Ireland has issued a statement saying it respects the decision of the Phelan family to pull out of the Greenfield demonstration farm at Clara on the Dublin Road, located close to the turn off for Gowran. It is also ending its involvement. This follows the decision of the highly respected Phelan family to take back control of the facility and the land which was run as a three-way partner between Glanbia, The Phelan's and the trust that runs the Farmer's Journal. Glanbia Ireland said its board believed that the Greenfield Farm project had successfully generated the data required to meet the original objectives. Glanbia Ireland Chairman Martin Keane said: The project has generated a large volume of data for knowledge transfer and was a huge resource, particularly for new entrants to milk production. This information will remain available through Teagasc. Glanbia Ireland fully respects the decision of the Phelan family to return to day-to-day farming on that land. Glanbia Ireland remain committed advocates of the grass based milk production system promoted by Teagasc as the optimum milk production system for the vast majority of Irish dairy farmers. We are currently close to finalising agreement with Teagasc on the next phase of our joint Farm Development programme replacing the recently concluded 2015-2018 Monitor Farm Programme," he said. The farm was initially set up in 2009 and commenced milking the following year. Set up in the knowledge that the quota regime that had stymied both dairy expansion and new entrants to the sector would end in 2015, the farm was developed "to demonstrate best practice in the design, construction and operation of a low-cost, grass-based milk production system to Irish dairy farmers". A dairy herd of 330 cows was established on 120ha, with the project envisaged to last until 2025. This year's Black River 5-K Youth Leadership Fundraiser, held Saturday, May 4, drew a large crowd of runners who who came out to support and participated in the annual event. Photo By Michaele Duke Kingstree, SC (29556) Today Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 71F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Low 56F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. LONDON (Reuters) - The worlds biggest diversified miners have yet to see their share prices reflect their role as providers of the minerals needed for a shift to a low-carbon economy. Mining companies provide minerals such as cobalt used in electric vehicle batteries and copper for increased electrification, and the sectors balance sheets are in rude health. Still, many investors are wary. Concerns include the demand outlook from China, the worlds biggest consumer of metals; the sectors history of wasting shareholders money on mergers and acquisitions that never deliver returns; and a patchy record on environmental, social and governance-related (ESG) issues. Reminders of the dangers include a disaster in Brazil at a Vale tailings dam in January that killed an estimated 300 people, and a U.S. corruption investigation into Glencore, announced in April. Refinitiv data shows the Big Four diversified miners - Rio Tinto, BHP, Anglo American and Glencore - trading at a lower forward 12-months price-to-earnings multiple than Britains FTSE 100. All the large mining companies are trading on high free cash flow yields relative to the broader market when you adjust for capital spending on growth projects, said Nick Stansbury, head of commodity research at Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM). This is indicative of the markets scepticism about the sustainability of those cash flows, the robustness of capital allocation by management and the sectors challenges around ESG issues. James Clunie, fund manager at Jupiter Fund Management, which holds shares in Rio Tinto and BHP, agreed uncertainty around medium-term commodity prices was a deterrent. A whole class of people say Im out because of that uncertainty, and that leads to (the stocks) undervaluation, he said. (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here tmsnrt.rs/2GSDbei) The same attitude is reflected in the ratings given to the four companies by brokers, with most favoring a fence-sitting hold recommendation. (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here tmsnrt.rs/2DIaVsN) On the flipside, others focus on how the miners have transformed their balance sheets and improved governance. Compared to the past, the resources sector is carrying a fraction of the leverage it used to, which should reduce the volatility of the shares, Evy Hambro, manager of the worlds largest actively managed mining equity fund, BlackRocks BGF World Mining Fund, told Reuters. In addition, the improved capital discipline combined with lower levels of reinvestment has increased the free cash flow available to shareholders and resulted in rising distributions to shareholders. BlackRock is the worlds largest money manager, with some $6 trillion in assets. Hambro manages a combined $11.9 billion across several funds. (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here tmsnrt.rs/2VEal9z) (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here tmsnrt.rs/2DHI9sc) (For an interactive version of the graphic, click here tmsnrt.rs/2VG8y3W) For an interactive version of the graphic, click here tmsnrt.rs/2VIClZK. LGIMs Stansbury said the sector was wrestling with several paradoxes. They are one of the most crucial industries in the fight against climate change, he said, referring to the minerals they can produce to roll out electrification and renewable energy. But extracting those minerals results in high levels of emissions, volumes of water consumption and fatalities, despite promises from major miners to eliminate harm. Mining can also lift large numbers of people out of poverty by providing well-paid jobs and helping to roll out electrification in emerging economies, but operating in the fragile democracies where some of the richest resources are found can expose miners to corruption allegations. It is essential the sector makes further progress on transparency and corruption. Investors need to be confident that the government take from resource extraction is used for the benefit of the local population, Stansbury said. Another concern is that the sectors financial health could be setting it up for a fall. Counterintuitively the risks around misallocation of capital are greater now that the sector has largely resolved their balance sheet problems, Stansbury said. At the bottom of the last cycle the sector just didnt have the money to spend unwisely on bad projects. Now they do, so its no surprise that these concerns are rising again in investors minds. Editing by Dale Hudson. WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) - The diplomatic cable from Beijing arrived in Washington late on Friday night, with systematic edits to a nearly 150-page draft trade agreement that would blow up months of negotiations between the worlds two largest economies, according to three U.S. government sources and three private sector sources briefed on the talks. The document was riddled with reversals by China that undermined core U.S. demands, the sources told Reuters. In each of the seven chapters of the draft trade deal, China had deleted its commitments to change laws to resolve core complaints that caused the United States to launch a trade war: theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation. U.S. President Donald Trump responded in a tweet on Sunday vowing to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent on Friday timed to land in the middle of a scheduled visit by Chinas Vice Premier Liu He to Washington to continue trade talks. The stripping of binding legal language from the draft struck directly at the highest priority of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer - who views changes to Chinese laws as essential to verifying compliance after years of what U.S. officials have called empty reform promises. Lighthizer has pushed hard for an enforcement regime more like those used for punitive economic sanctions such as those imposed on North Korea or Iran than a typical trade deal. This undermines the core architecture of the deal, said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the talks. PROCESS OF NEGOTIATION Spokespeople for the White House, the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a briefing on Wednesday that working out disagreements over trade was a process of negotiation and that China was not avoiding problems. Geng referred specific questions on the trade talks to the Commerce Ministry, which did not respond immediately to faxed questions from Reuters. Lighthizer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin were taken aback at the extent of the changes in the draft. The two cabinet officials on Monday told reporters that Chinese backtracking had prompted Trumps tariff order but did not provide details on the depth and breadth of the revisions. Liu last week told Lighthizer and Mnuchin that they needed to trust China to fulfil its pledges through administrative and regulatory changes, two of the sources said. Both Mnuchin and Lighthizer considered that unacceptable, given Chinas history of failing to fulfil reform pledges. One private-sector source briefed on the talks said the last round of negotiations had gone very poorly because China got greedy. China reneged on a dozen things, if not more ... The talks were so bad that the real surprise is that it took Trump until Sunday to blow up, the source said. After 20 years of having their way with the U.S., China still appears to be miscalculating with this administration. FURTHER TALKS THIS WEEK The rapid deterioration of negotiations rattled global stock markets, bonds and commodities this week. Until Sunday, markets had priced in the expectation that officials from the two countries were close to striking a deal. Investors and analysts questioned whether Trumps tweet was a negotiating ploy to wring more concessions from China. The sources told Reuters the extent of the setbacks in the revised text were serious and that Trumps response was not merely a negotiating strategy. Chinese negotiators said they couldnt touch the laws, said one of the government sources, calling the changes major. Changing any law in China requires a unique set of processes that cant be navigated quickly, said a Chinese official familiar with the talks. The official disputed the assertion that China was backtracking on its promises, adding that U.S. demands were becoming more harsh and the path to a deal more narrow as the negotiations drag on. Liu is set to arrive in Washington on Thursday for two days of talks that just last week were widely seen as pivotal a possible last round before a historic trade deal. Now, U.S. officials have little hope that Liu will come bearing any offer that can get talks back on track, said two of the sources. To avert escalation, some of the sources said, Liu would have to scrap Chinas proposed text changes and agree to make new laws. China would also have to move further towards the U.S. position on other sticking points, such as demands for curbs on Chinese industrial subsidies and a streamlined approval process for genetically engineered U.S. crops. The administration said the latest tariff escalation would take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday, hiking levees on Chinese products such as internet modems and routers, printed circuit boards, vacuum cleaners and furniture. The Chinese reversal may give China hawks in the Trump administration, including Lighthizer, an opening to take a harder stance. Mnuchin - who has been more open to a deal with improved market access, and at times clashed with Lighthizer appeared in sync with Lighthizer in describing the changes to reporters on Monday, while still leaving open the possibility that new tariffs could be averted with a deal. Trumps tweets left no room for backing down, and Lighthizer made it clear that, despite continuing talks, come Friday, there will be tariffs in place. Additional reporting by Chris Prentice in NEW YORK, and Jing Xu and Ben Blanchard in BEIJING; Editing by Simon Webb and Brian Thevenot. By Barbara Lewis and Simon Jessop LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - The world's biggest diversified miners have yet to see their share prices reflect their role as providers of the minerals needed for a shift to a low-carbon economy./p> Mining companies provide minerals such as cobalt used in electric vehicle batteries and copper for increased electrification, and the sector's balance sheets are in rude health. Still, many investors are wary. Concerns include the demand outlook from China, the world's biggest consumer of metals; the sector's history of wasting shareholders' money on mergers and acquisitions that never deliver returns; and a patchy record on environmental, social and governance-related (ESG) issues. Reminders of the dangers include a disaster in Brazil at a Vale tailings dam in January that killed an estimated 300 people, and a U.S. corruption investigation into Glencore , announced in April. Refinitiv data shows the Big Four diversified miners - Rio Tinto , BHP , Anglo American and Glencore - trading at a lower forward 12-months price-to-earnings multiple than Britain's FTSE 100. "All the large mining companies are trading on high free cash flow yields relative to the broader market when you adjust for capital spending on growth projects," said Nick Stansbury, head of commodity research at Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM). "This is indicative of the market's scepticism about the sustainability of those cash flows, the robustness of capital allocation by management and the sectors challenges around ESG issues." James Clunie, fund manager at Jupiter Fund Management, which holds shares in Rio Tinto and BHP, agreed uncertainty around medium-term commodity prices was a deterrent. "A whole class of people say 'I'm out' because of that uncertainty, and that leads to (the stocks') undervaluation," he said. The same attitude is reflected in the ratings given to the four companies by brokers, with most favouring a fence-sitting "hold" recommendation. On the flipside, others focus on how the miners have transformed their balance sheets and improved governance. "Compared to the past, the resources sector is carrying a fraction of the leverage it used to, which should reduce the volatility of the shares," Evy Hambro, manager of the world's largest actively managed mining equity fund, BlackRock's BGF World Mining Fund, told Reuters. "In addition, the improved capital discipline combined with lower levels of reinvestment has increased the free cash flow available to shareholders and resulted in rising distributions to shareholders." BlackRock is the world's largest money manager, with some $6 trillion in assets. Hambro manages a combined $11.9 billion across several funds. LGIM's Stansbury said the sector was wrestling with several paradoxes. "They are one of the most crucial industries in the fight against climate change," he said, referring to the minerals they can produce to roll out electrification and renewable energy. But extracting those minerals results in high levels of emissions, volumes of water consumption and fatalities, despite promises from major miners to eliminate harm. Mining can also lift large numbers of people out of poverty by providing well-paid jobs and helping to roll out electrification in emerging economies, but operating in the fragile democracies where some of the richest resources are found can expose miners to corruption allegations. "It is essential the sector makes further progress on transparency and corruption. Investors need to be confident that the government take from resource extraction is used for the benefit of the local population," Stansbury said. Another concern is that the sector's financial health could be setting it up for a fall. "Counterintuitively the risks around misallocation of capital are greater now that the sector has largely resolved their balance sheet problems," Stansbury said. "At the bottom of the last cycle the sector just didn't have the money to spend unwisely on bad projects. Now they do, so it's no surprise that these concerns are rising again in investor's minds." (Editing by Dale Hudson) LONDON (Reuters) - Iran announced on Wednesday it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear program, announcing steps that stop short of violating its 2015 deal with world powers for now, but threatening more action if countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. A year to the day after Washington pulled out of the nuclear deal, President Hassan Rouhani announced changes that experts said appeared calibrated to ensure Iran avoids triggering the deal's mechanism to punish it for violations, at least for now. "For now, nothing changes, but this could be a ticking time bomb," a European diplomat told Reuters. The main new measure that takes effect now would have limited practical impact: a halt to sales of enriched uranium and heavy water to other countries. The deal allows such sales so Iran can keep reducing its stockpiles below maximum thresholds, but Washington already effectively barred the sales with a sanctions move last week. For now, Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium is still well below the deal's cap and heavy water is less sensitive. Rouhani also threatened that in 60 days Iran would resume enrichment of uranium beyond the low purity - suitable for civilian nuclear power generation - allowed under the deal, unless the five other powers signed up to it found a way to protect Iran's oil and banking industries from U.S. sanctions. "If the five countries came to the negotiating table and we reached an agreement, and if they could protect our interests in the oil and banking sectors, we will go back to square one," Rouhani said in a televised address. "The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA," he said, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. "These are actions in line with the JCPOA." The 2015 accord was signed between Iran, Russia, China, Britain, France, Germany and the United States, before President Donald Trump took office. Iran agreed to limits on its nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions. Washington's European allies opposed Trump's decision to pull out and have tried, so far in vain, to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions. France and Germany both said they wanted to keep the deal alive, and warned Iran not to violate it. The Kremlin accused Washington of provoking Iran's move. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin had predicted consequences from the "unthought-out steps" of U.S. withdrawal. "Now we are seeing those consequences." China said the agreement should continue to be implemented and called on all sides to avoid an escalation of tensions. IRAN TREADS CAREFULLY Nuclear arms control experts said Iran's steps announced on Wednesday appeared tailored to avoid triggering renewed sanctions under a "snapback" mechanism in the 2015 accord. Mark Fitzpatrick, an associate fellow of the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said Iran was not yet close to exceeding its allowed stockpile limit of low-enriched uranium, and its heavy water stockpile was a comparatively minor issue. "Enriching (uranium) to 20 percent would surely spark sanctions, so I expect in 60 days there will be various 'technical' reasons why it can't be done right away," he said of Rouhani's threat to exceed the enrichment purity limit to levels farther along the road toward high-enriched, bomb-grade uranium. The weeks leading up to the anniversary of Trump's withdrawal from the agreement have seen a sharp tightening of U.S. sanctions and an increase in tensions on other fronts. Slideshow (3 Images) From this month, Washington has effectively ordered countries worldwide to stop buying Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. The Trump administration has revoked waivers that had allowed some countries to continue buying Iranian oil and it aims to reduce Iranian crude exports to zero. Washington has also blacklisted Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist group. Iran responded with threats to close the Gulf's Strait of Hormuz - the conduit for about a third op the world's seaborne oil exports - if its ships were blocked there. Washington announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier a to the Gulf to counter what it says are Iranian threats. Tehran says the USS Abraham Lincoln is merely replacing another carrier under a scheduled rotation, and calls the announcement old news. The looming total ban on oil sales is likely to sharply increase the economic hardship for Iran's 80 million people. Finding a response is the biggest test yet for Rouhani, a pragmatist who has faced strong opposition from hardliners. The nuclear deal was his flagship policy to end Iran's isolation and open up its economy to the world. Ultimate authority in Iran lies with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a cleric in power since 1989, who signed off on the nuclear deal but remains close to the hardline faction challenging Rouhani. Washington's European allies say Trump's repudiation of the deal weakens the pragmatic wing of Iran's leadership and plays into the hands of hardliners. It means ordinary Iranians see no economic benefits from Rouhani's efforts to open the country. The Trump administration argues that the deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed because it is not permanent, does not address Iran's missile program and does not punish Iran for meddling in the affairs of other countries. Trump's hard line is backed by Israel and Washington's Gulf Arab allies, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which see Iran as a foe and which gain leverage over global oil prices by keeping Iranian crude off the market. * GRAPHIC-2019 asset returns:* China April trade surprises with export fall, import growth* Focus on U.S-China trade talks (Adds official prices, adds Norsk) By Zandi Shabalala LONDON, May 8 (Reuters) - Copper fell to a near three-month low on Wednesday on concerns over a potential resumption of tit-for-tat trade tariffs between the United States and China ahead of last-ditch negotiations. U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to increase tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods on Friday has raised the risk of an escalation in the trade spat between Washington and Beijing. This could further slow the global economy while clouding the outlook for demand from top metals consumer China. The two sides will hold last-ditch talks in Washington on Thursday and Friday. Benchmark copper on the London Metal Exchange was down 0.8 percent at $6,125 a tonne in official rings, after touching its lowest since since Feb. 15 at $6,119. "We are not out of the woods as yet," said Saxo Bank analyst Ole Hansen, adding that volatility could be higher as the world's top economies resume talks. Hopes that the Chinese government could introduce more stimulus to cushion any softness caused by fallout from the trade dispute supported prices, Hansen said. "The market is of the belief that some kind of deal is in the interests of both parties but if there is a complete break down we could see some additional weakness," he said. Meanwhile, China's April trade data painted a mixed picture of its economy, with exports shrinking unexpectedly while imports surprised with their first increase in five months. TRADE: Washington has accused Beijing of reneging on substantial commitments made during months of negotiations aimed at ending their trade war, prompting Trump to issue a Friday deadline to raise tariffs on Chinese goods. COPPER IMPORTS: China's unwrought copper imports rose 3.6 percent in April from the previous month, according to data released by the General Administration of Customs on Wednesday, as demand gathered momentum at the start of the peak-consumption second quarter. ALUMINIUM SMELTER: China's Henan Shenhuo Group commenced construction of an aluminium smelting project with an annual capacity of 900,000 tonnes in the southwestern province of Yunnan. CHILE: Copper production at Chile's top mines dropped sharply in the first quarter of 2019, Chilean copper commission Cochilco said on Tuesday due to operational issues, heavy rains and falling ore grades at the largest deposits. NORSK: Norsk Hydro's Rolled Products division has for years failed to deliver sufficient profitability, the company's new chief executive told Reuters as she took office. PRICES: LME aluminium was 0.8 percent softer at $1,800 per tonne in official rings, zinc eased 1 percent to $2,664, lead was bid 0.6 percent higher at $1,866, while tin was bid up 0.3 percent at $19,425 and nickel was bid down 0.3 percent at $12,020. <^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Top Base and Precious Metals Analysis - GFMS ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^> (Reporting by Zandi Shabalala; editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Kirsten Donovan) zandi.shabalala.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net))LME price overview COMEX copper futures Base metals news All metals news All commodities news Metals diary Foreign exchange rates SPEED GUIDES )) Hilde Merete Aasheim, previously the head of Hydro's primary metal division, on Wednesday takes over from Svein Richard Brandtzaeg as Hydro's new top executive. "We will increase our ambitions on operational excellence and ensure stricter financial discipline going forward, and we will explore all options to improve earnings from Rolled Products for the future," Aasheim said in a statement. Rolled products are large aluminium sheets used in the automotive, construction and packaging industries, among others. Chief Financial Officer Eivind Kallevik will replace Aasheim as head of Hydro's primary metal division. Paal Kildemo, currently head of finance in that same division, will become CFO. These changes will be effective on Aug. 15. Hydro's Alunorte alumina refinery in Brazil, a key supplier to the global aluminium industry, is operating at half capacity following a spill in February 2018 that led regulators and courts to restrict the plant's output. Aasheim reiterated on Wednesday the plant must be returned to full production as soon as possible to allow for normal operations in Brazil. Resumption of full output at Alunorte, though, is dependent on a decision by a Brazilian federal court, and it is unclear when that will come. (Reporting by Gwladys Fouche; Editing by Tom Hogue) (Updates prices, adds comment) By Sethuraman N R May 8 (Reuters) - Gold prices hit their highest level in more than a week on Wednesday as renewed concern over the U.S.-China trade dispute and its potential impact on global growth dented risk sentiment, spurring some demand for safe-haven assets. Spot gold was up 0.2 percent at $1,287.20 per ounce, as of 0909 GMT, having hit their highest since April 26 at $1,287.94, earlier in the session. U.S. gold futures edged 0.2 percent higher to $1,288.20 an ounce. Some in the market expect the gold price rally to be limited, with the weakness in equity markets seen as temporary. "So far Trump's tariff threat has had much bigger impact on the stock markets than precious metals. While gold is drawing support from the scenario, investors are not accumulating the metal," said Carlo Alberto De Casa, chief analyst with ActivTrades. U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted on Sunday he would raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods, while Washington accused Beijing of backtracking from commitments made during trade negotiations. World shares held near five-week lows on Wednesday as investors moved into the safety of bonds, the Japanese yen and gold. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will visit the United States on Thursday for trade talks and additional tariffs are set to take effect on Friday if a trade agreement is not reached by then. While gold has benefited from a rising demand for safe-haven assets, prices have not been able to significantly move up despite the given backdrop in global markets. "Gold needs to break above the first resistance at $1,288 to see more recovery. The weakness in markets is seen as a temporary one and that's why we are not seeing a huge rally in the precious sector," ActivTrades' De Casa said. After stabilizing around $1,280 levels, gold is seeing some upside momentum in the near term, analysts at bullion trader Wing Fung said in a research note, but added that the resistance at $1,300 will still be hard to break. Spot gold may test resistance at $1,291 per ounce, a break above which could lead to a gain to the next resistance at $1,299, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao. Despite weak buying in biggest bullion consumer China so far this year, analysts and traders expect resilient Indian buying to support physical demand. Indians were expected to buy at least 10 percent more gold during the annual Hindu and Jain holy festival of Akshaya Tritiya than a year ago, supporting physical demand in Asia. Silver was steady at $14.91 an ounce, while platinum gained 0.1 percent to $864.90. Palladium fell 0.6 percent to $1,318.61 an ounce. (Reporting by Nallur Sethuraman in Bengaluru, editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise) Editor's Note: Get caught up in minuteswith our speedy summary of today's must-read news stories and expert opinions that moved the precious metals and financial markets. Sign up here! (Kitco News) - Global demand for lithium is on the rise, but one financial expert said current government policies have restricted Americas ability to capitalize on this emerging market. Lithium-ion batteries are key components in electric vehicles and portable technologies, such as laptops and phones. Worldwide demand for lithium is projected to continue to rise significantly; according to a study by Statista, global demand for lithium is expected to increase by 55% from 2019 to 2025. However, domestically, Howard Klein, founder of RK Equity, said that recent American economic policies have hindered the growth of the lithium market, in an interview with Kitco News at the Mines and Money conference in New York. Its 100% a function of politics, Klein said. Under the Obama administration, he said government policies tended to favor renewable energy sources and oppose fossil fuel consumption, prompting a short-lived boom for lithium in 2010. Adversely, the Trump administration has actively sought to increase fossil fuel consumption in an attempt to revitalize the mining industry, he added. Klein explained that U.S. dependency on lithium imports is one of the factors stunting lithiums growth potential. Weve strived for energy independence, he said, but now the goal posts are moving. The new energy metals are import-reliant to a great deal. America needs to be more supportive, Klein said, adding that his proposed solution would not take the same form as the government stimulus policies of Europe and China. Instead, he said, his proposal would involve the reduction of barriers by the government for private companies to engage the lithium market. Kleins remarks follow Teslas recent appeal for U.S. government to allocate more resources towards the mining industry, as the raw materials required for the construction of electric-vehicle batteries begin to dwindle and demand continues to rise. As an investment, Klein said lithium prices have significant potential to rise. However, he argued that this potential has been limited by the insufficiency of lithium supply in America. Humeyra Pamuk, Jonathan Landay WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered new sanctions on Iran, this time targeting the Islamic Republics export revenues from its industrial metals sector, and vowed to keep squeezing Tehran unless it fundamentally alters its policies. The announcement was made on the anniversary of Trumps unilateral withdrawal of the United States from a 2015 landmark deal between Tehran and world powers to curb its nuclear program in exchange for easing some sanctions and hours after Tehran said it would no longer fully comply with the accord. Tensions were already high between Washington and Tehran when the Trump administration said last weekend that it was deploying a carrier strike group and bombers to the Middle East, in response to what it said were troubling indications and warnings from Iran. Before Trumps executive order for the sanctions, a senior White House official said Washington would impose more economic curbs on Tehran very soon and had warned Europe to stop doing business with the Islamic Republic. Todays action targets Irans revenue from the export of industrial metals - 10 percent of its export economy - and puts other nations on notice that allowing Iranian steel and other metals into your ports will no longer be tolerated, Trump said in a statement. Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct, Trump said. The Trump administration says the nuclear deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed as it is not permanent, does not address Irans ballistic missile program and does not punish it for waging proxy wars in other Middle East countries. Leading Democratic lawmakers such as Chris Murphy, the top Democrat on the Senates Middle East subcommittee, said Irans halting compliance to some parts of the deal was disastrous news and accused Republican Trumps administration of making America much less safe through its policies. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi requested a briefing on Iran for members. Hours before the fresh U.S. sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced Tehran was reducing curbs to its nuclear program with steps that for now stopped short of violating the 2015 accord. But it threatened more action if countries did not shield it from sanctions. Tehran halting compliance with some elements of the nuclear deal was nothing less than nuclear blackmail of Europe, Tim Morrison, special assistant to the U.S. president and senior director for weapons of mass destruction, told a conference. Now is the time for the community of nations to strongly condemn Irans nuclear misconduct and increase pressure on the regime to comply with U.S. demands, Morrison said, adding that Washington was not done with sanctions on Iran. Morrison said the United States would move quickly against any attempt by European countries to undermine Washingtons sanctions pressure on Iran. He advised them against using the so-called Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate non-dollar trade to circumvent U.S. sanctions. If you are a bank, an investor, an insurer or other business in Europe you should know that getting involved in the ... Special Purpose Vehicle is a very poor business decision, Morrison said. Spearheaded by national security adviser John Bolton, the Trump administration has taken several unprecedented steps to squeeze Iran such as demanding the world halt all Iranian oil imports and designating Irans elite Revolutionary Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist organization, which Iran has cast as an American provocation. We have made our focus diplomatic isolation and economic pressure and that policy is working, Brian Hook, Special Envoy for Iran, said in a briefing. Hook said that more nations now, compared with a year ago, were in agreement with the United States on Iran. Washingtons European allies opposed Trumps decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal and have failed so far to find ways to blunt the economic impact of new U.S. sanctions. Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Jonathan Landay; Additional reporting by Patricia Zengerle and Makini Brice, Editing by Mary Milliken and Grant McCool By Tom Bergin ZURICH, May 8 (Reuters) - GAM Holding AG blocked Tim Haywood, the fund manager sacked for misconduct last year in a scandal that prompted a collapse in the Swiss firm's share price, from attending its annual shareholder meeting on Wednesday. Investors at the meeting failed to grant formal approval of the board's performance following months of turmoil after its decision to suspend its top money manager, which triggered an investor exodus and a sharp fall in the company's shares. Haywood, who had travelled from Britain to attend the meeting, said he had purchased shares in March or April. But Zurich-based GAM said his shares had not been registered in time to entitle him entry to the meeting on Wednesday. Only correctly registered shareholders have a right to attend Annual General Meetings. Haywood said he wished to attend so that he could vote against the acceptance of the annual report an agenda item for the meeting - on the basis that it contained, in his view, erroneous accusations against him. GAM accused the fund manager of failing to do or record correct due diligence on investments. Haywood said he rejected the charges of misconduct and said GAM's accusations against him were hurting the company's effort to repair its damaged reputation, which had contributed to outflows from GAM funds of billions of Swiss francs. "The GAM narrative is not going to change until they treat me fairly," Haywood told reporters in the lobby of the Zurich hotel where the meeting was being held. Haywood said he still hopes to win the appeal against his sacking. Reuters reported last week how a GAM whistleblower who alerted British financial regulators about Haywood's behaviour did so over concerns about the purchase of more than half a billion pounds worth of bonds which were backed by around 22 million pounds ($28.67 million) worth of idle power generators. Investors rejected a motion to discharge the leadership from legal liability for their actions last year, with investors representing only 49.4 percent of shares supporting the motion, short of the majority required. The step has no immediate repercussions for the leadership, but makes it easier for shareholders to take legal action. Chairman Hugh Scott-Barrett said the board acknowledged the vote, given what he described as GAM had experienced its "most demanding year" since it floated on public markets. "We understand the decision of some shareholders in the context of the continuing liquidation of the ARBF fund," he said in reference to the Absolute Return Bond Fund, which was managed by Haywood and which was wound down after he was suspended. ($1 = 0.7673 pounds) (Reporting by Tom Bergin, editing by Louise Heavens) (Adds details from ISS report, background) By Hans Seidenstuecker and Arno Schuetze FRANKFURT, May 8 (Reuters) - Deutsche Bank faces a possible public rebuke from shareholders after two influential investor advisory groups urged them to issue a vote of no confidence in the lender's management. In a highly critical report, U.S. proxy advisor Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) said it recommended investors do not ratify management's work last year when asked to do so at an annual shareholder meeting on May 23. "At a certain point, shareholders should make their concerns heard," it said, singling out lax money laundering controls and the group's "precarious" low share price, which it said threatened "Deutsche Bank's very existence". "It is time for shareholders to hold the bank personally responsible," ISS said, adding that "underlying patterns of leadership and the culture of risk" had not improved despite many promises to do so. Deutsche Bank's management, under the watch of chairman Paul Achleitner, has faced renewed criticism amid dwindling profits and strategic uncertainty, underscored by the recent collapse of merger talks with Commerzbank. A second advisory group, Glass Lewis, has also urged investors not to endorse management's work, citing a substantial loss of shareholder value and performance concerns. Deutsche Bank said the ISS recommendations did not reflect the current situation at the bank. "While we acknowledge that there is still work ahead of us, we have significantly improved our risk and control systems in the last three years and we will continue to do so", it said. It is uncertain which way shareholders will vote but a vote of no confidence would deliver a powerful symbolic rebuke to management, although there are no legal repercussions. Following similar advice from advisors, shareholders in German drugmaker Bayer recently voted against approving the work of management after the costly takeover of seed maker Monsanto led to a slump in its share price. UBS shareholders also refused to endorse the performance of the Swiss banks leadership last week, following the bank's French conviction for helping wealthy clients evade taxes. The ISS report paints a bleak picture of attempts to turn around the lender, which has been fined billions of dollars in numerous cases, including a penalty for artificial trades between Moscow, London and New York that authorities said were used to launder $10 billion out of Russia. "While Deutsche Bank has been promising to clean up its internal controls for many years, alone in 2018, a slew of new investigations were launched against the bank for failure to have appropriate anti-money laundering ... controls," ISS said. It added that Deutsche Bank's financial viability had further deteriorated, making it a potential takeover target." Deutsche Bank's share price has lost more than 70 percent and the lender has been through three chief executives since Achleitner became chairman in 2012. Last month, Deutsche and Commerzbank, Germany's two largest lenders, announced that nearly six weeks of negotiations about a tie-up had ended in failure, raising questions about the future of the Frankfurt-based rivals. (Writing by Arno Schuetze and John O'Donnell; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) By Yawen Chen and Kevin Yao BEIJING, May 8 (Reuters) - China's exports unexpectedly shrank in April but imports surprised with their first increase in five months, painting a mixed picture of the economy as Washington ratchets up pressure on Beijing with threats of more punishing tariffs. The latest trade data, which would normally be pored over for clues on how the world's second-largest economy is faring, has been overshadowed by worries that the U.S.-China trade war is escalating, rather than nearing a resolution as many investors had expected. High-level Chinese and U.S. negotiators will meet in Washington in the next two days, as Beijing tries to avoid a sharp increase in tariffs on its goods ordered by President Donald Trump to take effect from Friday. Investors have been hoping that China's April trade data would add to signs that its economy is beginning to steady, easing worries about cooling global growth. But exports fell 2.7 percent from a year earlier, customs data showed on Wednesday. ANZ estimated more than 80 percent of the headline decline was due to a sharp drop in shipments to the United States, while its high-tech exports continued to be weighed down by sluggish global demand for smartphones and other electronic gadgets. Economists polled by Reuters had expected growth to slow to 2.3 percent after March's surprising 14.2 percent jump, which some analysts suspected was inflated by seasonal factors and temporary business distortions related to a cut in the value-added tax (VAT) effective April 1. "The outlook for Chinese exports is challenging. If Trump follows through on his latest tariff threats, we think this would drag down export growth by two to three percentage points," Capital Economics said in a note. "Even if a last-minute deal is struck this week to avoid further tariffs, the downbeat prospects for global growth will probably mean that export growth remains subdued." POSITIVE IMPORT SURPRISE Imports, however, beat expectations with a 4.0 percent rise year-on-year, much better than analysts' forecasts for a 3.6 percent fall and March's 7.6 percent drop. The gain was the first since November, suggesting domestic demand is starting to perk up as Beijing rolls out more stimulus, such as higher spending on roads, railways and ports. Imports of copper, widely used in construction and manufacturing, rose from March, but were down on-year. China's major trading partners, big multinational suppliers like Caterpillar and global investors have been closely watching to see how long it will take support measures announced in recent months to take hold. Tang Jianwei, a senior economist at Bank of Communications in Shanghai, said China stands to lose in either case. "If there is a set-back in trade talks, both external demand and domestic demand could be hit. If the U.S. and China reach a trade deal, China will have to step up imports form the U.S., which will reduce its trade surplus, which will reduce net exports' contribution to GDP growth," he said. China had an overall trade surplus of $13.84 billion in April, smaller than forecasts of $35 billion. Its trade surplus with the United States, a major irritant for Washington, widened to $21.01 billion in April, from $20.5 billion in March. China's imports from the U.S. fell nearly 26 percent while exports to the U.S. fell just over 13 percent. TRADE TURNABOUT? Some analysts believe recent signs of improvement in both the Chinese and American economies may have hardened their negotiating positions on trade after months of progress made when the business outlook appeared much more shaky. China posted surprisingly strong data for March, but initial April readings have been more subdued, suggesting the economy is still struggling for traction. Factory surveys for April suggested demand was improving at a much slower rate at home and abroad, adding to the debate over how much more stimulus China needs to generate a sustainable recovery, without risking a rapid jump in debt. "Weak growth in Chinese exports to the U.S. will also be concerning to Chinese officials, particularly amid a potential escalation in the trade war," said Nick Marro, an analyst at The Economist Intelligence Unit. "The data will add more urgency to the trade negotiations this week and could push China more forcefully towards an agreement, despite its past reluctance to negotiate under threat." Top U.S. trade officials said China had backtracked on substantial commitments it made earlier in trade talks. That prompted Trump to issue a new deadline of Friday to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods to 25 percent from 10 percent. Trump also threatened new levies soon. The swift deterioration in negotiations between the world's two largest economies has jolted global financial markets, which had been increasingly betting that a deal would be reached soon. Major stock indexes in trade-reliant Asia continued to fall on Wednesday, tracking a slide on Wall Street. "Today's exports data support our view that there is real risk of double dip in growth, and Beijing cannot afford to stop easing (policy) yet. With the rapid escalation of the trade conflict with the U.S., we believe Beijing will likely step up easing measures again," Nomura analysts wrote in a note. (Reporting by Yawen Chen and Kevin Yao; Editing by Kim Coghill) Stuff reports: A woman and man were kicked off an Air New Zealand flight in Wellington after they reportedly refused to pay attention to an airline safety briefing. If you just read that part, you might have sympathy for them. I dont always pay attention, especially if it is my second flight of the day. But theres more to it: The video started playing and the flight attendant held up the card, but the woman started looking down at her book. She soon picked up her phone, and both she and her male travel companion were looking at their phones, she said. A flight attendant said very patiently Can you please watch whats happening because this is the exit row. If you are in the exit row, you have agreed to help in an emergency and you do need to pay attention. Im often in the front row, and I will always put my device or book down and pay attention to the briefing especially when it isnt the video, but an actual flight attendant. The flight attendant was super kind and kept asking her, but the woman put her fingers in her ears. Wow, that is super rude. What twats. It was shockingly arrogant behaviour, the passenger said. They didnt seem to care that theyd delayed the plane for other passengers by 25 minutes, she said. Youd think theyd be embarrassed or mortified, but they seemed quite chuffed about the whole thing. When they were told that police were waiting for them, the woman pulled out her phone and loudly tried to make a booking with Jetstar, she said. Air New Zealand did really well in how they handled the situation, she said. I just felt for the flight attendants, because they got abused. A police spokeswoman said police were requested to meet one passenger at the airport on Tuesday morning. The passenger will receive an infringement notice under Civil Aviation Authority rules relating to the use of a cellphone, the spokeswoman said. Good. Share this: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Reddit WhatsApp More Pinterest Print Tumblr A lovely story from Radio NZ: In the Te Rapa district of Hamilton, Fonterra tanker drivers know that every evening their biggest fan will be waiting for them on a dairy farm on Reid Road. Fonterras milk tankers are Andrew Olivers favourite thing in the world and local tanker drivers have long known that Andrew wont go to bed until theyve been on the farm. But when it became unmanageable for his 65-year-old parents, the worlds biggest dairy exporter stepped in to help. They changed their milk tanker schedule in the entire district so that Andrew would go to bed on time. Andrew Oliver is one of about eight people in the world living with Fryns-Aftimos syndrome hes the oldest known to have it and the only one in New Zealand with the condition. The extremely rare syndrome is the result of a mutation in one of his chromosomes which means that, at 35 years old, he has the mental age of a 6-year-old and suffers many other symptoms. For the past 15 years hes had a special relationship with Fonterra tanker drivers. Ken Oliver, his father, said Andy discovered the tanker when the farm went onto the night shift for milk pick up. [He] learned what it was, came out to see it occasionally and once in awhile would talk to a driver. But then with Andy, the normal thing is with something like this it would become a habit. And so he had to be out to see the tanker. That became part of his nightly routine. Andys nightly routine consists of a list of things he has to tick off. Every night he draws a picture to give to the tanker driver, he has to watch the weather report on the 6pm news, then he has dinner and a bath. But the last thing to tick off is the tanker. As the parent of a toddler, I know it is all about the routine. Our current routine is dinner, bath, jumping (off the couch onto a crashpad of all the cushions), supper, tunneling (in our bed), teeth, potty, two books, sleeping bag, final book, cuddle, milk then sleep. It takes around two hours! And Ben wont let us miss any aspect of it. Ken said that if the tanker hadnt come, Andy wouldnt go to bed. For him, waking up at 5am to tend the farm, it became a struggle. We simply didnt know when the tanker was coming. You might get 2am in the morning or something like that and he wouldnt go to bed until the tanker had come. For over a decade, Andrews parents managed his tanker visits until one day Ken says he came to a breaking point. Deirdre had just been diagnosed with having had a minor stroke, I was absolutely out on my feet trying to keep the farm going. Surviving on three or four hours sleep and Id just run out. Id hit the wall and so I phoned the call centre and actually started crying on the phone, I was just so shot. I just said look, my life has just become impossible and just explained what was going on. I need sleep and I cant get sleep until this boys in bed. Amazing they lasted so long. After hearing about Kens call, the company decided to change their entire milk tanker schedule in the Te Rapa district to make sure Andy could get to bed on time. Ken is now guaranteed a pick up anywhere between 6:30pm and 8pm. Tanker driver Kevin said Andy draws them a picture each night and they put them up on the wall at work. Its not something we encounter everyday, we can tell you that Its a special relationship. On top of Andys rare syndrome, he also has five types of epilepsy. So the Te Rapa district tanker drivers have been briefed on health and safety procedures and what to do if Andy had a seizure during a tanker visit. A lot of us guys that have been here before, we know what to expect and we have an in cab screen which has a warning along the bottom to make sure drivers are reminded to be careful going down the track just in case Andys floating about, Kevin said. Thats programmed into the screen and would come up every time that vehicle comes into this farm, it would come up before we go. These drivers mean a lot to Andy, but Kevin says Andy means a lot to them too. We had one of our drivers come out and he noticed that Andys bike was looking a little bit dilapidated and he came back and sort of ran past the idea at a team brief meeting and we all thought that was a very good idea. So the districts tanker drivers held a sausage sizzle fundraiser to buy Andy a new bike and company staff from all around the world pitched in to help. Ken said riding his bike is one of the few things Andy can do independently, which makes visiting the tanker a huge part of his life. The power of human connections. Video below Share this: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Reddit WhatsApp More Pinterest Print Tumblr Dussling has been on the SD214 board for 21 years, the release states. An Arlington Heights resident for nearly 40 years, Dussling has received state and national accolades for education, including the Illinois State Board of Education Award of Excellence. As another year marked by the global pandemic comes to an end, our photojournalists remain challenged and, frequently, awed - by the constant state of change. We documented our ever-evolving world in ways few photo staffs could as we all worked to regain normalcy amid COVID-19s seemingly unbreakable hold on our communities. We showed the relieved faces of people receiving a coveted vaccine, telling the story of a scientific breakthrough with images of those benefitting from it. We covered new workplace policies, school protocols and policing practices. We traveled half-way across the world to an Olympics where the athletes couldnt hug each other, masked medalists step atop the podium and no one came to watch. The Chicago Tribune faced its own series of changes, too. We have new owners. New bosses. Endured another move. Gained new talented journalists and lost many others from the newsroom ranks. The one constant has been our dedication to providing photography on a daily basis that is relevant to the communities we cover: The joy of picnicking at the lakefront on a summer afternoon, the pain of children, police officers and neighbors all falling victims to violent crime. Documenting whos in and whos out in the political landscape, escaping to your favorite cultural event or sports competition. We hope this installment of the annual Photos of the Year project reminds us of the moments that shaped our lives and the thoughtful way we portray them. Its also a platform for acknowledging the talent and dedication of Tribune photographers, and all photojournalists, who make change a way of life. The Chicago Tribune staff photographers for 2021: Brian Cassella, Erin Hooley, Terrence Antonio James, Vashon Jordan Jr., John J. Kim, Youngrae Kim, Jose M. Osorio, Antonio Perez, Armando L. Sanchez, Chris Sweda, Abel Uribe, E. Jason Wambsgans, Stacey Wescott and Raquel Zaldivar. Tribune visual editors: Mark Hume, Andrew Johnston, Marianne Mather, Steve Rosenberg and Peter Tsai. - Todd Panagopoulos, Director of Content/Visuals A wing was added to the west side of the building in 1952 and it was probably shortly after that was done that drop ceilings were installed throughout the old section of the school for better heating efficiency, according to the release. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was created in Chicago by Montgomery Ward copywriter Robert L. May to sell toys in 1939. Heres how the popular Christmas character and its author went down in history. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was created in Chicago: Here's how the story became a book, song and TV special Auburn, IN (46706) Today Rain showers early with overcast skies later in the day. Morning high of 56F with temps falling to near 45. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight A few clouds from time to time. Low near 30F. Winds light and variable. Several actresses denied the rumors about their involvement with Seungri's sex scandal. According to the report, actress Go Joon-hee filed a libel suit against 12 people who spread false rumors about her possibly being one of the unnamed actress mentioned by Seungri's infamous group chat. Han Hyo-Joo, Jung Eun-Chae, and Kim Go-Eun also denied their involvement in the party. Go Joon-hee threatened to sue those that are spreading rumors for defamation. She said she is not the one labeled in the group chat as "an actress in New York, therefore unavailable to provide sexual services for Seungri's overseas investors." The lawyer of the actress spoke up and said, "There will be no change in Go's no-mercy policy towards rumor spreaders and she will take every possible legal measure, including civil and criminal suits, against anyone who spreads groundless stories about her." It was 4th of May when Go Joon-hee's lawyer said, "Recently, regarding the Burning Sun case that has been suffering from criticism of society, the online community is spreading unfounded rumors about Go Joon Hee such as 'actress in Seungri's group chat room', 'actress who went to New York', etc. In the situation when the false rumors are spread widely and seriously, the television station and the producer have felt the pressure from the Burning Sun case and advised Go Joon Hee to leave the show." The lawyer also added, Go Joon Hee didn't decide to withdraw from the program herself. As an actress who is damaged by groundless information from people who spread malicious rumors, Go Joon Hee clearly had to suffer damages that are hard to recover. However, she will actively find all feasible measures, including a criminal lawsuit to prove her innocence." He emphasized, "Due to groundless rumors of malicious rumor-mongers, Go Joon Hee has suffered serious damage as many of the contracts she has carried out over the past time have been ruined. I think that a person's life is mercilessly trampled by the malicious and indiscriminate circulation of false information of those who are hiding under the anonymous shadow on the Internet is unacceptable." Go made her statement and said, "I couldn't stay silent any longer about the recent rampant rumors about me, which are hurting my family and fans. After the broadcast of Unanswered Questions two weeks ago, I received many phone calls from acquaintances who saw my name in related search results (for the Seungri sex scandal). Because it has nothing to do with me, I did not respond to the speculation. But, now the situation is snowballing every day. She added, Like the center of the rumor, whether it is true or not, I became a victim. Regarding the scandal, it is painful that victims - not perpetrators - get all the attention, consumed as the subject of gossip and criticized." We hope to unlock the truth and hopefully, we don't point our fingers to the wrong person. Apink's Jeong Eun Ji is coming to Singapore for her first solo concert. The concert is slated to take place at Zepp@BigBox on June 9. Debuted solo in 2016, the multi-talented Eun Ji came back last October with her third mini album 'HyeHwa', where she participated in the production for all the tracks. Tickets to "Jeong Eun Ji 1st Singapore Concert [HyeHwa]" will be available starting May 11, 2019 at 12PM via Apactix. Apart from Singapore, Eun Ji will also be visiting Taipei (4 May) and Hong Kong (18 and 19 May). Here are the Official Ticketing Details: TICKETING INFORMATION Event: Jeong Eun Ji 1st Singapore Concert [HyeHwa] Date: 9th June 2019 Time: 7pm Venue: Zepp@BigBox Ticket Prices/Categories: *Ticketing Charges Apply VIP (SEATED) - SGD 248 GOLD (SEATED) - SGD 178 SILVER (SEATED) - SGD 118 FAN BENEFITS VIP Ticket Holders - Lucky Draw for a Rehearsal pass (500 Winners) Singapore Pandas, make sure to grab your tickets. Carter's mother, told investigators her son did not have any weapons and that she believed the officer shot Carter because "he is a big guy," the report said. She also indicated that her son and the officer were not standing close to each other, though she was not on the front porch when the shooting happened, according to reports. The report also notes that when Carter's mother was shown a photograph of the suspect in the bank robbery she identified him as her son. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- For the first quarter of the year, Chinas vehicle outputs and sales were 6,335,700 units and 6,372,400 units, falling 9.81% and 11.32% over a year ago respectively, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM). The continuous year-on-year sales downturn also reflected on the financial performance for automakers in this country. By compiling the data announced by eight China-based automakers, Gasgoo found out that most of them recorded double-digit decrease in Q1 net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company or the parent company. Nevertheless, there was still an eye-catching number on the above table631.98%, an astonishing year-on-year surge for BYD. SAIC Motor As Chinas most lucrative auto group, SAIC Motor saw its net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company in the first quarter slide 15% year on year to RMB8.251 billion, according to its Q1 report released on April 29. Meanwhile, the automaker generated a total of operating income of RMB200.192 billion from January to March, down by 16.18% over the previous year. The drop of quarterly operating income and net profit were relevant to its Q1 sales drop to a great extent. SAIC Motor saw its Q1 sales apparently slide 15.88% from the previous year to 1,533,005 vehicles, among which the March sales shrank 14% to 558,558 units, the seventh month in a row for the company facing year-on-year downturn. BAIC Motor BAIC Motor Corporation Limited (BAIC Motor) stated that its operating income for the first quarter totaled RMB46.752 billion, growing 17.45% compared with RMB39.806 billion a year earlier. The Q1 net profit dropped 12.73% year on year to RMB3.552 billion, among which the net profit attributable to owners of the parent amounted to RMB1.232 billion with a double-digit decline of 22.77%. Besides, total operating costs by the end of March this year jumped 17.83% to RMB40.236 billion. To be specific, the quarterly operating costs (RMB33.649 billion), selling expense (RMB4.451 billion) and R&D costs (RMB98.433 million) surged 23.36%, 41.44% and 29.69% respectively from the year-ago period. BYD BYD reported on April 26 that its operating income in the first quarter jumped 22.5% year on year to RMB30.304 billion and the quarterly net profit attributable to shareholders of the public company skyrocketed 631.98% to RMB749.732 million. The automaker expected the net profit for the first half of 2019 to surge over 50% over the year-ago period buoyed by strong demands for new energy vehicles (NEVs), the soon-to-be-finished upgrade of the Dynasty series models and the increasingly rich new energy commercial vehicle lineup. From January to June, the total net profit attributable to shareholders is likely to reach RMB1.45 billion to RMB1.65 billion, soaring 202.65% to 244.40% compared with RMB479.1 million earned in the same period last year. For the second quarter, BYD said it is expected to face year-on-year downturn in fuel-burning vehicles affected by the sliding market demands and phase-out of outdated models, and record net loss in photovoltaic business due to the depressed market needs. Great Wall Motor Great Wall Motors total operating income in the first quarter shrank 14.85% over the previous year to RMB22.627 billion, the automaker announced on April 30. The quarterly net profit attributable to shareholders of the public company reached RMB773.283 million, plunging 62.84% year on year. Excluding the non-recurring gains and losses, net profit was RMB643.462 million, still presenting a sharp decline of 69.72%. Besides, the weighted average return on assets and the basic earnings per share for the first quarter were 1.46% and RMB0.08. For the first three months of the year, the automakers expenses of sales, management and R&D amounted to RMB596 million, RMB307 million and RMB362 million, slumping 46.2%, growing 10.83% and leaping 27.92% respectively year on year. Changan Automobile Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd said on April 30 that its operating income in the first quarter of the year slumped 20% over the previous year to RMB16.008 billion. Meanwhile, the quarterly net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company reached RMB2.096 billion, a year-on-year nosedive of 250.62%. The net profit excluding non-recurring gains and losses sharply plunged 341% from the year-ago period to RMB2.161 billion. Besides, basic earnings per share for the first quarter were RMB0.44, compared with RMB0.29 for the same period a year earlier. Weighted average return on net assets amounted to -4.62%, down by 7.5 percentage points from a year ago. As at the end of reporting period, the companys total asset was RMB95.867 billion, with 2.54% increase compared with the beginning of the year. The total liability was RMB51.528 billion, with 8.86% growth over the beginning of the year. The debt asset ratio was 53.75%, which was 3.12 percentage points higher than the beginning of the year. JAC Motors JAC Motors saw the operating income grow 13.76% to RMB14.633 billion for Q1, 2019 from RMB12.864 billion for Q1, 2018. However, the Jan.-Mar. net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company violently declined 69.13% year on year to RMB64.636 million. Excluding the non-recurring gains and losses, the company even came across a net loss (attributable to shareholders) up to RMB34.133 million. The weighted average return on assets for the first three months was 0.5%, dropping by 1.00 percentage point, while basic earnings per share plunged 72.73% year on year from RMB0.11 to RMB0.03. It is noteworthy that as of the reporting date, the net cash flows from operating activities were increased by RMB2.537 billion to RMB28.556 million mainly thanks to the growth in received payment of goods during this reporting term. GAC Group GAC Groups operating income for the first quarter reached RMB14.256 billion, slumping 25.74% compared with the same period last year, the automaker reported on April 29. Meanwhile, the company saw its quarterly net profit attributable to shareholders of the public company tumble 28.4% year on year to RMB2.778 billion. Excluding non-recurring gains and losses, the Q1 net profit amounted to RMB2.21 billion, plunging 41.87% over a year ago. In addition, the weighted average return on equity was 3.56%, compared with 5.44% for Q1 in 2017. Basic earnings per share declined to RMB0.27 from RMB0.38 a year earlier. Zotye Auto Chinas privately owned carmaker Zotye Auto generated RMB3.969 billion in Q1 operating income, suffering a double-digit decrease of 27.11%. In the meantime, the net profit attributable to shareholders of the listed company also fell 24.85% over the previous year to RMB105.922 million. The non-recurring-excluded net profit was RMB100.382 million, showing a decrease of 28.19% compared with the same period a year earlier. The automaker also reported that the net cash flows from operating activities from the beginning of year to the end of report term were RMB927.902 million, down from RMB569.431 million a year ago. WILLIAMS BAY I have always been curious about the history of the area I call home. I wonder how places got their names and why some roads have the names they do, such as Voree on the Walworth/Racine county line near Burlington, or Hodunk Road near Elkhorn. Ive imagined the sadness that must have shown in the eyes of Chief Big Foot as he looked out over his lake for the last time. As he visited the final resting places of his wives in Williams Bay and his son, overlooking the lake. As he bid farewell to Mrs. Van Slyke. As he and his band of Potawatomi began their long trek to the prairies of Iowa and Kansas in 1836. What did the early settlers think when they first saw the prairies and oak savannas where they would carve out a new life? So, when I was given the opportunity to use my education and experience to help design and develop the Williams Bay Historical Societys new newsletter and website in 2013, I jumped at the chance to explore the history of the area. In conversation, we kicked around the idea of a coffee table book. In January of 2016, Deborah Dumelle Kristmann and I began to seriously investigate the real idea of a book. We found the high cost of publishing a coffee table was prohibitive, but discovered other publishing options, which resulted in the decision to co-author A Pictorial History of Williams Bay, Wisconsin On Beautiful Geneva Lake for the historical society that was published in July 2017. Our research brought us in contact with many interesting people who shared their family pictures and stories of Williams Bay. We received information from the historian of the Ashfield, Massachusetts, Historical Society, who provided us with little-known facts about Israel Williams, founder of Williams Bay, and his family. The archivists at both the county and state historical societies helped to locate valuable information, as did our local libraries. And finally, newspapers from the late 1800s and early 1900s were a priceless resource. It was during this research that I was given a copy of Reminisces by U.S. Hollister whose family members were early settlers of Darien Township. Not to be left out, Williams Bay and East Delavan have a Hollister connection as well. Frank Van Epps, editor of Bay Leaves, interviewed Albert Hollister, whose father arrived in the Wisconsin Territory in 1837. My interest was piqued, and I began to dig deeper. My first find was a digitized version of an old book titled, The Hollister Family in America, published in 1886, which traced the descendants of Lieutenant John Hollister. Edward Brigham Hollister and Cyrenus Newcomb Hollister, two early pioneers, could trace their lineage back to Lieutenant John Hollister. Lieutenant Hollister was born in England in 1612 and married Johanna Treat in England. They immigrated to America about 1642. Lieutenant Hollister was a prominent man in Wethersfield in the Connecticut Colony, holding numerous official positions representing Wethersfield until his death in approximately 1665. They had nine children who were all born in Wethersfield. John Hollister Jr. born about 1644, married Sarah Goodrich on Nov. 20, 1667, in Glastonbury, Hartford County, Connecticut Colony. John Jr. and Sarah had 10 children. John Jr. was a principal player in Glastonbury until his death in 1711. Further research took me to Ancestry, Family Search, Find a Grave and the discovery of a letter written by Maria Hollister (wife of Cyrenus) to her parents in New York State only days after their arrival on the Rock Prairie in Darien Township. The letter preserved by generations of the family was published in a local newspaper. I knew then I had to share the story of theses early Walworth County pioneers. In the spring of 1839, Cyrenus Hollister, along with his young wife Maria and eight-month-old son Uriah, left their home in Ulster County, New York State, to homestead in the Wisconsin Territory. The family traveled by cart to Ithaca and by canal to Buffalo. In Buffalo, they boarded a steamer to Milwaukee. On arrival in Milwaukee, Maria and Uriah stayed in a boarding house while Cyrenus continued on to the Rock Prairie in Walworth County to make a land claim in Section 4 and 5 of Darien Township. After purchasing his claim at the land office in Milwaukee, Cyrenus purchased a wagon and oxen for $155 from Mr. Keltner, owner of the boarding house. The road was rough from Milwaukee to the Fox River, and it took four days to get to their new home. While Cyrenus and his brother William, who had arrived in Darien Township a year earlier, built a house on the homestead, the family lived in a little abandoned cabin nearby. Uriah would write many years, The cabin had no fireplace or chimney, and of course no stove. Mother did all the cooking outdoors with only a frying pan, tea kettle, and a baking kettle. Uriah would also recall of the familys new home: The house was built of oak which was cut and hewed by hand for the frame, rafters, sills and studs. Wood shingles were cut, split and shaved using a heavy wedge-shaped blade. Oak logs were hauled to Maxons sawmill for siding. Maxons grist and sawmill was located along Turtle Creek in what was once known as Maxonville, then Plugtown, and finally Fairfield. The house, which was about 18 x 24 feet, had no partitions on the main level or in the loft where the children slept. In time the main level was plastered, and about 1845 an addition was put on the house. While exploring the homestead, my father found a swarm of bees in a low-hanging branch of an oak tree. Using a board and saw, he built a rough hive that he set alongside the tree; this hive was the first of many that would serve other swarms that supplied us with honey for over 40 years. In a letter to her parents, Maria wrote about her new home: I expected to see fine country, but it is much more beautiful than I had any idea of. Our land is 30 acres of prairie, and the rest is oak. We got winter wheat for 10 shillings and spring wheat for one dollar, corn for four shillings, and potatoes for one shilling. Pork is 10 to 13 cents a pound. Where the grist and sawmill is, they will have a store this summer and they intend to have all kinds of machinery as the country needs. Maria continued noting the shortcomings of their new home: There are no schools near where we are nor regular (church) meetings. They have preachings once every three or four weeks four miles from us. I think these disadvantages will soon be done away as the population increases. I think in a few years, there will be transportation by railroad. Cyrenus farmed his land, which was located at Hollister Corner, now the junction of highways 11, 14, and 89, until about 1866 when he and Maria moved to a house in Delavan. Cyrenus died in January 1890. Maria died 12 years later on May 8, 1902. Their final resting place is in Spring Grove Cemetery in Delavan. In 1842, two friends from New York State who had heard the call of the west took a boat from Buffalo to Southport (now Kenosha). They were Edward Hollister and John Whiteman, both only kids of 17. They walked from Southport to Geneva making land claims in Delavan Township. Edwards claim was in Section 24 of the township. Seven years later, Edward married Harriet Ann Eaton in Geneva, Kane County, Illinois. Their first child, a son named Jehial Eaton, was born in 1850; their only daughter, Cordelia, was born in 1851; and son Albert was born in 1854. Edward farmed his land in Delavan Township until his death in 1891. Edward and Harriet are buried in Spring Grove Cemetery. It is likely letters back to New York describing the fertile land and opportunities induced other members of the Hollister families to pioneer land in the Wisconsin Territory. Only a few years after Cyrenus made his land claim, his brother, Lemuel, purchased a farm in Section 4 of Darien Township. Marias parents, Alexander and Nellie Smith Latimer, and brothers Ebenezer, Peter, and James settled in Darien Township and Delavan. Edwards parents, Seth L. and Catherine Brigham Hollister, and four of his siblings, Jane Catherine, George Henry, James Heath, and Milton, left their home in Genesee County, New York, purchasing land near Edward in Delavan Township. Members of these early Hollister and Latimer families would be prominent citizens of Delavan, Darien Township, Williams Bay, and beyond. Michelle Bie Love is a member of the Williams Bay Historical Society and co-author of A Pictorial History of Williams Bay, Wisconsin On Beautiful Geneva Lake. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Taste of Lake Geneva festival is coming to an end after 10 years of showcasing Lake Genevas local eating establishments. Organizers at the Lake Geneva Business Improvement District have announced that they will not be bringing the outdoor food festival back in 2019. Bridget Leech, executive director of the downtown business district, said the Taste of Lake Geneva no longer meet her organizations mission. The event was always a great day, and we appreciate every restaurant that has taken part in it, Leech said. This event is not one that brought the greatest value to the organization. Started about 10 years ago, the food festival was held in September for many years, but organizers last year moved it to June to coincide with the kickoff for Lake Genevas Restaurant Week. Last years festival included about a dozen restaurants along with live music in the citys downtown Flat Iron Park. Nicolas Carone, owner of Franks Original hot dog place, said he was disappointed that organizers were dropping the event. Carone said he always got a positive response when he participated in the Taste of Lake Geneva. We had a lot of people show up, he said. It was a way to get our name out there. The Taste of Lake Geneva featured participating restaurants setting up vendor booths to allow people to sample food items. The event also included live music and other activities. Leech said the Business Improvement District plans to experiment with new activities such as a Wine Walk scheduled for May 12. Participating businesses will offer samples of wine and snack items as part of the walk. Daneen Soliday, sales manager for the Geneva Inn, said she was surprised to learn that the Taste of Lake Geneva was being dropped. The inns restaurant participated in the festival for several years. Soliday said she hopes the event will return some time in the future. Sometimes events have to die and come back, she said. Maybe three years from now, somebody will say, Whatever happened to the Taste of Lake Geneva,? and they will bring it back. Leech said she hopes another organization will bring back the food festival. Carone said he, too, hopes for a revival. He said he enjoyed interacting with the other vendors at the event. It was a lot of fun, he said. San Francisco, May 8: Samsung Electronics has said that it cannot confirm the shipping date for "Galaxy Fold" smartphone, tendering an apology to its pre-order customers in the US for the delay. According to a report in Forbes on Tuesday, the South Korean giant has announced it is going to start automatically cancelling orders for its highly-anticipated foldable device that faced problems with its display. Google I/O 2019: Google Focusing on Foldable Phones Even After Samsung Galaxy Fold Embarrassment. Samsung admitted that currently, it "cannot confirm the anticipated ship date yet". "If we do not hear from you and we have not shipped by May 31st, your order will be cancelled automatically," Samsung told customers in an email. Those who have ordered the $2,000 device would still get the device if they specifically tell Samsung that they want to receive it. Unless customers say so, the US Federal Trade Commission regulations mean that Samsung must cancel all Galaxy Fold pre-orders if it failed to release the device before May 31. Google's AI Forecasting Service Can Predict Floods With 75 Percent Precision; To Be Rolled Out in India Before Monsoons. Just when the industry through innovation in the smartphone business had hit stagnation, Samsung wowed the world with its first foldable device "Galaxy Fold," worth a whopping $2,000. The super-premium phone that took almost a decade in the making opens like a book when unfolded. However, the expectations took a beating when reports of the Galaxy Fold issues surfaced. The units given to international tech reviewers encountered display distortion and screen flickering issues, forcing the South Korean giant to postpone its launch in Hong Kong and Shanghai on April 23 and 24 respectively, and issue a recall of review units. Defending its devices just days before its roll-out, a Samsung spokesperson assured that the firm would "thoroughly inspect" the units. The Galaxy Fold is expected to be priced around Rs 1,40,790 in India. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 08, 2019 01:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Zell had acquired the mall in 1987 for about $75 million. He took out a $114.5 million mortgage on the mall in 1993. Whats not known is how much he owed on the loan when iStar, which acquired the debt, seized the property. Its also unclear how much iStar paid for the debt or how much it was seeking for the mall. Jeff Balbien joined the Los Angeles Times as the vice president of engineering in 2018, leading the development and modernization of the tools, services and infrastructure powering the newspapers digital platforms. Before joining The Times, Balbien was the principal software engineer for NantHealth, developing APIs and integrations for the Precision Insights customer and order management portal. He was a core contributor to the companys modern microservices architecture and led the technical integration between the Precision Insights portal and GPS Cancer platform. Prior to that, Balbien spent several years at NantMobile, developing and productizing a cutting-edge recognition platform enabling 2D image, 3D object and live TV recognition from a mobile device. He helped lead development of the iD platform, a suite of APIs, SDKs and content management tools enabling developers to use the companys technology in their own applications. In 2012, Balbien and the NantMobile team partnered with The Times to launch a mobile augmented reality experience for coverage of the Summer Olympics. Balbien was also one of the founding employees of Bestcovery.com, a site that helps consumers select products and services, overseeing product development of the companys platform. Advertisement Balbien holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California. Chris Pavone has built a loyal following by writing thrillers that sneak in a whole lot more than just spycraft. In The Expats, his propulsive Edgar Award-winning debut, heroine Kate Moore is an American spy living in Luxembourg whose job, with its secrets and subterfuge, is driving a wedge between her and her feckless husband, Dexter, a computer banking expert who harbors a few secrets of his own. Kate and her boss, Hayden Grey, make a cameo appearance in The Accident, Pavones second thriller ostensibly set in the world of publishing, but with financial and espionage undertones that spice up the action. The third, The Travelers, involves a globe-trotting writer in a troubled marriage working for an eponymous travel magazine/agency thats not exactly what it seems. In addition to characters with something to hide, a hallmark of Pavones writing has been its increasingly frenetic pace, jumping around Europe, New York City and the world at a clip that keeps the thrills coming and the pages turning, sometimes at the expense of logic or character development. More than anything, a Pavone thriller can make a reader worry whether the heroes will be OK, even after the book is finished, an unsettling thought for genre fans. One suspects that Pavone had the same concerns, because in The Paris Diversion, he returns to the redoubtable expats Kate and Dexter, living in the citys 7th arrondissement since the disastrous events in Luxembourg strained their marriage and almost got them killed. Kates feeling marginalized in her CIA job, and Dexter, now a day trader, has a tip that could rebuild the familys finances, which took a hit in Luxembourg. But while the venue has changed, old suspicions between the couple have not: For the past couple of years shes been telling herself that she could trust Dexter again, that she should. But once trust is destroyed, can it ever be entirely rebuilt? While marital distrust is another feature of Pavones literary tradecraft, the stakes in The Paris Diversion are considerably higher a jihadi named Mahmoud has been transported to a plaza in front of the Louvre, strapped into a vest full of explosives and carrying a suspicious satchel, the sight of which paralyzes the city. The chaos also threatens to derail a major acquisition to be announced by Hunter Forsyth, the American chief executive of 4Syte, a multinational conglomerate. Advertisement Echoing the 2015 attack on Charlie Hebdo magazine and the coordinated terrorist attacks on the city late that year, The Paris Diversion moves quickly, taking readers all over Paris, with a few side trips to Venice. In addition to Mahmoud, theres Wyatt, an American contractor abetting the suicide bomber for personal rather than ideological reasons, and others who are part of the conspiracy. Opposing them are the Paris police and Ibrahim Abid, a Muslim police sharpshooter more Parisian than all those carpetbaggers, though not necessarily as French, stationed above the Louvre awaiting his orders. In addition to Forsyth, his thoughts shuttling between the billions he hopes to make and his romantic yearning for his French assistant, there is that State Department official who is not exactly who he appears to be, either. The Paris Diversion author Chris Pavone. (Sam McIntosh) Once Kate fully grasps that the nature of the threat to her, Dexter and their family is bigger and more personal than the crisis at hand, she springs into action to thwart the attack by tapping into her CIA network and Travelers International Booking Service. Some readers will recognize the New York conglomerate and its employees from Pavones third novel. Suffice it to say that Travelers and Inez, who runs the companys Paris office, provide a unique off-the-books approach to espionage vital to catching those behind the conspiracy and saving the bacon of Kate and the hapless Dexter. But who exactly is behind the threat? Is it an Al Qaeda or Islamic State plot, home-grown terrorists or someone else? After all, as Kates boss Hayden Gray once said, a carefully orchestrated disaster can be the perfect diversion. Diversion is Pavones specialty, which he employs here with panache, clockwork precision and a great command of Paris locales, even if the underlying culprits and motives make fans of the Expats Universe feel its been there-done that. But the question for Kate can one atone for past mistakes to become a better person? might be answered by finding a smarter husband. :: The Paris Diversion Chris Pavone Crown: 384 pp., $27 Woods is a book critic, editor and author of several anthologies and crime novels. A long-vacant prime lot on Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills has sold for $130 million to an international partnership that plans to build upmarket condominiums on the site. New York luxury real estate developer Shvo bought the block-long property at 9200 Wilshire Blvd. from New Pacific Realty Corp., which had secured city approval for construction of a residential and retail complex there. With its location in the vaunted Golden Triangle of Beverly Hills, the lot, flanked by Maple and Palm drives, is widely regarded as one of the best sites in the region for high-end development. Shvo bought the property in a joint venture with Turkish investor Bilgili Group and German institutional funds managed by Deutsche Finance, Shvo said Wednesday. Advertisement The purchase is the groups third joint venture. Earlier this year, it bought the historic Art Deco-style Raleigh Hotel in Miami for $103 million. Last year, the group bought a portion of a building on Fifth Avenue in New York that it is converting into Mandarin Oriental Residences luxury condos. In Beverly Hills, Shvo plans to follow through on the city-approved development, which calls for 54 residences in a seven-story structure designed by MVE + Partners. Among its prominent features will be a glass-clad exterior, a rooftop swimming pool and shops and restaurants wrapping a central courtyard fronting Wilshire Boulevard. Our residential concept will offer the highest quality of living and amenities, said Chairman Michael Shvo in a statement. A representative of the developer declined to comment on how much units might cost or when construction will begin. Beverly Hills-based New Pacific, led by developers David Margulies and Arnold Rosenstein, bought the site for $16.5 million in 2010, according to real estate data provider CoStar. Its sale is not the first time New Pacific has substantially profited from acquiring a prime local site and securing development approvals from the city. In 2007, British developers paid New Pacific $500 million for the former site of a Robinsons-May department store at 9900 Wilshire Blvd. New Pacific had acquired the property three years earlier for $33.5 million and garnered city approval for a luxury condo and retail complex there. That property passed through multiple owners until it was acquired for an undisclosed price last year by Cain International and Alagem Capital Group, the owners of the Beverly Hilton and Waldorf Astoria hotels next door. Boeing Co. met with 737 Max operators and lessors in Amsterdam on Tuesday, the first of about six sessions planned around the world as the plane maker lays the groundwork for resuming commercial flights of the aircraft after two deadly crashes. Executives are using the sessions to discuss how to maintain the jetliners, which were grounded days after a March 10 disaster, Boeing spokesman Gordon Johndroe said. The meetings will also touch on plans to turn the fleet back on once regulators clear the Max to fly. Other topics include pilot training, software updates and a public campaign to bolster the jets bruised reputation. We know that we have a number of areas where we need to improve, including transparency, Johndroe said in an interview. Boeing is stepping up customer outreach two days after revealing it had known long before the first 737 Max crash in October that a cockpit alert wasnt working the way buyers of the jet had been told. The manufacturer is also finalizing an update for software that in both accidents pushed the planes nose down until pilots lost control. Advertisement The changes will need to be certified by aviation regulators before the jet is cleared to resume commercial flights, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration announced a new panel to review the software. The decision to return the Max to commercial service rests in the hands of global regulators, Johndroe said. In anticipation of that day, we are meeting with our customers in regional conferences to talk through the activities to prepare the fleet and implement the software and training requirements. How a 50-year-old design came back to haunt Boeing The FAA is convening a panel of outside experts from the Air Force, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and a Transportation Department center to review Boeings software fixes for the Max. The panels recommendations will directly inform the FAAs decision concerning the 737 Max fleets safe return to service, the U.S. regulator said in a statement announcing the Technical Advisory Board. The FAA and Boeing have been working closely on the software update, but the Chicago-based plane maker hasnt completed its work. The new panel is separate from two other existing reviews created by the FAA. The agency has called for a summit of international regulators later this month to discuss its safety analysis of the aircraft. The FAA is also conducting a Joint Authorities Technical Review, which consists of eight other countries and the European Aviation Safety Agency, that will examine the Maxs original certification. That work is expected to take three months, with initial meetings held in Seattle last week. The European Aviation Safety Agency is running its own review of the 737 Maxs design and vowed not to allow flights of Boeings top-selling jet until its probe is finished. The U.S. Export-Import Bank once again has the ability to back deals of more than $10 million for the first time since 2015 after the Senate on Wednesday confirmed President Trumps three nominees. Senators confirmed Kimberly Reed for president of the bank, and former Rep. Spencer Bachus and Judith DelZoppo Pryor to the board of directors, providing the quorum needed to approve large deals. The nominees were confirmed despite objections from conservative Republicans who say the bank provides corporate welfare for wealthy manufacturing and aerospace companies. The Ex-Im Bank says it has almost $40 billion in pending transactions awaiting consideration by the board, which would support an estimated 230,000 jobs. Created during the Great Depression, the bank helps foreign companies buy U.S. products when private banks wont provide independent financing. Advertisement Ex-Im has operated to benefit the wealthiest and the most politically connected businesses in America, as well as their overseas clients, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) said Tuesday on the Senate floor. Its no coincidence that Ex-Im has been nicknamed Boeings bank when Ex-Im financing was at its peak. The Ex-Im Banks biggest beneficiaries include manufacturing and aerospace companies such as Boeing and General Electric Co., and big banks, like JPMorgan Chase & Co., that help finance deals. The bank was nearly killed off during President Obamas administration. Congress allowed its charter to expire for about six months in 2015, but even after lawmakers reauthorized the bank, most of the five spots on its board remained vacant, meaning it couldnt approve large deals. Sen. Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), long a critic of the bank, had blocked nominees to the its board while he was chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. He is now Appropriations Committee chairman. Attorneys general from 33 states on Wednesday urged Congress to approve a proposal intended to fully open the doors of the U.S. banking system to the legal marijuana industry. Most Americans live in states where marijuana is legally available in some form. But most banks want nothing to do with money from the cannabis industry for fear it could expose them to legal trouble from the federal government, which still considers marijuana illegal. This is simple: not incorporating an $8.3 billion industry into our banking system is hurting our public safety and economy, said California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra, whose state is the nations largest legal pot shop. The bill would reward taxpayers and small and local licensed businesses who play by the rules, he said in a statement. Advertisement The conflict between state and federal law has left many growers and sellers in the burgeoning pot industry in a legal dilemma, shutting them out of everyday financial services such as opening a bank account or obtaining a credit card. It also has forced many businesses to operate only in cash sometimes vast amounts making them ripe targets for crime. Plans for a state-backed pot bank arent feasible, a study says The pending bill would allow pot businesses to access loans, lines of credit and other banking services and would shelter financial institutions from prosecution for handling money that is linked to pot. In a letter to congressional leaders, the attorneys general also argue that under existing law, authorities are less able to track potential financial crimes and that it is more difficult for businesses to pay tax deposits and for states to collect those tax deposits. The number of banks and credit unions willing to handle pot money is growing, but they still represent only a tiny fraction of the industry. One of the bills sponsors, Rep. Ed Perlmutter (D-Colo.), said the endorsement from the state officials underscores the need to respect states rights on this issue and make our communities safer by allowing the marijuana industry and related businesses access to the banking system. Along with California, states signing the letter included attorneys general from Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. It was also signed by attorneys general from the District of Columbia, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Fresh off inking a multiyear contract with 20th Century Fox Television, director-producer Jason Winer is looking to cut a deal for his Hancock Park home. The 1920s Mediterranean is on the market for $4.295 million. Thats around $700,000 more than he paid for it six years ago, records show. Beamed ceilings and arched doorways keep the home in touch with its roots, but the 4,543-square-foot floor plan introduces some 21st century elements as well. Modern fixtures top the living spaces and eye-catching colors make cameos as well. A navy blue wall of built-ins anchors the family room, and the kitchen wears a bold palette of black, white and gray. Advertisement The main level also holds a skylighted foyer with a sweeping staircase, a step-down living room with a fireplace, a music room and formal dining room. Upstairs, theres a stately wood-paneled office and three bedrooms one of which opens to a Juliet balcony. In total, there are five bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms across two stories. Palm trees top the backyard, where a covered loggia adjoins a swimming pool and spa. The landscaped grounds cover a quarter of an acre. Best known for directing and producing Modern Family, Winer has been nominated for two Emmys for his work on the sitcom. More recently, he holds credits as a director and producer on Life in Pieces and Single Parents. Jack Graniti of Pacifica West Properties holds the listing. jack.flemming@latimes.com | Twitter: @jflem94 It was a protest that dealt Uber its biggest blow. When taxi drivers in New York City rallied against President Trumps travel ban in 2017, Uber became a scapegoat for continuing to operate leading hundreds of thousands of riders to delete the app as a result. On Wednesday, just days before Uber is expected to begin trading in one of the tech worlds most anticipated initial public offerings, the company must again contend with a protest. This time, Uber drivers in 10 U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, San Francisco and Washington, as well as some European locations like London, staged strikes Wednesday over what they describe as unfair pay and a lack of transparency. Drivers in Los Angeles are participating in a 24-hour strike and picket line at Los Angeles International Airport. But the demonstrations did not seem to cause much disruption, and many riders were still able to hail a car with ease. Unlike the viral social media outrage surrounding the #deleteUber campaign two years ago, the biggest risk to Uber isnt that customers take notice. Advertisement Its that legislators take heed. While previous demonstrations against ride-hailing companies aimed to alter company policy or change customer perception, organizers say their goal is to persuade legislators to look into mandatory minimum wages, caps on companies commissions, and clarity for riders and drivers on costs and pay. Gig workers have no sort of protections that labor rights activists fought years for, said Rebecca Stack Martinez, an Uber and Lyft driver who is helping to organize a strike in San Francisco. The eight-hour workday, vacation pay sick time, those kinds of things. I think its going to be left up to legislators to step in and actually say, No, you have to treat your workers fairly regardless of how you classify them. Ubers past is still haunting its business Pressuring legislators is a strategic play. In SEC filings, both Uber and Lyft recognize that any regulatory threat to the independent contractor model the companies have relied on to grow quickly and affordably would handicap their still-unprofitable businesses and hamper their ability to show growth to investors. The companies have already suffered blows to the model in crucial markets. Legislators in New York City have instated minimum wage requirements for Uber and Lyft drivers a decision that Lyft tried and failed to overturn and that has led both companies to stop hiring new drivers in the city. California legislators are in the midst of attempting to codify a state Supreme Court decision that makes it harder to classify workers as independent contractors. The ruling has largely left tech companies unscathed, however. On the day of Lyfts initial public offering in March, Los Angeles drivers met with representatives from Gov. Gavin Newsoms office. Also in March, Martinez and a group of San Francisco drivers visited legislators in Sacramento to talk about how Uber and Lyft classify them as independent contractors to avoid covering benefits and providing steady wages. It was very clear that they had spent hours in front of Uber and Lyft, lobbyists, but had had no idea what it was like from the drivers perspective, she said. On May 8, legislators are going to be listening, you know, and theyre going to realize that it has now gotten to the point that they do need to do something about it. The impending protests have garnered support from the likes of presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) as well as international driver groups. Uber says it cant pay its drivers more money, but rewarded its CEO with nearly $50 million last year, Sanders tweeted. People who work for multibillion-dollar companies should not have to work 70 or 80 hours a week to get by. I stand with the Uber and Lyft drivers going on strike on May 8. According to Uber, the company has paid out $78.2 billion in earnings to drivers since 2015 and $1.2 billion in tips. The company had 3.9 million drivers on its platform for the quarter that ended in December 2018. The company said in a statement to the Los Angeles Times that drivers are at the heart of its service and it is committed to making the experience better for them. Whether its more consistent earnings, stronger insurance protections or fully funded four-year degrees for drivers or their families, well continue working to improve the experience for and with drivers, an Uber spokesperson said in a statement. Im really struggling: Facing pay cuts, some ride-hailing drivers prepare to strike Facing high rates of driver turnover, Uber and Lyft have made attempts to appease and retain drivers by introducing features that increase transparency around pay as well as one-time bonuses for longtime drivers as part of the companies public offerings. It hasnt stopped unsatisfied drivers from organizing. Given the fragmented nature of the workforce, however, amassing driver support has proved difficult. Local driver groups often rely on social media and proprietary apps to raise awareness about protests, but there are few means to ensure drivers actually stay off the app. By nature were isolated in what we do, Martinez said. Theres no directory of who drives in San Francisco. And so you have to spend a lot of money and energy just trying to find drivers alone. And while we do spread the word to the general public or the riders, our focus has been on drivers, which we believe would make more of [an] impact than just consumers showing up alone. Although Martinez said the group in San Francisco isnt relying on riders to take a stand, consumers play a major role. In SEC filings, Uber said it lost hundreds of thousands of customers during the #deleteUber campaign. But engineering a campaign akin to #deleteUber may not be possible because riders are notoriously difficult to mobilize, especially in places where public transit or taxis are not reliable. Some regular users of the platforms said they expect to find alternative options to travel on Wednesday while others told the Los Angeles Times that the convenience of the service is hard to pass up. Santa Monica resident Elizabeth Kapocius who said shes been relying on Lyft to get around while her car is in the shop has already rented a car for Wednesday to avoid crossing the picket line. Uber and Lyft simply cannot exist without their drivers and its about time the drivers started being treated accordingly, she said. Heather Haywood, an Arkansas resident, said she respects drivers right to protest but plans to use an Uber or Lyft for her trip to the airport Wednesday. Uber is a convenience for travel, Haywood said. johana.bhuiyan@latimes.com Twitter: @jmbooyah The Museum of Contemporary Art has appointed another senior curator, but those who follow L.A.s art scene might take more interest in an additional bit of news: MOCA said it has no plans to hire a chief curator to replace Helen Molesworth, who was fired last year. The museum will announce Wednesday that its new senior curator and head of new initiatives will be Mia Locks, co-curator of the 2017 Whitney Biennial. She is an independent curator based in New York who had been an assistant curator at New Yorks MoMA PS1, the Museum of Modern Arts affiliate in Queens. In 2011 Locks curated Cruising the Archive: Queer Art and Culture in Los Angeles, 19451980, as part of the Gettys first Pacific Standard Time initiative. She is a graduate of USCs Roski School of Art and Design and a 2018 fellow at the Center for Curatorial Leadership. Locks, who will start at MOCA on July 1, will be the sixth person on the museums curatorial team. Locks said she was excited to return to MOCA, where she began her career as a curatorial associate in 2010. Even after moving to New York in 2013, I have been back and forth to L.A. regularly, she said via email. I love the city and the artists here, and have worked with many of them over the years. Advertisement As co-curator of the 2017 Whitney Biennial with Christopher Y. Lew, Locks included L.A. artists such as Tala Madani and Rafa Esparza in the exhibition. MOCA Director Klaus Biesenbach called it an example of Locks ambassadorship for the L.A. art world. New MOCA director Klaus Biesenbach embarks on a civic-minded mission to steady the museum Doing the Whitney Biennial is of course also doing a lot of research, doing studio visits, so shes very close to the artists, Biesenbach said. And for us, it felt like the right thing to find a curator who has experience and knowledge of the Los Angeles art world. Locks will curate exhibitions and develop initiatives to address sociopolitical issues. The goal is to help MOCA be as of the moment as it can be, she said. Her hiring comes at a time of rebuilding after much turbulence in MOCAs recent history. In March 2018 Philippe Vergne, the museums director at the time, fired Molesworth as chief curator before leaving his own position that May. MOCA also canceled its annual gala after complaints about the lack of diversity among its annual honorees. This year, the gala will return as a newly conceived benefit. In an interview Tuesday, Biesenbach said he has no plans to hire a chief curator. The director said he took advice from former MOCA Director Richard Koshalek, who emphasized the importance of having numerous voices in curatorial roles. MOCA is also expected to announce Wednesday the promotion of Amanda Hunt to a dual position of director of education and senior curator of programs. Longtime senior curator Bennett Simpson will become senior curator and administrative department head. A group of senior curators might allow a multiplicity of voices thats more beneficial than a singular voice, Biesenbach said. Because we talk about multiplicity, we talk about diversity. Locks said the questions that will guide her work at MOCA include: How can we constantly improve and evolve our contribution to the larger cultural conversation about equity and institutional responsibility? Its important for the museum to be a responsible citizen among citizens, Biesenbach said, noting the museums downtown location and a desire to explore social justice issues. We feel like its actually even more important to have civic engagement, he said, and thats something [Mia] is very interested in and has the track record. MOCA also released an exhibition schedule for the 2019/2020 season. With Pleasure: Pattern and Decoration in American Art 1972-1985, Oct. 27-May 11, 2020 MOCA Grand Avenue The exhibition features about 50 artists from across the U.S. and is the first full-scale scholarly survey of this groundbreaking American art movement, encompassing works in painting, sculpture, collage, ceramics, installation art, and performance documentation. Open House: Gala Porras-Kim, Oct. 27-March 30 MOCA Grand Avenue As part of its 40th anniversary celebration, MOCA is presenting a new series of exhibitions called Open House, featuring selections from the permanent collection. Open House: Gala Porras-Kim explores how the history of art is built from remnants and fragments of information from the past. Jennifer Packer, spring-summer 2020 MOCAs Geffen Contemporary This show will be the West Coast debut of painter Jennifer Packer, who has received increasing acclaim for her portraits and allegorical tableaux, including numerous flower bouquet still-lifes commemorating victims of police slayings. Pipilotti Rist, spring-summer 2020 MOCAs Geffen Contemporary The first West Coast survey of the Swiss artist spans more than 30 years of video/audio installation. Henry Taylor, winter 2020-spring 2021 MOCAs Geffen Contemporary This show will survey 25 years of L.A. artist Henry Taylors work in painting, sculpture and installation offering a deep observation of black life in America at the turn of the century. Tala Madani, November 2020-March 2021 MOCAs Geffen Contemporary The first North American survey of L.A. artist Tala Madanis paintings, animations and drawings will bring together 15 years of the artists incisive work. The exhibition will highlight the often-absurd socio-cultural dynamics enacted within Madanis art, as well as the potent and combustible relationship between art history and global history more broadly. makeda.easter@latimes.com @makedaeaster NBCs The Good Place may be one of the twistiest sitcoms out there, but what may shock its fans most of all is that star Manny Jacinto can actually string more than two words together. Jacinto plays lovable dummy Jason Mendoza on the heaven-hell-and-all-the-places-in-between comedy, and does it so well that hearing him speak normally can be a bit jarring. Yet the Filipino Canadian actor actually holds a degree in applied science in civil engineering. Yeah, I do; its a little 180 that I kind of took, a degree in civil engineering, he said during an Emmy Contenders chat in the Los Angeles Times video studio. Its in my back pocket if I ever need it, but hopefully I wont ever have to take it out or use it. Well see. WATCH: 2019 Emmy Contenders video chats Advertisement The soft-spoken actor admits playing ultra dumb requires thought. I think the biggest thing Ive learned, especially with Mike [Schur, the showrunner] or observing my peers is finding the truth in what he has to say, he says, chuckling presumably at the notion of what Jasons truth might be at any given moment. So ... regardless of how crazy the words are that come out of Jason Mendozas mouth, as long as he believes it, itll be truthful. Jacinto says during his callback for the role, there was a moment when he messed up on his lines. I was interacting with the reader and all of a sudden I kind of just stopped talking, he says, but it worked so well because hes not always there. That Jason is dumb as a rock isnt the only way the character doesnt fit the American mainstream stereotype of the Asian male hes ripped, good-looking, and women dig him. It wasnt necessarily always there, the fact that hes, like, this attractive guy, he notes, but the writers like to make me squirm a little bit, and sweat. Theyve said very nice things about Jasons aesthetic, and I thank them for that. Its fun and its nice to see, as well, because its not something we always see, in the media, anyway. The Good Place is known for its clever plot movement especially one of the single greatest sitcom plot twists ever, at the end of the first season but Jacinto says its the shows move toward heartfelt relationships and scenes that excites him most. I think when I read the end of our third season, we were we had a lot to live up to because of the first, but I feel like the writers ended up taking a step toward pulling the heartstrings and finding the humanity in the group not just having a big twist, but for lack of a better word, getting the tears out, getting the tissues out. I think that was one of the biggest challenges they brought to us, but also one of the biggest things that we looked forward to, especially with last season. To watch the entire interview, click on the video below. Battered by Senate hearings, Avenger delirium, Game of Thrones anxiety and the news that Aaron Sorkin did not get nominated for a Tony, I took comfort in the positive reviews for Long Shot and raced off to my local theater on Friday morning for a little technically job-related escape. Two hours later, I emerged more depressed and angry than I had been before, and not just because of all the blatant Dell product placement. As a longtime fan of rom-coms, I was prepared for the requisite insistence that what every deeply committed professional woman needs is a real guy who can persuade her to just lighten up for a second. That this case involved a secretary of state days away from announcing her candidacy for president of the United States lightening up with a bunch of molly, which then left her negotiating a hostage situation while stoned and wearing really stupid sunglasses was a bit worrisome. But hey, Charlize Theron can sell pretty much anything, right? No, what kept me tensely sighing throughout the film (sorry, older couple to my right) was the sight of Hollywood once again having a little fun with the notion of a woman in or pursuing a position of power president, vice president, late-night host that no woman has actually achieved yet. Advertisement Given the current state of affairs, its not that funny anymore. Once upon a time, the merest glimpse of a woman in any such role felt progressive, even if the character was a monster. The female leaders of 24, Prison Break, and Homeland were just as rotten and corrupt as the men they replaced (often through nefarious means), but that was fine. No one said a woman president was chromosomally ordained to be good, just that those chromosomes shouldnt keep her from being president. When Armando Iannucci decided to adapt his British sitcom In the Thick of It for American audiences, it made perfect sense that the lead of Veep would be a despicable female politician. Maybe it felt a little weird to have a show making fun of a female vice president when no actual female vice president has ever existed, but at the time Obama was in office with Hillary Clinton as secretary of state such a thing at least seemed possible. And sure, Selina Meyers endless assortment of sleeveless body-con dresses may have intensified some of the issues the show appeared to be satirizing that for women, its not enough to be vice president; perfectly toned arms and no visible belly fat are also required. But like Theron, Julia Louis-Dreyfus can sell anything, right? The show changed a bit after Trump and his very much non-female vice president took office, which is to say it got even darker. Some, including Louis-Dreyfus, believed Veep was an accidentally perfect reflection of his administration the show that started out as a political satire became a sobering documentary, she said at the 2016 Emmys. But it wasnt really because, well, Selina is still a woman. A woman who, in this final season, is running for president. And sure, shes hateful and hilarious, but in a Teflon way that is completely removed from her own gender, all that body-con notwithstanding. Even in the satiric world of Veep, the notion that a female candidate could get away with all the profanity, bellicosity and dirty tricks of a male candidate is absurd. Just ask Sen. Amy Klobuchar about that comb; heaven knows everyone else has. It isnt just politics fueling the fantasy. Mindy Kalings delightful Late Night, out next month, turns on Emma Thompson as a female late-night host who has been in the job so long that she needs a young inexperienced writer, played by Kaling, to save her from calcification. Meanwhile, in the real world, the only female host of any late-night show is E!s Busy Philipps. Oh, wait, she was just canceled, after seven whole months. Thank heavens she didnt calcify! Will these sorts of characters help us get comfortable with the idea of an actual female president or (I know, I know, its crazy) late-night host? Maybe, maybe not. Many people, myself included, believed that shows like The Good Wife, Madam Secretary and Game of Thrones had, going into the 2016 election, paved the way for a female president, and yet here we are. In the real world, female candidates are still judged on likability in a way men are not, still told to smile more even as their male opponents glower, still have their appearance criticized no matter what they look like or how they dress. In the real world, most movies, including Long Shot, are directed by men; most corporations are run by men; most media outlets are headed by men; and last year, when most of the Grammys continued to be won by men, women were told they should just step up. In the real world, it took the loss of male anchors to multiple sexual harassment charges for networks to realize having two women host Today would not bring on the apocalypse and that Gayle King and Norah ODonnell are stars too. (Although even ODonnells move from cohost of CBS This Morning to anchor of CBS Nightly News was accompanied by rumor that it was the result of a rift with King.) In the real world, no story has obsessed so many for so long as that of Elizabeth Holmes, the Silicon Valley entrepreneur who turned out to be a grifter. Just as so many male entrepreneurs have turned out to be grifters, except they werent young women with big unblinking eyes, so it wasnt quite as delicious. In this world, fun stories about women becoming president can seem at best flippant, at worst patronizing. Either way, depressing. Which brings us back to Long Shot. Even the title is annoying, equating, as it does, the odds of a rigorously unattractive guy hooking up with a glamorous powerful woman with those of her becoming president. A cursory glance at couples attending any power-list party proves that these odds are in no way equal. For the purposes of romantic comedy, all the real obstacles facing any (unmarried!) woman running for president are ignored in favor of her having to choose between her political ambitions and her inexplicable love for a man who refuses to comb his hair or wear a suit to a state dinner, a supposedly savvy journalist who doesnt seem to know that you shouldnt masturbate in front of your laptop when you havent covered the camera lens. Especially if you are working for/dating the secretary of state. (We can only hope the title is not also a sly reference to what occurs in the subsequent video.) Yet somehow, the simple act of defending her choice of said boyfriend ensures that Madam Secretary does indeed become the first woman president. Apparently everyone loves a smart woman who stands by her highly imperfect man no matter what. If only someone had thought of that before. mary.mcnamara@latimes.com @marymacTV Rap star Cardi B stopped the show at the Metropolitan Museums Met Gala in New York on Monday, wearing a sprawling burgundy Thom Browne gown complete with a glittering breastplate (including 44-carat ruby nipple covers from jewelry brand Stefere), an opulent headpiece, an unfurling train and a sprinkling of feathers. Lucky for her fans, she isnt finished making sartorial moves for the week. Cardi is anticipating the release of Season 2 of the Fashion Nova X Cardi B collaboration, which she mentioned during her acceptance speech at the Billboard Music Awards last week. Pieces from the collaboration with the Vernon-based fast-fashion retailer will drop online at 9 tonight Pacific time on Fashion Novas website. The new womens collection, which features 107 pieces and is 80s- and 90s-inspired, follows the initial fashion drop that sold out almost as quickly as it landed late last year. In a phone interview with The Times, Cardi said she had been intrigued by Fashion Novas astronomical success, which reminded the 26-year-old Grammy Award winner and Bronx native of her own fortune, especially after the release of her hit song Bodak Yellow in 2017. Advertisement I like how they came up from Instagram, and thats the same way I came up, Cardi said of Fashion Nova. I like the whole business-minded thing that they do. They became rich so fast off of social media. Thats something Im attracted to. A look from the new Fashion Nova X Cardi B collection. (Fashion Nova) Fashion Nova, which was founded in 2006, is known for catching a whiff of trends on social media and then quickly turning them into in-real-life apparel. Its prices are largely less than $100. Along with its relationship with such influencers as Cardi and Kylie Jenner, Fashion Novas sexy designs often reminiscent of items recently seen on Hollywood red carpets or stars Instagram feeds have fueled the companys explosive sales growth, which, according to the fashion brand, is up 600% over the last four years. Last year, Fashion Nova, which has 15.4 million Instagram followers, was the most-searched fashion brand on Google, beating luxury labels Louis Vuitton and Versace. (In 2017, it held the No. 4 spot in the category.) Fashion Nova, which has retail stores in the L.A. market, also has a robust plus-size business, sells menswear and features models on its website who reflect multiculturalism, which likely appeals to younger, woke consumers. Richard Saghian, Fashion Novas chief executive and founder, said he first discovered Cardi B on Instagram before she achieved mainstream fame, back when she was an influencer with 1 million followers. (Today, she has 44.6 million followers on Instagram). She caught our eye because not only was she a huge fan of Fashion Nova, but her style and personality matched ours, he said in an email to The Times. We started a relationship with her, and as our brand grew, her career evolved; and we have been loyal to each other over the years. It just made perfect sense that we would grow our partnership with our respective brands, and a collection was the natural progression. Here we are with the second season. Cardi B at the 2019 Met Gala on Monday in a Thom Browne gown. (Neilson Barnard / Getty Images) Although Cardis outspoken personality may be a roadblock for luxury brands, its exactly what endears her to Fashion Nova consumers, also known as #Novababes. I think people really respect and relate to how real she is, Saghian said. She isnt hiding anything. She speaks her mind and doesnt apologize for being herself. We know from our success with social media that authenticity resonates with the digital generation, and thats why Cardi has become an icon. When it came to working on the collection, Cardi didnt hold back. When the idea of designing with them came up, I told them I dont just want you to put my name on it, she said. If its a collaboration with Cardi, if my name is on it, I have to design my own pieces. They have to represent me. I have to take my time doing it. It has to be well-tailored [and] everything well-done. I put a lot of time and effort into this. During work on her first collection with Fashion Nova, Cardi was pregnant, but now that she has her post-baby body, shes ready to offer more provocative pieces. For the second collection, the rapper said consumers will see sexier designs and boudoir-inspired touches such as corsets, lace, sleek faux leathers, cut-outs and cinched-in waists. (Season 2 pieces are primarily black with touches of red, cobalt blue and fuchsia in the mix.) She also took feedback about the first collection and applied it to this latest round. Im real hands-on, Cardi said. Im always listening to what people want. This collection is more open. You know how Fashion Nova shows a lot skin, a lot of curvy bodies; thats what I wanted to embody with this collection. Cardi, a.k.a. Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar, has made a name for herself rapping about Balenciaga sneakers and red bottoms, a reference to Christian Louboutin shoes. She also has become a serious fashion standout this year after wearing a series of internet-breaking looks by French designer Thierry Mugler, including a half-shell-inspired gown, at the Grammy Awards in February. Cardi B during arrivals at the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Feb. 10. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) However, she said shes all about mixing it up when it comes to her style and likes to pair her Fashion Nova pieces with expensive jewelry, expensive shoes. The release of the new collection with Fashion Nova will coincide with a major media push, including a Wednesday event in Los Angeles. Im throwing an extravagant party, and everybody is going to be there, Cardi said, teasing that a special guest is going to be in attendance. (The soiree will be livestreamed on Fashion Novas website.) If she has any big hopes for this sophomore fashion effort, she said its directed toward the customers and her fans. I want them to feel sexy, Cardi said. I want them to feel confident. I want them feel like me every time I do something. image@latimes.com For fashion news, follow us at @latimesimage on Twitter. Sushi Bar is hard to find by design. The speak-easy-inspired sushi counter is tucked into the soaring, open-air Encino Place mall, a beigy fortress of high-end boutiques and half-empty cafes. You ride the escalator to the second story, where youll find a cluster of nondescript storefronts that make up the bulk of chef Phillip Frankland Lee and pastry chef Margarita Kallas-Lees San Fernando Valley restaurant headquarters. Theres Scratch Bar & Kitchen, Lees flagship tasting menu restaurant, and Magic Bar, where magic tricks and cocktails are on the menu. Sushi Bar has eight seats and one menu $125 for 17 courses of unapologetically nontraditional bites the restaurant calls new wave nigiri. Advertisement To get into Sushi Bar, look for the unmarked door next to the former Woodley Proper. A gold-plated sign instructs you to ring the bell. Somebody leads you inside to a lounge, where a bartender pours the complimentary house cocktail: a ceramic bowl brimming with a homemade sake tea. Peyton Tucker is the sake expert, cocktail-maker and unofficial emcee at Sushi Bar. (Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times) At dinnertime, a host leads you through a zigzagging back-of-house route through a working kitchen, pantry closets and a steamy dishwashing area. You arrive at an oversize oak door; a secret knock is proffered. Return visitors will note how its all as choreographed and schticky or charming, depending on your point of view as that uncle who insists on pulling a quarter out of your ear at every family reunion. Everything about Sushi Bar is theatrical: the old-timey Japanese ragtime music playing softly in the background through dinner; the bars mood lighting, carefully calibrated to showcase the chefs knifework. The staff, including the cooks, are dressed in matching vests and bow ties. They wield flashy kitchen tools: blow torches, sharkskin wasabi graters, oversize sashimi knives. Dinner at Sushi Bar blurs the line between a modern omakase dinner and a cabaret performance. Review: Carnitas El Momo in Boyle Heights serves pork in its most perfect form I suspect some of the bites, topped with things like sourdough breadcrumbs or yellow corn pudding sauce, will infuriate a certain kind of customer, sushi purists in particular. Everyone else, though, will find it fresh and uncomplicated, in the sense that it all tastes pretty good. A raw kusshi oyster flecked with Italian sturgeon caviar and puffed rice, wrapped in a bubbly nigori sake foam, starts the meal. Japanese yellowtail is scored and slicked with a surprisingly delicious yellow-corn sweet pudding. One of the best bites on a recent visit was the shima aji, striped jack, splashed with a yuzu kosho infused with the smoky, savory notes of Anaheim chile peppers. The chu toro from Sushi Bar. (Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times) Sometimes, the food is meted out so quickly its hard to tell one course from the next: A fatty sliver of tuna glazed in house soy and fresh grated wasabi is topped with a ringlet of finely diced scallions. New Zealand king salmon, slightly seared, follows, familiarly dressed with house soy and pickled wasabi. By the time the seventh or eighth course rolls around, the kitchens formulaic one-two punch is clear: a swab of the subtly sweet house-made soy sauce, some fresh grated wasabi, a sprinkling of Bali salt. Its a highly predictable sequence, but also effective and good. Review: At Otono in Highland Park, modern Spanish cooking with an L.A. twist There are more exotic outliers: the Ode to the Valley, smoked albacore wrapped in sake-soaked seaweed, topped with crispy onions, is a cheeky tribute to Ventura Boulevards famed sushi row. A slip of giant clam, sprinkled with green tea matcha salt, is pleasantly chewy. A purple Peruvian scallop, bathed in leche de tigre, is bracingly tart and refreshing. Dessert is a sweet frozen lozenge of lime ice cream and black sesame shortbread encased in a green tea chocolate shell. The treat, made by Kallas-Lee, who also designs the desserts for other Scratch restaurants, is marvelous. Chef Phillip Frankland Lee at his omakase-style tasting menu speak-easy, Sushi Bar. (Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times) The couple is partial to tasting menus served in intimate surroundings; Scratch Restaurants, their burgeoning restaurant group, recently opened the eight-seat Silver Bough, with a $550 18-course tasting menu, inside the Montecito Inn in Santa Barbara. (It also opened a second location of Sushi Bar inside the same hotel last month.) After dessert, the bartender takes out his bamboo matcha tea whisk and mixes up a murky blend of green tea powder and a warm, honey-infused sake. He pours the fragrant hot toddy into a ceramic bowl and makes a final, dramatic announcement: Whenever you are ready to return to reality, Ill be here to receive you and send you back out to the world. Before you know it, the house lights are turned up. Showtime is over. Sushi Bar The menu at Sushi Bar is posted behind the bar. (Mariah Tauger / Los Angeles Times) A 17-course omakase-inspired nigiri tasting menu in a San Fernando Valley speak-easy. LOCATION 16101 Ventura Blvd., Suite 242, Encino, (818) 789-3992, exploretock.com/sushibar PRICES $125 per person DETAILS Credit cards accepted. Full bar. Garage parking. Dining room and restroom are wheelchair-accessible. RECOMMENDED DISHES 17-course omakase dinner patricia.escarcega@latimes.com Twitter: @piescarcega Dorothy Clark grew up a short stroll from where she now lives, and she looks back fondly on the simple joys of a carefree childhood in Mid-City Los Angeles. We used to ride bikes, roller skate and put on plays in the street, said Clark, who also recalls pedaling over to the landmark Carthay Circle Theatre, a neighborhood movie palace that hosted big Hollywood premieres. Clark and I hooked up with her neighbor, Erich Anderson, and ambled over to a small circular park with a fountain. Anderson served as our tour guide. He identified the architects who designed the Spanish Revival, Tudor and Storybook homes built almost a century ago, when developer J. Harvey McCarthy buried utility lines underground to create a peaceful, unobstructed aesthetic. In the park, we met with several more residents of the area, all of whom stand firmly opposed to Senate Bill 50. Among other provisions, the bill would require cities to allow multistory apartment buildings to be built in areas like Carthay Circle near mass transit. The aim is to relieve the states housing shortage and get more people out of their cars as the effects of climate change intensify. Advertisement RELATED:California housing bill targeting wealthy cities could rezone nearly all of Palo Alto Weve got Wilshire right there, and they can go as high as they want, said Ann Rubin, pointing in the direction where she thinks new housing should go along commercial corridors, rather than in places where multistory buildings would alter the look and feel of residential areas. Walter Dominguez, another resident, remembers when the neighborhood was in decline in the 1980s, and residents feared developers would chart a course away from the past. He and others began a three-year process that finally earned the area a City Hall designation as a historical preservation overlay zone. They thought that would ensure the neighborhoods character would survive for future generations. If SB 50 passes, said Dominguezs neighbor Brad Kane, some of the protections from that designation could be lost. Even with preservation status, structures that dont contribute to the historic integrity of the neighborhood could meet up with a wrecking ball. A view of the Carthay Circle neighborhood with a high-rise luxury apartment complex on Wilshire Boulevard in the background. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) To put up an eight-story building in the middle of this district virtually nullifies the integrity of the neighborhood, said Kane. And theres nothing the city can do to protect us because state law trumps municipal law. Up and down the state, residents and local officials have been taking sides and lobbing barbs as SB 50, introduced by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), slips and slides through the legislative process, neither a sure bet nor a certain failure. Its hard not to see the Carthay Circle residents point that their peaceful neighborhood stands to lose a lot if the bill passes. But there is another side to the issue. We have a 3.5 million-home deficit in California, Wiener told The Times. Its undermining our economy. Its undermining our climate goals. We have to be bold in solving this problem. The man has a point, and it really doesnt make sense to build that housing where people would just have longer commutes. But what Wiener sees as bold, L.A. City Councilman Paul Koretz sees as a misguided overstep. He told me the purpose of SB 50, as he sees it, is to destroy single-family home neighborhoods in Southern California. He was referring in part to recent amendments that would weaken the bills impact in some smaller communities, among them affluent Marin County in the Bay Area. Koretz, who spoke last week at a Carthay Circle meeting attended by hundreds of SB 50 foes, makes some reasonable arguments. He thinks putting multi-story apartment buildings on lots where a single-family homes now stand would be out of scale and do little or nothing to address the states greatest need more affordable housing. He called Wieners bill a handout for developers, some of whom happen to be big supporters of SB 50. Koretz also questions whether the bill would actually ease either traffic or the housing crunch, noting that developers would be inclined to build luxury housing. That would mean little relief for those most in need and it would also undermine the states goal of reducing carbon emissions, because those who can afford the rent might be more likely to drive than ride a bus or train. UCLA professor Mike Manville sees this a little differently. Wieners bill has already been softened in answer to critics, he noted, and theres no telling how or whether it might emerge when the all the futzing is done. But he likes the intent behind it. He says he understands the concerns of Carthay Circle residents but thinks everyone has to contribute to solving the housing crisis, including those living smack dab in the middle of the nations second-largest city. We have people in our city living in tents. They live in their cars. They live under our highway overpasses and they die on our sidewalks, Manville said. At a certain point, the pedigree of your house has to matter a little bit less if you live within walking distance of major transit stops and jobs. You ought to have to share some of these opportunities your location offers. In my past conversations with Manville, hes argued that homeowners have benefited for decades from mortgage deductions, Proposition 13 tax relief and zoning restrictions that have limited new construction and driven up the value of their homes, turning thousands of Californians into paper millionaires. If we want more affordable housing, he said, maybe those homeowners can contribute a small fraction of their wealth to a construction fund when they sell their homes. Koretz said Los Angeles voters have already taxed themselves to build more affordable housing, and thousands of units are in the construction pipeline. He said L.A. should build more density along commercial rather than residential corridors, offer more assistance to those in danger of becoming homeless and require developers to include more affordable housing in their developments. In the Carthay Circle neighborhood, Kane said hed much rather see greater use of backyard granny flats to create affordable housing. Anderson said he often commutes by mass transit and he thinks a denser, more vertical city is in our future. But he said other cities in the U.S., and all over Europe, have done that without destroying links to their own history. He thinks Los Angeles can too, but we need local control rather than having Sacramento tell us how to run our own affairs, as SB 50 would allow the state to do. Theyre not going to destroy Angelino Heights or the Pueblo, and theyre not going to destroy Carthay Circle either, Anderson said. Were not going to put up with it. steve.lopez@latimes.com Twitter: @LATstevelopez Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Koretz said he will ask the city to continue to boycott the Hotel Bel-Air and the Beverly Hills Hotel although the leader of Brunei said the country will not impose the death penalty on those convicted of having gay sex. In a speech Sunday, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said he would extend a moratorium on capital punishment and ratify the United Nations Convention Against Torture. But the move was not enough for Koretz, who authored a resolution passed by the City Council last month calling for the boycott of the hotels, which are owned by the government of Brunei. The sultans recent statements showed a step in the right direction by agreeing to ratify the United Nations Convention Against Torture and it shows that he was hearing our message loud and clear, not just the hotel boycotts here in Los Angeles but also around the world, Koretz said. But as long as homosexuality is still criminalized in the country and women can be brutally whipped for adultery, it seems like his response is simply lip service to save the almighty dollar. Advertisement Can George Clooney persuade Hollywood to boycott hotels over Bruneis antigay laws? Sultan Hassanal recently announced that, effective April 3, anyone charged with adultery or homosexuality would be stoned to death in accordance with sharia law, though no such sentence is believed to have been carried out. The L.A. councils resolution says the city will refrain from conducting business at the two hotels, including participating in any event or other business that requires city resources and officially discourages all city employees and residents from staying at or attending any functions at either hotel unless and until the government of Brunei repeals these cruel and inhumane laws. Actor George Clooney is at the forefront of the push to boycott the Beverly Hills Hotel, the Hotel Bel-Air and seven properties in Europe owned by the government-owned Brunei Investment Agency. Sultan Hassanal holds supreme power in the oil-rich nation. A child was born at the side of a roadway in South Los Angeles on Wednesday morning. The parents were en route to a hospital about 3 a.m. when they had to pull over at Slauson and Normandie avenues. The father, Robin Zepeda, said he knew he needed to seek help from authorities. I said, Gotta call 911, Zepeda said in remarks broadcast on ABC7. I cant do this. Im not a doctor. Advertisement Paramedics arrived and took the mother and child to a hospital. A man was arrested Wednesday after authorities seized more than 1,000 guns from a home in Holmby Hills, authorities said. Officials received an anonymous tip about a person illegally manufacturing and selling guns in a home in the 100 block of North Beverly Glen Boulevard, said Officer Mike Lopez, a spokesman with the Los Angeles Police Department. As part of an ongoing joint investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the LAPD served a search warrant at the home at 4 a.m., he said. The ATF said in a statement that its agents searched the home after discovering an individual illegally selling firearms outside the scope of the federal firearm license that the individual possesses. Advertisement The federal agency added: ATF and LAPD have no reason to believe the public is in any danger. The man was arrested on suspicion of unlawful transportation, and of giving, lending or selling an assault weapon, according to the LAPD. Video footage showed what appeared to be ATF officials reviewing the trove of guns, most of which look to be rifles and pistols, stacked on the floor. Officials can be seen going through and disposing of boxes and taking photographs of the evidence. Authorities also found a large amount of firearms manufacturing equipment and tools. Law enforcement sources said that multiple locations were searched Wednesday. A second home was searched on North Bunker Hill Avenue in Los Angeles. The Bel-Air mansion is described as a hoarders paradise. Court records show that the property is owned by Cynthia Beck, who has three daughters with J. Paul Gettys son Gordon Getty. Beck bought the property in January 2001, but it remained unclear what, if any, connection she had to Wednesdays events. Beck could not be reached for comment. As TV news helicopters hovered Wednesday evening, about a dozen reporters and photographers crowded around the small driveway, waiting for updates from the LAPD. Traffic increased during rush hour, and drivers frequently paused to ask reporters what had happened at the home. Tour vans full of customers passed by as well, taking tourists to see the nearby Playboy Mansion and other celebrity homes in the upscale area. Hip-hop power couple Jay-Z and Beyonce live in a mansion that sits less than a mile from where Wednesdays incident occurred. Times staff writer Neal J. Leitereg, archivist James Kim and photographer Myung Chun contributed to this report. alejandra.reyesvelarde@latimes.com Twitter: @r_valejandra A 25-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman were each sentenced Wednesday in separate and unrelated cases of killing a young child, according to the Los Angeles County district attorneys office. Lataz Gray was sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison for fatally stabbing a 2-year-old girl to death after the child tried to protect her pregnant mother during a 2016 fight in South Los Angeles, prosecutors said. Gray pleaded no contest to second-degree murder in the girls death as well as attempted murder for attacking her mother, prosecutors said. Gray began stabbing his 22-year-old girlfriend on May 2, 2016, when her 2-year-old daughter, Maliaya Tademy, came from a different room and tried to protect her mother, prosecutors said. Advertisement Grays father notified investigators about his son, who had gone to the hospital for treatment of cuts to his hands, police said at the time. At some point, Gray was in touch with his father, who tried to persuade him to turn himself in, police said. Gray fled the scene and was arrested the next day by the Los Angeles Police Department. Calixta Landa, 24, was sentenced to 15 years to life in state prison Wednesday in a separate incident in South Los Angeles. Landa pleaded no contest to one count of second-degree murder in January in the death of her baby, prosecutors said. Family members reported seeing her 19-day-old baby, Sebastian, limp and pale in his bassinet on July 14, 2016, prosecutors said. The baby boy died two days later at a local hospital from brain and neck injuries inflicted by Landa, prosecutors said. Landa told investigators that she hit her baby, Los Angeles County Sheriffs Lt. John Corina told The Times in 2016. She admitted to being frustrated, he said. The baby was crying. She got frustrated and then she got physical with the baby, and the baby ended up with blunt force trauma. javier.panzar@latimes.com Twitter: @jpanzar USCs social work school, the largest in the world and one of the oldest in the nation, might be forced to lay off nearly half its staff and eliminate the vast majority of its part-time teaching positions following the revelations of severe budget problems that began under a former dean. Marilyn Flynn stepped down from her post at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work last year amid scrutiny of a $100,000 donation she had transferred through school coffers to a nonprofit controlled by the son of a powerful local politician, as The Times reported last year citing interviews and correspondence. The donation prompted an investigation by the U.S. attorneys office in Los Angeles that is ongoing. RELATED: The Times investigation of George Tyndall and USC A team of school officials reviewing financial records after her departure found the school had been operating at a loss for years, according to sources familiar with the records. The schools budget appeared balanced only because reserve accounts were tapped, the sources said. Advertisement Administrators also determined that admissions standards had been lowered dramatically in past years in what some faculty now suspect was an attempt to shore up the flagging budget with additional tuition revenue. The schools national ranking has declined significantly over the last decade. Accountants from Ernst & Young were brought on to assess the state of the schools finances. Their January report determined that the schools $150-million budget had an operating deficit that would grow to nearly $40 million by 2020 if admissions standards were tightened and no budget cuts implemented, according to people briefed on the findings. USC said more recent data suggested the 2020 figure was under $10 million. Flynn, who served as dean for 21 years, referred questions to an attorney. Lawyer Vicki Podberesky said the former dean discussed budget issues openly and transparently with faculty and administrators, including shortfalls stemming from the schools embrace of online degree programs. Podberesky said Flynn proposed measures to try and compensate for a revenue deficit that was being created by the online program but that neither the provost nor the president would approve it. USC knew full well she had to dig into the reserves from time to time to keep this afloat, Podberesky, a criminal defense attorney, added. She said her client was a scapegoat because she no longer worked at USC. Provost Michael Quick, who is leaving his post June 30 and declined to be interviewed, said in a statement that the cuts were necessary and will ensure the school is on solid footing as it seeks its next dean. The social work schools woes represent yet another fire for incoming President Carol L. Folt to extinguish as she seeks to reform the scandal-plagued university. Folt formally takes over USC on July 1 but has been working behind the scenes to address a raft of challenges, including the college admissions scandal and fallout from sexual abuse claims against campus gynecologist Dr. George Tyndall. USC has not made public the details of the financial challenges facing the social work school, and faculty members said that at various times they had been told at school meetings that the hole in the schools budget was between $20 million and $30 million, amounts a USC spokeswoman disputed as wildly overstated. The Times spoke to more than a half-dozen faculty and administrators whove been briefed on the schools financial state as well as reviewed internal records and a video recording of an April faculty meeting. These kind of things dont happen overnight, and they dont get resolved overnight, Dr. Avishai Sadan, dean of USCs dental school and a member of a university task force convened to resolve the deficit, told professors at the April meeting. Across the board, its a new world order. The task force Sadan helped lead made recommendations in April to begin addressing the budget problems. They included slashing up to 45% of the staff over two years and doing away with hundreds of posts for adjunct professors and mid-level deans. Their recommendations also included ending study abroad and international programs. Some proposals have already been implemented. Full-time faculty members have been given new contracts requiring them to shoulder heavier course loads. Professors who previously taught a half-dozen classes over the academic year will be assigned 10 courses over a 12-month period at the same salary, according to interviews and Sadans comments at the meeting last month. Its basically a pay cut, he acknowledged to faculty. One longtime professor criticized the schedule as impossible to teach well. Its not good for instructors and it is not good for the students, said the professor, who like several colleagues spoke to The Times on the condition of anonymity to preserve a non-tenured position. Founded in 1920 and renamed three years ago for USC trustee and alumna Dworak-Peck, who donated $60 million, the school has been an innovator in social work education. It was a pioneer in training practitioners to work with veterans and their families and was among the first schools to embrace online degree programs. The virtual program launched under Flynn in 2010 nearly quadrupled the student body to 3,500, a size that even exceeded the enrollment of many liberal arts colleges. Flynn called the online courses a cash cow in an interview this year with Huffington Post. But the program did not prove a panacea long-term. Additional teachers were costly, a digital learning company took a large portion of revenues, and other universities began cutting into USCs market with their own virtual social work programs, according to interviews with faculty and administrators. Despite these challenges, as recently as February 2018 she spoke about the schools financial health, telling faculty in an email reviewed by The Times that the institution had an estimated surplus of over $2 million. Our finances, programs and research are flourishing, Flynn wrote. Faculty feared the drive for greater enrollment was also coming at a cost to the quality of students. Some said that many enrolled online and on campus in recent years did not appear ready for graduate programs. We would read admissions files and reject students who would end up in the program anyhow, recalled one professor. Data that emerged after Flynns departure corroborated faculty concerns, professors and administrators said. Up to 40% of admitted students in the final years of her tenure were conditional admissions, meaning they lacked the minimum 3.0 GPA for full-time undergraduate study or failed to meet other stated requirements, the sources said. The social work school ranked in the top 10 by U.S. News & World Report a decade ago. This year, the magazine put the school as 25th best in the nation. Flynns lawyer said faculty set admissions standards and brushed off the import of the rankings, saying U.S. News uses flawed and controversial methodology in an attempt to objectively rank schools. After the faculty complaints about admissions and other issues reached Quick last spring, Flynn was moved out of the social work school and into a post as special advisor to the provost. He praised her then as a visionary leader and said the university owed her a tremendous debt of gratitude. At about the same time, a whistleblower alerted administrators to what the employee considered a suspicious financial transaction handled by the dean. Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, a USC alumnus with a long professional relationship with Flynn, donated $100,000 from his campaign account to the social work school. The Times reported last year that Flynn had transferred the money to the United Ways of California with instructions that it be given to a think tank run by Ridley-Thomas son Sebastian. The younger Ridley-Thomas was at the time working to regain his footing professionally. He had stepped down abruptly from the state Assembly after learning he was the subject of a sexual harassment probe. He denied the accusations, but legislative investigators later found that several allegations more likely than not occurred. USCs schools of public policy and social work both offered him a job as a non-tenured professor, and the social work school also gave him a scholarship to study for a masters degree. After hearing from the whistleblower, USC hired a criminal attorney who advised the school to turn information about the donation and Sebastian Ridley-Thomas employment and scholarship over to the public corruption unit of the U.S. attorneys office in L.A. Both Ridley-Thomases have denied any wrongdoing. Stephen Kaufman, an attorney representing Mark Ridley-Thomas, said in a statement that his client has no information or knowledge about the School of Social Works finances. USC said it continues to cooperate with federal prosecutors. Asked whether there is any evidence of misappropriated money at the school, a USC spokeswoman said, This is still part of the government investigation. A spokesman for the U.S. attorneys office declined to comment on the current status of the matter. The schools grim finances come amid a period of transition. John Clapp, who took over as interim dean, is expected to step down soon, and a replacement as interim dean will be named shortly. The search for a permanent dean is expected to conclude in 2020. matt.hamilton@latimes.com Twitter: @MattHjourno I think sometimes the details get lost in the electronic shuffle, if you will, Thomas said. We need to get into the habit of bringing people to the table in situations like this for one final review by all parties. I think it needs to be a rule we consistently follow. Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva said Tuesday that he will revive a drug team that was sharply criticized for disproportionately stopping Latino drivers on the 5 Freeway but said the unit would follow strict constitutional guidelines to prevent racial profiling. The Domestic Highway Enforcement team was suspended in November after county Inspector General Max Huntsman said a preliminary investigation by his office found the unit was inherently built to violate the constitutional rights of a vast number of people passing through the I-5 Freeway. Villanueva told The Times that a new team of specialized narcotics officers is expected to begin drug enforcement operations on the stretch of the interstate north of Santa Clarita later this year. He said the former team fell short of department standards in how they treated Latino drivers. Maybe they started with the best of intentions, but over time they got ... a profile that had too much of a component that was constitutionally impermissible, Villanueva said. So we need to restart and go back to whats allowable. Advertisement Villanueva said the revamped team would be given a different name and would consist of some deputies who are native Spanish speakers. The sheriff did not specify how large the unit would be or what reforms would be made before operations resume. He said the unit would have to balance its mission to disrupt the flow of drugs from Mexico with its legal duty not to violate the constitutional rights of drivers. If the criminal profile is that Mexican cartels are using native Mexican immigrants to transport drugs through the I-5 corridor, at some point when you start zeroing on who the right people are, its going to end up being a lot of Spanish-speaking people, he said. But we have to separate the wheat from the chaff. And we have to use the same standard for everybody. The units approach first came under scrutiny in October when a Los Angeles Times investigation detailed how the team had pulled over and searched the vehicles of more than 3,500 drivers who turned out to have no drugs or other illegal items. The overwhelming majority of those were Latino. Latino motorists describe anger at being stopped on 5 Freeway by sheriffs unit seeking drugs The Times analysis of Sheriffs Department data found that 69% of drivers stopped by the team were Latino and that two-thirds of them had their vehicles searched a rate higher than motorists of other racial and ethnic groups. Cars belonging to all other drivers were searched less than half the time. By contrast, Latinos made up 43% of motorists who were issued citations by the California Highway Patrol on the same stretch of freeway during a six month period last year, according to an inspector generals office report released several weeks ago. The report found that the teams work had a constitutionally troubling impact on Latino drivers. and nearly a third of federal criminal filings based on the units arrests, 11 of 36, were dismissed by the courts or by prosecutors. The inspector generals office said there were problems with oversight as soon as the unit was created in 2012 and the Sheriffs Department should have been aware. As early as 2014, the report said, the U.S. attorneys office told sheriffs officials of credibility problems regarding a deputy assigned to this team; yet no study was done to determine whether there were systemic issues behind the teams practices. The unit made up of a sergeant, four deputies, a part-time narcotics detective and a drug-sniffing dog focused on the Grapevine section of Interstate 5, between the northern border of L.A. County and Santa Clarita. Interim L.A. County Inspector General Rodrigo Castro-Silva has said the department needs to craft clear guidelines on how the team conducts traffic stops and that the stops should be captured on video and audio. There needs to be better accountability and there has to be auditing of video and comparing that to the reports of the deputies, Castro-Silva said last week. There has to be much better training they recognize that. They are open to working with our office on implementing these recommendations. Sheriffs Department ignored red flags about team that stopped Latino drivers, report says Castro-Silva said his office will be actively involved with the Sheriffs Department in the formation of the new team. Sean Kennedy, a Loyola Law School professor and member of the Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission, said its critical that the department work with independent constitutional policing experts as well as the inspector general to develop a protocol to ensure racial profiling does not occur. Changing the name or changing the people involved is not going to be good enough, he said. We saw from past examples that when you dont have a proper protocol and supervision, criminal cases from the team end up getting dismissed. Lael Rubin, another member of the commission and a former prosecutor, said she was disappointed that the commission was not notified about the sheriffs plans to revive the team. Since Villanueva has not provided specific details about how the revamped team will differ from the previous one, there is no guarantee of meaningful change, she said. The inspector generals report listed 26 reform recommendations, key among them a proposal that department supervisors regularly analyze the teams stop data to determine if any racial or ethnic groups are being disproportionately stopped and searched. In a written response, Villanueva said the department would take that suggestion into consideration. The department agreed with eight of the recommendations, including creating a standalone policy that clearly prohibits racial profiling. But the department disagreed with a proposal that would require deputies to obtain written consent to conduct a search. Castro-Silva said sheriffs officials told him that was not necessary because deputies actions would be recorded by dashboard and body cameras. Claims of racial profiling on 5 Freeway echo findings against sheriffs deputies in Antelope Valley Sheriffs officials said they launched the highway team as a response to a spate of drug overdoses in the Santa Clarita area, although the inspector general said the team has not been effective in reducing overdoses. Similar units operate around the country as part of a federal program designed to use local and federal law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking. The team made more than 1,000 arrests and seized 600 pounds of cocaine and more than a ton of methamphetamine, among other drugs, since it was formed. But Huntsman said that, without knowing the total supply that is moving through the 5 Freeway corridor, its difficult to say how effective their efforts have been. Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday sought to cast himself as a defender of democracy, even as critics warned that overturning a municipal election result in the countrys largest city signaled an accelerating slide into authoritarianism. Turkeys highest electoral authority on Monday ordered a do-over of a March vote that saw an opposition politician elected as mayor of Istanbul, the sprawling metropolis on the shores of the Bosporus that is the countrys commercial capital and the hometown of Erdogan, 65, whose political rise began there in the 1990s. The decision by the High Election Board which followed heavy hints by Erdogan that the earlier result ought not stand rattled investors, sent Turkeys lira plunging and drew sharp rebukes from European leaders and some U.S. lawmakers, though not the Trump administration. As a NATO member, Turkey is an important U.S. ally, although one that has been increasingly at odds with the Washington establishment. Recent years have seen a series of draconian measures by Erdogan to consolidate his powers. He has carried out massive purges of the security apparatus, the judiciary and the news media. Tens of thousands of dissidents, real or suspected, are behind bars. Advertisement The Turkish president secured a new five-year term in elections last year, and engineered constitutional changes that transformed a once-ceremonial post into the seat of power. Even so, some analysts saw the overturning of an election result in Istanbul as crossing a new frontier. Soner Cagaptay of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, writing on Twitter, called it a seismic change in the countrys political life. After the electoral boards announcement, residents in some Istanbul neighborhoods, particularly opposition strongholds, staged protests that were noisy but carefully calculated to avoid any police response clanging pots and pans together, switching lights off and on. Protesters shine lights from cellphones during a demonstration in Istanbul after authorities annulled the mayoral election result. (Bulent Kilic / AFP/Getty Images) Immediately after the vote, Erdogan and his allies offered scant proof of any serious irregularities, lacing demands for annulment of the results with elaborate conspiracy theories. Some of the alleged technical violations were similar to those dismissed in past votes as inconsequential to the result, such as some polling places being overseen by professionals such as accountants and teachers, who were not part of the civil service. Speaking to parliamentary supporters in the capital, Ankara, on Tuesday, Erdogan employed a favorite rhetorical stratagem: turning accusations of wrongdoing back at his accusers. Calling the electoral boards decision an important step to strengthen our democracy against cheating and corruption, the president railed against what he characterized as the usurping of votes rightfully cast for his party. From the opposition, the narrative was precisely the opposite. Some likened the overturning of the vote result to a coup a loaded accusation in a country that has suffered many of those. The March 31 municipal elections across the country yielded several other losses for Erdogans Justice and Development Party, known by its Turkish initials AKP. It failed to secure control of Ankara, the capital, or of Izmir, another major city. But the loss of Istanbul, where Erdogan launched his political career by serving as mayor, was seemingly insupportable. During the years of his partys control of the municipality, Erdogan often cited the maxim that he who wins Istanbul wins Turkey. But over time, reports of lucrative patronage deals for those in the presidents inner circle fueled voter resentment. Ekrem Imamoglu, whose mayoral victory in Istanbul was annulled. (Burhan Ozbilici / Associated Press) The president reportedly seethed in the weeks following the recent vote, as a partial recount of the close election reconfirmed the result and the new mayor, Ekrem Imamoglu of the Republican Peoples Party, or CHP, was installed in office. After initially flirting with the idea of a boycott, the CHP said Tuesday it would take part in the repeat election, even while speaking out against the scrapping of the original result. Everyone who has a conscience should talk about what has happened here, Imamoglu told supporters, speaking hours after the electoral boards decision. Artists, businessmen, everyone now is the time to talk. Speak up. The only reason they didnt allow me to lead was that I refuse to listen to one man. Even within Erdogans party, there was divided opinion about whether overturning the Istanbul vote was going too far. Some of the harshest criticism came from erstwhile allies of the president. The ballot box is the most fundamental value of our political tradition, Ahmet Davutoglu, a former prime minister forced out by Erdogan, wrote on Twitter. He called the electoral boards decision an injury of our fundamental values. Some analysts saw the new vote, scheduled for June 23, as a risky maneuver for Erdogan, because it will be so closely watched and could result in a more emphatic win for Imamoglu. The March municipal elections were widely read as a rebuke to the AKP, primarily over economic woes. But some analysts also saw a degree of voter fatigue with Erdogan himself, who, having held power since 2003, is the only leader many Turks have known. Erdogans populist appeal includes frequent harking back to the glories of the Ottoman Empire, and the president sometimes adopts an imperial style to match. That has included trappings like a grandiose presidential palace in Ankara and huge infrastructure projects sometimes criticized as over-ambitious. Erdogan has encountered little or no criticism from the Trump administration over anti-democratic moves, but in Congress, even some Republicans have objected to the overturning of the Istanbul vote. Rep. Christopher H. Smith of New Jersey, the ranking member of the House subcommittee on global human rights, said in a statement Tuesday that Erdogan was cementing his legacy as a menace to democratic values. Special correspondent Farooq reported from Istanbul and Times staff writer King from Washington. A measure to decriminalize hallucinogenic magic mushrooms appeared headed for defeat Tuesday, with voters apparently deciding it was too bold even for Denver, a famously libertarian city. Late results showed nearly 55% of voters had rejected the proposed ordinance. That was a blow to supporters who had spent months touting the therapeutic properties of the naturally occurring mushrooms which contain the drug psilocybin, saying they were effective in treating anxiety, depression and drug addiction. This Colorado city declined to allow pot sales. Now its having second thoughts Advertisement Some of those claims are backed up by researchers who are also quick to note that psilocybin is a powerful drug that should be taken only under strict supervision. Critics said psilocybin mushrooms were primarily used recreationally, not for medicinal purposes. The measure, they said, was simply the first step toward legalizing and eventually commercializing a powerful drug. Marijuana has been more harmful than beneficial to our state. I applaud the voters of Denver for refusing to add another illicit drug to the problems we are already facing, said Jeff Hunt, director of the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University, a conservative think tank. Voters took an important step back from embracing yet another illicit drug. The ordinance, the first of its kind put to a vote in the nation, would have essentially prohibited local authorities from enforcing criminal penalties for possession of psilocybin mushrooms for personal use. California failed to get a similar measure on the ballot last year, while activists in Oregon hope to put the issue to a statewide vote in 2020. Denver has been a pioneer in drug legalization. It decriminalized marijuana in 2005, seven years before the state of Colorado became the first state to legalize it. Last November, the city tried to create the nations first safe injection site. That failed after being declared illegal by state and federal authorities. Elke Carre wears stickers in support of an initiative that would decriminalize psilocybin mushrooms at an election watch party for Decriminalize Denver on May 7, 2019, in Denver. (Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images) Decriminalize Denver, the group spearheading the effort, threw an election watch party Tuesday night complete with a 6-foot-high luminous flower of life vortex and fresh ethically minded mushroom-inspired cash kitchen. But when the first results came in showing the initiative trailing, a collective groan rose from the crowded room. Still, those interviewed expressed optimism that the public will eventually embrace magic mushrooms, as it did with marijuana. I feel hopeful. We are all heading in the same direction, said Eli Katz, who described himself as a psychonaut. If we dont get it right this time, then next time we will have a better understanding of the zeitgeist. Kevin Matthews, the activist behind the measure, said if the ordinance fails, they would try again. Its win or learn tonight, he said. Even if we lose we have educated people. It just means we have more work to do. Either way, the conversation will go on. Kelly is a special correspondent. The New York Times reported Tuesday that Donald Trumps businesses lost more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, based on tax information the newspaper acquired. The Times said it had acquired printouts from the future presidents official IRS tax transcripts, including figures from his federal tax forms. The newspaper said Trump reported business losses of $46.1 million in 1985, and a total of $1.17 billion in losses for the 10-year period. After comparing Trumps information with that of other high-income earners, the Times concluded that Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer. Advertisement Because of his business losses, the newspaper reported, Trump did not pay income taxes for eight of the 10 years. The House Ways and Means Committee has asked the Internal Revenue Service to provide Trumps personal and business tax returns for 2013 through 2018. Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin refused to do so Monday, saying the panels request lacks a legitimate legislative purpose. Mnuchins move, which had been expected, is likely to set a legal battle into motion. The chief options available to Democrats are to subpoena the IRS for the returns or to file a lawsuit. Trump is the first president since Watergate to decline to make his tax returns public. The GOP says the Russia case is closed, but even Republicans are looking to revisit the investigation for reasons quite different from those of Democrats. TOP STORIES Nothing to See Here? Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says its time for the country to move along after special counsel Robert S. Mueller IIIs report on whether the Trump campaign conspired with Russia in 2016. Case closed, as he said. But Congress isnt quitting the Russia investigation, in more ways than one. Senate Republicans are stepping up efforts to examine how the probe began, while House Democrats have launched multiple committee investigations that use Muellers report as a starting point. And today, Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee could vote to hold Atty. Gen. William Barr in contempt for defying a subpoena by refusing to turn over an unredacted copy of Muellers report and the underlying evidence. Advertisement More From Washington -- The New York Times reported that Trumps businesses lost more than $1 billion from 1985 to 1994, based on tax information the newspaper acquired. (The full story is here.) -- FBI Director Christopher A. Wray said he did not consider court-approved FBI surveillance to be spying and said he had no evidence the FBI illegally monitored Trumps campaign during the 2016 election. -- U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo made a lightning visit to Baghdad aimed at showing support for the Iraqi government. The U.S. says its picked up intelligence that Iran is threatening American interests in the Middle East. -- A federal appeals court says the Trump administration can force asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for court hearings while the policy is challenged in court. Would Michigan Go Blue Again? Among the battleground states that will decide the 2020 presidential election, few make Democrats wince like Michigan. The Wolverine State in 2016 handed Republicans the slimmest of victories to help put a Trump-shaped hole in the Democrats supposed Midwestern firewall. Now, Sen. Kamala Harris has outlined a competing strategy for how Democrats can win back Michigan. A USC Schools Budget Woes USCs social work school, the largest in the world and one of the oldest in the nation, might be forced to lay off nearly half its staff and eliminate the vast majority of its part-time teaching positions after revelations of severe budget problems that began under a former dean. The schools woes represent yet another fire for incoming President Carol L. Folt to extinguish as she seeks to reform the scandal-plagued university. The Only Thing Missing: TIE Fighters On paper, its called Rainbow Canyon a place of natural beauty on the western edge of Death Valley National Park. But to plane watchers the world over, its known as Star Wars Canyon where people come to catch a glimpse of jets maneuvered by U.S. Air Force and Navy pilots as if theyre dropping into the trench of the Empires Death Star. Your support helps us deliver the news that matters most. Subscribe to the Los Angeles Times. Sign up to get Todays Headlines delivered to your inbox. FROM THE ARCHIVES On this date in 1952, L.A. City Hall was attacked by invading Martian monsters! Well, not really. The scene shown below is actually of a 6-foot-tall model being blown apart for the 1953 film The War of the Worlds, which would go on to win an Oscar for its special effects. The exact model of the City Hall was built of breakaway plaster, and loaded with prima cord, The Times reported the next day. When the special effects director shouted, Action! a series of blasts crumpled the model spectacularly against a background of swirling smoke and flame and sprayed plaster particles across the set like shotgun pellets. A model of L.A. City Hall is blown up during filming of special effects for the 1953 movie War of the Worlds. (Phil Bath / Los Angeles Times Archive / UCLA) CALIFORNIA -- L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva says he will revive a drug team that was sharply criticized for disproportionately stopping Latino drivers on the 5 Freeway but said the unit would follow guidelines to prevent racial profiling. -- Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed a five-year elimination of sales taxes on purchases of diapers and menstrual products. Former Gov. Jerry Brown rejected a similar proposal. -- Columnist Steve Lopez visited the Carthay Circle district, where residents worry that Senate Bill 50 a measure being considered by the Legislature to increase housing density could ruin their neighborhood. -- The L.A. school board has voted to exempt the square footage of parking structures and garages in homes from the reach of Measure EE, a property tax on the June ballot meant to benefit the school system. HOLLYWOOD AND THE ARTS -- The Motion Picture Assn. of Americas new film rating chief Kelly McMahon is looking to bring fresh eyes to a 50-year-old system. -- Can Avengers: Endgame top Avatars box-office record? Analysts say it has a shot. -- Game of Thrones has killed off another breakout character: the coffee cup that made a cameo. -- In the new Netflix series Tuca & Bertie, a fictional pastry shop serves up crunts, a wacky pastry with an awful name. What would they taste like in real life? Times cooking columnist Ben Mims has the answer. NATION-WORLD -- Authorities say an 18-year-old student was killed when gunfire erupted inside a suburban Denver middle school not far from Columbine High School. Several people were wounded before two students were taken into custody. -- A measure in Denver to decriminalize hallucinogenic magic mushrooms appears headed for defeat, with voters apparently deciding it was too bold even that famously libertarian city. -- Many in Turkey see the voiding of an election in Istanbul as the latest sign of a slide into authoritarianism. -- Cuba has canceled this years edition of the Conga Against Homophobia, a parade widely seen as a sign of progress on gay rights on the island. BUSINESS -- Ahead of Ubers expected initial public offering, drivers in at least 10 cities across the country plan to stage a 24-hour strike over what they describe as unfair pay and a lack of transparency. -- How the Apple store has fallen from grace. SPORTS -- Columnist Bill Plaschke says the XFL is returning to L.A., with a cleaned-up act but a dim outlook. -- Country House, winner of the Kentucky Derby, wont be running in the Preakness Stakes. Its the first time since 1996 a Kentucky Derby victor wont run the second leg of the Triple Crown. OPINION -- Are migrant families still being separated at the border? We need to find out. Now. -- Congress should act now to ensure a free and open internet, writes former congressman Henry Waxman. WHAT OUR EDITORS ARE READING -- Chinas stock is rising in U.N. talks about tackling climate change, while the role of the U.S. diminishes. (Foreign Policy) -- Inside the worlds only museum dedicated to ventriloquism a.k.a. museum-going for dummies. (Smithsonian) ONLY IN L.A. The Los Angeles Philharmonic is offering amateur musicians a chance to play with star violinist Ray Chen on stage at the Hollywood Bowl in August. More than 800 entries have come in including a 10-year-old who submitted a YouTube video featuring herself playing next to a Chen sock puppet and a 21-year-old who posted an Instagram video of her alternating between performing CPR on a manikin and playing violin. Thats music to the ears and lungs. If you like this newsletter, please share it with friends. Comments or ideas? Email us at headlines@latimes.com. The proposed Equal Rights Amendment, which fell just a few states short of ratification in the 1970s, came up for a hearing in Congress two weeks ago, its first in 36 years. It was an important moment in the newly revived ratification effort, which began when the Nevada Legislature unexpectedly voted in 2017 to endorse the ERA 40 years after the last state had done so. Illinois did the same the following year, leaving the proposed ban on sex discrimination just one state shy of the three-fourths required to ratify a constitutional amendment, and interest in the ERA surged. But the discussion in the House Judiciary subcommittee also showed that this important amendment has a difficult path ahead. Its not as simple as a vote in one more state legislature. Congress had set a deadline for states to ratify the ERA, even though the Constitution requires no such timetable, and it expired in 1982. A bill by Rep. Jackie Speier (D-Hillsborough) would retroactively remove the deadline. Then theres the fact that five states voted to rescind their ratifications of the ERA back in the 1970s. These legal complications have led some to argue that the best way forward is to go back to the beginning. Thats the opinion of Elizabeth Price Foley, a conservative legal scholar who testified at the hearing on April 30. Otherwise, she said, the ERA could be birthed under a shadow of constitutional illegitimacy. She added, Why not start fresh? And then there could be no doubt. Who could argue against gender equality in 2019? Advertisement Theres an appeal to a clean process, without a deadline this time. Surely it would be a cinch to ratify a new ERA now, when many of the ramifications feared by opponents have been rendered moot. (Women in war zones? Oh my stars!) Who could argue against gender equality in 2019? Even the most conservative-leaning states have seen tremendous advances for women in positions of political and financial power. And it might work in a rational world. But thats not where we live. For starters, getting two-thirds of each chamber of this polarized Congress to agree on anything, let alone to amend the U.S. Constitution, seems like an impossible task. Then it would have to win approval in 38 state legislatures, which brings up a new wrinkle. Some opponents of abortion argue that the ERA would give more constitutional protection to abortion rights, which is problematic for the amendment in states where lawmakers are seeking to roll back access to abortion. A ratification vote failed to happen this year in the Arizona Legislature in large part because of people like Cathi Herrod, president of the conservative nonprofit Center for Arizona Policy, who said the new ERA effort is just a ruse to enshrine abortion in the U.S. Constitution. Robert Marshall, a former state lawmaker in Virginia, explained the argument this way: Any sex-based distinction in a law would be unconstitutional under the ERA, and a law banning abortion clearly makes a sex-based distinction because only women become pregnant. Theres no telling whether the courts would buy that argument. Nevertheless, if the goal is to get the ERA passed, the most reliable approach is to enact the Speier bill and forge ahead. Thats not a cynical strategy to derail opponents; rather, it is both legal and appropriate. Article 5 of the U.S. Constitution confers the right of Congress to manage the ratification process. The U.S. Supreme Court said in 1939 that this means Congress, and Congress alone, has the power to decide the viability of a constitutional amendment. Furthermore, Congress has routinely revised its own deadlines retroactively over the years. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute As for the five states that rescinded their ratifications more than 40 years ago, ideally they would vote to rescind their rescissions. But it should not matter either way. Other amendments, notably the 14th, were declared ratified even after states had voted to retract their endorsements. But those states were included in the official list of ratifiers, lending credence to the theory advanced by some constitutional scholars that ratification is a one-way street for states. Given the progress women have made and the precedents that have been set by the Supreme Court, which has ruled that the 14th Amendments equal protection clause prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, the ERA may seem like nothing more than symbolic gesture. But for one thing, symbolism is important. For another, the Supreme Court can and does reverse rulings and reinterpret the Constitution from time to time. Amending the nations founding legal document to declare that equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex would give that principle the higher protection it deserves. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook President Trumps cruel policy of separating migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border ranks among the worst of his administrations many bad decisions. The policy was put in place last year to serve as a warning to people who were living in fear of gangs and other mortal dangers in their home countries of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador and who were considering seeking asylum in the U.S. The policy was a simple one: If a migrant family crossed the border and asked for asylum, the parents would likely be sent to jail on misdemeanor criminal charges and the children farmed out to other relatives in the U.S., to family friends, or to strangers in the foster care system. Even many of Trumps staunch supporters balked at the ruthless, coldhearted policy, and Trump, under pressure, ordered it ended last June. A week later, U.S. District Court Judge Dana Sabraw in San Diego added a court order to the mix, banning family separations unless they are necessary for the safety of the child. That reasonable accommodation turns out to have been a loophole through which the government has continued to separate families. According to immigrant advocates, children are being taken from their parents based on long-ago convictions for crimes such as driving under the influence that would seem to have little or no bearing on whether the parents actually pose a risk. Families are also being separated on the mere suspicion that an adult is not really the parent. Human decency demands that the government be certain before it tears a family apart. Advertisement The government acknowledged in court filings that it has separated 389 families since Sabraws court order went into effect in June, but immigrant rights advocates argue that the actual number is much, much higher. Acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan told Congress last week that immigration officials are separating fewer than two families a day, a small fraction of the more than 1,600 families that arrive. But advocates report at least 40 separations a day along the California section of the border alone, with other separations occurring in Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. The governments history of obfuscation with regard to border statistics has been documented in the past. Judge Sabraw should take steps to ensure that his order against unnecessary separations is being observed. Its unconscionable, if its true, that the government is continuing to inflict emotional and psychological damage on young children and their parents, especially on such flimsy pretexts. The American Psychological Assn. condemned the separations last year as not only needless and cruel, but a threat to the mental and physical health of both the children and their caregivers. The separations, though, fit in with the Trump administrations ongoing efforts to erect barriers to those seeking asylum, part of a broader attempt to throttle back overall immigration. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute It is entirely unclear how many asylum seekers at the border are telling untruths about who they are. The government claims that since October it has detected more than 1,000 cases of families that were not, in fact, families or were engaged in fraud by claiming children over age 18 were minors. Thats a sliver of the 189,000 families it says it apprehended during that period. While its true that some people have arrived with questionable birth certificates, thats not reason to enforce overzealously. Human decency demands that the government be certain before it tears a family apart. More broadly, the Trump administration despite making immigration one of its front-burner issues has failed utterly to come up with workable and legal strategies for dealing with the arrival and lawful asylum requests of tens of thousands of people. Many of them will ultimately not qualify; rampant crime and intolerable hardship do not qualify as persecution for the purposes of receiving asylum. But they have a right to ask, and the governments inhumane efforts to slam the door in their faces runs counter to the law and to our international obligations. Its inexcusable for the government to add to the trauma these families have already suffered by tearing them apart on flimsy pretexts. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook Politicians pay attention to those who elected them and its a stubborn fact that young Americans vote at much lower rates than their elders. Data just released by the Census Bureau show that even in the historically high-turnout 2018 midterm election, the turnout rate for voters under 30 was half that of persons over 60. When young peoples participation lags badly, issues important to them school safety, student loans and climate change, among others receive short shrift in the public discourse. A vicious cycle of disengagement ensues: Politicians dont bother to speak about the issues that matter to young people, so young people dont vote. Empowering civic participation among young people is vital to the health of American democracy. And one method of doing that is now being considered by the Los Angeles Unified School District board: lowering the voting age to 16 for school board elections. Turning 18 is not a magical threshold for civic participation. Advertisement Los Angeles would follow places around the country that have already extended voting rights to persons under 18. Twenty-one states (though not California) permit 17-year-olds to vote in primaries if they will turn 18 by the general election. Berkeley recently followed the lead of the Maryland cities of Takoma Park, Greenbelt and Hyattsville to allow 16-year-olds to vote in school board elections. Turning 18 is not a magical threshold for civic participation. Philadelphia and Montgomery County, Md., effectively lowered the voting age to 14 by allowing high schoolers to elect a full voting member to their local school board. Many other localities go almost that far by having students elect an advisory school board member. The long history of Americas democracy is one of extending voting rights to interested communities with previously limited representation, the most recent example being lowering the national voting age from 21 to 18 in response to the Vietnam War draft. Students have a stake in the quality of their education and they are the closest observers of what is happening in classrooms. The average student knows more about their communitys schools than the average retiree, yet it is mostly the latter who are making decisions for the former. Further, lowering the voting age can address the chronic problem of low youth voter turnout by providing a teaching moment. California recently adopted a policy known as preregistration, which extends voter registration to 16-year-olds so they are already on the rolls as soon as they turn 18. As of last year, the California secretary of states office reported more than 200,000 young people had preregistered to vote. Los Angeles can do even better by directly tying the act of registering to vote to casting an actual ballot. Florida, one of the first states to adopt preregistration, requires election officials to conduct civic education activities in schools. Many Florida election officials work with high school teachers to hold voter registration contests among schools and mock elections to educate students about the mechanics and importance of voting. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion Floridas preregistration program has a modest effect on youth participation because the act of registering is not immediately tied to the act of voting. Imagine, then, if Los Angeles election officials held real elections on high school campuses, with voter registration opportunities and polling places. Civics teachers could explain the obligations of citizenship while students are voting. Candidates might come to speak to them. Its well established that voting is habit-forming: Vote once, and you are much more likely to vote again. The broken cycle of virtuous civic participation could thus be mended. Disadvantaged communities would benefit the most from this approach. Right now, many teens first voting opportunity doesnt come until after theyve graduated from high school. College students are geographically concentrated and are thus easy to reach for campaigns voter mobilization efforts. The tough nut to crack is the abysmal voter turnout for non-college youth. Lowering the voting age to 16 would help them learn the ins and outs of voting before they leave high school. For those who think young people are too incompetent to make election decisions, a voting age of 16 should be of little concern: Young people will be too incompetent to navigate the voting process too, right? But the truth is that detractors of lowering the voting age are very much afraid of the opposite: that young people will be empowered to vote and engage more broadly in public discourse. For a democracy, more people voting is a good thing. Michael McDonald is associate professor of political science at the University of Florida, where he studies voter turnout and American elections. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook Say what you will about the ethics of plagiarists at least they have an ear for what audiences want to hear. When Joe Biden cratered in his first official run at the White House in 1987, it was because of a series of borrowed speech passages, hand gestures, and even biographical details (no, he didnt derive from a family of coal miners, as he once claimed, nor was he ''the first in his clan to ever attend college; he lifted those details from a speech by U.K. Labor politician Neil Kinnock). The deceptions nonetheless revealed a political truth: Ronald Reagan had peeled off blue-collar voters from the Democratic Party, and it would take a relatable, regular-sounding Joe to lure them back. Americans may tell themselves they seek candidates who lead, but in reality theyre more likely to reward politicians, like Biden, who follow where public tastes have already gone. You generally dont serve in multiple tiers of elected office for his 47 years longer than Pete Buttigieg, Beto ORourke and several other Democratic presidential candidates have been alive by getting out ahead of voters comfort zones. You get there by being a weather vane. After four years of comparative madness, maybe Americans are looking for a typical politician: unprincipled and pandering, sure, but at least predictable. Advertisement Joe Biden is a political weather vane covered in rust. Hell creak in the direction of the prevailing winds eventually, apologetically if need be, but dont expect the man to point toward some bold new future. Its both his main selling point and greatest weakness. During the late 1980s and early 90s, when the country was at the exhausted end of a three-decade rise in violent crime, Biden was right there putting his fingerprints all over what would become Americas mass incarceration machine. He co-sponsored the Anti-Drug Abuse Act, which included much tougher penalties for crack cocaine than for powder cocaine, and lamented that 6 out of every 10 criminals who are arrested on drug charges have their cases dropped. Now that even a law-and-order Republican president is pushing through criminal justice reform, Uncle Joe is characterizing his role in the crack/powder disparity as a big mistake. Biden absolutely will follow, not lead, on legalizing marijuana, which two out of three Americans and all 12 presidential candidates immediately behind him in national polls now support. Even while serving in the White House with Choom Gang emeritus Barack Obama, the then-veep was still using old-timey prohibitionist language, calling pot a gateway drug. Think of every time American public opinion over the past half-century swung toward a public-policy hysteria many would eventually regret, and youll see Joe there, Zelig-like, flashing his choppers. Iraq war? Check. The (as characterized by Voxs Dara Lind) disastrous, forgotten 1996 law that created todays immigration problem? Yep. Patriot Act? Hes been dining out on that one for years. Those of us wary of government power shudder at the sight of politicians with a demonstrated eagerness to wield it when the masses get rowdy. And yet Bidens finger-in-the-wind ideological pliability can have its uses, too, most famously in 2012, when he gingerly led his party to the conclusion on marriage equality its voting members had long since held. This, less than two decades after (of course!) voting for the notorious Defense of Marriage Act. Bidens current high standing in the polls is a sight to behold for those of us who remember his six feeble previous flirtations with the Oval Office. It suggests that, in a cycle in which Democrats are prioritizing electability more than in any recent election, its precisely Joes rust that makes him attractive. With the exception of the vanishing never-Trump rump, just about every right-of-center political and policy grouping Im aware of is gearing up for 18 months of trench warfare against incipient socialism. If Trump doesnt win, the once-Trump-averse Glenn Beck recently warned, we are officially at the end of the country as we know it. Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute In a campaign that has already zoomed from Medicare-for-all to the Green New Deal to even slavery reparations with vertigo-inducing speed, who among the recognizable half of the Democratic field seems least likely to hoist the red banner? Rust is not, after all, a useful lubricant for revolution. While Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) is out there unveiling giant (and costly!) new policy proposals every 48 hours or so, Biden just waves off any such commitments, saying he doesnt have the time to completely lay out all the details of his plans. In a political moment so weird that Donald Trump is president and Bernie Sanders damn near took over the Democratic Party, it may seem counterintuitive to bet on a politician who works so hard at coloring inside the lines. But two-party systems tend to resemble pendulums. After four years of comparative madness, maybe Americans are looking for a typical politician: unprincipled and pandering, sure, but at least predictable. And slow. Matt Welch is editor-at-large at Reason magazine and a contributing writer to Opinion. A move by House Democratic leaders to protect incumbents is reigniting anger and suspicion among the partys progressives ahead of the 2020 election. Under a new policy, the powerful Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will refuse to hire pollsters, ad makers or other campaign consultants if they also work with a candidate trying to defeat a sitting Democrat in a primary. The rule is designed to prevent divisive primaries. But many progressives see it as another move by the Democratic establishment to bully and marginalize the partys growing liberal wing, and some moderates also object. To some, the change is reminiscent of the revelation that the Democratic National Committee favored Hillary Clinton over Sen. Bernie Sanders in the 2016 presidential primary, a rift that left the party weakened in the general election. And instead of downplaying primary battles, the rule is shining national attention on some key races, particularly a Chicago-area standoff between two Democrats. Advertisement This is a party that should stand for competition, exchange of ideas and allowing for fair elections. This undercuts that, said Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Fremont). He said the policy relies on the kind of monopolistic powers that Democrats often criticize big businesses for using. Progressives immediately lashed out when word of the policy spread in March, but theyre not the only ones concerned. I just dont think its appropriate, said Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose), a widely respected veteran lawmaker. Win back Trump voters or rally the base? Democrats wrestle with 2020 strategy in Michigan Critics warn the policy is not only tone-deaf in light of the 2016 tensions between progressive and establishment Democrats, it threatens to alienate some of the partys youngest and most energetic supporters. More than 70 chapters of the College Democrats are boycotting the Congressional Campaign Committee over the policy. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), the high-profile House freshman who defeated an incumbent who was a House Democratic leader, encouraged supporters to pause donations to the campaign committee and instead donate directly to candidates. Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), who also defeated a party incumbent, said the policy would threaten to silence new voices and historically marginalized communities. Congressional Campaign Committee officials and senior House Democrats, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), defend the policy, saying the groups business is to protect the House majority and incumbent Democratic lawmakers, no matter where they fall on the political spectrum. So far, the new policy is playing out most dramatically in a southwest Chicago congressional district that has come to embody the national battle over the partys identity. There, in a district that includes a slice of the city and its southwest suburbs, a progressive Democrat with the backing of several progressive groups is trying for the second time to oust one of the Houses most conservative Democrats in the 2020 election. Marie Newman, who came within 2 percentage points of unseating Rep. Dan Lipinski in the Democratic primary last year, said the rule has undercut her campaign. She cant find any pollster who is willing to work with her, and at least four consultants have started and later halted the interview process. For most Democratic political operatives, the idea of not being able to get business from the partys campaign committee is too significant a risk, she said. Were a democracy, and we shouldnt be putting any thumbs on any scales, Newman said, adding that the committee is protecting [Lipinski] to the point where its a little bit silly. Democrats go bold on economic plans, a deliberate contrast to 2016 Progressives are particularly appalled that the Congressional Campaign Committee would protect Lipinskis seat when they argue it could be held by a Democrat whose values are more in line with the national partys. Lipinski, who has held the seat since 2005, voted against the Affordable Care Act in 2010, opposes abortion rights, and is the only House Democrat who hasnt cosponsored the Equality Act, which would extend civil rights protections to LGBTQ people. If we dont allow for a challenge to a Democrat who opposes the ACA, opposes Roe vs. Wade and opposes the Dream Act, then what do we stand for as a party? Khanna said. Lipinski had opposed the Dream Act, which sought to protect immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children. But in 2017, he said he would support later versions of the bill, and has cosponsored the Democrats latest version, which is expected to get a vote this year. Newman who won endorsements in 2018 from Sanders (I-Vt.), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand of New York and two of Lipinskis fellow Chicago-area House Democrats argues that shes the real Democrat in the race. Lipinski says his views are more in line with the district, which has a strong union population and is heavily Catholic and increasingly Latino. He argues that the district is made up of what had been known as Reagan Democrats not the progressives who are getting much of the attention in Congress today. He expressed worry that the party risks going too far to the left and cited Pelosis support for being a center-left party. A shift to the left pulls Democratic candidates in different directions for 2020 Pelosi wants to focus on getting things done in the House and having the best ability for us to defeat President Trump in 2020, he said in defense of the campaign committees policy. She understands. The [committee] understands. We need to do what we can to try to keep the party unified. The progressive backlash against the policy has helped Newman give the race a national profile. She said shes seen a 40% lift in fundraising in recent weeks as word of the policy spread among progressive activists. After Democracy for America endorsed her late last month, she raised more than $68,000 in 10 days; the average donation was about $20, and about 85% of the money came from outside the state. The nation cares about this very ill-fitted congressman who is calling himself a Democrat when he is really a Republican or independent, Newman said. On Monday she received the endorsement of several liberal organizations, including the abortion rights groups Emilys List and Planned Parenthood and political groups MoveOn and Progressive Change Campaign Committee. Both sides say the partys Congressional Campaign Committee has always had an unwritten rule that it didnt work with political operatives who tried to oust incumbents. Supporters of the policy say the practice is merely more transparent now. Progressive lawmakers and groups have met with the committee chairwoman, Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.). Several progressives, including Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chairwoman Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), say they think Bustos is open to changing or reversing the policy. I think we could come up with something that reflects our values and not hurt us either with individual candidates but also with our base, Jayapal said. Additional meetings are expected. But a spokesman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee said the policy is not going to change. The latest from Washington More stories from Jennifer Haberkorn This is my third time directing, which was really fun and an eye opener for me, she said. I enjoyed it and working with my fellow students and their talents. Next year, Id like to write a love story from my family. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell offered a definitive verdict Tuesday on special counsel Robert S. Mueller IIIs report on whether the Trump campaign conspired with Russia in 2016 case closed. Two years of exhaustive investigation, and nothing to establish the fanciful conspiracy theory that Democratic politicians and TV talking heads had treated like a foregone conclusion, McConnell (R-Ky.) said on the Senate floor. It was time, he said, for the country to move on. But Congress isnt quitting the Russia investigation. Senate Republicans are stepping up efforts to examine how the probe began, revisiting controversies that are reliable fodder for angry presidential tweets, while House Democrats have launched multiple committee investigations that use Muellers report as a starting point. Advertisement Fueling the drama, President Trump has vowed to fight all the subpoenas and said current and former administration officials including Mueller should not testify in the Democrats inquiries. That standoff over separation of powers is creating a political fault line for both parties as they gear up for the 2020 campaign. Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee said they would vote Wednesday to hold Atty. Gen. William Barr in contempt for defying a subpoena by refusing to turn over an unredacted copy of Muellers report and the underlying evidence. Unless committee staff and Justice Department officials find a compromise, a court fight could keep the dispute alive for months. Trump has pumped out discordant messages of his own, insisting he was fully exonerated by a partisan witch hunt conducted by angry Democrats. Republicans scrutinized some controversial episodes from the Russia investigation, including a court-approved surveillance warrant against a former Trump campaign advisor, when they controlled the House last year. But with Trump and his supporters amping up the rhetoric, charging that the probe involved spying and an attempted coup, the Senate has promised to reopen the inquiry. It has to be done, said Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.). There is a perception that some people, a small handful of people, hopefully, at FBI and the Department of Justice interfered in the 2016 election and acted upon their political beliefs, and we have to address that perception. Atty. Gen. William Barr at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on May 1. (Win McNamee / Getty Images) Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and one of Trumps closest allies on Capitol Hill, made clear that investigating the original investigation would be a priority for his committee. This committee is going to look long and hard at how this all started, he told Barr at a hearing last week. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) said he saw no contradiction between McConnells call to move on and Grahams pledge to review the investigation. The question of whether or not Americans were being spied on is something thats an appropriate role when it comes to oversight for the Judiciary Committee, he said. But Thune said Americans want to put the Russia probe in the rear-view mirror. He added, I just think people are tired and theyre sort of in a lot of ways relieved that its over. For their part, Democrats are struggling to gain traction with their investigations into Trump, his finances and his presidency. Barr refused last week to appear before the House Judiciary Committee in a dispute over whether staff lawyers could question him. The White House also instructed former chief counsel Donald McGahn, a key witness for Mueller, to withhold documents from the committee. On Monday, Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin stiffed the House Ways and Means Committee, saying it had no legitimate legislative reason to demand six years of Trumps tax returns. The case is likely headed to court. McConnell accused Democrats on Tuesday of ramping up investigations because they were disappointed that Mueller did not find a conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia. Democrats, he said, are experiencing a meltdown. Democrats quickly accused McConnell of running interference for Trump when the president still faces potential legal threats. Several state and federal jurisdictions are still investigating Trumps affairs. Its sort of like Richard Nixon saying, Lets move on at the height of the investigation of his wrongdoing, Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) said. Of course he wants to move on. He wants to cover up. Kurt Bardella, a former House Republican aide during investigations into the Obama administration, said Republicans need to go on the offensive to avoid taking action on the evidence Mueller uncovered. The choice theyre faced with is either accept some of the substance of the Mueller report, or continue doubling down on discrediting it completely, he said. Republicans have largely chosen the latter route, going back to some of their favorite controversies, including thousands of text messages between FBI Agent Peter Strzok and FBI lawyer Lisa Page during the campaign. Both worked on the Russia investigation at the start and harshly criticized Trump in their private messages. Sens. Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) quoted those texts again this week in a letter to the intelligence communitys inspector general to urge an investigation into illegal leaks. Barr said last month he was reviewing spying on the Trump campaign. Although he said he wasnt sure there was wrongdoing, he told a Senate committee that there was probably a failure among a group of leaders in the FBIs upper echelon. In October 2016, the Justice Department and the FBI obtained a foreign intelligence surveillance warrant to eavesdrop on Carter Page, a former foreign policy advisor to the campaign, due to his contacts with Russian intelligence operatives. Federal judges renewed the warrant three times. Page was not charged. Republicans have repeatedly suggested that the surveillance was improper, but FBI Director Christopher A. Wray rejected those concerns during a Senate budget hearing Tuesday. I dont think I personally have any evidence of that sort, he said. Wray also said he wouldnt describe the court-approved surveillance as spying, as Trump and Barr have done. Thats not the term I would use, he said. Some experts see the endless back-and-forth over the special counsels investigation as more evidence of the countrys deepening partisan divide. There has to be an end to these things, said Ken Gormley, president of Duquesne University and the author of books about the Watergate and Whitewater scandals. People have to learn to get over them. Tensions between the White House and Congress boiled over Wednesday after President Trump asserted executive privilege to block release to lawmakers of the special counsels unredacted report, and a House committee voted to hold Atty. Gen. William Barr in contempt. The high-stakes brawl marked a major escalation of a legal and political fight that has few parallels since the Watergate era. The disputes are almost certainly headed to court. Weve talked for a long time about approaching a constitutional crisis, Rep. Jerrold Nadler, the New York Democrat who chairs the House Judiciary Committee, said after the contempt vote. We are now in it. Adding to the turmoil, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee has issued a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr., the presidents eldest son, as part of its investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election. Advertisement The first known congressional subpoena of one of Trumps children was issued recently, reportedly because he refused to appear a second time to answer questions, but its existence became public only on Wednesday. Trump Jr. also had refused to testify voluntarily to the special counsels office. The House Intelligence Committee jumped into the fray, subpoenaing Barr to hand over all counterintelligence and foreign intelligence materials produced by the Mueller probe as well as the unredacted report and underlying materials. The Justice Department has responded to our requests with silence and defiance, tweeted Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank), the committee chairman. Congress needs the material. We will not be obstructed. The days dramatic events began when the White House said Trump had asserted executive privilege for the first time since he took office in 2017 to block release to Congress of special counsel Robert S. Mueller IIIs unredacted report and evidence. Hours later, the Democratic-led House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Barr in contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena to hand over the material. The 24-16 vote was along party lines. If the full House approves the resolution, Barr will be the nations second top lawman to face that sanction. Muellers office had considered charging Trump Jr. with violating campaign finance laws for accepting a meeting in June 2016 with a Kremlin-tied lawyer who, he was told, would provide incriminating information on Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Prosecutors ultimately decided they had insufficient evidence. Trump Jr. also faced scrutiny for his role in secret election-year efforts to build a luxury skyscraper in Moscow, a proposal that was abandoned after Trump secured the GOP nomination. The subpoena by the Republican-led committee, first reported by Axios, put Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell in an awkward position. On Tuesday, he declared case closed on the Russia investigation and urged Congress to move on. House Democrats pressed ahead despite being stymied by the White House. As the Judiciary Committee hearing began, the Justice Department released a letter from Assistant Atty. Gen. Stephen Boyd to Nadler that said Trump was making a preliminary claim of executive privilege. The step serves as a placeholder, giving the president time to review the materials and consider a more definitive attempt to block congressional access to specific documents. White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders told reporters that Trump had no other option but to assert executive privilege to counter what she called Nadlers blatant abuse of power. The White House previously threatened to invoke executive privilege to restrict testimony on Capitol Hill by former officials, but the letter marked Trumps first formal assertion of the legal principle that allows presidents to keep private communications with advisors. Muellers report relies heavily on interviews with current and former senior staff in the White House, most notably former chief counsel Donald McGahn. The White House had allowed them to speak with the special counsels office and did not assert executive privilege over the redacted report that was released to the public on April 18. Muellers report concluded that the Trump campaign did not illegally conspire with Russia in the 2016 election. It also laid out substantial evidence that the president tried to obstruct the probe but reached no conclusion on whether he had violated the law. Barr said the facts did not show Trump committed a crime, a conclusion that Democrats have contested. Lawyers for the Justice Department and the special counsels office redacted about 10% of the 448-page report before its public release, and House Democrats say they need to inspect the censored material. Experts said the contempt resolution and the executive privilege claim underscored how quickly relationships had deteriorated between House Democrats and Trump, who has pledged to fight all the subpoenas. Usually you negotiate for months and months, said John Yoo, a UC Berkeley law professor who has worked for the Senate Judiciary Committee and President George W. Bushs Justice Department. Theyre immediately going to the walls of their castles, and they are quickly escalating. In addition to battles involving the Russia investigation, Democrats have accused the Trump administration of stonewalling their inquiries into the presidents taxes and handling of security clearances for several White House aides, including Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner. What is the Trump administration hiding from the American people? said Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Torrance) during the Judiciary Committee hearing Wednesday. Because the administration is not just stonewalling this committee. Theyre stonewalling every committees request for information. Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, the committees top Republican, said Democrats were seeking more documents because they were unhappy that Mueller didnt find a case for impeaching the president. We think were going to find out something more than he found out? Collins said. Come on. Were manufacturing a crisis, and thats why were here. Republicans also said Barr was following the law by refusing to turn over the unredacted report, which includes grand jury evidence that is required to be kept under wraps. They pointed to Boyds letter to Nadler, which said Barr could not comply with your subpoena in its current form without violating the law, court rules, and court orders, and without threatening the independence of the Department of Justices prosecutorial functions. Nadler disagreed, saying he wanted to work with Barr to ask a judge for permission to have access to the grand jury material. A full House vote on the contempt resolution could be averted if committee staffers and Justice Department officials can reach a compromise. But that appeared unlikely after the White Houses announcement on executive privilege gave Barr more legal grounds to resist. House leaders havent decided when the contempt resolution will come to the floor, according to Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.). He accused the Trump administration of participating in perhaps the greatest cover-up of any president in American history. Hoyer indicated Democrats were willing to be patient if contempt proceedings against Barr end up in a lengthy legal battle, which could extend into 2020 and become a campaign issue. If it takes a year and a half, thats a relatively short period of time in the course of the history of our country, Hoyer said. Theres precedent for similar court fights to last far longer. In 2012, Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. became the first sitting Cabinet member to be voted in contempt by the GOP-controlled House in a battle over access to Justice Department records on a failed gun-tracking operation called Fast and Furious. The legal battle lasted for years after Holder left his position. We still dont have all the documents, said Rep. Debbie Lesko (R-Ariz.) a reminder of how such disputes rarely have tidy or timely ends. Times staff writer Jennifer Haberkorn contributed to this report. A sword, a BB gun, several knives and a baton were just some of the items reportedly confiscated by police in Burbank from a man they say was responsible for a series of mail thefts. Ivan Masabanda, a 50-year-old from North Hollywood, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of identity theft, illegal possession of weapons and for violating his parole. Police were initially called out to an RV said to belong to Masabanda that was partially parked in a red zone near Chandler Boulevard and Keystone Street. Officers also found the registration for the vehicle had expired six months ago. Sgt. Derek Green, a Burbank Police Department spokesman, said officers found that Masabanda had a warrant out for his arrest on suspicion of a parole violation. During a search of his RV, police allegedly found the weapons and pieces of mail along with drug paraphernalia. After they were contacted by the police, several of the people whose pieces of mail were found confirmed it was stolen, authorities say. Masabanda has since been charged by the City Attorneys office with three counts of possessing a dangerous deadly weapon in a vehicle, four counts of identity theft and one count of possessing drug paraphernalia. He is currently being held without bail. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Passenger numbers at Hollywood Burbank Airport grew yet again by 6.8% in March as more travelers continue to use the local airfield. There were 459,829 passengers during March, which was 29,359 more than the same month in 2018, said Nerissa Sugars, manager of air-service development for Hollywood Burbank, during a meeting of the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority on Monday. Leading the way was Southwest Airlines, the largest carrier operating at Hollywood Burbank, which had 342,758 passengers, a hike of 22,536 compared to the previous year. JetBlue Airways flights to New York and Boston continue to boost the carrier as it reported 20,661 passengers in March. That was 12,631 more than the same month last year. American Airlines also reported some growth, with 15,332 passengers, an increase of 3,274 over the year before. Delta Airlines also saw some improvement in March, logging 13,355 passengers, which was 2,506 more than last year. Alaska Airlines and United Airlines were the only carriers that saw declines for the month. Alaska had 44,415 passengers, 8,224 fewer than last year, while United had 23,308 passengers, a drop of 3,364 passengers compared with the year before. Most of the other airports in the region performed well during March. Los Angeles International Airport had 7,368,798 passengers, which was 138,711 more than last year. Ontario International Airport reported 436,701 passengers, an improvement of 21,702 compared to the year before. John Wayne Airport had 923,469 passengers in March, an increase of 25,051 over the same month in 2018. However, Long Beach Airport saw a drop in its numbers, with 289,791 passengers, which was 66,500 fewer than in 2018. Denis Carvill, Hollywood Burbanks deputy executive director of operations, said that aside from seeing its passenger numbers increase, the facilitys parking revenue for all of its lots and valet service also rose. Hollywood Burbanks parking services generated roughly $1.75 million during March, which was about $49,680 more than in 2018. Additionally, the airport received $305,397 from ride-sharing companies for pick-ups and drop-offs during the month, a hike of $74,706 compared to the same month the year before. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. The Burbank Transportation Management Organization has teamed up with a ride-sharing service to help reduce the number of vehicles driving through Burbank. Since November, the transportation nonprofit has been working with Waze Carpool to offer those who work in Burbank a $2 ride to and from their job. Julia Wean, interim director of the organization, said using the service usually costs the passenger up to 54 cents per mile and caps the trip at about $15. To encourage Burbanks workforce to consider using the ride-sharing service, trips taken by those who work in the Media City are being subsidized by the transportation nonprofit. Those who want to take advantage of the program, which expires on April 30, do not have to live in Burbank. The deal works, without using a special code, as long as the rides final destination or starting point is in Burbank. The program also benefits Waze Carpool, which is a relatively new ride-sharing app that operates in a different manner than Lyft or Uber, by attracting new users and drivers to the service. Were hoping this incentive will encourage more people to download the app, check it out and hopefully encourage riders that are attracted to the $2 rides [and] also bring in more drivers that havent heard about the program before, Wean said. Waze Carpool differs from its competitors in one important way. Instead of having a fleet of drivers who can be hailed by anyone to be driven anywhere, Waze Carpool has drivers who are on a route that would have been taken by them even if they didnt have a passenger with them, Wean said. She added that Wazes drivers are limited to two trips a day one to their work destination and one back home, which means there will be fewer vehicles going into and from Burbank. It has been the Burbank Transportation Management Organizations goal to help reduce the number of vehicles commuting into and from Burbank. David Kriske, assistant community development director of transportation for Burbank, said the citys resident nighttime population is around 105,000 to 108,000 people. However, the daytime population swells to more than 200,000 people because of those who commute to and from work in Burbank. Were a very jobs-rich city with a lot of commuting in and out of the city as a result, Kriske said. Weve always had that pattern, but I think because of either the economy or the activity of our employment of the last few years, at least anecdotally, is on the rise again, it brings challenges to deal with traffic coming into the city. Finding a solution to traffic is something that Burbank and most other cities in Southern California face, Kriske said. Meeting the needs of the residents and those who work in Burbank is a difficult task. Kriske said the city has been looking to revamp the Burbank Bus program, which has not been as widely used as before. City officials have also been encouraging residents and the workforce to use Metrolink for their commuting needs. He added that transportation agencies have a difficult time providing the same level of convenience that Waze Carpool, Lyft and Uber provide. As a region, were still having a hard time making sure that were putting our transit where people want to go, Kriske said. anthonyclark.carpio@latimes.com Twitter: @acocarpio Its official: After a four-month search, Costa Mesa has a new city manager. With a 6-1 vote Tuesday night, the City Council hired its top choice for the job Lori Ann Farrell Harrison, currently assistant city manager in neighboring Huntington Beach. Welcome to Costa Mesa! Mayor Katrina Foley exclaimed after the decision, to a round of applause. Farrell Harrison will be the eighth city manager since Costa Mesa incorporated in 1953 and the first woman appointed to the post. I personally am thrilled that you will be our first woman city manager, and I think you are the most qualified and the most experienced and you will lead us the best, Foley told her. Farrell Harrison will receive a starting salary of $260,000 per year, with an additional $141,185 in annual benefits. She is expected to start by July 1. I have been watching the city from not too far away and been so incredibly impressed with the direction that youre headed in, with the bold initiative that youre taking to increase revenue, to reinvigorate the business community and help to attract new businesses, Farrell Harrison told the council Tuesday. Your commitment to transparency, quite frankly, is the gold standard in the county. Under your leadership and direction, I can work with the executive team here at the city some of whom Ive met this evening to lead us to new heights and to achieve incredible things, she added. Im thrilled about the opportunity. Council members were effusive in their praise for Farrell Harrison, saying her combination of intellect, financial acumen, wide range of experience, emphasis on teamwork and collaboration and leadership style made her an ideal fit. This is a really big decision, but its an easy decision and its a happy decision, said Mayor Pro Tem John Stephens. It was a long recruiting process; we looked at a lot of great candidates ... but one stood out above all the other candidates. Ms. Farrell Harrison is going to be a great city manager. Councilman Manuel Chavez said he thinks Farrell Harrison has the well-rounded skill set necessary to lead Costa Mesa as it continues to grow and develop. Theres no better fit for our city, he said. Councilman Allan Mansoor cast the lone dissenting vote. He believed the council should have chosen Costa Mesa Assistant City Manager Tamara Letourneau for the job. Letourneau has served as the citys top municipal employee since the sudden departure of former city manager Tom Hatch in November. Letourneau didnt apply to fill the job long term, but Mansoor said he believes thats because she knew there were not four votes up here for her, and I think thats sad. She would have been my No. 1 choice and so I think we really dropped the ball as a city by not going with Ms. Letourneau and expressing our support for her as city manager, Mansoor said. Other council members also expressed gratitude for Letourneaus leadership the past few months and thanked her and the rest of city staff for their hard work and dedication. The audience at Tuesdays meeting applauded that sentiment as well. Before Farrell Harrison takes the reins in Costa Mesa, she will do so temporarily in Huntington Beach following the departure of current City Manager Fred Wilson, whose last day on the job is Friday. Farrell Harrison will serve as interim city manager in Huntington Beach starting Monday and fill that role until a replacement is named. Huntington Beach city officials have said they will launch a national recruitment effort and hope to appoint a long-term leader by this summer. Farrell Harrison became Surf Citys assistant city manager in September 2017, when she was selected to replace Ken Domer, who left to become Fullertons city manager. Before that, she was the citys chief financial officer for seven years. She also previously worked as controller and chief financial officer for the city of Long Beach. She received her bachelors degree from Barnard College of Columbia University and a masters in public administration, also from Columbia. She is fluent in Spanish, and she and her husband have four teenage children. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. The sky above Costa Mesa City Hall will soon be more colorful and, for some in the community, significantly more meaningful after the City Council voted Tuesday to authorize displaying the pride flag, a rainbow symbol for the LGBTQ community. The 6-1 vote, with Councilman Allan Mansoor opposed, means the banner will fly at City Hall annually from May 22 Harvey Milk Day, which honors the first openly gay elected official in state history through LGBT Pride Month in June, which commemorates the history, contributions and sacrifices of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. Traditionally, Costa Mesa has flown the city, California and American flags, as well as the POW-MIA flag, at its municipal facilities. The councils decision followed at-times emotional pleas from speakers who said the pride flag would be a beacon for members of the local LGBTQ community to let them know Costa Mesa recognizes and values them and is committed to protecting their rights and safety. Several speakers recounted their own experiences with hostility and inequality and shared the fear they felt that their families, friends or classmates would not accept them for who they are. Displaying the pride flag, supporters said, could make a world of difference for those going through similar struggles by helping them feel welcome. This is an opportunity for the city to speak, and I think by flying this flag, the things that were saying were talking peace, tolerance, inclusion, equal rights and one of the phrases I love so much: Love is love, said Councilwoman Arlis Reynolds, who had requested that the proposal move forward. Im proud to be in support of a symbol that says Costa Mesa is proud and Costa Mesa loves. Councilwoman Sandy Genis said that when she first heard the idea, she thought it was politically correct, goofball stuff, but we heard tonight from people who didnt feel safe and who felt threatened because of who they are. And if our government truly exists for the purposes of government then we really should be making our residents feel safe. In the Bible, the rainbow is described as a promise from God following the flood that wiped out almost all life on Earth. Genis said flying the pride flag can be a promise that, in Costa Mesa, you will be protected, your rights will be secure and you will be safe. Three other Orange County cities Anaheim, Fullerton and Santa Ana have authorized displays of the pride flag at their city halls, according to Costa Mesa city staff. Though most council members and speakers Tuesday supported flying the flag, some questioned whether authorizing it could set a precedent that would compel the city to raise different, more objectionable, banners in the future. Others characterized the pride flag as a more divisive display that shows intolerance to those who might not embrace the LGBTQ community because of their personal, religious or moral beliefs. Mansoor said he doesnt think any of us should be required to affirm what someone else should or should not believe. We all have individual choices, we all have individual freedoms. He reiterated some of the points he made in a public Facebook post last week, including that the pride flag may mean different things to different people. To some, it may mean that we should treat everyone with respect which, if that were the sole symbolism of the flag, I would support it, he said. To some, however, it may mean intolerance or hostility to anyone who morally or due to religious conviction does not support some of the things in the LGBTQ agenda, even though they do not support harassment or violence. Councilman Manuel Chavez, however, said acceptance seems like division when you fail to acknowledge peoples struggles. Councilwoman Andrea Marr added that in terms of explicitly endorsing the gay agenda, I endorse love and I endorse inclusion and I endorse every single thing that makes people in Costa Mesa feel welcome and as part of this community. Before agreeing to fly the pride flag, the council adopted a policy that outlines the procedures and standards for the display of flags at city facilities and allows commemorative flags if the council authorizes them as an expression of the citys official sentiments, according to a staff report. However, Costa Mesa will not display a commemorative flag based on a request from a third party, nor will the city use its flagpoles to sponsor the expression of a third party, the report added. The vote to approve the policy was 5-2, with Mansoor and Genis opposed. Genis said she voted no because she has a general concern with the doctrine of government speech. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. A plan to expand two shelters in unincorporated Midway City to serve Orange Countys growing homeless population is at a standstill as officials continue brainstorming sources of financing. The plan is a partnership among Huntington Beach, Westminster, the county and American Family Housing, a nonprofit that provides housing and other services to the homeless. The proposal would add 55 beds to the Midway City shelters, which currently have a total of 20. Huntington Beach Mayor Mike Posey said in an interview that they are exploring ways to fund it. Steve Harding, senior director of external relations for American Family Housing, said the process is in the discussion phase and that there is nothing further to report on. Officials have declined to specify the shelters location, and it isnt clear how much money the cities and the county would contribute to the proposal. But Huntington Beach officials have said the City Council would have to vote on the plan before it moves forward. A council study session on homelessness is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 15. Orange County cities are struggling to figure out how to address the homeless issue after U.S. District Judge David Carter tasked cities in April with identifying potential shelter sites after a county proposal for temporary ones in Irvine, Laguna Niguel and Huntington Beach was scrapped amid protests from residents and city leaders. Carter is presiding over a lawsuit filed in January by homeless advocates who sought to halt the removal of an encampment along the Santa Ana River trail. Officer Gabe Ricci of the Huntington Beach Homeless Task Force looks in a tent while Officer Daniel Chichester talks with Rigoberto Espinosa, right, at a homeless encampment off Ellis Avenue on Wednesday. (Scott Smeltzer / Staff Photographer) In Huntington Beach, a task force that began about three years ago is trying to determine through trial and error the best ways to help local homeless people. The task force includes outreach coordinator Cathy Lukehart, two full-time police officers and four case managers. The growing and evolving homeless population, Lukehart said, makes it difficult to formulate immediate solutions when homeless people often are dealing with mental health and addiction issues. The city partners with several nonprofits across the county and at times receives free assistance from facilities that handle such matters. Individuals and churches also contribute donations that cover expenses related to helping the homeless, such as bus passes. In two cases, donations helped people with a rent payment, Lukehart said. We try really hard to not put Band-Aids on things, she said. We try to put people in situations to help make a meaningful change. Officers Gabe Ricci and Daniel Chichester of the Homeless Task Force play a vital part in the effort. Chances are, Lukehart said, a homeless person will know Ricci, a veteran of the task force, and go to him when he or she is ready to ask for help. On Wednesday, Ricci and Chichester visited a homeless encampment near homes off Ellis Avenue and woods near Sully Miller Lake. They said they had received complaints from residents for two months about homeless people gathering on a makeshift trail toward the lake. Officers Gabe Ricci, left, and Daniel Chichester of the Huntington Beach Homeless Task Force talk with homeless people near an encampment off Ellis Avenue. (Scott Smeltzer / Staff Photographer) Several tents stretching about a half-mile were surrounded by debris on the ground. About eight people were in the area that morning, most of whom had already crossed paths with the officers. Chichester approached Rigoberto Espinosa, 36, who sat on a beach chair adorned with a Mexican flag. Why are you still on the streets? Weve offered you help before, correct? Chichester asked. Espinosa confirmed in an interview that he had been offered help and was directed to a shelter in Santa Ana. But the location prioritized nearby residents, he said in Spanish. He said he was discouraged and returned to Huntington Beach, where his son lives. One person Wednesday requested help to return to Hemet. The rest were told to find shelter elsewhere but were given business cards to contact Ricci or Chichester for help. Officers estimate 250 to 400 people are living on the streets in Huntington Beach, with 500 living in cars. Officials can only do so much until a person decides to get help, Ricci said. Officer Daniel Chichester lets Yesenia Newell, 30, talk with an acquaintance on the phone on Wednesday at a homeless encampment in Huntington Beach. (Scott Smeltzer / Staff Photographer) But helping even one person return home can make a shift successful for the officers. The task force is expected to have housed or relocated 226 homeless people by October, Lukehart said. Candice, a 36-year-old Huntington Beach resident, lived in her car for two years until she received help from the task force. She asked that her last name not be used because she isnt ready for her colleagues at work to learn about her past. Candice said she had her own business but hit rock bottom after returning to Huntington Beach from Big Bear and experiencing the price difference of living near the coast. She said she tried living with her mother in a senior housing community but wasnt allowed to stay there with her two children. Candice said her brother took in her children while she lived in her car with her husband. Then she crossed paths with Ricci. The task force connected her with Mercy House, a nonprofit that helped her with rent and inspired her to develop new habits and turn her life around. Candice has been employed and paying rent without help since March. She credits the task forces efforts with giving us our life back. I dont feel like Ive made it yet, she said. Ive got a long road to go. I still live dollar to dollar every day, but thats only because I pay my bills. Im a productive member of society, my two children are fed and I dont waste my money on [things] I dont need today. Priscella.Vega@latimes.com Twitter: @vegapriscella The Orange County Board of Supervisors is trying to compromise on potential changes to general aviation infrastructure at John Wayne Airport by melding amenities attractive to owners of business jets with limited jet activity amenable to noise-sensitive neighbors while preserving storage capacity for smaller planes. The supervisors expressed preference Tuesday for a plan combining two options they were asked to consider for potential adoption. The plan would allow for a general aviation terminal while capping the number of private jets based at the airport. After roughly five hours of discussion, including pleas from airport-adjacent residents worried about increased noise from private jets, the board stopped short of committing to the modified plan pending clarification from county and airport lawyers. The modified plan will return to the supervisors May 21. Supervisor Andrew Do hashed out a compromise handwritten on the back of a note from Newport Beach-based advocacy group Airport Working Group of Orange County and displayed on a projector. He suggested capping business jets based at JWA to 65 and smaller light GA planes to 339 single-engine and 35 multi-engine aircraft, while keeping the same number of support operators and increasing hangar space for light GA. The county Airport Commission demurred last week on taking a position on potential updates because it said it wanted to maintain onsite storage space for smaller private planes that could be squeezed out by amenities for corporate jets. The Airport Commission and the Board of Supervisors postponed votes on the matter in April after Newport Beach objected to what it considered the last-minute release of a key section of the projects environmental review. The county, which owns and operates JWA, says updates would provide facilities to serve an increase in the number of private jets at the airport. Private jets fall outside the restrictions that JWA has operated under since 1985, when a Newport Beach-initiated settlement agreement set limits on noise levels, commercial departures, number of annual passengers and airport capital improvements. Airport staff has recommended changes that would include a new general aviation terminal the airport currently has terminals only for commercial service and dedicated, fee-based customs screening for noncommercial international flights. A total of four potential options feature a range of amenities, with all options including infrastructure updates such as buildings and airfield roads to comply with current Federal Aviation Administration standards. All proposed changes would stay within the airports existing footprint. Do said his hybrid is close to keeping faith with the Newport agreement. Board Chairwoman Lisa Bartlett, however, persuaded the board to continue the item until its next meeting. We think were close but we are not, she said. Newport Beach City Councilman Jeff Herdman said county staffs preferred plan is an attempt to expand commercial operations to the benefit of a small group of users. He was referring to air taxis, some of which are considered general aviation though they provide a paid service. He reminded the supervisors that the Newport City Council supports the most basic option the one the council backed in March that would allow for adjustments required by the FAA but keep the frequency of private aircraft departures the same and not add a terminal for general aviation. The [airport staffs preferred plan] was not designed to serve the people of Orange County yet it will lead to long-term adverse impacts on the daily lives of thousands of your constituents as well as mine, said Herdman, who leads Newports Aviation Committee. Supervisor Andrew Do suggested a compromise general aviation plan for John Wayne Airport, but the county board decided to continue the matter to May 21. (File photo) Katrina Foley, mayor of neighboring Costa Mesa, and former Huntington Beach mayor Keith Bohr told the supervisors they also support the basic plan. Ive been in these bodies where you have a ton of people speak and oftentimes theres a loud vocal minority, said Bohr, who currently is on Huntington Beachs Jet Noise Commission, launched recently to focus primarily on noise linked to Long Beach Airport. This is not the vocal minority. Patricia Jantzen, who lives on Newport Beachs Balboa Island, said the supervisors would ruin the community if they approve JWA updates that she said are circumventions of the landmark 1985 settlement agreement, which she said should be amended to hold general aviation planes to the same standards as commercial carriers. We pay an incredible amount of money to live in this county. Money talks. We provide a lot of money for this county to operate, Jantzen said. The property tax revenues will plummet and reflect huge losses because the property values will drop. Treb Heining, a Newport resident and frequent international traveler who flies out of Los Angeles International Airport, didnt support any of the proposals. He said John Wayne Airport should be moved. I always marvel that we can be so small-minded here in Southern California in that were trying to fit a square peg into a round hole over and over, he said. LAX, Orange County airport all forced upon communities ... when other cities around the world do it so smart. They put their airports way far out. Supervisor Michelle Steel, whose district includes Newport Beach, said she wants to modernize aging facilities but also consider quality of life for nearby residents. Her motion for the basic plan got a second from Supervisor Don Wagner for sake of discussion but failed to get a majority vote. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Terri Swanson lives at the Crossing apartment community, a transit-oriented development adjacent to the Anaheim Canyon Metrolink Station. Swanson and her husband moved to the complex at 3530 E. La Palma Ave. in June so she could take a Metrolink train to Orange Station where she walks to her administrative assistant job at Chapman Universitys Attallah College of Educational Studies. Thats the main reason we decided to live there, Swanson said. The community rents a one-bedroom, one-bath apartment for $1,743 to $2,072 per month, according to the buildings website. Swanson said she usually sees one other passenger get on her morning train while employees disembark on their way to Kaiser Permanente Orange County - Anaheim Medical Center or the PacifiCenter office park. Her husband uses his car to commute to work. I see other cars leaving all the time, she said. The Southern California Assn. of Governments encourages city governments to offer incentives for residential development, especially affordable housing, near transit hubs to alleviate traffic on some of the most congested freeways in the country. Since transit-oriented development is a land-use issue, the Orange County Transportation Authority does not take a policy stance on the practice, said Eric Carpenter, an OCTA spokesman. OCTA does, of course, encourage people to use public transportation, including the Metrolink rail system as an alternative to getting behind the wheel and adding congestion to our crowded freeways, Carpenter said. In 2016, the city of Anaheim adopted the Anaheim Canyon Specific Plan which rezoned commercial properties on both sides of Anaheim Canyon Station as a transit-oriented area that could include workforce housing. OCTA plans to start construction in 2019 on a second track and platform at the Anaheim Canyon Station. The new platform will be on the same side as the Crossing apartments, allowing residents to board trains without crossing tracks. From July to November 2017, a daily average of 338 Metrolink riders boarded at Anaheim Canyon Station on weekdays. In that same time, a daily average of 1,614 riders boarded in Fullerton, 862 riders boarded in Santa Ana and 711 riders boarded in Orange. While transit-oriented living at apartment buildings like the Crossing may not be incredibly popular now, public officials such as Placentia City Manager Damien Arrula believe Orange Countys demand for this type of housing will increase as the 91 Freeway becomes even more crowded. Arrula spearheaded Placentias role in a planned Metrolink station and a 246-space parking structure in the citys historic downtown. OCTA plans to advertise bids for the stations construction in late April or early May 2018. Placentia will be the first new station on the Union Station to Riverside line in a decade. As city employees its our job to serve the community and to plan for the needs of our citizens, residents and visitors and to support our local economy, Arrula said. Arrula came to Placentia in 2014 from the city of El Monte, where he helped shepherd a transit-oriented development next to a regional bus station. The low vacancy rate among industrial or commercial properties can make it expensive for developers to purchase and redevelop them as high-density housing. Arrula said cities and developers who miss opportunities to build workforce housing run the risk of higher land costs in the future. This could translate into higher rents. Placentia plans to sell a parcel that formerly held a deteriorating packing house to a developer for a future transit-oriented development. Its preparing to request proposals from developers interested in acquiring the site. To capitalize on this planned transportation hub, Placentia City Council approved dual plans to encourage redevelopment of the industrial properties south of the BNSF railroad and revitalization of buildings in its historic downtown. Another common strategy in transit-oriented development is to build parking structures in downtown areas so people can drive from their homes, park in a structure, and take trains to downtown Los Angeles, the Inland Empire, or South Orange County. Construction crews are excavating space for underground parking at the site of a future parking structure near the Metrolink Station in Old Towne Orange. The structure is also expected to serve as desperately needed nighttime parking for local merchants. In 2016, Chapman Crafted Beer opened its brewery and tasting room next to the site of the future parking structure. Once the structure is done, Chapman Crafted co-owner Wil Dee plans to work with the city of Orange to transform an alley on the side of his building into a paseo that will allow pedestrians walk unimpeded to the train station. With the temporary loss of a public parking lot, Chapman Crafteds customers have to park a little farther but the long-term benefits to business owners, local residents, and train riders will be huge, Dee said. As far as the structure goes, its a long time coming, Dee said. Its fantastic for the city to be able to partner with OCTA to get that [parking]. Daniel Langhorne is a contributor to Times Community News. David Chereck, 15, disappeared Jan. 1, 1992, while on the way home from a night of playing video games with friends at a bowling alley in Skokie. Robert Serritella was found guilty of first-degree murder with the slaying of the Niles West High School honors student. Residents in Burbank and Glendale will have a chance to mingle with their local firefighters on Saturday when each citys fire department will open its doors for Fire Service Day. Held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., both cities will hold open houses at their respective fire headquarters in Burbank, at 200 N. Third St. and, in Glendale, at 421 Oak St. The events are free and open to the public. Each department will conduct live demonstrations by firefighters as well as serve free food and offer activities for children. The events coincide with National Police Week, and representatives from the Burbank and Glendale police departments will also be on hand during the day. For more information, Burbank residents can contact the Burbank Fire Department at (818) 238-3223 or visit burbankfire.us. The Glendale Fire Department can be contacted at (818) 548-4814 or glendalefire.org. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. The city will implement a two-month rent freeze beginning at the end of next month, as city officials wait for staff to bring back an ordinance that would place regulations on rent increases that have sent some longtime residents packing. After Dec. 27, landlords will not be able to raise their rents more than 5% above what they were on Sept. 18, according to the ordinance passed in a 3-1 vote by the Glendale City Council at nearly 1 a.m. on Wednesday. Then we can come back with something robust, that has teeth, said Mayor Zareh Sinanyan, who made the motion for the freeze toward the end of a seven-hour meeting. By the freezes expiration date of Feb. 27, city manager Yasmin Beers said staff members could have ready whats known as a Right to Lease ordinance for council members to consider. The ordinance would require landlords to offer tenants a one-year lease and attend mandatory hearings if they propose large rent hikes. Tenants would also have the right to receive relocation fees if rent increases exceed a specified percentage per year. With the debate over how to address the lack of affordable housing in the city spanning more than two years, lone dissenter Councilwoman Paula Devine said the few months staff said it needed to prepare the ordinance was negligible. Instead, she said the ordinance would do more harm than good, potentially scaring away investors and rattling the local market. Its a broad stroke thats affecting all of the landlords because of a few that are disreputable, so I dont think its fair to them, Devine said. In the past two years, thousands of people have left Glendale, Sinanyan responded. Its not just time, its lives that have been disrupted, he added. Weve lost human assets. Supporters, including Councilman Vrej Agajanian, said the goal is to prevent landlords from jacking up rents as the possibility of more permanent regulations loom. Councilman Vartan Gharpetian, who seemed to be on the fence, was the one who suggested reducing the length of the freeze to two months. He also said he would not vote to extend it. Originally, the council was considering a six-month freeze. Councilman Ara Najarian recused himself from the meeting and all other meetings concerning rent control for the time being because he owns an interest in several apartment buildings in the city. He said he was disappointed by the recusal ordered by a federal agency overseeing conflict-of-interest laws. I would like nothing more [than] to participate in this process and break the 2-2 tie that is tearing this city apart, Najarian said. Najarian was referring to a Nov. 13 Council meeting that ended with Sinanyan and Agajanian favoring rent control and Devine and Gharpetian leaning toward a Right to Lease ordinance. Staff was directed to prepare reports on both options. At that time, the council also seemed poised to adopt a six-month, 5% rent freeze, with Devine joining the rest in directing staff to prepare an ordinance. The initial move, in part, was modeled on the L.A. County Board of Supervisors decision in mid-September to implement a six-month rent-increase limit of 3% in the countys unincorporated areas, which include communities north of Glendale and west of La Canada Flintridge. At the most recent meeting, Agajanian rescinded his support for rent control and said he would support a Right to Lease ordinance with several conditions. Sinanyan announced his support for rent control in September, but also appeared ready to compromise. There was no mention this week of bringing back a rent control report. Residents and stakeholders on both sides of the issue registered a lack of clarity following Tuesdays meeting, similar to a feeling that prevailed at the previous one. [Council members] had very muddled thinking about what they were there to do tonight, said Linda Neumier, a Glendale resident who supports rent control, just after the meeting. They were also naive to think that their inaction wouldnt have an immediate financial repercussion for renters. Our rents are going up, she added. Local real estate broker Albert Hairapetian, who said he thinks the market will naturally stabilize rents, also said confusion has already set in, with people in the hallway after the meeting asking him to explain what had happened. By the time someone enacts a rent increase, or tries to figure out the algorithm [based] on how the meeting turned out the sunset clause will pretty much put an end to it, and were going to be back to square one again, Hairapetian said. lila.seidman@latimes.com Twitter: @lila_seidman A Glendale man faces 23 years in prison after pleading guilty on Monday to embezzling more than $2.8 million from his workplace in Burbank. Sean Edin Talaee, 62, pleaded guilty to one count each of mail fraud and subscribing to a false income tax return. Authorities said Talaee used his position as the controller of Printograph Inc., a commercial printing company, to steal money from the firm from October 2015 to June 2018 by falsifying checks to the Internal Revenue Service. As controller, Talaee oversaw Printographs accounting and tax payments. The IRS said in a statement that Talaee would get tax payment checks signed off by the companys president before they were sent to the federal agency. The checks would usually be for $200,000 or $400,000. On at least eight occasions, he inserted his own taxpayer information on IRS voucher forms when sending out the payment checks. The IRS said this allowed him to claim the tax payments for himself, leading the agency to credit the money to his bank account. This wont be the first time Talaee will serve time for an embezzlement scheme. He was accused by the California Franchise Tax Board in 2004 of embezzling $525,000 from a Covina-based aerospace subcontractor, where he was employed as a controller. He served three years in prison after pleading no contest to charges of grand theft and filing a false state income tax return. Besides misappropriating money from Printograph, Talaee underreported his own personal income on his tax returns by failing to report the embezzled money for 2015, 2016 and 2017, authorities said. In addition to the prison sentence, he was hit with a $350,000 fine and may be required to pay $740,085 in restitution to the IRS. Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Glendale police seized more than 200 marijuana plants from a Sun Valley home during a probation compliance check last week that led to three arrests, police said. A married couple and their cousin were arrested on suspicion of drug sales and fraud. However, police werent looking for the trio. Glendales AB 109 Task Force created three years ago to address the local impact of the states criminal realignment law supervises anywhere from 40 to 50 Glendale residents on post-release community supervision. However, the task force, which includes officers from Glendale and Burbank, also keeps its eye on probationers and parolees who come through the city. Thats how Andrey Arutyunyan made it on the teams radar. From left to right, Michael Petrosian, Marine Petrosian and Armen Simonyan were arrested last week after Glendale police, while executing a probation compliance check for a man named Andrey Arutyunyan, discovered a marijuana grow house, guns and fraudulent identification and credit cards at a Sun Valley home. (Courtesy of the Glendale Police Department) Arutyunyan, who police identified as a known gang member on probation, was cited in Glendale last August after patrol officers approached him for a smoking violation and discovered that he had a loaded syringe in his pocket, according to Glendale Police Sgt. Robert Rosas, who supervises the task force. Thats what prompts our unit to go out and conduct a compliance check, Rosas said. What weve found is a lot of different crimes that occur in the city are [by] individuals living outside of the area. But the task force didnt find Arutyunyan at the Sun Valley home. Authorities later discovered that hed been evicted in June and is actually in jail in Missouri, where his family had reportedly sent him for drug treatment, on a pending assault charge. Instead, officers uncovered an elaborate marijuana farm in a converted garage, leading them to seize more than 200 marijuana plants, 5 pounds of packaged marijuana, two loaded guns, cash and packaging materials, according to Glendale Police spokeswoman Tahnee Lightfoot. While executing a probation compliance check, Glendale police discovered a marijuana grow house in Sun Valley. (Courtesy of the Glendale Police Department) Los Angeles utility officials cut the power in the home due to illegal electrical work and a $4,000 unpaid electric bill. The residents married couple Michael, 28, and Marine Petrosian, 24 were arrested on suspicion of cultivating marijuana. Michael Petrosian, who reportedly told police the operation was legal, was also booked on suspicion of possessing marijuana for sale. The couple told police they did not know Arutyunyan, but police reportedly found mail addressed to Arutyunyan in Michael Petrosians car. Meanwhile, Michael Petrosians cousin Armen Simonyan, a 27-year-old North Hollywood resident, showed up while police were at the home, Rosas said. He was arrested on suspicion of credit- and debit-card fraud after police reportedly found him in possession of fraudulent identification and credit cards. The trio was released from police custody after posting bail. -- Alene Tchekmedyian, alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com Twitter: @atchek A high seas behemoth sailed into the Port of Los Angeles last week, its top deck bristling with monster-size toys and games. Norwegian Joy, more than 1,000 feet long and able to hold nearly 4,000 passengers, was on an inaugural West Coast voyage, showing itself off to travel industry personnel, the media and anyone in the vicinity of the San Pedro cruise terminal. The big ships top deck racetrack and giant slides were hard to miss. Joy is one of an increasing number of cruise ships that will sail out of Southern California ports in the near future. Its sister ship, Norwegian Bliss, began cruising to Mexico from Los Angeles last fall. Bliss was so popular that we decided to bring Joy to the West Coast too, said Andy Stuart, Norwegian president and chief executive. Joy, built in 2016 for the China cruise market, got a $50-million refit before heading west. Advertisement Tea rooms became bars, we took out cabins to expand the observation deck, changed every carpet, expanded the gym and spa treatment rooms, Stuart said during a shipboard interview. We wanted to bring a new ship to the West Coast market. We wanted it to have a new ship smell. Like sister ship Bliss, Joy has a two-level racetrack, a tech-drive virtual world in the Galaxy Pavilion, and a VIP ship-within-a-ship area called Haven, with its own accommodations, pool, lounge areas, restaurant, bar and concierge. Norwegian Joy has a VIP area called the Haven, with deluxe accommodations and other perks. (Norwegian Cruise Line) Joy will sail to the Mexican Riviera from San Pedro beginning in the fall. Prices start at $599 per person, double occupancy, for an inside cabin. After leaving San Pedro last week, Joy sailed for Seattle, where it is beginning round-trip voyages to Alaska, visiting the Inside Passage and ports such as Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria, British Columbia. Prices for an inside cabin start at $799 per person, double occupancy. It will sail from Vancouver, British Columbia, to L.A. on Oct. 6, sail from L.A. through the Panama Canal to Miami on Oct. 11, begin sailing weeklong Mexican Riviera cruises from L.A. between Nov. 24 and Jan. 12, and sail a five-day Baja, Mexico, cruise from Los Angeles on Jan. 12. Info: Norwegian Cruise Line, (866) 234-7350, or contact a travel agent travel@latimes.com @latimestravel Long before casinos and A-list residencies, Las Vegas was a dusty desert town in the Wild West. The city celebrates that bygone era this weekend with festivities that include plenty of cowboys and horses during Las Vegas Days on Friday and Saturday. The Western-theme activities hark back to the citys early years before the arrival of legalized casinos in the early 1930s, which heralded the beginning of the gambling era. Visitors can enjoy plenty of action all of it free during a rodeo 5 to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights. The events include bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and saddle bronc riding. Winners share a $40,000 purse. The action is free during a two-night rodeo this weekend in downtown Las Vegas. With seven events, including bull riding and barrel racing, the rodeo is part of Las Vegas Days, a tribute to the citys Wild West era. (City of Las Vegas) Advertisement The rodeo will be held at the new Core Arena at the Plaza Hotel-Casino at the west end of Fremont Street. Saturday morning will mark the 85th anniversary of Las Vegas Helldorado Parade, first held in 1934, which features equestrian groups and Western-theme floats along with car clubs and marching bands. The parade begins at 10 a.m., moving along Fourth Street between Ogden and Gass avenues. Plenty of cowboys will be astride their horses this weekend for Las Vegas Days. (City of Las Vegas) While many reminders of the Wild West have disappeared, horseback riding is still common on streets of some neighborhoods. Hitching posts remain at some of the older strip malls. Las Vegas hosts a number of rodeo-related events throughout the year, including the granddaddy of them all, the National Finals Rodeo held each December. Info: Las Vegas Days Rodeo, Helldorado Parade travel@latimes.com @latimestravel Winter arrived on election day in Johannesburg, and at one polling station in the citys Soweto section, supporters of the ruling African National Congress tucked their green, yellow and black party flags into their woolly hats, waiting in the cold for President Cyril Ramaphosa to arrive. Ramaphosa, who took over as head of state after scandal-prone Jacob Zuma stepped down last year, has been leading the charge ahead of Wednesdays vote, a crucial test for Nelson Mandelas party that has governed South Africa since its first free, multiracial elections in 1994. Though the ANC is widely expected to hold on to its majority in the vote, the liberation partys support has been declining. Twenty-five years ago, millions of South Africans stood in line for hours to exercise their right to vote for the first time. Now many here believe the government has not done enough to dislodge the legacy of the system of racial segregation and subjugation imposed on black South Africans by a white-minority government for most of the 20th century. Advertisement A Pew survey released last week found 64% of South Africans were dissatisfied with their democracy. Zumas nine years in office were marred by a string of corruption allegations and a bruising economic slump. The unemployment rate now stands at 27% and over 50% for people younger than 25 and South Africa has been rated by the World Bank as the most unequal country in the world. An ANC veteran and respected businessman, the 66-year-old Ramaphosa has brought a new sense of accountability to the partys rhetoric, pledging to stamp out corruption, create jobs and get South Africa back on its once-promising growth path. Longtime supporter Herbert Sithole, standing outside the Soweto polling station waiting to see the president cast his ballot, thinks he is up to the task. A new dawn has arrived, said the 56-year-old, who, like many older ANC voters, supported the party throughout its long fight to end apartheid. Ramaphosa is a man of integrity. I trust him. But many younger voters, including the born free generation, born into a democratic South Africa, dont feel the same sense of allegiance to Mandelas party and are turning to opposition parties who they think can do better. The two largest, the Democratic Alliance and the Economic Freedom Fighters, have also been campaigning on promises to create more jobs and bring an end to corruption. So far, neither has been able to mount a critical challenge to the ANC. The Democratic Alliance is hampered by the perception that it represents the interests of the white middle class, and the Economic Freedom Fighters fiery rhetoric and far-left policies, such as nationalizing South Africas land, banks and mines, alienate moderately minded voters. But that dynamic is destined to shift in a country where nearly 30% of the population is younger than 15. Several recent polls show the Economic Freedom Fighters, a small party that has been savvy about reaching young voters, could double its vote share since the last national elections in 2014, from 6.4% to 12% or even 15%. On Sunday, energized supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters streamed into Orlando Stadium in Soweto, clad in the partys trademark red jumpsuits, hard hats and custom dresses bearing the visage of its leader, Julius Malema. Amanda Carmon, a 28-year-old chef in Johannesburg, said she used to support the ANC but switched her allegiance to the Economic Freedom Fighters five years ago. The ruling party is looking after only its own political elite, Carmon said, but the Economic Freedom Fighters is looking out for the younger generation. We want to be as comfortable as everyone else, she said. Mahr is a special correspondent. Facebook, Twitter and Google have been under fire all over the world for not doing enough to police their platforms for misinformation. The Singaporean government thinks it has a solution: a law that imposes jail time and hundreds of thousands of dollars in potential fines for posting or failing to correct what it calls online falsehoods that harm the public interest. But the bill, which passed late Wednesday night and still needs the presidents signature, has garnered widespread criticism from academics, journalists, human rights advocates, artists and internet companies. Critics say the effects of the Protection From Online Falsehoods and Manipulation bill will ripple beyond online platforms and have a chilling effect on freedom of expression and academic research. They fear the government will use the law to silence its opponents in a country that has been dominated by one political party since it gained independence from Britain more than 50 years ago. Advertisement Its unclear when President Halimah Yacob intends to sign the bill. The real aim of the government through this bill is to protect the ruling party and achieve political monopoly, Low Thia Khiang, a long-serving opposition member of Parliament, said in a speech Tuesday before the legislature. Singapores government says the law wont hinder free speech or academic research and is mostly designed to target malicious trolls, bots and fake accounts. It argues the country of 5.6 million is especially vulnerable to misinformation because of its ethnically and religiously diverse society, which is mostly split among Chinese, Indian and Malay communities. The measure targets falsehoods, not free speech, the Ministry of Law said in a prepared statement last month. It will help ensure online falsehoods do not drown out authentic speech and ideas and undermine democratic processes and society. The aim is to keep in place the conditions for Singaporeans, as individuals and civic society, to build a healthy and robust public discourse, informed by the facts. Among the most controversial aspects of the legislation is how it makes Singapores government ministers arbiters of facts something the government says is necessary in order to respond to misinformation quickly. When the ministers identify a falsehood they deem harmful to the public interest, they can force a website or individual to remove the content or display a correction. Failure to comply can result in up to 10 years in jail and a fine of up to $735,000. In the name of fake news, Asian governments tighten control on social media The bill offers a broad definition of what constitutes the public interest, citing national security, public confidence in the government and relations with other countries, among others. Government officials said it does not cover opinion, satire, parody or criticism, but also does not explicitly state exemptions for those forms of speech. The government said an appeal process will be established, though it must go through the minister who first lodged the complaint about a falsehood. Critics say the bill doesnt provide enough safeguards against government overreach. This puts an extraordinary amount of power in the hands of individual ministers, without a yardstick or consistent criteria to determine how ministers, who could come from different ministries and be issuing orders across a range of different types of publications, will reach or justify their decisions, Jeff Paine, managing director of the Asia Internet Coalition, a trade group representing tech firms such as Facebook and Google, wrote in an op-ed in the Straits Times. Facebook, which like Google maintains a major office in Singapore, said it supports legislation combating misinformation, but added it has already taken steps to address the problem. We are, however, concerned with aspects of the law that grant broad powers to the Singapore executive branch to compel us to remove content they deem to be false and proactively push a government notification to users, Simon Milner, vice president of public policy for Facebook in Asia, said in a prepared statement. Silicon Valley tech companies have been under enormous pressure to clean up their platforms after the spread of false news exacerbated violence and tensions in Myanmar, Sri Lanka and the United States. Governments around the world, including in Russia, Malaysia and France, have introduced regulations seeking to stem the spread of so-called fake news. Activists say Singapores law could inspire other governments to introduce similar controls. Its not a stretch to see Singapores problematic Big Brother attitude toward internet content being copied by other authoritarian governments in the region, said Phil Robertson, deputy director of Human Rights Watchs Asia division. In Southeast Asia, bad human rights ideas spread among governments like the flu in a kindergarten class. Tech companies long argued that they bore no responsibility for their content because they were neutral platforms, not publishers. But Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, which belongs to Googles parent company, Alphabet, have recently bowed to public pressure and increased efforts to remove problematic content. The debate in Singapore highlights the fine line between censorship and policing of content for public safety. That line becomes harder to navigate credibly the more a country exhibits a track record of suppressing speech, experts say. Singapore ranks 151 out of 180 countries in a World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, rating worse than repressive nations such as Myanmar and Cambodia. Meanwhile, Freedom House classifies the city-state as only partly free. There are several challenges to freedom of expression and voice in Singapore, said Mohan Dutta, a communications professor at Massey University in New Zealand who used to work at the National University of Singapore. These challenges may be evident in a variety of indicators, from press freedom and academic freedom to freedom of assembly. I see these aspects as key contextual features that need to be taken into account when considering this law. Kirsten Han, a Singaporean journalist and activist, said the law could backfire by undermining trust in the government and public institutions it seeks to protect. What worries me about this law is also that it might further perpetuate a culture where we end up relying on the authorities far too much to process news and information for us, which is ultimately counter-productive if one of the other prongs of the multi-pronged fight against fake news is to increase media literacy, she said in an e-mail. Instead of fostering public confidence in the government and public institutions, we could end up creating an environment where people feel that the government is using a law like [this] not to establish fact, but for partisan gain, she added. It might actually end up making things worse. The Cuban government announced Tuesday that it has canceled this years edition of a parade widely seen as a sign of progress on gay rights on the island. The state-run Center for Sex Education headed by Mariela Castro, the daughter of Communist Party First Secretary Raul Castro, said in a Facebook post that the Conga Against Homophobia scheduled for an unspecified date this month had been canceled on orders of the Ministry of Health. The statement attributed the cancellation to new tensions in the international and regional context that directly and indirectly affect our country and have tangible and intangible impacts in the normal development of our daily life and the implementation of the policies of the Cuban state. The statement did not explain what that meant. Officials with the sexual education center, known by its Spanish acronym CENESEX, did not respond to requests for comment or said they didnt know why the march was canceled. Advertisement Tensions with the United States are high over the situation in Venezuela, where the Trump administration wants to oust the Cuban-backed administration of President Nicolas Maduro. And Cubas economy is stricken by shortages in basic goods attributed in large part to a decline in subsidized oil from Venezuela. It was unclear how either of those factors required the cancellation of a gay pride march, although Cuban officials tend to impose more controls of all types in moments when the country is perceived to be under threat. The issue of gay rights has become unusually controversial in Cuba in recent months because of resistance from the countrys growing ranks of evangelical Christians. The Cuban government persecuted gays in the 1960s and 1970s but has since outlawed discrimination and come to be seen as relatively progressive on the rights of lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people. The government funds gender reassignment surgeries, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is outlawed, and police receive training designed to avoid disrespectful treatment of homosexuals and transgender people. The conga, a parade of hundreds of LGBT people waving rainbow flags and dancing down one of Havanas main thoroughfares, became an internationally lauded symbol of Cubas acceptance of gay and transgender rights. A second parade was planned this year for the eastern city of Camaguey, as part of the 12th celebration of an event known as the Days Against Homophobia and Transphobia. The festival started Monday, lasts until May 18 and features workshops, seminars, film screenings and a cultural gala. CENESEX said the cancellation of the march was only for this year, and could be revisited in 2020. Its a government decision, said group coordinator Malu Cano. Its nothing against us. Otherwise they would have suspended all of our activities. The government had proposed legalizing gay marriage in a constitutional reform that was approved in a February referendum but the item was removed after widespread resistance from a wide range of Cubans including evangelicals. Alida Leon, president of Cubas Evangelical League, said her church and others in years past had requested permits to hold marches in favor of traditional gender roles at the same time as the gay rights march. She said the requests were rejected so the evangelicals did not request permission again this year. Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row for a blasphemy conviction before she was exonerated last year, has fled to Canada and reunited with her four children, her lawyer said Wednesday. She left Pakistan last night and has safely landed at Canada, where she is with her family, lawyer Saiful Malook told The Times. Malook said Bibi and her husband, Ashiq Masih, left Pakistan together. Their children had fled to Canada earlier for security reasons. Lawyers and Pakistani authorities were withholding details of the familys new location to protect them, they said. It is a big day for Asia Bibi and for me, Malook said. Justice has been dispensed. It was not an easy journey for her. Eight dreadful years in prison with hardly a hope to come out. Advertisement Bibi had been held in protective custody since October 2018, when Pakistans Supreme Court overturned a blasphemy conviction for which she had been sentenced to death in 2010. The milestone Supreme Court decision marked a modest victory for religious pluralism in Muslim-majority Pakistan and was met with nationwide protests by hard-line Islamist groups. The Pakistani government held Bibi for her safety in an undisclosed location after Islamist groups threatened to kill her. A senior official in Pakistans foreign ministry confirmed that Bibi left Pakistan on Tuesday night. She was a free citizen after the Supreme Court acquitted her, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity under diplomatic protocol. She left Pakistan on her free will. Bibi, who is from a village about 50 miles west of the city of Lahore, was a farm laborer who got into an argument in 2009 with two Muslim women who objected to her drinking water from the same well. A mob later accused Bibi of insulting the prophet Muhammad, which equates to blasphemy and is a capital offense in Pakistan. A local court sentenced her to death in 2010, although she maintained her innocence. She was the first woman to be sentenced to death for blasphemy in Pakistan, and hers became one of the highest-profile capital cases in Pakistans history. Easter attack in Pakistan shows how poor civilians remain the easiest targets In January 2011, the governor of Punjab province, Salman Taseer, was assassinated by his police guard after he met Bibi in jail and expressed support for her appeals. The Supreme Court last October threw out Bibis conviction, saying there was no evidence to support the charge. Blasphemy is a highly sensitive issue in Pakistan as even accusations can spark mob violence. In April 2017, Mashal Khan, a 23-year-old graduate student, was lynched by classmates on blasphemy accusations. Human rights activists say blasphemy charges are frequently used to settle personal scores. In 1997, a judge who acquitted a blasphemy defendant was killed. Sahi is a special correspondent. An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday, and Cooper said his office will be using dental records to confirm his identity, and it might be a day or two before the name can be released officially. He added that if the office needs to use DNA to confirm his identity, it could take a month for official confirmation. U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo made a lightning visit Tuesday to Baghdad aimed at showing support for the Iraqi government as the United States has been picking up intelligence that Iran is threatening American interests in the Middle East. The top American diplomats unannounced trip to the Iraqi capital began and ended after nightfall under heavy security following the abrupt cancellation of a visit to Germany. Journalists from the Associated Press and other organizations accompanying Pompeo were not told of his new destination until his plane left for Baghdad and were not allowed to report on his whereabouts until after his plane had taken off for London. The secretary told reporters on the flight that his meetings with Iraqs president and prime minister were intended to demonstrate U.S. support for a sovereign, independent Iraq, free from the influence of neighboring Iran. Advertisement Pompeo also said he wanted to underscore Iraqs need to protect Americans in the country. We wanted to let them know about the increased threat stream that we had seen and give them a little bit more background on that so they could ensure that they were doing all they could to provide protection for our team, he said. They understood, too, its important for their country. Pompeos visit came as the Trump administration intensified its pressure campaign against Iran. The U.S. said this week that it was rushing an aircraft carrier group to the Middle East to deter or respond to any Iranian attack. U.S. officials have said there were indications Iran was planning to retaliate for the Trump administrations stepped-up sanctions on the country, although the threat information remains vague. Pompeo would not be specific about the more recent threat information involving Iran except that it involved imminent plans for attacks. Were taking every action to deter them, he said. Other than that, I just cant say any more. U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo speaks to reporters on May 8, 2019, after a previously unannounced trip to Baghdad. Pompeo landed in Baghdad late on May 7 on the unannounced visit. (Mandel Ngan / Pool Photo) Before landing in Baghdad he said that he would make clear in his meetings that any attack by Iran or its proxies on American forces in Iraq would affect the Iraqi government too. The campaign to continue to prevent ISIS terror inside of Iraq itself is something thats very central ... to the Iraqi government, Pompeo said, using an acronym for the Islamic State extremist group. In Washington, an American official said the decision to deploy the carrier group and a group of Air Force bombers to the Middle East was based in part on intelligence indications that Iran had moved short-range ballistic missiles by boat in waters off its shores. Iran, meanwhile, was expected to announce Wednesday that it would partially withdraw from the nuclear deal it struck with world powers in 2015. As tensions rise between Washington and Tehran, Baghdad in some ways is caught in the middle. Iraq has a close relationship with the U.S., which is leading the international coalition in the war against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria. More than 5,000 U.S. troops are stationed on Iraqi soil. But Iraq is also tightly enmeshed with Iran in trade, security and political matters, and it has been loath to antagonize its larger neighbor. Iran won the ear of many top Iraqi politicians after it stepped in to fill the political vacuum following the 2003 U.S. invasion. It also can count on the loyalty of several powerful Iraqi militias, which have fought previously against U.S. forces in the country and on the side of Irans allies in Syria in that countrys civil war. In his first year, Pompeo brought swagger but made little progress on foreign policy priorities Responding to a question about whether Iraq could protect U.S. interests from attacks by Iran and its proxy forces, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said Tuesday that Iraq takes its responsibilities seriously. This is an obligation that Iraq honors, he said. The Trump administration has made several recent moves to squeeze Iran. Last month, President Trump announced that the U.S. would no longer exempt any countries from U.S. sanctions if they continue to buy Iranian oil. The U.S. also designated Irans Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist group, the first time it has ever taken such a step for an entire division of another government. Trump withdrew from the Obama administrations landmark nuclear deal with Iran in May 2018 and, in the months that followed, reinstated punishing sanctions, including those targeting Irans oil, shipping and banking sectors. While Trump has sought to dismantle much of President Obamas policies, he particularly criticized the Iran nuclear deal for failing to address Tehrans ballistic missile program and what he described as its malign influence across the rest of the Mideast. Wedding ceremonies are often considered a beautiful thing but when it comes to Nigerian weddings however, the definition of beauty is redefined in the most colourful and vibrant ways, leaving many people in awe at the aesthetics. For beautiful Nigerian bride, Tosin and her boo, their traditional wedding ceremony was not only beautiful, but pleasantly alluring. Choosing the colours, green, white with a little touch of red, the couple and their wedding squads served major goals on their big day. While Tosin and her husband rocked similar white and red attires, the bridesmaid stunned in green and the groomen in white. READ ALSO: Personal letter from the Editor-in-Chief of Legit.ng (former NAIJ.com) The photographer of the day identified as Felix Crown took to Instagram to share some awesome shots from the event. See photos below: READ ALSO: Popular 'yahoo yahoo' kingpin who's a married father of two arrested in Calabar READ ALSO: Actress Tonto Dikeh debunks reports claiming she cannot marry an Igbo man HELLO! NAIJ.com (naija.ng) upgrades to Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. Meanwhile, former Big Brother Naija 2018 housemate, Ifiemi Angel Awotarigha, has shared an official and adorable photo of his newly wedded Canadian wife, Felicia. The actor legally married his Canadian model girlfriend, Felicia, recently in a registry in Port Harcourt, Rivers state on Tuesday, April 30, 2019. Do Tiwa Savage and Wizkid Make a 'Good' Couple? - Nigeria Street Gist | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng The report calls for more eating and drinking businesses in the village, along with specialty stores, grocers and stores that are e-commerce resistant. The template for that type of retail seems to be at Deer Park Town Center and right across Milwaukee Avenue from Hawthorn Center, in the new Mellody Farm, a mix of grocery, retail and restaurants. - Lagos big boy BNaira is living his best life and wants the world to know - In a recent post shared on Instagram, the self-made multi-millionaire announced that he has joined the Ferrari family - BNaira shared a photo of his new Ferrari whip and looked super proud to be joining the elite family Nigerian big boy, BNaira, has everything he could ever ask for and he is making sure to enjoy every moment of his fabulous and wealthy life. In a recent post shared on Instagram, the self-made multi millionaire flaunted his newly acquired Ferrari sport car and announced that he feels honoured to be joining the Ferrari family. The big boy who is a successful bitcoin trader is known to own other exotic cars including a G-wagon which he also often flaunts on social media. For many years, the name BNaira has been associated with wealth and has even become a brand of sorts. READ ALSO: I choose my wife and kids over my brothers - Peter Okoye speaks See photo below: PAY ATTENTION: Get your daily relationship tips and advice on Africa Love Aid group Meanwhile, 29-year-old popular 'yahoo' kingpin, Akpojivi Joel Onoriode, has been arrested by the operatives of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Onoriode was one of the four internet fraudsters recently rounded up in Calabar during two separate raids carried out in the early hours of Saturday, May 4, 2019 and Sunday, May 5, 2019. Onoriode who is a graduate of Delta State University, Abraka was arrested in his magnificent duplex located at Plot 10, Block VI, Unical Satellite Town in Calabar. The married father of two has been in the yahoo-yahoo business for a long time and was known as Blinks or Mr White. After his arrest, he revealed he currently operates an offshore account in China. Did you know? NAIJ.com (naija.ng) is now-> Legit.ng We have updated to serve you better. Nigeria Celebrities: How Much Do They Spend On Luxury Life? on Legit TV Source: Legit.ng Tanzania's minister for works, transport and communications, Eng Isack Kamwele, said the country is set to test its first, maiden, cheaper and very superior own funded electric train. CTGN reports that the train is tipped to be one of Africa's high speed trains with projected speeds of up to 160 mph. Kamwele disclosed this at a historic event to launch the flash butt welding of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) exercise. READ ALSO: Wike replies Amaechi, says the minister is not owner of Rivers state The minister said first trials for the speedy electric train will be conducted in July this year to cover a section of the SGR. The first 300 km phase running from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro with 6 stations in between will commence its operations in December this year, Kamwele reportedly said. There will be three passenger trains in phase one at the starting point that will be taking daily round trips between the two cities. Each passenger train is capable of making 9 to 12 trips a day or more. The train will use concrete sleepers which improve durability and give the railway network capacity to carry up to 35 tonnes per axle loads. The rails can survive up to 40 years before any major repairs while the train bridge can survive up to 100 years. The project has boosted the country's employment as over 26,000 jobs have been created by the $1.9bn project. More job opportunities are expected in the second phase and subsequent ones and once the stations becomes fully operational. READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that statistics from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) showed that the Abuja-Kaduna railway has carried 1.5 million passengers in 1,000 days of operation. Fidet Okhira, the managing director of the NRC disclosed this at an event to mark the great achievement in the railway service history of Nigeria. The head of NRC said that it was quite a milestone that there were no accidents like train derailment and other major failures. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng: We have upgraded to serve you better Nigeria Latest News: The Abuja Metro is West Africa's First Light Rail Network | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng - Nollywood actor, Ejike Asiegbu, has condemned the ongoing banditry and killings in Zamfara state - The actor who led other Nollywood celebrities said the senseless killings in parts of north west Nigeria, precisely Zamfara state by political actors and their cohorts must stop -Asiegbu alleged that politicians have carried on their political activities which have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and the destruction of properties Concerned Actors and Seasoned Nollywood Stars has called for for an end to the sponsorship of the senseless killings in parts of north west Nigeria, precisely Zamfara state by political actors and their cohorts. The group lead by an actor and a former president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, AGN, Ejike Asigbeu in Lagos on Wednesday, May 8, said they were alarmed about the senseless and perceived politically-motivated killings in parts of north west Nigeria. Speaking during the rally, Asiegbu called on the gold miners and the sponsors of these dastardly acts to sheathe their swords and embrace peace in the interest of humanity. Asiegbu said if Zamfara politicians failed to stop the senseless killings in their interest Nollywood stars were ready to take this campaign beyond the shores of Nigeria, down to the United Nations. Nollywood actor, Ejike Asiegbu, has condemned the ongoing banditry and killings in Zamfara state Source: UGC He said Nollywood has watched "the horror movie" in Zamfara state and concluded that politicians had thrown the sanctity of human lives to the dogs. READ ALSO: Presidential election tribunal begins sitting over Atikus petition He said the politicians have carried with their political activities which have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and the destruction of properties. Asiegbu said: "The sanctity of human life must be respected by these politicians that have brought hell to families in Zamfara state." Asiegbu alleged that politicians have carried with their political activities which have resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and the destruction of properties Source: UGC "The worrisome aspect of the whole issue is the fact that these politicians have been dramatizing in public and on the pages of newspapers condemning the killings when in truth, the entire world knows they are the ones behind the senseless killing of innocent women and children because of their vested interest," Asiegbu said. He added that the protest became necessary due to the fact that the security of lives and properties is not the job for only the military or the police. According to him, all hands to be on deck with critical stakeholders such as the Concerned Actors and Seasoned Nollywood Stars coming out to raise awareness to the plight of the people of north west Nigeria. READ ALSO: Once Kano Assembly passes bill splitting Kano emirate, I will sign it - Ganduje "There is no doubt that our security agencies have been up and doing in the task of protecting lives and properties in Zamfara state and its environs. However, they still need our support in ensuring that peace returns to Zamfara state and its surroundings. "We consequently call on the gold miners and the sponsors of these dastardly acts to sheathe their swords and embrace peace in the interest of humanity. "We shall also spare no initiative to ensure that in the world over, nobody buys their blood-soaked gold which has become the basis for the senseless killings in Zamfara state and other parts of north west Nigeria," the actor said. READ ALSO: NAIJ.com upgrades to Legit.ng: a letter from our Editor-in-Chief Bayo Olupohunda Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the Coalition of Northern Nigerian Youths Associations, under the umbrella of Arewa Youths Federation, on Monday, May 6, held a peaceful protest over alleged incessant killings by bandits in Zamfara. The peaceful rally was held in Gusau the capital of the state. Adamu Matazu, the president Arewa youths federation, said the protest was to highlight the level of insecurity in the state and the entire northwestern zone, so as to elicit positive action to contain it. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng Same great journalism, upgraded for better service! Buhari should put an end to banditry, unrest in Zamfara - Nigerians cry | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng Despite the negative reputation that precedes Nigeria, it appears there are still some people in other countries who have refused to harbor prejudice for what Nigeria is believed to be by other countries. An Italian woman identified as Irene Rizzo, has left many Nigerians on social media impressed and delighted after she spoke about her trip to Abuja, Nigeria. In her tweet, she revealed her Italian friends were surprised by her choice of destination. She wrote: "My Italian friends are still surprised to hear that I went to #Nigeria for #tourism! But I'm happy that so many are curious to know about my experience in #Abuja, knowledge is the way to fight #prejudice and create bridges" READ ALSO: Personal letter from the Editor-in-Chief of Legit.ng (former NAIJ.com) READ ALSO: Annie Idibia loses dad after battle with cancer Many Nigerians on Twitter were impressed by her post and commented, urging her to visit again as the country isn't as bad as it has been portrayed in the media. See reactions below: READ ALSO: Popular 'yahoo yahoo' kingpin who's a married father of two arrested in Calabar Meanwhile, when it comes to Nigerian music, a lot of energy is often put into dancing to the rhythm and as expected, not so many people can keep up, especially, non-Africans. Well, this particular oyinbo man put an end to the obviously flawed belief that white people have no rhythm on the dance floor or perhaps, he simply displayed the aftermath of Nigerian jollof consumption. HELLO! NAIJ.com (naija.ng) upgrades to Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. If you could choose your country of birth, what country would that be? | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng Controversial Nigerian male barbie, Bobrisky, has lambasted fans who go on his page to call him 'bro'. According to him, he is a baby girl, a pretty woman at that. In a new video posted by Bobrisky, he said it is only an unfortunate human being that will come on his page to use words which connote what he is not. Bobrisky Source: UGC 'Hello guys, good evening to you. This video is for some idiots on my page. I'm going to post a picture and you tell me, you look good bro. Who is your bro? Please, tani bro e? Your bro is in Yaba, collecting treatment. I am a beautiful girl. So if I post a picture, and you want to comment, you comment and say, You look beautiful baby girl, pretty woman. Don't come to my post and tell me bro. Eyawere ni? Let us learn how to respect ourselves for this Instagram. Or else, we will open our yansh. So, becareful.' READ ALSO : Bobrisky shocks Nigerians as he shows off major cleavage in new photo, social media users react See video below: Just recently, Nollywood actress Anita Joseph recently weighed in on an attack aimed at internet sensation Bobrisky. He was featured in a Nigerian movie that had him as the lead role. This was said to have set off some movie lovers who found it offensive. In the light of insults hurled at Bobrisky, Anita Joseph stood up for the cross dresser whom she considers to be her friend. She shunned those who abused him and particularly attacked a colleague of hers named Charles Awurum. HELLO! NAIJ.com (naija.ng) upgrades to Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. Bobrisky bares it all | Legit TV Source: Legit.ng More than a year after Las Vegas Sands revealed it was selling off its Bethlehem casino to an Alabama-based Indian tribe, the $1.3 billion sale is expected to go before state regulators next week. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is scheduled to meet at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15, in Harrisburg, and Bethlehems Mayor Bob Donchez says the casino sale to Wind Creek Hospitality is tentatively on the agenda. The board has not yet released an official agenda for the meeting. The mayor, city Business Administrator Eric Evans and Director of Community and Economic Development Alicia Miller Karner all plan to attend the hearing, Donchez told Bethlehem City Council on Tuesday evening. The affiliate of the Alabama-based Poarch Band of Creek Indians and the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem submitted a change of ownership petition to the board Feb. 21. The petition asks the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to impose a $3.75 million change of ownership fee on the sale, which is what two similar casinos -- Meadows and Presque Isle -- recently paid in sale fees. Ultimately, it is up to the board to decide what fee to charge. If the gaming control board approves the transfer of the casino license, the sale could close within the month, Donchez said. The sale of one of Pennsylvanias most lucrative gaming halls is going to mean a massive cash infusion for local government coffers. The real estate transfer tax could net the Bethlehem Area School District and city each up to $6.5 million.The citys five-year capital plan includes $5.9 million from the casino transfer tax. Donchez is hopeful that the sale jumpstarts redevelopment of the former Bethlehem Steel Corp. plant thats stalled as the Sands has looked to unload its smallest holding. Once the sale is finalized, Wind Creek plans to immediately invest $190 million into a 300-room hotel expansion and development of the No. 2 Machine Shop, possibly into an indoor water park. Today, Las Vegas Sands is the majority owner of Sands BethWorks Gaming LLC, which owns the events center, casino and surrounding land totaling about 56 acres. Local attorney and developer Michael Perrucci, New York real estate developer Barry Gosin and their business partners have about a 10 percent share in BethWorks Gaming. The rest of the land, almost 61 acres, is owned by Sands BethWorks Retail LLC, and ownership is split 50/50 between the Sands and Perrucci and his partners. BethWorks Retails holdings include the outlet mall, the blast furnaces, the Steel General Office building, No. 2 Machine Shop and several parking lots. If it all shakes out as planned, the Sands will sell Wind Creek the casino, outlet mall, events center, hotel and some parking lots. Perrucci and his investment partners will sell off their stake but retain ownership of the property and execute a ground lease with Wind Creek, according to the filing. They will retain ownership of the SGO building, annex and some parking lots, Perrucci has said. The hearing will be held in the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Boards Office of Hearing and Appeals, Strawberry Square Complex, Second Floor in Harrisburg. The meetings are usually live streamed via the boards website. Sara K. Satullo may be reached at ssatullo@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @sarasatullo and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A man on parole is accused of having a handful of different drugs on him and fighting with Bethlehem police officers after he tried to hang himself. City police first dealt with Harold Darden at 12:42 a.m. April 19, after being called for a man yelling on Ontario Street on the South Side. Darden, of the 600 block of John Street in the city, was found in the middle of the intersection of Sioux and Ontario streets, yelling I am God and Im not OK." The 41-year-old Darden allegedly approached officers in a fighting stance and ignored officers commands. Police said Darden resisted being arrested and was hit with a stun gun twice as five officers were needed to handcuff him. Police said they searched Darden and found: seven plastic baggies that tested positive for synthetic marijuana, three baggies containing methamphetamine, four small bags of cocaine and two tubes containing liquid that field tested positive for PCP. Thursday morning, Darden was brought to police headquarters to be arraigned on charges connected to the April 19 incident. Police said Darden was searched and had a knuckle stun gun on him, which is a prohibited offensive weapon. At headquarters, Darden again ignored officers orders and became combative, according to police. Once in the cellblock, police said Darden tried to hang himself with a piece of clothing. When an officer tried to remove the clothing, Darden reportedly yelled, Youre going to have to kill me! Officers went to the cellblock to remove Darden for his safety and he was hit twice with a stun gun. Darden is charged with one count of possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, four counts of possession of controlled substances, two counts of resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and possession of an offensive weapon. He was sent to Northampton County Prison in lieu of $250,000 bail. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A Mexican citizen whod been living in Bethlehem was found guilty Tuesday of re-entering the United States after deportation, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania announced. Martin Castro-Molina, 42, was charged with felony re-entry after deportation, after being found unlawfully in the United States in August 2018. Hed previously been deported and removed from the U.S. in October 2008, February 2011 and January 2017. At the time of his arrest last year, Castro-Molina gave multiple fictitious names to authorities. Court records list one alias for him: Jose Noe Galsano-Castellano. Castro-Molina was living on the Lehigh County side of Bethlehem at the time of his arrest. Public records show he was being held as of Tuesday in the Lehigh County Jail. A federal jury convicted Castro-Molina of the felony charge against him. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 20 before Judge Edward G. Smith in Easton. The defendant in this case clearly has no respect for the laws of this country, U.S. Attorney William McSwain said in a statement. After being removed on three previous occasions, Castro-Molina decided yet again to snub our immigration system by entering the United States illegally. I am glad that the jury in this case agreed and held him responsible for his actions. An email seeking comment from Castro-Molina's attorney Tuesday was not immediately returned. The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meaghan Flannery and Jose Arteaga. The brave men and women of ICE contribute to making our communities safer by arresting criminal aliens like Martin Castro-Molina, stated Simona L. Flores, field office director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia. We will ensure that aliens who may pose a threat to our communities are not released onto the streets to potentially re-offend and harm individuals living within our communities. Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @KurtBresswein and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Weve known for some time that Martin Tower would be coming down on Sunday, May 19, but many questions about the massive demolition project in West Bethlehem have gone unanswered -- until now. On Tuesday, representatives from the demolition company, the propertys owners, Lehigh County and city emergency management officials unveiled new details about how theyre going to take down the 21-story, former Bethlehem Steel Corp. headquarters. They released a list of frequently asked questions ahead of public meetings on the demolition. Below are the questions and answers they provided: 1.) What is the process of demolition by explosives/implosion? The basic premise of explosives demolition is to isolate the key structural supporting elements of the structure (in this case, structural steel columns) and eliminate them sequentially with explosives charges so the weight and construction of the structure can be dynamically controlled with differential velocity to insure that the resultant debris falls in a predetermined area. 2.) What regulations are in place to secure public safety? The explosives and demolition industry have regulations in place at local, state and federal levels to ensure public safety. Adherence to the regulations is overseen by, and has been coordinated through, the project team including: ATF, FAA, Pennsylvania DEP, Bethlehem Police Department, Bethlehem Fire Department, Bethlehem Office of the Fire Marshal, Emergency Medical Services, Bethlehem Emergency Management, Lehigh County Emergency Management, Northampton County Emergency Management, Northampton County 911 Center, Bethlehem Service Center and Lehigh Valley International Airport. 3.) What has been done to prepare for the demolition and environmental remediation? All interior demolition was completed and all controlled and hazardous materials (including asbestos) were removed from the building, as required by law, prior to the final demolition permit being issued. Completion of interior demolition (i.e. walls, ceiling, carpeting, doors, etc.) prior to implosion results in less dust being created during the implosion activities. 4.) Will air quality be monitored before, during and after demolition? Yes. An independent third-party firm is conducting particulate and asbestos air quality monitoring before, during and after the implosion activities. 5.) What measures will be taken for dust control? Multiple water spray and misting devices will be utilized prior to and during the implosion activities. 6.) Are there any precautions residents should take related to dust? Should residents stay indoors during the implosion and if so, for how long? Dust is an unpreventable byproduct of all types of demolition. With a wrecking ball or high-reach excavator, the building is slowly broken up releasing dust over a lengthy period of time. With implosion, the same overall quantity of dust is released in a matter of seconds, and may linger in the general area for 4 to 6 minutes before crews begin cleanup of same from streets and sidewalks. Depending on wind speed and direction on the day of the implosion, the dust may or may not reach your properties. As a precautionary measure, we recommend that you see that all windows, doors and air intakes are closed, and cover any other openings that might allow dust to enter your apartment, house or building. We also recommend that you turn off all exhaust fans before or at the time of the implosion as these might draw air in to your building through cracks in walls and windows. If you find dust uncomfortable or irritating, or if you have any respiratory conditions that would be aggravated by dust, please stay indoors during the demolition. 7.) What is the anticipated size of the debris field? The building will incline slightly to the southeast, then fall straight down. Most of the debris from the implosion will come to rest within the footprint of the existing building, or slightly out of the footprint to southeast (toward the center of the 53 acre property). 8.) How will the restricted area by cleared and secured? Bethlehem Police Department will clear the area prior to implosion activities using various methods including foot patrols, motorcycle patrols and marked control units. Lehigh County Emergency Management will be utilizing drones with infrared capabilities to survey the restricted area. 9.) Can I fly my drone? No. A temporary flight restriction with a one-half mile radius and 2,500 foot ceiling has been granted by the FAA on May 19th from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. During the temporary flight restriction, no aircraft (including drones) will be permitted within the restricted area. 10.) What is possibility of utility service interruption (water, gas, electric)? There is no anticipated interruption of utility service. However, as a precaution, representatives from the City Water Department, UGI and PPL will be on site before, during and after the implosion activities. 11.) What is the timeframe for the implosion activities? 5 a.m.: Bethlehem Police will close Eighth Avenue from Union Boulevard to Bradford Street. 5 a.m.: Bethlehem Police will close Eaton Avenue from Elizabeth Avenue to Ralston Road. 5 a.m.: Bethlehem Police will close Route 378 North and South Exit Ramps at Eighth Avenue. 6 a.m.: the Exclusion Zone surrounding the site will be closed to the public. Details on the limits on the exclusion zone will be provided at later date. 6:30 a.m.: Bethlehem Police will begin closing Route 378 from Catasauqua Road to the Main Street Ramp. 7 a.m.: Approximately, as safety and preparations permit, Martin Tower will be demolished by implosion. 7:10 a.m.: An assessment will be made by members of the project team to determine any clean up activities prior to opening any roadways. Any unaffected roadways will be reopened after inspection by Bethlehem Police Department. It is estimated that by mid-morning all public rights of way will be open and the exclusion zone lifted. Nick Falsone may be reached at nfalsone@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @nickfalsone. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Dear Amy: I have a favorite ramen shop that is so tiny and popular that a line often forms near the door as people wait for seats. Today, while standing in the front of that line, I noticed the folks who were dining at the table next to the door surreptitiously leaning down and exhaling smoke under the table. I leaned over a bit and noticed that they were passing a vape pen between them, of the THC variety (so yes, they were smoking weed). The owners and staff were too busy to notice this, and the smokers were on the lookout for being caught. The owners are a wonderful couple. They love this business and work incredibly hard. I would hate to cause them any problems. If I'd spoken up and said, "Excuse me, I can see you smoking and that is not legal to do inside restaurants, so please take that outside," then much of the restaurant would have heard me, no matter my volume. This would likely have had the effect of shaming these folks into putting their vape pen away, but it might have also caused the owners embarrassment/problems. Should I have said something to the folks who were smoking? Is there a way I could have done this without making an uncomfortable scene? Or should I have just ignored it, and enjoyed my ramen? -- Noodling on It Dear Noodling: I must point out the obvious: Weed and ramen do seem a somewhat magical fit. (THC is -- basically -- the substance that produces the high in pot.) But I digress. My whimsical imaginings do not make this behavior right. You are overthinking this. If people in close quarters are doing things that disturb you and others, and which, regardless, they should not do inside, then go ahead and say so! You could simply say, "Excuse me, but could you please smoke outside?" Is this courteous request "shaming" behavior? Who cares?! There is no need for you to point out that their behavior is illegal -- and wrong. They are literally keeping their activity "under the table." They know everything that you know. My research shows that regulations concerning vaping are patchy and variable from state to state, but the trend seems to point toward all vaping (including THC, nicotine, or other substances) being allowed ONLY where other smoking is allowed (which means, no smoking inside any public building, business, bar or restaurant). If there is a "scene" to be had, these smokers will be the ones having it. Dear Amy: After 35 years of living in the United States, Ive decided to return to my native country. I am 71. My husband died four years ago and I do not have any children or relatives in this country. I have some cousins there and a handful of high school friends. I have spent many sleepless nights worrying about how I will adjust to life there. My biggest concerns are: lack of intellectual life, no coffee shops or places to meet new people. I have to go out to be with other people, but I would be afraid to drive there. I think finding people who have similar interests will be hard. I'm going there this summer to see how it would feel to live there for good. If I decide to stay in the U.S., as I age, I will have to rely on strangers for help at some point. Am I too emotional seeing the move in such dark colors? What should guide me in making that decision? -- Torn Dear Torn: I think youre brave to do this. Of course, youre anxious! Its easy to get overwhelmed when facing such a big decision, but you should deal with your anxiety by taking the big leap in small steps. Take a fresh look this summer. Reconnect with your friends and family. See if you can live near a town center, where the quality of life would be better for you. Rent (don't purchase) a place until you feel more confident. Ultimately, you may decide that living in a retirement community/assisted-living complex in the U.S. might be best for you. I hope you'll look into it. Dear Amy: Seldom Heard was complaining about his wife, who literally never stops talking. Thank you for your practical suggestions. I'd like to add that his wife might have hearing problems. People who have trouble hearing sometimes cover for the fact that they can't hear a question by proactively filling the silence. -- Been There Dear Been There: Many readers pointed this out. Thank you! (You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@amydickinson.com. Readers may send postal mail to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or "like" her on Facebook.) COPYRIGHT 2019 by AMY DICKINSON. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. I have enjoyed this and, believe me, I have received much more than I have given, but thats usually the case when you love your job, Marino said. I thank you all for the opportunity, and Im hopeful to continue serving you in whatever capacity you need. A Palmer Township homeowner has sued the township to block plans for a huge storm drain tied to a school construction project. The township is forcing the Easton Area School District to put in the drain through the property of Eric Adams as a condition of approval for a new Palmer Elementary School. But the township cant force the school district to negotiate with a private resident, according to a land use appeal filed by Adams attorney. Attorney Gary Asteak says the drain through 110 S. Greenwood Ave. isnt necessary and forces the school district to solve a township problem that has nothing to do with the school. He filed the land use appeal April 23. Work cant start until the matter is resolved. Children have already been moved out of Palmer Elementary to extra space in Easton Area Middle School in anticipation of the demolition of the elementary school at 3050 Green Pond Road. Engineer Josh Grice told the school board Tuesday a $1.4 million state grant is in jeopardy if construction falls too far behind. The longer the project is delayed, the more the $26.3 million price tag is likely to escalate. He said work can start on asbestos removal from the old Palmer Elementary School and then demolition can start while the litigation sorts itself out. You can see Grices comments on a YouTube video of the school board meeting. The township maintains that the school built in 1948 never adequately addressed stormwater runoff. Water from the site contributes significantly to flooding on Washington Street, Lilac Road and Hay Terrace, according to the township. Adams says the new school plan will reduce runoff by 50 percent, so theres no need for the unsightly pipe channeling water away from the neighborhood and under his yard. Palmer Township Supervisors Chairman Dave Colver said he cant comment on pending litigation. Township solicitor Charles Bruno wasnt available for comment. Township engineer Brian Dillman didnt return a call. Adams said he offered to settle with the school district for $135,000. Or, if the school district wants to pay for cleanup after the pipe is installed the offer goes down to $115,000. Its unclear whether the school district will settle before the case goes to court. School district solicitor John E. Freund III didnt immediately respond to an emailed message. At this time were going to let it take its course, said school board President George Chando. Weve had delays in the project. We hope this gets resolved in an expeditious manner. School board members Billie Weiss and Tina Rosado said last month they will not approve a six-figure settlement with Adams. Weiss suggested renovating the school rather than building a new one would remove the townships authority to impose the storm drain requirement. Asteak said Adams has a separate attorney negotiating with the school district so he could not confirm the settlement figure. But he did say the amount is infinitesimal compared to the overall school project cost. It might behoove the school district to settle rather than embark on a long legal battle, he suggested. I have been given the green light to do whatever we need to do litigate the land use issue, he said. Its a complicated issue that is not going to be resolved in one short proceeding. As a condition of the land use approval, the school district had to agree to take on the townships legal fees in the event of a lawsuit by Adams, according to papers attached to Adams land use appeal. Easton Area School Board member Brian Snyder said he cant comment on pending litigation, but added, I am totally for the new school and am not changing that position. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook. UPDATE: Woman charged with witness intimidation in capital murder trial where witness disappeared With a key witness still missing, Dekota Baptistes death penalty homicide trial was put on hold Wednesday afternoon until Thursday morning. Thressa Duarte, 26, was in a relationship with Baptiste but argued with him on Feb. 23, 2017, before Baptiste allegedly shot and killed Terrance R. Lex Ferguson, 36, as Ferguson sat in a car with Durate in an auto parts store parking lot off 25th Street in Palmer Township. She didnt appear Tuesday and Wednesday after breaking down twice when called to testify on Monday. Duarte was supposed to be the first prosecution witness in the case. Northampton County First Deputy District Attorney Terry Houck said if Duarte isnt found, the prosecution still has a case, testimony in which has been ongoing since Monday. County Judge Samuel Murray issued a bench warrant on Tuesday for Durate, who was under subpoena to appear prior to the courts action. WFMZ reported Murray on Wednesday made a warning about witness intimidation before recessing the trial until Thursday. Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter@TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A pastry chef with decades of experience who trained at the prestigious New York-based Culinary Institute of America is readying to break out on her own. And despite working for several businesses up and down both the east and west coasts, Kathryn Gaffney has found her sweet spot in Easton. I wanted to get back into Easton and make food for the people who live in this community, Gaffney said. The Modern Crumb Bakeshop will be opening its doors at the Easton Public Market with a soft opening on May 15 followed by a grand opening on May 18, complete with free samples and giveaways. Its taking up space at what was formerly Barred & Broody Bakeshop, which closed on March 31. Barred & Broody Bakeshop owner Brian Bruno closed shop to focus on his other businesses -- Scratch, also at Easton Public Market, and a bread operation at Apple Ridge Farm in Saylorsburg, said Megan McBride, Easton Market district coordinator. Gaffney plans to serve up cream cheese and apple pie danishes, hazelnut pain au chocolat, chocolate banana muffins, butterscotch bars and chocolate chip cookies. On the savory side, there will be such items as goat cheese and herb scones, ham and cheese croissants and smoked salmon with creme fraiche, cucumbers and pickled onions on brioche. Menu items will be both vegan and gluten free, she said. Breads will run the gamut from croissants and baguettes to seasonal focaccia breads, brioche rolls and braids. In the cold case, Gaffney envisions a variety of puddings, mousse cakes and tartes, she said. Gaffney also plans to cater special events, which will include custom and layered cakes for birthdays, graduations and small milestones. She has future plans to include soft serve ice cream and wants to possibly have a truck, featuring ice cream sandwiches, at the Easton Farmers Market in Centre Square. Gaffneys passion for the culinary arts began in her teenage years. A Boston, Massachusetts native, Gaffney got her start interning at the Great Bay restaurant in the pastry department. She went on to graduate with an associates degree in baking and pastry at the Culinary Institute of America. From there, she moved to Philadelphia and met up with Lee Chizmar, a sous chef at Great Bay who became the owner of Bolete, now an award-winning Salisbury Township restaurant. Chizmar hired Gaffney to work at Bolete, where she stayed for about a year before driving cross country to California. There, Gaffney spent six years at Bouchon Bakery under the guidance of famed French-style chef, Thomas Keller. She eventually worked her way up to the position of head baker and met her now husband, Mike George, who was a chef at another California restaurant. The couple in 2016 decided to leave California and move to to College Hill since several of Gaffneys family members were then living in the Lehigh Valley. She spent two years as the executive pastry chef for Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem and most recently worked in the bread and pastry department at Profeta Farms in Readington, New Jersey. Chizmar and his wife, Erin Shea, on May 18 are officially opening a New England-style clam bar called Silvershell Counter + Kitchen" at the Easton Public Market. Gaffney plans to provide all the bread for the eatery. George, Gaffneys husband, is the chef at Chizmar and Sheas other Easton Public Market business, Mister Lees Noodles, which opened in 2016. The Modern Crumb and Silvershell arent the only recent additions to the popular market, 325 Northampton St. Taylor Taco opened in February, replacing Taza Stop, the stall serving Egyptian fare, which announced this past October it would move to a larger space in Bethlehem. The market is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. By Sean P. McAleer Its been nearly two decades since Pennsylvania created a program that has improved the lives of hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvania children. Known as the Educational Improvement Tax Credit, it awards funding to children in need so they may attend the schools of their choice. Scholarships are provided by our job creators in exchange for a tax credit from the state and are available in three categories: pre-K; K-12; and educational improvement (through after-school and educational activities in public schools). Needless to say, these scholarships have opened new doors to many needy children. Government is often criticized for not doing enough to help children. The EITC program provides more than 70,000 students with educational scholarships every year in nearly all of Pennsylvanias 67 counties and 500 school districts. With such a successful track record since the program was introduced in 2001, its time to expand and help more students reach their education and professional dreams. Right now more than 63,000 eligible students are on a waiting list to receive an annual scholarship; the interest is there from the business community to help every one of them. The Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development, which oversees the program, has more than $135 million in eligible business applications that were denied tax credits this year and were placed on a waiting list. House Bill 800, sponsored by Pennsylvania Speaker of the House Mike Turzai, would go a long way to solve this problem, providing an additional $100 million annually. It would include an escalator clause, providing an additional 10 percent increase each year when at least 90 percent of the tax credits were claimed in the prior year. An escalator is important. While Pennsylvania was a trailblazer in the EITC program, other states, including Florida, incorporated such a clause and now serve twice as many students. There is plenty of room for growth in the EITC. Pennsylvania taxpayers spend $8 billion annually to fund basic education in public schools. The EITC represents less than .03 percent of that amount. This is essentially a rounding error in the states $30 billion-plus spending budget in 2018-19. All schools that accept EITC scholarship students hold all necessary accreditation requirements by the state Department of Education. The schools provide parents with academic progress reports and college placement statistics; students take standardized tests that help parents gauge their childs success relative to peers statewide and nationally. The success is evident. Private schools that accept EITC have a 95 percent graduation rate; more than 92 percent of their graduates attend a two- or four-year college. Taxpayers should support EITC programs because they save money. Nationally, they saved taxpayers as much as $3.4 billion through the 2013-14 school year, according to a study by Martin F. Lueken, director of fiscal policy and analysis at EdChoice. It stands to reason that those figures have grown significantly since then. Its clear that EITC is doing wonderful things for children all across Pennsylvania. House Bill 800 deserves support and passage by the Legislature and the Wolf administration. Sean P. McAleer is the director of education for The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference. Its official, the new Huawei P30 Pro is the first smartphone to break camera rating records in the world and heres why that is simply glorious news. In celebration of Huawei's latest flagship device (and all of its incredible specs!), the global tech leader wants to encourage Irish creatives to, once again, show off their very best skills and talents using Huawei's market-leading cameras, by Leica. Now in its fourth year, the Huawei Creatives competition aims to take the lead in championing the very best of Irish innovation, creativity and talent across the country. The overall winner of the Huawei Creatives Competition, plus the winner of each category will receive the Huawei P30 Pro, which was released in March and was officially rated by DXO as the best camera in the smartphone market. The overall winner will also win a trip to anywhere they want in the world too! Yep, the lucky duck (and their plus one) will win flights and accommodation to a destination of their choice, ensuring a dream trip testing out the brand new premium device as they go. Sofia Delgado is the Community Manager of one of Dublins biggest Instagram communities, @IGersDublin and also the judge and ambassador for this year's Street category in the Huawei Creatives. Through IGers Dublin, Sofia provides a platform for Dublins burgeoning photographers to showcase their talents to a wider audience and also hosts regular meet-ups where aspiring photographers can meet up, learn from each other and socialise. For Sofia, photography is a pivotal part of her life - I love photography because of its power to make a moment last forever. I take photos to remember, as well for hobby and to express myself. For Sofia, inspiration can hit her at any moment as she wanders the streets of Dublin and she needs a good camera on her at all times - My Huawei is a fantastic phone and I can't recommend it enough. The camera is insane. What I like the most is the Pro Mode. This allows me to change the settings of my camera as if it was a professional camera. This lets me take a photo exactly how I want. Its just fantastic! Street is just one of 20 categories you can enter into this years Huawei Creatives. Other categories include: Ireland, Travel, Dublin, Pets, Nature, People, Portrait, Food, Fashion, Music, Abstract, Macro, Night, Action, Community, Monochrome, Water, Cityscapes and Architecture! To enter the Huawei Creatives competition all you have to do is simply upload a picture to Instagram and use the hashtag #HuaweiCreatives and the hashtag of the category you are entering in the caption. But be quick, entries and voting closes May 13 at 6pm! You can find out more by heading to www.huaweicreatives.ie. A world of inspiration is out there, so upload your most glorious image and you might jet off on the adventure of a lifetime. Good luck! Entrants must be over 18 years of age. Full terms and conditions can be found here - www.huaweicreatives.ie/terms-and-conditions A business campaign to tackle an insurance 'pantomime' which is costing companies hundreds of millions is set to be brought to the doorstep of Laois TD and justice minister Charlie Flanagan. The Irish SME Association (ISME) is calling all businesses in Laois and Offaly to join them in to push for insurance reform. The group is appealing for as big and as broad a sectoral representation as possible to attend the meeting in Portlaoise. It says it wants to ensure that our Justice Minister understands the severity of this problem for businesses in the area. Speaking at the event will be Neil McDonnell, ISME CEO, Peter Boland of the Alliance for Insurance Reform and Paul McMahon a solicitor from McMahon Legal. ISME CEO Neil McDonnell spoke in advance of the meeting about the insurance crisis. "Business owners are entirely fed up with the pantomime fight between lawyers and insurers over the cost of insurance when both extract many hundreds of millions of euro annually from our sector. "Business owners seeking affordable insurance do not seek to delimit the constitutional rights of others. They simply want our Government, our courts and our lawyers to recognise that they too have constitutional rights: to property, and to earn a living. These rights are being trampled daily by a greedy, toxic compensation culture that is facilitated in the first instance by the legal profession, and in the second by opaque or non-existent data on insurance costs. "At the moment, if you own or operate a premises and you go before a court most especially where children are concerned - youve lost the case before its heard, irrespective of the merits of your case," he said. ISME want local businesses who may be affected to join us on the day and share their stories. Anyone who wants to go public with their experience should contact ISME in advance. The meeting takes place at 7.30 am on Thursday, May 16 in Kavanaghs Bar, Main Street, Portlaoise. Sign up to attend the meeting here. A Ballyroan woman who was caffling in the street by drunkenly falling over and abusing the gardai by calling them f**king eejits has been convicted and fined. Before Portlaoise District Court was Linda ODonnell, 52, of 20 The Cross of Newtown, Ballyroan, charged with being intoxicated in a public place, threatening or abusive behaviour, and obstructing a peace officer. She appeared at last weeks sitting of Portlaoise District Court on foot of a bench warrant. Garda William Whelan gave evidence that on April 3 this year, at the Maldron Hotel, Portlaoise, the gardai were dealing with an assault when the accused got involved. She was very drunk and fell to the ground, and became abusive to the gardai by calling them f**king eejits. She refused to agree to a caution from the gardai and had no previous convictions. Garda Whelan said the accused was a different lady when shes not drinking. Defence, Ms Josephine Fitzpatrick said the accused had gone to meet a friend who was visiting Portlaoise when another woman joined their company. This other woman then alleged inappropriate contact with a young male present and things escalated. When the gardai arrived she took them on as she was concerned that her friend had been assaulted. Ms Fitzpatrick said the accused had 300 in court as a good gesture. She said the accused had been arrested on a bench warrant and spent time in custody, which had provided its own lesson. Judge Marie Keane said: Seeing, I wont say ladies but human beings, caffling outside a hotel is truly appalling. Directing the 300 to go to the Garda Benevolent Fund, Judge Keane convicted and fined the accused 100 on the threatening or abusive charge, with the charge of being intoxicated taken into consideration. Births at the maternity unit in Portlaoise hospital dropped for the first time in two years, according to offical figures from the HSE. Data provided to Laois TD Sean Fleming shows that the unit at the Midands Regional Hospital Portlaoise is now the fourth smallest unit in the country. There were 1,416 births in the Laois hospital, according to the figures compiled by Dr Peter McKenna who is the Clinical Director of the National Women and Infants Programme. The figures show that deliveries fell back by 7% on 2017 when there were 1,532 births. The number of babies born at the unit is also nearly 20% down on the 1,827 children born at the hospital in 2014. This was the year when it emerged that five babies died at the hospital due to shortcomings in services. Portlaoise is just one of two maternity units in the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group. A total of 8,330 babies were born at the Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital last year, which was up 130 on the previous year. Maternity units at Sligo, Kerry and Clonmel hospitals had fewer deliveries than Portlaoise in the category of 12 hospitals, with less than 2,000 births annually. Deputy Fleming called on the Government to reject the plan that is with the Minister for Health, Simon Harris that proposes the closure of the maternity and other units in the Laois hospital. The fact that this report is still sitting on the Ministers desk for so long is undermining and damaging the reputation of the hospital. Each of these twelve maternity units have a vital role to play in terms of delivering health care and maternity services throughout the country. The maternity hospitals in all the major cities are under severe pressure and it is essential that there be a network of maternity units outside out of the cities. It makes no sense whatever to have a proposal on the Ministers desk to close one of these maternity units. We need a proper plan to support the twelve Maternity Units that are operating effectively in the regions so that all expectant mothers outside the cities have access to services, without having to travel to the major cities. A first step would be to confirm that the Maternity Unit in Portlaoise will remain open and the threat to its continued existence is now over, concluded the Fianna Fail TD. A price tag of nearly 50 million has been placed on connecting more than 12,000 premises in Laois to high-speed internet under the National Broadband Plan. Figures published by the Government also reveal that Laois represents the fifth cheapest county of the 26 counties in the Republic to cover under the controversial 3 billion contract. Government data shows that there are 12,772 premises in Laois in the so-called amber area to be covered through the multi-year project. Details show that of the 39,253 premises in Laois, 24,415 are located in a 'blue' area which includes premises covered by commercial broadband operators. A further 2,066 are located in a light blue area which represents planned rural deployment and will reduce once premises are passed. As for costs, the estimated investment required in Laois is 49 million. This does not include VAT and contingency. Once the contract is signed the first step will be to roll out nearly 100 Broadband Connection Points around Ireland by end of year one. There will be 11 in Laois. The National Broadband Plan defines high-speed broadband as delivering a minimum speed of 30Mbps download and 6Mbps upload in a 'reliable, high quality and consistent manner'. Read also: WHAT IS THE BROADBAND PLAN One Laois woman welcomed the project. Speaking to the Irish Independent Helen Gee of Gee's Jams in Ballypickas said her broadband drops and is affected by bad weather. However, she pointed to mobile wireless coverage as presenting the biggest problem. "If you travel about a mile-and-a-half up there road there is a dip, there is nothing at all, you wouldn't event get a signal for a phone call. It depends where you are. "If you are driving through there and get a phone call it just doesn't happen," she said. She said her staff experience dips all over Ireland. The plan promises that every home, farm, school and business in Ireland will have access to high-speed broadband. Ireland becomes one of the first countries in the world to ensure that those in rural areas have the same digital opportunities as those in urban areas. An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar said: "As Taoiseach, it's my job to imagine the future and think about what it's going to look like. When I do that, I think of things like homeworking. Already some multi-nationals employ a quarter of their staff from home. They require high-speed broadband and secure connections. At the moment, many people living in Rural Ireland are excluded. I have seen students in small rural and island schools being able to study subjects like physics by video-link to a larger school. This will be even more common in the future. As a doctor, I am fascinated by technological developments in healthcare. Remote medicine is emerging all over the world. Access to broadband affects many parts of Ireland, and it requires a national solution. So that we can connect with the world, with family members, with businesses, with new ideas and new ways of doing things." A parade, aimed at highlighting the current crisis within the Defence Forces, with falling personnel figures and reduced morale levels took place at the weekend. The Respect and Loyalty Parade took place on Saturday, May 4, 2019 in Cork to continue to highlight issues with retention and morale within the Force. TD for Kildare South Fiona OLoughlin who attended the parade said there have been serious issues with retention in the Defence Forces over the past couple of years, with numbers now well below 9,000. The latest figures at the end of March reveal that there are now just 8,847 personnel. Thats 653 below the current agreed strength," said Deputy O'Loughlin. "This is a very worrying situation and points to serious issues which Fine Gael is failing to address. While pay and conditions are obviously a problem, there are other contentious issues, including the fact that many Defence Forces personnel feel completely undervalued by this government. Twice last year we saw a situation where troops returning from a tour of duty had their return dates delayed. This caused major frustration and disappointment for the serving members and their families. Last September the Wives and Partners of the Defence Forces (WPDF) marched for better pay and working conditions for members in Dublin. They claimed at the time that the Defence Forces was in crisis, coping with poor pay, declining training standards and ever more people seeking to leave. SEE ALSO: Low morale in defence forces as Kildare families march in Dublin For us, one of the biggest impediments is community acceptance and community will and political will, said Dave Lyon, vice president for real estate development for Mercy Housing Lakefront, which has more than 500 units in DuPage County. Quite often even if its not affordable, just any multifamily development requires a site to achieve zoning approvals and to go through the normal process for a municipal approval of the project. Quite often if theres not political will and community will, it can get stopped at that stage. There was joy for Kildare in Croke Park when a local charity was honoured with an All-Ireland Business Award. Barretstown of Ballymore Eustace were presented with the Charity Initiative 2019 award at the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundations annual All-Ireland Business Summit and awards held recently. Barretstown Children's Charity offers free, medically endorsed camps and programmes that are designed for children and their families living with serious illness. The All-Ireland Business Foundation is responsible for overseeing the All-Ireland Business Summit and All-Ireland Business awards, ongoing All-Star accreditation, Thought Leader awards and promoting peer dialogue among members. Companies which already hold Business All-Star Accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation compete in the finals of the All-Ireland Business Awards in a range of categories. All finalists were 'live-judged' on the day by an adjudication panel chaired by Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute of Logistics. This was the fifth annual All-Ireland Business Summit and Business Awards event. The networking and collaboration element of the annual Summits led to the establishment of the All-Ireland Business Foundation, which has accredited 350 companies. The Foundation is privileged to showcase and acknowledge the diverse talent and tremendous determination and success that exists amongst Irish SMEs, said Dr Hynes. All entrants are to be congratulated on the level of professionalism of their submissions and the positive endorsement received from customers and suppliers. The submissions captured the hard work, dedication and ability of entrepreneurs to build alliances to achieve growth and demonstrated that SMEs are the small giants of the Irish economy. Vice-President of the European Parliament, Mairead McGuinness MEP, who presented the award, said the commitment to quality of the small to medium enterprise sector was critical to the Irish economy. Ireland has the fastest growing economy in Europe and one of the fastest rates of business start-ups, said McGuinness. Small to medium enterprises make up 99% of Irish businesses and their importance to the Irish economy can never be understated. I am very proud of all the businesses here today, their commitment to quality, as evidenced by gaining these coveted All-Ireland Business awards, will ensure Irish SMEs continue to grow. SEE ALSO: A wet day for County Kildare Educate Together has appointed Mary McDowell as Principal of Leixlip Educate Together National School, opening in August. Mary is a graduate of Hibernia College and Trinity College Dublin. She has an extensive background in education which includes ten years experience as principal of Staplestown NS in Donadea. Mary had previously been teaching in that school since 2006 and has also taught in Scoil Ui Riada in Kilcock. Prior to teaching she worked with The Irish Times in the Education Section collaborating with schools and colleges in the coordination of educational conferences and events. Since graduating from Trinity College Dublin in 2015 with a Masters in Education, Mary has worked as a part-time lecturer and supervisor on their M.Ed programme supervising, lecturing and facilitating workshops for primary and secondary teachers in areas of conflict management and resolution, mediation skills and cooperative learning. Mary's specialist area is Cooperative Learning in which she is a skilled and experienced practitioner. She has also written a textbook for primary school and has a keen interest in environmental and ethical issues. 'I am very excited at the prospect of leading and developing Leixlip Educate Together National School, she said. I am an ardent advocate of the Educate Together philosophy and look forward to working with the parents and community of Leixlip to help foster an equality-based child-centred learning environment where each and every child is enabled to reach their full potential. Leixlip ETNS opens as a result of an online survey run by the Department of Education and Skills that established Educate Together as the preferred patron of families in the town. The school will open in temporary accommodation at the Leixlip Amenities Centre. Places are available for Junior Infants starting school in 2019. SEE ALSO:Enterprise award for Naas students Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. Irelands largest celebration of secondary school entrepreneurs took place in Croke Park at the Student Enterprise national final on May 3. The event was coordinated by the Local Enterprise Offices. Students from St.Marys College in Naas have won an award at the Student Enterprise Programme national finals in Croke Park this week, organised by the LEOs) for secondary schools. The students won third place in the senior category and were presented with their awards on stage by the Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection Pat Breen, T.D., Oisin Geoghegan of the LEOs and Michael Nevin, Chair of the enterprise education eommittee for the LEOs. The winning students were: Anna Burke, Sophie Brown, Anna Bazin, Daire Kavanagh and Eabha Bracken OBrien, who worked under the guidance of their teachers Elaine Quinn and Francis Wallace. The five teenage entrepreneurs published a book entitled The Struggle is Real. The aim of the book is to offer advice and guidance to help teens overcome struggles in their lives. What makes the book unique is that it is created by young people for young people. The programme, funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the LEOs, had a total of 222 teenage entrepreneurs, aged between 13 and 18, from 78 different enterprises, competing at the final, with every local authority area represented. This years Student Enterprise Programme attracted over 26,000 student participants from 480 secondary schools around the country. Starting every September, the enterprise education initiative helps students gain the skills and practical knowledge of running a real-life business. READ ALSO Long serving Naas secondary school head is to retire READ ALSO Well known Naas primary school principal to retire One of the two boys who denies murdering schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel told a garda he believed that injuries the other accused said he suffered in an assault by older boys were actually inflicted by Ana, the court heard this afternoon, Tuesday, May 7. On a day of wide-ranging evidence the parents of one of the two boys said their son was "shook" and "rattled" and told them he had been beaten up on the evening the 14-year-old girl went missing. The court also heard that the same boy told a garda who was taking DNA swabs from him that Ana had put her hand across his shoulder and chest and told the garda: "This may be helpful." The accused, who are both 14, cannot be named because they are minors. They have each pleaded not guilty to murdering Anastasia at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road, Lucan on 14th May last year. Boy A is further charged with the 14-year-olds aggravated sexual assault in a manner that involved serious violence to her. He has also pleaded not guilty to that count. Detective Garda Marcus Roantree of Ronanstown Garda Station told prosecution counsel Brendan Grehan SC he met with Boy B and his mother On May 17, 2018 . The boy told him he was nervous because he was one of the last people to be seen with Ana and he knew she was now missing. He explained that he met Ana that Monday, May 14 because Ana wanted to go out with Boy A but Boy A did not want to go out with her. Boy A asked him, he said, to get Ana so he could "break the news to her". Boy B said he wasn't that friendly with Ana but agreed to do it. He called to her house at about 5pm and they walked to a spot in the local park. Boy B said Ana showed him a picture of herself wearing a white hoodie and sitting on a chair, tied up and blindfolded. She said her ex-boyfriend had taken the photo. He left her with Boy A at about 5.21pm. He was, Det Gda Roantree noted, "quite specific" about the times which the garda found "unusual". He saw Ana again a short time later and she was upset. He asked her how she was but she didn't respond so he walked away. When he looked back there was no sign of her, he said. Boy B also told Det Gda Roantree that Boy A called to his house on May 15, the day after Ana went missing. That was when, he said, he found out that Boy A had been assaulted on the Monday and he said Boy A also spoke about the alleged assault the following day in school. Boy B told Det Gda Roantree that he thought if Boy A was beaten up by two big guys he would have more marks on his face and he believed "Ana had done this to him". Boy A's mother told Mr Grehan that on May 14, 2018, the day Ana was last seen alive, her son arrived home from school at about 4.30pm. He came in, said hello, had a cup of tea, got changed, pottered around the house for ten or fifteen minutes and asked if he could go out. He told her he had no homework so she let him go. He didn't say where he was going and she couldn't remember if he said he was meeting a friend. It was about 4.45pm when he left, wearing grey tracksuit bottoms and a hoodie. He returned at about 6pm and called his mother to his bedroom. The boy's father also went and they found the boy "very, very pale and shaking. He looked rattled." They gave him sweet tea to calm him. His mother said he had a small spot of blood on his white t-shirt, a tiny bit of blood on the inside of his lip and a patch of blood on his left knee which had a cut underneath. He was limping due to an injury to his right knee. Some weeks earlier he had fallen and injured his wrist leaving him needing a brace that covered his arm from his fingers to half way up his forearm. He could use the elbow, she said, but not his hand. The injury had been aggravated and was sore. She wanted to know exactly what happened and he told her he had left Boy B just a few minutes earlier and was walking through the park when he was grabbed from behind, brought to the ground and beaten by two youths. He managed to knock one of them to the ground with a kick, leaving his attacker bloody in the face. "From what I remember he said they ran away," she told the court. He didn't recognise his attackers and said they didn't speak. Boy A's mother said her son had taken Jiu Jitsu lessons since he was about ten years old. They discussed what had happened for about 30 minutes and then decided to report the assault to gardai. Boy A's mother later travelled with her son to Garda Headquarters in Dublin's Phoenix Park to do an EvoFit or picture identify of his attackers. She also confirmed that she washed her son's clothes the following day to get the blood out and soaked his t-shirt overnight. Apart from the blood stains the clothes were "scruffy and dirty looking", she said. Scuffs across the middle of the hoodie, she said, were consistent with him having been beaten up on the ground. They were gravelly marks rather than grass stains. The following day she heard about Ana Kriegel being missing but had never heard of her before. She called to Boy B's house before lunch time and spoke to his mother. She had never heard of Ana Kriegel either. Boy A returned to school on the Wednesday and was there until just after 12 o'clock. The boy's father told Mr Grehan that he noticed his son was "shook" when he came home on the Monday evening. He was shaking, had blood on his lips, a patch of blood on the left side of his shirt and scruffy dust on his tracksuit bottoms. He was limping and his hands were dirty. The boy told his father he had been "hopped on" in the park by two older youths but he didn't mention any names. They decided to report it, the boy's father said, adding: "Not that it would make any difference to apprehend his attackers but it's a local park, we wanted to report it so it wouldn't happen again." He tried to call the local garda station but there was no answer so he decided to drive around with his son to try to locate and identify the attackers. His son pointed out a wooded area where he said he was attacked. When asked he said he had been with Boy B. He did not mention Ana Kriegel. For the rest of the evening Boy A was "very upset and rattled", his father said, and on the Tuesday he went with gardai to show them where he had been assaulted. Boy A also went to a garda station where his injuries were photographed and he provided a DNA sample. Det Gda Roantree told Mr Grehan that he took the DNA swabs from Boy A on May 16, 2018. He said he explained how DNA evidence works and Boy A told him that Ana had "put her hand across his shoulder and chest and this might be helpful." Ana was still a missing person at this time, Det Gda Roantree said. Detective Garda Mairead Crowley told Mr Grehan that she met Boy A at Garda Headquarters where he used the EvoFit system to create images of his two alleged attackers. He gave good descriptions, she said, describing them as aged 17 to 20. One was six feet one inch with a narrow face, the other five feet nine inches and had a "rugby-type" build. The stockier of the two had an earring, brown hair short on the sides with a fringe, thick brown eyebrows, flat bridge of the nose and a protruding lower lip. The other was taller, with a long skinny face and an unhealthily skinny build. He was pale, had a moustache and "looked like an inner city fella". He later described him as a "knacker type of person." Two pictures were developed of the alleged attackers and these were shown to the jury. Garda Seamus Timmins told Gerardine Small BL for the prosecution that he looked at CCTV footage in the park around the time of the alleged attack. He had the EvoFit image and description given by Boy A but saw nobody matching the description. The trial continues in front of Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury of six men and six women. There was joy for Leitrim in Croke Park when two local enterprises were honoured with coveted All-Ireland Business Awards. Manorhamilton-based Merenda, which provides excellence in real wood veneer and edge banding products, won the Manufacturing Business Award 2019 at the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundations annual All-Ireland Business Summit and awards. Drumshanbo-based Image Skillnet, who are a not for profit, enterprise-led training network formed to support the hair and beauty sector, were named winner of the Education Business category. The All-Ireland Business Foundation is responsible for overseeing the All-Ireland Business Summit and All-Ireland Business awards, ongoing All-Star accreditation, Thought Leader awards and promoting peer dialogue among members. Companies which already hold Business All-Star Accreditation from the All-Ireland Business Foundation compete in the finals of the All-Ireland Business Awards in a range of categories. All finalists were 'live-judged' on the day by an adjudication panel chaired by Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute of Logistics. This was the fifth annual All-Ireland Business Summit and Business Awards event. The networking and collaboration element of the annual Summits led to the establishment of the All-Ireland Business Foundation, which has accredited 350 companies. The Foundation is privileged to showcase and acknowledge the diverse talent and tremendous determination and success that exists amongst Irish SMEs, said Dr Hynes. All entrants are to be congratulated on the level of professionalism of their submissions and the positive endorsement received from customers and suppliers. The submissions captured the hard work, dedication and ability of entrepreneurs to build alliances to achieve growth and demonstrated that SMEs are the small giants of the Irish economy. Vice-President of the European Parliament, Mairead McGuinness MEP, who presented the award, said the commitment to quality of the small to medium enterprise sector was critical to the Irish economy. Ireland has the fastest growing economy in Europe and one of the fastest rates of business start-ups, said McGuinness. Small to medium enterprises make up 99% of Irish businesses and their importance to the Irish economy can never be understated. I am very proud of all the businesses here today, their commitment to quality, as evidenced by gaining these coveted All-Ireland Business awards, will ensure Irish SMEs continue to grow. For more information about the All-Ireland Business Foundation see businessallstars.ie SALES of electric cars in Limerick are continuing to grow, new figures have revealed, writes David Hurley. Official statistics released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) show 44 electric vehicles were registered in Limerick during the first months of the year compared to nine during the same period in 2018 an increase of more than 388%. There were 223 recorded sales of petrol electric vehicle between January and April while 16 hybrid cars were registered over the four month period. When it comes to traditional diesel and petrol-fuelled vehicles, the figures from SIMI show 243 new cars were registered in Limerick during April down from 245 during April 2018 and representing a year-on-year decrease of less than 1%. Read also: Limerick motorist tells judge he could not afford insurance According to SIMI, cars manufactured by Ford (350), Toyota (293), Hyundai (257), Volkswagen (250) and Nissan (208) continue to be the five most popular brands of vehicle in Limerick. In overall terms, a total of 2,567 new cars were registered in Limerick by the end of April compared to 2,887 during the same period last year representing a decline of 11.08%. The five most popular model of new car in the first quarter of 2019 were: Nissan Qashqai (122, + 6.09%), Ford Focus (109, -10.66%), Toyota Corolla (95, + 50.79%), Ford Kuga (93, +3.33%) and Hyundai Tuscon (91, -11%). Meanwhile, in his quarterly report, SIMIs chief economist, Jim Power says the industry is still facing challenges despite growth in the wider community. The personal sector is pressurised due to a combination of high and rising housing costs, an onerous personal tax burden, subdued wage growth over the past decade, and Brexit is an overhanging dark cloud that is creating major uncertainty and caution in the psychology of consumers and businesses across the economy, he stated. AS one of Limerick citys largest employers moves towards a significant expansion, a new link road in Mungret will also help to open up potential land developments. Phase one of the Mungret Local Infrastructure Housing Activation Fund (Mungret LIHAF) is expected to open this week, providing access to the development of 200 houses at Mungret Gate. This link road is a vital piece of infrastructure in terms of alleviating some of the heavy congestion in the area, Metropolitan Mayor and Fine Gael councillor Daniel Butler said. Mungret and the surrounding areas have seen a number of significant recent developments, including the park, primary and secondary schools and sporting facilities, added cllr Butler, who is local to the area. Locally, Regeneron are moving towards significant expansion and the Crescent Shopping Centre has applied to expand also. Regeneron, which employs 1,200 staff in Limerick, is looking to expand its site by 240,000 square feet, more than half its current 400,000 square foot complex. My hope is the link road will land at the Loughmore Roundabout on the Patrickswell road allowing traffic from the Dock Road connect on to the motorway away from the current congestion areas, he added. I am also delighted to announce that Limerick Council will be going for Part 8 planning for the next phase of the LIHAF road from the Mungret side where the primary schools are located, he added. This is vital for Mungret Community College, of which Cllr Butler is the chairperson of the schools board of management, as it will allow access to the schools site and keep the delivery of a new school building on schedule. The Part 8 planning is due to go for a six-week public consultation period from mid May onwards with the design and delivery team currently active on site for Mungret Community College headed up by locally based Healy Architects. This road will also allow access for Dooneen AC in terms of their planned new track and will see this area become a fantastic sporting and educational campus for the area, he added. Read also: Renewed calls for CCTV cameras after dumping in Limerick village Through the Mungret LIHAF, Limerick Council are under conditions relating to the funding in terms of timelines for its development and also targets in relation to the building of houses. In 2017, Limerick Twenty Thirty announced it was to develop 850 houses in Mungret, in what will be one of the largest residential projects outside of Dublin. SINN Fein TD Maurice Quinlivan has said Rebuilding Ireland is failing those in the greatest housing need. His comments come as the Department of Housing confirmed that in March, adult, child and family homelessness were all up again. There are now 10,305 people officially classified as homeless by the Department of Housing, including 3,821 children. Of course the number is actually much higher. However it is once again clear that Rebuilding Ireland, the governments housing plan, is failing those in the greatest need of housing, he said, 272 people were recorded as homeless in Limerick, while 76 families remain in emergency accommodation in the Mid-West. Mr Quinlivan says it is appalling the government has let the crisis spiral so far out of control. Voters will have an opportunity to demonstrate their anger at the failure of Eoghan Murphy and Leo Varadkars housing policy in the upcoming local elections, said Mr Quinlivan. Until the Government accepts that Rebuilding Ireland is not working, and implements a new housing policy, things are going to get worse. A LIMERICK man has described the devastating scenes following a plane crash in Russia that claimed the lives of 41 people. Darragh Melody, who is from Newmarket-on-Fergus but living in Raheen, was traveling back to Ireland from a holiday in Vietnam when he witnessed the tragedy at Moscows Sheremetyevo airport. I saw the plane on fire going down the runway. The lad I was traveling with just called out fire and we looked out the terminal window and saw the plane totally engulfed in flames, said Darragh. I think everyone was just shocked at first. We all ran over to the window to get a better look. We saw the plane skid on the runway in flames before it went out of sight and we could only see the smoke then filling the sky, he added. Darragh, along with the other passengers he was traveling with, was unaware of the serious nature of the crash until they were back in Dublin. There were initial reports of five people being injured. No one thought it was as serious as it was. But then we landed in Dublin to the news of 41 dead, my heart just sank, everyone was devastated getting off the plane, said Darragh. The Raheen resident has been left in a state of shock following the tragedy. I was shocked when I saw it. I initially thought it was a plane taking off and something went wrong but that everything would be fine. I was hoping that they would get everyone off the plane and no one would be seriously injured, said Darragh. Our plane was on the runway in Moscow waiting to take off but there was obviously a long delay. I looked out my passenger window and saw several ambulances surrounding the plane so I started to think it could possibly be a lot worse than just the five injuries that was initially reported. They must have been pulling bodies from the wreckage thats why it took so long to reopen that runway. The worst feeling was when I realized how Id witnessed a tragedy. Those two poor children who were killed is devastating to think about. I suppose Im thankful it wasnt our plane, he added. Two children are reported to be among the 41 reported dead. The jet had 73 passengers and five crew. A flight attendant was also reportedly killed in the incident. According to reports from the BBC, The aircraft, a Sukhoi Superjet-100, left the airport at 18:02 local time (15:02 GMT), bound for Murmansk. Its crew sent a distress signal when malfunctions occurred in bad weather shortly after take-off. Reports suggest the airplane made a hard landing shortly after take-off and burst into flames. Footage posted on social media showed the aircraft crash-landing and then speeding along the runway with flames erupting from its fuselage. Passengers could be seen leaping onto an emergency inflatable slide at the front of the plane and running from the blaze large black columns of smoke billowed into the sky. It is being reported that the plane may have been struck by lightning in the air, which may have knocked out communications with ground control. Two black box flight recorders were recovered from the plane in reasonable condition, and are being examined. The results will not be known for a few weeks. A submersible dubbed Jiaolong in the Mariana Trench on June 27, 2012, in the western Pacific Ocean. As if preparing for battle, some shrimplike creatures suit up in aluminum armor to survive the ravages of the deepest part of the oceans, a new study finds. Amphipods are little crustaceans found in most waters on Earth. One species, Hirondellea gigas, dwells at the bottom of the sea the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, some 35,797 feet (10,911 meters) down. In the extreme pressures of the deep sea, the calcium carbonate that makes up the shells of amphipods and many other marine animals reacts more readily with carbon dioxide to dissolve more easily in water essentially leaving their soft bodies naked and vulnerable. As such, amphipods typically are not found below about 16,400 feet (5,000 m), which made H. gigas' presence in the Challenger Deep a mystery. [Photos: The Freakiest-Looking Fish] Now, Japanese scientists find this crustacean survives the deep sea by using aluminum armor. The researchers analyzed several H. gigas they collected from the Challenger Deep at a depth of 25,751 feet (10,897 m). The crustaceans measured more than 1.2 inches (3 centimeters) from head to tail. The scientists found that the H. gigas exoskeleton contained aluminum on its surface. But how did the little creature find this metal, since it's sparse in seawater? The researchers discovered that the crustacean uses sugar-based chemicals in its guts to extract aluminum ions from the seafloor mud that it swallows as it feeds on plant debris raining down from the surface. It generates these sugar-based molecules from sugars it gathers from this plant debris. In alkaline seawater, aluminum ions form aluminum hydroxide gel, a compound that people use to protect upset stomachs from stomach acid. When it comes to H. gigas, "we think the aluminum hydroxide gel provides mostly chemical protection," study lead author Hideki Kobayashi at Toyo University in Japan told Live Science. The gel forms an impermeable barrier over the creature's exoskeleton. "As a result, the calcium carbonate in the exoskeleton is not dissolved," Kobayashi added. This amphipod is the first known organism to extract aluminum from clay to help it live in the deep sea, Kobayashi said. He suggested this newfound biological process might one day lead to an environmentally friendly way to produce aluminum. The scientists detailed their findings online April 4 in the journal PLOS ONE. Originally published on Live Science. A reproduction of an ancient Egyptian painting showing the two young daughters of Pharaoh Akhenaten. The two princesses wear beaded necklaces, bracelets and large earrings. One is bringing the face of the other toward her. Archaeologists have known that a "mystery female pharaoh" ruled ancient Egypt before the renowned King Tutankhamun ascended the throne. Though they knew the royal name of this female king Neferneferuaten Ankhkheperure her true identity has remained elusive; however, Tut's famed tomb was originally meant for her. Now, a researcher says the mystery woman might be none other than King Tut's two older sisters, according to the investigator's new, and controversial, research. It's possible that after King Tut's dad, King Akhenaten, died, his youngest surviving daughter, Neferneferuaten, began ruling Egypt at age 12, likely at first disguised as a male. During this time, Neferneferuaten's older sister Meritaten served as her great royal spouse. But Meritaten didn't keep that "great royal spouse" title for long. "It looks like after one year, Meritaten had herself crowned as pharaoh, as well," said researcher Valerie Angenot, professor of art history and specialist in visual semiotics at the University of Quebec in Montreal. "They actually ruled as two queen pharaohs, instead of this more traditional view of one pharaoh and one queen." [In Photos: The Life and Death of King Tut] However, Angenot's idea about the "two queen pharaohs" is controversial among Egyptologists, many of whom think that the mystery queen is none other than Nefertiti, the principal wife of King Akhenaten and stepmother to King Tut. Angenot presented her research, which has yet to be published in a peer-reviewed journal, at the annual meeting of the American Research Center in Egypt, held April 12-14 in Alexandria, Virginia. King Tut's complicated family King Tut (1341-1323 B.C.) has fascinated the public ever since British archaeologist Howard Carter famously uncovered Tut's tomb in 1922. But Tut's family tree is a complicated web; his father, the pharaoh Akhenaten, focused ancient Egypt's religious worship on one deity, Aten, the sun disk. The funeral mask of King Tutankhamun. (Image credit: Shutterstock) Plague hit Egypt during Akhenaten's approximately 17-year reign (1353 to 1335 B.C.). Even three of Akhenaten's daughters died during that time, possibly from the plague, Angenot said. "I believe that because of all these deaths, he kind of tried to prepare his succession," Angenot told Live Science. "He tried to prepare his four surviving children to be likely to rule at some point if the others died." So, Akhenaten married his eldest daughter, Meritaten. Then, he had the next eldest daughter, Ankhesenpaaten, marry Tut so that when Tut became king, she would be queen (it was common for Egyptian royalty to marry within the family). "Then, there was the little one, Neferneferuaten," Angenot said. "When everyone was dying, she was only 7. She couldn't be a great royal spouse, because she couldn't have babies and she could not carry on the bloodline. So, I think this is when he decided to make her a king instead of making her a queen. He had her crowned pharaoh." If this theory is true, then the "mystery female pharaoh" who ruled immediately after Akhenaten's death, when Tut was too young to take the throne, was the youngest daughter: Neferneferuaten Tasherit. Mystery queen Egyptologists have known for at least 50 years that a mystery queen ruled following Akhenaten's death. A close examination of Tut's tomb showed that it was originally made for a woman; for instance, the funerary equipment still has traces of a female name. Many Egyptologists think that this mysterious woman was Nefertiti, who would have undergone a name change in her transition to pharaoh. Others think that the female pharaoh was Meritaten, who, after all, had married her father. But Angenot said it makes more sense that this mysterious Neferneferuaten is the youngest daughter, whose birth name was just that: Neferneferuaten. [Image Gallery: Amazing Egyptian Discoveries] And it's not just a hunch. Royal names usually included birth names. "This is why I always suspected that neither Nefertiti nor Meritaten could be the king or that queen, because they don't have [Neferneferuaten] in their birth name," Angenot said. "The only candidate who had this name as a birth name was the princess Neferneferuaten," Angenot noted. "The problem was that she was the youngest surviving daughter, so everybody thought she could not have had precedence over her siblings to sit on the throne." But Angenot thought otherwise. In addition, she found evidence in Egyptian art that this mysterious female pharaoh was the princess Neferneferuaten. Angenot, an art historian, noticed that several sculptures of anonymous royal heads, which were previously thought to depict Akhenaten or Nefertiti, are actually of the young princess. Moreover, a semiotic analysis (a deep dive into signs and symbols) of Egyptian body language revealed that a certain gesture a caressing of the chin is seen in paintings of Akhenaten and Nefertiti's daughters. This gesture is also seen in an unfinished stele (a carved stone slab) of two royals. This stele also bears royal iconography describing pharaohs, suggesting that once Neferneferuaten began ruling, her elder sister Meritaten joined her. The king who ruled after Tut likely didn't approve of this co-female rule and so probably destroyed traces of the sisters' reign. "That's why we have such little information," Angenot said, "because everything was destroyed after their deaths." Neferneferuaten and Meritaten would have shared the same coronation name, Angenot noted. Plus, a "female pharaoh" was not without precedent, as Egypt had already been ruled by Hatshepsut and Sobekneferu. Another strike against Nefertiti being the mysterious female pharaoh, Angenot said, is that she wasn't part of the royal bloodline (that is, a daughter or sister, as other female pharaohs were), but simply the king's wife. What's next? Angenot described her research in a 20-minute talk at the conference, and she is now detailing it in a paper that she will submit to a scientific journal. Many Egyptologists are eagerly awaiting the paper's publication so they can get more details about this unusual theory. "She made a good case, I thought, for the visual similarity of certain statues all belonging to one princess whose name we don't know," said Stephen Harvey, an Egyptologist and director of the Ahmose and Tetisheri Project excavation in Egypt, who attended Angenot's talk at the conference. "I'm looking forward to seeing how she develops the argument, in particular, for the idea of two women ruling simultaneously, because that is unheard of in 3,000 years of Egyptian civilization." Others dismissed the idea. "[It's] completely incredible, as in not believable," said Aidan Dodson, an Egyptology professor at the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom, who also saw the talk. It's interesting that the "hand caressing the chin" gesture is associated with princesses from the 18th dynasty, but it's challenging to say that this gesture on the stele is evidence that two female pharaohs ruled Egypt, said Dodson. He is currently writing a book arguing that Nefertiti is likely the mysterious female pharaoh. [Photos: Ancient Egyptian General's Tomb Discovered in Saqqara] Moreover, the unfinished stele has space for three royal cartouches (a long oval on which royal names were inscribed). This setting would typically fit the name of a king, who had two cartouches, and a queen, who had one cartouche. Dodson said that Angenot told him that because the two princesses likely shared a coronation name, the three cartouches would have been "Neferneferuaten Ankhkheperure Meritaten." But "there is no parallel to anything like this happening in Egypt before or afterwards," Dodson said. In addition, Neferneferuaten "was part of Nefertiti's name from very early on" in her marriage to Akhenaten, Dodson said, so it wouldn't be a big leap if she started using that name as pharaoh after her husband's death. Angenot's idea will be easier to assess once the study comes out, Harvey told Live Science. "I really want to hear the details of that," he said. "I want to give it a fair hearing." Originally published on Live Science. Near ground zero of the catastrophic 1986 explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, aerial drones recently revealed radioactive hotspots that aren't on official maps. An interdisciplinary team flew special drones over Ukraine's Red Forest, one of the most radioactive spots in the world, which is located 0.3 miles (500 meters) from the Chernobyl complex, University of Bristol (UB) representatives announced in a statement. Using data from the drone observations, the UB scientists, who are part of the National Centre for Nuclear Robotics (NCNR), created the most detailed map to date of radiation in the forest. They also pinpointed previously unsuspected locations where contamination was unusually intense, according to the statement. [See Images of Chernobyl, Frozen in Time] The researchers deployed fixed-wing drones, flying 50 missions over the forest over 10 days and mapping a grid over an area measuring about 6 square miles (15 square kilometers). First, drones used a remote-sensing method called lidar light detection and ranging to create 3D maps of the terrain. Then, lightweight gamma spectrometers scanned for signatures of radioactive decay. Radiation contamination in the Red Forest was already known to be higher overall than in any other natural site on Earth. Nevertheless, the scientists found that radioactivity there was unevenly distributed. While radiation had subsided in some areas, others maintained contamination levels that were dangerously high, project leader Tom Scott, a professor at the UB School of Physics, told British television network ITV. They detected one unexpected hotspot in the ruins of a facility that performed soil separation during cleanup efforts after the accident, the BBC reported. Spent nuclear fuel in the abandoned building was emitting so much radiation that exposure for just a few hours would dose a person with as much radiation as is normally absorbed over an entire year, Scott told the BBC. And certain radioisotopes that were identified in the Red Forest have very long half lives (the time required for half of their atomic nuclei to decay), "so they're going to be around for a long time," Scott told ITV. For decades after the accident, the Chernobyl exclusion zone an area about 1,660 square miles (4,300 square km) around the nuclear complex was so toxic that nearly all of it was strictly off-limits to people (though wildlife continued to thrive there). But as the radioactivity dissipated, parts of the zone have been opened to tourists, ITV reported. The recent expedition to the Red Forest was the first in a series of surveys that NCNR will conduct in Ukraine over the next year, and the new maps it is making will help officials to prevent risks to visitors, according to the statement. Originally published on Live Science. White said, should he win the general election, he would round up some volunteers and clean up 57th and Jefferson Street, where he said some dumping has occurred. He also noted that the town has started to work on a burned out house in his ward that he's been complaining about. Travis Scott was roasted on Twitter for the military-inspired look he wore to Monday's 2019 Met Gala, themed "Camp: Notes on Fashion." Many in the Twitterverse felt Scott's outfit by Dior, including a brown suit with leather forearm sleeves and black gloves, was a big fashion miss. The city of Missouri City has reported that due to the rains that hit the area leading up to Tuesday night and the prediction of more rain in the coming days, portions of Edible Arbor Trail and Mosley Park by Oyster Creek have been closed. Rivers, creeks and bayous in the Missouri City area are elevated, particularly along the Brazos River and Oyster Creek. According to a news release, a flood warning has been extended until late Sunday, May 12, for the Brazos River at Richmond. As of 4:51 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, the Brazos River at Richmond is at 47.11 feet which is in minor flood stage. BREAKING NEWS UPDATES: Get your Houston breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox Residents are encouraged to stay away from the high waterways, to take precautions if necessary, to monitor local weather reports before travelling around the area and to sign up for emergency alerts. Residents can monitor alerts at www.MissouriCityReady.com and Twitter@MissouriCityEM. The U.S. National Weather Service is predicting "additional showers/thunderstorms that may even accompany tornadoes or strong damaging winds, hail and street flooding later this afternoon (Wednesday, May 8) and tonight." Missouri City reports that additional "strong storms are expected from Thursday and into the weekend. Damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes will also be possible during this time frame." Because of the threat of storms, Missouri City has postponed its Friday recognition of city employees as part of Public Service Recognition Week. City offices will be open for regular business hours on Friday. WEATHER FORECAST: A 'marathon' of rain is coming to Houston Meanwhile, the city's third annual Mother's Day Cake Decorating event will take place as scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 11, in the Community Center, 1522 Texas Parkway. For more information, go to http://bit.ly/2DXGZt3. City staff will be monitoring all roadway conditions. If residents have areas of concern, call 281-403-8700. Officials also stress the importance of keeping a list of informational resources for reference. Recommendations for city residents include: Police and Fire Departments: 911 or 281-403-8700. CenterPoint Energy: 713-207-2222. American Red Cross-Fort Bend County Branch: 281.342.9480, Greater Houston Branch: 713-526-8300. Ready Harris (www.readyharris.org); 713-881-3100; the Harris County Office of Emergency Management's official website. Enable Fort Bend (www.enablefortbend.com); 281-238-3514; the agency assists individuals with functional and medical needs during an emergency or disaster. MCTV: Comcast Ch. 16; AT&T U-verse Ch. 99. WQMN 1690 AM: Emergency advisory radio station. MCTX Mobile App: Download it in the Apple App store or on Google Play. rkent@hcnonline.com That includes boosting infrastructure in the citys neighborhoods and leveling the playing field for small businesses, Wenger said, adding the city has favored medium and large businesses at a cost to capital improvements in other areas because of tax increment finance districts, which capture new tax revenue for improvements in the area in which they are collected. California, one of the nation's largest agricultural states, announced plans Wednesday to ban the widely used pesticide chlorpyrifos, which is linked to neurological problems in infants and children, even though federal regulators have allowed the product to remain on the market. State health officials said their decision came amid growing evidence that the pesticide, which is used on crops such as oranges, grapes and almonds, "causes serious health effects in children and other sensitive populations at lower levels of exposure than previously understood." California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, also has proposed $5.7 million to support the transition to "safer, more sustainable alternatives," according to the California Environmental Protection Agency. The ban, which is expected to take six months to two years to enter full effect, comes as other states have begun similar steps. Last year, Hawaii became the first U.S. state to ban pesticides containing chlorpyrifos, though that will not take effect until 2022. New York state lawmakers recently approved legislation to ban the pesticide by Dec. 1, 2021. Oregon, Connecticut and New Jersey also have bills to take chlorpyrifos off the market. Environmental groups were quick to praise California's decision Wednesday, calling it a major win for public health that would help protect children and farmworkers, as well as wildlife affected by the pesticide. "Gov. Newsom has done what the Trump administration has refused to do: protect children, farmworkers and millions of others from being exposed to this neurotoxic pesticide," Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, said in a statement. "With the governor's action, California is once again showing leadership in protecting public health." The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that between 5 million and 8 million pounds of chlorpyrifos is applied nationwide. While farmers in California have scaled back their annual application from 2 million pounds in 2005 to 900,000 pounds in 2016, that still makes the state the nation's top user. Miriam Rotkin-Ellman, a senior scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council, said in a phone interview that agricultural activists and environmentalists had spent more than a dozen years working to take chlorpyrifos off the market in California. "It is groundbreaking," she said of California's move. "The states can chip away at this, and California's a big part of the puzzle. Ultimately, though, we are going to need that federal ban to ensure protection for everybody." Chlorpyrifos has been used by farmers for decades to kill pests on crops. The EPA long ago banned its spraying indoors to fight household bugs, but only in recent years did the agency seek to end its use in agriculture, after mounting scientific evidence that prenatal exposure can pose risks to fetal brain and nervous-system development. In 2015, under President Barack Obama, the EPA proposed revoking all uses of chlorpyrifos on food crops. That move came in response to a petition filed by the Natural Resources Defense Council and Pesticide Action Network North America. A federal judge had given the EPA until late March 2017 to decide whether to finalize its ban. Facing that time crunch, then-EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt decided to scrap the proposed ban, saying he wanted to provide "regulatory certainty" to farms that relied on the pesticide. He also noted that the Agriculture Department had raised concerns about the methodology EPA scientists had used in determining that chlorpyrifos posed serious health risks. Sheryl Kunickis, director of the Office of Pest Management Policy at the USDA, agreed with the decision at the time, saying it would allow "this important pest management tool (to) remain available to growers, helping to ensure an abundant and affordable food supply for this nation and the world." The chemical industry also has resisted a ban. Dow AgroSciences, which manufactures the pesticide, said in late 2016 that the Obama administration's assessment of its safety "lacks scientific rigor." The company added that it "remains confident that authorized uses of chlorpyrifos products, as directed, offer wide margins of protection for human health and safety." But last August, a federal appeals court ordered the EPA to ban chlorpyrifos, saying in a 2-1 decision that the law requires the agency to act if it finds that exposure to a pesticide used on food can cause harm. Judge Jed Rakoff, writing for the majority, said that over the past two decades, agency scientists had documented the likely adverse effects of chlorpyrifos on the mental and physical development of infants and children. But he said the EPA had "stalled" for years in banning the chemical and accused the agency of "utter failure" in responding to objections over Pruitt's decisions to allow continued use of the pesticide. "The time has come to put a stop to this patent evasion," Rakoff wrote at the time. The Department of Justice later asked the full U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit to reconsider the opinion, and a panel of 11 judges reheard oral arguments earlier this year. Last month, the court gave the EPA three months to justify the agricultural use of chlorpyrifos. EPA spokesman Michael Abboud said in a phone interview that the agency "is currently reevaluating chlorpyrifos" as part of a regular pesticide review process mandated by Congress. WASHINGTON - In the wake of a first-of-its-kind military operation that defense officials have credited with helping safeguard last year's midterm elections, the Pentagon's Cyber Command is hunting inside other countries' networks for threats and to gain insights to thwart foreign interference in the 2020 campaign, officials said. Code-named Synthetic Theology, last year's operation leveraged new authorities, granted by the president and Congress, enabling U.S. agencies to become more aggressive in foreign cyberspace in defense of the nation. Though the operation has ended, Cybercom is continuing its close relationship with the National Security Agency and working to build partnerships with other nations, other U.S. agencies and American industry, senior Cybercom officials said Tuesday in their first extensive public briefing on efforts to fight election interference and other threats. "Our goal is to have no interference in our elections," said Maj. Gen. Tim Haugh, who heads the command's cyber national mission force. "We're going to support (the Department of Homeland Security) and FBI in the missions they've been assigned. But ideally, no foreign actor is going to target our electoral process." His remarks came on the first anniversary of the command's elevation to a full combatant command on a par with Central Command or Special Operations Command. The organization is led by Gen. Paul Nakasone, who also heads the NSA, the world's largest and most powerful electronic surveillance agency. The two entities work side by side, sharing intelligence and coordinating operations, in a sophisticated facility that opened in September at Fort Meade, Maryland. Inside the joint operations center, American civilian and military personnel partner alongside representatives from other agencies and from the United States' closest allies, including Britain and Australia, charting cyberforces and targets worldwide. Aided by NSA intelligence, Cybercom's midterm operation successfully blocked Russian trolls working at the infamous Internet Research Agency from posting divisive messages on U.S. social media in an effort to sow discord among Americans as they went to the polls in November. The several-day operation to knock out the trolls' internet access so frustrated them that they complained to their system administrators about the disruption. The U.S. effort also entailed Cybercom personnel "direct messaging" Russian and Russian military hackers trolls in October to obliquely warn them not to interfere in other nations' affairs. Though Cybercom officials did not comment Tuesday on operational details, they made clear that their midterm election security efforts were part of the command's new strategy of "persistent engagement." Said Haugh: "To compete in this space against the adversaries, malicious cyberactors, we've got to be out there every day and we have to be in contact with them." That means gaining insight into U.S. adversaries - principally Russia, China, North Korea and Iran - to understand what and who they're targeting, and sharing that information with partners, he said. It means enabling non-Defense Department networks to protect themselves, whether they belong to private critical infrastructure operators or foreign allies. And it also means being prepared "to impose costs" through offensive cyberoperations if directed, he said. But defense is also critical to the strategy, officials said. Last year, Cybercom personnel operated in the networks of Ukraine, Macedonia and Montenegro, which were being targeted by Russia, to help those countries identify foreign malicious activity. That "malware" was then shared by Cybercom with U.S. industry through a malware-sharing platform called Virus Total. "We viewed that as a really good way for us at low cost to gain a deep understanding of how our adversaries are operating, but also to raise costs for them and simultaneously protect some of our allies," Haugh said, noting that "it was something we had not done before." Before Congress changed the law last year, Cybercom was not authorized to take actions inside a non-Defense Department network overseas as part of traditional defensive military activity. Haugh said Cybercom continues to work with some of the same countries it did last year. And in partnership with DHS, the command is now working to identify threats outside the United States aimed at the U.S. financial sector, and to pass them to the DHS to share with the firms. Separately, the military's battle against the Islamic State has a cybercomponent, led by Cybercom's Joint Task Force Ares, set up in 2016 to support Central Command. After a slow start, it began having some success at sabotaging ISIS videos and other online propaganda. The effort has now expanded. In September, Nakasone gave Maj. Gen. Matthew Glavy, who heads Marine Forces Cyber Command, leadership of JTF-Ares as well as the job of coordinating the cybereffort to counter violent extremism globally. ISIS' cyber capabilities are "degraded," Glavey said. But "we certainly don't underestimate the adversary. . . . They've been able to maximize the use of the cyberdomain to create their messages and disseminate them." BRUSSELS - Carles Puigdemont once tried to lead Catalonia to independence from Spain. Now his dominion is a house in the suburbs of Brussels. He fled charges of rebellion after his fall 2017 attempt to split his prosperous province from the rest of the country. And he is adapting to an odd new life where he can travel just about anywhere he wants - except the rolling hills of his native land. Puigdemont on Monday scored a rare victory against the Spanish state, winning the right to run for European Parliament on May 26 after an election board initially barred the way. The case rose all the way to Spain's Supreme Court. As long as he seeks to avoid arrest by Spanish police, it will have to be a campaign by Skype and Facetime. He will dial in to rallies in Catalonia from the pink brick building in Waterloo that he and his supporters have dubbed "the House of the Republic." Meanwhile, some of his rivals and former compatriots will be running from behind bars in Spain, where they are on trial for rebellion, disobedience and misuse of public funds. Puigdemont defends his self-imposed exile as strategic. "We decided to live here in order to continue fighting," Puigdemont said in an interview. "If all of us were in jail, the narrative, the version of the Catalan crisis could be very different." He said it was just a coincidence that his new home and headquarters is located in Waterloo, the site of Napoleon's final defeat. (He cheerfully notes that Napoleon's defeat was the Duke of Wellington's triumph.) The Waterloo house "is a part of Catalonia," Puigdemont said, looking more tired than he did when he stirred crowds in Barcelona and across his region during the ill-fated independence attempt. The walls are covered with Catalan art. The shelves are filled with books in the Catalan language. A steady stream of Catalan visitors come and go, including, last weekend, a team of bicyclists who rode all the way from Catalonia. Puigdemont even has jars of Catalan soil, gifts from the many Catalans who have tried to make the house in Waterloo an embassy for a country that has no independence. "I am living here as a free man. I feel at home in some way, because I am very comfortable living around Europe," he said. "But it is not exactly my office as in Barcelona." The old office was in the grand, 15th-century Palau de la Generalitat in the heart of Barcelona. It was from there in September 2017 that Puigdemont and his allies decided to hold an independence referendum. Catalonia, which speaks its own language and is richer and more industrialized than the rest of Spain, has long chafed under rule from Madrid, and pro-independence parties had won about half the vote in regional elections prior to the referendum. More than half of Catalans boycotted the referendum, but those who did take part overwhelmingly supported a split. The Spanish state cracked down, hard and with some police violence - and Puigdemont fled the country while others in his government were imprisoned and charged with rebellion. Puigdemont eventually wound up in Belgium, where he was given shelter by a Flemish separatist party that was sympathetic to Catalan independence and at the time controlled Belgium's Interior Ministry. Now Puigdemont gets up in time for an 8 a.m. video check-in with a team in Barcelona that still calls him "Mr. President." He gives video interviews to Catalan television outlets. He speaks, by video, to political rallies. His wife and his daughters, aged nine and 11, stayed behind, so he rings them in the morning as they drive to school, then chats with them over a video connection in the evenings to help his daughter with her math, Catalan- and Spanish-language class homework. "I wake up every day thinking it's my last day in exile," he said - a coping strategy, he said, to help him keep fighting for Catalonia. But there is a risk that Catalonia, and Spain, are moving on. The separatist leaders were always split between factions. The leaders who stayed in Spain and are now on trial have riveted Catalonia with their testimony. Oriol Junqueras, the leader of the center-left Republican Left of Catalonia, has been especially successful: In an April 28 election, his party nearly doubled its seats in parliament, while Puigdemont's center-right Together for Catalonia alliance lost a seat. The result puts Junqueras in a kingmaker position from his prison cell, as Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez works to find coalition partners for his Socialist party. Next, Junqueras, who is Puigdemont's former deputy, is poised to square off against him in the race for European Parliament. Junqueras will run from prison. Puigdemont will run from Waterloo. Exile has forced Puigdemont to find new strategies to stay in the news. He released a video last week declaring that Catalonia had created its own stamps - which turned out to be a design-it-yourself stamp available to anyone on the Belgian Post website. (Puigdemont put a Catalan separatist symbol on his.) He drew headlines after he declared that Canada had blocked his attempt to travel there to deliver a speech to Quebec separatists. But then it turned out the authorization didn't come through because he accidentally tried to get his travel permissions through a third-party, for-profit website that is designed to look official. Canadian officials say they are reconsidering his application now that it has been submitted the ordinary cost-free route. "Every day Puigdemont is in Waterloo he is less and less relevant," said Jose Ignacio Torreblanca, the head of the Madrid office of the European Council on Foreign Relations. Torreblanca said the current dynamic prevents both Puigdemont and Junqueras from backing down in their demands for Catalan independence, since the other could accuse him of betraying the cause. The end result is an impasse, even though Junqueras might now be able to win significant concessions for Catalonia, and possibly his own freedom, if he relaxes his strict demand for independence. "The rivalry between the two leaders of the movement make it quite difficult for them to sit and to reach a compromise," Torreblanca said. In Belgium, Puigdemont downplayed splits between the separatist leaders, saying the main problem was that Madrid had no clear plan for Catalonia. He said he hoped winning a European Parliament seat could help him raise the Catalan issue to the European stage. Most European Union leaders have deferred to Spanish leaders in Madrid throughout the crisis. Members of the European Parliament enjoy legal immunity as they travel around Europe, another potential benefit for Puigdemont if he wins. But to be sworn in - and to get the immunity - Spanish law says he would need to travel to Madrid, raising the prospect he could be arrested the moment he touches foot on Spanish soil. Puigdemont said that if he still faced arrest, he wouldn't return to Spain but would fight to be sworn in remotely. "My commitment is to put in the European agenda the discourse of self-determination in Europe," he said. "Support for independence is higher than ever." "There's a lot of impatience with the Palestinian issue. ... People have been funding this thing for a long time. They've gotten more aid than any group of people in history, and what we have to show for it is really not much at this point, unfortunately." - White House senior adviser Jared Kushner, remarks at Soref Symposium dinner hosted by the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, May 2 - - - President Donald Trump's son-in-law has been crafting a still-secret plan designed to settle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. These remarks - that the Palestinians "have gotten more aid than any group of people in history" - cried out for a fact check. Is this really the case? The Trump administration has been unbashfully pro-Israel in its approach to the long-running conflict, recognizing, for instance, Jerusalem as Israel's capital, a diplomatic step that previous presidents had held in reserve as part of final status talks. The administration has also cut off aid to the Palestinians, including to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian territories Refugees (UNRWA). In response, Palestinian officials have all but ended talks with the administration. So we were not surprised when a senior White House official told The Fact Checker that Kushner "was referring to development and humanitarian funding received per capita since the Oslo accords" signed in 1993. Irritatingly, the official refused to provide a number, even though a figure was supposedly calculated. But notice that Kushner framed it publicly as "more aid than any group of people in history" and then narrows it down to just development and humanitarian aid in the past quarter-century when directly queried. That's because when it comes to all aid, Israel has received more aid than the Palestinians, even on a per-capita basis, according to U.S. government data. We should warn readers that it's hard to track down exactly how much foreign aid is distributed and received. A lot depends on definitions, data collection and other factors, and it can vary from source to source - even within the U.S. government. Since we don't know the number that Kushner supposedly calculated, we will start with a figure on the website of the U.S. Agency for International Development for the West Bank and the Gaza Strip: $450.69 per capita in 2017. The World Bank has a similar figure, derived from Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) data for "official development assistance," but the World Bank offers yearly figures going back to 1993. The World Bank shows that the per-capita number for the Palestinians fluctuates from a low of $79 per capita in 1993 to a high of $764 in 2009. It averages out to $398 over nearly a quarter-century. We should note that both data sets show other countries received more per capita in aid in 2017 than the Palestinians, such as Syria ($567), Tonga ($744) and Kiribati ($663). But Kushner was clearly speaking over a period of time - as he put it, "more aid than any group of people in history." Kushner also appears to be adding in contributions to UNRWA, which provides services to 5 million people who are refugees from the 1948 conflict or their descendants. Some, if not all, UNRWA funding appears to be counted already in the OECD calculations for the West Bank and Gaza. Since the White House refused to explain his math, we have to stick with the World Bank and USAID estimates. Further complicating matters, these per-capita figures for the Palestinians may be too high because of possible double-counting. The OECD data set does not clarify whether the member states' contributions include only bilateral aid to the West Bank and Gaza, or if they also include member states' contributions to European Union institutions that are designated for aid to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. So we will stick with $398 per capita as a rough estimate for aid to the Palestinians. The only other source we found was the (admittedly dated) 2004 Palestinian territories Human Development Report, which calculated $310 per person, "considered one of the highest levels of aid in the world." Now, let's compare the Palestinians with the Israelis. We should note the OECD data is reported on a calendar year basis while U.S. foreign aid is reported on a fiscal year (Oct. 1-Sept. 30) basis. U.S. foreign aid includes economic and military assistance, while the OECD data reflects financial support to improve health, infrastructure, governance and so forth. Israel used to receive a lot of economic aid from the United States until Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cut a deal in 2007 to convert it all to military aid. Using constant 2017 dollars, the Israelis received $34.2 billion in economic aid from the United States between 1946 and 2007, according to calculations by the Congressional Research Service. (Germany also has been a major contributor to Israel's economy in the years after its founding, mostly in the form of reparations said to be worth between $32 billion and $60 billion to Israel and its citizens. But to keep it simple, we will focus on U.S. contributions.) The Palestinians, meanwhile, have received about $37.2 billion in development aid (in 2017 constant dollars) between 1994 and 2017, according to the OECD. The U.S. share of that was about $8.2 billion, according to the OECD. (The State Department, under a broader definition of aid, records U.S. assistance to the West Bank and Gaza as totaling $9.1 billion since 1988.) Some Arab donations are included but the OECD database does not reflect, for instance, Qatar's contributions to Gaza, which totaled $1.1 billion between 2012 and 2018 with the approval of the Israeli government. To be conservative, we will round up the total Palestinian aid to $40 billion. So that part of the pie is slightly larger than what Israel has received from the United States in terms of economic aid. To some extent, however, aid money is fungible. Every dollar Israel receives for its military means one more dollar it can spend on internal development. So ignoring U.S. military aid to Israel provides an incomplete picture. Israel has received nearly $95 billion in military aid and an additional $6 billion for missile defense from the United States, bringing its total aid (in constant dollars) to nearly $135 billion, according to the CRS calculations. (These figures do not include loan guarantees, which have been extended at times to help Israel absorb economic shocks. Israel currently has nearly $4 billion it can borrow.) But the State Department's foreign aid database, with a broader definition of foreign assistance, shows that U.S. aid to Israel totaled $228 billion in constant dollars between 1951 and 2017. U.S. assistance to Israel was especially significant in some years, topping $10 billion in 1974 and $13 billion in 1979. These figures were so unexpectedly high that we confirmed them with the State Department to make sure the calculations were correct. Put another way, Israel has been getting an average of $3.5 billion a year for 66 years - just from the United States - while the Palestinians have received about $1.7 billion a year from international donors. Even if the Palestinian figure is undercounted somewhat - such as some UNWRA funding not recorded in these statistics - there's little chance it can match the aid figure for Israel. If we count just from the signing of the 1993 Oslo accords, Israel still has received more than twice as much aid as the Palestinians. Even today, aid is roughly matched for Israel and the Palestinians. In 2017, U.S. aid to Israel was $429 per capita, compared with $451 per capita for the Palestinians. In his remarks, Kushner presented an unbalanced view of history. The Palestinians have certainly been the beneficiary of international largesse for many years. But to claim they have received more aid than any group in history ignores the fact that Israel has received far more, year after year, just from the United States. Three Pinocchios. A group of students, educators and artists is recommending a mural depicting scenes in the life of George Washington be removed from a San Francisco high school that bears his name because it doesn't represent the school's values. The controversy over the New Deal-era mural, which depicts the nation's first president standing over a dead Native American and also includes an image of an African-American slave, has pitted those offended by the mural against preservationists who cite its historical importance. The school district will decide whether to keep the mural. In December, the San Francisco Unified School District convened what it called a "Reflection and Action Group" to decide the fate of the "Life of Washington" mural at George Washington High School, according to school district spokeswoman Laura Dudnick. The mural at the 2,000-student public school was commissioned by the Federal Art Project - a New Deal program to fund visual arts - and painted in 1936 by Victor Arnautoff, a native of Russia and protege of muralist Diego Rivera, who later became a professor at Stanford University. Elements of Arnautoff's 13-panel mural - including an image of Washington standing over a dead Native American as he points to a map with one hand and directs frontiersmen with the other - seem an indictment of U.S. imperialism and capitalism. Arnautoff, who became a member of the Communist Party in the 1930s and was interrogated by the House Un-American Activities Committee, returned to the Soviet Union before his death in 1979. In February, after four public meetings, eight members of the 11-person Reflection and Action Group recommended the mural be "archived and removed because the mural does not represent SFUSD values," Dudnick wrote in an email. "The majority of the group expressed that the main reason to keep the mural up at the school is focused on the legacy of the artist, rather than experience of the students." Last month, San Francisco Board of Education President Stevon Cook told KQED he supported the mural's removal, but was more concerned about chronic absenteeism and teacher housing. "Paintings on the wall isn't, I don't think, what we signed up to do when we joined the board of education," he said. "Empowering students - making sure they feel represented and reflected in a positive way - that is the center of our work. If removing a painting will help us achieve that, then I'm all for that." Cook didn't respond to The Washington Post's request for comment on the mural. Joely Proudfit, chairwoman of American Indian Studies department at California State University at San Marcos, who met with the Reflection and Action Group, said any historical value the mural has doesn't justify its presence at a public high school. She said its image of a dead Native American contributed to a narrative of Natives as "dead and defeated," and that those who sought to keep the mural at the school were putting "art over humanity." "If they think these murals are more important than our future . . . then those people need to have their own conversations with themselves," she said, suggesting the work's supporters should "raise the funds, remove the walls, replace the walls." Lope Yap Jr., vice president of the Washington High School Alumni Association and a member of the study group, disagreed with the board's majority and said the mural should stay. He pointed out elements of the mural that criticized Manifest Destiny - the frontiersmen are painted a ghostly gray, for example - and compared the work to a memorial such as the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. "The most incredible thing about these great-looking murals is that he was able to create these images really as an advocate for those who are oppressed or abused," Yap said. Susan Ives, spokeswoman for the Living New Deal, a nonprofit at the University of California at Berkeley dedicated to preserving New Deal public works, shared Yap's view. She said it was a "misinterpretation" that the mural was racist and said it could be used as a teaching tool in the school's curriculum. "What people need to know is that this just isn't a San Francisco school board decision," she said. "This work belongs to everyone and we all have a stake in that." About 60 percent of George Washington High School's population is of Asian descent, 18 percent is Latino and about 10 percent is white, while 0.2 percent is American Indian or Alaska Native, according to school district data. Dudnick said the superintendent and staff would review the study group's recommendation and make its own suggestion to the San Francisco Board of Education. The issue has yet to appear on the board's agenda. Iran's decision Wednesday to halt its compliance with elements of the landmark nuclear deal immediately escalates the crisis between Tehran and Washington, but the real flash point could come early this summer when Iran threatens to take a major step toward acquiring weapons-grade material. In announcing Iran's partial break with the nuclear accord, President Hassan Rouhani set a 60-day deadline to get relief from punishing sanctions, promising to resume enriching uranium to a higher level than now allowed under the treaty if his demand goes unmet. While Iran's dispute is with the United States, which abandoned the nuclear treaty a year ago, Rouhani's pledge puts European nations squarely in the middle of the standoff by insisting they defy the U.S. embargo on Iran. Europeans may now determine what course history takes in the Middle East. European nations will be forced to choose between their desire to preserve an accord that has severely limited Iran's nuclear capabilities since it was signed in 2015 and growing U.S. pressure to impose complete economic and political isolation on Tehran. Tensions were already spiking this week with heightened U.S. military pressure on Iran, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and bomber task force to the Middle East. U.S. officials say the move came in response to intelligence showing Tehran was planning to attack American interests in the region. Then, hours after Rouhani's remarks, the Trump administration issued new sanctions targeting Iran's metal exports. The new sanctions, included in an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, apply to Iranian iron, steel, aluminum and copper. The nuclear accord that Iran signed with the United States and other great powers had lifted U.S. and international sanctions on Iran in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. Since the U.S. withdrew, fulfilling a signature promise of Trump's presidential campaign, the administration has designated nearly 1,000 Iranian individuals and entities for sanctions and is trying to drive the country's oil revenue down to "zero." But even as its economy has cratered, Iran has continued to meet its commitments made in the nuclear deal, according to inspections made by the International Atomic Energy Agency. European leaders have tried for a year to scrape together incentives for Iran that could shield it from some of the pain of the U.S. sanctions. But their flagship effort - a complicated investment entity intended to bypass some U.S. financial restrictions - has failed to deliver. Most European companies have pulled out of Iran, calculating that the cost of U.S. wrath is far greater than any profit possible from trade with Tehran. European diplomats, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss their assessments of Rouhani's announcement, offered no new concessions that might bolster Iran's economy. They said European foreign ministers would discuss a response at a previously scheduled meeting on Tuesday. European officials say Iran needs to sell between 1 million and 1.5 million barrels of oil a day to sustain its economy, and they estimate it is currently selling 700,000. They hope China and India will increase their oil purchases to get the deal back on track because European companies are unlikely to do so. But the 28 members of the European Union are themselves divided about how to navigate the breach between Washington and Tehran, diminishing the likelihood they will agree on any bold new plans. The disagreements were on display on Wednesday, as diplomats haggled with each other about an EU-wide response to the Iranian move but failed for the time being to issue even a basic written statement. In his televised speech, Rouhani insisted Iran was keen to remain fully compliant with the deal and blamed European countries for capitulating to U.S. sanctions that have strangled Iran's oil and banking sectors as well as its foreign trade. "We are ready to negotiate, within the boundaries of JCPOA," he said, referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal. "It is not us who has left the negotiation table." Rouhani stressed that Iran's new posture toward the nuclear accord is intended to spur negotiations rather than confrontation and that Tehran is growing impatient with maintaining its commitment to a deal that has provided little of its promised economic and political benefit. "We will not start breaching commitments and waging any war," he said. "But we will not give in to bullying either." Rouhani said Iran is preparing to partially break with the treaty by holding on to stockpiles of excess uranium and heavy water used in nuclear reactors. More ominously, he said that if Iran's terms are not met within 60 days, it would move to increase uranium enrichment above the 3.67 percent limit set by the treaty. Boosting enrichment to a higher level could reduce the time needed to produce weapons-grade material. The steps announced by Rouhani came after speculation that Iran would take a more provocative approach, including fully exiting the accord or moving immediately to higher uranium enrichment. "The Iranians certainly tried to find the mildest first step here, which would both pressure the Europeans and appease their domestic constituents without provoking a strong reaction from the U.S. and angering the Russians too much," Ariane Tabatabai, an associate political scientist at the Rand Corp., said in a text message. But the Trump administration acted quickly to ratchet up the pressure with new sanctions. In the past year, Iran exported $5.5 billion in products using the four targeted industrial metals, according to Iranian customs data analyzed by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. The materials also are used in Iran's ballistic missile program. In a statement, Trump said the newest sanctions target a sector that generates 10 percent of Iran's export revenue. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said. "Since our exit from the Iran deal, which is broken beyond repair, the United States has put forward 12 conditions that offer the basis of a comprehensive agreement with Iran. I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves." Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who has taken a hard-line position against the Iranian government, said the United States will be watching to see whether Iran takes steps that would reduce the "breakout time" required to amass enough material to build a nuclear weapon. Speaking at a news conference in London, Pompeo said the United States will work with Europeans "to ensure Iran has no pathway for a nuclear weapons system." Underscoring the significance of Iran's move, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif traveled to Moscow and delivered a personal letter Wednesday from Rouhani to Russian President Vladimir Putin, Tehran's closest international ally. Rouhani praised Moscow - also a signatory to the JCPOA - as a friend of Iran but said other participants in the deal have "failed to fulfill their obligations." "You know, we've been patient for a year," Zarif told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, according to a Russian translation of Zarif's remarks. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Wednesday that Putin saw "no alternative" to the Iran nuclear deal, Russian news agencies reported. Peskov said the Trump administration's "poorly conceived, reckless decisions" have led Iran to curtail its commitments. "Russian diplomats will certainly continue to discuss this issue, including with European partners, in order to achieve the long-term sustainability" of the Iran deal, Peskov said. European officials, however, warned that Iran risks further isolation and gave little indication that the 60-day deadline would spur them to further resist American policies. British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt warned of serious consequences if Iran breaks its commitments under the deal. "So we urge the Iranians to think very long and hard before breaking that deal," he said. "It is in no one's interest. It is certainly not in their interest. Because the moment they go nuclear, Iran's neighbors will as well." - - - Birnbaum reported from Brussels. The Washington Post's Kareem Fahim in Istanbul, Quentin Aries in Brussels and Anton Troianovski in Moscow contributed to this report. Illinois lawmakers stepped up Tuesday to take aim at failures in the states child-welfare agency, haunted for decades by deaths wrought of abuse and neglect that state officials too often are too poorly resourced or too poorly managed to prevent. Rep. Sara Feigenholtz stood with more than a dozen other House and Senate members of a newly formed child-welfare reform caucus with legislation to bolster checks and balances in the Department of Children and Family Services. Reeling from criticism of its handling of cases in which three children under its watch have died this year, DCFS took another hit Tuesday. Auditor General Frank Mautino issued a review of the agencys investigative practices from 2015 to 2017, finding that while abuse and neglect complaints jumped 11%; its hotline put callers into voicemail more than half the time; caseloads of investigators regularly exceeded limits set by a federal consent decree; and, in more than three of five cases reviewed, there was a lack of documentation showing that when a child stayed with a family, there were proper social services provided for the family. Feigenholtzs measure would set up an ongoing review of allegations of neglect or abuse in which DCFS investigators concluded there was insufficient evidence to sustain the claim, making sure all the boxes are checked. We want to make sure that there are other sets of eyes on these cases that are so difficult, said Feigenholtz, a Chicago Democrat. It was a key missed piece in the case of Andrew A.J. Freund of Crystal Lake, the 5-year-old whose parents are charged with murder after his body was found April 24 wrapped in plastic in a shallow grave near Woodstock in suburban Chicago. Records in A.J.s case show he confided to an emergency-room doctor in December that he was beaten by a belt, but a DCFS administrator conceded last week that the information was missed when the agency ascribed A.J.s bruising to a playful family dog and closed the complaint in January. Our mission is to take all the necessary steps to overhaul longstanding policies and procedures that have failed Illinois children and these recommendations are an important element of our path forward, DCFS Director Marc Smith said in a prepared statement on Tuesdays developments. Even before A.J.s death, Gov. J.B. Pritzker had ordered a review by the University of Chicagos Chapin Hall research center to recommend DCFS improvements. That came after the deaths of a 2-year-old Decatur girl whose mother is charged with her murder after the girl was returned to her from foster care and a 2-year-old Chicago boy whose autopsy showed bruises and rib fractures that never were reported despite numerous DCFS visits with the boy. For years, DCFS has emphasized keeping biological families intact when possible but, given the recent record, a change of focus might be in order, said Rep. Anna Moeller. Like A.J. Freund, the 47-year-old Elgin Democrat was born with opiates in her system but was taken from her biological mother and reared by her grandparents. Our main priority must be what is best for the child, even if that means removing him or her from their parents, Moeller said. We need to support and improve our foster care system and our adoption care programs. We need to provide appropriate resources so DCFS can do its job. The audit, ordered by the House in June 2017 because of similar problems, suggests that DCFS repeatedly has failed in following through on a key step to keeping troubled families intact providing the social services necessary to help those families past problems drug addiction, joblessness, or a lack of parenting skills, for example. The audit reported that investigators often did not follow DCFS rules by recording the Level of Intervention accorded to families they visit. Of the cases auditors reviewed where there was credible evidence of abuse or neglect, 43% involved inaccurate intervention levels. There was no listing for services recommended in 11% of cases and, in 26%, the listing was No Service Needed, a statistic that James McIntyre, co-founder and board president of the Illinois chapter of Foster Care Alumni of America, said is telling. What that says in normal-people talk is we left families alone, we left families stranded, McIntyre said. We let that kid know that their voice does not matter and that, although yes, abuse is wrong, we as a state said, OK, we dont need to offer services. We dont need to offer support. Feigenholtzs bill is SB193. WASHINGTON - No federal agency has lived such a bizarre state of suspended animation as has the Export-Import Bank, a long-obscure bureau that provides loan guarantees to U.S. companies doing business abroad. Rather than heralding it as a force for job creation, free-market conservatives turned Ex-Im into an ideological rallying cry that led to some of the most bitter disputes in Republican circles this decade. GOP senators called each other liars. House conservatives threatened to oust the speaker. Rank-and-file Republicans rebelled against the rebellion to save the bank. And all this came before President Donald Trump had won a single primary in his 2016 presidential campaign. Even after mainstream Republicans restored Ex-Im's charter, in late 2015, they could not overcome staunch conservative opposition to the agency of "corporate welfare," as opponents labeled it. For almost four years the agency has been effectively dormant, with just one board member out of five slots, lacking a quorum to issue new loan guarantees. That changed Wednesday, when Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., allowed confirmation votes on three board members, each of whom passed with near-unanimous Democratic support and sizeable Republican opposition. Once again, Ex-Im is back in business, able to support loans larger than $10 million for some of the largest U.S. exporters. But the fight is far from over. Just as it is finally getting a board, the Ex-Im Bank faces another fight over its very existence, as the 2015 legislation reauthorizing the agency is set to expire in the fall, setting up a debate that never seems to end and has left the bank's supporters continually puzzled. Republicans turn on one another in battle over Export-Import Bank "It's a mystery to me why Republicans have decided that this is their go-to boogeyman," said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., a prominent supporter of the bank. The GOP split over Ex-Im is a reminder that much of the party's divisions came into full display before Trump. In this instance, Trump's White House is a symptom of the agency's peril, not the cause. Koch Industries and its affiliated political networks turned Ex-Im into a cause celebre for conservatives. They targeted it as a corporate handout to Boeing, GE and Caterpillar, titans of their industries that received 97 percent of Ex-Im financing in 2013. "Ex-Im financing 'supports' jobs rather than creating them, at best, merely shifting jobs around in the economy as demonstrated by research and industry claims. The bank's lending practices also illustrate the ills of corporate welfare and cronyism," Grant Kidwell, a policy analyst for the Charles Koch Institute, wrote in 2015. Over the past 15 years, some of the most prominent Republicans joined the opposition. "A form of crony capitalism and taxpayer subsidy of companies far and wide," Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., said during debate Tuesday for the Ex-Im nominees. Toomey, who once served as president of another conservative group, the Club for Growth, has used his prominence on the Senate Banking Committee to help bottle up nominees for the board since early 2015. Support or opposition sometimes falls along the fault line of whether Boeing has much of a presence in a GOP senator's state. "It's the biggest source of corporate welfare we've ever seen," said Sen. Richard Shelby, R-Ala., whose clashes with the aerospace giant are legendary in Capitol hallways, especially since Boeing rival Airbus calls parts of Alabama home. But Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., where Boeing has thousands of employees, has fought fiercely for Ex-Im, linking arms with Murray and Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., whose state was once home to Boeing and retains tens of thousands of the company's employees. "It will make South Carolina, and other U.S. manufacturers, even more competitive with China and other nations," Graham said Wednesday, calling the Toomey-Shelby approach "unilateral surrender" to foreign competitors. Trump's White House, as is often the case, is bitterly divided over Ex-Im. Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. trade representative, and Peter Navarro, Trump's trade adviser, are strong supporters. They argue that almost every other nation has an export credit agency. China's agency had more than $360 billion of export credits in 2017 - five times as much as the Ex-Im Bank. Lightizer and Navarro argue that Ex-Im's default rate is minuscule, a tiny cost to pay for an agency that supports 1.7 million jobs. Mick Mulvaney, the acting White House chief of staff and director of the Office of Management and Budget, is firmly opposed to the bank. In Congress, he joined the House Freedom Caucus, the band of arch conservatives who drew a line in the sand and dared John Boehner, R-Ohio, then the speaker, to allow a vote on Ex-Im. Mulvaney has populated OMB with a slew of lieutenants who worked for Freedom Caucus members or other conservatives, including Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas. Can a bitter policy argument be settled by the real world? For once, yes. In the spring of 2015, as he launched his presidential bid, Cruz grasped onto the Ex-Im fight as his moment to prove he was the purest conservative in the race. McConnell had been forced into promising Murray a vote on Ex-Im to pass legislation to create fast-track authority for trade deals, leading Cruz to accuse McConnell of being a liar. "What he told the press over and over and over again, was a simple lie," Cruz said in an extraordinary June 2015 floor speech. Ultimately, the Senate approved a four-year extension for Ex-Im, leaving its fate in the hands of Boehner. GOP supporters waited and waited until Boehner announced he was resigning for other reasons, and amid a leadership vacuum they linked arms with House Democrats and got a majority of House members to sign a petition, forcing a vote. In a rebuke to GOP leaders, a clear majority of Republicans voted to keep Ex-Im in business, seemingly ending the debate. But the blockade against the board members left it even deeper in limbo, an agency functioning but without leadership or a quorum to approve big new loans. When the administration first sent up nominees, in 2017, they included Scott Garrett, R-N.J., a then-congressman who served in the Freedom Caucus and called for abolishing Ex-Im. The agency's supporters torpedoed his nomination and, almost 2 1/2 years into Trump's term, are finally getting the agency going again. Only to have the same fight all over again a few months from now. Mariam Rastanawi fled Homs, Syria, in 2012, hoping to escape a protracted civil war amid fears that remaining in her native country would amount to a death sentence. Seeking refuge in the United States, a country she saw as sympathetic to her plight, she and her husband waited years in exile without a permanent home. In March, they were shocked to learn that they were being admitted to the United States as refugees, and their spring arrival in Indianapolis was akin to winning the lottery. The country used to allow thousands of Syrians to immigrate, but the flow of Syrian refugees is at an almost complete stop. "We are so happy, thank God," Rastanawi said through a translator. "We didn't think it would be this long." Under the Trump administration, the number of refugees allowed into the United States has fallen to its lowest level since the resettlement program began in 1980. And few groups have been as affected as Syrians, who have been fleeing a brutal civil war that has left hundreds of thousands of people dead since it began in 2011. The number of Syrian refugees allowed into the United States in fiscal 2016 was 12,587. In fiscal 2018, the United States admitted 62. "Syrian refugees are the largest population of refugees seeking resettlement," said Nazanin Ash, vice president of policy and advocacy for the International Rescue Committee. "Their vulnerability is increasing while U.S. policy is reducing admissions." The drop is largely the result of the Trump administration slashing the total number of refugees allowed into the country each year to 30,000, a historic low, and because of enhanced security screenings instituted for refugees from 11 countries, including Syria, that the United States consider threats to national security. The decline has been most precipitous among refugees from Muslim-majority countries, where admissions fell by 90 percent from 2017 to 2018, according to the International Refugee Assistance Project. That includes countries where the United States has long been involved in military conflict, such as Syria, Iraq and Yemen. The group said the number of Christian refugee arrivals, including members of persecuted Christian groups, has plummeted by 42 percent during the same time period. There has been a 98 percent drop in the number of admitted Yazidis, an ancient religious minority group the United Nations considers victims of an Islamic State genocide. Many Yazidis were killed when the extremist group overran their community in northern Iraq, while others were kidnapped, raped and forced into servitude in Syria. Some Yazidis who have instead sought refuge in Canada have been harassed by their former captors from afar. Those who work with refugees said further limiting the number allowed into the United States imperils the world's most endangered populations, denying them a chance at safety in a country that has traditionally protected the persecuted. The number of displaced people worldwide remains at crisis levels: 68 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes, and more than 25 million are refugees. "The message we've been sending to the administration is: you're basically undercutting your entire religious freedom agenda because you're shutting the door on persecuted people," said Jenny Yang, vice president of advocacy and policy at World Relief, a Baltimore-based refugee resettlement organization. In remarks last year, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the dramatic cut in refugees allowed into the United States does not mean that the country is turning its back on a worldwide humanitarian crisis. He said the country is committed to protecting the vulnerable while maintaining national security. "Some will characterize the refugee ceiling as the sole barometer of America's commitment to vulnerable people around the world," he said. "This would be wrong." The State Department declined to comment on the country's approach to Syrian refugees, referring to Pompeo's remarks. It said the United States remains the largest donor to those affected by the Syrian crisis, providing $9.5 billion in humanitarian assistance. The sharp decline in refugees has led some resettlement agencies to dismantle the infrastructure that has helped place those seeking assistance within the United States and leaving struggling U.S. towns short of workers they are eager to welcome. The nine organizations that resettle refugees in the United States have all had to lay off staff or close offices, sometimes both. Yang said World Relief closed five offices in 2017 and shuttered its Akron, Ohio, office in March. Those who work with refugees said the greatest number now are coming from Congo, Myanmar, Eritrea and Ukraine. While the number of Syrians allowed to enter has risen to 218 for the first half of fiscal 2019, it represents less than 2 percent of the refugee population that sought help in the United States just a few years ago, meaning thousands of people are being shut out. In 2016, Exodus Refugee Immigration in Indianapolis resettled refugees from 13 countries, including Syria, Iraq and Sudan. Last year, Exodus placed refugees from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Congo and Eritrea, said Cole Varga, the group's executive director. The drop in refugees means the group's funding has been cut almost in half, and the group laid off or did not backfill more than a dozen positions. "One of the most striking things, I think, is just how much disruption this has caused to the network," Varga said. "The top level is all the missing refugees who are not in the U.S., but it's also about how [the president] is dismantling the infrastructure of this program." Rastanawi and her husband, Khaled Assaf, are the first Syrians that Exodus has brought to Indianapolis in two years. In 2017, the group helped 100 Syrians settle in the city. Vice President Mike Pence tried to bar Syrian refugees from resettling in Indiana while he was governor, but his move was blocked in court. The couple's daughter, Malak Assaf, arrived in Indianapolis as a refugee in May 2015 and petitioned for her parents to join her a few months later. Three more of the couple's 10 children also came to the United States as refugees. The screening process for Rastanawi and Assaf moved quickly. Each was granted two interviews - part of a lengthy process to become a refugee that also includes security and medical screenings. But after the president announced a ban on travelers from countries including Syria, everything stopped. "After we heard about the travel ban, we always wondered where our next home would be," Miriam said through a translator. They ended up in Jordan and didn't think they would ever make it to their family in the United States. "We would have been better off dying in Jordan than going back to Syria." Malak Assaf became resigned to the idea that her parents would be shut out of her adopted country: "I lost hope about my parents ever coming to the United States," she said. Rastanawi, 73, and Assaf, 76, spent 2017 moving from place to place in Jordan. They "hated ourselves," Rastanawi said, because they had no sense of security. The couple both have medical issues and could not work. There was a glimmer of hope last year, when the couple had an additional interview with U.S. authorities. Rastanawi was riding a bus to pick up diabetes medication in March when she got the phone call telling her that she and her husband were eligible to come to the United States. She immediately called her daughter. It was 4 a.m. in Indianapolis, and Malak Assaf was so excited she couldn't go back to sleep. The process moved quickly: the couple had to go to a hospital the next morning for a medical exam, pack their bags, pick up medication and get ready for a new life. The couple arrived at the Indianapolis airport on March 23. Malak Assaf waited with 13 family members, including her three children and three brothers. The moment the group saw the couple, who were using wheelchairs, the family swarmed them, showering them with hugs and kisses. Rastanawi and her husband began to cry. Rastanawi said the reunion was bittersweet. She still has children in Syria and Jordan, and a son was killed in the conflict. But she and her husband are thrilled to begin their new life and spend time with their children and grandchildren. "I'm so happy," Assaf said through a translator. "I can't even believe that I'm here." - - - Freelancer Barb Berggoetz in Indianapolis contributed to this report. President Donald Trump's advisers are pushing him to defy congressional investigations in hopes of luring Democrats into escalating a fight that they say will turn voters against the party in the 2020 elections. The advisers are counting on news coverage of the battle with Congress - including Democrats' raising the possibility of impeachment - distracting attention from candidates vying to replace Trump, and are portraying the president as a victim of partisan gamesmanship. Democrats are playing into their script. The House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday is set to vote on holding Attorney General William Barr in contempt for missing a subpoena deadline to turn over an unredacted version of Mueller's report. Trump advisers also see an upside from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's warning on Tuesday that the administration's defiance of subpoenas could lead to impeachment proceedings. "It won't turn out well for them," said Trump's campaign communications director Tim Murtaugh. "The fact that Democrats want to continue the witch hunt shows that they have no interest in legislating and only care about politics." Late Tuesday, the Justice Department told House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler that Barr would ask Trump to invoke executive privilege to prevent the unredacted report from being shared with the panel. "I hereby request that the committee hold the subpoena in abeyance and delay any vote on whether to recommend a citation of noncompliance with the subpoena, pending the presidents determination of this question," Stephen Boyd, assistant attorney general for legislative affairs, wrote to Nadler in a letter. The administration further advanced its strategy on Tuesday by telling former White House Counsel Don McGahn not to comply with a subpoena from House Democrats to turn over documents. Trump tweeted over the weekend that special counsel Robert Mueller shouldn't testify to Congress, and on Monday Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin refused a requests to turn over Trump's tax returns. At one of his recent political rallies, Trump attacked Nadler over his quest for documents related to his businesses. "These people are sick," he told a crowd in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The effort to turn Trump's potential liabilities into a 2020 election advantage carries risks. The president's refusal to turn over documents could lead voters to conclude he has something to hide and focus attention on the Mueller investigation, which painted an unflattering picture of Trump even if it didn't result in a criminal indictment. That could turn off moderate and independent voters in key swing states like Pennsylvania. Pelosi said at an event at Cornell University on Tuesday that Trump's strategy poses a dilemma for Democrats. "Trump is goading us to impeach him, that's what he's doing every single day," she said. "We can't impeach him for political reasons, but we can't not impeach him for political reasons." But she added: "The facts and the law, and that will take us to the place that we need to be." Not everyone in her party agrees. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, who is running for president, on Tuesday called for impeachment proceedings to begin and said politics shouldn't be a factor. "If any other human being in this country had done what's documented in the Mueller report, they would be arrested and put in jail," Warren said on the Senate floor Tuesday, before reading out extended excerpts of Mueller's report. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell "doesn't want us to consider the mountain of evidence against the president. That is wrong." Rep. Jamie Raskin, a member of the Judiciary Committee, said in his view the failure to comply with subpoenas is akin to the actions in the third impeachment article voted out of committee against Richard Nixon. "You can't obstruct the special counsel's work and you can't obstruct the work of Congress," the Maryland Democrat said. "The Supreme Court has said that the power of inquiry and investigation is central to the legislative function." White House advisers say cooperating with Democrats provides little advantage as many voters have already made up their mind about Trump's character. Records from Trump's business or time as president could reveal damaging information for Democrats to use against him. Trump's allies are trying to portray the president as already having cooperated with Muller's investigation, which left open the question of whether he obstructed justice but didn't find evidence that he conspired with Russia's efforts to meddle in U.S. elections election. Trump and his allies also have questioned the merits of the investigation. People close to Trump say they have learned lessons from GOP battles with President Bill Clinton in the 1990s. Following Clinton's impeachment in the House, his popularity rose and he went on to be a Democratic party stalwart while Republicans suffered major losses in Congress. Trump's approval rating jumped after Barr released a letter in March clearing Trump of obstruction of justice and coordinating with Russian election interference efforts, going from 39 percent approval to 45 percent - one of the highest levels of his presidency. Mueller said in a letter to Barr that he mischaracterized the findings and a redacted version of the full report released April 18 provided a much less favorable assessment of Trump's actions, including a dozen instances that could amount to obstruction. But Trump's approval rating has been little changed since, according to the most recent survey by Gallup on April 30. Democrats have said Barr's letter allowed Trump to set an early narrative before the more nuanced version of the report was released. Democrats said they have little choice but to continue fighting back against the White House's failure to comply with their requests, directly challenging Congress's investigative and oversight responsibilities. "That could be part of an impeachable offense" against Trump, Pelosi said. "Every day he's obstructing justice by saying this one should testify, that one shouldn't testify." House Democrats say the Trump administration has either refused to respond or slow-walked document requests at least 35 times since January. Administration officials have also refused to appear before House committees at least nine times this year, they said. The White House has made some accommodations to Democrats. After months of back-and-forth letters over Democrats' investigations into the White House security clearance process, the administration eventually allowed Carl Kline, a former official who oversaw security clearances, to be questioned behind closed doors and allowed congressional staff to review some documents. - - - With assistance from Steven T. Dennis and Chris Strohm. SAN FRANCISCO - Uber and Lyft drivers around the world held strikes and demonstrations in numerous cities Wednesday to lobby for better pay and transparency, joining a growing movement to demand better worker treatment from tech companies. The demonstrations, although minimally disruptive to riders, helped raise the profile of the drivers' efforts to secure more money and benefits and highlight a contradiction: Technology has long promised to bring more transparency, but the algorithms that decide how much drivers are paid have increased opaqueness over their income. Demonstrations and some strikes took place in cities including Chicago, London and Washington as drivers made demands that include greater job security, a livable income, more transparency in the ride-hailing companies' fare systems and a limit on the companies' commissions to guarantee that drivers receive 80% to 85% of a fare. Uber and Lyft drivers in New York shut off their apps between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. and led a procession across the Brooklyn Bridge, organizers said. In San Francisco, several dozen protesters gathered outside Uber's headquarters, starting at noon, a cheerful demonstration that at one point spilled into a busy street and blocked traffic as drivers passing by honked in support. The demonstrators, accompanied by a brass band, erupted in chants and held signs decrying their diminishing wages. They chanted, "Fair fares! Fair fares! . . . We won't drive another day!" The actions were timed to draw attention before Uber's initial public offering on Friday, expected to raise about $9 billion. Academics who study tech workforce trends, however, pointed to what appears to be a growing trend as gig economy workers who expected to benefit from an explosion in jobs created by tech giants instead feel used due to the changing nature of their roles and the increasingly complicated ways their pay is calculated - especially as executives at those companies make millions. "In some ways, it's like a first global digital picket line that's being planted," said Katie Wells, a postdoctoral research fellow at Georgetown University studying the lives of Uber drivers in the Washington region. "There's an opportunity with the connectivity of all this technology. . . (but) promises of data transparency have really been cut out for a whole swath of people." Instacart had to reverse course earlier this year on a change to the way it paid its workers after a revolt when it stopped handing over customers' entire tips, another example of what workers said was a lack of transparency. Doordash and Amazon have also faced similar criticism on gig economy workers' wages. Uber and Lyft have introduced "upfront" pricing in recent years, showing passengers the estimated cost of a trip to avoid the surprise fares that could accompany pricing that surges with demand. But unlike a traditional taxi meter system, which pays drivers a set portion of the passenger fare, drivers are instead paid according to time and mileage regardless of the ride's price, leading to consternation about the gulf between the companies' cut and theirs. Previously, the companies gave drivers a percentage of the total fare. "It's really hard to figure out how much you're actually making at the end of the day, especially after all your expenses," said Moira Muntz, a spokeswoman for the Independent Drivers' Guild, which represents 70,000 ride-hail drivers in New York. "That's a major piece of the transparency issue." Uber argued in its stock filing this month that its decision to decouple passenger fares from driver pay was one of the reasons to invest in the company. It helps avoid guaranteeing fares to drivers, something that can pad profits. However, the company also may eat losses if it needs to compensate drivers more than a rider is willing to pay. The new system has frustrated many drivers, who say their paychecks have decreased as it has become harder to capitalize on driving hours when passengers are willing to pay more. "It used to be the passenger pays 'this much' and you get 'this' percentage of it," said Steve Gregg, 51, an Uber driver and organizer with Gig Working Rising, a labor group that helped arrange the protest in front of Uber headquarters in San Francisco. "They eliminated that. What they really did is create opportunity for a much higher degree of manipulation." Gregg said his pay has dropped to about $900 a week for 60 hours of work after expenses, from $1,200 for 40 hours two years ago. He attributes that in part to the change in fare structure, as well as lower distance-based rates. Uber said Wednesday that the strikes did not have a significant impact on wait times, fares or the number of drivers logged into the app in any of the cities where the demonstrations took place. The company added that it provides "full transparency" on rider fares and driver earnings on each trip, giving drivers the option to see their distance and mileage-based calculations within the app, including trip by trip and total earnings. The system is akin to an itemized receipt, however, not a live taxi meter. Lyft said that drivers' hourly earnings have increased over the past two years, and that drivers take home more than $20 per hour on average - although the company did not provide a median wage as an example of how that figure translated across its contract workforce. A strike ahead of that company's IPO in March had a negligible effect on wait times and fares. The strikes could still have an impact on passenger fares and wait times in some cities. The strikes were expected to span from two to 12 hours, depending on the city. Elsewhere, organizers advised passengers to boycott the apps between certain hours in solidarity. Many drivers have put in long hours already this week to help make up the hours, organizers said. Meanwhile, pro-labor political leaders expressed support for the demonstrations Wednesday. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., who is seeking the Democratic presidential nomination, sent an early morning tweet highlighting the pay disparity between Uber's top five executives, including CEO Dara Khosrowshahi's $45 million in yearly compensation, and its drivers. "I stand with striking Uber and Lyft drivers today," he said. "The greed has got to end." Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Britain's Labour Party, asked passengers to avoid using Uber. "Stand with these workers on strike today, across the UK and the world, asking you not to use Uber between 7am and 4pm," he wrote on Twitter, adding the hashtag #UberShutDown. It really wasnt a dispute, he said. We found it and worked together to correct it to make sure its not happening anymore and to try to understand why it happened. It was just a human error. It was not done in any malicious way. Police on Tuesday arrested a 20-year-old man in connection with a series of rapes at San Marcos student housing complexes over the past two weeks. Tyshane Vris Thomas, a former criminal justice student at Texas State University, allegedly confessed to the rapes, as well as one burglary, and was subsequently booked into the Hays County Jail. His bail has not yet been set. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox "This is a stellar example of the outstanding and tireless work done on a daily basis by members of this department," said San Marcos Police Chief Chase Stapp. "It is also a great example of the effective relationships we have with our state and local partners." Thomas is accused in two separate attacks in San Marcos spanning eight days. Investigators believe that in both instances, Thomas sneaked into the victims' apartments through unlocked doors or windows, awaited their return home and then raped them at gunpoint. Authorities were led to Thomas after a concerned citizen called police to report a suspicious backpack containing a handgun and black clothing located in a stairwell at the Sanctuary Lofts in the 300 block of North Street. The backpack had Thomas's name written on it in permanent marker, according to police. When officers opened the backpack, they found a black hoodie, a black mask, a BB pistol fashioned to look like a real handgun and several items of women's clothing, according to police. Due to the name on the backpack, officers identified Thomas and saw he matched the description of the suspect in the aggravated sexual assaults. RELATED: Arrest made in San Marcos rape case as police seek a second suspect in separate attacks Officers contacted him at his apartment at Sanctuary Lofts, where he lived with his girlfriend, and brought him in for further questioning. During the interview, the former Texas State student confessed to the rapes, as well as one burglary. A search warrant later led to the discovery of other items believed to be tied to the attacks: duct tape, zip ties and personal lubricant. The alleged rapes occurred on April 24 and May 2 at the Cottages of San Marcos, 1415 Craddock Ave., and The Retreat, 512 Craddock Ave., respectively. In the first attack, the victim told police she found a masked intruder in her bedroom. The man threatened her with a handgun and then raped her. In the second assault, a woman and her roommate were confronted by a masked intruder upon returning home to their apartment. The rapist threatened them with a handgun, blindfolded them and then sexually assaulted both women for several hours. After he fled, one of the victims reported the attack to police. Thomas's arrest follows that of Keith Vallen Louis III, 27, who is accused in a separate alleged sexual assault on April 29 at The Edge Apartments in the 1700 block of Ranch Road 12. Police said Louis is not connected to the sexual assaults tied to Thomas. Text "NEWS" to 77453 for breaking news alerts from mySA.com Caleb Downs covers crime in San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | cdowns@mysa.com | @calebjdowns Inter-Tribal Council plans for 2020 Census, credits collaboration for ongoing progress This article appeared in the May 2019 edition of the Chickasaw Times THACKERVILLE, Okla. Tribal leaders of the Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes discussed the importance of encouraging Indian participation in the 2020 Census during the general session of its quarterly meeting April 12. The meeting was hosted by the Chickasaw Nation at its WinStar Convention Center in Thackerville. As citizens of this country, we have a responsibility to (participate in the Census), said Governor Bill Anoatubby said. Were working to educate our citizens, our employees and our communities of the importance of participating in the Census, and we look forward to the rest of the year working with these great nations. Gov. Anoatubby said it was important Native Americans were counted accurately. The results of the Census, he said, determine the allocation of congressional seats. The Census is also used to allocate funding for programs and services. Tribal representatives at the meeting credited working together for progress toward forming and maintaining relationships with federal, state and local governments. We have the capability and the power within ourselves, collectively as a group, to help each other get to a different level, Seminole Nation of Oklahoma Chief Greg Chilcoat said. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Chief Gary Batton noted the tribes collectively represented more than 750,000 Indian citizens. Every day, we get to share our ideas, our thoughts and concerns, Chief Batton said. We take it very seriously. We are stronger as tribes and as governments when were together like this, Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden said. Chickasaw Nation legislator Lisa Billy spoke to the gathering. Mrs. Billy is a former Oklahoma legislator who currently serves as Oklahoma Secretary of Native American Affairs. She spoke about Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitts commitment to fostering relationships with Indian tribes in the state. Its an honor to be here to represent Governor Kevin Stitt, who is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Mrs. Billy said. Its a new day in the state of Oklahoma. We have a cabinet secretary for Native American Affairs. The council recognized Wayne Simms, a former U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development area director who worked with the tribes, with an award for his service. (Mr. Simms) has dedicated his life to helping Native Americans across the United States, Chief Batton said. The council unanimously passed seven resolutions at the general session. The resolutions were: Marshall led No. 16 Louisiana heading to the final quarter, but the Ragin' Cajuns turned it on late, shutting down Marshall's offense and scoring the final 20 points of the game in a 36-21 win over the Herd in the 2021 New Orleans Bowl at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. You are here: Arts Chinese archeologists unearthed over 200 pieces of cultural relics from two ancient tombs in Xi'an, capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration at a meeting Monday. Items including pottery, bronze ware and jade ware were discovered during an excavation of the two tombs dating back to the Western Han Dynasty (202 B.C.-8 A.D.), from June to November last year. The findings of the site provide valuable knowledge for the study of ancient funeral customs and the structure of ancient tombs, according to archeologists at the meeting. The administration, which announced four archeological discoveries at the meeting, also noted another site in Xi'an, which include two large tombs dating back to the Sixteen Kingdoms (304-439 A.D.). Archeologists found murals and a number of cultural relics during an excavation of the two tombs between January 2018 and April this year. The administration also noted the discovery of about 5,000 bamboo and wooden slips at two other archeological sites in central China's Hubei Province. The administration will announce major archeological findings from time to time, according to Song Xinchao, deputy head of the administration. The Joe Duffy show over recent weeks lifted the lid on the common occurrence of traumatic birth stories. They were so powerful, so moving and I have been emotional listening to such hurt narratives. I believe, based on my experiences in the therapy room that the frequency of traumatic births for women is totally underestimated. The powerful stories shared by families and the opportunity created by The Joe Duffy Show has healed many wounds and opened up others. I want to reflect on two important parts about this story; how birth related trauma is under-recognised, and the role of compassion. One of the most competent woman I have met in my room is Mary (pseudonym) a funny, articulate, joyful lady whose mental health journey started after her first child was born. This traumatic birth was ignored by professionals and her life cascaded into a hellish post-natal depression requiring hospitalisation and disruption to her early attachment with her son. The worst part was the guilt and fear she carried for decades. The fear of another pregnancy. The guilt of the pain that she had caused her family.Entrapment into a mental health system that focus on mental illness and medication being the only choice. You cant medicate your way out of trauma. Emotional and psychological trauma is the result of extraordinarily stressful events that shatter your sense of security, making you feel helpless in a dangerous world. Pregnant mothers are at their most vulnerable. This is often overlooked. While its a once or twice experience for mums, for professionals it happens thousands of times. Traumatic experiences often involve a threat to life or safety, but any situation that leaves you feeling overwhelmed and isolated can result in trauma, even if it doesnt involve physical harm. The more frightened and helpless you feel, the more likely you are to be traumatised. Also read: Longford family's plea for life-saving meningitis vaccine following tragic loss of their daughter When events go out of control, eg emergency caesarean section, sick, ill or dying infants then these become overwhelming. This can lead to post natal depression, post natal anxiety or PTSD. In trauma the memory and the event if not worked on get stuck together and this can lead to cognitive, behavioural and emotional symptoms. Psychological trauma can leave you struggling with upsetting emotions, memories, and anxiety that wont go away. It can also leave you feeling numb, disconnected, and unable to trust other people. I would encourage you to seek help from your GP or those with experience of treating trauma. Where was the Kindness? There were a lot of accounts from the mothers about the lack of human kindness and compassion. Stories recounted harshness and hurtful statements by healthcare staff midwives, nurses and doctors.When people are stressed, exhausted and burnt-out, they have no capacity for kindness and compassion. I believe that staff will act in a perfunctory manner, devoid of sensitivity, warmth, and empathy when that are in this state. If we are to support staff this is the path we have to take. Health managers at times in midwifery care struggle to hear this. I would prefer to be treated by a professional who has compassion than one burnt out. When it comes to our healthcare systems, particularly in childbirth, the Joe Duffy show needs to be played to new and existing staff along with trying to understand why people acted like this. Then use this learning to help future mums during this vulnerable period. Also read: Longford family's plea for life-saving meningitis vaccine following tragic loss of their daughter I first met Eugene McGee in the Longford Arms Hotel in 2002 when he interviewed me for the role of junior reporter with the Longford Leader. It was a lovely sunny Saturday afternoon as I crossed the street, I bumped into a neighbour from home and was still laughing at some joke he made when I walked into the Arms. The hotel lobby was much darker that time and I couldnt see anything when I walked in. I stood there looking around for a minute, feeling a little lost and I could feel the nervousness crawling through me. After what seemed like an age, probably a minute, Eugene stood up in the corner under the stairs and beckoned me over. I was a bag of nerves at that stage, the cheerfulness had drained out of me and panic was rising fast in its place. I sat down and talked. And talked. And talked. And then I probably talked some more. And somehow, I was never really sure why, he still hired me. I worked under Eugene as Managing Editor for three years. As Deputy Editor, Joe Flaherty was basically running the newsroom at that stage, managing the reporters and the markings, but Eugenes presence was keenly felt. I can still feel the tension in the newsroom when Eugene was reading over the pages before they went to print. If a story wasnt up to standard, he wasted no time in telling you why and how to change it. He was blunt but never mean. We had huge respect for him. He was in complete charge, his authority was never questioned or doubted. You might go off licking your wounds after he pulled a story apart but you knew he was right. There was never any sense that less was expected from a local newspaper. Far from it, he was a leading a progressive local paper, far edgier than most of its counterparts at the time, and the highest standards were expected. Read also: Longford's Eugene McGee was a man of great integrity Yet he didnt have any romantic sense of journalism. It was a means of communicating, simple as that. I can imagine he had little time for the ego-driven ramblings of many of todays commentators. He was brutally honest, a straight talker who suffered no fools but a man with great integrity. He had an innate sense of the role of a local newspaper in the community. The paper was there to hold up a mirror to the community, to cover both good and bad aspects of it. He wasnt afraid to question or challenge those in power even though he knew hed be meeting them on the street or at a match sometime soon. He was a fiercely proud Longford man who understood country people and rural life. He knew what makes us tick because he came from the very heart of Colmcille, a quintessential country parish in North Longford. On the national airwaves, he was a wonderful advocate for rural Ireland and when he spoke on rural issues, you knew he had something important to say. He saw how Dublin-centric thinking was impacting rural Ireland long before there was ever mention of the D4 bubble. He had a wry, deadpan sense of humour and frequently used it to demolish the spoofers and wafflers that fill the seats on radio and TV panels. I got to know him much better when he left the Longford Leader. He was unfailingly generous and courteous when contacted for information or a quote. On the phone he would talk at length, chatting amicably and moving knowledgeable from one subject to the other. He was pretty appalled at the notion that news, especially local news written by local journalists, would be given away online for free and rarely missed an opportunity to let his feelings on the topic known, especially when I changed roles and moved into digital news. The last time we spoke was following the death of the Longford Leaders longtime Ballinagh correspondent Eddie Brady in January of this year. He was really saddened by the news, remarking that they just dont make people like Eddie Brady anymore. It was, he said, the end of an era. Eugene McGees death certainly marks the end of an era. In his own understated way, he left an indelible mark on Longford, not just through the Longford Leader but also in his extensive work on behalf of St Christophers in Longford town which should not be forgotten. He was absolutely devoted to his wife Marian and children Conor and Linda and it is heartbreaking to think that he has been taken from them so suddenly, leaving them with such a huge void in their lives. It is with them that our thoughts lie today as they grieve the loss of a husband and father, the roles he held with most pride. Read also: The late Eugene McGee to be laid to rest this Thursday This week will see 10 early childcare services and 386 children in Longford taking part in the annual fundraising event, National Pyjama Day, which kicks off this Friday, May 5. They will join thousands of children nationwide, sponsored by their families, by wearing their pyjamas to preschool. So far, 59,000 children and 1,133 early childcare services across the country have registered to take part. National Pyjama Day is organised by Early Childhood Ireland, the national representative body for the early years sector. Once participating children arrive at preschool on Friday, they will take part in activities such as PJ picnics, den-building, pillow fights, bear hunts, and storytelling. All funds raised will then be donated to charities that work with children with additional needs. Also read: St Christophers Longford demand meeting over 2 million underfunding crisis Teresa Heeney, CEO of Early Childhood Ireland, said: Were thrilled that so many early childcare services around the country, including 10 childcare services and 386 children in Longford, are on board for National Pyjama Day this Friday. Since National Pyjama Day began, pre-school children and their families have raised over 3 million to help support children with additional needs. The beauty of this initiative is that its all about children helping children. Each year, weve seen how much children love getting involved they get such a kick out of wearing their PJs for an entire day in pre-school, but they also love the fact that, by doing so, theyre helping other children too. Childcare services can register to take part, on or before 10th May and can download the relevant fundraising materials from the Early Childhood Ireland website: https://www. earlychildhoodireland.ie/work/ national-pyjama-day/ All funds raised through National Pyjama Day go to the Early Childhood Ireland National Pyjama Day Fund. The Fund is administered with support from the Community Foundation for Ireland. Longford is well-known for its literary talent and this May, the county is set to be a literary haven, celebrating some of its most recognisable writers, past and present, in the first ever Longford Literary Month. This month will be packed with a variety of literary events, trails, tours and workshops ensuring there will be something for absolutely everybody. The inaugural Literary Longford has been organised in conjunction with Creative Ireland and Longford County Council and author of bestseller, The Cow Book, John Connell has been announced as Longford's first ever Literary Ambassador. Events kicked off on Thursday, May 2, with Poetry Day Ireland 2019 seeing a number of readings with a selection of Longford poets take place in the Longford Library. The life and work of Longford writer Leo Casey was the topic of conversation on May 7, with local historian, author and librarian Gearoid O'Brien. But, perhaps the most integral part of Literary Longford is the fact that not one, not two, but three festivals will take place over the coming weeks - starting with the Maria Edgeworth Literary Festival this week. Longford will celebrate all things Maria Edgeworth from May 9 to 12 with a number of top class events planned for the week. On May 15 in the Longford Library, acclaimed Granard writer, Noel Monahan, will give a talk called A Poet's View of Longford's Literary Past, focusing on writer and novelist, William Carleton and his influence on Padraic Colum, John Montague, Oliver Goldsmith and Maria Edgeworth. From May 17 to 18, the second festival will take place in the form of the Padraic Colum International Gathering, which will feature a litany of events including talks and tours. For more information, Padraic Colum Gathering on Facebook. The annual Goldsmith International Literary Festival will take place in Ballymahon and surrounding areas from May 31 to June 2, bringing the inaugural Longford Literary Month to a fitting end. There will be a range of other events throughout the month, including a talk by author of Ithaca, Alan McMonagle, on getting published. A number of creative writing and story workshops will be given by the likes of John Connell, Dani Gill, Darragh Coady, Eileen Moynihan, Valerie Masters and plenty more. All workshop details can be acquired at 043 33 41124 or creativeireland@longford coco.ie. Read more: Longford Literary Month to celebrate local writers Business & Finance, Arts & Culture, Travel & Local Attractions By Meg Parisi Published: May 07 2019 Check out these six airlines you probably havent heard of yet, but you should keep in mind the next time you need to book a flight As we move further and further into the Digital Age, new technology and processes are going to continue to change the way we do everything. Air travel is no different. And while larger airlines like Delta and United Airline may struggle to pivot, smaller airlines are stepping it up. Every year, those new airlines aim to slightly change the status quo. They bring something new to the table or target an underserved market. And more competition in the air is better for travelers it drives prices down. Use it to your advantage. Know your options. Frontier Airlines Frontier Airlines has recently added five new nonstop destinations to its service for Long Islanders flying our of MacArthur Airport. Frontier began flying nonstop to Chicago, Detroit, and San Juan, Puerto Rico and adds nonstop flights from the Town of Islip-owned airport to Atlanta and Minneapolis-St. Paul. But, beginning on May 20, Frontier will also fly to Myrtle Beach, S.C. from MacArthur for as low as $137 round trip. French Bee This long haul, low-cost airline takes the idea of a budget flight and turns it on its head. French Bee offers round-trip transatlantic flights, from San Francisco to Paris, starting at just $330. But dont let the low cost fool you its modern fleet of airplanes means that even the cheapest seats are going to be extremely comfortable. All flights to urban metropolises and tropical destinations route through Paris, but if thats near where you hope to end up, its worth taking a look at this airline. Level Born from parent companies Iberia Airlines and British Airways, Level offers flights from the US to Europe starting at $149 one way. The nine planes in its fleet allow travelers to get from California to Paris; Boston to Buenos Aires; Montreal to Barcelona. Unlike some budget airlines, it still offers perks like more leg room, though for an uncharge. Air Italy Based in Milan, this one-year-old airline takes passengers domestically from Milan to Rome, Naples, Palermo, Catanie, Lamezia Terme and Cagliari, and long-range to destinations like New York, Miami, Bangkok, Dehli and Mumbai. Youll hear more about it as time goes on the company plans to transport 10 million passengers a year by 2022. Look for new flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Toronto. World Airways Based in Atlanta, Georgia, World Airways has resurfaced after a few years out of commission. But last year it announced a relaunch, with the goal of making the world a little smaller for everyone. Little is known at this point about its destinations or when the airline is supposed to be operatingl, but keep an eye out for cheap international flights from an airline headquartered on US soil. Moxy This airline isnt actually off the ground yet either, but its the one to watch for upcoming domestic flights. The much-anticipated brainchild of JetBlue founder David Neelman has high hopes to be more like Uber for air travel than your traditional flying experience. It plans to integrate technology into every aspect of the process. It will be a low-cost airline, and just bought 60 planes. You are here: Arts The State Small Theater of Vilnius, Lithuania, will present Nikolai Gogol's masterpiece, The Government Inspector, at Daning Theater in Shanghai from May 10 to 12. Witty, smart and wildly satirical, the play exposes the corruption of a Russian town with biting hilarity, said a China Daily report. Inefficient town officials mistake a well-dressed rogue for the incognito government inspector they are expecting, only to find themselves tricked by the rogue who takes advantage of their dinners and bribes. The play climaxes when the real inspector arrives just as the officials realize their mistake. It was inspired by a conversation between Gogol and Alexander Pushkin, another famous Russian writer. Pushkin mentioned an anecdote of a person being mistaken as a government inspector to Gogol, who then turned it into a play. A panel has ruled that Israel Folau breached the code of conduct by posting homophobic social-media content. In an April Instagram post, the rugby star said gay people were "sinners", destined for Hell - the latest in a long history of anti-gay remarks from Folau. His posts have been the subject of an Rugby Australia (RA) hearing since Saturday, with a panel consisting of John West QC (Chair), Kate Eastman SC and John Boultee AM deliberating whether he had breached the sport's code of conduct. On Tuesday (NZT), they announced that he had. "The panel has today provided a judgement that Israel Folau committed a high-level breach of the Professional Players' Code of Conduct with his social media posts on April 10, 2019," RA said in a statement. A penalty hasn't been decided on yet. The panel is now accepting written submissions, while it considers what sanctions will be enforced. On Sunday, Folau reportedly turned down a payout of AU$1 million (NZ$1.6 million) to end his dispute with RA. Credit to Newshub. A mobile museum of World Wars I and II will be set up in Martinsville on Friday and Saturday and open free to the public. The Virginia World War I and World War II Profiles of Honor Mobile Tour will be stationed in the parking lot of the Virginia Museum of Natural History, said Zach Ryder of the museum. The Mobile Tour will be for sharing as well as for learning: Visitors are invited to bring their own WWI- and WWII-related photographs to be scanned and included in the Virginia Profiles of Honor project. This partnership with the Library of Virginia will help preserve the documents and stories of veterans for generations, according to www.virginiawwiandwwii.org . The Mobile Tour will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Were hoping to get a large community turnout for this, Martinsville City Manager Leon Towarnicki said in an email. The units visit to Martinsville is through a joint effort by the Veterans Service Organization committee, the Virginia Museum of Natural History and the city, Towarnicki said, adding that local veterans will provide volunteer help. The Virginia World War I and World War II Commemoration Commission was created by the Virginia General Assembly during its 2016 Session by expanding the existing World War II 75th Anniversary Commission to include programs and observances marking the 100th anniversary of World War I, the website states. The commissions website includes a package of educational materials for children. The Scavenger Hunt shows various pictures (including goggles; a tank; a helmet with net over it; and a dog with a vest full of patches and medals) and asks users to identify from which war each item was. A vocabulary sheet defines 16 words, such as doughboy, panzer and USGI (nickname for an American soldier in WWI, a German tank and an acroynym for US Government Issue, respectively). Profiles of Honor Stories tell about figures including LTC. Howard L. Baught, a Tuskegee Airman who flew 135 combat missions; PFC Olivia D. Clark, who wasnt allowed to be a pilot as she had desired, but who accompanied Gen. George Patton in Europe; PFC Claude S. Rice, who was in a German prison camp; and Sgt. Stubby, a dog who was smuggled to France aboard the USS Minnesota and ended up being an invaluable help to soldiers. That site also has a blank Profile of Honor templates that people may use to write their own stories. The Mobile Tour is coming from Fort Eustis, and it next will be set up in Kilmarnock, according to the tours website. The tour will end its 3-year run on June 30, according to an email from the Commissions communications manager, Rusty Nix, forwarded by Towarnicki. Chinese technology giant Huawei will assist Baku Higher Oil School in creating an information and communications technology (ICT) academy and state-of-the-art laboratory as the company signed an agreement with the university on Tuesday. Under the agreement, Huawei will contribute to the project by supplying the university with necessary equipment and software free of charge. Speaking at the signing ceremony, rector of Baku Higher Oil School Elmar Gasimov commended Huawei for the assistance. He said cooperation with the Chinese company plays an indispensable role in crafting skills of the university's students to cultivate them as highly-qualified specialists. Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Azerbaijan Wang Chungang said such a firm collaboration will strengthen relations between the two countries. CEO of Huawei Technologies Azerbaijan Lu Canlin said the company is excited to contribute to the project. He expressed Huawei's readiness to assist Azerbaijani students majoring in automation in their aspiration to advance knowledge. Huawei and Baku Higher Oil School signed a memorandum of understanding early this year, giving the university's students the opportunity to take internships at the company and fostering knowledge sharing between Huawei specialists and students. On 3-4 May 2019, the Thirteenth Congress of the Revolutionary Workers' Party was held in Russia. Dozens of congress delegates voted to unify with the Russian section of the International Marxist Tendency, and the unified organisation voted to join the IMT! Read the original report in Russian | The congress was attended by representatives of regional organisations in Moscow, Primorye, Bashkortostan, Saratov, Nizhny Novgorod, St. Petersburg, Krasnodar Territory, Krasnoyarsk Territory, the Republic of Belarus, Chuvashia, the Komi Republic and others. In addition, representatives of the Russian section of the International Marxist Tendency took direct part in the work of the congress. A number of representatives of different left-wing political organisations were also present, including the Red Front, the Left Front and the United Communist Party. At the congress, the updated perspectives and programme of the party were approved, as well as a resolution on the current situation in Russia and worldwide. Its leading bodies were also elected. The comrades decision to unite will strengthen the Bolshevik-Leninist communist movement in the post-Soviet countries, and is a marked step forward for the forces of Trotskyism worldwide. Long live workers' democracy and international socialism! Boston police are asking for the publics help as they investigate a death that occurred in the citys Dorchester neighborhood Wednesday morning. Authorities said officers responded to a radio call for a person shot in the area of Milton Avenue around 10:05 a.m. Upon arrival, they found the victim suffering from life-threatening injuries. A police spokesperson said it is still unclear how the victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene, was injured. The situation remains under investigation and the department is asking anyone with information to contact Boston Police Homicide Detectives at 617-343-4470. Community members wishing to assist this investigation anonymously can do so by calling the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 800-494-TIPS or by texting the word TIP to CRIME (27463). A Massachusetts man was sentenced to 17 years in prison on federal sex trafficking charges after he and a Connecticut woman forced women addicted to heroin into prostitution. Duhamel Cassagnol, 31, of Milton will serve 17 years and three months in prison on charges of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion; engaging in a conspiracy to commit sex trafficking; and transporting three individuals for prostitution, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. Cassagnol will be on supervised release for five years after he gets out of prison. He was also ordered to pay $13,249 in restitution to four victims. In December 2017, Cassagnol was arrested along with Geneiva Whaley, 24, of Connecticut. Whaley was sentenced to one year in prison with five years of supervised release after she was sentenced last year to a transportation of an individual for prostitution charge. Authorities said between July 2014 and February 2016, Cassagnol worked with Whaley to prostitute at least four victims. The pair used Backpage.com and posted advertisements online to prostitute the women, authorities said. The victims were kept in hotel rooms in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York and Florida. Using online advertisements, Cassagnol and Whaley attracted sex-for-a-fee clients whom they directed to the hotel rooms that housed their victims, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Those victims generally had little or no control over what acts they were required to engage in or what fee would be charged for those acts. The victims were forced to give all money to Cassagnol and Whaley. The women were dependent on the pair for food and shelter. All of the victims in the case were addicted to drugs, mainly heroin, authorities said. One woman was forced into prostitution after she got out of a detox facility, records said. "Specifically, Whaley allegedly recruited the victim, who had just been released from a detox facility, and worked with Cassagnol to keep the victim in various motels or hotels in Connecticut, which were rented in Whaley's name," investigators said. "While at the motels, Whaley assisted in prostituting the victim. Cassagnol and Whaley also allegedly supplied the victim with drugs while she stayed at the motels." All of the women were provided drugs but were only given the drugs if they made money through prostitution. The women, according to investigators, were threatened by Cassagnol. He would beat some of the victims and force them to use drugs. Cassagnol was sentenced Tuesday. The Massachusetts College of Art and Design plans to open a free, new contemporary art museum in Boston in early 2020. The new museum, which will be called the MassArt Art Museum, or MAAM, is part of a renovation project to fully transform the existing Bakalar and Paine Galleries at MassArt on Huntington Street in Boston. The new museums brand will be welcoming, vibrant, fun, and a bit unexpected," according to the college. MassArt said the project is funded by the colleges UNBOUND capital campaign, which raised $12.5 million for the museum. In a statement announcing the museum on Wednesday, MassArt President David Nelson thanked the donors who supported the mission to create a free contemporary art museum. The MassArt Art Museum offers us an opportunity to introduce contemporary art to some members of our community for the first time," Nelson said in a statement. "In this space we will be able to inspire the next generation of MassArt students and art enthusiasts, and encourage longtime art lovers to consider new artistic perspectives and practices. The 15,000 square feet of existing gallery space, originally built for the 1906 campus, will be redesigned to allow the curatorial team greater flexibility to program a wide range of contemporary art, from immersive, large-scale site-specific installations to delicate works on paper, according to MassArt. The museum will also include a new outdoor space known as the Arne and Milly Glimcher Plaza, as well as educational studio space, a preparatory workshop and curatorial offices. The redesign, led by designLAB Architects and Dimeo Construction, will introduce new climate and control systems to allow year-round programming, enhanced visitor amenities and an elevator and improved public front entrance, according to MassArt. MassArt said the museum hopes to be a vital resource to the Boston art community, offering arts education and free educational programming to Boston-area public schools and community groups. We have reimagined the museum-going experience to create an inviting and welcoming place for all our visitors, offering a richer engagement with exhibitions and programming. Our artists will also feel supported to realize their vision, and our students will be invited into the process to learn from the professional artists they aspire to be, Lisa Tung, the new museums executive director, said in a statement. Construction on MAAM began in June 2017, and the final phase of interior renovations began last summer. The museum is expected to open in February 2020. BOSTON - Brad Marchand was back to being talkative with the media after Wednesday practice discussing everything asked of him except about his much-publicized recalcitrance after Game. 6 When asked about his short answers Monday night, he smiled and channeled his inner Bill Belichick. Were on to Round 3, he said three times to varying versions of questions about it before the press conference was on to other topics, including what would make this team a success. Its very exciting to be where were at. We cant get lost. Were only halfway to where we want to be. Weve done what we wanted to accomplish to this point, but were not satisfied, Marchand said. We want to go the distance. You can lose in the third round of not make the playoffs and youre in the same position. At the end of the day the only thing that matters is if you won a Cup, he added. If not youre all losers. Thats what were aiming for. Weve accomplished what everyone else has to this point. The Bruins will face Carolina, Thursday at 8 p.m. in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. HOLYOKE Mayor Alex Morse is among the celebrities set to walk the red carpet Friday, May 10, from 6 to 10 p.m., at Gary Rome Hyundai to raise funds for Providence Ministries. Last years Fashion with Compassion organized by the dealership at 150 Whiting Farms Road raised more than $30,000 for the non-profit started in 1980 to address hunger and homelessness by Sister of Providence Margaret McCleary who was recently honored with a community party on her 80th birthday. The ministry includes Holyokes first soup kitchen as well as three living residences for men who are homeless or in recovery. Other runway participants invited to model their support for such effort and make it fashionable to be compassionate include State Rep. Aaron Vega, D-Holyoke, Holyoke Community College President Christina Royal and the husband-wife team of Springfield City Council President Justin Hurst and Springfield School Committee member Denise Hurst. Ashley Kohl, one of the original co-hosts of Mass Appeal, will emcee again for the evening whose highlights include tapas by Log Cabin, desserts by Kates Kitchens foodWorks and Springfields Hot Oven Cookies and fashion hosted by a variety of retailers. Participants will share their reasons for support as well and there will also be a live auction, raffle, DJ and dancing. Cost for admission is $40 and tickets can be purchased online. Providence Ministries also includes a community thrift store as well as Margarets Pantry, an emergency food pantry distributing nearly 850,000 pounds of food annually, and foodWorks@Kates Kitchen, a 12- week job skills and culinary training program. Kates Kitchen operates every day as a soup kitchen in serving a noon meal to anyone with no questions asked. Bird, an emerging transportation company known for its fleets of dockless electric scooters, is now selling vehicles for purchase. The California company announced on Wednesday that it is selling a limited quantity of Bird One e-scooters at $1,299 a piece. Customers can pre-order the aluminum scooters online in three colors -- jet black, dove white and electric rose -- and expect to receive the device sometime this summer, the company said. Bird scooters first arrived in Massachusetts in 2018, when it abruptly planted its electric devices around Greater Boston without notice. Officials ordered the company to remove the e-scooters, sparking a discussion around how to regulate and enforce safety around the emerging micro-mobility industry that includes e-scooters, e-bikes and any other new forms of transportation. An e-scooter pilot began on April 1 in Brookline, which includes e-scooters from Bird and competitor Lime. The program marked the first formal introduction of e-scooters in Massachusetts and Greater Boston. As local officials continue to wrestle with regulations, Bird is wasting no time promoting its transportation technology, which it frames as an energy-efficient alternative to driving. According to founder and CEO Travis VanderZanden, the new Bird One model builds on the initial Bird Zero scooter. Bird One builds on the benefits and learnings of Bird Zero and is forecasted to last in the sharing environment for well over a year. Given the excitement and demand for our next generation e-scooter, we are also making a limited supply of Bird Ones available to own," VanderZanden said in a statement. The Bird One scooters offer GPS capabilities, a digital lock and anti-theft capabilities, and access to the Bird Hunter Network, or staff that are trained to recover missing scooters. The $1,299 price tag comes with a one-year warranty and a $100 credit toward any rentable Bird e-scooters, such as those currently available in Brookline, the company said. According to Bird, the vehicles have extended battery life that lasts up to 30 miles in one charge, and a design that protects the electronic parts against rain, dust and inclement weather. The company brands the Bird One as the industrys most comfortable ride thanks to custom-designed wheels that can take on different types of terrain. The purchasable scooters also operate within the Bird app, allowing users to track the vehicle and digitally lock it. The company says it is the only e-scooter available for purchase that offers this in-app technology. You are here: Business A freighter docks at Lianyungang Port, east China's Jiangsu Province, March 14, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua] China's foreign trade of goods climbed 4.3 percent year on year in the first four months of this year to 9.51 trillion yuan (about 1.41 trillion U.S. dollars), customs data showed Wednesday. Exports increased by 5.7 percent year on year to 5.06 trillion yuan during this period, while imports went up by 2.9 percent to 4.45 trillion yuan, the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said. Trade surplus rose by 31.8 percent to 618.17 billion yuan during this period. April trade expanded by 6.5 percent to reach 2.51 trillion yuan. Exports grew by 3.1 percent in yuan terms last month, while imports jumped by 10.3 percent, GAC data showed. Trade surplus stood at 93.57 billion yuan in April, shrinking by 43.8 percent year on year. General trade grew faster than processing trade during the Jan.-April period, which also saw an increasing share in China's total trade volume. Exports of mechanical and electrical products, as well as labor-intensive products such as textile and furniture, maintained growth in the first four months of this year. The European Union was China's largest trading partner during this period, followed by the ASEAN, the United States and Japan. Trade with Belt and Road countries totaled 2.73 trillion yuan, up 9.1 percent year on year, more than doubling the overall pace. China's private firms reported faster trade growth, expanding at 11 percent year on year to reach 3.9 trillion yuan during this period, GAC data showed. Opposing non-medical vaccine exemptions for school attendance, supporting proposed state and local excise taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages and advocating for legislation in which consent for abortion requires only pregnancy and medical decision-making capacity are among resolutions the Massachusetts Medical Society has adopted into organization policy. Physician members of MMSs House of Delegates attended the organization's 2019 Annual Meeting May 2 through 4 in Boston and considered a number of resolutions for such adoption. The resolutions approved highlight an increased advocacy role for health care providers as preventable diseases re-emerge nationally and globally, new Title X federal regulations narrow access to reproductive health services by pulling family planning funding from centers whose options include abortion counseling and chronic disease related to poor nutrition continues to add to the cost of health care. The new MMS adopted resolutions include one that defines attaining quality health care as a basic human right at a time when other federal regulations will bar from permanent residency an immigrant receiving public assistance, such as health care through Medicaid, and Trump administration efforts to strike down all of the Affordable Care Act could end health insurance coverage for 21 million Americans. Included in MMS resolution on taxes on sugary drinks is for resulting revenues to be directed to programs that help alleviate hunger and promote access to healthy foods. It has been estimated that one out of 10 Massachusetts households faces food insecurity and that the impact of this on health care and other related factors costs the commonwealth $2.4 billion in 2016. MMS is not alone in its advocacy for allowing only medical immunization exemptions as the number of measles cases in the United States is the highest in 25 years despite this countrys overall high rate of immunization. The disease is highly contagious and cases imported from countries experiencing outbreaks have led to outbreaks in under-vaccinated areas in several states. A bill, whose opponents include the states Roman Catholic bishops, that would allow Massachusetts women under age 18 to have abortions without consent from a parent or a judge is now pending in the State Legislature and an MMS spokesperson said this what its organization policy looks to support. A recent study showed that the small number of minors - mainly non-Hispanic black and black - lacking parental consent in obtaining an abortion in the state and using judicial bypass were delayed by about 14 days and in general lost the option for a medication abortion early in pregnancy. In adopting the resolution on abortion, MMS cited long-standing policy that remains unchanged. It said this policy states abortion is a medical procedure and should be performed only by a duly licensed physician in conformance with standards of good medical practice and the Medical Practice Act of his state and that neither physician, hospital, nor hospital personnel shall be required to perform an act violative of good medical judgement or personally held moral principles. In these circumstances, good medical practice requires only that the physician or other professional withdraw from the case, so long as the withdrawal is consistent with good medical practice. Massachusetts State Troopers and a State Police lieutenant allegedly worked together to perpetrate the overtime abuse scam that has enveloped the department and led to criminal charges against ten officers, federal prosecutors said in a court filing Wednesday. The disclosure comes in response to a directive by Judge Mark Wolf, who this week ordered prosecutors to submit a memo justify the sentencing deal they cut with former Trooper Daren DeJong. Wolf delayed DeJongs sentencing following a hearing last Thursday, saying he needed more information to determine whether the troopers conduct was a criminal conspiracy that deserves additional prison time. Defendant DeJong admitted to Massachusetts Attorney Generals Office investigators that he had engaged in AIRE overtime abuse in coordination with other members of Troop E via phone and/or radio communication, prosecutors wrote in the filing. Examples of the alleged coordination included deciding to go home early and not to write tickets on days with bad weather. They also allegedly agreed not to divulge those conversations or attract attention to their activities by stopping cars, prosecutors said. DeJong and his unnamed colleagues also allegedly agreed to pre-write tickets prior to some overtime shifts -- a practice that prosecutors have accused multiple troopers of following to misrepresent their work hours. Implicated troopers would allegedly write false timestamps on the tickets and submit them as evidence that they had worked overtime hours they had actually skipped. "Based upon information the Attorney Generals Office provided to the government on May 3, 2019, the government believes that one of the individuals that participated in some of the above-mentioned activity with defendant DeJong was former MSP Lieutenant A,' " the filing continues. The filing does not identify the lieutenant, but says the Attorney Generals Office has accused him of stealing $11,000 in 2015 and $19,000 in 2016 -- figures that match the allegations against former Lt. David Wilson. Wilson pleaded guilty to a federal embezzlement charge in January and is awaiting trial on state charges. The filing also makes clear that Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healeys investigation was still generating information as of last month. DeJong admitted the coordination to the Attorney Generals Office on April 10 under the protection of a proffer agreement, according to the filing. Federal prosecutors have asked Wolf to sentence DeJong to six months in prison. His defense team is requesting one year of probation with six months of home confinement and the repayment of $14,062 in restitution. DeJong, a 57-year-old retired trooper from Uxbridge, is one over 40 troopers investigated for potential overtime abuse. At total of 10 troopers have been charged in the overtime investigation by federal and state prosecutors. Authorities said DeJong skipped or left early during overtime shifts and fabricated traffic tickets to claim pay for unworked hours. He claimed nearly $64,000 in overtime pay in 2016, $14,062 of which was for hours he did not work, authorities said. He has pleaded guilty to a federal charge of embezzlement. DeJong, like the other troopers charged in the scandal, was accused of abusing two types of overtime shifts funded by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation: AIRE patrols, where were four-hour overtime shifts created to reduce accidents, and X-Team patrols, which were eight-hour shifts targeted at aggressive drivers. DeJong cooperated extensively with the AGs investigation and is not a target of that probe, federal prosecutors said in his sentencing memorandum. But he did not provide information to federal authorities, and his sentence still requires the approval of Wolf, leaving him exposed to additional prison time if the judge rejects the sentencing recommendations. State Police Troop E, which was responsible for patrolling the Massachusetts Turnpike, was disbanded last year as part of a set of reforms implemented by Col. Kerry Gilpin. Floods, droughts, wildfires and snowstorms will all get worse and more frequent because of global climate change, planners warn, and towns and cities in the Pioneer Valley must start getting ready now. A fundamental point is just how serious climate threats are to the Pioneer Valley and the implications for vulnerable populations, said Larry Field, deputy director of the Massachusetts Smart Growth Alliance, comparing the coming natural disasters to the devastating Hurricane Irene that flooded communities back in 2011. The Massachusetts Smart Growth Alliance and the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission will host 13 or more municipal officials and others from around the region Thursday for a summit to discuss Strategies for thriving in an era of climate crisis and inequality. The event at Gateway City Arts, 92 Race St., Holyoke, begins at 8 a.m. Scientists project that Western Massachusetts could face a hundred-year flood every two or three years by 2025 as the planet continues to heat up and the weather becomes more unstable, Field said. In 2017 alone, there was an estimated $307 billion in damage to real estate in the United States from storms and natural disasters, Alliance Executive Director Andre Leroux said in a news release. And poor communities were the hardest hit. Strengthening those neighborhoods now will save money down the road. For example, Field said roads and bridges must be built differently. Hospitals, fire departments and utilities must be ready. Housing stock, factories and farms must be ready. Towns and cities must break down the silos that govern most decision making and get planners, engineers and health officials all on the same page, Field said. Thursdays discussion will include lessons learned from the natural gas disaster last fall in the Merrimack Valley and the recovery after the 2011 tornado in Springfield, along with a series of rapid-fire three-minute presentations on thought-provoking ideas, according to a news release. Members of the public are welcome. Tickets can be found at www.great-neighborhoods.org/pvsummit. The cost is $25 for the half-day program. SPRINGFIELD While teachers called the Sabis International Charter School curriculum too rigid, too fast-paced and too focused on testing, its founders and management on Tuesday asked trustees to let the schools past successes continue. The board of trustees for the 1,574-student school held a meeting to gather information as it prepares to decide who will manage the school in the future. More than 150 people, including parents, students, teachers and alumni, attended the meeting at the school, and more than two dozen people spoke. About half called for teachers and trustees to manage the school while the other half asked to keep Sabis Educational Services Inc. as the school manager. When Becky Larsons son was entering school, she said she prayed he would be accepted as a Sabis student in the lottery system. Later she joined him as a teacher in the math department, and her enthusiasm has waned. "I will say my son is doing remarkably well in spite of the issues and the constraints of the teachers," she said. She said she and other teachers face constant roadblocks because of the Sabis curriculum and materials the teachers must use. She said she was required to give students a math test designed by management, but that nearly half the material was not covered in the lesson plans also provided by management. Im going to give a test with 43% of the material that the kids didnt learn. Thats not going to happen because it isnt ethical, she said. The school was created 24 years ago when then Gov. William Weld demanded one of the struggling Springfield schools be turned into a charter school. City officials selected Glickman Elementary School, which was ranked 28th of the 29 elementary schools for performance. After spending months of studying management firms, officials selected Sabis, former Mayor Robert Markel said. The school soared. It jumped to be the fourth highest-performing school in the city, and then the highest. It has been listed as one of the best charter schools in the country, he said. "It is successful," he said. "This curriculum has been a success. I don't see board management has worked across the state." The management contract will expire at the end of the next school year, and trustees are exploring alternatives. Because many of the meetings will be held behind closed doors, which is allowed by state law for negotiations, the board wanted to first talk to people invested in the school, said John DaCruz, who served as meeting moderator. The board members did not speak at the meeting. DaCruz said their role was to be there to listen. No Board of Trustees decision has been made, no position has been taken, Chairwoman Sonja Shaw said in writing. The Board of Trustees wants to be sure to provide an opportunity for community input at the beginning of the process. Critics said teachers must adhere to a pacing clock that requires them to get so much done during each class. That makes it difficult to be able to take extra time on a concept or help students who dont understand something. At Sabis students have great potential. We hold our students behind by teaching them in a box, said Brittany Archey, a teacher and Sabis graduate. It is about them, they deserve better. Our students are geniuses, but they are only graded by the test. Andres Gomez, a 2003 graduate, said he was first educated in Puerto Rico and then in Springfield public schools before going to Sabis. He found that school much better. I was frightened, I thought a history of 25 years of proven success would be erased, he said of the prospect of changing how the school is managed. It challenged me and it pushed me. But not all alumni praised the system. Jason Flanders, who graduated in 2005, said his teachers were great and he loved the school, but the system of weekly standardized testing didnt help him. "I struggled in college and I breezed through here," he said. "I think a one-size solution doesn't fit all." Former Springfield Public Schools Superintendent Peter Negroni, who was one of the charter schools founders, agreed the teachers make the school and questioned the idea of self-management. He said he has visited Sabis schools across the world and strongly supports them. "Sabis made this work with the wonderful teachers they had. Schools are failing across the country every single day and they have good teachers," he said. But some long-term faculty said what worked 25 years ago is not working now. Tina Le, the head of the math department for grades six through 12, said she has taught in the school for 20 years. In the good old days, she said, class sized were small, pacing requirements were flexible and there was time to teach students in different ways. In some ways teaching is easy at Sabis because the tests, books and curriculum are handed to the teacher, Le said. But educators are required to pack too much into class time and class sizes are now over 30 students. Le said she supports a switch to self-governance. Several representatives from Sabis Educational Services said they hope to remain as the management firm for the school. Jose Afonso, the head of business development for Sabis Educational Services, talked about the schools high MCAS scores, which are better than the state average in the high school, and the nearly 100% graduation rates. The school also continues to close the achievement gap between low-income and minority students and their more affluent, white peers, Alfonso said. We are putting at risk essentially a program that has served so many students very well, he said. SPRINGFIELD A city man who was arrested last year and charged along with seven others with being part of a conspiracy to shuttle narcotics and unlawful firearms between Vermont and Springfield has admitted his guilt in federal court. Dinelson Dinzey, 35, pleaded guilty to an assortment of charges, including five counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine; two counts of money laundering conspiracy; and single counts of conspiracy to distribute heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine; conspiracy to engage in the unlicensed dealing of firearms; engaging in the unlicensed dealing of firearms; and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Sept. 4. He could face up to 20 years in federal prison. According to prosecutors, Dinzey and co-defendant Nia Moore-Bush of Springfield, would purchase drugs in Springfield and then bring them to the area of Barre, Vermont, and sell it at a profit. They are accused of laundering money from those sales through the bank account of a third suspect, Daphne Moore, who is the mother of Nia Moore-Bush, and worked as an assistant magistrate for Hampden Superior Court. She is accused helping her daughter launder drug and gun money, and then lying about those transactions to investigators. According to state records, Moore, who was indicted in December, earned $119,000 in salary in 2018. She has been suspended without pay since her indictment. At the time of their arrest in January 2018, Moore-Bush and Dinzey were living in Moores home at 120 Hadley St. in the East Forest section of Springfield. Federal agents executed a search warrant on the home at the time of their arrests. Dinzey and Moore-Bush are also charged with the unlicensed sale of firearms in May 2017. Federal officials traced weapons that were sold illegally to locations in Vermont and New Hampshire. Moore and Moore-Bush await trial, as do two other city residents, Oscar Rosario and Luis Niko Santos. According to court documents, Rosario is scheduled to appear in court for a hearing on Monday. The New York Times has obtained 10 years worth of Donald J. Trumps tax records, which reveal the businessman-turned-politician reported $1 billion in business losses over a decade. Trump has fought to keep his tax returns out of the public eye, but the New York Times obtained printouts of Trumps official Internal Revenue Service tax transcripts, with the figures from his federal 1040 form, from 1985 to 1994. The financial data does not cover the years at the center of a battle between the Trump administration and House Democrats, though it details what the New York Times described as the most tumultuous chapter in a long business career an era of fevered acquisition and spectacular collapse. The tax numbers, for the years 1985 through 1994, paint a far bleaker picture of Mr. Trumps deal-making abilities and financial condition than the one he has long put forth, the newspaper stated. Trumps losses totaled $1.17 billion for the decade examined. During that period, Trump bought the Eastern Airlines shuttle for $365 million; it never made a profit, and he spent more than $7 million a month to keep it flying. His Trump Taj Mahal Hotel and Casino, opened in 1990 with more than $800 million in debt, pulling revenue from his other casinos and placing them in the red. Through it all, Trump paid no federal taxes in eight of the 10 years, according to the New York Times. U.S. Rep. Richard E.Neal, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, has been rebuffed by the IRS in his effort to review Trumps tax returns for the past six years. Neal has argued the IRS has an unambiguous legal obligation" to turn over the presidents returns under section 6103 of the tax code, which states that the treasury secretary shall furnish a request from the congressional committees with tax oversight. However, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has refused, saying the committees request lacks a legitimate legislative purpose. Venezuelan opposition leader, Juan Guaido, has pleaded to the military and civilians to show defiance against President Nicholas Maduro. Each man has appealed to his supporters to make a public show of strength. Venezuelas National Assembly has refused to recognize Mr. Maduros re-election in a contest his critics say was rigged. Meanwhile Mr. Guaido declared himself interim president. Whether is be Venezuela, Turkey, Iran, China, etc., it seems that leaders that have military support and roughly half of the popular support are likely to maintain control of government even if the opposition candidate won a slight majority of election votes. What if a United States presidential incumbent were to refuse to transfer the office to an opposition candidate who won by a narrow margin, could we see a similar situation to the Venezuela crisis? It appears our Constitution has enough safe-guards built in to prevent such and event, but what if? Bill Paul, Chicopee School officials in Brockton, Worcester, New Bedford and Chelsea say they have hit a breaking point and will move forward with a lawsuit if legislators dont make long-term fixes to the funding formula by the time the next school year starts. We actually have social studies books that do not have 9/11 in them, said Kathleen Smith, superintendent of Brockton Public Schools, at a news briefing Wednesday morning. Thats unacceptable. School officials and lawyers declined to say exactly when a lawsuit would be filed and exactly what would trigger such a decision. Tripp Jones, a Democrat and education strategist, said the coalitions decision depends on what steps lawmakers make over the summer to address an outdated formula, among other issues. The Foundation Budget Review Commission concluded in a 2015 report that the state was underfunding Massachusetts schools by $1 billion to $2 billion and suggested revamping the state funding formula. The report identified four categories that needed increasing support: employee health benefits, special education, English language learners and low-income students. Lawmakers failed last session to pass a bill to fulfill the commissions recommendations. This session, the Joint Committee on Education has reviewed more than a dozen education-related bills, including one filed by Republican Gov. Charlie Baker and another by Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz, a Boston Democrat. The Joint Committee on Education plans to release a bill from committee as soon this summer, said Sen. Jason Lewis, the Senates chair on the committee. Whether the House and Senate would vote on such a bill before school starts is unclear. It is a top priority of the House, Senate and Gov. Baker to address education funding reform this year, said Lewis, a Winchester Democrat. Rep. Alice Hanlon Peisch, a Wellesley Democrat and the Houses committee chairwoman, said in a statement that the committee is working on resolving differences among the various bills filed to meet the commissions recommendations. Given the progress that has been made to date, I continue to be optimistic that the Committee will soon be able to report out a bill that addresses all of the recommendations and ensures that those students with the highest needs are well served, she said. A spokeswoman for the Executive Office of Education said Bakers funding reform legislation and his budget offers significant increases to the highest-need communities that educate the most economically disadvantaged students, including communities such as Brockton, New Bedford and Worcester, and represents a historic investment in communities that struggle with persistent achievement gaps. The House and Senate both incorporated increases in Chapter 70 funding into their budgets but said they would defer to the Joint Committee on Education for additional funding changes. Its not enough. Its not aggressive enough, and its not recognizing the students," said Mary Bourque, superintendent of Chelsea Public Schools, who served on the Foundation Budget Review Commission that made its recommendations in 2015. While school districts across Massachusetts are feeling the strains, school officials said Wednesday that Gateway Cities are uniquely affected because they serve immigrant and low-income families who cannot make pay higher taxes to offset the deficit. They have a higher number of low-income students and English Language Learners than their more affluent neighbors, yet their districts have cut teachers, counselors and student enrichment programs. Smith, the Brockton superintendent, said that while the school districts projected deficit is lower than in previous years, the outdated textbooks are just an example of the gaps that persist. More than half of Brockton students are considered low-income and may have experienced more trauma. Brockton also admits more than 1,800 immigrant students per year. Yet the school district has lost teachers, after-school and summer programs and other resources from deficits in the past few years. Two years ago, the school district had a $16.9 million gap, which prompted the district to cut 80 teachers that summer and another 100 after. Its sad that I as superintendent ... know every ink cartridge were buying. Thats not OK, Smith told MassLive. The Brockton School Committee just passed its $173 million budget for 2019-20 without laying off employees or cutting programs, according to The Enterprise. That budget includes a $5.6 million projected deficit. Smith said that isnt as bad as previous gaps but still prevents the school district from recuperating what it lost. Chelsea Public Schools Superintendent Mary Bourque, who served on the Foundation Budget Review Committee, said her district cut summer programs and only offer remediation and intervention for some students over the summer. The district also cut an after-school program called citizen school in recent years, which would offer academic and enrichment programs for students in grades 5 to 8. The Chelsea School Committee has made additional cuts in its latest budget while waiting for a long-term fix from lawmakers. The committee recently passed a $95.4 million budget with a $1.9 million deficit, according to the Chelsea Record. The district cut 10 teaching positions. As the memories started to pour out, many seemed to center around honor. An honor to serve alongside Meaghan Burns. Her honor in serving, an active member of the Navy. And there was the honor in Burnss death. Her family, in a touching obituary, wrote that she was trying to help a friend, a fellow Navy corpsman, when gun violence claimed both their lives. The Navy community felt the pain. Fair winds and following seas, several offered in online condolences. Burns, 23, was not far from her station at the Portsmouth Naval Medical Center in Virginia when she and 19-year-old Shianne Soles, of Veradale, Washington, were fatally shot Saturday night. Nearby, authorities discovered 22-year-old Donavon Moora, a Navy corpsman who was stationed at Field Medical Training Battalion East, Jacksonville, North Carolina, according to Charles Gulick, a spokesman for the Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. He died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to The Virginian-Pilot. "I never wanted to know how it felt to lose a child, Burnss father, Matthew, told the Greenfield Recorder. Its like having your heart ripped out of your chest. Friends were grappling with grief, too. It was an honor to stand beside you. you were so sweet and so funny," wrote Angelica Real on Facebook. "I dont have many memories but the few that I do are so pure. I hate you lost your life to senseless gun violence, you were so much more than that. A shipmate gone too soon, RIP Megs. it was an honor to stand beside you. you were so sweet and so funny. I dont have many memories but the few that I do... Posted by Angelica Real on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 Burns loved Massachusetts, her family recalled, from the beaches of Cape Cod to the hills of Western Massachusetts. And she loved her work in the Navy, the family recalled in her obituary. She was a proud sailor and was planning to further her career in healthcare at the end of her enlistment, the obituary reads. Burns enlisted in 2015 and served as a Hospital Corpsman in Naples, Italy. We got to Italy around the same time, didnt hang out as much but you were a great friend, wrote Kyle Free on Facebook. Youll be missed. Rest in Peace. Meaghan Burns I just found out, We got to Italy around the same time, didn't hang out as much but you were a great friend. You'll be missed. Rest in Peace. Posted by Kyle Free on Tuesday, May 7, 2019 Another friend, Inisha Coleman, wrote simply, you were such a great person. Burnss father told the Greenfield Recorder that his daughters body will be flown by the Navy to Bradley International Airport in Connecticut. From there, she will get a military escort to Wrisley Funeral Home in South Deerfield. Meaghan, you were a bright light in this undeserving world, reads an anonymous message left in the online guest book with Burnss obituary. Shine on. Love you always and forever. Another message read, I may not have known you, but you are a Sailor, that makes you my sister. I may not have known you, but you are a Corpsman, which makes you a hero. Your watch is not over just in a different place in heaven now, but down here you can rest we have the watch now. Thank you for the service you gave your country and may your family find peace one day. You are never forgotten. Francisco Urena, the Massachusetts secretary of veterans affairs, offered condolences on Twitter. Saddened to learn that Massachusetts native, U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman Meaghan Burns of Deerfield was killed in a double murder-suicide Saturday in Portsmouth, Virginia, he wrote. My condolences to her family trying to understand this senseless act of violence. Burns was born in Springfield in 1995 and moved with her family to South Deerfield in 2004, according to her obituary. Burns is survived by her parents, Carolyn and Matthew, and her younger sister Kyleigh Rose, as well as extended family. There will be no formal calling hours, according to the obituary, but a celebration of life will be planned for later this spring. Friends and family could not be reached Wednesday. SPRINGFIELD Lisa Ziegerts family was in the courtroom Wednesday for a brief session to set hearing dates for Gary Schara, the man accused of killing the 24-year-old in Agawam in 1992. While Schara was brought into the Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse from the Hampden County Correctional Center in Ludlow, his attorney, Paul Rudof, waived Scharas presence in the courtroom. Ziegerts family, including parents Dee and George Ziegert, have promised to attend all court events for Scharas case. Dee Ziegert carried a picture of Lisa Ziegert in Hampden Superior Court Wednesday. The hearing took mere minutes. Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni and Rudof set a status conference for Sept. 13. Motions must be filed by Oct. 11. A scheduling conference will be held Oct. 18. No trial date was set Wednesday. Friends accompanied the family members, who sat with victim witness advocate Deborah Chieco. Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Dunphy Farris is prosecuting the case with Gulluni. Schara, 48, of West Springfield, has pleaded not guilty to murder, kidnapping and aggravated rape in Ziegerts death. Ziegert, 24, was a teacher's assistant in Agawam Middle School when she was abducted from her second job at Brittany's Card & Gift Shoppe on Walnut Street Extension in Agawam on April 15, 1992. Her body was found four days later in a wooded area off Route 75. The Westfield State University graduate had been raped and stabbed, police said. Gulluni has said his office built on investigators past efforts with new advances in DNA technology and more detective work that led local and state police to Scharas door on Sept. 14, 2017. Police told his roommate they were interested in speaking with Schara, who was on a short list of suspects from whom police were seeking DNA samples, investigators have said. Schara agreed to talk with police the following day, but instead tried to kill himself, leaving a handwritten confession, according to Gulluni. Police took Schara into custody at a Connecticut hospital. Passengers may no longer have to turn off their cellphones when flying, but Wi-Fi in the skies is still in its infancy. However, Inmarsat has the latest solution for inflight internet access. During a group interview held at the Shanghai Inflight Connectivity Technology (ICT) Conference, David Coiley, vice president of Inmarsat Aviation, introduced Global Xpress (GX) and stated that a number of airlines are scheduled to put the revolutionary system into operation. "In addition to allowing passengers to use familiar applications like Baidu and Alipay, a key part of the service is the emerging ecosystem of partners that provide dedicated services to passengers when they fly." said Coiley. Coiley explained that different communication frequencies have different strengths: the L-band frequency used by the SwiftBroadband-Safety (SB-S) ensures reliable voice and data links as well as safety services in the air and at sea, while the KA-band is better for enabling fast broadband services on ships and aircraft. "So Inmarsat has taken a lot of the best bits of our 40-year history, and rolled those into GX," Coiley said. Each GX satellite has 72 beams covering the earth's surface, he said. In that way, they differ from the older KU-band satellites, which had much broader satellite beams leading to diffuse services covering wide geographic areas. GX, by contrast, has spots that cover a relatively small area ensuring more stable and abundant capacity. Six additional spot beams are also in place to provide additional coverage for smooth access around busy hubs or during peak air traffic hours. So far, Inmarsat has launched 13 satellites; four KA-band and nine L-band. The company will continue to launch additional satellites, with GX5 scheduled for later this year. The growth is to meet the demand of increasingly busy airspace, with passenger numbers expected to double by 2035. GX5 will deliver more capacity to Europe and the Middle East; areas where the number of passengers requiring connectivity is on the rise. Meanwhile, the company is continuing its 40-year-long partnership with the China Transport Telecommunication & Information Center to further explore the substantial market potential. Coiley shared that the company expects "a revolution" in regards to providing service to customers in China, specifically in implementing the GX system. He revealed that some Chinese aircraft have already adopted the GX service and have the system installed and ready to implement within the year. According to a report from the London School of Economics, the auxiliary revenue and operational savings combined for inflight connectivity could be worth US$45 billion to the global airline industry by 2035. The auxiliary revenue for aviation currently stands at less than US$1 billion. With more than 700 branches, ABC Supply Co. works with thousands of contractors every year to support construction and building projects. One of the leading wholesale materials distributors in the United States, the Beloit, Wisconsin, company offers its customers innovative credit programs, allowing contractors to purchase materials for roofing, siding, and windows, and pay the company back at a later date with minimal interest. With these credit programs a vital aspect of its business, how can ABC Supply expand future credit opportunities with customers and monitor operations more wisely? Northwestern Engineering Master of Science in Analytics (MSiA) students Joseph Cook and Nuo Xu turned to the data for solutions. Winners of MSiAs sixth annual Hackathon on Wednesday, May 1, Cook and Xu analyzed credit and revenue data across all ABC Supply branches to explain the contributing factors of why some branches were handling credit extensions better than others. The team used data aggregation and PCA cluster modeling to study ABC Supply branches across multiple datasets, including revenue per account, average credit line, and average past due amount. Charting the data as three indexes prosperity, credit usage, and bad credit the team found several distinct clusters of branch performance emerge. High-performing branches, for example, carried large revenues, extended moderate amounts of credit, and took on little overdue debt, while more at-risk branches earned moderate levels of revenue and carried larger amounts of bad credit. The team believes their analysis could help ABC Supplys central operations team better pinpoint branches in need of credit support, as well as branches that could afford to be more aggressive in the credit they offer. For these entrepreneurial-minded branch owners, how do you help them benchmark against other branches? Cook said. This is an exploratory tool, but it helps branch owners see where they stand. Other tools could follow that outline steps to improve how these branches are using credit. Cook and Xu were one of nearly two dozen teams to present at the Hackathon, a collaboration between the McCormick School of Engineerings MSiA program and ABC Supply. The day-long competition challenged students to use skills developed in the program to analyze large datasets in hopes of making unique discoveries. You all made fantastic presentations, especially considering that you only had six hours to work with, said MSiA Program Director Diego Klabjan, addressing students during the Hackathons awards ceremony. I hope you found this day rewarding as a learning experience and an opportunity to use real data to gain some important insights. Klabjan, professor of industrial engineering and management sciences, co-led the event along with ABC Supplys business and data science teams. Members of ABC Supply met with students the day prior to the Hackathon to present to introduce them to the datasets. As the competition started, the teams were given the open-ended prompt: how can ABC Supply use their analytics to improve how it monitors and extends credit? The companys data analysts served as a resource for students during the competition, answering questions and sharing feedback on approaches to the data. After six hours of leveraging their skills, the student teams discussed their findings with a panel of judges that included ABC Supply members and MSiA alumni Jill Fan (MSiA 18), Zili Li (MSiA 18), and Madhuri Gupta (MSiA 17). Teams were assessed by their approach with the data, creativity, and final presentation. As winners of the Hackathon, Cook and Xu will be sponsored by ABC Supply to attend a data science conference of their choice. Finishing in second place, students Yanrong Ji and Sharon Zhang used data clustering techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of ABC Supplys current risk score metric assigned to customers. The team used credit behavior data like average and max amount due and overdue, account age, and a branchs relative proportion of bad credit to characterize customers in six groups based on their perceived late payment risk. The teams results noted opportunities to raise credit lines for high-guarantee customers, as well as ways to modify the companys risk score to account for the different nature of overdue credit payments. Other winners at the event included Dhansree Suraj and Naomi Kaduwela, who earned third place honors. Ted Carlson and Marcus Thuillier were winners of a separate competition focused on developing data visualizations of ABC Supply data. With so many approaches to tackle the data, students were drawn to the unrestricted nature of the challenge. One of the things I enjoyed the most was that the prompts were so open ended, MSiA student Shreyas Sabnis said. We didnt go into the day knowing what problem we were going to solve, but we understood what to look for as we studied the data. Many of the concepts we learned in class proved to be extremely useful. Chinese students are increasingly diversifying their choices of destinations for overseas studies, with more students choosing to go to the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada, a new report showed. In a multiple choice survey for the annual Report on Chinese Students' Overseas Study, released on Tuesday, while the United States remains the most popular destination for overseas study this year, preferred by 43 percent of the respondents, this was down by 8 percentage points compared with 2015. US dominance looks uncertain as the number of students inclined to study in the UK rose sharply in 2019, accounting for 41 percent, up 9 percentage points compared with 2015. Australia and Canada remain the third and fourth most popular destinations for overseas study, accounting for 18 percent and 16 percent respectively, followed by Hong Kong, Germany and Japan, the report found. The report was based on a survey conducted by Vision Overseas Consulting Co, a subsidiary of New Oriental Education and Technology Group and Kantar Millward Brown in January and February. The survey covered 6,228 students who plan to go to school overseas or have returned to China after graduation, and their parents. It is the fifth consecutive year the report was released. Sun Tao, president of Vision Overseas Consulting Co, said: "More students chose to go to the UK for overseas study because of its high-quality higher education institutions and relatively lower costs compared with the US." Many UK universities now offer one-year master's program, which can greatly decrease the students' cost, he said, adding that the UK government has also implemented more favorable visa policies for Chinese students, he said. The report also found that studying overseas is no longer limited to wealthy families, and the number of students from middle-class families studying overseas keeps growing. According to the survey on parents' professional backgrounds, most parents whose children prefer studying overseas hold ordinary positions at work, accounting for 43 percent of the total, up 14 percentage points from 2015. Parents who are middle-level managers accounted for 35 percent, and those who are high-level executives accounted for 22 percent, the report said. The number of students studying overseas for master's degrees continues to increase, accounting for 70 percent of the total, up from 57 percent in 2016. They are studying overseas to obtain higher academic qualifications and be more competitive in the domestic job market, it said. While more students are now realizing that studying overseas no longer guarantees a well-paid job, the report found that 70 percent of respondents said they do not care about return on investment and are more appreciative of other rewards of overseas study experience, including better adaptive ability. Gao Ang, an undergraduate student at the University of California, Berkeley, said he does not regret going to the US despite its high cost. Overseas study provides students with many advantagestheir experience tends to equip them with a global mindset and better language and communication skillsimportant characteristics for future promotion opportunities, he said. In 2018, 662,100 Chinese people went abroad to study, up 8.83 percent year-on-year, according to the Ministry of Education. Chinese authorities closed the websites of nine illegal social organizations and banned their public accounts on social media platforms Wechat and Weibo in accordance with the law, the Ministry of Civil Affairs (MCA) said Tuesday. The campaign was jointly carried out by the MCA and cyberspace affairs as well as telecom authorities, following reports that websites of some illicit social organizations that had been prohibited were still in operation. The MCA and the Ministry of Public Security had launched a crackdown on illegal social organizations between last April and December. A total of 5,845 had been investigated and handled and over 300 suspected ones exposed. The ministry said it will continue to beef up the crackdown and strengthen online and offline inspections, adding that those incorrigible founders of illegal organizations will be blacklisted by relevant authorities. The ministry said members of the public can check registration information of social organizations at www.chinanpo.gov.cn. The country currently has more than 800,000 registered social organizations, according to the MCA. Sterilization Technology Market Synopsis The latest report by Market Research Future (MRFR) states that the Sterilization Technology Market is poised to touch the valuation of USD 8,142.61 million by 2023, expanding at a moderate CAGR of 8.20% during the forecast period (2018-2023). Sterilization refers to the process of completely eliminating any object or surface from bacteria or other pathogenic agents. Moreover, opting for a specific particular method of sterilization is dependent on various aspects like constituents of the sterilizing object, microbial load, type of application, classification and suitability of sterilization method and so on. However, it is in the medical field that sterilization is given the utmost importance, for preventing the buildup of disease-causing pathogens and the spreading of diseases. Get Free Sample Copy at https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1312 Sterilization Technology Market Top Key Players The global sterilization technology market is inundated with various competing players, which include Advanced Sterilization Products Services Inc (USA) 3M (USA) Beta Star Life Science Equipment (USA) Donaldson Co. Inc. (USA) Sterile Technologies Inc. (USA) Atec Pharmatechnik GmbH (Germany) Steris PLC (UK) Feldmeier Equipment Inc (USA) among others. In 2019 TSO3 Inc., company with the expertise in sterilization technology for medical devices in healthcare sector, announced that the company has received an order for the 100th unit of its industry-leading STERIZONE VP4 Sterilizer. The bulk of this order is from US and Canadian customers, which is the highest order rate the company has ever received. Sterilization Technology Market Segmentation The global market for sterilization technology has been segmented on the basis of type, process, and end-user. The types of sterilization technology in the global market are ionizing radiation, ethylene oxide, filtration, thermal sterilization, and others. Among these, the ethylene oxide segment is most likely to acquire a substantial market share by 2023 as a result of the strength of its radiation as well as the high penetration rate. Process-wise, the sterilization technology market is segmented into physiochemical, chemical process, physical process, and synergetic process. Here, the market size of chemical process segment is touted to reach the valuation of USD 5,677.43 million by 2023. The various market end-users in the global sterilization technology market are medical device manufacturers, hospitals & clinics, and pharmaceutical industry. Among all the sub-segments, the pharmaceuticals industry segment is going to be the biggest end-user by the end of the conjectured period on account of the rising demand for sterilization in a bid to avoid contamination of pharmaceutical ingredients. Ask for an Amazing Discount at https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/check-discount/1312 Sterilization Technology Market Drivers and Challenges Rising incidences of hospital acquired infections (HAIs) along with the number of surgeries performed are boosting the sterilization technology market growth. Moreover, the growing usage of e-beam radiation sterilization, advancements in technologies like the use of gas plasma, use of NO2, peracetic acid sterilization, e-beam technology, supercritical CO2 coupled with the expanding healthcare infrastructure are opening new avenues for the sterilization market. But with the cost of sterilization technology being on the higher side, the market could be negatively impacted to some extent in the future. However, the prominence of cosmetic surgical procedures to enhance the external appearance is resulting in the elevated adoption of sterilization technologies for creating sterile working conditions. This factor will play a significant role in the enhancement of the sterilization technology market in the coming years. Sterilization Technology Market Regional Outlook The regions where the sterilization technology market is prevalent are the Americas (North America and South America), Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), and Middle East & Africa (MEA). Cornering an estimated market share of 40.1%, North America led the global Sterilization Technology Market with the largest share in 2017, with the market slated to retain its top position well into the forecast period. The market owes its phenomenal performance to various factors like growing awareness regarding infections & diseases, improving healthcare expenditures, growing geriatric population, massive patient pool, a strong economy, rising admissions in hospitals due to patients suffering from chronic illness, and the onslaught of technological advancements in healthcare. The region is inundated with well-developed countries such as the United States (US) and Canada that are contributing massively to this market growth. The Europe market stands second in the global market, backed by the factors like increasing number of pharmaceutical, expanding food and beverages industry, growing investment for the development of healthcare infrastructure, and adoption of newer technologies in the sterilization process. The Asia Pacific sterilization technology market has secured the third position globally, owing to the burgeoning aging population, growing healthcare expenditure, high pollution levels, expanding pharmaceutical industry, and thriving medical tourism. The expanding healthcare infrastructure in the region is creating massive revenue generation opportunities for the medical device manufacturers leading to adoption of sterilization products and services. Lastly, increasing prevalence of hospital-acquired infections, coupled with the elevated number of surgical procedures, and government initiations for protection of the public health are bolstering the growth of the sterilization technology market in the Middle East and Africa. About Market Research Future: MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. Contact: Office No. 528, Amanora Chambers Magarpatta Road, Hadapsar, Pune +1 646 845 9312 Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com Making a bad situation worse, Samsung is now uncertain about plans to release the Galaxy Fold. While we continue to make progress in enhancing the Galaxy Fold, a new release date has not yet been announced, a company spokesperson said on Tuesday. As such, the South Korean tech titan says it is contacting consumers who pre-ordered the foldable phone, and letting them know about the situation. The Galaxy Fold was originally set for an official release date of April 26 until Samsung admitted that the highly anticipated phone first needed further improvements. Samsung conceded the foldable screen was susceptible to cracking. The company attributed the problem to foreign substances finding their way under the screens of some phones, which is apparently causing them to weaken and break. advertisement advertisement Samsung was counting on the Galaxy Fold to spark slowing smartphone sales, setting it apart from Apple and other companies without a foldable phone to call their own. Amid growing competition between smartphone makers, Samsung just predicted its lowest quarterly profit in more than two years. From the first quarter of 2019, the company is expecting operating profit of $5.5 billion, which would represent a staggering 60% decline, year-over-year. That's not a surprise to analysts; Samsung said it expected earnings to be weak for the first quarter of 2019, earlier this year. Later this year, Samsung said it expects its prospects to improve as business conditions -- particularly in the memory market -- change. For all of 2019, Samsung recently said it expects solid earnings growth, which it believes will be bolstered by rising demand for image sensors used in more sophisticated camera specifications. China's massive express delivery industry has joined the effort to fight the illegal trade in protected wildlife and products by signing a self-regulatory convention on Tuesday. Fourteen express logistics firms12 domestic ones, such as EMS and SF-Express, and international companies DHL and FedExmade a solemn pledge to take various measures to refuse to transport protected wildlife and related products. The convention, initiated by the China Express Association, also requires companies to strictly follow related laws and regulations, and to provide regular anti-trafficking training for their employees. The 14 companies account for around 90 percent of China's total express delivery market, and their actions are significant in the effort to regulate the logistics market and protect wildlife, said Jiao Zheng, deputy secretary-general of the association. "The convention shows our great determination to fight the illegal trade in wildlife. It will also help companies to reduce the risk of breaking laws and regulations. We hope more express logistics enterprises will join the action," he said. The express logistics industry has expanded rapidly thanks to China's booming e-commerce sector. According to the China Express Association, 50.71 billion parcels were delivered last year, an increase of 26.6 percent year-on-year. The sector generated 603.84 billion yuan ($89.34 billion) in revenue during that period, a year-on-year increase of 21.8 percent. The State Post Bureau forecast that China would become the world's largest express delivery market with a business revenue of 800 billion yuan by 2020. However, with such a rapidly growing industry and the huge volume of parcels, some cross-border trafficking gangs are taking advantage of the convenience of express delivery to sell endangered wildlife and products from overseas to customers in China, said Zhou Fei, chief program officer of the World Wildlife Fund China. He said the WWF welcomed the convention and efforts from the companies. "We'll offer training to their employees based on our research and raise their awareness of wild-life protection," Zhou said. The latest action from the industry follows a number of official measures to fight trafficking in wildlife. Such measures include updating laws and regulations, and more scrutiny at borders. China's customs authorities had seized more than 100 tons of endangered wildlife and related products between Jan 1 and April 15 this year, of which around 300 kilograms were ivory tusks and ivory products, the General Administration of Customs said last month. It also revealed that 182 smuggling cases related to endangered wildlife species had been solved so far this year. Liu Dewang, deputy director of the wildlife conservation department under the State Forestry and Grassland Administration, said on Tuesday that China had taken strong measures to crack down on the illegal trade in wildlife and related products, and the efforts had gained appreciation from the international community. "We're glad to have this convention initiated by the industry and welcome more members of the association to join these efforts," he said. by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, May 8, 2019 Omnicom Media Group veteran Philippa Brown has been appointed CEO, PHD Worldwide. She succeeds Mike Cooper, who was elevated to a new OMG executive role earlier this week as part of a regional management reorganization at the company. Brown steps into her new role after serving as CEO of Omnicom Media Group UK. She joined OMG in 2007 and is credited with leading its UK operation now 1,600 employees and 270 clients strong through a period of consistent growth. Prior to joining OMG, Brown spent 10 years at IPC Media, rising to board director. Her previous experience also includes stints at full-service DMB&B and BBH. Philippa is a proven leader and a natural fit to lead PHD globally, stated OMG CEO Daryl Simm. As CEO of OMG UK, she has worked closely with Mike Cooper in the original positioning of PHD as a global network, and has been heavily involved in PHDs international client successes. She has singular insight into PHDs culture, the expectations that clients have of the agency, and the ongoing transformation required for success. advertisement advertisement Brown will continue to work closely with Cooper, who is now Group CEO for OMGs Asia Pacific and Europe Middle East & Africa regions. Brown's successor to lead OMG UK will be named at a later date. by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, May 8, 2019 The Ogilvy Group has confirmed new roles for two of its senior executives. Lauren Crampsie has been promoted to President of its New York and New Jersey business, the largest portfolio of clients and agency capabilities in The Ogilvy Group's worldwide network. Additionally, Lou Aversano, CEO of Ogilvy USA since 2017, will become Chief Client Officer, Worldwide for The Ogilvy Group. Effective immediately, Crampsie will be responsible for driving all aspects of Ogilvy's integrated business model of six core capabilities Brand Strategy, Advertising, Public Relations & Influence, Customer Engagement & Commerce, Digital Transformation, and Partnerships for the combined client portfolio of Ogilvy's New York and New Jersey offices. advertisement advertisement Crampsie will maintain her role as Worldwide Chief Marketing Officer as part of The Ogilvy Group's Executive Leadership Team. For the past three years, Crampsie has served as senior advisor to CEO John Seifert, for the company's brand re-founding and "One Ogilvy" business strategy. "Lauren has been a critical partner to me on all aspects of our 'One Ogilvy' transformation, stated Siefert. Her extensive business development experience, strategic marketing understanding, and passion for talent diversity and inclusiveness are essential to Ogilvy's strategy for making our clients' brands matter in today's rapidly changing business environment." In his new position Aversano will lead Ogilvy's Client Service practice globally. "Lou's greatest skill is as a client's trusted advisor for complex brand and business challenges, Siefert said. Leveraging this expertise more broadly across our client portfolio globally will deliver more value for Ogilvy and our clients moving forward." For now Aversanos previous slot wont be filled and Seifert will oversee a core team of USA market leaders. by Sara Guaglione , May 8, 2019 Revenue from Axel Springers digital offerings grew by 8.9%, according to its first-quarter report, compared to the same January-March period in 2018. The increase was led by the companys strong online classifieds business, which was unable to buoy declines in Axel Springers news media division, which includes online sites such as Business Insider, and German dailies Bild and Die Welt. The company makes most of its revenue from online classified ads on sites like StepStone and Immowelt. Axel Springers classifieds unit earned 91 million ($101.8 million) for the first quarter, compared with 30 million (33.5 million) from its news media division and 19.2 million ($21.4 million) from marketing. advertisement advertisement The digital offerings share of segment revenues rose to 41.7%. The first-quarter results show that digital classifieds and digital journalism are delivering significant growth for Axel Springer, stated Dr. Mathias Dopfner, CEO of Axel Springer SE. He added: We will invest more heavily in the potential of growth companies in these areas in the future compared to previous years. Overall, Axel Springer reported a decline in first-quarter profits and lowered its revenue guidance (the company is selling vacation rental site @Leisure, which is expected to close in June). Axel Springer pointed to consolidation effects as one of the reasons for the profit declines. The company sold French womens site aufeminin last year. However, the digital news segments revenues were down 2.9%, compared to the first quarter in 2018, from 351.5 million ($393.2 million) to 341.2 ($381.7 million). The segments revenues declined by 1.6%. by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, May 8, 2019 Until recently, customers of Las Vegas Trail Riding allegedly had to contractually promise to refrain from posting negative reviews on sites like Yelp. The contracts also provided that violations of the policy would result in fines of at least $5,000, according to the Federal Trade Commission. The only allowance for a less than a 5 star review is through our own review system PeekPro, stated the contract, which was in effect from 2015 until at least May of 2018, according to the FTC. Las Vegas Trail Riding also banned customers from notifying the authorities if there was a discrepancy regarding the animals' care, according to the FTC. On Wednesday, the FTC accused Las Vegas Trail Riding and two other companies -- Pittsburgh-based Waldron Electric Heating and Cooling, and Braintree, Massachusetts-based National Floors Direct -- of violating a federal law by attempting to squelch online reviews. advertisement advertisement Form contracts from Waldron Electric Heating and Cooling allegedly required customers to agree to keep all terms private and confidential, and to refrain from filing complaints with the Better Business Bureau. National Floors Direct allegedly used standardized contracts that required people to agree not to publicly disparage or defame the store in any way or through any medium. The FTC alleged that all three companies ran afoul of the Consumer Review Fairness Act. That law, which took effect in March of 2017, invalidates standardized contractual provisions that restrict consumers' ability to post reviews. All three companies agreed to refrain from using non-disparagement clauses in standardized contracts in the future. They also agreed to inform people who previously signed contracts that the gag clauses were unenforceable. The FTC has previously accused companies of attempting to stifle reviews, but Wednesday marked the first time the agency brought cases that focused exclusively on alleged violations of the Consumer Review Fairness Act. by Alex Weprin , May 8, 2019 Licensed shows from media companies such as WarnerMedia and NBCUniversal make up a sizable majority of viewing on Netflix, according to new Nielsen data. Still, Netflix originals are beginning to break through, and the company has proven that it can drive viewership to its originals through promotion in its user interface. Nielsen released the data during a pre-upfront presentation to journalists in New York City. Nielsens SVOD content ratings found that of the top 20 most-watched shows on Netflix, licensed shows comprise the top six and eight of the top 10. In total, eight of the top 20 shows were Netflix originals. Among all viewers, 73% of viewing was of licensed content, with 27% of viewing comprising Netflix originals. Among the most-watched shows, there was a recurring theme: a sizable back catalog. advertisement advertisement The Office, with 208 episodes, led the pack, followed by Friends with 254 episodes and Greys Anatomy, NCIS and Criminal Minds, which had more than 300 episodes. Once people start viewing things, they tend to continue, Nielsen senior vice president of product leadership for media Brian Fuhrer said. It is not a surprise that shows that have a lot of episodes have a lot of viewing. The top Netflix original last year was Orange Is The New Black, which placed seventh overall. Ozark was the only other Netflix original to crack the top 10. Interestingly, there was a correlation between the age of the viewer and their consumption of Netflix originals. The older you get, the more you watch Netflix originals, the younger you are, you are seeing content on Netflix you think might be a Netflix original, he added. One of our colleagues said their child told them: 'I was checking out this new Netflix original called Friends, its really good. That is a phenomenon, where it comes out first, is where consumers perceive it to be originals. Still, Netflix seems eager to promote its own programming. Many of the top originals last year had fewer episodes than their licensed counterparts. [The Netflix homepage] is a very powerful bully pulpit, every time you turn it on they promote it, Fuhrer said. The point is, when you have that much real estate, and you go from one episode to the next, it tends to hold viewers longer. Fuhrer also showed some data that Nielsen compiled for WarnerMedia, as it weighed whether to sign a new deal with Netflix for Friends. The data looked at the audiences for friends on Netflix as compared to TV syndication and reruns on TBS, Paramount Network and Nick At Nite? The findings? There was little overlap between the people watching friends on TV, and those watching on Netflix. There was only about 2% overlap between the reruns on cable and those on Netflix, compared to a 10% overlap between the cable networks. Facial pain is common and often the result of headaches and injuries. However, other causes of facial pain include nerve conditions, jaw and dental problems, and infections. Facial pain can originate from a specific area of the face, or it may radiate from another part of the head. Doctors often categorize facial pain into one of several types, including: dental pain , which relates to problems with the teeth and gums , which relates to problems with the teeth and gums nerve pain , or neuralgia, which relates to conditions that affect the facial nerves , or neuralgia, which relates to conditions that affect the facial nerves temporomandibular pain , which relates to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the muscles of the jaw , which relates to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the muscles of the jaw vascular pain, which occurs due to issues with blood vessels and blood flow In this article, we explore some common causes of facial pain. We also discuss when to see a doctor, diagnosis, and self-care. Headaches Share on Pinterest Different types of headache can cause facial pain. There are many different types of headache, a number of which can also cause facial pain. Some of these headaches include: Ice pick headaches cause a sharp, stabbing pain. These bouts of intense pain typically last for around 3 seconds and can affect the temples, eye sockets, and sides of the head. cause a sharp, stabbing pain. These bouts of intense pain typically last for around 3 seconds and can affect the temples, eye sockets, and sides of the head. Cluster headaches usually occur very suddenly and can be extremely painful. They cause a burning pain around the eyes and temples that sometimes radiates toward the back of the head. Other symptoms can include a runny nose and red, swollen eyes. usually occur very suddenly and can be extremely painful. They cause a burning pain around the eyes and temples that sometimes radiates toward the back of the head. Other symptoms can include a runny nose and red, swollen eyes. Migraine headaches are sudden and severe and may only affect one part of the head. Around one-third of people with migraine also experience an aura before the physical pain starts. As well as visual and sensory disturbances, an aura can also cause tingling and numbness on one side of the face, body, or both. People who experience recurring headaches should consider seeing a doctor. Treatment varies depending on the type of headache but can include making suitable lifestyle changes and taking certain medications to prevent painful episodes and reduce symptoms. Injuries Facial pain can often relate to current or past injuries, particularly those that damage the nerves in the face. Examples of facial injuries can include cuts and blows from falls, impacts, violence, and accidents. Rarely, surgery to the face, such as from cosmetic procedures, can cause nerve damage that leads to facial pain. Symptoms of injuries to facial nerves can also include tingling, numbness, and even paralysis in or around the affected area. TMJ disorders The TMJ is where the jawbone, or mandible, connects to the skull. There are two TMJs, one on each side of the head. TMJ disorders is the general term for conditions that cause pain and movement problems in the jaw joint and muscles. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research , some estimates suggest that more than 10 million people in the United States have a TMJ disorder. Symptoms of a TMJ disorder can include : jaw pain that may radiate to the face, head, or neck stiffness in the jaw muscles difficulty opening and closing the mouth, which can include jaw locking an uncomfortable clicking, popping, or grinding when moving the jaw A person may find that the pain is worse while chewing. The jaw might also feel tender at the joint, even when it is not moving. Treatments for TMJ disorders depend on the severity of a persons symptoms, but they can include: taking over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription pain relievers trying stress reduction techniques wearing a mouth splint or bite guard undergoing surgery to correct jaw alignment Trigeminal neuralgia Trigeminal neuralgia, or tic douloureux, is a chronic pain disorder that affects the trigeminal nerve in the face. This nerve has three main branches that provide sensations to the scalp, forehead, cheeks, lips, and lower jaw. Trigeminal neuralgia usually affects only one side of the face, but some people can experience pain on both sides. The pain tends to come on suddenly and can range in nature from a constant aching or burning sensation to a severe stabbing pain. Performing certain movements or actions, such as eating, brushing the teeth, and applying makeup, can trigger a painful episode, as can having the wind blow on the face. These episodes may sometimes last for days or even weeks. They can become more frequent and more intense over time. Causes of trigeminal neuralgia can include: compression or pressure on the trigeminal nerve nerve damage from injuries, stroke, or facial surgery underlying medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis Treatments options for trigeminal neuralgia include: avoiding known triggers taking prescription medications, such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and botulinum toxin (Botox) injections undergoing surgery Dental abscess Share on Pinterest A dentist can help diagnose and treat a dental abscess. A dental abscess is a buildup of pus that can develop when bacteria infect the soft tissue of a tooth. These infections can occur when tooth decay or injuries that damage teeth allow bacteria to get inside the tooth. Abscesses can cause a throbbing pain that may radiate to jaw, face, and neck. Other symptoms can include: fever tender, swollen, and red gums loose teeth swelling in the face an unpleasant smell or taste in the mouth People who have symptoms of an abscess should see a healthcare professional as soon as they can. Abscesses can lead to more serious infections that spread to the jaw and other parts of the mouth. Treatment options for an abscess depend on the cause and severity of the infection but can include: taking antibiotics to kill the bacteria having a professional drain the abscess seeking tooth extraction or root canal treatment Sinusitis Sinusitis occurs when the sinuses become inflamed. The sinuses are the small cavities that sit behind the nose, cheekbones, and forehead. Sinusitis usually starts following a cold, but nasal allergies such as hay fever can also cause the sinuses to become inflamed. The inflammation inside the sinuses can cause blockages that lead to a buildup of mucus. Other symptoms of sinusitis can include: pain, pressure, and tenderness in the face, particularly around the nose, cheeks, and forehead a stuffy or blocked nose green or yellow mucus coming from the nose a reduced sense of smell facial pain and pressure, especially around the nose and eyes Sinusitis often clears up on its own without treatment. However, people whose symptoms last for at least 12 weeks may have chronic sinusitis. Treatment options include taking OTC pain relievers, using steroid nasal sprays, and trying salt water irrigations. Although sinusitis is most often due to a viral infection, a doctor may sometimes prescribe antibiotics if symptoms last 10 or more days or if they worsen. At this point, the doctor may suspect a bacterial infection. When a person has chronic sinusitis, a doctor may recommend surgery to open the sinus passages and facilitate drainage. Sialadenitis Sialadenitis is a rare condition in which the salivary gland in the mouth becomes infected and swollen. The infection typically affects the parotid gland in front of the ear or the submandibular gland beneath the chin. Sialadenitis can cause pain on one side of the mouth or face, near the infected gland. Other symptoms can include: fever and chills pus that drains into the mouth skin flushing near the infected gland swelling on one side of the face People with persistent mouth dryness or a blocked salivary gland are more likely to develop sialadenitis. However, there is not always an obvious cause. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to people with a bacterial infection. They may also recommend drinking plenty of fluids and consuming foods and drinks that stimulate saliva production, such as hard, sour candies and lemon juice. When to see a doctor People with severe, worsening, or persistent facial pain should speak to a doctor. Also, seek medical attention for symptoms that may indicate an infection, such as: fever redness or flushing severe facial or dental pain swelling unexplained fatigue Diagnosis Share on Pinterest A doctor may recommend an MRI scan to help diagnose the cause of facial pain. To diagnose facial pain, a doctor will usually begin by asking a person about their symptoms and medical history. They may also conduct a physical examination. To aid their diagnosis, the doctor may order imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, or an X-ray. They may also perform nerve conduction studies to determine how well the nerves in a persons face are working. Self-care People can usually treat mild facial pain at home. The effectiveness of self-care treatments depends on the underlying cause, but some suggestions include: wrapping an ice pack in a cloth or towel and applying it to the affected area for 1020 minutes several times per day taking OTC medication such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen to relieve pain keeping the head elevated to promote mucus and fluid drainage from the face to relieve discomfort from sinusitis gargling with salt water three times per day to help relieve dental pain Some people may also find complementary therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, and biofeedback beneficial for facial pain. According to a report by Bloomberg, Apple has started to finalise locations for its first retail store that is set to open in India soon. The report said that the company has 'redoubled its efforts' in India to open its first store in an upscale location. Pexels The first location is said to be in Mumbai and will probably be at a site similar to iconic locations such as Orchard Street in Singapore, Regent Street in London and Gift Avenue in New York. Currently, Apple sells its products via authorised partners only, as the company did not meet local manufacturing and sourcing requirements. Apple has now increased manufacturing in India and is currently in talks with the Government for a retail store, the report says. Wistron's factory application for a new $1 billion factory in India was recently approved by the country's IT ministry, which means Apple will soon have an additional manufacturing unit here in India. The new factory will be manufacturing Apple's iPhone 8, in addition to the iPhone SE, 6S, and AirPods. Additionally, the Foxconn project is also in progress, which could be commissioned to assemble the rest of the iPhone line-up including the new iPhone XS, XS Max and XR Pexels India is a very important market in the long term, Cook said after the company's earnings report last week. It's a challenging market in the short term, but we're learning a lot. We plan on going in there with sort of all of our might. Last month, Apple slashed prices for the iPhone XR and offered a price cut of Rs 17,000. The price cut resulted in good sale numbers for Apple's latest smartphone and it seems like Apple is gearing up for a far more competitive strategy. Source: Bloomberg People pass a flowerbed on a street in Rongcheng county, Xiongan New Area, Hebei province, on March 29, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua] Xiongan New Area in North China's Hebei province started its first round of land acquisition in Rongcheng county this year, according to its official Weibo account. Xiongan authority decided to carry out this year's first round of land acquisition in Rongcheng at a meeting on Tuesday after receiving a reply from the provincial authority, which represents the start of the land acquisition in the new area. Rongcheng natural resources bureau published the land acquisition notice at Hexi village of Dahe township and Gongzhuang village of Bayu township on Tuesday. The total collective land of the two villages, 158.86 hectares, will be acquired by the government for urban construction, news website ThePaper reported, and the compensation standard was set at 120,000 yuan ($17,710.87) per mu, or 1.8 million yuan per hectare. Villagers will be resettled through three means, offering cash, housing and social security, the notice said. If villagers have problems with the land right, compensation standard and the resettlement means, they can apply for a hearing at the bureau within five workdays. Chen Gang, Party chief of Xiongan, visited the two villages recently and he stressed that authorities should work actively and steadily in the land acquisition and resettlement, making people to live and work in peace and contentment. Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari's 8-day state visit to China has further consolidated China-Nepal relations, with both neighbors committed to cementing their multi-dimensional cooperation under the broader framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). During her visit, Bhandari expressed Nepal's strong willingness to be a proactive player of the BRI to achieve inclusive economic growth and prosperity back home. This is the first state visit of Nepal's president to its northern neighbor after it became a federal republic in 2008. It has taken "the ties of cooperative friendship and mutually beneficial partnership" between the two nations to newer heights in a fast-changing geo-political environment. According to the Nepali embassy in Beijing, China has affirmed its support to help Nepal achieve a "Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali," and to make Visit Nepal Year 2020 a success by encouraging more Chinese tourists to visit Nepal. Making reference to the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network, China conveyed its support for the development of infrastructure including cross-border railways. China's positive gesture has boosted the confidence of Nepal's government, which is striving to fulfill the development aspirations of its people following the conclusion of a prolonged transition. The two countries signed seven fresh agreements which are expected to accelerate connectivity, trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations. The accord on the protocol of the Transit and Transport Treaty is historic as it ended Nepal's dependence on India for international trade, elevating it from a land-locked to land-linked country in a real sense. The two countries inked the transit treaty three years ago and finalized its protocol in September 2018, allowing Nepal to use seven Chinese ports as a third country trade route. This landmark treaty has guaranteed Nepal's access to international waters through Chinese territory, which frees Nepal from a potential Indian blockade in the future. Nepal had endured at least four economic embargoes from India since the latter became independent in 1947. The protocol deal will also serve as a stepping-stone in boosting Nepal-China ties as well as Nepal's geopolitical profile in the region and beyond. Likewise, under the agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation, the Chinese government pledged a grant assistance of 1 billion yuan for the implementation of mutually agreed projects in the fields of livelihood improvement, post-disaster reconstruction and infrastructure. As Nepal is still in the reconstruction phase following the 2015 earthquake, Chinese fiscal support is very important for the rehabilitation of quake-affected people. China has provided aid to improving the living conditions of people living in the northern region of Nepal, promoting economic, social and cultural bonds between residents from either side of the border. This time the joint communique, issued after the conclusion of the Belt and Road Forum, has incorporated the Nepal-China Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network and Nepal-China cross-border railway, giving impetus to the construction of the proposed Kerung (Gyirong)-Kathmandu railway. This is the big achievement that Nepal made through its participation in the 2nd BRF. Nepal joined the BRI in May 2017 and the two countries agreed to set up the Trans-Himalayan Multi-Dimensional Connectivity Network during Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli's visit to China in June 2018. Addressing the 2nd BRF, President Bhandari said the BRI was emerging as a key driver for poverty alleviation, employment generation, infrastructure building and industrial transformation. She expressed her confidence that it would support the process of economic transformation in Nepal by expanding connectivity networks and supporting the country's economic integration into the global market. Nepal and China are in negotiations to pick development projects to be executed under the BRI framework. The Nepalese government says that a detailed project report (DPR) of the Kerung (Gyirong)-Kathmandu railway will be completed in the next five months. Bhandari's visit to China has helped consolidate ties between the two countries and push forward bilateral cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It is of special significance in the history of Nepal. Ritu Raj Subedi is Deputy Executive Editor of The Rising Nepal. Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn. If you would like to contribute, please contact us at opinion@china.org.cn. Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs Sia Anagnostopoulou met in Paris with France's Secretary of State for European Affairs, Amelie de Montchalin. During the working luncheon which was held at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, talks were held in an especially positive climate. Inter alia, the upcoming European elections were discussed, as well as the looming dangers due to the rise of the Far Right in Europe, along with specific issues of European interest such as the European prospects of the Western Balkans and immigration. JOURNALIST: Good morning, Sia Anagnostopoulou. You are the Greek Alternate Minister of Foreign Affairs, responsible for European Affairs in Alexis Tsipras administration. Thank you very much for being our guest on the occasion of your visit to France. The European elections are scheduled for 26 May. Theres actual distrust in your country, Greece. Is it reversible? S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Theres a problem in Europe; in the way we can inspire the people, get them to vote and show their trust in Europe. To get them to vote because Europe is their own playground, where they can lay claim to their future. It is a difficult situation. Despite the crisis in Greece, despite the political austerity imposed by the European institutions as well, the Greeks are not so much against Europe as one would imagine. Around 50% continue to be pro-European. So we must increase this rate and inspire the citizens to come and vote for Europe. JOURNALIST: That is a huge bet. I suggest now we take a look at an excerpt from TV5s Les Haut-Parleurs, a show that focuses on the problems of young people in Europe. It is an excerpt from Greece. Listen to what they have to say about Europe. [A story from Greece is screened as part of the show Les Haut-Parleurs on TV5] JOURNALIST: Europe places restrictions without offering anything great when we are in need. Thats how Alexandra feels. ALEXANDRA: Another issue I cannot understand is how can I feel European when I cannot have benefits that are considered self-evident in other EU countries. JOURNALIST: It is a bitter feeling shared by 50% of the Greeks. Only 54% believe that the country benefits from being a part of the EU. The rate is lower only among the Italians, who, anyway, have chosen to be governed by the extreme right. JOURNALIST: Were seeing that the extreme right is quite powerful in your country. The Golden Dawn, a party resembling Marine Le Pens party, the National Rally, seems to be ahead in the polls. Is this another side of the reality in these elections? S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Yes, certainly. It is a side of the reality in these elections and that is why they are crucial for Europe. On the one hand, theres the austerity. We have to be done with the austerity policies in Europe; to become more of a social state in Europe. You heard what the young people are saying: Europe is not giving us what it should. JOURNALIST: What Alexandra said in the story. S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Yes, Alexandra. Exactly. On the other hand, due to the austerity policies, due to the democratic deficit, the feeling of some that they cannot access Europe, that they cannot affect the European policies, the extreme right is on the rise. And this is something very serious. It is very dangerous because Europe has paid a high price due to the extreme right, fascism, Nazism. We do remember. It was not that long ago. JOURNALIST: Youre saying that this threat is real even in these days; the threat of the Golden Dawn, of the National Rally in France. Are you correlating them? S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Yes, of course. This real danger is actually in our backyard; it not a far-off danger. Seeing the rise [of the extreme right], seeing the British leaving Europe, this proves something. It is a warning sign. We should not shut our eyes. If Im going to say one thing to the people of Europe is for them to vote this time around. Our future depends on these elections. The future of all the European people. If we truly want to have countries with a social state, social claims, we have to lay claims at a European level. JOURNALIST: In France, for example, theres the Yellow Vest crisis, we are eventually witnessing the doubts of the people of Europe. We are also witnessing our young people, who, in Greece for example, were subject to the austerity measures. We are witnessing Greece bearing the weight of the refugee crisis without necessarily getting the help it would have hoped for from Europe. Consequently, Europe did not respond to all the incidents, did not keep up its end. S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Thats actually how it is. You said it very eloquently. Europe did not keep up its end with the citizens. Lets look at the mass exodus from southern European countries, Greece, Portugal and Spain. The exodus of young people towards other European countries because they cannot imagine a future in their own country. Lets look at the phenomenon of refugees and migrants. There was no solidarity on the part of Europe. As a consequence, the citizens are pulling away because they dont see Europe by their side in their everyday lives. Thats what politics is: being there in the everyday lives of citizens. You mentioned the claims of the Yellow Vests. In recent years, there has been disappointment on the part of society because they feel they have no access to power. The people are saying that decisions are made in Brussels; they cannot intervene, so they pull away, as they say. So extreme right parties are emerging with a made-up rhetoric that did not exist in the past. They are talking about a powerful state, a powerful nation-state; this vocabulary did not exist in the past. So instead of building the future, through these extreme right parties we are seeing a past that was never there anyway, and we are missing out on the future. That's why I want to tell the people of Europe that a vote in favour of the extreme right parties is tantamount to abstention from the future, to turning our backs on the future. That past does not exist. They aspire to restore a past that only exists in the realm of fantasy, rather than lay claim to the future. JOURNALIST: But Minister, were seeing that the issue of Europe has no place in a pre-election period when we are talking more about national issues. In France we are under the impression that it is a test for Emmanuel Macron. Europe is not interesting; it does not incite. S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Look, Mr. Simonin. It is normal to an extent. If we keep talking about Europe in extreme technocratic terms, how will we inspire the citizens to look at Europe? Europe has turned into an entirely technocratic rhetoric with incomprehensible language, instead of showing them that this Europe is our common ground for laying claim to our social life, our cultural life, our economic life and eventually our future. Consequently, there are difficulties. We, the politicians, must change the way in which we approach Europe. JOURNALIST: Thank you very much, Sia Anagnostopoulou, Greek Minister of European Affairs, for being with us. S. ANAGNOSTOPOULOU: Thank you very much. Flash A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Tuesday refuted U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's criticism over China's participation in Arctic affairs, stressing that China would not be absent on trans-regional and global issues concerning the Arctic. China can, and is ready to, play a constructive role on such issues, spokesman Geng Shuang told a press briefing, noting that the Arctic issues not only involve Arctic countries but also have global significance. "China will not interfere in the affairs that purely belong to the Arctic countries," said Geng. He stressed that China has always adhered to the principle of openness, cooperation and mutual benefits while taking part in Arctic affairs. "On the Arctic issue, China has always stressed the importance of scientific research, advocate environmental conservation, reasonable utilization, law-based governance and international cooperation," he said. "We are neither playing a geopolitical game nor making an exclusive small circle." China is willing to work with all sides to contribute to the peace, tranquility and sustainable development in the Arctic, according to the spokesperson. Pompeo said China appeared to have national security aims in the Arctic, which had to be watched closely, as he arrived in Finland for a meeting of the Arctic Council. The criticisms made by the U.S. official "were totally incorrect" and "had ulterior motives," said Geng. Flash South Korean President Moon Jae-in held phone talks with U.S. President Donald Trump Tuesday night over the Korean Peninsula issue, according to the presidential Blue House of South Korea. Moon and Trump talked over phone for 35 minutes from 10 p.m. local time (1300 GMT). During the phone talks, Moon and Trump exchanged opinions about ways to encourage the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to remain in the dialogue track for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and to resume the denuclearization negotiations as early as possible. They shared a view that it was "very effective" for the two governments to closely cooperate and tackle the DPRK's recent projectile launches in an appropriate manner. Following the DPRK's projectile firing, Trump tweeted that top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un "does not want to break his promise," noting that "deal (with DPRK) will happen." Meanwhile, Trump said South Korea's humanitarian food aid to the DPRK would be a very timely and positive action, expressing his support for the South Korean food aid plan. Moon and Trump also agreed to closely consult on the U.S. president's visit to South Korea in the near future. Flash U.S. President Donald Trump spoke over phone with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Tuesday about the recent developments in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), White House said in a statement. "The two leaders discussed recent developments regarding the DPRK and how to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization of the DPRK," the statement said, without offering more details. According to the presidential Blue House of South Korea, Moon and Trump talked over phone for 35 minutes and they shared a view that it was "very effective" for the two governments to closely cooperate and tackle the DPRK's recent projectile launches in an appropriate manner. Stephen Biegun, U.S. special representative for DPRK, is scheduled to visit Seoul from Thursday to Friday, meeting with South Korean officials on denuclearization issue, the State Department said last week. Several projectiles were launched on May 4 toward the northeast from the DPRK's east coast city of Wonsan for 21 minutes, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. The projectiles traveled some 70 to 200 km into eastern waters. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday noted in an interview with FOX News Sunday that U.S. objective of DPRK's moratorium of testing is "focused on intercontinental missile system," suggesting Pyongyang did not break its promise. Flash The U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called off his visit to Berlin due to "pressing issues", the U.S. Embassy in Berlin said on Tuesday. "Unfortunately, we must reschedule the Berlin meetings due to pressing issues. We look forward to rescheduling this important set of meetings. The secretary looks forward to being in Berlin soon," said a statement. During his trip in Germany, Pompeo had planned to meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas. Topics including Ukraine, Venezuela, Iran and Syria were to be discussed, according to Deutsche Presse Agentur. Maas confirmed the cancellation, adding he has made telephone call with Pompeo and showed understanding. "We need the tight wire to Washington. We have vital interest in cooperating on the urgent international issues closely with the Americans and representing the EU position," Maas said. Some local media said that the call-off might be a sign of the tense ties between Berlin and Washington, as the two countries were recently at odds on several issues, like the construction of Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline and the sanctions against Iran. Germany has been facing pressure over its support for the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline as the U.S. claimed it will increase Europe's dependence on Russian gas. Last week, the German government, along with EU, UK and France, issued a joint statement, expressing concerns over the U.S. decision to scrap sanction waivers for oil imports from Iran. Maas dismissed the speculations, saying "it is good to have Mike Pompeo in foreign office, so that we can discuss on these issues." Pompeo started his European tour on Monday attending an Arctic Council meeting in Finland, where he also had talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Pompeo is scheduled to travel to the UK on Wednesday. Flash Students escorted school bus in front of STEM School Highlands Ranch after a shooting on May 7, 2019. [Photo/VCG] An 18-year-old male student was killed and eight other students were injured in a shooting that occurred Tuesday afternoon at a charter school near Denver, capital of the U.S. western state of Colorado, local police confirmed. "It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that 1 student at the STEM School was killed in today's #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified," Douglas County Sheriff's Office tweeted about five hours after the fatal incident. Two suspects entered the school just before 2 p.m. local time (2000 GMT) and "got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations," according to Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock. "There were a number of students that were shot and injured," he said at a press briefing. He did not release the names of the victims and the suspects. Both suspects were arrested by policemen, who arrived at the scene in ten minutes, Spurlock said, adding that the investigators had recovered a handgun, but had no clue on the suspects' motive. He also announced that the school has been cleared before 5 p.m. local time (2300 GMT) and investigators are no longer looking for additional suspects. Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said the victims, who are all over 15 years, had gunshot wounds and were taken to three local hospitals. The Denver Post, a local newspaper, reported that at least four had been treated and released from hospitals by Tuesday evening. Nicholson-Kluth briefed reporters that the officers heard gunfire as they arrived and as they entered the building, saying "quite a few shots were fired." The incident occurred at STEM School Highlands Ranch, located about 32 km south from downtown Denver. There are about 1,850 students in the K-12 charter school. After hearing reports of the shooting, worried parents raced to the school to search for their children. They were redirected to a nearby recreation center to wait for reunions. Pictures posted online showed hundreds of parents crowded at the Northridge Recreation Center in Highlands Ranch, where students from the school were taken there by buses after the fatal incident. Many parents broke into tears when they found their children. Colorado Governor Jared Polis said in a tweet that the state is making an all out effort to assist the Douglas County Sheriff's Department secure the site and evacuate the students. "We are monitoring the situation in real time. The heart of all Colorado is with the victims & their families," he tweeted. After the shooting, U.S. President Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka, cancelled her scheduled Wednesday's trip to the Lockheed Martin facility in Littleton, 12 km north of Highlands Ranch. Flash U.S. President Donald Trump will discuss bilateral relations with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban next week in Washington, the White House said in a statement on Tuesday. Trump will welcome Orban at the White House on May 13, and the two leaders will discuss ways to deepen cooperation on a range of issues, including trade and energy, the statement said. The two leaders would also "explore opportunities to meet the national security responsibilities of the two countries and celebrate Hungary's 20th anniversary as a NATO member," according to the statement. The United States and Hungary recently have been increasing high-level interactions. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo paid a visit to Budapest in February, when he vowed to renew U.S. engagement with Hungary and strengthen its relations with the countries in Central and Eastern Europe. The two countries also signed a defense cooperation agreement in early April. The most dramatic view in Michigan more dramatic than Sleeping Bear Dunes, Pictured Rocks or the Detroit skyline is the view from the top of the Mackinac Bridge. From that aerial vantage point, high above the Straits of Mackinac, you can see the Upper Peninsula, the Lower Peninsula, the green cables of the iconic suspension bridge stretching out to connect the two landmasses, Mackinac Island with its historic fort, and several other islands, all in one sweeping, 360-degree view. Its a view that few get to see: Only 281 people (not including those who work on the bridge) got to go to the top in 2018, according to Melissa DeKeyser of the Mackinac Bridge Authority. This tally includes 50 members of the general public; the rest were well-connected VIPs. Access is tightly restricted, but it is possible for anyone to visit ... if youre lucky. Getting to the top is an adventure: It involves climbing through a narrow hatch in the side of one of the bridges two towers and then maneuvering through the maze-like interior. Theres an elevator inside the tower (original to when the bridge was built in 1957) thats barely big enough to fit a guide plus two people crammed together, but it doesnt go all the way up so youll have to climb 40 feet of ladders before finally wiggling through a suck-in-your-gut opening at the top, nearly 550 feet above the water and 350 feet above the roadbed and traffic below. If youre claustrophobic, you probably dont want to attempt this. Thats advice from Roger Jarema of Boyne Falls, who did the tower tour in July 2017 with his son. But theres a sturdy guardrail up top good news for those with a fear of heights. And theres no tower sway or vibrations from traffic. Interested? Then youll have to act quick. Each year, the Mackinac Bridge Authority selects 25 nonprofit organizations and gives them each a tower tour certificate that can be used as a prize in a fundraiser raffle or charity auction. Winning one of these coveted certificates (good for two people) is the only way a member of the general public can get to the top of the bridge. Nearly all the tower tour certificates for the 2019 season are already claimed or set to be auctioned off at private events. There are, however, two opportunities left that are open to everyone: The Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse Society in Huron County is selling raffle tickets for $25 each or five for $100. Organizer Sandra Affholter estimates theyve sold about 275 tickets thus far theyll sell up to 1,000 max. Visit www.pointeauxbarqueslighthouse.org to enter. The drawing will be held May 18. You dont need to be present to win, but you must send payment in advance to purchase tickets. (They arent set up to accept online payment.) If youd rather not rely on random chance in a drawing, the East Lansing Educational Foundation is holding an online auction from May 6-20 at www.32auctions.com/elef Winning a Mackinac Bridge tower tour at auction likely wont be cheap. The winning bid at the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum auction in Naubinway (in the Upper Peninsula) was $2,700. If youre lucky enough to win the raffle or auction, youll have to coordinate with the Mackinac Bridge Authority to schedule the tour on a weekday from May 1 through Oct. 15, 2019, and sign a liability waiver. No minimum age requirement, but you must be 56 or taller and weigh at least 80 pounds. They dont have a maximum height or weight limit but there is a 16 x 12 hole (with a circumference of about 45 inches) to pass through while climbing a ladder. Dawn Laway did the tour in October 2014 after winning an auction in support of Bishop Baraga Catholic School in Cheboygan. Shes not normally bothered by heights but when you peer over the edge of the railing and look down that got my stomach a little bit, she said. Going into the tour her 64 tall husband Mike was concerned about the tight spaces, but he squeezed through it fine. Tours are normally to the top of the south tower (which is better for taking pictures since the sun is always behind when looking at the bridges center span and north tower 3,800 feet away), but tours in 2019 will be to the top of the north tower since the south tower is unavailable due to a painting project. The whole experience generally lasts about an hour, with a maximum allowed stay of 10 minutes up top. (Thats according to the official rules, but theyre usually pretty lenient on time, especially if its a nice day and a freighter is about to pass underneath the bridge.) Being from Cheybogan, Dawn has been across the bridge numerous times but seeing the view from the top was different. We talked about it for so long afterward because it was one of the best things Ive ever experienced, Dawn said. The Mackinac Bridge was the longest suspension bridge in the world when it was built, and at just 28 feet shy of 5 miles, it is still the longest suspension bridge in the United States today (when measuring overall length, including causeways). It has the third-longest center span, behind the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in New York and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The bridge is part of I-75, which runs from the border with Canada to Miami, Florida. MIDDLETOWN Saidiya Hartman, a Columbia University scholar renowned for her creative combinations of historical research, will deliver the address at Wesleyan Universitys 187th commencement May 26. Hartman, noted for her critical theory, and fictional narrative in exploring the afterlife of slavery, as well as its negative effects on the life chances of black Americans, Hartman is a 1984 Wesleyan graduate, according to a press release. The ceremony will take place on Andrus Field in the center of Wesleyans campus at 11 a.m. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Wesleyans historic Vanguard Class of 1969 and the founding of the universitys African American Studies program, the release said. Hartman is the author of Scenes of Subjection: Terror, Slavery, and Self-Making in Nineteenth-Century America (1997) and Lose Your Mother: A Journey Along the Atlantic Slave Route (2007), according to Wesleyan. As a Guggenheim Fellow, she also completed Wayward Lives, Beautiful Experiments (2019), which examines life in black slums at the turn of the 20th century; and she is currently at work on a new book project, N Folio: An Essay on Slavery and the Archive. Her published essays on film, photography, and feminism have been widely anthologized. Wesleyan will present honorary degrees to Hazel V. Carby, a leading scholar on issues of race, gender, and ethnicity who previously taught at Wesleyan and now teaches at Yale University, and the Rev. Edwin C Sanders II, Wesleyan class of 1969 and the founder of the Metropolitan Interdenominational Church in Nashville, Tennessee. I am proud to note that all three recipients have deep Wesleyan roots and distinguished careers dedicated to better understanding and improving the lives of African Americans through scholarship, creativity and service, President Michael S. Roth said in a prepared statement. They helped establish and expand African American Studies at Wesleyan, which our faculty voted to award full department status this past fall as a means of carrying forward this important work. MIDDLETOWN A Portland man was held in lieu of $250,000 bail after police alleged he was using a 16-year-old girl to hide $3,600 worth of fentanyl as part of his drug sale operation. Angel Gonzalez, 35, of Marlborough Street, was taken into custody May 3 as officers executed a search warrant on his person and an apartment on Liberty Street they believed he was using to deal fentanyl in the city, police said. Gonzalez, 35, was grabbed after he left the Liberty Street apartment, officers said. He was carrying $1,650, including three $20 bills that had been used as part of a controlled buy with a confidential informant; eight Oxycondin pills; a cellphone; and a key ring with keys, police said. Officers also executed a search warrant at the Liberty Street apartment where he was allegedly selling drugs, reports said. Police had to force their way into the second-floor apartment that was slated to be searched because the occupants didnt answer the door, reports said. When they got inside they found two people, one of whom admitted Gonzalez had been staying in the apartment on and off and paying the privilege with heroin, police said. The man confirmed Gonzalez had been using the apartment to make illegal drug sales at least three or four times a day, police said. A small amount of white powder believed to be fentanyl was found in the apartment along with two empty wax paper folds used to store the drug and a digital scale that also contained white powder, police said. The third-floor residents of the building denied they had any knowledge of Gonzalezs activities, but when they agreed to a search, an officer used a key from Gonzalezs key ring to open a safe that was in the bedroom closet of a 16-year-old girl, reports said. The safe contained 360 bags of suspected fentanyl and a bag of jewelry that was determined to owned by the residents, police said. Gonzalez admitted that he was paying the 16-year-old $50 to hide the drugs, police said. He was charged with two counts of possession of narcotics with intent to sell, two counts of possession of narcotics and risk of injury to a child. CROMWELL Residents this week overwhelmingly approved the $51.4 million 2019-20 budget. The Board of Finance then gave them a gift of sorts: no increase in town taxes. The number of residents who voted was slightly higher than last year: 304 people cast their vote during eight hours of voting in the high school gymnasium while 10 residents voted by filing out absentee ballots. (An 11th absentee ballot was rejected.) That is 3.1 percent of those eligible to vote. The $51.4 million budget was divided into three categories for residents to vote on: general government, education, and debt service. The $16.95 million general government budget was approved 234 to 77, according to numbers compiled by registrars of voters Bonnie Anderson and Alice Kelly and provided by Town Clerk Joan Ahlquist. The $30.70 million education operating budget was approved by a vote of 225 to 87. The debt service budget was approved by a vote of 249 to 62. General government is the non-education portion of the budget: the town government departments, police, public works and the Cromwell Belden Public Library. Bonded debt or debt service is the money owed on previously approved large-scale projects such as school construction. After reviewing the vote totals on Wednesday, Town Manager Anthony J. Salvatore said, I am extremely pleased and thankful for the support of the residents and taxpayers. These vote totals indicate their approval of the budgets we have put together, he said. The Board of Finance met in the high schools library/media center following the vote to act upon a number of issues, including allocating the fund balance and setting the tax rate for the coming year. Board Chairman John A. Jack Henehan was away on business, so vice chairman Julius C. Neto took his place leading the meeting. Director of Finance Marianne Sylvester proposed transferring $489,000 from the fund balance, or savings account, to the capital non-recurring account to pay for a number of projects, including road repairs and the on-going expansion and renovation of the library. However, board member Edwin A Maley Jr., instead proposed nearly doubling the allocation to $879,000 and applying it to cover the 2.83 percent increase in the budget. Doing so would eliminate the need to increase the tax rate by 0.27 mills. Sylvester pointed out bond-rating agencies such as Standard and Poors significantly frown upon using fund balance to off-set a mill rate increase. A press release dated May 6 and posted on the town website quotes S&P as saying: Cromwell's budgetary flexibility is very strong, in our view, with available fund balance in fiscal 2018 of 22% of operating expenditures, or $11.7 million. Maley, who has been a member of the finance board off and on for 20 years, was unmoved by Sylvesters comment, saying the residents of Cromwell have been over-taxed for years. Sylvester was also concerned that re-allocating the nearly $900,000 as Maley proposed could reduce fund balance below 15 percent of the budget. That in turn could jeopardize the towns Triple AAA bond rating, which was awarded to the town in 2014 and which allows it to borrow money at a premium rate. Because of that Triple-A rating, we can go the market to sell bonds (for major projects and be sure we are getting the best rate, Salvatore said. The town believes in keeping fund balance above 15 percent because it has been presented to us as a best practice, based on the judgment of GFOA (Government Finance Officers Association), bond counsel and Standard & Poors, one of the three bond-rating agencies, Salvatore added. The May 6 release also notes S&P: assigned its 'AAA rating and stable outlook to Cromwell, Conn.'s series 2019 general obligation (GO) bonds and affirmed its 'AAA rating, with a stable outlook, on the town's existing GO debt. The rating reflects our view of the town's very strong economy, supported by a wealthy property tax base and high income, coupled with access to the Hartford metropolitan statistical area (MSA). In addition, Cromwell's maintenance of very strong budgetary flexbility, with available reserves averaging more than 18% of expenditures during the past three fiscal years, due to positive financial performance and strong management further supports our view of the rating. Keeping an adequate fund balance is looked upon as a necessity in the event a town suffered a catastrophic incident such as a hurricane or tornado. The board voted 3-3 on Maleys proposal, which meant it did not pass. Sylvester then suggested splitting the difference between the amount she had recommended and the sum Maley was seeking. But instead the board, led by members Amanda Drew and Daniel Kelly, discussed revisiting the Maley proposal. Drew who had voted against the proposal said, Im torn, in large part because of the gap that exists between the time the town acts on its budget and when the General Assembly will act on the state budget. Whats more, We cant even trust the numbers the state gives us, she said. Kelly, who had voted for Maleys proposal, said he believe the town has being doing a nice job taking care of our needs. But, he said, he believed the board should support Maleys proposal. Upon reflection, Neto was moved to change his vote and support the Maley proposal. Sylvester and Salvatore said they could live with the proposal - if it does not become a regular occurrence and if the board does not let the fund balance fall below 15 percent, so it then passed. On Wednesday, Neto said he was pleased with the process the board had adopted, working collaboratively to review a range of options. From great discussions come good decisions, he said. Western New England University SPRINGFIELD, Mass Western New England University students and Cromwell residents Taylor J. Winkler, an accounting major; and Jennifer Louisa Arling, a marketing communication/advertising major; were among 37 students inducted April 18 into Beta Gamma Sigma, the honor society of AACSB-accredited business schools, at a ceremony conducted by the Western New England Chapter officers. Beta Gamma Sigma is a national honor society for business majors at schools accredited by AACSB International. Students are selected from the top 7 percent of juniors, top 10 percent of seniors and to 20 percent of graduate students. Candidates must have completed two semesters of study at the university to qualify. Curry College MILTON, Mass. Paulina Adams, a graduating student who has been named to the deans list for all four years at Curry College, was among 88 honored recently for demonstrating academic excellence. To qualify, students must earn a 3.30 grade-point average, no incomplete grades, and none grade lower than a C for the semester. NYIT School of Health Professions OLD WESTBURY, N.Y. Emily Hunter of Cromwell was among the students from NYIT School of Health Professions inducted May 2 into The Alpha Eta Honor Society, the national scholastic honor society for allied health students. East Catholic High School MANCHESTER Middletown resident Irene Soteriou was recently honored as a Summa Scholar, one of seven East Catholic High School students who received medals at the Archdiocesan Center at St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield. Presented annually by the Archdiocese of Hartford Office of Education, Evangelization and Cathechesis, the awards recognize the students, parents and teachers who have committed exceptional time, energy, care, and love in the pursuit of superior academic achievement. Students honored were in the top five percent of their graduating class, based on cumulative grade-point average from freshman year to the close of the first semester senior year. Northern Vermont University JOHNSON, Vt. The following Northern Vermont University students were named to the deans list for the fall 2018 semester: Cromwell resident Daniel Mozzicato, East Hampton resident Zachary Johnson, and Middlefield resident Tucker Root. Deans list students must achieve between a 3.50 and 3.99 semester grade-point average. Worcester Academy WORCESTER, Mass. Worcester Academys honor roll for semester one of the 2018-19 school year includes postgraduate student Nico Cavaliere of Middletown, who earned first honors. Georgia Institute of Technology ATLANTA Jonathan Dolan of Portland made the deans list for the fall 2018 semester at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The designation is awarded to undergraduate students who have a 3.0 or higher academic average for the semester. Manchester Community College MANCHESTER Manchester Community College announce its roster of students achieving presidents and deans lists recognition for the fall 2018 semester. The presidents list recognizes the exceptional scholarship of full- and part-time students who earn a 4.0 or A grade-point average in their courses. Full-time students enrolled in 12 credits or more and who have earned a grade-point average of 3.4 with no withdrawals or incomplete grades in that semester are eligible for the list. Full-time presidents list Sheron A. Scoffone, Middletown Part-time presidents list Sylvia C. Murray, Cromwell; Katelyn M. Boris, Durham; Joanna Dabkowski, Michael N. Kelsey, Regina M. Looby, Raymond T. Morassini, Mark H. Perkins, Arthur E. Robinson and Lucy S. Sceery, all of East Hampton; Andrew M. Leary and Karina R. Walcott, both of Middletown; Michael A. Poitras, Old Saybrook; and Mikayla D. Coelho, Westbrook Full-time deans list Jennifer A. Mrowka, Chester; Courtney Holzer and Gintaute Rozgaite, both of Cromwell; Siera J. Murray, East Haddam; Chase R. Arnold, Jarrett N. DeBowsky, Peyton M. DeBowsky, Devan M. Gareau, Sharon E. Harris, and Jinda Vogel, all of East Hampton; Rebecca L Peterson, Ivoryton; Camilo A. Ayala-Chica, Carlos A. Beltran, Kayla M. Cadieux, Cameron A. Stearns-Bloch, and Zachary V. Weeks, all of Middletown; Cody A. Walden, Old Saybrook; and Brenna Currier and Christopher M. Veneziale, Portland. Isaak Olson was two months from graduating in 2014 when he disclosed that his fiancee had given birth several months earlier... BERGEN, NORWAY -- Is it a Russian spy? Is it a therapy animal? Is it just a runaway SeaWorld mammal finally free to take on the high seas? These are the theories swirling after a happy-go-lucky Beluga was spotted on Norway's northern coastline in Tufjord over a week ago. The whale, originally found wearing a harness with "Equipment St. Petersburg" printed on it, as well as a mounted camera, is not believed to be in the region for malign purposes, and has reportedly been spotted swimming up to Norwegian residents. But Norwegians will now face a difficult decision: Do they foster the Beluga, or do they 'free willy'? (The whale has actually been nicknamed "Hvladimir" by the Scandinavian media). "The concern is ... what do we do with it? Because it's 'ours' now," said a senior officer with the Royal Norwegian Navy, speaking on background. Military.com spoke with officials here as part of a trip organized by the Atlantic Council, a Washington D.C.-based think tank. The officer provided remarks on background in order to speak freely on various subjects. The officer, speaking from a Norwegian perspective, said he hopes an animal conservation organization comes to the defense of the whale, because it could endanger itself if it heads toward high-trafficked waterways on its swims. While aquatic mammals have historically been used by militaries for tasks like mine detection and harbor clearance, the Royal Norwegian Navy doesn't seem interested in training the whale or pressing it into service. Nor have officials given any indication of plans to 'interrogate' the creature. The officer, who said he's previously worked with porpoises in the military, although did not say to what extent, said that training with these animals has often proved unsuccessful, especially when military-grade sonar is in use. He added other militaries have seen some training successes, but in more limited roles, such as ocean-floor mine search. Another senior naval official said he found the SeaWorld theory intriguing, because it's plausible the Beluga traveled into the North Atlantic Strip using the Gulf Stream current. The official also noted that the harness didn't feature any Cyrillic lettering, which is typical for Russian equipment. While it has been reported that there may be whale and dolphin training centers in St. Petersburg, Florida, Seaworld is nearly 25 miles away in Tampa. Locals believe the whale, originally discovered by fishermen, has now moved to nearby Hammerfest. A recent viral video showed a Beluga retrieving a woman's iPhone after it fell into the water near the harbor there. It's unclear, though, if that whale was Hvladimir. -- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @oriana0214. House members moved Wednesday to accelerate extending disability benefits to "blue water" Vietnam veterans and expand eligibility to more troops, including those who served in the Korean demilitarized zone in the late 1960s. A bill proposed by the House Veterans Affairs Committee would direct the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide disability compensation for veterans who served on Navy ships off Vietnam and have been diagnosed with one of 14 diseases presumed related to Agent Orange exposure. The bill, H.R. 299, now goes to the House for a vote. Members of the Senate, meanwhile, are considering similar legislation proposed by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-New York. The legislation delineates the affected geographic regions off the coast, adds eligibility to troops who served in the Korean DMZ between September 1967 and 1971, and requires the VA to identify U.S. bases in Thailand where the defoliant Agent Orange was used. It also would extend benefits to children of veterans who have spina bifida as a result of a parent who was exposed to Agent Orange while serving in Thailand. Related content: A federal court ruled in January that the VA wrongly denied disability benefits to Blue Water Navy veterans. The decision in favor of the defendant, Alfred Procopio Jr., who served on the aircraft carrier Intrepid in Vietnam and later was diagnosed with diabetes and prostate cancer, potentially extends health care benefits and compensation to thousands of similarly diagnosed veterans. VA officials had denied the claims of Procopio and ship-based sailors and Marines, saying the scientific research does not support a connection between their service and exposure to Agent Orange. The cost of extending the benefits to roughly 90,000 potentially affected veterans would be as much as $5 billion over 10 years, the VA noted. Lawmakers said Wednesday that legislation is needed to protect veterans who may be eligible for disability compensation. VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said the department will not appeal the ruling in the federal case, but House members said they wanted to make sure the ruling is applied. "We need to ensure that blue water veterans are protected in the event that Procopio is appealed," said committee Chairman Rep. Mark Takano, D-California. "This proposal is the clearest and quickest route to delivering benefits to these deserving veterans." Last year, the House unanimously approved a Blue Water Navy veterans bill, but the legislation died in the Senate when a vote was blocked in the final days of the last Congress. "It's unclear how the VA plans to implement the Procopio decision. This [bill] would help remove any confusion over which veterans served in offshore in Vietnam. It would also help veterans who exposed outside of Vietnam," said Rep. Phil Roe of Tennessee, the ranking Republican on the committee. Veterans who served in the Vietnam War receive health care and disability compensation if they have been diagnosed with one of several illnesses presumed to be connected to exposure to Agent Orange and other defoliants. This compensation is usually awarded to those who served on the ground and inland waterways of Vietnam. But blue water veterans -- those who served in ships up to 12 miles off the coast -- weren't considered to have been exposed. The veterans and their advocates have argued, however, that those troops were exposed because their ships used runoff-contaminated seawater in their desalination plants and vessels transported Agent Orange to the war zone. The federal ruling allows former service members diagnosed with any of the presumptive illnesses related to Agent Orange to bypass a lengthy claims process that required them to provide proof that they were exposed. Wilkie said the VA is considering how to award and pay for benefits for these veterans. -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime. The next generation of Canadian sailors has grown up with phones in their hands, and they're not likely to give up their connectivity for life on the high seas. When working with industry partners designing the technology needed on future Royal Canadian Navy ships, leaders are putting internet connection high on the list, Rear Adm. Casper Donovan, director of the navy's general future ship capabilities, said Tuesday. "We have sailors who've grown up in a digital world -- they are digital," Donovan said at the annual Sea-Air-Space expo near Washington, D.C. "... When they embark on a Canadian surface combatant and we tell them to lock up their phone, they won't just go 'OK.' "They won't join the navy," he said. The Royal Canadian Navy only recently lifted its ban on Wi-Fi at sea. Last year, a sailor making a FaceTime call with family members using ship Wi-Fi made national news. Vice Adm. Ron Lloyd, head of the Royal Canadian Navy, called the service's strict rules about stowing cell phones away while at sea "draconian," according to CBC News. "There are other navies that operate with NATO that have Wi-Fi in far more spaces than we do," Lloyd said. "And we're saying, 'No you can't have it aboard' -- period? That's crazy." Donovan acknowledged that opening up Wi-Fi networks doesn't come without concern. Cybersecurity remains a top priority, he said, but it must not stop the Royal Canadian Navy from making technological progress. "What we were seeing from a Royal Canadian Navy aspect is that [we're told] we can't do that digital thing, can't put Wi-Fi on this ship, we can't put anything in the cloud ... because of cybersecurity," he said. But the world is changing quickly, and the military must adapt, he added. "As far as cybersecurity goes, we've got to work through it," Donovan said. "We have to take that nut, and we have to crack it." -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. A Navy command master chief who instructed sailors to "clap like we're in a strip club" ahead of a speech from the vice president and then tendered his resignation in the blowback that followed is getting support from national political and media figures. Command Master Chief Jonas Carter, senior enlisted sailor aboard the carrier Harry S. Truman, made the remark when Vice President Mike Pence visited the ship April 30. It was heard and reported by members of the media who were present for Pence's visit, and Truman officials quickly issued a statement condemning it as inappropriate. The Truman's commanding officer, Capt. Nick Dienna, announced Tuesday in a lengthy statement on the carrier's official Facebook page that Carter was stepping down and retiring, bringing his 30-year career to a close. "Master Chief Carter took every tasking on with a fervent heart, a broad smile and a true sense of purpose," Dienna wrote. "He left no doubt as to what kind of leader he is, or the kind of leader he wanted us all to be." The news of Carter's resignation drew statements of amazement and disappointment from figures on the national stage. Related content: "Own it, apologize for it but you should not have to resign," Jeb Bush, 43rd governor of the state of Florida and former presidential candidate, wrote on Twitter. "Dang, we are living in an uptight world. Thank you for your service." Other prominent voices -- many of them politically conservative -- echoed the sentiment. "You've got to be kidding. The Navy is forcing a Command Master Chief to resign for...this? C'mon," tweeted Bill Kristol, founder of the recently defunct conservative magazine The Weekly Standard and director of the advocacy group Defending Democracy Together. Jay Nordlinger, senior editor of another definitive conservative voice, National Review magazine, kept it simple: "Oh, come on," he tweeted. Other readers also added their thoughts, most of them in defense of Carter, saying he should not have had to lose his career over the eyebrow-raising remark. A spokeswoman for the Truman, Lt. Cmdr. Laura Stegherr, confirmed to Military.com that Carter had opted of his own accord to resign, rather than being asked to do so. The decision to accept the resignation, however, may be evidence of renewed pressure on the Navy to further professionalize and to present itself as an organization that is welcoming to all, particularly as the services continue to battle sexual assault in the ranks and struggle to recruit and retain women. Add to that the public nature of the event and its timing, coming in front of the national media and just before the vice president spoke. The apparent result: a career-ending perfect storm. One retired Navy chief says it's also a sign of generational change: What was commonplace behavior several decades ago no longer flies, and those with careers that span decades may struggle to adapt to the current climate. "When I first joined the military, there weren't many females; things were a little different," said Lowell Heath, treasurer for the National Chief Petty Officers Association and a former senior chief petty officer who retired in 1992. "However, when I became a maintenance chief, I had 200 people working for me. It was a combination of men and women, sailors, Marines, civilians -- a mixed pot. I tried not to talk like that." Heath, whose daughter served 26 years in the Navy and whose grandson now serves, said he has observed the changes over time even in his own family. While his daughter used crass and salty language on and off the job -- "you had to do that, for self-preservation," he said -- he has noted his grandson does not. "This Navy now, I don't know how many sailors even go to strip clubs," he said. "They even frown on drinking." Heath allowed he might be more reticent than most. But he wasn't outraged at the consequences for Carter, only noting that he had observed many worse comments and actions go unpunished over the course of his career. "I've seen some things that commanders and commanding officers have done that were totally outrageous," he said. "Unfortunately, when they get caught, they get penalized." -- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck. The insider attacks that killed a senior enlisted soldier and a corporal in a new Army special-purpose unit were initially devastating to morale. But the events ended up strengthening members' resolve to work even more closely with the Afghans they trained, the general in charge said Wednesday. "Continuing the mission was the best thing we could do" to honor Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Bolyard, 42, of Thornton, West Virginia, and 20-year-old Cpl. Joseph Maciel, of South Gate, California, said Brig. Gen. Scott Jackson, commander of the 1st Security Force Assistance Brigade, or SFAB. The deaths of Bolyard and Maciel in the so-called "green on blue" attacks last year were "tragic to us internally," Jackson said at a Pentagon briefing on the unit's nine-month deployment to Afghanistan last year. But, he said, the soldiers knew going in that such incidents were possible. Jackson said the unit took appropriate safety measures, but had to accept risks in terms of balancing security against the need to get out with the Afghans at remote locations. Related content: "It didn't derail the mission," he said, adding that the relationship with their Afghan partners was ultimately stronger. The briefing by Jackson and other officers and enlisted members of the 1st SFAB gave insight into how U.S. troops, and the Afghan security forces, have responded to insider attacks. A total of nine U.S. troops died in Afghanistan last year, according to the Defense Department, and at least three were believed to have been the victims of insider attacks by members of the Afghan military and police. Past attacks have led other former coalition members, including France, to withdraw their troops from Afghanistan. Capt. Gerard Spinney, team leader of 1st Battalion, 1st SFAB, said that he was in Tarin Kowt in Afghanistan's Uruzgan province when Maciel, an infantry soldier with the 3rd Infantry Division who was assigned to security for the SFAB, was killed and two other U.S. troops were wounded in an insider attack, allegedly by a member of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces. The soldiers who provide force protection to advise-and-assist missions against the potential for insider attacks have come to be known as "Guardian Angels," officials said. Spinney said Maciel was considered a member of the SFAB team. Immediately after the incident, the commander of a local Afghan kandak, or battalion, came to him, he added. The commander was not directly in charge of the alleged killer, but "he was adamant, he was angry, he was determined on the need to rid the [Afghan] unit of anything like this," Spinney said. "He wanted to make us feel safer," Spinney said of the commander. Together, they identified security improvements, and eventually "they took care of us." The SFAB concept was developed by the Army to take more experienced enlisted and officer personnel and form them into a unit trained at Fort Benning, Georgia, for the advise-and-assist mission. Bolyard's death last September in Logar province, along with the wounding of another soldier, was a major setback for the SFAB teams, and it took coordination with the Afghans to get back on track, said Command Sgt. Maj. Christopher Gunn. Bolyard had at least seven combat deployments and was a recipient of six Bronze Stars, two of them with combat "V" device. Jackson said the SFAB teams pressed the Afghans "to understand the impact that those kinds of green-on-blue-type incidents can have to a strategic partnership. They take it seriously, and they were ready to make the necessary changes" on security. During the nine-month deployment by about 800 personnel, the SFAB teams worked with more than 30 kandaks and 15 Afghan brigades, according to an SFAB handout. Much of the work involved improving logistics and resupply for Afghan forces, Spinney said, but the SFAB teams also focused on helping the Afghan forces act independently. Spinney said his "biggest takeaway" from his time in Afghanistan was the increased ability of Afghan soldiers "to achieve tactical success without us accompanying them." -- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com. It took two cranes and a flatbed truck to deliver it, but sailors and other spectators got an up-close look at the new air- and missile-defense radar being added to Navy ships. Raytheon's SPY-6 next-generation scalable radar system was on display at this year's Sea-Air-Space expo outside Washington, D.C. The radar was transported from Portsmouth, Rhode Island, and was configured for setup on the Navy's new guided-missile destroyers. The service recently tested the new system at its Pacific missile range, and the results were "eye watering," said Mike Mills, Raytheon's SPY-6 program director. "It's 100 times more sensitive than the existing SPY-1. It gives you that much more range, and that means the Navy can counteract that much quicker," he said. Much of what the system can pick up remains classified, Mills said. But as threats become more complex, they're tougher to detect; SPY-6 can help the Navy keep its edge, he added. "This radar now is able to give that capability back to the Navy that they're able to track and detect those [threats] as early as possible to combat that," he said. "That's really what it gives the Navy back." SPY-6 is built using individual 2-square-foot building blocks called Radar Modular Assemblies (RMAs). The one that will be built on the Flight III DDGs is made up of 37 RMAs. Different ships can go smaller with 24- or nine-block setups. The Navy's Flight IIA destroyers will receive the 24-block model to help keep those ships in the fight. Since the service plans to use this radar technology for the next 40 years, Raytheon built a system that can be updated accordingly. "As we work with the Navy to identify different threats that they need to guard against, from a software perspective, we can make those changes," said Ian Davis, a Raytheon spokesman. Each RMA can also be easily removed if it needs to be repaired or replaced. That is good news for maintainers who work on the older SPY-1 system, which requires a lot of tuning in order to maintain its performance, Mills said. "Here, it's already tuned when we send it out into the fleet," he said. "If they ... do any replacement, they just need two tools. Since there's a lot of tooling involved in the legacy [system], that was something we looked at when developing this, to make it really low maintenance and really easy for sailors." Raytheon has started delivering its new systems to the shipyards working on below-deck equipment for the first of the Flight III DDGs currently under construction, Mills said. -- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @ginaaharkins. ARLINGTON, Virginia -- The Trump administration plans to continue efforts to address military spouse unemployment and underemployment through a White House summit of business leaders slated for May 14, Karen Pence, wife of Vice President Mike Pence, told a group of military spouses Wednesday. Pence, who over the last 15 months has backed a series of White House efforts to highlight military spouse employment challenges, spoke to a group of several hundred spouses at the Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year town hall here. "I'm here today, and I'm excited to pay a debt of gratitude to what I call our 'home front heroes,' to all of our military spouses for your invaluable contributions to our nation," she said. Pence said the group of leaders from 46 businesses will convene next week so she can "ask their help in addressing the high rate of unemployment and underemployment." Estimates of the military spouse unemployment rate range from about 16 percent to 24 percent nationwide. "I mean, that is just not right," she said. "We believe that it is imperative that we support our military spouses ... because you play just as an important a role as your spouse." President Donald Trump last year issued an executive order directing federal agencies to increase military spouse hiring. The White House has also backed programs to assist spouses with transferring professional licenses across state lines, an effort previously championed by officials with former President Barack Obama's Joining Forces initiative. Pence said she chose the spouse employment issue as a central focus after conducting listening sessions with military spouses at U.S. bases worldwide. "I hope you know we didn't just jump in and say, 'Oh, we're going to solve military spouse problems,'" she said. "We really felt that it was important to go around and listen to spouses. ... I just want you to know, after listening to some of the struggles and some of the great things that are happening to military spouses, we see you, we thank you, we appreciate you and we stand with you." -- Amy Bushatz can be reached at amy.bushatz@military.com. Key Select Mineral List Type Standard Detailed Gallery Strunz Dana Chemical Elements Gallery: References Sort by Year (asc) Year (desc) Author (A-Z) Author (Z-A) Howe, Henry M. (1890). Report on the Elizabeth Copper Mine of Strafford, Vermont (Baltimore, MD: Hoffman & Co.) Weed, Walter H. (1903): Notes on the Copper Mines of Vermont (Contributions to Economic Geology; USGS Bulletin 225) Weed, Walter H. (1911): Copper Deposits of the Appalachian States (USGS Bulletin 455). Jacobs, E. C. (1916): Copper Mining in Vermont; in Report of the State Geologist on the Mineral Industries and Geology of Vermont, pp. 192-195. Weed, Walter H. (1920): Mines Register, vol. 14, p. 1420. McKinstry, Hugh Exton and Mikkola, Aimo K. (1954). The Elizabeth copper mine, Vermont; Economic Geology: 49: 1-30. Nicolay & Stone (1967): Rocks & Minerals: A Guide For Collectors of the Eastern US. Howard, P. F. (1969): The Geology of the Elizabeth Mine, Vermont. (Montpelier, VT: Dept. of Water Resources). Rocks & Minerals (1996): 71: 330. Hammarstrom, J. M., Meier, A. L., Jackson, J. C., Barden, R., Wormington, P. J., Wormington, J. D., & Seal II, R. R. (2000). Characterization of mine waste at the Elizabeth copper mine, Orange County, Vermont. US Geological Survey Open-File Report 99-564, 74 p. United States Army Corps of Engineers (2001): Historical Context and Preliminary Resource Evaluation of the Elizabeth Mine, South Strafford, Orange County, Vermont. (Cambridge, MA: Arthur D. Little, Inc.) External Links Other Regions, Features and Areas containing this locality North America Plate Tectonic Plate This page contains all mineral locality references listed on mindat.org. This does not claim to be a complete list. If you know of more minerals from this site, please register so you can add to our database. This locality information is for reference purposes only. You should never attempt to visit any sites listed in mindat.org without first ensuring that you have the permission of the land and/or mineral rights holders for access and that you are aware of all safety precautions necessary. Copper Mine. On "Copperas Hill". First opened in 1793. Ore is pyrrhotite containing disseminated chalcopyrite. Mined for copper beginning in 1830. Closed in the Great Depression, re-opened then closed in 1958. In 1918 the mine produced 300,000 lbs. of copper and 35 oz. of silver. (Weed, 1920). Besshi-type massive sulfide deposit.According to the Town of Strafford website: The discovery of copperas and copper ore at Strafford in the 1790s led to the creation of the Elizabeth Mine Company and the Vermont Mineral Company. During the last period of its operation the Elizabeth Mine was the largest in New England... President James Monroes 1817 visit to Straffords copperas works caused a sensation locally.Chronology (Source: HISTORIC AMERICAN ENGINEERING RECORD, National Park Service, VT-35, undated, available at Library of Congress online (link below):1793 - Metallic sulfide ore deposit discovered on Copperas Hill1809 - Vermont Mineral Factory Company begins surface mining and copperas (iron sulfate) production1817 - U.S. President James Monroe visits mine on goodwill tour 1830 Underground mining begins; Isaac Tyson, Jr. smelts first copper at Furnace Flat1854 - Intermittent copper smelting at Furnace Flat through 18671882 - Copperas production ends; James Tyson names mine Elizabeth after his wife; Tysons smelt copper at Sargent Brook to 18901898 - Tysons construct 1898 Adit; smelt copper on east side of Copperas Hill through 19021906 - Mine purchased by August Heckscher; new smelters installed but operate intermittently1916 - First froth flotation ore milling at Elizabeth Mine 1925 American Metals Company briefly operates mine1928 - National Copper Corporation and Frederick Foote briefly operate mine 1942 - Vermont Copper Company, Inc. organized, begins construction and reopens mine for World War II copper production1943 - First copper concentrate shipped from Elizabeth Mine mill for smelting by Phelps Dodge Corporation at Laurel Hill, Long Island, New York1948 - New adit and shaft dug to develop ore down to 975 foot level 1949 New crusher and equipment added for extra capacity; ore extraction begins from waste dumps, South Open Cut, and Ely Mine dumps 1950 Copper production reaches 7 million lb. 1952 Pyrrhotite extraction for sulfur for Brown Paper Company of Berlin, New Hampshire begins; Tailings Pile 2 started1954 - Copper production exceeds 8.5 million lb.; Appalachian Sulphides, Inc. purchases Elizabeth Mine from Vermont Copper Company1958 - Ore exhausted as mining progresses north of Ompompanoosuc River; Appalachian Sulphides closes Elizabeth Mine and shifts operations to historic Ore Knob, North Carolina copper mineUPDATES:2001 - EPA placed the site on the National Priorities List (NPL) in June2003 - EPA begins cleanup of mine site, designated a Superfund site2010 - $8 million stimulus grant jump-started cleanup efforts2017 - A private developer installed a 4.9-megawatt solar array on the radiated tailings pile Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced Wednesday she had joined 42 other Attorneys General from around the nation in urging the Federal Communications Commission to adopt rules cracking down on illegal robocalls and malicious caller ID spoofing. Spoofing, according to the FCC, is when a robocaller falsifies caller ID information so your phone displays a number that isnt accurate. The numbers they choose are often close to the person theyre trying to trick, which increases the likelihood a person will pick up. From there, callers try to lure somebody into giving away personal information or transferring money. The FCC in February proposed a set of rules banning spoofed text messages and international calls in line with a new federal law passed in 2018. Since 2009, the FCC has issued fines for maliciously spoofed calls domestically, and issued $200 million in fines in 2018. But until the new law was enacted, the FCC didnt have the ability to do the same for spoofed text messages or spoofed calls originating overseas. The rules the FCC is considering would allow them to do so. Nessel and other Attorneys General urged the adoption of those rules in a letter to the FCC. We must work together to effectively bring the sword down upon all scammers, as well as shield U.S. consumers from these thieves, the Attorneys General wrote. The letter points to estimates U.S. consumers received nearly 48 billion robocalls in 2018, and Michiganders received 1.2 billion of those. In 2018, telemarketing and robocall scams were second-highest on the top 10 list of consumer complaints to the Michigan Attorney Generals Office. That year the Attorney General got 235 complaints. This year 107 have already been filed. Protecting the people of Michigan is our first priority and thats precisely why Ive joined attorneys general from across the nation in support of this rule change, Nessel said. The exponential surge in scams through spoofing and robocalls that some Michigan residents have fallen victim to compels us to speak up and urge the FCC to take up these new rules so we can provide better protections for our residents and all Americans. According to the FCC, unwanted calls are the top complaint that agency gets, accounting for more than 60 percent of total complaints. Detroits public lighting authority filed a lawsuit against a manufacturer in federal court saying that nearly 20,000 streetlights in the city are prematurely dimming and burning out. Specifically, the Public Lighting Authority of Detroit is alleging a breach of contract on California-based Leotek Electronics part and is demanding a jury trial. Charges included in the lawsuit filed Monday, May 6 in federal court in Detroit are breach of contract and breach of warranty. The Associated Press reports that Leotek was responsible for about one-third of the citys street lights installed in the past couple of years that were intended to last at least 10 years. Mayor Mike Duggan told the Detroit News, who first reported the news, that it could cost the city as much as $9 million to repair the luminaries. While this comes with a hefty price tag, Duggan told the newspaper that the city is aiming to have repairs done as reimbursement through the manufacturer. Work to repair the dimming or already broken LED lights in the streets of Detroit could start in the next month and be complete by November. In court documents, experts with Detroits lighting authority say that they expect a system-wide failure of Leoteks luminaries in the short-term. These experts add that the lights bought from Cree, Cooper and King are performing according to industry standards and expectations. Related: Detroit becomes largest city in America completely lit with LED streetlights Over the past five months, while streetlights were failing in large sections of Detroit, Leotek refused every attempt by the PLA (Public Lighting Authority) to get the benefit of its warranties, even though they admit the problem with its luminaries and know that it is imperiling the safety and well being of Detroit residents, court documents read. Detroit is not the only municipality victimized by Leotek. Its luminaries are prematurely burning out in other municipalities, including Berkeley, California." In this case out in Berkeley, the company is accused of knowingly using products manufactured in Taiwan despite a contract calling for domestically made products. The city bought 25,320 E-Cobra lights from the company for $3.9 million originally, and ended up paying Leotek about $5.2 million for the project, altogether. Detroits lighting authority alleges it first reached out to the company concerning the lights back on Dec. 13, 2018, with the company admitting it had experienced a higher number of reports of failures in recent months four days later on Dec. 17. The lighting authority says it studied numerous, randomly-selected lights from the company in the city, and that it found all them had failed or started to fail for the same reason. Related: Photo from space shows effects of Detroits LED lighting overhaul Specifically, the Leotek luminaries lack heat dissipation which cause excessive heat to accumulate internally, and, in consequence, the luminaries prematurely dim or burn out, the city agency reports in court documents. On April 11, 2019, counsel for Leotek promised to provide PLA with a timetable for replacing the E-Cobra luminaries by April 17, 2019. This deadline has come and gone, and Leotek ceased all communications with the PLA. Indeed, approximately five months have passed since the PLA notified Leotek of the defective E-Cobra luminaries, and they refused to perform under its warranties." A.P. reports that the last of the 65,000 LED lights were installed in Detroit back in 2016 as part of a $185 million project. Duggan told the News that were going full speed ahead on replacement and suing them for the $8 to $9 million it will cost us. GMs busy Wednesday continued with the Detroit-based automaker confirming it is in talks to sell its shuttered Lordstown, Ohio plant to an electric truck manufacturer. Some have reported that the deal is finalized, but GM maintains that it is still in talks with Cincinnati-based Workhorse Group to sell the plant as of Wednesday afternoon. The automaker touts the move as an opportunity to bring significant production and electric vehicle assembly jobs to the plant. Workhorse Group would acquire the factory, and hold a minority stake in a newly-formed joint-venture. The companys CEO, Duane Hughes, said in a statement that the agreement could be a positive outcome for all while solidifying Workhorses role in the EV community. We remain committed to growing manufacturing jobs in the U.S., including in Ohio, and we see this development as a potential win-win for everyone, Mary Barra, GMs chairman and CEO, said in a statement. Workhorse has innovative technologies that could help preserve Lordstowns more than 50-year tradition of vehicle assembly work. Related: GM extends production at soon to be shuttered plant through January 2020 While still in the early stages, the automaker specifically lays out that once the agreement is in place, work could begin immediately to prepare the facility for new production. GMs operations at the plant ceased back in March of this year, resulting in the loss of about 1,700 hourly jobs. The Lordstown Plant comes in at 6.2 million square feet, and GM has kept it heated and maintained since it closed to keep it ready in the case it reopened. This news all comes after GM announced in November it would close three assembly plants and two propulsion plants in Michigan, Ohio, Maryland and Ontario by the end of 2019. These closures will result in the loss of about 14,700 jobs including 8,100 white-collar, salaried employees. Earlier this year, the automaker announced that its Detroit/Hamtramck plant would have its life extended through at least January 2020. The potential sale of the Lordstown plant comes on the heels of the automakers announcement that it was creating 450 new jobs in the state with investments in facilities in Toledo, Moraine and Parma, Ohio. The U.S. economy and our core business are strong, so we can expand our commitment to U.S. manufacturing and Ohio and create job opportunities for our employees, Barra added in her statement. We also expect to bring more jobs to the U.S. over time in support of the expected provisions of the USMCA. Related: GM adds shift, 400 jobs to aid next-gen Corvette production in Kentucky Specifically, GM is investing in the DMAX plant in Moraine for diesel engine production, the Toledo Transmission plant for its new 10-speed auto transmission for trucks/SUVs, and the Parma Metal Center for the expansion of stamped parts and laser cell welding tech. The automaker breaks its 2019 moves by touting the 450 new jobs in Ohio, 1,000 positions in Flint, 400 in Orion Township and another 400 to its Bowling Green, Kentucky facility. Related: GM recalls 368K newer trucks worldwide after receiving 19 reports of fires Debbie Stabenow wants to show off her home state and in particular Zukey Lake Tavern to one of Hollywoods top power couples. The Michigan Democrat has invited Ryan Reynolds -- star of the Deadpool and Detective Pikachu films and his wife Blake Lively -- star of Gossip Girl -- to visit the well-known establishment. Reynolds recently said in an interview with the New York Times his favorite t-shirt comes from the Pinckney bar. In the interview, Reynolds says he found the shirt at a vintage store in Los Angeles about 18 years ago. He admits that hes never actually been to the bar however. Stabenow wants to change that. Hey Ryan, Zukey Lake Tavern is in Pinckney, MI! Ive been there many times for the great pizza and other good pub food. You and @ blakelively need to join me there for dinner sometime! wrote Stabenow on her Twitter page. So far, Reynolds and Lively have yet to respond but it seems rather unlikely theyd come to Michigan anytime soon as Lively is pregnant and Reynolds is on a promotional tour for the upcoming Detective Pikachu movie. When President Donald Trump visits a school, its usually for a campaign rally, not a classroom tour. At his latest State of the Union address, he mentioned education just once. On Twitter, he has used the word education six times while in office, compared with 500 uses of the word border. Education, it's safe to say, is not his top priority. Instead, Trump entrusts that realm to Education Secretary Betsy DeVos, who after two years has emerged as one of the most polarizing figures in his Cabinet yet also one of its most enduring members. While chiefs of a dozen other agencies have quit or been fired, DeVos has survived and shows no intention of leaving. "Just because she's been a lightning rod and been engaged in controversy doesn't mean she's not doing her job," said Sen. Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. "She's come and she has stayed, which is more than you can say about some others in the Cabinet." DeVos, a longtime Grand Rapids philanthropist and Republican activist, has long been a controversial figure in Michigan, where she and her husband have led the call for school choice and vouchers. Among DeVos' supporters, there's a belief that Trump's distance from education is a blessing. While the White House focuses on issues such as immigration and the economy, DeVos has been free to continue her push for school choice, the topic that drew her into education and fueled her more than 30 years of advocacy. In return, Trump gets an education leader who appeals both to school choice supporters and to evangelical Christians. DeVos, 61, who was raised in the Christian Reformed Church, is known for her devout faith and often weaves religion into her education speeches. Despite her distance from Trump, she has a longtime friendship with Vice President Mike Pence, and has built other alliances across the administration, her aides say, including with Ivanka Trump, the president's daughter and adviser, and her husband, Jared Kushner. It also helps that, in a Cabinet plagued by scandal, DeVos has kept a clean ethical record. Unlike several of her peers who have faced inquiries over lavish travel taken at taxpayer expense, DeVos travels in a family plane and covers the cost herself. Every year, she distributes her $200,000 salary among different charities. "Lots of people disagree with her, but not because she's done the wrong thing," said Nathan Bailey, her chief of staff. "She's probably the person of the deepest personal integrity I've ever met in my life." DeVos, who aides said was unable to be interviewed for this story, has shied away from media attention. But she did make her first appearance Monday at a conference of education journalists that has been a regular stopping point for her predecessors. Asked if she would sign on for four more years as education secretary if Trump were to win reelection, she told the Education Writers Association national seminar, "I'm not sure my husband would be OK with that." She also reiterated her longtime stance that Michigan children need more options. The reality is, Michigan doesnt have wide open choice, DeVos said. Michigan only has the opportunity to offer charter schools, and in my book, thats one step towards choice, but thats not education freedom. DeVoss push for vouchers in Michigan has been stymied by the Michigan Constitution, which strictly limits use of public dollars for private schools. DeVos and her husband, Dick, were behind a failed referendum in 2000, in which Michigan voters rejected changing the constitution to allow for a voucher plan. For an education secretary, DeVos has attracted a remarkable amount of vitriol. She's reviled by teachers unions, who oppose her school choice policies and call her an enemy to public schools. She's a common political target for Democrats, who have vilified her in campaign ads from Michigan to Texas. Detractors portray her as an aloof billionaire with a poor grasp of education policy, an image that hasn't been helped by occasional public gaffes. At her 2017 confirmation hearing, for example, she appeared confused when asked about a federal law protecting students with disabilities. Later she was mocked after suggesting some schools might need guns for protection against grizzly bears. Her aides say DeVos continues to receive support from Trump and has a good relationship with him. But behind the scenes, occasional conflicts with the White House have bubbled into public view, including during a March dispute over funding for the Special Olympics. In private meetings, DeVos had objected to an administration proposal to eliminate money for the Special Olympics, a group she supports. But when the cut was kept in place in Trump's 2020 budget proposal, DeVos fell in line and defended it in public, even though it drew intense criticism from Democrats. As public outcry grew, however, Trump changed course and restored the money, saying, "I have overridden my people." To some on Capitol Hill, it sounded like Trump was throwing DeVos under the bus even after she loyally defended a White House proposal. "The president didn't do her any favors by changing his mind on his own budget when the iron got hot," said Alexander, education secretary in the early 1990s. "It's not her budget, it's the president's budget, and everyone in the room knew it was never going to be adopted." DeVos aides say she didn't take it as a slight. But at a Washington event the next day, when asked if she was glad to be secretary, DeVos said yes "most days I am." Other conflicts with the White House have stayed quieter. DeVos disagreed with the administration's early decision to revoke Obama-era guidance protecting transgender students, for example, and a recent executive order from Trump upholding free speech on college campuses. DeVos had previously spoken against a federal response to free speech disputes but stayed quiet on the issue when Trump issued his order. Some who know DeVos are confounded by her persistence. She doesn't need the money. She has no dream of higher office, they say. She could easily pack up and return to the comfort of her home. "I have wondered why in the world she keeps doing this," said Rev. Robert Sirico, a family friend and president of the conservative Acton Institute think tank. "It's not for personal gain. It's certainly not for personal aggrandizement." The answer he arrives at: "She believes the truth of what she professes," he said. "It's because she thinks this is going to benefit the kids in American schools." At times, rumors have swirled that DeVos would quit. As recently as November, after Democrats won control of the House, even some conservatives expected her to step down. But she dismissed the rumors, and if anything she has ramped up her work since then. She recently started touring the country to promote her new school choice initiative, a proposed tax credit to support scholarships sending students to private schools and other education options. It's meant to be a more politically viable option than her past school choice plans, which failed to gain traction even in her own party. Win or lose, supporters say she has succeeded in widening the conversation about school choice, and has encouraged more states to consider it. "I didn't expect her to be anyplace further than she is right now," said Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Mich., a friend of DeVos. "But she has put the dialogue out there, and it is causing us to talk about things that haven't been on the docket for a number of years." Democrats, though, say DeVos is taking the country in the wrong direction. Her new plan has drawn wide pushback from Democrats, including Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee. "Her focus has been on voucher programs and school choice," he said. "I think the focus ought to be on students being educated in public schools." Two other Democrats recently called on DeVos to resign, saying she has endangered students by rolling back Obama-era guidelines protecting transgender students, racial minorities and students who were cheated by for-profit colleges. Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Wis., wrote that DeVos should quit "before her actions wreak even more havoc than has already occurred." Her aides say she isn't going anywhere. "She doesn't need this job, and I think that actually gives her some liberty to stay focused," said Bailey, her chief of staff. "The noise that tends to distract and bog down people who are more focused on the politics of things, it doesn't get to her." ___ Follow Collin Binkley on Twitter at https://twitter.com/cbinkley EVART, MI Federal scientists are now measuring water levels where Nestle plans to increase its groundwater extraction for bottling under a controversial permit issued by Michigan regulators last year. According to Nestle Waters North America, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is collecting data at two spring-fed creeks near Evart that flow by a high-capacity well from which the company sources groundwater for sale under its Ice Mountain spring brand. Although the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), formerly known as the DEQ, approved Nestles request to boost extraction on the well last spring, the company has yet to actually increase its water withdrawal rate. Regulators must approve Nestles plan to monitor water levels and streamflow around the wellhead before it can increase extraction. Nestle submitted those plans in April. Nestle says USGS will provide objective third-party data. The company says it requested the monitoring, which it jointly funds with EGLE. The federal science agency, which is part of the U.S. Dept. of Interior, has installed underground equipment in two spots near Nestles White Pine Springs well which can record and transmit data about water quantity, conditions and streamflow in real-time. The data is available on the USGS National Water Information System. Some have raised questions regarding the impact of our operations on the environment, said Ice Mountain water plant spokesperson Arlene Anderson-Vincent. While we are confident in the sustainability of our operations, we have asked a respected, third-party scientific agency to conduct their own monitoring. We are optimistic that this additional independent data collection will provide valuable information to the public about Twin and Chippewa Creeks, Anderson-Vincent said. Nestles permit to increase extraction from 250 to 400 gallons-per-minute (gpm) on the well is highly unpopular in Michigan, particularly after the drinking water crisis in Flint. Nestle pays about $800 in annual paperwork fees to withdraw millions of gallons from wellfields in Osceola and Mecosta counties. Michigan law allows Nestle to withdrawal groundwater from underneath its property for free provided the extraction doesnt harm the environment or dry up neighboring wells. The permit was challenged last summer in state administrative court by the Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation (MCWC) and Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. The MCWC and tribe says regulators improperly approved previous incremental extraction rate increases on Nestles well that skirted public review and did not follow state law. They say DEQ (now EGLE) failed to obtain required data on existing conditions in the field and, instead, relied on Nestle-supplied data and computer models when approving the permit. In February, state administrative law judge Dan Pulter denied Nestle and EGLEs motion to dismiss the challenge, which paved the way for a bench trial-like hearing. That hearing runs May 20 to 28, according to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Regardless of the outcome, attorneys in the case say appeals are expected in state circuit court. A separate local zoning case between Nestle and Osceola Township related to water pipeline infrastructure serving the controversial wellhead is pending at the state court of appeals. In May 2018, Nestle began supplying bottled water to Flint. The company says the supply will continue until this August and is expected to top 6.5 million bottles by that time. From Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to GOP legislative leaders, both Democrats and Republicans are scrambling for strategies to lower Michigans sky-high auto-insurance costs. Michigan ranks No. 1 in the nation with an average premium of $2,611 -- 83% above the national average of $1,427, according to Insure.com. But with competing ideas and questionable savings, heres a look at exactly why costs are so high, what options are under discussion and whether they would ultimately lower what Michiganders pay for auto insurance. Michigan has the most expensive insurance because it has the most expensive benefits. Michigan auto insurance has a unique and very expensive feature: Every policy includes unlimited medical coverage, also known as personal injury protection or PIP, for auto-accident victims. If someone becomes a paraplegic or has serious brain damage that requires expensive lifetime care, its covered -- even when the cost runs into millions of dollars. Rising medical costs have driven up expenses of PIP, which comprised 6% of premiums in 1972 and is now 42% of the average premium. Only 12 states require PIP, and Michigan is the only state mandating unlimited coverage. New York ranks No. 2 in this category, and its mandated coverage is $50,000. Limited cost controls for medical coverage Also driving up PIP costs: Auto insurers pay more for medical services and accident victims use those services more. Michigan law allows medical providers to use customary charges when billing auto insurers. That sounds fair, but health insurance companies and Medicare/Medicaid rarely pay what is billed because theyve negotiated steep discounts. Auto insurers, who have a very small proportion of patients, lack the leverage to get those discounts. As an example, a 2013 study found a Detroit medical provider could get $3,279 for a lower back MRI when an auto insurer was paying the bill compared to $484 for a Medicare patient and $766 under the states workers compensation program. Moreover, medical use is higher is as well. A new study by the Insurance Research Council found Michigan auto-accident victims were twice as likely to get an MRI and 50% more likely to get a CT scan in 2011 compared to 2002, and they are much more likely to be hospitalized. On the plus side, Michigan auto-accident victims get top-notch care because providers are guaranteed payment. On the downside, that drives up premium costs: Accounting for both higher prices and higher usage, medical claims cost Michigan auto insurers 57 percent more than claims for similar crashes in other states, the Citizens Research Council of Michigan said in the 2013 study. Michigan vulnerable to auto-insurance fraud Michigans unlimited benefits may prove a powerful lure to unscrupulous providers looking to shift their operations to new, more vulnerable markets, the Insurance Research Council study says. The fraud typically involves claims for lost wages; unnecessary medical services, or getting the insurer to pay an accident victims relatives or friends an hourly wage for unnecessary attendant care, experts say. The Insurance Research Council says nearly 60% of open catastrophic claims included expenses for family-provided attendant care. To complicate matters, first-party auto insurers in Michigan must reimburse within 30 days and are penalized if claims are not paid in a timely fashion. That could mean less oversight in preventing fraudulent claims or abuse of benefit, the Citizens Research Council says. Furthermore, Michigan has been criticized for its lack of an anti-fraud auto-insurance watchdog. Last September, then-Gov. Rick Snyder signed an executive order creating an anti-fraud unit with Department of Insurance and Financial Services. However, the four-person unit comes with no new funding, and its unclear what the unit has accomplished so far. About 20% of Michigan drivers go without insurance High insurance costs in Michigan create another unintended consequence: About 20% of Michigan drivers are uninsured compared to a national average of 13%. In Detroit, the estimate of uninsured drivers is closer to 60%. When an uninsured driver is at fault in an accident, insured drivers or their insurance companies typically end up covering the costs for property damage and medical costs. Thus, the more uninsured drivers, the more costs are shifted to those with insurance. Litigation costs are up The whole point of no-fault insurance is limiting litigation. But Michigans personal injury lawsuits are up 130% over the past decade and two-thirds of lawsuits involve drivers suing their own insurance companies over no-fault insurance claims. And that doesnt include lawsuits involving insurers and medical providers over no-fault reimbursements. Some also point out that Michigans no-fault system has a perverse incentive to run up medical bills: The current system only allows lawsuits in cases of serious injury, and victims can be tempted to maximize medical care to qualify for the tort system. Questions about Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association The MCCA is a private nonprofit created by the Legislature to reimburse auto insurers for PIP benefits that exceed $555,000 per claim. Currently, Michigan drivers pay $192 per vehicle to the MCCA, a cost built into their insurance premium. On July 1, that cost will go up to $220. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has called for the Department of Insurance and Financial Services to review the MCCAs operations. As a private agency, the MCCA is not subject to the Freedom of Information Act and has been criticized for lack of transparency. The organization covers medical costs for about 18,000 auto-accident victims. At the end of fiscal 2018, the MCCAs assets totaled $20.6 billion and it spent about $1.2 billion. Question have been raised about why the MCCA needs such a huge reserve. Officials say they calculate $23.5 billion in future liabilities, leaving a $2.9 billion shortfall in covering lifetime expenses for current victims. Questions about state regulation of auto-insurance rates Auto-insurance rates are regulated by the Department of Insurance and Financial Services, which requires insurers to prove their rates are reasonable. However, some note state regulators did not reject any auto insurance rate changes between 2012 and 2016. (The DIFS says it raised 199 objections during that time, which they say were adequately answered by insurers.) Reform efforts have gotten derailed by powerful lobbies Michigan officials have proposed multiple reforms in recent years, but there are several powerful lobbies pulling in different directions. For instance, the Insurance Alliance of Michigan strongly advocates strategies that would cap medical costs, while the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, whose members benefit from the high reimbursement rates, says the real key is cracking down on fraud, tighter regulation of insurance rates and eliminating use of non-driving factors in pricing auto insurance. The Michigan Association for Justice, which represents trial attorneys, and the Coalition Protecting Auto No-Fault, which includes a number of medical organizations and patient-advocacy groups, also have been vocal about trying to keep unlimited no-fault coverage in place. Reforms involve trade-offs This isnt an easy problem to solve. If it was, it would be solved already. Heres a look at the various reforms on the table and the pros and cons. Make getting rid of no-fault or making it optional A series of bills introduced in the state House in February would scrap the no-fault system entirely. Such reforms could certainly lower premiums. But they also would increase lawsuits, and policyholders who choose a tort system would not have access to many of the same benefits as no-fault customers -- especially if someone is involved in a serious accident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. End mandated unlimited medical coverage for auto-accident victims If Michigan capped PIP at $500,000, it would eliminate the $220 fee per vehicle paid to the MCCA. If Michigan lowered the cap to $50,000, the highest mandatory coverage outside of Michigan, it would save hundreds of dollars per vehicle more. A sweeping bill passed Tuesday by the state Senate would allow drivers to lower PIP coverage to $50,000 with an additional $200,000 rider for emergency room care -- and allow drivers to opt out of PIP entirely if their health insurance covers auto-related accidents. If that bill becomes law, victims with medical costs exceeding their auto coverage would be covered by their health insurance, which is what happens in other states. Advocates for keeping unlimited coverage say its a vital safety net for auto-accident victims. In other states, auto accident victims with catastrophic injuries often become dependent on Medicaid, and sometimes have to spend down their assets to qualify. Such a move could also increase the states Medicaid costs. Create a fee schedule for medical providers Under this reform, medical reimbursement rates would be more in line with what Medicare or private insurers pay. The bill just passed by the state Senate would base reimbursement rates on the workers compensation fee schedule. A fee schedule could get stiff resistance from the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, which says government-mandated fee schedules like workers comp and Medicaid do not fully cover the cost of care" and could drive up health-care bills for other patients. Better coordination between auto and health insurer policies Currently, auto insurers can allow drivers to coordinate their auto and health insurance, using their health plan as the first payer. Whitmer has asked the Department of Insurance and Financial Services to examine if insurers have appropriately reduced premiums in such cases. A big reason to encourage coordination of auto and health insurance: Since health insurers pay lower prices for medical services, it would lower medical costs overall for auto accidents. The downside: Many policies already are coordinated, so the savings might be small. Also, lower reimbursement rates would put pressure on health-care providers. Related to this, the Michigan Health & Hospital Association has proposed letting senior citizens opt out of mandated no-fault medical coverage and allowing Medicare to cover their needs, a proposal that could save seniors $800 to $1,000. The state Senate bill would allow any driver to opt out of PIP if their health insurance covers auto accidents. End use of other non-driver factors in pricing insurance Currently, insurers can use non-driving factors to price insurance, including education, home ownership, occupation and credit scoring factors. Auto rates also can vary considerably by ZIP Code. Critics say this drives up insurance rates for some, especially in low-income communities such as Detroit. Last week, Whitmer ordered a study of non-driving factors in pricing auto insurance.. Insurance companies counter that non-driving factors can be highly predictive of whether someone will be involved in a crash. They also say eliminating use of non-driving factors would not change the premium average; while some would pay less, some would pay more. It would simply shift costs but not actually lower them, said Tricia Kinley, executive director of the Insurance Alliance of Michigan. Crack down on fraud There is general agreement that a crackdown on fraud could lower rates. The Insurance Alliance of Michigan urges state policymakers to address rampant fraud and abuse within the system," saying it costs the average Michigan family hundreds of dollars a year in additional premiums. Meanwhile, the Coalition to Protecting Auto No-Fault calls for a fair and funded fraud authority" to reduce fraud "whether its committed by providers, attorneys or the insurance companies that wrongly deny legitimate claims. And the Michigan Health & Hospital says lawmakers should address fraud before they reduce medical benefits. A big downside is that different stakeholders have different definitions of fraud, and its not clear what the cost savings would be. The state Senate bill would create an auto insurance fraud authority housed under the Michigan State Police to monitor and prosecute potential abuse in the system.. YPSILANTI, MI - Ypsilantis City Council voted to remove the Peninsular Paper Dam during its meeting Tuesday, May 7, potentially reconnecting 1.6 miles of the Huron River that have been isolated for more than 100 years. Despite some concern from council members and the public that the decision was taking place too quickly, the resolution passed by a 5-1 vote, with mayor pro-tem Lois Richardson dissenting. The council approved $500,000 toward removing the dam with the understanding that the city apply for grants to complete the project. Council members Anthony Morgan and Nicole Brown initially appeared to be leaning toward tabling the vote for more investigation into the costs associated with repairing and removing the dam. Ultimately, both voted in favor of removal after assertions from Mayor Beth Bashert and council members that the city had in fact done its due diligence in researching both options. Bashert, in particular, said she was disappointed with the second-guessing and misinformation campaign from those who felt the decision needed more time, calling the dam a dangerous risk to our city." We have engaged experts who have removed dams, we have engaged experts who know how to repair dams, she said. We have solid information from them. To make up numbers, to second-guess other information ... that is very frustrating to me and disingenuous, at best. The council heard a number of members of the public express a desire to look into the issue more closely, specifically at the potential environmental impact removing the dam would have and whether the estimated $2.7 million cost of removal was accurate. Im just asking for more information to be gathered before a decision is made because I think there are a lot of question marks about cost and health effects and some of these have very serious consequences, resident Deborah Walker said. Other audience members like Beth Gibbons believed addressing the safety risk of a dam was the most important reason to move forward with removal, while removal would allow nature to be restored in stretches where new water would flow. The dam previously provided hydroelectric power for a paper mill that produced newsprint for Chicago from the 1860s to the 1970s, but it hasnt generated power for decades. A 2016 study by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality concluded the dam is in fair condition, while the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers classified it as having high hazard potential, requiring the city to provide plans on how it will address its deficiencies. As a high hazard potential dam, its failure would lead to the loss of lives and of property - of people who live in Ypsi, Gibbons said. For months, the city has worked with the Huron River Watershed Council to host public input sessions and hire an engineering firm to conduct a feasibility study for removing the dam, restoring the river and reviving the adjacent Peninsular Park. Repairing the dam and demolishing its former powerhouse would cost around $807,000, the city estimated, although members of the public disputed whether removing the powerhouse was necessary. Ongoing maintenance and inspection costs for the aging dam could add up, city officials noted, with inspections required every three years. Removing the dam, which is upstream from Ford Lake, is more expensive up front. A feasibility study conducted by Princeton Hydro showed the base cost of removal would be approximately $1.7 million, with an additional $930,000 for scour protection and reinforcement of the Railroad Bridge and Superior Road Bridge, in addition to a 30 percent contingency. Cost estimates dont include engineering design, permitting, bidding or construction oversight. Friends of Pen Park Director Sally Lusk said costs that havent been considered in the estimate dont provide a realistic look at what removing the dam will actually cost the city in the long run. The group, which provided research putting removal at an estimated $4.3 million, believe the city and council have largely avoided talk about repairing the dam as an option. We certainly support making a decision about the dam in an expeditious manner, but we believe it should be postponed until you have more data and complete information about the unknown cost, primarily, Lusk said. Richardson said she feared pushing the vote forward would lead to another Water Street scenario that taxpayers are left on the hook for. Having lived through Water Strett, I see the potential of another Water Street here, Richardson said. I think we need to slow down. There is no rush. Its not that we dont want to get it done, but what is the rush that we have to vote right now without all of the information that we need. Council member Jennifer Symanns dismissed comparing the scenario with Peninsular Dam to Water Street, a 38-acre property near downtown Ypsilanti that voters are paying off debt to nearly two decades after the city purchased the land for redevelopment. Well be analyzing this as we go forward, getting more information, Symanns said. I think in the long run, this is what makes sense to do. I dont want to jeopardize the budget, but I think we also need to consider the safety of the residents. FLINT, MI -- Former Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Nick Lyon must face a jury on a misdemeanor charge of willful neglect of duty, a Genesee Circuit Court judge ruled Wednesday, May 8. In a seven-page order, Judge Joseph Farah, rejected a motion to dismiss the charge, saying he does not believe he has the authority to stop the prosecution and would not if he did based on the arguments Lyons attorneys have made. Lyon appeared before Farah just last week after state Solicitor General Fadwa Hammoud requested a pause in the criminal case against him, partly because of the discovery earlier this year of millions of pages of records in storage. Prosecutors say they need time to fully review those records, some of which could be relevant to the Lyon case. Rather than the six-month delay sought by Hammoud, Farrah gave Flint water prosecutors six weeks before hes now expected to rule on whether to dismiss the most serious charges, including two counts of involuntary manslaughter, against Lyon. Farah also said last week that his decision on the misdemeanor willful neglect of duty charge would be made first because he believed it would not be affected by any later acquired evidence resulting from redoubled efforts to survey and review any newly discovered materials. Prosecutors have said Lyon was charged with misdemeanor willful neglect for neglecting to tell the public about outbreaks of Legionnaires disease during the Flint water crisis and suspicions that the outbreaks were connected to the citys water. Attorneys for Lyon argued the former health director had no duty under the law to issue such a warning, that state law shielded him from criminal liability, that any alleged duty to protect the public health was too vague to be enforceable, and that there was no evidence he violated any duty, much less evidence that he willfully did so. (Lyons) factual defense may prompt dismissal (of the charge) but the legal argument in his pretrial motion does not do so, Farah wrote. Voters split their ballots on tax issues in Genesee, Saginaw, Bay and Shiawassee counties on Tuesday, May 7, leaving backers of some proposals celebrating and others contemplating their next move. Voters in Fenton, Linden and Fenton Township defeated a request for an ambitious expansion of regions trail system, a measure that would have added 1.2 mills to the current 0.4 mills currently collected, while voters in Shiawassee County turned down a tax increase to fund a new jail project by more than a two-to-one margin. In Linden, a millage renewal to fund a mosquito control program for four years was approved. On school millages, voters in the Bangor Township School District renewed a non-homestead operating millage, but Resse Public Schools, Birch Run Area Schools, Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools all had tax requests rejected. Were going to lick our wounds and move forward, said Vince Paris, executive director of Southern Lakes Parks and Recreation, which supported the trials millage in southern Genesee County. "The people clearly spoke. In every single precinct it was a no. " Voters turned down the request 2,875 to 1,585. During the next several weeks, backers to the expansion will meet to discuss their options, and grants that could help the eventual construction of a Silver Lake Road connector path thats been a priority for several years. We still think trails are important. Were not giving up," Paris said. In other issues on Tuesdays ballot, Samuel Davidson easily defeated Dennis Bragiel, who had been Kawkawlin Township supervisor for a decade, by a margin of 750 to 263. Bragiel faced recall for voting against a motion to put a 120-day moratorium on further implementation of the townships wind energy ordinance. On another wind turbine issue, Jonesfield Township voters turned down a more restrictive energy farm ordinance in northwest Saginaw County by a margin of 149-99. Voters in Genesee Countys Thetford Township elected a new clerk, selecting Nicole Moore, who netted 316 votes. Cindy Hicks (240), Julie A. Tack (123), Kristal S. Alexander (57) and Grace A. Musolf (54) also received votes in the election to replace Leanne Pennington, who abruptly resigned in August 2018. SAUGATUCK, MI -- Voters in the Saugatuck Public Schools district have once again shot down a multi-million dollar bond proposal. The $39.9 million bond proposal to modernize the districts buildings and learning environments narrowly failed at the polls by three votes, according unofficial May 7 election results from the Ottawa County Clerks Office. There were 1,041 in favor of the proposal and 1,044 opposed, according to the unofficial results. Turnout was about 49 percent. Last May, the district floated a $50.7 million bond request that was shot down at the polls. District officials previously said a community survey conducted in its wake resulted in them scaling back the request dollar amount. The funds from the bond would have allowed for infrastructure renovations, a new music and band room and a number of other upgrades at Douglas Elementary and Saugatuck Middle School/High School. The estimated net millage increase for the 27-year proposal over the prior years levy is 1.36 mills. The increase would have cost about $68 per year for people with a home valued at $100,000 with a taxable state equalized value of $50,000. SPARTA, MI -- Sparta School District voters have shot down a 10-year renewal of their sinking fund millage. The measure failed Tuesday, May 7, by a vote of 951 opposed and 800 in favor, or 54.2 percent to 45.6 percent, according to unofficial election results from the Kent County Clerks Office. Turnout was 12.2 percent. The millage of 1.25 mills would have created a sinking fund to construct or repair buildings, improve security, purchase real estate and upgrade school technologies. The sinking fund millage has been in place since 2000, but Sparta couldnt refer to it as a renewal because the Michigan Legislature in 2016 expanded the use of sinking funds to include technology and security, and voters must agree to those uses. Officials estimate the millage would have taken in about $642,411 in 2020. This sinking fund has been huge for our district because we have not had to utilize general fund dollars to maintain our facilities at a very high level, Sparta Superintendent Peter Bush previously told MLive/The Grand Rapids Press. UPDATE: Dont think he meant it, older sibling says ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, MI -- A 9-year-old Sturgis boy has been charged in his mothers homicide, according to juvenile court documents. The woman was found dead early Monday, May 6, at her home on Plumb School Road in St. Joseph Countys Fawn River Township, county Prosecutor John McDonough told WWMT-Newschannel 3, the station reported. The boy was charged with the open murder of Pauline Randol in a petition for delinquency proceedings filed in juvenile court Tuesday, May 7. Randol is listed as the juveniles mother in the document. He was charged with one count of open murder and one count of felony firearm possession. At the time of the killing, the boy was in the possession of a rifle, according to the document. The petition was submitted Tuesday by a detective for the St. Joseph County Sheriffs Department, approved by McDonough and signed by a judge/referee. Balks office referred a call seeking information to the prosecutor. McDonough told MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette he had no comment on the case. Joseph Lancaster, a neighbor, said he got home shortly after the womans death. He said his son heard screaming from the victims home. Police took three people from the scene in a patrol car, Lanscaster said. Its pretty scary when you find out what happened, he said. Sturgis Public Schools Superintendent Art Eberts issued the following statement after the shooting: Our community has experienced a tragic event. As a district it is our goal to provide support to our students, staff, and the community. We are limited in what we can share due to privacy laws and the sensitive nature of this tragedy. The St. Joseph County Sheriffs Department is leading the investigation regarding this event that occurred outside of school, including the release of information about the investigation. MUSKEGON, MI Under cloudy skies and with a small union-led protest in the backdrop, officials and community members from the county and city of Muskegon on Wednesday celebrated breaking ground on the $19 million downtown Muskegon convention center. The event was held May 8 on Fourth Street between West Western Avenue and Shoreline Drive. Thats where the convention center will be built, connecting the L.C. Walker Arena and the downtown Holiday Inn, which will soon become an upper upscale Delta by Marriott. The center is expected to boost winter tourism, hotel and motel room rentals, and special events throughout the year. The jovial groundbreaking was tempered by a demonstration from union workers who are upset over the recent decision by the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners to eliminate a prevailing wage clause from the centers development agreement. The clause called for the city to pay laborers working on the center a union-level wage. Clark Construction Company, a Lansing-based contractor, was chosen by the Muskegon City Commission in January to help manage pre-construction work on the 45,000-square-foot convention center. The company is expected to be the general contractor on the project, but the city commission has not yet approved a general construction contract with Clark. Clark Construction also plans to manage the bidding process for sub-contractors hired to complete construction. The ceremony on Wednesday featured officials from the City of Muskegon and Muskegon County who gathered under two tents erected in the center of Fourth Street, which was closed to traffic. Site work and construction hasnt started yet, so a pile of dirt and five shovels were placed next to a podium beneath one of the tents to simulate a ground breaking. Among those in attendance were Muskegon County Administrator Mark Eisenbarth, Muskegon City Manager Frank Peterson, city and county elected officials and project stakeholders. Several of them lauded the centers potential to change the economic landscape of the city and the incremental efforts Muskegon has made to turn the area into a more vibrant community. We were at one time described by the Ottawa Indians as a marshy swamp, and we later became a town of lumber barons and baronesses, said Susie Hughes, chairwoman of the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners. "From a mall downtown to empty piles of rubble, weve finally admitted to ourselves who and what we actually are. Weve transformed Muskegon and Muskegon County into a thriving community. Weve found ourselves and we cant wait to share what we have. Muskegon Mayor Stephen Gawron struck a similar tone, saying his city and its partners have worked hard to raise Muskegon from the ashes of recession into a grand vision with destinations for tourists, businesses and new residents alike. I believe the big and little incremental projects weve brought forth to build this ... wonderful sense of place we call Muskegon have provided the appeal to draw folks in, Gawron said. All putting a cherry on top of the grand dessert, the lakes and the shoreline." The projects largest financial stakeholder, Jon Rooks, said he was pleased to see the convention center concept finally becoming a reality. Rooks Parkland Acquisitions Two LLC will manage convention center operations when it opens. Rooks also owns the downtown hotel, which would offer additional breakout space for convention center clients and patrons. Room taxes from that hotel and Rooks other downtown hotel, Shoreline Inn, will be used to help pay off bonds to finance convention center construction. Rooks thanked leaders and staff from both the county and the city for their courage and foresight" to build a better Muskegon. This convention center will not only keep our community on the radar for businesses and tourists throughout the state, but it will drive visitors to our area and will keep Muskegons momentum moving forward, Rooks said. Bob Lukens, the director of the Muskegon County Convention and Visitors Bureau echoed Rooks, adding that the ceremony ends a decade of planning to build a convention center downtown. In about a month, this street will be closed and the foundation work will begin on the center, Lukens said. It will connect the new Delta, the center itself and the renovated L.C. Walker Arena behind me. By the first quarter of 2021, the center will be operating, and new groups will be welcomed into the community. It will increase our reach as a visitor destination, and we want to thank you all for being part of the great things happening here. As officials spoke, at least 60 union workers and leaders stood with picket signs on either side of the tents on Fourth Street. The signs read, Local Jobs for Local Workers. While the protest was peaceful, union workers set up a large inflatable fat cat, complete with a cigar in its mouth and bag of cash in hand, at the corner of Fourth and Western. Ryan Bennett, a business agent and steamfitter with the West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters and Service Trades Labor Union, helped organize the protest. Bennet told MLive/Muskegon Chronicle that the group supports the convention center project but was outraged when the county voted to remove the clause on prevailing wage. Bennet said he hopes both municipalities consider union laborers when they hire contractors to build the proposed convention center. Theres things they can do with local labor to really push this project over the edge and make it a huge success, Bennett said. Weve got to keep talking about these things. Theres been so much industry that weve seen leave this town over the last couple decades and no one seems to be paying attention to who theyre hiring when they go to market for goods and services. You cant sit around and wonder what happened to all the good jobs when youre not focusing on spending money to hire local people. Protesters remained silent throughout the event, but a few heckled Peterson when he walked past them prior to the event. Thanks for protecting our jobs, Peterson, yelled one union supporter. As the ceremony wrapped, officials from the county and the city gathered for a photo, donning hard hats and grabbing shovels to move the ceremonial dirt. About 10 sign-wielding union workers stood behind them for what could become an iconic photo in Muskegons modern history. BAY CITY, MI - Bay City is adopting guidelines for its employees who use social media. The City Commission voted in favor of creating the social media policy at its Monday, May 6 meeting. We are just trying to make it clear, employees can post out there - obviously we know a lot of our employees are city residents, Bay City Manager Dana Muscott said. At the same time, we want them to identify them as a resident and not as a city employee if theyre out there on Facebook and if theyre out and talking about the city, something theyre not happy with. Muscott said they havent had any issues in the past with social media, but the city felt it was time to adopt policies relating to it. Its something we needed. I think its at the right time, we probably should have had it before but we havent had any issues, she said. The new policy states employees should not speak to the media on the citys behalf without the permission from their department head. It also establishes guidelines for employees when using social media and publishing to social media with regard to their employment with the city and when providing any speech outside of their official duties, employees should make it clear that the speech is not that of the city but of the employee. SAGINAW, MI When the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw last year appointed a former Michigan Court of Appeals judge to oversee its sexual abuse scandal, prosecutors werent happy. They decried the judges appointment as inappropriate. They also filed a complaint against retired appeals court Judge Michael A. Talbot with the Michigan Attorney Grievance Commission, arguing his conduct approached obstruction of justice. The commission decided not to pursue the matter. Talbot declined to comment on Tuesday, May 7. Im moving on, Talbot said. This is a matter that was dismissed and I have no wish to discuss it. The grievance came to light after Talbot was recently - and briefly - hired by Michigan State University to manage a court-ordered change to its Title IX process. The change requires the institution to allow criminal defendants to cross-examine sexual assault accusers. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a joint statement Monday, May 6, with Saginaw County Prosecutor John A. McColgan stating, "Mr. Talbot acted in an unprofessional and highly disrespectful manner in connection with his representing the Saginaw Diocese. The statement continues, saying that in his position as the Saginaw Dioceses representative, Talbot attempted to use his position as a retired judge in an effort to intimidate, harass, berate, disrespect, belittle and interfere with an ongoing investigation under the guise of protecting children of the community. Nessel and McColgan issued the statement in response to a May 2 article in The Detroit News. Attorney General Dana Nessel speaks during a press conference on Thursday, Feb. 21, 2019 at the Frank Kelley Law Library in the Williams Building in Lansing. Nessel gave updates on Michigan State University, catholic church and Flint water investigations. (Jake May | MLive.com)Jake May | MLive.com According to that article, Amanda Thomashow, a survivor of Larry Nassars abuse, on March 30 retweeted an article announcing Talbots hiring by MSU. Thomashow added, Everyone: MSU cant mess this up any worse than they already have. MSU: Hold my beer. Nessel on March 31 retweeted Thomashows tweet, with the comment What Amanda said. In a reply tweet, Rep. Beau LaFave, R-Iron Mountain, accused Nessel of blatant Anti-Catholicism, adding, There is not even an allegation of misconduct with this Judge. Shortly thereafter, Nessel issued a press release informing the public that Prosecutor McColgan on July 18 had filed the complaint against Talbot with the states Attorney Grievance Commission. On Wednesday, Saginaw County Chief Assistant Prosecutor Mark J. Gaertner said McColgan believed Talbot had attempted to thwart an investigation into alleged sexual assaults committed by the Rev. Robert J. Father Bob DeLand Jr., which in essence bordered on possible obstruction of justice. Talbot filed a response on Oct. 26, followed by the commission issuing its decision on Dec. 17, Gaertner said. After preliminary investigation and careful review of the materials in this file by the commission staff, it has been determined that the matters raised in your request for investigation will not be pursued further, the ruling reads. The Attorney Grievance Commission understands that you are dissatisfied with the involvement of the attorney (Talbot) in this matter. However, the facts you have stated do not indicate that the attorney has engaged in conduct which would be actionable by this office. During their investigation of sexual abuse allegations made against DeLand, police on March 22, 2018, executed search warrants on Saginaw Diocese headquarters and the home of then-Bishop Joseph R. Cistone. About three weeks later, the diocese appointed Talbot as its delegate to oversee the procedures and responses to the sexual abuse and sexual misconduct issues involving clergy and other diocese representatives. That role was to include having Talbot take the lead on any and all interaction with civil authorities, Cistone said. Cistone was being treated for lung cancer at the time. Talbot in 2002 was named chair of the Board of Review on clerical sexual abuse complaints in the Archdiocese of Detroit. At the time of his appointment in Saginaw, Talbot said he was coming into the Saginaw Diocese with a clean slate and hoped to hear from victims of clergy abuse. He also said he wanted to establish a line of communication with civil authorities in all 11 counties the Saginaw Diocese oversees. I hope now that folks will call the diocese, because we can offer them counseling and an extra dimension of the spiritual dimension. If theres a hesitation, call the prosecutor or your local law enforcement agency, Talbot said at the time. McColgan and Gaertner had met with Talbot once on May 2, 2018. We maintained right from the get-go of (Talbots) involvement that it was inappropriate, Gaertner previously told MLive. Not only his appointment, but more importantly, the function of what he was going to be doing. The Saginaw prosecutor office did not previously disclose that McColgan had filed a complaint against Talbot, citing confidentially issues inherent to the process, Gaertner said. Interim Bishop Walter A. Hurley replaced Cistone after the bishops October death and Talbot left his position shortly after, with Hurley telling MLive he did so as there was no longer a need for him. MSU hired Talbot in February. When the Saginaw County Prosecutors Office learned that MSU had hired Mr. Talbot in a position to interact with sexual assault victims, the Prosecutors Office immediately contacted the Attorney General and urged her to convey information relevant to Talbots fitness for the job, Nessel and McColgans May 6 statement reads. That information included that Mr. Talbot, acting on behalf of the Saginaw Diocese, exhibited inappropriate and threatening behavior in what the Prosecutors Office believed was an attempt to get it to shut down a legitimate law enforcement investigation into sexual assaults concerning one of the Dioceses priests. Talbot and MSU ended their association in April, citing scheduling conflicts. The Attorney Grievance Commission is itself barred from commenting on any allegation, though the individual parties are not. The Detroit News article featured several comments from several sources attacking Nessels decision to unveil McColgans complaint against Talbot, but Nessel stands by her decision. The actions of Talbot were so inappropriate and the concern so great from both offices that the information regarding the grievance was disclosed publicly, her statement reads. And to be clear, there is nothing about the filing of a grievance that compels confidentially in this context. Nessels office is investigating all seven Catholic dioceses in Michigan, as well as MSU. The Saginaw County Prosecutors Office itself handled the prosecution of DeLand, 72, who was charged with several counts related to the alleged abuse of two teens and one young man. A jury acquitted DeLand on some of the charges, but he later pleaded no contest to three charges. On April 25, Saginaw County Circuit Judge Darnell Jackson sentenced DeLand to two to 15 years in prison. Saginaw County prosecutors have turned over all the evidence seized in their investigation to the Attorney Generals Office. SAGINAW, MI The last beam for Saginaw Countys new jail was placed atop the structure on Tuesday, May 7, symbolizing the halfway mark of the multimillion dollar project. The new Saginaw County Adult Detention Center, located directly across from the old jail at 208 S. Harrison St., is beginning to take shape. On Tuesday, Saginaw County leaders signed their names on the final beam placed atop the new structure to make their mark on a project that has been in the works for several years. From a historical standpoint having names on the last beam shows the significance of all the people who have worked on this project, since its been in the works for seven years," Saginaw Commission Chairman Michael Webster said. The $35.8 million jail will house 511 inmates, said Saginaw County Sheriff William Federspiel. The current jail is staffed by 53 correctional officers, while the new jail would have 43. He said 10 of the 53 officers will either retire or be switched to another position outside the jail. The new jail will have a direct-observation layout, which will allow officers to manage and see the same number of individuals with fewer staff. The whole key as a modern jail today has to address an enormous range of detainees or prisoners, male, female, preditorial, sentenced, non-sentenced, said Larry Goldberg, president and director of design for Goldberg Group Architects. So the more discreet, easily managed housing pods you can give a sheriff and his jail crew, the more easily and efficiently they can manage the jail and this is what weve done. The Missouri-based business has designed nearly 300 jails across the county, said Goldberg. Spence Brothers is doing the construction of the jail. Federspiel said the project is expected to wrap up in January and inmates could be moved into the new facility by February. He suspects the old jail will be torn down and used for parking. Its just a great opportunity for Saginaw County to not raise taxes but to reduce our liability, said Federspiel. To make it safer for our employees and to have something hopefully thats going to last for the next 100 years. On Aug. 15, 2017, Saginaw County Commissioners passed a resolution and notice of intent to issue tax-exempt bonds to finance the cost of acquiring, constructing, furnishing and equipping the Saginaw County Jail and Sheriffs Administration Building. Consider a scenario where elected officials can make decisions without disclosing a conflict of interest. A scenario with no penalty for keeping even a flagrant conflict secret. A scenario where such a conflict of interest is unlikely to even be discovered because officials keep their finances completely private. Rampant corruption could be happening right under the publics nose, with no one the wiser. Absurd, right? Thats exactly the situation right now in Michigan. Michigan is one of two states and the only one with a full-time legislature with no requirement for public officials to annually disclose basic financial information, including income sources, business investments, or gifts and travel compensation. That can lead to some startling conflicts of interest. As examples involving former lawmakers: One who was a part-time Uber driver sponsored a pro-Uber amendment on legislation involving ride-sharing. Another legislator took testimony from a company president about a bill without mentioning he was selling land to that company. A third, who was the father of a circuit court judge, voted on raises for circuit court judges. Nothing in Michigan law required those lawmakers to voluntarily reveal the conflict -- and they didnt. In the first two cases, the conflict was discovered by journalists. In the third, the lawmaker revealed the conflict a year earlier in during discussion of a similar bill, but didnt raise the issue again when he actually voted for the pay raises. Clearly, we have a problem. We expect our elected officials to act in the publics best interest, not their own. But to ensure that, we must mandate financial disclosures so we know where their interests lie. Legislators must make this law. A law that mandates financial disclosure for elected state officials. A law that sets the parameters of conflict of interest, and establishes appropriate penalties. Currently, state lawmakers get to secretly decide for themselves whether a conflict of interest exists, and if and when to abstain from a vote. Theres no punishment even if they dont reveal a conflict. And since they dont make financial disclosures, the public has no clue when elected officials cross an ethical line. Its not just absurd. Its alarming. This isnt even a close call about the need for reform. Were talking a basic principle of good governance. This is the law of the land in most other places, Craig Mauger, executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, told MLive. To her credit, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, says financial disclosure by state officials is one of her top priorities. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, another Democrat, endorsed the concept on the campaign trail last year. House Majority Leader Lee Chatfield, a Republican, says hes open to having that conversation and seeing real reform happen. Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clark Lake, is another story. He says he would absolutely not support mandatory financial disclosure, arguing it could be a deterrent for recruiting new candidates to run for office in the era of term limits. Shirkeys argument is ridiculous. Its putting the interests of individual politicians over the publics right to know. It ignores that 48 other states do have financial disclosure laws and have not seen their candidate pools dry up. It ignores that conflicts of interest can and do exist, and those conflicts can and do impact decision-making. State officials shouldnt be making decisions on matters where they have a personal financial stake. Period. And the public cant know if such a conflict of interest exists without financial disclosure. As part of our advocacy for a public disclosure, MLive Media Group is asking elected state officials to voluntarily fill out a short form asking certain financial disclosure questions. This effort does not replace the need for a law, but in the meantime if legislators wont take action, something needs to be done to increase transparency. Over the next few weeks, MLive will report on the responses and compile them into a database for the public to view. We will let you know which elected officials refuse our request to comply. We will also continue to report on this issue, the attempts to shed light on disclosures and what other governmental entities require. Lets not just talk a good game about accountability and transparency. Lets see it in action. LANSING, MI -- Michigan voters can photograph their own ballot not themselves after Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson settled a federal lawsuit challenging restrictions on ballot selfies. Joel Crookston, a voter in the Kalamazoo area, sued the Michigan Secretary of State in 2016, arguing the state ban on taking photos of marked ballots or publicly exposing them violates the First and 14th Amendments. Settlement documents filed in U.S. District Court Western District of Michigan Wednesday show both parties agreed to allow voters to photograph their own ballot, but only while inside the voting booth. Stephen Klein, counsel to Wahsington D.C.-based Pillar of Law Institute and lead counsel for Crookston, said the settlement is a win for for free speech, voting integrity, and common sense. Photographs of marked ballots or ballot selfies were the reason for this case, and in that sense its a total victory for Joel," he said. The settlement doesnt affect other restrictions on photography in the area where voting is occurring. Voters cannot take selfies either in the voting booth or anywhere within the area where people are voting. Voters still cant share images of their ballot within 100 feet from the polling place. We reached a resolution that allows voters to have a full opportunity to express themselves, while at the same time ensuring that voters retain the ability to vote in private and without disruption or discomfort, Benson said in a statement. Joel Crookston, who testified in support of a bill allowing ballot selfies in front of the House Elections and Ethics Committee on Dec. 12, 2018, takes a selfie in the committee room. (Jeremy Herliczek | Courtesy of Michigan House Democrats) The agreement was made in April but wasnt submitted to the court and released publicly until May 8 to prevent confusion during the May 7 election. The Bureau of Elections will revise instructions on ballot photography prior to the Aug. 6 election. The case was filed before Benson or Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel took office. Nessel represented Benson in the case after they were elected in 2018. In a Wednesday statement, Nessel said the settlement strikes an appropriate balance between the freedom of speech and the need to protect the secrecy of the ballot and the decorum of the polling place. Asia Bibi, the Christian woman who spent eight years on death row for blasphemy in Pakistan, has flown to Canada to be reunited with her family. The news was welcomed on Twitter, with users posting messages of support and delight. It is a big day, Bibis lawyer Saiful Malook said. Justice has been dispensed. Her reunion with her four daughters in Ottawa concludes a nine-year saga for the Roman Catholic farm laborer, from Ittanwala near Lahore, who was accused of insulting the Prophet Mohammed by a group of Muslim women following a row over a cup of water in June 2009. A local mosque broadcast the allegations levelled against her and she was subsequently dragged from her home and beaten by a mob before being taken into custody. She was sentenced to death in 2010. Throughout her time in prison, Bibi received support both internationally and from within Pakistans own government, with fatal consequences. The governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer, was assassinated by one of his own bodyguards in 2011 after he appealed to the Pakistani president to pardon her. The bodyguard was executed over the crime in 2016. In addition, Shahbaz Bhatti, who was the federal minister for minority affairs at the time, was shot dead by self-proclaimed Taliban gunmen in March 2011 after he called for the reform of blasphemy laws and declared his support for Bibi. Bibi was finally released from prison in 2018 following her acquittal by the Supreme Court which quashed the blasphemy sentence citing unreliable evidence and an alleged confession issued before a crowd that was threatening to kill her. Also on rt.com Pakistani court overturns blasphemy death penalty for Christian woman Her acquittal sparked an outbreak of violence and angry demonstrations on the streets of Islamabad and Karachi as armed mobs pelted police and traffic with stones. The hardline conservative Islamist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) protested for three days and forced the government to reconsider the acquittal. Pakistans Supreme Court upheld the verdict in January. Also on rt.com Free to leave: Pakistans top court upholds acquittal of Christian woman accused of blasphemy Meanwhile, Bibi was kept in a secret location while arrangements were made for her safe departure from the country where she was held prisoner on death row for eight years. At least 65 people have reportedly been killed for blasphemy in Pakistan since 1990. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Oil imports by China unexpectedly surged in April to a record despite refinery maintenance outages and tepid domestic fuel demand, according to data from the Chinese General Administration of Customs. Imports amounted to 43.73 million tons of crude or 10.64 million barrels per day (bpd), customs data showed. That compared with 9.26 million bpd in March and was up 11 percent from the April 2018 level, according to Reuters calculations. The crude imports exceeded our expectations as both domestic refinery production and margins do not appear to support such high volumes of purchases, said Wang Zhao, head of crude oil research at Sublime China Information. Also on rt.com United States to end sanction waivers for countries importing Iranian oil We may see stockpiles rising as state-run refiners pre-stocked supplies in April from Iran and the United States anticipating the impact of sanctions, he added. Data from Refinitiv showed that Chinas crude oil imports from Iran rose to 24 million barrels or about 800,000 bpd in April, which is the highest level since August. The increase came as a result of buyers rushing in shipments before the US sanctions waiver deadline of early May. READ MORE: China regrets US pressure on Iran, calls for full implementation of nuclear deal An analyst at JCL, Zhou Guoxiao, told Reuters that strong buying from independent refineries also contributed to hefty imports in recent months as some plants replenished stocks ahead of resumption of production after planned overhauls. Also on rt.com Huge Iranian oil armada heads to China before US sanctions kick in Exports of Iranian crude oil have been put in jeopardy since the White House re-imposed sanctions on Iran in November last year, demanding all countries stop importing oil from the country. Tehran said it will defy the sanctions and continue to export oil. It has also said that will stop implementing some commitments under a 2015 nuclear deal if it is not allowed to continue exporting oil. Last month, Washington said it will end Iran sanction waivers that have been granted to China, India, Greece, Italy, Taiwan, Japan, Turkey and South Korea to ensure low oil prices and avoid disruption to the global oil market. The decision to end waivers is intended to bring Irans oil exports to zero, Washington said, warning countries that continue to buy Iranian crude after the May 2 deadline will risk facing US sanctions. For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section Beijing wants the nuclear deal with Iran to be preserved after Tehran announced its partial suspension. China said US pressure on Iran was regrettable and said it will protect its companies from the threat of American sanctions. China, one of the signatories of the 2015 agreement on Irans nuclear program, said the deal needs to be saved and fully implemented. Defending and implementing the JCPOA is a joint responsibility of all parties, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said during a daily briefing, using the acronym for the full name of the agreement. We call on all relevant parties to do everything to prevent the situation from escalating. Also on rt.com Iran stops selling excess uranium, will enrich to higher level in 60 days unless Europe acts The official criticized US pressure on Iran, saying such measures only raise tensions over the Islamic Republics nuclear program. Geng said China will protect companies dealing with Tehran from the threat of American sanctions. Beijing is one of the leading buyers of Iranian crude, while Washington threatens to punish purchasers with secondary sanctions. Tehran announced on Wednesday that it was partially suspending its commitments under the deal, calling for European signatories to deliver on their promise to stand up to American pressure and protect Iran. The announcement came exactly a year after the US broke its part of the bargain and started re-imposing sanctions against Tehran, which had been lifted under the Obama-era deal. Like this story? Share it with a friend! US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo repeated the false claim that US-backed opposition leader Juan Guaido is the duly elected leader of Venezuela. Apparently he reads CNN. Speaking in London after his meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, Pompeo told reporters that Venezuelans had chosen Guaido to lead them. The Venezuelan people have spoken through through constitutional mechanism, they have put Juan Guaido as their interim president, and he is the duly elected leader there, Pompeo said, adding that Maduro is on borrowed time. Not only did Guiado not win the presidential election in May 2018, he didnt even run; the opposition boycotted the race. On the basis of a legal technicality, Guaido declared himself interim president in January, and was recognized by a number of countries, including the US and many of its allies. In a recently corrected story, CNN also said Guaido had won an election, but claimed it was in January. There was no election in January, at least not in Venezuela. Also on rt.com Fake news alert: CNN says Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido 'won election in January' Pompeo at the same presser also lectured leaders, including Jeremy Corbyn, who refused to take up the hostile US State Department line on Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro. It is disgusting to see leaders in not only the United Kingdom, but in the United states as well, who continue to support the murderous dictator Maduro, Pompeo replied, adding that no leader in a country with Western democratic values ought to stand behind Maduro. The Guaido-led opposition attempted a military coup in late April, but failed to inspire mass defections from the security forces. The uprising fizzled out within 36 hours. to RT newsletter to get stories the mainstream media wont tell you. The ball is in the EUs court after Tehran partially rowed back on its nuclear deal obligations. It could defy US global efforts to isolate Iran and salvage the deal, but may not have the political will to do so, analysts told RT. The 2015 nuclear deal gave Iran relief from economic sanctions in exchange for accepting restrictions on its nuclear industry. The goal was to ensure that Iran could not rush towards creating a nuclear weapon an ambition that Tehran always denied having and integrate its economy closer with Western nations as part of fostering trust. The deal however was from the start criticized by Israel, which wanted the West to have more confrontation with its regional rival. Once Donald Trump got elected as US president, the future of the agreement signed under his predecessor was left hanging in the balance. Exactly a year ago the US withdrew from the agreement and has since been trying to hurt Iran economically, including by threatening its business partners with secondary sanctions. Irans demarche, on Wednesday, was timed with the US decision and was framed as an adequate response to Americas violation of its international obligations. What the country wants to achieve is to get its due, Seyed Mohammad Marandi, a professor at the University of Tehran, told RT. Iran doesnt want any concessions. Iran simply wants the Europeans to abide by their commitments, he said. So far there has been absolutely nothing. Despite nice words, in reality they have been doing exactly as Trump has demanded. In addition to Iran and the US, the deal was signed by China, Russia and four European parties: Britain, Germany, France and the EU as an entity. Potential European business opportunities were a significant incentive for Iran to accept the deal and the Europeans promised they would do business in Iran despite pressure from Washington. Also on rt.com Reckless steps taken by US led to Irans decision on nuclear deal Kremlin In practice, however, European companies were scared away by the threat of being blacklisted by the Americans which may result in being blocked from the entire US-dominated global financial system and ruin almost any company. The Europeans promised to create a mechanism that would allow dodging US financial surveillance, but it is nowhere close to being operational, said Igor Pankratenko, a Middle East researcher and author. The so-called special mechanism simply doesnt work. And there is no chance this problem can be solved in the nearest future, he told RT. Marandi believes that if the EU were really committed to standing up to the US and saving the deal, they would have been far more efficient. By joining forces with Russia and China on this issue, the Europeans have enough weight to oppose Washington, he said. If the European Union is serious, they can work with the Russians and the Chinese and would find a solution. If the Europeans are serious, they have more than enough leverage to put the Americans in their place. China and Russia could also help resolve the issue by creating an alternative to the defective European workaround for the sanctions, Pankratenko suggested. The solution is obvious. What Tehran really needs is dodging sanctions. There are talks between Iran and China about it. Some issues they are trying to resolve through Moscow, he said. The process is complex and closed from the public, but if it succeeds at least partially and the governments of Russia and China chose to simply ignore some of the sanctions, it would give Tehran a reason to tone down its rhetoric. After Tehrans move on Wednesday, both Moscow and Beijing blamed the US for pressuring Iran and said they believed the nuclear deal was worthy of saving. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Irans President Rouhani announced a gradual scale-down of the countrys commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal in periods of 60 days, starting with a refusal to dispose of excessive heavy water and enriched uranium. The deal signed with Iran by leading world powers and the EU, offered Tehran a relief of sanctions in exchange for voluntarily restrictions of its nuclear industry. Last year the US broke its commitments under the deal and has been seeking to cripple Irans economy with economic sanction. Iran nevertheless remained faithful to its commitments as other signatories pledged to keep the deal alive by withstanding to US pressure. On Wednesday, President Hassan Rouhani announced on national television that Iran will be suspending some of its commitments under the deal, which is also called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), due to continued US violation and a failure of European signatories to compensate for the damage done by Washington. Also on rt.com Iran tells foreign envoys it will 'stop implementation' of some nuclear deal commitments As of now, Tehran will no longer sell off excessive enriched uranium and heavy water, the Iranian president said. Under JCPOA terms, it is required to dispose of those materials if production exceeds certain thresholds. Other signatories will have 60 days to negotiate with Iran and address its concerns, particularly in oil industry and banking sector, which Washington targets with its sanctions. If an agreement is reached, the suspension will be reversed. Otherwise Iran will no longer be bound by an obligation not to enrich uranium under a certain level and may restore the shut heavy water nuclear reactor in Arak, which was supposed to be repurposed with the help of other signatories under the nuclear deal. After those measures are implemented, 60 more days will be given for negotiations, Rouhani warned. And then Iran may take additional unspecified measures, he said. Rouhani defended the JCPOA as a deal that was beneficial to Iran and detrimental to the enemies of Iran. He said only radicals in the US, Israel and Saudi-led Arab nations were interested in destroying it. Today is not the end of the nuclear deal, he stated, calling on other signatories to act and salvage the agreement. The deal was signed under US President Barack Obama, but the Trump administration sided with Israel, which believed the agreement to be a threat to its national security and sought to undermine it. Washington withdrew from the JCPOA in May last year. to RT newsletter to get stories the mainstream media wont tell you. Iran told ambassadors from the UK, France, Germany, China and Russia that it will renege on some commitments under the 2015 nuclear deal, but will not quit the pact completely. Irans President Hassan Rouhani appeared Wednesday on national TV to announce the decision to scale down implementation of the 2015 deal, which is officially called Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). He said the Iranian move was reciprocal action to US complete withdrawal from it under President Donald Trump. Rouhani announced that Tehran will be gradually suspending its commitments under the deal, giving other parties subsequent periods of 60 days to negotiate a reversal of those actions. He blamed European signatories of failing to compensate to Iran the damage done by US unilateral sanctions after Washington broke its part of the bargain. Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif earlier told reporters Tehran would be backing out of some "voluntary commitments" under the 2015 agreement as a response to the EU's inability to stand up to the pressure of Washington's attempts to isolate Iran. Also on rt.com Pompeo arrives in Baghdad for surprise visit amid US-Iran tensions The JCPOA was signed under Barack Obama and offered Iran lifting of international and unilateral economic sanctions in exchange for voluntarily restricting its nuclear program. The document was signed by Iran, China, Britain, France, Germany, Russia, the US and the EU. Trump sided with Israel in calling the agreement the worst deal ever and refused to keep Washingtons part of the bargain in May last year. The US has since re-imposed the unilateral sanctions, which had been lifted from Iran under the JCPOA terms, and is currently seeking to cripple its oil export by targeting buyers with secondary sanctions. to RT newsletter to get stories the mainstream media wont tell you. Russia has expelled two Swedish diplomats from Moscow as part of a reciprocal move against Stockholm, TASS reported on Wednesday, citing Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. The Swedish Foreign Ministry said earlier that the two diplomats were asked to leave Moscow after a visa for a Russian diplomat wasnt renewed. In February, a Swedish citizen was detained in Stockholm, who was suspected of illegal activities in favor of Russia. The man, 45, who was released on March 29, denies any wrongdoing. He dined with a Russian diplomat who later left Sweden, according to the report. Russia submitted an application for visas for its new diplomats after the incident, but it was rejected. Moscow expels 2 Swedish diplomats as reciprocal move Moscow expels 2 Swedish diplomats as reciprocal move Source : RT - Daily news Westerners are now so used to being nannied by the state that when an official tells us its our choice how much to drink and smoke, we are shocked and many are outraged. But maybe its time to push back against all the nudging. This is what the new Norwegian Health Minister Sylvi Listhaug said that led to calls for her immediate resignation for setting public welfare back decades. People should be allowed to smoke, drink and eat as much red meat as much as they want, Listhaug said on national radio. I do not plan to be the moral police, and will not tell people how to live their lives, but I intend to help people get information that forms the basis for making choices. Note, Listhaug, who has enough enemies as it is for her anti-immigrant views, did not say Drink more akvavit, its great! nor that smoking or obesity do not cause cancer, nor did she promise that she was going to do nothing to help public health on the contrary, she announced a new anti-smoking strategy. She merely reaffirmed adults rights to consume substances that are perfectly legal, adding that people know pretty much what is healthy and what is not healthy and expressed a trust in most citizens to act responsibly towards their own health. Yet her words are anathema to how public policy is conducted. Nudging has existed as a term since 2008, but some of the underlying theories date back to the mid-20th century, and are aimed at manipulating you into being a better citizen. There are thousands of different ways to nudge from placing that HPV poster in a prominent spot, to reframing a lung cancer statistic to sound scarier (three times the risk!) to asking an NHS doctor to bring up an unrelated subject during your next routine appointment, to lowering the acceptable amount of units of alcohol to be consumed on the basis of little scientific evidence, to making cigarette packaging unattractive and ostracizing smokers in little enclosures that make them feel like social lepers, something Listhaug mentioned specifically. Nudge explained by Richard H. Thaler, the man who made it mainstream: The democratic social contract with the state has never been as simple as you pay your taxes and follow the laws, and we will provide you with public services the government always wants more control over how its citizens behave. The state needs more or fewer children, fewer litterers, more science graduates. Most establishment politicians see no downside to these advanced methods of achieving these aims: its less illiberal than banning them, its cheap, and rather than telling people what to do, you make them believe they are making their own free choices. One suspects that for many leaders the perfect population is one that could be completely controlled in this manner. There are notable successes already: the cuts in smoking rates across the Western world, or that the current generation of teens is drinking less than before. If you want a present-day example, the intensive nudging towards upping flagging vaccination rates that is currently going on, is almost bound to work. The problem now is that the nudging is growing exponentially, its becoming better-calibrated, and it is leveraging all social communication tools. Its grown too powerful for its own good. It would be one thing if people were only nudged by the ministry of health to get life-saving treatment few would object to such narrowly-defined, uncontroversial use, particularly if it was all evidence-based. Instead people are constantly nudged by advertisers (dont buy that, buy this look there is a discount, also camo is in fashion) by the media (here is our new feature on a transgender couple bringing up their baby; we are SO HYPED for the new Marvel movies) by the school and the workplace (that sex ed class, that open plan office where you type fast because others are watching). Also on rt.com Obamas behavioral science order: Efficiency or manipulation? Operating together particularly with the rise of information technology, and yes that includes your watch telling you its time to go for a run the mechanisms blend into a metaphorical broadcast tower beaming tailored messages at you all the time. It tells you how to behave, what you can and cant say, what you should believe, how you perceive the world around you. Studies have shown that people are both aware of the social manipulation, and mostly in favour of it though probably more for others who they believe to be more susceptible than their own independent-minded selves. But perhaps the best mind control is one that is willingly accepted by the populace. After all, in the Soviet Union there were many who loved (or at least never questioned) the posters on every surface telling you to save electricity, films telling you to work extra shifts for the sake of your country, the political education classes in school, university and at work, where those with deviant hairstyles or proclivities for jazz music would be nudged through a public dressing down, guilt tripping and vague ultimatums. But for those of us to whom this paternalistic liberalism looks all too similar to paternalistic totalitarianism with the same constant intrusion into the lives of private citizens and suffocation of public space, Listhaugs desire to step back out of our lives is refreshing and brave. We will try to repay her faith in us by not destroying our own bodies. By Igor Ogorodnev Igor Ogorodnev is a Russian-British journalist, who has worked at RT since 2007 as a correspondent, editor and writer. Like this story? Share it with a friend! EU officials leading Brexit negotiations have been caught on camera using several choice words to describe the utter chaos to which they have apparently been subjected to by British Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit delegates. The fly-on-the-wall BBC documentary, Brexit: Behind Closed Doors will be shown in two parts and focuses on the Brexit misadventures of the EU Parliaments chief negotiator Guy Verhofstadt and his team. Despite the polite, diplomatic language used in public, tensions were apparently extremely fraught behind the scenes, with the EU team branding British negotiations insane and pathetic. During one scene, EU negotiator Michel Barnier pleaded for someone stable, available and reliable from the British side with whom he could conduct the talks. READ MORE: Brexit sees surge in support for Scottish independence We cant ask too much of Britain, dont overdo it," Verhofstadt wryly replies. After yet another breakdown in negotiations with the British prime minister, the mask of decorum appeared to slip for a moment. What the f*** is wrong with her. Thats insane ... Thats ridiculous. Pathetic, pathetic, Verhofstadts chief of staff Guillaume McLaughlin said when informed that the negotiations had broken down due to pressure from Northern Irelands DUP, whose leader Arlene Foster had derailed May's Brexit deal over the border issue with the Republic of Ireland. Also on rt.com Hypocrites for Ireland: The border that should never have been drawn Oh, f*** off! McLaughlin later shouts at a screen on which May tells the Tory party conference that she is working hard to secure a deal on Brexit. In yet another scene which showcases the utter frustration which has become the hallmark of the entire Brexit negotiation process, Edel Rettman Crosse, Verhofstadts top aide, describes then-Brexit Secretary David Davis as having his head in the f***ing clouds adding that May's administration seemingly did not really give a f*** about the border issue with the Republic of Ireland after all. Shot by Belgian filmmaker Lode Desmet, who was granted exclusive access to Verhofstadt and his team for two years, the first half of the documentary airs Wednesday night. May continues to engage with the British Labour Party in the hopes of securing a Brexit deal that will pass through the British House of Commons before May 22. Also on rt.com Pro-EU Change UK is all at sea while Farages new Brexit Party flies high in polls Meanwhile, the British government confirmed Tuesday that the UK will take part in the European Parliamentary elections on May 23 with the idea that any British MEPs who do get elected won't actually take their seats, assuming negotiations go well. May confirmed her intention to resign once phase one of Brexit is completed. Like this story? Share it with a friend! The US has lifted sanctions from a former Venezuelan spy chief, who recently defected from President Nicolas Maduro's side. US Vice President Mike Pence hopes this incentive will prompt others to defect as well. Pence announced the decision to remove all sanctions from General Manuel Ricardo Cristopher Figuera, the former director general of Venezuela's National Intelligence Service, at a conference in Washington on Tuesday. Also on rt.com Venezuelan ex-spy chief who defected to Guaido arrested on US drug trafficking warrant in Spain Figuera broke ranks with Maduro in the wake of the failed coup attempt, which was orchestrated by a small group of soldiers last week. In a letter that had circulated on social media, the high-ranking general said he switched sides in order to "rebuild the country," citing rampant corruption as one of the most glaring faults of the Maduro presidency. READ MORE: Venezuela to prosecute turncoat lawmakers following failed coup - court Pence says he hopes that Figuera's exoneration will trigger an exodus from the Venezuelan army ranks. "As President Guaido builds a brighter future for Venezuela, we hope the action that our nation is taking today will encourage others to follow the example of General Cristopher Figuera and members of the military who've also stepped forward and taken a stand for the Bolivarian constitution and libertad," he said. The US Treasury Department has confirmed the move. In a statement issued on Tuesday, it said that the US shows its goodwill by removing sanctions from designated persons "who take concrete and meaningful actions to restore democratic order" and "speak out against abuses committed by the 'illegitimate' Maduro regime." After the failed coup attempt, Washington seems to have reinvigorated its efforts to entice high-ranking officials to side with self-proclaimed 'interim president' Guaido, after he blamed the plotters' defeat on a lack of manpower and allies at high levels of the Venezuelan government. "We still need more soldiers, and maybe we need more officials of the regime to be willing to support it," Guaido said, effectively admitting that the broad military support of which he had boasted is non-existent. Pence also reiterated Washington's threat to impose sanctions against all 25 magistrates of the Supreme Court of Venezuela, which on Tuesday asked the Constituent Assembly to greenlight a criminal probe against seven opposition lawmakers. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will meet with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, on May 13 in Sochi as part of his official visit to Russia, Moscow said on Wednesday. The ministers will place particular emphasis on preparing Chinese President Xi Jinpings visit to Russia, according to Russias Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. Lavrov and Wang will discuss Venezuela, Syria, Afghanistan, as well as the situation on the Korean Peninsula. The meeting will also focus on the issue of preserving the Joint Comprehensive Action Plan on the Iranian nuclear program, she added. Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that Wang's 2-day visit, which will start on May 12, will set a stage for the annual exchange of visits by top leaders and to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of China-Russia diplomatic ties. Russian, Chinese foreign ministers to discuss Irans nuclear deal, other issues in Sochi on May 13 Russian, Chinese foreign ministers to discuss Irans nuclear deal, other issues in Sochi on May 13 Source : RT - Daily news The Indian Armed Forces are to be reinforced by more than 460 cutting-edge Russian-designed T-90 tanks in the near future. RT takes a closer look at what the advanced war machine has in store. The Indian Army is expected to purchase 464 upgraded T-90 'Bhishma' main battle tanks between 2022 and 2026, the Times of India reporter citing sources within the Defense Ministry. The military hardware acquired under the $1.93 billion contract will be deployed to Indias border with Pakistan to enhance its shock and awe capabilities. The tanks will be assembled at the Avadi Heavy Vehicle Factory (HVF) from prefabricated parts supplied by Russia. Moscow has extended the manufacturing license for New Delhi in early April. The Indian Army already has around 1,070 T-90 tanks as well as 2,400 older T-72 tanks and 124 domestic Arjun models in its 67 armor regiments. So, what capabilities do these new tanks have? 1. Control over battlefield in online mode One of the core features of the new T-90 variant is its highly sophisticated control system, which allows the crew to regularly get a full picture of the situation on the battlefield. The data are immediately transferred between the unmanned aerial vehicles, the command structure and reconnaissance units, military analyst Sergey Suvorov told RT, adding that all the information about the battlefield is available at the tank commanders computer. The new system makes it easier for a tank unit to exchange information online and adapt to the constantly changing environment as well as forms a unified information network. This new systems ideally fits Indias new strategy that involves agile integrated battle groups (IBGs) centered around the T-90 tanks, along with a mix of infantry, artillery, air defense, signals and engineers, backed by attack helicopters. Also on rt.com Russian, Indian warships join Chinese Navys 70th anniversary celebrations (PHOTOS, VIDEOS) 2. Impenetrable defense The Russian developers managed to greatly increase the tanks defense characteristics. All manned compartments are equipped with a state-of-the-art anti-spar liner made from special cloth from aramid fiber. Tanks are also capable of surviving a head-on hit by any type of modern munition. At the same time, their radar visibility has been reduced, thus making it harder for the enemy to target T-90s. The war machines are also outfitted with new universal explosive reactive armor systems Relict, which increase the tanks defense against hollow-charge and sub-caliber munitions. The new adjustments were made as the engineers studied the experience the Russian forces gained during the fighting against terrorists in Syria. 3. Guided missiles & high maneuverability The tanks also received a brand new 125mm canon, which increase the shooting accuracy by 30 percent and effective shooting distance by 15 percent. The weapon is now capable of using a whole range of modern high-precision munitions, ranging from preprogrammed remote detonation high-explosive munitions to even guided missiles, according to the manufacturers. Despite all these upgrades, the tanks weight remained the same and is not expected to exceed 50 tons, making sure the war machine would still have high speed and maneuverability characteristics. 4. Howling success T-90 is considered to be one of the most popular tanks on the international arms market. Russia has sold more than 1,500 these tanks over 20 years. Apart from India, the vehicles were also acquired by seven other nations, including Azerbaijan, Vietnam, Iraq, Syria and Uganda. Egypt is also planning to start assembling T-90 under Russias license starting in late 2019. Indias neighbor and regional rival Pakistan is also discussing a deal with Moscow, which would involve purchasing some 360 such tanks. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! The massive decline in Russia-Ukraine trade has incurred major losses for the Ukrainian economy, according to Ukraines Federation of Employers which claims the financial damage is 13 times as much as losses suffered by Moscow. Anti-Russian rhetoric adopted by Kiev in recent years resulted in a drastic reduction of trade turnover between the neighboring states, and stripped Ukraine of 10 percent of its gross domestic product (GDP), according to Sergey Salivon, the head of the economic policy department at the business association. Ukraines cross-border trade with Russia shrunk more than three times over five years through 2018, the official said in interview with CapitalTV. At the same time, our exports dropped more than four times as imports from Russia fell by less than three times. The expert highlighted that those calculations do not include Ukraines purchases of Russian gas from Slovakia and other European countries. Also on rt.com Ukraine sues Gazprom over anticompetitive practices to retain earnings from transit of Russian gas If we take into account gas imports, well see the mutual trade decline of about US$11.5 billion, Salivon said, stressing that the number accounts for only 0.8 percent of Russias GDP, while for Ukraine its ten percent of the economy. Ukraine is aware that Kiev is losing much more than Moscow due to a deterioration in political and economic relations, according to political analyst Aleksandr Dudchak, who says that Kievs policies in recent years have made the Ukrainian economy non-competitive due to a sluggish development of technology. Ukrainian business had been trying to defy the restrictions but most of the businessmen turned out to be under tight scrutiny of the countrys security service, the expert told RT, stressing that it was difficult for businesses to overcome the crisis under a total dictatorship. Also on rt.com Russian fuel embargo could lead to collapse of Ukraines economy, oil major warns Trade relations between Russia and Ukraine saw a significant decline over the past five years. In 2015, Moscow suspended the free trade zone deal with Ukraine following Kievs decision to sign an association agreement with the EU. Ukraine was automatically included on Russias counter-sanctions list against the bloc, introduced by Moscow in 2014 in response to European penalties over re-unification with Crimea and Russias alleged military involvement in Ukraines eastern regions. Ukrainian authorities imposed an import ban on a wide range of food produce from Russia, including meat and fish, coffee, dairy products, chocolate and confectionery, grains, cigarettes, beer, and many others. Last year, Kiev added fertilizers to its endless list of restrictions. In December 2018, Kiev extended the measures for another year. The country also introduced sanctions against several Russian individuals and entities. In response, the Russian government banned imports of more than 50 Ukrainian goods, worth $510 million. According to Moscow, the restrictions can be lifted if Kiev gives up its own restrictions targeting Russian goods. Also on rt.com Ukrainian president-elect Zelensky to be a host of MAGIC SHOW on Russian TV The trade spat intensified earlier this year, when the Kremlin banned exports of oil and petroleum products to Ukraine shortly after Kiev expanded the list of trade restrictions targeting more Russian goods. Moreover, Moscow banned imports of clothes, bulldozers, pipes and pipe-laying vehicles, among other goods. The measure targets goods worth $250 million as of last year, according to Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev. The restrictions on oil exports to Ukraine are currently the most vital, according to president of the Kiev-based independent Ukrainian Analytical Center, Aleksander Okhrimenko. The fact that we stopped purchasing the wire is not serious. But banning sales of crude to Ukraine is huge, while Kievs sanctions against Russia are simulation. Ukrainian authorities cannot inflict any harm to the Russian economy, Okhrimenko said in an interview with RT. The expert stressed that lifting the mutual restrictions wouldnt help to restore the previous volume of mutual trade. For more stories on economy & finance visit RT's business section The US is abusing its power in lifting a ban on lawsuits against the Cuban government, according to Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell. He also lashed out at Washingtons cowboy intervention threats against Venezuela. Borrell roasted US President Donald Trumps administration policies in Latin America during a TV interview on Wednesday. He was particularly fired up about Washingtons decision last month to begin enforcing the 1996 Helms-Burton act, which essentially allows Cuban-Americans to sue the Cuban government over property confiscated during the 1959 Socialist revolution. This is further proof of a lack of cooperation on the part of the US administration, Borrell said, adding that Spain opposes the measure and considers it an abuse of power. This is going to open a legal battle, we will go to the WTO [World Trade Organization]. The US is taking the controversial step in order to put pressure on Havana over their alleged role in assisting the embattled Venezuelan government during a coup attempt by opposition forces backed by Washington. Also on rt.com Number of US tourists to Cuba almost DOUBLES amid Trumps sanctions & threats While Spain has called for the formation of a group composed of EU and Latin American governments aimed at facilitating new elections in Venezuela, the US has been saber-rattling, saying that military options to enforce regime change are still on the table. The contact group which we are part of is not on the same wavelength as the US administration, which is like a cowboy who says look at me, I will draw my gun. Although stressing that Spain does not consider it a mistake to have recognized Juan Guaido as the legitimate president of Venezuela, he emphasized the need for a peaceful, negotiated and democratic solution to the crisis gripping the country. Think your friends would be interested? Share this story! The irresponsible policies of the US government have led to an unacceptable situation in which the multilateral pact on Irans nuclear program may fail, the Russian foreign minister said after Tehran suspended part of the deal. Sergey Lavrov criticized the US during a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Javad Zarif, who personally brought a letter from his government informing Russia about Tehrans latest decision on the nuclear agreement. Russia is one of the signatories of the 2015 document, also known as JCPOA, which offered Iran relief of economic sanctions in exchange for accepting restriction on its nuclear industry. As I understand, our main task here is to discuss the unacceptable situation, which has unfolded around the JCPOA as a result of irresponsible behavior by the United States, the Russian diplomat said before negotiations with the Iranians. Also on rt.com Iran stops selling excess uranium, will enrich to higher level in 60 days unless Europe acts Iran on Wednesday announced that it will no longer observe the limits on reserves of enriched uranium and heavy water established by the deal, calling it response to US withdrawal from the JCPOA exactly a year ago. Unless European signatories of the agreement deliver on their promise to protect Iranian economy from unilateral sanctions reimposed by the US over the last 12 months, Iran would take further action, the countrys President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised address. All signatories were formally notified about Tehrans decision, with Zarif using his coinciding visit to Moscow to offer personal explanations about why it was taken. to RT newsletter to get stories the mainstream media wont tell you. Venezuela will prosecute six lawmakers who backed opposition leader Juan Guaidos failed coup last week, the Supreme Court has ruled, hinting that more prosecutions were in the works for high treason and conspiracy. The Venezuelan Supreme Court has announced the prosecution of six lawmakers on charges including treason against the fatherland, conspiracy, insurrection, civil rebellion, usurpation of functions, and public instigation, the body said in a statement issued on Tuesday. The document named Henry Ramos Allsup, a former National Assembly speaker, Luis Florida, Marianela Magallanes, Simon Calzadilla, Americo de Grazia, and Richard Blanco. Also on rt.com Guaido blames coup backers for failing to follow through in Venezuela The Constituent Assembly subsequently stripped all six of their parliamentary immunity, plus Edgar Zambrano, who joined Guaido at the military base where he kicked off the botched uprising with a call for the military to abandon President Nicolas Maduros government last Tuesday. Assembly speaker Diosdado Cabello added that three more lawmakers complicit in the coup had been identified and would also be prosecuted. The Assembly has promised to suspend the immunity of any other lawmakers found to be involved in the short-lived attempt to overthrow Maduro, which triggered two days of rioting and resulted in five deaths. The criminal probe will be led by Attorney General Tarek William Saab. In addition to the prosecutions, Saab said, authorities have issued 18 arrest warrants against civilians and military plotters involved in the coup. US Vice President Mike Pence has threatened the Venezuelan Supreme Court with sanctions for doing their job, accusing the judges of acting as a political tool for a regime that usurps democracy, indicts political prisoners and promotes authoritarianism. Pence also rewarded President Nicolas Maduros former spy chief, General Manuel Ricardo Figueroa, for becoming the highest-ranking member of the government to defect last week, holding him up as an example to the rest of the military, who have thus far proved profoundly uninterested in joining the US-backed opposition. Also on rt.com Pence lifts US sanctions from Venezuela's defector general, hopes to inspire more turncoats Guaido, who declared himself president in January, was stripped of his parliamentary immunity last month for violating a ban on leaving the country, but Maduros government has neither charged nor arrested him. Like this story? Share it with a friend! Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged that his country will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weaponry after Tehran said it intends to start rowing back on its nuclear deal commitments. This morning, on my way here, I heard that Iran intends to pursue its nuclear program, Netanyahu said on Wednesday in a speech marking Israels Memorial Day. We will not allow Iran to achieve nuclear weaponry. We will continue to fight those who would kill us. Also on rt.com Iran stops selling excess uranium, will enrich to higher level in 60 days unless Europe acts DETAILS TO FOLLOW We will not allow Iran to achieve nuclear weaponry - Netanyahu We will not allow Iran to achieve nuclear weaponry - Netanyahu Source : RT - Daily news China Daily | May 07, 2019 Boeing engineers identified a fault with a pilot warning system on 737 Max aircraft in 2017, a year before the deadly Lion Air crash, the company said on Sunday, Agence France-Presse reported. Boeing said that management was unaware of the issue until the October 2018 crash in Indonesia, which killed 189 people. The planes were not grounded worldwide until after another 737 Max, operated by Ethiopian Airlines, crashed in March, leaving a further 157 people dead. According to Boeing, a supposedly standard piece of equipment that tells pilots about disagreements between angle-of-attack indicators - which measure the plane's angle vis-a-vis oncoming air to warn of impending stalls - did not activate unless an additional optional indicator was purchased by airlines. That left airlines that did not buy the optional indicator, including both Lion Air and Ethiopian Airlines, without the safety feature. It is not clear whether having the warning light would have prevented either the Lion Air or Ethiopian Airlines crashes, The Associated Press reported. Faulty angle-of-attack, or AOA, indicator information may have played a role in both of the deadly crashes, causing the 737 Max anti-stall system to unnecessarily activate and push the nose down toward the ground even as pilots fought to maintain altitude. "In 2017, within several months after beginning 737 Max deliveries, engineers at Boeing identified that the 737 Max display system software did not correctly meet the AOA Disagree alert requirements," the aircraft manufacturer said in a statement. "The software delivered to Boeing linked the AOA Disagree alert to the AOA indicator, which is an optional feature," it said. "Accordingly, the software activated the AOA Disa-gree alert only if an airline opted for the AOA indicator." A Boeing review "determined that the absence of the AOA Disagree alert did not adversely impact airplane safety or operation", concluding that "the existing functionality was acceptable until the alert and the indicator could be delinked in the next planned display system software update", the company said. "Senior company leadership was not involved in the review and first became aware of this issue in the aftermath of the Lion Air accident." Boeing is working to fix the software that pitched the planes' noses down based on faulty sensor reading, and to provide pilots with more information about the plane's automation. It hopes to win approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration and foreign regulators to get the Max flying again before summer is over. When it does, the company said, the sensor warning light will be standard, AP reported. Nearly 400 Max jets were grounded at airlines worldwide after the Ethiopia crash, Xinhua News Agency reported. In addition to getting the government out of areas it should not be in, there is an equally urgent task: strengthening the government in areas where it does poorly or is virtually absent. These include regulating and certifying educational or medical service providers; apprehending and successfully prosecuting economic offenders; and regulating haphazard development and environmental despoliation without blocking growth. For growth to be equitable and sustained, we have to reform our education, skilling, healthcare and welfare systems significantly. Our record on primary education is dismal, with. Parents have responded by increasingly migrating their children to private schooling, but private schools are only slightly better than government schools, and in their current form will not solve the problem of low education quality. It does not get better at higher grades our scores in the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) exams were so low that we refused to participate again in that international benchmarking exercise. The poor quality of human capital may already be constraining growth (industry is increasingly concerned about the large and growing skill deficit) and limits its inclusiveness and may prompt a premature move to replace workers with machines. Healthcare is another area of major concern. In particular, the public system has largely been abandoned by those patients who are seeking regular primary care. They prefer paying for private treatment even though many practitioners are unqualified and prescribe the wrong treatment in more than 70 per cent of the cases. This is partly a consequence of the failure of the public sector: public sector practitioners are often absent, and when present they put very little effort into treatment. This is especially worrying because dealing with the large, growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the many, only partly solved, child and maternal health issues would need front line providers to lead the charge. It is unclear how the recent Ayushman Bharat insurance scheme, which is the main current effort to deal with healthcare issues, will address these problems. Similar concerns apply in the education sector. A failure to ensure high-quality education and healthcare provision means that a substantial proportion of our future labour force will grow up underequipped with skills needed in the labour market and suffering from the long-term consequences of stunting and wasting. Much of the middle-aged population will be dealing with debilitating diseases that could have been prevented or controlled. This obviously limits the sustainability and the inclusiveness of growth. The environment is, of course, a critical challenge to the continuation of our growth and to the extent to which growth translates into improved quality of life. Many of our cities are increasingly experiencing levels of pollution that border on the toxic. If we cannot manage the environment at our present level of development, greater growth will make matters far worse. The consequences of environmentally myopic policies are reflected, for example, in the rapidly falling water table in many parts of the country, which threatens the sustainability of our agriculture. Relatedly, climate change has already had significant effects on productivity and the quality of life in India and we need to be at the forefront of global efforts to combat it. That our current policies do not add up to an inclusive and sustainable growth agenda is reflected in growing agitation across our society. Agrarian unrest, with the accompanying constant demand for farm loan waivers, is now compounded by demands for some form of government support from sections of society that are nowhere near the poorest. This reflects Indians growing anxiety about their future and that of their children in an increasingly winner-take-all society, where they often end up on the losing side. Our welfare schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awas Yojana are mostly directed towards the very poor (the one exception being the public distribution system [PDS]), so they do not serve the purpose of protecting those outside that group. Without stronger, sustainable and inclusive growth we simply do not have the resources to expand our welfare schemes significantly, but if we do generate that growth, not only will there be less demand for welfare but there will be more resources to service any demand. The bottom line is that while we have performed creditably in the last twenty-five years across different administrations, there is no room for complacency given our economic challenges. They are mounting. In 2016, Rajesh Raut started driving an Uber taxi in Mumbai, hoping he could earn more than the $215 he received each month for making flatbreads at a roadside stall. Thanks to attractive cash incentives offered as Uber lured drivers in one of its biggest markets outside the United States, Raut's monthly earnings jumped to $1,280. He managed his car loan and home rent with ease, and sent more money than before back to his family in a village in eastern India. But as Uber slashed incentives, Raut's earnings dwindled swiftly. His income dropped to about $540 a month this year and he defaulted on his taxi loan payments. Deciding after an accident that he couldn't afford to fix the vehicle, he quit Uber and now his monthly income, from a new job driving a truck, has crashed to $200. "There is no benefit in driving for Uber ... my life was much better just as a cook," said 26-year-old Raut. Former Uber India executives say incentives were sharply cut in early 2017 because of growing pressure from the US head office to improve financial performance ahead of an initial public offering (IPO), which values it at as much as $90 billion. Uber is set to debut on May 10 on Wall Street. In interviews in the metropolises of Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru, more than 35 drivers said discontent against Uber was growing. Mounting debt from taxi loans was a key concern. Many drivers took loans to buy cabs, while some leased cars from the companies themselves. To be sure, many drivers from Uber are still earning more than they could get in other blue-collar jobs in India. The national minimum wage in India is only about $2.50 a day. "It's not that we are making a fortune, but it does give us a livelihood," said Prakash K C, who earns around 38,000 rupees ($548) a month driving an Uber in Bengaluru city. Uber has acknowledged the risk of unhappiness among its drivers. "As we aim to reduce driver incentives to improve our financial performance, we expect driver dissatisfaction will generally increase," it said in its IPO filing. DOUBLING DOWN ON INDIA Uber currently operates in 40 Indian cities and the country accounts for an estimated 11 percent of its global rides. Uber said last year it would double down on India investments after it sold its Southeast Asia business to Singapore's Grab Holdings. Grab does not operate taxis in India. Uber started its India operations in 2013, three years after local rival Ola launched a ride-hailing service. Both are backed by Japan's Softbank Group Corp. Ola, which operates in 125 cities in India, last year said it plans to go public in four years. Both gave attractive cash incentives to drivers and offered very low fares to riders when they started operations. It wasn't uncommon for Uber drivers to boast of monthly earnings of 100,000 rupees, which is the typical salary of a junior multinational executive in the country. There were perks too. In a January 2017 company video, Uber drivers are seen entering a luxury hotel in Chandigarh city, where guards open their taxi doors and welcome them. Sitting and smiling with their families in a large hall with chandeliers, some of the drivers receive prizes such as an Apple iPhone, holiday package and a car. In early 2017, the company slashed incentives by around 30 percent overnight, said three former Uber India executives, who declined to be named. The total incentive cut in recent years may well be far higher: research firm RedSeer Consulting estimates online taxi operators driver incentives, as a percentage of gross booking totals, fell from 60 percent in 2015 to 18 percent last year. That came at a time when prices of diesel, used in many taxis in India, surged by about 30 percent. One of the former Uber executives told Reuters the company should have taken more care as drivers were its most important stakeholder. The decision to cut incentives sharply had disappointed several members of Uber's India team back then, the executive added. LOWER INCENTIVES Last October, hundreds of drivers went on strike in Mumbai and New Delhi, demanding higher fares to meet rising fuel costs. Drivers say they ended the strike as taxi firms assured some fare concessions, but more needs to be done. Some Uber drivers in the United States and Britain have called for a strike on Wednesday in protest against what they call low pay. An Uber spokesman told Reuters drivers were at the heart of its service and the company was committed to ensuring drivers get sustainable earnings, even though some were making less than they did three years ago. "Uber continues to invest heavily in the well being of drivers and their families," the spokesman said, adding it was helping them access life and health insurance, as well as loans. Ola did not respond to a request for comment. To mark its IPO, Uber says it plans to pay $300 million to more than 1.1 million drivers, a so-called "appreciation reward". Qualified drivers in the United States, Uber said in its filing, will get $100 to $10,000 based on trips taken. The Uber spokesman said thousands of drivers in India earned the reward, but did not provide an exact number. A driver in New Delhi showed his Uber app that said he had received an $84 reward, while another in the city, Arvind Kumar, received $165. "There are a lot of troubles, this amount is nothing ... all my dreams are broken," said Kumar, who earns half the $1,432 per month he made five years ago. He said the drop in earnings had scuttled plans to provide his children with private-school education. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More The Enforcement Directorate is probing Etihads 2014 investment in JetPrivilege Private Limited (JPPL), the company that operated Jet Airways frequent-flier programme. A senior official in the ED told Moneycontrol that Etihads Rs 900-crore investment in JetPrivilege may have been a violation of FDI limit norms. Etihad picked up a 50.1 percent stake in JPPL through the investment. The ED has called the senior management of Jet Airways next week to understand the deal structure. When contacted, Etihad said it had not been contacted by the ED. Etihad acquired its share in JPPL nearly six years ago in compliance with all regulatory requirements. Any queries relating to JPPL should be made directly to them. Jet Airways, which recently shut down its operations, did not reply to an email seeking comment. Another source told Moneycontrol that the ED is also separately looking into Jet founder Naresh Goyals investments in various foreign airlines. This is not the first time Jet Airways is being probed by authorities. Recently, the income tax department searched offices of Jet Airways and found discrepancies in their books. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs then commenced investigation of Jets books and found violation of companies law. A report will be submitted by MCA by mid-May. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Furthering its expansion plan, budget carrier IndiGo may soon get its hands on some more Airbus SE jets as the two companies are in talks for a large order, Bloomberg reported. The airline may buy the longer version of the plane maker's narrow-body jet, according to its CEO Ronojoy Dutta. In the next two years, the existing orders of IndiGo will be completed and these new deals will materialize after that. Dutta said the company is considering Airbus' long-distance A321Neo LR and the yet to be released A321 XLR. "When we order, we'll order in bulk for sure. I can't give you a tentative number but it will be large. We need longer range," Dutta said in an interview with Bloomberg. It is possible that the deal could be multi-billion-dollar order, going by the previous orders the airline has placed. IndiGo's smallest order till date was 100 A320 jets in 2005, in a deal valued $6 billion at the time. The most basic aircraft of Airbus is now at least $100 million each, so the order could be well over $10 billion. IndiGo is one of the very few players in the Indian aviation market which has the resources to go ahead with its expansion plans. It has also been planning to start flights to Europe. The carrier has been able to maintain its revenue even as its competitors are bleeding due to price wars and rising fuel prices. It has over 50 percent market share, but Dutta wants more for the airline. "There are a lot of airlines ahead of us. We would like to be one of the biggest, largest and profitable airlines in the world," he said. If we analyse IndiGo's previous orders, it can be found that the airline always buys in bulk from Airbus, buying 430 jets from the European planemaker on top of its earlier order of 100 older A320 models. IndiGo is one of the most loyal customers of Airbus, which helps it get better rates and maintenance terms from the company. In the near future, all of IndiGo's orders will go to Airbus, but the company has not ruled out Boeing completely. The company is also in talks with CFM International, a JV between General Electric Co and Safran SA and current supplier Pratt & Whitney for a new turbine order, informed Dutta. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Expanding its international horizon, leading Indian airline IndiGo plans to start services to Chinese cities of Chengdu and Guangzhou. Industry sources said the airline has got the nod from Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), to start services from Delhi and Kolkata. "At this stage, we are in the process of securing the necessary approvals to operate into China, and as soon as we receive all the requisite permissions from the Governments to operate, we will inform our key stakeholders accordingly," an IndiGo spokesperson told Moneycontrol. "We are evaluating all such opportunities to expand our network and provide many more choices to our customers," the executive added. The spokesperson didn't provide a timeline for the services to China. At present, Air India is the only domestic airline to have flights connecting the two countries. Jet Airways, which suspended its operations on April 17, used to have a Mumbai-Shanghai-San Francisco flight. But that ran for less than a year and was stopped in January 2009. Though there were plans to resume the services in 2016, it didn't fructify. International expansion IndiGo has been expanding its international network, adding nearly 10 in a year to a total of 18 destinations as of now. These include Hong Kong, Bangkok and Phuket. "With our existing fleet and the new A321neo aircraft, IndiGo will have the capability to reach cities in China, Middle East and South East Asia," said the spokesperson. Istanbul was the first international destination that the airline flew to with its new A321neo, first of which was inducted in December last year. The Istanbul service commenced in March. IndiGo eventually may have 14 flights to China. While it has competition in Air India from India, it will also have to contend with Chinese rivals, including Air China and China Southern. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Life and general insurance companies are planning to seek a clarification from the insurance regulator on its position on bank-led firms. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has in the past expressed discomfort over banks holding large stakes in insurance companies. "With a majority of insurance companies having banks as promoters and investors, we want a clarity from Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) on their stand on this issue," said the chief executive of a large private life insurance firm. Sources said that a few banks have expressed their interest in acquiring stake in insurance companies. However, they are waiting for a nod from the banking regulator on the next course of action. Till now, IRDAI has not expressed any concerns about banks holding large stakes in insurance companies. They have only stated that banks must seek permission from the banking regulators for stake purchase. Banks who wish to hold 5 percent or more stake in an insurance company have to explicitly seek permission from RBI for this purpose. In an interview to CNBC-TV18, Axis Bank CEO Amitabh Chaudhry said that a possible deal with Max Life Insurance can only move forward if they have the support of the regulators. He added that RBI has made it clear that they are not in favour of banks holding a large stake in insurance companies. In the past, RBI expressed concerns about large institutional investors like Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) holding a high quantum of stake in banks. Since both banks and insurance companies are in the financial services sector, lenders use insurers as a channel for growth. On the other hand, insurers with bank promoters find it easier to sell products using the branch networks of the banks. A host of state-owned banks like Allahabad Bank, Andhra Bank and Indian Overseas Bank are looking to sell their stakes in their insurance ventures. Responding to this, a few private banks have expressed interest in the venture but clarity is being awaited on this matter. Once IRDAI gives a clarification on this matter, deals that are stuck can be taken forward. Almost 50-55 percent of business for insurance companies comes in from banks and bank-led distribution channels. Just two days before the deadline for putting in bids, Jet Airways has got its first proposal from an unlikely group of investors. The group includes two little known entrepreneurs: a British, an NRI, and investment firms Future Trend Capital Investments, Redcliffe Capital and Adi Partners. Future Trend and Adi Partners earlier teamed up with Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal to submit an expression of interest for the airline. Redcliffe Capital submitted the EoI along with Think Capital. But, none of those was shortlisted to put in a bid. "We submitted the bid last night," said Jason Unsworth, the founder of airline startup Atmosphere Intercontinental Airlines. The British entrepreneur earlier wrote to Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube, offering to take over the troubled airline. Also Read: Enforcement Directorate begins probe into Etihad's 2014 investment in JetPrivilege He is joined by Lakshay Uttam, the founder of My World Ventures - an Amsterdam-based firm with interests in hospitality and aviation. "We have also been in touch with Naresh Goyal. He will be an invaluable asset to have," added Uttam. But later in the day, Goyal's daughter Namrata Goyal took on to Twitter to clarify that her father was not part of the consortium. Reacting to a tweet by Unsworth who said the former Chairman was part of the group's proposal, Namrata said "this information is completely misleading and mischievous." Nevertheless, interest of these investors, coming at a time when there are worries that none of the shortlisted may put in a bid, will be a relief for Jet Airways' employees. But, it remains to be seen if SBI Caps, which is overseeing the bidding process, will accept the bid as none of the investors was shortlisted. The shortlisted bidders are Etihad Airways, TPG Capital, Indigo Partners and the NIIF. May 10 is the deadline to submit bids for Jet Airways. Availability of funds Jet Airways has debts of over Rs 8,000 crore, and its liabilities - including arrears to lessors, vendors and employees - may total close to Rs 20,000 crore. This means that any bidder will have to come with deep pockets. And it doesn't help that must of Jet Airways assets - airport slots, human resource and aircraft - have been taken and are in the process of being distributed to its peers. The two factors thus make Jet Airways, which suspended operations on April 17, less of an attractive target. But both Unsworth and Uttam reiterate that they have got commitment for funds. "We will have significantly good funds to revive the airline and for operations. We have to look into first the debt settlement," said Uttam, whose company is setting up hotels in South East Asia. "I'm also involved with a new airline in Africa," he added. But Uttam declined to give further details. Despite not being shortlisted, their bid may be considered by SBI Caps after the conclusion of the bidding process. Earlier, a group of Jet Airways employees had approached with a proposal to take over the airline. They had met SBI Caps, which told them that lenders may consider any other proposals,after conclusion of bidding, and if the said process does not provide a satisfactory solution. Drug firm Natco Pharma on May 8 said its marketing partner Alvogen has received final ANDA nod from USFDA for chest pain tablets. "The company is pleased to announce that its marketing partner Alvogen has received the final approval of Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Nitroglycerin Sublingual Tablets USP, 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg, and 0.6 mg," Natco Pharma said in a BSE filing. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are used to treat episodes of angina (chest pain) in people who have coronary artery disease (narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart), it said. Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, the company said, markets this drug under its brand Nitrostat Sublingual Tablets in the same strengths mentioned above. As per IQVIA data, Nitroglycerin Sublingual Tablets had total annual sales of around $77.3 million in the US market, for the year ending 2018, the company said. Shares of Natco Pharma were trading 0.57 percent lower at Rs 530.30 apiece on the BSE. On May 6, the local arm of American food and beverages company PepsiCo Inc. said it will withdraw its case against local farmers in Gujarat over intellectual property rights infringement. PepsiCo had alleged that the local farmers in Gujarat have been cultivating a specific variety of potato (FL 2027), without permission, which was developed by PepsiCo for its Lays potato chips. PepsiCo has contract farming arrangements with farmers across the country for potato cultivation. The American firm buys back the potato --with lower moisture content suited for crispier wafers -- directly from these farmers. PepsiCos case was against Fulchandbhai Kachchawa, who along with his brother Surershbhai Kachchawa, runs a cold storage chain. Incidentally, Kachchawa brothers have major stakes in local firms, including Tirupati Balaji Chips Potato which is the countrys second largest potato chips maker. That specifically is the reason why PepsiCo filed the case. During the past few years, Balaji has eaten up PepsiCos shares in the potato chips market in western India, especially in Gujarat, where the local firm has become the market leader. According to data compiled by Euromonitor International, the market share of PepsiCos flagship snacks brand Lays almost halved to 4.4 percent in 2017, from more than 8 percent (retail value) of Indias savoury snacks segment in 2013. If PepsiCos claims are to be believed, Balajis popularity comes from the very fact that it uses the same potato as PepsiCo. Now, the question is does PepsiCo own the FL 2027 variety of potato? According to The Protection of Plant varieties and Farmers Rights Act, 2001, which protects the rights of Indian farmers, a farmer shall be deemed to be entitled to save, use, sow, re-sow, exchange, share or sell his farm produce including seed of a variety protected under this Act in the same manner as he was entitled before the coming into force of this Act: Provided that the farmer shall not be entitled to sell the branded seed of a variety protected under this Act. That means that the regulations permit the Kachchawa brothers to sell potato seeds, or potatoes, to Balaji, if they are unbranded. This, however, is not the case globally. The International Intellectual Property regulations ensure that breeders (of plants or seeds) have sole rights over the varieties they develop, disregarding rights of farmers. Some countries prohibits saving, re-using and selling seeds by farmers to stop replication of seeds, while some countries have specific norms that prohibit companies from having exclusive control to reduce monopoly. Still, PepsiCos probably did not back track from litigation because of its seemingly weak legal standing (a verdict in this case would have set the precedent for the applicability of the farmers rights law). PepsiCo likely withdrew the suit because of social and political pressures. Besides non-government farmers welfare associations, both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and opposition Congress raised their voices hoping to encash on farmers sentiments during the elections. Simply put, PepsiCo picked up a wrong time to file this case. By agreeing to withdraw the litigation, PepsiCo did not just lose one case. It might have just lost its grip over 10,000 Indian contract farmers who have been producing potato for the American company. This episode has lessons for other companies that depend on a similar method of contract farming and try to enforce their exclusivity. On the flip side, this could be a blow to corporate efforts to improve productivity in the Indian farm sector as well. Indian farmers could also possibility lose out on access to new, improved varieties of seeds as an outcome of this case. Interestingly, two of PepsiCos rivals, ITC and Coca-Cola, have a different way of working with farmers. According to these two companies, none of them are into contract farming arrangements. ITC, which sells potato chips, has developed a specific variety of potato for making chips. But, according to ITC, farmers are free to sell their produce to anyone and ITC is just one of the buyers. Both Coca-Cola and ITC claim to work with farmers to help them increase yield. Will PepsiCo now look at a different model to ensure raw material supplies? Only time will tell. The diplomatic cable from Beijing arrived in Washington late on May 3 night, with systematic edits to a nearly 150-page draft trade agreement that would blow up months of negotiations between the world's two largest economies, according to three US government sources and three private sector sources briefed on the talks. The document was riddled with reversals by China that undermined core US demands, the sources told Reuters. In each of the seven chapters of the draft trade deal, China had deleted its commitments to change laws to resolve core complaints that caused the United States to launch a trade war: Theft of US intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation. US President Donald Trump responded in a tweet on May 5 vowing to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent on May 10 timed to land in the middle of a scheduled visit by China's Vice Premier Liu He to Washington to continue trade talks. The United States said on May 8 the higher tariffs would go into effect on May 10, according to a notice posted on the Federal Register. Trump said on Wednesday that China is mistaken if it hopes to negotiate trade later with a Democratic presidential administration. "The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to 'negotiate' with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats," Trump tweeted. Trump also said he would be happy to keep tariffs on Chinese imports in place. The stripping of binding legal language from the draft struck directly at the highest priority of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer - who views changes to Chinese laws as essential to verifying compliance after years of what US officials have called empty reform promises. Lighthizer has pushed hard for an enforcement regime more like those used for punitive economic sanctions such as those imposed on North Korea or Iran than a typical trade deal. "This undermines the core architecture of the deal," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the talks. 'PROCESS OF NEGOTIATION' Spokespeople for the White House, the US Trade Representative and the US Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a briefing on May 8 that working out disagreements over trade was a "process of negotiation" and that China was not "avoiding problems". Geng referred specific questions on the trade talks to the Commerce Ministry, which did not respond immediately to faxed questions from Reuters. Lighthizer and US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin were taken aback at the extent of the changes in the draft. The two cabinet officials on Monday told reporters that Chinese backtracking had prompted Trump's tariff order but did not provide details on the depth and breadth of the revisions. Liu last week told Lighthizer and Mnuchin that they needed to trust China to fulfill its pledges through administrative and regulatory changes, two of the sources said. Both Mnuchin and Lighthizer considered that unacceptable, given China's history of failing to fulfill reform pledges. One private-sector source briefed on the talks said the last round of negotiations had gone very poorly because "China got greedy." "China reneged on a dozen things, if not more ... The talks were so bad that the real surprise is that it took Trump until Sunday to blow up," the source said. "After 20 years of having their way with the US, China still appears to be miscalculating with this administration." FURTHER TALKS THIS WEEK The rapid deterioration of negotiations rattled global stock markets, bonds and commodities this week. Until Sunday, markets had priced in the expectation that officials from the two countries were close to striking a deal. Investors and analysts questioned whether Trump's tweet was a negotiating ploy to wring more concessions from China. The sources told Reuters the extent of the setbacks in the revised text were serious and that Trump's response was not merely a negotiating strategy. On Wednesday morning, US stock market indexes were mostly weaker again, pointing to a third straight day of losses on Wall Street. The S&P 500 has fallen more than 2 percent so far this week. Yields on benchmark US Treasury securities fell to the lowest in more than a month. Chinese negotiators said they couldn't touch the laws, said one of the government sources, calling the changes "major." Changing any law in China requires a unique set of processes that can't be navigated quickly, said a Chinese official familiar with the talks. The official disputed the assertion that China was backtracking on its promises, adding that US demands were becoming more "harsh" and the path to a deal more "narrow" as the negotiations drag on. Liu is set to arrive in Washington on Thursday for two days of talks that just last week were widely seen as pivotal a possible last round before a historic trade deal. Now, US officials have little hope that Liu will come bearing any offer that can get talks back on track, said two of the sources. To avert escalation, some of the sources said, Liu would have to scrap China's proposed text changes and agree to make new laws. China would also have to move further towards the US position on other sticking points, such as demands for curbs on Chinese industrial subsidies and a streamlined approval process for genetically engineered US crops. The US administration said the latest tariff escalation would take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday (0401 GMT), hiking levees on Chinese products such as internet modems and routers, printed circuit boards, vacuum cleaners and furniture. The Chinese reversal may give China hawks in the Trump administration, including Lighthizer, an opening to take a harder stance. Mnuchin, who has been more open to a deal with improved market access, and at times clashed with Lighthizer, appeared in sync with Lighthizer in describing the changes to reporters on Monday, while still leaving open the possibility new tariffs could be averted with a deal. Trump's tweets left no room for backing down, and Lighthizer made it clear that, despite continuing talks, "come Friday, there will be tariffs in place." File image: Vijay Mallya Investigative agencies have found evidence to establish a link between fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya and lobbyist Deepak Talwar, according to a report by The Economic Times. Mallya and Talwar, who is detained in a corruption case, were very close, a source told the paper. Agencies found emails and SMSs between Mallya and Talwar, as well as their associates, the report said. The contents of the messages includes attempts to discourage the Bihar government from implementing a liquor ban, concerns over possible inclusion of Airbus in the Kingfisher loan scandal probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the release of a statement to the media after Mallya left for London in 2016. Moneycontrol could not independently verify the story. Executives from United Spirits (USL), previously owned by United Breweries (UBL), were a part of the communication regarding the liquor ban in Bihar, the report said. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had informed the court about a possible link between Mallya and Talwar in February, the report added. The Bihar government had in 2015 banned liquor with effect from 2016. One of Talwars associates sought data from USL about the human cost of the ban in an email with the header Presentation for interaction with Bihar government. The investigation found emails scheduling meetings with the state Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the chief secretary to make a case against the prohibition, the report said. Talwar had lobbied for Vijay Mallya and UB Group, a source told the paper. Mallya was also worried about the CBI including Airbus in the IDBI-Kingfisher bank loan case, the report said. Agencies found that, in October 2015, Mallya shared a media report with Talwar, titled "IDBI officials failed to alert on Kingfisher Airlines loan: CBI". Mallya sent a media statement to Talwar on March 7, 2016 regarding the Kingfisher loan default case and his departure to the UK. Budget carrier IndiGo is in the "process" of securing necessary "approvals" for entering China as part of its international route network expansion plans. The Gurugram-based airline had earlier this year said it was looking to enter markets like China, Vietnam, Myanmar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the CIS region among others. "With our existing fleet and the arrival of new A321 Neos, we will have the capability to serve China, Middle East and Southeast Asia," the airline told PTI May 8. At this stage, the airline is in the process of securing the necessary approvals to enter China, it said, adding it is evaluating opportunities for expanding the international network. However, according to some social media reports, the Civil Aviation Administration of China has already given the approval to IndiGo for flying into two cities. IndiGo has been allowed to operate seven flights a week to Chengdu and Guangzhou from New Delhi and Kolkata, respectively, as per these reports. IndiGo currently has a fleet of 225 planes comprising 207 Airbus A320s and A320 Neos, two A321 Neos and 16 regional jets comprising ATRs. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Realty firm Jaypee Infratech's Interim Resolution Professional (IRP) has opined that state-owned NBCC's revised bid was conditional and non-binding, which ran contrary to terms of the insolvency proceedings, sources said. The Committee of Creditors (CoC) is scheduled to meet on Thursday (May 9) to discuss NBCC's revised offer to acquire debt-laden Jaypee Infratech. The public sector unit has proposed infusion of Rs 200 crore equity capital, transfer of 950 acres of land worth Rs 5,000 crore to banks and completing construction of flats by July 2023 to settle an outstanding claim of Rs 23,723 crore of financial creditors. Sources said NBCC has put several conditions for the implementation of its plan, including a demand to extinguish an estimated income-tax liability of Rs 33,000 crore over a period of 30 years arising out of the transfer of land parcels from Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) to Jaypee Group. The IRP Anuj Jain has written to the CoC that NBCC's revised bid is conditional as the state-owned firm has stated that the plan will not be binding on it unless key reliefs such as extinguishing of income tax liability and a dispensation from seeking consent of YEIDA for any business transfer is granted, sources said. The IRP pointed out that the insolvency process approved by the CoC in December last year provided that the resolution plans from potential bidders should be binding and non-conditional, they added. The court-mandated deadline for completing the resolution plan for Japyee Infratech ended on May 6 and the CoC has sought an extension of the deadline. The Allahabad bench of the NCLT has posted the matter for hearing on May 21. The CoC had on May 3 rejected a bid of Mumbai-based Suraksha Realty group, which was the lone contender after NBCC's revised offer was rejected in absence of approvals from the government departments. NBCC has now got the approval from the relevant government authorities for its revised offer, which was submitted to the IRP on April 24. In its revised offer, NBCC has put several conditions for carrying out its commitment. Jaypee Infratech, which is a subsidiary of Jaypee Group's flagship firm Jaiprakash Associates Ltd (JAL), owes nearly Rs 9,800 crore to financial creditors. Also, Rs 13,839 crore has been admitted as financial debt of the homebuyers. Sources said NBCC, in the revised resolution plan, has offered to transfer 100 per cent equity in the Expressway SPV (special purpose vehicle) -- to be created by transferring Delhi-Agra Expressway assets of Jaypee Infratech -- to the banks. It has proposed that the banks should raise a minimum of Rs 2,000 crore against the Expressway SPV (by securitising its toll income) and provide Rs 1,500 crore from this amount to the state-owned company, which could utilise it for making upfront payments and to start construction on the stuck projects, sources said. The plan further provides for settling Rs 9,712 crore of claims of operational creditors, including Rs 3,334 crore by the income tax department, Rs 1,689 crore towards compensation to landowners and Rs 4,423 crore to YEIDA, by paying Rs 20 crore. Sources said NBCC has proposed Rs 62.40 crore upfront payment to buyers who had sought a refund. During the first round of insolvency proceedings, the Rs 7,350 crore bid of Lakshdeep, part of Suraksha group was rejected by lenders as it was found to be substantially lower than the company's net worth and assets as well as the liquidation value of about Rs 14,000 crore. Jaypee Group Chairman Manoj Gaur had promised to infuse Rs 2,000 crore to complete pending 20,000 apartments over the next four years. The crisis-hit group had submitted a Rs 10,000-crore plan before lenders in April 2018 as well, but the same was not accepted. JAL had submitted Rs 750 crore in the registry of the Supreme Court for the refund to buyers and the amount is lying with the NCLT. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Global brokerage firms maintained their rating on Vedanta on Wednesday after the metals & mining firms March quarter consolidated profit fell a 43.3 percent year-on-year (YoY) to Rs 3,218 crore. Profit in the year-ago period stood at Rs 5,675 crore. Profit attributable to owners declined 45.5 percent to Rs 2,615 crore compared to the same period last year, the company said in its filing. Revenue from operations fell 15.1 percent YoY to Rs 23,468 crore in the quarter ended March 2019. CLSA slashed its target price to Rs 135 from Rs 170 earlier. There are concerns over related party transaction which is likely to remain an overhang. EBITDA improved on a QoQ basis for aluminium & overseas zinc business, said the CLSA report. However, slow volume ramp-up in zinc & oil is a concern. Edelweiss also maintained its hold rating on Vedanta post March quarter results and slashed its target price to Rs 175 from Rs 200 earlier. "Vedantas Q4FY19 EBITDA was down 22 percent on a YoY basis but it met consensus owing to cost efficiencies at Zinc (Zn) International and aluminium (Al) divisions. Going ahead, despite sustained cost efficiencies at key divisions, we see lower Zn prices keeping earnings growth in check and stock performance muted," said the report. Heres what other global brokerage firms recommended on Vedanta post Q4 results: Morgan Stanley: Equal Weight| Target Rs 176 Morgan Stanley maintained its Equal Weight rating on Vedanta post Q4 results with a target price of Rs 176. The core EBITDA was in-line with estimates, but the focus remains on volume growth in zinc, aluminium, and oil & gas. The focus will also be on better cost management in the near term, said the note. Citigroup: Neutral| Target Rs 195 Citigroup maintained its Neutral rating on Vedanta post Q4 results with a target price of Rs 195. The Q4 EBITDA was in-line with estimates. There are still some concerns on parent leverage. : The above report is compiled from information available on public platforms. Moneycontrol.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions. May 08, 2019 / 08:46 AM IST Here are stocks that are in the news today: Results on May 8: Titan Company, Alembic Pharmaceuticals, Chennai Petroleum Corporation, CreditAccess Grameen, Dishman Carbogen Amcis, Dhanlaxmi Bank, Shriram Transport Finance, Tata Communications, Satin Creditcare Network, Alstone Textiles (India), Artemis Global Life Sciences, Artson Engineering, Axiscades Engineering, Dutron Polymers, EID Parry (India), Emami Paper Mills, Gillette India, Indraprastha Medical Corp, International Combustion (India), JK Paper, JMC Projects, JSW Holdings, KEC International, Kokuyo Camlin, Kopran, KSB, Landmarc Leisure Corporation, MAS Financial Services, Morarjee Textiles, Procter & Gamble Hygiene, Pranavaditya Spinning Mills, Rain Industries, RR MetalMakers India, Saregama India, Sharp India, Simplex Mills Company, Simplex Papers, Simplex Realty, Shriram Asset Management, Srikalahasthi Pipes, Trinity League India, Uttam Value Steels, Vertex Securities Listing on May 8: Neogen Chemicals Vedanta Q4: Consolidated profit falls 43.3 percent to Rs 3,218 crore versus Rs 5,675 crore; revenue declines 15.1 percent to Rs 23,468 crore versus Rs 27,630 crore YoY. Rashtriya Chemicals & Fertilizers (RCF) Q4: Profit jumps to Rs 48.47 crore versus Rs 29.54 crore; revenue rises to Rs 2,267 crore versus Rs 1,961 crore YoY. Star Cement Q4: Consolidated profit jumps to Rs 1.81 crore versus Rs 0.96 crore; revenue rises to Rs 534.43 crore versus Rs 523.3 crore YoY. Essel Propack Q4: Consolidated profit increases to Rs 52.38 crore versus Rs 44.79 crore; revenue rises to Rs 694 crore versus Rs 628 crore YoY. ABB Q1 : Net profit down 41.3% at Rs 116.2 crore Vs Rs 197.9 crore; revenue down 5.9% at Rs 1,850 crore Vs Rs 1,966.3 crore, QoQ CEAT Q4: Net profit down 16.4% at Rs 64.2 crore Vs Rs 76.8 crore; revenue up 4.4% at Rs 1,760.5 crore Vs Rs 1,686.1 crore, YoY BSE Q4: Net profit down 16.4% at Rs 51.9 crore Vs Rs 62.1 crore, revenue down 20% at Rs 115.7 crore Vs Rs 144.7 crore, YoY Mahindra Logistics Q4: Consolidated profit rises to Rs 23.91 crore versus Rs 20.88 crore; revenue increases to Rs 1,014.7 crore versus Rs 892.66 crore YoY. Ingersoll-Rand board meeting on May 16, 2019 to consider final dividend Gardner Denver Holdings Inc & Charm Merger Sub Inc made an open offer to acquire upto 82,07,680 equity shares at Rs 592.02 per share Alembic Pharmaceuticals: Company entered into a joint venture agreement with SPH SINE Pharmaceutical Laboratories Co Ltd, China & Adia (Shanghai) Pharma Co Ltd, China. Mindtree Launches QuikDeploy to Accelerate SAP S/4HANA Transitions FDC - Fire Incident occurred at company's Roha plant DHFL gets National Housing Bank approval for proposed divestment in Aadhar Housing Finance Indigrid approved the issue and allotment of 299,683,881 units of preferential shares to the institutional investors at the issue price of Rs 83.89 per unit against the floor price of Rs 83.89 per unit, aggregating to Rs 25,140.48 million Vakrangee announces alliance with Dish TV India UNAIDS has signed a non-exclusive Long-Term Agreement (LTA) with Trigyn Technologies' wholly owned subsidiary Trigyn Technologies Inc Analyst or Board Meet/Briefings Gujarat Sidhee Cement: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 24. Ramco Systems: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 22. Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 18. Praj Industries: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 16. Central Bank of India: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 15. Kaveri Seed Company: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 27. Mirc Electronics: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 29. Polycab India: Company will announce its March quarter earnings on May 14. United Breweries: Board to consider FY19 results & dividend on May 20. NCC: Board to consider FY19 results & dividend on May 24. IDFC: Board to consider FY19 results & dividend on May 24. KEI Industries: Board to consider FY19 results & dividend on May 21. Bulk Deals on May 7 Representative image live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Medlife, one of Indias fastest growing e-pharmacy, adopts the Omni channel route with a plan to have more than 250 brick and mortar stories, largely through acquisitions, by the end of this year. We are in advance talks to acquire two offline pharmacy retail chains both having around 70-80 stores each, said Tushar Kumar, Founder and CEO of Medlife in an interview to Moneycontrol. Kumar didnt disclose the size of these acquisitions, but said that it will be completed soon. One chain operates in North India, while the other is based in South India. Medlife also got a contract to operate 21 in-house pharmacies across various Fortis hospitals. As per the contract Medlife had agreed to pay a flat fee to Fortis. By end of this year we expect to have around 200 high street pharmacies and around 50 hospital pharmacies, Kumar said. As per Frost and Sullivan, the e-pharmacy market is estimated to be about Rs 3,500 crores in 2018, and is expected to grow at 63 percent annually to reach Rs 25,000 crore by 2022. The growth is largely led by deep discounts, convenience and THE growing adoption of technology. Medlife, for instance crossed the gross merchandising value (GMV) of Rs 1,000 crore run rate as of March 2019, and expects to achieve overall sales of 1,500 crore with a GMV rate of Rs 2000 crore by next financial year. Medlife has a 30 percent market share of the e-pharmacy market, and expects it to have a 50 percent share of the pie in the next 2 to 3 years. Despite e-pharmacies expanding at a frantic speed, it is the 850,000 brick and mortar neighborhood stores run by small entrepreneurs who dominate the Rs 1,30,506 crore Indian pharmacy landscape. The organised pharmacy chains have struggled to gain more than a 5 percent market share. It is here that e-pharmacies are trying to adopt a Omnichannel or a mixed model to penetrate deeper and faster by catering to both offline and online customers. Medlife wants use these stores as hyper-local centres for the last mile delivery of medicines. To be sure it isnt Medlife alone, even its competitor NetMeds is also looking to set up offline stores to cater to tier II and III markets, and established pharmacy retail chains such as Apollo and MedPlus have started selling online. Fund raising plans Kumar, who co-founded Medlife along with Prashant Singh in 2014, said he may look at a possible IPO So far Medlife has been self-funded, with funds liberally infused by Kumar's family. He is the son of Prabhat Narain Singh, one of the founders of Alkem Laboratories. Earlier this year, Kumar raised $17 million his family trust called Prasid Uno Family Trust. With the latest fund raise, the family had invested around $ 62 million into the company. "For the the models we are pursuing, we are sufficiently capitalized. If we need further money, we would look at an IPO or a fund raise at a later date," Kumar said. "We have a very clear path for Medlife. We understand that it takes some time. We dont want to dilute that by going for outside money," he added. Kumar said he will raise money from outside when the company turns profitable. Kumar said the company expects to turn EBITDA positive in next 6-7 months. "We have started to make money at operating level," he added. In what may bring relief to thousands of homebuyers, the Supreme Court on May 8 indicated that it may transfer 'lock, stock and barrel' real estate projects of embattled real estate company Amrapali Group to Noida and Greater Noida Authorities. The apex court is expected to hear the two authorities on May 10, the next date of hearing. Sources told Moneycontrol that the authorities may decide to utilise the services of NBCC or other entities to complete the over 40,000 units, . Out of the 15 projects, 11 housing projects comprising at least 40,000 units, of the embattled firm are located in Noida and Greater Noida. "We see that entire Amrapali Group has failed to discharge its duties towards home buyers, authorities (Noida and Greater Noida) and banks. You (Amrapali Group) have neither completed any projects nor invested any money in the projects. We think, you are the one who should be thrown out of these properties. We will vest the rights of these properties with the Noida and Greater Noida," a bench of justices Arun Mishra and UU Lalit said. We may throw you out from these properties and transfer its lock, stock and barrel to Noida and Greater Noida. The loans which have been secured by Amrapali Group by mortgaging the lands to the banks can be collected by the financial institutions from the directors of the company or the corporate guarantors. "We will ensure that banks do not enter the premises of these properties and home buyers get the first charge on the properties," the bench said. It said that Noida and Greater Noida can then engage either the NBCC or any developer to finish the stalled projects and sell the properties, legal sources said. Legal experts said if authorities are handed over the projects, they may be in a position to appropriate their dues from the land. Also, the unsold inventory ownership may be given to them which they can utilize and raise funds to complete the projects. "We have argued all along that the mess has been created by the authorities and they should be held responsible to clear it. Homebuyers welcome the move. If this happens, it will be send a clear signal to other authorities too. Under RERA authorities are the trustees of public property. Section 8 of RERA empowers RERA to hand over incomplete projects to authorities for completion. In this case, the Supreme Court's suggestion is in line with RERA but here it may be invoking its extraordinary jurisdiction under Article 142," said Kumar Mihir, advocate representing Amrapali homebuyers. The apex court also asked the counsel for Noida and Greater Noida authorities to compile all necessary data as how much money has been paid by Amrapali Group till now, the principal lease amount and interest component project wise and how much was the land given to the group. The top court said that Amrapali Group by its own admission had taken Rs 11,652 crore from home buyers and invested only Rs 10,630 crore from it for construction of the residential projects. Senior advocate Gaurav Bhatia, appearing for Amrapali, said that the group has till now paid Rs 998 crore to both the authorities. He said that Rs 11,652 crore were collected from the home buyers and Rs 10,630 crore were used for construction of various projects besides paying Rs 998 crore to the authorities as lease amount. The bench asked Bhatia to explain the income taxes paid by a Group company--Stunning Construction Pvt Ltd-- of CMD Anil Kumar Sharma and other directors saying that tax liability of directors cannot be cleared from company's fund. Bhatia claimed that Sharma has returned Rs 5.5 crore which was paid for his income tax from the accounts of Stunning Construction while the other director Shiva Priya has said that Rs 4.3 crore tax liability paid was later adjusted towards his salary dues from the Amrapali Group. On May 2, two court appointed forensic auditors - Pawan Kumar Agarwal and Ravi Bhatia - revealed that Amrapali Group gave away flats and penthouses as fees to lawyers representing it at various judicial forums. Hearing a batch of home buyers' petitions, the top court had ordered all the directors of Jotindra Steel and Tubes Ltd, a supplier to the Amrapali Group, to appear before the forensic auditor Pawan Kumar Agarwal over the next three days. Akhil Sureka, Managing Director in Jotindra Steel and Tubes Ltd, a public listed company, was found to be a director in group companies of Amrapali in the forensic audit. On May 1, the apex court had said that Amrapali Group had committed a "first degree crime" by cheating thousands of home buyers and no matter how powerful the people behind this mess they will be booked and prosecuted. "Fate is written on the wall" for the group and its directors, the top court said while declining to hear their claims of no wrong doing. The embattled real estate firm "cheated everybody including home buyers, banks and authorities and indulged in cartelization to prevent the Debt Recovery Tribunal from auctioning its unencumbered properties", it said. "The limit of your fraud touched the sky." "You have committed a first degree crime by cheating thousands of home buyers. We should have cancelled the licences of statutory auditors of Amrapali for indulging in fraudulent practice long back and sent them to jail." On February 28, the apex court had allowed the Delhi Police to arrest Amrapali group CMD Anil Sharma and two directors on a complaint that home-buyers of their various housing projects were cheated and duped of their funds. As per forensic auditors, Amrapali reportedly owes Rs 1,900 crore to Noida and Rs 3,200 crore to Greater Noida authorities. The top court, which is seized of several pleas of home buyers seeking possession of around 42,000 flats booked in projects of the Amrapali group, had earlier also ordered attachment of personal properties of the company's promoters. vandana.ramnani@nw18.com Singaporean lender DBS Bank on May 8 moved the NCLT seeking a higher payout from the Rs 4,350-crore offer by Patanjali to take over the crippled edible oil firm Ruchi Soya. An NCLT bench of judges VP Singh and Ravikumar Duraisamy asked Ruchi Soya and DBS, which holds the first charge for the plant and the machinery of the crippled company, to file their detailed submissions by May 10. Making its case for a relook at the payout for financial creditors, DBS said it enjoys the first charge for the plant and the machinery of Ruchi Soya which owes Rs 243 crore to it through an external commercial borrowing. "If the company had gone for liquidation we would have got Rs 217 crore, which is 90 percent of the dues. But the committee of creditors has taken everyone equally and because of that we will get only Rs 118 crore from the deal," DBS informed the tribunal. Meanwhile, giving a detailed plan of its resolution for the target company, Patanjali informed the tribunal that of the Rs 4,350 crore offer, it will borrow Rs 3,233 crore from banks and Rs 1,185 crore will from internal accruals and other sources. The fair value of Ruchi Soya is Rs 4,161 crore, which owes over Rs 9,345 crore to the lenders led by SBI. Patanjali also said it has no plans to take the target company private by delisting. Instead it said initially it will own 98 percent of equity and 1.7 percent will be held by the public. But to meet Sebi norm of 25 percent public holding, within 18 days it will divest a little over 23 percent to the public. As of now the public hold 66 percent in the crippled Ruchi Soya. On May 1, the NCLT had given Patanjali Ayurved time till May 7 to file a detailed resolution plan for Ruchi Soya. This happened after 96 percent of the lenders agreed to the revised offer made by Patanjali to take over Ruchi Soya by increasing its bid by Rs 190 crore to Rs 4,350 crore. Its initial offer was Rs 4,160 crore along with an Rs 1,700 crore working capital. The deal leaves the banks with a haircut of over 51 percent of the debt. Homegrown consumer goods player almost got a walkover after rival Adani Wilmar decided to pull out from the race late last year despite being the highest bidder. With the acquisition of Ruchi Soya, Patanjali will become a major player in soyabean oils and other edible oils. In December 2017, NCLT had referred Ruchi Soya for insolvency on applications moved by Standard Chartered Bank and DBS Bank and appointed Shailendra Ajmera as the RP. Patanjali, the lone player left, had last month increased its bid value by around Rs 140 crore to Rs 4,350 crore. The offer excludes capital infusion of Rs 1,700 crore. Ruchi Soya owes over Rs 9,345 crore to financial creditors led by the State Bank, which has an exposure of Rs 1,800 crore, followed by Central Bank at Rs 816 crore, Punjab National Bank at Rs 743 crore and StanChart at Rs 608 crore. Ruchi Soya has many plants and its leading brands include Nutrela, Mahakosh, Sunrich, Ruchi Star and Ruchi Gold and has one of the best functional and the largest infrastructure for soyabean," Patanjali's Tijarawala said, as the reason revising the bid upwards. Adani Wilmar, which sells edible oil under the Fortune brand, was the highest bidder last August after a long-drawn battle with Patanjali. Adani Wilmar had then said the process was getting delayed as Patanjali moved the Mumbai NCLT. The Haridwar-based Patanjali, which was clocking multi-fold growth in recent years, saw a marginal growth in FY18, hit by GST, finishing at around Rs 12,000 crore. In FY17 it had a turnover of Rs 10,561 crore, registering 111 percent growth. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More The Tata Group's airline Vistara is planning to acquire 16 of Jet Airways' grounded planes that include 10 Boeing 777 aircraft. The update comes a month after Jet shut down its operations indefinitely giving in to financial distress, Business Standard reported. Jet Airways' wings are clipped, and the Tata Group wants to take this chance to promote its aviation business further. It also plans to add to its fleet three of Jet Airways' single-aisle Boeing 737 planes, along with some Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft. The formal discussions regarding this are expected to begin soon. Moneycontrol could not independently verify the news. Vistara has had its eye on international flights to Europe and North America for a while. This boost to its fleet will give these plans a much-needed push. These long haul flights are a complete change in strategy for Vistara, which was earlier planning shorter international routes in the rage of 5-6 hours. It was going to enter mid-range and long-range flights gradually. For the same, it ordered six Boeing 787 Dreamliners to be inducted from January 2020. Sources said that the carrier was optimistic on the opportunities of direct flights between India and Europe. Jet had flights to Europe before it shut down, so does Air India. "When the first tranche wide-body order was placed, it was deliberately kept small as there was a scarcity of slots and parking bays. Things have changed dramatically with Jet's fall. With Air India's perennial financial crisis, Vistara can fill the space of long haul carrier," a source said. The person added that Vistara tried to get the 787 carriers a bit earlier, but Boeing was not able to deliver. Because of this, the airline had to look at 346-seater 777s with a three-class configuration. Jet Airways owes the US-based Export and Import Bank (EXIM) for its 10 777 jets. After Jet was unable to pay the dues to the bank, it was going to repossess the planes, but lenders to Jet Airways wished to increase their collateral. Therefore, they decided to pay the dues to EXIM Bank to own the planes. "Most of the loan has been paid by Jet Airways. Banks will repay the remaining amount of Rs 400 crore to get control of Jet Airways' aircraft. The value of the aircraft is much higher, thus increasing the collateral for the Indian lenders," a banking executive told the paper. These aircraft come with trained pilots and a readied crew, which means Vistara can put it to use immediately. The carrier is also planning to recruit some trained pilots and cabin crew, who previously were with Jet Airways, to save time. In this ambitious expansion plan of Vistara, the only possible hurdle will be the rising fuel costs. Cash will burn much faster as operations on international routes begin. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) Diversified conglomerate Ayala Corp. said it will invest 2 billion to build a hospital specializing in cancer treatment. In a statement, Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health) announced plans to put up the stand-alone Cancer Hospital within Metro Manila, the first facility which will focus on treating the disease. The hospital will have a 100-bed capacity, which will provide screening, diagnosis, and cancer treatment services to patients. Its goal is to provide comprehensive high-quality cancer care services, but at more affordable prices, the Ayala unit said. The company added that the new venture builds on the passage of Republic Act 11225 or the Cancer Control Act, which was signed into law in February. The law mandates the creation of a National Integrated Cancer Control Program which will consolidate government strategies to reduce the incidence as well as the mortality rate for the disease, which is said to be the third leading cause of death among Filipinos. The planned cancer hospital will provide state-of-the-art technology, including PET (positron emission tomography) scans for diagnosis as well as for chemotherapy, advanced radiation therapy, and operating rooms to cater to patients. Prior to this, the healthcare provider rolled out a retail clinic chain called FamilyDoc, through which they plan to deploy cancer screening services. AC Health President and chief executive officer Paolo Borromeo said they expect to serve a broader segment of Filipinos with cancer care. By Chris Vellacott LONDON (Reuters) - The plushest neighbourhoods of central London are attracting increased interest from a new wave of super-rich migrants from France, scared by a rising tide of tax threats from presidential candidates as the election campaign comes to a climax. Upmarket British property consultant Knight Frank said it has seen a 19 percent spike in online enquiries from France about homes located in London's priciest districts in the first quarter of 2012. The surge in French interest contrasts sharply with a 9 percent fall in enquiries about central London property from elsewhere in Europe. "It is early to see the impact of the proposed wealth taxes in France in terms of actual purchases ... but there is compelling evidence from our web search statistics," said Liam Bailey, Knight Frank's global head of residential research. "This evidence from web search activity backs up a noticeable spike in anecdotal comments from (our) office network, where French applicants have become much more noticeable in recent months," Bailey said. Socialist candidate Francois Hollande, favourite to win a runoff presidential election in May, has said he will target the rich with a 75 percent tax rate on annual incomes above 1 million euros. Incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy has also moved to counter a reputation for favouring the rich with promises to tax dividend income, apply a minimum 15 percent tax on major French corporations and introduce a levy on tax exiles who seek refuge abroad from high French rates. Sarkozy has already raised taxes as part of austerity measures, notably scrapping a provision that prevented anyone from paying more than 50 percent of their income in taxes which had been criticised as a "gift to the rich". Still, most of the worry about a surge in taxes has focused on Hollande, whose advisors promise a reign of tax "justice". The Knight Frank data suggests interest in relocating to London is limited to the super rich, as enquiries from France into central London homes worth less than 1 million pounds dropped sharply this year. HIGHEST PRICE But enquiries from France about homes valued between 1 million pounds and 5 million were up 11 percent, against a 15 percent fall from the rest of Europe. In the highest price bands, from 5 million pounds to 15 million and above 15 million, French interest was up by more than 30 percent. Interest in buying London property is likely to reflect plans to leave France rather than simply moving money abroad, which would not put it beyond the reach of French tax authorities who tax rich residents on worldwide wealth. The UK levies no tax on foreign residents' overseas assets if they remain "non-domiciled" for tax purposes, though recent reforms mean a levy is charged after seven years of residence. "If you've got a French domicile of origin, and you leave France and come out of the French tax system into the UK system ... you've got seven years without having to declare any French or any foreign income," said Ronnie Ludwig, Edinburgh-based partner in the private client team at accountants Saffery Champness. The "non-domiciled" status has made the UK a popular tax haven for thousands of international tycoons and oligarchs, many of whom have set up home in London. Prices for the best central London homes rose 11.3 percent in the 12 months to March this year, Knight Frank said, with demand fueled by the weakness of sterling, the UK's relative political stability and the transparency of its property market. House prices elsewhere in the UK have continued to fall or stagnate since the financial crisis. Interest has also surged from southern European countries such as Greece and Italy, whose wealthy citizens sought to shield their assets against a possible break up of the euro zone. Italians overtook Russians as the largest buyers of London homes in the first two months of this year, Knight Frank data showed. According to a survey of Citi private bank clients with at least $25 million in assets, London was rated the "most important" city in the world. It also ranked top out of global cities for quality of life, knowledge and influence and economic activity and came second to Washington in terms of perceived political power. (Additional reporting by Christian Plumb in Paris and Tom Bill in London; Editing by David Holmes) The Odisha government on May 7 sought the Centre's help in restoration power and telecom services in Puri and Khurda districts, worst hit by cyclone 'Fani', due to shortage of skilled manpower, an official said. The state has to install as many as 1.56 lakh electric poles. According to an official, the toll in the cyclone, which hit the state on May 3, rose to 37 on Tuesday with two more death reported in Cuttack district as the struggle to restore power, drinking water and telecom infrastructure continued. While 21 people had perished in Puri district, Cuttack reported five deaths followed by four cases each from Jajpur and Mayurbhanj districts. Kendrapara district reported three deaths, Special relief commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said. "We have sought the Centre's help in providing skilled manpower to assist Odisha in restoration of electricity supply in the worst cyclone-hit districts of Puri and Khurda," Chief Secretary A P Padhi told reporters after meeting with Union Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha via video conference. He said though the state government has been able to restore water supply in Puri and Bhubaneswar by using diesel generators, it has been an uphill task to provide electricity to people in view of massive destruction of power infrastructure. Padhi said Odisha has requested the Centre to send 5,000 skilled manpower from neighbouring West Bengal, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. These people will be deployed in erecting electric poles and draw wire on them which would facilitate the state to restore power supply in a time-bound manner, he said. However, the Odisha chief secretary did not give any timeline for restoration of electricity service. "I am not certain when exactly all areas will be provided electricity supply. We have already started the process of providing power to the consumers in a phased manner. In view of the massive destruction, one cannot give a timeline," Padhi said. During a review meeting, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik admitted that telecommunication network has completely collapsed in Puri and said the state has urged the Centre to make Mobile Tower on Wheels available in the district to facilitate relief and restoration works. He said lack of telecommunication has adversely affected relief and restoration works. Relief distribution work was launched in Bhubaneswar Tuesday and the same will start in parts of Khurda district from Wednesday, Patnaik said. In absence of drinking water and electricity during the mid-May summer, life in the coastal districts remained derailed even four days after the calamity. The miseries of the people were compounded with high levels of humidity which soared above 90 per cent in coastal districts. "Everything is dependent on power supply. If there is no electricity, the filling stations cannot operate even though they have enough stock of petrol and diesel," Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said. With acute shortage of drinking water, lack of power supply and ATMs becoming defunct, many people, mostly students and elderly persons, have started leaving the state capital for their native places. "There is rush at the bus stand as people move to their villages," Odisha Private Bus Owners Association secretary Tusharkant Acharya said. He said though 400 buses are now plying in the state, more are required to meet the passenger demands after the cyclone. Bus service has started in 80 per cent of routes as the national highways and state highways have been cleared of blockades. Though train service from Bhubaneswar resumed on Sunday, East Coast Railways Tuesday announced cancellation of seven trains including Haridwar-Puri Kalinga Express, Chennai-Santragachi Suvidha Express, Neelachal Express, Puri-Shalimar Express. Meanwhile, the Centre Tuesday extended the last date of registration for students of Odisha to enroll in the JEE (advanced) exam. The eligible students were to resister their names online between May 3 and 9. "I am happy to announce that students from Odisha appearing JEE (Advance) 2019 will get an extension of 5 days till May 14 for their registration. A decision to this effect was taken following the request of Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik," Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar tweeted. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu extended a helping hand to cyclone-ravaged Odisha and tweeted, "A team of 2055 workers, shift operators and staff from energy department will be deputed for rectification work so that service can be restored at a faster pace." He also announced an assistance of Rs 15 crore for the cyclone victims of Odisha. Former prime minister HD Devegowda and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy spoke to Patnaik on Tuesday and expressed their solidarity with the people of Odisha. Financial assistance poured in from many quarters with industrialist Gautam Adani contributing Rs 25 crore and ICICI Bank Rs 10 crore to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys (IMFA) also contributed Rs 75 lakh for the cyclone victims. BJP president Amit Shah May 8 claimed that this Lok Sabha election is a fight between '3 Gs' of the Congress represented by the Gandhi family and those of the saffron party exemplified by gaon, goumata and the Ganga. Claiming that there is a wave in favour of the prime minister across the country, Shah also sought to compare between a 'workaholic' Narendra Modi and a 'vacation loving' Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. He also alleged that the opposition parties are not interested in the security of the country for the sake of votebank politics. Both the Congress and the BJP have three Gs, he said. "For the Congress, 3G stands for Sonia (Gandhi), Rahul (Gandhi) and Priyanka (Gandhi). The BJP's 3G are gaon (villages), goumata (cow) and the Ganga," Shah said and asked the people to choose the correct 3G. He said he has visited for poll campaigns almost all the states where people have different tastes and culture, but "what is common everywhere is the chant in favour of Modi". "On the one hand, you have Modi who did not take a single leave in 20 years. On the other, you have Rahul Gandhi who goes on long vacations to places, leaving his mother worried about his whereabouts," he said in rallies in Dhanbad and Jamshedpur. Shah claimed that Gandhi goes on vacations as soon as the temperature starts soaring during summer. "This (opposition) alliance had kept the country's security at stake for their vote bank. For us vote bank is not important. Elections will come and go, but security of the country is the top most priority for us," he said. Bullets of terrorists will be responded with bombs, Shah saidBJP. "What the Modi-led government did for the welfare of the poor in five years, the Congress could not achieve it in 55 years," he claimed. Describinbg infiltrators as termites, the BJP leader said while the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) will drive out intruders, the Congress seeks to raise the issue of human rights. The BJP president said, "I would like to ask them when innocent jawans were killed and their families suffered, where was their concern?" "From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Kolkata to Kuch, we will identify infiltrators and throw them out of country, the BJP president leader said. At the time of terror strikes and beheading of Indian soldiers during the 10-year rule of the Congress-led UPA, the then prime minister Manmohan Singh did not say anything, he alleged. "But after the massacre of 40 of our jawans at Pulwama by Pakistani terrorists, our Air Force struck terror camps in Balakot at a time when Pakistan amassed soldiers and tanks on the border," he said. Criticizing Gandhi and JMM working president Hemant Soren for their support to Omar Abdullah, Shah said the National Conference leader had spoken about a separate prime minister for Kashmir. "Should there be two prime ministers in one country?" Shah asked and the crowd roared back: "No". "Article 370 will be scrapped. Modi will definitely come to power again. but in case the BJP is not in power, every BJP worker will see to it that Kashmir remains an integral part of the country," Shah said. The Congress promised abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution in its poll manifesto. The Article grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state. Talking about the NDA dispensation's development initiatives in Jharkhand, the BJP boss said it opened medical colleges in Hazaribag and Dumka, set up a cancer hospital in Ranchi and launched a 4000MW power plant at Patratu. "In the 13th Finance Commission, the UPA government had allotted Rs 55,253 crore for Jharkhand. The Modi government has given over 3 lakh crore to the state in five years," he added. Shah said that Modi opened Sindri Fertilizer Factory in Sindri, converted India School of Mines to an IIT and gave Binod Bihari Mahto Koyalanchal University in Dhanbad. File image Ali Ahmed National security was catapulted into being the primary issue for this general election for the first time with the car bombing in Pulwama in mid-February and its aftermath in an aerial confrontation between India and Pakistan in the Balakot-Naushera episode. The strong-on-defence plank of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has at its core the demonstrated decision-making credentials of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which the surgical strikes of September 2016, the Balakot aerial strike and the anti-satellite test serve to buttress. However, such self-projection by the ruling party serves to obscure the deterioration of the situation in Kashmir over its tenure, best illustrated by the polling percentages across the Valley. In the first phase of polling in Kashmir, people stayed away from 172 polling stations in the Srinagar constituency that witnessed 15 per cent voting, a fall by half from the figure of about 25 per cent in 2014. In the Srinagar by-poll earlier in 2017, triggered by the defection of the sitting parliamentarian, the figure was a mere 7 per cent, accompanied by some eight civilians killed. The by-poll showing had prompted the postponing of a similar by-poll in the Anantnag constituency, the vacated seat of Mehbooba Mufti who moved as chief minister in 2016. This time round, the polls in the Anantnag constituency, the epicentre of Kashmiri disaffection in south Kashmir, witnessed about 9 per cent turnout. Despite an unprecedented three-phased poll in the constituency, the last day was hallmarked by two grenade attacks. Although voting percentages were higher in north Kashmir the figure for Kupwara district being 51 per cent this owed to the turnout of largely Pahadi people inhabiting the areas along the Line of Control. Baramula district though declared by the police as terrorist-free early this year had 25 per cent polling. The meagre figures cast a cloud over the tacitly-held Indian position that the plebiscite promised to Kashmiris at accession time has been provisioned by the extension of Indian democracy to the state. Evidently, Kashmiris are unimpressed. The panchayat polls in December 2018 had seen the two major regional parties the National Conference and the Peoples Democratic Party staying away, resulting in 41 per cent participation, albeit a marked improvement over the municipal polls in October that featured a 4 per cent turnout. The low percentages did not quite need the election boycott call by separatists and militants. In the run up to the polls, the government appeared to be leaving no stone unturned for off-putting Kashmiris. It banned the Jamaat-i-Islami that has a strong-hold in south Kashmir, and the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF). It lifted the security cover of some 900 people, as it turned out temporarily for some 400 of them. In the event, one BJP politician was shot in south Kashmir. Using election security preparedness as an excuse, its ban till the end of May on the use of the national highway on two days was upheld when challenged by the Supreme Court. It suspended the decade-old confidence building measure of trading at the two points with Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). Full-throated military operations continued, even as it did not let down its guard on the Pakistan front. Midway between the polls, the figure for terrorists killed upped to 69, their number crossing the Pulwama martyrs figure with that of Jaish terrorists killed an outfit to which the Pulwama car bomber belonged pegged at 25. Amplified by a media favouring the BJPs nationalism plank, these hardline actions appeared to be designed to fetch votes nationally. In the Jammu belt, resulting regional polarisation, most recently deepened by the riot-like targeting of Kashmiris post-Pulwama, has long been an asset for the BJP. Importantly, for the future that is to see the state go to polls in autumn is BJP President Amit Shah showing of the red-rag, included in the BJPs manifesto, on ridding the Constitution of Articles 35A and 370. The BJPs Kashmir pointsman, Ram Madhav, watered this down while on poll visit to Anantnag, arguing for a developmental agenda instead. The threat can be taken as election-time posturing by the BJP, since a return to power will only be being sans its hitherto majority thus the threat is unlikely materialise. The good part is that the political consensus on the inviolability of the two Articles between the mainstream regional parties will prompt wider participation in the forthcoming assembly elections to ensure a viable front against any tampering. An indicator of their sense of purpose is in their coming together briefly in November 2018 to bid for governing, that in turn had prompted the governor to dissolve the assembly that had been in suspended animation since June. In short, the message from the parliamentary elections is of Kashmiri alienation, even if the bright side is that with the message having been conveyed, a wider participation can be expected in the assembly elections. The caveat is whether the next central government carries forward the legacy of the last five years or overturns it. Ali Ahmed is visiting professor, Nelson Mandela Center for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. He tweets at @aliahd66. Views are personal. For more Opinion pieces, click here G Babu Jayakumar Aside of the election juggernaut rolling over the national highways raising heat and dust, on a side track Tamil Nadu politics is on a rollercoaster ride. Though there is a by-election to four assembly seats on May 19, national media attention is largely on the Hindi heartland where the remaining two phases are concentrated. The political developments in the southern state has pushed the people to the edge of their seats as the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK)-led state government, uncertain about its future, has been pulling one rabbit after another from its hat in a desperate attempt to stay in power. On May 23, along with the results to the 39 parliamentary seats from the state, the fate of 22 assembly seats will also be decided. Of these 22 seats, 18 went to the polls on April 18. If the AIADMK does not manage to win requisite number of seats, the curtains would fall on Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswamis government. Given this, the CM and his deputy, O Panneerselvam, would be anxiously working towards reaching the minimum required number in the Assembly. To put it in perspective, the Tamil Nadu assembly has 234 elected members. The ruling party/coalition would require a minimum of 117 members in the Housethe AIADMK has 114, including Speaker P Dhanpal, whose latest caper to purge three of his own party MLAs came a cropper on May 6 with the Supreme Court granting an interim stay on his disqualification notice. If the AIADMK wins at least four of the 22 seats in the bypolls, the government may sail through the non-confidence motion that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is itching to move against it. Since the AIADMK was neither so sure about a favourable result nor about the loyalty of all its members, the party is planning of bringing down the total number of MLAs in the Assembly and Dhanpals disqualification move must been seen in that light. The allegation against the three AIADMK MLAs Vridhachalam MLA VT Kalaiselvan, Aranthangi MLA E Rathinasabhapathy and Kallakurichi MLA A Prabhu was that during the campaign for the Lok Sabha elections, the trio worked for Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK), the rival faction of the party led by TTV Dhinakaran. The AIADMKs calculations would have been that by disqualifying three MLAs, the total strength of the House would further be reduced and even if the party won just 2-3 seats in the bypolls, it could survive a floor test. Now that hope is lost. So what could be the next? Speculation is ripe that the AIADMK might make scapegoats of the 11 MLAs who had voted against the government when it faced a no-confidence motion in February 2017 after Palaniswami took over the reins as chief minister. In 2016, when the AIADMK under J Jayalalithaa fought anti-incumbency and came back to power, the party strength in the House of 232 (election in Aravakurichi and Thanjavur constituencies were cancelled by the Election Commission of India) was 134. Following her death in December 2016, the contours of the partys composition in the Assembly changed drastically and it has barely managed to stay in power till now. In February 2017, when the Palaniswami government was called to prove its majority, 11 AIADMK MLAs, owing allegiance to Panneerselvam who was then resenting his ouster from the top job that was entrusted with him when Jayalalithaa was in hospital, went against the government. Yet Palaniswami survived, winning by 122 voice votes. Subsequently, when 18 MLAs, owning allegiance to Dhinakaran, gave a letter to the governor, expressing their lack of confidence in the chief minister (not the party), the AIADMK pounced on the opportunity to throw the 18 MLAs out. In between, since the Panneerselvam faction had patched up with the Palaniswami group and the 11 MLAs who voted against the government were spared. It was the DMK that went to the court seeking their disqualification under the defection law. The Dhinakaran faction MLAs too went to court but lost the case. They then refrained from going on an appeal with a view to facilitating re-election in the constituencies, along with the general elections. Besides those seats that fell vacant, some deaths, one of them being DMK President M Karunandihi, also caused the total 22 vacancies. Reports indicate that there is nothing for the AIADMK to feel honky dory as far as the by-elections are concerned. The same is the case with the Lok Sabha polls. The ruling party is unlikely to win a respectable number of seats in the bypolls. This is also a reason why campaigning by all parties for the remaining four seats is in full swing. If the ruling AIADMK wins just two of the 22 seats and this could happen because the AMMK might take away the traditional AIADMK votes and candidates who had earlier won from these seats are now working against the party its strength in the House would fall below the halfway mark. If this is the case, to remain in power the AIADMK will most likely disqualify the 11 MLAs who stood by Panneerselvam in 2017. If this government falls, expect the DMK, under the leadership of MK Stalin, and with support from its allies and even the AMMK, to form the next Tamil Nadu government. G Babu Jayakumar is a senior Chennai-based journalist. Views are personal. For more Opinion pieces, click here File image: Nitin Gadkari Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on May 8 warned Pakistan that India will not hesitate to stop water of rivers flowing to that country if Islamabad does not end its support to terrorism. "The Union government is already making a road map to stop water of rivers flowing from India into Pakistan," he said Gadkari was speaking while campaigning for Amritsar BJP candidate Hardeep Puri. The minister said that the government is planning to build six water dams in Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan and this step would solve the water problem enormously. There was water treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 and its basis was peaceful relations, but if the present face of terrorism is not changed, in such circumstances, India wouldn't take much time to take the harsh decision of stopping river water to Pakistan, the BJP leader said. He said that the excess water will be given to Punjab and Haryana to address shortage in agriculture. On river water distribution between Punjab and neighbouring Haryana, he said that the issue has to be sorted out without disturbing the water available to Punjab. Elaborating on the development work undertaken during the BJP-led NDA rule, he said that the Modi Government did what was not done in the last five decades. He said that the government was planning to begin double decker air bus service in six cities, including Amritsar. In order to promote industry and business Union, the government was planning to build Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway which would reduce the journey time by four hours between Amritsar and Delhi. The US has indicated that it may take final decision on withdrawal of incentives to Indian exporters under its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme only after formation of the new government here, sources said. In March, the US Trade Representative's Office has said that removing India from the GSP programme would not take effect for at least 60 days after notifications to Congress and the Indian government, and it will be enacted by a presidential proclamation. The sources said in a meeting, the US has signalled that they would like to wait on the GSP issue till the new government assumes office in India. Although India has stated that withdrawal of these duty benefits under GSP will not impact its exports to the US, small exporters have asked for continuation of the programme. A group of 25 influential American lawmakers has urged the US Trade Representative not to terminate the GSP programme with India after the expiry of the 60-day notice, saying the country's companies seeking to expand their exports to India could be affected. The seven-phase general elections in India will complete on May 19 and the counting of votes will take place on May 23. India has said that the GSP benefits were only about $190 million annually. The country exported goods worth $5.6 billion under GSP last year. The GSP benefits are envisaged as non-reciprocal and non-discriminatory to be extended by developed countries to developing economies. US President Donald Trump has said he intends to end the preferential trade status granted to India and Turkey, asserting that New Delhi has failed to assure America of "equitable and reasonable" access to its markets, an announcement that could be seen as a major setback to bilateral trade ties. In April 2018, the US initiated a review of the GSP benefits on account of representations by dairy and medical industries. As many as 3,700 products get GSP benefits but India exports only 1,900 items such as chemicals and engineering under that concession, which was introduced in 1976 by the US. During a meeting between visiting US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu Monday, both the countries discussed various issues, including India's draft e-commerce policy, data localisation, tight visa regime in the US, high import duties imposed by America on steel and aluminium. The other matters which were discussed between the leaders include US concerns on medical devices, personal data protection bill of India, RBI's public credit registry, data localisation for payment companies, visa issue, airport ground handling operations by US Airlines, IPR and airline passenger safety system/data. In this meeting, Indian side has agreed to look into the issues of medical devices sector. Further, the US companies have raised concerns over India's draft e-commerce policy and issues related with mandatory data localisation requirements. Bilateral trade in goods and services has registered a 12.6 percent rise to $142 billion in 2018, compared to $126 billion in 2017. Representative image Army has no data to suggest that surgical strikes were conducted by its troops across the Line of Control (LoC) before September 29, 2016, the day when such strikes were carried out in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). This was stated by the Directorate General of Military Operations (DGMOs) in a RTI reply, putting to rest the claim of UPA and Congress that six surgical strikes were conducted during the period of Manmohan Singh government. "This section does not hold any data pertaining to surgical strikes if carried out before September 29, 2016," said Lt Col A D S Jasrotia at the Integrated Headquarters of MoD (Army). The reply came in response to an RTI filed by Jammu-based activist Rohit Choudhary about the number of surgical strikes on Pakistan between 2004 and 2014, and after September 2014. He had also sought to know how many of those were successful. "Indian army conducted surgical strikes along the LOC on 29 September 2016. No Indian soldier lost his life during surgical strikes", the officer of IHQ of Army's Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) said in the RTI reply. Some Congress leaders including former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh claimed that several surgical strikes were conducted by army during the previous UPA rule. "Multiple surgical strikes took place during our tenure, too. For us, military operations were meant for strategic deterrence and giving a befitting reply to anti-India forces than to be used for vote garnering exercises, Singh had said in an interview to a newspaper. Congress leader Rajiv Shukla had told reporters at an AICC briefing last week that six surgical strikes were conducted during the period of Manmohan Singh government. The BJP had questioned the claims and said the Congress had a habit of lying. Congress has a habit of lying. Will you please let me know which So called Surgical Strike are you attributing to my tenure as COAS. Am sure you must have hired some Coupta to invent another story . Chowkidar Vijay Kumar Singh (@Gen_VKSingh) May 4, 2019 Union Minister V K Singh, a former army chief, on Saturday denied knowledge of a surgical strike during his tenure and accused the Congress of lying about it. The ED has seized a flat in posh Vasant Kunj area of Delhi and a land in Haryana worth Rs 1.48 crore in connection with a FEMA and hawala case against Harish Gahlot, brother of Delhi minister Kailash Gahlot. The agency said it issued a seizure order under section 37A of FEMA freezing the flat and a land in Chauba village in Haryana in lieu of alleged illegal assets held abroad. "Investigation was initiated under FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) based on the information received from the Income Tax Department informing about transfer of money to the tune of Rs. 1 crore from India to Dubai through hawala channel by Harish Gahlot through a Delhi-based hawala dealer for making advance payments toward purchase of two flats in Dubai in September, 2018," the ED alleged in a statement. Premises linked to the family and associates of Kailash Gahlot, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA and Delhi Transport minister, were raided by the I-T Department in October last year. The properties of his brother Harish Gahlot were also searched during this action. The tax department searches were conducted as part of a tax evasion probe against two firms -- Brisk Infrastructure and Developers Pvt Ltd and Corporate International Financial Services Limited -- that are reportedly operated and owned by the family members of Kailash Gahlot. Kailash Gahlot had denied any wrongdoing and the AAP had called the action "political vendetta." The Enforcement Directorate (ED) said its probe revealed that in September, 2018 Harish Gahlot had given Rs 1 crore cash to his younger son Nitesh Gahlot, who is an NRI and studying in Dubai, for sending this money to Dubai allegedly through unauthorised hawala channel, that denotes skirting legal banking route to transfer money. "Nitesh Gahlot, through his contact, approached Inderpal Wadhawan, a Delhi-based hawala dealer for transferring the amount. Wadhawan kept Rs 4 lakh with him as commission and illegally delivered Dirhams equivalent to Rs 96 lakh in Dubai which was collected by the friend of Nitesh Gahlot and deposited the said amount in the Dubai bank account of Nitesh Gahlot," the agency charged. Out of these funds, the ED said, Nitesh Gahlot made payment to Dubai-based developers for booking of two flats in the name of himself, his father Harish Gahlot, his mother and his elder brother. "Investigation also revealed that on September 26, 2018 Harish Gahlot had sent Rs 50 lakh from his bank in India to the bank account of his son Nitesh Gahlot maintained in Dubai under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) for the purpose code S0305 Travel for Education Including Fees Hostel Expenses etc, the ED said. However, the agency said, the said amount was "not used for intended purpose but actually used for booking of said two flats in Dubai." West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on May 8 accused Prime Minster Narendra Modi of running a fascist government in the country, and drew a parallel between her campaign against the BJP and the Quit India Movement of 1942. Addressing a rally here, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said the prime minister and his party will be shown the door after the Lok Sabha elections. "Someone has to bell the cat. In 1942, Quit India movement was launched against the British, now we are fighting to oust a fascist Modi from power," she said. Banerjee claimed that Modi, if he retains power, will destroy the "constitutional fabric" and no elections will be held in future. "There will be no freedom or democracy in the country if Modi is voted to power again. It is time we show the door to Modi and the BJP. It's time this government is buried during this democratic exercise (elections)," she said. The chief minister claimed that people are scared to express their opinion in public. "There is an emergency-like situation in the country. Nobody can speak out in public as they are scared of him... Stop this fascism and terror," she said. The TMC boss also insisted that Modi never visited Bengal during crises. "You will get a big rosogolla (zero seats) in Bengal," she said. The chief minister alleged that Modi had lied when he said he was once a 'chaiwala' (tea seller). "From chaiwala, he has become a chowkidar (watchman). We do not want a chowkidar who tells lies. "Modi had promised achhe din (good times) after coming to power. What happened in reality is that the prices of petrol and diesel have gone up and minorities and adivasis no longer feel safe in the face of incessant attacks," the TMC leader said. India is in danger under the Modi-led government, Banerjee alleged. "We want leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhas Bose, Ambedkar, Rajendra Prasad and Swami Vivekananda. They (the BJP), however, talk about Nathruam Godse and not of Gandhiji," she added. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) The Integrated Bar of the Philippines on Wednesday declined the request of Peter Joemel Advincula, also known as Bikoy, for free legal assistance. Bikoy surfaced at the IBP headquarters on Monday after allegedly receiving death threats following the posting of his video series "Ang Totoong Narco List" implicating President Rodrigo Duterte and his close allies in the illegal drug trade. IBP said its National Center for Free Legal Aid decided against helping Advincula after reaching a "thorough evaluation of his application." "The NCLA has determined that Mr. Advincula may not be provided free legal assistance based on the standards provided for in the NCLA Manual of Operations in approving such requests," IBP President Abdiel Fajardo said in a statement. It added that the nongovernmental organization cannot be seen to be siding with or going against any candidate or political party. Advincula earlier sought IBP's help to sue alleged members of the syndicate, including the Presidents son, former Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, senatorial candidate and former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Bong Go, Davao City Mayor Sara Dutertes husband Manases Carpio, and the Bicol-based drug syndicate Quadrangle Group. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on May 8 met Congress President Rahul Gandhi and discussed plans to hold a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21, two days ahead of Lok Sabha results to chalk out a post-poll alliance. Naidu met Gandhi before heading out to West Bengal to attend public rallies in support of the ruling Trinamool Congress in the state, sources said. In a brief meeting, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief is believed to have discussed the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) issue, voting percentage in the recently held five phase polling besides the Andhra Assembly election developments, the sources said. The sources said Naidu and Gandhi also discussed the post-poll scenario and more or less agreed to call a meeting of Opposition parties on May 21. The Lok Sabha elections are being held in seven phases. So far, polling in five phases are over and the counting of votes will be on May 23. Naidu will be meeting West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee apart from attending her rallies on Wednesday and Thursday. The Andhra Pradesh CM was in Delhi to attend the Supreme Court hearing on a petition filed by the Opposition parties to review its judgment rejecting 50 percent random physical verification of EVMs using VVPATs. The apex court dismissed the petition following which the parties again met the Election Commission to press their demand. Fearing use of gold and cash in Lok Sabha elections in Delhi, the Customs department here has increased vigil and started sharing details of seizures with Income Tax and poll authorities, officials said Wednesday. The move comes following a directive in this regard from the Delhi chief electoral officer (CEO) to the Customs department, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Income Tax department and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), among others. The Customs department is keeping a hawkeye especially on passengers coming from the Gulf sector -- infamous for gold smuggling cases-- to check for any suspicious gold and cash movement, the officials said. "The cases of smuggling of foreign currencies are also under the scanner of the Customs," an official said. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport witnesses a large number of gold smuggling cases. Gold worth over Rs 110 crore was seized from smugglers by Customs officials at the IGI airport during 2018, according to official data. Polls in seven Lok Sabha constituencies of Delhi are scheduled to be held on May 12. Besides, elections in all ten Lok Sabha seats in Haryana, including neighbouring Gurgaon, will also be held on the same day. "There may be an attempt to smuggle in gold and cash for its probable use in the funding of the polls. Customs officials are maintaining a strict vigil at the airport to check such movement," the official said. The Customs department is also sharing data on seizure of gold weighing 1 kg or more with the Income Tax department and poll authorities, he said. The CISF and the Customs have been asked to share the daily report of cases of detection of cash or cash equivalent exceeding Rs 10 lakh and bullion weighing 1kg or more with the Income Tax department, according to the CEO's directive. The Customs department has been also asked to "provide information to CEO, Delhi, as well as District Magistrate/Returning Officer (South) on the cases of detection of cash, bullion, valuable items related to election activities/purposes even if coming from abroad". Not only the passenger terminal, activities at the Delhi airport's cargo terminal are also being monitored closely to check such suspicious movement. The BCAS, on detection of suspicious cash, cash equivalent, bullion, any valuable items, unauthorised items, contraband goods as well as election material in domestic cargo during the entire election process in Delhi, shall immediately report to authorities concerned that is the Income Tax department or the CISF or Delhi Police, the directive said. It shall also submit a report of such cases to Delhi poll authorities, it said. A total of 340 cases of gold smuggling, an increase of 58 per cent as compared to the cases filed in 2017, were registered by the Customs department at the Delhi airport in 2018. In these, 402.48 kg of gold, valued at Rs 113.83 crore, were seized and 262 persons were arrested. There were 57 cases of smuggling of foreign currencies during the year, in which foreign currencies worth Rs 22.27 crore were seized. A total of 38 persons were arrested in these cases. In a recent case, an employee of the Delhi Duty Free shop was among six people arrested by the Customs for allegedly smuggling gold worth about Rs 60 lakh at the airport. Five passengers, including four Turkmenistani, were arrested last wee by the Customs officials for smuggling gold worth Rs 2 crore at Delhi airport. Anupam Kher (Image: Twitter/Anupam Kher) Actor Anupam Kher was left red-faced on Wednesday while assisting his wife and BJP candidate Kirron Kher in a door-to-door campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha election. He was out with his cavalcade of followers in Chandigarh, when a shopkeeper put him in a corner with a humble question on the Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) poll promises. When the veteran actor approached the shopkeeper in question, seeking his support for his wife, the man produced the saffron partys 2014 manifesto and asked him how many of the promises had been fulfilled in the last five years. In the video clip of the incident, which has gone viral since, he can be heard asking Kher: Sir, ek chhoti si cheez poochna chahunga. Aap logon ne humse kuch waade kare thhe. Is mein se kya diya hai aap logon ne? (Sir, I have a question. You made us some promises. Which of these have you delivered?) The actor can then be seen turning around and leaving the premises without replying to him. And this is not even the first time that he has dodged questions raised by the public. Last month, while campaigning in Chandigarh, when he was asked if Kirron Kher is more active as an actor than a politician, he just said Bharat Mata ki Jai and left. Insulting Anupam Kher seems to have become the latest pastime in Chandigarh. https://t.co/OgKVL30TnJ Aditya Menon (@AdityaMenon22) May 8, 2019 You mean to say this time href="https://twitter.com/AnupamPKher?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnupamPKher didn't even say Bharat Mata Ki Jai? ON A SERIOUS NOTE - start sticking manifestos onto the faces of netas who come to ask for votes. Don't let it become toilet paper that netas use to wipe their incompetence. https://t.co/OcGdIJSVK7 The DeshBhakt (@akashbanerjee) May 8, 2019 The actors action irked many electorates who began sharing the video across multiple social media platforms.Anupam Kher later took to Twitter to back his actions. In the tweet, he alleged that the shopkeeper in the video was in fact planted by the Opposition, which he realised when he saw another person standing behind him start making a video. Figuring out what was going on, he said he decided to just walk away. A powerful bomb exploded near security forces guarding a famous Sufi shrine in Lahore, Pakistan on May 8, killing at least four people and wounding several others, police said. Lahore police chief Ghazanfar Ali said that police officers were the apparent target of the bombing outside the shrine which is known as Data Darbar. He said hundreds of pilgrims were inside and outside the shrine when the blast took place. Television footage showed a badly damaged police vehicle that authorities said was the target. (Developing story. To be updated)(With inputs from agencies) Britain's Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle on May 8 presented the first glimpse of their baby boy, the seventh in line to the British throne born on May 6. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex described their new-born, who is referred to as Baby Sussex until his name is announced, as a dream and parenthood as magic as they attended a photocall at St George's Hall in Windsor Castle. A visibly beaming Harry, 34, carried the infant out for the cameras before a brief interaction. He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm. He's been the dream, said 37-year-old Meghan. Describing her first days as a mother, she added: It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy. Harry said: "It's great. Parenting is amazing. "It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy." The royal joked that his son has "already got a little bit of facial hair" as he spoke of his excitement at becoming a dad. Baby Sussex, the eighth great grandchild to Queen Elizabeth II, is believed to be the first mixed-race child born to a senior member of the British Royal Family in centuries. Coming in ahead of him in the line of succession as it stands are his grandfather the Prince of Wales, his uncle the Duke of Cambridge, Prince William, his three young cousins Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and his father Harry. The infant, however, will not be made a prince unless his great-grandmother steps in, who is set to meet the new baby later on Wednesday. Asked which parent the baby resembled more, Harry said: "Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks. We're basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really. But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows." William had earlier welcomed his brother to "the sleep deprivation society that is parenting". The father-of-three said he looked forward to seeing the new parents "when things have quietened down". Prince Charles also expressed his joy at the birth. During an official visit to Germany with the Duchess of Cornwall Camilla, he said: "We couldn't be more delighted at the news and we're looking forward to meeting the baby when we return." A statement added that Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, was "overjoyed at the arrival of her first grandchild" and was with her daughter at Frogmore Cottage - the new parents' home on the Windsor Estate. The birth is understood to have taken place in hospital as opposed to at home as Meghan had intended. The British government acknowledged for the first time on May 7 that the country will definitely take part in the European Parliament elections this month because there's no chance that a Brexit deal can be approved in time to avoid them. Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative government had been desperate to avoid UK participation in polls for UK seats in the 751-seat European Union legislature. The vote in Britain on May 23 is being held almost three years after UK voters chose to leave the EU. But lawmakers have repeatedly rejected May's divorce deal with the bloc, and Britain's departure date has been postponed from March 29 until October 31 while politicians scramble for a solution. Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington, the No 2 in May's government, said "regrettably" it was no longer possible to get Brexit finished before the elections, which are being held across the EU from May 23-26. "We very much hoped that we would be able to get our exit sorted and have the treaty concluded so that those elections did not have to take place," he said. "But legally they do have to take place unless our withdrawal has been given legal effect, so those will now go ahead," Lidington said the government still hoped Britain would leave the bloc before the new European Parliament takes up its seats in early July. The Conservative Party fears it will be trounced in the European election as pro-Brexit and pro-EU voters both express anger at the country's political impasse. Two new parties the anti-EU Brexit Party led by Nigel Farage and the pro-European Change UK party are campaigning hard, hoping to make gains among disgruntled Britons. May has pinned hopes of securing Parliament's support for a Brexit deal on reaching a compromise with the opposition Labour Party. After several weeks of fruitless negotiations, senior Conservative and Labour lawmakers resumed Brexit discussions Tuesday in what appeared to be a final push to reach an agreement. The talks were given new urgency by last week's local elections in Britain, which saw the Conservatives hammered and Labour also lose ground as voters expressed anger at the Brexit mess. But the left-of-center Labour Party insists it will only agree to a Brexit deal that includes a permanent customs union with the EU to avoid barriers to the trade of goods. The government wants a looser relationship with the bloc that would let Britain strike new trade deals around the world. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said "compromises on all sides" were needed "because the message of last week was that voters for both main parties are very, very angry about the fact that Brexit hasn't been delivered." But suggestions that May's government might soften the terms of Britain's departure from the EU has infuriated pro-Brexit Conservatives, who are demanding May's resignation. "The time has come for her to resign," said lawmaker Bill Cash. "She needs to be given a date. The sooner the better. But it needs to be done in an orderly manner." May has said she will step down once a Brexit deal has been ratified, but it's unclear when or even if that will happen. The chairman of a powerful Conservative committee that oversees party leadership contests was due to meet May later Tuesday to deliver a demand for "clarity" about her departure date. Leaders of local Conservative organisations are holding a non-binding no-confidence vote in May's leadership on June 15. "Akshya Tritiya", considered an auspicious day for buying gold in India, saw healthy buying of the yellow metal this year as lower prices increased footfalls in traditional markets like Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Delhi. Irrespective of market conditions, gold prices normally increases during the auspicious buying period of Akshya Tritiya. However, global developments this year have pushed down the prices, with the precious metal being almost 10 per cent cheaper this year as compared to the same period last year. "On this day of Akshaya Tritiya, we are seeing healthy double-digit growth as compared to last year. We are looking at healthy gold and diamond jewellery sales in the next few hours till the end of the day's closing," said Sandeep Kulhalli, Sr. Vice President-Retail and Marketing, Tanishq. Buyers were seen interested in light, fashionable and trendy items, said a jeweller in Ahmedabad. Gold with 24 carrot purity was priced at Rs 31,700 per 10 gram plus GST in Ahmedabad during the afternoon session. Gold with 22 carrot purity traded at Rs 31,100 per 10 gram plus GST. "The festive sentiment amongst both trade and consumers appears to be stronger this year. A favourable price offers a good seasonal opportunity for wedding purchases, which underpin Indian jewellery demand. Various trade offers and promotions point towards an increase in demand for both jewellery as well as investment products like coins and bars," said Somasundaram P.R., Managing Director, India, World Gold Council. "Although a nascent trend, digital gold buying platforms are quite upbeat at this time as they continue to grow at a fast rate, offering consumers the option of purchasing pure gold for as little as one rupee on their smartphone and at their convenience. In spite of the elections, all the indicators point towards a good buying season this Akshaya Tritiya in comparison to the previous year." By late afternoon, at Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold contract expiring in June was at Rs 31,562 per 10 gram, one rupee down from the last closing. In the international market, June expiring contract of gold on the comex was at $1,281.15 per ounce, $2.65 dollar per ounce down from the last session. According to analysts, prices of the yellow metal are poised to rally amid rising uncertainties as the US President Donald Trump, despite repeated claims by the White House that trade talks with Beijing were progressing, said on Twitter last Sunday that he would increase tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods from 10 per cent to 25 per cent. Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article. Just last month, the Supreme Court gave a stern warning and final opportunity to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on the central banks position on the disclosure of annual inspection reports of banks, list of wilful defaulters and other details sought by activists under the Right to Information (RTI) Act. However, instead of following the apex court directive, the RBI, on 30 April 2019, just uploaded its revised disclosure policy under the RTI Act on its website. The RBI has not yet placed in the public domain the annual inspection reports of banks as per the directives from the Supreme Court. Girish Mittal, one of the petitioners in the Supreme Court, says, In spite of the clear and specific order from the Supreme Court for providing the information on bank inspection reports, the RBI has amended its disclosure policy and continues to say that inspection reports are exempt under section 8(1). This, in other words, means that the RBI is in no mood to follow orders from the Supreme Court. The new disclosure policy of RBI restrains citizens from inspecting, supervising and scrutinising reports of banks and other financial institutions under the RTI Act. The disclosure policy also debars citizens from taking any information derived from these reports or contained in such reports, and supervisory action taken thereon using sections 8 (1) (h) and 8(1)(j) of the Act. Last month, in an order, the bench of Justice L Nageswara Rao and Justice MR Shah had said, "Though we could have taken a serious view of RBI continuing to violate the directions issued by this Court, we give them a last opportunity to withdraw the disclosure policy insofar as it contains exemptions, which are contrary to the directions issued by this Court. The RBI are duty bound to furnish all information relating to inspection reports and other material apart from the material that was exempted in para 77 of the judgment. Any further violation shall be viewed seriously by this Court. The apex court also directed the central bank to withdraw its non-disclosure policy, which the Court concluded is in violation of the Supreme Court's judgement in 2015. The RBI, as per 2015 judgement, was directed to disclose the annual audit reports of the banks, status of NPAs (non-performing assets) and action taken thereon. However, instead of withdrawing its disclosure policy, the RBI has revised the policy. The list of exemptions, which the central bank claims is only indicative and not exhaustive, and has exemptions such as Section 45NB of the RBI Act. In its revised disclosure policy, the RBI has exempted various other information such as inspection or scrutiny reports of non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and returns filed by the NBFCs. However, it is interesting to note that Section 22 of the RTI Act overrides all the other laws as far as disclosure of information is concerned. Section 22 of the Act states, The provisions of this Act shall have effect notwithstanding anything inconsistent therewith contained in the Official Secrets Act, 1923 and any other law for the time being in force or in any instrument having effect by virtue of any law other than this Act. Mr Mittal says, "RBI in its submission before the Supreme Court contempt case has given an undertaking that they will amend the disclosure policy to be in cognisance with the orders of apex court in the Jayantilal Mistry Vs RBI judgement. But it is clear from the amendment carried out by RBI on 30th April that the central bank had given a false undertaking and wants to continue to defy orders of the Supreme Court as well as the order in the contempt petition." Earlier, both, the apex court as well as central information commission (CIC), had held that RBI cannot refuse to put in the public domain the annual inspection reports of banks. However, RBI has refused to follow these orders saying that these reports contain 'fiduciary information' as defined under the RTI Act and, hence, cannot be placed in the public domain. RTI activists Subhash Chander Agrawal and Mr Mittal had moved the top court seeking contempt action against RBI governor for not complying with its 2015 judgement. The petitioners had claimed that RBI and its former governor Dr Urjit Patel had 'wilfully and deliberately' disobeyed the apex court's judgement asking the central bank to disclose information under the RTI Act. The two petitioners had sought initiation of contempt of court action against former Governor of RBI for not disclosing information as directed by the top court. One of the contempt petitions filed by Mr Mittal mentioned that RBI refused to provide information sought about the inspection reports of some banks. In the petition, Mumbai-based Mr Mittal, represented by senior counsel Prashant Bhushan and Pranav Sachdeva, had contended that he had sought information under the RTI Act in December 2015 like copies of inspection reports of ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank and State Bank of India (SBI) from April 2011 and copies of case files, with file notings on various irregularities detected by RBI in the case of Sahara group of companies and erstwhile Bank of Rajasthan. However, in January 2016, RBI denied the information saying that such information is exempted under Section 8(1)(e) of the RTI Act and Section 45NB of the RBI Act. ) The petitioners recalled the Supreme Court ruling in a case that RBI is clearly not in any fiduciary relationship with any bank. RBI has no legal duty to maximise the benefit of any public sector or private sector bank and, thus, there is no relationship of 'trust' between them. ( Read: SC issues contempt notice to RBI in RTI case Last year in November, the CIC too had issued a show-cause notice to Dr Patel, the then governor of RBI, for not honouring a judgement of the Supreme Court on disclosure of wilful defaulters list who had not paid loans of Rs50 crore and more. Earlier in February 2016, the Supreme Court had directed RBI to furnish a list of the companies which are in default of loans in excess of Rs500 crore or whose loans have been restructured under corporate debt restructuring (CDR) scheme by banks and financial institutions. ( Read: Supreme Court asks RBI to submit list of big defaulters Before that in December 2015, the apex court, in a landmark judgement, had told RBI that the banking regulator cannot withhold information citing 'fiduciary relations' under the RTI Act. Prashant Ruia-led Essar Steel Asia Holdings (ESAHL), the majority shareholder in Essar Steel, on Tuesday moved the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) seeking rejection of ArcelorMittal's bid to buy out the company. "Lakshmi Mittal and ArcelorMittal India Ltd (AM) had conspired to suppress vital facts and misled the Committee of Creditors (CoC), the Supreme Court and the appellate tribunal into believing that Lakshmi Mittal and ArcelorMittal had ceased to have any business association with his brothers Pramod Mittal and Vinod Mittal and their companies," ESAHL said in a statement. In its application, ESAHL cited a sworn affidavit filed by ArcelorMittal on October 17, 2018 which said that there had been no business association between Lakshmi Mittal and his brothers and their companies for more than 20 years and Lakshmi Mittal or Arcelor has no shareholding in any of the companies where his brothers are promoters, including GPI Textiles, Balasore Alloys and Gontermann Piepers. ESAHL, which holds 72 per cent stake in Essar Steel, presented documents which show that as late as September 30, 2018, Lakshmi Mittal was a co-promoter of one Navoday Consultants along with his brothers Pramod and Vinod Mittal, and Navoday was in turn a promoter of GPI Textiles, Balasore Alloys and Gontermann Piepers. ESAHL said: "These facts make it clear that ArcelorMittal has suppressed and concealed from the CoC and all courts that its promoter Lakshmi Mittal continued to have business relations with his brothers Pramod Mittal and Vinod Mittal, and accordingly AM was ineligible to submit a resolution plan under Section 29A of the IBC." The statement noted that Gontermann Peipers and GPI Textiles are classified as NPA and due to association of Lakshmi Mittal with these companies and AM would be a related party of these companies, thus making it ineligible under the provisions of the Insolvency and Bakruptcy Code (IBC). ESAHL had offered Rs 54,389 crore to the lenders of the company. This proposal was rejected by the CoC. ArcelorMittal, however, dismissed the claims in the statement as frivolous. "This is the latest in a long line of frivolous attempts by the defaulting promoters of Essar Steel to distract from the central fact that Indian lenders have declared ArcelorMittal as the most credible owner of Essar Steel." It said that following the Supreme Court judgement of October 2018, ArcelorMittal paid Rs 7,500 crore to the lenders of Uttam Galva and KSS Petron to become eligible to bid for Essar Steel. "In contrast, the promoters of Essar Steel, who are responsible for leading the company into insolvency, have failed to repay any amount to lenders and reverse their ineligibility as required by the Supreme Court," ArcelorMittal's statement said. The latest allegations of the Essar Steel promoters are "yet another attempt to subvert the directions of the Supreme Court and the IBC". The assertions of ESAHL are "irrelevant, misleading and will be rebutted in the strongest possible terms", it said. The Delhi-based appellate tribunal had approved ArcelorMittal's bid of Rs 42,000 crore on March 18, dismissing the Essar promoters Ruias' plea against the approval of the NCLT's Ahmedabad bench to the bid. The long-drawn resolution process hit another roadblock with the Supreme Court last month stopping ArcelorMittal from making payment to lenders to buy the insolvent steel entity, thereby stretching billionaire Lakshmi Mittal's wait to have a foothold in his home country. Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article. Budding lithium producers Lepidico Ltd [ASX:LPD] and Desert Lion Energy [CVE:DLI], have agreed to merge in order to further consolidate the market and create a global leader in the development of lithium chemicals from Lepidolite. The arrangement comes after Lepidico reached out to Desert Lion as part of the companys long-term strategy to acquire lithium assets in the East African region. Canadian-listed Desert Lion currently owns the Rubicon and Helikon deposit sites located in Namibia. Lepidicos share price is valued at 33 cents, down 13.16%. All roads lead to virtually integrated lithium production The definitive agreement assures that Lepidico will assume all of Desert Lions shares at a transaction of 5.4 ordinary Lepidico shares for every 1 Desert Lion share. The agreement will combine Lepidicos own lithium processing capabilities (including the L-Max process, which facilitates high quality lithium hydroxide) and Desert Lions existing lepidolite mineral resources to make a vertically integrated lithium development company. Lepidico maintain that they share a common goal with Desert Lion, saying they want to: Get to free cash flow generation as swiftly as possible by developing a scalable, vertically integrated new lithium chemical business based on lithium mica and lithium phosphate minerals. To enhance this cash flow generation, Lepidico has committed to an Entitlements Offer priced at $0.029 per New Share in the hopes that it will raise $10.8 million, which will advance its technologies and projects to be development ready, and ultimatelydemonstrate the commercial viability of L-Max and LOH-MaxTM, and become a globally significant, vertically integrated lithium chemical producer. The Desert Lion transaction will provide Lepidico with a direct controlling interest in its first quality lepidolite deposit under an awarded mining license, providing a clear path to development. A clear path Given the assets that both Lepidico and Desert Lion are bringing to the table with this merger, you might think their vision for bigger, better lithium exploration would be what investors would want. But Lepidicos share price has fallen almost 14% since market open. With a stable quarterly activities report showing increased lithium resource tonnage and cost savings, its hard to know whats causing the sell-off. Management believe that the L-Max and LOH-Max processes could potentially lead to extra lithium supply and extra disruption of the market. Whether or not this is true, it seems investors will need more in the way of collateral until they commit. Regards, Ryan Clarkson-Ledward, For Money Morning PS: Dont buy a single lithium stock until youve read this free report. Download our free guide, How to Invest in Lithium, to learn more. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday revealed Peter Joemel Advincula the man claiming to be the infamous Bikoy in the Ang Totoong Narco List videos gave false information to agencies related to law enforcement in the past. PNP Chief General Oscar Albayalde said those agencies, which he refused to name, paid Advincula 40,000 to 70,000 on several occasions in November 2016 for information on the illegal drug trade. Based on our monitoring and profiling sa kanya, way back 2016 noong nandoon pa siya sa (New) Bilibid Prison, he made it to believe through one inmate also, the same kwento niya na siya ay involved sa isang sindikato at meron siyang alam na malaking laboratoryo sa Bicol. It so happened noong ni-verify namin 'yung sinasabi niyang laboratoryo ay isang resort pala, he said. [Translation: Based on our monitoring and profiling of him, way back 2016 when he was still in the New Bilibid Prison, he made it to believe through one inmate also, the same story that he is involved in a syndicate and he knows of a large laboratory in Bicol. It so happened that when we verified, the laboratory in question is actually a resort.] In an interview on CNN Philippines News Night, Albayalde said the resort in question is in Misibis Bay where Advincula claimed the operations center for the drug syndicate he previously worked for existed. Albayalde said the inmate Advincula talked to, a former colonel, informed one of the police officers in Camp Crame involved in the anti-illegal drugs campaign. Nagbebenta ito ng information kung sino ang lalapit sa kanya [He sells information to whomever approaches him], Albayalde added. The PNP chief also affirmed the claim of Senate President Vicente "Tito" Sotto III that Advincula tagged former President Benigno Aquino III, ex-Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, and then-Justice Secretary Leila de Lima in the drug syndicate "Quadrangle Group" in a sworn statement in 2016. He even provided a false document. The similar document that he showed during his YouTube uploads, Albayalde said referring to the document showed tagging President Rodrigo Duterte and his kin to the illegal drug trade. The countrys top cop said the statements in 2016 and 2019 are similar, and only the names were changed. Albayalde said they usually pay informants for reliable information but in Advinculas case, the information turned out to be false upon checking. Ang motivation diyan is always financial support para magsalita, usually. Not all. Pero usually, pag kumukuha ka ng information from an informant, talagang kailangang may suporta, he said. [Translation: The motivation is always financial support to talk, usually. Not all. But usually, if you get information from an informant, you need to provide support.] Albayalde said Advincula had the knack to concoct information, and thus he was entertained by the Integrated Bar of the Philippines. How can we believe him now? In fact, his reputation is questionable because hes facing several estafa cases, he said. Aside from a conviction for large-scale illegal recruitment and a pending estafa case before the National Bureau of Investigation, Advincula has a pending large-scale illegal recruitment case in Baguio City, Albayalde said. Despite all this, Albayalde said a complaint must be filed against Advincula. Melbourneheadquartered global wine compony Treasury Wine Estates Ltd [ASX:TWE] had shed 6.37% off of its share price this morning, losing $1.03 to trade at $15.14 per share. TWE has come to prominence over the years, laying claim to some of Australias most iconic wine brands, including Penfolds and Wolf Blass. The company sells wine in more than 100 countries around the world. TWE blasted by US hedge fund, CEO sells shares The Treasury Wine share price has come under increased downwards pressure since Tuesday after being blasted by a high profile hedge fund manager at a New York investor conference. Angela Aldrich from Bayberry Capital Partners claimed this week at the Sohn Investment Conference that Treasury shares were overvalued by more than 50%. Ms Aldrich accused the Australian wine company of artificially inflating sales figures. Specifically, Ms Aldrich and Bayberry Capital suspect TWE of channel stuffing, a practice of pushing a larger amount of stock through a retailer than can be sold. Bayberry Capital are shorting Treasury shares, betting the price will fall. While the share price only dipped marginally yesterday, it seems Ms Aldrichs criticism has had a greater impact on investors today. Free report: Aussie stock picker Sam Volkering (with gains as high as 1,431% in the last 18 months) reveals what he believes are his next four big potential winners. The knee-jerk reaction seen today deserves its own criticism. Despite the hedge funds claims that TWCs US market isnt growing, the companys brand 19 Crimes listed as the second biggest selling Premium-Plus imported table wine in the US in 2018. According to wine industry publication Shaken News Daily, 19 Crimes depletion rates in the US have increased by 51% referring to the rate at which wine leaves the companys warehouse en route to end users. Coinciding with the harsh criticism from across the Pacific, Treasury Wine Estates chief executive Mike Clarke has helped trigger a plunge in the groups share price. Announced this morning, the CEO offloaded almost $7 million in shares last week. The company said the sale was purely for personal reasons. Mr Clarke continues to hold a significant relevant interest in 1,795,445 company securities, made up of 542,994 ordinary shares of the company and 1,252,451 performance rights in the company. While its unlikely the two incidents are related, the timing is unfortunate for TWE shareholders. Whats next for Treasury? Despite the scathing assessment from the US, the criticism seems short sighted, failing to consider Treasurys broad asset base and the popularity of Australian wines in China and the UK. TWE reiterated its guidance for growth in earnings of approximately 25% for fiscal 2019, and in the range of approximately 15% to 20% for fiscal 2020. The rest of 2019 will be interesting for TWE and Australian wine producers. Colliers Agribusiness 2019 report predicts that demand could outstrip supply, citing production trends and seasonal challenges. Australian wine exports increased 5% over the year ending 31 March 2019 to $2.78 billion, with China, the US, and the UK taking out the top three spots in terms of value. The value of Chinese exports increased by 7% to $1.11 billion, while US exports value declined 3% to $424 million. With the past 10 years seeing a glut of Australian wine producers appear on the market, the report anticipates the years ahead will see smaller production numbers with the intention of removing the glut. Colliers said, This will increase demand for wine grapes and place upward pressure on fruit prices and vineyard values. Regards, Ryan Clarkson-Ledward, For Money Morning PS: Check out this must read: Sam has already bagged 1,431% in the last 18 months. Could his next four picks be just as lucrative? Click here to download your free report now to find out. May 08, 2019 Will the U.S. And Israel Wage A "Summer War"? J. Swift comments at the end of the Iran JCPOA thread (emphasis added): After sleeping on all the increasingly shrill statements being issued by Bolton & friends designed to amp up pressure and generally beating the war drums against Iran, I woke up with a strange thought this morning. For some time there have been indications that Nuttyahoo is angling toward a summer attack on Lebanon/Hezbollah. The US has been seeing its own influence in Lebanon waning, and of course Bolton wants an excuse for a heavy but "limited" strike on Iran. I say "limited" because I'm sure the actual military planners have been pretty blunt about what an actual full blown war with Iran would look like, and it wouldn't be good. But just as with Venezuela, the neocons tend to believe their own propaganda, and believe that all of their enemies are at the tipping point because of all of their economic warfare, such that military strikes on critical civilian infrastructure is all it would take to induce the population to "throw off the yoke of oppression." I understand the US already has a tripwire presence in Lebanon, and with all the odd, vague warnings about Iranian proxies and impending attacks, and rumblings of Israeli designs on Lebanon, and the "intel" being overtly Israeli supplied, what if it's all connected? What if the Israelis have convinced the US neocons that they are willing to "take out" Hezbollah, to secure themselves some of that peace and security, and all the US has to do is a lot of the dirty work (provide air support, etc.). Since Hezbollah is probably the most famous "Iranian proxy," the implied threat would be that if Hezbollah in any way tries to defend itself or especially strike back at Israel (which of course they will), Bolton will declare that Iran must be punished for its aggression against beloved Israel, and a massive air and missile strike will be unleashed on Iran, in hopes that it will then just roll over. If Iran tries to close the Straits, then Venezuela will be struck in like manner. Yes, I know it's all demented, but since that pretty much describes every US war plan for the last 20 years, it makes one wonder.... First: I am not aware of a U.S. "tripwire presence in Lebanon". There are, on and off, a few U.S. special forces training the Lebanese army but that is it. There are indeed strong rumors of an attack on Lebanon during this summer. There have been discussions within Hizbullah about an expected summer war were leaked to Elijah Magnier and Abdel Bari Atwan. Hizbullah denied the reports but both are serious journalist with the necessary connections. In his May 2 speech Hassan Nasrallah, the Hizbullah leader, talked about a threat of war against Lebanon. According to him the threat of war was not communicated from Israel, but by the Trump administration: US Diplomats pressuring Lebanese state to give part of our territorial waters to Israel for it's possible oil and gas resources, but we will not even give them a cup of water. US Diplomats threaten Lebanese government with war against Israel if they do not get rid of Hezbollah's ballistic [missiles] capabilities. Israeli strategists warn of deadly weak points in IDF, despite affirming it's strong points, And I warn them of Lebanon's deadly strong points, despite it's seeming weak points. The Axis of Resistance, in spite of sanctions, is stronger than ever. Everyone in Israel agrees that any future war with Lebanon must be brief, decisive, and ending with a clear Israeli Victory; but who can do that now? These days are gone. Israel that fears war with blockaded and surrounded Gaza can never hope to set foot in Lebanon. We promise all Israeli units thinking of crossing Lebanon that they will be destroyed and humiliated on Live TV. Current U.S. relations with the government of Lebanon are bad. The U.S. would certainly give Israel a green light should it want to wage a war. It may even entice it to attack Lebanon. The purported aim of such a war would be to destroy Hizbullah's long range missiles. Another aim would be to bring the Lebanese government under control of a USrael friendly leadership. Both aims are delusional. Much of Israel's vulnerable economic points would be hit before even a small share of Hizbullah's missiles would be found and eliminated. The recent short war with Gaza has again shown that Israel is not willing to sustain much damage in a fight and tried to stop it as soon as possible. Lebanon has been through a long civil war and found a modus of understanding that underwrites the current government. That can only be changed through another civil war which no one in Lebanon is willing to fight. Hoping that a war on Lebanon would solve any of Israel's problems is unrealistic and can only be believed in Washington DC. Israel's Bibi Netanyahoo knows of the danger and he is not a risk taker. Moreover Hizbullah's retaliation capability is only one of many reasons why a war seems unlikely. Then again - the Islamic Jihad, a group that fights next to Hamas in the Gaza Strip but is financed by Iran, also speaks of a summer war. Elijah J. Magnier @ejmalrai - 5:05 utc - 8 May 2019 #Palestinian Islamic Jihad Secretary general Ziyad al-Nakhla to @AlMayadeenNews : "I expect a large war this summer with #Israel". The partners of the 'Axis of Resistance', Hizbullah in Lebanon, Syria, Iran and Shia militia in Iraq, announced several times that they would support each other in a war against Israel. It is thus likely that any attack on Lebanon (or Syria, or Iran) would see a response from another country. Hassan Nasrallah, for example, is on the record that he would "do his duty" should Iran be attacked. Any war could thus escalate in unpredictable ways. While some hawks in the U.S. would probably welcome such an escalation, neither Israel nor its silent allies in Saudi Arabia and UAE would escape from receiving significant damage. They know this and will act accordingly. The most important reason why a summer war is unlikely is Donald Trump. He wants to win a reelection. A months long, unpredictable war that might cause serious damage to Israel and other U.S. allies in the region could be catastrophic for him. Some of his advisors, most obviously John 'Stache' Bolton, but others too, may well try to instigate a war. But the ultimate 'decider' is Donald Trump and I, for now, see no reason for him to wage one. Posted by b on May 8, 2019 at 16:59 UTC | Permalink Comments next page next page A traveller has provoked revulsion after suggesting Air New Zealand dump its traditional lolly treat at the end of a flight and offer prunes instead. Auckland man Freddie Coltart received more than 200 angry reactions to his suggestion in a post on Air New Zealand's Facebook page. "I know you've been doing this for years but don't you think this might have become outdated? Kids eating sweets is bad for their dental and physical health," he wrote. "In saying this I do understand these sweets are part of your brand. So I propose a healthier alternative... What about handing out single serving prunes instead? "As one of NZ's biggest brands it would be good to be encouraging clean eating and healthy digestion." On Saturday, once all the food has been taken to the post office in Morganton, workers and volunteers will sort through and divide up the food between Burke United Christian Ministries, East Burke Christian Ministries and a few other food pantries. They are encouraging everyone to fill them up, and if they want to do more, just use any type of plastic bag they have got and tie it up, he said. Leave it at the mailbox and the postal carrier will pick it up and take it back to the post office. This drive also helps BUCM and other pantries by giving them the opportunity to prepare for the summer months. Our summer needs are always the highest because the kids are home from schools and more will be coming to the soup kitchen many more families , especially grandparents , will be coming to shop for food because those young kids eat a lot, he said. Burleson says that canned meats and breakfast items are always in great need. That goes the quickest in our pantry, so canned meats and we always need peanut butter, jelly, macaroni and cheese, but really any nonperishable food can be used, he said. A man who was riding his lawnmower to a store to buy more beer was charged with DWI late Monday night. Roger Dennis Denton, 61, of 119 Berry St. in Morganton, was charged with driving while impaired, according to an arrest report from the Morganton Department of Public Safety. Denton was driving his lawnmower in the road near South Sterling and South College streets, according to the arrest report. When police approached Denton, they noticed he had blood on his hands and face. Denton told them he fell off his tractor while he was on his way to the store to get more beer. Officers asked Denton, on a scale of zero to 10, with zero being sober, how impaired he thought he was. Denton said he was about a nine, the report said. Burke EMS transported Denton to Carolinas HealthCare System Blue Ridge-Morganton for treatment of his injuries from falling off his lawnmower, the report said. There, Denton consented to a blood draw. It took just one day of use for several common sunscreen ingredients to enter the bloodstream at levels high enough to trigger a government safety investigation, according to a pilot study conducted by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, an arm of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The study, published Monday in the medical journal JAMA, also found that the blood concentration of three of the ingredients continued to rise as daily use continued and then remained in the body for at least 24 hours after sunscreen use ended. The four chemicals studied avobenzone, oxybenzone, ecamsule and octocrylene are part of a dozen that the FDA recently said needed to be researched by manufacturers before they could be considered "generally regarded as safe and effective." So should you stop using sunscreen? Absolutely not, experts say. "Studies need to be performed to evaluate this finding and determine whether there are true medical implications to absorption of certain ingredients," said Yale School of Medicine dermatologist Dr. David Leffell, a spokesman for the American Academy of Dermatology. He added that in the meantime, people should "continue to be aggressive about sun protection." "The sun is the real enemy here," said Scott Faber, senior vice president for government affairs at the Environmental Working Group, or EWG, an advocacy group that publishes a yearly guide on sunscreens. "It's not news that things that you put on your skin are absorbed into the body," Faber said. "This study is the FDA's way of showing sunscreen manufacturers they need to do the studies to see if chemical absorption poses health risks." The need to screen According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year than all other cancers combined. Around the world, melanoma ranks as the 19th most common cancer in both men and women, the World Cancer Research Fund says. In the United States, sunscreens were originally approved as an over-the-counter solution to sunburn. They came in two types: one using chemical combos to filter the sun, the other using minerals to block the sun such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which leave a telltale white coating. With many people not wanting to sport a white tint, the popularity of the chemical sunscreens soared. Because of the way they were used at the time, there wasn't a lot of concern about a potential health impact. But that soon changed, and the FDA began to ask the industry for safety testing, said David Andrews, senior scientist at the EWG. "They were originally used in small quantities to prevent sunburn on vacation," Andrews said. "Now they recommend applying these every day, applying them to large parts of your body. And the FDA began raising concerns." Small study of sunscreen chemicals The new FDA study enrolled 24 healthy volunteers who were randomly assigned to a spray or lotion sunscreen that contained avobenzone, oxybenzone or octocrylene as ingredients or a creme sunscreen that contained the chemical ecamsule. The volunteers were asked to put their assigned sunscreen on 75% of their bodies four times each day for four days. Thirty blood samples were taken from each volunteer over seven days. Of the six people using the ecamsule cream, five had levels of the chemical in their blood considered statistically significant by the end of day one. For the other three chemicals, especially oxybenzone, all of the volunteers showed significant levels after the first day. "Looking through the results tables of the study, one thing about oxybenzone stood out," Andrews said. "Oxybenzone was absorbed into the body at about 50 to 100 times higher concentration than any of these other three chemicals they tested." Of all of the sunscreen ingredients, oxybenzone is known to be the most common cause of contact allergies; a 10-year study found that 70% of people had a positive patch test when exposed. A Swiss study found oxybenzone or one of four other sunscreen chemicals in 85% of breast milk samples, sparking concern that newborns could be exposed. And Hawaii, the Pacific nation of Palau and Key West recently banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate because they cause coral bleaching and are dangerous to marine ecosystems. The European Union has mostly replaced oxybenzone in its sunscreen products with newer, more protective substances that block out more of the dangerous UVB and UVA rays. But those newer products have not passed the safety tests needed for FDA approval. So oxybenzone remains in use; in fact, a 2018 report by the EWG estimated that it was in two-thirds of all chemically based sunscreens sold in the United States. Protect yourself from the sun In an editorial accompanying the new study, former FDA Chairman Dr. Robert Califf assured readers that just because the research found chemical levels "well above the FDA guideline does not mean these ingredients are unsafe." The Personal Care Products Council, the national trade council for sunscreen, cosmetic and personal care products, agreed in a statement. "The presence of sunscreens in plasma after maximal use does not necessarily lead to safety issues," said Alex Kowcz, chief scientist for the council. "It's important for consumers to know that for the purpose of this study, sunscreens were applied to 75% of the body, four times per day for four days, which is twice the amount that would be applied in what the scientific community considers real-world conditions," Kowcz said. The council was concerned, she said, that the FDA's study might confuse consumers and discourage the use of sunscreen. When going outside, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying at least 1 ounce of sunscreen to all exposed skin every two hours or after swimming, including "back, neck, face, ears, tops of your feet and legs. If you have thinning hair, either apply sunscreen to your scalp or wear a wide-brimmed hat. To protect your lips, apply a lip balm with a SPF of at least 15," the academy says, adding that since UV rays are always present, sunscreen should be applied to exposed skin even on cloudy days and in the winter. Research urgently needed Califf said next steps would be appropriately designed clinical trials by industry to test safety and determine the optimal dose to prevent skin cancer while balancing risk and benefit. In addition, he said, "an urgent question involves absorption in infants and children, who have different ratios of body surface area to overall size and whose skin may absorb substances at differential rates." The Personal Care Products Council's statement said the industry has offered "state-of-the-art toxicological safety approaches as alternatives" to the FDA's testing method. "We look forward to our continued work with the FDA to ensure that consumers have access to products containing a broad variety of sunscreen active ingredients," Kowcz said. While science continues to answer questions about sunscreen, Califf and other experts call for the public to continue to protect their skin from the dangerous rays of the sun. The Environment Working Group recommends choosing a mineral sunscreen containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide when possible, while the American Academy of Dermatology recommends talking to a board-certified dermatologist if you are concerned about the safety of the sunscreen's ingredients. Both organizations say there are ways to protect yourself and your family other than sunscreen. Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun is at its hottest, and whenever your shadow is shorter than you. Use protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants and a hat with a wide brim, and don't forget the sunglasses. "It's seeking shade, using clothes and when necessary using sunscreen," Andrews said, "but not using sunscreen to prolong your time in the sun." The-CNN-Wire & 2019 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved. (CNN) Singapore has criminalized the sending of unsolicited intimate images, or "cyber flashing," as part of a major crackdown on sexual harassment online. The city state's parliament approved reforms to its criminal law on Monday, also including other new offenses for upskirt photography, and sharing or threatening to share sexual images, so-called "revenge porn." Anyone found guilty of "cyber flashing" could receive a custodial sentence of up to two years, while taking upskirt photos or videos is punishable by up to to two years in prison five years if the images are shared online. Courts can also impose fines and canings for offenses, common punishments in Singapore. "There has been prevalence of this. Persons intentionally send unsolicited pictures of their genitalia over social media or via messaging platforms. That will be criminalized. Penalties for that offense will be enhanced where the victim is below 14 years old," said K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law in Parliament. The changes are part of a sweeping reform of Singapore's Penal Code. Lawmakers seeking to overhaul the code have also recently made recommendations to remove immunity for marital rape, and to decriminalize suicide. 'Fake news' law The new law comes amid a general tightening of controls on the internet in Singapore. Parliament is currently debating a sweeping new law designed to crack down on so-called "fake news," which could see Facebook and other social media companies hit with big fines if they don't comply with censorship orders. Individuals found guilty of contravening the act can face fines of up to Singapore 50,000 SGD ($36,000) and custodial sentences of up to five years. If the "fake news" is posted using "an inauthentic online account or controlled by a bot," the total potential fine rises to Singapore 100,000 SGD and the maximum sentence to 10 years in prison. Companies such as Facebook, if found guilty of spreading "fake news," can face fines of up to 1 million SGD. What exactly constitutes "a false statement of fact" is to be defined by the government, which can then choose to issue a demand for a correction, removal of the offending post, or to pursue legal action against the poster or social network. It also follows a trend of other countries in Asia using concerns about disinformation online to allegedly crack down on speech. This story was first published on CNN.com "'Cyber flashers' in Singapore could now get two years in prison" To date, more than 300 residential spaces have been sold since sales began in October 2018. This volume represents approximately 75% of available units. The speed at which the available units sold shows once again just how much buyers trust Broccolinis expertise, COO Anthony Broccolini said. This enthusiasm gives us the opportunity to put the finishing touches on the redevelopment of this city block, president of real estate development and acquisitions Roger Plamondon stated. Victoria sur le Parc has been hailed as a welcome and powerful addition to the burgeoning Montreal housing market. The arrival of this distinctive building will truly consolidate and energize this key area of the Business District. The project will optimize land use in the Ville-Marie borough through densification and by creating a new park that will benefit the entire population, according to Robert Beaudry, District Councillor for Saint-Jacques and head of economic and commercial development, housing, and design on the Executive Committee of the City of Montreal. In its notice to the state, the company said it lacked the available cash to continue originating loans. Due to sudden and unexpected developments in the markets for certain financial assets the company uses as collateral for certain credit facilities to provide this liquidity, these lenders have reduced significantly the amount of liquidity they make available to the company, Paula Foster, Live Well Financial vice president, controller and human resources director, wrote in the notice. This reduction in credit availability combined with the challenging conditions in the market for mortgage loans, which were conditions outside the companys control, along with related regulatory issues, haver resulted in the company having insufficient available cash to continue operations. Foster insisted that the company had exercised commercially reasonable business judgment but could not reasonably forsee the circumstances that led to its closure, the Times-Dispatch reported. The company was founded in 2005 and at one time originated and serviced more than $2 billion in loans, according to the Times-Dispatch. In February, it was the number-seven reverse originator in the country, according to a report by Reverse Market Insight. Live Well Financial did not respond to MPA requests for comment. (Bloomberg) -- Pioneer Natural Resources Co. dismissed speculation its spiffing up the company to entice potential buyers amid an escalating bidding war for fellow Permian Basin oil driller Anadarko Petroleum Corp. The stock plunged more than 8 percent. Chief Executive Officer Scott Sheffield, who re-took the top job at Pioneer earlier this year following the abrupt retirement of protege Tim Dove, is shrinking spending, offloading assets and asking one-third of senior managers to retire. That led analysts to suggest during a conference call on Tuesday that the company may be on the auction block. I didnt come back to sell the company, said Sheffield, who founded the company and whose previous stint as CEO ended in 2016. RELATED: Houston startup buys Pioneer's Eagle Ford assets for $475M Sheffields remarks during the conference call came just 11 weeks after a boardroom shuffle that saw him replace Dove. Late Monday, the company disclosed plans to sell or find joint-venture partners for some oil fields, and announced the divestiture of its entire South Texas portfolio in a deal thatll trigger a pre-tax, non-cash loss of $550 million. We view this as disappointing, said Leo Mariani, an analyst at KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc., who had forecast Pioneer would reap a $400 million gain on the sale. Sheffield is skeptical of any imminent consolidation wave in the Permian region. I personally dont think theres going to be a lot of M&A over the next 1-2 years, Sheffield said. Over the next five years I think the majors will definitely start running out of inventory. Things may happen but I dont think there will be a wave of consolidation. He also dialed back Pioneers long-range annual output-growth target to 15 percent from 20 percent, a response to investor demands across the oil industry to restrain capital outlays in favor of fattening dividends and buybacks. Shrinking Headcount Pioneer was down 7.8 percent to $144.12 at 1:29 p.m. in New York trading after falling as much as 8.5 percent after Sheffields not-for-sale comment. The stock was one of the days worst performers in the S&P 500 Index. Sheffield told analysts during the call that he was surprised the South Texas transaction had been negatively received. American shale drillers are pumping too much crude and need to rein it in to avoid a price-crushing glut, he added. Pioneer provided few details on the scope of the voluntary executive retirements. The companys headcount has declined in four of the past five years and ended last year at its lowest since 2010, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Pioneer employed 3,177 people at the end of 2018, down from a peak of 4,203 in 2013, the year before the last oil-market collapse. 2019 Bloomberg L.P. PUNTA GORDA, Fla. (AP) Sheriff's officials say a Florida woman pulled a small alligator from her yoga pants during a traffic stop. The Charlotte County sheriff's deputy stopped a pickup truck Monday afternoon after it ran a stop sign and 22-year-old driver Michael Clemons told him he and his 25-year-old passenger Ariel Machan-Le Quire were collecting frogs and snakes under an overpass. He gave the deputy permission to search bags in the truck. When the deputy found 41 3-stripe turtles in the woman's backpack, he asked if she had anything else. She pulled the 1-foot (0.3-meter) gator from her yoga pants. Charlotte County Sheriff's officials suggested an explanation on Twitter for the incident: "Not to be outdone by #FloridaMan, a #FloridaWoman pulled an alligator out of her pants." The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission took over the investigation. Traveling hail repair businesses have set up shop throughout Midland after last months storm, but some vehicle insurance agents are wary of the companies. Hail Solutions of El Paso has four locations in Midland, three tents and one permanent shop on Midkiff Road. Were a natural catastrophe response team, said manager Jim Medina. We go to where there is hail damage and provide communities some relief. James Salas of Nationwide Auto Repair, which is not affiliated with Nationwide Insurance, said they first go to the city council and get their permits approved, then open up shop and do our magic. His tent is located in the parking lot of La Casa Verde Nursery on Midland Drive. He said hes been in Midland for three weeks, and business has just started picking up this week. However, Nationwide Insurance Agent Lisa Copeland said its often better to use a local business. RELATED: Insurance Council puts hailstorm losses in Midland at $100 million The thing youve got to make sure is, make sure that person has been around for a while, she said. Make sure its someone who hasnt just popped up to make money and leave town. Copeland said customers should be leery of out-of-town companies. We dont recommend any company like that, she said. I dont know any insurance company who would recommend them. Salas said he works with people after theyve filed an insurance claim. He said insurance companies check the work thats been done before they release a payment. Vehicles in need of dent repair are typically at the shop for 24 to 48 hours, he said. Cars with paint damage can take longer, sometimes up to a week. He said vehicles that are brought in stay overnight at the lot, but customers are covered if anything happens to their vehicles. They also cover the cost of a rental car, he said. Copeland said she recommends customers use a company they can follow up with after their car is repaired. Go with a company that has been here and someone where after your car has been fixed you can go back to, she said. Once [out-of-town companies] leave town, theyre gone. You cant call them; theyre not going to answer your questions. Robert Fabian, the boyfriend of a college student found buried in a shallow grave in West Texas, was found guilty of murder by a Caldwell County jury on Tuesday. The verdict was handed down late Tuesday afternoon, according to television station KMID. The remains of the woman Fabian was convicted of killing, Zuzu Verk, were found in plastic painter's drop cloths in a shallow grave near Alpine in far west Texas, according to the arrest warrant affidavit. Verk was from far north Fort Worth, and she graduated from Keller Timber Creek High School. She was a student at Sul Ross State University in Alpine. The case was prosecuted by attorneys with the Texas Attorney General's Office and the trial was moved to Caldwell County after a change of venue motion was granted by the court. Fabian also was found guilty of tampering with evidence. Fabian's friend Chris Estrada was also arrested in the case and charged with evidence tampering, a second-degree felony. Estrada pleaded no contest and will be sentenced after Fabian's trial. Fabian told police that he and Verk began to argue during their dinner at his apartment the night of Oct. 11, 2016, and that when the disagreement grew "heated," Verk left between 2 and 3 a.m. The affidavit said Fabian called Estrada twice about 3:15 a.m. the night of Verk's disappearance and stayed in contact with him throughout the day. Estrada told police that he went to Fabian's apartment later that day to paint a table. They decided to drink instead, the affidavit said. At about 10:15 p.m., the two stopped by a Dollar General store, where Fabian bought three drop cloths, according to surveillance footage. From about 10:40 p.m. to midnight, according to electronic data, Estrada was back at Fabian's apartment. From about midnight to 12:20 a.m., Estrada was "at or near various commercial dumpsters in the area," the affidavit said. Later, Estrada went to a friend's house. The friend opened her door and "observed Chris acting strange" and looking "very bothered to the extent that it scared her," the affidavit said. When she asked Estrada what was wrong, he told her, "I don't want to get you involved. Don't ask questions." She asked him if anything was "newsworthy," the affidavit said. Estrada shrugged and said, "If it is newsworthy, I didn't do anything. I'm OK." When Verk's disappearance became public Oct. 14, Fabian told a friend, "If I know a really big secret and two people know it, then the other has to be dead," according to the affidavit. Fabian then told his friend that he was joking. Fabian later asked his friend if he could use his computer to delete certain Facebook posts that "did not look good as he was a suspect" in Verk's disappearance, the affidavit says. Police searched Fabian's apartment and found no sheets or pillowcases on his bed. Investigators found one of the three drop cloths, but the other two were missing, the affidavit said.a Verk's remains were found in early 2017. -- This story includes information from Star-Telegram archives. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. 3 1 of 3 Midland County Sheriffs Office Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Midland Police Department Show More Show Less 3 of 3 UPDATE: During morning testimony, Midland County District Attorney Laura Nodolf showed the court video from the wreck and after the wreck that was recorded by the dash camera in Abrahims police vehicle and from Abrahims body camera. Also, a member of MPDs traffic division was on the stand talking about reconstruction of the wreck scene. 5 1 of 5 Courtesy of the Parker County Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 2 of 5 Courtesy of the Parker County Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 Courtesy of the Parker County Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 5 of 5 The human femur bone perplexed a Parker County sheriff's deputy as it sat on the tailgate of Scott Fuller's truck. According to the deputy's incident report, Fuller had gone fishing March 22 behind his Parker County home along the Brazos River when he made the discovery in the water. He called police the next day, after his mother-in-law suggested the bone appeared to come from a human, the report said. Its National Nurses Week, and advocates for the profession are continuing what they say is a fight for safer working conditions. There is no limit in Illinois as to how many patients a registered nurse can treat at one time. According to Alice Johnson, executive director of the Illinois Nurses Association, this can lead to understaffing and compromised patient care. Minimum nurse-staffing levels for hospitals could be created through the Safe Patient Limits Act, HB 2604, she said. First and foremost, nurses are patient advocates, and the Safe Patient Limits Act is really about protecting and caring for patents, Johnson said. I think were going to see real change this year because nurses are energized and ready to step up and make sure that this law gets passed. There are more than 182,000 registered nurses in Illinois. Half of them work in hospital or acute-care settings. On a medical-surgical unit, the likelihood of patient death rises by 7% for each patient past four who is assigned to an RN, Johnson said. Opponents of the bill counter that there is no solid evidence that mandatory staffing ratios improve quality of care. Johnson said she questions claims by opponents that the limits would be too costly for hospitals to implement, leading to closures or reduced services. More nurses is going to mean better patient care, its going to mean more safety for the nurses and that is going to save money, she said. There was a study that showed that implementing the Safe Patient limits would save over $1 billion for Illinois hospitals. Improved nurse-to-patient ratios also would reduce costs by reducing workplace burnout and staff turnover, Johnson said. California is the only state that has a law mandating required minimum nurse-to-patient ratios, which a 2015 study associated with more than 50% fewer occupational injuries and illnesses per 10,000 registered nurses a year. If you didnt think Democrats in Springfield were serious before about adopting a progressive tax system, they proved last week theyll do almost anything to help Gov. J.B. Pritzker pass his signature campaign promise. Even if that means reversing themselves on years of bad policy positions. Senate President John Cullerton upped the ante when he introduced a measure that would eliminate the states crippling estate tax, otherwise known as a death tax. Illinois is one of a handful of states that taxes larger inheritances after a person dies. The tax applies to estates valued at $4 million or more. It is especially harmful to downstate family farmers, but also impacts retirees or near retirees who over time have been able to build their small businesses, 401(k)s or other retirement funds. When the matriarch or patriarch of a family farm with as few as 500 acres dies, the family could be forced to sell off much of its land just to pay the estate tax. For retirees, whats the incentive to stay in Illinois if as much as 16% (the highest Illinois tax rate) of their wealth will be confiscated by state government and not passed on to their children upon death? Conservatives have been trying to get rid of Illinois estate tax for years, but the Democrat-controlled General Assembly resisted until Cullertons proposal was introduced. Of course, theres a catch. The estate tax goes away only if voters approve a constitutional amendment in November 2020 to allow for a progressive income tax rate in which higher wage earners are charged higher rates. The Senates plan calls for a top rate of 7.99% on individuals who earn $750,000 or more and couples who earn $1 million. That would be up from the existing flat tax of 4.95%. To get the amendment on the 2020 ballot, a supermajority of lawmakers in both the House and the Senate must approve measures this session. Its largely been assumed that the Senate has enough votes to pass it. But the outlook in the House is murkier. Is Cullertons proposal meant to persuade some downstate Democrats who might be waffling on the progressive tax to jump on board? Another sweetener filed this week came from state Sen. Andy Manar, D-Bunker Hill. Manars measure would freeze school property taxes in years when the state meets its education funding responsibilities, which by itself is a tough ask. But Illinoisans pay the second-highest property taxes in the country. Property tax relief would be welcome news to lawmakers because it would be welcome news to their constituents. Like Cullertons proposal, Manars is tied to final approval of the progressive tax structure. Another carrot for another bought vote? Of course, who can trust state legislators to meet their responsibilities or their promises, such as fully funding education. When lawmakers passed a temporary income tax increase in 2011, the new revenue was supposed to go to pay down the states massively underfunded pension systems, estimated at the time to be just under $100 billion. The pension deficit has since grown to more than $134 billion. And the permanent income tax hike approved in 2017 was supposed to right the states fiscal ship. Instead, Illinois faces a fiscal deficit of more than $1.2 billion this year and still maintains a current backlog of bills of nearly $8 billion. Pritzker also is proposing another pension holiday to balance next years budget while he waits to see what happens with his progressive tax plan, so the unfunded liability will grow. The promise of a property tax freeze sounds enticing, but how can voters trust it? And eliminating the death tax is good policy on its own. It shouldnt be used as a sweetener to entice support for other tax hikes. Given lawmakers track record and history of broken promises, taxpayers shouldnt take the bait. Dan McCaleb is editor of Illinois News Network and the digital hub ILNews.org. He can be reached at dmccaleb@ilnews.org. Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office Logo View Photos East Sonora, CA The call came in Monday night to Tuolumne County Sheriffs Dispatch detailing possible drug use going on inside a vehicle parked at a local shopping center. What upset the caller, according to sheriffs officials, was that there was a juvenile hanging around the three suspects. When deputies arrived at the Mono Village Plaza on Mono Way in East Sonora they could see the juvenile standing by a parked vehicle. The occupants included 26-year-old Quentin Gelhaus, who was already out on bail for drug sales, 23-year-old Robert Linn and 22-year-old Chance Sommers, all from Sonora. Confronting the subjects, deputies asked if they had any drugs and that is when Linn turned over three baggies filled with cocaine. A vehicle search revealed a glass vile and another baggie of cocaine. During a body search of Gelhaus, deputies also found LSD. All three were arrested on various drug charges with Linn tacking on an additional charge of an adult selling a controlled substance to a minor, which carries a $50,000 bail. The juvenile was released to a parent. Congressman Tom McClintock View Photos Washington, DC As the House Judiciary Committee today discusses the possibility of holding Attorney General William Barr in contempt for defying a subpoena, Representative Tom McClintock is praising Barrs decision. The committee, led by Democrats, is holding a hearing in Washington, DC related to Barrs decision to withhold subpoenaed evidence related to the Mueller Report, and declining to provide an un-redacted version. McClintock says, The American people can plainly see what is going on here. For two and a half years they have been force fed a brazen and monstrous lie that the President of the United States is a traitor who is loyal to a foreign and hostile power. McClintock also stated that Congressional leaders are overstepping their bounds by demanding the documents. Congress is the lawmaking branch of government. If this committee feels it is so important to see the Grand Jury testimony, it can change the law. But, it cannot order the highest ranking law enforcement official in our country to break that law. Minutes before the hearing started, President Donald Trump sent a letter to the chair, Jerry Nadler, asserting executive privilege over the items requested. Spencer Hight went on a shooting spree in September 2017. He got drunk at the Local Public House, a bar just a few blocks away from his ex-wife's home, then stumbled through her door, heavily armed with a pistol, a semi-automatic rifle and a knife, police say. His ex, Meredith Hight, was hosting a Dallas Cowboys viewing party with some mutual friends, some of who stood in their wedding. Hight shot and killed eight of those people, include his ex-wife, and seriously injured another. He did it to exact revenge on his ex-wife, authorities say. He was then shot and killed by police on the scene. Last week, police arrested and charged Lindsey Glass, the bartender who served Hight that night, one year and seven months ago. In 2018, the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission issued a report concluding Glass violated the "Sale to Certain Persons" law by serving Hight, whose blood alcohol level was four times the state's legal limit when he drove to his estranged wife's house, according NBC Dallas Fort Worth. Under the Texas law, a person is guilty of the offense if he or she negligently "sells an alcoholic beverage to an habitual drunkard or an intoxicated or insane person." The misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail or fine of up to $500, or both. "Hight committed an American nightmare," Glass's attorney Scott Palmer said during an interview on Monday. "He was hellbent on committing this heinous act," but to blame a bartender two years later, he said, is not justice, but a stretch to hold someone accountable. According to ABC affiliate WFAA, a lawsuit filed by the victims' families alleged Glass told a colleague, Justin Banks, that Hight was "drunk and being weird" and brandished a gun inside the bar. When Banks escorted Hight to the parking lot, court documents said Banks asked him to leave his weapons behind and should let Banks drive him home because he wasn't sober. The lawsuit continued: "Hight told Banks he was having problems with his estranged wife and had something to do 'tonight.' Banks told Hight he should do them when he is sober to which Hight responded that he 'couldn't do the things he needs to do tonight without being this intoxicated,'" WFAA reported. Although it's undisputed that Glass served Hight liquor, she took actions that were not legally required of her that night, too. Filings allege Glass tried to convince Hight not to drive (he didn't listen), called the owner of Local Public House to ask whether she should call the police (he said not to), and then she followed Hight to the house, though she left before the shooting began. "There are allegations Hight foreshadowed what he would do and Lindsey Glass felt something was wrong," Palmer told The Washington Post. "Lindsey is the person who called 911. Not only did she know Spencer, but she was friends with Meredith and was supposed to be at the party that evening," he said, noting that the detectives commended Glass for saving lives that day. Attorney Daniel Garrigan, who represents four of the eight shooting victims, said he was surprised it had taken this long for the police department to file a criminal case against Glass. "Clearly what she did was improper. Had she called the police or cut this person off from having more alcohol these people might well be alive," he told The Post. "When you've got a case where the acts of omissions of the bar resulted in eight deaths, I don't think holding them accountable is inappropriate." However, according to legal experts, Garrigan misstates the law. Under the Texas statute, which Palmer and Garrigan both said is rarely applied, Glass had an affirmative duty not to serve liquor to someone who she should have known was intoxicated. What actions Hight took after that are not relevant. Whether Hight murdered eight people or eight hundred in a drunken stupor should have no bearing on Glass's case. The issue is whether Glass served an insane or intoxicated person. "It comes down to whether a reasonable person in the same situation as Glass would have known Hight was intoxicated," says Kenneth Williams, a criminal law professor at University of Texas Law. The answer is a question of fact that ends with the passing of alcohol from the bartender to the bar patron. There's always the danger of bad cases making bad law. This case certainly raises the concern, according to George Washington University Law School professor Jonathan Turley, and because the shooter was killed, there's a temptation to place responsibility on someone among the living. "It's easy to take a horrific criminal act and associate it with an earlier crime," like overserving alcohol, he said. "Glass may have had reason to know he was intoxicated; however, the charges seem to be an outgrowth of the homicide as opposed to the overserving of alcohol violation." Tuesday's charges could be interpreted as an eleventh-hour effort by the Plano police department to hold someone accountable, or a sign that criminal law is trending in the direction of criminal affirmative duties. It's important to understand where the line of criminality is set by society, Turley said, because these cases blur them in a potentially dangerous way. Some of the facts alleged that Glass had reason to suspect Hight was going to do something criminal, though he never said it explicitly. Still, there was no legal requirement she call the police. No law required Glass to reach out to the owner of the bar or to follow someone she thought would be a danger to others. But, her attorney says, Glass did. "As bartender did she have an affirmative duty to act or affirmative duty to intervene? - likely no, but like the old saying goes 'see something, say something' - that is precisely what Lindsey did," her attorney, Palmer, said in an email, calling her decision to follow Hight to the party an "act of heroism" that saved lives. (Bloomberg) -- The Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr., the presidents eldest son, to answer additional questions about his earlier testimony for the panels bipartisan Russia probe, according to a person familiar with the matter. The committee wants him to respond to testimony by Donald Trumps former fixer, Michael Cohen, on the Trump Tower Moscow project, the person said. Energy corridor: President Trump to talk exports during visit located hours east of Houston The subpoena marks the first known instance of a Republican-led congressional committee compelling testimony from one of Trumps children, potentially setting up a battle between a fiercely protective father and his overseers in Congress. The move surfaced a day after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said the Russia probe was case closed with the release of Special Counsel Robert Muellers report. But Democrats have been pushing to get more information on his investigation, saying many questions remain unanswered. The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt over his refusal to hand over the full unredacted version of Muellers report. The Senate Intelligence Committee said it doesnt discuss its interactions with witnesses, but that it has the authority to recall witnesses as needed. Under Chairman Richard Burr of North Carolina, the Senate Intelligence panel has been conducting the only bipartisan probe, and one thats lasted even longer than Muellers. Hes previously said that it had yet to find any collusion between Trumps 2016 campaign and Russian operatives, although senators acknowledged Mueller had access to witnesses and evidence that they did not. The proposed tower in Moscow was the brainchild of Cohen and Felix Sater, a former Trump associate who chased property deals for the future president. The pair pursued a potential tower in Moscow well into the 2016 presidential campaign -- Cohen has said he regularly briefed members of the Trump family of their progress -- but nothing came of it. The abandoned tower project has become a flashpoint in Democrats struggle to understand Trumps involvement with Russian-linked entities in the wake of the Russian governments attempt to tilt the 2016 election in Trumps favor. Trump has denied having business interests in Russia and defended his right to pursue business in the country. --With assistance from Steven T. Dennis. To contact the reporters on this story: Shannon Pettypiece in Washington at spettypiece@bloomberg.net;Shahien Nasiripour in New York at snasiripour1@bloomberg.net To contact the editor responsible for this story: Kevin Whitelaw at kwhitelaw@bloomberg.net 2019 Bloomberg L.P. UPDATE: Charles Ogando was a 32-year-old white man who died May 7 from a gunshot wound at 11410 Leitrim Way, Houston. ORIGINAL STORY: Houston police are investigating the fatal shooting of a 31-year-old man around the South Acres community. Police said the owner of a vacant residence at 11410 Leitrim Way, which is located northeast of Texas 288 and the Sam Houston Tollway, was preparing to sell the property. The owner went there Tuesday afternoon and found the back door had been forced open and the deceased victim inside, police said. Identification of the victim was pending verification by the medical examiner's office. Police did not have any suspects or motive in the killing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Houston police at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS. The body was found in the bushes along a dirt road in a rural town in Moldova on the morning of Oct. 1, 2011, and within a matter of hours, Irina Vorotinov's phone was ringing halfway across the world. From her home in Maple Grove, Minnesota, she shared the dreadful news with her two grown sons: The body belonged to their father, Igor Vorotinov. The circumstances were strange. The well-dressed dead man didn't appear to be beaten or shot, at least as far as the one investigating police officer could tell, but his body was already decomposing. Enlisting the help of his son, the police officer promptly brought the body to a state morgue, an old dilapidated building without refrigeration or air conditioning, whose single green door was reachable only by a dirt path. There, the medical examiner determined that the man found in the bushes had died of a heart attack. He was carrying Igor Vorotinov's passport, among other identifying documents. Irina Vorotinov hopped on a plane. She arrived in the village of Cojusna and, accompanied by a U.S. Embassy representative, traveled to the morgue to confirm that the dead man really was Igor Vorotinov, her ex-husband. She told authorities it was, electing to cremate his remains in Ukraine before returning home with the ashes in an urn. On Nov. 4, 2011, she arranged his funeral at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis, attended "widely" by the local Russian community who knew Igor well, according to federal prosecutors. But before long, Igor's oldest son, Alkon, was about to discover a $2 million secret. On a trip to Moldova in June 2012, while visiting a family friend at a party one night, Alkon found it: his father - alive. To Alkon and his brother's horror and relief, the body found in the bushes didn't belong to Igor. Nor did the ashes in the urn. Instead, federal prosecutors said, their father was living large and under a fake name in Moldova and Ukraine, reaping the fruits of a $2 million life insurance policy that his ex-wife collected despite knowing Igor was alive the whole time. Now, after authorities spent years searching for the undead Igor Vorotinov, the 54-year-old was convicted of mail fraud Friday after pleading guilty in federal court in Minnesota. Irina, 52, had already pleaded guilty in 2016 and was sentenced to 37 months in prison for staging her husband's funeral and duping the insurance company into paying her the $2 million life insurance policy, which prosecutors said she intended to split with her ex-husband. Their eldest son, Alkon, 29, pleaded guilty in 2015 to failing to report his parents' fraudulent scheme to authorities, a felony, and was sentenced to three years of probation. His defense attorney said he was the victim of his parents' deceit - but prosecutors allege Alkon's coverup was all part of the family affair. "The manner of this crime's execution was quite sophisticated," federal prosecutors wrote in court documents. "We now know that there really was a body found in a field in Moldova. The government executed a search warrant on the urn at Lakewood Cemetery, and it really contained human remains. Somehow, Moldovan officials . . . were paid to write false reports to make it appear that Igor had actually died. This offense required deft coordination and execution." Irina submitted the insurance claim to Mutual of Omaha three days after Igor's "sham funeral," prosecutors said. The insurance company contracted with Worldwide Investigations to confirm that Igor was truly dead in Moldova. But prosecutors say the conspiracy was so entrenched that many of the people the insurance company interviewed, including the police officer and medical examiner, were in on it. The police and the morgue employees all claimed no one took pictures of the body because no one had a camera. In March 2012, Irina received more than $2 million, and began wiring it all over the world - Switzerland, Hungary, Moldova. Her son, Alkon, participated in some of the transactions. But his defense attorney, Matthew Mankey, claims he had no idea his father was alive until seeing him with his own eyes. Prosecutors haven't challenged this claim. The June 2012 discovery, Mankey said in court documents, startled him. He was "experiencing an emotional roller coaster with his father's supposed death and resurrection," Mankey wrote. "He actually had to experience a funeral/memorial service for his father only to later find out that his father was alive. What kind of people put their own children through that kind of emotional turmoil?" Alkon continued making the trips to Moldova to visit his father, telling prosecutors that at one point his mother joined him there for a New Year's celebration at the end of 2012. But eventually the repeated vacations would catch the attention of investigators. On June 18, 2013, the FBI received an anonymous tip from someone in Moldova claiming that Igor Vorotinov was alive, living under the fake name "Nikolay Patoka" in Ukraine or Moldova. The next time Alkon and his Moldovan fiancee returned to the United States from Moldova, in November 2013, U.S. Customs and Border Protection detained the couple and confiscated their belongings. On Alkon's laptop, an FBI agent testified in court in 2015 that they found several curious photographs of the supposedly dead Igor: There he was in April 2013, posing with Alkon's fiancee's young daughter in a park. There he was in May 2013, playing with the little girl at a swimming pool - and "very much alive," the agent testified. Irina and Alkon were arrested in 2015 while Igor remained in Moldova. As federal authorities investigated, Alkon provided incriminating information against his parents, in part resulting in a more favorable plea agreement - but the feds said in sentencing documents that he almost blew it. At the last minute, Alkon met with prosecutors and spontaneously put his father on the phone, who spoke from Moldova. Igor then concocted an elaborate story about a kidnapping that prosecutors called "palpably ridiculous," designed to make Irina appear innocent. Igor claimed that his friends in Moldova faked his death without even his knowledge, then kidnapped him as part of a conspiracy to steal all the life insurance money. Igor and Alkon claimed the kidnappers demanded ransom money from Alkon, that the entire fraudulent scheme was the kidnappers' plan, and that Irina had nothing to do with it. "What he did here, by participating in fabricating this ridiculous story to make it look like Igor was kidnapped, and his death staged by his kidnappers, without Irina's knowledge, was so stupid that it actually appears to have led to her plea of guilty rather than obstruct a path to her conviction," prosecutors wrote. Igor was arrested in Moldova last November on the mail fraud charges and extradited to the United States. In his plea agreement filed Friday, prosecutors still do not reveal how exactly Igor or others managed to find a dead body on which to plant his identifying documents. He is expected to be sentenced in July, and prosecutors are seeking 41 months in prison. Defense attorneys for Irina and Alkon say that they have been made to suffer for the sins of the father, reaping nothing from the scheme and living in poverty while for years Igor lived comfortably with his girlfriend in Transnistria, an unrecognized independent state within Moldova. In November 2011, the same month Irina filed the fraudulent insurance claim, her defense attorney says her breast cancer returned after a long remission. She underwent a double mastectomy and chemotherapy before losing her home to foreclosure while deep in medical bills, the defense attorney claimed. Just before she was sentenced to prison in 2017, she was living in subsidized housing "as a destitute felon." Alkon, his attorney wrote in pre-sentencing filings, attempted suicide at one point. And because of his mother's illness and inability to work, Mankey said, the son will likely be made to repay much of the $2 million to Mutual of Omaha as part of restitution. "He will likely be paying off Mutual of Omaha his entire life," Mankey wrote. As high school seniors throughout the area anticipate graduation, some La Porte High School students are preparing to walk across two stages one for their high school diploma and another for their college associates degree. The Accelerated College Education program, which began in La Porte ISD in 2015 in conjunction with San Jacinto Community College, allows students beginning in the 11th grade to complete enough college credits to get the associates degree when they finish high school, said Linda Wadleigh, the school districts deputy superintendent over curriculum and instruction. To be eligible, students need to be in a position to take Algebra 2 their sophomore year and pass with at least an 80, and they have to live inside the districts boundaries. Other factors are considered as well, such as attendance and academic background, and each student is evaluated to determine whether administrators believe that individual can handle a college course load while attending high school. The students are required to adhere to San Jacs standards for admission, such as GPA, applications and standardized tests such as the SAT or the ACT. These are genuine college courses held at San Jac, La Porte High School Principal Carlin Grammer said. There isnt any hand holding there. The students who participate in this course spend part of their day at San Jac and the other part of their day at the high school, and the college professors treat them like college students; so we want to make sure the kids we pick for the program are capable of managing the course work. We dont want to push anyone into this before theyre ready. Grammer and Wadleigh both stressed the importance of getting kids on track to take Algebra 2 early in their school careers if the ACE program is something parents think their kids might want to consider. Wadleigh said San Jac has worked with other state colleges to ensure that courses taken under the ACE program will transfer to those institutions as usable credits. The last thing we, or San Jac, would want is for one of our kids to take two years of college courses and then not have them be able to transfer those courses to, say, (Texas A&M) or University of Texas, she said. So, San Jac has worked hard to very carefully evaluate the curriculum to make sure the credits will transfer over. There might be a very few instances where a credit will have to transfer in as an elective, but what weve seen is overwhelmingly that these courses work at the other state schools in Texas. Students are able to earn a general associate degree and associate degrees in arts, business, science, life science and mathematics. La Porte ISD pays all tuition, fees and book costs for students to attend. In 2017, the first year students graduated from the program, 28 students graduated with associate degrees. In 2019, 38 students will graduate through the program, and 61 are on track to graduate with associates degrees from the ACE program by 2020. Its basically two years of free education, Grammer said. A student gets to walk out of here as a senior in high school and a junior in college, which is great. We want to try to support them in any way that we can, and were here throughout the whole process; we even have college counselors available at the high school for when they need assistance. Braeden and Blake Christen are twins at La Porte High School who are in the ACE program, from which they plan to graduate in 2020. If you can keep up with all of your grades and youve been doing really well in school, theres no reason not to do this, Blake Christen said. I can see no downside to it. Im getting my associate of science because eventually Id like to get a degree in biomedical engineering with a minor in biomechanics, and basically, I was able to get my basics, two years of college, for free. Braeden Christen recommends that students wanting to enroll in the ACE program take control of their schedule. You have to manage your time right, he said. You have to get into good study habits because they dont hold your hand at the college. If something is due, its due. I have to make a calendar of all of my assignments and work on them a little bit throughout the week. Sure, maybe you could do it all on Sunday, but thats not the best way to approach it. The twins mother, Cherie Christen, said that apart from lifting the financial burden of two years (times two) of college, she appreciates the way La Porte ISD handles the program. Not only do they pay for everything, they also provide bus transportation to and from the college if the child doesnt have a car or a ride, she said. And not only that, but your kids dont miss out on the high school experience. They can still play varsity sports, theyre still at the high school for half of the day, they still have all of their friends there they just come out of high school a little bit ahead on college. Visitors come to Mason, Texas, for two reasons, longtime resident Nonie Stringer said. One is to see Fort Mason, which played an important role in the settlement of the area about a decade before the Civil War, according to the Texas State Historical Commission. The other reason, she said, is to tour the Seaquist House, a Victorian mansion built in 1887 that evolved into a historic attraction in the Texas Hill Country. The home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it previously made a list of the most endangered places in Texas. "Vacant and vulnerable, water, vagrants and mother nature threaten the long-term stability of this important Texas house," the nonprofit Preservation Texas wrote in 2014. FINDING HISTORY: 22 historic sites in Texas that will fill you with Lone Star pride The nonprofit has since declared the home "saved" as the Seaquist House Foundation purchased the home and started the restoration process. Stringer, the current president of the foundation, said the group's goal is to eventually host community events in the space. Additional outdoor venues are expected to be built by the end of the summer. "We want to get the house back to its original beauty as much as we can," Stringer said, adding, "I've got granddaughters that might want to get married there some day." A wedding venue is just one possible use for the property, said tour director Janell Appleby. She said once the restoration process is complete, the home could be used for events like art shows and small musicals. It could also be used for showers and general meetings, she said. Appleby noted that the website's donate feature doesn't work, but people can still send donations to the Seaquist House Foundation at P.O. Box 1496, Mason, Texas, 76856. She said the website does not include updated event dates, but you can still read more about the families who owned it seaquist.org. 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 | NEWS WHEN YOU NEED IT: Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message | Sign up for breaking news alerts delivered to your email here. The rain contributed to several wrecks in the Houston area overnight, including a collision in Houston's Timbergrove community that involved a Houston Police Department officer. No one was injured in the wreck, authorities told Metro Video. Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales announced Tuesday that he would seek the death penalty in the case of a man accused of killing a San Antonio Police detective in 2016. Otis Tyrone McKane, 33, is currently awaiting trial on one count of capital murder of a police officer, accused of shooting Detective Benjamin Marconi on Nov. 20, 2016. The punishment for the charge, if convicted, can be either death by lethal injection or life in prison without parole. In a statement released Tuesday evening, District Attorney Joe Gonzales said the decision did not come lightly. RELATED: Tip leads police to mom suspected of kidnapping S.A. girl When I ran for district attorney in 2018, I promised the citizens of Bexar County that I would seek the death penalty only in the worst of the worst cases, he said in the statement. The facts of this case meet that standard. Marconi, 50, was working overtime on patrol and had pulled over a motorist in front of Public Safety Headquarters around 11:45 a.m. on a Sunday. He was sitting inside the squad car when a man approached and shot him twice in the head. McKane was spotted on security camera video at the headquarters on the day of the shooting. The next day, he was spotted on video entering the Bexar County Courthouse to get married. Authorities apprehended McKane about 28 hours after the slaying. He claimed he was upset about a child custody battle and that he lashed out by killing the 20-year SAPD veteran, according to previous reports. The district attorney said that he and the capital crimes committee elected to seek the death penalty after months of reviewing evidence in the case. RELATED: Teen accused of sexually assaulting girl at North Side home Prosecutors also met with Marconis family and considered their wishes, he said. Gonzales announcement is similar to that made by former District Attorney Nico LaHood in January 2018, but he was voted out of office in November. This decision was made after much debate about the options available to me and I believe that the cold and calculating nature of the defendant's conduct in this case deserves the death penalty, Gonzales said. Jacob Beltran is a reporter covering San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jbeltran@express-news.net | Twitter: @JBfromSA A teenager was delivered to police after relatives interrupted his alleged sexual assault of a 6-year-old girl Sunday at a North Side home. Angel Hinojosa, 17, was charged with super-aggravated sexual assault of a child Monday. His bail was set at $75,000. According to his arrest warrant affidavit, Hinojosa allegedly invited the girl into a bedroom to play at about 9 p.m. He then locked the door, removed her clothes and sexually assaulted her, investigators said. FIND OUT FIRST: Get San Antonio breaking news directly to your inbox Another relative was searching for the girl and knocked on the door as she was being assaulted, according to the affidavit. Hinojosa allegedly placed an index finger on his lips, signaling her to be quiet, investigators said. Moments later, Hinojosa opened the door and said that the girl must have locked it when she went in to play. The relative noticed that the girl's clothing was crooked and her appearance was "disheveled," the affidavit states. RELATED: Records: 44 arrested on felony DWI charges in Bexar County in April 2019 When relatives questioned the girl, she told them what occurred and they took Hinojosa to police, who arrested him. Investigators accused Hinojosa of abusing the girl in a similar manner for some time before Sundays incident. Jacob Beltran is a reporter covering San Antonio and Bexar County. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jbeltran@express-news.net | Twitter: @JBfromSA A 24-year-old inmate is facing additional charges after he allegedly attempted to escape his jail cell by climbing into the ceiling, according to Bexar County officials. Mathew Fields was initially booked into jail Tuesday on a charge of criminal trespass. He now faces additional charges of escape and criminal mischief. He faces an additional charge of assault on a public servant for a separate incident in which he bit a Bexar County deputy. A man was arrested Thursday after he allegedly stabbed and robbed a woman on the North Side, police said. The victim, a woman in her 20s, told investigators she was at a house near San Angelo and Blanco Road at about 12:40 a.m. when she was stabbed and robbed. The woman also claimed a group of men attempted to sexually assault her during the attack. As the mayors race heads into a runoff, voters should notice the financial clouds looming over the city of San Antonio this election. That storm is coming regardless of the outcome between Mayor Ron Nirenberg and District 6 City Councilman Greg Brockhouse, who has yet to adequately answer questions about two alleged incidents of domestic violence and the unexplained disappearance of a 2009 police report. But the outcome of this race could have tremendous financial repercussions for the city given Brockhouses fervent support from the public safety unions, particularly the fire union, which has declared Brockhouse our own guy and is seeking a new contract. The biggest financial cloud on the horizon is a significant drop in property tax revenue for the city. State lawmakers are almost certain to cap annual property tax growth for cities and urban counties at 3.5 percent. The present cap is 8 percent. This change will provide some modest relief for homeowners, maybe a few dollars a month, but for the city, it will mean millions less for police, fire, parks and streets. For example, a 3.5 percent cap would have meant about $51 million less in revenue in 2019, according to city projections. The next cloud can be seen in legislation that would remove utility fees when telecommunications companies open up city streets. The city of San Antonio has estimated a loss of about $8 million in revenue from this legislation and there is no evidence these savings will be passed on to consumers. Together, these dynamics would put tremendous downward pressure on City Hall, and thats where the mayors race really matters. At a time when city revenues will almost certainly be tightening property tax caps are happening Nirenberg has pledged to contain public safety expenses. But Brockhouse is the candidate of choice for the public safety unions, and the lack of a fire contract is another cloud on the horizon. Prior to his election to City Council two years ago, Brockhouse did significant consulting work for the San Antonio Police Officers Association and San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association. And the unions have, in turn, gone to bat for Brockhouse in his bid for mayor. Off-duty firefighters worked polls during the general election, and the police union flooded voters mailboxes on behalf of Brockhouse. In fire union President Chris Steeles own words, the goal is to set it up to where May of 2019, we can put our own guy in the mayors office, which would be Greg Brockhouse. The goal for the fire union has always been to land a lucrative new contract. Thats the play. Bear in mind, the police union already agreed to a lucrative contract in 2016. The deal included a 3 percent lump sum bonus, a wage increase of 14 percent over four years, a shift in the evergreen clause from 10 years to eight years, and some necessary cost shifts on health care that will save taxpayers an estimated $87.5 million over the span of the contract. But Steele and company want something better. They want to manage their own health insurance at significant additional cost. And again, Brockhouse is their guy. A practical question, then, is how will Brockhouse deliver on a better contract for the fire union amid an obvious tightening of revenue? And what would that mean for the police contract? Yet another practical question is just what would Brockhouse be willing to cut if that lucrative fire union contract happens? Its not possible to take in less revenue, or even less-than expected revenue, but then spend more on public safety and also deliver more for neighborhoods. Something has to give, and not just the citys bond rating. Yet Brockhouse has championed a city property tax cut. Its all magical thinking. But magic wont make those storm clouds looming over the city disappear. If anything, it will make the wind and the rain stronger whenever it arrives. There are many issues in this campaign those police reports and what happened to remove one of them from public records, as well as that Chick-fil-A vote by council but perhaps none is as important as a practical matter of city governance as public safety spending amid a tightening budget. Keep that in mind in the runoff election. Segments of the business community object to the citys climate action plan, apparently leery that mandates for environmentally friendly but expensive actions will emerge. The new Credit Human building next to the Pearl complex is a model for how the business community can do its own heavy lifting. Voluntarily. As described by Express-News environmental writer Josh Baugh, the Credit Human building will employ geothermal heating and cooling, an array of solar panels, rainwater and condensate collection, and efficient building design. The result will be significantly reduced energy and water costs for the firm. How much in reduced cost? Human First estimates that it will get 97 percent of its water nonpotable from its own water and condensate collections. The 2,912 solar panels used are expected to meet 40 percent to 70 percent of the credit unions power needs. Geothermal power will garner all of Credit Humans heating needs and 40 percent of its cooling needs. And efficient building design windows that reflect 75 percent of the suns heat will help with those cooling-cost reductions. In addition, the building will use energy-efficient fixtures and LED lighting. Credit Human CEO Steven Hennigan a former member of the CPS Energy board said the company went in knowing the measures were initially more expensive, but the board warmed to the long-term financial savings. And this is key. Much of the pushback to the citys climate plan has been about missing specifics about additional costs to businesses. The Credit Human plan envisions cost savings that make sense in the long run. We would add that there is another factor that should be built into any calculation one that Credit Human apparently has. What is the cost to everyone of cities and a planet wracked by the catastrophes that follow severe climate change? We have had issues and still do with the tax incentives the city granted Credit Human and others for this project next to the Pearl. But at least this is a project done with climate change and the environment foremost in mind. Thank you, Credit Human. /Associated Press No matter how you feel about the death penalty, there seems to be some unanimity around this: Defendants with intellectual disabilities dont belong on death row in Texas or any other state. In fact, the U.S. Supreme Court settled that debate, determining in 2002 that executing people with intellectual disabilities was a violation of the Eighth Amendment ban on cruel and unusual punishment. The court gave states discretion on how to determine if a defendant has intellectual disabilities, but Texas failed to establish an acceptable process. THIRTEEN Zimbabweans, including four children, died and 36 others were injured when a Marsmery bus they were travelling in overturned just outside Makhado town in South Africas Limpopo province. The accident occurred on Monday at about 5PM along the N1 highway which is one of the major roads which links South Africa and the rest of the Southern Africa Development Community. It was not immediately clear where the Zimbabweans were headed to or were travelling from but Marsmery is a Zimbabwean bus company. Emergency services ER24 spokesperson Mr Russel Meiring confirmed the accident to the South African media. ER24 paramedics, along with several other services, arrived on the scene to find the bus lying on its roof off the roadway. Numerous patients were found lying around the scene, he said. Mr Meiring said 36 people were treated on the scene and their injuries ranged from minor to critical. He said several people died on the scene and others succumbed to their injuries at nearby hospitals. Once treated, other patients were transported to nearby hospitals for further care. Limpopo Member of the Executive Committee (MEC) responsible for Transport and Community Safety Makoma Makhurupetje said the exact cause of the accident is not yet known but reckless driving could be a possible cause. I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of 13 Zimbabwean nationals who died late yesterday afternoon when the driver of the bus they were travelling in lost control and overturned on the N1 north, near the Ingwe Hotel in Makhado. I also wish a speedy recovery to others who were injured during the crash, she said. We are deeply concerned about accidents involving buses as they lead to more loss of lives compared to ordinary motor vehicles. The driver and vehicle fitness of long distance cross border buses is also a matter of deep concern to us as this is the third time now that we are losing lives because of long distance buses. Ms Makhurupetje said it was high time law enforcement officers stepped up their routine checks on long distance buses to avoid similar accidents. Limpopo Department of Transport spokesperson Mrs Matome Moremi-Taueatsoala said they will be working with the Zimbabwean authorities to identify and repatriate the bodies. The Road Accident Fund (RAF) and the Department of Health will henceforth be working with the Zimbabwe Consulate to deal with the issue of identification of bodies. In addition, RAF will handle the repatriation cost, she said. The N1 highway has become a death trap as many Zimbabweans are losing their lives on that road. The latest accident comes a few months after nine Zimbabweans were killed in a road accident in Polokwane when a bus they were travelling in overturned. Chronicle Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News THE Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba and two other officials have flown to South Africa to observe that countrys elections today. South Africa holds its national elections today with a record 48 political parties contesting in the polls. In an interview yesterday, Zec commissioner Dr Qhubani Moyo said the electoral commissions officials would not just observe the elections but also learn how to improve the countrys electoral systems. Zec dispatched its chairperson Justice Chigumba, the director voter education (Rejoyce Sibanda) and its acting Chief Elections Officer (Utoile Silaigwana) to observe South Africas elections. This is also a follow up to the learning visit during which Zec had also dispatched its chairperson, commissioner (Qhubani) Moyo and its CEO and also members of political parties that are represented in Parliament to go and understand the electoral processes in South Africa as a neighbour and a member of Sadc. So its a follow up to go and have a practical understanding of what is going on there, said Dr Moyo. He said while the country is not in election season, Zec is using this period to prepare for the next general elections in 2023. Dr Moyo said apart from the South African elections, the electoral body would be sending teams to various countries that are in election season where it has been invited. Zec is using this period to try and understand how elections are working in other jurisdictions. For instance, Zec is deploying Commissioner (Dr Ngoni) Kundidzora to observe elections in Malawi which are happening in the next two weeks. Zec has also been invited to go and learn and observe elections in Australia which are happening soon. Zec is dispatching Commissioner Dr (Qhubani) Moyo tomorrow (today) to go and learn experiences in India where that country is also having elections. So its a hectic programme for Zec. We want to get a wider understanding and experiences and see how we can improve our own electoral processes, said Dr Moyo. Meanwhile, an 11-member team sent by President Mnangagwa to also observe the South African elections has said the environment in the neighbouring country is peaceful and calm. The team is led by Zanu-PF secretary for finance Cde Patrick Chinamasa and includes party spokesperson Cde Simon Khaya Moyo, former Senate President Cde Edna Madzongwe, Zanu-PF deputy secretary for youth affairs Cde Lewis Matutu and secretary for business liaison Cde Sithembiso Nyoni. Other members of the delegation are Cdes Amon Murwira, Mike Madiro, Monica Mavhunga, Fortune Chasi, Mail Nkomo and Caroline Tsitsi Mugabe. We are monitoring the campaign process as we go to the elections, the environment and the elections themselves. On Sunday we attended the ANCs final Siyanqoba rally and from our observation, victory is certain for the revolutionary party, Zanu-PF secretary for information and publicity Cde Khaya Moyo told The Chronicle from Johannesburg. ANC supporters came out in their numbers to firmly stand behind the ruling party. More than 70 000 members packed into Ellis Park Stadium and the party could be heading for a victory and the rally was a huge success sending a clear message of dominance. The environment is very peaceful and calm. Cde Matutu said he is pleased by youth participation in the coming polls as more young people graced the star rally. The ANC youth league has done a lot of mobilisation for the party and theyre in control of their structures from top to bottom. Having more youths taking charge of choosing leaders shows that they appreciate that they are the vanguard of the party and are required to protect the revolution through active participation, he said. Chronicle Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News RADIO and television personality MisRed is turning 30 today. She enters the dirty 30s with a clear goal to become a media mogul. Even though the ZiFM Stereo drive time radio host is one of the most thriving media personalities in Zimbabwe, she says she is still far from reaching her intended goal of becoming a huge media mogul. In an exclusive interview, MisRed (real name Samantha Mussa) said: My wish for my next chapter is that I realise my goal which is to become a media mogul. I really believe now is the time for Africa and I want to include my voice in the African Narrative. This year, Ill be introducing fully, my media company which will amplify my next chapter with regards to where I want to go. Im a very ambitious person and I want to be part of the Zimbabwean story being told accurately. The Zimbabwean media is interesting in that its still emerging so there are numerous gaps for everyone to fit into. In the next five years, MisRed, a mother of two beautiful girls, said she does not see herself doing radio full time. I dont see myself doing daytime radio in the future. Maybe Ill do other shows outside prime time because I love the medium so much. Life is a cycle and theres still so much more to be done, not just in radio, but all over the media space, she explained. On her 30th birthday, MisRed, who hosted this years edition of the National Arts Merit Awards, said she feels she is behind on a lot of goals she wants to achieve in life. As I turn 30, I think Im behind on a lot of goals, but Im thankful for all the doors that have been opened and opportunities that have been put before me to thrive in my career! I take nothing for granted because I know it can only be a higher power that has gotten me to this stage. Turning to her children, MisRed said it was disheartening that they have to pay for her sins. As a single mother, it breaks my heart that my children take the biggest sacrifice for my being MisRed. Ive made so many mistakes, lost friends in the process and gone through depression, but like any other human being, Im a work in progress. In her career, MisRed has been a victim of cyber bullying and body shaming. She said she has since learnt to overcome these challenges. Its difficult to be honest, but Ive learnt to take everything with a pinch of salt and drinking champagne in the process so I dont go crazy. You also have to be very respectful in your responses online and give love when hate is thrown at you. It has not been all gloomy as she has, in the process, touched many lives, especially those of the girl child. At the just ended ZITF in Bulawayo, some females were captured crying upon seeing MisRed. Asked why they were crying, she said: It happens often but its really because we share pain and love as the Rednation (fans of MisRed). Its extremely humbling that I have such a huge effect and touch lives. Interestingly, MisRed said many people do not perceive her as a believer but she is a church girl who finds solace in God. Im a very prayerful person contrary to public perception. I find solace in God and I call myself an explicit Jesus Girl. MisRed has a greater calling beyond herself and that reminder keeps me going. I want to be an influence on my generation and leave a legacy for my children. This is what motivates everything I do, she said. This year, MisRed showed her other talent when she featured in Jah Prayzahs Kunerima music video. She said being featured in a video which has been viewed over a million times was one of the biggest highlights of her career. Im grateful to Jah Prayzah and his team for including me in their vision. More than anything, it was a lot of fun. Its sort of crazy now because sometimes I walk into places and they start playing Kunerima. I just laugh but its interesting, said MisRed. Chronicle Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News In a ruling which is likely to cause shockwaves in the political circles, particularly, the opposition circles, the High Court has nullified Nelson Chamisas appointment as the leader of the opposition MDC party. The latest ruling by the High Court also nullified the appointment of Nelson Chamisa and Elias Mudzuri as Vice Presidents. The appointments were made by the late founding leader Morgan Richard Tsvangirai in 2014. The new ruling totally disregards another High Court ruling made in 2017 which ruled that the structures which appointed Chamisa were legitimate. The new ruling ordered the MDC to hold an extraordinary congress within a month using 2014 structures in which Thokozani Khupe was the only Vice President of the party, meaning that at the moment, according to the latest ruling at least, Khupe is the legitimate leader of the opposition. Below is part of the High Court ruling by Justice Mushore, The appointment of 2nd and 3rd Respondents as Deputy Presidents of the Movement of Democratic Change Party were unconstitutional and therefore null and void. The appointment of 2nd Respondent as Acting President and President of the Movement for Democratic Change party was unconstitutional and therefore null and void. All appointments and or/reassignments and all actions of the 2nd Respondents in his purported capacities as Deputy/Acting or incumbent President were unconstitutional, and therefore null and void. The 1st respondent be and is hereby ordered to hold an Extra-Ordinary Congress after the elapse of at least one month after the date of this order. The Respondents are ordered to pay the applicants costs of suit, jointly and severally, the one paying the other to be absolved. Ironically, the ruling comes a few days after a video surfaced in which President Emmerson Mnangagwa infamously declared that Zanu-PF controlled every single entity within the country. Watch video below https://twitter.com/daddyhope/status/1125697689876926464 More details to follow Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News An Air Zimbabwe flight set to depart the OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg for Harare yesterday at 18.55hrs departed five hours earlier, leaving hordes of passengers stranded. The struggling airline, running on a single Boeing 767-200 jet, has disappointed its passengers again. The national airline did not inform its passengers that it would depart at 13.50 hrs, nor did it explain the reasons for the sudden change of schedule. One of the passengers left stranded, former Harare West legislator Jessie F. Majome, was left fuming over the inconvenience. The return journey the flight set for 6.55pm (ticket bought 2 weeks back), but suddenly changed to 1.15pm, with no explanation. The plane then left at 1.50pm. Imagine the inconvenience? she fumed. Majome added that it takes a lot of craziness for one to fly the national airline given the amount of bungling it has shown of late. This is not the first time Air Zimbabwe has stunned its passengers by departing way too early without prior communication. In the first week of March this year, Air Zimbabwe passengers going for an 18:55 hrs flight from OR Tambo in Johannesburg to Harare were shocked when they got there and were told the plane left at 14:31 hrs. The passengers were left stranded as the national airliner did not notify them in advance to explain why the departure time had been changed. A few days later, the airline abandoned 15 passengers at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport who were supposed to go to Bulawayo. The passengers were supposed to fly from Johannesburg to Bulawayo at midday. However, Air Zimbabwe bunched these passengers with those flying to Harare on the evening flight and dropped them off at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport. ZOOMZimbabwe Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News One of Opposition MDCs founding member, David Coltart, has described todays High Court ruling as empty thunder and gave assurance that it will be repealed. The High Court today ruled that MDC leader Nelson Chamisa is an illegitimate president. The ruling said that Chamisa appointment to the position of vice president by Morgan Tsvangirai before the latters death was null and void. Said Coltart in a comment about the ruling: It will be appealed. This is what is called a brutum fulmen empty thunder, an ineffective order. By the time the appeal is heard a duly constituted Congress of the MDC will have been held and @nelsonchamisa elected. Pathetic interference with the due process of a party. https://twitter.com/DavidColtart/status/1126072234102132737 Imagine if Mugabe or the G40 had gone to Court to argue that Mnangagwa had been illegally appointed President of ZANU PF in December 2017 after the violent ouster of Mugabe. It is hard to imagine any #Zimbabwean Court being bold enough to rule as they have today against the MDC, Coltart fumed. https://twitter.com/DavidColtart/status/1126080630230540288 The farcical nature of life in #Zimbabwe. Next the High Court will be ruling that @nelsonchamisa is not a person. The regime truly fears him taking full and unfettered leadership of the #MDC, Coltart said. The farcical nature of life in #Zimbabwe. Next the High Court will be ruling that @nelsonchamisa is not a person. The regime truly fears him taking full and unfettered leadership of the #MDC . https://t.co/fmbk4sZFDn David Coltart (@DavidColtart) May 8, 2019 Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa, backed by his ruling Zanu PF party and close to 18 opposition political parties, is pressing ahead with political parties dialogue without the main opposition MDC and its leader Nelson Chamisa, who has insistently refused to join the process. Zanu PF and the other political parties, who include the MDC-T led by Thokozani Khupe, NCA led by Lovemore Madhuku and other leaders including Bryn Mteki, yesterday met at State House and agreed to officially launch the dialogue on May 17 at the HICC. The programme, although not yet finalised, will see the parties to the dialogue, now led by National Peace and Reconciliation Commission chairperson Justice Selo Nare and Zimbabwe Gender Commission chair Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe, setting the terms and reference of the talks. Cleric Patrick Mugadza, who is part of the talks, confirmed the launch, saying the committee will meet on Friday to finalise all the logistics of the launch. We will only be able to say the terms of reference of the talks after the launch on May 17, most likely at the HICC [Harare International Conference Centre]. We will meet soon after the launch and discuss the issues that will be tabled as part of the dialogue, he said. In a statement, the Information ministry said at the meeting, the parties also adopted a code of conduct. Today (yesterday), the political actors in the national dialogue met and adopted a code of conduct that will promote conditions that are conducive for dialogue built on political tolerance, mutual respect, consensus, information dissemination and commitment to the dialogue, the ministry said. Chamisa has insisted that for him to meet Mnangagwa for talks, there was need for an independent interlocutor mutually agreed on by the MDC and Zanu PF. His party has also insisted on discussing the legitimacy of Mnangagwas presidency, a condition Zanu PF has said it will not accept. NewsDay Breaking News via Email Loading... Related Zimbabwe Latest News The Meditation on Waterloo Bridge at XR Campfire Convention (MR: Video that gives a taste of the scene on Waterloo Bridge just before mass arrests on Easter Saturday, with coments by a few supporters. XR seem able to generate a remarkably nonviolent, even gentle, standing of ground. In the context of the relatively nonviolent UK policing, of course). Where Our New World Begins Harpers. I actually bought the print version to read this. Global Fossil Fuel Subsidies Remain Large: An Update Based on Country-Level Estimates (PDF) IMF Working Paper Will climate change destroy democracy? The Week The Useful Discomfort of Critical Climate Social Science Social Science Research Council. Jargon-heavy but useful examples. Lyft reports slowing growth and heavy loss in quarter FT As Uber gears up for IPO, many Indian drivers talk of shattered dreams Reuters Brexit EU Elections Explainer: A battle for the heart of Europe CGTN Venezuela The Great Gambia Heist OCCRP Syraqistan China India Indonesias Election: The Rise of Political Islam Asia Sentinel Indonesias elections in the periphery: a view from Maluku New Mandala. From April, still germane. RussiaGate Trump Transition 2020 Boeing Health Care Black Injustice Tipping Point Guillotine Watch Students who owe lunch money in Rhode Island will only get jelly sandwiches until debt is paid NBC Class Warfare How much can we afford to forget, if we train machines to remember? Aeon Antidote du jour (via): See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here The infamous HAMP program, which the Administration revised so many times on the fly as to give incompetent and mendacious mortgage servicers air cover for failing to modify mortgages, at least had a stealth purpose. As Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner said to the SIGTARPs Neil Barofsky, it was to foam the runway for banks by spreading out foreclosures over time. But that still doesnt excuse servicers for their favorite gimmick for not bothering with HAMP applications, which was to pretend theyd never received them. But its not clear what the thinking was behind the 2007 Student Loan Forgiveness Program, except to create better eyewash. The ostensible goal was to give student debt relief for borrowers who went into socially useful but not>well remunerated lines of work. But not only were the eligible employers (note employers, not job types) poorly specified as public service which includes some highly paid employees at not-for-profits, other elements of the program were also drafted badly. Throw in lousy servicers, revisions to an already confusing program, and conservative sabotage into the mix, and youve created conditions where many make what they think are the qualifying 120 payments, only to have their application for forgiveness nixed. Only 1% of 73,000 applicants have gotten relief. Admittedly, 25% of the rejections were due to missing information, which means some might eventually be approved. But as of June 30 last year, 29,000 applications had been reviewed and only 1% were approved, with 28% needing more information. Youd think by now that if a meaningful percentage of the then 28% with gaps had had them filled, the proportion being approved would be rising over time. The broad outlines of the abject failure of this scheme arent new but the Wall Street Journal provides a useful overview and update. The program, launched in 2007, created a series of conditions for eligibility. Per the Journal: To qualify for forgiveness, borrowers must work for a government entity or nonprofit, hold a certain type of loan, enroll in one of several specific repayment plans and make 120 full and on-time monthly payments, or 10 years worth. Falling short on almost any of these requirements can mean disqualification. The article describes a litany of problems. First, only students who had Federal student loans qualified, not ones with private Federally guaranteed loans. Servicers too often enrolled borrowers into forgiveness programs for which they did not qualify or gave incorrect payment amounts. And even though the Trump Administration has made its antipathy for the program evident by eliminating it in its budget announced in March, its not as if the Obama Administration did all that much to make it work. Again from the Journal: At that point, with the first borrowers not eligible for forgiveness for seven years, the Obama administration put off specific steps that would have helped the program run smoothly. Officials didnt advertise the program or establish a platform to guide borrowers through its requirements. They didnt draw up clear guidance on which employers should qualify as public-service organizationsnow a subject of litigation. A government investigation last year found that officials didnt even produce a guidebook for the servicing company they hired, Fed Loan, to implement the program. And measures designed to make borrowers whole for program screw-ups that did them harm have wound up being close to moribund: [Public librarian] Ms. [Bonnie] Svitavsky hit her first snag in 2013, when she submitted a form to ensure her employer qualified her for loan forgiveness. It did, but that step revealed another problem: For the prior 23 months, her servicer, like with so many other borrowers, had her on a plan known as extended repayment, which charges standard monthly payments over 25 years. Those payments were now all ineligible toward her payment count. The improper payment plan issue raised particular concern in Washington, where members of Congress, led by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.), in 2018 created a temporary fund of $700 million to reimburse borrowers who had mistakenly enrolled in ineligible repayment plans but otherwise qualified. The program has so far granted loan relief to 442 additional people. If you generously assume an average borrower put $10,000 into the extended repayment scheme, only $4 million of the $700 million set aside has been deployed. Mind you, this isnt even the complete litany of things that can or have gone wrong with this program. Readers have described how they were encourage to consolidate loans to help qualify for the program..only to find the new loan wasnt eligible and had higher interest charges. It is distressing to see the intensity of the hostility in the Wall Street Journal comments section to the idea giving a break to borrowers. Theres no acknowledgment that students could have had their employment prospects up ended by the crisis or been misled by their university about how realistic it would be for them to earn enough to repay their loans. A few readers did point out the escalating cost of higher education was the real problem, but the how could you be so stupid as to get advanced degrees and then become a librarian? viewpoint drown it out (never mind that a Harvard College colleague said the degree she got later in library science was the most useful education shed ever gotten; she parlayed that into a research job at Bain and later a position as head of white label research at one of the major international equity firms). I hope large scale debt forgiveness doesnt wind up falling into the Maine category of You cant get there from here. But the experience to date is not encouraging. The fact that so many hurdles were set up to make sure that only very deserving candidates could qualify illustrates how few better off individual are willing to consider that stagnant real incomes, rising housing, medical and education costs, and high job instability means that most people go from paycheck to paycheck and cant build up a savings buffer. They are one mishap away from needing to borrow to get by. If they arent lucky enough to be able to get the funds from family or friends, the bank supplied sources range from pricey (credit cards) to punitive (payday loans). And if you miss a payment due to a second mishap, its well nigh impossible to get off the treadmill of penalty rates. But as long as the well-off can convince themselves that overburdened borrowers were irresponsible, as opposed to unlucky, nothing much will change until pitchfork sales go way up. In these regions, when winter comes, ready or not, creatures big and small endure the coldest and most unforgiving landscapes on the planet. Thursdays from 8:30pm AEDT. Ships from nine NATO countries are taking part in live-fire air and missile defence drills off the coast of Scotland from Tuesday (7 May 2019). Exercise Formidable Shield will take place at the United Kingdoms Hebrides training range, in the Western Isles of Scotland and will run until 19 May. Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO will conduct the exercise on behalf of the US Navy. Formidable Shield shows how Allies are working together to protect NATO forces and populations from the real threat of ballistic missiles, said NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu. This is one of the worlds most sophisticated and complex air and missile defence exercises and a great example of how Allies are continuing to adapt to meet current and future security challenges. The exercise will see Allied ships detecting, tracking and defending against an array of anti-ship and ballistic missiles using NATO command and control procedures. Drills will include sharing real time tactical information, conducting joint mission planning, and engagement coordination. Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States will participate by sending ships and aircraft. Belgium and Germany will support the exercise with staff officers. A total of 13 ships, 10 aircraft, and about 3,300 personnel are involved. Maritime patrol aircraft and NATO AWACS surveillance aircraft will provide aerial over-watch and ensure that the airspace is clear. Formidable Shield will cover a huge area in the North Atlantic - from more than 1,000 km west of the Scottish Hebrides, and from the south of Ireland to the southern end of Iceland. The exercise follows NATOs decision in 2010 to step up the defence of European Allies from ballistic missile threats. NATO missile defence links Allied sensors and weapons together in a single system. Major components of NATO missile defence currently include U.S. Navy destroyers fitted with the Aegis missile defence system based in Rota, Spain; and a U.S.-operated land-based system in Romania known as Aegis Ashore. Other major components include an early warning radar in Turkey. NATO's air command in Ramstein, Germany is the responsible command. The Military Committee, NATOs highest Military Authority, will meet in Chiefs of Defence (CHODs) Session on 22 May 2019, at NATO Headquarters, Brussels, Belgium. Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, Chairman of the Military Committee, will preside over the sessions. The Allied Chiefs of Defence will meet for the second time in 2019 to discuss NATOs Deterrence and Defence Posture and the Enablement of SACEURs Area of Responsibility. They will also hold two sessions with their partner Chiefs of Defence - one with Ukraine and another with their Mediterranean Dialogue colleagues. The Chiefs of Defence will begin their day by meeting with the NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg in order to be informed of the political context and debate key strategic issues facing the Alliance. The second session of the day will allow the Chiefs of Defence to give further direction and guidance on the Alliances Deterrence and Defence. Session three will see the Chiefs of Defence discuss the different elements related the Enablement of SACEURs Area of Responsibility. The last two sessions of the day will focus on Ukraine and the Middle East and North Africa region. The session on Ukraine will allow the Chiefs of Defence to receive an update on the current security situation, recent developments and to discuss future cooperation. Meeting with their Mediterranean Dialogue counterparts, the Chiefs of Defence will discuss projecting stability initiatives and defence capacity building in the Middle East and North Africa region. The Chiefs of Defences advice and guidance will assist and further frame discussions ahead of the June Defence Ministerial The Military Committee is led by Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee. He will be supported in each session by General Tod Wolters (Supreme Allied Commander Europe, SACEUR) and General Andre Lanata (Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, SACT). The Military Committee meets twice a year at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, at the level of Chiefs of Defence to discuss NATO operations and missions and provide the North Atlantic Council with consensus-based military advice on how the Alliance can best meet global security challenges, and once a year they meet in an Allied member country. On a day-to-day basis, their work is carried out by permanent Military Representatives at NATO Headquarters in Brussels. Media Opportunities Wednesday 22 May 2019 07:15-07:45 Media Pool pick up in the Public Square 08:00-08:10 181st Military Committee in Chiefs of Defence Session Opening remarks by Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee 17:45-18:15 Joint Press Conference in the main Press Theatre with Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee (CMC), General Tod Wolters, Supreme Allied Commander, Europe (SACEUR) and General Andre Lanata, Supreme Allied Commander, Transformation (SACT) Imagery Photos of all opening sessions will be available online at www.nato.int/ims shortly after each meeting. Photos and video of the Opening Remarks and Joint Press Conference will be made available on the NATO website after the event. Broadcasters can also request the broadcast quality footage by contacting content@natomultimedia.tv. Accreditation Media representatives holding a valid 2019 NATO Media pass will have access as usual to the NATO HQ. Media representatives not in possession of a NATO Media pass and wishing to attend the media opportunities available are invited to contact the NATO IMS Public Affairs and Strategic Communications Office via email (ronaynecasimiro.lara@hq.nato.int) with a completed accreditation form no later than 12h00 on 14 May 2019 Media passes will not be mailed to applicants; they must be collected in person upon presentation of an ID card or passport and a valid national press pass (or accreditation letter from a recognized media organization). Media representatives will be given their accreditation at the Guard House South, NATO Headquarters, Boulevard Leopold III, Brussels, Belgium. Passes must be worn visibly at all times, and security personnel may ask to see another form of ID at any time. Media representatives are informed that security personnel will examine and may test equipment and personal effects carried onto the site and are advised to arrive with sufficient lead time to clear security checks. Social Media We will post the latest information and pictures from the Military Committee in Chiefs of Defence (MCCS) format on our official Twitter account: @NATO_PASCAD. Please use the hashtag #NATOCHoDs and #NATOMC when tweeting about the MCCS. Enquiries Points of contact for the Chairman of the Military Committee: General press arrangements: Mr. Damien Elvin, Public Affairs and Strategic Communications Advisor to the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee and NATO International Military Staff Tel: + 32 476 60 53 56 E-Mail: elvin.damien@hq.nato.int Ms. Elizabeth Steenson, Public Affairs Officer, NATO International Military Staff Tel: + 32 475 75 75 23 E-Mail: steenson.elizabeth@hq.nato.int For more background information about the NATO Military Committee click here (Natural News) You would think that the A-list artistic types in Hollywood and New York who make their living entertaining Americans would be more sensitive to overt censorship, but since most of the more notable stars are to the political Left of Karl Marx, they have no problems if the right people are getting censored. In fact, oftentimes they call for more people to be banned and censored from the public square especially social media simply because they disagree with their political, cultural, or social views and opinions. But actor Rob Schneider is an exception to the Hollywood Left insofar as his concerns that progressive Democrats and their like-minded allies in big tech are going too far when it comes to pushing for more Orwellian censorship. As noted by Breitbart News, Schneider launched a half-dozen tweets over the weekend in which he criticized the tech giants for ramping up their censorship campaign against far-Right figures. To that end, as NewsTarget reported, Facebook deplatformed/de-personed Alex Jones and his Infowars news site, former Infowars editor-at-large Paul Joseph Watson, conservative activist Laura Loomer, and others. Schneider began by retweeting a post from investigative reporter Sharyl Attkisson warning about the never-ending campaigns by Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and others to ban mostly conservative voices. She asked, When did we decide, as Americans, that its ok for government & 3d parties to censor/curate our info? That we cannot be trusted with unfiltered info? That we should only be able to find info that *they* tell us is true on matters that are opinion or in legitimate dispute? #SlipperySlope. https://twitter.com/SharylAttkisson/status/1124538724128305158 In addition, Schneider retweeted a message from writer Stephen Miller who observed that the Poynter Institute pulled a lengthy list of more than 500 news sites it claimed were disinfo and propaganda factories and unreliable, while apologizing for the weakness in the methodology behind gathering names for the list. (Related: Don Jr.: Conservatives face huge Big Tech censorship hurdle in 2020.) We are in a real world Orwellian nightmare of censorship. Be careful who you label and smear today. You will be the smeared tomorrow, Schneider wrote in response to Millers tweet. We are in a real world Orwellian nightmare of censorship. Be careful who you label and smear today. You will be the smeared tomorrow! https://t.co/3LNe7pkF1d Rob Schneider (@RobSchneider) May 4, 2019 The old Democratic Party no longer exists He followed up that tweet with his own thoughts on the subject, noting that the sudden atmosphere of blatant censorship by Left-wing progressive Democrats and their supporters is getting bizarre. Just bizarre. Progressive Democrats, who once stood for Civil Rights, Liberty, Free Speech now stand for censorship & remove parent rights, he wrote. In another post he wrote: Free Speech is ALL SPEECH! The UK and Australia dont have protected speech. And we are not protecting our 1st Amendment. #EternalVigilance. Free Speech is ALL SPEECH! The UK and Australia dont have protected speech. And we are not protecting our 1st Amendment.#EternalVigilance https://t.co/BlkWuN52PA Rob Schneider (@RobSchneider) May 5, 2019 There is no disputing the fact that by far, most of the voices and figures booted from major social media platforms in recent months have been conservative, conservative-leaning, and right-of-center. They include, most recently, Jones, Watson, Loomer, and actor James Woods, who is a very frequent (and hysterical) critic of Democrats and their policies. Its slow but it is happening: Long-time Democrats are beginning to realize that the party they have belonged to for decades in many cases is no longer the party they joined. Democrats today are Marxist or Marxist-lite, at a minimum. The party is attracting young socialists, not defenders of all rights. And when it comes to political opposition, todays Democratic Party prefers authoritarian measures like legislation, censorship, and bans to regulate and/or silence all who oppose them. Todays party cares more about civil rights for illegal aliens than for American citizens. Schneider is right; thats not the Democratic Party everyone is used to. And its not a party that stands for American freedom and liberty. Read more about Hollywoods take on tech giant censorship at CelebrityReputation.com and TechGiants.news. Sources include: Breitbart.com NewsTarget.com (Natural News) Leftist extremism continues to soar to new heights with the rise of Extinction Rebellion, an international group of far left activists who are now threatening to destroy the global economy to stop climate change. Over 1,100 demonstrators have been arrested in London after 10 days of protesting, obstructing traffic and blocking off access to key areas of the city. Across the pond, Extinction Rebellion protestors recently gathered at Universal Studios. Some even glued themselves to the famous globe sculpture. Apparently, they were trying to call upon Universal/NBC to take action on climate change. How motion picture and TV networks are supposed to stop climate change, of course, is never explained. Outrage activism seems to be really popular on the Left; at this point liberals are known for rioting in the streets with no actual plans for change. When activism becomes terrorism Antifa, Black Lives Matter, and now, Extinction Rebellion, have made a name for themselves by causing massive amounts of chaos for a single purpose: Uprooting society to make room for a new regime. In a recent interview, an Extinction Rebellion spokesperson declared, The only way weve realized the Government will listen to us is if we actually start to ruin the economy. And of course by listen, what these climate lunatics really mean is acquiesce to our demands. Extinction Rebellions list of demands not only neglects reality, it will open the door to total communism in the U.K. To put it simply, these activists are now attempting to resort to hostage tactics in order to usher in a New World Order. Making a list of wholly unrealistic demands that require total subservience without having a single idea of how to implement meaningful change is not activism. Its totalitarianism. Extinction Rebellion lauds itself as a group focused on calling attention to the sixth mass extinction and fighting the climate crisis. On their website, the group declares it has just three demands for the United Kingdom: Government must tell the truth by declaring a climate and ecological emergency and work with other organizations to promote this message. Government must take action to halt biodiversity loss and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2025. Government must create and be led by the decisions of a Citizens Assembly on climate and ecological justice. Is it rebellion or propaganda? First and foremost, climate science is far from settled. Natural News has reported on multiple instances of fraud within the field everything from sea level data to surface temperature recordings have been faked at some point to better align with the global warming narrative. This is well-documented. Secondly, even if greenhouse gasses were the sole cause of environmental damage (they are not), it would be virtually impossible to fully phase out fossil fuels and implement renewables in their place in just six years. At least, it would be impossible without radical change as a society. Thats where the Citizens Assembly comes in. As New Internationalist explains, achieving net-zero emissions by 2025 is possible with radical social changes. Getting to zero carbon would ultimately require massive cuts to personal freedom and a huge uptick in government regulation. As reported: Zero carbon would usher in a period of huge social change. Energy would be stringently rationed, dedicated to survival and essential activities; wed go to bed early and rise with the sun. Expect massive disruption in the way food is grown, processed and distributed more turnips, fewer mangoes on the menu in the U.K. for starters. Globally, there would be much-reduced private car use, virtually no aviation, haulage or shipping spelling a dramatic end to material globalization as we know it. This is where the Citizens Assembly comes in, to demand citizens give up their freedom for the greater good. And this is where it becomes clear that all this mayhem was never about the environment to begin with. Its about creating a new world order, a new status quo under a leftist regime. See more coverage of liberal lunacy at LeftCult.news. Sources for this article include: ClimateDepot.com EcoWatch.com BBC.com (Natural News) According to experts, drug addicts and pathological gamblers tend to have poor decision-making skills. But can the same be said for people who use Facebook excessively? Data from a study suggest that there is a link between social media use and impaired risky decision-making, a trait that is common among those with substance addiction. The study, which was published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, was conducted by researchers from Michigan State University (MSU). It is the first to delve into the connection between social media use and risky decision-making capabilities. Social media use and risky decisions Dar Meshi, lead author and assistant professor at MSU, explained that at least one-third of humans on the planet are using social media. However, some of these users are, alarmingly, displaying maladaptive, excessive use of these sites. Meshi hopes that the study findings can be used to teach the public about the dangers of social media overuse. Meshi said that people who have substance use disorders often have compromised decision making. These individuals fail to learn from their mistakes and continue down a path of negative outcomes. Prior to the study, no one has looked into this kind of behavior as it relates to excessive social media users. This inspired Meshi and his fellow researchers to examine a possible parallel between excessive social media users and people with substance abuse disorders. Meshi noted that they did not test for the cause of poor decision-making. Instead, they tested for its correlation with problematic social media use. (Related: Is social media addiction a new type of psychiatric condition?) For the study, the researchers worked with 71 volunteers and asked them to take a survey that measured their psychological dependence on Facebook. The questions included in the survey asked about: The users preoccupation with the social media platform Their feelings when unable to access it Attempts made to stop using the platform The impact that Facebook has had on their job or studies The team then asked the volunteers to do the Iowa Gambling Task. This is a common exercise used by psychologists to measure decision-making. Users can successfully complete the task if they could identify outcome patterns in decks of cards and choose the best possible deck. The researchers found that the more excessive a persons social media use was, the worse he or she performed by choosing from bad decks. This result is complementary to results with substance abusers. People who abuse substances, such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or opioids, have similar outcomes on the Iowa Gambling Task. The researchers noted that both groups seem to have impaired decision-making skills. Meshi said that experts must teach the public about the dangers of social media overuse to prevent addiction. While he acknowledged that social media offers some benefits, he also warned that it has negative effects on people who are unable to control their social media usage. Meshi concluded that trying to better understand this drive can help determine if the excessive use of social media should be treated as an addiction. Tips for going on a social media cleanse If you think youre using your social media accounts too much, it may be time to do a social media cleanse. Follow the tips below to get over your obsession with likes and notifications so you can start spending more time with your family and friends. Unfollow people. Review your Facebook friends list. Unfollow anyone you wouldnt trust with your secrets or personal updates that you may post on your account. Review your Facebook friends list. Unfollow anyone you wouldnt trust with your secrets or personal updates that you may post on your account. Choose quality over quantity. Cull your social media apps. Choose one that brings you the most joy and a feeling of connectedness. Dont clog your feed so you dont waste time on apps that arent really adding much to your life. Cull your social media apps. Choose one that brings you the most joy and a feeling of connectedness. Dont clog your feed so you dont waste time on apps that arent really adding much to your life. Turn off your app notifications. Doing this helps you tune out distractions so you can spend more time being productive. Used wisely, social media can help you keep in touch with people who matter to you and those who really care about you. Sources include: ScienceDaily.com TheAwarenessCentre.com (Natural News) POTUS Donald Trump is regularly portrayed by the Left as a fascist authoritarian dictator who suppresses the rights of Americans on a daily basis, though of course they can never tell you which rights the president has taken away and what were no longer allowed to do now that hes in the Oval Office. But in reality, its the Left that embraces totalitarianism and fascist tendencies like quelling any and all dissent by whatever means necessary, up to and including revoking First Amendment rights to free speech and expression. You may have heard that, over the past week social media behemoth Facebook and its Instagram property have deplatformed banned outright a number of controversial figures including Alex Jones, Paul Joseph Watson, Laura Loomer and, just to make it look bipartisan, longtime anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan. Their hate speech and conspiracy theories violate the sensibilities of the Facebook censors. So rather than allow Americans to freely choose whether they want to follow these people or shun them (another First Amendment right freedom of association) the commies that Mark Zuckerberg has hired are doing the choosing for us. But the electronic version of Nazi book burning is going further than that. Not only are Facebook and Instagram deplatforming Jones and the others, they are set to punish anyone who dares to share content from the banned political figures in the same way: Electronic banishment. And now, we learn, the punishment will include completely de-personifying the banned individuals, as The Gateway Pundit reports: Instagram has not only banned Paul Joseph Watson, Laura Loomer and Milo Yiannopoulos they have also now banned fans and friends from posting photos with them as well. The objective is to punish competing political, social, and cultural thought, period One Instagram user ALX tweeted that he posted a picture with Watson, Milo, and Loomer but the censors removed it. It is now against their Community Guidelines to post pictures with people who they have labeled Dangerous. This is terrifying, the user wrote. https://twitter.com/alx/status/1124354143269937153 In a statement to The Gateway Pundit, the user said, I posted the picture to spread awareness and show my support for those who were censored and I added, Will I get Banned too for posting this as sort of a joke. Then when I saw that they actually took my post down this morning, I was shocked. So, not only does Facebook and Instagram want to do their best impression of a Communist Chinese dictator, they both want to unperson those they have deemed not worthy of their platforms as though they never existed. 1984 author George Orwell is nodding his head somewhere muttering to himself, See? What did I tell you? Make no mistake, this is what tyranny looks like. And this is exactly the kind of tyranny our founders fought against. When they crafted the First Amendment, they understood well that unpopular ideas and opinions deserved to be heard and debated just as much as popular ideas. In fact, they knew that usually there wasnt any actual debate over popular ideas; those are generally accepted by a majority of people so whats the point of debating them? (Related: President Trump must seize and shut down the techno-fascists, journo-terrorists and domestic enemies who are censoring conservatives and patriots.) No, its the unpopular ideas like creating a government of, for, and by the people that deserve to be heard so they can be fleshed out, discussed, and given adequate opportunity to be heard in full. That was the original premise behind social media. It was a wonderful extension of our founders original vision of giving voice to everyone who had an idea, an opinion, about something. Even if those views werent popular. My, how times have changed. Not only has social media devolved into a vehicle for oppression and suppression of speech, its now being used to punish anyone who doesnt conform to the accepted view in ways that Britains King Georgeor Adolph Hitler and Josef Stalin would have loved. Read more about how the tech giants are suppressing speech and viewpoints at TechGiants.news and Suppressed.news. Sources include: TheGatewayPundit.com TheNationalSentinel.com (Natural News) Anyone whos been to college in the Wikipedia era, especially anything above the associate degree level, knows thats the last reference resource professors will accept from students when writing research papers. Thats because Wikipedia, which is kind of, sort of, self-edited contains gigabytes of false, phony, or erroneous information. The site isnt peer reviewed by any means, and its just not a reliable source of information. And yet, a new censorship tool being introduced by Facebook will intentionally or inadvertently rely heavily on Wikipedia for the establishment of credible news and information sites. Breitbart Tech notes: Facebook received a lot of attention for overt censorship last week. But the social network is engaging in covert suppression of independent media too most recently with its introduction of Click-Gap, a way of favoring established websites and suppressing non-established ones. Heres how this latest bald-faced censorship scheme will work. Click-Gap will work to penalize news and information sites that have yet to establish authority outside of Facebook, where authority is assessed based on the number of clicks sites get from sources other than the platform, like establishment media sources. Facebooks VP of integrity and VP of news integrity officially explain it this way on the platforms blog: Click-Gap looks for domains with a disproportionate number of outbound Facebook clicks compared to their place in the web graph. This can be a sign that the domain is succeeding on News Feed in a way that doesnt reflect the authority theyve built outside it and is producing low-quality content. This is huge because Facebook has become a primary traffic driver for new websites of all kinds, including, of course, news sites. But, as Breitbart Tech reports, Click-Gap appears to have been designed to promote websites that managed to build up their readership and following before social media became a thing. So the system will naturally favor the older, establishment media outlets like CNN, Washington Post, The New York Times, etc. some of the biggest drivers of fake news in the era of POTUS Donald Trump. (Related: POTUS Trump blasts illegal social media BIAS and censorship, vows actions.) Of course, this is precisely the kind of scenario the mainstream media outlets want; anything they can do to shut out independent media competition, the better. Conspiring to shut out alternative, independent voices with an encyclopedia of propaganda As for how Wikipedia factors into all of this, Breitbart Tech notes that Click Gap will favor the establishment press in another way. One of the largest sources for links and citations of news sources is Wikipedia, the Leftist-dominated online encyclopedia, Breitbart noted. But conservative sourcesare frequently blacklisted as unreliable on the site. Hence, they are not used, which is ironic given the fact that Wikipedia itself is considered unreliable by academia using primarily mainstream media sources. Facebook would be working in tandem with another big tech giant that also loves to censor conservative content: Google, the worlds No. 1 search engine. Can you guess which pages Google produces the most when it comes to searches? Thats right Wikipedia pages. In fact, these frequently appear at the top of Google search pages, making them much more frequently selected by users. And again, since Wikipedia itself feeds so many other mainstream news sites, this, too, will factor into the sites that Click Gap and its underlying algorithm will favor. Anything to crush conservative and independent media because the establishment media cannot compete with us on its own. Case in point: CNN is now reporting that Democrats in Congress are training themselves to appear on Fox News, because it is a ratings behemoth compared to, well, CNN, and the rest of the joke cable news networks. It must have hurt to report that. Read more about the rising censorship of the tech giants at TechGiants.news and Censorship.news. Sources include: CNN.com Breitbart.com Suppressed.news (Natural News) One health issue thats rarely talked about, despite its prevalence, is erectile dysfunction (ED). In the U.S., the condition affects over 30 million men most of whom are older adults. While ED is commonly seen in older men, its important to note that its not due to the normal aging process. Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection, especially during sexual intercourse. In the past, ED was believed to be a psychological problem; researchers have now identified it to be an indicator of any number of chronic diseases that restrict blood flow to the penis. Diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and kidney failure, and stress disorders like depression and anxiety are just some conditions that cause ED in men. For a condition thats not discussed often, the drug used to treat it is relatively well-known. Sildenafil citrate better known by its brand name Viagra is often prescribed to treat ED, as well as pulmonary hypertension. However, it isnt without its side effects, which include prolonged, painful erections, sudden vision loss, seizures, and symptoms similar to a heart attack. How folic acid helps male sexual health Folic acid the synthetic form of vitamin B9 or folate is used in many energy-producing reactions in the body, such as DNA and RNA repair, cell development, including division and growth, brain development, and red blood cell production. Pregnant women, in particular, need it to prevent the fetus from developing congenital deformities like spina bifida and anencephaly. They need it so much that they are advised to take it a year prior to conception. The benefits of folic acid arent limited to the ladies. Multiple studies have indicated that this B-vitamin is also beneficial for men, especially between the sheets. In one study, published in the journal Aging Male, researchers from the Sapienza University of Rome found a link between folic acid deficiency and erectile dysfunction. Men with ED, when compared with those without the condition, had significantly lower folic acid levels. In addition, they had higher levels of homocysteine, a biomarker for heart disease and stroke. An earlier study by the researchers in The Journal of Sexual Medicine concluded that folic acid improves the activity of compounds responsible for causing an erection. This effect was seen even in people with hyperhomocysteinemia or elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood. Another study published in the Asian Journal of Andrology also looked at the association between folic acid deficiency and male sexual problems like ED and premature ejaculation. The latter is a condition where a man ejaculates within a minute after penetration. Researchers from Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University in China assessed folic acid levels in over 100 men suffering from ED, premature ejaculation, or both. Their results revealed that those who had either condition suffered from lower folic acid levels compared to men without the conditions. In a separate study using a leporine model for diabetes, researchers found that treating the rabbits with folic acid greatly improved their quality of erections, indicating that folic acid could have the potential to improve erections. Aside from improving sexual function, folic acid also plays a role in male fertility. Research shows that combining folic acid and zinc can potentially improve total sperm count in both fertile and subfertile men by as much as 74 percent. However, men with abnormally low sperm counts might not benefit as much, as the combination did not significantly boost sperm health in this group of men. (Related: Depression in men linked to folic acid deficiency.) Both men and women should consume 400 micrograms of folate around 240 mcg if its folic acid from fortified food or 200 mcg if taken as a supplement with pregnant and lactating women taking in between 500 to 600 mcg. Some great sources of folate include: Beef liver 3 ounces contain 54 percent of a persons daily value (DV) Spinach cup has 131 mcg of folate or 33 percent DV Boiled cowpeas cup contains 26 percent DV of folate MensHealth.news is the way to go for more stories about naturally maintaining sexual health. Sources include: NIDDK.gov HopkinsMedicine.org Drugs.com SteadyHealth.com MedicalNewsToday.com TandFOnline.com MedlinePlus.gov JSM.JSexMed.org AJAndrology.com MayoClinic.org ODS.OD.NIH.gov (Natural News) A doctoral candidate at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem says that research hes been conducting has led him to the conclusion that chemical giant DuPont had a well-established relationship with the Nazis in Germany both before and during World War II, and was working with the Hitler regime to develop eugenics programs against targeted enemies. According to Nadan Feldman, as many as 150 United States corporations had similar such ties to the Nazis. But he claims that DuPont, like other drug and chemical companies at the time, were especially close to Hitler, working in lockstep with the political movement more out of a shared sense of ideology and belief, as opposed to simply for profit. After poring through many years worth of financial and regulatory reports, including back-and-forth correspondence between DuPont executives and the Nazis, Feldman determined that the main motive of DuPonts involvement with German powers during the 1930s and 1940s was simply to further the cause of the Nazis. The researcher pointed out that DuPont executives began providing support to Adolf Hitler and the Nazis in the 1920s, well before the 1932 elections which led to the establishment of the Nazi dictatorship in the country in 1933, Haaretz reports. In addition to financial support to Hitler, executives allegedly provided financial support to extremist groups in the United States itself, and expressed an interest in causes taken up by the German fascists, such as eugenics and the theory of racial superiority, the Israeli news outlets adds, noting that one of these executives was former DuPont president Irenee du Pont, according to Feldman. DuPont partnered with IG Farben to share critical knowledge for war production There were others involved in these Nazi partnerships as well, including the infamous IG Farben drug company, which would later bear the more well-known drug company offshoot known as Bayer. According to Feldman, DuPont established a technology-sharing agreement with IG Farben that allowed the exchange of critical knowledge for war production. In turn, this allowed the Nazis to start the war, Feldman maintains, with the development of new technologies such as synthetic rubber. This partnership between DuPont and the Nazis, and presumably IG Farben, lasted until 1943, which was well into World War II after Nazi Germany had already made considerable headway in taking over much of Europe. It also lasted beyond the point when the Nazis attacked the USSR, and even after the Nazis declared war on the U.S. itself. Ties were only formally cut after Germany confiscated the assets of U.S. companies in September 1943, reveals Sputnik News. Keep in mind that Bayer, which was created by IG Farben, purchased the worlds most evil corporation, Monsanto, back in 2016 for, get this, $66 billion. A $66 billion purchase in 2016, by the way, includes three 6s which probably wasnt an accident. The combined name, of course, should be MonSatanFarben because Bayer is an offshoot of Interessengemeinschaft Farben (IG Farben), the Nazi-era chemical company that worked with Adolf Hitler to develop and deploy deadly chemical weapons against humanity, joked Mike Adams, the Health Ranger. Did the U.S. government support DuPont and other Nazi-sympathizing companies during WWII? What really bothers Feldman is his perception that many U.S. firms maintained relationships with the Nazis during WWII, undisturbed and even with the tacit support of the U.S. administration despite the growing threat of Hitlers regime to the welfare of Europe and the West. One of these companies was IBM, which reportedly developed the technology that the Nazis used to keep track of prisoners as they were shuffled around between concentration camps. As we recently reported, IBM is actually now working on new and improved blockchain versions of these older technologies that the New World Order will presumably use to maintain ultimate control over peoples lives. For more news about how major corporations are actively developing technologies to enslave the planet, be sure to visit PopulationControlNews.com. Other U.S. companies that Feldman says worked with the Nazis include Standard Oil, General Motors, Ford, ITT, and Union Banking, the latter of which is said to have helped Germany secure the loans it needed to fund equipment and supplies throughout the war. Without the mobilisation of corporate America for Nazi Germany, it is very doubtful whether Hitler could have started the war, doubtful whether he would have succeeded in rehabilitating the German economy certainly not at the speed and strength he achieved in the 30s, Feldman contends. Feldman also says he finds it doubtful that any historian, including himself, will ever fully understand how the corporate executives in charge of these companies could give so much help to such a strong, cruel and fanatic enemy Its also doubtful whether well be able to understand why every one of them avoided punishment. For more related news, be sure to check out Fascism.news. Sources for this article include: SputnikNews.com Haaretz.com NaturalNews.com NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Twitter banned conservative Hollywood actor James Woods again two weeks ago because, in an apparent reference to the Mueller report clearing President Trump of Russian collusion and obstruction, he riffed on a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote using the hashtag #HangThemAll, If you try to kill the King, you best not miss #HangThemAll. (Article by Kristinn Taylor republished from TheGatewayPundit.com) Woods girlfriend Sara Miller posted a copy of the notice of suspension Twitter sent to Woods, Of course Twitter doesnt inform his followers. @RealJamesWoods has received the following email: Of course Twitter doesnt inform his followers. @RealJamesWoods has received the following email: pic.twitter.com/2nnnVBVktQ Sara Miller (@Millerita) April 20, 2019 On May 1, CBS broadcast The Late Show with Stephen Colbert with a segment in which Colbert expressed his desire to wring the neck of Attorney General William Barr, raising his hands to make a strangling motion and then widening his grasp as he joked he would need five more hands (because Barrs neck is so big). Colbert finished by closing his hands in clenched fists of rage. Speaking of Barrs appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee earlier in the day, Colbert said, It was incredibly frustrating to watch; filled with legalistic hair-splitting and political ass-covering. Id say it made me want to wring his neck but Id need like five more hands! The segment of Colbert threatening to strangle Barr was posted as a promo on Twitter several hours before the East Coast airing of the Late Show. We know how this works. If Sean Hannity on his Fox News Channel show said he wanted to wring Hillary Clintons neck while acting it out with his hands there would be boycotts and calls for his firing. Is the FBI investigating Colbert for threatening to strangle the attorney general? And what will Twitter do? BONUS: Sara Miller calls out more blatant Twitter hypocrisy: Thank goodness Twitter is protecting us from conservatives who reference history and quote Emerson. Meanwhile liberals get a free ride on the hate bus pic.twitter.com/pxew193DRg Sara Miller (@Millerita) May 5, 2019 Read morea at: TheGatewayPundit.com Scientists have discovered how two closely-related species of Asiatic dayflower can coexist in the wild despite their competitive relationship. Through a combination of field surveys and artificial pollination experiments, the new study shows that while reproductive interference exists between the two species, Commelina communis and Commelina communis forma ciliata, both can counter the negative effects of this interference through self fertilization. These findings offer a different perspective on theories surrounding co-existence, and suggest a new significance for plants' ability to self-fertilize. The finding was made by Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Research Fellow Koki Katsuhara and Professor Atushi Ushimaru, both part of the Kobe University Graduate School of Human Development and Environment, and it was published on May 2 in Functional Ecology. The ability of plant species to coexist has long fascinated scientists. When species with shared pollinators flower at the same time in the same place, it's thought that the reproductive interference caused by pollinators makes it hard for these plant species to coexist. Reproductive interference occurs when pollen from another species is deposited on the pistil (female reproductive part of the flower), and competition between pollen tubes causes a decrease in seed production. The two species of Asiatic dayflower Commelina communis (Cc) and Commelina communis forma ciliata (Ccfc), commonly found in the fields and roadsides of Japan, produce very similar-looking flowers and attract the same pollinators. First the scientists looked at the two species in the wild. They found that pollinators such as bees and hoverflies visited both species indiscriminately, and both species showed a decrease in seed production as the other species' number of flowers increased. In other words, mutual reproductive interference was occurring. The surveys also suggested that Cc is less affected by this interference than Ccfc. This is consistent with the dominance of Cc in the areas surveyed. By combining fieldwork surveys with artificial pollination experiments, the team discovered that self-pollination helps to reduce the negative impact of reproductive interference. Even when one species was heavily impacted by the large number of flowers produced by the other species, through self-pollination both species managed to produce enough seeds to survive. Cc was able to produce more seeds than Ccfc through self-pollination, which is probably the cause of the asymmetrical production between the species. We would expect Cc to wipe out Ccfc through reproductive interference, but in fact both species can be found growing in the wild. Katsuhara and Ushimaru propose that the distribution of these two species plays an important role in their ability to coexist despite the strong competition between them. While most areas are dominated by Cc, in some areas Ccfc outnumbers Cc, giving it the advantage (Figure 2: in locations with over 70% Ccfc, it is able to leave more seeds than Cc). Even when it is almost totally surrounded by Cc, Ccfc can still leave some seeds through self-pollination (Figure 2: approx. 30%). Scientists believe that self-pollination developed so that plants can still produce seeds even when pollinators are scarce. This study suggests that the self-pollination can also mitigate the negative effects when pollen from other species hinders seed production. Self-pollination could also be used to explain the coexistence of plants who share pollinators. This finding marks a step forward in shedding light on species coexistence, and gives a new perspective to the evolutionary background of self-pollination. The Gremyashchiy corvette of project 20385 has entered the Gulf of Finland for sea running trials, Captain 1st rank Igor Dygalo, the Russian Navy official spokesman, said. The Gremyashchiy corvette of project 20385 has entered the Gulf of Finland for sea running trials, Captain 1st rank Igor Dygalo, the Russian Navy official spokesman, said. First of the two Project 20385 Corvettes leaves the Severnaya Verf shipyards for sea trials (Picture Source: Severnaya Verf) "The corvette is checking the speed parameters in various modes, responsiveness to command and manoeuvrability as well as other characteristics of the life-support systems; communication equipment and radio-electronic weapons in compliance with a program of the first phase of factory running trials," the spokesman said. The crew and the acceptance team from the Severnaya Verf shipbuilding plant, which had built the corvette, received all the necessary instructions before the trials. Special verification checks took place onboard the Gremyashchiy. The crew also trained to establish communication and hand over reports on various elements of the trials to the Main Navy Staff and the headquarters of the Leningrad naval base. The Gremyashchiy is the first project 20385 corvette developed from the upgraded main corvette of project 20380. The Severnaya Verf enterprise is building a second corvette of this project - the Provornyi. The Gremyashchiy corvette was developed by the Almaz Design Bureau. Multi-role corvettes of this type are designed to detect and destroy adversary submarines and surface ships; ensure landing operations and fulfil diverse tasks in the near maritime zone. The corvettes have hangars for two Ka-27 helicopters. The water displacement of project 20385 corvettes is 2,200 tons; the navigation range is 3,500 miles; autonomous navigation is 15 days. The corvettes are equipped with the Kalibr-NK universal missile system; the Redut air defence missile system and the Paket anti-submarine system. Copyright 2019 TASS. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. A woman was transported to a hospital and five others displaced following a two-alarm fire at a near-century-old, six-story apartment building in downtown Santa Rosa early Wednesday morning, according to fire officials. The blaze, first reported at 12:47 a.m. per dispatch, started in a single unit on the sixth floor of the Rosenberg Building at 306 Mendocino Avenue. Assistant Fire Marshal Paul Lowenthal said it was under control at 1:10 a.m. The resident of the unit where the blaze started was the sole person taken to a hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. According to Lowenthal, the building was constructed in the early 1900s and is one of a few buildings in the city that require a special, increased response from the fire department due to its age and number of residents inside. The City of Santa Rosa's website says the structure is a historic landmark with all single-bedroom, single-occupancy residences. Lowenthal credited the building sprinkler system with keeping the fire to the single-unit, but said units throughout the sixth floor had smoke and water damage and some on the fifth floor had water damage, as well. The American Red Cross is assisting the five residents displaced on the fifth and sixth floors. Mendocino Avenue remains closed between Fourth and Fifth Streets, and Fourth Street is also closed. Lowenthal estimated both streets will be closed into in the early morning as crews investigate the fire and overhaul the scene. A baby deer got stuck in a storm drain and was rescued by firefighters Wednesday in Pacifica. The fawn was caught in the drain on the corner of Crespi and Barcelona Drive, according to North County Fire Authority. The area is not far from Sweeney Ridge Trail and San Pedro Valley County Park where wildlife such as deer are found. The rescue took about 10 minutes, officials said. It was unclear how the tiny creature, which appears to be only a day or two old, got there. An adult deer believed to be the mother was seen nearby, according North County Fire officials, but it appears the mom was rejecting her baby. If the mother rejects the fawn, an officer will take it to the Peninsula Animal Shelter, officials said. See the rescue, assisted by Pacifica police, in the video below: Federal privacy regulators are under scrutiny in Congress as they negotiate a record fine with Facebook to punish the company for alleged violations of its users' privacy. The Federal Trade Commission is considering a rare action holding CEO Mark Zuckerberg personally accountable for Facebook's alleged failure to honor a 2011 agreement over privacy lapses. The agency also may limit how the giant social network targets advertising to its massive user base potentially making the action far more than a regulatory slap on the wrist. Beyond a fine expected to run as high as $5 billion, comprehensive action by the FTC could mark a watershed in federal action against the tech industry in the name of consumer privacy. FTC Chairman Joseph Simons and his four fellow commission members are coming before the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee on consumer protection at a hearing Wednesday. Simons, appointed by President Donald Trump in October 2017, is an expert in antitrust law who headed the FTC's competition division under President George W. Bush. By usual practice, the FTC an independent agency is split 3-2 between Republican and Democratic members. Simons has advocated tougher enforcement action against tech companies, and must obtain the agreement of at least two other commissioners for any action on Facebook. Lawmakers have started work on a new national privacy law that could sharply curtail the ability of the biggest tech companies to collect and make money off people's personal data. The role of the FTC as an enforcer of privacy protections is a key issue in the debate over legislation. Consumer privacy advocates and Democratic lawmakers, saying the agency lacks teeth, have pushed for changing the law to expand its powers and funding to police privacy. The FTC doesn't have the authority, for example, to levy civil money penalties for first violations for most unfair or deceptive practices. It can only issue orders halting the conduct, as it did with Facebook in 2011. The agency would be expected to write new privacy rules should Congress pass a new law. Behind the momentum for a new law is rising concern over a string of scandals and the compromise of private data held by Facebook, Google and other tech giants that have reaped riches by aggregating consumer information. The industry has traditionally been lightly regulated and has resisted closer oversight as a threat to its culture of free-wheeling innovation. Republicans have generally opposed an expansion of federal authority, but in the wake of the Facebook and other privacy scandals, some have taken a more open view toward the FTC's powers and funding. Some business groups are also proposing an expanded role in privacy protection for the FTC. The 2011 consent decree with the FTC bound Facebook to a 20-year privacy commitment. Violations could subject the company to fines of $41,484 per violation per user per day. The agreement requires that Facebook users give "affirmative express consent" any time that data they haven't made public is shared with a third party. The agency started investigating Facebook's privacy practices more than a year ago after reports surfaced that the British political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica had improperly accessed the data of as many as 87 million Facebook users without their consent. Lawmakers of both parties are pressuring the FTC to act decisively against Facebook in light of alleged failure to live up to that commitment. The agency should quickly complete its investigation and "compel sweeping changes to end the social network's pattern of misuse and abuse of personal data," Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri and Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in a letter Monday to Simons. Both are members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. "The Facebook consent-decree violations have been blatant and brazen, an offensive defiance that adds insult to injury," they wrote. They called the $3 billion to $5 billion fine anticipated by Facebook "a bargain" for the company that would make the FTC look like "traffic police handing out speeding tickets to companies profiting off breaking the law." "Fines alone are insufficient," Hawley and Blumenthal said. "Far-reaching reforms must finally hold Facebook accountable to consumers." Fremont is considering setting up a center in the city's Niles district to help homeless people find housing. And while most agree the city needs to tackle homelessness, many neighbors are already fighting back against the plan. The idea is to put up modular buildings on an open field owned by a church and create a 24/7 navigation center to help the homeless get into housing. The city of Fremont wants to get people out of RVs and tents and into stable housing, which is why it's negotiating with Niles Discovery Church to convert the grassy lot into a temporary home for 45 people. The navigation center would be run by an outside agency and offer showers, meals and beds, along with substance abuse and mental health services. Don Cardoza lives nearby and has concerns about security. He explained he's already had issues with homeless people camped nearby, saying one woman who was "definitely casing the house." The navigation center would house people for six months and be modeled after a successful center in Berkeley. But more than 1,000 people have signed an online petition expressing concerns for a variety of reasons. "Crimes, the people, needles," resident Adam Hackney said. Rev. Brenda Loreman, with Niles Discovery Church says Fremont can't address the homeless problem by being fearful. "Homelessness is already in our neighborhood," Loreman said. "We need to do big, brave things to address the problem." The Fremont City Council is scheduled to discuss the plan in June. What to Know An October 2018 NBC Bay Area investigation found many safes marketed as 'fireproof' can still melt in a fire Our reporting led to changes at FireKing, one of the nation's top safe manufacturers Consumers should look for the UL logo and fire rating when buying a safe How safe is your safe in a fire? In October 2018, our NBC Bay Area Responds team investigated melting safes reported by North Bay wildfire victims -- even though many safes are advertised as "fireproof". Now, a top safe manufacturer has responded to our reporting with a change in its marketing policy. We took our concerns east to the company that patented the first "fireproof" safe. We visited its factory, watched as it set a safe on fire and changed almost a century of history. FireKing Security Group invited NBC Bay Area to visit its manufacturing plant in New Albany, Indiana -- just across the state line from Louisville, Kentucky, along the Ohio River. There, the company manufactures safes, vaults, file cabinets and other secure storage products. Gary Weisman, president of FireKing International, says his team works hard to uphold its reputation. "We've got 110 people in the plant," Weisman said. "We run four days a week, 10 hours a day." All that effort makes safes, chests and cabinets intended to survive an inferno. It's FireKing's specialty, and the company has advertised it that way for decades. "It's been called 'fireproof' for so long," Weisman said. A FireKing predecessor patented the first "fireproof" safe in 1919. FireKing has used the term ever since. But it won't for much longer. Last year, NBC Bay Area revealed how the term "fireproof" might be misleading. North Bay fire victims like Mike Cobb learned that the hard way, when their "fireproof" safes melted. "Both of them just completely disintegrated," Cobb said. Those revelations reverberated in Indiana. Weisman saw our report and learned the term "fireproof" is meaningless for most of us. "It's a manufacturer's label," Weisman said. "Nobody's testing it." Now, after almost 100 years of saying "fireproof," Weisman has committed to pull the term from FireKing's advertising. "After watching your story, we have decided we will go to 'fire resistant' and not say 'fireproof,'" Weisman said. Future customers will be told how many hours their safe is fire resistant, based on independent lab tests. We asked Weisman if the rest of the safe industry should follow suit. "They should," he said. "At the end of the day, if the customer is being misled, you've got to make it right." Other major safe sellers, including Amazon, Walmart and Home Depot, use the word "fireproof." We shared our research and asked if they'll pull the term. None responded to us. If you think the lingo doesn't matter, FireKing arranged an eye-opening demonstration. Watch what happens when a safe is exposed to 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit. Chris Chmura takes us inside the FireKing factory in Indiana where safes are built -- and destroyed! Two "fireproof" products were subjected to what's known as a Class 73 fire test. A gun safe and a file cabinet were placed in a huge on-site furnace. The heat quickly soared to 1,700 degrees Fahrenheit, about 500 degrees hotter than a typical house fire. After just four minutes, an early result: "The gun safe has already failed," Weisman said, pointing at a temperature gauge. When workers opened the furnace 30 minutes later, the "fireproof" gun safe itself was on fire. After a few minutes of cooling outside the factory, inconsistency was on full display. The "fireproof" file cabinet's exterior was badly charred, but paper inside survived the heat blast. The "fireproof" gun safe, however, fell apart when opened, its contents completely destroyed. Two products labeled "fireproof" -- just one survivor. "This is not good for our industry," Weisman said. "We hate to see this." Weisman wants his industry to use labels consumers can trust. We asked if the U.S. government should require it. "We would not be opposed to it," he said. "That would stop people from buying these and losing everything." Weisman recommends you look for the "UL" logo on a safe. Underwriters Laboratories, or UL, runs independent tests on consumer products. Its ratings should tell you how fire-resistant a safe is. If you're unsure, ask the manufacturer. Also, ask if there's any kind of guarantee. Many safes do carry one. If so, take photos of your safe and its contents now. Then, save those files digitally, in case the safe fails. A well-known San Francisco filmmaker has been rearrested for a 3-year-old murder in the citys Glen Park District. Kevin Epps, 51, whose resume includes "Straight Outta Hunters Point" will face a judge Wednesday for the killing of 45-year-old Marcus Polk in 2016. Epps was arrested for the murder the day that it happened and the next day, when the district attorney decided not to press charges, several people including then-Supervisor London Breed wondered if his arrest was a rush to judgement by police. "We live in a world with a lotta guns, understand what Im saying? Unfortunately, Kevin has got caught up in a situation where hopefully hell be vindicated and well find out whatever it was, was justified," said Rudy Valintino from youth organization United Playaz. The district attorneys office will only say it has a strong new evidence against Epps. Two men were taken to a hospital on Monday night after five or six people in South San Jose - ranging from 16 to 18 years old - allegedly assaulted them, according to police. The assault was first reported at 9:47 p.m. in the 5700 block of Tucson Drive, San Jose police Sgt. Enrique Garcia said. Shots were fired in the area at the time of the assault, but Garcia said no victims were located. No suspects were in custody as of early Monday morning. The victims suffered injuries not considered life-threatening. An eighth-grader was struck by a vehicle near Harvest Park Middle School in Pleasanton Friday as he was heading across Greenwood Road north of Valley Avenue towards his mother's parked car, according to the police. Officers responded to the collision at 3:14 p.m. Friday. The student had left the west curb line and was emerging from between two parked cars at the time of the collision. He sustained injuries to his mouth and face requiring medical attention. Witnesses reported that the vehicle that slammed into the student continued south on Greenwood Road and parked along the curb on the other side of Valley Avenue. The driver waited for five minutes to pick up her child and then turned around and drove away. A dashcam of one of the witness' cars captured images of the vehicle. It was a silver Toyota Sienna van with a female driver. On Monday, the driver of the Toyota reported to the police that she realized she had been involved in the collision after seeing a news story on social media. The police took her statement and said that she has been cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation. Anyone with further information regarding the collision can contact the Pleasanton Police Department at (925) 931-5100. Chicago Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot is just days away from her official swearing-in ceremony, and shes in Washington D.C. meeting with political leaders and trying to make a good first impression in the nations capital. Lightfoot, spending her second day in Washington on Wednesday, focused her efforts on raising awareness, and exploring the idea of raising money, for transportation needs in the city. I feel optimistic were going to work on common points of connection, she said. I think theyre interested in trying to be helpful. Lightfoot spent time at the White House on Wednesday, discussing her transportation wishlist with the Trump administration. Just days before she is set to be sworn in, Chicago Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot met with the Congressional Black Caucus, but despite crossing paths with a congressman critical of her candidacy, the hatchet hasnt quite yet been buried. NBC 5s Mary Ann Ahern has the details. Theyve been in and out of Chicago, and its clear to me that they know things about people and organizations in Chicago on a granular level, she said. The mayor-elect is already making an impression on Chicagos Congressional delegation, including Rep. Jesus Chuy Garcia, who chose not to run for mayor in the 2019 race. Garcia said he would advocate for Lightfoot, and has no qualms about how the race shook out. She is taking over at a very difficult time, he said. She needs money for infrastructure, and she really wants to make a difference in the neighborhoods. My goal is to be a cheerleader for the city of Chicago, Lightfoot said. I want to bring attention to things that are working well and to seek resources for the challenges that we have so we can bring a better quality of life to people in the city. Not every member of the Congressional delegation has met with Lightfoot during her visit. Just days before the April election, Congresman Bobby Rush said those who supported Lightfoot would have blood on their hands because he considers her pro-police. The two politicians briefly crossed paths in the halls of Congress Wednesday, as Lightfoot left a meeting of the Congressional Black Caucus. We were walking out as he was walking in, Lightfoot said. I want to make sure I focus on moving Chicago forward. The election is over. Our city has a lot of wounds that it needs to heal, and I want to do everything I can to be true to the mandate I was given in the election. Rep. Rush was asked if he felt he should apologize to Lightfoot, and he declined to do so. The campaign is over, he said. Campaigns are known for having language and rhetoric. Were not permanent enemies, and we have permanent interests, I hope. Lightfoot will attend a fundraiser at a government affairs group on Wednesday evening, and will meet with Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth on Thursday. The body of a worker who remained missing following a deadly explosion in Waukegan last week has been found and identified, marking the fourth death in the blast that destroyed a north suburban plant, authorities said Wednesday. The missing worker's body was located Tuesday night. He was identified by AB Specialty Silicones as 24-year-old Daniel Nicklas of Beach Park. He was a quality control chemist and had been working for the comapny for eight months, AB Specialy Silicones said. "We weren't going to leave without getting him back to his family," said Lake County Coroner Howard Cooper, before Nicklas was identified. Crews spent days sifting through the rubble of the crumbled AB Specialty Silicones plant. "It was an area that was more difficult to access," Cooper said. "It was not too far from one of the other victims but we couldn't get too far into the area." Cooper said he informed the victim's family of the discovery. "I think this was a sense of relief that he was found and they're going to be able to move on and find closure," Cooper said. The identities of two other workers found in the rubble were released earlier in the week. Jeff Cummings, 57, of Kenosha and Byron H. Biehn, 53, of Brighton Township, Wisconsin were both killed in the Friday blast. Autopsies were conducted Monday but the results were still pending toxicology, according to Lake County Coroner Howard Cooper. Authorities had already identified Allen Stevens among the victims after the 29-year-old passed away at an area hospital following the explosion. We are heartbroken by this tragedy," Biehn's family said in a statement. "Byron was a beloved husband, father, son (in-law), bother (in-law), Godfather, uncle, and friend to many. We are so very grateful for the outpouring of prayers and support for Byron and our family. We ask that you keep the victims, their families, and the first responders in your prayers." The family said Biehn was a longtime employee with the company. An investigation into what happened remained ongoing and an exact cause had not been determined as of Tuesday. An explosion in Waukegan has now claimed three lives, and one person remains missing at the site of the blast. NBC 5s Lexi Sutter has all the latest details. A charred metal frame and piles of debris are all that remain after the deadly explosion Friday night. Those who died are being hailed as heroes. Investigators said they noticed a problem and were helping their coworkers exit the building when it burst into flames. The explosion was so intense it even damaged a neighboring plant. "We are shocked and heartbroken by the tragedy that occurred in our plant last night," AB Speciality Silicones GM Mac Penman said in a statement. "We have spent the day trying our best to support all of the members of our AB family as we attempt to process this terrible loss together. "We want to express our extreme gratitude to all the first responders who arrived at the scene. We continue to work closely with the Waukegan Fire Department and the Illinois Fire Marshal as they secure the scene and complete their investigation," he added. A memorial service for employees will be held Friay at 10 a.m. at the site of the Waukegan facility, the company said. A Maine South High School student was arrested Sunday in northwest suburban Norridge for posting a prank threat on social media. Saul Merino, 18, was charged with felony disorderly conduct after Park Ridge police said he posted a photo with a rifle on Snapchat under the caption, No one come to school tomorrow. Another Maine South student saw the photo and showed his parents, who called the authorities, police said. Officers immediately responded to Merinos address in the 8500 block of Foster Avenue and took him to the police station for questioning. Upon further investigation, officers concluded that the Snapchat post was meant as a prank and that Merino did not pose a credible threat to the community, police said. Merinos bond was set at $10,000, police said. He is due in court June 4. The family of a missing pregnant woman said Wednesday that they believe a baby found abandoned on top of a trash can in Chicago the previous day may be related to her, calling for a "speedy and thorough" investigation. Relatives of Marlen Ochoa, who has also been referred to as Marlen Lopez and Marlen Ochoa-Uriostegui, spoke at a news conference Wednesday morning at a church on Chicago's Northwest Side. "I think that we're convinced now that there's some wrongdoing here, that this is not somebody that just disappeared," Rev. Walter Coleman said at the news conference. "This is somebody that we believe is being held and we hope that she's alright," he continued, adding, "We believe that Marlen is still alive. We will find out hopefully in the next few days if this newborn baby was actually part of the family." Ochoa, 19, was last seen leaving the Latino Youth High School in the Little Village neighborhood, where she had been taking classes, on April 23. She was supposed to pick up her 3-year-old son from daycare that afternoon but her family said she never showed up. Ochoa was nine months pregnant with her second child when she was reported missing. Chicago police issued a high-risk missing persons alert for Ochoa on April 27. A CPD spokesman said Wednesday that officers could not confirm the baby found the day before was related to her. "We will need DNA and we have asked for it," Anthony Guglielmi said in an emailed statement. Authorities said a passerby noticed the newborn baby boy on top of a trash can Tuesday afternoon in the 1700 block of North Keystone Avenue in the city's Hermosa neighborhood. The good Samaritan brought the baby to a firehouse, according to Chicago police, who said paramedics then took the baby to Norwegian American Hospital in critical condition just after 4 p.m. The baby was "crying and kicking," a fire department spokesman said, and his condition was upgraded to stable before he was then transferred to Lurie Children's Hospital. The newborn was the first baby to be illegally abandoned in Illinois this year, according to Dawn Geras, who lobbied to pass Illinois' "Safe Haven" law. Under the law, infants 30 days or younger may be dropped off with no questions asked at a hospital, fire or police station, according to the state's Department of Child and Family Services. Ochoa's family said in a statement before their scheduled news conference that communications with police to date "have been a challenge" and that they planned to call on authorities to perform a DNA test on the newborn to identify whether or not Ochoa is the mother. But on Wednesday, Coleman said the family now thought police were adequately investigating the case. "We are convinced now that the police are working on this and that was our initial concern, that there is an ongoing investigation and they established some real leads that they can go on," he said. "We praise God, no matter whose baby it is, that this baby turned out through the efforts of the fire department to be alive, its a blessing from the lord," Coleman said. Ochoa was described as an Hispanic woman, standing at 5'3" and weighing around 125 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes, as well as a distinctive nose ring, according to the alert issued by police. She was last seen wearing a gray sweater and sweatpants with a maroon top bearing the Latino Youth High School logo, officials said. Ochoa may be driving a black Honda Civic, license plate number AW27865, according to police. Anyone with information on Ochoa or her whereabouts was asked to call 911 or CPD's Special Victim's Unit at (312) 747-8274. The court-appointed attorney for the northern Illinois man accused of murdering his 2-year-old son wants a psychological evaluation of his client. Henry Sugden filed a motion in McHenry County Circuit Court seeking the exam for Andrew Freund Sr., citing concerns over the man's ability to recall and assist in his defense. Although Sugden declined to get more specific Tuesday, he noted the 60-year-old Freund's history of drug abuse. Judge Robert Wilbrandt is expected to address Sugden's motion in a hearing this week. AJ Freunds' parents, 36-year-old JoAnn Cunningham and Freund Sr., are charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery and related charges in the boy's beating death. Police found his body in a shallow grave covered with straw April 24, nine days after authorities say he died and a week after his parents reported him missing. As U.S. trade talks with China drag on, President Donald Trump falsely claimed that the U.S. has never taken in 10 cents from China in tariffs, but now were taking in billions and billions of dollars. The U.S. has collected billions in customs duties on Chinese imports for years, although the amount has increased greatly since the trade war with China began. Trump also exaggerated the total trade deficit with China, as he has been doing for years. The U.S. and China have been trying to negotiate a trade agreement since last year, when Trump initiated a trade conflict with China by imposing tariffs on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods. China responded with tariffs on $110 billion of U.S. goods. While chairing the U.N. Security Council for the first time, President Donald Trump accused China of attempting to interfere in America's upcoming midterm elections. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin traveled to Beijing last week for the latest round of trade talks, and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He is expected in Washington this week. Ambassador Lighthizer and I just concluded productive meetings with Chinas Vice Premier Liu He. We will continue our talks in Washington, D.C. next week, Mnuchin tweeted on May 1. Two days later, at a bilateral meeting with the prime minister of the Slovak Republic, Trump spoke about the status of the ongoing trade talks with China. -- Trump, May 3: Were taking in billions of dollars from China in the form of tariffs, as you know. Were charging China tariffs. Weve never taken in 10 cents from China, and now were taking in billions and billions of dollars. Thats had a very positive effect on things. -- The president distorts the facts about tariffs again. As we have written before, tariffs are paid by U.S. importers in the form of customs duties, and to some extent by U.S. consumers in the form of higher prices. They are not paid by China. In an interview that aired May 7 on NPR, former White House economic adviser Gary Cohn said: For every dollar of tariff thats collected, its coming out of disposable income of the United States consumer today. This time, the president compounded his false claim by stating that the U.S. has never taken in 10 cents from China, and now were taking in billions and billions of dollars. In fact, the U.S. has collected billions in tariffs on Chinese imports for years. Below is a chart we created from the U.S. International Trade Commission DataWeb, which uses data from the U.S. Census Bureau. As the chart shows, tariff revenue has increased substantially as a result of the increased tariffs on Chinese imports up 70 percent in 2018 over the previous calendar year. But revenue was already in the billions before Trump took office contrary to the presidents claim. Trump also claimed that the increased tariffs he has imposed on China have had a very positive effect on things. It is true that the increase has raised more in revenue, as weve shown. However, Chinas retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural and food products threaten to reduce the U.S. agricultural trade surplus in fiscal year 2019 to the lowest level since 2007, partly because of significant declines in projected exports to China, according to the U.S. Department of Agricultures Economic Research Service. China has placed tariffs on more than 800 U.S. products, including soybeans, pork, dairy products, fruits and nuts, seafood, and processed products, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service. China has fallen from the leading export market for U.S. agricultural products in FY2017 to the third-leading export market in FY2018 due to the retaliatory tariffs, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). USDA forecasts that China will fall to the fifth-leading market for those products in FY2019, CRS said in a Dec. 31, 2018, report. The report goes on to say: In November 2018, USDA forecast that U.S. agricultural and food exports to China would decline to $9 billion in FY2019 from $16.3 billion in FY2018 and $21.8 billion in FY2017, citing reduced exports due to the trade tensions between the United States and China. Trump has expressed concern in recent days about the pace of negotiations with China. On May 5, Trump threatened to impose more tariffs on China, complaining that the trade talks have moved too slowly. A day later, Trump falsely tweeted: With China we lose 500 Billion Dollars. Trump commonly distorts the facts about trade deficits. In fact, the U.S. had a total trade deficit with China in goods and services of nearly $379 billion in 2018. The U.S. had a deficit in goods of about $419 billion with China, but that was offset by a $40.5 billion trade surplus in services. In his remarks on May 3, the president also said this about the European Union: Were losing $181 billion a year. We have been for many years. The U.S. had a $110 billion total deficit in goods and services with the EU in 2018, up 20 percent since Trump took office. The U.S. deficit in goods was $170 billion, but the U.S. had a $60 billion surplus in services. The House Judiciary Committee voted Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, escalating the Democrats' extraordinary legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Mueller's Trump-Russia report. The vote capped a day of ever-deepening dispute between congressional Democrats and President Donald Trump, who for the first time invoked the principle of executive privilege, claiming the right to block lawmakers from the full report on Mueller's probe of Russian interference to help Trump in the 2016 election. Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler of New York declared the action by Trump's Justice Department a clear new sign of the president's "blanket defiance" of Congress' constitutional rights to conduct oversight. "We did not relish doing this, but we have no choice," Nadler said after the vote. The White House's blockade, he said, "is an attack on the ability of the American people to know what the executive branch is doing." He said, "This cannot be." But Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said it was disappointing that members of Congress "have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics." Barr made "extraordinary efforts" to provide Congress and the public with information about Mueller's work, she said. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said neither the White House nor Barr "will comply with Chairman Nadler's unlawful and reckless demands." Late Wednesday the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee issued his own subpoena to the Justice Department for the full Mueller report, as the confrontation intensifies. Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff of California, whose committee had previously requested the documents, said he has "no choice" but to compel the department's compliance. He warned that if it continues to "ignore or rejects our requests," the panel could take legal action. Kupec declined to comment. Though the White House initially hesitated on invoking privilege, Trump told his staff and political advisers in recent weeks to refuse to cooperate with Democrats, believing the party's goal was simply to damage him politically going into his re-election campaign. The coming legal battle could stretch to 2020, and the White House is aiming to tie up congressional probes until Election Day. Executive privilege is the president's power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. The president's decision was weeks in the making, the next inevitable escalation between the White House and Congress over a number of probes. The White House has rejected all efforts to probe Trump's business dealings or tax returns as well as the West Wing's security clearance procedure. The committee voted along party lines, 24-16, to recommend the full House hold Barr in contempt, but only after some five hours of heated and, at times, emotional testimony. Democrats made their case that Congress was at a historic juncture as it confronts what they consider Trump's stonewalling of lawmakers' ability to conduct oversight of the administration. Republicans portrayed the majority as angry and lashing out at Barr after the special counsel did not find that Trump colluded with Russia to swing the 2016 election. Said Democrat Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas: "The president now seeks to take a wrecking ball to the Constitution of the United States." And Rep. Cedric Richmond of Louisiana said the road ahead may be "messy" but Democrats must fight to "protect our democracy." Other Democrats called the standoff a "serious" and "grave" moment. However, the panel's top Republican, Doug Collins of Georgia, said Democrats were manufacturing a crisis and rushing the process to "sully Bill Barr's good name." Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, a Trump ally, said the Democrats were trying to "delegitimize" the president and biding time before they try to impeach him. "Get over it," Gaetz said. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has said the next step will be consideration by the full House. Nadler said that will happen soon. "We are now in a constitutional crisis," Nadler said after the committee vote. If approved by the House, where the Democrats hold a solid majority, the contempt resolution would almost certainly move to an unusual, and potentially protracted, multi-pronged court battle with the Trump administration. The contempt finding could be referred to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a Justice Department official who would be likely to defend rather than oppose Barr. Democratic House leaders could also file a lawsuit, though the case could take months or even years to resolve. Some committee members have suggested they also could fine Barr as he withholds information. Nadler said Wednesday the Trump administration's refusal to provide the special counsel's full Russia report to Congress presents a "constitutional crisis." In a letter Wednesday to Trump , Barr explained that the special counsel's files contain millions of pages of classified and unclassified information. He said it was the committee's "abrupt resort to a contempt vote" that "has not allowed sufficient time for you to consider fully whether to make a conclusive assertion of executive privilege." Barr told Trump he should assert privilege now, "pending a full decision on the matter." Talks with the Justice Department broke down over the committee's subpoena for an unredacted version of the report. Barr released a redacted version of Mueller's 400-plus-page report to the public last month, but Democrats subpoenaed the full document , along with underlying evidence. The department has rejected that demand, while allowing a few top lawmakers from the House and Senate to view a version with fewer redactions. That version blacks out grand jury information, which needs a judge's approval for release, and it doesn't include the report's underlying evidence. Democrats have said they won't view that version until they get broader access. Almost half the report's pages contain some type of redaction including those around the Russian influence campaign, presidential pardons and other topics. Barr has refused to testify in public to the committee after a disagreement over the Democrats' demand that he answer questions from a staff attorney in addition to lawmakers. The committee is in talks for Mueller himself to appear May 15, but there is no agreement yet, and Trump has said Mueller should not testify. Nadler also has threatened to hold former White House Counsel Don McGahn in contempt of Congress if he doesn't testify before the committee later this month. Nadler rejected a White House claim that documents McGahn refused to provide despite a subpoena are controlled by the White House and thus McGahn has no legal right to them. Pelosi, who has tamped down calls from her liberal flank to launch impeachment proceedings against Trump, said in a Washington Post interview Wednesday that the president, by obstructing Congress was becoming "self-impeachable." Mueller, in his report, said he could not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, but he did not reach a conclusion on whether Trump obstructed justice. Barr said he and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein decided there were not grounds to charge Trump with obstruction. A former White House lawyer defied a congressional subpoena Tuesday, setting the Trump administration on course for another collision with the Democratic-led House over its pursuit of documents related to the Russia investigation. Don McGahn's refusal to provide the documents to the House Judiciary Committee came at the instruction of the White House, which suggested the documents could be subject to executive privilege. Such a claim can shield some presidential material from disclosure. President Donald Trump has defied requests from House Democrats since the release of special counsel Robert Mueller's report last month. Republicans have largely united behind the president, with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Tuesday declaring "case closed" on Mueller's Russia probe and potential obstruction by Trump. McConnell said Democrats are "grieving" the result. Mueller said he could not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, but he did not reach a conclusion on whether Trump obstructed justice. Mueller didn't charge Trump but wrote that he couldn't exonerate him, either. Democrats say the case is anything but closed and are conducting their own review of Mueller's investigation of Russian election interference. The Judiciary panel wants to speak to McGahn and review certain documents, in part because he was a vital witness for Mueller, recounting the president's outrage over the investigation and his efforts to curtail it. White House counsel Pat Cipollone said McGahn does not have any "legal right" to the materials because they are controlled by the White House. Cipollone did not invoke executive privilege in a letter to House Judiciary Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., but strongly signaled the option is on the table. He said the records Democrats are seeking "remain legally protected from disclosure under longstanding constitutional principles." In a letter to McGahn's lawyer Tuesday evening, Nadler rejected the argument that McGahn has no right to turn over documents to the committee. He said the "blanket suggestion of potential privilege is entirely insufficient." Executive privilege is the president's power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. There is no reference to executive privilege in the Constitution, but the Supreme Court has held that it derives from the president's ability to carry out the duties the commander in chief holds under the Constitution. Nadler also threatened to hold McGahn in contempt of Congress if he doesn't testify before the committee later this month. Trump has signaled he will try to block McGahn from appearing, despite a committee subpoena. McGahn's lawyer said that he will "maintain the status quo" and wait for the White House and the committee to reach an agreement. "As you will appreciate, Mr. McGahn, as a former assistant to the president and the most senior attorney for the president in his official capacity, continues to owe certain duties and obligations to the President which he is not free to disregard," wrote attorney William Burck. The struggle over McGahn's testimony is playing out against the backdrop of a larger debate on Capitol Hill about what action if any to take following the conclusion of Mueller's investigation. McConnell, in his most significant public comments yet on the investigation, opened the Senate on Tuesday with a speech discussing how Mueller's "exhaustive" probe is now complete. "It's finally over," the Kentucky Republican said. He called Mueller's findings "bad news for the outrage industrial complex but good news for the rest of the country." The speech drew swift rebuttals from Democrats. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer issued a joint statement calling it "a stunning act of political cynicism and a brazen violation of the oath we all take." After McConnell's speech, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, a Democratic presidential candidate, made her own trip to the Senate floor to say the House should begin impeachment proceedings a step that Pelosi has so far resisted. Yet Pelosi also said Trump seems to be "making the case" for his impeachment by brazenly obstructing investigations. "He's just trying to goad us into impeachment," Pelosi said in a talk at Cornell's Institute of Politics and Global Affairs. The dispute with the White House over McGahn is among several requests being resisted by the administration. The Judiciary Committee is also negotiating with the Justice Department over obtaining a full, unredacted version of Mueller's report. Attorney General William Barr released a redacted version to the public last month, but Democrats want to see the full document, plus underlying documents, and have scheduled a committee vote Wednesday to hold Barr in contempt for not providing it. With the contempt vote looming Wednesday, staff members from the House Judiciary Committee met with Justice Department officials on Tuesday afternoon. Negotiations went into the evening as the two sides traded offers on how many lawmakers would be able to view the report, how many staff, and whether the department would work with the committee to gain access to secret grand jury material. But talks stalled late Tuesday evening when the two sides couldn't agree on any of those terms. In another development, Assistant Attorney General Stephen Boyd told the committee in a letter late Tuesday that, in the face of a contempt vote, Barr would be compelled to request that the president invoke executive privilege with respect to the materials subject to the subpoena. It was not immediately clear how a claim of executive privilege would work given that Mueller's report has already been released to the public in redacted form. Nadler dismissed the idea, saying in a statement in response to Boyd's letter to the committee that "this is, of course, not how executive privilege works." "The White House waived these privileges long ago, and the Department seemed open to sharing these materials with us earlier today. The Department's legal arguments are without credibility, merit, or legal or factual basis," Nadler said. If the committee approves a contempt resolution against Barr, it would head to the full House for final approval. But that step is unlikely to lead to criminal charges. A House vote would send a criminal referral to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a Justice Department official who is likely to defend the attorney general. Democratic House leaders could also file a lawsuit against the Justice Department to obtain the Mueller report, an option that could take months or even years to resolve. Some committee members have suggested they also could fine Barr as he withholds the information. Associated Press writer Eric Tucker contributed to this report. A Connecticut man who used a wet towel to suffocate his wife, fled with his 6-year-old daughter, and abandoned the girl in a New York City bus depot, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison. The Stamford Advocate reports that 35-year-old Elmer Gomez Ruano apologized to the judge at his sentencing hearing Tuesday. He pleaded guilty in January to murder in the November 2016 killing of Donicia Bautista-Cano in their Stamford apartment. The couple had been having marital problems, but had reconciled and had just started living together again two days before the killing. Gomez Ruano had faced 60 years in prison if convicted at trial. Prosecutors say their daughter was asleep at the time of the killing and he took her with him as he fled authorities. One person was hurt when a dirt bike crashed into a van in Hartford Wednesday. Hartford police said the dirt bike was traveling illegally on Albany Avenue when it collided with a van. The rider was taken to the hospital. This is the second crash on Albany Avenue involving an illegal vehicle in nine days, police said. Hartford, like other cities and towns in Connecticut, has had repeated issues with people illegally riding dirt bikes and ATVs on city streets. The dirt bike was seized by police. No other information was immediately available. Connecticut farmers are seeing the effects of climate change and considering ways to adapt to a warmer climate. A second-generation farmer, Irv Silverman has been around long enough to see climate change impacts first hand, and he is concerned about the future at his farm and for his grandchildren, whether they farm or not. As far as his crops - mainly apples and peaches - climate change is creating problems by producing too much rain, like this past April. "Well, the springs have been getting warmer and wetter theres the problem, he said. Peaches are pollinated by bees like everything else. When it stays wet, bees dont work they don't pollinate. Without that window for pollination, and when there is a very wet spring, there is no production, Silverman explained. The shorter, cold season and warmer and sometimes wet springs have allowed pests to flourish. Climate Change in Hartford: Temperature Vitals Here is a look at current temperatures and the historic trend that shows a nearly 2-degree rise since 1950. You get a lot more mosquito problems because we have a lot of rain, and its warm. You have standing water. Standing water causes mosquitoes gnats, other things to multiply terribly, and ticks, which is another thing everybody has a problem with. The colder winters in the past have killed ticks, but with warmer winters theyre seeing a bigger tick problem, Silverman said. Right now, Silverman Farms has a great "pick your own", family fun farm, where the peaches and apples are the primary crops. But in a warming world, Silverman is concerned about what this farm will be able to produce in 50 years. "From the south, coming up, its not really a joke, but I could see, you know, palm trees and oranges here. I may not be here for it, but with climate change these are the things that happen, Silverman said. As coldest recorded temperatures rise each year, the ability to grow different things becomes a real possibility. To date, climate change has not impacted the farm's yield, but it has created new challenges. But what if there was a way to take the growing season out of the equation and grow produce 12 months of the year? Maple Lane Farms II in Cheshire is doing with that with hydroponics. The main ingredients for farming are plenty of bright sun, nice, seasonable temperatures, and dark, fertile soil, but Maple Lane has no soil. Brant Smith of Maple Lane Farms II is effectively controlling the environment, and attempting to be climate change proof. Hydroponics grows produce in super clean, mineral packed water. In these immense greenhouses, Maple Lane can grow bib lettuce, among other things, every single day of the year. "Hydroponics is basically growing in water. We have the nutrients added to the water and providing for the plants everything that they need, Smith explained. There are main advantages of this futuristic farming. "It's a controlled environment so that there are no pests, because were inside. And so we dont use pesticides or fungicides. We are able to provide exactly the nutrients that the plants need so that each and every harvest is perfect. The plants as a third thing would be, I would say almost coddled, to the point that youre getting something with the best taste," Smith said. By using shades and LED lighting, fans to circulate air, and the ability to precisely control the water temperatures, hydroponics can deal with a hotter and wetter world, taking climate change head on. In a warming world, the biggest challenge and cost for hydroponics is keeping the greenhouses cool with massive air conditioners at the same time keeping water temperatures at the optimal growing level. It is a cost that Maple Lane accepts as part of the process, as they try to climate-proof their farm and also look to diversify what they can produce in the future. Connecticut State Police are trying to identify a man accused of following a woman into a bathroom at a Stafford business. The Stafford Resident Troopers said it happened on April 25 around 8 p.m. Anyone who recognizes the suspect pictured above should contact the Stafford Resident Troopers Office 860-684-3777. A New London public school employee has been arrested in connection to an on ongoing police investigation involving criminal activity with a youth, according to police. Officers said 35-year-old Corriche Gaskin, of Groton, was arrested on Tuesday on an active arrest warrant in connection to the investigation. Gaskin is facing charges including sexual assault, possession of child pornography, voyeurism, disseminating voyeuristic materials and multiple counts of risk of injury. His bond is set at $500,000 and he will be in court on Wednesday. Back in April, Gaskin was arrested as a result of "alleged" criminal activity involving a student and was charged with risk of injury to a minor, police said. According to officers, Gaskin is a climate specialist with the New London public school system. He is on paid administrative leave. Anyone who has information concerning the investigation is encouraged to contact New London Police Department's Detective Bureau at (860) 447-1481 or anonymous information may be submitted through the New London Tips 411 system by texting NLPDTip plus the information to Tip411 (8474110. New London Public schools said they are in communication with police and the Department of Children and Families. There will be extra counselors on hand for students at the schools affected. "The District leads with integrity and the highest of standards. As soon as we have received any information from DCF or the New London Police, the District has acted immediately to remove any adults, including Mr. Gaskin, alleged to be involved in the ongoing investigation from District properties. The Districts Administration is working to process these issues related to the employment of involved individuals and is taking all necessary and appropriate actions, including providing employees an opportunity to respond to the allegations, as is required by law," school officials wrote in a statement. Some Uber and Lyft drivers are planning to strike Wednesday, a call that's being answered across the country, including in Connecticut. They plan to turn off the ride-hailing apps during the morning rush hour, and some plan to stop working all day. Theyre fighting for better pay and benefits. If you order a ride on Lyft or Uber, you might see Rosana Olan pull up. I like driving. Thats why I got in, Olan said. But the West Haven woman is growing frustrated behind the wheel. She says in just the last year shes watched her pay per ride drop. We depend on this. So it was no more fun for us, Olan said. Now she and other drivers around the country plan to strike on Wednesday, some from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. while others plan to be out all day. Theyre demanding better pay and treatment from Uber and Lyft, plus for the ride-hailing companies to support a bill that is moving through at the Capitol. Were seeing in the case of Uber and Lyft theyre doing very well, State Sen. Matt Lesser (D Middletown) said. Lesser is a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 989, which among other things would require that drivers keep at least 75-percent of the paid fare. What were trying to do is make sure those folks who are working for Uber get paid a fair wage, a percentage of your fare that is reasonable, fair and protects their rights, Lesser said. In a statement, an Uber spokesman wrote in part: If this bill passed drivers would have to pay as much as $4,500 a year more in insurance costs out of their own pockets, and it would make it significantly harder for people in CT to hail an Uber." Uber also highlighted its incentives for drivers. As for Lyft, a spokesman tells NBC Connecticut, on average drivers make more than twenty bucks an hour and that, We know that access to flexible, extra income makes a big difference for millions of people. Olan says some drivers are already thinking about taking other jobs, especially with fears their pay rates will be cut even more. Im just hoping they can fix this soon, Olan said. This all comes days before Ubers initial public offering, which could value the company upwards of $90-billion. Many drivers feel shortchanged as the companys founders could become very rich. President Donald Trump has pardoned a former U.S. soldier convicted in 2009 of killing an Iraqi prisoner, the White House announced Monday. Trump signed an executive grant of clemency, a full pardon, for former Army 1st Lt. Michael Behenna, of Oklahoma, press secretary Sarah Sanders said. Behenna was convicted of unpremeditated murder in a combat zone after killing a suspected al-Qaida terrorist in Iraq. He was paroled in 2014 and had been scheduled to remain on parole until 2024. A military court had sentenced Behenna to 25 years in prison. However, the Army's highest appellate court noted concern about how the trial court had handled Behenna's claim of self-defense, Sanders said. The Army Clemency and Parole Board also reduced his sentence to 15 years and paroled him as soon as he was eligible. Behenna's case attracted broad support from the military, Oklahoma elected officials and the public, Sanders said. She added that Behenna was a model prisoner while serving his sentence, and "in light of these facts, Mr. Behenna is entirely deserving" of the pardon. Behenna acknowledged during his trial that instead of taking the prisoner home as he was ordered, he took the man to a railroad culvert, stripped him, and then questioned him at gunpoint about a roadside bombing that had killed two members of Behenna's platoon. Behenna, a native of the Oklahoma City suburb of Edmond, said the man moved toward him and he shot him because Behenna thought he would try to take his gun. Oklahoma's attorney general first requested a pardon for Behenna in February 2018 and renewed his request last month. Attorney General Mike Hunter said he believed Behenna's conviction was unjustified because of erroneous jury instructions and the failure of prosecutors to turn over evidence supporting a self-defense claim. What to Know Dwaine Caraway resigned from city council after admitting to taking $450k in bribes, trips, gifts and other items related to DCS scandal. Caraway was sentenced to serve 56 months in prison and pay more than $500,000 in restitution. Caraway had 30 days to report to federal prison after his April 5 sentencing. Former Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Dwaine Caraway began serving his 56-month sentence at a West Texas federal prison Tuesday. Download our local news and weather app for Apple or Android and choose the alerts you want. Caraway was sentenced to serve 56 months in prison in April and ordered to pay more than $500,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to wire fraud conspiracy and tax evasion charges. He admitted accepting more than $400,000 in bribes and kickbacks from the owner of a school bus camera company who also pleaded guilty to federal charges in the scandal surrounding Dallas County Schools (DCS). On Tuesday afternoon, NBC 5 Investigates confirmed Caraway surrendered to authorities at Federal Correctional Institution, Big Spring, a low-security men's prison about 280 miles west of Dallas City Hall not far from Midland-Odessa. A two-year-long NBC 5 Investigation first revealed that Caraway, the second most powerful politician at Dallas City Hall, had received so-called "consulting" payments and a home loan for his father from a man implicated in the DCS scandal. At the time, Caraway denied the money was in exchange for votes. But, he later admitted to federal prosecutors that he knew some of the money was to secure his influence on the city council which voted on an ordinance that allowed the school bus camera company to enter into a multimillion-dollar business deal at DCS. That business arrangement later went bust, putting DCS on the brink on financial collapse. Dallas County voters elected to close the school busing agency in the wake of the corruption scandal. At his sentencing in April, Caraway apologized to his former colleagues and told the court, "I stand before you today embarrassed and ashamed ... I let the poison in under the door and [it] got into my nose," Caraway said. "I look at all of you. I apologize to each and every one of you. I have let a lot of people down." Dwaine Caraway Guilty Plea Dwaine Caraway Resignation Letter In July, Dallas County Schools will be shut down forever. In November 2017 voters acted swiftly to close the 172-year-old agency after more than 100 reports from NBC 5 Investigates revealed corruption and staggering financial mismanagement that cost taxpayers millions of dollars. The number of people in the state who chose to not immunize their children for non-medical reasons has jumped this past school year despite a record-breaking measles outbreak in the U.S., according to a Texas Department of Health Services report. The number of parents who sought exemptions rose 14% in 2018-2019, continuing a 15-year upward trend that public health officials worry leaves communities susceptible to a resurgence of preventable diseases, the Houston Chronicle reported. "Seeing non-medical exemptions increase again on a double-digit scale should create outrage for everyone," Allison Winnike, president and CEO of the Houston-based Immunization Partnership, said in a statement. "It's time for Texans to take action." Measles has been reported in 23 states this year, including Texas. As of Thursday, 764 measles cases were reported -- the most recorded in the nation since 1994. Texas is one of 17 states that permit waivers of school vaccine requirements based on the conscience of parents or their personal values. California, Mississippi and West Virginia are the only states that do not allow exemptions on religious grounds. All 50 states grant exemptions for medical conditions, such as a compromised immune system. The increase in the number of parents choosing to not vaccinate their children is primarily due to massive amounts of misinformation, said Porfirio Villarreal, public information officer for the Houston health department. The number of exemptions in Texas stands at 64,176, representing a roughly 2,000% boost since 2003, when the state started letting parents decline vaccination requirements. In 2003-2004, there were around 3,000. There were slightly fewer than 57,000 in 2017-2018. The report shows that some schools have an opt-out rate of over 40%. "It's unsettling that at a time when measles is returning nationally because of vaccine exemptions, the exemption trend in Texas continues to get worse," said Peter Hotez, a Baylor College of Medicine infectious disease specialist. "It suggests a tone deafness." A woman was taken into custody after leading police on a chase through 10 cities overnight and prompting a SWAT standoff Wednesday morning. Lancaster police attempted to stop the female driver about 1 a.m. for speeding and a headlight, police said. The driver fled police and drove through Dallas, Irving, Grapevine, Southlake, Keller, Westlake, Trophy Club, Roanoke, Northlake and ending in Fort Worth where the driver stopped after tires were spiked, police said. Fort Worth SWAT responded to the scene on State Highway 114 near Texas Motor Speedway due to the driver acting erratically and not complying with officer commands, police said. SWAT took the driver into custody after about an hour without incident, police said. No injuries were reported. It's unclear what charges the driver faces. Her name has not been released. Texas Department of Transportation, Dallas County Sheriff's Office, and the police departments of Dallas, Irving, Grapevine, Keller, Roanoke and Fort Worth all assisted Lancaster police in the incident. A man who was arrested after his 3-year-old son died Friday told police that he repeatedly beat the child with a belt that morning, according to police documents. Michael Holly, 20, was charged with injury to a child after he admitted to "whooping" his son Friday morning before the boy died, according to an arrest-warrant affidavit. The Dallas County medical examiner's office identified the boy as Cameron Tennin. Dallas child abuse detectives were called about 11:45 a.m. Friday to the Dallas Regional Medical Center in Mesquite, where doctors advised them that Cameron had injuries consistent with child abuse, the affidavit stated. You can read the full story from our media partners The Dallas Morning News by clicking here. Lawmakers are considering a bill that could grant Texas homeowners a tax break when their property has been damaged by disasters such as Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Bill sponsor Sen. Paul Bettencourt said it would allow homeowners to challenge unjust property tax bills after a natural disaster, the Houston Chronicle reported. "Nothing makes home and business owners madder than paying full property taxes on a damaged or destroyed property," Bettencourt said. The bill would basically remove cities, counties and other governmental agencies from the disaster reappraisal process. It also includes guidelines on how appraisers must complete the work. Hurricane Harvey caused widespread damage and flooding along the Texas Gulf Coast, with winds speeds topping 130 mph (210 kph). A handful of the more than 200,000 damaged structures were reappraised. In Harris County, which has over 500 taxing districts, just 10 residents agreed to reappraise properties to reflect their post-storm worth, which assisted the owners of 14,000 properties mostly in the Katy and Humble school districts. "Unconscionable," said Bettencourt. In 2017, many of those government agencies said they were concerned about losing tax revenue while facing an epic disaster. Some county officials cautioned that the price of doing reappraisals could cost millions, leading to lost revenue needed to fund police and fire protection. Others said the lack of appraisals wasn't about losing revenue. "All it was, was greed," Galveston County Tax Assessor-Collector Cheryl E. Johnson told Senators in a hearing on the issue in April. Local governments were more worried about the revenues than the owners of 20,000 properties in Galveston County that were severely damaged, Johnson added. While governments can find other income sources, she noted residents have significantly more restrictive options, particularly after losing their homes. The proposal has passed the Senate and the House could vote on it next week. If the bill passes, an alteration in the state constitution would be needed to guarantee the change can be made. The Legislature would then be required to put a ballot item to the public in November. A bartender accused of serving a Plano man who was drunk and went on to kill eight people is getting some surprise support from the mother one of his victims. The bartender, Lindsey Glass, was arrested last week and charged with serving someone who was drunk, a misdemeanor. She faces a year behind bars. "I don't blame that bartender," Debbie Lane said. "I feel badly for her that she has gotten caught up in this vortex because of an evil man." Lane's daughter, Meredith Hight, was just days away from getting divorced from her husband Spencer. She threw a Dallas Cowboys watch party at her home in September 2017 when Spencer Hight showed up and killed her and seven others in one of the worst mass killings in North Texas history. According to her arrest warrant, Hight had come from the bar where Glass worked and surveillance video showed he was intoxicated. Glass sent a text to another bartender, saying, "Spencer has a big knife on the bar and is spinning it and just asked for his tab and said I have to go do some dirty work ... Psychoooooooo." The bartender's attorneys point out she was the first to alert police after following Hight to his wife's house and calling 911 a full five minutes before he started shooting. "It seems like a dangerous precedent to say if you see something out of the ordinary, and then you go and alert someone, 20 months later you are going to be prosecuted," said attorney Rebekah Perlstein. "She did the right thing." His former mother-in-law said the bartender may not have realized how drunk Spencer Hight was. "(He) was a blackout drunk who was very well practiced at pretending he was sober and he was good at it," Lane said. "I believe he fooled her because he fooled us." A Dallas attorney who represents four of the eight victims argues the bartender's arrest was entirely appropriate. The lawyer, Daniel Garrigan, told the Washington Post if Glass had called police earlier or stopped serving the suspect, those killed might still be alive today. Garrigan did not return two phone calls from NBC 5. South Africa: Government welcomes smooth start to Voting Day With Voting Day well underway, government has welcomed the smooth start to the 2019 National and Provincial Elections. In a statement on Wednesday, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said with the millions of South Africans having already cast their vote, is an affirmation of a strong and vibrant democracy. We are encouraged that apart from a few exceptions, voting stations around the country started on time, and issues are being addressed as they arise. The South African Police Service [SAPS], supported by the South African National Defence Force [SANDF] and Metro Police Officers are deployed throughout the country. We commend them for their hard work and dedication, said the GCIS. At a media briefing shortly after midday, the Electoral Commission [IEC] updated the nation on voting that got underway at 7am across the country. The Commission highlighted the high turnout of registered voters who came to cast their vote in the National and Provincial Elections. Government said the vibrant atmosphere at voting stations across the country, is encouraging. We are confident that these elections will build on our history of holding regular, peaceful, and free and fair elections. In addition, government joined the IEC, in encouraging South Africans to keep making their way to voting stations throughout the day and in commending voters for the dignity and patience with which they are conducting themselves. As part of the control measures of the election process, every ballot paper has to have a validation stamp at the back. Voters are encouraged to ensure that their national and provincial ballot is stamped. Government also sent its condolences to the families of those who have since passed on. Government wishes to convey our deepest sympathy to the family and loved ones of the IEC official who passed away last night, and of the 67-year-old man who died in Tshwane while making his way to a voting station. We also wish to express condolences to the IFP after one of their members passed away in a car crash in KwaZulu-Natal, said the GCIS. Government urged elderly voters to approach electoral officers at their voting stations so that they can be ushered to the front of the queue. To avoid medical emergencies, voters joining queues are advised to take precautions such as drinking water to remain hydrated and should take their prescription medicines. Documentation As voting continues, government reminded citizens that all Home Affairs offices are open today until 9pm to assist citizens with the necessary documents for voting. Meanwhile, the department has confirmed that the total number of temporary IDs issued between 6 May 2019 and midday today was standing at 14 292. Voters can call the Home Affairs on 0800 6011 90 toll free for more information. Make your X Government reiterated its call that even though voting stations are open until 9pm, voters should take advantage of this public holiday to visit voting stations earlier and throughout the day to avoid bottlenecks near closing time. South Africans who have not yet voted were encouraged to make their way to their voting stations. GCIS acting Director-General Phumla Williams encouraged all South Africans to go and cast their vote. Government encourages all South Africans, especially young and first-time voters, to exercise their democratic right to vote. We call on all South Africans to honour our history and continue to strengthen the legitimacy of our democracy. - SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. UPDATED Times have changed for charter schools in Washington. The House appropriations bill crafted by Democrats would cut $40 million from the federal charter school grant program . The bill was released at the end of last month, although the cut to charter school grants was not part of the initial bill language or summary released by the House appropriations subcommittee that oversees the U.S. Department of Educations budget. Right now, charter schools get $440 million from the Education Department in fiscal 2019, meaning the bill would cut nearly 10 percent from the grants. Keep in mind, however, that Congress (including Democratic lawmakers) has approved a relatively small increase for charter schools during the Trump administration. So just because House Democrats want to slash aid to charters doesnt mean its a done deal. The House appropriations committee will hold a hearing on the bill Wednesday, after the subcommittee reported the bill favorably to the full comittee last week. Trump wants $500 million for charters, a $60 million increase, in fiscal 2020, which starts Oct. 1. But in March, during a hearing on the Trump administrations proposed budget, Democrats on that House subcommittee blasted the proposals to increase aid to school choice, including charter schools. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn., the subcommittee chairwoman, was particularly sharp in her critiques of the departments charter school aid. President Barack Obama supported charter schools, and some Democratslike Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, a 2020 presidential candidatestill do. But elsewhere, antipathy toward charters among Democrats and progressives has grown as a political force, particularly during Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos tenure at the department. While its disappointing to see Democrats move against charter schools in this way, the bill itself contains several good provisions for charters, said Charles Barone, the chief policy officer at Democrats for Education Reform, which supports charters. It is nice to see Democrats investing more overall in education, Barone said, referencing the $4.4 billion funding increase the legislation seeks for the Education Department that includes more money for programs like Title I. Charter schools benefit from those programs too. The Senate, which is controlled by Republicans, has yet to release its Education Department funding bill. Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 . And follow the Andrew Ujifusa half of Politics K-12 @AndrewUjifusa . Tired but beaming, Meghan and Prince Harry showed the public their baby son's face for the first time on Wednesday, and also revealed his name: Archie. The royal couple said their son, seventh in line to the British throne, is named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. They have not chosen a grander title for the baby, who is not a prince but could have been named a lord. The announcement came hours after the proud parents posed for cameras, helping to satisfy a huge global appetite for images and details about their newborn son. Meghan said that being a mother is "magic" and that her baby has "just been a dream," adding, "I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy." Harry held the boy next to his wife as they posed for the cameras in a vast hall at Windsor Castle. He said that "parenting is amazing" and that he and Meghan have loved spending time with their new baby in his first few days. "We're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy and be able to spend some precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up," Harry said. It's the public's first look at the healthy boy whose birth early Monday morning caused a sensation on both sides of the Atlantic. The family didn't immediately offer answers to many of the remaining questions about Baby Sussex, chief among them what his name is. Harry had said Monday he and Meghan are "thinking" about names, and Britain's legal bookmakers reported high interest Tuesday in the names Alexander, James and Arthur. The royal family also hasn't said what his British title will be or whether the baby will be an American citizen. Meghan and Harry are still figuring out which parent he looks like. "His looks are changing every single day, so who knows," Harry said. The new arrival is the eighth great-grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II, who smiled when asked about the baby's arrival at a luncheon Tuesday. The baby boy is the first of her great-grandchildren to have an American parent. His mother Meghan is the daughter of a white man and a black woman, bringing a biracial heritage to the House of Windsor. Meghan and Harry were taking the baby to meet Elizabeth on Wednesday after their appearance before the cameras. "It'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family," Meghan said, adding that her mother had come along with them. Prince William, Harry's older brother, joked Tuesday that he will be glad "to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parenting!" Harry had hinted Monday that he and his wife may show off the baby on Wednesday, telling reporters, "I think we'll be seeing you guys in probably two days' time as planned as a family ... so that everyone can see the baby." The prince was "over the moon" in that first, solo appearance after the baby's birth, saying he was "so incredibly proud" of Meghan and that his first child is "absolutely to die for." President Donald Trump said Sunday that special counsel Robert Mueller should not testify before Congress, abandoning his previous declaration that he would leave that decision to his attorney general. Escalating tensions with House Democrats as they seek to bring Mueller before the House Judiciary Committee, Trump tweeted: "Bob Mueller should not testify. No redos for the Dems!" Democrats are seeking more information about Mueller's report on his Russia investigation. Senate Judiciary Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., has said he doesn't plan to invite Mueller to testify on the report. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office last week that testimony from Mueller was "up to our attorney general." William Barr has said he has no objection to Mueller testifying. Trump again asserted on Twitter Sunday that Mueller's report revealed "NO COLLUSION" and argued that there was "NO OBSTRUCTION." On collusion, Mueller said he did not assess whether that occurred because it is not a legal term. He looked into a potential criminal conspiracy between Russia and the Trump campaign and said the investigation did not collect sufficient evidence to establish criminal charges on that front. Mueller didn't charge Trump with obstruction but wrote that he couldn't exonerate him, either. Trump did not indicate if he would take any steps to block Mueller, who is a Justice Department employee. The president tweeted Sunday after a Democrat on the committee said he was hopeful Mueller would testify, noting that May 15 has been proposed. Rhode Island Rep. David Cicilline told "Fox News Sunday" that "we hope the special counsel will appear" at that time and that "we think the American people have a right to hear directly from him." Cicilline later tweeted that "nothing has been agreed to yet." The House Judiciary Committee chairman, Democratic Rep. Jerrold Nadler of New York, said last week the committee was "firming up the date" for Mueller's testimony and hoping it would be May 15. Cicilline said on Fox that "obviously until the date comes, we never have an absolute guarantee" and in his tweet later, said that "we hope the Special Counsel" will agree to the proposed date for his testimony. Spokespeople for the Justice Department and Mueller declined to comment on Cicilline's remarks and on Trump's tweet. Democratic lawmakers expressed their displeasure with Trump's position. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer tweeted, in part: "Now he's trying to silence Mueller. For a man who constantly proclaims his innocence, @realDonaldTrump is acting awfully guilty. Mueller must testify publicly before Congress." Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff, the chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, noted in a tweet that Trump's opposition to Mueller testifying follows his opposition to having a former White House counsel testify. "Barr's testimony alone designed to protect Trump isn't going to cut it. They will testify. The American people deserve the truth," said Schiff, who has previously stated that he would like Mueller to appear before his panel. What to Know Meghan Markle gave birth to a baby boy Monday morning. The baby, who has not yet been named, weighs 7 pounds, 3 ounces, and palace officials say he was born at 5:26 a.m. The child is seventh in line to the British throne Britain's Duchess of Sussex gave birth to a baby boy Monday morning and both Meghan and the baby are "doing well," Buckingham Palace confirmed. The baby, who has not yet been named, weighs 7 pounds, 3 ounces, and palace officials say he was born at 5:26 a.m. Monday. He is seventh in line for the British throne and is Queen Elizabeth II's eighth great-grandchild. We are pleased to announce that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex welcomed their firstborn child in the early morning on May 6th, 2019. Their Royal Highnesses son weighs 7lbs. 3oz, a statement from Meghan and Harry's official Instagram account said. "The Duchess and baby are both healthy and well, and the couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives. More details will be shared in the forthcoming days. This is the first child for the former Meghan Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, and seventh in line to the British throne. Moments after the birth was announced Prince Harry spoke to reporters outside Windsor Castle. The prince says he is "over the moon" about the birth of their first child and "incredibly proud" of his wife. "Im very excited to announced that Meghan and myself had a baby boy this morning, a very healthy boy. Mother and baby are doing incredibly well," he said." Its been the most amazing experience I can ever possibly imagine. How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension but were both absolutely thrilled and so grateful for all the love and support from everybody out there. Its been amazing so we just wanted to share this with everybody." The baby will be a first cousin to nearly 1-year-old Prince Louis, 3-year-old Princess Charlotte and 5-year-old Prince George, the children of Prince William and Kate, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Lady Jane Fellowes, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Earl Spencer have been informed and are delighted with the news, according to Buckingham Palace. The Duchesss mother, Doria Ragland, who is overjoyed by the arrival of her first grandchild, is with Their Royal Highnesses at Frogmore Cottage. "Baby Sussex" will be eligible for dual U.S.-U.K. citizenship, assuming Meghan has not renounced her American citizenship. Traditionally, the birth of a royal baby is accompanied by the pealing of bells at Westminster Abbey and a gun salute in London's Hyde Park. Officials have said that the landmark London Eye observation wheel on the banks of the River Thames will be lit in red, white and blue to mark the baby's birth. Those are the colors of Britain's familiar Union Flag. Royal newborns aren't automatically given the title of prince or princess; Queen Elizabeth II had to issue a rule declaring that all of William and Kate's children would have the title, and she'd need to do the same for Harry and Meghan's children. The new arrival is the eighth great-grandchild of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. Baby Sussex will be seventh in the line of succession, one spot behind father Prince Harry. Kensington Palace announced in October that Meghan was pregnant with her first child, just after arriving in Australia with Prince Harry for their first royal tour together. The 37-year-old former actress married Harry on May 19, 2018, in St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle to global fanfare. The couple was married for five months before the announcement of their "Spring 2019" baby. Harry and Meghan have asked people who want to send them baby gifts to instead donate to selected charities for children and parents in need. They mentioned several charities in particular, including The Lunchbox Fund, WellChild, Baby2Baby and Little Village, which all have different connections to the royal couple. A private executive jet flying from Las Vegas with three crew members and 10 passengers crashed in northern Mexico over the weekend and there did not appear to be any survivors, authorities said Monday. An air search located the plane's wreckage in a remote mountainous area in the municipality of Ocampo on Monday, the Coahuila state government said in a statement. "There were no survivors seen," the statement said. Personnel from the public safety department and prosecutor's office were making their way to the site. The cause of the crash was under investigation. The jet left Las Vegas on Sunday afternoon and had been expected that evening in the northern Mexican city of Monterrey, but it never arrived, prompting a search. Flight controllers lost contact with the plane over Coahuila. Officials did not release the identities of those aboard. Local media reported that the passengers were returning from a weekend trip that included seeing the Saul "Canelo" Alvarez fight on the Las Vegas Strip. Mexico's civil aviation authority said it and other agencies had begun recovering bodies and what remained of the plane Monday. The plane was registered to Utah-based TVPX, listed as an insurance, customs and trust company. The company declined to comment on who was operating the plane. A Southern California woman who survived the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history at the Route 91 music festival in Las Vegas defied the odds again after surviving a shark attack in Hawaii. What's more, even after the shark left 70 staples and 50 stitches in Kimberly Bishop's leg, she said she won't let this stop her from getting back in the ocean. A month ago, Kimberly and her husband, also named Kim, were kayaking in Anaehoomalu Bay, near Waikoloa on vacation at their home on the Big Island. "That particular day, there was no wind. The water was smooth, and we said, 'let's go out. It will be a great day for an adventure,'" Kimberly, 65, recalls while flashing a megawatt smile. "I didn't see a thing. It was clear all the way to the bottom." Suddenly, something knocked her kayak right over. "I felt something like a truck hit my kayak and flip it over completely. I flipped over toward whatever had hit me, and immediately felt a chomp on my leg," she said. Even though she didn't see it, she knew: It was a shark. Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources spokesman Dan Dennison would later reportedly say it was likely a 5-foot black tip reef shark. Kim thinks it was closer to 8 feet long. She started shouting, and her husband jumped into action to help. "As soon as I heard her, I turned to see what was going on, and I caught her just as she was flipping into the water," the victim's husband said. "I saw it right next to her, behind her. She couldn't see it was behind her, but I could see the two fins. It was big." He estimates the fins were 12 inches out of the shallow surface of the water. Kim said after a neighbor retrieved his wife's kayak, he noticed bite marks on the side. He thinks the shark attacked the kayak first, rather than just bumped into it. Kim said his wife was coherent the whole time, so at first he thought she was brushed by the shark. But Kimberly knew better. "It was a big animal," Kimberly said. The diameter of the bite is about a foot long, by measuring the jagged scars on her leg. Kimberly said she didn't immediately feel pain, and wasn't bleeding profusely. She said while she doesn't remember a lot, she does remember people carrying her in the kayak, and them telling her she was being airlifted to the hospital. "And I remember my husband saying, 'You finally get your helicopter ride,'" she said with a laugh. She also asked her rescuers if she could at least sit up to look out the window of the helicopter, to which they replied "no." Her husband Kim had previously said no to a helicopter tour of the Big Island because helicopters make him nervous. She was taken into emergency surgery with a doctor who was treating her as his sixth shark attack patient overall. She was also put on IV for a few days to ensure there was no infection. Remarkably, she said she felt no pain, and didn't even take a Tylenol after anesthesia wore off. She thanked those who came to her rescue after she recovered. "I don't think it intended to hurt me. I don't think it was trying to eat me. I think it thought I was something else," Kimberly said. She also said she doesn't think odds are it will happen again. She said the trauma of the bite was nowhere near as horrifying and life-altering as her experience at the Route 91 festival, where a gunman opened fire from a tower suite at the Mandalay Bay on a crowd of 22,000 below, killing 58 people. "This experience of the shark bite thing, I mean it was an interesting story... but it's not nearly the same kind of trauma as Route 91. I was at Route 91. Thankfully, my daughter, my friend and I were not injured. But I shout out to the Route 91 family, because some of them are still going through some real trauma," she said. President Donald Trump's Iran policy has been rooted in the idea that being tougher on Tehran would yield better results and perhaps even a new nuclear deal to replace the Obama administration pact that he pulled the U.S. out of a year ago Wednesday. That strategy is now being put to the test as tension escalates between Washington and Tehran, even as both sides appear willing to negotiate an end to the standoff. Iran threatened to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for the 2015 nuclear deal. It follows the Trump administration's "maximum pressure" campaign of diplomatic and economic measures that have exacted a punishing toll on the Islamic Republic. The effort has been a success in the view of the president and senior officials of his administration. "Because of our action, the Iranian regime is struggling to fund its campaign of violent terror, as its economy heads into an unprecedented depression, government revenue dries up, and inflation spirals out of control," Trump said Wednesday as he announced yet another round of sanctions, this time targeting the country's metals industry. The test is whether Iran will return to the bargaining table and agree to the new terms set by the Trump administration. The stakes couldn't be higher, as shown by the U.S. decision over the weekend to rush an aircraft carrier group and other military assets to the Middle East to confront an unspecified Iranian threat. Democrats used Iran's announcement as an opportunity to criticize Trump for withdrawing from the deal. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., called it a sign of "blind, meandering, escalatory" foreign policy. "Iran's moves to restart their nuclear program are a direct consequence of the Trump administration withdrawing from the Iran deal," said Murphy, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Despite Iran's announced deadline to pull out of the remainder of the nuclear deal, there have been signs that Tehran is willing to talk. Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said during a visit to New York last month that he thinks Trump wants to deal but is trying an antagonistic approach at the direction of senior aides and Middle Eastern allies. "Try the language of respect," he urged him, pretending to address the president directly. "It won't kill you, believe me." Trump himself says he's ready to talk. "We call on the regime to abandon its nuclear ambitions, change its destructive behavior, respect the rights of its people and return in good faith to the negotiating table," he said in announcing the new sanctions. Brian Hook, U.S. envoy to Iran, told reporters at the State Department that the U.S. laid out 12 demands last year for a new Iran deal and an end to the Trump administration's maximum pressure campaign. They include an end to all uranium enrichment, ceasing all support for militant groups in the Middle East and the release of all U.S. citizens detained in Iran on what the administration considers illegitimate grounds. The United States, Germany, Britain, France, Russia, China and the European Union signed the 2015 deal with Iran, which lifted international sanctions in exchange for Tehran limiting its nuclear program, including restricting uranium enrichment for 10 years. On May 8, 2018, Trump pulled out of the agreement, which he called "the worst deal in history." He said the accord should also have restrained Iran's ballistic missile program and curbed Tehran's malign activities in the region and support for terror networks. The administration then re-imposed the sanctions on Iran that had been lifted when the agreement went into force. The administration sees its move as a success. Deprived of much of its oil revenue, Iran cut its overall military spending by 28% after reaching a peak in 2017, Hook said. Inflation has risen in the Islamic Republic and the economy is in recession, forecast to shrink by 3%, while global oil prices haven't budged even as Iranian crude has been largely taken out of the market, production at a historic low. "We have made our focus around diplomatic isolation and economic pressure," he said. "That policy is working." The other nations who signed the nuclear deal negotiated by the Obama administration have remained in the pact and have tried to provide Iran with enough economic incentives to keep the agreement alive. Complaining that it has not reaped the economic benefits it expected from signing the deal, Iran on Wednesday threatened to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms. Iran stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step something required under the deal. In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran said it would increase its enrichment of uranium beyond 3.67%, which is permitted by the accord. "Zarif today is doing what Zarif does very well, which is setting the table for negotiations because I think the Iranians are now realizing that they may not be able to wait Trump out," said Mark Dubowitz, chief executive of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and a critic of the deal. "The economy is in such bad shape and getting worse that they may experience a massive economic crisis before January 2021," when either Trump starts a second term or a new American president takes office. "I think Zarif can't wait to get back to the table," Dubowitz said. The heightened tension over Iran's nuclear program comes just after the U.S. dispatched the USS Lincoln aircraft carrier and bombers to the Persian Gulf in response to intelligence reports warning Iran was going to strike U.S. assets, interests or allies. Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told a Senate appropriations subcommittee Wednesday that intelligence threats the U.S. began receiving last week "really intensified" by the end of the week. He said the U.S. "sent some messages" to Tehran, but did not provide any details. Traveling in London, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo issued a restrained response to Iran's announcement. He said America "will wait and observe" what Iran does next. "They have made a number of statements about actions they have threatened to do in order to get the world to jump," Pompeo said. Tim Morrison, senior director for weapons of mass destruction under national security adviser John Bolton at the White House, was more critical of Iran's threat to violate the nuclear deal. "Let's be clear," he said. "This is nothing less than nuclear blackmail." What to Know Bonin's attorney said Bonin was remorseful and that her ex-boyfriend had been physically and emotionally abusive. A Florida woman who set her ex-boyfriend's house on fire and stabbed a deputy has been sentenced to a year and a day in prison. The Daytona Beach News-Journal reports 27-year-old Brittany Bonin was sentenced Monday after pleading no contest to charges including of first-degree arson and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. She'll get credit for 314 days spent in county jail, meaning she'll serve another 52 in state prison. Authorities say Bonin set fire to her ex-boyfriend's Edgewater home in 2017. The ex-boyfriend went to get help from a neighbor, who was a captain with the Volusia County Sheriff's Office. The neighbor called 911 and reported that Bonin stabbed him in the lower back while he was trying to restrain her. Bonin's attorney said Bonin was remorseful and that her ex-boyfriend had been physically and emotionally abusive. What to Know A witness told NBC 6 he saw a man getting out of his vehicle and another man showing up and shooting the victim twice. Miami police are searching for a subject in a shooting that killed a man after he was rushed to the hospital Tuesday afternoon. Officers responded at around 4 p.m. to the area of Northwest 2nd Avenue and 59th Street regarding a male shot. He was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he later passed away. Police haven't released the victim's identity. A witness told NBC 6 he saw a man getting out of his vehicle and another man showing up and shooting the victim twice. Anyone with information should call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. What to Know Dr. Marta Elena Farinas, 48, was booked into the Miami-Dade jail Tuesday on manslaughter and other charges A South Florida doctor is facing manslaughter and other charges after one of her patients died of an opioid overdose, authorities said. Dr. Marta Elena Farinas, 48, was booked into the Miami-Dade jail Tuesday on charges of manslaughter, conspiracy to traffic in oxycodone and delivery of oxycodone, records showed. NBC 6 Investigators were there when agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration took Farinas into custody at her office off South Dixie Highway in Palmetto Bay Tuesday. Federal agents escorted the doctor out from her second floor office in handcuffs and transported her to the County Jail, where she was being held on a $100,000 bond Wednesday. Attorney information wasn't available. According to a news release from Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, the victim was found unresponsive when Monroe County deputies responded to a call in Key Largo back on March 13. Deputies found a prescription bottle of oxycodone on the nightstand next to the victim's bed with a label that indicated Farinas has prescribed the medication a day earlier, officials said. A toxicology report found that the cause of death involved the mixture of alprazolam and oxycodone, authorities said. The victim was a nurse and mother of two. Prosecutors say Dr. Farinas "overprescribed" oxycodone prescriptions for the patient, who had "no legitimate medical purpose" for having the drug. Court documents showed Farinas often prescribed 120 to 180 pills at a time for the patient. Not only did Farinas prescribe high amounts of oxycodone for patients, prosecutors said the doctors patient would then give a portion of the pills back to the doctor to feed her own addiction and to sell to others. A doctor cannot prescribe pain meds for themselves. Court documents showed the patient would communicate with the doctor and ask for pills through text messages. Those texts also appear to show the doctor asking for pills back in return for the prescription. Prosecutors said the doctors boyfriend also overdosed in May of 2018. Police said Farinas had prescribed drugs to her boyfriend and some of his friends. A latest report from the Florida Department of Health shows oxycodone deaths decreased by 16 percent from 2016 to 2017. In 2017, 1,282 people died statewide due to an oxycodone related death. Many of those were found to have a mixture of drugs in their systems. In 2017, 197 people died in Miami Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties. Farinas' arrest took place after a year-long investigation between the DEA, the Monroe County Sheriffs Office and Miami-Dade Police. Nicole Batista is a 9-year-old girl who packs a whole lot of personality. But something was causing her severe health problems since birth, even requiring her to have open heart surgery at just 17 days old. "If it wasn't for the oxygen, you would see her and say, 'Why is she here?' She looks like a normal, perfectly healthy baby. But inside, it's a different story," said her mother, Yuneisy Perez. Nicole's medical mystery led Dr. Mustafa Tekin and his team at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine to search for a diagnosis to her unidentified illness. The medical school is now one of five academic sites across the nation to join the National Institute of Health's Undiagnosed Disease Network. The team at UM was able to dig deeper into Nicole DNA's and uncovered a unique mutation in one of her genes, called ACTA-2. The ailment is savagely attacking Nicole's eyes, brain, heart, lungs and bladder and could even lead to a stroke. Now scientists have a name for this newly identified disease. "That condition was a new, previously unrecognized disease or disorder, which is called Systemic Smoother Muscle Dysfunction Syndrome," he said. Nicole is now part of a program at the Center for Genome Technology at the Miller School of Medicine, where advanced disease detectives search for clues hiding inside DNA, hunting for unknown and, at times, incurable diseases. "With rare disease we are always limited to a small number of patients, and that's why the diagnosis makes the big step. And in the long run what is important is to figure out the underlying biology," Dr. Tekin said. Nicole's mother is thankful she was able to get answer's to her daughter's mystery condition. "I'm from Cuba, and I always say that if she was born in Cuba, she wouldn't be here," she said. Like many kids her age, Nicole has always wanted to go to Disney World, but for the last several years her doctors barred her from going because of the germs lurking in crowded places. "So for her, the danger is in infection. Earlier she had a common cold and then that led to severe respiratory failure and that's why that's dangerous for her," Dr. Tekin said. But two weeks ago, Nicole's dream came true and the family took a trip to visit Disney. Dr. Tekin and his team continue to treat Nicole and search for answers her rare disease and others. Meanwhile Nicole's mom hopes for a cure so this little girl with the sparkling personality can one day lead the life she truly deserves. "Keep being joyful," she said. "Grow up old, have her own family and fulfill all her dreams. That's what any mother would want." If you'd like to learn more about the Undiagnosed Disease Network, call to make an appointment at 305-243-6006 or visit their website. What to Know A 9-month-old Queens baby who was found foaming at the mouth last year died of abusive head trauma, the medical examiner's office said 9-month-old Veto Garcia was at his babysitter's home when he had a seizure and began foaming at the mouth The childs babysitter, 22-year-old Ronita Singh, was arrested and charged with assault. It's not clear if the charges will be upgraded A 9-month-old Queens baby who was found foaming at the mouth last year died of abusive head trauma, the medical examiner's office said. Veto Garcia was at his babysitters South Ozone Park home on June 14, 2018, when he suffered a seizure. He was rushed to Jamaica Hospital and later transferred to Cohen Childrens Medical Center, where he died on June 17. The childs babysitter, 22-year-old Ronita Singh, was arrested at the time and charged with assault for her alleged role in the childs death. The medical examiner's office ruled the child's death a homicide last week. It wasn't immediately clear if the charges were upgraded after the homicide ruling. An investigation is ongoing. What to Know Startling never-before-seen footage of the savage machete attack in a Bronx bodega last summer was presented by prosecutors The footage was presented on day 2 of the trial for 5 suspects charged with the brutal murder of 15-year-old Lesandro Junior Guzman-Feliz A witness continued her second day of testimony describing how she tried to keep the young boy alive by talking to him Startling never-before-seen footage of the savage machete attack in a Bronx bodega last summer that claimed the life of a 15-year-old boy was presented by prosecutors on Tuesday, a day after the trial for five suspects charged with his brutal murder kicked off. The second day of trial in the killing of Lesandro Junior Guzman-Feliz was emotional and filled with graphic video and photos. Prosecutors introduced three clips of video. Two of the clips were taken by cell phone and show Guzman-Feliz outside the hospital and a high angle shot of the attack. The third clip is surveillance video outside the hospital. One such graphic video presented was from the NYPD camera at the corner of Bathgate and 183rd Street in the Bronx a corner that now bears Guzman-Feliz's name. The footage, which was never released publicly, shows the attack. The video showcases the attackers dragging Guzman-Feliz out of the bodega as he tries to fight back as the mob swings knives at him. The graphic footage prompted Guzman-Felizs mother and several supporters to break down a gasp was even heard in the courtroom. Guzman-Felizs vicious killing shocked not only the city, but the nation, for its caught-on-camera brutality. For a second day, a witness detailed more of Guzman-Felizs final moments. The witness took the stand testifying how she tried to keep Guzman-Feliz alive by talking to him, adding that her friend took off their shirt in an effort to help stop the bleeding. Defense attorneys subsequently cross examined the witness in an effort to test her memory. The much-anticipated trial kicked off Monday with opening statements during which prosecutors described the teen's killing as a calculated and planned murder by the five suspects. Five defense attorneys also spoke Monday, four of whom described most of Guzman-Feliz's wounds as superficial and said it was the one cut to the throat that killed him. The defense attorney for the man who allegedly dealt that throat cut took offense at that. On Monday, a witness, the same that continued her testimony Tuesday, said she watched the attack from an apartment window and ran downstairs to try to help. She described, in heartbreaking detail, how Guzman-Feliz looked up at her after the attack and motioned her to call 911. He only said one word -- "water," she testified. Following her testimony Monday, it came to light that the district attorney's office placed the witness in protective custody after her name was released by some media outlets. Jury selection proceedings started last month for five suspected gang members, the first of 14 to stand trial, facing murder charges in the June 2018 attack on Guzman-Feliz, who prosecutors have said was cut down at just 15 years old in an apparent case of mistaken identity. Investigators say the group mistook Guzman-Feliz, who was not affiliated with any gang, for a member of the rival fraction of the Trinitarios gang. In total, more than a dozen suspects have been arrested in connection to the killing. Nine others charged in the killing are awaiting trial. The attack on Guzman-Feliz was captured on video; he was dragged outside the bodega and set upon by a gang of men who hacked at him as he struggled to defend himself. The boy was slashed in the neck and died after running to a hospital three blocks away. Guzman-Feliz had been part of the NYPD's Explorers program, a group for youths interested in a law enforcement career. The New York City Police Foundation announced it planned to set up a scholarship in his name. Since the violent attack, the communitys outpouring of love and support has been seen in a mural. Guzman-Felizs memory has also been honored through the renaming of a street and a summer camp at a state park, as well as prompting the Safe Haven Bodega program in the city. What to Know The House Judiciary Committee is moving ahead with a vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress Pregnancy-related deaths are rising in the United States and the main risk factor is being black, according to new reports Dave Chappelle will receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has announced Get the top headlines of the day in your morning briefing from NBC 4 New York, Monday through Friday. Sign up for our newsletter here. House Judiciary Panel Poised to Hold William Barr in Contempt The House Judiciary Committee is moving ahead with a vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress after last-minute negotiations stalled with the Justice Department over access to the full, unredacted version of special counsel Robert Mueller's report. Barr released a redacted version of Mueller's report to the public last month, but Democrats said they want to see the full document, along with underlying evidence, and subpoenaed for the full report. The department has rejected that demand, while allowing a handful of lawmakers to view a version of Mueller's report with fewer redactions. Democrats have so far said they won't view that version until they get broader access. With the contempt vote looming Wednesday, staff members from the House Judiciary Committee met with Justice Department officials on Tuesday afternoon. Negotiations went into the evening as the two sides traded offers on how many lawmakers would be able to view the report, how many staff, and whether the department would work with the committee to gain access to secret grand jury material. But they stalled late Tuesday evening when the two sides couldn't agree on any of those terms. Students Kill Classmate, Injure 8 at School Near Columbine Two high school students shot and killed a classmate and injured eight others at a charter school in a Colorado community that marked the 20th anniversary of one of the nation's worst school shootings just weeks ago. Douglas County sheriff's officials said Devon Erickson, 18, and a younger student walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch Tuesday afternoon and opened fire on students in two classrooms, prompting students to run shouting through the halls or to hide out of sight as gunfire echoed through school. Within minutes, deputies at a nearby sheriff's department substation entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. Both were students at the school and they were not previously known to authorities, Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. Josh Dutton, 18, told The Associated Press that he was close friends with Devon Erickson in middle school but hadn't seen him for four years as he went to a different high school. On Sunday, he spotted Erickson at a local light rail station and said he was shocked at how much his friend had changed. Iran Inches Away From Nuclear Deal Amid US Sanctions Iran's president said it will stop exporting excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program as stipulated by the 2015 atomic accord and set a 60-day deadline for new terms to the deal before it will resume higher uranium enrichment. Hassan Rouhani's address to the nation came on the anniversary of President Trump's decision to withdraw America from the landmark agreement. Rouhani said Iran wanted to negotiate new terms with remaining partners in the deal, but acknowledged that the situation was dire. "We felt that the nuclear deal needs a surgery and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective," Rouhani said. "This surgery is for saving the deal, not destroying it." The 2015 deal saw sanctions on Iran lifted in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. After the U.S. withdrew from the accord it restored crippling sanctions on Iran, exacerbating a severe economic crisis. US Pregnancy Deaths Are Up, Especially Among Minorities Pregnancy-related deaths are rising in the United States and the main risk factor is being black, according to new reports that highlight racial disparities in care during and after childbirth. Black women, along with Native Americans and Alaska natives, are three times more likely to die before, during or after having a baby, and more than half of these deaths are preventable, the report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concludes. Although these deaths are rare about 700 a year they have been rising for decades. "An American mom today is 50% more likely to die in childbirth than her own mother was," said Dr. Neel Shah, a Harvard Medical School obstetrician. Separately, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists released new guidelines saying being black is the greatest risk factor for these deaths. The guidelines say women should have a comprehensive heart-risk evaluation 12 weeks after delivery, but up to 40% of women don't return for that visit and payment issues may be one reason. Dave Chappelle to Be Awarded Mark Twain Prize for American Humor Dave Chappelle will receive the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has announced. The Kennedy Center said it had chosen Chappelle, the co-creator and star of Chappelles Show, as the 22nd recipient of the annual honor. Dave is the embodiment of Mark Twains observation that against the assault of humor, nothing can stand," Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter said in a statement. "For three decades, Dave has challenged us to see hot-button issues from his entirely original yet relatable perspective. The standup comic, actor, producer and director will become the latest of a prestigious group of comedians to receive the award, including Carol Burnett, Eddie Murphy, Whoopi Goldberg, Bob Newhart and Richard Pryor, who was the first to be awarded the Twain Prize in 1998. A 4-year-old Texas girl whose stepfather reported she was abducted over the weekend had been removed from the family home months earlier because of allegations of abuse but was later returned, a child protection agency said Tuesday. The history of alleged abuse in Maleah Davis' home emerged as police raise questions about her stepfather's account of the girl's abduction, and as volunteers and law enforcement officials continue to search for her following a Sunday Amber Alert. Stepfather Darion Vence reported Maleah missing Saturday night while he was hospitalized in Sugar Land, a suburb about 22 miles southwest of Houston. He told investigators she was abducted more than 24-hours earlier by men in a pickup truck who beat him but then let him and his 2-year-old son go free, according to Houston police. But during his initial interview with Sugar Land police, Vence's "story changed several times," according to a department spokesman. "His story just didn't add up," Sugar Land police spokesman Doug Adolph told The Associated Press. Months before Vence reported her missing, Maleah was removed from the home where Vence also lived by state workers concerned about allegations of abuse, Child Protective Services spokeswoman Tiffani Butler said. Agency investigators began looking into the Houston household after Maleah's head was injured, eventually leading to her having multiple brain surgeries, Butler said. She declined to elaborate on the injury. In August, the girl and her 5- and 1-year-old brothers were removed from the home and placed in the care of relatives, Butler said. The children were returned home in February but officially remained in state custody and were checked on by a caseworker each month, she said. Sugar Land police largely handed the case off to Houston police after Vence's initial interview, Adolph said. On Sunday, Houston police Sgt. Mark Holbrook said Vence told investigators that he was driving to George Bush Intercontinental Airport around 9 p.m. Friday to pick up Maleah's mother when he pulled over suspecting he had a flat tire. Vence said men in a pickup truck then pulled up behind him, according to Holbrook. Vence told police that one of the men knocked him out and they abducted him, his 2-year-old son and Maleah. Vence said he was in and out of consciousness until coming fully awake almost a day later, on the side of the road with his son but not Maleah, Holbrook said. Vence said he then walked to a hospital in Sugar Land, arriving around 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. on Saturday, and reported the girl missing, Holbrook said. A Houston police spokesman declined to comment Tuesday on Adolph's characterization of Vence's story and referred a reporter to a tweet saying it does not identify suspects or persons of interest unless charges are filed. A phone message left at a number listed for Vence was not returned Tuesday. Associated Press researcher Randy Herschaft contributed to this report. A Delaware County, Pennsylvania, school principal will no longer say "God bless America" after leading students in the Pledge of Allegiance. Peter Brigg's practice at Sabold Elementary School in Springfield led at least one parent to complain to the Freedom for Religion Foundation, whose attorney contacted the district. The group claimed it violated the U.S. Constitution's prohibition of government sponsoring religious messages. The district decided to cease the practice after consulting with its lawyer. In a statement, the district says it is not prohibiting students from reciting "God bless America" after the pledge on their own. "To be clear, the District has not altered the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and has not prohibited students from deciding on their own, as their own form of self-expression, whether or not to state the words, 'God Bless America' (or any other appropriate form of self-expression) upon completing the Pledge of Allegiance," the Springfield School District said. The Freedom for Religion Foundation says "young elementary school children don't need to be coerced into affirming God's name every morning." "We understand that this is an important topic for many of our constituents; however, please understand that the district does not make the law. We follow it," the district said. What to Know PATCO is halting its planned changes to overnight Owl Service between South Jersey and Philadelphia. The agency cited safety as a big reason for having fewer overnight trains and stops. The agency is now looking for community feedback before releasing a new plan to be implemented in June. Attention PATCO riders, your overnight service isn't changing just yet. PATCO is delaying its plans to cut overnight Owl Service after outcry over how the plan was announced, including the Delaware River Port Authority not speaking with leaders of communities that would no longer be served by early morning trains. Collingswood Mayor Jim Maley expressed concern that leaders weren't told of the changes that would leave their towns without overnight service. "My initial reaction is that it makes no sense, I don't get how it's a safety issue," Maley said Tuesday. DRPA CEO and PATCO president John Hanson took responsibility for not alerting local officials of the changes ahead of time. He also told NBC10's Cydney Long that any service changes would be delayed until June 1 at the earliest. On Wednesday, PATCO made the delay official: "The targeted implementation date will allow PATCO to analyze feedback from riders and the community, as well as provide additional time for notification of the changes to the public," PATCO said in a news release. "It is our goal to incorporate the feedback and concerns to greatest extent possible to the new Owl schedule when implemented." Citing safety as a top priority, PATCO had said on Monday that it was planning to stop overnight train service to half of its stations in Philadelphia and South Jersey and running trains less often. Owl Service speed line trains would run every 60 minutes instead of every 45 minutes, PATCO and the DRPA said. Besides fewer trains transporting people between Philadelphia and South Jersey, the agency would be serving less than half of its 13 stations. The Ashland, Haddonfield, Westmont, Collingswood, City Hall, 9/10th & Locust and 12/13th & Locust stations would be closed, PATCO said. The Owl Service adjustments increase and maintain a safe and comfortable travel experience for our owl riders, agency general manager John D. Rink said Monday. The agency said there would be an increased presence of police officers at the six stations (Lindenwold, Woodcrest, Ferry, Broadway, 8th & Market and 15/16th & Locust Stations) that would remain open and on the overnight trains. Hanson said that a sex assault on an empty train in part prompted the changes. Earlier this year the woman passed out on an otherwise empty PATCO train early in the morning was sexually assaulted. A South Jersey man was charged in that incident. Hanson also said that overnight ridership is also very low, with only a handful of riders at each station. Theres safety in numbers, having more riders together on trains and in stations provides greater security and better police coverage, DRPA/PATCO Police Chief John L. Stief said Monday. We evaluated ways to increase our police presence throughout the system during the owl hours. These service modifications allow us to do just that. Stay tuned for PATCO's new night owl plans. One person was killed while six others, including a 4-year-old boy, were injured in four separate shootings during a violent Tuesday night in Philadelphia. Police say a fight led to a shooting on the 3800 block of Darien Street around 6:30 p.m. "We found 13 spent shell casings from a semi-automatic weapon on the sidewalk and on the street," Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small said. Lisandro Santa, 20, was struck multiple times in the body. He was taken to Temple University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 7:11 p.m. A 28-year-old man was shot in the buttocks and leg. He was taken to Temple University Hospital in stable condition. Witnesses told police the gunman, who was wearing a white t-shirt, fled south on Darien Street and then ran between row homes. Around the same time, a 27-year-old man was shot several times in the torso on the 2800 block of Marshall Street, about a mile away from the scene of the first shooting. He was taken to Temple University Hospital where he is in critical but stable condition. A 4-year-old boy was also grazed in the buttocks while a 27-year-old man was shot in the left torso on the 4100 block of North Broad Street. They were both taken to the hospital and are in stable condition. A fifth shooting victim was taken to Temple University Hospital in critical condition. Police have not yet determined where that victim was shot, however. Then around 10:30 p.m. a man showed up at a hospital with three gunshot wounds to the chest. He said he was shot around 68th Street and Greenway Avenue in Southwest Philly. No arrests have been made in any of the shootings. Police are looking through surveillance video as they continue to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact Philadelphia Police. Nature is in more trouble now than at any other time in human history, with extinction looming over 1 million species of plants and animals, scientists said Monday in the United Nations' first comprehensive report on biodiversity. It's all because of humans, but it's not too late to fix the problem, the report said. Species loss is accelerating to a rate tens or hundreds of times faster than in the past, the report said. More than half a million species on land "have insufficient habitat for long-term survival" and are likely to go extinct, many within decades, unless their habitats are restored. The oceans are not any better off. "Humanity unwittingly is attempting to throttle the living planet and humanity's own future," said George Mason University biologist Thomas Lovejoy, who has been called the godfather of biodiversity for his research. He was not part of the report. "The biological diversity of this planet has been really hammered, and this is really our last chance to address all of that," Lovejoy said. Conservation scientists from around the world convened in Paris to issue the report, which exceeded 1,000 pages. The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) included more than 450 researchers who used 15,000 scientific and government reports. The report's summary had to be approved by representatives of all 109 nations. Some nations hit harder by the losses, like small island countries, wanted more in the report. Others, such as the United States, were cautious in the language they sought, but they agreed "we're in trouble," said Rebecca Shaw, chief scientist for the World Wildlife Fund, who observed the final negotiations. "This is the strongest call we've seen for reversing the trends on the loss of nature," Shaw said. The findings are not just about saving plants and animals, but about preserving a world that's becoming harder for humans to live in, said Robert Watson, a former top NASA and British scientist who headed the report. "We are indeed threatening the potential food security, water security, human health and social fabric" of humanity, Watson told The Associated Press. He said the poor in less developed countries bear the greatest burden. The report's 39-page summary highlighted five ways people are reducing biodiversity: Turning forests, grasslands and other areas into farms, cities and other developments. The habitat loss leaves plants and animals homeless. About three-quarters of Earth's land, two-thirds of its oceans and 85% of crucial wetlands have been severely altered or lost, making it harder for species to survive, the report said. Overfishing the world's oceans. A third of the world's fish stocks are overfished. Permitting climate change from the burning of fossil fuels to make it too hot, wet or dry for some species to survive. Almost half of the world's land mammals not including bats and nearly a quarter of the birds have already had their habitats hit hard by global warming. Polluting land and water. Every year, 300 to 400 million tons of heavy metals, solvents and toxic sludge are dumped into the world's waters. Allowing invasive species to crowd out native plants and animals. The number of invasive alien species per country has risen 70% since 1970, with one species of bacteria threatening nearly 400 amphibian species. Fighting climate change and saving species are equally important, the report said, and working on both environmental problems should go hand in hand. Both problems exacerbate each other because a warmer world means fewer species, and a less biodiverse world means fewer trees and plants to remove heat-trapping carbon dioxide from the air, Lovejoy said. The world's coral reefs are a perfect example of where climate change and species loss intersect. If the world warms another 0.9 degrees (0.5 degrees Celsius), which other reports say is likely, coral reefs will probably dwindle by 70% to 90%, the report said. At 1.8 degrees (1 degree Celsius), the report said, 99% of the world's coral will be in trouble. "Business as usual is a disaster," Watson said. At least 680 species with backbones have already gone extinct since 1600. The report said 559 domesticated breeds of mammals used for food have disappeared. More than 40% of the world's amphibian species, more than one-third of the marine mammals and nearly one-third of sharks and fish are threatened with extinction. The report relies heavily on research by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, or IUCN, which is composed of biologists who maintain a list of threatened species. The IUCN calculated in March that 27,159 species are threatened, endangered or extinct in the wild out of nearly 100,000 species biologists examined in depth. That includes 1,223 mammal species, 1,492 bird species and 2,341 fish species. Nearly half the threatened species are plants. Scientists have only examined a small fraction of the estimated 8 million species on Earth. The report comes up with 1 million species in trouble by extrapolating the IUCN's 25% threatened rate to the rest of the world's species and using a lower rate for the estimated 5.5 million species of insects, Watson said. Outside scientists, such as Lovejoy and others, said that's a reasonable assessment. The report gives only a generic "within decades" time frame for species loss because it is dependent on many variables, including taking the problem seriously, which can reduce the severity of the projections, Watson said. "We're in the middle of the sixth great extinction crisis, but it's happening in slow motion," said Conservation International and University of California Santa Barbara ecologist Lee Hannah, who was not part of the report. Five times in the past, Earth has undergone mass extinctions where much of life on Earth blinked out, like the one that killed the dinosaurs. Watson said the report was careful not to call what's going on now as a sixth big die-off because current levels don't come close to the 75% level in past mass extinctions. The report goes beyond species. Of the 18 measured ways nature helps humans, the report said 14 are declining, with food and energy production noticeable exceptions. The report found downward trends in nature's ability to provide clean air and water, good soil and other essentials. Habitat loss is one of the biggest threats, and it's happening worldwide, Watson said. The report projects 15.5 million miles (25 million kilometers) of new roads will be paved over nature between now and 2050, most in the developing world. Many of the worst effects can be prevented by changing the way we grow food, produce energy, deal with climate change and dispose of waste, the report said. That involves concerted action by governments, companies and people. Individuals can help with simple changes to the way they eat and use energy, said the co-chairman of the report, ecological scientist Josef Settele of the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research in Germany. That doesn't mean becoming a vegetarian or vegan, but balancing meat, vegetables and fruit, and walking and biking more, Watson said. "We can actually feed all the coming billions of people without destroying another inch of nature," Lovejoy said. Much of that can be done by eliminating food waste and being more efficient, he said. Hastily written executive orders. Declarations by tweet. President Donald Trump's White House hasn't been known for its careful crafting of policy. But Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law and senior adviser, has spent months drawing up a long-awaited immigration overhaul plan that the White House began to roll out Tuesday. Frustrated by congressional inaction and stinging Republican defeats, Kushner has been meeting with GOP groups and speaking with lawmakers to try to fashion a plan that the president and his party might be able to unite behind. He's been assisted by a team that includes experts in drafting legislation so that he can be less reliant on Capitol Hill, according to people familiar with the efforts. It's a new approach for an administration with few legislative achievements and facing the challenges of navigating a hostile Democratic House, where many legislators are more intent on investigating the president than working with him, especially in an area as contentious as immigration. "The fact is this president is taking the lead. He's not waiting on Congress," White House spokesman Hogan Gidley told Fox News on Tuesday. Officials stressed that the plan could evolve in response to feedback. But so far it includes two prongs: A border security bill that would focus, in part, on modernizing ports of entry, and a package of revisions to legal immigration that aims to create a more "merit-based" system giving preference to those with job skills rather than relatives of immigrants already in the country. A senior administration official told reporters that the total number of immigrants allowed into the country would not change under the plan only the types of immigrants admitted. The White House is also working with Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., on additional legislation that would address the nation's asylum system, in an effort to stem the flow of migrants across the border, according to the official, who outlined the plan on condition of anonymity because public discussion was not authorized. It's not the first time the White House has tried to sell Congress on Trump's immigration priorities and it's unclear whether Republicans let alone Democrats will be on board. There is deep doubt in Washington that there is any appetite on Capitol Hill for a wide-ranging agreement. Trump and Kushner met Tuesday afternoon with a dozen Republican senators who seemed largely receptive to the effort. But several said they were awaiting more details. Kushner's team began meeting in January with conservative, business and other groups, soliciting input on a subject Congress has struggled for decades to address. Though he had no previous background on the contentious subject, Kushner has tried to replicate the playbook he used to help push bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation across the finish line last year. Unlike that effort, however, this time the White House has made no outreach to Democrats, with Kushner instead looking to draft a plan that Republicans can rally around to make clear what the party is "for" as Trump heads into what is expected to be a brutal re-election campaign. Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, which advocates for lower rates of immigration and has provided input on the plan, said that, as part of the effort, Kushner's team was working to craft legislation in-house instead of leaving it to Congress. Several weeks ago, the team added staff with experience in legislation-writing, including George Fishman, deputy general counsel at the Department of Homeland Security. "It's not just talking points or goals at this point," Vaughan said. It's unclear, however, how members of Congress might respond to that approach. A big legislative package coming from the White House could be panned by lawmakers unless they had a role to play in the sausage making. Trump's signature legislative achievement the Republican tax cut bill was the product of careful collaboration between the White House, Treasury and Republican leaders in Congress, who agreed on a broad framework and then left the details to the Senate Ways and Means and Finance committees. One person briefed on the immigration plan, who spoke on condition of anonymity to reveal internal discussions, said White House officials had made clear that they had grown tired of waiting on Congress and did not want a repeat of their last, much-hyped immigration push a "four pillars" plan rolled out in early 2018 that failed to gain traction. But some Republican members question Kushner's broad-ranging approach. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, a member of GOP leadership, said Kushner had been "vetting ideas with the president, making progress there, and also with members of the Senate. I've been encouraging him to do that." But he suggested more narrowly tailored bills might more successful. "Having seen our experience, going big and ending up nowhere," he said, "I think we're better off trying to address this in a targeted sort of way." Vaughan, whose group is concerned that Kushner's proposal will be too accommodating to business groups that want more immigrant workers, urged Trump to prioritize the southern border, where a surge in Central American migrant families has been overwhelming federal resources. She also cautioned against a top-down approach, saying that "it's very unlikely that members of Congress are going to just accept something that comes over from the White House." AP Congressional Correspondent Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report. Trump has signed off on Kushner's immigration plan By JILL COLVIN Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump has signed off on a new immigration plan being spearheaded by senior adviser and presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner that appeared to receive a positive reception from Republican senators briefed on it Tuesday. A senior administration official told reporters after the meeting that the president had approved the effort to overhaul America's immigration system and increase border security last week and that it should now be considered "the President Trump plan." Kushner is working to finalize a plan with two major components: Border security measures that would include efforts to secure ports of entry and a package of immigration proposals that would create a more "merit-based" system giving preference to those with job skills rather than relatives of immigrants already in the country. Under the plan, the same number of immigrants would be permitted to enter the country, but the composition would change. The White House is also working with Sen. Lindsey Graham on additional legislation that would address the nation's asylum system in an effort to stem the flow of migrants across the border, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to outline the plan. Several GOP senators who attended complimented the effort, which the White House deemed "productive." Democrats were not in attendance. "The president and senators discussed a potential plan that would secure the border, protect and raise wages for the American worker, and move toward a merit-based immigration system," White House spokesman Hogan Gidley said in a written readout of the meeting. Sen. Martha McSally of Arizona complimented Kushner and the White House. "They have done substantial work," she told Fox News in an interview at the White House after the meeting. After he returned to the Capitol, Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas described a "very good productive conversation. ... I heard large areas of agreement from everyone in the room." Cotton said he still needs to see the details but things are "moving in the right direction." And Sen, Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota called it a "good starting point" that could be appealing to Democrats in the right situation. "I think the environment right now with the booming economy, workforce demands, a crisis at the border that's no longer deemed manufactured presents an opportunity for discussion," he said. Any immigration plan will be an uphill challenge on Capitol Hill where lawmakers have struggled for decades to pass comprehensive immigration legislation. Conservative Republicans are likely to oppose a plan that does not cut rates of legal immigration, while Democrats have made clear they will not accept changes without new protections of "Dreamer" immigrants brought to the country as children and are here illegally. Some Republicans, especially those from election swing states, would like to see protections for Dreamers as well. Some have also reacted skeptically to Kushner's involvement, given he has no previous background on the contentious subject. Kushner has nonetheless spent months meeting with various Republican groups, hoping to put together a proposal he believes can unite party members, following the playbook he used to help pass bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation last year. Grassley, who favors stricter immigration enforcement, kept expectations in check before the meeting. "Well I think anything I'm looking for they probably won't have any chance of getting passed," he told reporters. Kushner said during an interview at the TIME 100 Summit two weeks ago that he would present a revised version to Trump "probably at the end of this week, next week" and that the president would then "make some changes, likely, and then he'll decide what he wants to do with it when he wants to do with it." "My hope is that we can really do something that unifies people around what we're for on immigration," he said. White House counselor Kellyanne Conway on Tuesday described the plan as "fairly comprehensive" and said it could include changes to the diversity visa lottery, which Trump has long criticized. She also told Fox News Channel that Trump might be open to a deal that would address the plight of hundreds of thousands of "Dreamer" immigrants who were brought to the country as children and are here illegally. "We'll see," she said, later telling reporters, "The president made very clear in January 2018 in the Cabinet Room that he was willing to do a deal on DACA and the Dreamers." A previous attempt by Trump to reach a comprehensive immigration deal with Congress collapsed last year and there is deep skepticism in Washington that there is any appetite on Capitol Hill for a wide-ranging agreement. Trump put immigration at the center of his presidential campaign, including a promise to build a wall along the U.S-Mexico border. He is expected to continue to hammer the issue in his re-election campaign as he tries to energize his base of supporters. At a lunch meeting of GOP senators, Vice President Mike Pence said support is growing for the White House's approach on border security. "He thinks that's really turned in our favor," said Sen. Mike Braun of Indiana. ___ Associated Press writers Lisa Mascaro and Darlene Superville contributed to this report. ___ Former Vice President Joe Biden knows how to get the most out of a presidential campaign kickoff. Three weeks after he officially announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination April 26, Biden will address the masses at a "Biden for President campaign kickoff rally" on May 18 in Center City. The longtime former U.S. senator from Delaware, who has been leading in polls since he jumped into the crowded 2020 primary race, has traveled across the country in the last month. "Biden met with voters in the key early states of Pennsylvania, Iowa, South Carolina, Nevada, and New Hampshire to listen firsthand to their concerns and ideas, and make his case to serve as the next president of the United States," according to a campaign press release Wednesday. The rally is taking place at Eakins Oval along the Ben Franklin Parkway. It will be open to the public. Biden, 76, remains among the favorites for the Democratic nomination despite some criticism for a long history of publicly affectionate behavior with women. Nevada politician Lucy Flores said she was uncomfortable when Biden kissed her on the back of the head backstage at a 2014 campaign event. Her account was countered by scores of women from prominent lawmakers to former staffers who praised him as a warm, affectionate person and a supportive boss. But several other women have also come forward to recount their own awkward interactions with him. Whether Biden can appeal to an increasingly progressive Democratic party remains a big question going into the 2020 election. The former six-term U.S. Delaware senator could provide voters the choice of a more middle-of-the-road candidate than others from the left wing, like Sens. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. Asylum seekers waiting to get into the U.S. sleep in small tents set up by the border, depending on volunteers and churches to bring them food and clothing. Some scrape together 25 cents to pay a toll to get on an international bridge where they can use a bathroom. They've fled violence-ridden homelands, often arriving at the U.S. border deep in debt, paying $7,000 or more to smugglers. Under President Donald Trump's latest immigration proposal, they could face another demand on their meager resources: a fee to process their asylum applications. It's not known how much the fee might be, but any amount would likely be a burden. "If we came from our country, it's because we didn't have the opportunity to work. We don't have money," said Suanny Gomez, a 24-year-old woman from Honduras who waited in a tent with her 5-year-old son, William. The proposed application fee and other changes are the latest in a series of proposals from an administration struggling to cope with a surge of migrant families arriving at the southern border. The migrants have overwhelmed federal resources and complicated Trump's efforts to claim victory at the border as he runs for re-election next year. The fee proposal was part of a memo Trump signed Monday directing his attorney general and acting homeland security secretary to take additional measures to overhaul the asylum system, which he insists is plagued by "rampant abuse." It said the application fee would not exceed the cost of processing applications, but officials did not immediately provide an estimate for what that might be. Trump is giving Homeland Security Department officials 90 days to come up with new regulations to ensure that applications are adjudicated within 180 days of filing, except under exceptional circumstances. He called on officials to immediately revoke work authorizations when people are denied asylum and ordered removed from the country. He also wants to bar anyone who has entered or tried to enter the country illegally from receiving a provisional work permit. Immigration advocates said the fees could push applicants further into poverty. "Asylum seekers are fleeing persecution, and have left their families, communities, homes, jobs and possessions behind in order to save their lives," said Archi Pyati, policy chief at Tahirih Justice Center. Democratic House Majority leader Steny Hoyer said Trump was undermining American ideals. "This latest move will do nothing to address the humanitarian crisis on our border of the Trump Administration's own making," he said in a statement. On Tuesday, acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan described that crisis, telling a House subcommittee the department was running out of money and out of resources for dealing with the mass of people coming to the border. He said the White House would send a supplemental request for funding, along with some legislative suggestions. McAleenan, formerly the U.S. Customs and Border Protection commissioner, said the system had cracked under the sheer volume of people coming to the U.S. In a single day, April 16, nearly 5,000 people crossed the border. Agents and officers don't have the resources to hold, process or properly care for them. "Simply put, the system is full and we are well beyond our capacity," he said. "The status quo is not acceptable." McAleenan has been in charge for about two weeks, following the resignation of Kirstjen Nielsen, who left amid a staff shake-up orchestrated by the White House. Most Central Americans seeking asylum say they are fleeing violence and poverty, and many request admission to the U.S. under federal and international law. About 20 percent of those who claim asylum in the U.S. are granted it, but the rates vary by country of origin. Also, not everyone who crossed the border claims asylum; during the 2018 fiscal year, 161,005 people claimed asylum, though migrants have a year to make a claim. There were more than 521,090 border apprehensions during fiscal year 2018. The administration has tried to crack down on asylum seekers. Attorney General William Barr said this year that asylum seekers who have passed their initial screenings are no longer entitled to be released while their cases play out. In Matamoros, Mexico, about a thousand people were waiting to cross the border to seek asylum. A man washed himself in the Rio Grande, the river that forms the international boundary, because there are no bathing facilities nearby. Leonardo Arzuaga, 28, of Cuba, arrived in Mexico on April 1 and, with support from American friends, is staying at a low-priced hotel. He waits until he can cross the border and claim asylum. Thousands of Cubans seek to enter the United States, saying they are fleeing political persecution. "I think it's a bit unjust," Arzuaga said of the recent proposals. "Because many people do not have the means to arrive, work, produce. For me it's something that isn't logical." "Because one practically gets here with nothing." Associated Press writers Jill Colvin and Amy Taxin contributed to this story. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 97 percent of methamphetamine seizures take place along the southwestern U.S. border. At the border south of San Diego, meth seizures by CBP officers are on the rise. CBP San Ysidro Port of Entry Director Sidney Aki spoke with NBC 7 Investigates about how his team finds contraband. Aki explains while his team gets better at catching smuggled meth, they're battling groups who are also quickly changing their tactics. The smuggling organizations are getting smarter and smarter, said Director Aki. Once we start hitting up or intercepting a lot of floor loads they change up their stance they go to the rear tires, they go to the roof load, or go to a spare tire. Drug Enforcement Agency data shows meth seizures are on the rise by 62 percent along the San Diego County border. The world's busiest land border crossing sees more than 100,000 people daily. Aki said the bigger the port, the more chances agents will find meth hidden in vehicles or on travelers. We have to be fast, nimble and flexible to ensure we can keep up with everyone, said Aki. The number of meth-related cases filed in San Diego has grown over 700 percent. NBC 7s Steven Luke has more on how these files shine a light on the cartels recruitment process. A man has died in the hospital after being assaulted on a street with a stick in El Cajon Wednesday morning, police confirmed. The El Cajon Police Department were investigating the deadly attack, which occurred on N. 2nd Street near Main Street at about 2 a.m. Witnesses told police a man attacked the victim with a stick after an argument broke out between them. ECPD said the victim was transported to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead from blunt force trauma to the head. The suspect was taken into custody near the scene on murder charges, ECPD said. No other suspects are outstanding. Southbound traffic on 2nd Street between Madison Avenue and Main Street were diverted during the investigation. No other information was available. Please refresh this page for updates on this story. Details may change as more information becomes available. Nursing students at a San Diego college are now able to take a program in the dosage and molecular breakdown of CBD or Cannabidiol. The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Mission Valley is the first accredited college in the U.S. to offer a program of this kind. Some health professionals believe CBD can help with pain management, anxiety, depression, cancer symptoms, and autoimmune diseases. "One patient could need one milligram of CBD and another could need 100 milligrams," said Chad Conner, a professor at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. "The dosage is important, which is why I recommend seeing a healthcare practitioner." When recreational marijuana became legal in California in January 2019, it opened new doors for the CBD industry. But many people who sell the product do not know how much an individual will need for maximum effectiveness. A majority of dispensaries only have budtenders making recommendations who do not usually have formal education, said Conner. Patients need someone who is educated to recommend proper dosing. Conner said CBD is best absorbed into the system through drops into the mouth or patches that can be placed on the skin. The program also teaches nursing about doses through vapes. Conner said water-soluble CBD products are better absorbed through the gut. This is an herb, so practitioners should start slow and add more dosage as you go, added Conner. The 8 credit course not only teaches proper dosing for patients but can also be helpful for nurses working in emergency rooms who see people suffering from marijuana overdoses. The course is currently online and will be on campus starting in the fall. Revenue for Viasat Inc., the Carlsbad-based broadband internet service provider and government contractor, has shot up over the past decade like the communications satellites the company designs and launches into orbit. Just over 10 years ago, Viasats annual revenue stood at $516 million, and that number has quadrupled to about $2 billion in calendar year 2018. Currently, the company has some 5,500 employees at 28 offices around the globe, including the U.S., Asia, Europe, Australia and Israel, according to the company website. One reason for that dramatic growth, said Rick Baldridge, Viasats president and chief operating officer, was a decision announced in 2008 that Viasat would build and launch its own satellite to provide broadband internet service. A lot of our growth has come from investing in assets like satellites that generate recurring revenue, said Baldridge. Internet Service About half of the companys revenue comes from providing internet service to a variety of markets, including homes, businesses, commercial airliners and government aircraft and installations, said Baldridge, while the other half comes from the technology sold to defense agencies and other government clients, including encryption equipment and communications devices for military fighters. From the beginning, Viasat was a game-changer in the realm of satellite communications. Its first satellite, dubbed ViaSat-1, was launched in 2011 and was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for having twice the capacity of all other communications satellites combined at that time, Baldridge said. The next generation, ViaSat-2, provides coverage for North and Central America and Europe (the latter through a partnership with Eutelsat, a European company). ViaSat-3 The company is now working on ViaSat-3, a constellation of three 1-terabit-per-second satellites that will be launched beginning in 2021, said Baldridge, which will offer broadband internet service across the entire globe, with the exception of the North and South poles. Along with its technology expertise, Viasat is also seeking and developing new markets for its internet services. In addition to its services for homes, businesses and government agencies, Viasat is expanding its footprint in the commercial aviation space, with its internet service being provided to passengers on Jet Blue, United Airlines and American Airlines. The company also has developed a community Wi-Fi service, first rolled out in Mexico, in which broadband access is available to some 1.5 million people through a network of Wi-Fi hotspots, for a charge of about $3 to $4 per month, Baldridge said. The idea is to create a service that can be replicated in places where internet service has not been available to large swaths of the population. We can literally help change the lives, we believe for the good, for a large part of the world and do it profitably; thats the mission were on, Baldridge said. Looking to the future, Viasats plan is to keep building bigger and more powerful satellites, said Rich Valera, managing director and senior analyst with Needham and Co., and to keep finding new markets for its services. While the company has endured setbacks in recent years, from launch delays by its partners, to an antenna that did not deploy properly on ViaSat-2, to the collapse of a deal with Eutelsat to fund a large share of ViaSat-3, a lot has gone right over the past decade as well, said Valera. That includes the dramatic growth of its internet broadband business and development of technology that offers greater bandwidth at a lower cost than its competitors in the satellite communications business, said Valera. Dominating In-Flight Internet Mike Crawford, senior analyst with B. Riley FBR Inc., based in Los Angeles, said that over the next 10 years, he expects Viasat to continue the success it has seen since its founding in 1986. One example of the companys ability to disrupt markets is in in-flight internet service, where Viasat has captured nearly 100 percent of new installations on commercial aircraft over the past year, Crawford said. They are building a global communications network that will offer an abundance of high-speed data in hard-to-reach places all over the globe, Crawford said, at attractive prices for end users and attractive margins for the company. Fast Facts About Viasat CEO: Mark Dankberg 2018 Revenue: Approximately $2 billion (calendar year) No. of Local Employees: 2,600 (5,500 globally) Headquarters: Carlsbad Year Founded: 1986 Company Description: Global communications company, providing broadband internet via its network of satellites, as well as communications technology to defense and government agencies. Additional stories from the San Diego Business Journal are available here. Sign up for their free daily email newsletter. Call this a classic "only in Florida" moment. Deputies in Charlotte County found dozens of reptiles in a man and woman's possession early Monday morning during a traffic stop in Punta Gorda, NBC affiliate WBBH-TV reports. After being stopped for running through a stop sign, the couple told deputies they were coming from collecting frogs and snakes at an underpass nearby. When deputies asked what kind of animals they collected, the woman opened her backpack at her feet, where there were over 40 small, three-striped turtles, according to WBBH. When asked if she had anything else, the woman pulled a foot-long alligator from her yoga pants, Charlotte County Sheriff's officials said. The two were cited for possessing the reptiles, according to the Florida Fish Wildlife and Conservation Commission. The animals were seized and then released. Police groups in Arlington, Virginia, are demanding an apology from a Democratic candidate for commonwealths attorney, saying her campaign unfairly accused their department of police brutality. Police are outraged that Parisa Tafti is pointing to incidents from 1991 and 2015 as examples of police brutality. On May 19, 2015, police responding to a domestic violence call found a man wielding a metal bar with his 87-year-old mother nearby. After he struck and injured an officer, he was shot and killed. The shooting was ruled justified and no charges were filed. But a campaign mailer from Tafti labels it police brutality. What we really need is a measure of transparency and independence in this process so that perhaps the state police are investigating or perhaps the special prosecutor comes in to review, Tafti explained. Were disgusted with the fact that its an outright lie what was said and its a distortion of the truth, said Lt. Richard Conigliaro of the Arlington Police Beneficiary Association. Shes claiming its police brutality just to score points for the election, he added. Two police employee groups are taking the unusual step of issuing statements on social media demanding an apology. We would ask that she apologize publicly in the same way that she put this out, said Cpl. Jeffrey Lubin of the Arlington Coalition of Police. Put out an apology. Acknowledge publicly that the use of force that shes referencing was justified and legal. The Arlington Police Department is staying out of the debate but posted a reminder of its practices on social media. Taftis opponent, incumbent Commonwealths Attorney Theo Stamos, issued a written statement saying, in part, I concluded that his use of deadly force was justified. It's reckless to try and exploit this tragedy for political gain. Tafti said shes the one under attack for proposing reform. Im not anti-police, she said. I am pro-community and I am pro-accountability. Anytime a reformer like me comes along, theyre always accused of being anti-police because there is a resistance to change, she added. The campaign mailer controversy will no doubt be an issue when the candidates debate Wednesday night. The primary election is June 11. A 73-year-old man from Glen Burnie, Maryland, who once taught at an elementary school was arrested in connection to child sexual offenses that happened more than 40 years ago, authorities say. Theodore Bell taught at White Marsh Elementary school in Mechanicsville from 1972 to 1975, the St. Mary's County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday. In September, St. Mary's County Public Schools received information about possible assaults on children that happened in the '70s, the sheriff's office said. Bell was charged with second-degree sex offense involving an underage victim, perverted practice and second-degree assault. At the time of the offenses, Bell lived in Leonardtown. Authorities don't believe that any of the alleged incidents happened at the school. Deputies said it's possible that there are more victims. They are asking anyone who may be a potential victim or who has information to call Detective James Bare at (301) 475-4200 extension *8118, or by email at James.Bare@stmarysmd.com. The public can also call Crime Solvers at (301) 475-3333, or text a tip to TIP239 plus their message to CRIMES (274637). Former Army intelligence analyst Chelsea Manning said in a new legal motion that she will never testify to a grand jury in Virginia investigating the website Wikileaks, and it therefore makes no sense to continue to keep her in jail for refusing to do so. Manning has been jailed in Alexandria for two months for refusing to testify to the sitting grand jury. She appealed her incarceration to the federal appeals court in Richmond, but a three-judge panel unanimously rejected her appeal last month. Now, in a motion filed Monday in Alexandria, Manning argues she has proven she'll stick to her principles and should therefore be released. "At this point, given the sacrifices she has already made, her strong principles, her strong and growing support community, and the disgrace attendant to her capitulation, it is inconceivable that Chelsea Manning will ever change her mind about her refusal to cooperate with the grand jury," her lawyers wrote. Federal law only allows a recalcitrant witness to be jailed on civil contempt if there's a chance that the incarceration will coerce the witness into testifying. If a judge were to determine that incarcerating Manning were punitive rather than coercive, Manning would be set free. Manning filed an eight-page statement with the legal motion, outlining her intransigence. "I can, without any hesitation, state that nothing that will convince me to testify before this or any other grand jury for that matter. This experience so far only proves my long held belief that grand juries are simply outdated tools used by the federal government to harass and disrupt political opponents and activists in fishing expeditions,'' Manning wrote. She also said she is suffering physical problems related with inadequate follow-up care to gender-reassignment surgery. Manning served seven years in a military prison for leaking a trove of documents to Wikileaks before her 35-year sentence was commuted by then-President Barack Obama. Since Manning was jailed for contempt, prosecutors in Alexandria have unsealed criminal charges against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange and requested his extradition. Prosecutors have not yet responded to Manning's most recent motion. They have previously stated that Manning's claims she is being persecuted by the Trump administration are speculative and that she has the same duty as any other citizen to provide truthful testimony when subpoenaed. The owner of a Washington, D.C., area radio station that broadcasts Sputnik International 24/7 has been ordered to register his Florida-based broadcasting company as a Russian federal agent. WTOP-FM reports Judge Robin Rosenburg ruled Tuesday that RM Broadcasting must register with the U.S. government. RM and a Russian government-owned news agency agreed in 2017 that the station would broadcast the agency's communications continuously without edit until 2021. Federal agents told RM in 2018 that the station was acting as a "publicity agent" for the Russian agency. It said RM would need to register as a foreign principal under the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, originally adopted to fight Nazi propaganda. RM asked the court to rule on the matter, arguing that it only buys and resells airtime. A high-capacity magazine weapon was found Tuesday in a car belonging to a man visiting the Trump International Hotel. Lee McCartney, 49, from Norristown, Pennsylvania, faces several charges including possessing an unregistered weapon. McCartney tried to go through security for an event at the hotel and, when asked, told screeners he had a gun in his car, according to officials. Police found a handgun and a high capacity magazine with 15 hallow point bullets in McCartney's Jeep. Police say he did not make any threats. However, D.C. does not recognize weapon registrations from other states except under limited conditions. D.C. Police took over the investigation from the Secret Service. U.S. marshals are searching for a man who fled police in Washington, D.C., and crashed into another car in Maryland. Victor Charles Johnson, who also uses the alias Victor Jackson, is wanted for a parole violation, according to the U.S. Marshals Service. The Capital Area Regional Task Force saw him in D.C., but he fled police. Johnson was driving erratically on U.S. Route 50 when he struck another car from behind near the Baltimore-Washington Parkway split, according to the U.S. Marshals Service. Johnson continued on the BW Parkway, exiting toward Prince Georges Hospital Center in Cheverly, where he crashed and fled on foot into the woods, the U.S. Marshals Service said. Schools in the area were locked down, and residents were told to stay inside. Officers from the Prince Georges County Police Department and the Metropolitan Police Department are assisting in the search. Johnson is 6-feet-2 inches tall and weighs 180 pounds. He was wearing a gray New Balance shirt, blue sweatpants and a jean jacket. He has a history of drug and weapons offenses. Anyone with information about Johnson's whereabouts should contact the U.S. Marshals Service at 1-800-336-0102 or through the U.S. Marshals tips app. Protesters at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington were taken into custody Wednesday evening as demonstrations got heated. The embassy in Georgetown has become an unlikely flashpoint in the confrontation between populist Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and U.S.-backed Juan Guaido for political power in the South American country. Maduro invited American activists who see him as Venezuela's legitimate leader into the embassy a month ago as the United States and another 50 countries recognized Guaido as president and severed ties with his government. After the embassy was officially closed, the diplomats left, but the activists stayed. By Wednesday night, power and water was cut off at the building and police were not letting anyone bring food inside. A man was arrested for trying to throw food into an open window at the embassy. Video showed the bloodied protester sitting on the ground wearing handcuffs after a struggle with officers. Officers were seen putting handcuffs on another protester who was wearing a shirt representing Code Pink, one of the organizations at the embassy supporting Maduro. Outside the embassy, Venezuelan expatriates have been protesting the activists' presence inside the embassy. President Donald Trump's administration has said the activists are trespassing Venezuelan sovereign territory and need to leave. Gustavo Vecchio, Guaido's appointee as ambassador to Washington, has said he's signed all necessary documents and it is now up to U.S. authorities to clear the building. The activists created a so-called Venezuela Embassy Protection Collective, hanging giant posters from the roof and keeping a busy schedule of conferences, concerts, poetry recitals and other events. The Venezuelan expatriates started showing up in big numbers after an uprising against Maduro failed last week. It's unclear how many people the U.S. Secret Service took into custody Wednesday. UPDATE, JULY 31, 2020: Court records confirm both charges against Nicholas Ranstad were dropped. The story below was published in May 2019. A soldier who once set a record for the longest sniper shot in Afghanistan by an American is now facing gun charges as part of a larger death investigation in Northern Virginia. Deputies arrested Nicholas Ranstad in Warren County, Virginia, on May 4 after he called sheriff's deputies to a house where a man had allegedly suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound. According to the Warren County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a house on the 200 block of Doom Peak Rd. in Linden, Virginia, where they met Ranstad and confirmed that the injured man, Sean David Miller, had died. Deputies said Ranstad told them that he was friends with Miller, a Marine veteran, and had become concerned with his well-being, prompting him to travel from Fort Bragg, North Carolina, to Miller's home to check in on him. Ranstad then said that he entered Miller's home through a window but found Miller dead with a single gunshot wound, officials said. But it's Ranstad's actions after allegedly discovering Miller that prompted police to charge him with reckless handling of a firearm. According to police, Ranstand said he became so upset by Miller's death that he fired four shots into the floor of the house from a gun he had brought with him. Police said they are still investigating the circumstances of Miller's death, but News4 has learned that the Medical Examiner's Office has ruled the death a suicide. And Miller's father wrote about his son's death in a social media post, saying Miller "has fallen to PTSD and suicide." "He fought his PTSD demons to the best of his abilities, but they were too overwhelming." Ranstad is due in court in August and the Commonwealth's Attorney will decide whether to proceed or dismiss the charges. A 72-year-old Virginia woman who was found dead in the Potomac River was a philanthropist who had recently published a book with her husband about their love story. Barbara Bushkin was found dead Monday inside her SUV that had submerged in the river near Roosevelt Island in D.C. "She was the other half of me. She was the better me," Bushkin's husband, Arthur Bushkin, said. Arthur Bushkin said he and his wife dated during high school. They went their separate ways and lost touch for 45 years before finding each other again. They wrote a book about their journey titled "Lifelong Valentines" that was published earlier this year. "She was a good person. She made people happy," Arthur Bushkin said. He says Barbara was coming home from a charity event the night she died. "When we were dating in high school ... and we agreed we'd do an act of kindness every day. And we did it," Arthur Bushkin said. Crews had searched for the vehicle and its driver Sunday night and throughout Monday after receiving a 911 call reporting an SUV had crashed into the river. D.C. Fire & EMS said they found tire tracks leading into the river and divers were able to locate the SUV by 6 p.m. Monday. Crews continued their effort to pull a submerged SUV with a body inside out of the Potomac River. Jackie Bensen reports. Also on Monday afternoon, Fairfax County Police had shared a missing persons report on Bushkin, saying she had been last seen about 7:50 p.m. Sunday in the District and had been driving a 2016 black Lexus RX with Virginia tags. Police said Bushkin was endangered "due to mental and/or physical issues." The witness who called 911 said the SUV entered the water around 9:20 p.m. that night. Police identified the victim inside the SUV as Bushkin on Monday shortly before midnight, saying Bushkin died of injuries sustained in the crash into the river. UPDATE: Detectives have identified the body of missing 72 y/o Barbara Bushkin. She died of her injuries from a crash into the Potomac River. We appreciate the help we received from the community as we worked to find her.https://t.co/8BUeP9oFUy Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) May 7, 2019 Crews pulled the SUV out of the water. One of its doors showed signs of damage. "We don't know what the circumstances are here, how the car came to get into the water," Maggiolo said Sunday night. "But that's going to be part of a law enforcement investigation." "There was probably some medical event. I hope she didnt suffer too badly," Arthur Bushkin said. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is declaring "case closed" on the Russia probe and potential obstruction by President Donald Trump, deriding Democrats who he says are "grieving" the result. Democrats immediately pushed back. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi directly refuted McConnell's assertion, saying in a talk at Cornell's Institute of Politics and Global Affairs, "That's just not a fact. The case is not closed." McConnell's most significant public comments yet on the investigation came as the Trump administration stymied House Democrats' attempt to acquire documents related to Mueller's investigation, as the current White House counsel replied to a subpoena that the documents remain under executive privilege. Also Tuesday, FBI Director Christopher Wray broke with another member of the Trump administration on whether the Trump campaign had been spied on during the 2016 election. McConnell opened the Senate Tuesday with a speech discussing how special counsel Robert Mueller's "exhaustive" probe went on for two years and is now complete. The remarks, which are certain to please the president, are being billed as his final thoughts on the topic. "It's finally over," McConnell said. Republicans, taking their cues from Trump, are eager to push past the investigation. But the case is anything but closed for Democrats, who are pressing for further oversight of the White House and the president's handling of the Mueller probe. McConnell questioned if others are ready to move on from the "breathless conspiracy theorizing." Mueller's results are "bad news for the outrage industrial complex but good news for the rest of the country," the Kentucky senator said. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer shot back in his own speech immediately afterward, calling McConnell's words an "astounding bit of whitewashing." He challenged McConnell to move legislation that would improve election security and be tougher on Russian sanctions. "What we have here is a concerted effort to circle the wagons, to protect the president from accountability," Schumer said. As McConnell says the Senate is moving on, the Democrat-led House is aggressively pursuing a copy of the full, unredacted Mueller report. Mueller released a redacted version to the public last month, but Democrats want to see the full document, plus underlying documents, and have scheduled a committee vote for Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for not providing it. Pelosi said in her speech at Cornell that Congress "would be delinquent" if it failed to pursue its constitutional duty of oversight. "It's about protecting our democracy," Pelosi said. Another controversy involving Barr came up at a Senate Appropriations subcommittee hearing Tuesday. Wray, the FBI director, was asked Tuesday at a Senate Appropriations subcommittee hearing whether he believes that the FBI is involved in spying when it conducts surveillance with a warrant. Barr asserted last month that the Trump campaign had been spied on. "That's not the term I would use," Wray replied, adding that different people use different language, but that the key question for him is "making sure it's done by the book." Wray declined to discuss the FBI's investigation into the Trump campaign because it's part of an ongoing Justice Department inspector general investigation. On Tuesday, House Judiciary Committee staff are set to meet with Justice Department officials for final negotiations before the contempt vote. Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler said late Monday that he hopes to make "concrete progress" toward resolving the dispute over gaining access to the report. The contempt vote would be the opening salvo in what could be a lengthy, acrimonious court battle between House Democrats and the Trump administration over Mueller's findings. The movement to hold Barr in contempt reflects the deepening rift between Democrats and Barr, whom they accuse of spinning the results of Mueller's investigation to Trump's benefit. Barr, in a memo summarizing Mueller's investigation, said there was insufficient evidence that Trump obstructed justice, a conclusion Democrats fiercely dispute. Nadler said the version of Mueller's report that has already been released to the public offered "disturbing evidence and analysis that President Trump engaged in obstruction of justice at the highest levels." Now, he said, lawmakers need the full version and the underlying evidence "to determine how to best move forward with oversight, legislation and other constitutional responsibilities." Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said that the department has "taken extraordinary steps to accommodate the House Judiciary Committee's requests for information" regarding Mueller's report but that Nadler had not reciprocated. She noted that Democrats have refused to read a version of Mueller's report with fewer redactions that has already been provided to Congress. If the committee approves the contempt resolution against Barr, it would head to the full House for final approval. But that step is unlikely to lead to criminal charges. A House vote would send a criminal referral to the U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, a Justice Department official who is likely to defend the attorney general. Yet by pursuing contempt, Democrats hope to send a message to the Trump administration about their willingness to invoke congressional powers in the majority. Beyond Mueller's report, House Democrats have, so far mostly unsuccessfully, subpoenaed administration witnesses and made efforts to gain access to Trump's personal and business financial records. Trump has said he will block those efforts, declaring he will "fight all the subpoenas." Democratic House leaders could file a civil lawsuit against the Justice Department to obtain the Mueller report, an option that could take months or even years to resolve. Some committee members have suggested they also could fine Barr as he withholds the information. They could also open impeachment proceedings against Trump, though House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has said she's not interested in doing that, for now. In another subpoena fight, Trump's current White House counsel, Pat Cipollone, told the House Judiciary Committee chairman Tuesday that former counsel Don McGahn doesn't have the right to disclose documents requested by the committee. "The White House records remain legally protected from disclosure under longstanding constitutional principles, because they implicate significant Executive Branch confidentiality interests and executive privilege," Cipollone told Re. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., according to a letter acquired by NBC News. The refusal sets up a new legal battle between the House of Representatives and the White House over executive oversight. On Monday, Trump's Treasury secretary refused to hand over Trump's tax returns, despite a law that requires the IRS to maek them available to a handful of top lawmakers if requested. Republicans have lambasted the Democratic tactics as overreach and defended Barr. The top Republican on the Judiciary Committee, Rep. Doug Collins of Georgia, said "Democrats have launched a proxy war smearing the attorney general" when their anger actually lies with the president. There is precedent for sitting attorneys general to be held in contempt of Congress. In 2012, the House held then-Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt over a botched gun-tracking operation known as Fast and Furious. Republicans cited the Justice Department's failure to turn over, without any preconditions, documents related to the risky operation. The Justice Department took no action to prosecute the attorney general. Mueller's report now a best-seller even in redacted form states that his investigation could not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump team and Russia. However, it did not reach a conclusion on whether Trump obstructed justice. Mueller didn't charge Trump but wrote that he couldn't exonerate him, either. House Judiciary Democrats say Congress is "the only body able to hold the president to account" since the Justice Department has a policy against indicting a sitting president. Authorities in Curacao say 318 people aboard a Church of Scientology ship docked in the Dutch Caribbean island will remain quarantined at least until Wednesday while they determine how many might be infected with measles. Dr. Izzy Gerstenbluth told The Associated Press late Sunday that a team of health officials took 277 blood samples and sent them to the Netherlands. He said he expects results on Tuesday or Wednesday, adding that the atmosphere on the boat is good and that everyone is cooperating. Gerstenbluth said 31 crew members and 10 passengers provided a vaccination certificate, and that the remainder were vaccinated. "But that is for the future, it will not help them now," he said. The 440-foot Freewinds ship was previously quarantined in St. Lucia after a crew member was diagnosed with measles. Authorities have said she arrived in Curacao on April 17 and visited a doctor April 22 for cold symptoms. A blood sample was taken and sent to nearby Aruba, where officials confirmed it was measles on April 29, a day after the ship had departed for St. Lucia. Curacao health officials then alerted authorities in St. Lucia. The former cruise ship returned to its home port of Curacao early Saturday. Gerstenbluth said the decision to release passengers and crew members will be made after consulting with health officials in the Netherlands and the Pan American Health Organization. Measles has sickened more than 700 people in 22 U.S. states this year, with federal officials saying the resurgence is driven by misinformation about vaccines. Symptoms include runny nose, fever and a red-spotted rash. Most people recover, but measles can lead to pneumonia, brain swelling and even death in some cases. Church officials have not returned calls for comment. According to the church's website, the ship is the home of "a religious retreat ministering the most advanced level of spiritual counseling." It says religious conventions and seminars also are held aboard. The stepfather of a girl who has been missing since Friday and who is the subject of an Amber Alert is now considered a person of interest in her disappearance, Houston police said. Maleah Davis' stepfather, Darion Vence, was the last person to see Maleah before she went missing, NBC affiliate KPRC reported. He told police that he, his 2-year-old son and Maleah were abducted Friday evening and he reported Maleah missing Saturday night while he was hospitalized in Sugar Land. He told investigators she was abducted more than 24-hours earlier by men in a pickup truck who beat him but then let him and his 2-year-old son go free, according to Houston police. Houston police Sgt. Mark Holbrook said Vence told authorities he was driving to George Bush Intercontinental Airport around 9 p.m. Friday to pick up the girl's mother when he heard a popping sound that made him think his tire was flat. He veered to the side of the road to check it, then men in a pickup truck pulled up behind him, he said. Vence told police that one of the men knocked him out and they abducted him, his 2-year-old son and Maleah. Vence told police he was in and out of consciousness until coming fully awake almost a day later, on the side of the road with his son but not Maleah, Holbrook said. In his initial interview with Sugar Land police, Vence's "story changed several times," according to a department spokesman. "His story just didn't add up," Sugar Land police spokesman Doug Adolph told The Associated Press. [[509512291,C]] Police said it was different elements that changed, such as how he got to the hospital, KPRC reported. The case has since been turned over to Houston police since it was a crime that happened in the city. Child Protective Services confirmed to KPRC that the agency received a report of allegations of physical abuse in August after Maleah suffered a head injury. According to police, Maleah has had multiple brain surgeries. Searchers are focusing on finding Maleah and a silver Nissan Altima that surveillance video showed she and her stepdad were in on Friday. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The three students who disarmed a gunman in a Colorado school shooting leapt up from their desks without a word and with no thought for their own safety when they spotted the gun, recounted one of the young men. They slammed the teenager, a classmate of theirs, against the wall and struggled with him when shots rang out. Kendrick Castillo, who led the charge, slumped to the ground. His close friend, Brendan Bialy, wrestled the gun away and called out to Castillo. There was no response, Bialy told a roomful of reporters on Wednesday as he recalled what happened the previous day at STEM School Highlands Ranch. "Kendrick went out as a hero," Bialy said. "He was a foot away from the shooter and instead of running the opposite direction he ran toward it." Authorities said the actions of Castillo, Bialy and Joshua Jones minimized the bloodshed from Tuesday's attack at the school south of Denver that wounded eight students along with killing the 18-year-old Castillo. The injured includes Jones, who was shot twice, according to a statement released by his family. Bialy acknowledged that he was scared, but he said he wasn't going to cower for shooters he repeatedly called cowards. "They lost," he said of the shooters. "They completely and utterly lost to good people." The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a 16-year-old who the Douglas County sheriff said was female but whose attorney said uses male pronouns. NBC News is not identifying the juvenile suspect, who has not yet been charged. The two allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Nui Giasoli told the TODAY show she was in class when one shooter entered and drew a gun. They "were brave enough to bring him down so that all of us could escape and all of us could be reunited with our families," Giasoli said of her classmates. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine High School and just weeks after the shooting's 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. A member of the school's robotics club and a relentless tinkerer, Castillo had an infectious smile and gentle sense of humor, according to friends. He worked part-time at a local manufacturing company that had offered him a job after an internship because he was such a standout employee. "To find he went down as a hero, I'm not surprised. That's exactly who Kendrick was," said Rachel Short, president of the company, Baccara. Cecilia Bedard, 19, had known Castillo since elementary school and said he was always friendly, modest and excited to help people. He made a point of always joining his father at Knights of Columbus fundraisers and bingo nights. "He was amazing," Bedard said. "He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke." The security guard who detained the second armed suspect was employed by Boss High Level Protection, a company started by a former SWAT team leader who responded to the Columbine shooting. The owner, Grant Whitus, told The Associated Press the security guard is a former Marine who ran to the area of the shootings and confronted one of the armed students in a hallway. The guard drew his weapon and apprehended the person, Whitus said. "He doesn't even realize how many lives he saved by stopping a school shooting," Whitus said. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. Erickson made his first court appearance Wednesday and kept his head down. His black hair, streaked with purple dye, covered his face as he nodded in response to most of District Court Judge Theresa Slade's questions. At one point, the judge requested a verbal answer to whether he had any questions about the proceedings. Erickson simply replied "No." The juvenile suspect, who has a short brown haircut, made eye contact with the judge and answered questions in a clear but quiet voice, saying "Yes, your honor" and "No, your honor." District attorney George Brauchler said he has not decided whether to file adult charges but added that the juvenile is old enough to be charged as an adult without a judge's review. Formal charges were expected to be filed by Friday. Brauchler said he could not discuss any motive or weapons used in the attack. Brauchler said the community remains resilient in the face of multiple shootings, including the 1999 Columbine school massacre, the 2012 theater shooting in the Denver suburb of Aurora and the 2013 shooting at Arapahoe High School. The attacks are "aberrant acts" although they might seem otherwise to the rest of the world, he said. "Who we are is a kind, compassionate, caring people, and this does not define us." ___ Riccardi reported from Denver. Associated Press writers Dan Elliott and Colleen Slevin in Denver and AP researchers Monika Mathur in Washington and Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this report. Jackie Carter was at home in Pennsylvania celebrating her son's 30th birthday on July 6, 2016, when she heard the news that a Minnesota man, 32-year-old Philando Castile, had been shot and killed by a police officer. Moments after the shooting, Castile can be heard saying he "wasn't reaching" for his gun. Carter, who doesn't know Castile, remembered thinking to herself, Someone has got to come up with a solution, NBC BLK reported. She's since created a small, clear identification pouch that can be attached to the driver's side air vent of the vehicle. Carter thought that would keep young men from reaching around their cars while looking for license and registration documents and setting off potentially dangerous interactions with the police. She calls the pouch Not Reaching! "I'm more fearful [for my son] in a car here than [when he's serving] in Afghanistan, Carter told NBC BLK. Since its launch three years ago, the pouch has sold more than 1,000 units, and Carter says she has given the product away to just as many drivers around her community. Valerie Castile, Philando's mother, supports Carter's product. But she also says its upsetting that its come to this having to create a device in the hopes of preventing a fatality. A company that wants to build a large, land-based salmon farm in coastal Maine has run into potential lease trouble, and opponents are hopeful it derails the project. Nordic Aquafarms plans to build the salmon farm in Belfast, where it would be capable of producing more than 60 million pounds of fish per year. The Bangor Daily News reports two groups that oppose the fish farm filed a brief recently objecting to the firm's application for a submerged lands lease. Upstream Watch and the Maine Lobstering Union say the Norwegian firm doesn't have sufficient right to cross the intertidal zone. Nordic strongly disagrees with the groups' characterization. The company's director of operations says the company is confident it will be granted a permit it needs to move forward. Police have arrested a man for what they call an unprovoked attack at a Massachusetts coffee shop. West Springfield police say in a Facebook post they responded to a Dunkin' at about 7:15 p.m. Tuesday for reports of a fight. They say the suspect, Miguel Gonzalez, stabbed the victim in the thigh "for no obvious reason." The wound was so serious that it required a tourniquet and hospitalization. Police say other customers restrained Gonzalez, and he stabbed one of those patrons. They say as Gonzalez was being led away in handcuffs, he kicked the original victim in the face as he lay on the ground. Gonzalez faces several charges including assault and battery with a knife causing serious bodily injury. It couldn't be determined if he has a lawyer. The state Senate has delayed an expected vote on legislation to ban motorists in Massachusetts from using handheld cellphones while driving. The bill, similar to ones that have cleared the Senate in previous years but stalled in the House, was originally set for debate on Thursday. No new date was immediately set. The delay appears to be procedural to give senators additional time to review more than two dozen proposed amendments to the measure, which aims to curtail distracted driving. If approved, drivers would be allowed to use their cellphones only in hands-free mode. House Speaker Robert DeLeo has said he hopes to bring a similar bill before the House as early as next week. A Massachusetts man freed from prison after serving three decades for a rape he says he did not commit pleaded not guilty earlier this week to new rape charges. Now, a victim who said she was also assaulted by George Perrot is breaking her silence for the first time. Alissa Griffin said she woke up covered in blood on a sidewalk in Andover back in May of 2018 after being beaten by Perrot. She said she was dating the 51-year-old at the time and they got into an argument while walking from a fast-food restaurant to a friend's apartment. "I felt something hit the back of my head, and then I could feel my skull showing," Griffin said. "It was protruding out of my head." Griffin was hospitalized and had to have 10 staples in her head. According to the police report, they were both under the influence of alcohol and had been kicked of a hotel before the assault. Perrot was charged with assault and battery. He later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to serve three years in prison. According to the police report, he told the officers who arrested him in Andover, "I'm not going back for another 30 years." It was a reference to the time Perrot spent behind bars for the rape of an elderly woman in Springfield. He was freed in 2016 due to flawed evidence. "The attention he got for being exonerate made it seem like he's a really good person, and people need to know that he's not," Griffin said. Griffin said she was sad, but not surprised, to see Perrot was back in court this week, accused of raping an unconscious woman on a sidewalk in Lawrence. Perrot was still on probation for assaulting Griffin when the alleged rape occurred. He pleaded not guilty in Salem Superior Court on Monday and is being held without bail. His attorney has denied the allegations. Griffin said she hopes Perrot will have to serve more time behind bars this time. She is already worried about what could happen if he is released. "I definitely fear that he'd hurt more people," Griffin said. "He's definitely capable of it." Police are investigating after a man was killed in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood on Wednesday. Numerous police vehicles and investigators were observed in the area of 66 Milton Ave. on Wednesday morning, with crime scene tape blocking the street. Boston police Superintendent Paul Donovan said police received a call around 10:05 a.m. for a person shot. "On arrival, police found an inside scene. They found an adult male with wounds," said Donovan. Boston EMS responded and declared the man dead at the scene. He was identified Thursday as 24-year-old Donell Davis of Boston. Police were looking Wednesday for surveillance video from a nearby house. "I've been living here four years," said one neighbor. "It is quiet. I always walk up and down here. No problem." TechBoston Academy, which is located nearby, was not impacted and students were released as scheduled. Wednesday was an early dismissal day. Parents, however, were concerned that children would see the crime scene. "School is about to be out soon and they're about to walk past all this and I know kids walk up this street," said Lia Dubose of Dorchester. "So they're going to see that and they're going to question what's going on. It's something they shouldn't see coming out of school." Donovan described the investigation as "active and ongoing." He would not say if police are looking for a suspect. Anyone with information is urged to call 1-800-494-TIPS or the Boston Police Homicide Unit at 617-343-4470. A vigil is planned for a New Hampshire woman who was reported missing and later found dead in the Lamprey River. The body of 25-year-old Nicole Davis was pulled from the river in Epping on Tuesday afternoon. She was last seen Sunday. Police said she had been camping with friends in Raymond, was drinking and went for a walk. They believe she drowned; her death has been ruled accidental. Raymond Police Chief Michael Labell said volunteers searching for Davis found her body Tuesday afternoon, and authorities were able to confirm her identity. A vigil was planned for Wednesday night on the Raymond Town Common. Davis was last seen around 11 p.m. Saturday after she walked away from the Pine Acres Campground on Freetown Road. "At some point, she went for a walk, and then it was reported, when she didn't return, to us, and that's when we started to search," Labell said. "She's very lovable. She's the best sister you could ask for," said Davis' brother Patrick Feddersen. "I gave her a nice big hug on Easter and said, 'I'll talk to you soon,' and 'We will make some plans for Mother's Day.'" An autopsy was planned Wednesday. New Hampshire authorities have identified the victim in a fatal shooting Tuesday afternoon at a home in Newport, according to the attorney general's office. Police responded to a 911 call for a report of a woman who had been shot at 553 Maple St. When police arrived, 75-year-old Margaret "Peggy" Clarke was found dead inside. An autopsy by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined Clarke's death was a gunshot wound to the chest. Her death has been ruled a homicide. Authorities said they have "identified all the parties involved in the incident" but have not provided any other details. Anyone with further information about the incident is urged to contact New Hampshire State Police at 603-223-4381. A woman has reported that she was robbed at gunpoint in the parking lot of a Star Market in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The incident happened Tuesday night. The suspects are said to have made off with cash. It's unsure at this time if police have any leads. Cambridge police are currently searching the area. The Star Market was located on Mt. Auburn Street. The cast of Norwich Theatre's pantomime Dick Whittington and his Cat attended a Christmas Carol concert at St Peter Mancroft Church on Thursday December 23 to spread festive cheer and the Christmas message. The cast of Norwich Theatre's pantomime Dick Whittington and his Cat attended a Christmas Carol concert at St Peter Mancroft Church on Thursday December 23 to spread festive cheer and the Christmas message. Norwich church hosts Watch Night service See in the New Year with worship! A Norwich church is holding a Watch Night service on December 31 starting at 22.45. Read more Bishop's Christmas refugee message In his Christmas message the Bishop of Norwich the Rt Rev Graham Usher, says at Christmas we look back to the story of someone who soon after his birth, became a refugee, we look back to a story to help navigate our future. Read more Ed Sheeran and LadBaby boost Waveney foodbank Pop superstar Ed Sheeran and Christmas sausage roll song group LadBaby paid a surprise visit to Waveney Foodbank near Eye earlier today. Read more Dilham musician recalls Josephs letter home What might Joseph had written if he had sent a letter home from his experiences during that first Christmas time? Read more The true gifts of Christmas Regular columnist Ruth Lilley reflects on the gifts which God gave us at that first Christmas, and continues to make freely available to us. Read more An Advent reflection from Bishop Alan Hopes In his Advent Reflection, the Bishop of East Anglia, the Rt Rev Alan Hopes says: "God is not distant, he is very close to us. In fact, in Jesus, God is one of us. Read more YMCA Norfolk needs a Senior Wellbeing Engagement Worker YMCA Norfolk is looking for a Senior Wellbeing Engagement Worker, to build relationships of trust with vulnerable and marginalised youth people within the community. Read more Norwich Foodbank needs an Administrator Norwich Foodbank is looking for an Administrator to help ensure the Christian charity can continue to serve people in food crisis. Read more Looking beyond the Nativity story Andrew Frere Smith reminds us of the hardships that were faced by the family of baby Jesus at that first Christmas. Read more Norwich churches offered Christmas food hampers Christian youth project ENYP is offering Norwich churches the chance to join its successful food poverty initiative and receive Christmas food hampers to give out. Read more Salvation Army gifts bring joy to Norwich children Salvation Army volunteers in Norwich have packed a record number of Tins and Toys boxes for their Christmas giveaway this year. Read more Covid stops Yarmouth Minster Christmas lunch Fears over the increasing spread of Covid 19 have caused the Open Christmas event at Great Yarmouth Minster on Christmas Day to be cancelled this year, but those who would have attended will be receiving goodie bags instead. Read more Norwich church requires an Administrator Holy Trinity church in Norwich wants to appoint an Administrator to help it introduce the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people of Norwich. Read more Acle churches unite for carols The churches in Acle held their annual carol concert at the Methodist Church last Sunday, and were evidently visited by the Man in Red! Read more Norwich church giving out 150 food hampers Gateway Vineyard church in Norwich is giving 150 food hampers to individuals and families across the city as part of the Love Christmas initiative. Read more Norwich church invite to sing on Saturday On Saturday December 18, Norwich's oldest chapel close to the city is holding a 'sing on Saturday' at 3pm. There is plenty of space inside to join together to sing some well-known hymns. Read more Norwich church gives city a Wonder-ful show Soul Churchs free Christmas production, The Wonder, was back bigger and better than ever this year, welcoming thousands of people from Norwich and beyond, to enjoy this Christmas extravaganza. Read more Between the pandemic and the subsequent economic upheaval, these are challenging times for everyone. But the networking industry has some elements in its favor. Technologies such as Wi-Fi, VPNs, SD-WAN, videoconferencing and collaboration are playing an essential role in maintaining business operations and will play an even greater role in the reopening and recovery phase. At the same time, it has become obvious that as enterprises continue to migrate applications to the cloud, data-center networking will cease to be a high-growth industry. So what are the most powerful networking companies doing? They're diversifying, expanding into new product areas, and moving up the stack beyond nuts-and-bolts connectivity and into areas such as hybrid-cloud management and the automation of networking processes. SEE ALSO: Smart network upgrades to consider before the next pandemic This year's list of the 10 most powerful companies in enterprise networking includes traditional networking powerhouses, with an emphasis on the extent to which they've embraced these new approaches, along with pure-play market leaders in areas such as wireless networking and hyperconverged infrastructure. (Editor's note: Power is a subjective quality, and this list is not a ranking based on simple, quantifiable metrics. Our list is ordered, with input from industry watchers, to reflect the companies that are making the biggest power moves and the broadest impact on the network industry.) 1. Cisco looks to extend hardware dominance to network monitoring, automation, security Why they're here: Cisco continues to maintain its leadership position in just about every networking hardware category. Cisco sports a 51% market share in Ethernet switch revenue, and it's the leader in combined service provider and enterprise router revenue at 37%. It dominates the WLAN market, with 44.6% market share (Aruba-HPE is a distant second at 13.9%, according to IDC.) Cisco also ranks at the top in SD-WAN equipment with a 16% market share. When the pandemic hit and workers shifted to their home networks, Cisco was sitting pretty. Not only does it have the dominant VPN, it's the only networking player that had its own videoconferencing/collaboration platform WebEx just waiting in the wings. Cloud backup vendor Backblaze issued its latest quarterly findings for hard-disk drive (HDD) reliability, and it shows a slight uptick in failure rates but hardly something to fret over. All told, Backblaze has 106,238 hard drives spinning in three data center colocations, and every quarter it highlights the failure rate of each model drive it uses. The company first came to prominence several years ago when it highlighted an abnormally high failure rate of Seagate drives. The problem arose about two years after massive floods in Thailand (around 2011) ruined the manufacturing facilities of several hard drive manufacturers, with Seagate taking it especially hard. I did some reporting back then for a now-defunct publication and found out that some corners were cut to get hard drive production going again and that those cuts resulted in a bunch of time bomb hard drives with higher than average failure rates. [ Also read: Why disk beat tape in the backup wars ] Since then, things have settled down and the Backblaze reports have gotten rather boring. There havent been any great abnormalities or problems to be had in recent years, and the one thing Backblaze noted was that consumer hard drives were often more reliable than enterprise hard drives supposedly made for the data center. One of the knocks on Backblaze is that its report covers its entire inventory, and comparing a brand-new 12TB drive to a 4TB drive that has been in deployment for a few years isnt exactly fair. Backblaze currently uses 4TB to 14TB drives, but it is retiring the 4TB drives as fast as it can. Annualized failure rates for hard-disk drives increase slightly With Backblaze's new report, things have changed. The company uses primarily HGST (owned by Western Digital) and Seagate drives with very little WD in its inventory. Over the last three years, the trend for annualized failure rates (AFR) has fallen, but with Q1 of 2019, things have gone back up. Andy Klein, director for compliance at the company, noted in a blog post that while Seagate has reduced their failure rate over 50 percent during that time [a three-year timeframe], the upward trend over the last three quarters requires some consideration." The highest AFR, at 2.6%, comes from a 12TB HGST brand, but context is everything here: They had one failed unit out of 520 deployed. Thats easily an aberration. The next highest failure rate is 2.22% for a 12TB Seagate helium drive, also a very new model. It had 180 fail out of 34,708 deployed. After that it drops to 1%, and some are in the less than 1% range. Sure, there is no doubt Seagate drives had higher failure rates than HGST drives in general, but when the failure rate is 1% vs. almost 0% you cant complain too much unless you are buying hard drives in the tens of thousands like BackBlaze does. The Annualized Failure Rate (AFR) for Q1 is 1.56%. Thats as high as the quarterly rate has been since Q4 2017, and its part of an overall upward trend weve seen in the quarterly failure rates over the last few quarters, wrote Klein. He said the company would monitor the trend going forward to see if anything new comes of it. Klein noted that while Backblaze reduced the total number of hard drives in service in Q1 by 648 drives compared to the prior quarter, the company added nearly 60 petabytes of storage. Thats due to the retirement of more than 8,000 4TB-8TB drives and replacing them with 92,000 12TB drives. BRIDGEPORT Residents of a city condo complex have agreed to cover the $235,000 cost for repairs made after flooding damaged units last September. There was a lot of discussion, a lot of anger and they voted to approve it, said Cartright Towers resident Judith Rudikoff after a meeting of the condos residents and members of the condo associations management last week. Rudikoff said the vote was 42 approving and 16 against having the residents pay the cost. The vote needed to be a simple majority, so even if 15 proxy votes counted in the polling were against, it still wouldnt change the outcome. Rudikoff said she has been told the condo residents must pay for the repairs under certain state statutes. Now, Rudikoff said, herself and a few others living in the condo are looking into retaining their own lawyer. On Sept. 25, 2018, between 5 and 7 inches of rain fell across the city in roughly two hours. Some Bridgeport residents said their house foundations cracked, their flooded basements became layered in mud and, in some cases, damage cost tens of thousands of dollars. Some neighboring Fairfield residents suffered a similar fate. Among the areas hit worst in Bridgeport were Cartright Street, Wallace Court and Renwick Drive. Eight months later, those living in the affected area said they are still fighting to get back to what they knew as normal. Residents of Cartright Towers, 80 Cartright St., were told they must pick up the $235,000 costs that insurance didnt cover. In Cartright Towers, the flooding affected the basement level of the building ruining the laundry room, several condo units, the media room/lounge area and the elevator. Rudikoff said, as far as she knows, most of those problems have been repaired, except for some damage remaining in the basement-level condo units. She said meetings began about a month ago, talking about the flooding and who would pay the the cost of repairs. They claim they have looked at money in grants and various other places and nothing can help, she said. Even the city turned to the state and the federal government for aid after the Sept. 25 downpour. Scott Appleby, director of emergency management and homeland security for the city, and his staff have been fighting to get help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The city saw more than $3 million in damages and six homes were deemed uninhabitable. On Tuesday, Appleby said he and his staff are working with 4th District Rep. Jim Himes office, asking FEMA to reconsider denying assistance to Fairfield County. He said nothing has come of that so far. We as a city are very frustrated that our home and business owners impacted are not eligible for assistance and are trying to find other avenues to assist if applicable and available, Appleby said in a prepared statement. We are still fighting! Rudikoff said that there was talk of an additional meeting of the condo residents and management in the near future about what to do moving forward. Theres talk of insurance increases as a possibility, but I dont know if itll happen, Rudikoff said. With global warming, there is a great chance that this is going to happen again ... Were so discouraged by it. Rudikoff said she has lived in her condo at Cartright Towers for more than a decade. In all that time, she has never seen anything near what happened on Sept. 25. This has never happened before, she said. I heard there was a flood years before I moved in, but since Ive been here, no, nothing like this. BRIDGEPORT What could possibly bring bitter political rivals Mayor Joe Ganim and ex-Mayor Bill Finch together in the same room? On Tuesday night, the memory of one friend, the late Ezequiel Santiago, and the political future of another, Antonio Felipe. Felipe, 23, son of former Finch aide Ruben Felipe, won Tuesdays special election to replace the late Santiago, who died suddenly in March, at the age of 45. The district the 130th includes the South and West ends and downtown. We all felt that hurt and loss, Antonio Felipe told the crowd gathered to celebrate his win at Move Yacht Club on Waterview Ave. You picked me, I ran with it and Im going to do you proud. Felipe had the support of two Democratic factions Ganims and Finchs. And that was significant given the former ousted the latter in 2015s mayoral primary. And yet Finch showed up briefly at Move on Tuesday to congratulate Felipe and his father. Other former Finch administration employees ex-Chief of Staff Adam Wood and the mayors one-time communications director, Brett Broesder were also on hand, though they did little mixing with the Ganim crowd. State Rep. Chris Rosario, who was Finchs anti-blight director, was fired by Ganim, but has had to work with him and seemed the most comfortable mingling at Move. On Tuesday night he and Ganim shared a warm hug over Felipes win. Rosario in a brief interview said he will mentor Felipe the way Santiago mentored him. And Rosario in a speech took a shot at Felipes critics. They called him young, an outsider, a carpetbagger, Rosario said. Know what they can call him now? State representative. Although Felipe grew up in the 130th District, he and his family moved to Stratford. He rented an apartment in Bridgeport when he launched his candidacy a few weeks ago. Ganim offered some emotional words of his own, noting how the night was a bittersweet one. The passing of a great man and the election of this young man has brought people together, the mayor said. He has big shoes to fill. Big shoes to fill. Unlike some of his legislative colleagues from Bridgeport, Felipe did not begin his political career as a member of the City Council or the Board of Education. He has worked for several years behind-the-scenes on campaigns. And he said he will be the youngest member of the state House of Representatives, while state Sen. Will Haskell, 22, a Democrat from Wilton elected in November, is the youngest member of Connecticuts Senate. Felipe bested four challengers to win Tuesdays special election. His main opponent was activist and former school board member Kate Rivera, 41, a Democrat who petitioned her way onto Tuesdays ballot. Rivera and Felipe were the only candidates to collect the necessary amount of small donations to qualify for $21,112 public grants as part of Connecticuts so-called clean elections program. Rivera also had support from state Sen. Marilyn Moore, D-Bridgeport, and her allies. Moore is challenging Ganim in this years mayoral race. Two former state representatives Hector Diaz, 58, and Christina Ayala, 36 and Republican Joshua Parrow, 29, also ran for the vacant 130th district seat. Felipe's campaign declared victory just short of 9 p.m. an hour after the polls closed. And, as is often the case in low-turnout Bridgeport races, he needed absentee or mail-in ballots to pull it off. According to unofficial tallies, Rivera beat Felipe on the voting machines, 290 to 240, but Felipe made up for it with mail in ballots, 226 to 53. Late last week Rivera, Diaz and Parrow called on city and state elections officials to supervise the casting of mail-in ballots. By law, mail-in absentee ballots are available from the Town Clerk to voters serving in the armed forces, away from the city on Election Day, suffering from illness or a physical disability, unable to vote for religious reasons or working as an election official. Critics argue that campaigns abuse the system and use the ballots to lock in votes ahead of Election Day by circulating them to unqualified voters and coaxing or pressuring those individuals to support a particular candidate. Campaigns can help voters obtain absentee ballots but are not supposed to influence the votes cast. Rivera in a statement issued around 1 a.m. Wednesday touted her victory at the polls and claimed Felipe stole the election through massive absentee ballot abuse and denied the people of the 130th of their choice. The Democratic machine has highlighted the corruption it perpetrates on the people of Bridgeport, Rivera said. Ruben Felipe in a brief interview Tuesday night anticipated that some of his sons opponents would complain about his winning with absentee ballots. Felipe, a veteran of Bridgeport politics, said savvy campaigns know in low turnout special elections to get out the senior citizen vote using absentee ballots. Thats not stealing, Ruben Felipe said. Thats being smart. Two veteran Democratic operatives with reputations for their expertise in racking up the mail-in votes Lydia Martinez and Wanda Geter-Pataky attended the yacht club party. Each received a round of applause. Felipe told his son that winning the special election was easy. The hard work, he said, will begin when he heads to the Capitol in Hartford and works to bring home the bacon for Bridgeport. DANBURY A Danbury woman has been accused of beating her son after the 5-year-old showed up at school with blood on his coat, police said. The 26-year-old mother was charged last week with intentional cruelty to persons/unlawful punishment a class D felony following a police and state Department of Children and Families investigation. Hearst Connecticut Media is withholding the womans name to protect the childs identity. The boy and an infant have been removed from the home, according to the mothers arrest warrant affidavit. Police said the boy went to his Danbury elementary school on Feb. 5 with blood on the sleeve of his coat. A nurse contacted DCF after police said the child told school staff that the blood was from his face because his mother hit him, according to the affidavit. The boy told the school nurse that before dropping him off at school, his mother hit him on the mouth with her hand and across the back of his legs with a belt because he dropped a phone at a friends house that morning, according to the affidavit. The nurses DCF referral noted several marks found on the boys body a small bruise on his right arm, small scratches on his left cheek, two marks across the back of his left leg and three marks across his right leg, the affidavit said. The nurse told a DCF investigator the boy appeared to have dried blood under his lower lip when he came into her office, and she had cleaned it up before DCF arrived, according to the affidavit. The mother told police that her son started acting up and broke something inside a neighbors house shortly after she dropped him off there on her way to work, according to the affidavit. She said the babysitter called her, so she went back and picked up her son, took him home and hit him with a belt before bringing him to school, according to the affidavit. The mother told detectives that her son has behavioral problems and she admitted to hitting him with a belt other times, the document states. Police later retrieved the black leather belt from a crib inside the boys bedroom, according to the affidavit. She admitted to splashing cold water on him at times because he hates it, according to the affidavit. The mother denied doing anything to her sons face and told police she didnt see any blood on him prior to dropping him off at school, according to the affidavit. She said her son has a problem with frequently getting nose bleeds, the affidavit said. The mother was released on $2,500 bond and is scheduled to enter a plea on May 30 in state Superior Court in Danbury. kendra.baker@hearst.com The Greater New Milford Chamber of Commerce will hold its next Business Scene May 16 in New Milford and a seminar, How to Grow Your Business, May 21 at the Apple Store in Danbury. The Business Scene, an informal networking opportunity, will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Cookhouse at 31 Danbury Road. A benefit dinner to support a refugee family in New Milford will be held Saturday. We are trying to support the basic needs such as rent and electricity for a mother and three children from Honduras, according to Eileen Monaghan, a member of the New Milford fundraising committee for the New Milford Refugee Relocation group. The group, created by volunteers from four religious institutions to resettle refugee families in town in 2016, is referring to itself as New Milford Refugee Settlement 2.0, since this is second time the group is helping a refugee family. Monaghan said the family is working to get asylum and is registered with ICE. Michele Shackelford, who heads up the NMRS 2.0, said one of the things that makes this case different than the groups last is that this family is seeking asylum. Asylum seekers cannot work, which makes it difficult for the mother to have funds to pay for rent, food and other needs, Shackelford said. The dinner, to take place at the New Milford United Methodist Church at 68 Danbury Road (Route 7)from 5 to 7 p.m., will provide funds toward rent. Other needs such as transportation and medical care are provided in other ways. A group of volunteers helps the family get to and from doctor appointments, school meetings and complete other errands. A New York City attorney is handling the asylum case, and local attorneys are providing support, all pro bono. A nurse monitors the familys medical needs, and the children are enrolled in school. I think were all helping because we are frustrated with whats happening at the border and how we can help, Shackelford said. If we can help just one family to integrate within a community, thats what we want to do. When the NMRR was formed three years ago, it joined a network of small local organizations that were working to help those who have had to flee their homelands seeking refuge and safety. A Danbury church and five New Milford places of worship New Milford United Methodist Church, St. Johns Episcopal Church, St. Francis Xavier Church, Faith Church and Temple Sholom recently pulled together to help the family. The cost of the dinner is $15 per person and $25 per family. General donations to help the family can be made to NMRR, c/o St. Johns Episcopal Church, 7 Whittlesey Ave., New Milford, CT 06776. Checks should be made payable to NMRR. To RSVP, email epqm09@gmail.com. A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by an East Cleveland man alleging excessive force against a pair of Euclid police officers. Lamar Wright, 38, filed a lawsuit in late 2017, about a year after the Nov. 4, 2016 incident. At the time of the incident, Wright was recovering from a surgery that required him have a colostomy bag that was meant to stay attached to his lower abdomen for six months. On the day of his arrest, Wright was driving in Euclid and pulled over into a nearby driveway to safely use his cell phone to call his girlfriend. According to his lawsuit, two men appeared at his car doors and tried to yank them open. Wright saw a gun in the hand of at least one of the men and feared they were carjackers, but soon realized they were police. Euclid police officers Kyle Flagg and Vashon Williams, stopped, searched and seized Wright without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, the lawsuit alleges. During the course of the seizure, the lawsuit states Flagg grabbed and twisted Wrights arm and discharged a Taser at Wrights stomach area. At the same time, Williams discharged pepper spray into Wrights eyes, nose and mouth. Wright was seated during what his attorneys called a vicious and unprovoked attack. In a video of the incident, one of the officers can be heard saying that he thought Wright had a gun. The lawsuit states that Flagg caused Wright extreme pain when he twisted his arm. Wright cried out several times that he was hurting his arm, but was ignored. It also states Wright was terrified that by twisting his body in the car seat, Flagg might severely damage his colostomy bag and surrounding tissue and organs. Wright was falsely and maliciously charged with obstructing official business, resisting arrest and criminal trespass, the lawsuit reads. Wright also was issued traffic citations for driving under suspension, driving without headlights on and failing to use a turn signal. Seven months after his arrest, all charges were dismissed against Wright. According to court documents, the officers said they suspected Wright was involved in drug activity because he had just come from a house that was suspected of drug activity. Wright had pulled into the driveway of the suspected house, stayed in the car and spoke to a person who was in the house out of the sight of the officers. Wright was driving a rental car, which U.S. District Judge Donald C. Nugent wrote in a 25-page decision is common practice of people who traffic in drugs in order to prevent their identification. Thus, when the car pulled into a different driveway, the officers had reasonable suspicion that Mr. Wright may have been involved in a drug transaction, and they had justification to perform an investigatory stop, Nugent wrote. Nugent also wrote that the officers were justified in approaching with weapons drawn because they had objective reason to believe Wright was involved in drug activity and reasonable suspicion that he may have a weapon. Further, Officer Flagg, seeing the reverse lights come on as the officers approached had reason to believe that he was about to reverse the car into the path of the two officers and was, therefore, justified in drawing a weapon for his protection, Nugent wrote. He also said the officers were justified in their use of a Taser and pepper spray. Nugent wrote that Wright did not tell officers he had a medical issue preventing him from following directions and the officers, at the time, were completely unaware of any such disability. Therefore, (Wrights) resistance and failure to follow commands appeared to officers to be an attempt to struggle and avoid removal from the car, and could reasonably have been perceived as an attempt to reach a weapon. A new study has shown that social media has a trivial effect on teenagers in terms of life satisfaction. The study titled, Social medias enduring effect on adolescent life satisfaction was published in the latest issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Applying transparent and innovative statistical approaches we show that social media effects are not a one-way street, they are nuanced, reciprocal, possibly contingent on gender, and arguably trivial in size, the authors write. There has been a lot of speculation related to the ill effects of social media on teenagers. The results showed that the girls reduced the use of social media because they felt discontented. Similar results were not seen among boys, they noted. Prof Andy Przybylski, coauthor of the research from Oxford University explained, 99.75% of a young persons life satisfaction across a year has nothing to do with whether they are using more or less social media. Image Credit: Burdun Iliya / Shutterstock According to Przybylski it is not the time spent on social media that can affect the wellbeing of the children. He explained, It is entirely possible that there are other, specific, aspects of social media that are really not good for kids or that there are some young people who are more or less vulnerable because of some background factor. He said that parents need to talk to their children about their experiences on social media rather than crying wolf about its ill effects. Amy Orben, first author of the research, also from Oxford University said, Just as things went awry offline, things will also go awry online, and it is really important for that communication channel to be open. The researchers said that there have been many studies that show the negative feelings associated with social media use. The team looked at data from 12,672 teenagers aged between 10 to 15 years from United Kingdom between 2009 and 2016. They analyzed over 2,000 different questions in different ways. They also included different aspects of a teens home life. Finally the results revealed that there was no actual link between life satisfaction and time spent on social media by teenagers. They found that different children showed up different results as well as individual children also showed different results with time. They then took an average look at all these analyses and found that children who are on social media are only slightly more likely to be dissatisfied with life. The variables that the team used included, How many hours do you spend chatting or interacting with friends through a social website like [Bebo, Facebook, Myspace] on a normal school day? (5-point scale); (ii) six statements reflecting different life satisfaction domains (7-point visual analog scale); and (iii) seven child-, caregiver-, and household-level control variables. Orben explained, Changes in an adolescents media use can explain only 0.25% of changes in their life satisfaction one year later. Vice versa, fluctuations in their life satisfaction can only explain 0.04% of changes in their social media use one year later, which is a tiny effect as well. They also looked at gender differences. They noted that among girls the effects was slightly more evident. Girls were more likely to feel dissatisfaction with life, school life, school work, family and friends when exposed to social media for longer. The effects of time spent on social media did not have an effect on satisfaction with appearance among the girls though said the researchers. General dissatisfaction among the girls led to reduction in their time spent on social media they noted. The authors agree that one of the major problems of this study that the time spent on social media was self reported by the teenagers. In addition the exact activity of the children on social media or social platforms was not noted. Prof Liz Twigg from Portsmouth University is another researcher who is also working on the effects of social media on teenagers. She lauded this study saying, As the authors themselves recognise, no study like this provides definitive evidence, but this one certainly provides compelling evidence. In population terms, social media use may not be the source of harm for childrens mental health that we often think. Dr. Max Davie, a spokesperson for the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health in a statement said, This paper suggests that social media has limited effect on teenage life satisfaction. We recommend that families follow our guidance published earlier this year and continue to avoid screen use for one hour before bed since there are other reasons beside mental health for children to need a good night's sleep. Social media and depression Researcher Yvonne Kelly from the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London and her colleagues published a paper this January in the Lancet titled, Social media use and adolescent mental health: Findings from the UK Millennium cohort study. The study was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council. Their objective was to assess if social media use in teenagers was associated with depressive symptoms in them and also investigates other causes of depression among these teenagers including online harassment, sleep, self-esteem and body image. The team included 10,904 14 year olds from the UK Millennium Cohort Study and noted that social media affected girls more than boys. They compared children with 1 to 3 hours of daily time on social media with children using these media for 3 to 5 hours. The latter showed a 21 and 26 percent increase in depressive scores among boys compared to girls. Similarly compared to low use vs over 5 hours social media use, the increase in scores was 50 percent in girls compared to 35 percent in boys. There were other factors among heavy users including online harassment, poor sleep, low self-esteem and poor body image, write the authors. Authors concluded, Findings are highly relevant for the development of guidelines for the safe use of social media and calls on industry to more tightly regulate hours of social media use. Social identity formation Researchers led by Betul Keles who is a faculty from Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery Kings College London also studied the effects of social media on depressive and anxiety symptoms among teenagers. Their study titled, A systematic review: the influence of social media on depression, anxiety and psychological distress in adolescents was published in the International Journal of Adolescence and Youth in March 2019. Theirs was a systematic review in which they looked at effects of social media on psyche of teenagers from previous studies that have been published. They found 13 studies that were relevant for their purpose and covered a total of 21,231 teenagers. Their analysis looked at variables related to teenagers and social media including, time spent, activity, investment and addiction. They noted that these four aspects were all strongly correlated with depression, anxiety and psychological distress among the teenagers. The authors write, Adolescence is the period of personal and social identity formation, and much of this development is now reliant on social media. Due to their limited capacity for self-regulation and their vulnerability to peer pressure, adolescents may not evade the potentially adverse effects of social media use, and consequently, they are at greater risk of developing mental disorder. Baltimore Guest post by Evie Blad A senior official in the U.S. Department of Education has dismissed concerns about a Trump administration school choice plan from a conservative think tank as outright fearmongering. Jim Blew, the assistant secretary for planning, evaluation, and policy development, dismissed the criticisms from the Heritage Foundation, a right-leaning think tank that strongly supports educational choice, during a discussion at the Education Writers Association National Seminar on Tuesday. DeVos has teamed up with GOP lawmakers to back legislation creating $5 billion in annual tax credits to catalyze state school choice efforts. If Congress approves it, the Education Freedom Scholarships would provide dollar-for-dollar federal tax credits to individuals and businesses that contribute to scholarships for private schools and various educational services. They argue the plan would give families options in areas where traditional public schools arent meeting their childrens needs. And states would be free to opt out of the program, they say. But Heritage, which is often aligned with the Trump administration on policy issues, has argued that future administrations could tie strings to the tax credits, giving them more say over what happens in public schools. Its concerns come as DeVos has spent her tenure reversing Obama-era directives on civil rights issues, like transgender students and school discipline, that were viewed as federal overreach by many on the right. In short, Heritage believes that however well-intentioned any proposal might be, school choice should simply not be a federal issue. Outside of the community of school choice advocates, opponents of the Freedom Scholarships, including teachers unions, argue that it would drain resources from traditional public schools and take the focus off of systemic efforts to improve education across the board. But when asked by Education Week about the smartest argument against the proposal, Blew bypassed those concerns from choice opponents, and spotlighted the misgivings of the Heritage Foundation instead. We have support from American Federation for Children, Americans for Tax Reform, Excellence in Education, but Heritage Foundation is a standout in that they refuse to come on board and its for a fascinating reason, Blew said, sitting beside American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten. Theyre worried that the next presidentand they personify it usually with [Sen.] Elizabeth Warren or [Sen.] Kamala Harriswill somehow subvert everything that Ted Cruz and Betsy DeVos have set up and that somehow a future administration will use the tentacles of the federal government to undermine private schools in this country. And I have to say its a tough argument for me to respond to because its just outright fearmongering, and I dont know how to respond to that. And, while DeVos and other department officials have rejected the suggestion that the scholarship plan would use public funds, some are worried that the proposal would redirect what should be tax revenue for the federal government into private hands. Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 . And follow Evie Blad on Twitter @EvieBlad . Sunscreens are one of the most essential means to protect oneself from the harmful UV rays of the sun and protect oneself from skin cancer. Skin cancer, say health officials, remains one of the most common cancers diagnosed in the United States. Millions of people use sunscreens with an SPF of over 15 when stepping out. New studies are focussing on the safety of these sunscreens for long term use. A recent trial called MUsT or maximal usage trial looked at the long term use and safety of sunscreens. The study was titled, Effect of sunscreen application under maximal use conditions on plasma concentration of sunscreen active ingredients: a randomized clinical trial. The study results were published yesterday (6th of May 2019) in the latest issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. This pilot study was conducted by the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, an arm of the US Food and Drug Administration. Image Credit: Rawpixel / Shutterstock The researchers looked at four commonly available sunscreen products that are used maximally in a population. They observed the amount of the drug absorbed via the skin when applied over it maximally as directed by the manufacturers. Results revealed that all of the four active ingredients present in the formulations of sunscreen were absorbed via the skin. The researchers add that there is no evidence that these ingredients are unsafe but say that more studies are necessary to evaluate the safety of these ingredients when they are absorbed via the skin. They also state that most of the safety tests are part of a products approval and need to be conducted before it is available for use. Same is true for each of these ingredients, the authors of the study assure. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now strictly regulates sunscreens like other drugs and formulations and has the same stringent set of rules that go into their approval. As part of the new rule, the FDA has called upon manufacturers to come up with extensive safety data on 12 active ingredients present in commonly available sunscreen formulations. The FDA states that ingredients that are absorbed 0.5 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter) or higher in blood need to undergo strict safety tests to see if they could lead to cancers or birth defects in the users. According to this latest study, these four ingredients in question have a higher than the 0.5 ng/mL absorption in blood. Their safety is not yet ascertained. The study focuses on maximal use of these products as well as their use in young children and in pregnant women. The authors explain that as the sunscreens become more powerful and broad spectrum to protect against the UV rays of the sun, the concentrations of their key ingredients tend to rise. First author Murali K. Matta and colleagues included 24 healthy participants who applied the 4 commercially available sunscreen formulations. The randomized clinical trial was conducted at a phase 1 clinical pharmacology unit. The four ingredients they studied included avobenzone, oxybenzone, octocrylene, and ecamsule. They were asked to apply 2mg of the sunscreen per 1 cm2 to 75% of body surface area 4 times per day for 4 days. The team collected 30 blood samples over 7 days from each of the participants. Maximum plasma concentrations of Avobenzone in the 2 sprays, lotions and creams respectively were 4.0 ng/ml, 3.4 ng/ml, 4.3 ng/ml and 1.8 ng/ml. For oxybenzone similarly the values were 209.6 ng/mL, 194.9 ng/mL, 169.3 ng/mL for spray 1, 2 and lotion respectively. For octocrylene absorption level was 2.9 ng/mL, 7.8 ng/mL, 5.7 ng/mL and 5.7 ng/mL for 2 sprays, lotion and cream respectively. For ecamsule the values were 1.5 ng/mL for the cream. Rash was the commonest side effect observed with the use of the sunscreens. The authors conclude, The systemic absorption of sunscreen ingredients supports the need for further studies to determine the clinical significance of these findings. These results do not indicate that individuals should refrain from the use of sunscreen. Dr. David Leffell, a spokesman for the American Academy of Dermatology and Yale School of Medicine dermatologist, in a statement said, Studies need to be performed to evaluate this finding and determine whether there are true medical implications to absorption of certain ingredients. Scott Faber, senior vice president for government affairs at the Environmental Working Group, or EWG, in his statement said, The sun is the real enemy here... It's not news that things that you put on your skin are absorbed into the body. This study is the FDA's way of showing sunscreen manufacturers they need to do the studies to see if chemical absorption poses health risks. A decade old study from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had looked into the levels of oxybenzome in the urine samples of participants and found it in 97% of the samples. Oxybenzome present in the sunscreens is linked to hormonal changes in boys, shorter pregnancies and low birth weights of babies etc. Oxybenzone in sunscreens is also known to cause contact allergies. Hawaii has since then banned the use of oxybenzone and octinoxate in sunscreens because it could damage the marine ecosystem and bleach the corals. The European Union too has eliminated oxybenzone from sunscreen products. But oxybenzone remains in use in the US with at least two thirds of the sunscreens sold in nation containing the chemical. Commeting on the latest study, former FDA Chairman Dr. Robert Califf assured that the results of the study do not mean these ingredients are unsafe. The Personal Care Products Council, the national trade council for sunscreen, cosmetic and personal care product chief scientist, Alex Kowcz said, The presence of sunscreens in plasma after maximal use does not necessarily lead to safety issues. It's important for consumers to know that for the purpose of this study, sunscreens were applied to 75% of the body, four times per day for four days -- which is twice the amount that would be applied in what the scientific community considers real-world conditions. She added that reports of this kind may dissuade the general population from using sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends application of at least 1 ounce of sunscreen on the exposed parts of the skin every two hours or after swimming. Thought Leaders Mohit Nair Qualitative Research Manager Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) An interview with Mohit Nair, discussing the issue of antibiotic resistance in India and the work that Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) (Doctors Without Borders) is carrying out to improve awareness and reduce the misuse of antibiotics. What are the main drivers of antibiotic resistance in India? There are multiple drivers of antibiotic resistance in India, including the overuse of antibiotics in veterinary applications, agricultural applications, and clinical applications for human health. Over-the-counter use of antibiotics, in particular, is a major driver in India. Digital Deliverance | Shutterstock Our study found that patients frequently demand the shortest possible course of treatment and routinely switch healthcare providers to seek the fastest cure possible. Their first point of contact with the health system is often a chemist shop or an informal, untrained health provider outside urban settings. These providers frequently disburse antibiotics as quick cures or first aid treatment and are often visited by pharmaceutical company representatives to prescribe newer analogs of antibiotics. Inadequate public health infrastructure, poor sanitation, and infection control practices in the primary healthcare system increase demand for parallel markets and further contribute to the overuse of antibiotics. What conditions are antibiotics typically being used to treat in India? Antibiotics are used to treat a host of clinical conditions in India, including bacterial infections as well as viral infections. In our study, we found that several formally trained medical doctors knew that antibiotics were not useful for viral infections, but prescribed or provided them anyway in some cases due to inadequate access to lab testing facilities, limited opportunities for follow-up of patients, and as a precautionary measure to compensate for poor sanitation and infection control practices. We also noticed that antibiotics were irrationally prescribed for upper respiratory tract infections in several cases, even though these infections tend to be viral in nature. A few medical doctors also reported prescribing antibiotics for routine diarrheal ailments. How dangerous is it to continuously provide antibiotics as a prophylactic treatment for patients in the hospital, for example? Using antibiotics as a prophylactic measure can be indicated for various reasons. However, previous studies have shown the possible risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections as a result. Several doctors reported that they prescribed antibiotics to patients in the outpatient setting as a precautionary measure to compensate for poor sanitation and infection control practices in the community. Antibiotics were consequently seen as a precautionary measure to prevent future infections. It is crucial to implement standard infection control practices and ensure judicious management of antibiotics in order to ensure their effectiveness when required. How are pharmaceutical companies contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance? Our study found that representatives from pharmaceutical companies not only visited allopathic doctors in the formal medical system but also managed to tap into the interconnected networks of informal providers in Paschim Bardhaman district. Approximately 58% of all surveyed informal providers (n=96) described pharmaceutical company representatives (PCRs) as their primary source of knowledge around antibiotics. Hanna Kuprevich | Shutterstock These representatives often left medical literature with providers regarding the latest antibiotics on the market and even provided free samples of antibiotics for distribution. As such, the ability of pharmaceutical companies to target providers even within the most remote corners of a district in West Bengal often contributes to the irrational overuse of antibiotics. Another important element worth mentioning is the fact that pharmaceutical companies play a crucial role in drug development, and the development of new antibiotics on the market has not kept pace with antibiotic resistance. At an upcoming MSF Scientific Day, you will give a talk entitled Without antibiotics, I cannot treat. What do you mean by this, and how widespread is this opinion in the Indian medical community? The quote comes directly from an informal health provider who was interviewed during the course of our study. Among informal health providers, antibiotics are seen as a vital part of patient care and treatment. Patients frequently switch providers and demand quick cures, and informal providers are keen to satisfy patients or they risk losing them to other providers. In the formal medical system, the primary healthcare system is often plagued with inadequate infrastructure, poor access to diagnostic tests or laboratory culture facilities, inadequate sanitation, and infection control practices, and poor antibiotic stewardship practices. The doctors in our study frequently reported disbursing a 3-day course of antibiotics to compensate for inconsistent treatment adherence and to encourage follow-up assessments when patients come to refill antibiotics. Many doctors also reported providing antibiotics as a precautionary measure to prevent future infections. The MSF Scientific Day will take place on the 9th May 2019 at the Royal Society of Medicine, London. Click here to read the research agenda. What is MSF doing to reduce the overuse of antibiotics in India? MSF has conducted numerous workshops and behavior change communication sessions with stakeholders in the community to raise awareness about appropriate antibiotic use. During the course of the acute febrile illness project in West Bengal, MSF held a joint rally in collaboration with ANM Nursing School in Asansol District and conducted a workshop called Antibiotic Resistance: Broader Implications for Humanity in Gupta College of Technological Sciences, Asansol. MSF also held numerous stakeholder consultation meetings with the Indian Medical Association, technical experts at the Asansol District Hospital, Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine, and multiple district and state level authorities in West Bengal. In other MSF projects such as our Holistic Center of Care for Advanced HIV in Patna, Bihar, we have been implementing antibiotic stewardship guidelines to prevent overuse, conducting prescription audits to understand patterns of use, and ensuring that standard infection prevention and control measures are in place. iviewfinder | Shutterstock How can people support the work of MSF, both in India and other countries? Please follow our social media pages and website to find out ways to contribute to the work MSF does both in India and worldwide. With respect to antibiotic use, always ensure that you comply with your doctors advice and take the right antibiotic for the right dose and duration. Do not purchase or consume antibiotics over-the-counter without consulting a doctor. Where can readers find more information? Please take a look at the MSF website to read about our former project in West Bengal and to find out more about our current projects. About Mohit Nair Mohit Nair is a qualitative research manager with MSF in India. He holds a Master of Public Health degree from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. His previous projects include understanding perceptions of care and treatment amongst advanced HIV patients in Bihar, assessing the drivers behind antibiotic use in West Bengal, and evaluating the quality of life of HIV-Kala Azar patients in Bihar. Prior to joining MSF, Mohit worked as a research consultant with Save the Children in Laos to understand the gaps in the primary health system and develop a district-wide action plan for children with disabilities. About Medicins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) translates to Doctors without Borders. We provide medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare. Our teams are made up of tens of thousands of health professionals, logistic and administrative staff - bound together by our charter. Our actions are guided by medical ethics and the principles of impartiality, independence and neutrality. We are a non-profit, self-governed, member-based organization. MSF was founded in 1971 in Paris by a group of journalists and doctors. Today, we are a worldwide movement of more than 42,000 people. Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is better than a tape measure for assessing a woman's risk for developing lymphedema, painful swelling in the arm after breast cancer surgery, according to interim results of a study led by Sheila Ridner, PhD, RN, Martha Ingram Professor and director of the PhD in Nursing Science Program at Vanderbilt University School of Nursing. The multisite international study compares the two methods for identifying women who should be prescribed compression sleeves and gauntlets to reduce lymphatic fluid in the arm and prevent progression to lymphedema. BIS surveillance reduced rates of progression by approximately 10%, a clinically meaningful improvement. Interim findings from the study were published May 3 in Annals of Surgical Oncology and Ridner presented the analysis during the annual meeting of The American Society of Breast Surgeons in Dallas. "The bioimpedance device measures lymphatic fluid, and the tape measures much more than that," said Ridner, a researcher with Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. "It takes more lymphatic fluid to make your whole arm volume change than it does to make the device pick up changes. The device is just more sensitive to changes in lymphatic fluid." Breast cancer-related lymphedema affects between 20% and 30% percent of women due to damage to the lymph glands from surgery, radiation and some medicines, Ridner said. Lymphedema not only causes swelling in the arm, it can be physically debilitating and puts women at greater risk for infections as well as psychological stress. The results are an interim analysis of an ongoing controlled trial called PREVENT, launched in 2014 and led by Ridner. The analysis involved 508 participants who had been monitored for a year or longer. Participants identified at risk for lymphedema received compression sleeves and gauntlets and were instructed to wear them 12 hours daily for 28 days to prevent progression to lymphedema. Patients who developed lymphedema reached their endpoint with the trial and were referred to clinicians for complex decongestive physiotherapy (CDP). "CDP is resource intensive and costly," Ridner said. "Lymphedema therapists are not accessible everywhere and mostly are in metropolitan areas. You go an hour-and-a-half in any direction outside of Nashville, for example, and we can't find people to treat these patients." Clinicians have traditionally used tape measures to monitor breast cancer patients for lymphedema, but that method can vary greatly depending upon how a clinician does this. "Tape measure is the most commonly used method around the world even though it is fraught with error," Ridner said. "To get accurate measurements for a research study, there is an incredible amount of training to teach all the sites in this international study how to measure the same way. I do annual fidelity oversight visits to every single site to make sure there has not been any slippage in the protocol." BIS is a painless and noninvasive procedure that entails running an electronic signal through the body. The technology is similar to electronic monitors for body mass index, but much more refined. Although the study showed that participants in the BIS experienced reduced rates of progression to lymphedema requiring CDP, the tape measure group triggered an intervention more often and earlier. The median time that triggered an intervention in the tape measure group was 2.8 months versus 9.5 months for the BIS group. "It is possible that at three months post-surgery in some patients there remains a generalized, whole-arm inflammatory response that is identified by tape measure," the analysis states. "Increased extracellular fluid may not be a major factor in that volume change." Ridner and the research team will evaluate the factors associated with triggering for both groups going forward. "We had statistically significant more people trigger an intervention that were in the tape group than in the BIS group, which was contrary to what many people thought would have happened in the study. One of the concerns about BIS in general was that it might generate false positives and we might psychologically distress people," Ridner said. "That was never my experience in the 15 to 16 years I've been working with the technology." It was early morning in an operating theater at Providence Hospital in Portland, Ore. A middle-aged woman lay on the operating table, wrapped in blankets. Surgeons were about to cut out a cancerous growth in her stomach. But first, an anesthesiologist Dr. Brian Chesebro put her under by placing a mask over her face. Now Im breathing for her with this mask, he said. And Im delivering sevoflurane to her through this breathing circuit. Sevoflurane is one of the most commonly used anesthesiology gases. The other big one is desflurane. There are others too, like nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. Whichever gas a patient gets is inhaled, but only about 5% is metabolized. The rest is exhaled. And to make sure the gas doesnt knock out anyone else in the operating room, its sucked into a ventilation system. And then? Its vented up and out through the roof, to mingle with other greenhouse gases. The two frequently used gases are fairly similar medically; sevoflurane needs to be more carefully monitored and meted out in some patients, but thats not difficult, Chesebro said. Generally, unless theres a reason in a particular case to use one over the other, anesthesiologists simply tend to pick one of the two gases and stick with it. Few understand that one desflurane is much worse for the environment. And that bothered Chesebro. He grew up on a ranch in Montana that focused on sustainability. Part of growing up on a ranch is taking care of the land and being a good steward, he said. Now he lives in the city with his three kids and has gradually started to worry about their environmental future. When I look around and I see the stewardship on display today, its discouraging, he said. I got depressed for a while, and so I hit the pause button on myself and said, Well, whats the very best that I can do?' He spent hours of his own time researching anesthesiology gases. And he learned desflurane is 20 times more powerful than sevoflurane in trapping heat in the Earths atmosphere. It also lasts for 14 years in the atmosphere, whereas sevoflurane breaks down in just one year. Opening a big, black notebook filled with diagrams and tiny writing, he showed how he computed the amount of each gas the doctors in his group practice used. Then he shared their carbon footprint with them. All Im doing is showing them their data, Chesebro said. Its not really combative. Its demonstrative. One of the doctors he shared his analysis with was Dr. Michael Hartmeyer, who works at the Oregon Anesthesiology Group with Chesebro. I wish I had known earlier, Hartmeyer said. I would have changed my practice a long time ago. Hartmeyer said he was stunned when Chesebro explained that his use of desflurane was the greenhouse-gas equivalent of driving a fleet of 12 Hummers for the duration of each surgical procedure. Its only half a Hummer if he uses sevoflurane. Hartmeyer noted that outside the operating room he drives a Prius, a hybrid electric car. You try to be good, he said. You take shorter showers or [dont] leave lights on, or whatever else. But you know theres always more that we could probably do. But this was, far and away, a relatively easy thing that I could do that made a huge impact. The anesthesiology carts that get brought into operating theaters tend to have a row of gases to choose from. Hartmeyer was able to switch pretty much overnight. Other anesthesiologists made the switch, too. And it didnt hurt that sevoflurane is considerably cheaper. Hartmeyers change saved his hospital $13,000 a year. When Chesebro shared his findings with the anesthesia departments at all eight Providence Health hospitals in Oregon, they prioritized the use of sevoflurane. They now save about $500,000 a year. Providences chief executive, Lisa Vance, said the hospital system didnt change its use of the gas because of the money. It changed because the World Health Organization now says climate change is the No. 1 public health issue of the 21st century and because of Chesebro. Vance said Chesebro teared up in front of 2,000 people when talking about the gas, his children and the Lorax character created by Dr. Seuss. Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothings going to get better its not, said Vance, quoting the book The Lorax. Dr. Jodi Sherman, an associate professor of anesthesiology at Yale School of Medicine, called Chesebros efforts remarkable and important. She said several hospitals around the country have tried to make this shift, but with mixed results. Some just gave anesthesiologists the information and not much changed. Other hospitals took desflurane away, but that left many anesthesiologists feeling disrespected and angry. Chesebro succeeded, she said, because he chose to persuade his colleagues using data. He showed doctors their choice of gas plotted against their greenhouse impact. And it helped that he showed them over and over, so doctors could compare their progress to their peers. Providing ongoing reports to providers is the best way for this movement to catch on and grow, she said. It can reinforce over time, she added, not just what their carbon footprint is, but also what progress theyre making. Sherman said efforts such as Chesebros are sorely needed because the U.S. health sector is responsible for about 10% of the nations greenhouse gases. We clinicians are very much focused on taking care of the patient in front of us, she said. We tend to not think about whats happening to the community health, public health because were so focused on the patient in front of us. In an emailed statement, one of the largest manufacturers of both the anesthesia gases Baxter International said its important to provide a range of options for patients. The company also said inhaled anesthetics have a climate impact of 0.01% of fossil fuels. The overall impact of anesthetic agents on global warming is low, relative to other societal contributors, especially when you consider the critical role these products have in performing safe surgical procedures, the statement reads. Its a fair point, Chesebro said, but he has a counterargument. Well, if its there, its bad. And if I can reduce my lifes footprint by a factor of six why wouldnt you do it?' The surgery Chesebro was involved in that morning at Providence was a success. Chesebro estimates that by using sevoflurane on his patient, the amount of greenhouse gases produced was the same as in a 40-mile drive across the Portland region. If hed used desflurane instead, he said, it would have been like driving the more than 1,200 miles from Seattle to San Diego. Now Chesebros hospital bosses are hoping other doctors will follow his lead, research their own pet peeve and maybe solve a problem no ones thinking about. This story is part of a partnership that includes Oregon Public Broadcasting, NPR and Kaiser Health News. Ziath has announced a unique combination of instruments that ensures the correct 2D coded tubes are automatically withdrawn from storage racks without the huge expense of a fully-robotic tube picking system. The Mohawk tube selector from Ziath is a cost-effective semi-automated unit for selecting 2D-bar coded tubes from their storage racks, an ideal solution for many medium-throughput applications such as compound management and biobanking. The real power of the new Ziath solution comes from the built-in operational verification and tractability afforded by linking a Ziath CMOS-camera-based scanner directly to the Mohawk picker. The control interface software allows a rack of tubes to be scanned and decoded so that tubes to be picked by the Mohawk can be identified by their individual bar codes. Once the Mohawk has ejected the tubes from their parent racks, a daughter rack can be assembled manually. This is then verified on the same scanner to ensure that only the correct tubes have been selected from the parent rack(s). Alternatively, the Mohawk tube selector software can use an imported pick list, generated in an Excel spreadsheet, LIMS or inventory management program, to select which tubes to pick. As before, the daughter rack(s) can then be verified on the connected Ziath scanner. Using the powerful combination of the Mohawk semi-automated tube selector with a Ziath Cube, Express or Mirage scanner enables verifiable tube selection for the creation of daughter sample sub-sets both quickly and easily with full tractability throughout. Source: http://www.ziath.com/ Working with their colleagues from the University of Lyon, researchers from MedUni Vienna's Center for Pathobiochemistry and Genetics have discovered mutations in genes that regulate the metabolic sensor mTOR in patients with familial sarcoidosis. The results of this new study have now been published in the "European Respiratory Journal". At the same time, a clinical trial is starting at MedUni Viennas Department of Dermatology to test the efficacy of mTOR inhibitors in the treatment of sarcoidosis. Sarcoidosis is a disease in which nodules of immune cells form, primarily in the lungs but also in the skin or in the heart. While the lung symptoms are similar to those of tuberculosis, the etiology of the disease is unknown. It is currently assumed that causation is multifactorial, whereby certain environmental impacts and bacterial pathogens trigger sarcoidosis in genetically predisposed individuals. For example, there was a rise in the number of cases of sarcoidosis among fireman who were deployed during 9/11, due to the enormous dust burden to which they were exposed. Also, the bacterium responsible for causing acne is found in the pulmonary granulomas of many patients. Working with their colleagues Alain Calender and Yves Pacheco from Lyon, a research team led by Clarice Lim and Thomas Weichhart has now identified a genetic component that is involved in development of the disease. By conducting a genome analysis of families in which there are clusters of sarcoidosis, the study, which was published in the European Respiratory Journal, shows that the metabolic sensor mTOR plays a central role in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis. In addition to this, the exome, which is the coded portion of the genome, of 22 people from 5 families was sequenced. Thomas Weichhart says: The unique thing about the study design was that it allowed us to analyze patients and their unaffected siblings over three generations in some families. In this way we were able to identify mutations that were passed on exclusively to patients but not to their healthy relatives." Following detailed bioinformatic analysis, it was found that many mutations relate to genes that normally deactivate the metabolic sensor mTOR. Lead author Clarice Lim explains: "The mutations then result in mTOR being more active, so that these nodules, so-called granulomas, are more readily able to form." Thomas Weichhart's working group had already demonstrated in an animal model that the activation of mTOR in immune cells is sufficient to cause sarcoid granulomas to form. The new data now show that, on a genetic level as well, mTOR contributes to the development of sarcoidosis in patients. Georg Stary from MedUni Vienna's Department of Dermatology is currently conducting a clinical trial to test a therapeutic application of this relationship. A study funded by the Vienna Science and Technology Fund (WWTF) is to investigate the efficacy of the mTOR inhibitor Sirolimus in sarcoidosis patients with skin and pulmonary involvement. Sarcoidosis patients are still being sought for this clinical trial and an information event for patients will be held on 23 May 2019 starting at 18:30 hrs, with leading experts in sarcoidosis treatment and research at MedUni Vienna (interested parties should please email: [email protected]). The international sarcoidosis community is eagerly awaiting the results of the study, which, with the aid of the very latest molecular single-cell sequencing methods courtesy of Thomas Krausgruber from the CeMM, will provide new insights into the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis. But, most importantly, a new therapeutic option would benefit patients, since, in many cases, the available treatments for chronic sarcoidosis are less than adequate. Service: European Respiratory Journal Exome sequencing and pathogenicity-network analysis of 5 French families implicate mTOR signalling and autophagy in familial sarcoidosis. Alain Calender, Clarice X. Lim, Thomas Weichhart, Adrien Buisson, Valerie Besnard, Pierre Antoine Rollat-Farnier, Claire Bardel, Pascal Roy, Vincent Cottin, Gilles Devouassoux, Amelie Finat, Stephane Pinson, Serge Lebecque, Hilario Nunes, Dominique Israel-Biet, Abderazzaq Bentaher, Dominique Valeyre, and Yves Pacheco, in the frame of GSF (Group Sarcoidosis France). doi.org/10.1183/13993003.00430-2019 Scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University with colleagues from Great Britain Germany, China, and Switzerland have proposed a new way of delivering anti-thrombosis drugs to the damaged areas of the blood vessels. According to the proposed system, stents that are installed to expand vessels also serve as transport for drugs: they are covered by a thick film of a biodegradable polymer with small cavities -the so-called micro-chambers. They contain molecules of medicinal compounds. Their task is to improve the effectiveness of the installed stent and to prevent the further development of thrombosis. The study results were published in the European Polymer Journal (IF 3.741, Q1). Vascular stenosis, caused by various reasons, leads to the fact that the cardiac muscle suffers from the lack of oxygen. After some time it can lead to the development of coronary heart disease. In order to expand vessels, doctors resort to stenting that implies the introduction of a special stent into the vessel, that serves a framework for the vessel. The stent itself is a small metal tube out of wire cells. Associate Professor Sergey Tverdokhlebov from the TPU Weinberg Research Center says: 'Drug-eluting stents with polymer coatings for vascular surgery are already being produced. We propose an approach that allows you to control the release of drugs from polymers, that is, to adjust the rate of drug release for prolonged impact' Yulia Zykova who is a co-author and engineer at the TPU Laboratory for Plasma Hybrid Systems, says: 'Our colleagues from the Queen Mary University of London initially proposed such a system for tackling the issue of loading low molecular weight water-soluble substances. These include some anti-cancer, anti-thrombosis drugs, and antibiotics. Due to the small size of molecules, it is difficult to place in the delivery system and hold in place. Such micro-chambers on the polylactic acid film are good containers for the molecules. In Tomsk Polytechnic University we proposed using the films for vascular stents.' The micro-chambers are obtained using silicon stamping tool with small grooves. It is dipped in a solution with polylactic acid and then dried, which is how the first film layer is obtained. Then it is dipped in a solution with biologically active substance again, where the molecules naturally fill the cavities and covered with another polymer layer. The stent is literally wrapped in a film. When the stent is expanding, the film is also stretching. It is possible to influence the release rate of the drug molecules using, for example, ultrasound. Sound waves accelerate the process of polymer destruction and hence the rate of release of microcapsules contents. By adjusting the power of ultrasound the scientists can control the rate of release of molecules from the micro-chambers. Yulia Zykova notes: 'We present data on unloading such system of a water-soluble dye that was a model solution in the published article. In our experiments, it took the model dye 13 days to release from micro-chambers. Now we start working with real medicinal substances that prevent the formation of blood clots.' For many people who care for aging parents, one solution is a safe, responsible nursing home. But an increasingly common means of ensuring that safety -- security cameras installed by relatives -- may do more harm than good, says Clara Berridge, an assistant professor of social work at the University of Washington. With reports of crimes against nursing home residents gaining media attention around the country, it's understandable that families would want to protect their loved one and attempt to establish accountability for care, Berridge said. But in articles published late last winter in AJOB Empirical Bioethics and Elder Law Journal, Berridge outlines the list of legal and moral issues that surveillance raises. "The use of cameras in resident rooms is so common that some states have passed laws to help families and facilities navigate the legal issues. But it's not just a gray zone for law. Lots of ethical issues are at play, and it raises the question of privacy's role in our lives." At least 10% of Americans ages 60 and older are believed to have been the victim of some form of elder abuse, whether physical, sexual or psychological, or in the form of financial mismanagement or a deprivation of resources such as food or medication. (Cases are believed to be underreported, making the 10 percent figure a low estimate.) While most abuse is committed by relatives, the high-profile nature of crimes against nursing home residents by facility staff can alarm anyone whose loved one is in residential care. This is especially true for families of people with forms of dementia, because those residents are less likely to be able to accurately report abuse. So far, seven states, including Washington, have passed laws allowing placement of surveillance cameras in the rooms of nursing home residents. In the Elder Law Journal article, Berridge and her co-authors analyze each state's law and conclude that for each law, privacy concerns remain. For the study published in AJOB Empirical Bioethics, Berridge distributed an online survey through the Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research at Brown University to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. More than 270 facilities from 39 states responded to the anonymous survey, which included specific and open-ended questions about policies and use of surveillance cameras. Of the caregiving facilities that responded, some 11% had initiated use of cameras on their premises. In this survey, the majority of respondents cited privacy and dignity of residents as key disadvantages to cameras. By their very nature, surveillance cameras record all of the activity in a room, including personal moments such as hygiene or dressing. From a crime-prevention perspective, those are times when a resident is most vulnerable, but from a privacy perspective, the resident may not want such footage to be recorded, let alone viewed. Tied to questions about privacy is the issue of consent, Berridge said - not only whether the resident has the capacity to consent to being monitored, but also, in the case of two-person rooms, whether the roommate can consent. "Most nursing home residents have a roommate. Protecting their privacy when a camera is in the room would be very difficult in practice, especially if the camera picks up audio," Berridge said. "We found that the real-life constraints on opportunities to selectively move or cover a camera in a given situation are not acknowledged in the state laws. These are chronically understaffed settings." A less-cited -- and often overlooked -- issue, Berridge added, is the legal responsibility the camera owner has for the security of the feed. Installing a camera without establishing a secure portal can expose the resident (and a roommate) to hackers. Respondents to the survey pointed to potential advantages of cameras, as well, particularly as deterrents to abuse, and to use by the facilities themselves to inform about individual residents' needs and as resources to help staff improve. Ultimately, Berridge and her co-authors say that while cameras may offer families some comfort, they aren't the answer to preventing abuse, or a proxy for accountability. Rather, the focus should be on reform and increased funding for the long-term care system so that nursing homes and assisted living facilities are sufficiently staffed, with employees paid a living wage. Berridge points to a "culture change" movement in long-term care that aims to deinstitutionalize nursing homes and make them more home-like. This movement involves practices to improve care quality, enhance person-centeredness, and empower staff. In Washington, lawmakers this year passed the Long-Term Care Trust Act, which establishes a publicly funded source of long-term care insurance. The measure, which awaits Gov. Jay Inslee's signature, may help people pay for in-home services as an alternative to nursing home care. Berridge recently received a four-year, nearly $500,000 grant from the National Institute on Aging to develop a self-administered tool to help people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia and their families understand and make decisions about the use of a range of technologies that remotely monitor people in their homes for their safety, including webcams. Unlike cameras in nursing home rooms that are aimed at potential abusers, technologies addressed in this study are used to monitor older adults' activities and behaviors. It's easy, Berridge explained, for adult children to overlook, or even dismiss, the concerns of a parent when it comes to issues of monitoring care, and the parent's right to privacy and sense of freedom. "This tool will be the first of its kind to support families to navigate the complex technology landscape and guide them in balancing their perceived need for ongoing surveillance and the older adult's dignity and wishes," Berridge said. If there's one area of health care where Republicans and Democrats might strike a deal, it's prescription drugs. President Donald Trump has floated a plan to cut drug prices. Democratic and Republican ideas abound in Congress, where lawmakers have put more than 40 bills on the table. In 2018, 39 states passed 94 laws targeting pricing and costs. Florida's House recently approved a move backed by the state's Republican governor to allow imports from Canada. So far, Vermont is the only state to take that step. Why do prescription drugs draw so much attention? Because millions of Americans rely on them, and 8 out of 10 say the cost is unreasonable. America spends about $460 billion a year on these drugs, roughly as much as the combined revenues of the top three car makers. That spending flows mainly in two ways: retail drugs sold at pharmacies, and drugs provided by doctors and other clinicians at hospitals, outpatient clinics and long-term care centers. Retail drugs account for about 10% of all health care spending. The doctor-administered drugs add about another 6% to 7%. Tracking the money challenges the savviest of analysts. Between the drugmakers and the patients lie an array of middlemen, who end up masking the true prices through discounts to one another and rebates to patients. Here are a few benchmarks to help you navigate the realm of prescription drugs. Out-Of-Pocket Costs With all the focus on affordability, it's worth noting that about a third of all retail prescriptions come at no cost to the patient. Another half have an out-of-pocket cost of under $10. In recent years, the average out-of-pocket cost has fallen from about $10 to a bit over $8. There are several reasons, including company rebates, better drug cost protections through the Affordable Care Act, and greater use of generic drugs, which are cheaper than brand-name drugs protected by patent. But just because the pressure has eased on average doesn't mean the financial burden isn't intense for the relative few. A small number of people and prescriptions accounted for a huge share of the estimated total out-of-pocket costs of $57.8 billion in 2017. The Federal Bill Grows Even if most individuals are cushioned from rising drug prices, taxpayers, through the federal government, are not. Spending skyrocketed after the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit took effect in 2006 and has continued to rise rapidly since. U.S. Drug Prices Are Higher One reason states such as Florida are interested in importing drugs from Canada is many drugs are cheaper there. The Commonwealth Fund, a New York-based health policy group, compared a basket of common drugs (of the retail sort) in the United States and several other countries. Using the American cost as a benchmark of 100, it calculated the cost in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland and Australia. Germany was the closest match to the American price tag, but Canada, the U.K. and Australia were all about half the cost. Other studies reached the same general result. The U.S. Health and Human Services Department looked at the top 27 Part B drugs (physician-administered drugs) and found that for 20 prices were higher in the United States. A Canadian-American research team looked at spending on primary care drugs in America and 10 other nations, including all of the ones in the Commonwealth study. It found U.S. spending was about twice as high as the average elsewhere. Broadly, the United States spends more on drugs because prices for many drugs are higher, and patients, usually on the advice of a doctor, take newer, high-cost drugs. Follow The Money One of the reasons the prescription drug market poses a challenge to lawmakers is because it has many moving parts. On the payer side, there are patients, the government and employers. On the receiving end are drugmakers, wholesalers, health care plans, pharmacies and pharmacy benefit managers, which are firms that negotiate prices on behalf of payers. The money moves around a lot, but policy analyst Allan Coukell at the Pew Charitable Trusts modeled the flow among all the players to estimate how much money ended up with each one. For 2016, the drugmakers were the top gainers, with $204 billion (on the retail side), but the pharmacies also did well with about a quarter of the total. Lobbying Ever since the passage of the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit, pharmaceutical companies have invested heavily in lobbying. There was a spike in 2009 as Congress debated the Affordable Care Act, but after a short dip, spending rose again and now stands at $281 million, about where it was nearly a decade ago. No industry group spends more on lobbying by a long shot. The insurance industry came in a distant second at $158 million on lobbying last year. The drug industry can't ignore the big proposals in Washington that could change the landscape, said Georgetown University researcher Jack Hoadley. Both Democrats and Republicans, including the White House, have bills to peg American prices to prices in Japan and Europe. There are bills to let the government negotiate directly with drug companies to reduce prices in the Medicare program. Among the public, that approach enjoys broad bipartisan support, with 80% of Republicans and 90% of Democrats in favor. The fact that the administration, congressional Republicans and Democrats are all talking about drug prices is putting all stakeholders on edge, Hoadley said. Michael Cohen, President Donald Trump's longtime personal attorney, claimed to have helped prevent the release of personal photographs embarrassing to Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. shortly before the influential evangelical leader endorsed Trump's insurgent presidential bid in 2016. Cohen made the assertion, which was first reported by Reuters, in a phone call in March with actor Tom Arnold. Arnold provided The Washington Post with a recording of the call Tuesday night. "There's a bunch of photographs - you know, personal photographs - that somehow, the guy ended up getting," Cohen said on the call. The person who had the photos, who is not identified on the call, was demanding money from the Falwells, and Cohen threatened to report the person to legal authorities, according to Reuters. Reuters reported that the alleged episode took place months before Falwell's surprise endorsement of Trump. Arnold told The Post that Cohen told him it occurred during the presidential race. A statement released by an attorney for the Falwells called the account "not accurate." "While the Falwells have a long-standing friendship with Michael Cohen, they never engaged or paid Cohen to represent them in any legal or other professional capacity, and Cohen did not ever resolve any legal matter on their behalf," the statement said. The attorney, who declined to be named, said in a follow-up text message that "there are no compromising or embarrassing photos of Falwell, period!" Lanny Davis, a spokesman for Cohen, declined to comment. Cohen began serving a three-year prison sentence on Monday for tax evasion and campaign-finance violations. Arnold, a staunch critic of the president's, said he became friends with Cohen last summer, adding that the longtime Trump confidant sees him as an ally. Arnold said Cohen did not know that he was recording their March conversation at the time, but Arnold said that he subsequently told Cohen that he had recorded it. He said he indicated to Cohen that he would release details about the Falwell portion of their conversation after Cohen went to prison. "He knows I'm going to help him," Arnold said, adding: "I said, 'As soon as you go in: Jerry Falwell Jr.' " Last month, Arnold shared with the Wall Street Journal his March 25 phone call with Cohen, who began his three-year prison term on Monday after pleading guilty to tax, bank and campaign-finance crimes. In the phone call, Cohen denied responsibility for some of his crimes. The longtime Trump fixer said he kept a copy of one of the Falwell photos on his phone, Cohen told Arnold on their March 25 call. It is unclear what the photos allegedly depicted. Cohen described the images as "photos between husband, wife, and the whole bit." "I actually have one of the photos," he said on the recording. "It's terrible." Falwell's early support of Trump was seen as crucial, giving the candidate a key stage in front of evangelicals, an important group of voters for Trump. He delivered a glowing welcome to Trump during a campaign visit by Trump to Liberty University in 2016 and formally endorsed him. His continued support for Trump after the "Access Hollywood" video was released was seen as critical to the Trump campaign, although some graduates returned their diplomas over Falwell's support. "Jesus said 'Judge not, lest ye be judged,' " Falwell wrote in an essay for The Washington Post in 2016. "Let's stop trying to choose the political leaders who we believe are the most godly because, in reality, only God knows people's hearts. You and I don't, and we are all sinners." As recently as this week, Falwell made headlines for his lavish praise of Trump. The president shared a tweet over the weekend in which Falwell declared, "Trump should have 2 yrs added to his 1st term as pay back for time stolen by this corrupt failed coup." According to the Reuters report, the Falwells asked Cohen for help with the photographs around the time Cohen was working with Liberty University to promote Trump's candidacy in 2015. Cohen flew to Florida, met with a lawyer for the person with the photos and informed him that his client was breaking the law, Reuters reported. Arnold said that Cohen described the Florida trip to him. Ultimately, the lawyer told Cohen that all of the photos were destroyed, Reuters reported. "I was going to pay him and I was going to get the negatives and do an agreement where they turn over all technology that has the photographs or anything like that, any copies," Cohen told Arnold on the call. "And it never happened. The guy just either deleted them on his own or what have you." Along with religious leaders such as evangelist Franklin Graham and Florida megachurch pastor Paula White, Falwell is seen as one of Trump's most prominent religious supporters. He is the son of the late televangelist Jerry Falwell Sr., a megachurch pastor who helped to organize religious conservatives especially in the 1970s and '80s. Falwell has taken the school his father started in 1971 in Lynchburg, Virginia, and expanded it into one of the largest Christian universities in the world, with more than 100,000 students. Last year, the university released a film suggesting Trump had fulfilled a divine prophecy. One of the largest universities in the country, Liberty is seen as an innovator in online education and has become a prominent platform for politicians to visit. Trump gave a commencement address there in 2017, and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., spoke there in 2015. Falwell is expected to welcome Vice President Mike Pence to deliver the university's commencement address on Saturday. BEDFORD A Bedford woman pleaded guilty Tuesday to embezzling around $100,000 from her grandchildren by taking the payout from their fathers life insurance policy. Frances Milazzo Ireland, 71, wept and gasped as she apologized to her two grandchildren in Bedford Circuit Court before being sentenced. Im sorry. I dont know what happened, she said. Court documents state David Peter Ireland designated his two children, currently aged 15 and 19, as beneficiaries in his life insurance policy. In late November 2014, about two months after he died, his mother received more than $100,000 as custodian of the funds, since his oldest daughter Skyler was still a minor at the time. Bedford Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Stephanie Ayers said Frances Ireland opened bank accounts in her grandchildrens names and used the money from her sons policy to support her own gambling habit. Taking the witness stand, both teens and their mother all asked for some jail time for Ireland. Their mother, Jessica Reynolds, said Ireland hasnt shown remorse for what happened or repaid any of the money. Documents in a civil case to recover the payout money, which was filed soon after Irelands eldest grandchild turned 18 in August 2017, state Ireland never provided any accounting of the life insurance funds when requested to do so. Bedford Circuit Court Judge James Updike signed off on a default judgment in favor of the grandchildren in November 2017, ordering the money to be repaid in civil court. Because of that, Ayers said she couldnt order Ireland to pay back her grandchildren in the form of criminal restitution. Ayers asked for a five-year suspended sentence for Ireland with three years of supervised probation. Court records indicate Ireland was first charged and arrested in September. Webster Hogeland, who represented Ireland, said she admitted to her gambling problem and lost everything she had. He added her husband had nothing to do with what happened. Ireland intends to pay her grandchildren back, he said. Updike said that in 41 years working in the courthouse, he has found theres usually a good reason for terms in a plea agreement. Before signing off on the plea agreement, he said he understands the victims might feel Irelands sentence isnt enough. Though judgment has been entered favoring her grandchildren, the civil cases involving Ireland are still open. The attorney representing Irelands grandchildren couldnt be reached Tuesday. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. So who will enforce our laws? Upon learning that the Trump administration is refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena requesting the president to turn over his tax records, it makes one wonder what can the Democrats do to compel the White House to follow the law. It also makes me wonder why we Americans are always bragging about the checks and balances provided by the Constitution, which, incidentally, provide very little as to how these laws can be enforced in a speedy and practical way, especially since many judges are appointed by and terrified not to support the administration. These same judges might give a nobody 50 years for stealing a loaf of bread, though. The law in question says the executive branch shall not may turn over such tax records upon request. If the president refuses to comply with the request, he is in contempt of Congress. Now that President Trump has refused to comply, what might the Democratic leadership do to enforce compliance before he leaves office? Apparently, very little. The Constitution, while well-written and tough-sounding, cannot be enforced at the presidential level, especially if the president is corrupt and without honor. To make matters worse, the Democrats dont seem to have a clue as to how to address this matter. They seem to be forming a circular firing squad, which will surely snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic Party leaders want to be seen as consummate negotiators and compromisers, which is not what the electorate wants. It makes them look weak. Republicans love this because they will then be able to string it out until after the presidential election in November 2020. The Supreme Court is just as divided as the country, so any ruling from them will only add to the confusion because the majority of the justices are terrified of Trump. The authors of the Constitution were forward-thinking men with honorable intentions, but the fact is that in many of todays issues involving the executive and judicial branches, the Founding Fathers didnt have a clue. So, give due credit to the Founding Fathers for their great contributions, but lay off the yeast. KENNETH G. OGLESBY Lynchburg Two years of achievements With all the denigration of President Trump by the biased press, I thought it might be well to list some of his accomplishments since 2016. The presidents tax cut helped create 1.4 million jobs. More Americans are employed than ever before. Economic growth in the last quarter was 3.2 percent. Unemployment claims are at a 49-year low. African-American, Hispanic and Asian-American unemployment rates are at the lowest rates ever. More than 3.9 million people are off food stamps. Many Obama-era business regulations have been cut to free up businesses and stimulate action. Two conservative Supreme Court justices, Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, have been confirmed. Net exports are set to increase by $59 billion. America is thriving thanks to President Trump. FLO TRAYWICK Lynchburg Editors note: The writer is a former member of the Republican National Committee representing Virginia. In 1986, she challenged the late Rep. Jim Olin, D-Sixth District, for the House of Representatives. A way to tackle global warming I am asking folks to ask their congressman and senators to support H.R. 763, the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act which is now proceeding through committees in the House of Representatives. This act is a market-based proposal which puts a price on carbon at its source of extraction and returns the revenue collected to all families as a dividend. The REMI (Regional Economic Model Inc) study determined that the approach this act proposes would reduce greenhouse gas emissions along with positive economic and health benefits. We have been kicking this global warming/climate change can down the road now for more than 30 years, and it is time to address this existential problem. The longer we deny or drag our feet, the more it will cost in lives and treasure in the future. Call your congressman and senators; ask them to support the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act. JAMES BARTON Monroe GamesRadar+ is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more The MCU future of the Kingpin may be a mystery, but Marvel Comics has an answer Marvel Comics has already provided the perfect way for Kingpin to keep going in the MCU the complete review - fiction A Devil Comes to Town by Paolo Maurensig general information | review summaries | our review | links | about the author Italian title: Il diavolo nel cassetto Translated by Anne Milano Appel - Return to top of the page - Our Assessment: B : familiar kind of story, but interestingly twisted See our review for fuller assessment. From the Reviews : "This nested narrative is an entertaining exploration of the manifold powers -- creative, confessional, corrupting -- of fiction." - Publishers Weekly "It wouldn't be a Maurensig if the entertaining fable did not have dark seams." - Desmond O'Grady, Sydney Morning Herald Please note that these ratings solely represent the complete review 's biased interpretation and subjective opinion of the actual reviews and do not claim to accurately reflect or represent the views of the reviewers. Similarly the illustrative quotes chosen here are merely those the complete review subjectively believes represent the tenor and judgment of the review as a whole. We acknowledge (and remind and warn you) that they may, in fact, be entirely unrepresentative of the actual reviews by any other measure. - Return to top of the page - The complete review 's Review : A Devil Comes to Town comes in several layers, first-person accounts nested in one another. It begins with an author who, after his first great success -- as Maurensig had with his The Luneburg Variation --, begins receiving manuscripts from hopeful authors looking for advice and help in publishing them. In the course of disposing of them he comes across a manuscript entitled 'The Devil in the Drawer' (which is also the original Italian title of the novel) -- an anonymous submission, without a return address or any indication of who wrote it. 'The Devil in the Drawer' is also narrated in the first person; for convenience sake, the reader of the manuscript calls the author/narrator 'Friedrich' ("a name that I feel suggests a pale, blondish, aspiring writer rambling through the valley's of Switzerland") and then presents a mix of longer passages from Friedrich's manuscript, as well as summary of some of the rest. The gist is that in September 1991 Friedrich travelled to the Swiss town of Kusnacht, by Lake Zurich -- where Carl Gustav Jung lived and died, he notes (and Thomas Mann lived in the 1930s -- which he doesn't mention, though there are other references to that German master). There he met a priest, Father Cornelius, who warns him about the devil -- and literature, "a dangerous endeavor". Specifically, he warns that: "Without knowing it, the writer can become a formidable egregore" -- a term Friedrich is not familiar with, and which Father Cornelius describes as: "a chain reaction caused by univocal thinking" (a not unJungian concept ...) -- including as a sort of mass delusion. Then Father Cornelius relates a tale of his own encounter with the devil, presented verbatim here and making up the bulk of the novel; the author and Friedrich's remarks were essentially preamble and introduction, and Friedrich and the author tie things up again in a brief coda, but the heart of the novel is Father Cornelius' long story. It takes place in another Swiss town, which Father Cornelius does not want to identify by name -- giving it instead: "a predictable name: I'd say Dichterstube ("poet's repose") suits it perfectly". It is a town of about a thousand souls, a summer tourist spot but otherwise sleepy town whose one claim to fame or source of pride is that the greatest of German writers, Goethe, spent a night there. Father Cornelius was sent as vicar to the town, to assist the aging local priest, but found the locals a hard nut to crack. Only when he discovered the town's secret, was he able to make some inroads: I discovered that everyone in Dichterstube wrote, or at least that there wasn't a single family that did not count an aspiring writer in its midst. Incredible ! Everyone was a poet, short-story writer, historian, or novelist ... There was no other place in the world with such a high number of would-be writers. And they all submitted their manuscripts to the large publishing houses, which invariably rejected them and returned them to the sender. It was strange that people who were so reserved and reticent, even toward their confessor, were willing to disclose their secrets provided there was a chance they would see them in print. A great many skeletons came out of closets, were taken by the hand and made to perform in a shambling danse macabre. - M.A.Orthofer, 8 May 2019 - Return to top of the page - : World Editions publicity page Einaudi publicity page Gatopardo Ediciones publicity page See Index of Italian literature - Return to top of the page - About the Author : Italian author Paolo Maurensig was born in 1943. - Return to top of the page - Bailey's Taproom hosts The New School's 2019 New Oregon Breweries Showcase for Portland Beer Week. The New School is proud to present our annual New Oregon Breweries Showcase at Bailey's Taproom on Monday, June 10th. This all-day event showcases 10+ new breweries, all that have opened within the last year. Each brewery (and one cidery) will pour two beers or ciders and you can meet the brewers/owners of each spot from 5-8pm. What makes this event especially unique is that The New School gathers brewers from across the state, many of which have never been on tap outside of the brewery. The lineup will include breweries from Portland all the way to Bend and Gleneden Beach. The New Oregon Breweries Showcase is a FREE event to attend, beers will be individually priced by the glass or pint as usual. Here is a sneak preview of four of the brewers and the one cidery that will be at NOBS, with 6 more to be announced. Porter Brewing A new brewery out of Redmond, OR, Porter Brewing Co. stands out by focusing on cask conditioned real ales. Porter Brewing will serve one beer on cask and another gravity-poured firkin on the bar for this event. Read more about Porter Brewing here. Beachcrest Brewing The Oregon coast beer scene is improving year after year. Beachcrest Brewing is a small new taproom and brewery in Gleneden Beach, just south of Lincoln City that's gaining some buzz. Owners Amy White and brewer Matt White will be in attendance from 5-8pm. More info on Beachcrest Brewing here. Freehand Brewery A new nano-farmhouse brewery out of Eugene, Oregon, Freehand Brewing already has great word-of-mouth for their authentif Belgian-styles and farmhouse ales. From their excellent saison and Flanders Red to balanced fruit mixed culture beers with peaches and cherries. All of Freehand's beers are in caged and corked 750ml bottles but the occasionally keg some beers which will be on hand for this event. Read more about Freehand Brewing here. Super Brewing Nano breweries are still all the rage, but it's not so easy to brew lagers when you are only a few barrels of production. Their small size and production has not prevented Super Brewing Co. for going all in on lagers, their German-style Pilsner was awarded #2 in the judges choice at the Nano Beer Fest. Read more about Super Brewing here. Son of Man Cider Oregon's first Basque-style cidery, Son of Man is making gorgeous tart, funky, rustic hard cider in Oregon's gorge using natural fermentation. These Spanish-style ciders are the funky brett saisons of the cider world and really show off nuance of both the yeast profile and the apples. Read all about Son of Man Cider here. The rest of the 2019 New Oregon Breweries Showcase and the full beer list will be revealed soon. For now, check out our event page and spread the word. (Newser) It started out innocuously enough: In September 2010, Larry Ray came to stay with his daughter at Sarah Lawrence College. Sophomore Talia Ray lived with seven housemates in a campus dorm called the Slonim Woods 9, and the 50-year-old became the de facto house dad. Then he began "counseling" some of the roommates through their issues, and from there, the story takes a sharp turn into a land of conspiracies, psychological manipulation, and bizarre behavior. In a lengthy piece for the Cut, Ezra Marcus and James D. Walsh pose the key question at the outset: "What happened to the group of bright college students who fell under the sway of a classmate's father?" Here's how it progressed: When summer came, a number of them moved with Larry to a one-bedroom condo on East 93rd Street in Manhattan owned by a friend of Larry's. story continues below Larry always had a backpack with him with a "wad of cash" inside; he had a limo ferry the kids around and would foot the bill for pricey meals and clothes. He pounded amphetamines and barely slept. He had unusual connections, chief among them Bernie Kerik (things went really south between the men). He started instructing some of the students to have sex with each other; he would watch or participate. He took the locks off the bathroom doors. He demanded they pay him tens of thousands for items they had supposedly damaged. No one questioned any of it. One student told his parents he'd kill himself if they didn't give him the $47,726.79 Larry said he owed him. Those parents estimate they forked over upwards of $200,000 over three years. The police said nothing could be done as their son was over 18; they haven't heard from him since 2013. Two girls swallowed a bottle's worth of Tylenol and were hospitalized. One bizarrely claimed she attempted suicide because she felt guilty about trying to poison Larry, claiming her parents had told her they'd pay her $1 million to go after him. Read the story in full here. (Read more Longform stories.) (Newser) In 2011, a decomposing body was found on the side of a dirt road in Moldova; the man was carrying Igor Vorotinovs passport and other identifying documents, and soon his ex-wife, Irina, traveled from Maple Grove, Minn., to Moldova to identify the body as that of her ex. A funeral was held for the Minnesota man back in the US, Irina cashed in on a $2 million life insurance policy, and the following year, one of the couple's two grown sons was visiting a family friend in Moldova when he ran into his fathervery much alive, but using a fake name. He didn't tell authorities, but in 2013, another tipster did, and US Customs and Border Protection detained the son and his fiancee after one of their trips to Moldova. After years of investigation and searching for Vorotinov, he was arrested in Moldova last year and extradited to the US. On Friday, the 54-year-old pleaded guilty in federal court, the Washington Post reports. story continues below Prosecutors want a 41-month prison sentence when Vorotinov is sentenced in July. Irina, 52, was sentenced to 37 months in prison after pleading guilty in 2016; authorities say she was in on the scheme all along and staged a "sham funeral," intending to split the life insurance money with her ex. And the 29-year-old son pleaded guilty in 2015 to not reporting the scheme once he uncovered it; he was sentenced to three years of probation. "We now know that there really was a body found in a field in Moldova. The government executed a search warrant on the urn at Lakewood Cemetery, and it really contained human remains," federal prosecutors wrote in court documents, alleging that Moldovan officials, police, morgue employees, and the medical examiner were all in on the scheme. (Irina had the body cremated in Moldova, the St. Paul Pioneer-Press reports.) But prosecutors have not revealed how the Vorotinovs procured a dead body on which to plant Igor's ID. (Dad vanished while swimming. Then story "started to crumble.") (Newser) Turns out Kim Kardashian is doing more for convicted criminals than anyone knew. The reality TV star, who's advocating for criminal justice reform, has quietly helped free inmates serving life-without-parole sentences on everyday drug charges17 of them in all, TMZ reports. Seems Kardashian is funding the 90 Days of Freedom campaign started by her lawyer, Brittany Barnett, who's working with attorney MiAngel Cody of the Decarceration Collective. Empowering them is the new First Step Act for inmates facing harsh sentences. President Trump signed it into law last year. story continues below Among those released are Jamelle Carraway, who was arrested at age 31 and got a life sentence for cocaine possession; he's now back home in Illinois after serving 11 years. Another is Eric Balcom, who's back in Florida after serving 16 years of a life sentence without parole. There's also Terrence Byrd, who served 25 years for drug possession and returned home to his 96-year-old grandmother. And Kardashian isn't alone: TMZ reports that Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, herself a lawyer, is working with Barnett to free another inmate who got life in a low-level drug case. (Kardashian plans to become a lawyer, too.) (Newser) A recent college graduate from New Mexico who had just landed his dream job as a fishing guide in Russia was among those killed when an airliner burst into flames during an emergency landing in Moscow, the AP reports. Jeremy Brooks, 22, of Santa Fe was remembered Monday as a fly-fishing expert by his former boss Ivan Valdez, owner of The Reel Life fishing shop. Valdez said Brooks recently graduated from Colorado College in Colorado Springs after majoring in environmental science. Brooks was on his way to work as a fishing guide in northwest Russia, a job he coveted after having a passion for fly fishing since he was 7. story continues below Valdez told the Albuquerque Journal that he hired Brooks at 16 as a guide for his shop as soon as the teen got a driver's license. "He never had a mean bone in his body," said Valdez, who described Brooks as more of a son than an employee. "He had it all to offer the world. I never heard a bad complaint against him." Marco Rossetti, who went to high school with Brooks at Santa Fe Prep, struggled to talk about the death of his friend. "Aside from the point of fishing, because that's not all he was, he was the best person. He was there and had any friend's back better than anybody," Rossetti told the Journal. "I have more respect for him than any other person on this planet. And now he's not on this planet." (More on the tragedy here.) (Newser) Authorities say at least seven people have been injured in a shooting at a suburban Denver school, the AP reports. Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said Tuesday that two suspects have been taken into custody in the shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch. She says there's a possible eighth injury and doesn't believe there are any other shooters, but tactical teams are still searching room by room. Nicholson-Kluth didn't know if there are fatalities or other details about the victims or the extent of their injuries. She said the shooting started in the middle school area and shots were being fired as officers arrived. (Deadly school shooting was "inspired by Columbine.") (Newser) President Trump was losing staggering amounts of money during the years he was building a reputation as a business genius, reports the New York Times, which says it has obtained printouts of Trump's tax transcripts from 1985 to 1994. During the years in question, Trump's core businesses, including hotels and casinos, lost a total of $1.17 billion and he posted bigger losses than almost any other individual American taxpayer, according to the transcripts. The Times reports that according to the annual IRS sampling of high-income earners, Trump posted losses of more than $250 million in 1990 and 1991, more than double those of any other taxpayer listedand because of the losses, Trump only paid income tax in two of the 10 years in question. story continues below Trump has blamed his business losses on the recession that started in 1990, though the figures show that he was already losing a lot of money by 1987, when The Art of the Deal was published, the Times notes. The newspaper says it did not obtain Trump's actual tax returns, but obtained printouts of the official IRS tax transcripts from "someone who had legal access to them." Trump lawyer Charles Harder tells the Times that the information is "highly inaccurate," though the newspaper says similar transcripts for Trump's father, Fred Trump, match his tax returns. The Times notes that Trump was able to keep up his billionaire lifestyle despite the losses because most of the money belonged not to him, but to banks and investorsand because he "secretly leaned on his father's wealth to continue living like a winner." (Treasury Secretary Stephen Mnuchin has told Democrats he won't provide them with Trump's more recent tax returns.) (Newser) Michael Cohen says he helped Jerry Falwell Jr. with a highly personal matter months before the evangelical leader endorsed President Trump in 2015, according to a conversation taped by Tom Arnold. Arnold says he was waiting for his friend Cohen to go to prison before he released the recording of the March phone call, in which Trump's former lawyer claims he helped Falwell deal with somebody who had come into possession of racy "personal" photos that would normally be kept "between husband and wife," the Washington Post reports. Cohen claimed that the photos were destroyed after he spoke to an attorney for the person who had the images and was demanding money from the Liberty University president and his wife, reports Reuters. story continues below "I actually have one of the photos," Cohen says in the recording. "It's terrible." Arnold says Cohen didn't know he was being recorded at the time, but he later told the lawyer the recording existed and he would release details after Cohen started his sentence in federal prison. Sources tell Reuters that Cohen later helped persuade Falwell to support Trump, though they say there's no sign that the endorsement was connected to the personal matter. Fox reports that Falwell told Todd Starnes on Fox Radio Tuesday that "no compromising or embarrassing photos" of him exist and reports that say otherwise are "not accurate." "While we have a long-standing friendship with Michael Cohen, we never engaged or paid Cohen to represent us in any legal or other professional capacity, and Cohen did not ever resolve any legal matter on our behalf," he said. (Falwell recently said Trump should have his first term extended by two years.) (Newser) Two students are in custody after opening fire on their classmates at a Denver-area charter school Tuesday, police say. Sheriff Tony Spurlock says the suspectsone adult and one juvenilewere taken into custody within around two minutes of reports of shots being fired at the STEM School Highlands Ranch, the Denver Post reports. Authorities say an 18-year-old man was killed and eight other students were injured. "We know that two individuals walked into the STEM School, got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations," Spurlock says. "There were a number of students that were shot and injured." The adult in custody has been named as Devon Erickson, 18. Spurlock says the injured students are all age 15 or older, the AP reports. story continues below Authorities, who say the suspects had at least one handgun, have not commented on a motive. The Post reports that a Honda sedan with the words "(expletive) society" on the door and a pentagram with the numbers "666" on the hood was towed from the Erickson family home Tuesday night. Spurlock says the school, which has more than 1,850 students in kindergarten through 12th grade, doesn't have a resource officer assigned to it, but uses private security. Brad Bialy tells the New York Times that his son Brendan and two friends tried to tackle a gunman who entered a classroom and pulled a gun out of a guitar case. He says one of the boys was shot in the chest during the attempt to stop the shooting. (The shooting comes just weeks after local schools marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine massacre.) Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. Major depressive disorder, also known as major depression and clinical depression, is a mental disorder characterized by loss of interest and pleasure in enjoyable environment. People are affected in different ways by major depression. Some people have trouble sleeping, feel agitated and irritable, and have sudden weight loss. Moreover, they can have other mental and physical symptoms such as fatigue, memory loss, feeling of hopelessness, body aches, headaches, and thoughts of suicide. Get Sample Copy Of This @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/4190 Major depressive disorder can affect people in any stage of life. In adults, major depressive disorder is most common in those who are 25-44 years of age. Within an entire lifetime, major depression affects 10% - 25% of women and 5% - 12% of men. It is estimated that 10% - 25% of people who develop major depressive disorder are previously diagnosed with dysthymia (dysthymic disorder), a form of depression. Some people may suffer from dysthymia and major depressive disorder at the same time. The presence of both conditions at the same time is known as double depression. The development of major depressive disorder may be related to certain medical conditions. Approximately 20% - 25% of people who have cancer, diabetes, stroke, and myocardial infarctions are likely to develop major depressive disorder. The global major depressive disorder market is categorized based on various types of therapeutic drugs used to manage this medical condition. Based on type of therapeutic drug, the report covers selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. Major brands of selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors include Lexapro (Escitalopram), Viibryd (Vilazodone), Effexor (Venlafaxine), Cymbalta (Duloxetine), Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine), Fetzima (Levomilnacipran), and Savella (Milnacipran). Antidepressants, such as Noradrenaline, Specific Serotonergic Antidepressants, Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors, Tricyclic Antidepressants, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, and Brintellix (Vortioxetine), are commonly used in the management of major depressive disorder. Major brands of antipsychotics include Abilify (Aripiprazole) and Seroquel XR (Quetiapine). In terms of geography, North America dominates the global major depressive disorder market due to increased awareness about various depression conditions in the region. The U.S. represents the largest market for major depressive disorder in North America, followed by Canada. In Europe, Germany, France, the U.K., Italy, and Spain account for a major share of the major depressive disorder market. This market in Asia is expected to expand at a significant rate over the next five years. This is due to various companies setting up manufacturing facilities in the region. Moreover, increasing awareness about various depression episodes and rise in geriatric population are also driving the growth of the market in the region. India, China, and Japan are expected to be the fastest growing major depressive disorder markets in Asia. In recent times, increased demand for therapeutic products for the treatment of this medical condition is a key driver for the global major depressive disorder market. Increased investments in R&D in the pharmaceutical sector and introduction of innovative drugs have also fueled the growth of this market. The ongoing development of drugs with properties, such as improved safety and high patient compliance, are also supporting the growth of the global major depressive disorder market. Therapies, such as biological therapy, meditation, and physiotherapy, have immense potential to spur the growth of this market. However, stringent regulations imposed by various governments hamper the growth of global major depressive disorder market. Moreover, the patent expiries of some blockbuster drugs (drugs that have an annual sale of USD 1.0 million and above) and risk of complications and side-effects associated with antidepressants have hindered the growth of the market. Increasing mergers and acquisitions of drug manufacturing companies and rapid product launches are some of the major trends in the global major depressive disorder market. The major companies operating in this market are H. Lundbeck A/S, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., AstraZeneca Plc, Alkermes, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Naurex, Euthymics Bioscience, Inc., e-Therapeutics plc, Eli Lilly and Company, and Pfizer Inc. Request For TOC @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/methodology/4190 Key geographies evaluated in this report are: North America U.S Canada Europe France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK Eastern Europe CIS APAC China India Japan Australia Others Latin America Argentina Brazil Others Key features of this report (Newser) A Brazilian model who drowned after falling into the ocean during rough weather last month died because of her husband's negligence, authorities say. Police say Jorge Sestini, husband of 37-year-old Caroline Bittencourt, will be charged with manslaughter because he failed to heed repeated warnings about dangerously high winds before heading out from a marina near Sao Paulo in a 16-foot catamaran, People reports. "We believe Jorge risked the life of Caroline and himself when he apparently ignored warnings about the impending bad weather," says Sao Sebastiao police detective Vanderley Pagliarini, per the New York Post. story continues below Pagliarini says marina owner Leonardo Oliveira has told police he warned Sestini twice not to head out on April 28. Authorities believe Bittencourt probably wasn't wearing a life jacket when she was swept overboard. Sestini jumped into the water in an unsuccessful attempt to save his wife and was rescued about three hours later. Sestini has been ordered to report to a police station in Sao Paulo. If he is convicted, he will face one to three years in prison, according to G1 Global News. The model's family says that contrary to initial reports that she jumped into the water to try to save her two dogs, Bittencourt and the dogs were swept overboard at the same time. (Another Brazilian model died tragically the same week.) (Newser) The inevitable salacious details are emerging at the sex trafficking and racketeering trial of Keith Raniere, the leader of the cult-like NXIVM group, and those details started flowing in a Brooklyn courtroom Tuesday via "Sylvie." The New York Times details testimony of the 32-year-old UK woman, who says she was lured into NXIVM for supposed "self-help" purposes and stuck around for 13 years, becoming a "slave" to the woman who recruited her, Monica Duran. Sylvie says she had to give "collateral" to Duran in the form of nude pictures and other materials. "Now I was Monica's slave and she was my master and the collateral was in place to keep that going," Sylvie told the court. Assistant US Attorney Tanya Hajjar also weighed in, calling Raniere, 58, a "predator" who "sold himself as the smartest, most ethical person in the world" and "compared himself to Einstein and to Gandhi," per Reuters. story continues below Hajjar told jurors about a young teen Raniere nicknamed "Virgin Camilla," whom Raniere brought from Mexico to New York along with her two sisters in 2005 to "mentor," per the New York Post. Instead, Hajjar said, he started having sex with them, including Camilla starting when she was 15, which could spur statutory rape charges. "This was organized crime, and Keith Raniere was the crime boss in the community," Hajjar tells the Times. But defense attorney Marc Agnifilo insisted that even if Raniere was tough or demanding, the group's members joined of their own free will. "This is something these people signed up for," Agnifilo said. "Control can be very bad. Control can also make Marines. Control can make gold medal winners." Raniere, who has pleaded not guilty to a slew of charges, including sex trafficking, racketeering, extortion, and forced labor, could face life in prison if convicted. (Read more NXIVM stories.) (Newser) Iran's president said Wednesday that the country will begin keeping its excess uranium and heavy water from its nuclear program, setting a 60-day deadline for new terms to its nuclear deal with world powers before it will resume higher uranium enrichment. Hassan Rouhani's address to the nation came on the anniversary of President Trump's decision to withdraw America from the atomic accord. Rouhani said Iran wanted to negotiate new terms with remaining partners in the deal, but acknowledged that the situation was dire. "This surgery is to save the (deal), not destroy it," Rouhani said, calling for European nations to defy the reinstated US sanctions on Iran. The 2015 deal saw sanctions on Iran lifted in exchange for limits on its nuclear program. story continues below Iran sent letters Wednesday on its decision to the leaders of Britain, China, the European Union, France, and Germany, the AP reports. All were signatories to the nuclear deal and continue to support it. A letter was also to go to Russia. "If the five countries join negotiations and help Iran to reach its benefits in the field of oil and banking, Iran will return to its commitments according to the nuclear deal," Rouhani said. There was no immediate response from the US. However, the White House said Sunday it would dispatch an aircraft carrier and a bomber wing to the Persian Gulf over what it described as a new threat from Iran. The US has also ended waivers for nations buying Iranian crude oil. (Read more Iran nuclear deal stories.) (Newser) The Russian embassy is among critics saying a Chicago monument honoring a Lithuanian hero seemingly ignores that that hero rounded up Jews during the Holocaust, a horror only 4% of Lithuania's Jewish population survived. Before he was executed by the Soviets in 1957, Adolfas Ramanauskas-Vanagas became a national hero for leading Lithuania's resistance to Soviet occupation after World War II. Under Nazi occupation in 1941, however, Ramanauskas also led a vigilante gang that persecuted Jews in the town of Druskininkai, according to the Simon Wiesenthal Center, which does Holocaust research. The Center's Israel head, Efraim Zuroff, tells the BBC he complained to Lithuania's parliament in 2017 but "they were determined to honor [Ramanauskas]. It didn't matter he helped persecute Jews: that didn't seem to bother them." story continues below Indeed, Lithuania's foreign minister saw the monument unveiled Sunday in "the hub of the Lithuanian community in the US," per the BBC. Ramanauskas' relatives also attended. The Russian embassy pointed out the timing, around Holocaust Remembrance Day and Victory in Europe Day, while accusing Lithuanian groups of "massacring and pillaging the Jews and the Poles before the German forces entered Lithuania in 1941." In response, Lithuania on Tuesday demanded Moscow stop spreading disinformation in an attempt "to deny the fact of the Soviet occupation," per the Baltic Times. Lithuanian researchers, meanwhile, say Ramanauskaswho wrote of Soviet efforts to discredit freedom fighters, "hoping that perhaps some people will believe that we were fighting for Nazi affairs"only led a group that protected homes and shops for two weeks in 1941. (Read more Chicago stories.) (Newser) French adventurer Jean-Jacques Savin has made it across the Atlantic Ocean128 days after he set off from the Canary Islands in a giant orange barrel. The 72-year-old, whose capsule was built by French barrel makers, finished his 2,930-mile journey across the Atlantic last week when he arrived unannounced on the Dutch Caribbean island of St. Eustatius, CNN reports. He traveled across the ocean at an average speed of around two miles an hour with no engine or sails, relying solely on winds and ocean currents. He says he passed the time inside the barrel, which is 10 feet long and seven feet wide, by watching fish through the portholes. story continues below Savin brought foie gras and white wine for New Year's Eve, though he mainly fed himself with fish caught from the ocean. A diving center on St. Eustatius says it welcomed him to the island, where he was offered a free hotel room for his first night on land after months in the resin-coated plywood barrel. Savina former military paratrooper and private pilotdropped markers in the ocean to help researchers study ocean currents. He described the journey as a "crossing during which man isn't captain of his ship, but a passenger of the ocean," Voice of America reports. On his Facebook page, Savin said Tuesday that he was on board a cargo ship and will arrive at the French Caribbean island of Martinique on Thursday, concluding his "magnificent journey." (Read more Atlantic Ocean stories.) (Newser) A Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row in Pakistan has left for Canada to be reunited with her daughters, Pakistani officials and others involved in the case said Wednesday. Asia Bibi, also known as Aasia Bibi, was convicted of blasphemy in 2009 after a quarrel with a fellow farmworker. The Supreme Court overturned her conviction last year, and she had been in protective custody since then. Islamic extremists have rioted over the case and threatened to kill her. The same radical Islamists, many of whom have been jailed for their threats, also urged the overthrow of the government following Bibi's acquittal. story continues below Wilson Chawdhry of the British Pakistani Christian Association tells the AP that he received a text message from a British diplomat saying "Aasia is out." A close friend of Bibi also confirmed that she had left the country, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal. Her lawyer, Saif-ul Malook, said she had already arrived in Canada. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed not to be intimidated by the rioters, saying the rule of law would decide Bibi's fate. But she was denied permission to leave the country for several months until sentiments cooled. The case has brought international attention to Pakistan's controversial blasphemy law, which carries an automatic death penalty. (Read more Asia Bibi stories.) (Newser) It was long thought that 23-year-old Karen Norton was killed when she interrupted a 1985 home invasion. More than three decades later, authorities in Maryland have offered a different version of events, alleging murder at the hands of the newlywed's husband. Indicted on first-degree murder charges, John Norton, 57, is believed to have fatally stabbed his wife in their Catonsville home on Dec. 17, 1985, before staging the scene to look like a break-in. "Although there was evidence of a breaking and entering, police believe this was staged to thwart the homicide investigation," authorities say, per ABC News. WBAL reports that conclusion came after careful study of crime scene photos. story continues below Though Norton had previously skirted suspicions, new evidence and additional interviews with witnesses then pointed to him as the prime suspect, police said Monday. Earlier reports suggested Karen Norton had stumbled upon a burglary in progress after returning home from her job at a JCPenney. Norton, now held in Baltimore County jail, was said to have discovered the body when he got home an hour later, finding his wife's keys in the front door, per Fox News. "I think the investigators and the department, along with the family, are just ecstatic that we were finally able to get this case to the point where we can prosecute it," a police rep tells WBAL, via Fox. "It's been 33 years in the making." (Cops say a used razor solved these two murders.) (Newser) The student killed in Tuesday's shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch in suburban Denver went out a hero. Kendrick Castillo, 18, along with two of his friends, tackled a shooterseen pulling a gun out of a guitar caseand was shot in the chest, reports NBC News. The sacrifice "[gave] all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape," another student says. "We're going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school," adds Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock, per USA Today. More details emerging: Student suspects: One is identified as Devon Erickson, 18. Spurlock describes a second, initially identified as a male, as a female minor. Denver Channel, however, describes a juvenile suspect in the process of transitioning from female to male. Spurlock says "we originally thought the juvenile was a male by appearance," but wouldn't comment on whether the suspect is transgender. One is identified as Devon Erickson, 18. Spurlock describes a second, initially identified as a male, as a female minor. Denver Channel, however, describes a juvenile suspect in the process of transitioning from female to male. Spurlock says "we originally thought the juvenile was a male by appearance," but wouldn't comment on whether the suspect is transgender. The shooting: The pair are accused of firing on two classrooms at the public charter school after passing through an entrance without metal detectors, per the AP. Spurlock says they had a "number of weapons," including two handguns they weren't old enough to possess. story continues below Capture: Deputies reportedly arrested the suspects within minutes, with no gunfire exchanged, per the AP. Spurlock said one of the suspects was detained by a security guard at the school, attended by more than 1,850 students in kindergarten through grade 12. Deputies reportedly arrested the suspects within minutes, with no gunfire exchanged, per the AP. Spurlock said one of the suspects was detained by a security guard at the school, attended by more than 1,850 students in kindergarten through grade 12. A Columbine link?: Citing multiple sources, Denver Channel reports the motive "went beyond bullying and involved revenge and anger towards others at the school." Some are questioning whether the shooting was inspired by the 1999 massacre at Columbine High School, just seven miles away. Per the AP, "the answer was not immediately clear." Citing multiple sources, Denver Channel reports the motive "went beyond bullying and involved revenge and anger towards others at the school." Some are questioning whether the shooting was inspired by the 1999 massacre at Columbine High School, just seven miles away. Per the AP, "the answer was not immediately clear." The injured: Eight students aged 15 and older were treated at three hospitals, including one student shot three times. Five had been released by Wednesday morning, while three remained in intensive care. Eight students aged 15 and older were treated at three hospitals, including one student shot three times. Five had been released by Wednesday morning, while three remained in intensive care. The terror: A 8-year-old second-grader tells the New York Times of hearing his first ever gunshot. His mother, speaking for most parents, says, "We're more messed up than they are." (Read more school shooting stories.) Sorry! This content is not available in your region Mumbai: Hundreds of employees of the now-grounded Jet Airways, who have been unpaid for several months, protested outside Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai on Wednesday. The fresh round of protests come days after employees of the cash-strapped airline conducted a silent demonstration the governments inaction in helping the carrier. The four bidders chosen by State Bank of India-led consortium of lenders are expected to announce the final bids by May 10. As of now, the employees have no clarity about their future and the pending dues. The employees are still hopeful that the investors will come forward and save the airline. The lenders of Jet Airways, which are currently managing the airline, have till date refused to provide funds for restarting the operations. Earlier on April 27, over 200 employees of Jet Airways took out a candlelight march near Jantar Mantar appealing to the lenders of the airline and the Centre to "Save Jet Airways". The employees were carrying placards with slogans such as "Save Jet Airways, Save Our Future" and "We have dependents to feed, please don't let 9W bleed". 9W is the code for Jet Airways like 6E is for IndiGo. After flying for 25 years, Jet Airways on April 17 announced temporary grounding of operations after the lenders declined a Rs 400-crore lifeline, putting at stake 20,000 jobs and thousands of crores in passenger refunds, dues to vendors and over Rs 8,500 crore to banks. Founded by Naresh Goyal, who began as a general sales agent to a host of international airlines with travel agency Jetair, the full-service carrier served tens of millions of passengers for over two-and-half decades, before becoming the seventh domestic carrier to shutter operations in the past five years. However, the once-premier airline flew into deeper turbulence-second in its history after the 2010 crisis-- after four back-to-back quarterly losses, leaving it gasping for financial breath and forcing it to default on payments to nearly all--from banks to lessors, to employees, and eventually leading to the shutdown from tonight as its fleet strength has crimped to just about five planes from 123 in December last. For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. London: Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi will file a third bail plea Wednesday before a UK court, which has already rejected his bail twice before as he fights his extradition case in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to $2 billion. Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot is scheduled to hear the third bail application at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London. It remains unconfirmed whether Modi will appear in person or via videolink from Wandsworth prison in south-west London, where the 48-year-old has been lodged since his arrest in March. His barrister, Clare Montgomery, will seek to convince the judge of a change of circumstances in order to seek bail for a third time at the same court. "He has had his two bail applications in the lower court. He can only make a third application if he can persuade the court that there has been a change in circumstances. He is arguing a change of circumstances based on new evidence," said a spokesperson for the UK's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which represents the Indian government in the extradition proceedings. "He will have to seek to persuade the Judge that this constitutes a change of circumstances and that he should be permitted to make another bail application," the spokesperson said. Modi's legal team, led by solicitor Anand Doobay, have previously offered 1 million pounds as security alongside an offer to meet stringent electronic tag restrictions on their client's movements, "akin to house arrest". It remains to be seen how they plan to bolster the application for a third attempt before the same court. "This is a case of substantial fraud, with loss to a bank in India of between USD 1-2 billion. I am not persuaded that the conditional bail sought will meet the concerns of the government of India in this case," Judge Arbuthnot had said, when rejecting the previous bail application. She also noted that "very unusually in a fraud case", Modi had made death threats to witnesses and also attempted to destroy evidence in the case. The diamond dealer's "lack of community ties" in the UK and an attempt to acquire the citizenship of Vanuatu - a remote island in the South Pacific Ocean - in late 2017 went against him, as the judge said it seemed like he was trying to "move away from India at an important time". The CPS team, represented by barrister Nick Hearn from Furnival Chambers, is expected to oppose the latest bail application on similar grounds. At the last hearing in the extradition case on April 26, when Modi had appeared before Judge Arbuthnot via videolink from prison, no application had been made for bail and he was further remanded in judicial custody until May 24. The court was also told that May 30 had been tentatively ear-marked as the first case management hearing ahead of an extradition trial, but it now remains to be seen how the case will progress after the latest bail application. Earlier, the CPS had confirmed that Modi intends to appeal against his bail rejection in the UK's High Court. However, the bail hearing this week will take place at the same lower court on the basis of "change of circumstances". Modi was arrested by uniformed Scotland Yard officers in central London on March 19. During subsequent hearings, Westminster Magistrates' Court was told that Modi was the "principal beneficiary" of the fraudulent issuance of letters of undertaking (LoUs) as part of a conspiracy to defraud PNB and then laundering the proceeds of crime. Meanwhile, the diamond merchant remains behind bars at one of England's most overcrowded prisons - Her Majesty's Prison (HMP) Wandsworth, where he can hold sessions with his legal team to deliberate on the course of his extradition proceedings. His lawyers had urged the judge to allow them more time with their client than the few hours a week permitted by the jail. For all the Latest Business News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Tiya Singh, a 15-year-old from Delhi who appeared for her Class 10 CBSE exams this year, scored 92.4% when the results were declared on Monday. What makes us take note of Tiyas marks amid the lakhs of other students took the exam is the circumstances under which she wrote her papers. When others were busy with last-minute preparations, Tiya was coping with the sudden and untimely death of her father and 11-year-old brother in a road accident only hours before her first paper. Tiya, a student of Brightland School in Govindpuram, scored 99 in English, 95 in social studies, 90 in Hindi, 89 each in mathematics and science. On the night of March 6, Tiyas father and brother Garvit had gone to fetch dinner as Garvit stood second when his class 5 results came. They had gone on the motorcycle and were run over by a speeding truck near Shastri Nagar around 9.30pm. She displayed an extraordinary strength in coping with her grief and maintaining her composure. She was crying the whole night and none of us had slept. She had gone to the hospital to see her critically wounded brother. She even consoled me time and again. When morning came, she got ready and went for her exams, Reena Sagar, Tiyas mother, said as quoted by Hindustan Times. After taking her exams, she returned to perform the last rites of her father and brother. I was overwhelmed by the way she dealt with her grief and trauma. Her father, before leaving the previous night, had told her that only two years of her school were left and she should secure good marks and go on to become a doctor, Reena said. Anil Sagar, Tiyas uncle who stays in Delhi, said, While they were returning, a speeding truck hit their bike. My brother died on the spot while my nephew died an hour later. Tiya saw both bodies but she somehow braved all odds. She took me along to the examination centre the next day and returned to perform the last rites. After that, she never looked back, she gave all her examinations one by one, despite the environment of grief at home. The errant truck driver is yet to be arrested, he said. Tiya, her parents, brother and her grandmother live in Avantika where her father had opened a crockery shop to earn a livelihood after facing financial difficulties. Remembering all the happy times she shared with her brother and father, with a lump in her throat, Tiya said, I still remember the small fights with my brother. But he loved me a lot. My father would have been the happiest person to see my results. I feel I could have done better had the accident not taken place. I devoted three to four hours to self-study and revised every topic after coming home from school. The accident took away everything I loved, but I have this challenge to prove myself to my father. Tiyas school director Balvin Khandelwal is all praise for the child and even lent support to her family by offering a primary teachers job to Tiyas mother. The girl is brilliant and has opted for physics, chemistry and biology in her class 11 as she is aiming to be a doctor, the way her father wanted her to be. From our end, we have waived all her school fee. I remember her first examination after the tragedy was mathematics she showed phenomenal courage to appear for it, Khandelwal said as quoted by the daily. New Delhi: Symbiosis International (Deemed University) that held entrance exams on the first Saturday of May for admission to various Undergraduate courses like Design, Law, Engineering and the likes will release the results for on May 14, 2019. The results for all the candidates appearig for seperate entreance exam for separate courses can check their score and rank on the official website of SET. To check the results candidates need to enter their login details on the result link. The link will be activated on the website as and when the university releases the results. The entrance examination was held on May 04 in two sessions from 9.30 AM to 12 noon and 2.30 PM to 5.00 PM. The entrance test for those candidates who had their test centres in Bhubaneshwar, Cuttack, Hoogly, and Kolkata has been rescheduled due to cyclone Fani that wrecked mach havoc in Odisha and west Bengal. The exams for the candidates belonging to these regions will be held to May 11, 2019 in two sessions. Candidates must make sure to carry the admit card with them while appearing for examination. The result of the entrance test will contain the marks secured and the qualifying status of the candidates based on which they will be called for further selection procedures. Steps to check the Symbiosis Entrance Test Results Candidates who have appeared for the examination can check their entrance test results by following the below given steps Step 1: Visit the official website set-test.org Step 2: Click on the result link given Step 3: Click on the entrance test appeared for Step 4: Enter the login details Registration ID and Password Step 5: Download and Print result details given on the entrance test result On the basis of their scores and ranks, candidates will be shortlisted for Personal Interview-Written Ability Test /Studio Test-Personal Interaction (PI-WAT/ST-PI) based on the Entrance Test marks secured by the candidate. Candidates must check the respective institute website for information and dates of PI-WAT/ST-PI. The shortlisted candidates will have to pay the fee to confirm their seats. About Symbiosis International (Deemed University) Symbiosis is a family of 37 academic institutions spread across 9 campuses in and around Pune, sister city to Mumbai - India's commercial capital, and is host to over 45,000 students. New Delhi: Manipur Board HSE Results 2019: The Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur (COHSEM) has announced Manipur Board HSE Results 2019. According to the latest reports, the results will be announced at 3 pm. Soon after the formal declaration of the results, the scorecards will be available on the official websites of the board i.e. manipurcohsem.com and manresults.nic.in. The candidates can also check the results here by clicking on the link below. The candidates who have appeared for the examination are asked to keep all the details ready for the fast and easy access to the results. CLICK HERE FOR MANIPUR CLASS 12 RESULTS 2019 LIVE UPDATES: 3.59 pm: Micheal Atom and Laishram Librada Singh have jointly secured the top rank with 476 marks. From Arts stream, Oinam Barlin Meitei has topped with 445 marks, while Gurumayum Roberto Sharma came first in the Commerce stream with 416 marks. 3.57 pm: Michael Atom, Laishram Librada from science stream share top rank in 12th exams 3.41 pm: Candidates who appeared for 2019 Manipur HSE Class 12 exam can access their results online on manresults.nic.in by using roll number. No result will be sent to candidates individually through post or any medium. 3.41 pm: This year, 28,024 candidates had appeared for the Higher Secondary Examination (HSE) or Class 12 exams that was conducted at various centres across the state. 3.00 pm: Manipur Board HSE Results 2019 announced. 2.59 pm: Results anytime now. 2.50 pm: We here at News Nation are in close contact with our sources and will be updating all the latest updates here. 2.45 pm: In next 15 minutes, the Manipur Board class 12 results will be announced. 2.22 pm: Manipur Board HSE Result 2019: The Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur (COHSEM) will release the Manipur Board Class 12th i.e. Higher Secondary Examination (HSE) Result 2019 today at 3 pm in the official website. 2.20 pm: The Class 12 results is likely to be announced at 3 pm. 2.18 pm: Last year, COHSEM had announced the Higher Secondary Examination 2018 result on 3rd May 2018. 2.15 pm: Approximately 28,000 students had appeared for Manipur HSE exams last year. The overall pass percentage was recorded at 68.81%, with pass percentage of Girls at 68% and 66% for boys. District-wise, Noney district topped the state with 96.80% pass percentage while only 19.47% students were declared pass in Tengnoupal district. 2.07 pm: The Class 12 examination was conducted from February 18 to March 20, 2019. 2.01 pm: Last year, Sagar Acharya from Don Bosco HR. Sec. School was the overall state topper in Commerce stream. Seline Keisham from Comet School, Changangei had topped the class 12 exam in Science stream. Ningthoujam Radharani Devi from Enlighten Knowledge HR. Sec. School, Sangakpham was the topper in Arts stream. 1.58 pm: BoSEM has been working to announce the HSLC Exam 2019 by May 20. 1.52 pm: The declaration of COHSEM class 12 results will seal the fate of thousands of students who have appeared for the examination. 1.42 pm: The board officials have not announced the time on which the board will announce the results. 1.36 pm: The Manipur Board class 12 students are asked to keep all the details ready for the fast and easy access to the results. 1.35 pm: The Manipur Board class 12 results is likely to be announced shortly. For the convenience of the students, we have mentioned the steps through which the candidates can download the scorecards. Visit english.newsnationtv.com/education Click on the link for MBSE 12th Result 2019 Enter your roll number, email id, date of birth and other important details Click on Submit Your Manipur Board HSE Result will appear on the screen Check the Manipur 12th Result 2019 Manipur Board HSE Result Last Years Analysis The statistics of Manipur Board result for the last year is given below. Total Number of Students Appeared: 28,020 Overall pass percentage: 68.81% Pass Percentage of Boys: 66% Pass Percentage of Girls: 68% Highest Performing District: Noney (Pass Percentage - 96.80) Least Performing District: Tengnoupal (Pass Percentage - 19.47%) Manipur Board HSE Result Toppers (Last Year) Science: Selina Keisham Humanities: Ningthoujam Radharani Devi Commerce: Sagar Acharya About Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur (COSHEM) The Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur was established in the year 1992 under the provisions of the Manipur Higher Secondary Act, 1992. Prior to the establishment of the Council, the 10+2 courses in the state were conducted by the Board of Secondary Education, Manipur as Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate course in the Higher Secondary Schools and Pre-University course by the Manipur University in the College. The COSHEM conducted the Higher Secondary Examination, 1993 as its first public examination in the state. New Delhi: After journalists from Jammu and Kashmir's Leh accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to bribe reporters for politically motivated coverage a new video has emerged showing sealed envelopes being handed over to the scribes at a press conference in Lehas Hotel Singge Palace. However, News Nation cannot verify the authenticity of the video. #Video | CCTV clip adds twist to Ladakh journalistsa abribe claima, BJP threatens defamation case pic.twitter.com/K42jvRNZQO a News Nation (@NewsNationTV) May 8, 2019 BJP legislator Vikram Randhawa is seen giving envelopes to journalists in presence of Jammu and Kashmir party chief Ravinder Raina. The state election body has initiated steps to file a First Information Report following the journalists' complaint. The complaint has been sent to the local court and that they are waiting for court directions to file a FIR, officials said. Earlier, the journalist party had lodged complaints with district election officer Anvy Lavasa as well as the police. However, Raina had refused the claims and threatened to file a defamation suit against the body if they donat apologize. "The BJP will not tolerate such allegations. It will file a defamation suit in the high court against the press club if it fails to make a public apology," Raina said. He called the move as politically motivated. Ladakh is witnessing a four-way contest between the BJPas Tsering Namgyal, who is chief executive councillor of the Leh Autonomous Hill Development Council; Congress candidate Rigzin Saplbar; Independent Sajjad Hussain, who is supported by the National Conference and the Peopleas Democratic Party; and Congress rebel Asgar Ali Karbalai. New Delhi: The opposition parties are likely to meet on May 21, two days after polling concludes and two days before the votes are counted, to decide on a prime ministerial face, according to sources. The reported development comes after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday and discussed plans to chalk out a post-poll alliance. Naidu met Gandhi before heading out to West Bengal to attend public rallies in support of the ruling Trinamool Congress in the state, sources said. Naidu will be meeting West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee apart from attending her rallies on Wednesday and Thursday. Naidu, who parted ways with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in March this year over the Centres refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh, has of late emerged as a facilitator to bring together all opposition parties to stop the BJP juggernaut in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. His attempts to carve out a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) last year met a roadblock owing to the prime ministerial ambitions of leaders like Sharad Pawar, Mamata Banerjee and Mayawati. On the other hand, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, who met his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday with his idea of a non-BJP, non-Congress federal front, is believed to be trying to gain a backdoor entry into the oppositions joint alliance, if any such gets formed, according to a News18 report. He was scheduled to meet DMK president M K Stalin on May 13 and also held talks with JDS chief and Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy. Rao was hopeful that both the DMK and the JDS allies of the Congress would get on board with his idea of federal front. However, he was told by them inclusion of the grand old party was necessary. New Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday sought to strike an emotional chord with people during a road show in New Delhi, saying she was born in Delhi and is empathetic towards their aspirations, unlike Prime Minister Narendra Modi who, she claimed, has been here only for five years. Holding her first roadshow in the national capital in support of Sheila Dikshit, the Congress candidate for Northeast Delhi constituency, Priyanka Gandhi challenged Modi to fight polls on the issues of GST, demonetisation and women security. The roadshow started in Seelampur, a minority-dominated area, and meandered with a sea of people towards Yamuna Vihar depot, where it culminated. Perched atop a minibus, she said, "I cannot disrespect you. We are not arrogant like the BJP. We know that you have made us what we are today." "Modi ji is in Delhi for five years. I was born in the city. I have seen every bylane. I will tell you (Modi) what the people of Delhi think. They are tired of your useless talk. You keep yourself confined to your Race Course Road residence," said Priyanka Gandhi. Seven, Race Course Road is the official residence of the prime minister. The name of the road was changed to Lok Kalyan Marg in 2016. Accusing Modi of destroying institutions and the BJP of playing politics in the name of religion, she said the prime minister was indulging in negative politics and cannot give a direct answer to questions on the work he did during his five years of governance. Raking up the issue of GST, which many say was implemented in a haphazard manner, Priyanka Gandhi said the new indirect tax regime broke the back of businessmen. The AICC general secretary also referred to the BJP's 2014 poll promises, including about providing 2 crore jobs every year. Addressing people, she asked them if they got the jobs, to which the crowd responded in negative. "He (Modi) failed to protect soldiers, youth and women but who will hold him accountable and who will seek answers from him," she asked the gathering. They replied, "We will." "You have to vote and strengthen yourself. He (Modi) is destroying all institutions and they (BJP) are playing politics in name of religion. Delhi is the heart of the nation. Raise your voice... We have had enough," she said. Gandhi and Dikshit waved at the ebullient supporters who raised slogans "Desh me aandhi Priyanka Gandhi" and "Priyanka nahi ye andhi hai dusri Indira Gandhi hai". People jostled with each other to catch a glimpse of Priyanka Gandhi. Some were also showering rose petals on her as the minibus passed by them. Her cavalcade curled through the lanes on the route of the road show amid a cacophony of claps, hooting, sloganeering and drum-beating. "Sanitation is the main issue here. Manoj Tiwari (the BJP MP who is seeking reelection from the seat) was never seen here. (Chief Minister) Arvind Kejriwal cannot run the government," said Zubair Ahmed, a resident of Seelampur. New Delhi: A row emerged over Aam Aadmi Party's May 4 meeting at a banquet hall in Matia Mahal with the BJP filing a complaint with the Election Commission against AAP leaders and MLA Amanatullah Khan for allegedly hosting meetings inside mosques to seek votes. Following the BJP's complaint, the Election Commission had asked the banquet hall to file its response for holding the meeting without taking prior permission. In his response, the owner of the banquet hall, where AAP leaders apparently held a meeting, tol the poll body that the session was organised by leader of a local outfit. Ealier in his complaint, the Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly Vijender Gupta had claimed that a meeting was held at a banquet hall in Lal Miyan on May 4 at 9pm. A flying squad subsequently reached the spot and recorded videos of the meeting, following which the returning officer issued a show-cause notice to the banquet hall owner. In his reply, the owner said the meeting was organised by a local leader, whome the commission has now served a show-cause notice seeking to know why the permission was not taken for the meeting and the reason behind AAP leader's presence. Poll officials have also directed Chandni Mahal police station to file an FIR for the use of loudspeakers even after 10 pm. The Supreme Court has banned the use of any sound amplifier at night (between 10 pm and 6am). "If it is found the event was organised by the Aam Aadmi Party, the expenditure of the meeting will be added to the poll expenditure of the party," the officials said. Last week, the BJP had filed a separate complaint before the Election Commission against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly misusing Delhi Waqf Board funds for "minority appeasement" politics. New Delhi: In a setback to the Congerss party, the Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected its plea against the alleged inaction of the Election Commission on complaints of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violation against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah. A two-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi ruled that the court need not to hear the case further as the Election Commission has already decided on all the complaints against the prime minister and the BJP chief. Last week, the Supreme Court had asked the Election Commission of India to decide on all the complaints of poll code violation against Modi and Shah before the fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections on May 6. Following the court's directions, the commission took notice of all the complaints and gave clean chit to PM Modi and Amit Shah. In its latest clean chit to the prime minister, the poll panel on Tuesday said that Modi's 'Bhrashtachari No1' (corrupt no. 1) remark against late former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi at an election rally in Uttar Pradesh last week was not in the violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Prima facie, we did not figure out any literal violation of MCC as given in Election Commission of India instructions. Case is therefore disposed off, the poll panel said while giving clean chit to the prime minister. Earlier, Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Sushmita Dev had filed a plea in the Supreme Court saying that the Election Commission was not taking any action against the prime minister, for what she called a brazen violation of poll code. She said that despite the commission's guidlines against the use of armed forces, Modi invoked the valoure of military to seek votes during his campaign. Addressing a rally in Ausa of Latur in Maharashtra on April 9, PM Modi had urged young voters to cast ballots in the name of heroes of the Balakot air strike and martyers of Pulwama terror attack. "I want to tell the first-time voters - can your first vote be dedicated to the veer jawans (valiant soldiers) who carried out the air strike in Pakistan. Can your first vote be dedicated to the veer shaheed (brave martyrs) of Pulwama (terror attack)," PM Modi had said. Senior advocate, A M Singhvi, appearing for Congress Lok Sabha MP Sushmita Dev, who has filed a petition in the apex court on the issue, said that they have given 11 representations to EC against the prime minister but it has taken decision on only two. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued a notice to the Election Commission seeking its reply on the plea filed by sacked BSF head constable Tej Bahadur Yadav, who has challengedA the decision of Returning Officer (RO) to reject his nomination papers from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat.A The top court has asked the poll panel to examine to apprise it by tomorrow after examining grievances raised by the sacked BSF jawan. The RO on May 1 had rejected the nomination papers of Yadav, a Samajwadi Party candidate, who was dismissed from BSF in 2017 after he posted a video online complaining about the food served to the troops. The poll panel official held that Yadav failed to furnish a certificate as mandated under the Representation of Peoples (RP) Act to the effect that he has not been "dismissed for corruption or disloyalty to the state". Yadav, in its plea filed through lawyer Prashant Bhushan, has sought setting aside of RO's decision and the apex court's nod to contest elections from high-profile Varanasi seat where poll is slated to taken place on May 19. "It seems the impugned decision has been taken keeping in mind the sensitivity of the contest in Varanasi Constituency and to give walkover to the candidate of the ruling party by disqualifying the Petitioner whose candidature was gaining momentum and was therefore also supported by the main opposition alliance of two major political parties in the state," the plea alleged. The Samajwadi Party had initially fielded Shalini Yadav as its candidate to contest against Modi and later nominated the sacked BSF jawan. "The petitioner's nomination paper...Dated April 29, for contesting Lok Sabha Election 2019 from Varanasi Constituency was rejected by the RO, vide the impugned order dated May 1, on the ground that the petitioner was dismissed from the government service on April 19, 2017 and five years period from the date of such dismissal has not elapsed, in terms of section 9 of the (RP) Act," the plea said. While rejecting the nomination papers of Yadav, the RO had observed that "the nomination paper is neither accompanied by certificate issued in the prescribed manner by the Election Commission to the effect that he has not been dismissed for corruption or disloyalty to the state". "While passing the impugned order...The RO completely failed to appreciate that the Petitioner (Yadav) had produced his dismissal letter along with his nomination paper which clearly shows that he was dismissed from service for alleged indiscipline and not for corruption or disloyalty to state, as is provided under Section 9 and Section 33 (3) of the (RP) Act," the plea said. Yadav, in his reply to RO's first notice of April 29, had submitted that he was dismissed from BSF due to "indiscipline" which is not covered under the election law and hence, a certificate from EC to that effect was not required, the plea said. "The RO issued second notice on April 30 asking the Petitioner (Yadav) to submit required certificate to the effect that he has not been dismissed for corruption or disloyalty to the state by 11 am on May 01. "First of all...In the present facts of the case, there was no need to produce any certificate as Section 9 is not attracted at all. Secondly, this second notice asking for the certificate was served upon the Petitioner on April 30 at 6 pm. Thus, no sufficient time was given to produce the certificate," the plea alleged. It said Yadav had replied to the second notice to the RO by reiterating that the provisions of the RP Act were not applicable in his case. Moreover, Yadav had told the RO that he had already sent a representation to the EC requesting it to furnish certificate as contemplated under the provisions of the RP Act, it said. "However, the RO of the Election Commission of India on that very day without waiting for the EC's response to the Petitioner's representation rejected the Petitioner's nomination paper," it said. Rejection of nomination was not only "erroneous, arbitrary and malafide" but also showed failure of the RO and the EC in not invoking the constitutional powers to remedy the present situation for ensuring free and fair election, it said. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: In remarks that could lead to another political outburst in the ongoing election season, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said that the country needs leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose and Swami Vivekananda, and not a dangabaaz (rioter) like Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Addressing a rally in West Bengal's Debra, Banerjee said: "There will be no freedom and democracy if we dont change Modi.He will change the history and geography of the country.There will be no elections in future.There is an emergency in the country and no one can speak freely." Questioning the BJP's nationalistic and patriotic claims, Banerjee said that the saffron party chants "Nathuram Godse zindabad" instead of "Mahatma Gandhi zindabad". On Tuesday, the West Bengal CM had said that PM Modi should get a "tight slap of democracy". "I do not bow my head in politics. When Modi alleges that Trinamool Congress is a party of syndicates...Its government is run by syndicates, I feel he should get a tight slap of democracy (be defeated in election)," she said at a public meeting at Raghunathpur in Purulia. At another meeting at Ranibandh in Bankura district, she questioned BJP's claim of patriotism. "I do not know who Gandhiji's killers were. But we know the name of Nathuram Godse, an RSS man. When you speak of patriotism and serving the nation can you tells us who was he? "Did you fight for the country's independence? You (the BJP) had supported the British. Don't you feel ashamed?" Banerjee said. Speaking in the same vein at Barjora, also in Bankura district, Banerjee said, "They (the BJP) don't revere Gandhiji and Netaji as leaders of the nation .... Modi should not sermonise us on patriotism". New Delhi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law Robert Vadra on Wednesday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to focus on glaring issues such as poverty, unemployment and the empowerment of women instead of talking about him. He also wondered "what did he want to achieve by invoking my name, again and again". Vadra took to Facebook and wrote a post to the Prime Minister after Modi referred to alleged corruption in land deals while addressing a rally in Haryana's Kurukshetra. "This chowkidar has brought the corrupt who looted farmers' land in Delhi and Haryana to the gates of jails. Those who behaved as if they were kings have been made to run around the ED and the courts. With your blessings, justice will be done to the farmers and the corrupt will be put behind bars," the prime minister said at the rally, without naming anyone. Vadra said he "suffered harassment" at the hands of the Modi government in the last five years and that the prime minister was insulting the judiciary with his remarks that he will send him to jail. "Please stop these personal attacks on me. By passing such remarks, you insult our honourable judicial system. I have full faith in the Indian judiciary and the truth shall prevail. God save the country," Vadra tweeted. Vadra in the Facebook post said, "I am shocked to hear my name again in your rally. There are glaring issues such as poverty, joblessness, women empowerment, etc which are staring right at you, but you chose to talk about me, out of everything else." "I have been at the receiving end for the last 5 years of complete harassment, by your government. Relentless notices from various agencies, courts and tax departments, to simply mentally pressurise me. 11 times being summoned to depose each of 8 to 11 hours with the Enforcement Directorate, in different parts of the country, Court depositions, and related orders, etc. BUT NOT ONE allegation has been proven (sic)," he said. "Simply the nation knows my name is repeatedly used in elections to digress from the failures of your government and their own misdeeds," Vadra alleged. New Delhi: Hours after tendering an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court, for linking its Rafale case order to his Chowkidar chor hai phrase against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said that chowkidar chor hai slogan has not been coined by the Congress or him but by the youths and labourers of the country. This slogan was not coined by the Congress, or by Rahul Gandhi, but it is a slogan of the youth, farmers and labourers of India," he said at an election rally. The Congress leader has repeatedly hurled "chowkidar chor hai" (the watchman is a thief) jibe at Modi to target him over the Rafale deal. "Mediapersons asked me today about the genesis of the chowkidar chor hai slogan. I told them that while addressing a rally in Chhattisgarh, I said the chowkidar promised two crore jobs to the youth and assured Rs 15 lakh will be deposited in bank account of each Indian. Around 10-15 young men in the rally said 'chor hai'. I did not hear it the first time. So I asked (the young men) what did you say? They said 'chor hai', he added. Claiming this slogan has become peoples slogan, Gandhi said, "Once when my car had halted at a traffic signal, an auto stopped by the side of my window (which was open), driver saw me smiling, saw in my eyes and said `chowkidar chor hai'." Gandhi also accused PM Modi of insulting the martyrs by "committing a theft" in the multi-crore defence contract. HE said Modi is looking "depressed" these days as he has sensed he is going to lose the ongoing Lok Sabha elections, whose last phase will be held on May 19. "Officials of the Indian Air Force wrote that Narendra Modi held parallel negations with France. Chowkidar was holding direct dialogue with the manufacturer of Rafale Dassault...Chowkidar now explain to the country why you committed a theft?" he said at an election rally. He continued, "Jab Aapne (Modi) Chori Ki Thi, Tab Aapke Dil me Kaun Si Bhawana Thi? Tab Aapne Socha Ki Aap Bhind Ke Yuvaon Se Rojgar Chhin Rahe Ho. Nahi. Tab Aapne Socha Aap Shaheedo Ka Apmaan Kar Rahe ho, Nahi. Ye Batein Aapne Nahi Sochi. Magar Narendra Modi ji, Nyay se Koi Nahi Bach Sakta. (What was your feeling when you were committing theft. Did you think that you are snatching jobs from the youths of Bhind? No. Did you think that you are insulting the martyrs? No. You did not think this. But, Narendra Modi ji, nobody can escape justice.) He alleged the countrys youths lost job opportunities after the Modi government decided to buy Rafale jets built in France instead of manufacturing them in India. New Delhi: Bollywood's favourite couple of the moment, Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor, had always made headlines with their public show of affection and and lavish holidays and now the it couple is heading for another.A A few weeks after the release of Kalank, Alia was spotted with Brahmastra director Ayan Mukherji at the airport. They were flying to Europe when fans asked why Ranbir, from the famous trio, was missing. Now the buzz is that they will be going to Lake Como to take a break from their busy schedule and spend some quality time together. The actress is also spending some time with her sister Shaheen Bhatt who is currently studying in London. Several pictures of Ranbir and Alia posing with their friends had surfaced the Internet and now, according to a report the couple is on a vacation.A A According to a Filmfare report, aBoth have them have been keeping extremely busy and were planning a holiday for a while now. This looked like the perfect time and Ranbir and Alia will soon be off to Lake Como as they love its scenic beauty. The two plan to go see various places across Europe. Post this holiday, they will get back to work.a A Lake Como has been Indian Bollywood celebs' hot favourite for some timenow From Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli to Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukoneas weddings, the luxurious Italian retreat is quite well-known for its scenic beauty. Ranbir and Alia visiting this place suggests thatA they might as well choose to traverse the path taken by Ranbir's ex-es if they plan on getting married soon. In the meantime, soon after the vacation, Ranbir will get back on the sets of Brahmastra as Ayan shared, through an Instagram post, that the preparation for Shiva (Kapooras character) in the next schedule is on the way. aShiva Sessions..Last Saturday, Berlin. Prep work for our next shooting schedule is on... and once again, our path led us to one of our most special collaborators on this journey - Ido Portal. (More on his role in helping Ranbir build his performance in another post...) For now, some random moments from our weekend brainstorming session with Ido... #preplife #traveldiaires #brahmastra,a the director wrote. The release of the movie has been delayed. It will open at theatres in the summers of 2020. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Bollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Nearing the end of the end, Game of Thrones season 8 saw a lot of our favourite characters death. After Jorah Mormonts painful death scene, we were left aghast on finding out about the fate of Missandeis. GOT fans watched in horror as Missandei became the latest character to meet a grisly end as she was executed under the orders of Cersei Lannister in scenes taking place on top of the walls of Kings Landing ad she cried out 'Dracarys!' A visual effects worker on the show has revealed that producers shot much of the action in a studio before editing actor Nathalie Emmanuel into the scene later on. Because for those who have not seen the scene, Missandeis execution takes place atop the walls of King's Landing, meaning that filming was quite high and susceptible to photographers taking shots from the edges of the set and spoiling the plot for fans. Luckily, the creators had to come up with the use of visual effects to conceal the secrecy of the plot. "The set was incredibly visible from the surrounding area, and the big concern for this season more than ever was the secrecy of the plot," Stefan Fangmeier, on-set VFX supervisor, explained in a behind-the-scenes clip. We wouldnt want to give away that Missandei is executed. Having her stand up there 40 feet high, there was no way to hide that. So later on we were adding her in there oftentimes as a digi-double, but for the close-up work we shot her separately on stage to composite her on that location, so we could put it together and its seamless. Despite going to lengths to stop spoilers leaking during filming, a minute-long preview of a scene from the penultimate episode leaked left fans fuming with anger over the hints left behind of how the series would end. For all the Latest Entertainment News, Hollywood News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Francesca Marino, a foreign journalist, has confirmed that up to 170 terrorists of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group were killed in the Indian Air Force air strikes on February 26. Marino earlier in an article wrote that eyewitnesses present at the site of India's February 26 bomb strikes against a JeM base saw up to 35 bodies were being transported out of the the site by ambulance hours after the attack. The dead, they recounted, included 12 men who were said to have been sleeping in a single temporary shack, and several individuals who had earlier served in Pakistan's military. Based on the different inputs that have been gathered over the last several weeks through my contact, it can now also be safely said that the impact of the strike immediately killed a large number of JeM cadres. The numbers estimated have ranged from 130-170, including those who have died during treatment. Those killed included 11 trainers, ranging from bomb makers to those imparting weapons training. Two of these trainers were from Afghanistan, Marino said in stringerasia.it To prevent news on the fatalities leaking through statements of family members of cadres, a group of JeM members also visited the families of those killed and handed over cash compensation to them, she added. The IAF had struck a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror training camp in Pakistan on February 26, in response to the February 14 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. RELATED Marino's report came days after JeM chief Masood Azhar was listed as a global terrorist by the United Nations Security Councils Sanctions Committee after China lifted its technical hold. The report said the Indian Air Force bombed the JeM camp at 3.30 am on February 26, 2019, a unit of the Pakistan Army reached the spot at around 6 am. The Pakistan Army unit came from their camp in Shinkiari, located some 20 kilometres away. "Adjacent to the Blue Pine Hotel, located on the foothill from where one starts the trek for the JeM camp, is a freshly painted signboard that indicates the presence of the Taleem-ul-Quran on the hilltop. Unlike the earlier board, all links to JeM leader and now internationally proscribed terrorist Masood Azhar has been removed. The camp area is still under the control of the Army, with a Captain rank officer of the Mujahid battalion in command," the report added. The access to the dust track leading to the camp is still restricted, even to the local police. Apart from a few children and 3-4 teachers, the camp has been cleared of any traces of it earlier being a JeM camp, according to the report. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to extend the deadline for the final National Register of Citizens of Assam, and said that the same has to published by July 31 this year. Exercise your discretion. Keep the law in mind. Whatever you want to do, publish final NRC by July 31. Maybe a day earlier, but not a day later, the court said. A bench comprising Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice R F Nariman also gave a "free hand" to Prateek Hajela, Assam NRC coordinator dealing with claims and objections of persons against wrong exclusion or inclusion of citizens in the NRC. The direction came after Hajela informed the bench that many persons, who had objected to inclusion of certain individuals in the draft NRC are not coming forward before panels which are dealing with such complaints. Earlier, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had criticised the Centre and the Ministry of Home Affairs plea requesting a suspension of the NRC work during the general election. The draft Assam NRC was published on July 30, 2018 in which the names of 2.89 crore of the 3.29 crore people were included. The names of 40,70,707 people did not figure in the list. Of these, 37,59,630 names have been rejected and the remaining 2,48,077 are on hold. A window ending December 31, 2018, was provided for those who wanted to file claims for re-inclusion. Within this same period, people who suspected that foreigners have made their way to the list were also allowed to file their objections. The final list is slated to be released by July 31. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The government is learnt to have returned to the collegium names of two high court chief justices recommended for elevation as judges of the Supreme Court, PTI quoted sources aware of the development as saying on Tuesday. On April 12, the Supreme Court collegium had recommended the names of Jharkhand High Court Chief Justice Aniruddha Bose, and Gauhati HC Chief Justice A S Bopanna for elevation to the top court. Seniority and representation of regions have been cited as reasons behind the government's decision, the sources said. While Justice Bose whose parent high court is Calcutta, is at number 12 in all-India seniority of judges, Justice Bopanna, whose parent high court is Karnataka, stands at number 36. Last year, the government had returned Justice Bose's name to the collegium when he was recommended to head the Delhi high court. "While recommending the names of Mr Justices Aniruddha Bose and A S Bopanna, the collegium has taken into consideration, apart from their merit and integrity, combined seniority on all-India basis of chief justices and senior puisne judges of high courts. "The collegium has also kept in mind the desirability of giving due representation on the bench of the Supreme Court, as far as possible, to all the high courts," the collegium resolution had read. The Calcutta High Court is represented in the Supreme Court by Justice Indira Banerjee. Justices S M Mallikarjnagouda and S Abdul Nazeer represent the Karnataka HC. At present, the Supreme Court has a working strength of 27. Its sanctioned strength is 31 judges, including the chief justice. (With PTI inputs) For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Prince William who shares three little Cambridgers with Kate Middleton knows the joy and maybe, the sleep-deprivation of a new dad a little too well. After all, havenat we all seen the Duke of Cambridge trying to stay awake in one of the press conferences? Apparently, asleep-deprivationa is the first thing that came to the Princeas mind when Meghan Markle and brother, Prince Harry welcomed Baby Sussex on Monday. Responding to the royal birth, the Duke of Cambridge said he's "absolutely thrilled" about his brother's new addition and is "looking forward to seeing them in the next few days when things have quietened down," according to Hannah Furness, royal correspondent forA The Telegraph. William then continued giving a tip or two about parenting in an epic dad joke, "I'm very pleased and glad to welcome my own brother into the sleep deprivation society that is parentingaa he added. "I wish him all the best. I hope in the next few days they can settle down and enjoy having a newborn in the family and all the sort of joys that come with that as wellaa Prince William adds. Prince Charles, who is headed to Germany with Duchess Camilla, "We couldnat be more delighted at the news and weare looking forward to meeting the baby when we return," according toA Sky News. New Delhi: Seen as a symbol and harbinger of peace, World Red Cross is an annual celebrated each year on 8 May to mark the birth of Henry Dunant, a Swiss man who came up with the Red Cross concept in 1859. History has it that the Red Cross was founded as a major contribution to the peace just after World War I by an international commission established at 14th International Conference of the Red Cross. This world's largest humanitarian network which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the societies in 186 member countries did not easily come into being as we know of today. Below are some fascinating facts about the being of the Red Cross we never knew about: The idea of the Red Cross came into being when In 1859, Jean Henri Dunant after failing to meet up with French Emperor Napoleon III, happened to witness the Battle of Solferino, in which some 40,000 troops were killed or wounded in a single day. Since neither army had much of a medical corps, Dunant organized a group of volunteers to bring food and water to the wounded, to treat their injuries and to write letters to their families. The idea behind the Red Cross was not approved by everyone: When the Red Cross came into being in 1859, not everyone was in favour of the idea, History has it that Dunant who praised British nurse Florence Nightingale for her passionate devotion to suffering humanity and for giving up the pleasures of opulence in order to devote herself to doing good. did not originally think highly of the Red Cross. Dunant was the first to secure he first Nobel Peace Prize in 1901 along with leading French pacifist Frederic Passy. The Red Cross society which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the societies in 186 member countries has more than 97 million staff, volunteers, and supporters. For all the Latest Lifestyle News, Others News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Barbara Sherwood Lollar, an earth sciences professor at the University of Toronto, has won the prestigious Gerhard Herzberg Canada Gold Medal for Science and Engineering for her work on ancient Earth water and for advancing the search for life on other worlds. Sherwood Lollar has been studying ancient water below the Earth's surface in mines on the Canadian Shield and around the world. She is only the second woman to win the award in its 28-year history. Her stretch at Cambridge University drove her fascination with underground water. She then began to probe the complex story of water found in unexpected places, particularly in deep mines around the world. When I look back now, I realize that the moments I get most excited about our science results are those moments when it feels like were found a secret, something no one has seen before, The Globe and Mail quoted her as saying. Jennifer McKelvie, a Toronto city councillor who earned her PhD in Dr. Sherwood Lollars lab, said her former supervisor was an ideal mentor who remains deeply committed to her students success. What I learned from her is the ability to form partnerships, to bring people together that might not otherwise work together, she said. In 2016, she was invested as a Companion of the Order of Canada "for her revolutionary contributions to geochemistry, notably in the development of innovative mechanisms for groundwater remediation, and for her discovery of ancient fluids that hold implications for life on other planets". Also in 2016, she was awarded the Bancroft Award by the Royal Society of Canada. She received the Logan Medal in 2018. For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: A killer asteroid after ruining the French Riviera in 2013, destroying Dhaka in 2015 and sparing Tokyo in 2017 is headed straight for New York. The asteroid, about 330 to 1,000 feet in diameter, would explode 9.3 miles above Central Park on April 29, 2027, with 1,000 times the energy of the nuclear bomb that decimated Hiroshima, according to news agency AFP. At the 2019 Planetary Defence Conference Experts from the liked of NASAs Planetary defence Coordination Office, ESAs Space Situational Awareness group, and the International Asteroid Warning Network huddled up to test humanity's readiness to face the catastrophic threat of a killer asteroid. The exercise set up by planetary defence experts is reportedly to gauge what would happen if authorities were unable to deflect a giant space rock hurtling toward Americas most populous city at 43,000 miles per hour. Two months may not be enough time to really evacuate, because youre evacuating people who are stuck, who have to rebuild their lives where theyre going. Youre going to have fleets of U-hauls, Brandy Johnson, who plays the role of an angry citizen in the exercise, referring to the rental moving trucks, told news agency AFP. But even eight simulated years of preparation weren't enough for scientists and engineers to deflect the killer asteroid successfully. "I think the exercise illustrated how time is the most valuable asset when it comes to asteroid hazards," NBC news quoted Richard Binzel, a professor of planetary science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a participant in the simulation as saying. "In reality, having many decades of warning gives us multiple options and multiple tries to prevent catastrophe." For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Finland: For the first time in over two decades, member states of the Arctic Council failed to agree on a final declaration at their bi-annual ministerial meeting on Tuesday, due to a US refusal to mention climate change. At the start of the 11th gathering of Arctic foreign ministers, in the Lapland town of Rovaniemi, Finnish Foreign Minister Timo Soini announced a change to the planned agenda, saying the final joint declaration would be replaced by ministerial statements. Several sources said it was because member states were unable to reach an agreement, with the United States alone refusing to mention climate change in the final text. I dont name and blame anybody, Soini, who chaired the meeting, told reporters. But of course, it is clear that climate issues are different from the different viewpoints and the different capitals, he said. In place of the traditional declaration, the council released a shorter ministerial statement, which set out future goals for the organisation but conspicuously made no mention of climate change. But Soini also took the unusual step of releasing much of the rejected declarationcomplete with climate goalsas a chairs statement. The hang up here right now is America making it hard to make a final agreement, Sally Swetzof of the Aleut International Association, one of six organisations representing indigenous peoples, told AFP. The Arctic Council groups Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, and the United States, and their cooperation is usually frictionless. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo assured his Arctic counterparts that the Trump administration shares your deep commitment to environmental stewardship. He insisted America was doing our part in protecting the climate, and said the US has reduced emissions of black carbon more than any other Arctic Council member state. The US has repeatedly pointed to Russias failure to submit information about its own emissions as a reason why environmental targets do not work. Collective goals, even when well intentioned, are not always the answer, Pompeo told the meeting. They are rendered meaningless, even counterproductive, as soon as one nation fails to comply, he said. In a speech on the eve of the meeting, Pompeo instead pledged to strengthen the USs Arctic presence to keep in check the aggressive attitude of China and Russia in the resource-rich region. On Tuesday Chinas foreign ministry hit back at Pompeos remarks, calling them a misrepresentation of the facts that has ulterior motives. The Secretary of States speech also drew strong criticism from some pressure groups. Americas Arctic ambivalence is a far greater threat than the ambitions of Russia and China combined, Victoria Herrmann of the Arctic Institute said in a statement. For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: An explosion on the third day of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan shook Afghanistan capital on Wednesday. However, no causalities have been reported so far. I can confirm an explosion in the Shahr-e Naw area of Kabul. We are checking the details, Ferdaws Framurz, a spokesperson for the citys police force, told news agency AFP. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it targeted the American NGO Counterpart International, which is working with the U.S. Agency for International Development in Afghanistan. Last month, Taliban fighters had attacked a convoy carrying Afghanistans vice president Abdul Rashid Dostum, in an assault that left the former warlord unscathed but killed one of his bodyguards, an official told AFP. Enayatullah Babur, Dostums former chief of staff, said the hour-long attack also left several others in the convoy wounded. The attack occurred in the northern province of Balkh, where Dostum had held a rally earlier in the day. On Twitter, a Taliban spokesman said the insurgent group had carried out the attack and claimed four of Dostums bodyguards had been killed. Dostum, a powerful ethnic Uzbek leader, is notorious in Afghanistan for extreme barbarities and for repeatedly switching loyalties over 40 years of conflict. Despite a catalogue of war crimes attached to his name and accusations of organising the rape and torture of a political rival, Dostum became Afghanistans first vice president in 2014. Last year the Taliban announced a three-day ceasefire at the end of Ramadan after Ghani declared a unilateral truce for eight days earlier in the month. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Asia Bibi, the Pakistani Christian woman who was freed following acquittal in the blasphemy case, has left her country. A CNN report said that she has reached Canada. Bibi, a mother of five from Punjab province, was taken out of the country after repeated death threats from religious extremists in Pakistan. Bibi's case attracted widespread outrage and support from Christians worldwide. Earlier, the Pakistani lawyer who secured the acquittal of a Christian woman facing the death sentence for blasphemy is himself seeking protection from European governments, his French lawyer told AFP on Friday. Saif-ul-Mulook has been targeted by death threats since his the spectacular acquittal of his client Asia Bibi, a labourer from central Punjab province on death row since 2010. "He is hoping that people will take into account his heroic actions in defending Ms Bibi, given the current circumstances in Pakistan, which led him to exchange his freedom for hers," Mulook's lawyer Francois Zimeray told AFP. "He does not want to seek asylum, but rather to ask for European nationality," Zimeray said. Mulook fled to the Netherlands last November after violent protests erupted over the Pakistani Supreme Court's decision to overturn Bibi's death sentence from 2010. He returned to Islamabad on January 26 to defend Bibi as she faced another appeal of the supreme court's decision, which was rejected on Tuesday. Bibi, who was detained in protective custody, was seeking asylum in a North American or European country, and unconfirmed reports have said her children are already in Canada. The country's foreign ministry had confirmed last month that Bibi was free to leave the country after her years-long legal ordeal, which drew worldwide attention to religious extremism in Pakistan. Even unproven accusations of blasphemy in Pakistan have caused lynchings and murders. Religious groups have said "they would kill her despite the judgment of the Supreme Court," Mulook said after the court's decision. "Therefore, I think she should leave the country." (With agency inputs) For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. London: Former "Baywatch" star and now animal rights campaigner Pamela Anderson spoke emotionally after meeting WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in a London prison on Tuesday, warning that his life was in danger. "It's been very difficult to see Julian here and to make our way through the prison to get to him was quite shocking," said Anderson, who visited Assange several times when he lived as a fugitive inside Ecuador's embassy. "He's a good man, he's an incredible person. I love him. I can't imagine what he has been going through," the US actress and former Playboy model said outside Belmarsh prison, wearing a large cape with slogans calling for the defence of free speech. "We need to save his life. That's how serious it is," she said, adding: "We just have to keep fighting because it's unfair. He's sacrificed so much to bring the truth out". Anderson, who lives in France, starred in the hit US series "Baywatch" and is now a prominent animal rights activist. British police arrested Assange at the embassy last month after Ecuador withdrew his asylum after seven years. He had sought refuge there to escape extradition to Sweden where he had been accused of rape and sexual assault. Assange is now serving out a 50-week sentence for jumping bail and is contesting an extradition request from the United States where he is wanted for hacking. WikiLeaks published hundreds of thousands of classified documents exposing US military wrongdoing in the Iraq war and diplomatic secrets about scores of countries. WikiLeaks editor-in-chief Kristinn Hrafnsson, who visited the prison with Anderson, said: "Julian Assange is bent but not broken. He's an extremely resilient person. "I want you to think about the fact that such resilience usually comes from the fact that he knows that he is innocent," he said. In a separate legal case, Assange was also found guilty of breaching the UK's Bail Act by Westminster Magistrates' Court in London last month after his arrest at the Ecuadorian Embassy, where he had sought refuge in 2012 following his bail over sexual assault allegations related to Sweden. At a sentencing hearing at Southwark Crown Court, Judge Deborah Taylor told Assange it was difficult to envisage a more serious example of breach of bail conditions. "By hiding in the embassy you deliberately put yourself out of reach, while remaining in the UK," she said. In a letter read to the court, Assange apologised ?unreservedly? to people who feel he had disrespected them by the way he pursued his case. "I found myself struggling with terrifying circumstances for which neither I nor those from whom I sought advice could work out any remedy," he said. Assange's legal troubles date back to February 2011, when London's Westminster Magistrates Court ordered his extradition to Sweden to face allegations of sexual offending, including an allegation of rape. He was granted bail on conditions throughout the appeals process, which culminated in June 2012, when he entered the Ecuadorean Embassy seeking asylum. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, shared the first glimpse of their newborn royal son. "He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm. He's been the dream,"A Meghan, who was introducing the child wrapped in a white shawl, said. Prince Harry said: "I don't know who he gets that from." The couple confirmed they will introduce the Queen to her eighth and newest great-grandchild later on. "It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy," she said. The duke added: "It's great. Parenting is amazing...It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy." On May 6, the royal family welcomed the baby boy, making him seventh-in-line to the British throne. The 34-year-old father, Duke of Sussex, was present at the birth of his boy, who weighs 3.2 kg. The new father, Prince Harry, told reporters that Meghan and the baby were doing "incredibly well" and that the couple were "absolutely thrilled" since the birth at 0526 am (local time). "It's been the most amazing experience I can ever possibly imagine. How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension,a said Prince Harry, making a brief media appearance as a new father. "It was amazing, absolutely incredible. I'm so incredibly proud of my wife and as every father would say, this baby is absolutely to die for? So, I'm just over the moon," he said, confirming that the baby was "a little bit overdue" and that the couple were still deciding on a name. "The couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives," the palace said, adding that, "More details will be shared in the forthcoming days." Meghan, 37, went into labour "in the early hours" in the morning. #WATCH The Duchess and Duke of Sussex, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry with their baby boy for the first time, at Windsor Castle, UK pic.twitter.com/khCCGJt0KJ a ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 The new royal baby, as Queen Elizabeth II's eighth great grandchild, will be seventh-in-line to the British throne. He or she will be in line behind its grandfather Prince Charles, uncle Prince William and his children aPrince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louisa and father Harry, Duke of Sussex. However, the baby will not be bestowed a title of His or Her Royal Highness (HRH), or referred to as a Prince or Princess, unless the 93-year-old monarch steps in to make an exception to the royal titles rule dating back to 1917. The boy will be able to use one of Harry's lesser titles to be known as the Earl of Dumbarton. Meghan, a former actress, and Harry got married at a lavish wedding ceremony in Windsor Castle in May last year and announced the pregnancy publicly in October 2018, on the first day of their Commonwealth tour of Australia and New Zealand. In a break from usual royal tradition, the couple have chosen to keep the birthing plans for their baby a private affair and said that they would be announcing the birth publicly only "once they have a chance to celebrate privately as a family". The Duke and Duchess of Sussex had moved out of their London home at Nottingham Cottage in Kensington Palace into their newly-refurbished 10-bedroom family home at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor on the Queen's estate recently in preparation of the new arrival. Their new home has a curious Indian history as the cottage which was a royal gift to Abdul Karim by Queen Victoria, then Empress of India, in recognition of his service and as a sign of her affection towards her Indian aide and confidant. Karim, whom the monarch referred to as her aMunshia, was just 24 when he arrived in England from Agra to present Victoria with a special mohar or gold coin to mark her Golden Jubilee in 1887. He quickly grew close to the ageing monarch, who bestowed many gifts on him including Frogmore Cottage for his own use. Harry and Meghan, who have been based at Frogmore Cottage since early April, were appointed Youth Ambassadors for the Commonwealth by the Queen and there have been some speculative UK media reports on them choosing to be based in Africa as part of that role in the future. (With inputs from agencies) For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Britain's Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle on Wednesday named their newborn son Archie. The announcement came after the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh were introduced to their eighth and newest great-grandchild. "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor," the royal couple announced on their official Instagram account. A Earlier, speaking in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle as Prince Harry cradled their two-day-old child, Markel said, "He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm". "I don't know who he gets that from," Harry was quoted as saying by the BBC. A There was no mention of a potential royal title for Archie, it said. A Talking about their first few days as parents, Meghan said, "It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy". "It's great. Parenting is amazing. It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy," the duke added.A On May 6, the royal family welcomed the baby boy, making him seventh-in-line to the British throne. The 34-year-old father, Duke of Sussex, was present at the birth of his boy, who weighs 3.2 kg. #WATCH The Duchess and Duke of Sussex, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry with their baby boy for the first time, at Windsor Castle, UK pic.twitter.com/khCCGJt0KJ a ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 The new father, Prince Harry, told reporters that Meghan and the baby were doing "incredibly well" and that the couple were "absolutely thrilled" since the birth at 0526 am (local time). "It's been the most amazing experience I can ever possibly imagine. How any woman does what they do is beyond comprehension,a said Prince Harry, making a brief media appearance as a new father. "It was amazing, absolutely incredible. I'm so incredibly proud of my wife and as every father would say, this baby is absolutely to die for? So, I'm just over the moon," he said, confirming that the baby was "a little bit overdue" and that the couple were still deciding on a name. "The couple thank members of the public for their shared excitement and support during this very special time in their lives," the palace said, adding that, "More details will be shared in the forthcoming days." Meghan, 37, went into labour "in the early hours" in the morning. The new royal baby, as Queen Elizabeth II's eighth great grandchild, will be seventh-in-line to the British throne. He or she will be in line behind its grandfather Prince Charles, uncle Prince William and his children aPrince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louisa and father Harry, Duke of Sussex. However, the baby will not be bestowed a title of His or Her Royal Highness (HRH), or referred to as a Prince or Princess, unless the 93-year-old monarch steps in to make an exception to the royal titles rule dating back to 1917. The boy will be able to use one of Harry's lesser titles to be known as the Earl of Dumbarton. Meghan, a former actress, and Harry got married at a lavish wedding ceremony in Windsor Castle in May last year and announced the pregnancy publicly in October 2018, on the first day of their Commonwealth tour of Australia and New Zealand. In a break from usual royal tradition, the couple have chosen to keep the birthing plans for their baby a private affair and said that they would be announcing the birth publicly only "once they have a chance to celebrate privately as a family". The Duke and Duchess of Sussex had moved out of their London home at Nottingham Cottage in Kensington Palace into their newly-refurbished 10-bedroom family home at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor on the Queen's estate recently in preparation of the new arrival. Their new home has a curious Indian history as the cottage which was a royal gift to Abdul Karim by Queen Victoria, then Empress of India, in recognition of his service and as a sign of her affection towards her Indian aide and confidant. Karim, whom the monarch referred to as her aMunshia, was just 24 when he arrived in England from Agra to present Victoria with a special mohar or gold coin to mark her Golden Jubilee in 1887. He quickly grew close to the ageing monarch, who bestowed many gifts on him including Frogmore Cottage for his own use. Harry and Meghan, who have been based at Frogmore Cottage since early April, were appointed Youth Ambassadors for the Commonwealth by the Queen and there have been some speculative UK media reports on them choosing to be based in Africa as part of that role in the future. (With inputs from agencies) For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: A gunman took four hostages in a convenience store on the outskirts of the southern French city of Toulouse on Tuesday. The 17-year-old armed boy kept the hostages for four hours before releasing them but himself remained inside the store surrounded by police. Authorities werent certain of what the hostage taker was demanding. No injuries were reported. The youth seized the hostages at 4.20 pm (1420 GMT) in the town of Blagnac, near Toulouse airport, according to a national police spokeswoman as reported by news agency AP. Local state television France 3 reported that the hostage-taker fired three shots in the air, is wearing a helmet fitted with a camera and demanded to speak with a negotiator. The suspect was not known to police, the spokeswoman said, declining to divulge details of his identity while the standoff was still underway. Police locked down the neighborhood, evacuating some buildings and ordering other residents to stay inside, according to neighbor Robert Texier. A police helicopter circled overhead. The police spokeswoman and a security official said it was too early to rule out terrorism without knowing the hostage-takers demands. Both officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorised to be publicly named. The national terrorism prosecutors office said it is following the situation. Its worrying. It all happened so quickly, said Texier, who expressed surprise at the incident in what he described as a quiet neighborhood on the banks of the Garonne River. He said the convenience store has been run for decades by a woman and her daughter who live in the adjacent building. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Dubai: In a freak accident, an Indian aviation technician with Kuwait Airways was killed while towing an aircraft at the company's base airport, according to a media report on Tuesday. The technical staff member, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, was towing the Boeing 777 aircraft when the tow bar broke, killing him on the spot on Monday. The technical staff member was killed during a towing accident at the company's base airport on May 6, the Khaleej Times reported, quoting airline's tweet. The report, however, did not identify the deceased technician. No crew members or passengers were on board the aircraft when the incident happened, it said. Necessary investigations are being carried out on the incident by the concerned authorities to determine the cause of death. Kuwait Airways has expressed their regret at the tragic incident, the report said. Towing involves moving of large aircraft from the runway to the terminal or hangar. The victim is survived by his wife and daughter. According to media reports, his body was taken to the mortuary following inquest and will be flown to Kerala. Meanwhile, India has friendly relation with Kuwait. Recently, the death sentence of 15 Indians, lodged in Kuwaiti jails, have been commuted to life imprisonment by the Emir of Kuwait. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif returned to jail in a procession of Pakistani workers on Tuesday to complete the remaining period of his seven years imprisonment in the Al-Azizia Mills corruption case. Maryam and nephew Hamza Shehbaz along with hundreds of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) workers accompanied the three-time former premier to surrender himself to jail authorities. Sharif (69), was granted six-week interim bail by the top court on March 26 to undergo medical treatment and he filed the petition on April 27 for permanent bail as he was suffering from acute anxiety and depression that may lead to sudden death. Sharif, 69, is serving a seven-year imprisonment in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption case at the Kot Lakhpat Jail since December 2018. Earlier, Nawaz Sharif had said, "I will not accept the PTI government's disdainful behaviour of pushing me around in the name of medical treatment from one irrelevant hospital to another. I prefer honourable death over kneeling to the Imran Khan government's derogatory exploits," Sharif told his younger brother Shahbaz Sharif at Kot Lakhpat jail. The Sharif family is complaining that the government is not providing health facilities to the former premier who has serious health complications. Sharif said the government is doing political victimization "in the name of medical treatment". For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: UK's Westminster Court on Wednesday rejected for the third time bail application of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, the main accused in the Punjab National Bank fraud and money laundering case amounting to up to USD 2 billion. Modi, who was arrested by Scotland Yard on March 19 in connection with the Rs 13,000 Crore PNB loan default case, will now have to appear on May 30. Dressed in a light blue shirt and trousers, the 48-year-old appeared before Westminster Magistrates Court Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot and sat behind a glass enclosure as the hearing got underway. Modi's defence team doubled the bail security to 2 million pounds and offered he would stay on 24-hour curfew at his London flat. "Conditions in Wandsworth (prison) are unliveable... Modi is willing to abide by any conditions you choose to impose," his barrister Clare Montgomery told the Judge during the lengthy hearing. However, the judge was not convinced. Judge Arbuthnot denied bail to Nirav Modi as she feared that he would fail to surrender. Earlier, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), arguing on behalf of Indian authorities, said Modi should not be granted bail as the evidence presented by the defence does not amount to change of circumstances required to the third bail application. Modi's defence team, led by barrister Motgomery, who was also the barrister for former Kingfisher Airlines boss Vijay Mallya in his extradition case - opposed the CPS claims of Modi being a flight risk. He is believed to have been living in the UK on an Investor Visa, applied for in 2015 at a time when the so-called 'golden visa' route was relatively easier for super-rich individuals to acquire residency rights in the UK based on a minimum of 2 million pounds investment. He was denied bail by District Judge Marie Mallon at his first hearing on March 20 soon after his arrest by Scotland Yard officers from a central London bank branch as he tried to open a new bank account and has been in custody at HMP Wandsworth prison in south-west London since then. He was denied bail a second time on March 29 by Chief Magistrate Arbuthnot who ruled that there were "substantial grounds" to believe that he would fail to surrender and also noted that "very unusually in a fraud case" the accused had made death threats to witnesses. Modi and his uncle, Mehul Choksi, are the main accused in the PNB scam and they both left India before the details of the fraud came to light in January 2018. He is wanted by India in relation to the Rs 13,500-crore PNB fraud case. With PTI Inputs For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Prime Minister Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf party is Pakistans richest political entity with assets worth over Rs 375 million, according to the data released by Pakistans Election Commission. The ECP revealed the assets of 81 political parties of Pakistan on Tuesday. According to the documents, PML-N is the second richest with assets worth Rs250 million. The data showed that assets of the PTI had increased by Rs 220 million in one year due to massive funding by overseas Pakistanis, mostly by those living in Britain, the US and Canada. Imran Khan provided an affidavit that the party did not get any funding from any illegal source or the banned group. The party is facing a case filed in 2014 about the alleged corruption in foreign funding. The Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) of ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif is the second richest party with assets valued at over Rs 253 million. The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of former President Asif Ali Zaradri is the third richest party with total assets of Rs 167 million, according to the data. The rightwing Jamaat-e-Islami owns assets worth Rs 106.3 million, it said. Sheikh Rasheed-led Awami Muslim League is the poorest among Pakistans political parties with assets worth Rs138,000. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: Atleast nine people were killed and several injured following a powerful blast outside Data Darbar, a popular Sufi shrine, in Pakistans Lahore on Wednesday. According to Pakistani daily Dawn, the area has been cordoned off and rescue operations are underway. No terror group has claimed responsibility for the attack. The nature of the blast or the chemical used in the explosion are yet to be ascertained. DawnNewsTV said that DIG Operations Lahore is reaching the site and will also meet the injured admitted in a nearby hospital. Early reports suggest that the blast was especially targeted at the van of Elite police force team. Heavy contingents of Punjab Police have reached the blast site. As per initial reports, a vehicle of the police, deployed at gate no 2 of the Data Darbar was targeted, resulting in death of four people and injuries to other 15 people. The Geo News reported that 'three police officials were killed martyred in Lahore blast. The report also said that nearly 20 people were injured in the blast. The bodies and injured were moved to Mayo and General hospitals of the city, some of the patients are said to be critical. Data Darbar shrine has emerged a major economic, political, and social centre in Lahore. The shrine was greatly expanded in the 1980s under the rule of military dictator Zia ul-Haq, during which time the shrine became the largest in South Asia. Nine years ago, in July 2010, Data darbar shrine was targeted by two suicide bombers. 42 people were killed in the attacks. Thousands of people visit the shrine at the time, officials say. It holds the remains of a Persian Sufi saint, Abul Hassan Ali Hajvery. The shrine is visited by hundreds of thousands of people each year from both Sunni and Shia traditions of Islam. The 2010 attack was the biggest on a Sufi shrine in Pakistan since militant attacks began in 2001. In 2009, gunmen attacked three security facilities in Lahore, leaving 28 dead. Laster in December in same year, two bombs killed 48 at a market in the city. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. A Bahraini drug trafficker, who managed to escape after spending nine years in the captivity of Iranian drugs lords, had a shock of his life when he landed in jail after returning to the Kingdom. The man, according to his lawyer Abdulrahman Ghunaim, was unaware of the case registered against him in the kingdom. His gang was busted in a police operation back in 2009 during an attempt to smuggle 50 kilograms of hashish into the Kingdom from Iran by sea. The Bahraini man was tried in absentia, said lawyer Abdulrahman Ghunaim, who had filed an appeal against the verdict. Ghunaim informed the court that his client was kept as a hostage by the drug lords in Iran to persuade his fellow gang members to smuggle Hashish into Bahrain. April was slightly warmer than normal this year in the Kingdom, according to newly released met data. April is considered as transitional season period from winter to summer which usually associated with unsettled weather known locally as (Al-Sarrayat) which extends up to mid-May. Northwesterly to Northerly winds accounted for 48 percent of the observation. Easterly winds accounted 16pc of the observation with gusts reaching 48 knots on the 12th April at Bahrain International Airport. Blowing dust reported on the first April. Visibility dropped to 1000 meters at Bahrain International Airport. Mean temperature The mean temperature, according to the Meteorological Directorate, of the month was 25.5 C which is 0.5 C above the long-term normal for April. The highest mean monthly temperature ever recorded in Bahrain for April was 27.6 C which occurred in April 2017. The mean maximum temperature of the month was 29.8 C which is 0.7 C above the long-term normal. The highest temperature recorded during the month was 37.9 C which occurred on the 17th April at Bahrain International Airport. Lowest 19.1 C The mean minimum temperature of the month was 22.5 C which is 1.0 C above the long-term normal. The lowest temperature recorded was 19.1 C set on the 13th April at Bahrain International Airport but recorded 17.2 C on the 23rd April at Durrat Al Bahrain. The mean relative humidity for April was 54 percent whereas the mean maximum relative humidity was 72pc and the mean minimum relative humidity was 33pc. EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini yesterday urged Turkey to reconsider plans to start exploratory drilling for oil and gas off Cyprus, already condemned as illegal by the European Union. We express grave concern over Turkeys announced intention to carry out drilling activities within the exclusive economic zone of Cyprus, Mogherini said in a statement. In March 2018, the European Council strongly condemned Turkeys continued illegal actions in the Eastern Mediterranean, she added. In this context, we urgently call on Turkey to show restraint, she added, warning that the EU would respond appropriately to any illegal action that violated Cypruss rights. On Friday Turkey sent out a message on NAVTEX, the international maritime navigational telex system, announcing its vessels would be carrying out drilling operations in the Mediterranean until September. According to reports in the Cypriot media, the operation will encroach on Cypruss exclusive economic zone. Turkey first announced it would be drilling for oil and gas off Cyprus back in February. The discovery of gas reserves in the eastern Mediterranean has prompted claims by the internationally recognized Greek Cypriot government and Ankara, which backs a breakaway Turkish Cypriot administration in the north of the island. European Union member Cyprus has been pressing to develop offshore gas deposits and has signed deals with energy giants Eni, Total and ExxonMobil that have seen them carry out exploratory drilling. DANBURY Mayor Mark Boughtons $261.5 million budget passed though Democrats on the City Council are not happy with the citys spending plan. The budget was approved 14 to 7 at Tuesdays City Council meeting with all of the Democrats opposing. The biggest critique was there wasnt enough money for schools and cultural components, such as the Danbury Museum and Tarrywile Park. But Boughton said Wednesday, Were very pleased that were able to provide a zero-tax increase to our residents. We think they need a break. Councilman Robert Taborsak, however, said Danbury is one of the most economically successful cities in the state and should be doing more, especially for the schools. Its inadequate for the various needs in a city which I feel has the most diverse population in the state, he said. We can do much better and we should do much better. Personally, Im ashamed of Danbury being 169th of the per pupil expenditures in the state. Councilman Duane E. Perkins proposed adding $1 million to the schools, a move that only the Democratic minority on the council supported, so it failed. Perkins said the money could be used to help students and families with mental health issues by hiring staff or starting programs. We have an opportunity at least to begin to make some changes in the right direction, Perkins said. Were at a critical juncture here, folks. Boughtons approved budget includes $5.2 million of the schools requested $7.7 million increase. He said this is much higher than any of the school increases in the area, and the fact that there are seven schools of distinction in the district shows the schools have been appropriately funded. It also continues several school projects, such as the boiler replacement, freshman academy plan, and providing new roofs and a track at the high school. During the meeting, Boughton said it was important to find the balance between giving the schools more money and what residents could afford. All council members who spoke agreed the state should be giving the city more money, especially considering how much Danbury is contributing in sales tax. Boughton also said the operating expenses didnt accurately reflect the investments into the cultural parts of the budget, such as for the Danbury Museum, where the city will pave the parking lot for $46,000, or at Tarrywile Park where they will repair roofs for $50,000 to $60,000 each and replace boilers. On Wednesday, Boughton said he thinks what was offered to these two groups was fair but that hell keep working with them. Chris Setaro, the Democratic mayoral candidate, also chimed in outside of Tuesdays meeting. The citys budget has ballooned more than $100 million in the last 18 years an increase of more than 70 percent, Setaro said in a statement. While this latest budget proposal doesnt increase the mill rate, it still increases spending by more than $4.5 million. But not enough of those dollars are going to our schools, to improving our roads, or hiring more police officers. Boughtons budget also includes $4.5 million for road work, including paving, fixing potholes, installing guardrails and improving drainage. And there is $2.2 million to fix the runways at the airport, which will mostly use federal money. This is a good, solid, measured budget that keeps Danbury moving forward, Boughton said. kkoerting@newstimes.com; 203-731-3345 DANBURY Uncle Sam wants you to visit his new home at the Danbury Railway Museum on White Street. I think its a real good spot for Uncle Sam, Mayor Mark Boughton said. I think hell really pop in that area. Crews were in the museum parking lot Thursday preparing the site where Uncle Sam will stand. The mayor said the statue should be standing by mid-May. The city initially wanted to put the 38-foot-tall statue along Interstate 84. We had one spot on Mill Plain with good visibility, but we got concerned about safety ... and we werent sure that wed be able to make sure it doesnt get vandalized out there so we sort of abandoned that idea and started looking for spots downtown, Boughton said. The city decided to put Uncle Sam on the railway museum property for more than one reason primarily because the museum property is city-owned. They lease that from us, and theres (an area) thats not in their lease where were going to put Uncle Sam, Boughton said, adding Uncle Sam may draw people to the museum. The location is near Leahys Fuels founder John W. Leahy was the last owner and general manager of the Great Danbury State Fair. Boughton said Leahy was one of the fairs original stockholders. Boughton said Danburys statue is the largest Uncle Sam statue in the world. There is an Uncle Sam in Wisconsin that people claim is the bigger, but that Uncle Sam is on a 15-foot-high platform, he said. When I say largest statue, Im counting just the Uncle Sam not the base or anything like that. Boughton said he is trying to have signs placed on the highway encouraging the public to come visit the worlds largest Uncle Sam. Uncle Sam statue returned home to Danbury in December, after more than 35 years at the Magic Forest Amusement Park in Lake George, N.Y. Magic Forest adopted more than 600 figures from the Danbury Fair after it closed in 1981. Upon its homecoming, the statue was stored in a hanger at Danbury Municipal Airport. In February, Uncle Sam was on the move again this time to Harwinton for restoration. The restoration was funded with money raised through corporate partners and service organizations, Boughton said in February. kendra.baker@hearst.com DANBURY The Uncle Sam statue is on the move again this time to Litchfield County for restoration. The Danbury Public Works Department posted photos and video to Instagram Wednesday, showing the 38-foot-tall statue being loaded onto a trailer and driven to Harwinton. Mayor Mark Boughton said an enthusiastic vendor is refurbishing the entire statue, and the project is expected to take about a month. The vendor already started restoring Uncle Sam and has discovered the statue once had a different face. His old face was built over a whole bunch of newspaper from 1975, DPW posted on Instagram, adding that Uncle Sams old face has some crazy eyes. On Dec. 20, Uncle Sam returned home to Danbury after more than 35 years at the Magic Forest Amusement Park in Lake George, N.Y., which took in more than 600 figures from the Great Danbury State Fair after it closed in 1981. After returning two months ago, Uncle Sam was stored in a hanger at the Danbury Airport so it could be restored. Boughton said the cost of the restoration is not yet known, but a limit has been set at $25,000. We raised money through corporate partners and service organizations, Boughton said. Boughton said the city has not identified a new location for Uncle Sam. Theres state land that we want to put it on, but were also looking at city and local property we have options, the mayor said. Boughton said he wants the statue to be visible from Interstate 84, and there are a couple areas near Exit 1 and 2 that are also being considered. Regardless of where Uncle Sam winds up, Boughton said, he wants the statue to be easily accessible to the public so that people can drive up and take selfies and pictures with the giant figure. kendra.baker@hearst.com A fire at Lakeside Drive Extension in Ridgefield last week was caused when the homeowner fueled a lawn mower inside his garage and attempted to start it, Fire Chief Jerry Myers said. He reported that it burst into flames, Myers said Tuesday, May 7. The very fast moving fire caused significant damage to the garage, the bedroom directly above the garage, and the attic space. It appears that the fire from the garage extended up the outside of the home and reached the eaves and into the attic space. The other parts of the structure received smoke damage but were not burned, according to the fire chief. The first firefighters on the scene were met with zero visibility and high heat, Myers said. Their aggressive attack on the fire resulted in most of the structure being saved, he added. Credit should be given to the homeowner who had the foresight to close the door between the basement and the main floor, which significantly reduced the ability of the fire to spread. Danburys Miry Brook Volunteer Fire Department sent mutual aid to the scene, and it took firefighters about 30 minutes to knock down the flames, Myers said. The homeowner was transported to the hospital for burns, the severity of which was not disclosed. On Monday, the American Red Cross said it was helping assist the family of four. The Red Cross said it was providing comfort kits containing personal care items, such as toothbrushes, deodorant; shaving supplies and other items a resident might not have been able to gather in the rush to escape the fire. In addition, a recovery envelope containing information helpful to families recovering from a fire, including tips on cleanup; notification of important contacts; dealing with damaged items and more was provided. A new report that delves into the K-12 experiences of American Indian and Alaska Native students found that roughly half of them have never been exposed to their native languages in school or at home. The paper, which explores findings from the National Indian Education Studya report that comes out every four yearsfound that students in schools with a larger share of American Indian and Alaska Native students were more likely to be exposed to native languages than were their peers in schools with fewer native students. Overall, students attending Bureau of Indian Education schools were more likely to report being exposed to Native languages sometimes or often when compared to their peers attending traditional public schools. The National Indian Education Study, administered as part of the National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP), collects data on a nationally representative sample of 4th- and 8th-grade American Indian and Alaska Native students in public, private, Department of Defense, and the Bureau of Indian Education schools. The study is designed to provide tribal leaders, educators, policymakers, and researchers with data about the education of native youth, including a look at how connected they are to their cultures and languages. The survey asked students about the integration of native culture into school and classroom activities. The findings indicate that students who performed well on the NAEP were more likely to have access to: a school library, media center, or resource center that contained materials about American Indian and Alaska Native people; more than 25 books in their homes; and a home computer. Fourth-grade students who reported being exposed to native languages often were more likely to express interest in reading about their cultures. Overall, about 40 percent of the students reported having some cultural knowledge with 13 percent reporting they knew nothing about their cultures or current issues important to American Indian and Alaska Native people. Eighth-graders at Bureau of Indian Education schools were twice as likely as their peers to report having a lot of cultural knowledge. Eighth-grade students who reported being exposed to native languages often were more likely to express a high level of cultural knowledge in comparison with their peers who had less exposure to native languages. Fourth-grade students who reported being exposed to native languages often were more likely to express interest in reading about their cultures. Native American students make up about 1 percent of all students nationally. About 8,500 4th-graders and 8,200 8th-graders participated in the survey. While students at Bureau of Indian Education schools were more likely to have ties to native languages and cultures, 90 percent of American Indian and Alaska Native students attend traditional public schools. National assessment results, including those from NAEP, show that American Indian and Alaska Native youth underperform compared to their peers in other groups. One of the greatest challenges is ensuring that Native students are able to perform well academically while maintaining their Native cultures and languages, according to a statement, from a panel of educators, that accompanied the release of the study. For Native students to achieve their full potential, educational systems and practices must work diligently to feed their bodies, nurture their spirits, and grow their minds. The adoption and use of culturally relevant teaching and learning practices is critical to achieving this goal. Heres a look at the report and a statement accompanying the findings . Related Reading Education in Indian Country: Obstacles and Opportunity Most Native Americans Receive English-Only Instruction Nations Report Card Shows Strengths, Shortfalls for Native American Students Image Credit: National Indian Education Study 2015; U.S. Department of Education This appeared in Wednesday's Washington Post. - - - Local elections in Turkey about five weeks ago offered encouraging signs that the country's democracy was still alive. Opposition candidates won mayoral races in several of the most important cities, including Ankara, the capital, and Istanbul, which is Turkey's largest city and the political base of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The results suggested that pluralism was reemerging in Turkish politics and that Erdogan, who has ruthlessly consolidated power in recent years, would be obliged to allow more space for it. Instead, Erdogan has moved to reverse the democratic opening - and, with it, the hopes that his authoritarianism could be contained. On Monday, responding to an appeal from the ruling party, Turkey's election board, whose members are dependent on the party for their jobs, ordered a new election in Istanbul. It did so even though the narrow victory of opposition candidate Ekrem Imamoglu in the March 31 vote was confirmed by a recount and he had already taken office. The ruling depended on a technicality: that not all the polling station officials were government employees. Turks who have fought Erdogan's attacks on independent media and civil society now have a new loss to mourn: Never before has a Turkish government refused to accept the results of an election. They must hope that Erdogan's strong-arm move backfires and that he again loses Istanbul when the new vote is held next month. Fortunately, there is reason to believe that may happen. The president's appeal of the election results was controversial even inside his party, where a rift has been growing between the clique around him and those who favor democratic practices. Opposition leaders, who united behind Imamoglu in an attempt to defeat the ruling party, rightly decided to participate in the new election despite the election board's questionable ruling. Imamoglu, for his part, has offered a refreshing contrast to the polarizing president, stressing his wish to serve all of Istanbul's 16 million inhabitants. The material stakes of the revote will be high. Istanbul's mayor controls a budget of $10 billion that Erdogan's party has used to fund patronage networks and friendly media. If the new election is seen as unfair, Turkey's already battered economy will take another hit as more foreign investors flee a country where the rule of law can't be assured. The political importance of the outcome will matter even more. It will tell Turkey's NATO partners, along with the rest of the world, whether the country can still be distinguished from neighboring Central Asian despotisms. Turkey's Western friends should spend the next few weeks telling Erdogan that Istanbul's election must be free and fair - and that he must accept the result. For those who love history, few experiences are more stirring than taking in the Renaissance-era monuments, grand, Gothic cathedrals, and medieval walled villages on the antique streets of Europe. But we've got news for you, Old World obsessives: Despite being a relatively young country, America punches way above its weight when it comes to historic cities. In the United States, history is very much a living thing. As Shakespeare said, past is prologue: Many of those events, battles, and social movements that altered the trajectory of the nationand sometimes the worldalso shaped the homes, neighborhoods, and cities we live in today. Some of our top metros retain historic districts from their formative days, filled with beautiful, older homes that connect the present day to the past. And that makes these places extremely attractive destinations for buyers fascinated by times gone by. Where can you find them? The realtor.com data team set out to find America's most historic cities. We looked at the 500 largest urban areas, focusing on the per capita number of properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the number of National Historic Landmarks. (These are both federal destinations that deem historic sites to be preserved.) Finally, we looked at the property description of homes in these markets on realtor.com to calculate a share of historic homes. Hartford, Conn. comes in at number seven with 144 properties listed on the Historic Register and eight national historic landmarks. Scroll down to read more and click through the slideshow to see some of SW Connecticut's most historic buildings. Claire Widman These places include the ones you'll remember from history class, where the Revolutionary and Civil Wars were fomentedas well as lesser known ones that nevertheless played a crucial role in this country's past. So what are the advantages of living in a historic place? "Historic districts tend to hold their value better during economic downturns, and they appreciate more during upswings," says Tom Mayes, vice president for the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, DC. Historic homes "come with a built-in character. They have a uniqueness and distinctiveness. ... They give you a sense of perspective in our own lives and help us to understand where we are on that [historic] timeline," says Mayes. But buyers need to do their research before snagging an old home, adds Mayes, also the author of "Why Old Places Matter." Many of these antique abodes require costly maintenance and updating. (A century-old plumbing system? Shudder.) And there are often restrictions on what sorts of changes can be made on homes in historic districts, such as the type of doors or windows that can be put in in keeping with the character of the neighborhood. This can add up to big bucks for homeowners. OK? Let's take a tour of America's past. Best of all, you didn't have to ace history to appreciate these historic cities. Median list price: $949,000 National Registerlisted properties: 209 National Historic Landmarks: 19 In the days of Colonial America, a handful of wealthy British aristocrats, known as Tories, built large Colonial, Queen Anne, and Italianate homes in Cambridge with the inflow of money from their plantations in the West Indies. But they didnt keep them for long. Soon these aristocrats were driven out of the country once a band of patriots won the American Revolution. Cambridge and its massive estates wouldnt sit empty for long. The growing upper ranks of American society would come to occupy the city that was home to Harvard University, which was founded in 1636. There were sections of the city that became enclaves for the working class, who toiled in nearby factories making everything from soap to machine parts. They mostly lived in multifamily homes made out of clapboard. But once World War II ended, the city went through a transformation. Industrial smokestacks would be replaced by corporate firms and startups that were sapping up grads from Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, also in Cambridge. "We have strong historic preservation here," says Charles Sullivan, executive director of the Cambridge Historical Commission. "We've had very little teardown culture. A lot of developers are focused on upgrading existing homes." The boxy, clapboard, three-story homes that the working class occupied have been rebuilt into upscale housing. These homes can easily exceed $1 million and attract wealthy financiers from nearby downtown Boston and affluent academics and techies from Harvard and MIT. Architecture enthusiasts may want to check out Tory Lane, near Harvard. Built by a handful of British aristocrats in the 18th century, it consists of about a half-dozen stately, three-story Colonial estates. Median list price: $305,000 National Registerlisted properties: 100 National Historic Landmarks: 33 Charleston, founded by English colonists in the 17th century, is known to history buffs for playing a starring role in the start of the Civil War. The conflict that would divide America was ignited when secessionists attacked Fort Sumter in 1861, shortly after President Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated. Charleston had a vested interest in the outcome of the war: It's estimated that about 40% of slaves in North America landed in the city's port from their homelands. After losing the war, the city was deeply hobbled. It wasn't until the Charleston Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s that the area began seeing cultural and corporate growth again. The city's distinct eras each had an impact on its architectural landscape, ranging from Colonial and art deco homes to Georgian and Gothic Revival residences. Today that architecture, along with the town's beaches, seafood, and cobblestone streets, are big draws for its tourism industry. "The residents are invested in preserving their city, so we have many zoning laws and preservation initiatives in favor of saving that historical architecture," says Carl Borick, director of the Charleston Museum. "South of Broad Street in the historic district is our crown jewel. That was the heart of the original Charleston from all those years ago." But these older homes aren't cheapand neither is the upkeep. Median list price: $139,900 National Registerlisted properties: 251 National Historic Landmarks: 0 The most iconic building in Davenport, IA, on the Mississippi River, is its grand clock tower built in 1895 as part of City Hall. Local legend has it the roughly $90,000 price tag wasn't paid for by the city's most devout churchgoers, but by taxes on local brothels and saloons. Whether or not that's true, Iowa's third-largest city was indeed home to a plethora of rowdy speak-easies and dance halls in the Bucktown neighborhood, earning Davenport a rep as "Wickedest City in America." Bucktown, founded by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, has since been transformed with many of its older buildings and factories being turned into loft apartments. But Davenport's checkered past extends beyond speak-easies. Dredd Scott, a slave who sued for his freedom in 1846 and lost, lived for a time in a large, brick estate near downtown. The case, Dred Scott v. Sandford, led to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 1857 that slaves didn't have the legal rights of American citizenship. It substantially increased tensions between the North and South leading up to the Civil War. Those who want to own a bit of history here can purchase one of the area's older homes dating to Davenport's industrial roots. Among homes for sale on realtor.com, 25% in the Davenport region are at least 75 years old. Many are two-story homes with front porches and hardwood floors priced under $100,000. Median list price: $174,900 National Registerlisted properties: 435 National Historic Landmarks: 17 Many Americans aren't aware of the rich history of St. Louis. In summer 1904, athletes from around the world ascended on St. Louis for the third-ever Olympic Games. It helped put this rising city, founded in 1764, on the world map. The city's growth was spurred in the early 20th century by industrial firms, including beer titan Anheuser-Busch. It brought a flood of immigrants, many of them German, who built up the city and the homes within it. Some of those older homes are hot commodities today. "Buyers like the fact that each historical house here has a story," says Mark Johnson, a real estate agent with Keller Williams. In neighborhoods such as Soulard, Lafayette Square, and Benton Park, buyers can find everything from brick bungalows built in the early 1930s to newer, three-story mansions. According to historians, the southeastern neighborhood of Carondelet has homes dating to the 1700s. Median list price: $496,500 National Registerlisted properties: 61 National Historic Landmarks: 7 Most Western cities are younger than their East Coast counterparts. But not Santa Fe, NM. The area was occupied by Native American tribes as far back as the 1100s and incorporated in 1610 by the Spanish. The Palace of the Governors dates to the 1600s and is the oldest continually used government building in the nation. The unique pueblo-style and adobe architecture of Santa Fe is inspired by the climate and available materials. The Spanish used mud and clay brick to build sandy-colored, boxy homes with flat roofs and small windows, designed to stay cool during the day and warm in the night. Over the years they've become a prime tourist attraction, Historic neighborhoods such as the Plazahome to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and much of the city's art scenehave seen home costs soar. Unfortunately this has priced out some of the city's original descendants, with lineage to the Spaniards. "They're not able to live in the areas in the historic places where their grandparents and parents lived," says Andrew Lovato, historian for the city of Santa Fe. Median list price: $599,000 National Registerlisted properties: 596 National Historic Landmarks: 71 After the American Revolution, Washington, DC, was created in 1790 from land donated from Virginia and Maryland. But the city's position as the U.S. capital was far from secure. It was almost moved after British soldiers invaded the city in 1814 and burned the White House to the ground. But the War of 1812 would soon pass and the capital remained where it was. Over the next 200 years many of the country's most significant events would take place herefrom Abraham Lincoln's assassination, to the Watergate break-in, to the Supreme Court ruling in favor of gay marriage. In fact, it's hard not to find history in this city. History buffs should check out Capitol Hill, lined with beautiful 100-year-old Colonial row homes. The upscale neighborhood Georgetown, which has been the home to scores of famous Americans like Jack Kennedy, is packed with two-story brick homes built 150 years ago. And Brightwood, where Lincoln became the first sitting president to receive enemy fire, has gorgeous Colonial-style brick homes. Median list price: $224,900 National Registerlisted properties: 144 National Historic Landmarks: 8 Favorite son Mark Twain, who lived in Hartford from 1874 to 1891, wrote Adventures of Huckleberry Finn here. The Mark Twain House, a National Historic Landmark, looks like a brick medieval fortress and is built in American high Gothic style. And next door is the three-story cottage where Harriet Beecher Stowe lived for the last two decades of her life, another landmark. But these are far from the only historic homes youll find here. Neighborhoods such as Asylum Hill are lined with huge 19th-century Victorian houses priced under $300,000. Founded in 1636 by Puritans seeking religious freedom, the city finally made a name for itself nearly 200 years later, as a manufacturing juggernaut and one of the wealthiest cities in America. As one of the nation's oldest cities to boot, Hartford has the oldest publicly funded park (Bushnell Park) and the oldest continuously operated public art museum (Wadsworth). Median list price: $239,900 National Registerlisted properties: 170 National Historic Landmarks: 12 Roger Williams, a Puritan minister who was banished from the repressive Massachusetts Bay Colony, crossed the river and founded Providence, RI, in 1636. "Once he settled in, he built Providence without a central church, so residents could worship as they pleased," says Geralyn Ducady from the Rhode Island Historical Society. "So unlike most New England towns, there wasnt a church in the middle. All the homes were built along the river. The properties were built so that everything went straight back. Youd have your main house on the river, and behind that the carriage house, behind that the orchard, and behind that the family burial plot." After the Revolutionary War, Providence transitioned into an industrial city with factories popping up around town. Many of the spacious Victorian homes built during this period are still around, including the three-story William F. Sayles house, which was built in 1878 and now priced at $1.7 million. More than a few of these multibedroom homes have become popular options for cash-strapped students at Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, sparking fears that they're driving up local housing prices. Local politicians have been looking at ways of limiting the number of undergraduates who can stay in the homes as a result. Median list price: $241,300 National Registerlisted properties: 263 National Historic Landmarks: 18 When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Richmond, VA, one of the country's largest slave trading hubs, became the capital of the Confederate States of America. Tredegar Iron Works, which produced military equipment and ship parts, was considered a backbone of the Southern war efforts. Long before the Civil War began, Richmond was already a historically significant city. The 1775 speech by Patrick Henry in which he declared Give me liberty or give me death was delivered at the still-standing St. Johns Church. Today Richmond has a number of historic neighborhoods oozing Southern charm. Jackson Ward is a historically black neighborhood that has become a pioneering mecca for jazz, ragtime, and swing music, and was once dubbed Harlem of the South. And buyers won't go broke buying a home in the area. This one-bedroom condo in a row house built in 1870 is priced at $229,000. Median list price: $199,900 National Registerlisted properties: 243 National Historic Landmarks: 5 The capital of Arkansas may be best known for one of the more shameful periods in American history. During the height of segregation, a group of nine black students enrolled at the all-white Little Rock Central High School in 1957. Gov. Orval Faubus called in the Arkansas National Guard to block the students from entering the school. The students, who came to be known as the Little Rock Nine, were finally able to enroll after President Dwight Eisenhower stepped in. "Race remains a prominent theme of life in Little Rock. A number of the neighborhoods and schools are [still] virtually segregated," says Jess Porter, chair of the History Department at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Things are improving, but progress is slower than most would like. Homes in the Little Rock Central High School District, where the famed school is located, tend to be bungalows, Victorians, Tudor Revivals, and Colonial Revivals, many of which are in need of some TLC. That's reflected in the neighborhood's median price of just under $90,000less than half of the median price tag in the city proper. Sources: realtor.com and the U.S. National Park Service Allison Underhill contributed to this report. The post National Treasures: Top 10 U.S. Cities Where You Can Live in a Piece of History appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com. An Albany lawyer today admitted to a decade of scheming more than $2 million from his former clients and law firm. Albert Hessberg III, 64, of Slingerlands, pleaded guilty in federal court to wire fraud, mail fraud and filing a false tax return, prosecutors said. Hessberg schemed his clients and former law firm, now known as Barclay Damon, for 10 years, according to prosecutors. Hessberg worked at the law firm for 37 years, handling trusts and estates. The Syracuse-based firm is one of the largest in Upstate New York, created from the merger of Hiscock & Barclay and Damon Morey in 2015. The law firm fired Hessberg in March 2018 and reported his conduct to federal officials, prosecutors said. He was suspended from practicing law later that year. Officials said his scheme included: Stealing a total of $2,060,803. Taking money from one client to replenish the account of another client hed stolen from. Billing clients for legal work he never performed. Having clients pay him directly when payments were supposed to be made to Barclay Damon. Hiding income he gained through the scheme by lying in his income tax returns. Hessberg faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Mae DAgostino in September. China has consistently remained in the headlines recently as the back and forth between Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping continues. Discussions about imports, tariffs and the ongoing trade war have attracted the majority of the attention, but theres another story developing just below the surface often overlooked is China going to control the future of technology? Over recent years, Chinese tech firms and conglomerates have been hard at work not only producing more content (websites, apps and services) but expanding and acquiring additional companies of their own. One of the most prominent examples can be seen with the explosive growth of the Chinese-developed TikTok, a widely popular short-form video app. Growth and Acquisitions Currently, TikTok is in the midst of a legal battle after news broke of a potential ban on the app being upheld in India. But beyond concerns of protection of its users is another surprising fact thats the main reason authorities are even paying attention to the app in the first place. In the first quarter of 2019 alone, TikTok added as many as 188 million new users of which 88.6 million were Indian. The Chinese app has erupted in popularity both in India and globally, warranting additional scrutiny from regulators. But TikToks success story isnt just one of growth within the app, its included acquiring promising companies as well. The owner of TikTok, ByteDance, successfully bought a similar Chinese giant, Shanghai-developed Musical.ly, to merge with the app for a reported $800 million. The acquisition brought with it 100 million users and was one of the first Chinese apps to successfully penetrate the American market. Now, other Chinese conglomerates are looking to replicate that success by acquiring more companies to aid in their expansion beyond just social media. More recently, the highest valued fintech company on the market, Ant Financial, has begun making acquisitions of its own. The Alibaba affiliate has agreed to purchase another fintech company, WorldFirst, though details about the sale have not been disclosed. This recent purchase marks the efforts of Chinas most successful company expanding into newer markets yet again. It will be interesting to see how the UK-based payment company and currency exchange fits into the plans of the Chinese powerhouse. Ant Financial already has a fintech play of their own, Alipay, though is looking to expand operations without drawing too much scrutiny. Favorable Conditions and Lots of Capital Besides success with consumers, Chinese companies enjoy very favorable market conditions compared to many of their western counterparts with a lot of room for growth. One area in particular this growth can be seen is in venture capital spending and investments. Nine years ago, the United States was far ahead of the globe in venture capital spending with $30.8 billion compared to Chinas $5.6 billion. However, by 2018 China has nearly caught up to the US boasting an impressive $105 billion in VC investments compared to $111 billion for the US, a drastic shift over the past eight years. Venture capital expenditures in the region reflect shifts not just in the economic power of China, but in the technological development as well. With the rise in VC spending has come an impressive amount of unicorns, privately held startups valued at over $1 billion, in the country as well. Though not yet on par with the US, China is second when it comes to startup unicorns with the vast majority of startups focusing in the tech space. Looking Forward With a high-growth mindset and what seems like nearly limitless capital for investment, China could well be on its way to challenge much of the current tech world. Unlike the China of the past, known for imitating successful tech companies in the US, the tables are beginning to turn. More investment for startups can often translate to more creative and innovative ideas as weve seen in recent history. Mobike, a Chinese bike-sharing app launched in 2015 saw success in Shanghai and Beijing witnessed an eerily similar concept take the US by storm three years later with the rise of scooter-sharing apps like Bird and Lime. Is China going to be a new leader in tech, not a follower? It will be interesting to watch things play out. ANSONIA Town/City Clerk Janet Vitarius Waugh has apologized to city residents for her weekend arrest on a disorderly conduct charge. I shouldnt have acted the way I did; thats not in my character, Vitarius Waugh said Tuesday night. I ask the city and its residents to forgive me. This is a matter that impacted my personal life, she continued. Its now over with and it wont affect my duties with the city. Vitarius Waugh, 57, said the incident involved a 75-year-old man, who the police report identifies only as S.H. She said the man was living as a tenant in her Prospect Street home. While Vitarius Waugh said she had a business relationship with the man, she denied being romantically involved with him. She said she has been having difficulty getting him to move out, which resulted in her losing control. On Tuesday, Acting Police Chief Andrew Cota said officers were dispatched four times to the home between Saturday evening and early Sunday morning. He said Vitarius Waugh wanted the tenant out and officers advised her about the eviction process. She also was warned after the third call that if they came out again she would be arrested. Early Sunday morning, the man told police Vitarius Waugh locked him out of his room leaving him unable to get his medication. When police returned shortly before 4 a.m. Sunday for the fourth time, they charged Vitarius Waugh with disorderly conduct. She appeared in Derby Superior Court Monday and was ordered to return on June 13. She is free on a $1,000 non-surety bond. Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor charge. In domestic disputes like this a judge usually allows a defendant to participate in a pre-trial diversion program and may include taking anger management classes. Upon successful completion, the case is closed and the charges are wiped clean from a persons record. Vitarius Waugh is serving her second two-year term as the Town/City Clerk, which pays about $77,000. She defeated former Town/City Beth Shortell Lynch in the past two elections. As Town/City clerk, Vitarius Waugh is responsible for maintaining city records, issuing various licenses, insuring boards and commission agendas are filed and minutes maintained and serving as the contact person when lawsuits are filed against the city and summonses are issued for city records and witnesses. On Tuesday, Mayor David Cassetti issued a statement calling upon her to resign. These are serious charges involving a public official whose conduct and actions should comport with her position, Cassettis statement read. Although I have limited authority as it pertains to elected officials, he continued, I believe it is in the best interest of Ms. Vitarius Waugh and the residents of this city that she strongly consider resigning from her office so that her personal issues do not continue to detract from her public duties. Vitarius Waugh said Tuesday night she would not resign from her position and expects to seek re-election in the fall. I think I have been doing a good job as the clerk, Vitarius Waugh said. I have been able to obtain state grants to preserve our older books containing vital records both in bound copies and on microfilm. I volunteer at almost every city event and am part of the Adopt-A-Spot program. The Adopt-A-Spot program is an effort by the city to beautify certain areas particularly traffic islands. The adopters are asked to keep the spot clean of litter and weeds and maintain flower plantings there. The business relationship is over. The man is out of my house, Vitarius Waugh said. I hope the residents can forgive me and I can get on with my life and my job. Democrats need at least 10 more votes to pass recreational marijuana this year, legislative sources say. Gov. Ned Lamont isnt giving up on legalizing recreational cannabis this year, but hes also not making it a priority as he focuses on getting tolls through the legislature by closing time on June 5. The marijuana debate differs from the fight over tolls in one key way: Lamont is making tolls the centerpiece of his economic plan, complete with arm-twisting behind closed doors. By contrast, neither Lamont nor top legislative leaders are leaning hard on lawmakers to vote for legalized ganja. I think the legislature is taking more of the lead on that, Lamont said Wednesday. Ill report back. I dont want to leave that to the black market. That doesnt mean its not the subject of horse-trading, but opposing adult nonmedical retail sales or voting for it, among Republicans isnt going to land a lawmaker in the doghouse the way tolls will. As a conscience vote, it can collect some Republican support, but as one Democrat said, proponents arent counting on that. They are counting likely votes, which break down as follows according to Rep. Josh Elliott, D-Hamden: In the House, 66 Democrats solidly in favor; nine against; and 16 on the fence. The Senate likely has the votes to get legal weed across the finish line, even with some negotiations expected, so the onus is on the House. To win, supporters need at least 10 of those 16, or Republicans to replace Democratic naysayers. There are rumors about a couple of GOP supporters but no one in the minority party has declared public support. House Majority Leader Matt Ritter said, to his knowledge, there is still not one Republican vote in favor of legalization, which would ease the burden on swaying some of the Democrats on the fence. No one wants to engage, Ritter said. Whatever happened to the libertarian moderate Connecticut Republican? Because it would be nice to have some of their votes on this issue. For those undecided Democrats, their concerns run the gamut from age restrictions, the inability to test drivers, expunged records for those whove been convicted of a marijuana-related felony, and where revenues would be targeted. That means getting to a final piece of legislation will be a balancing act to keep both the moderate and progressive edges of the majority party satisfied, while at the same time pushing hard on higher priority issues in the final month of the session. Rep. Joe Verrengia, D-West Hartford, chair of the Public Safety and Security Committee and a former cop, is undecided how he will vote on legalizing marijuana. The main concern that I have from a public safety standpoint with respect to marijuana is the driving piece of it, the drugged driving, he said. Law enforcement in general with its technology is not caught up to the extent that it needs to be with respect to the detection piece. As for whether legalization could be implemented as part of the overall budget bill, its unlikely so dont count on seeing it there. I think that would be hard, said House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin. Its a plus and minus situation, where you have some people who are nos on that particular issue but would be a yes on the budget overall. For us to do that as leaders, its a pretty complex piece of the puzzle. You can put some enabling language, if we did do it, into the budget. But to put a straight up or down vote on that is tough. Emilie Munson and Dan Haar contributed to this story. kkrasselt@hearstmediact.com; 203-842-2563; @kaitlynkrasselt HAMDEN The towns fiscal authority has refused to take money out of the pension fund to pay its bills. Mayor Curt B. Leng requested $2,471,370 be transferred from the town pension contribution fund to various accounts to pay town bills and contracts, but the item failed to pass the Legislative Council vote. Out of 12 accounts that the administration was requesting transfers for, none but two of the transfers passed. The only ones approved were $235,000 for Fire Department substitute/straight time pay and $40,000 for overtime. I think this is a political vote, Republican Councilwoman At Large Marjorie Bonadies said to the rest of the council. We need to fund these departments its disgusting. The requested transfers included $100,000 for natural gas; $101,000 for water; $150,000 for electricity; $183,000 for street lighting; $300,000 in police overtime; $50,000 for police extra-duty town jobs; $515,500 in public works tipping fees; $250,000 CMERS pension payment; $150,000 for the town attorney office, anticipating funding needed to handle an April 16 police-involved shooting; and $396,370 in workers compensation. Councilman Cory OBrien, D-6, argued the town was asking the council to not pay its biggest bill the pension. He said the pension has an unfunded liability of about $293,000 and every year its not funded at 100 percent, the larger the burden on residents and future administrations. This year the council voted to fund the pension at 100 percent around $22 million whereas the town typically has only funded it at the required contribution. This years payment was a little more than required, at about $16 million. Here we are at the end of the year and the administration has made no attempts to control costs, OBrien said. So (Leng) is having the council agree to underfund the pension. OBrien said every one of the transfer accounts were funded above the mayors request last year. OBrien called it a manufactured crisis. The transfer request initially failed in the Finance Committee, but at the end of the meeting, the Fire Department transfers made it back onto the agenda under new business by a two-thirds majority vote. Councilman James Pascarella, D-8, who voted in favor, said he didnt know where the money was going to come from if not the pension. Im dying to know what alternatives there are, he said. I havent seen any other suggestions to pay them and I dont see any other line in the budget where we can find this level of funding to pay these expenses. Pascarella said he had no idea what will happen now. OBrien said the town may have to issue tax anticipatory notes mid-year, which would be a better option, because underfunding the pension also would lead to higher taxes in years to come. Its not about today, OBrien said. Its about how do we break the cycle. We have to have that unpleasant conversation and say enough is enough. He said the vote wasnt political for him and didnt even care about being re-elected if his effort to change practices led him there. Leng said transfers are inevitably needed every year because some accounts have more than needed while other have less. The only way to avoid this would be to intentionally over budget every single line and we have hundreds and hundreds of account lines, which would irresponsibly raise taxes higher than needed, Leng said in a statement. Its important to clarify fact from fiction, especially when certain members really seem intent on fabricating a crisis that doesnt exist. Leng said the transfer is similar to paying only for repairs on a car that are needed and reallocating budgeted money to cover immediate expenses. Deputy Finance Director Rick Galarza said after the council tabled the vote on the utility bills April 18 he called all the companies for an extension because he couldnt pay a bill without authorization. The town has a responsibility to pay its legal and contractual obligations, Galarza said. Galarza assured the utility companies wouldnt shut off any services and that he could ask for an extension, make partial payments or put the town on a payment plan with the utilities. Leng said he will sign a series of smaller transfers Wednesday that are within his authority to complete. We will make every effort to responsibly pay bills due and ensure continuation of essential service, while hoping that the Town Council reconsiders the overall transfer at one of their upcoming meetings, he said. mdignan@hearstmediact.com The New York Fire Department says six people, including four children, were killed in an early morning blaze in a Harlem apartment building. Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro says they received a call at 1:40 a.m. from a person across the street from the seven-story Fred Samuels Houses on Seventh Avenue near 142 Street reporting the blaze. WEST HAVEN The citys Ethics Commission has started an investigation into the vacation buyback program as it relates to elected officials, following public outcry over Mayor Nancy Rossi and former Mayor Ed OBrien selling back vacation time with the blessing of the city attorney and human resources director. Rossi and Democratic Party boss Mike Last said the maneuver is all political an attempt to stir controversy around Rossi. The Register was informed of the probe by a member of City Clark Debbie Collins mayoral campaign team; the chairman of the Ethics Commission was until recently one of her campaign managers and still supports Collins. This is obviously political and they are looking to harm the mayors good reputation, said Last. You will not find a more honest mayor. As part of the probe, questions have been put out to Rossi delivered Tuesday who is running for re-election, as well as City Attorney Lee Tiernan, Human Resources Director Beth Sabo and Finance Director Frank Cieplinski. Ethics Commission Chairman Brent Coscia said he stepped down from Collins campaign to handle the investigation, but said he still supports Collins for mayor. Rossi said not only is the investigation politically motivated, but the vacation buybacks arent a matter of ethics violations because they were legal. The probe was sparked, Coscia said, when City Council member Dave Forsyth publicly requested a probe into the buyback issue at a council meeting. Rossi said that isnt how the process is supposed to work that there should be a written complaint and it should be kept confidential until there is a finding, because anyone can file a complaint to try to make another look bad. At the center of the debate over whether mayors are allowed vacation buybacks is the interpretation of a City Council resolution that states elected officials shall not have a salary increase while in office and are entitled to the same benefits as union employees in terms of longevity, insurance, car allowance, retirement and workers compensation. Vacation buybacks are not mentioned specifically, leading many to believe they are not permitted, but Tiernan said the interpretation can go the other way because its not specified. Each person served with a paper as part of the investigation was asked different questions. Rossi was requested to provide emails, notes, text messages and other documents related to vacation buyback and compensatory time by May 22. She was also was asked three questions relating to the resolution: Does this resolution apply to the position of the city of West Havens mayor? Please explain how the approval for your buyback as mayor is reconciled with this resolution? How was your comp time as mayor of the city of West Haven accounted for and reported, and who oversees this process? The others were asked various questions including rules of payment, such as how compensatory time is accounted for, and whether comp time can be used in place of vacation. The commission also asked for documentation, payroll records, W-2s and more for Rossi, OBrien and Collins. Collins falls into the probe because her position as city clerk is the only other elected full-time slot. Collins said that in 20 years she has never taken a vacation buyback. The buyback has been at the center of controversy for months as City Council member Tracy Morrissey repeatedly raised questions about the practice at public meetings. The mayors position doesnt come with paid vacation time because he or she makes their own hours and gets a base salary of $87,014 per year. Rossi has disclosed that OBrien, when he left, was paid for 98 hours of vacation totaling $3,681.37 and personal days totaling $1,004.01, and she was paid after taking office for 70 hours of vacation, which totaled $3,346.70. Both Rossi and OBrien have said they were paid with a green light from the city human resources director and respective city attorneys. Rossi said Tuesday that according to Ethics Commission policy, until a finding of probable cause, such complaints are to be kept confidential. But Coscia said the rules were changed at the April meeting to keep policy in line with the city charter. He said ethics complaints involving requests for public information that are allowed under the Freedom of Information Act are now public. If the issue involves a personnel or medical issue, they are kept private, he said. Last said Collins team is desperate. I hope they go away, Last said. They are part of the group responsible for putting West Haven on the brink of ruin and if this crew ever gets elected, the city is doomed. Meanwhile, Rossi filed a complaint Monday with the Freedom of Information Commission claiming the minutes from the Ethics Commission April 11 meeting havent been made available, while the rule is they must be posted within 48 hours. Rossi, meticulous and a stickler for rules, researched the Ethics Commission files after being presented with the request for information from the Ethics Commission, which has subpoena power. Coscia said he is not aware of that 48-hour rule and believed the minutes were not to be posted until approved at the next meeting. Some critics say that because two weeks pay is over the mayors base salary, that it amounts to a pay increase, which violates a section of the resolution on another front. OBrien has said that as he was leaving office, he was told by human resources that the buyback was a benefit. Tiernan has written previously in opinions that the fact that buybacks arent specifically mentioned leaves it open to interpretation. In Rossis case, Tiernan gave the opinion that she was entitled to the benefit based on precedent set by OBrien, but said in a March 25 memo to City Council Chairman Ron Quagliani that he told Rossi the practice would end with her. Tiernan wrote in an email to Morrissey: I have stopped the practice which began with the previous mayor. Tiernan stated in the memo to Quagliani regarding the resolution that the vacation benefit is silent concerning vacation pay regarding elected officials, and he cited a Connecticut statute saying the absence of a written policy concerning vacation pay can result in the state finding that you, the employer, created an employee vacation benefit. He also said in the memo, I cannot find any evidence either mayor knowingly violated any rule, law, ordinance or practice concerning this matter. Third District council member Aaron Charney, a Democrat, who also is a lawyer, said in an earlier New Haven Register story, I think the attorneys opinion ending the practice is a backhanded way of saying Mayor Rossi should never have done this in the first place. Tiernan wrote that while the City Council has not officially altered the employee benefits for non-union employees resolution since Nov. 26, 2007, concerning vacation pay or benefits, the council developed a keen interest in the subject in 2017 and It was clear to the Commissioner of Human Resources and Personnel and the Director of Finance that the Council wanted greater accountability. Coscia said Tiernan, since questioned as part of the probe, might not be able to represent Rossi legally because there would be a conflict of interest. Rossi said legal representation outside the city attorneys office would be at great cost to taxpayers and Coscia should be held accountable. When the issue took hold in the public arena, it was suggested by many that Rossi and OBrien pay the money back. Rossi said at the time, If I thought for one minute that I received a benefit that was not appropriate, I would return the money immediately. This is a benefit that is available to all city employees including the Mayor. OBrien has said he would pay the money back if it was determined he wasnt entitled. The questions have been swirling for months around years of vacation buybacks, compensatory pay practices overall and overall comp time perks such as lifetime family health benefits being handed out in employee deals. Morrissey has led the charge for information past and present, asking for records on buybacks, compensatory hours and other employee information since January and said she hasnt received any meaningful documentation from Tiernan or the administration. Morrisseys stance is that the City Council resolution regarding elected officials is clear, because vacation buybacks arent specifically mentioned while the five other allowable items are. Rossi had strong words for At-Large City Council Democrat Forsyth when he requested the probe weeks ago. Rossi, a member of the citys Ethics Board for many years, said an ethics accusation is a very serious issue, has very specific rules for submitting a complaint, and does carry consequences for a false complaint and untruthful information. She said using the platform for political revenge is both unethical and illegal. She said Forsyth and Morrisseys concerns are politically motivated. Forsyth said at the time, I want to get down to the answer once and for all, and if its in violation, then both past and present should pay it back to the city. Forsyth said following past practices is not putting the city first. Rossi has often said she is among the lowest-paid mayors in the state and even though the city provides her with a car, she mainly uses her own car except for some longer trips to Hartford because of liability matters and that she buys her own gas and doesnt use a city credit card to buy lunches. Rossi also doesnt receive benefits through the city, she has said. The Constitution of the United States of America makes it very clear: The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude. Those are powerful words and most Americans believe as citizens, their power and influence lies in the truth those words bear. And yet, the right to walk into a voting station and exercise that right has left a bloody trail of resistance throughout this countrys history. Whether it was a contest of wills for women or a blood-fest for blacks and other minorities, the right to get to the polls has been and continues to be a political slugfest. Now, another group is demanding its constitutional right to have their say. As part of efforts to revamp the criminal justice system, Connecticut lawmakers are arm wrestling with advocates of prisoners rights over legislation that would, among other measures, give convicted felons on parole the right to vote and also grant voting rights to convicts behind bars. But why this is a conversation, let alone a serious debate, is beyond me. I am not sure about anyone else but it is issues such as this that always leave me questioning my humanity when it comes to the men and women behind bars. I do not sit on the shoulders of compassion when it comes to dealing with them. And I admit, I am not sure if it is not out of anger for the chaos they bring and what they destroy. Something unnerving just goes through me when they start talking about their rights. Beyond the basics of the right to be treated humanely and respectfully and not be harmed or abused while they serve their time, I could care less about their rights. And I would like to tell them why because maybe they have spent so many long hours staring at the ceiling, they have forgotten. Felons commit the most heinous crimes in our nation such as murder, aggravated assault or battery, manslaughter and arson among others. Many of them are rapists, murderers, robbers and terrorists. They are the baddest of the bad and in too many cases, they dont mind bringing the blood. But since they and their supporters want to talk about rights, by all means, lets do so because we, the people of the United States of America, have rights, too. We reserve the right to walk freely in the streets and not be shot, murdered or harmed. We reserve the right to open businesses and not have those businesses broken into, or robbed at gunpoint where workers and customers are killed or maimed. We have the right to hold public functions and not be blown apart and have lives tragically altered. We reserve the right not to have our homes broken into and our belongings stolen and our families terrorized. We reserve the right not to have the children of America kidnapped, tortured, thrown off bridges and severely burned and abused. I could go on and on and on but I think felons get the message. All of those rights and a lot more felons took away from people to satisfy their own warped sense of right and wrong in their time of presumed need. All of those rights they took and left families, loves ones and businesses hemorrhaging from the loss and their indifference. And now, they and their advocates want to play patty cake with lawmakers and legislation to get back their rights. But to me, just like the sound of the opening and closing of a cell door will probably never leave a convicts mind, so it is true that long after the prison sentence is over, their misdeed will continue to resonate in the lives of their victims. And lawmakers and advocates should not forget that as felons talk about their rights. Instead, they should be reminded the right to vote is exactly that; a right and the rights of felons have been taken away due to their egregious acts against humanity. Glenda Armstrong, president of the Greater Danbury NAACP, disagrees because every prisoner is not on equal footing and she stands by the Constitution. It takes away the one right that makes us equal, she said. They lose the right to be a person but they dont lose the right to be a citizen, she said. Armstrong said allowing felons to get in the habit of voting while behind bars is critical because it will help their transition back into society be easier and seamless. It keeps them in tune with their communities, she said. But unlike the advocates who stand on being humane, I never forget that where there is a crime, there is a victim and most victims will always be the ones the law leaves behind. As the judicial system evolves to become more fair, there are an estimated 6.1 million people nationwide with a felony conviction who are barred from the voting polls. According to a report in the CTMirror, Gus Marks-Hamilton, a field organizer with the American Civil Liberties Unions Smart Justice Campaign, estimates there are 4,600 Numeggers on parole who are working and paying taxes but denied their right to vote. Once again, I dont know why this is a conversation or debate. The last time I read it, the definition of freedom is the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. If the laws of this country turned the key and unlocked the door to freedom, then those felons should be granted the same rights that every citizen enjoys with that freedom. Under our laws, they have paid their debt to society and earned their right to head back to the polls. So I will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them and demand their voting rights and every other right that was taken away be restored. Otherwise, they are not truly free. I know this column will hit a lot of raw nerves but I am not politically correct, nor do I want to be. Somebody has get off those shoulders of compassion and look at the other side. Laws have no mercy for victims because the mercy and compassion is saved for those who committed the act. That is why my humanity is always challenged when it comes to the rights of felons and their talk of being disenfranchised. The sun doesnt shine on them for a reason. And I believe certain rights are given up by the people who take those same rights away from others. If felons behind bars want the right to vote, as far as I am concerned, they should have to earn it by serving their time and becoming free. And if they never will be free, that is the price they pay. Because they decided for whatever reason that three hots and a cot was worth the crime they committed. And in doing so, forgot that freedom is where the real power lies. And that is on them. Felons? The right to vote is a right. James Walker is the New Haven Registers senior editor and a statewide columnist for Hearst Connecticut newspapers. He can be reached at 203-680-9389 or james.walker@hearstmediact.com. @thelieonroars on Twitter NEW HAVEN A class-action suit over the citys new protocols that wait for a childs blood lead level to increase three to four times what now triggers a home inspection and abatement order, has been filed against the mayor, public health director and director of environmental health. The plaintiffs, two children whose blood lead levels remained high as the city allegedly failed to inspect their apartments for toxic levels of lead paint, are representative of a class of some 300 children as estimated by New Haven Legal Assistance Association attorney Amy Marx. Both plaintiffs now are exhibiting developmental delays, the suit states. A child under age 6 is considered lead poisoned if he or she has a blood lead level equal to or greater than 5 micrograms per deciliter of blood, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lead is particularly dangerous for young children whose brains are rapidly developing. The result can be a lower IQ, inattentiveness, anti-social behavior and hearing and speech problems, the CDC has reported. The 5 micrograms standard is the level at which health department inspectors would go in and test lead paint levels under the citys ordinance. This would set off a tight time frame to abate, a process for which city officials say they do not have enough inspectors. There are about a dozen new positions in the proposed 2019-20 budget, but no additional lead inspectors. The city has been advised by attorney Nancy Mendel that it can wait to check the lead conditions in an apartment until a child under age 6 shows two blood lead levels of 15 micrograms per deciliter over a three-month period, or until the level reaches 20 micrograms per deciliter. The suit charges Mayor Toni Harp, Public Health Director Byron Kennedy and Paul Kowalski, city director of environmental health, with violating the city ordinance that mandates earlier intervention in a policy that dates back to 1990. Mayoral spokesman Laurence Grotheer said the city does not comment on pending litigation. The suit seeks a preliminary injunction and an order from the court to immediately give proper notice to the families and inspect their Fair Haven apartments for toxic levels of lead in paint chips and dust and then issue an abatement order, if necessary. The mayor has also been accused in the suit of violating the separation of powers doctrine by infringing on the legislative authority of the Board of Alders to make and change laws, which is not within her purview. The suit claims that Kowalski and Kennedy overstepped their regulatory authority when they enacted a new rule to no longer conduct a full lead hazard risk assessment for children previously covered. A third claim alleges that the actions of the three officials violate federal and state due process rights as there was no public notice or comment on the changes. Kennedy has said the department only has two lead inspectors, down from a high of six when the policy was first initiated. New Haven has the strictest intervention level in Connecticut. We have not changed our policy in terms of what we tried to do when we had more resources, more capacity. When we have more and had more we obviously were able to do more with that, he said in an interview last week. He said his department lost an inspector when state funds were cut and more when other funding dropped. Obviously you prioritize what you actually have on your plate, he said, referring to meeting the states less-strict mandate. Asked, as a physician, did he think it was a good idea to wait for a child to be much sicker before moving toward abatement of the apartment where they live? I think the issue that we have, and other experts have talked about this already, we know we have some of the oldest housing stock in this country, and so the resources should actually be focused on addressing that comprehensively, he said. As a community and a country, what do we want to do to address that? Its a housing issue. He said around the country, tapping other resources, such as philanthropists and foundations who would add to the pot to defray the cost of abatements, has proven beneficial. California sued paint manufacturers and won $1.1 billion for cleanup in 2014. That was reduced to $400 million when it was limited to homes built before 1951 in an Appellate Court ruling. Would he recommend such action here? Kennedy said maybe a suit involving New England, which has the largest percentage of homes built before 1978 when lead paint was banned. A total of 83 percent of New Havens housing units were built before that date. Abating them all would cost more than the citys budget, he estimated. Marx said she agrees that the cost issue should be addressed, but the city cant make a responsible decision if it doesnt have an open conversation that involves the families whose children have been hurt, and experts who know how to reach improved outcomes. She said court cases she has brought showed the health department has not done a good job on lead and the city should fix those shortcomings, rather than throw out the ordinance. This is an opportunity for New Haven to be a leader and come up with best practices. It is not for the mayor and any department head to unilaterally change the law. The city is going in the wrong direction, she said, at a time when researchers are discovering how increasingly smaller amounts of lead are dangerous to young children. She views it as a moral issue as the children impacted are usually from lower-income neighborhoods. As for saving money, Marx said society should consider the cost of special education needed for those who have been hurt. Marx has brought five suits on behalf of families who need their apartments abated. Several have been in hotels for an extended period as obtaining federal Housing and Urban Development funds for a landlord is a long process. The attorney feels it could be done more efficiently. Kowalski said the cost to the city, so far, has been more than $60,000 when the court ordered New Haven to abate a property and relocate the family while the work was underway. But that money was quickly repaid when the home recently sold and a lien was removed. A request has been made for records on the cost of relocating families and if that was covered by the landlords or the city. City officials have evaded questions as to when it would switch to using the state standard. Marx, however, said city records indicate inspections have been curtailed since November. Also, a city attorney told Marx last month that no inspections were currently anticipated for either the Lombard or Wolcott street properties where the two plaintiffs live. Kennedy, as late as last week, estimated the new policy would kick in this summer, but said to check with Dakibu Muley, head of the citys Community Services Administration. Muley has been directed to find additional resources to deal with the lead cases and to look for efficiences. Muley said he is working on putting a lead abatement advisory group together as required by ordinance. The CSA director, who is now Kennedys boss, on Monday said he would have to check his notes on the switch. He did not answer an email seeking a clarification Tuesday. Nyriel Smith, 2, first showed she was poisoned by lead starting in July 2018, according to the suit, four months after she and her mother, Nichelle Hobby, moved into their Lombard Street home. Her levels were normal prior to living in the Fair Haven house. Nyriels blood lead level was 8 micrograms per deciliter of blood in July 2018; it was six micrograms on Aug. 27, 2018; 11 micrograms in December 2018; 9 micrograms in January 2019; and 9 micrograms in February 2019. The health department on Sept. 7 and 18 called Hobby to schedule an inspection, according to records. Not reaching her, it took no further action to set up an inspection. Marx said it was shortly after that that the city changed its policy with no public notice. The suit says Nyriel now suffers from developmental delays and intellectual disabilities, which emerged with regression and loss of language at the age of two when her blood lead levels first tested at a dangerously high level. She presently receives services from the Birth to Three Program regarding speech delay. Nyriel suffers irreparable harm from continuing to live in a unit with unabated lead hazards, the suit reads. Each time she had a blood test, the results were sent to the citys Health Department. Muhawenimana Sara, now 5, lives on Wolcott Street with her parents refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo and three siblings. Both apartments show signs of chipping and flaking paint on door frames, window frames and window sills. It appears to extend to the front porch railings and columns, as well as the exterior front door at Hobbys home. At the Wolcott apartment, chipping is present on the floor boards, and in the bedrooms within reach of the small children in the family, the suit reads. The Health Department was notified in February 2018 that then-3-year-old Muhawenimana, whom they call Sara, had a blood lead level of 8 micrograms per deciliter in February 2018. An inspector, in an unannounced home visit, made one attempt to schedule a lead hazard inspection, according to the suit. He left a business card with a note and education materials that were in English. Prior to the visit, the suit said he was in touch with the Yale Lead Clinic and was told the family spoke Swahili. The case was closed on April 5, 2018, because he had not heard back from them. In June, Sara had an elevated blood level of 10. The case was reopened but the inspector did not reach out to the family. Her blood lead level was 9 in October 2018 and 10 in February and April 2019. Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services had offered to translate. The case was brought to the attention of advocates by church members who know the family. Marx said Saras teachers were upset to see her regression when she was back in school after the summer. Sara suffers from significant development and intellectual disabilities and has regressed on language and pediatric milestones. She requires special education services, the suit states. mary.oleary@hearstmediact.com 203-641-2577 A 20-year-old Bergen County man was arrested Tuesday on charges he threw kitchen knives and a broken chair leg at police officers during a standoff lasting more than 90 minutes. Police were called shortly after 6 p.m. to a family disturbance on Eagle Street in North Arlington and were let into the home by family members, police Lt. Robert J. Reilly said in a statement. As officers tried to speak with Jordan M. Crato-Montiero, he began cursing at them, Reilly said. He then threw kitchen knives at them as they retreated to safety and removed other family from the residence, Reilly said. Officers set up a perimeter around the home and requested mutual aid from Lyndhurst police and members of the Bergen County Regional SWAT team. Police spoke with Crato-Montiero briefly on the phone and he made threats of harming responding officers and himself, Reilly said. At one point, he opened a window and threw two kitchen knives and a broken chair leg out the window at officers holding the perimeter, Reilly said. Officers were again able to get Crato-Montiero on the phone and convince him to surrender. The standoff ended about 7:30 p.m., police said. Jail records show Crato-Montiero was charged with several counts of second and third-degree aggravated assault, third and fourth-degree weapons possession and third-degree criminal mischief. He was held in the Bergen County Jail to await a court appearance. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A settlement is near in the years-long legal battle between the Township of Mahwah and the Ramapough Mountain Indians. The two sides have been at odds over the use of a 14-acre property on the banks of the Ramapo River, known as Split Rock Sweet Water, a Ramapough prayer ground. Mahwah argued that the tribe was violating zoning ordinances for erecting teepees and other structures on the site and issued them 10 summonses that carried fines totaling $12,500 per day for more than a year. (In September 2018 the fines totaled nearly $1.5 million). The tribe, meanwhile, accused the township of religious discrimination. The site was deeded to the Ramapoughs in 1995 by the developer of the Ramapo Hunt & Polo Club an enclave of million-dollar homes homes. The prayer ground, which tribe members have said dates back to the days before Christopher Columbus arrived in America, sits at the entrance to the housing development. The housing association has also sued the tribe over its use of the land, accusing it of violating zoning laws by holding large gatherings, allowing parking on narrow streets within the development and camping on the property. But their lawsuit was dismissed on Friday by a Superior Court Judge in part because of the pending settlement between the township and the tribe. The Polo Clubs lawsuit did not seek monetary damages it was just meant to force the tribe to apply for use variances and site plan approval like any other property owner, John Lamb, an attorney for the Polo Club said. Were very disappointed, Lamb said of the dismissal of the lawsuit. There were very clear violations of zoning ordinances ... they sidestepped a process that happens in every town in every county in New Jersey. Ramapough Chief Dwaine Perry said the settlement would erase all of the fines the tribe incurred at $12,500 per day, allow the Ramapoughs to put in a parking area and, he said, the town is going to help the tribe develop a place for large gatherings by Silver Lake, off Stag Hill Road. The Ramapoughs will also still be able to use Split Rock Sweet Water as a prayer ground and for gatherings, Perry said. Were pleased about reaching a positive agreement, Perry said. And Im hopeful in the future we can improve these relationships. This would be the second religious discrimination lawsuit Mahwah has settled in less a year. It also reached a settlement in September with the Attorney Generals office over allegedly targeting Orthodox Jews with two ordinances. Mahwah Mayor John Roth, who took office in November, said he cant comment on the Ramapough settlement. Nothing is finalized yet, he said, adding that the two sides are very close to a settlement. The Mahwah Council could vote on the settlement agreement when it meets Thursday if the documents are completed. Trying to get all the right parties to nod takes time, Roth said. But were trying to do it. Allison Pries may be reached at apries@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AllisonPries. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Mark DAmico, one of the three people accused of defrauding more than 14,000 donors out of $400,000 with a viral GoFundMe campaign, has been indicted on a slew of charges by a grand jury for his alleged role in the scam. DAmico, along with Kate McClure and Johnny Bobbitt, have been the subject of international headlines for a year and a half; first for raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to get Bobbitt, a homeless veteran, off the streets for Philadelphia, and then as the poster cases for a charitable campaign gone wrong. McClure and DAmico launched a GoFundMe in November 2017 that spun the now-debunked tale of how Bobbitt had come to McClures aid when she ran out of gas while driving on I-95 into Philadelphia, spending his last $20 to fill up her tank. The effort originally aimed to raise $10,000, but went viral, garnering 40 times as much. But by summer 2018, the money was gone, and Bobbitt began publicly accusing the couple of withholding cash that should have been is and instead spending it on a BMW, designer handbags and lavish vacations all while he was back on the streets. A lawsuit filed by Bobbitt brought new light to the story and ultimately led investigators to get involved. Now, authorities say Bobbitt never helped McClure, and that he actually met the couple while panhandling near a Philadelphia casino. The indictment was returned Tuesday announced Wednesday afternoon. DAmico, 39, faces six second degree charges, including financial facilitation of criminal activity, theft by deception, elements of computer theft, misapplication of entrusted property and conspiracy charges, according to the Burlington County Prosecutors Office. He was initially charged with conspiracy and theft by deception alongside McClure and Bobbitt. As the cases against McClure, 29, and Bobbitt, 36, moved swiftly over the past two months, DAmicos has continued to languish without updates. McClure and Bobbitt have entered into plea deals. Bobbitt has been sentenced to five-year special probation in state Drug Court, with the possibility of five years in prison if he cant abide by the requirements. He has also pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit money laundering, but no sentencing date has been set. McClure, who used to live with DAmico, also pleaded guilty in federal and state court. She could spend between 27 months and four years in prison in concurrent sentences. Still, DAmico faces no federal charges, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys Office confirmed. DAmicos lawyer, Mark Davis, has maintained his clients innocence, saying he was tricked by the same lie McClure used in the GoFundMe. The actions speak louder than words. The other two have pleaded guilty. The other two have been charged in both state and federal court, Davis told NJ Advance Media last month. Mark had no involvement in any criminal conduct. And well be happy to answer any charges at trial. McClures lawyer, James Gerrow, has described DAmico as the mastermind of the scheme, saying he manipulated McClure and even verbally and physically abused her. McClure is scheduled to be sentenced in Burlington County June 3 and federal court June 19, while Bobbitt has a status conference there June 18, but no sentencing date, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys Office said. Amanda Hoover can be reached at ahoover@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @amandahoovernj. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. The footprint near a groundbreaking archeological find in South Jersey is about to get a lot bigger. Husband and wife alumni benefactors of Rowan University have bought a 40-acre property on Woodbury-Glassboro Road in Mantua, Gloucester County next to an important 65-acre site already owned by the university. Jean and Ric Edelman plan to develop the parcel next to the Edelman Fossil Park at Rowan University in anticipation of widespread interest in an archeological site in which visitors can dig for their own artifacts and keep them. We feel because it is adjacent to the fossil park that it is a very important the property be redeveloped in a manner that supports the goal that we have for the fossil park, Ric Edelman said Tuesday. So it made perfect sense to Jean and me that we obtain control over the property so that we can guide its development. However, what they will put on the property is undetermined. It could be an infotainment center, a hotel, a restaurant or school," he said. "Were going to take our time and make sure we get it right. The right answer will surface. Mantua sold the property to the Edelmans last month for $655,000. The couple had already donated $25 million to the university for the development of the fossil park and a museum and visitors center on the site. The fossil park is on the site of a former industrial sand pit. Archeologists have already turned up a fossil of the largest prehistoric crocodile ever found and researchers, led by Kenneth Lacovara, dean of Rowan Universitys School of Earth & Environment and founding director of the Edelman Fossil Park, expect to turn up more important finds. Thanks to the foresight and generosity of Jean and Ric Edelman, we are building a world-class tourism and educational destination that will transform the region and do great good. Lacovara said. Paleontologist Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, Director of the Edelman Fossil Park, explains the plan for the use of the $25 million gift from alumni Jean and Ric Edelman to preserve and expand the fossil park in Mantua, A university official said New Jersey was once underwater on prehistoric Earth and the fossils on site are buried in sand as opposed to being encased in rock like archeological finds in other parts of the country. Its one of the things that makes the fossil park unique, he said. Visitors to the site will have a chance to dig in areas of lesser significance, but still lined with fossils of prehistoric finds. But they must also sign a wavier allowing the university to claim any finds of historical significance, said Joe Cardona, a Rowan vice president and spokesman. South Jersey is within a days drive of nearly a third of the population of the country, Cardona said. He said they are already having a hard time keeping up with scheduling all of the grade schools interested in field trips. Edelman owns a Virginia-based financial planning firm he bills as the largest in the nation. He said he and his wife want to spark interest in science education. Sometimes you have to go outside your comfort zone to make an impact in the area that needs the assistance, Edelman said about taking on the role of a real estate developer for this project. The museum and visitors center are expected to be developed first on the university-owned site. Student field trips and community digs sponsored by local government are already ongoing. Edelman said there is no timetable for development on the new parcel purchased last month. Local officials are also optimistic. We have been a part of this special project since its infancy and we look forward to what the future, Mantua Mayor Pete Scirrotto said. Bill Duhart may be reached at bduhart@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@bduhart. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Ask Alexa for New Jersey news Filmmakers converged on Newark to stage a riot. Debris covered the street overturned chairs, soggy newspapers, dismembered mannequins and clothes from ransacked storefronts. On Tuesday afternoon, extras waited for their turn in the spotlight, including black actors wearing button-down shirts, slacks and summer dresses, and white actors dressed as Newark police officers and National Guardsmen. Patrol cars were stationed throughout the scene. At the abrupt pop of a gunshot that evening, actors scattered in all directions. Two men moved a TV down the street. Another man wearing a fedora carried a box for a General Electric automatic skillet. The scenes are part of The Many Saints of Newark, the Sopranos prequel film set in 1967, the year of the Newark riots. Do you know what happened here? a woman asked, surveying the crowd and assorted contents of the street, which included wigs, shirts, lampshades and metal garbage cans. When a reporter mentioned the movie, her look of distress evaporated. Oh," she said. "I got really scared. The stretch of Branford Place between Washington and Broad streets became the scene of the real-life historical event in the New Line Cinema film, written by Sopranos creator David Chase and series collaborator Lawrence Konner. Alan Taylor, who directed episodes of the show, is directing the movie. The Many Saints of Newark" stars Michael Gandolfini, 19. Hes the son of the late actor James Gandolfini, who earned great acclaim for playing Tony Soprano in the HBO series that ended with an infamous cut to black in 2007. The younger Gandolfini, who bears a clear resemblance to his father, plays a young Tony alongside with Alessandro Nivola, who plays Dickie Moltisanti, father to series character Christopher Moltisanti (whose last name translates to many saints in Italian). Other actors in the cast include Hamilton star Leslie Odom Jr., New Jersey natives Ray Liotta and Vera Farmiga, Italian actress Michela De Rossi, Jon Bernthal (The Punisher), Jon Magaro (Chases Not Fade Away), Billy Magnussen (Aladdin) and Corey Stoll (First Man). Its unlikely that Michael Gandolfini will appear in any of the scenes from 1967, given the fact that according to the original series, Tony Soprano would have been 7 years old during the riots. The actor has been photographed wearing bell bottom jeans while filming scenes for the movie in New York. Background actors wait for the next scene.Amy Kuperinsky | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com The complete transformation of Branford Place meant installing new storefronts and signs. Filmmakers stood high above the street in a cherry picker. Most of the action took place on Branford near Halsey Street and Hobbys Delicatessen, one storefront that did not have to be altered, thanks to the restaurants retro neon sign. Nicole Guarducci, who works as a substance abuse counselor on Branford Place, watched the scenes unfold from her office. She said the production informed locals that filming could run through May 17. We were told that theyre going to be doing a lot of night filming, said Guarducci, 34, of Verona. She walked her two dogs, Yorkie mixes Oliver and Sebastian, as a truck rolled by to hose down the street for the riot scenes, misting everyone in its path. Guarducci wasnt a big Sopranos fan, but that could change. I think its really cool, she said of the film set. Thisll make me watch it. For many spectators, it was the first time they had heard of a Sopranos movie. Greg Wynn, who noticed the commotion when he went to his sons school down the street, watched from one of several barriers set up around the perimeter of the filming area. That was my show, he said of The Sopranos," smiling. It was always a hit. Newark's Adams Theatre staged a comeback for the movie.Amy Kuperinsky | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com This is good for the city, said Wynn, 52. Keep it here ... I might come down and get me a part-time job," he said, watching the extras dressed in 60s attire. This is nice. On April 25, at least 3,000 people gathered on Halsey Street to audition to be extras in the film. Second-unit window breakers, head back, we need you over there! said a man with a megaphone. Storefronts and signs created for the movie include Demuro Fine Shoes, Honest Hanks pawn shop, Blue Rose Cocktail Lounge, Bartek appliance repair and Lens Cafe. The windows of another store, Carmichael Mens Formal Attire, were splashed with soul brother" in white paint. Newarks old Adams Theatre 3 outstanding pictures!!" Air conditioned was resurrected at 28 Branford Place. The Dirty Dozen, starring Lee Marvin, Ernest Borgnine and Charles Bronson, is featured on the marquee. The movie premiered in the summer of 1967. The Newark riots, which resulted in the death of 26 people, spanned several days, from July 12 to July 17. Extras carried appliances down the street.Amy Kuperinsky | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com On set, the past mingled with the present, as throwback stores stood just down the street from a real record store on Halsey Street called Memories of Soul, specializing in music from the 60s and 70s. Current-day police officers crossed paths with their 60s counterparts on set. Some wore blue helmets. This is unbelievable, said Jules Carty, looking on from a barrier on Washington Street. He pointed out other businesses that have come and gone on Branford Place. Carty was just 4 years old in 1967. I cant believe that they made it look so great," he said, studying the set design. Carty, who considers himself a Sopranos fan, was happy to learn Tony Soprano would be revisited. I wouldve never thought that they would have come all the way back to his childhood years, he said. Anthony Perdue, 23, a teacher at Newark Collegiate Academy who lives nearby, was confused when he saw the street, washed clean in some places by the water-spraying truck. I was like, this street never looks like this, he said. This street is (usually) a mess. Store windows bore the words "soul brother."Amy Kuperinsky | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com I didnt even know about it, he said of the movie. "Now Im excited. The filming was slated to continue into the night and through Wednesday. Its not a residential (area), so theyre able to film here longer, said Kenneth Gifford, director of the Newark Office of Film and Television. Gifford has praised the restoration of New Jerseys film tax credit program and Mayor Ras Barakas push for more TV and films in Newark. In April, the forthcoming HBO limited series The Plot Against America" took Newarks Commerce Street back to the 1940s for an adaptation of the Philip Roth novel. The man with the megaphone returned. All right, thats lunch, everybody! he said. It was almost 8 p.m. Its gonna start raining in about seven minutes, folks! he added. As if on cue, a downpour arrived to drench the set. The Many Saints of Newark" is due out in theaters on Sept. 25, 2020. Have a tip? Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AmyKup or on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Surfing my DNA is a one-woman show about family, show business and identity. It is autobiography told through performance with an air of exploratory wonder. Writer and performer Jodi Longs efforts to share the story of herself and her parents feels often less like a story thats already been written than a continuing journey through the actress unique and winding history. The show is not particularly challenging or inventive, but the story is personal and warm, and occasionally moving. With the accompaniment of multi-instrumentalist Yukio Tsuji at the New Jersey Repertory Company in Long Branch, Long performs this two-act narrative directly to the audience, welcoming us into her personal and family history. The child of a Japanese-American mother and Chinese-Australian father, Long relates growing up on the Vaudeville circuit as her parents toured a song-and-dance lounge act they developed in New York City clubs. Her mother had spent time in a Japanese internment camp during World War II, and her father stumbled into show business as a young man. The unique outlet and synergy of performance give the couple life, and this spirit transfers to their daughter, Jodi. Surfing My DNA bounces around through time and location as Long seems curious to uncover the particular cocktail of genetic and cultural influences that made her the successful and versatile performer that she is. A veteran of film, television, Broadway, and many major regional theaters, Long has traveled a long show-business journey from tap dancing as part of professional shows childrens ensembles. The show tells us this story while also wondering how it came to be that a woman with such a particular background could marshal those experiences into a life dedicated to performance. Longs story is unique and interesting, but the shows best moments are when she relates the more harrowing and surprising tales of her parents. Theirs are stories that each of them needed to write through improvisation and adjustment to a variety of forces intent on keeping them down. Long speaks about her parents and their lives throughout with a sense of charmed esteem. The story here has some nice moments, but the play is a pretty conservative and traditional one-foot-in-front-of-the-other solo performance. The musical underscoring adds some texture, as do a few other stylistic elements, while Long and director Eric Rosen craft a performance in the familiar mold of stylized confessional. As Long narrates a few discoveries that surprised her as she dove into her personal history, as well as a few revelations that forced her to change her thinking about important influences in her life, the play itself follows a form and structure without a great deal of surprise or uniqueness. It is, peculiarly, a fairly pat production of a unique and compelling story. SURFING MY DNA New Jersey Repertory Company 179 Broadway, Long Branch Tickets available online (https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/cal/93), running through May 26. Patrick Maley may be reached at patrickjmaley@gmail.com. Find him on Twitter and Instagram @PatrickJMaley. Find NJ.com/Entertainment on Facebook. The recent Legionnaires disease outbreak at a senior citizen building in Newark is separate and completely independent from the citys troubles with its drinking water, Mayor Ras Baraka said Tuesday adding that the city continues to investigate the source of the bacteria that sickened three individuals. It is not given to people through drinking water, not given to people through taking baths. Those are two separate and completely different issues, Baraka said of the disease during a press conference regarding the citys effort to remediate elevated lead levels in the drinking water. Legionnaires would not be a problem as it relates to the water source, it would be a problem that occurred in a specific building once it gets into the water system in that building, Baraka added. Legionnaires disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, commonly found in water or soil. People are infected when they inhale water droplets coming from reheated water that causes the bacteria to multiply. One Newark resident was infected in December and two others fell ill last month. All three live at 2 Nevada Street. City officials previously said they were testing the buildings water system Monday to find the cause but said it wasnt clear if they were all infected inside the apartment complex. Results from the tests are expected back in three weeks. Erik Olson, a drinking water expert with the Natural Resources Defense Council, which is suing Newark over its handling of elevated lead levels in the water, said poorly operated water distribution systems can introduce the bacteria into buildings. Weve seen in other cases that a poorly maintained distributed system can be linked to Legionella being found in the (distribution) system, he said. Often what we see is that tap water introduces Legionella into the buildings and the buildings have to have internal plumbing maintained to keep the Legionella from multiplying. Flint, Michigan, which grappled with lead and other metals in its drinking water when officials switched the citys source water, also had a Legionnaires outbreak that eventually claimed the lives of 12 people. Scientists eventually linked the outbreak to low levels of chlorine in the municipal water system, according to media reports. Baraka said there was no evidence Newarks outbreak was related to low chlorine levels. Newark, however, recorded two turbidity violations in November and December last year. Though not a serious violation, too much turbidity in the water can slow down the disinfection process and allow more bacteria through. Olson said turbidity can interfere with the effectiveness of chlorine. That combined with crud build-up in an aging pipe infrastructure could be allowing Legionella to multiply, he added. Jerry Notte, the licensed operator for the Pequannock water treatment plant, said the citys turbidity violations have been remediated and the system is back in compliance. He added that treatment facilities also have to meet certain chlorine contact time requirements that mandate a certain amount of chlorine for a specific amount of time to properly disinfect the water. Chlorine quickly kills Legionella bacteria, he emphasized, adding that Newark has recently been in compliance with required chlorine contact time. Though federal and state standards mandate monitoring for different kinds of bacteria and pathogens, Legionella is not one of them, said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Catherine McCabe. McCabe said she was not aware of outbreak in Newark but would look into the potential cause. Read more of NJ.coms coverage of New Jersey water issues here. Staff reporter Michael Sol Warren contributed to this report. Karen Yi may be reached at kyi@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @karen_yi or on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A South Jersey man faces at least 16 years in prison after pleading guilty last week in the shooting death of a Paulsboro resident and to participating in a drug distribution scheme. Darnell L. Samuels, 36, admitted that on Fathers Day 2016 he gunned down Paulsboro dad Jonathan Gardner. Gardner, 24, the father of two sons, was shot multiple times on June 19, 2016, following an argument outside his home, police said. Samuels, who was living in Paulsboro, surrendered to police more than a week later after he was identified as the culprit and charged with murder and weapons offenses. While his bail was originally set at $1 million, it was slashed to $35,000 in February 2017 and Samuels was released days later. Gardners family expressed disbelief at the move and the Gloucester County Prosecutors Office called Samuels a danger to the community and a flight risk. The following year, Samuels was among 21 people charged in connection with a drug operation that brought illegal narcotics into New Jersey. Samuels, who was living in Delaware at the time, was accused of selling the cocaine that the alleged drug ring leader purchased for distribution. Samuels was receiving cocaine from Texas in kilogram amounts, prosecutors said at the time. Charges from the killing and the drug case were merged under the plea agreement. Samuels pleaded guilty Friday to first-degree charges of aggravated manslaughter and possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, as well as a third-degree charge of violation of probation. Prosecutors have recommended a 15-year sentence for the manslaughter charge, with the requirement that he serve at least 85 percent of that time before he is eligible for parole. They also recommend he serve at least 3 1/3 years of a 10-year sentence for the drug charge that would run consecutively to the 15-year term, and three years for the violation of probation, which would be served concurrently with the other terms. That means Samuels could serve from 16 to 25 years behind bars, depending on his conduct in prison. Samuels also waived the right to appeal his sentence and is subject to five years of parole supervision when he is released. A Superior Court judge will have the final say on how much time Samuels receives when he is sentenced on June 21. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us: nj.com/tips. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A well-known Jersey City community activist was charged with driving while intoxicated Tuesday night and threatened to have her friend the police chief discipline the officer arresting her, authorities said. A police officer pulled over Pamela Johnson, 45, of Princeton Avenue, at Union Street and Arlington Avenue at about 9:45 p.m. because she was allegedly speeding, law enforcement sources said. According to a police report, the officer had Johnson, the director of the Jersey City Anti-Violence Coalition Movement, get out of her vehicle and detected the odor of alcohol on her breath and said her speech was slurred. Johnson began using her cellphone and refused to stop when the officer told her she could not, the report says. The officer said that throughout the incident, Johnson stated multiple times that she was a community activist and a friend of Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and Jersey City Police Chief Michael Kelly, the report states. Johnson said she would call Kelly and have the officer disciplined and that she would never forget the officer and would come after him, along with his superiors, including South District Commander Capt. Peter Veltre, the report says. The police report states the officer took Johnson to the ground because when he tried to take her into custody she resisted by forcefully pulling away and pushing the officers hands off her. Johnson declined to comment on the charges. A spokeswoman for the Jersey City Police Department said Johnson was charged with resisting arrest and making threats or other improper influence both criminal offenses. The police spokeswoman said Johnson who was a member of the police departments Public Safety Citizen Advisory Review Board in 2017 was also cited for motor vehicle violations including driving while intoxicated, refusing to take a breathalyzer test and driving while suspended. According to the criminal complaint, Johnson knowingly threatened or attempted to influence an official by threatening harm to the arresting officer with the purpose of influencing the officers decision. In 2016, the Jersey City City Council named Johnson a Woman of Action. Johnson has been one of the most vocal anti-violence advocates in Jersey City and she works closely with the families of the victims of violence. She has organized anti violence marches and numerous other events. She founded the Jersey City Anti-Violence Coalition Movement in 2014 in the aftermath of the murder of Jersey City Police Det. Melvin Santiago. Since then, she has become one of the loudest and most prominent community voices in Jersey City, especially in the wake of high-profile violence. (Ending) violence is a cause everyone should be a part of," Johnson told The Jersey Journal in 2016. In 2017, she ran for the Ward A council seat and finished third out of four candidates. She said her organization's long-term goal is to "create safer streets" so "people can live their best life." I see it being a column in the community that is kind of like the center to holding things together. The next time Bair Chimittsyrenov loses his sunglasses, he may want to cross off police car glove compartment from the list of places to look. The 25-year-old Jersey City man is facing burglary and theft charges after he was caught inside a marked Hoboken police cruiser at 5:51 p.m. Tuesday, Hoboken Lt. Edgardo Cruz said. Sgt. Nicholas Burke parked and locked the car in the area of Fifth and Grand streets and left it for a short period of time, Cruz said. When he returned, Burke found a man sitting in the driver side seat leaning over toward the passenger side. Although the vehicle was locked, there was a small crack in the window for ventilation and Chimittsyrenov must have squeezed his hand inside to open it, Cruz said. Looking closer, Burke saw Chimittsyrenov rummaging through the glove compartment, Cruz said. Chimittsyrenov tried to explain to Burke that he was looking for his sunglasses, but he given a summons and released, Cruz said. Land historically used for maritime purposes NY Waterway is not bullying Hoboken In his opinion piece published May 3, 2019, Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla uses the word bully to describe NY Waterway which wants to move into their property at the old Union Dry Dock site which they purchased in November, 2017. They have been paying taxes on their property but have not yet been able to utilize their land and renovate it for their ferry refueling and maintenance operation because the City of Hoboken is preventing them from doing so. Mr. Bhalla does not own the land. Hoboken does not own the land. No one living in Hoboken owns that land. Since the mid 1800s this particular piece of land and water has been privately used for maritime purposes. Hoboken is situated on a river and waterfronts accommodate the necessary tasks that cities on or near rivers require, such as maintenance of boats and barges or docking vessels that move people across the Hudson River. In the past 300 years there have been 100 ferry routes along the Hudson. When my father lived in Hoboken, there was the Hoboken Ferry which had operated for 145 years until 1967 when it closed, being the last steam ferry boat that crossed the Hudson. In 1927, a peak year of ferry transportation, 27 million passengers crossed between New Jersey and Manhattan. When the tunnels and bridges were built to allow trans-Hudson automobile and bus access, ferry use declined and their owners were put out of business. The original Weehawken ferry stopped running in 1959 after 259 years of service. In this country, we have the right to start our own businesses if we so desire and have the financial means to do so. That is what is called private industry and if we are fortunate enough to make money from an enterprise we create, that is not a crime to be discouraged by our government. Some private industries actually help society. When Arthur Imperatore, Sr. started up New York Waterway in 1986, he made money, lost money, and then made money, but in the process also created another mass transit option for the millions of people that now crowd into our waterfront cities in the New York area. The ferries were back and just in time because the urban city populations were increasing with massive gentrification and the other mass transit option, rail lines, were aging and now require more frequent repair of their switches, cars, rails, and tunnels. New Jersey Transit relies upon NY Waterway to assist in providing the transportation required by the hundreds of thousands of commuters, and the ferries also help to keep thousands of cars off the roads that would otherwise add to the fantastic traffic and pollution problems caused by traffic moving into, through, and out of Manhattan. The word bully can mean to harm, oppress, tyrannize, torment, browbeat, intimidate, or persecute. This word cannot be truthfully used to describe NY Waterways relationship with Hoboken or its citizens. All they did was buy some land in Hoboken in order to provide needed transportation services to trans-Hudson commuters. By preventing NY Waterway from legitimately functioning, it is Hobokens Mayor who is acting as the bully. Mary Ondrejka, Hoboken Airbnb regulations must be done in fair way For the past three years, I have been an Airbnb Superhost, welcoming travelers from around the world to my familys home in Jersey City. Why do we share our home? The answer is simple: Because we love it. We started using Airbnb because my wife and I enjoy traveling with our children. Having lived in many places and relied on the warmth of others who have gone out of their way to help us on our journey, we decided to do that for those visiting our community in historic downtown Jersey City. Since we began hosting weve shared so much with our guests, including a space at our family table for Thanksgiving dinner. Along with the joy hosting has given us, its also been a financial boost, as the cost of living in Jersey City has risen. Theres no doubt in my mind that this bill that the City Council is considering would take this all away from me, and many more hosts like me. Between the high registration fees and annual inspections, it would seriously affect the income I am able to earn -- and with it, my ability to stay in my home and continue to care for my family. I understand the need for regulations, but we must do this in a fair way, one that doesnt unnecessarily hurt hosts like myself who arent bothering anyone. Home sharing has benefited me and so many others in Jersey City -- the Mayor and City Council should work with the whole community to create a reasonable framework that still embraces entrepreneurship. Patrick Lumbres, Jersey City Submit letters to the editor and guest columns at jjletters@jjournal.com A truck driver was charged with causing the fiery chain-reaction crash that killed a New Jersey couple driving to their wedding in Pennsylvania, authorities said Wednesday. Jaspreet Singh Chahal faces charges including homicide by vehicle, recklessly endangering another person and reckless driving in the Nov. 14 wreck on Interstate 78 in Windsor Township, Pennsylvania, according to police. Kathryn Schurtz, 35, and her fiance, Joseph Kearney, 42, of Jersey City, died in the multi-vehicle crash. Chahal was talking on a cell phone while driving a tractor-trailer, leading to the crash, Pennsylvania State Police alleged in court documents. He failed to stop for traffic ahead before his truck slammed into the engaged couples car, knocking it into another big rig. In arrest documents, State Trooper Travis Rutt wrote Chahals sister called 9-1-1 to report she was talking on the phone with her brother as he drove on Interstate 78 when she heard a commotion and the call was disconnected. Documents said police obtained a search warrant for Chahals cell phone records to confirm the call. In this case, we certainly believe [Chahal] never braked before impacting the vehicles ahead of him which makes...the facts of this case extremely egregious," Berks County District Attorney John T. Adams told the Reading Eagle newspaper. The deadly crash occurred about half-way through the couples drive to Pittsburgh, where they planned to tie the knot. Pennsylvania State Police said an arrest warrant was issued for Chahal, 24, of Frenso, California, who remained at-large. Schurtz was born in Elizabeth and grew up in Fanwood, where her mother served as a councilwoman. Known as Kate to friends, Schurtz attended Union Catholic High School in Scotch Plains, George Washington University and earned a master of business administration from Notre Dame. She was remembered on the Fanwood Facebook page as a woman with a love of cooking, reading and experiencing new adventures with Kearney. Our hearts go out to former Fanwood Councilwoman Karen Schurtz who lost her daughter and future son-in-law in a car... Posted by Fanwood, NJ on Saturday, November 17, 2018 Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters Union City resident makes a difference with Paper Orchestra program Melina Garcia of Union City is the winner of the $25,000 award at the 23rd Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award ceremony. the ceremony was held at Ramapo College on May 3 and recognized unsung heroes from throughout New Jersey for their compassion and concern for others. The top honoree received a cash prize of $50,000 and two second place honorees receive $25,000 each. There were also seven seven awards with a $7,500 cash prize. Garcia learned that 21 percent of the population of Union City, mostly immigrants, lived below the poverty line. With a vision to have orchestral music become a vehicle for social change, she partnered with the Union City Board of Education to launch the Union City Music Project, an after-school program with 50 city pre-school children, in 2012. Teaching beginners with paper mache violins in the Paper orchestra program, UCMPs bilingual, classically trained teaching artists instruct older children to play real strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion instruments. Each year, more than 100 three-to-18-year-olds from Union City, North Bergen, Jersey City, Weehawken and West New York participate. Garcia has been at the helm of this grassroots non-profit since its inception, focused on accomplishing her vision: inspiring academic excellence, enhancing life skills and building community through music education. SDA student wins second in poetry for creative writing contest A poem written by Saint Dominic Academy junior Valentyna Simon of Jersey City was selected for second place in poetry in the Fairleigh Dickinson University First Annual Creative Writing Contest for New Jersey high school students. The title of the winning poem, The Devils Chord, will be included on a special page in the Universitys The Literary Review. As an award recipient, Simon was invited to participate in a workshop conducted by award-winning authors who teach in the Universitys program. After the workshop, awardees, parents and teachers were to be be honored at a special dinner in Lenfell Hall at the FDU Florham Campus. Simon is an honor student, and a member of National Honor Society, an officer of Student Ambassadors, and a leading member of the Academys Award winning Glee Club and Dominoes. Jersey City celebrates appointment of Deputy Tax Assessor Laura Tacuri has been appointed as the new Deputy Tax Assessor for Jersey City by the City Council. Tacuri is a long-time municipal employee who started her career as a clerk with Jersey City in 2003. Tacuri holds a Masters Degree from New Jersey City University in Business Finance and in 2012 was recognized as Hudson Countys First Naturalized Jersey City Municipal Employee to become a State Certified Tax Assessor. Tacuri was born in Cuenca, Ecuador. She is the youngest of five children born to Luis Enrique Tacuri and Maria Juana Velesaca. In 1988, her father immigrated to the United States and in 1996 petitioned for Laura. She immigrated to the United States in 1998 and graduated from James Ferris High School in 2002. Fundraiser will support African Cultural Arts Festival A fundraising kickoff to support the 2019 African Cultural Arts Family Festival will take place Thursday, May 16, from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Factory Restaurant and Lounge, 451 Communipaw Ave., Jersey City. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For tickets and additional information, call 551-998-7116, 201-915-9600, or 201-878-0063. Make checks payable to: Friends of the Community Awareness Series, Mail to PO Box 3806 - Jersey City, NJ, 07303. The 6th Annual African Cultural Arts Family Festival is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 22, from noon to 7 p.m. at Berry Lane Park, 1000 Garfield Ave. Kennedy Dancers announce summer camp details The Kennedy Dancers have announced that their Summer Dance Day Camp is from July 8 to August 16, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students will learn ballet, tap, hip hop, jazz, gymnastics, lyrical, belly dance yoga, swimming, theater, and more. Students will be provided free breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Dance classes are separated by age: 5 to 8 years, and 9 to 12 years. In addition to dance classes, students will spend recreational time in the pool at Public School #6 and doing yoga and sketching in the park. Students can sign up for two weeks ($450), four weeks ($850), or six weeks ($1300). Early bird discounts are also available. Register before June 1 and receive: $50 off two weeks, $80 off four weeks, or $100 off six weeks. Teen Summer Intensive Camp, which is free, is from July 22 to August 2, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Students will learn ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, gymnastics, and tumbling. Students will be provided free breakfast and lunch. This is a Scholarship program and all applicants must audition. Lunch is provided by the Department of Agriculture (e.g. sandwiches: all-beef or chicken, no pork, seafood, or peanut butter), fresh fruit, milk, and juices. For more information, contact Kennedy Dancers at 201-659-2190 or kennedydancers@aol.com. Initiative gives non-profits chance to share their work On May 17, starting at midnight, the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce will launch their first-ever #HudsonGives, an online giving day just for Hudson County non-profits to celebrate and showcase their work. The initiative is being supported by the Jersey City Theater Center (JCTC). #HudsonGives will provide JCTC an opportunity to raise awareness of how these groups make an impact in the community and provide a platform to tell creative stories and reach new, potential donors. It will also help JCTC raise funds to bring arts and culture to new audiences, and to help vulnerable neighbors get access to JCTC events and programming. Donations will support the new JCTC project: Stories of Greenville, which enables the Greenville community to gain access to and benefit from theater, music, visual arts and other JCTC programming. The goal of the campaign is to help reach $10,000 and 100 donors. To support this initiative, go to the JCTC #HudsonGives site: hudsongives.org/organizations/jersey-city-theater-center. To learn more about JCTC, visit jctcenter.org. Meadowlands cheer program takes 1st place at Disney World The Meadowlands Starz Cheer Program competed in the 2019 AmeriCheer InterNationals in Walt Disney World on March 16 and 17. The Senior Level 4 Performance Rec Team captured the 1st Place Division Title as InterNational Champions. In addition, this team also took home the Grand International Champions Title for the overall category for all of Performance Recreation having the highest score of all the recreation categories. Meadowlands Starz holds multiple National and State Champion titles in addition to 1st place and Grand Champion wins. Meadowlands Starz athletes come from North Arlington, Kearny, Lyndhurst, Elmwood Park. Evaluations/tryouts for the 2020 Season are May 28, and 30. See the website for additional details at meadowlandstarzcheer.com. Students inducted into honor societies Brittany Angrosina of Bayonne was among the 39 University of Scranton students inducted into Phi Epsilon Kappa, the national honor society in physical education. Angrosina is a senior majoring in exercise science at the Jesuit University. The following local residents were recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nations oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. Karen Kwaasi of Jersey City was initiated at Kean University, Suly Merida and Michael Osei of Jersey City were initiated at The College of New Jersey. The following local students have been inducted into the LIM College chapter of the Delta Mu Delta International Honor Society in Business: Manahil Ali of Jersey City and Luciano Franco DiGiorgio of Secaucus. Jersey City resident accepted into West Point The Hudson County Board of Freeholders has recognized that Jersey City resident Weeshamar Edith Senatus, who will graduate from Hudson Catholic High School this spring, has been admitted to the United States Military Academy West Point Preparatory School. Senatus is a graduate of the Golden Door Charter School in Jersey City and is involved in a variety of extracurricular activities that round out her academic strengths. Bayonne youths receive Catholic War Veterans Youth Service Awards State Commander Michael Embrich has announced that the Catholic War Veterans Youth Service Award was presented to Bayonne students Anthony Rubino and Natalie Ramos. The award recognizes students who display a commitment to their studies and public service. Anthony Rubino is a Junior at Bayonne High School where he has been serving in the Bayonne Police Explorer Program since 2015 and has accumulated over 200 hours of community service. In July of 2018, Anthony was promoted to Sargent, and he acts as a leader and mentor to other Police Explorers. He received first place in Marksmanship, second place in Arrest & Search Techniques, and placed in Motor Vehicle Stops, Burglary in Progress, and Motor Vehicle Investigation. Natalie Ramos is an eighth-grade student at Nicholas Oresko School in the Gifted and Talented Program where she invented a device that stops chemicals and trash from entering waterways. Natalie volunteers her time at the Liberty Science Center, the Bayonne Soup Kitchen, and her CCD Program. She also served as a mentor in The 100 Book Challenge, which encourages good reading habits among children in the school district. She has also been a Girl Scout for 6 years, where shes earned over 90 Junior Ranger Badges from the National Park Service, National History Parks, and National Battlefields. In her spare time, she plays the violin and mentors students who are learning the instrument. She is also on the swim team. Kearny brings awareness during Lupus Month Kearny Mayor Alberto Santos was to present a Lupus Awareness Proclamation at the Mayors and Councils meeting May 7. Kearny Town-Hall will be lit up in purple in recognition of Lupus Awareness Month. On May 10, World Lupus Day, Franklin school will have a purple dress-down day. A Lupus Awareness Assembly will be held at Franklin School on May 31. The Franklin School nurses create a Lupus mural each year to inform students and teachers about this chronic disease. Bayonne teacher nominated for award Dr. John Bransfield, a teacher at Bayonne High School, was nominated for the Hannah E. (Liz) MacGregor Teacher of the Year History Teacher Award. The MacGregor Teacher of the Year award is sponsored by James F. Harris in honor of his sister and is awarded to one middle and one high school teacher annually. Each of the 57 National History Day affiliates may nominate one middle and high school teacher each for this award. Dr. Bransfield is the senior division nominee from New Jersey. The two $5,000 awards are presented to teachers who demonstrate a commitment to engaging students in historical learning through innovative use of primary sources, implementation of active learning strategies to foster historical thinking skills, and participation in the National History Day Contest. The two national winners will be announced on National History Day on June 13. The two national winners will be chosen by a team of teachers and historians. Nominees work must illustrate the development and use of creative teaching methods that interest students in history and help them make discoveries about the past. Hoboken achieves LEED Gold certification Hoboken was honored by the U.S. Green Buildings Council (USGBC) for achieving LEED Gold certification for its commitment to sustainability. Hoboken is the first city in New Jersey, and one of approximately 90 cities across the U.S. to achieve the certification. Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla, former Mayor Dawn Zimmer, and city staff were presented with official certification from USGBCs President and CEO Mahesh Ramanujam at City Hall. The LEED Gold certification for Hoboken was achieved using USGBCs Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Cities rating system. LEED for Cities enables Hoboken to measure and track sustainability metrics in energy and water use, waste generation, transportation, and community development including education, health, prosperity, safety, and equitability. Bhalla also announced Hobokens Climate Action Plan, which commits the city to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The Climate Action Plan includes plans for the purchasing of renewable energy for city facilities and homeowners, electric vehicle charging stations, a community solar program, hybrid and electric vehicles for the citys municipal fleet, and more. Police happened upon a deadly shooting in progress and arrested a fleeing suspect Tuesday evening in Trenton, officials said. Trenton police Street Crimes Unit Detectives John Carrigg and Stephen Szbanz were responding to an unrelated call when they came across the shooting around 6 p.m. at Stuyvesant and Hoffman Avenues, according to authorities. Police caught the suspect after a brief foot chase and recovered a weapon, said city police Detective Lt. Peter Szpakowski. The shooting victim, a 30-year-old man, died at the scene, according to Mercer County Prosecutors Office spokeswoman Casey DeBlasio. The name of the slain man was not immediately released before family could be informed. Officials said more information would be released later. The countys Homicide Task Force and city police were investigating. Noah Cohen may be reached at ncohen@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @noahyc. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters Princeton University has found and fined at least one vandal responsible for marring the Ivy League campus recently. But to students, the reported disciplinary action appears to put appearances before the interests of sexual assault survivors. The University is taking damages to its property far more seriously than it took the sexual assault suffered by this survivor and many others," a GoFundMe campaign launched by student group SHARE Peers for Reform + Speakout to raise money for the fine stated. "With this action, the University is suppressing the voices of survivors speaking out against the injustices of the Princeton Title IX system. According to the fundraiser, the student responsible was fined $2,722.58 and given 50 hours of community service and four years of probation. The graffiti in question criticized Title IX, a federal civil rights law intended to foster equality of the sexes at education institutions in receipt of federal funding. The campaign has exceeded its goal, raising more than $4,000. A university spokesman would not comment on the disciplinary action directly, citing policy. He did issue the following statement: "The University takes seriously its mission to support the free expression of all views, and we absolutely support and defend the right of students to participate in peaceful protest activities. Let us be clear: Students are not disciplined for participating in peaceful protests or speech students are subject to discipline if they deface and damage University property." The statement said penalties for such actions can generally include suspension, probation, campus service and restitution in the amount of damage to campus property. There were two incidents of graffiti on the Ivy Leagues campus in about a month. The first included phrases, "Title IX protest rapists and f--- Title IX, while the second, which occurred last week, targeted at least six spots on campus. In the second incident, spray paint reading divest from private prisons and Title IX protects rapists" appeared near the John Witherspoon statue, the library, and several academic and dining halls. Other messages reportedly read: birthplace of Pton colonization society, FStone wanted Liberia for rubber and dead black workers, W/Carnegie millions $ for the Wilhelm Kaiser, and Stolen land. Now what? An investigation into the graffiti is ongoing, the university said. On Tuesday, students held protests centered on the Title IX process, and sent a letter to administrators outlining their concerns. The administration has reviewed the document, according to a statement, and noted it supports students rights to engage in peaceful protests on campus. Sexual misconduct can have devastating effects on the health and well-being of members of our community--it has no place on our campus, the statement said. Consistent with our ongoing practice of taking student input into account, we are referring the concerns raised to the appropriate University committees. That said, unfounded calls for the termination of University employees are inappropriate and will not be considered further. Amanda Hoover can be reached at ahoover@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @amandahoovernj. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A 41-year-old Monmouth County jail officer has been charged criminally after authorities caught him engaging in sexual activities with an inmate, the Monmouth County Prosecutors Office said Wednesday. Thomas J. Mauro, 41, of Beachwood, who works at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI), in Freehold Township, was seen meeting up with a female inmate in a jail bathroom, prosecutors allege. An investigation led prosecutors to believe that Mauro met the 31-year-old woman from Neptune City while she was previously incarcerated at MCCI years ago. In 2013, when she was not an inmate, they began a sexual relationship, which then ended later that year. But, prosecutors allege, the woman is again incarcerated at MCCI and the two were seen entering and exiting a jail bathroom on April 27. Mauro has been charged with second-degree official misconduct and fourth-degree criminal sexual contact. New Jersey employer records shows Mauro has been a public employee for 13 years and makes $106,000 annually. The conduct, as alleged, is an exploitative abuse of an officers sworn authority and will not be tolerated, Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni said. We will continue to hold every law enforcement officer to the highest standards with no distinction between their roles in the system. Mauro was scheduled to appear in court for a hearing Wednesday afternoon. Paige Gross may be reached at pgross@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @By_paigegross. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip?Tell us. nj.com/tips. The woman charged Tuesday with drowning a 10-week-old Golden Retriever in a weighted cage in a West Milford pond told police that the dog was already dead before she put it in the water, according to court records. However, autopsy results by the New Jersey State Polices forensic lab showed that the dog died of asphyxia due to immersion in water, officials said. Tonya Fea, 47, of Jefferson Township, was charged with two counts of animal cruelty and defiant trespass, the Passaic County Prosecutors Office announced Tuesday. A rescue officer with The Last Resort, a non-profit, found the caged dog on April 30 on the side of the road near Greenwood Pond and called the West Milford Police. The puppy was dead and ice cold, soaked inside the crate, lakebed vegetation hanging on the crate, with a crystal vase (notice price tag), The Last Resort wrote in a Facebook post. The puppy also had pads stuck to the side of her head with a small amount of blood on them. The dog was sent to a veterinarian at Greenwood Lake Animal Hospital who examined the dog and found that it was not microchipped and that there were no signs of trauma or broken bones before sending the puppys remains to the state forensic lab. The Last Resort, which named the dog Jenny, said on Facebook that it was offering a $12,000 reward for any information that led to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for the crime. The West Milford Police and Passaic County Prosecutors Office were also flooded with tips and two anonymous ones that were sent to West Milford Police Det. Eric Darnsteadt on May 2 named Tonya Fea as a possible suspect, court records said. West Milford Police Det. Michael Malfetti contacted the West Milford Animal Hospital and was told that Fea was a long-time client and that she had made an appointment with a vet to see the puppy on the same day it was drowned but did not show up or call to cancel, police said. Police then met with Fea on her driveway and she initially denied having a puppy and making an appointment with the animal hospital, records show. After being confronted with the facts, Tonya admitted to submerging the Golden Retriever puppy in the crate with the glass bowl in Greenwood Pond although she stated the dog was deceased at the time, the affidavit of probable cause states. Fea was arrested on Tuesday after police got the autopsy results showing that it died from drowning. Fea was charged via summons-complaint and was released pending the resolution of the case and was scheduled to appear at Central Judicial Processing Court on May 22, prosecutors said. Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @chrisrsheldon Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Any time an immigrant here illegally is accused of a horrific crime, the Trump administration turns around and blames New Jersey. It just happened again, after the rape and strangling of a woman in Jersey City -- even though the feds couldnt point to a single thing our state did wrong in that case. The suspect was in the country illegally after having been deported twice. How that is New Jerseys fault is anyones guess. It all comes back to the fallacy that New Jersey is a sanctuary for criminals, as if they are somehow immune from the rule of law. Thats 100 percent nonsense. And Phil Murphys Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, who crafted our policy on cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is fed up. Hes even been getting death threats over this. After a steady barrage of public attacks from ICE, he gave us a remarkably convincing rebuttal this week at a Star-Ledger editorial board meeting. First, Grewal spelled it out explicitly: New Jersey is no sanctuary for criminals. It never will be. You break the law, you go to jail, regardless of your immigration status. But to jail the bad guys, we have to catch them first. And the police cant do that if victims and witnesses who might be here illegally are afraid to report crimes, he said. They feel that if they go to a police station, they might end up in a deportation center. Because of that, they refuse to go testify at trial. Because of that, their domestic abuser might go free. And because of that, a gang member might not get prosecuted, he said. If were truly serious about prosecuting MS-13, we want their victims to come forward. By creating a climate of fear in which they cant, ICE is providing its own sanctuary to MS-13. The gang doesnt prey on just anybody. Its victims are mostly fellow immigrants, many of them living in the shadows. Grewal asks, Dont we want them to come forward? That is why his Immigrant Trust directive says local cops should not ask about immigration status. This is the job of ICE. What gets dubbed a sanctuary policy is, in fact, a strategy endorsed by our urban police chiefs, because it helps them solve crimes. Once the bad guys are in custody, New Jersey stands ready to help ICE deport them, Grewal says -- as long as ICE does its job and gets a court order. Courts have ruled it unconstitutional for jails to hold inmates after they have completed their criminal sentences, so this is necessary to authorize the added time in detention, if ICE cant get there right away. The problem is that soon has often turned into 48 hours, its often turned into 72 hours, its often turned into longer periods of time, Grewal says. Were not going to honor detainers for weeks. In the most serious cases, well honor detainers a number of hours, till the end of the day. And if ICE doesnt pick them up, its on ICE. Right. As when ICE never responded to a notification from Middlesex County about a Mexican national held on domestic violence charges. After sitting in jail for 51 more days, Middlesex had to finally release him, since ICE had failed to get the needed judicial order. He later killed three people, and ICE pointed the finger at New Jersey to cover its own screw-up. Grewal wonders why ICE, which has the resources to do massive sweeps and arrest grandpas, cant be bothered to get a court order to pick up a criminal. And why, instead of calling out ICE, the blowhards are ranting at him: Im somehow giving a pass to criminals, and I should be shot and deported. Besides being disingenuous, he says, ICE is whipping up this fervor that feeds into a completely false narrative one that is vilifying immigrants, when immigrants dont commit crimes at higher rates than native-born populations. The statistics back him up on this. And heres the bottom line: We have done nothing but made plain what our role is, that folks can trust us to report crimes, and come forward and know that their cases will be prosecuted, and were not here to harass them, Grewal said. And thats good for public safety. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and find NJ.com Opinion on Facebook. Gov. Phil Murphy has already faced pushback on his new proposal to offer $250 million more in property tax relief to New Jerseys middle-class residents next year if state lawmakers pass his plan to increase taxes on millionaires. A powerful lawmaker dismissed it this week as a gimmick. But Murphy on Wednesday refused to back down and stressed that the increase in property tax relief can be funded only if the millionaires tax is put in place. I dont think its a gimmick to ask 19,000 people who can afford to pay it to fund property tax relief for millions in the middle class, the Democratic governor told reporters after an unrelated event in Newark. Thats good policy. Thats good math. A millionaires tax can not only do what I presented in early March," Murphy said in reference to his second state budget proposal, "but it now can do an incremental $250 million of property tax relief direct to the middle class. Im incredibly proud of that, and were staying with it. Murphy revealed Monday night that an unexpected surge in tax collections will allow the state to pour the additional money into property tax relief in a state with the nations highest property taxes but only if top lawmakers drop their opposition to the millionaires tax. In short: Murphy is anticipating $447 million million from the millionaires tax to balance his $38.6 billion state budget proposal. Now, he says there will be a surprise $250 million next year from tax collections, and because his budget plan is already balanced, hell put that extra money toward property tax relief. But if the millionaires tax isnt passed, the budget is no longer balanced and would be short $447 million. Thus, that $250 million would need to replace some of that money, and the governor would need to find another $197 million elsewhere. Murphy says the $250 million in property tax relief would go to the states Homestead and Senior Freeze credits. Pumping that money into those programs would benefit 784,000 middle-class households. The millionaires tax would affect about 20,000 New Jersey residents and another 19,000 non residents. Murphys property tax proposal aims to force the hand of his fellow Democrats who control the state Legislature and so far have been opposed to the millionaires tax especially in a year when all 80 seats on the state Assembly are up for grabs in Novembers elections. Less than 24 hours after Murphy revealed the proposal, state Senate President Stephen Sweeney swiftly rejected it as a gimmick and stood by his staunch opposition to a millionaires tax. Taxpayers are smarter than that, Sweeney, D-Gloucester, told NJ Advance Media on Tuesday. "Its time to fix things and stop the gimmicks. Sweeney instead is pushing his own plan to cut pension and health benefits for government workers, institute new toll roads, consolidate school districts, and more. Murphy and lawmakers have less than two months to come to an agreement on the budget. The Legislature has to pass it and Murphy has to sign it by July 1, according to the states constitution. If not, Murphy could shut down the state government until an agreement is reached. Brent Johnson may be reached at bjohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @johnsb01. Samantha Marcus may be reached at smarcus@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter@samanthamarcus. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. Perhaps for fear of leaving taxpayers holding the bag, no New Jersey municipality or county has taken Gov. Phil Murphy up on his plan to circumvent the $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions enacted by President Donald Trump, Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver said this week. The Republican tax overhaul set off efforts by high-tax blue states to create workarounds, such as allowing local local governments to establish charitable funds to accept donations not property taxes. But theres doubt these schemes are legally viable. The law Murphy signed May 4, 2018, allows local governments to create charitable funds into which taxpayers can make donations in lieu of paying property taxes the conventional way. Charitable contributions arent subject to the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap. While the Internal Revenue Service proposed rules last summer that would bar these types of strategies, it has not made a formal pronouncement. Attorney General Gurbir Grewal said last year hell take the IRS to court over any effort to block the charitable deduction workaround. But, Oliver, who also serves as commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs, said local government leaders have been reluctant to take the risk. When I think about towns and mayors and the things theyre confronted with, there probably is a little trepidation on their parts to move forward and establish something on a municipal level that if the federal government intervenes, and if it goes through an appellate process and theyre deemed illegal, theyre concerned about their homeowners in their towns or the residents in their towns left holding the bag," Oliver said. State lawmakers told Oliver they were surprised none had signed up. I can appreciate why somebody doesnt want to be the first, but its a little surprising to me taxpayers havent tried their best to encourage someone somewhere among the group so we can see whether its going to fly or not, said Assemblyman John McKeon, D-Essex. I think were all a little bit surprised, added Assembly Budget Committee Chairwoman Eliana Pintor Marin, D-Essex. There was a big kind of chaotic moment for all of us, and when we put forth legislation we were really thinking that some of the municipalities might find it useful. Likewise, the New Jersey Schools Boards Association is not aware that any district has established a charitable fund, spokeswoman Janet Bamford said. The average New Jerseyan paid $8,767 in property taxes last year the highest of any state. A spokeswoman for Murphy, Alyana Alfaro, said the governor still believes that charitable deductions are a viable solution, and the administration is committed to working with municipalities to address concerns while the legality of the Trump administrations limit on the SALT deduction is tested in court. Samantha Marcus may be reached at smarcus@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter@samanthamarcus. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. George Norcross III, the South Jersey Democratic power broker long at odds with the governor, has declared all-out war on Gov. Phil Murphy, calling him a liar and politically incompetent. After enduring a steady drumbeat of criticism over how his company and other entities tied to him allegedly benefitted from lucrative tax incentives meant to help revive the city of Camden, Norcross went on the attack against the Democratic governor. He lambasted a special governors task force deployed to investigate the New Jersey Economic Development Authority in connection with those tax incentives, as well as the governor. At issue are millions of dollars in state funding that was earmarked for one of the states poorest cities, and questions over whether Norcross and his companies profited, or at least tipped the scales to funnel that funding behind the scenes by threatening to move jobs out of state that were never in danger of being shifted. Norcross defended the tax incentives and the efforts to bring more money to Camden, the epicenter of his vast statewide influence. Do I think there is anything wrong with them going and advocating for, trying to affect or to offer legislation for the benefit of themselves and their client? Absolutely nothing inappropriate as long as they comply with the law. Nothing. Zero, Norcross said, in a wide-ranging phone interview with NJ Advance Media that lasted nearly an hour and a half. We busted our asses to do everything we could to get companies to come to Americans most dangerous city and its poorest city. What the hell is wrong with that, as long as you comply with the law? At the same time, Norcross claimed he had been clearly targeted by Murphy as part of an escalating political feud between the states North and South. This was a designed strategy, declared Norcross, a potent force in politics for decades with a reach far beyond the South. The administration wanted to strike back at South Jersey, me, (state Senate President) Steve Sweeney (and) other Democrats in South Jersey. At the same time, he said the governor had no clear strategy going forward. Whats the end game for this guy? Norcross asked. Well, Im telling you: He thinks hes the King of England and Mrs. thinks shes the Queen of England, and they dont have to answer to anybody. And theyve gone out there recklessly, stupidly and incompetently time and time again. Norcrosss reference to the governors wife was a not-so-subtle jab at First Lady Tammy Murphy, who some political observers have privately referred to as the co-governor because of her powerful role in the Murphys administration. The governors office did not respond directly to Norcross, but defended the task force investigation of the EDA. The independent task force was formed in the wake of a scathing audit from the state comptroller that questioned the programs administration and whether the state and its taxpayers were getting promised jobs and economic development. It is not political in nature and should remain free from partisan or political interference. From inception, its mission has been protecting taxpayer money and ensuring that every dollar is accounted for and that the States incentive programs are free from self-dealing or corruption. The task force will continue its work and will not be affected by attempts to intimidate or derail it, said spokesman Darryl Isherwood in a statement. A SMEAR CAMPAIGN? Norcross gave a full-throated defense of his companies as well as the EDA itself, and angrily derided the governors task force investigating New Jerseys tax incentive programs as a McCarthy-like commission seeking only to smear people. He also criticized the commission for not permitting those in its sights to defend themselves. His comments marked his first public response to disclosures made at a EDA Task Force hearing last week in Newark that focused almost exclusively on how tens of millions of dollars in tax incentives had been awarded to companies and a non-profit associated with Norcross in Camden, where is chairman of Conner Strong & Buckelew, an insurance brokerage, and chairman of Cooper Health System. Two other companies, NFI Industries and The Michaels Organization, have partnered with Conner Strong, an insurance brokerage, to build a new headquarters they will share in Camden with the help of the state tax incentives. Attorneys for the task force also spelled out how Kevin Sheehan, an attorney at Parker McCay, the law firm run by Norcross brother, Philip, played a major role in re-writing the draft legislation that would become New Jerseys amended tax incentive law benefitting a number of that firms clients. His response also came on the heels of reports last week by WNYC and ProPublica, and the New York Times, which separately reported on how EDA incentives helped Norcross projects in Camden and other clients of Parker McKay. The Times reported that as a result of the 2013 legislation, George Norcrosss insurance firm received approval for an $86.2 million tax credit to relocate to an 18-story office tower in Camden. WNYC and ProPublica reported that of the $1.6 billion in tax breaks for companies that agreed to make a capital investment in Camden, at least $1.1 billion went to Burinesses or charities connected to Norcross or people in his orbit. Norcross, in the interview Wednesday, said many interests were seeking to affect changes in the legislation. Why is it that we were the only companies picked out of hundreds? Its because this was a carefully designed plan to attack, smear and destroy a good number of people, he said. Norcross added that the U.S. Attorneys office in 2016 investigated the awarded of state tax credits to Conner Strong & Buckelew, and ultimately did not take any action in the case. The inquiry was headed by assistant U.S. attorney Lee Cortes Jr., one of the prosecutors in the Bridgegate corruption scandal. In a September 2018 letter to Michael Critchley, who is representing Norcross, the office said that based on a review of the applicable law and evidence obtained during the investigation, we have concluded that no further action is warranted. Accordingly, this matter has been closed. The federal investigation, though, would not have focused on any alleged violations of state law. New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal said he is conducting a state investigation into the EDA tax incentive programs. In an interview earlier this week with a Star-Ledger editorial board, Grewal said while his office typically does not comment on investigations, their interest was sparked by the state comptrollers office report into the EDA. Were going to use whatever civil tools and criminal tools we have to hold people accountable, Grewal said. A CRITICAL REPORT The EDA Task Force was formed by Murphy earlier this year came after a highly critical audit by the state comptroller in January, which found fault with the EDAs management of a program that has given out tax credit incentives worth $11 billion since its inception. The comptroller concluded that the state agency, which is responsible for spearheading New Jerseys economic development efforts, may have improperly awarded, miscalculated, overstate and overpaid tax credits to a number of companies that it could not verify had created the jobs that were promised. It also said the EDA could not evaluate whether its inventive programs generated any economic benefits to the state, and had certified projects and released tax credits even when projects did not meet the requirements, in violation of the law. The major incentive programs the Grow New Jersey Assistance Program and the Economic Redevelopment and Growth Grant Program are set to expire in July unless renewed by the Legislature. Ronald Chen, the chairman of the commission, said the task force has already identified nine companies of concern. Chen added more than three dozen companies have agreed to participate in an accelerated program to re-certify their incentive awards. A STATE OF WAR Should a political war between Norcross and Murphy spiral out of control, it would reach far beyond Trenton, where the South Jersey boss and his ally, state Senate President Stephen Sweeney, D-Gloucester, have enough political power to derail major parts of Murphys agenda. The governor wants recreational marijuana and to bump the tax rate on people who earn more than $1 million a year. He campaigned on both issues. But he needs the Legislatures support to get them enacted. Sweeney, along with state Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, D-Middlesex, are publicly opposed to the millionaires tax. If both sides dig in and refuse to move, the state could be staring down the barrel of a government shutdown beginning July 1 when a budget needs to be passed and signed. The chances of getting recreational pot, meanwhile, already looked dim before the public spat. Currently, its prospects look increasingly grim as it lacks enough votes in Sweeneys Senate. Norcross said the rift between the governor and himself go back to the days of candidate Murphy, when Norcross argued members of his political team tried to oust Sweeney out of his powerful leadership position in the state Senate. Murphys team has denied the claim they tried to launch a coup against Sweeney. Whats undeniable, however, is the states largest teachers union, the NJEA, spent millions in 2017 to boost Sweeneys opponent in his re-election bid. The effort failed and Sweeney kept his position as state Senate president. Norcross insisted Murphy and his aides were behind both efforts. Its very difficult to understand the mind that has no end game, Norcross said. A mind that has no strategic plan in what theyre trying to do and a mind that politically would be so incompetent as to think that they could dislodge Steve Sweeney as the president of the Senate. It seemed like a suicide mission. And if youre going to go after the king, you kill the king. He charged that Murphys political team had decided that they were going to show the president of the Senate and the new speaker who was boss and who was the most powerful governor in the country. Their strategy going into the new governorship was going to be were not going to have legislative leaders deciding policy here. The governor is going to call the shots, Norcross said. Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL. Facebook: @TedSherman.reporter. Matt Arco may be reached at marco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MatthewArco or Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. I was relieved to read that Gov. Phil Murphy has backed off his plan to raid the needy firefighters relief fund for the general state budget. Taking $33 million from the states firefighters was ill advised, to say the least. The initial logic was that this fund had money to spare. This was the same approach first used to raid the states pension fund because it was fully funded at the time. We all know how that worked out. I read the state comptrollers report about the fund, based on a complaint from Bergen County. The comptroller makes some sound points: The law needs to be updated. The comptroller mentions that three other states have expanded the concept beyond using relief funds to take care of widows and orphans. This is the job of the legislature not the governor. Here is why I wrote this letter: I was a career law enforcement officer and also a volunteer firefighter. My son followed me into the fire service. I was very proud of him for giving his time to his community. I did not think much of the relief fund until Feb. 2, 2017. On that fateful day, my son Kevin was killed going to work. He was not on a service call, but that did not matter. The entire fire company rallied around us and his funeral was with full honors. A day or two later a knock on the door revealed a fireman with the relief paperwork, which paid for most of Lieutenant Kevin Hogans funeral. I assume that Murphy does not know about the fire service. The same grit and fellowship that allows firefighters to get out of bed to help people they do not know is why the relief fund exists, and why governors or insensitive staff should think before dipping into a fund that is not supported by tax dollars. Jim Hogan, Franklinville Editors note: The writer is the Gloucester County clerk, a former county sheriff, and the former police chief in Franklin Township. Let Barr now uncover anti-Trump conspiracy It is obvious that the election of President Donald Trump was never popular with Democrats and some Republicans. His detractors have been unwilling to work with him, and obsessed on Trumps supposed collusion with Russian interference in the 2016 election. Special Counsel Robert Muellers report showed no conspiracy between Trump or his associates and the Russian government. All through the investigation, Trumps administration was very transparent in turning over requested documents. It was no surprise that the Democrats were shocked and angry at the results. Their foolishness in investing two years of their political power to try to prove Russian collusion left them empty handed and frustrated. The recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing with Attorney General William Barr was a reminder of the tumultuous hearings that Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh went through. Barr sat patiently through grueling questions and unfair accusations. Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, accused Barr of lying to Congress and demanded he resign. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi claimed that Barr committed a crime. The four-page letter he wrote to Congress about Muellers findings made them believe he was covering for Trump which is nonsense. Perhaps Hirono and Pelosi realize that Barr is acting like a real attorney general, and plans to get to how and why this investigation began in the first place. In my opinion, spying on the Trump campaign did take place. It is possible that many powerful heads will roll, going back to the Obama administration, if the truth is revealed. Barr seems to understand why his name is being trashed by those who think they are above the law. We have to stop using the criminal justice process as a political weapon, he said. I hope he is successful. Barbara Essington, Carneys Point Township Send a letter to the editor of South Jersey Times at sjletters@njadvancemedia.com Among the growing number of Latin restaurants in Trenton, Tikal Restaurant & Lounge stands out for its varied menu, full bar and impressive decor. We have a little bit of everything, said Alba Paz, who owns the restaurant with her husband Carlos Lopez. We have at least one dish from every Latin American country. The couple bought the former site of Rossis Bar and Grill in 2017 when Rossis moved to Hamilton. My husband wanted to have a business where family members can work, said Paz. He works in construction and gets credit for the buildings renovation, which includes beautifully crafted murals depicting Guatemalas heritage and flora, and colorful swirl-design floors. Credit for the food goes to the couples choice of chefs and their insistence that everything be made fresh when it is ordered. Their insistence on quality shines through in many of the dishes, starting with the impressive pupusas, $9 for an order of three. The pupusas come in three flavors and we chose one of each, loroco, frijol and queso. We liked them all. The corn flavor shone through, along with a light smokiness from the grill. Each had just the right amount of filling, and the texture managed to be dense but not heavy and moist but not soggy for an impressive dish. An order of cheese empanadas, $6 for three, was undoubtedly the best we have tasted. The queso cheese they use is excellent, and there is plenty of it. The pastry was remarkably light, crisp, and greaseless. Among the entrees we chose grilled shrimp, $15, which came with seven fresh, perfectly cooked shrimp coated in a mild dry rub, served over fluffy white rice. As with all the dishes, the entree was attractively plated with side servings of salads and pickles. An order of pollo guisado, $10, was a hefty bowl of stewed chicken and vegetables with the same side dishes as the shrimp. The flavor was good, but the chicken was disappointing with a stringy texture that may have come from overcooking. For dessert we tried the tres leches cake, $4, which was good but not impressive. Better was the pineapple milkshake, $4, which was light and frothy. A glass of sangria, $6, was nicely done with an above average red wine as its base and diced apples. We were seated upstairs, which is light and sunny with plenty of windows, and a table buzzer to summon our server, who was downstairs. When the check came we were surprised to find a 15 percent gratuity added onto the bill, something we had not seen before on a check for two people. Our helpful, friendly server deserved more than that as she had cheerfully come up and down the stairs at our repeated requests. For those who dont like Latin American food, the restaurant has a short menu of Italian dishes harkening back to the days when most of Trentons Chambersburg was Italian American. Whatever you choose, be assured it will be prepared with quality ingredients by chefs who know how to make great food. TIKAL RESTAURANT & LOUNGE The 18-year-old New Jersey man wanted on charges he shot and killed a 19-year-old last month on a Plainfield street has been caught in Pennsylvania and is awaiting extradition, authorities said Wednesday. Samir Crews, of North Plainfield, was arrested without incident by members of the Union County Homicide Task Force and U.S. Marshals Service on Tuesday morning in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, authorities said. He faces murder and weapons charges, acting Union County Prosecutor Jennifer Davenport and Plainfield Police Director Carl Riley said in a statement. Crews is accused of gunning down David Perez, of Plainfield, at 4:10 p.m. on April 28. Police found Perez with gunshot wounds in the area of West Fourth Street and Monroe Avenue and he was later pronounced dead at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. No motive has been disclosed in the killing. Police described Crews as the primary suspect in the case. Union County Crime Stoppers had offered a reward of up to $10,000 in the case and police are seeking tips that could lead to additional arrests. Anyone with information may call 908-654-(8477 or submit them online at www.uctip.org. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips Get the latest updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. A 36-year-old woman who died in the Orleans Justice Center jail on Sunday (May 25) while jail officials say she was detoxing from opioids and alcohol has been identified by the Orleans Parish Coroner's Office as Kentrell Hurst. Hurst's mother said her daughter had five children and "had been through a whole lot" in her life -- a life that ended when Hurst was found unresponsive in her jail cell, two days after court records indicate she was arrested for allegedly stealing $56 worth of items from a Franklin Avenue grocery store. Laverne Phillips said her daughter's struggles included drug addiction, bouts with homelessness, abusive relationships and surviving a 2016 violent attack. Jason Melancon, a spokesman for Dr. Dwight McKenna, the coroner, said on Tuesday the cause and manner of Hursts death were still under investigation. Her death marks the first in-custody death of 2018 for the Orleans Parish Sheriffs Office. Six people died in 2017 while in OPSOs custody or after being taken to a hospital from the jail. The agency continues to be closely scrutinized by federal monitors and lawyers representing inmate-plaintiffs in accordance with a 2013 consent decree aimed at improving conditions at the jail. Blake Arcuri, an attorney for the sheriff's office, issued a statement Monday morning about the death at the jail, saying the woman, now identified as Hurst, was found unresponsive in her cell about 9 p.m. the previous night. Staff "immediately notified EMS" and "began lifesaving procedures," Arcuri said, but to no avail. Arcuri said in the statement that Hurst indicated when she was booked into the jail on Friday that she had been using heroin and alcohol for years and had used the drug the day of her arrest. She was on "detoxification protocol" when she died, Arcuri said, but had refused her medicine dose a little more than two hours before she was found unresponsive. Emily Washington, an attorney with the Roderick and Solange MacArthur Center for Justice, called Hurst's death "avoidable" in a statement on Wednesday. Washington's firm represents incarcerated people at the jail whose lawsuit prompted the federal consent decree. "No one should die in the jail as a result of detox from alcohol or drugs. Providing appropriate care for persons in need of detox treatment is well-known, standard corrections practice. But once again the medical and security staff in the jail have shown indifference to the safety and health of people in their care," Washington said. "Kentrell was visibly sick. The severity of her condition was ignored." OPSO contracts with a private company, Correct Care Solutions, to provide medical services at the jail. Hurst's mother, Laverne Phillips, 69, of Leesville, said her daughter had been on drugs, including heroin, for years and was at times homeless, though she sometimes stayed at the homes of family members in New Orleans. Hurst's address was listed in municipal court documents as in the 1700 block of Marais Street, in the 7th Ward. Jerry Porter, a cousin of Hurst's, said she had been through "difficult times" and was "a better person" than her end-of-life circumstances conveyed. "She was just misunderstood," he said. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Court records show Hurst was in jail at the time of her death after facing three municipal charges: two counts of shoplifting and one count of misdemeanor battery. New Orleans police arrested her Friday, court records say, after she was allegedly caught shoplifting items from a Rouses grocery store in the 6600 block of Franklin Avenue, in the Lake Terrace neighborhood. Hurst also had an outstanding summons for battery and shoplifting stemming from a May 12 incident at 2222 St. Claude Avenue, which is the address of Robert Fresh Market grocery store. Hurst was held in jail over the weekend, Arcuri said, because she was required to appear in New Orleans Municipal Court on Monday (May 29) in connection to the battery charge. One of three siblings, Hurst grew up in New Orleans' 9th Ward and was a "good child," Phillips said. She attended Alfred Lawless High School in the Lower 9th, Phillips said, but became pregnant at 17 and did not finish high school. Phillips said she has raised Hurst's oldest child, now a 20-year-old woman, since the girl was young. Hurst's youngest child is a 7-year-old boy, Phillips said. Among the difficulties Hurst faced, her family said, was losing her father - who also struggled with drug addiction - when Hurst was 12; being displaced in Hurricane Katrina; enduring multiple abusive relationships and more recently surviving being raped. Hurst testified in recent weeks in a rape case, Phillips said. A law enforcement source with knowledge of the case in which Hurst testified confirmed she was the victim of a Nov. 30, 2016, attack by 27-year-old Seandell Kelly. Court records indicate Hurst testified April 24. The following day, a jury found Kelly guilty of second-degree kidnapping in the case but deadlocked on the first-degree rape charge. His attorneys on Wednesday filed a motion seeking a new trial on the rape charge. An April 26 news release from District Attorney Leon Cannizzaro's Office states the attack on the victim -- now identified as Hurst -- was captured on video. Kelly dragged the victim into an alley near the 2800 block of Florida Avenue, "where he beat her, threw her to the ground, bit her face and choked her unconscious before raping her," the release says. Ken Daley, a spokesman for Cannizzaro's office, said Wednesday prosecutors plan to retry Kelly on the rape charge. Despite her troubles, Phillips said, Hurst had "a good heart." She said the family often worried about her, and had recently debated getting her help at a drug rehab facility. The family is coping as best as they can with the difficult ending to her daughter's hard life, Phillips said. "I'm trying to get through it," she said. Hurst is the second person who has died in the New Orleans jail while on detox protocol in less than six months. Dennis Edwards, 41, died Dec. 15 in the jail's medical clinic while on detoxification protocol, the sheriff's office said then. Natalie Henderson, a nurse who was fired from her job at the jail in April, claims in a wrongful termination lawsuit that her supervisors at Correct Care Solutions ignored her complaints about the way Edwards' care was handled the morning he died. She said she asked a supervisor to send Edwards to the hospital, but her advice went unheeded. The coroner's office ruled Edwards died of natural causes from hypertensive cardiovascular disease, an autopsy report shows. It was not clear if the coroners office under McKenna, who was sworn in May 7, followed the same protocol in Hursts death his predecessor Dr. Jeffrey Rouse had established for in-custody deaths. Under Rouse, the coroners office agreed to hold off on an autopsy for about 24 hours to allow family members of the deceased to send a doctor to observe the procedure, if the family wanted to send someone. The protocol under Rouse also including inviting representatives from the FBI and sheriffs office to observe the autopsy, if those agencies chose to do so. Phillips said she was not contacted by OPSO or the coroners office after her daughter died and was not aware if anyone in her family had been contacted regarding an autopsy. The Jefferson Parish coroners office identified the man whose relative found him dead of gunshot wounds in his Kenner apartment Tuesday evening (May 7) as Keith Colly, 22. Gretna police link duo to N.O. East Waffle House shootout, other robberies Colly had been dead for more than 24 hours when his body was discovered, according to Mark Bone, chief death investigator for the coroners office. An autopsy determined Colly had been shot in the head. Kenner police have no motive or a suspect for the killing, said Lt. Michael Cunningham, spokesman for the department. A relative went to Collys apartment in the 3100 block of Phoenix Street in Kenner about 8 p.m. Thursday because worried family members hadnt heard from him in several days. The last contact with him was Saturday afternoon, Cunningham said. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The relative arrived to find Collys apartment door unlocked. When he walked inside, Colly was lying dead in the living room, according to authorities. Investigators said they believe he died about 24 to 48 hours before his body was discovered. Detectives suspect Colley knew his killer because there was no sign of forced entry at the apartment and he was shot from behind, Cunningham said. Collys was the second homicide on Phoenix Street over a five-day span. Remus Lambert, 30, of New Orleans, was gunned down May 3 as he sat in his vehicle in the 2600 block of Phoenix, south of Interstate 10, Kenner police said. Detectives obtained a warrant for the arrest of Lyndell Alford, 34, of Kenner, in connection with Lamberts death. Alford is dating the mother of Lamberts children, and the shooting occurred during a confrontation between the two men, according to authorities. The two homicides are not connected, Cunningham said. Anyone with information about shooting death of Keith Colly is asked to call Kenner Police at 504-712-2222. The public can also call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or toll-free at 1-877-903-7867. Callers to Crimestoppers do not have to give their names or testify and can earn a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an indictment. Former North Shore DA Walter Reed, who recently had surgery for prostate cancer, is asking for more time before he must report to federal prison to start serving a four-year sentence on corruption charges. Reeds attorney, Richard Simmons Jr., filed a motion Tuesday (May 7) asking U.S. District Court Judge Eldon Fallon to push Reeds reporting date back one month, from May 17 to June 17. The delay would allow Reeds condition to stabilize and give the Bureau of Prisons time to assess whether his current prison assignment can provide proper medical care. Reed underwent surgery for Stage 3 prostate cancer on April 17 and needs post-operative treatment, including radiation, the motion says. As an alternative to an outright delay, the motion asks that Reed be allowed to serve home incarceration for 30 days, starting May 17, before reporting to prison, with the understanding that the home incarceration would not automatically be credited as time served toward his sentence. The U.S. Attorneys Office, which did not oppose Reeds previous requests for delays on medical grounds, asked the court Thursday (May 9) to deny his latest request. Reed should begin serving his debt to society now, prosecutors said in a filing to the court. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Reed, the former longtime district attorney for St. Tammany and Washington parishes, was convicted on corruption charges in 2016. After Reed lost his appeal to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals, Fallon ordered him to report to prison April 1 but later gave him an extension to April 15 to have medical tests done. When the cancer diagnosis was revealed, Fallon postponed Reeds date with prison to May 17. Reed has told NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune that he has been assigned to a camp at the Federal Correctional Institution at Morgantown, West Virginia. (This story was updated on May 9, 2019, to include the U.S. Attorneys Office opposition to Reeds request.) Former DA Walter Reed has cancer, seeks delay in reporting to W. Va. prison A 22-year-old man was found dead with a gunshot wound to his head in a Kenner apartment Tuesday night (May 7), according to Kenner Police Department spokesman Lt. Michael Cunningham. Investigators have ruled out the possibility of the wound being self-inflicted, he said. Police are not sure when the shooting occurred, but relatives had not heard from the victim in at least a day. A family member found the victim around 8:30 p.m. while checking his apartment in the 3100 block of Phoenix Street. There appeared to be no forced entry into the victims home, Cunningham said. The apparent shooting death is the second reported on Phoenix Street within the past four days. A man, later identified as 30-year-old Remus Lambert, was shot to death in his vehicle Friday afternoon in the 2600 block of Phoenix Street. Lyndell Alford, 34, of Kenner is accused of second-degree murder in that killing. Cunningham said as of Tuesday night, investigators do not see ties between the two homicides on Phoenix Street. At this point we dont see any connection, but we havent ruled it out completely, he said. Laura McKnight covers crime and breaking news for NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. A pedestrian was found fatally injured early Saturday (May 4) after a car sideswiped him, leaving him lying in a New Orleans East roadway where he was then struck by a pickup, according to New Orleans police. Both vehicles fled the scene. Deputies responded to the deadly hit-and-run about 5:25 a.m. in the 12100 block of the North Interstate 10 Service Road. Investigators learned that the wounded man was walking in the road when he was sideswiped by a car, possibly a Nissan Altima, police said in a news release. The man was apparently not injured by the collision but fell into the roadway and became disoriented, according to the NOPD. While lying in the roadway, the man was struck by a pickup traveling westbound. The truck was described as a dark-colored Chevrolet with a Mississippi license plate. The driver, a man estimated to be 60 to 70 years old, got out of the truck and claimed to not be at fault before driving off, police said. The victim, found unresponsive, was taken to a local hospital, where he later died. Anyone with additional information on the hit-and-run crash, the two vehicles reportedly involved or their drivers is asked to call NOPD Traffic Fatality Investigator Edgar Edwards at 504-658-6208 or submit an anonymous tip to Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111 or 1-877-903-STOP. Laura McKnight covers crime and breaking news for NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune. The Cost of Choice is the result of a reporting collaboration between NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune, WVUE Fox 8 News, WWNO and Reveal from the Center for Investigative Reporting. The series is the first to grow out of Reveals Local Labs initiative, which works to establish lasting collaborations in communities across the United States. The Army Corps of Engineers is expected to announce at a 1 p.m. Thursday (May 9) press conference that it will reopen the Bonnet Carre Spillway to assure that water levels on the Mississippi River do not reach the 17-foot official flood stage in New Orleans. The river was at 16.6 feet at the Carrollton Gage in New Orleans on Wednesday morning and was forecast to rise to 16.9 feet, just under the official flood stage, by Monday. The press conference will cover flood fighting efforts already in progress along the Mississippi and Atchafalaya Rivers, and discuss the potential operation of Bonnet Carre Spillway, said a Wednesday corps news release. A hydrologist with the Lower Mississippi River Forecast Center confirmed that, while river forecasts are based on past rainfall plus expected additional rainfall over the next 48 hours, the forecast for New Orleans assumes that the corps will open enough of the spillways 350 bays to keep the river height below flood stage, which keeps the river forecast level from rising above 16.9 feet through June 3. While the official flood stage is 17 feet in New Orleans, levees and floodwalls protect the city to water heights of between 20 feet and 22 feet. The corps actually bases its decision on when to open the spillway to divert part of the Mississippi into Lake Pontchartrain on the amount of water flowing downstream, rather than the water height. The trigger usually is when the flow reaches 1.25 million cubic feet per second. Blame heavy rain in Arkansas for the expected jump in the river, said service coordination hydrologist Jeff Graschel. Between 3 and 5 inches of rain had fallen or will fall in that state over the next few days, with the water draining into the Arkansas River and then into the Mississippi. That water joins already high water levels traveling down the river due to earlier heavy rains in the Missouri, Ohio and upper Mississippi basins. In briefing slides distributed to state emergency managers Wednesday morning, the river forecast center said the Arkansas rainfall would likely raise lower Mississippi River crests 1 to 2 feet from Arkansas City, Ark, south to Donaldsonville, and that they would reach crest levels until the third week of May. The good news is that a 16-day experimental rainfall guidance program indicates no crests higher than listed in Wednesdays forecast. But that still means many locations will exceed existing records for consecutive days above flood stage. The river has been above 11 feet in New Orleans, considered bank full, since Dec. 12, and has been at 15 feet or above since Feb. 24. At 11 feet, the corps begins the first phase of its flood fighting program, which includes increases in inspections and some restrictions on work occurring on or near river levees. Environmental news in your inbox Stay up-to-date on the latest on Louisiana's coast and the environment. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Graschel said he expects the river to remain high at least through the end of June. This will mark the 14th time since it was built in the aftermath of the historic 1927 Mississippi River flood that the spillway would be opened, and the first time that it will be reopened a second time in the same calendar year. The spillway was first opened on Feb. 27, and its last bays were closed on April 11. Officials opened 206 of the spillways 350 bays, with the peak flow reaching 213,000 cubic feet per second of water diverted into Lake Pontchartrain. A crane atop the spillway will be used to lift long wooden pilings from each bay, with several bays opened each day until enough water flows towards the lake to keep the river below flood stage. The river has been above 11 feet in New Orleans, considered bank full, since Dec. 12, and has been at 15 feet or above since Feb. 24. At 11 feet, the corps begins the first phase of its flood fighting program, which includes increases in inspections and some restrictions on work occurring on or near river levees. Both National Weather Service and corps officials will also be monitoring the water height in New Orleans for its potential effects during hurricane season, which begins June 1. While most early tropical events occurring in the Gulf of Mexico dont reach hurricane force, a hurricane on some northward paths into the Louisiana coastline could cause storm surge to move upriver against the water now moving downriver, potentially increasing heights in New Orleans. High water like this likely will dampen surges coming up river from weaker storms, Graschel said. But as you get to stronger systems, it could get problematical. He added that high water levels actually are not that unusual during June and July. In 2015, the river reached an annual high water level of 15.5 feet on July 27 at the Carrollton Gage. But as Hurricane Isaac came ashore in 2012, the river jumped at the Carrollton Gage from 2.85 feet at 8 a.m. on Aug. 27 to 9.51 feet at 8 a.m. on Aug. 29, or a more than 6-foot rise. For Sabrina Schmidt, yoga is a way of life. For more than 20 years, the St. Bernard resident has learned, taught, shared and grown as a practitioner of this mental and spiritual discipline. Recently, she participated at a national convention in Dallas. There, she studied under Abhijata Iyengar, one of the foremost yoga teachers in the world and the granddaughter of famed yoga guru B.K.S. Iyengar, the founder of this style of modern yoga focused on physical stamina and flexibility. In order to participate in the prestigious program, Schmidt had to study and practice for several years and undergo a daunting set of tests. After many years of preparation, I went through the rigorous certification process to become an Iyengar teacher, Schmidt said. In October, Schmidt traveled to Delray Beach, Florida, to earn the credential. There, she joined a group of anxious practitioners from all over the country for a weekend of intensive testing. The tests were divided into written, demonstrative practice of over seventy poses and a 40 minute teaching portion, she recalled. For those who know me, being under the spotlight is not my happy place. But something changes when you push yourself beyond what you think you can do. Pushing yourself through a fear raises the threshold of that fear and sometimes the fear is overcome. Her trip was a success and soon she had something that she had worked so hard for she was a certified Iyengar yoga teacher. That accomplishment put her in some rarified air as the only CIYT in St. Bernard Parish and one of only a dozen in all of New Orleans. Schmidt said this practice has changed her life in so many positive ways that she feels compelled to pass it on. Iyengar yoga can be practiced in all stages of life, she said. Each class is a unique sequence to guide the practitioner towards a gradual, steady progression that bring about transformation. Through skilled instruction and practice, students learn to penetrate beyond the physical body to the inner layers of mind, energy and spirit, gaining vitality, clarity and calm through the practice. The benefits are far-reaching and will assist the practitioner in every aspect of daily living. As part of her mission to help others, Schmidt teaches throughout the metro area, including Mondays at Yoga Bywater, Wednesday evenings at Cafe Aquarius in Chalmette and on Saturday mornings in Arabi. Schmidt calls it an outlet to release stress and said that most illness, disease and pain are stress related. Yoga brings life to areas of the body that are stagnant, feels areas of the body that were never felt and is an awakening that penetrates to the core, Schmidt said. She said she first discovered its benefits years ago when she and her husband rented Iyengar yoga VHS tapes from the library. I dont think I got through three poses, she said. I remember the challenge was just to stand straight in a pose called tadasana. More importantly, I remember how my mind and body felt after the pose. From that moment I knew this practice was something to consider. She said at that time pain was a daily part of her life. Constant back pain from poor posture, and I lacked strength in the core, Schmidt said. My legs ached from poor circulation, I was restless at night with high anxiety and panic attacks. I suffered with allergies and sinus headaches and congestion all the time. She said her yoga practice became daily in late 2005 after being displaced from Hurricane Katrina. After having my own practice for a while, I decided to deepen my yoga studies through an 18 month teacher training program in Tennessee and became a registered yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance, Schmidt said. Since moving back to St. Bernard in 2010, Schmidt has been volunteering as a yoga teacher in Arabi, but in 2013, she found her way to Iyengar Yoga Studio. My mind and body never felt so connected, and it had positive effects on my entire nervous system, she said. Since that time, Schmidt has studied with and under some of the most respected Iyengar teachers in the area. She said yoga is not a quick fix, but it has healing properties. Yoga helps people move through pain in the body, she said. Its a remedy for back pain and therapeutic for joint pain. It also helps with sleep and relaxation, and can be therapeutic in times of illness. She said practicing yoga brings her clarity and strength, referring to it as her go-to medicine. It promotes relaxation, and I feel nourished by the increase circulation throughout the body, Schmidt said. It makes me feel connected to my center. She said she is grateful that yoga has had such a positive influence in her life. If I feel anxious, I reach for a specific pose, Schmidt said. If I feel tired, I reach for a pose. If my back hurts, I know what to do to remedy that. I hope to be able to pass that along to others, so they can feel connected and have less pain in their bodies. When she is not teaching or practicing yoga, Schmidt is an award winning artist and graphic designer. One of her recent paintings, Chief, was named Best of Show by the St. Bernard Art Guild. Schmidt is also an active member of the community, sharing her time and talent with such groups as the St. Bernard Chamber, the Old Arabi Neighborhood Association, and providing artwork for a number of local festivals. Her original design and logo Enjoy St.Bernard has become a ubiquitous presence throughout the parish and region. Schmidt said what she enjoys are some of the simple things. I just want to paint, practice and teach yoga, travel and enjoy all of life, she said. Her advice? Embrace everything that comes your way, Schmidt said. Really consider every opportunity, even the ones you automatically want to say no too. Its coming to you for a reason. Life is for moving. Do it now. If you are not in a good place, change it even if it means just getting up to go for a walk. Its never too late. As long as you are breathing, anything is possible. Barry Lemoine writes about people and events in St. Bernard Parish. To reach him, email barrylemoine@gmail.com. In the last six months Louisiana has played an increasingly key role in federal efforts to detain a growing number of undocumented immigrants. Since September, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has nearly doubled its detention capacity in Louisiana by contracting with four additional correctional facilities in remote corners of the state and adding more than 2,500 beds for detainees. This comes as Louisiana has experienced a steady decline in its prison population following a criminal justice overhaul in 2017 that reduced the states incarceration rate from a high of roughly 40,000 in 2012 to about 33,269 in 2018, according to state data. It seemed that Louisiana was ready to move away from its dependence on mass incarceration through its efforts at justice reinvestment, said Jamila Johnson, a senior supervising attorney with the Southern Poverty Law Center. Its disheartening to see that it continues to rely heavily on it through its switch to the mass incarceration of civil detainees. This year, ICE began using River Correctional Center (500 beds), Jackson Parish Correctional Center (1,000 beds) and Richwood Correctional Center (1,000 beds) to house detainees, said Bryan Cox, an ICE spokesman. Johnson said these efforts began in September after the agency contracted with Bossier Medium Security Facility in Bossier Parish to house up to 240 detainees. ICE expands detention capacity As ICE has seen its detention capacity stretched thin nationwide, the need for more beds has grown. In March, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol apprehended 103,492 people at the southwest border. Thats more than double the number from the year before and the highest rate in five years. The most recent surge has exceeded the agencys reserve capacity and demanded the execution of new and expanded contracts, Cox said in an email. ICE continues to look for opportunities to efficiently increase detention capacity in order to meet operational responsibilities. He added that ICE considers many factors when selecting locations for detention facilities, the foremost being their operational need for any given facility. Other factors the agency takes into account include proximity to ICE field offices, available infrastructure such as airports and ground transportation, as well as access to health care, legal services and federal immigration courts. In addition, detaining immigrants in Louisiana comes at half the cost for ICE. The average cost of ICE detention in Louisiana is approximately $65 per person per day at present, Cox said. The national adult average daily bed rate was $126.52 in FY 2019. A portion of that goes to the sheriffs department that operate the jails: The current amount the state pays sheriffs to house inmates ranges from $10.25 to $24.39, Mike Ranatza the executive director of the Louisiana Sheriffs Association told NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune last month. Housing detainees can be a significant source of cash for local authorities and municipalities. The Jackson Parish Sheriffs Office stands to make $64.07 per detainee per day, or up to $64,070 per day total, if ICE uses its full capacity of 1,000 beds at Jackson Parish Correctional Center, according to a contract signed in March. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The daily rate at LaSalle Detention Center in Jena is $75 for up to 416 detainees and $45 per day for 417 to 1,160 detainees. So, if the occupancy of the facility for a single day is 916 detainees, the LaSalle Economic Development District with the town of Jena nearby earns $53,700 daily, according to their contract with ICE. Legal, medical concerns grow The rapid expansion has raised concerns among immigration attorneys about medical conditions at the facilities and issues with legal access. Most of these facilities are located in rural and remote corners of the state, several hours away from major metropolitan areas. LaSalle Detention Center in Jena is about a five-hour drive from New Orleans and nearly four hours away from Baton Rouge. That facility has been used for immigration detention for more than 10 years and houses up to 1,160 people at a time. River Correctional Center, which started being used for ICE detention in January, is about a three-hour drive from New Orleans. When you open 2,500 new beds in the span of six months to a year there is no way for legal services to meet that demand, said Jeremy Jong, an attorney with the Southern Poverty Law Center. The legal organization opened a satellite office in Alexandria, Louisiana last fall in order to provide pro-bono legal representation to people detained in Pine Prairie ICE Processing Center, a facility with a capacity of 1,094 beds, and LaSalle Detention Center in Jena, about an hour away. The office has three staff attorneys and one legal coordinator. They can only cover a fraction of the population, and now you more than double the population. How can you possibly start to respond to that? Jong said. Access to appropriate medical care has also been a concern at these facilities in recent months. Mumps outbreaks have been reported at two ICE detention centers in Louisiana this year. At least 300 detainees who may have been exposed to the virus in late January and early February at Pine Prairie ICE Processing center near Alexandria had to be quarantined. ICE confirmed that 18 detainees had confirmed or probable mumps cases at that facility. Mumps quarantine raises concern about legal access at Louisiana immigration detention centers In order to reduce the risk of exposure, detainees with confirmed or probable cases were placed in groups separated from the rest of the population. Similar measures were also put in place at the River Correctional Center around the same time in January to contain a mumps outbreak. Two months later, at the end of March, ICE officials confirmed that 24 individuals in ICE custody had gone on hunger strike over limited legal access at River Correctional Center. A Slidell man died Tuesday (May 7) in Panama City Beach, Florida, after trying to help a friend who was struggling in the Gulf of Mexico, Fox 8 WVUE reported Wednesday. The body of Maurice Cousin, 53, was pulled out of the water along Front Beach Road. Police said he was trying to save a friend who became tired and disappeared under the water, according to the report. Cousin was taken to a medical facility where he died. WWL-TV reported that Cousin died after rescuing his fiancee'. He was able to lift her to safety before getting caught in the current himself, the station said. The couple was set to be married next year, and Cousin leaves behind a son and daughter, WWL reported. See the Fox 8 report. On a perfectly beautiful day in April the kind that makes you appreciate spring in Louisiana dozens of pastel enthusiasts gathered on the banks of the Abita River. Notebooks in hand, they watched as pastel artist Alan Flattmann magically transformed a charcoal sketch on gator foam board into a brightly illuminated scene of a fallen tree across the water body. The biggest challenge of plein air is the light is changing all the time, Flattmann said during the demo, which was part of the Degas Pastel Societys Paint Out. Three weeks later, 24 north and south shore artists showed their mastery of the painting method at the 2019 En Plein Air Exhibition, held April 26 to 28 at the Abita Springs Trailhead Museum. The first exhibition took place in 2008 in an effort to help restore the towns historic railroad depot, which was heavily damaged during Hurricane Katrina. The depot has since become the museum, which houses various exhibits and events during its weekend hours. There had been some plein air shows on the north shore but nothing north of I-12, and Abitas always been an artists colony. It seemed like a perfect way to get people to see and enjoy Abita and take advantage of the north shore, said Ron Blitch, president of Blitch Knevel Architects and the exhibitions organizer. A portion of the paintings sold during the event benefits the museum. This years exhibition included 75 paintings by Phil Sandusky, Al Champagne, JoAnn Adams, Ann Pappas, Ben Bensen III, Al Rufty, Ferris Hotard, Auseklis Ozols, Mary Monk, Judy Newman, Peg Usner, John Preble, Julia Rubin, Gus Hoffman, Ken Hopel, Diego Larguia, Carol Hallock, Louis Morales, Peggy Hesse, Claude Ellender, Glinda Schafer, Christina Goodman and Lyn Taylor. Exhibiting in the show is a tradition, said Phil Sandusky, whose painting of a house on Lakeshore Drive in Mandeville was selected for this years promotional materials. Abita Springs artist Mary Monk, who recently participated in the Shadows-on-the-Teche plein air exhibition in New Iberia, said this gives her a chance to paint my home. Its a celebration of local landscapes and a chance to meet my neighbors, she added at the exhibitions opening, which drew a crowd to the museum to see and buy the paintings on display. The plein air show features paintings of landscapes in St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes. They must be completed in the months from January to the shows start. Some pieces were so fresh signs warning of Wet Paint hung below them. There were depictions of boats and an abandoned truck, pieces that focused on florals, and scenes of landmarks like the Mandeville lakefront and the riverfront in Madisonville. Many shown light on wooded locales or marshlands and waterways. St. Tammany top stories in your inbox A weekly guide to the biggest news in St. Tammany. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Among the wall-hung paintings were four plastic cards former hotel room keys with landscapes painted in minute detail by Abita Springs artist Christina Goodman. All sold within the opening receptions first hour. Carol Hallock, a veteran exhibitor, chose to stick close to her home with her four pieces, all of which were painted on her Lacombe property or within a 5-minute drive. I decided to love what I had. You take it for granted, she said. En plein air is used to describe the act of landscape painting outdoors. The style gained popularity during Impressionist movement when the advent of paint tubes and packable easels allowed painters to move out of the studio. Plein air painting is different. Its what an artist is seeing in real time, Blitch said. The method is about leaving the four walls of your studio behind and experiencing painting and drawing in the landscape, according to the Web site, Artist Daily. The practice goes back for centuries, but was truly made into an art form by the French Impressionists. Their desire to paint light and its changing, ephemeral qualities, coupled with the creation of transportable paint tubes and the box easel the precursor to the plein air easels of today allowed artists the freedom to paint en plein air, which is the French expression for in the open air. New Orleans artist Diego Larguia who displayed pieces from Northlake Nature Center in Mandeville and a pond in Folsom said he prefers painting en plein air because it provides a richer source of information. That makes dealing with bugs and changing weather conditions worth it, he added. Hallock echoed Flattmann in stating that the challenge of painting en plein air is battling the light whether working in oil as she does or in pastel like members of the Degas Pastel Society. The arts group was founded after seven artists planned the first pastel-only exhibition in New Orleans in 1983 and is named in honor of Edgar Degas, the artist most widely recognized for transforming pastel from a sketching tool into a major artistic medium, according to the groups membership materials. It holds its annual Paint Out event as part of its offerings that include workshops and an annual membership meeting. It also organizes a National Juried Exhibition and Membership Exhibitions biennially. For more information on the Degas Pastel Society, visit www.degaspastelsociety.org. For more information on the Abita Springs Trailhead Museum, visit www.trailheadmuseum.org. Fundraising campaign for Covington sculptor Bill Binnings, who had $50,000 in small bronze sculptures robbed from his studio earlier this year. The fundraiser is an effort to raise $10,000 so Binnings can replace his tools, acquire more bronze, and have the ability to re-cast his lost sculptures to rebuild his inventory. https://www.gofundme.com/bill-binnings-fundraiser?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_dn_cpgnstaticsmall_r Sarah Bonnette is a freelance writer on Louisiana arts and culture. She may be contacted at sgbonnette@gmail.com. In 2021 the Louisiana Legislature will be redrawing legislative and congressional districts based on the results of the U.S. Census to be conducted in 2020. To ensure the integrity of this process, the League of Women Voters of Louisiana urges the Legislature to pass House Bill 504, the Reapportionment Transparency Act, this year. The purpose of redrawing district boundaries every 10 years, a process commonly referred to as redistricting, is to ensure that Congress and state legislatures are representative of their constituencies. However, past redistricting often has been distorted by manipulating boundaries to stack the deck in favor of a political party or incumbent candidates, in effect allowing legislatures and political parties to select their voters rather than allowing voters to freely select their representatives. To prevent such distortion, the League of Women Voters believes that redistricting at all levels of government must be accomplished in an open, unbiased manner with citizen participation and access at all levels and steps of the process. House Bill 504 seeks to ensure such openness by requiring measures to inform the public and gather public input. Redistricting is a complex process that is open to abuse if not conducted openly. The Reapportionment Transparency Act will help to ensure that Louisiana voters have confidence in the fairness of our elections and that their representatives recognize they are accountable to all of the voters in their districts. Hilda Walker Thomas President League of Women Voters of Louisiana Slidell Despite the claims made by former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal when he was pushing through a statewide voucher program, schools that parents love wont necessarily be those that best educate their children. Even schools that dont do particularly well academically have booster clubs, pep rallies, fight songs and traditions that inspire everybody involved to speak of them proudly. Just like fans shouted Who dat say dey gonna beat dem Saints?! even during those seasons when the answer was Everybody, there are people who are going to express pride in their schools no matter the quality of the education being provided. Teams are judged by their won-loss records and playoff success. Fan satisfaction doesnt matter. And before the creation of the Louisiana Scholarship Program, state officials said it didnt matter how families felt about public schools; test scores were the only way to distinguish the good ones from the bad. But when there were calls for private schools to prove themselves worthy of taking students from public schools, Jindal insisted that Parents are the best accountability system we have. Fortunately, lawmakers insisted those schools give voucher recipients the same tests public-school students take. Because they did, its been clear for years that parents arent the best judges of a schools educational quality. A year into the program, students in private schools were performing worse than their counterparts on standardized tests. And there was near unanimous satisfaction from parents who were surveyed about their familys voucher experience. Surveys still show high levels of parental satisfaction, but it is clear that the voucher program isnt working. The Louisiana Scholarship Program includes about 6,900 students and spends $40 million a year sending students to private schools that often do an even worse job helping them pass the states required tests. Two-thirds of all students in the voucher system attended schools where they performed at a D or F level last school year, according to a data analysis by NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune, WVUE Fox 8 News, WWNO and Reveal from The Center for Investigative Reporting. Most of the private schools whove accepted voucher students thats 86 of them dont have enough of those students enrolled to be assigned a score or letter grade. But it doesnt look good for the 37 schools that do. Among those 37, not a single school scored A or B. Three received a C. There were 19 D schools and 15 F schools, based on the Louisiana Department of Education rating system. In some cases, students have left C public schools to attend private schools with D and F rating. When reporters asked parents how they felt about their private schools low test scores, most said they didnt know the scores were so low. But, for some, it didnt matter. One parent said her daughter feels at home here. She cited the behavioral problems at her public school, problems, according to the mother, the girl hasnt had since enrolled in the private school. Again, its not a new thing to hear parents praise the schools that arent doing a good job academically. In February 2013, the Black Alliance for Educational Options, which stood by Jindal as he argued for vouchers, released the results of a survey the organization conducted indicating that 93 percent of parents expressed satisfaction with the school their child was able to attend with a voucher. That survey was released three short months after the Louisiana Department of Education released its report that showed that voucher students scored 30 points lower than the average on LEAP, the states high-stakes test. BAEO doesnt exist anymore, but in 2013, Eric Lewis, who was BAEOs Louisiana state director, said, "Parents have different reasons for why they're choosing schools. It could be safety issues. Particularly in New Orleans. It could be school location." Lewis reiterated that same point Monday. There are reasons other than academic ones that might prompt a family to express satisfaction with a school, he said, but he stressed that it was BAEOs expectation that students would be sent to high-performing schools. Today Lewis is the executive director of Apex Collegiate Academy, a Baton Rouge charter school he founded. Apex officials told families that because the school hasnt performed well Apex will be closing. Its likely the state would have yanked the schools charter next year if the school didnt voluntarily shut down, Lewis said. But even though the state labels Apex an F school, parents took the news of its closing very hard, Lewis said, because they think of the people at the school as family. Whether its traditional, charter or private, its not hard to understand why parents might love an F school. But the pro-voucher crowd promoted the program as a way to help students advance academically. And this program doesnt. At this point its a generation of kids, Lewis acknowledged. If somebody started in the program in kindergarten, they would be in 10th or 11th grade. We have to ensure that we are providing kids with better options, he said. Just transferring a child to another campus isnt itself an accomplishment. Lewis said when he started his charter school, he said, If were not doing better than public (traditional) schools, theres no point of our school existing. We should have that same attitude about the voucher program. If it isnt helping students advance, then shut it down. How is your childs voucher school performing? Many schools dont have letter grades because Louisiana only reports test scores for schools with at least 10 scholarship students per grade level. But most students in the program attend schools that did report. We calculated 2017-18 letter grades based on each schools SCI score, which the Louisiana Department of Education says is comparable to the scores used to calculate public school letter grades: As a scientist at LSU, Dr. Catherine O'Neal knew the COVID-19 vaccines had undergone rigorous safety testing before they were made available for children. But when the time came to sign her own kids up for the jab, the mother of three experienced Council Bluffs police identified the person killed following a chase involving three cars Monday night, and the Pottawattamie County Attorney has decided to turn the case over to a grand jury to determine whether or not charges should be filed. Ethan B. Edgar, 18, of Hutchinson, Kansas, died after being shot at the corner of South Main Street and Ninth Avenue, police said in a statement this afternoon. According to the police investigation, which is still ongoing, the owner of a stolen black 2009 Nissan 370Z along with several friends in multiple cars were actively searching for the car in Council Bluffs, as they had information that it was seen at different locations in the city throughout the day. The Nissan had been reported stolen to the Omaha Police Department just after 2 a.m. Monday. Edgar was reportedly behind the wheel of the stolen Nissan, which was parked on a the gas station lot at the corner of South Main Street and Ninth Avenue, when it was located by some of the car owners friends, police said. One of these cars, a blue Honda Civic, pulled directly in front of the Nissan, blocking its forward path, as the second car, a silver Toyota Camry pulled in directly behind the Nissan, blocking it from backing out of the area. Edgar, the lone occupant of the Nissan, put the car in reverse and accelerated, slamming the rearend of the Nissan into the front passenger side door of the Camry, police said. As Edgar then began to drive forward, Jonathan Echtinaw, 25, of Omaha, who was sitting in the front passenger seat of the Camry, allegedly fired multiple shots at the Nissan through his open car door window. The three cars proceeded to ram into each other several times, with Echtinaw in the Camry allegedly firing additional rounds at the Nissan, police said. A total of 12 spent 9mm shell casings were recovered at the scene. Edgar was able to drive the Nissan off the gas station lot, heading north on South Main Street, with the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry chasing after it. Edgar reportedly lost control of the Nissan at the intersection of South Main Street and Fifth Avenue, crashing into a tree. Paramedics transported Edgar to the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, where he died from his injuries. He had been struck by gunfire twice, once in the upper right back and another time on the right thigh, police said. The people inside the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry remained on the scene and were questioned by police. After reviewing all the known evidence with the Pottawattamie County Attorneys Office, it was decided that no one would be immediately arrested, police said. It is expected the county attorney will present the evidence to a grand jury to determine if the Echtinaw will face any criminal charges. Pottawattamie County Attorney Matt Wilber said his office is evaluating whether or not the incident falls under Iowas Stand Your Ground law. In basic terms, the law says a person doesnt have to retreat before using deadly force if they think their life is being threatened. When it comes to (Stand Your Ground), we dont say self-defense, we say justification, Wilber said. To charge, we have to prove a shooting was not justified beyond a reasonable doubt. He added that the entire incident was captured on multiple video sources, which will be shown to the grand jury. The what is not in dispute, he said. What needs to be decided is if the response was appropriate and within the law. NeighborWorks and Iowa Western Community College held an open house Monday to celebrate completion of the colleges second home in the Walnut Grove Subdivision, so named because it is being built on the former site of Walnut Grove Elementary School. Seventeen Iowa Western construction technology students finished the house at 2908 Ave. J a couple weeks ago, completing the programs 2019 Service Learning Project. That brings the number of homes completed in the Walnut Grove Subdivision to six, according to Dave Hazlewood, former chairman of the IWCC construction technology program and current chief operating officer at NeighborWorks Home Solutions, which is developing the subdivision. Atlas Builders has built four. Three have been sold, and a deal on a fourth is scheduled to close soon, he said. Construction of the home was a huge part of the students education, said Turiko Ferguson, who will graduate from Iowa Western Saturday. It was a real learning experience for myself and for everybody, he said. I can learn super-fast when I do hands-on. Instructor Rob Klepfer said he was very proud of the students work. The students do really, really well, said John Reddish, who has been filling in as program chairman. Theres a big need for construction workers, too, he said. Said Klepfer, Theyre trained, they can work in construction, they can make good money. We feel really excited for them for their future. The house at 2908 will be the colleges last in the subdivision, said Don Kohler, vice president of marketing and public relations. Iowa Western is reorganizing its construction technology program and ending its partnership with NeighborWorks at least for now. What we want to do with the program is expand the opportunities for students in that program to broaden their skills, he said. At the recommendation of an advisory committee, the college will incorporate electrical, plumbing and HVAC work into the curriculum, Kohler said. We want to make sure our students have a well-rounded curriculum in construction technology, and we want to make sure theyre getting more opportunities to do those types of skills in their community project, he said. At a time when construction jobs are in high demand, its time to reshape our curriculum to better fit the needs of the construction community. As work progresses on Black Hills Energys new training center just east of Iowa Westerns Council Bluffs Campus, the colleges construction technology students will build a series of small houses that Black Hills can use for training, Kohler said. Hazlewood has lined up another contractor to join Atlas in building the houses on the Avenue K side of the Walnut Grove block. A third contractor will be hired for construction of a house on the one empty lot left on the Avenue J side, he said. That will complete the 14-home development. The Council Bluffs Community School District closed Walnut Grove Elementary in 2014 and sold it to NeighborWorks Home Solutions for $104,000 in 2015 for development of the subdivision. Completing needed repairs and a renovation of the school would not have been cost-effective, district officials said. Demolition of the building began in late 2016 with Community Development Block Grant funds from the city of Council Bluffs. Iowa Western began construction of the first home at 2922 Ave. J in August 2017 and completed it in April 2018. The Iowa West Foundation and Heistand Family Foundation provided funding for the development, and American National Bank financed the rest. NP Dodge is selling the homes and donating its services. Menards is providing discounts on building supplies. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Watch for lights and then move over. Over the next few weeks, the Council Bluffs Police Department will work with the Iowa Department of Transportation, the Pottawattamie County Sheriffs Office and the Iowa State Patrol on a Move Over selective enforcement program. Iowa law now says drivers must move over or slow down for all vehicles including construction and disabled vehicles on the side of the road with flashing or hazard lights on. The departments will work together to ensure all motorists are traveling in a safe manner, according to a press release from the police department. All 50 states have versions of this type of law, which is commonly referred to as a Move Over law. The laws are meant to protect workers and others who are along the side of the road from being hit by passing motorists. Iowa first put the law into effect in 2002. At that time, it included only certain emergency and maintenance vehicles. Last year, the law was expanded to include utility vehicles and others working alongside the roadway. The latest version of the law, which went into effect in July 2018, includes all vehicles displaying flashing or hazard lights, including private vehicles who may be stopped due to vehicle trouble or emergencies. The following editorial was published in The Fort Dodge Messenger on May 6: In January, Gov. Kim Reynolds set out an ambitious agenda for Iowa lawmakers. With the 2019 legislative session now over, the governor can look back on what was accomplished with a good deal of satisfaction. Not everything she advocated was approved but major progress in moving toward the goals she outlined in her Condition of the State Address was achieved. The biggest winners of this legislative session were Iowa students, families, farmers, small business owners and our rural communities, Reynolds said in a statement issued just after the Legislature adjourned. We made historic investments into pre-K-12 Education and put more money into community colleges and our public universities. We protected job creators who hire individuals with past criminal offenses and funded the Future Ready Iowa Initiative, so that Iowans can get the skills they need for cutting-edge careers. Among the most important actions by the Legislature were increased funding for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade education and the creation of a first-of-its-kind Childrens Mental Health System for the state. Additionally, the Governors Empower Rural Iowa Initiative, which got the Legislatures approval, will help make sure that no part of the Hawkeye State is left behind as we ready our state for continued success in the 21st century. Reynolds asked the Legislature to begin the process of amending the states constitution to make essentially automatic the restitution of voting rights to felons once they had completed their sentences. Even though this action had strong support among lawmakers it failed to achieve approval this year. We applaud the governors commitment to keep this proposal moving forward when the Legislature reconvenes in January. We commend the governor and members of the Legislature for continuing to keep the states finances in good order. Frugal management of the monies provided by Iowas taxpayers long has been a priority of the Republican Party. Reynolds and the GOP majorities in both houses of the Legislature are keeping faith with that important goal. Looking to the future, the governor has an innovative vision for Iowa. We will also continue our focus on growing the economy as well as create opportunities to attract top talent to Iowa by sharing our story as a vibrant, affordable and welcoming state, Reynolds said. The Messenger thanks the governor for her superb leadership and dedication to keeping Iowa a wonderful place to call home and a state with an exceptionally bright future. Her most recent recognition was spearheaded by her daughter, Ginger Carr, when Gift was recognized by Eagle Radio as Teacher of the Month. Mom got over 600 letters of recommendation, more than anyone has ever received, Carr said. Rose was sponsor not only of FCCLA, but also of the rodeo club, and junior class sponsor, helping oversee prom for over 20 years. She helped students organize Senior Citizen Action Day, during which students would do lawn care and other tasks for those unable to in the community. She also helped students organize Superheroes of the Sandhills, an April fundraiser to help residents with cancer. Gift traveled with her students to FCCLA state and national conventions in Colorado, Idaho, Texas, Missouri and Minnesota, and with her art students to metropolitan art galleries, such as Omaha, Lincoln and Denver. Gift has been on the Thedford Area Community Foundation ever since its conception. Mrs. Gift was always the first one at school, and the last one to leave, was an often-repeated sentiment. Jacque Trumbull of Tryon wrote a tribute of her teaching tenure, which was read during the program, and the framed copy was presented to Gift. Running into a burning building, instead of away from the danger, defies reason and nearly every human impulse. But that is exactly what our firefighters do in Nebraska and across the country every day. At the ring of a bell, these heroes in our communities risk their lives to ensure we are safe in some of lifes most dangerous situations. However, we have learned in recent years that running into the flames is not the only dangerous part of a firefighters job. If we think about what is in our own homes, we can understand why. From furniture to cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink, all of these materials will likely burn in a house fire releasing toxic chemicals, fumes and carcinogens into the air. This creates an additional risk that our firefighters must shoulder when they enter a burning home or building. And even when the fire is extinguished, black soot and dangerous chemicals can stick to firefighters gear. You are clearly a super-user of NUVO.net. Thats a good thing. It means you depend on independent and local news sources to keep you informed. You are a smart person. Coincidentally, independent and local news sources depend on you too. Youve read 25 articles this month and now, wed like you to be join our mission and become a NUVO Supporter. For as little as $4 a month, you can keep us alive and fighting -- and can have unlimited access to the independent news that cant be found anywhere else. Im away this week, but Im happy to report that author and veteran educator Sarah Tantillo has graciously agreed to step in. Sarah works as a consultant at The Literacy Cookbook after a career as a New Jersey high school teacher. Shell be sharing some thoughts and reflections on her forthcoming book, Hit the Drum: An Insiders Account of How the Charter School Idea Became a National Movement . This week, shell be exploring why charter schooling took off, why some charter schools are lousy, and why chartering is one reform thats stuck around. Critics often ask: If chartering is such a great idea, why arent all charter schools great? Charter school founders face an array of challenges. Here are eight worth considering: 1) Finding and financing the facility. Except in a few states, charters receive no facilities funding and must pay for renovations and facilities expenses out of their operating expenses . Its hard to secure a bridge loan when your school isnt open yet and you have no collateral. Even if you happen to find a free building, as one charter school founder said, Free isnt really free. You still have to pay for renovations and maintenanceeven if the building comes with a janitor. 2) Startup costs. In the early days, it was difficult to start charters because so few people knew what they were. Potential vendors were suspicious of these unknown entities. Ive personally met several founders who mortgaged their homes to cover startup costs. Before the federal government began offering startup grants in 1994, the absence of startup funding was not only challenging for founders individually; it also created some unanticipated problems for the movement as a whole. 3) Some bad apples. The state of Arizona, which suffered from a lack of philanthropy, was seen as fertile ground by for-profit EMOs (Educational Management Organizations). In an interview, Jim Ford, who consulted there in the late 1990s, explained: People thought EMOs had the magic sauce because they brought capital. So the Arizona State Charter School Board received a lot of political pressure to approve for-profit EMOs. Some people drew negative conclusions about the motivations of founders when they heard about the involvement of for-profit entities. The perception that charter founders were in it for the money was exacerbated by the actions of some nonprofit community-based organizations and community development organizations, which treated charters as cash cows for their parent organizations: having students meant a guaranteed income stream. A Progressive Policy Institute study of Arizonas charter schools from 1994 to 2004 noted that there had been serious problems at individual charter schools, ranging from egregious financial misconduct to illegal religious instruction to discrimination against children with disabilities. Arizona saw rapid charter growth. By 2003, 495 schoolsnearly one out of four public schools in the statewere charters. Not surprisingly, there were questions about quality control. As of December 2003, only seven charters had been revoked; 36 had voluntarily surrendered their charter (or closed under threat of revocation), and three revocations were pending. As a result, Arizona became known as The Wild West . Some of the toxic seeds planted there grew into three sweeping lines of attack that critics have since used against charter schools nationally: A) Charters were private or just another attempt to privatize education and make a profit, B) Charter founders just wanted to start religious schools, and C) Many charters were terrible. 4) Staff recruitment and retention. Finding talented educators is an ongoing challenge for the field. Along with the routine difficulties of getting the right people on the bus, as Jim Collins would say, brand-new charters face an additional struggle: Its hard to recruit staff when your school doesnt exist yet. People want to know, What am I signing up for? 5) Student recruitment. Along the same lines, when you start a new school, you are asking parents to trust you to provide a great education for their children in a school that doesnt exist yet. And if you fail to meet your student recruitment targets, you will be under-enrolled and therefore under-funded. 6) Governance. On the surface, it might seem as though charter school boards have advantages over district boards. One of the open secrets of traditional public schooling has been the inability of many elected board members to meet their responsibilities. Board corruption, nepotism, local feuds, and incompetence have plagued school systems for decades, often leading to high rates of superintendent turnover and causing instability in districts. In charters, appointed trustees have the potential, at least, to develop a stable governance structure. But being appointedas opposed to electedis no guarantee of quality. And being committed to the mission is not enough, either. Board members must understand all aspects of their charter agreement, and they need skills and training in order to conduct proper fiscal and academic oversight. Unfortunately, the training they receive is often inadequate or misdirected. 7) Opponents. Although the idea of chartering has had bipartisan support among political leaders since its inception, it has also had staunch enemies. As Ted Kolderie observed in an interview, the idea was just automatically, instinctively opposed by all of the associations representing the organized elements of K-12. Opposition from teachers unions (with a few exceptions ) has been unrelenting. In spite of AFT leader Al Shankers early advocacy, many state-level union leaders have worked aggressively to undermine charters, presumably because in most cases they are not required to be unionized (and therefore do not generate dues). 8) Ineffective authorizers. Ironically, one of the biggest impediments to charter school quality is the authorizers whose job it is to approve and monitor the performance of the schools. NACSA (National Association of Charter School Authorizers) was founded to address that issue. In spite of these challenges, many charter schools have not merely survived but thrived. Check out the CREDO reports for more information. Sarah Tantillo ArcelorMittal USA is coming off its best financial performance since 2007, but the multinational steelmaker's business is not faring as well across the pond at its home base in the European Union. Luxembourg-based ArcelorMittal, one of the Region's largest employers with more than 10,000 steelworkers, announced it will idle a steel mill in Poland and slash production at another mill in Spain. The steelmaker said it would cut European production by 3 million tons, which it described as a "regrettable decision necessary due to a combination of weakening demand, rising imports coupled with insufficient EU trade protection, high energy costs and rising carbon costs." The difficult decision to temporarily reduce our European primary flat steel production has not been taken lightly," ArcelorMittal EuropeFlat Products CEO Geert van Poelvoorde said. "We understand the impact this has on employees and the local communities and will be working to ensure social measures are in place to support them during this period. These actions reflect the weak demand environment in Europe today, a situation further compounded by increased imports despite the safeguard measures introduced by the European Commission. High energy costs and increasing carbon costs are adding to the tough environment." Carroll has confidence that Indiana American Water will receive authorization to acquire Lake Station's water utility, and that will provide tremendous assistance to stabilize Lake Station's finances. Carroll has indicated he also plans to focus on enhancing the appearance of the city by razing dilapidated and abandoned homes. In addition to addressing aesthetic issues, those efforts could produce other benefits. After demolishing empty homes, the lots could be sold to bring new residential development that can enhance the assessed value in the city, he said. Carroll said he also will explore all possible grants available to help improve road conditions in the city. Carroll said when he decided to run for mayor, he committed to running a clean and factual campaign. He said he delivered on that promise. Carroll is a political newcomer, but he said he's well aware of the issues facing the city and concerns residents have. He said that knowledge has come from volunteering with the Friends in Gratitude Helping Together, or FIGHT, and Lake Station Lions Club organizations. However, Aguilera couldnt overcome Copelands well financed re-election effort. Copeland raised more than a $250,000 in donations, while Aguilera ran his campaign on $44,000, much of which came from his own pockets. Copeland said his record in office proved he is building a better East Chicago. "You guys believed this could be a better, safer place and you didn't let Aguilera fill out my report card," he said Tuesday night. "Everything is in place and we have only one direction to go and that's up." The mayor said he had put the citys public finances on a sound foundation by balancing the city budget, unlike the previous administration that had created $15-million, annual budget deficits that forced the city to rely on an unpredictable stream of casino gaming fees. Copeland said, before taking office almost nine years ago, city employees were experiencing pay cuts and facing payless furlough days. Under his administration theyve received annual bonuses between $500 and $1,800 in addition to a 2% pay raise this year. HIGHLAND - In the only Highland Town Council primary, incumbent President Steve Wagner easily defeated Bill Frantal's challenge to represent the Democrats in the fourth ward race in November. With about two-thirds of the vote, Wagner said he is proud that the residents continue their support for him. "I will use this strong show of support to ensure a victory over my next challenger in the November general election." Wagner said the parks, public works, fire and police departments must be maintained, along with redevelopment projects, to keep Highland prospering. "I am sincerely grateful for this victory tonight and will make sure that 'Wagner' works for all of Highland ," Wagner said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 CROWN POINT For the fifth year in a row, Crown Point Mayor David Uran has pledged to advocate for ethical practices in government. Uran is one of almost 180 candidates for all county, municipal and township offices in Lake, LaPorte and Porter counties that recently signed the Shared Ethics Advisory Commissions Ethics Action Pledge. Since 2014, the commission has invited candidates to sign the pledge. Those who do, promise to have all employees within their respective government offices participate in ethics training. They also pledge to an ethics policy and enforcement of that policy and to act as protection for whistleblowers who file ethics complaints. I believe in transparency in government and that its important to continue to ethically work toward what the community expects of its elected officials and what we expect out of ourselves, Uran said. Based on our track record as being one of the first communities involved in the commission, we have done everything we have said we would do. That will continue, too. Uran said the pledge document was sent to all other candidates running in the primary elections in Crown Point, but he did not personally receive his copy to sign. VALPARAISO Businessman Bill Durnell won in his first foray into politics Tuesday. Durnell, 44, defeated Valparaiso City Councilwoman Deb Porter, in the Democrat primary. He will now face Republican City Councilman Matt Murphy in the November election. Durnell, owner of Roots Organic Juice Cafe and Vale City Technology consulting firm, said during his campaign he would continue current Mayor Jon Costas' work, but there are a "handful of things where I would want to distinguish myself. There is always room for new ideas." Durnell watched the votes come in Tuesday night at his cafe in downtown Valparaiso. "I feel great. I am so proud of the campaign we ran. I didn't know what to expect," Durnell said, adding he and his team put their best foot, and a lot of effort, forward, and it paid off. He credited his win to his positive vision and business experience. "We are going to enjoy tonight, and tomorrow we are going to start thinking about the general election," Durnell said. LAPORTE Incumbent Michigan City Mayor Ron Meer squeezed out a narrow victory Tuesday over Democratic primary challenger Virginia Martin, according to vote figures provided by the county. The Republican nomination went to Duane Parry, who won three-quarters of the vote over opponent Robert Lonie. "It's very encouraging to move forward," Parry said. "I'm anxious to face Mr. Meer in the fall." Parry said he offers a conservative approach that is much needed in the city and is running on the theme of investment for Michigan City and its people. While far more Democrats cast ballots in the Michigan City mayoral race Tuesday than Republicans, Parry said he is not concerned. Tuesday's vote represents only those willing to declare a party in primary, and there are far more voters who come out to vote in general elections, he said. Meer, who easily beat his second primary challenger Clifford Thatcher Jr., was not immediately available Tuesday night for comment on his victory. Meer, 54, is a lifelong resident of Michigan City, who had served two terms on the City Council. He is seeking his third four-year term as mayor. "It is a new day for Portage. We are ready to turn a new page," Lynch said, adding she hopes to get more new people involved in the city as she moves forward. Lynch, who opposed the passage of the wheel tax, said she believes getting the city's financial house in order will be her first priority and has called for an audit to determine how money has been spent in the city. During her campaign, she emphasized the need to work with other cities and towns to bring money to the Region and to work with the state in renegotiating the lease for the operation of the Indiana Toll Road to get Portage its fair share. She also emphasized needed work in the city's downtown and to its infrastructure. Maletta, whose father served multiple terms as mayor, came in second in the race, followed by Stidham and Hatch. Maletta had called for new leadership in the city, along with working together and transparency. He urged the city to develop a "culture of continuous improvement" and improve its efficiency and operations. Never looking for self-promotion, Jack would occasionally show up on a fire scene just to make sure we were OK. He always had something for us firefighters and those affected by the fire. Sometimes it was coffee, sometimes snacks," Hill wrote. "I watched Jack hand out small care packages to families that lost everything in a house fire and, with an incredible amount of compassion, assured them everything was going to be OK. Jack truly made a difference in a positive way with everybody he touched. Hobart Fire Department officials said Eskridges home was the Lowell Fire Department, but he was loved and respected throughout the state. He always had a smile on his face, a kind word, a firm handshake and love in his heart, fire officials wrote in a Facebook post. Jack will be missed by all of us, but we know he is smiling down on firefighters everywhere. Visitation will be from 1-8 p.m. Monday with funeral services starting at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Sheets Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 604 E. Commercial Ave. in Lowell. Burial will follow in Lowell Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the Eskridge family asks contributions be given to the Lowell Volunteer Fire Department, Tri-Creek EMS or Hoosier Burn Camp, an organization that provides therapeutic and recreational programs to young burn survivors. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 19 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. GARY Two people were found dead early Wednesday after a fire in their apartment, authorities said. Sabrina Lemon, 48, and an unidentified 57-year-old man were found in a locked bedroom inside their apartment in the 1100 block of Connecticut Street, according to the Lake County coroner's office and police. Gary police were dispatched Tuesday night and again about 4 a.m. Wednesday to 1153 Connecticut St. for disturbances, police Cmdr. Jack Hamady said. While en route to the second call, officers were notified of a possible structure fire. An officer arrived and saw flames coming from under a door, Hamady said. The officer kicked the door in an attempt to get into the bedroom, broke a door panel and saw a body inside. The officer backed out and advised firefighters someone was inside the room, he said. Coroner's investigators were called to the scene about 4:40 a.m. and pronounced Lemon and the man dead. The causes and manners of death were pending further investigation. The deaths remained under investigation pending the coroner's final report, Hamady said. LOWELL Political newcomer Brandon Newcomb has apparently won the Republican nomination for Lowell's 1st Ward Town Council seat. He turned back a challenge from Michael Mears, a former Lynwood, Illinois police chief and fire chief. Newcomb, 27, is a firefighter and EMT for the city of Gary as well as operations manager for Newcomb Lawn Care & Landscaping in Lowell. He is a past member of the Lowell Volunteer Fire Department. A first-time candidate, Newcomb said he's followed the town's progress in recent years, often in conversations with Lowell Town Council President Chris Salatas, R-4th, with whom he went to school. "The town has evolved. It's grown so much since I've been here," he said, noting his family moved to Lowell 20 years ago. "I know budgets. I have good public skills and communicate well," Newcomb said. Those abilities, he said, would serve the town well. Newcomb said public safety is a primary concern. As the town develops westward, infrastructure planning will be key, and he can bring his abilities to that process, Newcomb said. He faces Michael Gruszka, a Democrat, in November. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Brown, a nurse for Kindred Hospital, an acute rehabilitation facility in Hammond, said when she found out she won the award she "almost cried, because I'm a little crybaby. ... I teared up." "Seeing people get healed it's a ministry for me," she said. "I love people. I want to see them do well in life: physically, mentally and spiritually." Vezmar, who does IV therapy at Community Hospital, was this year's winner of the Times reader vote. "There not a place I go in Northwest Indiana, where people don't say, 'You took care of my mom.' 'You took care of my baby,'" said Vezmar, a nurse for the past two decades. Serrano has only been a nurse for four years now, but has already made his mark. He said he felt "honored" to be recognized as among the best in his craft. He said he relishes, "the contact we have with patients, how we can inspire people to improve their health and help them in their times of need." "A lot of people feel lost, and we can be that bridge to health for them," he said. "They trust us, so it's an amazing thing to be involved with people we don't even know." In speeches, he favors the nation and the people over the ummah, or community of believers, a term preferred by Irans clerics, who constantly guard against any revival of pre-Islamic nationalism. He has also said he is ready for talks with the United States, something other Iranian leaders strongly oppose under current circumstances. Mr. Ahmadinejad regularly brings up the topic of corruption by other officials, and he hints that they have accumulated wealth and power because of their positions. Some of the relationships, which had been formed as a result of groupings and power-mongering pursuits in the country, have come to an end, and with the help of God will be purged from the revolution and the holy Islamic republic, he asserted recently. The president has also taken to using the slogan long live spring in his speeches, which some have interpreted as an allusion to the Arab Spring uprisings. This way of thinking and talking about Human Awakening is political mischief and dangerous, one newspaper wrote in an editorial. Mr. Ahmadinejads maneuvering is all about his legacy, experts say, an effort to preserve both his political power and his allies. In effect, the president has created a new current in Irans political establishment, said Reza Kaviani, an analyst at the Porsesh Institute, which is aligned with Irans former president,Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a moderate opponent of Mr. Ahmadinejad. He has organized himself, placed bureaucrats in key positions. He will outlive his two terms, and so will his friends. But how he will remain and at what costs is unclear for now. Mr. Ahmadinejads support of Mr. Mashaei, his spiritual mentor and the father-in-law of his son, is a particular stick in the eye for the conservatives, as well as a subtle appeal to more progressive Iranians. In messages filled with poetic language, Mr. Mashaei repeatedly propagates the importance of the nation of Iran over that of Islam. Leading ayatollahs and commanders say that Mr. Ahmadinejad has been bewitched by the tall, beardless 52-year old, whom they have called a Freemason, a foreign spy and a heretic. They accuse Mr. Mashaei of plotting to oust the generation of clerics who have ruled Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution and of promoting direct relations with God, instead of through clerical intermediaries. He and his allies, they say, are part of a deviant current. In an unusual move, a Federal District Court judge on Tuesday ordered directors of Pacific Gas and Electric to visit the Northern California town destroyed by the states deadliest wildfire, which the utility has said was most likely started by its equipment. The judge, William H. Alsup, ordered the board members to visit Paradise by July, and to create a new safety committee. He said the visit would impress upon the executives the devastation caused by the Camp Fire in November 2018. The blaze killed at least 85 people and destroyed nearly 19,000 homes, businesses and other structures, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. We can get a bus. I think Im going to go on this tour, too, Judge Alsup said during the hearing. All lawyers can go, but the board of directors ought to see firsthand the devastation. Judge Alsup issued the order after PG&E was found to have violated its probation. The company was placed on probation after being convicted of six felonies that stemmed from a 2010 gas pipeline explosion in San Bruno just south of San Francisco. The judge also told the companys executives to meet with officials in San Bruno. [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] It began last fall, when students new to Cinnaminson Middle School in New Jersey brought home rumors of a rapist at the school. Eventually, their alarmed parents discovered that a teacher, Joseph DeShan, had a past life as a Roman Catholic priest in Bridgeport, Conn.: In the late 80s, when then-Father DeShan was about 30 years old, he began a sexual relationship with a girl half his age, with whom he had a child. This information was not a secret. The teachers past had first surfaced in 2002, when he was briefly removed from the classroom but was allowed to return by the superintendent at the time. The small community of 16,000 seemed to accept his past. But residents now find themselves divided over what has become an emotionally charged debate in the southern New Jersey town, prompting hostile exchanges on Facebook, at sporting events and during school functions. The amnesty granted to two Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists imprisoned in Myanmar was good news and a tribute both to their courage and to the many journalists, national leaders and human rights organizations that had campaigned for their freedom. But the release of U Wa Lone, 33, and U Kyaw Soe Oo, 29, on Tuesday was hardly an admission by the government that their arrest and trial were a gross injustice and an assault on the press to begin with. The two Reuters reporters were arrested in December 2017 after uncovering details of the gruesome murder of 10 Rohingya men and boys , followed by the burning and looting of their village by security forces, as part of a widespread military crackdown on the Rohingya, a Muslim minority, that drove more than 700,000 to flee across the border to refugee camps in Bangladesh. The evidence the reporters gathered, subsequently published by Reuters, was indisputable and acknowledged even by Myanmar authorities. That did not prevent the military-controlled government, however, from arresting the pair on obviously concocted evidence, subjecting them to brutal intimidation and interrogations and charging them under the colonial-era Official Secrets Act. The reporters were both sentenced to seven years in prison, and the penalty was confirmed by the Supreme Court only last month. The government has insisted that its campaign against the Rohingya was precipitated by attacks on Myanmar security forces by Rohingya militants. But the 15-month crackdown went far beyond any police operation and turned into a campaign of killings, rapes and torching of villages against a minority long held in disdain by the Buddhist majority as aliens who have no place in Myanmar. A United Nations fact-finding mission declared in August 2018 that the atrocities undoubtedly amount to the gravest crimes under international law. I dont mean a third party that sits between Democrats and Republicans. We need a Republican third-party candidate who wont just primary Trump but will get on the general election ballot and challenge him in 2020 in all 50 states but do it from his right, not from the center. Yes, we need a Republican who will do the most high-minded, patriotic thing I can imagine today fall on the Trump grenade. That is, run against Trump from the right in the national election as, say, a libertarian who could oppose Trump for his tariffs, his piling up of the national debt, his opposition to immigration and his immorality. This could siphon off just enough Republican votes for Trump to lose close races in Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Nevada and Florida. We need a Republican who will do to Trump what Ralph Nader did to Al Gore in Florida in 2000. Even if you believe (as I do) that the Supreme Court improperly stopped a Florida recount that could well have given the race to Gore, the fact remains that without Nader on the ballot, there would have been no protracted recount spectacle and no Supreme Court involvement, noted Bill Scher on RealClearPolitics. The official Florida tally gave Bush the win by 537 votes (48.847 percent to 48.838 percent), while Nader racked up 97,488 votes. Second, we need some dutiful people to bear witness. There is now a club of people who have served at the top of Trumps administration in the past two years who either quit, because they would not bend, or were forced out after Trump could bend them no longer: Mattis, Don McGahn, H.R. McMaster, Rex Tillerson, Gary Cohn, Kirstjen Nielsen, John Kelly, Jeff Sessions and Reince Priebus. (We also need to hear from Robert Mueller.) We need them all to bear witness to the dishonesty, indecency and dysfunction they saw while serving Trump and to his unfitness for high office. We cant wait for their memoirs or anonymous, ineffective leaks. They dont have to take sides left or right. We need them to side with the truth. That is the essence of acting honorably. It is high time they stopped holding their tongues while Trump lashes them all with his. If all those people bear witness at the right time, it could have a major impact. Elie Wiesel put it well: We must take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Sometimes we must interfere. Finally, most important, we need a Democratic candidate who can appeal not only to Democrats but also hold the independents, moderate Republicans and suburban women whose votes shifted the House to the Democrats in the 2018 midterm elections and whose support will be vital for any Democrat to win the presidency. Hes treating Congress like theyre the Chinese or a local labor union working on a Trump building. JOHN C. YOO, a law professor at the University of California, Berkeley, and an ex-official in the George W. Bush administration, on President Trumps blanket refusal to provide information to Congress. LOS ANGELES A federal appeals court on Tuesday ruled that the Trump administration can continue to enforce a policy that returns asylum seekers to Mexico while they wait for an immigration court to decide their cases. The ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit allows the government to continue enforcing the policy, formally called the Migration Protection Protocols, while the legal issues of the case are being decided. It was an unusual victory for the Trump administration in the liberal-leaning court, though the judges did not rule on the merits of the case. The Trump administration unveiled the Remain in Mexico program in December for migrants entering the country in San Diego and has since expanded it to El Paso. It is intended to crack down on asylum claims, which have soared as Central American migrants have crossed the United States southwestern border in ever-larger numbers over the past year. A gas company announced Tuesday that it had reached a settlement with three communities in the Merrimack Valley of Massachusetts after explosions and fires ripped through dozens of homes there last year, killing one person and injuring several more. The blasts on Sept. 13 forced thousands of people to evacuate. Residents of the communities affected Lawrence, Andover and North Andover were not immediately sure what was to blame. The authorities investigating the episode soon focused their attention on Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, which supplies natural gas to the area and had been working upgrade the distribution system around the time of the explosions. On Tuesday, about eight months after the explosions, Columbia Gas, whose parent company is NiSource, announced a settlement with the municipalities: It is paying $80 million to cover costs associated with infrastructure repair and other expenses. WASHINGTON Top Senate Republicans pushed for an end to the stalemate over an emergency disaster relief package, with the leading Republican on the Senate Appropriations Committee warning the administration on Tuesday that failure to swiftly move forward was likely to derail major budget legislation needed in the coming months. Senator Richard C. Shelby, Republican of Alabama and the chairman of the committee, pressed the need to resolve the issue on Tuesday with Vice President Mike Pence in a private lunch with Republican senators. My point was, if we cant do this, what the heck can we do on something much bigger? Mr. Shelby said, referring to looming deadlines to counter strict spending limits and avoid another government shutdown. Negotiations over billions of dollars for recovery efforts have been gridlocked, primarily because lawmakers have struggled to reach a consensus over the amount of funding allocated for Puerto Rico. In their most recent offer, Senate Republicans had proposed an additional $300 million for the island, prompting top lawmakers to express optimism about a final deal. WASHINGTON The special counsels office sought to keep secret the memos written by the former F.B.I. director James B. Comey, in an attempt to stop those under investigation like President Trump from tailoring their stories to line up with Mr. Comeys accounts, according to a court transcript made public Tuesday. Lawyers for the special counsel, Robert S. Mueller III, made their arguments in a closed-door hearing in January 2018 before a federal judge, who was overseeing a lawsuit to have memos Mr. Comey wrote about his interactions with the president released to the public. News organizations had sued the Justice Department over access to the memos, but the case became moot when Congress made them public three months later. The judge ordered a transcript of the hearing released on Tuesday. The transcript provides a window into the status of the special counsels investigation eight months after Mr. Mueller began examining whether Mr. Trump obstructed justice, among other issues. At the hearing, one of Mr. Muellers top lawyers, Michael Dreeben, tried to illustrate the severity of the investigation, the questions over the presidents conduct and the potential benefits for witnesses who had read Mr. Comeys memos. An individual who is seeking to shape or mold his own statements around those of others thereby acquires an advantage in doing so that he would not otherwise have, Mr. Dreeben said, according to the transcript. WASHINGTON The Trump administration would consider lifting sanctions on Venezuelan officials who abandoned the government of President Nicolas Maduro and joined the opposition seeking to topple him, Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday. The United States of America will consider sanctions relief for all those who step forward, stand up for the Constitution and support the rule of law, Mr. Pompeo said at the annual Washington Conference on the Americas, held at the State Department. To emphasize his point, Mr. Pence said the United States was removing sanctions imposed against Gen. Manuel Cristopher Figuera, an intelligence chief who defected recently to support Juan Guaido, the head of Venezuelas National Assembly. In January, Mr. Guaido cited the countrys Constitution in naming himself interim president and accusing Mr. Maduro of trying to remain in power for a second term on the basis of an illegitimate election last year. [Read more about the cellphone video and reaction to it.] The trooper ordered Ms. Bland out of the car, but she refused. He shouted that he would yank you out and tried to do so, but she resisted. He pulled out a stun gun and yelled, I will light you up. At that point, Ms. Bland got out of the car. The newly released video ends there, but the encounter remained heated; before long, Ms. Bland was shouting insults and profanities and the trooper had her in handcuffs. What happened in jail? Ms. Bland was booked and placed in a housing area for women in the one-story Waller County Jail. Three days later, on July 13, a guard making rounds found her hanging in her 15-by-20-foot cell. Waller County officials said she was found in a semi-standing position, with a plastic trash-can liner roped around her neck and affixed to a U-shaped metal hook overhead. Ms. Bland was pronounced dead at 9:16 a.m. The authorities ruled her death a suicide. Two of her jailers left the Waller County sheriffs office shortly afterward. What happened to the state trooper? Trooper Encinia was indicted on a charge of perjury, the only criminal charge arising from the case. Grand jurors accused him of making a false statement when he claimed that his purpose in ordering Ms. Bland out of her car was to more safely conduct a traffic investigation. That charge was dismissed at the request of prosecutors, in exchange for the troopers promise that he would never again work in law enforcement. Chip Lewis, a Houston lawyer who represented Mr. Encinia in the investigation, said his client has a new career. Hes working in the private sector, supporting his wife and family and living a quiet life, Mr. Lewis said. When the United States said this week that American forces in Iraq faced threats from Iranian proxies, it was referring to the armed groups that helped fight the Islamic State and have bedeviled Iraq ever since. The Iraqi armed groups, some with ties to Iran, have a footprint in every Iraqi province. Whether they function as Iranian proxies, however, is far from settled. The word proxy implies that these are tools of Iran, and they arent, said Anthony H. Cordesman, a national security analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. You have a range of groups in Iraqs Popular Mobilization: Some are Sunni, some are pro-Iraqi government, some have ties to the Quds force and the Islamic Guard, he said. ROBERTA SMITH I also had high hopes for this show, without quite knowing what I was hoping for. I reread Sontag, and by the end, despite her brilliance in identifying it, she makes camp seem fairly large and elastic and its become only more so. Also theres the issue of being outdated in terms of contemporary culture. FRIEDMAN The justification for doing this now, in an institution like the Met, seems to be that in periods of great divisions and dissent, camp, with its multiple interpretations and exaggerated aesthetic, rises to the fore. Camp also functions as a safe space for marginalized groups to engage in self-expression and cultural commentary. Yet I did not feel, looking at the clothes even the Viktor & Rolf meme-bait tulle bombs that I just saw on the runway in January that what I was seeing was a visual expression of this moment. Though I did get a sense of its place in a historical and artistic tradition. SMITH What would Sontag have cited as camp today, when we seem to be up to our necks in it? Still, even before rereading Notes on Camp, a thumb-through of the shows lavish if cumbersome catalog excited me. It raised two very art-specific ideas. First, that camp begins with the invention of the contrapposto pose one hip thrust out, elbow cocked in Greek sculpture, which seems brilliant, as well as apt because of the Greek acceptance of love between men. Second, there was the notion that the Pre-Raphaelite painters were camp innocent or inadvertent camp, according to Sontag . This idea made me much more sympathetic to the excess and overt displays of skills of these artists, although Im not sure how they would have taken it. So I expected the show to shake me up. But once beyond the historical material, it looked surprisingly predictable and not very coded, either. FRIEDMAN Funny, I also thought the beginning was by far the most compelling section. I loved seeing that little bronze classical nude of Belvedere Antinous from 1630 (attributed to Pietro Tacca) in the entrance gallery with the Mapplethorpe photo of the marble Antinous from 1987, the Vivienne Westwood tights with the mirrored olive leaf over the crotch and the photograph from Hal Fischers 1977 Gay Semiotics. All of these male nudes have their elbows cocked out from one hip in that classic exaggerated pose of se camper. That, to me, was a powerful argument for camp as a cultural through-line. LOS ANGELES Klaus Biesenbach, the director of the Museum of Contemporary Art here, has just made his first major curatorial hire. Mia Locks, best known as co-organizer of the 2017 Whitney Biennial, will join his team as a senior curator in July. Mia is a very engaged and research-driven curator who works closely with artists and is interested in how museums can reach out and address issues of social justice, environmental justice, the urgent questions of our time, said Mr. Biesenbach, who has run the institution for six months after a long tenure at MoMA PS1. For us this was very important. Ms. Locks had worked at MOCA once before, starting her career there as a curatorial assistant in 2010 before joining MoMA PS1 in 2013, where she was an assistant curator. In 2015, she was one of four curators to organize Greater New York for that museum. In 2017, as an independent curator working in New York, she teamed up with Christopher Y. Lew to organize the Whitney Biennial, which was acclaimed for its formal and racial diversity but also attacked for its inclusion of Dana Schutzs painting of Emmett Till. Mr. Biesenbach praised her handling of the controversy. Shes a great mediator, a great communicator, he said. I thought she did a good job of keeping conversation going and supporting both sides. This exhibition envisions a future somewhere from 2040 to 2060, unfolding over five dimly lit funhouse rooms (without the fun). Tables and display cases hold melting blocks of ice that cause water to rise around dollhouse-size legislative buildings molded in mud gathered from the Potomac River. Water from the melting ice collects in buckets beneath the tables and cases and will be refrozen and put back in the sculptures throughout the show. Elsewhere are sculptures of buildings created in wax, also melting. (They will be recast and reinstalled.) In the final room, giant vitrines with eerie orange and purple light contain round vessels encasing miniature scenes of work or leisure: tiny computers, office equipment and beach chairs. Its like staring into a flooded version of our already memorialized future. The gallery release written by Mr. Kline serves as a stern policy-brief-as-speculative-fiction. Were living in a soft dystopia now, he writes, but when/if the Antarctic ice sheet becomes unmoored and the worlds major cities are flooded, this will become a hard dystopia as people scramble for resources around the globe. In the same way specially fabricated doors embedded with sodden-looking fragments of national flags divide the exhibition, we are on a historical threshold between present and future, prediction and reality. Mr. Klines show offers a metaphorical-conceptual forecast , after which you can join young protesters in the streets. MARTHA SCHWENDENER Heidi Bucher Through June 15. Lehmann Maupin, 501 West 24th Street, Manhattan; 212-255-2923, lehmannmaupin.com. WAR AND PEACE FDRs Final Odyssey, D-Day to Yalta, 1943-1945 By Nigel Hamilton Admittedly, it is a pretty geeky parlor game, maybe one that has faded with time. But for years in many households, it provoked endless dinnertime debate. In the annals of the 20th century, who was the greater, more significant historical figure: Franklin D. Roosevelt or Winston Churchill? The case for Churchill is powerful. He rallied Britain against Hitlers hordes when the rest of Europe had fallen. While the United States remained on the sidelines and the Soviet Union embraced its devils-bargain alliance with Nazi Germany, Churchill virtually single-handedly defied the Third Reich in the face of existential threat: He was personally at risk, along with his countrymen, amid the cascade of bombs raining down on London during the Blitz. But count Nigel Hamilton in Roosevelts camp not just in his camp but perhaps his most passionate and eloquent champion. In War and Peace, his latest book on the American wartime leader, Hamilton presents a farsighted Roosevelt riding to the rescue of freedom, then setting the stage for a new world order to come. Churchill is depicted as a military dunderhead who let ego and imperial ambition get in the way of sensible strategy. Courageous? Yes. A stirring orator? Absolutely. But if not restrained by Roosevelt, Churchill, in Hamiltons view, might easily have lost World War II for the Allies. War and Peace is the third and final volume in Hamiltons F.D.R. at War trilogy and certainly as gripping and powerfully argued as the first two, The Mantle of Command and Commander in Chief. Hamilton, as the historian Evan Thomas once observed, ended up producing the extended memoir that Roosevelt himself never got to write. Throughout Hamiltons three books, Roosevelt is the wise and clever sage fending off myopic cabinet secretaries, generals, admirals and colleagues to steer the Allies to victory and the world to a better future. Year after year, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer, and the losses enabled him to avoid paying income taxes for eight of the 10 years. Here are five takeaways from our investigation. How we know: The Times did not obtain Mr. Trumps actual tax returns, which he has refused to release, but received the information from someone who had legal access to it. The information does not cover the tax years at the center of an escalating battle between the Trump administration and Congress. Response: A lawyer for Mr. Trump, Charles Harder, said that The Timess statements about the presidents tax returns and business from 30 years ago are highly inaccurate. He cited no specific errors but said that I.R.S. transcripts, particularly before the days of electronic filing, are notoriously inaccurate. The Daily: In todays episode, our reporters discuss the investigation. Iran is to quit parts of nuclear deal President Hassan Rouhani said today that his country would stop complying with two of its commitments under the 2015 agreement, which limited Irans capacity to produce nuclear fuel for 15 years. Earlier in the day, President Trump invoked executive privilege for the first time in his presidency to shield the full report. Response: In the coming days, I expect that Congress will have no choice but to confront the behavior of this lawless administration, said Representative Jerrold Nadler, Democrat of New York and the committees chairman. The White House press secretary, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, released a blistering statement: The American people see through Chairman Nadlers desperate ploy to distract from the presidents historically successful agenda and our booming economy. Neither the White House nor Attorney General Barr will comply with Chairman Nadlers unlawful and reckless demands. Separately, Donald Trump Jr. was subpoenaed by a Republican-led Senate panel to testify about a meeting with Russians after he was promised dirt on Hillary Clinton. 1. This is not a step we take lightly. That was Representative Jerrold Nadler, the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, above, as Democrats moved toward holding Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena for the unredacted Mueller report. The vote, along party lines, came hours after President Trump asserted executive privilege, the first of his term, over the same material. The Justice Department called the vote an unnecessary and overwrought reaction. Simultaneously, Boeing is shaping a public relations strategy to reach passengers. Although the final media plan is still in the works, Boeing will not be relying solely on its executives to win back the publics trust a recognition that its leadership has lost some good will. The company and airlines agree that the chief executive, Mr. Muilenburg, as the face of a company under intense scrutiny, may not be the most effective messenger. Instead, the initial plan calls for pilots to play a major role in the campaign. We think a key voice in all of this will be the pilots for our airlines, and their voice is very important, Mr. Muilenburg said on Boeings earnings call last month. That bond between the passenger and the pilot is one thats critical, and so were working with our airline customers and those pilot voices to ensure that we can build on that going forward. Boeing has enlisted media agencies, including Edelman, to plan the strategy for reintroducing the Max, and is considering buying ads to promote the plane. Airline executives in the United States are eager for the Max to return to service and for Boeing to succeed. But many are privately frustrated with the companys handling of the crisis, according to three people briefed on the matter. They believe that Boeing has badly mismanaged the public response to the crashes and are irked that the public relations blitz will fall to their pilots. Pilots, too, are reluctant to become brand ambassadors for Boeing, which barely interacted with them before the Lion Air crash in Indonesia last October, the first of the two deadly accidents. Ms. Holmess lawyers in the filing demanded records from the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services related to their interactions with John Carreyrou, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal who broke the story about problems with Theranoss technology. He later wrote a devastating portrayal of the company, Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup, that paints a picture of questionable practices in the companys operations. The defense claimed Mr. Carreyrous interactions with the federal agencies, including efforts to urge others to report problems at Theranos to regulators, is exculpatory information that must be turned over to the defendants. In evaluating the governments case, the jury should be aware that an outside actor, eager to break a story (and portray the story as a work of investigative journalism), was exerting influence on the regulatory process in a way that appears to have warped the agencies focus on the company and possibly biased the agencies findings against it, the filing states. The demand for the communications is based on what is known as the Brady doctrine, named for the Supreme Courts 1963 decision in Brady v. Maryland. In that case, the court held that prosecutors must turn over any evidence to a defendant that is both material and exculpatory. In the Brady case, prosecutors failed to disclose evidence that the defendant did not kill the victim but that a co-defendant committed the crime. That would have supported an argument for a reduced punishment. In demanding the communications with Mr. Carreyrou, Ms. Holmess defense appears to be creating a picture that government regulators overreacted when a reporter from The Wall Street Journal pushed them to investigate and misunderstood what was going on at Theranos. At the hearing, Mr. Simons and other commissioners would not discuss the Facebook investigation, which is not completed. But comments from F.T.C. commissioners provided insight into their thinking on privacy cases. The two Democratic commissioners said a punishment should send a strong message that a tech company in violation of privacy rules must change behavior. And in some cases, the F.T.C. should name top executives as liable parties, they said. For some firms fines are a parking ticket and the cost of doing business and cannot change behavior unless penalties are painful and finding out who at the top called the shots, said Rohit Chopra, one of the Democratic commissioners. Mr. Chopra added that strong enforcement should include looking at the role of individuals who made the decision that it was worth violating the law in order to profit. The issue of executive responsibility has been a divisive topic during the F.T.C.s settlement negotiations with Facebook, according to two people familiar with the decision. At one point, F.T.C. officials proposed naming Facebooks chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, as a responsible party. That would subject him to financial and other penalties if Facebook ran afoul of privacy rules in the future. Mr. Zuckerberg is not expected to be made personally responsible in a final settlement. [Read more: Facebook faces a big penalty, but regulators are split over how big.] Republican members warned of going too far with a new privacy law. Christine Wilson, one of the three Republican commissioners, said there could be unintended consequences, and added that some privacy laws could be more burdensome on small companies than tech giants like Facebook and Google. Redfin, the Seattle-based real estate brokerage, is starting a program that lets house hunters bid on properties directly through its website. The move aims to bring online shopping to a business dominated by attending weekend open houses and driving around with agents. The company recently tested the program in Boston and now plans to extend it in stages across the country. It is the latest sign that technology companies are encroaching on the decidedly low-tech world of real estate sales. Web-focused operations like Redfin, Zillow, Opendoor and Offerpad along with brokerage giants like Realogy, which owns Coldwell Banker and other brands have been building out instant buying programs that allow home sellers to solicit direct offers from the company. The Redfin program, Redfin Direct, is an effort to bring the approach to the other side of the transaction. Real estate agents groups will be watching to see whether Redfins competitors introduce similar programs. At stake is the roughly $110 billion a year in commissions generated by home sales. Starting in July, people under the age of 21 will no longer be able to buy tobacco products from Walmart or Sams Club stores in the United States. Walmart Inc. announced on Wednesday that it would be raising the minimum age for buying the products on July 1, making it the latest retailer to make changes regarding tobacco sales to minors. Walmarts move comes after a letter from the Food and Drug Administration last month that requested it to submit a plan to end illegal tobacco sales to minors. Walmart will also no longer sell fruit- and dessert-flavored electronic nicotine delivery systems and other devices for vaping, according to the companys announcement. Other retailers have also recently changed their policies around the sale of tobacco products to minors. Walgreens will stop selling them to customers under 21 in September, while Rite Aid announced in April it would remove e-cigarettes from its stores over the next 90 days. For its part, CVS stopped selling tobacco products in 2014. Several states have also moved to raise the minimum smoking age. Want climate news in your inbox? Sign up here for Climate Fwd:, our email newsletter. WASHINGTON Senior officials at the Environmental Protection Agency disregarded the advice of their own scientists and lawyers in April when the agency issued a rule that restricted but did not ban asbestos, according to two internal memos. Because of its fiber strength and resistance to heat, asbestos has long been used in insulation and construction materials. It is also a known carcinogen. Last months rule kept open a way for manufacturers to adopt new uses for asbestos, or return to certain older uses, but only with E.P.A. approval. Andrew Wheeler, the E.P.A. administrator, said when the rule was issued that it would significantly strengthen public health protections. But in the memos, dated Aug. 10, more than a dozen of E.P.A.s own experts urged the agency to ban asbestos outright, as do most other industrialized nations. Rather than allow for (even with restrictions) any new uses for asbestos, E.P.A. should seek to ban all new uses of asbestos because the extreme harm from this chemical substance outweighs any benefit and because there are adequate alternatives to asbestos, staff members wrote. I almost drove on the wrong side of the road. It was my first time getting behind the wheel in Australia. Actually, it was my first time in Australia. I went there because I wanted to know whether a year of extreme weather, a hallmark of climate change, would have any influence over how country votes in national elections on May 18. The answer to that question is important not just for Australia. What happens there could offer important lessons for politicians elsewhere on how to manage public anxiety over climate change. I relied entirely on the kindness of strangers. I spoke to farmers, ranchers, feed shop owners, scientists, politicians, aspiring politicians and ordinary men and women who made room for me at the pub. They showed me their land. They told me their stories. They offered me coffee and lunch at their kitchen tables. They patiently answered my questions, and then they referred me to their friends, so I could drive to their homes and ask them more questions. This generosity is the oxygen that good journalism depends on, and I am deeply grateful to have been on the receiving end. Washington State lawmakers have taken a major step toward offering free or reduced college tuition using funds from businesses there, including Amazon and Microsoft, in a move that is being applauded by policy analysts for its innovation and reach. Last week, state lawmakers passed the Workforce Education Investment Act, which would raise almost $1 billion over a four-year period with a surcharge on companies that employ highly skilled workers, like accounting, engineering, architecture and consulting firms, and the technology behemoths that operate in the state. The bill, which is before Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat, would effectively provide free or reduced tuition for lower- and middle-income students attending community colleges and public institutions, provide new funding for strapped community colleges and eliminate wait lists for financial aid beginning in 2020. Its a game changer for the state, said Michael Meotti, the executive director of the Washington Student Achievement Council, a state agency that focuses on education. The W.H.O. also wants to shift to immunizing as many people in each target area as possible, instead of relying solely on its current tactic: ring vaccinating the immediate contacts of each known case, along with health care workers. [Like the Science Times page on Facebook. | Sign up for the Science Times newsletter.] Before such a change is made, the Congolese government must accept the recommendations made Tuesday by a W.H.O. panel of experts. Dr. Jean-Jacques Muyembe, who heads Congos ethical review board, welcomed the recommendations and said he would work to see them implemented quickly. Demand for the vaccine is increasing in the affected districts of eastern Congo, Dr. Muyembe said. There have been contradictory reports from the area about acceptance of the vaccine. Some observers said villagers and even health workers were rejecting the vaccine. Others said villagers were angry that the vaccine was given only to contacts of victims when everyone was afraid of the infection. According to the W.H.O., more than 111,000 people have been vaccinated against Ebola since the outbreak began in August. To stretch supplies of the vaccine, made by Merck and known as rVSV-ZEBOV, the agency recommended switching to smaller doses. A brother, sister and niece of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on Wednesday chastised him for campaigning against vaccines, saying he has been disseminating dangerous misinformation that discourages immunization even as measles spreads throughout the United States. They declared that they love him and praised his work to protect the environment. However, on vaccines he is wrong, they wrote in a column published in Politico under the headline RFK Jr. Is Our Brother and Uncle. Hes Tragically Wrong About Vaccines. Mr. Kennedys sister, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, a former lieutenant governor of Maryland; his brother, Joseph P. Kennedy II, a former Massachusetts congressman; and his niece, Maeve Kennedy McKean, executive director of Georgetown Universitys Global Health Initiatives, criticized him for participating in social media campaigns that have stoked fear and mistrust of vaccines and for attacking public health institutions seeking to stem the spread of infectious diseases. Mr. Kennedy, an attorney, author and environmental activist, said in a statement: I am not anti vaccine. I want safe vaccines with robust safety testing. How are parenting responsibilities divided in your home? Who makes sure the children get up in the morning and are dressed for school? Which parent does the cooking? The cleaning? The lawn mowing? Vacation planning? Who helps with homework and school applications? Is there equality in your home? Or is there still an unequal division of labor? In What Good Dads Get Away With, Darcy Lockman writes: When my husband and I became parents a decade ago, we were not prepared for the ways in which sexism was about to express itself in our relationship. Like me, he was enthralled by our daughters. Like him, I worked outside the home. And yet I was the one who found myself in charge of managing the details of our childrens lives. Too often Id spend frantic days looking for spring break child care only to hear him ask, Oh, theres no school tomorrow? Or wed arrive home late with two tired kids, and instead of spearheading their nighttime routine hed disappear to brush his own teeth. Unless I pointed out these lapses (which hell tell you I often did, and Ill tell you I often did not), he was unaware. Weve all heard this story before. Thinking about my own relationship, and watching the other couples I knew, I kept wondering: Why is this still happening? The optimistic tale of the modern, involved dad has been greatly exaggerated. The amount of child care men performed rose throughout the 1980s and 90s, but then began to level off without ever reaching parity. Mothers still shoulder 65 percent of child-care work. In academic journals, family researchers caution that the culture of fatherhood has changed more than fathers actual behavior. Sociologists attribute the discrepancy between mothers expectations and reality to a largely successful male resistance. This resistance is not being led by socially conservative men, whose like-minded wives often explicitly agree to take the lead in the home. It is happening, instead, with relatively progressive couples, and it takes many women who thought their partners had made a prenatal commitment to equal parenting by surprise. Why are their partners failing to pitch in more? The Opinion essay continues: While interviewing working parents for a book on parenthood, I spoke with one dad in Vermont who said: The expectation among my male friends is still that they will have the life they had before having kids. My dad has never cooked a meal. Ive strayed from that. But subconsciously, the thing that makes you motivationally step up and do something when youre not being asked he trailed off, and then said: I have justifications. Its a cop-out. Take love out of the equation and focus on the workplace, and its clear how this plays out. Studies show that male employees sit back while their female co-workers perform the tasks that dont lead to promotion. In a series of lab studies, the economists Lise Vesterlund, Linda Babcock and Maria Recalde and the organizational behaviorist Laurie Weingart found that in coed groups, women are 50 percent more likely than men to volunteer to take on work that no one else wants to do. But in all-male groups, the men volunteer just as readily. The essay concludes: All this comes at a cost to womens well-being, as mothers forgo leisure time, professional ambitions and sleep. Wives who view their household responsibilities as unjust are more likely to suffer from depression than those who do not, one study says. When their children are young, employed women (but not men) take a hit to their health as well as to their earnings and the latter never recovers. Child-care imbalances also tank relationship happiness, especially in the early years of parenthood. Division of labor in the home is one of the most important gender-equity issues of our time. Yet at the current rate of change, MenCare, a group that promotes equal involvement in caregiving, estimates that it will be about 75 more years before men worldwide assume half of the unpaid work that domesticity requires. If anything is going to change, men have to stop resisting. Gendered parenting is kept alive by the unacknowledged power bestowed upon men in a world that values their needs, comforts and desires more than womens. Its up to fathers to cop to this, rather than to cop out. Students, read the entire article, then tell us: How do your parents share the responsibilities of parenting? How equal is the division of labor? Are you happy with the present arrangement? Or would you want your parents to shift certain responsibilities? Which ones and why? The author provides many examples of an unequal division of labor in her home, such as planning vacations, helping with homework and maintaining bedtime routines. Which examples most relate to your experiences? Ms. Lockman says that division of labor in the home is one of the most important equity issues of our time. Do you agree? How important is this issue to you? In a related article, How Same-Sex Couples Divide Chores, and What It Reveals About Modern Parenting, Claire Cain Miller writes: Same-sex couples, research has consistently found, divide up chores more equally. But recent research has uncovered a twist. When gay and lesbian couples have children, they often begin to divide things as heterosexual couples do, according to new data for larger, more representative samples of the gay population. Though the couples are still more equitable, one partner often has higher earnings, and one a greater share of household chores and child care. It shows these roles are not just about gender: Work and much of society are still built for single-earner families. Once you have children, it starts to almost pressure the couple into this kind of division of labor, and were seeing this now even in same-sex couples, said Robert-Jay Green, professor emeritus at the California School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco. Circumstances conspire on every level to get you to fall back in this traditional role. What does this article add to your perspective on imbalances in parenting? Do you agree that our society reinforces inequalities in the home? If yes, what do you think could be done on a societal level to promote greater equality? The author laments that it may be 75 more years before men worldwide assume half of the unpaid work that domesticity requires. Do you agree? Disagree? Do you think things will eventually change? If so, when? How do you see yourself sharing the responsibilities of parenting if you have a family? Further Resources: How I Solved the Gender Labor Imbalance Mom: The Designated Worrier [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] Can New York City and Amazon get along? On Tuesday, the internet giant unveiled its first New York location for Amazon Go, its cashierless, brick-and-mortar convenience store concept that has already been tested in three other cities. It might have otherwise been a humdrum opening, were it not for recent history: Amazon and the city went through a messy and public breakup in February, when the company abandoned plans to build a sprawling campus in Queens after many New Yorkers criticized a deal that would have allowed the company to benefit from nearly $3 billion in government incentives. Now, Amazon is back, hoping that a futuristic concept it has tried out in cities such as Seattle, San Francisco and Chicago will thrive in New York, a singular metropolis where customers are notoriously brusque, shoplifting is common and progressive activists, union leaders and small businesses remain skeptical of the companys motives. [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] The smoke awakened the neighbors first not the sight of thick, gray-black clouds that swelled outside apartment 5G, but the smell. Then there were the sounds in the quiet of the night: a noise like an explosion, the crackling of glass as windows flew out and the voices of children, screaming. A fire that officials said apparently began on the kitchen stove was racing through the three-bedroom apartment in Harlem. Six people were trapped inside. None of them would survive. You could hear when they would say, Mom, said Jennifer Nunn-Stanley, who lives across the street and heard the shouts coming from inside the burning building. The Fire Department sent 100 firefighters to the site of the blaze, at 2441 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Boulevard at 142nd Street, a 109-year-old building run by the New York City Housing Authority. But the fire commissioner, Daniel A. Nigro, said that when firefighters reached the apartment on the fifth floor, The fire met them at the front door. He faces federal racketeering and sex-trafficking charges. During the opening statements at his trial, prosecutors said that the women in the D.O.S. society were called slaves, and that Mr. Raniere and others pressured them into handing over deeds to their homes, bank account information and their deepest, darkest secrets. With that leverage, prosecutors said, Mr. Raniere then coerced women into sex and enriched himself. One of his victims, they said, was a 15-year-old girl. [The defendant said he was a mentor, but he was a predator: Read more from the sex cult trial.] How were women lured into the secret society? According to former members interviewed by The Times, Mr. Raniere told recruits that they had to overcome weaknesses common to women: an overemotional nature, a failure to keep promises and an embrace of the role of victim. Submission and obedience were said to be the solution to achieve those goals, several women said. [Why did people follow a guru who now stands accused of sex trafficking?] Ms. Mack, who told a judge last month that she first joined Nxivm to find purpose, pleaded guilty to charges related to her role in recruiting women into the secretive D.O.S. group. It was within this inner group that women were branded. What is Mr. Ranieres defense? Free will. Mr. Ranieres lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, said his client was trying to help the members of Nxivm reach their personal goals and had never forced them to do anything against their will. Sylvie, who grew up in Britain, came to the United States when she was 18 and lived on a farm where she took care of horses belonging to Clare Bronfman, the Seagrams liquor heiress who was a high-ranking member of Nxivm. Over the next decade the group exerted a pull on her, according to her testimony. At one point, she said, Mr. Raniere suggested she leave a job she had obtained with Goldman Sachs. Ms. Bronfman also told her she would have to quit a running club she was part of. Sylvie testified that she joined a Nxivm-related group called Jness that she said espoused, among other things, that women were victimizers who liked to pose as victims. I started to hate the fact that I was a woman, she said. By the time Sylvie was invited to join D.O.S. the initials are an acronym for a Latin phrase that roughly translates to Lord/Master of the Obedient Female Companions she was eager to join, she testified. She thought it might help her improve as a person, she said, even though she had no idea what being part of the group would entail. She said she provided collateral in the form of a letter where she claimed to her parents that she was a prostitute. In her roughly two years with D.O.S., Sylvie said, she followed any directive given to her by Ms. Duran, including the order to recruit slaves of her own and obtain collateral from them. She was also compelled by Ms. Duran, she said, to provide additional collateral of her own, including a letter that gave Ms. Duran the power to say whether or not Sylvie could have children. Ms. Duran directed Sylvie to walk her dog, pick up her prescriptions and do her grocery shopping, she testified. She said Ms. Duran also gave her a necklace called a dog collar that was meant to symbolize their relationship and came with what was supposed to be an unbreakable clasp. [What you need to know to start the day: Get New York Today in your inbox.] The first trans-Atlantic flight? Lindbergh seems the obvious answer. But that would be wrong. Yes, Charles A. Lindbergh belongs in the history books for the first nonstop, solo flight across the Atlantic. But note the words nonstop and solo. Lindbergh was not the first aviator to cross the Atlantic Ocean. His record-setting achievement was flying to Europe alone in the cockpit without stopping. So, who got there first? Six Navy and Coast Guard crewmen in 1919, eight years before him. Their mammoth seaplane, known as the NC-4, left Rockaway Beach in Queens 100 years ago Wednesday. Art Kunkin, who captured the swirling discontent and creativity of the emerging counterculture in 1964 when he founded The Los Angeles Free Press, one of the first and most successful of the underground newspapers that appeared in those authority-defying times, died on April 30 in Joshua Tree, Calif. He was 91. His daughter Anna Kunkin confirmed his death. Mr. Kunkins eclectic life included time as a machinist; explorations of socialism, Sufism and alchemy; and running a meditation school. But he was best known for The Freep, as his newspaper came to be called, a publication fueled by sex advertisements and featuring articles on subjects, like police oppression, the antiwar movement and rock n roll, that were not being well covered by the mainstream press. I felt that there was a new consciousness, a new culture that wasnt being expressed and that was being suppressed, Mr. Kunkin said in a 2007 video interview, explaining what he was trying to accomplish with the paper. With the help of his wife at the time, Abby Rubinstein, and others, he began the paper on a shoestring. The first issue was laid out on our dining room table, Anna Kunkin recalled in a telephone interview. Overlooked is a series of obituaries about remarkable people whose deaths, beginning in 1851, went unreported in The Times. The plan was daring, even risky : Convince the entire all-black student body to walk out of school and not return until the government gave them a bigger, better building one like the white students had. Yet if Barbara Johns, a 16-year-old student at Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, Va., was daunted, she did not show it as she announced the plan from the schools auditorium stage. Barbara would achieve more than she had hoped: She would help change the entire education system in the United States by taking part in one of five cases that would be consolidated into Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark 1954 Supreme Court case in which the justices unanimously ruled that racial segregation in schools was unconstitutional. The case Barbara would join, Davis v. County School Board of Prince Edward County, would not only have the largest group of plaintiffs; it would also be the only one that was led by students. John Lukacs, a maverick historian, prolific author and self-professed reactionary whose views on politics, populism and pop culture departed from those of doctrinaire liberals and conservatives alike, died on Monday at his home in Phoenixville, Pa. He was 95. The cause was heart failure, his daughter, Annemarie L. Cochrane, said. Mr. Lukacs (pronounced LOO-kuss) was a chronicler of modern Europe, a commentator on semantics and current events, and a romantic who lamented the vanished charm of the bourgeoisie. He lionized Winston Churchill (about whom he wrote an acclaimed study), and, while he unsurprisingly loathed Stalin and Hitler, he said, after tempering his characterization with the appropriate caveats, that the Fuhrer may have been the most popular revolutionary leader in the history of the modern world. A Hungarian refugee from Nazism and Soviet Communism, Mr. Lukacs ultimately found refuge at Chestnut Hill College, a small Roman Catholic institution, originally just for women, in a bucolic corner of Philadelphia. He taught there for 47 years. John Wilson, a professor emeritus at Hillsdale College in Michigan, wrote in The American Conservative in 2013 that through 35 books and countless articles, essays and reviews, Mr. Lukacs influenced and inspired (and sometimes infuriated) three generations of accomplished historians despite never having taught at prestigious universities, where he could sequester graduate students and make disciples of them. He also designed for celebrities like Beyonce, Kim Kardashian, Halle Berry and Viola Davis. But the bulk of his business was aimed at ordinary consumers, who sought his ready-to-wear pieces even if some critics were lukewarm about them. BCBG stands for bon chic, bon genre, a French slang phrase that roughly translates as good style, good attitude, a philosophy Mr. Azria liked to live by in the face of criticism. Writing in 2008 about designers like Mr. Azria, Ruth La Ferla of The New York Times said his collections may not break new ground, but as he likes to point out, they sell at several hundred BCBG boutiques in the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, as well as at department stores like Bloomingdales and Saks. She added, To call them commercial is no insult, he said. Its a fact. In 1996, BCBG became one of a handful of commercial brands to introduce collections at New York Fashion Week. Critics were concerned that such clothing would not measure up to more expensive competitors, but, as Constance C. R. White wrote in a review in The Times, BCBG, by Max Azria, displayed enough muscle to turn back the naysayers. He made his point, she continued, with a sweeping gray maxi-coat with epaulets, flat-front pants and melange turtleneck; a brown and beige wide-lapel jacket with black fur collar; a black suede belted shirt jacket and black denim bell-bottom pants with white topstitching tracing a line down the back of the leg; and languid jersey evening dresses, including a plunging V-neck topped with a fur-collared greatcoat. Nearly half of black children in Mississippi are in families living below the poverty line, compared with just 17 percent of white children. Yet only 8 percent of families living in poverty participate in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. For six years, Springboard to Opportunities has run a range of programs, like after-school tutoring for children and job-readiness support for their parents. Our two-generation approach has been measurably successful, said Aisha Nyandoro, the executive director. Indeed, 76 percent of adults who went through the program went back to school or found a job. But they also consistently told me, What we really need in order to reach our goals is cash, Ms. Nyandoro said. Ms. Nyandoro had heard about guaranteed income at a conference and realized it might be a way of responding to their call. She teamed up with the Economic Security Project, network devoted to furthering the conversation on guaranteed income. The leadership team there, including the philanthropist Chris Hughes, who has become one of guaranteed incomes most vocal proponents, supported a task force of mothers in thinking about the best structure for the Magnolia Mothers Trust. The broader conversation about guaranteed income often focuses on the rise of artificial intelligence and the inevitable loss of jobs that will follow. That is the hook for many in the tech world. But another set of champions isnt looking forward as much as back. The Movement for Black Lives, a network that includes Black Lives Matter, has endorsed a guaranteed-income proposal called Universal PLUS Basic Income. It would provide a modest income to everyone, funded by divestment from the prison system, with a prorated additional amount for African-Americans. In other words, guaranteed income could be a plausible policy akin to reparations. But if the cash is intended to heal, those who design its distribution need to reduce the possibility of unintended side effects. Annie Lowery points out in her 2018 book Give People Money that the idea of guaranteed income may be bipartisan, but the implementation is certainly not. She wrote, The ends and means would never end up pleasing both sides of the aisle. The average annual income of the people whom Springboard to Opportunities works with is $11,030. All of them receive government benefits, so they were understandably concerned: Would a cash transfer of this nature reduce those benefits? And if so, by how much? Springboard worked with an economist to run the most likely scenarios, which is how they landed on $1,000 a month, but there were still plenty of unknowns. Ms. Nyandoro told interested residents: You know better than anybody what additional income does to your benefits. You make an informed decision about whether this is the right thing for your family. Since coming to power in 2014, Narendra Modi, the prime minister of India, has assiduously centralized and personalized power. His critics often refer to his term in office as an undeclared emergency. The phrase evokes comparison with the period between June 1975 and March 1977 when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi suspended constitutional rights and imposed her authoritarian will on the polity after claiming that India needed the shock treatment to combat its enemies. That dark period, which saw Mrs. Gandhi assume extraordinary powers, jail opposition leaders and silence the press, is known in India as the Emergency. Mr. Modi has ruled India with the iron will reminiscent of Mrs. Gandhi. He brooks no dissent and projects the personality cult of a strong Hindu nationalist warrior combating the nations internal and external enemies with surgical strikes. His supporters vociferously endorse this cult and throng his campaign events wearing Modi masks. The results of the continuing Indian elections on May 23 will reveal whether India will endorse Mr. Modi or spurn him as they did Mrs. Gandhi in the 1977 elections after the Emergency. Mrs. Gandhi was the last leader who even remotely achieved the popularity and authority in Indian politics presently enjoyed by Mr. Modi. She came to power two years after the death of her father, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who led India from its independence in 1947 until his death in 1964. As Mr. Nehrus only child and confidante during his 17 years in office, Mrs. Gandhi came to know leaders and intellectuals around the world. Unlike Mr. Modi, she was secular, cosmopolitan, spoke several languages and took a keen interest in the arts. To judge by that, youd never know that she out-raised Buttigieg by $5 million in the first quarter of the year or that her second CNN town hall had the most viewership among a sequence of five consecutive CNN town halls the other four showcased Buttigieg, Warren, Sanders and Amy Klobuchar on the same night. You wouldnt know that in a Morning Consult poll published on Monday, her support from 7 percent of Democratic voters nationwide put her one percentage point above Buttigieg and two above ORourke. (She trailed the third-place finisher, Warren, by one point; Joe Biden had the lead with 40 and Sanders was second with 19.) In a Harvard-Harris poll published on Friday, Harris took third place, trailing only Biden and Sanders. Her campaign, then, is a test not only of her mettle but of our biases and receptiveness. In terms of the latter, much of the electability chatter of the last few weeks pivots explicitly or implicitly on the assumption that she and Warren would be at a disadvantage in the Rust Belt because white male voters would be less open to them than to Biden or Sanders. She addressed that head-on in a series of appearances in the Midwest over recent days, noting that there are plenty of minority voters in Midwestern cities. One of her supporters, Bakari Sellers, a former South Carolina state representative, reminded Politico: The only Democratic candidate to win the presidency in the last two decades was a black guy. Sellers also said that weve allowed working class to enter our lexicon and only mean white working class and totally disregard a whole other swath of voters. In the 2016 election, he added, What we saw in Milwaukee, in Detroit and Philadelphia we lost the presidency where we probably could have focused on those working-class voters of color just a little bit more. Be that as it may, Harris has important adjustments to make. She should take firmer positions, even at the risk of angering some voters. It signals character and strength, and sometimes the best way to win is to be willing to lose. She also needs to find better ways to draw on her life story and let voters in. One of the keys to Buttigiegs surprising emergence as a top-tier candidate is how lavishly he doles out so much of himself: his military service, his marriage to another man, his linguistic dexterity, his Christianity, his Midwestern roots and more. It allows voters many different points of connection and establishes him as more multi-dimensionally human than politicians usually seem to be. But theres little to no sign that Buttigieg has made a meaningful connection with black voters, who play a profoundly important part in the Democratic Party and whose turnout in a general election could be the difference between an end to Donald Trumps presidency or four more years. Thats Buttigiegs great challenge, one complicated by complaints that he was insufficiently sensitive to people of color as mayor of South Bend, Ind. As the Democratic candidates debate whether current and former prisoners should be allowed to vote, its worth recalling that many other countries make it easy for incarcerated people to do it. Ive represented the United States throughout the world as an international elections monitor, visiting polling stations, talking to elections officials and helping international teams assess whether elections are free and fair. The United States is an outlier. Its suppression of voting rights for more than 6.1 million people with current or former felony convictions violates human rights and weakens our democracy. I wish our lawmakers who wrongly approve of this could see what Ive seen especially the Florida Republicans who just passed a bill undercutting a constitutional amendment restoring the franchise for people with former felony convictions. To the Editor: Re Joe Biden and the Party of Davos (column, May 4): Roger Cohen recycles Steve Bannons Party of Davos cliche. There is no Party of Davos. The World Economic Forums annual meeting in Switzerland brings together environmentalists and labor leaders alongside bankers, business executives and politicians. The forums research and its economic and cultural prescriptions argue for an end to the unjust and unsustainable policies that are placing our world and economic system under grave threat. In 1996 , a time when the global economy was gearing up for one of the most sustained periods of growth and integration in history, the World Economic Forum first raised the specter of income inequality in an article published in The International Herald Tribune. Leaders come to Davos to understand how the world is changing and to help the world adapt to change. Joe Biden understood this in 2016 when he launched his cancer moonshot there. Others are using the same platform to promote inclusive economic policies, fairer taxation systems, even plastic-free oceans. These dont serve just the interests of the few; they serve the interests of all of us. If Mr. Cohen is worried about the future, he should stand up for the concerns we have in common. Oliver Cann Geneva The writer is head of strategic communications for the World Economic Forum. Mr. Trump infamously responded to the question whether he would accept a Hillary Clinton victory in 2016 with the line, I will tell you at the time. Of course, his audience understood the declarations real meaning perfectly well. Seventy percent of Trump supporters believed that had the Democratic candidate been declared victorious, the vote must have been rigged. That kind of number is bad news for any democracy. Not because citizens must blindly accept all results voter suppression, namely of racial minorities, is a reality in parts of the United States but because populists systematically sow distrust of existing institutions. Germanys far-right populist party, Alternative for Germany, has for years been demanding election observers, insinuating that there are serious problems at polling stations though without ever specifying them. And Mr. Trump, lest we forget, never actually accepted defeat in the popular vote in 2016, claiming that millions of illegal votes had to be subtracted from the official tally. There is a crucial difference between, on the one hand, someone who criticizes an election system on account of gerrymandering, the influence of dark money or any other empirically verifiable factor, and on the other, a populist loser whose only real complaint is It must be rotten because I didnt win. Even when authoritarian populists themselves have governed for years (and in all likelihood, rigged the system in their favor), they have no trouble finding reasons an election failed to give the real majority a chance to express itself. Contrary to the naive view that once in power, populists have to cease criticizing the establishment (for they themselves are now the establishment), they always fall back on accusing shadowy international elites or other powerful outsiders of manipulating the outcome. This is somewhat easier to do in countries like Hungary and Turkey than in the United States. But even in the worlds most powerful nation, Mr. Trump, during the last presidential election, already experimented with an ad that portrayed global special interests (who all happened to be Jewish) as evil forces behind Mrs. Clintons campaign. So can nothing be done? One obvious way forward is to defeat populists with such overwhelming majorities that charges of fraud will just seem too far-fetched. Another is to involve international election monitors even more closely, though that constitutes no guarantee that populists will accept the outcome. A more cynical but alas, perhaps sometimes necessary solution is to offer populist losers a way out such that they do not lose everything if they lose a vote. Obviously, for kleptocrats, an election defeat can pose an existential danger when they feel that there is no option between the presidents palace and prison. Letting them (and at least some of their money and their extended political families) go is an extremely unappealing prospect, even if it does not come with an official exoneration. But on occasion it might be a price worth paying to restore or protect democracy. Jan-Werner Muller is a professor of politics at Princeton University and the author of What is Populism?, among other books. The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. Wed like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips. And heres our email: letters@nytimes.com. Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook, Twitter (@NYTopinion) and Instagram. Politicians fearful of the National Rifle Association have allowed the gun lobby to run amok so that America now has more guns than people, but there is still true heroism out there in the face of gun violence: students who rush shooters at the risk of their own lives. Lets celebrate, and mourn, a student named Kendrick Castillo, 18, just days away from graduating in Highlands Ranch, Colo., who on Tuesday helped save his classmates in English literature class from a gunman. Kendrick lunged at him, and he shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape, Nui Giasolli, a student in the classroom, told the Today show. Kendrick was killed, and eight other students were injured. At least three boys in the class one of them Brendan Bialy, who hopes to become a Marine tackled and disarmed the gunman . They were very heroic, Nui said. Bravo as well to the police officers who arrived within two minutes of the shooting and seized the two attackers. This article is part of David Leonhardts newsletter. You can sign up here to receive it each weekday. Uber and Lyft drivers are going on strike today, and I encourage you to honor their strike by not using the apps. In cities around the world, thousands of drivers will be striking for higher pay, better benefits and more say in the companies policies. The strike is timed to Ubers initial public offering, scheduled for Friday. Ubers I.P.O. will make millions for its top executives and big investors, much as Lyfts I.P.O. in March did, but many drivers for the two companies dont even earn middle-class wages. My colleague Farhad Manjoo has called Ubers offering a moral stain on Silicon Valley. Perhaps nowhere was Anderson more despised than in his hometown, Clyde. The towns head librarian burned copies of his book, and for many years, any patron of the Clyde Public Library who requested it was met with a scowl as she fumbled for the key to a locked closet where she stored, together with other bad books, a single copy that had somehow escaped the flames. Writing in his memoirs two decades later, Anderson recalled that after Winesburg came out, for weeks and months, my mail was loaded with letters calling me filthy, an opener of sewers. The criticism, he said, made me ill. A hundred years on, its difficult to see what all the fuss was about. No modern reader would blush at Andersons treatment of sex, chaste by contemporary standards. Winesburg owes its longevity not to shock value but to how perfectly it captured a society on the brink of colossal change. Decades after the books publication, Waldo Frank, who had printed some of the early Winesburg stories in his magazine, The Seven Arts, remarked that Anderson had undertaken to describe a Mid-American world that already then was a generation dead. Indeed, Winesburg with its dirt roads, horses and gas lights, its farmers, shopkeepers and artisans represented a rural culture soon to be swept by unprecedented social and technological ferment. When the superintendent of the United States census declared the American frontier closed in 1890, two-thirds of Americans still resided in small farm towns not unlike Winesburg. But by 1920, for the first time in the nations history, the majority of Americans were living in urban areas. A number of factors contributed to this demographic shift, including a boom in American industry during World War I, which drew millions of workers to cities in search of jobs, large numbers of immigrants arriving from Eastern and Southern Europe, and the Great Migration of nearly half a million African-Americans from the South (including a staggering 10.4 percent of the combined black population of Alabama and Mississippi) to cities in the Midwest and the West and along the Eastern Seaboard. At the same time, daily life was speeding up. In 1900 the horse remained the primary means of travel, and fewer than 14,000 automobiles which most people viewed as playthings of the rich bumped along the nations rutted roads; by 1920 there were nine million. Passenger trains more than doubled their ridership and tripled the number of miles traveled in the decade before the 1920 census, helping to make the railroads the countrys largest industry and biggest employer. Electric streetcars, first deployed in 1888, were now rumbling through thousands of towns and cities, heralding the age of the commuter. The noise and filth of urban living, helped along by the prejudices of affluent city dwellers seeking to escape growing racial and ethnic diversity downtown, led to the advent of streetcar suburbs, whose quiet, tree-lined avenues mimicked the small-town aesthetic of days gone by. Hudson, N.Y. | $865,000 A 1790s neo-Classical-style house with three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms In the 19th century, this house belonged to the family of Job B. Coffin, a Hudson alderman. It is among the historic properties that line Union Street, a block from Warren Street, the Columbia County citys main commercial thoroughfare. An Amtrak station with direct service to Manhattan is less than five minutes away on foot; the trip south takes two hours. Size: 3,000 square feet Price per square foot: $288 Indoors: A hand-carved front door topped by a row of rectangular glass panes opens to a stair hall with original wide-plank floors. The planks turn jumbo size in the front parlor, with its brick wood-burning fireplace and white-painted classical mantel, as well as in the formal dining room that follows (and on the second floor). An eat-in kitchen comes next. The main level also includes a bedroom, full bathroom, half bathroom and laundry room, as well as a multipurpose room off the kitchen. The upstairs master bedroom is connected to a dressing room with an interior walk-in closet and a bathroom with paneled wainscoting, a free-standing tub and a separate shower and water closet. On the opposite wall, a door leads to a double-height sitting room that resulted from opening up and finishing the gabled attic; it includes a wood-burning fireplace. This level also has a guest bedroom and bathroom. Imagine an animal that looks like a dinosaur, and you probably will not imagine a bat. But that may change. A team of paleontologists in China announced on Wednesday the discovery of a dinosaur that sported the same kinds of fleshy wings bats use to flit through the air. The dinosaur, Ambopteryx longibrachium, lived about 163 million years ago. When Min Wang, a vertebrate paleontologist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, first saw the fossil, which he and his team pulled out of Jurassic-age rocks in Liaoning Province in China, I thought it was a bird, he said. [Like the Science Times page on Facebook. | Sign up for the Science Times newsletter.] Birds evolved from dinosaurs, and so the two groups share many features. Dr. Wang assumed Ambopteryx was a bird because the animal sported relatively long forelimbs, just as modern birds do. But as his team carefully chipped away the rock surrounding the fossil over the course of about a year, distinctly dinosaurian features began to emerge. Ambopteryx, for one thing, had long fingers, a trait that birds lack. To scientists like Michael Snyder, chair of the genetics department at Stanford University, the future of medicine is data lots and lots of data. He and others predict that one day doctors wont just take your blood pressure and check your temperature. They will scrutinize your genome for risk factors and track tens of thousands of molecules active in your body. By doing so, the doctors of the future will identify diseases, and treat them, long before symptoms appear. The approach has a number of critics, who say it will never be cost-effective and will instead lead to wild overtreatment of anxious patients. In the letter summarizing their claims, the women said they had faced retaliation since they were involved in the December protest. The workers said they had received difficult work assignments and improper warnings that could lead to firing. Amazon also had a culture of surveillance after the protest, Ms. Azmi said. Muslim Advocates has withheld the womens names from the public, saying they fear further retaliation. One of the women agreed to be interviewed on the condition of anonymity. In the interview, the worker said that she had seen her manager looking at social media of the protests, and that he had then commented he noticed she had participated. Another time, a different manager took a photograph of her on his personal phone while she was working, she said, adding that when she complained, management played down her concerns. According to the letter, one of the other women has had her everyday conversations repeatedly video recorded by her supervisors. There is zero tolerance for retaliation in the workplace, Ms. Alfred, the Amazon spokeswoman, said. We take any reports of retaliation seriously and look into all claims made by our employees. Amazon gives the workers paid breaks to pray up to 20 minutes, as required by state law, but the employees are still responsible for maintaining the same rate, or how many items they must pack in an hour. Ms. Alfred said workers could take longer prayer breaks without pay, for which productivity expectations would be adjusted. Missing the rate can lead to write-ups and firing. The women said they and other Muslim workers feared taking time to pray, making it a hostile environment to be Muslim. How do New York Times journalists use technology in their jobs and in their personal lives? Raymond Zhong, a technology reporter based in Beijing, discussed the tech hes using. What are your most important tech tools for reporting in China? The Chinese internet is like the small-town setting of a crime novel: Things are mysteriously disappearing from it all the time. Social media posts vanish. News and blog articles are taken down. Sensitive bits are excised from videos. You cant always predict what will be removed, either by censors or by a regular person starting to have second thoughts about his or her own unfiltered utterance. Even pages on the websites of government agencies and major corporations have a way of quietly falling into black holes. Thats why a Google Chrome extension called Full Page Screen Capture is invaluable for internet research in China. With one click, I get a screen shot of an entire page, top to bottom. An embarrassingly large share of the files on my laptop are PDFs generated this way. I only wish a similar function were built into my iPhone, as it is on Huawei handsets. LONDON Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday made a blistering attack against China as he stepped up pressure on Britain, warning that American intelligence sharing could be risked by the involvement of a Chinese company in a new British telecommunications network. Speaking in London, Mr. Pompeo argued that China posed such a range of economic and security threats that the world now faced a new kind of challenge, an authoritarian regime thats integrated economically into the West. China steals intellectual property for military purposes, he said. It wants to dominate A.I., space technology, ballistic missiles and many other areas. The question on the table in Britain is whether the government should allow Huawei, a Chinese company considered a security risk by the United States, to help build some of the next-generation, 5G cellular network in Britain. But the strikes were largely muted. At La Guardia Airport in New York on Wednesday morning, cars driving for Uber and Lyft picked up passengers, and one airport worker said the flow of for-hire cars was typical for the time of day. Most drivers interviewed said they were either unaware of the strike or unable to participate because they needed to earn money. At the heart of the drivers frustration is their status as independent contractors, not full-time workers. Ride-hailing companies argue that drivers prefer the flexible schedule of a freelancer. But drivers lack full-time benefits like health care and have said they have little control over their wages because the companies set the fares and take a cut of the fees they earn from rides. In Melbourne, Australia, about 30 protesters gathered near an Uber facility, holding signs that said, On-demand workers demand a living wage, and chanting: Uber, Uber, you must listen. We will break your algorithm! Their complaints included falling pay, long hours and a lack of sick leave. [Get the Bits newsletter for the latest from Silicon Valley and the technology industry.] The strikes were timed right before Ubers public offering, with the company set to start trading its shares on the stock market on Friday. Uber is the biggest of a generation of technology start-ups that base their businesses on smartphones and use so-called gig workers. The company is expected to be valued at more than $80 billion in its I.P.O., and its founders and investors are set to reap billions of dollars in wealth. But that windfall will largely skip the drivers. Although Uber has said it intends to award cash bonuses to more than 1.1 million drivers with those in the United States having the option to buy the companys stock in the I.P.O. drivers have called that a fig leaf. They said the wealth being gained by top executives and private investors had prompted the action on Wednesday. Our position is just simply that the unborn child is a person, and the bill goes directly to that, Mr. Wingo said. Courts can do and have done many things good and bad, but we would hope and pray that they would go and that they would overturn Roe. The differing tactics of abortion opponents have been on display this year, as new abortion restrictions have sped through statehouses in the South and Midwest. On Tuesday, Gov. Brian Kemp of Georgia signed a so-called heartbeat bill that essentially bans abortions after six weeks of pregnancy a time when many women do not yet know they are pregnant. Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio have passed similar laws this year, and legislators in South Carolina and Tennessee considered comparable restrictions. Other states have taken more limited steps. Arkansas reduced by two weeks the time frame in which a woman can have an abortion legally. Missouri legislators have been considering an array of new limits. This legislative session could turn out to be the most harmful for womens health in decades, said Leana Wen, president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. The proposal in Alabama, where voters amended the state Constitution last year to declare that the public policy of this state is to recognize and support the sanctity of unborn life and the rights of unborn children, including the right to life, is the latest far-reaching measure with a reasonable prospect of passing. On Wednesday, a committee of the State Senate sent the measure on to the full Senate, after amending it to include exceptions for cases of rape or incest exceptions that were not in the version of the bill the State House passed. The House version allowed an exception only in the case of a serious health risk to the mother. Good morning. (Heres the sign-up, if you dont already get California Today by email.) Its been six months since two of the deadliest and most destructive fires in Californias history: the Woolsey Fire and the Camp Fire. As we saw on Monday, the natural world is showing signs of renewal after the Woolsey Fire. But many survivors especially those displaced by the devastating Camp Fire are still struggling. Nowhere is this more apparent than in and around Paradise, the Butte County town that the Camp Fire all but reduced to ash. On Tuesday, I spoke to Tara Morrow, one of the roughly 3,000 people who have been able to move back into the community, to see how things were going. Ms. Giasolli said the seniors stayed close to one another on Tuesday afternoon as SWAT teams cleared their school and then took them to a recreation center, where thousands of anxious parents waited to reunite with them. They hugged one another and broke down sobbing in groups as they learned that Mr. Castillo, also a senior, had died. Ms. Giasolli said the tight-knit class was now bonded by grief and shock. Were all shaken, she said. It happened right before our eyes. It happened right in our classroom. Were all hurting. We all did know these kids. We did know the shooter. We did know the people who got hurt. Were all hurting in our own ways. The suspects carried at least two handguns, and at least one of them had been restrained by a school security officer by the time law enforcement arrived, Sheriff Tony Spurlock of Douglas County said. Sheriff Spurlock said deputies had to force their way into the school because it was locked down. Law enforcement happened to choose a door that was near the shooting scene and quickly apprehended one of the suspects, who was identified as Devon Erickson, 18. The contrast between the tributes to Mr. Castillo, who was hailed as a hero by his friends, his community and Colorados governor, and the first court appearance of the two suspects could hardly have been starker. Mr. Erickson entered court on Wednesday wearing a red jumpsuit draped over his thin frame. His hair, dyed pink and blue, hung over his face. He sat between his lawyers with his head hanging, and he was shackled at both the wrists and the ankles. At times his body shook ever so slightly. The resident, Ellie Washtock, 38, had requested records in the case and had been in touch with Ms. OConnells family in the months before being fatally shot in January of this year. Washtock was not the only one who had searched for answers in Ms. OConnells case, which drew the scrutiny of state investigators. A 2013 examination by The New York Times and the PBS program Frontline raised questions about forensic evidence and found shortcomings in the St. Johns County Sheriffs Offices handling of the case, which involved one of its own deputies, Jeremy Banks. Ms. OConnell, a single mother, had been in the process of breaking up with Mr. Banks when she was found fatally shot, with his service weapon by her side. Both the sheriffs and the medical examiners offices for Putnam County declined to release records related to Washtocks death, citing a continuing investigation. It is unclear how Washtock, who had at various times identified as male and female, identified at the time of death. Although court records indicate a name change to Ellie in 2009, some who knew Washtock more recently knew Washtock as Eli. The Times is using Washtocks surname. Washtock, who had two children and a background in auto mechanics, moved to Florida from Wisconsin several years ago, according to Nick Uttech, a childhood friend. But some China experts were skeptical of rapprochement, saying both sides suffer from significant gaps in understanding after a falling out last week. Mr. Lius main priorities, they said, would be gathering information on how the countries could proceed and trying to forestall an increase in Mr. Trumps tariffs. I think a deal this week is highly unlikely, because the optics of it would be very difficult for China, said Eswar Prasad, the former head of the International Monetary Funds China division. The quickest path to an agreement would require the Chinese side to once again extend concessions it recently revoked. Mr. Trumps advisers were surprised by developments during talks last week in Beijing and in an exchange of documents over this past weekend, when Chinese negotiators called for changes in the language of all seven chapters of the 150-page draft agreement, people familiar with the negotiations said. The Chinese requests covered everything from agreements to protect American intellectual property to limiting Chinese subsidies and currency manipulation. While Mr. Liu was given the authority to negotiate the terms of the agreement with the United States, much of what was agreed to was still in relatively abstract terms, according to another person familiar with the talks. When the draft agreement was brought back to a wider group of Chinese officials, it was met with concerns that certain provisions agreed to in principle were in conflict with Chinese laws and would require legal changes that would be complicated or unacceptable to enact, this person said. In particular, the administration had wanted the text of the agreement to specify that some of the changes would be made in Chinese law. But Chinese negotiators insisted that the changes would be carried out through regulatory and administrative actions by the government, and not cemented in place through legislation in the National Peoples Congress. Foreign critics have long derided the National Peoples Congress, Chinas legislature, as a rubber stamp for the Communist Party. But moving legislation through the body requires time and political capital, and it could provoke unwelcome challenges from within senior policy circles. The Trump administrations refusal to roll back all of its existing tariffs on China also became an issue, prompting criticism within Chinese policy circles that negotiators were giving away too much in exchange for too little. [music playing] michael barbaro From The New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily. Today, the House Judiciary Committee votes to hold the attorney general in contempt of Congress for refusing to release the full Mueller report. Nothing is likely to happen. Why Congress is running out of options for how to investigate the president. Its Thursday, May 9. archived recording 1 Judiciary Committee will please come to order. [INAUDIBLE] being present michael barbaro Adam Liptak, what was the mood at this meeting of the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday? adam liptak It was tense. Chairman Nadler was very unhappy with the administrations general attitude toward complying with requests for information from Congress. archived recording (jerrold nadler) As a coequal branch of government, we must have access to the materials that we need to fulfill our constitutional responsibilities in a manner consistent with past precedent. adam liptak The House Democrats have, of course, asked for testimony from Bob Mueller the special counsel, William Barr the attorney general, Don McGahn, the former White House counsel and all kinds of documents, including tax returns and business records of President Trump, and most pointedly, at the moment the Mueller report and the documents underlying it. [music] archived recording (jerrold nadler) The Mueller report is no ordinary run of the mill document. It details significant misconduct involving the president, including his campaigns willingness and eagerness to accept help from a hostile foreign government, numerous misstatements, if not outright lies concerning those acts and 11 separate incidents of obstructive behavior by the president that more than 700 former prosecutors have told us warrant criminal indictment. If Congress is not entitled to the full unredacted Mueller report, one must wonder what document we would be entitled to. adam liptak And on the other side, a categorical refusal to cooperate at all by the executive branch. archived recording (donald trump) Well, were fighting all the subpoenas. Look, these arent like impartial people. The Democrats are trying to win 2020. adam liptak So there are these enormous requests from the house that have been met so far by the administration with a blanket refusal to engage, which legal scholars say is unprecedented. And then Wednesday morning, President Trump invoked executive privilege over the entire Mueller report and the documents underlying it, which, again, is a kind of maximalist position. archived recording (mike johnson) This is not about seeking the truth as weve heard this morning. Its about raw partisan politics. Our Democrat colleagues have weaponized our critical oversight responsibilities. And moving today to hold the A.G. in contempt is not only premature, unprecedented and unwarranted. Frankly, it is shameful. I think, we believe, the American people deserve better. adam liptak So what youre hearing at the hearing is the opening salvo in what looks to be quite a war between two branches of government. archived recording (jerrold nadler) Our fight is not just about the Mueller report. Our fight is about defending the rights of Congress as an independent branch to hold the president, any president accountable. This is unprecedented. If allowed to go unchecked, this obstruction means the end of congressional oversight. michael barbaro Adam, what does it mean for the president to assert executive privilege in the way that he did on Wednesday? adam liptak So executive privilege is kind of a mushy concept. Its not in the Constitution, but the Supreme Court has said that there are at least some kinds of things that the president is allowed to keep secret, typically, his consultations with his closest staff so he can get candid advice, stuff relating to national security to his duties as commander in chief. Theres a zone of privacy the president has, even against a legitimate request from Congress. But here, in applying it to the Mueller report, which doesnt fit neatly with any of the things Ive just sketched out, but was in fact an investigation commission to be an investigation of the president, executive privilege doesnt fit that concept very neatly at all. Now their assertion here was tentative. They called it protective. They say they may still come back, so theres some play in the joints and some creativity going on. But the general attitude is and this is consistent with what the Trump administration has been saying in all kinds of settings is that you, Congress, get nothing. michael barbaro And so the administration is basically arguing that this concept of executive privilege applies not just to private conversations that the president has, advice hes given, that kind of thing, but basically to anything, at this point, related to the Russia investigation that Congress might want get its hands on. adam liptak More than that. Its basic position is maximalist, totalist, that whatever we know and you dont know, we can keep from you and were allowed to keep secrets. michael barbaro Even if its requested by subpoena. adam liptak Thats their position. archived recording (sarah sanders) Chairman Nadler is asking the attorney general of the United States to break the law and commit a crime by releasing information that he knows he has no legal authority to have. Its truly outrageous and absurd what the chairman is doing, and he should be embarrassed that hes behaving this way. adam liptak They think these subpoenas are illegitimate tools of political harassment and not consistent with what Congress ordinarily issues subpoenas for, which is to help it carry out its constitutional responsibilities. And why Chairman Nadler is so unhappy is because he can see that we are on the precipice of a constitutional impasse, where Congress tries to do what it needs to do, which is to gather information to fulfill its responsibilities, and is being met with a wholesale Stonewall from a presidential administration. And that, as far as I can tell, is unprecedented. michael barbaro You keep using that word, unprecedented. Just how unusual is it for any White House to basically put up a wall when it comes to a broad set of issues and say youre just not getting anything from us when it comes to this subject? adam liptak Skirmishes between Congress and presidential administrations are commonplace. But as far as an administration saying, theres no subpoena were going to comply with, were going to fight all the subpoenas, you get nothing, that seems to me unknown in the history of the United States. michael barbaro O.K., so once executive privilege is invoked in this way, and basically the Trump administration walls off all things Russia, Mueller and this entire episode from Congress and its investigations, what are the options for Democrats if they want to get all the things that theyre asking for: The unredacted Mueller report; compelling Don McGahn, the former White House counsel, to testify; forcing Bob Mueller to come before these committees; getting the Treasury Department to give up the presidents tax returns; to carry out all these investigations that it wants to. How does it now do that in the face of this kind of resistance? adam liptak So the Democrats have four basic options. Back in the day, what they would do is send the Sergeant at Arms and detain the person they want to testify and not let him out of the pokey (MICHAEL LAUGHS) Presumably in the basement of the Capitol until theyre prepared to testify, but that method has not been used since 1935. michael barbaro And just to be clear, Adam, this is not a reference to your generation, but the pokey is the prison. adam liptak (LAUGHS) Yeah, the pokey is a detention cell, yes. michael barbaro Got it. O.K. So thats number one, is extremely unlikely. adam liptak I dont see that happening. michael barbaro O.K., so whats the second option? adam liptak So the second option is to hold a witness in contempt and thats what the Judiciary Committee did on Wednesday to Attorney General Barr. They said that not turning over the Mueller report violated a legitimate subpoena and constituted contempt. The full House is likely to vote the same way. And then the next step, ordinarily, is to go to the Justice Department and say, hey a crimes been committed, you guys should please prosecute the witness for criminal contempt. michael barbaro But wait, thats complicated, because Bill Barr runs the Justice Department. adam liptak Yeah, so thats an interesting idea. But its never going to happen, right? Because D.O.J. and this is not a Trump D.O.J. idea only, this has happened in many earlier administrations takes the view that its not going to cooperate in a congressional request to try to go after executive branch officials for contempt. michael barbaro So if the Department of Justice refuses to prosecute Barr, as is likely in this option, then what can Democrats do to get the unredacted report and everything else that it wants? adam liptak It can go to court itself. It can file a civil lawsuit, ask a judge to order the executive branch or the witness to comply and that could result in a contempt of court citation, and the courts will make judgments about whos right. michael barbaro And what argument would Congress make and this third option if they go to court? adam liptak Congress would say and would have a lot of Supreme Court precedent supporting it that its right to information is quite broad. The Supreme Court has repeatedly said that Congress cant do its job well without access to information. It cant legislate wisely. It cant perform its oversight responsibilities. As a general matter, the starting proposition is that Congress is entitled to information. It supervises, in many respects, the executive branch. The executive branch executes what Congress tells it to. So in the ordinary scheme of things, absent some privilege or other good argument, Congress does and should win usually. michael barbaro So in this argument, Congress would be rejecting the idea, proposed by the Trump administration, that under executive privilege it can keep all of these matters secret, because it will argue Congress has this broad authority to get this information to do its oversight work. adam liptak Right. And we know from the Nixon tapes case, that executive privilege exists. That was the case, of course, where President Nixon invoked executive privilege to try to withhold tapes of himself in the Oval Office talking to aides from a criminal inquiry. The court said, yes, thats right, such a thing exists, but its not powerful enough in this case to allow you to withhold those tapes from a criminal inquiry. But its not categorical. Its a balancing test, and you take account of why the information was sought, you take account of why the administration thinks something needs to be kept secret and you do some balancing. And while its hard to predict what any court will do, and it might well go to the Supreme Court, Congress starts out with the better of the argument most of the time. michael barbaro Because of its place in the Constitution. adam liptak Yes, and because the Court has recognized over and over again that they have a legitimate need for information. They cant do their jobs without it. michael barbaro O.K., so if theres Supreme Court precedent for this argument, what is likely to happen if House Democrats pursue this court option? adam liptak Well, the one thing we know pretty much for sure is that it will take a long time. Courts mull over these questions carefully. There are substantial arguments on both sides. And the most recent example of this is a subpoena to Attorney General Eric Holder, President Obamas attorney general, for some documents concerning a botched gun buying program called Fast and Furious, where he was held in contempt. And the lawsuit over that took years. It was ongoing even after the Trump administration took office. michael barbaro So basically, that option is so slow that it might pass the point of being relevant for Democrats. And of course, it might not even result in the Democrats getting what they want from the courts. adam liptak Yeah, thats right. michael barbaro O.K. So if what the Democrats did on Wednesday is likely not to lead anywhere, and if the next option, which is go to the courts, is also not all that productive or fast, what other options are left? adam liptak The option the Constitution contemplates for a president who runs afoul of Congress is impeachment. And I want to unpack what I mean by impeachment a little bit, because people compress into kicking somebody out of office. michael barbaro Right. adam liptak What impeachment really means, for starters, is you can open impeachment proceedings and issue subpoenas in aid of those proceedings to figure out whether you actually want to impeach the president. Impeachment means to accuse him of wrongdoing, sort of like an indictment, and then if there is impeachment, it goes to the Senate for trial and possible removal. But opening an impeachment proceeding actually helps the Houses case, because while you could argue about whether a given subpoena for certain kinds of information helps them perform their legislative lawmaking duties, theres really no argument that Congress is entitled to subpoena information to try to figure out whether the president ought to be impeached. So opening an impeachment proceeding and issuing subpoenas in aid of that proceeding heightens congressional power to obtain the information it wants. michael barbaro So in the absence of impeachment proceedings being open, these subpoenas, they have a certain amount of power, but as you just explained, they can get swatted away. But once impeachment proceedings begin, those subpoenas are kind of turbo charged. They have a greater power than they did before. adam liptak I agree with the second point. I dont want to undersell the ordinary congressional subpoena which is a powerful tool and the courts ordinarily uphold them, but certainly a subpoena issued out of an impeachment proceeding has yet more power. michael barbaro And why is that exactly? adam liptak Because you can argue about we want to see his tax returns. Why? Because we want to enact good tax policy. You know, maybe. But at least that allows lawyers to argue about whether theres a legitimate legislative purpose involved as a predicate for that subpoena. But theres no argument that potential misconduct by the president is grounds for an impeachment inquiry and a subpoena in aid of an impeachment inquiry just has that much more power. michael barbaro So once you open impeachment proceedings, you have much more leeway to subpoena people and documents. And you no longer have to justify them with any kind of legislative rationale in order to issue it. If youre impeaching, youre looking into the president broadly and in an investigative way. And so its no longer at all about legislation. adam liptak Thats right. And theres no question that considering impeachment is at the very core of one of the duties the Constitution assigns to the House of Representatives. michael barbaro Got it. So impeachment in this sense just means that Congress has increased leverage and authority to investigate beyond what they ordinarily have, so theres a scenario in which the Democrats open impeachment proceedings just to pry loose all these things that weve been discussing that they cant seem to get their hands on right now, and they dont really think about the possibility of removing the president at all. adam liptak Right. So just as a prosecutor doesnt wake up one morning and say Im going to indict somebody, nor should the House think about impeaching the president till its gathered up all the information so it can make a sound and sober judgment and that investigation is part of the impeachment process. And subpoenas arising from that inquiry, as you were saying before, Michael, are turbo charged. archived recording (nancy pelosi) I do believe that impeachment is one of the most divisive forces, paths that we could go down to in our country, but if the fact finding takes us there, we have no choice but were not there yet. michael barbaro All of that makes complete sense in the abstract, Adam. But we know that the Democratic leadership has been very reluctant to touch the subject of impeachment because although they must understand it to be a very powerful investigative tool, they also know that in the broader world it means that they have declared political war on the president, and that they would then be open to the accusation which has already been leveled at them; that theyre conducting a witch hunt and that this is an extreme step. So wouldnt that likely discourage them from doing this? adam liptak Yes. So the political calculations and the legal calculations are different. You almost have the sense that in his maximalist approach, President Trump is almost taunting the House into impeaching him. archived recording 1 Are you worried about impeachment, Mr. President? archived recording (donald trump) Not even a little bit. adam liptak Perhaps because he thinks it would be good politics for him and perhaps it would. archived recording (nancy pelosi) Trump is goading us to impeach him. Thats what hes doing. Every single day, hes just like taunting, taunting, taunting, because he knows that it would be very divisive in the country, but he doesnt really care. adam liptak The last time we did that with President Clinton, those proceedings were not popular with the American public. So how the House approaches this question is a balancing act between its real desire to get information to which it thinks its plainly entitled, as Chairman Nadler was saying, but also not to step into a political trap that Democrats may be afraid will backfire. archived recording (bernie sanders) If for the next year, year and a half, going right into the heart of the election, all that the Congress is talking about is impeaching Trump and Trump, Trump, Trump and Mueller, Mueller, Mueller. And were not talking about health care. Were not talking about raising the minimum wage to a living wage. What I worry about is that works to Trumps advantage. michael barbaro So in this scenario, the president may be kind of goading House Democrats by saying no to everything theyre asking for into using this investigative tool of impeachment in ways that theyre not all that comfortable, knowing that it might backfire on them politically if they eventually turn to it out of frustration. adam liptak Yeah, the political calculations are really complicated. So that kind of scrambles some of the legal arguments we were talking about. michael barbaro Where does that leave the Democrats? adam liptak Well, where that leaves the Democrats and the nation is at a real ugly constitutional impasse where our ordinary system of the separation of powers and checks and balances falls away, where you have one branch, Congress, with a legitimate right to information, another branch, the executive branch, taking a maximalist approach and saying, you get nothing, and thats a dangerous place for the nation to be in. michael barbaro I guess Im surprised that there isnt a fifth option because these scenarios that we have just outlined, they would all seem somewhat predictable. Courts just take time. The Department of Justice was never going to enforce a contempt charge against its own boss. And impeachment is a pretty extreme step. So thats just it? adam liptak Theres a fifth option. michael barbaro Whats that? adam liptak Its an election. Some of these matters maybe properly to be decided by the voters. Theyre highly aware of these disputes, and soon enough, the American people will get to speak again. [music] michael barbaro Adam, I wonder if the framers ever anticipated that the House would ever choose to refuse the use of its biggest and most powerful tool when it comes to investigating the executive branch, impeachment, because it was worried about the way it would look because of the political consequences. adam liptak I dont think the framers imagined partisan politics. They were wary of what they called factions. They thought people would be loyal to their institutions, that Congress would take its responsibilities, both House and Senate, seriously to oversee the executive. And if they determined there was presidential misconduct, they would unite in first impeaching and then removing such a president. So this whole world in which we live in where one House is controlled by one party which sees the world one way, the other by the other, and that seems to inflect everyones constitutional responsibilities would be quite foreign to the founding generation. michael barbaro But yet here we are. adam liptak Indeed. michael barbaro Adam, thank you very much. adam liptak Thank you, Michael. michael barbaro Now that the House Judiciary Committee has voted to hold William Barr in contempt, the full House of Representatives is expected to do the same in an upcoming vote, a move that the Trump administration called politically motivated and unnecessary. Well be right back. [music] michael barbaro Heres what else you need to know today. archived recording 1 The president and his administration has repeatedly shown a true hostility to the rule of law and presidential customs. Today we are sending a message. No one is above the law. michael barbaro On Wednesday, lawmakers in New York passed an unusual set of bills that would allow congressional committees to seek President Trumps state tax returns. The legislation, adopted by the Democratically controlled New York Senate, does not mention the president by name, but authorizes the states taxation department to release any state tax return requested by three congressional committees, all of which are now investigating Trump. archived recording 2 Washington has failed to act on this issue. The administration is stonewalling the coequal branch of government. If they wont do it, New York can. michael barbaro The bill now heads to the New York State Assembly, where it is expected to pass and then to Governor Andrew Cuomo, who has vowed to sign it despite strong opposition from New York State Republicans, who called it a legally dubious partisan attack on the president. archived recording 3 Maybe even for the president, theres going to be a lot of collateral damage. Today its the president. Tomorrow its the rest of us. michael barbaro And exactly one year after the United States withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, Iran pulled out of major elements of the deal and threatened to quit the deal entirely in 60 days. archived recording 1 [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] michael barbaro After those 60 days, Irans president Hassan Rouhani said that Iran would violate key terms of the deal by enriching uranium, unless European countries that signed the deal agreed to purchase its oil in violation of U.S. sanctions. That will force those countries to choose between Iran and the U.S. archived recording (mike pompeo) I am confident that as we watch Irans activity that the United Kingdom and our European partners will move forward together to ensure that Iran has no pathway for a nuclear weapon system. michael barbaro WASHINGTON The Senate Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Donald Trump Jr., the presidents eldest son, who met with Russians in June 2016 after being promised political dirt about Hillary Clinton, according to people familiar with the committees decision. The younger Mr. Trump is the first of President Trumps children to be subpoenaed in the continuing congressional investigations into Russias 2016 election interference, and the move by the Republican-led committee is a sign that some members of the presidents party are not aligned with his desire for a swift end to all of the Russia inquiries. News of the subpoena came a day after Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky and the majority leader, sought to lower the curtain on the drama in Congress surrounding Russias efforts to sabotage the 2016 election. The end of the Mueller investigation, he said, meant case closed. But the subpoena of the younger Mr. Trump shows that the Intelligence Committee, which is under Mr. McConnells jurisdiction, is proceeding with its vigorous investigation that for the most part has not degenerated into a partisan morass like a parallel investigation by the House. michael barbaro From The New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily. [music] michael barbaro Today, Iran is warning that it may resume production on its nuclear program, reviving a crisis that had been contained by the signing of the Iran nuclear deal four years ago how one man within the U.S. government may have intentionally brought us to this point. Its Monday, May 13. Mark Landler, tell me how we got to this point in the relationship between the U.S. and Iran. mark landler Well, Michael, the story really starts almost exactly a year ago archived recording (donald trump) Today, I want to update the world on our efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. mark landler When President Trump finally makes good on a pledge he had made during the 2016 campaign. archived recording (donald trump) I am announcing today that the United States will withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal. mark landler Recall, the Iran nuclear deal was signed between Iran on the one side, the United States, and three European countries Britain, France and Germany. michael barbaro Mm-hm. mark landler And the idea behind the deal was, in return for deferring whatever nuclear ambitions it had, Iran was going to be released from these very onerous sanctions that the U.S. and the international community had imposed on it, and as a result, was going to be able to build up the rest of its economy, even while accepting that its nuclear program was going to be hindered for this period of time roughly 15 to 20 years. archived recording 1 Tonight, the breaking news a major shakeup at the White House moments ago. We are just learning mark landler At the same time that President Trump is making good on this campaign promise to hold the United States out of this deal, you have a new personality, a new figure entering the White House. archived recording 2 National security advisor H. R. McMaster is gone. mark landler President Trump dismisses his former national security advisor, General H. R. McMaster. And McMaster is replaced by a man named John Bolton. [music] michael barbaro And what is significant about these two things pulling out of the Iran deal and appointing John Bolton happening at the same time, roughly? mark landler Well, for one thing, it puts Iran on a collision course with the United States. You have the jeopardizing of this deal, which itself had resolved more than a decade of confrontation between Iran and the West. archived recording (john bolton) The Iran deal was, in fact, the worst diplomatic debacle in American history. mark landler The importance of John Boltons arrival is that now you have an official in the middle of the policy making mix who has perhaps the hardest line record toward Iran of any senior figure in the mainstream foreign policy community. archived recording (john bolton) If you cross us, our allies or our partners, you harm our citizens. If you continue to lie, cheat and deceive, yes, there will indeed be hell to pay. mark landler And John Bolton comes at Iran from a very different place than Donald Trump. Where they differ is really what the ultimate objective is. For Trump, hes willing to sit down and talk to the existing leadership in pursuit of a better deal. archived recording (john bolton) Look, the president has said, since really, beginning in the 2016 campaign, hes open to negotiating with leaders like Rouhani, like with Kim Jong-un, to sit down with them. The Iranians have used negotiations in the past just to delay mark landler For John Bolton, its something much more fundamental. He wants to install new democratic leaders in that country. He wants regime change. archived recording (john bolton) We should provide material financial support to the opposition if they desire it. We should work with intelligence services from other countries archived recording 1 O.K. archived recording (john bolton) Saudi, Israel, to provide more pressure. Theres a lot we can do. And we should do it. Our goal should be regime change in Iran. mark landler So regime change as a concept has been a part of American foreign policy, really, since World War II. The U.S. has always debated the wisdom of trying to take out or roll back enemy or adversarial governments. But what happened in the last 15 years is the phrase regime change became identified with the Iraq War, a war that was far more costly, far longer, far more trouble-prone than the Bush administration ever hoped. michael barbaro Right. mark landler And I think, ever since that experience and those difficult days, the idea of regime change has simply become toxic to a large portion of the foreign policy community, but also the political class, both Republican and Democrat. When people say the words regime change, people think about Iraq. Hence, no one wants to say those words, and so the combination of the jeopardizing of the deal and John Bolton is a very combustible mixture. [music] michael barbaro And what is Boltons argument for this focus on regime change in Iran? mark landler Boltons argument is that the Iranian regime is archived recording (john bolton) The worlds largest financier of international terrorism. mark landler The worlds largest state sponsor of terrorism archived recording (john bolton) It continues to pursue ballistic missiles. mark landler A potential nuclear proliferator on a grand scale archived recording (john bolton) The only real purpose of which is to deliver nuclear weapons when they get that capability. mark landler A malign influence in the region, fomenting unrest, financing militant groups in Syria, in Yemen archived recording (john bolton) Theres no doubt this regime is a threat in the region and globally. mark landler A country that is bent on the destruction of the state of Israel, a great American ally. So he really believes that much of the ills that afflict the Middle East can be laid at Tehrans doorstep. archived recording (john bolton) That the Tehran regime is the central problem in the Middle East. mark landler And that hence, the only answer, the only way to bring Iran back into the community of civilized nations is to affect a change in leadership. michael barbaro So basically, people so terrible that they cant possibly be trusted to negotiate a nuclear deal. mark landler In a word, yes. michael barbaro And how does Bolton begin to set that goal in motion? archived recording 1 At the stroke of midnight, the U.S. will reimpose stiff economic sanctions on Iran. mark landler Well, the first thing he does is he reimposes the sanctions that had been lifted as a consequence of the deal. archived recording 2 The sanctions target Irans gold and metal Industries, its auto sector and restrict Iran from using U.S. dollars in financial transactions. mark landler And his goal here is to squeeze the vise around the Iranian economy to raise the pain threshold for the Iranian government, so that, in effect, theyre forced to knuckle under, to come back to the table, to acknowledge that theyre willing to swallow a less advantageous deal. archived recording (john bolton) And I think weve already seen the consequences in Iran. The rial, the currencys declined by 70 percent since the sanctions. Inflation has quadrupled. The country is in recession. I think this is going to cut into Irans ability to continue their nuclear program, to finance terrorism, and to engage in military activity around the Middle East. And I think michael barbaro So the goal here is to make the Iranian government so frustrated with this situation that they just throw up their hands and walk away from the entire nuclear deal? mark landler Thats exactly right. But the Iranians do something unexpected. [music] mark landler Rather than pull out of the deal themselves, they decide to stay in it. michael barbaro Hm. mark landler And they do that for a couple of reasons. One is that the European signatories of the deal Britain, France and Germany all pledged to stay in the deal. So the Iranians hope that even if theyre cut off from all contact with the U.S. economy, they can continue to do some level of trading with the Europeans. And secondly, they make this calculation that Donald Trump is a one-term president, and that if they simply wait him out, perhaps he will be replaced by a friendlier successor, perhaps another Democrat. Most Democrats are on the record as saying they would reinstate the Iran nuclear deal. So there is this belief in Tehran and its encouraged, by the way, by both European officials and by some people here in the United States that they should sit tight, dont rip up the deal and see if they can wait out Donald Trump. [music] michael barbaro So once Iran has decided to basically wait out the Trump presidency, how does the Trump administration respond to what is clearly an act of defiance by Iran? mark landler Well what the Trump administration does publicly is it imposes enormous pressure on the Europeans to fall in line archived recording (donald trump) Any nation that helps Iran in its quest for nuclear weapons could also be strongly sanctioned by the United States. mark landler to start cutting off links to the Iranian government. archived recording 1 Whether its the German manufacturer Siemens, the Danish shipping company Maersk, the French carmaker PSA or the French energy giant Total all of these companies have decided to either scale down or completely pull out of Iran from fear of U.S. sanctions. mark landler So thats the public side of what the Trump administration is doing. But privately, John Bolton is really building up his Iran cadre within the National Security Council. And hes doing so by bringing in these extremely hardline figures who are experts in sanctions strategy. And hes beginning to lay in place the pieces for sort of the next phase of the pressure campaign. archived recording (john bolton) Good morning. Im here to make an important foreign policy announcement concerning the Islamic Republic of Iran. mark landler And among the things that he begins exploring and laying the groundwork for archived recording (john bolton) I am announcing our intent to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps mark landler are designating the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which is this sort of military wing of the Iranian leadership, designating the IRGC archived recording (john bolton) as a foreign terrorist organization. mark landler As a foreign terrorist organization. archived recording 1 This is the first time Washington has formally labeled an arm of another countrys military as a terrorist group. The Trump administration says the Iranian force actively participates in, finances and promotes terrorism as a tool of statecraft. michael barbaro And what would be the significance of that in terms of Boltons ultimate goal here? mark landler Well, going after the I.R.G.C. not only hinders Irans ability to project malign influence around the region. It also hits at a very important source of revenue for politically connected leaders in Iran. The I.R.G.C. is, in fact, the vehicle by which a lot of Irans leadership enriches themselves. So going after that group both hurts Iran domestically and hurts its ability to operate internationally. Bolton also begins laying the groundwork for an even more draconian set of sanctions on Irans oil industry. Up until this point, the U.S. had allowed countries, some of whom are U.S. allies and are very dependent on Iranian oil, to continue to buy from Iran for some temporary period of time. But what happens now is that the administration revokes those waivers. archived recording 1 Eight countries will be affected. mark landler It basically says to all of these countries China archived recording 2 Japan. mark landler South Korea archived recording 3 South Korea, Turkey, Greece mark landler India archived recording 4 and Italy. mark landler That no country that wants to avoid itself being blacklisted by the United States can continue to buy oil from Iran. archived recording 5 Now you either have to cooperate or face sanctions. Heres what mark landler And the effect of this step is truly devastating to the Iranian oil industry, because it was kind of limping along, continuing to export a certain amount of oil to these countries that were operating under waivers. But once these waivers are gone, truly all of Irans customers are basically put in a position of saying, we cannot buy oil from you anymore. michael barbaro And because oil is so central to Irans economy, that is the economic equivalent of just kind of strangling it. mark landler It really is the economic lifeline of the Iranian economy, and so cutting it off 100 percent just has a truly devastating effect. archived recording 1 Its currency, the rial, has already lost two-thirds of its value against the dollar since the year began. The I.M.F. said the Iranian economy would shrink 6 percent this year. And that was before the latest U.S. moves. mark landler This is a level of pressure, this is a tightening of the economic vise unlike anything the Iranians have so far experienced. michael barbaro But how exactly does it get to Boltons goal of regime change? mark landler Well, one school of thought is that if you reduce Irans oil exports to zero, you crater its currency, you tank its economy and you throw millions of Iranian people into poverty, you could, in fact, spark the kind of uprising that people like John Bolton have been waiting for for a quarter century an uprising that would actually topple the regime from inside. michael barbaro Hm. So the idea is that you squeeze Iran hard enough that the regular people of Iran rise up and oust the regime, which is a little bit different than I think how most people think of regime change. You remember Iraq. Regime change was the U.S. invading. Here, its making the people in that country so miserable in a way that they decide to take out their own leaders. mark landler And its driven by a couple of different things. One is that, unlike Iraq, invading Iran would be a monumentally difficult undertaking. So the notion of an American invasion of Iran is really not on the table. This is more about can we make life miserable enough that we can actually bring about regime change from internally? michael barbaro To the degree that the administration is behind Boltons strategy right now, which it seems it is, are there signs that its actually working, that the Iranian regime is starting to collapse from within, as its supposed to? mark landler I think the short answer to that is no. There is no question that these sanctions have really hurt the Iranian economy, have devastated its oil exports. But in the main, this is a regime that seems as firmly entrenched as ever. And its also a regime that is still able to exert influence around the region. It continues to be active in Lebanon; it continues to be active in Syria; it continues to have a role to play in Yemen. So the answer to that is no. Neither internally nor in its neighborhood is there evidence that the Trump administration is really jeopardizing the survival of the regime. [music] mark landler And yet, this week archived recording 1 Weve got some breaking news just coming across the wire out of the Middle East. mark landler We finally did see some signs that Iran is growing impatient. archived recording 2 Just one year to the day after President Trump withdrew the United States from a landmark Iran nuclear agreement, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says he has sent letters to the remaining signatories of the deal, saying mark landler Irans president, Hassan Rouhani, announced that Iran would begin to pull away, in a modest way, from parts of the Iranian nuclear deal. archived recording (hassan rouhani) [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] mark landler They would begin some very small scale enrichment of nuclear material. So theyre not violating the deal in any dramatic fashion but theyre beginning to peel away from the edges of the deal. And, perhaps more significantly, theyre putting the Europeans in a box. archived recording 3 Iran says other countries have two months to implement their commitments to the deal, or Iran will, quote, reduce its own. mark landler So remember, the Europeans pledged to stay in the deal. michael barbaro Right. mark landler They pledged to continue to give Iran the benefits of the deal even if the United States pulled out. And essentially, what the Iranian government said to the Europeans this week is you have a certain period of time to show us that we are going to get these economic benefits, and if you cant show us, then were going to pull out of the deal in a much more wholesale fashion. archived recording 4 The Iranian president says the country will start enriching uranium again in 60 days. Thats unless Europe, Russia, and China can help Iran counter U.S. sanctions on its oil sales. mark landler So in effect, what theyve done is theyve put the Europeans in the middle of their evolving battle with the United States. [music] michael barbaro And kind of encouraged them to choose between Iran and the U.S. mark landler And its a very difficult choice. So on the one hand, the Europeans can defy President Trump and say, were going to continue to do business with the Iranians, in which case, the president could theoretically say, fine, Im going to sanction you. On the other hand, if the Europeans say to the Iranians, we cant afford to defy the United States, then Iran could say, in that case, we have a pretext, a reasonable case, for leaving this deal entirely, which is something, of course, the Europeans have been desperately trying to avoid. michael barbaro So is this a sign that Boltons plan is working? Or is it a sign that maybe it backfired? mark landler Well, it depends on your perspective. From the perspective of someone who wants to keep Irans nuclear program bottled up, it has totally backfired. From the perspective of someone who is hungry for a confrontation with Iran, it actually provides you with more of a rationale. michael barbaro What do you mean? mark landler Well, in the sense that theyre now in breach of the agreement. michael barbaro Hm. mark landler Beforehand, the United States was imposing all this pressure on Iran without really having the legal high ground, because the Iranians were complying with the terms of the deal. The American argument was, its a terrible deal. Now, the Iranians are in breach of the deal. So it actually gives more of a pretext, more of a case for the Trump administration to tighten the vise on the Iranians. michael barbaro So if you are somebody who favors regime change, not just going back to the negotiating table, this is a reasonably good place to be. mark landler Its a better place to be, because now youre dealing with a regime that has, to some extent, gone rogue, a regime that signed a deal with the international community, which won a lot of credit in Europe for sticking to the terms of that deal, which won a lot of credit at the United Nations for sticking with the terms of that deal. Well, now, suddenly, the Iranians are also in breach. So I think it does improve your position if your goal is conflict rather than some kind of diplomatic resolution. michael barbaro If youre John Bolton. mark landler If youre, in other words, John Bolton. [music] michael barbaro Mark, is one way to think about this that John Bolton would never have signed the Iran deal in the first place, as Obama did? So hes basically trying to get us right back where we were before that deal was signed, which is Iran developing a nuclear program, but this time, rather than solve it through a nuclear deal, he wants to solve it another way, regime change? mark landler I think thats right, because I think that John Boltons argument is the way to forever guarantee that Iran doesnt develop a nuclear weapon is not to put on these complicated timelines that expire at some point in the future, but to fundamentally change the character of the government in Iran, so you just dont have to worry about this nuclear threat at all. And trying to achieve it through arrangements, through complicated treaties, is simply never going to work because of the nature of the leadership youre dealing with. Better to start off with a new leadership, perhaps a leadership that has no nuclear ambitions at all, and just change the equation in a more fundamental way. michael barbaro So Mark, are we still on a collision course with Iran? mark landler Id say the more accurate way to put it is were back on a collision course. We had been on a collision course with Iran for much of the last decade. And there was this brief period while the deal was in place, where one could say that there was an understanding. But were now back in a very familiar dynamic. We continue to ratchet up the pressure. We see acts of Iranian defiance. And its very uncertain how the story plays out. [music] michael barbaro Mark, thank you very much. mark landler Thank you, Michael. [music] michael barbaro Late last week, the Trump administration announced a new round of sanctions on Iranian steel, aluminum, copper and iron aimed at further squeezing its economy. At the same time, the U.S. said it would build up its military presence around Iran, including an antiaircraft defense system, B-52 bombers and a warship. The military movements are based on U.S. intelligence suggesting that Irans government may try to provoke a conflict with the U.S. to cement its hold on power as the economic toll of U.S. sanctions continues to grow. Well be right back. Heres what else you need to know today. archived recording 1 The E.U. Parliament has only limited powers. It doesnt even propose the laws that it votes on. Its actually the unelected European Commission that comes up with those laws, which are then fleshed out by a different structure. michael barbaro The Times reports that Russia appears to be engaging in a widespread campaign of misinformation aimed at influencing upcoming elections for the European Parliament, the legislative branch of the European Union. Those elections, scheduled for late May, feature populist candidates who, if elected, would be hostile to the E.U. and sympathetic to Russia. The Russian campaign involves promoting right wing parties in Italy and Germany and raising questions on TV networks like Russia Today about the legitimacy of the European Parliament itself. archived recording 2 Perhaps, though, the real question is, does it matter who you vote for? Because, in reality, even a seismic shakeup at M.E.P. level wont have any impact on the commission nor the council, where it seems the power base really lies. michael barbaro Ms. Rupert recently spoke with The Times about how this election is different from past cycles and the role race will play, both as a policy issue and on the Democratic stage. This interview has been edited and condensed. Q. Is it strange to you that its 2019, and its still so rare to be a black woman running a presidential campaign? A. Its real strange to me. I know so many amazing black women, like, weve got to get on this. But I also have a lot of hope that thats changing. People are realizing how critical it is for campaigns and their leadership teams to reflect the communities that they are trying to resonate with. Secretary Castro always puts together diverse teams, so I know that his commitment is a genuine one. Im sure that there are some people who are hiring from an optics perspective of having a diverse team this cycle. What people are going to see, though, is that in order to be successful, you need a diverse team. Its so much more than just hiring a diverse pool because its the moment to do it. What challenges do people of color who run for office face that white candidates dont? There are a couple of things. I think the American public metabolizes conversations about race being led by white people differently than they do when those same conversations are being led by people of color. I think theres greater comfort, in some ways, hearing from a white candidate talking about how we need to confront white nationalism, and theres discomfort when that same rhetoric comes from a candidate of color. We definitely grapple with how can Secretary Castro talk about race and racism in a way that is true to him and his experience, without being resisted in a way that white candidates just dont have to deal with. DETROIT Senator Kamala Harris of California structures her stump speech around two themes truth and justice meant to evoke her career as a barrier-breaking prosecutor and cultivate a reputation as a fearless public advocate. But when Ms. Harris swept into Detroit to address an N.A.A.C.P. banquet on Sunday night, she added something new. After her signature windup of lets speak truth, she replaced her usual recitation of Democratic policies with an attack on President Trump, accusing him of enabling bigotry and divisiveness and refusing to call neo-Nazi violence what it is: domestic terrorism. This president isnt trying to make America great, she said, hes trying to make America hate. With that, Ms. Harris was nodding to a political truth: She is attempting to reset her campaign after stagnating in Democratic primary polls, using her strengths as a prosecutor which were on display during a recent face-off with Attorney General William Barr to mount a sharp indictment of Mr. Trump. Ms. Harris entered the 2020 race in January seeking to make history as the first black female president, and drew 20,000 people to her campaign kickoff in Oakland and a burst of donations that helped her emerge as the No. 2 fund-raiser in the Democratic field through March. But from the start, she has found herself in a political vise, squeezed by competing factions in her party and even in her own campaign, which has led to some stumbles. WASHINGTON President Trump on Wednesday defended the more than $1 billion he reported in business losses between 1985 and 1994, a previously undisclosed amount revealed in a New York Times investigation, as a best practice that other real estate developers had also used. Yet even as he tried to explain in a pair of Twitter posts that showing losses for tax purposes was considered a sport among real estate developers like himself, the president also said The Timess account was a highly inaccurate Fake News hit job! [Read The Timess investigation here.] It was not immediately clear what specifically in The Times investigation Mr. Trump disputed. The article reported the staggering figure of $1.17 billion in losses between 1985 and 1994, an amount calculated from 10 years of his tax information obtained by The Times. It also raised questions about the image that Mr. Trump presented of himself, and whether he is a tarnished, not triumphant, businessman. In some years, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than any other single taxpayer among an I.R.S. sampling of high earners. Mr. Trump has portrayed himself as a self-made billionaire and master deal maker. In Warwick, some worried that the sunflower butter and jelly sandwich could become a marker of shame. In the days after the district announced the policy, nearly 600 comments have been posted on its Facebook page. Some readers blamed parents for not prioritizing their household expenses. Others said they had received mailed warnings that they owed just a few cents, because a child had put a carton of milk or another item not covered by some meal plans on his or her tray. I know as parents this is our responsibility but why take it out on kids if parents are struggling, one woman wrote on the district page. We need to look at both sides of this! another wrote. While it is inappropriate to embarrass a child over their parents failings theres also the argument that if we provide free lunches with no accountability, many parents will purposely choose not to bother paying at all. The district also defended itself against reports that it had refused donations from people outside the school. Angelica Penta, an owner of Gels Kitchen, said she had set up donation jars at her restaurant last year, after she saw a report about a girl who was refused food that she had chosen because her account was delinquent. When Ms. Penta tried to bring a $4,000 check to the school district this year as a donation, she said, officials there refused it. At the end of the day, it is the child who is suffering, she said in an interview. In any case, he said, the cellphone video does not represent new evidence, since it was known to investigators and was disclosed to the family in response to the wrongful-death lawsuit they filed in the case. The suit was settled in 2016 for $1.9 million. A number of questions were also raised after Ms. Blands death about what happened at the jail, and why a 28-year-old woman on her way to start a new job would take her own life. Most of those questions have already been put to rest: Both her mental health background and the physical evidence in the autopsy report pointed to suicide. The confrontation at the traffic stop led to Ms. Bland being arrested on a charge of assaulting a public servant. She was booked on July 10, 2015, into the Waller County jail in Hempstead, a town of about 6,000 in southeast Texas, and she was placed in a housing area for women. Three days later, on July 13, a guard making the rounds found her hanging in her 15-by-20 foot cell in what officials described as a semi-standing position, with a plastic trash-can liner around her neck and affixed to a U-shaped metal hook overhead. She was pronounced dead shortly after 9 a.m. The results of the autopsy, announced by officials on July 23, indicated that her injuries were consistent with suicide, not homicide. The autopsy found that the condition of Ms. Blands head, neck and hands lacked any signs of a violent struggle. Markings around her neck were also consistent with suicide, the medical examiners said. Waller County officials later expressed regret that Ms. Bland had not been placed on suicide watch, particularly in light of her disclosure on a jail screening form that she had once tried to kill herself with pills after losing a baby. She also reported at the time she entered the jail that she had battled depression and was feeling depressed at the time. Some expected the end of apartheid in South Africa to set off a civil war. As elections approached 25 years ago the first in which citizens of all races were able to vote horrific acts of violence threatened to undermine the hopes for a South Africa freed from white minority rule. White supremacists assassinated a young black leader in his driveway. A mob stoned and stabbed an American volunteer to death, shouting one settler, one bullet. And in the black townships, political rivalries set off deadly attacks in which people were burned alive. Yet, the final transfer of power was a remarkably peaceful, joyful four days. Millions of black South Africans, finally full citizens in the land of their ancestors, stood in line for hours, patiently waiting for the chance to vote for new leaders and end the brutal subjugation of the apartheid system. Officials would later declare that there had not been a single election-related fatality. [As South Africans vote in Wednesday's election, the A.N.C. faces an electorate increasingly disillusioned with the country's democracy.] JOHANNESBURG Millions of South Africans cast ballots on Wednesday, voting for the first time since President Cyril Ramaphosa assumed power early last year with promises to renew both his corruption-ridden party and the beleaguered nation. A quarter-century after the end of apartheid captured imaginations worldwide, Mr. Ramaphosa and his party, the African National Congress, faced an electorate increasingly disillusioned with the state of South Africas democracy. The vote is partly a referendum on Mr. Ramaphosa, whose personal popularity has consistently polled higher than his partys. Many of the A.N.C.s traditional supporters approve of him, polls show. But they question whether he can outflank powerful party rivals and root out the endemic corruption that has come to define the A.N.C., Nelson Mandelas once celebrated liberation movement. I got trust in Cyril Ramaphosa hes done a lot already against corruption, Reckson Chauke, a 57-year-old steelworker, said after he voted for the A.N.C. in Alexandra, a black township in Johannesburg. The head of the United Nations agency created to eradicate the AIDS crisis resigned with immediate effect on Wednesday, five months after his leadership was impugned in a damning report about workplace sexual harassment and bullying. Michel Sidibe, the executive director of the agency, U.N.AIDS, has accepted a position as the minister of health and social affairs in his native Mali, the agency said in a statement that extolled what it described as Mr. Sidibes remarkable contribution to the AIDS response since his appointment a decade ago. A panel of independent experts who reviewed the Geneva-based agency last year found Mr. Sidibe responsible for fostering a cult of personality and patriarchal management, saying he had enabled a culture of harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying and abuse of power. Their review said the atmosphere at the agency was toxic. Even while acknowledging his achievements in combating AIDS, the experts said they had no confidence in his leadership. Critics of Mr. Sidibe said the review was so damaging that he had little choice but to resign. Instead, he promised changes at the agency and said he would leave at the end of June, six months ahead of his terms expiration. ISLAMABAD, Pakistan A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row after being found guilty of blasphemy a conviction that was later overturned has arrived in Canada, her lawyer said on Wednesday. The woman, Asia Bibi, was convicted and sentenced to death in 2010 after being accused, based on little evidence, of speaking against the Prophet Muhammad during a heated argument with Muslim women. She insisted she had not done so and that she was the victim of false accusations prompted by bigotry. Ms. Bibi, a former farmworker in her early 50s, was cleared of the charges last year and released from prison under government protection. That led to calls for her execution and violent protests by hard-line Islamists that paralyzed large parts of the country. Her family appealed for asylum in Canada, Britain and the United States, saying that Ms. Bibi was in grave danger. Her lawyer briefly left Pakistan, citing threats to his life. MANILA President Rodrigo Duterte has given Canada a May 15 deadline to take back tons of trash mistakenly sent to the Philippines several years ago, saying he will ship the garbage back if the Canadians do not comply. If they cannot get that, then we will be shipping them out and throw them to the shores or beaches of Canada, a presidential spokesman, Salvador Panelo, said in a statement. The trash arrived in 2013 and 2014 in more than 100 containers delivered from Canada by a private Canadian company and marked as recyclable scrap. But dozens of the containers held used adult diapers, household garbage, plastic bags and other waste. The Canadian government has said that it is working on resolving the dispute. It amended environmental laws in 2016 to set liability for private companies in such cases and to compel them to take back the waste. KABUL, Afghanistan Taliban militants attacked the compound of an American-run contractor in the Afghan capital on Wednesday, killing at least five people and sending a stinging message to the United States as it engages in peace talks with the group. The attack in Kabul, the capital, which the Interior Ministry said also wounded 24, was a clear signal about the state of the peace process even after the Taliban leadership met with American negotiators last week in the sixth round of peace talks in Doha, Qatar. The American charity CARE said three employees in its Afghanistan office were killed. CARE maintains a compound near the site of the contractor that was targeted, Counterpart International, which said all of its employees were safe and accounted for. Todays attack showed that the Taliban dont believe in peace it was a direct message to the Americans that the Taliban will be the winner of the Afghan war, said Atiqullah Amarkhel, a retired Afghan Army general and military analyst. ISLAMABAD, Pakistan A bombing outside one of Pakistans most revered Sufi shrines killed at least 10 people, including five police officers, and wounded at least 20 other people, officials said, raising new concerns about militant violence targeting a moderate strand of Islam. The bombing took place Wednesday morning in Lahore, the provincial capital of Punjab, near the shrine of an 11th-century Sufi saint, Abul Hasan Ali Bin Usman, more popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajveri. Police officials said it destroyed a van carrying police commandos who were providing security at the shrine. Investigators were trying to determine who was behind the attack, which they said was a suicide bombing. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. There were no specific threat alerts to the shrine, but it is always considered to be a high-security zone, said Ashfaq Ahmad Khan, the deputy inspector general for operations of the Lahore police. SYDNEY, Australia One candidate ranted about the danger of the homosexual lifestyle. Another called for the genital mutilation of non-Muslim women who support Islam. A third made light of rape, and yet another boasted that he had done more Asian than I know what to do with. Nearly every day in the brief run-up to the Australian election on May 18, voters have confronted a new revelation of toxic speech by politicians, propagated largely on social media. The offensive remarks have forced at least six candidates for Parliament to quit, while many more linger like zombies most of them from the conservative governing coalition and other parties on the right. This Great Flushing Out, experts say, reveals a paradox. Homophobia, Islamophobia and other markers of intolerance are more embedded in the countrys psyche and politics than many Australians want to admit. But at the same time, analysts see signs of hope as the major political parties cast out candidates for their comments, drawing clearer lines than ever on what constitutes acceptable conduct. A Canadian judge on Wednesday altered the bail terms of a Chinese tech executive facing possible extradition to the United States on fraud charges, granting her lawyers request that she be allowed to move from a $6 million, six-bedroom house in Vancouver to a $16 million, seven-bedroom mansion in the citys exclusive Shaughnessy neighborhood. Lawyers for the executive, Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of the Chinese tech giant Huawei, requested the change at a hearing before the Supreme Court of British Columbia. The courtroom was filled to capacity, a reflection of the intense interest in the case since Ms. Meng was arrested in December by Canadian officials in Vancouver. Her arrest put Canada in the center of a diplomatic struggle between China and the United States, which sought her arrest and is seeking her extradition. The United States has since accused Ms. Meng of, among other things, fraudulently deceiving four banks to enable Huawei to evade American sanctions against Iran. Ms. Mengs arrest has also created a rift between China and Canada. China has detained in retaliation, some say two Canadians and accused them of espionage, and it has sentenced two other Canadians to death on drug-related accusations. Reporter: Hi, congratulations. Thanks for taking the time out. I know you guys are must be really, really busy, but Meghan, can you tell us what its like becoming a new mom and tell us a little bit about Baby Sussex as were calling him. Its magic. Its pretty amazing and, I mean, I have the two best guys in the world. So Im really happy. Reporter: Tell us a little bit about your son. Whats he like? Is he sleeping well? Good baby? Yes, he has the sweetest temperament. Hes really calm and Wonder who he gets that from? And hes been, hes just been the dream, so its been a special couple days. Reporter: Who does he take after? Does he look like anyone? We are still trying to figure that out. Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks. Were basically sort of monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really, but hes changing, his looks are changing every single day. So who knows? Reporter: And how are you finding parenting generally? Is it still a special moment? Yeah its great, I mean parenting is amazing. Its only been what? Two and a half days, three days. Yeah. But were just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy here to spend some precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up. Reporter: And I hear youre off to see two special people in a minute. Yes. The queen and the duke. Yes and we just bumped into the duke as we were walking by, which was so nice. So it will be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family, and my mom is with us as well. So it has been a really here we go. Another great-grandchild. Reporter: Can we have a little peek at him? We just cant quite see his face. Wow. Hes already got a little bit of facial hair as well. Wonderful. Guys, thank you. Thank you all so much. Thank you. And thank you everybody for the well wishes and the kindness. It just means so much. Thank you. Thank you. LONDON A missing piece of Stonehenge has been returned to Britain 60 years after it was taken, and the piece is likely to provide clues to the origins of the prehistoric monument, said English Heritage, the organization that takes care of the site, on Wednesday. The missing stone roughly the size and shape of a broomstick was taken by a Briton, Robert Phillips, who worked with a diamond-cutting business at the time and emigrated to the United States around three decades ago. Mr. Phillips took part in repair works at Stonehenge in 1958 to raise one of the trilithons, the iconic three-piece standing stones, that had fallen to the ground. The work included drilling ring-shaped holes into the stone, and it produced three-foot cylinders. He retired to Aventura, Fla., north of Miami, according to the BBC, and kept the polished-looking stone in his office for decades. But on the eve of his 90th birthday last year, he decided to return the piece to England. The debate is more pressing than ever. In overflowing camps in eastern Syria, the wives and children of ISIS fighters who fled the last shreds of ISIS territory are dying of exposure, malnutrition and sickness. Children are too spent to speak. Women who have renounced the group live in dread of attacks from those who have not. The local militias running the camps say they cannot detain other countries citizens forever. Across the border in Iraq, government authorities are administering hasty justice to people accused of being Islamic State members, sentencing hundreds to death in trials that often last no longer than five minutes. But most foreign governments are reluctant to take them back, leaving them international pariahs wanted by no one not their home countries, not their jailers. Who wants to be the politician who decides to repatriate Individual A who, two years down the road, blows himself up? said Lorenzo Vidino, the director of the George Washington University Program on Extremism. The fact is, Mr. Vidino said, few extremists return to stage attacks in their home countries. But the exceptional cases including the 2015 Paris attacks that killed 130 people and two of Tunisias deadliest terrorist attacks have made the idea of repatriation politically toxic in many countries. At least one of the bombers who carried out the attack in Sri Lanka on Easter was a Sri Lankan who had trained with the Islamic State in Syria. Some countries, like Britain and Australia, have revoked the citizenships of their nationals suspected of joining the Islamic State abroad, effectively abandoning them and their children to indefinite detention without charge and potential statelessness. Britain alone has canceled the passports of more than 150 people, the home secretary, Sajid Javid, has said. The Opelika City Council approved changes to ordinances concerning historic preservation in the citys three historic districts during its Tuesday meeting. As a result, properties acquired by religious organizations after the effective date will now require oversight from the Opelika Historic Commission. Per city attorney Guy Gunter, the effective date of the changes will likely be Sunday. The council created an exemption for churches in its historic preservation ordinances in 2000. All other property owners in the three historic districts the Northside Opelika Historic District, the Downtown Historic District and the Geneva Street Opelika Historic District must acquire a certificate of appropriateness before either changing the exterior appearance of their building or completely tearing the building down. Going forward, any property purchased by a religious organization within one of the historic districts will be under the same scrutiny as all other property in the districts. 'A difficult decision' Kebingungan dan kesulitan mencari dan bingung ketika memilih situs judi slot online gacor di tahun 2021? 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Called shimmering, the unique defensive strategy of giant honeybees involves large numbers of workers raising their rear-ends by ninety degrees and shaking them in unison, creating an effect similar to the well-known Mexican waves seen at stadiums across the world. How hundreds of bees are capable of communicating and producing this highly coordinated response to threats remains unknown, but after 15 years of studying the behavior in the wild, scientists are now convinced that shimmering is a defense mechanism. Photo: Wikimedia CH (GFDL 1.2) Naturalists have long assumed that the Mexican wave-like patterns observed on living bee curtains in the forests of East Asia were meant to keep predators at bay, but the first conclusive proof came a decade ago, when a team of researchers led by Gerald Kastberger from the University of Graz, in Austria, published a study after 15 years of observing giant honeybees in India and Nepal. After analyzing videos of shimmering colonies of giant honeybees, Kasterberger and his colleagues concluded that there two types of shimmering small-scale ones that only involved under a dozen bees and large-scale ones that covered the entire surface of the hive. Small scale shimmering occurred frequently, while the large-scale ones only happened when there were wasps nearby. Scientists noted that the intensity and frequency of the shimmering increased the closer predators got to the giant honeybee hive, and that the moment it began, nearby wasps or hornets halted their attack and fled. The more bees took part in the mesmerizing Mexican waves, the faster the predators retreated. While its still not clear how the shimmering of giant honeybees affects invading wasps, in his study Gerald Kastberger suggests that small-scale waves confuses attackers, making it difficult for them to focus on any one bee, while large-scale shimmering actually threaten them. Interestingly, large-scale shimmering was observed only when wasps or hornets breached a 50cm safe-zone around the honeybees hive. They could hover outside this perimeter without triggering the defense mechanism, but as soon as they crossed it, the Mexican waves began. Shimmering seems to be used solely as a defense against wasps and hornets, while larger threats trigger a different response. For example, in one experiment, giant bees deployed hundreds of defenders when a kite appeared within 20 meters of the bees hive. Shimmering is not full-proof, but if any wasp or hornet decides to land on the hive, giant honeybees have another trick up their sleeve. Its called snow balling and it involves a group of bees surrounding the intruder and vibrating their wing muscles in unison. This heats the bees bodies to 45C, a temperature that is harmless to them but lethal to wasps. Basically, they cook the intruder alive. Charlie Black Prime Policy Group is doing pro-bono work for Libyas Government of National Accord, which is locked in conflict with a rebel group led by 75-year-old warlord and US citizen Khalifa Haftar. The BCW lobbying unit, which does not have formal written contract with the Libyans, introduced deputy prime minister Ahmed Maiteeq to officials in the Trump administration and Congress. He briefed the US politicos on the GNA's interest in peace and a unity government, according to PPGs federal filing. Veteran Republican politico Charlie Black, PPG chairman, is among his firms executives to file as lobbyist for the GNA. Vice chairman and former Congressman John Tanner, chief of staff Abbi Stuaan, managing director/international relations & trade Lisa Colangelo and director/energy & environment Edward Cox round out the Libyan lobbying team. Omnicoms Mercury Group in April signed a $1.8M contract with GNA and received a $500K upfront fee before launching the effort. A woman on trial accused of murder went to a garda station and said that she had killed her boyfriend, telling a garda: I stabbed him. I pushed the knife into him, come quick, a jury has heard. The court also heard that Inga Ozolina was "panicky and frantic" when she arrived at Roscrea Garda Station, dressed in a bathrobe and slippers, in the early hours of the morning. Garda Diarmuid O'Connor was giving evidence on Wednesday in the Central Criminal Court trial of Ms Ozolina (48), who is charged with murdering her boyfriend Audrius Pukas (43) over two years ago in her Co Tipperary home. Ms Ozolina, originally from Latvia, but with an address at Old Court Church, Mountrath, Co Laois has pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Pukas at The Malthouse, Roscrea, Co Tipperary, on November 20, 2016. The trial has previously heard that the accused and deceased were in a tempestuous and volatile relationship which was violent at times and the prosecution contends there is no question of self-defence in the case. Gda OConnor told prosecution counsel Paul Murray SC that Ms Ozolina called to the front door of Roscrea Garda Station at 2.30am on November 20. Gda OConnor said he went to the front door of the garda station and Ms Ozolina told him: Ive killed my boyfriend, come quick, come quick. I stabbed him. I pushed the knife into him, come quick. The witness testified that Ms Ozolina was panicky, frantic, anxious and upset at the time. I said to my colleagues that we may have a stabbing on our hands, he explained. Ms Ozolina followed him into the public office area of the station but he did not notice any blood on her hands, he said. Gda O'Connor said he left the station and followed Ms Ozolina to her apartment at The Malthouse. The witness said he observed Mr Pukas lying on his back in the downstairs bedroom and he was wearing only boxer shorts. There was blood around his stomach, he added. In cross-examination, defence counsel Caroline Biggs SC put it to the witness that the word stabbed did not appear in the second entry of his handwritten notes in his notebook. No, Im not sure if it's stabbed or stated, he replied. Ms Biggs further put it to Gda OConnor that his first notebook entry, concerning what Ms Ozolina had said to him when she entered the garda station, may not have been a "verbatim record". In my opinion it is an exact record of what she said, he replied. In re-examination, Gda OConnor agreed with Mr Murray that he had first recorded what Ms Ozolina had said to him in his notebook sometime after 2.36am on November 20, when he had arrived at the scene. Following this, Mr Murray asked Gda OConnor as to when he made the later note to himself, which was not a "verbatim account". "That was the 20th going into the 21st," he replied. The trial continues before Mr Justice Alexander Owens and a jury of seven men and five women. The Irish Hospice Foundation has welcomed the Offaly Hospice Foundations 500k donation as a major investment in the future development of Hospice Care in the Midlands. Offaly Hospice Foundation's announcement of a 500k kick start for the building of a Level 3, Specialist Palliative Care (SPC) Inpatient Unit in the Midlands has been warmly welcomed as a progressive initiative and a major investment in the future development of Hospice Care in the Midlands by the Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF). Sharon Foley, CEO of the IHF commenting on last weeks announcement said: "This is good news for the Midlands region which is one of the very few areas without a Level 3 SPC Inpatient Unit in Ireland. The IHF has long invested in planning and advocacy for SPC services for the four Midland counties to try to increase development, investment and infrastructure in the region." "Most hospice services in Ireland, including the SPC Inpatient Units around the country, have come about as a partnership between voluntary hospice groups fundraising efforts and State investment in the services when built. Offaly Hospice Foundation is to be commended for taking this vital step to progress the project." "It is our expectation that their 500k donation will attract other funds and funders and bring this long-held vision to realisation. Tullamore Lions Club is already engaged with Offaly Hospice Foundation and we hope that other local community and business organisations follow suit." The Midlands region is one of the few remaining areas of the country without a Level 3 SPC Inpatient Unit. The region is currently served by SPC Consultants and home care services and by Level 2 hospice beds in the community. "A Level 3 SPC Inpatient Unit would support, develop and underpin the excellent and vital palliative care services already provided by the palliative care specialists, homecare teams and GPs in the area. Those people in need of palliative and end-of-life care in the Midlands deserve access to the full range of services and care options already available to people in other parts of the country." Lawsuit Against Dave Chappelle From Banana Peel-Throwing Prankster Gets Dismissed Elijah C. Watson Elijah Watson serves as Okayplayer's News & Culture Editor. When The incident occurred back in 2015. A lawsuit against Dave Chappelle involving an incident where someone threw a banana peel at him while he was performing in Santa Fe, New Mexico, has been dismissed. READ: Dave Chappelle To Receive Prestigious National Humor Award Once Given To Richard Pryor In a report from the Albuquerque Journal, the suit, which was filed by Christian Englander in 2018, was dismissed by State District Court Judge Francis Mathew on April 24 because there had been no significant activity in the case for 180 days. Per the Journal: The case was dismissed without prejudice, meaning that parties to the suit can move that it be reinstated within 30 days of the dismissal. The Journal also noted that the case was dismissed without prejudice, meaning that it can be reinstated within 30 days of the dismissal. In his complaint, Englander alleged that Chappelles bodyguard (whos also named as a defendant) struck him in the face twice after throwing a banana peel at the comedian while he was performing at the Lensic Performing Arts Center in 2015. Englander said he threw the peel from a banana he ate earlier at Chappelle after he took offense to a joke the comedian made about his friend in the audience. I thought the joker could take a joke, Englander said after the incident, which he said was misinterpreted as a racial attack. Englander also claimed that Chappelle had intimidated him while he and the comedian were talking at Santa Fe Police Department headquarters after the performance. However, a police report disputed some of Englanders claims. Englander was charged with battery and disturbing the peace after the incident, but they were dismissed in late 2015 after Chappelle had been unresponsive to requests about providing testimony. Englander instead was required to complete 22 hours of community service. Chappelle has referenced this incident before in his Netflix comedy special released last year, jokingly calling it banana gate. Source: Albuquerque Journal Kim Kardashian To Produce Documentary On Criminal Justice Reform Elijah C. Watson Elijah Watson serves as Okayplayer's News & Culture Editor. When The documentary is tentatively titled Kim Kardashian: The Justice Project. Kim Kardashian is executive producing a documentary on criminal justice reform. READ: Kim Kardashian Claims Alice Johnson Would Still Be In Prison If Kanye West Didnt Support Trump Titled Kim Kardashian: The Justice Project, the two-hour documentary will capture Kardashians efforts to secure freedom for Americans who she believes have been wronged by the justice system, and will offer an exclusive, never before seen look inside her mission to tackle one of Americas most controversial subjects, according to a press release via Variety. The documentary will be airing on Oxygen. A date has yet to be confirmed. In June 2018, Kardashian publicly campaigned for clemency for Alice Marie Johnson, a 63-year-old Alabama woman who had been in jail on a nonviolent drug charge since 1996. She was convicted for facilitating communications in a cocaine trafficking operation in Memphis, Tennessee and was given a life sentence without the possibility of parole. The celebrity, who is studying to become a lawyer, even met with Donald Trump in hopes of getting him to grant clemency to Johnson, which he did. Speaking with Mic following her meeting with Trump, Kardashian said that he really spent the time to listen to our case that we were making for Alice and really understood, and I am very hopeful that this will turn out really positively. Kardashian has reportedly helped free 17 first-time nonviolent drug offenders over the past three months as a part of a campaign called 90 Days of Freedom. Kim has been funding this project and (has been) a very important supporter of our 90 Days of Freedom campaign as part of the First Step Act, which President Trump signed into law last year, MiAngel Cody, lead counsel of the The Decarceration Collective, told CNN. Weve been going around the country in courtrooms and asking judges to release these inmates. Source: Variety "I remember sitting there and hearing the doctor yell out that they had 12 minutes to administer the tPA," Hader said. "That's when everything hit home." He continued: "I was still wanting to be in disbelief. But everything came crashing down, like 'Nope, this is happening.'" His wife, Rebecca, told The Post she was also couldn't believe her husband had a stroke. She said she always told him not to pop his neck. "I thought it had to be something else," she said. "He's too young. It was too weird. My whole way to the hospital, I was kind of talking myself out of it being a stroke." Hader said he was transported to Mercy Hospital where he remained in the intensive care unit for several days before being released to a rehabilitation center. "I was terrified," Rebecca Hader said. "He says he was never worried he was going to die. I did all the worrying that he was going to die." Not only did Hader survive, but with help from physical therapy, he was on his feet and walking within a matter of weeks. The locations they were found in (layup sites) refer to how they were cast off, their wearers symbolically shedding their old lives and becoming Americanized, Kraft wrote. While she was researching the quilt, Kraft visited the exhibit with a Latina friend from Los Angeles who started crying upon seeing the number of deaths represented. Its very sad. Its very eye-opening, Kraft said. The stories really brought home the humanity of the quilt. The topic of immigration at the southern border has become more politically divisive in recent years as President Donald Trump has escalated rhetoric around the issue, calling it an invasion. And Ipsen doesnt dance around the political debate: The exhibit materials are clear when they assert that U.S. policies have destabilized Latin American countries, forcing their citizens to make the dangerous journey north in search of a better life. Its a message that doesnt prove popular with everyone, and Ipsen said a few people have walked out of her presentations in cities where the quilt exhibition has traveled. But overall, reception to the display has been largely positive, with most people saying they were previously unaware of the scale of the loss in the desert. I dont think weve seen the last version of LB 289, said Omaha Sen. Steve Lathrop. Well see whats coming. Im still listening. LB 289 not only shifts support of K-12 education away from property taxes and onto state aid, but also reworks the complicated formula for delivering state funds to the states 244 school districts. While the states small and midsize school districts generally support the bill and will see big boosts in state aid, Omaha, Lincoln and the rest of the states largest school districts remain wary. Theyre concerned about long-term negative impacts on their budgets from a new lid on property tax revenue. Theres also worry about whether future state lawmakers will honor the bills commitment to dramatically increase state support of local schools from about $1 billion a year to about $1.5 billion. Right now, Nebraska lags at about 47th in the nation in state support for public education; LB 289 is projected to raise that to about 20th. This is the time to step forward and be a state senator and do whats best for the state, said North Platte Sen. Mike Groene, who drafted the state aid changes in the proposal. Whats best for Nebraska is LB 289. We can fund the University of Nebraska above and beyond what the governor recommended, but we cant find $5 million to keep our elections safe, Erdman said, referring to a request from the Nebraska Secretary of States office for new voting machines. Brainard Sen. Bruce Bostelman also questioned why the lights and video scoreboard are left on at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln when he drives by early in the morning on non-game days. Senators, he said, need to stop looking at the universitys spending through rose-colored glasses. But Lincoln Sens. Anna Wishart and Kate Bolz, who sit on the Appropriations Committee along with Erdman, defended the added spending on NU. Bolz said the states current spending on the university system is actually 8.5% lower than it was in 2016-17, and Wishart said the spending is an investment in the states future that will help keep tuition rates reasonable. Stinner, who chairs the committee, said he gets that some people want to bash the university. But he said that the NU campuses all spend less than their peer institutions and that a 3% overall hike in the budget was marginal. If thats too much, Ive got a problem with that analysis, he said. Train and history buffs can celebrate a milestone of modern engineering and transportation this week: Friday marks the 150th anniversary of the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad. On May 10, 1869, the Golden Spike ceremony was held in Promontory Summit, Utah, to symbolize the joining of the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroad routes. With more than 1,700 miles of tracks, the Transcontinental Railroad connected the coasts of the United States. It revolutionized travel and transportation of goods and hastened development of the rugged west. And Union Pacifics Mile 0 starts in Council Bluffs. Throughout the next several months, the Council Bluffs Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Union Pacific Museum will hold numerous commemorative events to reflect on the citys role in the railroad, the workers who toiled away laying track and the Native American tribes displaced by railway construction and the settlement that followed. The landlord of the Yale Park Apartments can begin renting units again after making repairs in one building. Last week at the citys Property Maintenance Appeals Board meeting, property owner Kay Anderson was authorized to rent four units in Yale Parks Building A. Omaha Chief Housing Inspector Scott Lane said Anderson complied with code and remedied all violations on that property, including filing for building permits. The building passed inspection and Anderson can rent the units immediately. It was all exactly according to the policies, procedures and the ways things are supposed to work, Lane said. We would like everybody to comply and get everything back on the appropriate tax rolls and in good standing. Hes doing that little by little. Anderson could not be reached for comment Wednesday. Lane said Anderson will come before the board again in 90 days. By then, Lane expects Anderson to have a second building with more units complete and inspected. One issue is a ban on congressional earmarks for specific projects. Fortenberrys proposal would increase Air Force accounts for the purpose of repairing bases damaged by natural disasters, which would presumably be used to help Offutt. Assuming that a new funding bill passes the House this week, it would still need to be approved by the Senate, where negotiators are now grappling with the fresh issue of border funding. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., said Congress needs to approve that money for the border but could do so with a different vehicle. It needs to be addressed, Fischer said. I dont know if it needs to be included in a bill like this. It obviously has to be in something thats going to move. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said rolling border-related funding into the bill would probably make it more difficult to pass a measure thats already struggling to move forward. This political dispute over disaster money, and particularly as it relates to Puerto Rico, is pretty surprising to me, Grassley said. You dont run into this very often. The situation is not entirely unprecedented, however. Food Bank for the Heartland is partnering with Christ the King Lutheran Church to host a free mobile food pantry from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the church at 7308 S. 42nd St. About 4,000 to 6,000 pounds of food will be available, including canned goods, pasta, grains, produce and breads. People are asked to bring their own bags or boxes. No identification is required. Boil-water order lifted for Pacific Junction Authorities on Friday lifted the boil-water order in Pacific Junction, Iowa, after tests indicated that it was no longer necessary, according to Glenwood Municipal Utilities. Sewer service was not available Friday. The utility said people should refrain from using bathrooms and drains. Anyone wishing to have their water service restored should go to the Glenwood Municipal Utilities office at 7 North Vine St. in Glenwood from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Someone should be at the residence when the water is turned on, the utility said. People planning to demolish their home were asked to contact Glenwood Municipal Utilities first so workers can remove water meters and related units. Homeowners still in need of cleanup assistance can call the Crisis Cleanup Hotline at 833-556-2476. In addition, homeowners can find more information at heartlandchurchnetwork.com. More than $2 million raised through Farm Bureau fund More than $2 million has been collected for the Nebraska Farm Bureau Disaster Relief Fund, said Steve Nelson, Farm Bureau president. All of the money raised will go to ranchers, farmers and rural communities needing help, he said. The kindness and generosity of people across Nebraska and the United States is humbling, he said. Yet despite the donations, the need continues to outstrip available resources, he said. Nebraska has sustained $440 million in crop losses and $400 million in cattle losses. Because of the Nebraska Farm Bureau Disaster Relief Fund, we were able to help more than 150 farmers from across the state and keep more than 10,000 head of cattle alive. This fund is truly making a difference. Sometimes this is a sense of loss associated with a classmate who has moved away. In some cases, that may be the loss of a parent or grandparent, he said. When there is a recent death of a child and classmate, this sense of loss is heightened. Fisher said that Reha will not be recognized at graduation and that Jurgens will not receive his high school diploma at that time. However, he said she will be given a diploma at some point later. We are going to issue a diploma just so that she has that keepsake, he said. He had not completed all of his coursework that he would have needed to receive a diploma. But we felt that as a memento to mom, it would be something we would be willing to do. Northwest senior Carley Cuba said the senior class would like to see Reha honored in some way. Friday, she and three other seniors organized a walkout to protest Reha not being honored at graduation. Cuba said the decision to have the walkout was kind of last-minute, but the news of it spread around Northwest really fast, especially after it was posted on social media. Interstate 29 has reopened with some restrictions from the Glenwood, Iowa, interchange to Missouri. All lanes of I-29 also opened Wednesday morning in northwest Missouri. The stretch of Interstate has been closed since March floods damaged the highway, cutting off the major north-south route and the main highway passage from the Omaha metro area to Kansas City. But construction crews have made steady progress on repairs, leading to Wednesday mornings announcements of the reopenings. Officials had targeted June for the reopening in Iowa, then recently moved up the schedule to Memorial Day. The reopening in Iowa covers the route from U.S. Highway 34 near Glenwood to the Missouri border. I-29 north of Council Bluffs remains closed between the Crescent and Loveland interchanges. Drivers south of Council Bluffs can expect occasional lane closures and head-to-head traffic for 1 mile over a southbound bridge at mile marker 8.5, according to the Nebraska Department of Transportation. FREDERICKSBURG, Va. - Conway Elementary School fourth-grader Jackson Payne was recognized as a hero this week by Staffords emergency responders for not only saving his mothers life, but also his younger brothers in a separate incident several days later. The first happened April 9, when Jennifer Payne of Stafford County met her two sonsJackson and Zacharyat the bus stop to walk them home. It was not the normal routine for Payne, who had been resting at home due to a lifelong medical condition. Since birth, Payne has had a rare congenital heart disease. I knew that things were going downhill, and I had been taking it easy hoping to get in with a specialist at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, but I went up to the bus stop anyway, instead of having my neighbor get the kids, Payne said. I was having chest pains on the way back home from the bus. Payne told 9-year-old Jackson, You have to help get mommy home, somethings not right. Jackson got his mother safely into the house, but on her way upstairs to lie down, Payne experienced massive chest pains and collapsed on the stairway, losing consciousness. The following editorial appeared in the Chicago Tribune. You stride purposefully into the living room and then your mind goes blank. You cant remember what you planned to do. Or you memorize a short grocery list. But when you arrive at the store all you can recall is yogurt. What else were you supposed to buy? Then there are those times you bump into whats-his-name at work. Or struggle to dredge up the title of that book you wanted to buy or the movie you saw last week. Such lapses are presumed to be a normal feature of the aging brain. They cant be helped. Or can they? Researchers at Northwesterns Feinberg School of Medicine and Boston University report tantalizing progress in related experiments to boost short- and longer-term memory. The first type is working memory. Thats whats used to remind yourself of a phone number you just heard, or to take your medication. Then theres longer-term memory that helps you recall something that happened weeks or years ago. The next species to go extinct may be some scruffy weed-like plant or weird little insect that you've never heard of. But that weed may synthesize a chemical that acts as a magic bullet against certain deadly cancers, or that insect may control the population of some other insect that harbors a plague-like virus. We'll never know. They'll be gone. Amphibians, marine mammals and corals are critically endangered, the report says. If you dream of a trip to see the Great Barrier Reef, I wouldn't put it off. A summary of the report by the U.N.-sponsored Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services was released Monday in Paris, culminating years of work by leading environmental scientists around the globe. Its findings will be widely noted and lamented; its recommendations, I fear, widely ignored. For once, human-induced climate change is not the most egregious cause of a slow-motion global catastrophe. The primary cause of accelerating species loss, according to the report, is rapid change in patterns of land- and sea-usage. Farming, fishing, logging, mining and other activities are changing -- in many cases, deeply scarring -- the natural world. I have been assaulted by Rabri Devi, driven out of her house: Tej Pratap's wife Aishwarya Rai An emotional note from Tej Pratap Yadav to his younger brother Tejashwi Yadav India oi-Madhuri Adnal Patna, May 08: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav's elder son Tej Pratap Yadav on Wednesday posted on Twitter an emotional message for his younger brother, Tejashwi Yadav, calling him his 'courage' and 'support'. Taking to Twitter, Tej Pratap Yadav said while referring to his younger brother said,''You are my courage, support and is also dear to him more than life.'' He also lauded his younger brother for always working with the aim to keep his sibling and his family happy. The tweet has received more than 2,000 'likes' and more than 200 'retweets' at the time of publishing of the article. The message comes almost a month after Tej Pratap broke away from the RJD and floated his own party called 'Lalu Rabri Morcha' over alleged differences with the top leadership of the RJD, with Tejashwi at the helm of its affairs. Tej Pratap takes jibe at brother Tejashwi, makes veiled comparison with Duryodhan Tej Pratap Yadav launched the Morcha last month after allegedly being sidelined from the RJD. RJD chief Lalu Prasad has been undergoing treatment at a government hospital in Ranchi, after being convicted in fodder scam cases. As per the Grand Alliance seat-sharing formula for the Lok Sabha elections in Bihar, the RJD is contesting 19 seats, the Congress in nine, while smaller parties are in the fray for the remaining 12 seats, out of the total 40 constituencies in the state. Bengaluru: Cops launch manhunt to trace suspicious Metro visitor who refused security check India oi-Madhuri Adnal Bengaluru, May 08: The Bengaluru police are on a manhunt for a man, wearing a long 'Kandoor' or 'thawb' or 'dishdasha' (the long flowing garment worn in Arab countries) carrying a bag with him who refused to be frisked at the Majestic Metro Station for the regular security check on Monday evening and also offered money to a housekeeping staff at the metro station for a 'job'. In a scary incident that occurred at around 7.30 pm on Monday, May 6, at the Kempegowda (Majestic) Metro station in the city, a man in his forties was found to possess a suspicious object in his waist during the metal detector test. When the security personnel questioned him on the object, he escaped from the station. Bengaluru: Man slaps 35-year-old woman at petrol pump after altercation It is learnt that the man entered the Metro station and the security guard on duty observed him while passing through the metal detector. The detector made a sound and spotted that the man is in possession of a suspicious metal object near his waist. The security guard asked the person to pass through the metal detector again. The detector sounded the same the second time also. When the guard questioned the man about the contents of the bag, the man replied with the word 'paisa' and started moving away from the station entrance. Later, the security personnel brought this to the notice of the higher officials. Ravi D Channanavar, DCP of Bengaluru West who rushed to the spot, conducted the inspection and has provided high alert to the train station. Meanwhile, the Upparpet police has taken up a case of the security incident at Majestic, based on information provided by BMRCL. Chief PRO of the BMRCL Mr B.L. Yeshwanth Chavan said, "We have shared the CCTV footage with the police about the incident. The police are investigating the case." The security alert is on high throughout the country after the serial bomb blasts on the Easter Day at Sri Lanka. After Bofors, Modi now rakes up 1984 anti-Sikh riots to corner Congress India oi-Vikas SV Chandigarh, May 07: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday intensified his attack on the Congress over national security and said the grand old party did not have a clear defence policy. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, meanwhile, continued her relentless attack on PM Modi, calling him a threat to 'freedom and democracy'. Speaking on the UN imposed sanctions on terrorist Masood Azhar, Modi, in Fatehabad, Haryana, said Congress could not do it even after 5-6 years of trying to do it because they didn't have a clear policy on it. Want to give Modi a tight slap of democracy: Mamata on Tolabaazi jibe "Can any country become a world leader without strengthening its defence policy? Has Congress or any other party spoken about this in any of their rallies? They won't tell because their past is such that they cannot speak on nation's defence. Before 2014, there were terror attacks but the weak Congress govt used to only give statements," Modi said. Congress manifesto speaks of repealing the special powers given to the armed forces in J&K if it forms government after elections, the Prime Minister said. "It means Congress is talking about giving free run to those who throw stones and terrorists," he added. Modi said after five phases of election, the Congress-led opposition has given up the fight and the "situation is clear" now that the BJP will form government at the Centre. He said with the blessings of the people, the BJP-led NDA formed the government in 2014 and in the past five years, India's stature has increased in the world. "Now, the situation is quite clear, with the blessings of countrymen, when results will be out by May 23 evening, it will once again be 'Phir ek Bar (Modi government again)'," the prime minister said in a rally in Fatehabad. "The Congress and their 'mahamilavati' allies have given up the fight, and their intention to form a 'kichdi aur majboor sarkar' in Delhi has fallen flat," Modi said. He alleged that the Congress has done "brashtachar ki kheti " and the proof is in Haryana and elsewhere. Referring to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, Modi said that the process of punishing the guilty Congress leaders had already been initiated by the BJP government. Prime Minister Modi said the Congress had made a leader accused in the 1984 riots the chief minister of a state after winning the assembly elections last year instead of ensuring that he was punished. The prime minister's swipe was aimed at Madhya Pradesh chief minister Kamal Nath, who the BJP alleges, had a role to play in the riots. Addressing a rally in West Bengal's Debra, Mamata Banerjee launched a blistering attack on PM Modi. She said Modi wants to change the history and geography of the country. With an apology, Mamata expresses shock at Modi's 'audacity' "There will be no freedom and democracy if we don't change Modi.He will change the history and geography of the country.There will be no elections in future.There is an emergency in the country and no one can speak freely," she said. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal asked why Priyanka Gandhi does not campaign in states where there is a direct fight between the Congress and the BJP. "She (Priyanka Gandhi) is wasting her time, why doesn't she campaign in Rajasthan and MP? She is doing rallies in UP against SP-BSP, she is doing rallies in Delhi against AAP. Both the brother and the sister are not going to those places where there is direct fight with BJP," ANI quoted Kejriwal as saying. Duryodhan, Dushasana, Dhritrashtra are poll issues in the 2019 Mahabharat Feature oi-Deepika S New Delhi, May 08: In an election time charged with rhetoric, it is natural for political opponents to trade barbs by drawing unflattering comparisons with unsavoury mythological characters. With just two phases left for counting - on May 23 - the verbal duels are only intensifying further. Now you may not be interested in mythology or the prowess of either 'Duryodhana' or 'Arjuna'. But both characters have certainly coloured the political campaign. Priyanka likens Modi to Duryodhan This was started by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's comments against her father Rajiv Gandhi, said "the same kind of arrogance caused the downfall of Duryodhan". Likening the Prime Minister to the main villain of the epic Mahabharata, the Congress leader also warned that the country has never forgiven arrogance. "They insult my family when they don't get any other issue. This country has never forgiven arrogance. History is proof of this. Mahabharat is also proof of this. This kind of arrogance was in Duryodhan too. When Lord Krishna went to him and put the reality in front of him and tried to talk to him, he tried to capture Lord Krishna too," Priyanka Gandhi said at a rally in Haryana's Ambala to campaign for the national election. Mamata echoes Priyanka Ridiculing Modi for promising people good administration, Mamata said Modi and Amit Shah were like "Duryadhana and Dushashan" - the two villainous brothers of Mahabharata. Sushma Swaraj slams Priyanka Gandhi, Mamata for comparing PM Modi to Duryodhana Amit Shah comes up with Arjuna to counter Priyanka The reaction from the BJP was quick. Its president Amit Shah said in Bengal's Bishnupur: "Priyanka just called PM Modi Duryodhan'. Priyanka ji, this is democracy, nobody becomes 'Duryodhana' just because you called them so. The country will decide on May 23 who is Duryodhan and who is Arjun." Yechury likens PM Modi, Amit Shah with "Duryodhana, Dushasana" Communist Party of India-Marxist general secretary Sitaram Yechury called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP president Amit Shah - "Duryodhana and Dushasana", the characters of the Hindu epic Mahabharata. "Of 100 Kauravas, you just remember the name of two brothers Duryodhana and Dushasana. In the world's biggest party, how many names do you remember? Modi-Amit Shah. What Kauravas faced in Mahabharata, the same situation is now panning out in political Mahabharata here," Yechury said. JD(U) leader likens Misa Bharti to Shurpanakha A leader of the ruling JD(U) in Bihar on Sunday stirred a controversy by comparing RJD president Lalu Prasad's eldest daughter Misa Bharti to Shurpanakha, the sister of the demon king Ravana who was depicted as a seductress in the epic Ramayana. "(In the Ramayana) Bharat had marched to the forest and implored Lord Rama to return. But today, the situation is reverse. The younger brother is in a position of power, the elder one has been forced to live in exile and Shurpanakha is being denied even a small territory," Kumar tweeted. Although the JD(U) leader took no names, his tweet was an obvious reference to the ascendance of Tejashwi Yadav as the party's de facto leader in the absence of Lalu Prasad, who is serving sentence in fodder scam cases. 'Sitas and Radhas in RJD' Responding to Sanjay Singh's remarks, RJD spokesperson Vijay Prakash said that the JD(U) was a family of devils, a throwback to the Asuras, led by Ravana. "We have Sitas and Radhas in RJD. On the contrary, JD(U) nurtures devils and evil spirits. These evil spirits only look for opportunities to harm others," Prakash said. "Dhritrashtra" reference In July last year, the Congress had referred to the PM as "Dhritrashtra" - the blind Mahabharata king. "Sensing defeat in 2019 general elections, Prime Minister Modi has become blind like Dhritarashtra due to his lust for power. By spreading hatred and pursuing divisive politics, he is aiming to win the election," Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala had said, adding, "BJP's sole aim is to grab power. Power-hungry BJP is playing the role of Duryodhan." For the first time since CISCE's inception, 2 students score 100% in class 12th ISC exam India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, May 08: Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) announced the ICSE and ISC exam 2019 results yesterday and for the first time two students scored 100 percent marks in the ISC class 12 exams since the board's inception in 1958. The Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) is a privately held national-level board of school education in India that conducts the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education and the Indian School Certificate examinations for Class X and Class XII respectively. It was established in 1958. Over 2,100 schools in India and abroad are affiliated to the CISCE. ICSE, ISC results 2019 declared, pass percentage is 98.54 The results of the ICSE class 10 and ISC class 12 were announced on Tuesday by Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) chief executive and secretary Gerry Arathoon. While girls achieved a pass percentage of 99.05 percent in class 10 examination as against 98.12 per cent by boys, the pass percentage achieved by girls in class 12 examination is 97.84 percent as against 95.40 per cent of boys, a PTI report said. Mumbai's Juhi Rupesh Kajaria and Muktsar's Manhar Bansal topped the class 10 ISCE examination with 99.60 per cent. The second rank has been shared by ten students with 99.40 per cent marks and the third rank has been shared by 24 students with 99.20 per cent marks. Kolkata's Dewang Kumar Agarwal and Bengaluru's Vibha Swaminathan topped the class 12 ISC examination with 100 per cent marks. The second rank has been shared by 16 students with 99.75 percent and the third rank has been shared by 36 students with 99.50 per cent marks. How Delhi University professors are sparing over Modis Rajiv remarks India oi-Oneindia Staff By Anuj Cariappa New Delhi, May 08: Delhi University professors got into a war of words over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks about late Rajiv Gandhi, with one section condemning the comments and another supporting him. As many as 207 DU teachers issued a statement on Monday night against Modi for making "derogatory and untrue" remarks about former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. It was followed a statement by 121 teachers on Tuesday in favour of Modi and accusing Gandhi of "corruption". The statements from the two sections came after Modi had targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale issue in a rally on Saturday, where he said: "Your father was termed 'Mr Clean' by his courtiers, but his life ended as corrupt number 1." "Narendra Modi has lowered the dignity of the office of the prime minister by making derogatory and untrue remarks about the late Rajivji, who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation," the signed statement read. No prime minister has ever "stooped" to this level through such actions as has Modi. The nation acknowledges the achievements of the former prime minister, they said. The statement had references to the role of the Bofors gun in the 1999 Kargil conflict and the telecom revolution. "When India beat back the invaders from Kargil, our soldiers shouted slogans praising Rajiv Gandhi for the Bofors gun even though Rajivji had been martyred a decade ago," the statement read. "If our IT companies earn each year billions of dollars in foreign revenue, it is because of the farsighted wisdom of Rajivji. If India is connected as a nation through the advances in the telecom sector it is because of the policies and actions of Rajivji," it said. No literal violation of MCC: EC clean chit to Modi over 'bhrashtachari' jibe at Rajiv Gandhi According to the statement, if train travel is so much more convenient today, it is because of Rajiv Gandhi's acumen in computerising rail reservation. "History records the deeds of the good and the noble, but rarely does it pay attention to the carping of lesser individuals," it added. The statement was also signed by former Delhi University Teachers' Association (DUTA) president Aditya Narayan Misra, two DU executive council members, three academic council members, the DUTA vice-president and joint secretary, and a member of the varsity's finance committee. A media report claimed that two teachers did not sign the letter, but they did not respond to messages and calls. Another section of the teachers fully supported Modi "for bringing into public attention the regime of corruption in big defence deals started during Rajiv Gandhi's tenure". "(The) Bofors deal became a symbol of official corruption; it initiated a trend which had consistently been followed by Congress-led governments. Scandals like 2G, Coalgate, CWG, and now Scorpene Submarine scandal directly involving Rahul Gandhi are all the natural corollaries of Bofors tradition," the statement read. "The subsequent remote-controlled Manmohan Singh's UPA government even defroze the accounts of Gandhi's family friend swindler Ottavio Quattrocchi," they said. They accused Rajiv Gandhi of beginning his term as prime minister "by justifying wanton murder of thousands of Sikhs in 1984 -- an officially sponsored pogrom". "Rajiv Gandhi as PM was responsible for letting Warren Anderson Chairman of Union Carbide escape justice in the Bhopal Tragedy episode. "His company was responsible for the death of thousands of poor Bhopal residents -- most died instantaneously and thousands later owing cancer and other diseases caused by poisonous gas leaks. PM Modi has rightly pointed the darker side of Rajiv Gandhi. He can't escape historical critique," they said. The statement by some DU teachers wants everyone not to point out any finger at Rajiv Gandhi, whereas they refer to the Modi in the most foul language on a daily basis, it read "The fact that Sh. Rajiv Gandhi was awarded a Bharat Ratna- Jawaharlal Nehru and all his PM progenies had been so awarded- cannot prevent future analysts to critique his contribution to organised corruption and Congress supported genocide of Sikhs in 1984," the statement added. Bengaluru bound IAF's AN-32 aircraft overruns runway in Mumbai, no injuries India oi-Vikas SV Mumbai, May 08: An Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-32 plane overran a runway while taking-off from Mumbai airport yesterday evening, said reports. The plane was departing for Yelahanka Air Force base in Bengaluru when it overshot the runway. According to reports, the authorities said that IAF aircraft AN-32 was departing for Yelahanka Air Force near Bengaluru, Karnataka when the incident happened. No one got injured in the incident. Runway 27 at Mumbai Airport which was overan by IAF aircraft AN-32 is currently shut down for operations. Now, Mumbai airport becomes first to scrap boarding pass stamping "We confirm, departing Air force Aircraft had runway excursion at 2339 hours at RWY 27," ANI reported Airport authorities as saying. No injury was reported after the AN-32 aircraft overran runway 27 at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport late on Tuesday night, officials said. The Antonov An-32 is a twin-engined turboprop military transport aircraft. On July 22, 2016, an Indian Air Force An-32 travelling from Chennai to Port Blair went missing above the Bay of Bengal with 29 people on board. The plane had left the Tambaram air base near Chennai at 8.30 am. It went missing from radar at 9.12 am, 280 km east of Chennai. Eight were personnel from Visakhapatnam-based Naval Science and Technological Laboratory's Naval Armament Depot. On June 10, 2009, an Indian Air Force, An-32 transport aircraft carrying 13 people crashed shortly after it took off from Mechukha in Arunachal Pradesh. All 13 people on board were killed. The importance of arresting Bengal origin naxal, Kishan da who had Rs 1 crore bounty on his head In a positive development 30 surrendered lady naxals recruited into police force India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Bastar, May 08: In a positive development, the Chhattisgarh police have for the first time recruited 30 surrendered women naxals into a commando unit in Dantewada. Danteshwari Ladake, the platoon of the district reserve guard operates in the jungles of the Malinger area. This is the same area where a BJP MLA, a Doordarshan journalist and police personnel were killed by naxals a few months back. The District Reserve Guards are the front line fighters and mainly comprise tribals, surrendered naxalites and also members of the special police forces. Gadchiroli attack: Naxals were aware security forces hired private vehicle The recruitment of the surrendered woman naxalites is not only aimed at fighting, but also to lure others to surrender. They have been given special anti-naxal training and are now battle ready. These commandos would come in handy when it comes to arresting women naxalites and this would also help address the long standing problem of alleged harassment and human rights violations. Further this unit would help in the gathering of intelligence as they are already well versed with the area, terrain and the operation of the naxalites. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 8:19 [IST] How Khalistan terrorists in Canada are effecting targeted killings in Punjab J&K: Terrorists fire upon two civilians at Zainapora area of Shopian India oi-Madhuri Adnal Shopian, May 08: Terrorists fired upon two civilians at Zainapora area of Shopian on Wednesday evening. Both the injured have been shifted to a hospital in the area. The ultras shot at two civilians at Zainapora in Shopian, resulting in injuries to them, a police official said. Accoding to reports, the gunmen barged inside a chemist shop in Zainapora at around 3 pm and fired upon Irfan Hameed and Muzafar Ahmad. J&K: Terrorist hideout busted in Ganderbal, ammunition seized Both of them suffered injuries in the attack following which they were shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment where from they were referred to district hospital Anantnag in critical condition. Soon after the incident a joint team of army and SOG launched a cordon-and-search operation in the area to nab the assailants. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 16:30 [IST] Lack of free hand aided growth of terror down South: Former R&AW officer India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 08: Radicalisation and terror down south has been a major concern. The fact of the matter is that there was always a danger lurking and it is also a fact that the agencies reacted late in this part of the country. Was it due to the late reactions that let terror and radicalisation flourish in South India. Former officer of the Research and Analysis Wing, Amar Bhushan says that it is unfair to accuse the agencies of reacting late in South India. Let us put this thing in perspective and the fact is that the agencies never got a free hand to act against radicalisation and terrorism down South, he tells OneIndia. When there are governments which latch on to support from Muslim dominated parties, there is very little support one can expect. It was extremely difficult to act in South India, Bhushan also says. From 'Babyboy to Snickers,' here are the handles used by ISIS to radicalise Indian Muslims There was a definite hesitation to take on the extremists. Take the case of Bhatkal for instance. It was infested with extremists. Agency units were set up very late and the role of the state police, the less said the better. There is a kind of denying tolerance towards the extremist activities. When there is a government which does not want to go all out, then what can one expect, Bhushan asks. If the government at the centre and the state does not cooperate, it is impossible to take all out action. "Look at the free hand given to the National Investigation today. The agency is going all out against the radical activities in South India and I must say they are doing a commendable job. Moreover they are not restricting themselves only to South. They are in Bengal and a whole lot of other states," the former R&AW official says. "As a police personnel, I can tell you that if you are not given a free hand, you really cannot operate. If you decide to go ahead, you will never know when you will get tripped," he further adds. 46 still missing: The Islamic State story in India and how it stands "I can tell you this that we wanted to operate aggressively in Pakistan, but were never allowed to do it. Moreover for permission for surveillance, we always had to go to the Home Ministry and seek approval after giving a lot of explanation. You cannot keep running to the MHA all the time." "The NIA is today successful because of surveillance measures that they have taken. The thing is, if you have created an agency, then let it run freely. Surveillance is the heart of an operation and absolutely needed to monitor extremist elements." Political squabble and violence shrouded Bengal during LS poll 2019 Feature oi-Mousumi Dash Kolkata, May 08: The biggest festival of Indian democracy- the general election 2019 has commenced from 11th April 2019 that is underway and will finally end on 19th May 2019 to constitute the 17th Lok Sabha. West Bengal is polling in seven phases in this Lok Sabha poll 2019, the highest number of phases as of now, along with Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The division of phases largely points towards ECI's efforts to mobilise security forces on poll day to ensure 'free and fair election' in the state. Trinamool Congress is the single largest party in West Bengal since 2011, defeating CPI (M) that had governed the state for more than three decades. But, Bharatiya Janata Party's enormous victories in the North-eastern states, have made it more confident and will make it a potent force in the state. BJP has increased its vote share from 4% in 2011 to 17% in 2014 general elections and is hopeful of winning seats in North Bengal and the region bordering Jharkhand, and some seats in North 24 Parganas. Hence, this Lok Sabha election is undoubtedly crucial for both the parties- the TMC and the Saffron brigade. Why is BJP after Hoodas in Haryana? All these 42 crucial Lok Sabha seats are up for grabs. EC keeps an eagle eye on every booth as reports of clashes were observed in some polling booths in West Bengal during the phase 1 to phase 5 of this general election. The following incidents that took place during all the five phases of general election 2019 has disparaged Bengal politics: LS polls 2019 phase 1- The first phase of general election 2019 took place on April 11 and no major clash were reported on this day in West Bengal. The voting percentage for the first phase in West Bengal was recorded 81%. LS polls 2019 phase 2- April 18, on the second phase of the general election while overall voting ended smoothly, there were a few minor unexpected incidents in which a Congress activist was killed in a clash with rival CPM supporters while police took 35 people into custody, of which 32 were preventive arrests. Reports also claims that a polling agent of a CPM candidate in Murshidabad was taken into custody after 25 postal ballots were found in his possession. Duryodhan, Dushasana, Dhritrashtra are poll issues in the 2019 Mahabharat Party activists of CPM and the Congress reportedly clashed outside a polling station at Beldanga of Murhisdabad district, leading into their arrests. A presiding officer in Ranaghat South constituency in Nadia district was replaced for influencing voters inside the polling station and another officer in Bharatpur constituency in Murshidabad district was replaced after he fell sick. LS polls 2019 Phase 3- The third phase of Lok Sabha 2019 election was held on April 23. Reportedly, in West Bengal's Murshidabad, a voter was hacked to death at a polling booth during a conflict between the Congress and Trinamool Congress parties. Few others were also injured in the clashes in some other parts of the state as polling was held in five different constituencies. Explosives were reportedly hurled outside a booth in Balurghat in West Bengal, the forces lathicharged a mob in Suti area of Jangipur. Reports of conflict were also noticed in the conflicting areas like Chopra and Islampur. LS polls 2019 phase 4- Clashes broke out in Asansol area of West Bengal hours later the fourth phase of the general election began on April 29. Violent clashes and political squabble shrouded the fourth phase. Major incidents that took place on this day were - BJP candidate and union leader Babul Supriyo's vehicle was reportedly vandalized outside a polling booth. According to report, places like Suri and Nalhati (Birbhum), Nanoor (Bolpur) and Barabani (Asansol) saw pitched battles between party workers involving sharp weapons and sticks. The Congress candidate and incumbent MP Adhir Chowdhury alleged he was forced to chase away some people who allegedly came to cast fake votes in KN College in Berhampore. LS polls 2019 phase 5- Sporadic incidents of violence were reported on May 6 during polling in the fifth phase of Lok Sabha election in West Bengal. Violence and snags in EVMs were reported as voters queued up outside booths in the initial hours on this day. On this day the heaviest polling was recorded in this state- 73.97%-for seven seats that went to the polls. Reportedly, several journalist who were attacked allegedly by the TMC workers. The Editors Guild of India has urged the Election Commission to take action against those who attacked journalists in West Bengal during the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 6. As the polling proceeded reports of violence started soaring from constituencies like Barrackpore, Howrah and Hooghly. Barrackpore BJP candidate Arjun Singh was allegedly injured after a clash erupted between the TMC and the BJP workers. Singh also alleged that the miscreants were trying to intimidate voters. On this crucial day reports of violence also came from Bongaon constituency. Explosives were hurled at police forces in which a police constable and a TMC worker were critically injured. Locket Chatterjee, the BJP candidate in Hooghly claimed that the state police forces were encouraging and facilitating rigging in some booths at Dhanekhali area in Hooghly district of West Bengal. Hindutva touches a feverish pitch in Bhopal However, the presiding officer denied such allegations and said that 712 of around 1200 votes were already polled when Chatterjee stormed into the polling booth and accused the officials of rigging. Following the allegation, a miscreant took a chance of entering the booth and breaking the EVM. In another incident on this day TMC candidate, Prasun Bandyopadhyay was reportedly heckled near a polling booth in Howrah. Now, the eyes are at the sixth phase poll which will held on May 12 is perhaps the most crucial one in West Bengal, as most of these constituencies are dominated by tribals. Remembering Swami Chinmayananda who spread the knowledge of Advaita Vedanta on his birth anniversary Feature oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, May 08: Swami Chinmayananda was an emminent spiritual personality who inspired lakhs and founded the Chinmaya Mission which propogates the knowledge in Upanishads in India and abroad. Chinmaya Mission's motto is "to give maximum happiness to maximum people for maximum time." Chinmaya Mission, a spiritual, educational, and charitable non-profit organization, hasover 313 mission centres all over India and abroad. Swami Chinmayananda, who was born on May 8, 1916, devouted his life to spread the knowledge of Advaita Vedanta, the non-dual system of thought found in the Upanishads, which epitomise the philosophical teachings of the Vedas. He authored 95 publications, including commentaries on the major Upanishad and Bhagavad Gita. He was a visiting professor of Indian philosophy at several American and Asian universities and he conducted university lecture tours in many countries. Mahavir Jayanti 2019: Know about the festival Swami Chinmayananda, whose birth name was Balakrishna Menon, was born in Ernakulam, Kerala, May 8, 1916. He completed his formal schooling in Sree Rama Varma High School, Kochi and Vivekodayam School, Thrissur. He completed his FA (Fellow of Arts) at the Maharaja's College, Ernakulam and his BA at the St. Thomas College, Trichur . He went to Lucknow University for Post Graduation. Swami Chinmayananda later acquire a degree in English Literature, plunge into the Freedom Movement of India against British rule. In 1944, almost two years after the British had issued his arrest warrant, believing his case was long forgotten, Balan arrived in Punjab and associated himself with several freedom groups. He advised students on distributing leaflets and organising public strikes but was arrested and imprisoned. He spent several months in unhygienic conditions in prison and caught typhus. Balan slowly recovered his health. K. Rama Rao gave Balan his first job, as a journalist at The National Herald, a young newspaper that had been founded a few years back by Jawaharlal Nehru. He wrote a series of articles on the imperative of socialism. It was while working as a journalist that he travelled to Sivananda's ashram in Rishikesh for this purpose of writing an expose of the sadhus. With Sivananda's blessing, Chinmayananda sought out one of the greatest Vedantic masters of his time, Tapovan Maharaj of Uttarkashi, and devoted the next few years of his life to an intensive study of Vedanta under his tutelage. Chinmayananda held his first lecture series at a Ganesha temple in the city of Pune in December 1951. At the end of the second jnana yajna in Madras in 1953, a handful of people expressed the desire to create a forum for the study and discussion of Vedanta. Chinmayananda agreed in principle. The Madras group insisted that the best way to "pass it on" was through the support of a forum. They wrote back pointing out that the word "Chinmaya" did not have to indicate Chinmayananda's name, since, in Sanskrit, the word itself means "pure Knowledge," which they were seeking. He conceded. On 8 August 1953, the Chinmaya Mission was formed. What does Chinmaya Mission teach? Chinmaya Mission follows the Vedic teacher-student tradition (guru-shishya parampara) and makes available the ageless wisdom of Advaita Vedanta, the knowledge of universal oneness, providing the tools to realize the wisdom in one's life. Kamal Nath 'Spiritual Department' replaces Shivraj Chouhan's Happiness Vedanta, the essential core of Hinduism, is the universal science of life, relevant to all people of all backgrounds and faiths. Vedanta inspires seekers to understand their own faith better. Thus, although Chinmaya Mission is a Hindu organisation, it does not seek to convert other religious practitioners. As a spiritual movement that aims for inner growth at individual and collective levels, the mission offers a wide array of Vedanta study forums for all ages, promotes Indian classical art forms and operates numerous social service projects. To date, millions worldwide have benefitted directly or indirectly from Chinmaya Mission's numerous centres, ashrams, classes, events, services and projects. (Source - chinmayamission.com/Wikipedia) Telangana BJP slams CM KCR over 'fraudulent documentation' of 400 Aadhar cards in the state Wont let you rest until cess on fuel is withdrawn: KCR tells Centre Roadblocks before KCR 's dream of becoming PM India oi-Hardeep Singh Bedi New Delhi, May 08: Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) supremo and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) is a player in the Indian politics who is being closely watched by the political analysts and media during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. KCR has made his plans public of forming a Federal Front to give the country a non-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and non-Congress government. He is aiming to bring the Left parties, Janata Dal (S) of Deve Gowda, Trinamool Congress (TMC) of Mamata Banerjee, Samajwadi Party (SP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Biju Janta Dal (BJD), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and other non-BJP, non-Congress regional parties under the umbrella of the Federal Front. Though KCR has publically stated that he is not vying for the post of Prime Minister, but a source close to a family member of the TRS chief tells One India that after achieving goal of separate Telangana, KCR 's only dream is to become Prime Minister. KCR's federal front dream: Will Stalin play spoilsport The TRS chief knows his Federal Front will come to existence if the BJP led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) fails to achieve the majority after the results of Lok Sabha elections are out on May 23. If this happens then the first roadblock that the KCR will face is that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has already kept Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in waiting to be presented as next Prime Minister to get support of other parties if they are reluctant to rally behind Narendra Modi. His intense desire to become PM will become the second biggest hurdle, says a political analyst. Answering a hypothetical question what will happen if the Federal Front is in a position to form next government, the analyst says then also KCR's dream is unlikely to be fulfilled because he comes from a state that has only 17 Lok Sabha seats. "Such a situation can only arise if BSP-SP sweep Uttar Pradesh, TMC West Bengal, and BJD Odisha, which have 80, 42, and 21 Lok Sabha seats respectively. Only KCR and not anyone else can think that Mayawati, Mamata Banerjee, or Naveen Patnaik will allow him to become PM," says the analyst. In his latest move to form the Federal Front, KCR on Monday met Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Calling the meeting "highly significant", Vijayan said, "KCR discussed the national political scenario. According to KCR, both fronts (NDA and UPA) may not get the majority and so regional parties will get a prominent role... There were no discussions about Prime Ministerial Candidate." KCR also had a telephonic conversation with Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy. A statement from Telangana Chief Minister's Office (CMO) has said that KCR would meet the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin at his residence here on May 13. However, the meeting is unlikely as the DMK would not like to irk its partner Congress. Reportedly, Stalin will be busy campaigning for the bye-elections to the four Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu on May 19. It was Stalin who had proposed the name of Congress President Rahul Gandhi as the next Prime Minister of India. Revival of third front plan? Telangana CM KCR meets Pinarayi Vijayan According to the sources, KCR has not lost hope in Tamil Nadu that sends 39 Members of Parliament to the Lok Sabha. "KCR is still hopeful of roping in DMK if the Federal Front comes in a position of playing a decisive role in the national politics after May 23 as no one is a permanent friend or foe in politics," says a source. He also plans to meet Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. However, the wind flowing from West Bengal may not suit KCR as Mamata Banerjee and Congress President Rahul Gandhi seem to have developed a soft corner for each other. Though both have been fighting elections in West Bengal separately, they have ganged up against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. It's notable that the Congress has termed the Federal Front as a B Team of the BJP. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 17:22 [IST] Robert Vadra pens Facebook post to PM Modi, says stop making personal attacks against me India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, May 08: Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra on May 8 accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of launching personal attacks on him and levelling allegations against him to "digress" from the "glaring" issues facing the country. In a Facebook post opposing Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoking his name in a rally, Robert Vadra said that he has been at the receiving end of harassment at the hands of the BJP-led government at the Centre. He requested Modi to respect the judicial system by stopping personal attacks. "11 times being summoned to depose each of 8 to 11 hours with the Enforcement Directorate, in different parts of the country, Court depositions and related orders, etc. BUT NOT ONE allegation has been proven (sic)," he said. No wish to join politics right now: Robert Vadra Vadra said he wondered "what did he want to achieve by invoking my name, again and again". "Simply the nation knows my name is repeatedly used in elections to digress from the failures of your government and their own misdeeds," Vadra alleged. Earlier in the day, Modi without naming anyone, said at the rally,"This chowkidar has brought the corrupt who looted farmers' land in Delhi and Haryana to the gates of jails. Those who behaved as if they were kings have been made to run around the ED and the courts. With your blessings, justice will be done to the farmers and the corrupt will be put behind bars.'' Watch woman thrashing man with slippers for posing as ACB officer, demanding Rs 50,000 India oi-Madhuri Adnal Jamshedpur, May 08: A woman publicly thrashed a man, Jamshedpur's Mango area on Tuesday, who posed as an Anti-Corruption Bureau Officer and demanded Rs 50,000 from her. A 46-second video of the incident, tweeted by ANI on Wednesday morning, first shows a man beating up the man in question with a stick. Soon after, the woman takes over and launches a volley of blows on him and beats him up with a slipper. #WATCH Jamshedpur: A woman thrashed a man, in Mango area, who posed as an Anti-Corruption Bureau Officer and demanded Rs 50,000 from her. The woman called him on the pretext of giving the money to get him arrested. Police is interrogating the man. #Jharkhand pic.twitter.com/98z9YDHOGd ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2019 The woman, Rakhi Sharma, claimed that Falendra Mehto, a resident of Chakulia in Ghatshila, allegedly posed as an ACB officer and would raid houses in various areas. Mehto also showed her his fake ID to convince about his identity. Sword, knife, documents among incriminating material seized by NIA in PFI related raid "We met him a few days ago. He used to come with women to raid houses in various areas. I also thought of working with him and sought his help to resolve my personal problem. For this, he asked me to pay Rs 50,000 for legal work. I called the ACB and learned that the person is fake as no officer can conduct raids without serving a legal notice," Sharma told ANI. The woman then called him on the pretext of giving the money to get him arrested. Police is interrogating the man. Meanwhile, an FIR has been registered against Falendra Mehto, a resident of Chakulia in Ghatshila for allegedly posing as an ACB officer and cheating people. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 15:32 [IST] True or false: Were surgical strikes carried out under the UPA India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, May 08: In response to BJP on surgical strikes, the Congress recently put out a list on the number of times similar strikes were conducted during its regime. However the Ministry of Defence has now said that it has no record of surgical strikes being conducted before 2016. The MoD was replying to an RTI query by a Jammu based activist, Rohit Chaudhary. He had asked if there were any strikes conducted between 2004 and 2014. In response, the ministry said that it had record of only one surgical strike conducted in September 2016. This was conducted 11 days after the Uri attack. No data on surgical strikes before 2016: Army refutes Congress claim The Congress had said that during its regime, six surgical strikes were carried out. However the BJP's General V K Singh said, "Congress has a habit of lying. Will you please let me know which surgical strikes are you attributing to during my tenure as COAS? Am sure you must have hired some Coupta to invent another story." The Congress said that during its tenure six surgical strikes were carried out, but it chose not to publicise it. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said that the strikes were conducted not as a vote garnering exercise, but as strategic deterrence. Bhopal hospital fire: 4 infants killed even before parents could name them What caused the fire in Bhopal hospital that killed 4 infants? Digvijaya Singh on BJP MLA's call to break legs of Congressmen: I'll go to his house to recite Ramdhun What were police personnel doing with saffron head scarves at Digvijayas road show India oi-Madhuri Adnal Bhopal, May 08: An FIR has been registered after a group of people who raised Modi slogans in Congress candidate Digvijaya Singh's roadshow in Bhopal. Digvijaya Singh has been fielded by the Congress party from the Bhopal Lok Sabha constituency against Malegaon blasts-accused Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur. In a huge embarrassment, the roadshow conducted by Digvijaya Singh and Computer Baba was dampened by chants of 'Modi, Modi'. Hindutva touches a feverish pitch in Bhopal Several police personnel were also reported to be wearing saffron scarves at the onset of the rally. When asked, one of the on-duty police personnel told news agency ANI that they were "made to wear this", following which objections were raised. On Tuesday, Digvijaya Singh had stirred another controversy as he had conducted a 'pooja' in presence of Sadhus who later said that they did not know it was a political campaign. Singh had performed a 'pooja' with Computer Baba and other Sadhus ahead of the Bhopal constituency Lok Sabha Elections. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 15:06 [IST] Why is BJP after Hoodas in Haryana? India oi-Hardeep Singh Bedi New Delhi, May 08: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is eyeing to defeat former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupender Singh Hooda and his son Deepender Singh Hooda in the Lok Sabha elections to finish Congress from the state, say sources. Of late, Hoodas have been the face of Congress in Haryana. Despite the Narendra Modi wave in 2014, Deepender won the Rohtak Lok Sabha seat, which was the lone success for the party in the state. Therefore, Rohtak has become the main battleground in the state. While Deepender is seeking the fourth term from Rohtak, Bhupendra Singh Hooda is contesting elections from Sonipat, where the BJP has fielded its sitting MP Ramesh Chander Kaushik. Why it may not be a bad outing for the BJP in UP after all Though the BJP has never won Rohtak seat, it won the Sonipat seat in 1999 and 2004. The present scenario in Rohtak is that Deepender is facing a stiff challenge from the BJP. The BJP candidate Arvind Sharma, a Brahmin, claims of having the support of 35 biradaris (castes) out of 36 as well as of Jats, who account for over 30 per cent of the 16 lakh voters. Since Hoodas are Jats, so they are confident of getting the support of dominant Jat community in Rohtak, a constituency that they nurtured during the Congress' 10-year rule in the State until 2014. Their biggest concern is whether they will get the support of non-Jat voters. There are around 3 lakh Scheduled Caste (SC), 1.75 lakh Ahir (Yadavs), 1.20 Punjabis, 1.35 Lakh Brahmins, 80000 Aggarwals and 3 lakh Other Backward Class (OBC) voters. It's notable that Bhupender Singh Hooda also represented Rohtak in the Lok Sabha in 1991, 1996, and 1998. The situation is conducive for the BJP this time in Rohtak as apart from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the 2016 Jat agitation is also a factor this time, a Haryana based journalist tells OneIndia. Though no candidate openly talks about the horrible Jat agitation of February 2016, both the Congress and the BJP are eyeing to derive benefit out of it. "The BJP has an edge in this regard as the non-Jat community is not ready to forget the sufferings due to the Jat agitation. The BJP feels that the Hoodas instigated Jats to destabilise Manohar Lal Khattar government in the state and that is why they are in the firing line of the BJP. If Hoodas are gone then the Congress will also go from the state," says the journalist. The Congress also realises importance of retaining the Rohtak seat and that is why Priyanka Gandhi Vadra held a roadshow on Tuesday. The main focus of the roadshow was to woo the different castes. Leaders of the different castes were given prominence in the posters and banners, says the journalist. According to her, it may prove costly for the Congress to consider that Jat voters are already in its kitty as Prime Minister Modi has become quite famous among the Jats in Rohtak. True or false: Were surgical strikes carried out under the UPA "Since Jats are known for their valour and don't like to bow before anyone, therefore, Prime Minister Modi has become popular among the Jats after the surgical strikes against Pakistan that were carried out in response to the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks," says the journo. "Many Jats feel that though Deepender is a good choice but even if he wins then he won't be able to do much for the constituency as the Congress is unlikely to form government at the centre," she adds. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address a rally in Rohtak on Friday, the last of campaigning as the voting for all the 10 seats of Haryana will be conducted on May 12. Why it may not be a bad outing for the BJP in UP after all India oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, May 08: One of the main factors behind the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) storming to power in 2014 was their performance in Uttar Pradesh where the saffron party won 73 out of the 80 seats. The BJP would like to repeat the performance in the politically most important state even this time around, but the equations in 2019 are different. The BSP and SP have joined hands and are set to give a stiff fight to the BJP. The vote share data from the last election shows that SP-BSP combined got more votes than the BJP in 2014, and this was probably one of the reasons Akhilesh and Mayawati decided to stitch an alliance. The Congress is going solo in UP and Priyanka Gandhi has been made in-charge of the Eastern UP, and she is bound to have an impact. Jats hold key for victory in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar The opinion polls and surveys show that the BJP may not be able to win as many seats in Uttar Pradesh as it did last time. The shortfall could be as many as 20 seats. Almost all the major surveys that came out before the MCC came into effect predicted that the BJP may win anywhere between 45-55 seats out of the 80 seats in UP. This shortfall would hurt the saffron party. We spoke to a veteran journalist who has been following the politics of Uttar Pradesh for over two decades, and he told OneIndia that things may not turnout to be that bad for the BJP as surveys have predicted. Significant changes have taken place in the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh in the last few weeks. An alliance, in this case SP-BSP, would work well if there is effective vote transfer. This means that on seats where one ally is contesting, the other alliance partner must convey effectively to their voters that they are in alliance and they should vote for their ally. Will this actually happen on the ground? Will the BSP voters vote for SP where Mayawati has not fielded candidates? Priyanka likens Modi to 'Duryodhana', hits back at PM for insulting 'martyr' Rajiv Gandhi "The BJP may win 60 seats in Uttar Pradesh. As per my sources, Mayawati is not willing to transfer votes to SP in seats where BSP is not contesting. Mayawati wants to emerge as a kingmaker and wants to play a major role in next government formation. She wants to have more say and wants to win more seats than SP at any cost," the veteran journalist told us. Now, if the BSP voters refrain from voting for SP in some seats, then what options do they have? It largely has to be a choice between the BJP and the Congress. In 2014, the Dalits and OBC had voted for the BJP in good numbers which was an important reason for BJP's thumping performance, and it also explains why the BSP drew a blank. The veteran journalist said that the upper caste votes, and a combination of Dalit and OBC votes is likely to propel the BJP to 60 seats mark. When asked that even with 60, there would be a short fall of 13 seats. He said that it can come from West Bengal and Odisha. Last time, the BJP won just two seats in Bengal, it may go up to around 5-7 seats this time. In Odisha, BJP may win up to five seats. EC gives clean chit to Modi for Nanded, Varanasi speeches The BJP's performance in West Bengal is likely to be better this time around. In 2014, BJP's vote share increased by almost 10 percent compared to 2009. Also, in West Bengal, the BJP has carefully poached leaders from the other parties to create an anti-Mamata. At least a dozen of BJP's Lok Sabha candidates in West Bengal are 'imports' from other parties. With dismal record, has three phase polling in Jammu and Kashmir failed? India oi-Deepika S Srinagar, May 08: At a time when the national security surrounding the Pulwama terror attack has taken the centre stage, the very narrative has failed to draw voters to the booths in the valley. Jammu and Kashmir has recorded an overall voter turnout of 44.51 per cent, which is 5 per cent down from the 49.52 per cent recorded in the 2014 election. The overall voting percentage in Anantnag, which voted in three phases, stood at 8.76 per cent. This is the second-lowest turnout for any Lok Sabha constituency in the state since the eruption of militancy, staying marginally above the 7.2 per cent registered in the bypoll to the Srinagar parliamentary seat in 2017. The Pulwama threat Pulwama district, where a suicide bomber drove into a Central Reserve Police Force convoy, killing 40 personnel, on February 14, is located in this Lok Sabha constituency. Number of votes cast in Burhan Wani's village- 0 The decision to conduct the election in three phases was taken on the basis of the feedback by the security forces. Security officials explained the difficulty in conducting the elections in Anantnag. The districts of Shopian and Pulwama are swarming with terrorists. The recent suicide strike at Pulwama was also cited as one of the reasons. The four districts of South Kashmir - Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama and Shopian - fall within Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency. These four districts are the centre of the local militancy that has taken root in the Valley over the last few years, and the site of pitched battles between security forces and militant groups. Despite a multi-phased polling schedule, a low turnout remained a concern as it indicates a sense of disenchantment with the electoral process among people. The individual turnout was the worst in Anantnag, where 8.79 per cent of voters came out to exercise their franchise, followed by Srinagar at 14 per cent. At 34 per cent, Baramulla saw a relatively better turnout. Burhan Wani effect The Lok Sabha seat fell vacant after Mehbooba Mufti vacated it in June 2016 to contest Assembly elections in order to become chief minister. Weeks later, popular Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani was killed by security forces, plunging the Valley into a chain of mass protests, civilian deaths and gunfights. As anger against the government grew, few leaders who took part in electoral politics were able to enter these districts. Some were targeted by militants while many announced their decision to resign from political parties. Nobody from the village of Burhan Wani, the poster boy of terror group Hizbul Mujahideen, voted on Monday, while just 15 from the native place of Pulwama suicide bomber, who nearly brought India and Pakistan to a war, cast the ballots. Also, zero polling was witnessed from the villages of other top militant commanders in south Kashmir. Grenade attack hits polling in militancy prone Pulwama To top it, 2018 turned out to be one of the bloodiest years in a decade in Kashmir, at least 413 people were killed due to violence since January of this year. More than half of those who died are militants, as per data available with security agencies. Anantnag has a dismal voting history The Valley, embroiled in violence for over three decades, has historically seen low voter turnouts. Over the last five general elections from 1998 to 2014, the turnout in Anantnag has remained below 30 per cent. In 1999 and 2004, it was below 15 per cent. In the 2009 polls, this constituency had witnessed a polling percentage of 29. After Mehbooba vacated the seat, the Election Commission of India had announced that by-polls would be held on April 12, 2017. However violent protests that led to the death of seven civilians had led to the polls being postponed. The polls were deferred to May 2017, but owing to the deteriorating situation, the polls later deferred indefinitely. With dismal polling percentage recorded in Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency the polling for which was held in three phases, the three major contenders NC, PDP and Congress will be banking upon the selected pockets for their winning prospects. Digital Health ID Card 2021: How to apply, registration, benefits; all you need to know Are you taking enough care of your mental health lalong with your physical health? World Mental Health Day 2021: Mental Health care for all an overview by Ziqitza Healthcare Ltd Rajinikanth health update: Actor doing fine, admitted to Kauvery Hospital in Chennai for health check-up Powerstar Puneeth Rajkumar dies of heart attack at 46; Fans heartbroken, Bengaluru to remain on high alert Couple eats raw rodent meat for 'good health', dies of plague International oi-Deepika S Ulaanbaatar, May 09: A Mongolian couple has died of the bubonic plague after contracting it when they ate raw marmot meat last week. The unnamed couple, who were ethnically Kazakh, reportedly fell ill April 27 after hunting and eating contaminated marmot, a large species of squirrel, in Mongolia. They died three days later, leaving behind four kids. The couple ate the marmot - a type of giant ground squirrel found mostly in North America and Eurasia - under the impression that doing so would bring them good health. Health authorities have for years warned people against eating marmot as they are believed to carry Yersinia pestis, the bubonic plague germ, Agence France-Press (AFP) reported. The Black Death wiped out millions of people in the Middle Ages but cases are now very rare. Its most common form is bubonic, which is spread by fleas and causes swelling of the lymph node. The more virulent form is pneumonic plague, which can be transmitted between humans through coughing. Bubonic plague can be transmitted via infected fleas and animals, like prairie dogs, squirrels, rats and rabbits, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Throughout history, plague epidemics have caused widespread death around the globe in certain periods. While modern antibiotics can now treat the disease and prevent its spread, infections in humans do still occur in parts of the western United States as well as in Africa and Asia, the CDC says. Here is why the Pulwama probe has hit a dead end Further breakthroughs in Pulwama attack case as NIA nabs two more Pakistan: 8 killed, 25 injured in blast near near Sufi shrine in Lahore International oi-Madhuri Adnal Lahore, May 08: At least eight people were killed and 25 others were injured in a suicide attack near a car of police elite force in the immediate vicinity of Data Darbar in Pakistan's Lahore. The blast occurred around 8:45 am in Pakistan when a vehicle of the Elite Forces stationed outside gate no. 2 of the Data Darbar shrine was blown up. The injured and the dead were brought in to Mayo Hospital. According to initial reports, the police's elite force was made the target of the blast. Meanwhile, rescue and police officers have rushed to the spot along with a heavy convoy of police forces, and the injured persons are being shifted to nearby hospitals for medical attention. According to DawnNewsTV, the nature of the explosion has not yet been ascertained and a rescue operation is currently underway. It should be noted that Data Darbar is densely crowded with people, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Food, water and shelter are given to the poor round the clock in this shrine during the Ramadan month. The latest blast is the third such attack on the Data Darbar shrine. Earlier, a blast claimed the lives of dozens as a suicide bomber blew up inside the shrine while the second blast occurred outside the premises of the shrine. Death toll in Delhi now at 42, number of injured 250 After the violence, an outreach programme by police Delhi violence: One of five injured men, forced to sing National Anthem, dies One killed, 8 injured in Colorado's Denver school shooting International oi-Madhuri Adnal Denver, May 08: An 18-year-old student was killed, eight others were injured and two suspects were in custody after two students interrupted classes with gunfire at STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday afternoon at a suburban Denver school in Colorado, US. The victims' names have not been released yet. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said the suspects - a juvenile and an adult - were believed to be students at the school. Spurlock said there were no other suspects in the case, but authorities were still investigating at the scene. 2 bike borne men open fire outside east Delhi restaurant The sheriff said a number of students were shot and wounded; all the victims were aged 15 or older. Apart from seizing their weapons, police also found the suspects' vehicle in the parking lot of the school. As of now, at least 7 students have been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment and all of them are believed to be in critical condition. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 9:34 [IST] State vs national issues: Key lessons for the BJP to learn in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Haryana These Indians in Pakistan remind voters of 'Desh Ka Mahatyohar' International oi-Madhuri Adnal Lahore, May 08: With the Lok Sabha elections 2019 almost a half way through, these Indians were delighted to franchise their votes in 'Desh Ka Mahatyohar' or the great Indian festival of elections while being in Pakistan. Yes, you have read it right. It's none other than the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Taking to Twitter, the Indian High Commission thanked the Election Commission for the e-postal ballot system. It also urged the voters to caste their vote. Congratulations to High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria and his team for participating in the planet's largest exercise in democracy! As 900 million Indians vote in General Elections 2019, the dance of democracy continues within the High Commission of India in Pakistan! @Ajaybis https://t.co/VZF1iJhOUm India in Pakistan (@IndiainPakistan) May 5, 2019 The powerful election body also shared the tweet urged service voters in all embassies to cast their vote. Also, several efforts are put to ease out this process. Not only can natives, but also the NRIs and servicemen located abroad can franchise their votes. It means that the residents of India, be in India or abroad, can use their voting right. The scale of India's national election, in which roughly around 900 million people are eligible to vote, makes it the world's largest democratic exercise. Duryodhan, Dushasana, Dhritrashtra are poll issues in the 2019 Mahabharat India has the largest democratic election system in every five years as per the Constitution. Elections are being held in the country in different phases and now five phases have been completed, but voter turnout has not crossed 70 percent during these five phases. The election system here is quite different from other countries in view of the democratic values and democratic method. Indian election system has a prominent role in the formation of government. The polling schedule is entering its home stretch -- five phases have been completed, and two remain. These will be held on May 12 and 19. What is an Electronically transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS)? Electronically transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) is developed by Election Commission of India with the help of Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), for the use of the Service Voters. It is a fully secured system, having two layers of security. Secrecy is maintained through the use of OTP and PIN and no duplication of casted Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot (ETPB) is possible due to the unique QR Code Also Read | With dismal record, has three phase polling in Jammu and Kashmir failed? This system enables the entitled service voters to cast their vote using an electronically received postal ballot from anywhere outside their constituency. The voters who make such a choice will be entitled for Postal Ballot delivered through Electronic Media for a particular election. The developed System is implemented inline with the existing Postal Ballot System. Postal Ballot will be transmitted through Electronic Means to the voters. It enables the voters to cast their vote on an electronically received postal ballot from their preferred location, which is outside their originally assigned voting constituency. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 11:25 [IST] 55-year-old arrested for raping, blackmailing 22-year-old model in Mumbai Mumbai oi-Madhuri Adnal Mumbai, May 08: A 55-year-old doctor was arrested for allegedly raping and blackmailing a 22-year-old model. The police arrested the doctor and said that he came in contact with the model while she was working for a popular daily soap. It is learnt that the woman and the doctor met at the end of 2017 through a mutual friend, after which they became friends. Actor Karan Oberoi of Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin fame arrested on charges of rape, blackmail During the investigation, police found that some amount of money was transferred to the model's account by the doctor. The woman accused that on one occasion the doctor took some private pictures of her and started blackmailing her. The accused threatened the model of making her pictures public if she thought of approaching the police. A complaint was registered last week following which the doctor was arrested on Sunday from Chembur. A complaint was registered last week, after which the police arrested the doctor on Sunday from Chembur. The doctor has been sent to police custody till May 10. Also Read | Delhi woman in viral video 'apologises' for shaming girls on short dress A senior police official spoke to news agency ANI and said that the man has been taken into custody. "They had come into contact while she was working in a serial. We've filed FIR under multiple IPC sections. He has been sent to police custody till 10 May. Investigation on," police said. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 18:15 [IST] WBJEE 2022 registrations to begin today: Here is how to apply Bank jobs: SBI announces job opening; How to apply online for Chief Technology Officer post New Delhi oi-Vikas SV New Delhi, May 08: SBI recruitment 2019 process is underway and the leading PSU bank has invited applications for recruitment of Chief Technology Officer vacancy on SBI official website. SBI has thus far in 2019 advertised for massive recruitment for Probationary Officers and Junior Associates posts. Rectly, the SBI had invited applications for Specialist Cadre officers on contract basis. This latest SBI Chief Technology Officer vacancy announcement came three day back on SBI official SBI website. Last date to apply for SBI Chief Technology Officer job is May 20, 2019. There is one opening and the hiring would be on contract basis. SBI official notification for Chief Technology Officer vacancy: Click Here Download SBI official notification/advertisement for Chief Technology Officer job: Click Here. [NABARD jobs 2019: NABARD recruitment begins, 87 Manager job openings announced; How to apply] How to apply online for SBI Chief Technology Officer vacancy: Visit www.sbi.co.in/careers Scoll down and click on "Current Openings" [https://www.sbi.co.in/careers/ongoing-recruitment.html] On this page, click on "RECRUITMENT OF SPECIALIST CADRE OFFICERS IN SBI ON CONTRACT BASIS". On this page click on, click for new registration and proceed to regiustration form. Fill out the basic information and register first. Using the regisdtration information, return to page mentioned in Step-4 and login. Fill out all the required information. Submit Take a printout of final acknowledgement for future reference. Several Casinos Expand With New Software Suppliers Published May 8, 2019 by Ivan P The new supply agreement will see a number of casinos boost their gaming portfolios with fresh titles, including slots, table games, and some specialty releases. Several casinos have announced they entered supply partnership agreements with a number of well-known developers of casino games and software, including 888 Tiger Casino, Superior Casino and 24VIP Casino. The list of the latest partners includes Saucify, Spinomenal, and Tom Horn Gaming. Expanding the Market Presence Thanks to these new agreements, players will now have access to a vast number of fresh gaming titles developed using the latest technology and offering many intriguing and engaging in-game features as well as opportunities to win big. All of these companies, already have a strong presence in the European iGaming market and are looking to expand their global footprint. These supply agreements will enable them to do exactly this, putting their before the eyes of many more players. Loads of Fresh Titles on Offer Gaming libraries of these casinos will now include heaps of new titles for their players to enjoy. This includes slots such as Big Game, Panda's Run, Greedy Servants, Wild Heist, Age of Spartans, and Savannah King, and many more. All of these providers develop games in line with the latest standards and utilizing new technologies, making their titles available to players across various platforms and fully optimized for mobile gaming. Alongside high-quality graphics, these games also provide players with unique mathematical models and heaps of great features, both of which are designed to create a more enjoyable gaming experience and create better winning opportunities for the players. In addition to slots, the new supply agreement will see other games added to the mix, such as some specialty titles as well as popular table games. Optimized to perform well on a variety of setups and not requiring too much computing power, all of these games will be available to players with virtually no technical restrictions, so everyone will be able to try their luck with these new additions. Laxman Pai, Opalesque Asia: The private equity investment in Europe has hit a new record, increasing 7% year-over-year to reach 80.6bn ($90.22bn), said a report. Private equity funds invested in over 7,800 companies, also a new record, with 86% of the total made up by small and medium-sized enterprises, said a report by Invest Europe, the association that aims to represent European private equity and VC with over 1,400 member firms. The total fundraising in 2018 into Europe-focused strategies reached 97.3bn ($111bn), up 0.7% from 2017 and the highest total since the financial crisis. The number of funds raising new capital dropped by 5% to 581. Investors from outside Europe contributed 46% of total fundraising, according to the report. Pension funds remained the largest investor group Pension funds provided 31% of all capital raised, followed by funds of funds & other asset managers (18%), family offices & private individuals (11%), insurance companies (11%) and sovereign wealth funds (9%). Institutional investors from outside of Europe contributed 46%, led by North America (25%) and Asia (15%). Buyout fundraising decreased by 8% to 66.5bn. A total of 55% came from investors from outside of Europe. North America accounted for 28%, followed by Asian LPs on 19%, the region's highest ever contribution. Venture fundraising increased by 11% to 11.4bn. Government agencies committed 18% of the total, their lowest proportion in ten years...................... To view our full article Click here Laxman Pai, Opalesque Asia: TA Associates has raised $8.5bn for the one-and-done final close of its thirteenth flagship private equity fund (TA XIII), which will focus on investing in middle-market growth companies. TA XIII exceeded its $7.5bn target, the Boston-based private equity firm said. The capital came mainly from existing investors, including public pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, foundations and endowments. The fund will look to invest between $75m-$500m in growth companies in the technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer and business services sectors. "We are grateful and humbled to have received such a high level of interest in our latest flagship fund," said Brian J. Conway, Chairman and Managing Partner at TA Associates. "TA XIII will build on our existing strategy of providing transformational capital and strategic resources to great businesses and management teams across the globe," said Ajit Nedungadi, Managing Partner at TA Associates. He added: "We look forward to investing the fund to help companies accelerate growth and deliver compelling investment performance for our investors." TA XIII is the successor fund to TA XII, a $5.3bn private equity fund that began investing in March 2016, and TA Atlantic and Pacific VII, a $1.4bn private equity fund that began investing in January 2014. It is expected that TA XIII will commence its investment period during the second half of 2019. Goodwin Proct...................... To view our full article Click here Excavating Machinery Market Size, Share, Development by 2024 Top Key players like KOMATSU(Japan),HITACHI(Japan),CAT(US),Inc. https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/607948/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/607948/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com Market Research Report Store offers a latest published report on Excavating Machinery Market Analysis and Forecast 2019-2025 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 91 pages which highly exhibit on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Click to view the full report TOC, figure and tables:In 2019, the market size of Excavating Machinery is million US$ and it will reach million US$ in 2025, growing at a CAGR of from 2019; while in China, the market size is valued at xx million US$ and will increase to xx million US$ in 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during forecast period.In this report, 2018 has been considered as the base year and 2019 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Excavating Machinery.This report studies the global market size of Excavating Machinery, especially focuses on the key regions like United States, European Union, China, and other regions (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia).This study presents the Excavating Machinery production, revenue, market share and growth rate for each key company, and also covers the breakdown data (production, consumption, revenue and market share) by regions, type and applications. history breakdown data from 2014 to 2019, and forecast to 2025.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversKOMATSU(Japan)HITACHI(Japan)CAT(US)VOLVO(Sweden)DAEWOO(Korea)HYUNDAI(Korea)KOBELCO(Japan)CASE(US)SANY(China)AOT(China)Market Segment by Type, coversUniversal ExcavatorMining ExcavatolMarine ExcavatorSpecial ExcavatorMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoDiggingBreakingLoading Aand UnloadingLiftingPilingFor More Information On This Report, Please Visit @Related Information:North America Excavating Machinery Market Growth 2019-2024United States Excavating Machinery Market Growth 2019-2024Asia-Pacific Excavating Machinery Market Growth 2019-2024Europe Excavating Machinery Market Growth 2019-2024EMEA Excavating Machinery Market Growth 2019-2024Global Excavating Machinery Market Growth 2019-2024China Excavating Machinery Market Growth 2019-2024Customization Service of the Report :Market Research Report Store provides 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 Us:Market Research Report Store (MRRS) is a professional organization related to market research reports in all directions .To provide customers with a variety of market research reports, MRRS cooperates with a large of famous market report publishers all over the world. Owing to our good service and the professional market reports in the wide range, MRRS enjoys a good reputation in the market. In pace with the development of MRRS, more and more customers and market report publishers choose to cooperate with us. As a specialized platform, MRRS upholds the supremacy of customers and aims to provide customers with better service and richer select.Contact USMarket Research Report StoreE-mail: info@marketresearchreportstore.comTel: +86-15521064060 00852-58197708(HK)Add: 17890 Castleton Street Suite 218 City of Industry CA 91748 United StatesWebsite: Automobile Lubricating Oil Market to Witness Robust Expansion by 2024 Top Key players like FUCHS(Germany),EXXONMOBIL(US),SHELL(Netherland),Inc. https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/607949/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/607949/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com Market Research Report Store offers a latest published report on Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Analysis and Forecast 2019-2025 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 91 pages which highly exhibit on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Click to view the full report TOC, figure and tables:In 2019, the market size of Automobile Lubricating Oil is million US$ and it will reach million US$ in 2025, growing at a CAGR of from 2019; while in China, the market size is valued at xx million US$ and will increase to xx million US$ in 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during forecast period.In this report, 2018 has been considered as the base year and 2019 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Automobile Lubricating Oil.This report studies the global market size of Automobile Lubricating Oil, especially focuses on the key regions like United States, European Union, China, and other regions (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia).This study presents the Automobile Lubricating Oil production, revenue, market share and growth rate for each key company, and also covers the breakdown data (production, consumption, revenue and market share) by regions, type and applications. history breakdown data from 2014 to 2019, and forecast to 2025.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversFUCHS(Germany)EXXONMOBIL(US)SHELL(Netherland)Planck(Germany)Castrol(Britain)TOTAL(France)LUKOIL(Russia)Sinopec(China)CNPC(China)NIPPON OIL(Japan)Market Segment by Type, coversTraditional lubricating oilsHydrogenated LubricantsIsomerization Dewaxing LubricantsMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoLubricationWashingSealingRust preventionCoolingElimination Of Impact LoadFor More Information On This Report, Please Visit @Related Information:North America Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Growth 2019-2024United States Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Growth 2019-2024Asia-Pacific Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Growth 2019-2024Europe Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Growth 2019-2024EMEA Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Growth 2019-2024Global Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Growth 2019-2024China Automobile Lubricating Oil Market Growth 2019-2024Customization Service of the Report :Market Research Report Store provides 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 Us:Market Research Report Store (MRRS) is a professional organization related to market research reports in all directions .To provide customers with a variety of market research reports, MRRS cooperates with a large of famous market report publishers all over the world. Owing to our good service and the professional market reports in the wide range, MRRS enjoys a good reputation in the market. In pace with the development of MRRS, more and more customers and market report publishers choose to cooperate with us. As a specialized platform, MRRS upholds the supremacy of customers and aims to provide customers with better service and richer select.Contact USMarket Research Report StoreE-mail: info@marketresearchreportstore.comTel: +86-15521064060 00852-58197708(HK)Add: 17890 Castleton Street Suite 218 City of Industry CA 91748 United StatesWebsite: Memory Chip Market Global Outlook Report 2019-2027 | Industry Key Players - ADATA Technology, Fujitsu, Intel, Micron Technology, SK HYNIX, Sony, Transcend Information, Texas Instruments, Qualcomm Technologies Memory Chip Market | Premium Market Insights https://www.premiummarketinsights.com/sample/TIP00010814 https://www.premiummarketinsights.com/buy/TIP00010814 Premium Market Insights has Published New Market Research Report on Memory Chip Market Global Industry Analysis, Size, Overview, Trends, Growth and Forecast by 2019 - 2027.Memory Chip Market research report is an expert compiled study which provides a holistic view of the market covering current trends and future scope, trend, Comprehensive Study, demand, growth opportunities and outlook with segmentation by product/service, type, application, geography / region and top industry companies.Get PDF sample copy:Companies Covered in this Report are:1. ADATA Technology Co. Ltd.2. Fujitsu Ltd.3. Intel Corporation4. Micron Technology Inc.5. SK HYNIX Inc.6. Sony Corporation7. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC)8. Transcend Information Inc.9. Texas Instruments Incorporated10. Qualcomm Technologies Inc.The memory chips are the integrated circuits which are capable of storing ample information. These memory chips are integrated into many hardware devices such as a video card. These chips are available in different sizes and shapes. Due to the high penetration of electronic devices, the adoption of different memory chips is rising.The memory chip market is driven by high usage of consumer electronic items such as smartphones, laptops and other devices among the users are rising the use of memory chip in the market. Moreover, use of memory chip is expected to benefit other applications as well including medical devices, which is expected to create tremendous opportunities for the players operating in the memory chip market.The "Global Memory chip Market Analysis to 2027" is a specialized and in-depth study of the electronics and semiconductor industry with a special focus on the global market trend analysis. The report aims to provide an overview of the memory chip market with detailed market segmentation by type, application and geography. The global Memory chip market is expected to witness high growth during the forecast period. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the leading memory chip market players and offers key trends and opportunities in the market.The global memory chip market is segmented on the basis of type and application. Based on type, the market is segmented into static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), programmable ROM (PROM), NAND flash and others. On the basis of application, the memory chip market is segmented into smartphone, laptops, camera, microcontrollers, medical devices and others.REGIONAL FRAMEWORKThe report provides a detailed overview of the industry including both qualitative and quantitative information. It provides an overview and forecast of the global memory chip market based on various segments. It also provides market size and forecast estimates from the year 2017 to 2027 with respect to five major regions, namely; North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific (APAC), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and South & Central America. The Memory chip market by each region is later sub-segmented by respective countries and segments. The report covers the analysis and forecast of 18 countries globally along with the current trend and opportunities prevailing in the region.The report analyzes factors affecting the memory chip market from both demand and supply side and further evaluates market dynamics affecting the market during the forecast period i.e., drivers, restraints, opportunities and future trend. The report also provides exhaustive PEST analysis for all five regions namely; North America, Europe, APAC, MEA and South & Central America after evaluating political, economic, social and technological factors affecting the memory chip in these regions.MARKET PLAYERSThe reports cover key developments in the memory chip market as organic and inorganic growth strategies. Various companies are focusing on organic growth strategies such as product launches, product approvals and others such as patents and events. Inorganic growth strategies activities witnessed in the market were acquisitions and partnership & collaborations. These activities have paved way for the expansion of business and customer base of market players. The market payers from Memory chip market are anticipated to lucrative growth opportunities in the future with the rising demand for Memory chip in the global market. Below mentioned is the list of few companies engaged in the Memory chip market.The report also includes the profiles of key companies along with their SWOT analysis and market strategies in the Memory chip market. In addition, the report focuses on leading industry players with information such as company profiles, components and services offered, financial information of the last 3 years, the key development in the past five years.Memory Chip Market to 2027 - Global Analysis and ForecastsBy Type Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) Programmable ROM (PROM) NAND Flash OthersBy Application Smartphone Laptops Camera Microcontrollers Medical Devices OthersBy GeographyBuy the complete report with Comprehensive table of contents @Table of Contents:1. INTRODUCTION1.1. SCOPE OF THE STUDY1.2. PublisherS RESEARCH REPORT GUIDANCE1.3. MARKET SEGMENTATION1.3.1 Memory Chip Market - By Type1.3.2 Memory Chip Market - By Application1.3.3 Memory Chip Market - By Region1.3.3.1 By Country2. KEY TAKEWAYS3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY4. MEMORY CHIP MARKET LANDSCAPE4.1. OVERVIEW4.2. PEST ANALYSIS4.2.1 North America - Pest Analysis4.2.2 Europe - Pest Analysis4.2.3 Asia-Pacific - Pest Analysis4.2.4 Middle East and Africa - Pest Analysis4.2.5 South and Central America - Pest Analysis4.3. ECOSYSTEM ANALYSIS4.4. EXPERT OPINIONS5. MEMORY CHIP MARKET - KEY MARKET DYNAMICS5.1. KEY MARKET DRIVERS5.2. KEY MARKET RESTRAINTS5.3. KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES5.4. FUTURE TRENDS5.5. IMPACT ANALYSIS OF DRIVERS AND RESTRAINTSContinue.About Premium Market Insights:Premium Market Insights is a one stop shop of market research reports and solutions to various companies across the globe. We help our clients in their decision support system by helping them choose most relevant and cost effective research reports and solutions from various publishers.The market research industry has changed in last decade. As corporate focus has shifted to niche markets and emerging countries, a number of publishers have stepped in to fulfil these information needs. We have experienced and trained staff that helps you navigate different options and lets you choose best research solution at most effective cost.Contact Us:Name: Sameer JoshiOrganization: Premium Market InsightsEmail: sales@premiummarketinsights.comPhone: +1-646-491-9876 Comprehensive analysis on Unified Communications & Collaboration Market| Key Players are Microsoft, Cisco, NEC, ALE, Avaya, Mitel, Huawei, Unify, RingCentral, BT, West, 8x8, Orange, Verizon, Google, Nextiva, Genesys, Star2Star, Vonage https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/467684/?utm_source=Openpr.com&utm_medium=SP https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/467684/?utm_source=Openpr.com&utm_medium=SP https://www.marketstudyreport.com/securecheckout/paymenta/467684?msfpaycode=sumsf?utm_source=Openpr.com&utm_medium=SP https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog/ Market Study Report LLC has added a new report on Unified Communications & Collaboration market that provides a comprehensive review of this industry with respect to the driving forces influencing the market size. Comprising the current and future trends defining the dynamics of this industry vertical, this report also incorporates the regional landscape of Unified Communications & Collaboration market in tandem with its competitive terrain.The Asia Pacific UCC market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 12% during the forecast timeline. The market growth is driven by the adoption of cloud-based UCC solutions and various government initiatives for modernizing ICT infrastructure. For instance, the South Korea Ministry of Science and ICT along with the major carriers in the country have drafted a plan to set up a nation-wide infrastructure by 2020. The huge penetration of low-cost smartphones in countries including China and Japan will also contribute toward market growth.Request a sample of this premium report at:Unified Communications & Collaboration (UCC) market is projected to surpass USD 60 billion by 2025. The market growth is attributed to factors such as penetration of smartphones and the growing need among organizations to streamline their business communication process flows. The rising usage of smartphones globally has compelled the UCC vendors to create mobile unified communications that will enable enterprises to access UC applications through a single interface. Moreover, the growing investments in 5G networks will also support the adoption of modern enterprise communication solutions.With the increase in digitization, organizations are now focusing on geographic expansion due to which managing business communication processes has become a difficult task. The need for the UCC system is to consolidate communication processes under a unified framework that can be managed easily. This reduces operational cost for organizations and their expansion globally. With the rapid adoption of cloud computing, they are constantly involved in modernizing their communication infrastructure to enable business communication across diverse geographical business units.Another factor driving the UCC market growth is the rising trend of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). The trend has added to the complexity of handling different communication channels in enterprises. To address this challenge, UCC solutions are widely being deployed by organizations to streamline communication functions easily.The key players operating in the UCC market are focusing on various business growth strategies such as new product developments and partnerships. This enables them to expand their existing portfolio and help them to increase their geographical reach to offer solutions to the uncaptured market segments. For instance, in July 2016, Arkadin Singapore, an NTT Communications company, launched Arkadin Total Connect, a Microsoft Skype for Business hosted service. The UCC portfolio for an all-in-one cloud solution offers an integrated UCC ecosystem equipped with web/audio/video conferencing, Office 365, and contact center.Conferencing platforms are expected to witness the highest growth of over 12% during the forecast period. The platforms, such as audio and video conferencing, ease communication process among businesses and provide various benefits such as improved competitive advantage, improved productivity & employee satisfaction, and improving the demand for these platforms over the forecast period.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report at:In the telephony market, the IP PBX market is projected to witness the fastest growth rate with a CAGR of over 8% from 2019 to 2025. The major factor driving the market is its easy support and reduced network latency. The majority of the hosted IP PBX providers have already started offering customized services, allowing users to connect to other servers without getting disconnected.The on-premise deployment model held a dominant UCC market share of over 55% in 2018 and is expected to maintain its dominant share by 2025. As the on-premise model offers enterprises with the complete software and hardware service control, enterprises are widely using this model to have accessibility to equipment anytime for troubleshooting while managing disaster recovery.The BFSI market is expected to register the fastest growth rate from 2019 to 2025 with a CAGR of over 11% due to the rapid adoption of UCC solutions to improve their profitability and way of conducting business. The financial institutions are using tools, such as mobile messaging and video conferencing, to personalize their relationships with customers to improve customer satisfaction. The growing use of such tools to facilitate seamless communication process and benefit from multichannel communications internally & externally will foster the UCC market growth in the BFSI sector.Furthermore, in November 2017, Beijing 263 Enterprise Communications Co., Ltd., one of the leading providers of enterprise SaaS services in China, and Arkadin, a provider of cloud communications (including UCC solutions), entered into a partnership to provide improved cloud communication solutions in the Chinese market. By joining forces to combine their respective expertise, the companies offer high-quality services including video/audio/web conferencing, unified communications, and web events. In October 2017, Ricoh, a global unified communications provider, partnered with Videxio, a provider of cloud-based video conferencing solutions, to extend its Ricoh Unified Communication System (Ricoh UCS) Advanced? to the Japanese market.Table of Contents:Chapter 1. Methodology & Scope1.1. Methodology1.1.1. Initial data exploration1.1.2. Statistical model and forecast1.1.3. Industry insights and validation1.1.4. Scope1.1.5. Definitions1.1.6. Methodology and forecast parameters1.2. Data Sources1.2.1. Primary1.2.2. Secondary1.2.2.1. Paid sources1.2.2.2. Public sourcesChapter 2. Executive Summary2.1. UCC industry 360 degree synopsis, 2014 - 20252.1.1. Business trends2.1.2. Regional trends2.1.3. Platform trends2.1.3.1. Telephony trends2.1.3.2. Collaboration trends2.1.3.3. Unified messaging trends2.1.3.4. Conferencing trends2.1.4. Deployment model trends2.1.5. Application trendsChapter 3. UCC Industry Insights3.1. Introduction3.2. Benefits of UCC3.2.1. Single, flexible infrastructure3.2.2. Reduced costs3.2.3. Increased business productivity3.2.4. Enhanced customer satisfaction3.2.5. Improved mobility3.3. Industry segmentation3.4. Industry landscape, 2014-20253.5. Evolution of UCC technology3.6. Industry ecosystem analysis3.7. UCC architecture analysis3.8. Technology & innovation landscape3.8.1. Mobile-first models for UCC3.8.2. AI, AR, and IoT3.8.3. WebRTC3.8.4. Application and workflow integration3.9. Regulatory landscape3.9.1. Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID)3.9.2. The Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 20033.9.3. The Dodd-Frank Act3.9.4. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)3.9.5. The Protection of Personal Information Act (2013)3.9.6. Electronic Communications and Transactions Act 25 of 20023.9.7. Nigeria Communications Act (2003)3.10. Industry impact forces3.10.1. Growth drivers3.10.1.1. Rapid adoption of mobile devices3.10.1.2. Growing popularity of the BYOD trend3.10.1.3. Growing need for streamlining business communication process flows3.10.1.4. Growing popularity of Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS)3.10.1.5. Reduction in administration and maintenance cost3.10.1.6. Growing enterprise social media uptake3.10.2. Industry pitfalls & challenges3.10.2.1. Concerns regarding data security3.10.2.2. Interoperability issues with existing assets3.10.2.3. Limited in-house capabilities to execute and manage the roll-out3.11. Industry news3.12. Porter's analysis3.13. PESTEL analysis3.14. Growth potential analysisPrice of Report: $5150 (Single User License) Purchase Complete Report at:About Us:Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Contact Us:Market Study Report LLC4 North Main Street,Selbyville, Delaware 19975USAPhone: 1-302-273-0910US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:Blog: Blockchain in Energy Market Growth Analysis 2025 By Top Key Players - Power Ledger, Limited, Oracle, Grid Singularity, Accenture, Greeneum, Drift, SAP, Electron, Grid+, Sun Exchange, WePower, LO3 Energy, EnergiMine https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1984501/ https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1984501/ https://www.marketstudyreport.com/reports/blockchain-in-energy-market https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog MarketStudyReport.com Adds Blockchain in Energy Market 2019 2025 research report providing information and data By Category, By Application, Industry Analysis, Regional Outlook, Application Potential, Competitive Market Share & Forecast spreading across 240 Pages with table and figures in it.Oil & gas blockchain in energy market will exhibit substantial growth on account of rising concerns to enhance the trade accuracy along with technical efficiency of the technology to improve accessibility to trade data. Extensive ability to improve the scheduling and back office efficiency along with subsequent reduction in the working capital cycle will accelerate the product penetration across the industry. Furthermore, growing emphasis to eradicate the need for clearinghouses and confirmation processing combined with its potential to provide high degree of security, accuracy and reliability of transactions will propel the business outlook.Request a sample of this premium report at:Blockchain in Energy Market is anticipated to exceed USD 3 billion by 2025. Growing complexity of power grids owing to increasing integration of renewable energy sources along with burgeoning demand for energy efficient systems for optimizing the grid operations will boost the blockchain in energy market. In addition, increased focus of the utilities toward the technology adoption coupled with massive propensity of the technology to direct constructive transformation will complement the business landscape. Since 2017, over 70 pilot projects have been deployed and more than 140 startups have been announced globally.Growing demand to achieve balance between energy supply and demand mismatch coupled with increasing security concerns owing to ongoing advancements in internet connected devices will accelerate the blockchain in energy market growth. Moreover, increasing deployment of the blockchain projects globally coupled with accelerating investments from various power giants toward its adoption will stimulate the technology demand. For instance, from the second quarters of 2017 till the first quarter of 2018, venture capitals and ICOs invested nearly USD 271 million toward blockchain based applications.Blockchain in energy market from private category in 2025 will grow over 45%. Strict control to reduce the downtime along with massive level of security provided by this platform are some of the key parameters stimulating the technology adoption. Moreover, lesser load and limited participants increases its competence to achieve faster transaction rate in comparison to its counterpart, thereby enhancing the business growth.Emergence of peer-to-peer platform along with the unveiling of smart meters have initiated disintermediation, thereby driving the blockchain in energy market. Emerging focus of power utilities to explore thy potential benefits of the technology coupled with increasing percentage of empowered prosumers existing in the renewable power trading will further foster the industry growth. For instance, residents in Bangkok are involved in peer-to-peer energy trading and have a total generating capacity of about 635 kW.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report at:Eminent players operating in the blockchain in energy market comprise of Power Ledger, Limited, Oracle, Grid Singularity, Accenture, Greeneum, Drift, SAP, Electron, Grid+, Sun Exchange, WePower, LO3 Energy, EnergiMine, Conjoule GmbH amongst others.Table of content:Chapter 1 Methodology & ScopeChapter 2 Executive SummaryChapter 3 Blockchain in Energy Industry InsightsChapter 4 Blockchain in Energy Market, By CategoryChapter 5 Blockchain in Energy Market, By ApplicationChapter 6 Blockchain in Energy Market, By RegionChapter 7 Company ProfilesMore Details on this Report At:About Us:Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Contact Us:Market Study Report LLC4 North Main Street,Selbyville, Delaware 19975USAPhone: 1-302-273-0910US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:Blog: Offshore Wind Market to Set Phenomenal Growth by 2026 | Top Key Players Are - Siemens Gamesa, GE Renewable Energy, MHI Vestas, Orsted, Adwen Offshore, Statoil, ABB Ltd., Senvion, Sinovel, and Petrofac Inc Offshore Wind Market https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/download-sample/?rid=3978&utm_source=OPR&utm_medium=PK https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/ask-for-discount/?rid=3978&utm_source=OPR&utm_medium=PK https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/global-offshore-wind-market-size-and-forecast-to-2025/?utm_source=OPR&utm_medium=PK According to Verified Market Intelligence, The Global Offshore Wind Market was valued at USD 22.42 billion in 2016 and is projected to reach USD 81.44 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 15.41% from 2017 to 2025.Offshore Wind Power is a method of producing electricity from wind energy by using the wind farms constructed in water bodies usually in the ocean. The wind speed available at the offshore is higher as compared to on land. Therefore, electricity generated by offshore wind power is higher per amount of capacity installed. Offshore wind power comprises of many inshore water areas such as fjords, lakes, deeper-water areas, and sheltered coastal areas. It mainly utilizes traditional fixed-bottom wind turbine technologies along with floating wind turbines in order to generate electricity.Global Offshore Wind Market 2019 centers on the prime Offshore Wind market driving factors, leading players and their constraint. The report offers a top-tier evaluation in terms of market segment, share, revenue forecast, and territorial analysis. The research report is a blend of an insightful study of Offshore Wind industry history and forecast up to 2026.Present synopsis and potential development of the Offshore Wind market for 2019-2026 are covered in this study report. The report majorly focuses on the numerous elements of the market. The analysis commences with roots of Offshore Wind industry followed by market attributes, segments, and sub-segments, influencing factors of global economy, and many more, which act as an integral part of market stratagem.To serve the clients with the best market report in the industry, an expert team of skilled analysts, dynamic forecasters and knowledgeable researchers work carefully while preparing this Offshore Wind report. Offshore Wind Market 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. The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions.Get | Download Sample Copy @The Major Key Players in the Market are as follows: MHI Vestas Siemens Gamesa GE Renewable Energy Adwen Offshore Inc. Statoil Orsted ABB ltd. Senvion Sinovel Petrofac IncGlobal Offshore Wind Market, By Location Overview Shallow water (< 30 m depth) Transitional water (30 m60 m depth) Deepwater (> 60 m depth)Global Offshore Wind Market, By Component Overview Electrical Infrastructure Substructure Monopile Gravity based and Jacket Other Turbine Tower Rotor & Blades Nacelle OthersGlobal Offshore Wind Market Geographic Scopeo North America U.S. Canada Mexicoo Europe Germany UK France Rest of Europeo Asia Pacific China Japan India Rest of Asia Pacifico Latin America Brazilo Rest of the WorldAvail The Discount @Worldwide Offshore Wind Market Analysis to 2025 is a specialized and in-depth study of the Offshore Wind industry with a focus on the global market trend. The report aims to provide an overview of global Offshore Wind market with detailed market segmentation by product/application and geography. The global Offshore Wind market is expected to witness high growth during the forecast period. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the Offshore Wind players and offers key trends and opportunities in the market.Table Of Content1 Introduction Of The Global Offshore Wind2 Executive Summary3 Research Methodology Of Verified Market Intelligence4 The Global Offshore Wind Outlook5 The Global Offshore Wind, By Systems6 The Global Offshore Wind, By Service7 The Global Offshore Wind, By Verticals8 The Global Offshore Wind, By Applications9 The Global Offshore Wind, By Geography10 The Global Offshore Wind Competitive LandscapeReasons to Purchase this Report Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the market based on segmentation involving both economic as well as non-economic factors Provision of market value (USD Billion) data for each segment and sub-segment Indicates the region and segment that is expected to witness the fastest growth as well as to dominate the market Analysis by geography highlighting the consumption of the product/service in the region as well as indicating the factors that are affecting the market within each region Competitive landscape which incorporates the market ranking of the major players, along with new service/product launches, partnerships, business expansions and acquisitions in the past five years of companies profiled Extensive company profiles comprising of company overview, company insights, product benchmarking and SWOT analysis for the major market players The current as well as future market outlook of the industry with respect to recent developments (which involve growth opportunities and drivers as well as challenges and restraints of both emerging as well as developed regions Includes an in-depth analysis of the market of various perspectives through Porters five forces analysis Provides insight into the market through Value Chain Market dynamics scenario, along with growth opportunities of the market in the years to come 6-month post sales analyst supportComplete Report is Available @About Us:Verified Market Research' has been providing Research Reports, with up to date information, and in-depth analysis, for several years now, to individuals and companies alike that are looking for accurate Research Data. Our aim is to save your Time and Resources, providing you with the required Research Data, so you can only concentrate on Progress and Growth. Our Data includes research from various industries, along with all necessary statistics like Market Trends, or Forecasts from reliable sources.Contact Us:Mr. Rohit S.Call: +1 (650) 781 4080Email: sales@verifiedmarketresearch.com Intelligent Chip Market: Competitive Dynamics & Global Outlook 2024 Top Key players like Top Key players like Intel(US),Samsung(Korea),TSMC(Taiwan),Inc. https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/607981/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com/reports/607981/global-united-states-european-union-china https://www.marketresearchreportstore.com Market Research Report Store offers a latest published report on Intelligent Chip Market Analysis and Forecast 2019-2025 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 91 pages which highly exhibit on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Click to view the full report TOC, figure and tables:In 2019, the market size of Intelligent Chip is million US$ and it will reach million US$ in 2025, growing at a CAGR of from 2019; while in China, the market size is valued at xx million US$ and will increase to xx million US$ in 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during forecast period.In this report, 2018 has been considered as the base year and 2019 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for Intelligent Chip.This report studies the global market size of Intelligent Chip, especially focuses on the key regions like United States, European Union, China, and other regions (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia).This study presents the Intelligent Chip production, revenue, market share and growth rate for each key company, and also covers the breakdown data (production, consumption, revenue and market share) by regions, type and applications. history breakdown data from 2014 to 2019, and forecast to 2025.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversIntel(US)Samsung(Korea)TSMC(Taiwan)Qualcomm(US)SK Hynix(Korea)Micron(US)TI(US)Toshiba(Japan)Broadcom(US)MediaTek(Taiwan)ST(France)(Italy)Infineon(Germany)Avago(US)Renesas(Japan)NXP(Netherland)Sony(Japan)GlobalFoundries(US)Freescale(US)Sharp(Japan)UMC(Taiwan)Market Segment by Type, coversPackageUnpackageMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoIndustrial TestingAviationMilitaryDefenceMobile PhoneFor More Information On This Report, Please Visit @Related Information:North America Intelligent Chip Market Growth 2019-2024United States Intelligent Chip Market Growth 2019-2024Asia-Pacific Intelligent Chip Market Growth 2019-2024Europe Intelligent Chip Market Growth 2019-2024EMEA Intelligent Chip Market Growth 2019-2024Global Intelligent Chip Market Growth 2019-2024China Intelligent Chip Market Growth 2019-2024Customization Service of the Report :Market Research Report Store provides 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 Us:Market Research Report Store (MRRS) is a professional organization related to market research reports in all directions .To provide customers with a variety of market research reports, MRRS cooperates with a large of famous market report publishers all over the world. Owing to our good service and the professional market reports in the wide range, MRRS enjoys a good reputation in the market. In pace with the development of MRRS, more and more customers and market report publishers choose to cooperate with us. As a specialized platform, MRRS upholds the supremacy of customers and aims to provide customers with better service and richer select.Contact USMarket Research Report StoreE-mail: info@marketresearchreportstore.comTel: +86-15521064060 00852-58197708(HK)Add: 17890 Castleton Street Suite 218 City of Industry CA 91748 United StatesWebsite: Dermatophytosis Treatment Market 2025 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Tinea Pharmaceuticals, NB Therapeutics, Inc., AmDerma Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=16 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=16 Global Dermatophytosis Treatment Market: SnapshotDermatophytosis is an infectious disease caused by fungi known as dermatophytes. This fungus belong to a family of organisms that can break down the keratin in epidermis, nails, horns and hooves, epidermis, and nails. Mostly thriving in soil and involved in soil decomposition, these fungi can infect living hosts as well.Get Brochure of the Report @Dermatophytosis treatment has unique features. Firstly, the disease is present only on the skins keratin and it feeds on keratin for nutrition. However, the presence of the fungus on the skin and its metabolic products causes an allergic reaction in the host. It can affect a host of body parts. This includes the scalp, groin, feet, bearded skin of the face, and the nails. The symptom of Dermatophytosis vary from mild inflammations to severe vesicular reactions.Dermatophytosis develops either through direct contact with infected wounds or indirectly through infected towels, shoes, or shower stalls. The combination of slight hot weather and tight clothing is conducive for the fungus to thrive.Topical antifungal creams such as clotrimazole, miconazole, and terbinafine are effective for treating simple forms of Dermatophytosis that is located in parts other than the scalp. The treatment involves cleansing the affected region and rubbing cream on the skin thoroughly.If the nature of the disease is serious it requires a prescribed line of treatment. This includes prescription drugs along with home care to prevent the infection from spreading. Home care includes avoiding clothing that discomforts the infected area, clean and dry the skin regularly, and wash beddings and clothes daily until the infection is completely clear.Global Dermatophytosis Treatment Market: OverviewDermatophytosis is a fungal infection of the skin caused by a fungi that feeds on keratin, a material found in the outer layer of the skin, nails, and hair. Dermatophytosis is commonly referred to as ringworm and affects both humans and animals.Common symptoms of dermatophytosis include itching, redness, and dryness of the infected area, separation of the nail from the nail bed, scaling, nail dystrophy, broken hair, hair loss, rashes, and nail discoloration. People with weak immune systems and those who play contact sports are at a higher risk of dermatophytosis. The skin condition is known to worsen during the summer with increased symptoms during the winters.Global Dermatophytosis Treatment Market: SegmentationOn the basis of diagnosis, the global dermatophytosis treatment market is classified into woods test, microscopic test, culture test, and others. By way of drugs used, the market is segmented into Imidazole, Econazole, Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Ketoconazole, Terbinafine, Clotrimazole, Corticosteroid, Terbinafine, Itraconazole, Griseofulvin, and others. Geographically, the dermatophytosis treatment market is segmented as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW).Dermatophytosis Treatment Market: Drivers and RestraintsOne of the key factors driving the need for dermatophytosis treatment is an increasing population of people with weak immune systems. The immune system weakens with age and a globally rising geriatric population contributing to the high prevalence of dermatophytosis. Apart from this, rising sedentary lifestyle and increasing incidence of hospital-acquired diseases have resulted in a higher rate of dermatophytosis. This has driven the demand for dermatophytosis treatment.On the other hand, the lack of awareness about dermatophytosis and related diseases, and its treatment options limits the growth prospects of this market. In addition, reluctance on the part of patients in receiving dermatophytosis treatment is restraining the growth of the market globally.Global Dermatophytosis Treatment Market: Geographical AssessmentFrom a geographical standpoint, North America presently dominates the global dermatophytosis treatment market, with Europe coming in second. Favorable reimbursement coverage, the availability of immensely developed healthcare infrastructure, a high rate of awareness regarding dermatophytosis, greater healthcare spending, the availability of advanced healthcare facilities, and increased awareness about the benefits of early diagnosis and treatment of dermatophytosis are some of the major factors driving the North America and Europe markets for dermatophytosis treatment.Asia Pacific possesses high growth potential in the global dermatophytosis treatment market and is likely to witness strong progress in the near future. A rapidly rising literacy rate, improving healthcare infrastructure, a rise in government support to improve healthcare facilities, and growing healthcare spending are some of the key drivers in the Asia Pacific region. The dermatophytosis treatment market in India and China is expected to grow swiftly owing to rapidly developing medical tourism in these countries. Japan is also expected to contribute to the expansion of the dermatophytosis treatment market in Asia with increased focus of the government to offer improved and advanced healthcare facilities to its citizens.Get TOC for Detailed Facts and Numbers @Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are some of the key countries in the Rest of the World (RoW) segment expected to demonstrate promising growth in the dermatophytosis treatment market.Global Dermatophytosis Treatment Market: Key ContributorsThere are a number of players operating in the global dermatophytosis treatment market. These include Novartis AG, Quinnova Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Tinea Pharmaceuticals, NB Therapeutics, Inc., AmDerma Pharmaceuticals, LLC, Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc., Merz Pharma GmbH & Co. KgaA, Perrigo Company plc. In addition to these, there are several research institutes and universities collaborating with drug manufacturing companies for conducting clinical trials to develop effective dermatophytosis treatment methods.Some of the key contributors are the University of Minnesota, Karolinska Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, the Department of Health, South Africa, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, The Childrens Mercy Hospital, and Oita University.About TMR ResearchTMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Contact:TMR Research,3739 Balboa St # 1097,San Francisco, CA 94121United StatesTel: +1-415-520-1050 Mobility on Demand Market will show strong growth through 2024 | Global Players are Cabify, Didi, asy Tax, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Europcar, Grab, Lyft, Uber Mobility on Demand Market www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1229 www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1229 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/mobility-on-demand-mod-market https://www.openpr.com/news/1726398/LED-Lamp-Market-Explores-New-Growth-Opportunities-up-to-2024-key-Players-like-Osram-Samsung-Philips-Cree-Eaton-Corporation-General-Electric-Company.html www.gminsights.com www.industry-source.org Mobility on Demand Market has seemingly brought about an upsurge in the development of autonomous vehicles. For instance, Uber is investing heavily in bringing driverless cars to the roads as estimates show that 60% to 80% of the revenues remain with the car owner. By eliminating the need of a driver, ride hailing services like Uber are persevering to keep most of the revenue with the service provider. The profit perspective is highly motivating the development of driverless and autonomous cars, that are in turn expected to profoundly change mobility on demand industry trends within the next 5 to 15 years.The smart cities initiatives by the governments of various countries including the U.S., Spain, Ireland, India, Singapore, and Sweden are expected to speed up the mobility on demand market expansion. The governments are providing incentives to the people to share rides while commuting and converting the existing public fleet of vehicles to electric vehicles. For instance, under the smart city project, the Vienna Model Region is developing e-mobility on demand to integrate the transportation system with the e-car sharing model effectively.Request for a sample copy of this research report @The appreciable growth of mobility on demand market is projected to be one of the most significant trends that the globe would witness in the next decade. The ongoing exponential popularity of ride hailing, car sharing and last-mile delivery services is just the beginning of a global shift away from personal vehicle ownership to a shared, on-demand model. Research shows that car sharing is capable of reducing car ownership with an estimation of 1 shared vehicle replacing 15 owned vehicles. The increasing cost of vehicle ownership, limitations on infrastructure expansion, increasing commute times, and the demand to curb GHG emissions have brought about a change in the millennial generations relationship with automobiles, which is likely to significantly impact mobility on demand industry trends.Company profiled in this report based on Business overview, Financial data, Product landscape, Strategic outlook & SWOT analysis:1. Al-Futtaim2. Avis Budget Group3. Cabify4. DiDi5. Easy (Easy Taxi)6. Enterprise Rent-A-Car7. Europcar8. Gett9. Grab10. Hertz11. Localiza Hertz12. Lyft13. Sixt14. Uber15. Zipcar16. Drivy17. ORIX Corporation18. DriveNow GmbH & Co. KGMobility on Demand (MOD) Market, By Service Car sharingo By business model Round trip One wayo By model P2P Station-based Free-floating Ride hailing Car rentalo Executive caro Luxury caro Economy caro SUVo MUVMake an inquiry for buying this report @The business space has evolved with extreme rapidity, as converging forces including the likes of powertrain technologies, widespread data connectivity, and connected & autonomous vehicles are making profound headways in the conventional mobility ecosystem. It is prudent to mention that the efforts undertaken by the regional governmental bodies to promote these services have been a key enabler in stimulating mobility on demand market growth. Say for instance, in the year before last, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) selected 11 projects under its flagship Mobility on Demand Sandbox Program. The move has already left its mark in the regional mobility on demand industry as one of the breakthrough initiatives undertaken by the U.S. Department of Transportation in recent years. Reportedly, the USD 8 million funding program mainly aimed to harness the maximum potential of the on-demand mobility options in the country by bringing groundbreaking innovative projects in the field.Mobility on Demand Market in business applications is poised to grow at a significant pace as these services help the corporate organizations to reduce the dependency on private fleets. Also, these services allow the organizations to significantly reduce fleet-related costs and optimize the fleet management. Companies such as Omoove and Ubeeqo provide these services to the corporations that are tailored according to their specific requirements.Technological advancements and the emerging IoT trend are further propelling the mobility on demand market growth. Rise in the number of connected vehicles and the increasing penetration of smartphones are anticipated to drive the industry. Various government organizations are focusing on encouraging digitalization for the overall economic growth. Technological developments, such as autonomous and AI-enabled vehicles, are expected to revolutionize the industry. Innovations, such as electric vehicles and GPS-based navigation systems, are anticipated to fuel the mobility on demand industry growth.Browse key industry insights spread across 400 pages with 510 market data tables & 32 figures & charts from the report, mobility on demand (MOD) market in detail along with the table of contents:The Germany mobility on demand market is expected to grow over the next six years due to the stringent regulations imposed on taxi drivers such as the obligation to operate taxi service and obligation to set rates. Increasing environmental consciousness and openness to innovations among the consumers are expected to drive industry growth. Several automobile companies in the country are entering the mobility on demand industry to regain the declining positions due to the reduction in car ownership. For instance, BMW Group entered the industry by forming a subsidiary, DriveNow, which is a car sharing company.The success of ride hailing services such as Lyft, Uber, and Ola has come to be highly dependent on new mobility on-demand market players, as they strive to build trust with key stakeholders such as regulators, consumers, insurers and investors. Using technologies to monitor and improve road safety is a vital part of this trust-building process that is certain to speed up the future of mobility on demand market. As public and regulatory confidence come to prevail, mobility on demand industry will witness commendable growth, with a CAGR estimation of 10% over 2018-2024.Key players in the mobility on demand market comprise Al-Futtaim, Autolib', Avis Budget Group, Cabify, CAR2GO, cambio CarSharing Deutschland, Cityhop cars by the hour, NZ's first carshare company, Communauto, DiDi, DriveNow GmbH & Co. KG, Drivy, Easy (Easy Taxi), Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Europcar, Getaround, Gett, Grab, Hertz, Localiza Hertz, Lyft, ORIX Corporation, Sidecar, Sixt, Uber, and Zipcar.Browse Related Reports:About Global Market InsightsGlobal Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact UsArun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Blog: To 2024, Endpoint Security Market is estimated to Grow at the Highest Growth Rate | Top Key Players are ESET, F-Secure Corporation, IBM, McAfee, Kaspersky Lab, Microsoft, Panda Security Endpoint Security Market www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1620 www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1620 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/endpoint-security-market https://www.openpr.com/news/1730781/Mobility-on-Demand-Market-will-show-strong-growth-through-2024-Global-Players-are-Cabify-Didi-asy-Tax-Enterprise-Rent-A-Car-Europcar-Grab-Lyft-Uber.html www.gminsights.com www.industry-source.org Endpoint security market is growing popularity of the BYOD trend in organizations around the world is also majorly contributing to the increased threat to enterprise networks for endpoint attacks. Tablets and smartphones have different capabilities, management interfaces, and operating systems. Hence, enabling centralized and consolidated network visibility is of utmost importance in BYOD environments.Endpoint security market, tagged as a revolutionary subset of the smart technology space, seems to have garnered the status of a niche vertical in the recent years. This growth can be precisely attributed to the fact that malware attacks have gained ferocity in stealing identities, draining bank accounts and generally bringing services to a standstill. In May 2017 for instance, a colossal cyberattack sealed down files and badly affected businesses, government bodies and the National Health Service of UK. Unfortunately, NHS back then, was still using an outdated version of the Windows operating system, the consequence of which led to MHS paying a heavy ransom in the form of bitcoins to retrieve the files.As budgets to improve client threat management witness an increase, endpoint security market outlook from the software segment is likely to undergo an even more positive transformation. It is prudent to mention however, that the success and effectiveness of endpoint security depends on the proper implementation and updation of the endpoint protection that has to combat with constantly evolving threats. This has consequently added a considerable boost to the service-based endpoint security industry share as well, which is likely to witness favorable growth over 2017-2024.Request for a sample of this research report @Company profiled in this report based on Business overview, Financial data, Product landscape, Strategic outlook & SWOT analysis:1. Bitdefender2. Cisco3. Cylance Inc.4. ESET5. F-Secure Corporation6. IBM7. McAfee8. Kaspersky Lab9. Microsoft10. Sophos11. Symantec12. Trend Micro13. ComodoBy Componento Softwareo Firewallo Intrusion preventiono Antivirus/antimalwareo Endpoint application controlo Encryption technologieso Mobile device securityo Fleet managemento Serviceo Training and consultingo Maintenance and updateso Managed serviceBy Deployment Modelo On-premiseo CloudMake an inquiry for purchasing this report @Asia Pacific Endpoint Security Market is projected to exhibit the fastest growth between 2017 and 2024. With the major focus on the digitization of economy in emerging countries including India and exploding penetration of smartphones and tablets and improving internet connectivity, the risk of malware attacks is being increasingly recognized in the region. Consequently, the adoption of endpoint security solutions in the region is expected to accelerate swiftly during the forecast timeline.North America dominated the endpoint security market in 2016 and is projected to maintain the dominance throughout the forecast period, primarily due to large-scale deployment of malware protection solutions for strengthening network security of government and corporate IT networks. In February 2018, the U.S. Director of National Intelligence revealed that the United States cybersecurity in both the public and private sectors is at a continual risk and the country should expect cyber attacks from various state and non-state actors. Such consistent cyber threats are leading to increased deployment of endpoint protection solutions across the country.The leading cyber security solutions provider is rightly touted as one of the most influential names in the global endpoint security market space having made a remarkable contribution to this sphere for over a decade now. The US based giant has recently unveiled a fully featured and its most advanced endpoint solution with an aim to bring together Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Mobile Threat Defense, intensive protection through advanced machine learning, and deception technology. Moreover, the latest solution is being described as the first of its kind across the endpoint security industry, as it delivers these features in a single form, lowers the overall costs, meets the challenges of the cloud generation by simplifying and improving security, and optimizes the environment of endpoint architecture. Concurrently, it would be prudent to mention that the new solution has been built on the firms Symantec Endpoint Protection (SEP) platform which is known to effectively tackle malwares and ransomwares.Browse key industry insights spread across 380 pages with 1032 market data tables & 14 figures & charts from the report, Endpoint Security Market in detail along with the table of contents:This revolutionary cyberattack which was later named WannaCry was an eye opener for the IT sector, which rapidly deduced that such attacks will only become more commonplace in the future if nothing definite and foolproof is done to thwart their onslaught. While numerous other incidences have served as focal drivers, this particular event was speculated to have a direct impact on endpoint security market trends.The competition in the endpoint security market is primarily characterized by constant product innovation initiatives by companies to strengthen the endpoint protection against rapidly evolving types of malware. As thousands of new pieces of malware are created by attackers each day, the companies providing antivirus/antimalware solutions constantly update their detection tools with the latest security patches.With consistently increasing stealthy, targeted, financially-motivated attacks aimed at exploiting vulnerabilities in endpoint devices, enterprises have become highly aware about employing a multilayered, seamless approach for endpoint protection. Signature-based antivirus and anti-spyware protection measures, which are traditionally used by enterprises are not sufficient to deal with constantly evolving cyber-threats today. Hence, the demand for advanced endpoint security solutions is consistently increasing among enterprise and government organizations.Top key players operating in the endpoint security market are AhnLab, Inc., Bitdefender, Cisco, Comodo, Cylance Inc., ESET,F-Secure Corporation, IBM, McAfee, Kaspersky Lab, Microsoft, Panda Security, Sophos, Symantec, Trend Micro, and VIPRE Security.Browse Related Reports:About Global Market InsightsGlobal Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact UsArun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Blog: Specialty Coatings Market Competitive Analysis to 2025: Evonik, PPG Industries, AkzoNobel, Henkel, BASF, Sherwin-Williams, The Dow Chemical Company, DuPont, Ashland, Mitsui & Co., Ltd., Valspar and Axalta Specialty Coatings https://www.researchformarkets.com/sample/global-specialty-coatings-market-327674 https://www.researchformarkets.com/reports/global-specialty-coatings-market-327674 https://www.researchformarkets.com/inquiry/global-specialty-coatings-market-327674 Specialty Coatings Market report has been prepared based on detailed market analysis with inputs from industry experts. Various definitions and classification of the industry, applications of the industry and chain structure are given. It also presents the company profile, product specifications, production value, Contact Information of manufacturer and market shares for company.Top players and brands are making moves such as developments, products launches, acquisitions, merges, joint ventures andcompetitive research in the Specialty Coatings market. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report.The Specialty Coatings Market report also consists of the all the market drivers and restrains which are derived from SWOT analysis while also giving all the CAGR projections for the historic year 2016 base year 2017 and forecast period of 2018-2025.Some Of The Key Players In Specialty Coatings Market Include: Ashland Evonik PPG Industries AkzoNobel Henkel BASF Sherwin-Williams The Dow Chemical Company Sumitomo Chemical: Group Companies of the Americas DuPont Valspar Nippon Paint (Pakistan) (Pvt) Ltd Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation (Global) HuaRun Carpoly Mitsui & Co., Ltd. Mitsui Chemicals Group Axalta Specialty Coating Systems, Inc. Expera Specialty SolutionsRequest Sample Copy of the Report @This report presents a comprehensive overview, market shares and growth opportunities of Specialty Coatings market by product type, application, key companies and key regions.In addition, this report discusses the key drivers influencing market growth, opportunities, the challenges and the risks faced by key players and the market as a whole. It also analyzes key emerging trends and their impact on present and future development.SEGMENTATION BY PRODUCT TYPE: Conformal Coating Corrosion Resistant Coating Shielding Coating Optical Coating Wear Resistant Coating OtherSEGMENTATION BY APPLICATION: Automotive Marine Aerospace & Defense Construction Electronics OtherRequest for Report Brochure for Latest Industry Insights @Major Table of Contents:Part 1 Industry OverviewPart 2 Industry OverallPart 3 Specialty Coatings Market by ProductPart 4 Key Companies ListPart 5 Market CompetitionPart 6 Market Demand by SegmentPart 7 Region OperationPart 8 Market InvestmentPart 9 ConclusionInquiry Before Buying@Report Synopsis1. Comprehensive quantitative analysis of the industry is provided for the period of 2016-2025 to assist stakeholders to capitalize on the prevailing market opportunities.2. Comprehensive analysis of the factors that drive and restrict the market growth is provided in the report.3. Comprehensive quantitative analysis of the industry is provided for the period of 2016-2025 to assist stakeholders to capitalize on the prevailing market opportunities.4. Extensive analysis of the key segments of the industry helps in understanding the trends in types of point of care test across Europe.5. To get a comprehensive overview of the Specialty Coatings market.Note: Any special requirements about this report, please let us know and we can provide custom report.About Us:Research For Markets indulge 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 System Integration Market to maintain a healthy growth in coming years | Vendors like HCL Technologies, HP, Huawei Technologies, IBM, Infosys, Oracle, NTT DATA Services, Fujitsu Global, Unisys, VCE, Accenture System Integration Market www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/1819 www.gminsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1819 https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/system-integration-market www.gminsights.com www.industry-source.org System Integration Market by service segment indicates that the infrastructure integration services dominates in terms of size. This is largely due to the high demand by organizations to improve the existing network infrastructure and provide a strong platform for the adoption of cloud computing and IoT in the business landscape. Additionally, government bodies are also investing heavily in providing broadband and network connectivity to consumers located in underserved and rural locations.Among other major end users of system integration services, it would be imperative to mention the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector. The rising demand for online banking and mobile applications will ensure that the BFSI domain emerges as a vital growth ground for system integration market in the ensuing years. The situation is also mainly attributed to the fact that banks majorly require these services to lower ownership costs, improve business processes, mitigate risks, and increase operational efficiency.System Integration Market growth will be driven by rising demand for internet connectivity has led to an increased requirement of hardware and software solutions in the IT and telecom industry over the forecast timeline. The emergence of advanced technology in communication services and a paradigm shift of the customer base from wired to wireless services has massively propelled system integration industry from the IT & telecom sector. In this regard, it would be prudent to mention that China has a pivotal role to play in augmenting the regional system integration industry size from IT applications, primarily on account of the evolution of 5G networks and a rise in business consultancy services. China in fact, has even launched a five-year plan to provide internet connectivity to rural areas.Request for a sample of this research report @Company profiled in this report based on Business overview, Financial data, Product landscape, Strategic outlook & SWOT analysis:1. HCL Technologies2. HP3. Huawei Technologies4. IBM5. Infosys6. Oracle7. NTT DATA Services8. Fujitsu Global9. Unisys10. VCE11. GTL Limited12. Accenture13. Capgemini14. Cisco15. CSC16. Dell17. Deloitte18. Dell EMCGrowth Drivers: Growth of cloud computing solutions in the U.S. and Western Europe Increase in organizational and consumer data in Europe and Asia Pacific High growth of SMEs and industrialization boom in China and India Rising demand for outsourced services in the U.S. and UK Large shift towards automation technologies in the manufacturing industry in South East Asia Increase in mobile penetration and broadband infrastructure in South East Asia Technological advancements in Philippines drives the demand for professional services Digital transformation boom in Malaysia and India couple with government investments drives the system integration market Rising IT spend in UAEAmong the various segments that contribute toward system integration market growth, integrated building management system would require a special mention. Technological developments in the system integration industry have led integrated buildings to be able to maintain heating/cooling and even support energy conservation, monitor individual power supplies and initiate emergency response. According to the research conducted by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, investing in an integrated building management system can improve the productivity of employees and occupants and save more than 14% in annual costs measured in lost productivity.Make an inquiry for buying this report @The system integration market in the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness high growth during the forecast timeframe owing to the increase in the number of SMEs and the provision of low cost service offerings in the region. Countries such as Philippines and India are hubs of consulting and outsourcing activities. This comprise large pools of highly skilled workforce with low hourly wages, allowing foreign players to adopt these services.The increase in government initiatives, primarily in economies such as China, India, and Philippines, promoting the growth of SMEs is amplifying the demand of the system integration market. These services are essential as they provide substantial cost savings by decreasing the duplication of data and the need to test and perform security checks on the different hardware or software systems across an organization.The high initial costs associated with using these services and the lack of the appropriate broadband infrastructure and network are some of the major factors that might hinder the growth of system integration market. SMEs for instance, are a severely restricted financial budget and hence have difficulty in accessing this facility. However, highly skilled labor has been helping to lower the overall costs of these services and is anticipated to drive system integration industry demand in the long term. More recently, the rising prominence of IoT and the advent of Industry 4.0 have heightened the importance of the interconnection of various disjointed hardware and software solutions throughout the organization. This will unrefutably fuel system integration industry share, slated to increase at a CAGR of 6% over 2017-2024.Top vendors in the system integration market include Accenture, AGC Networks Ltd., ASI System Integration, Inc., Capgemini, CGI, Cisco, CSC, Dell, Deloitte, Dell EMC, Fujitsu Global, GTL Limited, HCL Technologies, Hitachi, HP, Huawei Technologies, IBM, Infosys, MuleSoft, NTT DATA Services, Oracle, Orion Systems, ASI System Integration, Inc., Tech Mahindra, Teradata, Tieto, Trigent Software Inc, and Unisys,VCE.Browse key industry insights spread across 250 pages with 259 market data tables & 41 figures & charts from the report, System Integration Market in detail along with the table of contents:About Global Market InsightsGlobal Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.Contact UsArun HegdeCorporate Sales, USAGlobal Market Insights, Inc.Phone: 1-302-846-7766Toll Free: 1-888-689-0688Email: sales@gminsights.comWeb:Blog: Health IT Security Market | SailPoint Technologies, Symantec, Hewlett Packard, AT&T, EMC Corporation, IBM Corporation, Wipro, and Verizon https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=B&rep_id=1481 https://www.tmrresearch.com/sample/sample?flag=T&rep_id=1481 Health IT security is needed by organizations to combat cybercrime and ransomware that hospitals and healthcare organizations are susceptible to. The complex infrastructure and the range of devices used by healthcare organizations provide a host of entry and pivot points that cybercriminals can exploit. This requires hospitals and healthcare organizations to be equipped to sustain the evolving threat landscape and comprehend the most common areas of cyber security risk.Amongst all attacks that hospitals and healthcare organizations are susceptible to, ransomware has surfaced as the most feared hacking technique. The technique has the potential to allow hackers to seal access to data until a sum of money is paid to them. As per findings of a recent research, hospitals are the target of 88% of cases of ransomware. The other areas that pose risk of data breach for hospitals and healthcare organizations are inadequately secured IoT devices and human error element. This, along with HIPPAA and other regulatory requirements necessitate health information to be protected. Healthcare organizations have plentiful serious security considerations that must be timely addressed in order to ensure patient safety and privacy.Get Brochure of the Report @Healthcare organizations are implementing a number of processes to maximize the security effort and attain compliance. These are establishing a security plan, prioritize offline storage, secure biomedical devices, educate users, and train patients. This is because information security and patient privacy are key components of a well-operating healthcare environment. Moreover, the privacy and security realms of healthcare information and management systems society (HIMSS) provide resources so as to assist healthcare organizations with their privacy and security goals.Global Health IT Security Market: OverviewIncreasing incidences of highly specialized and extensive data security breaches in the healthcare industry has brought to the fore the pressing need to employ effective security measures across healthcare IT systems. Data breaches continue to cost the healthcare industry hefty sums on an annual basis, with countries having technologically advanced healthcare infrastructures such as the U.S. and several European countries suffering the most. As a result, the tremendous monetary pressure as well as negative publicity that weak cybersecurity can bring to an organization is garnering increased focus and the healthcare industry is ramping up its spending on IT security.This report on the global health IT security market presents a detailed overview of the growth dynamics of the market in present times and includes vast projections regarding the growth prospects of the market over period between 2016 and 2024. The report includes comprehensive qualitative as well as quantitative data pertaining to key market segments and their valuation, expected rate of growth over the mentioned period, and overall attractiveness across regional markets.Global Health IT Security Market: Trends and OpportunitiesThe healthcare industry is coming to terms with the fact that data breaches have been consistently rising in terms of impact, frequency, volume, and cost over the past few years. Also, the fact that data breaches in present times are highly professional in the way they are planned and executed makes it necessary for healthcare organizations to be equally proactive and prepared in the way security of the organization is planned and executed. The need to assess the present state of security readiness and implement a much more effective security model is the key factor driving the global health IT security market.The market is also driven by the increasing penetration of mobile devices in internal networks of a healthcare IT infrastructure, stringent regulations, and rising spending by government bodies on IT security. Evolution of highly effective futuristic IT security solutions for the healthcare industry and the increasing adoption of cloud computing models for accessing IT security solutions at economical and pay-as-use pricing models are also fueling the adoption of health IT security solutions globally.Global Health IT Security Market: SegmentationThe key product varieties offered by the health IT security market include risk and compliance management solutions, disaster recovery, firewalls and unified threat management solutions, antimalware and antivirus, intrusion detection/intrusion prevention systems, and identity and access management solutions. On the basis of services, the health IT security market can be segmented into upgradation, maintenance, implementation, managed services, consulting, and on-going support.The key applications of health IT security solutions are found across areas such as endpoint security, content security and network security. Based on the mode of delivery of health IT security solutions, the market is segmented into on-premise, cloud, and hybrid. The key end users of health IT security solutions are healthcare payers (insurance firms) and healthcare providers.Global Health IT Security Market: Regional and Competitive OutlookFrom a geographical perspective, developed regions such as Europe and North America are the leading contributors to the revenue of the global health IT security market. The digitally and technologically advanced healthcare infrastructures in these regions have been the prime targets of the recent times most costly and sophisticated cyber-attacks. In response to this, these regions are significantly increasing spending on cybersecurity. These regions are expected to remain the leading contributors to the global market in the next few years as well.Get TOC for Detailed Facts and Numbers @In the highly competitive and fragmented vendor landscape of the global health IT security market, no major vendor accounts for a dominant share. Some of the leading companies operating in the market are Intel Corporation, SailPoint Technologies, Symantec, Hewlett Packard, AT&T, EMC Corporation, IBM Corporation, Wipro, and Verizon.Highlights of the report:A detailed analysis of key segments of the marketRecent developments in the markets competitive landscapeDetailed analysis of market segments up to second or third level of segmentationHistorical, current, and projected future valuation of the market in terms of revenue and/or volumeKey business strategies adopted by influential market vendorsOutline of the regulatory framework surrounding and governing numerous aspects of the marketGrowth opportunities in emerging and established marketsRecommendations to market players to stay ahead of the competitionAbout Us:TMR Research is a premier provider of customized market research and consulting services to business entities keen on succeeding in todays supercharged economic climate. Armed with an experienced, dedicated, and dynamic team of analysts, we are redefining the way our clients conduct business by providing them with authoritative and trusted research studies in tune with the latest methodologies and market trends.Contact Us:Rohit BhiseyHead Internet MarketingTel: +1-415-520-1050 Why Retail Cybersecurity Market is Becoming Increasingly Popular in the Technology Industry? https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/7373 https://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/toc/7373 http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/ Recent research and the current scenario as well as future market potential of Retail Cybersecurity Market Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast 2017 2025Computer security or cyber security involves protection of computer systems from various theft or damage done to hardware or software along with saving systems from service related disruptions. It includes controlling the physical access to the hardware along with protecting against harm that might come via data and code injection or network access. Many a times, it is also seen that malpractices by operators either intentional or accidental leads to the IT security problems. System becomes susceptible to being tricked into other deviations from secure procedures through different methods. Cyber security that provides protection to systems, networks and data within cyberspace is an extremely important issue for all businesses and its smooth functioning in the long run. This is likely to gain more importance with growth in internet penetration and application. Retail industry is experiencing huge growth along with rising advancements and application of technology that are used for maintaining the demand and supply of customers. This has led to the application of cyber security in retail sector resulting in the growth of retail cyber security market. Segmentation for the global cyber security market has been done on the basis of solutions, security type and geography. Based on solutions, this market has been segmented into risk & compliance management, unified threat management, security and vulnerability management, web filtering, encryption and disaster recovery among others. Network, cloud, application and wireless security among others are the various segmentations for this global market based on security type.Get Sample Copy of this report @Global retail cybersecurity market on the basis of geography has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East and Africa.Online retail industry is experiencing immense growth as customers nowadays are opting for faster technological solutions to purchase what they need that has been a major driver for this retail cybersecurity market. Time saving processes along with cost-effectiveness associated with the online retail industry has helped in the rising demand for this market. Along with this, the technological advancement has also lead to the rising chances of cyber-attacks leading to the loss of confidential information of customers that further boosted the demand for retail cyber security globally. Considering these drivers, there are certain factors that has negative impact on the overall market. Some of these factors include the technological risk associated with computer such as virus or malware along with the malpractices done by certain operators that has negatively impacted the global market. Post consideration of all these drivers and restraints, it is the growth of IoT (Internet of things) technology along with the prevention of computer systems from ransomware that is likely to provide opportunities for the growth of this market during the coming years.Geographically, it is North America that is expected to dominate the global market followed by Europe. The growth of online retail sector along with rise in application of IoT technology has been some major drivers to push the growth of this market. Asia Pacific has contributed to be another major region for this market along with accounting one of the fastest growth globally. Some major countries contributing to the growth in this region includes China and India among others. Rise in internet penetration along with growth of online retail sector has been some of the important aspects to have a positive impact on this market.Some of the key companies that are operating in the global retail cybersecurity market include Symantec Corporation (The U.S.), IBM Corporation (The U.S.), EMC RSA (The U.S.), Intel Security (The U.S.), Hewlett-Packard Enterprise (The U.S.), Cisco Systems, Inc. (The U.S.), Fireeye, Inc. (The U.S.), Rapid7, Inc. (The U.S.), Trend Micro, Inc. (Japan) and Sophos Ltd. (The U.K.) among others.Request For TOC Report @MRR.BIZ has been compiled in-depth market research data in the report after exhaustive primary and secondary research. Our team of able, experienced in-house analysts has collated the information through personal interviews and study of industry databases, journals, and reputable paid sources.The report provides the following information:Tailwinds and headwinds molding the markets trajectoryMarket segments based on products, technology, and applicationsProspects of each segmentOverall current and possible future size of the marketGrowth pace of the marketCompetitive landscape and key players strategiesThe main aim of the report is to:Enable key stakeholders in the market bet right on itUnderstand the opportunities and pitfalls awaiting themAssess the overall growth scope in the near termStrategize effectively with respect to production and distributionMRR.BIZ is a leading provider of strategic market research. Our vast repository consists research reports, data books, company profiles, and regional market data sheets. We regularly update the data and analysis of a wide-ranging products and services around the world. As readers, you will have access to the latest information on almost 300 industries and their sub-segments. Both large Fortune 500 companies and SMEs have found those useful. This is because we customize our offerings keeping in mind the specific requirements of our clients.About usMarketResearchReports.biz is the most comprehensive collection of market research reports. MarketResearchReports.Biz services are specially designed to save time and money for our clients. We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types of companies spanning across various industries.ContactMr. NachiketState Tower90 Sate Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-621-2074Website:E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz Global (United States, European Union And China) File Folders Market Research Report 2019-2025 https://www.researchtrades.com/discount/1679389 https://www.researchtrades.com/request-sample/1679389 www.researchtrades.com In 2019, the market size of File Folders is million US$ and it will reach million US$ in 2025, growing at a CAGR of from 2019; while in China, the market size is valued at xx million US$ and will increase to xx million US$ in 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during forecast period.Request for discount@In this report, 2018 has been considered as the base year and 2019 to 2025 as the forecast period to estimate the market size for File Folders.This report studies the global market size of File Folders, especially focuses on the key regions like United States, European Union, China, and other regions (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia).This study presents the File Folders sales volume, revenue, market share and growth rate for each key company, and also covers the breakdown data (sales, revenue and market share) by regions, type and applications. history breakdown data from 2014 to 2019, and forecast to 2025.For top companies in United States, European Union and China, this report investigates and analyzes the production, value, price, market share and growth rate for the top manufacturers, key data from 2014 to 2019.In global market, the following companies are covered: Staples, Smead, Avery, Deli, Pottery Barn, Rattan Legal, M&G, USIGNMarket Segment by Product Type: PP File Folders, Paper Folder, Report Folder, OthersMarket Segment by Application: Office, School, Home Use, OtherKey Regions split in this report: breakdown data for each region.: United States, China, European Union, Rest of World (Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)The study objectives are:To analyze and research the File Folders status and future forecast in United States, European Union and China, involving sales, value (revenue), growth rate (CAGR), market share, historical and forecast.To present the key File Folders manufacturers, presenting the sales, revenue, market share, and recent development for key players.To split the breakdown data by regions, type, companies and applicationsTo analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks.To identify significant trends, drivers, influence factors in global and regionsTo analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the marketIn this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of File Folders are as follows: History Year: 2014-2018, Base Year: 2018, Estimated Year: 2019, Forecast Year 2019 to 2025Request for Sample with TOC@Table of Contents1 Report Overview1.1 Study Scope1.2 Major Manufacturers Covered in This Report1.3 Market Segment by Type1.3.1 Global File Folders Market Size Growth Rate by Type (2019-2025)1.3.2 PP File Folders1.3.3 Paper Folder1.3.4 Report Folder1.3.5 Others1.4 Market Segment by Application1.4.1 Global File Folders Market Share by Application (2019-2025)1.4.2 Office1.4.3 School1.4.4 Home Use1.4.5 Other1.5 Study Objectives1.6 Years Considered2 Global Growth Trends2.1 Global File Folders Market Size2.1.1 Global File Folders Revenue 2014-20252.1.2 Global File Folders Sales 2014-20252.2 File Folders Growth Rate by Regions2.2.1 Global File Folders Sales by Regions 2014-20192.2.2 Global File Folders Revenue by Regions 2014-20192.3 Industry Trends2.3.1 Market Top Trends2.3.2 Market Drivers3 Market Share by Manufacturers3.1 File Folders Sales by Manufacturers3.1.1 File Folders Sales by Manufacturers 2014-20193.1.2 File Folders Sales Market Share by Manufacturers 2014-20193.2 Revenue by Manufacturers3.2.1 File Folders Revenue by Manufacturers (2014-2019)3.2.2 File Folders Revenue Share by Manufacturers (2014-2019)3.2.3 Global File Folders Market Concentration Ratio (CR5 and HHI)3.3 File Folders Price by Manufacturers3.4 Key Manufacturers File Folders Plants/Factories Distribution and Area Served3.5 Date of Key Manufacturers Enter into File Folders Market3.6 Key Manufacturers File Folders Product Offered3.7 Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansion Plans4 Market Size by Type4.1 Sales and Revenue for Each Type4.1.1 PP File Folders Sales and Revenue (2014-2019)4.1.2 Paper Folder Sales and Revenue (2014-2019)4.1.3 Report Folder Sales and Revenue (2014-2019)4.1.4 Others Sales and Revenue (2014-2019)4.2 Global File Folders Sales Market Share by Type4.3 Global File Folders Revenue Market Share by Type4.4 File Folders Price by TypeWho we areResearch Trades has a team of experts who is working on a comprehensive analysis of market research. This estimate is based on a comprehensive study of the future and estimates of future estimates, which can be used by various organizations for growth purposes. We distribute customized reports that focus on meeting the customers specific requirement. Our company provides a large collection of high-quality reports obtained by customer-centered approaches, thus providing valuable research insights.Contact Us:Email: sales@researchtrades.comCall us: +1 6269994607 (USA), +91 7507349866 (IND)Web:Skype ID: researchtradescon Circulation Heater Market 2019- Scope, Product Analysis, Growth Prospect and Industry Outlook by 2025 Circulation heaters are compact heating systems for fluids and gases. The circulation heaters market is expected to grow at a stable rate over the forecast period owing to the increasing demand of it in industries. Global Circulation Heater Market reports provide CAGR Value 2019-2025 and analysis of Top Players, Geography, End users, Applications, Competitor analysis, Sales, Revenue, Price, Gross Margin, Market Share, Trends and Forecast. DOWNLOAD SAMPLE OF THIS PREMIUM REPORT AT https://inforgrowth.com/sample-request/2082174/circulation-heater-market The Global Circulation Heater market analyzes and researches the Circulation Heater development status and forecast in United States, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia, India & Central & South America. The Global Circulation Heater Market focuses on global major leading industry players 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. Key Players covered in Circulation Heater Market report are NIBE, Watlow, Chromalox, Zhenjiang Dongfang Electric Heating Technology Co.,Ltd, Friedr. Freek GmbH, OMEGA, Zoppas Industries, Thermowatt, Tutco Heating Solutions Group, Tempco Electric Heating Element Corporation, CCI Thermal Technologies, Headway Electric Heat Components CO., LTD, Hotset GmbH, Minco, Durex Industries, Holroyd Components Ltd, Honeywell, Thermal Corporation, Winkler GmbH, Industrial Heater Corporation. GET SPECIAL DISCOUNT UP TO 50% FOR THIS REPORT https://inforgrowth.com/discount/2082174/circulation-heater-market Report analysed by applications like Chemical & Plastics Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Transportation, Appliances, Others. Then report is analysed on the basis of product Water Circulation Heaters, Oil Circulation Heaters, Corrosive Liquid and Gas Circulation Heaters, Steam, Air and Gas Circulation Heaters. Market size split by Region North America, United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia-Pacific, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Europe, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Russia, Central & South America, Brazil, Rest of Central & South America, Middle East & Africa, GCC Countries, Turkey, Egypt, South Africa. The Circulation Heater industry development trends and marketing channels are analysed. Finally, the feasibility of new investment projects are assessed, and overall research conclusions offered. ORDER A COPY OF CIRCULATION HEATER MARKET 2019-2025 REPORT AT https://inforgrowth.com/purchase/2082175/circulation-heater-market-SingleUser With the tables and figures, the report 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. Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures are also analyzed. This report also states supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins. The Circulation Heater Market report provides key statistics on the market status of the Circulation Heater manufacturers and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the industry. Major Points Covered in Table of Contents: 1 Report Overview 2 Global Growth Trends 3 Market Share by Manufacturers 4 Market Size by Type 5 Market Size by Application 6 Production by Regions 7 Circulation Heater Consumption by Regions 8 Company Profiles 9 Market Forecast 10 Value Chain and Sales Channels Analysis 11 Opportunities & Challenges, Threat and Affecting Factors 12 Key Findings and More ASK FOR CUSTOM REQUIREMENTS OR QUERIES ABOUT THIS REPORT AT https://inforgrowth.com/customization/2082174/circulation-heater-market About InForGrowth: We are a market-intelligence company formed with the objective of providing clients access to the most relevant and accurate research content for their growth needs. At InForGrowth, we understand Research requirements and help a client in taking informed business critical decisions. Given the complexities and interdependencies of market-intelligence, there is always more than one source to explore and arrive at the right answer. Through our smart search feature and our reliable & trusted publishing partners, we are paving way for a more simplified and relevant research. For all your Research needs, reach out to us at: Address: 6400 Village Pkwy suite # 104, Dublin, CA 94568, USA Contact Person: Rohan Email: sales@inforgrowth.com US: +1-909-329-2808 UK: +44 (203) 743 1890 This release was published on openPR. Permanent link to this press release: Copy Please set a link in the press area of your homepage to this press release on openPR. openPR disclaims liability for any content contained in this release. Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market Size Industry Analysis, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2019 - 2025 Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/124050 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/enquiry_before_buying/124050 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/requested_sample/124050 https://www.upmarketresearch.com/home/request_for_discount/124050 www.upmarketresearch.com Up Market Research published a new business report on Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market. The report provides a comprehensive analysis by key players and regions. 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The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 20192026.The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions. The statistics are represented in graphical format for a clear understanding on facts and figures.For More Information On This Report, Please VisitThe 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.The report for Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market analysis & forecast 2019-2026 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Global Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market Segmentation Includes:Region-wise Analysis covers:North AmericaEuropeChinaJapanIndiaSoutheast AsiaOther regions (Central & South America, Middle East & Africa)The Major players include:JinhaoWilmar International LimitedGreen-seaGuitaitaiRunxinoilDeerleAcemeliaiWaltt Products Co.,LtdShanrunLaozhiqin (Fujian) Oil Co., LtdProduct Type Analysis:ExpellingLixiviation ProcessApplication Analysis:FoodCosmeticsOthersGet Exclusive Free Sample Copy Of This Report @Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market Analysis and Forecast 2019-2026 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 analysis of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Global Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market 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 Extra Virgin Camellia Oil Market analysis and forecast 2019-2026.Avail Discount On This Report @Customization 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:The 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. Stun Gun Market Perspective by Comprehensive Analysis Growth Prediction to 2026 Stun Gun Market https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/666 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/talk-to-analyst/666 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/666 Stun guns market refers to the business generated by the non-lethal conducted electrical weapons (CEWs) that are primarily utilized for the self-defense and law enforcement agencies. Ability to incapacitate the potential suspect through the delivery of high voltage electric shocks, with the prime motive of disrupting the muscle functions for small amount of time without causing substantial damage is expected to remain the primary growth driver of the industry over the forecast period.For In depth Information Get Sample Copy of this Report @Increasing concerns and requirement of preparedness to counter the proliferating threats to womens safety and irregular upsurge of civil riots are expected to drive the industry growthNumber of criminal and rape incidents, in most economies is among the primary concern of the government agencies. Some of the major economies that include Australia, U.S., New Zealand, Norway and France are among the developed economies that have the highest reported incidents per 100,000 citizens. According to the Nations Master crime and rape rate statistics, these countries had over 15 rapes per 100,000 inhabitants. Moreover, usage of lethal weapons is substantially discouraged for the personal protection and are significantly difficult to afford. Requirement of preparedness in case of threat to personal safety are expected to drive the overall industry growth through the next few years. Moreover, functionality of some of the products that feature usability in adverse weather conditions, when pepper sprays or other self-defense tactics prove inefficient, are expected to propel the adoption rates.Stun Gun Market TaxonomyOn the basis of product types, the global stun gun market is classified into:Compact, Heavy Duty, Stun Gun Flashlight / Taser Flashlight, Stun Baton, Other forms (wands, batons, electrified brass knuckles, "iPhones", or other concealed objects)On the basis of end users, the global stun gun market is classified into:Civilians, Military and Law enforcementIrregular possibilities of civil unrest and requirement to maintain the law and order without critical damage to the civilians will present considerable growth prospectsFrance, Argentina, Myanmar, Mexico, Bangladesh, and India are among the most civil unrest prone regions, owing to substantial number of news headlines associated with the civil riots. Moreover, some riots in these countries past have witnessed requirements of military interventions to ensure the peace. Recurring surfacing of such incidences are expected to be the most prominent stun gun market growth driver over the forecast period. Additionally these find significant applications for probes against convicts who are under the influence of alcohol and drugs, which reduces their sensitivity to pain.Inquire Here Before Purchase of Research Report @Advent of CEWs that can monitor heart rates rhythms with featuring over 99.75% human life safety are gaining significant tractionIn August 2016, Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center researchers successfully developed stun guns that was capable of recording the subject individuals heart rhythm and rates and capability to avoid serious injuries and fatalities. Increasing incidences of the serious incidents owing to pre-medical conditions, when using these devices are doing the rounds in media. Moreover, these serious injuries and deaths often included other risk factors, including drug use. These developments will ensure the human life safety and drive the stun gun market.Law enforcement agencies are anticipated to continue the industry dominance through the forecast periodMajor factors driving the segment growth are the increasing adoption of stun guns by special police forces and law enforcement agencies in major countries such as the US, Australia, and Canada. Moreover, increased awareness in the developing and underdeveloped economies about the benefits of these devices will drive the overall product demands through the forecast period.Request For Customization @About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com New Profitable Report on The Consumer Banking Service Market by 2019 - 2023: Top Key Players Allied Irish Bank, Aldermore, Bank Of Ireland UK, Close Brothers, The Co-Operative Bank, Cybg, TSB Consumer Banking Service Market https://www.businessindustryreports.com/sample-request/153901 https://www.businessindustryreports.com/check-discount/153901 Consumer Banking Service Market research report 2019 - 2023 provides the newest industry data and industry future trends, allowing you to identify the products and end users driving Revenue growth and profitability.Global Consumer Banking Service Market Synopsis:The Global Consumer Banking Service Market research 2019 highlights the major details and provides in-depth analysis of the market along with the future growth, prospects and Industry demands analysis explores with the help of complete report with 125 Pages, figures, graphs and table of contents to analyze the situations of global Consumer Banking Service Market and Assessment to 2023.Get Sample Study Papers of Global Consumer Banking Service Market @This report studies the Consumer Banking Service Market over the forecast amount of 2019 to 2023. The Consumer Banking Service Market is anticipated to grow at a powerful Compound Annual rate of growth (CAGR) from 2019 to 2023.This report studies the Consumer Banking Service market size by players, regions, product types and end industries, history data 2014-2018 and forecast data 2019-2023; This report also studies the global market competition landscape, market drivers and trends, opportunities and challenges, risks and entry barriers, sales channels, distributors and Porter's Five Forces Analysis.Consumer banking is the typical mass-market banking in which individual customers use local branches of larger commercial banks. Consumer Banking Service aims to be the one-stop shop for as many financial services as possible on behalf of individual retail clients. Consumers expect a range of basic services from retail banks, such as checking accounts, savings accounts, personal loans, lines of credit, mortgages, debit cards, credit cards and CDs.Industry News: TSB has won the Consumer NZ Peoples Choice award for Banking for the third year in a row, following the results of the 2018 Consumer NZ bank survey. To achieve the Peoples Choice award, a brand must stand out in terms of customer satisfaction. TSB had the highest customer satisfaction result at 87% and is the first bank to receive this award for three consecutive years. It also scored above average on four of Consumer NZs five core performance measures.Consumer Banking Service Market Covers the Table of Contents With Segments, Key Players And Region. On the Basis of Product Type, Consumer Banking Service Market is sub segmented into Traditional and Digital Led. Based on Industry, Market is sub segmented into Transactional Accounts, Savings Accounts, Debit Cards, Credit Cards, Loans, Others.Request a Discount on standard prices of this premium report @Major players profiled in the Consumer Banking Service Market report incorporate: Allied Irish Bank (UK), Aldermore Bank, Bank Of Ireland UK, Close Brothers, The Co-Operative Bank, Cybg, First Direct, Handelsbanken, Masthaven Bank, Metro Bank, Onesavings Bank, Paragon Bank, Secure Trust Bank, Shawbrook Bank, TSB, Virgin Money.Region segment: This report is segmented into several key regions, with sales, revenue, market share (%) and growth Rate (%) of Consumer Banking Service in these regions, from 2014 to 2023 (forecast), covering: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South America.The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.Noteworthy focuses in chapter by chapter guide: Market Definition, Market Overview, Business Introduction, Segmentation (Region Level), Segmentation (Type Level), Segmentation (Industry Level), Segmentation (Channel Level), Market Forecast Year, Segmentation Type, Segmentation Industry, Market Cost Analysis, and Conclusion.Report contents include1 Analysis of the Consumer Banking Service Market including revenues, future growth, market outlook2 Historical data and forecast3 Regional analysis including growth estimates4 Analyzes the end user markets including growth estimates.5 Profiles on Consumer Banking Service including products, sales/revenues, and market position6 Market structure, market drivers and restraints.About usBusinessindustryReports.com is digital database of comprehensive market reports for global industries. 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.Media ContactBusiness Industry ReportsPune Indiasales@businessindustryreports.com+19376349940 Rapid Growth of Social Networking Software Market | Key Companies- Hivebrite, Zoho, eXo, Sprout Social, Yammer, mooSocial | Forecasts till 2023 Social Networking Software Market https://www.businessindustryreports.com/sample-request/94980 https://www.businessindustryreports.com/check-discount/94980 Social Networking Software Market report includes - Industry Future Trends, Growth Opportunity, Experts reviews and forecast period (2019-2023). A wide range of Applications, Utilization Ratio, Supply and Demand analysis are also consist in the Report. At the end report introduced new project SWOT analysis, investment feasibility analysis.Global Social Networking Software Market overview:Detailed Study on Social Networking Software is growing at a CAGR during Forecasts year 2023. This Report covers the Major Players data, including: shipment, revenue, gross profit, interview record, business distribution etc., these data help the consumer know about the competitors better. This report also covers all the regions and countries of the world, which shows a regional development status, including market size.Available Exclusive Sample Copy of this Report @The growth of the Social Networking Software Market is driven as there is favourable growth in the industry is a major factor which will boost the global Social Networking Software market.The Global Social Networking Software Market is segmented on the basis of Product Type, End use Industry and Region. On the Basis of Product Type segment, the Social Networking Software Market is sub segmented into Type I, Type II. Based on End use Industry segment, the Social Networking Software Market is sub segmented into PC Terminal, Mobile Terminal.In terms of the geographic analysis, North America is estimated to command a large share in the Social Networking Software Market owing to the high penetration of social media and domicile of a large number of key players. However, the market in this region is mature in nature. APAC is estimated to emerge as a lucrative market over the forecast horizon. The growth of the region can be primarily attributed to the rising penetration of smartphones and expanding base of internet subscribers.The report is a compilation of first-hand information, qualitative and quantitative assessment by industry analysts, inputs from industry experts and industry participants across the value chain. The report provides in-depth analysis of parent market trends, macro-economic indicators and governing factors along with market attractiveness as per segments. The report also maps the qualitative impact of various market factors on market segments and geographies.Grab Your Report at an Impressive Discount @Some of the major players that operate in the Global Key Market are Hivebrite, Zoho, eXo, Sprout Social, Yammer, mooSocial, MangoApps, Jive Software, Honey, IBM.Latest Industry Updates:IBM- (03 May 2019): Vodafone Idea Limited ("Vodafone Idea") announced signing a multi-million-dollar five-year agreement with IBM to deliver an enhanced customer experience to millions of connected consumers and businesses in India. In addition, this engagement will also contribute to Vodafone Ideas merger synergy objectives by reducing its IT related costs.The collaboration will provide Vodafone Idea with a hybrid cloud based digital platform to enable more intimate engagement with its over 387 million subscribers (as of December 31, 2018), enhancing business efficiency, agility and scale plus simplification of its business processes. We believe that this new infrastructure platform will remove constraints to the exponential growth of data usage driven by increasing consumption of video, streaming and digital commerce.Vodafone Idea is collaborating with leading global technology partners including IBM to deploy new age technologies with built-in customizations and novel innovations. We believe that use of IBMs Hybrid and Multicloud, analytics and AI security capabilities will accelerate Vodafone Ideas progression to an open, agile and secure IT environment. It will also provide a platform for fast-track joint initiatives in AI and IOT.Market segment by Regions/Countries, this report covers:1 North America Country (United States, Canada)2 South America3 Asia Country (China, Japan, India, Korea)4 Europe Country (Germany, UK, France, Italy)5 Other Country (Middle East, Africa, GCC)Table of Contents:Global Social Networking Software Market Report 20191 Social Networking Software Definition2 Global Social Networking Software Market Major Player Share and Market Overview3 Major Player Social Networking Software Business Introduction4 Global Social Networking Software Market Segmentation (Region Level)5 Global Social Networking Software Market Segmentation (Product Type Level)6 Global Social Networking Software Market Segmentation (Industry Level)About usBusinessindustryReports.com is digital database of comprehensive market reports for global industries. 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.Media ContactBusiness Industry ReportsPune Indiasales@businessindustryreports.com+19376349940 2019 2023 Latest Trending Report on Bionic Devices Market Rise in Inclusive to Promote Growth | Bionik Laboratories, Abiomed, Activelink, Advanced Bionics, Axosuits, BAE Systems, Bionx Medical Technologies Bionic Devices Market https://www.businessindustryreports.com/sample-request/137634 https://www.businessindustryreports.com/buy-now/137634/single https://www.businessindustryreports.com/check-discount/137634 The exclusive research report on the Global Bionic Devices Market 2019 examines the market in detail along with focusing on significant market dynamics for the key players operating in the market. Global Bionic Devices Industry research report offers granulated yet in-depth analysis of revenue share, market segments, revenue estimates and various regions across the globe.Global Bionic Devices Market Overview:The report spread across 125 pages is an overview of the Global Bionic Devices Market Report 2019. The Global Bionic Devices Market is projected to grow at a healthy growth rate from 2019 to 2023 according to new research. The study focuses on market trends, leading players, supply chain trends, technological innovations, key developments, and future strategies.The Global Bionic Devices Market research report is the study prepared by analysts, which contain a detailed analysis of drivers, restraints, and opportunities along with their impact on the Bionic Devices Market growth (2019 - 2023).Available Exclusive Sample Copy of this Report @Some of the significant factors driving the growth of the Global Bionic Devices Market are rapid growth in aging worldwide populace, expanding number of individuals suffering from organ failure and growing occurrence of motor accidents and other work-related accidents. However, inalienable cost of these items to the patients who require them and fright of gadget malfunction or failure is hindering the market.The Global Bionic Devices Market is segmented on the basis of Product Type, End-User and Region. Based on the Product Type, the Global Bionic Devices Market is sub-segmented into Cochlear Implants, Exoskeletons, Cardiac Bionics and Ventricular Assist Device. On the basis of End-User, the Global Bionic Devices Market is classified into Hospital, Clinic and others.In terms of the regional analysis, North America captured the highest share during the forecast period (2019 - 2023), due to increase per capita income and growing alertness among the populace.Industry News:BIONIK Laboratories (January 23, 2019) BIONIK Laboratories Launches Next-Generation InMotion ARM / HAND Robotic System to Improve Rehabilitation for Stroke Survivors BIONIK Laboratories Corp., a pioneering healthcare company combining artificial intelligence and innovative robotics technology to help individuals from hospital to home regain mobility, today announced the commercial launch of its newest generation InMotion ARM / HAND robotic system for clinical rehabilitation of stroke survivors and those with mobility impairments due to neurological conditions. The Company is showcasing the new technology for the first time at its booth (#736) at the American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting (APTA CSM) being held January 23-26 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.Purchase this report online with 125 Pages, List of Tables & Figures and in-depth Table of Contents on Global Bionic Devices Market Report 2019 @Top Leading Key Manufacturers are:1 Abiomed Inc.2 Activelink3 Advanced Bionics4 Alterg5 Axosuits6 Bae Systems7 Bionx Medical Technologies8 B-Temia9 Bana Teknoloji10 Bionik Laboratories and More..Region segment: This report is segmented into several key regions, with sales, revenue, market share (%) and growth Rate (%) of Bionic Devices in these regions, from 2013 to 2023 (forecast), covering: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South AmericaGrab Your Report at an Impressive Discount @In the end, this report covers data and information on capacity and production overview, production, market share analysis, sales overview, supply, sales, and shortage, import, export and consumption as well as cost, price, revenue and gross margin of Bionic Devices Market.About usBusinessindustryReports.com is digital database of comprehensive market reports for global industries. 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.Media ContactBusiness Industry ReportsPune Indiasales@businessindustryreports.com+19376349940 mHealth Market 2019: Professional Survey with Current and Future Growth Analysis - Medtronic, Apple, Sanofi, Mobistante, AirStrip Technologies, AliveCor, LifeWatch AG, Koninklijke Philips N.V mHealth Market www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-pdf/749 www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/749 Robust penetration of smartphones in the developed as well as developing countries responsible to boost global mHealth marketAccording to World Health Organization (WHO), 112 member states participated in the module of survey, out of which 83% were reported to possess at least one mHealth initiative in their country. A majority of these member states reported implementation of 4 or more types of mHealth initiatives. As per the mHealthShare factsheet, 62% of smartphone owners in the U.S. have used their phone in 2014 to look up for health condition and information as compared to that of 52% in 2012. The rising interest and extensive use of mobile devices including tablets are widening the scope of global mHealth market.Download The PDF Brochure:mHealth stands for mobile health is the sub segment of eHealth that deals with the medicinal practice in favor of public health care, supported by mobile devices. The term mHealth is used to refer the use of mobile communication devices such as mobile phones, electronic tablets, PDAs and also comprises of wearable devices such as a smart watch for data collection and information about health care services. mHealth is applicable in wide areas, ranging from collection of community and clinical health data and delivery of healthcare information to medical personnel to real time monitoring of the patient by provision of direct care. In developed countries the patients and consumers extensively use mobile gadgets to search for healthcare services and access various kinds of healthcare information. Doctors, physicians and even nurses are found making use of mobile devices to access information about a patient from established databases and other resources. The mHealth market comprises of devices such as ECG monitors, blood glucose meters, multi parameter trackers, sleep apnea trackers, etc.Asia Pacific is expected to show an accelerating global mhealth market mainly due to government initiatives in spreading healthcare awarenessOn the basis of geography, the global mHealth market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa. The mHealth market is spurred in the North America attributing to flourishing number of pilot projects and live health in the U.S. and Canada. The increase in number of wellness apps coupled with rising adoption of smartphones as well as increasing reliability on mobile phone apps for day to day routine is expected to accelerate the regional market in the coming forecast years. Further, rise in the rural population in countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia and India are also diligently involved in expansion of global mHealth market. Certain solutions such as bulk messaging to inform disease spread and awareness tips are commonly used in these countries.Factors responsible to boost the mHealth market involves rising awareness among people regarding regular health updatesThe primary factor responsible to drive the global mHealth market is the affordability and integration of wireless technologies which can cause a breakthrough in monitoring and diagnostics, mainly in the developing countries where smartphones are penetrating the market at a great speed. The rapid rise in the incidence of the chronic diseases as well as the advancing technologies in the mobile health apps that delivers information of personal healthcare on the regular basis are also responsible to fuel mHealth market. For instance, the in- build health app in the Apple phones provides insights about the activity, sleep, nutrition, everyday workout and even maintains reproductive health acting a smart assistant for the mobile phone users. Moreover, the mHealth devices such as glucometers and oximeters are applicable in the geriatric population of monitoring blood glucose levels and oxygen levels mainly in the diabetic population. However, lack of accuracy of these devices could restrain the market growth as many people complain about the extreme results displayed by these devices.The key players involved in improvement of the mHealth devices to increase sales in the global mHealth marketThe key players operating the mHealth market are Medtronic Inc., Apple Inc., Sanofi, Mobistante, Inc., AirStrip Technologies, Inc., AliveCor, Inc., LifeWatch AG, Koninklijke Philips N.V, Jawbone, Nike, Inc., Omron Corporation, Johnson and Johnson, Bio Telemetry Inc., Withings, AgaMatrix Inc., iHealth Lab Inc., Qualcomm, AT&T, Cerner Corporation and Cisco Inc. The mobile service provider companies are focusing to deliver uninterrupted healthcare services in the robust penetration of 3G and 4G networks across the world while several other companies manufacturing healthcare related technological devices are focusing towards providing devices with more precision and accuracy to the users by better optimization and improving the sensitivity of these devices.Request For Sample Copy of This Research Report: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.Shah1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Nuclear Medicine/Radiopharmaceuticals Market Foreseen To Grow Exponentially Over 2026 With Top Players imberly-Clark Corporation, Eli Lilly and Company, Lantheus Medical Imaging Inc., Ampio Pharmaceuticals Inc Radiopharmaceuticals https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/70 https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/70 A radiopharmaceutical preparation is a medicinal product in a ready-to-use format containing a radionuclide suitable for human use. A kit for radiopharmaceutical preparation encloses a vial containing the non-radionuclide components of a radiopharmaceutical preparation in a sterilized and validated form, to which the appropriate radionuclide is added. Radiopharmaceuticals derived from the kits are intended to be used within 12 hours of preparation.Ask For Our Highly Informative Sample Copy of This Business Report @Technetium-99m Widely used Radioisotope in Diagnostic Procedures fueling growth of the radiopharmaceuticals marketThere are over 40 radioisotopes available for use in different therapies. Technetium-99m is the most widely used radioisotope in the diagnostic procedures. Technetium-99m is used as a radioactive tracer, and can be detected in the body by medical equipment (gamma cameras). It is well suited to the role, as it emits readily detectable gamma rays with photon energy of 140 keV. According to International Atomic Energy Agency, over 80% of the total nuclear diagnostic procedures performed worldwide use Technetium-99 as a radiotracer each year and hence, propels the radiopharmaceuticals market growth.Radiopharmaceuticals use in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Application fuels growth of the nuclear medicine marketThe chemical and physical identity is of vital importance, as during administration it targets certain tissues, binding sites, and biochemical pathways. The market is divided into two major areas, namely, diagnostic and therapeutic. Therapeutic applications of radiopharmaceuticals market include cardiology (myocardial perfusion), oncology (tumor imaging and localization), and neurology (cerebral perfusion). Radiopharmaceuticals such as iodine-131 or iodine-125 labeled m-iodobenzyl guanidine (MIGB) are used to treat pheochromocytoma and neuroblastoma. The therapeutic segment nuclear medicine market can be further sub-segmented on the basis of procedure into beta emitters, alpha emitters, and brachytherapy.The diagnostic segment of radiopharmaceuticals market is classified into SPECT and PET. Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) adoption has grown steadily over the last decade and is used in the study of cerebral blood flow imaging. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a functional imaging technique used to observe metabolic processes in the body. System detects pairs of gamma rays emitted by a positron emitting radionuclide. SPECT radioisotopes are used for diagnosis of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and thyroid and neurological disorders.Key players involved in Nuclear Medicine marketThe market is fragmented, with the presence of various major players such as Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Eli Lilly and Company, Lantheus Medical Imaging Inc., Ampio Pharmaceuticals Inc., GE Healthcare, Piramal Imaging, Covidien Plc., Cardinal Health, Iso Tex Diagnostics, Inc., Jubilant DraxImage Inc., Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc., Bracco Diagnostic Inc., Navidea Biopharmaceuticals, Nordion Inc., Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Mallinckrodt Plc., Bio-Nucleonics Inc., and IBA-Molecular.Request customization @Radiopharmaceuticals Used in Hospitals for DiagnosisEnd users of radiopharmaceuticals include hospitals, research institutes, and diagnostic labs. These can be used in hospitals for diagnosis and detection of various diseases such as bone-related pathology, bone pain, stress fracture, bone infections, and spread of cancer in the bone. They are also used in detection and scanning such as in neurology and cardiology.Application of Radiopharmaceuticals across the GlobeRadiopharmaceuticals are widely used in North America, mainly due to availability of advanced healthcare infrastructure, technological advancements, superior medical facilities, and supportive government support. These are also widely used in Europe due to new procedures for diagnosis of diseases and robust medical infrastructure in the region. Radiopharmaceuticals market is projected to witness rampant growth in Asia due to rapid rise in research work in the sector and rising public awareness.ConclusionGrowth of the radiopharmaceuticals market is projected to witness rapid traction in the near future due to its high potential in diagnosis and detection of diseases related to cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Developed regions are expected to be highly lucrative markets for this technology, due to the high capital investment involved and availability of advanced medical facilities in these regions. Major players in the global Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanners market are concentrating on enhancing their global and regional presence through strategic operational expansion and collaborations with regional players.About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Contact Us:Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave,#3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com 2018 Report: Global Online Lending Market Forecast 2023 - Zopa, Daric, Pave, Mintos, Lendix, RateSetter, Canstar https://www.fiormarkets.com/report-detail/355018/request-sample https://www.fiormarkets.com/report/global-online-lending-market-growth-status-and-outlook-355018.html www.fiormarkets.com Fior Markets has added a new market study on Global Online Lending Market Growth (Status and Outlook) 2018-2023, offering an extensive and precise estimates and forecasts study of market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. The report covering details from 2013 to 2018 and forecast to 2023 portrays definition, an investigation of significant improvements in the market, as well as budgetary examination and profound aggressive investigation. In short, this report will help you in setting up new business trends in the market. The Online Lending market is expected to exceed more than US$ xxx million by 2023 at a CAGR of xx% in the given forecast period.About The Industry:The report logically examines raw materials, deals channel, downstream purchasers, and the element of item course of this industry. With this study, you will be able to establish a display of modern advancement and qualities of the market. Valuable information such as facts and figures, skilled opinions are also added in the report. Further, regional classification, along with their growth including segmentation and sub-segmentation are included. The competitive section enfolds key players company profile, product capacity, price, revenue, cost, gross, and contact information as well as their latest updates such as new product development, expansions, and acquisitions and mergers.DOWNLOAD FREE SAMPLE REPORT:Regional Analysis: Geographically, this report is segmented into several key regions, with production, consumption, revenue (M USD), market share and growth rate of Online Lending in these regions, from 2013 to 2023 (forecast), covering Americas (United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil), APAC (China, Japan, Korea, Southeast Asia, India, Australia), Europe (Germany, France, UK, Italy, Russia, Spain), Middle East & Africa (Egypt, South Africa, Israel, Turkey, GCC Countries)Top manufacturers for the market (share, demand, growth, production supply analysis): Zopa, Daric, Pave, Mintos, Lendix, RateSetter, Canstar, Faircent, Upstart, Funding Circle, Prosper, CircleBack Lending, Peerform, Lending ClubResearch Methodology:Primary research was performed by interrogating the key executives from the industry. These discussions help to fill-in the data gaps after secondary research.Secondary sources such as encyclopaedia, website, directories, and databases were used to explore and obtain information useful for this extensive study.Experts from manufacturers and particular suppliers have been interviewed to get and verify critical information as well as to analyze the future forecasts.The report provides an in-depth analysis of the market segmentation, which is a key element of the reports.Market segment by product type, split into On-Premise, Cloud-Based along with their consumption (sales), market share and growth rate.ACCESS FULL REPORT:Market segment by application, split into Individuals, Businesses along with their consumption (sales), market share and growth rate.Moreover, Online Lending industry report study provides an analysis based on opportunities, challenges, and obstacles which enhances the understanding, scope, and application of this report. The complete value chain and downstream and upstream essentials are scrutinized in this report. Essential trends like globalization, growth progress boost fragmentation regulation & ecological concerns.About us -Fior Markets is a leading market intelligence company that sells reports of top publishers in the technology industry.We have a team of experts that compile precise research reports and actively advise top companies to improve their existing processes. Our experts have extensive experience in the topics that they cover.Fior Markets provides you the full spectrum of services related to market research, corroborate with the clients to increase the revenue stream and address process gaps.Contact UsMark StoneSales ManagerOffice-102, Sanskriti AspirationsBaner Road, Pune,MH 411045IndiaPhone: (201) 465-4211Email: sales@fiormarkets.comWeb: Comprehensive analysis on Polio Vaccine Market | Key Players are: Sanofi, GSK, Bibcol, Serum Institute, Tiantan Biological, IMBCA, Panacea Biotec Ltd, Bio-Med, Halfkin Bio-Pharmaceuticals Polio Vaccine Market https://www.marketstudyreport.com/request-a-sample/1584374?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=Abhijeet https://www.marketstudyreport.com/check-for-discount/1584374?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=Abhijeet https://www.marketstudyreport.com/enquiry-before-buying/1584374?utm_source=openpr.com&utm_medium=Abhijeet https://www.marketstudyreport.com https://www.marketstudyreport.com/blog Market Study Report has released a new research study on Polio Vaccine market Analysis 2018-2023 inclusive of one or more factors covering regional opportunities, application landscape, product demand trends, and end-use portfolio of the industry over the forecast timeframe. The report also outlines the competitive framework of the Polio Vaccine industry detailing the SWOT analysis and market share dominance of the prominent players.The worldwide market for Polio Vaccine is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly 5.0% over the next five years, will reach 1630 million US$ in 2024, from 1210 million US$ in 2019, according to a new study.Request a sample of this premium report atMarket Segment by Manufacturers, this report covers Sanofi GSK Bibcol Serum Institute Tiantan Biological IMBCA Panacea Biotec Ltd Bio-Med Halfkin Bio-PharmaceuticalsPolio vaccines are vaccines used to prevent poliomyelitis. There are two types: one that uses inactivated poliovirus and is given by injection, and one that uses weakened poliovirus and is given by mouth.The global average price of Polio Vaccine is in the increasing trend, from 497 /K doses in 2012 to 534 /K doses in 2016. With the situation of global economy and the IPV more and more popular, prices will be in increasing trend in the following five years.The classification of Polio Vaccine includes Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), and the revenue proportion of Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) in 2016 is about 15.4%, and the proportion is in decreasing trend from 2012 to 2016.This report focuses on the Polio Vaccine 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.Request a discount on standard prices of this premium report atMarket 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, coversInactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV)Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV)Market Segment by Applications, can be divided intoPublicPrivateThe content of the study subjects, includes a total of 15 chapters:Chapter 1, to describe Polio Vaccine product scope, market overview, market opportunities, market driving force and market risks.Chapter 2, to profile the top manufacturers of Polio Vaccine, with price, sales, revenue and global market share of Polio Vaccine in 2017 and 2018.Chapter 3, the Polio Vaccine competitive situation, sales, revenue and global market share of top manufacturers are analyzed emphatically by landscape contrast.Chapter 4, the Polio Vaccine breakdown data are shown at the regional level, to show the sales, revenue and growth by regions, from 2014 to 2019.Chapter 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9, to break the sales data at the country level, with sales, revenue and market share for key countries in the world, from 2014 to 2019.Chapter 10 and 11, to segment the sales by type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2014 to 2019.Chapter 12, Polio Vaccine market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2019 to 2024.Chapter 13, 14 and 15, to describe Polio Vaccine sales channel, distributors, customers, research findings and conclusion, appendix and data source.Table of Contents1 Market Overview2 Manufacturers Profiles3 Global Polio Vaccine Sales, Revenue, Market Share and Competition by Manufacturer (2017-2018)4 Global Polio Vaccine Market Analysis by Regions5 North America Polio Vaccine by Country6 Europe Polio Vaccine by Country7 Asia-Pacific Polio Vaccine by Country8 South America Polio Vaccine by Country9 Middle East and Africa Polio Vaccine by Countries10 Global Polio Vaccine Market Segment by Type11 Global Polio Vaccine Market Segment by Application12 Polio Vaccine Market Forecast (2019-2024)13 Sales Channel, Distributors, Traders and Dealers14 Research Findings and Conclusion15 Appendixbuying decision on this premium report:About Us:Marketstudyreport.com allows you to manage and control all corporate research purchases to consolidate billing and vendor management. You can eliminate duplicate purchases and customize your content and license management.Contact Us:Market Study Report LLC4 North Main Street,Selbyville, Delaware 19975USAPhone: 1-302-273-0910US Toll Free: 1-866-764-2150Email: sales@marketstudyreport.comWebsite:Blog: May 6, 2019 What: A public meeting of the Health Care Workforce Committee. When: May 8, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Public testimony will be heard at 12:15-12:30 p.m. Where: Clackamas Community College Wilsonville Training Center, Room 210 , 29353 SW Town Center Loop E, Wilsonville. Attendees can also follow the presentation by webinar and listen to discussion by phone. Register for the webinar at: . Conference line: 877-411-9748, access code 730407. Phone will be muted during public testimony. Agenda: Approval of January meeting summary, OHPB and OHA updates, OHA legislative update, update, discussion and action on Health Care Provider Incentive Fund recommendations, presentation on Health Outcomes and Workforce Trends in Oregon, Discussion on committee charter and workplan for 2019-21, public comment. Agenda, materials and webinar information will be sent to members and posted on the committee's webpage prior to meeting. # # # Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are: Sign language and spoken language interpreters Written materials in other languages Braille Large print Audio and other formats If you need help or have questions, please contact Janet Reves at 503-373-7897, 711 TTY, janet.reves@state.or.us, at least 48 hours before the meeting. Standard Insurance Co. is outsourcing various administrative jobs to a contractor called Genpact, eliminating 40 full-time jobs. The impacted positions generally manage functions that are better provided by specialized vendors, the company said in a written statement. The Standard said it has 3,000 employees, 2,200 of them in Portland. In addition to the 40 layoffs, Genpact will take over work now done for The Standard by up to 50 contract workers. Dan McMillan, The Standards vice president for employee benefits, told employees in a memo that the cuts will take place within a year. He wrote that the company has been working with Genpact since February on a strategy to cut costs and expand the business. This was a hard but necessary decision that will help us remain competitive, McMillan wrote. He said employees will have at least 45-days warning before they lose their jobs, and often will know their layoff is coming months in advance. Laid-off employees will receive competitive severance, he said, and be eligible for other jobs inside the company. Founded in Portland in 1906, The Standard sold to a Japanese company called Meiji Yasuda in 2015 for $5 billion. -- Mike Rogoway | twitter: @rogoway | 503-294-7699 The Portland Bureau of Transportation warned the traveling public in a release on Tuesday to expect road closures and delayed travel from about noon to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8 at the west end of the Hawthorne Bridge for a permitted rally and march by the Oregon Education Association. The rally will start at 11 a.m. at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. A march is planned to start at noon, traveling from the park, west across Southwest Naito Parkway, west on Taylor Street, south on Southwest Third Avenue, east on Columbia Street, then across Naito Parkway again and returning to the park. Oregon educators, public school families, and supporters are calling for the state legislature to invest in students. Read more here: May 8 for Students. Commuters should avoid the area during the permit times if possible. Expect lane and street closures and use alternate routes. Police will be present to help direct traffic. Those attending the march and rally should consider using public transit, biking or walking to the event. Wheatland Ferry on the Willamette River, north of Salem. Oregonian file photo.Oregonian file photo The Wheatland ferry that crosses the Willamette River north of Salem has closed due to rock deposits left behind by high river flows from spring rains. Dredging the river is necessary to remove the rock. On May 7, agencies began the work of removing rock from the path of the ferry. The work is expected to take approximately one week, according to the Marion County website that monitors ferry operations. *** GOOSE HOLLOW 8:17 a.m.: Crash involving a bicyclist at Southwest 17th Avenue and Jefferson Street. *** GATEWAY 8 a.m.: Crash reported on I-205 northbound near the exit to I-84 eastbound. Update 8:38 a.m.: Cleared. *** SOUTHEAST PORTLAND 7:30 a.m.: Injury crash involving a bicyclist reported at Southeast Lexington Street and Cesar Chavez Boulevard. *** The project to repair and replace a number of joins on Interstate 405 continues this week. The Oregon Department of Transportation will close the I-405 northbound ramp to I-5 southbound during the overnight hours through Thursday, May 9. The ramp will be closed from 10 p.m.-5 a.m. nightly. Traffic will be detoured northbound on I-5 to Rosa Parks Way and returned to I-5 southbound at that exit. On the weekend, the ramp will be closed all hours from 8 p.m. Friday, May 10 through 5 a.m. Monday, May 13. The best bet is to avoid I-405 northbound unless you plan to continue north. Those drivers looking to connect with I-84 eastbound or I-5 southbound should use I-405 south to reach their destinations. Check back throughout the morning for the latest commuting updates and follow us on Twitter: @trafficportland U.S. marshals arrested a former Salem police officer who went on the lam while facing burglary, theft and drug possession charges in Oregon. They found Seth Thomas Thayres, 31, in Clearwater, Florida, on Tuesday, said Eric Wahlstrom, a supervisory deputy marshal in Oregon. Hes got ties down there and was a crashing at a bunch of different hotels, Wahlstrom told The Oregonian/OregonLive. We picked him up off the side of the road this afternoon. Thayres is expected to be booked into the Pinellas County Jail and later sent back to Oregon, Wahlstrom said. A patrol officer in Salem, Thayres was on paid administrative leave when Portland police arrested him and James Cardenas, a suspected accomplice, on Feb. 7 in connection with a pair of burglaries that netted more than $30,000 worth of computers and video production equipment. Salem police said Thayres had been placed on leave in October awaiting the outcome of a fitness for duty evaluation when he was arrested, but did not provide additional detail. Authorities charged him with two counts of first-degree theft and one count of unlawful possession of methamphetamine. He resigned from the Salem Police Department, where he had worked since 2014, several days later. In March, prosecutors in Multnomah and Clackamas counties indicted him on an additional 18 criminal counts, including theft and burglary, stemming from other incidents, court records show. Records show he pleaded guilty to two counts of first-degree theft March 26 in Clackamas County but skipped his scheduled arraignment in Multnomah County on April 1 and became a fugitive. Thayres was a police dispatcher in the city of Gulfport, Florida, and later worked as an officer at the University of South Florida until 2014, Wahlstrom said. -- Shane Dixon Kavanaugh; 503-294-7632 Email at skavanaugh@oregonian.com Follow on Twitter @shanedkavanaugh Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Marion County Sheriffs Office has identified the victims and suspects in a shooting late Monday night that killed two people and injured a third in east Salem. Marion County Sheriffs Office deputies responded to reports of a shooting around 10:15 p.m. Monday in the 3600 block of Joshua Avenue NE in Salem. Authorities said Bradley Kelley, 35, was found dead at the scene. Two other victims were taken to a local hospital. Michael Buntjer, 35, died at the hospital and Coral Olfert, 26, had non-life-threatening injuries. All three victims are Salem residents. The two suspects, Keonte Caldwell, 23, and Curtis Welch, 26, were arrested in the Roseburg area and each has been charged with two counts of aggravated murder and one count of attempted aggravated murder. Authorities said the suspects are both residents of the Salem area and knew the victims. Marion County Sheriffs Sgt. Jeremy Landers said the agency wouldnt be releasing more information about the circumstances of the shooting or how the suspects and victims knew each other. He said they dont believe there are any more suspects at large. Jayati Ramakrishnan; 503-221-4320; jramakrishnan@oregonian.com; @JRamakrishnanOR Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Trial exhibit: Witness Eli Fowler took this cellphone video of the blast Washington County Sheriffs Detective Jeremy Chedester and Oregon State Police Trooper Dan Diamond cornered Jason Schaefers white Honda CRV on Northwest 185th Avenue, south of Rock Creek Boulevard. Youre under arrest, theres nowhere to go, Chedester yelled at Schaefer, who was in the far southbound lane, stuck behind other cars at a traffic light on the afternoon of Oct. 11, 2017. Schaefer already had pulled away from the officers once. They had a warrant to arrest him for violating probation after their colleagues on the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force had found an explosive device in his Rock Creek apartment. Diamond had pulled his blue unmarked Ford Taurus next to the drivers side of Schaefers SUV. Chedester stopped his black unmarked Ford Taurus just behind Schaefer and jumped out, and walked around to the front of Diamonds car. Schaefer suddenly ducked down in the front seat of his SUV, Chedester recalled. I thought he was going to come up with a gun or a bomb, Chedester told jurors Tuesday, the second day of Schaefers federal trial on multiple felony charges including two counts of assaulting a federal officer. He came up with a pack of cigarettes and a lighter. I thought it was really odd. Chedester wondered if Schaefer just wanted to have one last smoke before his arrest. The detective said he was on alert for any suspicious wiring, switches or a remote detonator. Ill do it. Ill do it, Schaefer told officers, according to Chedester. Ill blow us all up. Chedester moved around Diamonds car to the rear passenger side, and then walked closer, in between Diamonds Taurus and Schaefers Honda, to try to get a better look inside of Schaefers SUV to see if there was anything that appeared dangerous. I could see the pack of cigarettes was in his left hand, the lighter in his right hand, Chedester recalled. He wondered if he should grab Schaefers hands and pull him out of the Honda. Then Chedester noticed the Camel cigarette pack was partially open but no cigarettes were sticking out of it. The box looked like it was bulging. Chedester said he could see a white powdery substance and white tissue paper inside the cigarette box. Chedester looked back over to Diamond, and remembered thinking, We got to get out of here. It looks bad. I thought we need to back up and get out of here or shoot Mr. Schaefer, recalled Chedester, who was about 3 feet from Schaefer and his front drivers door, its window down. Suddenly, Schaefer yelled to the officers with an intense urgency, Im going to (expletive) blow us up right now! Chedester saw Schaefer move the lighter toward the cigarette pack and heard a blast. "I remember being very afraid at that point that I was going to die,'' he said. He saw an initial flash and then just white smoke and debris everywhere. He felt the explosion. It kind of pushed me back, he said, adding, as if my face was getting ripped off. Stunned, Chedester swiped his hand down his body, checking to see if he was harmed or bleeding. He said it felt like he stood stationary for a long time, not knowing if he was OK, but was trying to tell himself to move. He did move behind Diamonds car and then to its front, leaving his handheld radio on the roof of Diamonds car. Diamond reached into his drivers side door to call for help. Roll Medical, Code 3, a blast just went off in the vehicle, Diamond radioed to dispatch. Chedester kept his gun drawn on Schaefer. He saw Schaefer reach down again in his vehicle. Chedester said he looked down the front sight of his handgun, aiming at Schaefers chest. If Schaefer came up with a gun or another explosive device, Chedester was thinking, hed have to fire. Instead, he saw Schaefers hands bloodied, flopping, just kind of hanging. He says, Whyd you shoot me?...You shot me. You shot me.' I didnt shoot you, Chedester yelled back. You blew yourself up. You need to shut the (expletive) up. You need to listen. Get your hands up! Chedester ordered. Chedester said anger welled up inside him, disgusted that Schaefer would suggest he was fired upon, because he tried to blow me up with him. Within seconds, though, Chedester was second-guessed himself, wondering if he had fired his gun. He hadnt, finding it fully loaded, one round in the chamber, 14 in the magazine. Chedester and Diamond backed their vehicles away from Schaefers Honda. If theres one device, theres usually a second one, Chedester said, sharing his training with jurors. Others responded, including lead investigator FBI agent Wade Mutchler. Mutchler ordered Schaefer to get out of his vehicle. He eventually did and lay on his back on the street beside his drivers door. Chedester, 44, said he felt dazed, disoriented, like hed been hit in the head. He dug out a piece of flesh from his eye and found another chunk of flesh in his mouth. Someone walked him back to the Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue station less than a block away. He was told to remove all his gear and noticed splatters of liquid or white material on his clothes and vest. Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue paramedic and firefighter Matthew Cox said it looked like paper confetti was all over Chedesters clothes. Chedester reported ringing in his ears and vertigo initially. Chedester, a Washington County detective who has spent just over 12 years with the sheriffs office and has been assigned to the FBI-led Joint Terrorism Task Force the past three years, was treated at a local emergency room for a concussion from the blast. He remained off duty on paid leave for about one week and a half. When he tried to run about two weeks later, he said he got winded, light-headed and felt like he was going to faint. That lasted several months, he said. During cross-examination, Schaefer, who is representing himself at trial, elicited testimony that Chedester walked up to the drivers side of his car and wasnt wearing a helmet, long sleeves or any other protective gear, despite concerns that Schaefer might have explosives or a remote detonator for an improvised explosive device found at his Rock Creek apartment. Chedester said he was wearing a ballistic vest and a load-bearing vest holding a Taser, flashlight and other police equipment. We had planned to have some distance, but in this situation we werent positive, what Schaefer was going to do before he ignited the explosive. The cigarette pack was filled with the explosive triacetone triperoxide, or TATP.'' The remnants of a green lighter was found in Schaefers Honda later. The explosion tore off two fingers on Schaefers left hand. Schaefer, 27, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assaulting a federal officer, using a destructive device, using an explosive to commit a federal felony, carrying an explosive during the commission of a federal felony, unlawful transportation of explosive materials, possessing an unregistered destructive device and being a felon in possession of explosives. His trial is expected to last two weeks. -- Maxine Bernstein Email at mbernstein@oregonian.com Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. The M-44, a spring-loaded device filled with cyanide used to kill predators, is no longer welcome in Oregon. On Monday, Gov. Kate Brown signed a law banning the devices, called cyanide bombs by some of their detractors, chief among them Brooks Fahy of Eugene, executive director of Predator Defense. "This is a vital public safety issue that has been addressed," Fahy said in a statement. "M-44s are planted like land mines around Oregon and other states. M-44s are small traps consisting of a stake, which is driven into the ground, a spring and a canister loaded with the powdered poison. Once they're set, the traps resemble sprinkler heads. When triggered, the M-44 ejects a cloud of cyanide meant to kill coyotes, wild dogs or foxes. The problem, Fahy says, is the indiscriminate nature of the devices. That fact was laid bare in March 2017 when an Idaho boy, Canyon Mansfield, and his dog Kasey went on their daily walk up the hill behind their Pocatello home. The pair happened upon an M-44 and in a flash of yellow powder, Kasey was killed and Mansfield was injured. Around the same time Mansfield was injured, a protected wolf in northeast Oregon was killed by an M-44. Fahy said that thousands of other animals, both wild and domestic, have been killed by the devices. The ban, Senate Bill 580, bans all sodium cyanide-dispersing devices used for predator control in Oregon. It passed both the House and Senate by wide margins and was signed into law on Monday. Earlier this year, the Environmental Protection Agency took comments on a proposal to renew registration for sodium cyanide use in M-44s. Of the more than 22,000 comments submitted, only 10 supported continued use of the chemical in the devices, according to an analysis by the Center for Biological Diversity. For Fahy, though, the new law is not an ending point of his 35-year effort to outlaw the M-44, but the beginning of a push to get the devices banned nationwide. Last week, Oregon Rep. Peter DeFazio, a Democrat, joined with Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz in introducing Canyons Law, so named for the Idaho boy who fell victim to an M-44. The law would prohibit use of the devices across the country. Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley introduced a companion bill in the Senate. "Cyanide bombs have no place on public land, Gaetz said in a statement. These dangerous devices threaten animals and humans alike. Better and more humane predator-control tools and techniques already exist. -- Kale Williams kwilliams@oregonian.com 503-294-4048 @sfkale Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A Hood-To-Coast runner whose leg was badly injured when a fellow runner got drunk, stole a truck and ran over her in a designated sleeping area is suing race organizers and the fellow runner for nearly $1 million. Cynthia Gillespie claims organizers of the popular Oregon relay race were negligent in designating a patch of ground in a Columbia County field as the sleeping area when it wasnt safe. The sleeping area was marked off by caution tape and bordered by some parked cars, the suit says. The suit also says organizers failed to enforce a ban on alcohol and should have known that runners such as David Jon Blackmon were drinking. At 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. on Aug. 26, 2017, Blackmon took the portable toilet truck on a joyride by driving it toward four runners who were resting in the designated area in sleeping bags at Exchange 24 of the 198-mile race. As the trucks headlights neared and people began to scream, three of the four runners were able to dive out of the path of the truck, authorities said. Blackmon, however, struck Gillespie and dragged her for a considerable distance before pinning her leg under the trucks wheel and coming to a stop, according to the lawsuit and the Columbia County Sheriffs Office. Blackmon then ran into some nearby woods, but a police dog later found him, the Sheriffs Office said. Gillespie suffered muscle tears, bruises, back pain, cervical pain, headaches and permanent disfigurement to her leg, according to the suit. In February, Blackmon was sentenced to 60 days in jail, with a provision allowing him to be released to go to work as a mortgage broker while serving his sentence. His drivers license also was suspended for five years after he pleaded guilty to driving under the influence of intoxicants, reckless endangerment and fourth-degree assault. The suit faults Blackmon for driving over Gillespie. The suit also lists Honey Bucket as a defendant, and faults the company for allegedly leaving the truck unattended, unlocked and running while its driver serviced some portable toilets. Blackmon and Honey Bucket didnt immediately return a request for comment Tuesday. Dan Floyd, a spokesman for Hood to Coast, declined comment because of the active litigation. At the time of Hood to Coast 2017, Blackmon was under orders to refrain from drinking alcohol because hed been charged with a DUII in Deschutes County the previous month. Blackmon, who lived in Bend at the time, later pleaded no contest and was allowed to enter a diversion program. Blackmon, 38, has since moved to Portland. Hood to Coast organizers said Gillespies team later was able to cross the finish line at Seaside in an emotional move. The race banned Blackmon from participating in the relay again. A Hood To Coast Facebook post honored the team whose members were hurt by a pickup truck that was driven across a field by David Jon Blackmon on Aug. 26, 2017. Portland attorney Chris Mascal is representing Gillespie. The lawsuit was filed Monday in Columbia County Circuit Court. -- Aimee Green agreen@oregonian.com o_aimee Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Federal immigration officials made a point of announcing Tuesday that they had tracked down a convicted dog rapist at his home earlier that day after Multnomah County jailers released him last month without alerting them as requested. It was the latest volley in a yearslong fight between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Multnomah County Sheriffs Office. ICE wants the county to let it know when undocumented immigrants are scheduled to leave jail -- or as an alternative, hold the inmates for up to 48 hours. The county says it cant do that. In this case, ICE spokeswoman Tanya Roman said 52-year-old Fidel Lopez is an illegally present Mexican citizen and the agency plans to transport him to the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma for an immigration hearing now that hes in federal custody. Lopez, whose last listed address was in Southeast Portland, was convicted of sexually assaulting his fiancees Lhasa Apso mix. Lopez admitted to having sexual intercourse with the animal, according to court papers. The animal had to be euthanized. News of Lopezs crime drew public outrage. He was sentenced to three years of probation and 60 days in jail on April 8, but was let out of jail immediately because he had already served the time leading up to his sentencing hearing. County leaders have repeatedly said they cant legally detain inmates under state and federal law when immigration officials send only a written administrative detainer asking that an inmate be held for up to 48 hours. Sheriff Mike Reese has said the jail must receive a criminal arrest warrant signed by a federal judge and that the jail wont share information with federal immigration authorities. Federal officials have said county leaders have taken a philosophical, not a legal, stance. In a written statement, Roman said, ICE maintains that cooperation by local law enforcement is an indispensable component of promoting public safety." Its unfortunate," the statement said, "that current local and state laws and policies tie the hands of local law enforcement agencies that want and need to work with ICE to promote public safety by holding criminals accountable and providing justice and closure for their victims. Sanctuary policies not only provide a refuge for illegal aliens, but they also shield criminal aliens who prey on people in their own and other communities. Immigration officials rarely notify media about undocumented immigrants released from Multnomah Countys jail system against the federal agencys wishes. Last fall, they also announced that the Multnomah County jail had released 46-year-old Martin Gallo-Gallardo months earlier despite a request ICE says it sent the jail to notify them. After his release, Gallo-Gallardo, whom ICE says entered the U.S. illegally, was arrested on accusations of killing his wife and dumping her body in a ditch near Sandy, authorities say. -- Aimee Green agreen@oregonian.com o_aimee Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. By Paul Waldman Many Democratic voters are agonizing over whether they should support their favorite candidate or the one who is most likely to defeat President Donald Trump next fall. The problem is that the electability debate often proves hopelessly flawed, and for a time that looked to be happening again. But that may be changing. The discussion around electability may be expanding beyond its usual narrow borders, in ways that could bring it in closer alignment with reality. Let's give credit to Sen. Kamala Harris for challenging the conventional wisdom on this topic. This is what she said in a Sunday speech: "There has been a lot of conversation by pundits about 'electability' and 'who can speak to the Midwest?' But when they say that, they usually put the Midwest in a simplistic box and a narrow narrative, and too often their definition of the Midwest leaves people out. It leaves out people in this room who helped build cities like Detroit. It leaves out working women who are on their feet all day-many of them working without equal pay. And the conversation too often suggests certain voters will only vote for certain candidates regardless of whether their ideas will lift up all our families. It's shortsighted. It's wrong. And voters deserve better." In other words, whenever we talk about electability there's an assumption - often stated quite explicitly - that to be electable means to be able to appeal to whites -- particularly white men. When Harris pleads to consider African-American voters as part of that conversation, she has a strong case to make. Turnout among African-Americans dropped precipitously from 2012 to 2016; had Hillary Clinton duplicated Barack Obama's ability to get them to the polls, she'd be president. The point isn't that boosting African-American turnout offers the only path to success, but that it's one of many factors to consider, instead of talking as though the only voter who matters to an electability discussion is a 60-year-old white guy sitting in a diner in Sheboygan. The other big question in this debate is gender. Large numbers of Democrats, justifiably traumatized by 2016, have decided that despite all the formidable women running, the only way to beat Trump is with a man. Many voters arriving at that conclusion are women. There are a couple of ways you can look at that sentiment, both pretty depressing. The first is that these women are making a coldly rational decision. After 2016 they realized that misogyny is such a powerful force in our politics that it simply cannot be overcome, at least not for the moment. When a politician can be accused of sexual misconduct by a dozen women, get caught on tape bragging about committing sexual assault, and still get elected, it's not something you can wish away. The second way to look at this is that many Democratic voters have concluded that only someone with a profile like Joe Biden's can win because they keep getting told over and over that being white, male, and a policy centrist is what it means to be electable. After having this message beaten into them by a thousand pundits and journalists, eventually they succumbed. History tells us that our assessments of who is electable usually turn out to be wrong. Trump and Barack Obama looked completely unelectable at the outset of their campaigns, while supposedly electable candidates like Hillary Clinton, Mitt Romney, John McCain, and John Kerry ended up losing. The right conclusion to draw from that history isn't that it's completely futile to even consider electability, but that we've been using the wrong criteria to assess it. The discussion is filled with propositions that sound reasonable but utterly fail in practice, like the idea that centrists must be more electable or that candidates who produce too much enthusiasm from their party's base are suspect. The biggest problem, however, may be that we trap ourselves into considering what type of candidate seems electable, then match that up to the available options. But we don't elect types; we elect individuals. Let's take one example. We'd all agree that we don't want our party to nominate someone who might get caught in too many controversies or outright scandals. But nearly every candidate will face at least a potential scandal at some point. The real question is how resilient they'll turn out to be, how skillful they are at dealing with the crisis. Bill Clinton was a ticking time bomb of scandals, but he also had the ability to overcome them. When Republicans tried to turn his pastor into a scandal and activate racist fears, Obama defused the issue with a thoughtful and empathetic speech on race. Hillary Clinton couldn't overcome the absurdly overblown issue of whether she used the wrong email. You don't have to think that was entirely (or even mostly) her fault to acknowledge that getting past controversies was not Clinton's strong suit as a candidate. The point is that the scandal factor isn't about what's in the candidate's record as much as it is about their ability to deal with it in the context of the campaign. To bring it into the present, Biden has lots of potentially controversial things in his past that could be problematic; his handsiness with women and his performance during the 1991 Clarence Thomas confirmation hearings have already come up. How much confidence do you have in him based on how he dealt with those controversies? How would that compare with how you think other candidates will deal with their next mini-scandal? It's hard to know for sure, of course. But at the very least, we need evidence for any electability claim, as Bill Scher argues. If a candidate says she can increase turnout among Latinos, we should ask how she plans to do so, and see if the answer sounds plausible. If a candidate says he'll win over Trump voters, we should demand proof that goes farther than his race and gender, or his birth in a sufficiently hardscrabble town. Most importantly, if were going to talk about electability then we have to keep the discussion as wide and inclusive as possible. Then wed at least stand a chance of getting it right. Subscribe to get the Morning Briefing newsletter delivered to your email inbox weekdays at 7 a.m. Todays stories WATER DAMAGE: A city water main failed and flooded Portland homes. But now City Hall wont pay for the damage. Read more. RUNNER INJURED: A Hood to Coast runner sues for $1 million after a drunken participant steals a Honey Bucket truck and plows into sleeping area, injuring her. Read more. TEACHER WALKOUT: Heres what you need to know about todays teacher walkout. Read more. STREET RACING: Three are arrested for allegedly street-racing on Interstate 84 in Northeast Portland. Read more. MAY DAY: Four new defendants are named in a $1 million lawsuit filed against Joey Gibson after a May Day clash. Read more. EDUCATION FUNDING: Oregon Senate Republicans hide out, delaying a vote on education funding. Read more. $4.5 MILLION GIFT: The Oregon Shakespeare Festival receives a $4.5 million gift. Read more. GRILL TIME: Ramp up your grilling side dish game with these eight recipes from new barbecue books. Read more. BRUT IPA: Mikkeller partners with Gigantic Brewing for a Portland collaboration: a brut IPA. Read more. JAMES BEARD: Portland chefs come home empty-handed from the 2019 James Beard Awards. Read more. MAX STOP: The Skidmore Fountain MAX station is particularly important, Multnomah County Commissioners say. Read more. WILDLIFE PANEL: A controversial nominee to the Oregon state wildlife commission is rejected by the Senate. Read more. OREGON CYCLISTS: Bike lanes exist in an intersection, Oregon lawmakers affirm. Read more. DINNER SERIES: Check out the impressive lineup for Kachkas new dinner series. Read more. PORTLAND DEVELOPMENT: Live Nation is in talks with the Zidell family for an outdoor amphitheater on South Waterfront land. Read more. More news Washington County detective recounts blast, how he was afraid he 'was going to die' Backers of pension ballot initiative plan to contest states draft language Dear Abby: Mom, grandma howling over sons new girlfriends refusal to share beloved dog Ask Amy: Weed and ramen do seem a somewhat magical fit Carolyn Hax: Boyfriends belittling is just tip of iceberg for this loser Married 32 years but weve never made a great pair and Im miserable: Dear Annie Find more at oregonlive.com Todays comics Click here to see today's comics Todays obituaries Click here to find area deaths reported recently Today in history AROUND THE WORLD: On May 8, 1996, South Africa took another step from apartheid to democracy by adopting a constitution that guaranteed equal rights for blacks and whites. A former Oregon State Police trooper was killed in a weekend farm accident east of Albany, according to a report. The Albany Democrat-Herald reports Kirk Burkholder, 38, was found trapped in a forklift mast. He had been unloading a 2,000-pound bag of sheep feed into a hopper at the time of the Saturday evening accident, according to the newspaper. Authorities responded, and Burkholder died at the farm. The Democrat-Herald reports Burkholder was a lifelong Albany resident who worked for the Oregon State Police as a senior trooper in the Fish and Wildlife Division for nearly a decade. He left the agency to return to his family farm after cancer left his father, who has since died, unable to work, his brother told the newspaper. Burkholder was a married father of three, the newspaper reports. His children are 7, 5 and 3 years old. -- Jim Ryan; jryan@oregonian.com; 503-221-8005; @Jimryan015 Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A 44-year-old man accused of shooting a Gresham police officer with a pellet gun last month is now suspected of also hitting an 11-year-old boy the day before, lodging a pellet in one of the childs kidneys. Michael L. Hart was indicted Monday on charges of second-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon, assaulting a public safety officer and being a felon in possession of a firearm. He remains held Tuesday in the Multnomah County Detention Center. Elijah Burnett, the 11 year old, was hit in the back with a pellet on April 24 while climbing a tree with his younger brother at an apartment complex in the 800 block of Southeast 187th Avenue, a probable cause affidavit said. It was determined after he was taken to a hospital that the pellet went through his skin and muscle tissue. Officer Cameron Katzenmeyer was standing outside his patrol car during an unrelated traffic stop a little before midnight on April 25 when he was hit in his elbow by a pellet, the affidavit said. It tore a hole in his uniform and was stuck several inches into his arm on a nerve, according to the court documents. Authorities say a man used this pellet air rifle to shoot an 11-year-old boy and a Gresham police officer in late April. (Gresham Police Department) Police searched the area for the shooter after Katzenmeyer was hit, found a trailer parked near the apartments and determined it was likely the direction where the projectile came from, according to the affidavit. Katzenmeyer and Burnett were hit in locations about seven yards apart. According to the court papers, police found Hart in the trailer. He refused to answer officers questions and was detained. Police obtained a search warrant to go into the trailer. They found a black powder gun and a pellet air rifle inside that was one pellet missing from being fully loaded. A bedroom window faced the direction of the traffic stop and the tree Burnett climbed. The window also had a screen with small holes in it. Hart told officers that his possession of a pellet gun and two people being hit by pellets in the area was a coincidence, the court papers said. -- Everton Bailey Jr. ebailey@oregonian.com | 503-221-8343 |@EvertonBailey Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. Backers of a proposed measure looking to prohibit new public pension debt in Oregon say ballot language crafted by the Department of Justice is overly complicated and misleading, and they plan to contest it to the Supreme Court if necessary. The justice department is responsible for drafting ballot measure titles and explaining their effects to voters in a neutral fashion. Backers of Initiative Petition 13 filed their paperwork with the Secretary of States office in October, and justice officials issued proposed language Tuesday. Backers, who include former Republican legislators Julie Parrish and Mark Johnson, say their initiative is very straightforward. They say it aims to create a constitutional prohibition against public employers accruing new pension debt, or additional unfunded actuarial liabilities, after 2022. Bottom line, they say the measure would effectively require government employers to fund their pension systems in real time. That would mean either adjusting their contributions to immediately make up for any shortfall in annual investment returns, or making modifications to the system so new unfunded liabilities would not be incurred, such as converting to a defined contribution system similar to a 401(k). The ballot measure would also prevent employers from borrowing money to offset their pension payments, as public employers have in the past by issuing pension obligation bonds. The justice departments draft ballot measure language focused exclusively on the state Public Employee Retirement System, ignoring other public pension systems that the proposed bill aims to cover. The wording also said several times that the effect of the measure was unclear. We turned in very simple ballot title language to address pension debt, and instead got back a dissertation about PERS, which is not what the major effect of the ballot title would do, Parrish said. Backers plan to contest the title through the public comment period, which runs for 10 business days, then bring it to the state Supreme Court if necessary. Once final ballot language is approved, they have until July of 2020 to gather 149,360 signatures to certify it for the November 2020 ballot. Parrish said there are clear conflicts of interests in having PERS recipients at the justice department drafting the ballot title, effects and summary -- similar to having lawmakers as PERS beneficiaries. Many times, its difficult to make decisions that go against ones personal financial interest, even subconsciously, she said. Were confident however that through the ballot title comments process well get the language more neutrally in line with the plain text of the actual measure. SALEM An Oregon foster child was among more than 20 teenagers injured during a riot last week at the Red Rock Canyon School in St. George, Utah. But that wasnt the first problem experienced by Oregon children at the facility. Another Oregon foster child sent to Red Rock was physically assaulted by program staff, a state child welfare official and state senator said on Tuesday. It was two separate days, with two separate staff that assaulted him, Sen. Sara Gelser said of the Oregon teen who was hurt by Red Rock staff in separate incidents. Sara Fox, manager of the states child welfares treatment program, told lawmakers in a hearing Tuesday that the psychiatric residential treatment center operated by the for-profit company Sequel Youth and Family Services immediately fired the two employees who used improper restraint on the teen. Police in Utah are now investigating the incidents, Fox said. The Oregon child was treated by a nurse and had a red mark on his back and a small bruise on his chin as a result of the incidents, Fox said. Fox and Gelser described the incidents during an update by child welfare officials to lawmakers regarding on the safety of Oregon foster children placed in out-of-state care and treatment programs. Gelser and other lawmakers have raised concerns since OPB reported that the states child welfare program has increasingly relied on out-of-state programs to care for foster children. At the end of last month, roughly 80 Oregon foster children were in such programs across the nation, according to the state. The riot at Red Rock Canyon School occurred just as a nine-person state team was preparing to visit facilities in Utah last week, including three other Sequel Youth and Family Services programs, Fox told lawmakers on Tuesday. The team decided to spend a couple days longer at Red Rock to make sure the facility had a plan to prevent future problems and help children traumatized by the riot. Local law enforcement sent a SWAT team to the facility during the riot, incorrectly believing an active shooter was involved, Fox said. The Oregon team interviewed nearly all of the 25 Oregon children at Red Rock and didnt have concerns around their safety at the time we visited last week, Fox said. State employees will return to the facility this week and next week to make sure Sequel is implementing an improvement plan. And, a couple of children are being moved to other programs. Gelser told state child welfare officials she hopes Oregon can stop sending foster children to out-of-state programs and instead spend money investing in caring for them closer to home. Fox and Lilia Teninty, director of the state Office of Developmental Disability Services, said they share that goal but the state continues to struggle with a shortage of treatment programs for children with behavioral challenges and homes for children with disabilities. Gelser said state lawmakers have a responsibility to approve more money for in-state programs. I just dont know how we get there if we dont get to the funding piece, Gelser said. Investing in people is important. She also thanked Fox, Teninty and a childrens facility licensing official for their repeated appearances to answer lawmakers questions. Please know your hard work is seen, Gelser said, and I appreciate your willingness to keep coming back and answer these hard questions. Hillary Borrud | hborrud@oregonian.com | 503-294-4034 | @hborrud Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. SALEM Oregon Senate Republicans whove fled the state Capitol have made it clear they object to Democrats multibillion-dollar business tax plan to fund education. They are pushing Democrats to send the plan, which already passed the House last week, back to committee for unspecified changes that could delay it indefinitely. But the caucus also has a long list of demands it delivered to Senate Democrats, first on Tuesday and then a modified version on Wednesday morning, according to a document reviewed by The Oregonian/OregonLive. Republicans have denied Democrats the quorum of 20 members necessary to conduct business two days in a row this week, starting on Tuesday when the tax plan was first scheduled for a floor vote. Its one of the only tactics Republicans can use to block legislation they dislike, given Democrats hold three-fifths supermajorities necessary to raise taxes in both chambers of the Legislature. Senate Republican Leader Herman Baertschiger, Jr. said in a press release Tuesday that his caucus has been in talks with Democrats and Republicans and will continue the walkout until more progress has been made." Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem, said during a briefing with reporters Wednesday afternoon that he does "not see that (education funding) bill going back to committee ... It is perhaps the most significant thing weve done for K-12 and early learning since Ive ever been in the legislature. Courtney did not rule out negotiating with Republicans regarding their other demands and he did not answer a reporters question about whether engaging with Republicans who refuse to attend floor sessions might encourage lawmakers to rely more on the tactic in the future. Oregon lawmakers rarely use the strategy, although Democrats in the House employed it in 2001 during a disagreement over a redistricting proposal. In an interview Wednesday afternoon, Baertschiger said Republicans want to ask voters to approve an amendment to the state Constitution that would ensure the new tax money could only be spent on education. Baertschiger said he also wants other technical changes to the tax plan that he would not specify. "The walkout has a lot more things going than just that, he said. In addition to sending House Bill 3427 back to committee, Republicans are insisting that Democrats kill some of the highest profile bills the Legislature is considering this session. On Tuesday, the list of bills Republicans wanted to thwart included the following, according to a copy of the list reviewed by The Oregonian/OregonLive: Republicans also listed two bills they want Democrats to ensure will pass: Senate Bill 1008, which would end the automatic referral of juveniles facing Measure 11 charges to adult court, and House Bill 2005, a family and medical paid leave plan. On the family and medical leave plan, Republicans included the proviso that it be shaped to meet their approval. The criminal justice reform bill has the support of Jackie Winters, a Salem Republican who is the former caucus leader. In exchange, Republicans offered to return to the Capitol so that Senate Democrats have a quorum and can resume the business of passing bills. They also offered to provide five votes to pass a fix lawmakers are working on for the states underfunded public pension system, known as PERS. The Oregonian/OregonLive has reported the changes Democratic leaders are considering could actually make the problem worse, including by lengthening the payback period for the systems deficit. Republicans offer to provide votes for the pension plan suggests Democrats might lack support within their own caucus to pass even technical changes. Courtney characterized Democrats pension plan differently, telling reporters that it is a full faith attempt to deal with that monster. On Wednesday morning, Senate Republicans shortened their list of bills that must be killed to the diesel, greenhouse gas cap and gun control proposals. They continued to insist on the passage of the criminal justice reform and family and medical leave plans and sending the tax plan back to committee, in exchange for returning to the Capitol and providing five votes to support public pension changes. Concerning the diesel bill, the trucking industry has fiercely and successfully opposed tightening regulations on cancer-causing pollution from diesel engines for years, as The Oregonian/OregonLive has reported. Political candidates from both parties accepted similar amounts of money from the Oregon Truck political action committee last year, including Democratic leaders in both chambers and Gov. Kate Brown. However, many senators refrain from accepting campaign contributions during the legislative session and the House has a rule against it. Senate Republicans political action committee, The Leadership Fund, has continued fundraising and received $200 from Creed V. Brattain, the CEO of the truck dealership company Brattain International Trucks, Inc. Baertschiger said the Senate Republican political action committee uses a digital fundraising system that is not targeting lobbyists but is always going on. "I wouldnt try to connect the dots and say its to do something, Baertschiger said of Brattains contribution. Its just people that support us. Hillary Borrud | hborrud@oregonian.com | 503-294-4034 | @hborrud Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. SALEM For the second day in a row, most Republicans in the Oregon Senate did not show up for a scheduled floor session on Wednesday. The action means that Democrats, who hold the majority in the chamber, cannot proceed with legislative business. At least two Republicans need to be on the floor in order for a quorum to be present. On Tuesday, none appeared for the scheduled floor session. On Wednesday, the only Republican to show up was Sen. Tim Knopp, R-Bend. For the second day in a row, the Senates Sergeant At Arms was dispatched to locate the missing lawmakers. After a thorough search, we didnt find anybody, said Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem, on Wednesday morning, before gaveling the session into recess until 2:30 p.m. Democrats were once again short of a quorum in the afternoon, with Knopp the only Republican in attendance. The ongoing political dust-up is over House Bill 3427, which would raise billions of dollars in new taxes to boost spending on public schools and early childhood education. Although some Republicans have said thats a worthy goal, they object to getting the money by raising business taxes. Some are also insisting that Democrats agree to enshrine a mandate in Oregons Constitution that the money can only be spent on education, but that would require sending the question to voters which would delay funding for schools and other educational programs. Republicans have also demanded legislative action to reduce public pension costs. Senate GOP leader Sen. Herman Baertschiger, R-Grants Pass, said on Monday that his caucus would not come to the floor without seeing substantive progress on a pension bill. He also wants the tax bill to be sent back to committee for more input from the business community. The Senate Republicans will continue the walkout until more progress has been made in ongoing conversations with leadership, said Baertschiger on Wednesday. In a briefing with reporters Wednesday afternoon, Courtney said its up to Gov. Kate Brown to decide whether to send the Oregon State Police out to round up absent Republican senators. However, Courtney said he does not want that to happen and is already worried the situation has wounded relationships in the Senate. "Thats easy to talk about, Courtney said. "It is very sad if that ever has to happen. Courtney described his preferred approach to the impasse, which was more reminiscent of a rhythm and blues serenade. "I think in terms of I need you, I want you, lets get in this together in some way, Courtney said of his approach to Republicans. Baertschiger said he was not worried that Democrats would send state troopers looking for Republican senators, and the caucus is so dispersed at this point that it would take longer than 24 hours for them to even return to the Capitol voluntarily. "Whatever. I dont care, Baertschiger said of the troopers. "Send them. They gotta find us. Chris Lehman Hillary Borrud | hborrud@oregonian.com | 503-294-4034 | @hborrud Visit subscription.oregonlive.com/newsletters to get Oregonian/OregonLive journalism delivered to your email inbox. A variety of chefs from the Great Lakes Bay Region will come together to create a memorable evening for a worthy cause during Chefs for Shelterhouse. At the event, guests will have the opportunity to visit stations where chefs will highlight their specialties. Participating chefs include: Black Creek Kitchen, Cheeky Cheesecake, Good to Go, The Gourmet Cupcake Shoppe, Grand Traverse Pie Company, Grape Beginnings Winery, The Great Hall Banquet & Convention Center, Great Lakes Ice Cream, Green Gourmet Cafe, Grove Tea Lounge, The H Hotel, Harvest, Holiday Inn, HORIZONS, Lalonde's Market, Live Oak Coffeehouse, Luxe Chocolates, Menu Manager, Midland Country Club, Pop-Pop's Gourmet Popcorn, Riverwalk Grill, Timbers Bar & Grill, Whine, and Windover High School Culinary Students. Lions Clubs International recently honored seventh-grader Harley Lattimer of Coleman for winning local and district contests of its annual Peace Poster contest. The contest was for students ages 11 to 13. The theme was "Kindness Matters." The district contest involved competition from 43 clubs. Lattimer was honored with a $100 check. Harley Lattimer, her parents Mike and Mandy Lattimer and her art teacher, Lane Dexter, were invited to the District 11E1 convention luncheon in West Branch where the student was honored in front of about 70 Lions Club members. The winner thanked the Lions and explained her poster drawing and how it fit the kindness theme. Since 2015, more than 20 Center City properties in Midland have benefited from the Facade Improvement Plan, which was originally funded in 2014 by a $150,000 grant from the Midland Area Community Foundation. Together, those Center City properties have resulted in $500,000 worth of improvements added to the district, according to Community Affairs Director Selina Tisdale. However, Tisdale said the program has been so popular that the original funding for it has been exhausted. To replenish the funding, the Midland Area Community Foundation donated a $100,000 matching grant with the matching portion coming from the $1 million-dollar economic development grant gifted to the Center City district by Dow in the fall of 2017. As of May 1, only $106,000 of the $1 million Dow grant has been used. So, on Monday night Midland City Council approved the Center City Authority budget to reflect the additional $200,000 to go toward the FIP. "We've kind of pulled back our promotion of the program knowing our funding was going to be running short and we weren't quite sure how it was going to be refilled," Tisdale said at the meeting. "Once we started the conversation with the Community Foundation after the first of the year and knew we were on track with this, now we will begin to ramp up advertisements of this again." The way the Center City FIP works, is it provides up to $5,000 in matching grants and up to $10,000 in matching interest-free loans to eligible Center City property owners. Property owners who take advantage of these incentives must then contribute $15,000 of their own money toward improvement projects. The funds can be used for landscaping, exterior lighting, facade improvements, street access improvements, signage updates and site accessories, such as benches, railings and retaining walls. However, only properties within the district can take advantage of the program. Midland's Center City commercial district is the area bounded roughly by Saginaw Road, starting north of Ashman Circle at Manor Drive and continuing south through the Circle district to Patrick Road. The area also includes Washington Avenue from Cambridge south to Patrick. The area encompasses 200 parcels, 142.8 acres and more than 225 businesses. Anyone who is unsure whether their property qualifies can contact Tisdale at 989-837-3304 or visit midlandcentercity.org. Some of the businesses that have already benefited from the FIP include Domino's Pizza, Midland Towne Center, Village Green, Ya Ya's Flame Broiled Chicken and Furniture Garage, among others. At a recent meeting, the Midland Center City Authority approved another project at 2525 Washington St., in which the property owner will use a $2,500 facade grant to replace the front doors of the building. "We were just getting to the point where people were recognizing the program and inquiring about it so, I think we're going to see a lot more people take advantage of it," Tisdale said. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. Cotonou, Benin (PANA) - The Electoral Platform of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) of Benin has condemned the post-election violence that occurred in Cotonou and Kandi on May 1 and 2, according to a statement obtained by PANA Lome, Togo (PANA) - Togos minister of Health and Social Protection Mustapha Mijiyawa says malaria diagnosis and treatment is now free, official sources told PANA here Tuesday Bamako, Mali (PANA) Malian Prime Minister Boubou Cisse on Tuesday officiated at the launch of a nationwide measles vaccination campaign targeting about 3,660,799 children aged between 9 and 59 months, official sources told PANA on Wednesday Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The army loyal to the Libyan Government of National Accord (GNA) has denied that one of its fighter jets was shot down on Tuesday as claimed by the Libyan National Army (LNA), stating that it has not lost any plane Lome, Togo (PANA) Togo's National Alliance for Change (ANC) has denounced the flagrant interference of the government in the functioning of the National Independent Electoral Commission (CENI) ahead of local elections Jushi Holdings Inc. has released a video they say shows Jelani Day leaving the Bloomington Beyond/Hello cannabis dispensary. A company official said social media are "exploiting the confusion and anxiety of people related to Day's death. NORMAL Growing up as cousins whose mothers both were nurses, Maddie and Betsy Olson saw the long hours, stress and challenges that come with being a nurse. They chose to be nurses anyway. We grew up with the stories, said Maddie. They saw the hard work, but also saw the satisfaction their mothers had in knowing they made a difference in someone's life. You're so invested in your patient as a nurse, said Maddie. To have such a critical role in that is so special. Although the work is hard, it's worth it, added Betsy. It's a very giving profession. When they receive their bachelor's degrees on Friday at Illinois State University, they won't just be following in the footsteps of their mothers they will be following in the footsteps of other relatives in the field, too. And they will be following in the footsteps of 100 years of graduates from what is now the Mennonite College of Nursing. In fact, their mothers met at the Mennonite College of Nursing nearly 40 years ago although it was not part of ISU at the time. A group of us always studied together," said Dianne "Dee" Duty of Springfield, Maddie's mother. Duty and Anne McShane of Broadwell, Betsy's mother, went on to marry brothers. Once they pass their National Council Licensure Examination, Maddie and Betsy will be heading to work at the same hospital on the same floor: the night shift at Springfield Memorial Hospital's Neurological Intensive Care Unit. What are the odds? asked Duty. What are the odds, indeed. The university has received an average of 1,600 freshman applications each year for the past four years for its traditional pre-licensure nursing program, but only has the capacity to admit one in four applicants. Betsy called it a happy accident that their mothers and the two of them all wound up at Mennonite College of Nursing. Duty knows what it's like to follow in another's footsteps and wasn't surprised by her daughter's decision to become a nurse. It kind of was in her blood. She's been around it so much, said Duty, noting that, My mom was a nurse. My sister was a nurse. When she was about 12, Maddie went with her mother on a Take Your Daughter to Work Day, which helped solidify her choice of a career in health care. Coming from families with others in the nursing profession, "there's a lot of pressure on us to do well, acknowledged Maddie. Betsy agreed: They expect that from us. To which Maddie added, We expect it from ourselves. When they started college together, it was nice to have a familiar face, especially in large classes, said Maddie. But they saw less of each other in class as they got into their nursing courses, especially their clinical experiences. Having two students with the same last name and similar hairstyles and color in the same clinic courses where everyone is wearing the same white coats could have been a bit confusing. Betsy said, Growing up knowing nurses was helpful. Maddie said the stories her mother told her about real-life experiences helped her to learn. They said the simulation lab and skills lab at the college were extremely helpful in preparing them, as were their clinical experiences. One of the challenges of nursing school was learning to juggle so many things at once, said Betsy, but that just prepared us to be nurses. Betsy said, My mom's advice was to take things seriously, of course, but always take time for yourself. Both are excited to start working at the hospital. You learn so much on the floor as nurses, said Betsy. I'm excited to be on the (neurological) floor and have these experienced nurses on the floor to help me in this next step in my life. Contact Lenore Sobota at (309) 820-3240. Follow her on Twitter: @Pg_Sobota Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. BLOOMINGTON The annual letter carriers' food drive on Saturday has a benefit beyond collecting non-perishable food for our neighbors in need. "For some people, it's the first time that they may think that a neighbor may be facing hunger ... and here is something I can do about it," said Pat Turner, outreach director with Center for Hope Food Pantry Network in Bloomington. The 27th annual National Association of Letter Carriers' Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is Saturday. People are asked to leave grocery bags with donations of unopened, non-perishable food canned or boxed soups, meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, pasta or rice at their residential mailboxes on Saturday morning, said Nikki Wilson, a Bloomington-Normal letter carrier and a member of the food drive committee for letter carriers union Branch 522. Glass containers are not accepted. Letter carriers will collect the bags and with help from retired letter carriers and representatives of other labor unions will load donated food onto trucks from Midwest Food Bank, Wilson said. Representatives of Bloomington-Normal food pantries, including Center for Hope, will pick up food at the food bank beginning next week, Wilson said. Food collected in the area but outside Bloomington-Normal will go to the nearest food pantry. "It is a timely food drive," Turner said. Food pantries have given away food donated during Christmas, she said. Meanwhile, demand on food pantries increases during summer because some students aren't getting school lunches and some parents aren't working during the summer, she said. Wilson said, "I know this time of year, the food banks get low on food. This helps them to get stocked back up." Wilson said, as a mail carrier, she sees needs in the community. Personally, she grew up in a household that needed to supplement food purchases by going to a Salvation Army food pantry from time to time. "I love doing the food drive," Wilson said. "I like that we are able to help." In addition to receiving postcard reminders in the mail, some postal customers are getting plastic grocery bags to fill with food, Wilson said. Last year's food drive collected about 45,000 pounds of food in the area, including 37,000 pounds in Bloomington-Normal a drop after setting a record high 102,000 pounds of food, including 80,000 pounds from Bloomington-Normal, in 2017. "The goal is to beat last year," Wilson said. Contact Paul Swiech at (309) 820-3275. Follow him on Twitter: @pg_swiech Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. BLOOMINGTON The county's electronic records management system, which currently contains nearly a million documents, is long overdue for an upgrade or replacement, court administrator Will Scanlon told the County Board's justice committee Tuesday. The system, now known as the Electronic Justice System (EJS), contains records from 33 county agencies with 778 active users. Users within the criminal and civil justice system file more than 28,000 traffic citations, 1,500 misdemeanor cases, 1,200 felony cases and about 8,000 civil cases, according to Scanlon's report to the committee. The system currently contains more than 863,000 records; about 40,000 police reports are filed annually. But the system has become outdated and unable to handle the growing needs of the county, said Scanlon. The one-of-a-kind network does not have the capacity to handle electronic court filings mandated by the Illinois Supreme Court. The McLean County Circuit Clerk's Office began electronic filings for civil cases in 2018 and will be required to handle criminal and juvenile cases in 2020. The 20-year-old system lacks vendor support and an adequate financial system, said the report. The county is seeking recommendations on possible ways to upgrade or replace the system, said Scanlon. "What that replacement is, is unknown to us," said Scanlon. Judge Rebecca Foley told the committee the updated network benefits more than agencies within the county's borders. "Ultimately the system also is a benefit to the public," said Foley, pointing to the records management system used by law enforcement and data collection capabilities for problem-solving courts and the McLean County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. The cost of the EJS review is unknown until proposals are submitted but the fees will be paid from the courts automation fund. An overhaul or replacement of the system could cost several million dollars, according to previous estimates given to the County Board. A new version of EJS also will handle behavioral health records that could be shared by providers with jail staff who provide mental health care to mentally ill inmates, many of them arriving with existing prescriptions. The study is expected to take four to six months, with a proposal ready for consideration near the end of 2020, said the court administrator. The work to install a new system could take between 18 and 30 months. The new electronic records system could serve the county for another two decades, Scalon told the committee. Contact Edith Brady-Lunny at (309) 820-3276. Follow her on Twitter: @pg_blunny Love 0 Funny 2 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. SPRINGFIELD Illinois lawmakers stepped up on Tuesday to take aim at failures in the state's child-welfare agency, haunted for decades by deaths wrought of abuse and neglect that state officials too often are too poorly resourced or too poorly managed to prevent. Rep. Sara Feigenholtz stood with more than a dozen other House and Senate members of a newly formed child-welfare reform caucus with legislation to bolster checks and balances in the Department of Children and Family Services. Reeling from criticism of its handling of cases in which three children under its watch have died this year, DCFS took another hit on Tuesday. Auditor General Frank Mautino issued a review of the agency's investigative practices from 2015 to 2017, finding that while abuse and neglect complaints jumped 11 percent, its hotline put callers into voicemail more than half the time, caseloads of investigators regularly exceeded limits set by a federal consent decree, and in more than three of five cases reviewed, there was a lack of documentation showing that when a child stayed with a family, there were proper social services provided for the family. Feigenholtz's measure would set up an ongoing review of allegations of neglect or abuse in which DCFS investigators concluded there was insufficient evidence to sustain the claim, making sure all the boxes are checked. "We want to make sure that there are other sets of eyes on these cases that are so difficult," said Feigenholtz, a Chicago Democrat. It was a key missed piece in the case of Andrew "AJ" Freund of Crystal Lake, the 5-year-old whose parents are charged with murder after his body was found April 24 wrapped in plastic in a shallow grave near Woodstock in suburban Chicago. Records in that case show he confided to an emergency room doctor in December that he was beaten by a belt, but a DCFS administrator conceded last week that the information was missed when the agency ascribed AJ's bruising to a playful family dog; it closed the complaint in January. "Our mission is to take all the necessary steps to overhaul longstanding policies and procedures that have failed Illinois' children and these recommendations are an important element of our path forward," said DCFS Director Marc Smith in prepared statement. Even before AJ's death, Gov. J.B. Pritzker ordered a review by the University of Chicago's Chapin Hall research center to recommend DCFS improvements. That came after the deaths of a 2-year-old Decatur girl whose mother is charged with her murder after the girl was returned to her from foster care and a 2-year-old Chicago boy whose autopsy showed bruises and rib fractures never reported despite numerous DCFS visits with the boy. For years, DCFS has emphasized keeping biological families intact, when possible, but given the recent record, a change of focus might be in order, said Rep. Anna Moeller. "Our main priority must be what is best for the child, even if that means removing him or her from their parents," Moeller said. "We need to support and improve our foster care system and our adoption care programs. We need to provide appropriate resources so DCFS can do its job." The audit, ordered by the House in June 2017 because of similar problems, suggests that DCFS has repeatedly failed in following through on a key step to keeping troubled families intact providing the social services necessary to help those families past problems drug addiction, joblessness, or a lack of parenting skills, for example. The audit reported that investigators often did not follow DCFS rules by recording the "Level of Intervention" accorded to families they visit. Of the cases auditors reviewed where there was credible evidence of abuse or neglect, 43% involved inaccurate intervention levels. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 0 At CES 2019, Intel announced plans to help develop next-generation ultrabooks, code-named Project Athena. Now, with Project Athena Open Labs, Intels throwing open its doors to help make that vision a reality. Over the next few weeks, Intel said it plans to host what Project Athena Open Labs at Intel facilities in Taipei, Shanghai, and its office in Folsom, California. The goal is to help potential partners and customers develop Project Athena notebooks. Component vendors will be able to submit their parts for compliance testing against Intels own Athena requirements, some of which have been previously disclosed. Though Intel obviously designs its own components, it also works closely with partners and customers to assist them with their own designs. Intels programs for top-tier customers include the Innovation Excellence Program, a crack team of engineers that collaborate with a particular customer on a specific project, such as the HP Spectre Folio. But while a PC giant like HP can field its own in-house engineering teams, some smaller companies may genuinely need assistance in pushing a final PC design to market. Its these smaller companies that generally take advantage of approved component lists that Intel compiles, including reference designs that can serve as a template to manufacture a finished PC. Project Athena notebooks are due in the second half of 2019, with support from Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, Samsung, Sharp, and even Google. Intel already hosted 500 members at what it calls the Project Athena Ecosystem Symposium this week in Taiwan to ready the first wave of Project Athena designs for these top-tier customers. What this means to you: Disclosing the existence of the Project Athena Open Labs isnt so much an announcement as a public vote of confidence for Project Athena PCs. What Intels trying to do is establish Athena notebooks the same way we take thin-and-light PCs or ultrabooks for grantedand not just for people willing to spend $2,500, either. Daniel Masaoka / IDG HPs Spectre Folio is evidence of the good things that can come from a partnership between Intel engineers and its customers. Athena assistance for those who need it The Athena Open Labs will serve as a resource for the second tier of smaller PC vendors hoping to develop Athena designs, including white box vendors that sell PCs under a more popular brand name. Its these no-name vendors that will really determine whether Athena designs are merely a blip, or a long-term influence on the PC industry at large. Intel executives expressed a similar concern last year. We expect that, over time, not just to hit our north star of Project Athena designs, but also improve the experience of all laptops in the market, which is very similar to the experience we observed with the ultrabook, said Josh Newman, the general manager of mobile innovation segments for Intel, in January. Intel has already revealed some of the basic guiding principles and specifications of the Athena notebooks: They need to be instantly responsive, battery-efficient, always-connected, and tuned to anticipate some of your needs. Theyll be built around Intels low-power U- and Y-series processors, weigh less than three pounds, and have minimum specs for display brightness and battery life. Executives have said that they dont expect Athena hardware to be radical departures from todays notebooks, just better designs. Intel At the Open Labs, vendors will have a chance to submit hardware for assessment, tuning and compliance against the Athena specs. PC makers will also be able to nominate component vendors to be certified at the labs. Components will receive pass/fail grades, though Intel will work with hardware vendors to address any engineering challenges. The idea is to solve some of the issues early on, rather than at the cusp of their launch, Intel said. Each Open Lab is supported by experienced engineers to test, tune, and provide recommendations to improve power and performance capabilities across a broad range of laptop components and categories, such as audio, display, embedded controllers, haptics, SSDs and wireless, Intel said. The Open Labs plan to operate year-round. After years of asking the beloved Logitech G502 finally goes wireless, and with full Powerplay compatibility as well. This one wont be leaving our desks for a while. For nearly two years, every meeting I had with Logitech ended the same way: So uh, any news on a wireless G502? and for nearly two years the answer to my question was no. It was only a matter of time though. After all, you dont pivot your focus to wireless mice and leave your best-selling wired model behind. Well, the days finally here and the answer was finally Yes, we do have something to share. Today, Logitech officially unveils the G502 Lightspeed. Ive had one sitting on my desk for about a week now, and Ill tell you this: Its going to stay for a while. This review is part of our roundup of best gaming mice. Go there for details on competing products and how we tested them. Cutting the cord The Logitech G502 Lightspeed looks exactly like its predecessors except, you know, it doesnt have a cable. And thats exactly how it should be, yeah? Never mind the fact that, as Logitech told me last week, nearly every single components needed to be redesigned to make the transition from wired to wireless. The end user doesnt care about that. Pay no attention to the team of engineers behind the curtain. To you at home, it should seem like Logitech simply picked up an older G502 and snipped off the cable. IDG / Hayden Dingman And in that regard the Logitech G502 Lightspeed is an unmitigated success. This is the G502, the same one I used daily for three years straight between 2014 and 2017, and off-and-on after as well. It has the same gentle curve, the same elongated oval footprint, the same compact thumb rest off the left side. Its still one of the most comfortable mice Ive ever usedhighly subjective, sure, but Im far from alone in that assessment. As for functionality, the eleven-button layout remains intact, including the tilt wheel and the pair along the side of the left mouse button. Even the dual-mode scroll returns, allowing you to switch between smooth and notched scroll modes at the press of a button. All the particulars of the G502 have been recreated, the features that have kept it on our list of the best gaming mice since its inception. All of them except the cable, that is. Its an amazing design feat, one so clever the average user wont even notice. The wired and wireless Logitech G502 might as well be twins. Here, take a look at 2018s G502 Hero and the G502 Lightspeed side-by-side: IDG / Hayden Dingman There have been slight changes, of course. The G502s traditionally used a solid metal scroll wheel, a fairly heavy piece of hardware. The more fastidious among you might notice the G502 Lightspeed trades out solid metal for the spoked wheel already in use on the Logitech G903, cutting down on weight without reducing actual performancethough I admittedly find the soft-touch rubber coating less distinctive than the raw metal of the G502 Hero. Most of the noteworthy changes have been made to the bottom of the Logitech G502 Lightspeed though. Since its initial release, the G502s underside has featured a large removable panel that allowed the user to insert up to five 3.6 gram weights, either to make the mouse heavier overall or to skew the weight distribution to one side. The Logitech G502 Lightspeed is Powerplay compatible though (more on that later), meaning the underside needed to be redesigned around the circular Powercore charging module. Like the G703 and G903, this means every G502 Lightspeed ships with a placeholder, a circular plastic disc that slots into the bottom and is held magnetically. IDG / Hayden Dingman And like the G703/G903, this circular disc allows for some weight customization. The designs been slightly refined this time though. Where the G703 and G903 shipped with two discs, one empty and one filled with a single 10 gram weight, the G502 Lightspeed allows you to remove the included circle of plastic and insert up to two 4.0 gram weights straight into it, adding up to 8.0 grams of weight to the rear of the mouse. Theres no easily-lost second disc, and its a more granular system. Theres an obvious caveat though: Powerplay users cant take advantage, because these weights fill the same space as the Powercore module. Thus the Logitech G502 Lightspeed features a second system for weight customization. Like the older G502s, theres a removable plastic panel you can peel offthough the one on the G502 Lightspeed is smaller and arrayed more towards the front of the mouse. You can slot in up to four 2.0 gram weights thoughall of them, or two balanced out, or arrayed so the weight distributions thrown to one side or the other like the previous models. Suffice it to say, if youre determined to weigh down the G502 Lightspeed, you can. IDG / Hayden Dingman That said, the Logitech G502 Lightspeed is actually the lightest G502 to-date, addressing a common complaint kicked around since the mouses first iteration. The G502 Hero weighed in at a whopping 121 grams, and topped out at 139 gramswell above the 100 gram benchmark held as the industry ideal. But the G502 Lightspeed somehow cuts the weight to 114 grams. Seven grams might not seem like a lot, but its a minor miracle. Think about it: The G502 Lightspeed looks and feels like its predecessor, but includes both a battery and the necessary wireless hardwareand yet it weighs less than the G502s of old. Its still on the heavier end, for sure, weighing more than both the G703 (106 grams) and the G903 (108 grams) as well as Razers recent Mamba Wireless redesign (106 grams). The big worry though was that a wireless G502 would add to the wired models already prodigious weight. If you had no problem with the G502 before (and I didnt), then the Logitech G502 Lightspeed should be no issue. If anything, you might be tempted to load it up a bit to match the old model. Ive also found the G502 Lightspeed glides better, probably due to the way the feet have been redesigned around the Powercore module. Theres now a large U-shaped pad following the rear contour, which makes a subtle but significant difference. IDG / Hayden Dingman That about covers the changes. The core of the G502 Lightspeed is the same flagship Hero sensor used on all Logitechs mice these days, including last years G502 Hero model. The Hero sensor is essentially a power-efficient version of the PMW3366 that first catapulted the Logitech G502 to fame, slightly upgraded to reach 16,000 DPI instead of 12,000. Those numbers are largely meaningless though, with most players staying in the 400 to 3,500 DPI range, and Heros primarily noteworthy for being a high-performance sensor thats less a burden on battery. To whit, the G502 Lightspeed will reputedly last up to 48 hours with the RGB lighting zones on, or up to 60 hours with them disabled. Those are huge numbers. And sure, Heros partially to thank, but I cant stress enough how far both batteries and power management have come in the last few years. The G703 and G903 both use Hero sensors, and yet theyre rated for a comparatively dismal 24 hours of battery, or 32 with the lighting disabled. The aforementioned Razer Mamba Wireless upgraded to 50 hours in 2018. Now we have a wireless mouse that can hit 60 hours on a single charge. Amazing. Fire-and-forget I wouldnt know though, because I havent run the G502 Lightspeed down from a full charge. As I said, the Logitech G502 Lightspeed is Powerplay compatible, and thats the reason Ive waited two years for a wireless G502. Prior to 2017 I wasnt much of a wireless mouse fan. Even once manufacturers eliminated the performance gap between wired and wireless, I found it irksome having to remember to plug in a wireless mouse every night when I could just leave one plugged in all the time and avoid thinking about it. And then Powerplay came along, a mouse pad that could wirelessly trickle-charge a compatible device while it was in use. As I wrote back then: What Powerplay offers is true fire-and-forget wireless. Seriously: You just forget its wireless. Ive been using the G903 for around a month now. Its never died on me mid-match. Its never died on me period. Ive never gone to sleep at night and thought, Oh crap, I need to walk back to my computer and plug in my mouse. Nope. As advertised, the G903 has cycled between 80 and 95 percent battery, discharging and recharging to keep the battery healthy but otherwise staying fully charged. After about a week you stop thinking about it. Others (Razer, Corsair) quickly mimicked Logitech but none measured up, and thus Powerplays been a near-constant fixture on my desk for the last two years now. The G502 Lightspeed is the first addition to that ecosystem since the initial product release. Its easy as ever to swap to a new mouse, if youre an existing owner. I used Logitechs G-Hub software to desync the G903 from my existing Powerplay mouse pad, paired the G502 Lightspeed by simply turning it on, transferred the same Powercore module Ive used the last two years, and Ive been using the G502 uninterrupted ever sincewithout even once plugging it into my PC directly. IDG / Hayden Dingman It still feels like magic to me, even two years later. Or rather, it feels like magic when Im forced to think about it, as when reviewing the now-wireless version of a mouse I used wired for years. As my past self said, the vast majority of the time I never have to think about Powerplay at all, and thats exactly what makes it cool. Of course, its also expensive as hell. The G502 Lightspeed will already run you $150, and Powerplay is an extra (and technically unnecessary) $100 purchase on top. $250 is an exorbitant amount of money to spend on a mouse, I wont argue the factespecially when the comparable wired variant is $60 on Amazon as I write this. Nearly $200 just to ditch the wires? Ridiculous! And yet I cant praise Powerplay enough. Im fully a convert, and have found it difficult to go back to wired mice on the rare occasions weve reviewed them. Sure, the problems Powerplay solves are relatively minor, but the convenience of never having to think about those issues at all? Hard to overstate, especially over the span of a few years. Bottom line The G502 Lightspeed was worth the wait. Logitechs managed to reproduce the mouse people know and love, but ditch the cord and bring it in at a more appealing weightand improve the battery life over the G703 and G903 to boot. Its one hell of a coup. As I said, I used the wired G502 daily for three years, only trading it out for a G903 when Logitechs Powerplay tech enticed me to go wireless. Now theres a Powerplay-compatible G502, and I dont expect it to leave my desk for a very long time. Its hard to imagine what could replace it, honestly. Im sure something will. Time keeps moving and technology keeps improving, and once upon a time we all used trackball mice. But for now at least, the Logitech G502 Lightspeed is the one to beat. Holding the Pixel 3a XL in my hand, it feels indistinguishable from the Pixel 3 XL Ive been using since October. Yeah, as a phone reviewer, you almost want a budget phone to feel different, but despite the fact the 3a has a plastic body instead of aluminum, its tactile feel remains unchanged. The Pixel 3a XL also includes all the same computational photography tricks as the more expensive Pixel, including Night Sight, which renders impossibly dark environments as if they were shot in daylight. And despite boasting a slower Snapdragon 670 processor, the 3as software experience doesnt feel any slower than my Pixel 3s (though, granted, comparisons like this are riskyIve been using the original 3 for months now, so its possible its grown a bit laggy over time). So since these phones look and feel so similar, are there any other compelling reasons to buy the cheaper phone? For starters, the Pixel 3a is solidly a full-fledged Pixel phoneat a friendly $399 for the 5.6-inch model, and $479 for the 6-inch model. This means all of the cool next-generation Assistant features that Google announced on the I/O stage today will almost certainly hit the Pixel 3a and 3a XL when they launch later this year. Adam Patrick Murray/IDG Yup, thats a headphone jack on the Pixel 3a. And of course Pixel phones get Android security and OS updates as soon as Google releases them, for at least three years. Getting the most cutting-edge Android experience has always been the strongest rationale for buying a Pixel, and now you can have that at a budget price. Indeed, the Pixel 3 and 3 XL still cost $800 and $900, respectively. But for some, simple price savings may not be the only reasons to buy. Indeed, the new budget Pixels have features that dont appear anywhere on the more expensive models, and two features in particular erase some controversies. First, both the Pixel 3a and 3a XL boast a 3.5-inch headphone jack. I migrated to Bluetooth earbuds eons ago, but wired earbud users remain steadfast, and the 3a is now ready to fight their fight. So if you want a Pixel 3, and insist on wired headphones, one of the 3a models is your only choice. Adam Patrick Murray/IDG If you hate the Pixel 3 XLs notch, youll love the Pixel 3a. Second, the notch. The dreaded, endlessly ridiculed display notch. It remains big, bad, bouncy and beautiful on the 6.3-inch Pixel 3 XL, but on the 6-inch Pixel 3a XL its just not there. The 3as resolution is 21601080 versus the 3 XLs 14402960, but display quality remains excellentand, hey, no notch! Oh, and do you care about paint jobs? The Pixel 3a comes in a new color called Purple-ish. It looks almost white, but its subtlety notwithstanding you wont find it on the Pixel 3. Adam Patrick Murray/IDG The Purple-ish Pixel 3a (top) isnt all that different than the white one. But the buttons tell a more vivid story. But lets not kid ourselves, the Pixel 3a is all about delivering Googles amazing A.I. tricksfrom Google Assistant to computational photographyat a price that middle-class buyers can afford, and that non-nerds can justify. This is the phone for all those folks whove seen Googles dazzling Pixel 3 TV spots, legitimately wanted the phone, then spit-taked at the price. The only reason not to buy the Pixel 3a for folks pining for a Google phone? Its called the Pixel 4, and its sure to promise some amazing exclusive features when it launches this October. But until then, the Pixel 3a is just as much phone as the Pixel 3at half the price. Ever since its 2016 debut, the Pixel phone has always deserved better: better design, better camera hardware, better carrier support, better price. Instead, what we got was an expensive phone that would have been long forgotten if not for the G stamped on the back. But despite its high price tag, the Google stamp of approval has come to be synonymous with a phone that delivers on the things that matter. It might not have the glamour of a Galaxy or the instant appeal of an iPhone, but the Pixels are still considered among the finest phones on the market, mainly for three reasons: Assistant, Android, and computational photography. Adam Patrick Murray/IDG Even in plastic, the frosted Pixel 3a cuts a striking pose. With software that shines that brightly, what Googles really selling here is a platform, while the phone is just the vessel. Now Google is bringing that platform to a much cheaper phone. On paper, the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL have pretty ho-hum specs: Display: 5.6-inch or 6-inch Full HD+ OLED Processor: Snapdragon 670 RAM: 4GB Storage: 64GB Camera: 12.2MP, f/1.8 Battery: 3,000mAh or 3,700mAh But much like their premium siblings, specs dont tell the whole story of the Pixel 3a and 3a XL. The downgraded screen and processor may be noticeable when compared to the Pixel 3 XL, but they shouldnt affect the experience. The 670 processor is about as fast as the Snapdragon 821 in the original Pixel, and the 1080p screen packs plenty of pixels. At half the price youd expect to sacrifice a lot more. None of the absent featureswireless charging, water resistance, dual front cameraswill detract from what it is: a Pixel. Premium at a lower price One could even argue that the 3a is the first Pixel phone that truly makes sense, because its not trying too hard to be premium. Frankly, if you didnt know how much the Pixel 3 XL cost, youd never guess it was an $899 phone. The design is bland, the notch is a downright eyesore, and it has just a single rear camera. Adam Patrick Murray/IDG If you hate the Pixel 3 XLs notch (right), youll love the Pixel 3as return to simplicity (left). If anything, the 3a is likely an acknowledgment by Google that the Pixel simply cant compete at the high end. Samsung and Apple essentially have a lock on the premium smartphone space (with a little Huawei thrown in). Google has struggled to convince buyers that the Pixel is worth as much as a Galaxy S10. With the 3a, Google can market the Pixel on its merits.The plastic, bezel-heavy Pixel 3a is utilitarian at best, and thats the point. Without the weight of a high price tag, the Pixels camera, launcher, and Assistant features outweigh its looks. Most buyers wont mind that it lacks the best features or the biggest screen or the fastest processor. For $399, the Pixel is a steal, whereas at $799, itd be a decision. Brand recognition The Pixel 3a may have traded glass for plastic, but in doing so it has elevated the Pixel platform beyond just another Android phone. It doesnt really have a competitor. If you look at other Android handsets in the $400-$500 space, nearly all of them have subpar cameras and questionable update paths. Google delivers on both with the 3a, cementing the Pixel name as its own brand. Adam Patrick Murray/IDG The Pixel 3a has the same stylings as the Pixel 3, right down to the accent color on the power button. I never thought of it before, but Google could conceivably license the Pixel platform and create a whole new ecosystem on top of Android. The Pixel 3a proves that specs dont matter. If Google can craft a high-end experience with a single camera and a Snapdragon 670 processor, why wouldnt other OEMs want to build a phone around the platform too? Google could control the system like Android One and build an army of phones: Pixel by LG. Pixel by OnePlus. But even if that day never arrives, Google has done its job. The Pixel 3a is a stroke of genius, taking the best parts of a phone thats out of reach for most people and putting them in an extremely affordable package. For the first time, the Pixel can be seen for what it is: beautiful on the inside. Mary E. Banks worked for the Harrisburg Police Department, Department of Corrections and the Dauphin County home. Banks, 89, of Harrisburg, died May 1. She went to Catholic schools. She was a member of St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Jinx Club and enjoyed traveling. Surviving are her children, Herman and Florence Banks, Shirley Banks-Bennett (George), Vanderbilt and Victoria Banks and Karen Banks-Johnson (Robert); a brother, Joseph Alton; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. From her guest book: Your mother was a fine woman and a great role model for many. -- Marsha, Stephane, Samette and our extended families, Harrisburg She was a kind, gentle and hard-working woman. She was the matriarch of a wonderful family and will be missed. -- Dawn Hamilton, Marysville Mrs. Mary Banks as we affectionately called her (full name) was a sweet compassionate woman who was always there for everyone. -- Jeanne Joyce, Lexington, Ky. To read more obituaries, click here. Good Morning, Pennsylvania Sign up now for Good Morning, Pennsylvania, and get the most important headlines delivered free to your inbox by 6 a.m. Monday-Friday. On May 8, 1945, President Harry S. Truman announced on radio that Nazi Germanys forces had surrendered. "This is a solemn but glorious hour," said Truman. "General Eisenhower informs me that the forces of Germany have surrendered to the United Nations. The flags of freedom fly all over Europe. Victory in Europe Day celebrates the acceptance of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender of its armed forces, marking the beginning of the end of World War II in Europe. A vast crowd assembled in front of Buckingham Palace, London, on VE-Day, May 8, 1945, cheers the Royal Family as they come out on the balcony, centre, minutes after the official announcement of Germany's unconditional surrender. From left are: Princess Elizabeth; Queen Elizabeth; King George VI; and Princess Margaret. (AP Photo/Leslie Priest)AP Massive celebrations erupted around the world. VE-Day also happened on Trumans 61st birthday. And, Truman and his family had just moved into the White House the day before. In his address, however, Truman, went on to note that World War II was not over. His words, from the American Presidency Project: "We can repay the debt which we owe to our God, to our dead, and to our children, only by work, by ceaseless devotion to the responsibilities which lie ahead of us. If I could give you a single watchword for the coming months, that word is work, work, and more work. We must work to finish the war. Our victory is only half over." The roof of a taxi was the stage for this group of revellers in Piccadilly Circus, London, May 7, 1945, as civilians, British and Allied troops celebrate the end of the war in Europe. (AP Photo)ASSOCIATED PRESS Now, we have got another little release here, which doesnt go into the speech, but it informs the Japanese what they can expect. We are going to be in a position where we can turn the greatest war machine in the history of the world loose on the Japanese; and I am informed by the Chiefs of Staff, by the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of the Navy, that Japan is going to have a terrible time from now on. This release here, I will read it. "The Japanese people have felt the weight of our land, air, and naval attacks. So long as their leaders and the armed forces continue the war, the striking power and intensity of our blows will steadily increase, and will bring utter destruction to Japan's industrial war production, to its shipping, and to everything that supports its military activity. People crowd into the street outside the U.S. and British Embassies, Lisbon, Portugal, on VE-Day, May 8, 1945. Jubilant crowds celebrated for two days and nights. (AP Photo)AP "The longer the war lasts, the greater will be the suffering and hardships which the people of Japan will undergo-all in vain. Our blows will not cease until the Japanese military and naval forces lay down their arms in unconditional surrender. "Just what does the unconditional surrender of the armed forces mean for the Japanese people? "It means the end of the war. "It means the termination of the influence of the military leaders who brought Japan to the present brink of disaster. President Harry S. Truman sits in front of the microphone holding his speech to the nation announcing the Allied armies won an unconditional surrender from German forces on all fronts, 1945, file. (AP Photo)AP "It means provision for the return of soldiers and sailors to their families, their farms, and their jobs. "And it means not prolonging the present agony and suffering of the Japanese in the vain hope of victory. "Unconditional surrender does not mean the extermination or enslavement of the Japanese people." Pfc. Clarence K. Ayers of Evansville, Ind., reads the news of VE-Day as newly arrived German prisoners stand of a New York City pier, May 8, 1945. (AP Photo/John Rooney)AP "The West is free but the East is still in bondage to the treacherous tyranny of the Japanese. When the last Japanese division has surrendered unconditionally, then only will our fighting job be done. We must work to bind up the wounds of a suffering world - to build an abiding peace, a peace rooted in justice and in law." On Aug. 14, 1945, Japan surrendered. That surrender was accepted in September by Gen. Douglas MacArthur, ending World War II. One student died, and eight classmates were wounded Tuesday in a shooting at a suburban Denver school, law enforcement authorities said, less than a month after the region marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine massacre. The student who died was a senior who was expected to graduate in just three days, officials said. He died at the school. Two suspects, both students at the school, are in custody, according to Douglas County officials. The adult suspect was named late Tuesday as Devon Erickson, 18. The other suspect is a juvenile female, officials from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office said. The Denver region has been on edge as the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre was memorialized, and deadly threats were called in to other Denver area schools. The Columbine attack, in which two teenagers killed 13 people, marked the beginning of a new era in the United States - a time when the threat of school shootings has taught a generation of children how to flee, hide and even fight back when faced with a gunman. "This is not who we are," District Attorney George Brauchler said at news conference Wednesday morning, adding that he had grown up in the area and that if someone had told him that in 20 years the region would endure multiple mass shootings, he would have thought them crazy. "These are aberrant acts," he said, despite the fact that several attacks have happened within a 20-mile radius. Now is the time to mourn and to weep, he said, but the people of Colorado are resilient. "My kids are going to go to school today," he said, acknowledging the conversations anxious parents are having. "I recommend everyone else send their kids, too." Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not identified the student who was killed, according to the sheriff's department, but confirmed that the victim is an 18-year-old male. Five of the other students who were shot have been released from hospitals, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said, and three remain in intensive care. It had been only days since another school shooting. At the University of North Carolina in Charlotte last week, a student tackled a gunman who opened fire in a classroom, police said, killing two and wounding four others. The Colorado shooting happened shortly before 2 p.m. Tuesday local time at the STEM School Highlands Ranch - a charter school campus with more than 1,800 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The shooters were able to walk in through a middle-school entrance that does not have a metal detector and get deep inside the school, Spurlock said. Two pistols were used in the shooting, Spurlock said, but he declined to give further information about the weapons at a Wednesday morning news conference. Neither suspect would have been legally able to purchase a gun, Spurlock said. Holly Nicholson-Kluth, undersheriff for the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, said the shooting started in the middle school portion of the campus, and an administrator called police after hearing shots. "Quite a few" shots were fired, Nicholson-Kluth said. She said her agency has a substation blocks from the school and responded quickly. Officers could hear gunshots as they arrived, she said. Within two minutes, the first deputy arrived and confronted a gunman, Spurlock said. Shots were fired, and deputies struggled with the suspects before taking them into custody, he said. "I have to believe the quick response of the officers that got inside that school helped save lives," Spurlock said. The wounded students were 15 years old or older, he said. Spurlock said it was too early to discuss possible motives for the attack. Neither of the suspects was injured, he said. The suspects were "not on the radar" of law enforcement, as far as he knew, he said. A suspect vehicle was being searched in the school parking lot, Spurlock said, and both suspects' houses would be searched. The FBI is investigating the crime scene, Spurlock said. No teachers or staff members were wounded to his knowledge, Spurlock said. School officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday, but early Wednesday they posted on social media that the school would be closed for the rest of the week and a crisis support center would open to all students, parents and staff. "It is with unspeakable grief and shocking disbelief that we share this message with our school community," the statement said. "It is important during this difficult time that our community comes together and that we take care of one another. . . . "Our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by today's tragedy, and we are heartened by the bravery of our students, staff, parents and first responders. " Colorado state leaders offered prayers and aid to law enforcement. Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, said Wednesday morning that Colorado has been no stranger to tragedy. Just weeks ago, he joined survivors of Columbine, many of whom now have children of their own, for a memorial and a day of service. In this tragedy as well, people will come together to support all of those who were hurt, he said. "We are a resilient state." And, he said, America has seen too many of these senseless acts of violence. A midstate trainer who was convicted of conspiring with veterinarians to illegally administer drugs to horses at Penn National Race Course was sentenced Tuesday to 27 months in federal prison. Murray Rojas is the latest person punished as a result of a wide-ranging investigation into race-rigging at the Dauphin County track. U.S. Middle District Senior Judge Sylvia H. Rambo sent Rojas, 53, of Grantville, to prison 22 months after a jury found Rojas guilty of 13 charges of causing a prescription animal drug to be misbranded and one count of conspiracy. The jurors acquitted Rojas of mail fraud and wire fraud charges. When she was indicted in 2015, investigators said Rojas had veterinarians administer hormones, anti-inflammatories and other drugs to her horses within 24 hours of races in violation of racing rules. Those medicated horses won more than $52,000 in purses in January and February of 2013. Prosecutors said fraudulent invoices and veterinary treatment reports were submitted to the state Horse Racing Commission to try to conceal the illegal drugging. Defense attorney Robert E. Goldman, who has vowed to appeal Rojas convictions, argued in a sentencing memorandum that Rojas didnt participate in any such false filings. He again urged Rambo to void his clients convictions claiming they arent supported by evidence. In the alternative, he asked that a probation sentence be imposed on his client. Goldman called on the prosecutor to admit there was no evidence presented at trial that showed that any drugs dispensed to Rojas were then used by veterinarians to administer to the subject horses on race day. He complained as well the he was prevented from presenting evidence during the trial that the medications in question had no performance enhancing qualities. The defense was therefore hamstrung in its defense that any administration of substances to horses on race day was therapeutic in nature, intended to prevent harm to the horse, and not to win races, Goldman wrote. He noted the convictions have been ruinous to Rojas, who has become a pariah in her beloved profession. Her state trainers license was revoked, Goldman wrote, and she was ejected from Penn National the day after the jurys verdict. Her husband was ejected from the track as well. However, he appealed the ejection, and a Commonwealth Court ruled that his ejection violated his civil rights. Other trainers, veterinarians and a timer at Penn National have been prosecuted on race-rigging charges in recent years. Rojas is the only defendant to take the charges filed against them to trial. Her sentence is the most severe imposed on any of those charged in the long-running probe. In addition to the prison term, Rambo ordered Rojas to pay a $5,000 fine and spend 2 years on probation after she is released. Although the judge ordered Rojas to start her prison sentence next month, U.S. Attorney David Freed noted that a ruling is pending on a request that Rojas be allowed to remain free on bail as she appeals her convictions. ATLANTA Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Tuesday signed into law one of the nations most restrictive abortion laws, a measure that bans the procedure once a fetal heartbeat is detected, which can be as early as six weeks, before many women know they are pregnant. Kemp, a Republican, said he approved the bill "to ensure that all Georgians have the opportunity to live, grow, learn and prosper in our great state." The signing caps weeks of tension and protests at the state Capitol and begins what could be a lengthy and costly legal battle over the law's constitutionality. But a legal showdown is exactly what supporters want. "We will not back down," Kemp said. "We will always continue to fight for life." Anti-abortion activists and lawmakers across the country have been energized by the new conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court that includes President Donald Trump appointees Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh. They are pushing abortion bans in an attack on the high court's 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling, which legalized abortion nationwide until a fetus is developed enough to live outside a woman's uterus. Staci Fox, the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Southeast, said she had one message for Kemp: "We will see you, sir, in court." At a news conference on the Capitol steps, she said the new law criminalizes doctors for providing lifesaving care. The organization vowed to campaign to unseat lawmakers who supported it, saying they would "be held accountable for playing politics with women's health." The legal director of the ACLU of Georgia, Sean Young, has said the group will challenge the measure in court. "Under 50 years of Supreme Court precedent, this abortion ban is clearly unconstitutional," Young said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. "Every federal court that has heard a challenge to a similar ban has ruled that it's unconstitutional." Current law allows women in Georgia to seek an abortion during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. If it's not blocked in court, the new ban would take effect Jan. 1. The measure makes exceptions in the case of rape and incest if the woman files a police report first and to save the life of the mother. It also would allow for abortions when a fetus is determined not to be viable because of serious medical issues. In addition, the bill includes provisions for alimony, child support and even income tax deductions for fetuses, declaring that "the full value of a child begins at the point when a detectable human heartbeat exists." The legislation would result in $10 million to $20 million in lost tax revenue for the state each year, according to its author, Republican Rep. Ed Setzler, who offered the estimate during a committee hearing in March. Setzler called the bill a "common sense" measure that seeks to "balance the difficult circumstances women find themselves in with the basic right to life of a child." Georgias Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, right, shakes hands with state Sen. Renee Unterman, R-Buford, after signing legislation, Tuesday, May 7, 2019, in Atlanta, banning abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which can be as early as six weeks before many women know theyre pregnant. Kemp said he was signing the bill to ensure that all Georgians have the opportunity to live, grow, learn and prosper in our great state. (Bob Andres/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)AP But Democratic Sen. Jen Jordan said "there's nothing balanced about it: It's an all-out abortion ban." Jordan said she is particularly worried that the new law will push obstetricians away from practicing in Georgia, worsening health care outcomes for women in a state that already has one of the nation's worst maternal mortality rates. "It's about the unintended consequences," Jordan said. "They're making policy choices that are going to end up causing women to die, and they're preventable deaths." Georgia has at least 11 abortion providers, according to the National Abortion Federation, a group that advocates for access to abortion. Some abortion providers have already faced negative effects from the bill, according to Wula Dawson, director of development and communications for the Feminist Women's Health Center, an abortion clinic in Georgia. Dawson said anti-abortion protesters outside their clinic have become "bolder and more aggressive" toward patients. In the first few months of 2019, "heartbeat" abortion bans have been signed into law in four states: Mississippi, Kentucky, Ohio, and now Georgia. Lawmakers in other states including Tennessee, Missouri, South Carolina, Florida, Texas, Louisiana and West Virginia, are considering similar proposals. A bill that recently passed the Alabama House would outlaw abortions at any stage of pregnancy, with a few narrow exceptions. Kentucky's law was immediately challenged by the ACLU after it was signed in March, and a federal judge temporarily blocked it. Earlier versions of the law passed in North Dakota and Iowa have also been struck down in court. According to the Guttmacher Institute, a research group that supports abortion rights, about 33,000 abortions were provided in Georgia in 2014. -- Ben Nadler and Sanya Mansoor of The Associated Press wrote this story. After reciting the Pledge of Allegiance over the loud speaker at a Delaware County school, it would be punctuated with the phrase God bless America. But due to a complaint filed by an attorney, the Sabold Elementary School in Springfield has stopped the practice, Action News 6 ABC is reporting. An attorney contacted the school on behalf a client there, saying this practice violated the law, according to reports. The Springfield School District released a statement indicating the Pledge of Allegiance itself has not been altered, and students can still, on their own, say God bless America afterwards if they choose, but it will no longer be recited over the loud speakers, reports state. Please understand that the district does not make the law. We follow it, the statement said. Gov. Tom Wolf has approved the commutation of the life prison sentence for a man who has spent 51 years behind bars for a slaying that occurred during the 1968 robbery of a bank in downtown Harrisburg. The commutation for Samuel J. Barlow Jr., who was two months past his 18th birthday when the crime occurred, was backed not only by the state Board of Pardons, but also by Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo. Barlow, now 68, has been in prison since his arrest right after the fatal shooting at a Dauphin Deposit Trust Co. office on Market Street in December 1968. Samuel Barlow Jr. The Pittsburgh man and two accomplices, Sharon Wiggins and Foster Tarver, both 17, were confronted by a customer, George Morelock. A struggle ensued and Wiggins and Tarver shot Morelock. All three robbers were captured by police before they could flee the city. Each was sentenced to life in prison. Wiggins died in prison several years ago. Tarver, then 66, was resentenced to 40 years to life in jail last year under a U.S. Supreme Court mandate that bars the imposition of mandatory life prison terms on juvenile killers. The resentencing set him up for parole. He went home to Pittsburgh last June. Barlow didnt fall under the juvenile killer rule because he was 18 when Morelock was killed. In supporting a commutation, Chardo argued that fairness required that Barlow, who didnt shoot anyone during the robbery, also get a shot at freedom. In a letter to the pardons board, the DA wrote that Barlow has behaved himself in prison. He noted, too, that Tarver asked him to lobby for Barlows commutation. Barlows commutation is one of eight granted so far by Wolf, the most approved by any Pennsylvania governor in the last 25 years. Records show that as of Wednesday Barlow is awaiting release from the state prison in Coal Township. Once released from prison, Barlow will go to a halfway house for a year, then remain on parole for the rest of his life. Drivers for Uber and Lyft ride-sharing companies are organizing strikes Wednesday in 10 cities, but it does not appear that operations in Harrisburg will be affected. The cities where the strikes are expected to occur, although they will take different forms in different cities: Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, San Diego, San Francisco and Stamford, Conn. In Philadelphia drivers are expected to continue to work, saying they can't afford to take time off, but will rally at noon at the Southwest Philadelphia Uber driver headquarters, according to Philly.com. In some other cities they'll be turning off their apps for a set length of time Wednesday. Uber and Lyft drivers appear to be available to customers in the Harrisburg area as of mid-morning Wednesday. Drivers say they are striking to protest what they say are decreasing wages for drivers and a lack of job security, according to NPR. The strike comes just days ahead of Uber's initial public stock offering on Friday. Uber hopes to raise $9 billion and is expected to be valued at up to $91.5 billion. Uber/Lyft going public on the stock market will make billionaires of Uber and Lyft bosses while drivers struggle in poverty and the companies destroy the livelihoods of drivers in every sector, the New York drivers organization posted on its website. Uber and Lyft each expressed concern for their drivers, who they say are contractors, not employees. Drivers are at the heart of our service we cant succeed without them and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road," Uber said in a statement. Whether its more consistent earnings, stronger insurance protection or fully-funded four-year degrees for drivers or their families, well continue to improve the experience for and with drivers. Jose Cisneros-Alvizures was taking a nap with his 2-year-old girl, but she somehow found her way outside, police said. When his brothers woke him up, Cisneros-Alvizures learned that his daughter had ventured outside and was nearly hit by a car. Cisneros-Alvizures, 23, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child. According to the criminal complaint: Officers were dispatched at 1:54 p.m. on April 22 to the 200 block of Lincoln Street for a 2-year-old girl found wandering the street near the intersection with Bailey Street. A woman in the area told officers that the child was nearly hit by a vehicle and had a full diaper. An officer arrived to find the child only wearing a diaper and in her bare feet, according to the criminal complaint. A neighbor provided an officer a diaper and wipes so that the officer could change the child. An officer knocked on doors of several residences in the surrounding areas, including the girls residence, but had no luck finding her parents. Dauphin County Children and Youth was contacted and the child was taken into their custody, according to the complaint. About an hour after police arrived, two men walked out of the girls residence and appeared to be looking for a child, according to police. Officers determined the men were the childs uncles and had just realized she was missing. An officer went with the two men and made contact with Cisneros-Alvizures, who told officers he laid down to take a nap with his daughter at 10 a.m. that morning with the bedroom door locked. Officers learned Cisneros-Alvizures works nights and sleeps during the day, according to the complaint. Cisneros-Alvizures also told officers his daughter does not sleep well at night. Cisneros-Alvizures was eventually awakened by his brothers when they realized the girl was missing, according to the complaint. Cisneros-Alvizures brothers told police they were upstairs in their rooms and had no idea the girl got out of the house. Police said Cisneros-Alvizures took "full responsibility for the girl getting out of the house, according to the complaint. The child was left in the care of Dauphin County Children and Youth. A suspect in a New York homicide was arrested in Harrisburg on Wednesday, according to the U.S. Marshals Service. Anthony Frazier, 37, of Brooklyn, was taken into custody in the 600 block of Reilly Street around 6 a.m., by the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, the Marshals said. Frazier was arrested without incident and turned over to Harrisburg police, according to the marshals. He is awaiting extradition to New York. The marshals service said Frazier is suspected of being one of several men who chased another man through the streets, killing him by hitting him with a large rock and shooting him. The whole chase was caught on surveillance video, according to New York media reports. When the NYPD couldnt find Frazier in Brooklyn, the U.S. Marshals Service was called in for assistance. Task force members tracked Frazier to Harrisburg, the Marshals said. United States Marshal Pane stated, Its the Marshals Services duty to ensure that those charged with violent crimes have their day in court. It is my sincere hope that the victims family will find some measure of comfort knowing the suspect will face justice. Nursing home owners and people who staff them agree nursing homes face a funding crisis that has been building for years and seems near the breaking point. The crisis not only results in low wages for the people caring for our most vulnerable, but is now making it impossible to find enough people to do the job. Both parties made their cases Wednesday to the state House committee that deals with aging and services for older adults. They emphasized government funding increases have been near stagnant for 15 years, while people being cared for in nursing homes have become progressively sicker and in need of more care. A common goal of organizations representing nursing homes and the SEIU, which represents nursing home workers, is a state budget increase for Medicaid, which pays the costs of about 70 percent of residents of people living at Pennsylvania nursing homes. Representatives of the nursing home industry said Medicaid pays the states nursing homes $631 million less that what it costs to care for the residents. Were doing more and more and more and we dont have funding to go with it, said Kelly Andrisano of the Pennsylvania Coalition of Affiliated Healthcare and Living Communities, referring to the high proportion of very sick and frail nursing home residents. The groups are asking for a 2.8 percent Medicaid increase, saying the request is based on the most recent annual change in the cost of care. The increase would apply to all nursing homes caring for people covered by Medicaid. However, Matt Yarnell, the president of SEIU Healthcare Pennsylvania, said the union doesnt support an across the board increase. Rather, additional funding should go to providers who hire more staff, provide living wages, provide affordable health insurance, invent in training, and have positive labor relations, he said. That drew a rebuttal from Zach Shamberg, the CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association, which represents nursing homes. Shamberg noted critics claims that nursing home operators are prone to using funding increases for profit-driven purposes. However, he said thats not true of the homes he represents. Also, giving increases only to high performing homes will further hurt that the ones unable to provide good care because of their present funding. Any money will go to quality of care. There is no other choice, Shamberg said. Theres not one dollar that wouldnt go to wages, to benefits, to patient care. As it stands, Pennsylvania has about 700 nursing homes caring for roughly 80,000 people. Those figures refer to skilled nursing homes facilities which care for people who require intense medical care and help with things such as as eating, getting out of bed and dressing. Speakers on Wednesday noted Pennsylvania has the third-highest population of people over 65, and ranks fourth for people over 85. Moreover, Pennsylvania as of next year will have 3.5 million people over 60 one in four and 70 percent of people who reach 65 will at some point need long term care. It was also stressed Wednesday that Pennsylvania is among only a few states where assisted living isnt covered by Medicaid. Assisted living is a form of care for people who arent severely ill and in need of constant help, and is preferred by many people because it allows more freedom and independence. However, speakers told lawmakers the lack of Medicaid funding for assisted living limits its availability in Pennsylvania. A bill thats been introduced in the House would allow Medicaid to pay for assisted living. Management and labor disagreed on a proposal to raise the minimum about of care given to nursing home residents to 4.1 hours per day, up from 2.7 hours. Industry representatives said the number of hours should be allowed to vary, based on things including the level of need of the resident and the physical features of the home. We dont believe 4.1 is the right number and we dont think its one size fits all, said one. The SEIUs Yarnell argued the 4.1 hours proposal is based on extensive analysis which concluded its the minimum amount of direct attention needed to care for a nursing home resident, and some will need more. Nursing home industry representatives on Wednesday further took the opportunity to voice objections to to several proposed regulations, saying the nursing home industry has surpassed the nuclear industry to become the second-most regulated industry. Anne Henry, the chief government affairs officer for LeadingAge PA, which represents non-profit nursing homes, spoke against a proposal for all nursing home deaths to be referred to the county coroner. The proposal sprang from deaths which may have been the result of poor care, abuse or neglect on the part of the nursing home. She argued against the need, saying most families are present at the time of death, and said coroner involvement would pose an unnecessary and unwanted burden. She also expressed reservations about a proposal to use video cameras to monitor care, saying there should be a check to make sure the camera request comes from someone whose heart is in the right place, and, if the resident is capable of making decisions, it should be up to the resident whether to allow a camera. The industry representatives said the overall situation for nursing homes has become so dire that homes are selling to out-of-state operators or shutting down. They said were headed for a point that some parts of Pennsylvania, especially rural ones, might soon be without a local nursing home. Henry noted shes in favor of increasing the states ability to scrutinize nursing home purchases by out-of-state firms. One lawmaker who spoke on Wednesday noted that Pennsylvania and other states for decades have struggled improve nursing home care, but problems have persisted or worsened. Meanwhile, an ever greater number of people are destined to eventually need long term care. Were not blaming the employer, said the SEIUs Yarnell. Were saying, as Pennsylvanians, we have to do better. A reminder of the Golden Rule is a lecture you might think is reserved for a child, but on Wednesday, members of Pennsylvanias House of Representatives received a scolding about their behavior. In a rare moment at the end of Wednesdays session, House Republican Leader Bryan Cutler and Democratic Leader Frank Dermody came together at a podium at the front of the chamber to respond to a series of incidents involving House members in recent weeks and months that have given the chamber a bad look. People expect better from us," said Cutler of Lancaster County. The House has endured a string of controversies this year. Rep. Brian Sims, D-Philadelphia, last week berated a woman protesting abortion outside a Philadelphia clinic. After receiving heated criticism, Sims later vowed to do better. Rep. Stephanie Borowicz, R-Clinton County, this week was caught by Raging Chicken blogger Sean Kitchen taking a selfie at a gun rights rally at the Capitol with members of the American Guard, which the Southern Poverty Law Center classifies as a hate group and the Anti-Defamation League has labelled an extremist group. House Speaker Mike Turzai, R-Allegheny County, made a statement at an anti-abortion event in Dauphin County in March that some construed as comparing abortion rights advocates to the Nazi regime although his spokeswoman says it was taken out of context. Rep. Danielle Friel Otten, D-Chester County, drew media attention in late April after engaging in a Twitter exchange with a group representing pipeline workers over how protesters, who she defended, were preventing workers from doing their jobs. She wrote in the now-deleted tweet, The Nazis were just doing their jobs too. Also worthy of mention are the sexual assault allegations against former Rep. Brian Ellis, a Butler County Republican, which led to his resignation in March, and a DUI charge filed in January against Rep. C. Tedd Nesbit for having a blood-alcohol level more than twice the states legal limit. In the wake of complaints about those and other members behavior, leaders apparently had had enough. Cutler urged members to reflect on William Penns words about his vision for Pennsylvania as displayed around the top of the Capitol Rotunda as he recited them: There may be room there for such a holy experiment. For the nations want a precedent. And my God will make it the seed of a nation. That an example may be set up to the nations. That an example may be set up to the nations. That we may do the thing that is truly wise and just. Cutler said, Penns words rang true in the 1680s and they are still true today. There is no room for hate in any form in this chamber or in our own lives. People of Pennsylvania expect better from us. And weve all promised to serve the people of our commonwealth to the best of each of our abilities. Dermody, D-Allegheny County, immediately followed. He first noted that the spirited nature of the debate over a procedural matter involving an amendment to a controversial bill to ban abortions of fetuses diagnosed with Down syndrome that preceded the lecture. Thats the way it should be but we need to respect and we all should respect the views of all Pennsylvanians and we need to respect each other. To do anything different does nothing to further the mission we share of improving the lives of Pennsylvanians, he said. The attention-grabbing antics of late by some House members include last months polarizing prayer offered by Borowicz, a conservative Christian, on swearing-in day for Rep. Movita Johnson-Harrell, the states first Muslim woman representative. In light of such moments, Dermody said, The nation is watching this chamber." "Lets work in a way that will not only accomplish great things for the commonwealth, lets work in a way that makes sense for our constituents and make our constituents proud of the people theyve sent here. Dermodys spokesman Bill Patton said the leaders felt it was important to join forces to underline the importance of respectful civil discourse. Cutlers spokesman Mike Straub said a large number of people contacted House leaders about the recent behavior of House members. Both leaders agreed to speak together to remind all members of the responsibility of upholding the public trust in how they act both on and off the floor," Straub said. Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy. Start your day in the know. Sign up for Good Morning, Pennsylvania. Locking doors and installing security cameras to make schools safer to prevent tragedies like the latest one that happened in Colorado on Tuesday are important but some lawmakers say school building modifications alone are not enough. Addressing student wellness issues to improve student learning and address students social and emotional problems early on are just as critical. In a 14-bill Beyond Safe Schools package spearheaded by a group of Democratic lawmakers, they are calling for funding for schools to hire more school nurses, counselors, social workers, and librarians and a myriad of other initiatives aimed at creating a safer and healthier school environment. The bills were unveiled at a Capitol news conference on Wednesday that also brought out Pennsylvania State Education Association President Rich Askey who threw the unions backing behind them. These bills put a focus on something that has been needed to be focused on, he said. Rep. Dan Miller, D-Allegheny County, noted that many schools used their share of the $70 million historic school safety investment included in this years state budget to make physical improvements to their buildings and hire school police officers. But superintendents and school directors he has spoken with say they also need sustained funding to pay for social workers, counselors, and other professionals to provide services that go beyond what a teacher can offer students in a classroom. The sound is deafening, Miller said. They are asking for state support across the board in these areas. Many of those positions were lost in the fallout from the 2011-12 state funding cuts to schools. He said this package of bills seek to reverse those cuts and support kids at every level. Rep. Jim Roebuck, D-Philadelphia, is offering a bill to reduce the student-to-school nurse ratio from the current 1500 to 1 to 750 to 1. Helping students cope with various problems, with drug and alcohol issues, with teen pregnancy, with school violence. While not traditionally thought of as part of school nurse duties, they are very much more common for the job as it has evolved dramatically over recent years, said Roebuck, the ranking Democrat on the House Education Committee. Rep. Mike Sturla, D-Lancaster County, has a bill to bolster funding to schools that serve students who are chronically absent, homeless and in foster care to provide support services to them. He also is seeking a study to establish a way for schools to measure the number of students experiencing adverse childhood experiences and trauma in their lives and provide additional funding for social workers and psychologists to support them. Those are the types of things that we need to be able to address in the schools and not wait until we have a tragedy like we just saw in Colorado, Sturla said. Among other bills in the package are ones that increase training requirements for school police officers and security officers; requiring each school building to have at least one certified librarian; and educating students to appreciate others cultural differences. Some of the bills in the package would require a serious injection of funding to bring to fruition, but not all of them, Miller said. Mandating pediatricians to do depression screenings, and reporting to the states Office of Safe Schools the number of suicides and attempted suicides on school grounds are examples of initiatives that wouldnt cost much, he said. The same goes for teaching about bullying prevention and cultural diversity, which may require some tweaking of the curriculum but not a lot of money. Whatever the initial investment, Sturla said there would be savings in the long-run from reduced costs in the areas of health care, special education and criminal justice. Were not talking about tens of billions of dollars here, but were getting tens of billions of dollars in return and improving peoples lives, he said. In most counties across Pennsylvania, voters will have the opportunity on May 21 to vote for their next district attorney. But while most people are unaware of the powerful role that district attorneys play in our criminal justice system. Probably even fewer people are aware that district attorneys are elected officials, accountable to their constituents just like any other politician. You can take it from me how important and vast the powers of the district attorney are. In 1979, I was wrongfully convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. I was only 14 years old. At sentencing, my judge pleaded with the district attorney to cut a deal for a lesser sentence considering my age and that an eyewitness had confirmed under oath that I was not on the scene of the crime. But the district attorney had his conviction and that was all that mattered. Fast-forward 33 years to 2012 when the United States Supreme Court ruled that sentencing juveniles to mandatory life without parole was unconstitutional in Miller v. Alabama. Once the Supreme Court decision was handed down, Pennsylvania district attorneys had a choice. They could start reviewing juvenile life without parole cases in the commonwealth and release or re-sentence people like myself who qualified for such a review. But thats not the choice they made. Instead Pennsylvanias district attorneys fought tooth and nail to keep people like me locked up. They successfully convinced the state legislature and the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania that the Miller decision should not be applied retroactively in the commonwealth. It was only when the U.S. Supreme Court intervened a second time that I finally had my chance at freedom. Finally, after five years of legal battles, I was released in 2017 after 37 and a half years in prison. My case, like so many others, illustrates the immense power that the district attorney has at virtually every step of criminal justice proceedings. Remember, at my sentencing, it was the district attorney who refused to deal with the judge, who made very clear his reservations about sending a 14-year-old child to prison for life. It was the district attorneys who stood in the way of implementing the Supreme Court decision that kept me locked up five years longer than I might have been. Today, Im ostensibly a free man. But the decisions that the district attorney made 37 years ago still haunt me everyday. Choosing to charge me with murder, even as the presiding judge pleaded with the DA for a lesser charge, means a stigma will follow me for the rest of my life: murderer. That means that even today, every job I apply for, every apartment I look at renting, I am cursed with the district attorneys inaccurate and unfair label. Murderer. Most people dont realize that the district attorney has so much power, let alone that the district attorney is an elected official, accountable to the voters and the community. But turnout in district attorney elections is typically abysmal; and thats just the way the sitting DAs like it. This year, we need to show up and make our voice heard in the May 21 primary elections and again in November and have a say in who our next district attorney is. After all, my story could easily be your story; your childs story; your parents story. Id prefer it that nobody has to go through what I endured. But far too often, that outcome is up to the district attorney. Make a plan to go vote May 21. Ricky Olds, volunteer leader with ACLU-PAs Campaign for Smart Justice. Mothers can be a powerful force, especially if they feel their children are in danger. Dont get between a mama bear and her cubs, for your own sake. The mothers of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in American are proving to be just as fierce in their fight against the gun violence they see threatening their babies. These good mothers believe their children are in extreme danger from gun violence -- at home, on the streets and in schools. Theyre alarmed at the rate of suicides and accidental deaths involving guns and claiming the lives of too many youths. Danielle Prokopchak, who lives in the Harrisburg area, joined Moms Demand Action after a close call with a gun in her own home. The alarm is evident in her voice as she describes the day a loaded gun fell from a friends pocket onto her floor and spun around for several paralyzing seconds. It stopped with the barrel pointed directly at her baby. That did it for me, she said. Prokopchak has been working to combat gun violence as part of the national team of mothers committed to lobbying for what they call common sense gun laws. One of the gun laws Moms Demand Action supports is pretty common sense, and it has bipartisan support from state legislators. It would temporarily take guns away from people who are openly suicidal or who have directly threatened to hurt people. People in attendance applaud after the Pittsburgh City Council voted 6-3 to pass gun-control legislation, Tuesday, April 2, 2019, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)AP Senate Bill 90, known as the Extreme Risk Protection Order Bill (ERPO), would provide the legal mechanism to take guns away from those who are dangerous to themselves or to others. House Bill 1075 would do the same. What could make more sense than taking guns away from people who are out of control and a threat to themselves and others? Right now, Prokopchak and the other mothers say Pennsylvania doesnt have a law that allows authorities to disarm people they suspect are planning to hurt someone. That makes no sense. Moms Demand Action hold common sense gun law rally at Pennsylvania state capitol in April 2019. Marybeth Christiansen, Pennsylvania state legislative lead for Moms Demand Action, led a rally last month at the capitol and reminded state legislators that two-thirds of gun deaths in the United States are suicides. An estimated 61 people take their lives each day in this country, and between 2013-17, 4,700 Pennsylvanians killed themselves with guns. Every nine hours, someone with ready access to a gun uses it to commit suicide. Keeping guns temporarily away from people who want to hurt themselves makes perfect sense, as does keeping them away from people who want to kill others. Moms Demand Action is particularly concerned about mass shootings. Christiansen says 93 percent of school shooters exhibited warning signs that could have been detected. The bill now before the state legislature would disarm those at risk of mass shootings before they act, the organization says. Pennsylvania is only the latest in a growing list of states that have decided to do something to prevent mass shootings and gun suicides. Colorado recently became the 15th state, in addition to Washington D.C., to pass legislations allowing authorities to take guns from people who are clearly dangerous. FILE - In this May 4, 2018, file photo, people in the audience wait for the start of the National Rifle Association-Institute for Legislative Action Leadership Forum at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas. The National Rifle Association is gathering for its 148th annual meeting beginning Thursday, April 25, 2019, in Indianapolis. (Smiley N. Pool/The Dallas Morning News via AP, File)AP And while the National Rifle Association opposes such legislation, many Republican and Democratic leaders are joining the call for reasonable restrictions on guns to provide sensible protections for us all. Moms Demand Action says it respects the Second Amendment. The legislation the mothers are backing simply is a tool to disarm those at risk of mass shootings before they act. Christiansen says the proposed legislation in Pennsylvania ensures due process and contains provisions to prevent abuse of the system. She says the states that have enacted similar laws are reporting a 10 percent reduction in suicide rates. Gov. Tom Wolf supports the legislation, as do many Republican and Democratic lawmakers, who see this as an opportunity to save lives without infringing upon Second Amendment rights. We agree. The mothers of Moms Demand Action have already proven to be a fierce force in getting legislation passed to take guns away from those guilty of domestic violence. They were able to get lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to see the common sense in keeping guns away from people who already have hurt people theyre supposed to love. We support their efforts to work within the legal system to take guns away from those who present a clear and present danger to us all. Heres wishing Moms Demand Action a Happy Mothers Day for doing what mothers do best protecting those they love. Sustainability might be a hot topic at the moment, but its one Ive always felt has particular relevance for the Permanent Style audience. As consumers, we care more than average about clothes. We know and we care about quality. We deliberately buy things that we think will last better. Sometimes, we even purposefully support a particular craft or industry. But on the other hand, we buy more clothes than most. When storing excess clothes is a regular topic of discussion, we cant be the most frugal or focused of consumers. So how do we fare from a sustainability point of view? And more importantly, what should we be doing better? Spurred by comments on a recent post about fur, I recently spoke to American journalist Alden Wicker about fashion and sustainability. Below is the interview, but this is only the start of more coverage of the issue on Permanent Style. There will be a separate extract just looking at animal rights, and pieces driven by engagement with the academics on this issue in the UK in the future. Permanent Style: Hi Alden. Could you start by telling me a little bit about your writing, and where you get information from? Alden Wicker (above): Sure. Im a journalist here in the United States, writing largely about sustainable fashion. My site, EcoCult, has been going since 2013, and was partly spurred by the collapse of the Rana Plaza garment factory in Bangladesh. A lot has happened since then. The topic has grown wider, gained more attention, and many companies have started to track sustainability through their supply chain - the ones under the Kering Group in particular. I interview experts and academics, but actually there is a surprising lack of original research on this topic. Its often pigeonholed as something just relevant to womens fast fashion, and not that central to debate about the environment in general. In fact a lot of the information about sustainable fashion on the internet is not true - if you try to track it down to its source, its just people repeating what someone else has written. Even the UN often repeats these facts, rather than doing their own research. There is a new group in New York now though, called the New Standard Institute. Hopefully they will improve matters. I think you understand the typical Permanent Style reader and what theyre buying: wool tailoring, cotton shirts, leather shoes, largely made in Europe but with raw materials often from elsewhere. Can we break down how sustainable and environmentally friendly the different items are? Sure. The first thing to say is probably that by buying things made in Europe, rather than Asia for example, the clothing is more environmentally friendly. Everything made in the EU is governed by the REACH guidelines, which cover things like chemicals that can be used and how they are disposed of. But that wont affect the raw materials if theyre coming from elsewhere? No it wont. And Italy is particularly bad at allowing goods to be largely made in another country, finished in Italy, and then stamped as Made in Italy. So thats not much guidance. But if you know the leather youre buying was tanned in Italy or France, for example, then it does guarantee something. You know that heavy metals like chromium are not going into the water supply, in the way they are in other countries. So a good rule of thumb is that the more of the product is made in the EU, the better it is likely to be in this regard? Yes. There are exceptions, but thats a good place to start. And the raw materials are particularly important because they will do the most damage. Among the materials we mentioned earlier - wool, leather, cotton - which are the best and worst for sustainability? Well taking them one at a time, wool is a great material. Its biodegradable, it can be farmed in an ethical way, and often its very sustainable in its environment. Most Italian suiting will use wool that comes from Australia, and theyre pretty good in this regard. [We will set animal rights aside for the moment, and deal with those in a separate article.] There is a movement in the US at the moment around regenerative farming which is trying to treat anything like a sheep or cow like another hooved animal - like a bison, perhaps. Allowing it to roam freer, and to take part in the maintenance of a sustainable environment. How does an animal do that? By grazing the land, by pooping on the soil, by walking on it which helps aerate and draw carbon down into the earth. All the normal things wild animals would have done. Patagonia as a company is doing a lot in this area and will be making things from regenerative wool, sold and registered as such. It sounds like how most sheep farming is done in the UK, and a lot in Australia too. Its free-range farming, rather than anything mass-farmed or done in cages. Exactly. There are other specific requirements to call it regenerative, like pasture rotation, but any raw product made in this general manner is extremely sustainable. Good news for the British mill trade. The best thing you could buy might be cloth woven in Britain, from British sheep. In general wool seems very good though - largely because the raw material is coming from these highly regulated countries. How about cashmere, how does that compare? Cashmere is very different. Theres just too much cheap, destructive cashmere coming out of China, and its leading to desertification. There are better producers of course, but if youre buying cheap cashmere from Uniqlo, youre not helping. Is there a way to know whether cashmere comes from more sustainable sources? Not really, no, but the price is often a good indicator. You just cant mass produce the more expensive cashmere. It takes more time and attention, you cant overcomb the animals and so on. Buy from heritage companies that have been buying good cashmere for a long time. However, I would suggest to your readers that rather than go for cashmere, they could look to vicuna or guanaco. There are four South American camelids (the other two being llama and alpaca) and theyre all very well farmed. They roam over large areas, and theyre often farmed by indigenous peoples too. I guess vicuna is often too expensive for people. Yes, and it deserves to be expensive for its qualities - its lighter, softer and more insulating than cashmere. But the way its farmed also makes it more sustainable. If vicuna is too expensive, then they could try guanaco (below). Its essentially the same as vicuna, its just hard to get out of Argentina and doesnt have the marketing power of Loro Piana. Some Italian companies even mix guanaco into vicuna because its cheaper, but no one can notice the difference unless they look at it under a microscope. I know cotton production has led to lots of issues with desertification as well, mostly in central Asia. But do the same points about mass manufacture apply here too? Is luxury cotton more sustainable because it cant be produced in the same quantities? Yes, cotton has big issues with water use and pesticides, and in general those smaller, luxury productions will be better. Egyptian and Pima cotton are good, for example. Organic cotton would be even better. How about leather? The first thing to know about leather is there are no good alternatives. There are some in the pipeline, which luxury companies are excited about, but really the only alternatives are plastics. PVC is quite toxic, polyurethane is just a plastic, others are better but theyre pretty much all made with petrochemicals and not biodegradable. So I just don't think it's worth looking at the alternatives. Also the best thing about leather is that it will last you forever. You can wear and repair it, for year and years and years. And of course thats always the most sustainable thing you can do: buy something and wear it forever. Leather can do that. Tanning isnt very environmentally friendly, is it? No, its a very intensive process. Traditional tanning uses chromium and other extremely toxic substances. And if its tanned in Morocco, say, or India or Pakistan, its likely that the effluence is just dumped into the waterways. People who live near the tanneries in Bangladesh have a life expectancy of around 45 years. There is vegetable tanning and wet-white tanning, which are better, but they dont tend to be used on leather jackets, more on shoes and on satchels. Fortunately Permanent Style readers are fairly obsessive about the natural ageing of veg-tanned leather, so thats another bonus. Yes that helps. And as I said, tanning in the EU is always better - even in Turkey, which has its own version of REACH. The separate issue with leather is the raw material, and here I think its important to make a distinction. Cows are not raised for their leather. Theyre raised for their meat, and leather is about 5% of the value of the cow. So if you stop buying leather, there wont be fewer cows. Is that the case for really high-end leathers, like we might be dealing with? Calf, lambskin, goat etc? No, those are raised for their leather. Its a tiny part of the market, but theyre raised for leather. OK, so a strike against us there - most of the leather for our shoes will be calf. How about exotics, are they similar in being raised for their skins? Actually, exotics are a whole other area. Theres a lot of misinformation here. There was a good op-ed in the Business of Fashion about this recently, actually, following Chanels decision to stop selling exotics. A group of conservationists pointed out that a lot of exotics are farmed by indigenous peoples, who use them as a way to make money from preserving wild areas. If that income is taken away, they have to turn to other uses for the land, like mining, logging or other activities. [This is an area we'll cover in our second piece, on fur. It suffers from some of the same issues, just more intensively.] It sounds like a more sensible approach is that taken by other fashion houses - to continually put pressure on producers to farm as ethically as possible. And on the point of farming animals, is that not very sustainable? There could certainly be animal rights objections, but from a pure sustainability point of view, those farms are producing and then killing the animals - there is no depletion of populations, no overuse of natural resources? Yes, thats true. You just need to add ethical treatment to that and youre on the right lines. I remember going to a crocodile farm in Australia, run by an Aboriginal group, and watching the animals all swimming around the creeks and rivers that criss-crossed the property. By the way, theres a surfeit of leather on the market at the moment, because everyones buying trainers, which are largely plastic. Some companies are making trainers from recycled plastic, and there are ones using merino wool, but theyre small. On the subject of companies that offer more sustainable products - how do you think customers should treat them? Theres a tendency to be quite cynical. People should question what they do, certainly. But the biggest way to enact change is often to reward those companies. Its what drives the capitalist model: buy that type of product and theyll make more of it. Theres a nice phrase about that: Those that care dont shop, and those that shop dont care. Exactly. Like Ralph Lauren has a new Earth Polo on sale at the moment. You could be quite cynical about that being a tiny part of production, and just a PR stunt. But there will be people looking carefully at how that sells. If it does well, next time there might a full range, then the next year a full brand. Companies are set up to monitor demand and respond to it. Yes, and use every chance to tell the company what youre doing. Tell the sales associate, fill in a feedback form. I had a friend that worked at a large consumer company, and they told me how some feedback on sustainability was passed up the chain - often managers want to make a difference, they just need a commercial reason to do so. Weve often commented on the website that ethical aims can be conflicting: cotton might use more water, but alternatives might create more carbon. How do you feel about this area? To be honest, I dont think people should worry too much about it. They shouldnt agonise over which ethical aspect to care more about. Just by making an ethical choice - with any aim - is a big step, and puts you ahead of the vast majority of consumers. Buy Fair-Trade or buy local, theyre both positive choices. As a final point, do Permanent Style readers do well on sustainability because many things are made to order? So there is no stock, no wastage? Absolutely, thats a big point. The fashion industry is very wasteful when it comes to seasonal collections that need to be replaced, things being wasted or thrown away. Overall, having things made to order and just consuming less is the most important thing. Most of the problems with the fashion industry are from mass production: making things at scale so they can be as cheap as possible. Avoid that and youre doing very well. Thanks Alden. There are clearly areas of improvement, but Permanent Style readers will probably be quite reassured by this. Buying better products, often to order, and looking after them well. I agree. I dont think many consumers think about it anywhere near this hard, either, so thats very positive. Alden Wicker is a writer and founder of the website EcoCult.com She has contributed to several magazines including NewsWeek, and travelled the world looking at sustainable environmental practices. There will be a further part of this interview looking just at fur and animal rights soon. And more coverage on sustainability, including debate on film. In the meantime, here are some other resources: The UK Parliament inquiry into sustainability and fashion. London College of Fashions Centre for Sustainable Fashion. Alden on wool, cotton and leather. Health official: Omicron 'likely more spread than we're aware of' Free tickets to performances at the Kimmel Center and other arts venues will be a new perk for employees at Penn Medicine and Drexel University through the new Philadelphia Cultural Pass program. Read more Employees of Penn Medicine and Drexel University will gain special access to events at several of the citys arts and culture groups under a pilot program, both institutions announced Wednesday. The Philadelphia Cultural Pass will provide free tickets to any of the roughly 40,000 Penn Medicine and 6,800 Drexel employees working full-time or more than half-time, said Ralph W. Muller, CEO of the University of Pennsylvania Health System. People who work in places like Penn and Drexel are predisposed to going to arts and culture, so this is a natural fit, said Muller, adding that tickets will be free to anyone from the worker delivering food trays in the hospital to the neurologist. The program, he said, would evolve to include more partners, but at the moment the supporting institutions are Penn Medicine and Drexel, which will provide operating funds to the Philadelphia Orchestra, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Kimmel Center. The Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is also a partner. The details of which Kimmel Center events would be free to Penn and Drexel employees remain to be worked out, said a Kimmel spokesperson. But the intention was that it would include Kimmel Center Presents concerts, jazz and theater residency program performances, Broadway Philadelphia, and Philadanco, she said. It was unclear Wednesday which of the Kimmels resident companies besides the orchestra and Philadanco might eventually be participating. Spokespersons for the Philly Pops, Philadelphia Chamber Music Society, Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Opera Philadelphia, and Pennsylvania Ballet said they had not been told of the program. We have not been approached about the Philadelphia Cultural Pass pilot program, but it sounds like a great initiative, and we would welcome a conversation about partnering with Penn Medicine and Drexel University, said Opera Philadelphia vice president Frank Luzi. Spokespersons for some of the other companies said they would also be interested in discussing participation. In addition to individuals taking advantage of the free tickets, Muller said he expected special events would bring organized employee groups to participating arts and culture venues. Muller, who is also on the board of the Philadelphia Orchestra, stressed that the pilot might change over time. Programs that distribute free tickets tend to result in lower actual turnout of attendees, for instance, and if that proved to be the case here, a modest charge for tickets might be instituted, he said. He declined to detail how much money would go from Penn and Drexel to participating arts groups. The amount would depend on how many employees ended up participating, he said. Details on how employees will obtain free tickets are also in the works. Orchestra president Matias Tarnopolsky said that hoped the program would gain new sponsors, as well as more arts-groups participants. The better the access to the arts, the better it is for all of us," he said. "I hope it will grow quickly over the next few years. New Delhi: IndiGo is in talks with Airbus SE for another large plane order in a sign Asia's biggest budget carrier has no intention of letting up on a blistering pace of expansion. The budget airline, which adds an aircraft to its fleet every week, is in discussions to buy a longer-range version of the European planemaker's newest narrow-body jet, according to Chief Executive Officer Ronojoy Dutta. Existing orders will see IndiGo through the next two years, Dutta said in an interview with Bloomberg News. After that, the carrier is considering adding new planes, including Airbus's long-distance A321neo LR and the yet-to-be-released A321 XLR, he said. "When we order, we'll order in bulk for sure," Dutta said in New Delhi in his first interview since becoming CEO of the airline in January. "I can't give you a tentative number, but it will be large. We need longer range." Though Dutta didn't specify the size of IndiGo's next purchase, it's likely to be a multi-billion-dollar order based on the company's history. Its smallest order so far was for 100 A320 jets in 2005 worth $6 billion at list prices at the time. Given that the most-basic variant of the A320neo family today carry sticker prices of more than $100 million each, a large order could exceed $10 billion. Operated by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, IndiGo is one of the few Indian carriers with enough cash to aggressively expand, and it's been mapping out a way to build a long-haul, low-cost business to take passengers from places like New Delhi to London. The carrier has managed to consistently make money even as domestic rivals struggle under a fierce fares war and the world's priciest jet fuel - partly because it commits to large plane orders to cap costs. Founded in 2005 by former US Airways CEO Rakesh Gangwal and former travel agent Rahul Bhatia, IndiGo has quickly outpaced all its rivals to grab almost half of the local market, making both founders billionaires. At more than $8.6 billion, the market value of Indigo's parent is almost double Air France-KLM's and ahead of Singapore Airlines Ltd, but Dutta isn't satisfied. "There are a lot of airlines ahead of us," he said. "We would like to be one of the biggest, largest, profitable airlines in the world." Dutta was previously the President of United Airlines, where he worked for nearly 20 years. A Harvard graduate, Dutta was also the President of budget carrier Air Sahara for two years before it was sold to Jet Airways. IndiGo shares have gained about 33 per cent in the past 12 months. IndiGo has specialised in buying in bulk, ordering 430 jets in the A320neo family on top of an initial contract for 100 older A320 models. That's made IndiGo one of the biggest buyers of Airbus's best-selling plane. Such large-scale orders help airlines negotiate discounts and better maintenance terms. "One of the things that's key to our success is keeping the fleet cost down, and fleet cost is only down when you order in bulk," Dutta said. While IndiGo has so far confined past orders to Airbus, it hasn't ruled out buying Boeing Co. jets in the future. And the order being discussed with Airbus hasn't been final-ised. IndiGo is also in talks with CFM International, a venture between GEC and France's Safran SA, in add-ition to Pratt & Whitney. Bloomberg FILE - In this Oct. 19, 2005, file photo, steam billows from two active cooling towers of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in Middletown, Pa. The owner of Three Mile Island, site of the United States' worst commercial nuclear power accident, is acknowledging in a Wednesday, May 8, 2019, statement that it is unlikely to get a financial rescue from Pennsylvania and says it plans to go through with a shutdown starting June 1. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File) Read more Exelon Generation on Wednesday acknowledged that a proposed $500 million Pennsylvania nuclear rescue had failed to win sufficient support for passage and said that the company will move forward, as promised, to shut down its money-losing Three Mile Island reactor this fall. Today is a difficult day for our employees, who were hopeful that state policymakers would support valuing carbon-free nuclear energy the same way they value other forms of clean energy in time to save TMI from a premature closure, Bryan Hanson, Exelon senior vice president and chief nuclear officer, said in a statement. The plant, which employs about 700 people near Harrisburg and produces a significant amount of the states carbon-free electricity, will shut down Sept. 30. The closure deals a financial blow to the municipality where it is the biggest employer, and taxpayer, and could derail Pennsylvanias plans to aggressively cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2025. State Sen. Ryan Aument (R., Lancaster) a co-chair of the Nuclear Caucus and co-sponsor of the legislation, also threw in the towel Wednesday on saving Exelons Unit 1 reactor. Unfortunately, it is clear at this point in time that there is not sufficient support to advance a proposal in time to preserve TMI," Aument said in a statement. This is just a tough blow, devastating, said John Levengood, president of Electricians Local 777 in Middletown, which represents about 280 reactor workers. Its a sad day for the state of Pennsylvania, honestly. Despicable. It didnt even come up for a vote. Gov. Tom Wolf, who had not declared a position on the controversial nuclear rescue package, said in a statement that he was disappointed to learn of Exelons announcement and promised to support workers and the community surrounding the Dauphin County power plant. While I understand the operator is working to offer internal positions to these workers, we will not spare our resources to provide assistance to those who will be impacted. he said. Exelon Generation, which is headquartered in Kennett Square, successfully engineered state rescues in Illinois, New York and New Jersey, but not in Pennsylvania, which hosts the nations second-largest nuclear fleet behind Illinois. In the face of a growing number of nuclear plant closures in America, the sponsors of Pennsylvanias rescue had worked two years to cobble together a tenuous coalition of support. But the legislation fell flat almost immediately upon introduction, opposed by consumer advocates, some environmentalists, and the states natural gas industry, a deep-pocketed rival that also has substantial political clout. The legislation would add a surcharge to customers bills to steer as much as $541 million of subsidies to clean-energy power producers, primarily nuclear generators. But most of the states five nuclear power plants are profitable, and opponents derided the rescue as a bailout that would weaken competitive power markets. PJM Interconnection, the operator of the regional power grid, said the transmission system could withstand the loss of several reactors without imperiling reliability. But Three Mile Islands closure will increase the states emissions of greenhouse gases. Unit 1 produces more zero-carbon electricity than all the states wind, solar and hydro plants combined, and it will likely be replaced by power produced from combusting natural gas, experts say. Exelon acquired Unit 1 in 1999, two decades after the infamous nuclear accident that destroyed its twin in the nations worst commercial accident. The damaged reactor, owned by FirstEnergy Corp., is now dormant and its fuel removed. But it awaits a full decommissioning in tandem with the shutdown of Exelons plant. Eric Epstein, chairman of Three Mile Island Alert, a Harrisburg nuclear watchdog group, said attention will now be aimed at pressuring Three Mile Islands two owners to accelerate decommissioning, rather than taking six decades to complete the task, as Exelon announced last month. Were at the point of no return," Epstein said. "The plant is going to shut down. We need to clean up the site. Exelon placed a June 1 deadline for the legislature to act on a nuclear rescue because the company needs advance notice to either order new uranium fuel to be installed this fall, or to schedule workers to begin shutting the plant down. With only three legislative session days remaining in May, the prospect of passage was fast disappearing. Although we see strong support in Harrisburg and throughout Pennsylvania to reduce carbon emissions and maintain the environmental and economic benefits provided by nuclear energy, we dont see a path forward for policy changes before the June 1 fuel purchasing deadline for TMI, said Kathleen Barron, Exelon senior vice president, government and regulatory affairs and public policy. Exelon announced in 2017 that the station would prematurely shut down, absent financial support, because of economic challenges and market flaws that fail to recognize the benefits from the states zero-carbon nuclear energy plants. Largest employer Three Mile Island is the largest employer, and largest taxpayer, in Londonderry Township, which began belt-tightening efforts two years ago in anticipation of the plants possible closure. Still, Wednesdays announcement was a blow, said Steve Letavic, the township manager. Were heartbroken, he said. We know these people. Theyre our neighbors. They were never a nameless, faceless corporation. Look around, whenever a big employer shuts down, theres a devastating regional impact,," said Letavic. "Theres no viable industry in Pennsylvania that is coming forward to replace 675 good-paying jobs. Three Mile Island and other single-unit nuclear power stations are 22 percent more expensive to operate than multi-unit sites, such as Exelons Limerick and Peach Bottom plants, according to the Nuclear Energy Institute. Many of the reactors across the nation slated for early retirement are single-unit plants, such as Exelons Oyster Creek Generating Station in New Jersey, which shut down last year. Wednesdays decision will not end the nuclear debate in Pennsylvania. FirstEnergy has announced it plans to retire its twin-unit Beaver Valley Power Station in Western Pennsylvania in 2020 and 2021. But the industry has warned that the economic pressures will continue to mount on the industry. Make no mistake, these pressures will soon be felt by all of the other nuclear plants across Pennsylvania, and unfortunately Exelons announcement only serves to reinforce that conclusion," said Aument, who promised to continue to work on a better solution. Nuclear supporters argue that the industry is a big employer in Pennsylvania and that the industry produces 93 percent of the states zero-carbon electricity. The closure of the Three Mile Island plant will make it more challenging to meet Wolfs goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 26 percent by 2025, from 2005 levels. I still believe it is essential to continue this important conversation about preserving and growing Pennsylvanias carbon-free energy footprint," the governor said in his statement. "I remain hopeful that a consensus on a path forward can be reached in the coming weeks. FILE - This April 20, 2016, file photo shows the Salt Lake Tribune in Salt Lake City. The Salt Lake Tribune has announced plans to become a nonprofit as it moves toward a nontraditional model that it hopes will ensure long term stability after years of financial struggles. Salt Lake Tribune editor Jennifer Napier-Pearce said Wednesday, May 8, 2019, the move is aimed at finding a better way to fund the newspaper's operations because declines in advertising and circulation revenues that have plagued the industry seem irreversible. Read more SALT LAKE CITY (AP) The Salt Lake Tribune announced plans Wednesday to become a nonprofit as it moves toward a nontraditional model that it hopes will ensure long-term stability after years of financial struggles fueled by declines in advertising and circulation revenues. The plan for the Utah newspaper that won a Pulitzer Prize in 2017 would have similarities to setups at The Inquirer and the Tampa Bay Times, which are both owned by nonprofit foundations. The Tribune's wealthy publisher, Paul Huntsman, told the staff Tuesday, and the newspaper published a story Wednesday. Huntsman purchased the newspaper in 2016, leading to a period of increased stability after the newspaper had dealt with staff reductions and feared closure under the previous owner. But one-third of the staff was laid off last year as the financial hardships emerged again. Jennifer Napier-Pearce, editor of the Salt Lake Tribune, said the current financial model is broken with revenue declines looking irreversible. "You got to try something. If you just let the future wash over you, we're going to go out of business. So that's just not acceptable," Napier-Pearce said. "Print is not dead. But it's dying, so you've got to find some other piece to prop up the stool. That third piece is going to be philanthropy." The newspaper plays an important role in the state as the largest independent news outlet. The other large newspaper in the state, the Deseret News, is owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The majority of the states lawmakers and about two-thirds of the states residents are member of the faith. The newspaper requested permission from the Internal Revenue Service to convert from a for-profit business to a nonprofit, Napier-Pearce said. Additionally, the Tribune plans to create a separate journalism foundation to support independent journalism in the state, she said. Both are expected to be up and running early 2020. Napier-Pearce said that the newspaper cant seek donations yet, but that early conversations over the last nine months reveal significant interest locally and nationally to support the model. Newspaper analyst Ken Doctor predicted the model's viability will depend on local support in Utah, and it would be greatly aided if the Huntsman family or another wealthy family or community foundation kicked it off with a sizable endowment. H.F. Gerry Lenfest, the owner of The Inquirer, the Daily News, and Philly.com, in 2016 turned the company over to a nonprofit now called the Lenfest Institute for Journalism and gave a $20 million endowment to get it started. The newspapers are run as a public benefit company, which is not itself a nonprofit. That helped the Inquirer, though the newspaper still isnt bathing in funding, Doctor said. "There's not national money for ongoing support of newspapers," Doctor said. "There's money for models and experimentation, but there's not money for ongoing support. That's got to come locally." The setup in Philadelphia has helped The Inquirer double the size of its investigative news team to 14 people, led to investments in new technology, and funded a fellowship for digital journalists from diverse backgrounds, said Jim Friedlich, chief executive of the Lenfest Institute. The institute has doubled the initial $20 million thanks to support from the Knight Foundation, Facebook, and Google, among others, he said. The institute supports journalism efforts in Philadelphia and nationally. Huntsman and his team came to visit the institute to learn about their experience, Friedlich said. "The business of local news has become extremely challenging at precisely the moment when our communities and our democracy need it more," Friedlich said in a texted statement. "Salt Lake is part of a larger trend. There's no question that more local news organization owners will seek to convert these important civic assets into community trusts, foundations or non-profits." Last year's layoffs at the Salt Lake Tribune were the fourth round of layoffs since 2011. Napier-Pearce hopes the new model signals a brighter future. It means stability, we hope, sustainability for the future, Napier-Pearce said. Weve been around for 150 years. We want to be around for at least that long on the back end. In a new memoir, rapper and actor Common details how working on a Narberth-born filmmakers HBO film helped him uncover memories of being molested as a child. As Common explains in the book, Let Love Have the Last Word, he was not consciously aware of the incident until about two years ago. At the time, he was working on a scene for Narberth native Jennifer Foxs The Tale with star Laura Dern. Released by HBO last year, The Tale examines the circumstances of Foxs first sexual experience, which the veteran documentary filmmaker, 59, says happened with a much older man when she was 13. It was not until later in life that she was able to perceive this experience as non-consensual. Talking through the script, Common writes in his memoir, caused old memories of the molestation to come to mind. I caught my breath and just kept looping the memories over and over, like rewinding an old VHS tape, Common writes in the memoir. I said, Laura, I think I was abused. Common, 47, goes on to explain that his molestation occurred when he was about 9 or 10 years old while he was growing up in his hometown of Chicago. At the time of the alleged abuse, he was on a trip to his aunts home in Cleveland, and was made to sleep in a bed with a relative of his godbrothers, whom he refers to as Brandon. At some point I felt Brandons hand on me. I pushed him away. I dont remember saying a whole lot besides No, no no, Common writes. He later adds that I felt a deep and sudden shame for what happened. In order to cope with the abuse, Common writes that he buried the memory of the incident and pushed the whole thing out of my head. Prior to the release of Let Love Have the Last Word, he had not spoken about the incident, but says he has forgiven his accused abuser. I want to be a person who helps break cycles of violence, Common writes. This is love in action and I intend to practice it. As Fox told Inquirer television critic Ellen Gray last year, her experience with abuse was similarly difficult to discuss. Ordinarily a documentarian, Fox retold her story with HBO as a work of fiction. Because no one would ever talk. Theres no evidence. And also what the film really about is memory, and the construction of self. And thats all imagination, Fox said. So I never, ever thought of making this a documentary. However, with the rise of the #MeToo movement and what happened with [disgraced film executive] Harvey Weinstein, who has faced allegations of abuse from dozens of women, in 2017, Fox said she felt people were ready to have a deeper conversation about abuse." When they saw The Tale, they said, This is tough, but we have to talk tough, Fox said. A year before, I think it would be, I think this is too tough. Commons Let Love Have the Last Word is out now. Actress Marcia Cross has been in remission from anal cancer for about a year. She's pictured at Stand Up To Cancer 2016 held at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, California. Read more Now that actress Marcia Cross has been in remission from anal cancer for about a year, she has a mission. I want to help put a dent in the stigma around anal cancer, the former Desperate Housewives star, 57, recently told People magazine. Ive read a lot of cancer survivor stories and many people women, especially were too embarrassed to say what kind of cancer they had. There is a lot of shame about it. I want it to stop. Cross, who was diagnosed in November 2017, is not the first celebrity to say we need to get over our squeamishness. Actress Farrah Fawcett made a documentary about her harrowing struggle before anal cancer ended her life in 2009. But Cross is speaking out at an opportune juncture. While cancer of the anus the short canal at the end of the rectum through which solid waste leaves the body remains fairly rare, it has been steadily increasing for several decades, and far more women than men develop it. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 5,530 women and 2,770 men will be diagnosed this year; about 760 women and 520 men will die. In response to this alarming trend, leading experts specialists in oncology, pathology, gynecology, infectious diseases, and more believe its time to start screening some women for anal cancer. There are no accepted screening guidelines because, well, its complicated. The average woman has a tiny lifetime risk of anal cancer (two in 100,000), so figuring out which women to check, and the best way to do it, is full of dilemmas, as the experts explained in their 2016 paper, Screening for Anal Cancer in Women. We dont want to spend a lot of testing resources, and create a lot of anxiety, in low-risk groups of women, said senior author Joel M. Palefsky, an infectious disease physician and anal cancer expert at the University of California-San Francisco. But there is something that low-risk women can do to be vigilant. Mysterious vulnerabilities To better understand why screening all women doesnt make sense, consider the cause of 90 percent of anal cancers: the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a ubiquitous family of sexually transmitted viruses that live in cells on the surface of the anus, cervix, vagina, vulva, penis, mouth, and throat. Although the immune system wipes out most infections with nary a symptom, persistent infection with high-risk HPV types can initiate cancer in those organs. It should be noted that the Gardasil vaccine, recommended to be given in adolescence, prevents infection with nine high-risk types, as well as two types that cause genital warts. But the immunization remains underused and it wasnt available until 2006. This July 23, 2018 file photo shows packets of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings, in Greenfield, Mass. On Wednesday, March 20, 2019, the nations top medical advisers said medications which are proven to successfully treat opioid addiction remain vastly underused in the U.S., despite an epidemic of fatal overdoses tied to heroin, painkillers and related drugs. Read more An addiction treatment drug that health officials around the country have touted as a crucial part of the battle against the opioid epidemic is prescribed far more often to white patients. The study, authored by researchers at the University of Michigan and published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association, looked at how often patients of different races and ethnicities were prescribed the treatment drug buprenorphine at doctors visits. Getting the medicine at a doctors office is a selling point of the opioid-based treatment medication that has fewer federal regulations attached to it than methadone, which must be doled out at clinics and is more stigmatized. Patients can take buprenorphine in the privacy of their homes or doctors offices, and most patients on buprenorphine do receive the drug in office-based settings, the study authors wrote. Still, doctors need special permission to prescribe buprenorphine, something that isnt required for the opioid painkillers that may have sparked the addiction crisis. The study looked at more than 13 million doctors visits in which buprenorphine was prescribed between 2012 and 2015, and found that 12.7 million of those visits were by white patients, compared to just 363,000 for all other races. Thats despite the fact that national surveys suggest white patients are only slightly more likely than black patients to use heroin, or to take prescription pills without a doctors direction. Patients prescribed buprenorphine were also more likely to have private insurance, or pay cash, than to have Medicaid. This held even after the Obamacare Medicaid expansion added more people to the public-insurance rolls. It makes you question whether people of lower income or those on Medicaid have equitable access to care, said Pooja Lagisetty, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan and the studys lead author. " The study didnt look at state data, and Lagisetty said its possible some states have policies in place to address racial disparities in treatment. Nor did the study examine whats behind the gap in buprenorphine prescribing. Lagisetty said the authors hope their paper spurs further research. [Buprenorphine] is offered in a traditional health-care setting, where there is a lot more flexibility about reimbursement patterns and which physicians offer it. When that flexibility exists, its hard to control whether were providing equitable treatment, she said. Our results show its been inequitable from the beginning, and these trends are persisting," even though doctors are prescribing the drug more often. The opioid crisis has been portrayed largely as affecting white Americans. But in cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C., most victims of fatal overdoses are black. In Philadelphia, though whites made up the largest share of opioid overdose deaths in 2017, deaths among blacks rose 34 percent, and deaths among Hispanics jumped 60 percent from the prior year. Were all trying to rapidly improve access to treatment," Lagisetty said. But we have to be thoughtful about really improving access to treatment for those who need it most." When it comes to health research, Coca-Cola retains the right to receive updates and comment on findings prior to research publication, as well as the power to terminate studies early without reason, according to a new study. Read more As the debate over the health impact of sweetened beverages continues, some research studies are funded by beverage makers themselves. And several clauses in contracts between Coca-Cola and health researchers at public universities in the U.S. and Canada could have allowed the soda giant to quash the findings, a new study found. While researchers did not find any firm examples of Coca-Cola suppressing unfavorable findings, study authors said that what is important is that the provision exists." The paper was published Tuesday in the Journal of Public Health Policy. The British and Italian researchers, along with the group U.S. Right to Know, were concerned about conflicts of interest in commercially funded research and any influence companies paying for such work may assert. They chose Coca-Cola as their study example and filed 129 Freedom of Information Act requests between 2015 and 2018 that generated more than 87,000 documents involving five research agreements with Louisiana State University, and the Universities of South Carolina, Toronto, and Washington. The documents showed that Coca-Cola which supports research in nutrition, physical inactivity, and energy balance did not have day-to-day control but retained rights throughout the process that included receiving updates and comments on findings prior to research publication and the ability to terminate the study at any time without cause. These contracts suggest that Coke wanted the power to bury research it funded that might detract from its image or profits, said Gary Ruskin, co-director of U.S. Right to Know. Coke would not agree to an interview. In a statement, the company said it implemented new guidelines in 2016 stating it would no longer provide all of the funding for scientific research and that other entities must provide at least 50 percent of the research costs. As part of its guidelines the company stated ...that we do not have the right to prevent the publication of research results nor do we provide funding conditioned on the outcome of the research. The finding comes at a time when U.S. cities including Philadelphia and other countries are introducing taxes on sugary beverages. Some municipalities have said they are doing so to combat health problems such as obesity. Philadelphia has framed its tax as a way to raise money for public programs such as parks and preschool. Nearly 40 percent of U.S. adults and about 18.5 percent of children are considered obese, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported. According to the World Health Organization, obesity across the globe has nearly tripled since 1975. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults 18 years and older were considered overweight, with 650 million classified as obese. About 340 million children and adolescents ages 5 to 19 and 41 million children under age 5 are considered overweight or obese. The researchers called on corporations to publish lists of terminated studies. They also suggested that journals require authors whose research is funded by companies with a vested interest in the outcome to upload the agreements as appendices to any peer-reviewed publication to demonstrate that any findings are free from influence. The lack of robust information on input by industry and on studies terminated before results are published, makes it impossible to know how much of the research entering the public domain reflects industry positions," said lead author Sarah Steele, with the University of Cambridge Department of Politics and International Studies. During the six week study, researchers told 87 children ages 3 to 5 that if they ate lentils, they would grow bigger and run faster. Read more Popeye was right when he sang Im strong to the finich, cause I eats me spinach. The legendary, one-eyed comic characters nearly 100-year-old message to kids about the benefits of eating the leafy green vegetable still holds true. Researchers at Washington State University and Florida State University found that telling children about the benefits of certain foods may get them to eat healthier rather than just giving them a healthy food choice without explanation. Their study was published Wednesday in the Journal of Nutritional Education and Behavior. Every child wants to be bigger, faster, able to jump higher, lead author Jane Lanigan, associate professor in department of human development at WSU, said in a press release. For example, during their six week study, researchers told 87 children ages 3 to 5 that if they ate lentils those mini-legumes that are a healthy, low-fat source of protein and fiber they would grow bigger and run faster. The kids were initially asked to rank how much they liked four foods from different food groups including lentils (protein), quinoa (grain), green peppers (vegetables), and tomatoes (vegetables). They were then offered two of the foods twice a week as part of their normal class routine. The low-rated food the kids chose was served up with age-appropriate facts about the benefits of eating the food. Their more-favored food did not get extra messaging. The amount of the food they ate was measured during the pre-test, post-test, and one month after the study ended. The post-test measurements showed no result, something researchers chalked up to the kids being sick of eating the same foods. But a month later, they found the children ate twice as much of the food that came with the healthy pitch. Over time, the study showed that telling kids about the benefits of foods in ways they can understand was likely to increase the amount of healthy food they ate, researchers found. We wanted to fill a gap, where parents are often told what their kids should be eating but not how to get them to eat it. And thats really important, Lanigan stated. When Ronethea Williams lights the wick of the candle in her Fairmount condo, she exhales. Williams looks to her midnight-orchard Mount Airy Candle Co. candle for stillness its aromatic scent and the subtle flicker a respite from her challenging job as an executive for a hiring platform. Lighting the candle is the beginning of my relaxation, she said. I can anticipate the sense of calmness to come. Whether youre seeking a tool to aid in relaxation or the finishing touch to your living-room decor, the Philadelphia region is a honeypot of candles for any need, if you know where to look. The options can be overwhelming, so weve organized our guide by affordability, fragrance, decor, and wellness. For affordability Bee Natural Located in Reading Terminal, this candle merchant might be hard to find, but the deals make it worth your while. The shop regularly offers specials, such as four for $20 on its 9-ounce jar candles and three for $10 on the 4-ounce jars. With more than 85 scents blueberry, honey, rose, citrus basil, eucalyptus, and peppermint youll find a scent you like. It also offers a large selection of pure and scented beeswax candles. $5 to $50, 51 N. 12th St., 302-222-0189, beenaturalllc.com Mount Airy Candle Co. A 6-ounce tin candle will set you back only eight bucks. The online shop, which takes orders through Etsy, features combinations like woodsy black pepper and cardamom or sweet peach and blossoms. All the candles are locally poured and made from soy wax. $8 (plus shipping), etsy.com/shop/MtAiryCandleCo Honeys Natural Candles Malika Wilkins, the woman behind this online candle store, crafts her soy-wax products in her West Philly home. Honeys has a large collection, with fragrances like creme brulee, berry-peach bellini, and fresh linen. Wilkins designed the scents of her soy-wax candles to carry across rooms, especially her 11-ouncers. The $13 candles have two wicks and are advertised to last 45 to 50 hours. $7 to $13 (plus shipping), honeysnaturalcandles.com For fragrance Vault + Vine Word has been out for some time that this East Falls flower shop-cafe is a great place for plants and floral design. But its stock of locally made candles is also worth a look. It carries Malvern botanicals producer Zoet Bathlatier and Philly-based aroma experts dilo, which Vault + Vine collaborated with on two scents: white tea and bergamot, and sandalwood and fig. $12 to $36, 3507 Midvale Ave., 267-331-6292, vaultandvine.co Gourmet Candle Philly resident Emerald Hill marries her love of food and candles in this online business. Her site specializes in candles that smell like food and drinks: mint mojito, butter crumble apple pie, pineapple sage, and cabernet sauvignon, to name a few. She also offers monthly subscription boxes for the adventurous. $8.50 to $34 (plus shipping), gourmetcandle.org Duross & Langel Co-owner Sara Evancho says the ingredients in the candles at this Center City body-care and fragrance boutique are so clean you could eat it. The shops candles are made with natural fragrance oils, soy wax, and soot-free cotton wicks (which promote a long burn time). Though shes partial to the earthier, woodsier scents, Evancho recommends the lemongrass and lavender option for spring. $21 to $30, 117 S. 13th St., 215-834-7226, durossandlangel.com For decor Yowie Shannon Maldonados carefully curated Queen Village shop stocks housewares that can double as art. She recently launched her own line of scented candles, which includes Secret Bikini, with a blood orange and neroli scent, and Fourth Street, which smells like white tea and leather. Each candle is labeled with the story of what inspired the scent. I wanted to lead with more of a feeling, Maldonado explained. $17 to $35, 716 S. Fourth St., shopyowie.com Anthropologie Anthropologie candles draw fanfare. Their scents, like Volcano, are beloved. Their following is the stuff of legend. Many of the wax offerings from tea lights to giant candles are contained in colorful tins, glass jars, ceramics, and even sculptures, like a candle set in a concrete tulip. $8 to $98, 1801 Walnut St., 215-568-2114, anthropologie.com Trunc This home decor and apparel boutique opened in Northern Liberties last fall, offering several options for candle lovers, particularly for those who want to make a statement. Looking for a hand-shaped candle? Maybe a chocolate-colored glass candle? How about a locally sourced beeswax candle in the shape of a pyramid? Trunc can help. $14 to $48, 929 N. Second St., 267-559-1604, trunc.net For wellness La Botanica North Philly has dozens of botanicas (spiritual wellness shops) that sell prayer candles at good prices. La Botanica is a good place to start. Along with incense and candles, the store is rife with spiritual guides covering Christianity, Wicca, astrology, Santeria, and more. The candles come in various sizes and scents (even coffee and garlic) and can represent saints, spirits, and good wishes. 20 cents to $12, 2726 N. Fifth St., 267-687-2615 Healing with Oshun Candles from the Germantown-based web store Healing with Oshun are meant for people who want to manifest, says owner Darasia Selby-Adebisi. Her catch a new love candle is for not just an ordinary love. Like, soulmate kind of love. Her be sweet to me candle is for support[ing] feelings of sweetness and affection in interpersonal relationships. The Yoruba priest makes each herself, requesting birthdays, names, and intentions to further personalize them. $29, healingwithoshun.com/shop Harrys World Harrys World is a go-to for spiritual supplies. Sage, palo santo, crystals, incense, and prayer candles are all in full supply here. There are thousands of items for sale, but the staff know exactly where things are. Have them show you the candles. $5 and up, 210 South St., 215-309-3326, harryspirtualworld.com Allan Domb, incumbent Democratic candidate for member of the Philadelphia City Council At-large, speaks at a forum hosted by the Alliance for a Just Philadelphia at Congregation Rodeph Shalom March 24, 2019. Moderator with microphone is Lorraine Haw, an organizer with the Coalition to Abolish Death By Incarceration. Read more A group of activists who oppose Philadelphias 10-year tax abatement filed an ethics complaint Wednesday against City Councilman Allan Domb, claiming that he should recuse himself from votes related to the abatement because his real estate business has profited from it. Because of his real estate development work, Domb "has a vested financial interest in many properties that benefit from this abatement, said Chenjerai Kumanyika, a member of the 215 Peoples Alliance and one of the residents who filed the complaint to the Board of Ethics. Domb, known as Philadelphias condo king, is the founder of Allan Domb Real Estate. Properties he owns, rents, and sells have received the abatement on new construction or rehabilitation projects, in which owners dont pay taxes on improvements for 10 years. In response to the complaint, Domb said he already had asked the citys Board of Ethics for an opinion on whether his three current abatement applications would preclude him from voting on tax abatement legislation. In a letter dated Monday, the board said Domb would have no conflict of interest because the bills currently before Council would affect only future abatement applications and would have no impact on Dombs current applications or abated properties. I look forward to continue working with my colleagues on this topic, Domb said. The tax abatement provides an incentive for individuals to invest in Philadelphia, its neighborhoods, and its housing stock, but we need to improve the standard. There are several bills pending in City Council that would change or eliminate the abatement, including one sponsored by Domb that would reduce the abatement in its last three years, making it essentially an 8 year program. 215 Peoples Alliance has endorsed some of Dombs opponents in the Democratic primary as he seeks reelection to an at-large City Council seat. The group endorsed Democratic candidates Erika Almiron, Isaiah Thomas, Justin DiBeradinis, Ethelind Baylor, and Councilwoman Helen Gym, all of whom have said they would like to reform or abolish the 10-yearabatement. The group released a report last month on Dombs financial interest in the abatement, claiming that the condo buildings in which his company rents and sells units received $12.3 million in tax breaks in 2018 through the program. In a conference call Wednesday, members of 215 Peoples Alliance said that although their report and complaint against Domb comes less than two weeks before the May 21 primary, they were not intended as campaign-related attacks. This isnt a personal attack, said Mindy Isser, a labor organizer and a member of 215 Peoples Alliance. Its very clear that Domb has a vested interest in maintaining the tax abatement. According to the citys property records, Domb appears to be the only Council member who owns property with a current tax abatement. Saudia Shuler, also known as "Camel Prom Mom," speaks on the phone while she exits the federal courthouse Wednesday in Philadelphia after her sentencing on government disability fraud charges. Shuler was ordered by a judge to serve six months' house arrest and three years' probation. Read more A North Philadelphia woman who became an internet sensation after hosting lavish events including a 2017 Dubai-theme prom send-off for her son featuring foreign luxury cars, three tons of sand, and even a rented camel said she put on the over-the-top parties to give her community a break from poverty and violence. But on Wednesday, it was Saudia Shuler herself who received the break when a federal judge spared her from prison during her sentencing for government benefit fraud. U.S. District Judge Juan R. Sanchez ordered the 44-year-old, who became known as Camel Prom Mom, to serve six months house arrest and three years probation a punishment far less severe than the prison term of four to 10 months called for by federal guidelines. While noting the seriousness of her crime collecting $37,000 in disability payments over four years to which she was not entitled the judge concluded that Shulers charity-focused fetes served as a force of good, uplifting people and not putting them down. In addition to house arrest, he ordered Shuler to complete 100 hours of community service and pay back the money. I see someone with tremendous potential to do a lot of good, not only for her child but for other members of the community, Sanchez said. I do think she is genuinely remorseful. I accept her explanation. I think she is sincere. For her court appearance Wednesday, Shuler eschewed the blinged-out party costumes that rocketed her to internet notoriety although she did stop on her way into the courthouse to snap a picture in her conservative black pantsuit for Instagram. Standing before the judge, she insisted that her posh parties were never paid for with stolen government funds. Its not that I have a lot of money or that I have a lot of resources, she told the judge in front of a courtroom packed with supporters. But I do know a lot of people that will help. Im actually embarrassed that Im standing in front of you in front of my community. The circumstances that landed Shuler in court came quickly on the heels of her rise as an internet celebrity. She was indicted last year one month after hosting another prom send-off, based on the movie Black Panther and featuring a caged panther, a catered dinner, fashion consultants, and actors dressed in costumes representing the mythical African nation of Wakanda featured in the film. It was one of 24 events she said she hosted that year, including a Cinderella-theme send-off with a horse-drawn carriage and a James Bond homage complete with helicopter ride for young prom dates. The total tab, Shuler said at the time, was above six figures. She told the court Wednesday that she covered the costs by soliciting community donations. But while her lawyer played a video of her greatest hits including footage from parties with themes like Hood Fairy Tale and a Christmas toy giveaway complete with a gyrating, hip-hop Santa prosecutors sought to puncture her image as a community role model. She may have lawfully begun to receive disability benefits after a series of ailments, but she failed to notify the government once her circumstances changed, they said. Between 2014 and 2018, Shuler continued to report that she was bedridden and unable to prepare her own meals even as she launched Country Cookin, a North Philadelphia restaurant that served as a hub for her charitable events. And although she may not have spent her disability funds on her parties, prosecutors maintained that she gambled much of it away on frequent trips to SugarHouse Casino. Saudia Shuler is not a folk hero or a neighborhood champion. She is an admitted thief who stole money from taxpayers in order to fund elaborate parties and enhance her own reputation, U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain said in a statement after the sentencing. He added, "Shame on her for taking money out of the pockets of people who actually depend on Social Security just to get by: the elderly, disabled and other vulnerable people, some of whom live in Shulers North Philadelphia neighborhood. Still, the more than 50 people who showed up to support Shuler refused to be swayed. Several of them, including some of the teen beneficiaries of Shulers prom night largesse, pleaded for leniency from the court. Nieme Brooker, a graduate of Penn Wood High School, told Sanchez that he received a prom package worth $20,000 from Shuler including two custom suits, hair styling and makeup services for his date, and a luxury car to escort them to the party after winning an essay contest Shuler sponsored. Without her assistance I would have been able to attend the prom, but it would not have been nothing like what Ms. Saudia did for me, he said. But it was another internet celebrity who brought many in the courtroom to tears. Before his release from prison a little more than two years ago, Wallace Peebles built a social media following of more than 500,000 with a contraband cellphone and a covert Instagram account under the screen name Wallo267. He said Wednesday that he had deserved prison for his crimes. Shuler, he told Sanchez, did not. We come from a place where hurt people hurt people, he said. Theres a lot of boys and girls who dont have a mother. They dont have love. Shes a deliverer of love. Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly reported the number of months of home confinement to which Shuler was sentenced. It is six. Washington: The first object, a wooden mask, was discovered by chance in 2007 by a child playing on a beach in Quinhagak, a rural village in western Alaska, along the Bering Sea. In the following months, hundreds of other ancient artefacts emerged from permafrost, the layer of soil that was once frozen throughout the year, which covers much of this American state and is now melting under the climate change. Baskets, sculpted harpoon handles, labrets (lip ornaments), statuettes, ivory needles for tattoos: these treasures belong to an ancient settlement of Eskimos Yupik and date back to some in the 17th century. Some 100,000 ancient Yupik artefacts, the largest collection in the world, are now stored in the small museum in Quinhagak. "It's by far the most amazing thing I've ever seen in a 40-year career and I've worked on some pretty spectacular sites," says Rick Knecht, an archaeologist at Aberdeen University in Scotland. For the last ten years, he has been leading the excavation team that is trying to save the relics of the site discovered five kilometres from Quinhagak and called Nunalleq, or "old village" in the Yupik language. "Almost everything we know about prehistory Yupik comes from this site," says the archaeologist by visiting the excavations to an AFP team. "The people here would have lost a tangible connection with their past, which would have been an incredible tragedy," the affable scientist with a grey beard said. While Knecht is looking forward to this windfall, he is also dismayed to think that other Yupiks deposits are probably disappearing throughout Alaska. Because the permafrost that has protected these organic objects for centuries decreases inexorably. "You can see the ground liquefying, it's like a jar of ice cream," the scientist grumbles, pointing to the slimy mud on the banks of Quinhagak and the blocks of earth ready to be swallowed up. Wrongly evicted tenants share their testimony to support the "Good Cause" bill at City Hall's Council chambers in February. Read more A bill signed into law Tuesday will offer some protections to month-to-month renters in Philadelphia from discriminatory or vindictive evictions. The bill, which City Council passed in early December, amends the Fair Housing Ordinance to require landlords to have a good reason for evicting someone with a lease lasting less than one year. As originally proposed, the bill covered all leases, but building owners and landlord associations said that put unfair burdens on landlords that could dissuade them from renting, and infringed on their ability to run their business. Any law that says a landlord has to have a good reason for evicting somebody is a major step forward, said Phil Lord, managing attorney for the Tenant Union Rights Network (TURN). Now they have to disclose, and if its a bad reason, like discrimination, then they have to come up with a lie, and if theyre not good at that, they wont try. The bill came out of an eviction crisis in Philadelphia, where one in 14 renters had eviction notices filed against them in 2017. Councilman Curtis Jones Jr. also saw it as a guard against displacement in neighborhoods where living costs are rising, and landlords may want to renovate properties and raise rent. As passed, the bill does little to protect against that, though. Among the permitted causes for evicting someone is if the landlord intends to make repairs on a unit or raise the rent. Other good causes include nonpayment of rent, breach of the lease, damage to property, nuisance behavior, refusal to allow the landlord to make repairs, or to sign a revised lease. A landlord can also evict someone if the intent is to rent the unit to an immediate family member. To terminate for good cause, a landlord must give the tenant 30 days' notice or the lease will automatically renew for another month. Its meant to protect people from being evicted for complaining about needed repairs or reporting a landlord to the city, as often happens, said Rue Landau, executive director of the Fair Housing Commission. The bill could also expose instances when a landlord tries to evict someone for reasons that violate Fair Housing laws. There are far too many low-income people in Philadelphia living in rental units in need of significant repairs, Landau said. This Good Cause bill strengthens the Fair Housing Ordinance and will keep unscrupulous landlords from committing unfair rental practices and terminating leases simply because tenants request necessary repairs." Karla Cruel, an attorney who represents tenants in landlord-tenant court and who previously worked for TURN, had advocated for the bill in the past but said she doesnt see the one that was enacted as being effective. To be very frank, I never thought it was going to do much," Cruel said. "It doesnt really do anything without any type of rent control attached to it. You can always just raise the rent beyond what someone can pay and thats good cause in the bill. Cruel who is running for City Council said another issue with the landlord-tenant legal system is the short window a tenant often has to file a complaint with the Fair Housing Commission to argue that an eviction was without good reason. Once a landlord files an eviction complaint in Municipal Court, a tenant can no longer submit a complaint to the commission, Cruel said. We tell tenants, run and get to Fair Housing before your landlord can sue you in court because if the landlord sues, you cant go. Victor Pinckney, president of HAPCO, the landlords association, said the law will make it harder for landlords to evict problem tenants whose behavior affects the quality of life of good tenants. Say youve got a tenant who doesnt put the trash out, has visitors coming in at all hours of night, making noise, upsetting neighbors; you just give them 30 days' notice and call it a day, Pinckney said. Now, they have the option to go to the Fair Housing Commission, you get called to testify, meanwhile the good tenants are unhappy and might move out. If I have good tenants, I want to keep my good tenants happy." The bill will go into effect April 22. Joe Biden greets diners at Gianni's Pizza with his sister, Valerie Biden Owens (right) in Wilmington, Delaware, April 25, after announcing the launch of his 2020 presidential campaign. Read more WASHINGTON Joe Biden will hold a campaign rally at Eakins Oval on May 18, his campaign told supporters Wednesday, confirming the details of a second major event in Pennsylvania just weeks into his presidential run. The event will bookend Bidens April 29 rally in Pittsburgh, and reflects his emphasis on Pennsylvania as he and his allies argue that the Scranton-born former vice president can win back crucial swing states that tipped toward Donald Trump in 2016. In Philadelphia, Biden will lay out his vision for unifying America with respected leadership on the world stage and dignified leadership at home, his campaign said in a news release. Further details were included in an email to supporters, and city officials said the campaign had requested permits for an event to begin at 1 p.m. that day. The Philadelphia rally will come after a Biden swing through the earliest voting states: Iowa, South Carolina, Nevada and New Hampshire. Staff writer Chris Brennan contributed to this article. Fred Rogers and David Newell, as Speedy Delivery's Mr. McFeely, stand on the front porch set while filming an episode of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood." Read more For most of his adult life, Mister Fred Rogers tried to stay at 143 pounds. It had little to do with health. The late childrens television pioneer and Pennsylvanias kindest native son saw the number as something more significant and spoke of 143 as representative of the brand of goodness he wanted to bring to the world. Theres one letter in I, four in love, and three in you." As an homage to Rogers, Gov. Tom Wolf will declare May 23, the 143rd day of the year, as 143 Day in Pennsylvania. The proclamation will be coupled with a statewide campaign challenging Pennsylvanians to do one kind thing for a neighbor, whether its buying a cup of coffee for a stranger in line at the store or writing a thank-you note to the mail carrier. The statewide day of kindness, which will be publicized via a social media campaign and an online kindness generator, is meant to serve as an antidote to the seemingly relentless news cycle and all the negativity that we surround ourselves with, said Carrie Fischer Lepore, the states deputy secretary of marketing, tourism, and film. She said the state also hopes to partner with corporations and other public agencies. Were really hoping this is going to be a statewide movement, she said, to inspire kindness and neighborly deeds. Rogers, who died in 2003, created and starred in Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, the childrens series that ran on PBS from 1968 to 2001. Born in the small town of Latrobe, the cardigan-wearing ordained minister wasnt shy about his Pittsburgh-area roots and the fact that his actual neighborhood outside the confines of television was here in Pennsylvania. His legacy of love figured prominently in the zeitgeist last year, which marked the 50th anniversary of the first episode of his show and the release of Wont You Be My Neighbor?, the documentary about his life. Around the same time, the state Department of Community and Economic Development launched the Fred Rogers Trail, a multi-stop guide for fans to trek around Latrobe and Pittsburgh to remember Rogers at some of the places that tell his story best. The 143 Day campaign this year will be adopted by Pennsylvanias state agencies, which will change their logos on social media to spread awareness about the day, Lepore said. Theyll encourage Pennsylvanians to use the online kindness generator to get ideas for good deeds, and then share those actions on Twitter and Facebook with the hashtag #143DayinPA so the message will spread further. This is not about trying to inspire travel, Lepore said. This is purely about trying to inspire kindness and gratitude and love for our neighbors. Part of Rogers fame came from his ability to put his hopes for the world into words. He has dozens of celebrated quotes that boil down into lessons, the most well-known being his program sign-off: Youve made this day a special day by just your being you. Theres no person in the whole world like you, and I like you just the way you are. But this campaign pays tribute to a lesser-known Rogers-ism, one Lepore said captures the spirit of what the state is hoping to accomplish: Imagine what our real neighborhoods would be like, he once said, if each of us offered, as a matter of course, just one kind word to another person. Jupiter Police Detective Andrew Sharp is questioned by Alex Spiro, right, attorney for New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, during a motion hearing in the Kraft prostitution solicitation case, Wednesday, May 1, 2019, in West Palm Beach, Fla. Kraft's attorneys argue that undercover surveillance videos allegedly showing their client paying for sex at a Jupiter day spa should be ruled inadmissible and the evidence thrown out. (Lannis Waters/Palm Beach Post via AP, Pool) Read more FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) The rivalry between Robert Kraft's New England Patriots and the Miami Dolphins appears tame compared to the heated contempt expressed between Florida prosecutors and Kraft's defense attorneys in his misdemeanor prostitution solicitation case. One day after prosecutors accused attorneys Alex Spiro and William Burck of lying in court, the duo fired back in court documents Wednesday, calling the accusation "scurrilous" and "baseless." Prosecutors Judith Arco, Greg Kridos and Craig Williams want Judge Leonard Hanser to find the pair in contempt of court; Burck and Spiro want the prosecutors sanctioned. "The prosecutors have now gone beyond trampling the rights of Mr. Kraft and into sullying the reputations of defense counsel," Spiro and Burck wrote. The only explanation for the allegations, they said, is the prosecution's "bad-faith efforts to distract from its own misconduct and from fatal defects in its case." The Palm Beach County State Attorney's Office declined comment. TV cameras did catch Arco last week using an obscenity under her breath to describe Spiro. That happened during a hearing over a request from Kraft's attorneys to suppress video secretly recorded by Jupiter police. The video allegedly shows Kraft twice paying for sex at the Orchids of Asia Day Spa in January. Kraft, 77 and worth $6 billion, is one of 25 men charged with paying between about $50 and $100 for sex at the spa. The owner and some employees have been charged with felonies. Kraft has pleaded not guilty but issued a public apology for his actions. Neither the attorneys for the prosecution nor those for the defense typically handle second-degree misdemeanors at this stage of their careers. Arco, Kridos and Williams usually handle major felony prosecutions. Burck represented former White House Counsel Don McGahn during special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation. Spiro represents Jay-Z, Mick Jagger and other celebrities in various matters. The current fight is mostly over Spiro's questioning, during the suppression hearing, of Jupiter patrol officer Scott Kimbark, who pulled over Kraft's chauffer after one of the spa visits to uncover his passenger's identity. As part of their undercover operation, Jupiter detectives watched live video of customers inside the spa. If they saw a customer have sex with an employee, they would relay that information to officers in the parking lot and nearby. They would follow the customer until he allegedly committed a traffic violation and then stop him, getting his identification so he could be charged later with soliciting a prostitute. The customers were not told at the time that they had been seen inside the spa. Spiro asked Kimbark whether he had told other officers that to justify pulling over a customer who left shortly before Kraft he would "make some (expletive) up." Kimbark said he didn't remember saying that and didn't think he would. Spiro asked that question or a variation of it three more times. Prosecutors said Spiro knew Kimbark never used that language or said he would concoct a reason to stop the driver. They said the traffic stop was legitimate, but that in order to preserve the integrity of their undercover operation, Kimbark said he would disguise where the infraction happened if asked. They said Spiro and Burck sullied Kimbark's reputation by implying he would lie to justify a stop. Spiro and Burck wrote in Wednesday's rebuttal that Spiro's questions accurately reflected Kimbark's actions and were based on the recollections of the other customer's attorney, who had seen the officer's body camera video. Prosecutors also accused Spiro of trying to intimidate Kimbark during a lunch break, allegedly telling the officer he had video of Kimbark saying "stupid" things. Spiro and Burck wrote that Arco and other police officers witnessed Spiro's conversation with Kimbark, but no one raised any objections to Hanser that day. "Far from being threatening in tone, the atmosphere in the hallway was amiable and light hearted ... to the point that Officer Kimbark even joked he would like to have a job working for the defense," the pair wrote. Hanser has not yet decided whether he will suppress the video. No matter how he decides, his ruling will likely be appealed. Young students embrace after a shooting at a charter school in Highlands Ranch, Colo., on Tuesday. One student was killed and eight others were injured. Read more If a picture could talk, this is the one that would say it all. Thats how Ashley Michels, a reporter at the Denver Fox affiliate KDVR, summed up an image she and photojournalist Aubrey Morse captured of young students huddled together following the deadly shooting at their Colorado charter school on Tuesday. The image, which has been widely shared on social media, was taken from footage shot by Morse outside the STEM School Highlands Ranch charter school, where two teenagers students shot and killed a student and injured eight others. During a Wednesday morning press conference, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock told reporters that three students remained in critical care, but the rest have been released from area hospitals. Michels said she didnt speak to the children, but summed up the scene she and Morse captured during KDVRs evening newscast. A little girl in tears. Two classmates holding on tight. And another student wondering why outside her school looks like this, Michels reported. Stories relayed by parents paint a traumatic picture of what students at the K-12 school experienced just after 2 p.m. Tuesday. One parent of a 13-year-old student said her son recalled seeing a body and a trail of blood. A mother of twins who also attend the school told KDVR her daughter called her as the shooting was taking place The student who died, identified by classmates as 18-year-old senior Kendrick Castillo, is being hailed as a hero after one of the suspects pulled out a gun and told everyone not to move. Thats when Kendrick lunged at him, and he shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape, senior Nui Giasolli said on the Today show Wednesday morning. Giasolli said three of her classmates tackled the shooter, a move she credited with saving others lives. Authorities working to determine how the teenage suspects obtained firearms The suspects an 18-year-old man and a juvenile female who were students at the school used two handguns in the shooting and also had a number of weapons, according to Spurlock, who told reporters the suspects were too young to buy or own handguns. Spurlock said local authorities were working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to figure out how the teens obtained firearms. While the 18-year-old suspect has been identified by authorities, District Attorney George Brauchler who also prosecuted the 2012 Aurora theater gunman asked journalists to minimally share the suspects names and photos in an attempt to limit notoriety they might receive following the shooting. We decided as a newsroom after we got the adult suspects picture yesterday not to air it and this morning, we arent using suspects name, KDVR reporter Emily Allen said. Here we are again The Highlands Ranch shooting took place just a week after two students were killed by a gunman at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte. This year alone, eight people have been killed and 32 wounded in 30 shootings at K-12 schools in the United States, according to data collected by the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, Calif. The school is located minutes away from Columbine, which just marked the 20th anniversary of the deaths of 13 people in one of the most notorious school shootings in U.S. history. STEM school was one of hundreds of schools near Denver that closed temporarily last month as law enforcement searched for a Florida woman who the FBI said was infatuated with the Columbine attack. The woman was ultimately found dead April 17 of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to authorities. Brauchler said there have been five high-profile shootings over the past 20 years that have taken place just 20 miles apart in Colorado. In addition to Highlands Ranch, Columbine, and the Aurora movie theatre shootings, Douglas County Sheriffs Office deputy Zack Parrish was killed in a 2017 shooting that injured four other deputies and two civilians. In 2013, one student was killed in a shooting at Arapahoe High School that took just 80 seconds. The gunman, also a student, took his own life. If you had suggested to anybody behind me or in this room that within 20 years in 20 miles we would have dealt with Columbine, the Aurora theater, Arapahoe High School, the shooting of Zack Parrish and four other deputies, wed have thought you mad," Brauchler said. And yet here we are again. In this photo released by the official website of the office of the Iranian Presidency, President Hassan Rouhani speaks in a cabinet meeting in Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, May 8, 2019. Read more Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday announced that his country was taking steps to halt its compliance with elements of a landmark nuclear accord, in a move that appeared certain to aggravate tensions with the United States. In a televised speech, Rouhani said that Iran would hold on to stockpiles of excess uranium and heavy water used in its nuclear reactors. He gave a 60-day deadline for new terms to the nuclear accord, after which Tehran would resume higher uranium enrichment. "We are ready to negotiate, within the boundaries of JCPOA," he said referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action nuclear deal. "It is not us who has left the negotiation table." In November, the United States reimposed sanctions that have strangled Iran's oil and banking sectors as well as its foreign trade. The sanctions came after the Trump administration's decision to withdraw from the pact that Iran negotiated with world powers in 2015, and that curbed its nuclear program in exchange for widespread sanctions relief. Rouhani's speech coincided with the first anniversary of the U.S. withdrawal and came amid heightened American economic and military pressure on Iran, including the deployment of an aircraft carrier to the Middle East that U.S. officials say was in response to credible indications Tehran planned to attack U.S. interests in the region. The measures announced by Rouhani came after speculation that Iran would take a more provocative approach, including fully exiting the accord or moving immediately to higher uranium enrichment. It was unclear whether the less dramatic moves it adopted would prevent a further unraveling of the deal or forestall additional punitive measures by allies or adversaries. "Today, nothing would be worse than Iran, itself, leaving this accord," French Defense Minister Florence Parly told France's BFMTV on Wednesday. Asked whether Iran could face sanctions as a result of its decision, Parly said: "Probably. That will be one of the things that will be examined." But she said that Europe remained committed to supporting the agreement. Europe "wants to be able to continue to keep this agreement alive." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been staunchly opposed to the Iranian nuclear deal since the outset and credits his own lobbying for triggering the Trump administration's withdrawal, referred to Rouhani's announcement during a ceremony to on Wednesday to mark Israel Memorial Day. "We will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons," he said. "We will continue with the struggle against those who seek to destroy our lives." Israel's security establishment has been more mixed in its assessment of the advantages of retaining a deal and is concerned that Iran will accelerate its nuclear program in the near future, Israel's Army Radio reported on Wednesday. The military believes that in the wake of U.S. sanctions and international pressure on Iran, Tehran will be more assertive in the region and Israel is "braced" for Iranian aggression. The Israeli military did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The United States has imposed sanctions on purchasers of Iranian oil and designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a branch of the Iranian military, as a terrorist group. On Friday, the State Department announced new restrictions on Iran's civil nuclear program, despite protests by European allies. There was no immediate reaction from the White House to the Iranian announcement. Rouhani sent a letter notifying the signatories to the nuclear deal of Iran's reduced commitments on Wednesday, according to IRNA, the official state news agency of Iran. The signatories - Britain, France, Germany and the European Union, in addition to Russia and China - have continued to support the nuclear accord and have been unable to hinder the White House's determination to isolate Iran. In recent weeks, Iranian officials have indicated that the country could begin enriching uranium levels beyond what is permitted by the nuclear accord or limit access to the International Atomic Energy Agency's monitors. Uranium fuel used in power plants only needs to be enriched to a low level, however, when it is enriched to much higher levels it can be used to produce weapons. Ultimately, though, "the Iranians certainly tried to find the mildest first step here, which would both pressure the Europeans and appease their domestic constituents without provoking a strong reaction from the US, and angering the Russians too much," Ariane Tabatabai, an associate political scientist at the RAND Corporation, said in a text message. "Iran says it'll stop adhering to the stockpile limits in the deal but in practice, it may not actually go above those limits - that remains to be seen," she said. "It's not like they're making the decision now to stop adhering to the limit and tomorrow they'll go above it. It'll take time and may or may not happen within the time frame they've fixed for themselves." Iran was also hoping to spur European allies to take a more "proactive" role in sustaining the nuclear accord and stand up to the United States, she said. "The Iranians actually don't want the JCPOA to collapse and they don't want to have to take the next steps they've laid out because they know it can torpedo the deal." Fahim reported from Istanbul. The Washington Posts Michael Birnbaum in Brussels and Ruth Eglash and Loveday Morris in Jerusalem contributed to this report. Michael Behenna, right, answers a question during a news conference Wednesday, May 8, 2019, in Oklahoma City. At left is his mother, Vicki Behenna. Behenna has been pardoned from his 2009 conviction for killing an Iraqi prisoner. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) Read more OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) A former U.S. soldier from Oklahoma who was pardoned this week for his 2009 conviction for killing an Iraqi prisoner said Wednesday that he initially didn't answer the White House's phone call to tell him of the pardon. Former Army 1st Lt. Michael Behenna said he was on the phone with his father, retired FBI agent Scott Behenna, when the call came about 2:30 p.m. Monday as he was driving. He didn't recognize the number and thought it might be a telemarketer, so he let it go to voicemail. After checking his messages, he returned the call and was told President Donald Trump was granting him a pardon and would call him back. When Behenna's phone rang again, it was Trump's office putting the president on the line so he could tell Behenna personally. "I had tears in my eyes, my heart's beating fast and I'm smiling from ear to ear. I had a feeling I knew what it was for," the 35-year-old Behenna said, adding that the call was a surprise because he expected his attorneys to inform him of the decision instead. Behenna was convicted in 2009 of unpremeditated murder in a combat zone in the 2008 killing of Ali Mansur Mohamed, an unarmed Iraqi prisoner. Behenna said he acted in self-defense when the man reached for Behenna's handgun, but the Army said the argument didn't hold up because Behenna was pointing his weapon at the prisoner. Behenna admitted during his trial that instead of taking the prisoner home as he was ordered, he took the man to a railroad culvert, stripped him, then questioned him at gunpoint about a roadside bombing that had killed two members of Behenna's platoon. A military appeals court in 2012 found that jury instructions on self-defense were incorrect and that prosecutors failed to tell the defense of a crime scene expert who supported the claim of self-defense, but the court said the errors were harmless and did not affect the outcome of the trial. "What I was told by President Trump ... was that I received a pardon because of the prosecutorial misconduct that happened during the trial," Behenna said Wednesday. The first person he told about the pardon was his father, who didn't believe him. Scott Behenna recalled later that after talking to his son, he called the same number and was put in touch with a White House attorney who assured him the pardon was real. Behenna's mother, former federal prosecutor Vicki Behenna, stood waiting outside her son's vehicle after he had parked, unaware of the topic of his phone conversations. Once he told her, she also didn't believe him. Behenna, a native of the Oklahoma City suburb of Edmond, said he initially planned on a career in the military, but is now focused on a 20-acre (8-hectare) cattle ranch he owns in Guthrie, where he lives about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Oklahoma City. Supporters of Behenna's pardon request include Oklahoma Sens. Jim Inhofe and James Lankford, both Republicans, and Republican state Attorney General Mike Hunter, who twice sent a letter to Trump, urging that a pardon be granted. Michael Breen, president and CEO of Human Rights First, which describes itself as an organization that urges "the U.S. government and private companies to respect human rights and the rule of law," criticized the decision. "President Trump's pardon of a servicemember convicted of murder by the U.S. military undermines the morale of our armed forces, erodes our allies' trust of the armed services overseas and by showing that we won't hold our forces to the same standards we demand of others places our servicemembers in greater danger in combat zones and beyond," Breen said in a statement. Behenna said he has maintained contact with several soldiers he served with in Iraq and that many have called him since Monday to say his pardon was overdue. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks during an interview at United Nations headquarters on Tuesday, May 7, 2019. Guterres said the world has to change, not in small incremental ways but in big transformative ways into a green economy with electric vehicles and clean cities because the alternative would mean a catastrophic situation for the whole world. Read more UNITED NATIONS (AP) The United Nations secretary-general said the world must dramatically change the way it fuels factories, vehicles, and homes to limit future warming to a level scientists call nearly impossible. Thats because the alternative would mean a catastrophic situation for the whole world, Antonio Guterres told the Associated Press in an exclusive interview. Guterres said he's about to tour Pacific islands to see how climate change is devastating them as part of his renewed push to fight it. He is summoning world leaders to the U.N. in September to tell them "they need to do much more in order for us to be able to reverse the present trends and to defeat the climate change." That means, he said, the world has to change, not in small incremental ways but in big "transformative" ways, into a green economy with electric vehicles and "clean cities." Guterres said he will ask leaders to stop subsidizing fossil fuels. Burning coal, oil, and gas triggers warming by releasing heat-trapping gases. He said he wants countries to build no new coal power plants after 2020. He wants them to put a price on the use of carbon. And ultimately he wants to make sure that by 2050 the world is no longer putting more greenhouse gases into the air than nature sucks out. Global temperatures have already risen about 1.8 degrees since the industrial age began. The issue is how much more the thermometers will rise. In 2015, the worlds nations set a goal to limit global warming to no more than 0.9 degrees from now. Most scientists say it is highly unlikely, if not outright undoable, to keep man-made climate change that low, especially since emissions of heat trapping gases are rising, renewable energy growth is plateauing, and some countries leaders and voters are balking. A panel of scientists the U.N. asked to look at the issue ran computer models for more than 500 future scenarios, and less than 2% achieved those warming limits. Guterres said the wholesale economic changes needed to keep the temperature from rising another degree or more may be painful, but there will be more pain if the world fails. "If you don't hang on to that goal, what you'll achieve is a total disaster," the secretary-general said in his 38th floor conference room. If countries only do what they promised in the 2015 Paris climate agreement, it would be catastrophic because the world would warm by another 4.5 degrees, Guterres said, adding that is why we need to dramatically accelerate what everybody knows needs to be done. Yet, globally the trends are going the other way. University of Michigan environment dean Jonathan Overpeck said it looks unlikely that the world could prevent another 1.8 degrees of warming, let alone 0.9 degrees. And in an odd way that gives the U.N. chief optimism. Because as disasters mount and deaths increase, the public, especially youths, will realize that warming is "a dramatic threat to the whole of humankind," Guterres said. So the worse it gets, the more people will demand change, he said. That's why he's about to visit the islands of Fiji, Tuvalu and Vanuatu in the Pacific Ocean, which he said is hit hardest by climate change. Guterres said he wants to use the determination and moral authority of the people who live on the threatened islands to convince world leaders to make necessary change. Here are some excerpts from the 25-minute interview with Guterres, who said he used to love steak houses but now only goes once every three months because livestock contribute significantly to warming. The questions and answers have been edited for clarity and length: Q: How can you be optimistic? A: That is the paradox. Things are getting worse. Temperatures are rising faster than expected. We see the Arctic melting. We see glaciers disappearing. We see corals bleaching. We see biodiversity being dramatically threatened. So things are getting worse and worse. But the political will has been slow. We need to reverse this trend. We need to make people understand that this is not sustainable. And the reason why I'm optimistic is that I feel that more and more people are convinced of that. And as more and more people are convinced of that, I believe governments will feel the need to increase their political will which at this present moment is still lagging behind. You have seen the fantastic attitude of young girls and boys making a strike in favor of climate action. You see more and more business and communities assuming responsibilities. Q: Can you fight climate change and biodiversity loss at the same time? A: Climate change is a major threat to biodiversity. Its because of climate change that species are disappearing. So we need at the same time to be concerned with the climate action with our oceans to make sure that we keep the richness of a planet that was created by God. And I dont believe God would be very happy to see many of his creatures disappearing. Q: How do you see the United States and the Trump administration on climate? A: In the United States I disagree with the policies that the government has implemented. But I see fantastic attitudes and fantastic developments in what is done by large businesses, by cities, by the civil society. I can see the United States a country with an enormous potential to achieve what needs to be achieved for us to be able to defeat climate change. Johnny Bobbitt Jr. (left), Mark D'Amico, and Kate McClure at the CITGO station where Bobbitt said he spent his last $20 to buy gas for McClure. Read more Mark DAmico has been indicted on conspiracy and theft charges in the $402,000 GoFundMe scam that defrauded donors with a fictitious Good Samaritan story, the Burlington County Prosecutors Office said Wednesday. DAmico, 39, of Florence, was charged with theft by deception, financial facilitation of criminal activity, elements of computer theft, misapplication of entrusted property, and conspiracy to commit each of those acts, according to Prosecutor Scott Coffina. DAmico was arrested last year along with his then-girlfriend, Katelyn McClure, and Johnny Bobbitt Jr., and accused of concocting a story that defrauded more than 14,000 donors: that Bobbitt, a homeless veteran and in addiction, helped McClure with his last $20 when she ran out of gas in Philadelphia two years ago, and that they wanted help to get him back on his feet. The three appeared on national television to spread the false narrative, and their Paying It Forward campaign on the crowdsourcing site went viral. Bobbitt, 36, who was living on city streets when the campaign started, pleaded guilty in Superior Court in Mount Holly, and was sentenced last month to special probation and ordered to enroll in an inpatient rehabilitation facility. He will be subject to intensive Drug Court monitoring. He admitted to a charge of conspiracy to commit theft by deception. Bobbitt also is expected to be sentenced this summer in U.S. District Court in Camden for related crimes. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges and faces an additional six to 30 months in federal prison under a plea arrangement with prosecutors. McClure, 29, of Bordentown, pleaded guilty in April to theft by deception, and could receive up to four years in prison when she is sentenced next month. As part of their plea agreements in state court, McClure and Bobbitt agreed to testify against DAmico. McClure pleaded guilty to a federal charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud in March. She could face up to 33 months in prison when she is sentenced this summer. Matt Reilly, a spokesperson for the U.S. Attorneys Office in Newark, said Wednesday that he could neither confirm nor deny the existence of an investigation of DAmico. The Prosecutors Office said the GoFundMe campaign was created in November 2017, soon after DAmico took a photograph of McClure and Bobbitt standing at the Girard Avenue exit ramp on I-95. Their goal was $10,000 to provide Bobbitt with an apartment, a vehicle, and six months of living expenses. But money poured in, and McClure and DAmico quickly spent it on gambling trips to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, a BMW, a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, and Louis Vuitton handbags, the Prosecutors Office continued. The couple bought Bobbitt a camper and for a time allowed him to live in it on property McClures family owns in Florence. They also bought him a used SUV and gave him about $75,000, some of which he admitted spending on drugs. In time, Bobbitt grew publicly frustrated that he was not receiving what he considered his fair share and the scheme eventually unraveled. THE PARENTS: Abby Deardorff, 39, and Jason Deardorff, 40, of Royersford THE CHILDREN: Marshall Joseph, 5; Everly Anne, 3; Remington Hope, born January 18, 2019 AN EARLY RELATIONSHIP CHALLENGE: The pug puppy Abby bought from a breeder shortly after they moved in together; the dog took six months to potty-train, including endless 3 a.m. wake-ups to let him outside. The third pregnancy seemed too good to be true. For the first two, Abby likes to say, she dabbled in fertility, using Clomid to treat her polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This time, though, theyd gotten pregnant the old-school way, while visiting Austin, Texas, for a friends birthday. That pregnancy, I felt everything, Abby recalls. I was so sick. I was exhausted. It was what I wanted, but I felt so crappy. We saw the baby moving on the ultrasound; we heard her heartbeat. The genetic testing came back fine. But at Abbys 13-week appointment, the midwife couldnt find a heartbeat. It wrecked me, Abby says. After two healthy babies and no history of pregnancy loss in her family, she felt blindsided by the miscarriage. Jason seemed inexplicably resilient, able to wake up each morning not thinking about the daughter they didnt have. Abby, meantime, rode waves of jealousy, anger, and grief. It was difficult for me to relate to what she was going through, which was frustrating for both of us, Jason says. I didnt know how to comfort her. Abby sought support online and discovered a community of women who had suffered pregnancy losses; eventually, she started an annual remembrance service at Einstein Medical Center Montgomery, where she works as an OB nurse. I remember being in that room when the ultrasound tech said, Im sorry. It doesnt look good. I knew I would be a better friend, and a better nurse, for having gone through this. The couple always figured theyd have children; they even joked about naming a daughter Mary Grace, after both of their mothers. They met by happenstance through a mutual friend when Jason was a student at West Chester University and Abby was living in Bryn Mawr. There was a night, with Jason and a gaggle of friends at McFaddens, when Abby found herself thinking, Im going to marry him. And she did a beach-side proposal in July 2005 and a wedding the following year, the two of them free-styling their first dance to Kenny Chesneys You Had Me From Hello. For the next six years, both focused on careers: Abby studied nursing full-time at West Chester while working part-time at a tanning salon; Jason also had two jobs, as a supply chain manager and at a trucking company. Abby wanted to pass her nursing boards before trying to get pregnant; given her diagnosis of PCOS, she knew that might take a while. It was Dec. 31, 2012, on their way to a party, when the fertility clinic called. We both started crying, Jason remembers. It was excitement, fear, a lot of emotions all at once. Abby recalls a smooth, healthy pregnancy bike-riding at the Shore on weekends, a sense of confidence about the birth. In a class taught by her doula, she watched a video of a woman whose labor mantra was, I can do it. I can do it. And when it came time to push out Marshall, born at 41 weeks, that film clip became a touchstone. At one point, I was about to say, I cant do this, and then I remembered the video and thought, I can. It was one of the best and hardest nights of my life, the most empowering thing Ive ever done, she says. It made me almost addicted to having babies, the oxytocin high. Marshall was an easygoing infant, and they took him everywhere: to Florida, to Phillies games, to Fairmount Park. Abby was still breast-feeding when they began trying to conceive again. This time, it took Clomid and an intrauterine insemination. This time, with a toddler at home and a new job at Einstein, pregnancy felt exponentially harder. Abby recalls a Monday night near her due date; she stood outside, gaping at the giant blood moon of October, and thinking, Moon, take this baby. She went into labor the next day. This was completely different. With Marshall, it was an out-of-body experience; with Everly, I was alert, very aware. Abbys mother, in the room along with Jason, the midwife, and a birth photographer, caught the baby, just as she had with Marshall. The post-birth high happened again. I am unique in that I love the immediate postpartum period, Abby says. Time seems to stand still. All that matters is your little family. And she fully expected a reprise of that experience when she became pregnant for the third time in January 2017. After that loss, Abby says, there wasnt just one thing that helped me. It was just time, and allowing myself to grieve. They still wanted a third. And when she saw the positive pregnancy test, on Memorial Day last year, she felt confident, not frightened. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop, to feel really depressed or scared, but I felt like it was going to be OK. Because Abby developed gestational diabetes, doctors wanted to induce before her due date; it was a swift labor, with her water breaking at noon and the baby emerging at 4:30 p.m. Abby calls Remington their rainbow baby, the promise that comes after the devastation. Jason says their parenthood journey has made him more compassionate and more keen to cherish small, everyday oases all three kids piled on him while he watches TV, or the nights when Marshall and Everly insist that he crawl across the bedroom while they cling to his back. After the miscarriage, Abby got a tattoo of a lime the size their daughter would have been at that time. And each year on the anniversary of that loss, the whole family visits Adamstown; they release flowers into Little Muddy Creek and then they get ice cream. Everly doesnt remember, but Marshall sometimes talks about his absent sister. Is she in the graveyard? hell ask. No, Abby says. Shes in our hearts and our memories. London: The Rev Andrew Foreshew-Cain was a vicar at the St Mary with All Souls, Kilburn, and St James in West Hampstead for around two decades, but was forced to leave his post in 2017, reported The Guardian. His only crime was marrying the man he loved, Stephen, in 2014. The church let him keep his vicar position for three years after his wedding, but was unceremoniously asked to resign in 2017. Post-his wedding, he was blacklisted from finding another job and when he officially resigned from the church in 2017, he condemned the church, calling it institutionally homophobic. This is a very discriminatory move from the church as heterosexual priests can marry and indulge in sexual intercourse, but if the priest is homosexual, he is expected to remain unmarried and celibate. Insisting on celibacy, the Reverend argues, [implies that] God will only accept you if you dont have sex; that is, if you dont want what everybody wants, which is to be loved by somebody and to love them on their terms. I think that is abusive, he added. Since being ousted from the church, the Reverend spent his time resorting a neglected Georgian house. But now, he is returning to the ministry. From autumn, he will take on the role of chaplain of Lady Margaret Hall, a college at Oxford University. It feels as if Im ready to become a priest again, but a different kind of priest, perhaps, said Foreshew-Cain. Foreshew-Cains return to the clergy may witness campaigns for inclusion of LGBTQ clergy members. The Campaign for Equal Marriage in the Church of England advocates for the right of lesbian and gay Anglicans to marry in their local parish. The Reverend is expected to demand rights for gay clergymen too. This can dictate the future of Church of England in British society, he said. A survey by British Social Attitudes says only 2% of young Britons identify with the Church of England. The youth view the church as a backward institution and are now inclining towards progressive Anglicanism. Were not losing people because they no longer believe in God. Were losing people because they no longer believe in the church, said Foreshew-Cain. Unless the Church of England can be enthusiastic in its welcome of gay and lesbian people, and their families and friends, too, we dont stand a chance, he added. Foreshew-Cain never planned on being a priest. At 19, became involved in the Christian Union and two years later in University, he met his first boyfriend. He said that his vicar then, never discouraged his relationship. I never faced any homophobia about it, he said. The Church of England feels very different as an organisation now to how it felt when I was first in the church. The sort of progressive liberalism that dominated the church from the 1950s has been replaced by a kind of much more self-confident evangelicalism, which is often very conservative, noted Foreshew-Cain. The Church of England was unhappy about gay activism and liberation even after the partial decriminalisation of same-sex intimacy in 1967. The growing acceptance of the LGBTQ community forced the church to accept it and in 1991, it published the Issues in Human Sexuality, a document, which treads a delicate line between compassion for and acceptance of homophiles within the church. Now, Foreshew-Cain is sceptical that much will change. But it is high time for a change in the mindsets. These campaigns are not going to go away. Gay people in the church are not going to go away. And the moral question mark over the integrity of the church is not going to go away. Its only going to become more intense, he concluded. Freshman Republican state Rep. Stephanie Borowicz of Clinton County chats with visitors during an open house at one of her office in March 2019. Read more HARRISBURG Republican State Rep. Stephanie Borowicz may be new on the job, but it didnt take long for her to become divisive. The first-term lawmaker from Clinton County, who made national headlines this year for delivering a controversial prayer on the floor of the House, is now fielding criticism for a photo that ricocheted across social media this week. In the photo, taken Monday at a gun rights rally at the state Capitol, Borowicz appears alongside a man wearing a shirt with the name and logo of the American Guard, which anti-hate-group organizations describe as having close ties to white supremacists. One, the Anti-Defamation League, has asked her to apologize. Borowicz did not respond to multiple requests for comment. In a statement, she said she is often approached by people, including constituents, who want to take photos with her. We do not, nor should we, require ID or background checks as a condition for being photographed with the people of Pennsylvania our constituents! The many photos taken of me at this years Rally to Protect Your Right to Keep and Bear Arms are no different, she said in a statement. The statement did not address if she knew anything about the American Guard or the man who took the selfie with her. She did not respond to the ADLs statement. A spokesperson for the American Guard could not immediately be reached for comment. The group says on its website that it promotes American Constitutional Nationalism, and rejects what it calls left-wing or right-wing tyranny. The Anti-Defamation League has said the American Guard was founded by a longtime white supremacist who was affiliated with a hard-core racist skinhead gang that has had a high association with violence. It is irresponsible for state legislators to pose for selfies with white supremacists, said Nancy K. Baron-Baer, the leagues regional director, later adding: "Whether or not Rep. Borowicz knew who this individual was or what he stood for, she knows now, and should immediately apologize and condemn white supremacy. Whether the man in the photo was a member of the group is not clear. His identity has not been publicly verified. A progressive activist, Sean Kitchen, spotted Borowicz and the American Guard member taking the selfie on Monday. He snapped a photo of the moment and posted it to Twitter. This is a typical, calculated move out of their leftist playbook to take a photograph, distort the truth, and assassinate my character," Borowicz said. This nonsense is exactly what Americans are tired of, lies and distortions of the truth. Kitchens tweet caught the attention of Harrisburg lawmakers, including some of Borowiczs Democratic colleagues, who have been critical of her since her prayer on the House floor. Borowicz delivered the prayer in late March, on the day the chambers first Muslim woman was being sworn into office. During her prayer, she mentioned Jesus 13 times, describing him as our only hope, and referenced Israel and President Donald Trump, among others. Some critics accused her of politicizing the prayer. House guidelines say the prayer should be appropriate for people of all faiths. Fredo Trice (left), Sheila Armstrong (center), Jennifer Bennetch (right) and her daughter occupy the PHA headquarters on May 2, calling for more transparency and accountability for PHA. Read more Since April 22, through the erratic sunshine and downpours of spring, Jennifer Bennetch and Fredo Trice have been sleeping outside the new Philadelphia Housing Authority headquarters on Ridge Avenue in Sharswood. To the right of PHAs front doors, they have set up mattresses, lawn chairs, and blue tarps. Signs are tied to stakes planted in the small patches of soil around skinny trees: PHA DISPLACES RESIDENTS, one reads. Please share your PHA horror stories!" reads another. Throughout the day, a small group of others join the crew PHA tenants, mothers living in shelters who are looking for permanent housing, supporters from the Philadelphia Tenants Union and the Philadelphia Democratic Socialist Feminist Working Group. Sometimes, Bennetchs two young children are at her side. This is #OccupyPHA. Following the national #OccupyICE movement last summer, in which protesters called for the abolition of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Occupy Wall Street protests that began in 2011, Bennetch, 33, a North Philadelphia activist who owns a home near PHA housing and is known to some as Nadera Hood, says protesters wont leave until their demands are met. It comes at a time of increased protest across the United States, as more people feel compelled to express discontent. The occupations demands are sprawling, encompassing housing, PHA Police, and operations. Yet most important, the protesters say, is that PHA must be more responsive to Philadelphians and its residents. For the last two years, Bennetch has been attending PHAs board meetings, and she said she is increasingly dissatisfied with what feels like residents inability to get answers to their concerns. Among other issues, she said, she has questions about PHAs progress in Sharswood, the North Philadelphia neighborhood that the agency is rebuilding to help stave off gentrification. An ambitious plan to redevelop Sharswood The genesis of PHAs 10-year, $500 million plan to transform Sharswood was in 2016, when PHA imploded the notorious Norman Blumberg Apartments, three high-rises and a cluster of low-rise buildings that had long been a symbol of the areas deep poverty and crime. No child should live under the conditions I saw at Blumberg, PHA President Kelvin A. Jeremiah said in 2016, citing his visit to the complex, where he said an armed man in the courtyard told him to get out. One year after the towers fell, federal prosecutors issued charges against a million-dollar-a-year drug operation that gripped the campus. >> READ MORE: From 2016: Blumberg towers come tumbling down, raising memories of horror and home The demolition of high-rise public housing towers has found national support, including at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which has awarded municipalities grants to demolish public-housing towers to build lower-density, mixed-income neighborhoods instead. Jeremiahs plan for Sharswood has been regarded as more ambitious than most. The Sharswood Blumberg Choice Neighborhoods Transformation Plan, as the project is called, seeks to revitalize the neighborhood which stretches from 19th to 27th Streets and Girard to Cecil B. Moore Avenues by constructing 1,200 homes, revitalizing the Ridge Avenue commercial corridor, reopening schools, and bringing in more businesses. To achieve that, PHA used eminent domain to acquire nearly 1,300 properties for redevelopment a move that faced criticism for relocating the residents of more than 70 houses. #OccupyPHA has questioned the status of the seized properties and why many of them appear to still be vacant. Jeremiah acknowledged that PHA started out boldly. The neighborhood, he said, cried for something to be done. Which is why, Jeremiah said, PHA moved swiftly to acquire the private and public parcels many of which he said were vacant, tax delinquent, or city-owned. Had PHA not intervened, Jeremiah said, "we would not have been able to maintain affordability in an area where we had, frankly, responsibility to address the circumstances that families here found themselves in. Jeremiah defended the agencys track record and said the protesters were wrong. He met with Bennetch on Monday to discuss her concerns. I think they do not have the information that they can reasonably rely on to make the determinations that they have made, Jeremiah said before the meeting. In roughly three years, he said, PHA has completed 57 single-family homes as rental units and finished the redevelopment of the one Blumberg tower that was left standing, which will house seniors in 94 units. PHAs $45 million headquarters on Ridge Avenue recently opened. And the authorityhelped launch the Vaux Big Picture High School in the neighborhood, Jeremiah said. In the months ahead, 87 new single-family homes will open on the old Blumberg campus, Jeremiah said, and plans are in the works for 20 affordable houses for purchase through a Habitat for Humanity partnership. Other partnerships, including with the Michaels Organization, Pennrose, and Hunt Cos., will yield hundreds of new affordable housing units, too. >> READ MORE: From 2017: Philly Housing Authority took their homes two years ago. They are still waiting to get paid All residents who were part of the Blumberg development have the right to return, Jeremiah said. Those who were displaced or whose properties were seized were compensated, a spokesperson said. Still, vacant lots and blighted houses owned by PHA dot Sharswoods landscape, though Jeremiah said development will sprout as the agency continues its work. He said PHAs progress is reliant on annual funding, which has been pressured by an increasingly dubious federal funding landscape and competition for subsidies. This plan its comprehensive, and it tries to address education, economic empowerment opportunities for families who could be living and working in this neighborhood, and it provides high-quality housing that anyone could be proud of, Jeremiah said. Change doesnt happen overnight. Were in a crisis Because the occupation is located steps from PHA headquarters, it has drawn in folks who have come to the building with questions and concerns. That includes Antoinette Miller, a disabled 60-year-old grandmother whos been on the waiting list for PHA housing since 2008. Every year, PHA sends her a form to fill out to confirm shes still interested in housing. This year, she alleges, she didnt get it. She had come to PHA to make sure she was still on the list. And Larry London, a 27-year-old father, who received a Section 8 voucher and found an apartment to live in, yet, he says, he has been waiting a month for PHA to inspect it. London, an amputee, was worried his voucher would expire, and he wouldnt have a place to take his son. (A PHA spokesperson said the reason for the delay was because London had chosen an apartment that someone else was already living in but that the apartment just passed inspection this week.) The protest speaks to a larger crisis in Philadelphia amid the largest development boom in the citys history. Even as the city continues to see wealthier residents move in, thousands of Philadelphians still face housing insecurity in 2017, for example, one in 14 renters had eviction notices filed against them. Legislators have tried to take on the problem with laws protecting renters, but building owners and landlord associations have fought them, arguing the regulations are burdensome. >> READ MORE: Newall: In Sharswood, collecting personal histories both beautiful and cruel According to Community Legal Services housing attorney Rasheedah Phillips, displacement concerns are real in Sharswood, in part because of how quickly Brewerytown, Francisville, and Cecil B. Moore neighborhoods have been gentrifying around it. PHAs redevelopment plan has been billed as mixed-income Jeremiah said 80 percent of units will be affordable housing units and 20 percent will be market-rate. Phillips, a Brewerytown resident who has collected oral histories of Sharswood residents, fears that the fabric of the community is going to shift dramatically. These protesters, Phillips said, their mind is in the right place." Were in a crisis," she continued. "We need to understand the longer-term impacts and what everybodys role is. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner reportedly is very close to implementing a policy that would move toward decriminalizing drug-possession cases. Possession is different than dealing, Krasner told the news website Axios, which first reported the policy change and said it would air the full interview next month on an episode of its HBO series. We are talking about people who are using drugs, the vast majority of them suffering from addiction. I do not see value in convicting people like that. The interview took place on May 1. Cameron L. Kline, a spokesperson for Krasner, said Wednesday that the idea was still under development. The DA believes that diversion is most often the best approach for dealing with simple drug possession, ideally to make sure that drug users get treatment for addiction as opposed to incarceration, Kline wrote in an email. We expect to have more to announce soon, but at this time there is no written policy or timeline for implementation. Under the plan as reported, people arrested or charged with possessing small amounts of illegal drugs would not be jailed or have a criminal record, but would enter a diversionary program in which they would receive treatment or participate in community service. It is not clear if Krasner intends for the policy to apply to all amounts of drugs, or just small amounts. Kline said he had no additional comment beyond his statement. What the police commissioner says Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross said Wednesday that he was not aware of the Axios report, but said: What we do need to be careful of is blanket policies that allow people to possess illegal narcotics without consequences. We have no interest in seeing people incarcerated who are addicted to substances that are illegal. But, Ross said, the violence that often accompanies drug dealing is clearly driving our murder rate. We have to be careful that our ideology matches our reality. What the mayors office says Mayor Jim Kenneys spokesperson, Mike Dunn, said in an email that without knowing specifics of the proposal, the administration could not comment. He added: "What we need and currently lack is a clear understanding of the full policy, and a discussion of its possible repercussions. Dunn noted that in December 2017, before Krasner took office, the city had launched the Police Assisted Diversion (PAD) program in North Phillys 22nd Police District. The diversion program allows police officers to connect people with addiction to social services instead of arresting them for low-level crimes like drug possession, purchasing, prostitution, and retail theft. Engagement with the service provider is the only requirement of the program, as we recognize that substance use disorder is a public health issue and making treatment compulsory can sometimes be counterproductive, said Dunn. The PAD program has since expanded to two other police districts, the 39th in North Philly and the 24th, which includes drug-ravaged Kensington. What Krasner has said in the past Krasner already has shown leniency toward drug users. At a joint hearing of the Democratic Policy Committees in Harrisburg last month, Philadelphias district attorney said his office would not prosecute cannabis DUIs unless people show active I repeat, active psychoactive amounts of cannabis in their system that rise to a level which has generally scientifically been agreed upon as affecting driving. In a February 2018 policy memo, Krasner announced that his office no longer would file charges in any instances of marijuana possession, regardless of weight. And he told prosecutors not to file charges for any offenses relating to paraphernalia or buying from a person where the drug involved is marijuana. What has been done in Philly before Under a policy initiative implemented by former Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams in 2010, Philadelphia began arresting fewer people for marijuana possession. Philadelphia was already a leader among big cities in taking a more tolerant approach to people possessing small amounts of marijuana, a trend that culminated in a 2014 city ordinance championed by Kenney, then a city councilman, which cleared the way for police to issue $25 citations for possession of small amounts of marijuana. Arrests plummeted, and the number of noncriminal citations soared. Under Williams, the office had developed a Small Amounts of Marijuana (SAM) diversionary program. In the SAM court, anyone arrested with 30 grams or less of the drug agreed to pay $200 to take a three- to four-hour class, after which the charge was expunged. Arrest data From 2009 through 2017, the number of arrests for possession of opium, cocaine, and their derivatives (morphine, heroin, codeine) ranged from a low of 3,867 (in 2016) to 4,978 arrests (in 2017), according to city arrest data compiled on the Pennsylvania State Police website. In 2018, Krasners first year in office, there were 4,833 arrests for possession of those drugs. Marijuana-possession arrests decreased under Williams tenure. There were 5,590 arrests in 2010, his first year as district attorney. That number plummeted to 2,887 in 2014, and dropped to 703 in 2016, his last full year in office. In Krasners first year, 2018, there were 622 marijuana-possession arrests. Arrests for possession of synthetic narcotics also went down during Williams tenure. Arrests in 2010 totaled 814, compared with 629 in 2014, and 414 in 2016. In Krasners first year, there were 494 such arrests. Staff writer Mark Fazlollah contributed to this article. Clarence Walker, 97, is an usher for Sunday services at Holy Cross Baptist Church in Overbrook and a World War II veteran. Read more Meet Clarence Walker, a 97-year-old World War II veteran and church usher. A testament to his faith: Walker got the nickname the Testament Man in World War II, because I always had a testament in my shirt pocket. If you wanted to know something about the Bible, theyd say, See the Testament Man! Super senior model: When Walker signed up for his veterans benefits at age 95 the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs office asked him to model for a poster about how its never too late to apply. As a child, Clarence Walker chased his dream of becoming a church usher so fervently that his parents finally caved and allowed him to serve when he turned 5. All I wanted to do was help, he said. When Walkers draft notice came 16 years later, during World War II, he felt the same way. I said, Somebody has to do it. I dont mind helping.'" Now 97, Walker is still helping others. These days, its at Holy Cross Baptist Church in Overbrook, where he serves as an usher two Sundays a month as hes done for the last 55 years. First he dazzles them with the handsome smile, and then he makes them feel welcome, Holy Cross deacon Calvin Green said. Growing up in North, S.C., Walker was one of 11 children in a farming family. He dropped out of high school his sophomore year to work in a cafeteria to save enough money to someday leave the farm. But then World War II hit, and Walker, along with two of his brothers, was drafted into the Army. MORE WE THE PEOPLE: After decades as a cop, he became a yoga teacher Walker served in England and then in Normandy, where he arrived one month after D-Day. It looked like chaos, he said of Normandys shores. Ships were lined up that were bombed out and blocking the beach ... and there was still a few bodies in between." Walker was charged with setting up supply caves and overseeing German prisoners of war ordered to help the effort. But some enemy soldiers tried to hide in caves, and the Army had to burn them out, Walker said. We were there almost a year, and every time it got damp, you could still smell burnt flesh, he said. Walker was discharged in 1946 and awarded several medals, including two Bronze Stars. After briefly returning to South Carolina, he and his future bride, Birdie, made their way to Philly in 1947. Here, Walker worked at a Horn & Hardart Automat during the day, and at night, he attended Bok Technical High School on the G.I. Bill, where he studied to be a cobbler and machine operator. I got my training in the trades, but I didnt pursue them, because they didnt have nothing to eat, he said. Im a person who likes to eat, so I stayed at the restaurant. I only worked there 21 years." In the 1970s, Walker joined the General Services Administrations custodial force, first at the Philadelphia VA Medical Center and then at the federal courthouse at Sixth and Market Streets, where he retired in 1987. It was Green, his church deacon, who suggested two years ago that Walker should finally sign up for his veterans benefits. Were sitting there, and he gave the rep from the VA his papers, and right away the rep said, Wow! and called his supervisor, and they started taking pictures, Green said. The folks at the Philly VA asked Walker if hed pose for a poster with another elderly veteran, which they hung at the local medical center to remind others its never too late to apply for benefits. MORE WE THE PEOPLE: At 94, she works 6 days a week at a Giant bakery Walkers wife died in 2003 (he still wears his wedding ring), and hes the only surviving member of his 11 siblings. Much has changed in his 97 years, he said, including his West Philly neighborhood, where he now worries about getting shot by a stray bullet. Theres more people mad at more people now than there was during World War II, he said. But Walker doesnt let it stop him from going out, especially on Sundays, when he still gets to chase the dream he had as a child to be a church usher, to help. You take your chances, and you keep going, Walker said of life. And you keep looking up, because thats where the light comes from. Want more We the People? Jay McClellan started painting dog portraits to get over a loss. Now, his art is all over Philly. Margaret Downey, founder of the Freethought Society, believes that "atheism is the last taboo. Check out the full We the People archive here. In this April 10, 1998, file photo, from right, British Prime Minister Tony Blair, U.S. Sen. George Mitchell, and Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, pose together after they signed the Good Friday Agreement for peace in Northern Ireland. This set into place a historic power-sharing assembly, devolved from London, and a reduction in the British militarys operations in Northern Ireland. Read more In Philadelphia this week, a group of Irish men and women are gathered, reflecting the success of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement in bringing peace to Northern Ireland. But they worry that a looming Brexit and the British parliaments hapless efforts to exit the European Union are already threatening Irelands peace. And they wish that the United States, which god fathered the Good Friday deal, would take an active role in its preservation. They know from personal experience the ugliness that awaits Ireland if the accord fails. They are Eisenhower Exchange fellows part of a program that brings emerging leaders from abroad to meet their American contemporaries. They include fellows from a 1989 Island of Ireland group that brought Protestants and Catholics from British-ruled Northern Ireland together with citizens of the Republic of Ireland in the south at a time when cross-border and inter sectarian meetings were rare. They include 14 emerging Irish leaders, professors, politicians, civil servants, and other professionals who will have to cope with the dangerous mess Brexit is creating. These fellows talk about the madness of rebuilding nationalist walls that the EU helped tear down. David Lavery, one of the 1989 group, was a government lawyer in Belfast who had very little contact with the Republic" before becoming a fellow. The 300-mile border between north and south was guarded by British soldiers, and watchtowers, while the IRA (Irish Republican army) battled British soldiers and Protestant unionist paramilitaries. My best friend in university was murdered in 1979 [during the Troubles], he recalls. Working for a law firm, his friend was serving a policeman with a document in a troubled Republican area. As he left the police station, he was mistaken for an officer in civilian dress and was shot dead by an IRA activist. As he fell from his motorcycle, they shot him again on the ground, Lavery said. After 1989, Lavery had many cross-border meetings with his Eisenhower Exchange colleagues from the Republic, including Patrick Paddy Teahon. Lavory wound up on the British government negotiating team in 1996, while Teahon was on the Republic of Ireland team, working for the taoiseach (prime minister). I met Paddy when the teams met for the first time, and the benefits of the fellowship kicked in, Lavery says. We had a bit of trust. Ultimately those talks with stellar Clinton administration help produced the Good Friday Agreement, giving the north self-government and opening the border with the south. However, and this is key, the fact that Great Britain and Ireland were both in the European Union facilitated that open border, with no customs checks or barriers. People starting going up and down to shop for a day, bring the kids, recalls 1989 fellow Joyce OConnor, an education leader from the republic. People could live on one side and work on the other. The animosity was going down, road services [between north and south] increased, recalls prominent Presbyterian minister John Dunlop, a 1989 fellow from the north. Then came the 2016 Brexit referendum in Britain, and parliaments paralysis. If Britain crashes out of the EU, while the Republic of Ireland remains in, the border between the north and south of the Irish island would be reinstated. All the momentum we had generated, weve lost that in the past two years, Dunlop says. This prospect has already sent tensions flaring in Northern Ireland, as the leading Protestant party agitates for Brexit and Catholics oppose it. Brexit has been an awful experience, says Teahon. It has created this space where dissident Republicans renewed the view that there should be a united Ireland." Violence has returned, and a leading young journalist, Lyra McKee, was recently shot dead in Derry in a clash between radical Catholic youths and police. We see the creation of fear again, says OConnor. There is no certainty. For Dunlop, these dismal prospects make it critical that civic leaders, like the 2014 crop of fellows, work to make their voices heard. Like Katy Hayward, a Queens College Belfast expert on Brexit, who told me, EU membership made it all possible, the benefits to Ireland after the Good Friday Agreement. And Sonja Hyland, the Irish ambassador to Ethiopia, who rightly complained: It is hard to accept that [the issue of the Irish border] isnt relevant to so many in Westminster [the British parliament]. Indeed, hard-line Brexiteers, like former U.K. Foreign Minister Boris Johnson, have sneered at the border issue. The message I heard from these Irish civic leaders was clear: The restoration of borders within Ireland would be a disaster. And American political leadership, so critical to producing the Good Friday Agreement, would be most welcome in saving it. The fellows applauded U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for visiting Ireland and declaring that any Brexit deal must honor the Good Friday Agreement. (President Trump, unfortunately, is a Brexit cheerleader, but perhaps a visit to Ireland could enlighten him.) As they gather in Philadelphia, the Eisenhower Exchange fellows will all be wrestling with the conundrum of how to keep the border open and the Irish peace alive. Owners of the 2116 Chestnut high-rise apartment building are among the investors who have directly benefited the most from the 10-year-tax abatement program. Read more The May 21 primary will not only help decide the composition of City Council and the mayors and other offices. Voters will also be signaling their views on some key issues facing the city. The Inquirer Editorial Board continues our Primary School series, designed to take a deeper look at some of these issues. The issue: Philadelphia enacted the original 10-year tax abatement in 1997 for new construction and rehabilitated properties. At that time, depopulation and high vacancy rates for commercial buildings in Center City were a problem; the abatement helped spur a development boom that led to 11,000 new housing units being built between 1998 and 2005. In 2019, though, the fairness and the cost of the abatement are being questioned. The abatement has become a linchpin in the conversation about gentrification and displacement in the city. The argument for it: Proponents of the abatement, such as Mayor Jim Kenney, argue that it incentivizes construction in areas in which development would be too expensive otherwise. According to an analysis by City Controller Rebecca Rhynhart, the city added 15,000 properties in the last 15 years growing its share of real estate in the region. The argument against it: A majority of candidates running for Council and the majority of Philadelphia voters polled by The Inquirer want to end or reform it. They argue that the abatement gives a large tax break to affluent developers and homeowners at the expense of the School District and longtime residents. There is truth in this claim. According to the controller, only 7 percent of abated properties are worth more than $700,000, but those properties receive 51 percent of the tax benefit which totaled $93 million in 2017. What will happen if nothing changes? As Center City grows and adds jobs, the demand for housing expensive housing will grow as well. The abatement will continue to make it cheaper to build expensive apartments and to flip rowhouses. What are possible changes? There are a few proposals: Scale back the abatement to 8 years, Eliminate the abatement. Cap it at a certain value. Eliminate the School District portion. Adjust the abatement by neighborhood. What would be the fallout? Any change to the abatement would kick in after 10 years; currently abated properties wouldnt be affected. According to the controller, development wont stop completely if the abatement is eliminated or reformed but some changes are more disruptive to development than others, and in some neighborhoods the impact will be larger. The least disruptive reform that would generate the most revenue would be capping the abatement at the first $700,000 of assessment. The bottom line: The abatement was conceived when the city was bleeding jobs and population. Thats no longer the case in part because of the abatement. The abatement should be subject to constant reform and debate. At the same time, it shouldnt be scapegoated for gentrification, displacement, and a lack of affordable housing in Philadelphia. It is only one factor in the complex ecosystem of Philadelphia housing policy. Linda Watson covers her nose because she cant stand the smell after sewage backed up into the basement of the house she is renting in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia. Watsons landlord sent her an eviction notice after she withheld rent due to the conditions. Read more The rowhouse in Port Richmond looked promising, with three bedrooms, new floors, and a small white porch out front. After having moved three times in 15 months, Linda Watson hoped she'd found some stability there with her 21-year-old daughter and 12-year-old son. But come late October, the heat didn't work. It wasn't fixed for three cold months this winter, despite her repeated calls to the property managers for GoodHomes215 LLC, Watson said. (An attorney for the landlord did not return calls for this article, though court records show both parties later agreed to address the described repairs.) Watson bought four space heaters, driving her electricity bill up over $1,000. Then, sewer water started seeping into the basement. The family stopped paying rent. The eviction notice arrived in February. Watson is one of more than 20,000 people who will have eviction proceedings filed against them in Philadelphia in a typical year. That's nearly 1 in 14 renters. About half of them will be put out of their homes. With aging housing stock, rising rental costs, and a lack of affordable units, evictions have become a national crisis, more widely acknowledged since the publication of the 2017 Pulitzer Prize-winning book Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City, by Princeton University sociologist Matthew Desmond. "I'm sure I'm not the only one going through this," Watson said this week, still in her home as her case is pending in court. "I stopped paying to get him to pay attention to me. But then he turns around and says: 'You're living there and you're not paying. You can't stay for free.' " This month, Desmond's Eviction Lab released the first national evictions database. Until then, evictions weren't tracked in any meaningful way. Now cities including Philadelphia have started looking at their own numbers, which in some cases are startling. Philadelphia ranks fourth in total number of evictions. While it ranks 81st out of the 100 biggest cities for its eviction rate, according to the Eviction Lab, in some low-income neighborhoods as many as 15 percent of residents will have proceedings filed against them. Nationally, about 70 percent of eviction notices go to women of color. A study by the Reinvestment Fund found a high correlation between African American neighborhoods and evictions here. The Philadelphia numbers represent only evictions filed in court, not illegal lockouts. Within the last year, the city has changed requirements for landlords looking to remove their tenants, proposed legislation to make it harder for landlords to discriminate against tenants, and created a task force, which just this week released 17 recommendations for Philadelphia. "There's been a definite sea change," said Emily Dowdall of the Philadelphia Reinvestment Fund. "Before this data was available, people thought of evictions as stories that boiled down to bad tenants or bad landlords. But once you begin to see the scale of it, once you see it's happening nationally, you see it's not just some individual conflict but something structural or societal." Nearly half 47 percent of Philadelphians live in rental properties. Families are paying more for housing while money coming in remains largely flat. Landlords, meanwhile, often operate on slim economic margins and struggle to make building repairs. Watson left an apartment in Port Richmond that was infested with rats. She moved into a shelter with her son to save money for a new place. Because Watson's credit score was so low, the lease on the Port Richmond house is in the name of her daughter, Zakia Merrell. They pooled Social Security and Merrell's salary at a day-care center to cover the $1,000 monthly rent. Now Watson's fighting to stay in the home with the help of an attorney from the Legal Help Center. Michele Cohen, who's worked with more than 3,000 families, most of them facing evictions, over 15 years, said this case "is not an uncommon experience for tenants who live at or near the poverty level." "Many people believe that low-income tenants do not pay their rent because of the lack of money," Cohen said. "While this is often the case in many of the families that I assist, the family legally withholds their rent because the landlord is refusing to make repairs." Watson is in the minority of tenants about 8 percent represented in the city's landlord tenant court. Landlords have counsel about 81 percent of the time. One in three cases end in judgments for the landlord because the tenant doesn't show up. Regardless of the outcome of a proceeding, the filing stays on the Municipal Court docket, searchable by landlords, for the rest of a tenant's life. The city's Eviction Task Force has recommended all fillings and judgments be expunged after three years except for those cases in which there is no judgment against tenants. Those should be expunged immediately, they wrote. More legal aid The city in January announced a $500,000. six-month commitment to improve access to legal representation to tenants. It's modest compared with the $155 million New York City spends to provide counsel for any renter whose income falls at less than 200 percent of the poverty line. A court navigator circulates courtrooms to answer questions about the legal process. An attorney and a paralegal from Community Legal Services staff a Landlord/Tenant Help Center from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays. They can accommodate nine people a day. A separate lawyer-for-a-day can advise five more people each day. There is usually a long waiting list for both. These programs might not continue past July. The money, which city spokeswoman Ajeenah Amir described as a one-time increase, is not in next year's budget. "We look forward to working with City Council through this year's budget process," she said. Councilwoman Helen Gym, who pushed for the initiative, said she's hoping the money is restored. "This is something that needs to be expanded, not just re-upped," she said. Changes to court procedures In January, landlord tenant court started asking landlords to attach a proof of rental license and certificate of rental suitability to any eviction filing. Landlords who can't prove that their dwelling is up to code or that they have a license to rent now have a tougher time evicting tenants or collecting back rent. There is some evidence that the procedural change has cut down the number of evictions filed. In the first three months of 2018, such actions were down about 300 each month compared with the same months in 2016 and 2017, according to court data compiled by Philadelphia Legal Assistance. Legislation Landlords don't need a reason to tell a tenant to leave once the lease has expired, and since so many people live on month-to-month leases, that can mean short notice for renters. City Council is considering a "just cause" eviction bill, which would require landlords to demonstrate why they are not renewing a lease or are evicting a tenant. It would not protect people who are priced out of their apartments after a landlord chooses to renovate and raise the rent or sell the building. The Homeowners Association of Philadelphia (HAPCO), which represents landlords, opposes the bill. "The majority of the evictions that are done in landlord tenant court are done for nonpayment of rent," said Victor Pinckney, vice president of the organization. "People don't have jobs. They need money, and the city is trying to turn landlords into a social service. The bottom line is, most of us who are in this business are in it to feed our families." Looking ahead The draft report from the city Eviction Task Force this week makes 17 recommendations, including: Low-interest loans for small landlords to make repairs. A pre-complaint resolution process for tenants and landlords to come to agreements before an eviction is filed. Increased legal representation for low-income tenants. Working with the state legislature and Municipal Court to expunge eviction filings and judgments. "If we're evicting people in our city for less than $500 or $600 for rent and instead absorbing thousands and thousands of dollars in expending services to support these individuals, we have to know we can do it better," said Gym, a task force member. Watson and her daughter agreed in court to start paying rent, once the landlord makes the repairs. Meanwhile, the place is sparsely furnished, the walls mostly blank. "When you move into a property, you don't really know the situation," she said. "We don't know if the water's going to leak, is the heat going to work? You can't go stand on top of the roof. So you move in, and then things start to happen." Philadelphia Media Network is one of 19 news organizations producing "Broke in Philly," a collaborative reporting project on solutions to poverty and the city's push toward economic justice. Follow us at @BrokeInPhilly. In the 2018 midterm election, more than 1,000 absentee ballots arrived after the deadline and were not counted. Read more Most Pennsylvania voters this election will cast their ballots at the polls on election day. But for those who cant make it in person on May 21, absentee voting is available. Be aware: Voting absentee is a multi-step process that can take several days or longer. If youre planning on voting absentee, dont delay, or your vote might go uncounted. Pennsylvania voters have until 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, to request a ballot, and the completed ballot must be received by county elections officials by 5 p.m. Friday, May 17, or it wont be counted. Heres what you need to know. Who can vote absentee? In Pennsylvania, you need to have a reason for voting absentee, including physical disability or illness. The most common one is being away from home on election day though that applies only to voters who will be away from the municipality in which they live. If you live in Philly and will work on election day all day in the city, youre not eligible for an absentee ballot. How to vote absentee First, voters must apply. The application is a paper form that, even if you fill it out online, must be mailed or hand-delivered to county elections officials. Find the form here in multiple languages. To be accepted, that application must arrive by 5 p.m. Tuesday. Once an application is approved, county elections officials send a paper ballot in the mail. Fill out the ballot, place it in the envelope, sign the envelope, and then mail it or hand-deliver it. Any ballots arriving after 5 p.m. May 17 will be rejected. Why you shouldnt wait In Pennsylvania, the absentee ballot deadlines are strict and the timelines are tight. What matters is when a ballot is received by elections officials, not when it is mailed. And mail delivery can be unpredictable. If you wait, you risk your ballots arriving after the deadline and being rejected. Last fall, as turnout surged in the midterm election, thousands of voters had their absentee ballots rejected for arriving late. The deadlines may change in the future lawmakers have proposed changing the deadlines and civil rights groups are suing the state but for now, the timeline is tight. Plan on voting absentee? Dont wait. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, right, is greeted by Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in central London, Wednesday May 8, 2019. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in London for talks with British officials on the status of the special relationship between the nations amid heightened tensions with Iran and uncertainty over Britain's exit from the European Union. (Mandel Ngan/Pool via AP) Read more Secretary of State Mike Pompeo fired a broadside of criticism at the U.K.'s approach to national security, demanding America's long-standing ally takes a far tougher approach to China and Iran, and to hurry up and deliver Brexit. Pompeo's remarks, during a trip to the U.K., risked a diplomatic argument with one of the U.S.'s closest allies, just a month before President Donald Trump is scheduled to pay a formal state visit to Queen Elizabeth II. His criticism comes at a particularly sensitive time for Prime Minister Theresa May, who is struggling to complete Britain's divorce from the European Union and under daily pressure to resign. In his speech, Pompeo risked an unflattering and undiplomatic comparison with Britain's first female prime minister -- urging the U.K. to think of what the so-called Iron Lady, the late Margaret Thatcher would do, faced with the same global challenges. Now is "the exact opposite time to go wobbly," Pompeo told an audience in London's Lancaster House, one of the most prestigious diplomatic venues in the British capital. "Ask yourself this: would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion?" he said. "Would she allow China to control the internet of the future? I know it's a sensitive topic, but we have to talk about sensitive things, as friends." He said it was a matter of Chinese law that the Chinese government can demand access to data flowing through Huawei systems, which the U.K. hasn't ruled out as a supplier for next-generation 5G communications networks. The U.K. is a a linchpin of the international "Five Eyes" intelligence-sharing alliance that includes the U.S. and Pompeo has warned that doing business with Huawei might come at the expense of continue to exchange secrets. "Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace?" he said. "What can Her Majesty's Government do to make sure sensitive technologies don't become open doors for Beijing's spymasters?" Pompeo's comments represent a blunt critique of Britain's approach to security. The U.K. government is in the process of weighing up the role the networking giant will play in Britain's new telecoms network. The reason allies are on edge is because so-called 5G technology is critical to everything from artificial intelligence to driverless cars. The U.S. has already urged allies to ban the Chinese provider from running sensitive 5G telecoms infrastructure but May's administration is said to be considering allowing Huawei a limited role. Pompeo spoke after a meeting with May and talks with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. In his speech, the top U.S. diplomat turned to the differences of approach between the two allies over the handling of the nuclear threat from Iran. While there is "no daylight" between Britain and America on the severity of the threat emanating from the Iranian regime, May's government should take a harder line, he said. "I urge the U.K. to stand with us to rein in the regime's bloodletting and lawlessness, not soothe the Ayatollahs angry at our decision to pull out of the nuclear deal. If this is about something like commerce, let's open markets together. I know that we can." In perhaps the comments most likely to cause embarrassment to his hosts, Pompeo then complained that May's handling of Brexit was delaying the talks on a U.K.-U.S. trade deal that Trump is impatient to strike. "President Trump is eager for a new free trade agreement that will take our Number 1 trade relationship to unlimited new heights," Pompeo said. "We've filed all the papers we can at this point. We're ready to go. But we can't make progress on a new agreement until Brexit gets resolved -- God speed and good luck." - - - Bloombergs Thomas Penny and Nick Wadhams contributed. About a dozen of Gov. Tom Wolf's senior aides are starting his second term with pay raises that ranged from $25,000 to $33,000. (TOM GRALISH / Staff Photographer, File) Read more HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) About a dozen of Gov. Tom Wolf's senior aides are starting his second term with pay raises that ranged from $25,000 to $33,000. The recipients include members of the Democratic governor's public relations staff and deputy chiefs of staff who coordinate between the governor's office and various executive branch departments. Wolf approved the raises late last year, after winning re-election. Five deputy chiefs of staff saw their salaries increase by 27%, or $32,000, to $148,000. Wolf spokesman J.J. Abbott said the increases are about what similar employees earn in the private sector and reflect the recipients' responsibilities. Abbott received a $9,000 raise to $125,000, and three deputy press secretaries saw their income increase by more than $25,000 to $118,000. Wolf's scheduler saw an increase of $33,000 to $125,000. "The governor's office is responsible for the functions of a 70,000-person, $80 billion organization that is the second-largest employer in Pennsylvania," Abbott said. "These positions are some of the most high-level in state government, are responsible for overseeing the entire or specific work of multiple major state agencies." The deputy chiefs of staff had been hired as special assistants in the $100,000 salary range, he said, and were given additional responsibilities with the new titles. Abbott said deputy chiefs of staff under Wolf's predecessor, Republican Gov. Tom Corbett, were paid $145,000 at the end of Corbett's tenure. The higher pay for the press aides was designed to put them on par with spokespeople working in other parts of state government under Wolf's jurisdiction, Abbott said. Wolf, who approved the raises, is a wealthy businessman who largely self-funded his successful 2014 primary. He donates his gubernatorial salary to United Way organizations across the state. Subulaxmi was working in a private firm near Peelamedu. When her sister and her family left for Ooty for the summer holidays on Tuesday, Subulaxmi was alone at home. COIMBATORE: A 23-year-old woman was found with her hands tied and hanging inside her house under mysterious circumstances, near Masakalipalayam here, on Wednesday. According to police, the victim Subulaxmi, was a native of Thuthukudi Ezhil Nagar. A couple of years back, she came to Coimbatore and was staying at her sister's house at Masakalipalayam. Subulaxmi was working in a private firm near Peelamedu. When her sister and her family left for Ooty for the summer holidays on Tuesday, Subulaxmi was alone at home. Neighbours found the doors closed for a long time on Wednesday morning. There was no response even after they knocked the doors for a long time. When they looked through the window, they saw Subulaxmi hanging from the ceiling fan, with her hands tied. They called the Singanallur police. Sub-inspector Kasipandiyan along with a team broke open the door and entered the house. They found the rear doors of the house open. They retrieved the body and sent it to the Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH) for postmortem. Police suspect it to be a case of murder and have started investigations. With general contractor Stephen Jenkins, Lauren Lipowicz, 38, has found herself to be the real estate agent who gets millennials into houses on the Main Line, here at 1220 Gladwyne Drive, Gladwyn, Pa., Aug. 9, 2018. DAVID SWANSON / Staff Photographer . Read more About two years ago, husband-and-wife real estate team Paul and Lauren Lipowicz started to notice a shift in their clients idea of a suburban dream home. Basically, a mini-McMansion on a Main Line cul-de-sac miles from the nearest coffee shop was just not doing it anymore. So they rejiggered their sales strategy. Instead of taking young professionals to see new houses far from town centers, the Lipowiczes introduced them to modest homes on blocks near reemerging main streets from Bala Cynwyd to Wayne. After a long day at work, sunset savasana or a specialty beer would be just around the corner. My clients wanted to walk to dinner in the evenings, grab a drink at the local neighborhood bar without the production of getting in their car, Lauren Lipowicz said. Living in walkable neighborhoods was definitely starting to factor into quality-of-life needs." But old-school, neighborhood appeal was just a part of the pitch from the Lipowiczes, who work under the Keller-Williams umbrella. Think of them as being along the lines of HGTVs Property Brothers: He works the numbers; she spearheads the design, right down to the structures "dependable bones. If prospective homeowners want a center island in their kitchen, the Lipowiczes will make it happen and then some. There isnt a load-bearing wall we are afraid of, Paul Lipowicz said assuredly. In this way, the Lipowiczes both 38 are doing their little part to remake the Main Line. Not only are the couple turning century-old homes into modern, loft-like abodes, they are helping millennials buy in zip codes they thought it would take them years to afford. For example, according to TownCharts.com, a website with national demographic data, 42 percent of people who live in Lower Merion Township (not including school-age children) are at least 50 years old. The Lipowiczes say their clients, for the most part, are at least a decade younger some still in their 30s. People buying in these neighborhoods are young families coming from the city, Paul said. Then these same families become move-up buyers a few years later. Like the young families in the generations before them who exited Philadelphia for the suburbs, they crave space and better school districts. But unlike those driveway-starved parents, they arent 100 percent ready to give up the convenience that comes with the bustle. Its kind of a gentrification of the suburbs, if you will. But instead of buying cheaply in depressed neighborhoods a stones throw from Center City, the Lipowiczes clients are finding deals paying $500,000 to $900,0000 in burgs that boast homes worth several millions. We dont want people to be intimidated about the Main Line, said Lauren, who notes that she and Paul arent about flipping houses. Her clients plan to stay put for at least a decade. We see potential in houses that people would roll their eyes at. Honestly, the uglier the better. Take Scott and Jessica Levin, for example. When the couple Scott, a doctor, and Jessica, a stay-at-home mom of two preschoolers first saw the 3,000-square-foot house on a tiny street across from Haverfords White Dog Cafe, the reaction was akin to Ick. The outside was a sad, yellow stucco, and the entire first floor was the same sickly, pastel hue. Floor-to-ceiling walls starkly separated the rooms on the first floor. And the kitchen was so tiny that you couldnt even fit a breakfast table, let alone an island. All I cared about was being able to walk to places, Jessica Levin said. "But we could see the potential, so we went for it. The Lipowiczes oversaw a six-month renovation, which included tearing down walls and building in wet bars. Now, the only wall on the first floor is a double fireplace. And the entire home down to the clothing in the childrens closet is black and white. This kind of open floor plan was exactly what we wanted, Jessica said. In that we wanted the kids to have room but wanted to feel like we were in a city. As in many millennial minimalist homes, the furniture is pretty sparse. Instead of getting new radiators, Jessica had the old ones acid-dipped and powder-coated a glossy black. (So far theyve done only the ones downstairs.) The family put in new Ikea kitchen cabinets with custom fronts. (One of Laurens dirty little design secrets.) And instead of track lighting in the bedroom, the Levins spent the two grand on a Peloton bike. In this health-conscious age bracket, that was a no-brainer. Nobody wants Oriental rugs and living rooms they dont really live in anymore, Lauren Lipowicz said. Just like how we are dressing, people want houses they are comfortable in that make them happy every day, not just special occasions." Lauren was born in Cheltenham and spent time in Horsham before she and her siblings moved in with her father, a jeweler, in Penn Valley when she was in ninth grade. We lived in a very modest house, Lauren said. But it was the first time that I felt like I had a home and a real family to go home to. Thats why, to me, the Main Line isnt that stuffy place. It was a place that welcomed me. Lauren graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and got her first taste of the real estate world when she landed a gig leasing apartments in Cheltenhams Cedarbrook neighborhood. From there, she was recruited by Toll Brothers, where from 2006 to 2010 she sold condominiums in the companys Naval Square development in Philadelphias Graduate Hospital neighborhood. There she connected with many a first-time home buyer who eventually become a Main Line client. It was about then she got serious with then-boyfriend, Paul, a waiter back in the day. But Lauren, who can be quite convincing, suggested he go into real estate with her. They married and now have two daughters. So as they packed up their Center City apartment and moved to the suburbs, they began refocusing their business on the Main Line. And with the real estate sales changing their contemporaries were actually buying houses online they decided to add another element to their business: home decor. Given that they were in the same place in life, they knew what their clients wanted. I understand the importance of being in close proximity to both a Whole Foods and a SoulCycle, Lauren said. Young city dwellers just didnt want to give that up. Clients Kristine Dugan and Adam Grutzmacher, both in their early 40s, were looking to buy their second home. At first, they were interested only in new construction. But after looking at several seven-figure houses and thinking that they wanted to redo everything, they settled on a house built in 1974 on a cul-de-sac within walking distance of their daughters school and the Gladwyne Market, where they can pick up dinner and sit in the coffee shop. The house, however, required a full-gut renovation: new kitchen, bathrooms, and floors. They added a dining space and a butlers pantry. I didnt want to get in a house and after a few years rip things out a little at a time, Dugan said. Now I have the house I want, and at the end of the day, I was able to save money. And that, the Lipowiczes say, is the whole point. Raptor fans mock Joel Embiid for his flying celebration during game 3 of the series as he leaves their NBA Eastern Conference semifinal game at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on May 7, 2019. Read more TORONTO -- As Joel Embiid left Game Five, sick and tired and hopeless with 9 minutes, 5 seconds to play, he promised hip-hop star Drake that the Sixers would win Game Six in Philadelphia on Thursday and force a Game Seven here Sunday. Drake, who sits on the Raptors sideline, responded by standing up and mimicking Embiids trademark airplane celebration as play recommenced. Embiid and Drake, a Toronto native and the Raptors Global Ambassador, are friends. He even brought Embiid out to attempt money-making shots at his concert in Philadelphia in September. There is no enmity between them, but, as the Sixers fell, 125-89 in Game Five of the Eastern Conference semifinal to go down three games to two, Embiid wasnt joking, either. Were definitely going to do everything," Embiid said. Hes always tells me to shoot the ball. Were going to find ways. Asked if he told Drake hed return Sunday, Embiid replied, Yes. Asked if he cared that Drake led the 20,287 at Scotiabank Arena in mocking one of Embiids celebrations, Embiid said he doesnt regret being known for his on-court celebrations, and he didnt see Drake and the Raptors fans copying his: I didnt notice. I just saw them shake their bodies. Good for them. Like I said -- I dont care if it offends anybody. Its all about having fun. I dont care. Im going to do that because Im going to dominate. WEST CHESTER The holiday standard Blue Christmas has its own meaning in Chester County these days, as the number of registered Democrats in the last month of the year here continues to rise, the partys edge over its Republican counterpart widens, and more municipalities see their political map colors turn from purplish magenta to [] The boy was handed over to his parents, while the accused were remanded to judicial custody by the Pahadishareef police on Wednesday. Hyderabad: The Rachakonda police on Wednesday rescued a 6-month old boy and apprehended the two persons involved in his kidnapping. The boy was handed over to his parents, while the accused were remanded to judicial custody by the Pahadishareef police on Wednesday. The boy, son of Soni and Narender, went missing from a family friends house in Padahishareef on May 3. Subsequently, a case was filed at the Pahadishareef police station and a special team was formed to rescue the baby. During the probe, the police found that one Shaik Ahmed from Nanded had kidnapped the boy. Following his arrest, the boy was traced to Mir Fayaz Ali of Shaheennagar. The Rachakonda police commissioner Mahesh Bhagwat explained that the accused Ahmed, a native of Nanded, Maharashtra, had migrated to the city and had been earning his livelihood as an autorickshaw driver. He said that Mahesh had developed friendly relations with Sonis mother-in-law and had thereafter begun to visit their house occasionally. With the intent to sell Sonis son, he invited the family to spend the night at his place. While the others were asleep, he abducted the boy and sold him to Fayaz for `10,000. Then, he fled to his native place. But we managed to trace and arrest him. The baby was rescued from Fayaz and handed over to his parents on Wednesday, the commissioner said. In 1868 a small out of the way spot was designated Rock Ranch. It was made up of a tent, a slab shack with a chimney, and one square shed. One year later this would become Pine Bluffs. By 1884 Pine Bluffs would become the largest cattle shipping point of the Union Pacific (UP) Railroad at its peak running over 800,000 head of cattle through the Texas Trail. A constant visitor to the station was the last steam engine built for the UP Railroad, the Living Legend #844. In a cloud of steam and the shriek of a whistle a historic moment was witnessed by thousands at the Cheyenne Depot on Saturday, May 4th the Living Legend #844 and the Big Boy #4014 rolled into the station beginning a cross country trip that will end with a ceremony at Promontory Summit, Utah on May 10, 2019, exactly 150 years after the completion of the transcontinental railroad. With all the pomp and circumstance afforded to the most prominent citizen the two steam engines shuddered into the station amidst the cheers and adulation of several hundred onlookers, many who traveled from as far away as Germany to attend the celebration. Though the Big Boy 4014 was christened in 1941, long after the birth of Pine Bluffs, The importance of the railroad to the city of Pine Bluffs is immeasurable. Small town America has survived and thrived thanks to the work and services provided by the railroad. "Union Pacific is creating a history... We are building an economy, we are building a community with your help. Over 1000 employees call Wyoming home, and we consider each and every one of them family." Said UP President and CEO Lance Fritz. The value of the Wyoming railroad worker was seen in spades on that Saturday. The 4014 Big Boy was a wonder to look at. "It's just breathtaking when you're near it." Said Fritz. A majority of the parts needed for one of the largest steam locomotives in the world were made from scratch, never having built a 1.2 million pound engine before. The Big Boy was taken out of service July 21, 1959, after it had traveled 1,031,205 miles in more than18 years, and was displayed in Pomona, California. In 2013 the Big Boy was brought to Wyoming and thus began two years of comprehensive restoration. Although there are eight Big Boys in existence, the 4014 is the only one in working order thanks to the tireless efforts of the Wyoming railroad workers. GLENN SMITHEY/Pine Bluffs Post Above: Big Boy 4014 rolls out of the depot in Cheyenne. When speaking about the importance of small town Wyoming to the UP Railroad Senior Vice President of Corporate Relations Scott Moore said, "Some towns became bigger, some became smaller, and some died out completely, but all are rich in pieces of history and vital to the UP Railroad at one time or another." Pine Bluffs played a vital role in that history. The Living Legend #844 stopped in Pine often at the depot. The last steam locomotive built for UP was a consistent visitor to the area carrying passengers from 1944 to 1957 until diesel engines took over passenger fares. The #844 was saved from the scrap yard in 1960 and remains today as one of the favorite trains of railroad enthusiasts. Watching these trains come into the station was like taking a trip back in time. The whistle, the steam, and the sheer size of the giants was awe inspiring, and I, for one, am glad I got to see it. Follow the partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America Action Here at PokerNews May 07, 2019 Matthew Pitt The Playground Poker Club in Montreal, Canada is gearing up to host the 2019 partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America festival and PokerNews is joining them to bring you live coverage of three massive events. PokerNews live reporting team will be on the tournament floor bringing you all of the updates from the MILLIONS North America Main Event (May 21-26), the CA$10,300 High Roller (May 23-25), and the CA$25,300 Super High Roller (May 25-26). If last years festival is anything to go by, were in for a real treat. Taylor Black is the reigning MILLIONS North America champion having outlasted 1,953 players in last years Main Event. That tournament was a CA$5,300 buy-in with CA$10 million guaranteed with this latest edition costing CA$10,300 to enter and featuring a CA$5 million guarantee. The first of two CA$10,300 High Rollers at the previous MILLIONS North America saw David Eldridge top a field of 80 to bank CA$300,000 with the Czech Republics Michael Sklenicka netting CA$242,370 from the second CA$10,300 High Roller that attracted 126 entries. The reigning champion of the CA$25,300 Super High Roller is a player who wished to remain anonymous. It was a star-studded affair that drew in 47 entries and saw a final table house the likes of Niall Farrell, Chance Kornuth, Darren Elias, and runner-up Anthony Zinno. partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America Schedule Date Time Tournament Buy-in Mon 13 May 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1A: CA$100K Gtd CA$220 Tue 14 May 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1B: CA$100K Gtd CA$220 Wed 15 May 12:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1C: CA$100K Gtd (Turbo) CA$220 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 1D: CA$100K GTD CA$220 Thu 16 May 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Day 2 Fri 17 May 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1A: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 5:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1B: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 7:00 p.m. Playground 200 Final Day Sat 18 May 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1C: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 5:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1D: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 Sun 19 May 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1E: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 5:00 p.m. Montreal Open Day 1F: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats CA$1,100 6:00 p.m. Super High Roller Day 1 CA$25,300 Mon 20 May 10:00 a.m. Montreal Open Day 1A: CA$1M Gtd +15 Main Event seats (6-Max Turbo) CA$1,100 1:00 p.m. Super High Roller Final Day CA$25300 3:30 p.m. Montreal Open Day 2 Tue 21 May 12:00 p.m. MILLONS North America Day 1A: CA$5M Gtd CA$10,300 12:00 p.m. Montreal Open Final Day Wed 22 May 12:00 p.m. MILLONS North America Day 1B: CA$5M Gtd CA$10,300 12:00 p.m. 8 Max: CA$50K Gtd CA$550 Thu 23 May 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Day 2 1:00 p.m. High Roller Day 1: CA$1M Gtd CA$10,300 Fri 24 May 11:00 a.m. Playground 1000 Day 1: CA$100K Gtd CA$1,100 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Day 3 1:00 p.m. High Roller Day 2 CA$10,300 7:00 p.m. Big Bounty $500: CA$30K Gtd CA$660 Sat 25 May 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Day 4 12:00 p.m. Playground 1000 Day 2 1:00 p.m. High Roller Final Day 6:00 p.m. Super High Roller Day 1 CA$25,300 7:00 p.m. Bounty $100 CA$40K Gtd CA$330 Sun 26 May 11:00 a.m. 6 Max: CA$50K Gtd CA$550 12:00 p.m. MILLIONS North America Final Day 1:00 p.m. Playground 1000 Final Day 1:00 p.m. Super High Roller Final Day 7:00 p.m. Pot Limit Omaha Bounty: CA$10K GTD CA$330 MILLIONS North America Promotions A bunch of great promotions are running for the MILLIONS North America Main Event. The first sees the first 100 players to buy into the Main Event using PP LIVE Dollars receive CA$1,000 cash expenses. At the time of writing, 50 such prizes remained so hurry if you want what is essentially a free CA$1,000. The second promotion revolves around finding the ultimate poker couple. Team partypokers Kristen Bicknell and her partner Alex Foxen are entering the MILLIONS North America Main Event. If you and a partner enter and perform better than Bicknell and Foxen, a 12,000 package to the upcoming MILLIONS Europe at Kings Resort, Rozvadov is awarded. You can read more about this promotion here. Bookmark Our Live Reporting Pages Bookmark our live reporting pages, so you do not miss any of the action from three of the most significant events taking place at the partypoker LIVE MILLIONS North America festival. Wadih Kaawar & Clyde Lorance Win Way onto Poker After Dark Via RGPS May 07, 2019 Brent Harrington The final two players in the RunGood Poker Series (RGPS) Showbound Satellite, which played out on Monday, were Clyde Lorance, who eliminated Kyle Kinder three-handed to burst the bubble, and Wadih Kaawar. The two dup each won a $5,000 sit-n-go seat on Poker After Dark to be filmed at the PokerGO studio in Las Vegas. The satellite was the culmination of the RGPS Showbound season, which saw players qualify for seats into the invite-only satellite by either final tabling the Main Event or winning a side event in one of the half a dozen stops. Family Man Headed to Vegas Lorance is a real estate developer from Springfield, Missouri who is turning 70 in September. He watches a lot of Poker After Dark with his wife Carol, to who he has been married for 47 years and has had two children and four grandkids with. He said he wanted to play against "the best," when asked who he'd like to face off against on PokerGO. Lorance served in the Marines during Vietnam and was shot by an AK-47 on October 12, 1969. "I spent several months in the hospital and I've been thankful ever since that I survived," he said. Lorance qualified for the Showbound satellite thanks to a ninth-place finish in the RGPS Downstream main event. The same event which Kinder won for his first and only tournament cash. Kyle Kinder bubbled in third place to leave empty handed. Kaawar to Take on the Pros Kaawar was working in hotel management in San Diego before he transitioned to full-time poker around the poker boom. He's currently living in Arlington, Texas. Kaawar was more sad for Kinder bubbling the satellite than he was making it onto Poker After Dark himself. As a professional, he's excited for the chance to freeroll a $5,000 sit-n-go. In the final hand of the tournament, Kinder put his last 35,000 chips at risk on a nine-four-three rainbow board. Lorance called with ace-three against the eight-three of Kinder and held. Others that participated in the invite-only satellite were Dan Martin, Heather Alcorn, Blair Hinkle, Matt Newcomb, Papa Karn, Nick Petree, Nick Burris, Corey Hodgeman, Mike Childers, and Julie Cornelius, among others. Lorance and Kaawar will play on Poker After Dark later this year. Additionally, the new season of the Global Poker Award-winning RGPS will begin after the 2019 World Series of Poker. 3.6k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Massachusetts senator and 2020 presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren tore Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to shreds on Tuesday for not understanding Americas system of checks and balances. In an interview with MSNBCs Chris Hayes, the Democratic lawmaker said that Robert Mueller made it clear that he is leaving it to Congress to hold Trump accountable. Mueller makes these facts absolutely clear in his report, Warren said of the obstruction evidence against Trump. So when Mitch McConnell today took to the floor and said, Case over, case over. Were done. No, we are not. Video: Elizabeth Warren says Robert Mueller made it clear that Trump obstructed justice and Congress must act now. #ctl #p2 pic.twitter.com/nBjGSMl0Kh PoliticusUSA (@politicususa) May 8, 2019 Sen. Warren said: Mueller makes these facts absolutely clear in his report. It is pretty clear when you read it that the only reason, as I read it, that he did not actually bring an indictment because he clearly has all the facts, is he was following the Justice Department of the Trump administration saying a sitting president cannot be criminally indicted. But he served up on a silver platter all of those facts to the United States Congress. Because in a constitutional system with checks and balances, its up to Congress to make sure that the president is not above the law. So when Mitch McConnell today took to the floor and said, Case over, case over. Were done. No, we are not. No. And its time to stand up and say so. McConnell is leading the cover-up effort in Congress While William Barr has done his best to protect Trump from his post in the Justice Department, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is spearheading the cover-up effort in Congress. With his speech on the Senate floor on Tuesday, McConnell is essentially saying that Congress is no longer part of a separate and equal branch of government meant to provide crucial checks and balances over a lawless president. Instead, with McConnell leading the GOP Senate, the upper chamber of Congress has essentially become an extension of the Trump White House. If Mitch McConnell believes the Congress should give up its oversight authority and bow down to Trump, then hes in the wrong line of work. Follow Sean Colarossi on Facebook and Twitter 2.7k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard There were at least three big secrets that Trump was hiding with his tax returns, and now they have all been exposed. Lawrence ODonnell said on MSNBC, The New York Times report tells us three big things. One, Donald Trump doesnt pay taxes. Two, Donald Trump loses massive amounts of money in business. And three, Donald Trump has always been financially dependent on his father. Those are all things that Donald Trump does not want voters to know about his financial life. All of those things clash with the image of a successful businessman that Donald Trump presents to his supporters. Video: There were at least three big secrets that Trump was hiding with his tax returns, and now they have all been exposed. https://t.co/V3H1Lyxsm2 pic.twitter.com/X3WBHKF94K PoliticusUSA (@politicususa) May 8, 2019 Trump is a tax dodging fraud The reasons why Trump is so afraid of his tax returns being released are, in part, what many Americans already thought. Donald Trump doesnt pay taxes. He is a terrible businessperson, and he has never made money on his own. The myth that Trump sold to voters in 2016 was that of an intelligent person who has known success in the business world. The reality is that Trump is an empty-headed failure trust fund baby who has relied on daddys money to get by for his entire life. Trump has never had to work for a paycheck. His father or someone else like a Russian oligarch was always there to catch him when he fell. Trump is a fake, but the most politically damaging revelation is that he pays no taxes. Donald Trump already thought of uncaring and out of touch with the problems of everyday Americans, so the revelation that he doesnt pay taxes is the icing on the cake and the confirmation that the failed business con man has no place in the Oval Office. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 287 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard House Speaker Pelosi: Trump making impeachment case by ignoring subpoenas WASHINGTON (Reuters) U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Wednesday President Donald Trump was moving closer to impeachment with his effort to thwart congressional subpoenas and obstruct lawmakers efforts to oversee his administration. Every single day the president is making the case and hes becoming self-impeachable, Pelosi said in an interview with the Washington Post, when asked about the possibility of the Republican president being impeached by the House. Trump on Wednesday asserted executive privilege over Special Counsel Robert Muellers report on Russian meddling in the 2016 campaign and its underlying investigative materials, escalating the battle with the Democrats on the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. The move came shortly before the House Judiciary Committee was to vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt for defying a congressional subpoena to hand over the full unredacted report. The Judiciary Committee is one of number of committees in the Democratic-controlled House that are investigating Trump and his administration on multiple fronts, including White House security clearances and Trumps personal and business dealings. The House and Senate still are investigating Russian election meddling and possible obstruction of justice by Trump. Muellers report cited extensive contacts between Trumps 2016 campaign and Moscow but did not find a (editor note: The redacted report did not find *prosecutable* evidence of conspiracy, partly due to lack of cooperation by Trump and his people, but it did establish Trump being open to illegal help from the Russians) conspiracy between Moscow and the campaign. It also described actions that Trump took to try to impede the investigation and congressional Democrats have vowed to continue their own probe into the issue. Trump has denied any wrongdoing and vowed to fight all congressional subpoenas. U.S. Attorney General William Barr faces a contempt citation by the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday for failing to comply with lawmakers requests, while former White House lawyer Don McGahn faces a similar threat. U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin also has defied Congress, this week not acting on the House Ways and Means Committees request for Trumps tax returns. Republicans, who control the U.S. Senate, have dismissed House Democrats investigations as political posturing ahead of the 2020 presidential election. Democrats are divided over how far to take their investigations with some calling for impeachment proceedings and others backing continued panel investigations. The president wants to goad us unto impeachment, Pelosi told the Post. Such proceedings would also be divisive for the country, she said. (Reporting by Richard Cowan; Editing by Bernadette Baum and Bill Trott) 1.7k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard House Judiciary committee chairman Jerry Nadler shot down Trumps claim of executive privilege to hide the Mueller report. Trump is using executive privilege to hide the Mueller report Sarah Sanders released a statement: Statement on Executive Privilege pic.twitter.com/6ujCZDnMC0 Sarah Sanders (@PressSec) May 8, 2019 Jerry Nadler wrecks Trumps executive privilege claim House Judiciary Committee chairman Rep. Jerry Nadler responded that Trump has already waved executive privilege, In response to our latest good faith offer, the department abruptly announced that if we move forward today, it will ask President Trump to invoke what on all the materials subject to our subpoena. Just minutes ago, it took that dramatic step. Besides misapplying the doctrine of executive privilege, since the White House waived these privileges long ago and the department seemed open to sharing these materials with us just yesterday, this decision represents a clear escalation and the trump administrations blanket defiance of Congress constitutionally mandated duties. I hope that the department will think better of this last-minute outburst and return to negotiations. Video of Nadler: Nader is right. Trump waved his executive privilege, and this is nothing more than a stall tactic. Trump doesnt want the House to get the Mueller report, and especially the underlying evidence, because it could be used to impeach him. Trump is digging his hole deeper with the American people, and only making it worse for himself after Democrats win and get the full Mueller report. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 1.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) slammed Trumps Republican enablers and told them that individual one would already be in prison if he werent president. Steve Cohen drops the reality hammer on Trumps defenders Rep. Cohen said, Why would he be financially dependent on the Russians? Well, we now know he lost over $1 billion over a decade in the 80s and 90s. He was broke. No bank would lend him a penny. If it werent for him being president, he would be in prison with Michael Cohen today as individual one, and he obstructed justice as the Mueller report says so. We are in danger. We need to respond. And we need to act for the people of the United States of America. Video: Trump has already been implicated in multiple felonies related to the Stormy Daniels hush money payments. Republicans dont want to hear it, but their president is a criminal. Nothing that Rep. Cohen said was untrue. Trump was broke. His tax returns prove it. His father was dead. No banks in the United States would loan him money. Trump got money from somewhere, and the Trump family has already admitted that Russia bankrolled their projects. The investigations into Trump are not just legitimate. They are vital to the safety of US democracy. Republicans have sold themselves out to the Trump mythology and crime wave, but Democrats are hanging tough as the line of defense for American freedom. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 3.2k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Sarah Sanders told reporters that the House Democratic request for the full Mueller report and documents was absurd because Democrats dont need to see the full report. Sarah Sanders falsely claims that Democrats dont need to see the full report Sanders said according to the White House Pool Report as provided to PoliticusUSA, I think its so absurd, this idea, that Congress doesnt get to see the Mueller report. In fact, theres a less redacted version of the Mueller report sitting there waiting on them to come and look at. Not a single Democrat has even taken the time to go and look at it. Theyre asking for information that they know they cant have. The attorney general is actually upholding the law. Chairman Nadler take a minute to let this sink in Chairman Nadler is asking the attorney general of the United States to break the law and commit a crime by releasing information that he knows he has no legal authority to have. Its truly outrageous and absurd what the chairman is doing and he should be embarrassed by his behavior. Video: .@PressSec "Chairman Nadler is asking the Attorney General of the United States to break the law and commit a crime by releasing information that he knows he has no legal authority to have. It's truly outrageous and absurd" pic.twitter.com/IIRPXdrAid CSPAN (@cspan) May 8, 2019 Sanders ignored the fact that Democrats have a legal right to both the full report and Muellers documents. While the report is getting all of the attention it is the other half of the Democratic demand that has the White House worried. The Democratic Demand For Muellers Documents and Underlying evidence has the White House Worried The White House is trying to block Democrats from seeing Muellers documents and the underlying evidence that was gathered. The evidence is what is most interesting to Democrats, especially as they investigate Trump obstruction of justice. There could be a nugget in the redacted eight percent of the report, but what the White House is doing is hiding evidence of Trumps potentially impeachable offenses. The president is in hiding, so Sarah Sanders was sent out to make an argument that is certain to lose in court. Not only does Congress need to see the report, but they will get the report once a judge settles this matter. 2.4k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Trump left for a campaign rally, but instead of talking to reporters, the president took no questions about his tax documents. Trump Takes No Questions when leaving for Florida NBC Newss Kelly ODonnell tweeted: Colleagues at WH say @realDonaldTrump did not stop to answer questions as he so often does. Big news day for no comment. Kelly O'Donnell (@KellyO) May 8, 2019 Trump made a cabinet meeting earlier in the day closed press to avoid taking any questions from reporters about his tax returns. The president will hold a rally in Florida, which is almost certain to feature Trump at his most off the rails worst, but he is not answering questions from reporters related to how he has lied about everything from his business success to paying taxes. Donald Trump never misses a chance to get in front of a camera, but the news is so bad on the issue of his leaked tax information that he is avoiding the press and their questions at all costs. A president is supposed to be accountable and lead, but all Donald Trump ever does is run away in disgrace. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook New Delhi: UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra, on Wednesday, said he was shocked at how Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to attack him in his rallies, instead of addressing the many issues such as poverty, joblessness in the country. "I am shocked to hear my name again in your rally. There are glaring issues such as poverty, joblessness, women empowerment etc which are staring right at you, but you chose to talk about me, out of everything else," Vadra said in a post on Facebook. He also said he had been at the receiving end of "complete harassment" by the Modi government and various government agencies. Read: Chowkidar will take 'shahenshah' to jail in 5 yeras: PM on Robert Vadra "I have been at the receiving end for the last 5 years of complete harassment by your government. Relentless notices from various agencies, courts n tax departments, to simply mentally pressurize me." "11 times being summoned to depose each of 8 to 11 hours with the Enforcement Directorate, in different parts of the country, Court depositions and related orders, etc but not one allegation has been proven," the post read. He went on to add that the PM should stop dragging his name into politics to take away attention from its many failures and that he had full faith in the Indian judiciary and its ability to find out the truth. "I wonder what do you want to achieve by invoking my name, again and again. Simply the nation knows my name is repeatedly used in elections to digress from the failures of your government and their own misdeeds. Please stop these personal attacks on me. By passing such remarks you insult our honourable judicial system. I have full faith in the Indian judiciary and the truth shall prevail," he said. In an apparent reference to Vadra, the Prime Minister had on Wednesday said at a rally in Haryana that if the NDA government comes back to power, he will put the 'shahenshah' who looted farmers behind bars within the next five years. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. 1.2k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Trump turned a cabinet meeting into a closed press event and blocked reporters from covering it after a bombshell report on his tax returns. The White House is hiding Trump from reporters The White House took away a chance for reporters to ask Trump questions about his tax returns: Key opportunity to see and question the president taken off the table. pic.twitter.com/koXg8cps0Z Kelly O'Donnell (@KellyO) May 8, 2019 The one sure fire way to tell when the story is terrible for Trump is when the White House hides him from reporters. Trump will be in hiding, and probably only be communicating by tweet because he believes that he is his own best communications person. The story on just one decade of Trumps tax returns is devastating. It revealed a president who is not a stable genius, who is terrible at business and a man who raised taxes on the majority of working Americans while he doesnt pay a dime most of the time in federal taxes. Any other president would have released his or her tax returns during the campaign so that this would not be an issue. A different president might hold a press conference and directly answer questions from the press. Trumps answer is to play hide and tweet. Donald Trump is caught, and now he is hiding to avoid any accountability for his lies. For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group. Follow Jason Easley on Facebook 921 SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Explainer: Who pays Trumps tariffs, China or U.S. customers and companies? CHICAGO (Reuters) U.S. President Donald Trump says China pays the tariffs he has imposed on $250 billion of Chinese exports to the United States but that is not exactly the way tariffs work. For 10 months, China has been paying Tariffs to the USA, Trump tweeted on Sunday, saying he would raise tariffs again amid stalled negotiations on a trade deal with China. But Trumps tariffs are not paid by the Chinese government or companies located in China. They are paid by importers of Chinese goods usually U.S. companies or the U.S.-registered units of foreign companies. Importers often pass the costs of tariffs on to customers, for the most part manufacturers and consumers in the United States. WHAT THE TARIFF MAN SAYS Trump has often repeated that China pays for U.S. tariffs on its goods. We have billions of dollars coming into our Treasury billions from China. We never had 10 cents coming into our Treasury; now we have billions coming in, he said on Jan. 24. Trump, who has called himself the Tariff Man, said on Sunday he will raise tariffs on Friday to 25 percent from 10 percent on $200 billion of Chinese goods. He has already imposed tariffs of 25 percent on $50 billion of Chinese imports. Global steel and aluminum imports and shipments of washing machines and solar panels are also subject to tariffs Trump has levied since January 2018. HOW TARIFFS REALLY WORK U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) collects the tax on imports. The agency typically requires importers to pay duties within 10 days of their shipments clearing customs. Through mid-March, Washington has netted $15.6 billion through tariffs imposed since early 2018, according to data from the CBP. Total tariff revenue including levies that pre-dated Trump shot up by 89 percent in the first half of the current fiscal year starting Oct. 1, to a total of $34.7 billion, according to U.S. Treasury data. Every item imported into the United States legally has a customs code. Importers are expected to check the tariffs and other taxes and duties due on the goods they bring in, calculate what they owe, and pay it. U.S. Customs reviews payments and sends importers a fresh bill if it detects underpayment. Importers also have to post payment guarantees, or import bonds, with customs. The costs of these bonds have risen with tariffs, an additional burden on U.S.-based firms importing goods from China. DO CHINESE SUPPLIERS BEAR THE COSTS OF U.S. TARIFFS? Chinese suppliers do shoulder some of the cost of U.S. tariffs in indirect ways. Exporters sometimes, for instance, are forced to offer U.S. importers a discount to help defray the costs of higher U.S. duties. Chinese companies might also lose business if U.S. importers find another tariff-free source of the same goods outside China. But U.S.-based importers are managing the higher tax burden in a number of ways that hurt U.S. companies and customers more than China. Such strategies include accepting a lower profit margin; cutting costs including wages and jobs for U.S. workers; and passing on tariff costs through higher prices for U.S. consumers or companies. Most importers use a mix of such tactics to spread the higher costs among suppliers, consumers or buyers. HIGHER PRICES FOR TRACTORS, WASHING MACHINES Higher duties on imports of metals and Chinese products, for example, increased Caterpillars production costs by more than $100 million last year. In response, the heavy-duty equipment maker increased prices for its products. Tractor manufacturer Deere & Co estimates a $100 million increase in its raw materials costs this year because of Trumps tariffs on Chinese imports. Deere has cut costs and increased prices to protect its profits. A Congressional Research Service report in February found that the tariffs led to increases in washing machine prices of as much as 12 percent, compared to January 2018, before tariffs took effect. Steel and aluminum tariffs increased the price of steel products by nearly 9 percent last year, pushing up costs for steel users by $5.6 billion, according to a study by the Peterson Institute for International Economics. U.S. companies and consumers paid $3 billion a month in additional taxes because of tariffs on Chinese goods and on aluminum and steel from around the globe, according to a study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Princeton University, and Columbia University. Companies shouldered an additional $1.4 billion in costs related to lost efficiency in 2018, the study found. WHAT DO COMPANIES IN CHINA PAY? China has retaliated against U.S. tariffs by imposing its own tariffs on imports from the United States. Most importers in China are Chinese. So in the same way the U.S. government collects import taxes on Chinese goods from U.S. importers, the Chinese government takes in taxes on U.S. goods from Chinese importers. As with tariffs in the United States, Chinese firms can seek to pass on the costs to U.S. exporters. Some U.S. interests have lost business, such as U.S. soy farmers. Chinese buyers have cut billions of dollars of soybeans purchases from the United States because Chins tariffs have made U.S. supplies more expensive than beans from competitors such as Brazil. (Editing by Simon Webb, Brian Thevenot and Tom Brown) 3.5k SHARES Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Pinterest Reddit Print Mail Flipboard Weve seen how farmers are suffering under President Trumps tariffs, and that while Trump subsidized farmers with your tax money to make up for it for one year, he declined to continue that program. Its all worth it, though, Trump claims because were getting so much money from the tariffs. For ten months, China has been paying Tariffs to the USA, Trump tweeted on Sunday. But of course, that is not accurate. Trumps tariffs are not paid by the Chinese government or companies located in China; they are usually paid by U.S. companies, or U.S. registered units of foreign companies, who then pass that cost on to consumers and pay less in wages. But it gets worse. Yes, Trump Tariffs Are Costing Billions. No, China Isnt Paying, Bloomberg reported Wednesday as Trump escalates his trade war with China. A study, co-authored by the World Banks chief economist and flagged today by Mark Niquette in Bloomberg, found that the main victims of Trumps trade wars were farmers and blue-collar workers in areas that supported Trump in 2016. (I)t concluded the main victims of Trumps trade wars had been farmers and blue-collar workers in areas that supported Trump in the 2016 election. Workers in very Republican counties bore the brunt of the costs of the trade war, in part because retaliations disproportionately targeted agricultural sectors. This might explain why farmers are getting fed up with Trumps trade war and Republicans are warning the administration to fix this. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) told The Washington Post, If he gets a deal, awesome. If he doesnt, its going to hurt, adding that farmers are losing their patience, yeah, but they want to see a deal. Senate Majority Whip John Thune (R-SD) told the Post that Republicans tried to warn the administration off of their trade war because of the political cost, I just think he believes that farmers are going to be with him because they think hes doing the right thing. And by and large, thats true. But when you start losing the farm, that calculation starts to change a little bit. While the White House has vaguely said they would take care of farmers again, Perdue said there is no such plan in place. We have been very clear to the agriculture community that we did not anticipate nor should they anticipate a 2019 Market Facilitation Program, Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue told reporters, referring to nearly $12 billion in aid paid to farmers to make up for Trumps trade war losses. How do companies deal with the tariffs? They cut costs, including wages and jobs for U.S. workers and pass the costs on to consumers. The U.S. based importers hit by Trumps China tariffs deal with their higher tax burden in ways that hurt U.S. customers and companies more than they hurt China; but one example is Deere & Co charging more for its tractors. In February, a Congressional Research Service report found that the tariffs led to increases in washing machine prices of as much as 12% over January of 2018, which is before the tariffs took effect. U.S. companies and consumers paid $3 billion a month in additional taxes because of tariffs on Chinese goods and on aluminum and steel from around the globe, according to a study by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Princeton University, and Columbia University, Reuters pointed out in a tariffs explainer Wednesday, which also pointed out that the tariff revenue is *not* compensating for the losses born by the consumers of imports. This is another way of saying we are all subsidizing Trumps trade war. But the man who lost more money than any other U.S. taxpayer for ten years doesnt seem to grasp how tough it is for middle and working class families to pay the bills, so getting stuck with an increase of 12% for a washing machine is nothing to him. He certainly wouldnt pay for the machine at all, given his record. Hed buy it, and then get Chris Christie to forgive the debt, like Christie did for Trumps almost $30 million tax debt in New Jersey. Meanwhile, Trumps proposed 2020 budget called for a trillion dollars in cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, after passing $1.5 trillion in tax cuts which mostly help the wealthy and corporations. Where is all of this going? Maybe it could be forgivable if it were to benefit American consumers and companies. However, China backed out of almost all of the resolutions to address the very issues Trump cited when launching his trade war: theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation. This is, like everything else Trump has touched, very costly and going nowhere good. (Additional reporting by Reuters) Get the SC business stories that matter. Our newsletter catches you up with all the business stories that are shaping Charleston and South Carolina every Monday and Thursday at noon. Get ahead with us - it's free. Thomas Novelly is a political reporter based in Charleston. He also covers the military community and veterans throughout South Carolina. Previously, he wrote for the Courier Journal in Kentucky. He is a fan of Southern rock, bourbon and horse racing. 'A Dalit woman was gang-raped in Alwar district of Rajasthan. This incident was hidden by the Congress party. It was a shameful act on behalf of the grand old party. CM Gehlot must resign by owning up the responsibility for this heinous crime,' Javdekar said. (Photo: File) New Delhi: Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday demanded the resignation of Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot over the alleged gang rape of a Dalit woman in Alwar last month. He also sought a CBI probe into the case. Talking to ANI, Javadekar said: "A Dalit woman was gang-raped in Alwar district of Rajasthan. This incident was hidden by the Congress party. It was a shameful act on behalf of the grand old party. Chief Minister Gehlot must resign by owning up the responsibility for this heinous crime." "After the incident, the couple went to the police on May 2 but they did not register an FIR as they were instructed not to do so due to the Lok Sabha election on May 6. It exposes Congress' stand on Dalits. Chief Minister Gehlot should not only resign but also hand over the case to the CBI," he said. Javadekar said: "The attempts were made by the state government to hide the victimised couple. The accused have filmed the shameful act and have also asked for money. They have also made the act of crime viral." A woman was allegedly gang-raped and thrashed while her husband was beaten up by a group of five men in Alwar on April 30. Chief Minister Gehlot has asked DGP Kapil Garg to monitor the probe into the heinous crime. Police have arrested one person so far. As many as 14 teams have been constituted to nab other absconding culprits. When asked to comment on Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) chief Sam Pitroda's tweet about Delhi University (DU) teachers opposing Modi's comments on former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Javadekar said: "I do not know what Sam Pitroda is saying." "What I know is that Rajiv Gandhi came to power with a clean image. But his minister VP Singh protested and exposed the Bofors scam that led to his electoral fall," said Javadekar. "Rajiv Gandhi did vote bank politics and minoritism in Shah Bano case. He supported anti-Sikh riots in which 3,000 Sikhs were killed," he said, while referring to Gandhi's statement that "when a big tree falls, the earth shakes." The Union HRD Minister said: "What Gandhi did during his tenure is known to all. Therefore, Prime Minister Modi has made a correct remark on Gandhi and Sam Pitroda should answer to that." Asked to comment on Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Singh Baghel's comment that Prime Minister Modi has lost his mental balance, Javadekar said: "It is the Congress party, which has lost its patience and control." IOC chief Pitroda on Wednesday had slammed BJP for unnecessarily bringing into picture Rajiv Gandhi after 28 years of his death. "Prime Minister Modi-led BJP government has unnecessarily brought in Rajiv Gandhi into the picture after 28 years of his death. People like me, who have worked with Rajiv Gandhi, are very upset," Pitroda told media persons in Amritsar in Punjab. Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations. Jamie Lovegrove is a political reporter covering the South Carolina Statehouse, congressional delegation and campaigns. He previously covered Texas politics in Washington for The Dallas Morning News and in Austin for the Texas Tribune. Charleston, SC (29403) Today Abundant sunshine. High around 70F. Winds SW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Mainly clear. Low 58F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. I get the opportunity to write this column every week. I also compile the Day in History feature for the Post Bulletin. I peruse old Rochester newspapers on microfilm and select what I believe are interesting news items from 25, 50, 75 and 100 years ago. I come across stories that are good, bad, cringe-worthy and funny. Our past in Southeast Minnesota is rich with stories and remarkable tales. As a frequent attendee of local history groups, a Civil War Roundtable and a Veterans and Emergency Services Roundtable, I thought I would pen a column about a pretty big deal being planned by these groups. First, a little background. Longtime Rochester residents and local history buffs may recall the Jean Piccard story. Piccard lifted off in the Pleiades, an aircraft made up of a cluster of 98 latex rubber balloons that carried him in a gondola. His liftoff was shortly after midnight on July 18, 1937, from Soldiers Field. Piccard, an accomplished balloonist, received a great deal of news coverage for this flight into the stratosphere, and the event was witnessed by a lot of Rochester residents staying up past their bedtimes. ADVERTISEMENT Now, the event being planned by the local history groups: Civil War historian Kevin Knapp will present "Eyes in the Sky, Lincolns Air Force," a portrayal of Thaddeus Lowe, an aeronaut, scientist and inventor who was appointed by President Abraham Lincoln to head the Union Army Balloon Corps. The program is at 6:30 p.m. May 17 at Autumn Ridge Church in Rochester. Knapps presentation will be assisted by re-enactors and historians Dale Blanshan, as Lincoln, and Arn Kind, as Civil War general Fitz John Parker. If you like history, you will enjoy this program, but WAIT, THERES MORE. A special guest at the program will be Don Piccard yes, the son of Jean Piccard. In fact, Don was 11 year old at the time of the launch and helped out with that very flight. Don followed in his familys footsteps and also became a professional balloonist. Dons dad, mom, uncle and others were balloonists, chemists, physicists, scientists, and deep sea explorers. Don clearly remembers when he was 7 years old and met Orville Wright. In 1963, Don and Ed Yost were the first to cross the English Channel in a hot air balloon. Don Piccard has won numerous awards and accomplishments and was named to the Ballooning Hall of Fame in 2014. Don also greatly improved the safety of the sport with the development of load tape that reinforces the balloon envelope and carries the weight of the gondola. Don even took former Tonight Show host Johnny Carson for a ride in 1967. There will be an admission fee for this program. WAIT, THERES EVEN MORE. The following day, May 18, the program continues on the up and up. (That is a pun that I hope you find funny.) At the Olmsted County History Center, adults and kids can take tethered hot ar balloon rides from 7 to 9:30 a.m., and from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Get there a little early each session and you can watch the balloons get inflated. Mike Lesmeister, balloonist extraordinaire and owner of Lesmeister Balloon Company, will oversee this event. There is a charge ($10 for adults and $5 for kids) and of course the weather will need to cooperate. Mike hopes to have two or three balloons there. Each will go up 40 to 50 feet for three to five minutes and then down for the next passengers. Many know Mike as the force behind the Liberty Belle Project. Donations to this nonprofit go towards funding free hot air balloon flights for veterans. There will be additional activities as well at the History Center. AND WAIT, THERES MORE. Also on May 18 at the brand new Hilton Hotel there will be a "Balloon Launch Luncheon" from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Speakers will be the world famous Don and his wife, Wilma Piccard, and Knapp, the Civil War historian. If you like history, this is the place to be. Teachers, students, history buffs, balloonists, those who need a reason to see the new Hilton please come. ADVERTISEMENT The lunch, for $30, will be catered by the Canadian Honker complete with Bunnys Coconut Cake. I am hoping I can offer a server some cash on the side so I can get two pieces of cake. Reservations are required for the luncheon program. To make your reservation send your check (made out to VESM) to Richard Krom, 1090 Buck Ridge Drive NE, Rochester, 55906. If you have a question, call Richard or his wife Sharon at 507-259-6708. In fact, luncheon reservations need to be made by May 14, so dont dilly, dilly. WAIT, THERES MORE. No, just kidding. I think that is enough. Presentation, balloon rides, lunch theres nothing more to see here. Editors Note: This is a two-part Answer Man. The first part, a classic column, first ran March 1, 2012, and answers a question about Dr. Jean Piccard, who is also the subject of the Boomer Grandpa column on page D2. The second part of this column is new material from a reader responding to yesterdays column. Dear Answer Man, what do you know about Dr. Jean-Felix Piccard? He was a Rochester man who was important in the history of balloon flight, but among his notions was that hed fly anyone to Mars for $250,000 in a balloon. Yes, I know about Dr. Piccard, who among other claims to fame is reputedly the namesake for Capt. Jean-Luc Picard, the "Star Trek" character. Piccard wasnt a Rochester resident, but he put the city on the map, among balloonists, with a launch here in 1937 of a "multi-celled balloon" called the Pleiades, which he piloted. Piccard, a Swiss native, was a chemical engineer and high-altitude balloonist who was associated with the University of Minnesota at the time of the Rochester flight, which must have been quite a public spectacle. He survived that flight and many others; he died in Minneapolis at age 79. Encyclopedia Britannica says Piccard "conducted stratospheric flights for the purpose of cosmic-ray research," and he lectured on aeronautical engineering at the U of M. ADVERTISEMENT Regarding Mars, heres what I know. A story in an Australian newspaper in 1952 quoted Piccard as guaranteeing a trip to Mars by 1954 to anyone willing to pay $250,000 for the privilege. The paper quoted him as saying, "If there is oxygen on Mars, there must be vegetable life, and where there is vegetable life, there can be animal life, even a race of human beings," he said. The spacecraft would involve balloons, and he claimed that an "ultra-modern gondola" was in the mock-up stage in a Minneapolis lab at that time. Fortunately for all involved, including the little green men on Mars, no one took him up on the offer. For the record, there was a famous French astronomer by roughly the same name: Jean-Luc Picard (one C in the surname), an important 17th century scientist who counted Sir Isaac Newton among his colleagues. And heres part 2 of todays column: Hi Mr. Genius! Just read Tuesdays column and wanted to pass this along. The Pondy Restaurant & Bar (in Mazeppa) has this special all day, mimosas while they last. (This is from the restaurants Facebook page.) "Mothers Day is around the corner! Join us on Sunday for your Mothers Day celebration! We will be featuring a three course meal for our Moms! Your choice of a Blackberry Walnut salad or Garden salad. Entree selections will include the Pondy Filet Mignon, Bone-In Iowa Pork Chop or Jumbo Scallops. And of course we will have a dessert selection for our Mamas! $2 Mimosas for Moms all day Sunday, until we run out of champagne! Thanks for all you do, Moms! See you Sunday!" Keep up the great work! In my last column, I discussed how to make sure that your potential customers can find your business. But I did not mention the importance of making sure your business can be found by folks in your area. For small businesses, local search is vital. Because smaller businesses look for customers in a specific market or region, its important their webpages show up in searches specific to those areas. When it comes to search, proximity really matters. Wordstreams research shows that 72 percent of consumers who searched on a smartphone visited a store within 5 miles of their location. For example, a boutique pet store in Rochester, Minnesota doesnt need to show up in searches for pet stores in Toledo, Omaha or Dallas. It does, however, need to be visible in searches performed around Rochester to help boost local foot traffic. One of the most important factors in local search results is your businesss physical location, because search results tend to highlight businesses near the searchers actual location. If the search was performed on a smartphone, the search engine likely knows the searchers exact location thanks to GPS. If the search was performed on a desktop or laptop computer, the search engine tries to pinpoint the searchers location based on their IP address and probably their Wi-Fi data. This is something you can test for yourself. Noah Turner, SEO manager for Deluxe Corp., gave this suggestion. Search on your smartphone for "hardware stores." The top results that show up are most likely the hardware stores closest to your actual physical location. Or, when youre on your mobile device, you might look up "oil change near me." When people are looking for a service, you need to have a webpage to match that search. ADVERTISEMENT So, what does this knowledge mean for your business? No matter the SEO tactics you use to boost your search results, one of the most important things you can do is make sure your business address is prevalent across the web. This includes your businesss website, its social media pages, and online listings and directories. We know that not every small business has a storefront or commercial office space. Some businesses are based out of a garage or home office. Even in those cases, however, its important for you to list the physical or mailing address of your business online to help attract customers through searches performed near your location. When a search engine knows your address and the type of business you are, you improve your odds of showing up in results when a search is performed within close proximity of your physical location. I had a recent client ask if they should consider paid search. Building your website using best SEO practices should always be a priority, but paid search is another option to help boost business via search engines. Paid search is a pay-per-click (PPC) business model, in which businesses bid on specific keywords and have ads appear next to search results when those keywords are used. One of the most popular paid search platforms is Googles AdWords. To see how this works, try searching Google for a word or phrase such as "plumber" or "carpet cleaner." On the search results page, the first handful of entries are accompanied by a tiny square that says "Ad," which indicates those entries have been paid for (even if they mostly look like "normal" search results). Businesses pay Google each time one of these paid search results is clicked, and the price per click can vary based on how popular and in-demand the search keyword is. Be aware that paid search has benefits and drawbacks: ADVERTISEMENT Guaranteed visibility:If youre willing to pay the price, you can guarantee that your business shows up any time a specific word or phrase is searched for. If you want your page to show up every time someone searches for "accounting services in Rochester," you can make that happen. Paid search does not, however, guarantee someone will click on your ad to visit your website. Flexible options:You can fine-tune your paid search ads to give them the best chance to reach your desired customers. Paid search doesnt help SEO. Think of paid search as "pay for play." That doesnt mean your page will begin to show up in searches organically in the results below the ads. For that you will need to make sure youve made use of sound SEO strategies. It costs money. It may seem obvious, but paid search is not free. That means youll need to make sure a paid search strategy fits within your budget. It may turn off some potential customers. Some web users may totally ignore paid search ads because they know the business paid money to be seen. Several months ago now, my mother-in-law got a call from my son, Christian. Hed gotten in a car accident just a fender bender, he told her, but it had landed him in jail. In Chicago. Could she pay $3,000 to get him out? He explained that hed traveled to Chicago with friends from college, and that he was too embarrassed to call his parents for the money. He knew wed be angry. This kid didnt sound like her grandson but there was a good reason for that, he explained. Hed broken his nose in the crash. Skeptical, she refused to give her credit card number. Thats when Christians lawyer got on the phone and said that if she could afford to send just $1,000, it would be enough to get her grandson out of jail. ADVERTISEMENT She hung up and called the police. And then she called us. "You did the right thing," my husband said. Because, as we all knew, that call didnt come from Christian. It came from someone pretending to be Christian. I soon learned that this is increasingly common. I happened to be teaching a writing class at Shorewood Senior Campus that same week. Before class started one Wednesday morning, I was relaying my mother-in-laws story to my gathering students. "That happened to me, too," said one woman at a table in the back. "Me, too," said another to my right. "Wait a second," I said. "Raise your hand if youve received a scam call from a grandchild." Nearly half the rooms arms rose into the air. This infuriates me. The fact that scammers play on the heartstrings of loving family members is despicable. Banking on someones love for their grandchild to steal their money? Its the lowest. ADVERTISEMENT A friend of mine, Janelle Rosin, works in the emergency communications center at the government center which is to say that she answers 911 and non-emergency calls for the city and county. Phone scams are a hot topic for her. And for good reason. "We get many, many calls every day about scams," she told me. "Every day?" I asked, assuming Id misheard. "Every day, every shift," she answered. "Absolutely." Some of the calls, she told me, are people reporting a scam theyd recognized. Others are people reporting that they fell victim to a scam sending money to someone who claimed to be from the IRS, from Publishers Clearinghouse, or, yes, claiming to be a grandchild. Its calls like these and others that prompted Janelle and her co-worker, Holly Ketzeback, to reach out to the community. Together, the two women created a class called "The 411 on 911," which will be held at 125 LIVE Monday from 10 to 11 a.m. and again from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The class will offer a very brief history of 911, a tutorial on what happens when someone calls 911, and guidelines for when its appropriate to call 911 and when its not. Itll also cover "community resources that people might not realize are available and free to the public." And, of course, it will delve into scams. The dramatic increase in scam-related 911 calls has a direct correlation with the advent of the Internet, says Janelle. ADVERTISEMENT "Thats where scammers are getting their information," she says "Lets say Ann Miller doesnt pay attention to her privacy settings on Facebook. Now a scammer can get in to see that Anns grandson, Billy, is going to Colorado for spring break. They can find Anns phone number through the White Pages online. Everything is right there for them to strike." Educating the public is key to stopping scammers, which is where Janelle and Hollys "The 411 on 911" class comes in. It will offer solid advice ("The IRS will never, ever call you," says Janelle. "And Publishers Clearinghouse isnt going to ask for your banking info."). And it will explore some of the different scams 911 dispatchers see come through their phone lines every day. "Hopefully, youll never experience a scam or have to call 911," says Janelle. "But if you do, were going to make sure you have the information you need." Rochesterfest vendors will likely be circling a cinder track for the last time this summer. Plans to cover the Soldiers Memorial Field Park track with asphalt were approved Tuesday by the Rochester Park Board. "I think we made a good decision, and I say we move forward with it," Park Board member Linnea Archer said, referring to the parks master plan, which calls for changes to expand opportunities and festivals at the site. The board was slated to approve paving the track last month after the Rochester City Council approved $850,000 for the project, which will also include paving the nearby parking lot. However, members of the Rochester Track Club and others raised concerns about using asphalt on the public track that also hosts young runners during the Hal Martin All-Comers Track Meets throughout the summer. The club requested time to research alternatives to pavement. ADVERTISEMENT On Tuesday, the group pitched using beam clay, a crushed natural material that would be similar to the tracks existing cinders but provide improved drainage. Mike Nigbur, Rochesters park and forestry division head, said the material would add at least $50,000 to the project, while raising questions regarding maintenance and whether it would be sufficient when the space is used for festivals. Rochester resident Kevin Lund said his research indicates the material would be sufficient for current festival uses while offering a better option for runners. He questioned whether previous investments in electrical and water service to the site were driving the asphalt decision. "As far as I can ascertain, these upgrades were financed and implemented thank God to assist Rochesterfest in the wonderful location," he said, but noted the city isnt obligated to make further changes by paving the track. While Rochesterfest has the longest history of using the site, moving to the park in 2015, the events director, Brent Ackerman, noted the Park Boards desire to attract festivals to the park predates the need for a new Rochesterfest location "We had heard about the desire by the (Park) Board to activate Soldiers Field, and we were intrigued," he said of the decision to move the annual event to the park in 2015. Ackerman and Nigbur noted other events have taken place at the park in recent years, but wet conditions and other factors have hampered continued use. Nigbur said the goal to attract more events to the site remains. Park Board member Chad Ramaker said that goal is what drove him to support the asphalt option. ADVERTISEMENT "As a citizen, I would like to see it as an event space," he said. At the same time, he suggested that the Parks and Recreation Department should consider looking for a location to create an updated running track that would be open for public use. While Nigbur suggested it could be incorporated into plans at Gamehaven Park in southeast Rochester, Ramaker said he was thinking of something closer to the center of the city. "I would prefer it as part of the Silver Lake Master Plan, which still needs to happen," he said. Other board members echoed the desire to look for a new track option, but Board President Vern Yetzer warned that funding isnt available at this point. "We didnt have money to do even this until about six weeks ago," he said of the Soldiers Field paving project. With the Park Board decision to move forward on the asphalt surface, Nigbur said a call for potential contractors will be prepared by June, with plans to have the work done in the fall. Kurukshetra: In a jibe at Rahul Gandhi who had said he has love and affection for him, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday listed the "curses and foul language" used against him by opposition parties, mainly the Congress. "Before I became the Prime Minister, a leader from Congress called me an insect, another leader called me a mad dog. I was also called Bhasmasur, monkey, virus, Dawood Ibrahim, Hitler, rat, bloody man, trader of untruth, Ravana, snake, scorpion, bad man and poisonous person. They even called me a trader of death," he said addressing an election rally here. Further going on to list some other descriptions used against him, he said, "When I became the Prime Minister, I was called 'jawano ke khoon ka dalaal, Mussolini, Gadaffi, Hitler, mentally disturbed, neech. They called me worthless, worse than Aurangzeb, dishonest, Natwarlal. They even abused my mother by asking who was my father." Read: Chowkidar will take 'shahenshah' to jail in 5 yeras: PM on Robert Vadra He said "This is the truth of their dictionary of love. We hope that this dictionary does not get into the hands of children," in an apparent reference to Gandhi who had told him that he had love and respect for him despite his attack on his father as "brashtachari no 1". Criticising Congress, PM Modi said, "When we talk of India's culture, then Congress goes silent. Congress supports people abusing sacred texts of Mahabharat and Ramayan. Congress supports those who are inclined to Pakistan. During the aerial strikes, when India entered Pakistan and killed the terrorists and one of "our brave sons" was captured by Pakistan, they (Pakistan) had to release him within 48 hours. They came to see him off at the Wagah border," said PM Modi. "Many rivers go to Pakistan from India but sadly this water belongs to our farmers. Congress failed to do anything on this but your chowkidar will ensure that every Indian farmer gets every drop of water. The water from Indian rivers will not go to Pakistan," the Prime Minister sa Referring to Gita, Modi said, "Lord Krishna has said that one should always work because it is always good to do something than do nothing. I dedicated my life to the people of India and am working for their sake." "In the last five years, we have worked to ease our life of common people. And that became possible dur to people's vote in 2014. On May 12 your vote on lotus will strengthen the country. We will take forward our country keeping intact its values and knowledge. Here Manohar Lal khattar's government organised Gita International, Gita anniversary. "Small farmers are now getting money in their bank accounts. We are also working to form national traders Association to help small traders. We are planning to give pension to small farmers and farm labourers with a pension as they age 60 years." Keep yourself updated on Lok Sabha Elections 2019 with our round-the-clock coverage -- breaking news, updates, analysis et al. Happy reading. LAKE CITY The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance will host a benefit concert at Liberty Tree Farm in Stockholm, Wis., as part of its spring member drive. The concert starts at 6 p.m. doors open at 5 p.m. on June 8 and features Minnesota string-band The Pistol Whippin Party Penguins, with original songs about the river. A short ceremony during the concert will honor the Citizens for a Clean Mississippi for giving LPLA their remaining funds more than $9,000 and passing along a legacy of local advocacy to protect Lake Pepin. CCMI was a grassroots organization famous for the campaign "We Cant All Live Upstream", which was used to successfully reduce wastewater pollution and improve water quality in Lake Pepin during the 1970s. Community Crust Pizza will be serving up pizza, and Liberty Tree Farm will have beverages available for purchase. Lake Pepin Benefit Concert Tickets ($15) and LPLA memberships ($25 and up), which include concert admission, are available through the LPLA website at www.lakepepinlegacyalliance.org . Children ages 15 and younger are admitted free. ADVERTISEMENT The Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance works to restore habitat and advocates for upstream sediment reductions to protect Lake Pepin for future generations. WABASHA Once again, military families will enjoy the National Eagle Center for free. From May 18 to Sept. 2, the Eagle Center will offer free admission to active-duty military families. This year marks the fourth year the Wabasha destination has participated in the Blue Star Museum program. More than 200 Blue Star Family members visited during the summer of 2017. The Blue Star Museums program offers free admission to active-duty personnel and their families at more than 2,000 museums across the nation and is a joint program of the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families the Department of Defense. "We are happy to continue our participation," said Ed Hahn, marketing manager at the National Eagle Center. "As a Blue Star Museum, we are able to connect military families with our national symbol and live eagle ambassadors. Its a wonderful program." Other sites that are part of the Blue Star Museums program in Southeast Minnesota include Historic Forestville/Minnesota Historical Society in Preston, and both the Minnesota Marine Art Museum and Winona County Historical Society museum in Winona. ADVERTISEMENT The complete list of participating museums is available at arts.gov/bluestarmuseums . RED WING Four years ago, Roger Quast didnt even know Josh Leonard. Now, Joshs death has hit him hard. "He had the biggest heart," Quast said of his friend. "He had the biggest heart that I knew of." Josh Leonard, of Lake City, died Sunday morning when the mechanical arm he was operating from the back of a semi tractor trailer came in contact with a power line near the intersection of Goodhue County Road 9 and 380th Street in Belvidere Township, according to the Goodhue County Sheriffs Office. While the Goodhue County Coroner will verify the cause of death, it seems the power line sent a surge through the equipment to Josh. Goodhue First Responders came, but Josh was pronounced dead at the scene. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating. ADVERTISEMENT The loss of a 27-year-old man is always hard, but Joshs death came just seven days before an event close to his big heart, the eRATicate Cancer Cruise, for which he was co-vice chairman. Quast said Josh spearheaded the efforts for the fundraiser in its south side. "Theres nobody on the south end who could work for us down there," Quast said. "His whole family donates the lunch for us. They take care 100 percent of the lunch, and the $5 they charge goes right back into the cruise." That all-in involvement came from a inauspicious beginning. In 2014, Quast said hed never met Josh. But one of his friends, a fellow car buff, had attended a car show in Red Wing. The friend was admiring a "ratrod" an older car thats restored mechanically, but the exterior is left alone, rust and all in the parking lot, when the owner, Josh, came by. That buddy told Quast to friend-request Josh on Facebook. "Within a couple of weeks we were good friends," Quast said. "Within a year, I brought him in as co-chairman of eRATicate Cancer Cruise." Quast said Josh dealt with lupus and the associated pain from that illness, so he felt some empathy for the people fighting cancer and their families. "To see the look on someones face when you hand them $1,000 when theyre struggling, thats amazing," Quast said. The fundraiser cruise that Josh loved so much runs Saturday, starting at Big Guys BBQ Roadhouse in Houlton, Wis., driving down to Prescott, Wis., and crossing the river to Kellogg. From there, the cruise rides up U.S. Highway 61 to Frontenac and finally Stillwater. ADVERTISEMENT In its first year in 2015, the fundraiser earned about $4,000, Quast said. Last year with simultaneous cruises in Iowa, Oregon-Washington, California, Texas-New Mexico, Oklahoma-Arkansas and Arizona the cruise earned $40,000. Quast said theyre hoping to add another $10,000 to the funds this year. Last year about 100 cars entered the cruise. The year before was 112. This year theyre expecting about 200. "This year, a bunch of semi guys will do it," he said, adding that Josh drove a semi, and that community is rallying around the cancer cruise for Josh. Even if you dont have a ratrod of your own, Quast said there are ways to donate to the fundraiser. The groups Facebook page has information about the fundraiser, and there is a "donate now" button on the organizations website at eraticatecancercruise.com . "One-hundred percent of the proceeds goes to individuals and Childrens Cancer (Research Foundation)," he said. "Its all about going back to the people." As for Quast, hell be driving his 1946 Chevy fuel truck on Saturday, his own big heart heavy, missing his friend. Whether you want to sign up to drive along or just donate to the fundraiser that supports cancer research and families battling cancer, you can learn more about the eRATicate Cancer Cruise, which rolls down the Wisconsin side of the Mississippi River and up the Minnesota side Saturday, at eraticatecancercruise.com . Letter carriers are hoping to pick up as much as they deliver on Saturday. The National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger National Food Drive the largest one-day food drive in the nation will have carriers gathering food as they deliver letters and packages. Rochester carriers will join their peers in more than 10,000 cities and towns throughout America by collecting donated food from their postal customers. Led by the carriers, other postal employees and volunteers have gathered more than 1 billion pounds of food the past 25 years. Last year, Rochester carriers brought in 728,712 pounds of food in a single day, with the food supporting the 3,500 Olmsted County families who visit the the Channel One supplemental food shelf each month. ADVERTISEMENT To participate, people throughout Rochester will be filling bags Saturday with food and placing them near mailboxes to help support their neighbors who struggle with food insecurity. Postal workers will collect the donations. RED WING A Minneapolis man who reportedly told police he went along with a violent home invasion "like a dumbass," pleaded guilty Monday to three felony charges in connection with the incident. Aldray Devon Young, 33, pleaded guilty in Goodhue County District Court to two counts of aggravated robbery and a count of burglary. Young was charged with a total of 10 felonies in connection to the May 21, 2018 incident. He is scheduled to be sentenced on the charges on July 5. He is being held on $150,000 unconditional bail. Another man, Terrell Reese Schaeffer, 30, of St. Paul, is also charged in the case. He is charged with two felony counts of kidnapping, two felony counts of first-degree aggravated robbery, felony first-degree burglarypossession of a dangerous weapon, felony first-degree burglary of an occupied dwelling and two counts of felony simple robbery. He is being held on $150,000 unconditional bail. Schaeffer was scheduled to have a jury trial on April 15 but is now scheduled for trial in June. The Goodhue County Sheriffs Office was called around 9 a.m. May 21 to the 29000 block of 90th Avenue Way in Cannon Falls Township for a report of a robbery that just occurred at the home. ADVERTISEMENT The couple reported that two men rang their doorbell that morning and forced themselves into the home. One held the husband and wife at gunpoint while the other went through the house, according to a criminal complaint. The couple were taken to their homes downstairs and tied up with a cellphone charger cord and some rope. During the estimated 30 minutes the men were in their home, one of them asked the couple the color of their cat. The couple told deputies they found the question strange. A laptop and a substantial amount of cash were taken as well as multiple guns. The two men left in a light blue or light green sedan westbound on Goodhue County Road 19. A day after the incident, a woman who was taking her child to school in Cannon Falls called the sheriffs office after noticing a silver-colored car in the corner of the parking lot with two men. One of the men was reportedly wearing a vest that matched the description of one worn during the robbery. Court documents do not indicate if the woman saw the car the day of the robbery or the day after, but deputies pulled surveillance video from the school and were able to see the same vehicle in the parking lot around 7:45 a.m. May 21. In June, deputies received a tip that Young drove a car that matched the description of the car described in the home robbery, and that Young lived in St. Paul, according to court documents. Coordinating with other law enforcement agencies in the Twin Cities, deputies were able to track down the car and eventually had it towed and placed into evidence so a search warrant could be conducted on the car. Inside the car, deputies found an ignition interlock device that takes a photo and records the location every time the device is used. After getting a search warrant for the data, deputies were able to get multiple photos of Schaeffer behind the wheel in Cannon Falls on the day of the robbery, according to court documents. Photos also allegedly showed Schaeffer in the driveway of the victims home with a passenger. Deputies arrested Young at the Hennepin County Courthouse on Oct. 30 after learning he was scheduled to appear there on an unrelated matter. Young allegedly told police the robbery was not his idea and he just "went along with it like a dumbass." ADVERTISEMENT A Rochester man was sentenced earlier this month to nine years in prison for his role in the death of a 32-year-old woman. Jesse Jerold Juaire, 29, was sentenced on May 3 in Goodhue County District Court by Judge Lawrence Clark to 108 months in state prison, according to court records. Juarie was given credit for 301 days already served. He pleaded guilty in December to criminal vehicular homicide. The felony charge also had the caveat that Juaire had a schedule I or II drug in his system at the time of the crash. A second count of felony criminal vehicular homicide and two misdemeanor charges were dismissed as part of the plea, according to court records. Minnesota state troopers were sent to a one-vehicle rollover crash shortly before 4:50 a.m. on Aug. 18, 2017, on U.S. Highway 52 near its intersection with 165th Avenue, according to court documents. A trooper observed that it appeared "as though the vehicle had been traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 52, drifted right onto the shoulder just south of 165th Avenue intersection, left the roadway and rolled several times." A passenger in the car, 32-year-old Cassandra Lynn Sims, had been ejected from the car and was found unresponsive and not breathing. She later was pronounced dead by medical staff. ADVERTISEMENT When troopers initially spoke with Juaire, he reportedly told them a fourth person in the car had been driving but ran off. Another passenger gave troopers a similar story as well. Both Juaire and the other man told troopers they didnt know the person and that they had been friends of Sims, according to court documents. Investigators determined that story was false and that Juaire was the driver. When questioned by troopers, the passenger admitted he had lied and stated that Juaire told him to make up a story about a fourth person and he did not know what happened to cause the crash, according to court documents. Before troopers began questioning Juaire, he reportedly made a statement that it was his fault and his car, according to court documents. The trooper also noted that Juaires speech seemed slurred and that he was lethargic. Juaire told the trooper he had been on a "meth binge for a while," according to court documents. At the time of the crash, Juaires driving status had been cancelled, according to court documents. A joint venture between Guam-based Black Construction and the British firm MACE International has been awarded a $29.8 million contract for the construction of a 3 megawatt photovoltaic electrical generation system at the Naval Support Facility in Diego Garcia. Black Construction is located in Harmon. MACE International is based in London. The funds are coming from the fiscal year 2015 military construction budget. The work requires the construction of a 3 MW photovoltaic electrical generation system and supporting electrical distribution system upgrades. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. The job also includes site preparation, fencing, perimeter lighting and a ground cover system. Work is expected to be completed by June 2021. Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii awarded the contract. It was competitively procured on the Federal Business Opportunities website. Only one proposal was received. The trial began on Tuesday in the Superior Court of Guam for a former peace officer who stands accused of sexually assaulting a 7-year-old girl known to him at a family party in March 2018. Ded Detor, 41, was charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct, with a special allegation of committing the crime against a vulnerable victim. Detor was a peace officer in Chuuk state of the Federated States of Micronesia before he and his family moved to Guam. The prosecution alleged in court documents that Detor entered the bedroom where the victim was in and showed her a piece of gum. Detor sat on the floor and made the girl sit on his lap and allegedly touched her inappropriately, court documents state. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. A Chuukese interpreter sat beside the defendant during the trial. Victim testifies "He carried me on his lap and then he started touching me," said the now-8-year-old girl. She looked calm the entire afternoon as she testified on the witness stand. The little girl said she was playing alone with toy animals and a toy bus on the floor in one of the bedrooms when the defendant walked into the room. "He was behind me," she said. "He started touching my private parts. I was just keeping still and really wanted to move, but he just wouldn't let me go." "I felt pain." She went on to describe the alleged sexual assault. The victim said she heard her grandmother call for her. "I just ran to the door," she said. "I went to my (sister) and she could see me crying." She attempted to tell her grandmother of the allegations, but couldn't she said the defendant was present. "I was scared," she said. Several weeks had passed before the victim told her mother of the alleged assault and they reported it to police. 'Bravery' During opening statements on Monday, both sides presented to the jury what to expect during trial. "Bravery," said Brown, as he explained to the jury what it would take for a child to speak up about allegations of sexual abuse. "When you hear what she has to say ... I would ask you: Find him guilty." Defense attorney Ali Nusbaum said: ""Our client is innocent of these charges. ... The government has accused our client of committing the most heinous crime imaginable to most people, which is a sex crime against a young girl." The defense told the jury that Detor is an upstanding member of this community who moved to Guam 12 years ago with his family. "If these allegations were true, serious physical trauma would have been inflicted on this young girl, but for some reason, the mom didn't follow up. Why?" she said. "You will see the holes in this story ... it just doesn't fit together and that thought is the reasonable doubt that will set this man free of these awful allegations." In shock The victim's mother also testified with the assistance of a Chuukese interpreter. "Everyone was having a good time," the victim's mother said about the family party held in March 2018 where the alleged abuse occurred. The mother only learned of the allegations well after the party. "I was not a little surprised. I was in shock," she said. "He's like a father in the family. That's why I was heartbroken by this." But, she admitted on the stand that nearly two weeks had passed before they reported it to authorities. "My mom asked me to wait and give an offering or prayer maybe to ask why this is happening to me and my family for my only child," she said. "I kept thinking of going. Until that day I decided to do it." She testified that she reported the allegations to police only after she learned the defendant had plans to leave to Hawaii. Day two During the second day of trial, Detor's wife was called up to testify as a witness for the defense. "I was very shocked, afraid when my sister told me the story," Detor's wife said. She was also shown the photos taken at the party the day the alleged incident occurred. The prosecution is set to question the defendant next. The trial continues today in Presiding Judge Alberto Lamorena III courtroom. Denver: Two male students armed with handguns burst into a Denver-area science and technology school and opened fire on Tuesday, killing one classmate and wounding seven others before being taken into custody, law enforcement officials said. Several of the surviving victims of the attack at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, a Denver suburb, were initially listed in critical condition at local hospitals and in surgery, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said at a briefing. An 18-year-old male was pronounced dead at the scene, Spurlock said a short time later. Two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school, and engaged students in two separate locations, Spurlock said. He told Reuters in a brief interview that the suspects, each armed with a handgun, opened fire in two separate classrooms. They were identified only as two male students of the school, one an adult and the other under age 18. The school serves students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Television images showed police vehicles gathered outside a suburban house about 2 miles from the school,where one of the suspect was believed to live. Sheriffs deputies arrived at the school, located about 25 miles (40 km) south of Denver, within two minutes of the first reports, Spurlock said, and engaged the suspects. Law enforcement officials declined to comment on a possible motive for the rampage, saying it was too early in the course of the investigation, which was being assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The White House said President Donald Trump had been briefed on the shooting. The shooting occurred less than a month after the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School massacre in nearby Littleton, about five miles (8 km) from the Highlands Ranch school. In 1999, two Columbine students killed 13 people there before committing suicide in what remains one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. A man who identified himself as Fernando Montoya said his 17-year-old son, a junior at STEM, was shot three times, and that one of his friends was also wounded. Montoya said his son told him that one shooter walked into his classroom and opened fire with a gun. One shooter was already in the classroom, the son told his father. He said a guy pulled a pistol out of a guitar case and started to shoot, Montoya told ABC affiliate Denver 7. As the incident unfolded, medical helicopters landed and took off outside the school, while snipers took up position on nearby roofs. SWAT team officers with rifles secured the area as ambulances and police officers arrived. Stunned kindergartners and weeping high school students could be seen walking down the steps of a building designated as a reunification center. Most were holding their parents hands Colorado Governor Jared Polis said he was sending additional state law enforcement officials to the scene. We are making all of our public safety resources available to assist the Douglas County Sheriffs Department in their effort to secure the site and evacuate the students, Polis wrote on Twitter. The White House offered a message of condolence. Our prayers are with the victims, family members, and all those affected by todays shooting, White House spokesman Judd Deere said. The White House has been in communication with state and local officials, and the President has been briefed and continues to monitor the ongoing situation. Some of the worst mass shootings in the United States have occurred in Colorado. In addition to Columbine, a man opened fire at a movie theater in Aurora, another Denver suburb, in 2012, killing 12 people and injuring scores more. Tuesdays bloodshed in Colorado came one week to the day after a gunman opened fire on the Charlotte campus of the University of North Carolina, killing two people and wounding four others. A 22-year-old former student of the university has been charged with murder and attempted murder in the case. Islamabad: Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was freed from death row by the Supreme Court in a high-profile blasphemy case that polarised the society, has quietly left the country and reunited with her family in Canada, her lawyer said on Wednesday. Bibi, a mother of four from Punjab province, was taken out of the Muslim-majority country after repeated death threats from religious extremists, following the quashing of her conviction for blasphemy last year. The 47-year-old mother of four was convicted in 2010 after being accused of insulting Islam in a row with her neighbours. She always maintained her innocence, but has spent most of the past eight years in solitary confinement. Aasia Bibi has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will, a source in the foreign office was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. Bibi's counsel Saiful Malook confirmed that she has reached Canada. It is a big day. Asia Bibi has left Pakistan and reached Canada. She has reunited with her family. Justice has been dispensed, he said. Bill Clinton has blasted Brett Kavanaugh for his role in investigating the death of Vince Foster, the Clintonista who came to Washington as deputy White House counsel and ended up taking his own life. Clinton launched his attack on Sunday in Las Vegas during an event billed as An Evening with the Clintons. Clinton took the position that Kavanaugh deserved to be hit with unsubstantiated allegations of sexual assault because of Kavanaughs role in the Foster investigation. The former president said that Kavanaugh didnt have any problem making us put up with three years of Vince Foster nonsense that was a total charade. Gee, if I could be sure that Clinton would drop the elder statesman facade and indulge in this sort of self pity, I might pay $1,000 (or whatever) to spend an evening with him. Nah. Clinton has no legitimate beef with Kavanaugh over the Foster investigation. First, it was Ken Starr, the independent counsel, who decided to pursue this matter. Starr did so because the air was rife with conspiracy theories about Fosters death and, as Quin Hillyer points out, the work of Starrs predecessor hadnt put the conspiracy theories to rest. Starrs decision was a good one. In any event, it was Starrs, not Kavanaughs. And it was Starr who ordered Kavanaugh to leave no stone unturned. Second, as Hillyer argues, Clinton should be grateful for Kavanaughs work on the Foster matter. The exhaustive nature of the work performed by Kavanaugh and John Bates (now an anti-Trump federal judge) put the conspiracy theories largely to rest. The Clintons should also be grateful that Starr excluded from his report the fact that, just before Foster committed suicide, Hillary Clinton publicly humiliated him, thus quite possibly triggering the suicide. I wrote about this here. Ive heard it suggested that the last minute allegations of sexual misconduct against Kavanaugh were the Clintons revenge for the nominees role in Starrs investigations. I dont buy it. That circus was about keeping a conservative nominee off the court, not about the 1990s. The Clintons, though, did make a run at keeping Kavanaugh off the D.C. Circuit. Hillary, then a Senator, blocked him for quite some time in an attempt at revenge. However, Im pretty sure the Clintons have no beef with Kavanaugh over the Foster part of the independent counsels investigation. The Clintons grudge is based on the Lewinski probe in which Kavanaugh also participated. Understandably, Bill Clinton doesnt want to talk about the Lewinsky portion of the Starr investigation. Its way too embarrassing. Thus, he comes down on Kavanaugh over the Foster investigation, which concerned matters for which Bill wasnt culpable and as to which he can play the victim a bit more plausibly. Its a clever move. Bill Clinton is a clever bitter old man. In the third installment of our preview of the new (Spring) issue of the Claremont Review of Books (subscribe here), Christopher Caldwell takes up Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban. We have featured Caldwells several CRB essays on the Muslim immigration that is transforming Europe. As the author of the 2009 book Reflections on the Revolution in Europe: Immigration, Islam, and the West, he knows what he is talking about. His present essay on Orban begins: No English-language newspaper reported on it at the time, nor has any cited it since, but the speech Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban made before an annual picnic for his partys intellectual leaders in the late summer of 2015 is probably the most important by a Western statesman this century. As Orban spoke in the village of Kotcse, by Lake Balaton, hundreds of thousands of migrants from across the Muslim world, most of them young men, were marching northwestwards out of Asia Minor, across the Balkan countries and into the heart of Europe. Already, mobs of migrants had broken Hungarian police lines, trampled cropland, occupied town squares, shut down highways, stormed trains, and massed in front of Budapests Keleti train station. German chancellor Angela Merkel had invited those fleeing the Syrian civil war to seek refuge in Europe. They had been joined en route, in at least equal number, by migrants from Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. For Hungarians, this was playing with fire. They are taught in school to think of their Magyar ancestors as having ridden off the Asian steppes to put much of Europe to the torch (Attila is a popular boys name), and they themselves suffered centuries of subjugation under the Ottomans, who marched north on the same roads the Syrian refugees used in the internet age. But no one was supposed to bring up the past. Merkel and her defenders had raised the subject of human rights, which until then had been sufficient to stifle misgivings. In Kotcse, Orban informed Merkel and the world that it no longer was. Orban was preparing a military closure of his countrys southern border. Ryan Williams at the Claremont Institute reports that Google has changed its mind: See Ryans complete update of the story here. One wonders whether Google changed its mind because it discerned a mistake or took note of the public heat it was getting over this. But a deeper issue needs to be addressed. A number of conservatives have said that although Google, Facebook, and Twitter are engaging in censorship of conservatives, those platforms are privately-owned, and therefore immune from the reach of the First Amendment. Maybe not? My mind has been wandering back to some old Supreme Court cases, starting with Munn v. Illinois in 1876. This was the case that upheld state regulation of the prices charged by grain elevator cooperatives, even though there was no monopoly in grain elevators. What could a 19th century case about grain elevators possibly have to tell us about social media in the 21st century? More than you might think. Heres the 10th paragraph of Chief Justice Morrison Waites majority opinion: Looking, then, to the common law, from whence came the right which the Constitution protects, we find that, when private property is affected with a public interest, it ceases to be juris privati only. This was said by Lord Chief Justice [Matthew] Hale more than two hundred years ago, in his treatise De Portibus Maris, 1 Harg.Law Tracts 78, and has been accepted without objection as an essential element in the law of property ever since. Property does become clothed with a public interest when used in a manner to make it of public consequence and affect the community at large. When, therefore, one devotes his property to a use in which the public has an interest, he, in effect, grants to the public an interest in that use, and must submit to be controlled by the public for the common good, to the extent of the interest he has thus created. He may withdraw his grant by discontinuing the use, but, so long as he maintains the use, he must submit to the control. [Emphasis added.] It seems to me that social media, being a prime means by which the public now communicates, satisfies this test. (We must leave aside for another time due consideration for Justice Stephen Fieldss excellent dissent in Munn, not to mention Richard Epsteins modern powerful critique of this and similar cases.) Likewise, several of the railroad regulation cases of the late 19th century, not to mention the Civil Rights Cases of 1883, find that private property that is used in a mode of public conveyance ceases to be strictly private property (this is the basis for prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race in restaurants, hotels, and so forth). And there are other cases that might be brought to bear to support the conclusion that the Internet giants and social media platforms that discriminate on the basis of viewpoint are violating fundamental civil rights, even if they are nominally private enterprises. The holdings and doctrines of these cases may be defective, but they are part of the legal foundation of modern regulation and civil rights law. Why shouldnt Google, Facebook, Twitter, et al. be subject to the same legal regime that in other domains they wholeheartedly support? Mark Zuckerberg has said to Congress, Please regulate us! I say let him have it, good and hard. Jeffrey Epstein was indicted for having sex with dozens of underage girls. His practice was to lure girls ages 13 to 16 to his mansion for a massage. He would molest them, paying extra for oral sex and intercourse, and offering more money to bring him new girls. In addition, Epstein reportedly had these underage girls engage in sex with his friends and associates. He would also induce them into having sex with each other while he watched. For these practices, Epstein served just 13 months in state prison. He was housed in a private wing at the Palm Beach County jail and allowed work release privileges. Epsteins year of incarceration reportedly included trips to New York and the Virgin Islands. Epstein got off this lightly thanks to a plea deal granted by Alex Acosta, now the Secretary of Labor, then the U.S. Attorney in South Florida. These days, when he should be in prison, Epstein hangs out in his mansion in the Virgin Islands, as well as multiple other posh digs. Currently, according to this report, hes forging ahead with building activity on the island of Great St. James, flouting efforts by the Virgin Islands government to force him to comply with the territorys environmental protection laws. Epsteins plea deal is a lesson in how not to punish a pedophile sex offender. A lesson in how to punish one comes from the same U.S. Attorneys office that Alex Acosta once ran. Earlier this month, Steven Snipe of West Palm Beach, Florida was sentenced in federal court to 15 years in prison after previously pleading guilty to one count of sex trafficking a minor and one count of producing child pornography. The details are here. The conviction resulted from the combined efforts of the local U.S. Attorneys office and the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan stated: Those who sexually exploit our youth turn children into victims of deplorable acts. Our law enforcement partners in the Southern District of Florida and throughout the Department commend the strength of those who have raised their voices against an abuser. We hear your calls for help and will continue to seek justice for all, through the united force of our federal human trafficking prosecutions. Epsteins victims, whom Acosta deprived even of their right under federal law to know about the plea deal, may have mixed feelings about the sentencing of Steven Snipe. They have reason to be pleased that Snipe will serve a long prison term and that the Justice Department now hear[s] victims call[s] for help. However, their disgust with Epsteins sharply contrasting deal of a lifetime may be reinforced. All this week we are featuring outstanding reviews and essays from the flagship publication of the Claremont Institute, the Claremont Review of Books. We are featuring one such essay in the adjacent post. It is one of the best magazines in the United States. I should probably add that I am a proud fellow of the Claremont Institute. In my case the fellowship is a purely honorific designation that I occasionally used with John when we first began to publish opinion columns in newspapers and magazines back in the early 1990s. The designation, by the way, goes back to the presidency of Larry Arnn. I always found the mission of the institute consistent with my own thoughts. That is not a coincidence; we were both inspired by Harry Jaffas work on Lincoln. It is the mission of the institute to restore the principles of the American Founding to their rightful, preeminent authority in our national life. In pursuit of its mission, the institute has opposed discrimination by race from the time of its own founding. The institutes opposition to discrimination by race has placed the institute deeply at odds with our political and cultural arbiters. That is the lesson I draw from Claremonts brush with Google censorship, as the headline on Claremont President Ryan Williamss column in the Wall Street Journal has it this morning. Ryan writes: Google wasnt represented at a Senate hearing last month on political censorship. But it assured lawmakers in a written statement that our products serve users of all viewpoints and remain politically neutral while acknowledging that sometimes our content moderation systems do make mistakes. This week my organization was hit by one such mistake. On our American Mind website, the Claremont Institute recently launched a campaign to engage citizens in debate about what it means to be an American. We are warning about the danger to the republic posed by multiculturalism, identity politics and politically correct speech restrictions. Google decided that our writings violated the companys policy on race and ethnicity in personalized advertising and prevented us from advertising to our own readers about our 40th-anniversary gala dinner this Saturday. The relevant section of Googles policy lists racially or ethnically oriented publications, racially or ethnically oriented universities, racial or ethnic dating as examples of violations. Either Googles algorithm, an employee or a combination must have designated the American Mind a racially or ethnically oriented publication. Thats ironic. For its 40-year history, the Claremont Institutes animating principle has been the proposition that all human beings are created equal. We spent hours on the phone with Google only to be told there would be no appeal and that the only remedy would be to remove the content. We asked which language violated the policy, and Googles representative responded that it could be any number of our pieces dealing with multiculturalism. Then, after we raised the issue publicly, Googles Washington office contacted us, told us it was a mistake, and restored our advertising rights. We appreciate their responsiveness and professionalism. But the companys explanation raises far more questions than it answers: Why do Googles censorship mistakes always seem to cut against conservative speech? Google should release in full its internal instructions and guidelines that were followed by the representatives with whom we interacted. Google employees initially concluded the censorship decision was correct. But if the original mistake was indeed algorithmic, what search terms and phrases does Google police? Google should release them in full. Why did Googles representatives tell Claremont that there was no appeal? And how many speakers end up being suppressed because they lack our bullhorn? What is happening here? What is really happening here? Why the repeated actions inconsistent with public statements? Annoy Google! Access Claremonts American Mind site here, at which Ryan has more to say in his American Mind column Algorithms of suppression. I wrote here about how, in a reversal of position, Sen. Elizabeth Warren is backing an Indian gaming bill tied to special interests. The bill aims to circumvent legal obstacles currently thwarting the Mashpee Wampanoags attempts to establish a casino. Warren used to be hostile to legalized gambling. As a candidate for the Senate in 2011, she strongly opposed successful efforts to expand casino-style gambling in Massachusetts. In 2014, she backed an unsuccessful ballot initiative to repeal the expansion on economic grounds. Why the reversal? Two reasons, I suspect. First, she likely was swayed by the rich, high-power interests behind the Indian gaming legislation. Second, backing the legislation provides Warren with an opportunity to get on the good side of the Indian establishment, portions of which take of dim view of the Senators attempts to pass herself off as part Indian. Heres another question: Why are some House Republicans helping Warrens gaming bill pass? Michael Graham reports: Last Wednesday the House Natural Resources Committee voted out H.R. 312, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Reservation Reaffirmation Act by a vote of 26-10, including three Republicans. And now the bill is being rushed to the full House for a vote possibly as soon as this Wednesday, reportedly with at least the acquiescence, if not the open support, of Republican leadership. Republican acquiescence leaves observers scratching their heads, given the dubious nature of the casino project and its importance to Warren: Progress on this bill, sometimes called the Warren Casino Bill, comes despite ongoing questions surrounding both the Mashpee tribewhose leadership is currently embroiled in a financial scandaland Genting Malaysia, the multinational gaming conglomerate that has already invested close to half a billion dollars in the project. Genting has also been linked to a political scandal in Malaysia that helped topple the government in Kuala Lumpur last year. Republicans opposing the casino are asking why Congress would want to move forward on such a troubled project, particularly given its connections to infamous DC moneyman and lobbyist Jack Abramoff. President Trump is among those who see the folly of backing Warrens Casino Bill. Today, he tweeted: Republicans shouldnt vote for H.R. 312, a special interest casino Bill, backed by Elizabeth (Pocahontas) Warren. It is unfair and doesnt treat Native Americans equally! Michael Graham, who has been following this story far more closely than I have, declines to speculate as to the reasons why some Republicans, and apparently the GOPs House leadership, are poised to help give Warren this victory. I wont either, though the phrase wheels within wheels comes to mind. Perhaps Trumps tweet will cause the Republican leadership to take another look at the matter, and maybe try to halt the Warren Casino Bill express. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 15:56:32 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 322 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 MONTREAL, QC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / SmartCelleTM is Altus Formulation's proprietary polymeric micellar technology for parenteral, oral and topical delivery of insoluble molecules. SmartCelle enables delivery of Altus and its partner's cannabinoid and other insoluble drug candidates. Altus is pleased to announce that it has partnered with Evonik's Business Line, Health Care to scale, manufacture and provide clinical and commercial supplies of the SmartCelle polymers. SmartCelle technology is protected by a range of issued patents around the globe.Commenting on the agreement Damon Smith CEO Altus stated, "We were very impressed with Evonik's polymer chemistry expertise and their deep understanding of biopolymer manufacturing; it was a simple choice to make." Andreas Karau, Global Head of Biomaterials for Evonik, said, "We look forward to working with Altus and to scaling their exciting new technology." About Altus FormulationAltus is a Quebec based drug formulation and development company using its proprietary and patent protected drug delivery technologies to generate novel, differentiated and cost-effective new products for its partners and their patients. With a focus on Safer to Use formulations, Altus' technologies include Intellitab abuse deterrent technology, Flexitab alcohol resistant breakable extended release tablets and SmartCelle technologies for delivery of large and small low solubility molecules.For more information please contact:Louise Fortin: lfortin@ altusformulation.com Tel: (1) 450 433 7673 x 8427Please also visit www.altusformulation.com About EvonikEvonik is one of the world leaders in specialty chemicals. The focus on more specialty businesses, customer-oriented innovative prowess and a trustful and performance-oriented corporate culture form the heart of Evonik's corporate strategy. They are the lever for profitable growth and a sustained increase in the value of the company. Evonik benefits specifically from its customer proximity and leading market positions. Evonik is active in over 100 countries around the world. In fiscal 2018, the enterprise with more than 32,000 employees generated sales of 13.3 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of 2.15 billion from continuing operations.SOURCE: Altus Formulation Inc. The new PAC at Torrey Pines. (Karen Billing) On May 1, Torrey Pines High School performed the final act in a saga over 20 years in the making: a dramatic and emotional ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new performing arts center. A performing arts center for Torrey Pines has long been a vision of the San Dieguito Union High School District board, fed by the unwavering determination of Marinee Payne. Payne, the drama teacher at Torrey Pines for nearly three decades, has been carrying the dream of the performing arts center since she arrived. The project was put on hold many times over the years as plans changed and funding was sought. Thanks to the passage of the Prop AA bond in 2012, Payne was able to watch from her corner spot in the campus Black Box Theater as the dream became a reality. In 2017, old buildings were knocked down to make way for the new and she watched the craftsman and construction crews at work building the dream from the ground up. To every student in this space, every person who put their fingerprints on this building, to those students who came before, you are the dreams that stuff is made on, Payne said, a nod to the Shakespeare quote she wears around her neck. This is your building. This is your building to fulfill your dreams and your aspirations and to watch you soar higher and farther than you ever thought you could. Lending a sense of drama to the occasionthe ribbon across the steps of the new building was particularly stubborn and would not cut. Payne got help with the giant scissors from her friend Joyce Dalessandro, a member of the school board for 23 years and a former TPHS parent who has long advocated for a new performing arts center for the school. After the ribbon finally snipped and fell, everyone cheered and Dalessandro and Payne hugged. The ribbon cutting was also a very special and emotional day for Principal Rob Coppo, a Torrey Pines High School alumni and veteran of the acting program. Several times during his comments he had to pause as he choked up with tears. As the former president of Torrey Pines Players, I am thrilled that our program is getting the upgrade it richly deserves. Without the arts program at Torrey Pines, Im not standing in front of you today, Coppo said. Im a living example of what the arts can do for people. Coppo recalled when drama classes were held in the lecture hall before moving into the campus Black Box Theater where magic was made for the next three decades. The performing arts center includes a brand new Black Box Theater in addition to the 350-seat proscenium theaterthe old black box space will be converted to nutrition services, possibly housing a student-run cafe for culinary arts. Our theater program is positively impacted many thousands of lives over its four decades. We will not only have a new venue for our talented thespians but our incredible dance and music programs have brand new classrooms and get to share a new home for their performances, Coppo said. I know our dancers and musicians are eager to have a stage that they can call home. A new tradition starts today and as future generations pass through these doors, the impact on their lives will be immeasurable. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the large crowd of parents, students and other guests filed through the big glass front doors to check out the new center, many gasping at how large the proscenium theater space was. Payne stood on the stage and pointed out the many state-of-the-art details and led a tour into the theaters back of house that includes a scene shop, green room and dressing rooms. Inside the new dance room, teacher Sarah Kayes students worked on choreographing a new routine set to a Billie Eilish song, dancing in front of a picture window that looks out into the quadthe dance room no longer hidden in the corner of campus. Inside the new performing arts center. (Karen Billing) The music building has seven practice rooms, ample storage and the south wall opens up to an amphitheater for additional outdoor performance space. During the ceremony, proud Falcon dad and SDUHSD Chief Facilities Officer Mike Coy made sure to thank McCarthy Construction and Roesling Nokamura Terada Architects for their work on the facility. This is a beautiful building. Not only does it look great, its a performing arts center so it has to sound great, said Coy, noting that they turned to John Sergio Fisher and Associates to perfect the acoustical engineering details. Coy said he knew they had accomplished their goals when he walked into the new band room in April and heard the string orchestra playing. I knew it would sound good but I had no idea it would sound that good, it was absolutely amazing, just spectacular, Coy said. The music teacher Amy Gelb told me now her students are hearing things in their music they never otherwise could hear. A room that was acoustically dead previously, is now alive. The first performance in the new center will be by the band on June 3 at 7 p.m. and Coy invited everyone to come support the music program in its new venue. Although new to the district, Superintendent Robert Haley said he understood that the PAC was more than just a brick building, but something special and magical. When I look over at this building I see how much this community cares about its schools and making sure that the students in the schools have the very best, Haley said. For that, Im very proud to be here as superintendent. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 10:48:53 Press Information Trends market research united kingdom ved TL 2033221521 email https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com # 627 Words united kingdomTL2033221521 Cardiovascular disorders or heart disorders are disorders of circulatory systems and heart. Inflammatory heart disease, hypertensive heart disease, cerebrovascular heart disease, rheumatic heart disease, and ischemic heart disease fall under the commonly diagnosed cardiovascular disorders. In most cases, the occurrence of high blood pressure leads to hypertensive heart ailments. Major effects of hypertensive heart ailments include hypertrophy, angina, coronary heart disease and heart failure. Similarly, Rheumatic heart disorders are caused by frequent rheumatic fever. In most occasions, Group A streptococcal infection lead to occurring of rheumatic fever.The disorder is mostly identified in children across the globe, especially in developing economies. Cerebrovascular ailment affects neurones and blood vessels of the brain. Most commonly occurring cerebrovascular disorders include stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), vascular dementia, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Reduced supply of blood to the heart is a major characteristic of Ischemic heart disorders. High death rates have been registered due to ischemic heart disorders, especially in western parts of the globe. While inflammatory heart disorders are caused mainly due to virus or bacterial infections. Such type of disorders is linked with a history of Kawasaki disease or rheumatic fever.Get More Information about Cardiovascular Drugs Market : https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/sample/3021 Factors such as the arrival of newer and advanced drugs and growing prevalence of heart diseases are expected to drive the global cardiovascular drugs market in near future. In addition, higher occurrence of life-style diseases and rise in the global geriatric population is further contributing to the market growth. Moreover, increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes are fueling the demand for cardiovascular drugs.In contrast, risk of side-effects from cardiovascular drugs and stern regulatory norms are expected to pose challenges for the market growth. Likewise, the expiration of the patent for several blockbuster drugs is an additional factor anticipated to inhibit the growth of global cardiovascular market. Introduction of improved drug combinations and increasing in acquisition and mergers between pharmaceutical companies are key trends governing the global cardiovascular drug market.Request for Table of Contents: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/requesttoc/3021 On the basis of drugs, the global cardiovascular drugs market is segmented into anti-dyslipidemics drugs, anti-thrombotics drugs and anti-hypertensive drugs. The Anti-dyslipidemics drug segment is further sub-segment into Tredaptive, Lipitor, Niaspan, Zetia/Vytorin, Crestor, and TriCor/Trilipix. The Anti-hypertensive drug segment is also sub-segmented into Seloken/Toprol-XL, Diovan/Co-Diovan, Benicar/Benicar HCT, Blopress, Aprovel/CoAprovel, Edarbi, Exforge/Exforge HCT, Coversyl, Micardis/Micardis HCT, Tekturna/Rasilez, Cozaar/Hyzaar, and Norvasc. The Anti-thrombotics drug segment includes Lovenox, Plavix, Brilique/Brilinta, Pradaxa, Eliquis and Xarelto.Key Players:Some of the key players operating in the cardiovascular disease drug market are AstraZeneca plc, Pfizer, Inc., Sanofi S.A., Merck & Co., Daiichi Sankyo Company Limited, Novartis AG, Bayer AG, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Astellas Pharma Inc., Johnson & Johnson, United Therapeutics Corporation, Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd"Report Description: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/cardiovascular-drugs-market View more : Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, & Medical Devices Report InsightsAbout Us:Trends Market Research is one of the leading digital services provider and a result-oriented company based in U.K... We are a team of enthusiastic-driven individuals with top notch skills in SEO, Market research. Trends Market Research is a one stop shop to all your business needs. We help you thrive and succeed. We provide research solution.Our digital and enterprise research assurance solutions are ideal for Automotive & Transportation, Electronics & Semiconductor, Chemicals & Materials, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices, Food & Beverage and Industrial Automation as well as all type of other leading industries verticals. We offer a vast line of in-depth study of industry trends including customized & client oriented specific requirement.Contact Us:One Vincent SquareWestminster, London SW1P 2PNUnited KingdomEmail: sales@ trendsmarketresearch.com Website: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 12:20:58 Press Information Trends Market Research One Vincent Square Westminster, London SW1P 2PN United Kingdom T: +44 2033221521 Email: sales@trendsmarketresearch.com Website: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com email Published by Ethan Taylor +44-631-787-4201 e-mail https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com # 838 Words One Vincent SquareWestminster, London SW1P 2PNUnited KingdomT: +44 2033221521Email: sales@trendsmarketresearch.comWebsite: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.comEthan Taylor+44-631-787-4201 Natural language processing (NLP) is a major element of artificial intelligence (AI) for advanced communicating with intelligent systems with the help of natural language. It aids computers in responding and reading by mimicking the human capability to recognise the day-to-day language that they adopt to communicate. Today, without natural language processing, AI can only answer simple questions and understand the meaning of language, but will not able to recognise the significance of words in framework. Natural language processing applications permits users to connect with a computer in their own words.Report For Sample with Table of Contents@ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/sample/3014 Drivers With increasing usage of internet, computers, smart phones and many other personal devices, the requirement for machine and human level communication has increased. Everybody from enterprise to individual users nowadays need machines that can respond to their questions, support them in their daily basis operations and also make their life organized and easier. This demand has given rise to increased demand for natural language processing technology which is now being quickly commercialized. Natural language processing technology is the most adoptable technology for cognitive systems due to its easy and advanced language conversation process and which boosts the growth of Cognitive Systems Spending. Increasing technology advancement in cognitive systems will help to track both external and internal threats. Complex data hacking due to internal users mistakably revealing the corporate systems data to threats are increasing the importance of Cognitive systems.These abilities will open a new world of insights and data analytics for companies and assist them to report cyber security and security issues threats. Cognitive security tools with such advanced capabilities will help organizations address cyber security threats and compliance issues. The tools offered by cognitive systems will help security teams to make more informed decisions, quickly seal security breaches at all levels and thus in turn increase the demand of overall Cognitive Systems Spending.Trends An emerging Trend which is boosting cognitive systems spending growth is the rising demand for predictive analytics. Cognitive system integration permits communicative relocation of real-time data between machineries and networks. The growing need to strategically monitor information and analyse will eventually influence the overall cognitive systems spending that is projected to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period. Moreover, large businesses have recognized that they can use big data to deliver better services, optimize costs, and boost revenues. Therefore, large industries have benefited from advances in big data techniques via examination of customer buying behaviour and buying patterns. On the basis of data points, predictive modelling techniques are customized to a group or an individual customer. This can leads to improving the overall efficacy of the production while reducing costs and efficient and accurate solutions. Hence, the increasing demand of predictive analytics in North America is fuelling the growth of overall Cognitive Systems Spending.Request For Report Discount@ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/discount/3014 Natural Language Processing Technology Analysis, by product typeNatural language processing technology segment is expected to be valued at US$ 13003.8 Mn by 2025 and is projected to register a CAGR of XX over the forecast period. Natural language processing technology segment will only grow as the exponential increase in information ads to the continued pressure to improve knowledge worker performance and decision making. Knowledge workers are facing an ever-increasing amount of information to deal with.Natural Language Processing Technology Analysis, by deploymentNatural language processing technology segment to account for the significant market share of 60.6% in the North America market by 2026 end. Natural language processing technology segment is the most adoptable technology for cognitive systems due to its easy and advanced language conversation process which will thereby boost the growth of cognitive systems spending.Natural Language Processing Technology Analysis, by applicationIn terms of value, natural language processing technology segment is anticipated to register a CAGR of XX over the forecast period. Natural language processing technology segment finds its end-users in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and banking. Approximately 60% of cognitive systems with natural language processing technology are used by large and medium manufacturing industries, banking sector and others.Natural Language Processing Technology Analysis, by RegionOn the basis of region, North America region is projected to remain dominant throughout the forecast period. Natural language processing technology segment is estimated to account for the significant market share of 64.8% in the North America market by 2016 end. The presence of several natural language processing technology service provider companies in North America is expected to play an important role in revenue growth of the natural language processing technology segment in the North America market. Natural language processing technology segment is expected to witness robust growth in Western Europe and APEJ market driven by increasing cloud based solution demand in the region, as natural language processing technology is highly used by end-user such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and banking in these regions.Key Players:Microsoft Corporation, IBM Corporation, Google Inc., Symantec Corporation, Palantir Technologies, Inc., Recommind, Inc.and OpenText Corporation etc.Report Analysis@ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/cognitive-systems-market PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 18:00:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 963 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 FREMONT, CA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Durabook Americas Inc., the North American subsidiary of Twinhead International Corporation, today announced that a broad selection of its renowned rugged computers, including the R8300, U11, R11 and S14I, are available via the U.S. Air Force Client Computing Solutions (CCS-2) Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) in the Rugged Systems category for fiscal year 2019a (January 1 - June 30). Availability was secured through Durabook Americas' channel partners Transource Computers (CCS-2 contract FA8055-17-A-1104) and NCS Technologies Inc. (CCS-2 contract FA8055-17-A-1102)."We continue to experience a growing interest in the Durabook brand among Department of Defense and other government customers," said Joe Guest, president, Durabook Americas. "This is a significant milestone for the company and one we could not have achieved without our partnership with Transcource Computers and NCS Technologies. The combination of our globally respected rugged computing solutions, market expertise, integration and customization capabilities, service, approachable price points and channel partners allows us to deliver the best possible solutions available. We're proud to be able to serve our growing government customer base." The Durabook line of rugged notebooks and tablets can be purchased under CCS-2 via the AFWay (Air Force Way) e-commerce portal ( https://www.afway.af.mil/) Durabook Americas: DURABOOK R8300, S14I, U11 and R11 Available to Department of Defense Customers via U.S. Air Force CCS-2 BPAAuthorized users of the Air Force CCS-2 BPA include, but are not limited to, Department of the Air Force, Department of the Army, Department of the Navy, Defense Health Agency-Air Force (DHAAF), Office of the Secretary of Defense, the White House Communications Agency (WHCA) and the Office of the Secretary of Defense, as well as contractors supporting these agencies who are on contract to fulfill government requirements when authorized under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 51.100 and by the BPA PCO provided there is no conflict with the GSA definition of authorized users.DURABOOK R8300The DURABOOK R8300 R3 is engineered to operate reliably in the most extreme environments. The device meets military standards (MIL-STD-810G) and has other critical certifications for drop, vibration, ingress, salt fog, hazardous environments, temperature, humidity and altitude. The R8300 R3 features an Intel 7th generation Core processor, an Intel HD 620 Graphics package, Windows 10, up to 21 hours of power, a 13.3" 1050 nit sunlight readable XGA (1024768) TFT LCD touchscreen, quick-release hard drive and a waterproof and backlit keyboard.DURABOOK R11The R11 tablet features an 8th Generation Intel Core processor, an Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU and Windows 10 Pro, making it a powerful, enterprise-class, rugged mobile computing solution. The device offers up to 16 hours of battery life and features an IP65 rating and MIL-STD-810G certification for drop, shock, vibration, dust, sand, explosive atmosphere, high/low temperature and more, plus ANSI 12.12.01 C1D2 certification. The R11 has an 11.6" FHD (1920 x 1080) sunlight readable LCD. The 10-point capacitive multi-touch panel can be used with a glove, stylus or finger, even if the screen is wet, optimizing the device's usability regardless of work conditions.DURABOOK U11The fully rugged Durabook U11 tablet features an Intel 7th Generation CPU, Windows 10 Pro, 8-16GB of RAM, 128-512GB quick-release SSD, DOD-level security and a full HD sunlight readable LCD. The device, designed for workers who face the most challenging operating environments, is MIL-STD-810G certified for drop (6'), shock, vibration, rain, dust, sand, humidity, freeze/thaw, high/low temperature (- 4F ~ 140F) and temperature shock. The device meets MIL-STD-461G for electromagnetic interference, ANSI 12.12.01 C1D2 for explosive atmosphere and has an IP65 rating. The U11's 11.6 FHD (1920 x 1080) LCD features a 10-point capacitive multi-touch panel allowing users to keep their gloves on when engaging with the device, its touchscreen operates even when wet and its hot-swappable battery enables workers to operate uninterrupted when charging isn't an option.DURABOOK S14IThe Durabook S14I expands the definition of semi-rugged computing to include a category-first 4' drop and IP53 ratings. The device also has an operational range of -4F - 140F allowing for use in a wide range of environments. The S14I features a 14", 1000 Nit, 1920 x 1080, 10-point multi-touch capacitive Full HD IPS DynaVue display with Stealth and Night Vision modes. The device is powered by an 8th Generation Intel Core processor, an Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU (or an optional NVIDIA GeForce GTX1050) and Windows 10 Pro. The S14I also features a waterproof keyboard, fingerprint scanner, a quick-release hard drive allowing sensitive data to be secured in a safe environment and a hot-swappable/bridge battery design, allowing for non-stop work in the field.DURABOOK COMPUTERSKnown for reliability, custom configurations and attractive acquisition costs, the Durabook brand has a loyal customer base around the globe. Durabook devices are used by all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, public safety agencies across the country and numerous field service organizations, as well as companies in oil & gas, logistics, healthcare, utilities and automotive markets.SUPPORTTo help its customers address the challenges and complexity of deploying and managing their mobility solutions, Durabook Americas offers a wide range of support services. These services include device customization, consulting, disk imaging, deployment assistance, installation, extended and no-fault warranty options, warranty depot repair center with 48-hour turn-around-time, a live U.S.-based call center, device retirement and an online support center for drivers and manuals.WARRANTYThe standard Durabook "2-D" warranty protects devices against defects in materials and workmanship. The "3-D" warranty provides the same coverage as the 2D while also adding accidental damage coverage for the fully rugged Durabook U11, R8300 and R11 models at no extra cost.ABOUT TRANSOURCE COMPUTERSFounded in 1984, Transource Computers has steadily grown into a highly visible and competitive master system integrator providing total solution integration with custom PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 12:15:04 Press Information FactMR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Abhishek Budholiya Marketing Manager 353-1-4434-232 email https://www.factmr.com/ # 667 Words 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United StatesMarketing Manager353-1-4434-232 The report on hormone replacement therapy market provides incisive insights on all aspects influencing growth in demand for hormone replacement therapy worldwide. The report provides a thorough analysis on demand of hormone replacement therapy across key regions in the globe along with sales of various hormone replacement therapy products.The hormone replacement therapy market is foreseen to expand at a significant pace with sales of hormone replacement therapy products crossing US$ 12,000 Mn by 2019 end. Rising incidences of osteoporosis fractures coupled with growing menopause rates among women have remained instrumental in driving the demand for hormone replacement therapy. Fact.MR envisages that the demand for hormone replacement therapy is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.0% in terms of value throughout the period of forecast, 2018-2028.Request Free Sample Report Here:Sales of hormone replacement therapy products through hospital pharmacies and retail pharmacies are likely to be on an upswing with developers of hormone replacement therapy products relying on these channels than online selling. Retail pharmacies are expected to remain an attractive distribution channel for hormone replacement therapy products, with sales accounting for a larger revenue share of the overall hormone replacement therapy market. The sales of hormone replacement therapy through clinics are projected to grow at a steady during the 2018-2028 timeline.The hormone replacement therapy market is expected to remain influenced by increasing government support apropos to womens health. Governments and non-profit organizations of various countries are spreading awareness regarding hormone replacement therapy along with providing free treatments to lower and middle class people. Regulatory authorities such as FDA are also contributing to the cause of supporting womens health by launching initiatives such as Take Time To Care (TTTC) programs. This aspect is likely to support the growth of the hormone replacement therapy market in the coming years.Browse Full report with TOC:Market StructureThe hormone replacement therapy market is segmented in detail to cover every angle of the hormone replacement therapy space. The hormone replacement therapy market has been segmented on the basis of product type, by dosage form, by indication, by distribution channel and by region.Various hormone replacement therapy products such as estrogen hormone replacement therapy, thyroid hormone replacement therapy and growth hormone replacement therapy is covered. By dosage form, hormone replacement therapy market is segmented into tablets, patches, injections, implants and creams. By indications, hormone replacement therapy market is categorized into menopause, osteoporosis, thyroid and growth hormone deficiency. By distribution channel, it is segmented by hospital pharmacies, clinics, retail pharmacies and online pharmacies.The hormone replacement therapy market is assessed across key regions such as North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Middle East and Africa (MEA) and Japan.Combination Hormone Replacement Therapy Associated with Cancer Key Growth DeterrentUse of hormone replacement therapy can lead to cancerous cell development. The use of combination hormone replacement therapy (combination of progesterone and estrogen) can increase the risk of breast cancer by 75 percent even if used for a short timeframe. According to the U.S Womens Health Initiative, the use of combination hormone replacement therapy comes with the risk of development of several cancers including ovarian and uterus cancers. This aspect is expected to confine the growth in adoption of hormone replacement therapy in the forthcoming years. Other hormone replacement therapy related disorders such as stroke, cardiac disorders and blood clots are further expected to negatively impact the growth of the hormone replacement therapy market.The hormone replacement therapy market is a fragmented landscape with presence of few tier one companies and upcoming players. Top five companies involved in the hormone replacement therapy formulations account for a significant share of the overall hormone replacement therapy market. Top 5 players Novo Nordisk, Pfizer Inc., Janssen NV (a Johnson & Johnson company), Novartis AG and Bayer AG collectively collectively account for 35 percent revenue share of the hormone replacement therapy market from on the global front. The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application and industry. Disclaimer: If you have any questions regarding information in this press release please contact the company added in the press release. Please do not contact pr-inside. We will not be able to assist you. PR-inside disclaims the content included in this release. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 15:43:23 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 933 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Integrated Ventures Inc (OTCQB: INTV) ("Company") is pleased to announce a signing of a Hosting and Marketing Agreement with PetaWatt Properties, LLC. As result, the previously contemplated transaction to acquire Erie Power, LLC has been terminated, due to (1) need for a significant capital requirements to re-start plant and build out mining infrastructure, (2) up to 6 months time line for launch of mining operations, (3) need for a significant dilution due to the recent stock pricing weakness and (4) company's ability to secure a similar deal, in terms of power cost, without any additional investment.>The AgreementOn May 7, 2019, Integrated Ventures has signed a three-year Agreement with PetaWatt Properties, LLC, which will allow Integrated Ventures (1) to consolidate and streamline all mining operations (NC, PA and NJ) into one location, (2) to eliminate Company's lease obligations and payroll expense and (3) to lower its power costs by over 50%, thus greatly enhancing mining profitability and long-term viability.In addition, Integrated Ventures intends to market PW's services to diversify its business by offering hosting and pool services via a la carte packages to third-party miners and market participants.> Crypto Market Is Coming Back!Digital currencies are an emerging asset class underpinned by blockchain, a transformational technology with use cases in virtually every industry.After experiencing historic growth (growing from a $7 billion market cap in January 2016 to a more than $600 billion market cap by late 2017), the cryptocurrency market entered a bear phase.However, recovery has been strong in recent months, with Bitcoin's value increasing nearly 70% from December 2018 to May 2019.Growing Institutional interest, a low cost of mining equipment and ROI are key factors for investment at these levels.> Business StrategyThe company has formulated and plans to execute a 6 step plan, designed to position INTV for the next bull cycle:OperationalRestructuring. To streamline and improve profitability of current operations, the company is switching from warehouse mining to third party hosting model, based on monthly flat fee and resulting in elimination of all major expenses such monthly lease, payroll, etc. All mining equipment (775+ rigs) is scheduled to be connected by May 30th.SecuringCompetitive Electricity Rates. By partnering with PetaWatt, Integrated Ventures will secure access to a lowest power pricing structure.GeneratingCash Flow via Hosting & Mining Revenue Share Services. Integrated Ventures intends to generate significant revenue through reselling of hosting and revenue share services.Locking-InRecord Low Hosting Rate. Newly secured Integrated Ventures' access to the most competitive power cost, will allow the company to utilize and market one of the the most competitive hosting rates in the industry, thus driving profitability and demand for long-term hosting contracts.ImplementingAll-In-One "Plug-and-Mine" Mining Solution. Integrated Ventures will offer clients an access to best hosting and pool rates for ASIC and GPU miners, creating a "We Work" -style turn-key mining option for miners seeking a fast market entry combined with a cost effective hosting and pool space.PurchasingDiscounted Mining Rigs from Secondary Markets. Integrated Ventures will keep costs low by purchasing equipment on the secondary market, a strategy that was not possible when the market was in its infancy.> Why Ramp Up Now?MarketStability: Bitcoin, and the broader crypto market, have been in recovery following a prolonged bear cycle. Bitcoin has risen from a low of $3,200 in December 2018 to roughly $6,000 in early May, 2019. The cryptocurrency sector market cap has risen from roughly $100 billion to $190 billion over the same period.GreatPoint & Less Competition: The cryptocurrency market's performance in 2019 indicates a reversal has occurred. However, the markets current total value is still less than 1/3rd of its value in January 2018. Additionally, the bear market was responsible for significant miner attrition. Competition has eased, creating greater profits for those still mining.Revenue OpportunityIntegrated Ventures will grow and earn revenues as follows:Mining.Currently,PetaWatt facility has up to 120MW capacity. Each 1 MW can power up to 650 rigs. At today's crypto prices, each rig can generate between $1.75 and $5.00 in profit per day, mainly due to the low electricity cost.Plug& Mine Hosting and Pool Solution. Integrated Ventures will offer long-term contracts for hosting services on monthly or revenue share basis.SummaryIntegrated Ventures will have reliable long-term access to inexpensive electricity through its three-year agreement with PetaWatt. An access to the low cost power is the key that will allow Integrated Ventures to mine far more profitably than most of its North American competitors and provide hosting services at the market's most competitive price point.Cost certainty, created by uninterrupted access to affordable power, will allow Integrated Ventures to incorporate all of the above strategies into our business model.The model allows Integrated Ventures to weather market downturns better than its competitors, while also positioning the company to earn significantly higher returns than its competitors during bull cycles.Finally, Integrated Ventures will operate and host both ASIC and GPU mining equipment. The importance of this is the flexibility it provides.ASIC mining is chip-based, and faster than GPU mining, but costlier.GPU mining is graphics-card based, more flexible than ASIC mining, and less costly.AboutIntegrated Ventures Inc: The Companyoperates asTechnology Holdings Company with focus on cryptocurrency sector. For more information, please visit company's website atAboutPetaWatt Properties, LLC: Located in upstate NY,PetaWattis a vertically integrated energy, facilities & service provider to high demand energy consumers, such as blockchain cryptominers, hydroponic operators and data centers. PetaWAtt focuses on developing local smart energy hubs -a mix of data centers, hydroponic produce operators and cryptominers. PetaWatt provides the necessary infrastructure to sup The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application and industry. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 14:40:17 Press Information Fact.MR Office: Dublin 2 Suite 9884 27 Upper Pembroke Street, Dublin 2, Ireland Sudip Saha Head of Marketing +353-1-4434-232 email http://www.factmr.com # 753 Words Office: Dublin 2Suite 988427 Upper Pembroke Street,Dublin 2, IrelandHead of Marketing+353-1-4434-232 A recent research study by Fact.MR finds that the microreactor sales reached 294 thousand units in 2018 and are projected to grow at a Y-O-Y of nearly 9% in 2019. Increasing competition among manufacturing companies in order to develop finer products remains a key aspect spurring the demand for microreactor technology. Ability of microreactor technology to facilitate effective and efficient drug synthesis is one of the key factors responsible for its rising adoption in the pharmaceutical industry.The report finds that increasing demand for process intensification has inspired various chemical industries to adopt microreactor technology. Capability of microreactor technology to enable continuous reactions in small channels instead of large-scale components, which results in effective mixing of the reagents and seamless heat transfer, is enhancing its visibility as compared to the conventional technologies. Moreover, inherently safer design with high efficacy has also been identified to boost utilization of microreactor technology in challenging applications areas of the chemical industry.Request Sample Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2815 Microreactor Technology Gains Ground as Key Enabler of One-Step Reactions with Minimal WastageUse of microreactor has witnessed a notable rise in multiple industrial ecosystems, such as chemical and pharmaceutical, on the wake of its ability to offer high-throughput with use of minimum amount of materials. Moreover, the one-step reactions enabled by microreactor technology aids in elimination of the risk associated with waste products, resulting in high-quality end-products, which drives its adoption across end-use verticals to achieve unparalleled productivity.Microreactor technology is also being widely acknowledged by various end-use industries for its ability to catalyze faster reactions, which also ensures higher yields of up to cent percent with no compromise in terms of quality. Microreactors have evolved as a standard tool for end users for ameliorating quality via accurate control of crucial operation parameters, ranging from pressure to space velocities, Senior Analyst, Fact.MR With 157 thousand units sold in 2018, the demand for falling film microreactor thrives on the back of its larger specific surface area as compared to the conventional reactors, finds Fact.MR . Asia micro reactor remains the most prominent mixing type and is likely to witness remarkable growth in the forthcoming years, driven by efficacy in terms of resistance and transparency.The report further states that sales of each material type will remain highly influenced by the specific advantages and disadvantages offered by in terms of price and compatibility with the reagents or heat conductivity. Glass microreactor remains the top-selling variant on the wake of its superior compatibility with aggressive media and reagents. Moreover, benefits of glass microreactors in terms of transparency and convenience has been widely acknowledged, which has further triggered their adoption across various end-use industries.Browse Full Report @ https://www.factmr.com/report/2815/microreactor-technology-market Significant Benefits over Batch Processing to Foster PopularityMicroreactor technology is becoming highly appealing to the production departments in the pharmaceutical industry, followed by specialty chemicals. Benefits of continuous-flow processes over batch chemistry remain instrumental in heightened adoption of microreactor technology in both pharmaceutical and specialty chemicals landscape, translating into fast-paced synthesis of organic compounds amidst hazardous conditions with minimized waste. Moreover, the adoption of microreactor technology also offers additional benefits in terms of capital investment and operating expenses with notable reduction of the time-to-market aspect, which is bolstering its adoption across diverse end user industry verticals.According to the report, microreactor technology market remains consolidated at the bottom, with the tier 3 or emerging players holding a considerable revenue share. Specific product segments and augmentation of volume sales remain two of the key focal points of these emerging players. Fact.MRs report offers actionable intelligence with a comprehensive opportunity assessment of the microreactor technology market. The report finds that the microreactor technology market is likely to grow at a volume CAGR of around 8% through 2028.You can Buy This Report from Here @ https://www.factmr.com/checkout/2815/S Table of Content Covered in the report are:1. Executive Summary1.1. Key takeaways1.2. Summary of Key Findings1.3. Summary of Statistics1.4. Fact.MR Analysis and Recommendations1.5. Megatrends1.6. Opportunity Assessment2. Innovations in Product and Consumer Response2.1. Diffusion of Innovation in Consumer Behavior2.2. Product specifications and consumer preference attributes2.3. Acceptance by the end users and demographic impact2.4. Factors affecting inclination of consumer base2.5. Popularity of flow processes in chemical reactions2.6. Merits and demerits of switching over to flow chemistry2.7. Affect upon field of medicine and fine chemicals3. Decrypting Channel Preferences3.1. Effect of pricing fluctuations upon global market3.2. Product quality and adaptability to present technology3.3. Alternate product options in the market3.4. Brand/Manufacturer Preference The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application and industry. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 14:37:17 Press Information Fact.MR Office: Dublin 2 Suite 9884 27 Upper Pembroke Street, Dublin 2, Ireland Sudip Saha Head of Marketing +353-1-4434-232 email http://www.factmr.com # 715 Words Office: Dublin 2Suite 988427 Upper Pembroke Street,Dublin 2, IrelandHead of Marketing+353-1-4434-232 The oil & gas pumps market is likely to witness sluggish growth, with global demand surpassing 9 million units by the end of 2018, according to a latest report by Fact.MR . Rising demand for oil and gas is resulting in the growing demand for equipment such as oil & gas pumps. End-users in oil and gas industries are demanding efficient oil & gas pumps to ensure smooth operation and to meet stringent emission standards.End-users of oil & gas pumps are using centrifugal pumps on a large scale owing to its low product and maintenance cost, and better load and pressure handling capabilities. The demand for centrifugal pumps is healthy in the upstream oil & gas industry as the part of multiphase pumping application.As per the report, the demand for submersible pumps is also likely to grow in the near future. Electric submersible pumps are being used on a large scale as water and oil separators. The centrifugal pumps are also expected to witness increasing demand for crude oil transportation. Manufacturers in oil and gas pumps marketare focusing on pump modification to save significant amount of energy and improve performance.Request Sample Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2435 Onshore Oil & Gas Pumps to Find Large Application in Projects across CountriesThe Fact.MR study opines that the onshore oil & gas pumps are likely to witness a rapid growth in the coming years. Demand for onshore oil & gas pumps is expected to exceed 4.8 million units in 2018. With rise in energy demand from various sectors and growth in the transportation industry, many countries, especially in Asia Pacific, are moving towards development of new oil & gas projects.India, China, and Indonesia are expected to significantly contribute to the growth of oil and gas industry in the region. With the signs of recovery in oil prices, many state-owned oil companies in the Asia Pacific region are spending on onshore oil and gas production to ensure energy security.Upgradation of existing onshore oil and gas facilities and development of new facilities is also accelerating in Southeast Asia. Moreover, in recent years, regulation in the UK has removed legal hurdles in the development of onshore petroleum resources. Moreover, in terms of gas transportation by the onshore gas producers in the UK, the government has removed requirement to hold a gas transporter license, and a class exemption has been introduced to cover all types of onshore gas production.MEA to Continue its Dominance in Oil & Gas Pumps Market, Followed by APAC Fact.MR study estimates that the Middle East and Africa will be the most lucrative market for oil & gas pumps market, with demand surpassing 3 million units towards 2018 end. UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have emerged as the major natural gas producing countries.Major oil and gas companies in Middle East are focusing on increasing oil and gas production to meet the growing demand. Middle East and North Africa are expected to emerge as the global suppliers of oil and gas. Moreover, gas is likely to surpass oil as the largest energy source in the near future.The leading oil and gas companies in the region are also focusing on using advanced technologies and equipment to ensure faster and cost-effective oil and gas production. In the APAC region, China, India, Malaysia, and Indonesia are expected to witness significant growth in the oil and natural gas projects.Browse Full Report @ https://www.factmr.com/report/2435/oil-gas-pumps-market The oil & gas pumps market is expected to witness sluggish growth, with the demand expected to reach 3.2% CAGR in terms of volume during 2018-2028, according to the Fact.MR report.Table of Content Covered in the report are:1. Oil & Gas Pumps Market- Executive Summary1.1. Market Overview1.2. FMR Analyzed1.3. Oil & Gas Pumps Market Opportunity Assessment1.3.1. Winning and Losing Components1.4. Market White Spaces Analysis and Wheel of Fortune Opportunity Analysis2. Global Oil & Gas Pumps Market Introduction2.1. Introduction & Definition2.2. Market Taxonomy3. Market Dynamics3.1. Key Market Trends and Drivers3.2. Key Challenges4. Associated Industry Assessment4.1. Global Pumps Market Overview4.1.1. Global Pumps Market Analysis (US$ Mn and Units) and Forecast, 2013-20284.1.2. Global Pumps Market Analysis and Forecast by Region, 2018 & 20284.1.3. Global Pumps Market Analysis and Forecast by Product Type, 2018 & 20284.1.3.1. Centrifugal Pumps4.1.3.2. Reciprocating Pumps4.1.3.3. Rotary Pumps4.1.4. Market Attractiveness Analysis by Product TypeYou can Buy This Report from Here @ https://www.factmr.com/checkout/2435/S Pigment, an eclectic San Diego-born home goods and gift boutique has opened up shop in One Paseo. Sara Kennedy, manager for all three San Diego Pigment stores, said people are often delighted and surprised when they walk into One Paseos spacious feel-good store that draws inspiration from color, design and flora. Its very inviting and theres so much green, Kennedy said of Pigments wide variety of succulents, cacti, house plants and air plants as well as lots of pots and planters. Pigment in One Paseo. Meg Evans Husband and wife team Chad Anglin and Amy Paul first opened as a North Park gallery to showcase local artists in 2007. In 2009 that expanded into the first Pigment store in North Park and a second location opened in Liberty Station last year. One Paseo is a beautiful center, they put a lot of love into it, said Kennedy. Were really excited to be in North County, our customers have asked for it for years. Kennedy said despite being around for 10 years there are still plenty of people who are still just discovering themwhen asked she always says she works at a gift shop but she knows that Pigment is so much more. Throughout the store there are pockets of products from unique baby clothing to kitchenware, stationary to furniture. Kennedy said Pigment is also known for their one-of a-kind fine jewelry piecesthe One Paseo store does not carry Marrow Fine as the rest of their stores do as Marrow Fine has its own shop across the plaza, but they do sell custom Kasia Jewelry. Succulents ready for planting. Karen Billing Each Pigment store is a little different. Point Loma has its customized t-shirt bar and North Park has its photo boothKennedy said One Paseos niche is still evolving. One thing they do have that is unique is the front patio that will be able to host workshops and private eventsits also an outdoor space where customers can flex their green thumbs in the Pigment Plant Lab, which has a variety of accents such as pebbles, crystals, colored sand and moss. The research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the market and contains thoughtful insights, facts, historical data and statistically supported and industry-validated market data. It also contains projections using a suitable set of assumptions and methodologies. The research report provides analysis and information according to market segments such as geographies, application and industry. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 14:37:47 Press Information Fact.MR Office: Dublin 2 Suite 9884 27 Upper Pembroke Street, Dublin 2, Ireland Sudip Saha Head of Marketing +353-1-4434-232 email http://www.factmr.com # 650 Words Office: Dublin 2Suite 988427 Upper Pembroke Street,Dublin 2, IrelandHead of Marketing+353-1-4434-232 The global demand for oil refining pumps is expected to surpass 3 million tons by 2018 end, according to a latest Fact.MR report on oil refining pumps market. Rising oil and gas production, and increase in petroleum-based power generation are driving oil refining pumps demand. The oil supply has sharply increased from Russia, Middle East, and the US, compensating for fall in oil production in Iran and Venezuela.The demand for centrifugal pumps is constantly rising in upstream oil and gas industry in multiphase or tri-phase pumping application. With the increasing demand for oil, especially in developing regions, transporting a large amount of liquid has become necessary to ensure operational efficiency. This is driving the demand for centrifugal pumps to transport a significant amount of liquid in a short period.Request Sample Report @ https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2434 APAC to Continue Strong Position in Oil Refining Pumps MarketThe Fact.MR study projects that APAC continues to register significant growth in the oil refining pumps market and is likely to account for over 40% of total demand by 2018 end. The positive outlook in the region can be attributed to the growing demand for diesel and gasoline in emerging nations like India and China.The upgradation of existing oil refineries and robust investment in the construction of new oil refineries is fueling the growth in the oil refining pumps market in the region. Rising oil demand and faced with strict emission regulations, India is also moving towards development of new and modern refineries.According to the International Energy Agency (IEAs) latest World Outlook Projection, Indias refining capacity is likely to grow by two-thirds in the next 25 years. This is expected to make India worlds third largest refining center by 2040, following the US and China.Major oil companies in Southeast Asia are also investing in increasing their refining capacity. Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand are likely to see growth in new refining capacity in the coming years. The development of new and advanced oil refineries in APAC is expected to create growth opportunities for oil refining pumps manufacturers.Browse Full Report @ https://www.factmr.com/report/2434/oil-refining-pumps-market Energy Transition Emerging as Serious Challenge for Oil Companies and Oil Exporting CountriesGlobal oil companies and oil exporting countries are likely to face a challenge with the rise in energy transition. The biggest challenge for oil companies make changes in their business model and integrating low-carbon assets in their portfolios. With the growing trend of renewable energy sources, oil exporting countries with good reserves-to-production ration are facing the risk of loss in export revenues and monetizing their large reserve base.Penetration of renewables has increased in Europe to meet the energy demand, resulting in reduced oil demand. Moreover, regulation by national governments and European Union is likely to further reduce refined oil demand in the region. Oil refineries in Europe are unable to find buyers, resulting in constant drop in profit margins. Inability to find buyers and drop in profit margins is forcing oil refinery operators to shut down the plants.More refinery plants shutdown expected in the coming years in Europe is likely to impact the oil refining pumps market in the region. Moreover, key oil companies across various regions are also planning to invest more in low-carbon energy sources with aim to reduce carbon footprints.The Fact.MR report tracks the oil refining pumps market for the period 2018-2028. According to the report, the oil refining pumps market is expected to reach 2.9% CAGR during 2018-2028.You can Buy This Report from Here @ https://www.factmr.com/checkout/2434/S Table of Content Covered in the report are:1. Oil Refining Pumps Market- Executive Summary1.1. Market Overview1.2. FMR Analyzed1.3. Oil Refining Pumps Market Opportunity Assessment1.3.1. Winning and Losing Components1.4. Market White Spaces Analysis and Wheel of Fortune Opportunity Analysis2. Global Oil Refining Pumps Market Introduction2.1. Introduction & Definition2.2. Market Taxonomy PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 15:03:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 366 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 CORAL GABLES, FL / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / The Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group, a global insurtech group that designs software solutions for insurance and reinsurance professionals in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, will demonstrate its reinsurance solution, WebXL, at IASA in Phoenix, June 2-5 and showcase digital agility for reinsurance transformation."Insurers need a reinsurance solution that will be able to respond to changing regulations and markets," says Gregory Moliner, CEO USA. "WebXL has demonstrated its flexibility by serving American insurers with widely varying needs and requirements." WebXL enhances management of ceded reinsurance by replacing legacy systems and clunky spreadsheets and quickly enabling additional portfolios' integration. Available in a cloud-based version, it optimizes reinsurance management and simplifies all processes, including run-off portfolios, managing natural catastrophe claims and generating decision-making reports.At this year's conference, Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group will allow attendees to learn more about its innovative solutions:Two dedicated vendor tours: Reinsurance Systems & Services and Policy Administration in a Digital WorldTailored in-depth demosMeet Gregory Moliner and his team at booth 1033.To arrange an appointment or a demo at IASA, sign up here.The 2019 Insurance Accounting and Systems Association (IASA) conference will attract more than 2,500 insurance accounting, technology, operations and financial professionals.About Prima Solutions-Effisoft GroupThe Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group is a global insurtech group that designs software solutions for insurance and reinsurance professionals in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific. It covers all business processes from life and health insurance (group and individual) to non-life and life reinsurance, in addition to regulatory compliance and business intelligence, including predictive simulations and actuarial calculations.With more than 300 customers and a worldwide network of partners, Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group enables insurance companies to accelerate their digital transformation, thanks to its highly configurable and scalable web software platform available in the cloud.About Prima Solutions-Effisoft USABased in Coral Gables, Florida, Effisoft USA is the group's North American division. U.S. clients include State Auto Insurance Companies, The Motorists Insurance Group, USAA, AXA, FBL and other insurers. www.effisoft.com/en Contact:Henry Stimpson, Stimpson Communications, 508-647-0705, Henry@ StimpsonCommunications.com SOURCE: The Prima Solutions-Effisoft Group PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 17:51:44 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1002 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Rockcliff Metals Corporation ("Rockcliff" or the "Company") (CSE: RCLF) (FRANKFURT: RO0, WKN: A2H60G) is pleased to announce that, further to its press release of February 22, 2019 (the "Transaction Press Release") announcing the reorganization transaction (the "Transaction") involving a financing (the "Greenstone Subscription") led by Greenstone Resources II LP ("Greenstone") and a transfer of significant assets from Norvista Capital Corporation (TSX-V: NVV) ("Norvista"), the Transaction has closed. The Company was listed and posted for trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") effective May 7, 2019 but was immediately halted from trading pending closing of its financings. The common shares of Rockcliff will commence trading on the CSE on May 8, 2019 under the symbol "RCLF" and CUSIP number 77289R209.Change of DirectorsEffective May 8, 2019, Mark Sawyer, Mike Romaniuk and Petra Decher were appointed directors of the Company to fill the vacancies created by the resignations of Bruce Durham, Ed King, Neil McMillan and William Johnstone as directors of the Company. Ken Lapierre and Don Christie remain directors of the Company. Ken Lapierre remains President and CEO, Aamer Siddiqui remains Interim CFO and William Johnstone remains Corporate Secretary of Rockcliff. For further information relating to the new directors of the Company and the effect of the Transaction on Rockcliff, reference is made to the Listing Statement of the Company, filed on the SEDAR profile for the Company at www.sedar.com and filed on the Company's profile on the CSE (the "Rockcliff Listing Statement").Ken Lapierre, President & CEO of Rockcliff commented; "This transformational transaction is finally complete and we can now position Rockcliff as a leading base metals developer and explorer in one of the most established mining jurisdictions in the world. Rockcliff is now very well funded as a result of a cornerstone investment from Greenstone and has secured two advanced stage copper assets and a leased processing facility from Norvista. Our 100% owned Tower copper project is anticipated to be fully permitted by Q4 of this year which will allow us to make a construction decision as early as Q1 of 2020. Over the next two years we will implement one of the largest copper-zinc focused exploration programs undertaken anywhere in the world by a junior resource company. It will include almost 100,000 metres of drilling and will provide substantial news flow to the market. This drill program gives us the potential to significantly increase our existing resources as we search for the next big discovery in this world class mining belt. We thank our shareholders for their overwhelming support and patience during this long and detailed process. We look forward to unlocking the full value of our high-grade Manitoba assets and transitioning Rockcliff into the next major base metal producer in the Flin Flon-Snow Lake greenstone belt." The FinancingsOn May 7, 2019, Rockcliff closed the flow-through equity financing of $19,862,600 (the "FT Financing") consisting of 82,760,833 common shares of Rockcliff that qualify as flow-through shares (the "FT Shares") for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act") priced at $0.24 per FT Share. The Greenstone Subscription Receipts (referred to in the April 1, 2019 press release) were converted into 49,819,167 common shares and the sum of $7,472,875 was released from escrow to Rockcliff. The AF Subscription Receipts (defined below) were converted into 2,402,665 common shares and the sum of $360,400 was released from escrow to Rockcliff. In addition, the FT Subscription Receipts (defined below) were converted into 5,000,000 common shares of Rockcliff the qualify as flow-through shares for purposes of the Tax Act and the sum of $1,000,000 was released from escrow to Rockcliff. Rockcliff raised an aggregate of $20,862,600 in flow-through funding and $7,833,275 in hard dollar funding for a total of $28,695,875.On May 2, 2019, Rockcliff closed the Additional Financing (referred to in the March 27, 2019 press release) with the placement of 2,402,665 subscription receipts (the "AF Subscription Receipts") priced at $0.15 per AF Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $360,400 and the placement of 5,000,000 flow-through subscription receipts (the "FT Share Subscription Receipts") that qualify as flowthrough shares for the purpose of the Tax Act priced at $0.20 per FT Share Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of $1,000,000 for total gross proceeds of $1,360,400 (the "Subscription Receipts Financing"). The funds received from the Subscription Receipts Financing were held in escrow until all conditions to the release of the funds were satisfied on May 8, 2019.Eligible finders will be paid cash fees of $81,795 and were issued 350,000 FT Broker Warrants and 78,633 AF Broker Warrants. Each FT Broker Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one (1) common share at a price of $0.20 until May 2, 2021 and each AF Broker Warrant entitles the holder to acquire one (1) common share at a price of $0.15 until May 2, 2021.The Asset AcquisitionOn May 3, 2019, Rockcliff closed the Asset Acquisition (as referred to in the Transaction Press Release) and acquired i) 100% of Norvista's interest in an option agreement with Hudbay Minerals Inc. (the "Talbot Option Agreement") granting Rockcliff an option to earn a minimum 51% interest in the Talbot Property in central Manitoba (the "Talbot Property"); and ii) 100% of Norvista's interest in a lease agreement with CaNickel Mining Limited providing for a lease of the mill and auxiliary facilities at the Bucko Lake Mine near Wabowden, in central Manitoba (the "Bucko Mill Lease"), in consideration for the issuance of 66,290,000 common shares of Rockcliff. In addition, pursuant to the agreement with Akuna Minerals Inc., Rockcliff acquired a 100% interest in certain mining claims located in central Manitoba, known as the Tower Property (the "Tower Property"), which is located approximately 40 kilometres east of the Talbot Property, in consideration for the issuance of 22,096,667 common shares of Rockcliff. For further particulars relating to the Asset Acquisition, reference is made to the Rockcliff Listing Statement.Escrow and Resale RestrictionsThe 88,386,667 common shares issued for the Asset Acquisition, the 82,760,833 common shares acquired by Greenstone pursuant to the Greenstone Commitment (as defined in the Transaction Press Release) along with the Security-as-a-Service (SaaS) Market PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 12:31:04 Press Information Trends Market Research One Vincent Square Westminster, London SW1P 2PN United Kingdom T: +44 2033221521 Email: sales@trendsmarketresearch.com Website: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com email Published by Ethan Taylor +44-631-787-4201 e-mail https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com # 534 Words One Vincent SquareWestminster, London SW1P 2PNUnited KingdomT: +44 2033221521Email: sales@trendsmarketresearch.comWebsite: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.comEthan Taylor+44-631-787-4201 Global Security-as-a-Service (SaaS) market revenues totalled US$ XX in 2016, and are anticipated to grow at a staggering CAGR of XX through 2026. Key factors propelling the adoption of SaaS services include proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing. The key end use sectors for SaaS include telecom and IT, BFSI, and healthcare remain the largest end-users of SaaS, with telecom and IT particularly witnessing robust adoption. By 2026, the revenue share of telecom & IT is expected to reach XX, whereas BFSI sector will account for XX of total revenues.Report For Sample with Table of Contents@ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/sample/3017 Concerns about potential security threats to confidential and important information is influencing telecom & IT companies to invest in SaaS. Consequently, providing end-to-end security solutions remains a lucrative mode of operation of SaaS companies. Prominent SaaS companies, including Intel Security, Cisco Systems, Inc., and Oracle Corporation are focusing on offering customised solutions to their clients. While IT & telecom will continue to remain the most lucrative end-user, gains will be steady in the healthcare and BFSI sector.Global SaaS market revenues remain equally concentrated between large players and local vendors. It is projected that by 2026, large companies and multinational corporations will account for over XX share, with the rest remaining fragmented among small and medium enterprises.A key trend in the global SaaS market is that service providers are focusing on becoming integrators of holistic solution providers rather than just offering one particular type of service.Reluctance to adopt cloud based solutions is steadily waning, and as more companies come on board, the SaaS market is anticipated to gain further traction.It is projected that the SaaS delivery market will grow at a higher rate as compared to traditional software. File sharing continues to be the leading end-use for SaaS globally, with virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) being the otherleading segment.For global players, growth of the security services of IoT and cost advantages remain key opportunities to leverage during the forecast period.Request For Report Discount@ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/discount/3017 Although the outlook on SaaS remains positive, longstanding challenges, such as difficulty in storing unstructured data and risk of organized attacks remain key challenges. Further, easy accessibility to data makes confidential information vulnerable to cyber-attack and hacks.Some of the leading market players profiled in this report include Intel Security, Oracle Corporation, Cisco Systems, Inc., Gemalto NV, Qualys Inc., Alert Logic Inc., Trend Micro Inc., Proofpoint Inc., Zscaler, Inc., and Okta, Inc.North America and Western Europe remain the two largest markets for SaaS, with the former accounting for over XX revenue share of the market in 2016. The North America SaaS market was valued at US$ XX billion in 2015, and is anticipated to grow at a staggering XX CAGR through 2026. Western Europe, the second largest market globally, will also be the fastest growing market after North America.It is worthwhile to mention that SaaS market in North America will be completely dominated by the U.S., with Canada accounting for only XX share of the market. This is expected to further decline to nearly XX by the end of the forecast period.Report Analysis@ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/security-as-a-service-%28saas%29-market As per a recent report Launched by TRENDS MARKET RESEARCH the global market for Senior Probiotics Supplements Market is set to surpass a valuation of US$ XX Mn by 2025. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 11:28:45 Press Information Trends Market Research One Vincent Square, Westminster, London SW1P 2PN, UK Phone: +44-161-850-8625 Ethan Analytics +442033221521 email https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com # 1025 Words One Vincent Square, Westminster, London SW1P 2PN, UKPhone: +44-161-850-8625Analytics+442033221521 "In this report, Trends market research offers a 8-year forecast of the global senior probiotics supplements market between 2018 and 2025. In terms of value, the market is expected to expand at a CAGR of XX% over the forecast period. The current study reveals the market trends and market dynamics in all seven regions that are expected to positively affect the current market environment and future scenario of the senior probiotics supplements market over the forecast period.Report DescriptionThis TMR report inspects the senior probiotics supplements market for the period 20182025. The prime objective of this report is to offer insights into developments in the senior probiotics supplements market that are gradually helping transform global businesses associated with the same.Get More Information About : https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/sample/3460 The global senior probiotics supplements market report begins by the executive summary and defining various categories and their share in the senior probiotics supplements market. It is followed by market dynamics, overview of the global senior probiotics supplements market, which includes TMR analysis of market drivers, restraints, opportunities and trends that are affecting growth of the senior probiotics supplements market. Furthermore, to understand the popularity of the market segment and regions, the attractiveness index with elaborated insights on the same is provided, which will show the markets attractiveness based on the factors such as CAGR and incremental opportunity.Elders are becoming aware about the health benefits probiotics supplements which in turn is surging the demand for senior probiotics supplements based products. Thus, enhancing the sales for formulation containing probiotic supplements. By the end of 2016, over 550 million people were aged over 65 year or older, which translates to roughly x% of the world population. Over next thirty years, the number of people ageing sixty year or above will increase thrice and projected to surpass XX billion- representing over 15% of the global population.Associated health benefits of probiotic supplements, digestive system is responsible for catalyzing the food products consumed and absorption of vitamins and minerals from food and nutritional supplements, maintaining the digestive health is very important factor in optimizing nutrient intake and preventing from deficiency related bodily conditions. If the body remains deficient of required essential nutrients, immune function is likely to be compromised and there is higher probability of developing several health concerns. Medical practitioners and individuals realized the associated health benefits and thus recommending probiotic supplement to senior instead of high dosage of chemical based medicines.The market is segmented based on bacteria, formulation type, distribution channel, and region. On the basis of bacteria type segmentation includes Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Bifidobacterium and others. Based on formulation type, the market is segmented into capsules, tablets, liquid, and powder premixes. Among all the formulation type segment, capsule is expected to account for the highest market share, followed by powder premixes over the forecast period. The capsule segment is expected to register a significant CAGR of XX% during the forecast period in terms of value. The powder premixes is projected to register a CAGR of XX% over the forecast period in terms of value. The factors fuelling demand for probiotics supplements in elders is that, as their bodies cannot easily digest food and they also have lack of immune support. These factors are collectively supporting demand for probiotic supplements among the global elderly population.Senior Probiotics Supplements can be classified as pharmacy stores, specialty stores, hypermarket/supermarket, and e-commerce based on distribution channel segment. Among all the distribution channel type segments, specialty stores segment is expected to exhibit a significant CAGR over the forecast period. Specialty stores segment is expected to continue its dominance in terms of market share over the forecast period.The next section of the report highlights the senior probiotics supplements adoption, by region, and provides the market outlook for 20182025. The study investigates the market attractiveness regionally, as well as analyses the limit to which the trends are influencing the senior probiotics supplements market in each region. Main regions assessed in this report include North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ), Japan and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). The sections, by form, and by application, evaluate the present scenario and growth prospects of the regional senior probiotics supplements market for 20172027. Increasing focus of global key players for expansion in Western Europe and APEJ region is expected to increase the senior probiotics supplements market share in these regions. The North America market has been estimated to dominate the senior probiotics supplements market, accounting for maximum revenue share of the market by 2018 end. Collectively, North America and Western Europe markets are expected to account for over XX% revenue share of the global senior probiotics supplements market by 2018 end. Among the emerging markets, APEJ is estimated to exhibit a significant CAGR of XX%over the forecast period, followed by Western Europe market, due to the increasing elderly population.To understand key growth segments in terms of growth and adoption for senior probiotics supplements globally, Trends market research developed the senior probiotics supplements market Attractiveness Index. The resulting index should help providers identify real market opportunities.Request For Table of Contents : https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/requesttoc/3460 In the final section of the report on senior probiotics supplements, the dashboard view of the companies is provided to compare the current industrial scenario and their contribution in total senior probiotics supplements market. Moreover, it is primarily designed to provide clients with an objective and detailed comparative assessment of key providers specific to a market segment. Report audiences can gain segment-specific manufacturer insights to identify and evaluate key competitors based on the in-depth assessment of their capabilities and success in the senior probiotics supplements marketplace.Detailed profiles of senior probiotics supplements production companies are also included in the report to evaluate their long and shortterm strategies, key product offerings and recent developments in the senior probiotics supplements market. Key market competitors covered in the report include Church & Dwight Co. Inc., DR. WILLMAR SCHWABE GROUP, The Clorox Company, i-Health, Inc., Jarrow Formulas, NOVA Probiotics, Natural Factors Inc., Total Nutrition, Inc., PharmaCare Laboratories, BioGaia AB, and Lifeway Foods, Inc.Report Description: https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/senior-probiotics-supplements-market Pharmaceutical grade synthetic camphor is estimated to hold a significant share in the overall synthetic camphor market while the technical grade synthetic camphor is expected to expand at a relatively faster rate. The nearly US$ 322 million market for synthetic camphor is estimated to be valued at around US$ 570 million by the end of 2028. Synthetic Camphor Market PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 06:05:52 Press Information Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 634 Words Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Pharmaceutical grade synthetic camphor is estimated to hold a significant share in the overall synthetic camphor market while the technical grade synthetic camphor is expected to expand at a relatively faster rate. The nearly US$ 322 million market for synthetic camphor is estimated to be valued at around US$ 570 million by the end of 2028.According to the latest Future Market Insights (FMI) report, the volume sales of synthetic camphor are likely to exceed 36 thousand tons in 2019. Pharmaceutical industry has been a leading end-user of synthetic camphor, upheld by ongoing research activities on extending application scope of synthetic camphor in medicinal formulations.Pharma-grade synthetic camphor is extensively used in various topical analgesic products such as ointments, oils, gels, and chest-rubs. These pharma-grade synthetic camphor for topical pain management products are witnessing significant demand owing to consumer preference for self-medication, undergird by enhanced and easy accessibility of OTC products. According to the report, pharma-grade synthetic camphor is projected to account for more than 50% volume share in 2019 in the synthetic camphor market.Pharma-grade synthetic camphor sales are also significantly driven by growing demand for private-labelled camphorated medical products. For example, private labelled analgesic products have gained increased popularity in the US, as they are devoid of FDA approval, and witness strong promotion from retailer businesses.Request to Sample of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-8704 A key factor restricting adoption is regulations on the use of synthetic camphor in pharmaceutical products, such as the US FDAs classification of certain camphorated oil products would require patients to hold doctors prescription for consumption. Moreover, rising costs of raw materials such as turpentine oil is emerging as a key concern for manufacturers producing pharma-grade synthetic camphor.Gains Remain Strong from Synthetic Camphor Sales in Plasticizer ProductionSynthetic camphor continues to witness robust adoption in plasticizer production, which prevails as a critical component for paint and coating formulations. Additionally, demand for plasticizers in PVC and cellulose fiber production, has significantly underpinned sales of synthetic camphor. The study estimates sales of synthetic camphor in plasticizer production to surpass 13 thousand tons in 2019.Rise in the construction sector, along with increasing demand for renovation and maintenance of existing structures, continues to drive demand for plasticizers in flooring and wall covering applications. Additionally, remarkable demand for plasticizers in flexible Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) manufacturing, and to soften plastics used in wall covering and flooring, will remain a key sales determinant of synthetic camphor.Browse Full Report Now @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/synthetic-camphor-market East Asia to Hold Pole Position in Synthetic Camphor MarketAccording to the FMI report, East Asia is likely to remain lucrative in the synthetic camphor market. In East Asia, China is expected to account for the highest sales of synthetic camphor, surpassing 12 thousand tons in 2019. Owing to the presence of a large number of pharma-grade synthetic camphor manufacturers in China, the country is witnessing the growing demand for synthetic camphor.Growing overseas demand for synthetic camphor and significant growth in Chinese gum turpentine industry are the key factors influencing the market growth in the country. Additionally, with the development of Chinese gum turpentine derivatives such as synthetic camphor and synthetic borneol, overseas companies are eyeing use of these derivatives over gum turpentine.Majority of the pharma-grade synthetic camphor manufacturers are concentrated in China and India, exporting their products to Europe and the US. Due to the availability of raw materials and synthetic camphor on a large scale in China and India, global manufacturers of camphor and other related chemical are focusing on expanding their businesses in East Asia.Need more information about Report Methodology @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/askus/rep-gb-8704 The FMI report also tracks the synthetic camphor market for the forecast period 2018 to 2028. According to the report, volume sales of synthetic camphor is likely to register 3.0% CAGR through 2028. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 20:41:12 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 885 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / May 8, 2019 / Universal Copper Ltd. ("Universal Copper" or the "Company") (TSX Venture: UNV) (Frankfurt: 3TA1) is pleased to report the results of a Long Wave InfraRed (the "LWIR") survey over the Gachala Copper Project North Block. The seven mineral license applications comprising the North Block of the Gachala Copper project lie 60 km east of Bogota, Colombia:The LWIR best spectral match results for chalcocite strongly suggests the main Devonian-Permian / Cretaceous contact is anomalous along much of its + 40km strike length within the North Block applications, supporting the Companys belief this contact area is highly prospective for sedimentary copper deposits.Two of the license applications are contiguous to an area where historical exploration returned rock sample results ranging from 1.6 to 7.82 percent copper, further supporting the geological theory. Universal Copper cautions investors it has not yet verified any of the historical data."The North Block LWIR results are extremely exciting," stated Clive Massey, Chief Executive Officer. "The strike length of the chalcocite LWIR anomaly is impressive and we plan to mobilize geological field crews to investigate the geological merit of the anomaly for sedimentary copper." he continued.The seven North Block mineral license applications form part of the 53,538-hectare Gachala sedimentary copper project. The Gachala project lies within a northeast trending 250km-by-120km belt of Devonian-through-Cretaceous-age rocks in a geological setting conducive to hosting sedimentary copper deposits, believed to be analogous to the Zambian copper belt of Africa (source: C. Rodriguez and A.J. Warden (1993); "Overview of some Colombian gold deposits and their development potential"; Mineralium Deposita, Vol. 28, pages 47 to 57).Two of the seven mineral license applications comprising the 13,280-hectare North Block cover the western limb of the Anticlinal Montecristo in the area contiguous to and immediately north of the Sinai property where Rio Tinto Mining and Exploration Ltd. completed stream sediment and limited rock sampling in 1999. Rio Tinto took a total of 47 rock samples with 12 returning values in excess of 1 per cent copper, ranging from 1.6 per cent to 7.82 per cent (source: E.E. Vargas Ruiz, 1999; Exploracion Geoquimica Chivor Colombia Rio Tinto Mining and Exploration Ltd.). Another two of the license applications cover a 4-kilometre-long cobalt anomaly identified by the Colombian Geological Survey. This metal is of extreme interest to the Company as cobalt is one of the key accessory metals associated with sedimentary copper deposits. Universal Copper cautions investors that mineralization on the Sinai property is not necessarily indicative of similar mineralization on its licence applications.(To view the full-size image, please click here)About LWIRLWIR utilizes the long wave infrared bands on the Aster Satellite to penetrate through vegetation into the top 30 to 60 centimetres of the earths surface. While the long wave data is readily available, the algorithms to process the data are proprietary. The survey measures the individual mineral reflectance spectroscopy of the various constituent minerals against known standards to highlight anomalies within the area surveyed. The LWIR data was interpreted by New Generation LWIR Group of Vancouver, B.C.R. Tim Henneberry, P.Geo. (BC) and Universal Coppers geologist, is the Qualified Person who has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release.About GachalaUniversal has entered into an asset purchase agreement (see news release April 24, 2019) with Max Resource Corp. pursuant to which the Company will acquire a 100 % interest in the seven mineral licence applications comprising the Gachala Copper Project North block.About Universal CopperUniversal Copper Ltd. (UNV: TSX-V; FWB: 3TA1) is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties. Our objective is to build shareholder value through exploration and potential development or acquisition of existing projects with significant up-side.For additional information regarding the above noted property and other corporate information, please visit the Company's website at www.universalcopper.com ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS"Clive Massey"Clive H. MasseyPresident & CEOFor further information, please contact:Universal Copper Investor RelationsPhone: (604) 341-6870Email: info@ universalcopper.com Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking" statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although Tasca Resources Ltd. believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of Universal Copper Ltd. management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, Universal Copper Ltd. undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.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: Universal Copper Ltd. Growth of coastal and marine tourism globally to drive watertight doors market growth. Increasing exploration & production of natural gas to boost the market of marine vessels and subsequently, that of watertight doors. PR-Inside.com: 2019-05-08 05:14:15 Press Information Published by Abhishek Budholiya +1-347-918-3531 e-mail http://www.futuremarketinsights.com # 679 Words Abhishek Budholiya+1-347-918-3531 Watertight doors market witnessed sales of nearly 77,570 units in 2018 and is poised to grow at an impressive y-o-y of over 5.5% through 2019. Buoyancy of the global watertight doors market can be attributed to-Optimistic outlook of coastal and marine tourismSurging rate of ocean-based activitiesRising focus on ship repair and maintenanceFlourishing seaborne transportation and tradeRequest to Sample of Report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-8629 Federal initiatives to promote marine safety have worked in favor of high-scale production of marine components, such as watertight doors. For instance, the Government of Canada is introducing additional measures for enhancement of navigation safety and emergency response in the Canadian waters. The measures were presented in the form of an official announcement and acknowledged as a part of Canadas Oceans Protection Plan. On 14th June 2018, the U.S. Coast Guard announced two workforce initiatives in line with the Marine Safety Program. Particulars as such provide enough credence to the promising outlook of watertight doors market in 2019 and beyond.Investments in various forms of sustainable tourism, including coastal and marine tourism, is underway. This, in turn, has resulted in augmented production of marine vessels and associated components for safety, such as watertight doors. Rising vigor of ocean-based industries, such as offshore exploration and production, is supporting growth of offshore marine vessels and related components, including watertight doors, says FMI reportThe report opines cruise ship revitalization and overhauls to be a prominent trend with profound influences on sales of watertight doors. The increasing demand for upgrading older ships by including advanced amenities and components is complementing the growth of building and repair activities, favoring high-scale production and sales of watertight doors.As per the report, installation of hinged watertight doors is proliferating at an impressive rate, with global sales likely to cross 71,000 units in 2019. Robust watertight seal withstanding adverse conditions remains a key USP enhancing the visibility of hinged watertight doors over the sliding variants.Browse Full Report Now @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/watertight-doors-market According to the report, end-users remain biased toward hydraulic as a viable source over electric ones in the watertight doors landscape, with global sales estimated to exceed 71,348 units in 2019. Hydraulic watertight doors have been traditionally employed in commercial and military vessels alike, owing to their attribute of greater power delivery through smaller force. Additionally, relatively higher control accuracy in light of simple push buttons and levers employed, and economic benefits owing to fewer moving parts equipped, are key demand determinants of hydraulic watertight doors.Manufacturers Seek Approvals from Renowned Organizations to Boost CredibilityThe manufacturing framework of watertight doors witnesses major reformations in the light of evolving environmental concerns. Manufacturing companies are switching to sustainability-driven approaches, wherein production processes and value creation for the environment remain closely associated. Manufacturers of watertight doors are seeking approvals from prominent organizations providing marine classification, such as International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), to boost consumer confidence and get repeat salesLeading manufacturers of watertight doors are vying to offer distinguishable products to gain competitive advantages amid homogeneous competitors, which will help them strengthen their brand equity. Sensing the end-user shift toward high convenience and superior functionality, manufacturers of watertight doors remain focused on offering maintenance free and easy-to-install products for seamless operations on board.According to the report, the leading manufacturing companies are reinvigorating their technical know-how with high investments in research and development. This, in turn, is fostering their capabilities in terms of offering an ideal amalgamation of intelligent designs, enhanced longevity, and improved usability. Moreover, manufacturers are incorporating industry best drive systems in their products to offer reliable and safe products bolstering end-user convenience. As per FMI analysis, the industry giants remain involved in strategic collaborations with shipyards for seamless supply, which helps them boost their profit margins.Need more information about Report Methodology @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/askus/rep-gb-8629 The FMI report traces brimming opportunities in the watertight doors market for the forecast period of 2018-2028. As per the report, the watertight doors market is envisaged to grow at a volume CAGR of over 5.5% through 2028. The former Managing Director of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM Bank), Robert Orya, on Wednesday pushed back allegations of corruption and fraud levelled against his management by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Mr Orya described accusations of fraud in the disbursement of loans against him as wild, inappropriate, unacceptable and untrue. On Saturday, the CBN accused the past management of the export/import bank of plotting the removal from office of its deputy governor in charge of Economic Policy Directorate, Joseph Nnanna. Mr Nnanna is also the chairman of the Board of NEXIM, which commissioned forensic audit into the lending business of the bank. The CBN said the audit exposed different levels of procedural abuses fraught with high level of fraud in the disbursement of the loans by the former management (of the bank). The apex bank did not directly link Mr Orya to the allegations. But close followers of developments at NEXIM said the banks mention of the former management (of the bank) was a veiled reference to his tenure. Mr Orya was the MD of NEXIM from inception in August 2009 till February 2016. He was succeeded by the Executive Director, Business Development of the Bank, Bashir Wali, who held the office in an acting capacity until April 2017, when the incumbent Managing Director, Abubakar Bello, took over. A faceless call for change Last week, a civil society group, the Awareness for Good Governance Group (AGGG), called for the immediate removal of the CBN deputy governor over allegations of fraud at NEXIM. But the CBN in its reaction said the group, which it described as faceless, was fronting for the former management of the bank which is determined to get even with Mr Nnanna for ordering a probe of its activities. The CBN said the call by the group was a mere case of corruption fighting back. Findings from sources within the Bank and those close to the audit firm, Price Waterhouse and Coopers (PwC), which conducted the audit, indicated there were several violations of laid down procedures the CBN said. The CBN said such abuse of procedures increased the risk burden of NEXIM to about 91 per cent, with about 181 of the 191 loans granted, classified as non-performing. Non-performing loans are bad loans whose recovery is both doubtful and remote. According to the CBN, prior to Mr Nnannas assumption of office as chairman of the Board of NEXIM in March 2018, the NPLs of the bank stood at about N48.9 billion out of a total loan portfolio of N53 billion. The development, the CBN noted, negated the corporate governance pursuit of NEXIM to have a ceiling of 10 per cent maximum level for NPLs. Besides, the CBN said the level of fraud within the NEXIM system was perhaps why the CBN is yet to activate the N500 billion Export Stimulation Fund set up to promote non-oil exports in Nigeria. Orya fights back In his reaction, Mr Orya faulted the classification of the loans the bank gave out under his management and described as untrue allegations linking him to any corruption and fraud in the disbursement of the loans. I was disengaged from NEXIM on February 18, 2016, and handed over a transformed healthy bank with a high-quality loan book, with a non-performing loan of about 8.47 per cent, which was clearly below the threshold of 10 per cent, Mr Orya told PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday in an exclusive interview in Abuja. It is now three years and three months since I left NEXIM. Therefore, I consider accusations of fraud in the disbursement of loans as wild, inappropriate, unacceptable and untrue. The Board should rather appraise the leadership of my succeeding managements, he said. PREMIUM TIMES saw a copy of the handover note Mr Orya sent to the Supervising Minister of Finance and the CBN governor on February 2016 when he left office. Total NPLs below 10 per cent In the documents, total loans since 2015 classified as performing stood at about N42.74 billion. When loans classified as sub-standard (N1.914 billion), doubtful (N0.961 billion), and lost (N1.08 billion), are included, total loans by the bank as at February 2016 came to about N46.7 billion, or 8.47 per cent. Advertisements According to the former MD, on July 9, 2017, one and a half years after he left office, NEXIM management sent to him a comprehensive document on the status of the loans to indicate they were all performing. The document was sent following the setting up of an ad hoc committee by the House of Representatives to look at the books of all development finance institutions from 2009, including NEXIM, Bank of Agriculture, Bank of Industry and Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria. All MDs of these banks were asked to give details of their existing loans, including the legacy loans inherited, stating their current status. So, I dont know how, all of a sudden, since the current Chairman came into office, to now say I left 91 per cent non-performing loans, Mr Orya said. Mr Orya also denied the allegation by CBN that the debt situation left by his management stalled the activation of the N500 billion Export Stimulation Fund (ESF) set up to promote non-oil exports in the country. How is that possible? In fact, it was my management that initiated and approached the CBN in August 2015 to establish an N200billion ESF and enhance the rediscounting and refinancing facility (RRF) by N50billion, to boost non-oil exports following increasing volatility in the prices oil at the time, he said. He said the CBN increased the ESF to N500 billion, with CBN and NEXIM jointly working out the operating guidelines which culminated in the stakeholders conference held on January 19, 2016 to develop the draft guidelines. It was barely three weeks after that conference that I was disengaged from NEXIM. Therefore, I have no clue to CBNs claims that the delay in disbursing the Fund was as a result of abuses by my management. How? I dont know the capacity of my successors responsible for managing the loans, he said. Mr Orya criticised the N50 billion of the Fund already disbursed to NEXIM in 2018 on unclear basis. At the inception of NEXIM in August 2009, the total loan portfolio was about N14.6 billion. Of this amount, about 72 per cent was NPLs, out of which N10.03 billion, or 68.7 per cent was classified as completely lost, resulting in the sharp decline of the Banks income. Arbitrary charges effected on Automated Teller Machine, ATM, cards and other services rendered by banks have been identified as a possible factor that may hinder Nigerias financial inclusion drive. Random respondents who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES on Monday said other charges like those on withdrawal limits also discourage customers, especially low-income earners, from accessing financial services offered by banks. Some of the respondents, who claim to have lost interest in bank services, attributed it to those controversial charges. Lingering Controversy Over the years, issues of ATM charges, card maintenance fee and other sundry charges have been major causes of controversies between banks and their customers in Nigeria. In September 2017, a viral campaign was launched against Nigerian banks by customers who lamented how they were unduly charged for various fees that were largely described ridiculous and unfair. Across social media platforms, angry Nigerians poured out their minds and called on the authorities to address the perceived anomaly. By October, the outrage had prompted the Nigerian Senate to frown at the various charges and withdrawal limits placed on accounts by the banks. The Senate also urged banks to allow N40,000 maximum per withdrawal through an ATM and not N10,000. In another resolution, it urged the Central Bank of Nigeria to suspend the ATM Card Maintenance Charges being deducted from customers account pending the outcome of the investigation by the Committees. It also called on the Consumer Protection Council to take up the plight of ordinary Nigerians by looking into the various complaints of excess and unnecessary charges by Nigerian Banks. But despite the intervention of the Senate, many Nigerians still complain of arbitrary charges on their bank accounts. Complaints Charles Okosi, a trader, said the amount a particular new generation bank charged him for Card Maintenance prompted him to close his account after several years of running it. The charges are just too crazy, he said of the amount deducted from sundry services. It is not even worth it. Kazeem Oba, a student of the Lagos State Polytechnic, Lagos, explained that although students accounts are easy to open because they attract zero balance, some of the charges effected on those accounts could be disheartening. They allow you to open the account without any money; savings account. But when you carefully calculate the charges they deduct for card maintenance and all that, youd realise nothing is free, he said. Another student of The Polytechnic Ibadan, Lateef Ojuolape, said his colleagues had abandoned their accounts with a particular new generation bank because of arbitrary charges made on those accounts. He explained that because they are students, there is a limit to how they can cope with the arbitrary charges. CBNs Drive According to the Nigerian central bank, the global pursuit of financial inclusion as a vehicle for economic development had a positive effect in Nigeria as the exclusion rate reduced from 53.0 per cent in 2008 to 46.3 per cent in 2010. In 2012, the CBN launched the National Financial Inclusion Strategy to further reduce the exclusion rate to 20 per cent by 2020. Last June, the CBN said the countrys unbanked population currently stood at 37 per cent. The apex bank lamented that it had not done much to ensure that more Nigerians are included in the nations financial sector. But beyond mere involvement, analysts have opined that a major phase of the financial inclusion journey is for those captured to be active within the financial ecosystem. Access to financial services especially among rural dwellers, poor technology and other logistic concerns have been identified as possible factors that could hinder the nations drive. But with arbitrary charges by banks, respondents who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES said that customers might lose interest in services offered to ease payments and other related transactions. Advertisements There are some traders I know who would not open an account, said Mr Okosi, a trader. They handle cash. They ordinarily will not trust any bank with their money but even if they want to, will they go ahead with all these stories of arbitrary charges that we have in Nigeria? Another respondent, Kunle, noted that his bank has been deducting charges on ATM maintenance fees from his account even as he has never obtained an ATM from the said bank. He said he may be forced to close the account in the nearest future. Threat A finance and public policy expert, Jide Ojo, told PREMIUM TIMES that the development is capable of jeopardising the nations drive toward development and financial inclusion. It is quite unfortunate that Central Bank of Nigeria has not been protecting bank customers, Mr Ojo said. I say this because of the impunity of indiscriminate and criminal bank charges from ATM maintenance fees to card maintenance fees. Even the issue of removal of charges on ATM withdrawal has been grossly flouted by banks. Unlike before when bank customers can withdraw up to N40,000 at once, now you can only withdraw N10,000 at once It, therefore, does not come as a surprise that many bank customers are closing their bank accounts. This poses a serious threat to the financial inclusion plan of CBN. A Del Mar architects home-building project had nothing to do with the April 21 bluff collapse shutting down northbound Jimmy Durante Boulevard to traffic. Patrick Abbott, the geologist who told news media the project might have been a contributing factor, delivered a public apology for his remarks in an appearance Monday, May 6, before the Del Mar City Council. It was speculation, which I should not have done, Abbott said, adding that he confirmed his error through consultations with professionals familiar with the project. Therefore, I was wrong, he said. So based on the current evidence ... it means the new building there, the new house, is not responsible in any way, shape or form for the bluff failure. The apology came during the councils consideration of an emergency contract with Southland Paving to clear the road, reconstruct the slope, and install a barrier. Council members voted 5-0 to approve the contract and allocate $660,000 for the work. Del Mar Public Works Director Joe Bride told council members the northbound lane should be reopened by Memorial Day if not sooner, in advance of the San Diego County Fair. The fair will be held from May 31 to July 4 on the Del Mar Fairgrounds, whose main entrance and onsite parking lots are located on Jimmy Durante north of the collapse site. Following the incident, veteran architect Dean Meredith, who is building the house for himself and his wife, Monica, complained that Abbotts insinuation has generated an avalanche of negative publicity directed at them. Hes a good man everybody makes mistakes, Meredith told the council Monday. Unfortunately, his mistake has damaged my career as an architect. ... You work 50 some years building a career and, unfortunately, three minutes on (TV) could take this potentially away. Meredith stressed his blueprints had been thoroughly analyzed and received all required approvals from the city. Those studying the failure agree it stemmed from recent heavy rains combined with the inherent fragility of the steep slope, one of many in Del Mar vulnerable to collapse. Abbotts retraction received support from Les Reed, whose geotechnical engineering firm worked with the Merediths on the plan for their bluff-top home on Seaview Avenue. Following the collapse, Reed said, he determined the property, which is south of the slide area, could not have played a role, a conclusion supported by the citys staff. It was very clear that the failure that took place was not below ... the Meredith property, Reed said. It was to the north. ... There is no way that the Meredith property construction activity had anything to do with that failure. Mayor Dave Druker and Councilman Dwight Worden said they believe Dean Merediths outstanding reputation as an architect will overcome the fallout. While praising Abbott for being forthcoming about his mistake, council members expressed concern the city staff had not disseminated information concerning the bluff failure sooner to the public. In what seems like a parody of the clean-up of the heavily polluted Ogoni land, a PREMIUM TIMES investigation has revealed that almost all of the 16 companies awarded contracts for the first phase of the exercise by the Buhari administration have no experience whatsoever in the remediation of oil spills. Our investigation showed that the bulk of the successful companies were set up for businesses such as poultry farming, cars sales, textile dealership and fashion, palm-oil production, building design, and construction. Our investigation further revealed that Hydrocarbon Pollution Restoration Project (HYPREP), the agency in charge of the coordination of the cleanup, even flouted its own rules in the award of the remediation contracts, as many of the 16 companies fall short of the minimum prequalification requirements. Invitation of UNEP Following the invitation of the Nigerian government, in 2011, the United Nations Environmental Programme, UNEP carried out an assessment of the oil pollution in Ogoni and surrounding communities. The study found an unprecedented concentration of benzene, a carcinogen, in the outdoor air and drinking water in the area. In Ogale, a town in Eleme Local Government Area, for Instance, the UNEP study found the benzene contamination to be over 900 times above the World Health Organisations guideline. Similarly, water samples taken from seven wells in the area were adjudged to contain 1,000 times the recommended level of hydrocarbons in Nigerian drinking water, which is three micrograms per litre. UNEP stated that in many of the locations, there was contamination of groundwater that constituted a serious threat to human health and the viability and productivity of the eco-system. The report stated that the contamination of Ogoni and neighbouring communities was so severe that clearing the pollution will take up to 30 years. It recommended an initial capital injection of $1 billion to be paid by the Nigerian government and oil companies to fund the cleanup. Despite the severity of the contamination and the millions of lives at risk, the Nigerian government ignored the urgency in the UNEP report and dilly-dallied for five years until June 2016 when Mr Buhari, who was represented by his deputy, Yemi Osinbajo, flagged off the cleanup amidst fanfare at Bodo. But three years after the pomp of the flag off, the government has only taken baby steps towards the actual clean up. Remediation contracts In February, HYPREP announced that 16 companies were awarded the contract for the first phase of the remediation of the oil spill in Ogoni, after what it described as a competitive bidding process. This newspaper also learnt that the Ministry of Environment awarded contracts for project management, communication and public relations, and monitoring and evaluation processes to Associates Ltd and A.G. Partnership Ltd, Alliance Boots Limited, and Foxtrot O & G Company Nigeria Limited respectively. Weeks after a request by PREMIUM TIMES, HYPREP finally released the names of the 16 companies awarded the clean-up contracts and details of the remediation task they were expected to carry out. The 16 companies are: Louizont Ferretti Enterprises Ltd, Environmental Resources Managers Limited, Asonic Associates Limited, Mosvinny Nigeria Limited, Rey & Reina International Limited, Pacrim Engineering Ltd, Basic (Nigeria) Technology Limited, and Newpal Nigeria Ltd. Others are Amazing Environmental Solutions International Limited, Earthpro Unique Integrated Ltd, Nautilus (Nigeria) Engineering and Construction Limited, Tiptree Intertrade Nigeria Limited, Navante Oil & Gas Company Limited, Secura Investments Limited, Shamsa Resources and Services Ltd, and Odun Environmental Limited which changed from Global Environmental Management Limited. Nuka on motorcycle near burnt HYPREP bus So far, a total of N714.45 million, which is 15 per cent advance payment for the remediation task, has been released to the companies, Marvin Dekil, HYPREPs coordinator, told PREMIUM TIMES. He added that of the $1 billion estimated by UNEP as what the cleanup would cost, HYPREP has only received $180 million. Unqualified contractors An analysis of the companies registration details filed at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) revealed that only one of the companies has anything remotely to do with the remediation of oil spills. For instance, the registration details of Basic Nigeria Technology Limited, which was hired to do oil spill remediation job at the Oboolo site, revealed that it is in the business of oil palm plantation and refining. The company was set up to carry on business as manufacturers of palm oil products including palm oil milling, edible and vegetable oil refining including the ownership, sale and dealership of such refineries, details filed with the CAC stated. Mosvinny Nigeria Limited, which was allotted a site in Debon, is in the business of agricultural farming, mechanized farming, poultry farming, livestock breeders, animal husbandry and agricultural services in all its ramifications, its registration details showed. Louizont Ferretti Enterprises Ltd, which was contracted to do the cleanup at Buemene Korokoro, is in the business of supply services and maintenance of oil field equipment, dealers in all types of cars, fashion house, imports and exports, trade, general merchants, general goods, buying agents dealers, dealers in textiles materials and merchandise of different description whether consumable items or not and general maintenance of office equipment. Rey & Reina International Limited, which was allotted another section of Debon, was set up to sell and distribute general goods. Maiduguri-based Shamsa Resources and Services Ltd, which was set up to carry on the business of management training, finance and development consultancy services in all aspects of the development sector, to plan and conduct survey and study, project management, business analysis and change implementation, was also allotted a remediation job at Debon. Advertisements Shamsa, through a resolution, reached on March 16, 2018, a few days before the tender advertorial was placed in the dailies, removed as one of its directors, Fatima Maude Kyari. But it retained Dawud Abba Kyari and Ahmed Tijani Gubio and also appointed Mohammed Saleh Kamfut as a director. PREMIUM TIMES could not confirm if the Kyaris named in the companys board are relations of the Chief of Staff to President Buhari, Abba Kyari. Flouting Registration Rule Our investigations also revealed that HYPREP flouted its own prequalification requirements in the award of the contracts to some of the companies. One of the conditions set by HYPREP in its advertorial is that interested companies must have a minimum of five-year experience in hydrocarbon remediation. None of the companies seems to have met this condition. Pacrim Engineering Ltd, which is allocated a remediation site at Nkeleokan Alode, seems to be the only company set up for oil spill recovery and clean-up services. But it was only incorporated on June 25, 2018, more than two months after the announcement of public tender by HYPREP. Newpal Nigeria Limited, Rey & Reina International Limited, and Earthpro Unique Integrated Ltd were all established less than five years to the date of the advertisement. Newpal, which was incorporated on May 16, 2013, is two months short of the mandatory requirement. Earthpro, which focuses on the business of environmental consultancy services, was incorporated on March 3, 2016; while Rey & Reina International Limited, with focus on the sale and distribution of general goods, was incorporated on March 10, 2014. HYPREP keeps mum When PREMIUM TIMES commenced its investigation, it got some cooperation from HYPREP whose coordinator, Mr Dekil, even granted an interview to this reporter. However, after getting details of the beneficiary companies, Mr Dekil and HYPREP spokesperson became evasive. Efforts by PREMIUM TIMES to get HYPREP to speak on why it awarded the contracts for the clean-up to unqualified companies and why it flouted its own prequalification were unsuccessful Dekil HYPREPs head of media, Ekaete Umo, in a telephone interview with this reporter, promised to get a response from her boss, Mr Dekil. An email with our enquiries was also sent to Mr Dekil and copied to Mrs Umo. However, despite confirming that she got the email, more than two weeks after the email was sent, HYPREP has failed to comment. On April 26, in a terse response to a WhatsApp message, Mr Dekil wrote; Thank you for reaching out. The media team will contact you. As at the time of filing this report, no response has been received from HYPREP. Tension As Government Foot Drags Meanwhile, while the government foot drags, tension over the delay is boiling over across Ogoni land. The people are suspicious of strangers, and even journalists are not welcome with open arms. The people will no longer tolerate what they describe as a new form of imperialism where our oil continues to be explored illegally and our ugly stories rewritten and told by propagandists, a resident said. It took the intervention of two youth leaders Yamaabana Legborsi and Stanley Kpee before this reporter was allowed access to some of the highly polluted communities. Five days earlier, a mob of irate youth had set ablaze a luxurious bus conveying some officials of HYPREP at the market square in K-Dere, Gokana Local government. They would have burnt the occupants of the bus too but for the intervention of some elders. Everyone is angry because we are being treated as pawns on the chessboards of politicians, said Mr Legborsi, who is the president-general of the Ogoni Youth Federation (OYF). Legborsi standing by the clean up commemoration plaque at Chief Tekuru compound The extent of the distrust in Ogoni is so much that locals no longer view visitors as sympathisers but as people using them to gain global attention, Mr Kpee said. He added that a tour around the affected community would usually translate to the payment of good cash before it is granted. Mr Legborsi alleged that HYPREP is run like a secret cult. He said he had to file a case against the agency at a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt to compel HYPREP to make open details of its activities including funds received, companies hired, among others. We dont even want to hear anything about HYPREP or clean-up anymore, except they are ready to implement all the recommendations of UNEP as outlined in the report, said Mr Kpee, reiterating Mr Legborsis frustration. At the compound of the Michael Tekuru, the chairman of Gokana Council of Chiefs, stood a monument erected to commemorate the flag-off of the clean-up three years ago. The monument stands at the bank of Bodo-Bonny River. But instead of joy, as the plaque was may have been intended to evoke among Ogoni people, it is it now a reminder of the neglect the area continues to suffer. Gabriel Tekuru at the destroyed fish ponds on Bodo-Bonny River Gabriel, the son of Mr Tekuru, who took PREMIUM TIMES on a guided tour of the polluted area around the river was visibly angry as he narrated how four fish ponds were destroyed by spills in 2008 and 2009. The ponds were the main source of livelihood of more than 30 families. As you can see, is there any living thing here? Can you point to any? This is how much we have been ravaged. So, if anyone tells you clean-up is going on anywhere, you can now see it for yourself that nothing is going on, said Gabriel, an American returnee. Gabriel described recent activities in the area as a drama being acted by HYPREP for the purpose of winning vote during the recently concluded general elections. No Deceit Again At my age, they cant deceive me again. We have been deceived for far too long, Nubari Tabu, an elderly fisherman who is frustrated at the dwindling fish stock from the river, said. After spending six hours on the Bodo-Bonny river the previous Saturday, Mr Tadu could only manage to catch a handful of oil-coated tilapias, which he sold for N3,500, a price too steep for a riverine area. In its 2011 report, UNEP had recommended the provision of alternative source of water for Ogoni people, among other emergency recommendations. But several people who spoke to this reporter said people still drink from the same source of populated water as HYPREP has not met that recommendation. You can see that the land is caked everywhere, and where you have water, oil is floating everywhere. Farming or fishing is no longer achievable here. Yet, they are telling lies everywhere that everything is okay, said Harry Akara, the president of Ejamah Youth Council. Mr Akaras uncle, Daniel Amasi, showed this reporter the polluted well in his compound. He said on weekly basis, he spends more than N2,500 on water alone. We buy water from distant places because, as you can see, what we have as water in my well is pure oil. Oil spillage has destroyed us here, and we are just like walking corpses, Mr Amasi said. The Remediation is a Fraud Several Ogoni residents who spoke to PREMIUM TIMES said they have lost hope that the Buhari administration would carry out the remediation of the oil spill. Gbo Kabaari, a group of Ogoni elders, in a statement in January described the remediation as a fraud. They said none of the emergency recommendations in the UNEP report, such as comprehensive medical examination of everyone that has consumed the contaminated water or eaten its aquatic sources of food, has been provided. The group lamented that the Integrated Contaminated Soil Management Centre in Bori, a hydrocarbon remediation and research centre, has been overtaken by weeds after the celebrated groundbreaking ceremony in 2017 by a former minister of environment, Amina Mohammed. Ms Mohammed is now a deputy secretary-general of the United Nations. We consider it very sad that, as we speak, not only has nothing absolutely been done about any of these emergency measures but also the national and international visibility of the Ogoni issue has been fraudulently exploited to score cheap public relations benefits at every opportunity, the statement claimed. Tamana in his compound The European Coordinator of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), Lazarus Tamana, blamed Mr Dekil, an Ogoni indigene, for the delay in the take-off of the clean-up. He said the HYPREP coordinator has betrayed the trust the people had in him. He has turned against the people, telling lies all over the place, Mr Tamana told PREMIUM TIMES. Remediation has started However, Mr Dekil, in an earlier interview before he stalled on further comments, told PREMIUM TIMES that despite concerns and frustration of the people, the remediation of the pollution has started and is on course. He said the Buhari administration was committed to the clean-up. Between April 2017 when we came on board and now, we have done extensive work including the scoping of the contaminated environment, sensitisation of the communities and procurement activities, he said. We have addressed some of the emergency measures by carrying out medical outreach in two phases. We have attended to about 20,000 patients, carried out about 400 surgeries, and have trained about 50 scientists in two phases as well. We started with 15 scientists who carried out remediation demonstration across the four local government areas, and we trained an additional 35 scientists in collaboration with NDDC. But the most important thing at this point now is that through a very transparent and open process, we have introduced 16 companies to 16 sites across the four local governments, and we have actually commenced the remediation work. We have also commenced the livelihood project with 15 trainees at the IITA who would be there for three months. They are being trained in agricultural skills. So, we have commenced remediation works; we have done livelihood projects, we have done medical outreach and we have done training of youths including the scientists working on this project. To further show the commitment, Mr Dekil said HYPREP has invited UNEP once again to be part of the clean-up process. He said HYPREP was committed to implementing the UNEP report but the time of the implementation has informed the changes in the strategies. According to him, when the report was submitted in 2011, UNEP would not have envisaged that its implementation would only start eight years after. When the report was written, it had projected that the implementation would be immediate. But, unfortunately, that did not happen. Now, eight years after, we are just commencing the process. So, I doubt if the strategies that were to be deployed eight years ago would still be the same today, he explained. The reason is that what constituted emergencies then might still constitute emergencies now and might not. Therefore, in implementing these remediations, we have to review that, and the remediation of those lands which is the core of those recommendations would have to be done immediately. He, however, added that UNEP did not visit the Ogoni for people to have water but for comprehensive remediation of the polluted soil. On the issue of major polluted sites, Mr Dekil said HYPREP was still working out the possibility of engaging international oil spill clean-up companies, and that the process would take some time. That is why we have started with the small ones, he said Although his candidacy was nullified by the appeal court, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the last Zamfara State election, Mukhtar Idris, attended the recently concluded induction for new and returning governors-elect. Based on the appeal court ruling, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also refused to issue a certificate of return to Mr Idris; meaning he is not recognised as a governor-elect. Mr Idris and the APC have appealed the matter at the Supreme Court which is yet to rule on the matter. Mr Idris was among the participants at the three-day event organised by the Nigerians Governors Forum, (NGF) at the Aso Presidential Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja. The event had in attendance Senate President Bukola Saraki and many state governors. Also at the event were two former American governors, Bill Richardson of New Mexico and Martin OMalley of Maryland State. Zamfara Controversy Controversies erupted when the outgoing Zamfara governor and the chairman of the governors forum, Abdulaziz Yari, handpicked his former commissioner for finance, Mr Idris, to succeed him as the next governor. Also, the mode of governorship primary elections selected by Mr Yari divided the party in the state. Mr Yari wanted the APC to conduct an indirect election, where party officials would elect delegates to vote. But the party insisted on conducting a direct primary wherein all party members would vote. Trouble deepened when the national headquarters of the APC issued a statement, three days to the deadline for primaries, dissolving the Zamfara State executive and banning Mr Yari from participating in the conduct of primaries because of his interference. After weeks of political turmoil, INEC eventually banned the party from submitting the names of candidates because it said the party failed to meet the deadline given by the commission. However, the Court of Appeal in Abuja, on February 21, cleared Mr Idris as a candidate for the elections a few days before the commencement of the 2019 general election. INEC later declared Mr Idris the winner of the election in Zamfara after he polled 534,541 to defeat Bello Mutawalle of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored 189,452. However, after the election, aggrieved APC members continued their case in court and the Court of Appeal eventually ruled that the APC had no candidate for all the elections held in Zamfara; thus declaring Mr Idriss election null and void. Official reaction When contacted, INEC restated its stance that Mr Idris would not be issued a certificate of return. An INEC spokesperson, Festus Okoye, in response to PREMIUM TIMES enquiry said the commission has not issued any certificate of return to Mr Idris. He also said the matter is pending before the Supreme Court. The Commission issued Certificates of Return to those elected to the Senate and House of Representatives in Zamfara State, he explained. The Commission has not issued any to those elected to the House of Assembly and to the office of the Governor. The matter relating to the primary election of the party is pending before the Supreme Court. The Commission will abide by the decision of the Supreme Court, Mr Okoye said. Although Mr Idris may have attended the event with the hope that the Supreme Court would rule in his favour, officials declined to explain his invitation. When PREMIUM TIMES contacted the spokesperson, the NGF, Abdulrazak Barkindo, in a telephone interview, he declined to comment. Spokesperson of the governor of Zamfara state, Ibrahim Dosara, also told PREMIUM TIMES, he could not speak for Mr Idris. Efforts to contact the Zamfara APC spokesperson, Shehu Ahmed, were unsuccessful. He did not respond to calls and text messages sent to his known telephone number. Advertisements The Nigerian government has said it followed due process in the award of contracts for the remediation of polluted sites in Ogoniland. In two separate responses to PREMIUM TIMES report on how the Buhari administration awarded Ogoni cleanup contracts to unqualified firms, both the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) said that due process was followed in awarding the said contracts. In the statements, signed on behalf of the ministry by the Director of Press, Saghir el Mohammed, and another sent by HYPREP Media Director, Ekaete Umo, the duo said the choice of the companies complied with the Federal Government Executive Order 5. They said the order is aimed at growing the local capacity of Nigerian companies by encouraging them to partner remediation technical companies with proven track records. Contradictions But PREMIUM TIMES has identified contradictions in submissions made by both outfits, especially on the five-year experience required of the interested companies. HYPREP statement reads in part; It is important also to note that in our publication in both local and international media (The Economist March 31st April 6th; The Guardian, Daily Trust, Ogoni Star and The Tide of March 30, 2018) HYPREP never requested interested companies to have 5 years remediation experience before applying. Rather, Companies were requested to provide details of experience providing environmental remediation services of hydrocarbon impacted soil/groundwater comparable in scope and complexity to the assignment of interest in the last five (5) years. This is to ensure that the companies are still in business with current remediation technologies and not companies that have been out of remediation business for the past 10 to 20 years. Therefore, local companies were encouraged to participate through evidence of partnership/joint venture agreement with local/international companies with requisite experience in remediation. This is aimed at building the capacity of the local companies in line with the aforementioned Presidential Executive Order for the promotion of Nigerian content. As part of its defence, the Ministry said: Pacrim Engineering Ltd is duly accredited with NOSDRA, Federal Ministry of Environment and DPR for oil spill clean-up and remediation. It is in technical partnership with Pacrim International, who (which) has over ten years-experience in remediation worldwide and Delta Remediation, Canada, making them compliant of the conditions set by HYPREP that a company must have a minimum of 5 years-experience in remediation. Unaddressed Concerns Meanwhile, both HYPREP and the Ministry failed to respond to the issue raised on how Pacrim Engineering Ltd, which was incorporated two months after the bidding process had closed, was able to make the list of successful companies. The duo also failed to address the issues of objects of about 11 of the 16 companies, as filed in their documents with the Corporate Affairs Commission, which run contrary to the contracts awarded to them. According to a lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who craved anonymity, running businesses contrary to objects filed during incorporation is a punishable offence. The lawyer, who quoted Sections 38 and 39 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, noted that the objects clause put in the incorporation file is aimed at guiding against abuse. The lawyer said; Objects clause is a provision in a companys constitution stating the purpose and range of activities for which the company is carried on A clause is only relevant in action against a director for breach of duty under the Companys Act for failure to observe the limits of their constitutional provisions. Especially section 39 which talks about the effect of and sanction for ultra vires Under Nigerian Law, the sanction (has to be by order of the court) is to prohibit the company from further engaging in acts that are ultra vires the companys objects. Damages may be sought for wrongs the claimant may have suffered owing to the conduct of the company. However, the government has claimed the companies with varying objects have partnered other international firms with required experiences in the remediation fields. For instance, Rey & Reina International Limited, which was incorporated less than five years to the period of the award of contract, has as its objects; To carry on the business of trading, marketing, sales and distribution of general goods, marketing, sales and distribution of general goods be they manufactured or not, commission agents, manufacturers representatives, importers, exporters, general suppliers, general contractors, general merchandise, general services etc. But in its response, the Ministry said: Rey & Reina International Limited, which met all mandatory requirements specified in the advertisement in line with Procurement Act of 2007 and is duly accredited with NOSDRA, Federal Ministry of Environment and DPR for oil spill clean-up and remediation. It is in technical partnership with EMCO Oilfield Services Ltd who has a reputable experience in remediation in Nigeria for over ten years. Meanwhile, the governments claim has been faulted by the Principal Partner of Olalekan Oladapo and Company, Olalekan Oladapo, who said the law does not recognise such partnerships except the partners are those offered the contracts. He said; The reason such partnerships are not recognised is that, if the companies default, the one awarded the contracts alone can be tried, and not the partners. Suspected gunmen on Tuesday stormed Balle community in Gudu Local Government Area of Sokoto State and shot dead its tradition ruler, Aliyu Ibrahim, a source has said. The witness told PREMIUM TIMES the gunmen stormed the community on motorcycles shooting sporadically in the air. He said residents ran into hiding to avoid being hit by stray bullets. He added that the gunmen then went straight to Balle police station where they burned down patrol vehicles and the building before moving to the palace of the district head. They gunned him down in cold blood, said the source, who requested not to be named for security reasons. The Nigerian Army had earlier announced a ban on the use of motorcycles in seven northern states including Sokoto to curb the rising spate of violence. Balle is the headquarters of Gudu Local Government Area, and an ancient community. In 1804, it was the capital of Sokoto caliphate. It shares boundary with the Republic of Niger. How It Happened The gunmen, upon arrival to the emirs palace, found the compound gate was locked. They, however, jumped through the fence while others were stationed outside. After killing the district head, they rode their motorcycles and fled, the witness said. He added that it is not clear whether they killed security personnel at the police station. He said no civilian was reported killed during the attack, as the gunmen were allegedly from Niger Republic, and were on a plan revenge attack targeting only the district head. The source said many residents attributed the killing to vengeance as the traditional leader was the one who allegedly reported the activities of the bandits to security agencies. The police in Sokoto are yet to speak on the incident. The spokesperson, Muhammad Sadiq, did not pick or return calls to his phone Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. A Twitter user, @Nasirmagori, also lamented the killing of the traditional ruler. With deepest sorrow, i announce the death of the district head of Balle, Gudu LG sokoto who was slaughtered by unknown gunmen at his residence in Balle in an attack yesterday. May his soul rest in peace The secuirity situation is worse @MBuhari @BashirAhmaad#ServiceChiefsMustGo pic.twitter.com/QubFpaQLWo MAGOREE (@Nasirmagori) May 8, 2019 Insecurity Across Nigeria The Sokoto attack comes a day after the Emir of Katsina, Abdulmumini Usman, lamented the insecurity in the state. Every day I receive reports of kidnapping and killings from the district and village heads, the emir said. Nigerians have criticised President Muhammadu Buhari for not doing enough to tackle the security situation across the country. At least four persons were killed on Tuesday evening in Molai and Bukarti villages after gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram attacked the outskirts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, residents said. PREMIUM TIMES Tuesday reported an attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, who reportedly embedded themselves in a convoy of travellers being escorted by armed soldiers to Maiduguri from Damboa town. Upon approaching the outskirts of Maiduguri, the insurgents attacked, using a car bomb and several armed men. They inflicted damages on the convoy and injured some soldiers escorting the travellers. The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7, Division of the Nigeria Army, Ibrahim Biu, confirmed the incident in a report by NAN but insisted that the attack was repelled and Maiduguri was not under attack. But, from PREMIUM TIMES findings from residents in Molai, the military commander was not accurate with details of what actually transpired. Residents speak Bulama Aji, a resident of Molai, confirmed that the attack did not only inflict grave casualty on civilians but also led to the loss of property for both the residents of Molai and the military. They attacked and destroyed NEPA (power transmission station) and took away the military gun truck stationed there. They killed two persons in Maibukarti village, not far away from Molai. And then, they killed two people in Molai, one of them was a mad man. They burnt the entire Molai market and many houses were also torched before the insurgents left, he said. Another source in Molai, who did not want to be named, said when the attack started, even the soldiers took to their heels, thats why the insurgents attacked and easily took away the gun truck stationed at NEPA. What Army Said In the report published by NAN, the GOC, Mr Biu, said: Troops neutralised a number of the insurgents and repelled the attack. The insurgents came and fired some shots but troops engaged and repelled them. Some disgruntled elements are peddling misleading information that Maiduguri is under attack. How can Maiduguri be under attack when we already repelled them? They attempted to infiltrate Moloi village in the outskirts of Maiduguri but they were immediately countered. As I speak to you now, I am standing in Molai village. Troops are exploiting the area in hot pursuit of the fleeing insurgents, he said. Meanwhile, villagers of Molai and Bukarti, who are still concerned about how the insurgents managed to join a military-escorted convoy in such large numbers without being spotted, said they were yet to spot the corpse of a Boko Haram member, which the soldiers claimed they have neutralised. The Boko Haram insurgency, now in its tenth year, has claimed thousands of lives and crippled economic activities in more than a dozen local government areas of Borno State. The anti-graft agency, EFCC, has released the statement below explaining its decision to investigate Senate President Bukola Saraki. Mr Saraki had in a statement on Tuesday accused the EFCC of a witch-hunt for probing his tenure as governor of Kwara State. Mr Saraki, a leader of the main opposition party, PDP, left office as Kwara governor in 2011. In its reply on Wednesday, the EFCC said its investigation of Mr Saraki is driven by overarching public interest and due process of the law. Read the full EFCC statement below. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has taken note of the reactions of the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki to the Commissions inquiries regarding his earnings as Kwara State governor as well as on the quality of his financial stewardship in the Senate. While it is his prerogative to ventilate his views on the matter as he deems fit, the Commission takes strong exception at the desperate attempt to cast a slur on its investigative activities by portraying Saraki as a victim of persecution. Furthermore, the Agency finds the attempt by the Senate President to tie our inquest to his International Human Rights Commission, IHRC appointment and his approaching life out of power as misleading, knowing too well that the background to our current inquiries reaches several years back. EFCC operative used to illustrate the story For the avoidance of doubt, the EFCC is obligated by law to enthrone probity and accountability in the governance space and has supremely pursued this duty without ill-will or malice against anyone. It is in the interest of the public, and for Sarakis personal good, that he is not only above board, but be seen at all times to be so. Indeed, all the instances in which the EFCC have had cause to sleuth into his financial activities either as a former governor or President of the Senate were driven by overarching public interest and due process of the law. Against the background of the posse of indicting petitions and other evidence available to the EFCC, even Saraki will agree with the Commission that putting him through a legitimate forensic inquiry is the legitimate route to establish his integrity as a public servant. The distinguished Senate President has no need to fret so long as he has no skeletons in his cupboard. The Commission has a sacred mandate to rid the country of corruption and corrupt elements and restates its unflinching resolve to achieve these, no matter whose ox is gored. The Kano State House of Assembly has removed 36 local government areas from the Kano Emirate to create four new emirates. The proposed new emirates are Rano, Gaya, Karaye and Bichi. The Kano State Governor, Umar Ganduje, has indicated he would sign the bill into law. This development followed an amendment by the lawmakers of the Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Law of the state. On Monday, one Ibrahim Salisuhad submitted a petition to the state assembly seeking the decentralisation of the Kano Emirate Council. The petitioner demanded the upgrade of the traditional rulers of Karaye, Bichi, Rano and Gaya to the status of first class emirs. The assembly set up a committee to look into the petition and come up with a report. While reading the joint committees report before the floor of the house on Tuesday, the Majority Leader, Baffa Danagundi, said the report also recommended the review of the law. He said the decision followed wide consultation with stakeholders. Mr Danagundi said the response received clearly showed that there was a need to upgrade the traditional rulers. After that, the lawmakers unanimously passed the bill on Wednesday. A copy of the new law obtained by PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday stated that the local government councils that remained under Kano Emirate are Kano Municipal, Dala, Nassarawa, Gwale, Tarauni, Fagge, Kumbotso and Ungoggo. A former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Muhammad Sanusi, as the Emir of Kano is the head of the Emirate. The proposed Rano Emirate covers 10 local government councils. These are Rano, Bunkure, Kibiya, Takai, Sumaila, Kura, Doguwa, Tudunwada, Kiru and Bebeji. The proposed Gaya Emirate has nine local government councils consisting of Gaya, Ajingi, Albasu, Wudil, Garko, Warawa, Dawakinkudu, Gabasawa and Gezawa. The proposed Karaye Emirate has eight local government councils. These are Karaye, Rogo, Gwarzo, Kabo, Rimingado, Shanonon, Madobi and Garunmalam. Bichi Emirate has nine local government areas. They are Bichi, Bagwai, Tsanyawa, Shanono, Kunchi, Dambatta, Makoda, Dawakintofa and Tofa. The amendment bill received a swift passage at the Assembly after scaling the third reading at Wednesdays plenary presided by the Speaker, Kabiru Rurum. Earlier in the day, Governor Ganduje had announced that he would sign the bill when passed by the state assembly. The governor said this in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Abba Anwar. He said: We heard about a Bill sent to the State House of Assembly, requesting them to make a law for the creation of four more Emirs in Kano. We believe those that did this did it with good intention and they want the development of the state. According to him, That is the popular wish of our people. The people of Kano state. This will also go a long way in hastening growth and development for the state. Mr Ganduje said there had been a clamour for many years among citizens in the state for new emirates. But now we are happy to see that the idea would come into fruition. Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje [PhotoCredit: Punch Newspapers] He said all sectors would benefit from the changes. Advertisements It will also lead to more concentration on our health, education and other equally important sectors of the society. That is why I said there will be no waste of time in signing the Bill into Law. But observers said the real motive of the governor is to reduce the influence of the Emir of Kano, Mr Sanusi. Mr Sanusi reportedly opposed the re-election of Mr Ganduje. The governor scraped through reelection after a disputed supplementary election. He had lost heavily in Kano Municipal, the seat of the Emir. Kano is one of only two states in Nigeria with one emirate or traditional council. Sokoto, the seat of the Sultan of Sokoto, is the other state with a similar arrangement. The emirates, as with the other traditional councils, have roles in the administration of local governments and are allocated five per cent of the revenues of the local councils. By Wednesdays amendment, Kano Emirate will now cover eight local government areas. Kano State has the highest number of LGAs in Nigeria with 44. Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State on Wednesday assented to a bill approving the creation of four additional emirates in the state, effectively reducing the influence of the Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi. With the new Emirates, the governor said: the traditional institution will now go closer to the people in all nooks and crannies of the state. We are about to make history today and in the Holy Month of Ramadhan. The newly created emirate councils are Gaya, Rano, Karaye, and Bichi. Kano now has five independent emirate councils, including the Kano Emirate Council headed by the former Central Bank of Nigeria governor, Mr Sanusi. Backstory PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported how the Kano State House of Assembly removed 36 local government areas from the Kano Emirate to create the four new Emirates. The lawmakers move followed an amendment of the Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Law of the state. On Monday, one Ibrahim Salisuhad submitted a petition to the state assembly seeking the decentralisation of the Kano Emirate Council. The petitioner demanded the upgrade of the traditional rulers of Karaye, Bichi, Rano, and Gaya to the status of first class emirs. The assembly set up a committee to look into the petition and come up with a report. While reading the joint committees report before the floor of the house on Tuesday, the Majority Leader, Baffa Danagundi, said the report also recommended the review of the law. He said the decision followed wide consultation with stakeholders. Mr Danagundi said the response received showed that there was a need to upgrade the traditional rulers. The amendment bill received a swift passage at the Assembly after scaling the third reading at Wednesdays plenary presided by the Speaker, Kabiru Rurum. Earlier in the day, Governor Ganduje had announced that he would sign the bill when passed by the state assembly. Excited governor The governor explained that with the expansion of the emirate councils and importance attached to the institution alongside preserving the cultural heritage, there was a need to bring forth the all-important institution to serve people better. According to him, all the requirements needed for the immediate take-off of the new councils would be done with dispatch. Kingmakers will be known very soon. So also all other process and procedures will be completed for appointing respective Emirs, issuing them with appointment letters up to the Coronation stage, an elated Mr Ganduje said. He thanked the state assembly for the historic work done. Mr Ganduje also acknowledged the role traditional institutions play in the security of the larger society. In the areas of education, health, environment, (the) traditional institution is indeed a partner in progress. With this development, therefore, all hands will be on deck to take Kano to the next level. Earlier, in his remarks, during the official presentation of the bill to the governor, the speaker said Kano would now have sustained development in all aspects of its life. We are now very grateful that the hitherto existing emirate councils are now fully back. This will indeed be another plus to the administration of His Excellency, the governor and our assembly for fulfilling the aspirations of our people, he said. Mr Rurum said when the bill was presented to the assembly, many people were jubilating and that they received many encomiums from the citizens. Advertisements Meanwhile, seven other bills were assented to by governor Ganduje. They include Kano State Public Health Bill of 2019; Kano State Water and Sanitation Sector Reform Bill of 2019; Kano State Pension Rights for Speaker and Deputy Speaker Bill of 2019 and Kano State College of Health, Science and Technology, among others. Political Undertone? The new law establishing the emirates tagged Emirs Appointment and Deposition Amendment bill 2019 was passed expeditiously (within two days) by the lawmakers raising concerns about a possible political undertone. Observers said the real motive of the governor is to reduce the tremendous influence of the Emir of Kano. Mr Sanusi reportedly opposed the re-election of Mr Ganduje. The governor scraped through reelection after a disputed supplementary election. He lost heavily in Kano Municipal, the seat of the Emir. Kano is one of only two states in Nigeria with one emirate or traditional council. Sokoto, the seat of the Sultan of Sokoto, is the other state with a similar arrangement. The Emirates, as with the other traditional councils, have roles in the administration of local governments and are allocated five per cent of the revenues of the local councils. With Wednesdays amendment, Kano Emirate will now cover about eight local government areas. Kano State has the highest number of LGAs in Nigeria with 44. Hours after a federal court in Lagos dismissed the Nigerian governments multi-million dollar debt recovery suits against Agip Oil and Brasoil, the government has filed a notice of appeal against the judgment. Mojisola Olatoregun, a judge of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court on Wednesday dismissed the Nigerian governments suit against the oil companies citing insufficient evidence from the plaintiff. The government had sued Agip Oil, owned by Italian oil giant, Eni, in 2016 for allegedly under-declaring the volume of crude oil it shipped out of the country between January 2011 and December 2014. The government is seeking $55 million as the shortfall in the amount of excess crude oil lifted out of Nigeria, onboard the vessel MT Cosmos. A similar suit was filed against Brasoil Services Company Nigeria Ltd, owned by the Brazilian oil company, Petrobras. In a notice of the appeal to the Court of Appeal in Lagos seen by PREMIUM TIMES and dated May 8, the Nigerian government urged the appellate court to set aside the decision of the lower court dismissing its claims against the oil companies. Case against Agip The government appealed the federal high courts decision in favour of Agip Oil on two grounds. In her judgment on Wednesday, Mrs Olatoregun held that although it was possible that MT Cosmos lifted additional 500,000 barrels of crude oil, the plaintiff did not provide evidence to prove its case. The appellant argued against the decision, saying that Agip Oil failed to render a proper account of its crude shipment resulting in huge financial losses to the government. The court below failed to take into consideration the fact that the defendant had intentionally neglected to properly account for all crude oil leaving the country which as a result caused financial loss as there was an under-declaration of the value of crude oil lifted and exported which led to significant decline in crude oil revenue generated by the plaintiff. The government further argued that the lower court failed to take into cognisance the evidence of Agip Oils sole witness relating to discrepancies in crude shipment reviewed in the Pre-Shipment Inspection Report. According to the appellant, the lower court ignored the fact that under Nigerian laws, Agip Oil is required to make full declaration of its crude shipments; the crude oil shipments by the company to Philadelphia, USA, and Amsterdam, the Netherlands, show a cumulative non-declaration of 500,000 barrels of crude oil valued at $55 million. The appellant also stated that the exhibits tendered by the company during the court hearing showed it also failed to declare the crude oil it shipped in its bill of lading. Case against Brasoil There are three grounds of appeal by the Nigerian government against the judgment in favour of Brasoil. While dismissing the suit against the oil company, the judge held that the vessel, Overseas Rebecca, did not lift the 499,000 barrels of crude oil out of the country as claimed by the Nigerian government and, therefore, has no responsibility to declare it. The appellant argued that the lower court erroneously relied on exhibits tendered before it to hold that another vessel, MT Nikator, lightered some of its crude oil into Overseas Rebecca. This, it said, was absurd because the Port of Houston, where the ship berthed, was large enough to accommodate the laden MT Nikator. Lightering is the process of transferring cargo between vessels of different sizes, usually between a barge and a bulker or oil tanker. Lightering is undertaken to reduce a vessels draft in order to enter port facilities which cannot accept very large ocean-going vessels. The court below failed to take into cognisance that PW1 (the witness) evidence shows that the MT Nikator has a draught that can be accommodated at the Port of Houston and discharged of its cargo without lightering. The appellant also argued that the lower court ignored its witness who maintained that any shipment not contained in the PIR creates a discrepancy and the records in the U. S. showed that Overseas Rebecca discharged shipment from Nigeria which was not declared in the PIR. It further argued that the court did not take into cognisance the fact that the oil companys crude oil shipments using Overseas Rebecca to the Port of Houston, Texas, show a cumulative non-declaration of 499,000 barrels of crude oil valued at $54.89 million. According to the Nigerian government, the judge ignored the fact that seven volumes of the comprehensive PIR of crude oil from Nigeria between 2011 and 2014, which contains the master list of all shipments, unequivocally established that the 499,000 barrels of Akpo crude were not declared to the appellant. The government maintained that it provided evidence through an analysis of crude oil imports into the U.S. obtained from the United States Border Customs that there was, indeed, a shipment to Texas using Overseas Rebecca. The House of Representatives on Tuesday reworked the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2018 rejected by President Muhammadu Buhari. The president had in December 2018 declined assent to the bill for the third time. In his last letter to both chambers of the National Assembly, Mr Buhari said passing a new bill with elections close by could create some uncertainty about the legislation to govern the process. He also highlighted some parts of the bill that he said need legislative action. Prior to that period, the president had declined assent to the bill in previous times, citing drafting issues. Mr Buhari had first in March withheld assent to the bill with reasons that the proposed law would usurp the constitutional powers of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to decide on election matters, including fixing dates and election order. However, after a second communication from the National Assembly, the president again in September declined to assent to the bill. The amendments made by the House were sequel to a motion moved by Edward Pwajok last Tuesday. He had urged his colleagues to revisit the amendment bill in the interest of Nigeria and to consider looking at the clauses the president pointed out in the bill that required reconsideration. Some of the areas the president noted in the amendment bill were Section 5, amending section 18 of the Principal Act, which he said should indicate the subsection to which the substitution of the figure 30 for the figure 60 is to be effected. B. Section 11, amending Section 36 should indicate the subsection in which the provision is to be introduced. C. Section 24, which amends Section 85(1) should be redrafted in full as the introduction of the electing to the sentence may be interpreted to mean that the political parties may give 21 days notice of the intention to merge, as opposed to the 90 days provided in Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act, which provides the provision for merger of political parties. D. The definition of the term Ward Collection Officer should be revised to reflect a more descriptive definition than the capitalized and undefined term Registration Area Collation Officer. The lawmakers thereafter, resolved into Committee of the Whole to make the amendments. Three News Clauses While considering the report, the lawmakers also adopted three new clauses, in subsection 1 of Section 18 of the Principal Act. This amendment seeks that any electoral officer apprehended for issuing a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) to any voter less than 30 days before the election will be liable to five years imprisonment or a fine of N5 million or both. The new subsection (2) proposes: If the Electoral Officer or any other officer is satisfied as to the circumstances of the loss, destruction, defacement or damage of the VotersCard, he shall issue to the voter a replacement of Permanent Voter Card. New subsection (3) states: No person shall issue a replacement of a permanent voters card to any voter on polling day or less than thirty (30) days before polling day. The new subsection (4) says: Any person who contravenes subsection (3) of this section commits an offence and is liable on conviction to 5 years imprisonment or a fine of N5, 000,000.00 or both. Section 36(1) of the Principal Act was also amended by (3) inserting after the word days and proviso. Many Nigerians, including politicians, have urged the president to assent to the bill to enhance Nigerias electoral process which has been beleaguered by irregularities in recent years. Two students at Canyon Crest Academy are among 161 high school seniors picked for this years class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, the U.S. Department of Education announced Tuesday, May 7. The students, Anne Liu, 17, and Michael Chen, 18, both of Carmel Valley, were among 10 California students named for one of the nations highest honors for high school students. They were the only two San Diego County students to receive the honor, which recognizes accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education fields. Students may not apply for the Presidential Scholars program, and their schools cannot nominate them. Application is by invitation only. Canyon Crest Academy Principal Brett Killeen told The San Diego Union-Tribune during an interview Tuesday, May 7, that the announcement of the students recognition was a proud moment for the school. These are kids who are already doing great things and thinking beyond themselves, Killeen said. Its a pat on the back they deserve. About 3.6 million students are expected to graduate from high school this year nationwide, and more than 5,200 candidates qualified to be considered for the award, based on SAT and ACT scores or nominations made by the Chief State School Officers in each state or by the programs partner organizations, the Department of Education said Tuesday. A young man and young woman are selected from each state, and from Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and from U.S. families living abroad. Another 15 students are chosen at-large, 20 are selected as scholars in the arts, and 20 are selected as career and technical education scholars. Liu, an accomplished pianist, was named a scholar of the arts, and Chen was recognized for academic achievement, according to the announcement. Both students are already bright stars. Liu, who has been playing piano since she was 4, has won several prestigious awards and scholarships in recent years. She plans to pursue a five-year program to earn a masters degree from The Juilliard School and a bachelors degree from Columbia University. Last weekend, Liu said, she played a piano concerto in the La Jolla Symphony & Chorus Looking to the Future concerts. She was in a class on government Tuesday morning when she received an email notifying her she had been named a presidential scholar. I was very, very honored, Liu said. Its a huge personal accomplishment, but I also feel very proud to represent CCA (Canyon Crest Academy) for arts. Liu said she plans to participate in a collaborative performance with other presidential scholars of the arts at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. when the winners gather there for the awards ceremony in June. She said it will be the largest venue she has ever played. In the future, Liu said she wants to share her love of music with others through a career as a concert pianist. Chen, who is also an accomplished pianist, was named a presidential scholar for academic achievement, based in part on his perfect ACT score, he said. He told the Union-Tribune on Tuesday that he plans to attend Yale University in the fall and he wants to earn a degree in computer science. Computer science appeals to Chen because it involves both the logical and creative parts of his mind, he said. When youre writing a program, you can come up with whatever solution you want as long as it works, Chen said. While his career will probably focus on computer programming, Chen said he also hopes he can continue to play piano and perform concerts. Chen was in an art history class Tuesday morning when he learned he had been named a presidential scholar, he said, adding he was excited and texted his mom to tell her the good news. Each honoree will receive a Presidential Scholar Medallion at the 2019 awards ceremony June 23 in Washington, D.C.. Both Liu and Chen said they plan to attend the ceremony. The Senate has thrown its weight behind financial guidelines for Local Governments recently introduced by the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). The NFIU on Monday issued a guideline which prevents state governments from making withdrawals from local governments funds. The new guideline mandates financial institutions to distribute funds accruable to local governments among the local government councils of that state and not for other purposes. With effect from June 1, any bank that allows any transaction from any local government account without monies first reaching a particular local government account will be sanctioned 100 per cent, locally and internationally. In addition, a provision is also made to the effect that there shall be no cash withdrawal from any local government account for a cumulative amount exceeding N500,000 per day, the Monday statement read. Presenting a motion on the recent development, Sabi Abdullahi (Niger-APC), said issuance of the new guidelines was prompted by threats by international financial watchdogs to sanction Nigeria because of financial abuse. He added that the NFIU guidelines would reinforce the existence of Local Government as an independent government established by the Constitution at the grassroots level with sovereign and elected officials The Senate further agrees that the NFlU guidelines do not serve any purpose other than freeing the Financial System from being flooded with cash which criminals use to escape transparency, accountability, and criminal investigation, he said. The Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, urged the Senate to liaise with the NFIU to ensure that the guidelines do not contradict with any part of the Constitution. He appealed to state assemblies to fast-track their work on pending constitutional amendments which would give legal backing to local government autonomy. His position was supported by Adamu Aliero (Kebbi-APC), George Akume (Benue-APC), and Deputy Senate Leader, Ibn NaAllah. Plateau Senator, Jonah Jang, however, wanted the motion to be withdrawn. Let this motion be withdrawn and let the appropriate constitutional amendment be put in place, he said. His prayer was denied by his colleagues. They resolved to urge all financial institutions to support the implementation of the new guidelines and the federal government to urgently fund the operations of the new NFIU. They also urged the 36 state governments to fully support the implementation of the new NFIU guidelines while calling on state assemblies to hasten constitutional amendment as regards local government autonomy. A Lagos Division of the Federal High Court on Wednesday dismissed a $55 million debt recovery suit filed by the Nigerian government against Agip Oil Company Ltd, citing insufficient evidence. Mojisola Olatoregun, the judge, said the plaintiff failed to supply the requisite evidence to prove its case before the court. The Nigerian government had sued the oil company, owned by Italian oil giant, Eni, in 2016 for allegedly under-declaring the volume of crude oil it shipped out of the country between January 2011 and December 2014. The government is seeking $55 million as the shortfall in the amount of excess crude oil lifted out of Nigeria, onboard the vessel MT Cosmos. Parties in the suit had closed their cases in November last year, and the court adjourned for judgment. Delivering her judgment on Wednesday, Mrs Olatoregun asked whether the plaintiff had succeeded in proving its case to entitle it to a grant of the reliefs sought. In answer, the court held that it is trite and settled law, that he who asserts must prove, the judge said. Although allegations were made, the plaintiff failed to establish same on a preponderance of evidence. The burden of proof starts with the plaintiff and keeps shifting until all the required evidence is placed before the court. Exhibit DA 10 shows that MT Cosmos was nominated to ship 949,096 barrels of crude oil and exhibit DC 10 from the Ministry of Petroleum Resources shows the barrel of crude oil as 949,096 barrels from MT Cosmos. The plaintiff cited the same bill of lading number, but I have no reason to suggest that the bill of lading covers the excess 500,000 barrels of crude oil. While I do not have any evidence to suggest that it is impossible for the defendant to carry undeclared crude oil from Nigeria, I have no evidence to show that MT Cosmos carried the excess 500,000 barrels of crude oil with same bill of lading, she held. The judge also held that the plaintiff failed to prove its case by supplying the requisite evidence, adding that the main purpose of final addresses is to assist the court. It is trite law that whoever asserts, must prove that the facts exist; no amount of brilliant address can make up for a lack of evidence. The plaintiff failed to make out a case that 500,000 barrels of crude oil were offloaded in Pennsylvania; the case of the plaintiff fails on the lack of proof on the preponderance of evidence. At this stage, I do not find it necessary to proceed with the evaluation of the other reliefs. I, therefore, proceed to make an order dismissing this suit; it is hereby dismissed. Reacting to the judgment, Fabian Ajogwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said the Nigerian government shall be taking the case through the due process of the law. During the trial, the plaintiff called one witness and tendered three exhibits before the court, while the defendant also called one witness and tendered 12 exhibits. The suit was one of several filed against oil multinationals seeking to recover almost $12 billion in missing crude oil revenue. The Nigerian government had also sued Total E&P Nig. Plc, alleging that the oil company under-declared the volume of crude oil it shipped out of the country between January 2011 and December 2014. The government accused the oil company of short-changing it to the tune of $245 million by allegedly shipping several barrels of crude oil out of Nigeria, without making due remittance to the government. Similar suits are also pending against Chevron Nigeria Ltd, Chevron Petroleum Nigeria Ltd, Shell Western Supply & Trading Ltd among others. Advertisements The Senate has confirmed the appointment of a former Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Tunde Lemo, as the chairman of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA). It also confirmed Nurudeen Abdurahaman, as the Managing Director and six members of the board of the agency. The members are Buba Silas Abdullahi, Babagana Mohammed, Shehu Usman, Loretta Aniagol, Mujaidu Dako, and Vincent Kolawale. President Muhammadu Buhari had written to the Senate in July 2018 seeking confirmation of the nominees. Although the president in his letter described the position of the board members as executive director, the Senate Committee on FERMA said it is alien to the FERMA Act. The chairman of the committee, Magnus Abe, explained this while presenting the report. He said Section 2(3) of the FERMA Act recognises board members and not executive directors. The committee, therefore, agreed to confirm the members based on the provision of the FERMA Act. The decision of the committee was communicated to the members, and they all agreed, he said. He also said the nominees were available for screening and the committee found them suitable for the positions. He recommended that their appointments be confirmed. The Senate, after that, dissolved into the Committee of the Whole and confirmed the nominees. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has dragged the Punch newspaper and columnist, Sonala Olumhense, before a federal high court in Abuja over a publication on January 27, 2019, he considers defamatory. The former president is demanding N1 billion as damages from the newspaper and the columnist, insisting that the article was false, malicious, unjustified, injurious, scornful, distasteful, unsavoury, and exposed him to public odium, ridicule and disdain. In the syndicated article, titled This is the Best Contribution Obasanjo Can Make, Mr Olumhense, recalled previous articles he had written about Mr Obasanjo, where he noted his persistent efforts to distort Nigerias history and colour it in his own image. The columnist had also in the article reminded Nigerians that the former president was not the saint or patriot or doer he pretends to be. Mr Olumhense, in the article also said Obasanjo was no anti-corruption champion either, although nobody harangues corruption better than he. Yes, he launched the EFCC and ICPC, but they fought only the fights he allowed them to and wrote the reports he wanted. His real motivation was the largely retaliatory drive to recover the so-called (Sani) Abacha loot against the man who had thrown him behind bars. At the end, he could not account for the billions of dollars recovered. He also wrote: So abominable was Obasanjos performance on electricity that he lavished at least $10 billion he could not justify. The House of Representatives said Obasanjo often paid money to companies that had not cleared space for the projects. In an article in December 2006, I demonstrated that he spent close to N1 trillion on roads. In December 2013, using one of those roads, I explored how the practice of persistent parallel spending keeps the money flowing but not project delivery. Mr Obasanjo is also complaining that Mr Olumhense alleged that he was heavily implicated in the Halliburton scandal with the investigations in Nigeria and the US concluding that he accepted massive bribes, among other allegations. Legal Redress The former president, through his lawyer, Kanu Agabi, is also urging the court to declare that the article does not constitute a valid exercise by the defendants of their freedom of speech and of expression. He also craved an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants their associates, agents, assignees, servants, privies, proxies, allies or anyone howsoever called from further publishing or causing to be published the words complained of or any other defamatory words concerning the claimant. Mr Obasanjo prayed the court to issue an order directing the defendants to retract the defamatory words via a publication on the front page of two national newspapers within three days from the day of the delivery of the judgment of the court. Human rights lawyer and activist, Femi Falana, is expected to represent Mr Olumhense in court. Senate President Bukola Saraki has described recent moves by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to probe him as politically motivated and a witch-hunt. Mr Saraki said the anti-graft agency was only investigating matters that were already settled. The Senate President was reacting to fresh moves by EFCC to probe his earnings as Kwara State Governor, a position he held from 2003 to 2011. In a letter to the Kwara State Government, the EFCC demanded a breakdown of Mr Sarakis income, as well as his entitlements as governor of the state. The anti-graft agency is investigating Mr Saraki for an alleged case of conspiracy, abuse of office, misappropriation of public funds, theft, and money-laundering. On Monday, the EFCC in a statement, said the current probe of Mr Saraki was not in connection to his recent appointment as International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) ambassador, as reported by some media houses. Less than noble In a statement signed by Yusuph Olaniyonu, his media aide, Mr Saraki said the latest move by EFCC is less than noble and a mere witch-hunt exercise, aimed at settling scores, laced with malicious and partisan motives. The statement, released on Tuesday, noted that the tenure of Mr Saraki as Kwara State governor, had been investigated and the new exercise was only a repetition. At this point, we need to remind members of the public that Dr Sarakis tenure as Kwara State Governor has been investigated several times since his last months in office in 2010 till date. In fact, at a point, as incumbent governor, he voluntarily waived his immunity and submitted to investigation and yet nothing was found against him. Also, members of the public should be reminded that during the proceedings of his trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) between 2015 and 2018, it became clear that the evidence relied upon was from investigations conducted by the EFCC on his tenure as governor and that is why the lead witness for the prosecution was an EFCC agent, Michael Wetkas. Yet, the CCT in its judgement dismissed the 16 charges filed against Dr Saraki and that verdict was upheld by the highest court of the land, the Supreme Court. This new investigation into his activities as governor of Kwara State is a repeat performance. The EFCC is fishing for evidence that they did not get in the past investigations which has spanned almost nine years. However, we need to remind the commission that Dr Saraki is not an outgoing governor. Since 2011, tens of governors have been in and out of our various State Houses. Likewise, hundreds of senators and representatives have been in and out of the National Assembly. To single out one individual for persistent investigation can only be logically and plausibly interpreted to be a witch-hunt. This is definitely no fight against corruption. It is a battle waged against a political enemy. It is a label to damage plot. The statement noted that the EFCC wrote the Clerk of the Senate to demand documents including: the Certified True Copies of the following: i) All Cash Books, Payment Vouchers, Contract Award Letters, Evidence of Contract Bidding, Agreement and Certificate of Contract Completion from 2015 to date. ii) Certified True Copies of all Financial Retirement made within the same period. iii) Any other information that may assist the Commission in its investigation. Mr Saraki said that the documents requested are handled by the bureaucracy of the National Assembly and has nothing to do with him. He added that his actions on the non-confirmation of Ibrahim Magu as EFCC chairman was borne out of public interest and not personal grievances. Some people who have called Dr Saraki about the EFCC statement have wondered whether this is the commissions way of settling scores by blaming the non-confirmation of its acting chairman, Mr Ibrahim Magu, on the leadership of the Senate. For those who reason in this direction, our response has always been that the decision not to clear Magu was not a personal issue between both men. It was an institutional decision which was taken on a day that the public freely follows the proceedings through live coverage on television. This was done to avoid accusations that some people seized the process to deliberately deny Mr Magu fair hearing. Mr Saraki said his tenures as Kwara governor and in the Senate, were run with transparency and accountability. Clean bill of health The Senate President also made particular reference to a report by EFCC which gave Kwara State under his tenure a clean bill of health, alongside five other states. He boasted of taking necessary legislative measures to reduce corruption during his tenure as Senate President. It is to the credit of the Senate President and his colleagues in the Eighth National Assembly that there has not been any case of bribery scandal or misappropriation in the procurement process. While we do not wish to obstruct the EFCC in the performance of its tasks, we reiterate our position that the cIs ommission should be professional, ethical, transparent and consistent. It cannot be deemed professional when the agency is not consistent in the application of its rules and the laws to all cases and individuals. The recent onslaught against the Senate President by the anti-graft agency is definitely a case of different laws for different folks, the statement added. Advertisements Members of the Nigerian Labour Congress began a protest on Wednesday over the delay in the inauguration of the board of an agency. The union had accused the labour minister, Chris Ngige, of being desperate to run the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) as a sole administrator because he wants to turn the Trust Fund into his cash cow. The union, led by its General Secretary, Peter Esan, marched to the ministers Asokoro residence, on Wednesday, carrying placards with various inscriptions accusing the minister of illegality. Mr Esan, while addressing protesters, said the chairman of the union is also on his way with the last batch of protesters. PREMIUM TIMES had reported how Mr Kokori, a former General Secretary of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers Union (NUPENG), broke down in tears, when he accused Mr Ngige of oppressing him. Mr Kokori had said this at the scheduled inauguration of the NSITF board, shortly after the event was postponed indefinitely. Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, protesting against Labour Minister, Chris Ngige. The minister through his spokesperson, Rhoda Iliya, had accused the NLC of disrupting the event. PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported the controversy surrounding the inauguration. Although the presidency named Mr Kokori as chairman-designate, the labour minister omitted his name when listing those to be inaugurated. The board was constituted by Yemi Osinbajo in October 2017 in his capacity as acting president. Ministers are empowered to inaugurate boards of agencies in their ministries. Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, protesting against Labour Minister, Chris Ngige. Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, protesting Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, protesting against Labour Minister, Chris Ngige. Mr Kokori, a former labour leader during the Sani Abacha military dictatorship, had told PREMIUM TIMES he would, however, attend the inauguration. Mr Ngige, in a statement by his spokesperson, Nwachukwu Obidiwe, on Tuesday night suggested that the NLCs insistence on Mr Kokori was to allow for corruption at the NSITF. He also said he had already forwarded another nominee for the position to the president. Kokori, a labour leader, was nominated by Ayuba Waba and his journeymen to continue their vicious stranglehold on the NSITF, the minister said. Hoodlums who support the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, Chris Ngige. [PHOTO CREDIT: Sahara Reporters] on Wednesday morning attacked a PREMIUM TIMES journalist, Ayodeji Adegboyega. The thugs also attacked protesting government workers. The incident occurred during a protest rally by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the delay in the inauguration of the board of an agency. The thugs clashed with the protesters who were chanting slogans at the front of the residence of the minister in Asokoro area of Abuja. The NLC members had barricaded the street with two petrol tankers at two points around the ministers residence. Ms Adegboyega, who was covering the protest for this newspaper, was accosted by the thugs who had spotted her recording the event. The journalist had taken photographs and videos of the clash between the political thugs and NLC members. According to the reporter, the clash between the thugs and the protesters lasted for over an hour. Although there were police officers at the scene, none of them intervened to resolve the crisis. The thugs then descended on Ms Adegboyega, with stones and bottles as their missiles, forcing the journalist to flee the scene. Recounting her ordeals, Ms Adegboyega said three of the thugs soon caught up with her and seized all the valuables they found on her. The thugs were pressing my body. They collected my bag, turned it inside out and emptied it. They picked my two phones, the money in my wallet and other contents, she said. Ms Adegboyega said she had to lie that she was in the area for a house-cleaning job before the thugs let her go. Other labour journalists at the scene said they could recognise two of the thugs to be part of Mr Ngiges personal security and were always in the Ministry of Labour and Employment. Ms Adegoyega said a passer-by who had witnessed the assault from a safe distance later gave her N1000 and advised her to go back to her office. She said the driver of the NLC general secretary, Peter Ozo-Esan, was badly beaten and left lying on the floor. She said some members of NLC were badly beaten and seriously injured. Background Premium Times had reported the tussle between the NLC and the labour minister over the inauguration of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) board which was constituted by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo in October 2017 in his capacity as Acting President. Since 2017, Mr Ngige has refused to inaugurate the 11-member board thus rendering the agency powerless. However, when contacted in January, Mr Ngige said the failure of labour representatives to show up for screening was delaying the inauguration, a statement Mr Wabba had described as falsehood. When he decided to inaugurate the board, Mr Ngige left out the name of Frank Kokori, a former labour leader, who had been named the chairman of the board by Mr Osinbajo. NLC, however, insists Mr Kokori must be inaugurated as the chairman of the board. Four men thought to be Nigerians and arrested by the police in the United Kingdom are to remain in custody ahead of the resumption of their trial in October, the UK police told PREMIUM TIMES Wednesday. The men were arrested after they sneaked aboard a ship which set off from Lagos, Nigeria, and allegedly threatened the crew In an earlier exclusive email to Premium Times in January, the Essex police disclosed the identities of the suspects as Samuel Jolumi, 26; Ishola Sunday, 27; Toheeb Popoola, 26; and Joberto McGee, 20. Apart from confirming that they are all men, the police did not disclose their names when they were arrested late December. They were taken into custody on December 21 after 25 members of the British Navys Special Boat Service were deployed that day to regain control of the ship. British Prime Minister, Theresa May, was said to have sanctioned the operation of the SBS, an elite naval unit in the UK, and the special commandos were flown on a helicopter to the vessel off the coast of Kent near the Thames Estuary. The ship left Lagos on December 10 and the suspects were found when they allegedly threatened to harm the crew, according to the owner of the 71,000-tonne ship Grande Tema, Napoli-based Grimaldi Lines. In what was going to be a deadly risk, the four stowaways were thought to be hoping the ship would sail close to the shore so they could swim to the land. They were first arraigned on December 24 before the Chemsford Magistrates Court and charged with affray. In the UK, affray is a common law offence involving unlawful fighting, violence or a display of force by one person or a group of persons to the terror of others. The maximum penalty for the offence is five years (level 6) imprisonment. On February 22, according to the Essex police in an email to PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday morning, the suspects appeared before the Basildon Crown Court, also in Essex County, southeastern England, where they pleaded not guilty to the charge. Separate checks on court proceedings showed they also denied charges of making threats to kill members on the crew before the appearance of the special rescue team. They pleaded not guilty to the charges and are due to stand trial at Basildon Crown Court on October 2, a spokesperson for the police, Matthew Stanton, said in the email. The court has remanded them in custody. To secure their conviction when their trial resumes in October, the police would have to prove the suspects used force or display violence aboard the ship and that in that circumstance, force or violence was unlawful and that action could terrify others. A Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday adjourned until May 24 a suit filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), seeking final forfeiture of about $8.4 million and N7.4billion found in accounts linked to a former First Lady, Patience Jonathan. Justice Mojisola Olatoregun adjourned the suit for the continuation of affidavit evidence after defence counsel informed the court that it required time to look at a counter affidavit served on it by the EFCC The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the EFCC had secured an interim order for forfeiture of the sums on April 20, 2018, before Mrs Olatoregun, following a motion exparte. It joined as respondents: Patience Jonathan, Globus Integrated Services Ltd, Finchley Top Homes Ltd., Am-Pm Global Network Ltd, Pagmat Oil and Gas Ltd and Magel Resort Ltd and Esther Oba. On October 29, 2018, EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, had moved his motion for final forfeiture of the sums, urging that same be finally forfeited to the Federal Government. Meanwhile, defence counsel, Ifedayo Adedipe (SAN), Mike Ozekhome (SAN), and Ige Asemudara, had respectively moved their processes in opposition to the motion for final forfeiture. On January 15, the court had admitted electronic evidence presented by respondent counsel, which depicted video exhibits showing various business outfits of Finchley Top Homes Ltd. and Magel Resort Ltd. The court had then adjourned for judgment. In a judgment delivered on February 28, the court had held that it finds the affidavit evidence conflicting, adding that same can only be resolved by oral evidence of parties. The court had then ordered parties to call their witnesses. At the last adjourned date, an EFCC witness, Orji Chukwuma, had concluded evidence before the court, while the court had adjourned for continuation of evidence. When the case was called on Wednesday, Mr Oyedepo informed the court that he filed a counter affidavit which he had served on the defence, adding that he was ready to proceed. Meanwhile, defence counsel, Mr Ozekhome (SAN), confirmed service of the counter affidavit but added that there were new facts deposed in same, which he required time to look and respond to. He, therefore, sought an adjournment which was not opposed by other counsel. The court consequently adjourned until May 24 for the continuation of trial. Evidence will now continue on the next adjourned date. (NAN) The President of the Court of Appeal, Zainab Bulkachuwa, has threatened to deal with lawyers, petitioners and the media found analysing in the media any petition before the presidential election tribunal. Mrs Bulkachuwa said any lawyer found analysing a case after a court sitting would be liable to being dealt with by the appellate court. She gave the warning at the inaugural session of the tribunal on Wednesday in Abuja. According to the Court of Appeal President, such analyses tend to jeopardise the matter before the tribunal. We are witnesses to what is happening in high profile cases where such cases are being discussed and publicly decided prematurely, both in the social and electronic media before the announcement of the verdict in court. We pray that this time there would be an exception for the benefit of the nation. We dont expect counsel to any of the parties to heat up the polity after any sitting by making a public analysis in the media as to what transpired in court. This admonition is also extended to the parties, their respective counsel and the Lamberts of the press. We on our part will make relevant information available as at when due. Any breach will not be condoned and we will not hesitate in taking action against offenders, Ms Bulkachuwa said. She added that the election tribunals have been established in all the states of the federation, except for Jigawa state where no petition has been filed. Mrs Bulkachuwa further said 786 petitions are before the various tribunals, with those from Imo State topping the list with 74 petitions. The tribunal began hearing in four major petitions intended to be treated at the court. The court fixed the dates for the hearing of three of the petitions while no date has yet been given for the fourth. The court fixed May 14 for hearing the petition by Hope Democratic Party against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) The petition by the main opposition, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was slated for hearing on May 15 and 16, respectively. Another petition brought by the Coalition for Change is billed to be heard on May 20. The court declined to give a date for hearing the petition from the Peoples Democratic Movement. The presidential tribunal is expected to determine the cases, including the petition brought by the candidate of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar, who has alleged that the election was massively rigged in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Although Mr Atiku was absent at the tribunal on Wednesday, his running mate, Peter Obi, was at the court. Pat Donahue had a vision. The chairman and chief executive officer of Donahue Schriber, owner of the Del Mar Highlands Town Center, was visiting Barcelona with his son five years ago when they got a chance to visit El Nacional. Considered the citys gastronomic experience, the restaurant is divided into culinary areas and bars all under one roof. Donahue asked his son: Could this work in Del Mar Highlands? Inside the new Sky Deck under construction at Del Mar Highlands Town Center. Karen Billing For five days he watched it and studied it, returning stateside with a plan. He wanted something similar but not with too many vendors that it felt too crowded. He didnt want something that was too fancy or high-end but that was a more special experience than a glorified food courthe wanted more reasonably-priced options where people could have their pick to sit down for a meal at a variety of spots, like the ultimate date night place. Donahue Schriber even sent a team to Barcelona as they worked to develop the right mix of merchants and feel to create the restaurant collective experience that would be known as The Sky Deck. I just think its an exciting time here, said Donahue at a May 2 preview event at the under-construction destination. I think were onto something really special. At the preview event, guests got a sneak peek at the elevated dining experience with announced tenants Thai Extraordinary, Ambrogio 15, Le Parfait and a Mediterranean concept by Beeside in Del Mar. Restaurant concepts will surround a central craft cocktail bar from Scott Slater of Slater's 50/50 Karen Billing Empty spaces under the peaked, skylight-filled roof were marked top local favorite, all around central bar Noblesse Oblige Craft Cocktails, a new concept from Scott Slater, the founder of Slaters 50/50. There will be a total of 10 restaurant concepts in the Sky Deck and some will have their own outdoor patios. A winding statement staircase leads up to the Brewers Deck. In perhaps the most scenic overlook in Carmel Valley, the deck will host a tasting room for Northern Pine Brewing, Rough Draft Brewing and Boochcraft. People are going to have a lot of fun, it will be a really fun place for people to come, said Donahue, noting that the new additions are a part of a strategy to really extend the hours of operation at the center as well as expand the experience. Everything you need is right here. A stairway heads up to the new Sky Deck which will above the new Jimbo's. Karen Billing The Sky Deck will be above the brand new Jimbos, which is expected to open first in September 2019. The Collection, the other part of Del Mar Highlands $120 million expansion, will open throughout 2019-20, including another new health food concept from Slater called Head Lettuce, a boutique fitness row and additional retail tenants such as Diesel, a Brentwood-based bookstore. Former vice president Atiku Abubakar has admonished President Muhammadu Buhari and the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) to take responsibility for the increasing rate of insecurity in Nigeria. He also accused the Buhari administration of fabricating false news through a faceless international Non-Governmental Organisation to explain the insecurity in Nigeria. Mr Atiku was reacting to a report published on Monday by an organisation, Centre for Diplomacy and Democracy, based in Washington DC, USA, alleging Mr Abubakar has a hand in the killings across Nigeria. In a statement signed by Paul Ibe, his media adviser, Mr Abubakar said such reports could cause further division and instability in the country. The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said his checks indicate that no such body called Centre for Diplomacy and Democracy exists, adding that the Americans will never write Centre. They will write Center in conformity to American English usage. This is the deepest low that Muhammadu Buhari administration has gone in causing further division and promoting instability in Nigeria, he said. Anyone versed enough in the protocol of international NGOs will discern without much ado that the particular report by a faceless, insipid organisation known as Centre for Diplomacy and Democracy was contrived with express mobilisation from officials of the Buhari administration in a shameless and disingenuous attempt to find a jejune explanation for the rising rate of insecurity in Nigeria. It is so distasteful that the Buhari administration, rather than have a self-introspection and admit to the world that its policies and actions are responsible for the divisions in the country with the manifestation of all manner of crimes such as banditry, kidnapping and wanton killings across the land chooses to employ the service of a faceless NGO to blame the opposition for its own ineptitude. Mr Abubakar accused the Buhari administration of always thriving in propaganda and double-speak. He urged the president to stop the infantile style of looking for whom to blame for his failures will not obliterate his abysmal record of performance in the past four years. He also took a swipe at Mr Buhari comment that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammad Adamu, has lost weight due to his efforts to keep the country safe. The Buhari administration and the ruling APC are renowned for propaganda stunt and double-speak. Sadly, it does not matter to them the disturbing number of criminalities happening on a daily basis in Nigeria, he said. In their warped thinking, the performance rate of security chiefs during times like this is determined on how much weight the Inspector General of Police has lost. The question to ask is: how would the APC have reproved a president who makes such careless remarks on national security at a time when insecurity in the country has assumed epidemic proportions? President Buhari and the APC have shown without equivocation that the job at hand is overwhelming for them. And because they lack the basic clue of how to tame the bogey that they have created, they now scamper around like school kids who have caused an upset in a highly sensitive science laboratory. Nigerians dont pray for a president who passes the buck. All they want is a president who can hold the bull at the horn and get the job done. After all, President Buhari took an oath to defend the lives and property of the citizens, which is the primary responsibility of every government. More than a third of the arrests made over examination malpractice in the 2019 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) was recorded in Bauchi State, a report by the Special Technical Task Team of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has revealed. The document, obtained exclusively by PREMIUM TIMES, showed that 48 out of the 136 suspects were arrested in Bauchi during the examination conducted nationwide from April 11 to 19. Sokoto and Lagos states followed, with five persons each arrested for infractions during the examination. The document showed that the arrests were made in 23 out of the 36 states. The task team reported that the legal department of the state police command was vetting the case files of the suspects arrested in Bauchi State to determine the appropriate legal steps to take. Details The document shows that three of the five suspects arrested in Sokoto State have been arraigned in court. The two others were granted bail but their sureties were yet to produce them for trial. In Lagos State, three suspects have been arraigned in court for selling JAMB questions papers. The remaining two arrested in the state were granted bail but were yet to be produced by sureties too. One suspect was arrested each in Kebbi and Kwara states. The board also arrested suspects for infractions in Gombe, Ekiti, Abia, Delta, Plateau, Oyo and the Federal Capital Territory. The other states where arrests were made are Borno, Enugu, Adamawa, Rivers, Kaduna, Bayelsa, Edo and Ebonyi. On Wednesday, the JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin in phone interview said about 200 suspects were arrested for examination malpractices during the exercise. UTME is a computer-based standardised examination organised by the JAMB for prospective undergraduates in Nigeria. The2019 UTME began on April 11 and ended April 17 with 1.8 million registered candidates. Trends PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported how a man, who claimed to be a professor, Jide Jisus, was caught for alleged examination malpractice. According to a statement by the spokesperson of JAMB, Fabian Benjamin, Mr Jisus was apprehended by a monitoring team in an examination hall at Brix Academy, Jabi, Abuja. Apart from Mr Jisus who impersonated a professor, mercenaries, who illegally sat for the examination for their clients were also arrested across the country during the examination. Steps taken Due to the infractions, the registrar of the board said the examination will be well scrutinised before the results are released. Some candidates are already appealing to the board to release their results. Shortly after the conduct of the examination on April 18, JAMB had announced the cancellation of all results in two of its centres in Abia State. The two affected centres, Heritage and Infinity CBT Centre and Okwyzil Computer Institute Comprehensive School, Ugwunabo, Aba, were summarily suspended and all candidates who sat for the examinations at the centres were reallocated to other nearby centres. PREMIUM TIMES also reported how five persons were convicted for malpractices in Kebbi and Zamfara states for infractions. Below is breakdown: Table I of arrested suspects Table II of arrested suspects In what looks like a reprisal, five persons have been killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen in Murbai community of Ardo kola local government area in Taraba State, sources have said. Two Fulani herdsmen were earlier alleged to have been killed by suspected Kona militia, a situation that led to tension in the area. The attack is said to have started at Yowai community, under Jalingo local government area, but later escalated to Yelwa in Abare community of Ardo-kola local government area at about 7:00 p.m. According to locals, the herdsmen, who were riding on motorcycles, struck at Murbai community shooting sporadically. They reportedly killed five persons and burnt homes. They were possible on a revenge mission because two days ago, two Fulani nomads were reported to have been killed by Kona people. You know them (Fulani herdsmen), they dont forgive, and that I am sure could be the reason for this attack, a commercial bus driver, who plies Ardo Kola-Jalingo road, said. Also, a witness, Francis Nomiri, whose father was killed said, I saw all that happened with my naked eyes. He said some villagers were in the market while others were resting at home when the attack occurred. Only for an alarm to be raised that the Fulanis have surrounded us with three persons per motorcycle shooting, and in the course of escaping, five persons were killed by stray bullets, he said. One of the victims is a blind man, who was seated under a tree and was shot dead. Two persons are now receiving treatment in the hospital, and remains of the deceased have since been deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, he said. PREMIUM TIMES is yet to verify the claims of these witnesses. When contacted, the state commissioner of police, Alkasim Sanusi, confirmed the attack. Our men and other security operatives were deployed to the affected communities to restore normalcy, he said. Investigation is on, to bring to book those behind the attacks. Inadequate and unequal distribution of human resources for health is a major challenge in the Niger States health sector, the governor of the state, Abubakar Bello, has said. The governor said this on Tuesday while receiving some senior executives of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS) study tour team course 41, who paid him a courtesy visit at the government house in Minna, the state capital. PREMIUM TIMES reported that the NIPSS delegation arrived at the state on Monday for a study tour of the health sector, especially the primary health system. The visit is coordinated by NIPPS, in collaboration with the Development Research and Project Centre (DRPC). Mr Bello said health workers at the states General Hospital are overworked and overwhelmed by patients who throng the facility from far-to-reach hinterlands because of the dearth of human resources in the Primary Health Centres. Last year, I visited the general hospital and the doctor there was overwhelmed. I arrived at about 10 p.m. and found that he has been working since 4 p.m. and even at that time; he still had about 40 patients to attend to. I looked into his eyes and I can (could) clearly tell that this man is tired, the governor said. I was disturbed and we employed about 300 doctors afterwards. If people are healthy, their productivity increases especially it has to do with human lives. Mr Bello said there is a huge shortage of health professionals in the rural areas of the state at the moment. He lamented that the state is losing a lot of people during deliveries. The numbers are not encouraging. It is the responsibility of the government to do whatever it can to change the narrative and we are doing our best. PHC Under One Roof The governor said it occurred to me that most of the patients I see there (at the general hospital) can be treated at the PHCs; so we adopted the PHC under one roof. It initially should be the responsibility of the local government area (LGA) authority but we realised that capacity is not there so we brought it to state level and brought PHC under one roof. For a start we decided to revitalise one PHC in each of the 274 wards in the state to at least minimise sick people travelling from various wards to urban towns for care. Once their needs are addressed at the ward level, then no need to worry the secondary level. Former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar receiving senior executives of the NIPSS study tour team course 41 who paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Minna, the Niger state capital. Former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar receiving senior executives of the NIPSS study tour team course 41 who paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Minna, the Niger state capital. Former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar receiving senior executives of the NIPSS study tour team course 41 who paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Minna, the Niger state capital. PREMIUM TIMES reports that the PHC under One Roof is modeled on guidelines developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for integrated district-based service delivery and on majorly, the principle of integration of all PHC services delivered under one authority, at a minimum. It consists of health education and promotion, maternal and child health, family planning, immunisation, disease control, essential drugs, nutrition and treatment of common ailments. Brain Drain Meanwhile, the state commissioner of health, Mustapha Jibril, spoke on the challenge of brain drain in the rural and far-flung areas of the state. He explained the governments plan on tackling the challenge. On human resources we are trying to come with various policies that will enable us to send people to rural areas and make them stay there, he said. Health workers we are recruiting for those places have to sign an agreement that they will not leave or request for transfer over a period of time or they will be relieved of the jobs. We also make sure the people we picked are from the localities. We are doing specialised recruitment whereby people recruited will get specific allowances and also paid dislocation allowances different from what others get. This will serve as an incentive to make them to stay, he added. A former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, on Tuesday described the proliferation of fake, expired and substandard drugs as a major challenge in the Nigerian health sector. Mr Abdulsalami, a retired general, said this while receiving senior executives of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS) study tour team course 41, who paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Minna, the Niger State capital. PREMIUM TIMES reported that the NIPSS delegation arrived at the state on Monday for a study tour of the health sector, especially the primary health system. The visit is coordinated by NIPPS in collaboration with the Development Research and Project Centre (DRPC). NIPPS is Nigerias policy formation centre for bureaucrats, private sector leaders, army officers, medium-rank and senior civil servants. It was founded in 1979. While receiving the delegation, the former military ruler, who is among notable Nigerians that have attended the NIPSS, expressed delight over the visit. What Abubakar said I am very delighted to see you in my office. Since my retirement, I relocated back home. I think we have to thank the founding parents of the NIPSS for bringing this institution to brainstorm and bring solutions to the government, he said. Since inception a lot has been done. I was a bit tickled when the team leader said healthcare delivery is the study this year because in 1985 when I was in the NIPSS, that was one of the topics. That time, there was Gongola and Plateau states. It was quite revealing to see some of the problems and medical challenges we have been facing which have lasted over a long period of time. One of the major problems then in 1985 was that there were drugs in a store in Plateau State that was produced in 1966. Because of the bureaucracy of the system, there was no authority to destroy the fake drugs and by and large, these drugs are (were) being circulated into the society. That was during the military regime. We immediately informed the military administrator of the state to come and see and thank God the next day the drugs were destroyed. Mr Abubakar urged the NIPSS delegation to look into the circulation of fake and adulterated drugs in the country. He, however, regretted that funding is a major problem with the health sector. I hope one day we will get out of these problems. Fake Drugs According to NOIPolls, 18 per cent of Nigerians have personally been victims of fake, counterfeit and substandard pharmaceutical products, medicines and drugs. The poll identified Independent pharmacy and drug hawkers as the two main points of purchase of fake drugs. According to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), 17 per cent of drugs circulating in the country are fake, Vanguard Newspaper reported few days ago. To tackle the adverse impact of fake drugs, a strategic plan to monitor the purchase, supply and distribution of drugs in Niger is underway. The Niger State Drugs and Hospitals Consumables Management Agency (NSDHCMA) is now the sole distributor of drugs in the state, the management of the agency said. With the agency in charge of drug distribution in the state, it will be easy to trace the source of fake drugs and recall those already in circulation, Mohammed Audi, the Executive Director of the agency said while addressing NIPPS delegation earlier on Monday. Mr Audi said the establishment of the agency was in response to the national drug distribution guideline, that says there should be a strata with clearing defined roles for drug production, distribution, manufacturing, importing and retailing. He said the agency is now charged with the responsibility of buying drugs from well established sources; then further distribute to both public and private care providers. Advertisements The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) in Kebbi on Wednesday said more than 350,000 farmers were unable to participate in the 2019 dry season farming in the state due to financial constraints. The Secretary of AFAN in the state, Muhammad Idris, spoke in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Birnin Kebbi. Mr Idris said the farmers lacked the necessary wherewithal owing to economic hardship and expenses attached to sustenance of the dry season farming, especially given the current sweltering weather. Every year, about 500,000 farmers participate in dry season farming, but this year, they cannot do so because they do not have enough money to do so. So far, our records reveal that only 150,000 farmers are farming, out of the 500,000 farmers that participated in 2018 dry season farming. Apart from the current sweltering weather, the grassroots farmers do not have enough assistance and enough money at their disposal to venture into the routine dry season farming, he said. The AFAN scribe stressed the need for farmers to be provided with modern seed varieties that were drought resistant and could grow faster than conventional seeds. The rural farmers need loan now as assistance from both the Federal and State Governments. The state government had provided 886,000 tonnes of fertiliser at a subsidised rate of N5,500 a bag to farmers across the state to ensure hitch-free farming. The fertiliser will be sold to the farmers in the 225 wards across the 21 local government areas of the state at the subsidised rate of N5, 500 per bag, instead of N8,000 being sold in the open market. Kebbi farmers were also among the first to benefit from the governments rice farming funding under the Anchors Borrowers Programme. the programme involves the provision of loans and farm inputs/equipment to rice farmers. The programme has led to an increase in local rice production. The Kaduna State Chairman of Rice Farmers Association (RIFAN), Muhammadu Nungu, says the association lost 15 members in attacks by gunmen and kidnappers between 2016 and 2018 cropping seasons in the state. Mr Nungu told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna on Wednesday that many rice farmers abandoned their crops during the 2018 season due to incessant kidnapping and attacks by gunmen in different parts of the state. As I speak to you, we have lost no fewer than 15 members between 2016 and 2018 farming seasons to gunmen and kidnappers who will freely attack farmers while working on their farms. Many others sustained injuries during similar attacks in different local government areas of the state where rice is being produced, Nungu said. He said that most farmers were afraid to go to their farms because of fear of being attacked or kidnapped by gunmen, a situation which he said had reduced the quantity of rice hitherto produced in the state. According to him, rice farmers faced two serious challenges; one is that of security in some local governments where rice is produced. Birnin Gwari, parts of Giwa, Kajuru, Kachia, Sanga, parts of Kauru and Jemaa Local Governments were most hit by the menace of attacks and kidnapping. The other challenge is flood which is natural but had ended up destroying most of our crops in some parts of the state. This had reduced rice production in the state by more than half. You know that more than 13,000 of our members are benefiting from the Anchor Borrowers Programme, so with these challenges, paying back the loan became another challenge. But so far, we are able to pay back more than 40 per cent of the loan, even with the challenges at hand, he said. He appealed to governments at all levels to address the issue of kidnapping and gunmen attacks, for farmers to fully resume production. Dahiru Abdullahi, the Information Officer at the state Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, told NAN that the state government was on top of the situation with various measures taken to ensure farmers safety while working on their farms. Mr Abdullahi, however, advised farmers to work in groups, avoid working in isolated farms and report any suspicious movements they noticed around their farms. (NAN) The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, on Tuesday flagged off the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme, tagged Ekiti-Kete School Meal in Ekiti State. With the flag off in Ekiti, the number of states now participating in the programme has increased to 31. Mr Osinbajo said 75,020 pupils in all the public primary schools across Ekiti State would be fed once daily. He said the programme would increase school attendance and enrolment as well as checkmate malnutrition among the school age children. He said the school feeding programme is one of the components of the social investment programme of the federal government which is currently catering for 9.3 million pupils and has empowered farmers whose produce are purchased for the programme. He said it was important the government programmes empower the people and alleviate poverty among the masses. The vice president commended the Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, for keying into the programme. He said he was not surprised the governor gave support for the success of the social investment programme as he was one of its initiators. He said Mr Fayemi pioneered some of the social security programmes, especially the introduction of the Youth Volunteers programme which is now called NPower at the national level and the social security for the elderly. He stated that the federal government had expended N5.6 billion on its social investment programmes in Ekiti State; adding that the government would soon increase the number of Npower volunteers to accommodate more unemployed youth across the country. Giving further details, Mr Fayemi disclosed that about 2,000 people had been employed to meet the feeding requirements of over 905 public primary schools in the State. He said that the programme would create jobs along the value chain of the economy and boost the income of peasant farmers by creating a viable and ready market. He assured that the state government would play its part with utmost dedication, commitment and honesty to make the school feeding programme in Ekiti State the cynosure of all eyes. Your Excellency, we in Ekiti State, commend your relentless personal commitment and leadership on social investment in the country. I can confirm that it has made a major difference in distinguishing between a compassionate government and an uncaring one and the result was evident in the last election, said Mr Fayemi. It is clear that the people support our ideology that sees government as a catalyst for development, not a bystander that leaves everyone to his or her fate and we have you and Mr President to thank for your exemplary leadership in this regard. In her remarks, one of the caterers employed for the school feeding in Moba Local Government, Modupe Ajisefini, thanked the government for the initiative. She said the programme had improved school attendance since it started a few weeks ago. She said the programme would provide nutritional value and improve pupils intelligence quotient. A cross-section of elected officials and residents assembled Monday, May 6, to reiterate their dissatisfaction with San Diego Countys regional planning agencys proposal to shift money away from highway expansion projects and toward more mass transit development. After speaking for half an hour, the politicians recruited a tree trimmer working at a nearby home to emphasize their point. In front of the few remaining reporters and their cameras, Andrew Deno said it took him 90 minutes to drive from his home in Vista to his job that day in Solana Beach, a trip that without traffic would take 30 minutes. I deal with traffic every day, said Deno, before he got the all-clear to fire up his noisy power tools and resume work on some nearby landscaping. County supervisors Kristin Gaspar and Jim Desmond organized the media event at the northern end of Rios Avenue overlooking Interstate 5 and the San Elijo Lagoon in Solana Beach. Each participant in turn denounced the proposal unveiled April 26 by San Diego Regional Planning Agency Executive Director Hasan Ikhrata. His idea would shift money away from highway improvement projects and instead use it to further public transit systems such as the San Diego trolley light rail and the Coaster and Sprinter commuter trains. Gaspar, Desmond and others said that change could kill long-awaited projects, such as the HOV lanes that were promised for state Route 78 and other highways when the countys voters approved a 40-year extension of the half-cent sales tax known as TransNet in 2004. Last week, the county Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to oppose the SANDAG proposal, with Supervisors Greg Cox and Nathan Fletcher casting nays. This proposal short-changes North County residents on roads, Desmond said Monday, calling it a massive bait-and-switch that promised taxpayers one thing and delivers something else. Even if the county tripled the number of mass transit riders, 90 percent of San Diego County commuters would still be using their cars, he said. SANDAG is expected to release cost estimates and other details on the proposal in the months ahead. The plan outlined by Ikhrata is expected to cost billions of dollars and probably would require voters to approve additional tax increases to pay for the costly transportation projects. Matching state and federal grant money also would be needed. Also, many of the highway projects outlined in the TransNet ballot measure have not been completed and now appear in jeopardy. Soaring construction costs are one factor, but also SANDAG overestimated the tax revenue expected from TransNet by billions of dollars. That error, and its reported cover-up, led to the resignation of Ikhratas predecessor. Still, leaders of the countys most populous cities, San Diego and Chula Vista, have said they support the planning agencys shift toward mass transit. That has much of the county worried because if the SANDAG board of directors chooses to use its population-weighted voting system, it could approve the new policy with the votes of just four of its 19 jurisdictions. This is exactly what I wanted to see, San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer said when the plan was unveiled, and Chula Vista Mayor Mary Salas said it would help attract industry to the region. Together, their two cities have almost half the countys population. Other speakers Monday included San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones, Coronado Mayor Richard Bailey, Poway City Councilwoman Caylin Frank, retired Sheriffs Department Capt. Ed Musgrove, Carlsbad real estate agent Rebecca Conley, and Marjorie Camp, a 37-year resident of Encinitas. We cant forget about the people who are using their cars, said Jones said, the owner of a furniture sales and marketing business. She said one company in San Marcos, Hunter Industries, has 800 employees, most of whom drive to work, and who need the completion of the Route 78 HOV lanes. She and others emphasized the need for a balanced approach to transportation spending. The TransNet plan called for the largest share of tax money, about half of the revenue, to be spent on freeway and highway projects to relieve traffic congestion and improve public safety. The rest of the money was to be divided among bus and rail rapid transit projects, with a small percentage of the money to pay for environmental projects, such as the restoration now underway at the San Elijo Lagoon. Frank, holding her young daughter in her arms, said mass transit is not an alternative for most families. High-speed rail is simply unrealistic for commuting moms and dads, she said. Its also a public safety issue, Musgrove said, adding that lives can be lost when emergency vehicles are stuck in traffic. -- Phil Diehl is a reporter for The San Diego Union-Tribune ATLANTIC CITY A 39-year-old Washington man was arrested Sunday for allegedly punching a 25-year-old city woman inside a bar and threatening to shoot her. Officers responded to the Pic-A-Lilli Pub in the beach block of Tennessee Avenue at 4:19 a.m. for a report of a woman being assaulted, police said. They arrived to find the woman after she had been punched multiple times. Police said the suspect, Landry Deorzan, also threatened to shoot the victim and showed her a handgun on his hip. After assaulting the woman, Deorzan left the bar, police said. Officers obtained a description of Deorzan, and surveillance center personnel searched the area for him, police said. They obtained footage of him leaving the area, leading Officer Scott Sendrick to see Deorzan get into a vehicle at South Carolina and Atlantic avenues. Sendrick stopped the car, arrested Deorzan and recovered a loaded handgun from the vehicle, police said. Deorzan, who police said also goes by Landry Johnson, was charged with aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, certain person not to possess a weapon, possession of an extended magazine and terroristic threats. He is in the Atlantic County jail. Massive flood gates being considered for the mouth of the Great Egg Harbor Inlet likely would impact the ecosystem of a protected river that runs through the Pinelands, the National Park Service has warned. In an April letter to the Army Corps of Engineers, the National Park Service knocked the federal agencys initial study released in March that looked at ways to mitigate flooding caused by storm surge along 3,400 miles of New Jerseys back bays. The letter singled out one idea in particular: the construction of a $3.9 billion storm surge barrier at the Great Egg Harbor Inlet, the body of water separating Absecon Island and Ocean City. Storm surge barriers consist of movable gates that stretch across the mouths of inlets and close during storms to prevent water from entering the bays and inundating nearby homes. Similar structures have been built in the Netherlands and London. But park officials said such a project could disrupt fish migrations, change tidal flows, hurt water quality and affect the ecosystem of the Great Egg Harbor River, a 129-mile waterway mostly located in the Pinelands National Preserve that drains into the Great Egg Harbor Inlet and Atlantic Ocean. PLEASANTVILLE Although Pedro F. Garcia has lived in Pleasantville since the 1980s, Tuesday marks his first Fourth of July as an American citizen. Garcia, 58, was naturalized in August 2016 after taking Stockton Universitys free citizenship class in Atlantic City. He took the path to citizenship because he wanted to give something back to the country that gave him so much. He is proud to be able to celebrate the independence of the United States from his new perspective. Jessie Finch, an assistant sociology professor at Stockton who teaches a citizenship class, said there are many reasons people immigrate to America. In her class, she hears about a lot of the extreme reasons people come to the United States. They recognize the opportunities that are available in the U.S., Finch said. Thats what our history is about: freedom. Each year, hundreds of thousands of residents from foreign countries become American citizens through the naturalization process. According to the latest data, in 2015, 34,857 people living in New Jersey were naturalized. The number of naturalized citizens rose slightly from 2014, but overall, is down compared to 10 years ago. David Montgomery, chairman of the Philadelphia Phillies, died Wednesday morning after five-year battle against cancer, the team confirmed. He was 72. "I have never known a person with more integrity or who truly cared so much about everyone who worked for the Phillies, said Bill Giles, the teams chairman emeritus. Montgomery started his time with the Phillies in 1971 working in the ticket office and operating the scoreboard, the release said. He worked his way up the front office's ranks in a series of executive roles through the 1980s and 1990s before becoming general partner, president, and CEO of the organization in 1997. He became the face of the organization during that time, the team said. He oversaw the Phillies' transition from Veterans Stadium to Citizens Bank Park in 2004, as well as some of the team's most successful seasons. In 2014, Montgomery was diagnosed with cancer and took a leave of absence from his roles as president and CEO later that year before returning in January 2015 as chairman, where he remained active. The new training center at the Phillies' Spring Training complex in Clearwater, Florida was named in his honor last year. PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account. Mayor Christopher Fox, who lives with Ferentz, has said what matters is that the overall tax rate has stayed stable. When the budget was introduced last week, he and the two other commissioners couldnt even answer questions about the total amount of the 2019 municipal budget. Fox did not return a call for comment, nor did borough Administrator Christopher Ridings. According to the budget document, the total to be raised by tax levy for municipal purposes is $2.28 million this year, compared with $2.12 million last year. So the borough must raise an additional $160,000 from property owners. The overall budget is $2.87 million for 2019, compared with $2.69 million in 2018. And thats after a wage freeze for some workers who will work a four-day, 36-hour week instead of a five-day, 40-hour work week. +2 West Wildwood mayor told cops to lay off political allies, lawsuit states WEST WILDWOOD A former Class II officer in the borough claims in a lawsuit he was fired fr Moore said the school district had extra money in surplus because of falling enrollment. While there were 60 students in the district four years ago, now there are only about 30, he said. We are going to probably do something (to lower school taxes again) next year, but it may not be to this magnitude, said Moore. A 2014 National Academy of Sciences study of eyewitness identifications recommended that videotaping them should be standard practice and that witnesses should immediately express their level of confidence in their identifications in their own words. Since no video, audio or written record of the suspects identification was made, the Supreme Court returned the case for a hearing on the admissibility of it as evidence. Previously, the court had required defendants to show that police behavior might have influenced a witness to merit such a hearing. The court also required that juries be informed of a failure to record an identification procedure, and made it clear that the preference for such a record was video first, then audio and if neither was available, then a verbatim written record. Associate Justice Barry T. Albin agreed, but wanted the conviction reversed and a new trial ordered. That makes sense since without a record of the identification, it will be impossible years later to determine whether the witness betrayed even the slightest doubt before he made a confident identification, as Albin put it. Synagogue incident should be a hate crime Regarding the recent story, Intoxicated man charged with breaking Ventnor synagogue menorah: The news in The Press recently caused me a great deal of sadness and anger. After reading the front page about how the Jews and Christians in the area were celebrating the start of their holidays and how local firefighters were being honored, I turned to Page 4 to see that the menorah that stands in front of the Chabad in Ventnor had been ripped out of the ground and damaged by a Ventnor resident. First, as a Jewish person that resides in Ventnor along with my family, I found this act to be heinous. I disagree with the Ventnor police, who said there was no indication it was a bias incident towards the synagogue or the religion. I think this was a hate crime and that this man deliberately chose a Jewish symbol to destroy. He did not choose to deface anything at any of the local churches. He defaced a Jewish synagogue. I think the story deserves more attention after all of the recent events surrounding the targeting of the Jewish community. Ilene Cantor Ventnor 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. "Hackers from China, often with ties to the government, have been accused of breaking into gas companies, steel companies and chemical companies. Not long ago, Chinese government companies were indicted for stealing the secret chemical makeup of the color white from DuPont. China developed its J-20 fighter plane, a plane similar to Lockheed Martin's F-22 Raptor, shortly after a Chinese national was indicted for stealing technical data from Lockheed Martin, including the plans for the Raptor. Chinese hacking made occasional headlines, but none really grabbed Americans' attention. There was one exception. In 2010, Google went public in announcing that it had been hacked by the Chinese government. Thirty-four other American companies that were also part of the hack stayed silent. Most have kept it a secret to this day." Dmitri Alperovitch Google hack. Alperovitch is a well-known cyber sleuth. He says when he took a look, he was stunned. President Obama other priorities CrowdStrike.com China's Hacking & CybertheftCurrent and former US officials and business execs describe hacking and IP theft by China and why they stayed silent because of the profits to be made in trade Technology theft and other unfair business practices originating from China are costing the American economy more than $57 billion a year. Top government leaders told NPR that federal agencies are years behind where they could have been if Chinese cybertheft had been openly addressed earlier.was one of the first to see it. He was working at a security firm in Atlanta during theOne afternoon, Google called, said they needed backup.DMITRI ALPEROVITCH: I knew pretty much right away that this is something very different. For the first time ever, we were facing a nation state, an intelligence service that was breaking into companies - not governments, not militaries, but private sector organizations.SULLIVAN: Where was the U.S. government on all of this?ALPEROVITCH: The U.S. government was nowhere to be seen.SULLIVAN: Evan Medeiros was on staff at the National Security Council at the time and a top China specialist under. He says they didn't turn a blind eye. Obama signed an agreement with China to address the hacking. But he says the Obama administration also had- North Korea, Iran, the economy, climate change."Program Transcript here . Dmitri Alperovitch is Co-Founder & CTO at; Senior Fellow at Harvard Belfer Center and Atlantic Council. Commenting on the occasion, Paddy Padmanathan, President & CEO ACWA Power , said : "The sum of growing collaborations between ACWA Power and Chinese entities only solidifies the relationship of trust and companionship between us and our Chinese partners. It goes beyond merely conducting business it is a reflection of the robust Saudi-Chinese ties that we have nurtured along the years. As a leading developer of power and water assets committed to supplying water and electricity at low costs while driving investments, it is always a pleasure to work with entities that complement our business model and continually amplify on the work we deliver. We are confident these partnerships will open new doors of collaboration on future and grander projects across the world." First out of three agreements took place during the Belt & Road CEO Conference. Mr. Padmanathan, President and Chief Executive Officer of ACWA Power, and Mr. WANG Lujun, Chairman of SEPCO III, signed an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract which grants SEPCO III Electric Power Construction Corporation, a subsidiary of PowerChina, to serve as the EPC contractor of Al Taweelah desalination plant. Located in Abu Dhabi, Al Taweelah is considered the world's largest desalination facility capable of supplying 200 million gallons per day. The collaboration is dedicated to improving people's access to water and promoting social development via construction and investment. Followed by the first signing, ACWA Power entered into an agreement with China Gezhouba Group International Engineering Company (CGGC Intl). Mohammed Abunayyan, Chairman of ACWA Power, signed a Cooperation Agreement with Mr. Lyu Zexiang,Chairman of CGGC Intl which outlines that CGGC was announced as the official EPC contractor in 2018 for Nam Dinh 1, a Greenfield Independent Power Project (IPP) located in Vietnam. CGGC will also assist sponsors to obtain project finance from Chinese financial institutions. Co-developed by ACWA Power and Korean Taekwang Power, the project was finalised at a total investment cost of more than US$2.4 billion with the first phase yielding a production capacity of 1,200 MW. ACWA Power concluded its agreements with a MoU signed between Rajit Nanda, Chief Investment Officer at ACWA Power, and Mr. ZHANG Wei, the General Manager of Bank of China (Hongkong) Hochiminh City Branch. The MoU incorporates general financial service agreements for Nam Dinh 1 IPP. The Bank of China is one of the four biggest state-owned commercial banks in China and is the official leading financing bank for Nam Dinh 1 IPP. On the 26th of April and in the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Mohamed Abunayyan attended the opening ceremony of BRF alongside foreign heads of state and government officials, and selected delegates from over 100 countries and international organisations. About ACWA Power: ACWA Power is a developer, investor and operator of a portfolio of power generation and desalinated water production plants currently with presence in 11 countries including in the Middle East and North Africa, Southern Africa and South East Asia regions. ACWA Power employs over 3,500 people with about 60% local employment. ACWA Power's portfolio, with an investment value in excess of USD 45 billion, can generate 30+ GW of power and produce 4.8 million m3 /day of desalinated water to be mostly delivered on a bulk basis to state utilities and industrial majors on long term off-take contracts under Public-Private-Partnership, Concession and Utility Services Outsourcing models. ACWA Power, registered and head-quartered in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is owned by eight Saudi conglomerates, Sanabil Direct Investment Company (owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia), the Saudi Public Pensions Agency and the International Finance Corporation (a member of the World Bank Group). ACWA Power pursues a mission to reliably deliver electricity and desalinated water at a low cost, thereby contributing to the social and economic development of the communities and countries it invests in and serves. ACWA Power strives to achieve success by adhering to the values of Safety, People and Performance in operating its business. For more info, please visit www.acwapower.com. @acwapower Media contact details: Jon Barber Director Marketing & Communications jbarber@acwapower.com +971(0)45091052 Mohamed Yousef Ibrahim Manager Marketing & Public Relations mibrahim@acwapower.com +966(0)556607402 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/879037/ACWA_Power.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/826465/ACWA_Power_Logo.jpg Related Links http://www.acwapower.com SOURCE ACWA Power VANCOUVER, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its operational and financial results for the first quarter of 2019. The Company previously released its gold production and gold revenue for the first quarter of 2019 (see news release dated 04/17/19). All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated. 2019 First Quarter Highlights Consolidated gold production of 230,859 ounces, 6% (12,704 ounces) above budget Consolidated gold revenue of $302 million on sales of 232,076 ounces (6% or 13,564 ounces above budget) on sales of 232,076 ounces (6% or 13,564 ounces above budget) Consolidated cash operating costs (see "Non-IFRS Measures") of $545 per ounce sold, below budget by $27 per ounce (5%) of per ounce sold, below budget by per ounce (5%) Consolidated all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") (see "Non-IFRS Measures") of $848 per ounce sold, significantly below budget by $133 per ounce (14%) of per ounce sold, significantly below budget by per ounce (14%) Consolidated cash flows from operating activities of $86 million ( $0.09 per share); for full-year 2019, if a gold price assumption of $1,300 per ounce is used, the Company expects to generate cash flows from operations of approximately $400 million for the year ( per share); for full-year 2019, if a gold price assumption of per ounce is used, the Company expects to generate cash flows from operations of approximately for the year Strong cash position of $142 million at quarter-end at quarter-end On March 26, 2019 , the Company announced very positive results from the Expansion Study Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") for the Fekola Mine, including significant estimated increases in average annual gold production to over 550,000 ounces per year during the five-year period 2020-2024, and is proceeding with an expansion project to increase Fekola's processing throughput by 1.5 million tonnes per annum ("Mtpa") to 7.5 Mtpa from the current base rate of 6 Mtpa; the Company will issue an updated Fekola Expansion Technical Report pursuant to the requirements of NI 43-101 by May 10, 2019 , the Company announced very positive results from the Expansion Study Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") for the Fekola Mine, including significant estimated increases in average annual gold production to over 550,000 ounces per year during the five-year period 2020-2024, and is proceeding with an expansion project to increase Fekola's processing throughput by 1.5 million tonnes per annum ("Mtpa") to 7.5 Mtpa from the current base rate of 6 Mtpa; the Company will issue an updated Fekola Expansion Technical Report pursuant to the requirements of NI 43-101 by In May 2019 , the Company received commitments from its existing syndicate of banks plus one new lender, to upsize the revolving credit facility ("RCF") capacity from $500 million to $600 million and to increase the accordion feature from $100 million to $200 million ; the upsized RCF is expected to close by mid-May 2019 , the Company received commitments from its existing syndicate of banks plus one new lender, to upsize the revolving credit facility ("RCF") capacity from to and to increase the accordion feature from to ; the upsized RCF is expected to close by For full-year 2019, B2Gold remains well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance with consolidated gold production forecast to be in the range of between 935,000 and 975,000 ounces with cash operating costs forecast to be between $520 and $560 per ounce sold and AISC forecast to be between $835 and $875 per ounce sold 2019 First Quarter Operational Results Consolidated gold production in the first quarter of 2019 was 230,859 ounces, 6% (12,704 ounces) above budget. Gold production from the Company's Fekola, Masbate, Otjikoto and El Limon mines all exceeded their targeted production. The Fekola Mine in Mali and the Masbate Mine in the Philippines continued their very strong operational performances, with both well-above their budgeted production for the quarter. For the first quarter of 2019, the Fekola Mine produced 110,349 ounces of gold, well-above budget by 6% (6,724 ounces), and the Masbate Mine produced 57,481 ounces of gold, significantly above budget by 15% (7,490 ounces). Compared to the prior-year quarter, gold production was marginally lower by 8,825 ounces. Consolidated cash operating costs in the quarter were $545 per ounce sold, below budget by $27 per ounce (5%). The favourable budget variance (on a per ounce of gold sold basis) was mainly attributable to Masbate's above-budget gold production and significantly lower-than-budgeted mining costs (see "Operations" section below). Also contributing to the favourable budget variance were Otjikoto's sales of lower cost gold ounces from its opening inventory and higher ore tonnage than budgeted from its Otjikoto and Wolfshag pits. Compared to the prior-year quarter, consolidated cash operating costs (on a per ounce of gold sold basis) were $74 per ounce higher (16%), primarily due to the lower grade stockpile material processed during the first quarter of 2019 at Fekola (as a result of Fekola's significantly higher-than-budgeted mill throughput) as well as to lower gold sales (the comparative quarter benefitted from additional sales of 20,153 lower cost ounces generated from the net drawdown of opening January 1, 2018 gold inventories, built-up in late 2017 in part as a result of Fekola ramping up to full steady state production). Consolidated AISC in the first quarter were $848 per ounce sold (Q1 2018 $719 per ounce sold), significantly below budget by $133 per ounce (14%), reflecting the lower per ounce cash operating costs noted above and lower than planned capital expenditures which were $24 million lower than budget (this reflects mainly timing differences as the majority of the capital underspend is expected to be incurred later in 2019). Given the gold production outperformance in the first quarter of 2019, B2Gold remains well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance with consolidated gold production for full-year 2019 forecast to be in the range of between 935,000 and 975,000 ounces. For the first-half of 2019, consolidated gold production is forecast to be between 436,000 and 456,000 ounces of gold before significantly increasing to between 499,000 and 519,000 ounces in the second-half of 2019. Consolidated cash costs are projected to remain low in 2019 with cash operating costs forecast to be between $520 and $560 per ounce sold and AISC forecast to be between $835 and $875 per ounce sold. As previously released, consolidated gold production for full-year 2019 is expected to be weighted towards the second-half of 2019, due to the planned development of open pits in the first-half of the year and subsequent ore production from those pits in the second-half. 2019 First Quarter Financial Results Consolidated gold revenue in the first quarter of 2019 was $302 million on sales of 232,076 ounces at an average price of $1,300 per ounce compared to $344 million on sales of 259,837 ounces at an average price of $1,325 per ounce in the first quarter of 2018. Gold sales of 232,076 ounces in the first quarter of 2019 were 6% (13,564 ounces) above budget. Compared to the prior-year quarter, the decrease in revenue related mainly to the timing of gold shipments (as the prior-year quarter benefitted from additional sales of 20,153 ounces generated from the net drawdown of opening January 1, 2018 gold inventories, built-up in late 2017 in part as a result of Fekola ramping up to full steady state production). Cash flow provided by operating activities was $86 million ($0.09 per share) in the first quarter of 2019 compared to $147 million ($0.15 per share) in the first quarter of 2018. The decrease mainly reflects lower gold revenue as the comparative quarter benefitted from the sale of its opening gold inventories. For full-year 2019, if a gold price assumption of $1,300 per ounce is used, the Company expects to generate cash flows from operations of approximately $400 million for the year. For the first quarter of 2019, the Company generated net income of $27 million ($0.02 per share) compared to net income of $57 million ($0.06 per share) in the first quarter of 2018. Adjusted net income (see "Non-IFRS Measures") for the first quarter of 2019 was $38 million ($0.04 per share) compared to adjusted net income of $57 million ($0.06 per share) in the first quarter of 2018. Liquidity and Capital Resources At March 31, 2019, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $142 million compared to cash and cash equivalents of $103 million at December 31, 2018. Working capital at March 31, 2019 was $206 million compared to $156 million at December 31, 2018. At March 31, 2019, the Company had drawn $400 million under the $500 million RCF, leaving an undrawn and available balance under the existing facility of $100 million. In May 2019, the Company received commitments from its existing syndicate of banks plus one new lender, to upsize its RCF capacity from $500 million to $600 million and to increase the accordion feature from $100 million to $200 million. In addition, as a reflection of B2Gold's financial strength, the upsized RCF is expected to include increased flexibility for permitted borrowings and equipment financings, coupled with less onerous financial covenants and lower pricing. The upsized RCF is expected to close by mid-May 2019 and will be for a term of four years to mid-2023. Final closing of the facility and the availability of funds under it remains subject to completion of customary closing conditions. The upsized RCF, coupled with strong operating cash flows from the Company's existing mine operations, is expected to provide the Company with continued financial flexibility to advance existing assets and pursue exploration opportunities. The Company's current strategy is to continue to reduce debt, expand the Fekola Mine throughput and annual production, further advance its pipeline of development and exploration projects and evaluate exploration opportunities. Operations Mine-by-mine gold production and gold sales in the first quarter 2019 were as follows (presented on a 100% basis): Mine Q1 2019 Gold Production (ounces) Q1 2019 Gold Sold (ounces) 2019 Annual Guidance Gold Production (ounces) Fekola 110,349 115,800 420,000 - 430,000 Masbate 57,481 50,400 200,000 - 210,000 Otjikoto 32,712 37,200 165,000 - 175,000 La Libertad 18,086 17,272 95,000 - 100,000 El Limon 12,231 11,404 55,000 - 60,000 B2Gold Consolidated 230,859 232,076 935,000 - 975,000 Mine-by-mine cash operating costs and AISC per ounce (on a per ounce of gold sold basis) in the first quarter of 2019 were as follows (based on the total production at the mines B2Gold operates): Mine Q1 2019 Cash Operating Costs ($ per ounce sold) 2019 Annual Guidance Cash Operating Costs ($ per ounce sold) Q1 2019 AISC ($ per ounce sold) 2019 Annual Guidance AISC ($ per ounce sold) Fekola $397 $370 - $410 $614 $625 - $665 Masbate $546 $625 - $665 $743 $860 - $900 Otjikoto $519 $520 - $560 $829 $905 - $945 La Libertad $1,295 $840 - $880 $1,647 $1,150 - $1,190 El Limon $991 $720 - $760 $1,524 $1,005 - $1,045 B2Gold Consolidated $545 $520 - $560 $848 $835 - $875 Fekola Gold Mine Mali The Fekola Mine in Mali had a very strong start to the year with first quarter gold production of 110,349 ounces, well-above budget by 6% (6,724 ounces), as the processing facilities continued to outperform. Throughout the quarter, the operation continued to demonstrate sustained high processing throughput without reduced recoveries. For the first quarter of 2019, mill throughput was 1.73 million tonnes, exceeding budget by 25% and the prior-year quarter by 31%. Overall mill throughput increased during the quarter from past quarters due to a combination of factors. Metallurgy was favourable and excellent recoveries were achieved with a grind coarser than planned (approximately 12% of the feed came from weathered saprolite ore which requires little grinding), low-grade ore feed during the quarter (coming mostly from upper elevations in the pit) appears to have been softer than anticipated, and overall feed size to the plant was finer than budgeted. In addition, fine-tuning of the plant circuit by the operators also played a role in the positive plant performance. Given the plant's ability to process significantly higher-than-budgeted throughput during this period, the Company took the decision to add lower grade material from the stockpiles to the plant feed. This resulted in higher gold production at a lower average grade, and, as expected, in marginally higher per ounce cash operating costs for the quarter. The average grade processed was 2.11 grams per tonne ("g/t") (compared to budget of 2.48 g/t). Gold grades from the mine continue to reconcile closely to the block model. Gold recoveries in the quarter averaged 94.1% (compared to budget of 94.0% and 94.8% in the first quarter of 2018). Fekola's first quarter cash operating costs were $397 per ounce sold, marginally above budget (by $28 per ounce or 8%) and higher than the prior-year quarter of $270 per ounce sold (by $127 per ounce or 47%). The increase over budget and the comparative quarter was mainly due to the lower grade stockpile material being processed during the quarter (as discussed above). Fekola's AISC for the first quarter were $614 per ounce sold (Q1 2018 $474 per ounce sold), slightly below budget (by $31 per ounce). Capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2019 totaled $21 million, mainly consisting of $7 million for mobile equipment purchases and rebuilds, $5 million for pre-stripping and $5 million for Fadougou Village relocation costs. For full-year 2019, the Fekola Mine is expected to produce between 420,000 and 430,000 ounces of gold at cash operating costs of between $370 and $410 per ounce sold and AISC of between $625 and $665 per ounce sold. Gold production is scheduled to be weighted towards the second-half of the year (as new high-grade ore production from Phase 4 of the Fekola Pit is scheduled to begin in the second-half of 2019). For the first-half of 2019, the Fekola Mine is forecast to produce between 205,000 and 210,000 ounces of gold before increasing to between 215,000 and 220,000 ounces in the second-half of 2019. On March 26, 2019, the Company announced very positive results from the Expansion Study PEA for the Fekola Mine. As a result, the Company is proceeding with an expansion project to increase processing throughput by 1.5 Mtpa to 7.5 Mtpa from the current base rate of 6 Mtpa. The PEA took into account the significant increase in the Fekola Mineral Resource announced on October 25, 2018. Based on the PEA, once this expansion is complete, the Fekola Mine is expected to produce more gold over a longer life, with more robust economics and higher average annual gold production, revenues and cash flows than the previous life-of-mine ("LoM"). Project economic highlights from the PEA include: estimated optimized LoM extended into 2030, including significant estimated increases in average annual gold production to over 550,000 ounces per year during the five-year period 2020-2024 and over 400,000 ounces per year over the LoM (2019-2030), projected gold production of approximately 5,000,000 ounces over the new mine life of 12 years of mining and processing (including 2019), an increase in project pre-tax net present value of approximately $500 million versus the comparable amounts in the Company's latest AIF Mineral Reserve LoM model (filed on SEDAR on March 20, 2019) (assuming an effective date of January 1, 2019, a gold price of $1,300 per ounce and a discount rate of 5%) and forecast LoM pre-tax net present value of over $2.2 billion. The processing upgrade will focus on increased ball mill power, with upgrades to other components including a new cyclone classification system, pebble crushers, and additional leach capacity to support the higher throughput and increase operability. The capital costs of this mill expansion are estimated to be less than $50 million, with spending evenly split between 2019 and 2020. Critical path items include ball mill motors and the lime slaker, both of which are expected to be commissioned in the third quarter of 2020. With public release of the PEA results, B2Gold has filed a Material Change Report and will issue an updated Fekola Expansion Technical Report pursuant to the requirements of NI 43-101 by May 10, 2019. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The Expansion Study PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources. Inferred Mineral Resources are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. Consequently, there is no certainty that the Expansion Study PEA will be realized. Fekola Exploration For 2019, exploration on the licenses in Mali is budgeted to total $18 million. The Company continues its drilling program to convert Fekola's Inferred Resources to Indicated and plans to further drill the potential to the north of Fekola, which remains open, the new Cardinal target, located west of the Fekola Pit, and the Anaconda zones. Masbate Gold Mine the Philippines The Masbate Mine in the Philippines continued its very strong operational performance into the first quarter of 2019, producing 57,481 ounces of gold, 15% (7,490 ounces) above budget and 8% (4,334 ounces) higher compared to the prior-year quarter. Gold production was significantly above budget due to both higher-than-expected head grade and recovery, as ore grade, oxide ore tonnage and total ore tonnage mined from the Main Vein Pit were all better than modelled. Masbate's gold production for the quarter resulted from processing 1.83 million tonnes (compared to budget of 1.85 million tonnes and 1.79 million tonnes in the first quarter of 2018) at an average grade of 1.32 g/t (compared to budget of 1.20 g/t and 1.17 g/t in the first quarter of 2018) and average gold recoveries of 73.8% (compared to budget of 69.7% and 78.5% in the first quarter of 2018). Oxide ore represented 31% of the processed tonnage for the quarter (versus budget of 8% and 78% in the first quarter of 2018). As planned, compared to the first quarter of 2018, gold grades increased while recoveries decreased, as higher-grade transition/fresh ore was mainly mined from the Main Vein Pit in the first quarter of 2019 (whereas the prior-year quarter included lower-grade oxide ore mined from the Colorado Pit). Masbate's first quarter cash operating costs were $546 per ounce sold, significantly below budget by $123 per ounce (18%) and comparable with the prior-year quarter. The favourable budget variance (on a per ounce of gold sold basis) was driven by the above-budget gold production and Masbate's mining costs which were well below budget for the quarter (by 24%). Cost savings were mainly in the areas of: drilling/blasting (mining locations included backfill areas which did not require blasting, and blast pattern spacing was increased resulting in savings for drill meters and blast agents), loading/hauling (mainly due to lower fuel and maintenance costs) and fewer total tonnes of waste moved (which was a result of fleet activity focused in Main Vein area, resulting in a lower-than-budgeted strip ratio). Masbate's AISC for the quarter were $743 per ounce sold, significantly below budget by $222 per ounce (23%), mainly due to the lower-than-budgeted mining costs, and comparable with the prior-year quarter. Capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2019 totaled $8 million which mainly consisted of Masbate processing plant upgrades of $4 million, mobile equipment purchases and rebuilds of $1 million, pre-stripping costs of $1 million and tailings storage facility costs of $1 million. The Masbate expansion project for the upgrade of the processing plant to 8.0 Mtpa was completed in early 2019. With the expansion now fully commissioned and online, Masbate's annual gold production is projected to average approximately 200,000 ounces per year during the mining phase and above 100,000 ounces per year when the low-grade stockpiles are processed in the subsequent period after open-pit mining activities have ceased. For full-year 2019, the Masbate Mine is expected to produce between 200,000 and 210,000 ounces of gold, primarily from the Main Vein Pit, at cash operating costs of between $625 and $665 per ounce sold and AISC of between $860 and $900 per ounce sold. Otjikoto Gold Mine Namibia The Otjikoto Mine in Namibia also had a solid first quarter, producing 32,712 ounces of gold (Q1 2018 39,499 ounces), 4% (1,275 ounces) above budget. This was attributable to above budget mining tonnage from the Otjikoto Pit and higher-than-budgeted processed grade. As previously released, Otjikoto's full-year 2019 gold production is scheduled to be significantly weighted towards the second-half of the year, as a higher-grade zone of the Otjikoto Pit is forecast to be processed in the third quarter of 2019 and high-grade ore production from Phase 2 of the Wolfshag Pit is scheduled to begin in late 2019. During the first quarter of 2019, the Otjikoto Mine processed 0.8 million tonnes (comparable to budget and the prior-year quarter) at an average grade of 1.29 g/t (compared to budget of 1.19 g/t and 1.51 g/t in the first quarter of 2018) and average gold recoveries of 98.6% (compared to budget of 98.0% and 98.7% in the first quarter of 2018). For first quarter 2019, Otjikoto's cash operating costs were $519 per ounce sold, significantly below budget by $136 per ounce (21%) and $30 per ounce below the first quarter of 2018. The favourable budget variance (on a per ounce of gold sold basis) was mainly due to lower cost gold ounces sold from opening inventory and from higher-than-budgeted ore stockpile additions. In the first quarter of 2019, more ore tonnes were stockpiled than budgeted as a result of higher ore tonnage than budgeted from Phase 2 of the Otjikoto Pit and Phase 2 of the Wolfshag Pit. These positive ore tonnage reconciliations decreased the strip ratio and increased stockpiled tonnage for the first quarter of 2019. On a total cost basis, Otjikoto's mining, processing and site general costs were approximately as budgeted for the quarter. Otjikoto's AISC for the quarter were $829 per ounce sold (Q1 2018 $723 per ounce sold), significantly below budget by $293 per ounce (26%), mainly due to higher-than-budgeted sales. Also, sustaining capital expenditures were $4 million below budget (mainly relating to lower capitalized stripping which is expected to be an overall capital expenditure saving for the year). Capital expenditures for the first quarter of 2019 totaled $7 million, consisting of $4 million for pre-stripping and $3 million for new mobile equipment and mobile equipment rebuilds. For full-year 2019, the Otjikoto Mine is forecast to produce between 165,000 and 175,000 ounces of gold, primarily from the Otjikoto Pit, at cash operating costs of between $520 and $560 per ounce and AISC of between $905 and $945 per ounce. For the first-half of 2019, the Otjikoto Mine is forecast to produce between 66,000 and 71,000 ounces of gold before significantly increasing to between 99,000 and 104,000 ounces in the second-half of 2019 (as a higher-grade zone of the Otjikoto Pit is forecast to be processed in the third quarter of 2019 and high-grade ore production from Phase 2 of the Wolfshag Pit is scheduled to begin in late 2019). El Limon Gold Mine Nicaragua El Limon Mine in Nicaragua produced 12,231 ounces of gold (Q1 2018 13,529 ounces) in the first quarter of 2019, slightly above budget. During the quarter, ore production from the new Limon Central Pit commenced with 49,000 tonnes mined at an average grade of 3.43 g/t. Development of the Limon Central Pit remains the focus of surface operations at El Limon Mine, the Santa Pancha underground mine continues to operate normally and development of the Veta Nueva underground mine is proceeding as planned. As previously released, El Limon's full-year 2019 gold production is scheduled to be weighted towards the second-half of the year, as high-grade ore production from the new Limon Central Pit is scheduled to fully come on line at the beginning of the second-half of 2019. For first quarter 2019, El Limon's cash operating costs were $991 per ounce sold (compared to budget of $876 per ounce sold) and AISC were $1,524 per ounce sold (compared to budget of $1,400 per ounce sold), both above budget primarily due to lower-than-budgeted gold sales (El Limon's gold sales were 6% below budget in the quarter due to the timing of gold shipments). Production costs were on budget on a total basis. Capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2019 totaled $7 million which mainly consisted of underground development costs for Santa Pancha and Veta Nueva of $4 million and Limon Central pre-stripping costs of $3 million. For full-year 2019, El Limon is expected to produce between 55,000 and 60,000 ounces of gold at cash operating costs of between $720 and $760 per ounce sold and AISC of between $1,005 and $1,045 per ounce sold. For the first-half of 2019, El Limon Mine is forecast to produce between 22,000 and 25,000 ounces of gold before increasing to between 33,000 and 35,000 ounces in the second-half of 2019. La Libertad Gold Mine Nicaragua La Libertad Mine in Nicaragua produced 18,086 ounces of gold (Q1 2018 19,367 ounces) in the first quarter of 2019, 14% (2,899 ounces) below budget. Gold production at La Libertad was affected by lower-than-planned grade from the San Diego Pit, which was partly offset by higher-than-planned ore tonnage and grade from the San Juan Pit. As previously released, La Libertad's full-year 2019 gold production is scheduled to be weighted towards the second-half of the year, as La Libertad's production forecast assumes that production will start from the new Jabali Antenna Pit in the second-half of 2019 (dependent upon the successful completion of resettlement activities and receipt of the Jabali Antenna open-pit permit). During the quarter, the Company concluded an agreement for Jabali Antenna with the small miners in the area, and successfully conducted the public consultation that is required for issuance of a mine permit. With the permitting issues related to the site largely resolved, the Company anticipates receiving the permit in time to start production from the pit in the second-half of 2019 as budgeted. La Libertad's cash operating costs in the quarter were $1,295 per ounce sold (Q1 2018 $1,040 per ounce sold), $249 per ounce (24%) above budget, and were impacted by the lower-than-budgeted production discussed above. La Libertad's AISC were $1,647 per ounce sold, $145 per ounce (8%) below budget. As previously released, La Libertad's AISC per ounce are forecast to decrease in the second-half of 2019 compared to the first-half of the year. The lower-than-budgeted AISC resulted from lower-than-budgeted sustaining capital expenditures arising from timing delays in developing the Jabali Antenna open pit and underground mines ($6 million) and the construction of the tailings storage facility ($4 million), partially offset by higher cash operating costs as described above and lower gold ounces sold compared to budget. These delayed capital costs are expected to be incurred in later in 2019. Total capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2019 were $4 million, consisting primarily of tailings storage facility costs of $3 million. For full-year 2019, La Libertad Mine is expected to produce between 95,000 and 100,000 ounces of gold at cash operating costs of between $840 and $880 per ounce sold and AISC of between $1,150 and $1,190 per ounce sold. For the first-half of 2019, La Libertad Mine is forecast to produce between 43,000 and 45,000 ounces of gold before increasing to between 52,000 and 55,000 ounces in the second-half of 2019. La Libertad's AISC per ounce are forecast to decrease in the second-half of 2019 compared to the first-half of the year, mainly due to higher expected gold production in the second-half and the timing of capital expenditures relating to the tailings storage facility lift ($11 million) which is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2019. Outlook Looking forward in 2019, B2Gold plans to continue to maximize cash flows and maintain a strong financial position by continuing the impressive operational and financial performance from our existing mines, continue to reduce overall debt levels, expand the Fekola Mine throughput and annual gold production, pursue additional internal growth through further exploration, development and expansion of existing projects, and pursuit of greenfield exploration projects alone or in joint ventures. The Company has recently commenced the mill expansion at the Fekola Mine which is expected to significantly increase annual gold production and enhance the mine economics over the next five years and over its LoM. A NI 43-101 Technical Report supporting the Fekola expansion will be filed by May 10, 2019. In addition, infill drilling is well underway on the Fekola North Extension to convert Inferred Mineral Resources to Indicated Mineral Resources. Exploration in 2019 will also focus on drill testing Fekola, further to the north, where it remains open, the new Cardinal zone west of Fekola and below the Anaconda saprolite resource to the north. At the Gramalote Project joint venture in Colombia (AngloGold Ashanti/B2Gold), the companies are reviewing budgets to complete significant resource infill drilling and advance permitting and feasibility work in 2019. Finally, in addition to advancing existing projects, the Company will continue pursuing gold exploration opportunities on its own and in joint ventures with junior exploration companies. Qualified Persons Peter D. Montano, P.E., the Project Director of B2Gold, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information related to operations matters contained in this news release. John Rajala, Vice President of Metallurgy at B2Gold, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information regarding engineering matters related to Fekola expansion studies. First Quarter 2019 Financial Results Conference Call/Webcast Details B2Gold executives will host a conference call to discuss the results on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, at 10:00 am PDT/1:00 pm EDT. You may access the call by dialing the operator at +1 647-788-4919 (local or international) or toll free at +1 877-291-4570 prior to the scheduled start time, or you may listen to the call via webcast by clicking here: https://www.investornetwork.com/event/presentation/46549. A playback version will be available for two weeks after the call at +1 416-621-4642 (local or international) or toll free at +1 800-585-8367 (passcode 9459299). On Behalf of B2GOLD CORP. "Clive T. Johnson" President and Chief Executive Officer For more information on B2Gold please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact: Ian MacLean Katie Bromley Vice President, Investor Relations Manager, Investor Relations & Public Relations 604-681-8371 604-681-8371 [email protected] [email protected] The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release. Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 19, 2019 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates. This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance events, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, capital and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets; statements regarding future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: B2Gold remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance for the full-year of 2019; the upsizing of B2Gold's revolving credit facility capacity and its accordion feature, and the expected terms and timing of closing; the results of the Fekola PEA; the Fekola expansion being expected to increase life-of-mine to 2030 and project pre-tax net present value, increase processing throughput and produce more gold over a longer life with more robust economics and higher average gold production, revenues and cash flows than the previous life-of-mine and the timing of such expansion; the estimated capital cost of the Fekola expansion; the release of an updated Fekola Expansion Technical Report and the timing thereof; the new high-grade ore production scheduled to begin in the second-half 2019 from Phase 4 of the Fekola Pit; production at the Masbate Mine being projected to average approximately 200,000 ounces per year during the mining phase and above 100,000 ounces per year when the low-grade stockpiles are processed at the end of the open-pit mine life; higher-grade zone of the Otjikoto Pit being forecast to be processed in the third quarter of 2019; high-grade ore production from Phase 2 of the Wolfshag Pit being scheduled to begin in late 2019; the anticipated timing of receipt of the Jabali Antenna Pit permit and the start of production therefrom; high-grade ore production from the new Limon Central Pit being scheduled to commence at the beginning of the second-half of 2019; B2Gold's consolidated gold production and the gold production at each of the Fekola Mine, La Libertad, Otjikoto Mine and El Limon being weighted in the second-half of 2019; the expected development of open pits in the first half of 2019 and subsequent ore production therefrom in the second-half of 2019; the expected completion of an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment for Gramalote in the second quarter of 2019, and the potential to proceed to a final feasibility study for Gramalote with AngloGold Ashanti; and B2Gold remaining focused on reducing debt, organic growth and greenfield exploration and pursuing other opportunities. Estimates of mineral resources and reserves are also forward-looking statements because they constitute projections regarding the amount of minerals that may be encountered in the future and/or the anticipated economics of production, should a production decision be made. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; the current ongoing instability in Nicaragua and the ramifications thereof; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines, Nicaragua and Burkina Faso and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the final outcome of the audit by the Philippines Department of Environment and Natural Resources in relation to the Masbate Project; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements. B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry. B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Non-IFRS Measures This news release includes certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), including "cash operating costs" and "all-in sustaining costs" (or "AISC"). Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with B2Gold's consolidated financial statements. Readers should refer to B2Gold's Management Discussion and Analysis, available on the Websites, under the heading "Non-IFRS Measures" for a more detailed discussion of how B2Gold calculates certain of such measures and a reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms. Cautionary Note to United States Investors The disclosure in this news release was prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101"), which differs significantly from the current requirements of the SEC set out in Industry Guide 7. Accordingly, such disclosure may not be comparable to similar information made public by companies that report in accordance with Industry Guide 7. In particular, this news release may refer to "mineral resources," "indicated mineral resources" or "inferred mineral resources". While these categories of mineralization are recognized and required by Canadian securities laws, they are not recognized by Industry Guide 7 and are not normally permitted to be disclosed in SEC filings by U.S. companies. U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of a "mineral resource," "indicated mineral resource" or "inferred mineral resource" will ever be converted into a "reserve." In addition, this news release uses the terms "reserves" and "mineral reserves" which are reported by the Company under Canadian standards and may not qualify as reserves under Industry Guide 7. Under Industry Guide 7, mineralization may not be classified as a "reserve" unless the mineralization can be economically and legally extracted or produced at the time the "reserve" determination is made. Accordingly, information contained or referenced in this news release containing descriptions of the Company's mineral deposits may not be compatible to similar information made public by U.S. companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of Industry Guide 7. "Inferred mineral resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Disclosure of "contained ounces" in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian reporting standards; however, Industry Guide 7 normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute "reserves" by Industry Guide 7 standards as in-place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures. Further, while NI 43-101 permits companies to disclose economic projections contained in preliminary economic assessments and pre-feasibility studies, which are not based on "reserves", U.S. companies have not generally been permitted to disclose economic projections for a mineral property in their SEC filings prior to the establishment of "reserves." Historical results or feasibility models presented herein are not guarantees or expectations of future performance. B2GOLD CORP. CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31 (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) 2019 2018 Gold revenue $ 301,664 $ 344,288 Cost of sales Production costs (126,502) (122,298) Depreciation and depletion (67,390) (81,248) Royalties and production taxes (19,456) (21,162) Total cost of sales (213,348) (224,708) Gross profit 88,316 119,580 General and administrative (15,778) (12,018) Share-based payments (4,747) (3,994) Impairment of long-lived assets (18,186) Provision for non-recoverable input taxes 50 (556) Foreign exchange gains (losses) 1,029 (367) Other (618) (961) Operating income 68,252 83,498 Unrealized gain on fair value of convertible notes 11,214 Community relations (1,087) (1,343) Interest and financing expense (7,768) (8,305) Gains on derivative instruments 6,246 3,028 Other (94) (133) Income before taxes 65,549 87,959 Current income tax, withholding and other taxes (27,181) (39,479) Deferred income tax (expense) recovery (11,845) 8,948 Net income for the period $ 26,523 $ 57,428 Attributable to: Shareholders of the Company $ 22,295 $ 56,482 Non-controlling interests 4,228 946 Net income for the period $ 26,523 $ 57,428 Earnings per share (attributable to shareholders of the Company) Basic $ 0.02 $ 0.06 Diluted $ 0.02 $ 0.04 Weighted average number of common sharesoutstanding (in thousands) Basic 1,001,410 982,160 Diluted 1,015,484 1,063,532 B2GOLD CORP. CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31 (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars) (Unaudited) 2019 2018 Operating activities Net income for the period $ 26,523 $ 57,428 Mine restoration provisions settled (693) Non-cash charges, net 64,350 74,717 Changes in non-cash working capital (1,922) 13,810 Changes in long-term value added tax receivables (1,839) 1,321 Cash provided by operating activities 86,419 147,276 Financing activities Repayment of revolving credit facility (75,000) Equipment loan facilities, drawdowns net of transaction costs 25,294 Repayment of equipment loan facilities (2,312) (3,017) Interest and commitment fees paid (5,774) (6,887) Common shares issued for cash on exercise of stock options 21,165 4,875 Principal payments on lease arrangements (757) Restricted cash movement (856) (1,418) Other (180) (425) Cash provided (used) by financing activities 11,286 (56,578) Investing activities Expenditures on mining interests: Fekola Mine (21,284) (21,087) Masbate Mine (8,444) (11,837) Otjikoto Mine (7,282) (11,376) Libertad Mine (4,351) (4,615) Limon Mine (7,429) (5,980) Gramalote Project (1,188) (2,436) Other exploration and development (8,368) (13,653) Other (151) (15) Cash used by investing activities (58,497) (70,999) Increase in cash and cash equivalents 39,208 19,699 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (377) 749 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 102,752 147,468 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 141,583 $ 167,916 B2GOLD CORP. CONDENSED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Expressed in thousands of United States dollars) (Unaudited) As at March 31, 2019 As at December 31, 2018 Assets Current Cash and cash equivalents $ 141,583 $ 102,752 Accounts receivable, prepaids and other 20,893 12,651 Value-added and other tax receivables 15,684 13,657 Inventories 226,050 233,971 404,210 363,031 Long-term investments 4,824 4,155 Value-added tax receivables 24,047 22,185 Mining interests Owned by subsidiaries 2,039,259 2,035,097 Investments in joint ventures 73,266 72,078 Other assets 44,929 40,351 Deferred income taxes 2,479 10,907 $ 2,593,014 $ 2,547,804 Liabilities Current Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 72,612 $ 80,318 Current income and other taxes payable 79,988 66,904 Current portion of long-term debt 29,748 25,008 Current portion of prepaid sales 12,000 30,000 Current portion of mine restoration provisions 3,044 3,170 Other current liabilities 1,262 1,850 198,654 207,250 Long-term debt 453,372 454,527 Mine restoration provisions 114,262 114,051 Deferred income taxes 106,801 103,384 Employee benefits obligation 12,328 12,063 Other long-term liabilities 2,280 3,676 887,697 894,951 Equity Shareholders' equity Share capital Issued:1,004,748,151 common shares (Dec 31, 2018 994,621,917) 2,262,165 2,234,050 Contributed surplus 67,916 70,889 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (145,484) (146,153) Deficit (524,686) (547,839) 1,659,911 1,610,947 Non-controlling interests 45,406 41,906 1,705,317 1,652,853 $ 2,593,014 $ 2,547,804 SOURCE B2Gold Corp. China's foreign trade of goods climbed 4.3 percent year on year in the first four months of this year to 9.51 trillion yuan (about 1.41 trillion U.S. dollars), customs data showed Wednesday. [File Photo: VCG] Exports increased by 5.7 percent year on year to 5.06 trillion yuan during this period, while imports went up by 2.9 percent to 4.45 trillion yuan, the General Administration of Customs (GAC) said. Trade surplus rose by 31.8 percent to 618.17 billion yuan during this period. April trade expanded by 6.5 percent to reach 2.51 trillion yuan. Exports grew by 3.1 percent in yuan terms last month, while imports jumped by 10.3 percent, GAC data showed. Trade surplus stood at 93.57 billion yuan in April, shrinking by 43.8 percent year on year. General trade grew faster than processing trade during the Jan.-April period, which also saw an increasing share in China's total trade volume. Exports of mechanical and electrical products, as well as labor-intensive products such as textile and furniture, maintained growth in the first four months of this year. The European Union was China's largest trading partner during this period, followed by the ASEAN, the United States and Japan. Trade with Belt and Road countries totaled 2.73 trillion yuan, up 9.1 percent year on year, more than doubling the overall pace. China's private firms reported faster trade growth, expanding at 11 percent year on year to reach 3.9 trillion yuan during this period, GAC data showed. FRANKFURT, Germany, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Icertis, the leading provider of enterprise contract management in the cloud, today announced that Bertelsmann, the international media, education and services company, has selected the Icertis Contract Management (ICM) platform to be its contracting foundation, digitally transforming group IT sourcing and procurement across the organization. The creative industry is facing new challenges from the growth of technology-based content distribution and creation platforms. To address this changing landscape, leading media companies are reimagining every business process, including contracting, to differentiate their offerings and delight their customers. "As global media companies look to take advantage of new market opportunities, digitally transforming their commercial foundation is imperative," said Samir Bodas, CEO and Co-founder of Icertis. "We are delighted to be working with Bertelsmann, an amazing, forward-thinking creative and entrepreneurial organization." For more information about Icertis, visit www.icertis.com. About Icertis Icertis, the leading enterprise contract management platform in the cloud, solves the hardest contract management problems on the easiest to use platform. With Icertis, companies accelerate their business by increasing contract velocity, protect against risk by ensuring regulatory and policy compliance, and optimize their commercial relationships by maximizing revenue and reducing costs. The AI-infused Icertis Contract Management (ICM) platform is used by companies like 3M, Airbus, Cognizant, Daimler, Microsoft and Roche to manage 5.7 million contracts in 40+ languages across 90+ countries. Icertis Media Contact: Haley Flanagan Corporate Communications Manager Icertis [email protected] +1 (425) 869-7649 SOURCE Icertis Related Links http://www.icertis.com CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Big Blue Swim School, the nation's leading swim school franchise, is excited to announce a new partnership with Shorewood Development Group to bring 10 new locations to Chicagoland and an additional six locations to the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Shorewood Development Group, a Buffalo Grove, Illinois-based commercial real estate firm specializing in infill retail shopping center development, brings a wealth of relevant experience to the Big Blue Swim School franchise family. Led by Louis Schriber III and Aaron Roth, SDG Swim, LLC's 16 locations will be managed by Jeff Plazak and Rachel Chavez. "I was first introduced to Big Blue Swim School when my children attended lessons in Glenview. Being in real estate development, we knew some early investors in the brand and were intrigued," said Schriber. "Once the Level 5 team got involved with Big Blue, we knew this was of significant interest to us and started pursuing the brand as another business to grow within our Shorewood investment model." Added Roth, "My excitement about the opportunity and the brand increased after flying down to Atlanta and meeting the Level 5 team. Their energy, passion and vision for Big Blue Swim School was contagious, and made me a believer of the model, culture and future of the brand." Like Big Blue Swim School co-founder Chris DeJong, Schriber has a long history with competitive swimming. Raised on the water in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, swimming has always been a part of his life. "Growing up both on and in the water, I recognize that not only is water safety extremely important, but also that being a skilled swimmer opens the doors to adventure and fun," said Schriber. "As a result of always being in the water, I was a natural at swimming. I swam varsity all four years of high school and continued to swim competitively in college for the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse." Fast forward to 2019, and the team at Shorewood Development Group is prepared and excited to tap into its vast knowledge and network in the commercial development space to expand Big Blue Swim School's presence throughout Chicagoland and into the Twin Cities market. "We have a deep understanding of the Chicago market and are extremely well-connected here, which gives us confidence in our ability to select the ideal locations for our swim schools," said Schriber. "Signing on for the exclusive rights to the remaining Chicagoland territory was critical for us to be able to be hands-on and grow our schools to both our and Big Blue's high standards." Thanks to Roth's roots in Orono, Minnesota, Shorewood Development Group has a strong familiarity with the Minneapolis-St. Paul area and feel that is one of the premier markets in the Midwest for expansion. Coupled with Big Blue Swim School's analytical ability to identify top markets, the brand's new franchisees are well-equipped to execute. "Other than just being my home state, Minnesota is truly an amazing, thriving market full of active, family-oriented people that really focus on their kids," said Roth. "It also doesn't hurt that Minnesota is 'The Land of 10,000 Lakes' where people love the outdoors and regularly interact with water, marking swimming a must-have skill. This makes our schools and services very important to the families in the community." "Aaron and Louis both have large families, each with five children all under the age of 14. They are intimately familiar with the important role swimming plays in kids' lives," said Scott Thompson, Chief Development Officer of Big Blue Swim School. "Their experience as business owners and ability to take existing real estate, envision a totally new product and execute in accordance to that vision are exceptional. They have the same vision for Big Blue Swim School and there's no doubt in my mind that their locations will be something to behold. Their ability to grow and retain top-tier employees gives us the utmost confidence that our schools will be in great hands with Jeff and Rachel leading the way." "We feel confident that our partnership has the necessary market knowledge, analytics and personnel to make the right decisions and get open quickly with the right locations," Schriber said. "Our immediate goal is to fulfill our commitment to these 16 schools while continuing to evaluate new market options to expand into. We couldn't be more excited to begin our journey with Big Blue Swim School and feel these 16 schools are just the beginning." ABOUT BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL Big Blue Swim School was founded in 2009 by competitive swimmer Chris DeJong. The first location opened in Wilmette, Illinois, followed by Niles, Buffalo Grove and Hoffman Estates. In 2017, Level 5 Capital Partners acquired a majority stake in the brand, and is rolling out an aggressive strategy to grow through franchising to 150 locations by 2020. Big Blue Swim School's real estate footprint, proprietary technology Lesson Buddy, coupled with its practice of employing full-time child engagement specialists that teach based on a proprietary distance-based swimming methodology sets Big Blue up for long-term success. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Big Blue Swim School, visit http://YourBigMomentStartsHere.com . MEDIA CONTACT: Lauren Turner No Limit Agency 312-526-3996 [email protected] SOURCE Big Blue Swim School Related Links https://www.bigblueswimschool.com/franchising/ SPRINGFIELD, Mo., May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Legend of Big Whiskey's grows as the Midwest-based restaurant franchise expands to Tulsa, Oklahoma. The brand recently signed a multi-unit franchise agreement for two locations in the Sooner State. Big Whiskey's American Restaurant & Bar. We're a sports bar for sports enthusiasts, a whiskey bar for whiskey enthusiasts, and simply a great place to meet friends or family for lunch, happy hour, or dinner! Local Tulsa businessman, Sean Sylvester, signed the franchise agreement in March with Big Whiskey's. Restaurants and food service are second nature for Sylvester who has served as the Director of Western Operations for Slim Chicken's for the past 4 years, in addition to owning Simple Simon's and Cheezies Pizza franchise locations. Sylvester is also the owner of Shiloh's Family Restaurant in Tulsa. Sylvester states, "The Big Whiskey's brand really stood out to me, it's catchy but original, and their product speaks for itself. It will be a welcome addition to our restaurant landscape in Tulsa." The Big Whiskey's Tulsa menu will feature classic American fare that has made the restaurant a staple throughout the Midwest since its founding in Springfield, MO nearly 13 years ago. Featuring flavorful American bites, some of the brand's signature items includes: Buffalo Chicken Wontons, crispy fried wontons filled with Big Whiskey's Buffalo Chicken Dip; the Big Whiskey BBQ Burger, topped with onion rings, crispy bacon and homemade Honey Whiskey BBQ sauce; and the signature Chicken Ranch Alfredo Pasta, penne noodles smothered with Big Whiskey's homemade alfredo sauce and topped with grilled chicken, a recipe that's been with the restaurant for over 10 years! And there's whiskey! The restaurant boasts over 100 whiskeys, bourbons, and scotches and features multiple signature whiskey cocktails in addition to whiskey on tap. "Architecture plans are being finalized," explains Big Whiskey's president, Austin Herschend. "Tulsa is an ideal area for us and we are really excited to be working with Sean on getting this location open soon!" The first Tulsa location is slated to open later this year. It will be one four Big Whiskey's franchise locations to open in 2019; Big Whiskey's Las Vegas opened in March, Jefferson City, MO will welcome their first Big Whiskey's this fall, and a Birmingham, AL location is anticipated to open before December. For updates on Big Whiskey's Tulsa, follow along on their Facebook page. Big Whiskey's American Restaurant & Bar currently operates eight restaurants in Missouri, one location in Kansas, and two franchise locations; Bentonville, AR and Las Vegas, NV. For franchise information, visit www.bigwhiskeysfranchise.com SOURCE Big Whiskey's American Restaurant & Bar Related Links https://www.bigwhiskeysfranchise.com "Nubank drove a financial revolution six years ago, and has changed the industry in Brazil for good, expanding competition and offering better services to millions of consumers. We are finally taking the next step by spreading our revolution to new markets, and we see a great opportunity in Mexico," says David Velez, founder and CEO of Nubank. "We've been studying the Mexican financial system for a few years and we heard from a lot of customers about the challenges and headaches they face with existing services. These services have forgotten to put the consumer at the center of their strategy and their products. On top of that, more than 36 million Mexicans currently don't have any access to the bank system - and we want to contribute for this situation to change," explains Velez. With the arrival of Nubank to Mexico, the company will open opportunities to attract the best Mexican talent with the creation of a technology, data science and design hub in the country. "We were impressed by the level of talent that exists in Mexico and look forward to making a significant investment in the Mexican technology ecosystem," says the CEO. Since 2017, Nubank has a technology hub in Berlin, Germany, focused on infrastructure and data engineering. In total, the company now has 1,500 employees from 25 nationalities, including French, Canadians, Australians, Americans, Dutch, and Mexicans. To date, Nubank has raised about US$ 420 million in seven investment rounds with important funds such as Sequoia Capital, Kaszek Ventures, Tiger Global Management, QED, Founders Fund, DST Global, Redpoint Ventures, Ribbit Capital Investment, Dragoneer Investment Group, Thrive Capital and Tencent. Through these investments, it became one of the first unicorn startups in Latin America and today is considered the most innovative company in the region. It has also become one of the most valuable digital banks in the world and the largest outside of Asia. About Nubank Nubank is the leading financial technology company in Latin America. Its first product, launched in 2014, is a no-fee credit card that is fully managed by a mobile app. Almost 30 million people have requested the product since launch, and the company has passed the 8.5 million active customer mark. In 2017, Nubank launched its proprietary loyalty rewards program ("Nubank Rewards"), as well as a digital account ("NuConta") that is already used by 4.8 million people. This year, the company began testing its personal loan service. To date, Nubank has raised around US$ 420 million in seven equity investment rounds from Sequoia Capital, Kaszek Ventures, Tiger Global Management, QED, Founders Fund, DST Global, Redpoint Ventures, Ribbit Capital, Dragoneer Investment Group, Thrive Capital and Tencent. Recently, Nubank was elected as the most innovative company in Latin America and ranked no. 36 on Fast Company' 50 Most Innovative Companies ranking. Josafat Vargas - +52 1 55 3966 1568 Nubank PR Team - +55 11 5180 7060 SOURCE Nubank "At Century 21 Real Estate we understand the importance of providing opportunities to attract young, diverse agents into the real estate industry," said Michael Miedler, president and chief executive officer of Century 21 Real Estate. "Through this program, we are able to identify that next generation of leaders and better equip them to reach their own personal career goals. Each one of these entrepreneurs embodies the relentless spirit of the CENTURY 21 brand and we can't wait to watch them achieve extraordinary things." Each honoree received a scholarship to cover the 180-hour real estate academy course tuition fees as well as the fees to take the Texas real estate agent exam. In addition, each awardee was paired with a Houston-area CENTURY 21 affiliated broker as a mentor offering them the opportunity to hone their craft with a trusted industry professional. This year's awardees were honored at a special celebratory event last night hosted by Maria Esther Mendez, TV personality and host of "Univision Houston". "As a mom of 5 children, I decided to pursue real estate because I wanted to make a change in my career and find a way to help others in my community achieve their dreams of owning a home," said Yulitzia Fuentes, a 2019 scholarship recipient. "Before joining the scholarship program, I worked as a waitress, receptionist, manager of a legal office and sales director. Thanks to this opportunity I now have the tools and inspiration to focus on my goals and become a leader with the support of professionals in the real estate industry. I'm excited to join the ranks of the relentless CENTURY 21 affiliated agents making their mark right here in Texas." To view the full list of the 40 "Empowering Latinas" scholarship and mentorship program winners and learn more about their stories, please visit C21empoweringlatinas.com . About Century 21 Real Estate LLC The approximately 129,000 independent sales professionals in approximately 9,700 offices spanning 82 countries and territories in the CENTURY 21 System live their mission everyday: to defy mediocrity and deliver extraordinary experiences. By consistently chasing excellence, giving 121% and always elevating, the CENTURY 21 brand is helping its affiliated brokers/agents to be the first choice for real estate consumers and industry professionals worldwide. Century 21 Real Estate has numerous websites to help answer specific consumer needs. They are century21.com, century21.com/global, century21.com/ commercial, century21.com/finehomes and century21.com/espanol. Century 21 Real Estate LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global leader in real estate franchising and provider of real estate brokerage, relocation and settlement services. 2019 Century 21 Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. CENTURY 21 and the CENTURY 21 Logo are registered service marks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC. Century 21 Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Contact: Erin Siegel Century 21 Real Estate LLC Phone: 973.407.2145 Email: [email protected] Polvora Advertising Aleyso Bridger Email: [email protected] SOURCE Century 21 Real Estate LLC Related Links https://www.century21.com HONG KONG and BLUE BELL, Pa., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- New research from Unisys Corporation (NYSE: UIS) reveals Hong Kong bank customers rank data security as the issue that matters to them most about their bank underscoring the importance of data security as banks prepare to work with third-parties to roll out new services in an Open Banking environment. The 2019 Asia Pacific Banking Insights: Trusting in the Banking Experience is a study of the attitudes of banking customers in Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines and Taiwan. This year's report identifies which bank attributes matter most to consumers and explores the delicate relationship between security, convenience and trust in financial institutions. The majority of Hong Kong bank customers (61 percent) cite the security and safety of customer data as the thing that matters to them most when engaging with a bank. Less than half (47 percent) rank fast and efficient service as a priority, while 39 percent cite wanting minimal disruption of their credit card or account if attempted fraud on the account is detected. "In Asia Pacific, governments and financial regulation bodies are driving the security agenda in financial institutions by setting formal standards and requirements. In 2016 the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) launched the "Cybersecurity Fortification Initiative" to raise the level of cybersecurity of banks in Hong Kong including a common Cyber Resilience Assessment Framework and professional development program to increase the supply of security professionals to the industry. However, these research findings highlight that banks should treat security as a competitive differentiator, not just a compliance issue," said Ian Selbie, industry director, Financial Services, Unisys Asia Pacific. Of the five countries and territories surveyed, Hong Kong is the only one where significantly more consumers trust the government to protect their personal data (30 percent) than banks (20 percent). Young people aged 18-24 have the highest trust in banks (26 percent), but trust rapidly falls with age. "Open Banking - where banks can digitally share data and processes with third parties to provide new services to customers - creates a significant shift in several elements of the security and risk landscape for banks. However, the potential benefits of Open Banking include improved customer experience and new revenue streams in a sustainable service model. This research shows that Hong Kong's banks do not have the trust of the public. As data security is such a priority for customers, banks can build that trust by visibly enhancing their security, compliance and ethical standards," said Selbie. Hong Kongers are increasingly frustrated by inefficient bank interactions and not being able to fully complete transactions online. The proportion of customers annoyed by having to repeat themselves to different consultants or bank channels grew from 15 percent to 21 percent in the last year and is higher with the younger age group. Similarly those annoyed by online services that require a visit to a branch or printing a form has more than doubled since 2016 to 17 percent in 2019. Conversely, while long queues remain the top annoyance, it has fallen from 53 percent to 41 percent over the last year. "While Hong Kong banks provide a good digital experience, they still fail to provide a true omnichannel experience across all touch points. And younger Hong Kongers, the growing segment of their customer base, expect online services to be a complete and consistent end-to-end service," said Selbie. The vast majority of Hong Kongers are comfortable using voice, face or fingerprint recognition to access mobile banking apps (70 percent) or facial or fingerprint recognition at an ATM (60 percent). Slightly fewer (55 percent) are comfortable using voice recognition when calling the bank's call center. However they are yet to embrace behavioral biometrics with only 47 percent comfortable with a bank tracking the unique way a person scrolls through websites, types on a phone or presses buttons, to verify identity. Of those who don't support using biometrics in banking, most say they are uncertain about the safety of their data once collected (52 percent) or are concerned about biometric data being stolen (49 percent). For more information, download the full Asia Pacific Banking Insights survey report or infographic visit: www.unisys.com/BankingInsightsAPAC. More than 450 financial institutions worldwide rely on Unisys solutions. Elevate is an end-to-end, digital banking software platform and suite of applications designed to help financial institutions deliver an instantly secure, omnichannel banking experience to their customers. Elevate is secured with Unisys' Stealth, an identity-based microsegmentation security software that allows banks to microsegment and conceal critical assets and establish encrypted channels for secure user, application and system communication. For more information on Unisys' financial services capabilities, please click here. About Unisys Unisys is a global information technology company that builds high-performance, security-centric solutions for the most digitally demanding businesses and governments on Earth. Unisys offerings include security software and services; digital transformation and workplace services; industry applications and services; and innovative software operating environments for high-intensity enterprise computing. For more information on how Unisys builds better outcomes securely for its clients across the Government, Financial Services and Commercial markets, visit www.unisys.com. Follow Unisys on Twitter and LinkedIn. RELEASE NO.: 0508/9678 Unisys and other Unisys products and services mentioned herein, as well as their respective logos, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Unisys Corporation. Any other brand or product referenced herein is acknowledged to be a trademark or registered trademark of its respective holder. UIS-C SOURCE Unisys Corporation Related Links http://www.unisys.com Eric Kmiec, Ph.D., head of Gene Editing at Christiana Care Health System and the pioneer of the CRISPR system is leading the gene editing section at the convention. In addition, 17 Delaware bioscience experts will serve as judges in the startup competition. Delaware will have an expansive exhibit, which will include space to facilitate one-on-one meetings. This year, Delaware is offering a limited-capacity tour of the state's bioscience capabilities to conference attendees. The tour will stop in Wilmington, at the headquarters of Incyte, the biopharmaceutical research company ranked by Forbes as one of the nation's top 10 most innovative companies. At Incyte, the group will hear a panel discussion featuring Incyte's CEO, Herve Hoppenot. After Incyte, the tour will head to the University of Delaware's STAR campus in Newark. The former auto assembly plant now hosts a variety of high-tech science and research companies and offers more than 10,000 square feet of wet labs. STAR (which stands for Science, Technology and Advanced Research) is home to the nation's highest ranked physical therapy degree program as well as NIIMBL (National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals). It will soon be home to Chemours Global Research as well. "Delaware has the the fourth highest number of employed PhDs working in science, engineering and healthcare," said Kurt Foreman, President and CEO of the Delaware Prosperity Partnership, the organization that manages statewide economic development for the state of Delaware. "Add to that its enviable location, low cost of doing business, and collaborative, business-friendly environment and you see why Delaware is becoming the go-to location for science and tech start-ups. Our 7th place ranking in the Milken Institute's State Technology and Science Index underscored that Delaware is taking the lead in the bioscience field." "Delaware has a uniquely expansive array of bioscience businesses," said Helen Stimson, CEO and President of the Delaware BioScience Association. "Unlike other states, Delaware's strength is its focus on innovation and its rich diversity of bioscience companies, including precision instrumentation, consumables, recombinant proteins, monoclonal antibodies, contract research organizations and contract manufacturing organizations." For more information about the BIO Convention, Delaware's participation, and the tour, visit www.choosedelaware.com/bio-convention About BIO The BIO International Convention is hosted by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO). BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO performs many services for members, but the most visible is the coordination of the BIO International Convention. The BIO International Convention helps BIO fulfill its mission to help grow the global biotech industry. The key benefits of attending the BIO International Convention are access to global biotech and pharma leaders via BIO One-on-One Partnering, exposure to industry thought-leaders with over 1,500 education sessions, and unparalleled networking opportunities with 18,000+ attendees from 70+ countries. About Delaware Prosperity Partnership Created in 2017, Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) is the nonprofit that leads the state of Delaware's economic development efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; to build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and to support private employers in identifying, recruiting and developing talent in the state of Delaware. For more information, visit www.choosedelaware.com. About Delaware BioScience Association Formed in early 2006, Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) has brought together pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms, medical device manufacturers, agricultural biotech and chemical companies, research and testing companies, hospitals and medical institutions, and other organizations and related service companies, with the shared goal of expanding the state's vibrant science economy. SOURCE Delaware Prosperity Partnership Related Links Deprosperitypartnership.com Preliminary Results Ten patients have completed dosing with DUR-928 to date in the ongoing open label, dose-escalation, multi-center U.S. trial. Eight patients (4 moderate and 4 severe) have been treated with DUR-98 at the 30 mg dose, and two patients (1 moderate and 1 severe) at the 90 mg dose. Lille scores are used in clinical practice to help determine the prognosis for AH patients after 7 days of treatment. Patients with a Lille score below 0.45 have an 85% 6-month survival rate vs. those with Lille scores of above 0.45, have only a 25% 6-month survival rate (Louvet A et al. Hepatology 2007; 45: 1348-54). The lower the Lille score, the better the prognosis is for the AH patient. In our study, the median Lille score for the 9 AH patients treated with DUR-928 who returned for their Day 7 visit is 0.04, with a range of 0.01 to 0.19. The median Lille score among a cohort of 15 patients treated with either supportive care or supportive care with corticosteroids at the University of Louisville (UL) is 0.41 (shown as historical control). 1 The chart below shows individual patient Lille scores plotted as a function of their initial MELD scores. 1) Our advisor, Dr. Craig McClain from the University of Louisville (UL), shared anonymized data from his study, in which 15 AH patients with initial MELD scores ranging from 15-30 received either supportive care alone (n=8) or supportive care with corticosteroids (n=7). 2) Of the 10 AH patients dosed to date with DUR-928, one patient did not return for the day 7 visit, so Lille scores could only be calculated for 9 of 10 patients. 3) Lille scores in the DUR-928 patients were significantly lower than that of the UL patients (p=0.002; Wilcoxon's Signed Rank Test). Mathurin et al. proposed three prognostic classifications of AH patients in response to treatment based on Lille scores and their correlation with 28-day survival rates from a meta-analysis of four randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of corticosteroids in an aggregate of 324 patients with severe AH. (Methurin P. et al. Gut 2011; 60:255-260) The following table shows the percentage of patients from three AH data sets, including DUR-928, in each Mathurin classification based on patients' Lille scores. Seventy-eight percent (7/9) of the DUR-928 treated AH patients with Lille scores are classified as complete responders, 22% (2/9) are partial responders and none (0/9) were null responders. Percent of AH Patients in each Classification (data from separate studies) Lille Score Classification a 28-Day Survival Rate a Prednisolone (n=51)b UL (n=15)c DUR-928 (n=9)d 0.16 Complete Responder 91.1% 2.7% 49% 33% 78% 0.16-0.56 Partial Responder 79.4% 3.8% 43% 20% 22% 0.56 Null Responder 53.3%5.1% 8% 47% 0% P<0.0001 (a) P=0.002 (e) a) Mathurin, et. al., Gut 2011;60:255-260 b) Mathurin, "Selonsertib in Combination with Prednisolone for the Treatment of Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis: A Phase 2 Randomized Controlled Trial" presented at AASLD San Francisco November 2018. The table presents patients from the control group all treated with corticosteroids (prednisolone + placebo). Initial MELD scores in this study ranged from 19 to 24. c) See footnote 1 on page 1. d) See footnote 2 on page 1. e) See footnote 3 on page 1. Bilirubin is formed by the breakdown of red blood cells in the body. The level of total bilirubin in the blood is an indication of how the liver is functioning. Compared to baseline (n=10) , the median reduction in total bilirubin in the DUR-928 treated patients was 16% at Day 7 (n=9) and 41% at Day 28 (n=8) compared to 3% at Day 7 and 35% at Day 28 in the UL patients. The chart below shows the percent change in total bilirubin at Day 7 and 28 compared to baseline (Day 0) for both the separate UL (as historical control) and DUR-928 studies. Model of End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score is another common scoring system used to assess the severity and prognosis of AH patients. Patients with MELD scores of 11-19 are classified as having moderate AH and patients with MELD scores of 20-30 are classified as having severe AH. As with Lille scores, the lower the MELD score, the better the prognosis for the AH patient. In our study (shown in the chart below), the median reduction from baseline (Day 0, prior to treatment) (n=10) in MELD in the DUR-928 treated patients was 4% at Day 7 (n=9) and 21% at Day 28 (n=8) compared to a 4% increase at Day 7 and 6% reduction at Day 28 in the UL patients (as historical control). To date there is no statistical difference in the pharmacokinetic profiles between moderate and severe AH patients treated with DUR-928. There have been no drug-related adverse events in the DUR-928 treated patients to date. The data presented in this press release are preliminary and will be finalized upon completion of the trial. There can be no assurance that additional patients treated with DUR-928 will have similar results as those reported here. About the Ongoing DUR-928 Alcoholic Hepatitis Phase 2a Trial DURECT is conducting a Phase 2a clinical trial with intravenously administered DUR-928 in patients with AH. This is an open label, dose escalation (30, 90 and 150 mg), multi-center U.S. study that is enrolling patients with moderate and severe AH. Dose escalation may occur following review of safety and pharmacokinetic (PK) results of the prior dose level by a Dose Escalation Committee (DEC). The target number of patients for the study is 4 moderate and 4 severe patients per dose group. The objectives include assessment of safety, PK and pharmacodynamic (PD) signals, including liver chemistry and biomarkers. Conference Call and Webcast with Slides Wednesday, May 8th at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time/5:30 a.m. Pacific Time Toll Free: 888-882-4478 International: 323-794-2590 Conference ID: 7156796 Webcast: http://public.viavid.com/index.php?id=134476 A live audio webcast and data slide presentation will be available by accessing DURECT's homepage at www.durect.com and clicking "Investors." If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call and slide presentation will be archived on DURECT's website under "Event Calendar Past Events" in the "Investors" section. About DURECT Corporation DURECT is a biopharmaceutical company actively developing therapeutics based on its Epigenetic Regulator Program and proprietary drug delivery platforms. DUR928, a new chemical entity in Phase 2 development, is the lead candidate in DURECT's Epigenetic Regulator Program. An endogenous, orally bioavailable small molecule, DUR-928 has been shown in preclinical studies to play an important regulatory role in lipid homeostasis, inflammation, and cell survival. Human applications may include acute organ injury such as AH and acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic hepatic diseases such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. DURECT's advanced oral and injectable delivery technologies are designed to enable new indications and enhanced attributes for small-molecule and biologic drugs. Late stage product candidates in this category include POSIMIR (bupivacaine extended-release solution), an investigational locally-acting, non-opioid analgesic intended to provide up to 3 days of continuous pain relief after surgery, and ORADUR-Methylphenidate ER Capsules, approved in Taiwan as Methydur Sustained Release Capsules, where it is indicated for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition, for the assignment of certain patent rights, DURECT receives single digit sales-based earn-out payments from U.S. net sales of Indivior's PERSERIS (risperidone) drug for schizophrenia, which was commercially launched in February 2019. For more information, please visit www.durect.com. DURECT Forward-Looking Statement The statements in this press release regarding preliminary data from the ongoing Phase 2a trial of DUR-928 in patients with AH, including data regarding Lille scores, response rates and bilirubin and MELD reductions are forward looking statements to the extent that they suggest that they are predictive of results for the full trial or for the outcomes of the patients whose data is reported. This press release also includes additional forward looking statements, including regarding clinical trial plans for DUR-928, the potential use of DUR-928 to treat AH, AKI, chronic hepatic diseases such as NASH, and inflammatory skin disorders such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, as well as statements regarding the use of POSIMIR to treat post-surgical pain, the use of Methydur to treat ADHD, and potential earn-out payments from U.S. sales of PERSERIS. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that can cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, that the remainder of the Phase 2a clinical trial of DUR-928 in AH patients does not replicate the interim results reported here, the risk of delays in the enrollment of the ongoing clinical trials of DUR-928 in AH, NASH and psoriasis, potential adverse effects arising from the testing or use of DUR-928, the risk that the FDA may not approve the POSIMIR NDA, the risk that PERSERIS and Methydur will not have successful launches, our ability to avoid infringing patents held by other parties and secure and defend patents of our own patents, and our ability to manage and obtain capital to fund our operations and expenses. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in DURECT's Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 7, 2019 under the heading "Risk Factors." SOURCE DURECT Corporation Related Links http://www.durect.com "We are delighted to open our newest location today in this thriving Suffolk County shopping center. We look forward to becoming part of this rich community and to welcoming Long Island residents and visitors with our exceptional service and distinctive dining experience," says Salim Asrawi, Chief Operating Officer for the authentic Brazilian steakhouse brand. Texas de Brazil Churrascarias feature an open-grill kitchen, chef's feature table, a tantalizing salad area bursting with fresh hot and cold selections, an intimate lounge and a wine cellar. Texas de Brazil guests begin the rodizio-style meal with a visit to the expansive salad area where hot and cold side specialty dishes offer delicious variety. The selections include artisan breads, imported cheeses, fresh buffalo mozzarella, steamed asparagus with marmalade sauce, Brazilian hearts of palm, spicy shrimp salad, sushi, sauteed mushrooms, feijoada (black beans), jasmine rice, Moqueca (Brazilian coconut fish stew), lobster bisque and much more. No question -- it's a steakhouse even vegetarians love. Flame-roasted meats take center stage during the main course, each expertly prepared by a gaucho (server) who personally grills mouthwatering cuts over natural wood charcoal a Southern Brazil gaucho tradition passed down through generations. When guests flip a two-sided disc located at each seat from red to green, gauchos deliver and carve slow-roasted meats tableside to order. Selections range from the popular picanha (sirloin), lamb chops and filet mignon to leg of lamb, Parmesan-crusted pork loin, bacon wrapped chicken breast and more. When a break from the endless flow of meats is desired, guests simply turn discs back to red. This unique style of dining helps pace the experience to fit any timeframe from leisurely meals with friends and family to efficient meetings with business associates. Texas de Brazil offers a setting and menu that works perfectly for both large and small parties. Wine and churrasco go hand-in-hand, and an expertly curated wine list complements the varied menu with acclaimed varietals from California and South America vineyards and Texas de Brazil's own private label collection of six varietals exclusively bottled in Chile. The intimate lounge offers craft cocktails including the traditional Brazilian Caipirinha in a variety of flavors and a full selection of distilled spirits, beer and soft drinks including the Brazilian Guarana. Guests may enjoy Happy Hour Monday through Friday with special drink pricing and an appetizing bar menu. Desserts served a la carte satisfy those with a sweet tooth with selections including flan, deliciously rich papaya cream and Brazilian Cheesecake plus specialties such as pecan pie, carrot cake, and key lime pie. Service hours include: Happy Hour: Mon.-Fri. 4:30-6 p.m.; Dinner: Mon.-Thurs. 5 -9:30 p.m., Fri. 5-10 p.m., Sat. 3:30-10 p.m. and Sun. 3:30-9 p.m.; Lunch: Saturdays and Sundays between 12 noon 3:30 p.m. Regular adult meals, which include the meat and salad service, cost $47.99; $29.99 salad area only. During lunch service, guests receive a complimentary dessert and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages included in the price. When purchased with a full-price meal children 2 years and under dine complimentary, 3-5 years costs $5.00 and 6-12 years are 50% off adult meal price. Texas de Brazil Churrascaria is located at 201 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove, NY. For reservations, call 631-212-1115 or visit www.texasdebrazil.com. About Texas de Brazil Texas de Brazil is an authentic churrascaria featuring a continuous dining experience that blends the unique culture of Brazil, with the generous hospitality of Texas. The menu features a vast selection of grilled meats, a 50-item salad area, an award-winning wine list and a la carte dessert selections. Founded as a family-owned business in 1998, Texas de Brazil is now the largest Brazilian-American steakhouse brand in the world, with restaurants in 23 states and seven countries. Stay connected. Follow @texasdebrazil on Instagram and Twitter, and Texas de Brazil on Facebook. For information, visit http://www.texasdebrazil.com . SOURCE Texas de Brazil Related Links http://www.texasdebrazil.com The editors of DiversityInc magazine have named FCA US LLC to the magazine's 2019 list of "Noteworthy Companies for Diversity" and to the specialty list of "Top Companies for Veterans." This is the 11th year the Company has earned a place among the magazine's top 50 or most noteworthy companies for diversity since the benchmarks were established in 2001. It is the third consecutive year that FCA US earned a position on the magazine's top companies for veterans list, which was established in 2017. These annual benchmarks recognize the best diversity-management leaders in the U.S. Selected companies excel in such areas as hiring, retaining and promoting women, minorities, people with disabilities, LGBTQ employees and veterans, as well as programs that support supplier diversity, DiversityInc notes. More than 1,000 companies participated in the 2019 evaluation. "FCA US values the recognition and feedback we receive from influential organizations like DiversityInc," said Alisa Nagle, Head of Human Resources, FCA - North America. "Our Company has a longstanding, enterprise-wide commitment to diversity and inclusion and believes that we can create the necessary conditions that enable every employee to perform at their potential. This is how we will continue to deliver on our commitments and achieve desired business results." Examples of the Company's recent diversity accomplishments include: FCA US received Silver Status as a Michigan Friendly Employer by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency in recognition of recruitment strategies aimed at veterans The Company also supports various organizations that advance women's involvement in STEM professions, including Michigan Council of Women in Technology and Society of Women Engineers Internally, the Company supports seven business resource groups representing a range of affinity communities, including African-American, Hispanic, Asian, LGBTQ, veteran, Native American and women. These employee-directed groups are each assigned an executive sponsor, and individually and collectively pursue initiatives that enhance the FCA US work culture by focusing on career development of members, celebrating multicultural differences and bringing value to the Company and external communities through volunteer, charitable and strategic activities. Sustained Leadership Developing Diverse Suppliers FCA US continues its leadership in promoting and providing opportunities for diverse suppliers. Since 1983, the Company has purchased nearly $80 billion from minority-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned suppliers. FCA US spent $9 billion with more than 300 diverse suppliers in 2018. "FCA is and will always be a champion of a strong, diverse supplier network," said Scott Thiele, Head of Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, FCA - North America. "As we design, engineer and manufacture vehicles for today's customers, we continue to embrace the ingenuity that comes from having every perspective at the table." FCA US supplier diversity goals require that up to 8.5 percent of a tier-one supplier's buy be sourced to certified minority-owned businesses, three percent sourced with women-owned businesses and one percent sourced with veteran-owned businesses. The Company provides advocacy and consulting services to certified LGBT-owned and disable-owned suppliers. In 2018, FCA US received the following honors for its supplier diversity efforts: Best Tier II Program from the National Minority Supplier Diversity Council Corporation of the Year from the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Best-In-Class for Excellence in Supplier Diversity from the Great Lakes Women Business Council Top Corporation Gold from the Women's Business Enterprise National Council Advocate of the Year from the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce "Events of the past year have demonstrated that decisive ethical leadership is necessary to guide any organization to success," notes Luke Visconti, founder and CEO of DiversityInc. "Successful leaders hold themselves accountable to be culturally competent, a skill that requires constant learning. DiversityInc Top 50 and Noteworthy companies have a metrics-evidenced ability to treat people more fairly than other large companies. They also have a greater-than-average return for their shareholders." About DiversityInc The mission of DiversityInc is to bring education and clarity to the business benefits of diversity. The DiversityInc Top 50 and Noteworthy Companies for Diversity list began in 2001, when many corporations were beginning to understand the business value of diversity-management initiatives. The 2018 Top 50 and Noteworthy Companies for Diversity results will be featured on DiversityInc.com and in DiversityInc magazine. About FCA US LLC FCA US LLC is a North American automaker based in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It designs, manufactures, and sells or distributes vehicles under the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo brands, as well as the SRT performance designation. The Company also distributes Mopar and Alfa Romeo parts and accessories. FCA US is building upon the historic foundations of Chrysler Corp., established in 1925 by industry visionary Walter P. Chrysler and Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (F.I.A.T.), founded in Italy in 1899 by pioneering entrepreneurs, including Giovanni Agnelli. FCA US is a member of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. (FCA) family of companies. (NYSE: FCAU/ MTA: FCA). FCA is an international automotive group listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "FCAU" and on the Mercato Telematico Azionario under the symbol "FCA." Follow FCA US news and video on: Company blog: blog.fcanorthamerica.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FiatChrysler.NorthAmerica/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/FiatChrysler_NA Twitter: www.twitter.com/FiatChrysler_NA Twitter (Spanish): www.twitter.com/fcausespanol YouTube: www.youtube.com/fcanorthamerica Media website: media.fcanorthamerica.com For more information, please visit the FCA US LLC media site at http://media.fcanorthamerica.com. SOURCE FCA US LLC Related Links http://www.fcanorthamerica.com LAKEWOOD, Ohio, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading cloud solutions provider Onix and experts from Google are coming to Columbus May 22 to help business leaders and IT professionals learn about the benefits of cloud computing technology. Lakewood, Ohio-based Onix is hosting "Going Google in Columbus" May 22 at The Exchange at Bridge Park in Dublin, Ohio. This free event offers an afternoon of demos, information sharing and open dialogue about how cloud technology can help transform the way organizations and businesses in all industries operate. During this free event attendees can talk with Google and Onix cloud experts in a relaxed, informal setting. They also will see firsthand the benefits of Google products such as G Suite, Google Cloud Platform, Google Cloud Search, Google Maps Platform, Chrome OS and Chromebooks. There also will be time for networking with reps from Google and Onix, and other Ohio IT professionals. Onix received the 2018 Google Cloud North American Reseller Partner of the Year award in April for its achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem. The Details... What: Going Google in Columbus When: Wednesday, May 22, 3:30 - 6 p.m. Where: The Exchange at Bridge Park, 6520 Riverside Dr, Dublin, OH 43017 Check-in runs from 3:30 to 4 p.m., followed by a brief kickoff presentation. Register for this free event today. About Onix As a leading cloud solutions provider, Onix has elevated businesses to the next level with consulting services, infrastructure, collaboration, devices, enterprise search and geospatial technology. The company achieves this with solutions from such industry leaders as Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services (AWS), among others. Onix uses its ever-evolving expertise to solve clients' technology pain points across numerous business sectors. Onix backs its strategic planning and deployment with incomparable ongoing service, training and support. It also offers its own suite of standalone products to solve specific business challenges, including cloud billing and budget management software through OnSpend and digital accessibility of websites and online documents through its Equidox brand. Based in Lakewood, Ohio, near Cleveland, Onix also has Canadian offices in Toronto and Ottawa. Learn more at www.onixnet.com . Contact: Bryan Kokish Onix 216-513-2607 [email protected] SOURCE Onix Related Links www.onixnet.com Radioisotopes atoms displaying radioactivity can be used for both diagnosing and treating cancer. For diagnosis, radioisotopes that emit gamma rays are used because of their penetrating capability, while for treatment, isotopes emitting alpha particles, beta particles, or similar cytotoxic radiation are needed. (Cytotoxicity refers to the ability to kill or damage cells; in this case, cancer cells.) In recent years, an approach combining therapy and diagnosis both based on radioisotopes, called 'radiotheranostics', has gained significance. The key idea is that both the diagnostic and the therapeutic isotope can be brought to a tumor by attaching it to the same carrier molecule. Now, Kazuma Ogawa from Kanazawa University and colleagues have synthesized a radiotheranostic system with astatine (At-211) as the alpha-particle emitter and iodine (I-123) as the gamma-radiation source. A few types of molecules can be used as radioisotope carriers. Ogawa and colleagues were able to use a peptide (a biomolecule consisting of a chain of amino acids) as the carrier for both the astatine and the iodine isotope. Specifically, they worked with a peptide containing the so-called RGD sequence of amino acids. The RGD motif plays an important role in cell membrane binding; its cell-adhesive activity makes it a good component for designing molecules for targeting tumors. The theranostic carrier molecules were synthesized through a series of chemical reactions, the last step being a halogenation the replacement of a particular molecular component by a halogen. (Both astatine and iodine are halogens, having similar chemical properties.) After the successful synthesis of the At-211 and I-125 carrier molecules, the researchers tested their behavior in vivo. They simultaneously injected the two compounds in tumor-bearing mice, and looked at the biodistribution of the radioactive isotopes that is, in which parts of the body they occur, and how abundantly. The main finding was that the At-211- and I-125-labeled RGD peptides displayed biodistributions that were very similar, with a high accumulation in the tumor a prerequisite for operating as a theranostic system. (Another iodine isotope, I-123, is foreseen to be the diagnostic radioisotope, but I-125 has a much longer half-life, making it easier to work with in the present experiments.) The work of Ogawa and colleagues is an important step forward in the development of radiotheranostics. Quoting the scientists: "This method could be applicable to other peptides directly targeted to cancer. Moreover, future efforts should be focused on application of other radiohalogens as positron emitters for PET [positronelectron tomography] imaging ." Background Radioisotopes Radioactive atoms (radioisotopes) decay into other atoms, thereby emitting radiation. Different types of radiation occur, including alpha particle (helium nucleus) emission, and gamma ray (highly energetic electromagnetic radiation) emission. The former can be used for treatment alpha particles can destroy cancer cells while the latter can be used for imaging. The goal of combining both diagnosis and treatment in one approach based on radioisotopes has led to the concept of 'radiotheranostics'. The key property of a radiotheranostic system is that both radioisotopes target the same area in the body, a tumor in the case of cancer their biodistribution has to be the same. Kazuma Ogawa from Kanazawa University and colleagues have now developed a radiotheranostic system, with an astatine isotope as the alpha-particle source and an iodine isotope as the gamma-ray source. Importantly, both atoms are halogens; because they belong to the same group in the periodic table, they have similar chemical properties. Because of this chemical similarity, the scientists could use the same carrier molecule for both isotopes (the carrier molecule delivers the radioisotope to the targeted body part). Reference Kazuma Ogawa, Takuya Takeda, Kenji Mishiro, Atsushi Toyoshima, Kazuhiro Shiba, Takashi Yoshimura, Atsushi Shinohara, Seigo Kinuya, and Akira Odani. Radiotheranostics Coupled between an At-211-Labeled RGD Peptide and the Corresponding Radioiodine-Labeled RGD Peptide, ACS Omega 4, 45844591, 1 March 2019. DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.8b03679 URL: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.8b03679 About Kanazawa University As the leading comprehensive university on the Sea of Japan coast, Kanazawa University has contributed greatly to higher education and academic research in Japan since it was founded in 1949. The University has three colleges and 17 schools offering courses in subjects that include medicine, computer engineering, and humanities. The University is located on the coast of the Sea of Japan in Kanazawa a city rich in history and culture. The city of Kanazawa has a highly respected intellectual profile since the time of the fiefdom (1598-1867). Kanazawa University is divided into two main campuses: Kakuma and Takaramachi for its approximately 10,200 students including 600 from overseas. Kanazawa University website http://www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/e/ Further information Kanazawa University Kakuma, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1192, JAPAN E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +81-(76)-264-5963 SOURCE Kanazawa University "We are absolutely thrilled to break ground on this project, and in partnership with the La Macchia Group, to move forward with building a beautiful Landmark Credit Union branch in the Town of Brookfield," said Jay Magulski, President and Chief Executive Officer. "At Landmark we are well known for providing our members with trusted advice, great rates and low fees, and straightforward options for their everyday financial needs and long-term financial goals. This new branch location will allow us to even more directly deliver our brand of financial services to the surrounding community." The groundbreaking was attended by the President of the Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce, Carol White, Town of Brookfield Town Administrator, Tom Hagie, Immediate Past Board Chair of the Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce, Lori Choinski, members of the Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce and Landmark team members. Landmark Credit Union has $4.0 billion in assets and more than 650 employees, who serve over 340,000 members at 31 locations throughout Southern Wisconsin. To learn more about Landmark Credit Union, visit www.landmarkcu.com. SOURCE Landmark Credit Union Related Links http://www.landmarkcu.com SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- LunaPBC, founder of LunaDNA , the first community-owned genomic and health data platform, today announced the close of $4.6 million in new funding, bringing the company's total funding to date to $7.6 million. Key investors in this round include ARCH Venture Partners , Bain Capital Ventures , F-Prime Capital , Illumina Ventures , and Osage University Partners . The LunaDNA platform will be the first of its kind to reward individuals for sharing health data. The platform promises utility to pharmaceutical, insurance, and healthcare IT companies, as they improve health outcomes through the discovery of new therapies and a deeper understanding of patient outcomes. The funds will be used to accelerate research partnerships, onboard new partners such as Genetic Alliance , and expand platform development and marketing teams. In December 2018, LunaDNA received precedent-setting qualification from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to recognize an individual's genomic and health data as currency with which to acquire shares of ownership in the Company. This unique offering ensures members share in the value created from research performed on the platform. Members have the opportunity to advance research, receive shares in the Company commensurate with their contribution activity, and engage with utility apps and partners that align with their interests. LunaDNA's business model and core pillars are based on individual data control, transparency, and community, including protecting the anonymity of members. "It's the right time to reimagine the role and rights of individuals across the globe in driving health discovery with their life data. We are excited about LunaPBC's people-first model, which empowers individuals as valued partners not just research subjects; will create a deeper dataset with environment-specific and people-reported data; and has an intentional public benefit component to ensure long-standing impact in our communities," said Yumin Choi, partner, Bain Capital Ventures. Genetic Alliance, a non-profit dedicated to providing ordinary people with powerful tools to transform research, is a recently announced LunaPBC partner. They are leveraging LunaDNA's data stewardship model for their 45 disease communities representing more than 50,000 patients. LunaPBC's new funding is accelerating the integration of Genetic Alliance's Platform for Engaging Everyone Responsibly with LunaDNA, to provide individuals and communities with more resources to support their health management while maximizing research opportunities. ARCH Venture Partners , Bain Capital Ventures , F-Prime Capital , Illumina Ventures , and Osage University Partners all bring unique perspectives and business expertise to LunaPBC. ARCH Venture Partners, F-Prime Capital and Illumina Ventures are known for their impactful investments in health and science. Bain Capital Ventures brings remarkable consumer centricity and Osage University Partners are experts in building university relationships that support LunaPBC's member and discovery goals. "The timing is right to be changing the paradigm in data stewardship. There is a growing dissatisfaction with the use and exploitation of personal health data today. Our community ownership solution and its underlying technology provide individuals with transparency, control, and data dividends. LunaPBC's progress and growth is reflected in the continued hiring of top tier talent, on-boarding of new investors, expanding office space in La Jolla, CA, and growth in LunaDNA membership. New corporate advisors include Jason Paragas, Integral Health; Doug Harrison, founder of Harrison Group; and Chris Cabou, now retired general counsel at Illumina," said Bob Kain, CEO and co-founder, LunaPBC. LunaDNA currently accepts DNA files from vendors including 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, and FamilyTree DNA, as well as LunaDNA-generated health surveys. The acceptance of new information types will be accelerated as a result of funding and include whole genome and exome DNA files, RNA, microbiome, electronic health records (EHRs), fitness and activity trackers, smart devices, and many more. About LunaDNA LunaDNA is the first health and genomic data platform owned by its community of personal health information donors. LunaDNA empowers individuals to share their health data for medical research and the greater good of the community. As community owners in the LunaDNA platform, members share in the value created from health discoveries and medical breakthroughs. LunaDNA was created by the privately-owned Public Benefit Corporation, LunaPBC , founded in 2017 and headquartered in La Jolla, California. The LunaPBC team, investors, and advisors are renowned in the patient-advocacy, health, and science fields, including several former chief executives of Illumina, industry academics, and financial executives. For more information visit www.lunadna.com . Contact: Saramaya Penacho BAM Communications 208-610-3375 [email protected] SOURCE LunaDNA Related Links http://lunadna.com ST. PAUL, Minn., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Explore Minnesota, the state's tourism promotion office, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will kick off the 2019 fishing season this Saturday, May 11. An estimated 500,000 anglers will reel in a tradition that's one of the North Star State's unofficial holidays, flocking to Minnesota's many lakes and rivers to celebrate one of the largest fishing openers in the country. Fishing is a way of life in the True North. So much so that the Minnesota governor has honored the tradition since 1948 by hosting the annual Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener. Each year, the event is hosted by the current governor, Explore Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and a new host community each year. The 72nd annual Minnesota Governor's Fishing Opener will take place on Fountain Lake in Albert Lea, Minn., May 9 to 12. "In the beautiful Albert Lea area, Fountain Lake offers great fishing and travel opportunities," said Gov. Walz. "I thank the community for hosting this 72nd annual Minnesota tradition, and look forward to opening this year's summer fishing season." Minnesota offers world-class fishing thanks to its diverse bodies of water, and the moniker "Land of 10,000 Lakes" only hints at the variety. In fact, the state has 11,842 lakes, 69,000 miles of rivers and streams, and more shoreline than California, Florida and Hawaii combined. From America's greatest Mississippi River, to the Great Lake Superior and thousands more fishing destinations across the state, anglers can reel in several species. "Our lakes and rivers are the envy of the nation, making Minnesota a premier destination for fishing, fun and memories on the water. From novice to elite anglers, it's easy to include fishing as part of any Minnesota vacation," said John Edman, director of Explore Minnesota. Minnesota's fishing opener is the start of the summer travel season, which offers many recreational opportunities throughout the state. Visit exploreminnesota.com to learn more, or get inspired using statewide travel hashtag #OnlyinMN and #MNGFO2019. About Explore Minnesota As the state's tourism promotion office, Explore Minnesota works to inspire consumers and facilitate travel to and within Minnesota. Tourism is a $15.3 billion industry in Minnesota, a key sector of the state's economy. Minnesota welcomes 73 million travelers annually. SOURCE Explore Minnesota Related Links http://www.exploreminnesota.com MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Economics University (NEU) in Vietnam upgraded its University Library Wi-Fi network to support an expanding e-learning initiative financed in part by a $155M USD World Bank International Development Association program. After an exhaustive vetting process, Everest Networks' access points (AP) were selected for the installation as partner HD Telecom of North America Inc. installed 30 High Density Wi-Fi APs to support an estimated 600,000 students with access to over 27,000 lectures and e-learning resources in the digital library. "We are thrilled to be working with Everest as their Wi-Fi solution provides the fastest wireless and showed superior performance in our trials. This was a critical issue to solve for International School of Management and Economics (ISME) of National Economics University as wireless is the backbone of our strategic e-learning initiative," said Dean of the ISME Dr. Dong Xuan Dam. "Everest and their local partner HD Telecom, made the entire process really easy and our students and lecturers are in for a real treat." National Economics University chose Everest Networks' APs to cover their 175,000 sq.ft. library and ISME floor due to its ability to handle increasing bandwidths to support their growing demand for e-learning programs. Phase 1 of the installation maximized coverage and speed while only requiring 28 High-Density Indoor APs (1004WRi and 1002Oi) and 2 High-Density Outdoor APs (1004WRe), which is fewer APs than the industry standard for an installation of this size. HD Telecom of North America Inc. was able to complete the installation in half the time, resulting in less disruption at the facility and a significant cost savings. "The library at NEU is a critical part of the infrastructure of the university but had added significance because of the e-learning initiative Vietnam is spearheading thanks to the World Bank," said Mr. Vincent Pham, CEO at HD Telecom Inc. "Everest is the most recent and innovative WLAN technology company to emerge from Silicon Valley. Providing the University with the best Wi-Fi service was clearly something we were proud to do. Everest, having recognized early on the growing connectivity demands and data streaming needs of people today, designed their products and systems to meet the demand we are now seeing in many of our customers' sites. With so many cloud service applications driving the data frenzy we see on smartphones, it's clear a new approach to WLAN is needed. We feel Everest's Access Points are a perfect match for our customer, being able to provide the required coverage with fewer APs, deliver the fastest throughput, and reduce the total system cost." High-Density APs are the industry's response to the ever-connected consumer with multiple devices. As more facilities evaluate Everest Networks WLAN system, Everest is fast becoming the industry's gold standard for quality Wi-Fi. Featuring four 802.11 ac Wave 2 compliant radios in each of their High-Density APs, Everest triples the wireless throughput compared to conventional enterprise-class offerings. Everest also pairs radio resources with patented, highly directional, AI-controlled SpotLight antenna systems, creating ideal conditions for effective MIMO and MU-MIMO communications and delivering high user speed. To learn more about Everest Networks solutions visit www.EverestNetworks.com International Development Association (IDA): The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors approved today US$155 million in financing to strengthen the research, teaching, and institutional capacity of three autonomous universities and improve the management of Vietnam's higher education system. More than 150,000 students and 3,900 members of faculty will benefit from the investments for Vietnam's National University of Agriculture, the University of Science and Technology in Hanoi, and the Industry University of Ho Chi Minh City. Some 600,000 students and 27,000 lecturers from other higher education institutions will also broaden their learning resources by gaining access to a digital library at the National Economics University. http://www.worldbank.org/vietnam About Everest Networks: Venture-funded Everest Networks launched their industry leading High-Density (HD) Wi-Fi solution in 2017 and achieved outstanding success in their first year by securing key reference sites such as Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles. Everest Networks' solution addresses today's most pressing HD issues such as; high user engagement, high network capacity, and fast throughput, whilst delivering a lower total cost of ownership (TCO). This makes Everest Networks Wi-Fi the platform of choice for venues such as stadiums, arenas, convention centers, shopping malls, transport hubs, auditoriums, campuses, and smart cities. www.everestnetworks.com About HD Telecom: TELECOMMUNICATION SOLUTION AND SERVICE PROVIDER HD Telecom lnc. is an Internet, phone, TV, and security solution provider, specializing in VOIP phone systems, High Speed Internet services, IPTV service, and cutting-edge Security products and solutions. HD Telecom Inc. also provides High Density Wi-Fi solutions for hospitality and education customers, and events , committing to deliver each customers' satisfaction. https://www.hdtelecom.ca/bhome/ For more information, please contact Simon Wright, VP Marketing, at [email protected] SOURCE Everest Networks Related Links https://www.everestnetworks.com LAVAL, QC and CAMBRIDGE, United Kingdom, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Prometic Life Sciences Inc. (TSX: PLI) (OTCQX: PFSCF) ("Prometic" or "Corporation") is pleased to announce today a new management structure to provide leadership to the Corporation and the appointment of Dr. Gary Bridger, Mr. Timothy Wach and Mr. Neil Klompas to the Board of Directors. All three of these individuals will be included as nominees for election to the Board of Directors by shareholders at the upcoming Annual General and Special Meeting of the shareholders ("AGM") scheduled to take place in Montreal, Quebec, Canada on June 19, 2019. Mr. David John Jeans and Ms. Louise Menard have stepped down from the Board after having respectively served as Directors since 2017 and 2009. Also, Mr. Bruce Wendel, Chief Business Development Officer, has left the Corporation. "On behalf of the entire organization, it is a pleasure to welcome Gary, Tim and Neil onto Prometic's Board of Directors, and we look forward to their strategic insight and guidance as we pursue our strategy to build a successful and focused global life sciences company", stated Board Chair, Mr. Stefan Clulow. "I also wish to thank Mr. Jeans and Ms. Menard for their services to the Board and Mr. Wendel for his services to the Corporation as a former Director and senior executive officer". In addition to Mr. Galbraith, the newly-appointed CEO, the Corporation's leadership team will include: Mr. Martin Leclerc , Chief Talent Officer , Chief Talent Officer Dr. John Moran , Chief Medical Officer , Chief Medical Officer Dr. Steven J. Burton , President of Prometic Bioseparations Ltd , President of Prometic Bioseparations Ltd Mr. Patrick Sartore , Chief Operating Officer, North America and Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary , Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary Mr. Bruce Pritchard , Chief Operating Officer, International and Chief Financial Officer Mr. Galbraith, Prometic's CEO, stated "I am pleased to confirm my leadership team and look forward to working with them to make progress with both our corporate goals for 2019 and our long-term vision for Prometic. I will retain primary responsibility for ongoing business and corporate development activities and use my 30+ years of life sciences business experience to complete the necessary partnerships and collaborations that will be necessary for our success". About Prometic's newly appointed members of the Board of Directors Dr. Gary Bridger Dr. Gary Bridger has served as a member of the board of directors of X4 Pharmaceuticals, Inc. since October 2018. From February 2015 to December 2017, Dr. Bridger served as a consultant to Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, where he previously served as the Executive Vice President of Research and Development from January 2013 to February 2015. From October 2013 to October 2015, Dr. Bridger served as a Managing Director at Five Corners Capital Inc. From June 2010 to June 2012, Dr. Bridger served as a venture partner at Venture West Capital Management, a venture capital firm. From November 2006 to December 2007, Dr. Bridger served as Senior Vice President of Research and Development of Genzyme Corporation, a biotechnology company, which was acquired by Sanofi, S.A. In June 1996, Dr. Bridger co-founded AnorMED Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, and was its Vice President of Research and Development and Chief Scientific Officer from 2000 until its acquisition by Genzyme in November 2006. Dr. Bridger has served on the board of directors of Aquinox Pharmaceuticals, Inc. since 2013. Dr. Bridger previously served on the board of directors of Alder BioPharmaceuticals, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, from 2013 to 2016. Dr. Bridger serves on the scientific advisory board of Alectos Therapeutics Inc., a biopharmaceutical company. Dr. Bridger holds a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology. Mr. Neil A. Klompas Mr. Neil A. Klompas joined Zymeworks Inc. in March 2007 where he currently serves as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Zymeworks, he worked with KPMG LLP in Canada and the United States, most recently (from 2005 to 2007) with KPMG's Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology and Medical Device M&A Transaction Services practice in Princeton, New Jersey, where he advised on transactions including mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and strategic alliances. Prior to that, from 2000 to 2005 Mr. Klompas worked with KPMG's Canadian Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals practice. Mr. Klompas is a Chartered Professional Accountant and is a member of Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia. Mr. Klompas also holds a degree in Microbiology & Immunology from the University of British Columbia. He serves on the faculty advisory board for Biotechnology and Chemistry for Camosun College and as a member of the board of directors of Ovensa Inc., a private biotechnology company. Mr. Timothy Wach Mr. Timothy Wach is Managing Director and Board Member of Taxand since January 2015. Mr. Wach is recognised as a leading Canadian lawyer in taxation and frequently publishes papers for research organisations and academic purposes. In 1989, Mr. Wach joined Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP, as an associate and was a partner from 1992 to 2014, where he specialised in mergers, acquisitions, financings and international tax with focus on the private equity and energy sectors. While a partner of Gowlings, Mr. Wach was on the Gowlings Executive Committee and served as leader of the Firm's National Tax Practice Group and of the Toronto Tax Practice Group. Mr. Wach also has extensive experience in government relations and tax policy, having twice served in the Tax Policy Branch of the Canadian Department of Finance in Ottawa, most recently as Director of Legislative Development and Chief Legislative Counsel from 2009 to 2011. In that role, he chaired the Interdepartmental Legislation Review Committee, the committee responsible for the preparation of Canada's federal income tax legislation for submission to Parliament. He also appeared regularly as a witness on behalf of the Department of Finance before the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance and the Senate Standing Committee on National Finance when those committees considered tax policy matters. About Prometic Life Sciences Inc. Prometic (www.prometic.com) is a biopharmaceutical corporation with two drug discovery platforms focusing on unmet medical needs. The first platform (small molecule therapeutics) has a pipeline of product candidates which leverage the discovery of the linked role of two receptors involved in the regulation of the healing process. Prometic has demonstrated that the "up-regulation" of receptor GPR40 concomitant with the "down-regulation" of receptor GPR84 promotes the normal healing process as opposed to promoting the fibrotic process. Prometic's drug candidates have a dual mode-of-action as agonists ("stimulators") of GPR40 and antagonists ("inhibitors") of GPR84. 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 Alstrom syndrome. 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. 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) with R&D facilities in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States, manufacturing facilities in Canada and the Isle of Man and corporate and business development activities in Canada, the United States, 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. 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, 2018, 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. SOURCE ProMetic Life Sciences Inc. Related Links http://www.prometic.com MORTON GROVE, Ill., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- RegisTechnologies, Inc. reports the successful outcome of its routine U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) inspection, which found no objectionable findings, meaning no Form 483 observations were issued. This marks the fourth consecutive, impeccable inspection for Regis and demonstrates its commitment to a standard of excellence in quality and compliance in the pharmaceutical industry. Regis Technologies' chemists review reports following Current Good Manufacturing Practices. "Each and every employee plays a very important role in bringing new medicines to market...Each record is an example of how their work is helping keep Regis products safe." The inspection was a routine Quality Systems inspection to support Regis' FDA registration and ongoing manufacture of clinical and commercial active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The four-day, onsite inspection resulted in an NAI (No Action Indicated) classification, which is the best that can be attained. FDA investigators use Form 483 to record observations of non-compliance with the agency's Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP) standards. Receiving no Form 483 observations is uncommon, even in model facilities. For example, in the 2017 fiscal year, the FDA issued over 5,000 483s. Regis' last inspection from April 2019 designates eight years of exemplary compliance, which is of the utmost importance to Regis. Louis Glunz IV, President and CEO of Regis, commented on this latest successful FDA inspection by saying "Building CGMP-level quality into Regis' products is critically important to both our business and customers because our commitment to quality is, ultimately, what protects the patient. Active pharmaceutical ingredients are a cornerstone of drug product safety and efficacy. The process for making APIs is very complicated, and Regis works tirelessly to ensure CGMP is built into every step of the process. Keeping open, collaborative communications allows Regis to overcome these challenges and build trusting and collaborative relationships with our customers and the FDA." Following FDA and GMP regulations is imperative for the wellbeing of potential patients receiving drug products containing Regis-made active pharmaceutical ingredients. A safe product leads to a safe patient, and so maintaining high standards is essential. Regis is continuously improving its systems via internal audits, consultation, training and customers audits. This sentiment is followed loyally by every member of the company. Its Quality Assurance department trains all personnel on safety, GMP, and Right-to-Know policies. Regis' Director of Quality, Dan Weissmueller, stated, "Each and every employee plays a very important role in bringing new medicines to market. Over the course of the inspection, countless documents were sampled and reviewed for CGMP. Each record is an example of how their work is helping keep Regis products safe." In its 80,000 square foot facility near Chicago, Regis provides synthesis, analytical and manufacturing services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. It works with customers to advance high-value intermediates and APIs from initial process development and scale-up through final validation and commercial manufacturing. Regis offers pharmaceutical regulatory support services as well as access to its proprietary innovative chromatography products and services. Regis' advanced technologies are complemented by its deep expertise gained from over 60 years of scientific excellence, all of which help Regis expedite drugs to market. To learn more about Regis's custom manufacturing and development services, visit registech.com. ABOUT REGIS TECHNOLOGIES: Regis Technologies, Inc. partners with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to help expedite their drug candidates to market. Regis has the necessary technical and operational capabilities to fully support its clients' preclinical and clinical API needs. We offer a full range of services to support the development of our clients' lead molecules through commercialization, including process research and development, analytical and stability services, GMP API manufacturing and preparative chromatographic separations. With extensive organic expertise and collegiate collaborations, we also offer an innovative line of proprietary chromatography products sold throughout the world. Regis is privately owned and operated and has been in business in the Chicago area since 1956. Contact Information: Kristine Biederer, Marketing & Communications Manager Regis Technologies, Inc. 847-679-6000, ext. 675 [email protected] www.registech.com Related Files Regis Custom Pharma CGMP Custom Manufacturing.pdf Related Images regis-technologies-chemists-follow.jpg Regis Technologies' Chemists follow CGMP Regis Technologies' chemists review reports following Current Good Manufacturing Practices. "Each and every employee plays a very important role in bringing new medicines to market...Each record is an example of how their work is helping keep Regis products safe." regis-technologies-process-chemists.jpg Regis Technologies Process Chemists Regis Technologies provides contract development and manufacturing services from initial process development and scale-up through final validation and commercial manufacturing. Related Links Regis Custom Pharma Services Regis' Custom API Manufacturing Related Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lf1TxBCemz4 SOURCE Regis Technologies Related Links http://www.registech.com BEND, Ore., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Lora DiCarlo, the company dedicated to bringing human-like robotics to sex, announced today an additional $2 million in financing from both new and existing investors led by the Oregon Opportunity Zone Limited Partnership ("OOZLP"). Funds will go to the commercialization of Ose, the only product designed for hands-free blended orgasms. Using advanced patent-pending micro-robotics, Ose mimics the sensations of a human mouth, tongue, and fingers, for an experience that feels remarkably like a real partner. Under the IRS program, an Opportunity Zone is an economically-distressed community where new investments, under certain conditions, may be eligible for preferential tax treatment. Lora DiCarlo investors recognize both the profit potential and tax benefits of investing in an Opportunity Zone and have decided to invest in the company through the Oregon Opportunity Zone fund. "I invested because Lora DiCarlo is positioned at the intersection of sexual health research and cutting-edge robotic technology creating new products that help everyone have more satisfying sexual interactions," said new Lora DiCarlo investor Richard Kado, President of Kado Family Inc. "Additionally, Lora DiCarlo's commitment to low-income and underserved communities demonstrates an exceptional level of corporate social responsibility while also providing meaningful tax advantages for investors." Lora DiCarlo has prioritized its social mission adjacent to its profitability. The company has carefully chosen to locate in Opportunity Zones in both Corvallis and Bend, Oregon to spur economic development and job creation in these historically distressed communities. Lora DiCarlo has created 14 new full-time positions within these zones in the last year. The company's research and development lab is located near Oregon State University's College of Engineering in an Opportunity Zone in downtown Corvallis, while its headquarters are in an Opportunity Zone in Bend. Lora DiCarlo has raised a total of $3.2 million to date. The latest funding round demonstrates that international investors see the profit potential for new technology at the intersection of sexual health wellness and thoughtfully engineered robotics. "I am pleased and honored to have a group of investors that prioritize social responsibility along with profit," said Lora Haddock, Founder and CEO of Lora DiCarlo. "Our investors represent forward-thinking individuals and organizations that share our vision that the thoughtful application of technology can improve sexual health for millions. Additionally, our investors support our mission of promoting gender equity and making societal changes that benefit everyone." Starting with Ose, Lora DiCarlo intends to disrupt this traditionally male-dominated industry, raising the bar to introduce the next level of pleasure tech. About Lora DiCarlo Located in Bend, Oregon, Lora DiCarlo is a gender-inclusive, sex-positive company tackling the no longer "taboo" topic of vagina-specific orgasms. Using advanced microrobotic technology engineered in a leading university laboratory, Lora DiCarlo has developed its first product, Ose, set to hit the market in the third quarter of 2019. Lora DiCarlo was founded by a woman with years of experience in healthcare, a special interest in female physiology, and a dream of eradicating social and sexual stigmas. For more information on Lora DiCarlo visit: www.loradicarlo.com SOURCE Lora DiCarlo SAN JOSE, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Watch marketplace SOMA announced today that its freemium model will convert to a paid subscription for merchants later this year. "SOMA offers merchants several important value propositions in one place," notes co-founder Jukka Hilmola, "and a paid-subscription model will allow us to monetize more rapidly." For watch brands with merchant accounts, SOMA will convert from free to paid service in three stages. For the first phase, which will end later this year, early brand partners will be "grandfathered" in for life with a free SOMA account. For the second phasethe timing of which is yet to be announcedbrands will receive a free grace period after which they will pay the SOMA subscription cost. Finally, SOMA will be 100% paid. For individual SOMA users, SOMA has no plans to leave the "freemium" model. Watch consumers can subscribe, create an account, interact, buy, and sell for freethough they will have the option to upgrade for more enhanced (paid) functionality and to purchase value-added features in the future. SOMA's blockchain-based app addresses three distinct needs of the watch community: community interaction, transactions, and a tracking system that stores the history and identity of a watch. "With this three-in-one value proposition," notes Jacob Andra, another co-founder, "the whole really does become more than the sum of its parts." Watch buyers can discover new brands, share their discoveries, and interact a la traditional social media networks. They can also transact within the same user interface where they're interacting. Lastly, the "digital watch identity" component occurs behind the scenes while users interact and transact. SOMA has considerable forward momentum. The company recently received a 1.1 million seed funding round, including funding from the Finnish government. As of now, they have signed more than 60 watch brands to participate, and they expect to have more than 100 by the launch of their watch community in late June. SOMA begins with a beta launch of 100 users who will test the app and submit feedbackas well as enjoy a variety of exclusive discounts and limited "SOMA edition" watches from participating brands. Currently, SOMA is accepting applications for users to participate in this initial "Cohort 1." For more information, press only: Jacob Andra +1 801 631 2927 [email protected] https://soma.co SOURCE SOMA Related Links https://soma.co On April 23, 2019, the two-year-old woke up early in the morning and wandered off while under the care of his eighteen-year-old sister who had been watching him while their parents were at work. Upon waking up and realizing he was missing; she and neighbors began a search which ended when the boy was found floating in the nearby retention pond. After a neighbor attempted CPR, the victim was transported to Ed Fraser Memorial Hospital in Macclenny where he was later pronounced dead. The retention pond is located on the property of Macclenny Cycle & Marine, owned by Stephen Clarence Williams Jr. According to court documents, the property owner did not have proper fencing as required by building permits. Franklin's parents, Misty Williams and Timothy Bouknight, represented by the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine, have filed a lawsuit against the corporation and its owner. "This tragedy was preventable," said attorney Glen Levine, Esq. "Our clients are devastated, and we are working hard to ensure that those at fault take responsibility." According to court documents, on January 13, 2016, Williams Jr. applied to the Sr. Johns River Water Management District for a permit for the construction of the retention pond to be used for stormwater treatment. Plans submitted to the district detailed the construction of a six-foot fence with a self-latching gate. A permit for construction was issued two weeks later on January 27th. Williams Jr. subsequently constructed the retention pond which was completed in March 2017. However, the property owner failed to install the fence as detailed in the construction plans. Parker's family alleges the corporation constructed the pond with an unreasonably dangerous slope and failed to provide signage warning of the pond's depth. They also allege the property knew or should have known the risk that the unfenced pond posed to the public's health and safety, and failure to comply with the building permit resulted in the toddler's death. In 2000, a Florida family won a settlement against property owners for the wrongful death of their toddler who drowned in a retention pool that also lacked adequate fencing. ABOUT THE LAW OFFICES OF ANIDJAR & LEVINE: The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine, P.A. brings years of experience successfully representing Florida clients in personal injury and criminal defense law. With offices in Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Jacksonville and West Palm Beach, their team consists of experienced lawyers, investigators, and medical/legal support experts to achieve the optimal results for their clients. Founded by Marc Anidjar and Glen B. Levine, the company stands by its mission to help those in their community and defend their rights.For more information, please visit www.anidjarlevine.com. SOURCE Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine Related Links http://www.anidjarlevine.com HOUSTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has named eight researchers to the fourth annual class of Andrew Sabin Family Fellows. Each researcher will receive $100,000 in funding over two years thanks to a $30 million endowment established by the Andrew Sabin Family Foundation, based in East Hampton, New York. At a luncheon today, the 2019 fellows had the opportunity to thank their benefactor, Andrew Sabin, a member of the MD Anderson Cancer Center Board of Visitors. Members of the 2016, 2017 and 2018 classes of Sabin Family Fellows and faculty mentors also attended. "I look forward each year to meeting the new class of Sabin Family Fellows and experiencing their enthusiasm for unlocking the mysteries of cancer," said Sabin. "My family and I are honored to help launch eight more long and illustrious careers dedicated to advancing MD Anderson's mission to end cancer." The Andrew Sabin Family Fellowship Program aims to encourage creativity, innovation and impactful cancer research in the categories of basic science, clinical, physician-scientist, and population and quantitative science. Fellows named in 2018 already have made key discoveries in bladder, pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers as well as leukemia and glioblastoma. "The ability to recruit and retain the highest caliber of young researchers is critical to the future of our institution," said Peter WT Pisters, M.D., president of MD Anderson. "Sabin Fellowships are among our most valuable tools in helping to recognize and reward tomorrow's cancer care leaders. I am confident that the foundation's generosity and vision will have a significant impact on these early career scientists and their efforts to help patients survive this terrible disease." The 2019 awardees and their areas of focus are: Lauren Averett Byers, M.D., associate professor, Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology: the first CAR-T therapy for small cell lung cancer, in the institution's first solid tumor CAR-T cell therapy trial Florencia McAllister, M.D., assistant professor, Clinical Cancer Prevention: study of the intra-tumoral bacteria detected in pancreatic cancer long-term and the use of fecal microbial transplants to improve therapy outcomes. Jose Alejandro Rauh-Hain, M.D., M.P.H., assistant professor, Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine: improving gynecological genetic testing and risk-reduction interventions in underserved populations Grace Li Smith, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., assistant professor, Radiation Oncology: financial toxicity among patients treated with short-course versus standard adjuvant radiation for early stage breast cancer Ishwaria Mohan Subbiah, M.D., M.S., assistant professor, Palliative, Rehabilitation and Integrative Medicine: investigating a personalized proactive technology-enhanced symptom management strategy to provide holistic care for patients on Phase I clinical trials Andrea Viale, M.D., assistant professor, Genomic Medicine: the effects of transient inflammation and the role of epithelial memory during the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma Linghua Wang, Ph.D., assistant professor, Genomic Medicine: TIM-3 as a potential target for treating peritoneal carcinomatosis in patients with advanced gastric cancer Yinghong Wang, M.D., Ph.D., M.S., assistant professor, Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition: fecal microbiota transplantation to manage immune-mediated colitis, which can be a devastating side effect of cancer immunotherapy About MD Anderson The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston ranks as one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. The institution's sole mission is to end cancer for patients and their families around the world. MD Anderson is one of only 49 comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). MD Anderson is ranked No.1 for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report's "Best Hospitals" survey. It has ranked as one of the nation's top two hospitals for cancer care since the survey began in 1990, and has ranked first 14 times in the last 17 years. MD Anderson receives a cancer center support grant from the NCI of the National Institutes of Health (P30 CA016672). www.mdanderson.org/newsroom SOURCE The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Related Links http://www.mdanderson.org DUBLIN, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Management Consulting & Business Advisory Services in South Africa 2019" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. South Africa's management consulting and business advisory industry has been under growing pressure since 2017. The industry has been rocked by revelations that numerous consulting firms, including several global market leaders, have facilitated and/or been complicit in irregular activities and misdeeds, including fraud, state capture and corruption. Revelations that consultants from several multinational firms were found to be complicit have rocked the industry. The consequences of these developments, consulting expenditure cutbacks and economic conditions have affected the traditionally lucrative industry. However, some mid-tier and boutique management consultancies appear to be well positioned to capitalise on the crisis. Mounting Pressure: National Treasury has issued directives to government departments and state-owned entities to reduce their reliance on the use of consultants, a practice which was previously widespread. At the same time, conventional consulting has been fundamentally changed by technology-driven disruption, requiring firms to incorporate digital tools to remain competitive. Technological advances also present various opportunities to the sector. The report on Management Consulting and Business Advisory Services describes the industry, recent developments and the factors influencing the sector's performance. It includes comprehensive profiles of 46 firms including multinational firms operating in South Africa such as McKinsey and Bain, both of which were implicated in state capture revelations. It includes profiles on the major auditing and advisory firms such as Deloitte, PwC, EY and KPMG and specialist firms such as Hoorah Digital. Key Topics Covered: 1. Introduction 2. Description Of The Industry 2.1. Value Chain 2.2. Geographic Position 3. Size Of The Industry 4. State Of The Industry 4.1. Local 4.1.1. Corporate Actions 4.1.2. Regulations 4.1.3. Enterprise Development And Social Economic Development 4.2. Continental 4.3. International 5. Influencing Factors 5.1. Government Interventions 5.2. Economic Environment 5.3. Labour 5.4. Operating Costs 5.5. Technology, Research And Development (R&D) And Innovation 5.6. Environmental Concerns 6. Competition 6.1. Barriers To Entry 7. Swot Analysis 8. Outlook 9. Industry Associations 10. References Companies Mentioned A T Kearney (Pty) Ltd Accenture ( South Africa ) (Pty) Ltd ) (Pty) Ltd Adept Advisory (Pty) Ltd Alexander Proudfoot South Africa (Pty) Ltd (Pty) Ltd AYO Technology Solutions Ltd Bain and Company South Africa Inc BDO South Africa Inc Beesa Business Services (Pty) Ltd Boston Consulting Group RSA (Pty) Ltd (The) Business Partners Ltd Butterfly Effect Intelligence (Pty) Ltd Columinate (Pty) Ltd Dalberg Consulting CC Datacomb (Pty) Ltd DecisionInc (Pty) Ltd Deloitte South Africa Ernst and Young Advisory Services (Pty) Ltd Eton Group (Pty) Ltd (The) FeverTreeConsulting (Pty) Ltd Franchise Firm (Pty) Ltd (The) Free State Development Corporation Frost and Sullivan South Africa (Pty) Ltd (Pty) Ltd FTI Consulting South Africa (Pty) Ltd Gauteng Growth and Development Agency SOC Ltd Generation of Leaders Discovered Consulting (Pty) Ltd Hoorah Digital (Pty) Ltd IQ Business (Pty) Ltd IQVIA Solutions (Pty) Ltd Juran Consulting and Training SA (Pty) Ltd Kaiser International (Pty) Ltd Korn Ferry (Pty) Ltd (Pty) Ltd KPMG Services (Pty) Ltd Kreston SA (Pty) Ltd ManpowerGroup SA (Pty) Ltd McKinsey and Company Africa (Pty) Ltd Moore Stephens South Africa (Pty) Ltd Motlanalo Chartered Accountants and Auditors Inc NMG C and A Holdings (SA) (Pty) Ltd PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc Renaicance Consultants CC Rifle-Shot Performance Holdings (Pty) Ltd SizweNtsalubaGobodo Grant Thornton Inc Strategic Simulation Solutions BTS Africa (Pty) Ltd Tata Consultancy Services ( South Africa ) (Pty) Ltd ) (Pty) Ltd Trade and Investment KwaZulu-Natal Tramonto Trading (Pty) Ltd For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/6tfq0z About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. 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 NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Today a joint venture led by SHVO, Bilgili Group and Deutsche Finance announced the purchase of 9200 Wilshire Boulevard, a fully entitled residential and retail development site adjacent to the prestigious Beverly Hills "Golden Triangle." The group purchased the site for $130 million from New Pacific Realty Corp. The project, which will elevate the standard of luxury living in the area, is one of the only active new developments of its kind in Beverly Hills. 9200 Wilshire will feature 54 luxury residences in a sleek, mid-rise structure. The seven-story building will showcase a striking glass exterior and a suite of exclusive amenities, including a rooftop pool with sprawling vistas of the cityscape below. The building will also include approximately 6,650 feet of retail space wrapping a central courtyard fronting Wilshire. The approved, 307,397-square-foot project will provide future residents with an exclusive living experience in one of the world's most sought-after neighborhoods. The joint venture is led by developers SHVO and Bilgili Group, together with institutional real estate funds managed by Deutsche Finance. The joint venture's investors include Bayerische Versorgungskammer (BVK), one of the largest institutional investors in Germany and top ten pension funds in Europe. Lotus Capital Partners arranged a $51 million acquisition loan from California based Acore Capital. This is the third joint venture between SHVO, Bilgili Group and Deutsche Finance. Earlier this year, the group purchased the historic Raleigh Hotel property in Miami, and in 2018, they acquired the office portion of 685 Fifth Avenue, which is now being converted into luxury Mandarin Oriental Residences. "We are thrilled to add 9200 Wilshire to our portfolio of luxury assets in prime locations," said Michael Shvo, Chairman of SHVO. "Our new residential concept will offer the highest quality of living and amenities, providing extreme value for those seeking something truly extraordinary in Beverly Hills." "I am constantly striving to grow my portfolio with unique assets. As I diversify internationally with one-of-kind assets such as the Raleigh in Miami and the Mandarin Oriental Residences in New York, I am thrilled add 9200 Wilshire to my collection," said Serdar Bilgili, Chairman of Bilgili Group." "We are focused on investing in prime sites in key markets with the best teams. There is enormous demand in Beverly Hills for this type of luxury offering, but extremely limited supply. We are excited to partner with SHVO and Bilgili Group to bring Beverly Hills a new, one-of-a-kind luxury residential offer with 9200 Wilshire," said Jason Lucas, Managing Partner of Deutsche Finance. About SHVO SHVO brings an atelier-like experience to real estate development, fueled by a discerning eye for design excellence and a passion for quality in every detail. With more than $5 billion under development, SHVO is dedicated to creating extreme value by bringing innovative concepts to life in premier locations for exclusive clientele. Founded in 2004, SHVO has been involved in the envisioning, planning, sales and marketing of more than $15 billion of prime real estate, spanning more than 80 million square feet. SHVO projects have pioneered innovations that continue to be emulated and set new standards throughout the world. Based in New York City, SHVO was founded in 2004 by Michael Shvo, who remains its Chairman and CEO. About Bilgili Group Bilgili Group is a leading real estate focused Turkish conglomerate and BLG Capital is its independently managed private equity real estate arm founded in 2011. BLG Capital's investment and asset management team has raised and invested more than $500 million equity in Turkey since 2011 and the two firms have over $3 billion of assets under management combined. The firms have a long track record in real estate investments in different asset classes such as hospitality, student housing, city-center mixed-use projects, office, high end residential and other commercial properties. Backed by its institutional investor base, the companies aim to integrate new and unique concepts into the markets they operate in and also execute strategic partnerships with leading global brands such as Marriott, Soho House, The Peninsula, Aman Resorts and Dogus Group. The investment portfolio includes W Istanbul Hotel, Soho House Istanbul, Galataport, The Peninsula Istanbul, and Aman Bodrum among other high end residential and student housing projects. For further information please visit www.bilgiliholding.com, www.blgcapital.com About Deutsche Finance Deutsche Finance Group (DFG) is a global real estate investment management firm established in 2005 and headquartered in Munich with offices in London, Denver, Zurich, and Luxembourg. Deutsche Finance America (DFA) is a subsidiary company established in 2018 to source, structure and asset manage direct real estate investments in the United States on behalf of DFGs institutional client accounts and managed funds. DFA has closed on five deals totaling $500 million of equity in its first year of operations. Additional information can be found at www.dfamerica.com Media Contact: Elena Gaudino, [email protected] SOURCE SHVO PHILADELPHIA, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Aberdeen Emerging Markets Equity Income Fund, Inc. (the "Fund") (NYSE American: AEF) announced today that the Board of Directors of the Fund approved a cash tender offer by the Fund to purchase up to 15% of the Fund's issued and outstanding shares at a price per share equal to 98% of the Fund's net asset value ("NAV") per share as determined by the Fund on the next business day following the expiration date of the tender offer (the "Tender Offer"). The Tender Offer will commence on or about May 17, 2019 and will expire at 11:59 p.m. New York City time on June 17, 2019, unless otherwise extended. This Tender Offer is in connection with the Fund's previously announced targeted discount policy. The policy requires the Fund to: (1) buy back shares in the open market when the Fund's shares trade at a discount of 10% or more to NAV, and (2) undertake a 15% tender offer if the average discount exceeds 11% of NAV over any rolling twelve-month period commencing on April 27, 2018 and ending on December 31, 2019, provided that the Fund is not required to conduct more than one tender offer during such period. For the period from April 30, 2018 through April 30, 2019, the Fund's average discount to NAV was 11.55%. As a result, the Fund is required to undertake a 15% tender offer pursuant to the Fund's targeted discount policy. Important Information This press release may contain statements regarding plans and expectations for the future that constitute forward-looking statements within the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking and can be identified by the use of words such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "continue" or other similar words. Such forward-looking statements are based on the Fund's current plans and expectations, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Additional information concerning such risks and uncertainties are contained in the Fund's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The Tender Offer will be made, and the stockholders of the Fund will be notified, in accordance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and other applicable rules and regulations. This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any securities of the Fund. The Tender Offer described in this announcement has not yet commenced. The Tender Offer will be made only by an Offer to Purchase and the related Letter of Transmittal and other documents which will be filed with the SEC as exhibits to a tender offer statement on Schedule TO. As soon as the Tender Offer commences, the Fund will file a tender offer statement with the SEC. SHAREHOLDERS OF THE FUND SHOULD READ THESE DOCUMENTS BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Documents filed with the SEC are available to investors; free of charge, at the SEC's website (http://www.sec.gov). Shareholders can also obtain copies of these documents, when available, free of charge, by contacting Aberdeen Standard Investments Inc., 1735 Market Street, 32nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103, by calling 1-800-522-5465 toll-free or on the Internet at www.aberdeenaef.com. The Tender Offer is not being made to, nor will tenders be accepted from or on behalf of, holders of shares in any jurisdiction in which making or accepting the offer would violate that jurisdiction's laws. Aberdeen Standard Investments is a brand of the investment businesses of Standard Life Aberdeen plc, its affiliates and subsidiaries. In the United States, Aberdeen Standard Investments is the marketing name for the following affiliated, registered investment advisers: Aberdeen Standard Investments Inc., Aberdeen Asset Managers Ltd., Aberdeen Standard Investments Australia Ltd., Aberdeen Standard Investments (Asia) Ltd., Aberdeen Capital Management, LLC, Aberdeen Standard Investments ETFs Advisors LLC and Standard Life Investments (Corporate Funds) Ltd. Closed-end funds are traded on the secondary market through one of the stock exchanges. The Fund's investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor's shares may be worth more or less than the original cost. Shares of closed-end funds may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) the NAV of the fund's portfolio. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. If you wish to receive this information electronically, please contact [email protected] aberdeenaef.com SOURCE Aberdeen Emerging Markets Equity Income Fund, Inc. Related Links http://www.aberdeenaef.com MANHATTAN, N.Y., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Benjamin Zucker is the Head of Specialty Finance Research where he will provide coverage of the financial sector with a focus on specialty finance companies (BDCs, REITs, Alternative & Specialty Asset Managers and Special Situations). Prior to joining Aegis Capital, Mr. Zucker worked at BTIG, LLC as a Financial Analyst and Director covering mortgage REITs and other real estate finance companies. While at BTIG, Mr. Zucker was responsible for interacting with buy-side clients, interfacing with corporate management teams, organizing and attending non-deal roadshows, tracking industry data, maintaining company specific financial models and authoring regular research reports. Previously, Benjamin was a Vice President at JMP Securities LLC where he covered similar companies. Mr. Zucker began his career at Pritchard Capital Partners covering the oilfield services industry. Robert Eide Aegis' CEO commented: "We are pleased Ben has brought his wealth of knowledge in BDCs, REITs, Alternative and Special Situations to Aegis. Ben's experience, credentials and vast understanding of these sectors will be a complement to our research team." Michael Pata Aegis' Head of Business Development commented: "Ben will be a valuable addition to Aegis Capital's research team and the overall growth of the firm. His comprehension of the financial sector will be a benefit for our advisors and client base." About Aegis Capital Corporation Aegis Capital Corporation has been in business for over 35 years and maintains a conflict free service platform catering to the needs of private clients, institutions and corporations. Aegis Capital Corp. was founded in 1984 by Robert Eide, the current CEO and Chairman. Aegis is a premiere full-service investment banking firm with over twenty locations and employees stretching across the US. Aegis is able to bring quality service through its primary clearing relationship with RBC Correspondent Services (RBC CS) whose parent company, Royal Bank of Canada (NYSE: RY) is one of the world's leading diversified financial services companies. Any questions contact: Michael Pata, Head of Business Development Telephone: 1-212-813-1010 [email protected] SOURCE Aegis Capital Corp. Related Links http://www.aegiscapcorp.com LAS VEGAS, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- AGS (NYSE: AGS) ("AGS", "us", "we" or the "Company") today reported operating results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2019. AGS Chief Executive Officer David Lopez said, "I'm pleased to report another solid quarter of growth for AGS, with total revenue of $73 million up 13% year-over-year, driven by double-digit gains in EGMs and Tables. "Sold EGM units grew 22% year-over-year and our Tables Products segment reported its strongest quarter to date, driven by our award-winning progressive platforms. Our EGM recurring revenue installed base grew 14% year-over-year to 27,308 units, driven by the inclusion of 2,500 EGMs from the Integrity acquisition, which we closed in February of this year. With numerous levers to build momentum including strategic investments in R&D to continue building a strong, diversified, and expanded product portfolio, as well as many new and underpenetrated domestic and international markets AGS is well-positioned for continued long-term, meaningful growth." Summary of the quarter ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 (In thousands, except per-share data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 % Change Revenues EGM 69,655 61,258 13.7 % Table Products 2,156 1,670 29.1 % Interactive 1,231 1,928 (36.2) % Total revenues 73,042 64,856 12.6 % Operating income 8,348 2,238 273.0 % Net loss Attributable to PlayAGS, Inc. (82) (9,538) (99.1) % Loss per share (0.30) (100.0) % Adjusted EBITDA EGM 36,722 34,304 7.0 % Table Products 478 186 157.0 % Interactive (935) 9 N/A Total Adjusted EBITDA(1) 36,265 34,499 5.1 % Total Adjusted EBITDA margin(1) 49.6 % 53.2 % (360) bps(2) First Quarter 2019 Financial Highlights Total revenue increased 13% to $73.0 million , driven by continued growth in our EGM segment, primarily sold units in early-entry markets such as Michigan , Saskatchewan , Pennsylvania , and Massachusetts , as well as continued penetration into ramping markets such as Florida and California in addition to the contribution of leased EGMs acquired from Integrity Gaming Corp. ("Integrity") in February 2019 . , driven by continued growth in our EGM segment, primarily sold units in early-entry markets such as , , , and , as well as continued penetration into ramping markets such as and in addition to the contribution of leased EGMs acquired from Integrity Gaming Corp. ("Integrity") in . EGM equipment sales revenue increased 33% to $20.2 million , driven by the sale of 1,024 units, of which nearly 55% were sold into early-entry markets. , driven by the sale of 1,024 units, of which nearly 55% were sold into early-entry markets. Record gaming operations revenue, or recurring revenue, grew to $52.9 million , or 7% year-over-year, driven by the acquisition of Integrity, growth and performance of our international installed base, and an increase in Table Products revenue. , or 7% year-over-year, driven by the acquisition of Integrity, growth and performance of our international installed base, and an increase in Table Products revenue. Net loss attributable to PlayAGS, Inc. of $0.1 million improved year-over-year from a net loss of $9.5 million . improved year-over-year from a net loss of . Total Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) (1) increased to $36.3 million , or 5%, driven by the increase in revenue, offset by increased adjusted operating expenses, primarily due to headcount related costs in SG&A and R&D as well as an additional $1.0 million of operating costs from iGaming. increased to , or 5%, driven by the increase in revenue, offset by increased adjusted operating expenses, primarily due to headcount related costs in SG&A and R&D as well as an additional of operating costs from iGaming. Total Adjusted EBITDA margin (non-GAAP)(1) decreased to 50% in the first quarter of 2019 compared to 53% in the prior year driven by several factors, including increased headcount related costs in SG&A and R&D, operating costs from iGaming, as well as the increased proportion of equipment sales as part of total revenues. The prior year also included a favorable state and local tax benefit of $0.9 million . (1) Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin are non-GAAP measures, see non-GAAP reconciliation below. (2) Basis points EGM Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 (Amounts in thousands, except unit data) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 $ Change % Change EGM segment revenues: Gaming operations $ 49,500 $ 46,042 $ 3,458 7.5 % Equipment sales 20,155 15,216 4,939 32.5 % Total EGM revenues $ 69,655 $ 61,258 $ 8,397 13.7 % EGM Adjusted EBITDA $ 36,722 $ 34,304 $ 2,418 7.0 % EGM unit information: VLT 667 1,217 (550) (45.2) % Class II 12,191 12,254 (63) (0.5) % Class III 5,940 3,082 2,858 92.7 % Domestic installed base, end of period 18,798 16,553 2,245 13.6 % International base, end of period 8,510 7,480 1,030 13.8 % Total installed base, end of period 27,308 24,033 3,275 13.6 % Domestic revenue per day $ 26.42 $ 26.72 $ (0.30) (1.1) % International revenue per day $ 8.68 $ 8.27 $ 0.41 5.0 % Total revenue per day $ 20.73 $ 20.94 $ (0.21) (1.0) % EGM units sold 1,024 838 $ 186 22.2 % Average sales price $ 18,738 $ 17,758 $ 980 5.5 % EGM Highlights EGM sold units increased 22% to 1,024 compared to 838 in the prior year led by sales of the Orion Portrait and Orion Slant cabinets in early-entry markets and increased sales to corporate customers. and cabinets in early-entry markets and increased sales to corporate customers. The average sales price ("ASP") for EGMs increased by nearly $1,000 year-over-year to $18,738 , driven by sales of our premium-priced Orion Portrait cabinet and our core-plus cabinet, Orion Slant , which, when combined, accounted for over 85% of sales in the period. year-over-year to , driven by sales of our premium-priced cabinet and our core-plus cabinet, , which, when combined, accounted for over 85% of sales in the period. Domestic EGM installed base grew by 2,245 units year-over-year, and over 2,500 units sequentially, driven by the acquisition of 2,500 EGMs from Integrity in February 2019 . The prior year included the voluntary removal of approximately 500 EGMs at one customer in Texas as well as 420 VLT units that were purchased in an end-of-lease buyout by a customer in 2018 and an additional 130 VLT units in 2019. (3) . The prior year included the voluntary removal of approximately 500 EGMs at one customer in as well as 420 VLT units that were purchased in an end-of-lease buyout by a customer in 2018 and an additional 130 VLT units in 2019. Domestic EGM revenue per day ("RPD") decreased slightly to $26.42 compared to $26.72 in the prior year period, due to adverse weather conditions and the inclusion of EGMs from Integrity. We estimate adverse weather conditions in the first quarter negatively impacted RPD by approximately 2% - 4%, or $1.0 million to $2.0 million of EGM gaming operations revenue. When normalized for the impact of EGMs purchased from Integrity, we estimate that domestic RPD was $27.51 , up 3% compared to the prior-year-period, driven by our new product offerings and the ongoing optimization of our installed base. compared to in the prior year period, due to adverse weather conditions and the inclusion of EGMs from Integrity. We estimate adverse weather conditions in the first quarter negatively impacted RPD by approximately 2% - 4%, or to of EGM gaming operations revenue. When normalized for the impact of EGMs purchased from Integrity, we estimate that domestic RPD was , up 3% compared to the prior-year-period, driven by our new product offerings and the ongoing optimization of our installed base. International gaming operations revenue increased 19% year-over-year due to the addition of more than 1,000 incremental units. International RPD for the first quarter increased by $0.41 , or 5.0% compared to the first quarter of 2018, driven by the optimization of our installed base. On a constant currency basis, RPD in Mexico increased nearly 7% year-over-year. , or 5.0% compared to the first quarter of 2018, driven by the optimization of our installed base. On a constant currency basis, RPD in increased nearly 7% year-over-year. Our Orion Portrait footprint (4) increased to over 5,900 units, up 125% year-over-year and accounted for 65% of sales in the quarter. footprint increased to over 5,900 units, up 125% year-over-year and accounted for 65% of sales in the quarter. Our new Orion Slant footprint (4) increased to over 1,930 units, up 27% sequentially, and accounted for 21% of sales in the quarter with initial placements in several early-entry markets such as California and Washington driven by strong performance of our Fa Cai Shu family of games. footprint increased to over 1,930 units, up 27% sequentially, and accounted for 21% of sales in the quarter with initial placements in several early-entry markets such as and driven by strong performance of our family of games. Our ICON cabinet footprint (4) increased by 977 units year-over-year and over 400 units sequentially to over 7,860 units, with 686 ICON units in Mexico as of the first quarter. (3) The VLT units were not counted in our sold unit count either period. (4) Footprint includes sold and leased units. Table Products Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 (Amounts in thousands, except unit data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 $ Change % Change Table Products segment revenues: Gaming operations $ 2,130 $ 1,662 $ 468 28.2 % Equipment sales 26 8 18 225.0 % Total Table Products revenues $ 2,156 $ 1,670 $ 486 29.1 % Table Products Adjusted EBITDA $ 478 $ 186 $ 292 157.0 % Table Products unit information: Table Products installed base, end of period 3,285 2,631 654 24.9 % Average monthly lease price $ 217 $ 220 (3) (1.4) % Table Products Highlights Revenue increased $0.5 million , or 29%, due to an increase of 654 units year-over-year and over 120 units sequentially, driven by growth of our Super 4 Progressive Blackjack and Buster Blackjack side bet. , or 29%, due to an increase of 654 units year-over-year and over 120 units sequentially, driven by growth of our and side bet. Our installed base of table game progressives reached nearly 1,100, with over 100 placed during the quarter. Converted over 200 competitor progressives to our own STAX progressives in the quarter, driving Adjusted EBITDA increases. progressives in the quarter, driving Adjusted EBITDA increases. Momentum and demand for our new Dex S card shuffler continues to grow with 45 shufflers installed in several markets across the U.S. card shuffler continues to grow with 45 shufflers installed in several markets across the U.S. Sixth consecutive quarter of positive Adjusted EBITDA for the Table Products segment. Interactive Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 (Amounts in thousands, except unit data) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 $ Change % Change Interactive segment revenue: Social gaming revenue $ 958 $ 1,928 $ (970) (50.3) % Real Money Gaming revenue 273 273 100.0 % Total Interactive revenue $ 1,231 $ 1,928 $ (697) (36.2) % Interactive Adjusted EBITDA $ (935) $ 9 $ (944) N/A Interactive Highlights Interactive revenue decreased $0.7 million due to a decrease in social gaming revenues as a result of strategically optimizing our user acquisition costs. due to a decrease in social gaming revenues as a result of strategically optimizing our user acquisition costs. We generated $0.3 million in revenue from iGaming. in revenue from iGaming. The decrease in Interactive Adjusted EBITDA is related to $1.0 million of operating costs from iGaming. of operating costs from iGaming. Launched our proven land-based EGM content in the quarter in Europe and the UK, including Golden Wins , Jade Wins , and Longhorn Jackpots, which are currently some of our highest-performing games on the iGaming platform. Operating Expenses SG&A expenses decreased $1.9 million in the first quarter of 2019 primarily due to a decrease of $5.7 million non-cash stock-based compensation expense (the prior year period included an initial charge of $6.2 million recorded in connection with the IPO), offset by an increase in headcount related costs of $1.6 million, $1.7 million in professional fees related to acquisition and integration costs, and costs related to secondary equity offerings. The prior year included a state and local tax benefit of $0.9 million. R&D expenses decreased $0.5 million to $8.1 million in the first quarter of 2019 due to a decrease of $1.3 million non-cash stock-based compensation expense (the prior year period included an initial charge of $1.6 million recorded in connection with the IPO) and $0.5 million related to the timing of software testing and product approval costs. These decreases were offset by an increase in headcount related costs of $0.8 million driven partially by our new design studio in Sydney, Australia. Balance Sheet Review As of March 31, 2019, we had $10.4 million in cash and cash equivalents compared to $70.7 million at December 31, 2018. Total net debt, which is the principal amount of debt outstanding less cash and cash equivalents as of March 31, 2019, was approximately $527.2 million compared to $468.1 million at December 31, 2018. In the first quarter, net debt increased by over $59.1 primarily driven by the acquisition of Integrity as well as increased capital expenditures. Our Adjusted Total Net Debt Leverage Ratio increased from 3.4 times at December 31, 2018, to 3.6 times at March 31, 2019, see Total Net Debt Leverage Ratio Reconciliation below.(5) Capital expenditures increased $4.0 million to $19.0 million in the first quarter, compared to $15.0 million in the prior year period due to new domestic and international recurring EGM units placed on lease, optimization of our EGM installed base, an increase in recurring table game progressive units. 2019 Outlook Based on our year to date progress, we continue to expect to generate total adjusted EBITDA of $160 - $164 million in 2019, representing growth of approximately 17% - 20% compared to the prior year period. We also continue to expect 2019 capital expenditures to be in the range of $64 - $69 million, compared to $66.6 million in 2018, reflecting an expectation for a continued increase in our installed base in both existing and new markets as well as our ongoing yield optimization initiative, including units recently purchased from Integrity. Recent Developments Acquisition of Integrity Gaming Corp. On February 8, 2019, we completed the acquisition of Integrity, a regional slot route operator with approximately 2,500 recurring revenue gaming machines in operation across over 33 casinos in Oklahoma and Texas. The acquisition was funded with cash on the balance sheet and funds from incremental $30.0 million term loans incurred on October 5, 2018. Entry into Philippines We recently completed the necessary regulatory requirements in the Philippines and initial units of our Alora video bingo cabinet are now live. Conference Call and Webcast Today, at 5:00 p.m. EDT, AGS leadership will host a conference call to present the first quarter 2019 results. Listeners may access a live webcast of the conference call along with accompanying slides at AGS' Investor Relations website at http://investors.playags.com/. A replay of the webcast will be available on the website following the live event. To listen by telephone, the U.S./Canada toll-free dial-in number is +1 (844) 746-0637 and the dial-in number for participants outside the U.S./Canada is +1 (412) 317-5261. The conference ID/confirmation code is "AGS Q1 2019 Earnings Call". (5) Total Adjusted EBITDA and total net debt leverage ratio are a non-GAAP measures, see non-GAAP reconciliation below. Company Overview AGS is a global company focused on creating a diverse mix of entertaining gaming experiences for every kind of player. Our roots are firmly planted in the Class II tribal gaming market, but our customer-centric culture and remarkable growth have helped us branch out to become one of the most all-inclusive commercial gaming suppliers in the world. Powered by high-performing Class II and Class III slot products, an expansive table products portfolio, highly rated social casino and real-money gaming solutions for players and operators, and best-in-class service, we offer an unmatched value proposition for our casino partners. Learn more at playags.com. AGS Media & Investor Contacts: Julia Boguslawski, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President of Investor Relations [email protected] Steven Kopjo, Director of Investor Relations [email protected] 2019 PlayAGS, Inc. All notices signify marks registered in the United States. All and SM notices signify unregistered trademarks. Products referenced herein are sold by AGS LLC or other subsidiaries of PlayAGS, Inc Forward-Looking Statement This release contains, and oral statements made from time to time by our representatives may contain, forward-looking statements based on management's current expectations and projections, which are intended to qualify for the safe harbor 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 include statements regarding the proposed public offering and other statements identified by words such as "believe," "will," "may," "might," "likely," "expect," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "seeks," "estimates," "believes," "continues," "projects" and similar references to future periods, or by the inclusion of forecasts or projections. All forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections of future events. These forward-looking statements reflect the current views, models, and assumptions of AGS, and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that cannot be predicted or qualified and could cause actual results in AGS's performance to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the ability of AGS to maintain strategic alliances, unit placements or installations, grow revenue, garner new market share, secure new licenses in new jurisdictions, successfully develop or place proprietary product, comply with regulations, have its games approved by relevant jurisdictions and other factors set forth under Item 1. "Business," Item 1A. "Risk Factors" in AGS's Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 5, 2019. All forward-looking statements made herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements and there can be no assurance that the actual results, events or developments referenced herein will occur or be realized. Readers are cautioned that all forward-looking statements speak only to the facts and circumstances present as of the date of this press release. AGS expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. PLAYAGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (amounts in thousands, except share and per share data) March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 10,369 $ 70,726 Restricted cash 20 78 Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $833 and $855 respectively 50,363 44,704 Inventories 28,440 27,438 Prepaid expenses 5,238 3,566 Deposits and other 3,946 4,231 Total current assets 98,376 150,743 Property and equipment, net 107,677 91,547 Goodwill 288,787 277,263 Intangible assets 250,663 196,898 Deferred tax asset 2,356 2,544 Operating leases 9,715 Other assets 7,182 12,347 Total assets $ 764,756 $ 731,342 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities Accounts payable $ 18,080 $ 14,821 Accrued liabilities 27,459 26,659 Current maturities of long-term debt 5,956 5,959 Total current liabilities 51,495 47,439 Long-term debt 521,200 521,924 Deferred tax liability - noncurrent 969 1,443 Other long-term liabilities 42,939 24,732 Operating lease liability, long-term 9,930 Total liabilities 626,533 595,538 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' equity Preferred stock at $0.01 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding Common stock at $0.01 par value; 450,000,000 shares authorized at March 31, 2019 and at December 31, 2018; and 35,410,917 and 35,353,269 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively. 354 353 Additional paid-in capital 363,379 361,628 Accumulated deficit (222,485) (222,403) Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income (3,132) (3,774) Non-controlling interest 107 Total stockholders' equity (deficit) 138,223 135,804 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 764,756 $ 731,342 PLAYAGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (amounts in thousands, except per share data) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenues Gaming operations $ 52,861 $ 49,632 Equipment sales 20,181 15,224 Total revenues 73,042 64,856 Operating expenses Cost of gaming operations(6) 9,619 8,858 Cost of equipment sales(6) 9,524 7,399 Selling, general and administrative 14,877 16,777 Research and development 8,125 8,625 Write-downs and other charges 1,016 1,610 Depreciation and amortization 21,533 19,349 Total operating expenses 64,694 62,618 Income from operations 8,348 2,238 Other (income) expense Interest expense 8,874 10,424 Interest income (39) (52) Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt 4,608 Other (income) expense 5,260 9,232 Loss before income taxes (5,747) (21,974) Income tax benefit (expense) 5,758 12,436 Net income (loss) 11 (9,538) Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interests (93) Net loss attributable to PlayAGS, Inc (82) (9,538) Foreign currency translation adjustment 642 2,937 Total comprehensive income (loss) $ 560 $ (6,601) Basic and diluted loss per common share: Basic (0.30) Diluted (0.30) Weighted average common shares outstanding: Basic 35,371 31,735 Diluted 35,371 31,735 (6) Exclusive of depreciation and amortization PLAYAGS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in thousands) Three months ended March 31, 2019 2018 Cash flows from operating activities Net income (loss) $ 11 $ (9,538) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 21,533 19,349 Accretion of contract rights under development agreements and placement fees 1,271 1,084 Amortization of deferred loan costs and discount 468 451 Payment-in-kind interest payments (37,624) Write-off of deferred loan cost and discount 3,410 Stock-based compensation expense 1,196 8,153 Provision (benefit) for bad debts 52 (142) Loss on disposition of assets 266 340 Impairment of assets 350 570 Fair value adjustment of contingent consideration 400 700 (Benefit) provision for deferred income tax (298) (3,551) Changes in assets and liabilities that relate to operations: Accounts receivable (4,155) (4,820) Inventories 522 (2,462) Prepaid expenses (1,554) (1,826) Deposits and other 318 118 Other assets, non-current 5,268 11,618 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (13,993) (18,646) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 11,655 (32,816) Cash flows from investing activities Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired (50,779) Purchase of intangible assets (1,231) (568) Software development and other expenditures (2,669) (2,490) Proceeds from disposition of assets 109 21 Purchases of property and equipment (15,105) (11,931) Net cash (used in) investing activities (69,675) (14,968) Cash flows from financing activities Repayment of PIK notes (115,000) Repayment of senior secured credit facilities (1,347) (1,288) Payment of financed placement fee obligations (971) (879) Payments on contingent consideration (157) Payments on equipment long-term note payable and capital leases (417) (678) Proceeds from issuance of common stock 176,341 Initial public offering cost (4,160) Proceeds from stock option exercise 556 Distributions to non-controlling interest owners (57) Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (2,393) 54,336 Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents (2) 5 (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents (60,415) 6,557 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 70,804 19,342 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 10,389 $ 25,899 Non-cash investing and financing activities: Intangible assets obtained under placement fee arrangements $ 33,129 $ Leased assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities $ 494 $ Leased assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities $ 10,102 $ Non-GAAP Financial Measures To provide investors with additional information in connection with our results as determined by generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"), we disclose the following non-GAAP financial measures: total Adjusted EBITDA, total Adjusted EBITDA margin, total net debt leverage ratio, and Free Cash Flow. These measures are not financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP, and should not be considered as a substitute for net income, operating income, cash flows, or any other measure calculated in accordance with GAAP, and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Total Adjusted EBITDA This press release and accompanying schedules provide certain information regarding Adjusted EBITDA, which is considered a non-GAAP financial measure under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. We believe that the presentation of total Adjusted EBITDA is appropriate to provide additional information to investors about certain material non-cash items that we do not expect to continue at the same level in the future, as well as other items we do not consider indicative of our ongoing operating performance. Further, we believe total Adjusted EBITDA provides a meaningful measure of operating profitability because we use it for evaluating our business performance, making budgeting decisions, and comparing our performance against that of other peer companies using similar measures. It also provides management and investors with additional information to estimate our value. Total Adjusted EBITDA is not a presentation made in accordance with GAAP. Our use of the term total Adjusted EBITDA may vary from others in our industry. Total Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to operating income or net income. Total Adjusted EBITDA has important limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation or as a substitute for the analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. Our definition of total Adjusted EBITDA allows us to add back certain non-cash charges that are deducted in calculating net income and to deduct certain gains that are included in calculating net income. However, these expenses and gains vary greatly, and are difficult to predict. They can represent the effect of long-term strategies as opposed to short-term results. In addition, in the case of charges or expenses, these items can represent the reduction of cash that could be used for other corporate purposes. Due to these limitations, we rely primarily on our GAAP results, such as net loss, (loss) income from operations, EGM Adjusted EBITDA, Table Products Adjusted EBITDA or Interactive Adjusted EBITDA and use Total Adjusted EBITDA only supplementally. The total Adjusted EBITDA discussion above is also applicable to its margin measure, which is calculated as total Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of Total Revenue. The following table presents a reconciliation of total Adjusted EBITDA to net loss, which is the most comparable GAAP measure: Total Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation (Amounts in thousands) Three months ending March 31, 2019 2018 Net loss attributable to PlayAGS, Inc. $ (82) $ (9,538) Income tax (benefit) expense (5,758) (12,436) Depreciation and amortization 21,533 19,349 Other expense (income) 5,260 9,232 Interest income (39) (52) Interest expense 8,874 10,424 Write-downs and other(7) 1,016 1,610 Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt(8) 4,608 Other adjustments(9) 277 396 Other non-cash charges(10) 1,919 1,574 Acquisition and integration related costs(11) 2,069 1,179 Non-cash stock compensation 1,196 8,153 Adjusted EBITDA $ 36,265 $ 34,499 (Amounts in thousands, except Adjusted EBITDA margin) Three months ending March 31, 2019 2018 Total revenues $ 73,042 $ 64,856 Adjusted EBITDA $ 36,265 $ 34,499 Adjusted EBITDA margin 49.6 % 53.2 % (7) Write-downs and other includes items related to loss on disposal or impairment of long lived assets (including impairments of goodwill), fair value adjustments to contingent consideration and acquisition costs. (8) Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt primarily relates to the refinancing of long-term debt, in which deferred loan costs and discounts related to old senior secured credit facilities were written off. (9) Other adjustments are primarily composed of professional fees incurred for projects, corporate and public filing compliance, contract cancellation fees and other transaction costs deemed to be non-operating. (10) Other non-cash charges are costs related to non-cash charges and losses on the disposition of assets, non-cash charges on capitalized installation and delivery, which primarily includes the costs to acquire contracts that are expensed over the estimated life of each contract and non-cash charges related to accretion of contract rights under development agreements. (11) Acquisition and integration costs include restructuring and severance and are related to costs incurred after the purchase of businesses, such as the acquisitions of Rocket and Integrity, to integrate operations. Total Net Debt Leverage Ratio Reconciliation The following table presents a reconciliation of total net debt and total net debt leverage ratio: (Amounts in thousands, except net debt leverage ratio) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 Total debt $ 537,604 $ 538,799 Less: Cash and cash equivalents 10,369 70,726 Total net debt $ 527,235 $ 468,073 LTM Adjusted EBITDA $ 137,972 $ 136,206 Total net debt leverage ratio 3.8 3.4 Integrity LTM Adjusted EBITDA(12) $ 7,700 $ Post-Integrity LTM Adjusted EBITDA $ 145,672 $ 136,206 Adjusted total net debt leverage ratio 3.6 3.4 (12) Represents Integrity's 2017 Adjusted EBITDA, which we believe is indicative of Integrity's performance in subsequent periods, adjusted for the time period for which Integrity's financial measures are included in AGS's results. Free Cash Flow This schedule provides certain information regarding Free Cash Flow, which is considered a non-GAAP financial measure under the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. We define Free Cash Flow as net cash provided by operating activities less cash outlays related to capital expenditures and payments of in-kind interest related to the redemption of our HoldCo PIK notes. We define capital expenditures to include purchase of intangible assets, software development and other expenditures, and purchases of property and equipment. In arriving at Free Cash Flow, we subtract cash outlays related to capital expenditures from net cash provided by operating activities because they represent long-term investments that are required for normal business activities. As a result, subject to the limitations described below, Free Cash Flow is a useful measure of our cash available to repay debt and/or make other investments. Free Cash Flow adjusts for cash items that are ultimately within management's discretion to direct, and therefore, may imply that there is less or more cash that is available than the most comparable GAAP measure. Free Cash Flow is not intended to represent residual cash flow for discretionary expenditures since debt repayment requirements and other non-discretionary expenditures are not deducted. These limitations are best addressed by using Free Cash Flow in combination with the GAAP cash flow numbers. The following table presents a reconciliation of Free Cash Flow: (amounts in thousands) Three months ended March 31, 2019 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 11,655 Purchase of intangible assets (1,231) Software development and other expenditures (2,669) Purchases of property and equipment (15,105) Free Cash Flow $ (7,350) (amounts in thousands) Three months ended March 31, 2018 Net cash provided by operating activities $ (32,816) Purchase of intangible assets (568) Software development and other expenditures (2,490) Purchases of property and equipment (11,931) Payments-in-kind interest payments 37,624 Free Cash Flow $ (10,181) SOURCE AGS Related Links http://www.playags.com SAN JOSE, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- AirXpanders, Inc. (ASX: AXP), a medical device company focused on the design, manufacture, sale and distribution of the AeroForm Tissue Expander System, today announced that the Company has retained Cowen as an independent financial advisor to assist in exploring financial and strategic alternatives. With Cowen's assistance, the Company will continue to evaluate opportunities to explore a wide range of financial and strategic alternatives, including a capital raise, that could enhance stockholder value and enable the Company to continue serving other important constituencies, including patients and physicians. About AirXpanders: Founded in 2005, AirXpanders, Inc. (www.airxpanders.com) designs, manufactures and markets innovative medical devices to improve breast reconstruction. The Company's AeroForm Tissue Expander System, is used in patients undergoing two-stage breast reconstruction following mastectomy. Headquartered in San Jose, California, AirXpanders' vision is to be the global leader in reconstructive surgery products and to become the standard of care in two-stage breast reconstruction. AirXpanders is a publicly listed company on the Australian Securities Exchange under the symbol "AXP." AeroForm was granted U.S. FDA de novo marketing authorization in 2016, subsequent U.S. market clearance in 2017, first CE mark in Europe in 2012 and is currently licensed for sale in Australia. About Cowen Cowen Inc. ("Cowen") is a diversified financial services firm that operates through two business segments: a broker dealer and an investment management division. Cowen's broker dealer division offers investment banking services, equity and credit research, sales and trading, prime brokerage, global clearing and commission management services. Cowen's investment management segment offers actively managed alternative investment products. Cowen Inc. focuses on delivering value-added capabilities to clients in order to help them outperform. Founded in 1918, the firm is headquartered in New York and has offices worldwide. Learn more at cowen.com. Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains or may contain forward-looking statements that are based on management's beliefs, assumptions and expectations and on information currently available to management. All statements that address our business strategies, plans and objectives, operating performance, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future, including those related to strategic alternatives, the use of proceeds, cash forecasts and anticipated growth of the Company's business, are forward-looking statements. These include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties related to our ability to consummate any particular financing or strategic transaction on favourable terms or at all, our ability to enhance stockholder value and/or to provide our products and services to patients and physicians , and additional business risks included in the Company's periodic reports filed with the SEC. Management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable when made. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they speak only as of the date when made. AirXpanders may not actually achieve the plans, projections or expectations disclosed in forward-looking statements. Actual results, strategic actions, developments or events could differ materially from those disclosed in the forward-looking statements. For additional information and considerations regarding the risks faced by AirXpanders that could cause actual results to differ materially, see its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2019 (U.S. time), as well as other filings made with the SEC from time to time. AirXpanders disclaims any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement, except as required by law. For more information, refer to the Company's website at www.airxpanders.com. Company Company Frank Grillo President & CEO Tel: +1 (650)-390-9000 Email: [email protected] Scott Murcray CFO & COO Tel: +1 (650)-390-9000 Email: [email protected] SOURCE AirXpanders, Inc. Related Links http://www.airxpanders.com NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- AJC is calling on Catholic leadership in Poland to reprimand the Bishop of Tarnow for his Holy Thursday sermon that was filled with attacks on the Jewish people. Bishop Andrzej Jez, citing a 1937 edition of the Polish periodical Nasza Sprawathat that referenced the 10th World Zionist Congress of 1911, asserted that Jews control the media, had launched decades ago a plot against the Church, and today were responsible for certain accusations of misbehavior by priests in Poland. "A certain nation" plotted early in the 20th century to divide and slander the Catholic Church, Bishop Jez said.. "Bishop Jez's outrageous anti-Semitic comments betray the profound example and commitment of Saint John Paul II to a relationship of true mutual respect in keeping with the groundbreaking Nostra Aetate document adopted by Vatican Council II more than 50 years ago," said Rabbi David Rosen, AJC's International Director of Interreligious Relations. "The tepid response by Catholic leaders in Poland to Bishop Jez's outlandish sermon is deeply disturbing." Rosen seconded the view expressed by Poland's Chief Rabbi, Michael Schudrich, who said Bishop Jez's sermon shows "there is a problem that needs addressing inside the Catholic Church in Poland." SOURCE American Jewish Committee Related Links http://www.ajc.org BURLINGTON, Mass., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Aliaswire, Inc., a leading, payments processing technology innovator, has won the National Automated Clearing House Association's (NACHA) 2019 ACH Network Challenge Award. The company received the award Tuesday at NACHA's Payments 2019 event being held in Orlando, FL. Scott Goldthwaite, president of Massachusetts-based Aliaswire said the company is honored to be presented with the award. "Once again, Aliaswire has been recognized for our innovation in the Payments Industry. The recognition we are receiving aligns with and supports the rapid growth stage that the company is currently experiencing," he said. Just a week before, Aliaswire won the 2019 Electronics Transaction Association's (ETA) Technology Innovation Award for its PayVus platform. NACHA's ACH Network Challenge is part of the not-for-profit organization's efforts to move its (Automated Clearing House) electronic funds-transfer network from single, next-day settlement to multiple, same-day and next-day settlement options that would be available for virtually any ACH Network transaction. NACHA is the administrator of the ACH Network and is responsible for setting and enforcing operating rules, by which users of the global ACH Network must abide. The goal of the challenge was to foster ideas on new ways to enable usage for Same Day ACH capabilities within the payments' ecosystem. Aliaswire presented a winning solution that is integrated into its own advanced payment system. Aliaswire was awarded for use of the Same Day ACH credit process to speed payments to merchants. With PayVus, merchants can move funds between their PayVus MasterCard business credit card and their Demand Deposit Account (DDA) using the cost-effectiveness of the Same Day ACH rails. The PayVus platform comes with a traditional, revolving line of credit and is also funded by the merchant's card processing receivables. Aliaswire provides a revenue share to the ISO/Acquirer from interchange generated when merchants make purchases with the card. ISOs and Acquirers can use the revenue share to reduce merchant processing fees. "With same-day ACH, merchants have faster access to their funds, and it provides the bridge between receivables and payables," Goldthwaite said. About Aliaswire, Inc. Aliaswire, Inc. is a leading payments technology provider of highly advanced, secure and reliable transaction processing solutions. Aliaswire's unparalleled intelligent processing platforms and intellectual property continuously evolve and scale to meet changing market demands across multiple verticals. An industry-recognized innovator, Aliaswire provides multi-tenant payment processing capabilities to the market through our growing network of channel partners and resellers. Aliaswire's network includes leading financial institutions, Fortune 500 companies, and multiple payment networks. Core products include DirectBiller, the industry's first, fast onboarding channel-centric electronic bill present and payments (EBPP) platform in the US.; PayVus, the only turnkey bill settlement to cards platform that enables ISOs and Acquirers to offer merchants a business credit card; Transcentive, a tender-type steering and interchange management solution for merchants and PayVox, a consumer bill payment platform for prepaid program managers and financial services providers. For more information contact: Aliaswire, Inc. Brent Watters Marketing Director [email protected] SOURCE Aliaswire, Inc. Related Links http://www.aliaswire.com FALLS CHURCH, Va., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Analytical Services, Inc. (ANSER) is proud to announce the opening of our new satellite office, ANSER North, at 4694 Millennium Drive, Belcamp, Maryland at the Water's Edge Business Complex. Opening this office strengthens support to our clients in the Edgewood and Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland area. "We are delighted to announce the opening of our new office," said Carmen Spencer, ANSER President and CEO. "This new facility is located in close proximity to several of our strategic government clients: the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological & Nuclear Defense, and the Program Executive Office for the Assembled Chemical Weapons Alternative." About Analytic Services, Inc. (ANSER) ANSER was founded in 1958 as a public service research institute organized as a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to informing decisions that shape the nation's future. We provide program management and objective studies and analyses to the national security, homeland security, and public policy communities. ANSER also builds and leads technology development collaborations through its subsidiary, Advanced Technology International (ATI), specializing in organizing and managing research and development consortia on behalf of the federal government. ANSER's headquarters is in Falls Church, Virginia and has offices in Colorado Springs, Colorado. For more information visit: www.anser.org. Contact: Richard Spencer, [email protected] SOURCE ANSER Related Links https://www.anser.org NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Atif Rafiq, newly appointed President of Commercial and Growth at MGM Resorts International and former Chief Digital Officer at Volvo Cars, today was recognized as the U.S. Chief Digital Officer of the Year 2019 by the CDO Club, the world's largest community of C-suite digital and data leaders. Atif Rafiq Mr. Rafiq received the award after his keynote on "Five Lessons Learned on the Path to Digital Disruption" from David Mathison, CEO of the CDO Club and CDO Summit, at the 7th annual NYC CDO Summit on Wednesday, May 8 in the Roone Arledge auditorium at Columbia University. "There's a great rewiring of every large company underway at the moment. In the role of CDO, you're often in the middle of it - culture change, organizing a company around customers, recruitment of new tech-savvy talent, and business model evolution. I've been privileged to play the CDO role for companies with great brands, huge scale and global presence. And this recognition from CDO Club is the cherry on top." "A true 'digital native' and prototypical CDO, Atif has been at the center of digital disruption for over 20 years where he worked in leadership roles at some of the world's most prestigious organizations, including Goldman Sachs, AOL, Audible [acquired by Amazon], Covigna, Yahoo!, and Amazon. In 2013 he became SVP and Global CDO at McDonald's, and in 2017 he took on an expanded role as CDO and Global CIO at Volvo Cars. In May 2019, he will start at President, Commercial & Growth for MGM Resorts, a move that earned him inclusion into the CDO Club Hall of Fame, which recognizes those CDOs who have become CEO or President. I am delighted to recognize Atif as the U.S. Chief Digital Officer of the Year for 2019," noted David Mathison, CEO of the CDO Club. A recent Wall Street Journal article noted that Atif's move to MGM as President "reflects a shift of the role of CDO from change catalyst to revenue producer, which can also lead to higher offices" and MGM Chief Executive Jim Murren praised Atif's "proven ability to translate emerging consumer behavior into strategy and revenue growth." Mr. Rafiq has both disrupted as a new technology entrant, and helped reposition large incumbent companies. Atif was one of the first chief digital officers in the Fortune 100, and has helped shape the profile of this role as global corporations have embraced it. He provides strong vision for new consumer experiences and products with relentless customer focus, and high business discipline around execution. He is a talent magnet who excels at creating high performance teams aimed at missionary work and has mentored several executives to the C-level. Atif earned his MBA in Finance and Marketing from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business in 2000, and his BA in Mathematics-Economics from Wesleyan University in 1994. Previous U.S. Chief Digital Officer of the Year award winners include Fred Santarpia, Chief Digital Officer at Conde Nast (2018); Thomas Hjelm, Chief Digital Officer at NPR (2017); Linda Boff, Chief Marketing Officer at GE (2016); Adam Brotman, former Chief Digital Officer at Starbucks Coffee Company (2015); Rachael S. Haot, former Chief Digital Officer of New York City and New York State (2014); and Teddy Goff, former Digital Director at Obama for America (2013). U.K. CDO of the Year award winners include Bertrand Bodson, Chief Digital and Marketing Officer at Sainsbury's Argos (2016); Tanya Cordrey, former Chief Digital Officer at Guardian News and Media (2015); and Mike Bracken, former Chief Digital Officer at U.K.'s Government Digital Service (2014). The EU CDO of the Year award winner was Patrick Hoffstetter, former Chief Digital Officer at Renault (2016). Australian CDO of the Year award winners include Clive Dickens, former Chief Digital Officer at Seven West Media (2017); and Rebekah Horne, former Chief Digital Officer at Network Ten (2016). About the CDO Club The CDO Club is the world's largest community of C-suite digital and data leaders. Its registered members receive access to breaking news, original research, career development support, and networking opportunities. The CDO Club tracks the CDO to CEO career path, identifying more than 100 CDOs who have become CEO, President, or Board Director Director since 2007. Visit: http://CDOClub.com. About the CDO Summit The CDO Summit addresses the challenges and opportunities arising from big data, the cloud, digital disruption, and social and mobile media. More: CDOSummit.com. Media Contacts: [email protected] +4631596525 David Mathison Founder and CEO: CDO Club/CDO Summit [email protected] 1-516-488-1143 SOURCE CDO Club Related Links http://CDOClub.com BEIJING, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM) ("Autohome" or the "Company"), the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. First Quarter 2019 Financial Highlights [1] Net Revenues in the first quarter of 2019 were RMB1,611.9 million ( $240.2 million ), exceeding the high end of the Company's original guidance of RMB1,585.0 million ( $236.2 million ). in the first quarter of 2019 were ( ), exceeding the high end of the Company's original guidance of ( ). Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. in the first quarter of 2019 increased by 33.9% year-over-year to RMB646.3 million ( $96.3 million ). in the first quarter of 2019 increased by 33.9% year-over-year to ( ). Adjusted net income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP) in the first quarter of 2019 increased by 34.7% year-over-year to RMB700.6 million ( $104.4 million ). [1] The reporting currency of the Company is Renminbi ("RMB"). For the convenience of readers, certain amounts throughout the release are presented in US dollars ("$"). Unless otherwise noted, all conversions from RMB to US$ are translated at the noon buying rate of US$1.00 to RMB6.7112 on March 29, 2019 in the City of New York for cable transfers of RMB as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted into US$ at such rate. First Quarter 2019 Operational Highlights Mobile Traffic Leadership Continues : In March 2019 , the total number of average daily unique visitors who accessed the Company's mobile websites and primary application reached 30.2 million, representing an increase of 14% compared to March 2018 , further solidifying the Company's dominant position in the auto vertical sector in China . : In , the total number of average daily unique visitors who accessed the Company's mobile websites and primary application reached 30.2 million, representing an increase of 14% compared to , further solidifying the Company's dominant position in the auto vertical sector in . Newly Launched Channels and Search Product Enhanced Traffic Expansion: The Company continued to expand its content portfolio by adding new categories that cater to users' needs. Energy Vehicle and Mini Short Video channels achieved new traffic records every month. Carso, the Company's self-developed intelligent search engine, providing aggregated car-related information, also experienced rapid traffic ramp up. Mr. Min Lu, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Autohome, stated, "We achieved a solid set of operating and financial results for the first quarter of 2019, despite the weak macro-economic conditions. Our media, leads generation and new initiatives all contributed to the strong revenue growth of 25% year-over-year. We are also excited to see the continued ramp up of our traffic with mobile DAU increased by 14% year-over-year, further solidifying our mobile leadership. All of these reflect the success of Autohome as a leading auto ecosystem supported by artificial intelligence, big data and cloud technologies, providing diverse and customized contents for users, and generating unique value for our automaker/dealer partners. We will continue enhancing our core competitiveness and business fundamentals through investments in these areas." Mr. Jun Zou, Chief Financial Officer of Autohome, added, "We started off the year 2019 by delivering top-line growth momentum which surpassed our original guidance. We also generated consistent profitability with adjusted net income attributable to Autohome increased by 35% year-over-year through effective financial control policies, increasing operational leverage and prudent cost management. Our results validate the power of our overall offerings and execution efficiency. Looking towards the rest of 2019, we remain committed to driving growth and profitability while investing in future growth potentials." Overview of Key Financial Results for the First Quarter 2019 Key Financial Results (In RMB Millions except for per share data) 1Q2018 1Q2019 % Change Net Revenues 1,288.1 1,611.9 25.1% Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. 482.8 646.3 33.9% Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc.[2] (Non-GAAP) 520.0 700.6 34.7% Diluted Earnings Per Share[3] 4.05 5.41 33.6% [2] Adjusted net income attributable to Autohome Inc. is defined as net income attributable to Autohome Inc. excluding share-based compensation expenses and amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions. For more information on this and other non-GAAP financial measures, please see the section captioned "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" and the tables captioned "Reconciliations of Non-GAAP and GAAP Results" set forth at the end of this release. [3] Each ordinary share equals one ADS. Unaudited First Quarter 2019 Financial Results Net Revenues Net revenues in the first quarter of 2019 were RMB1,611.9 million ($240.2 million) compared to RMB1,288.1 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Media services revenues increased by 10.1% to RMB643.2 million ( $95.8 million ) from RMB584.2 million in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was mainly attributable to an increase in average revenue per automaker advertiser as automakers continued to allocate a greater portion of their advertising budgets to Autohome, which provides an increasingly diversified and optimized portfolio of products. revenues increased by 10.1% to ( ) from in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was mainly attributable to an increase in average revenue per automaker advertiser as automakers continued to allocate a greater portion of their advertising budgets to Autohome, which provides an increasingly diversified and optimized portfolio of products. Leads generation services revenues increased by 20.2% to RMB734.1 million ( $109.4 million ) from RMB610.8 million in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was primarily attributable to the increase in average revenue per paying dealer. revenues increased by 20.2% to ( ) from in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was primarily attributable to the increase in average revenue per paying dealer. Online marketplace and others revenues increased by 152.1% to RMB234.6 million ( $35.0 million ) from RMB93.1 million in the corresponding period of 2018. This increase was primarily attributable to the increased contribution from the auto-financing business and data products. Cost of Revenues Cost of revenues were RMB184.5 million ($27.5 million) from RMB146.1 million in the corresponding period of 2018. In addition, cost of revenues included share-based compensation expenses of RMB3.9 million ($0.6 million) during the first quarter of 2019, compared to RMB1.1 million for the corresponding period of 2018. Operating Expenses Operating expenses were RMB846.1 million ($126.1 million) in the first quarter of 2019, compared to RMB689.7 million in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was mainly due to the increases in sales and marketing expenses and product development expenses as the Company continues to invest in future growth opportunities. Sales and marketing expenses were RMB509.7 million ( $76.0 million ) in the first quarter of 2019, compared to RMB398.0 million in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was primarily due to an increase in salaries and benefits of sales and marketing staff and offline execution expenses. Sales and marketing expenses for the first quarter of 2019 included share-based compensation expenses of RMB13.2 million ( $2.0 million ), compared to RMB11.5 million in the corresponding period of 2018. expenses were ( ) in the first quarter of 2019, compared to in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was primarily due to an increase in salaries and benefits of sales and marketing staff and offline execution expenses. Sales and marketing expenses for the first quarter of 2019 included share-based compensation expenses of ( ), compared to in the corresponding period of 2018. General and administrative expenses were RMB67.8 million ( $10.1 million ) in the first quarter of 2019, compared to RMB62.9 million in the corresponding period of 2018. General and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2019 included share-based compensation expenses of RMB14.9 million ( $2.2 million ), compared to RMB12.2 million in the corresponding period of 2018. expenses were ( ) in the first quarter of 2019, compared to in the corresponding period of 2018. General and administrative expenses for the first quarter of 2019 included share-based compensation expenses of ( ), compared to in the corresponding period of 2018. Product development expenses were RMB268.6 million ( $40.0 million ) in the first quarter of 2019 compared to RMB228.8 million in the corresponding period of 2018. The increase was primarily due to an increase in salaries and benefits to product development staff. Product development expenses for the first quarter of 2019 included share-based compensation expenses of RMB21.2 million ( $3.2 million ), compared to RMB11.3 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Operating Profit Operating profit increased by 25.7% to RMB657.5 million ($98.0 million) from RMB523.2 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Income tax expense Income tax expense increased by 15.0% to RMB119.5 million ($17.8 million) in the first quarter of 2019, from RMB103.9 million in the corresponding period of 2018, primarily attributable to an increase in taxable income. Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. and EPS Net income attributable to Autohome Inc. increased by 33.9% to RMB646.3 million ($96.3 million) from RMB482.8 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Basic and diluted earnings per share/per ADS or "EPS" were RMB5.47 ($0.82) and RMB5.41($0.81), respectively, compared to basic and diluted EPS of RMB4.11 and RMB4.05, respectively, in the corresponding period of 2018. Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP) and Non-GAAP EPS Adjusted net income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP), defined as net income attributable to Autohome Inc. excluding share-based compensation expenses and amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions, increased by 34.7% to RMB700.6 million ($104.4 million) from RMB520.0 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS were RMB5.93 ($0.88) and RMB5.87 ($0.87), respectively, compared to non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS of RMB4.43 and RMB4.36, respectively, in the corresponding period of 2018. Balance Sheet and Cash Flow As of March 31, 2019, the Company had cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of RMB10.48 billion ($1,561.0 million). Net cash provided by operating activities in the first quarter of 2019 was RMB418.0 million ($62.3 million). Employees The Company had 4,295 employees as of March 31, 2019. Business Outlook Autohome currently expects to generate net revenues in the range of RMB2,275.0 million ($339.0 million) to RMB2,305.0 million ($343.5 million) in the second quarter of fiscal year 2019, representing a 21.7% to 23.3% year-over-year increase. This forecast reflects the Company's current and preliminary view on the market and its operating conditions, which are subject to change. Conference Call Information The Company will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 (8:00 PM Beijing Time on the same day). Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows: United States: +1-855-824-5644 Hong Kong: +852-3027-6500 China Domestic: 8009-880-563 United Kingdom: 0800-026-1542 International: +1 646-722-4977 Passcode: 83021438# Please dial in ten minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and provide the passcode to join the call. A replay of the conference call may be accessed by phone at the following numbers until May 14, 2019: United States: +1-646-982-0473 International: +61-2-8325-2405 Passcode: 319317203# Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available at http://ir.autohome.com.cn. About Autohome Inc. Autohome Inc. (NYSE: ATHM) is the leading online destination for automobile consumers in China. Its mission is to enhance the car-buying and ownership experience for auto consumers in China. Autohome provides professionally produced and user-generated content, a comprehensive automobile library, and extensive automobile listing information to automobile consumers, covering the entire car purchase and ownership cycle. The ability to reach a large and engaged user base of automobile consumers has made Autohome a preferred platform for automakers and dealers to conduct their advertising campaigns. Further, the Company's dealer subscription and advertising services allow dealers to market their inventory and services through Autohome's platform, extending the reach of their physical showrooms to potentially millions of internet users in China and generating sales leads for them. The Company offers sales leads, data analysis, and marketing services to assist automakers and dealers with improving their efficiency and facilitating transactions. As a transaction-centric company, Autohome operates its "Autohome Mall," a full-service online transaction platform, to facilitate transactions for automakers and dealers. Further, through its websites and mobile applications, it also provides other value-added services, including auto financing, auto insurance, used car transactions, and aftermarket services. For further information, please visit www.autohome.com.cn. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will", "expects", "anticipates", "future", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates" and similar statements. Among other things, Autohome's business outlook, Autohome's strategic and operational plans and quotations from management in this announcement contain forward-looking statements. Autohome may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Autohome's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Autohome's goals and strategies; Autohome's future business development, results of operations and financial condition; the expected growth of the online automobile advertising market in China; Autohome's ability to attract and retain users and advertisers and further enhance its brand recognition; Autohome's expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its products and services; competition in the online automobile advertising industry; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Autohome's filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Autohome does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law. Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures To supplement net income presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, we use Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc., Non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS and Adjusted EBITDA as non-GAAP financial measures. We define Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. as net income attributable to Autohome Inc. excluding share-based compensation expenses and amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions. We define Non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS as Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. divided by the basic and diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income attributable to Autohome Inc. before income tax expense/(benefit), depreciation expenses of property and equipment and amortization expenses of intangible assets and share-based compensation expenses. We present these non-GAAP financial measures because they are used by our management to evaluate our operating performance, in addition to net income prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures are important to help investors understand our operating and financial performance, compare business trends among different reporting periods on a consistent basis and assess our core operating results, as they exclude certain expenses that are not expected to result in cash payments. The use of the above non-GAAP financial measures has certain limitations. Share-based compensation expenses have been and will continue to be incurred in the future and are not reflected in the presentation of the non-GAAP financial measures, but should be considered in the overall evaluation of our results. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, but should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. For more information on these non-GAAP financial measures, please see the table captioned "Reconciliation of non-GAAP and GAAP Results" set forth at the end of this press release. For investor and media inquiries, please contact: In China: Autohome Inc. Investor Relations Anita Chen Tel: +86-10-5985-7483 Email: [email protected] The Piacente Group, Inc. Xi Zhang Tel: +86-10-5730-6200 E-mail: [email protected] In the United States: The Piacente Group, Inc. Brandi Piacente Tel: +1-212-481-2050 E-mail: [email protected] AUTOHOME INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS DATA (Amount in thousands, except per share data) For three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 RMB RMB US$ (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) Net revenues: Media services 584,150 643,235 95,845 Leads generation services 610,830 734,087 109,382 Online marketplace and others 93,074 234,606 34,957 Total net revenues 1,288,054 1,611,928 240,184 Cost of revenues (146,141) (184,454) (27,485) Gross profit 1,141,913 1,427,474 212,699 Operating expenses: Sales and marketing expenses (398,032) (509,724) (75,951) General and administrative expenses (62,880) (67,758) (10,096) Product development expenses (228,790) (268,573) (40,019) Total operating expenses (689,702) (846,055) (126,066) Other income, net 70,996 76,038 11,330 Operating profit 523,207 657,457 97,963 Interest income 64,042 114,221 17,019 Loss from equity method investments (1,890) (1,582) (236) Fair value change of other non-current assets - (4,026) (600) Income before income taxes 585,359 766,070 114,146 Income tax expense (103,905) (119,525) (17,810) Net income 481,454 646,545 96,336 Net loss/(income) attributable to noncontrolling interests 1,329 (236) (35) Net income attributable to Autohome Inc. 482,783 646,309 96,301 Earnings per share for ordinary shares Basic 4.11 5.47 0.82 Diluted 4.05 5.41 0.81 Weighted average shares used to compute earnings per share attributable to common stockholders: Basic 117,323,795 118,229,887 118,229,887 Diluted 119,164,166 119,385,615 119,385,615 AUTOHOME INC. RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP AND GAAP RESULTS (Amount in thousands, except per share data) For three months ended March 31, 2018 2019 RMB RMB US$ (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) Net income attributable to Autohome Inc. 482,783 646,309 96,301 Plus: income tax expense 103,905 119,525 17,810 Plus: depreciation of property and equipment 21,263 25,326 3,774 Plus: amortization of intangible assets 2,904 2,917 435 EBITDA 610,855 794,077 118,320 Plus: share-based compensation expenses 36,035 53,187 7,925 Adjusted EBITDA 646,890 847,264 126,245 Net income attributable to Autohome Inc. 482,783 646,309 96,301 Plus: amortization of acquired intangible assets of Cheerbright, China Topside and Norstar 1,138 1,139 170 Plus: share-based compensation expenses 36,035 53,187 7,925 Adjusted Net Income attributable to Autohome Inc. 519,956 700,635 104,396 Non-GAAP Earnings per share for ordinary shares Basic 4.43 5.93 0.88 Diluted 4.36 5.87 0.87 Weighted average shares used to compute earnings per share attributable to common stockholders: Basic 117,323,795 118,229,887 118,229,887 Diluted 119,164,166 119,385,615 119,385,615 AUTOHOME INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET[4] (Amount in thousands, except as noted) As of December 31, As of March 31, 2018 2019 RMB RMB US$ (Audited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 211,970 868,769 129,451 Short-term investments 9,849,488 9,607,613 1,431,579 Accounts and notes receivable, net 2,795,835 2,649,263 394,753 Amounts due from related parties, current 34,047 44,664 6,655 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 249,977 483,467 72,039 Total current assets 13,141,317 13,653,776 2,034,477 Non-current assets Restricted cash, non-current 5,000 5,000 745 Property and equipment, net 170,198 148,149 22,075 Goodwill and intangible assets, net 1,543,682 1,540,765 229,581 Long-term investments 70,979 69,397 10,340 Deferred tax assets 90,179 99,577 14,837 Other non-current assets 734,846 889,983 132,612 Total non-current assets 2,614,884 2,752,871 410,190 Total assets 15,756,201 16,406,647 2,444,667 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Current liabilities Accrued expenses and other payables 2,439,948 2,284,155 340,350 Advance from customers 75,017 98,027 14,606 Deferred revenue 1,510,726 1,502,220 223,838 Income tax payable 119,210 157,973 23,539 Amounts due to related parties 19,868 26,867 4,003 Total current liabilities 4,164,769 4,069,242 606,336 Non-current liabilities Other liabilities 24,068 60,568 9,025 Deferred tax liabilities 455,921 447,079 66,617 Total non-current liabilities 479,989 507,647 75,642 Total liabilities 4,644,758 4,576,889 681,978 Equity Total Autohome Inc. Shareholders' equity 11,135,278 11,853,357 1,766,205 Noncontrolling interests (23,835) (23,599) (3,516) Total equity 11,111,443 11,829,758 1,762,689 Total liabilities and equity 15,756,201 16,406,647 2,444,667 [4] In February 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases ("ASU 2016-02"). Under the new provisions, all lessees will report a right-of-use asset and a liability for the obligation to make payments for all leases with the exception of those leases with a term of 12 months or less. The Company has finalized its analysis and the most significant impact is the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for operating lease related to office buildings and internet data center ("IDC") facilities. The Company adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2019 using the modified retrospective method, with the comparative information not being restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods. As of March 31, 2019, operating lease right-of-use assets (included in other non-current assets) of RMB154.7 million (US$23.1 million), operating lease liabilities, current (included in accrued expenses and other payables and amounts due to related parties) of RMB116.7 million (US$17.4 million) and operating lease liabilities, non-current (included in other liabilities) of RMB36.5 million (US$5.4 million) was recognized on the consolidated balance sheet. SOURCE Autohome Inc. Related Links http://ir.autohome.com.cn CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - BMO Harris Bank today announced the appointment of Tracie Morris as U.S. Chief Human Resources Officer. Morris' appointment is effective immediately. "Tracie is an exceptional talent, known for her strong leadership skills, her community involvement and her passionate advocacy for her fellow colleagues," said David Casper, U.S. CEO, BMO Financial Group. "She will play a key role in our ability to attract and retain top talent as we continue to accelerate our growth in the U.S." Based in Chicago, Tracie will serve as the Head of Human Resources for all U.S. operations, including governance, regulatory and board issues. She will also be responsible for HR leadership and support to the Personal & Business Banking and Commercial Banking teams. Morris' role was previously held by Larissa Chaikowsky, who was recently named Chief Operating Officer, BMO Wealth Management U.S. Morris has been in HR leadership roles for over 20 years, including the last seven with Exelon Corporation and Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd). She is a member of the Board of Directors for Girl Scouts of America, Business Leadership Council, Women Employed and Black Ensemble Theatre. She is also a Strategic Human Resources and Cognitive Mechanism Research professor at the University of Lyon in France. Morris holds a bachelor's degree in organizational communications from North Central College and a master's degree in management and organizational behaviors from Benedictine University. About BMO Harris Bank BMO Harris Bank provides a broad range of personal banking products and solutions through nearly 600 branches and fee-free access to over 40,000 ATMs across the United States. BMO Harris Bank's commercial banking team provides a combination of sector expertise, local knowledge and mid-market focus throughout the United States. For more information about BMO Harris Bank, visit the company fact sheet. Accounts are subject to approval. BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. BMO Harris Bank is part of BMO Financial Group, a highly diversified financial services provider with total assets of CDN$807 billion (as of January 31, 2019), and more than 45,000 employees. SOURCE BMO Harris Bank MONTREAL, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Boralex Inc. ("Boralex" or the "Corporation") (TSX: BLX) held its 35th Annual Meeting of Shareholders earlier this morning. At the meeting led by Chairman of the Board of Directors Alain Rheaume, the nominees proposed for election as directors were elected. During the meeting, President and CEO Patrick Lemaire and Vice-President and CFO Bruno Guilmette presented the highlights from 2018 as well as Boralex's outlook for growth in a rapidly evolving key industry. Below are the highlights of this year's meeting. Key remarks from the Chairman of the Board Mr. Rheaume opened by recognizing the contribution of all Boralex employees in building a successful business which saw a highly positive year in 2018 and consolidated its position as a leading player in the renewable energy sector. He also noted that Boralex's teams have the expertise to meet the challenges of the coming years, as the business will need to leverage the agility that has driven its success to adapt its strategy and business model to reflect the significant changes in electricity markets. Key remarks from the President and CEO Mr. Lemaire emphasized that Boralex had posted a record year, adding nearly 500 MW of production capacity in 2018, and that the business would achieve its planned 2020 target a year ahead of schedule, in the coming months of 2019. He also discussed Boralex's favourable outlook for the years ahead in an environment where climate change is driving the accelerated use of lower carbon forms of energy across the globe, and reiterated that Boralex will become a more influential renewable energy player than ever by continuing to contribute to responsible and sustainable community economic development as it has in the past. Key remarks from the Vice-President and CFO Mr. Guilmette highlighted Boralex's $641 million investment in 2018 for the acquisition of Kallista's assets in France and Invenergy's interests in five wind farms in Canada, and the commissioning of six wind farms. In addition, Mr. Guilmette discussed the 13% growth in Combined production1, 11% growth in Combined EBITDA(A) and 10% growth in declared dividends in 2018, and stressed that the investments made in 2018 would contribute more to bottom line in 2019. The first quarter results released earlier this morning support this conclusion, as Combined production grew 39% and Combined EBITDA(A) rose 34% compared with the first quarter of 2018. Finally, Mr. Guilmette emphasized the importance of long-term value creation with making short-term tactical adjustments as needed. Further to this, on June 18, Boralex will release its updated strategic plan and financial objectives for the coming years at an investor meeting to be held in Toronto. Election of directors At the meeting, the director nominees proposed for election in the management information circular dated March 12, 2019 were elected as directors of Boralex. The detailed voting results from the annual meeting of shareholders appear below. All nominees proposed by management were elected by show of hands. The proxies received by management for the election of directors were as follows: Nominee For Withheld # % # % Patrick Lemaire 65,594,909 99.94% 39,578 0.06% Andre Courville 65,408,382 99.66% 226,104 0.34% Lise Croteau 65,596,207 99.94% 38,279 0.06% Ghyslain Deschamps 65,598,532 99.95% 35,954 0.05% Alain Ducharme 65,599,151 99.95% 35,335 0.05% Marie-Claude Dumas 65,594,854 99.94% 39,632 0.06% Marie Giguere 64,875,118 98.84% 759,368 1.16% Edward H. Kernaghan 62,254,860 94.85% 3,379,626 5.15% Yves Rheault 63,852,363 97.28% 1,782,123 2.72% Alain Rheaume 65,531,224 99.84% 103,262 0.16% Dany St-Pierre 64,872,520 98.84% 761,967 1.16% The final voting results on all matters voted at the annual meeting held earlier today will be filed with the Canadian securities regulators. About Boralex Boralex develops, builds and operates renewable energy power facilities in Canada, France and the United States. A leader in the Canadian market and France's largest independent producer of onshore wind power, the Corporation is recognized for its solid experience in optimizing its asset base in four power generation types wind, hydroelectric, thermal and solar. Boralex ensures sustained growth by leveraging the expertise and diversification developed over the past 25 years. Boralex's shares and convertible debentures are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbols BLX and BLX.DB.A, respectively. More information is available at www.boralex.com or www.sedar.com. Caution regarding forward-looking statements Some of the statements contained in this press release, including those regarding future results and performance, are forward-looking statements based on current expectations, within the meaning of securities legislation. Boralex would like to point out that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties such that its results or the measures it adopts could differ materially from those indicated by or underlying these statements, or could have an impact on the degree of realization of a particular forward-looking statement. The main factors that could lead to a material difference between the Corporation's actual results and the forward-looking financial information or expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the general impact of economic conditions, currency fluctuations, volatility in energy selling prices, the Corporation's financing capacity, competition, changes in general market conditions, the regulations governing the industry and raw material price increases and availability, regulatory disputes and other issues related to projects in operation or under development, well as certain other factors described in the documents filed by the Corporation with the different securities commissions. Unless otherwise specified by the Corporation, the forward-looking statements do not take into account the possible impact on its activities, transactions, non-recurring items or other exceptional items announced or occurring after the statements are made. There can be no assurance as to the materialization of the results, performance or achievements as expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Unless required to do so under applicable securities legislation, Boralex management does not assume any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or other changes. The data expressed as a percentage is calculated using amounts in thousands of dollars. Combined Non-IFRS measure The combined information ("Combined") presented above and in the MD&A of the Corporation resulted from the combination of the financial information of Boralex Inc. ("Boralex" or the "Corporation") under IFRS and the share of the financial information of the Interests. The Interests represent significant investments by Boralex and although IFRS does not permit the consolidation of their financial information within that of Boralex, management considers that information on a Combined basis is useful data to evaluate the Corporation's performance. In order to prepare the Combined information, Boralex first prepares its financial statements and those of the Interests in accordance with IFRS. Then, the Interests in Joint Ventures and associates, Share in earnings of the Joint Ventures and associates and Distributions received from the Joint Ventures and associates line items are replaced by Boralex's respective share (ranging from 50% to 59.96%) in the financial statement items of the Interests (revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, etc.). See the Non- IFRS measures section in the First Quarter 2019 Interim Report for more information. _______________________________ 1 The growth percentage showed in the press release are presented on a Combined basis, in comparison to these disclosed in accordance with IFRS. See "Combined Non-IFRS measure" in the First Quarter 2019 Interim Report. For comparison purposes, the growth percentage in accordance to IFRS are: 2018 production 22%, 2018 EBITDA(A) 5%, Q1-2019 production 21% and Q1-2019 EBITDA(A) 26%. SOURCE Boralex Inc. Related Links www.boralex.com CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Brandwatch the $100m leader in social intelligence previewed its new Consumer Research flagship product to an audience of 500 brands just six months after its merger with Crimson Hexagon. The reveal took place at Brandwatch's annual Now You Know conference which brings together the best and brightest minds in social and consumer data. The product demonstration of Brandwatch Consumer Research showed how an entirely new powerhouse is bringing together the best technologies from both merged companies, with Brandwatch's famously intuitive front-end liberating Crimson Hexagon's widely-respected machine learning and best-in-market historical data archive. "This isn't just a merged product it's better than anything else on the market because we're innovating as we bring the technologies together," said Bex Carson, Chief Product Officer of Brandwatch. At the product keynote in Chicago, Carson and Brandwatch founder and CEO Giles Palmer jointly unveiled a new product strategy integrating the company's assets in Brandwatch, Crimson Hexagon, Buzzsumo, Vizia and its latest acquisition Qriously into a unified consumer intelligence suite. "Buzzsumo is the leader in content marketing intelligence. Brandwatch and Crimson are leaders in social intelligence. Qriously is leading innovation in mobile polling. Nobody else has this combination of technologies and can give customers this depth and breadth of insights into their business questions and challenges," said Palmer. "Market research is a $40bn business and its future is combining different data types, faster, more intelligently. Our intelligence suite is giving customers a 360-degree picture by doing exactly this." Concluding the product keynote, Chris Kahler, CEO of new acquisition Qriously, wowed the Chicago audience with a live demo of real-time survey functionality, showing how Brandwatch clients will be able to bring in targeted insights directly from participating consumers, all into their Brandwatch integrated intelligence suite. With the solid progress in product innovation, today marks the moment that the Crimson Hexagon identity is sunsetted and the firm moves forward as a single, integrated organization under the Brandwatch brand, with 39 of the Fortune 100 as clients, a staff of more than 500 worldwide and offices in 10 locations. "This marks the start of our new phase as a business we're incredibly excited to show our customers more in the coming months about how they will power their most important brand and marketing decisions with us," said Palmer. For more information contact us at Brandwatch.com . About Brandwatch Brandwatch is the world's pioneering digital consumer intelligence suite, helping over 2,000 of the planet's most admired brands and agencies including Unilever, Walmart and Dell to make insightful, data-driven business decisions. The company has made three acquisitions to date: PeerIndex (2013), BuzzSumo (2017) as a standalone content marketing platform, and Qriously (2019) to diversify its voice of the customer data offering. Additionally, the company was bolstered by its merger with Crimson Hexagon (2018) to create the most comprehensive, AI-powered social intelligence solution. Brandwatch has offices around the globe including Brighton, Boston, New York, London, San Francisco, Berlin, Stuttgart, Paris, Sydney and Singapore. www.brandwatch.com | @Brandwatch | press office | contact Contact: Kellan Terry, 347-382-0668, [email protected] SOURCE Brandwatch Related Links http://www.brandwatch.com NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog is pleased to announce that the official bronze statue of Sgt. Stubby, a distinguished World War I war dog will be housed permanently at the AKC Museum of the Dog. The sculpture will be unveiled on May 23, 2019. The statue, "Stubby Salutes," created by renowned sculptor Susan Bahary, is a life sized bronze of the bull terrier mix. Stubby is widely regarded as the U.S Army's first service dog. His service began in 1917 when he wandered on to the camp of the 102nd Infantry Regiment of the 26th Yankee Division at Yale. He formed a bond with a young solider named Robert Conroy who named him "Stubby." Conroy subsequently smuggled Stubby on his ship when it was time to ship out. Stubby served in France for 18 months and a total of 17 battles. His heroic feats included: warning his unit of looming mustard gas attacks, locating wounded soldiers on the battlefield and sitting beside them until help arrived, and capturing a German spy by grabbing at the seat of his pants. Over the course of his service, he was injured by mustard gas and a grenade. Stubby is remembered for his bravery and also as a treasured mascot who brought joy to embattled soldiers. As a veteran, he was awarded a medal for his bravery by General John J. Pershing and met three presidents. This April marked the 100th anniversary of Stubby's return to the US to a hero's welcome. "We are very excited to welcome "Stubby Salutes" to our Museum collection," said Alan Fausel, Executive Director of the AKC Museum of the Dog. "His courage and dedication to our country has laid the foundation for today's military working dogs and we look forward to sharing him with the public and educating them about his place in history." Susan Bahary, an internationally acclaimed artist, was commissioned by the descendants of Robert Conroy to memorialize Stubby in his rare salute pose, a pose which won him the favor of his fellow soldiers and officers. Her other works include "Always Faithful," the United States first official war dog monument that commemorated the 25 dogs who perished in the taking of Guam during World War II. "Always Faithful" is a part of the Museum of the Dog's collection. "It has been an honor to create this bronze monument to commemorate Sgt. Stubby," says Bahary. "His right paw represents his deeds for our country and his left paw represents his friendly and giving nature. His contributions to our military, along with his loyalty and bravery are symbolic of all the wonderful working dogs that protect us and service animals that benefit and enrich our lives today." The AKC Museum of the Dog, founded in 1982, was originally housed in The New York Life Building located at 51 Madison Avenue as part of the AKC Headquarters. In 1987, the Museum was moved to West St. Louis County, MO. The Museum made its return to New York City in a new location in February 2019 and houses one of the largest repositories of canine art in the world, including paintings, porcelains, bronzes, trophies and digital displays. The Museum is dedicated to education and preservation of purebred dogs. The original casting of the sculpture is on permanent display at the "Connecticut Trees of Honor" Memorial at the Veterans Memorial Park In Middletown, CT. About the AKC Museum of the Dog Founded in 1982, The AKC Museum of the Dog is dedicated to the collection, preservation, exhibition, and interpretation of the art, artifacts and literature of the dog for the purposes of education, historical perspective, aesthetic enjoyment and to enhance the appreciation for and knowledge of the significance of the dog and the human/canine relationship. Located in New York City, the Museum is home to several hundred paintings, drawings, watercolors, prints, sculptures, bronzes, and porcelain figurines, a variety of decorative arts objects and interactive displays depicting man's best friend throughout the ages. The AKC Museum of the Dog is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization funded mainly by private and corporate gift donations. For more information on the AKC Museum of the Dog visit www.Museumofthedog.org Become a fan of the AKC Museum of the Dog on Facebook at akcmuseumofthedog SOURCE American Kennel Club "We are honored to be named ENR's Southwest Design Firm of the Year," says Patrick Edwards , vice president and general manager for Burns & McDonnell in Arizona. "Whether it's supporting our regional utility clients in power generation, delivery and storage or designing critical infrastructure for our cities, universities and businesses, our focus begins with two key things: providing exceptional service to our clients and hiring the very best talent." With continued strength in renewable energy services, manufacturing and large program management, Burns & McDonnell's revenue in the Southwest region was $49 million in 2018, rising 25% from 2016. The firm, which also offers services for power generation, transmission infrastructure, environmental remediation, manufacturing, industrial, aviation and higher education facility projects, supports clients including Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, Southwest Airlines, ASARCO, Arizona State University, University of Arizona and Tucson Electric Power. The 121-year-old firm opened its first Arizona office in Phoenix in 1999. Over the past decade, Burns & McDonnell has become known in power and renewable energy for projects such as the 23-MW Big Bend Power Station for Tampa Electric Co., which is the single-largest source of solar power in the Tampa, Florida, area and features more than 202,000 solar panels. The Phoenix team also worked on the Ivanpah Solar Thermal Power facility in California, the largest of its kind in the world. In 2018, Burns & McDonnell grew its Arizona footprint, opening an office in Tucson. Today, the 7,000-employee international firm has grown its team to more than 100 full-time associates in Phoenix and Tucson, with plans to continue hiring engineers, scientists, construction professionals and consultants. The growth in Arizona reflects the firm's growth overall, now more than 1,000 professionals annually. For photos and support materials, please visit our MEDIA KIT. About Burns & McDonnell Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies made up of 7,000 engineers, architects, construction professionals, scientists, consultants and entrepreneurs with offices across the country and throughout the world. We strive to create amazing success for our clients and amazing careers for our employee-owners. Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned and is proud to be on Fortune's 2019 list of 100 Best Companies to Work For. For more information, visit burnsmcd.com . Contact: Lydia Schroeder, Burns & McDonnell 812-630-0796 [email protected] SOURCE Burns & McDonnell Related Links http://burnsmcd.com The initial outlook from Colorado State University, considered the nation's top forecaster, calls for a slightly below average season with 13 tropical storms (wind speeds of 39 mph or higher) and five hurricanes (74 mph or higher winds) forming in the Atlantic Ocean during the six-month period that officially begins on Saturday, June 1. Last year was considered an above average season with 15 named storms and eight hurricanes, two of which were considered major, including Florence, which dropped nearly 36 inches of rain on North Carolina, and Michael, whose 155-mile-per-hour winds battered the Florida panhandle and produced 39 fatalities and $16 billion in damages. "2018 was an active season with two major hurricanes making landfall on U.S. soil," said Mark Rigney, Senior Vice President of Core Network for C Spire. "With nearly 38 million people living in hurricane-prone coastal areas, we can't afford to let our guard down. Now is the time for individuals, families and businesses to prepare their emergency plans, create emergency supply kits and learn evacuation routes." In conjunction with state and federal hurricane season preparedness efforts, C Spire is offering consumers and businesses the following tips and advice on essential communications during this storm season: Consumer Tips - Before the Storm Charge your primary wireless phone battery and secure back-up batteries and a vehicle charger in a dry, accessible location. Use waterproof accessories or simple zip-lock storage bags to protect devices. Take photographs and videos of all your important possessions with a camera or video and send them to your email address. If a hurricane damages your home or property, these items will help you file your wind or flood insurance claim. Consider storing important documents and personal items in a storage facility away from the threat of any major storm, wind or water damage. Take photographs for your records and store on a portable drive or cloud-based service. Plan and practice a hurricane evacuation route with your family and leave immediately when directed by local authorities. Designate an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as your family contact person and make sure everyone in your family knows the contact person's name, address and phone number. Text or email the contact information with your phone or computer. Maintain a list of emergency phone numbers for police, fire, rescue agencies, power companies, insurance providers and family, friends and co-workers and program them into your phone or email address book. Give your emergency contact information to those who may need it, including neighbors, family and friends. Track wind and storm surge information through the web browser on your laptop, tablet or mobile phone. Prepare an emergency supply kit with items, including a flashlight and battery-powered radio with extra batteries, canned and non-perishable food, bottled water, toiletry items, pet food and supplies, medicine and prescription medication and copies of important family papers and documents. Download free weather and safety-related applications like The Weather Channel, FEMA and the National Weather Service for smartphones, tablets and other devices. Consumer Tips - During and After the Storm Use a battery-operated weather radio to get the latest storm information. Limit travel in hurricane-prone areas, which should be closed, and use extreme caution. Do not drive through flooded roadways or attempt to cross flowing streams. Place voice calls only when necessary. Limit your personal calls so that capacity is available for 9-1-1 calls and other emergency responders. When possible, send text messages instead of placing voice calls. Text messages require less network capacity and are more likely than voice calls to reach their destination during periods of network congestion. Charge your mobile phone in your car during commercial power outages. If a car charger is unavailable, buy an AC adapter for your vehicle so you can use your wall charger. Turn backlight down on your mobile phone to the minimum levels to conserve battery life. When the battery is extremely low, turn phone off unless in use. Use a camera on your mobile phone to document damage to your personal property, home or business and use picture and video messaging to send them to insurance agents or other contacts. Business Tips Before, During and After the Storm Set up call forwarding to an alternate location as a hotline for employees, their families, customers, vendors and suppliers to call for updates on your business status and emergency planning. Maintain an updated employee contact list, including home and cell phone numbers and e-mail addresses. Protect mission-critical data, hardware and records by periodically backing up files to an off-site location. Use a generator as backup power for computer hardware and other essential equipment. To aid a prompt business recovery, have a plan ready to implement for replacement of damaged hardware. Train employees on evacuation and shelter plans. Establish a backup location for your business and an employee assembly point. Use a crisis-management team to coordinate efforts with nearby businesses and building management. Develop and implement a plan for supply chain continuity for essential elements of your business. "The bottom line is preparation," Rigney said. "While weather professionals continue to improve the accuracy of their hurricane forecasts, individuals, businesses and communities need to work together to develop and implement comprehensive plans to effectively prepare for, respond to and recover from severe weather events." For more information about emergency planning and communcation tips, visit the National Hurricane Center (NHC) or Ready.gov. For a free hurricane safety sheet, go to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency also offers a free hurricane preparedness guide. About C Spire C Spire is a diversified telecommunications and technology services company that provides world-class, customer-inspired wireless communications, 1 Gigabit consumer Internet access as well as a full suite of dedicated Internet, wireless, IP Voice, data, cloud and managed services for businesses. This news release and other announcements are available at www.cspire.com/news. For more information about C Spire, visit www.cspire.com or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cspire or Twitter at www.twitter.com/cspire. SOURCE C Spire Related Links http://www.cspire.com Rick Wood Transitions into Executive Advisory Role TORONTO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Canada Goose (NYSE: GOOS, TSX: GOOS) today announced the promotion of Ana Mihaljevic to Chief Commercial Officer. In her new role, Ana will oversee the company's global commercial business including sales planning and operations, with a strong focus on driving continued growth in wholesale and direct to consumer channels, as well as international expansion. Rick Wood, who previously served as Chief Commercial Officer, will move into a new role, serving as Executive Advisor on key strategic projects. Bringing more than a decade of experience in luxury apparel from working with leading global brands including Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, and Jones Apparel, Ana joined Canada Goose in 2015 and most recently served as Senior Vice President, Planning and Sales Operations. With a passion for building dynamic teams and driving exceptional results, she built the planning team from the ground up and significantly optimized operations during the company's evolution from a manufacturer into a leading global retailer. "We have come a long way in a short time, but I think our journey has just begun. The opportunities for this company are endless and I'm thrilled to be leading the team that is chasing them down and executing with excellence," said Mihaljevic. In his new position, Rick will advise on several strategic commercial endeavors including working closely with Baffin Limited, a business the company recently acquired. Rick has over 20 years of experience in the retail, apparel and footwear industries working for global brands including The North Face, Vans and Timberland. "Ana is a passionate leader with an intuitive entrepreneurial spirit and an ability to execute flawlessly in a high-growth and always-evolving organization. This promotion reflects her success in rising to the challenge of leading our continued global growth as we build this brand into an enduring legacy," said Dani Reiss, President & CEO, Canada Goose. "I am grateful for all of Rick's accomplishments over the last two years, most notably in completing his mandate to bring together our commercial processes into a single, collaborative and dynamic function. I am very excited to work with him in this new capacity." About Canada Goose Inc. Founded in a small warehouse in Toronto, Canada in 1957, Canada Goose has grown into one of the world's leading makers of performance luxury apparel. Every collection is informed by the rugged demands of the Arctic and inspired by relentless innovation and uncompromised craftsmanship. From Antarctic research facilities and the Canadian High Arctic, to the streets of New York, London, Milan, Paris, and Tokyo, people are proud to wear Canada Goose products. Employing more than 3,800 people worldwide, Canada Goose is a recognized leader for its Made in Canada commitment, and is a long-time partner of Polar Bears International. Visit canadagoose.com for more information. SOURCE Canada Goose TORONTO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Cannabis Growth Opportunity Corporation ("CGOC", or the "Company") (CSE: CGOC), a cannabis-focused investment corporation with both public and private cannabis holdings, is pleased to announce a new investment within its private portfolio in C3 Centre Holding Inc. (C3 Cannabis Innovation Centre, or "C3") is working towards becoming a world-leading cannabis business accelerator providing companies with access production facilities to nurture growth and provide access to capital. C3 contributes to the emergence and growth of innovative cannabis derived products, technologies and pharmaceuticals by providing companies with access to facilities dedicated to R&D and early production activities within an environment that drives creativity and collaboration. C3 mitigates start up risk by nurturing companies' growth, providing access to capital and reducing costs associated with commercialization. C3 seeks to be an agent of transformation through an entrepreneurial spirit, generating innovation from the ideas that grow within its community and translating that innovation into industry leaders. C3 provides companies wanting to enter the cannabis industry with simplicity and speed to market, in a vibrant and inclusive landscape. C3's facility in Vaudreuil-Dorion is a state-of-the-art campus built in the 70s, and was originally designed for pharmaceutical production, making it ideal for the needs of cannabis growers, producers, processors and researchers. The campus includes approximately 180,000 square feet of secure warehouse space, a network of underground bunkers and tunnels designed to link labs and manufacturing facilities, a full security perimeter with gated entry, a four-storey, 40,000-square-foot lab facility for research and testing, a twelve-storey office tower with five 12,000-square-foot areas for craft growing, along with meeting rooms, office space, a cafeteria and a 158-seat auditorium. C3 has also partnered with McGill University, making lab and office space available to McGill researchers. Jamie Blundell, President and Chief Operating Officer of CGOC commented, "We are excited to be a part of the C3 journey, as they foster the development of early stage cannabis companies. They are in a great location, situated just outside of Montreal, Quebec, which is a major export partner to Europe, including Germany, France, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. They have a solid team in place, and a unique business strategy which we are very supportive of. This investment ties into our diversified investment thesis by investing in differentiated business models within cannabis value chain." CGOC invested $500,000 for 1,000,000 shares in C3, which represents approximately 3.3% of the private portfolio, and have committed to participate in their current raise which has not yet closed. About C3 C3 is Quebec's world-class cannabis center site where a portfolio of companies resides, creating an ecosystem comprised within cultivation, extraction, food transformation, research and education, collaborate to bring visionary ideas and standout products to market. With a world-class pharmaceutical complex strategically located along a provincial highway and minutes from a major airport, C3 is focused on collaborating with LP's and extractors, offering downstream consumer products and being a pharma & biotech incubator. For more information please visit www.c3.farm About CGOC CGOC is an investment corporation that offers unique global exposure to the emerging global cannabis sector. CGOC's main objective is to provide shareholders long-term total return through its actively managed portfolio of securities, both public and private, operating in, or that derive a portion of their revenue or earnings from products or services related to the cannabis industry. Sign up here and be included in our email blasts to receive timely updates. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE Cannabis Growth Opportunity Corporation Related Links http://cgocorp.com/ PALATINE, Ill., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Capital Forensics, Inc. (CFI) announced today that Rich Randa has joined the firm as Senior Advisor Packaged Products, Insurance & Trusts; expanding CFI's team of highly experienced regulatory and compliance professionals who provide a broad range of advisory services for firms in the financial services industry and their outside legal counsel. Over the past 3 decades, Mr. Randa was a senior manager involved in multiple product lines; notably, annuities, retirement plans, insurance, and trust services. His expertise includes all facets of product selection, operations management, regulatory supervision and compliance, and risk management. Rich Randa has joined Capital Forensics Inc. as Senior Advisor - Packaged Products, Insurance & Trusts; expanding CFI's team of highly experienced regulatory and compliance professionals who provide a broad range of advisory services for firms in the financial services industry and their outside legal counsel. Over the past 3 decades, Mr. Randa was a senior manager involved in multiple product lines; notably, annuities, retirement plans, insurance, and trust services. Most recently, Mr. Randa served as a Managing Director at Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, where he led a team of 65 professionals, with responsibility for ensuring product integrity, oversight of operational issues, and application of supervisory best practices. He also was engaged in that firm's interaction with regulatory agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Department of Labor (DOL). In that capacity, he was a contributor to the proposed DOL fiduciary rules. Capital Forensics' Chairman and CEO, Vadim Khavinson, said, "Rich Randa brings product knowledge as well as operational and risk management insights that are of increasing importance to CFI's financial services clients. As the population ages, there will be much greater need for expertise and guidance related to retirement-based products that are focused on capital preservation and portfolio protection. Rich will provide our clients with authoritative and reliable counsel on these products and services." Mr. Randa holds a B.S. degree in Accounting from Virginia Tech, and has passed both CPA and CFP certifications. He holds several FINRA Securities Industry licenses, and until recently, held an insurance license. He previously served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Variable Annuities (NAVA), which is currently known as the Insured Retirement Institute (IRI). About Capital Forensics, Inc. Founded in 1993, Capital Forensics, Inc. (CFI) provides data analysis, expert testimony, litigation support and regulatory consulting for the financial services industry. CFI's clients range from financial institutions including broker-dealers, hedge funds and Registered Investment Advisors to FORTUNE 500 companies. CFI's major practice areas include: Data Analytics Litigation Support & Expert Testimony Compliance, Regulatory & Risk Consulting Forensic & Fraud Investigations The industry's most comprehensive suite of Arbitration Tools, including ArbReporter, ArbSelector and MockArb. CFI has assisted business leaders and litigation teams in thousands of successful case resolutions and regulatory inquiries. Media Contact: Eric H. Siber Managing Director [email protected] (917) 225-6659 SOURCE Capital Forensics, Inc. ARLINGTON, Va. and NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Co-ops have real power to transform structurally disinvested communities into strong, vibrant places of opportunity. Through Capital Impact Partners' Co-op Innovation Award, three cooperative organizations have the chance to create systemic change in their communities. For the fifth annual Co-op Innovation Award, Capital Impact Partners and The Workers Lab partnered to award grants totaling $50,000 to the Independent Drivers Guild and Centro de Trabajadores Unidos: United Workers' Center, and to award a $50,000 grant to CLEAN Carwash. These awards recognize organizations leading initiatives that address workers' rights as well as wealth building and asset creation for immigrant workers. "Each year, we strive to work deeper in partnership with communities to help them achieve their goals. This year, it has been wonderful partnering with The Workers Lab to empower innovative cooperatives that are meeting immigrant communities where they are and creating space for economic and social justice," said Ellis Carr , president and CEO of Capital Impact Partners. "The Workers Lab is committed to investing in people and projects that show promise when it comes to building power for workers. We are proud to partner with Capital Impact Partners to support innovative models aimed at shifting existing power structures," said Betsy Edasery, Program Director at The Workers Lab. The Co-op Innovation Award aims to increase co-op development in low-income communities and/or communities of color. Organizations that focused on local community-driven co-op development initiatives broadening opportunities for quality jobs, wealth creation, and asset building were given priority. Some of this year's winners are also demonstrating new models and standards for their industries that can have a transformative impact on their communities. The Independent Drivers' Guild (IDG) has been awarded $25,000 to launch a purchasing cooperative that will reduce expenses for drivers, including: fuel, car washes, oil changes, dash cameras, meals-on-the-go, and car repair. Culturally appropriate meals-on-the-go will be provided by the Drivers Cooperative Cafe, a worker cooperative that IDG is in the process of establishing. Building on this first step toward a purchasing co-op, IDG envisions eventually creating a rideshare app to help its drivers compete in the New York City market. The guild represents more than 85,000 for-hire vehicle drives in New York City, 90 percent of whom are immigrant workers. For these low-wage drivers, these cooperatives are a means of finding more financial stability in a highly competitive industry by providing more take-home pay. "We are honored to work with Capital Impact Partners and The Workers Lab to pioneer a new union-cooperative strategy to turn the gig economy into a launching pad for the new economy. In the for-hire vehicle industry, workers spend around half of their income on the tools that they need to do their jobs. Developing worker and consumer cooperatives to source these key inputs has the potential to elevate the earnings and transform the lives of thousands of immigrant workers and workers of color in New York City, and eventually around the world," said Erik Forman, Education Director at Independent Drivers Guild-IAMAW. Centro de Trabajadores Unidos: United Workers' Center (Centro) has also been awarded $25,000 to fund a dual-language, culturally appropriate train-the-trainer curriculum for both worker cooperative developers and individuals seeking to start worker cooperatives. Additionally, Centro will start two new cooperatives and advocate for policy change to enable greater worker cooperative development locally and across the state. The organization is driven to improve workplace standards for immigrant workers. Centro has already supported the start-up of worker cooperatives and has trained partner organizations throughout the Chicago area in cooperative principles. Centro's goal is to transform the local economy in Chicago by empowering low-wage workers to achieve economic resilience. Through the grant, immigrant workers who often experience workplace discrimination and wealth stripping can instead determine their own wages and work environments, improving their quality of life and opportunities for prosperity. "We are honored to receive the Co-op Innovation Award funded by Capital Impact Partners and The Workers Lab. We envision our communities which have been overlooked for years empowered to stand for their workplace rights as a result of education and training. Through the incubation of worker cooperatives, our communities will have a greater chance to flourish as they build their skillsets, create alternative economies, and become independent," said Ana Guajardo, executive director of Centro. The Community Labor Environment Action Network (CLEAN) is being awarded $50,000 to establish CLEAN Carwash, a worker-owned car wash cooperative in Los Angeles that prioritizes worker and environmental rights. In addition, CLEAN will conduct two campaigns focused on improving wages and working conditions for car wash workers, and will advance two policies to address the rights of low-wage immigrant workers. CLEAN is a grassroots, immigrant, car wash worker-led organization that seeks transformative change to the exploitative car wash industry, reaching 5,000 car wash workers each year with information about their rights. CLEAN seeks to create wealth building and asset creation opportunities for worker-owners and employees while improving industry practices around worker rights and environmental sustainability. "For years, car wash workers have fought to improve conditions within the car wash industry. This funding from Capital Impact Partners and The Workers Lab provides the opportunity for our organization to establish income mobility and financial stability for our workers and our communities. We are now empowered to lead our industry and workers across the country by example," said Flor Rodriguez, director of the CLEAN Carwash Worker Center. Co-ops can provide economic mobility to individuals who have been marginalized and locked out of the mainstream economy. Democratic ownership empowers worker-owners to control their financial destiny and build hard-earned assets. Moreover, employee ownership can also spur greater civic engagement, as well as community self-determination, agency, and resilience. As mission-driven organizations focus more on expanding economic, social, and racial justice across the country, cooperatives and organizations that empower them will continue to be partners in broadening opportunities for all. "For years, we who work in the co-op development field have heard of the need for culturally appropriate co-op development and technical assistance in our communities. Throughout this year's Co-op Innovation Award, it has been exciting to see a trend toward community, labor, and worker-focused organizations integrating co-op development into their existing services in innovative ways that are tailored to meet the needs of their members and broader communities," said Alison Powers , manager, Cooperative and Community Initiatives at Capital Impact Partners. About Capital Impact Partners Through capital and commitment, Capital Impact Partners helps people build communities of opportunity that break barriers to success. We deliver strategic financing, incubate new social programs, and provide capacity-building to help ensure that low-to-moderate-income individuals have access to quality health care and education, healthy foods, affordable housing, and the ability to age with dignity. A nonprofit community development financial institution, Capital Impact Partners has disbursed more than $2.5 billion to revitalize communities over the past 35 years. Our leadership in delivering financial and social impact has resulted in Capital Impact earning a "AA-" rating from S&P Global and being recognized by Aeris since 2005 for our performance. Headquartered in Arlington, VA, Capital Impact Partners operates nationally, with local offices in Detroit, MI, and Oakland, CA. Learn more at www.capitalimpact.org . About The Workers Lab The Workers Lab invests in innovation and experiments that build power for working people in the 21st century through a number of means, including supporting partners in the public, private, and non-profit sectors in early stage experimentation; convening leaders from multiple sectors to develop solutions to the most pressing issues facing workers, and partnering with foundations and investors to double-down on what works. Founded by Dr. Carmen Rojas in 2014, The Workers Lab is based in Oakland, California. For more information, please visit www.theworkerslab.com. SOURCE Capital Impact Partners Related Links http://www.capitalimpact.org MIAMI, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL;NYSE: CUK), the world's largest leisure travel company, announced today that it is the winner of three Stevie Awards in the areas of consumer electronics, social business solutions and large hospitality & leisure company of the year in the 17th Annual American Business Awards. The Stevie Awards created in 2002 to honor and generate public recognition of the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals worldwide are the world's premier business awards. The American Business Awards, one of the seven Stevie Awards programs, feature a wide variety of categories to recognize achievement in every facet of the workplace. More than 3,800 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in multiple industries were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories. The OceanMedallion, the company's proprietary wearable device that elevates the guest experience by delivering an enhanced level of personalization and innovative services on MedallionClass ships from Princess Cruises, received a Gold Stevie New Products Award in Consumer Electronics. The prestigious American Business Awards' judges specifically recognized the Medallion as a "great tool to help solve a big challenge information and organization on a cruise." This is the fourth innovation award for the OceanMedallion which seamlessly connects a cruise guest's unique digital identity with a patented intelligent shipboard Experience Internet of Things (xIoT) ecosystem that enables hassle-free payment, turn-by-turn shipboard wayfinding, shipmate locator and personalized itineraries; speeds up embarkation; facilitates on-demand services; powers anywhere wagering; and more. The second Carnival Corporation innovation to receive a Gold Stevie New Product Award is OceanCompass, the wayfinding digital experience on board MedallionClass ships, which was recognized in the Social Business Solution category. Powered by the OceanMedallion, OceanCompass provides seamless engagement with guests through the use of wireless sensing technologies to provide intelligent navigation assistance, similar to GPS but on a ship that's constantly in motion. It also helps guests locate and chat with members of their travel party while on board using a "find-friends" feature called ShipMates, as well as enables point-to-point wayfinding throughout the ship. Calling the OceanCompass digital experience a "brilliant tool," the Stevie Award judges said, "the OceanCompass will make navigation a pleasure and will greatly enhance the customer experience for its users." In addition to the two top awards, Carnival Corporation also was honored with a Silver Stevie for Large Hospitality & Leisure Company of the Year for the guest experience innovation it has demonstrated through the creation of the MedallionClass Experience. Judges recognized the company for showing "that they are continuing to innovate and evolve the travel industry forward with new products and services," and applauded how "this personalized approach demonstrates how they continue to innovate to address their customers' needs and desires for creating a better overall experience." "Guest-centricity is core to our everyday service delivery focus, as well as our current and future experience innovations, and it's such an honor to have that focus be recognized by an organization as prestigious as The American Business Awards," said John Padgett, chief experience and innovation officer for Carnival Corporation. "The OceanMedallion is getting rave reviews from guests sailing on our first three MedallionClass ships from Princess Cruises, and we're working aggressively to deploy our next-level experience across the Princess Cruises fleet so we can bring this personalized experience to even more guests." The American Business Awards are the fifth prestigious organization to recently honor Carnival Corporation's patented IoT innovations. In November, CES recognized the company as a CES 2019 Innovations Award Honoree for the OceanMedallion. In December, the company received a 2018 Gold New York Design Award for Digital IoT for its Ocean Guest Experience Platform. Earlier this year, IoT Breakthrough awarded the OceanMedallion with its 2019 IoT Wearables Innovation of the Year and last month the OceanMedallion was announced as a 2019 Edison Awards Winner. MedallionClass vacations enabled by the innovative OceanMedallion are currently available for all guests sailing on three ships from Princess Cruises Caribbean Princess, Regal Princess and Royal Princess. The Crown Princess and Sky Princess will launch the OceanMedallion later this year. And in 2020, MedallionClass vacations will expand to six additional ships Ruby Princess, Grand Princess, Enchanted Princess, Emerald Princess, Coral Princess, and Island Princess. About Carnival Corporation & plc Carnival Corporation & plc is the world's largest leisure travel company and among the most profitable and financially strong in the cruise and vacation industries, with a portfolio of nine of the world's leading cruise lines. With operations in North America, Australia, Europe and Asia, its portfolio features Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises (Australia), Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and Cunard. Together, the corporation's cruise lines operate 104 ships with 243,000 lower berths visiting over 700 ports around the world, with 19 new ships scheduled to be delivered through 2025. Carnival Corporation & plc also operates Holland America Princess Alaska Tours, the leading tour company in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon. Traded on both the New York and London Stock Exchanges, Carnival Corporation & plc is the only group in the world to be included in both the S&P 500 and the FTSE 100 indices. With a long history of innovation and providing guests with extraordinary vacation experiences, Carnival Corporation has received thousands of industry awards including recognition by the Consumer Technology Association as a CES 2019 Innovation Awards Honoree for the OceanMedallion. A revolutionary wearable device that contains a proprietary blend of communication technologies, the OceanMedallion enables the world's first interactive guest experience platform transforming vacation travel on a large scale into a highly personalized level of customized service. The prestigious CES Innovation Awards honor outstanding design and engineering in consumer technology products. Additional information can be found on www.carnival.com, www.princess.com, www.hollandamerica.com, www.seabourn.com, www.pocruises.com.au, www.costacruise.com, www.aida.de, www.pocruises.com and www.cunard.com. About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in seven programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Sponsors of The 2019 American Business Awards include HCL America, John Hancock Financial Services, and SoftPro. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com. SOURCE Carnival Corporation & plc Related Links http://www.carnivalcorp.com BOSTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Cengage, an education and technology company, today announced the appointment of Rebecca McNamara as Chief Integration Officer, reporting directly to CEO Michael Hansen as part of the Executive Team. McNamara will lead all integration initiatives for the company's planned merger with McGraw-Hill, which is expected to close in early 2020. "I am thrilled to have Rebecca lead our integration efforts during this pivotal moment in our company's journey," said Michael E. Hansen, CEO, Cengage. "Having worked with Rebecca since my first day at Cengage, I am confident that there is no one better suited to lead us through this critical stage of transition. Her deep experience will guide the alignment of operating models, people and cultures to enable our new company to deliver on strategy and, ultimately, ensure a better learning experience for our customers." McNamara brings valuable expertise and experience to the new position, having played a central role in the pre-merger announcement activities, including due diligence and developing baseline synergies. As Chief Integration Officer, she will oversee strategic planning and the post-merger implementation, including leadership of the cross-functional team responsible for ensuring both cultural and organizational alignment across companies and the plan to achieve cost synergies. The combined companies will have a clear path to an efficient, combined operating model starting on day one and be well-positioned to drive the benefits of greater scale to support student achievement. The merger of Cengage and McGraw-Hill will provide college students with more affordable access to high-quality course materials and platforms. Both companies have already made significant investments in new business models to lower college students' costs, including Inclusive Access and Cengage Unlimited, the industry's first all-access subscription for eBooks, online homework access codes and study guides. Students using the subscription service saved more than $60 million during the 2018-19 academic year, and the new company plans to grow these types of affordability initiatives. "I am excited to take on this role and believe my experience supporting our business transformation has equipped me to lead through our company's next chapter," said Rebecca McNamara. "The deep relationships I've built within Cengage over the years will be invaluable as I work with the integration team to develop and implement plans for aligning the two organizations." Based in Cengage's Boston office, McNamara has been with Cengage for more than 15 years. Most recently, she served as Interim Chief Financial Officer, leading Cengage through a period of significant business transformation with the successful launch of Cengage Unlimited. Prior to this role, McNamara held a number of senior finance roles within the organization, including Senior Vice President, Finance Planning & Analysis, as well as Vice President, Strategic Finance. Previously, she held positions at Thomson Reuters and TheStreet.com. McNamara holds a bachelor's degree in economics from Lehigh University and an MBA, specializing in Finance and Economics, from Columbia Business School. About Cengage Cengage is the education and technology company built for learners. As the largest US-based provider of teaching and learning materials for higher education, we offer valuable options at affordable price points. Our industry-leading initiatives include Cengage Unlimited, the first-of-its-kind all-access digital subscription service. We embrace innovation to create learning experiences that build confidence and momentum toward the future students want. Headquartered in Boston, Cengage also serves K-12, library and workforce training markets around the world. Visit us at www.cengage.com or find us on Facebook or Twitter. Media Contacts : Susan Aspey, Cengage 202-695-6012, [email protected] Lindsay Stanley, Cengage 203-965-8634, [email protected] SOURCE Cengage Related Links http://www.cengage.com BETHESDA, Md., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Centrus Energy Corp. (NYSE American: LEU) today reported a net loss of $20.9 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2019, compared to a net loss of $25.0 million for the first quarter of 2018. The net loss allocable to common stockholders was $22.9 million, or $2.40 per common share (basic and diluted), compared to a net loss of allocable to common stockholders of $27.0 million or $2.97 per common share (basic and diluted), for the first quarter of 2018. "Our first quarter results show progress on our path to align our cost-structure with our current business and grow our order book, keeping us on track to return to profitability in 2020," said Daniel Poneman, Centrus president and chief executive officer. "We expect to continue to see improved results during the year as we fulfill future sales with lower-cost supplies and our reduced operating expenses." Refer to 2019 Outlook below for further details and factors that could affect the Company's 2019-2020 results. Financial Results Centrus generated total revenue of $38.7 million for the first quarter of 2019, an increase of $3.0 million, or 8%, from the prior year period. Revenue from the LEU segment increased $13.8 million, or 65%, in the first quarter, compared to the corresponding period in 2018, reflecting the variability in timing of utility customer orders. The volume of uranium sales increased 463% while the volume of SWU sales declined 8%. The average price billed to customers for uranium sales increased 14% reflecting recent increases in uranium market prices. The average price billed to customers for sales of SWU declined 24% reflecting the trend of lower SWU market prices in recent years and the particular contracts under which SWU were sold during the periods. The average cost of sales per SWU declined approximately 35% primarily due to lower pricing in new supply contracts. Cost of sales for the LEU segment increased $3.5 million, or 10%, in the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to the corresponding period in 2018, primarily reflecting changes in SWU and uranium sales volumes. Revenue from the Contract Services segment declined $10.8 million in the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to the first quarter of 2018, which included $9.5 million of revenue related to the January 2018 settlement with DOE related to past work performed. Cost of sales for the Contract Services segment declined $0.6 million, or 9%, in the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to the corresponding period in 2018, reflecting reduced spending on American Centrifuge as the Company and UT-Battelle work toward a successor agreement, partially offset by costs for services provided under contracts with the U.S. government and X-energy that commenced later in 2018. Centrus realized a gross loss of $5.5 million in the three months ended March 31, 2019, an improvement of $0.1 million compared to the gross loss of $5.6 million in the corresponding period in 2018. 2019 Outlook Centrus anticipates 2019 SWU and uranium revenue to be in the range of $85 million to $120 million and total revenue to be in a range of $125 million to $160 million. Consistent with prior years, revenue continues to be most heavily weighted to the second half of the year. The Company expects to end 2019 with a cash and cash equivalents balance in a range of $120 million to $140 million. The Company's financial guidance is subject to a number of assumptions and uncertainties that could affect results either positively or negatively. Variations from these expectations could cause differences between the guidance and the ultimate results. Among the factors that could affect Centrus' results are: Additional purchases or sales of SWU and uranium; Conditions in the LEU and energy markets, including pricing, demand, operations, and regulations Timing of customer orders, related deliveries, and purchases of LEU or components; Timing of execution of agreements for HALEU and with UT-Battelle, and terms established in the definitized contracts; Financial market conditions and other factors that may affect pension and benefit liabilities and the value of related assets The outcome of legal proceedings and other contingencies; Potential use of cash for strategic initiatives; Actions taken by customers, including actions that might affect existing contracts, as a result of market and other conditions impacting Centrus' customers and the industry; and Timing of return of cash collateral supporting financial assurance for the Piketon facility. About Centrus Energy Corp. Centrus is a trusted supplier of nuclear fuel and services for the nuclear power industry. Centrus provides value to its utility customers through the reliability and diversity of its supply sources helping them meet the growing need for clean, affordable, carbon-free electricity. Since 1998, the Company has provided its utility customers with more than 1,750 reactor years of fuel, which is equivalent to 7 billion tons of coal. With world-class technical capabilities, Centrus offers turnkey engineering and advanced manufacturing solutions to its customers. The Company is also advancing the next generation of centrifuge technologies so that America can restore its domestic uranium enrichment capability in the future. Find out more at www.centrusenergy.com . Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 - that is, statements related to future events. In this context, forward-looking statements may address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "will", "should", "could", "would" or "may" and other words of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. For Centrus Energy Corp., particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include: risks related to our significant long-term liabilities, including material unfunded defined benefit pension plan obligations and postretirement health and life benefit obligations; risks relating to our outstanding 8.0% paid-in-kind ("PIK") toggle notes (the "8% PIK Toggle Notes") maturing in September 2019, our 8.25% notes (the "8.25% Notes") maturing in February 2027 and our Series B Senior Preferred Stock, including the potential termination of the guarantee by our principal subsidiary United States Enrichment Corporation ("Enrichment Corp.") of the 8% PIK Toggle Notes; risks related to the use of our net operating loss ("NOLs") carryforwards and net unrealized built-in losses ("NUBILs") to offset future taxable income and the use of the Rights Agreement (as defined herein) to prevent an "ownership change" as defined in Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and our ability to generate taxable income to utilize all or a portion of the NOLs and NUBILs prior to the expiration thereof; risks related to the limited trading markets in our securities; risks related to our ability to maintain the listing of our Class A Common Stock on the NYSE American LLC (the "NYSE American"); risks related to decisions made by our Class B stockholders regarding their investment in the Company based upon factors that are unrelated to the Company's performance; risks related to the Company's capital concentration; the continued impact of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan on the nuclear industry and on our business, results of operations and prospects; the impact and potential extended duration of the current supply/demand imbalance in the market for low-enriched uranium ("LEU"); our dependence on others for deliveries of LEU including deliveries from the Russian government-owned entity Joint Stock Company "TENEX" ("TENEX") under a commercial supply agreement with TENEX and deliveries under a long-term supply agreement with Orano Cycle ("Orano"); risks related to our ability to sell the LEU we procure pursuant to our purchase obligations under our supply agreements; risks relating to our sales order book, including uncertainty concerning customer actions under current contracts and in future contracting due to market conditions and lack of current production capability; risks related to financial difficulties experienced by customers, including possible bankruptcies, insolvencies or any other inability to pay for our products or services; pricing trends and demand in the uranium and enrichment markets and their impact on our profitability; movement and timing of customer orders; risks related to the value of our intangible assets related to the sales order book and customer relationships; risks associated with our reliance on third-party suppliers to provide essential products and services to us; risks related to existing or new trade barriers and contract terms that limit our ability to deliver LEU to customers; risks related to actions, including government reviews, that may be taken by the U.S. government, the Russian government or other governments that could affect our ability to perform under our contract obligations or the ability of our sources of supply to perform under their contract obligations to us, including the imposition of sanctions, restrictions or other requirements; the impact of government regulation including by the U.S. Department of Energy ("DOE") and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission; uncertainty regarding our ability to commercially deploy competitive enrichment technology; risks and uncertainties regarding funding for the American Centrifuge project and our ability to obtain and/or perform under our future agreements with the DOE, UT-Battelle, LLC ("UT-Battelle"), the management and operating contractor for Oak Ridge National Laboratory ("ORNL"), for continued research and development of the American Centrifuge technology; uncertainties regarding uses for the Piketon, Ohio facility that we lease from the DOE; the potential for further demobilization or termination of the American Centrifuge project; risks related to the current demobilization of portions of the American Centrifuge project, including risks that the schedule could be delayed and costs could be higher than expected; risks related to our ability to perform and receive timely payment under agreements with the DOE, including risk and uncertainties related to the ongoing funding of the government and potential audits; the competitive bidding process associated with obtaining a federal contract; risks related to our ability to perform fixed-price contracts, including the risk that costs could be higher than expected; risks that we will be unable to obtain new business opportunities, achieve market acceptance of our products and services or that products or services provided by others will render our goods or services obsolete or noncompetitive; risks that we will not be able to timely complete the work that we are obligated to perform; failures or security breaches of our information technology systems; potential strategic transactions, which could be difficult to implement, disrupt our business or change our business profile significantly; the outcome of legal proceedings and other contingencies (including lawsuits and government investigations or audits); the competitive environment for our products and services; changes in the nuclear energy industry; the impact of financial market conditions on our business, liquidity, prospects, pension assets and insurance facilities; risks related to the identification of a material weakness in our internal controls over financial reporting; the risks of revenue and operating results fluctuating significantly from quarter to quarter, and in some cases, year to year; and other risks and uncertainties discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including under Part 1. Item1A - "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018. Contact Investors: Dan Leistikow (301) 564-3399 Media: Jeremy Derryberry (301) 564-3392 CENTRUS ENERGY CORP. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited; in millions, except share and per share data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Revenue: Separative work units $ 12.4 $ 17.7 Uranium 22.7 3.6 Contract services 3.6 14.4 Total revenue 38.7 35.7 Cost of Sales: Separative work units and uranium 38.3 34.8 Contract services 5.9 6.5 Total cost of sales 44.2 41.3 Gross loss (5.5) (5.6) Advanced technology license and decommissioning costs 6.6 7.7 Selling, general and administrative 8.1 11.2 Amortization of intangible assets 1.1 1.3 Special charges (credits) for workforce reductions and advisory costs (0.1) 0.6 Gain on sales of assets (0.4) (0.1) Operating loss (20.8) (26.3) Nonoperating components of net periodic benefit expense (income) (0.1) (1.6) Interest expense 1.0 1.0 Investment income (0.7) (0.6) Loss before income taxes (21.0) (25.1) Income tax benefit (0.1) (0.1) Net loss and comprehensive loss (20.9) (25.0) Preferred stock dividends - undeclared and cumulative 2.0 2.0 Net loss allocable to common stockholders $ (22.9) $ (27.0) Net loss per common share - basic and diluted $ (2.40) $ (2.97) Average number of common shares outstanding - basic and diluted (in thousands) 9,532 9,103 CENTRUS ENERGY CORP. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited; in millions, except share and per share data) March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 87.9 $ 123.1 Accounts receivable 39.5 60.2 Inventories 75.1 129.7 Deferred costs associated with deferred revenue 134.9 134.9 Deposits for financial assurance 30.5 30.3 Other current assets 6.6 6.3 Total current assets 374.5 484.5 Property, plant and equipment, net 4.1 4.2 Deposits for financial assurance 6.3 6.3 Intangible assets, net 74.9 76.0 Other long-term assets 4.9 0.7 Total assets $ 464.7 $ 571.7 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 54.9 $ 52.4 Payables under SWU purchase agreements 46.0 Inventories owed to customers and suppliers 64.2 103.0 Deferred revenue 204.5 204.5 Current debt 33.6 32.8 Total current liabilities 357.2 438.7 Long-term debt 117.1 120.2 Postretirement health and life benefit obligations 134.5 136.2 Pension benefit liabilities 166.4 168.9 Advances from customers 15.0 15.0 Other long-term liabilities 17.2 14.6 Total liabilities 807.4 893.6 Stockholders' deficit: Preferred stock, par value $1.00 per share, 20,000,000 shares authorized Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock, none issued Series B Senior Preferred Stock, 7.5% cumulative, 104,574 shares issued and outstanding and an aggregate liquidation preference of $121.3 as of March 31, 2019 and $119.3 as of December 31, 2018 4.6 4.6 Class A Common Stock, par value $0.10 per share, 70,000,000 shares authorized, 8,031,307 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 0.8 0.8 Class B Common Stock, par value $0.10 per share, 30,000,000 shares authorized, 1,406,082 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 0.1 0.1 Excess of capital over par value 61.3 61.2 Accumulated deficit (409.4) (388.5) Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax (0.1) (0.1) Total stockholders' deficit (342.7) (321.9) Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit $ 464.7 $ 571.7 CENTRUS ENERGY CORP. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited; in millions) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 OPERATING Net loss $ (20.9) $ (25.0) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used in operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 1.3 1.6 PIK interest on paid-in-kind toggle notes 0.4 0.4 Gain on sales of assets (0.4) (0.1) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable 11.2 45.2 Inventories, net 25.6 5.0 Payables under SWU purchase agreements (46.0) (55.9) Deferred revenue, net of deferred costs (18.9) Accounts payable and other liabilities 1.2 (2.0) Pension and postretirement liabilities (4.2) (3.4) Other, net (0.1) 0.8 Cash used in operating activities (31.9) (52.3) INVESTING Capital expenditures (0.1) Proceeds from sales of assets 0.1 Cash provided by investing activities FINANCING Payment of interest classified as debt (3.1) (3.0) Cash used in financing activities (3.1) (3.0) Decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (35.0) (55.3) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period 159.7 244.8 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period $ 124.7 $ 189.5 Supplemental cash flow information: Interest paid in cash $ 0.4 $ 0.4 Non-cash activities: Conversion of interest payable-in-kind to debt $ 0.7 $ 0.9 SOURCE Centrus Energy Corp. Related Links http://www.usec.com WEST POINT, N.Y., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chief Executive magazine and Thayer Leader Development Group at West Point today announced the second-annual Patriots in Business Award, honoring the Best American Companies with Veteran & Military Initiatives. This award recognizes outstanding businesses that lead our nation in supporting active duty military members, veterans and their families and exemplify the values of duty, honor and country through their business practices and throughout their community and industry. Through their initiatives on hiring, training, supporting, and honoring active duty, veterans and military families, these outstanding companies are the gold standard for other companies who seek to support those who serve. Awards will be judged by a cross-industry panel of peer-CEOs and former military leaders, and presented in three categories: Large enterprises (greater than $1B annual revenue), medium-sized businesses ($10M-$1B annual revenue) and small businesses (less than $10M annual revenue). Last year's winners were Comcast, Academy Securities, VetCor and USAA. "We were humbled by the large response to the call for submissions last year and honored to be able to present the Patriots in Business Award again this year," said Dan Rice, President, Thayer Leader Development Group at West Point and Iraq War veteran. "It's inspiring to see so many companies recognize our nation's military and the value our Veterans can offer corporate America." "American companies make a tremendousand often unheraldedeffort to support the nation's veterans and active duty military," said Marshall Cooper, CEO, Chief Executive Group. "The Patriots in Business Award honors those efforts, and offers great case studies on how these initiatives can be a true competitive advantage for companies." The awards are open to all for-profit corporations. Winners will show demonstrated, best-in-class leadership practices in hiring veterans and military spouses; training, retaining and supporting veterans, National Guard, reservists and their spouses; and honoring veterans and their spouses within the company and the community. There is no fee to enter and the deadline is June 1, 2019. For more information and to submit a nomination: https://chiefexecutive.net/patriotsinbusiness/ The winning company CEOs will be honored on September 24, 2019 at the 2019 CEO Talent Summit , co-hosted by Chief Executive and Thayer Leader Development Group at West Point, NY. About Chief Executive / Chief Executive Group Chief Executive Group is the leading community for business leaders worldwide. It publishes Chief Executive magazine (published since 1977), chiefexecutive.net , Corporate Board Member and boardmember.com , as well as conferences and roundtables that enable CEOs to discuss key subjects and share their experiences with their peers. The Group also runs the Chief Executive Network, the leading CEO membership organization arranged by industry, and facilitates the annual "CEO of the Year," a prestigious honor bestowed upon an outstanding corporate leader, nominated and selected by a group of peers. Visit www.chiefexecutive.net for more information. About Thayer Leader Development Group Thayer is the premier executive leader development program, based on the grounds of the United States Military Academy (U.S.M.A.) at West Point, New York. Thayer has trained more than 74,000 executives and front-line leaders from over 350 global companies across multiple industries, including automotive, financial services, pharmaceutical, and more. Utilizing a diverse range of customized, open enrollment and online learning programs, Thayer's mission is to help build leaders of character by offering leadership and ethics education grounded in the U.S. Army leadership philosophy of "Be, Know, Do" and the U.S.M.A. values of "Duty, Honor, Country." Thayer is a for-profit corporation not endorsed or affiliated with the U.S. Government. Learn more at www.thayerleaderdevelopment.com . Media Contact Dan Bigman Editor, Chief Executive Group [email protected] 212-867-1677 SOURCE Chief Executive Group Related Links http://www.chiefexecutive.net PLEASANTON, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Cerebrotech Medical Systems, an innovative medical device company developing neurotechnology solutions, today announced that Carl O'Connell has been named chief executive officer and John T. Kilcoyne has been appointed to the Company's Board of Directors. O'Connell and Kilcoyne are seasoned executives with significant experience in the healthcare industry and medical device market. "Carl and John both bring proven track records of success in the neurosurgery medical device market and we are excited to welcome them," said Martin Dieck, executive chairman, Cerebrotech Medical Systems. "As Cerebrotech transitions from the R&D phase to commercial expansion, the leadership and industry vision of both Carl and John will be critical for successfully shaping our future." O'Connell has extensive experience in the fields of neurotechnology, visualization and imaging, with impressive success inspiring organizational improvement and advancing sales and marketing strategies and implementation. He most recently served as president and chief executive officer of Xtant Medical Technologies, and held executive positions with Wright Medical, Stryker and Carl Zeiss Surgical. O'Connell also provided guidance to GE Healthcare for their neurointerventional imaging business. Currently heading JenaValve Technology, Inc., Kilcoyne was previously chief executive officer and president of one of the first public neurovascular device companies, Micrus Endovascular, which was sold to Johnson & Johnson under his tenure. He successfully led several other device companies, including ReVision Optics and Endonetics, and held senior management positions with Guidant/ACS and Boston Scientific, among others. A strong industry leader, Kilcoyne has served on the Board of Directors for a number of companies, presently holding a position with Cerus Endovascular. Cerebrotech is planning a U.S. launch of the Cerebrotech Visor System, having gained clearance from the Food and Drug Administration as an aid in the assessment of fluid volume differences between the cerebral hemispheres in patients undergoing neurologic assessment. The company also has plans to conduct additional clinical studies to obtain regulatory clearances for assessment of brain pathologies including stroke, trauma, swelling and others. O'Connell and Kilcoyne join the company at a critical time, as support for Cerebrotech's technology continues to grow. Recently, Cleveland Clinic included the Visor System among the Top 10 Medical Innovations of 2019, a list of up-and-coming technologies selected by a panel of Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists, which comes on the heels of a presentation related to the Visor System at the annual meeting of the Joint Cerebrovascular Section of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Congress of Neurological Surgeons with the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery. About Cerebrotech Medical Systems Cerebrotech Medical Systems , Inc., is a venture capital-backed company dedicated to designing neurotechnology solutions to improve the care of brain-injured patients worldwide. The company is developing and investigating a portable, noninvasive neuro-monitoring device that allows for earlier detection of potentially life-threatening conditions such as large vessel occlusion stroke, cerebral edema, traumatic brain injury, and others. Founded in 2010 and based in Pleasanton, CA, Cerebrotech's core intellectual property is licensed exclusively from the University of California at Berkeley. Cerebrotech is backed by: Tri-Star Health Partners, a healthcare-focused venture capital firm; Mountain Group Partners, a life sciences and technology focused venture capital firm; and Neuro Technology Investors, a group of physician investors in the neurology space (www.themdadvantage.com). For more information, visit www.cerebrotechmedical.com . SOURCE Cerebrotech Medical Systems Related Links http://www.cerebrotechmedical.com DOVER, Del., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chesapeake Utilities Corporation (NYSE: CPK) ("Chesapeake Utilities" or the "Company") today announced first quarter financial results. The Company's net income for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 was $28.7 million, compared to $26.9 million for the same quarter of 2018. Earnings per share ("EPS") for the quarter ended March 31, 2019 were $1.74, compared to $1.64 per share for the same quarter of 2018. The higher earnings reflected the positive impact of recently completed and ongoing pipeline expansion projects, accretion from the Marlin Gas Transport, Inc. ("Marlin Gas Transport") and R. F. Ohl Fuel Oil, Inc. ("Ohl") acquisitions, organic growth in the natural gas distribution operations and higher propane retail margins per gallon. Earnings also increased as a result of an order from the Florida Public Service Commission ("PSC") authorizing the Company to retain a portion of the tax savings associated with lower federal tax rates resulting from the United States Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("TCJA") for certain of the Company's natural gas distribution operations. These increases were partially offset by a $2.5 million margin decrease associated with lower energy consumption due to warmer weather in Florida and the absence of the "Bomb Cyclone" weather impact that sharply increased first quarter 2018 consumption within the Delmarva propane and natural gas distribution operations. A detailed discussion of operating results begins on page 3. "2019 is off to a great start, as demonstrated by our strong financial results and continued growth across our business segments. In particular, our performance reflects increased contributions from natural gas service expansions, the Marlin Gas Transport and Ohl acquisitions, higher retail propane margins and the favorable outcomes of several regulatory initiatives. Our employees' ingenuity, dedication and commitment to our growth strategy propelled our success during the quarter," stated Jeff Householder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Chesapeake Utilities Corporation. "We are excited about the future growth potential from these recent acquisitions and expansions. We also continue to evaluate additional attractive growth opportunities, with the goal of transforming such opportunities into new investments that generate increased earnings growth and value for our shareholders." Significant Items Impacting Earnings Results for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 were impacted by the following significant items: For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 (in thousands, except per share data) Net Income EPS Net Income EPS Reported (GAAP) Earnings $ 28,664 $ 1.74 $ 26,855 $ 1.64 Change in unrealized mark-to-market ("MTM") activity 80 (4,008) (0.24) 2018 portion of the retained tax savings for certain Florida natural gas distribution operations associated with the TCJA income tax rate reduction (990) (0.06) Adjusted (Non-GAAP) Earnings** $ 27,754 $ 1.68 $ 22,847 $ 1.40 *Unless otherwise noted, earnings per share information is presented on a diluted basis. **This press release includes references to non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP") financial measures, including gross margin, adjusted earnings and Adjusted EPS. A "non-GAAP financial measure" is generally defined as a numerical measure of a company's historical or future performance that includes or excludes amounts, or that is subject to adjustments, so as to be different from the most directly comparable measure calculated or presented in accordance with GAAP. Our management believes certain non-GAAP financial measures, when considered together with GAAP financial measures, provide information that is useful to investors in understanding period-over-period operating results separate and apart from items that may, or could, have a disproportionately positive or negative impact on results in any particular period. The Company calculates "gross margin" by deducting the cost of sales from operating revenue. Cost of sales includes the purchased fuel cost for natural gas, electricity and propane, and the cost of labor spent on direct revenue-producing activities and excludes depreciation, amortization and accretion. Other companies may calculate gross margin in a different manner. Gross margin should not be considered an alternative to operating income or net income, both of which are determined in accordance with GAAP. The Company believes that gross margin, although a non-GAAP measure, is useful and meaningful to investors as a basis for making investment decisions. It provides investors with information that demonstrates the profitability achieved by the Company under its allowed rates for regulated operations and under its competitive pricing structures for unregulated businesses. The Company's management uses gross margin in measuring its business units' performance. The Company calculates "adjusted earnings" by adjusting reported (GAAP) earnings to exclude the impact of certain significant non-cash items, including the impact of unrealized MTM gains (losses) and one-time charges, such as severance charges, and any prior year tax savings retained by our regulated businesses as a result of current year regulatory authorizations. The Company calculates "adjusted EPS" by dividing adjusted earnings by the weighted average common shares outstanding. Operating Results for the Quarter Ended March 31, 2019 and 2018 Consolidated Results Three Months Ended March 31, (in thousands) 2019 2018 Change Percent Change Gross margin $ 101,397 $ 91,299 $ 10,098 11.1 % Depreciation, amortization and property taxes 15,504 13,697 1,807 13.2 % Other operating expenses 41,900 37,196 4,704 12.6 % Operating income $ 43,993 $ 40,406 $ 3,587 8.9 % Operating income during the first quarter of 2019 increased by $3.6 million, or 8.9 percent, compared to the same period in 2018. The increase in operating income reflects continued strong growth across the Company, with contributions from existing businesses, recent expansion investments, regulatory initiatives, the successful integration and margin generated from Ohl and the particularly strong performance of Marlin Gas Services, LLC ("Marlin"), the Company's newly created subsidiary that acquired certain operating assets of Marlin Gas Transport. Regulated Energy Segment Three Months Ended March 31, (in thousands) 2019 2018 Change Percent Change Gross margin $ 67,102 $ 61,162 $ 5,940 9.7 % Depreciation, amortization and property taxes 12,531 11,156 1,375 12.3 % Other operating expenses 24,830 23,295 1,535 6.6 % Operating income $ 29,741 $ 26,711 $ 3,030 11.3 % Operating income for the Regulated Energy segment increased by $3.0 million, or 11.3 percent, in the first quarter of 2019 compared to the same period in 2018. This increase was driven by a $5.9 million increase in gross margin, offset by $1.4 million in higher depreciation, amortization and property taxes and $1.5 million in higher other operating expenses associated with the margin growth. The increase in operating income reflects continued growth in the natural gas operations and expansion projects completed by Peninsula Pipeline Company, Inc. ("Peninsula Pipeline") and Eastern Shore Natural Gas Company ("Eastern Shore"), the Company's intrastate and interstate transmission subsidiaries, respectively. Further, during the quarter, the Florida PSC issued a final order allowing the Company to retain tax savings associated with lower federal tax rates for certain of the Company's natural gas distribution operations. As a result, $1.3 million in reserves for customer refunds recorded in 2018, were reversed in 2019. Additionally, growth in the business and accrual timing resulted in an increase in incentive compensation expense of $653,000 in the first quarter 2019 compared to the same period in 2018.The key components of the increase in gross margin are shown below: (in thousands) Margin Impact Eastern Shore and Peninsula Pipeline service expansions $ 4,266 Natural gas distribution - customer growth (excluding service expansions) 1,451 2018 retained tax savings for certain Florida natural gas distribution operations 1,321 Impact of weather on customer consumption (primarily in Florida) (1,093) Natural gas distribution - change in customer consumption (non-weather) (485) Conversion of Sandpiper Energy Inc. ("Sandpiper") customers to natural gas 382 Florida Gas Reliability and Infrastructure Program ("GRIP") 223 Other immaterial variances (125) Quarter-over-quarter increase in gross margin $ 5,940 The major components of the increase in other operating expenses are as follows: (in thousands) Other Operating Expenses Depreciation, amortization and property taxes primarily associated with recent growth projects $ 1,375 Incentive compensation costs (based on timing and period-over-period results) 653 Outside services, facilities and maintenance costs (609) Payroll expense (increased staffing and annual salary increases) 608 Benefits and other employee-related expenses(1) 551 Other immaterial variances 332 Quarter-over-quarter increase in other operating expenses $ 2,910 (1) Since the Company self-insures for healthcare costs, benefits costs fluctuate depending upon filed claims. Unregulated Energy Segment Three Months Ended March 31, (in thousands) 2019 2018 Change Percent Change Gross margin $ 34,402 $ 30,301 $ 4,101 13.5 % Depreciation, amortization and property taxes 2,939 2,505 434 17.3 % Other operating expenses 16,336 14,112 2,224 15.8 % Operating income $ 15,127 $ 13,684 $ 1,443 10.5 % Given the impact of MTM activity on the first quarter 2018 results of Peninsula Energy Services Company, Inc. ("PESCO"), the Company continues to present PESCO's results separate from the rest of the Unregulated Energy segment: Unregulated Energy Segment, excluding PESCO Three Months Ended March 31, (in thousands) 2019 2018 Change Percent Change Gross margin $ 32,542 $ 29,126 $ 3,416 11.7 % Depreciation, amortization and property taxes 2,792 2,357 435 18.5 % Other operating expenses 14,113 12,321 1,792 14.5 % Operating income $ 15,637 $ 14,448 $ 1,189 8.2 % Excluding PESCO, operating income for the Unregulated Energy segment increased by $1.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to the same period in 2018. The increased operating income was driven by a $3.4 million increase in gross margin, partially offset by $1.8 million in higher operating expenses and $435,000 in higher depreciation and taxes. The major components of the $3.4 million increase in gross margin are shown below: (in thousands) Margin Impact Marlin (acquired assets of Marlin Gas Transport in December 2018) $ 2,329 Propane Operations Decrease in weather-related customer consumption due to the absence of the 2018 Bomb Cyclone (1,307) Increased retail margins per gallon 1,259 Customer growth, increased sales volumes (non-weather-related) and other factors 482 Ohl acquisition (assets acquired in December 2018) 476 Lower wholesale propane margins and sales (453) Aspire Energy of Ohio, LLC ("Aspire Energy") Rate increases 779 Increased customer consumption 397 Other immaterial variances (546) Quarter-over-quarter increase in gross margin $ 3,416 The major components of the increase in other operating expenses are as follows: (in thousands) Other Operating Expenses Operating expenses associated with operating Marlin and Ohl (Asset acquisitions in December 2018 $ 1,157 Incentive compensation costs (based on timing and period-over-period results) 466 Outside services and facilities maintenance costs 286 Depreciation, asset removal and property tax costs due to new capital investments 187 Benefits and other employee-related expenses(1) 133 Other immaterial variances (2) Quarter-over-quarter increase in other operating expenses $ 2,227 (1) Since the Company self-insures for healthcare costs, benefits costs fluctuate depending upon filed claims. PESCO Three Months Ended March 31, (in thousands) 2019 2018 Change Percent Change Gross margin $ 1,860 $ 1,175 $ 685 58.3 % Depreciation, amortization and property taxes 147 148 (1) (0.7) % Other operating expenses 2,223 1,791 432 24.1 % Operating loss $ (510) $ (764) $ 254 33.2 % For the three months ended March 31, 2019, PESCO's gross margin was higher by $685,000 compared to the same period in 2018. Operating expenses increased by $432,000, reflecting increased staffing, infrastructure and risk management systems necessary to support growth. Overall, PESCO's quarter-over-quarter performance improved by $254,000. Matters included in this release may include forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Please refer to the Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking Statements in the Company's 2018 Annual Report on Form 10-K for further information on the risks and uncertainties related to the Company's forward-looking statements. Conference Call Chesapeake Utilities will host a conference call on Friday, May 10, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the Company's financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2019. To participate in this call, dial 855.801.6270 and reference Chesapeake Utilities' 2019 First Quarter Results Conference Call. To access the replay recording of this call, the accompanying transcript, and other pertinent quarterly information, use the link CPK - Conference Call Audio Replay , or visit the Investors/Events and Presentations section of Company's website at www.chpk.com . About Chesapeake Utilities Corporation Chesapeake Utilities is a diversified energy company engaged in natural gas distribution, transmission and marketing; electricity generation and distribution; propane gas distribution; and other businesses. Information about Chesapeake Utilities and its family of businesses is available at http://www.chpk.com or through its Investor Relations (IR) App. Please note that Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is not affiliated with Chesapeake Energy, an oil and natural gas exploration company headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. For more information, contact: Beth W. Cooper Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Corporate Secretary 302.734.6799 Financial Summary (in thousands, except per share data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Gross Margin Regulated Energy segment $ 67,102 $ 61,162 Unregulated Energy segment 34,402 30,301 Other businesses and eliminations (107) (164) Total Gross Margin $ 101,397 $ 91,299 Operating Income Regulated Energy segment $ 29,741 $ 26,711 Unregulated Energy segment 15,127 13,684 Other businesses and eliminations (875) 11 Total Operating Income 43,993 40,406 Other income (expense), net (45) 68 Interest Charges 5,710 3,664 Pre-tax Income 38,238 36,810 Income Taxes 9,574 9,955 Net Income $ 28,664 $ 26,855 Earnings Per Share of Common Stock Basic $ 1.75 $ 1.64 Diluted $ 1.74 $ 1.64 Financial Summary Highlights Key variances, between the three months ended March 31, 2018 and 2019, included: (in thousands, except per share data) Pre-tax Income Net Income Earnings Per Share First Quarter of 2018 Reported Results $ 36,810 $ 26,855 $ 1.64 Adjusting for Unusual Items: Net impact of PESCO's MTM activity (5,591) (4,088) (0.24) Impact of weather on customer consumption (2,523) (1,891) (0.12) 2018 retained tax savings for certain Florida natural gas operations 1,321 990 0.06 (6,793) (4,989) (0.30) Increased (Decreased) Gross Margins: Absence of the 2018 Bomb Cyclone and capacity constraints cost for PESCO 5,545 4,157 0.25 Eastern Shore and Peninsula Pipeline service expansions* 4,266 3,198 0.19 Margin contribution from Marlin and Ohl (assets acquired in December 2018)* 2,805 2,103 0.13 Natural gas distribution - customer growth (excluding service expansions) 1,451 1,088 0.06 Higher propane retail margins per gallon 1,259 944 0.06 Unregulated Energy customers' consumption growth 879 659 0.04 Aspire Energy rate increases 779 584 0.04 Other margin for PESCO operations 731 548 0.03 Natural gas distribution - change in customer consumption (non-weather) (485) (364) (0.02) Lower wholesale propane margins and sales (453) (340) (0.02) Conversion of Sandpiper customers to natural gas 382 287 0.02 Florida GRIP* 223 167 0.01 17,382 13,031 0.79 Decreased (Increased) Other Operating Expenses: Depreciation, asset removal and property tax costs due to growth investments (1,560) (1,169) (0.07) Incentive compensation costs (based on timing and period-over-period results) (1,931) (1,448) (0.09) Operating expenses for Marlin and Ohl (assets acquired in December 2018) (1,157) (867) (0.05) Benefits and other employee-related expenses (732) (549) (0.03) Payroll expense (increased staffing and annual salary increases) (673) (504) (0.03) Operating expenses to support growth for PESCO (431) (323) (0.02) (6,484) (4,860) (0.29) Interest charges (2,046) (1,534) (0.09) Change in effective tax rate 768 0.05 Net other changes (631) (607) (0.06) (2,677) (1,373) (0.10) First Quarter of 2019 Reported Results $ 38,238 $ 28,664 $ 1.74 *See the Major Projects and Initiatives table later in this press release. Recently Completed and Ongoing Major Projects and Initiatives The Company constantly pursues and develops additional projects and initiatives in order to further increase shareholder value and serve existing and new customers. The following represent the major projects/initiatives recently completed and currently underway. In the future, the Company will add new projects and initiatives to this table once they are substantially final. Gross Margin for the Period Three Months Ended Year Ended Estimate for Project/Initiative March 31, December 31, Fiscal in thousands 2019 2018 2018 2019 2020 Florida GRIP (1) $ 3,565 $ 3,342 $ 13,323 $ 14,204 $ 15,565 2017 Eastern Shore System Expansion Project - including interim services 4,800 2,263 9,238 16,183 15,799 Tax benefit retained by certain Florida entities(2) 2,115 3,199 1,879 Northwest Florida Expansion 1,307 3,485 6,500 6,500 Western Palm Beach County, Florida Expansion 161 54 605 4,711 Marlin 2,329 110 5,100 6,000 Ohl propane acquisition (rolled into Sharp) 476 1,200 1,236 Del-Mar Energy Pathway Project - including interim services 165 725 3,039 Total $ 14,918 $ 5,605 $ 26,210 $ 47,716 $ 54,729 (1) All periods shown have been adjusted to reflect the lower customer rates as a result of the TCJA. Lower customer rates are offset by the corresponding decrease in federal income tax expense and have no negative impact on net income. (2) The amount disclosed for the first quarter of 2019 includes tax savings of $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, due to an order by the Florida PSC allowing reversal of a TCJA refund reserve, recorded in 2018, which increased gross margin for the quarter by that amount. GRIP Florida GRIP is a natural gas pipe replacement program approved by the Florida PSC that allows automatic recovery, through rates, of costs associated with the replacement of mains and services. Since the program's inception in August 2012, the Company has invested $131.4 million of capital expenditures to replace 268 miles of qualifying distribution mains, including $4.1 million during the first three months of 2019. GRIP generated additional gross margin of $223,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 2018. Major Projects and Initiatives Currently Underway 2017 Eastern Shore System Expansion Project Eastern Shore has substantially completed the construction of a system expansion project which increased its capacity by 26 percent. The few remaining segments are expected to be placed into service in various phases during the second quarter of 2019. The project generated $2.5 million in incremental gross margin during the three months ended March 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 2018. The project is expected to produce gross margin of approximately $16.2 million this year, $15.8 million annually from 2020 through 2022, and $13.2 million annually thereafter. Northwest Florida Expansion Project In May 2018, Peninsula Pipeline completed construction of transmission lines, and the Company's Florida natural gas division completed construction of lateral distribution lines, to serve customers in Northwest Florida. The project generated incremental gross margin of $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The estimated annual gross margin from this project for 2019 and future years is $6.5 million, with the opportunity for additional margin as the remaining capacity is sold. Western Palm Beach County Belvedere, Florida Project Peninsula Pipeline is constructing four transmission lines to bring natural gas to the Company's distribution system in West Palm Beach, Florida. The first phase of this project was placed into service in December 2018 and generated $161,000 in additional gross margin for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The Company expects to complete the remainder of the project in phases through early 2020 and estimates that it will generate gross margin of $605,000 in 2019 and approximately $4.7 million in future years once fully in service. Marlin In December 2018, the Company acquired certain operating assets of Marlin Gas Transport, a supplier of mobile compressed natural gas utility and pipeline solutions, and created Marlin, a new subsidiary which offers compressed natural gas solutions to supply interruption scenarios and provides other unique applications where pipeline supplies are unavailable or inadequate to meet customer requirements. Marlin generated $2.3 million of gross margin for the three months ended March 31, 2019. Based on Marlin's strong first quarter results, we have increased our 2019 full year margin estimate for this business from $4.5 million to $5.1 million and established our preliminary 2020 estimate for gross margin of $6.0 million. Ohl Propane Acquisition In December 2018, Sharp acquired certain propane customers and operating assets of Ohl. Located between two of Sharp's existing districts, Ohl provided propane distribution service to approximately 2,500 residential and commercial customers in Pennsylvania. The customers and assets acquired from Ohl have been assimilated into Sharp. The operations acquired from Ohl generated $476,000 of incremental gross margin for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The Company estimates that this acquisition will generate additional gross margin of approximately $1.2 million for Sharp in 2019, with the potential for additional growth in future years. Del-Mar Energy Pathway Project In September 2018, Eastern Shore filed for FERC authorization to construct the Del-Mar Energy Pathway project to provide an additional 14,300 dekatherms per day of capacity to four customers. The benefits of this project include additional natural gas transmission pipeline infrastructure in eastern Sussex County, Delaware, and the initial extension of Eastern Shore's pipeline system into Somerset County, Maryland. Interim services in advance of this project generated $165,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The estimated annual gross margin from this project is approximately $725,000 in 2019, $3.0 million in 2020, $4.6 million in 2021 and $5.1 million annually thereafter. Eastern Shore anticipates that this project will be fully in-service by mid-2021, contingent upon FERC granting its authorization for the project by August 2019. Regulatory Initiatives Florida Tax Savings Related to TCJA In the first quarter of 2019, the Florida PSC issued orders authorizing certain of the Company's natural gas distribution operations to retain a portion of the tax savings associated with the lower federal tax rates resulting from the TCJA. The Company expects these savings to continue in future years. Other major factors influencing gross margin Weather and Consumption Weather conditions accounted for a $2.5 million decrease in gross margin during the first quarter of 2019, compared to the same period in 2018. While period-over-period heating degree-days ("HDD") were essentially flat on the Delmarva Peninsula, extreme conditions during the 2018 "Bomb Cyclone" drove weather-related consumption in the first quarter of 2018 compared to the same period in 2019. This decrease in consumption accounted for $1.1 million in lower first quarter 2019 gross margin for the propane operations and $310,000 for the natural gas distribution operations. Weather in Florida was approximately 26 percent warmer in the first quarter of 2019, compared to the same period in 2018, and reduced consumption by propane, electric and natural gas distribution customers which resulted in decreased margin of approximately $951,000. The following table summarizes HDD and cooling degree day ("CDD") variances from the 10-year average HDD/CDD ("Normal") for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018. Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Variance Delmarva Actual HDD 2,322 2,295 27 10-Year Average HDD ("Normal") 2,362 2,354 8 Variance from Normal (40) (59) Florida Actual HDD 361 490 (129) 10-Year Average HDD ("Normal") 518 517 1 Variance from Normal (157) (27) Ohio Actual HDD 2,996 2,991 5 10-Year Average HDD ("Normal") 3,045 3,069 (24) Variance from Normal (49) (78) Florida Actual CDD 134 139 (5) 10-Year Average CDD ("Normal") 97 89 8 Variance from Normal 37 50 Natural Gas Distribution Margin Growth New customer growth in the Company's natural gas distribution operations generated $1.5 million of additional margin, which was partially offset by $485,000 in lower margin due to fewer volumes sold to commercial and industrial customers in Florida and at Sandpiper. The details for the three months ended March 31, 2019, are provided in the following table: Three Months Ended (in thousands) March 31, 2019 Customer Growth: Residential $ 637 Commercial and industrial, excluding new service in Northwest Florida 529 New service in Northwest Florida 285 Total Customer Growth 1,451 Non-Weather Change in Customer Consumption: Residential (89) Commercial and industrial (396) Total Decline in Customer Consumption (485) Total (or net) Increase in Natural Gas Distribution Margin $ 966 The additional margin from new customers reflects an increase of approximately 3.9 percent in the average number of residential customers served on the Delmarva Peninsula, approximately 3.2 percent growth in residential customers served in Florida, new service to customers in Northwest Florida, as well as an increase in the number of commercial and industrial customers served. Propane Operations Gross margin generated by our propane operations increased by $305,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to the same period in 2018. The following table summarizes the year-over year changes in gross margin for the propane business for the quarter ended March 31, 2019: Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 (in thousands) Decrease in customer consumption due to warmer weather $ (1,307) Increased retail margins per gallon 1,259 Customer growth, increased sales volumes (non-weather-related) and other factors 482 Ohl acquisition (assets acquired in December 2018) 476 Lower wholesale propane margins and sales (453) Other (152) 2019 Change in gross margin by our propane operations $ 305 Aspire Energy Gross margin generated by Aspire Energy increased by $796,000 during the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to the same period in 2018. The increase reflects $779,000 of rate increases and $397,000 of consumption growth, which was offset by a $380,000 decrease in gross margin due to various factors. PESCO PESCO's gross margin for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was higher by $685,000, compared to the same period in 2018. The following table summarizes the changes in PESCO'S year-over-year margin for the three months ended March 31, 2019: Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 (in thousands) Net impact of PESCO's MTM activity $ (5,591) Net impact of extraordinary costs associated with the 2018 Bomb Cyclone for the Mid-Atlantic wholesale portfolio (1) 3,284 Mid-Atlantic retail portfolio loss due to pipeline capacity constraints in the first quarter of 2018 (1) 2,261 Other margin for PESCO operations (net) 731 2019 Change in PESCO gross margin $ 685 (1) The 2018 Bomb Cyclone refers to the high-intensity winter storms in early January 2018 that impacted the Mid-Atlantic region and had a residual impact on our businesses through the month of February. The exceedingly high demand and associated impacts on pipeline capacity and gas supply in the Mid-Atlantic region created significant, unusual costs for PESCO. While such concerted impacts are not expected to occur frequently, our management revisited and refined its risk management strategies and implemented additional controls. Capital Investment Growth and Financing Capital expenditures totaled $33.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The following table shows the 2019 capital expenditure budget of $168.2 million by segment and by business line: 2019 (dollars in thousands) Regulated Energy: Natural gas distribution $ 64,143 Natural gas transmission 66,787 Electric distribution 5,949 Total Regulated Energy 136,879 Unregulated Energy: Propane distribution 11,870 Energy transmission 8,345 Other unregulated energy 1,416 Total Unregulated Energy 21,631 Other: Corporate and other businesses 9,705 Total Other 9,705 Total 2019 Forecasted Capital Expenditures $ 168,215 The capital expenditure projection is subject to continuous review and modification. Actual capital requirements may vary from the above estimates due to a number of factors, including changing economic conditions, customer growth in existing areas, regulation, new growth or acquisition opportunities and availability of capital. Historically, actual capital expenditures have typically lagged behind the budgeted amounts. Impact of Hurricane Michael In October 2018, Hurricane Michael passed through Florida Public Utilities Company's ("FPU") electric distribution operation's service territory in Northwest Florida. The hurricane caused widespread and severe damage to FPU's infrastructure, resulting in 100 percent of its Northwest Florida customers losing electrical service. FPU exerted extraordinary hurricane restoration efforts and restored service to those customers who were able to accept it. Through March 31, 2019, FPU has spent approximately $65.0 million to restore service, which was recorded as new plant and equipment or charged against FPU's accumulated depreciation and storm reserve. The Company is in the process of preparing the necessary regulatory filings to seek recovery of the costs incurred. In conjunction with the hurricane-related expenditures, the Company executed two 13-month unsecured term loans as temporary financing, each in the amount of $30.0 million. The interest cost associated with these loans is LIBOR plus 75 basis points. One of the term loans was executed in December 2018, and the other was executed in January 2019. The storm did not have a material impact on the margin from these operations, as services were restored to a majority of the Company's customers. Pending the outcome of the regulatory filings associated with the storm, the Company's results for the first quarter included higher interest expense of $435,000, or $326,000 on an after-tax basis ($0.02 per share) associated with the intermediate term loans discussed above. The Company's target ratio of equity to total capitalization, including short-term borrowings, is between 50 and 60 percent. The Company's equity to total capitalization ratio, including short term borrowings, was 46 percent as of March 31, 2019. Excluding the funds expended for Hurricane Michael restoration activities, the Company's equity to total capitalization ratio, including short-term borrowings, would have been approximately 49 percent. The Company seeks to align permanent financing with the in-service dates of its capital projects. The Company may utilize more temporary short-term debt, when the financing cost is attractive, as a bridge to the permanent long-term financing. Chesapeake Utilities Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) (in thousands, except shares and per share data) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Operating Revenues Regulated Energy $ 103,618 $ 109,393 Unregulated Energy and other 123,998 129,963 Total Operating Revenues 227,616 239,356 Operating Expenses Regulated Energy cost of sales 36,516 48,231 Unregulated Energy and other cost of sales 89,703 99,826 Operations 37,144 32,702 Maintenance 3,681 3,593 Depreciation and amortization 11,074 9,704 Other taxes 5,505 4,894 Total operating expenses 183,623 198,950 Operating Income 43,993 40,406 Other income (expense), net (45) 68 Interest charges 5,710 3,664 Income Before Income Taxes 38,238 36,810 Income taxes 9,574 9,955 Net Income $ 28,664 $ 26,855 Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding: Basic 16,384,927 16,351,338 Diluted 16,432,852 16,402,985 Earnings Per Share of Common Stock: Basic $ 1.75 $ 1.64 Diluted $ 1.74 $ 1.64 Chesapeake Utilities Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) Assets March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 (in thousands, except shares and per share data) Property, Plant and Equipment Regulated Energy $ 1,346,221 $ 1,297,416 Unregulated Energy 241,126 237,682 Other businesses and eliminations 30,282 34,585 Total property, plant and equipment 1,617,629 1,569,683 Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization (312,949) (294,295) Plus: Construction work in progress 90,453 108,584 Net property, plant and equipment 1,395,133 1,383,972 Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 7,975 6,089 Trade and other receivables (less allowance for uncollectible accounts of $1,054 and $1,108, respectively) 74,098 85,404 Accrued revenue 20,747 27,499 Propane inventory, at average cost 6,865 9,791 Other inventory, at average cost 8,122 7,127 Regulatory assets 7,913 4,796 Storage gas prepayments 1,327 6,603 Income taxes receivable 9,059 15,300 Prepaid expenses 7,192 10,079 Derivative assets, at fair value 9,221 13,165 Other current assets 1,121 5,684 Total current assets 153,640 191,537 Deferred Charges and Other Assets Goodwill 25,785 25,837 Other intangible assets, net 5,909 6,207 Investments, at fair value 7,509 6,711 Operating lease right-of-use assets (1) 12,523 Regulatory assets 77,101 72,422 Other assets 5,197 6,985 Total deferred charges and other assets 134,024 118,162 Total Assets $ 1,682,797 $ 1,693,671 (1) During the first quarter of 2019, the Company adopted a new lease accounting standard, resulting in additional assets and liabilities (both current and non-current portions) totaling $12.5 million shown on the balance sheet at March 31, 2019. Chesapeake Utilities Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) Capitalization and Liabilities March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 (in thousands, except shares and per share data) Capitalization Stockholders' equity Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share (authorized 2,000,000 shares), no shares issued and outstanding $ $ Common stock, par value $0.4867 per share (authorized 50,000,000 shares) 7,980 7,971 Additional paid-in capital 255,307 255,651 Retained earnings 284,111 261,530 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (3,739) (6,713) Deferred compensation obligation 4,376 3,854 Treasury stock (4,376) (3,854) Total stockholders' equity 543,659 518,439 Long-term debt, net of current maturities 285,998 316,020 Total capitalization 829,657 834,459 Current Liabilities Current portion of long-term debt 71,509 11,935 Short-term borrowing 276,393 294,458 Accounts payable 75,277 129,804 Customer deposits and refunds 29,710 34,155 Accrued interest 4,505 2,317 Dividends payable 6,067 6,060 Accrued compensation 8,506 13,923 Regulatory liabilities 15,085 7,883 Derivative liabilities, at fair value 6,798 14,871 Other accrued liabilities (1) 14,719 12,828 Total current liabilities 508,569 528,234 Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities Deferred income taxes 160,912 156,820 Regulatory liabilities 132,686 135,039 Environmental liabilities 7,370 7,638 Other pension and benefit costs 29,822 28,513 Operating lease - liabilities (1) 10,873 Deferred investment tax credits and other liabilities 2,908 2,968 Total deferred credits and other liabilities 344,571 330,978 Total Capitalization and Liabilities $ 1,682,797 $ 1,693,671 (1) During the first quarter of 2019, the Company adopted a new lease accounting standard, resulting in additional assets and liabilities (both current and non-current portions) totaling $12.5 million shown on the balance sheet at March 31, 2019. Chesapeake Utilities Corporation and Subsidiaries Distribution Utility Statistical Data (Unaudited) For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2018 Delmarva NG Distribution Chesapeake Utilities Florida NG Division FPU NG Distribution FPU Electric Distribution Delmarva NG Distribution Chesapeake Utilities Florida NG Division FPU NG Distribution FPU Electric Distribution Operating Revenues (in thousands) Residential $ 29,971 $ 1,785 $ 10,720 $ 9,859 $ 35,314 $ 1,761 $ 11,182 $ 11,533 Commercial 13,141 1,738 7,707 7,816 15,830 1,722 8,331 9,157 Industrial 2,388 3,266 5,994 610 2,306 1,871 6,536 400 Other (1) (822) 1,111 (635) (3,907) (1,743) 510 (2,836) (2,349) Total Operating Revenues $ 44,678 $ 7,900 $ 23,786 $ 14,378 $ 51,707 $ 5,864 $ 23,213 $ 18,741 Volume (in Dts for natural gas and MWHs for electric) Residential 2,220,375 132,872 505,326 65,511 2,240,555 140,759 523,062 78,528 Commercial 1,653,320 1,248,764 504,046 61,829 1,705,426 1,239,936 535,544 67,740 Industrial 1,511,308 7,333,850 1,347,237 7,750 1,509,039 2,334,243 1,304,530 4,520 Other 17,859 555,391 12,533 468,556 1,896 Total 5,402,862 8,715,486 2,912,000 135,090 5,467,553 3,714,938 2,831,692 152,684 Average Customers Residential 73,976 16,988 56,829 24,379 71,233 16,223 55,280 24,644 Commercial(2) 7,148 1,529 3,897 7,232 7,024 1,460 3,927 7,481 Industrial(2) 168 17 2,415 2 153 73 2,251 2 Other 9 12 6 17 Total 81,301 18,534 63,153 31,613 78,416 17,756 61,475 32,127 (1) Operating Revenues from "Other" sources include unbilled revenue, under (over) recoveries of fuel cost, conservation revenue, other miscellaneous charges, fees for billing services provided to third parties, and adjustments or changes in taxes, such as the TCJA, which are passed through to customers. This amount also includes the reserve for estimated customer refunds associated with the TCJA. (2) Certain volumes and customers have been reclassified when compared to the prior year for consistency with current year presentation. SOURCE Chesapeake Utilities Corporation Related Links http://www.chpk.com DUBLIN, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The "China Filling Station and Gas Station Industry Report, 2018-2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. It is only in recent years that ownership of motor vehicles, particularly automobiles has been soaring in pace with the development of the national economy and the improvement of people's living standards in China. At the end of 2018, ownership of motor vehicles in China reached 327 million units including 240 million automobiles, and accordingly there were up to 110,000 filling stations and at least 9,000 gas stations respectively across the country. In the Chinese filling station market, state-owned enterprises, private firms and foreign companies co-exist, among which the state-owned enterprises are represented by CNPC, Sinopec and CNOOC, which held a combined market share of approximately 52% in 2018, followed by private firms with 45% share and foreign companies less than 3% share. In June 2018, the Special Management Measures (Negative List) for Foreign Investment Access (2018) was issued, which officially abolished the restriction that foreign filling station in possession of over 30 chains should have shares be controlled by Chinese side. As a result, foreign companies like Shell and BP stated expansion plans in China for the future. Shell is keen to operate 2,200 more filling stations in China by 2025; BP wants to add 1,000 filling stations in China over the next five years; Exxon Mobil and Total will follow suit and make their forays into the Chinese retailing market rapidly. In addition, private firms such as Shandong Dongming Petrochemical Group as well as state-owned enterprises like Sinochem Oil has expressed an interest in either newly increasing a great number of filling stations or developing franchised ones. It is expected that in 2025 there will be a total increase of nearly 30,000 filling stations over the corresponding figure in 2018. As its refined oil retailing market is fully opened up, China's reform of filling stations will usher in a new platform. With the prevalence of the filling station + convenience store + charging station/pile model, related companies actively collaborate on promotional pilots of charging/battery-swap services in filling stations. Examples include cooperation between CNPC and FAW, Sinopec and BAIC BJEV, and CNOOC and Potevio/State Grid. In the upcoming years, China's filling stations will run at a filling station + internet + N model, becoming a service platform integrated with people, car and life. In China, gas stations have a smaller scale than filling stations mainly because the country started late in natural gas vehicles, whose ownership is still less than 10 million units currently. Yet such clean eco-friendly vehicles are advocated by multiple policies. For instance, the Opinions on Accelerating the Use of Natural Gas, which was issued in 2017, suggests expediting the development of natural gas vehicles and vessels; the Notice of Preferential Vehicle and Vessel Tax Policies for Energy-saving and New-energy Vehicles and Vessels which was launched in July 2018, specifies that natural gas vehicles should be listed as energy-saving vehicles where vehicle and vessel taxes are reduced by half. It is predicted that gas stations will mushroom in China in the near future along with the promotion and application of natural gas vehicles, numbering roughly 20,000 in 2025. This report highlights the following: China filling station industry (policies, market size, competitive pattern, chain operation and development trends); filling station industry (policies, market size, competitive pattern, chain operation and development trends); China refined oil market (supply and demand, import and export, price and development trends); refined oil market (supply and demand, import and export, price and development trends); China motor vehicle/automobile market (ownership, structure, and number of supporting filling stations); motor vehicle/automobile market (ownership, structure, and number of supporting filling stations); Global and China natural gas vehicle industry (policy environment, market size, gas station ownership and distribution, competitive pattern, development trends, etc.); natural gas vehicle industry (policy environment, market size, gas station ownership and distribution, competitive pattern, development trends, etc.); Major Global and Chinese operators (operation, production and sales of oil and gas, number of filling/gas stations and distribution, non-oil business, development strategy, etc.). Companies Mentioned BP CNOOC CNPC Dongming Petrochemical ExxonMobil Shell Sinochem Oil Sinopec Total For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/wrxfnc About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. 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 TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (TAIEX: 2412,NYSE: CHT) ("Chunghwa" or "the Company") today announced that, due to the promotion of the former President Mr. Chi-Mau Sheih to Chairman & CEO of the Company, the board of directors has appointed Mr. Shui-Yi Kuo, Chief Financial Officer and Senior Executive Vice President, as the new President of the Company, effective today. Mr. Kuo will remain Chief Financial Officer until a successor has been identified. In addition, because the current internal auditing officer, Mr. Fu-Kuei Chung, retires on June 30, 2019, the board of directors has appointed Mr. Min-Gume Cheng, current vice president of the Data Communication Business Group, as his successor. Chunghwa's new President, Mr. Shui-Yi Kuo, has been with the Company since 2001. Prior to Chunghwa, he served in the auditing and business consulting group at Arthur Anderson Taiwan. Since his time at Chunghwa, Mr. Kuo has served as special assistant to the Chairman and assisted in the design of employee incentive plans, such as the Employee Stock Ownership Trust, during the privatization of the Company. He also served as Assistant Vice President of the planning development and investment department, Vice President of the accounting department, President of Chunghwa's subsidiary Light Era, Vice President and President of the investment department, Senior Executive Vice President of Investment and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Kuo has extensive experience in the business operations, finance, and performance management of Chunghwa's strategic investment companies, and been in responsible for the spin-offs of Chunghwa Precision Test Tech. Co., Chunghwa Leading Photonics Tech and CHT Security, as well as the public listings on TPEx of subsidiaries Chief Telecom and KingwayTek Technology. Chunghwa's new internal auditing officer Mr. Min-Gume Cheng has been with the Company since 1982 where he has served as Vice President of the human resources department, Vice President of the Mobile Communication Business Group, and Vice President of the Data Communication Business Group, where he gained extensive experience in administrative and technical management. Mr. Cheng's prudent and rigorous work ethic is well suited for supervising the execution of the auditing process and creating value for the Company and shareholders alike. Chunghwa Chairman Mr. Sheih commented that he has full confidence in the professional competence and execution capabilities of the Chunghwa Telecom team to execute the Company's strategic transformation plan and laying a strong foundation for the Company's long-term growth. Mr. Sheih and Mr. Kuo both have long tenures at Chunghwa Telecom and are internally promoted professional managers. Their extensive knowledge in telecom business and technologies, and in accounting and corporate finance, complement each other well and will provide a smooth management transition. In the backdrop of decreasing operating profits, global telecom companies are actively seeking additional growth momentum through business partnerships, M&A, and other investments. The Company remains confident that under the leadership of Mr. Sheih and Mr. Kuo, Chunghwa Telecom will continue to excel in the coming wave of 5G competition and further solidify its leading position in the domestic telecom industry. About Chunghwa Telecom Chunghwa Telecom (TAIEX: 2412,NYSE: CHT) is Taiwan's largest integrated telecommunications services company that provides fixed-line, mobile, broadband, and internet services. The Company also provides information and communication technology services to corporate customers with its big data, information security, cloud computing and IDC capabilities, and is expanding its business into innovative technology services such as IoT, AI, etc. In recent years, Chunghwa has been actively involved in corporate social responsibility and has won domestic and international awards and recognition. www.cht.com.tw. SOURCE Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. Related Links http://www.cht.com.tw PHILADELPHIA, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Tomorrow, Thursday, May 9, the National Constitution Center's new permanent exhibit Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equalitythe first exhibit in America devoted to exploring how constitutional clashes over slavery set the stage for the Civil War, and how the nation transformed the Constitution after the war to more fully embrace the Declaration of Independence's promise of liberty and equalitywill open to the public. "The National Constitution Center is thrilled to open the first permanent gallery in America that will tell the story of how the freedom and equality promised in the Declaration of Independence was thwarted in the original Constitution, resurrected by Lincoln at Gettysburg, and, after the bloodiest war in American history, finally enshrined in the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution," said Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center. "It's an honor for all of us at the Constitution Center to have worked on this permanent addition to the Center, which will educate visitors of all ages about what some have called America's Second Founding and inspire them to learn more." Through remarkable artifacts and rare documents from one of the largest private Civil War collections in Americathe Civil War Museum of Philadelphiaand other partners, the 3,000 square foot exhibit brings to life the stories of Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, and other figures central to the conflict over slavery. The exhibit also features the inspiring stories of lesser known individuals to help shed light on the American experience under slavery, the battle for freedom during the Civil War, and the fight for equality during Reconstruction. In doing so, visitors will learn the history of three constitutional amendments added between 1865 and 1870, which ended slavery, required states to respect individual rights, promised equal protection to all people, and expanded the right to vote to African-American men. Civil War and Reconstruction features over 100 artifacts, including original copies of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, Dred Scott's signed petition for freedom, a pike purchased by John Brown for the armed raid at Harper's Ferry to incite a revolt against slavery, a fragment of the flag that Abraham Lincoln raised at Independence Hall in Philadelphia in 1861, and a ballot box marked "colored" from Virginia's first statewide election that allowed black men to vote in 1867. As part of the opening events surrounding Civil War and Reconstruction, Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr. joined President and CEO Jeffrey Rosen for a special program and opening ceremony on Tuesday, May 7. "Reconstruction is finally having its moment in the sun," said famed scholar and filmmaker, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., executive producer and host of the recent documentary series for PBS Reconstruction: America After the Civil War, and author of the recently published books Stony the Road: Reconstruction, White Supremacy, and the Rise of Jim Crow (Penguin Press) and Dark Sky Rising: Reconstruction and the Dawn of Jim Crow (Scholastic Focus). "This defining and dark era in our nation's history has been undertaught in our schools and misunderstood in our society for more than a century. But thanks to marvelous institutions such as the National Constitution Center, America's first experiment with interracial democracy will never be lost again. This exhibit is a stunningly compelling example of how our great cultural institutions can help us learn fromand reconcile withour troubled past." The National Constitution Center is celebrating the new gallery opening Thursday, May 9, through Sunday, May 12, with "Artifact Spotlight Talks," where education staff will discuss some of the most interesting pieces of the exhibit; a Civil War encampment; dress-up and photo opportunities; meet-and-greets with "historic figures;" and more. Along with other multimedia elements, the exhibit uses interactive technology to encourage visitors to explore the creation and drafting of each of the three Reconstruction Amendments. Through an original gallery interactive created to teach the drafting process of each amendment's text, visitors can explore the key stories, figures, and ideas behind the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, examine the events that shaped each amendment, and compare the evolution of text within each amendment. These interactives are also designed to complement the Center's upgraded online Interactive Constitution and Drafting Table learning tools which will launch in the fall. As visitors explore Civil War and Reconstruction, they will encounter a short, theatrical performance in the 14th Amendment section of the exhibit highlighting Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, a key African-American figure from the Reconstruction era. Performances will run two times an hour between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays, May 9 through Memorial Day Weekend 2019, and be available on select dates throughout fall of 2019 and in February 2020. Civil War and Reconstruction is a permanent addition to the National Constitution Center's main exhibit experience. Located on the ground floor, this new permanent gallery is adjacent to the American Treasures gallery, which features the five rarest original drafts of the Constitution. Together, these two exhibits will ensure that the most significant original documents from America's founding and from the Reconstruction erawhich some have called the Second Foundingcan educate and inspire visitors in perpetuity. Artifacts in Civil War and Reconstruction have been generously lent to the National Constitution Center through a partnership among the Center, the Civil War Museum of Philadelphia, and the Gettysburg Foundation. The Civil War Museum formally transferred ownership of its three-dimensional artifacts to the Gettysburg Foundation in 2016 on the condition that a selection be permanently displayed in Philadelphia at the National Constitution Center. The exhibit also brings together artifacts from a wide range of institutions across the country, from Illinois, Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality has been generously supported by The George Family Foundation; Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation; The Pew Charitable Trusts; the William Penn Foundation; PECO; Crystal Trust; The McLean Contributionship; Otto Haas Charitable Trust, at the recommendation of John and Janet Haas; the Board of Governors of the Civil War Museum of Philadelphia; Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Tourism Office; Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development; Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program of the Commonwealth. The theatre programs in conjunction with Civil War and Reconstruction are supported by The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. About the National Constitution Center The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia brings together people of all ages and perspectives, across America and around the world, to learn about, debate, and celebrate the greatest vision of human freedom in history, the U.S. Constitution. A private, nonprofit organization, the Center serves as America's leading platform for constitutional education and debate, fulfilling its congressional charter "to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis." As the Museum of We the People, the Center brings the Constitution to life for visitors of all ages through interactive programs and exhibits. As America's Town Hall, the Center brings the leading conservative and liberal thought leaders together to debate the Constitution on all media platforms. As a Headquarters for Civic Education, the Center delivers the best educational programs and online resources that inspire citizens and engage all Americans in learning about the U.S. Constitution. For more information, call 215-409-6700 or visit constitutioncenter.org. SOURCE National Constitution Center Related Links http://www.constitutioncenter.org WASHINGTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The College Promise Campaign, a national nonprofit working to increase the number of quality College Promise programs providing paid-for college tuition and fees, released a landscape crosswalk of existing programs supporting Latino students during a convening of employers and higher education leaders in D.C. on May 8, 2019. Of the 523 Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) across the nation, 172 of those institutions are currently participating in College Promise programs. The College Promise seeks to make higher education more accessible and affordable for students while also providing supports that increase likelihood of completion. College Promise Campaign "The Latino community has the highest labor force participation in America; we bring a work ethic and commitment to family that is a hallmark of American values and culture," said Rosye Cloud, Vice President of the College Promise Campaign. "As a first generation American Latina, much of my American identity was shaped through my experiences in higher education and meaningful career. We must do better at providing Latino students a pathway into the middle class and the 'how' to achieve the American dream of prosperity." Latinos represent 18% of the total population and comprise 16% of the total population working full-time and 15% of those working part-time. They have higher labor force participation rates when compared to other groups 16 and older (66% Latino, 64% Asian, 63% White, 62% African-Americans). However, strong employment and labor participation rates are not indicators of social mobility. Latinos are significantly overrepresented in lower-paying occupations (approximately 50% of construction workers, agricultural workers or cleaners), versus the highest-paying occupations (only 22% of Latinos are employed in management or professional occupations). Latinos in the labor force also have lower levels of high school diploma attainment (75% versus 90% of white students) and Bachelor's degree attainment (20% versus 40% of white students). It is with this in mind that the College Promise Campaign is announcing a focus on increasing Latino student success. In partnership with Excelencia in Education, the College Promise Campaign hosted a leadership roundtable with corporate, higher education, and nonprofit leaders to discuss the opportunities for improving the Latino student pipeline into meaningful careers. While Latino students have made significant strides in college access and degree attainment at the state and national level over the past five years, considerable gaps remain in access, completion and labor force participation. The College Promise Campaign and Excelencia in Education recognize the importance of addressing these gaps and what it means for improving the social and economic outcomes of our nation's Latino communities. For More Information: www.CollegePromise.org Follow Us: on Facebook @CollegePromise and on Twitter and Instagram @College_Promise The College Promise Campaign is a nonpartisan, nonprofit higher education initiative that builds widespread support for funding quality college programs for all hardworking students. In the 21st century, a high school diploma is no longer enough to lead Americans to a good job and decent quality of life. CPC is an initiative of Civic Nation, a 501(c)(3) organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. MEDIA CONTACT: Matthew Salsbury [email protected] 202-569-3000 Related Images image1.jpg SOURCE College Promise Campaign Related Links http://www.CollegePromise.org PALO ALTO, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- CONCEPT Professional Training at Palo Alto University, a global leader in online professional training in forensic mental health, is hosting its Summer Training Institute 2019 at Palo Alto University, June 17 to 21. Attendees will participate in live workshops taught by internationally renowned experts in forensic mental health. This 5-day professional training opportunity is appropriate for forensic/clinical mental health professionals, law enforcement and correctional professionals, threat assessment professionals, forensic evaluators, legal professionals, social workers, counselors, and those wishing to add forensic evaluation to their clinical practice. These workshops are eligible for Continuing Education (CE) credit by APA, CPA, ASWB, and NBCC. California psychologists, social workers, counselors and MFT's are all eligible for CE's (CEU's). Want to join but cannot get to Palo Alto? Consider virtual attendance. This year attendees have the option of participating via ZOOM, from the comfort of your personal computer, laptop, tablet or phone for a discounted rate. Allegations of Alienation or Child Sexual Abuse in Custody Evaluations (June 17th, 2019) Presented by Dr. David Martindale Assessment of Psychopathy via the CAPP and Clinical Assessment Instruments (June 17th, 2019) Presented by Dr. Martin Sellbom Risk Management for Custody Evaluators and Court Involved Therapists (June 18th, 2019) Presented by Dr. David Martindale Using the MMPI-2-RF in Public Safety Personnel Evaluations (June 18th, 2019) Presented by Dr. Martin Sellbom Introduction to Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) (June 19th, 2019) Presented by Dr. Yotam Heineberg Assessing & Managing Risk for Self-Directed Violence (Suicide) (June 19th, 2019) Presented by Dr. Brianne Layden Diversity Issues in Violence Risk Assessment and Management (June 20th, 2019) Presented by Dr. Stephen Hart Working with First Responders: What Every Clinician Needs to Know (June 20th, 2019) Presented by Dr. Jamie Bower Mental Disorder and Violence Risk (June 21st, 2019) Presented by Dr. Stephen Hart Introduction to Police Psychology (June 21st, 2019) Presented by Dr. Philip Trompetter and Dr. Jaime Brower For more information on the Summer Training Institute 2019, visit https://www.concept-ce.com/sti2019 About CONCEPT Consolidated Continuing Education and Professional Training (CONCEPT) provides expert professional training in areas relevant to criminal and civil forensic mental health assessment, correctional, law enforcement, and forensic intervention. CONCEPT's professional training programs are presented by the field's top experts and are based on empirical research and best practices. CONCEPT is dedicated to providing premium professional training, enhanced by technology and e-learning pedagogy, in an accessible online format. About Palo Alto University Palo Alto University (PAU) is dedicated to improving the human condition through excellence in teaching, research and scholarship in the fields of psychology and counseling. With an unwavering commitment to diversity and to the communities it serves, PAU offers doctoral, master's and bachelor's programs, as well as hands-on clinical training. A private, non-profit university, PAU is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). PAU was founded in 1975 as the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology (PGSP), an independent, professional school and was first accredited in 1986 by WASC and has been continuously accredited since then. PGSP re-incorporated as Palo Alto University in August 2009. MEDIA CONTACT Robert Parfitt Email: [email protected] Phone: (888) 709-4448 SOURCE Palo Alto University Related Links http://www.paloaltou.edu FLORHAM PARK, N.J., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Key Quarterly Financial and Operational Highlights Revenue of $1,158 million GAAP diluted EPS from continuing operations of $(1.49) , down $(1.23) yr/yr; adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations of $0.14 , down (36.4)% , down yr/yr; adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations of , down (36.4)% Net Income from continuing operations of $(308) million ; Adjusted net income of $32 million ; Adjusted net income of Adjusted EBITDA of $122 million , up 1.7%, excluding the impact from divestitures , up 1.7%, excluding the impact from divestitures Total signings TCV $952M , new business TCV signings $225M , new business TCV signings HSP acquisition immediately adding to pipeline and differentiation for clients Meaningful progress on technology infrastructure modernization and network consolidation Conduent (NYSE: CNDT), a digital interactions company, today announced its first quarter 2019 financial results. "This quarter, we continued to make investments in our operating and go-to-market model," said Ashok Vemuri, CEO of Conduent. "We continued to show margin expansion despite facing growth challenges and pressure on our top line. The strong team we have built, the markets we operate in and our loyal client base, establishes a strong foundation upon which to build." First Quarter 2019 Results First quarter 2019 revenue was $1,158 million, down (18.5)% compared to Q1 2018. Excluding divestitures completed in 2018 and 2019, revenue was down (4.3)% compared with Q1 2018. Pre-tax income was $(338) million compared to $(54) million in Q1 2018 driven primarily by a $284 million goodwill impairment as a result of the loss of customer contracts, lower than expected new business and higher costs of delivery within our Transportation business, which was found to be below its carrying value. GAAP operating margin as reported was (29.2)% compared to (3.8)% in Q1 2018. The company reported Q1 2019 GAAP net income of $(308) million compared to $(50) million in Q1 2018. Diluted EPS from continuing operations was ($1.49) versus ($0.26) in the same period last year, driven primarily by the goodwill impairment. First quarter adjusted operating income was $69 million, with an adjusted operating margin of 6.0% as compared to adjusted operating income of $105 million, with an adjusted operating margin of 7.4% in Q1 2018. Adjusted EBITDA was $123 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 10.6%, as compared to $161 million, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11.3% in Q1 2018. Further adjusting for the impact of all divestitures, Adjusted EBITDA improved 1.7% compared with Q1 2018 while adjusted EBITDA margin increased 70 bps. The company reported adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations of $0.14 compared to $0.22 in Q1 2018. Conduent had cash outflow from operations of $(49) million during the first quarter of 2019 compared to $(38) million in Q1 2018. In the quarter, Conduent continued to drive operating efficiencies, while investing in sales, API and technology infrastructure. Efficiency initiatives included the continued focus on Accu-shoring, with 52% of the global workforce now located in low-cost countries. The company is approximately 45 percent through its ~$200 million client-facing technology investment through the end of Q1 2019 and began its second large data center migration, which is scheduled to be completed by the end of May 2019. Several go-to-market initiatives were recently launched, including a consolidation of the Commercial business under a single leader, the launch of a large deals group and the development of a new business incubator, focused on finding, developing and graduating the next set of growth engine business offerings. Total contract value (TCV) signings of $952 million for the quarter were down (26.4)% compared with Q1 2018, due to a (38.7)% and (21.5)% year-over-year decrease in new business and renewal signings respectively. Financial and Strategic Outlook Conduent provided the following update to guidance ranges for FY 2019: (in millions) FY 2018 Reported Divestiture Impact (3) Adjusted FY 2018(4) Updated FY 2019 Guidance Revenue (constant currency)(1) $5.39B $752M $4.64B Down (3) - (4)% Adj. EBITDA Margin(2) 11.9% 11.5% 12 - 13% Adj. Free Cash Flow(2) $218M ~30% % of Adj. EBITDA 34.1% Note: Please refer to the "Non-GAAP Outlook" below for certain information concerning outlook. (1) Year-over-year revenue growth comparison at constant currency (2) Refer to Appendix for Non-GAAP reconciliations of adjusted EBITDA / margin and adjusted FCF and for impact from divestitures. FY 2019 FCF adjusted for Texas-related litigation impact (3) Includes all divestitures (4) Adjusted for 2018 and 2019 divestitures, and select Stand Alone Customer Care contracts Brian Webb-Walsh, CFO of Conduent stated, "We successfully closed on HSP, our first acquisition, and are already seeing strong demand for this technology offering from both new and existing clients. Our balance sheet remains strong and we are continuing to make investments in order to drive growth and profit improvement. We are focused on improving sales conversion, are shifting to the next phase of transformation and will address stranded costs associated with the divestitures that we completed over the past year." Conference Call Management will present the results during a conference call and webcast on May 8, 2019 at 5 p.m. ET. The call will be available by live audio webcast with the news release and online presentation slides at https://investor.conduent.com/. The conference call will also be available by calling 1-877-883-0383 (international dial-in 1-412-902-6506) at approximately 4:45 p.m. ET. The entry number for this call is 6541992. A recording of the conference call will be available by calling 1-877-344-7529, or 1-412-317-0088 one hour after the conference call concludes on May 8, 2019. The replay ID is 10130906. For international calls, please select a dial-in number from: https://services.choruscall.com/ccforms/replay.html About Conduent Conduent creates digital platforms and services for businesses and governments to manage millions of interactions every day for those they serve. We are leveraging the power of cloud, mobile and IoT, combined with technologies such as automation, cognitive and blockchain to elevate every constituent interaction, driving modern digital experiences that are more efficient, helpful and satisfying. Conduent's differentiated offerings touch millions of lives every day, including two-thirds of all insured patients in the U.S. and nearly nine million people who travel through toll systems daily. Whether it's digital payments, claims processing, benefit administration, automated tolling, customer care or distributed learning - Conduent serves a majority of the Fortune 100 companies and more than 500 government entities. Learn more at www.conduent.com. Non-GAAP Measures We have reported our financial results in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). In addition, we have discussed our financial results using non-GAAP measures. We believe these non-GAAP measures allow investors to better understand the trends in our business and to better understand and compare our results. Accordingly, we believe it is necessary to adjust several reported amounts, determined in accordance with GAAP, to exclude the effects of certain items as well as their related tax effects. Management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide an additional means of analyzing the current periods' results against the corresponding prior periods' results. These non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as a substitute for, the Company's reported results prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for comparable U.S. GAAP measures and should be read only in conjunction with our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our management regularly uses supplemental non-GAAP financial measures internally to understand, manage and evaluate our business and make operating decisions, and providing such non-GAAP financial measures to investors allows for a further level of transparency as to how management reviews and evaluates our business results and trends. These non-GAAP measures are among the primary factors management uses in planning for and forecasting future periods. Compensation of our executives is based in part on the performance of our business based on certain non-GAAP measures. Refer to the "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section attached to this release for a discussion of these non-GAAP measures and their reconciliation to the reported GAAP measures. Forward-Looking Statements This Report and any exhibits to this Report may contain "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "will," "should" and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current beliefs, assumptions and expectations and are subject to a number of factors that may cause actual results to differ materially. Such factors include, but are not limited to: government appropriations and termination rights contained in our government contracts; our ability to renew commercial and government contracts awarded through competitive bidding processes; our ability to recover capital and other investments in connection with our contracts; our ability to attract and retain necessary technical personnel and qualified subcontractors; our ability to deliver on our contractual obligations properly and on time; competitive pressures; our significant indebtedness; changes in interest in outsourced business process services; our ability to obtain adequate pricing for our services and to improve our cost structure; claims of infringement of third-party intellectual property rights; the failure to comply with laws relating to individually identifiable information, and personal health information and laws relating to processing certain financial transactions, including payment card transactions and debit or credit card transactions; breaches of our information systems or security systems or any service interruptions; our ability to estimate the scope of work or the costs of performance in our contracts; our continuing emphasis on and shift toward technology-led digital transactions; customer decision-making cycles and lead time for customer commitments; our ability to collect our receivables for unbilled services; a decline in revenues from or a loss or failure of significant clients; fluctuations in our non-recurring revenue; our failure to maintain a satisfactory credit rating; our ability to attract and retain key employees; increases in the cost of telephone and data services or significant interruptions in such services; our failure to develop new service offerings; our ability to modernize our information technology infrastructure and consolidate data centers; our ability to comply with data security standards; our ability to receive dividends or other payments from our subsidiaries; changes in tax and other laws and regulations; changes in government regulation and economic, strategic, political and social conditions; changes in U.S. GAAP or other applicable accounting policies; and other factors that are set forth in the "Risk Factors" section, the "Legal Proceedings" section, the "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" section and other sections in our 2018 Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as in our Current Reports on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements made by us in this report speak only as of the date on which they are made. We are under no obligation to, and expressly disclaim any obligation to, update or alter our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events or otherwise. CONDUENT INCORPORATED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions, except per share data) 2019 2018 Revenue $ 1,158 $ 1,420 Operating Costs and Expenses Cost of Services (excluding depreciation and amortization) 906 1,115 Selling, general and administrative (excluding depreciation and amortization) 127 143 Research and development (excluding depreciation and amortization) 3 2 Depreciation and amortization 115 116 Restructuring and related costs 16 20 Interest expense 20 33 Goodwill impairment 284 (Gain) loss on divestitures and transaction costs 14 15 Litigation costs (recoveries), net 12 31 Other (income) expenses, net (1) (1) Total Operating Costs and Expenses 1,496 1,474 Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes (338) (54) Income tax expense (benefit) (30) (4) Net Income (Loss) $ (308) $ (50) Net Income (Loss) per Share: Basic $ (1.49) $ (0.26) Diluted $ (1.49) $ (0.26) CONDUENT INCORPORATED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) 2019 2018 Net Income (Loss) $ (308) $ (50) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Currency translation adjustments, net 7 9 Reclassification of currency translation adjustments on divestitures 15 5 Reclassification of divested benefit plans and other (1) Unrecognized gains (loss), net 1 (1) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net 22 13 Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net $ (286) $ (37) CONDUENT INCORPORATED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED) (in millions, except share data in thousands) March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 520 $ 756 Accounts receivable, net 820 782 Assets held for sale 15 Contract assets 197 177 Other current assets 294 234 Total current assets 1,831 1,964 Land, buildings and equipment, net 336 328 Operating lease right-of-use assets 338 Intangible assets, net 627 651 Goodwill 3,171 3,408 Other long-term assets 360 329 Total Assets $ 6,663 $ 6,680 Liabilities and Equity Current portion of long-term debt $ 53 $ 55 Accounts payable 313 230 Accrued compensation and benefits costs 148 193 Unearned income 103 112 Liabilities held for sale 40 Other current liabilities 817 567 Total current liabilities 1,434 1,197 Long-term debt 1,496 1,512 Deferred taxes 283 327 Operating lease liabilities 282 Other long-term liabilities 99 280 Total Liabilities 3,594 3,316 Contingencies Series A convertible preferred stock 142 142 Common stock 2 2 Additional paid-in capital 3,879 3,878 Retained earnings (deficit) (551) (233) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (403) (425) Total Equity 2,927 3,222 Total Liabilities and Equity $ 6,663 $ 6,680 Shares of common stock issued and outstanding 211,623 211,306 Shares of series A convertible preferred stock issued and outstanding 120 120 CONDUENT INCORPORATED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED) Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) 2019 2018 Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net income (loss) $ (308) $ (50) Adjustments required to reconcile net income (loss) to cash flows from operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 115 116 Contract inducement amortization 1 1 Deferred income taxes (45) (8) Goodwill impairment 284 (Gain) loss from investments (1) (1) Amortization of debt financing costs 2 2 (Gain) loss on divestitures and transaction costs 14 15 Stock-based compensation 7 7 Changes in operating assets and liabilities (117) (119) Other operating, net (1) (1) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (49) (38) Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Cost of additions to land, buildings and equipment (53) (33) Proceeds from sale of land, buildings and equipment 1 Cost of additions to internal use software (17) (6) Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired (90) Payments from divestitures, including cash sold (9) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (168) (39) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Payments on debt (14) (21) Taxes paid for settlement of stock based compensation (6) (4) Dividends paid on preferred stock (2) (2) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (22) (27) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 2 Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (237) (104) Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at Beginning of Period 765 667 Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash at End of period(1) $ 528 $ 563 ___________ (1) Includes $8 million and $10 million of restricted cash as of March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, that were included in Other current assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Non-GAAP Financial Measures We have reported our financial results in accordance with U.S. GAAP. In addition, we have discussed our results using non-GAAP measures. We believe these non-GAAP measures allow investors to better understand the trends in our business and to better understand and compare our results. Accordingly, we believe it is necessary to adjust several reported amounts, determined in accordance with GAAP, to exclude the effects of certain items as well as their related tax effects. Management believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide an additional means of analyzing the current periods' results against the corresponding prior periods' results. However, these non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as a substitute for, the Company's reported results prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for comparable U.S. GAAP measures and should be read only in conjunction with our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our management regularly uses our supplemental non-GAAP financial measures internally to understand, manage and evaluate our business and make operating decisions, and providing such non-GAAP financial measures to investors allows for a further level of transparency as to how management reviews and evaluates our business results and trends. These non-GAAP measures are among the primary factors management uses in planning for and forecasting future periods. Compensation of our executives is based in part on the performance of our business based on certain non-GAAP measures. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are provided below. These reconciliations also include the income tax effects for our non-GAAP performance measures in total, to the extent applicable. The income tax effects are calculated under the same accounting principles as applied to our reported pre-tax performance measures under ASC 740, which employs an annual effective tax rate method. The noted income tax effect for our non-GAAP performance measures is effectively the difference in income taxes for reported and adjusted pre-tax income calculated under the annual effective tax rate method. The tax effect of the non-GAAP adjustments was calculated based upon evaluation of the statutory tax treatment and the applicable statutory tax rate in the jurisdictions in which such charges were incurred. Adjusted Net Income (Loss), Adjusted Earnings per Share and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate We make adjustments to Income (Loss) before Income Taxes for the following items for the purpose of calculating Adjusted Net Income (Loss), Adjusted Earnings per Share and Adjusted Effective Tax Rate: Amortization of acquired intangible assets. The amortization of acquired intangible assets is driven by acquisition activity, which can vary in size, nature and timing as compared to other companies within our industry and from period to period. Restructuring and related costs. Restructuring and related costs include restructuring and asset impairment charges as well as costs associated with our strategic transformation program. Goodwill impairment. This represents Goodwill impairment charge related to the loss of certain Transportation segment customer contracts, lower expected new Transportation segment customer contracts and higher costs of delivery. (Gain) loss on divestitures and transaction costs. Represents (gain) loss on divested businesses and transaction costs. Litigation costs (recoveries), net. Litigation costs (recoveries), net represents reserves for the State of Texas litigation, Student Loan Service exposures and certain terminated contracts that are subject to litigation. litigation, Student Loan Service exposures and certain terminated contracts that are subject to litigation. Other (income) expenses, net. Other (income) expenses, net includes currency (gains) losses, net and all other (income) expenses, net. NY MMIS charge (credit). Costs associated with the Company not fully completing the State of New York Health Enterprise Platform project. HE charge (credit). Costs associated with not fully completing the Health Enterprise Medical platform projects in California and Montana . and . 2018 Divestitures. Revenue/(Income) loss from divestitures. The Company provides adjusted net income and adjusted EPS financial measures to assist our investors in evaluating our ongoing operating performance for the current reporting period and, where provided, over different reporting periods, by adjusting for certain items which may be recurring or non-recurring and which in our view do not necessarily reflect ongoing performance. We also internally use these measures to assess our operating performance, both absolutely and in comparison to other companies, and in evaluating or making selected compensation decisions. Management believes that the adjusted effective tax rate, provided as supplemental information, facilitates a comparison by investors of our actual effective tax rate with an adjusted effective tax rate which reflects the impact of the items which are excluded in providing adjusted net income and certain other identified items, and may provide added insight into our underlying business results and how effective tax rates impact our ongoing business. Adjusted Revenue and Operating Income and Adjusted Operating Margin We make adjustments to Revenue, Costs and Expenses and Operating Margin for the following items, for the purpose of calculating Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Operating Income and Adjusted Operating Margin: Amortization of acquired intangible assets. Restructuring and related costs. Interest expense. Interest expense includes interest on long-term debt and amortization of debt issuance costs. Goodwill impairment. (Gain) loss on divestitures and transaction costs. Litigation costs (recoveries), net. Other (income) expenses, net. NY MMIS charge (credit). HE charge (credit). 2018 Divestitures. We provide our investors with adjusted revenue, adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margin information, as supplemental information, because we believe it offers added insight, by itself and for comparability between periods, by adjusting for certain non-cash items as well as certain other identified items which we do not believe are indicative of our ongoing business, and may also provide added insight on trends in our ongoing business. Adjusted EBITDA and EBITDA Margin We use Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin as an additional way of assessing certain aspects of our operations that, when viewed with the GAAP results and the accompanying reconciliations to corresponding GAAP financial measures, provide a more complete understanding of our on-going business. Adjusted EBITDA represents income (loss) before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization and contract inducement amortization adjusted for the following items. Adjusted EBITDA margin is Adjusted EBITDA divided by adjusted revenue. Restructuring and related costs. Goodwill impairment. (Gain) loss on divestitures and transaction costs. Litigation costs (recoveries), net. Other (income) expenses, net. NY MMIS charge (credit). HE charge (credit). 2018 Divestitures. Adjusted EBITDA is not intended to represent cash flows from operations, operating income (loss) or net income (loss) as defined by U.S. GAAP as indicators of operating performances. Management cautions that amounts presented in accordance with Conduent's definition of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies because not all companies calculate Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin in the same manner. Free Cash Flow Free Cash Flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities as reported on the consolidated statement of cash flows, less cost of additions to land, buildings and equipment, cost of additions to internal use software, tax payments related to divestitures, vendor financed capital lease additions and proceeds from sales of land, buildings and equipment. We use the non-GAAP measure of Free Cash Flow as a criterion of liquidity and performance-based components of employee compensation. We use Free Cash Flow as a measure of liquidity to determine, after required principal payments on debt, amounts we can reinvest in our core businesses, such as amounts available to make acquisitions, invest in land, buildings and equipment and internal use software. In order to provide a meaningful basis for comparison, we are providing information with respect to our Free Cash Flow reconciled to cash flow provided by operating activities, which we believe to be the most directly comparable measure under U.S. GAAP. Adjusted Free Cash Flow Adjusted free cash flow is defined as free cash flow from above plus deferred compensation payments, transaction costs, costs related to the Texas litigation and other identified items. Adjusted Cash Adjusted cash is defined as the cash and cash equivalents less cash from terminated deferred compensation to be paid to plan participants. We believe this provides added insight into cash and cash equivalents taking into account this particular cash obligation. Constant Currency To better understand trends in our business, we believe that it is helpful to adjust revenue to exclude the impact of changes in the translation of foreign currencies into U.S. Dollars. We refer to this adjusted revenue as "constant currency." Currency impact is the difference between actual growth rates and constant currency growth rates and is calculated by translating current period activity in local currency using the comparable prior period's currency translation rate. Non-GAAP Outlook In providing outlook for adjusted EBITDA we exclude certain items which are otherwise included in determining the comparable GAAP financial measure. A description of the adjustments which historically have been applicable in determining adjusted EBITDA are reflected in the table below. We are providing such outlook only on a non-GAAP basis because the Company is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the totality or ultimate outcome or occurrence of these adjustments for the forward-looking period, such as amortization, restructuring, separation costs, NY MMIS, HE charge, and certain other adjusted items, which can be dependent on future events that may not be reliably predicted. Based on past reported results, where one or more of these items have been applicable, such excluded items could be material, individually or in the aggregate, to reported results. We have provided an outlook for revenue on a constant currency basis due to the inability to accurately predict foreign currency impact on revenues. Outlook for Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Free Cash Flow is provided as a factor of expected adjusted EBITDA, see above. Non-GAAP Reconciliations: Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), Adjusted Effective Tax, Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) and Adjusted EBITDA were as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) 2019 2018 ADJUSTED REVENUE Revenue $ 1,158 $ 1,420 Adjustment: 2018 Divestitures(1) (36) (248) Adjusted Revenue $ 1,122 $ 1,172 ADJUSTED NET INCOME (LOSS) Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations $ (308) $ (50) Adjustments: Amortization of acquired intangible assets(2) 62 61 Restructuring and related costs 16 20 Goodwill impairment 284 (Gain) loss on divestitures and transaction costs 14 15 Litigation costs (recoveries), net 12 31 Other (income) expenses, net (1) (1) Total Non-GAAP Adjustments(3) 387 126 Income tax adjustments(3) (47) (29) Adjusted Income (Loss) Before Adjustment for Divestitures $ 32 $ 47 ADJUSTED EFFECTIVE TAX Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes $ (338) $ (54) Adjustments: Total Non-GAAP Adjustments(3) 387 126 Adjusted PBT (Before Adjustment for Divestitures) 49 72 2018 Divestitures(1) (1) (39) Adjusted PBT $ 48 $ 33 Income tax expense (benefit) $ (30) $ (4) Income tax adjustments(3) 47 29 Adjusted Income Tax Expense (Benefit) 17 25 Adjusted Net Income (Loss) Before Adjustment for Divestitures) $ 32 $ 47 CONTINUED Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) 2019 2018 ADJUSTED OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes $ (338) $ (54) Adjustments: Total non-GAAP adjustments(3) 387 126 Interest expense 20 33 Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) Before Adjustment for Divestitures 69 105 2018 divestitures(1) (1) (39) Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) $ 68 $ 66 ADJUSTED EBITDA Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations $ (308) $ (50) Income tax expense (benefit) (30) (4) Depreciation and amortization 115 116 Contract inducement amortization 1 1 Interest expense 20 33 EBITDA Before Adjustment for Divestiture (202) 96 2018 divestitures(1) (1) (39) 2018 divestitures depreciation and amortization(1) (2) EBITDA (203) 55 Adjustments: Restructuring and related costs 16 20 Goodwill impairment 284 (Gain) loss on divestitures and transaction costs 14 15 Litigation costs (recoveries), net 12 31 Other (income) expenses, net (1) (1) Adjusted EBITDA Before Adjustment for Divestiture $ 123 $ 161 Adjusted EBITDA $ 122 $ 120 ___________ (1) Adjusted for the full impact from revenue and income/loss from divestitures. (2) Included in Depreciation and amortization on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss). (3) The tax impact of Adjusted Pre-tax income (loss) from continuing operations was calculated under the same accounting principles applied to the 'As Reported' pre-tax income (loss), which employs an annual effective tax rate method to the results and without regard to the business divestitures, the State of Texas litigation reserve, loss on extinguishment of debt, charges for amortization of intangible assets, restructuring and divestiture related costs. Non-GAAP Reconciliations: Adjusted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding, Diluted EPS, Adjusted Effective Tax, Adjusted Operating Margin and Adjusted EBITDA Margins for the Non-GAAP reconciliations above were as follows: Three Months Ended March 31, (Amounts are in whole dollars, shares are in thousands and margins are in %) 2019 2018 ADJUSTED DILUTED EPS (1) Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding 207,944 205,093 Adjustments: Stock options 27 143 Restricted stock and performance units / shares 2,783 2,773 Adjusted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding 210,754 208,009 Diluted EPS from Continuing Operations $ (1.49) $ (0.26) Adjustments: Total non-GAAP adjustments(2) 1.85 0.62 Income tax adjustments(2) (0.22) (0.14) Adjusted Diluted EPS Before Adjustment for Divestitures $ 0.14 $ 0.22 ADJUSTED EFFECTIVE TAX RATE Effective tax rate 8.9 % 7.4 % Adjustments: Total non-GAAP adjustments(2) 25.8 % 27.3 % Adjusted Effective Tax Rate(2) 34.7 % 34.7 % ADJUSTED OPERATING MARGIN Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes Margin (29.2) % (3.8) % Adjustments: Total non-GAAP adjustments 33.5 % 8.9 % Interest expense 1.7 % 2.3 % Margin for Adjusted Operating Income Before Adjustment for Divestitures 6.0 % 7.4 % 2018 divestitures(3) 0.1 % (1.8) % Margin for Adjusted Operating Income 6.1 % 5.6 % CONTINUED Three Months Ended March 31, (margins are in %) 2019 2018 ADJUSTED EBITDA MARGIN EBITDA margin Before Adjustment for Divestitures (17.4) % 6.8 % Adjustments: 2018 divestitures(3) (0.7) % (2.1) % EBITDA Margin (18.1) % 4.7 % Total non-GAAP adjustments 28.0 % 4.5 % 2018 divestitures(3) (0.1) % 2.1 % Adjusted EBITDA Margin Before Adjustment for Divestitures 10.6 % 11.3 % 2018 divestitures(3) 0.3 % (1.1) % Adjusted EBITDA Margin 10.9 % 10.2 % __________ (1) Average shares for the 2019 and 2018 calculation of adjusted EPS excludes 5 million shares associated with our Series A convertible preferred stock and includes the impact of the preferred stock dividend of $2.4 million for both of the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively (2) The tax impact of Adjusted Pre-tax income (loss) from continuing operations was calculated under the same accounting principles applied to the 'As Reported' pre-tax income (loss), which employs an annual effective tax rate method to the results and without regard to the business divestitures, the State of Texas litigation reserve, loss on extinguishment of debt, charges for amortization of intangible assets, restructuring and divestiture related costs. (3) Adjusted for the full impact from revenue and income/loss from divestitures. Free Cash Flow Reconciliation: Three Months Ended March 31, (in millions) 2019 2018 Operating Cash Flow $ (49) $ (38) Cost of additions to land, buildings and equipment (53) (33) Proceeds from sales of land, buildings and equipment 1 Cost of additions to internal use software (17) (6) Tax payment related to divestitures 2 Free Cash Flow $ (116) $ (77) Free Cash Flow $ (116) $ (77) Transaction costs 3 1 Litigation payments 20 Deferred compensation payments and adjustments 7 Adjusted Free Cash Flow $ (93) $ (69) Cash / Adjusted Cash Reconciliation: (in millions) As of March 31, 2019 As of December 31, 2018 Cash and cash equivalents $ 520 $ 756 Deferred compensation payments and adjustments 99 Deferred compensation payable (99) Adjusted cash and cash equivalents $ 520 $ 756 SOURCE Conduent Incorporated Related Links https://www.conduent.com NEWARK, N.J., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Conrac Solutions today announced the innovative, successful private financing of the new Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility planned for Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The recent approval by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey brings the airport one step closer to realizing a world-class facility that brings all rent-a-car companies at Newark under one roof at a convenient location as part of the Terminal One Redevelopment Program. Financing of the $500 million project was arranged by Conrac Solutions Capital with equity provided and critical strategic implementation by Related Fund Management and Fengate Asset Management. A consortium of banks led by MUFG, CIBC and NBC is providing the debt financing for the project. The deal includes a fixed-price, date-certain and fully-bonded Design Build contract for construction with a joint venture of Austin Commercial, Inc. and VRH Construction Corporation. The project structure includes all design, construction, financing, operations, maintenance and lifecycle management throughout construction and the 35-year lease period. Key advisors to Conrac Solutions on this transaction include Goldman Sachs as financial advisor and Allen & Overy LLP as legal counsel. The financing structure utilized is both unique and an anticipated model for ConRACs at airports throughout the nation with the financing supplied by equity partners and then repaid solely out of proceeds received from the Customer Facility Charge ("CFC") applied to rental car transactions. "Unlike similar projects at other major U.S. airports, that can put airports at risk for availability payments, this financial structure was made possible by CS Capital and its equity partners, Related and Fengate, with sponsorship from the rent-a-car industry, and the foresight of the Port Authority to embrace an innovative approach," stated Mark Pfeffer, Chairman and CEO of Conrac Solutions. "The Port Authority has a renewed customer-centric focus that not only improves the travel experience, but provides customers with services and amenities that complement our mission to build world-class facilities," said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O'Toole. "The ConRAC facility is a perfect complement to the new Terminal One which will serve travelers as a gateway to New Jersey and the region." Related Infrastructure, a subsidiary of Related Fund Management, invests in companies that develop, operate and service transportation infrastructure across the country. Andrew Right, Managing Partner of Related Infrastructure said, "Conrac Solutions is a market leader in ConRAC facilities and we are pleased to partner with them and the PANYNJ on a creative private capital solution that will help realize a holistic one-stop solution for rent-a-car operations for the millions of passengers who pass through EWR each year, and is anticipated to become a national model for private-sector investment in these facilities." Fengate develops and invests in infrastructure projects across North America that require design, construction, financing, operations, maintenance and lifecycle management throughout a construction and operations period. "We are pleased to be involved in this landmark transaction and applaud the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey for recognizing the merits of partnering with private capital," said Mac Bell, Director and Head of P3 Investments, Fengate. Groundbreaking for the project is anticipated in May 2019, with completion of the public parking area in 2021 and the ConRAC in 2023. Newark Liberty International Airport's new 2.7 million square foot ConRAC will be constructed on a 16.65-acre site, with 2,925 public parking spaces and 3,380 rental car spaces to support 10 rent-a-car brands. It incorporates retail operations with customer wayfinding and traffic circulation, provides vehicle fleet storage and enhanced security, and includes shared components such as 15 car washes and 54 fueling positions along with vacuum systems, waste management and service bays. The project employs several sustainability initiatives including a solar roof, electric vehicle charging stations, LED efficient lighting, and water reclamation and air quality systems. For project renderings and more information visit https://www.conracsolutions.com/EWR-media. About Conrac Solutions: Headquartered in Renton, WA, the Conrac Solutions family of companies are the only entity in the United States to have privately developed, on-airport, consolidated rent-a-car facilities (ConRACs). The company is a developer, financial sponsor, and operator of ConRACs with experience in predevelopment and feasibility, financing strategies, design and construction, activation, operations, asset management and capital project management. Its leadership team has 80 years combined experience delivering privately developed, on-airport, ConRACs. Over the past decade, Conrac Solutions has worked closely with the rent-a-car agencies to find ways to more efficiently and effectively deliver, operate and maintain ConRACs. Completed projects include Ted Stevens Anchorage Intl. Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, and Bismarck Airport. ConRACs currently under contract for planning/delivery include Bradley International Airport (Hartford, CT) and Newark Liberty International Airport. For more information go to: https://www.conracsolutions.com. About Related Fund Management: Related Fund Management is the investment management arm of global real estate firm Related Companies, and is staffed by a seasoned team of over 40 professionals. Since inception, Related Fund Management has raised over $5 billion of capital across a variety of different investment vehicles and strategies. The platform is primarily focused on opportunistic real estate investments; the origination and acquisition of debt; multifamily housing opportunities; and investments in infrastructure-related development, management and services. Capitalizing on decades of experience as a developer, investor and operator and our deep expertise in public-private partnerships, Related Infrastructure invests in, and grows, infrastructure-related businesses and initiatives. Targeted investment opportunities include platforms that develop, service and manage transportation-related assets and municipal assets as well as companies providing infrastructure-related businesses, services and technologies. For more information on Related, please visit www.Related.com. About Fengate Asset Management: Fengate is a leading alternative investment manager focused on infrastructure, private equity and real estate strategies. With offices in Toronto, Houston, New York, Vancouver and Oakville, Fengate is one of the most active real asset investors in North America and the firm has been investing in infrastructure across North America since 2006. We have worked hard to earn our reputation as a proven investor and trusted partner, and to establish strong market relationships. Learn more at www.fengate.com. SOURCE Conrac Solutions Related Links https://www.conracsolutions.com CreditEase Wealth Management is a long-term partner to Chinese HNWs, and provides services and products related to investment, quality of life, succession, education and philanthropy. CreditEase Wealth Management combines digital innovation with deep economic and investment research, to deliver wealth management solutions to clients Core to CreditEase Wealth Management's proposition is our 'Three Golden Principles for Asset Allocation' investment strategy, which highlights the importance of allocation across geographies and asset classes, as well as an overweight allocation to alternatives, via Fund of Funds. SHANGHAI, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- CreditEase Wealth Management (CreditEase WM) attended Asian Private Banker's inaugural China Wealth Awards Gala Dinner in Shanghai on May 7, and was awarded the Best Wealth Manager in China for Investment Research & Advisory, and Alternative Investment Advisory. The Asian Private Banker's inaugural China Wealth Awards for wealth management in China are designed for the Chinese market to recognize private banks, institutions and independent wealth management firms for their achievements in the unique market environment of China in 2018, and to affirm their efforts to drive industry change and guide customers. The participants are required to be Chinese wealth management agencies, private banks or foreign-funded institutions operating in China. The categories of awards cover business and operations, client services, and investment solutions. CreditEase Wealth Management wins the Best Wealth Manager in China for Alternative Investment Advisory Hou Lin, Senior Vice President of CreditEase, said, "We are very honored to receive these awards: Best Wealth Manager in China for Investment Research & Advisory and Alternative Investment Advisory, which recognize the quality of our services to our HNW clients. CreditEase WM is committed to becoming a long-term partner of clients in terms of investment, life, succession, education and philanthropy." "CreditEase WM provides professional services, which greatly helps our clients solve three major pain points - business digital remodeling, investment and succession. Our 'Three Golden Principles for Asset Allocation' remains a cornerstone for our wealth management business, and we continue to support our clients with cross-region allocation, cross-asset-class allocation, and having an overweight position in alternative assets via Fund of Funds for long-term investment. The advice of CreditEase WM to HNWIs & UHNWIs remains consistent: guiding our clients away from sole focus on limited asset domestic asset classes, to global asset allocation across multiple asset classes. CreditEase WM recommends investors to construct a multi-asset-class portfolio consisting of traditional assets, such as stocks and bonds, as well as various types of alternative assets, through the exercise of asset allocation and long-term investment," Lin added. CreditEase Wealth Management wins the Best Wealth Manager in China for Investment Research & Advisory "The Asset Allocation Strategy Research Team (the "Team") mainly focuses on generating research-based house views on the global macro economy and various major asset classes, providing guidance to our HNWIs on investments and generating research support for new product development," Lin said. "The Team focuses on not only the macro economy and short-term market movements, but also structural changes in the economy, and the trend of the overall economy and each asset class. The research work delivered by the Team, as recognized by investors, is fact-based, detail-oriented and forward looking." Back in early 2016, CreditEase WM launched the first "Global Asset Allocation White Paper" for retail investors, and recommended our "Three Golden Principles for Asset Allocation". From that time onward, CreditEase WM has renewed its "Guidance on Asset Allocation Strategy" annually, providing annual updates on recommended asset allocation by asset class, with the aim to help our HNW clients protect and grow their assets. 2018 marks the 40th anniversary of China's market opening and reform. The year will also go down in history as a turning point for China's private banking and wealth management industry, which has experienced a decade of exponential growth since its founding in 2007. At this critical juncture, and during the momentous year of 2018, Asian Private Banker has chosen to launch its inaugural China Wealth Awards. In doing so, they believe practitioners who have delivered best practice services under China's unique circumstances and market environment, and who have driven positive change in the industry, and guided clients, deserve congratulation and recognition. About CreditEase Wealth Management CreditEase Wealth Management (CreditEase WM) is the wealth management brand for high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals under CreditEase, a leading fintech company. As a leading player in China's wealth management industry, CreditEase WM aims to become the top wealth management brand for Chinese high net worth individuals around the globe. The company has set up branches in mainland China, and its business presence has also extended into Hong Kong, Singapore, Israel, Europe and North America. CreditEase WM provides professional investment services and life services for high net worth clients, and is committed to becoming a long-term partner of clients in terms of investment, life, succession, education and philanthropy. Investment services provided under its global asset allocation investment advisory service include domestic and offshore quasi fixed income, private equity, public equity, hedge fund, and real estate fund asset classes. Life services cover investment-driven immigration, offshore direct real estate investment, family trust, insurance and protection, tax planning, high-end education, and philanthropy. https://i.yixin.com About Asian Private Banker Asian Private Banker has the world's largest and best-connected bureau of journalists and researchers delivering independent, authoritative and indispensable intelligence, data and connections solely focused on private banking and wealth management in Asia and the Middle East. Established in Hong Kong in 2009, Asian Private Banker is well regarded for its independent and authoritative coverage of the rapidly growing private wealth management industry in the region. Its information and data are often cited by the global and regional financial media and consulting firms. In 2011, the media launched awards for private banks, wealth management institutions and other organizations with private wealth management functions in Asia-Pacific, aiming to set industry benchmarks and share best practices through professional, independent and rigorous selection process. SOURCE CreditEase Wealth Management Related Links https://i.yixin.com SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Dalrada Financial Corp. (OTCBB: DFCO) has signed a lease and opened an office in Bangalore, India for the operations of its wholly owned subsidiaries, Dalrada Precision and Dalrada Health Products. Bangalore is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka. It has a population of over ten million. Dalrada's CEO Brian Bonar said the company is looking forward to sharing more exciting details about the new operation. "We anticipate significant revenues via the Indian marketplace," he said. Safe Harbor: Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding future revenues and sales projections, plans for future financing, the ability to meet operational milestones, marketing arrangements and plans, and shipments to and regulatory approvals in international markets. Such statements reflect management's current views, are based on certain assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results, events, or performance may differ materially from the above forward-looking statements due to a number of important factors, and will be dependent upon a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, our ability to obtain additional financing that will allow us to continue our current and future operations and whether demand for our products and services in domestic and international markets will continue to expand. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof or to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard to these forward-looking statements or the occurrence of unanticipated events. Factors that may impact the Company's success are more fully disclosed in the Company's most recent public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including its annual report on Form 10-K. SOURCE Dalrada Financial Corp. LAS VEGAS, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Deloitte today announced that it has been recognized by ServiceNow with a record six 2019 ServiceNow Partner of the Year awards. Two are global awards for Transformation Partner of the Year and Employee Workflow Partner of the Year, and four are regional awards including Americas Employee Workflow Partner of the Year, Asia Pacific Industry Solutions Partner of the Year, Asia Pacific Transformation Partner of the Year, and Asia Pacific Employee Workflow Partner of the Year. The ServiceNow Global Alliances and Channel Ecosystem recognizes the achievements and contributions of best in class Partners who have successfully grown the ServiceNow business through transformation or innovation in business, technology and customer success. This year's awards are based on Partner performance in 2018 a combination of revenue contribution, product line expansion, workflow and skill growth; and business innovation or transformation. The following are the complete list of award recognitions: Global Transformation Partner of the Year for demonstrating overall excellence in delivering a transformational solution that enabled significant client business value. for demonstrating overall excellence in delivering a transformational solution that enabled significant client business value. Global Employee Workflow Partner of the Year for demonstrating overall excellence in expanding breadth and depth of Employee Experience Cloud Practice size. for demonstrating overall excellence in expanding breadth and depth of Employee Experience Cloud Practice size. Americas Employee Workflow Partner of the Year for demonstrating overall excellence in expanding breadth and depth of Employee Experience Cloud Practice size. for demonstrating overall excellence in expanding breadth and depth of Employee Experience Cloud Practice size. Asia Pacific Industry Solutions Partner of the Year for demonstrating overall excellence in delivering an innovative industry solution that enabled significant client business value. for demonstrating overall excellence in delivering an innovative industry solution that enabled significant client business value. Asia Pacific Employee Workflow Partner of the Year for demonstrating overall excellence in expanding breadth and depth of Employee Experience Cloud Practice size. for demonstrating overall excellence in expanding breadth and depth of Employee Experience Cloud Practice size. Asia Pacific Transformation Partner of the Year for demonstrating overall excellence in delivering a transformational solution that enabled significant client business value. These award wins follow Deloitte's recognition as EMEA Transformation Partner of the Year announced in March 2019 at the ServiceNow Partner Summit in Barcelona. "We are thrilled to be honored as 'partner of the year' in six categories and extremely proud of the relationship we've built with ServiceNow over the years," said Den Roenfeldt, principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP and U.S. ServiceNow alliance leader. "These awards from ServiceNow demonstrate our team's capabilities to reimagine the flow of work for our clients by improving the human experience and delivering real value with their digital transformation journeys." These awards were presented at the Global Partner Ecosystems Summit that takes place as part of Knowledge 2019, where extraordinary people come together to take work to the next level. Visit our website for more information on Deloitte's relationship with ServiceNow. About Deloitte Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax and advisory services to many of the world's most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500 and more than 5,000 private and middle market companies. Our people work across the industry sectors that drive and shape today's marketplace to make an impact that matters delivering measurable and lasting results that help reinforce public trust in our capital markets, inspire clients to see challenges as opportunities to transform and thrive, and help lead the way toward a stronger economy and a healthy society. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. ServiceNow, the ServiceNow logo, Now, Now Platform, and other ServiceNow marks are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of ServiceNow, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other company names, product names, and logos may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. ServiceNow and Knowledge are registered trademarks of ServiceNow. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ("DTTL"), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as "Deloitte Global") does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the "Deloitte" name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms. SOURCE Deloitte Related Links http://www.deloitte.com/us CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Diamond Key Security (DKS) is pleased to announce it has received a $33,000 USD grant from the Vietsch Foundation for its groundbreaking global work offering an open-source cryptographic solution for the public good. The Vietsch Foundation funds will assist in supporting the research in the development, enhancement, and deployment of transparent, auditable cryptographic technologieshelping to safeguard the internet for educational and research purposesfor all users. "We are grateful to the Vietsch Foundation for their sponsorship of Diamond Key Security," said Stuart Jones, Managing Director DKS. "It's critical that we dramatically increase the reach of our solutions, particularly among non-profit higher education networks driving scientific research and innovation. The Vietsch Foundation grant will help to leverage our strengths for maximum impact." "We found the Diamond Key Security project very valuable, and we're keen to contribute with our grant; adding tangible value to security solutions for the research and education of the user community," said Valentino Cavalli, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Vietsch Foundation. The mission of the Vietsch Foundation (http://www.vietsch-foundation.org) is to promote research and development of advanced Internet technology for scientific research and higher education. About Diamond Key Security Diamond Key Security, headquartered in Palatine, Illinois, was formed in March 2017 as a not-for-profit corporation described under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. Its educational, charitable, and scientific purposes include conducting scientific research in the development, enhancement, and deployment of transparent, auditable cryptographic technologieshelping to safeguard the internet for the public good. For more information, visit dkey.org/. Media Contact: Sylvia R. Hampton, MSM Hampton Bates Public Relations O 603.570.4816 M 617.413.6764 E [email protected] SOURCE Diamond Key Security Related Links http://dkey.org Held in secret locations in cities across the United States, Diner en Noir has events planned in Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Houston & Miami for 2019. When asked what sets Diner en Noir apart from its "Diner in White" counterpart, Founder and President Howard Nelson Cromwell said, "First, you can forgo dragging your tables, chairs, food, etc, by optioning for our catered Plated or Full Experiences. Beyond that, as a small business entrepreneur myself, I was very clear from the inception that our aim would be to support the arts and small business communities of our host cities. When possible, we use local, small business vendors vs. large companies and allow the small business to become Partnering Sponsors. It was also imperative that we give back to the local communities of our host cities, so we donate a portion of the proceeds to local arts & small business development organizations." Founded on a concept of inviting and partnering with local businesses to come together and promote each city's unique artistic talent & businesses, Diner en Noir has become both, a networking opportunity for its guests, as well as a chic elegant way to support the local community. About Diner en Noir: Diner en Noir events are fully-curated, 3-part, all black attire dining experiences held in secret locations in cities across the United States. Its mission is to promote the city's arts and business communities by uniting friends and strangers alike from diverse backgrounds for a night of elegance, great food, arts, music, dancing and communion for each unique dining event in support of the arts and business communities. For more information, please visit www.dinerennoir.com. Contact: Howard N. Cromwell HNC Communications & Marketing [email protected] | 202-417-7033 SOURCE Diner en Noir Related Links http://www.dinerennoir.com SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Docker today announced that former Hortonworks Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Rob Bearden will be joining the company as CEO in early June. Rob brings over 20 years of experience in building and scaling world-class software companies, including some of the most commercially successful open source companies such as Hortonworks (merged with Cloudera), SpringSource (acquired by VMware) and JBoss (acquired by Red Hat). In his new role at Docker, Rob will accelerate Docker's enterprise go-to-market strategy while continuing to fuel innovation in the technologies and products that drive digital transformation in an increasingly hybrid cloud world. Rob will also serve on Docker's board of directors. Steve Singh, Docker's CEO, will continue to serve as Docker's Chairman. "Over the past few years, Docker has made incredible strides, emerging as the leading container platform provider for customers across the globe, who are digitally transforming their businesses," said Steve Singh, CEO and Chairman of Docker. "As we look ahead to the next 10 years of Docker's market opportunity, the board and I wanted to find a leader with world-class experience in building open source technology companies. We found that leader in Rob. In the time I have spent working with Rob, what has really impressed me, beyond his extensive background, is his commitment to his people and to serving customers. Under Rob's leadership, Docker will not only scale out an already wonderful business, it will also continue to change the technology landscape. I look forward to working with Rob over the next several months to help him smoothly transition into his new role." Rob is a proven enterprise leader, building Hortonworks, prior to its merger with Cloudera, to be the fastest enterprise software companies to reach $100M in annual revenue and the first open source company to successfully IPO since Red Hat. Rob was also the Chief Operating Officer at both SpringSource and JBoss, two other commercially successful open source companies. Rob joins Docker at a time when the company is experiencing strong momentum in the enterprise software market with more than 750 commercial customers and the recognition of its flagship product, Docker Enterprise, as the leader in the enterprise container platform category. Rob will work with the leadership team to continue to drive adoption for the Docker platform while expanding the number of customers, partners and community members that look to Docker to accelerate software development and delivery across all industries. "When Steve approached me with the chance to be part of this amazing team and company, I knew there was no way I could pass up this opportunity," said Rob Bearden, incoming CEO of Docker. "As companies look to create the next generation of applications and services, Docker will be the competitive differentiation that will drive their businesses forward into the new digital future. I look forward to collaborating with the Docker team, our go-to-market partners, customers and the entire ecosystem to build on the strong foundation that Steve and team have created and scale to address the next wave of growth and innovation." "Steve and I are excited about Rob joining Docker as its next CEO. Rob's experience scaling open source companies will be invaluable to Docker as it embarks on the next phase of its growth," said Peter Fenton, General Partner at Benchmark Capital. "We recruited Steve from his board service at Docker to build the business of Docker. Under his leadership, Docker has transformed from an open source success into a thriving business. On behalf of the board, I want to thank Steve for his leadership. Steve and I look forward to working with Rob in the years ahead." Since Docker's inception and subsequent pioneering of the container industry in 2013, the company has experienced rapid growth amounting to more than 105 billion container downloads, a rich and innovative ecosystem that includes millions of developers, and hundreds of partner companies in addition to more than 750 commercial customers worldwide. Docker's industry-changing technology is accelerating an evolution of traditional technologies by addressing major enterprise initiatives - from hybrid cloud and digital transformation to application modernization. About Docker Docker, the leader in the container platform market, provides the only independent container platform that enables a seamless desktop to cloud experience for developing and scaling distributed applications. Docker enables organizations to easily build and share any application from legacy to modern and securely run them anywhere, from hybrid cloud to the edge. Inspired by open source innovation and supported by a rich ecosystem of certified partners, Docker enables customers to pursue the right strategy for their business and adapt to new technologies, without lock-in. For more information, please visit: https://www.docker.com/. Contact: Gabe Taylor Docker [email protected] SOURCE Docker Related Links https://www.docker.com ATLANTA, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Philanthropist Elaine Chambers has been elected to the board of directors of the CDC Foundation. Chambers has a passion for supporting educational and health initiatives both in Northern California, where she resides, as well as nationally. "Elaine is committed to improving the public's health, and this commitment is evident in her dedicated board service and through her philanthropic support of numerous health and education-focused organizations," said Judith Monroe, MD, president and chief executive officer of the CDC Foundation. "We are very pleased to have her join our board, and she will be a tremendous asset as we work to extend the lifesaving work of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention through partnerships in the United States and around the globe." From 20062019, Chambers has been a board member with the Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health in Palo Alto, CA. She served as board chair for the foundation from 20152018. The foundation's mission is to elevate the priority of children's health and increase the quality and accessibility of children's healthcare. In addition, Chambers served on the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford board of directors from 20152018. This hospital is part of the only health system in the San Francisco Bay Areaand one of only few in the nationthat is exclusively dedicated to pediatric and obstetric care. Chambers and her husband, John, are committed to helping others and have contributed to such institutions as the Children's Health Council, All Students Matter, the Mid-Peninsula Boys & Girls Club, Leading for Kids, the Stanford Women's Cancer Center and West Virginia University business and educational opportunities. Chambers is a graduate of West Virginia University and has a master's degree in Speech Pathology from The University of Memphis. About the CDC Foundation The CDC Foundation helps the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) save and improve lives by unleashing the power of collaboration between CDC, philanthropies, corporations, organizations and individuals to protect the health, safety and security of America and the world. The CDC Foundation is the sole entity authorized by Congress to mobilize philanthropic partners and private-sector resources to support CDC's critical health protection mission. Since 1995, the CDC Foundation has launched approximately 1,000 programs and raised over $800 million. The CDC Foundation managed nearly 300 CDC-led programs in the United States and in more than 130 countries last year. For more information, visit http://www.cdcfoundation.org. Follow the Foundation on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. SOURCE CDC Foundation Related Links http://www.cdcfoundation.org LONDON, May 8, 2019 PRNewswire/-- Eminent barrister Balraj Bhatia, a Queen's Counsel and a member of London's Inner Temple, has given a formal opinion on whether "citizenship by investment" (CBI) in the Caribbean islands of Dominica and St Kitts and Nevis allows the circumvention of tax liabilities. The opinion refers specifically to two recent reports addressing the matter the first issued in March by Ernst & Young and the second in April by Smith & Williamson. The Ernst & Young report states that "citizenship is a concept distinct from tax residency. Citizenship should not give rise to tax avoidance and evasion opportunities, as the reporting rules are explicit in not using citizenship as a test." Similarly, the Smith & Williamson report concludes that "citizenship by investment does not present a risk to facilitating tax evasion, as citizenship alone is insufficient to secure tax residency of a country." In his opinion, Mr Bhatia welcomed both reports, noting their conclusions to be "sound" and "valuable and opportune given the criticism levied against CBI states by entities that erroneously associate CBI with tax residency and tax evasion." Mr Bhatia was likely referring to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the European Union, which he cites earlier in his paper as criticising Dominica and St Kitts and Nevis' CBI programmes for presenting opportunities to evade tax liability. Mr Bhatia himself finds that "the CBI Programmes of Dominica and St Kitts and Nevis do not in and of themselves confer the status of tax resident" and that "generally speaking, taxation authorities look to 'tax residency' as the better way of determining whether an individual has tax liabilities in that country not citizenship." With respect to the tax reporting and international efforts at sharing information, he notes that "it is not enough for a person to become a citizen of Dominica or St Kitts and Nevis for that to qualify him as a tax resident of Dominica or St Kitts and Nevis for purposes of the CRS." For this reason, like the Smith & Williamson and Ernst & Young reports, Mr Bhatia subscribes to the opinion that CBI programmes neither undermine tax regimes nor put at risk tax revenues. Mr Bhatia's opinion takes a clear stance on CBI, particularly as it relates to Dominica and St Kitts and Nevis two countries where CBI has formed part of the nation's legislative history for decades. It condemns as "unjustified" the characterisation of CBI programmes as elaborate tax evasion schemes, and instead highlights the benefits that CBI brings to applicants and nations alike giving food for thought to influencers who would have countries phase out their CBI programmes despite their overall positive impact. The full opinion issued by Mr Bhatia is available here. Contact: [email protected] Related Links: www.cbiindex.com SOURCE CBI Index Related Links http://www.cbiindex.com CALGARY, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Enbridge Inc. (TSX: ENB) (NYSE: ENB) (Enbridge or the Company) held its Annual Meeting of Shareholders today. On a vote by ballot during the regular business proceedings at the Meeting, shareholders approved the election of all 11 nominated directors proposed by management as listed in the Proxy Statement dated March 4, 2019. The candidacy of Michael Phelps was withdrawn due to his passing on April 20, 2019. The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors are set out below. Votes For Votes Withheld # % # % Pamela L. Carter 989,827,674 93.80 65,417,105 6.20 Marcel R. Coutu 927,127,374 87.86 128,117,406 12.14 Susan M. Cunningham 1,019,121,651 96.58 36,123,029 3.42 Gregory L. Ebel 934,784,290 88.58 120,460,460 11.42 J. Herb England 1,021,936,848 96.84 33,307,932 3.16 Charles W. Fischer 1,042,684,312 98.81 12,560,467 1.19 V. Maureen Kempston Darkes 1,017,852,119 96.46 37,392,657 3.54 Teresa S. Madden 1,044,466,466 98.98 10,778,312 1.02 Al Monaco 1,043,169,386 98.86 12,075,395 1.14 Dan C. Tutcher 1,039,987,266 98.55 15,257,513 1.45 Catherine L. Williams 1,013,397,232 96.03 41,847,550 3.97 About Enbridge Inc. Enbridge Inc. is North America's premier energy infrastructure company with strategic business platforms that include an extensive network of crude oil, liquids and natural gas pipelines, regulated natural gas distribution utilities and renewable power generation. The Company safely delivers in excess of 3 million barrels of crude oil each day through its Mainline and Express Pipeline; accounts for approximately 62% of U.S.-bound Canadian crude oil exports; and moves approximately 18% of all natural gas consumed in the U.S., serving key supply basins and demand markets. The Company's regulated utilities serve approximately 3.7 million retail customers in Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick. Enbridge also has interests in more than 1,700 MW of net renewable generating capacity in North America and Europe. The Company's common shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges under the symbol ENB. Life takes energy and Enbridge exists to fuel people's quality of life. For more information, visit www.enbridge.com. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Media Jesse Semko Toll Free: (888) 992-0997 Email: [email protected] Investment Community Jonathan Gould Toll Free: (800) 481-2804 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Enbridge Inc. Related Links http://www.enbridge.com LAKEWOOD, CO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU; TSX: EFR) ("Energy Fuels" or the "Company") today reported its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. The Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and may be viewed on the Electronic Document Gathering and Retrieval System ("EDGAR") at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml, on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ("SEDAR") at www.sedar.com, and on the Company's website at www.energyfuels.com. Unless noted otherwise, all dollar amounts are in U.S. dollars. Highlights: At March 31, 2019 , the Company had $47.3 million of working capital, including $15.3 million in cash, $17.5 million in marketable securities, 470,000 pounds of finished uranium goods inventory, and 270,000 pounds of finished vanadium goods inventory. , the Company had of working capital, including in cash, in marketable securities, 470,000 pounds of finished uranium goods inventory, and 270,000 pounds of finished vanadium goods inventory. The Company successfully achieved commercial rates of vanadium production at the Company's White Mesa Mill (the " Mill "), producing the highest purity vanadium in the Mill's history. Vanadium production totaled 325,000 pounds of V 2 O 5 for the quarter, and the Company expects to continue to produce 160,000 to 200,000 pounds of V 2 O 5 per month over a 16-20 month period, subject to continued successful recovery and suitable sales prices. "), producing the highest purity vanadium in the Mill's history. Vanadium production totaled 325,000 pounds of V O for the quarter, and the Company expects to continue to produce 160,000 to 200,000 pounds of V O per month over a 16-20 month period, subject to continued successful recovery and suitable sales prices. Uranium production totaled 20,000 pounds of U 3 O 8 during the quarter. O during the quarter. The Company completed no uranium sales during the quarter and continues to add to uranium inventories. The Company believes that uranium prices will improve and that it may be able to sell inventory at higher prices in the future. The Company completed 53,000 pounds of vanadium sales into the steel industry during the quarter, following conversion of the Company's V 2 O 5 product into ferrovanadium. The Company is continuing to convert V 2 O 5 into ferrovanadium, while also evaluating the sale of certain quantities of high-purity V 2 O 5 into specialty aerospace, chemical, and potentially the vanadium battery industries. O product into ferrovanadium. The Company is continuing to convert V O into ferrovanadium, while also evaluating the sale of certain quantities of high-purity V O into specialty aerospace, chemical, and potentially the vanadium battery industries. The Company continued a limited conventional vanadium test-mining program at its La Sal Complex. As of March 31, 2019 , the Company had mined approximately 6,000 tons of mineralized material with an average grade of 1.44% V 2 O 5 and 0.17% U 3 O 8 . While these numbers are not intended to represent the basis of a new resource estimate, the Company believes that the new mining methods that were tested are likely to result in reduced costs, higher grades, and higher value for mined material due to significantly improved grade control at the mine site. The Company completed test mining in April 2019 and plans to continue further operational readiness activities at the La Sal Complex based on these encouraging results. , the Company had mined approximately 6,000 tons of mineralized material with an average grade of 1.44% V O and 0.17% U O . While these numbers are not intended to represent the basis of a new resource estimate, the Company believes that the new mining methods that were tested are likely to result in reduced costs, higher grades, and higher value for mined material due to significantly improved grade control at the mine site. The Company completed test mining in and plans to continue further operational readiness activities at the La Sal Complex based on these encouraging results. Pursuant to Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 (as amended), on April 14, 2019 , the U.S. Department of Commerce ("DOC") completed its investigation into the effects of uranium imports on U.S. national security (the "Section 232 Investigation") and submitted a report to the President of the United States containing their findings and proposed remedy (if any). The Company is seeking a remedy which would set a quota limiting imports of uranium into the U.S., effectively reserving 25% of the U.S. nuclear market for U.S. uranium production. If granted, the quota would be expected to strengthen uranium prices available to U.S. producers, thereby reviving an industry crucial to America's national security and the generation of clean, carbon-free nuclear energy. Mark S. Chalmers, Energy Fuels' President and CEO stated: "Energy Fuels continued to make important progress on a number of value-building initiatives in the first quarter of this year. "Some of our most noteworthy achievements have resulted from our continued support of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Section 232 investigation into U.S. uranium imports. On April 14, 2019, our efforts resulted in an important milestone. On that date, the DOC submitted a report to the White House containing the results of its investigation, along with proposed recommendations. President Trump now has up to 90 days from April 14, 2019 to decide whether and how to act on DOC's recommendations. As the report has not been made public, the Company has not seen the report. However, we believe the facts are crystal clear. Increasing levels of uranium and nuclear fuel imports into the U.S. from our geopolitical rivals represent a real threat to U.S. national security and energy security. We are proud to be one of the voices urging the President to act decisively to protect America on this key issue, and we will continue to support this initiative in the months ahead. "While we await the President's decision on the Section 232 investigation, one of our other key initiatives involves vanadium production, where we have made enormous strides to re-establish the Company as the only primary producer of vanadium in North America. In 2018, when vanadium prices began to rise over the $10 per pound threshold, we began evaluating the short-term recovery of dissolved vanadium from the pond solutions at our White Mesa Mill, a source of solubilized vanadium inventory we had never previously attempted to recover. Through the innovation, hard work, and dedication of our skilled milling professionals, we entered production toward the end of 2018 and began making sales in February 2019. We are actively producing significant quantities of the highest-purity vanadium in the Mill's history. Perhaps more importantly, since we have developed an effective processing methodology, we now have the ability to quickly and inexpensively adjust production in response to evolving market conditions. We are closely tracking market conditions, particularly in China where significant quantities of vanadium are produced and consumed. Prices currently sit at approximately $9.10 per pound and, if they remain at current levels or decline for any extended period of time, we may temporarily halt vanadium production in order to save this valuable inventory for higher future prices. Regardless of what happens to markets, we have created the potential to rapidly generate significant cash flows during periods of elevated vanadium prices. "We also believe we have created significant shareholder value through the test-mining program at our La Sal Complex. As we have previously reported, under this program we analyzed mining methods and technologies never before utilized in the uranium/vanadium mines of the Colorado Plateau. Our results are extremely encouraging, potentially changing the paradigm for mining these deposits by significantly improving grade control. If successful, this would reduce mining, milling and trucking costs, and potentially improve Mill recovery for vanadium since the higher the vanadium grade fed into the Mill, the higher the percentage of vanadium recovered. "In short, we believe we are clearly demonstrating that Energy Fuels is not just another uranium company waiting for prices to recover. We are committed to realizing value and leveraging our assets wherever we can. We look forward to providing further updates on our progress in the months ahead." Selected Summary Financial Information: $000, except per share data Three months ended March 31, 2019 Three months ended March 31, 2018 Results of Operations: Total revenues $ 1,670 $ 1,254 Operating loss (10,122) (10,400) Net loss attributable to the company (12,127) (10,822) Basic and diluted loss per share (0.13) (0.14) $000's As at March 31, 2019 As at December 31, 2018 Financial Position: Working capital $ 47,256 $ 52,000 Property, plant and equipment 29,017 29,843 Mineral properties 83,539 83,539 Total assets 190,341 196,766 Total long-term liabilities 47,306 43,059 Outlook Overview Operations and Sales Outlook Overview The Company plans to extract and/or recover uranium from its Nichols Ranch Project in 2019. In addition, during 2019 the Company expects to extract and/or recover vanadium, and potentially uranium, from pond solutions at its White Mesa Mill, subject to continued successful recovery and suitable sales prices. As a result of improved vanadium market conditions in 2018, the Company began its current campaign in early 2019 to recover between two and a half (2.5) and four (4) million pounds of vanadium from existing pond solutions at the White Mesa Mill, which result from past mineral processing campaigns, over the 16 to 20 month expected life of the program. Extraction and Recovery Activities Overview During the quarter ended March 31, 2019, the Company recovered approximately 20,000 pounds of U 3 O 8 . In the year ending December 31, 2019, the Company expects to recover approximately 50,000 to 125,000 pounds of U 3 O 8 . The Company also recovered 325,000 pounds of high-purity vanadium pentoxide ("V 2 O 5 " or "black flake"), during the quarter ended March 31, 2019, and expects to continue to recover approximately 160,000-200,000 pounds of V 2 O 5 per month over the life of the program, subject to continued successful recovery and depending on the availability of suitable sales prices. The Company has entered into no uranium sales commitments for 2019 thus far. Therefore, all 2019 uranium production is expected to be added to existing inventories. All V 2 O 5 production is expected to be sold on the spot market or maintained in inventory. Both ISR and conventional uranium extraction and/or recovery are expected to continue to be maintained at reduced levels until such time as improvements in uranium market conditions are observed or suitable sales contracts can be procured. Continued vanadium production will depend on the continued availability of suitable vanadium spot prices. ISR Activities During the quarter ended March 31, 2019, we extracted and recovered approximately 20,000 pounds of U 3 O 8 from the Nichols Ranch Project. In the year ending December 31, 2019, the Company expects to produce approximately 50,000-70,000 pounds of U 3 O 8 from Nichols Ranch. At March 31, 2019, the Nichols Ranch wellfields had nine header houses extracting uranium. Until such time as improvement in uranium market conditions is observed or suitable sales contracts can be procured, the Company intends to defer development of further header houses at its Nichols Ranch Project. The Company currently holds 34 fully-permitted, undeveloped wellfields at Nichols Ranch, including four additional wellfields at the Nichols Ranch wellfields, 22 wellfields at the adjacent Jane Dough wellfields, and eight wellfields at the Hank Project, which is fully permitted to be constructed as a satellite facility to the Nichols Ranch Plant. The Company expects to continue to keep the Alta Mesa ISR Project on standby until such time as improvements in uranium market conditions are observed or suitable sales contracts can be procured. Conventional Activities Conventional Extraction and Recovery Activities During the quarter ended March 31, 2019, the White Mesa Mill recovered no uranium due to the its focus on vanadium recovery. During the quarter, the Company produced 325,000 pounds of high-purity V 2 O 5 from its Mill pond return program. The Company is currently producing at full-production rates of 160,000 to 200,000 pounds of V 2 O 5 per month. The Company expects to continue to recover V 2 O 5 at these rates throughout 2019, subject to continued successful recovery and depending on the availability of suitable sales prices. If vanadium prices remain at current levels or decline, the Company may curtail or stop vanadium production during the year, pending improvements in vanadium prices. One of the benefits of the Mill's vanadium pond return program is that it can be stopped and restarted relatively quickly in response to changes in vanadium market conditions. In addition, the Company is evaluating whether uranium can be extracted, concurrent with its vanadium recovery, from the pond solutions. If the Company determines such recovery is possible, it expects that up to approximately 55,000 pounds of U 3 O 8 could potentially be recovered at the White Mesa Mill in 2019 from those activities. The Company currently expects that planned vanadium and other processing activities will keep the Mill in operation through the end of 2019 and into 2020. The Company is also actively pursuing opportunities to process new and additional alternate feed sources and low-grade ore from third parties in connection with various uranium clean-up requirements. In addition, if improvements in uranium market conditions are observed as a result of the Section 232 Investigation or otherwise, the Company would expect to be able to procure suitable long-term sales contracts to keep the Mill operating over a considerably longer period of time. Conventional Standby, Permitting and Evaluation Activities During the quarter ended March 31, 2019, the Company continued its test-mining program targeting vanadium at the fully-permitted La Sal Complex located on the Colorado Plateau, which it completed in April 2019, in addition to pursuing enhanced operational readiness targeting future commercial production. The goal of the program was to evaluate different mining approaches that selectively target high-grade vanadium zones, thereby potentially increasing productivity and mined grades for vanadium and decreasing mining costs per pound of V 2 O 5 and U 3 O 8 . During this program, the Company refurbished the La Sal and Pandora mines within the La Sal Complex and extracted approximately 6,000 tons of mineralized material. The Company expects to continue readiness activities throughout 2019. In addition, the Company expects to complete a surface and underground drilling program at the La Sal Complex by mid-2019 in order to potentially expand the known uranium and/or vanadium resources available to mine. Sales During the quarter ended March 31, 2019, the Company completed no uranium sales. The Company currently has no remaining contracts and is therefore fully unhedged to future uranium price increases. The Company continued V 2 O 5 shipments during the quarter ended March 31, 2019 with initial quantities being allocated for conversion to ferrovanadium ("FeV"), which is currently being sold into spot metallurgical markets. During the quarter, the Company completed sales of 53,000 pounds of vanadium at an average price of $20.40 per pound. The Company expects to continue to sell finished vanadium product as it is produced into the metallurgical industry, as well as other markets that demand a higher purity product, including the aerospace, chemical and potentially the vanadium battery industries. The Company expects to sell to a diverse group of customers in order to maximize revenues and profits. The Company is continuing to produce a high-purity vanadium product of 99.6%-99.7% V 2 O 5 . The Company believes there may be opportunities to sell certain quantities of this high-purity material at a premium to reported spot prices. The Company may also retain vanadium product in inventory for future sale, depending on vanadium spot prices at the time of production. The Company also continues to pursue new sources of revenue, including additional alternate feed materials and other sources of feed, for the White Mesa Mill. Trade Petition In January 2018, the Company participated in the joint filing of a Petition for Relief under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 (as amended) from Imports of Uranium Products that Threaten National Security (the "Petition"). On April 14, 2019, the DOC completed the Section 232 Investigation and submitted a report to the President of the United States containing their findings and proposed remedy (if any). From April 14, 2019, the President has 90 days to act on the DOC's recommendations and, if necessary, take action to adjust imports or pursue other lawful, non-trade-related actions to address the national security threat. The Petition describes how uranium and nuclear fuel from state-owned and state-subsidized enterprises in Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and China potentially represent a threat to U.S. national security. The Petition seeks a remedy which would set a quota to limit imports of uranium into the U.S., effectively reserving 25% of the U.S. nuclear market for U.S. uranium production. Additionally, the Petition suggests implementation of a requirement for U.S. federal utilities and agencies to buy U.S. uranium in accordance with the President's Buy American Policy. The remedies, if granted, would be expected to strengthen the U.S. uranium mining industry, bolster national defense, and improve supply diversification for U.S. utilities and their customers. The Company intends to continue its support of this action during 2019. It should be noted, however, that there can be no certainty of the outcome of the Section 232 Investigation and, therefore, the outcome of this process is uncertain. About Energy Fuels: Energy Fuels is a leading U.S.-based uranium mining company, supplying U 3 O 8 to major nuclear utilities. The Company also produces vanadium from certain of its projects, as market conditions warrant. Its corporate offices are in Lakewood, Colorado near Denver, and all of its assets and employees are in the United States. Energy Fuels holds three of America's key uranium production centers: the White Mesa Mill in Utah, the Nichols Ranch in-situ recovery ("ISR") Project in Wyoming, and the Alta Mesa ISR Project in Texas. The White Mesa Mill is the only conventional uranium mill operating in the U.S. today, has a licensed capacity of over 8 million pounds of U 3 O 8 per year, and has the ability to produce vanadium when market conditions warrant. The Nichols Ranch ISR Project is in operation and has a licensed capacity of 2 million pounds of U 3 O 8 per year. The Alta Mesa ISR Project is currently on standby. In addition to the above production facilities, Energy Fuels also has one of the largest NI 43-101 compliant uranium resource portfolios in the U.S. and several uranium and uranium/vanadium mining projects on standby and in various stages of permitting and development. The primary trading market for Energy Fuels' common shares is the NYSE American under the trading symbol "UUUU," and the Company's common shares are also listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "EFR." Energy Fuels' website is www.energyfuels.com. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains certain "Forward Looking Information" and "Forward Looking Statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: production and sales forecasts; costs of production; scalability, and the Company's ability and readiness to re-start or expand any of its existing projects to respond to any improvements in uranium market conditions; any expectations regarding vanadium opportunities, the Company's program for the recovery of vanadium from pond solutions, or the Company's ability to sell any of its vanadium product at a premium to spot prices or otherwise; the ability to quickly and inexpensively adjust vanadium production in response to evolving market conditions; the ability to generate cash flows during periods of elevated vanadium prices; the expected results from the vanadium test-mining program; the ability of the Company to secure any new sources of alternate feed materials or other processing opportunities at the White Mesa Mill; expected timelines for the permitting and development of projects; the Company's expectations as to longer term fundamentals in the market and price projections; expectations to become or maintain its position as a leading uranium company in the United States; any threats to national security and energy security; and the outcome of the Department of Commerce Section 232 investigation, including the nature of the Secretary of Commerce's recommendation to the President of the United States; whether or not the President will act on the recommendation and, if so, the nature of the action and remedy; and the expected benefits of the proposed remedies. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans," "expects," "does not expect," "is expected," "is likely," "budgets," "scheduled," "estimates," "forecasts," "intends," "anticipates," "does not anticipate," or "believes," or variations of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might" or "will be taken," "occur," "be achieved" or "have the potential to." All statements, other than statements of historical fact, herein are considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements express or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include risks associated with: production and sales forecasts; costs of production; scalability, and the Company's ability and readiness to re-start or expand any of its existing projects to respond to any improvements in uranium market conditions; any expectations regarding vanadium opportunities, the Company's program for the recovery of vanadium from pond solutions, or the Company's ability to sell any of its vanadium product at a premium to spot prices or otherwise; the ability to quickly and inexpensively adjust vanadium production in response to evolving market conditions; the ability to generate cash flows during periods of elevated vanadium prices; the expected results from the vanadium test-mining program; the ability of the Company to secure any new sources of alternate feed materials or other processing opportunities at the White Mesa Mill; expected timelines for the permitting and development of projects; the Company's expectations as to longer term fundamentals in the market and price projections; expectations to become or maintain its position as a leading uranium company in the United States; any threats to national security and energy security; and the outcome of the Department of Commerce Section 232 investigation, including the nature of the Secretary of Commerce's recommendation to the President of the United States; whether or not the President will act on the recommendation and, if so, the nature of the action and remedy; the expected benefits of the proposed remedies; and the other factors described under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is available for review on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and on the Company's website at www.energyfuels.com. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. 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, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to update the information in this communication, except as otherwise required by law. SOURCE Energy Fuels Inc. Related Links http://www.energyfuels.com ROCKVILLE, Maryland, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Fact.MR has introduced a new study to its active online portal that diligently foresees capable growth prospects in the global cool roof coating market. The contributions by leading players, especially across Asia Pacific and Europe is reasonable enough to indorse higher revenue shares in the target market during the forecast period. In order to gain in-depth knowledge about additional possibilities in the cool roof coatings market, readers can refer the research study titled "Cool Roof Coating Market Forecast, Trend Analysis & Competition Tracking - Global Market Insights 2018 to 2027". Based on this assessment, it has been highlighted the cool roof coating market is projected to deliver an impressive CAGR of over 6% during the period between 2018 and 2028. Some of the chief reasons for this swelling market of cool roof coatings can be attributed to its effective remedial behavior to urbanization challenges, blazing temperatures across tropical and subtropical regions and elevating energy demand. This is a rigorous and scrutinized report that comprises of actionable and prized insights. Not only are the readers served with in-depth assessment on the cool roof coatings market but are also given access to surmise important dynamics such as growth drivers, trends, restraints and opportunities associated to the cool roof coating market. Furthermore, this study attentively discourse key segments, namely, roof type, material, application, technology and region. Each of these segments are examined in terms of crucial market factors such as revenue (US$ Mn), market share comparison and Y-o-Y growth. Request For Sample Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=S&rep_id=2364 Elastomeric Plastic Upholds Its Supremacy in the Cool Roof Coating Market It has been noticed that elastomeric plastic has habitually retained its leading position among roofing materials in the cool roof coating market. To be specific, over 6 in 10 MT of cool roof coatings look for these roofing materials. Interestingly, the global sales for elastomeric plastic surpassed 400,000 MT in 2018. In comparison to its counterparts, such as metals and tiles, supremacy of elastomeric plastic is expected to continue in the coming years. Relevance of Cool Roof Coatings in Urban Pliability Climate change has become highly visible, and investments towards sustainable technologies have risen at the global level to improve resilience of cities. Therefore, the application of cool roof coating to supplement a building structure's environmental performance together with solar panel installations continue to receive higher traction among major cities around the globe. Browse Full Report on Cool Roof Coating Market with In-depth TOC- https://www.factmr.com/report/2364/cool-roof-coating-market In addition, cool roof coating has gained chief importance as a key solution for reducing urban heat island effect, mend air quality and combat climate change. Some of the prime benefits of cool roof coating includes reduction in peak burden on electric grids and heightened community resilience to high temperatures. Competitive Scenario Presently, the cool roof coating market is mainly characterized by the attendance of multinational companies that have robust distribution channels together with higher brand visibility. According to this research study, the major players from the cool roof coating market collectively acquire more than one-fourth share in the global sector. It is vital to mark that, regional players like and Nippon Paint Holdings Co. Ltd. and GAF Materials Corporation, have proven their presence across emerging markets like Asia-Pacific, since the region delivers significant covert opportunities for the concerned sector. China surfaces to the top to become the most lucrative country in terms of sales of cool roof coatings; global sales from this region were recorded at 220,000 MT in 2018. Request Methodology of this Report- https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=RM&rep_id=2364 Popular Chemical Industry Reports from Fact.MR Construction Lubricants Market- The construction lubricants market reflected moderate growth at a CAGR of over 3% during 2013-2017. The growing demand for construction lubricants can be attributed to the resurgence in construction activities and infrastructure development projects in emerging economies. Agricultural Films Market- South Asia is estimated to emerge as a high growth region for the agricultural films market with the presence of numerous agriculture-dependent countries in the region. Additionally, increasing government investments into boosting agricultural production is expected to significantly favor growth of the agricultural films industry. Conformal Coatings Market for PCBS- According to the latest report by Fact.MR, the conformal coatings market for PCBs reached the valuation of US$ 8,871 million in 2017, and is expected to register 5.6% CAGR during 2018-2026. About Fact.MR Fact.MR is a fast-growing market research firm that offers the most comprehensive suite of syndicated and customized market research reports. We believe transformative intelligence can educate and inspire businesses to make smarter decisions. We know the limitations of the one-size-fits-all approach; that's why we publish multi-industry global, regional, and country-specific research reports. Contact Us: Rohit Bhisey Fact.MR 11140 Rockville Pike Suite 400 Rockville, MD 20852 United States Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.factmr.com/ SOURCE Fact.MR INDIANAPOLIS, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Postal Service has recognized FCA US, Tracfone Wireless, Inc. and AT&T with the Informed Innovation Award for their creative efforts using USPS technology. The USPS Informed Innovation recognizes companies that have created an Informed Delivery campaign. Each company has leveraged the new technology to drive growth and proved that mail combined with digital is a winning formula. FCA US, LLC designs, manufactures, and sells or distributes vehicles under the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT and Alfa Romeo brands, as well as the SRT performance designation. FCA US mails notifications to vehicle owners with open safety recalls. FCA US is the first automotive Original Equipment Manufacturer to incorporate the USPS Informed Delivery feature. Informed Delivery enables FCA US to reach customers in a unique manner, making them aware of any safety recall affecting their vehicle, as well as urging them to remedy their vehicle safety recall. By using the link on the embedded image within Informed Delivery, the customer is directed to the mopar.recalls.com website where they can enter their Vehicle Identification Number and find a dealer to schedule repairs. TracFone Wireless, Inc. is a prepaid mobile virtual network operator in the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands., and offers products and services under several other brands. TracFone incorporated Informed Delivery in a direct mail campaign supporting its holiday promotions with its brands (TracFone, Straight Talker, and SafeLink). The Informed Delivery campaign outperformed the email counterpart of the promotion with higher open and click rate percentages. AT&T has a long history of collaborating with USPS on various innovations, both as a customer and a supplier. Currently, more than 30 million AT&T mailpieces each month carry an Informed Delivery campaign and URL message. As a way to help drive greater customer engagement, AT&T partnered with USPS to create the communication needed for companies to share Informed Delivery with its own employees. AT&T then encouraged its own employees to sign up for Informed Delivery offering the story to more than 240,000 employees on the companies' intranet. The awards were presented today during the 2019 National Postal Forum in Indianapolis. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. Please Note: For U.S. Postal Service media resources, including broadcast quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel, like us on Facebook and enjoy our Postal Posts blog. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com. Contact: Sara Martin 202-268-8386 [email protected] usps.com/news SOURCE U.S. Postal Service Related Links http://www.usps.com NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Female country artist and businesswoman Rae Solomon has filed a lawsuit against Live Nation, alleging the event-promotion company stole her idea for an all-female concert series that it's now using for its own music festival in Chicago scheduled for this June. Solomon's lawsuit, filed in the Davidson County, TN circuit court, claims that Live Nation executives intentionally misrepresented their continued interest in her festival during months-long negotiations so that they could create, organize, and promote their own version of the festival. The CEO of Nashville-based East Hallows LLC is seeking compensatory damages, attorney's fees and related costs estimated to total approximately $25 million, and additional unspecified punitive damages. Solomon first engaged with Live Nation in May 2018 when she applied to the company's Women Nation Fund, which the promotion company created as an incubator to develop and finance female-owned concert tours and other live-event businesses. Solomon presented her completed business plan for an all-female country festival in Chicago called Zenitheve which included an artist lineup, timeline, booked vendors, and potential sponsors to Live Nation, whose executives initially lauded her project. After a series of phone conversations and email exchanges in which the executives expressed support and requested details, they abruptly cut off discussion with her in October 2018. A month later, Live Nation announced the launch of the Chicago-based LakeShake festival, which features an artist lineup on its premier day nearly identical to Solomon's. "When a powerful corporation like Live Nation announces a fund to support women in business and actually tells you they want to invest in your business, it's nothing short of a dream come true," said Solomon. "I never imagined that they would turn around and steal my business plan for their own gain. They claim to be celebrating female artists in country music, but they're doing so by taking another woman down." On several occasions, Live Nation Senior Vice President Michael Wischer told Solomon his company had an interest in partnering with her to produce Zenitheve and that the program was "right down the center of the fairway for what we're trying to do." "It's too coincidental that Live Nation could come up with the same idea, including the same artists and in the same city just six weeks after our launch date," says Solomon. "They announced their concert after speaking with me over a period of months and stringing me along as though they were going to co-produce this with me." Solomon, whose goal hasn't changed, says, "I still want to put on this tour. The whole point of Zenitheve is to celebrate female artists and stand together against discrimination in the music industry. What I'd like to see happen is for Live Nation to do what's right and to also recognize me as a rightful partner on the concert they announced based on my idea and hard work." Other victims who have been taken advantage of by Live Nation can contact Solomon's attorney, Douglas Johnston Jr. at [email protected]. For media inquiries or an interview with Rae Solomon, contact Gene Grabowski at 202-270-6560 or [email protected]. About Rae Solomon Rae Solomon is a Nashville-based recording artist, songwriter and entrepreneur. Originally from Seattle, Washington, she earned her Degree in Music Business from the Berklee College of Music. Solomon recorded her first EP in late 2017 in Nashville. Solomon's first single from the project "Love Is Stupid", was released on April 2018. Contact: Gene Grabowski Phone: 202-270-6560 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Rae Solomon Funding to rapidly grow its product, technology and people capabilities Seeking to make investments into Asia -based technology innovators -based technology innovators Expanding the platform to search, match and transact consumer financial services SINGAPORE, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Asian financial supermarket GoBear has announced US$80 million in funding to date. GoBear will use the funds to drive growth through product and technology enhancements, expand its partner network, and fill key roles. Improvements to the platform's search and match functionality will also include two strategic approaches: partnerships with, and investments into other technology companies, to acquire access to additional key technology. This funding was furnished by Walvis Participaties, a Dutch venture capital fund, and Aegon N.V, a leading financial services provider. GoBear is a financial supermarket whose purpose is to improve Asia's financial health by making financial literacy, financial inclusion, and financial security attainable for everyone. GoBear has served more than 40 million users across Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. GoBear's partners are leading financial institutions, banks and insurance providers, including Allianz Worldwide Partners, Citibank, FWD Insurance and Standard Chartered Bank. Adrian Chng, CEO of GoBear said: "Our latest round of funding will be invested in our priority areas of product, technology, senior management and technical talent. We are also very interested in partnering with and/or investing in other technology companies who have developed exciting new technologies that will enhance our ecosystem and our ability to improve people's financial health. Specific areas include customer onboarding and fulfilment solutions, personal financial management, alternative credit scoring, financial education, and investment platforms". Opportunities in the region are being driven by several large, interconnected developments: world-beating economic growth, rapid urbanisation, a fast-growing middle class and mobile everywhere; the region's digital economy alone is projected to reach S$270 billion by 2025[1]. At the same time, many consumer products and services remain ill-suited to this mobile generation, and cash transactions are the norm. The prevalence of a cash-based economy limits consumers' financial access, because without a personal financial profile financial institutions cannot assess and price customers' risk and evaluate product suitability. GoBear is excited by the opportunity to create the infrastructure and ecosystem to improve financial health for hundreds of millions of customers across Asia. It will utilise its product, technology and data capabilities as key enablers in assessing and pricing risk, which will help partners better understand consumer preferences based on digital personas and journeys. It is also on these journeys that consumers undergo a more efficient and superior digital experience whilst being matched to the most relevant products for their needs. [1] Driving digital into the heart of Asia's financial services industry, Ernst & Young, 2018 About GoBear GoBear is Asia's leading financial supermarket whose purpose is to improve your financial health. GoBear empowers consumers with the know-how, tools, and financial products to meet their needs. We believe financial health leads to secure, stable, and sustainable communities across Asia, which is why we make it our mission to improve your financial health by making financial literacy, financial inclusion, and financial security attainable for everyone. Our financial supermarket is rapidly growing its capabilities, product offerings, and customer base. We're a fintech leader that's bringing innovative solutions to address important local market challenges. Our data and insights mean we can build better products, better assess and price risk, work with partners to improve access to financial products, and identify consumer knowledge gaps. Having commenced in Singapore since early 2015, we're now in 7 countries: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. To date, we have served over 40 million users searching for more than 1,800 personal finance products. SOURCE GoBear By Washington Examiner, May 06, 2019 A woman was arrested this week after trying four separate times to sneak into the Central Intelligence Agency headquarters in northern Virginia to speak to "Agent Penis." The criminal complaint described the May 3 incident involving Jennifer G. Hernandez, 58, from North Carolina: "Upon arrival, the defendant provided her Iowa identification card, requested to recover her North Carolina identification card, and requested to speak to Agent Penis." LAS VEGAS, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- FinancialForce, the #1 Enterprise Professional Services Automation (PSA) and customer-centric ERP cloud solution, announced that the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), a nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related neuromuscular diseases, has seen tremendous gains in their fundraising efforts since implementing FinancialForce ERP. The FinancialForce ERP platform has allowed MDA to centralize their procurement efforts for fundraising and other events related to the core mission, while also streamlining the processing of payables and critical accounting transactions. The ERP suite enables MDA to shift the majority of its back-office efforts from multiple stages of processing in various systems into a single efficient stream as a transaction moves through FinancialForce. Since deploying the FinancialForce platform, MDA has successfully realigned administrative work from fundraising and associated teams, freeing up 40% of their time to focus on more strategic activities. Finance, IT and Operations teams now have the flexibility to focus on new ways to deliver services faster, smarter and cheaper. "Muscular Dystrophy Association had a unique opportunity to use FinancialForce ERP to reengineer the front office capture process and centralize, procurement, payables and accounting in our new Chicago Service Center," said Michael Kennedy, CFO, MDA. "The centralization of transaction processing has saved significant costs, and the centralization of performance data capture has given us new insights into optimizing fundraising and other efforts related to our core mission." About FinancialForce FinancialForce delivers the #1 professional services automation (PSA) and the only customer-centric ERP. We accelerate business value with comprehensive best practices and the most intelligent analytics -- all on the leading business cloud platform from Salesforce. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in San Francisco, FinancialForce is backed by Advent International, Salesforce Ventures, and Technology Crossover Ventures. For more information, visit www.financialforce.com. About Muscular Dystrophy Association Muscular Dystrophy Association is committed to transforming the lives of people affected by muscular dystrophy, ALS and related neuromuscular diseases. We do this through innovations in science and innovations in care. As the largest source of funding for neuromuscular disease research outside of the federal government, MDA has committed more than $1 billion since our inception to accelerate the discovery of therapies and cures. Research we have supported is directly linked to life-changing therapies across multiple neuromuscular diseases. MDA's MOVR is the first and only data hub that aggregates clinical, genetic and patient reported data for multiple neuromuscular diseases to improve health outcomes and accelerate drug development. MDA supports the largest network of multidisciplinary clinics providing best in class care at more than 150 of the nation's top medical institutions. Our Resource Center serves the community with one-on-one specialized support, and we offer educational conferences, events, and materials for families and healthcare providers. Each year thousands of children and young adults learn vital life skills and gain independence at summer camp and through recreational programs, at no cost to families. For more information visit mda.org. Trademarks FinancialForce and FinancialForce.com are registered trademarks. Any third-party brands or names referenced in this document may be trademarks of their respective owners. Salesforce and other brands are among the trademarks of salesforce.com, inc. Media Contacts: Letty Ledbetter FinancialForce [email protected] Dean Fisk Finn Partners [email protected] SOURCE FinancialForce Related Links http://www.financialforce.com MADRID, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- A decrease in turnover in the United States , caused by a series of temporary events, stalled the group's sales growth at 313 million Fluidra benefits from its global presence with the European market continuing to show strong momentum with some examples of double-digit growth Fluidra expects to meet cost savings goal set as a result of the merger with Zodiac, after successfully completing the integration process in Spain , Portugal and Italy United States' recovery beginning well in April and Europe maintaining its positive tendency, allow the Company to reaffirm its guidance for 2019 Fluidra reports first quarter results, with a net loss of 2.8 million, which reconciles to pro forma profit of 5.9 million by adding back all non-recurring expenses related to the integration, along with IFRS-16 accounting adjustment. Sales at Fluidra fell by 1.1% to 313.1 million in the first three months of the year, caused by a weak quarter in the United States. A series of temporary events were behind the decline, including weather, change of distribution ordering patterns and the transfer of a manufacturing plant from San Diego to Tijuana. Nevertheless, North America's fundamentals remain solid and the tide has begun to turn in April with double-digit growth in local turnover. The performance in Europe was positive, with a 9.7% rise (at constant perimeter) for southern European operations and an increase of approximately 13% (at constant exchange rate and perimeter) in the rest of the region. Meanwhile, the company's business in the Rest of the World continued with its stable growth, when removing the currency and perimeter effect, at 6.2%. Consequently, the global leader in the pool and wellness equipment business has been able to reaffirm its forecasts for 2019. In this regard, Fluidra expects to end 2019 with a turnover of between 1.35 billion and 1.4 billion, EBITDA1 of between 240 million and 260 million, and a net debt1 to EBITDA ratio of less than 2.6, compared with the 2018 figure of 3.2. "Despite the late start in North America, on the back of abnormally poor weather and other temporary events, we remain positive about the full year 2019. The strength of the other markets in our global platform - especially Europe - , the improved sales margin, and the good progress on integration keep us on track with 2019 guidance and our 2022 Strategic Plan," explained Eloi Planes, Executive Chairman of Fluidra. He also noted that this is a seasonal business in which isolated year on year quarterly comparisons are less applicable. Residential Pools: Key business unit The listed company's Residential Pool division continued to show the highest turnover, coming mainly from the recurrent business with the large number of installed swimming pools. Revenues in Residential Pool came to 215 million, in line with the figure registered the previous year. In fact, this business unit grew 1.1% when adjusting for change in perimeter, following Aquatron's divestiture. Turnover in the Commercial Pool division was 23.2 million for the period, a 3.2% increase compared to last year's first quarter sales. This marks the end of the challenging comparison to the previous year for this more predictable business unit, and the team is encouraged with a strong pipeline of new projects. Pool Fluid Handling had a very strong performance whereas Pool Water Treatment was in line with the figure registered the previous year. Successful integration processes in Spain, Italy and Portugal The quarter also witnessed some significant milestones following Fluidra's merger with US company Zodiac, with the conclusion of successful integration processes in Spain, Italy and Portugal. The run rate synergies of ~17m Euros have the company well poised to deliver the 19m savings committed by the end of 2019 and the team well on track to deliver the committed 35m Euros in savings from the Strategic Plan. About Fluidra Spanish-listed company Fluidra is a world leader in the pool and wellness equipment business, offering innovative products and services and IoT solutions. The company operates in more than 45 countries and its portfolio includes some of the industry's best known brands, including Jandy, AstralPool, Polaris, Cepex, Zodiac, CTX Professional, and Gre. For further information about Fluidra, please visit www.fluidra.com References: 1 Pre IFRS 16. SOURCE Fluidra Related Links http://www.fluidra.com Mr. Cardillo is one of the country's most recognized national security professionals and has held numerous leadership positions in his distinguished 35-years of service in the U.S. Intelligence Community (IC). Most recently he served as the sixth Director of the NGA from October 2014 until February 2019, where he led the Agency's efforts to modernize and grow its global geospatial intelligence mission. "Robert has had a distinguished career leading our nation's intelligence community. He was in the Situation Room and the Oval Office for many of the most consequential decisions of our time. He will be a highly valued advisor and colleague for the Beacon team," said former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Leon Panetta, who serves as Senior Counselor at Beacon Global Strategies. "We are fortunate to welcome Robert Cardillo to BGS' Board of Advisors," said Jeremy Bash, founder and Managing Director at Beacon. "Robert's leadership background and extensive experience related to intelligence and security matters will be of great value to our Board, our company, and our clients." Prior to serving as Director, from 2010 to 2014, Mr. Cardillo served as the first Deputy Director for Intelligence Integration at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, where he operationalized and implemented the DNI's vision to fully integrate the IC. In this position, Mr. Cardillo managed, edited and delivered over 1,400 President's Daily Briefs. In 2010, Mr. Cardillo served as the Deputy Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) where he managed a 20,000-person global enterprise to deliver intelligence advantages to the U.S. military. In addition, from 2006 to 2010, he served as the Deputy Director for Analysis at DIA where he oversaw the defense intelligence analytic community which spans the Armed Services and the Combatant Commands. In the summer of 2009, Mr. Cardillo served as the Acting Director for Intelligence (J2), a first for a civilian, in support of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Before he moved to DIA, Mr. Cardillo led Analysis and Production as well as Source Operations and Management at NGA from 2002-2006. Mr. Cardillo's senior leadership assignments at NGA also included Congressional Affairs, Public Affairs, and Corporate Relations. Mr. Cardillo began his career with DIA in 1983 as an imagery analyst. Mr. Cardillo earned a bachelor's degree in government from Cornell University and a master's degree in national security studies from Georgetown University. His awards include two Director of National Intelligence Distinguished Service Medals, the Department of Defense Distinguished Service Award, two Presidential Ranks of Distinguished Executive, the Presidential Rank of Meritorious Executive, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Joint Meritorious Civilian Service Award. Mr. Cardillo joins BGS Managing Directors Michael Allen, Former Staff Director of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence and former Senior Director at the National Security Council under President George W. Bush; Jeremy Bash, Former Chief of Staff to the Secretary of Defense and CIA Director; and Andrew Shapiro, Former Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs; BGS Senior Counselors Leon Panetta, Former Secretary of Defense and Former Director of the Central Intelligence Agency; and Michael Morell, Former Deputy Director of the CIA; as well as BGS Advisory Board Members Ambassador Eric Edelman, Former Undersecretary of Defense for Policy and Ambassador to Turkey; Deborah Lee James, Former Secretary of the United States Air Force; Marc Lampkin; Richard Ledgett, Former Deputy Director of the National Security Agency; David Shedd, Former Deputy Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency; Admiral James Stavridis, Former Supreme Allied Commander, Europe and Commander of U.S. Southern Command; Frances Townsend, Former Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism; Dr. Michael Vickers, Former Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence; and Admiral Sandy Winnefeld, Former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. About Beacon Global Strategies Founded in 2013, Beacon Global Strategies is a bipartisan strategic advisory firm that provides clients an in-depth understanding of national security decision-making to advance objectives and solve problems in Washington and abroad. The Beacon team brings experience informed by their years of service in the White House, State Department, Defense Department, CIA, Justice Department, on Capitol Hill, and in the private sector. SOURCE Beacon Global Strategies Related Links https://bgsdc.com Baraiolo specializes in Sales Engagement and Management, including fifteen years of experience selling enterprise software, infrastructure, and cloud-based solutions. Baraiolo's extensive knowledge and long-standing relationships within the Public Sector ecosystem are of strategic importance for MTX. The addition of Baraiolo has an immediate impact for MTX in serving labor, transportation, and health and human services agencies across the country where the company is already seen as a leading solutions provider. "Our leadership team is thrilled to have Mike join the MTX family. Mike brings a creative mind and extensive track record in serving the public sector. As business challenges evolve, we are eager to push forward our Maverick Artificial Intelligence Platform as a complementary solution in addition to all cloud technologies," said Das Nobel, CEO & Founder of MTX. Prior to joining MTX, Baraiolo was a leader as a Sales and Management Executive at Oracle, driving their growing businesses and sales across North America. Previously, he has worked at various tech giants such as Open Text and Banctec, before becoming a Salesforce enthusiast. "I'm excited to join MTX because of the leadership and vision of our CEO, Das Nobel. He has chosen a core of talented professionals, with rich and diverse skills and expertise to lead MTX. Culture is the most important thing at MTX and it fuels our client satisfaction and results. The MTX mission is quite simple, zero failed projects; and I believe we have the leadership team to make it happen," said Baraiolo. Will Sowell, Chief Operating Officer at MTX stated, "Mike's strong background and credibility allows him to make an immediate impact leading our public sector efforts both in expertise and service. Pairing his capability and extensive network with our proprietary, state of the art Permits & Licensing, Grants & Proposals, and Case Management applications will allow MTX to continue its hyper-growth." About MTX MTX Group Inc is a global cloud implementation partner that enables organizations to become a fit enterprise through digital transformation and strategy. MTX is powered by the Maverick.io Artificial Intelligence platform and has a strong presence in the Public Sector providing proprietary designs and innovative concept accelerators. SOURCE MTX Group Related Links www.mtxb2b.com BINGHAM FARMS, Mich., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- FOURMIDABLE, a diversified, national real estate management and brokerage company that specializes in managing rural development, public housing, tax credit and market rate communities, is excited to announce their emergence into the state of Florida. FOURMIDABLE has been awarded the management contract for Orangewood Lakes Apartments in New Port Richey, Florida. This marks FOURMIDABLE's first property in the state. Orangewood Lakes is a Rural Development community consisting of 68 one, two and three bedroom apartments ranging from 750 to 1,200 square feet. This smoke-free community offers a competitive amenity package including high speed internet access, a clubhouse, laundry facilities and a playground. FOURMIDABLE has over 40 years' experience managing affordable housing and maximizing assets for their clients. Their goal is to use this expertise to optimize management and provide quality housing for the residents at Orangewood Lakes. "FOURMIDABLE currently manages five communities in Michigan, Mississippi and Maryland for this ownership group and is pleased to continue our long standing relationship by managing one of their properties in Florida," said Sheldon Olson, Vice President of FOURMIDABLE. Other properties managed by FOURMIDABLE for this group include The Elms in Carthage, MS; The Grove in Walnut Grove, MS; Pine Knoll in Greenville, MI; Manchester Apartments in Manchester, MI; and Greensboro Apartments in Greensboro, MD. About FOURMIDABLE FOURMIDABLE is a national real estate management and brokerage company that specializes in managing, marketing and leasing market rate, tax credit, senior and family government assisted, public housing and rural development apartment communities. Founded in 1975, FOURMIDABLE currently manages 90 communities in 14 states, with approximately 8,800 units under management. FOURMIDABLE is a member of the elite AMO (Accredited Management Organization) and is an approved management firm for HUD, MSHDA and other State Agencies. Additionally, FOURMIDABLE affiliated companies offer support for property management companies and owners, including agility-pm, a provider of back office accounting, HR, IT and compliance support; eCrosstown, a provider of free Wi-Fi amenity services to apartment residents; and ePhonz, a specialized telephone product for apartment management companies. For more information, please call 248-593-4603 or visit www.fourmidable.com CONTACT: Michael Schocker, President 248-593-4634 Sue Voyles, Logos Communications 734-667-2005 SOURCE FOURMIDABLE Related Links http://www.fourmidable.com SUZHOU, China, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- GeneQuantum Healthcare announced that it has closed nearly RMB 100 million Pre-B round of financing. This financing was led by Huagai Capital, joined by Hofon Capital and Changjinboya. GeneQuantum Healthcare's A-round investor Oriza Seed and TF Capital continued for additional investments. The funds raised in this round are mainly used to promote the global clinical development of next generation of ADCs, as well as the rapid development and layout of a series of differentiated innovative technologies and products. GeneQuantum Healthcare focuses on the research and development of various innovative bioconjugate drugs via its innovative LDC technology and the international first-class iLDC platform. The company's iLDC platform utilizes an enzyme-catalyzed intelligent continuous conjugation process, which has successfully achieved pilot production for next generation of highly homogeneous ADCs with significantly improved quality and reduced costs. The platform process revolutionizes the existing chemical conjugation based production mode and can be widely applied to the automated manufacturing of various bioconjugate drugs represented by ADC drugs. Taking advantage of this platform, GeneQuantum Healthcare has established cooperation with pharmaceutical companies regarding innovative bioconjugate drug research and development. Dr. Gang Qin, Chairman and President of GeneQuantum Healthcare, said: "GeneQuantum's innovative ADC is about to initiate clinical trial and the pipeline is rapidly expanding. We are thrilled to be recognized and supported by the leading investors such as Huagai Capital and others at this time point. We look forward to working with investors to expedite our business growth in highly differentiated innovative products, to further expand the application of iLDC platform, and to enhance our unique advantages in precision diagnosis and treatment of tumors, so as to provide innovative treatment plan for cancer patients worldwide. With our advantages in intelligent continuous conjugation platform, we will cooperate with international and domestic pharmaceutical companies to rapidly promote more and better bioconjugate drug development and industrialization." Mr. Zhiqiang Zeng, the managing partner of Huagai Capital, said: "GeneQuantum is a first class enzymatic-conjugation ADC company in the world. It has independently developed its unique iLDC platform and is capable of growing into an internationally competitive biopharmaceutical leader. The next generation of ADCs developed by GeneQuantum Healthcare will help more patients in the future." Mr. Qun Zhao, partner of Oriza Seed, said: "We are very optimistic about the potential of enzymatic conjugation technology in the field of ADCs. GeneQuantum Healthcare comprises vast technical accumulation and innovative reserves. We'll expect the release of GeneQuantum Healthcare's products to benefit patients as soon as possible." About Huagai Capital Huagai Capital is a private equity investment institution jointly founded by a group of professionals from well-known domestic and foreign investment institutions. The company is committed to promoting the growth of small companies into an industry leader in China with the vision of "becoming an internationally influential local asset management institution". At present, it manages a number of equity investment funds such as medical health funds, TMT funds, cultural funds, etc., and its asset management scale exceeds RMB 10 billion. About Oriza Seed Oriza Seed is a member company of Suzhou Oriza Holdings Co., Ltd. It is a professional early stage equity investment platform for market operation, focusing on investment opportunities for start-up and growth companies in medical health and TMT. Oriza Origin is experienced and has broad influence in medical and health. About TF Capital TF Capital focuses on investment in the life sciences industry, primarily investing in early stage companies with high potential. The investment team has vast experience and resources in industry to assist our portfolio companies. Through diversified strategic layout and selection of quality partners, TF Capital hopes to capture opportunities in the rapidly expanding Chinese life sciences market. Founded in 2014, TF has invested in more than 30 life sciences startups. About Hofon Capital Hofon Capital is a fund focused on early-stage project investment in the field of biomedical health. With the strategy of "industrial empowerment" + "financial investment", it focuses on biomedicine, high-end medical devices, medical services, and medical information. The management team has rich medical and health industry background and equity investment experience. The current management scale is about 1.6 billion yuan. It has invested in ColinBrain (Medical Big Data), Yichao Medical (Ultrasonic Medical Devices), EyeCure (Development of new stem cell drugs), LeadsBiolabs (new drug development), iRegene (neural stem cell research and development), GeneQuantum Healthcare (new drug development) and other high-quality enterprises. About Changjinboya Changjinboya is a fund of Beijing Changping Technology Innodevelop Group (CTID). CTID is a wholly-owned industrial investment platform established by the Beijing Changping District Government, which comprises three business systems of asset management, technology finance and industrial services. CTID is committed to build one-stop industrial platform integrating capital, talent, technology, information, culture and space. At present, CTID focuses on Huilongguan, Science and Technology Park, Future Science City and other regions, and has acquired a total of nearly 600,000 square meters of equity industry carriers. The three major funds under CTID have a scale of RMB 2.5 billion, and the participating fund has a scale of RMB 20 billion. It directly or indirectly invested in more than 600 projects. SOURCE GeneQuantum SAO PAULO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Highest first-quarter EBITDA of last 11 years in 1Q19 (R$ 1.6 billion), with EBITDA margin of 15.5%. Dividend distribution in 1Q19 of R$ 0.07 per share for Gerdau S.A. Financial leverage (net debt/adjusted EBITDA) of 1.8x on March 31, 2019, down sharply from 2.7x on March 31, 2018. Substantial improvement in EBITDA and EBITDA margin at North America BD, to R$ 506 million and 13.2%. Additional Information Gerdau S.A. (NYSE: GGB, BM&Fbovespa: GGBR3, GGBR4) informs that it is filling today its 1Q19 results at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and at the Comissao de Valores Mobiliarios (CVM), which are available at Gerdau's website. To access this document, please click on https://ri.gerdau.com/notices-and-results/results-center#2019 The 1Q19 Valuation Guide is also available at Gerdau's website: https://ri.gerdau.com/financial-information/valuation-guide Investor Relations [email protected] 55 11 3094 6300 SOURCE Gerdau S.A. Related Links http://ri.gerdau.com NEW YORK, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Executive Summary A comprehensive research report created through extensive primary research (inputs from industry experts, companies, stakeholders) and secondary research, the report aims to present the analysis of Global Power transformer remote monitoring and diagnostic market. The Global Power Transformer Remote Monitoring & Diagnostic Market has been analysed By Type (Hardware Solutions, Software Solutions), By Service (Oil & Gas Monitoring, Bushing Monitoring, Others), By Region (Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East Africa) and By Country (United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Rest of Americas, Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Rest of Europe, China, Japan, India, Rest of APAC, Middle East, Africa) for the historical period of 3014-2018 and the forecast period of 2019-2024. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05773450/?utm_source=PRN Global Power transformer remote monitoring and diagnostic market is expected to grow owing to the increase in the power supply demand, government regulations and initiatives targeting the monitoring and control of the transmission networks. Power generation capacity is rising globally to meet the increasing demand of growing population and emerging industrialization in various parts of the world. This rapid growth in power sector has led to large number of installations of power plants which is propelling the market. According to the report "Global Power Transformer Remote Monitoring and Diagnostic Market: Analysis By Type (Hardware solutions, Software Solutions), By Service (Oil and Gas Monitoring, Bushing Monitoring, Others), By Region, By Country (2019 Edition): Opportunities and Forecast (2014-2024) - By Region (Americas, Europe, APAC, MEA), By Country (US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Rest of Americas, Germany, France, Italy, UK, Rest of Europe, China, Japan, India, Rest of APAC, MEA)", Global market by value is projected to display growth represented by a CAGR of over 8.83% during 2019 2024, primarily driven by growing urbanization and major initiatives taken by the governments in developing countries for the development of power sector. Leading transformer manufacturing companies are developing more reliable and long-lasting solution services which are more relying on the latest technology. The demand is growing from major developing countries for the installation of power plants under power projects. The report titled "Global Power Transformer Remote Monitoring and Diagnostic Market: Analysis By Type (Hardware solutions, Software Solutions), By Service (Oil and Gas Monitoring, Bushing Monitoring, Others), By Region, By Country (2019 Edition): Opportunities and Forecast (2014-2024) - By Region (Americas, Europe, APAC, MEA), By Country (US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Rest of Americas, Germany, France, Italy, UK, Rest of Europe, China, Japan, India, Rest of APAC, MEA)' has covered and analysed the potential of global Power transformer remote monitoring and diagnostic market and provides statistics and information on market size, shares and growth factors. The report intends to provide cutting-edge market intelligence and help decision makers take sound investment evaluation. Scope of the Report Global Power Transformer Remote Monitoring and Diagnostic market (Actual Period: 2018, Forecast Period: 2019-2024) Global Power Transformer Remote Monitoring and Diagnostic Market (Value) Size, Growth, Forecast By Type Hardware Solution, Software Solution By Services Oil and Gas Monitoring, Bushing Monitoring, others Regional Analysis - Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa (Actual Period: 2018, Forecast Period: 2019-2024) Power Transformer Remote Monitoring and Diagnostic Market (Value) Size, Growth, Forecast By Type - Hardware Solution, Software Solution By Services Oil and Gas Monitoring, Bushing Monitoring, others Country Analysis - United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Rest of Europe, China, Japan, India (Actual Period: 2018, Forecast Period: 2019-2024) Power Transformer Remote Monitoring and Diagnostic Market (Value) Size, Growth, Forecast By Type - Hardware Solution, Software Solution By Services Oil and Gas Monitoring, Bushing Monitoring, others Other Report Highlights Market Dynamics Drivers and Restraints Market Trends Porter Five Force Analysis Competitive Landscape Company Analysis Siemens AG, Qualitrol Corp, Camlin Power Inc, BPL Global LLC, ABB, Wilson Transformer Company, SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC, Honeywell International, Advanced Power Technologies, Eaton Corporation Customization of the Report The report could be customized according to the client's specific research requirements. No additional cost will be required to pay for limited additional research. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05773450/?utm_source=PRN 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 http://www.reportlinker.com SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- GlobalMed, an international provider of virtual care solutions, today announced that it has transitioned to the prestigious ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001:2015 Quality Management Standard and the ISO 13485:2016 Medical Devices Standard. Both certifications were granted for the company's design, development and manufacture of telemedicine stations, medical device cameras and software for medical examination and microscopic study. GlobalMed had successfully maintained certification under ISO 9001:2008 and ISO13485:2003 prior to this transition. ISO 9001 is the internationally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS). It is the most widely used QMS standard in the world, with over 1.1 million certificates issued to organizations in 178 countries. ISO 9001:2015 is the most updated standard of its kind and focuses on quality management systems and performance. It assists companies in developing a management system that aligns quality with their wider business strategy. ISO 13485 is the quality management system standard for medical device manufacturers and their sub-tier suppliers and subcontractors. Based on the ISO 9001 standard, ISO 13485 includes additional requirements for medical device manufacturers to demonstrate their intent to comply with applicable regulatory and statutory requirements. ISO 13485 is recognized as an aid in supporting compliance with the Medical Device Directive. "Our move from ISO 9001:2008 to the updated standard demonstrates our desire to always perform at the highest levels of quality and efficiency. It's essential to delivering innovative, high quality and customer-focused virtual care solutions to our customers," said Joel E. Barthelemy, GlobalMed's founder and CEO. "I am continually inspired by the work our team does to make high-quality healthcare accessible everywhere. With the right equipment, software and connectivity for each healthcare setting, care can be delivered to patients in the most difficult-to-reach spots and the most challenging environments. Innovative healthcare delivery systems can be a great equalizer." Barthelemy added that the ISO certifications come on the heels of GlobalMed becoming a Microsoft Gold Partner. "2019 is shaping up to be a banner year for GlobalMed," Barthelemy said. "But more important, it's a year in which we will continue to bring meaningful solutions to providers and patients whose stories of struggle often go untold, and help make their lives healthier, more supported and more connected." Jon Cross, National Sales and Marketing Manager, NQA USA, said: "NQA is proud to award GlobalMed with certification to ISO 9001 and ISO 13485. It is a testament to their dedication in providing their customers with consistently high-quality services that they can trust. We are looking forward to continuing our relationship with them in the future." NQA's worldwide operations are accredited to perform management systems registrations by ANAB (American National Standards Institute/Registrar Accreditation Board), UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) and various other regional and industry-specific oversight bodies. "We appreciate NQA's recognition of GlobalMed's commitment to quality," Barthelemy said. "In addition to the certifications themselves, the recognition reminds us of the importance of living up to our promise of serving patientswhether they're military veterans, Native Americans, isolated tribes around the globe, oil-rig workers, the President of the United States, or anyone else who can benefit from a more connected healthcare environment." About GlobalMed GlobalMed powers the world's largest, most advanced virtual care programs by designing, manufacturing, and deploying fully integrated software and hardware solutions that remove the barriers of technology from the business of patient care. Providers are enabled with data capturing tools to deliver evidence-based treatment and improve patient outcomes while lowering costs. Providers looking for their own technology to manage capacity, save money, and deliver responsible medicine, will get all they need from one platform. Recognizing the importance of trust and consistency in healthcare, GlobalMed also offers white-label versions of their systems so that providers can self-brand their virtual care offerings to strengthen the patient relationship with their organization. GlobalMed is honored to be the telehealth provider to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Defense Health Agency, and the White House. With over 15 million consults delivered in over 60 countries, its virtual care platform has the Authority to Operate (ATO) on U.S. Department of Defense networks with the highest level of security and supports a patient at any point in the continuum of care. Learn more at www.globalmed.com. About NQA NQA is a leading global independently accredited certification body, providing assessments (audits) of organizations to various Management System Standards since 1988. NQA is part of NTS, the leading independent provider of environmental simulation testing, inspection and certification services in the USA. NTS serves a broad range of industries, including the civil aviation, space, defense, nuclear, telecommunications, industrial, electronics, medical and automotive markets. NQA has expertise in many diverse industries including aerospace, telecommunications, electronics, information technology, professional services, transportation and distribution, automotive, plastics, metal and machinery, foods and supply chain management. This expansive expertise means NQA, can offer its clients a single point of contact saving them time, as well as an experienced and competent staff based internationally and locally to provide effective attention. NQA's worldwide operations are accredited to perform management systems registrations by ANAB (American National Standards Institute/Registrar Accreditation Board), UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) and various other regional and industry-specific oversight bodies. Media contact: Marcia Rhodes, Amendola Communications, (480) 664-8412, ext. 15 [email protected] SOURCE GlobalMed Related Links http://www.globalmed.com GILBERT, Ariz., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- GO Car Wash, the nation's newest express car wash platform, has acquired Travel Clean Express Car Wash in Overland Park, Kansas, and Lee's Summit, Missouri. Travel Clean is one of the original conveyorized express car washes in the Kansas City market. The acquisition marks the inaugural acquisition for GO Car Wash, which was founded in early 2019. "GO Car Wash is excited to welcome Travel Clean's car washes into the GO Car Wash platform," said Darren Skarecky, CEO of GO Car Wash. "Travel Clean's owner, Spencer Gregg, is a pioneer in exterior express car washes, and GO Car Wash will build on that strength." "We intend to invest heavily in Kansas City, with plans to operate over 20 car washes throughout the market," said Skarecky. "We are very pleased to begin that with Travel Clean and are excited about the other opportunities in the pipeline." "I could not have chosen a better group to partner with that will continue on with the legacy we have built," said Spencer Gregg. "The GO Car Wash Team has been fantastic; I couldn't be happier." GO Car Wash will deploy a multi-pronged growth strategy focused on acquisitions, partnerships and new site build outs. About GO Car Wash GO Car Wash was founded in 2019 with the goal of building a multi-regional car wash company with clusters throughout secondary cities across North America. Headquartered in Phoenix, GO Car Wash plans to focus primarily on high-quality exterior express car washes. GO Car Wash will deploy a multi-pronged growth strategy focused on acquisitions, partnerships and new site build outs. Media Contacts GO Car Wash Darren Skarecky President and CEO [email protected] 480-744-0154 JT Thomson COO [email protected] 480-744-0495 SOURCE GO Car Wash By the Hill, May 05, 2019 Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) on Sunday criticized The New York Times for its framing of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, calling the paper's headline about the recent violence in the region "dehumanizing." Tlaib was responding to a Times headline that read "Gaza militants fire 250 rockets, and Israel responds with airstrikes." HOUSTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodrich Petroleum Corporation (NYSE American: GDP) (the "Company") today announced recent developments and financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS The Company has a commitment, subject to definitive documentation, from a group of lenders with respect to a new Senior Credit Facility (the "New Credit Facility") with an initial borrowing base of $115 million, representing a $40 million increase over the borrowing base in the Company's existing credit facility. The New Credit Facility is expected to have terms and conditions comparable to those in the Company's existing credit facility and is expected to close in mid-May 2019. Upon closing of the New Credit Facility, the Company currently plans to redeem its existing Convertible Second Lien Notes for approximately $56.9 million and issue $12.0 million of new Second Lien Notes (the "New 2L Notes"), subject to definitive documentation. The New 2L Notes are expected to have a tenor of two years and be prepayable at the Company's option during the first year following issuance at 101% of par value or at par value in year two. Similar to the existing Convertible Second Lien Notes, interest on the New 2L Notes is expected to be paid-in-kind at a rate of 13.5% per annum. Production for the first quarter averaged approximately 104,000 Mcfe per day, an increase of 182% from the previous year and 5% sequentially. The Company added two wells in the middle of the first quarter which provided the growth in production for the quarter. Since the end of the first quarter, the Company has added to production two wells with 7,500 foot laterals, its Loftus 27&22 No. 1 & 2 (97% WI) wells, at a combined 24-hour peak rate of over 50,000 Mcfe per day and one well with a 4,600 foot lateral, its MSR Hunt 5H-1 (62% WI) well, at a peak 24-hour rate of approximately 17,000 Mcfe per day. With the results from these wells, the Company has exceeded its midpoint of yearly guidance and expects to average 135,000 142,000 Mcfe per day in the second quarter. THE COMPANY HAS POSTED A NEW PRESENTATION ON THE COMPANY'S WEBSITE WHICH WILL BE REVIEWED ON THE EARNINGS CONFERENCE CALL. INVESTORS CAN ACCESS THE SLIDES AT: http://goodrichpetroleumcorp.investorroom.com/investor-relations 1Q19 FINANCIAL RESULTS REVENUES Revenues totaled $29.1 million in the quarter, versus $11.8 million in the prior year period. Average realized price per unit was $3.12 per Mcfe ($2.91 per Mcf of gas and $59.45 per barrel of oil) in the quarter, versus $3.57 per Mcfe in the prior year period ($2.68 per Mcf of gas and $65.00 per barrel of oil). PRODUCTION Production totaled approximately 9.3 Bcfe in the quarter, or an average of approximately 104,000 Mcfe per day, versus 3.3 Bcfe, or average daily production of approximately 37,000 Mcfe per day, in the prior year period. Natural gas production totaled 9.1 Bcf in the quarter (97% of total production), versus 3.0 Bcf (89% of total production) during the prior year period. CAPITAL EXPENDITURES Capital expenditures totaled $29.5 million in the quarter, of which $28.5 million was spent on drilling and completion costs and $1.0 million on other expenditures, versus $21.0 million in the prior year period of which $20.6 million was spent on drilling and completion costs and $0.4 million on other expenditures. The vast majority of the quarter's total capital expenditures were spent in the Haynesville Shale Trend. NET INCOME/LOSS The Company announced net income of $0.4 million in the quarter, or $0.04 per basic and $0.03 per fully diluted share, versus a net loss of $5.3 million or $0.47 per basic and fully diluted share in the prior year period. CASH FLOW Adjusted EBITDA was $15.2 million in the quarter and discretionary cash flow ("DCF"), defined as net cash provided by operating activities before changes in working capital, was $14.8 million in the quarter versus Adjusted EBITDA of $3.4 million and DCF of $3.2 million in the prior year period. (See accompanying tables at the end of this press release that reconcile Adjusted EBITDA and DCF, each of which are non-US GAAP financial measures, to their most directly comparable US GAAP financial measure.) OPERATING EXPENSES Lease operating expense ("LOE") was $3.3 million in the quarter or $0.36 per Mcfe, versus $2.6 million, or $0.77 per Mcfe in the prior year period. LOE for the quarter included $0.6 million, or $0.07 per Mcfe, for workovers, versus $0.4 million or $0.10 per Mcfe in the prior year period. Lease operating expense for the quarter excluding workovers was $2.7 million or $0.29 per Mcfe versus $2.2 million or $0.67 per Mcfe in the prior year period. Production and other taxes were $0.6 million in the quarter or $0.07 per Mcfe, versus $0.6 million, or $0.19 per Mcfe in the prior year period. Transportation and processing expense was $4.7 million in the quarter, or $0.50 per Mcfe, versus $1.3 million or $0.40 per Mcfe in the prior year period. Depreciation, depletion and amortization ("DD&A") expense was $10.0 million in the quarter or $1.08 per Mcfe, versus $3.5 million, or $1.04 per Mcfe in the prior year period. General and administrative expense ("G&A") was $5.3 million in the quarter, which includes non-cash expense of $1.5 million for stock based compensation versus $5.2 million in the prior year period which included $1.7 million for stock based compensation. (See accompanying table at the end of this press release that reconciles G&A expense payable in cash, which is a non-US GAAP financial measure, to its most directly comparable US GAAP financial measure.) OPERATING INCOME/LOSS Operating income, defined as revenues minus operating expenses, totaled $5.1 million in the quarter, versus an operating loss of $1.3 million in the prior year period. INTEREST EXPENSE Interest expense totaled $3.7 million in the quarter, which includes cash interest of $0.5 million incurred on the credit facility and non-cash interest of $3.2 million incurred on the Company's second lien notes, which includes $1.8 million paid in-kind interest and $1.4 million amortization of debt discount and issuance costs. Interest expense for the prior year period totaled $2.7 million, which included cash interest of $0.2 million incurred on the credit facility and non-cash interest of $2.5 million incurred on the Company's second lien notes, which included $1.6 million paid in-kind interest and $0.9 million amortization of debt discount. (See accompanying table at the end of this press release that reconciles interest payable in cash, which is a non-US GAAP financial measure, to its most directly comparable US GAAP financial measure.) CRUDE OIL AND NATURAL GAS DERIVATIVES The Company had a loss of $1.0 million on its derivatives not designated as hedges in the quarter, which is comprised of a loss of $1.8 million on cash settlements offset by a $0.8 million gain representing the change of the fair value of our open natural gas and oil derivative contracts, versus a total loss of $1.0 million on its derivatives not designated as hedges in the prior year period, which was comprised of a loss of $0.6 million representing the change in fair value of our open natural gas and oil derivative contracts as well as a $0.4 million loss on cash settlements. During the quarter, the Company added natural gas swaps through March 31, 2020 for 30,000 Mmbtu per day at $2.951 per Mcf. BALANCE SHEET The Company exited the quarter with $32 million outstanding under the Company's senior credit facility (which had a borrowing base of $75 million with an elected draw limit of $50 million), and total principal debt outstanding, including the senior credit facility and second lien notes, of $87.5 million. OTHER INFORMATION In this press release, the Company refers to several non-US GAAP financial measures, including Adjusted EBITDA and DCF. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA and DCF are good financial indicators of the Company's performance and ability to internally generate operating funds. DCF should not be considered an alternative to net cash provided by operating activities, as defined by US GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered an alternative to net income (loss), as defined by US GAAP. Management believes that all of these non-US GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors because they are monitored and used by Company management and widely used by professional research analysts in the valuation and investment recommendations of companies within the oil and gas exploration and production industry. Initial production rates are subject to decline over time and should not be regarded as reflective of sustained production levels. In particular, production from horizontal drilling in shale oil and natural gas resource plays and tight natural gas plays that are stimulated with extensive pressure fracturing are typically characterized by significant early declines in production rates. Unless otherwise stated, oil production volumes include condensate. Certain statements in this news release regarding future expectations and plans for future activities may be regarded as "forward looking statements" within the meaning of the Securities Litigation Reform Act. They are subject to various risks, such as financial market conditions, changes in commodities prices and costs of drilling and completion, operating hazards, drilling risks, and the inherent uncertainties in interpreting engineering data relating to underground accumulations of oil and gas, as well as other risks discussed in detail in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 and other subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. There is no assurance that the New Credit Facility or New 2L Notes will close since they are both subject to the negotiation of definitive documentation. Goodrich Petroleum is an independent oil and natural gas exploration and production company listed on the NYSE American under the symbol "GDP". GOODRICH PETROLEUM CORPORATION SELECTED INCOME AND PRODUCTION DATA (In thousands, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Volumes Natural gas (MMcf) 9,060 2,952 Oil and condensate (MBbls) 47 61 Mmcfe - Total 9,342 3,316 Mcfe per day 103,795 36,844 Oil and natural gas revenues $ 29,146 $ 11,843 Other (6) (9) $ 29,140 $ 11,834 Operating Expenses Lease operating expense (LOE excluding workovers - $2,687 and $2,218, respectively) 3,335 2,566 Production and other taxes 631 640 Transportation and processing 4,701 1,312 Depreciation, depletion and amortization 10,046 3,452 General and administrative (payable in cash - $3,766 and $3,521, respectively) 5,310 5,196 Other 10 - Operating income (loss) 5,107 (1,332) Other income (expense) - - Interest expense (payable in cash - $465 and $173, respectively) (3,657) (2,673) Interest income (expense) and other 6 (7) Loss on commodity derivatives not designated as hedges (1,008) (981) (4,659) (3,661) Reorganization loss, net - (331) Income (loss) before income taxes 448 (5,324) Income tax benefit - - Net income (loss) $ 448 $ (5,324) Discretionary cash flow (see non-US GAAP reconciliation) (1) $ 14,800 $ 3,232 Adjusted EBITDA (see calculation and non-US GAAP reconciliation) (2) $ 15,214 $ 3,411 Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic 12,151 11,218 Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted (3) 14,132 11,218 Net income (loss) per share Net income (loss) - basic $ 0.04 $ (0.47) Net income (loss) - diluted $ 0.03 $ (0.47) (1) Discretionary cash flow is defined as net cash provided by operating activities before changes in operating assets and liabilities. Management believes that the non-US GAAP measure of discretionary cash flow is useful as an indicator of an oil and natural gas exploration and production company's ability to internally fund exploration and development activities and to service or incur additional debt. The company has also included this information because changes in operating assets and liabilities relate to the timing of cash receipts and disbursements which the company may not control and may not relate to the period in which the operating activities occurred. Operating cash flow should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net cash provided by operating activities prepared in accordance with US GAAP. (2) Adjusted EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest expense, income and similar taxes, DD&A, share based compensation expense and impairment of oil and natural gas properties. In calculating adjusted EBITDA, reorganization gains/losses and gains/losses on commodity derivatives not designated as hedges net of cash received or paid in settlement of derivative instruments are also excluded. Other excluded items include interest income and other, adjustments per our 2017 Senior Credit Facility agreement for operating leases under ASC 842 and any other extraordinary non-cash gains/losses. (3) Fully diluted shares excludes approximately 1.9 million potentially dilutive instruments that were anti-dilutive for the three months ended March 31, 2019, and 4.0 million potentially dilutive instruments that were anti-dilutive for the three months ended March 31, 2018. GOODRICH PETROLEUM CORPORATION Per Unit Sales Prices and Costs (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Average sales price per unit: Oil (per Bbl) Including net cash received from/paid to settle oil derivatives $ 57.06 $ 57.99 Excluding net cash received from/paid to settle oil derivatives $ 59.45 $ 65.00 Natural gas (per Mcf) Including net cash received from/paid to settle natural gas derivatives $ 2.73 $ 2.69 Excluding net cash received from/paid to settle natural gas derivatives $ 2.91 $ 2.68 Oil and natural gas (per Mcfe) Including net cash received from/paid to settle oil and natural gas derivatives $ 2.93 $ 3.45 Excluding net cash received from/paid to settle oil and natural gas derivatives $ 3.12 $ 3.57 Costs Per Mcfe Lease operating expense ($0.29 and $0.67 excluding workovers, respectively) $ 0.36 $ 0.77 Production and other taxes $ 0.07 $ 0.19 Transportation and processing $ 0.50 $ 0.40 Depreciation, depletion and amortization $ 1.08 $ 1.04 General and administrative (payable in cash - $0.40 and $1.06, respectively) $ 0.57 $ 1.57 Other $ - $ - $ 2.57 $ 3.97 . Note: Amounts on a per Mcfe basis may not total due to rounding. GOODRICH PETROLEUM CORPORATION Cash Flow Data (In Thousands) (Unaudited) Reconciliation of discretionary cash flow and net cash provided by operating activities (unaudited) Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Net cash provided by operating activities (US GAAP) $ 17,907 $ 6,256 Net changes in working capital 3,107 3,024 Discretionary cash flow (1) $ 14,800 $ 3,232 Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income (loss) $ 448 $ (5,324) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities Depletion, depreciation and amortization 10,046 3,452 Right of use asset depreciation 285 - Loss on derivatives not designated as hedges 1,008 981 Net cash paid for settlement of derivative instruments (1,760) (384) Share based compensation (non-cash) 1,568 1,675 Amortization of finance cost, debt discount, paid in-kind interest and accretion 3,193 2,501 Reorganization items (non-cash) and other 12 331 Change in assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable, trade and other, net of allowance (656) (1,165) Accrued oil and gas revenue 2,236 (828) Prepaid expenses and other 35 (108) Accounts payable 2,641 6,848 Accrued liabilities (1,149) (1,723) Net cash provided by operating activities 17,907 6,256 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Capital expenditures (28,254) (28,990) Proceeds from sale of assets 1,284 23,209 Net cash used in investing activities (26,970) (5,781) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Principal payments of bank borrowings (2,000) (16,723) Proceeds from bank borrowings 7,000 - Issuance cost, net - (10) Other (including cash for purchase of Treasury Stock) (5) (3) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 4,995 (16,736) Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (4,068) (16,261) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 4,068 25,992 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ - $ 9,731 GOODRICH PETROLEUM CORPORATION Other Information and Reconciliations (In Thousands) Supplemental Balance Sheet Data (unaudited) As of March 31, 2019 Cash and cash equivalents $ - Long-term debt, net $ 84,969 Unamortized debt discount and issuance cost 2,524 Total principal amount of debt $ 87,493 Reconciliation of Net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Net income (loss) (US GAAP) $ 448 $ (5,324) Depreciation, depletion and amortization ("DD&A") 10,046 3,452 Stock compensation expense (non-cash) 1,568 1,675 Interest expense 3,657 2,673 Loss on derivatives not designated as hedges 1,008 981 Net cash paid for settlement of derivative instruments (1,760) (384) Other items ** 247 338 Adjusted EBITDA (2) $ 15,214 $ 3,411 ** Other items include $0.3 million from the impact of accounting for operating leases under ASC 842 as well as interest income, reorganization items and other non-recurring income and expense. Derivative Activity Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Change in fair value of derivatives not designated as hedges $ 752 $ (597) Net cash paid for settlement of derivative instruments (1,760) (384) Net loss on derivatives not designated as hedges $ (1,008) $ (981) Reconciliation of interest payable in cash to interest expense Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Interest expense (GAAP) $ 3,657 $ 2,673 Amortization of debt discount and issuance cost and paid-in-kind interest (3,192) (2,500) Interest payable in cash $ 465 $ 173 GOODRICH PETROLEUM CORPORATION Other Information and Reconciliations continued (In Thousands) Reconciliation of capital expenditures (unaudited) Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 Net cash used in investing activities (US GAAP) $ (26,970) $ (5,781) Inventory utilized - (204) Cash proceeds related to sale of assets (1,284) (23,209) Miscellaneous capitalized costs (202) (177) Cost incurred in prior period and paid in current period 8,086 10,511 Capital accrual at period end (9,145) (2,151) Total capital expenditures $ (29,515) $ (21,011) Reconciliation of general & administrative expense payable in cash to general and administrative expense (unaudited) Three Months Ended Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 March 31, 2018 General & administrative expense (GAAP) $ 5,310 $ 5,196 Share based compensation (1,544) (1,675) General & administrative expense payable in cash $ 3,766 $ 3,521 Oil and natural gas production (Mcfe) 9,342 3,316 General and administrative expense payable in cash per Mcfe $ 0.40 $ 1.06 SOURCE Goodrich Petroleum Corporation Related Links http://www.goodrichpetroleum.com ARLINGTON, Va., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- State and territorial health officials are assessing maternal care programs within their states to address the rise in maternal deaths across the nation. According to a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Vital Signs report, each year more than 700 women in the United States die during pregnancy, delivery, or up to a year postpartum, with three out of every five of these deaths being preventable. The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) and its members are committed to protecting the health of mothers through multidisciplinary efforts to address preventable deaths, such as closing gaps in access to quality preconception and prenatal care, care for chronic conditions, missed diagnoses, and maternal education. "Across the country, state and territorial health officials are continually analyzing women's health data, programs, and outcomes to address and prevent maternal mortality and morbidity," says Michael Fraser, CEO of ASTHO. "As with all public health issues, officials take this trend very seriously, and we know that tackling this issue involves addressing the unique social, economic, and healthcare challenges that impact women's health on multiple levels in every state." The causes of maternal mortality and morbidity vary widely, depending on many local factors and stage of pregnancy or post-pregnancy. For example, weakened heart muscles (cardiomyopathy) are the leading cause of death between one week and one year postpartum. Postpartum care, however, often focuses on the infantnot the mother. Providing and covering high-quality care for mothers the first year following birth would ensure prompt follow-up care and communication about issues like severe bleeding, high blood pressure, and infection. "The majority of deaths from pregnancy-related complications are absolutely preventable," says Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health and president of ASTHO. "We also know that significant racial and ethnic disparities exist in the rates of fatalities from pregnancy-related complications. Health systems, healthcare providers, and public health professionals need to continue taking measures to improve access to and coordination and delivery of quality care for all women, regardless of their ZIP code. We also need to engage patients and communities in this work so that everyone knows that their voice matters, and that they are being heard." Many states are assessing maternal and perinatal levels of care and the standardized capabilities of individual hospitals to ensure pregnant women deliver at facilities equipped for a range of medical outcomes. Some of these efforts include: Indiana passed a perinatal levels of care law (SB 360) last year so the state health department could establish a program to certify perinatal levels of care designations for licensed hospitals and birthing centers. The Indiana State Department of Health also works alongside the Indiana Hospital Association, the Indiana Rural Health Association, and the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration's Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning to investigate opportunities to keep rural hospitals and obstetric units open, as 35 of Indiana's 92 counties either have no hospital or have a hospital without obstetric services. passed a perinatal levels of care law (SB 360) last year so the state health department could establish a program to certify perinatal levels of care designations for licensed hospitals and birthing centers. The Indiana State Department of Health also works alongside the Indiana Hospital Association, the Indiana Rural Health Association, and the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration's Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning to investigate opportunities to keep rural hospitals and obstetric units open, as 35 of 92 counties either have no hospital or have a hospital without obstetric services. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) established a multidisciplinary Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force to review cases of pregnancy-related deaths and severe maternal morbidity, identify trends and disparities, examine best practices, and make recommendations to reduce the incidence of pregnancy-related deaths and severe maternal morbidity. Additionally, Texas DSHS is leading the statewide TexasAIM initiative to help hospitals and clinics in Texas carry out maternal safety projects. carry out maternal safety projects. The North Carolina Maternal Mortality Review Committee identified significant racial disparities in maternal deaths, causing the state to place a greater emphasis on addressing the non-medical issues responsible for exacerbating these disparities. These efforts led to a reduction in disparities in pregnancy-related deaths over a 10-year period. North Carolina continues to work to confront the remaining increased risk of pregnancy-related deaths among black women. 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 Related Links www.astho.org KEY LARGO, Fla., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- HempStaff, a leader in recruiting for employees in the cannabis and hemp industries that has trained over 7,000 students in 20 states, has announced it is further expanding its footprint by bringing its state-specific training program to Missouri as the state moves forward with implementing its medical cannabis program. HempStaff will offer its first medical marijuana dispensary training courses in St. Louis, Missouri, on Saturday, May 18, 2019, at 11237 Lone Eagle Drive Bridgeton, MO 63044. In November 2018, Missouri voters approved Amendment Two that legalized a medical marijuana program. The program is expected to be active by early 2020. In the meantime, Missouri's application for businesses that want to grow or sell cannabis has been released making now a better time than ever for those interested in a cannabis-related career to acquire the skills they need to succeed in the state's new industry. "We were thrilled when Missouri passed Amendment Two for a medical marijuana program and cannot wait to educate the state on how they can land a job in this incredibly fast-growing industry," said HempStaff CEO James Yagielo. "A dispensary agent, often called a budtender, has an important role for the patient because they are basically a medical marijuana pharmacist. We want to ensure each person who is interested in working in these positions is educated and has every opportunity to follow their dreams within the cannabis industry." HempStaff is hosting the four-hour, fast-paced classes at 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. CDT in St. Louis to ensure those who are interested in working as a dispensary agent in Missouri are educated and prepared for interviews when hiring processes begin. In each class, students will learn how to help patients meet medical needs by recommending the right products and dosage. Additionally, students will learn how to manage point-of-sale systems, inventory systems and security in the cannabis industry. HempStaff's medical marijuana dispensary training also provides a resume review to ensure the document is formatted correctly and important information is present for hiring managers. HempStaff also orchestrates a summary exam at the end of each class which would allow those who pass to obtain a HempStaff Certification, which students can add to their resume. The cannabis industry is the fastest-growing job market in the United States and the average salary for a dispensary agent is $32,240. In Missouri, there have been more than 400 business applications for cannabis retail, cultivation and processing which has generated more than $3 million in pre-license fees, according to Marijuana Business Magazine's Salary Survey. The first St. Louis dispensary training course is $249 prior to the class online or $300 at the door. To learn more about the St. Louis class or purchase tickets, visit www.hempstaff.com. ABOUT HEMPSTAFF HempStaff was founded in April 2014 by husband-and-wife duo James and Rosie Yagielo. The company has quickly become an industry leader in cannabis training in addition to medical marijuana, adult-use marijuana and hemp recruiting. HempStaff specializes in finding management-level employees, such as master growers, extractors or dispensary managers. HempStaff also hosts multiple cannabis dispensary training courses around the United States. To date, HempStaff has helped thousands get jobs in the cannabis industry and has trained over 7,000 students to work in a marijuana dispensary in 20 different states. Public Relations Contact: Cassandra Dowell CMW Media [email protected] 858-264-6600 Related Images hempstaff.jpg HempStaff SOURCE HempStaff Related Links http://www.hempstaff.com His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Her Excellency Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson and CEO, Qatar Foundation, and His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of Qatar Olympic Committee, also attended the event in Education City's Ceremonial Court, alongside ministers and dignitaries, university deans, faculty, and family members. The Class of 2019 now join QF's growing global alumni network which already has more than 5,000 members having graduated in fields including medicine, engineering, art and design, computer science, law, communication, and Islamic studies. Tonight's Convocation ceremony was an opportunity for graduates from QF's nine universities to collectively look back on their time and accomplishments at Education City and look to the future. Her Excellency Sheikha Hind said, "For our Class of 2019 graduates, Convocation is many things: a personal and shared celebration, a source of pride, and a time to reflect on their achievements and experiences at Education City. It is a culmination but it is also a beginning. "At Convocation, the talented, dedicated, and ambitious young people that Qatar Foundation is proud to have called our students step out of one phase of their lives and into the next. A future that holds challenges and possibilities awaits them, but wherever their path leads, they will travel it empowered by the knowledge that they are as well-equipped to create, innovate, contribute, and thrive as any set of graduates in the world. "Every member of our Class of 2019 has recognized and maximized the unique educational opportunity that Qatar Foundation provides. Their academic excellence has been matched by their growth as knowledge-seekers, critical thinkers, and active citizens who are determined to be drivers of positive change. As embodiments of QF's belief in what quality education stands for, and what it makes possible, they will always be part of our story and we will watch with pride as they write their own." Tonight's proceedings began with students from Qatar Leadership Academy a school under the umbrella of QF's Pre-University Education performing the Qatar national anthem. This was followed by the City of Knowledge, the alma mater song of Qatar Foundation, which is sung by its graduates every year at Convocation. The 2019 Convocation keynote speaker was Brandon Stanton, author of 'Humans of New York' a photo blog and book chronicling the lives of people in the US city who, in his address, urged the new QF graduates to concentrate on the things in life that they alone have the power to influence and command. "The modern world has trained us to judge all our efforts by the immediate feedback that they get, but the more sustainable and more sturdy path to success is to forget about those things that are outside your control, and focus on the things that you can control the amount of work that you put in, and what you do on a 24-hour basis with your time," he said. "What Humans of New York eventually became was nothing that I originally intended. All I focused on was going out and photographing every single day and I did that thousands of days in a row. Through focusing on the work, and ignoring what people were saying about it, I was able to innovate and slowly build something that was beyond my wildest dreams." Following the keynote address, the project Mobsron was announced as the winner of Cycle 2 of QF's Akhlaquna Award an initiative announced by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser in 2017 that aims to help nurture positive behavioral change within society. Created by students Nawal Al-Kurbi, Almazun Al-Marri, and Amal Al-Gherainig, Mobsron is a mobile app that helps people who are blind and visually impaired to order food, review ingredients, and compare prices. A film featuring testimonies from Class of 2019 students was also screened at the ceremony before, at the conclusion of the ceremony, each graduate passed through the 'Door to the Future', a long-standing QF tradition that symbolizes students entering a new stage in their lives. Since it was first held in 2008, Convocation has been a platform to collectively celebrate the graduation of students from QF member Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and QF partner universities Texas A&M University at Qatar, Northwestern University in Qatar, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Georgetown University in Qatar, UCL Qatar, and HEC Paris in Qatar. Qatar Foundation Unlocking Human Potential Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) is a non-profit organization that supports Qatar on its journey to becoming a diversified and sustainable economy. QF strives to serve the people of Qatar and beyond by providing specialized programs across its innovation-focused ecosystem of education, research and development, and community development. QF was founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Father Amir, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who shared the vision to provide Qatar with quality education. Today, QF's world-class education system offers lifelong learning opportunities to community members as young as six months through to doctoral level, enabling graduates to thrive in a global environment and contribute to the nation's development. QF is also creating a multidisciplinary innovation hub in Qatar, where homegrown researchers are working to address local and global challenges. By promoting a culture of lifelong learning and fostering social engagement through programs that embody Qatari culture, QF is committed to empowering the local community and contributing to a better world for all. For a complete list of QF's initiatives and projects, please visit: www.qf.org.qa SOURCE Qatar Foundation Related Links http://www.qf.org.qa NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Newly identified subsets of cell types present in joint tissue in people with rheumatoid arthritis and how they interact may explain why only some people respond to existing medications, according to two studies by co-senior author Laura Donlin, PhD, Co-Director of the Derfner Foundation Precision Medicine Laboratory at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) and collaborating colleagues. The findings suggest exciting new targets for developing precision medicine strategies in the future. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints. The immune system mistakenly perceives joint tissue as a harmful invader, like a bacteria or virus, and attacks it, causing inflammation, pain and swelling. RA affects an estimated 1.3 million Americans, about 1% of the population. Critical unmet needs in RA treatment are medications that effectively treat all people with RA, especially those who do not respond to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics. RA involves a complex interplay between many different types of cellsincluding T cells, B cells, monocytes and fibroblastsbut the specific subtypes that drive disease progression are largely undefined. Understanding these cell types more precisely may hold valuable information in developing new treatments. "Right now, the standard approach for treating patients is a trial and error approach. We try the first-line of medication for three months and if it does not work, we try the next one," says Dr. Donlin. "Sometimes it can take a year or more to find an effective treatment. Meanwhile, the disease progresses to the extent of irreversible damage in some of the cases." For the first paper, published in the May 6, 2019 issue of Nature Immunology, co-senior author Dr. Donlin collaborated within the Accelerating Medicines Partnership (AMP) in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus Network (AMP RA/SLE consortium) to create a comprehensive "map" of the cells found in RA joint tissue using advanced sequencing technologies. The AMP RA/SLE consortium is a unique public-private partnership that was created to find new ways to identify and validate promising biological targets for diagnostics and drug development. The researchers identified 18 unique cell populations in synovial tissue provided by 36 patients with RA. Several of the cell types were present in higher amounts in people with RA compared to control samples from patients with osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that results from deterioration of cartilage due to injury or wear over time. For example, Dr. Donlin and colleagues identified a subset of fibroblasts, cells that make connective tissue, in 15 times greater quantities in RA tissues compared to OA tissues. This fibroblast subset is a major producer of the pro-inflammatory cytokine called interleukin-6 and thereby represents a cell type that may be important to focus on in the development of medications for RA patients. Dr. Donlin and colleagues were also the first to identify the presence of a subset of autoimmune-associated B cells in synovial tissue. These too were found in large quantities in the RA samples, indicating that this subtype may also be a promising target for future drug development. "Cutting-edge single-cell RNA sequencing technology allowed us to see the complexity of the cell populations in RA tissue for the first time," says Dr. Donlin. "However, determining whether these expanded cell populations are a cause or an effect of the disease, will require further research." For the second paper, published May 8, 2019 in the journal Science Translational Medicine, co-senior author Dr. Donlin and HSS colleagues conducted additional research using results from the AMP consortium to home in on a particular disease-associating cell type. They discovered an abundant subset of macrophages they referred to as HBEGF+ inflammatory macrophages in the RA tissue samples. Macrophages are white blood cells that readily tailor their actions to signals from other cells. In chronically inflamed RA tissue, macrophages are a known source of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a small protein or cytokine that is involved in inflammatory responses in RA. Next, the researchers tested how clinically-effective RA medications impacted the HBEGF+ inflammatory macrophages and thereby disrupt the disease at the cellular level. They were surprised to discover that COX inhibitors known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) did significantly alter these macrophages, but they did not stop TNF responses. "This finding may explain why NSAIDs treat pain but are not disease-modifying in RA," says Dr. Donlin. "A better approach may be to use NSAIDs in combination with anti-TNF medications to shut down both inflammatory pathways." An experimental drug developed for cancer treatment, an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor called AG-1478, was able to successfully reverse the activity of the HBEGF+ inflammatory macrophages in cell studies. "Our experiment demonstrated that it is possible to target activity of these cells, but this drug has significant systemic side effects in people," says Dr. Donlin. "Our work sets the stage for developing better drugs in the future that could target the same mechanism but in a more specific fashion." "Overall, our work to date on these two papers has identified previously unknown subsets of cells and provided new insights about how some of these cell types interact with each other to drive RA," says Dr. Donlin. "We hope that through a better understanding of the cell populations in individual patients we can provide a means by which we can treat them with precision medicine strategies at the earliest stages of disease." Both studies were funded by the National Institutes of Health. About HSS | Hospital for Special Surgery HSS is the world's leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the ninth consecutive year) and No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S.News & World Report (2018-2019). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has one of the lowest infection rates in the country and was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center four consecutive times. The global standard total knee replacement was developed at HSS in 1969. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State. In addition, HSS will be opening a new facility in Florida in late 2019. In 2018, HSS provided care to 139,000 patients and performed more than 32,000 surgical procedures, and people from all 50 U.S. states and 80 countries travelled to receive care at HSS. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Global Innovation Institute was formed in 2016 to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is the world's leading provider of education on musculoskeletal health, with its online learning platform offering more than 600 courses to more than 21,000 medical professional members worldwide. Through HSS Global Ventures, the institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. SOURCE Hospital for Special Surgery Related Links http://www.hss.edu BOSTON and ANAHEIM, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- HYCU, Inc., a pioneering enterprise software company specializing in data backup, recovery and monitoring for next-generation Enterprise Clouds, today announced it has signed a distribution agreement with Promark, a premier, U.S.-focused value added distributor (VAD) and wholly-owned subsidiary of Ingram Micro Inc. (NYSE: IM), the world's largest technology distributor and global leader in IT supply-chain and mobile device lifecycle services. Under the new agreement, Promark will distribute Nutanix Mine with HYCU, its latest solution for Nutanix customers looking for scale, performance and 1-click simplicity for their secondary storage needs, to its growing base of channel partners in the U.S. For mutual channel partners looking for complete coverage for their Nutanix Enterprise Cloud initiatives, HYCU and Promark offer proven, tested and reliable solutions. With a 100 percent focus on distributing its leading solutions through its partners, HYCU offers Promark and its channel partners exclusive access to special technical resources that include online and live technical trainings, marketing materials and access to senior product technicians who can help mutual partners leverage the breadth and depth of Nutanix solutions and stay ahead of their competitors. "HYCU has, and always will be, focused on delivering innovation and value that our partners need to manage and deliver on their ever complex IT infrastructure requirements, with simplicity, first and foremost in mind," said Simon Taylor, CEO, HYCU, Inc. "Promark's proven expertise in delivering datacenter technologies combined with its expansive sales and services team, help position HYCU well to best meet business needs of our channel partners and expand our reach, sales and technical enablement resources as Nutanix Mine with HYCU gains in market interest." "A major focus in delivering business value is offering the latest emerging and easy-to-use solutions that help our channel partners and their customers move beyond legacy data protection solutions and embrace the newest multi-cloud and HCI technologies," said Jeff Brown, President and General Manager, Promark. "We're excited to extend our relationship with HYCU as its exclusive provider for Nutanix latest secondary storage solution." To learn more about HYCU and Nutanix Mine with HYCU, visit : https://www.hycu.com/nutanix-mine, follow @hycuinc and connect with us on LinkedIn. About HYCU HYCU makes it easy to thrive in a hyper-simple, multi-cloud world. The pioneering enterprise software company specializes in data backup, recovery and monitoring for hyper-converged (HCI), Google Cloud and multi-cloud infrastructures. Headquartered in Boston, Mass., HYCU harnesses 25 years of sophisticated IT experience, insights from over one million users, and work with more than 25,000 customers, more than 10 ISVs and 350 employees to create a deep and unrivaled well of industry expertise. The result is unsurpassed alignment with industry leaders and a formidable competitive advantage in the multi-cloud space. HYCU's flagship products, a purpose-built backup and recovery solution for Nutanix, and a managed backup as a service for Google Cloud Platform, are acclaimed in the industry and features performance and value that are unmatched. About Promark Technology Promark Technology, an Ingram Micro company, is one of the premier value added distributors (VAD) in the United States. Promark's core technology focus is distributing data storage and virtualization products and solutions through a two-tier distribution channel to value added resellers (VARs) and system integrators. Promark leverages its direct relationships with world class technology partners to provide solutions that meet the most demanding needs of its customers. Promark also offers a Public Sector Business Program that helps resellers navigate the government selling process and expand the reach of their Business. The program provides authorized resellers the ability to leverage Promark's GSA Schedule to market and sell products and solutions into both federal government and state and local organizations. Promark offers professional services in application integration, backup and recovery, network optimization, storage implementation and disaster recovery. To learn more about Promark Technology call 800.634.0255 or visit www.promarktech.com. About Ingram Micro Inc. Ingram Micro is the world's largest wholesale technology distributor and a global leader in IT supply-chain and mobile device lifecycle services. As a vital link in the technology value chain, Ingram Micro creates sales and profitability opportunities for vendors and resellers through unique marketing programs, outsourced logistics and mobile solutions, technical support, financial services and product aggregation and distribution. The company is the only global broad-based IT distributor, serving approximately 160 countries on six continents with the world's most comprehensive portfolio of IT products and services. Visit IngramMicro.com. SOURCE HYCU, Inc. Related Links http://www.hycu.com BOSTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- IFM Therapeutics (IFM), a privately-held biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies that modulate novel targets in the innate immune system, announced today the completion of the previously-announced acquisition of its subsidiary, IFM Tre, by Novartis. IFM received $310 million in upfront payments concurrent with the close of the agreement, and is eligible for up to $1.265 billion in milestone payments. The transaction awarded Novartis full rights to IFM Tre's portfolio of NLPR3 antagonists, consisting of one clinical and two preclinical programs: IFM-2427, a first-in-class, clinical stage systemic antagonist for an array of chronic inflammatory and fibrotic disorders, including atherosclerosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; preclinical gut-directed molecules for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease; and preclinical central nervous system-penetrant molecules. About IFM Therapeutics IFM Therapeutics (IFM) is a privately held biopharmaceutical company based in Boston, Massachusetts. The Company was founded by an international group of preeminent scientists and physicians following the sale of IFM Therapeutics, Inc. (originally founded by Gary D. Glick and Atlas Venture) to Bristol-Myers Squibb. IFM's team has discovered and developed small molecules that modulate novel targets in the innate immune system as next-generation therapies for cancer, auto-immunity, and inflammatory disorders. In addition to IFM Tre, IFM owns and operates IFM Due, a subsidiary company launched in February 2019 that is developing small-molecule antagonists and inhibitors targeting aberrant inflammatory responses of the innate immune system triggered by the cGAS-STING pathway, which is believed to underlie a variety of serious diseases. For more information, please visit www.ifmthera.com. SOURCE IFM Therapeutics Related Links http://www.ifmthera.com Phillips was born with a birth defect that stunted growth in his leg, leading to a partial amputation when he was only 14 years old. As a child, he was taunted and bullied by his peers. After surviving a nearly fatal bout with rheumatic fever, Phillips struggled academically and was held back a year in school. He barely made it to college, where he was a prankster, favoring mischief over studying. Nothing about his life led anyone to believe what was to come: that this same man would one day be a titan in the textile industry, entertain sitting presidents, strategize with international leaders and even befriend the Dalai Lama. That's the story Bogest wanted to tell, but it didn't come easily, as Phillips was initially reticent to open up about his journey. He finally consented when he realized it could inspire others in their hour of struggle. "I'm willing to share my story with you, but only if it could help others find success in their stories," he told Bogest. "I wouldn't want them to look at my life and feel like they had to own a business or become an ambassador in order to be successful. To me, success means going to sleep at night thinking about what happened that day and feeling satisfied that you have done all you could do." Phillips' biography isn't just an account of one man overcoming huge odds. His journey also holds out great hope for a more unified America. Instead of focusing on the differences that divide us, Phillips chooses to emphasize the things that bring us together. His courageous story helps readers see that Americans share the same struggles and dreams. After building the family textile business that he inherited from his father, Phillips went on to form the Market Square Partnership and influence the rise of the International Furniture Market, which attracts upwards of 80,000 visitors to High Point, North Carolina twice a year. A lifelong advocate for his home state of North Carolina, Phillips served as North Carolina's secretary of commerce, and later as America's ambassador to Estonia at a pivotal time, during the first international cyberwar initiated by Russia on Estonia. All of these experiences shaped him, teaching him hard-earned business and leadership lessons that he eagerly shares with readers within the book. At the same time, Phillips urges fellow Americans to embrace the core values that have unified us as a nation for more than two centuriesand that can unify us again: unwavering perseverance, a tireless work ethic and genuine relationship-building that crosses political lines. It is Bogest's and Phillips' hope that Come On, America will not only inspire a divided country to pull itself up by its bootstraps in these divisive times, but assure readers that even the greatest odds or most debilitating handicaps cannot keep them from success. "My hope," writes Bogest, "is that as you're inspired by Dave Phillips's life, . . . you will discover your path to success and allow it to take you to your next opportunity, and the next, and the next." About Dave Phillips: Despite facing numerous physical challenges early in life, S. Davis (Dave) Phillips turned those obstacles into opportunities, and he approaches each day with courage and determination. This attitude, along with his business acumen and his concern for others, has led him to many faraway places and allowed him to work with national and international leaders as a former United States ambassador to Estonia, past secretary of commerce for his home state of North Carolina and chairman of the 1999 Special Olympics World Games. He is the recipient of numerous awards, but his most treasured one is the Choate Seal, which was first given to John F. Kennedy. Phillips' strategic investments helped shape the International Furniture Market, which brings 80,000 visitors to High Point, North Carolina twice a year. He has sold three of his companies to companies on the New York Stock Exchange. Today, he lives in North Carolina, where he continues to be an influencer, an admired leader, and a successful businessman. About Mary Bogest: Mary Bogest grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and graduated from the University of Iowa. Mary and her late husband, Stanley, started out working in the motion picture industry in New York. Now a resident of High Point, North Carolina with her two dogs, Juliette and Josie, Mary has a popular newspaper column, "About Town," that is featured every Sunday in The High Point Enterprise. She has received innumerable awards, honors and honorary civic memberships for her writing, which highlights community needs, events, and eminent and extraordinary individuals. For media requests or interview inquiries for Dave Phillips or Mary Bogest, please contact: Morgan Canclini-Mitchell two|pr [email protected] (615) 933-8570 SOURCE Mary Bogest; Dave Phillips Related Links https://comeonamericabook.com VANCOUVER, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - International Tower Hill Mines Ltd. (the "Company") - (TSX: ITH) (NYSE American: THM) today announced that it has filed its unaudited first quarter Financial Statements and associated Management Discussion and Analysis and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three-month period ended March 31, 2019. As of March 31, 2019, the Company had working capital of $9.3 million. Shareholders can obtain copies of the Company's unaudited first quarter Financial Statements and associated Management Discussion and Analysis and Form 10-Q on SEDAR at: www.sedar.com, EDGAR at www.sec.gov and on the Company's website at: www.ithmines.com. The Company will also provide hard copies of these documents, free of charge, to shareholders who request a copy directly from the Company. About International Tower Hill Mines Ltd. International Tower Hill Mines Ltd. controls 100% of the Livengood Gold Project located along the paved Elliott Highway, 70 miles north of Fairbanks, Alaska. On behalf of International Tower Hill Mines Ltd. (signed) Karl L. Hanneman Chief Executive Officer This news release is not, and is not to be construed in any way as, an offer to buy or sell securities in the United States. SOURCE International Tower Hill Mines Ltd. Related Links http://www.towerhillmines.com EMERYVILLE, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- A federal district court in Delaware has ruled in favor of f'real foods a designer, maker and marketer of blended frozen beverages across the United States and Canada by finding three of f'real's self-cleaning blender patents were infringed upon by defendants, Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc. and Hershey Creamery Company. The jury rejected challenges to the validity of f'real's patents and awarded f'real $3.2 million in compensatory patent damages. Four previous attempts by Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc. to invalidate f'real's self-cleaning blender patents at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office were also unsuccessful. f'real launched its self-cleaning blender in 2003, providing consumers with the ability to quickly prepare their own milkshakes and smoothies, while offering operators the convenience of automatic sanitization. Since its inception, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has awarded the company 16 U.S. patents for its innovative self-serve blender technologies. Today, f'real's products are sold at more than 19,000 locations across the United States and Canada, including convenience stores, colleges, universities and military bases. According to Bloomberg News, the packaged milkshake market is expected to grow to $2.7 billion by 2022. f'real brought its Delaware patent enforcement action in 2014 asserting infringement of three f'real self-cleaning blender patents (i.e., U.S. Patent Nos. 7,520,662; 7,144,150 and 7,520,658). The Hamilton Beach blenders found to infringe are model numbers MIC2000, BIC2000, BIC3000-DQ and IMI2000. f'real intends to seek a permanent injunction against further use of the infringing blenders, including a recall of current competitive blenders infringing on its patents. "f'real's invention of the self-cleaning blender created the self-serve milkshake market we know today," said Dinsh Guzdar, President of f'real. "The jury's verdict re-affirms the validity and strength of f'real's patents. f'real and Rich's take intellectual property seriously and we will vigorously enforce our IP and protect our patents from any future infringement." Legal firms Sideman & Bancroft LLP, San Francisco, and Morris Nichols Arsht & Tunnell, Delaware, represented f'real in this case. About f'real foods Established in 1998, f'real foods designs, sells and markets blended frozen beverages in more than 19,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada including convenience stores, military bases and colleges & universities. The patented in-store blending systems blends delicious and authentic milkshakes, smoothies and frozen coffee products at the touch of a button in under a minute! As the #1 frozen novelty offering in convenience stores, f'real's success can be attributed to continued innovation in the category and quality products. f'real foods is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rich Products Corporation and is based in Emeryville, CA. For more information, visit freal.com. SOURCE f'real foods Related Links https://www.freal.com WASHINGTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Students from Kansas will have an opportunity this week to speak with a NASA astronaut aboard the International Space Station who also hails from the Sunflower State. The Earth-to-space call will air live on NASA television and the agency's website. Nick Hague will answer questions from local students at 10 a.m. EDT Friday, May 10, at the Cosmosphere, 1100 North Plum St., Hutchinson. The space museum is hosting the event in celebration of Hague, whose hometown is Hoxie, Kansas. Media interested in covering the event should contact Carla Stanfield at [email protected] or 620-665-9334. Linking students directly to astronauts aboard the space station provides unique, authentic experiences designed to enhance student learning, performance and interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Astronauts living in space on the orbiting laboratory communicate with NASA's Mission Control Center in Houston 24 hours a day through the Space Network's Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS). Follow the astronauts on social media at: https://www.twitter.com/NASA_astronauts See videos and lesson plans highlighting research on the International Space Station at: https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation SOURCE NASA Related Links http://www.nasa.gov WE Day Illinois will stream live at 9:30 a.m. CDT today at we.org/watchweday WE Day Illinois is free to students thanks to partners led by Title Sponsor The Allstate Foundation Background information, photos and more is available in the Electronic Press Kit CHICAGO, IL, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Today, WE Day Illinois returns to the Allstate Arena to celebrate young people committed to making a difference. Bringing together over 15,000 students and teachers from across the state who've created a lasting difference in their local and global communities. The inspiring youth empowerment event features renowned speakers, innovative thought leaders and dynamic performers including WE co-founders and international activists, Craig Kielburger and Marc Kielburger, co-hosts Karan Brar, Miles Brown, Bailee Madison and Marcus Scribner, alongside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Allstate Foundation Good Starts Young Ambassador Monique Coleman, Rupi Kaur, Elaine Welteroth and more. "I'm so encouraged by the young people at WE Day Illinois who know they're never too young to make a difference, their positive energy is so special," says actress, producer and advocate, Bailee Madison. "Today, we celebrate a community coming together to make the world a better place and I'm grateful to be a part of something huge that inspires people to do good." Students in attendance at WE Day Illinois didn't buy a ticket. They earned their way by taking action on one local and one global cause of their choice. More than a one-day event, WE Day is connected to the free, yearlong program WE Schools. Designed to enhance a school or community's existing social initiatives or spark new ones, WE Schools provides participants with curriculum, educational resources and action campaigns, encouraging students to further their curricular learning and develop life skills to succeed beyond the classroom. "WE Day celebrates the 225,000 Illinois students working to eradicate bullying, hunger, pollution and other societal problems. We need to fuel their passion and drive so young people can help us build a better world." said Tom Wilson, Allstate's Chair, President and Chief Executive Officer. In the 2017/2018 school year, over 850 schools and youth groups across Illinois improved the world through WE Schools, volunteering over 685,000 hours and raising more than $550,000 in support of over 385 global and local causes including homelessness, food security, access to education and the environment. Speakers and performers at WE Day Illinois will energize the crowd through a day filled with powerful educational speeches, inspirational moments and empowering performances. A few must-see highlights include: NBA's All-Time Leading Scorer, New York Times best-selling author and columnist, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar , empowers youth to break down barriers and move past obstacles to create the change you want to see in the world. best-selling author and columnist, , empowers youth to break down barriers and move past obstacles to create the change you want to see in the world. Poet, artist and performer Rupi Kaur performs a spoken word piece Broken English performs a spoken word piece Recording artist and songwriter, Bishop Briggs performs her hits The Way I Do and River "As we celebrate another year of creating lasting change, I'm thrilled to be a part of WE Day Illinois to recognize and applaud the work of the thousands of incredible young leaders. Each student and teacher has challenged themselves to give back in remarkable ways and we are honored to provide them with the tools to achieve their yearlong social action goals," said Craig Kielburger, co-founder of WE. "From tackling the stigma surrounding mental health to fundraising to improve access to clean water in overseas communities, today's young change-makers are more fearless than ever when it comes to taking action on timely issues. Their unwavering commitment to doing good never ceases to inspire me and all of us here today to support them." The WE Day inspiration continues beyond the day through WE Day Connect , a free 90-minute interactive online event powered by Microsoft and The Allstate Foundation . Transcending geographical barriers, WE Day Connect unites tens of thousands of students and educators from across the globe to celebrate and learn from one another's service actions. WE Day Connect takes place on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 1 p.m. ET/ 10 a.m. PT. Visit WE.org/wedayconnect to learn more. About WE WE Day is part of WEa family of organizations that makes doing good, doable. WE is made up of WE Charity, empowering domestic and international change; ME to WE, a social enterprise that creates socially conscious products and experiences to help support the charity; and WE Day, filling stadiums around the world with the greatest celebration of social good. WE Charity was founded in 1995 by then 12-year-old Craig Kielburger with a mission to fight child labor. WE since grown and evolved to address the root cause of child labor, extreme poverty. In the past 24 years, WE programs have provided over 1 million people with clean water, built 1,500 schools and schoolrooms overseas, and empowered more than 200,000 children with access to education. WE enables youth and families to better the worldsupporting more than 7,200 local and global causes by volunteering millions of hours of service, shopping daily with an impact, and raising millions of dollars that directly benefit their local communities and the world. Join the movement today at WE.org . Stay connected on the latest news and updates on WE Day: #WEday | @WEmovement | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Media Centre About The Allstate Foundation www.AllstateFoundation.org SOURCE WE Charity Related Links http://we.org/ NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Kryon, leading robotic process automation (RPA) solution provider known for its business-centric approach and its unique full-cycle AI-based automation innovations, today announced the launch of the global Kryon Partner Program, created to build the framework for joint collaboration with exclusive partners worldwide to expand sales of its innovative RPA solutions. Partners signing up for the partner program will be able to fulfill their customers' automation needs with Kryon's superior RPA platform, creating high business impact with minimal investment. In order to support the expansion, Kryon has brought Jim O'Gara on board as Vice President, Global Channels. Mr. O'Gara has over 20 years of experience growing sales, business development and strategic alliances for well known global enterprise companies, such as Apple, HP, Informix, AltaVista, Ivanti and SugarCRM. "Under Jim's leadership, Kryon will be recruiting partners, who are committed to the digital transformation era, those who recognize the explosive growth and value of the RPA market, and want to work with a best-in-class solution provider like Kryon to drive new levels of enterprise automation to the market," said Richard French, Chief Revenue Officer at Kryon. The Kryon Channel Partner Program comprises four Levels; Gold, Silver, Bronze and Referral. Each level provides unique benefits matched to the partners' annual sales and certification requirements. The program offers a wide range of sales and training development courses for partners to rapidly achieve competency and certification in Kryon's market-leading solution. Competitive discounts will be tied to annual product revenue achievements. Other benefits provided to Kryon partners include: Increased sales and execution plans that help drive greater awareness and pipeline development Participation in deal registration Dedicated Kryon channel manager Professional sales & marketing support Free access to the Kryon Academy, Kryon's online and classroom training and certification portal Access to the Kryon Partner Portal, providing a wealth of resources on the industry, competitive positioning, presentation templates, use cases and testimonials that can be used in on-going sales campaigns Kryon's partner ecosystem works with and supports a wide variety of partner types to engage customers. Value Added Resellers Advisories and Alliance Partners Systems Integrators Co-Selling Partners Powered by proprietary AI technology, Kryon's end-to-end automation solutions maximizes returns, cuts overhead costs and accelerates implementation time by up to 80%. Best known for its Kryon Process DiscoveryTM tool, Kryon can automatically generate a comprehensive understanding of business processes, evaluates them and then recommends which ones to automate, enabling companies to perform tasks at a higher level of proficiency while optimizing individual and group effectiveness. To learn more about Kryon and to become a partner, please visit www.kryonsystems.com. ABOUT KRYON: Kryon is a leader in enterprise automation, offering the only platform on the market which encompasses both Process Discovery and Robotic Process Automation (RPA). This end-to-end solution maximizes ROI and cuts implementation time by up to 80%. Powered by proprietary AI technology, Kryon Process Discovery automatically generates a comprehensive picture of business processes, evaluates them and recommends which ones to automate. Kryon offers attended (desktop) RPA, unattended (virtual-machine-based) RPA and a hybrid combination of both. The company's award-winning platform is used by enterprises worldwide, including AIG, American Express, AT&T, Ernst & Young, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, HP, Microsoft, Santander Bank, Singtel Optus, Verizon and Wyndham Hotel Group. Media Contact Chris Thatcher +1-646-430-5161 [email protected] SOURCE Kryon Related Links https://www.kryonsystems.com KT held a five-week, 5G promotional event an AR game where players search for cards with characters from the "Avengers: Endgame" movie - from April 5. Anyone could play the game by downloading the app, dubbed "Catch Heroes" on the Google Play Store (Android) and the Apple App Store (iOS), or using the QR code from the event notice at KT stores across the country. "Our Avengers AR event is the latest effort to offer a fun experience on our new 5G network," said Kim Weon-Kyung, KT's Executive Vice President in charge of the GiGA Service Unit, part of the company's Marketing Group. "We will continue to do our best to show what 5G can do in the new era of super-fast and ultra-reliable connectivity." The special event, jointly conducted with Walt Disney Company Korea, was designed so that participants would help draw a digital map of the areas covered by KT's newly launched 5G network. KT's nationwide 5G service covers the country's most-populated areas, including the capital Seoul and its surrounding metropolitan area, six other metropolitan cities, most of all 85 major cities, 70 large shopping malls and discount stores and 464 college campuses. In KT's Pokemon Go-style AR game, players collected hero cards by spotting icons resembling Marvel's Infinity Stones on their devices, The mission was accomplished by collecting 140 types of hero cards to complete the card book. Participants who completed the mission were eligible for giveaways. Hero cards corresponded to lead characters from "Avengers: Endgame," including Iron Man, Captain Marvel and Thor, as well as the villain Thanos. The cards were hidden in different areas. Only 40 types of cards could be found in areas covered by 5G, helping to confirm the scope of the new technology's availability. When the hero cards were found, they were marked on the "5G Coverage Map" on KT's homepage. KT, Korea's largest 5G service provider, gave an advantage to its 5G subscribers by letting them find hero cards in 5G-covered areas more easily, so that they could complete their card books quicker and win special prizes. A total of 50,000 prizes were given away. Prizes included the limited Iron Man edition of Hyundai's subcompact SUV Kona, travel tickets to Hong Kong Disneyland, the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G, the LG Tromm Styler and the Marvel Bodyfriend Hugchair. The first 1,000 who accomplished the mission were given two tickets each for "Avengers: Endgame," and players who found bonus cards received a variety of prizes, including Starbucks Coffee coupons. KT is the first local carrier providing updated 5G coverage information to the public by offering a visualized map (https://coverage.kt.com) on its corporate website, documenting its 5G-serviced areas across the country, updated regularly by cities and districts. The Korean telecom leader has also exclusively built its next-generation wireless network to cover the country's key transportation routes and plans to expand the coverage to subways and key sites such as public offices and university hospitals. MEDIA CONTACTS For inquiries, please contact our Foreign Media Relations Team at [email protected] ABOUT KT CORP. (KRX: 030200;NYSE: KT) KT Corporation, Korea's largest telecommunications service provider reestablished in 1981 under the Telecommunications Business Act, is leading the era of innovations in the world's most connected country. The company leads the 4th industrial revolution with high speed wire/wireless network and new ICT technology. KT launched the world's first nationwide commercial 5G network on April 3, 2019, after successfully showcasing the world's first trial 5G services at the PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games in February 2018. This is another milestone in KT's continuous efforts to deliver essential products and services as it aspires to be the No.1 ICT Company and People's Company. For more information, please visit our English website at https://corp.kt.com/eng/ SOURCE KT Corp. (All amounts in US dollars, unless otherwise indicated) Q1 2019 Highlights include : Gold production of 105,949 ounces and sales of 107,546 ounces; All-in sustaining costs (AISC) 1 of $927 per ounce of gold sold; of per ounce of gold sold; EBITDA 1 of $38.4 million ; of ; Net income of $3.2 million ; and ; and Cash balance of $65.2 million at March 31, 2019 VANCOUVER, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Leagold Mining Corporation (TSX:LMC;OTCQX:LMCNF) ("Leagold" or the "Company") reports Q1 2019 financial and operating results with consolidated gold production of 105,949 ounces (oz) at AISC of $927 per oz sold, resulting in an AISC margin of $38.0 million. These results generated Q1 2019 earnings from mine operations of $25.6 million and EBITDA of $38.4 million. Table 1: Highlights for Q1 2019 compared to Q4 2018 Three months ended Unit Mar 31, 2019 Dec 31, 2018 Gold production oz 105,949 93,761 Gold sales oz 107,546 90,004 Total revenue $millions ($m) $138.1 $110.3 Earnings from mine operations $m $25.6 $18.1 EBITDA $m $38.4 $13.4 Net income $m $3.2 $1.3 All-in sustaining costs (AISC)1 $/oz sold $927 $962 AISC margin1 $m $38.0 $23.6 Cash balance $m $65.2 $53.0 Gold production in Q1 2019 totalled 105,949 oz and sales were 107,546 oz, representing 13% and 19% increases, respectively, over Q4 2018. Both the Los Filos and Fazenda mines reported strong operating results in Q1 2019, while RDM implemented new power infrastructure and Pilar continued with optimization efforts. With increased revenue and strong cost controls in Q1 2019, Leagold's AISC margin increased by 61% to $38.0 million and earnings from mine operations increased by 41% to $25.6 million compared to Q4 2018. _________________________________ 1 AISC, AISC margin and EBITDA are non-IFRS financial performance measures with no standard meaning under IFRS. AISC includes cash costs, royalties, land access and community payments, and sustaining capital. Table 2: Cost Details for Q1 2019 compared to Q4 2018 ($000s) Three months ended Mar 31, 2019 Dec 31, 2018 Gold revenue 137,695 110,170 Mining costs open pit 16,864 10,411 Mining costs underground 26,289 28,451 Processing costs 35,453 33,595 Site general and administration costs 11,038 10,238 Change in inventory (2,722) (9,593) Other 1,452 1,143 Total cash costs1 88,374 74,245 Land access payments 4,024 3,680 Royalties 1,546 1,133 Sustaining capital1 3,955 5,869 Sustaining capital1 stripping costs 1,809 1,614 Total AISC1 99,708 86,541 AISC margin1 37,987 23,629 Cash costs1 ($/oz sold) 822 825 AISC 1($/oz sold) 927 962 1 Cash costs, sustaining capital, AISC, and AISC margin are non-IFRS financial performance measures with no standard meaning under IFRS. AISC includes cash costs, royalties, land access and community payments, and sustaining capital. Table 3: Mine by Mine Production, Sales and Cost Details for Q1 2019 Los Filos Fazenda RDM Pilar Total Gold production (oz) 64,028 18,675 13,835 9,411 105,949 Gold sales (oz) 65,861 18,927 13,451 9,307 107,546 All-in sustaining costs ($/oz sold)1 797 808 1,419 1,379 927 1 AISC is a non-IFRS financial performance measure with no standard meaning under IFRS. AISC includes cash costs, royalties, land access and community payments, and sustaining capital. At the Los Filos mine complex in Mexico, production of 64,028 oz in Q1 2019 was up 10% over Q4 2018 and 26% over Q1 2018, setting a new quarterly production record since acquisition. AISC of $797 per oz sold was a 10% improvement over Q4 2018 and a 23% improvement over Q1 2018, primarily related to higher sales. Los Filos underground is now producing at over 1,900 tpd with costs below $80 per tonne of ore for the last three quarters, compared to 1,100 tpd at $98 per tonne in Q1 2018. Total tonnes mined and unit mining costs from the open pits were in line with Q4 2018. Heap leach pad improvements included the benefits from the ongoing program of lime addition and solution control, which has successfully maintained the pH of the leach solution and resulted in a reduction of cyanide consumption and a subsequent improvement in gold recovery. Higher grade underground ore continued to be stacked in a separate area to maximize gold extraction and enable a reduced lag time for high-grade solution to report to the pregnant solution pond. These changes allow gold to report directly to the carbon adsorption circuit and is therefore available to be poured within the month it is stacked. At the Fazenda mine in Brazil, Q1 2019 production totalled 18,675 oz, consistent with Q4 2018. AISC of $808 per oz sold was a 13% improvement compared to Q4 2018, reflecting lower mining costs and reduced sustaining capital spending. Leagold focused on optimizing throughput capacity of the plant in Q1 2019 using higher-grade material from both open pit and underground mining. In February 2019, an underground blasting accident occurred at the Fazenda mine involving five employees, two of whom suffered fatal injuries. At the RDM mine in Brazil, Q1 2019 production totalled 13,835 oz as mining rates improved to 58,014 tpd and the mill feed was supplemented by additional ore from low-grade stockpiles. AISC remained high due to reliance on costly diesel power and lower than anticipated recoveries of 80%. The installation of the remaining towers for the powerline was completed in Q1 2019, and on March 30, 2019 power at RDM was switched over from diesel generators to grid power. This is expected to reduce annual power costs and improve mill availability and performance which includes achieving a finer grind size and higher throughput, plus increased gold recovery rates. As operations stabilize following the completion of the powerline project, both production and costs are expected to improve through the remainder of the year. Recovery rates in April improved to 85% and production increased to 6,308 oz for the month. Also during Q1 2019, a three-metre downstream raise and lining on the tailings embankment was completed at RDM. Water in the reservoir continued to accumulate in Q1 2019, and RDM is expected to have sufficient water to support stable and continuous operations through to the start of the next rainy season. At the Pilar mine in Brazil, Q1 2019 production of 9,411 oz reflected lower tonnages transported from the underground mine. The mining contractor at Pilar was replaced due to poor performance and low equipment availabilities, which required plant throughput to be supplemented with low-grade stockpiles and brought down the average grade. Financial Results Leagold reported total revenue of $138.1 million, earnings from mine operations of $25.6 million, and net earnings of $3.2 million in Q1 2019, as detailed in Table 4. Table 4: Leagold's Financial Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 Three months ended $000s Mar 31, 2019 Mar 31, 2018 Total revenue 138,115 68,073 Operating expenses 93,319 49,199 Depreciation and depletion 17,679 7,836 Royalties 1,546 545 Earnings from mine operations 25,571 10,493 Share-based payments 3,738 59 Acquisition and restructuring costs - 1,792 General and administration costs 2,278 1,674 Foreign exchange loss (595) (824) Interest expense on loan facilities 5,687 3,261 Finance and accretion expense 3,202 327 Other income (538) (660) Earnings before taxes 11,799 4,864 Current income tax expense 580 5,112 Deferred income tax expense 8,042 10,506 Net earnings/(loss) 3,177 (10,754) Basic and diluted earnings/(loss) per share 0.01 (0.07) Basic and diluted earnings before taxes per share 0.04 0.03 Supporting Documents Leagold's Q1 2019 financial statements and related MD&A are available on SEDAR and in the Investor Relations section of Leagold's website here. Conference Call A conference call and live webcast will be held on May 8, 2019 at 8am PDT/11am EDT. Participants may dial in to the call using the numbers below (no access code is needed). Toll free Canada/US: 1-800-319-4610 International: +1-604-638-5340 The webcast can be accessed through the following link: http://services.choruscall.ca/links/leagold201905.html The conference call will be available for playback until May 30, 2019 by dialling 1-800-319-6413 (toll free Canada/US) or +1-604-638-9010 (international), quoting access code 3078. The webcast playback will be available on Leagold's website here. About Leagold Mining Corporation Leagold is a mid-tier gold producer with a focus on opportunities in Latin America. The Company is based in Vancouver, Canada and owns four operating gold mines in Mexico and Brazil, along with an expansion opportunity in Mexico and a near-term gold mine restart project in Brazil. Leagold is listed on the TSX under the trading symbol "LMC" and trades on the OTCQX market as "LMCNF". CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release contains "forward looking information" or "forward looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including without limitation, statements related to the anticipated benefits to be derived from the use of grid power. The material factors or assumptions used to develop forward looking information or statements are disclosed throughout this document. Forward looking information and forward looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Leagold to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or forward looking statements, including but not limited to: fluctuations in prices of metals including gold; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, increases in market prices of mining consumables and other risks of the mining industry, as well as those factors discussed in the section entitled "Description of the Business Risk Factors" in Leagold's most recent AIF available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although Leagold has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information or statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information or statements. The Company has and continues to disclose in its Management's Discussion and Analysis and other publicly filed documents, changes to material factors or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements and to the validity of the information, in the period the changes occur. The forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are made as of the date hereof and Leagold disclaims any obligation to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. SOURCE Leagold Mining Corporation ALBANY, New York, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Transparency Market Research (TMR) observes that the global legalized cannabis market holds a myriad of active players. Therefore, the competitive landscape of the market is fairly fragmented. Moreover, the active participation of several players help the global legalized cannabis market to grow at a fast pace. A few names of active companies in the global legalized cannabis market include Aphria Inc., VIVO Cannabis Inc., Wayland group Corp., Aurora Cannabis Inc., and OrganiGram Holdings Inc. These popular companies in the global legalized cannabis market are mainly targeting to acquire strategies such as mergers and acquisitions. Such acquisitions are aimed to boost company's capacity in supplying legalized cannabis products in various countries across the world. However, other renowned companies in the global legalized cannabis market are focusing on launching of recreational brand, which is known as "Peak Leaf". Through launching such product, these companies are aiming to expand the overall product portfolio for legalized cannabis. Additionally, a few companies are making the use of cannabis by producing a line of cannabis-infused beverages. On the other hand, some of the topmost companies are vying strategic partnership with others for producing organic pharma grade legalized cannabis. Request a Sample of Global Legalized Cannabis Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=37865 TMR's experts reveal that the growth in the global legalized cannabis market is projected to occur at a meteoric CAGR of 17.2% during the assessment tenure 2018-2027. The global legalized cannabis market was valued nearly of US$ 19.96 bn in 2018 and is expected to touch the valuation of US$ 81.4 bn in 2027. From the perspective of end-users, the recreational end-use segment accounts for a lion's share of 52.3% in 2018 and is expected to retain its dominance over the forecast period. Rising countries' activities in legalizing cannabis and increasing youth's demographics toward cannabis consumption makes the recreational end-user to dominate the market. Region wise, North America is leading the market due to the increased demand for legalized cannabis for medical use. Request For Multiple Chapters: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=MC&rep_id=37865 Escalating Demand for Legalized Cannabis from Pharmaceutical Industry to Foster Growth Cannabis is commonly known as the most illicit used drug, which has recently gained its popularity in several industries worldwide. Cannabis is mainly a flowering plant belongs to the Cannabaceae family. This popular plant is also known by its several names such as marijuana and hemp. However, the term marijuana is basically used to refer those cannabis which are highly utilized in medicinal and recreational purposes. Various countries worldwide have been legalizing the cannabis use due to its wide range of applications in numerous industries. For instance, in 2018, Canada legalized the acquisition, cultivation, possession, and consumption of marijuana and all its by-products. Therefore, such increasing governments' cannabis legalization activities are propelling expansion in the global legalized cannabis market. Request For Discount On This Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=D&rep_id=37865 Furthermore, cannabis is widely adopted in pharmaceutical industry as it helps in treating sleep disorders, pain, anxiety and other medical conditions. Moreover, the chemical found in legalized cannabis helps in curing epilepsy, neuropsychiatric anxiety, and cancer. This is a crucial factor to drive the growth in the global legalized cannabis market. Along with this, several sensory appealing characteristics of cannabis is also fueling demand in the global legalized cannabis market. Rising Applications of Cannabis in Beauty and Wellness Sector Fillips Market Legalized cannabis application across the beauty and wellness sector is evolving rapidly. Cannabidiol (CBD) is non-psychoactive which has gained an immense popularity in the beauty sector. This oil provides relief from pain and depression as well as exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-acne properties to cure skin abnormalities. Such factors are majorly boosting the global legalized cannabis market. Moreover, legalized cannabis is widely used in color cosmetics such as lip balms and mascara. Thus, soaring demand for the effective skin treatment and rapidly growing personal care industry are also fueling growth in the global legalized cannabis market. Browse Press Release: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/pressrelease/legal-cannabis-medical-market.htm The review is based on a market research report by TMR, titled, "Legalized Cannabis Market (Product Type - Cannabis Herb, Cannabis Resin; Form - Raw, Processed; End Use - Recreational, Medicinal; Compound - THC-Dominant, CBD-Dominant, Balanced THC & CBD) - Global Industry, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast Analysis 2018 - 2027". The segmentation of global legalized cannabis market is based on: End Use Recreational Medicinal Product Type Cannabis Herb Cannabis Resin Form Raw Processed Compound THC-Dominant CBD-Dominant Balanced THC & CBD Region North America Latin America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa Browse Food & Beverages Market Research Reports Popular Research Reports by TMR: Cannabis Extract Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/cannabis-extract-market.html https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/cannabis-extract-market.html Cannabis Drinks Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/cannabis-drinks-market.html https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/cannabis-drinks-market.html Health Ingredients Market: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/health-ingredients-market.html About Us Transparency Market Research is a next-generation market intelligence provider, offering fact-based solutions to business leaders, consultants, and strategy professionals. Our reports are single-point solutions for businesses to grow, evolve, and mature. Our real-time data collection methods along with ability to track more than one million high growth niche products are aligned with your aims. The detailed and proprietary statistical models used by our analysts offer insights for making right decision in the shortest span of time. For organizations that require specific but comprehensive information we offer customized solutions through adhoc reports. These requests are delivered with the perfect combination of right sense of fact-oriented problem solving methodologies and leveraging existing data repositories. TMR believes that unison of solutions for clients-specific problems with right methodology of research is the key to help enterprises reach right decision. Contact Mr. Rohit Bhisey Transparency Market Research State Tower, 90 State Street, Suite 700, Albany NY - 12207 United States Tel: +1-518-618-1030 USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com Research Blog: http://www.europlat.org/ SOURCE Transparency Market Research Finacle FinTech Connect is an ecosystem innovation initiative that brings together banks, FinTechs, and Finacle. Through the program, Finacle identifies promising FinTech solutions from across the world and co-innovates with them to help accelerate innovations for banks. With this Partnership, Lemnisk and Finacle will offer a joint solution that will enable Financial Marketers to improve customer engagement and conversions for their financial institutions through 1:1 personalization and AI-driven channel orchestration. "As banks re-imagine their business and technology landscape to stay relevant in the digital world, collaborating with the FinTech ecosystem has become a key imperative. Through our FinTech Connect program, we are nurturing a collaborative ecosystem involving banks and FinTech startups to accelerate purposeful innovation. Lemnisk is the latest FinTech to join our ecosystem and we look forward to working with them," said Venkatramana Gosavi, Global Head of Sales, Infosys Finacle. "We are pleased to be a Finacle Fintech Connect 2019 Selected Partner. Lemnisk's Customer Data Platform is already powering some of the leading global BFSI enterprises. The Finacle partnership reinforces our CDP offering for banks and accentuates our vision to be a vertical-focused solution provider. Becoming a part of the Finacle program provides us with an opportunity to work with Finacle R&D teams and also helps us in showcasing our platform to Finacle clients over 100 countries. We are looking forward to a highly productive 2019," said Subra Krishnan, CEO, Lemnisk. About Infosys Finacle Finacle is the industry-leading digital banking solution suite from EdgeVerve Systems, a wholly owned product subsidiary of Infosys. Finacle helps traditional and emerging financial institutions drive truly digital transformation to achieve frictionless customer experiences, larger ecosystem play, insightsdriven interactions and ubiquitous automation. Today, banks in over 100 countries rely on Finacle to service more than a billion consumers and 1.3 billion accounts. Finacle solutions address the core banking, omnichannel banking, payments, treasury, origination, liquidity management, Islamic banking, wealth management, analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain requirements of financial institutions to drive business excellence. An assessment of the top 1250 banks in the world reveals that institutions powered by the Finacle Core Banking Solution, on average, enjoy 7.2% points lower costs-to-income ratio than others. To know more, visit www.finacle.com About Lemnisk Lemnisk is an Intelligent and Secure Customer Data Platform built for Banking, Insurance and Financial Services marketers. Marketers leverage Lemnisk to maximize customer engagements and conversions across channels. The key capabilities include: - CDP that uniquely resolves users across different data sources and channels. - Custom data models and algorithms created for Banking, Insurance and other Financial Services. - Intelligent orchestration of each customer's journey based on one's propensity towards a marketing channel and delivers higher engagement. - Hyper-Personalization that creates a unique real-time marketing message and experience for each user across multiple marketing touch-points. To know more, visit www.lemnisk.co Contact: Rahul Thomas Mathew [email protected] Director Marketing +91-70191-82094 SOURCE Lemnisk Related Links http://www.lemnisk.co LOUISVILLE, Ky., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Seven professional women, chosen as this year's Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI) Legacy Award recipients, have each earned a culinary mentoring experience delivered by seven of the organization's distinguished members. Established in 2009 and generously supported by The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, LDEI's Legacy Awards competition is open to women who live within the organization's operational scope of the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and France who have a minimum of four years of industry experience. LDEI is an organization of women leaders in food, fine beverage and hospitality whose mission is education and philanthropy for the good of the global community. These Legacy Award recipients exemplify LDEI's tradition of excellence, career advancement and local community support: Jen Herczeg , Founder/CEO, Philly Food Collaborative and Director of Business Development for Edible Philly Magazine awarded the CULINARY AWARD from Zingerman's Family of Businesses in Ann Arbor, MI. , Founder/CEO, Philly Food Collaborative and Director of Business Development for Edible Philly Magazine awarded the from Family of Businesses in Emme Collins , Owner/Chef Alcove Dining Room and Chef Emme Catering Company awarded the CULINARY AWARD from Comp ere Lapin in New Orleans, LA . , Owner/Chef Alcove Dining Room and Chef Emme Catering Company awarded the from in . Katharine Elder , Owner/Executive Chef, Elderslie Farm awarded the CULINARY AWARD from Welbeck Abbey School of Artisan Food in Nottinghamshire, UK . , Owner/Executive Chef, Elderslie Farm awarded the from in . Robin Epperson-McCarthy , Owner/Winemaker of Saltbird Cellars awarded the BEVERAGE & HOSPITALITY AWARD from Wente Family Estates in Livermore, CA. , Owner/Winemaker of Saltbird Cellars awarded the from in Mara Hanneson , French Wine Scholar and Certified Sommelier awarded the BEVERAGE & HOSPITALITY AWARD from Wente Family Estates in Livermore, CA. , French Wine Scholar and Certified Sommelier awarded the from in Stephanie Schrankel , Certified Sommelier, Seastar Restaurant awarded the WINE AWARD from Okanagan Valley Wineries in British Columbia, Canada . , Certified Sommelier, Seastar Restaurant awarded the from in . Kaley Brammer , Youth Development and Educational Manager, Carnation Farms awarded the FARM TO SEA TO TABLE AND JOURNALISM AWARD from New England Food System in New England. Les Dames d'Escoffier International (LDEI) is a worldwide philanthropic organization of professional women leaders in the fields of food, fine beverage and hospitality. The invitation-only membership, composed of 2,400 women in 42 chapters across the US, Canada, France, the United Kingdom and Mexico, is highly diversified and reflects the multifaceted fields of contemporary gastronomy and hospitality. For more information, visit www.ldei.org. SOURCE Les Dames dEscoffier International (LDEI) Related Links http://www.ldei.org PITTSBURGH, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The United Steelworkers (USW) today said that some 200 locked-out USW Local 9700 members from the ABI aluminum smelter in Becancour, Quebec, drove more than 12 hours to demonstrate at Alcoa's (NYSE: AA) shareholders' meeting today. A delegation of union representatives equipped with shareholders' proxies also attended the meeting to address Alcoa's role in the 16-month lockout of 1,030 workers at the ABI smelter. USW International President Leo W. Gerard pointed out that the lockout has brought no benefits to Alcoa over the last 16 months. "The company's shares have lost half their value. Income losses have been significant, and Alcoa management should be held accountable for choosing the path of confrontation and conflict," Gerard said. "The company must end this lockout at once and negotiate in good faith with its workers for a fair contract." USW Local 9700 President Clement Masse urged Alcoa shareholders to issue a mandate to executives and demand that they resolve the lockout at the bargaining table. "Aluminum smelters that are currently performing well in the market are those that have the ability to add value to raw aluminum production, which is precisely what ABI does," Masse said. "Our smelter is a versatile, leading-edge casting facility with skilled workers who can produce complex alloys and a wide variety of high value-added products." "This is a costly lockout that is depriving Alcoa of one of its largest production capacities at a plant with the lowest labor costs in North America," Masse said. "Yet Alcoa is leaving this multi-billion-dollar asset dormant." "We know there are ways to improve certain aspects of the plant's operation, but these improvements must be pursued in co-operation with the workers, not by trying to shove unilateral changes down workers' throats," Masse said. "Workers are eager to get back to manufacturing quality aluminum, but that process must include a negotiated labor agreement and mutual respect." Assistant to the USW District 5 Director Dominic Lemieux pointed out that ABI, a joint venture between Alcoa, which owns 75 percent, and Rio Tinto, which holds the remaining 25 percent, locked out workers in January 2018, even though the union had agreed to pursue pension plan changes to address issues raised by the company and its shareholders. "Once this important change was accepted, Alcoa and Rio Tinto still opted to implement a lockout rather than pursue a negotiated settlement," Lemieux said. "Since then, the company has only made things worse by introducing new demands for concessions while rejecting further negotiations or arbitration." "We are here today because we believe shareholders must demand action from management to restore these workers to their jobs, beginning with a return to good faith negotiations," Lemieux said. "It costs nothing to show respect for workers, but 16 months later, shareholders are paying dearly for the company's mismanagement at ABI." The USW represents 850,000 men and women employed in manufacturing, metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in public sector and service occupations. More information, contact: Clairandree Cauchy (Montreal) 514-774-4001; [email protected] Tony Montana (Pittsburgh) 412-562-2592; [email protected] Bob Gallagher (Toronto) 416-544-5966; [email protected] SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW) Related Links http://www.usw.org NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Launching today, Color&Co is the future of at-home hair color, and a new brand from L'Oreal, the global beauty leader with a century-long history of hair color innovation. Through a truly personalized experience, Color&Co clients are able to achieve exceptional at-home color results, supported by on-demand colorist consultation and expert advice. With a unique combination of advanced technology and human expertise, Color&Co represents an entirely new affordable offering to serve the $1.4 billion at-home hair color market.* "We saw an opportunity to reinvent the at-home hair color experience," says Color&Co General Manager Olivier Blayac. "We knew that up to 70% of at-home color users don't know exactly what hair color works for them and worry about unpredictable color results. We wanted to fix that problem. We drew upon L'Oreal's scientific heritage and its history in the salon business to deliver an exceptional at-home color experience guided by expert stylists. With stunning results, Color&Co brings true personalization straight to your door." With a personalized formula specially mixed for each individual client, Color&Co promises exceptional color and near limitless possibilities. The Color&Co Experience. How it works: Step 1: Get a personalized consultation from the comfort of your own home. The Color&Co experience begins with a visit to its website, where you can receive a live video consultation from an independent, licensed professional colorist, who will talk to you about your hair type and color goals. This in-depth analysis allows colorists to understand each client's unique hair qualities, including length, texture, and overall health. Clients who prefer to forego the live experience can achieve personalized results by responding to a highly accurate questionnaire. The Color&Co experience begins with a visit to its website, where you can receive a live video consultation from an independent, licensed professional colorist, who will talk to you about your hair type and color goals. This in-depth analysis allows colorists to understand each client's unique hair qualities, including length, texture, and overall health. Clients who prefer to forego the live experience can achieve personalized results by responding to a highly accurate questionnaire. Step 2: Co-create your own personalized hair color. Color&Co analyzes your unique hair profile and desired results, then selects the base color and adjusts depth & tone to create a unique custom blend. Once your personalized color is determined, the details can be kept on file for easy re-ordering; a subscription is also available. Color&Co analyzes your unique hair profile and desired results, then selects the base color and adjusts depth & tone to create a unique custom blend. Once your personalized color is determined, the details can be kept on file for easy re-ordering; a subscription is also available. Step 3: Receive your unique Colorbox direct to your door. Within days, your personalized Color&Co Colorbox arrives with a custom-blended formula and personalized application instructions. From the formulation to the personal label, each ColorBox is designed just for you. The results speak for themselves: long-lasting, vibrant color, and nourished, shiny, soft hair. "Beauty consumers are asking us for increasingly personalized experiences, and we saw a real opportunity to innovate in this cornerstone of our business," says Guive Balooch, Vice President of L'Oreal's Technology Incubator, an arm of L'Oreal's Research & Innovation Division. "Hair color results depend on a variety of factors, so it was important to develop highly accurate new technology that could deliver unprecedented at-home shade precision. For the first-time, we are able to offer an almost endless variety of color options for at-home application." Color&Co enlisted top professional stylists from around the country to comprise its expert Color&Co Collectivelicensed salon colorists who are available for real-time video consultation with clients. This community provides independent stylists with a flexible opportunity to supplement their incomes and reach new clients across the U.S. The Color&Co Collective is growing and welcomes interested hair professionals to join. "I'm in the salon four days a week, so I take consultations either in between clients or on my days off," says Kari Jefferson, a member of the Color&Co Collective from Houston, Texas. "The program is super flexible and has offered me the financial freedom that I need." Color&Co's Single-Process and Premium Colorboxes start at $19.90 with the option to sign up for a recurring subscription service via the Color&Co website. To receive a Color&Co consultation or learn more about the Color&Co Collective, visit colorandco.com or follow on Instagram or Twitter . *According to Nielsen's 2018 report on the women's home hair color market Media contact: Factory PR [email protected] SOURCE Color&Co Related Links https://www.colorandco.com NEDC Announces 800th Baby Celebration NEWS PROVIDED BY National Embryo Donation Center May 8, 2019 KNOXVILLE, Tenn., May 8, 2019 /Christian Newswire/ -- The National Embryo Donation Center will host a celebration Saturday, June 8 to mark a special milestone. Earlier this year, Sean and Liz Baley welcomed Annaliese into the world. She was the 800th successful birth to come about as a result of the NEDC's embryo donation and adoption program. EVENT DETAILS WHAT: NEDC 800th Baby Celebration WHEN: Saturday, June 8 from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm WHERE: Ijams Nature Center, 2915 Island Home Avenue in Knoxville As a way of celebrating Annaliese and all NEDC children, embryo donation and adoption families from across the country will gather on this special day from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville. Between 250 and 300 people are registered to attend. A brief ceremony will be held from approximately 11:00 to 11:30, during which attendees are scheduled to hear from Congressman Tim Burchett, NEDC President & Medical Director Dr. Jeffrey Keenan and Christian Medical & Dental Associations CEO Dr. David Stevens, who was a co-founder of the NEDC. Media coverage of this event is welcome. If possible, journalists should contact NEDC Marketing & Development Director Mark Mellinger (contact info above) in advance to advise of possible coverage plans. Special thanks to these sponsors: The National Fertility Support Center, Bank of Tennessee, Bethany Christian Services of East Tennessee and Chick-fil-A of West Knoxville. ABOUT THE NEDC Since opening in 2003, the faith-based National Embryo Donation Center has become the leading comprehensive embryo donation program in the U.S., with more births through embryo donation than any other program. Its dual purpose is to protect the lives and dignity of frozen embryos and to help aspiring parents have the families they have longed for via donated embryos. SOURCE National Embryo Donation Center CONTACT: Mark Mellinger, 865-777-2013 ext 3, mmellinger@baby4me.net Related Links www.embryodonation.org PHOENIX, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Since 2017, Make-A-Wish America has received more than $3 million in charitable donations from Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, including a $500,000 contribution this year, with the purpose of granting more life-changing wishes for children with cancer. The generous donations from Bristol-Myers Squibb over the past few years have enabled wish kids to experience the hope and healing that comes with a wish come true, like three-year-old Maya, whose wish to go to a warm beach with her family was recently granted. For Maya, even after many routine treatments, battling her illness could sometimes be harder than expected. While on her wish, Maya's entire family escaped the hardships of having a child with a critical illness and had the chance to focus on one of the most important things to Maya; spending quality time as a family. "We often hear from wish kids who are now adults that the wish helped them to build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight their critical illness," said Richard Davis, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish America. "The contribution from Bristol-Myers Squibb will have an enduring impact on wish kids by helping them replace fear with confidence, anxiety with hope and sadness with joy." "Make-A-Wish understands the power of hope and a wish come true for a child with cancer as well as the child's family," said Adam Lenkowsky, head, US Oncology, Bristol-Myers Squibb. "We continue to be inspired by the passion of Make-A-Wish, and are proud to support their work to help children affected by critical illnesses and their families." As a nonprofit receiving no government funding, Make-A-Wish relies on supporters like Bristol-Myers Squibb, combined with the efforts of other corporate and individual donors, to make these impactful wishes possible. To learn more and find out how you can get involved, visit wish.org. About Make-A-Wish Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. We seek to bring every eligible child's wish to life because a wish is an integral part of a child's treatment journey. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight their illness. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, Make-A-Wish is the world's leading children's wish-granting organization, serving children in every community in the United States and in more than 50 countries worldwide. Together, generous donors, supporters, staff and nearly 40,000 volunteers across the U.S., grant a wish every 34 minutes, on average, somewhere in the country. Since 1980, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 315,000 wishes to children in the U.S. and its territories; more than 15,600 in 2018 alone. For more information about Make-A-Wish America, visit wish.org. SOURCE Make-A-Wish Related Links https://wish.org PORTLAND, Maine, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Martin's Point Health Care will donate $20,000 to the University of Southern Maine's Student Emergency Fund this month. The gift was recently clinched when the students of the USM Class of 2019 met a "Pay It Forward" challenge from Martin's Point to raise $2,019 for the Fund as their class gift. Launched in January 2019, the Student Emergency Fund assists students who face unexpected financial obstacles that would otherwise force them to disrupt their studies. "So many of our students are financially fragile, and an unexpected car repair, an out-of-state funeral or any other unforeseen expense can cause them to drop out of college," said USM President, Glenn Cummings. Inspired by the Martin's Point challenge, USM seniors rallied to "pay it forward," collecting more than double the amount needed to unlock the Martin's Point match. They, along with the USM Foundation, members of the USM community and Martin's Point have donated over $33,000 to the Fund to date. "At Martin's Point, we believe that supporting access to a high-quality education fits with our mission to create a healthy community. Over the past few years, we have focused on deepening our relationship with USM through student internships, job shadow days, Board participation, and sponsorships," said Dr. David Howes, President and CEO of Martin's Point Health Care. "Working with the Class of 2019 to build up this Student Emergency Fund was a natural way for us to directly help students while strengthening our partnership even further." "I am so grateful to Martin's Point and our graduating class for their generosity in support of USM's Student Emergency Fund," added USM President, Glenn Cummings. "The Fund will now help more students get through these unexpected crises, enabling them to continue on to a successful conclusion of their college careers." About Martin's Point Health Care: Martin's Point Health Care is a not-for-profit organization providing primary and specialty health care and health insurance plans. They operate seven health care centers and offer Medicare Advantage plans in Maine and New Hampshire and offer TRICARE insurance plans in northern New England, New York, and Pennsylvania. Visit them at www.MartinsPoint.org. About USM: Situated in Maine's economic and cultural center, the University of Southern Maine (USM) is a public university with 8,000 undergraduate and graduate students taking courses online and at campuses in Portland, Gorham and Lewiston-Auburn. Known for its academic excellence, student focus and engagement with the community, USM provides students with hands-on experience that complements classroom learning and leads to employment opportunities in one of the nation's most desirable places to live. SOURCE Martin's Point Health Care Related Links martinspoint.org HONOLULU, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Matson, Inc. ("Matson" or the "Company") (NYSE: MATX), a leading U.S. carrier in the Pacific, today reported net income of $12.5 million, or $0.29 per diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. Net income for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 was $14.2 million, or $0.33 per diluted share. Consolidated revenue for the first quarter 2019 was $532.4 million compared with $511.4 million for the first quarter 2018. Matt Cox, Matson's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "We are off to a solid start for the year with Ocean Transportation operating income coming in as expected with a number of positive and negative factors, and Logistics posting stronger-than-expected operating income. Within Ocean Transportation, we saw continued strong demand in our China service and steady performance in SSAT, but we also faced significant weather-related issues that primarily affected our Hawaii service. In our Logistics segment, we performed exceptionally well with positive contributions across all service lines." Mr. Cox added, "As a result of the first quarter performance, we are raising our outlook for consolidated operating income in 2019. In Logistics, we expect full year operating income to be moderately higher than the level achieved in 2018. For Ocean Transportation, we are maintaining our prior full year operating income outlook and expect a higher contribution from Alaska, offset by lower contributions from our China service and at SSAT, both of which are coming off exceptionally strong years." First Quarter 2019 Discussion and Outlook for 2019 Ocean Transportation: The Company's container volume in the Hawaii service in the first quarter 2019 was 2.2 percent lower year-over-year primarily due to one less westbound sailing and weather-related impacts. The Hawaii economy continues to show economic growth, supported primarily by healthy tourism activity and low unemployment. The Company expects volume in 2019 to approximate the level achieved in 2018, reflecting modest economic growth in Hawaii and stable market share. In China, the Company's container volume in the first quarter 2019 was 16.0 percent higher year-over-year largely due to one additional sailing and stronger volume post Lunar New Year. Matson continued to realize a sizeable rate premium in the first quarter 2019 and achieved average freight rates modestly higher than the first quarter 2018. For 2019, the Company expects volume to approximate the exceptional level achieved in 2018 and expects average freight rates to approach the levels achieved in 2018. In Guam, the Company's container volume in the first quarter 2019 was higher on a year-over-year basis primarily due to typhoon relief-related volume. For 2019, the Company expects modestly lower volume as the highly competitive environment remains. In Alaska, the Company's container volume for the first quarter 2019 was 5.7 percent lower year-over-year, primarily due to a decrease in northbound volume mainly related to the dry-docking of a competitor's vessel in the year ago period and one less northbound sailing. For 2019, the Company expects volume to be modestly higher than the level achieved in 2018 with higher northbound volume supported by improving economic conditions in Alaska and higher southbound seafood-related volume due to stronger seafood harvest levels than in 2018. The contribution in the first quarter 2019 from the Company's SSAT joint venture investment was $2.0 million lower than the first quarter 2018 due primarily to the absence of favorable one-time items in the year ago period. For 2019, the Company expects the contribution from SSAT to be lower as a result of lower lift volume coming off an exceptionally strong lift volume level in 2018. As a result of the first quarter performance and the outlook trends noted above, the Company expects full year 2019 Ocean Transportation operating income to approximate the $131.1 million achieved in 2018 after taking into account a full year net operating expense impact of $7.2 million associated with the sale and leaseback of MV Maunalei. In the second quarter 2019, the Company expects Ocean Transportation operating income to be moderately lower than the level achieved in the second quarter 2018. Logistics: In the first quarter 2019, operating income for the Company's Logistics segment was $3.9 million higher compared to the operating income achieved in the first quarter 2018 due to improved performance across all of the service lines. For 2019, the Company expects Logistics operating income to be moderately higher than the level achieved in 2018 of $32.7 million. In the second quarter 2019, the Company expects operating income to be modestly higher than the level achieved in the second quarter 2018. Depreciation and Amortization: For the full year 2019, the Company expects depreciation and amortization expense to be approximately $130 million, inclusive of dry-docking amortization of approximately $35 million. EBITDA: While the Company expects net income in 2019 to decline year-over-year, we expect EBITDA in 2019 to be approximately $288 million, which is higher than the level achieved in 2018 after taking into account the full year impact in 2018 of the $12.0 million of lease expense related to the sale and leaseback of MV Maunalei. Other Income (Expense): The Company expects full year 2019 other income (expense) to be approximately $2.7 million in income, which is attributable to other component costs related to the Company's pension and post-retirement plans. Interest Expense: The Company expects interest expense for the full year 2019 to be approximately $25 million. Income Taxes: In the first quarter 2019, the Company's effective tax rate was 7.4 percent, which includes a favorable non-cash adjustment of $2.9 million related to the reversal of an expense adjustment in 2018 arising from the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. For the full year 2019, the Company expects its effective tax rate to be approximately 26.0 percent, which excludes the aforementioned positive non-cash adjustment of $2.9 million in the first quarter of 2019. Capital and Vessel Dry-docking Expenditures: For the first quarter 2019, the Company made other capital expenditure payments of $13.5 million, capitalized vessel construction expenditures of $20.9 million, and dry-docking payments of $3.2 million. For the full year 2019, the Company expects to make other capital expenditure payments, including maintenance capital expenditures, of approximately $120 million, vessel construction expenditures (including capitalized interest and owner's items) of approximately $215 million, and dry-docking payments of approximately $12 million. Results By Segment Ocean Transportation Three months ended March 31, 2019 compared with 2018 Three Months Ended March 31, (Dollars in millions) 2019 2018 Change Ocean Transportation revenue $ 397.9 $ 379.3 $ 18.6 4.9 % Operating costs and expenses (388.5) (354.8) (33.7) 9.5 % Operating income $ 9.4 $ 24.5 $ (15.1) (61.6) % Operating income margin 2.4 % 6.5 % Volume (Forty-foot equivalent units (FEU), except for automobiles) (1) Hawaii containers 34,900 35,700 (800) (2.2) % Hawaii automobiles 17,000 16,800 200 1.2 % Alaska containers 16,400 17,400 (1,000) (5.7) % China containers 13,800 11,900 1,900 16.0 % Guam containers 5,100 4,900 200 4.1 % Other containers (2) 3,500 3,100 400 12.9 % (1) Approximate volumes included for the period are based on the voyage departure date, but revenue and operating income are adjusted to reflect the percentage of revenue and operating income earned during the reporting period for voyages in transit at the end of each reporting period. (2) Includes containers from services in various islands in Micronesia and the South Pacific, and Okinawa, Japan. Ocean Transportation revenue increased $18.6 million, or 4.9 percent, during the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared with the three months ended March 31, 2018. This increase was primarily due to higher fuel surcharge revenue and higher revenue in China, partially offset by lower container volume in Alaska and Hawaii. On a year-over-year FEU basis, Hawaii container volume decreased 2.2 percent primarily due to one less westbound sailing and weather-related impacts; Alaska volume decreased by 5.7 percent primarily due to lower northbound volume mainly related to the dry-docking of a competitor's vessel in the year ago period and one less sailing; China volume was 16.0 percent higher primarily due to one additional sailing and stronger volume post Lunar New Year; Guam volume was 4.1 percent higher primarily due to typhoon relief-related volume; and Other container volume increased 12.9 percent primarily due to the Japan service. Ocean Transportation operating income decreased $15.1 million, or 61.6 percent, during the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared with the three months ended March 31, 2018. The decrease was primarily due to higher vessel operating costs, including weather-related impacts and MV Maunalei lease expense, higher terminal handling costs and lower container volume in Alaska and Hawaii, partially offset by a higher contribution from the China service. The Company's SSAT terminal joint venture investment contributed $8.5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to a contribution of $10.5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2018. The decrease was primarily attributable to the absence of favorable one-time items in the year ago period. Logistics Three months ended March 31, 2019 compared with 2018 Three Months Ended March 31, (Dollars in millions) 2019 2018 Change Logistics revenue $ 134.5 $ 132.1 $ 2.4 1.8 % Operating costs and expenses (126.4) (127.9) 1.5 (1.2) % Operating income $ 8.1 $ 4.2 $ 3.9 92.9 % Operating income margin 6.0 % 3.2 % Logistics revenue increased $2.4 million, or 1.8 percent, during the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared with the three months ended March 31, 2018. This increase was primarily due to higher freight forwarding revenue. Logistics operating income increased $3.9 million, or 92.9 percent, for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared with the three months ended March 31, 2018. The increase was due primarily to higher contributions from transportation brokerage and freight forwarding. Liquidity, Cash Flows and Capital Allocation Matson's Cash and Cash Equivalents decreased by $4.2 million from $19.6 million at December 31, 2018 to $15.4 million at March 31, 2019. Matson generated net cash from operating activities of $33.4 million during the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to $29.9 million during the three months ended March 31, 2018. Capital expenditures, including capitalized vessel construction expenditures, totaled $34.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared with $70.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2018. Total debt increased by $11.7 million during the three months to $868.1 million as of March 31, 2019, of which $822.9 million was classified as long-term debt. Matson's Net Income and EBITDA were $107.3 million and $284.5 million, respectively, for the twelve months ended March 31, 2019. The ratio of Matson's Net Debt to last twelve months EBITDA was 3.0 as of March 31, 2019. As previously announced, Matson's Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.21 per share payable on June 6, 2019 to all shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 9, 2019. Teleconference and Webcast A conference call is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. EDT when Matt Cox, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Joel Wine, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will discuss Matson's first quarter results. Date of Conference Call: Wednesday, May 8, 2019 Scheduled Time: 4:30 p.m. EDT / 1:30 p.m. PDT / 10:30 a.m. HST Participant Toll Free Dial-In #: 1-877-312-5524 International Dial-In #: 1-253-237-1144 The conference call will be broadcast live along with a slide presentation on the Company's website at www.matson.com, under Investors. A replay of the conference call will be available approximately two hours after the call through May 15, 2019 by dialing 1-855-859-2056 or 1-404-537-3406 and using the conference number 4293279. The slides and audio webcast of the conference call will be archived for one full quarter on the Company's website at www.matson.com, under Investors. About the Company Founded in 1882, Matson (NYSE: MATX) is a leading provider of ocean transportation and logistics services. Matson provides a vital lifeline of ocean freight transportation services to the domestic non-contiguous economies of Hawaii, Alaska, and Guam, and to other island economies in Micronesia. Matson also operates a premium, expedited service from China to Long Beach, California and provides services to Okinawa, Japan and various islands in the South Pacific. The Company's fleet of owned and chartered vessels includes containerships, combination container and roll-on/roll-off ships and various types of barges. Matson Logistics, established in 1987, extends the geographic reach of Matson's ocean transportation network throughout the continental U.S. Its integrated, asset-light logistics services include rail intermodal services, long-haul and regional highway brokerage, warehousing and distribution services, consolidation and freight forwarding services, supply chain management services, and other services. Additional information about the Company is available at www.matson.com. GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation This press release, the Form 8-K and the information to be discussed in the conference call include non-GAAP measures. While Matson reports financial results in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), the Company also considers other non-GAAP measures to evaluate performance, make day-to-day operating decisions, help investors understand our ability to incur and service debt and to make capital expenditures, and to understand period-over-period operating results separate and apart from items that may, or could, have a disproportional positive or negative impact on results in any particular period. These non-GAAP measures include, but are not limited to, Earnings Before Interest, Income Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization ("EBITDA") and Net Debt-to-EBITDA. Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this news release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements," within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including without limitation those statements regarding earnings, net income, operating income, depreciation and amortization including dry-dock amortization, other income (expense), interest expense, profitability and cash flow expectations, fleet renewal progress, fleet deployments, fuel strategy and scrubber program, organic growth opportunities, economic effects of competitors' services, expenses, rate premiums and market conditions in the China service, trends in volumes, economic growth and construction activity in Hawaii, Sand Island terminal upgrades, economic conditions and seafood harvest levels in Alaska, lift volumes at SSAT, timing and amount of SSAT cash distributions, vessel deployments and operating efficiencies, debt leverage levels and effective tax rates. These statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the relevant forward-looking statement, including but not limited to risks and uncertainties relating to regional, national and international economic conditions; new or increased competition or improvements in competitors' service levels; fuel prices, our ability to collect fuel surcharges and/or the cost or limited availability of low-sulfur fuel; delays or cost overruns related to the installation of scrubbers, our relationship with vendors, customers and partners and changes in related agreements; the actions of our competitors; our ability to offer a differentiated service in China for which customers are willing to pay a significant premium; the imposition of tariffs or a change in international trade policies; the ability of the NASSCO shipyard to construct and deliver the Kanaloa Class vessels on the contemplated timeframes; any unanticipated dry-dock or repair expenses; any delays or cost overruns related to the modernization of terminals; consummating and integrating acquisitions; changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; competition and growth rates within the logistics industry; freight levels and increasing costs and availability of truck capacity or alternative means of transporting freight; changes in relationships with existing truck, rail, ocean and air carriers; changes in customer base due to possible consolidation among customers; conditions in the financial markets; changes in our credit profile and our future financial performance; our ability to obtain future debt financings; continuation of the Title XI and CCF programs; the impact of future and pending legislation, including environmental legislation; government regulations and investigations; repeal, substantial amendment or waiver of the Jones Act or its application, or our failure to maintain our status as a United States citizen under the Jones Act; relations with our unions; satisfactory negotiation and renewal of expired collective bargaining agreements without significant disruption to Matson's operations; war, terrorist attacks or other acts of violence; the use of our information technology and communication systems and cybersecurity attacks; and the occurrence of marine accidents, poor weather or natural disasters. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. This release should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our other filings with the SEC through the date of this release, which identify important factors that could affect the forward-looking statements in this release. We do not undertake any obligation to update our forward-looking statements. Investor Relations inquiries: News Media inquiries: Lee Fishman Keoni Wagner Matson, Inc. Matson, Inc. 510.628.4227 510.628.4534 [email protected] [email protected] MATSON, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, (In millions, except per-share amounts) 2019 2018 Operating Revenue: Ocean Transportation $ 397.9 $ 379.3 Logistics 134.5 132.1 Total Operating Revenue 532.4 511.4 Costs and Expenses: Operating costs (467.1) (439.3) Equity in income of Terminal Joint Venture 8.5 10.5 Selling, general and administrative (56.3) (53.9) Total Costs and Expenses (514.9) (482.7) Operating Income 17.5 28.7 Interest expense (4.6) (5.0) Other income (expense), net 0.6 0.8 Income before Income Taxes 13.5 24.5 Income taxes (1.0) (10.3) Net Income $ 12.5 $ 14.2 Basic Earnings Per-Share: $ 0.29 $ 0.33 Diluted Earnings Per-Share: $ 0.29 $ 0.33 Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding: Basic 42.8 42.6 Diluted 43.1 42.9 MATSON, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) March 31, December 31, (In millions) 2019 2018 ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 15.4 $ 19.6 Other current assets 291.2 298.8 Total current assets 306.6 318.4 Long-term Assets: Investment in Terminal Joint Venture 91.3 87.0 Property and equipment, net 1,386.2 1,366.6 Goodwill 327.8 327.8 Intangible assets, net 211.2 214.0 Other long-term assets 353.7 116.6 Total long-term assets 2,370.2 2,112.0 Total assets $ 2,676.8 $ 2,430.4 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities: Current portion of debt $ 45.2 $ 42.1 Other current liabilities 365.9 328.7 Total current liabilities 411.1 370.8 Long-term Liabilities: Long-term debt 822.9 814.3 Deferred income taxes 317.9 312.7 Other long-term liabilities 361.9 177.3 Total long-term liabilities 1,502.7 1,304.3 Total shareholders' equity 763.0 755.3 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 2,676.8 $ 2,430.4 MATSON, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, (In millions) 2019 2018 Cash Flows From Operating Activities: Net income $ 12.5 $ 14.2 Reconciling adjustments: Depreciation and amortization 23.3 23.6 Non-cash operating lease expense 16.7 Deferred income taxes 3.8 6.4 Share-based compensation expense 3.2 2.7 Equity in income of Terminal Joint Venture (8.5) (10.5) Distribution from Terminal Joint Venture 4.2 7.0 Other (0.6) (0.6) Changes in assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable, net 5.8 (14.5) Deferred dry-docking payments (3.2) (4.6) Deferred dry-docking amortization 8.1 9.2 Prepaid expenses and other assets 4.8 8.2 Accounts payable, accruals and other liabilities (20.4) (11.0) Operating lease liabilities (16.7) Other long-term liabilities 0.4 (0.2) Net cash provided by operating activities 33.4 29.9 Cash Flows From Investing Activities: Capitalized vessel construction expenditures (20.9) (57.7) Other capital expenditures (13.5) (13.1) Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment 1.2 1.0 Cash deposits into Capital Construction Fund (13.4) (53.5) Withdrawals from Capital Construction Fund 13.4 53.5 Net cash used in investing activities (33.2) (69.8) Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Repayments of debt and capital leases (8.2) (2.5) Proceeds from revolving credit facility 107.8 117.4 Repayments of revolving credit facility (87.8) (68.4) Proceeds from issuance of capital stock 0.2 Dividends paid (9.1) (8.7) Tax withholding related to net share settlements of restricted stock units (3.1) (4.2) Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (0.4) 33.8 Net Decrease in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash (0.2) (6.1) Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, Beginning of the Period 24.5 19.8 Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, End of the Period $ 24.3 $ 13.7 Reconciliation of Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash, at End of the Period: Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 15.4 $ 13.7 Restricted Cash 8.9 Total Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, End of the Period $ 24.3 $ 13.7 Supplemental Cash Flow Information: Interest paid, net of capitalized interest $ 4.8 $ 5.3 Income tax paid, net of income tax refunds $ (5.4) $ 0.2 Non-cash Information: Capital expenditures included in accounts payable, accruals and other liabilities $ 5.5 $ 0.7 MATSON, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Net Debt to EBITDA and EBITDA Reconciliations (Unaudited) NET DEBT RECONCILIATION March 31, (In millions) 2019 Total Debt: $ 868.1 Less: Cash and cash equivalents (15.4) Net Debt $ 852.7 EBITDA RECONCILIATION Three Months Ended March 31, Last Twelve (In millions) 2019 2018 Change Months Net Income $ 12.5 $ 14.2 $ (1.7) $ 107.3 Add: Income taxes 1.0 10.3 (9.3) 29.4 Add: Interest expense 4.6 5.0 (0.4) 18.3 Add: Depreciation and amortization 23.1 23.4 (0.3) 93.2 Add: Dry-dock amortization 8.1 9.2 (1.1) 36.3 EBITDA (1) $ 49.3 $ 62.1 $ (12.8) $ 284.5 (1) EBITDA is defined as the sum of net income plus income taxes, interest expense and depreciation and amortization (including deferred dry-docking amortization). EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to net income (as determined in accordance with GAAP), as an indicator of our operating performance, or to cash flows from operating activities (as determined in accordance with GAAP) as a measure of liquidity. Our calculation of EBITDA may not be comparable to EBITDA as calculated by other companies, nor is this calculation identical to the EBITDA used by our lenders to determine financial covenant compliance. SOURCE Matson, Inc. Related Links http://matson.com NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- McGraw-Hill announced today that the team charged with planning its post-merger integration with Cengage will be led by Angelo DeGenaro, Chief Information and Operations Officer. DeGenaro, who joined McGraw-Hill in 2015, will lead a cross-functional team of employees that will work with their counterparts at Cengage to plan for the merger of the two companies. The full team making up the Integration Management Office will be formed in the coming weeks. McGraw-Hill announced today that the team charged with planning its post-merger integration with Cengage will be led by Angelo DeGenaro, Chief Information and Operations Officer. Last week, McGraw-Hill and Cengage announced an agreement to combine in an all-stock merger on equal terms. The merger brings together two premier learning companies that will continue to empower students and educators around the world with a wide choice of affordable, engaging course materials and advanced digital platforms to help them succeed throughout a lifetime of learning. It will allow for the continued expansion of initiatives that are reducing costs for U.S. college students, including Inclusive Access programs, which deliver course materials to students on the first day of class at prices that are 50 to 80 percent less than the cost of traditional textbooks. The deal is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close by early 2020. The two organizations anticipate that the new company will be named McGraw Hill. Information about the merger can be found at betterlearningtogether.com/ "Managing this transition and the integration of these two large organizations will be an incredibly complex process," said Nana Banerjee, McGraw-Hill President and CEO. "Angelo's extensive experience in operations and technology, combined with his deep understanding of and passion for our company and its mission, make him perfect for this role. I thank him for his willingness to take up the challenge." DeGenaro will continue to lead McGraw-Hill's Global Technology Services, including infrastructure and operations, architecture, cybersecurity and back-office systems. He also oversees Financial Services, Global Procurement and Global Supply Chain Management, which includes manufacturing services, inventory planning, fulfillment, customer service and order management. Before joining McGraw-Hill, he held senior technology roles at Cigna, Citi and McGraw-Hill Financial. DeGenaro is a member of The Research Board, a New York-based international think tank. He holds a bachelor's degree in Economics from New York University and a Master of Science in telecommunications and computing management from Polytechnic University. The merger of McGraw-Hill and Cengage joins two organizations with complementary missions, capabilities and talent. Both have long-established offices and powerful brands in more than 100 countries and serve educators and students in K-12, Higher Education, English Language Teaching, Professional, Medical and Library Reference markets. Together, the new company will be even better positioned to create new, locally impactful products that use leading educational technology to improve learning experiences and outcomes. The combined company will deliver even greater value to students and educators by expanding access to best-in-class content, enhancing learning experiences through proven digital platforms, strengthening its commitment to providing affordable options and delivering superior experience and value. McGraw-Hill McGraw-Hill is a learning science company that delivers personalized learning experiences that help students, parents, educators and professionals drive results. We focus on educational equity, affordability and learning success to help learners build better lives. Headquartered in New York City, McGraw-Hill has offices across North America, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and South America, and makes its learning solutions for PreK-12, higher education, professionals and others available in more than 75 languages. Visit us at mheducation.com or find us on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn or Twitter . Contact: Tyler Reed McGraw-Hill (646) 766-2951 [email protected] SOURCE McGraw-Hill Related Links http://www.mheducation.com BISMARCK, N.D., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- MDU Resources Group, Inc. (NYSE: MDU) announced that Dennis W. Johnson has been named chair of the board, replacing Harry J. Pearce, who along with William E. McCracken did not stand for re-election during the company's annual stockholder meeting Tuesday. During the meeting, stockholders elected 10 directors to the board, including new director Chenxi Wang. Johnson has been a director on MDU Resources' board since 2001 and had served for the past year as vice chair of the board. Pearce and McCracken did not stand for re-election because MDU Resources' bylaws state that directors are not eligible for election to the board after their 76th birthday. Pearce served on the board of directors for 22 years, including five as independent lead director and 14 as chair. McCracken had served on the board since 2013. "Harry has been an invaluable leader of MDU Resources' Board of Directors," Johnson said. "The company's market cap has grown about 600% during his tenure on the board, and he was instrumental in guiding that growth strategy and in implementing corporate governance best practices. Bill also has provided outstanding leadership on the board, significantly influencing our commitment to growth and the company's strategy on technology and critical cybersecurity efforts. "I look forward, as chair of the board, to ensuring MDU Resources continues to operate with the integrity our investors and communities expect from our company," Johnson said, "and to guiding the strategy that provides the value our shareholders deserve from their investment." Wang was elected to the board by a majority vote of stockholders. She is founder and managing general partner of Rain Capital Fund, LP, a cybersecurity-focused venture fund. Her former jobs include chief strategy officer at Twistlock, a cybersecurity platform; vice president, cloud security and strategy, at CipherCloud, a cloud security software company; and vice president of strategy at Intel Security, a company providing technology security solutions and services. "Chenxi has a significant background in cybersecurity and information technology best practices," said David L. Goodin, president and CEO of MDU Resources. "Her expertise will fill the void left by Bill's retirement, and we are pleased to have her on board." In addition to her general responsibilities on MDU Resources' board of directors, Wang will serve on the board's Audit Committee and Environmental and Sustainability Committee. Wang has a doctorate in computer science from the University of Virginia and a bachelor's degree in computer science from Lock Haven University. MDU Resources Group, Inc., a member of the S&P MidCap 400 index and the S&P High-Yield Dividend Aristocrats index, is Building a Strong America by providing essential products and services through its regulated energy delivery and construction materials and services businesses. For more information about MDU Resources, see the company's website at www.mdu.com or contact the Investor Relations Department at [email protected]. Financial Contact: Jason Vollmer, vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer, 701-530-1755 Media Contact: Laura Lueder, manager of communications and public relations, 701-530-1095 Media Advisory: Photos of Johnson, Pearce, McCracken and Wang may be requested by emailing [email protected]. SOURCE MDU Resources Group, Inc. Related Links http://www.mdu.com PATERSON, N.J., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Fifty-three years ago, one of the most famous triple murder cases of the 1960's was splashed across the headlines the trial of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a professional middleweight boxer, and his friend John Artis for the Lafayette Grill murders. In the early morning of June 17, 1966, Carter and Artis were in the Lafayette Grill in Paterson, New Jersey, when three people were shot and killed. Another man, who was shot through the head, miraculously survived. The state contended that after a night of heavy drinking, Carter and Artis committed these crimes as racial revenge for another tavern killing of a black man by a white assailant earlier that night. Amid swirling controversy and accusations of racism, newspapers clamored for the immediate pardon of the defendants. Bob Dylan wrote a song proclaiming their innocence, and Muhammad Ali protested for their freedom. So convincing was the roar outside of the courtroom that a governor almost pardoned Carter and Artis without a further trial. Now, revealed for the first time, is Lead Detective Chief Vincent De Simone Jr.'s account of the investigation. Media Meddlers (Hybrid Global Publishing) is more than a story of a murder case. It is a story of how celebrities and the media tried to sway public opinion on behalf of two convicted killers. It shares the never before published words of De Simone who lived with the case and the ramifications of the case until his death in 1979. In Media Meddlers, Chief De Simone explains why he became convinced that Carter was the killer. De Simone and his fellow officers were vilified as corrupt, racist cops, and because of laws that forbid detectives to speak about a case while it's still in litigation, he was not able to respond publicly to the accusations. This book, which was brought to light by his son James De Simone, is Chief De Simone's opportunity to tell what really happened. Vincent J. De Simone Jr. served Passaic County, N.J. for thirty-two years, starting as a patrolman in 1947. Prior to being appointed Lieutenant in charge of the homicide squad in 1961, he was a Passaic County detective. Chief De Simone received a Purple Heart for his service in World War II, after being seriously wounded by a sniper's bullet in Germany. SOURCE James De Simone GLEN COVE, N.Y., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Monte Nido & Affiliates - the nation's leading provider of eating disorder treatment for over twenty-three years - announces the opening of Monte Nido Glen Cove on May 8, 2019 in Glen Cove, NY. This residential eating disorder treatment center on the North Shore of Long Island provides programming for adults of all genders for the treatment of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and exercise dependency, as well as co-occurring substance use, trauma and psychiatric presentations. Monte Nido Glen Cove will be Monte Nido & Affiliates fifth program in the state of New York and second residential treatment center nationwide to provide services to all genders upon opening. Upon discharge, clients will have the option to step down to one of Monte Nido & Affiliates' network of day treatment programs, including those located in Manhattan and White Plains, NY. Candy Henderson, MS, Monte Nido & Affiliates Chief Executive Officer reports, "As many as 97,000 Long Islanders has an eating disorder. Our Glen Cove program will be the first to provide Long Island adults of all genders residential treatment for their eating disorder, keeping them closer to home and their families." "For the past several years, we've been asked to expand our program in the Long Island region to accommodate males, and other adult clients that were seeking treatment at our residential Monte Nido program for adult women in Irvington," adds Joel Jahraus, MD, CEDS, FAED, Chief Medical Officer. "As an internal medicine physician that has treated eating disorders for decades, I know how much these services are needed. Our program emphasizes evidence-based treatment as a cornerstone, delivered by a team of recovered professionals that believe in a person's ability to become fully recovered." About Monte Nido & Affiliates Monte Nido & Affiliates is the country's leading eating disorder treatment provider, offering residential and day treatment programs for eating disorders. Founded in 1996, Monte Nido & Affiliates operates twenty-one facilities in seven states, with all residential programs being Joint Commission accredited. Designed for all genders, Monte Nido & Affiliates includes three distinct eating disorder treatment brands: Monte Nido, Oliver-Pyatt Centers and Clementine. To inquire about treatment at one of Monte Nido & Affiliates programs, please contact us here: Monte Nido: 888.228.1253, www.montenido.com Clementine: 855.900.2221, www.clementineprograms.com Oliver-Pyatt Centers, 866.511.4325, www.oliverpyattcenters.com Contact: Greer Findura [email protected] SOURCE Monte Nido & Affiliates NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Museum of Jewish Heritage A Living Memorial to the Holocaust today opened the most comprehensive Holocaust exhibition about Auschwitz ever exhibited in North America. Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. is produced in partnership with the international exhibition firm Musealia and the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum in Poland. The groundbreaking exhibition has been curated by an international team of experts led by historian Dr. Robert Jan van Pelt. It runs through January 3, 2020 in New York City. For the first time, 74 years after the liberation of Auschwitz, a traveling exhibition dedicated to the historical significance of the camp is being presented to a U.S. audience. The exhibition's May 8 opening marks the anniversary of VE Day or Victory in Europe Day, 1945, when the Allies celebrated Nazi Germany's surrender of its armed forces and the end of World War II in Europe. Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. arrives in New York City after the exhibition completed a successful run at Madrid's Arte Canal Exhibition Centre, where it was extended two times, drew more than 600,000 visitors, and was one of the most visited exhibitions in Europe last year. The exhibition explores the dual identity of the camp as a physical locationthe largest documented mass murder site in human historyand as a symbol of the borderless manifestation of hatred and human barbarity. Featuring more than 700 original objects and 400 photographs, mainly from the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum, the New York presentation of the exhibition allows visitors to experience artifacts from more than 20 international museums and institutions on view for the first time in North America, including hundreds of personal itemssuch as suitcases, eyeglasses, and shoesthat belonged to survivors and victims of Auschwitz. Other artifacts include: concrete posts that were part of the fence of the Auschwitz camp; part of an original barrack for prisoners from the Auschwitz III-Monowitz camp; a desk and other possessions of the first and the longest-serving Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Hoss; a gas mask used by the SS; Picasso's Lithograph of Prisoner; and an original German-made Model 2 freight train car used for the deportation of Jews to the ghettos and extermination camps in occupied Poland. Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. traces the development of Nazi ideology and tells the transformation of Auschwitz from an ordinary Polish town known as Oswiecim to the most significant Nazi site of the Holocaustat which ca. 1 million Jews, and tens of thousands of others, were murdered. Victims included Polish political prisoners, Sinti and Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, Jehovah's Witnesses, and those the Nazis deemed "homosexual," "disabled," "criminal," "inferior," or adversarial in countless other ways. In addition, the exhibition contains artifacts that depict the world of the perpetratorsSS men who created and operated the largest of the German Nazi concentration and extermination camps. The Museum of Jewish Heritage has incorporated into the exhibition nearly 100 rare artifacts from its collection that relay the experience of survivors and liberators who found refuge in the greater New York area. These artifacts include: Alfred Kantor's sketchbook and portfolio that contain over 150 original paintings and drawings from Theresienstadt, Auschwitz, and Schwarzheide; the trumpet that musician Louis Bannet (acclaimed as "the Dutch Louis Armstrong") credits for saving his life while he was imprisoned in Auschwitz; visas issued by Chiune Sugihara, a Japanese diplomat in Lithuania often referred to as "Japan's Oskar Schindler"; prisoner registration forms and identification cards; personal correspondence; tickets for passage on the St. Louis; and a rescued Torah scroll from the Bornplatz Synagogue in Hamburg. Also on display from the Museum of Jewish Heritage collection will be Heinrich Himmler's SS helmet and his annotated copy of Hitler's Mein Kampf, as well as an anti-Jewish proclamation issued in 1551 by Ferdinand I that was given to Hermann Goring by German security chief Reinhard Heydrich on the occasion of Goring's birthday. The proclamation required Jews to identify themselves with a "yellow ring" on their clothes. Heydrich noted that, 400 years later, the Nazis were completing Ferdinand's work. These artifacts stand as evidence of a chapter of history that must never be forgotten. Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far away. was conceived of by Musealia and the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum and curated by an international panel of experts, including world-renowned scholars Dr. Robert Jan van Pelt, Dr. Michael Berenbaum, and Paul Salmons, in an unprecedented collaboration with historians and curators at the Research Center at the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum, led by Dr. Piotr Setkiewicz. The Museum of Jewish Heritage A Living Memorial to the Holocaust is located at 36 Battery Place, in Battery Park City in Lower Manhattan. Visit Auschwitz.nyc. To view the full release, ticketing information, and further details about partners and funders, visit https://mjhnyc.org/the-largest-exhibition-on-auschwitz-in-north-america/ SOURCE Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the Holocaust Related Links http://www.mjhnyc.org CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Navy Pier, one of the top-attended destinations in the Midwest, is thrilled to reveal its newly redesigned logo to the public today. Created in partnership with Chicago-based brand strategy and design firm ColorJar, the reinvigorated logo accompanies the Pier's brand refresh, which will be brought to life across the Pier, Chicagoland and the region this month. The new logo design was inspired by public feedback collected by Navy Pier and its research and brand strategy partner Lipman Hearne. The two-year, comprehensive process began in 2017 after the Pier recruited Lipman Hearne to help conduct market research and facilitate a series of focus group sessions and research studies that would inform the Pier's strategic and creative vision. The feedback indicated that based on Navy Pier's bold and exciting new direction, the logo should also exude fun, energy, playfulness, celebration and color in the form of a modern concept, while still incorporating iconic symbols, such as the Ferris wheel and fireworks, in a fresh, evocative way. In late 2018, ColorJar was hired and then charged with producing a compelling design with these values in mind and creating a new logo that would mark the first step in the Pier's brand revolution. "It was paramount to us, as the People's Pier, that the new logo reflects Navy Pier's mission of being a place that inspires discovery and wonder for its nearly 9 million annual guests," said Navy Pier President and CEO Marilynn Gardner. "The fresh, bold design illustrates the strong sense of pride, joy and community that Chicagoans and guests feel towards their Pier, now in its second century. We are thrilled to see these elements unfold through our exciting brand revival and new logo concept, created in partnership with ColorJar." The new logo symbolizes meaningful brand developments and pulls inspiration from the Pier's history and landscapes. The featured colors are inspired by the physical environment of the Pier itself, including the deep blue of Lake Michigan at dusk, magenta of a bright fireworks show and lighter aquamarine blues from the lake in the heart of summer. As part of the larger visual identity system, ColorJar utilized a 1927 photograph of a Navy Pier sign to recommend new typography that will be used on the Pier and throughout digital brand communications. "ColorJar is honored to have partnered with Navy Pier to create its new visual brand identity, designed to help fuel the world-class destination's next 100 years and beyond," said David Gardner, founder of ColorJar. "To design for Navy Pier is to design for Chicago itself, as the Pier is an iconic element of the city's famous skyline. Creating a vibrant and welcoming new identity for an important part of the fabric of Chicago was particularly meaningful." The complete rebrand will be brought to life in phases with the help of Navy Pier's creative agency of record TimeZoneOne and media strategy partner Spurrier Group. Both agencies were enlisted in early 2019 to help integrate the market research into the Pier's upcoming paid media campaigns and share the new brand story with expanded audiences in a meaningful and impactful way. The first phase of the campaign will hit the Chicagoland market this week and regional markets the week of Monday, May 20. The Navy Pier website revamp is also now complete, featuring the new logo, color palette and brand identity throughout. In addition to the rebrand, in 2019, Navy Pier continues to usher in its second century with ongoing Pier-wide redevelopment efforts including a 220-room Hilton hotel with rooftop bar, a marina and more in addition to free, year-round arts and cultural programming designed to inspire, educate and connect communities across the city and globe. For more information, please visit www.navypier.org. LOGOS: Navy Pier | Courtesy of Navy Pier; Design by ColorJar About Navy Pier Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is one of the top-attended nonprofit destinations in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming nearly 9 million guests annually. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases more than 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities and more. The Pier recently celebrated its 100th anniversary with the unveiling of the iconic Centennial Wheel, Polk Bros Park, Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion and Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion. In 2019, Navy Pier continues to usher in its second century with ongoing pier-wide redevelopment efforts including a 220-room Hilton hotel with rooftop bar, a marina and more in addition to free, year-round arts and cultural programming designed to inspire, educate and connect communities across the city and globe. Click here to donate to Navy Pier, a 501(c)(3) organization, in support of free public programs. For more information, visit www.navypier.org. Navy Pier Mission Statement Navy Pier is the People's Pier, Chicago's lakefront treasure, welcoming all and offering dynamic and eclectic experiences through partnerships and programs that inspire discovery and wonder. About ColorJar ColorJar is a Chicago-based brand strategy and design firm that drives business results for brands that obsess over the guest experience. Founded in 2008, ColorJar revitalizes brands at key moments of change and works with some of the nation's most significant brands in hospitality, accommodations, real estate, and cultural destinations. For additional information, visit colorjar.com or contact [email protected]. About Lipman Hearne Lipman Hearne is the nation's leading full service marketing agency serving nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. For over 50 years the firm has helped clients build their reputations, raise funds, recruit participants, and broaden their influence. Lipman Hearne has worked with clients across the country, including the Smithsonian Institution, the University of Chicago, the Nature Conservancy, Caltech, Rotary International, and the American Medical Association. Lipman Hearne became an employee-owned (ESOP) company in 2016. CONTACT Navy Pier | Payal Patel (312) 595-5073 | [email protected] Navy Pier | Anna Schapiro (312) 595-5063 | [email protected] SOURCE Navy Pier Related Links http://www.navypier.org Internet Security Venture demonstrates 10X Growth in Technology Applications TORONTO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Nerds On Site Inc. ("NERDS" or the "Company") (CSE: NERD) (FSE: 3NS.F) (QTCQB: NOSUF), a mobile IT solutions company servicing the SME marketplace, is pleased to provide an update on its investment in Adam Networks ("ADAMNet") headed by David Redekop, a co-founder of Nerds On Site. ADAMnet has developed and launched a novel internet security application. ADAMnet's complete solution is a military grade security service that runs on dedicated hardware with maximum flexibility to provide role-specific policies to devices, tracking them throughout one's network without requiring any endpoint software installation. ADAMnet Highlights: 3500 subscribers 50,000 endpoints to more than 500,000 protected in the last 12 months Proprietary (patent pending) endpoint security protocol All client NERDcare contract implementations incorporate this protocol "There is not a single publicized Internet security threat over the last 30 years that would have been able to succeed if adam:ONE, our total solution, was deployed on the targeted network, said David Redekop, ADAMnet Founder. "This includes Stuxnet, Wannacry, NotPetya, the Ethereum attack, Equifax Breach etc." NERDS provided $1 million CAD (approx.), in the form of debt over the last 4 years. The Company postponed interest payments as the technology was under development in exchange for 20% royalty payable to NERDS. ADAMnet's business has advanced to the point where it has begun debt repayments with interest of 8.0% annually. ADAMnet leadership is active in both the USA and Canada in the effort to execute its aggressive growth strategy. About Adam Networks: ADAMnet created a ZEROTRUST internet traffic filtering application, that once installed allows the client, even without any substantial IT knowledge to take control of the traffic that comes in and out of the home, small or medium office. ADAMnet has recently begun offering a managed solution available to managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security service providers (MSSPs) with a service level agreement (SLA) to ensure high uptime along with the security offering. Team members now include PhD level system engineers, cloud architects, support, sales & marketing teams. About Nerds On Site: Nerds on Site, a company founded in 1995, specializes in providing cost effective, leading edge solutions to Small and Medium sized Enterprise (SME), serving as the complete SME IT solution specialists. Nerds on Site was established in London, Ontario with current annual revenues of approximately $10,000,000 with normalized net earnings of about $100,000.00. The Company services over 12,000 clients per year with a superb 96.5% customer satisfaction rating. Nerd's business model is based on Nerds sub contracts in Canada and a franchise model for USA expansion. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward Looking Statements - Certain information set forth in this material may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws. SOURCE Nerds On Site Inc. Related Links www.nerdsonsite.com CHICAGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Barchart, a leading provider of data and analytics to U.S. agribusinesses, is releasing cmdtyView 2.0, the latest evolution in the world's most powerful commodity trading platform. All cmdtyView Pro users will automatically get access to all of the new data, tools, and features that are solely focused on helping commodity buyers make better decisions and get better pricing. "Our flagship data platform, cmdtyView provides users with access to global commodities pricing, along with the comprehensive features, functionality, and news that matters to commodity professionals," says Barchart's CEO Mark Haraburda. "The cmdtyView 2.0 release takes this to another level with the integration of physical grain buying, global spot pricing for grain and oilseeds, completely new charting, instant messaging, and enhanced tools to drive results for commodity buyers." Delivered entirely from a native HTML5 application that is responsive, powerful, and designed to be a true end-to-end workflow solution for commodity trading - cmdtyView allows users to analyze data, make a decision, and then quickly put it into action. All new features and content for cmdtyView 2.0 includes: Physical Grain Buying - Users can access our deep community of sellers that use producer solutions with the cmdtyMatch SM integration built right into cmdtyView. integration built right into cmdtyView. Grain Index features - The cmdty Grain Indexes are now featured across multiple modules, making it easier for users to benchmark grain pricing. Global Fundamental Data - Access to cmdtyStats SM , the premier source of aggregated economic data and commodity statistics. , the premier source of aggregated economic data and commodity statistics. Instant Messaging - Users can communicate with buyers and suppliers in real-time to negotiate physical grain trading faster than ever before. Global Spot Pricing - International spot pricing for grains and oilseeds from Commodity3. All New Charting - Brand new high performance charting component which has been built from the ground up and includes additional plot types, aggregation types and an enhanced user experience. Economic Calendar - Dedicated economic calendar functionality to ensure users are ready for each day's market moving events. Localization - Native support for Spanish, Portuguese, and French. To begin a free trial of cmdtyView, or upgrade from cmdtyView LTE, please visit our website. Additionally, individuals can demo cmdtyView this week at cmdtyExchange, a brand new event hosted by Barchart which highlights the data, tools and technology driving innovation in commodity markets. cmdtyExchange will be taking place May 8-10 in Chicago. Last minute tickets are still available at www.cmdtyexchange.com. To learn more about the cmdty by Barchart product line, please visit: https://www.barchart.com/solutions/cmdty. About Barchart Barchart is a leading provider of market data and services to the global financial, media, and commodity industries. Our diversified client base trusts Barchart's innovative Solutions across data, software, and technology to power their operation from front to back office, while our Media brands enable financial and commodity professionals to make decisions through web content, news, and publications. For more information, please visit www.barchart.com/solutions. SOURCE Barchart Related Links http://www.barchart.com LONDON and SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Majority of global organizations talk of customer-first approach to businesses, but over half are failing to deliver Businesses are failing because their organizations aren't set up for collaboration - yet two-thirds of global businesses are worried about being digitally disrupted by competitors Senior business decision-makers are more likely to embrace failure, whilst junior employees feel less encouraged if they don't succeed New research reveals that over 80 percent of businesses are talking about the benefits of a customer-first approach, but few of these are turning talk into action. Over half (51 percent) of respondents said customer centricity isn't focused on enough in their organization, despite the rhetoric. This is according to a global research report from Optimizely that surveyed over 800 purchasing decision-makers from marketing, product and IT teams in the U.K., U.S., and Germany. The Digital Experience Economy report uncovers the keys to success in the new age of digital experiences and reveals the cultural and structural barriers that are holding back innovation. The findings show that employees from different departments across the organization need to be empowered to have a meaningful impact on customer experience. According to 79 percent of business leaders, the customer experience would benefit if the product, marketing, and IT/engineering teams worked together more closely. Ninety-one percent of respondents claimed that their organization's employees are capable of delivering a constant flow of new ideas focused on improving the digital customer experience. However, over a third (34 percent) say that organizational structures make it too difficult to turn an idea into reality and team members don't have the time to focus on developing new ideas. Thirty-two percent say siloes cause issues, as responsibility for delivering new ideas is kept locked down in one team within an organization. Changing attitudes to change If businesses are to constantly improve the digital customer experience, they must experiment with new approaches. New ideas will not always work, so adjusting attitudes towards failure is an important consideration for innovative businesses. Currently one in five organizations (20 percent) still have a culture where failure is not an option. But this might change soon. In the past 3 years alone 68 percent of executives have altered their attitude to change, with 94 percent of these executives claiming their organization has become more open. It is leaders who are driving this trend, as 43 percent of decision-makers embrace failure more than less senior employees. "Innovative organizations such as Amazon and Google have consistently embraced failure as a part of their culture," says Dan Siroker, co-founder and executive chairman at Optimizely. "Being able to experiment and fail fast allows organizations to innovate, and stay in touch with the ever-changing Digital Experience Economy. A business-changing idea can just as easily come from the customer support desk as it can from the board room. For this reason, organizations need to ensure they have a culture that allows all employees to have a voice when it comes to customer experience initiatives." Businesses struggle for digital clarity It is no coincidence that this trend has come at a time where businesses see digital disruption as a constant threat. In fact, two-thirds (66 percent) of global businesses are either moderately or very concerned about being digitally disrupted by their competition. With the customer experience pivotal to success in this landscape, 89 percent of business decision-makers see digital experimentation as an important part of transforming their customer experience. It is clear that communication around such digital transformation must be improved. Worryingly, 40 percent of business decision-makers don't understand what their organization means by 'digital transformation.' Further to this, 58 percent agree that the definition of digital transformation and what it means is not communicated clearly enough by leadership teams. Ultimately, an inability to effectively communicate digital transformation initiatives will result in projects being stalled, or failing altogether. Whilst a quarter (25 percent) of businesses from the U.S. and Germany don't expect it to take more than a year to roll out their digital transformation initiatives to the entire organization, only 14 percent of respondents in the U.K. felt this was achievable. "Ten years ago, investment in digital for most businesses was significant. But today, we've seen rapid exponential growth towards how companies think about experience design, product engagement, and customer experience. With the democratization of software for gathering data, analyzing data, and using data to make better products and experiences, businesses have the opportunity to get closer to their customer than ever before. I see experimentation as the key enabler to helping businesses get closer to their customer, to iterate and validate their way into value creation. It's a continuous and iterative process for understanding what your customers most need and expect," said Matty Wishnow, Managing Director, Experience Design & Optimization at Accenture Interactive. To learn more about the cultural barriers blocking successful digital transformation, the organizational structures that are halting innovation, and how businesses can position themselves for true customer-centricity, click here to download the full global report. About the Research Report The research was conducted by independent research firm Sapio, based in the United Kingdom on behalf of Optimizely. Optimizely surveyed 808 purchasing decision-makers or influencers from the U.K. (25 percent), U.S. (50 percent) and Germany (25 percent). All interviews were conducted online in March 2019. About Optimizely: Optimizely is the world's leader in digital experience optimization, allowing businesses to dramatically drive up the value of their digital products, commerce and campaigns through its best in class experimentation software platform. By replacing digital guesswork with evidence-based results, Optimizely enables product and marketing professionals to accelerate innovation, lower the risk of new features, and drive up the return on investment from digital by up to 10X. Optimizely's impressive customer list includes Visa, BBC, IBM, Wall Street Journal and many more global enterprises. To learn more, visit optimizely.com. SOURCE Optimizely Related Links http://optimizely.com NOIDA, India, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- NIIT Technologies Limited (NSE: NIITTECH), a leading global IT solutions organization, today announced a strategic partnership with Blue Chip Customer Engineering Ltd to enhance the profitability and productivity of their customers. The partnership aims to bring NIIT Technologies' wealth management application and Blue Chip's IBM POWER expertise together to provide an end-to-end solution. Blue Chip provides maintenance, on-premise and cloud services within their Tier III & IV Data Centres in UK, and together NIIT Technologies and Blue Chip will address the demand in the market for a 360 degree support for its customer base which uses the IBM Power platform. The partnership will support wealth management and other financial organizations in maintaining, supplying and managing the IBM POWER platform, including IBMi & AIX operating systems. The organizations will not only have access to the best in class services, but also a cost effective alternative that will promote business growth. The partnership will help NIIT Technologies gain access to Blue Chip's expertise in the IBM midrange systems and will enable them to serve their clients with tailored and niche solutions. Commenting on the partnership, Sudhir Singh, CEO at NIIT Technologies, said, "At NIIT Technologies, we work towards solving specific business issues for our clients by providing them with solutions that aid the end-user experience and enable business development. The partnership with Blue Chip is a strategic move in this direction. With the increased adoption of cloud based services, Blue Chip brings the capability of providing and managing IBM power range platforms on the cloud. Together with Blue Chip, we will work towards addressing this aspect of the cloud for enterprises." Brian Meredith, CEO at Blue Chip, said, "We're delighted to be partnering with NIIT Technologies to expand our portfolio of end-to-end solutions for our customers through their application expertise, whilst providing them access to the largest Power Cloud in Europe. We're continually innovating and investing in the future, pioneering the service offerings to our customer base." About NIIT Technologies Ltd. NIIT Technologies is a leading global IT solutions organization, enabling its clients to transform at the intersect of unparalleled domain expertise and emerging technologies to achieve real-world business impact. The Company focuses on three key verticals: Banking and financial services, Insurance, Travel and Transportation. This domain strength combined with leading-edge capabilities in Data & Analytics, Automation, Cloud, and Digital, is enabling its clients to drive business transformation. With over 10,000 employees serving clients across Americas, Europe, Asia, and Australia, NIIT Technologies fosters a culture that promotes innovation and constantly seeks to find new yet simple ways to add value for its clients. Learn more about NIIT Technologies at www.niit-tech.com. About Blue Chip We don't just understand our customers' changing needs, we deliver on them. We combine real life experience with pioneering technical expertise to produce world class managed IT solutions. Providing you the reassurance that ensures your focus stays on growing your business. We will do the rest Advancing your IT. BlueChip is a Gold IBM business partner and a founding member of the IBM POWER Cloud programme. Under the current partnership, they will work with NIIT Technologies in the United Kingdom. Learn more about Blue Chip at www.bluechip.co.uk Safe Harbor Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements. The business involves various risks, and uncertainties that could result in the actual results to differ materially from those indicated here. All forward looking statements made herein are based on information presently available to the management of the Company and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company. For media queries please contact: Akanksha Gupta Corporate Communications NIIT Technologies Ltd. +91-120-7119033 [email protected] Suman Nath Edelman India +91-9958065680 [email protected] For investor/analyst queries please contact: Abhinandan Singh Head Investor Relations and M&A NIIT Technologies Ltd. +91-22-40103212 [email protected] SOURCE NIIT Technologies Ltd. Related Links http://www.niit-tech.com LOS ANGELES, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- OA Experiential, a creative and production agency, has launched a new initiative called the "OA Immersive Core." The Core brings together some of the foremost immersive and site-specific theater innovators as a team in order to design remarkable brand experiences. Immersive theater removes the stage and makes the audience a central character in a story - giving them an "insider" perspective where their choices can drive the story and give the guest a bespoke experience. Collectively, OA's Core has created world-renowned experiential and site-specific immersions, award-winning escape rooms, innovative single-guest experiences, and trans-media creations. Their collective expertise includes: consumer journeys, scripting, direction, gamification, experience design, video and documentation, and integrating event technology. Combined with OA's production capabilities, they are poised to help brands create their next unforgettable experience. In the past year, OA has created immersive experiences for brands such as NBC's The Good Place (Winner of Best Outdoor Environment by Event Marketer), Hulu's Castle Rock, and FX's American Horror Story, all of which saw tremendous results. Founder and Executive Producer Matt Ford, says, "I believe we've only scratched the surface of how brands can utilize this powerful tool in their marketing activations. People will never get tired of human connection and a great story. OA is furthering the belief that well-crafted activations can increase consumer affinity by getting at the root of the brand story and experience." In addition to having these rostered artists available, OA is investing in the core's individual work and development. By providing resources like office space, design services, event insurance, and investment in their projects, OA is cultivating their creativity outside of their brand work. Ford notes, "We're not looking at this group as merely a set of hired hands. We want to make sure they're able to keep creating and learning - when they get better, we get better." To commemorate the launch, an invite-only, immersive cocktail party will be hosted at Montage Beverly Hills for marketing executives of some of the most globally recognized brands. The experience will begin with a mailed invite which will give the guest clues about what they will experience inside guestrooms and private speakeasy bar. OA has partnered with Event Farm , an experiential marketing platform, to bring cutting edge event technology to its guests which include attendee texting, wearable tech, real-time polling and more. Biographies and upcoming events can be found at https://oaexp.com/immersive-core/ OA Experiential ( oaexp.com ) is a full-service creative, design and production agency specializing in high-quality, high-visibility brand activations and immersive experiences. By creating innovative live events, OA helps brands increase loyalty and market share. OA Experiential won Event Marketer's Best Outdoor Environment of 2018 for their design and production of NBC's The Good Place at ComicCon. Alison Wright, [email protected], 424-258-4887 SOURCE OA Experiential Related Links https://oaexp.com "The Obagi SKINCLUSION initiative is very close to my heart because it aligns with my values and personal experience," said Priyanka, who has been recognized by Forbes over the last two years as one of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women. "The initiative supports the idea that we should be more conscious about everything we do, including how we address the automatic assumptions we make about others based on their skin tone. We all have unconscious bias, and it's up to all of us to recognize it and be the change we want to see in the world." Obagi developed this important and timely initiative to focus on the need for people around the world to be fully inclusive and to recognize our own unconscious biases, specifically surrounding skin tone. Unconscious biases are attitudes and stereotypes that are largely unintentional, automatic and outside of our awareness. Unconscious biases can cause "blind spots" that prevent us from seeing the beautiful humanity we all share. Recognizing our own bias may allow us to challenge it, overcome it and ultimately, create a world where diversity is celebrated. "Obagi's SKINCLUSION initiative represents our commitment as leaders in the skin care space to elevate the global dialogue about diversity and inclusion, and spark actions that are more inclusive and reflective of all of our beautiful differences," said Jaime Castle, Obagi President and member of the CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, the largest CEO-driven business commitment to advance diversity and inclusion within the workplace. "We're proud of Obagi's 30-year legacy of providing effective, science-based skin care products for all skin tones and that we were the first professional skin care company to specifically design clinical research protocols to include all six Fitzpatrick skin types. We're also so proud to partner with Priyanka, who has brought an amazing level of passion and integrity to this initiative, and to support the significant work being done by the International Cultural Diversity Organization and Project Implicit." OBAGI SKINCLUSION INITIATIVE CALL TO ACTION As part of the SKINCLUSION initiative, Obagi is supporting groups who work to expand diversity and inclusion efforts around the world, including the significant work being done by the International Cultural Diversity Organization (ICDO) and Project Implicit. The SKINCLUSION initiative encourages people to: Visit SKINCLUSION.com to view resources from the ICDO and Project Implicit, and take the Skin Tone Implicit Association Test Join the global dialogue celebrating diversity and inclusion by using #SKINCLUSION on your social channels and share why diversity and inclusion are important to you Watch, like and share Priyanka's SKINCLUSION video to keep spreading the word Follow Obagi social media channels to participate in social challenges led by Priyanka and Obagi throughout the year, including a chance to meet Priyanka at a special SKINCLUSION event For every social action taken using #SKINCLUSION, Obagi will donate $1 to support the ICDO and Project Implicit, with a total donation of $150,000. OBAGI RAISES THE BAR, FOCUSES CLINICAL RESEARCH ON ALL FITZPATRICK SKIN TYPES Obagi has pioneered many skin care advances, including being the first medical skin care brand to design its clinical research protocols to cover all six skin types across the Fitzpatrick skin spectrum. The Fitzpatrick skin spectrum is a scientific classification that identifies six different skin types according to the amount of pigment in the skin and the skin's reaction to sun or ultraviolet light (UV) exposure. Obagi believes that protecting and nourishing skin depends on developing a skin care regimen with a provider, and choosing products that are highly effective, clinically proven and right for an individual's specific skin type, age and skin care needs. "I am delighted to see that Obagi is putting its commitment to diversity and inclusion front and center," said leading dermatologist Jeanine B. Downie, MD, FAAD, and director of Image Dermatology P.C. in Montclair, New Jersey. "The reality is that not all skin tones are the same when it comes to determining what kinds of products and treatments are effective. The fact that the team at Obagi has ensured their clinical trials are designed to include skin types across the entire Fitzpatrick skin spectrum is significant and should be the way forward for the entire skin care industry." ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL DIVERSITY ORGANIZATION (ICDO) ICDO is a Vienna-based global nonprofit dedicated to promoting peace, humanity, diversity and interculturality. Its mission is to raise awareness of contemporary societal issues and of the positive influence of cultural diversity. ICDO challenges cultural misperceptions to ensure equal participation of every individual or group within society. By bringing attention to different cultural expressions and their values, ICDO encourages cultural interaction and connects people by closing cultural gaps. To fulfill its mission, ICDO organizes international events, workshops, research, and social, cultural and development projects. It gathers academic, professional, local and international voices in a mutual dialogue to safeguard diversity and to enhance society through action. "The ICDO is delighted and grateful to be part of the Obagi SKINCLUSION initiative," said Josipa Palac, ICDO's President and CEO. "Obagi's commitment to diversity and inclusion aligns with our mission to promote the idea that diversity makes society stronger in every aspect. Through everyone's participation in the initiative and Obagi's generous support, ICDO will continue to host new and innovative programs around the world that celebrate our multicultural differences and promote a true understanding of humanity." ABOUT PROJECT IMPLICIT Project Implicit is a virtual laboratory and research organization developed by behavioral scientists to provide education about implicit bias through Implicit Association Tests (IATs). The tests focus on 11 different areas, including skin tone, gender, race and sexual orientation; are free to take; and can be completed in under 10 minutes. The IAT is designed to reveal our biases toward various social groups. Individual results are private and become part of ongoing collective research results. Project Implicit is made up of a team of scientists whose research found new ways of understanding attitudes, stereotypes and other hidden biases that influence people's perception, judgement and behavior. Since its founding in 1998, more than 22 million people have taken the IATs and 28 peer-reviewed research articles have been published on their findings, including the January 2019 publication in Psychological Science that highlights strides made in skin tone implicit bias. "We are delighted Obagi is supporting the work we do at Project Implicit," said Elizabeth L. Haines, Ph.D., a research scientist for Project Implicit and a professor and director of the Social Cognition Lab at William Paterson University. "Implicit bias refers to a bias that is mostly unintentional, automatic and outside of our awareness. It's unique to every individual and influenced by our background, cultural environment and personal experiences. Oftentimes, it can be at odds with our own perceptions of ourselves and our conscious values and standards, and it plays a role in our everyday lives from our interactions at work, to those with friends and acquaintances and even at the doctor's office. Recognizing this bias in ourselves and how it impacts us can be a step to making changes that can make a positive difference." ABOUT OBAGI Obagi is a female-led independent global skin care company dedicated to providing advanced, clinically proven skin care treatments for all skin types. With a 30-year legacy and commitment to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of its business from its corporate culture to product development Obagi has pioneered a number of skin care advances, including being the first skin care brand to design its clinical research covering all six skin types across the Fitzpatrick skin spectrum. Through an extensive network of distributors, partners and physician offices around the world, the company provides more than 100 Obagi Medical products to brighten, nourish, protect and enhance skin tone and texture. Obagi also offers dermatologist-tested, technologically advanced formulas through its Obagi Clinical line, which is accessible to consumers exclusively through Sephora. Learn more about Obagi and find a provider near you by visiting www.obagi.com, and connect with Obagi Medical and Obagi Clinical on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. All company names and logos are trademarks of their respective organizations. SKINCLUSION and all other products/brand names, whether designated by notice (/TM) or not, are trademarks of Obagi Cosmeceuticals LLC and/or its affiliates. Obagi Cosmeceuticals LLC. All rights reserved. For more information please contact: Sharon Robustelli VegaRun 347.267.3946 [email protected] Laura Morgan VegaRun 951.333.9110 [email protected] SOURCE Obagi GRANVILLE, Ohio, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- As we celebrate "In-Demand Jobs Week" in Ohio, the Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program (OOGEEP) wants Ohio students and job-seekers to know that there are more than 75 different rewarding and high-demand careers available in Ohio's natural gas and oil industry. In-demand jobs are defined as jobs that have a sustainable wage and a promising future based on the projected number of openings and growth. "In 2011, our industry employed around 14,000 Ohioans, and today that number has dramatically increased to nearly 200,000, thanks to the ongoing development of the Marcellus and Utica Shale formations," Rhonda Reda, OOGEEP Executive Director said. "As a result, workforce development remains a priority for our industry." OOGEEP recently released a new Career Guide and an online Career Video Series that highlights the in-demand careers in Ohio's natural gas and oil industry including diesel mechanics, welders, lease operators, land surveyors, CDL truck drivers, derrickhands, geologists, petroleum engineers and many more. As the demand for employees in the industry increases, so does the need for this energy sector to continue to foster relationships between Ohio's education community and our local natural gas and oil industry. Today, OOGEEP is working with more than 90 Ohio colleges, universities, and career and technical schools that offer training programs in more than 75 different career paths. In addition, OOGEEP will be announcing another 65 scholarship winners to students pursuing careers in the natural gas and oil industry. To learn more about the new "Oil and Gas Careers In Ohio" guides and video series, as well as a list of educational and training programs, visit http://www.oogeep.org/industry-workforce/careers/. The Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program (OOGEEP) is a non-profit statewide education and public outreach program. Created in 1998, OOGEEP provides a variety of programs throughout the State of Ohio. These programs primarily focus on teacher workshops, scholarships, science fair, firefighter training, industry training, career and workforce development, research and guest speaker programs. Media Contact: Angela Snyder 614-220-8659 SOURCE Ohio Oil and Gas Energy Education Program OneOncology's national partnership connects our physicians and practices via common technology and data platforms that leverage clinical, operational and financial data to enhance practice operations and create an efficient and harmonious patient experience. The physicians in Southern Arizona will bring extraordinary knowledge and experience to the network and increase OneOncology's economies of scale and intelligence. On June 3, 2019, Arizona Blood & Cancer Specialists will open six clinics serving patients in Tucson, Green Valley, Nogales and Safford. Together, OneOncology and Arizona Blood & Cancer Specialists will build multidisciplinary, comprehensive cancer centers to provide an exceptional, personalized experience across the continuum of care from prevention and diagnosis, to clinical trials and treatment, through survivorship, palliative and supportive care. "As a physician in Southern Arizona, I have dedicated my career to caring for cancer patients in our community by providing best-in-class care and clinical trials," said Dr. Robert Brooks. "Our patient-centered and physician-driven philosophy aligns with the OneOncology mission and we believe will drive the next generation of cancer care in our community." OneOncology is focused on partnering with physicians who are committed to providing the best patient care and advancing the science and practice of oncology nationwide. "The addition of these expert oncologists to our partnership demonstrates why our physician-led, data-driven, technology-powered, and patient-centric business model is attractive to top doctors across the country," said Tracy L. Bahl, President & CEO of OneOncology. "We are honored that Dr. Brooks and his team have chosen to join us and look forward to expanding our presence in the southwest." For more information about Arizona Blood & Cancer Specialists, its physicians and treatments offered, please call 800-201-7220. About OneOncology: OneOncology is a national partnership of independent, community oncology practices driving the future of cancer care through a physician-led, data-driven, technology-powered, and patient-centric model improving the lives of everyone living with cancer close to home. To learn more, visit oneoncology.com or on LinkedIn. SOURCE OneOncology Related Links https://oneoncology.com/ SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The global optical coatings market size is expected to reach USD 25.64 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is projected to register a CAGR of 9.0% during the forecast period. Growing solar industry and investments in aerospace and defense industry are the key market drivers. Key suggestions from the report: In terms of revenue, anti-reflective coatings product is anticipated to witness a CAGR of 8.6% from 2017 to 2025 In terms of revenue, reflective coatings segment is projected to expand at a CAGR of 9.9% over the forecast period Consumer electronics application led the global optical coatings market with a global market share of 31.5% in 2017 Europe is anticipated to reach 659.9 kilotons by 2025 In terms of revenue, Central and South America is projected to witness a CAGR of 8.6% over the forecast period. Rising construction activities owing to the recovery from economic recession are expected to propel construction industry in the region Some of the key market players are Alluxa; Cascade Optical Corporation; Chroma Technology Corporation.; Inrad Optics; Optical Coatings Japan; PPG Industries, Inc.; VIAVI Solutions Inc. ; Schott AG; and Abrisa Technologies Read 224 page research report with TOC on "Optical Coatings Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Anti-reflective, Reflective, Conductive), By Application (Consumer Electronics, Architecture, Solar), And Segment Forecasts, 2019 - 2025" at: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/optical-coatings-industry Wide usage in scientific and medical devices for screen displays is anticipated to augment the demand over the forecast period. Medical equipment industry was valued at nearly USD 6.7 billion in 2016 and is expected to reach around USD 8.6 billion by 2020. Therefore, rising demand from solar, electronics, and medical sector is expected to drive the optical coatings market over the forecast period. Rapid growth of consumer electronics sector in Canada, China, and India is expected to propel the demand for optical coatings over the forecast period. Owing to the presence of numerous large and small producers, Asia Pacific is one of the largest markets for consumer electronics. The fast track task force in India, which is a body of Ministry of Electronics and IT, has planned to achieve about 500 million mobile phone production by 2019 worth about USD 46 billion. Moreover, shifting consumer preference toward smart technologies and smart touch displays is expected to propel the growth over the forecast period. Extensive R&D and development of material and fabrication technologies are expected to have a positive impact on the industry. Growing demand for optical coatings for genetic analysis, biomedical, micro-optical systems, and sensors is expected to further drive the market. Rising prominence of optical systems in defense sector is also anticipated to be a key driver for the growth in the forthcoming years. Increasing military spending by countries, such as U.S., India, and China is expected to bolster the product demand. For instance, U.S. allocated military budget worth USD 824.6 billion from October 2017 to September 2018. Therefore, steady growth in the military spending is likely to positively influence the optical coating market. Grand View Research has segmented the global optical coatings market report on the basis of product, application, and region: Optical Coatings Product Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) Anti-reflective Reflective Filter Conductive Electrochromic Others Optical Coatings Application Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) Consumer Electronics Solar Medical Architecture Aerospace & Defense Automotive Telecommunication Others Optical Coatings Regional Outlook (Volume, Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2014 - 2025) North America U.S. Canada Mexico Europe Germany U.K. France Italy Netherlands Spain Norway Poland Asia Pacific China Japan India Singapore Malaysia Indonesia Australia South Korea New Zealand Thailand Central & South America Brazil Argentina Columbia MEA Saudi Arabia South Africa Qatar Egypt UAE Find more research reports on Paints, Coatings & Printing Inks Industry, by Grand View Research: Fluoropolymer Coating Additives Market Increasing application in end-use industries such as construction and automobile industries is projected to drive global fluoropolymer coating additives market growth. Increasing application in end-use industries such as construction and automobile industries is projected to drive global fluoropolymer coating additives market growth. UV Coatings Market Increasing environmental awareness coupled with growing electronics industry is projected to drive the global UV coatings market over the forecast period. Increasing environmental awareness coupled with growing electronics industry is projected to drive the global UV coatings market over the forecast period. Xylene Market Growing polymer and petrochemical sector coupled with increasing demand for PET, leather and rubber are expected to drive xylene market over the next six years. Gain access to Grand View Compass, our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports About Grand View Research Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead. Contact: Sherry James Corporate Sales Specialist, USA Grand View Research, Inc. Phone: +1-415-349-0058 Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519 Email: [email protected] Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc. MONTREAL, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Optina Diagnostics announces today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Breakthrough Device Designation to its retinal imaging platform (CAPRS1/MHRC2). Optina Diagnostics' platform uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to analyze the data rich hyperspectral retinal images captured with the MHRC during a simple eye scan. Optina Diagnostics' platform is intended for the detection of likely positron-emission tomography (PET) amyloid status (negative or positive), to aid in the evaluation of adult patients with cognitive impairment who are being evaluated for Alzheimer's disease and other causes of cognitive decline. Optina Diagnostics' platform is an adjunct to other diagnostic evaluations. Amyloid PET is the standard method for the detection of amyloid plaques in the brain, a key hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, and may be useful to confirm the diagnosis and optimize the patient management of patients being evaluated of Alzheimer's disease and other causes of cognitive decline. However, amyloid PET is an expensive technique of limited accessibility. In clinical practice, therefore, the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is mostly based on clinical symptoms, without evaluation of the amyloid status, which leads to incorrect diagnosis for nearly one third of the patients presenting at the memory clinic with cognitive impairment and half of those presenting with ambiguous cases. Optina Diagnostics is working towards a non-invasive and more accessible means via a simple eye imaging test to improve the diagnosis accuracy and management of patients evaluated for Alzheimer's disease or other form of cognitive decline. "We are excited to receive this Breakthrough Device Designation from the FDA as it recognizes the potential benefits the Optina Diagnostics' platform could bring to clinicians, their patients and families in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and will permit to expedite its development and regulatory approval in the U.S." said David Lapointe, CEO of Optina Diagnostics. "Optina Diagnostics' technology based on data-rich hyperspectral retinal imaging combined with AI opens tremendous possibilities to have insights into the brain non-invasively and at a low cost. The Optina Diagnostics technology could also be helpful to accelerate and reduce the cost for the enrollment of participants that are really on the Alzheimer's path to conduct clinical trials for disease-modifying drugs for Alzheimer's disease." The Breakthrough Device Program is a voluntary program for certain medical devices that provide for more effective treatment or diagnosis of life-threatening or irreversible debilitating diseases or conditions. This program is designed to expedite the development and review of these medical devices. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, which affects the ability to think, reason and remember clearly, and is the most frequent cause of institutionalization for long-term care. This progressive degenerative brain disease is ultimately fatal, as no disease-modifying treatment currently exits to delay its progression. Nowadays, more than 50 million people are diagnosed with Alzheimer's or a related dementia. It is listed as the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States. The prediction is that by 2050, the number of people suffering from Alzheimer's disease will triple, affecting 14 million people in the US alone, due to aging population demographics. Early detection of this disease is Optina Diagnostics' principal mission. About: Optina Diagnostics is a Montreal-based company focused on the development of technology for the early detection of diseases through hyperspectral imaging of the retina. Optina Diagnostics brings an AI approach to biomarker detection with its first application in support to the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. optinadx.com _________________________________________ 1 CAPRS: Cerebral Amyloid Predictor Retina Scan 2 MHRC: Metabolic Hyperspectral Retinal Camera SOURCE Optina Diagnostics Related Links http://www.optinadx.com NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- First Quarter 2019 Highlights: Gross revenues of $15.4 million for the quarter, up 7% versus the prior year period Operating income of $4.0 million for the quarter, down 12%, or $0.5M , over the prior year period with $0.5M of non-recurring expenses related to the move to new office space Net income of $3.5 million , a decline of 5% from the prior year period, and quarterly diluted GAAP EPS of $0.30 , down 3% Total cash returned to shareholders during the quarter of $3.1 million , an increase of 18%, comprised of dividends of $1.7 million and repurchases of common shares of $1.4 million Announcing second quarter 2019 dividend of $0.15 per share 12 graduates to a national securities exchange during the quarter Launched Canari SM , a web-based tool designed to provide a comprehensive view of quantitative compliance data points for OTC securities Completed acquisition from PR Newswire of assets related to the Virtual Investor Conferences SM business, with 4 events hosted since acquisition and 13 events already confirmed for 2019 Completed acquisition and integration of Qaravan SM Inc., enhancing suite of Market Data services Completed move to new corporate headquarters at 300 Vesey Street, part of the premier Brookfield Place complex in downtown New York City OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of the OTCQX Best Market, the OTCQB Venture Market and the Pink Open Market for 10,000 U.S. and global securities, today announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2019. "Against the backdrop of a slower trading environment, the first quarter of 2019 marked the 9th consecutive quarter for which we have reported top line revenue growth," said R. Cromwell Coulson, President and Chief Executive Officer. "While remaining focused on our core business, we also moved to new state-of-the-art-facilities in downtown New York and did so on schedule and without seeing any business interruption. We integrated our recent acquisitions, and have continued to make investments that will move our business forward and deliver on our mission." "We were pleased to report another quarter of revenue growth, with strong sales and increased uptake across our business lines, and improved retention all contributing. We also saw the impact of our continued investment in the people, technologies and facilities that we believe will continue to drive sustainable, long term earnings growth. We remain focused on building upon our track record of providing superior returns to our shareholders," said Bea Ordonez, Chief Financial Officer. First Quarter 2019 compared to First Quarter 2018 Three Months Ended March 31, (in thousands, except shares and per share data) 2019 2018 % change $ change OTC Link $ 2,843 $ 2,651 7% $ 192 Market data licensing 6,071 5,842 4% 229 Corporate services 6,442 5,849 10% 593 Gross revenues 15,356 14,342 7% 1,014 Net revenues 14,730 13,719 7% 1,011 Revenues less transaction-based expenses 14,590 13,713 6% 877 Operating expenses 10,568 9,163 15% 1,405 Income from operations 4,022 4,550 (12%) (528) Operating profit margin 27.3% 33.2% Income before provision for income taxes 4,059 4,567 (11%) (508) Net income $ 3,547 $ 3,747 (5%) $ (200) Diluted earnings per share $ 0.30 $ 0.31 (3%) $ (0.01) Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 0.42 $ 0.46 (3%) $ (0.04) Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted 11,718,536 11,609,635 1% Financial Highlights Gross revenues increased $1.0 million , or 7%, to $15.4 million . , or 7%, to . Corporate Services delivered 10% growth, with strong sales on both premium markets, an improved retention rate on the OTCQX market and the full quarterly impact of 2018 price increases on the OTCQB market all contributing. Market Data Licensing revenues grew 4%, with an increase in the number of professional users as well as increased usage of data file products, including compliance data file products, driving that increase. OTC Link revenues increased 7% over the prior year quarter, with revenues from OTC Link ECN offsetting a 9% decrease in message revenue when compared to the very active market environment in the first quarter of 2018. Operating expenses, inclusive of one time costs related to the move to new office, increased $1.4 million , or 15%, to $10.6 million . , or 15%, to . Compensation costs increased 13%, primarily a result of annual salary raises and increased headcount, reflecting continued investment in overseas sales and in product development and sales efforts related to the Virtual Investor Conferences and Qaravan offerings. Non-recurring costs related to the move to new office space of $0.5M , comprised of occupancy costs for legacy space prior to surrender, and one time project management and other costs related to the move. , comprised of occupancy costs for legacy space prior to surrender, and one time project management and other costs related to the move. Net income decreased $0.2M , or 5%, to $3.5 million , reflecting the impact of one-time costs as well as a higher operating expense base, partially offset by higher revenues and a decrease in the company's effective tax rate for the quarter from 18% to 13%. , or 5%, to , reflecting the impact of one-time costs as well as a higher operating expense base, partially offset by higher revenues and a decrease in the company's effective tax rate for the quarter from 18% to 13%. Adjusted EBITDA, which excludes non-cash stock-based compensation expense, decreased 7%, to $5.1 million , or $0.42 per adjusted diluted share. Business Developments and News In April 2019 , launched Canari, a premium, web-based tool designed to provide subscribers with a comprehensive view of quantitative compliance data points and analytics tools for OTCQX, OTCQB, Pink and Grey Market securities. , launched Canari, a premium, web-based tool designed to provide subscribers with a comprehensive view of quantitative compliance data points and analytics tools for OTCQX, OTCQB, Pink and Grey Market securities. In March 2019 , completed move to state-of-the-art new corporate headquarters at 300 Vesey Street in downtown New York City . On a normalized basis, additional operating expenses related to this new space will be approximately $150 thousand to $180 thousand per quarter. , completed move to state-of-the-art new corporate headquarters at 300 Vesey Street in downtown . On a normalized basis, additional operating expenses related to this new space will be approximately to per quarter. Largely based on the company's 2016 petition for rulemaking with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and subsequent legislation, on January 31, 2019 the SEC adopted rules amending Regulation A+ to allow SEC reporting companies to use this capital raising tool. the SEC adopted rules amending Regulation A+ to allow SEC reporting companies to use this capital raising tool. Following our acquisition of assets related to the Virtual Investor Conferences business, during the first quarter, completed our integration efforts and, through the reporting date, hosted 4 events, with 13 events already confirmed for the remainder of 2019, including partner events with Deutsche Bank and KCSA. Completed integration of the February 2019 acquisition of Qaravan Inc., allowing the company to offer a suite of additional tools and data services to support the public and private banking industry. acquisition of Qaravan Inc., allowing the company to offer a suite of additional tools and data services to support the public and private banking industry. As of May 1, 2019 , the OTCQX market is exempt from state Blue Sky laws regarding secondary trading in thirty-four states and the OTCQB market is exempt in thirty-one states. , the OTCQX market is exempt from state Blue Sky laws regarding secondary trading in thirty-four states and the OTCQB market is exempt in thirty-one states. As of May 1, 2019 , there are thirty-nine transfer agents participating in the Transfer Agent Verified Shares Program, making current share information publicly available for approximately 99% of the U.S. companies on the OTCQX and OTCQB markets. The continued expansion of the program further enhances the availability and reliability of company share information. , there are thirty-nine transfer agents participating in the Transfer Agent Verified Shares Program, making current share information publicly available for approximately 99% of the U.S. companies on the OTCQX and OTCQB markets. The continued expansion of the program further enhances the availability and reliability of company share information. As of May 1, 2019 , 31 subscribers use the company's compliance data products to enhance and automate their compliance processes in the OTC and the small-cap exchange listed space. Subscribers include many of the largest custodians, banks and broker-dealers in the US equities markets. , 31 subscribers use the company's compliance data products to enhance and automate their compliance processes in the OTC and the small-cap exchange listed space. Subscribers include many of the largest custodians, banks and broker-dealers in the US equities markets. OTC Link ECN continued to gain traction with 43 subscribers connected to the ECN as at May 1, 2019 . Dividend Declaration Quarterly Cash Dividend OTC Markets Group announced today that its Board of Directors authorized a quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 on its Class A common stock. The quarterly cash dividend is payable on June 27, 2019, to stockholders of record on June 13, 2019. The ex-dividend date is June 12, 2019. Stock Buyback Program The Company is authorized to purchase shares from time to time on the open market, from employees and through block trades, in compliance with applicable law. During the first quarter of 2019, the Company purchased 46,711 shares at an average price of $29.75 per share. On March 7, 2019, the Board of Directors refreshed the Company's stock repurchase program, giving the Company authorization to repurchase up to 300,000 shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock. As at March 31, 2019, there are 300,000 shares remaining to be purchased under the Company's plan. Non-GAAP Financial Measures In addition to disclosing results prepared in accordance with GAAP, the Company also discloses certain non-GAAP results of operations, including adjusted EBITDA and adjusted diluted earnings per share that either exclude or include amounts that are described in the reconciliation table of GAAP to non-GAAP information provided at the end of this release. Non-GAAP financial measures do not replace and are not superior to the presentation of GAAP financial results, but are provided to improve overall understanding of the Company's current financial performance. Management believes that this non-GAAP information is useful to both management and investors regarding certain additional financial and business trends related to the operating results. Management uses this non-GAAP information, along with GAAP information, in evaluating its historical operating performance. First Quarter 2019 Conference Call The Company will host a conference call on Thursday, May 9, 2019, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, during which management will discuss the financial results in further detail. The conference call and replay of the conference call may be accessed as follows: Dial-in Numbers: 1-877-407-9124 (Domestic); 1-201-689-8584 (International); Replay Dial-in Numbers (Available until June 9, 2019): 1-877-481-4010 (Domestic); 1-919-882-2331 (International); Replay PIN Number: 47714 Participants can access the conference via Internet webcast at the following link: https://www.investornetwork.com/event/presentation/47714 The earnings release, transcript of the earnings call and presentation will also be available in the Investor Relations section of the corporate website at www.otcmarkets.com/investor-relations/overview. OTC Markets Group's Quarterly Report for the period ended March 31, 2019, is available publicly at www.otcmarkets.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 financial 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 Investor Contact: Bea Ordonez Chief Financial Officer Phone: 212-220-2215 Email: [email protected] OTC MARKETS GROUP INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (in thousands, except share and per share information) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 OTC Link $ 2,843 $ 2,651 Market data licensing 6,071 5,842 Corporate services 6,442 5,849 Gross revenues 15,356 14,342 Redistribution fees and rebates (626) (623) Net revenues 14,730 13,719 Transaction-based expenses (140) (6) Revenues less transaction-based expenses 14,590 13,713 Operating expenses Compensation and benefits 6,996 6,194 IT Infrastructure and information services 1,527 1,347 Professional and consulting fees 400 406 Marketing and advertising 251 313 Occupancy costs 846 469 Depreciation and amortization 279 252 General, administrative and other 269 182 Total operating expenses 10,568 9,163 Income from operations 4,022 4,550 Other income Interest income 39 7 Other income, net (2) 10 Income before provision for income taxes 4,059 4,567 Provision for income taxes 512 820 Net income $ 3,547 $ 3,747 Net income per share Basic $ 0.30 $ 0.33 Diluted $ 0.30 $ 0.31 Basic weighted average shares outstanding 11,350,341 11,234,150 Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 11,718,536 11,609,635 Non-GAAP Reconciliation Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net Income $ 3,547 $ 3,747 Excluding: Interest Income (39) (7) Provision for income taxes 512 820 Depreciation and amortization 279 252 Stock-based compensation expense 786 654 Adjusted EBITDA $ 5,085 $ 5,466 Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 0.42 $ 0.46 Note: We use non-GAAP financial measures of operating performance. Non-GAAP measures do not replace and are not superior to the presentation of our GAAP financial results, but are provided to improve overall understanding of the Company's current financial performance. OTC MARKETS GROUP INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands, except share information) (Unaudited) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 Assets Current assets Cash $ 22,372 $ 28,813 Short-term restricted cash 160 160 Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $155 and $169 5,419 4,942 Prepaid income taxes 298 478 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 2,365 2,360 Total current assets 30,614 36,753 Property and equipment, net 5,468 1,980 Operating lease right-of-use assets 16,865 - Deferred tax assets, net 988 1,043 Goodwill 251 251 Intangible assets, net 49 61 Long-term restricted cash 1,561 1,561 Total Assets $ 55,796 $ 41,649 Liabilities and stockholders' equity Current liabilities Accounts payable $ 650 $ 693 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 4,356 6,018 Income taxes payable 18 - Deferred revenue 15,244 16,070 Total current liabilities 20,268 22,781 Deferred rent - 1,001 Income tax reserve 1,536 1,458 Operating lease liabilities 16,375 - Total Liabilities 38,179 25,240 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' equity Common stock - par value $0.01 per share Class A - 14,000,000 authorized, 12,155,493 issued, 11,621,797 outstanding at March 31, 2019; 12,035,941 issued, 11,548,956 outstanding at December 31, 2018 122 120 Additional paid-in capital 16,565 15,772 Retained earnings 9,527 7,724 Treasury stock - 533,696 shares at March 31, 2019 and 486,985 shares at December 31, 2018 (8,597) (7,207) Total Stockholders' Equity 17,617 16,409 Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $ 55,796 $ 41,649 SOURCE OTC Markets Group Inc. Related Links http://www.otcmarkets.com SEATTLE, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Panopto, the leading video platform provider in higher education, today announced new migration incentives for Echo360 customers. The incentives are part of Panopto's Echo360 migration program, which consists of a content conversion tool, professional services, complimentary closed captioning, and customized financial aid for customers who commit by September 30, 2019. Financial Incentives and Complimentary Captioning For a limited time, Panopto is offering special financial incentives to Echo360 customers. First, for any university currently engaged in an Echo360 contract, Panopto will provide customized financial aid. Second, any university that commits to migration before September 30, 2019, will receive $3,000 in complimentary closed captioning services as part of their Panopto subscription. With the increasing focus on accessibility in lecture capture, the offer underscores Panopto's commitment to Section-508 compliance. Convert and Keep Existing Content Panopto has developed a content conversion tool that automates the migration of Echo360 videos and automatically uploads the converted content to a new Panopto video library. The conversion process maintains the fidelity of presenter video, additional video sources, slide presentations, captions, and edits, and automatically creates a table of contents and thumbnails for navigation. Institutions around the world have now used the conversion tool to migrate tens of thousands of hours of existing Echo360 content to Panopto. Professional Migration Services As part of the conversion process, Panopto offers professional services to assist customers with their transition. The services include conversion of existing Echo360 video files, integrity validation of the converted files, and provisioning of existing Echo360 users within Panopto. For Echo360 customers interested in finding out more about the migration program and financial incentives, contact Panopto online at www.panopto.com/switch or email [email protected] . About Panopto Panopto helps universities create searchable video libraries of their institutional knowledge. Since 2007, the company has been a pioneer in video content management systems, video capture software, and inside-video search technology. Today, Panopto's video platform is the largest repository of expert learning videos in the world. Headquartered in Seattle, with offices in Pittsburgh, Sydney, Hong Kong, and London, Panopto has received industry recognition for its innovation, rapid growth, and company culture. For more information, visit www.panopto.com . SOURCE Panopto Related Links http://www.panopto.com WASHINGTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Pass USMCA Coalition sent a letter to Congress urging lawmakers to swiftly ratify the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. "Twelve million Americans have jobs that depend on trade with Canada and Mexico," said Pass USMCA Honorary Co-Chairman Gary Locke. "These workers are eager to see lawmakers ratify the new trade pact, as they know it will positively shape the global economy for decades to come." The letter notes that the Pass USMCA Coalition stands ready to work with members and their offices to ensure swift ratification of the deal as negotiated and signed by all three countries. "America already exports over $600 billion in goods and services to Canada and Mexico each year," said Pass USMCA Honorary Co-Chairman Joe Crowley. "The new agreement is a win for workers and the overall economy." "The new trade pact ushers North American trade into the 21st century," echoed Pass USMCA Honorary Co-Chairman Erik Paulsen. "It will increase exports, raise wages, and accelerate innovation." "Our coalition stands ready to work with Congress and the administration to take this landmark agreement over the finish line," said Rick Dearborn, executive director of the Pass USMCA Coalition. "USMCA puts American workers, farmers, and manufacturers back on top. It's time for Congress to move forward with the deal." About Pass USMCA: Pass USMCA Coalition is a group of trade associations and businesses advocating for the swift passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement. The provisions outlined in USMCA will defend American jobs, cultivate innovation, and encourage business development, spurring growth for local, state, and national economies. For more information visit www.PassUSMCA.org. Contact: Emily Troisi (202) 471-4228, ext. 120 [email protected] SOURCE The Pass USMCA Coalition Related Links http://www.passusmca.org PARSIPPANY, N.J., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- PBF Logistics LP (NYSE:PBFX) announced today that the partnership's management will be meeting with investors and industry analysts on May 14 to May 15, 2019, at the 2019 MLP & Energy Infrastructure Conference. The partnership's meeting materials will be available on the Investor Relations section of the PBF Logistics LP website at www.pbflogistics.com. About PBF Logistics LP PBF Logistics LP (NYSE: PBFX), headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, is a fee-based, growth-oriented master limited partnership formed by PBF Energy Inc. to own or lease, operate, develop and acquire crude oil and refined petroleum products terminals, pipelines, storage facilities and similar logistics assets. SOURCE PBF Logistics LP Related Links https://www.pbflogistics.com TYSONS, Va., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- PenFed Credit Union, the nation's second-largest federal credit union, today announced it was selected by the Military Times as a "Best for Vets" employer of 2019. The annual rankings, which are editorially independent, graded nearly 200 companies on veteran recruitment, culture, military policies and accommodations for reservist employees. "We are honored to be recognized by Military Times for our commitment to veterans and military spouses," said PenFed President and CEO James Schenck. "We greatly value the skills, experience, leadership and passion for service the military community brings to PenFed. These qualities make veterans and military spouses invaluable additions to our growing team." As part of an ongoing commitment to hiring and supporting veterans, PenFed launched a Military Employment Program focused on supporting every phase of the employment lifecycle for all members of the military community including veterans, military and surviving spouses, wounded warriors and their caregivers, reservists and National Guardsmen. In addition to spending 25% of its recruiting budget on veterans, PenFed collaborates with dozens of veteran employment organizations, as well as dozens of installation Transition Assistance Program offices, to enhance military employment efforts. Veterans interested in a career with a military-friendly company are welcome to join PenFed's Military Talent Pool. PenFed has a strong legacy of being a military-friendly company and donates 2% of its annual net income to charitable organizations, with the majority going to military charities. The PenFed Foundation PenFed's charitable arm was created in 2001 and, since then, has provided more than $30 million in financial support to veterans, active-duty service members, families and caregivers. The PenFed Foundation Veteran Entrepreneur Investment Program (VEIP) launched last year with a Foundation contribution and matching funding of up to $1 million from PenFed Credit Union. The program provides Veteran-owned start-ups with seed capital to build and grow their businesses, creates a robust network for Veteran-owned businesses to succeed and enables the PenFed Foundation to perpetually reinvest returns in future Veteran-owned businesses. About PenFed Credit Union Established in 1935, Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) is America's second-largest federal credit union, serving 1.7 million members worldwide with $25 billion in assets. PenFed Credit Union offers market-leading certificates, checking, credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, auto loans, student loans, and a wide range of other financial services with members' interests always in mind. 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 HARRISBURG, Pa., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Acting Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar has certified a sixth new voting system that provides a paper record so voters can verify their choices before casting the ballot and audits can confirm the accuracy of election results. Secretary Boockvar certified the Hart InterCivic Verity Voting 2.3.3 on May 7. State and federal certifications allow procurement of the system by any Pennsylvania county. "Pennsylvania counties now have a sixth option from which to choose as they upgrade to new voting systems with state-of-the-art security, accessibility and auditability features, as well as a paper record voters can review and verify," Secretary Boockvar said. "County officials have shown strong leadership and careful diligence in their selection process. We are pleased to offer them an additional choice." Within the last year, the Department of State has also certified the: So far, at least 29 counties, or 43 percent, have taken official action toward acquiring new voting systems, either through a vote to purchase or lease a system, or a vote to approve funding. At least 52 counties, or about 78 percent, have reported plans to implement new systems by 2020. Nine counties expect to be using new voting systems in the May 21 primary. Those that will be implementing new systems for the first time are Bradford, Centre, Crawford, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Montgomery, and Pike counties. Susquehanna County rolled out its new system for the November 2018 general election. Nationwide, there is bipartisan and near universal agreement that, in the interest of security, Direct Recording Electronic voting machines (DREs), still in use in most Pennsylvania counties, should be replaced, and all voters should be voting on paper ballots they can verify. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Senate and House Intelligence Committees, and many experts are urging states to switch to new systems that produce paper records. In April 2018, the Department of State informed counties they have until the end of 2019 to select new voting systems that provide a paper record. The new systems are to be in use no later than the 2020 primary, and preferably by the November 2019 general election. These new systems all have paper trails allowing for more accurate and reliable post-election audits. Counties have their choice from among any of these six voting systems that have attained both federal and state certification. In Pennsylvania, every voting system and paper ballot must include plain text that voters can read to verify their choices before casting their ballot. Election officials will also use the plain text to perform pre-election testing and post-election audits and recounts. Governor Wolf is seeking state funding for at least half of the counties' cost for new voting systems. He is working with the General Assembly to develop specific proposals for state funding and financing. The governor has already committed $14.15 million in federal and state funding to counties for the new voting systems. Counties can use a statewide purchasing contract to cut through red tape and negotiate the best deal with voting system vendors. The department also is investigating and pursuing other funding options, including additional federal aid. MEDIA CONTACT: Wanda Murren, 717-783-1621 SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of State Related Links http://www.state.pa.us NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Phoenix Group and Telesto Digital announced today that they have successfully completed a merger to create eNOVA the next-generation medical communications company dedicated to eVolutionizing customer engagement. Current principals from both companies will continue to serve, each holding a Managing Partner role to comprise eNOVA's leadership team. The combined talent and expertise of the management team provides an unparalleled blend of innovation and insight. The Life Sciences market has evolved to a unified stakeholder-engagement model. eNOVA provides an end-to-end, integrated, customer-centric business model designed to advance science and medicine by transforming stakeholder engagement. Since 2002, Phoenix, a Medical Communications and Speakers Bureau company, has continued to adapt to market dynamics to maintain a leadership position in the industry. Telesto Digital's Radius Direct is a game-changing, cloud-based technology platform designed to unify engagement. The combination of strategically developed content and execution capabilities powered by advanced technology creates a unique resource for the Life Sciences Industry. eNVOA will enable clients to engage with the right balance of content to the right customer mix across the stakeholder ecosystem. Managing Partner, Engagement Performance, Bob Muratore, explained eNOVA's focus: "We are a team eVolutionizing medical communications with the power of transformative technology that propels engagement, interaction, and activation across the healthcare ecosystem." "Our mission is to help our clients transform engagement by connecting the many stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem with relevant content that advances patient health and wellness," added Tracy Doyle, Managing Partner, Engagement Strategy. Spearheading the development of cloud-based technology solutions is veteran, Al Mahafzah, Managing Partner, Engagement Technology: "Our vision is to become the strategic full-service stakeholder engagement company of choice." "We believe this merger will transform medical communications and customer engagement," said Angela Fiordilino, Managing Partner, Engagement Execution. www.TEAMeNOVA.com About eNOVA A strategic full-service stakeholder engagement company dedicated to eVolutionizing medical communications with the power of transformative technology that propels engagement, interaction, and activation across the healthcare ecosystem. About Phoenix Group Founded in 2002 by Tracy Doyle and Angela Fiordilino as an end-to-end service provider of medical communications and Speakers Bureau, Phoenix focused on introducing technologically advanced solutions for the new era of transparency and HCP engagement. The company grew to over 110 employees and positioned itself as a team with combined power of strategy, science, execution and technology to transform HCP Engagement. About Telesto Digital Founded in 2016 by Al Mahafzah and Bob Muratore, Telesto Digital is a Digital platform development company advancing digital engagement. Mahafzah is an accomplished digital strategist. Muratore, a longtime leader in the industry with over 35 years of healthcare and marketing communications experience, has built and rebuilt companies into some of the largest and most respected in the field. His expertise spans all pharma services, and his breadth of marketing and communications experience in the healthcare space reflects his proven capability in applying business expertise across market segments. Mahafzah and Muratore have been working together for more than a decade, making advancements in their respected fields as well as building a healthcare communications company prior to founding Telesto Digital. For more information contact Tracy Doyle 908-222-4802 or Bob Muratore 908-222-4831 [email protected] SOURCE eNOVA Related Links http://www.TEAMeNOVA.com SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- There's good news for employers who have not yet applied for the Employee Retention Benefit. The deadline to apply for the program has been extended to June 30th, 2019 for first time filers and July 14th, 2019 for anyone wishing to amend a previous filing. Benefits are awarded on a first come first served basis, so employers must act quickly to take advantage of this valuable program. "Synergi Partners Puerto Rico is pleased our work with the Hacienda, Secretary of Treasury of Puerto Rico and the United States Treasury Department resulted in an extension of the Employee Retention Benefit through June 30, 2019," said Jim Brown, CEO, Synergi Partners. "Employers should be grateful the respected officials in Puerto Rico and the United States took action to extend this deadline. This extension of time will allow all employers in Puerto Rico additional time to participate in this valuable program. Many businesses were tremendously impacted by the two devastating hurricanes and are entitled to file for the benefit." Leveraging its years of experience as an administrator of government business assistance programs and a tax credit services firm, Synergi Partners is the market leader and well positioned to assist local businesses in this program. We will manage the entire process with the Treasury, from application, appeal and benefit payment receipt. For more information on Synergi Partners please visit www.synergipartners.com/prdisaster. History of Employee Retention Benefit The Employee Retention Benefit was established in 2018 by the Puerto Rico Treasury Department and approved by the U.S. Secretary of Treasury to aid employers in Puerto Rico affected by Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria. For those employers who were able to retain employees after the disasters, they can claim a benefit of up to $1,920 for each qualified employee. The new deadline is June 30th, 2019 for first time filers and July 14th, 2019 for anyone wishing to amend a previous filing. About Synergi Partners: Thought leaders that make up Synergi Partners' executive team with over 200 years of combined experience have made significant contributions to the incentives industry. As tax credit veterans with years of experience and serving clients of all sizes in virtually all industries, Synergi Partners' focus is on assisting businesses in navigating federal and state tax credit programs. Synergi Partners' main goal is to provide the best service available to achieve maximum value for its clients. This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com. SOURCE Puerto Rico Treasury Department; Synergi Partners Related Links http://www.synergipartners.com LONDON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Radcliffe Group Ltd ("RG") announces Professor Andrew Coats (recently Academic Vice President, Monash University and University of Warwick) as Non-Executive Chairman and Dr. Gregory Guillory as Chief Scientific Officer, effective on April 1, 2019. Prof Andrew Coats and Dr. Gregory Guillory announced as Non-Executive Chairman and Chief Scientific Officer, respectively, of Radcliffe Group Ltd. Professor Andrew Coats (top right) is a world-renowned AustralianBritish academic cardiologist who has a particular interest in the management of heart failure. His research turned established teaching on its head, promoting exercise training (rather than bed rest) as a treatment for chronic heart failure. He is the current president-elect of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and has vast experience in cardiovascular education and publishing. Professor Coats served as editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Cardiology for nearly 20 years, until 2016, and is the current editor-in-chief of Cardiac Failure Review. In his capacity of Non-Executive Chairman, Professor Coats' main involvement is to ensure fiduciary duties are adhered to throughout and to provide counsel on a variety of business matters, including governance, business development and publishing best practices. Professor Andrew Coats comments: "I am delighted to be joining RG as Non-Executive Chairman after working with the stellar team on Cardiac Failure Review for the past four years. I look forward to continuing guiding this company in the future." Dr. Gregory Guillory (bottom right) started consulting with RG in 2017 to support the development of the company's scientific and educational offerings. Dr. Guillory received a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the Medical University of South Carolina and worked as an assistant professor of clinical pharmacy practice at the University of Louisiana. Greg has over 15 years of experience working for pharmaceutical companies in medical affairs roles, including as medical director and global scientific communications lead. As Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Guillory will play a key role in growing Radcliffe's educational and scientific outputs, as well as leading the medical strategy across all business initiatives. Dr. Guillory will also be a non-executive member of the RG board, providing oversight on wider business matters. Dr. Gregory Guillory comments: "After joining RG in a freelance capacity a couple of years ago, I am excited to join the team on a more formal basis. RG has been ever-increasing its impact and reach to further the education of cardiovascular physicians and other health care professionals. I look forward to being involved in the continuous growth of this dynamic team." About Radcliffe Group Ltd Radcliffe Group Ltd is an innovative media and publishing company passionate about e-learning. We support the continuous education of physicians within the cardiology and vascular fraternity, by offering physicians access to content through a variety of media formats stemming from industry-led peer-reviewed research journals, online webinars and roundtables, video interviews, live events and online medical courses. Radcliffe Group Ltd is the ultimate holding company of Radcliffe Medical Media and MMC Scientific. Radcliffe Medical Media holds Radcliffe Cardiology , Radcliffe Vascular and Radcliffe CME , publishing six free-to-access, peer-reviewed industry-leading review journals: Arrhythmia & Electrophysiology Review (AER), Cardiac Failure Review (CFR), European Cardiology Review (ECR), Interventional Cardiology Review (ICR), US Cardiology Review (USC) and Vascular & Endovascular Review (VER). Part of Radcliffe Group Ltd, MMC Scientific, the medical scientific communications agency, sits separately from Radcliffe Medical Media. Media Contact: Anne-Marie Benoy Phone: +44 (0)203 289 4942 Email: [email protected] Related Images prof-andrew-coats-top-and-dr.png Prof Andrew Coats (top) and Dr. Gregory Guillory (bottom). Prof Andrew Coats and Dr. Gregory Guillory announced as Non-Executive Chairman and Chief Scientific Officer, respectively, of Radcliffe Group Ltd. new-radcliffe-group-ltd-corporate.png New Radcliffe Group Ltd corporate structure. Related Links Radcliffe Group Ltd MMC Scientific SOURCE Radcliffe Group Ltd Related Links https://www.radcliffe-group.com "Since the 1980s, RTC has understood the potential of a trail like the Great American Rail-Trail that could connect the nation. That vision has been a guidepost for the organization for 30 years. Now, we have the chance to create from that vision a national treasure that unites millions of people over thousands of miles of trail," said Ryan Chao, president of RTC. "This trail is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to providetogetheran enduring gift to the nation that will bring joy for generations to come." The preferred route of the nation's first cross-country multiuse trail is detailed in a comprehensive report released by RTC today. The Great American Rail-Trail Route Assessment Report outlines RTC's recommendation for the route, developed in close partnership with states and local trail planners and managers. "When defining the preferred route of the Great American Rail-Trail, we sought a cross-country route that would provide the highest-quality experience while delivering significant economic and social benefits to the communities it connects," said Liz Thorstensen, vice president of trail development at RTC. "This route achieves those things and more, in large part thanks to the input, support and leadership of state agencies and local partners who have built the existing trails that will make the Great American Rail-Trail possible, and whose ongoing collaboration is vital to its completion." The route assessment was developed over 12 months with input from RTC's GIS analysis of more than 34,000 miles of multiuse trails; review of state and local trail plans; and discussions with hundreds of local trail partners and state agencies representing the trails along the route. The preferred route aligns with RTC's and its partners' criteria that specify the Great American be one contiguous route that is initially more than 80 percent, and ultimately entirely, off street and separated from vehicle traffic; comprises existing trails to the extent possible; is the most direct route possible between Washington, D.C., and Washington State; is amenable to the state and local jurisdictions that will host it; and will serve as a catalyst for local economic development, including providing services for long-distance trail travelers. Traveling through 12 states and the District of Columbia, RTC and its partners have defined the Great American Rail-Trail as more than 3,700 miles, comprising more than 1,900 miles of existing trailsthose trails already developed that will help carry the route across the countryand more than 1,700 miles of "trail gaps"sections of trail in need of development to fully connect the Great American into one contiguous route. As the nation's first cross-country multiuse trail, the Great American will connect people of all ages and abilities with America's diverse landscapes and communities. Nearly 50 million people living within 50 miles of its route will be able to call this iconic American infrastructure their own as the trail delivers new access to the outdoors and new opportunities for physical activity and recreation. Hundreds of communities along the route will experience new opportunities for business development and tourism thanks to the Great American Rail-Trail, all while contributing to the growth of the country's burgeoning outdoor economyone of the largest sectors in the United States. "We believe the Great American Rail-Trail will be a transformative project for the nation, as it magnifies on a grand scale the benefits that trails have delivered to communities for decades," said Chao. "Whether bridging gaps within and between communities, creating safe walking and biking access to jobs, transit, shopping and green space; or serving as recreation for cyclists, runners and casual daily explorers, this will be America's trail." While completion of the Great American Rail-Trail is a significant undertaking and several decades away, 52% of the path is already complete and available for public use, with plans for RTC to work in partnership with states and local jurisdictions and organizations to bring new segments online year after year. RTC and its partners view the route assessment as a blueprint for the trail's development that is based in the reality of existing plans and priorities. To spur trail completion, RTC has identified initial catalyst initiativesprojects or challenges that would most benefit from RTC's national breadth of resources. Through these initiatives, RTC will directly support local and state partners, investing time, expertise and organizational resources in specific projects that are critical to catalyzing the completion of the Great American Rail-Trail. RTC is also enlisting the support of trail lovers across the country to demonstrate national enthusiasm for the Great American's development. Setting a goal to reach 1 million pledges in support of the cross-country trail, RTC is asking the public to pledge at greatamericanrailtrail.org. "We know that it will take a significant investment of time, resources and energy to complete the Great American Rail-Trailbut it will be worth it. It will take the help of trail lovers and leaders to bring this vision to life," said Kevin Mills, RTC's vice president of policy. "Federal, state, local and private investment will all be needed to complete this project. To support the ongoing advocacy necessary to secure critical public resources, we hope everyone will be inspired to proudly pledge to show the widespread desire that exists for this trail." Today, in celebration of the Great American route reveal, RTC and its partners will host a series of cascading live events in select locations on trails along the preferred route, including Washington, D.C.; Columbus, Ohio; Three Forks, Montana; and South Cle Elum, Washington. These events will be broadcast live on RTC's Facebook Page (@railstotrails, #GRTAmerican) and at greatamericanrailtrail.org from 1 to 2 p.m. EDT (10 to 11 a.m. PDT). The Great American Rail-Trail is a signature project of RTC and the most ambitious in its portfolio of TrailNation projectsthe organization's initiative to encourage the rapid replication of regional trail networks across the country. The Great American was first envisioned at RTC in the late 1980s, and for decades has been an underpinning of the organization's strategy to create a nationwide network of public trails. To learn more about the Great American Rail-Trail and RTC and to view the preferred route, visit greatamericanrailtrail.org and follow @greatamericanrailtrail on Facebook and Instagram. It will take public and private support to complete the Great American Rail-Trail. To learn more about how you can support the project and RTC's national leadership to plan, organize and advocate for the trail, contact Alisa Borland, vice president of development at RTC, at [email protected] or 202.974.5126. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is the nation's largest trails organizationwith a grassroots community more than 1 million strongdedicated to connecting people and communities by creating a nationwide network of public trails, many from former rail lines. Connect with RTC at railstotrails.org and @railstotrails on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. CONTACT: Andrea Holliday, [email protected], 202.974.5130 Patricia Brooks, [email protected], 202.351.1757 SOURCE Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Related Links http://www.railstotrails.org LONDON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- ReNeuron Group plc (AIM: RENE), a global leader in the development of cell-based therapeutics, announced a year-end business update ahead of its preliminary results for the year ended March 31, 2019, which will be announced on Thursday, July 11, 2019. "We are greatly encouraged by the progress we have made with our cell therapy clinical development programs for retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and stroke disability since our interim financial results update last December. Both the hRPC and CTX studies are expected to continue to yield meaningful clinical data during the course of 2019 and 2020. We are pleased to be working with Fosun Pharma as our partner for China and are encouraged by the level of interest other potential collaborators are showing in all of our programs. We look forward to continuing to advance our clinical and business development activities in the months ahead," said Olav Helleb, Chief Executive Officer of ReNeuron. Recent Highlights from Clinical Programs hRPC for Retinal Disease ReNeuron has made significant progress advancing the clinical development of the Company's human retinal progenitor cell (hRPC) therapy candidate in the blindness-causing disease, retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Most recently, on April 26, 2019 , the Company reported positive preliminary data in the first cohort of the Phase 2a part of its study of hRPC in RP. All three subjects in the cohort demonstrated a rapid and sustained improvement in vision compared with their pre-treatment baseline. Dosing of the second cohort in the study is now complete. The second cohort comprised three patients with a greater baseline level of visual acuity than those patients earlier in the study. The clinical protocol for the study allows for up to 12 patients (four cohorts of three patients each) to be treated in the Phase 2a part of the study. The Company expects to treat the final six patients of the study this summer and to report data from all 12 of the Phase 2a subjects in the second half of this calendar year. These results will form the basis of the Company's interactions with the European and US regulatory authorities regarding the remaining clinical development path of hRPC for the treatment of RP. ReNeuron's RP clinical programme benefits from Orphan Drug Designation in both Europe and the U.S., as well as Fast Track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). ReNeuron has made significant progress advancing the clinical development of the Company's human retinal progenitor cell (hRPC) therapy candidate in the blindness-causing disease, retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Most recently, on , the Company reported positive preliminary data in the first cohort of the Phase 2a part of its study of hRPC in RP. All three subjects in the cohort demonstrated a rapid and sustained improvement in vision compared with their pre-treatment baseline. Dosing of the second cohort in the study is now complete. The second cohort comprised three patients with a greater baseline level of visual acuity than those patients earlier in the study. The clinical protocol for the study allows for up to 12 patients (four cohorts of three patients each) to be treated in the Phase 2a part of the study. The Company expects to treat the final six patients of the study this summer and to report data from all 12 of the Phase 2a subjects in the second half of this calendar year. These results will form the basis of the Company's interactions with the European and US regulatory authorities regarding the remaining clinical development path of hRPC for the treatment of RP. ReNeuron's RP clinical programme benefits from Orphan Drug Designation in both and the U.S., as well as Fast Track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). CTX for stroke disability ReNeuron is continuing to progress the clinical development of its CTX cell therapy candidate for stroke disability. In January 2019 , the Company announced that patient dosing had commenced in PISCES III, a randomised, placebo-controlled, Phase 2b clinical trial in 110 patients at up to 40 clinical trial sites in the U.S. ReNeuron is currently evaluating the optimum global development plan for the CTX cell therapy candidate for stroke disability. Subject to relevant regulatory approvals, the ongoing PISCES III study may be expanded to include clinical sites in China . On April 9, 2019 , the Company announced the signing of an exclusive licence agreement with Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Industrial Development Co., Ltd. ("Fosun Pharma") for the development, manufacture and commercialisation of ReNeuron's CTX and hRPC cell therapy programs in the People's Republic of China. Potential expansion of the PISCES III study into China would be conducted in conjunction with Fosun Pharma. Subject to finalization of the clinical development plan for CTX, and based on current patient recruitment and resource planning, ReNeuron expects to report top-line data from the PISCES III study during the second half of 2020, later than the original guidance of early 2020. The Company expects the PISCES III clinical trial, if positive, to be one of two pivotal studies required to support marketing authorisations for CTX in stroke disability. ReNeuron is continuing to progress the clinical development of its CTX cell therapy candidate for stroke disability. In , the Company announced that patient dosing had commenced in PISCES III, a randomised, placebo-controlled, Phase clinical trial in 110 patients at up to 40 clinical trial sites in the U.S. ReNeuron is currently evaluating the optimum global development plan for the CTX cell therapy candidate for stroke disability. Subject to relevant regulatory approvals, the ongoing PISCES III study may be expanded to include clinical sites in . On , the Company announced the signing of an exclusive licence agreement with Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Industrial Development Co., Ltd. ("Fosun Pharma") for the development, manufacture and commercialisation of ReNeuron's CTX and hRPC cell therapy programs in the People's Republic of China. Potential expansion of the PISCES III study into would be conducted in conjunction with Fosun Pharma. Subject to finalization of the clinical development plan for CTX, and based on current patient recruitment and resource planning, ReNeuron expects to report top-line data from the PISCES III study during the second half of 2020, later than the original guidance of early 2020. The Company expects the PISCES III clinical trial, if positive, to be one of two pivotal studies required to support marketing authorisations for CTX in stroke disability. Exosome Technology ReNeuron is pursuing opportunities to capitalise on the significant scientific and life sciences industry interest in exosomes by forming near-term, value-generating, business partnerships covering the Company's exosome technology. ExoPr0, the first CTX-derived exosome candidate arising from this technology, is being developed as a novel vector for delivering third party biological drugs. In January 2019 , ReNeuron signed a collaboration agreement with a US-based biopharmaceutical company to explore the use of the Company's exosome technology to create delivery vehicles for synthetic oligonucleotides used in gene therapy. ReNeuron is in active discussions with other commercial third parties regarding potential collaboration agreements for the Company's exosome technology. Business Development Activities ReNeuron's technologies and therapeutic programs have increasingly attracted the interest of commercial third parties, as demonstrated by the Company's recent licence agreement with Fosun Pharma. The Company is in discussions with other commercial third parties regarding potential collaboration and/or out-licensing deals across ReNeuron's programs. Financial Results ReNeuron's unaudited financial results for the year ended March 31, 2019 remain in line with the Board's previous expectations. The Company had unaudited cash, cash equivalents and bank deposits totalling 26.39 million as of March 31, 2019 (March 31, 2018 audited: 37.41 million). The Directors expect that the Company's current financial resources, combined with the 6.0 million upfront fee and near-term milestone income from the above-mentioned licence agreement with Fosun Pharma, will be sufficient to support operations for at least the next 12 months from the date of this announcement. Notification of Preliminary Results ReNeuron will announce its preliminary results for the year ended March 31, 2019 on Thursday, July 11, 2019. A meeting for analysts will be held at 10.00am BST (5:00 a.m. ET) on the morning of the announcement, at the offices of Buchanan, 107 Cheapside, London EC2V 6DN. Further details regarding the analyst meeting will be announced in due course. About ReNeuron ReNeuron is a global leader in cell-based therapeutics, harnessing its unique stem cell technologies to develop 'off-the-shelf' stem cell treatments, without the need for immunosuppressive drugs. The Company's lead clinical-stage candidates are in development for disability as a result of stroke and for the blindness-causing disease, retinitis pigmentosa. ReNeuron is also advancing its proprietary exosome technology platform as a potential delivery system for drugs that would otherwise be unable to reach their site of action. ReNeuron's shares are traded on the London AIM market under the symbol RENE.L. Further information on ReNeuron and its products can be found at www.reneuron.com. This announcement contains forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business achievements/performance of ReNeuron and certain of the plans and objectives of management of ReNeuron with respect thereto. These statements may generally, but not always, be identified by the use of words such as "should", "expects", "estimates", "believes" or similar expressions. This announcement also contains forward-looking statements attributed to certain third parties relating to their estimates regarding the growth of markets and demand for products. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty because they reflect ReNeuron's current expectations and assumptions as to future events and circumstances that may not prove accurate. A number of factors could cause ReNeuron's actual financial condition, results of operations and business achievements/performance to differ materially from the estimates made or implied in such forward-looking statements and, accordingly, reliance should not be placed on such statements. SOURCE ReNeuron Group plc Related Links http://www.reneuron.com SANTIAGO, Chile, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Chile announced today the commencement of an offer to purchase for cash (the " Tender Offer ") debt securities of the series listed in the table below (the " Old Bonds " and each Old Bonds, a "series" of Old Bonds). The aggregate Purchase Price (as defined below) to be paid for the Old Bonds tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Tender Offer will be determined by Chile in its sole discretion (the " Maximum Purchase Amount "). The terms and conditions of the Tender Offer are set forth in an offer to purchase, dated Wednesday, May 8, 2019, 2019 (the " Offer to Purchase "). The Tender Offer is being made concurrently with an offer to exchange Local Bonds (as defined below) for New Bonds (as defined below) to the public in Chile. Old Bonds Outstanding Principal Amount as of Wednesday, May 8, 2019 ISIN CUSIP Common Code 4.5% Bonds due February 28, 2021 (" February 2021 Bonds ") Ps. 931,295,000,000(1) CL0002329671 N/A 155159847 4.5% Bonds due March 1, 2021 (" March 2021 Bonds " and together with the February 2021 Bonds, the " Local Bonds ") Ps. 2,522,020,000,000(2) CL0002269331 N/A 156267333 CLP-Denominated 5.50% Bonds due 2020 (" 2020 Bonds ") Ps. 434,345,000,000 US168863AU21 168863 AU2 053154590 (1) Includes February 2021 Bonds held in Chile, which are the subject of a local exchange offer in Chile. (2) Includes March 2021 Bonds held in Chile, which are the subject of a local exchange offer in Chile. The Tender Offer is not conditioned upon any minimum participation of any series of Old Bonds, but is conditioned on the pricing and closing of a global offering that consists of an offering to the public in Chile, and an offer and sale of bonds to investors outside of Chile pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, of Chile's existing Chilean Peso-denominated 4.00% Bonds due March 1, 2023 (the " 2023 Bonds "), 4.70% Bonds due September 1, 2030 (the " 2030 Bonds ") and 5.10% Bonds due July 15, 2050 (the " 2050 Bonds " and, together with the 2023 Bonds and the 2030 Bonds the " New Bonds ") in an amount, with pricing and on terms and conditions acceptable to Chile in its sole discretion, with pricing terms expected to be announced on or about Wednesday, May 15, 2019 (such offering of New Bonds to investors outside of Chile the " New Bonds Offering "). The Tender Offer commenced at 8:00 a.m., New York time, on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 and, unless extended or earlier terminated by Chile in its sole discretion, will expire at 8:00 a.m., New York time, on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 (the " Tender Period "). Subject to pricing and closing of the New Bonds Offering and the other terms and conditions set forth in the Offer to Purchase, and subject to change by Chile, the settlement of the Tender Offer is expected to occur on Friday, May 17, 2019 (the " Tender Offer Settlement Date "). At or around 6:00 p.m., New York time, on Monday, May 13, 2019, or as soon as possible thereafter, Chile will announce the purchase price per Ps. 1,000,000 principal amount of Old Bonds of each series (the " Purchase Price "). Payment for any tendered Old Bonds accepted by Chile, together with an amount in cash corresponding to accrued and unpaid interest, accrued at the rates contemplated in each series of Old Bonds to but excluding the Tender Offer Settlement Date, will be made after and conditioned upon the pricing and closing of the New Bonds Offering. Payment of the Purchase Price and accrued interest for Old Bonds accepted for purchase in the Offer will be made in U.S. dollars, calculated at the Observado rate published in the Diario Oficial on Wednesday, May 15, 2019, which is the same rate at which New Bonds sold in the New Bonds Offering will be converted to U.S. dollars. Holders of 2020 Bonds are advised that the exchange rate used to calculate accrued interest in U.S. dollars is different from the rate set forth in the terms and conditions of the 2020 Bonds. You may only submit tenders through Euroclear System (" Euroclear "), Clearstream Banking, societe anonyme, Luxembourg (" Clearstream "). You will NOT be able to submit tenders through the Depository Trust Company (" DTC ") or Deposito Central de Valores S.A., Deposito de Valores (" DCV "). You must comply with the applicable procedures of Euroclear and Clearstream including arranging for a direct participant in Euroclear or Clearstream to deliver a valid electronic acceptance instruction (" Electronic Acceptance Instruction "), which includes the proper blocking and debit irrevocable instructions, to Euroclear or Clearstream, as applicable. If you are a beneficial owner whose Old Bonds are held by a broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee (each, a " Nominee ") and you desire to tender the Old Bonds in the Tender Offer, you must contact your Nominee and instruct such Nominee, as holder of the Old Bonds, to tender the Old Bonds on your behalf. The deadlines set by Euroclear, Clearstream or any such intermediary for the submission of tenders of Old Bonds may be earlier than the relevant deadlines specified in the Offer to Purchase. For further information on the procedures to tender Old Bonds, please refer to the Offer to Purchase and/or call the Tender and Information Agent at its telephone numbers set forth below or consult your Nominee for assistance. Valid tenders made in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Offer (" Tender Orders ") may be withdrawn on or prior to 8:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, 2019 (the " Withdrawal Deadline "), unless the Withdrawal Deadline is extended or earlier terminated. A valid withdrawal of Old Bonds on or prior to the Withdrawal Deadline will result in the holder not being eligible to receive the Purchase Price or any accrued interest pursuant to the Tender Offer. Tender Orders may be subject to proration. Chile may prorate Tender Orders for each series of Old Bonds differently, in its sole discretion. If Tender Orders of a series are subject to proration, Chile will give priority to Tender Orders of tendering holders that quote an allocation identifier code, but only to the extent that the Purchase Price and accrued interest of such Tender Orders (together with the Purchase Price and accrued interest of Tender Offers of Old Bonds of any other series) does not exceed the purchase price of the aggregate principal amount of any New Bonds actually allocated to and purchased by such tendering holder in the New Bonds Offering. Tendering holders that intend to subscribe for New Bonds can obtain an allocation identifier code by contacting any of the Dealer Managers. At or around 8:00 a.m., New York time, on Thursday, May 16, 2019, or as soon as possible thereafter, Chile will announce the Maximum Purchase Amount for each series, the aggregate principal amount of Preferred Tenders (as defined below) and, if any, Non-Preferred Tenders (as defined below) of each series of Old Bonds that has been accepted, whether any Tender Orders will be prorated and the exchange rate at which the Purchase Price and any accrued interest for Old Bonds accepted for purchase will be calculated. "Preferred Tenders" means the Tender Orders for a series of Old Bonds submitted by a holder that also submits a corresponding indication of interest in the New Bonds Offering and has obtained and transmitted an allocation identifier code, but only to the extent that the Purchase Price and accrued interest of such Tender Orders (together with the Purchase Price and accrued interest of Tender Orders of Old Bonds of any other series) does not exceed the purchase price of the aggregate principal amount of any New Bonds actually allocated to and purchased by such tendering holder in the New Bonds Offering. The balance, if any, of such Tender Order will constitute a Non-Preferred Tender, as described below. "Non-Preferred Tender" means any Tender Order (or portion thereof) that is not a Preferred Tender. Non-Preferred Tenders include, among others, Tender Orders submitted by a holder that does not submit a corresponding Indication of Interest in the New Bonds Offering as well as the portion of any Tender Order received (with a corresponding Indication of Interest in the New Bonds Offering) that would not constitute a Preferred Tender. If the aggregate Purchase Price of all Preferred Tenders for a series is equal to the Maximum Purchase Amount applicable to such series then all Preferred Tenders shall be accepted for such series and no Non-Preferred Tenders shall be accepted for such series. If the aggregate Purchase Price of all Preferred Tenders for a series is less than the Maximum Purchase Amount applicable to such series then (i) all Preferred Tenders shall be accepted for such series, and, (ii) with respect to the portion of the Maximum Purchase Amount remaining after the acceptance of all Preferred Tenders for such series, each tendering holder shall have its Non-Preferred Tenders for such series of Old Bonds prorated down, proportionate to the relative size of each such holder's Non-Preferred Tenders of that series of Old Bonds to all Non-Preferred Tenders, subject to any adjustments, if necessary, to avoid purchase of the Old Bonds in principal amounts other than minimum denominations. The Tender Offer is subject to Chile's right, in its sole discretion, to extend, terminate, withdraw or amend its terms at any time. Chile reserves the right, in its sole discretion not to accept any Tender Orders, or to accept Tender Orders as to one or more series of Old Bonds but no other series, for any reason. The Offer to Purchase may be downloaded from the Tender and Information Agent's website at https://www.gbsc-usa.com/chile/ or obtained from the Tender and Information Agent, Global Bondholder Services Corporation in New York, at 65 Broadway Suite 404, New York, NY 10006 (Banks and Brokers call collect: (212) 430-3774; all others call Toll-Free: (866)-470-4500) Attention: Corporate Actions (email: [email protected]), or from any of the Dealer Managers. The Dealer Managers for the Tender Offer are: Itau BBA USA Securities, Inc. Santander Investment Securities Inc. Scotia Capital (USA) Inc. 540 Madison Avenue, 23rd Floor New York, New York 10022 United States Attention: Debt Capital Markets 45 E 53rd Street, 5th Floor New York, New York 10022 United States Attention: Liability Management Team 250 Vesey Street New York, New York 10281 United States Attention: Debt Capital Markets Collect: +1 (212) 710-6749 Toll-free: +1 (888) 770-4828 Collect: +1 (855) 404-3636 Toll-free: +1 (212) 940-1442 Collect: +1 (212) 225-5559 Toll-free: +1 (800) 372-3930 Questions regarding the Tender Offer may be directed to the Dealer Managers at the above contact. Contact information: Global Bondholder Services Corporation 65 Broadway Suite 404 New York, NY 10006 Banks and Brokers Call: (212) 430-3774 All Others Call: (866)-470-4500 NONE OF CHILE, THE DEALER MANAGERS OR THE TENDER AND INFORMATION AGENT MAKES ANY RECOMMENDATION THAT ANY HOLDER TENDER OR REFRAIN FROM TENDERING ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF SUCH HOLDER'S OLD BONDS OR THAT ANY HOLDER SUBMIT OR CHOOSE NOT TO SUBMIT AN INDICATION OF INTEREST IN THE NEW BONDS IN CONNECTION WITH SUCH A TENDER, AND NO ONE HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED BY ANY OF THEM TO MAKE SUCH A RECOMMENDATION. HOLDERS MUST MAKE THEIR OWN DECISIONS WHETHER TO TENDER OLD BONDS, AND, IF SO, THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF OLD BONDS TO TENDER AND WHETHER TO SUBMIT AN INDICATION OF INTEREST IN THE NEW BONDS IN CONNECTION WITH SUCH A TENDER. Important Notice The New Bonds Offering will be made solely by means of an offering memorandum relating to that offering, and this announcement does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an order to buy any New Bonds. You may not participate in the New Bonds Offering unless you have received and reviewed the offering memorandum related to that offering, and not in reliance on, or on the basis of, this announce or the Offer to Purchase. The New Bonds will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction and will be offered in the United States only to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act and to non-U.S. persons outside the United States in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act. This announcement is not an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell the Old Bonds. The Tender Offer will be made only by and pursuant to the terms of the Offer to Purchase, as may be amended or supplemented from time to time. The distribution of materials relating to the New Bonds Offering and the Tender Offer, and the transactions contemplated by the New Bonds Offering and Tender Offer, may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. The Tender Offer is made only in those jurisdictions where it is legal to do so. The Tender Offer is void in all jurisdictions where it is prohibited. If materials relating to the New Bonds Offering or the Tender Offer come into your possession, you are required to inform yourself of and to observe all of these restrictions. The materials relating to the New Bonds Offering and the Tender Offer, including this communication, do not constitute, and may not be used in connection with, an offer or solicitation in any place where offers or solicitations are not permitted by law. If a jurisdiction requires that the New Bonds Offering or the Tender Offer be made by a licensed broker or dealer and a Dealer Manager or any affiliate of a Dealer Manager is a licensed broker or dealer in that jurisdiction, the New Bonds Offering or the Tender Offer, as the case may be, shall be deemed to be made by the Dealer Manager or such affiliate in that jurisdiction. Owners who may lawfully participate in the Tender Offer in accordance with the terms thereof are referred to as "holders." This announcement and the offer to purchase contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Chile's beliefs and expectations. These statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and therefore you should not place undue reliance on them. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Chile undertakes no obligation to update any of them in light of new information or future events. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Chile cautions you that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. ANY DISCLAIMERS OR OTHER NOTICES THAT MAY APPEAR AFTER THIS MESSAGE ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO THIS COMMUNICATION AND SHOULD BE DISREGARDED. SUCH DISCLAIMERS OR OTHER NOTICES WERE AUTOMATICALLY GENERATED AS A RESULT OF THIS COMMUNICATION BEING SENT VIA BLOOMBERG OR ANOTHER EMAIL SYSTEM. SOURCE Republic of Chile VANCOUVER, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - The Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders (the "Meeting") of Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Incorporated (the "Company", NYSE and TSX: RBA) was held on May 7, 2019 in Burnaby, British Columbia. Each of the matters voted upon at the Meeting is discussed in detail in the Company's Proxy Statement dated March 27, 2019, which can be found on the Company's website at: https://s2.q4cdn.com/965716280/files/doc_financials/annual_reports/2019/RitchieBros-2019-Proxy-Press-Final.pdf Per TSX reporting requirements, the company wishes to disclose that the total number of shares represented by shareholders in person and by proxy at the Meeting was 58,549,277 shares, representing approximately 53.74% of the Company's outstanding shares. The voting in relation to the election of directors was conducted by way of ballot at the Meeting and the results were as follows: Name of Director Votes For Votes Withheld Beverley Briscoe 53,939,625 540,604 Robert G. Elton 54,147,328 332,902 J. Kim Fennell 53,910,005 570,224 Erik Olsson 37,400,896 17,079,334 Sarah Raiss 53,716,711 763,519 Ravi K. Saligram 54,185,866 294,364 Amy G. Shenkan 54,188,067 292,162 Christopher Zimmerman 53,831,444 648,787 On May 8, 2019, the Company filed a report of voting results on all resolutions voted on at the Meeting on www.sedar.com. About Ritchie Bros. Established in 1958, Ritchie Bros. (NYSE and TSX: RBA) is a global asset management and disposition company, offering customers end-to-end solutions for buying and selling used heavy equipment, trucks and other assets. Operating in a number of sectors, including construction, transportation, agriculture, energy, oil and gas, mining, and forestry, the company's selling channels include: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer offers live auction events with online bidding; IronPlanet, an online marketplace with featured weekly auctions and providing the exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification; Marketplace-E, a controlled marketplace offering multiple price and timing options; Mascus, a leading European online equipment listing service; and Ritchie Bros. Private Treaty, offering privately negotiated sales. The company's suite of multichannel sales solutions also includes RB Asset Solutions, a complete end-to-end asset management and disposition system. Ritchie Bros. also offers sector-specific solutions including GovPlanet, TruckPlanet, and Kruse Energy Auctioneers, plus equipment financing and leasing through Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. For more information about Ritchie Bros., visit RitchieBros.com. SOURCE Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Related Links http://www.rbauction.com TSX: RMX |OTCQX: RBYCF TORONTO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Rubicon Minerals Corporation (TSX: RMX |OTCQX: RBYCF) ("Rubicon" or the "Company") announces that it has filed its interim Financial Statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") for the three-month period ended March 31, 2019. The Company confirms that copies of these interim filings can be obtained at www.rubiconminerals.com or www.sedar.com. Highlights from the three-month ended March 31, 2019 Cash position: As of March 31, 2019 , the Company had cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of approximately C$11 million . As of May 7, 2019 , the Company has cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of approximately C$8.3 million . As of , the Company had cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of approximately . As of , the Company has cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of approximately . Exploration and evaluation expenditures: For the three-month period ended March 31, 2019 , the Company spent approximately C$3.5 million in expenditures related to underground development, drilling, maintenance and technical consulting fees, offset by C$0.5 million in proceeds recognized from the sale of precious metals. Expenditures were lower by C$1.6 million compared to prior three-month period when the Company was ramping up spending on the mill facility for the duration of the bulk sample processing program. For the three-month period ended , the Company spent approximately in expenditures related to underground development, drilling, maintenance and technical consulting fees, offset by in proceeds recognized from the sale of precious metals. Expenditures were lower by compared to prior three-month period when the Company was ramping up spending on the mill facility for the duration of the bulk sample processing program. General and administrative expenses (including salaries and benefits, and consulting and professional fees): The Company spent approximately C$1 million on expenditures related to general and administrative, salaries and benefits, and consulting and professional fees in Q1/2019. Expenditures decreased by C$0.7 million compared to Q1/2018 primarily related to lower compensation expenses and consulting and professional fees. The Company spent approximately on expenditures related to general and administrative, salaries and benefits, and consulting and professional fees in Q1/2019. Expenditures decreased by compared to Q1/2018 primarily related to lower compensation expenses and consulting and professional fees. 2019 Mineral Resource Estimate reported 110% increase in Measured and Indicated Resources: On March 27, 2019 , Rubicon reported a significantly improved updated Mineral Resource Estimate that demonstrated material increases in tonnes, grade, and ounces and a robust conversion rate of Inferred Resources to the Measured and Indicated Categories. The NI 43-101 Technical Report for the Phoenix Gold Project was filed on SEDAR pursuant to the Rubicon press release dated March 27, 2019 announcing the results of the 2019 Mineral Resource Estimate for the F2 Gold Deposit at the Project. Please review these materials for further information. Please refer to our interim Financial Statements and MD&A for the quarter-ended March 31, 2019 for further details. About Rubicon Minerals Corporation Rubicon Minerals Corporation is an advanced gold exploration company that owns the Phoenix Gold Project, located in the prolific Red Lake gold district in northwestern Ontario, Canada. Additionally, Rubicon controls the second largest land package in Red Lake consisting of over 285 square kilometres of prime, strategic exploration ground, and more than 900 square kilometres of mineral property interests in the emerging Long Canyon gold district that straddles the Nevada-Utah border in the United States. Rubicon's shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (RMX) and the OTCQX markets (RBYCF). For more information, please visit our website at www.rubiconminerals.com. RUBICON MINERALS CORPORATION George Ogilvie, P.Eng. President, CEO, and Director The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE Rubicon Minerals Corporation Related Links www.rubiconminerals.com LINKOPING, Sweden, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Saab announces a new site for advanced manufacturing and production in West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America. The site will be located at the Purdue University-affiliated Discovery Park District. Saab intends to invest US$ 37 million over the coming years from 2020. The initial focus for the site will be aeronautical engineering; producing major structural sections and final assembly of the Saab parts of the T-X advanced jet trainer, developed by Boeing and Saab for the United States Air Force. Saab has entered into a partnership with the Purdue University, and through this intends to expand its U.S. based Research and Development within possible areas such as sensor systems, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. Today's announcement was presented at a ceremony held at Purdue University Airport in West Lafayette together with State of Indiana Governor Eric J Holcomb, Purdue University President Mitch Daniels and Saab President and CEO Hakan Buskhe. "This is a historic moment for Saab. After careful consideration, we have chosen West Lafayette, thanks to the visionary leadership of both the State of Indiana and the world-leading Purdue University. Today's announcement is a part of our growth strategy in the United States, and deepens our relationship with the U.S. customer. We see great possibilities here for this facility and our partnerships", says Saab President and CEO Hakan Buskhe. Construction of the new site is expected to begin in 2020. Hiring of local employees will also start during 2020 and Saab will initially create up to 300 new full-time positions for Indiana resident employees at the site. With its North American headquarters in Syracuse, NY, this facility will mean Saab has U.S.-based business units in a total of five states. For further information, please contact: Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018 [email protected] Conal Walker, Media Relations Manager +447747 857 997 [email protected] www.saabgroup.com www.saabgroup.com/YouTube Follow us on twitter: @saab Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions within military defence and civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents around the world. Through innovative, collaborative and pragmatic thinking, Saab develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers' changing needs. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/saab/r/saab-announces-new-u-s--site-for-advanced-manufacturing-and-production,c2806852 The following files are available for download: SOURCE Saab NEWTOWN, Conn., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Sandy Hook Promise praises U.S. Congressmen Scott Peters (D-CA-52) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) for today's introduction of the Suicide and Threat Assessment Nationally Dedicated to Universal Prevention (STANDUP) Act. If passed, the bill would encourage select states to expand access to evidence-based suicide prevention training to every student in grades 6 through 12 and train schools in proven school threat assessment models that provide guidelines for threat identification, triage, and intervention, as well as established procedures and protocols for coordinating with local law enforcement. "The rates of youth suicide and violence occurring in our country's schools are appalling. We know that with proper training and threat assessment teams embedded in schools that self-harm, violence, and suicide can be preventable. We are proud to partner with these bipartisan champions to pass this critical legislation to ensure that more youth and adults 'know the signs' to properly intervene before a tragedy can occur and we urge Congress to pass this bill," said Mark Barden, co-founder and managing director of Sandy Hook Promise and father of Daniel who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting. "Gun violence and suicide are public health crises in our country. A whole generation of children are now afraid to go to school and think mass school shootings are the norm. We need only to look at the pictures from Colorado yesterday to understand that we must prioritize early prevention, heed warning signs, and give educators and administrators the tools to stop violence before it happens. This bipartisan bill, with the support of Sandy Hook Promise, takes a commonsense, evidence-based approach to address the root problems our students face that can turn them to violence and suicide," said Rep. Peters. "There is no higher priority than keeping our children safe. By providing high quality screening and prevention training to school staff and peers, we can identify threats before they materialize, and ensure that those who are at risk get the mental health treatment they need. Sadly, some communities in my district are among those with the highest suicide rates in our state. With training like this, we can help reverse that troubling trend," said Rep. Bilirakis. About Sandy Hook Promise: Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) is a national nonprofit organization based in Newtown, Connecticut and led by several family members whose loved ones were killed in the tragic mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012. SHP's mission is to prevent gun violence (and other forms of violence and victimization) BEFORE it can happen by educating and mobilizing youth and adults to identify, intervene, and get help for at-risk individuals. SHP is a moderate, above-the-politics organization that supports sensible program and policy solutions that address the "human side" of gun violence by preventing individuals from ever getting to the point of picking up a firearm to hurt themselves or others. Our words, actions, and impact nationwide are intended to honor all victims of gun violence by turning our tragedy into a moment of transformation. For more information, visit www.sandyhookpromise.org or call 203-304-9780. Media Contact: Dini von Mueffing Communications | Stephanie Morris | [email protected] | 646-650-5005 SOURCE Sandy Hook Promise Related Links http://www.sandyhookpromise.org The Sanya branded yacht, which will include carefully selected Sanya crew, will represent the city and China on the race route around the world and will be used as a platform for promotion of China's fast-developing holiday destination and sailing centre in major ports of call such as Cape Town, Sydney and New York. Scottish sailor Seumas Kellock has been announced as the professional skipper who will lead the Visit Sanya, China, team when it defends its title in the Clipper 2019-20 Round the World Yacht Race. At just 26 years old, Seumas, from Edinburgh, Scotland, will be the youngest of the eleven-strong line up of Clipper 2019-20 Race Skippers who will lead over 700 non-professional crew members over 40,000 nautical miles around the globe. Seumas has first-hand experience of the beautiful tropical paradise that is Sanya, after visiting the island city during the Clipper 2017-18 Race Stopover. He said: "I am so pleased to be the Visit Sanya, China, Clipper Race Skipper for the 2019-20 edition. I have visited Sanya before, and can't wait to share my first-hand experiences of the amazing holiday destination around the world and help promote its newly-acquired free trade zone." Located on the southern tip of Hainan Island, in South China, the upscale tropical paradise of Sanya will be the first of three Chinese host ports visited by the fleet during the Clipper 2019-20 Race route. Boasting over 250 km of picture-perfect sandy beaches lined with coconut palms, 300 days of sunshine per year, and visa-free entry for 59 countries, including the UK, China's idyllic holiday destination lives up to its reputation as the 'Hawaii of China'. Seumas and the Visit Sanya team will help to promote Sanya's tourism, sustainability and free trade zone objectives through events and media opportunities as he leads his team around the world. SOURCE Sanya Tourism Development Commission NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Purcell Julie & Lefkowitz LLP, a class action law firm dedicated to representing shareholders nationwide, is investigating a potential breach of fiduciary duty claim involving the board of directors of Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc. (NYSE: CFR). If you are a shareholder of Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc. and are interested in obtaining additional information regarding this investigation, free of charge, please visit us at: http://pjlfirm.com/cullenfrost-bankers-inc/ You may also contact Robert H. Lefkowitz, Esq. either via email at [email protected] or by telephone at 212-725-1000. One of our attorneys will personally speak with you about the case at no cost or obligation. Purcell Julie & Lefkowitz LLP is a law firm exclusively committed to representing shareholders nationwide who are victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty and other types of corporate misconduct. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://pjlfirm.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. SOURCE Purcell Julie & Lefkowitz LLP Related Links http://www.pjlfirm.com NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Purcell Julie & Lefkowitz LLP, a class action law firm dedicated to representing shareholders nationwide, is investigating a potential breach of fiduciary duty claim involving the board of directors of Penske Automotive Group, Inc. (NYSE: PAG). If you are a shareholder of Penske Automotive Group, Inc. and are interested in obtaining additional information regarding this investigation, free of charge, please visit us at: http://pjlfirm.com/penske-automotive-group-inc/ You may also contact Robert H. Lefkowitz, Esq. either via email at [email protected] or by telephone at 212-725-1000. One of our attorneys will personally speak with you about the case at no cost or obligation. Purcell Julie & Lefkowitz LLP is a law firm exclusively committed to representing shareholders nationwide who are victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty and other types of corporate misconduct. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit http://pjlfirm.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. SOURCE Purcell Julie & Lefkowitz LLP Related Links http://www.pjlfirm.com NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- A former Forever 21 employee has sued her managers for wrongful termination citing discrimination, harassment and retaliation. Dennis "Paris" Naranjo, who is transgender, claims she suffered repeated harassment at the hands of her former managers. Naranjo began working at the Northridge store as a sales associate in April of 2017. She initially identified herself as "no gender" on her application, requiring co-workers to respond to her using "they" and "them" pronouns. Upon realizing co-workers were having difficulty, Naranjo identified herself as female, asking associates to use female pronouns and refer to her as "Paris," as opposed to her legal name of Dennis. Naranjo claims that multiple co-workers drew attention to and made disparaging remarks regarding her genitalia, commented on her HR-sanctioned use of the women's restroom, and referred to her by male pronouns to customers. Naranjo asserts that she was called "perverted," "disgusting," a "clown," "creep," and "wannabe female," all because she was transgender. Naranjo states that she was singled out for "dressing inappropriately" when she was comparably dressed to other female employees. In the months that followed, Naranjo was also criticized for not working in her designated area and incorrectly communicating with customers, although she says she followed procedure. Forever 21 terminated Naranjo's employment in August 2018, saying that she had not shown up for two previously scheduled shifts, which Naranjo has said she did not receive when she had called for her schedule. Naranjo claims that the treatment she endured at Forever 21 has resulted in severe emotional distress and loss of wages. Carney Shegerian, the founder of Los Angeles-based employee rights law firm Shegerian & Associates, and Naranjo's attorney, has weighed in on the suit. "The harassment and retaliation that Dennis faced at Forever 21 is unacceptable," Shegerian says. "All employees should have a workplace free of harassment." About Shegerian & Associates: Shegerian & Associates has won clients over $300 million in employment-based disputes and maintains a 98% success rate. We have offices in Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside and New York. Media Contact: Pace Public Relations Kara Ryan [email protected] SOURCE Shegerian & Associates Related Links www.shegerianlaw.com SAN FRANCISCO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Sitecore, the global leader in digital experience management software, today announced its intention to acquire Hedgehog Development, a customer and partner-focused digital consultancy. The acquisition will accelerate Sitecore's growth and bolster the people, technology, and services resources supporting Sitecore Solution Partners as they continue to solve customers' most critical digital transformation challenges. "Sitecore's success has been built hand-in-hand with our dedicated partners. The addition of Hedgehog strengthens this community and supports Sitecore's revenue growth, as well as the growth of our partners," said Mark Frost, CEO of Sitecore. "With Hedgehog, we add a team that brings an innovative culture and critical front-line implementation expertise that increases our ability to scale in the key areas of services, training, and support. These new resources will improve our ability to help customers accelerate their digital transformation, maximize their Sitecore investments, and realize the full potential of important Sitecore features such as advanced personalization." Hedgehog has a long history of commitment to Sitecore technology, as well as ongoing support of the Sitecore community. The company was the first agency to become an Implementation and Technology partner with Sitecore and, in 2014, was awarded the first lifetime Sitecore Partner Community Contribution Award in recognition of their landmark contribution to organizing and executing the Sitecore Virtual Summit. With an already existing deep expertise in Sitecore technology, Hedgehog will enable Sitecore and its Sitecore Solution Partners to quickly: Increase the scale of Sitecore Professional Services and SBOS: Hedgehog will add significant expertise to immediately broaden the capabilities of Sitecore Professional Services and SBOS as well as augment Sitecore Solution Partners' design, strategy, and implementation services. This will help customers speed deployment time, minimize unnecessary costs, and overcome complexity in their IT environment. Hedgehog will add significant expertise to immediately broaden the capabilities of Sitecore Professional Services and SBOS as well as augment Sitecore Solution Partners' design, strategy, and implementation services. This will help customers speed deployment time, minimize unnecessary costs, and overcome complexity in their IT environment. Expand developer tooling: Hedgehog is the creator of the widely-used Team Development for Sitecore Essential Suite of products, which help reduce deployment time, improve productivity, and ease implementations for Sitecore Solutions. Sitecore intends to incorporate these tools more deeply within its product offerings. In particular, partners and customers will benefit from greater access to TDS Classic, which reduces deployment time and helps ensure alignment to Sitecore best practices, and Avtor, which improves productivity and usability for Sitecore content editors and strategists. Hedgehog is the creator of the widely-used Team Development for Sitecore Essential Suite of products, which help reduce deployment time, improve productivity, and ease implementations for Sitecore Solutions. Sitecore intends to incorporate these tools more deeply within its product offerings. In particular, partners and customers will benefit from greater access to TDS Classic, which reduces deployment time and helps ensure alignment to Sitecore best practices, and Avtor, which improves productivity and usability for Sitecore content editors and strategists. Enhance training capabilities: To rapidly accelerate Sitecore Solution Partners' time-to-proficiency and simplify the path to become Sitecore experts on newer product offerings, Hedgehog's product implementation expertise will supplement Sitecore's education and certification programs to train, mentor, and support partners on products such as Sitecore Experience Commerce and Sitecore Content Hub. To rapidly accelerate Sitecore Solution Partners' time-to-proficiency and simplify the path to become Sitecore experts on newer product offerings, Hedgehog's product implementation expertise will supplement Sitecore's education and certification programs to train, mentor, and support partners on products such as Sitecore Experience Commerce and Sitecore Content Hub. Strengthen partner enablement programs: Hedgehog adds to Sitecore's capacity to enable partners across geographies, particularly in areas including improved documentation and training on best practices. "We are very excited about continuing our journey with a company that appreciates our culture, reflects our values, and shares our vision to help customers transform their businesses so they can meet the digital requirements of today and the future," said Dan Galvez, CEO of Hedgehog. "Moreover, we value the relationships Sitecore has built with its implementation partners and we look forward to the opportunity to extend our support for the Sitecore community. Most of all, we are ready to join Sitecore to help deliver the best possible experience and outcomes for our customers and partners." According to Sitecore Solution Partner EPAM, "With the acquisition of Hedgehog, Sitecore will be better positioned to help EPAM meet our customers' complex demands by unlocking the full potential of Sitecore's platform," said Elaina Shekhter, CMO & head of strategy of EPAM. "We have a truly strategic digital partnership with Sitecore and a shared vision of improving and elevating a full range of digital experiences. We welcome the advisory and deep product capabilities the Hedgehog acquisition will bring to EPAM, our customers, and the entire Sitecore community." Sitecore's acquisition of Hedgehog is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in June of 2019. Financial terms were not disclosed. Upon closing of the transaction, Hedgehog's more than 80 employees will become part of Sitecore, including the Hedgehog leadership team. CG Petsky Prunier, part of the Canaccord Genuity Group, served as the exclusive financial advisor to Hedgehog Development LLC. For more information, visit sitecore.com. About Sitecore Sitecore is the global leader in digital experience management software that combines content management, commerce, and customer insights. The Sitecore Experience Cloud empowers marketers to deliver personalized content in real time and at scale across every channelbefore, during, and after a sale. More than 5,200 brandsincluding American Express, Carnival Cruise Lines, Kimberly-Clark, and L'Orealhave trusted Sitecore to deliver the personalized interactions that delight audiences, build loyalty, and drive revenue. About Hedgehog Hedgehog is a full-service digital consultancy transforming the way brands interact with their customers by designing and engineering high performance, multi-channel digital marketing solutions positioning clients for growth and success. A multidisciplinary web solutions firm, Hedgehog offers strategy, design, consulting, technology, and managed services. Hedgehog is headquartered in Holbrook, NY with additional offices in Portland, OR, Charlotte, NC, Sofia, Bulgaria, and Amsterdam, Netherlands. The company is consistently recognized for being one of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. To learn more, visit http://www.hhog.com/ Contact Shannon Lyman Sr. Director, Communications at Sitecore [email protected] 2019 Sitecore Corporation A/S . Sitecore, Sitecore Experience Commerce, and Sitecore Content Hub are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Sitecore Corporation A/S in the USA and other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. SOURCE Sitecore Related Links http://www.sitecore.net DALLAS, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Spence Diamonds, a leader in the lab-grown diamond retail sector, has named entrepreneur Veeral Rathod its new CEO. Rathod will lead the company from its Dallas offices. Vancouver-based Spence was the first brick-and-mortar diamond retailer in North America to focus its business on its proprietary lab-grown Artisan Created Diamonds, which are physically, chemically and optically identical to mined diamonds, while also selling the earth-mined counterparts side by side. Rathod, who has been with the company since September 2018, was brought on to lead marketing and brand transformation as CMO and to learn the business while being groomed to take the reins of the company. "Elevating Veeral to CEO is the culmination of the plan we've had for him since day one," said Spence Executive Chairman Eric Lindberg. "He brings not only a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit to the company as we expand, but also a strong background in customization, salesforce management, brand building, innovation and customer experience." Prior to joining Spence, Rathod served as CEO at J. Hilburn, the world's first custom men's lifestyle brand, which he co-founded in 2007 and ran through April 2018. The company received coverage in national media, including The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, as a pioneer in omni-channel retail, connecting with clients through personal stylists, digital platforms and physical retail stores. "Just as we reimagined the luxury menswear space, my vision for Spence is to transform the diamond retail space through education about lab-grown diamonds, which are increasingly becoming the stone of choice for millennials who want value, sustainability and ethical production methods," said Rathod. "Through our in-store experience, 80% of our customers choose lab-grown over earth-mined diamonds once they understand the merits of both options. We truly believe that lab diamonds will transform this industry, and we want to stay at the forefront of this change as we expand our presence in the U.S. and Canada." In addition to his experience in consumer retail and luxury goods, Rathod also has extensive experience in finance, having served as vice president at Greenhill Cogent and as an M&A analyst at Credit Suisse First Boston, Technology Group. He is a St. Mark's School of Texas alum and holds a bachelor's degree in international relations and economics from the University of Pennsylvania. About Spence Diamonds Founded in Vancouver, British Columbia, Spence Diamonds has been in the diamond business for 40 years and is the only diamond retailer to showcase lab-grown Artisan Created Diamonds side by side with earth-mined diamonds. With stores featuring up to 2,500 engagement ring designs in open display cases for customers to easily try on, the Spence model is built on transparency, choice and customization. Spence's Gemological Institute of America (GIA)-trained diamond consultants offer an unbiased, immersive education about each diamond's origins as well as cut, color, clarity, size, setting and style. Each Spence ring is custom made and handcrafted. Spence has eight Canadian stores in addition to U.S. locations in Austin, Dallas and Plano, Texas; Scottsdale, Arizona; and San Jose, California. Media Contact: Curry Heard [email protected] 817-329-3257 SOURCE Spence Diamonds Related Links http://www.spencediamonds.com ANNVILLE, Pa., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Pennsylvanians who want to host a community function can consider one of 62 Pennsylvania National Guard armories, readiness centers throughout the state, or the Keystone Conference Center located in Annville. Maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), the armories/readiness centers serve as local training facilities for members of the Pennsylvania National Guard. When not being used for training, many are available to be rented by the public. "These facilities are spacious with plenty of parking and handicap accessibility, making them ideal for reunions, fundraisers, birthday parties, or any other community event," said Marc Ferraro, DMVA's deputy for Facilities and Engineering. "We welcome people to give us a call to discuss the possibility of renting an armory or readiness center in their town." To inquire about availability or to rent an armory/readiness center, please call the Office of Facilities and Engineering at 717-861-8581 or email: [email protected]. A complete list of armories/readiness centers available to rent can be found at directory of rentable facilities. Also available to rent is the Keystone Conference Center at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County. Located on a wooded site on the side of Blue Mountain, above Marquette Lake, the Keystone Conference Center is a 10,000-square-foot structure with plenty of meeting and entertaining space, along with 125 parking spaces. "The Keystone Conference Center is a popular destination for wedding receptions and business conferences," said Ferraro. "It is the ideal place for anyone looking to make nature and a stunning mountain view a part of their event experience." Check out Keystone Conference Center for more information, or call the Office of Facilities and Engineering at 717-861-8581 for questions or to reserve a date. You can also email questions to: [email protected]. MEDIA CONTACT: Joseph Butera, 717-861-2178 SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Related Links http://www.dmva.state.pa.us WASHINGTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Below is a statement by U.S. Conference of Mayors President, Columbia (SC) Mayor Steve Benjamin on yesterday's shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch: "Once again students have been attacked in their school. This time it occurred in Highlands Ranch, CO, just eight miles from Columbine High School. One student died after trying to stop the shooters, eight were wounded and all of the students and faculty at STEM School Highlands Ranch were threatened. "America's mayors condemn any act of violence in any school. We cannot expect our children to learn or teachers to teach if they do not feel safe in their schools. "We stand with the Highlands Ranch community and recognize the bravery of the Douglas County Sheriff's Deputies who quickly responded. We send our condolences to the family and friends of the student who was killed and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured in this terrible tragedy. "Since the 1999 shooting at Columbine High School there have been a number of school shootings, including Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook Elementary, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and more than 228,000 students have experienced gun violence at school, yet no real change has taken place. Once again, we must ask: What will it take to enact sensible gun safety legislation in this country?" About The United States Conference of Mayors -- The U.S. Conference of Mayors is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. There are nearly 1,400 such cities in the country today, and each city is represented in the Conference by its chief elected official, the mayor. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/usmayors, or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/usmayors. SOURCE U.S. Conference of Mayors Related Links www.usmayors.org ATLANTA, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- SunTrust Banks, Inc. (NYSE: STI) announced that it will make a $10 million equity investment in JBG SMITH's Washington Housing Initiative Impact Pool. The Initiative is a transformational market-driven approach to producing affordable housing in the Washington, D.C. region. SunTrust, through its subsidiary SunTrust Community Capital, has been actively involved in the development of affordable housing in the region having invested approximately $115 million in the past three years. This includes projects such as: Abrams Hall (80 units for seniors), City View (58 units for families), Brookland Place (80 units for families) and Westover Apartments (68 units for families). "Affordable housing is a critical component to a vibrant and diverse economy. SunTrust's efforts to build workforce housing will be further enhanced by this fantastic initiative, and we look forward to remaining a key partner for the Washington, D.C. community," said Dan O'Neill, president of the Mid-Atlantic Division of SunTrust. The Initiative was launched by JBG SMITH and the Federal City Council in June 2018 as a scalable market-driven model that uses private capital to help address the scarcity of housing for middle income families. The program expects to preserve or build between 2,000 and 3,000 units of affordable workforce housing in the region. "We recognize that the workforce housing shortage across the DC region creates unique challenges for many individuals and families. We are committed to proactively addressing this situation by taking meaningful, lasting action, but we know we cannot do it alone," said JBG SMITH executive vice president of Social Impact Investing, AJ Jackson. "We are very grateful to have the support of so many institutional investors helping to bring new private capital towards the effort of preserving and producing affordable workforce housing in our region. This will allow us to move forward with a scalable, replicable, market-based approach to preserving affordability, preventing displacement, and strengthening inclusive communities. We believe that the Impact Pool will be an important tool to improve housing affordability for working families." About SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust Banks, Inc. (NYSE: STI) is a purpose-driven company dedicated to Lighting the Way to Financial Well-Being for the people, businesses, and communities it serves. SunTrust leads onUp, a national movement inspiring Americans to build financial confidence. Headquartered in Atlanta, the Company has two business segments: Consumer and Wholesale. Its flagship subsidiary, SunTrust Bank, operates an extensive branch and ATM network throughout the high-growth Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states, along with 24-hour digital access. Certain business lines serve consumer, commercial, corporate, and institutional clients nationally. As of March 31, 2019, SunTrust had total assets of $220 billion and total deposits of $162 billion. The Company provides deposit, credit, trust, investment, mortgage, asset management, securities brokerage, and capital market services. Learn more at suntrust.com. About JBG SMITH JBG SMITH is an S&P 400 company that owns, operates, invests in and develops a dynamic portfolio of high-quality mixed-use properties in and around Washington, DC. Through an intense focus on placemaking, JBG SMITH cultivates vibrant, amenity-rich, walkable neighborhoods throughout the Capital region, including National Landing where it now serves as the exclusive developer for Amazon's new headquarters. JBG SMITH's operating portfolio currently comprises approximately 18 million square feet of high-quality office, multifamily and retail assets, 98% at our share of which are Metro-served. It also maintains a robust future pipeline encompassing approximately 18.7 million square feet of mixed-use development opportunities. For more information on JBG SMITH please visit www.jbgsmith.com. The Impact Pool is a separate legal entity from JBG SMITH. While the manager of the Impact Pool is controlled by JBG SMITH, an investment in the Impact Pool is not an investment in JBG SMITH. SOURCE SunTrust Banks, Inc. Related Links www.suntrust.com TORONTO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ - Superior Gold Inc. ("Superior Gold" or the "Company") (TSXV: SGI) is pleased to announce that Michael Mulroney has joined the Board of Directors of the Company effective immediately as the nominee of Northern Star Resources Ltd. ("Northern Star"). Michael is Northern Star's Chief Geological Officer and will be replacing Shaun Day who was previously the Chief Financial Officer of Northern Star and the previous nominee director of Northern Star. Michael is a geologist and resource industry professional with over 30 years of experience in the exploration, mining and finance sectors. His finance experience includes investment banking along with evaluation, acquisition and financing of natural resource projects around the world. Michael has held several executive and non-executive director positions in the areas of exploration, project feasibility and development in both gold and base metals sectors. Most recently, Michael was Managing Director of Australian listed companies Venturex Resources Limited and Non-Executive Director of Acacia Coal Limited. Chris Bradbrook, President and CEO of Superior Gold stated: "We are very pleased to welcome Michael to the Board. The addition of his skill set will be beneficial as we continue to focus on expanding reserves and resources at the Plutonic Gold Operations. We are very appreciative of the ongoing support of Northern Star. Finally, I would also like to acknowledge Shaun's contribution to the Company as the prior nominee director of Northern Star. We are very grateful for his expertise and assistance during his time with Superior Gold." Shaun is currently Chair of the Audit Committee and will leave the Company subsequent to the release of the first quarter 2019 financial results which will be announced on May 14, 2019. Rene Marion, an existing director, will subsequently be appointed as the Chair of the Audit Committee. About Superior Gold Superior Gold is a Canadian based gold producer that owns 100% of the Plutonic Gold operations located in Western Australia. The Plutonic Gold operations include the Plutonic Gold mine and central mill, the Hermes open pit gold project and an interest in the Bryah Basin joint venture. Superior Gold is focused on expanding production at the Plutonic Gold operations and building an intermediate gold producer with superior returns for shareholders. SOURCE Superior Gold OSLO, Norway, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Targovax ASA (OSE: TRVX), a clinical stage biotechnology company developing immune activators to target hard-to-treat solid tumors, today announces that it has completed patient enrollment in the phase Ib/II trial of ONCOS-102 in combination with chemotherapy in unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). The trial consists of a phase Ib safety lead-in part followed by a randomized, open label phase II part, assessing the combination of ONCOS-102 and standard of care (SoC) chemotherapy (pemetrexed and cisplatin) vs SoC chemotherapy alone in first or second/third line patients with unresectable MPM. In May 2018, Targovax reported no safety issues, strong innate and adaptive immune activation and 50% disease control rate (DCR) for the six patients in the phase Ib safety lead-in cohort - see link to press release here. The enrollment of 25 patients into the randomized phase II part of the trial has now been completed, with a total of 31 patients on the trial who will be evaluated for safety, immune response and efficacy. There are 20 patients in the experimental arm combining ONCOS-102 with chemotherapy and eleven patients in the chemotherapy only control group. The patients in the part I safety cohort form part of the experimental arm. The aim of the trial is to assess safety and tolerability, immunological activation and 6-month overall response rate (ORR) of the combination of ONCOS-102 and SoC chemotherapy compared to SoC chemotherapy alone. Data read out is expected around New Year. Magnus Jaderberg, CMO of Targovax, said: "We are very pleased to have completed enrollment of our mesothelioma trial. ONCOS-102 is currently the most clinically advanced oncolytic virus in this difficult to treat cancer, and therefore a high priority for us. The randomized ORR and immune data from this study will indicate whether the ONCOS-102 and chemotherapy combination gives patients a benefit over chemotherapy. The clinical and immune data will guide the further development of ONCOS-102 in mesothelioma." CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Renate Birkeli, Investor Relations Phone: +47 922 61 624 Email: [email protected] Media and IR enquires: Andreas Tinglum Corporate Communications (Norway) Phone: +47-9300-1773 Email: [email protected] This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/targovax/r/targovax-announces-completed-enrollment-of-oncos-102-trial-in-mesothelioma,c2806118 SOURCE Targovax MONTEREY, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Mark Limbaugh, President of The Ferguson Group and a nationally-recognized leader on water and natural resources federal policies and regulations, today said federally-backed financing for water infrastructure, such as the Environmental Protection Agency's Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program, provides significant benefits to water agencies and will likely be expanded in the upcoming congressional debate over the size and scope of a national infrastructure package. "Federally backed financing programs, like WIFIA, can generate annual debt service savings of 20 percent or more for most water agencies," said Limbaugh, who was tapped to serve on a panel exploring water infrastructure financing options at the Association of California Water Agency's (ACWA) spring conference in Monterey, California. "And Congress is likely to expand WIFIA and create a similar program in the Bureau of Reclamation in any infrastructure package." Limbaugh's presentation, which can be found here, focused in part on EPA's recently released solicitation for the WIFIA program's third round of funding for non-federal water supply, wastewater, and other water-related infrastructure projects. WIFIA provides long-term (35-year), low-cost (today, approximately 2.94 percent) financing. In the FY 2018 WIFIA program solicitation, 39 projects, including 12 in California, were selected in 16 states and the District of Columbia. Approximately $5 billion in financing was approved to help accelerate construction on over $10 billion in water infrastructure projects. Limbaugh also highlighted other funding options that Congress will likely consider in the 116th Congress, including H.R. 2473, recently introduced by Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA), and legislation expected to be introduced soon by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA). A TFG compiled guide to assist water infrastructure project sponsors in the first phase of the WIFIA application, submitting a Letter of Interest (LOI) can be downloaded here. LOI's are due by July 5, 2019. Prior to joining TFG in 2007, Limbaugh was appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the Department of the Interior. Mark also served more than three years as Deputy Commissioner for External and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Bureau of Reclamation. Contact: Kristi More The Ferguson Group 1901 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Suite 700 Washington, D.C. 20006 Phone: (202) 331-8500 [email protected] thefergusongroup.com SOURCE The Ferguson Group Related Links http://thefergusongroup.com NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The fractional flow reserve market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 16.0% during the forecast period. Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05774192/?utm_source=PRN The fractional flow reserve market is expected to reach 1,082 million by 2024 from an estimated 516 million in 2019, at a CAGR of 16.0% during the forecast period. Market growth is largely driven by the rising geriatric population and the subsequent growth in the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, cost benefits of FFR, and the presence of a favorable reimbursement scenario for FFR. However, the reluctance of interventional cardiologists to adopt FFR is a major factor expected to restrain the growth of this market during the forecast period. By technology, the non-invasive segment is expected to grow at the highest rate during the forecast period. On the basis of technology, the fractional flow reserve market is segmented into invasive and non-invasive monitoring technologies. The non-invasive monitoring segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to the lack of risk of procedural complications and the presence of clinical evidence supporting its efficacy. The single-vessel diseases segment is expected to dominate the market in 2018. On the basis of application, the fractional flow reserve market is segmented into single-vessel diseases and multi-vessel diseases.The single-vessel diseases segment is expected to dominate the market in 2018. This could be attributed to the high prevalence of single-vessel coronary artery disease. The Asia Pacific fractional flow reserve market is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The Asia Pacific, comprising China, India, Japan, and Rest of Asia Pacific countries, offers high-growth opportunities for players in the fractional flow reserve market. This segment is slated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period, due to the rapid growth in the geriatric population and the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Break of primary participants: By Company Type Tier 155%, Tier 225% and Tier 320% By Designation C-level43%, Director Level32%, Others25% By Region North America38%, Europe23%, Asia Pacific29%, RoW10% The key players in the near-infrared imaging market are Abbott (US), Boston Scientific (US), ACIST Medical Systems (US), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Opsens, Inc. (Canada), HeartFlow, Inc. (US), Siemens Healthineers (Germany), Pie Medical Imaging (Netherlands), CathWorks (Israel), and Medis Medical Imaging Systems BV (Netherlands). Research Coverage: The report analyzes the fractional flow reserve market and aims at estimating the market size and future growth potential of this market based on various segments such as technology, application, and region. The report also includes a competitive analysis of the key players in this market along with their company profiles, product offerings, recent developments, and key market strategies. Reasons to Buy the Report The report can help established firms as well as new entrants/smaller firms to gauge the pulse of the market, which, in turn, would help them garner a greater share. Firms purchasing the report could use one, or a combination of the below mentioned five strategies. This report provides insights into the following pointers: Market Penetration: Comprehensive information on the products offered by the top players in the fractional flow reserve market. The report analyzes the market based on technology, application, and region Product Development/Innovation: Detailed insights on new product launches in the fractional flow reserve market Market Development: Comprehensive information about lucrative emerging markets. The report analyzes the markets for various fractional flow reserve solutions across regions Market Diversification: Exhaustive information about products, untapped regions, recent developments, and investments in the fractional flow reserve market Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of market ranking, and strategies, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players in the market Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05774192/?utm_source=PRN 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 http://www.reportlinker.com ORANGE, Calif., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- To celebrate National Salsa Month this May, the makers of HERDEZ Salsa, the No. 1 selling salsa brand in Mexico and a staple in Mexican kitchens for over 100 years, are providing consumers with unexpected ways to incorporate salsa in every meal. Made from fresh, simple, quality ingredients, this convenient, nutritious condiment represents the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine and provides an easy way to add flavor and spice up any dishhowever much heat you can handle. "Salsa is packed with plant-powered ingredients such as tomatoes, onions and chili peppers," said Megan Roosevelt, RDN and founder of HealthGroceryGirl.com. "While some may see salsa as simply a dip for chips, what they may not recognize is that salsa is a plant-powered staple which can be used for flavoring meals without excess sugar or calories. Available in mild, medium or hot, HERDEZ Salsa Casera, for example, contains only 1 gram of sugar per serving and is suitable for any occasion." Roosevelt recommends these five innovative ways to enjoy more salsa: Use Salsa as a Ketchup Substitute Ketchup is traditionally loaded with sugar and contains a relatively small amount of tomatoes per serving. Salsa provides a similar tomato experience with more nutrients, more fiber and less sugar. Whether it's a burger, breakfast eggs, potatoes or more, swap ketchup for salsa. It's the ultimate healthy condiment! Ketchup is traditionally loaded with sugar and contains a relatively small amount of tomatoes per serving. Salsa provides a similar tomato experience with more nutrients, more fiber and less sugar. Whether it's a burger, breakfast eggs, potatoes or more, swap ketchup for salsa. It's the ultimate healthy condiment! Try Salsa in Place of Salad Dressing A generous pour of salsa is a great alternative to salad dressing. Some store-bought salad dressings can be high in sugar, sodium and calories, yet salsa is a fresh and fun way to flavor a salad! The HERDEZ brand offers a variety of salsa flavors to keep your salads interesting. A generous pour of salsa is a great alternative to salad dressing. Some store-bought salad dressings can be high in sugar, sodium and calories, yet salsa is a fresh and fun way to flavor a salad! The HERDEZ brand offers a variety of salsa flavors to keep your salads interesting. Salsa Salad Wraps Bulk up your salsa with beans, avocado and freshly chopped vegetables such as bell peppers for a hearty meal. Add this mixture to large lettuce leaves to make crunchy, plant-powered lettuce wraps. Bulk up your salsa with beans, avocado and freshly chopped vegetables such as bell peppers for a hearty meal. Add this mixture to large lettuce leaves to make crunchy, plant-powered lettuce wraps. Spice up Your Soup with Salsa Take a bowl of soup from tasty to terrific with a pour of salsa on top! This works great for any soup, from creamy soups to hearty soups like chili and you can make it as spicy as you'd like. Take a bowl of soup from tasty to terrific with a pour of salsa on top! This works great for any soup, from creamy soups to hearty soups like chili and you can make it as spicy as you'd like. Salsa-Avo-BowlSlice a ripe avocado in half and remove the pit, fill the hole with your favorite salsa and top with a sprinkle of sunflower seeds or hemp seeds and enjoy with a spoon. This snack takes less than a minute to make and is packed with fiber, flavor and nutrition. "The HERDEZ brand makes it easy for people to connect with the real flavors of Mexico and brings authentic flavors to everyday, modern dishes," said Diana DeLoza, senior brand manager of MegaMex Foods. "The HERDEZ brand's wide range of salsas and condiments, such as Guacamole Salsa, Salsa Verde, and Salsa Casera, won't make you feel guilty about eating throughout National Salsa Month and beyond." If you're looking for delicious and nutritious ways to indulge throughout National Salsa Month, the HERDEZ brand offers more than 20 additional products in its lineup to allow you to add as much flavor and spice as you'd like to any meal. For additional recipes for National Salsa Month, nutritional information and where to buy HERDEZ products, please visit www.herdeztraditions.com or follow the brand on social media on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. About HERDEZ The HERDEZ Brand is the No. 1 selling brand in Mexico and a growing staple in homes across the U.S. It is best known for its flagship product, HERDEZ Salsa Casera, as well as additional favorites including HERDEZ Salsa Verde and HERDEZ Guacamole Salsa. The HERDEZ brand is owned by MegaMex Foods, a joint venture company between two giants in the food industry, Hormel Foods (NYSE: HRL) and Herdez desl Fuerte, S.A. de CV. SOURCE HERDEZ Brand Related Links http://www.herdeztraditions.com OTTAWA, Ontario, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The Royal Canadian Mint is marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of the monarch who gave royal assent to the act that ushered in Canadian Confederation in 1867 and chose Ottawa as our nation's capital. The legacy of Her Majesty Queen Victoria continues to live on in numerous other cities where streets, schools and landmarks still bear her name. Just in time for the official holiday celebrating her birth, the Mint has crafted a 5 oz. fine silver coin featuring a full-colour reproduction of her 1838 state portrait; a rectangular, coloured fine silver coin replicating the design of the Canadian 50-cent stamp celebrating her Diamond Jubilee in 1897; and a pure gold coin dated 1819-2019, featuring an engraved cameo of the young queen. All of these coins are available now. Another historic theme appears on the 2019 $30 Fine Silver Coin 60 Years of Prominence: The St. Lawrence Seaway. Designed by artist Claire Watson, this 99.99% pure silver coin celebrates six decades of the US-Canada partnership that created and maintains this vital trade link. Symbolically, the outside edge of the coin evokes the links of an anchor chains, representing the strength of the trade relationship forged by the Seaway. A split maple leaf and star pattern adorning the bow of a cargo ship exiting a giant lock adds emphasizes the significance of this famed shipping lane to Canada and the United States. The Mint is also proud to launch a new innovation with the 2019 $20 Fine Silver Coin Sparkle of the Heart. Anna Bucciarelli's floral design is enhanced by the addition of a raised, delicately engraved structure which houses a genuine Fire and IceTM Canadian diamond. Thanks to a patented Dancing Diamond mechanism developed by Beverly Hills Jewellers Canada, the diamond continuously oscillates and twinkles. Other finely crafted keepsakes appearing this month include: The 2019 Fine Silver Coin Set The Canadian Maple Masters Collection, featuring Steve Hepburn designs on five 99.99% pure silver, ranging from one ounce to one kilogram; Collection, featuring designs on five 99.99% pure silver, ranging from one ounce to one kilogram; A 3 oz. fine silver and a 1 oz. pure gold coin, both featuring contrasting selective gold plating, marking the 40 th anniversary of the Gold Maple Leaf bullion coin; anniversary of the Gold Maple Leaf bullion coin; The 2019 5-Ounce Fine Silver Big Coin Series: 50-Cent Coin; Coin; The 2019 $20 Fine Silver Coin Canadian Fauna: The Sea Otter, featuring a colourful illustration by W. Allan Hancock ; Fine Silver Coin Canadian Fauna: The Sea Otter, featuring a colourful illustration by W. ; The 2019 $8 Fine Silver Coin Pandas: A Golden Gift of Friendship, a fully gold-plated silver coin designed by Simon Ng ; Fine Silver Coin Pandas: A Golden Gift of Friendship, a fully gold-plated silver coin designed by ; The 2019 $3 Fine Silver Coin Celebrating Canadian Fun and Festivities Tulips, designed by Steve Hepburn ; and Fine Silver Coin Celebrating Canadian Fun and Festivities Tulips, designed by ; and The 2019 $5 Fine Silver Coin Zodiac Series: Gemini, designed by Jori Van Der Linde . Mintages, pricing and full background information on each product can be found on the "Shop" tab of www.mint.ca . Coin images are available 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 on the Mint's web site. The coins are also available at Royal Canadian Mint' 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. 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 www.mint.ca. Alex Reeves, Senior Manager, Public Affairs, Tel: +1 (613) 949-5777, [email protected] SOURCE Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) Related Links http://www.mint.ca SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- Puerto Rico, one of the Caribbean's most beautiful islands, will play host to the 5th Edition of the World Municipalities Summit 2019 this Friday, May 10, through Sunday, May 12. The two-day international conference is organized by the U.S. Minority Chamber of Commerce, and will be held at the exclusive world class venue, Hotel Marriott Condado & Stellaris Casino. The high-level municipality forum focuses on issues related to sustainable development but also covers other issues including international cooperation, energy, modern development practices and other topics in the fields of public-private partnership, economics and international relations. USMCC said in a statement that "everything is ready for the summit to promote new twinning relationships and the purchase of food products in Central America." Keynote Speakers highlights the Mayor of Puerto Cortes, Honduras, Mr. Allan David Ramos, the newly elected Mayor from San Salvador, Ernesto Muyshondt, as well as the irreversibly winning mayoral candidate of Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, Architect Emos Davis, who will present the challenges and opportunities offered by his community within the "labyrinth of instability" in the region. As a Guest Speaker who will also participate is the President of the Legislative Committee of the House of Representatives of Puerto Rico (Congress), which runs 78 municipalities, Ms. Maria Milagros Charbonier. As a panelist from the Government of Puerto Rico, Mr. Omar Marrero is the true architect of the reconstruction for a new Puerto Rico, according to a survey of USMCC on "who is who on the island." The host is the Honorable Mayor of City of Villalba, Mr. Luis Javier Hernandez, who has also confirmed his participation. He has managed to promote a historic energy initiative that will power 6 municipalities. Also, the President of the Association of Mayors, Honorable Jose Roman Abreu, from the municipality of San Lorenzo will be a guest speaker. The event has no cost for the mayors of Puerto Rico. Participating as speakers also in the economic development of the island, the President of the Manufacturing Association of Puerto Rico, Mr. Rodrigo Masses, and Mr. Antonio "Tito" Colorado," who was Secretary of State in Puerto Rico in the '80s. About the U.S Minority Chamber of Commerce: Founded in the year 2000, we provide a platform focusing on economic development, investment through public-private partnerships and international cooperation with a purpose to increase the role and influence of local governments and its representative organizations in global relations and become the main source of partners, investors and donors for an effective, innovative local government close to the citizen, businesses and ensuring poverty reduction. For more information: www.minoritychamber.net Maria Loaisiga Event Senior Director (786)406-2190 [email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/722000/1_LOGO_CHAMBER_Logo.jpg SOURCE Minority Chamber of Commerce Related Links http://www.minoritychamber.net TOKYO, May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Tier IV is honored to announce its participation in the ROS 2 Technical Steering Committee (TSC). The ROS 2 TSC is made up of organizations representing all aspects of robotics, from traditional industrial robotics to the forefront of robotics innovation in new markets. By joining the ROS 2 TSC, Tier IV gains the ability to contribute to the management and stewardship of the development of ROS 2. Tier IV can contribute to determining the roadmap for ROS 2 features, and embrace ROS 2 as the underlying framework for Autoware, a well-known ROS-based open-source software project for autonomous vehicles co-founded by Tier IV. As a member of the TSC, Tier IV commits engineering resources to the development of ROS 2 features. Examples of Tier IV's planned contributions include ROS applications in safety-critical embedded systems, deterministic robot software, and hardware-accelerated high-performance computing. These new features will also be beneficial for the next generation of Autoware, called Autoware.Auto, which has a focus on being a secure, robust and safe foundation for autonomous vehicles. "Tier IV is proud to be part of the ROS 2 TSC. We believe that ROS 2 will be a de facto base for open-source software for autonomous vehicles and many other functional-safety domains. This is a great opportunity for Tier IV and Autoware to step up to the challenges of production-quality autonomous vehicles," says Shinpei Kato, Founder of Tier IV, Inc. and a member of the Board of Directors of The Autoware Foundation. "We're excited to welcome Tier IV to the ROS 2 TSC. We share a common vision of building new industries on open platforms. It's exciting to see Tier IV and Autoware committing to using and contributing to ROS 2, and we look forward to further collaboration between our communities," says Brian Gerkey, CEO, Open Robotics. The current ROS 2 TSC members (excluding Tier IV) are: Acutronic Robotics Amazon Apex.AI Arm Bosch eProsima Intel LG Electronics Microsoft Open Robotics ROBOTIS TARDEC Toyota Research Institute https://discourse.ros.org/t/introducing-the-ros-2-technical-steering-committee/6132 https://github.com/ros2 http://www.ros.org/ "Autoware" is a trademark of The Autoware Foundation. About Tier IV, Inc Representative Director: Kazuya TAKEDA Establishment: December 2015 Main business activities: - Autoware platform development - Autoware web services development - Sales of Autoware development kits - Autoware academy/training programs Contact: https://tier4.jp SOURCE Tier IV, Inc. Related Links https://tier4.jp NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., May 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Uniregistry Inc., a global leader in Registry services, in partnership with Intercap Registry Inc., celebrated today the General Availability of the new .inc Top Level Domain (TLD) after a successful Sunrise and EAP. The .inc domain is being adopted by companies across multiple industries for corporate sites, newsrooms, investor relations pages, employee portals and more. Intercap Registry's decision to partner with Uniregistry as its Registry Backend Services Provider followed a competitive procurement process through which Intercap Registry evaluated several leading providers in the field. "Our procurement process focused on selecting a provider with robust technical capabilities while holding itself to the highest operational standards, combined with outstanding personnel and the ability to deliver on strategic and innovative goals. Compared to established players, Uniregistry provided the best value based on our objective criteria and requirements. Their ability to take care of all aspects of running the extension, from the Registry platform to an integrated Registrar allowing direct sales, was exactly what we needed to focus on the core of our project. Choosing Uniregistry was an easy decision," explains David Cochran, managing director at Intercap Registry. Uniregistry has emerged as a leader in the Backend Services Industry due to its innovative and comprehensive TLD Operator solution, backed by capabilities to take care of all aspects of domain name use, development and management under one roof. Enjoying a 100 percent up-time across its TLDs, Uniregistry operates an accredited Registrar alongside a state-of-the-art Registry platform that supports value-added products based on patent-pending technologies. An agile and experienced team, with years of experience marketing TLDs allows Uniregistry to facilitate a direct connection to every major registrar in the world, ranging from the corporate domain providers to the largest retail providers, as was demonstrated during the successful launch of .inc. Additionally, any .inc domain registered could also benefit from Uniregistry's secondary market team of experienced brokers and be listed on its domain name marketplace that has sold over $250 million in domains. This unparalleled mix of expertise and hands-on experience from industry veterans puts Uniregistry in a unique position to support TLD owners from the initial concept all the way to the actual operation, including mobilizing its dedicated staff to help partners set-up and staff their Registry. "We are pleased to work in partnership with Intercap Registry to help facilitate the development and adoption of .inc around the globe and look forward to supporting additional TLDs who stand to benefit tremendously through the utilization of our Backend Services and the innovative tools created in-house by our multi-faceted team," explains Kanchan Mhatre, COO of Uniregistry. With General Availability starting today, Uniregistry looks forward to an additional surge of interest from its Registrar partners and their business clients. About Uniregistry Corp. Since its inception in 2012, Uniregistry, an operator of 26 TLDs, has also gained a reputation as an exemplary Backend Provider focused on enabling TLDs around the globe to increase the value of their extensions. Whether working for the Registry, the Back End, the Registrar or the Marketplace, a dedicated team of 125+ industry experts collaborate daily to fulfill Frank Schilling's vision of providing customers the necessary tools of the domain trade under one roof. Visit www.uniregistry.com for more details. About .inc Launched on March 27, 2019, .inc is the domain ending that means business. With member benefits from industry-leading brands like LegalZoom, WeWork, Square, Google Ads and Delta Air Lines included, .inc is a comprehensive solution for businesses of all sizes. Visit www.get.inc for more details. About Intercap Registry Inc. Intercap Registry Inc. owns and operates leading internet media businesses with a vision of building long term value, trust, and credibility. Intercap Registry Inc. is launching .inc as the domain ending that means business. SOURCE Uniregistry Related Links http://www.uniregistry.link DUBLIN, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The "United States Gift Cards and Incentive Cards Market Intelligence and Future Growth Dynamics - Market Size and Forecast (2014-2023), Analysis of Business and Retail Consumer Spending Pattern, Attitude & Behaviour" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. This report provides a detailed data centric analysis of gift cards and corporate incentive cards market along with consumer behaviour and retail spend dynamics in United States. With over 150 KPIs at country level, this report provides comprehensive understanding of gift and incentive card market dynamics. Gift cards: Drawing from proprietary survey results, this report provides in-depth analysis of opportunities in both open loop and closed loop prepaid gift card categories. Assesses consumer behaviour by type of consumer (retail and corporate - SMB, Mid-Tier, Large Enterprise), gifting occasion, digital gift card type, and market share by retail categories. Details six essential KPIs: number of cards in circulation, load value, unused value, average purchase value, average value per transaction, and value of transactions. Corporate incentive & loyalty cards: This report provides detailed market dynamics of corporate incentive cards, broadly segmented in four categories - consumer incentive card, employee incentive card, sales incentive card, and festival & other. It details market size and forecast at category level, by functional attribute (open loop and closed loop), and by corporate consumer segments (small scale business, mid-size business, and enterprise business). Digital gift card analysis: Provides market size and forecast for digital gift cards, broken down by retail and corporate buyers and by occasion. Open loop and closed loop: Provides market estimates and forecasts to assess opportunities in open loop and closed loop gift and incentive card segments across consumer segments. Consumer attitude and behaviour: Drawing from proprietary survey results, this report identifies and interprets key prepaid KPIs, including spend by age, gender, and income level. In addition, it provides an overview of how consumers are currently using gift cards across key retail sectors. Retail spend: Breaks down retail spend across 12 categories / sectors to provide detailed insights on consumer behaviour and changing dynamics of gift card spend. Market share by retailer: Provides market share of closed loop gift cards by key retailers in United States . Key report benefits: In-depth understanding of gift card and incentive card market dynamics: Understand market opportunity, key trends and drivers along with five-year forecast (2014-2023) for gift cards and incentive cards in United States . . Develop market specific strategies: Identify growth segments and target specific opportunities across consumer segments and occasions to formulate your gift cards strategy; assess market specific key trends and risks. Get insights into consumer attitude and behaviour in United States : Understand changing consumer attitude and behaviour and boost ROI. Get detailed insights into retail spend through gift cards for both retail and corporate consumers. : Understand changing consumer attitude and behaviour and boost ROI. Get detailed insights into retail spend through gift cards for both retail and corporate consumers. Get complete perspective through six essential KPIs: number of cards in circulation, load value, unused value, average purchase value, average value per transaction, and value of transactions. Key Topics Covered: About this Report United States Gift Card Market Size and Forecast United States Open Loop Gift Card Market Size and Forecast United States Closed Loop Gift Card Market Size and Forecast Digital Gift Card Market Size Trend Analysis and Future Growth Dynamics United States Gift Card Analysis by Retail Consumer Segment United States Gift Card Consumer Insights and Purchase Behaviour by Retail Sector United States Gift Card Analysis by Corporate Consumer Segment United States Consumer Incentive and Loyalty Prepaid Card Market Size and Forecast United States Employee Incentive Prepaid Card Market Size and Forecast United States Sales/Partner Incentive Prepaid Card Market Size and Forecast United States Corporate Spend on Gift Cards - Festival & Other Segment Market Size and Forecast Companies Mentioned Wal-Mart Stores Inc CVS Health Corp Kroger Co Amazon.com Inc Walgreens Boots Alliance Inc Target Corp Costco Wholesale Corp Albertson's Inc Home Depot Inc Best Buy Co Inc Publix Super Markets Inc Sears Holdings Corp Rite Aid Crop eBay Inc Apple Inc Macys Inc Lowe's Cos Inc HE Butt Grocery Co TJX Cos Inc Dollar General Corp Kohl's Corp Dollar Tree Inc Royal Ahold NV Meijer Inc Delhaize Group Sa For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/21ekce About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. 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 AUSTIN, Texas, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Kurt Senske announced that he will step down as chief executive officer of Upbring, effective December 31, 2019. Senske has served the organization for almost 25 years, 22 of those as chief executive officer. Michael Loo, currently the agency's president and chief operating officer will succeed Senske and hold the title of president and CEO. "On behalf of the Upbring Board of Directors, I want to thank Kurt for his remarkable leadership as CEO," said Upbring Chairman of the Board Sig Cornelius. "Kurt oversaw the evolution of the organization's rebranding from Lutheran Social Services of the South, refocusing on its origins in child welfare. Kurt's passion for Upbring's mission to break the cycle of child abuse by empowering children, families and communities is evident to all who know him, and he has served the organization exceptionally well." During Senske's two-plus decades of service, he helmed the organization while it more than tripled in size. Upbring's significant growth has made a difference in the lives of tens of thousands of children and families each year throughout the state of Texas as well as in parts of Louisiana. An innovative trailblazer inside the child welfare and education arenas, Loo joined Upbring in 2013 as chief financial officer before his promotion to the role of president and COO in 2015. Loo has broad experience in areas ranging from strategic planning and operations to technology and finance. Under his operational direction, Upbring programs have experienced exponential growth with the current trajectory showing great promise to lead to systemic change in child welfare and social services. "While Michael's professional skills and talents led him into the business and industry sector, his passion for helping families, inspired by his love and dedication for his wife and three children, called him to his current role in the nonprofit sector," Cornelius said. "We are profoundly grateful for the leadership Michael has already brought to the organization through his innovative strategies and growth of operations. We are fortunate to have an exceptional visionary in Michael to take the organization into the next decade and beyond." Prior to joining Upbring, Loo spent more than 25 years in business operations roles, 20 years of which were in higher executive management positions such as executive vice president and chief financial officer. He has held these positions in complex organizations that range from start-ups to large corporations. He formerly served as vice president of finance and administration of Kamehameha Schools, a private, multibillion-dollar endowed trust that was the largest private commercial, residential and agricultural real estate landholder and private school system in the State of Hawaii. He also spearheaded the initial public offering efforts of Sopogy, Inc., a technology provider in the micro concentrated solar power sector and was vice president controller and treasurer in the restructuring of Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. Senske and Loo will continue to work closely together and with Upbring's senior leadership team to provide for a seamless transition and ensure the organization's strong momentum continues. About Upbring Upbring is a leading Texas-based, faith-inspired nonprofit organization working to break the cycle of child abuse by empowering children, families and communities. Upbring partners with federal, state and local government agencies, community groups, small businesses, large corporations and dedicated individuals to deliver services that produce measurable progress toward five key markers of every child's wellbeing: safety, life skills, education, health and vocation. Upbring benefits nearly 30,000 families each year with its life-changing programsincluding foster care, adoption, education, children's centers and community services. While Upbring has evolved over more than 136 years of service, our organization remains firmly focused on delivering innovative programs and services that address the root causes of child abuse and neglect. For more information, please visit upbring.org. SOURCE Upbring Related Links https://www.upbring.org WASHINGTON, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The United Steelworkers (USW) union is urging members of the U.S. House of Representatives to pass H.R. 2474, the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, as a means of empowering workers, reducing poverty and boosting the U.S. economy. "The ability to form a union is one of the surest ways to improving economic outcomes," USW International President Leo W. Gerard wrote in the letter sent to members of Congress this week. "In order to unlock the potential benefits of unionization, workers need Congress to address the ability of employers to flaunt current labor laws." The bill would increase protections for workers who engage in union organizing and other collective action in their workplaces, and also would increase penalties on employers who violate workers' rights. The PRO Act would "empower future generations of workers to act collectively," Gerard wrote. The House Subcommittee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions will hold a hearing on the proposed legislation on Wednesday, May 8. Testifying before the committee will be AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, among other labor law experts. The USW has been working with the AFL-CIO and other unions to build support for labor law reform, participating in briefings and meetings across Capitol Hill. Last week, USW Organizing Director Maria Somma met with members of the Blue Collar Caucus to highlight the illegal tactics employers use and how the lack of penalties creates a culture of fear in many workplaces. Protecting workers' rights allows them to reach their full economic potential, which will benefit all Americans, Gerard wrote. "Workers are routinely threatened with plant closure, job displacement, or economic harm," he said. "Now is the time for Congress to act and provide millions of America's workers with the tools they need to secure a better future for themselves and their families." A copy of Gerard's letter to Congress can be found on the USW website: www.usw.org/news/media-center/articles/2019/may/19-05-06-LWG-Ltr-Supporting-PRO-Act.pdf The USW represents 850,000 workers in North America employed in many industries that include metals, rubber, chemicals, paper, oil refining and the service and public sectors. For more information: www.usw.org. SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW) Related Links http://www.usw.org THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Digi-Key Electronics, a global electronic components distributor, was honored with VCC's (Visual Communications Company, LLC) 2018 Global Distributor of the Year award at the 2019 EDS Banquet in Las Vegas, NV. VCC Presents Digi-Key with 2018 Global Distributor of the Year Award The award was presented by Andrew Zanelli, President/CEO; Deb Gray, Global Director of Sales; and Sannah Vinding, Executive Director, Product Development & Marketing at VCC and given to David Stein, VP Global Supplier Management; Levy Olson, Sr. Manager, Product Management; Nick Olson, Manager, Product Management; Sean Sorteberg, Manager, Technology Business; Ashley Dahle, Supervisor, Asset Management; and Tammy Swick, Partnership Marketing Manager at Digi-Key. VCC is the recognized leader in the development and manufacturing of innovative LED, incandescent, neon and specialty indicator light solutions for global markets including aerospace, medical, automotive, transportation, safety and industrial. VCC's broad product portfolio, including the CML, Leecraft and Littelites indicator product lines, is available for immediate shipment globally from Digi-Key. For more information, or to order from Digi-Key's full line of VCC products, please visit any of Digi-Key's global websites. About Digi-Key Electronics Digi-Key Electronics, headquartered in Thief River Falls, Minn., USA, is an authorized global, full-service distributor of electronic components, offering more than 8.7 million products, with over 1.7 million in stock and available for immediate shipment, from over 800 quality name-brand manufacturers. Digi-Key also offers a wide variety of online resources such as EDA and design tools, datasheets, reference designs, instructional articles and videos, multimedia libraries, and much more. Technical support is available 24/7 via email, phone and webchat. Additional information and access to Digi-Key's broad product offering can be found by visiting www.digikey.com. Editorial Contact for Digi-Key Electronics Kayla Krosschell PR & Marketing Communications Specialist 1.800.338.4105 x11098 [email protected] [email protected] SOURCE Digi-Key Electronics Related Links http://www.digikey.com AUSTIN, Texas, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- VolitionRx Limited (NYSE AMERICAN: VNRX) ("Volition") today announced financial results and a business update for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019. Volition management will host a conference call tomorrow, May 9, at 8:30 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time to discuss these results. Conference call details may be found below. Cameron Reynolds, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volition, upon releasing these results, commented, "I could not be more proud of our dedicated team at Volition, and the ground-breaking work they are doing. During the first quarter, we, together with our collaborators, have made significant progress, particularly with the work on the basics of our Nu.QTM platform and its expansion into exciting new areas." Mr. Reynolds further commented "We were very happy to report the initial data from the first of our product grade assays during this first quarter. We aim to strengthen our product pipeline beyond colorectal cancer to cover several cancers, most notably in lung cancer, and so are especially delighted to have executed an agreement with the National Taiwan University to conduct our first large-scale study in lung cancer. I am also delighted to announce that we are in the process of forming a Texas-based subsidiary to focus on the development and commercialization of our Nu.Q Vet products and help drive early revenue." Additionally, Mr. Reynolds added "During the first quarter 2019, we further strengthened our balance sheet with existing investors exercising $6.7 million in aggregate amount of outstanding warrants to purchase shares of our common stock and end the quarter with cash and cash equivalents of $16.2 million. Subsequent to the ending of the quarter, a further $5 million in warrants were exercised for cash, making a total of $11.7 million in warrants exercised this year." Company Highlights Financial Cash and cash equivalents as of March 31, 2019 totaled $16.2 million compared to $13.4 million as of the end of 2018. totaled compared to as of the end of 2018. An additional $5 million in aggregate exercise price of warrants (at $3 per share of common stock) were exercised subsequent to the quarter-end, leaving approximately $4.9 million in aggregate exercise price of warrants (at $3 per share of common stock) outstanding with an expiration date of August 10, 2019 . in aggregate exercise price of warrants (at per share of common stock) were exercised subsequent to the quarter-end, leaving approximately in aggregate exercise price of warrants (at per share of common stock) outstanding with an expiration date of . Continue to manage cash carefully with a cash burn of $3.9 million in the first quarter of 2019. Intellectual Property Achieved steady growth in worldwide patent portfolio. This is a key differentiator versus many other technologies either under development or available on the market, where the patent position maybe poor and/or narrow. - 20 patent families related to our diagnostic tests (including both human and veterinary medicine applications). - 7 patents granted in the United States . - 7 patents granted in the European Union. - 25 further patents granted worldwide. - 106 patents pending worldwide. Proof of Concept Data Tested our optimized product grade assays in three separate small-scale proof of concept cohorts and plan to move onto the larger clinical trial cohorts that are either in our freezer or the collection of which is underway. The preliminary results from our initial optimized product grade assays are as follows: - In a colorectal cancer cohort (123 subjects), a single Nu.Q assay detected colorectal cancer with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 72% while a two-assay panel had an AUC of 84%, cancer versus healthy. - In a lung cancer cohort (76 subjects), a single Nu.Q assay detected lung cancer, including stage I lung cancer. The AUC for this single assay was 85%, cancer versus healthy. - In a second confirmatory lung cancer cohort (152 subjects), the same single Nu.Q assay also detected lung cancer with an AUC of 79%, cancer versus healthy. The above proof of concept results give us confidence to move onto potentially dozens of other assays that we have under development and the large range of cohorts and trials we have collected and planned. Presented encouraging preliminary results using our Nu.Q platform in veterinary medicine. Executed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Texas A&M University's College of Veterinary Medicine to conduct a study of Nu.Q Vet. Volition is in the process of establishing a Texas -based subsidiary to drive the development and commercialization of Nu.Q Vet products and help generate early revenue. College of Veterinary Medicine to conduct a study of Nu.Q Vet. Volition is in the process of establishing a -based subsidiary to drive the development and commercialization of Nu.Q Vet products and help generate early revenue. Developed Nu.Q Capture, which investigates the use of NucleosomicsTM to purify or enrich tumor associated nucleosomes. Initial studies have demonstrated that Nu.Q Capture has been able to deplete/enrich nucleosomes by 70-90% using magnetic beads in serum and plasma. This is a still a work in progress, but it is a great first step and one that excites our scientific team. Clinical Trials Added to our extensive clinical trial program with the execution of a contract to conduct our first large-scale lung cancer study in conjunction with the prestigious National Taiwan University ("NTU"). The study will be conducted under the supervision of Professor Chen Jin-Shing in the Department of Surgery of NTU and will include 1,200 subjects receiving Low-Dose Computed Tomography scans, including 1,000 with lung cancer. in the Department of Surgery of NTU and will include 1,200 subjects receiving Low-Dose Computed Tomography scans, including 1,000 with lung cancer. Executed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Shanghai Fosun Long March Medical Science Co., Ltd. with the shared intention to enter into a binding agreement and to conduct three small-scale clinical trials in China . One of the trials is in lung cancer, and the others are in colorectal cancer and ovarian cancer, with preliminary data expected in 2019. Upcoming Milestones We expect to achieve the following milestones during 2019 and beyond: Advance our previously announced large-scale colorectal cancer trials in Europe , the U.S. and Asia . , the U.S. and . Advance the clinical trial program for Lung Cancer, focusing initially on the significant need in Asia , most notably in China . , most notably in . Through our to be formed Texas -based subsidiary, determine and announce the route to revenue for Nu.Q Vet with the aim of having a USDA-approved product in 2020. -based subsidiary, determine and announce the route to revenue for Nu.Q Vet with the aim of having a USDA-approved product in 2020. Announce the results of multiple proof of concept cancer studies to include prostate, pancreatic and ovarian, in addition to our 27-cancer study, and to initiate larger studies. Announce preliminary results of Nu.Q's performance in other disease conditions, including endometriosis. Advance the development of Nu.Q Capture by determining the level of discrimination of tumor associated nucleosomes using mass spectrometry and sequencing. Mr. Reynolds concluded, "We are extremely proud of the accomplishments we have achieved thus far. I thank the dedicated Volition team for their tireless efforts. I, along with the rest of the Board and indeed the whole company, look forward to sharing the results of key studies over the coming year." For further details please contact [email protected]. VolitionRx Limited First Quarter 2019 Earnings and Business Update Conference Call Date: Thursday, May 9, 2019 Time: 8:30 a.m. U.S. Eastern time U.S. Eastern time U.S. & Canada Dial-in: 1-855-327-6837 (toll free) 1-855-327-6837 (toll free) U.K. Dial-in: 0 808-101-2791 (toll free) 0 808-101-2791 (toll free) Toll/International: 1-631-891-4304 1-631-891-4304 Conference ID: 10006803 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, Investor Relations. The call will provide an update on recent developments and Volition's activities, including details of new and ongoing clinical trials, important events which have taken place in the first quarter of 2019, and milestones for 2019 and beyond. About Volition Volition is a multi-national life sciences company developing simple, easy to use, cost effective blood tests to help diagnose a range of cancers and other diseases. Early diagnosis has the potential to not only prolong the life of patients, but also to improve their quality of life. The tests are based on the science of NucleosomicsTM, which is the practice of identifying and measuring nucleosomes in the bloodstream or other bodily fluid - an indication that disease is present. Volition's research and development activities are currently centered in Belgium, with additional offices in Texas, London and Singapore, as the company focuses on bringing its diagnostic products to market. For more information about Volition, visit Volition's website (http://www.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. Media / Investor Contacts Safe Harbor Statement Statements in this press release may be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that concern matters that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or projected in the forward-looking statements. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "aims," "targets," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "optimizing," "potential," "goal," "suggests," "could," "would," "should," "may," "will" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements relate to the negotiation and execution of a binding agreement with Fosun Long March Medical Science Co., Ltd. and the timing of availability of preliminary data under such agreement, the effectiveness of Volition's blood-based diagnostic tests as well as Volition's ability to develop and successfully commercialize such test platforms for early detection of cancer and other diseases. Volition's actual results may differ materially from those indicated in these forward-looking statements due to numerous risks and uncertainties. For instance, if Volition fails to develop and commercialize diagnostic products, it may be unable to execute its plan of operations. Other risks and uncertainties include Volition's failure to obtain necessary regulatory clearances or approvals to distribute and market future products in the clinical IVD market; a failure by the marketplace to accept the products in Volition's development pipeline or any other diagnostic products Volition might develop; Volition will face fierce competition and Volition's intended products may become obsolete due to the highly competitive nature of the diagnostics market and its rapid technological change; and other risks identified in Volition's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other documents that Volition files with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about Volition's business based, in part, on assumptions made by management. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release, and, except as required by law, Volition does not undertake an obligation to update its forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances. NucleosomicsTM and Nu.QTM and their respective logos are trademarks and/or service marks of VolitionRx Limited and its subsidiaries. All other trademarks, service marks and trade names referred to in this press release are the property of their respective owners. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, all references to "$" refer to the legal currency of the United States of America. SOURCE VolitionRx Ltd HOLMDEL, N.J., May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Vonage Holdings Corp. (NYSE: VG), a global business cloud communications leader, today announced results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. "The first quarter reflects a solid start to the year, and I am proud of our team's performance across several major initiatives. The execution of our strategy continues to improve, and Vonage is well positioned to deliver on our growth objectives for 2019 and beyond," said Alan Masarek, Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Masarek continued, "Our OneVonage programmable platform is resonating well with customers, and it enables us to serve the total addressable market across unified communications, contact center, and programmable APIs. By delivering these products with our own technology through an integrated platform, Vonage is capitalizing on the global demand trends for cloud communications, which we believe will drive attractive growth for years to come." First Quarter Business Segment Results Vonage Business Revenues were $180 million , representing 64% of consolidated revenues and 31% GAAP growth. , representing 64% of consolidated revenues and 31% GAAP growth. Business Service Revenues were $159 million , for 37% GAAP growth. , for 37% GAAP growth. Adjusted to include acquisitions for all periods and other one-time items, Vonage Business Service Revenues increased 20% year-over-year (1) or 23% in constant currency. or 23% in constant currency. Applications Service Revenues grew 34% as reported and 13% adjusted or 13% adjusted, constant currency. API Platform Revenues (which are all service revenues) grew 43% as reported and 34% adjusted or 42% adjusted, constant currency. Business Service Revenue Per Customer was $408 , up 24% from the year-ago quarter. , up 24% from the year-ago quarter. Business Service Revenue Churn was 1.2%, stable compared to the year-ago quarter. First Quarter Consumer Segment Results Consumer Revenues were $100 million , down 15% year-over-year, as planned. , down 15% year-over-year, as planned. Customer churn was 1.9%, flat compared to the year-ago quarter. Average revenue per line ("ARPU") was $ 26.43 , an increase of $ 0.15 compared to the year-ago quarter. , an increase of $ compared to the year-ago quarter. Ended the first quarter of 2019 with approximately 1.2 million Consumer subscriber lines. Consolidated Income and Balance Sheet For the first quarter of 2019, Vonage reported consolidated revenues of $280 million, up from $254 million in the year-ago quarter. Loss from operations was $3 million, versus income from operations of $18 million in the year-ago quarter. Operating Income was primarily impacted by the acquisitions of TokBox and NewVoiceMedia, which drove higher operating expense, depreciation and amortization and interest expense. GAAP net loss was $1 million, or $0.00 per share, down from net income of $25 million in the year-ago period, or $0.11 per share. First quarter adjusted net income(2) was $15 million or $0.06 per share, down from $31 million or $0.13 per share in the year-ago period. For the first quarter, the Company generated Adjusted Operating Income Before Depreciation and Amortization ("Adjusted OIBDA")(3) of $32 million, and Adjusted OIBDA minus Capex(3) of $21 million. Net Cash from Operations was $3 million and Free Cash Flow(4) was $(8 million) for the quarter. This resulted in a net debt to Last Twelve Months Adjusted OIBDA ratio of 3.2 times, as of March 31, 2019. Guidance For the second quarter of 2019, Vonage expects the following: Vonage Business Revenues in the range of $194 million to $196 million . to . Consumer Revenues in the range of $96 million to $97 million . to . Consolidated Adjusted OIBDA in the range of $35 million to $37 million , including approximately $2 million of deferred revenue write-down from the acquisition of NewVoiceMedia. There is no change to the Company's full-year 2019 guidance. Conference Call and Webcast The company will host a conference call to discuss its financial results for the first quarter of 2019 and other matters at 8:30 AM Eastern Time. To participate, please dial (866) 891-8177. International callers should dial (412) 902-6756. A live webcast of the conference call will be available on the Vonage Investor Relations website. A replay of the webcast will also be available shortly after the conclusion of the call and may be accessed through Vonage's Investor Relations website or by dialing (877) 344-7529 or (412) 317-0088 for international callers and entering the passcode 10130875. (1) This is a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer below to Table 5 for a reconciliation to GAAP total business revenues and business service revenues. (2) This is a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer below to Table 4 for a reconciliation to GAAP net income. (3) This is a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer below to Table 3 for a reconciliation to GAAP income from operations. (4) This is a non-GAAP financial measure. Refer below to Table 6 for a reconciliation to GAAP cash from operations. VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Statement of Operations Data: Revenues $ 279,541 $ 273,803 $ 253,573 Operating Expenses: Cost of revenues (excluding depreciation and amortization of $9,418, $8,708, and $6,434, respectively) 113,411 111,873 103,567 Sales and marketing 95,523 82,232 77,136 Engineering and development 16,526 16,635 10,820 General and administrative 35,459 37,948 27,582 Depreciation and amortization 21,214 19,094 16,800 282,133 267,782 235,905 (Loss)/Income from operations (2,592) 6,021 17,668 Other Income (Expense): Interest expense (7,576) (5,774) (3,161) Other income (expense), net (416) (749) (253) (7,992) (6,523) (3,414) (Loss)/Income before income tax benefit/(expense) (10,584) (502) 14,254 Income tax benefit/(expense) 10,050 (6,441) 10,270 Net (loss)/income $ (534) $ (6,943) $ 24,524 (Loss)/Earning per common share: Basic $ $ (0.03) $ 0.11 Diluted $ $ (0.03) $ 0.10 Weighted-average common shares outstanding: Basic 240,527 239,649 233,034 Diluted 240,527 239,649 248,481 VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 1. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA - (Continued) (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 (unaudited) (unaudited) (unaudited) Statement of Cash Flow Data: Net cash provided by operating activities $ 2,750 $ 28,742 $ 23,468 Net cash used in investing activities (10,774) (358.046) (6,397) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 20,786 308.342 (25,062) Capital expenditures and acquisition and development of software assets (10,774) (9.861) (6,397) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 (unaudited) (audited) Balance Sheet Data (at period end): Cash and cash equivalents $ 18,254 $ 5,057 Restricted cash 1,872 2,047 Accounts receivable, net of allowance 73,375 75,342 Inventory, net of allowance 1,322 1,470 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 34,010 34,130 Deferred customer acquisition costs, current and non-current 54,565 49,636 Property and equipment, net 48,776 49,262 Goodwill 602,301 598,499 Operating lease right of use assets 53,042 Software, net 21,001 17,430 Intangible assets, net 287,800 299,911 Deferred tax assets 113,642 102,560 Other assets 25,759 24,144 Total assets $ 1,335,719 $ 1,259,488 Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 129,747 $ 140,632 Operating lease liabilities, current and non-current 60,891 Deferred revenue, current and non-current 53,628 53,447 Total notes payable, net of debt related costs and indebtedness under revolving credit facility, including current portion 558,265 519,228 Other liabilities 3,046 10,413 Total liabilities $ 805,577 $ 723,720 Total stockholders' equity $ 530,142 $ 535,768 VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 2. SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED OPERATING DATA (Dollars in thousands, except per line amounts) (unaudited) The table below includes revenues and cost of revenues that our management uses to measure the growth and operating performance of the business focused portion of our business: Business Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Revenues: Service revenues $ 159,345 $ 149,004 $ 116,302 Access and product revenues(1) 11,697 12,394 12,531 Service, access and product revenues 171,042 161,398 128,833 USF revenues 8,555 8,601 7,835 Total revenues $ 179,597 $ 169,999 $ 136,668 Cost of Revenues: Service cost of revenues(2) $ 69,854 $ 66,179 $ 52,982 Access and product cost of revenues(1) 13,871 14,790 14,491 Service, access and product cost of revenues 83,725 80,969 67,473 USF revenues 8,555 8,601 7,840 Total cost of revenues $ 92,280 $ 89,570 $ 75,313 Service margin % 56.2 % 55.6 % 54.4 % Gross margin % ex-USF (Service, access and product margin %) 51.1 % 49.8 % 47.6 % Gross margin % 48.6 % 47.3 % 44.9 % (1) Includes customer premise equipment, access, professional services, and shipping and handling. (2) Excludes depreciation and amortization of $8,214, $7,462, and $4,973 for the quarters ended March 31, 2019, December 31, 2018 and March 31, 2018, respectively. The table below includes revenues and cost of revenues that our management uses to measure the growth and operating performance of the consumer focused portion of our business: Consumer Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Revenues: Service revenues $ 89,000 $ 92,435 $ 104,394 Access and product revenues(1) 68 87 91 Service, access and product revenues 89,068 92,522 104,485 USF revenues 10,876 11,282 12,420 Total revenues $ 99,944 $ 103,804 $ 116,905 Cost of Revenues: Service cost of revenues(2) $ 9,258 $ 10,389 $ 14,014 Access and product cost of revenues(1) 997 632 1,794 Service, access and product cost of revenues 10,255 11,021 15,808 USF revenues 10,876 11,282 12,446 Total cost of revenues $ 21,131 $ 22,303 $ 28,254 Service margin % 89.6 % 88.8 % 86.6 % Gross margin % ex-USF (Service, access and product margin %) 88.5 % 88.1 % 84.9 % Gross margin % 78.9 % 78.5 % 75.8 % (1) Includes customer premise equipment, access, professional services, and shipping and handling. (2) Excludes depreciation and amortization of $1,204, $1,246, $1,461 for the quarters ended March 31, 2019, December 31, 2018 and March 31, 2018, respectively. The table below includes key operating data that our management uses to measure the growth and operating performance of the business focused portion of our business: Business Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Service revenue per customer $ 408 $ 392 $ 328 Business revenue churn 1.2 % 1.1 % 1.2 % The table below includes key operating data that our management uses to measure the growth and operating performance of the consumer focused portion of our business: Consumer Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Average monthly revenues per line $ 26.43 $ 26.32 $ 26.58 Subscriber lines (at period end) 1,232,857 1,287,649 1,439,669 Customer churn 1.9 % 1.8 % 1.9 % VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 3. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP INCOME FROM OPERATIONS TO ADJUSTED OIBDA AND TO ADJUSTED OIBDA MINUS CAPEX (Dollars in thousands) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Income from operations $ (2,592) $ 6,021 $ 17,668 Depreciation and amortization 21,214 19,094 16,800 Amortization of costs to implement cloud computing arrangements 125 Share-based expense 7,940 9,330 6,709 Acquisition related transaction and integration costs 191 4,704 Acquisition related consideration accounted for as compensation 827 Organizational transformation 4,658 2,030 109 Adjusted OIBDA 31,536 41,179 42,113 Less: Capital expenditures (5,277) (8,345) (3,250) Acquisition and development of software assets (5,497) (1,516) (3,147) Adjusted OIBDA Minus Capex $ 20,762 $ 31,318 $ 35,716 VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 4. RECONCILIATION OF GAAP NET INCOME TO NET INCOME EXCLUDING ADJUSTMENTS (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Net (loss) income $ (534) $ (6,943) $ 24,524 Amortization of acquisition - related intangibles 14,179 11,770 8,830 Amortization of costs to implement cloud computing arrangements 125 Acquisition related transaction and integration costs 191 4,704 Acquisition related consideration accounted for as compensation 827 Organizational transformation 4,658 2,030 109 Tax effect on adjusting items (4,022) (370) (3,301) Net income excluding adjustments $ 14,597 $ 11,191 $ 30,989 Earnings (loss) per common share: Basic $ $ (0.03) $ 0.11 Diluted $ $ (0.03) $ 0.10 Weighted-average common shares outstanding: Basic 240,527 239,649 233,034 Diluted 240,527 239,649 248,481 Earnings per common share, excluding adjustments: Basic $ 0.06 $ 0.05 $ 0.13 Diluted $ 0.06 $ 0.04 $ 0.12 Weighted-average common shares outstanding: Basic 240,527 239,649 233,034 Diluted 246,346 249,208 248,481 VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 5. RECONCILIATION OF BUSINESS SEGMENT - GAAP REVENUES AND SERVICE REVENUES TO BUSINESS SEGMENT - ADJUSTED REVENUES, ADJUSTED SERVICE REVENUES, ADJUSTED APPLICATION SERVICE REVENUES AND ADJUSTED API PLATFORM SERVICE REVENUES (Dollars in thousands) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Business total revenues $ 179,597 $ 169,999 $ 136,668 Deferred revenue adjustment from acquired companies 2,499 2,173 Revenue from acquired companies (prior to acquisition) less revenue from divested businesses 6,102 18,764 Outage credits and significant one-time items 1,500 Adjusted business total revenues $ 182,096 $ 179,774 $ 155,432 Business service revenues $ 159,345 $ 149,004 $ 116,302 Deferred revenue adjustment from acquired companies 2,499 2,173 Revenue from acquired companies (prior to acquisition) less revenue from divested businesses 6,083 18,622 Outage credits and significant one-time items 1,500 Adjusted business service revenues $ 161,844 $ 158,760 $ 134,924 Business service revenues $ 159,345 $ 149,004 $ 116,302 Less: API Platform service revenue 59,863 59,831 41,987 Application service revenue 99,482 89,173 74,315 Deferred revenue adjustment from acquired companies 2,499 2,173 Revenue from acquired companies (prior to acquisition) less revenue from divested businesses 6,083 16,030 Outage credits and significant one-time items 1,500 Adjusted application service revenues $ 101,981 $ 98,929 $ 90,345 Business service revenues $ 159,345 $ 149,004 $ 116,302 Less: Application service revenue 99,482 89,173 74,315 API Platform service revenue 59,863 59,831 41,987 Revenue from acquired companies prior to acquisition 2,592 Adjusted API platform service revenues $ 59,863 $ 59,831 $ 44,579 VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 6. FREE CASH FLOW (Dollars in thousands) (unaudited) Three Months Ended March 31, December 31, March 31, 2019 2018 2018 Net cash provided by operating activities $ 2,750 $ 28,742 $ 23,468 Less: Capital expenditures (5,277) (8,345) (3,250) Acquisition and development of software assets (5,497) (1,516) (3,147) Free cash flow $ (8,024) $ 18,881 $ 17,071 VONAGE HOLDINGS CORP. TABLE 7. RECONCILIATION OF NOTES PAYABLE, INDEBTEDNESS UNDER REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY, AND CAPITAL LEASES TO NET DEBT (Dollars in thousands) (unaudited) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 Current portion of notes payable 10,000 10,000 Notes payable and indebtedness under revolving credit facility, net of current maturities and debt related costs 548,265 509,228 Unamortized debt related costs 735 772 Gross debt 559,000 520,000 Less: Unrestricted cash 18,254 5,057 Net debt $ 540,746 $ 514,943 About Vonage Vonage is redefining business communications, helping enterprises use fully-integrated unified communications, contact center, and programmable communications solutions via Nexmo, the Vonage API Platform, to improve how business gets done. True to our roots as a technology disruptor, we've embraced technology to transform how companies connect, collaborate and communicate to create better business outcomes. Vonage's fully-integrated cloud communications platform built on a microservices-based architecture enables businesses to collaborate more productively and engage their customers more effectively across all channels, including messaging, chat, social media, video and voice. Vonage Holdings Corp. is headquartered in Holmdel, New Jersey, with offices throughout the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Vonage is a registered trademark of Vonage Marketing LLC, owned by Vonage America Inc. Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures This press release includes measures defined as non-GAAP financial measures by Regulation G adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, including: adjusted Operating Income Before Depreciation and Amortization ("adjusted OIBDA"), adjusted OIBDA less Capex, adjusted net income, adjusted business total revenue, adjusted business service revenue, constant currency, net debt (cash), and free cash flow. Adjusted OIBDA Vonage uses adjusted OIBDA as a principal indicator of the operating performance of its business. Vonage defines adjusted OIBDA as GAAP income (loss) from operations excluding depreciation and amortization, share-based expense, acquisition related transaction and integration costs, change in contingent consideration, acquisition related consideration accounted for as compensation, organizational transformation costs and loss on sublease. Vonage believes that adjusted OIBDA permits a comparative assessment of its operating performance, relative to its performance based on its GAAP results, while isolating the effects of depreciation and amortization, which may vary from period to period without any correlation to underlying operating performance; of share-based expense, which is a non-cash expense that also varies from period to period; of one-time acquisition related transaction and integration costs, acquisition related consideration accounted for as compensation and change in contingent consideration, organizational transformation costs and loss on sublease. The Company provides information relating to its adjusted OIBDA so that investors have the same data that the Company employs in assessing its overall operations. The Company believes that trends in its Adjusted OIBDA are valuable indicators of the operating performance of the Company on a consolidated basis. The Company does not reconcile its forward-looking adjusted OIBDA to the corresponding GAAP measure of income from operations due to the significant variability and difficulty in making accurate forecasts with respect to the various expenses we exclude, as they may be significantly impacted by future events the timing and nature of which are difficult to predict or are not within the control of management. As such, the Company has determined that reconciliations of this forward-looking non-GAAP financial measure to the corresponding GAAP measure is not available without unreasonable effort. Adjusted OIBDA less Capex Vonage uses adjusted OIBDA less Capex as an indicator of the operating performance of its business. The Company provides information relating to its adjusted OIBDA less Capex so that investors have the same data that the Company employs in assessing its overall operations. The Company believes that trends in its Adjusted OIBDA less Capex are valuable indicators of the operating performance of the Company on a consolidated basis because they provide our investors with insight into current performance and period-to-period performance. Adjusted net income Vonage defines adjusted net income, as GAAP net income (loss) excluding amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets, acquisition related transaction and integration costs, change in contingent consideration, acquisition related consideration accounted for as compensation, organizational transformation costs, loss on sublease and tax effect on adjusting items. The Company believes that excluding these items will assist investors in evaluating the Company's operating performance and in better understanding its results of operations as amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets is a non-cash item, one-time acquisition related transaction and integration costs, change in contingent consideration, acquisition related consideration accounted for as compensation, loss on sublease and tax effect on adjusting items are not reflective of operating performance. Constant Currency Vonage reviews its results of operations on both an as reported and on a constant currency basis. The constant currency presentation, which is a non-GAAP measure, excludes the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. We believe providing constant currency information provides valuable supplemental information regarding our results of operations, consistent with how we evaluate our performance. We calculate constant currency percentages by converting our current period local currency financial results using the prior period exchange rates and comparing these adjusted amounts to our prior period reported results. Net debt (cash) Vonage defines net debt (cash) as the current maturities of capital lease obligations, current portion of notes payable, notes payable and indebtedness under revolving credit facility, net of current maturities and debt related costs, and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities, less unrestricted cash and marketable securities. Vonage uses net debt (cash) as a measure of assessing leverage, as it reflects the gross debt under the Company's credit agreements and capital leases less cash available to repay such amounts. The Company believes that net cash is also a factor that first parties consider in valuing the Company. Free cash flow Vonage defines free cash flow as net cash provided by operating activities minus capital expenditures, purchase of intangible assets, and acquisition and development of software assets. Vonage considers free cash flow to be a liquidity measure that provides useful information to management about the amount of cash generated by the business that, after the acquisition of equipment and software, can be used by Vonage for debt service and strategic opportunities. Free cash flow is not a measure of cash available for discretionary expenditures since the Company has certain non-discretionary obligations such as debt service that are not deducted from the measure. The non-GAAP financial measures used by Vonage may not be directly comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies due to differences in accounting policies and items excluded or included in the adjustments, which limits its usefulness as a comparative measure. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with GAAP, but should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, GAAP results. Adjusted business total revenue and Adjusted business service revenue Vonage defines adjusted business total revenue and adjusted business service revenues as business segment revenue and business segment service revenues to give effect for acquisition-related activities and other one-time items. The Company does not reconcile its forward-looking adjusted business total revenue and adjusted business service revenue to the corresponding GAAP measures due to the significant variability and difficulty in making accurate forecasts with respect to the various acquisition-related and one-time events that we exclude, as they may be significantly impacted by future events the timing and nature of which are difficult to predict or are not within the control of management. As such, the Company has determined that reconciliations of these forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the corresponding GAAP measures is not available without unreasonable effort. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements about acquisitions, acquisition integration, financing activity, growth priorities or plans, revenues, adjusted OIBDA, churn, seats, lines or accounts, average revenue per user, cost of telephony services, capital expenditures, new products and related investment, and other statements that are not historical facts or information, that constitute forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In addition, other statements in this press release that are not historical facts or information may be forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are based on information available at the time the statements are made and/or management's belief as of that time with respect to future events and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and outcomes to be materially different. Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to: the competition we face; the expansion of competition in the cloud communications market; risks related to the acquisition or integration of businesses we have acquired; our ability to adapt to rapid changes in the cloud communications market; the nascent state of the cloud communications for business market; our ability to retain customers and attract new customers cost-effectively; the risk associated with developing and maintaining effective internal sales teams and effective distribution channels; security breaches and other compromises of information security; risks associated with sales of our services to medium-sized and enterprise customers; our reliance on third-party hardware and software; our dependence on third-party facilities, equipment, systems and services; system disruptions or flaws in our technology and systems; our ability to comply with data privacy and related regulatory matters; our ability to scale our business and grow efficiently; our dependence on third party vendors; the impact of fluctuations in economic conditions, particularly on our small and medium business customers; our ability to obtain or maintain relevant intellectual property licenses or to protect our trademarks and internally developed software; restrictions in our debt agreements that may limit our operating flexibility; our ability to obtain additional financing if required; fraudulent use of our name or services; intellectual property and other litigation that have been and may be brought against us; reliance on third parties for our 911 services; uncertainties relating to regulation of business services; risks associated with legislative, regulatory or judicial actions regarding our business products; risks associated with operating abroad; risks associated with the taxation of our business; governmental regulation and taxes in our international operations; liability under anti-corruption laws or from governmental export controls or economic sanctions; our dependence on our customers' unimpeded access to broadband connections; foreign currency exchange risk; our history of net losses and ability to achieve consistent profitability in the future; our ability to fully realize the benefits of our net operating loss carry-forwards if an ownership change occurs; certain provisions of our charter documents; and other factors that are set forth in the "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 and in the Company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC. While the Company may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so except as required by law, and therefore, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as representing the Company's views as of any date subsequent to today. (vg-f) SOURCE Vonage Holdings Corp. NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- C2 Energy Capital, LLC announced today that it executed 46 Power Purchase Agreements and leases with Walmart Inc. to provide solar power at the retailer's operations in five states. These agreements represent a tangible commitment by Walmart to achieve the retailer's goal to have 50 percent of its operations powered by renewable energy by 2025. The solar installations will produce more than 65,000,000 kWh of renewable energy annually, enough energy to power nearly 5,500 homes, and are expected to supply approximately 10-60 percent of each stores' overall electricity use. "Solar is a vital component of Walmart's expanding renewable energy portfolio," said Mark Vanderhelm, vice president of energy for Walmart Inc. "Walmart plans to tirelessly pursue renewable energy projects that are right for our customers, our business and the environment. These planned projects with C2 Energy Capital are moving us in the right direction toward our renewable energy goals." This landmark commercial solar deal comes one year after Walmart chose C2 Energy Capital to install 13 solar projects in South Carolina, some of the first projects to take advantage of solar incentives in the state. The rooftop projects are all currently in operation, with the exception of a ground-mount project that is underway at a Walmart distribution center in Laurens, SC. "Walmart is a seasoned expert at onsite solar generation, and they have high expectations for their vendor partners. We are honored to be a part of their renewable energy program, and the important steps they are taking that will benefit the local communities and the environment," said Candice Michalowicz, Co-founder and Managing Member of C2. ABOUT C2 ENERGY CAPITAL C2 Energy Capital, LLC (the "Firm") is a rapidly growing investor in renewable energy and storage assets. The Firm provides capital and support services for the development and construction of assets as part of a long-term ownership strategy. Founded in 2014, the Firm manages capital on behalf of leading investors and is a Registered Investment Adviser. With a steadfast commitment to building long-term relationships, C2 Energy Capital's experienced leadership team collaborates with developers, vendors and power purchasers to safely deliver high-quality power plants. To learn more visit www.c2.energy (important disclosure information). SOURCE C2 Energy Capital, LLC Related Links http://www.c2.energy NEW YORK, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Weber Shandwick, one of the world's leading global communications and marketing services firms, was recognized with Diamond and Gold SABRE awards across eight categories at The Holmes Report's 2019 North America SABRE Awards in New York making Weber Shandwick the most award-winning firm of the night. With client partner Buick Canada, Weber Shandwick Canada won the Diamond SABRE award for Superior Achievement in Brand-Building for its BuickStyle, The Ultimate Driving Shoe campaign. And for the second year in a row, Weber Shandwick was recognized with a Gold SABRE in the Thought Leadership In PR category, this year for Civility In America: A Nationwide Survey, which found that workplaces are becoming a rare escape from the polarization that characterizes much of American discourse. "I am proud of our talented people and client partners who make these achievements possible. Being focused on the business of our clients, and driving ideas that go beyond the status quo reinforces Weber Shandwick's commitment to delivering solutions for our clients, and making a meaningful impact in the communities in which we live and serve," said Sara Gavin, president of Weber Shandwick North America. Weber Shandwick, with its client partners, was recognized with an additional six Gold SABRE awards: Victory Fridge with AB InBev, Bud Light and 3PM (Weber Shandwick in partnership with PMK-BNC) won in Sponsorship (Weber Shandwick in partnership with PMK-BNC) won in Sponsorship Making Nexxus Keraphix a Platinum Power Player with Unilever, Nexxus won in Fashion & Beauty Recognizing 100 Difference Makers with $1M for A Better Tomorrow with TIAA won in Financial Services for A Better Tomorrow with TIAA won in Financial Services Respect the Egg with Panera Bread and Sloane & Company won in Food Service Launching the Alliance to End Plastic Waste won in Chemicals & Industrials Employees First: VMware Elevates Employees as Drivers of Digital Transformation with VMware won in Technology: Software & Services The 2019 North America SABRE Award recognitions are among several honors earned by Weber Shandwick, including Ad Age's Best Places to Work, in 2019, and PRWeek's Global Agency of the Year for four consecutive years, most recently in 2018. Weber Shandwick was also named The Holmes Report's Global Agency of the Year in 2017. Weber Shandwick has been named a finalist for 10 EMEA SABRE Awards which will be presented in London on May 22. About Weber Shandwick Weber Shandwick is a leading global communications and marketing solutions firm in 79 cities with a network extending to 129 cities around the world. The firm's diverse team of strategists, analysts, producers, designers, developers and campaign activators has won the most prestigious awards in the world for innovative, creative approaches and impactful work. Weber Shandwick was the only public relations agency included on the Advertising Age Agency A-list in 2014 and 2015 and the only PR firm designated an A-List Agency Standout in 2017 and 2018. Weber Shandwick was honored as PRWeek's Global Agency of the Year in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018, The Holmes Report's Global Agency of the Year in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2015 and 2017, and The Holmes Report's Global Digital Agency of the Year in 2016. The firm deploys deep expertise across sectors and specialty areas, including consumer marketing, corporate reputation, healthcare, technology, public affairs, financial services, employee engagement, social impact, financial communications and crisis management, using proprietary social, digital and analytics methodologies. Weber Shandwick is part of the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG). For more information, visit http://www.webershandwick.com. Contact: Jill Tannenbaum Company: Weber Shandwick Phone: 212-546-7815 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Weber Shandwick Related Links http://webershandwick.com SWANTON, Ohio, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Willy's Fresh Salsa, a national supplier of all-natural fresh salsa, announced today that Southeastern Grocers has agreed to carry all seven Willy's flavors in all of its stores including BI-LO, Fresco y Mas, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie. Stores started receiving product in April. Sara Campbell, Director of Sales said, "We're very excited to add Winn-Dixie to our growing list of distributors and especially excited because Winn-Dixie becomes our first state-wide Florida retailer. For years our fans in Florida have been asking for Willy's, and now Willy's Fresh Salsa can be purchased at over 280 Winn-Dixie locations from Pensacola to Key West. This also gives us deeper penetration into Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina where BI-LO, Fresco y Mas, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie also have major presences." Willy's Fresh Salsa began in the kitchen of founder, Dennis Dickey, where he made it for family and friends. After years of encouragement to make his salsa available to the public, he decided to do it and Willy's Fresh Salsa was born. After 13 years of producing and selling the best-tasting, healthiest, highest-quality fresh salsa on the market, Willy's is now available in over 7,000 stores across 40 states and the District of Columbia - and soon to be available nationwide. CAUTION: HIGHLY ADDICTIVE. www.willyssalsa.com Winn Dixie Stores, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Southeastern Grocers, Inc. based in Jacksonville, Florida with approximately 367 stores spread across Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Louisiana. Southeastern Grocers, Inc. is the 6th largest supermarket chain in the US and was ranked #31 on the 2015 Forbes list of the largest privately held companies in the US. Other banners under the Southeastern Grocers umbrella include BI-LO, Fresco y Mas and Harveys Supermarket, which make up another 184 stores and add North Carolina and South Carolina to the company's footprint. Media Contact: Todd Latham 419.823.3200 [email protected] 11305 Airport Service Road Swanton, OH 43558 419.823.3200 www.willyssalsa.com SOURCE Willy's Fresh Salsa Related Links http://www.willyssalsa.com SAN DIEGO, May 8, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Shareholder rights law firm Johnson Fistel, LLP has launched an investigation into whether the board members of Zayo Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ZAYO) ("Zayo") breached their fiduciary duties in connection with the proposed sale of the Company to investment firms Digital Colony Partners LP and EQT. On May 8, 2019, Zayo announced that it had signed a definitive merger agreement with Digital Colony and EQT. Under the terms of the agreement, shareholders will receive $35.00 in cash per share of Zayo's common stock. The investigation concerns whether the Zayo board failed to satisfy its duties to the Company shareholders, including whether the board adequately pursued alternatives to the acquisition and whether the board obtained the best price possible for Zayo shares of common stock. Nationally recognized Johnson Fistel is investigating whether the proposed deal represents adequate consideration; especially given that one Wall Street analyst has a $45.00 price target on the stock. The 52-week high for Zayo was $39.66. If you are a shareholder of Zayo and believe the proposed buyout price is too low or you're interested in learning more about the investigation or your legal rights and remedies, please contact lead analyst Jim Baker ( [email protected] ) at 619-814-4471. If emailing, please include a phone number. Additionally, you can [Click here to join this action]. There is no cost or obligation to you. About Johnson Fistel, LLP: Johnson Fistel, LLP is a nationally recognized shareholder rights law firm with offices in California, New York, and Georgia. The firm represents individual and institutional investors in shareholder derivative and securities class action lawsuits. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit https://www.johnsonfistel.com. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Contact: Johnson Fistel, LLP Jim Baker, 619-814-4471 [email protected] [Click here to join this action] SOURCE Johnson Fistel, LLP Related Links http://www.johnsonfistel.com New Delhi, May 8 : Mahatma Gandhi's maiden visit to the Punjab in the aftermath of Jallianwala Bagh massacre changed him from an "Empire loyalist" to the "implacable opponent" of the British rule, contends a book published on the occasion of the centenary anniversary of the incident. The book named 'Martyrdom to Freedom', which is edited by Rajesh Ramachandran, Editor of Tribune, has several chapters written by scholars, historians, and a former diplomat. In one of the chapters, historian Ramachandra Guha says Gandhi was shaken after officials behind the massacre were not punished despite him recommending that "both General (Reginald) Dyer, the Butcher of Amritsar, and the Lieutenant Governor at that time, Sir Michael O'Dwyer, be relieved from 'any responsible office under the crown'". However, the Viceroy euphemized Brigadier General Dyer's action and gave O'Dwyer a "resounding" certificate of character. "This whitewashing of egregious behaviour of the Punjab government put as enormous strain on Gandhi's once fervent faith in British justice," Guha writes. It forced him Gandhi to launch a fresh movement of protest and he believed that British could be made to yield under the pressure of non- violent struggle. "Before 1919, Gandhi had never visited the Punjab. But what he did and saw in the province that year changed him forever. On the political front, it transformed him from an Empire loyalist to an implacable opponent of British rule," Guha contends. He says Gandhi was very keen to travel to Punjab in the wake of "politically conscious" province becoming centre of Ghadar movement and its past record of active participation in Swadeshi movement in 1905-07. Gandhi left then Bombay for Delhi on April 8, 1919, from where he hoped to proceed to the Punjab. However, he was stopped by the police so he returned to Ahmedabad. "When news of Gandhi's arrest reached Amritsar on the 10th (April), a large and angry crowd collected on the streets. British banks were set on fire and three bank managers murdered...The violence continued through 10th and 11th," the writer says. The city was placed under de facto martial law and the charge was given to Dyer. On April 13, Dyer ordered to open fire on the crowd that was gathered at Jallianwala Bagh as a part of Baisakhi celebration. After denying several requests, the authorities permitted Gandhi to visit Punjab in October. He left for Lahore on October 22, 1919. Two days later he reached Lahore and then went to Amritsar after a week. Los Angeles, May 8 : An 18-year-old student was killed and seven other were injured in a shooting occurred Tuesday afternoon at a school near Denver, capital of the US western state of Colorado, local police confirmed. "It is with extreme sadness that we can confirm that one student at the STEM School was killed in today's #stemshooting incident. The immediate family has been notified. Douglas County Coroner Jill Romann has not officially identified the student is stating it's an 18 year old male," Douglas County Sheriff's Office tweeted about five hours after the fatal incident. Two suspects entered the school just before 2 p.m. (local time) and "got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations," according to Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock, the Xinhua news agency reported. Both suspects were arrested by the policemen arriving at the scene in time, Spurlock said at a press briefing, adding the investigators had recovered a handgun, but had no clue on the suspects' initiations and particular target. Baghdad, May 8 : US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has made an unscheduled, fleeting visit to Iraq, amid growing tensions with Iran. Details released by the US, however, did not make it clear whether he met with Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi during his short visit here. Pompeo had cancelled a trip to Berlin to meet with Iraqi leaders during a four-hour stop in the national capital, the BBC reported. The visit came days after a US aircraft carrier was deployed to the region, which officials said was in response to threats to US forces and its allies from Iran. On Tuesday it was revealed the US was sending B-52 bombers to the region. The US has so far given little information about the exact nature of the reported threat, which Iran has dismissed as nonsense. Speaking to reporters after his meetings, Pompeo directly linked the visit to the recent escalation with Iran, which neighbours Iraq. The deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln was announced on Sunday. Pompeo also said that he wanted to "speak with the leadership (in Iraq), to assure them that we stood ready to continue to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation". He also said he wanted to help them become less dependent on energy deals with Iran, the BBC reported. John Bolton, the US national security adviser, had then only said the US was acting "in response to a number of troubling and escalatory indications and warnings". In response, Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted that "the #B_Team is at it again". "From announcements of naval movements (that actually occurred last month) to dire warnings about so-called 'Iranian threats'," he added. "If US and clients don't feel safe, it's because they're despised by the people of the region -- blaming Iran won't reverse that." Last month, the White House said it would end exemptions from sanctions for five countries -- China, India, Japan, South Korea and Turkey -- that were still buying Iranian oil, the BBC report added. At the same time the US also blacklisted Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard Corps, designating it as a foreign terrorist group. The Trump administration hopes to compel Iran to negotiate a "new deal" that would cover not only its nuclear activities, but also its ballistic missile programme and what officials call its "malign behaviour" across the Middle East. The sanctions have led to a sharp downturn in Iran's economy, pushing the value of its currency to record lows, driving away foreign investors, and triggering protests. London, May 8 : With Brexit delayed, the UK will have to hold European elections, despite hopes from the government that the deal would be done by then, said the Prime Minister's de facto deputy. The vote is due from May 23 to 26. Theresa May has said the UK would not have to take part if MPs agreed on a Brexit plan first. The UK was due to leave the EU on March 29, but as no deal was agreed by Parliament, the EU extended the deadline to October 31. If the UK did not leave by May 23, it was legally obliged to take part in the EU-wide poll and to send MEPs to Brussels. The deadline to register for the EU elections was Tuesday. David Lidington has now said "regrettably" it was "not going to be possible to finish that process" before the date so the UK legally has to take part. He said the government though would try to make the delay "as short as possible", the BBC reported. Warsaw, May 8 : Polish police say Elzbieta Podlesna put up posters of the revered Black Madonna that showed the Virgin Mary and Jesus with rainbows from the LGBT flag as the halos. This can lead to two years in prison for the artist for offending religious feelings. The 51-year-old artist was detained by authorities as she returned from an Amnesty International advocacy tour. Podlesna put up the posters in the small city of Plock in Poland. The poster has drawn fierce opposition across Poland, where the depiction of the Virgin Mary and Jesus is iconic and revered by Catholics. The Black Madonna resides in the Jasna Gora monastery, one of the holiest shrines in Poland. Police claim they have found even more posters on searching her car and home, the CNN reported. CNN identified Podlesna because she has agreed to reveal her name to the media. Normally under Polish law, it is illegal to report the name of a suspect until the trial is over. Her lawyer, Radoslaw Baszuk, told CNN they plan on fighting the charges in court. He argued the way in which these paintings were presented, they didn't publicly insult or desecrate a religious image. "(She) has not admitted to committing the crime," her lawyer, Radoslaw Baszuk told CNN. "That does not mean that she did not deny participation in this event." "No whim of freedom and 'tolerance' gives anyone the right to offend the feelings of believers," Polish Interior Minister Joachim Brudzinski tweeted. Amnesty International said Podlesna was detained for her "peaceful activism". Chennai, May 8 : After facing a crushing six-wicket defeat against Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper M.S. Dhoni criticised his batsmen, saying they should have batted sensibly in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) edition. On a slow Chinnaswamy pitch which turned, CSK managed only 131 for 4 in their stipulated quota of 20 overs and MI chased down the target with nine balls to spare, here on Tuesday. For most of this season, Dhoni has been bailing out CSK of trouble hiding its batting flaws. Shane Watson is completely out of form while senior batsmen like Suresh Raina and Ambati Radayu have not performed according to the expectations. "I think the batting needs to get better. These are the best batsmen we have got, it looks like we are batting well, but at times, in different games, they pull off shots that shouldn't be played," said Dhoni in the post-match presentation ceremony. "These are the players who we have banked on, they have the experience and they should know to assess the conditions better, hopefully, we will do well in the next game," he added. The CSK skipper further said they failed to read the pitch and played some shots which they shouldn't have played on a turning Chepauk track. "Somebody has to lose, things really didn't go our way, especially batting. At home, we had to assess the conditions quickly. We have played six to seven games on this pitch and should have read the pitch better, that's the home advantage," said Dhoni "We needed to know how the pitch behaves, would it be tacky or not? Is the ball coming on or not? Those were the things we didn't do well," he added. Chennai, who finished at the second spot in the league stage, will get another shot at the title clash as they will face the winner of the Eliminator between Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 on Friday. "It isn't good to lose games at such times, but it is good that we finished in the top-two, rather then going over the wicket (straight to the finals), we now need to go round the wicket (to qualifier 2), that means the journey takes a longer time. But luckily, we finished in the top-two and that gives us a second chance," said Dhoni. Latest updates on 2019 Indian Premier League San Francisco, May 8 : In an attempt to augment employee skills, Microsoft has announced a new Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled feature for Word that would suggest rewrites for complex sentences along with other necessary edits to make sure language being used is gender inclusive. Explaing the in a blog-post on Tuesday the company said that, "Writing requires a dash of uniquely human creativity and AI alone cannot do it for us but it already is helping us do things like make sure we spell words correctly and use correct grammar." "You don't need to search online to find an alternative way to express a phrase," said Zhang Li, Senior Programme Manager, Microsoft Office team, explaining that the intelligence service will surface suggestions within the document. The announcement was first made at Microsoft's Build 2019 conference that is going on in Seattle. At the event, the software giant also announced the general availability of Microsoft Search -- which is an enterprise search platform from the company. "The technology brings access to the web and work into a single search experience. Beginning on May 28, Microsoft Search will move to general availability," John Roach. Microsoft executive confirmed in a blog-post. In addition, the Windows-maker mentioned that its Edge browser team is also experimenting with a feature called "Collections" that allows users to compile and organise content as they browse the internet in their open browser window and intelligently share the compiled content via email or export it to Excel or Word. San Francisco, May 8 : Tech titan Google is looking into foldable technology even as Samsung's first-ever super premium foldable phone flamed out in embarrassing fashion. "Google has also experimented with the foldable form, said Mario Queiroz, who leads development of Pixel phones, ahead of the search giant's I/O developer conference. But Google isn't in a rush to get a folding product to market," the CNET reported late on Tuesday. The tech giant's foray into foldables wouldn't be much of a surprise as Google revealed native Android support for foldable displays in November 2018, ahead of the official Samsung Galaxy Fold reveal that same month. "But given how closely the Apple playbook is followed, it's rare that tech companies in the mobile hardware game explicitly confirm that they're looking into new, exciting designs," the report added. It is unclear how the company would develop its foldable prototype or how its screen would operate when opened and closed. Samsung's foldable device - the Galaxy Fold - has a smaller screen on the front and opens up into a larger one on the inside while Huawei's foldable phone - Mate X - has a different design that puts its eight-inch screen on the outside. Tehran, May 8 : Iran will partially withdraw from the 2015 landmark nuclear deal signed with six other nations, President Hassan Rouhani announced on Wednesday, a move that comes a year after the US unilaterally withdrew from the pact. In a televised speech, Rouhani said that Tehran would reduce its "commitments" to the deal, but would not fully withdraw and that signatories of the deal -- France, the UK, Germany, Russia and China -- had been informed in advance of the move. According to the President, Iran would keep enriched uranium stocks in the country and not sell them abroad. He also threatened to resume production of higher enriched uranium in 60 days. Rouhani accused "hardliners" in the US of working to undermine the agreement, saying it was "in the interests of the region and the world, but not the enemies of Iran, therefore they spared no effort since 2015 to undermine (the deal)", CNN reported. The accord is aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief, but Tehran-Washington tensions have risen since the US withdrew from the deal. US President Donald Trump later reimposed sanctions on Tehran, hitting its economy. "The Islamic Republic of Iran declares that at the current stage, it does not any more see itself committed to respecting the limitations on keeping enriched uranium and heavy water reserves," Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) said in a statement. The SNSC said other partners would have 60 days to lift pressure from Iran caused by the US sanctions, otherwise the country "will cease implementation of restrictions on uranium enrichment levels". The announcement comes after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unscheduled visit to Iraq, and a US aircraft carrier was deployed to the Gulf region. Islamabad, May 8 : Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was cleared by the Supreme Court of blasphemy charges last year after spending eight years on death row, has left the country, officials said on Wednesday. "Aasia Bibi has left the country. She is a free person and travelled on her independent will," Dawn online reported citing a Foreign Office source. Though the Pakistani media reports did not specify where Bibi has gone or when she left, CNN quoted her lawyer Saif Ul Malook as saying that she is in Canada. The mother of five from Pakistan's Punjab province was taken out of the country after repeated death threats from religious extremists following the quashing of her conviction for blasphemy. She has been separated from her family and living in safe houses since the 2018 overturning of the sentence. Her children are already in Canada. Bibi was convicted in 2010 and sentenced to hang after she was accused of insulting the Prophet Mohammed during a row with her neighbours. The apex court's quashing of Bibi's sentence last October led to violent protests by religious hardliners who support strong blasphemy laws, while more liberal sections of society urged her release. Before Bibi's conviction was overturned, far-right Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) vowed to take to the streets if she was freed. Massive protests paralyzed the country for three days after the ruling was announced. The group went on the rampage when Bibi's was acquitted, with protesters jamming into cities, attacking public property and burning cars. Varanasi, May 8 : Kakarhiya village in Varanasi district is sending a message that is loud and clear to the opposition parties. Posters screaming "Yeh chowkidaron ka gaon hai, yahan choron ka aana varjit hai" (This is a village of chowkidars and the entry of thieves is banned) have come up in the village. Kakarhiya village had been adopted by Prime minister Narendra Modi in October 2017 under the Adarsh Gram Yojana. Development that has taken place after the village was adopted has changed the life of the villagers. "We now have roads, proper sanitation, toilets and electricity. What more do we want? We will not allow anyone who is against Modi to enter the village and campaign. For us, it is Modi all the way," says Kartik Kashyap, an undergraduate. The posters, according to sources, have already had the desired impact and some other villages like Jayapur that was one of the first villages to be adopted by the Prime Minister, are planning to put up similar posters. Opposition parties, including the Congress and the SP-BSP alliance, have not yet announced any meeting in these villages. "Hum kisi ko meeting nahin karne denge" (We will not allow any meeting here), says Ramu Lal, a local. He adds: "Jo chowkidar ko chor kehte hain, wo khud chor hai. Hum sab chowkidar hain" (Those who claim that 'chowkidar chor hai' are thieves themselves. We are all chowkidars). New Delhi, May 8 : The Finance Ministry is closely watching the economic costs of oil imports from other alternative markets like Iraq and Saudi Arabia, following the United States' withdrawal earlier this month of the waiver granted last year to some countries by the US on its Iran sanctions. Following the withdrawal of the US waiver, India has stopped contracting oil shipments from Iran this weekend, an official source said here on Wednesday. Petroleum Minister Dharmenra Pradhan last month had said that government has put in place a robust plan for the adequate supply of crude oil to Indian refineries. There will be additional supplies from other major oil producing countries and Ind ian refineries are fully prepared to meet the national demand for petrol, diesel and other petroleum products, he said. With 80 per cent of India's requirements being met through imports, higher-priced oil from non-Iranian sources can make a big dent in the country's current account deficit and forex reserves. Oil imports from Iran in the past fiscal ended March amounted to about $9 billion, as per industry figures. Official sources here said that getting oil from alternative sources would have financial implications and lead to further pressure when crude touches $75-80 per barrel in the near-term, putting pressure on India's import bill. Iran used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days compared to other crude suppliers, while the cargo insurance was free, the sources said. Imports from Iraq, UAE and Saudi Arabia will now be on the higher side, without some of the benefits that Iran was giving, they added. Iran's eight biggest oil buyers - China, India, Japan, South Korea, Italy, Greece, Turkey and Taiwan - had received the US waivers last November, which had allowed them to continue importing limited volumes of Iranian crude. Though India has not yet officially made known its position on future Iranian crude imports, imports from Iran were down 57 per cent in April on a year-on-year basis, according to industry sources. The decline was 31.5 per cent on the previous month's imports. India is scheduled to receive two crude carriers carrying 4 million barrels of Iranian oil this month. The two deliveries were loaded in April, prior to the end of the waiver that came into effect on May 2. India has been Iran's second largest customer of oil, after China. Tehran, May 8 : Iran will partially withdraw from the 2015 landmark nuclear deal signed with six other nations, President Hassan Rouhani announced on Wednesday and warned that his country will resume high level uranium enrichment if global powers fail to keep their commitments within the next 60 days. His announcement comes exactly a year after the US abandoned the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) it had signed with Iran along with Russia, China, France and the UK plus Germany as co-signatories. In a televised speech, Rouhani said Tehran was reducing its own commitments under the agreement and would no longer respect limits on its reserves of low-enriched uranium -- currently limited to 300 kg -- and heavy water. He added that the remaining parties to the deal had been informed in advance of the move. Rouhani issued a 60-day moratorium for rest of the signatories of the pact to fulfil Iran's demands and save the country's banking system and oil trade from international sanctions. He accused "hardliners" in the US of working to undermine the agreement, saying it was "in the interests of the region and the world, but not the enemies of Iran, therefore they spared no effort since 2015 to undermine (the deal)", CNN reported. "We have never been the first to violate the commitments or to wage wars, but at the same time we have never surrendered to bullying and will not do so, and we will certainly give appropriate response to any kind of aggression," he said. Rouhani specified that the measure -- which would mean Iran would not abide by the condition to sell its enriched uranium and heavy water beyond given limits -- had a 60-day deadline during which Tehran would wait for response from the remaining JCPOA signatories. The accord is aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions in return for sanctions relief, but Tehran-Washington tensions have risen since the US unilaterally withdrew from the deal. US President Donald Trump later reimposed sanctions on Tehran in August and November, mainly targeting its banking and oil sectors. "If the five countries come to the negotiation table to come to terms with Iran's interests, particularly with regard to oil and banking, we would return to the previous position," the Iranian President said. But if this doesn't happen, there would be further two-step response, according to Rouhani. It would include Iran not abiding with the commitment to not enrich uranium beyond the agreed limit of 3.67 per cent and taking steps to complete the Arak Heavy Water Reactor, which was supposed to be built with the help of signatories to the deal, Efe news reported. However, he said that the reduction in the number of nuclear commitments was aimed at saving the deal and that Iran had chosen the path of diplomacy and not war. Rouhani added that Iran had not left the dialogue table and was always ready to negotiate "within the very framework of the JCPOA". Slamming the other signatories to the deal, he said: "The European signatories... were doing well in lip service, but practically they were unable to implement what they vowed." His announcement came after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an unscheduled visit to Iraq and a US aircraft carrier was deployed to the Gulf region. Islamabad, May 8 : Aasia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman who was cleared by the country's Supreme Court of blasphemy charges last year after spending eight years on death row, has left Pakistan and arrived in Canada to reunite with her family, her lawyer and government officials said on Wednesday. The mother of five left for Canada on Tuesday and landed there after leaving Pakistan where she faced death threats from Islamist groups despite being exonerated by the apex court. "Asia Bibi reached Canada last night. She left Pakistan with her husband yesterday after the government permitted her to leave. Although it took long, finally she is safe, Alhamdulillah (Thank God)," her lawyer Saif ul Malook told Efe news. Pakistan's Dawn online cited a Foreign Office source as saying that "Aasia Bibi left on her independent will with full support and security from the Pakistani government". Another source from the Foreign Affairs Ministry told Efe news: "There was a certain procedure which led to the delay for her to leave the country... but all the arrangements were (made) by the government for her safe exit. "She is a free citizen and she could move wherever she wanted to," said the source. One of Bibi's close aides told Efe over phone that Bibi and her family members have been offered asylum in Canada. "The government says that they had to manage some internal issues with the religious parties and with other bodies so it took that long for her to leave the country," the aide said. Bibi was accused of insulting Prophet Mohammad during a row with her neighbours in 2009. A court sentenced her to death in 2010 under Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws, sparking widespread outrage from national and international human rights groups. She was released from prison in November 2018 after being acquitted by the Supreme Court of blasphemy charges on October 31. Her acquittal triggered widespread protests by religious hardliners in the country where blasphemy is a sensitive issue with 97 per cent of Pakistan's 180 million inhabitants being Muslims. Even before Bibi's conviction was overturned, far-right Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) vowed to take to the streets if she was freed. Massive protests paralyzed the country for three days after the ruling was announced. The government allowed the protesters to file a review in the top court, which stopped Bibi from leaving the country until the verdict was announced. The apex court on January 29 rejected the appeal against the acquittal, removing the last obstacle to her freedom and possible exit from the country. International and local rights groups have been demanding reforms of the controversial blasphemy laws, which were introduced by the military dictator General Zia-ul-Haq in the 1980s. It is widely believed that such laws are often misused to settle disputes and for personal vendettas. Washington, May 8 : An 18-year-old student was killed and eight other were injured when two students opened fire inside a school in Denver city of the US state of Colorado, authorities said. The two suspects were apprehended after the shooting at the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday, said Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock. Out of the two, the adult suspect was named as 18-year-old Devon Erickson. They both are believed to be students at the school, Spurlock was cited as saying by CNN. The shooting started in the high school just before 2 p.m. The suspects walked into the school and "got deep inside the school," engaging students in two separate classrooms. One student, an 18-year-old male, was killed in the school, said Deputy Cocha Heyden, a spokeswoman for the sheriff's office. The incident rattled an area that just marked the 20th anniversary of the deadly shooting at Columbine High School, about seven miles away from the STEM school. Thirteen people were gunned by two teenagers in the Columbine attack. Holly Nicholson-Kluth, undersheriff for the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, said the Tuesday shooting started in the middle school portion of the campus and an administrator called the police after hearing shots. Spurlock said that a handgun was used in the attack and that the suspects were "not on the radar" of law enforcement. "Tragically, this community (in Colorado) and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence," the White House said in a statement. Authorities were working to obtain search warrants for the suspects' homes, officials said. Baghdad, May 8 : US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has made an unannounced visit to Iraq after abruptly cancelling a planned trip to Germany amid escalating tensions with Iran. The top US diplomat met Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abd al-Mahdi, President Barham Salih and other officials while on the ground in the Iraqi capital in a roughly four-hour visit on Tuesday, according to the pool travelling with him. Pompeo described his meetings as "productive" and said he spoke to the officials "about the importance of Iraq ensuring that it's able to adequately protect Americans in their country", CNN reported on Wednesday. "They both provided assurances that they understood that was their responsibility," he said. Pompeo's visit came days after a US aircraft carrier was deployed to the Middle East region, which officials said was in response to threats to American forces and its allies from Iran. Speaking to the press pool following his visit, Pompeo reiterated that it was the US' understanding that "these were attacks that were imminent, these were attacks that were going to happen fairly soon, we've learned about them and we're taking every action to deter them". He said that the US "wanted to let them (Iraqis) know about the increased threat stream that we had seen and give them a little bit more background on that so they could ensure that they were doing all they could to provide protection for our team. "They understood too it's important for their country. We don't want anyone interfering in their country, certainly not by attacking another nation inside of Iraq and there was complete agreement." Before his arrival in Baghdad, Pompeo declined to go into details when asked to give details on the "tipping point" for his abrupt change of travel plans. He said he had informed President Donald Trump of his travel schedule on Monday night and that the latter had asked him to pass along a number of messages. The top US official said that he and officials discussed how to defeat the remaining pockets of the Islamic State in the country and foreign terrorist fighters being held in Iraqi detention camps. Although Pompeo indicated prior to his stop that he would discuss "big energy deals that can disconnect (Iraq) from Iranian energy," he said afterwards that although they spoke about energy infrastructure, they "didn't spend much time talking about sanctions issues". New Delhi, May 8 : The creator of the widely-familiar fictional character Hannibal Lecter, which featured in the Oscar-winning "Silence of the Lambs", has penned another thriller book "Cari Mora" with a female protagonist which is set to hit the stores next week. This will be the sixth book of American author Thomas Harris, and will be a non-Lecter one after his first-ever book "Black Sunday" (1975). His other four books revolved around Lecter, who is described as the "great fictional monster of our time" by author Stephen King. Adapted into movies and television shows, they essayed the character of a psycho-villain who murders and eats humans. Titled "Cari Mora", his sixth novel will be Harris's standalone thriller on the monsters that lurk in the "crevices between male desire and female survival". Image Source: IANS News The book's blurb tells us that "25 million dollars in cartel gold lies hidden beneath a mansion on the Miami beach waterfront. Ruthless men have tracked it for years. Leading the pack is Hans-peter Schneider. driven by unspeakable appetites, he makes a living fleshing out the violent fantasies of other, richer men". It adds: "Cari Mora, caretaker of the house, has escaped from the violence in her native country. She stays in Miami on a wobbly temporary protected status, subject to the iron whim of the immigration authorities. She works at many jobs to survive. "Beautiful, marked by war, Cari catches the eye of Hans-peter as he closes in on the treasure. But Cari Mora has surprising skills and her will to survive has been tested before." The story of evil and greed will be published by one of Penguin Books' imprint William Heinemann. It will hit the stores on May 16. Leh, May 8 : Journalists in Jammu and Kashmir's Leh district have accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of trying to bribe them. Rinchen Angmo, a local journalist, said envelopes were distributed among the mediapersons of Leh Press Club at a hotel here in the Ladakh region where state BJP chief Ravinder Raina addressed a press conference on May 2. "We were told not to open the envelopes in the hall and that made me suspicious. After I opened the envelope, I was shocked to find Rs 500 bills inside," Angmo said. Angmo said when she tried to return the envelope, the BJP leader refused to take it back. She said the envelopes were distributed by BJP leader Vikram Randhawa in the presence of Raina. Angmo said a complaint was lodged in this regard with the district election officer (DEO) and the police. Leh DEO Avny Lavasa told reporters that the complaint has been sent to police who have approached the court for directions to file an FIR based on the complaint. The allegations by the journalists was supported by a video clip that has gone viral. It shows envelopes being distributed among the journalists at Hotel Singge Palace here. The BJP has strongly denied the allegation saying that the party has decided to file a defamation suit against the journalists. "We will not tolerate such allegations. We will file a defamation suit against the press club in the high court if it fails to tender a public apology," Raina said. Another BJP leader said the party was giving invitation letters to local journalists to cover the poll rally of Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The Ladakh parliamentary constituency went to the polls on May 6. The contest was four-cornered between Jamyang Tsering Namgyal of the BJP, Rigzin Spalbar (Congress) and two Independents Haji Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Hussain. Islamabad, May 8 : Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, sentenced to seven years in prison in a corruption case, has returned to jail after being out on bail for six weeks owing to illness. The Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) leader left his Jati Umra residence in Lahore for the Kot Lakhpat jail in a procession of hundreds of PML-N workers led by his daughter Maryam Nawaz around 8.30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dawn online reported. He was scheduled to reach the jail by sunset, but eventually arrived past midnight after obtaining a special permit to enter the prison later than expected. Sharif's convoy was surrounded by people chanting slogans and throwing flower petals onto the car in which he and his daughter were travelling. "Nawaz Sharif came along with a rally to the jail and he reached the jail premises at around 12.20 a.m," an official at the Kot Lakhpat prison, Ahsan Ullah, told Efe news. "The jail authorities had gone to his residence in the evening to take him under custody but they refused," Ullah said. Sharif later thanked his supporters for accompanying him to jail at midnight, saying: "I do not have words to thank you for the passionate way in which you welcomed me." He said that their prayers would release him from the "dark prison cell", in a video shared by his daughter on Twitter. The Supreme Court on March 26 granted Sharif six weeks bail for medical reasons after he was sentenced in December 2018 to seven years in prison in the Al Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference. He was jailed for failing to explain the ownership of the steel factory in the name of one of his children. The case was filed in the wake of the apex court's July 28, 2017 order in the Panama Papers case. In July 2018, Sharif was sentenced to 10 years in prison in another case of corruption related to a four-storey luxury property in London while his daughter was given seven years. The three-time Premier was disqualified from holding office in 2017 for not revealing remuneration he received from a company owned by a son, an irregularity revealed after the publication of the Panama Papers. Bhopal, May 8 : Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh on Wednesday said that no one has the copyright on saffron after the sadhus, who took out a roadshow here in support of Singh, were seen holding saffron flags along with the Congress' flags. A group of sadhus, who came here from across the country, extended their support to Singh who is contesting from this Lok Sabha constituency. Namdeo Das Tyagi alias Computer Baba was leading the group. Singh also participated in the roadshow that started from Old Bhopal and covered Peer Gate and Sankari lanes. On Tuesday, a group of sadhus performed 'hatha yoga' and did 'havan' to ensure Singh wins the election. The former Chief Minister is contesting against Bharatiya Janata Party's Pragya Thakur. The BJP has been winning the Bhopal parliamentary seat since 1984, while the Congress has won six out the 16 elections held here so far. Bhopal will vote on May 12. Islamabad, May 8 : Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia over alleged ceasefire violations by Indian forces across the Line of Control (LoC) which it said killed three civilians. Mohammad Faisal, Director General at the South Asian desk of the Foreign Office, said that apart from the deaths, two civilians were also injured on May 2 and 5 along the LoC. "On May 2, 15-year old boy Tahir Hafeez was martyred, while his nine-year-old sister Tahira sustained serious injuries in the Rakhchikri Sector along the LoC," said a statement by the Foreign Office. "Three days later on May 5, two innocent civilians, including a woman Nasreen Bibi and 12-year old Muhammad Zahid were martyred, while a woman Sonia Bibi sustained injuries." It said that "the ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation". Faisal urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 ceasefire arrangement and investigate the incidents of truce violations, the statement added. He said the Indian side should permit the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan to play its mandated role as per the UN Security Council resolutions. Dehradun, May 8 : Uttarakhand Congress leader Anupam Sharma, who was arrested along with three policemen in an alleged case of robbery last month, has been granted bail by a court here, police said on Wednesday. A designated Dehradun court on Tuesday granted bail to Sharma even as the police vehemently opposed the bail application stating that the case was at a delicate stage of investigation. Sharma, who is also facing the spectre of disciplinary action by the Congress, had told police officials investigating the case that he was falsely implicated and was innocent. Sharma, who is the state party General Secretary and also a member of the All India Committee Congress (AICC), was arrested along with the three policemen on April 16 after they allegedly hatched a conspiracy and robbed a bag containing Rs 1 crore for election purposes. State Congress President Pritam Singh had stated that the AICC was the competent authority to take action against Sharma. Singh did not give any timeframe for the action. Sharma, Sub-Inspector Dinesh Negi, Constable Manoj Adhikari and police driver Himanshu Upadhyay were arrested and sent to jail on different charges including robbing property dealer Anurodh Panwar who was carrying the "black bag" said to be containing Rs 1 crore on April 4. Panwar had initially told investigators that the money was meant for the April 11 election held in Uttarakhand. Preliminary investigations had revealed that Panwar, who was carrying the money in a car, was stopped by a group of policemen who were in another police vehicle on the night of April 4. Under the pretext of searching for black money being used for election purposes, the three policemen seized the bag from Panwar. After the seizure, the policemen allegedly threatened Panwar and also asked him to leave immediately. After two or three days, Panwar started inquires about the money and visited different police stations and also the Income Tax department, thinking the money had been deposited by the policemen. But after getting no information, he lodged an FIR and narrated the entire matter to top police officials. Sensing the gravity of the case, Director General (Law and Order) Ashok Kumar handed over the investigation to a Special Task Force (STF). After a probe, Sharma and the three policemen were arrested on April 16. All three police officials were also placed under suspension. The vehicle used in the crime has also been seized. "We have started proceedings to dismiss the three policemen from service," said Kumar. The accused policemen are also planning to seek bail and move a Dehradun court shortly. Ranchi, May 8 Ians) : BJP President Amit Shah said on Wednesday that Article 370 of the Constitution would be removed if Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to power after the Lok Sabha elections. Article 370 grants autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits the Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state. "I assure you that Article 370 will be removed from Jammu and Kashmir if Narendra Modi returns to power. Jammu and Kashmir will remain a part of India till the workers of the BJP are alive," Shah said while addressing an election rally in Jamshedpur. Shah on Wednesday campaigned in support of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates in Dhanbad and Jamshedpur. "After 70 years we have got a Prime Minister who thinks about the country, not any family. During the UPA regime, anyone used to attack our jawans. The 'Mauni Baba' (Manmohan Singh) used to maintain silence over such attacks. "But after 40 CRPF jawans were killed in Pulwama, the Modi government conducted air strike and killed the terrorists. India became the third country after the US and Israel to target terrorists in another country," said Shah. He further said that the Balakot air strike brought doom to two places -- in Pakistan and at the office of Rahul Gandhi. "Rahul 'baba' and his guru Sam Pitroda favour dialogue instead of action if some youth attack the country. But the Modi government will always target the terrorists," Shah said. Kurukshetra/Fatehabad : , May 8 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused the Congress of coining the term "Hindu terror" after the 2007 Samjhauta Express blast and keeping the "innocent in jail". Raking up the issue of 1984 Sikh riots, he said the Congress has made one of the accused Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Addressing a massive rally in Haryana's historical town Kurukshetra, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader said after the Samjhauta Express blast near Panipat, the Congress put innocent people behind bars for years to cover up the falsehood of Hindu terrorism. "But we have busted their conspiracy. I do not let the Congress and their associates do what they wish to." Modi said the Congress demanded Nobel Prize for Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's gesture to release "our brave son". "When India entered Pakistan and killed the terrorists, one of our brave sons was captured by Pakistan, but they had to release him within 48 hours. They came to see him off at Wagah border. At that time, the Congress and their courtiers tried to demand a Nobel Prize for Imran Khan's gesture," he said. Slamming the opposition party for promoting "dynasty politics", Modi said: "The Congress is only involved in the thoughts of one family, hence they never showed seriousness in safeguarding India's safety and interests." "Since Independence, water which rightfully belonged to Indian farmers was being diverted to Pakistan and the Congress did not utter a word on it. However, the 'chowkidar' (watchman) will now ensure that every drop reaches our farmers," he said amidst loud cheers from the crowd. He said he constantly stopped the Congress' corruption and that is why they abuse him "under the guise of love". "Congress leaders have called me names repeatedly and this is how they shower their love on me," said the Prime Minister, who believes that the BJP's good governance agenda will defeat "negativity of the Congress". Praising Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who was also sharing the dais in Kurukshetra, Modi said the state has witnessed major changes in the past five years. "From Panipat, I started a campaign of 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'. Haryana has taken great care of their daughters in these five years." Earlier addressing a rally in Haryana's Fatehabad dominated by Sikhs and Punjabis, the Prime Minister said: "This shameless Congress is awarding those who were a part of the crime." "By making a person, who is said to be involved in 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, the Congress has proved that it doesn't care about your sentiments." New Delhi, May 8 : The Delhi High Court on Wednesday asked the city government to consider, within a week, former Haryana Chief Minister O.P. Chautala's plea seeking parole. Justice A.K. Chawla asked the government to communicate its decision to him immediately thereafter. The court was hearing Chautala's plea seeking parole for a period of three months as his wife is critically ill and admitted in a hospital. Chautala's counsel N. Hariharan and lawyer Amit Sahni told the court that as per the Parole and Furlough Guidelines, of the Delhi Prison Rules, a convict is entitled to avail parole twice a year for eight weeks and as Chautala has not availed parole for more than one year, he is entitled to be released on parole. Chautala and his elder son Ajay were convicted in the JBT (junior basic teacher) recruitment scam in January 2013 by a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court here and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Pol O Conghaile with Tracey Coughlan and Paul Keeley, Failte Ireland Taste the Island a celebration of Irelands food and drink We are creating some of the most exciting food and drink stories ever experienced on this Island and our ambition is to bring Irelands food story to the world. Over a hundred and fifty businesses and individuals from Dublin today attended Failte Irelands Taste the Island workshop in Croke Park. This is part of a series of workshops taking place across Ireland over the next number of weeks to develop a strong programme of food and drink experiences that can be included in the Taste the Island initiative. The workshops have been organised for the industry to learn more and provide them with the opportunity to shape the development of a programme with top travel writer Pol O Conghaile as keynote speaker. Failte Ireland have produced a number of promotional videos for the workshop and can be viewed HERE. Globally, Ireland is known as a nation with a vibrant culture with green fields and pristine waters together with a mild wet climate which gives us bountiful, sustainable and high-quality food produce. To enhance this reputation and to secure a greater reputation for Ireland in 2020 and beyond, a new all-island initiative Taste the Island a celebration of Irelands food and drink has been developed by Failte Ireland, in collaboration with Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland and a range of stakeholders. The new initiative, Taste the Island, will showcase Irelands world-class food and drink culture across the island of Ireland from September to November by providing visitors with access to authentic food and drink experiences, high quality local ingredients and world class Irish food and drink produce. In 2018 food and drink consumption accounted for around 2.6bn, or 35% of visitor spend and this expensive programme will seek to create an awareness and renewed appreciation at home and abroad of the strength and richness of Irelands food culture today. Commenting at the Dublin workshop Tracey Coughlan, Failte Irelands Food Tourism - Strategy and Programmes Manager, commented: The range and quality of food and drink experiences that we met in Dublin today are really world class and have the potential to drive a lot more tourists to this area. We know that there is scope for growth around food and drink for tourists and aligned with our world-famous seascapes and landscapes, we have an incredibly strong offering to motivate tourists to visit here. Taste the Island is designed to showcase Irelands fantastic food and drink across September, October and November and I look forward to seeing some really strong ideas coming out of todays workshop. Whats really important now is that people submit their proposals outlining what they are going to do for Taste the Island for whats shaping up to be chock full season of food festivals and events all showcasing our world class produce. Pol O Conghaile, travel writer, commented: "Ireland is renowned for its landscapes and seascapes, its now time for us to add our incredible indigenous food and drinks industry to this mix to make Ireland an unparalleled experience for any visitor." To kickstart the new and exciting initiative, Failte Ireland have invited businesses and individuals interested in providing tourists with a food or drink experience to attend workshops in their local area. Todays workshop which takes place in Croke Park in Dublin is the second of eighteen workshops for the industry to learn more and provide them with the opportunity to shape the development of a programme of events and experiences for 2019. Ms Coughlan continued: This initiative supports Failte Irelands strategic imperative to address seasonality and grow revenue by driving increasing bed nights outside of the summer season while also driving visitors to explore lesser-known locations across the country and will, in the long term, enhance Ireland, and indeed Donegals international food and drink reputation before they get here. A new Toolkit guide (website www.failteireland.ie/tastetheisland) on how the industry can deliver and maximise the opportunities in food and drink tourism, including a step by step guide for their business built around these 5 pillars: Taste pubs, restaurants, cafes, hotels- everywhere you can taste out fantastic food and drink Meet the maker our passionate and innovative food producers Make it yourself our wonderful interactive food experiences, cookery schools and educational facilities Trail/Networks over 30 trails or clusters of businesses working together to enhance the visitors food and drink experience all over the country Festivals and Events We are building a programme full of festivals and events throughout the Taste the Island from September to November 2019 Jump to top Hyderabad, May 8 : The Telangana High Court on Wednesday adjourned, to May 15, the hearing in the case relating to goof-ups by the Board of Intermediate Education (BIE) in the results of the Intermediate exams. The court adjourned the hearing after the board informed it that it needed another week to declare results of re-counting and re-verification of answer sheets of over three lakh students who failed to obtain pass marks. The BIE said that the process of re-verification was still on and it would provide all details to the court in a week. The High Court was hearing a petition by Balala Hakkula Sangham, a NGO working for child rights. which has demanded action against the officials responsible for goof-up as it resulted in suicide by 22 students and caused pain and agony to thousands of students and parents. The petitioner also sought for impleading Globarena Technologies, a company hired by the BIE for processing the results and which is being blamed for the fiasco. About nine lakh students had appeared in the Intermediate (Class 11 and 12) examinations held in February-March. The board announced the results on April 18 but the massive bunglings triggered unrest among students. At least 22 students committed suicide, sparking massive protests by political parties and student groups. The state government announced free re-verification of answer sheets of all students who failed to obtain pass marks. A three-member committee formed by the government faulted both the BIE and Globarena Technologies for the fiasco. New Delhi, May 8 : Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu will deliver keynote address at Vietnam's Tam Chuc Pagoda during his four-day visit to the country, an official statement said on Wednesday. During his visit starting Thursday, Naidu will have meetings with Vietnam's Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and National Assembly Chairperson Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan. He will also meet the Indian community and Vietnamese beneficiaries of the Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp organized in Vietnam under the 'India for Humanity' initiative launched to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. "India-Vietnam relations have been built on a firm foundation of close cultural, historical and civilisational links and are marked by mutual trust and understanding as well as strong cooperation in regional and international fora," the statement said. "During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Vietnam in September 2016, the relationship between the two countries was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership." Naidu's visit to Vietnam follows a series of high-level exchanges that have taken place in 2018, including visits by Vietnam's Prime Minister and President in January and March 2018, respectively and the state visit of President Ram Nath Kovind in November 2018. "These exchanges have resulted in robust cooperation in several areas, have expanded defence and security ties, forged new economic and commercial linkages and deepened people-to-people engagement. The two sides share a common desire to promote peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region," the statement said. Pune, May 8 : At least 40 persons, reportedly members of a cow vigilante group, have been booked in connection with an assault on Hindutva leader and Koregaon-Bhima riots case accused Milind Ekbote, police said here on Thursday. Ekbote lodged a complaint with the Saswad police about the attack on him in Zendewadi village around 10.30 p.m. on Tuesday. In his complaint, he said he was beaten up by a large group of around 50 persons near Saswad when he was attending a programme to commemorate the death anniversary of Sadguru Sitaram Maharaj that evening. However, the local police present on the venue immediately intervened and prevented the situation from escalating. The accused in the assault are reported to be "gau-rakshaks" (cow vigilantes) and the motive is said to be Ekbote's allegations of corruption against some of them, including his former associate, Pandit Modak. Though a few of the assailants have been identified, police have yet to make any arrests, an official said. Ekbote, who is president of the right-wing Samasta Hindu Aghadi, is an accused in the January 1, 2018 Koregaon-Bhima caste riots for allegedly inciting violence, atrocities against Dalits and other charges. The caste riots left one youth dead and 30 others including 10 policemen injured during the 200th anniversary of the Koregaon-Bhima war between a small British force comprising mostly Dalits which vanquished the huge army of the Peshwa Bajirao II on January 1, 1818. KABUL, May 8, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Afghan security personnel stand guard near the explosion site in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 8, 2019. At least one assailant was killed and nine people were injured after a Taliban suicide car bomb explosion rock Image Source: IANS News KABUL, May 8, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Smoke rises near the explosion site in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 8, 2019. At least one assailant was killed and nine people were injured after a Taliban suicide car bomb explosion rocked outside an aid agency i Image Source: IANS News KABUL, May 8, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Security personnel patrol the street after a big explosion rocked Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 8, 2019. Several people were either killed or injured after a big explosion and ensuing gunfire rocked an aid agency i Image Source: IANS News KABUL, May 8, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Security personnel stand guard on the street after a big explosion rocked Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 8, 2019. Several people were either killed or injured after a big explosion and ensuing gunfire rocked an aid Image Source: IANS News KABUL, May 8, 2019 (Xinhua) -- Security personnel stand guard on the street after a big explosion rocked Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, May 8, 2019. Several people were either killed or injured after a big explosion and ensuing gunfire rocked an aid Image Source: IANS News Kabul, May 8 : A group of Taliban fighters on Wednesday attacked an international aid group in the centre of Afghanistan's capital, injuring at least nine people, officials said. The attack started in the Shahr-e-Naw area of Kabul at 11.40 a.m. (local time) with an explosion outside the entrance gate of Counterpart International, an international non-profit organization which is operating in Afghanistan since 2005. It was followed by gunfight as other attackers tried to enter the building housing the aid group, said Interior Affairs Ministry spokesman Nusrat Rahimi. Public Health Ministry spokesman Wahidullah Majroh said that "so far, nine injured persons have been evacuated to hospitals from the Shahr-e-Naw blast". The targeted area also houses an office of the country's Attorney General and the Hanzala Mosque. The security forces also recovered a car bomb near the site of attack and rescued more than 150 employees of the Counterpart International, TOLO News reported. Kabul police spokesman Basir Mujahid said that special forces cleared the first floor of the building of the NGO and were still clearing remaining parts of the building. "First there was a heavy explosion and the attackers then entered the complex and took positions inside amid sporadic gunfire", he added. The blast also damaged several buildings and cars in the business district. All roads leading to the area were blocked and authorities called in special forces for reinforcement. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack against the NGO, which, he said, was "created by USAID and is involved in various destructive activities". A Taliban mouthpiece claimed that Counterpart carried out "a dangerous programme called Angel to promote relations between men and women", Efe news reported. The militant group's said the group trained workers in the Afghan administration to promote "anti-Islamic ideology and Western culture". Counterpart is headquartered in the US city of Arlington, Virginia. Jammu, May 8 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday denied the allegations levelled by journalists of Leh Press Club that the party had tried to bribe them. Addressing a press conference here, Vikram Randhawa, the BJP leader who has been accused of distributing envelopes containing cash to journalists at a hotel in Leh on May 2, said, "If they (journalists) had discovered cash in the envelopes distributed among them, why did they stay back for the lavish lunch at the hotel which cost the BJP Rs 11,000." The BJP leader further said, "All the allegations levelled by the journalists in Leh are baseless and misleading. They were supported by the Congress and other anti-BJP elements in Kashmir to malign the image of the BKP. "The CCTV footage being circulated on social media shows invitation envelopes being given to the reporters for covering Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's visit to Leh on May 4. But it was shown as if money was being given to them." Randhawa added that some of the journalists returned the envelopes, saying they did not need a separate invitation as they already intended to cover the event. Meanwhile, reacting to the allegations levelled by the journalists, former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah demanded criminal proceedings against the BJP leaders. Posting the two-page letter sent by the journalists to the District Election Officer (DEO) on his Twitter handle, Abdullah said, "In light of the CCTV footage purported to show BJP leaders attempting to bribe journalists in Leh, I'm retweeting my original tweet with the letter of complaint by the Press Club of Leh. Action must follow." Earlier on Wednesday, Rinchen Angmo, a journalist in Leh, said that envelopes were distributed among mediapersons belonging to the Leh Press Club at a hotel where state BJP chief Ravinder Raina addressed a press conference on May 2. "We were told not to open the envelopes in the hall and that made me suspicious. After I opened the envelope, I was shocked to find Rs 500 bills inside," Angmo said. She added that the envelopes were distributed by BJP leader Vikram Randhawa in the presence of Raina. When she tried to return the envelope, the BJP leader refused to take it back, Angmo said. She said a complaint has been lodged in this regard with the DEO and the police. Leh DEO Avny Lavasa told reporters that the complaint has been sent to the police who have approached the court for directions to file an FIR based on the complaint. The allegations by the journalists were supported by a video clip that has gone viral. It shows envelopes being distributed among the journalists at Hotel Singge Palace in Leh. Denying the allegations, the BJP said it will file a defamation suit against the journalists. "We will not tolerate such allegations. We will file a defamation suit against Leh Press Club in the high court if it fails to tender a public apology," Raina said. The Ladakh parliamentary constituency went to the polls on May 6. It saw a a four-cornered contest between Jamyang Tsering Namgyal of the BJP, Congress' Rigzin Spalbar and two Independents, Haji Asgar Ali Karbalai and Sajjad Hussain. Gurugram, May 8 : Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh targeted the Congress as he addressed a poll rally in support of BJP candidate Rao Inderjeet Singh here on Wednesday. The minister targeted the opposition Congress and its leaders for allegedly trying to weaken laws on sedition at the rally in the Rajput-dominated village of Bhondsi in Gurugram district with the election campaign in Haryana scheduled to end on Friday. "If BJP comes to power, we will make strong sedition laws to strengthen our country. In the last five years, the BJP government has cornered anti-national elements," Singh said. He also pointed to some of the NDA government's schemes such as the 13 crore LPG connections to the poor, improved road networks, the prime minister's housing scheme, besides surgical strikes against Pakistan-based terrorists. Singh slammed the opposition for asking for proof from the Modi government over the surgical strikes. However, the villagers gave a lukewarm response to the minister's speech. Many said that the economic condition of farmers in Bhondsi and Sohna is good but they want jobs for the youth which has not happened in the last five years. "We may support BJP candidate on the basis of caste but the schemes Rajnath Singh was mentioning in the rally have no meaning. Majority of the villagers in this region have sound financial condition and we do not require free LPG cylinders or low budget housing schemes, we want government jobs for our youth," said Satbir Raghav, a native of Bhondsi village. Srinagar, May 8 : Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday reviewed security in the state and expressed concern over the killings of political workers by militants. An official statement said: "Governor Satya Pal Malik undertook a detailed review of the security management-related issues at a high-level meeting at the Raj Bhavan here today (Wednesday) and was given a sector-wise assessment of the prevailing security situation in the state. "The meeting was attended by K. Vijay Kumar, Advisor to Governor; B.V.R. Subrahmanyam, Chief Secretary; Dilbag Singh, state police chief; Umang Narula, Principal Secretary to Governor; Shaleen Kabra, Principal Secretary, Home Department; Muneer Ahmed Khan, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP - Security); and S.P. Pani, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir zone. "Expressing concern over the killings of political functionaries belonging to various political parties in the state in last few months, the Governor stressed the need for ensuring safety of protected persons and advised security agencies to give due consideration to the genuine apprehensions of political activists working at the grass-root level." The Governor reiterated the need to constantly maintain a close watch on the ground situation and underlined the importance of sustained efforts to bring peace and harmony in the society for the overall benefit of people, the statement said. "On the directions of the Governor, the Home Department has ordered that Muneer Ahmad Khan, ADGP, shall conduct an enquiry into all such attacks that have taken place since October 2018. "This is with a view to ensuring that all possible measures, general as well as specific, are taken for security of political workers to enable them to continue their political activities, particularly in view of the terrorist attacks on political workers in the recent past." According to the statement, the ADGP shall submit his report, covering all the relevant aspects, along with appropriate recommendations, within 15 days. "Keeping in view the threats issued by militant organisations during the elections to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and Panchayats and the heightened risk faced by elected Sarpanches, Municipal Councillors and Mayors/ Presidents, it was decided that in case any of them requires safe accommodation, they would be provided a secure room for their stay either at the state or district level." This will come into effect immediately and the Divisional Commissioners and IGs will operationalise this after contacting the Sarpanches and ULB members. The statement further read: "The Governor stated that leaders of different political parties and other organisations may raise their security concerns with the security headquarters of J&K Police and the due diligence of threat perception will be carried out by the Intelligence agencies before arriving at a decision on the provision of personal security to persons with perceived threat." The Governor also said that he would be inviting the leaders of different political parties to discuss their security concerns and how to address them so as to create a secure political and governance environment for one and all, it added. New Delhi, May 8 : The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to extend the deadline for the finalization of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. The court said the process must be completed on or before July 31 and the process could not be delayed even by a day. In order to meet the deadline, the court allowed State Coordinator Pratik Hajela "to mention the matter before the Registrar (Judicial) during summer vacation in case urgent hearing is required". Although the hearing of the case was brief, the NRC Coordinator focused on the major factors delaying the process. Hajela told the court that most of those who had objections regarding their names being excluded from the first draft have failed to show up to contest their claims. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked Hajela to "be brave and keep the law in mind", and complete the NRC process within the stipulated deadline. The apex court had come down heavily on both the Assam government and the Centre over delays in the process of publishing of the NRC along with the identification and deportation of foreigners from the state. Chief Justice Gogoi had criticized the Centre and the Ministry of Home Affairs' plea requesting suspension of the NRC work during the general elections. The Assam government had in 2018 published a draft NRC which excluded the names of over 40 lakh people due to some discrepancies in their documents to prove their citizenship. Although over 36 lakh people whose names were excluded from the draft NRC applied afresh for inclusion of their names, the officials engaged in the NRC updation process received over two lakh complaints against inclusion of names in the draft NRC. The officials, who have taken up the complaint cases for hearing from Monday, are now in a dilemma as the complainants are not present during the hearing. "I live in Guwahati. Somebody filed a complaint against me so I came here to appear before the NRC centre. I am a genuine Indian citizen and it is an insult to me and my family when there is a question raised against me and my family. However, it is disgusting to see that the complainant who filed the complaint against me is absent. When I asked for the address of the complainant, the NRC officials gave me a vague address," said Har Kumar Goswami, a resident of Rampur village in Sarbhog area of Barpeta district, Assam. "This clearly indicates that some people have filed complaints against people without any basis. And the NRC officials have also accepted the complaints without any verification," said Goswami, adding that innocent genuine Indian citizens are being harassed in the name of NRC updation. New Delhi, May 8 : The Registrar of Companies (Mumbai) has submitted the inspection report of the beleaguered Jet Airways' books to the Corporate Affairs Ministry which will shortly start examining the details. "Action will be based on the inspection report of Jet Airways' books," a ministry source said. The regional directorate of Mumbai initiated inspection of the books eight months after the Ministry directed it for such a probe to ascertain if there was any diversion of funds. The RoC's inspection of a company's books is akin to a preliminary fact-finding exercise which could lay the ground for further investigation. In the Jet Airways case, the RoC stepped in last August after the company deferred its first quarter FY19 results. Jet Airways is passing through a critical time but has not yet landed at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). Its share sale process, led by its lenders, is underway and neither the promoters nor lenders are willing to provide the emergency funding needed for it to remain afloat till a turnaround plan is agreed upon between shareholders and lenders. The airline's shareholders or lenders did not take it to a bankruptcy court in time. Going to NCLT would have meant a court-appointed resolution. This has led its key lender State Bank of India (SBI) taking charge of the resolution efforts under corporate rescue plan outside the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). But with the airline's operations halted, there is a growing demand to leave it to a bankruptcy tribunal now. So far no investor has shown any keenness in Jet's expression of interest (EoI) floated by SBI. Jet owes Rs 8,000 crore to the banks. London, May 8 : Coca-Cola supports research in the fields of nutrition, physical inactivity and energy balance, but a contract mechanism could allow the American soft drink giant to "quash" findings from some of the health research it funds, reveals a new study from University of Cambridge. The study, published in the Journal of Public Health Policy, identified several clauses in legal documents that give the company early sight of any findings, combined with the right to "terminate without reason" and walk away with the data and intellectual property. Taken together, these clauses could suppress "critical health information" and indeed may have done so already, according to the study's authors. The researchers examined over 87,000 documents obtained through Freedom of Information requests. "It is certainly true that the contracts we have found allow for unfavourable developments or findings to be quashed prior to publication," said lead author Sarah Steele, a policy researcher from Cambridge's Department of Politics and International Studies. The authors argued that the clauses contravene Coca-Cola's commitments to transparent and "unrestricted" support for science, which came after criticism of the opaque way some major food corporations fund health research. "Coca-Cola have declared themselves at the forefront of transparency when it comes to food and beverage giants funding health research. In fact, our study suggests that important research might never see the light of day and we would never know about it," Steele said. "We are already hearing accusations from experts in nutrition that the food industry is copying tactics from big tobacco's playbook. Corporate social responsibility has to be more than just shiny websites stating progressive policies that get ignored," Steele added. Consumption of high calorie, low nutrient food and drink is believed to be a major factor in the childhood obesity epidemic. US Right to Know, a non-profit consumer and public health research group, submitted 129 Freedom of Information requests between 2015 and 2018 relating to academics at North American institutions who received Coca-Cola funding. The research team combed through the vast tranche of resulting documents and discovered five research agreements made with four universities: Louisiana State University, University of South Carolina, University of Toronto and the University of Washington. The funded work includes "energy flux and balance" studies and research on beverage intake during exercise. Coca-Cola's own transparency website declares that scientists retain full control over their research and the company has no right to prevent publication of results. However, while contracts show Coca-Cola does not control day-to-day conduct, the company retains various rights throughout the process. These include the right to receive updates and comment on findings prior to research publication, and the power to terminate studies early without reason, the study said. South Africa: Elections get off to a positive start Election Day got underway to a very positive start at 7am today as voting stations across South Africa opened and voters arrived in high numbers to cast their votes in the National and Provincial Elections, says IEC Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo. Reports from election operations around the country showed that almost all voting stations opened on time and by 11am today, large numbers of voters had already cast their ballots, Mamabolo said during a media briefing on Wednesday at the IEC Results Operation Centre (ROC). Mamabolo assured voters that adequate supplies of all materials, including more than 60 million ballot papers, are available and every voter will be assisted to vote. He said there were some challenges reported, including staff failing to report on time for duty and materials delivered late. However, these were resolved by 9am. By 11.30am today, only 17 voting stations remained unopened due to access challenges. Fourteen of these were in the southern coast of KwaZulu-Natal. The Electoral Commission is working closely with security agencies supported by government departments to open these stations as soon as possible and when they are safe for voters and election staff, Mamabolo said. Mamabolo also expressed his condolences to the family of an elderly voter who died at a voting station in Elandspoort, Tshwane, early today. Removing ink mark constitutes electoral fraud Meanwhile, responding to social media reports of voters who have attempted to remove the indelible ink mark on their thumbs, Mamabolo has warned that an attempt to remove the indelible ink mark - constitutes electoral fraud, and is punishable by up to 10 years in jail. Mamabolo was responding to social media reports of voters who have attempted to remove the ink mark. He thanked the voters who had already responded to the call to vote and appealed to all remaining voters to make their way to a voting station before they close at 9pm. SAnews.gov.za This story has been published on: 2019-05-08. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. In Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his federal Liberal government have been ensnared in a now long-running scandal arising from much publicized allegations that the government, including the Prime Minister himself, improperly attempted to interfere in the ongoing criminal case against SNC-Lavalin, an engineering company based in Quebec where Liberal support is conveniently the strongest. Aside from the political fallout for Prime Minister Trudeau and his Liberal government, the SNC-Lavalin scandal has brought attention to the typically little-discussed nuances of Canadian corporate criminal liability, an area of law arising from UK precedent and its focus on the corporate identification doctrine. The corporate identification doctrine has long been the mechanism by which courts in Canada and the UK attribute criminal responsibility to corporations for the misdeeds of individuals working for the corporations. In short, the corporate identification doctrine provides that a corporation may be convicted of a criminal offense, but only when its wrongful acts or intentions are directly attributable to, or the result of the actions of, its controlling or directing mind (or, in Canada, a senior officer). The identification doctrine contrasts with the current United States approach of respondeat superior, which renders corporations responsible for any employees actions done in the scope of their employment and at least in part for the benefit of the corporation. While the corporate identification doctrine has long-proven effective, it has recently been the subject of critiques that label the doctrine as overly hierarchical and out of touch with the more diffuse and complicated ways in which complex modern corporations make decisions. These critiques have been amplified by the attention paid to the increased power and influence of corporate citizens, and the desire to ensure that corporate conduct remains competitive but also adequately policed. It appears that such critiques are beginning to gain traction. In the UK, parliamentary committees have recently called for change, noting that smaller corporations are disproportionately prosecuted relative to larger, multi-national corporations, where decision-making power is diversified and there is uncertainty as to who represents the directing mind and will in byzantine corporate structures. The House of Commons Treasury Committee heard blunt testimony that corporate criminal liability framework is simply not fit for its purpose. Having done so, the House of Commons Treasury Committee outlined two possible alternative options to the historical corporate identification doctrine based on the recommendations of the UK Serious Fraud Office. The first option involves the creation of a new principle of attribution for corporate liability wherein a corporation would be guilty of a substantive offense if a person associated with the corporation commits an offense intending (a) to obtain or retain business for the corporation, (b) to obtain or retain a business advantage for the corporation, or (c) to otherwise benefit the corporation. The second option involves the introduction of an offense for the failure to prevent economic crime. Such an offense may arise where the corporate fails to prevent some form of economic crime such as fraud or corruption, or where the corporation fails to have adequate procedures in place for such prevention. The failure to prevent model is currently used for Englands bribery and tax evasion offenses, and there have been high-level calls for this approach to be taken in respect of all economic crime. The House Committee then called on the UK Parliament to commit to some form of regulatory change, suggesting that change may soon be coming in the UK. Despite its more expansive view of corporation criminal liability, calls for reform of the corporate liability regime have also recently emerged in the United States. Most notably, Massachusetts Senator and Democratic Presidential-hopeful Elizabeth Warren proposed the Corporate Executive Accountability Act, which broadly aligns with the aforementioned failure to prevent model. Under Senator Warrens proposal, corporate executives of companies with over $1 billion in revenue could be held criminally accountable for their negligence or failure to prevent violations of law at their companies. It remains to be seen whether Canada will similarly re-evaluate its corporate liability doctrine. The pressure to do so may be rising in light of the widespread attention paid to the SNC-Lavalin scandal and as Canadians continue to watch closely the developments in the UK and the United States. _____ Lincoln Caylor, pictured above right, is a litigator at Bennett Jones LLP in Toronto and focuses on on cross-border financial crime disputes. He is recognized by peers and clients as the top asset-recovery lawyer in Canada. He is co-founder of The International Academy of Financial Crime Litigators. Nathan Shaheen, above left, is a litigator at Bennett Jones LLP in Toronto and focuses on on cross-border financial crime disputes. New Delhi, May 8 : An epic family battle has reportedly taken its toll on a favourite summer drink - Rooh Afza. With Hamdard Pakistan jumping into the fray arguing that it can provide backup for the holy month of Ramadan where Rooh Afza appears to have vanished from kirana shops, it makes sense to track the reasons behind the halted production. The Rs 400-crore rose flavoured brand has enormous salience and is a pan-Indian favourite in the summer months. Hamdard Labs which is the company behind the brand is facing a shortage of key ingredients which, it claims, is behind the supply bottlenecks. Hamdard founder Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed's grandson Abdul Majeet, it is beleived, is in a conflict with his cousin Hammad Ahmed. This is taking its toll on the business. Speculation is rife that the 450,000 retailers who stock the popular indigenous drink are in a panic because its maximum sales take place during 'iftari' or the breaking of the fast. Production has been stopped since last November. Hundreds of tweets rolled in about the drink being an integral part of an iftar. Tweep @vrishtibeniwal posted: "Breaking the fast in the evening, iftar, has traditionally consisted of pakoras (fritters), fruit chaat (fruit salad), dates and Rooh Afza. An iftari without Rooh Afza is just not the same." While, Twitter user @Tanima wrote about the sentiments and memories attached to the drink: "I don't think I like Rooh Afza as much as I like the nostalgia attached to it. It tastes of school summer vacations and those hot afternoons when there was no AC and these simple respites were enough to keep us happy." Dismissing any rift within the family, Mansoor Ali, chief sales and marketing officer at Hamdard, according to a report by The Economic Times said, "We are facing supply constraints of certain herbal ingredients. We hope to fix the demand-supply gap within a week." But the drink with a history of uninterrupted supply disappearing from the shelves has led to major speculation which cannot be without truth. Gulf News in June 2016 had traced the geneology of the drink -- In 1908, in the bylanes of Old Delhi, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed decided to create a herbal mix that would help Delhi's masses stay cool in summer. Selecting herbs and syrups from traditional Unani medicine, he created a drink that would help counter heat strokes, bring down palpitation and prevent water loss. He named it Rooh Afza, which in Urdu literally meant something that refreshes the soul. Mirza Noor Ahmad, an artist, prepared the labels of Rooh Afza in several colours in 1910. Such colourful prints could not be processed in Delhi then. It was, therefore, printed under special arrangement by the Bolton Press of the Parsees of Bombay (Mumbai). A few decades later, Abdul Majeed decided to turn this medicament into a drink. The reception to the first batch ever made of Rooh Afza was an indicator of its future. "When they actually made Rooh Afza for the first time, the flavour and the smell were so enticing that a crowd began to gather around asking, 'Ho kya raha hai?' (what is happening?). The whole batch got sold off within an hour," Abdul Majeeb, the great grandson of Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, told Gulf News. Today, he is the CEO of Hamdard India, continuing the family's work in offering affordable medical care to the masses. The partition of India was the turning point, which went on to divide not just the family but Rooh Afza as well. "In 1947, most of the family travelled to Pakistan. Only my grandfather, Hakeem Abdul Hameed, and his two sons stayed. Even as his younger brother, Hakim Mohammad Said, went to Pakistan, my grandfather said, 'I will not be able to leave India because it is my motherland'," Abdul Majeeb said. With one brother in India and the other in Pakistan, they both continued to carry on the legacy left behind by their father on their own. While the business was already established in India, Mohammad Said faced a lot of hardships launching Rooh Afza in Pakistan. Sadia Rashid, chairperson of Hamdard Laboratories (Waqf) Pakistan and president of Hamdard Foundation Pakistan, told Gulf News: "My father (Mohammad Said) migrated to Pakistan, on January 9, 1948. The challenges of a fledgling country and a lack of means posed difficulties ... he laid the foundation of Hamdard Pakistan in two rented rooms in Karachi's old area of Arambagh, with Rs 12 (Dh0.42) worth of rented furniture." In 1953, Hamdard Laboratories Pakistan finally became lucrative, and it was converted into a waqf or a Muslim endowment entity. According to her, the brand name was "taken from the poetic book 'Masnavi Gulzar e Nasim' by Pandit Dia Shankar Nasim". Rooh Afza was a character in the book. Apart from the India and Pakistan, Hamdard also has a presence in Bangladesh. Rashid said: "My father (Mohammad Said) had opened a branch of Hamdard in former East Pakistan. After the creation of Bangladesh, instead of winding up that office and plant, he gifted that to the people of Bangladesh to be run and managed by its workers." Thiruvananthapuram, May 08 : With both the CPI(M)-led LDF and congress-led UDF trading barbs at each other over instances of alleged bogus voting surfacing in certain constituencies, the congress has upped the ante by pouncing on the alleged foul play in postal ballots of police officers. A report by the intelligence wing of the Kerala police tasked with looking into the alleged postal ballot fraud has reportedly submitted a report to the state police chief confirming the foul play. Office bearers of CPI(M)-affiliated police association have alleged to have fraudulently and illegally obtained postal ballots of police officials deployed on poll duty en masse and cast votes for the candidates of the LDF. Congress mouthpiece Veekshanam in an editorial article on Wednesday slammed the CPI(M), accusing them of perpetrating massive fraud in postal voting. The complaints of CPI(M) collecting postal ballots en masse of police officials who were on poll duty and casting votes in favor of LDF candidates comes even as the party is under a cloud over several charges of poll fraud, including manipulation of voters list by removing the names of known UDF supporters, the congress mouthpiece charges. The postal ballots were collected with the connivance of senior police officers under the auspices of the police association, the editorial says. Even though the chief minister and the state police chief initially refuted reports of the postal ballot fraud, the probe report by the intelligence chief has confirmed the allegation. The fraud was committed mainly in Kannur, Kasargod, Vadakara, Attingal, Alathur, and Kollam constituencies, which are tipped to witness a tight contest and hence even postal votes could prove to be crucial in determining the results, the article charges. The editorial alleges that the intelligence ADGPs probe report found that senior police officers owing allegiance to the CPI(M) and local CPI(M) leaders used threats to make non-partisan and anti-CPI(M) police officials to part with their postal ballots. Some police officers and police association office bearers even dangled the threat of transfers to forcibly obtain postal ballots from dissenting police officials, the article adds. A congress delegation had the other day called on chief electoral officer Teeka Ram Meena to request him to cancel postal votes of police officials deployed outside their home districts in the wake of the probe report confirming the postal-ballot fraud. DGP Loknath Behra has handed over the intelligence ADGPs report on the foul play in postal votes to Teeka Ram Meena. Lucknow, May 8 : BSP national president Mayawati on Wednesday accused the BJP of ignoring political decorum and casting aspersion on her relationship with her political ally, the Samajwadi party. Mayawati, while addressing a rally in Azamgarh from where the SP president Akhilesh Yadav is a candidate, said that their relationship was of the marginalized people which aimed at bringing about a social change. Turning the tables on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent attempts to drive a wedge between her and her alliance partners, Mayawati said that the alliance will not break until it had ousted Prime Minister Modi and UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath. Mayawati urged the people of Azamgarh to ensure historic victory for Akhilesh Yadav and asked her voters to consider her a candidate on the seat. She also hit out at the BJP's divisive policy by their fielding another Yadav, Bhojpuri star Nirahua, against Akhilesh Yadav. She described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a fake OBC and said that the people of Purvanchal belonged to the most marginalized region but they should not fall into his trap by false claims because "achche din" are over. Mayawati also slammed the Congress in the same breath and said that both the national parties were two sides of the same coin and were against reservation for the Dalits and OBC as enshrined in the Constitution. Akhilesh Yadav, while addressing the rally, claimed the alliance had received tremendous support in all the five phases where polling has taken place till now. He asked the voters to take away the 'chowki' of the "chowkidar" and appealed to people to rid the country of the "Baba CM" describing him as "thokedar" who openly asks the police to knock down people. Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Ajit Singh said the crestfallen face and abusive language of the Prime Minister was indication enough that he fears that his good days are over. The elections in Azamgarh will be held in the sixth phase on May 12. New Delhi, May 8 : The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to look into the factors leading to the Election Commission clearing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah of charges of allegedly violating the Model Code of Conduct in their speeches during the ongoing Lok Sabha poll campaign. Dismissing the writ petition filed by Congress MP Sushmita Dev against Modi and Shah for breaching the code of conduct, a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said: "The Election Commission has rightly or wrongly passed the orders on complaints... Go and challenge it, if you are still aggrieved." The court said that Dev initially moved the court alleging inaction by the poll body on the complaints against Modi and Shah. Later, when the EC passed its order, her plea termed these "non-speaking and unreasoned". Observing that it cannot see a way to go through the poll body's orders with any specific challenge to them, the court termed her plea infructuous. Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the Election Commission, contended that the panel has already passed the orders, and complainant, Congress spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala, has informed of them. He also objected to the additional affidavit filed by Dev on Tuesday, citing an attempt by the Congress MP to expand the issue. Dev, through the additional affidavit, had tried to bring court's attention on Modi's remark against former PM Rajiv Gandhi as "Bhrashtachari number 1". As senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Dev, told the court that the poll body had shied away from taking any action, and as a consequence, non-speaking orders were passed on Congress complaints, the court told him that these orders can be challenged separately. Singhvi also mentioned that the additional affidavit was filed following court orders, and the response of the poll body on it indicates the delay on passing a decision on the complaint. The court then said: "File independent Article 32 (writ) petitions. There are some norms we follow." It told the petitioner that it can challenge the merits of the poll body order by filing a fresh plea. In the additional affidavit filed before the court, Dev said that by making extremely derogatory comments on Rajiv Gandhi, Prime Minister Modi has "committed an act unbecoming of the high office he holds; made unprecedented obscene/ derogatory remarks in a speech on May 6 by referring to present Congress President Rahul Gandhi's late father and former Prime Minster of India Rajiv Gandhi, in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh". According to the affidavit, Modi allegedly said: "Your father may have been declared 'Mr. Clean' by his courtiers, but he died as 'Bhrashtachari No. 1'. This arrogance will destroy you. This country forgives mistakes but never betrayal." The additional affidavit came a day after the court asked her to put on record the EC order giving a clean chit to Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah. The Congress also claimed the lack of transparency in the EC's functioning, saying that dissent on record by one of the Election Commissioners has not been provided with the order. "This demonstrates a complete lack of transparency and arbitrariness in decision-making process on complaints against Modi and Amit Shah," it said in the affidavit. It had also demanded that the speeches by Modi and Shah should be declared "corrupt practices" under Section 123A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 as they "promote feeling of enmity and hatred between different classes of the citizens of India on grounds of religion". New Delhi, May 8 : The Centre on Wednesday sought an urgent hearing in the Supreme Court regarding a Madras High Court decision curbing the Puducherry Lt Governor's powers and restraining Kiran Bedi from meddling in the administrative day-to-day affairs. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for Lt Governor Kiran Bedi, informed the apex court that the Centre was willing to challenge the High Court decision and sought an urgent listing of the matter. Mehta, who was appearing before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, said: "The governance has come to a standstill." The High Court in April held that the interference of the Lt Governor was equivalent to running a "parallel government". The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Tuesday struck down the Union Home Ministry's clarification order giving Bedi administrative power. Deciding on the case filed by Puducherry Congress legislator K. Lakshminarayanan against Bedi, the High Court said the Lt. Governor had no power to interfere in the day-to-day activities of the government. The court said: "Bedi does not have the power to call for files and give orders to the officials." The court said the administrative and financial powers were with the elected government and the Lt. Governor had to act as per the advice of the council of Ministers, Lakshminarayanan told IANS. He said the court said it was only the elected government that had the power. Lakshminarayanan said the court struck down the clarifications issued by the Union Home Ministry in 2017 on the powers of the Lt. Governor. The Congress government in Puducherry and Bedi have been at loggerheads for a long time. New Delhi, May 8 : Doubts about veracity of the new series of GDP launched in 2015 have resurfaced after a new National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) report showed that around 39 per cent of companies in the MCA-21 database, used for GDP calculation, could not be traced or surveyed. "Out of the 39 per cent out-of-survey units in MCA, 21 per cent were found to be out of coverage and another 12 per cent were non-traceable (which in number is nearly 4,000 units)," said the report. These companies were described as "active" companies by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. This revelation casts further shadow on the new series of GDP data, which had showed significant drop in the growth estimate for the UPA administration. The usage of MCA-21 data was started with the new series in 2015, instead of the previous data taken from the Reserve Bank of India. Several statistians and economists have raised concerns over the accuracy of the data since its inception. R. Nagaraj, a professor at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research in Mumbai said that this report vindicates the critics' stand including his on doubts over the MCA data. "This is a damaging report for the CSO," Nagaraj said. "The general criticism was that there was a large proportion of these so called active could beA non-working companies. They may not producing goods and services, although they legally exist on paper," he added. Nagaraj was among the first people to raise concerns over this. The report noted that non-response of a large number of units was a major setback for the survey. "This happened due to unit non-response, closure of the unit, unit found to be the one other than headquarter, unit out of coverage or unit non-traceable," it said. The recent figures raise fresh concerns as the older GDP series relied on a survey of companies conducted by the Reserve Bank of India for the private corporate sector, while the newer one employed the 'MCA-21' database maintained by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs that contains a list of registered companies. In the appendix of the report titled Technical Report on Services Sector Enterprises in India, NSSO said: "Many units, particularly of MCA list were not identifiable due to lack of proper or adequate postal addresses. Therefore, many notices could not be delivered." The report observed that in many cases, the selected enterprises either did not prepare their annual audit reports for 2015-16 or did not prepare balance sheets any time before.A "This resulted in delay in the progress of the survey and increase in the number of non-response cases," it said. The NSS 74th round survey was a first of its kind survey for the service sector in the country. Pronab Sen, India's former Chief Statistician, however, denied that revelation casts shadow on the GDP data, but said that it shows that "there are many more shell companies than we had thought." He suggested that the new government should take note of the concerns over veracity of statistical data in the country. "I would seriously hope that the new government would take the recent incidents seriously and give the statistical system the autonomy which is required," Sen added. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public rally at Ramlila Ground in New Delhi, on May 8, 2019. (Photo: IANS) Image Source: IANS News New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a public rally at Ramlila Ground in New Delhi, on May 8, 2019. (Photo: IANS) Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, May 8 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused then Prime Minster Rajiv Gandhi of using aircraft carrier INS Viraat and its personnel for vacations with his foreign in-laws. He raked up the issue at a rally here to counter the attack by Congress leaders who say that defence forces have been politicised by the BJP, citing remarks by BJP leaders that "Modi ki sena" had carried out airstrikes on a terror camp in Pakistan. "Who has been treating the forces as personal property? ...have you ever heard that a family goes on a warship for holiday? This has happened in our country. The 'naamdar' family used INS Viraat as personal property. They insulted it," Modi said. INS Viraat was withdrawn from its place of deployment and sent to fetch the in-laws of Rajiv Gandhi and taken to an island where nobody was there to welcome them and all arrangements for them were made by the personnel of the aircraft carrier, he alleged. The holiday continued not for one day but for 10 days during which the warship remained stationed there, Modi added. The Prime Minister then asked whether presence of "foreigners on the warship did not amount to playing with the security of the country. Or was it allowed just because he was Rajiv Gandhi?" He also raked up the issue of anti-Sikh riots in Delhi during the Congress rule at the rally held to seek support for BJP candidates for the parliament elections in Delhi. Delhi will go for polling on May 12. Kolkata, May 8 : Urging the people to remove Prime Minister Narendra Modi from power, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday described him and the Bharatiya Janata Party as the "biggest threat" to the country. "Narendra Modi and BJP are the biggest threat to the nation. Remember this if you want peace," Banerjee said while addressing a public rally in West Midnapore district's Debra. The Trinamool supremo alleged that the Modi regime did not give the due respect to Bengal and was also trying to divide people in the name of religion. "If Narendra Modi is not removed, there will be no freedom, democracy, no religion or no caste in the country as they will change the Constitution," she said. "Also, there will be no elections during this fascist government," she said. "We want leaders like Gandhiji, Netaji and Babasaheb Ambedkar and Rajendra Prasad," she added. Visakhapatnam, May 8 : A collective batting effort helped Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) post a fighting 162/8 against Delhi Capitals in the Eliminator of the Indian Premier League (IPL) here on Wednesday. Dlehi bowlers too did a good job to restrict their opponents at a modest total, thanks to Keemo Paul and Ishant Sharma, who bagged three and two wickets, respectively. Put into bat, last year's runners-up Hyderabad were off to a decent start as thier scorecard read 31 for no loss in the first three overs with opener Martin Guptill (36 off 19) hammering Trent Boult for 15 runs in the third over. However, Ishant drew the first blood in the next over, dismissing opener Wriddhiman Saha (8) who holed out to Shreyas Iyer at mid-off. Manish Pandey (30 off 36) then added 25 runs with Guptil to take their side past the 50-run mark. However, the partnership didn't last long as leggie Amit Mishra struck to send back a dangerous looking Guptill in the seventh over. Hyderabad skipper Kane Williamson and Pandey then tried to anchor the innings but their slow stand saw their side placed at 71/2 after 10 overs. The duo added 34 runs before Paul came up with the breakthrough, accounting for the wicket of Pandey. Ishant then castled Williamson, leaving Hyderabad struggling at 111/4 in 15.5 overs. Vijay Shankar and Mohammad Nabi then chipped in with valuable knocks of 25 and 20, respectively, to take Hyderabad to 147 runs before the former fell in the 19th over. Nabi and Shankar hit some lusty blows towards the end to help Hyderabad post a fighting total. Brief scores: Sunrisers Hyderabad 162/8 in 20 overs (Martin Guptill 36, Manish Pandey 30; Keemo Paul 3/32) vs Delhi Capitals Latest updates on 2019 Indian Premier League London, May 8 : A British court on Wednesday extended, till May 30, the judicial custody of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, while rejecting his fourth bail plea as it suspected that he could flee the country and "interfere" with witnesses. The Westminster Magistrates' Court ordered the Metropolitan Police to put him under its custody till the next hearing on May 30. The 48-year-old businessman, wanted in India in connection with Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case, was arrested from Holborn here on March 19. Since then, he has been fighting extradition proceedings. Nirav Modi was produced before the court via videoconferencing from Wandsworth prison in south-west London. The businessman and his uncle Mehul Choksi are being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation after the PNB alleged that they cheated it of Rs 13,500 crore with the involvement of a few bank employees. Both fled India before the details of the fraud emerged in January 2018. The ED on February 26, 2018 attached property worth Rs 147 crore of Nirav Modi and his companies in connection with the case. This is the fourth time when the businessman's bail was rejected by the court. Nirav Modi's first bail plea was rejected on the second day of his arrest, and the other two pleas subsequently. Judge Emma Arbuthnot on March 29 had granted the Metropolitan Police custody of Nirav Modi. She is the same judge who ordered the extradition of former Kingfisher Airlines boss Vijay Mallya in December. New Delhi, May 8 : The RBI on Wednesday withdrew its earlier circular which mandated banks and financial institutions to disclose their outstanding to IL&FS and its group companies including provisioning required as per income recognition and asset classification (IRAC) and actual provisioning made against NPAs. According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), its circular dated April 24, 2019 stands withdrawn. "In view of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)'s order dated May 2, 2019 in respect of company appeal...the instructions contained in the above mentioned circular stand withdrawn," the RBI said in a notification. On April 24, the RBI had asked banks and financial institutions to disclose their outstanding to IL&FS and its group companies. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)'s order dated February 25 said: "No financial institution will declare the accounts of 'Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Ltd' or its entities as 'NPA' without prior permission of this Appellate Tribunal." The RBI, however, has since then contested the view and said that banks should classify the accounts of IL&FS and its companies as NPAs. The central bank also asked the banks to declare the "position of provisions which are required to be made as per IRAC norms" and the "position of provisions actually held". In April, during a hearing in the NCLAT, RBI's counsel Gopal Jain said that true reflection in the books of the banks is important for fair accounting because it has early warning signals. It is the obligations of the banks to mark any loan as NPA after a default of 90 days, and they cannot be relieved from doing that, said the RBI, adding that it is a process which every bank has to follow. Beijing, May 8 : China on Wednesday said that it would hit back if the US increased tariffs from 10 per cent to 25 per cent on Chinese goods worth $200 billion. In a late night post, the Chinese Commerce Ministry said: "The escalation of trade friction is not in the interest of the people of the two countries and the people of the world." "The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the US tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures," the statement post.A China's top trade envoy will hold talks with his US counterpart Robert Lighthizer in Washington to hammer out a deal to prevent the trade war. However, an immediate solution to the crisis is highly unlikely as US President Donald Trump's surprise decision to crank up levies on Chinese goods has dealt a blow to the progress in trade talks made in the past. The two largest economies in the world have been locked in a bruising trade war since July last year after Trump slapped an additional 25 per cent tarrif on an initial $50 billion of Chinese goods. The US President followed it through with another 10 percent on an additional $200 billion in products in September. It is the levies imposed in September last year that Trump has now threatened to increase to 25 per cent from Friday. (The writer can be contacted at gaurav.s@ians.in) Kolkata, May 8 : The Election Commission plans to use satellite phones and drones to ensure security in the Junglemahal area, a Maoist stronghold, which is slated to hold the Lok Sabha polls on May 12, sources said on Monday. Election Commission sources said all booths in Jhargram Lok Sabha seat will be manned by Central forces. "Also, we plan to use satellite phones and even drones for security purposes," a source said. Additional Chief Electoral Officer Sanjay Basu said all required measures were being taken in the Junglemahal region (vast forested stretches in West Midnapore, Purulia and Bankura districts where Maoist rebels were once very active). "All required measures will be taken to ensure successful voting in Junglemahal region. Sufficient Central forces will be deployed," Basu said. About faults in EVMs and VVPATs due to rising summer temperatures, Basu said: "We have decided to increase the number of VVPATs in the sixth and seventh phase". The convoys of two prominent BJP leaders - Assam Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and party's West Bengal President Dilip Ghosh - were allegedly attacked by Trinamool activists in East Midnapore district on Tuesday, but both were unhurt. Basu said he has sought a report from the District Election Officer but he is yet to get any update. Patna, May 8 : Bihar's ruling JD-U on Wednesday said that the party will make a fresh pitch for its old demand of special category status to the state if it get 15 or more seats in the current Lok Sabha polls. Senior Janata Dal-United leader K.C. Tyagi said that his party has not forgotten or ended its old demand. "I appeal to people of Bihar to give us 15 or more seats in Lok Sabha polls. We will get special category status to the state this time," he said. The JD-U, which is a part of the NDA, is contesting 17 of the state's 40 Lok Sabha seats. Ally Bharatiya Janata Party is also contesting 17 seats, while the remaining six have been allotted to the other ally, Lok Janshakti Party. Noting that senior BJP leader Ram Madhav had rightly observed that the BJP may need support of allies to form the next government as it was likely to get lesser seats as compared to 2014, Tyagi said: "The JD-U will be happy if Narendra Modi will become PM again with the power of our numbers in the Parliament". This is first time that a JD-U leader has raised the issue of special category status to Bihar during over-month-long campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. Chief Minsiter and party chief Nitish Kumar remained silent over the demand during the dozens of election meetings he had held, despite vociferously demanding special category status for his state. However, the Narendra Modi government had repeatedly made it clear that it would not grant the state special category status, with three Union Ministers publicly ruling it out. Bhind/Murena/Gwalior : , May 8 (IANS) Responding to former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's charges of discrepancies in farm loan waiver, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday said the brother and son of Chouhan's uncle are also beneficiaries of the scheme. Addressing election rallies in Bhind, Murena and Gwalior in the state, the Congress leader attacked Chouhan, saying: "Chief Minister Kamal Nath said that Chouhan's brother and his uncle's son have also availed the loan waiver scheme." According to the state government's claims, up to Rs 2 lakh loan waiver has been availed by 21 lakh farmers in Madhya Pradesh. Referring to the waiver of farmers' loan, Gandhi told Kamal Nath: "Show me the list that you were showing on mobile phone. Whose names are there?" To this, Kamal Nath said that the list includes the names of former Chief Minister's brother Rohit Singh Chouhan and his uncle's son. Ruling out the possibility of return of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to power, Gandhi said: "Modi isn't returning. The flop show is over...the time has come. Just look at their (BJP leaders') faces, see their energy level. The glow from their faces has vanished...they are losing." Kolkata, May 8 : Richa Singh, who came fourth nationally in the ISC examination, was on Wednesday made a 'deputy commissioner' of Kolkata police for a day in appreciation of her achievement. Richa, a student of G.D. Birla Centre for Education who secured 99.25 per cent marks in the plus two exam results announced on Tuesday, "occupied" the chair of the Deputy Commissioner (South Eastern Division) of city police from 6 am to 12 noon during the day. The daughter of Rajesh Singh - additional officer-in-charge of Gariahat police station - was feted by DC (ESD) Kalyan Mukherjee, as also the OCs' of various police stations. Asked whether she had any orders for her father as she was his "boss" for the day, Richa said: "I will order him to return home early". On her future plans, Richa said she wanted to study history or sociology. Appearing for the UPSC examination was also on her mind. Richa's father seemed overwhelmed. "Can't express how happy I am. She is my 'superior' for the day. She has ordered me to return home early. I shall obey her today". New Delhi, May 8 : Indian and Turkish officials met here under the institutional mechanism of Foreign Office Consultations, an official release said on Wednesday. An External Affairs Ministry release said that Turkey's Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Sedat Onal, who is on a three-day visit to India, met Gitesh A Sarma, Secretary (West) in the Ministry, and held cordial discussions on various aspects of bilateral ties including examining opportunities for enhancing trade and investment relations. Bilateral trade at present stands at around $8.6 billion with a target of $10 billion by 2020. Other aspects such as enhanced cultural interaction, tourism, and people-to-people contacts were also discussed. The two sides reviewed current situation in their respective regions and also exchanged views on several multilateral issues. The release said that India and Turkey enjoy close, friendly and deep rooted ties dating back to several centuries and share civilizational links. Onal had earlier visited India as part of the delegation of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in May 2017. New Delhi, May 8 : Facing flak over the latest NSSO report which showed discrepancy in the MCA-21 database, the Central government on Wednesday said that the non-traceability of several companies in the database does not impact the existing GDP or GVA estimates. Doubts about veracity of the new series of GDP launched in 2015 resurfaced after a new National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) report showed that around 39 per cent of companies in the MCA-21 database, used for GDP calculation, could not be traced or surveyed. A statement by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, issued later in the evening, said: "It is emphasised that there is no impact on the existing GDP/GVA estimates for the corporate sector as due care is taken to appropriately adjust the corporate filings at the aggregate level based on the paid-up capital." The ministry also said that the NSSO survey was commissioned by it to understand the data gaps and take remedial steps while undertaking the new base revision exercise for the proposed 2017-18 series. "The results of this NSSO report will be further examined by the advisory committee before finalising the approach and methodology for the proposed 2017-18 series." In the Technical Report on Services Sector Enterprises in India, the NSSO said: "Out of the 39 per cent out-of-survey units in MCA, 21 per cent were found to be out of coverage and another 12 per cent were non-traceable (which in number is nearly 4,000 units)." These companies were described as "active" companies by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. The revelation drew flak as they cast further shadow on the new series of GDP data, which had showed significant drop in the growth estimate for the UPA. The usage of MCA-21 data was started with the new series in 2015, instead of the previous data taken from the Reserve Bank of India. Several statisticians and economists had raised concerns over the accuracy of the data since its inception. In defence of the veracity of its statistics and data, the Ministry mentioned, in its statement, that India has subscribed to the Special Data Dissemination Standards of the International Monetary Fund "which requires that macro-economic data would be disseminated within the prescribed periodicity and timeliness conforming to the data standards laid down along with information on the detailed statistical practices or metadata". New Delhi, May 9 : Senior lawyers Indira Jaising and Anand Grover on Wednesday claimed victimisation after the Supreme Court issued notice to them and their NGO, Lawyers Collective, on a plea seeking investigation and filing of a case against it for allegedly violating rules for receipt and utilization of foreign funds. In a press statement, the advocates said: "We are deeply disturbed by the turn of events." Citing the allegation of sexual harassment against Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, Jaising said that it is victimization, as she decided to pursue the cause of the former apex court employee, in her capacity as a "citizen, a senior member of the Bar and a women's right advocate, without commenting on the merits of the allegations". The former court staffer had levelled allegations of sexual harassment against CJI Gogoi. On May 6, the in-house inquiry Committee of the top court rejected these allegations. The PIL by NGO Lawyer's Voice alleged that Jaisingh, Grover and the Lawyers Collective violated the provisions of the Foreign Contributions (Regulation) Act, the Indian Penal Code, the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and the Prevention of Corruption Act and that the funds collected were misutilized for "activities against the nation". It also cited the Centre's order suspending the license of Lawyers Collective in 2016 and permanently cancelling it for alleged violation of the FCRA. A bench headed by Chief Justice Gogoi has asked Jaising and Grover, founders of Lawyers Collective, to respond to this plea. The court also issued notice to the Union Home Ministry, seeking its response. The PIL cites Jaising allegedly violated the Advocates Act by accepting funds from a foreign entity and then utilized the money for the NGO to travel abroad during her tenure as a law officer. Citing the November 27, 2016, order cancelling the FCRA registration of the NGO after it was found that it broke the rules, the petition also seeks direction to the Centre to bring on record all the evidence that supported the passing of the order. The petition also alleged despite being grave charges against the lawyers and the Lawyers Collective, the Centre did not carry out investigations. Rejecting the charges, the Lawyers Collective, in its statement, noted that it has had no foreign funding since 2016, when its FCRA registration was suspended and subsequently cancelled by the Ministry of Home Affairs on "false and illegal grounds". It has "taken up appropriate legal proceedings against the cancellation in accordance with the law". "In any event, we strongly dispute any allegation of mis-utilisation of any funds," it said. Geelong, one of the nation's strongest performing property markets, has begun its price decline, according to property valuation firm Herron Todd White. Both its houses and units have slipped into the starting to decline bracket in the May property clock, along with the north-east New South Wales city of Tamworth. The prices are down for their 2017 peak, although no apparent signs of loss taking. There was however no price growth at 403/8 Gheringhap Street Geelong which recently fetched $465,000, the same off the plan price paid in 2011 for the two bedroom apartment. It was currently tenanted to at $420.00 per week until October with the agent advising it was "well priced for this type of property considering the location and the rental return." The nearby $430,000 apartment at 701/8 Gheringhap Street Geelong sold at the lower end of its guidance. The seventh floor one bedroom unit was listed with $429,000 to $459,000 price guidance, having last sold at $380,000 in 2013. There was also little price growth at the three bedroom town house at 39 Alexandra Avenue Geelong. It sold recently at $1.05 million, having traded at $1.02 million in October 2017. Despite the start in declining prices, Herron Todd White noted there was an ongoing severe shortage of property in relative to rental demand. The demand for new houses is strong, but the volume of house sales is declining. Property Observer noted a drop in the auction clearances rates last August, from 80 percent to 50 percent. Earlier this year more than a third of Melbourne and Geelong land lots were being sold are resales. It was only late last year that CoreLogic's Cameron Kusher's research found Geelong leading the way in house and unit markets. Last December HTW noted Geelong, the second largest Victorian city outside of Melbourne, was defying the emerging downward market trend amid a tightening of lending rules favouring regional markets and first home owner grants for regional areas as the twin major buoyant factors. Bucking the decline trend with its recent $570,000 sale was the two bedroom house at 1/17 Brownbill Street, at well above the $470,000 to $510,000 price guidance. The Geelong decline extends to its house and land. "Although the Geelong market has cooled, we are still seeing construction values stacking up against comparable properties sold, however this may not be the case moving forward," HTW said in their May review. To enlarge HTW's housing property clock, click here. "There are concerns about the market slowing in Geelong, with longer days on market, increased stock levels and changes in lending policy in the wake of the royal commission into banking," HTW noted. "There are still good opportunities in the current climate." Geelong currently has a number of large englobo developments with land for sale. First home buyers are being drawn to land developments in Armstrong Creek, Torquay, Drysdale and Ocean Grove. Around 30 to 40 percent of sales within new developments are first home buyers. Developers are selling 350 sqm blocks for $430,000, with building rates in the Geelong region varying from $1,200 to $1,500 per sqm for a standard volume build, increasing to anywhere between $2,000 and $5,000 per sqm for a custom build. Herron Todd White questioned, in the current property climate, whether purchasing land in a new development is a good idea for first home buyers. "Typically, land within these locations doesnt have as high capital return due to the oversupply levels," they said. They added affordability will likely be a key factor, with the more established residential areas often having a higher entry point of value, but the rewards are greater. "Often its the established areas that tend to have a higher return on value due to the fact that a modern dwelling is constructed within a location closer to established infrastructure. Geelong units have also started to decline, joining the Central Coast and Coffs Harbour, as well as the Gold Coast. Tamworth too has seen it move from the peak of the market into a declining market. To enlarge HTW's unit property clock, click here. DyNAbind, a Dresden, Germany-based drug discovery technology startup, raised a seed funding of undisclosed amount. Backers included High-Tech Grunderfonds (HTGF), Technologiegrunderfonds Sachsen (TGFS) and existing shareholder TUDAG TU Dresden AG. The company intends to use the funds to build up a new, larger lab space and expand its team. Led by co-founder and CEO Mike Thompson, DyNAbind provides a dynamic DNA-Encoded Library technology platform that allows hundreds of millions of chemical structures to be simultaneously screened and optimized against a potential drug target protein. The company partners with pharma, biotech and academic organizations and has already publicly announced deals with groups including SoseiHeptares, Northwestern University Chicago and OMass Therapeutics. A DEL discovery kit is also offered in partnership with Merck KGaA (MilliporeSigma in the US). DyNAbind is a spin-out from the lab of Prof. Yixin Zhang at the TU Dresden. FinSMEs 08/05/2019 "Really they were a dressed up private seller platform that was purported to be something else." That's the view of REIA deputy president Hayden Groves, who told Ross Greenwood's 2GB last night that the exit from the Australian market confirmed yesterday, was good news. "It hasn't worked here," Groves said. Its Australian website had about 1400 property listings. It had 3,600 verified five star reviews. "They were really trying to take the real estate agents out of the process of real estate professional transactions, purporting the fact they were real estate agents which was curious. Groves said in actual fact they were a dressed up private seller platform, pretending to be something else. "It's great news for consumers of professional real estate services in the country because they were duped by false and misleading advertising by Purple Bricks purporting to be something they're not. "They were saying that real estate practitioners in the traditional sense were nothing more than commission collectors and not undertaking their role correctly. "They were saying they were real people and real real estate agents that they were going to be holding the hand of the consumer, seller, client in the selling process the process "But of course their model, their agents weren't incentivised to get an outcome. "Effectively these poor consumers, who were expecting something else, were left without any of the proper services and support services they needed to get the job done. Purplebricks dubbed themselves a low commission agency, having had previous success in the UK property market, they entered Australia just two years ago. The group sought to disrupt the old fashion way of paying an estate agent commission of between two and three percent of the sale price. The saving on a $900,000 sale was put at $11,300, given an all up fee of $8,800. There were around 30 agents across New South Wales who will find themselves out of work, and 30 o so in Queensland. Purplebricks sponsored House Rules last year, however a cost-cutting measure saw them hand it over to Century21 for the current series. The NSW have 240 properties for sale, having sold 1,038 in two years, buoyed by an advertising campaign for listings by the celebrity builder, Barry Du Bois. Their revised so-called 'first-class package' was priced at $4,400, which pays for the marketing, with a further $4,400 payment when the sale of the property is successful. It was pitched towards typically outer-suburban and regional listings. Its most upmarket listing was in Vaucluse, albeit a dump, which belonged to the socialite mortgage broker Lizzie Buttrose. Vic Darvey, the London-based Purplebricks Group CEO said after much consideration it had "made the difficult decision to close the Australian business." "Weve been operating here for two and half years and, unfortunately, we have been unable to make the progress in the Australian market that weve wanted, despite the tireless efforts of our employees. "We will take no further listings in Australia, but intend to engage with our customers to finalise all existing agreements. "This is not a decision we have taken lightly, but with market conditions becoming increasingly challenging, we do not believe that the prospective returns in Australia are enough to justify continued investment." Only last week UBS said the company was not likely to make money in Australia until 2022. It was forecast that Purplebricks would potentially have to close its Australian operations to save the UK mothership. AC Hotel in Times Square Installs Custom Boon Edam Revolving Door The door has a weight to it that provides a sense of grandeur as you enter the hotel, while the power assist feature makes it easy for our guests to use. Times Square in New York City is arguably one of the most popular attractions in the world, with restaurants, stores, energetic crowds and pulsing lights from towering digital billboards. Its also home to AC Hotel New York Times Square, a recently opened property thats part of the AC Hotels by Marriott brand, located on West 40th Street. The one-year-old hotel has 21 floors with 290 rooms and suites, with options including high views, floor-to-ceiling windows and full balconies. It also has more than 3,500 square feet of event space, a 24/7 fitness center, an AC Library, and Castell Rooftop Lounge on the 21st floor. The hotel, which was designed by Helpern Architects of New York City, is detailed with original artwork in the hotels shared spaces from sculptures to abstract paintings by a mix of local, national and international artists. The photography in the guestrooms is by Richard Silver, featuring NYCs iconic architecture. OTO Development, part of The Johnson Group, owns and operates AC Hotel New York Times Square. A Main Entrance with Style and Function On average, more than 1,000 people enter the hotel each day, says General Manager Ben Britton. The propertys design team sought a main entrance solution that would not only accommodate pedestrian traffic, but would also fit with the hotels soaring glass exterior and all-white entrance with its large, cantilevered awning extending over the sidewalk. The solution also needed to filter outside noise and other sensory distractions to help create an oasis of calm, a retreat from the New York City's hustle and bustle, Britton says. In addition, the entrance solution needed to coordinate with the overall hotel brand, based on providing a harmonious, modern and discerning guest experience. A Boon Edam BoonAssist manual revolving door met all of those requirements and more, including a custom-made, all-white color that matches the exterior entrance decor. The doors dimensions are built to complement the scale of the entry at 10 feet diameter and almost 14 feet tall. Due to the size of the door, we chose the manual assist option to reduce strain on the motor, explains Britton. The door has a weight to it that provides a sense of grandeur as you enter the hotel, while the power assist feature makes it easy for our guests to use. Revolving Doors Enhance the Sensory Experience The revolving door also helps ensure that hotel guests are connected with the full experience that the hotel aims to provide. We are very keen on providing a sensory experience, Britton says. The lobby exudes the AC Hotels brand signature scent. We work to ensure the lobby space is quiet and calm so that our business guests can conduct a business conversation. Considering the environment outside on the street, the revolving door helps us achieve these goals it also provides a brief transition experience for the customer as they pass through it, sort of washing the street off of you, Britton observes. Britton notes that maintenance of the Boon Edam revolving door has been seamless, with no issues to date. The hotels engineering team is fully trained on the doors operation, including its regular maintenance schedule. The hotels operations team is pleased with how the Boon Edam revolving door controls pedestrian traffic and creates an ideal transition into the peaceful lobby; the design team is happy with how the door design and special color add to the beauty of the hotel exterior. AC Hotel Times Square has gotten a lot of attention both nationally and internationally, Britton says. I believe that this type of sleek, modern design is the future. Hotel chains will update their design elements to be more in line with what our hotel has already accomplished. Boon Edam provided a great solution. For Further Information, Please Contact: Tracie Thomas, Boon Edam Vice President of Marketing T 910 814 8239 E tracie.thomas(at)boonedam(dot)com For Media Queries, Please Contact: Sara Chaput, LRG Marketing Public Relations T 845 358 1801 E schaput(at)lrgmarketing(dot)com About Royal Boon Edam With work environments becoming increasingly global and dynamic, the smart, safe entry has become the center of activity in and around many buildings. Royal Boon Edam is a global market leader in reliable entry solutions. Headquartered in the Netherlands, with 140 years of experience in engineering quality, we have gained extensive expertise in managing the transit of people through office buildings, airports, healthcare facilities, hotels and many other types of buildings. We are focused on providing an optimal, sustainable experience for our clients and their clients. By working together with you, our client, we help determine the exact requirements for the entry point in and around your building. Follow Boon Edam Inc. on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and our blog and read the latest news at http://www.boonedam.us/news. Nashville-based financial services company, Advance Financial, was recently named the winner of two Gold Stevie Awards and one Silver Stevie Award in the 17th Annual American Business Awards. The companys CEO and CXO, Tina Hodges, won the gold award for Woman of the Year in Consumer Services and gold for Fastest Growing Company of the Year for organizations up to 2,500 employees. Advance Financial also earned a silver award for Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the Year for organizations up to 2,500 employees. The Woman of the Year category recognizes achievements of women in the workplace in 2018. Under Tina Hodges leadership, 2018 proved to be an incredibly strong year for the company as it hit multiple growth milestones and elevated its tradition of giving back to the local communities it serves. The Fastest Growing Company of the Year category recognizes outstanding revenue growth in 2018 compared to 2017. The company opened 16 new stores in 2018, eclipsing 100 stores total, and in five years the companys total revenue grew from approximately $73 million to more than $300 million 226% growth landing it on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies for the seventh year in a row. The company also welcomed hundreds of new employees, growing from 800 at the end of 2017 to more than 1,150 in 2018 a meteoric 62 percent growth in just a year. The past year has been nothing short of remarkable for our company, said Hodges. We are honored to accept these awards recognizing the dedication our company has to our employees, our customers and our communities. We look forward to growing and giving back even more in 2019. The Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the Year category recognizes organizations contributions to society. Founded in Nashville, Advance Financial considers the entire state of Tennessee its home and believes in partnering with organizations throughout the state that align with its values and goals. The charitable arm of Advance Financial, the Advance Financial Foundation, contributed $561,000 in donations, grants and scholarships to organizations and students across the state in 2018. We are fully committed to each and every community we do business, says Shantrelle Johnson, VP of Corporate Citizenship for the Advance Financial Foundation. Our employees not only work here, we live here. And many of our customers are our friends and neighbors. The American Business Awards were created in 2002 to honor and generate public recognition of the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals worldwide. More than 3,800 nominations from organizations of all sizes and industries were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of categories, and more than 200 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this years Stevie Award winners. The nominations submitted to the 2019 American Business Awards were outstanding, said Michael Gallagher, president and founder of the Stevie Awards. They illustrate the continued vibrancy of innovation and high level of achievement across the American economic landscape. Details about The American Business Awards and the list of 2019 Stevie winners are available at http://www.StevieAwards.com/ABA. About Advance Financial Founded in 1996, Advance Financial is a leading fintech company based in Nashville, Tennessee. With more than 100 stores in Tennessee and online loan services in 13 states, Advance Financial provides fast lending decisions on line of credit loans and other financial services, 24/7/365. Recent recognition includes 2018 Inc. 5000 fastest-growing private companies (7 straight years); A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau; Nashvilles 4th fastest growing company (2018, Nashville Business Journal); Forbes Best Employers for New Graduates (2018); and, Indeed Top-Ranked Workplace for Compensation/Benefits (2018). For more, visit http://www.af247.com. About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in seven programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com. Sponsors of the 2019 American Business Awards include HCL America, John Hancock Financial Services, and SoftPro. "Esser Hayes Insurance Group is skilled in reviewing policies, recommending plan designs and educating employees. We welcome their excellence and wealth of knowledge to AssuredPartners, said AssuredPartners President and COO, Tom Riley AssuredPartners, Inc. is pleased to announce Esser Hayes Insurance Group, Inc. of Naperville, IL has joined AssuredPartners. The enthusiastic team of 103 employees will remain under the operational structure of Bill Hayes and Howard Weiss. The agency currently reports $18 million in annualized revenues. With nearly 80 years in the industry, our teams regional presence has established credibility and a resilient loyalty with our clientele, carriers and community. We are faithful in providing our customers meaningful market representation, attaining prioritized service and excellent rates, said Bill Hayes of Esser Hayes Insurance Group Inc. Specializing in commercial, personal and benefits insurance risk management, our team is a perfect fit for AssuredPartners. With the shared goal of exceeding client expectations, we are confident in the partnership and will strive for continued excellence. We are proud new partners of AssuredPartners, said Howard Weiss of Esser Hayes Insurance Group Inc. Under Bills leadership we are excited for continued prospects to make investments, accelerating growth in this critical market, said AssuredPartners Western Region President, Randy Larsen. Esser Hayes Insurance Group is skilled in reviewing policies, recommending plan designs and educating employees. We welcome their excellence and wealth of knowledge to AssuredPartners, said AssuredPartners President and COO, Tom Riley. For more information on Esser Hayes Insurance Group, Inc., please visit: http://www.esserhayes.com ABOUT ASSUREDPARTNERS, INC Headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida and led by Jim Henderson and Tom Riley, AssuredPartners, Inc. acquires and invests in insurance brokerage businesses (property and casualty, employee benefits, surety and MGUs) across the United States and in London. From its founding in March of 2011, AssuredPartners has grown to over $1.2 billion in annualized revenue and continues to be one of the fastest growing insurance brokerage firms in the United States with over 225 offices in 30 states and London. For more information, please contact Dean Curtis, CFO, at 407.708.0031 or dean.curtis(at)assuredpartners.com, or visit http://www.assuredpartners.com. Topic: Attorney Deal Cites 16 Reasons Why Governor Inslee Should Veto Mandatory MMR Vaccine Bill From: James Robert Deal, Attorney Contact: 425-771-1110, James(at)JamesDeal(dot)com To: All media For release: May 8, 2019 Follow links at: http://www.JamesRobertDeal.org/16-reasons-why-governor-inslee-should-veto-mandatory-vaccination-bill Lynnwood Attorney James Robert Deal releases the following information: The Washington Legislature recently passed a law which will eliminate philosophical and personal objections to the MMR vaccine, making vaccination with the MMR a precondition in most cases to attending public or private school or daycare. Governor Jay Inslee has not yet signed the bill into law. Deal offers 16 reasons why Governor Inslee should veto the new MMR vaccination bill: 1) The MMR package insert lists serious adverse reactions which the MMR has caused, including diabetes, arthritis, encephalitis, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, and death. See: http://www.immunize.org/fda. It is wrong to trade one malady for another. The National Vaccine Information Center reports that only two people in the United States have died from measles over the past ten years, while around 108 have died in reaction to the MMR. The MMR does more harm than good. 2) The number of measles deaths has dropped in Western countries. MMR supporters give the MMR credit for this reduction. However, almost all of the reduction occurred before the measles vaccine was introduced. Vaccination does not account for the impressive declines in mortality seen in the first half of the century. Vaccination reduces the number of overt cases of measles but not the number of deaths from measles. 3) The law is an overreach. The current, small epidemic is a measles epidemic, not a mumps or rubella epidemic. Eliminating informed consent is a serious matter. The law would nullify informed consent as to two diseases which are not epidemic. 4) The MMR is a tri-valent, combo vaccine. It is three in one. There are serious adverse reactions from the MMR, and because it is a combo vaccine, we cannot tell which of the three component is causing the adverse reactions. Shameless Marketing: I co-broker with other brokers on challenging transactions nationwide. Flat fee payable at closing. https://www.WashingtonAttorneyBroker.com/Helping-Brokers 5) The MMR has never been double blind tested against an inert placebo. It was approved after testing on only 800 people. 6) MMR supporters say that 95% must be vaccinated to stop measles. For several reasons it is mathematically impossible to get to 95%. Protection wears off, which is why boosters are given. In many outbreaks large percentages of those coming down with measles have been fully vaccinated. The vaccine just does not work on some. Adults are not generally re-vaccinated for measles, and so most have lost all immunity. Because it is impossible to reach the 95% level, there is no rational legal basis for mandating the MMR and depriving parents of their right of informed consent. 7) Some cannot be vaccinated because they have autoimmune disorders. However, the MMR itself can cause autoimmune disorders. One study found that a failed cellular immune response to measles vaccine is a potential cause of autoimmunity. My son should not be required to be vaccinated in order to protect those children who have an autoimmune disorder because the MMR may cause him to develop his own autoimmune disorder. 8) Measles is mostly harmless to adolescents but especially harmful to babies, to pregnant women, and to adults in general. Ironically, routine vaccination against measles has increased incidence of measles in all three groups. A boy or girl who contracts wild measles as a child is immune for life. When a girl later gets pregnant, she cannot catch measles. And she will pass her immunity into her baby. On the other hand, girls who are vaccinated as children may have lost their immunity when they later become pregnant. They can catch measles while pregnant and will have no immunity to pass on to their babies. Vaccinating against measles has shifted the population which typically contracts measles, from adolescents who handle measles relatively well, to adults and babies who do not. 9) The MMR does cause autism, as the CDC found in a 2004 study. CDC heads did not like the autism finding, so they held a garbage can party and trashed the offending evidence. In that study autism appeared mostly in black boys. CDC heads eliminated all subjects who had not presented a birth certificate, who were mostly black children. In so doing, they reversed the finding. In 2014 William Thompson, who had been present at the garbage can party, publicly disclosed the fraud. The media has almost completely ignored this story. 10) The Supreme Court, in justifying almost complete immunity for vaccine manufacturers under the Vaccine Injury Act of 1986, has referred to the CDC vaccines as unavoidably unsafe, explaining that those who take them should know they are taking a risk and are therefore accepting the risk. 11) Vaccine manufacturers are immune from all liability provided they fully disclose all known risks. The MMR package insert discloses the many harms the MMR is known to cause. However, package inserts are almost never shown to parents. In the early years of the Vaccine Injury Act, medical doctors had to obtain signatures from parents indicating informed consent. This took too much of their time, and so the requirement was waived. Disclosure is inadequate, which therefore undermines immunity from liability. 12) There was no provision and no discussion in the Vaccine Injury Act about making any vaccines mandatory. The CDC childhood vaccines are experimental. An experimental vaccine should not be mandatory. 13) MMR components are all grown in cells from aborted fetuses. The MMR contains gelatin from pig bones. It contains bovine cells and recombinant human cells. Thus, the MMR is not kosher, not halal, not nihil obstat, not vegan, and not non-GMO. Religious objections are inevitable, and the state should not be put in the position of deciding religious questions. 14) The Washington Constitution makes education the paramount duty of the state but says little about health. If we are excluding children from school who are not sick with measles, we will be violating their constitutional rights. 15) Pediatricians receive $400 per year for each fully vaccinated child, which is worth $400,000 per year in a practice with 1,000 children. This is why many pediatricians refuse to treat unvaccinated children. These undisclosed kickbacks compromise doctors and explain their unquestioning support of the CDC vaccines. 16) The CDC, FDA, elected representatives, state and county health departments, medical schools, and medical practices all receive generous funding from Big Pharma. TV networks receive enormous fees for pharmaceutical ads. All of these groups should be considered captured and not credible sources of information about vaccine safety. Once a cash flow gets going, it is hard to stop. People are easily convinced by white coats. Read online and follow links at: http://www.JamesRobertDeal.org/16-reasons-why-governor-inslee-should-veto-mandatory-vaccination-bill For links to scholarly journals which substantiate Deals claims, see: https://www.jamesrobertdeal.org/washington-should-not-mandate-ineffective-and-harmful-cdc-vaccines https://www.JamesRobertDeal.org/attorneys-viewpoint-vaccinations. Shameless Marketing: I co-broker with other brokers on challenging transactions nationwide. Flat fee payable at closing. https://www.WashingtonAttorneyBroker.com/Helping-Brokers Sincerely, James Robert Deal Real Estate Attorney & Real Estate Managing Broker James(at)JamesDeal(dot)com PO Box 2276 Lynnwood WA 98036 Law Office Line: 425-771-1110 Broker Line: 425-774-6611 KW Everett Office Line: 425-212-2007 Fax: 425-776-8081 I help brokers. Flat fee payable at closing. WashingtonAttorneyBroker.com/Helping-Brokers WashingtonAttorneyBroker.com/Seller-Financing Property search: JamesRobertDeal.com Mortgage-Modification-Attorney.com Fluoride-Class-Action.com/Safewater JamesRobertDeal.org/Smart-Meters JamesRobertDeal.org/Attorneys-Viewpoint-Vaccinations JamesRobertDeal.org/Door-To-Door-Transit Our expansion in Spring Hill gives us the opportunity to serve our community at a greater capacity. Cellular Sales, the largest independent Verizon Wireless retailer by volume, announces their expansion in Florida with a new store in Spring Hill. Over the next year, the store is expected to add new jobs within the local community. On April 13, the store located at 4150 Commercial Way welcomed its first customers. This is Cellular Sales 104th store in Florida and their second store in Spring Hill. Our expansion in Spring Hill gives us the opportunity to serve our community at a greater capacity, said Cellular Sales Regional Director Jason Crutcher. We look forward to getting to know our customers and meeting their needs. The store currently employs twelve team members with plans to add at least twelve new team members as the store continues to grow over the next year. Cellular Sales has grown significantly over the past 25 years, due to their innovative approach to customer service. It has been named to Inc. Magazines 5000 list of the fastest growing companies nine times, achieving Hall of Fame status. To ensure that new team members become an integral part of the team and are equipped with the best possible tools for success, recruits train with senior sales reps for four to six weeks, before selling on their own. Team members are encouraged to view themselves as entrepreneurs with the support of an established, successful company backing them up. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects demand for retail sales jobs to grow over the next decade and sales experience will be valuable. Cellular Sales understands the value of great training and support from a personal and professional development point of view. Cellular Sales commitment to customer service is unmatched in Florida, and throughout the country, said Cellular Sales Regional Director Cheyenne Jenkins. Our strong team of entrepreneurs here in Spring Hill looks forward to serving their community. Cellular Sales seeks to hire individuals with a passion for customer service to work at its Commercial Way store in Spring Hill. Those interested in applying for jobs at this Cellular Sales location may contact Cellular Sales Recruiter Vance Hall at (813) 394-5846 or vance.hall(at)cellularsales.com. About Cellular Sales Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., Cellular Sales was founded in 1993 and has been named to Inc. Magazines 5000 as one of the nations fastest-growing privately owned retailers for nine of the past 10 years, something only 0.5 percent of companies on that list achieve. The company currently employs 7,200 people and operates over 700 stores nationwide across 41 states. Job seekers may visit jobs.cellularsales.com. For more information on the company, visit cellularsales.com. Hawaiian Airlines has renewed its 5-year contract with SmartKargo, continuing the cloud-delivered real-time management of the carriers air cargo business. For the past 5 years, the SmartKargo Cloud solution has provided Hawaiian Air Cargo with the advanced digital tools needed to quickly transform our cargo operations--to support growth and an improved customer experience in Hawaii and abroad." --Brad Matheny, Managing Director of Cargo at Hawaiian QuantumID Technologies today announced that Hawaiian Airlines has renewed its 5-year contract with SmartKargo, continuing the cloud-delivered real-time management of the carriers air cargo business using the advanced end-to-end Software as a Service (SaaS) solution. Hawaiian was the first U.S. carrier to adopt the SmartKargo Cloud platform in 2014, with the implementation Go Live in 2Q 2015. Since then, the airline has utilized the innovative set of integrated tools that the SmartKargo SaaS solution offers to support and grow its domestic and international Cargo business, including the addition of freighter-configured ATR-72 aircraft to support a new All Cargo Overnight service within the Hawaiian Islands. The airline in 2017 also unveiled its multimillion-dollar Charles I. Elliott Maintenance and Cargo Facility, the Honolulu hub of its cargo business. Brad Matheny, Managing Director of Cargo at Hawaiian said: For the past 5 years, the SmartKargo Cloud solution has provided Hawaiian Air Cargo with the advanced digital tools needed to quickly transform our cargo operations. As a result, our team was able to further digitize our processes to support faster air freight operations, growth and an improved experience for our customers in Hawaii and abroad. We are very pleased to extend the partnership and look forward to continuing to grow and innovate. SmartKargo has allowed Hawaiian to empower customers with real-time shipment information, gain access to advanced tools such as mobile apps and integrate quickly, and seamlessly, with airline systems and a network of 3rd party providers. This was accomplished via the SaaS solution offered through the Microsoft Azure platform and the large number of APIs that SmartKargo can provide. The enhanced capabilities of the SaaS solution have also given Hawaiian access to paperless e-AWBs; ease of booking for Cargo agents and customers with single- screen data entries; powerful pricing and rate-making via simplification; real-time capacity management: user-configurable real-time Business Intelligence and reporting; and integrated Cargo Revenue accounting. In addition, streamlined participation in e-commerce growth is available to Hawaiian via the platform to operate first-mile pick-up and last-mile delivery for e-commercefacilitating B2B or B2C door-to-door operations via mobile applications and 3rd party integrations. Milind Tavshikar, Chief Executive Officer, QuantumID Technologies, SmartKargo said: On behalf of the SmartKargo team, we are grateful to have the continued support of Hawaiians Air Cargo team as well as their exemplary and forward-looking leadership. We look forward to supporting their growth and in enabling new opportunities in the marketplace as they arise. About SmartKargo The SmartKargo end-to-end platform has robust mobile applications and advanced technologies such as real-time information, business intelligence, mobile apps, and machine-learning capabilitieswhile providing quick and seamless integrations with an airlines current or future systems via APIs, for fast deployment and integration. The end-to-end technology is an extension of the SmartKargo Cloud SaaS solution that is built upon the worlds leading global cloud infrastructure, Microsoft Azure. SmartKargo Cloud provides ease-of-use and instant access to shipment information for all members of the value chain. Azure is the worlds leading cloud platform that supports our robust mobile applications. About Hawaiian Air Cargo As the first U.S. airline certified to ship cargo in 1942, Hawaiian Air Cargo is a flagship carrier of the Pacific. For more than 70 years, we have provided high quality overseas shipping and outstanding customer service. Our dedication has helped us build outstanding relationships with local and international customers, freight forwarders, carriers and many others in the industry. Our streamlined process begins the moment you request an estimate for shipping cargo. Whether youre shipping an animal, food or furniture, were committed to giving you clear and easy-to-understand estimates and guidelines for all your air shipping needs. We offer personalized service that includes fast and affordable shipping for domestic and international cargo that are tailored to your needs. About Hawaiian Airlines Hawaiian has led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for each of the past 15 years (2004-2018) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Consumer surveys by Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and TripAdvisor have placed Hawaiian among the top of all domestic airlines serving Hawaii. Now in its 90th year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawaiis biggest and longest-serving airline. Hawaiian offers non-stop service to Hawaii from more U.S. gateway cities (12) than any other airline, along with service from Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa and Tahiti. Hawaiian also provides, on average, more than 170 jet flights daily between the Hawaiian Islands, and over 260 daily flights system-wide. Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. is a subsidiary of Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. Additional information is available at HawaiianAirlines.com. Follow Hawaiians Twitter updates (@HawaiianAir), become a fan on Facebook (Hawaiian Airlines), and follow us on Instagram (hawaiianairlines). For career postings and updates, follow Hawaiians LinkedIn page. For media inquiries, please visit Hawaiian Airlines online newsroom. Creci receives award from pitch sponsor Intel [M]easuring companies social impact and attending to the credit needs of small and medium businesses are both growing fields. Creci, an early stage start-up, with headquarters in Hollywood, Florida and offices in Medellin and Bogota, was selected on April 30, 2019, as the category winner for Peer-to-Peer Lending, Alternative Funding, and SME Lending at the Innovate Finance Global Summit in London. Creci is a social impact lending platform for SMEs. It currently operates in Colombia and has plans to expand throughout the Americas, including the United States. In addition to serving the credit needs of small and medium businesses, Creci assesses how companies operations and products aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development goals, assigning companies a social impact score. Andres Idarraga, Crecis Founder and CEO noted, As the panelists from some of the worlds most important financial institutions made abundantly clear during the conference, measuring companies social impact and attending to the credit needs of small and medium businesses are both growing fields. Creci is working at the intersection of these two opportunities to structure lending and impact measurement solutions for social impact entrepreneurs. We are at the beginning of our journey, having just started operations several months ago, but we are scaling quickly and growing fast. I am proud of this recognition. It is due to the terrific team we have in place and the work they have done thus far. About Creci Creci is an early-stage social impact lending platform that provides credit facilities to entrepreneurs working to further the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Creci assesses a projects impact and assigns it a social impact score. It currently makes loans in Colombia and plans to expand throughout the Americas. Media Contact: Andres Idarraga andres.idarraga(at)creci(dot)co +1-754-777-8549 Georgia SoftWorks (GSW) celebrates 15 years of partnership with BBM Software The GSW solutions are great with mobile devices, RF Terminals, Bar Code scanners and other data collection devices in wireless environments, which makes it an excellent match for the solutions that BBM provides Past News Releases RSS Georgia SoftWorks Unveils Newly... GSW Certifies Telnet Server and GSW... Slovenia Reseller Reaches 10 Years... Georgia SoftWorks (GSW) celebrates 15 years of partnership with BBM Software. Since 2004, BBM Software has been an Authorized Reseller of the GSW Telnet Server for Windows and SSH Server for Windows. Located in Croatia, BBM Software creates software packages for businesses, providing them the ability to transfer data, remotely operate, simplify procedures and extend their business in many areas. We are proud to have BBM on our reseller list. As our only Authorized Reseller in Croatia, they are very important to our reseller network. We appreciate how they serve their clients and offer the best solutions, and we are honored to be one of the solutions that they offer, said Steve Lindsey of Georgia SoftWorks. Founded in 1990, BBM Software produces programming support for various business segments. They focus on ease of use and speed of operation while retaining power and quality support. Currently, BBM has business applications installed in over 500 businesses and trades. They also develop automation and customer support applications for radio stations. The Georgia SoftWorks solutions are great with mobile devices, RF Terminals, Bar Code scanners and other data collection devices in wireless environments, which makes it an excellent match for the solutions that BBM provides, said Lindsey. BBM offers their customers the GSW Telnet Server for Windows, SSH Server for Windows, and numerous remote access utilities. Georgia SoftWorks is a software development company located in Dawsonville, Georgia USA who has gained worldwide recognition for their development of the GSW Telnet Server for Windows and SSH Server for Windows. GSW has end-users and resellers in every continent (except Antarctica). Their software is used in a variety of industries, including government, automobile manufacturing, schools, oil companies, airlines, pharmaceutical, medical, food and beverage and more. 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 DeAnna Looper, RN, CHPN, CHPCA was named Chief Compliance Officer Appointments signal Crossroads Hospices continued investment in innovative end-of-life care. Appointments Signal Continued Investment in Innovative End-of-Life Care DeAnna Looper, RN, CHPN, CHPCA, was named Chief Compliance Officer, and Danny Cox, BSN, was appointed Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations for Carrefour Associates, the management firm for Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care, one of the nations leading hospice care providers. Looper brings more than 40 years experience in healthcare, education and administration to this newly created position. As Chief Compliance Officer, she will oversee all clinical, legal and regulatory compliance operations across 11 Crossroads sites in seven states. She served most recently as Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations, refining her expertise in regulatory, clinical and legal compliance and promotion of clinical excellence through education of other Crossroads leaders. Joining Crossroads as a nurse at its founding in 1995 and advancing through several operational roles, Looper has been instrumental in leading the organization to the forefront of the hospice care industry. A graduate of Tulsa Junior College (now Tulsa Community College) with an AS in Nursing, Looper continued her education attending Kaplan University and University of Oklahoma. She earned certifications as a Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse, Hospice and Palliative Care Administrator, Legal Nurse Consultant, Grief Recovery Specialist, HPNA Approved Educator and ELNEC (end-of-life care) Trainer. She is a member of the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association, Health Care Compliance Association and the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics. Cox advances to Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations from his previous position as Clinical Consultant for Carrefour, a key clinical operations role he has held since 2014, successfully leading the implementation of a new hospice-specific electronic medical record platform across all 11 Crossroads sites. In his new role, Cox will be responsible for leading the enterprise-wide integration of all clinical operations for Crossroads. Cox joined Crossroads in 2011 as a Clinical Director at its Cincinnati, Ohio, location. Cox earned his nursing degrees from the University of Cincinnati, where he also served as an adjunct clinical instructor in nursing before joining Crossroads. With their combined expertise in hospice care, regulatory compliance, clinical operations and administration, and a shared passion for providing exceptional, compassionate care to our patients and their families, we are pleased to deepen our leadership bench with these outstanding professionals, said Crossroads CEO Perry Farmer. Editors Note: Photographs of DeAnna Looper and Danny Cox are available. # # # Crossroads Hospice & Palliative Care is committed to being at the forefront of the hospice care industry, continually shaping the way end-of-life care is viewed and administered. Crossroads mission is to provide highly unique, comprehensive, and compassionate hospice services to persons experiencing a life-limiting illness and to their caregivers. Visit http://www.crossroadshospice.com for more information. Bendle Public Schools Ryane Smythe Bentley Community Schools Jasmine West Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools Celia Peters Clio Area Schools Katie Woods Davison Community Schools Josie Rogers Flint Community Schools Kenia Diaz-Rojo Flushing Community Schools Laiken Lindstrom Genesee Academy Masoud Qahwah Genesee School District Madison Murdock Grand Blanc Community Schools Kiona Henry Kearsley Community Schools Lia Edgington Lake Fenton Community Schools Davis Roberts Linden Community Schools Isabella Abbott Mott Middle College Kamia Jamison Mt. Morris Consolidated Schools Princess Savage Richfield Public School Academy India Redmond Swartz Creek Community Schools Joe Genovesi Westwood Heights Schools Jazmine Williams Woodland Park Academy Olive Bills FLINT, Michigan The good work of hundreds of Blueberry Ambassadors was celebrated in a whirlwind end-of-year awards celebration Tuesday, May 7, at the University of Michigan-Flint's Riverfront Conference center.School-aged children throughout Genesee County volunteer to become Blueberry Ambassadors, each promising to do one random act of kindness and write about it in an effort to inspire others to also do good in our community. It is the sixth year for the program, founded by Flint businessman Phil Shaltz.Here is an excerpt of the Blueberry Moment submitted by Morgan Finley of Mott Middle College, which was awarded top honors winning the Founder's Choice Blueberry Ambassador Award:Sometimes we take for granted the little things. Even the tiniest things can make someones day. I heard the footsteps behind me. I glanced behind my shoulder to see an older lady with her hands full of textbooks. We were about to reach a doorway so I stepped aside and held it open for her. She smiled. Thank you, she said. I watched her keep walking and turn into a classroom, a smile was still on her face.It was strange, just for holding a door open, a thing anyone can do and everyone does, I made that woman smile for three extra seconds. I soon noticed that there was another person coming and I held the door open for them, handing them a Blueberry Card. The person smiled and thanked me, hurrying on their way. Yet, I noticed as they turned down the hallway, they were still smiling. It seemed from just opening the door, I could make people happy. If only for a moment or two. That got me thinking about how I feel when people do kind things for me. Just that morning, a cashier took 16 cents off my drink because I was short. Something so small and insignificant, 16 cents, an extra 2 seconds to hold the door open for someone Its a minor inconvenience for you, but a mood lifter for them. It makes me feel good that I can do something so small and have it have such a big impact on someone else.The Founder's Award winner will receive a $500 donation to their school and will be able to award a $12,000 scholarship for a junior or senior at their school to attend the University of Michigan-Flint for one year. The scholarship is funded through a personal donation from the Shaltz family and matching dollars from the University of Michigan-Flint provided by Chancellor Susan E. Borrego.Other award winners included Courtney Emerick, who was given the Inspirational Leader Award. She will award a $6,000 scholarship to the University of Michigan-Flint, funded through Huntington Bank and matching dollars from UM-Flint. And, Grand Blanc Mason Elementary won the People's Choice Award netting more than 18,000 votes in an online poll to secure a $1,000 donation to their school. More than 61,000 votes were cast in the poll.Blue Ribbon Award winners each received $100 donations to their school to do more good in their communities:For more information, visit imconcernedabouttheblueberries.com On April 15, 2019, DiabetesSisters received funds and assets of The Diabetes Collective (TDC) after the organization was dissolved. In 2017, DiabetesSisters partnered with TDC to expand programming with a joint conference in Alexandria, VA. The event included the DiabetesSisters Weekend for Women and the TDC Diabetes UnConference, welcomed more than 150 attendees, and provided diabetes education and support for people with diabetes in a respectful, nonjudgmental environment. Partners and caregivers joined a special educational track to learn more about chronic illness and better ways to offer support to those living with diabetes. The joint conference weekend in 2017 enabled our organizations to reach more people living with diabetes and provide important, necessary information for them, said Anna Norton, DiabetesSisters CEO. Our collaboration was unique in bringing together multiple segments of the diabetes community. Along with the rest of our community, we will miss The Diabetes Collective. The organization stressed the value of the patient voice. DiabetesSisters continues its commitment to providing support and education to women living with diabetes through online and in-person programs, thanks to the leadership of its Board of Directors. We are grateful for the collaboration between DiabetesSisters and The Diabetes Collective, said Donna Rice, Chair, DiabetesSisters Board of Directors. Our Board is committed to growing our organizations infrastructure and development of our staff. About DiabetesSisters: A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, DiabetesSisters is the only organization nationwide focusing exclusively on women living with diabetes. Our mission is to improve the health and quality of life of women living with and at risk of developing diabetes and to advocate on their behalf. DiabetesSisters has a 25,000-member peer network that unites women with diabetes for the purpose of support, education, and advocacy. For more information, visit https://diabetessisters.org. The Cruncha Poodell Detective Agency Series: Jeiri Nadura and the Royal Ruby of India: a charming animal detective story, is the creation of published author Diana Hill, a mother and author who based the storys animal characters on real pets shes had. Hill writes, She is a green-eyed beauty with a heart of gold and a ruby-red gem to carry out her mission. He also has a heart of gold with lots of green made from black gold. A colorful but typical tale you say? No, this is the tale of international intrigue, beginning in a small restaurante in Brazil. The scene is set for our two stars to meet, then it moves to the greatest detective agency in the world The Cruncha Poo-dell Detective Agency. Come inside and as you read you will be drawn into greed and heartlessness and, with their defeat, the emergence of generosity and goodness. More importantly is that the legacies of families, one generation to another, are honored, whether words of wisdom, a family homestead or a treasured jewel. As good stewards, the inheritors hopefully will continue the tradition with the care, sharing and preservation of these gifts. And The Cruncha Poo-dell Detective Agency follows through with these traditions in their mission by serving justice, believing in mercy and valuing family, friends and their esteemed clients. A wonderful and encouraging story for children of all ages. Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Diana Hills new book is an exciting, unforgettable adventure shared with a fun and colorful cast that will delight children until the last triumphant page. View a synopsis of The Cruncha Poodell Detective Agency Series: Jeiri Nadura and the Royal Ruby of India on YouTube. Consumers can purchase The Cruncha Poodell Detective Agency Series: Jeiri Nadura and the Royal Ruby of India at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about The Cruncha Poodell Detective Agency Series: Jeiri Nadura and the Royal Ruby of India, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919. Dr. Beletia Marvray Diamond, a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, an ordained itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and a faculty member at Spelman College, has completed her book A Survey of the History of the Black Church in America from the 1600s to the Present: a resource for educators seeking to develop a curriculum and a collection of strategies and techniques to enhance the teaching and learning process. The History of the Black Church in America from the 1600s to the Present: A Curriculum Course for Students at Spelman College is an academic course that seeks to further the students appreciation for the Black Church. Appreciation as understanding is vital to both the teaching and the learning process; therefore, each persons ability to appreciate and/or learn is distinctive, i.e., the individual is unique, and therefore, each persons ability to appreciate and/or understand should be measured/or assessed as such. Quite often there exists a defiance among some students of required courses in religious studies. Some dont see the connection or the relevance with religious studies as they pursue their intended careers. With such existing attitudes, it is the opportunity and the privilege of the professor to explore innovative methods, techniques, and exercisese.g., guest lecturers, DVD viewings, travels to religious sites, creation of religions (group), or whatever the professor deems appropriate to ensure the students opportunity to fulfill the goals and the objectives as set forth by the professor. Institutions of higher learning called historically black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, exist as institutions that seek to celebrate life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. HBCUs exist as beacons of light, filled with prepared women and men who have accepted and acknowledged the call and the challenge to further serve humankind as teachersrole models, demonstrating excellence. To whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:48). Published by New York City-based Page Publishing, Dr. Beletia Marvray Diamonds book is an invaluable resource for students of American history. Readers who wish to experience this academic work can purchase A Survey of the History of the Black Church in America from the 1600s to the Present at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708. About Page Publishing: Page Publishing is a traditional New York-based, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create - not overwhelmed with logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and the like. Its roster of accomplished authors and publishing professionals allows writers to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues to focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. Patty possesses the knowledge and characteristics that will help ensure EBSCO employees feel valued, while being given the freedom to thrive in their roles. EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) announces the hiring of Patricia Carroll as Senior Vice President of Human Resources (HR). Carroll brings extensive experience in HR to EBSCO and will be responsible for HR strategy on a global level. Carroll was most recently the Vice President, Human Resources, at OSRAM Sylvania, Inc., where she was responsible for developing the organizations HR strategy and establishing long-term plans to attract, retain and develop employees. Carroll focused on increasing engagement by fostering an innovative employee brand and culture. Carroll holds an MS from Suffolk University in Boston, Mass., and a BS from University of Massachusetts, Lowell. Before her time at OSRAM, Carroll worked in HR at Aspen Technology in Cambridge, Mass., and held earlier positions with Teradyne, UNICCO Service Company and Deloitte & Touche. EBSCO Information Services Founder and CEO Tim Collins says Carroll has the experience needed for the company to continue to foster its employees development while attracting and retaining new talent. EBSCO revolves around a culture of entrepreneurship, hard work and integrity. Patty possesses the knowledge and characteristics that will help ensure EBSCO employees feel valued, while being given the freedom to thrive in their roles. Carroll will work out of the companys international headquarters in Ipswich, Mass., and will be responsible for more than 3,000 employees in more than 30 countries. She says she looks forward to working with the company to continue to develop innovative HR solutions to help drive business results. EBSCO is a leading information technology company that is growing at a rapid pace. My goal is to work with the leadership team to be a change agent for employees and support the positive work environment here at EBSCO. About EBSCO Information Services EBSCO Information Services (EBSCO) is the leading discovery service provider for libraries worldwide with more than 11,000 discovery customers in over 100 countries. EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS) provides each institution with a comprehensive, single search box for its entire collection, offering unparalleled relevance ranking quality and extensive customization. EBSCO is also the preeminent provider of online research content for libraries, including hundreds of research databases, historical archives, point-of-care medical reference, and corporate learning tools serving millions of end users at tens of thousands of institutions. EBSCO is the leading provider of electronic journals & books for libraries, with subscription management for more than 360,000 serials, including more than 57,000 e-journals, as well as online access to more than 1,000,000 e-books. For more information, visit the EBSCO website at: http://www.ebsco.com. EBSCO Information Services is a division of EBSCO Industries, Inc., a family owned company since 1944. ### For more information, please contact: Jessica Holmes Communications Director 978-356-6500 ext. 3485 jmholmes@ebsco.com The future of work is centered on digitization and automation. MyGuide is happy to work with these companies' many customers in helping streamline processes and workflows for tens of thousands of employees across the enterprise. MyGuide by EdCast, the in-app solution for guides, intelligence and automation for business software and workflows, announces the launch of 1-click automation of business processes for leading enterprise software companies Salesforce, Workday, Oracle and ServiceNow. EdCast is pleased to be demonstrating MyGuides one-click automation capability for each of these solutions at ServiceNows Knowledge 2019 Conference this week in Las Vegas. The Knowledge 2019 conference is hosting over 10,000 attendees plus exhibitions from over 200 partners, with a primary focus on delivering digital workflows for employees and the enterprise. MyGuide's in-app automation solutions help enterprises and employees with their digital workflows -- including for HR, IT, Sales and CRM, and other software solutions. MyGuide allows users to fully automate processes to streamline pivotal tasks and functions, thereby boosting employee productivity and satisfaction. MyGuide is excited to bring 1-click automation to the world's leading enterprise software platforms, says Kalpit Jain, VP & GM of EdCasts MyGuide. The future of work is centered on digitization and automation. We are happy to work with these companies' many customers in helping streamline processes and workflows for tens of thousands of employees across the enterprise. In November 2018, EdCast announced that its Knowledge Cloud received application certification from ServiceNow, with its learning, upskilling and performance platform becoming seamlessly integrated with ServiceNows cloud platform. In October 2018, EdCast announced and demonstrated MyGuides in-app automation solutions for Oracle Software, Cloud and HCM suite of offerings at Oracle OpenWorld 2018. In September 2018, EdCast announced and demonstrated MyGuides in-app automation solutions for Salesforce CRM and cloud offerings at Dreamforce 2018. At ServiceNow Knowledge 2019 this week, attendees can see the live demonstrations of MyGuides automation solutions at Booth #E26. Or, to test MyGuides app, click here or go to MyGuide.org. To access EdCasts app on the ServiceNow Store, users can go to https://store.servicenow.com and search for EdCast or just click here. About EdCast EdCast is the AI-Powered Knowledge Cloud solution for unified discovery, personalized learning and knowledge management across the enterprise. Its award-winning platform is used internationally by Global 2000 companies and large government organizations, including NASSCOM and World Economic Forum, to solve the discovery and curation problems across all external and internal knowledge sources. EdCasts offerings include its Learning Experience Platform (LXP) and MyGuides in-app guides, intelligence, and automation for business processes and workflows. Follow on Twitter @EdCast. "Everynet.Exchange message brokering service has allowed us to rethink how we address the LPWA opportunity, creating a shared economy for our partners where we all benefit in proportion to what we invest"Chris Kelly of US IoT Network Everynet believes that global connectivity should be low cost and ubiquitous. In order to achieve this goal, we solved the private-public network roaming problem in a simple, secure, distributed, and efficient way by leveraging Amazon Web Services (AWS). Instead of basic LPWA initiatives, which aim only to minimize costs, Everynet.Exchange offers Enterprises and private Campus networks the unique ability not only to break-even, but also to create a revenue stream and become net-positive generators. Everynet.Exchange is an AWS-based, geo-redundant, scalable, and secure platform. Virtually every aspect of the server infrastructure is monitored 24x365 by Everynets fully staffed ISO 9001 & ISO 27000 certified Network Operations Centre which guarantees carrier grade availability. The service has already completed closed alpha testing with selected partners and is expanding to a wider beta testing group. Full production release is targeted end of Q4 2019. Registration for Everynet.Exchange opens now with preferential rates awarded for early adopters. "Everynet.Exchange message brokering service has allowed us to rethink how we address the LPWA opportunity says Chris Kelly of US IoT Network, it completely transforms the conventional approach to building the IoT chain and creates a shared economy for our partners where we all benefit in proportion to what we invest" For information on our beta release, please register at http://everynet.exchange or contact us at exchange(at)everynet(dot)com to arrange a meeting at the LoRa Alliance Annual Members Meeting in Berlin, June 11-13th 2019. About Everynet: Everynet has pioneered the concept of Everywhere: a disruptive and unrivalled business model to deploy large-scale, neutral-host, commercial LoRaWAN networks with lowest-cost, lowest-risk, quickest time- to-revenue and carrier grade quality. This model has proven hugely successful, generating a massive paying subscriber base and the highest utilized national networks in the world, transacting a billion messages already through our advanced technology partnership with AWS. Excelsior College Weve offered the nuclear engineering technology degree for years, but theres never been a better time to enter the program, said Lisa Romano, Excelsior Colleges regional director of government and workforce partnerships. Industry retirements are creating an opportunity to earn a degree now." Excelsior College has partnered with the non-profit agency Energy Providers Coalition for Education (EPCE), as well as energy industry businesses and other schools, to offer employees in the energy sector the opportunity to earn a nuclear engineering technology degree. One company taking advantage of this program is Exelon Corporation, which has strengthened its workforce by joining EPCE and offering employees the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology from Excelsior College. The school has been offering the program through EPCE since 2007. Since the programs inception with Exelon, 1,772 students have earned their degree through Excelsior College. The program remains popular as demand grows in the field. The Nuclear Energy Institute estimates nearly 40 percent of the nuclear workforce reached retirement eligibility in 2018. That means opportunities in the field are expected to grow. Weve offered the nuclear engineering technology degree for years, but theres never been a better time to enter the program, said Lisa Romano, Excelsior Colleges regional director of government and workforce partnerships. Were in an interesting time in the nuclear power industry where the older, experienced workers are beginning to retire out of the profession. Thats creating a remarkable opportunity for those who earn a degree now. The program is a collaboration involving a network of education, business, and the nonprofit sector. EPCE works with more than 2,500 companies, connecting them with industry-inspired academic programs for employees. Exelon Corporation, a partner with EPCE, offers an excellent example of how the system works. Exelon ranks among the largest competitive power generators in the United States. The Exelon family of companies represents every stage of the energy value chain. They include Electric, BGE, ComEd, Delmarva Power, PECO and Pepco subsidiaries. Exelons six utilities deliver electricity and natural gas to 10 million customers in Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the District of Columbia. Through EPCE, Exelon offers employees access to enter the Excelsior College nuclear engineering technology degree program. The degree is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), a national non-governmental organization that reviews and accredits programs that meet certain standards and successfully prepare graduates for jobs in engineering and technology fields. Some of the students from Exelon have earned an associate degree from one of Excelsior Colleges community college partners. Also, after earning their bachelors degree, some return to Excelsior College to earn their graduate degree as they rise through the ranks and need leadership and management skills. Exelon is just one example of how Excelsior College works in collaboration with community colleges, nonprofits and industry. EPCE also promotes other Excelsior College programs with employers, including the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology (ABET accredited), Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (ABET accredited) and Master of Business Administration. This program fits well with our values. We are always looking for ways to forge partnerships that help us achieve our goal of providing as many students as possible a chance to improve their lives by earning a college degree, said Lisa LaVigna, Excelsior Colleges Director of Strategic Partnerships and Alliances. About Excelsior College Excelsior College is a regionally accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are academically and geographicallyremoving obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity. All eyes in New York City real estate are focused on Brooklyn, and we are thrilled to inspire both current and future female and male leaders by giving them an insiders view on how that came to be. The Fordham Real Estate Institute will head to Brooklyn for the second event in its popular She Builds breakfast series. She Builds: Slaying Dragons in Brooklyn will take place on Friday, May 17, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at The Williamsburg Hotel. Open to any real estate professional looking to grow their careers, the event will feature the real estate powerhouses that built the Barclays Center, the Williamsburg Hotel and more. Real estate legend MaryAnne Gilmartin, CEO at L&L MAG, will moderate the morning panel. She will lead an inspiring discussion about the boroughs transformation to a real estate hotbed and the visions for future expansion with some of the biggest forces in Brooklyn development: Sonia Kaur Bain, Partner, Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner Ofer Cohen, Founder and CEO, TerraCRG Sadie McKeown, EVP and COO, Community Preservation Corp. Toby Moskovits, President and Founder, Heritage Equity Partners All eyes in New York City real estate are focused on Brooklyn, and we are thrilled to inspire both current and future female and male leaders by giving them an insiders view on how that came to be, said Anthony R. Davidson, PhD, MBA, dean of Fordhams School of Professional and Continuing Studies. We are honored that MaryAnne has continued to help us grow the She Builds program and look forward to an eye-opening and thought-provoking discussion with our esteemed panelists. She Builds: Slaying Dragons in Brooklyn will take place on Friday, May 17, at The Williamsburg Hotel (96 Wythe Street). Registration for the event is $50. To register, visit https://www.fordham.edu/shebuilds. ### ABOUT THE FORDHAM REAL ESTATE INSTITUTE The Fordham Real Estate Institute (REI) currently offers a Master of Science in Real Estate (MSRE), graduate certificates in real estate finance, development and construction management, and a comprehensive array of professional certificates in real estate and construction at its campuses in Manhattan and West Harrison, N.Y. Serving professionals and owners/investors of all stripes, the MSRE curriculum presents the essential elements of real estate finance, investment, development and management. The programs are developed and taught by leading industry practitioners and are centered on imparting real-world professional skill sets. Flexibility and convenience are program hallmarks as classes can be taken in-person, online, and at various paces. REI is a part of Fordhams School of Professional and Continuing Studies. For more information, visit http://www.fordham.edu/realestate. HUBZone Certified Logo With this HUBZone certification, Galaxy is able to expand its business opportunities with federal government contracts, while contributing to the economic development of our area. said Galaxy CEO Eric Lutz. Galaxy Wire & Cable, Inc. (https://www.galaxywire.com/), a leading cable and wire supplier, announces that as of May 1, 2019, it is now certified by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) as qualified HUBZone (Historically Underutilized Business Zone) small business. Galaxy is now eligible for preferential consideration for contracts the US government, whose annual goal is to award at least 3% of all federal contract dollars to HUBZone-certified small businesses. Galaxy's location in Horsham, PA is in an SBA-designated HUBZone, and Galaxy meets the strict HUBZone requirements as a small business owned by a US citizen with at least 35% of its employees living in the HUBZone. Galaxy is now eligible for HUBZone business opportunities and will be included on the list of qualified HUBZone small business concerns. This certification is in addition to Galaxy's existing status as a certified woman-owned business/womens business enterprise (WBENC). Galaxy's HUBZone profile can be found at: http://dsbs.sba.gov/dsbs/search/dsp_profile.cfm?duns=884984766. With this HUBZone certification, Galaxy is able to expand its business opportunities with federal government contracts, while contributing to the economic development of our area. said Galaxy CEO Eric Lutz. About Galaxy Wire & Cable, Inc. Galaxy Wire & Cable is a leading supplier and manufacturer of custom and stock wire and cable, in a variety of insulation and jacket materials, with many conductor, shielding and enhancement options. Design and engineering assistance is also available. Offerings include cable assemblies, wire harnesses, box builds, jumpers and wire leads. Cable and wire from Galaxy is used in a variety of industries and applications. Galaxy is a certified woman-owned business/womens business enterprise (WBENC), ISO 9001:2015 certified and ITAR registered. Visit Galaxy Wire & Cable online at https://www.galaxywire.com/ for complete information on all wire and cable products. German is an excellent match for this position and a strong asset to the group. Keypoint Intelligence InfoTrends welcomes German Sacristan as Director of the Production Print & Media group. In his role, Sacristan will support customers with strategic go-to-market advice related to production printing in graphic arts and similar industry segments. Responsibilities include conducting market research, industry and technology forecasts, custom consulting and development of analyses, editorial content on technology, as well as support to clients in the areas of production digital printing. German is an excellent match for this position and a strong asset to the group, commented Ron Gilboa, Group Director for the Production Technology Group at Keypoint Intelligence InfoTrends. Having worked in digital printing since 1997 in various sales, business development and managerial roles for companies including Xerox, Creo and Kodak, makes him a valuable addition to our team. Im looking forward to helping clients by sharing my knowledge and past experiences where I supported and guided hundreds of print service providers and marketing representatives as well as agencies and brands in their transition and implementation of digital printing, stated German. During his 8 years at Kodak, he successfully led the customer business development and consultancy team in Europe and Americas by contributing growth with strategic customers. While at Xerox, he was recognized as a sales MVP and was responsible for growing market acceptance Creo workflow-based solutions. Most recently German was General Manager for Hiti Digital, a Taiwanese printer supplier, where he contributed to rapid printer unit growth and photo technology adoption. German is an evangelist and thought-leader of digital printing; authoring a book, articles/white papers and has delivered highly rated seminars worldwide. About InfoTrends InfoTrends is the leading worldwide market research and strategic consulting firm for the imaging, document solutions, production print, and digital media industries. We provide insights and advice to help clients understand market trends, identify opportunities, and grow their business. For media inquiries contact Donna O'Malley at donna.omalley@keypointintelligence.com or +1 781.616.2116. About Keypoint Intelligence Keypoint Intelligence is a global data and market intelligence leader for the digital imaging industry. The company has over 125 professionals around the world who provide critical planning and go-to-market services, including in-depth market research, competitive intelligence, sales training, product testing, content creation, and customer engagement. For more information, contact Mike Fergus at mike.fergus@keypointintelligence.com or +1 973.797.2150. A laugh out loud look at life and love! Publisher Avi Gvili of Boulevard Books announces that the hit comedy book God, Please Give Me Patienceand Hurry! written by TV sketch comedy writer Michael Conley and Brooklyn born Sicilian-American actress and comedienne Candice Azzara is a great gift to celebrate Moms, Step-Moms, and Grandmothers for Mothers Day. Azzara celebrates her landmark 40 years in showbiz and has starred in numerous hit major movies playing a Mom to the Whos Who of Hollywood A-Listers: from Jorja Fox in Food for the Heart to a Mother to Jennifer Jason Leigh in Easy Money with Rodney Dangerfield to her critically-acclaimed role of step-mother to both Cameron Diaz and Toni Collette in the fan favorite feature film called In Her Shoes directed by Oscar winner Curtis Hanson. She has also played memorable recurring Mother roles for decades in hit Network sit-coms and TV movies. Most recently, she played Mom to Mayim Bialik in Lifetimes The Flight Before Christmas and most memorably as "mother" to Amy Pietz in Caroline in the City. She also was the (adoptive) mother to Lucy Liu in Pearl, and played a mother-in-law to Alyssa Milano in Whos the Boss? with Tony Danza. Azzara had other memorable recurring (non-motherly) roles on Soap and Rhoda. In addition to playing Pietzs mother, Azzara loved the duality of the role as she was Lea Thompsons nosy next-door Italian neighbor the same seasons. Azzara started her esteemed acting career when she starred in Lovers and Other Strangers on Broadway as an ingenue herself. Especially on Mothers Day, Azzara fondly recalls the legendary actresses who played her mother on screen, Oscar winner, Shelley Winters on The Love Boat movie and the inimitable Irish actress, Geraldine Fitzgerald in East Money. She also dedicates the book to her Sicilian mother, Josephine Bravo Azzara and pays homage to her in Chapter 15 called Italian Mothers in God, Please Give Me Patienceand Hurry! Conley is a veteran of variety/comedy sketch writing and a tribute award show writer who cut his teeth at the tender age of 22 (in 1982) when he began his writing career with sketch comedy for TV legend Bob Hope. He is born and raised in LA, Jesuit educated, and a veteran Hollywood publicist; he also served as Vatican Press Advance for Pope John Paul II and His Papal Mass at the LA Coliseum. He also dedicates the hit comedy book to his mother, Vivian Mary Conley. MEDIA CONTACT: Avi Gvili / Boulevard Books (917) 825-0390 The finest Grateful Dead Skeleton and Roses concert poster to ever appear at auction. This is the finest specimen of the legendary Grateful Dead concert poster to ever be auctioned. That's why our phones are ringing off the hook." A museum quality specimen of the legendary Grateful Dead Skeleton and Roses FD-26 concert poster is now open for bids. The poster has been independently authenticated and graded 9.8 by CGC, the finest quality CGC graded example to ever cross the auction block. The poster is offered by Psychedelic Art Exchange at https://concertpostergallery.com. Bidding is now open and ends Thursday, May 16th, at 9:00pm eastern. The poster is widely expected to exceed the world record price of $50,600 that was realized for a CGC graded 9.4 specimen that was auctioned off by Psychedelic Art Exchange on August 9, 2018. "This is universally recognized as one of the 'Holy Grails' of the entire genre," explains Glen Trosch, President of Psychedelic Art Exchange. "That's because this poster has history, rarity, quality, and one of the most famous counter culture images, all in one mind-blowing package." The poster was designed by legendary concert poster artists Alton Kelley and Stanley Mouse. It was used to promote two Grateful Dead concerts held September 16th and 17th, 1966 at the Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco, Ca. The famous "Skeleton and Roses" design would later be appropriated by the band as their logo. "The quality of this poster is simply astonishing," added Trosch. "It's so bright and fresh that it's hard to believe it's over 50 years old. It's easy to understand why CGC graded it 9.8, the highest grade to ever appear at auction. That's why our phones are ringing off the hook!" The auction also features over 200 other vintage 1960's concert posters. All of the posters have been independently authenticated and graded by CGC, the world leader for independent third party authentication and grading of collectibles. All lots are being sold unreserved and all lots have a starting bid of just $1.00. Check out the auction at https://concertpostergallery.com Global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP International Arbitration and Litigation Shareholder Thomas G. Allen will speak at the 2nd International ADR Conference 2019 during Thailand ADR Week, May 13-14, 2019, in Bangkok. This conference is sponsored by the International Chamber of Commerce, United Nations, Thailand Arbitration Center, and the Hong Kong Mediation Center. Attendees will include in-house counsel and government officials. Allen will participate in the third panel discussion titled, Supporting the Belt and Road: Dispute Resolution Options within ASEAN. The Belt and Road initiative is one of Chinas most ambitious foreign and economic policy initiatives. It consists of a vast program of infrastructure building throughout Chinas neighboring regions designed to link China by land and sea to major trading routes. Allen will discuss significant regional treaties and their investor protections that may become relevant in the event of project disputes under the initiative. Allen is one of the lead shareholders in Greenberg Traurigs International Arbitration and Litigation Practice. He also serves as vice-chair of the Dispute Resolution and Arbitration Committee of the Inter-Pacific Bar Association, the premier bar organization for ASEAN practitioners. Allens practice focuses on international commercial and investor-state arbitration and cross-border disputes. He splits time between Greenberg Traurigs Washington D.C., Tokyo, and Shanghai offices. Allen represents clients in a variety of industries with an emphasis on energy, manufacturing, construction, and aviation. He is a frequent lecturer and writer on international arbitration topics and is a former adjunct professor in the international arbitration discipline. Greenberg Traurigs International Arbitration and Litigation Practice comprises a multidisciplinary, globally integrated team that helps businesses avoid or resolve disputes efficiently and effectively around the world. The firm offers clients tailored services in harmony with their needs and for the specific transaction or dispute they are dealing with. About Greenberg Traurig, LLP: Greenberg Traurig, LLP (GT) has more than 2,000 attorneys in 39 offices in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. GT has been recognized for its philanthropic giving, diversity, and innovation, and is consistently among the largest firms in the U.S. on the Law360 400 and among the Top 20 on the Am Law Global 100. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com Twitter: @GT_Law. We are at the cusp of an explosion of new technologies that will revolutionize the agriculture space. GroGuru will have a display booth and will be presenting in the AGRI Tech Venture Summit at the Marriott Downtown at CF Toronto Eaton Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on May 15th, 2019. The AGRI Tech Venture Forum is an annual event that serves as a converging point for the global AgTech, or agriculture technology, elite. Industry giants, investors, accelerators, and innovators provide insight on the latest sector headwinds, technology milestones, and key challenges facing the future of AgTech. We are excited to be included as a presenting company in the AGRI Tech Venture Summit with such a distinguished group of attendees, speakers, panelists and presenting companies, said Patrick Henry, president and CEO at GroGuru. We are at the cusp of an explosion of new technologies that will revolutionize the agriculture space, increase crop yields, and grow crops in a more sustainable way. GroGuru's wireless underground system is one of the key game-changing technologies that will fuel this revolution. The AGRI Tech Venture Summit will include: Premium Networking: AgTech Executives, Entrepreneurs, Investors, Corporate Strategics, and more. Inspiration and Ingenuity: A Showcase featuring outstanding Growth & Early Stage Ag Tech companies. Business Intelligence: The latest investment and innovation trends direct from Industry Experts. "The AGRI Tech Venture Forum is an annual event held in Toronto that serves as a platform to accelerate agricultural innovation," said Hailey Monar, Marketing Lead at the AGRI Tech Venture Forum. "The entrepreneurs and start-ups that attend are an integral part of the event, and are massively sought after by the largest agribusinesses and investors at the forum. We are thrilled to have GroGuru in attendance as one of the key ag tech presenters taking the stage next week." To learn more about the summit or to purchase tickets to attend the summit, please go to https://agritechventureforum.com/. About GroGuru GroGuru, Inc. is a privately held company based in San Diego, C.A. that provides precision soil and irrigation monitoring systems to the commercial agriculture industry. GroGuru is focused on enabling farmers to optimally use water and fertilizer with an innovative hardware-enabled Software as a Service (SaaS) solution. GroGuru GroGurus 100 percent wireless underground technology enables a permanent installation of sensors, even in annual field crops. GroGuru is a portfolio company at the EvoNexus technology incubator, the premier technology incubator in Southern California. For more information, visit the GroGuru website at https://www.groguru.com. Past News Releases RSS Horn (https://www.horn.co) today announced that it is providing the communications technology to MIDI.org for a series of May is MIDI Month webinars focused on MIDI 2.0 beginning May 4th, 2019. Horn is a unique technology for web conferencing that includes audio, video, chat and more. MIDI.org has been using Horn to engage with their 18,000 member base in live panels as well as for leadership communications for several years. The May is MIDI Month webinars will take place at https://www.midi.org/live and they are being recorded and available for later viewing. https://www.midi.org/live is a Horn channel. For MIDI.org, Horn provided an easily-integrated website widget that allows for webinars with dozens of panelists and thousands of viewers and listeners that is easily managed. Of interest to audio, video and broadcast professionals and musicians (MIDI.orgs member base) is that each presenters audio track and video channel is recorded as discrete and separate files and uploaded directly to the channel owners cloud storage, allowing for clean and effortless post-production of presentations and seminars. The easy web implementation, in addition to Horns very high audio quality, low data bandwidth usage and discrete individual channel recording has made our implementation fast and painless, said Athan Billias, Digital Marketing Strategy Manager, Yamaha Corporation of America, MIDI Manufacturers Association Board Member, and Member of The MIDI Association advisory board. We look forward to putting Horns scalability and panel functionality to the test as we expand our use beyond meetings to mass MIDI education and creator sessions with many presenters and potentially thousands of audience members. Lawrence T. Levine, Horns CEO said, Weve engineered Horn to provide functions audio engineers will treasure such as the native ability to record individual channels for each panelist on a multi-presenter session when they have to mix down for syndication. To participate in the May is MIDI Month webinars, go to https://www.midi.org/live and log in using Social Sign On with any one of the following social media platforms: Google, Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Yahoo, Github, and Weibo. Webinar schedule: Controllerism May 4 at 3 PM Pacific Time A panel discussion with the people who created the Controllerism movement about how MIDI influences the world of Digital DJs. Panelists: Kelvin Chu, Laura Escude, Sam Gribbens, Moldover, Huston Singletary, Kate Stone, Shawn Wasabi Guthman Musical Instrument Design Competition 2019 May 11 at 7PM Pacific Time All three winners of the 2019 Guthman Musical Design Competition were MIDI Controllers. Check out Geoshred, AirSticks, and The Glide as well as other unique MIDI instruments. This panel discussion will also include live and video performances from the participants. Panelists: Jordan Rudess, Pat Scandalis, Alon Ilsar, Keith Groover, Qianqian Jin, Nathan Asman The Early History of MIDI -1981-1989 May 18 at 3 PM Pacific Time The people who originally created MIDI discuss the turbulent early days of MIDI before it became the established standard it is today. This webinar will truly be historic. Panelists: Anne Graham, Brian Vincik, Chris Meyer, Dave Smith, David Mash, Domenic Milano, Jeff Rona, Michelle Moog Koussa, Paul Lehrman, Ryan Alexander Diduck MIDI 2.0- The Future of MIDI May 25 at 10 AM Pacific Time We will be releasing details about MIDI 2.0 in weekly Blog articles and MIDI Message Newsletters in May. On May 25, MIDI Association members will have a chance to meet the team that put the new specification together. The members of the MMA MIDI-CI and Protocol working groups will explain their vision for the future of MIDI. MIDI.org will also be soliciting questions about MIDI 2.0 from TMA members in advance of the webinar. Panelists: Amos Gaynes, Andrew Mee, Chris Grigg, Dave Starkey, Florian Bome, Franz Detro, Mike Kent, Phil Burk, Rick Cohen, Tom White Horn is the live communications platform that bridges the communication chasm by getting people talking again - over the internet. In development for over five years (http://www.horn.co) is implementable through an easily generated website widget which allows site owners/users to convert web text chat traffic to voice instantaneously. Sign-in is seamless, with Horn only requiring a Facebook, Twitter, Google, Reddit, Weibo, Yahoo or GitHub account. A customized specific subscriber login capability is also available for white-label implementations. Learn more at http://www.horn.co. Recently three MIDI Manufacturers Association member companies released important MIDI Operating System support updates that will significantly expand the number of MIDI-enabled products worldwide to approximately 2.6 billion devices, including: Apple (Bluetooth MIDI), Google (MIDI in Android M, and Web MIDI in Chrome) and Microsoft (Windows 10). Levine concluded that, We are excited to have Horn play a part in the mission to educate and communicate the benefits of MIDI interactivity and interoperability to the millions of people who use MIDI not only in their musical instruments, but also on their computers, tablets and cell phones. About The MIDI Association (TMA) The MIDI Association is a global community of over 18,000 people who work, play, and create with MIDI technology at http://www.midi.org. To stay up to date with the latest MIDI news and stories, access current MIDI specifications and receive the MIDI Association newsletter, sign up for free at: http://www.midi.org/midi-signup. Course instructor Brennan Tolman shooting on the Oregon Coast. In an industry with no certifications, the photographers who have spent years honing and perfecting their craft lose business to brand new photographers that have little skill and are a lot cheaper. This will change with Wedding Mastery. How does a wedding photographer or videographer prove to their clients that they know what they are doing and that they deserve to charge what they do? In an industry with no certifications, the photographers who have spent years honing and perfecting their craft lose business to brand new photographers that have little skill and are a lot cheaper. This will change with Wedding Mastery. Wedding Mastery provides an amazing education as well as the opportunity to become a certified wedding photographer or videographer. Taught by mastermind Brennan Tolman, Wedding Mastery will teach different lessons that are crucial for every photographer/videographer to know. Students can then take a test that will result in being officially certified at that level. Amelia B, a student of Brennan Tolman, said, When I first started learning from Brennan last fall, I had only shot two personal weddings. In less than six months, with his techniques and training, Ive shot over 45 weddings with dozens more in the books. I learned so much about marketing myself and how to balance art and business. I am so grateful! There are three levels of certification, Bronze, Silver, and Gold. To achieve the higher levels of certification, a student must reach certain levels of expertise and experience. Enroll today and get an edge over the competition. Ikos, a fast-growing Pittsburgh-based tech company, has been working to simplify the residential leasing process for landlords and renters in seven markets across the United States. Today, the company announced that it has raised $4 million in growth funding, led by Draper Triangle Ventures. The round also includes new investors ValueStream, a New York City-based growth fund, as well as existing investors Birchmere Ventures and Riverfront Ventures. Changing The Way Residential Real Estate Is Leased Ikos helps landlords and property owners fill empty rental units. Using exclusive data, Ikos fill landlords vacancies quickly by pricing, listing, advertising, showing, and leasing properties. Landlords not only get their properties filled, they can make smarter investment decisions based on the proprietary real estate data that Ikos has acquired since starting. Since launching in late 2016, Ikos has rented thousands of properties in seven markets including, Chicago, Washington DC, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Cleveland and Milwaukee and now works with tens of thousands of renters each month. Where Will The Funding Take Ikos Next? After outgrowing its Downtown Pittsburgh office, Ikos recently moved into a new space in the Oakland neighborhood of the city. In addition, the company will move quickly, expanding product functionality, adding new residential real estate services, growing both staff and partnerships to expand its reach, and making more substantial investments in brand-building. About Ikos Residential leasing is messy that's why Ikos launched in Pittsburgh, PA in 2016 to improve and simplify the rental process for both landlords and renters. A graduate of nationally ranked accelerator AlphaLab, Ikos works closely with landlords and property owners to price, list, advertise, show, and fill properties using in-depth market insights and data. Ikos offers a competitive rate of half a month's rent, non-exclusive agreements with no catches, and advertising on 80+ websites, which has led to the renting of thousands of properties. For more information, please contact Lynsie Campbell at 412-254-4748 or lynsie.campbell(at)ikoshq.com. Peter F. Lake Peter F. Lake, Senior Higher Education Attorney with Steptoe & Johnson, and one of the countrys foremost authorities on higher education law, will give the closing address at Steptoe & Johnson PLLCs Higher Education Seminar on Thursday, May 23, at the Westin Pittsburgh. Experts from the areas of law, higher education, communications, and cybersecurity will address crucial issues facing colleges and universities. Lake will speak on college admission scandals and upcoming trends in higher education law. Lake is a professor with the Stetson University College of Law. He is also the Charles A. Dana chair and director of the Center for Excellence in Higher Education Law and Policy at Stetson University. Lake is an award winning teacher and writer in the areas of higher education law and policy, torts, insurance, and jurisprudence. He is the recipient of numerous national awards including the Vision Award from Alpha Chi Omega womens fraternity. He currently chairs the council of experts for the Virginia Tech Victims Family Outreach Foundation 32 National Campus Safety Initiative and serves as an advisor for SurvJustice, a national organization that advocates for survivors of sexual violence. Lake earned his law degree from Harvard Law School and his bachelors degree from Harvard College. For more information on the seminar, visit http://www.steptoe-johnson.com/education. About Steptoe & Johnson Steptoe & Johnson PLLC is a law firm nationally recognized for its strengths in energy law with more than a century of know-how in the areas of business, employment, and litigation. Steptoe & Johnson has nearly 300 attorneys practicing in 14 offices in Colorado, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. Visit http://www.steptoe-johnson.com and connect with us on Twitter and LinkedIn. For more information, contact Betsy Spellman, Chief Marketing Officer, at (304) 933-8000 or by email: press(at)steptoe-johnson(dot)com. Joshua Plant, Ph.D., has joined Isagenix International as chief science officer. He is also serving as chairman of the companys Scientific Advisory Board. Im thrilled to be part of a company that has made it possible for hundreds of thousands of people to embrace and enjoy a healthy lifestyle, and I look forward to playing a part in its continued success and growth. - Joshua Plant Isagenix International, a global health and wellness company providing nutrition and lifestyle solutions, has added Joshua Plant, Ph.D., to its executive leadership team, positioning the business for continued product excellence and innovation. Plant joins the company as its chief science officer. In his new role, he oversees the research and development, product design and development, product commercialization, and quality assurance of all Isagenix products. Plant has also been named chairman of the Isagenix Scientific Advisory Board, a group of top medical and health professionals who lend their experience and expertise to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of Isagenix products. Board members include Isagenix Founder John W. Anderson. With senior leadership experience in the nutritional supplement and direct selling industries, Plants previous positions include serving as vice president of research and development and then chief operating officer of a health and wellness direct selling business and chief science officer of a supplement manufacturer. Isagenix Chief Executive Officer Travis Ogden said Plant is a tremendous asset to the company. Joshua is incredibly bright and has great expertise in preventative health and nutritional sciences, which has earned him respect in both the health and wellness and direct selling industries, Ogden said. His experience will be instrumental in creating exceptional, innovative products that resonate with customers and help Isagenix transform lives around the world. Plant said he is honored to join the company and excited to help take it to the next level. Isagenix has a terrific reputation and has done stellar work in the health and wellness space, he said. Im thrilled to be part of a company that has made it possible for hundreds of thousands of people to embrace and enjoy a healthy lifestyle, and I look forward to playing a part in its continued success and growth. Plants experience prior to joining Isagenix includes a position as a research fellow at the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in biology, making him a first-generation college student. In addition, he received the prestigious National Institutes of Health International Research Fellowship, given to only 10 students each year. Plant also has a doctorate in biomedical sciences from Harvard University, where he graduated first in his class and completed a seven-year program in 3 1/2 years. To learn more about Isagenix, visit the Newsroom, like the company on Facebook, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram. About Isagenix International Established in 2002, Isagenix provides systems for weight loss, performance, vitality and well-being, personal care and beauty, and financial wellness. With nearly 600,000 customers worldwide and more than 100 life-changing products, packs, and systems globally, the company is committed to producing Solutions to Transform Lives. Isagenix shares its products and solutions through a network of independent distributors in 18 markets: the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Mexico, Singapore, Malaysia, Colombia, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and South Korea. Isagenix is a privately owned company with headquarters in Gilbert, Arizona. For more information, visit Isagenix.com. Kimble Applications, a global leader in professional services automation, today announced an update to its Intelligent PSA. The latest release introduces Intelligent Time Capture, making timesheet compliance in PSA easier than its ever been. Summer 19 enhances the consultant experience and intelligently guides time recording and approval so that businesses can make decisions based on accurate, up-to-date project data. This really makes time entry incredibly intuitive for our consultants a really great change, says Chris Manning, who administers the PSA for Virtual Clarity. Kimble will make a lot of people really happy with this release. The new, market-leading features in Summer 19 focus squarely on the users that drive the most value from PSA but traditionally receive the least attention in the marketplace - the consultant population that makes up the majority of PSA users. This disparity was addressed by Kimble product marketing manager Charles Gustine in a recent TSIA webinar Where the Rubber Hits the Road: Helping Consultants Become Technology Champions. Consultants are obviously essential to the operation of a consulting organization, says Gustine. And because of that theyre also essential to the success of any tool that involves them; the way they wield that tool whether they wield the tool determines what the ROI will be. Unfortunately, the people who probably feel least essential to the purchase and adoption of new technology are consultants. Kimble takes the lead in putting consultants at the center of the conversation with its Summer 19 release, which was deployed to a large number of customer sandboxes over the weekend and officially launches during the Technology Services World Conference in San Diego this week. There, visitors to the Kimble booth can see new features like a monthly timesheet summary, which allows users to instantly see where there are gaps in timesheet compliance and quickly act on them. The consultant home screen also presents them with new components that display their utilization percentage in the current year and with their allotment of Time Off In Lieu (TOIL). Upon arriving at their timesheet, users will be treated to a completely redesigned user experience that makes it clear at every step what actions are required to capture the work theyve done. New tooltips support this clarity, providing in-context help throughout the time entry process. The new design also reduces the total amount of steps required to enter and submit time, an initiative supported by new time entry shortcuts, prompts to copy time from a previous period, and new selective time entry capabilities. In Summer 19, Kimble introduces the ability to simply start and stop a timer for an assignment, further streamlining timesheet compliance while ensuring accuracy. In order to provide accurate business insights, a PSA relies on accurate information from the people in the field, says David Scott, founder and CTO of Kimble. We believe that the feedback weve received from our customers on what those users require, combined with our own insights on where PSA technology is heading have led to enhancements that will drive consultants to see timesheets as a chance to contribute to success rather than a chore. This is the most weve ever done for the largest group of PSA users, and we think that attention paid to the needs of consultants will have a profound effect on how much our solution will be able to transform the businesses that use it. Low-touch assignment management is an important aspect of the transformational Intelligent Time Capture package. The Kimble application intelligently assesses whether time entries are reasonable and manages those time entries on behalf of project managers without manual intervention. This increases the agility and efficiency of time capture for consultants and frees up project managers to focus on approvals and assignment management tasks that do require their attention, continuing Kimbles push to use augmented intelligence to make easy tasks easier so human intelligence can be focused on harder tasks. Accordingly, Kimbles Summer 19 release makes time capture more manageable as well as more usable through administrative enhancements, including a new ability to warn users where they have incomplete time periods in the past or to prevent time entry in later periods when this is the case. Kimble has not limited Intelligent Time Capture to its core PSA application - Kimbles mobile app, Kimble 2.0, will also receive usability upgrades in its next release, making it even easier for users to enter time and expenses on the go. About Kimble Applications Kimble Applications helps professional service organizations run their project-based businesses better. Global leaders in consulting, software and hi-tech such as NTT Data, TCS, Sage, and Canon use Kimble to optimize resource utilization, profitability and business scalability. Kimble is the only leading software vendor that focuses exclusively on professional services automation (PSA), putting all its energy into innovating features and easy-to-use functionality that improve team collaboration and efficiency around the key services processes. Built to work seamlessly with CRM, Kimble drives a forward-looking focus and more timely decision making with intelligent insights and guidance. La Jolla Mom Im so excited to be able to provide people with all the resources theyll need to make informed decisions when theyre traveling. Luxury hotel and travel expert Katie Dillon, also known as La Jolla Mom, is offering nationwide and global neighborhood guides on her website https://lajollamom.com. She is experienced in all things travel-related and her neighborhood guides will allow residents and tourists alike to take advantage of all the opportunities cities have to offer. La Jolla Moms guides offer tourists ideal locations to stay when visiting each neighborhood, highlighting luxury experiencesplus tips on the best restaurants and bars, things to do, places to shop, and how to save money on tours and attractions. Additionally, the guides will appeal to anyone with kids because each guide dedicates a section to unique local activities for families. In her La Jolla Guide, she includes reviews of neighborhood beaches and free activities that will appeal to both residents and nonresidents. Each guide provides users with reviews of attractions in the area, like the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park or the La Jolla Cove. Although the guides are not limited to a small regioncurrently, the website offers guides on San Francisco, New York City, San Diego, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and morethe information she is able to provide to travelers is unparalleled. Dillon is further expanding her guides locally and globally and will offer her expert knowledge on many locations. One unique perk specific to the San Diego Guides: they have been broken down by neighborhood, providing expert-level information for anyone making plans in the area. Im so excited to be able to provide people with all the resources theyll need to make informed decisions when theyre traveling. Another goal of the guides is to encourage residents to explore their own citys attractions, to visit a new-to-them museum or beach. People will certainly be able to have fun with their families, said Dillon. These neighborhood guides will allow people to make smart decisions about where to stay, eat, and how to buy tour and attraction tickets. Currently, La Jolla Mom is working with authorized Southern California and Orlando attraction ticket sellers to provide discounts to anyone who would like to visit. She is providing discount theme park tickets to a wide variety of parks, including LEGOLAND, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland, and so many others. Find discounted tickets through this link: https://lajollamom.com/tickets/. For readers looking for international destinations and perks, La Jolla Mom offers access to VIP amenities at five-star hotels worldwide as an Independent Affiliate of Cadence Travel. Dillons guides through La Jolla Mom will be a benefit to travelers and community members, plus her discounted ticket offers can make it so much easier to travel to Southern California and beyond. Learn more about Katie Dillon and La Jolla Mom at her website: https://lajollamom.com. About La Jolla Mom: Katie Dillon is a renowned lifestyle and luxury travel expert who has a passion for travel and has previously lived at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong for four years, which has sharpened her perspective and keen eye for luxury travel across the globe. When she is not traveling, she lives with her family in La Jolla, California. Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, PhD, Director of the Global Health and Emerging Pathogens Institute, and the Irene and Dr. Arthur M. Fishberg Professor of Microbiology and Medicine (Infectious Diseases) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), an honor signifying that a researcher has made outstanding contributions to the field. With his election, Mount Sinai has three current faculty members in the National Academy of Sciences: Dr. Garcia-Sastre; Maria Iandolo New, MD, Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine (Endocrinology), and Genetic and Genomic Sciences; and Peter Palese, PhD, Horace W. Goldsmith Professor and Chair of Microbiology, and Professor of Medicine (Infectious Diseases). For more than 20 years, Dr. Garcia-Sastre has researched the molecular biology of influenza viruses and several other negative-strand RNA viruses. His landmark contributions include the successful development of reverse genetics techniques allowing the recreation of the extinct pandemic influenza virus of 1918 from recombinant DNA. It is with great honor that I congratulate my colleague Dr. Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, who has made great contributes to science, said Dr. Palese. His work has enabled the reconstruction of the extinct 1918 influenza virus, has led to the identification of the biological role of the influenza virus NS1 protein as an interferon antagonist, and has informed continued efforts to develop a universal influenza virus vaccine. This is a great achievement and we are excited to see him continue this important work in the future. Dr. Garcia-Sastres research represents the frontier of his field, says Dennis S. Charney, MD, the Anne and Joel Ehrenkranz Dean of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. The discoveries made by him and others at Mount Sinai will result in powerful new means to combat deadly viruses that affect millions of people and lay the groundwork for discovery of viruses yet known. This distinguished achievement is well-deserved. Dr. Garcia-Sastre has researched the generation and evaluation of several vaccine candidates against different diseases, including influenza, malaria, AIDS, and cancer; and identified the biological role of the non-structural protein NS1 of the influenza virus during infection. His studies provided the first description and molecular analysis of a viral-encoded peptide among negative strand RNA viruses, which led to a generation of influenza viruses that may prove to be optimal live virus vaccines against influenza. His work has resulted in more than 500 scientific publications and reviews, and his translational efforts include more than 50 patents and the development of viral vaccines in the veterinary and human fields. Dr. Garcia-Sastre also serves as Director of the Center for Research on Influenza Pathogenesis, one of five National Institutes of Health Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance. About the Mount Sinai Health System The Mount Sinai Health System is New York City's largest integrated delivery system, encompassing eight hospitals, a leading medical school, and a vast network of ambulatory practices throughout the greater New York region. Mount Sinai's vision is to produce the safest care, the highest quality, the highest satisfaction, the best access and the best value of any health system in the nation. The Health System includes approximately 7,480 primary and specialty care physicians; 11 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 410 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. The Icahn School of Medicine is one of three medical schools that have earned distinction by multiple indicators: ranked in the top 20 by U.S. News & World Report's "Best Medical Schools", aligned with a U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" Hospital, No. 12 in the nation for National Institutes of Health funding, and among the top 10 most innovative research institutions as ranked by the journal Nature in its Nature Innovation Index. This reflects a special level of excellence in education, clinical practice, and research. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked No. 18 on U.S. News & World Report's "Honor Roll" of top U.S. hospitals; it is one of the nation's top 20 hospitals in Gastroenterology/GI Surgery, Geriatrics, Nephrology, and Neurology/Neurosurgery, and in the top 50 in six other specialties in the 2018-2019 "Best Hospitals" issue. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked nationally in five out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 11th nationally for Ophthalmology and 44th for Ear, Nose, and Throat. Mount Sinai Beth Israel, Mount Sinai St. Luke's, Mount Sinai West, and South Nassau Communities Hospital are ranked regionally. For more information, visit http://www.mountsinai.org/, or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Heather Furnas, MD, FACS Dr. Heather Furnas is a board certified plastic surgeon, with close to 30 years of plastic and cosmetic surgery experience Plastic Surgery Associates Heather Furnas, MD, FACS will be speaking at the upcoming ASAPS Aesthetic Meeting 2019 in New Orleans. The annual conference will be held from May 16 through May 21 at the New Orleans Convention Center. Dr. Furnas, a top expert on female genital rejuvenation, will be discussing the latest updates in this specialty. The ASAPS meeting is held once a year, hosting some of the leading providers of plastic and cosmetic surgery. Attendees come from all over the world to meet with their peers and participate in discussions with outstanding physicians on the latest topics in aesthetic medicine. Designed to enhance skills and encourage ideas for professional growth, this years meeting will host three mini-symposia on breast reconstruction, facial rejuvenation and gender confirmation. Attendees of the meeting can earn a total of 50.25 continuing education credits. At the upcoming meeting, Dr. Furnas has been asked to present during the Premier Global Hot Topics session on May 17th. Dr. Furnas will address the latest updates from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding RF feminine rejuvenation devices as part of the New Tech and Controversies in Feminine Rejuvenation segment. Dr. Furnas will be followed by an update on light-based feminine rejuvenation devices from fellow plastic surgeon, Jennifer Walden, MD. Additionally, Dr. Furnas will moderate the panel, Nuances in Aesthetic Female Genital Surgery: A 360 Degree Perspective with panelists Gary Atler, MD, John Hunter, MD and Lina Triana, MD. ABOUT DR. HEATHER FURNAS Dr. Heather Furnas is a board certified plastic surgeon, with close to 30 years of plastic and cosmetic surgery experience. An alumni Stanford University and UCLA School of Medicine, she has served on the plastic surgery faculty at Harvard Medical School and on the staff at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston. Today, Dr. Furnas is Adjunct Assistant Professor, Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Stanford University. In 1990, Dr. Furnas founded Plastic Surgery Associates along with her husband, and Francisco Canales, MD. Specializing in cosmetic procedures for the face, breast and body, Dr. Furnas is widely known for her work in female genital surgery and noninvasive vaginal rejuvenation techniques. She routinely lectures both at home and internationally on vaginal rejuvenation techniques. In 2017, she was presented with the Tiffany Award for the best scientific paper, "Why Women Choose Labiaplasty." Her work as guest editor for the journal, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, won an Ozzie Honorable Mention Award for its in-depth look at women in plastic surgery. To get more information on the upcoming 2019 Aesthetic Meeting, visit the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Learn more about the work of Dr. Furnas, contact Plastic Surgery Associates at 415.895.5032. Consultations with Dr. Furnas and Dr. Canales can be scheduled at either of Plastic Surgery Associates offices, in Santa Rosa or Novato, California. Contact Information Plastic Surgery Associates 4625 Quigg Drive Santa Rosa, California 95409 707.537.2111 http://www.enhanceyourimage.com Were excited to work with and provide support for our channel partners as we focus on helping law firms reach their full potential. LexisNexis Legal & Professional, part of RELX and a leading global provider of information and analytics, and LEAP Legal Software, have entered into an agreement to form a joint venture to support the growth and development of PCLaw and Time Matters, leading Law Firm Practice Management (LFPM) software solutions for small-to-medium sized law firms. Under the agreement, PCLaw | Time Matters LLC will be jointly operated by LEAP and LexisNexis, and will provide law firm customers with product enhancements, improved customer support for LexisNexis leading on-premise solution, and a simple migration path to LEAPs best-in-class cloud solution. PCLaw | Time Matters also provides LexisNexis Certified Industry Consultants with an invigorated product platform, enhanced customer support and a broader, highly successful product portfolio to grow their businesses and increase their revenue streams. LEAP is dedicated to providing excellent customer support and innovative software to both on-premise and cloud-based customers, said Richard Hugo-Hamman, Executive Chairman of LEAP. PCLaw | Time Matters will offer all the productivity and efficiency benefits of a modern technology solution to a broader range of customers. Were excited to work with and provide support for our channel partners as we focus on helping law firms reach their full potential. In LEAP, we have found a trusted partner with longevity in the legal market, providing cloud-based solutions and high levels of customer support, said Scott Wallingford, Vice President and General Manager for law firm software solutions for LexisNexis Legal & Professional. Through PCLaw | Time Matters, our customers can utilize all aspects of law firm practice management software however they want, whether on-premise or in the cloud, including time recording, billing, legal accounting, document production and more. LEAP is a well-established, global provider of cloud-based legal software solutions. For customers seeking a smooth transition to the cloud, LEAP provides proven data transition capabilities with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations or loss of customer data. For more information, see http://www.leaplegalsoftware.com and http://www.leap.us. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. About LEAP Legal Software LEAP Legal Software U.S. is part of the LEAP/InfoTrack group of companies, an established provider of law firm practice management cloud-based software and legal property title searching in Australia and the UK. 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, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. The magnitude of experience shown by our creative marketing staff is impressive and helps keep our clients on the forefront of marketing and creative in their respective industries. Al Croke, Local Marketing Solutions Group Inc.s President & CEO Local Marketing Solutions Group Inc. announces 15 Addy Awards and the Research in Action Award from Mississippi Tourism for documented success won in 2019, adding to the 130 previous honors. Al Croke, Local Marketing Solutions Group Inc.s President & CEO, said, Another record breaking year of Addy wins totaling 15 this season and bring our company groups 25-year totals to over 130 awards working with companies like Acuity Insurance, Bank OZK, Big Brother Big Sisters of Sheboygan County, Chicago Blues Festival, Keesler Federal Credit Union, Kohler Company, LAVA Brand Motion Lamp, Meals On Wheels, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Mississippi Tourism Bureau, Mississippi History Museum, Outboard Marine Corporation, Strategic Data Systems, among others. Croke added, The magnitude of experience shown by our creative marketing staff is impressive and helps keep our clients on the forefront of marketing and creative in their respective industries. Godwin Executive Chairman Philip Shirley said, Godwin is honored to have several Addys awarded this year across Gulf Coast and Jackson competitions, especially the Best of Show for Broadcast and the Mosaic Award for Diversity in Advertising. Our clients expect the highest standards for creative and marketing excellence from our team and these awards recognize those successes in the marketplace. Some examples: Godwin won for the recently completed Mississippi Runs Deep campaign. This tourism campaign generated outstanding results in visitors, room nights booked, visitor spending and ROI. A complete rundown of the work and verified results can be found at the URL: https://godwin.com/work/mdah-home. Mississippi Tourism recognized this work for generating a record-breaking 21:1 return on investment that was well documented. It also resulted in winning Best of Show in Broadcast. Godwin also won a coveted Judges Choice award for Keesler Federal Credit Union Holiday Helper Campaign in the Category: Integrated Advertising Campaign, Consumer, National. Judges Choice awards are awarded to an outstanding best entry in a specific category from among the Gold award winners and recognizes the highest level of achievement. A judges choice is not awarded unless a specific entry is deemed exceptional. For the Acuity Insurance 2010 annual report, Dufour designed a pop-up book to illustrate Acuitys storybook year. It is now permanently housed in the Smithsonian, where it was made part of the Cooper-Hewitt collections rare books section. See: http://makingofapopup.com ABOUT LOCAL MARKETING SOLUTIONS GROUP, INC. Local Marketing Solutions Group, Inc. (http://www.lmsg.co) is No. 1,673 on the 37th annual Inc. 5000, the most prestigious ranking of the nations fastest-growing private companies. LMSG was formed in 2012 by the executive management team of JGSullivan Interactive Inc. The purpose of the holding company is to continue the expansion of offering the broadest and most efficient marketing and sales solutions to national and international brands that drive revenue through local sales and marketing channels. The company provides marketing automation technology and supporting sales and marketing services capabilities, allowing corporate sales and marketing to control brand image and to ultimately facilitate use of product and service content and materials for local channels. Operating units and Brands include JGSullivan Interactive (http://www.jgsullivan.com), DuFour Advertising (http://www.dufour.com), WeblyGuys (http://www.weblyguys.com), KMA One (http://www.kmaone.com) and Godwin (http://www.Godwin.com). ABOUT GODWIN Godwin (http://www.godwin.com) was founded in 1937 and is the Souths oldest marketing communications firm. Headquartered in Jackson, MS, with offices in Biloxi and Dallas, Godwin serves clients nationwide, primarily in healthcare, banking, finance and insurance, utilities, tourism, manufacturing, food and consumer goods. It has been recognized among the nations leading agencies by Ad Age and AdWeek. Godwin provides branding, advertising and reputation management services, as well as digital and web marketing services. ABOUT DUFOUR ADVERTISING Established in 1980, DuFour Advertising is a full service advertising agency specializing in video, digital media, and print. Recognized internationally for creative, award-winning ideas with a focus on results, DuFour Advertising provides comprehensive communications services, including: marketing and advertising strategy and production, brand building, public relations, and media planning and placement. Clients include: ACUITY Insurance, Kohler Co., Red Arrow, Vollrath, Mercury Marine, Wigwam Mills, Mario-Camacho Foods, Lava Brand Motion Lamps, and Manitowoc Food Service. Website: http://DuFour.com Thats when I read about the very real plan Garbo had cooked up with British Secret Intelligence and called The Big One to assassinate her biggest fan Adolf Hitler. Greta Garbo may have wanted to be alone onscreen, but off she conspired with British Intelligence to save the world by stopping WWII before it could start. This amazing historical fact is the premise of a brand new novel by debut author Jon James Miller. The tale is based on real events surrounding movie star Greta Garbos abrupt departure from the movies in 1941, and blends the best of noir with action, history and romance. Its also Millers way of honoring his late mother, Jean Dempsey, who was a huge Garbo fan, and passed her obsession with the queen of golden age Hollywood onto her youngest son. My Mom was a voracious reader and huge classic movie fan. She turned me on to all the stars of the 1930s and 40s, including Garbo. Years later after my Mom passed of colon cancer and I attended film school, I thought it would be fun to cast Garbo in a film noir thriller. Thats when I read about the very real plan Garbo had cooked up with British Secret Intelligence and called The Big One to assassinate her biggest fan Adolf Hitler. Hitler was obsessed with the movie star, and had his own print of Garbos Camille that he would watch over and over again. He used to write Garbo fan letters, inviting her to come to Nazi Germany. And Garbo is quoted as saying, if the war didnt start when it did, I would have gone, pulled out a gun and shot him because I would never have been searched. If my Mom were still alive today, I think she would have loved to read a story like that. It would be years later when Miller, an award-winning screenwriter was working on a cable documentary and came across Seth Moseley, an old tabloid reporter. Miller and Moseley soon became friends, and the reporter told Miller about the time he discovered Garbo in the mens room aboard an ocean liner in the Port of New York, hiding from a gaggle of reporters who had learned she was onboard traveling under an alias. Moseleys encounter with the movie star inspired Miller to finally write the novel. I thought it would be fun casting Garbo, the heroine from Mata Hari and Queen Christina, on a real-life top secret mission to kill Hitler, he says. I wanted to explore what it would actually be like if Garbo embarked on her secret mission, then simply ran out of time en route. What would have happened to her trapped on the open sea, surrounded by Nazis? I knew I had a great premise to build the novel on. But while Miller admits writing his first novel was a steep learning curve, getting his work published took even greater effort, and time, than he could have imagined. My literary agent, Jill Marr is a fantastic agent and signed me right away. Jill was there for me when my first publisher went out of business, and the second turned out to be a bad fit. I actually ended up buying back the rights to my novel, and it wasnt until four years later that Amphorae Publishing Group bought it. Its been a long haul to publication but the folks at Amphorae are great and I have no regrets! Greta Garbos career would come to an abrupt end in 1941 with the ill-conceived comedy Two-Faced Woman, her last film. But Miller contends that the war changed the world and cinema forever - ushering in the dark and menacing noir films of the 1940s, leaving Garbo's romantic heroines in the cold. But Miller, who spent many years researching WWII and the men and women who sacrificed their lives to defeat fascism, argues the movie stars legacy goes well beyond the silver screen. Garbo helped obtain the release of physicist Niels Bohr from occupied Denmark to Sweden and later to America. Bohr would later work on the Manhattan Project, dedicated to creating the worlds first atomic bomb, and finally bring an end to World War II. Incidentally, my Moms very first job was as a secretary, working on the Manhattan Project in New York City. Growing up, I had heard she was part of something top secret but didnt really put it all together until I started researching for the novel. Now, its kind of cool to see the connection between Mom and Garbo, her favorite movie star. Looking For Garbo is dedicated to Millers Mom, and the fond memories of watching black and white movies together. The author stresses that the novel is a work of fiction but theres obviously semi-autobiographical moments throughout. Theres a lot of my Mom in this story, for sure, Miller says. She loved the glamorous movie stars and reading about their private lives. I think she would have loved to have seen Garbo sacrifice herself in order to save the world. Its definitely her kind of story. Beginning in 2017, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) began changing the rules applicable to H-1B visa petition adjudication. These rule changes led to unprecedented denial rates for companies in the Information Technology Services sector. Member companies of the ITServe Alliance (ITServe), a coalition of IT Services companies in the United States, had sporadically filed individual lawsuits challenging denied H-1B visa petitions and the legality of the new rules created by USCIS. However, USCIS typically would reopen and reapprove petitions to avoid judicial review of their policies. This provided relief for individual plaintiff companies but did not prevent USCIS from continuing to violate the law. Consequently, ITServe and its member companies in coordination with attorney Jonathan Wasden conducted a mass litigation campaign, designed to force USCIS into defending their policies in open court. These cases challenged the legality of three new rules: 1. Creating a significantly higher evidentiary burden for companies whose employees perform services at a client location (i.e. IT consulting companies and nurse/medical staffing companies), and a lower evidentiary burden for all other H-1B employers 2. Requiring IT consulting companies and nurse/medical staffing companies to prove guaranteed specific and non-speculative work assignments for the entire three-year duration of the H-1B visa 3. Allowing USCIS to pick, essentially at random, how long it will approve an H-1B work visa (often times approving a visa for as little as one day). This practice prohibited employers from actually utilizing the employee, and dramatically increased the fees employers were required to pay USCIS for H-1B extension petitions (seeking to extend the visa beyond the 1-day approval) Because the cases presented overlapping legal issues, the US District Court for the District of Columbia ordered the cases be consolidated to resolve the issues in common. The cases are now consolidated under the name ITSERVICE ALLIANCE v. CISSNA, D.D.C.18-cv-2350. The District Courts agreement in scheduling an oral argument is seen in the interest of ITServe Alliance. The hearing in the mass litigation case is scheduled for May 9, 2019, before Judge Collyer in Washington DC, and is open to the public. Immigration stakeholders in the United States believe that USICIS routinely flouts its own regulations and the current administration's restrictive approach to employment-based immigration has resulted in a spike in denials of visa petitions and work authorization applications (as shown by USCIS data). Some of these employees had been in the country for more than 10 years, on multiple H-1B extensions, without any problem. Because of hidden rule changes these employees were no longer deemed eligible for H-1B visas. About ITServe Alliance ITServe is the largest association of Information Technology Solutions & Services organizations in the US, representing over 1,100 member companies. Through the years, ITServe has evolved as a leading platform to collaborate and to further the interests of member companies. Some of the recent notable achievements include successfully challenging USCIS website update to prevent STEM OPT students from working at 3rd party work locations. For further information, contact Deepali Khadakban at PRMedia@itserve.org Follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/7794223/ Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ITServeAlliance/ The Women Presidents Organization (WPO) has announced the 12th annual ranking of the 50 Fastest-Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies. Winners were announced during the WPO Annual Conference, held this year in Charlotte, NC. The companies featured on this years list span a wide variety of industries, including technology and finance, emerging sectors for women. Aggregate revenues of the 50 companies are $5.9 billion, representing a significant impact towards women-led companies contribution towards the global economy. For its fourth year in a row, Maximum Games, based in Walnut Creek, CA, has made the esteemed list, this year being ranked #11. Headed by CEO Christina Seelye, Maximum Games is one of the top 20 video game publishers in the world. Maximum Games employs over 50 people in the US and UK. I am delighted that this year our rankings show that women entrepreneurs are branching out into every sector of business, said WPO President and Founder Dr. Marsha Firestone. We are also very encouraged that companies of all sizes, such as Maximum Games, are represented. Some smaller but very successful companies demonstrated significant growth this year. Being amongst the many women-owned businesses recognized by WPO is a huge honor and I am beyond proud to be included for the fourth year in a row, said Christina Seelye. Its also very encouraging to see more women in industries that break gender stereotypes. All eligible companies included in this years list were ranked according to a sales growth formula, combining percentage and absolute growth. Additional facts about the 2019 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Businesses: Average age of women-owner/leader is 50, younger than the average age of 51 last year Aggregate revenue is $5.9 billion Average 2018 revenue was $117.1 million Average number of employees on first day: 9; projected average for 2019: 492 Funding sources at company start: 1. 78% with their own funds 2. 22% with funds from friends and family 3. 6% with a bank loan 4. 6% with a line of credit 5. 4% with a credit card 6. 8% with private investors/angels All 50 companies were honored at a special event at the 2019 WPO Annual Conference at the Westin Charlotte on Thursday, May 2, 2019. Following the luncheon and awards ceremony, WPO hosted a Guide to Growth discussion featuring a selection of 50 Fastest winners sharing advice for established entrepreneurs working to increase businesses. About Capital One Capital One Financial Corporation is headquartered in McLean, Virginia. Its subsidiaries, Capital One, N.A. and Capital One Bank (USA), N. A., offer a broad spectrum of financial products and services to consumers, small businesses and commercial clients. We apply the same principles of innovation, collaboration and empowerment in our commitment to our communities across the country that we do in our business. We recognize that helping to build strong and healthy communities good places to work, good places to do business and good places to raise families benefits us all and we are proud to support this and other community initiatives. About The Women Presidents Organization The WPO is the premier peer advisory organization connecting women who own multi-million-dollar companies. In monthly meetings across six continents, chapters of 20 women presidents from diverse industries invest time and energy in themselves and their businesses to drive their corporations to the next level. Local WPO chapters are coordinated by a professional facilitator and meet monthly to share business expertise and experience in a confidential setting. For more information, contact 212-688-4114 or visit http://www.womenpresidentsorg.com. Follow the WPO on Twitter @womenpresidents and Facebook @TheWPO. About Maximum Games Maximum Games is a top 20 full-service publisher and curator of quality games across all major platforms and global markets. The company is dedicated to its never-ending pursuit to bring unique gameplay experiences to consumers worldwide through strategic partnerships and a hands-on approach to publishing, marketing and distribution. For more information, visit http://www.maximumgames.com. Kenall's new MedMaster MedSlot luminaire for healthcare environments Kenalls newest healthcare lighting series, MedSlot, is a family of 4 wide healthcare luminaires in multiple lengths and configurations that are ideal for healthcare settings such as patient rooms, hallways, lobbies and waiting areas. The multi-function MedSlot luminaire has a continuous appearance that eliminates functional compartments and lends itself beautifully to patient room applications. MedSlot luminaires are available in single and multi-function (ambient/reading/exam) styles, with optional features integrated into a slim, architectural form that can be mounted in grid and flanged ceilings, or trimless drywall. The MedSlot family of luminaires provides a clean, streamlined look, extraordinary functionality and sealed performance. An IP64 rating and antimicrobial finish to help prevent the spread of infection are standard features for this product line, said Frank Gonzales, Kenalls Director of Product Management. The MedSlot is one of several new lighting products being released this spring. For more information about this and Kenalls other lighting solutions, visit Kenall.com. About Kenall Kenall Manufacturing, and independent business of Legrand, was founded in Chicago, Illinois in 1963 and has built a reputation for durable lighting solutions of superior quality and exceptional value. Today, the company creates unique solutions for the healthcare, cleanroom/containment, food processing, transportation, high abuse, and correctional lighting markets. Kenall luminaires are designed and manufactured in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and meet the guidelines established under the Buy American Act and the North American Free Trade Agreement. For additional information, visit http://www.kenall.com. About Legrand and Legrand, North and Central America Legrand is the global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures. Its comprehensive offering of solutions for use in commercial, industrial, and residential markets makes it a benchmark for customers worldwide. Legrand reported sales of around $7.1 billion (USD) in 2018. Legrand has a strong presence in North and Central America, with a portfolio of well-known market brands and product lines that includes AFCO Systems, C2G, Cablofil, Chief, Da-Lite, Electrorack, Finelite, Kenall, Luxul, Middle Atlantic Products, Milestone AV, Nuvo, OCL, On-Q, Ortronics, Pass & Seymour, Pinnacle, Projecta, QMotion, Quiktron, Raritan, Sanus, Server Technology, Solarfective, Vaddio, Vantage, Wattstopper, and Wiremold. Legrand is listed on Euronext Paris and is a component stock of indexes including the CAC40, http://www.legrand.us. The National WWI Museum and Memorial is Americas leading institution dedicated to remembering, interpreting and understanding the Great War and its enduring impact on the global community. The National WW1 Museum and Memorial holds the most comprehensive collection of World War I objects and documents in the world and is the second-oldest public museum dedicated to preserving the objects, history and experiences of the war. As the commemoration of the Centennial of World War I (2014-19) continues, the National WWI Museum and Memorial serves as a fitting place to honor and recognize the men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving their country during Memorial Day weekend. Admission to the Museum and Memorial is free for veterans and active duty military personnel, while general admission for the public is half-price all weekend (Friday-Monday, May 24-27). The Museum and Memorial offers a wide variety of events during the weekend for people of all ages, including a free public ceremony at 10 a.m. on Memorial Day featuring musical performances from Kansas City native Casi Joy (recording artist from NBCs The Voice) and a keynote address from U.S. World War I Centennial Commissioner Dr. Monique Seefried. Support for Memorial Day is provided by the Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund of Kansas City, Mo., and 810 WHB. MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND ACTIVITIES FLAGS OF FORGOTTEN SOLDIERS DISPLAY When: All Day; Friday-Monday, May 24-27 Where: Walkway Terrace near Main Entrance at the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that every 72 minutes, a service member takes his or her own life. This moving display of 140 U.S. flags calls attention to the fact that 140 veterans are lost to suicide every week. FREE to the public. WORLD WAR I RESEARCH STATIONS When: All Day; Friday-Monday, May 24-27 Where: Outside J.C. Nichols Auditorium Lobby inside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: Find your connection to World War I during Memorial Day weekend through research stations at the Museum. With access to multiple databases including, Fold3.com, Ancestry.com, the Museum and Memorials online collections database, the American Battlefield Monuments Commission and the National Archives, discover how the Great War affected your family through records, photographs and much more. FREE to the public. LETTER WRITING When: All Day; Friday-Monday, May 24-27 Where: Outside Wylie Gallery inside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: Just as in World War I, letters help remind those who serve of home. In support of Operation Gratitude, write a letter to our veterans, deployed troops, new recruits and first responders. FREE to the public. FOOD TRUCKS When: Times Vary; Saturday-Monday, May 25-27 Where: Southeast Lawn outside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: Fantastic Kansas City food trucks CoffeeCakeKC (Saturday & Monday, 9-11:30 a.m.) and Detroit Coney (Saturday-Monday, Noon 3 p.m.) will offer delicious food during Memorial Day Weekend. Availability subject to weather. VIETNAM ERA BELL UH-1 IROQUOIS HUEY HELICOPTER DISPLAY When: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday-Monday, May 25-27 Where: Rectangular Drive outside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #243 will provide an iconic Bell UH-1 Iroquois Huey helicopter for display. FREE to the public. VINTAGE MILITARY VEHICLE DISPLAY When: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, May 25-26 Where: Southeast Lawn outside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: The Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA) will display more than 20 vintage military vehicles from World War I, World War II, Korean War and Operation Desert Storm. MVPA members will be available to answer questions about their collection. Availability subject to weather. FREE to the public. HANDS-ON HISTORY When: 11 a.m.; Saturday, May 25 Where: Near Paul Sunderland Bridge inside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: History is brought to life during this family-friendly program, where kids of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts. FREE to the public. WOUNDED WARRIORS FAMILY SUPPORT HIGH FIVE TOUR VEHICLE DISPLAY When: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday-Monday, May 26-27 Where: South Walkway Entrance, Walk of Honor Section at the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: During an eight-month tour, a mobility-equipped 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor truck adorned with a patriotic theme and a Purple Heart on its hood will travel thousands of miles across the United States before being donated to a combat wounded veteran. People of all walks of life are invited and encouraged to show their support for our combat wounded veterans and their families by making a donation and signing the tour vehicle with a message of support. FREE to the public. CRAFT YOUR OWN POPPY When: 11 a.m. 1 p.m.; Sunday, May 26 Where: J.C. Nichols Auditorium Lobby inside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: Commemorate Memorial Day by creating your own felt poppy pin or ornament in this family-friendly craft experience. FREE to the Public. BANK OF AMERICA CELEBRATION AT THE STATION When: 3 p.m.; Sunday, May 26 (concert begins at 8 p.m.) Where: North Lawn outside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: Kick off your summer with the largest free Memorial Day weekend event in the Midwest. The Kansas City Symphony, led by Music Director Michael Stern, performs patriotic favorites against the backdrop of Kansas City's historic Union Station. Celebration at the Station concludes with a fireworks display over the Liberty Memorial at the National WWI Museum and Memorial. FREE to the public. NATIONAL WWI MUSEUM AND MEMORIAL BENEFIT PANCAKE BREAKFAST When: 9-11 a.m.; Monday, May 27 Where: Over There Cafe inside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: Enjoy some flapjacks (with hashbrowns and sausage/bacon) in a unique setting during a pancake feed with proceeds benefiting the National WWI Museum and Memorial. The meals are $11 for adults and $6 for children (12 and under) and include a beverage. MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY When: 10-11 a.m.; Monday, May 27 Where: Memorial Courtyard outside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: A formal public program to include remarks from dignitaries, including U.S. Missouri Fifth District Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II, Kansas City and Missouri Mayor Sly James (a former U.S. Marine), a keynote address from U.S. World War I Centennial Commissioner Dr. Monique Seefried, musical performances from Casi Joy (recording artist from NBCs The Voice), USAF Staff Sgt. Paula Hunt and the USAF of Mid-America Hot Brass Band and much more. ASL interpretation will be provided for the ceremony. FREE to the public. MEMORIAL DAY BELL TOLLING CEREMONY When: Noon; Monday, May 27 Where: Memorial Courtyard outside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: We commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice with a bell tolling ceremony featuring a presentation of colors, a wreath laying and a moving reading. The bell used for this ceremony was originally located at a federal building in downtown Kansas City and was rung daily by the Daughters of the American Revolution during U.S. involvement in WWI (1917-1918). It was also tolled 11 times at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1926 during the dedication ceremony of the Liberty Memorial and again on Nov. 11, 2018 to commemorate the centennial of the WWI armistice. FREE to the public. CASI JOY MEET & GREET When: 12:30-1 p.m.; Monday, May 27 Where: Memorial Courtyard outside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: Renowned entertainer and Kansas City native Casi Joy (from NBCs The Voice) returns to her hometown for a meet and greet/fan signing event between moving performances at the Memorial Day Ceremony (10 a.m.) and the Walk of Honor Ceremony (2 p.m.). Items will be available for purchase or fans are welcome to bring their own items. FREE to the public. WALK OF HONOR DEDICATION CEREMONY When: 2 p.m.; Monday, May 27 Where: J.C. Nichols Auditorium inside the National WWI Museum and Memorial What: More than 100 new Walk of Honor granite bricks will be dedicated during a special ceremony featuring musical performances from Kansas City native Casi Joy. The Walk of Honor is divided into three sections: bricks dedicated solely to those who served in World War I; bricks dedicated to veterans of any military service; and bricks that honor civilian friends, family or organizations. Walk of Honor bricks are dedicated twice each year during Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies. FREE to the public. MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND HOURS AND PARKING The National WWI Museum and Memorial will be open from 10 a.m. 5 p.m. Friday-Sunday and from 9 a.m. 5 p.m. on Monday. To accommodate expected high Memorial Day weekend attendance, additional parking will be available on the Southeast lawn of the complex (weather permitting). About the National WWI Museum and Memorial The National WWI Museum and Memorial is Americas leading institution dedicated to remembering, interpreting and understanding the Great War and its enduring impact on the global community. The Museum and Memorial holds the most comprehensive collection of World War I objects and documents in the world and is the second-oldest public museum dedicated to preserving the objects, history and experiences of the war. The Museum and Memorial takes visitors of all ages on an epic journey through a transformative period and shares deeply personal stories of courage, honor, patriotism and sacrifice. Designated by Congress as Americas official World War I Museum and Memorial and located in downtown Kansas City, Mo., the National WWI Museum and Memorial inspires thought, dialogue and learning to make the experiences of the Great War era meaningful and relevant for present and future generations. To learn more, visit theworldwar.org. This expansion will enable us to meet the future expanding storage needs of the surrounding community and to build upon a location that has served the Spring Hill location wonderfully since 2004. Metro Storage LLC recently announced the purchase of a 5.7-acre parcel of land in Spring Hill, Florida. Located on Suncoast Parkway just north of Spring Hill Drive, the property is adjacent to the existing Spring Hill Metro Self Storage facility located at 3300 Barclay. Preliminary plans call for an expansion of the existing self-storage facility. The demand for self-storage in the Tampa market remains strong, said Marty Gallagher, President of Metro Storage LLC. This expansion will enable us to meet the future expanding storage needs of the surrounding community and to build upon a location that has served the Spring Hill location wonderfully since 2004. The new property, located adjacent to the existing Barclay Avenue facility, will ultimately provide all the storage product categories todays consumer demands through the addition of approximately 132,000 rentable square feet of storage units. Metro currently owns and operates 17 stores in the Tampa/St. Petersburg market. About Metro Storage LLC Metro Storage LLC is a privately owned, fully integrated, international self-storage company specializing in the development, construction, acquisition, and management of self-storage facilities in the USA, Brazil, and Central America. Metro operates under the trademark Metro Self Storage in the US, being one of the top 10 largest owner/operators of self-storage facilities in the United States with over 135 stores covering 14 states. Metro Storage International (MSI) has an affiliate/partner in Brazil which operates under the trade name MetroFit. MSIs affiliate/partner in Central America operates under the trade name Mr. Bodeguitas, and is Central Americas leading self-storage operator with locations throughout Guatemala, El Salvador, and Costa Rica. More information about the firm is available at http://www.metrostoragecorporate.com. Milgard Most Used and Recognized Builder Magazine Customers are excited about our popular black interior and exterior window frame option, said Jeremiah Noneman, senior marketing director at Milgard Windows & Doors. Were proud to receive brand recognition and preference in the industry again for our fiberglass windows. Milgard Windows & Doors was awarded as the Most Used and Most Recognized fiberglass window brand in the Western United States from BUILDER Magazine, the leading media brand for the residential construction industry. Customers are excited about our popular black interior and exterior window frame option with our Ultra Series windows and doors, said Jeremiah Noneman, senior marketing director at Milgard Windows & Doors. Were proud to receive brand recognition and preference in the industry again for our fiberglass windows. Milgard began manufacturing fiberglass windows and patio doors in 1990 as a solution for complex window designs. Over the years, fiberglass frames have become a popular choice among homeowners and architects because the strong and durable material provides design freedom and a sleek, contemporary look. Milgard tests every fiberglass frame for color uniformity, gloss, film thickness and chemical resistance which results in quality and long-lasting performance. The annual BUILDER Brand Use Study identifies top brands and industry trends professionals rely on. Qualified builders, developers and general contractors are asked to rank quality, usage and familiarity of different brands across over 50 building product categories. The 2019 study also awarded Milgard as #1 for Vinyl Window Quality Nationwide. Learn more about Milgard high quality fiberglass windows: https://www.milgard.com/windows/ultra-series About Milgard Windows & Doors Milgard Windows & Doors, a Masco company based in Tacoma, Washington, offers a full line of vinyl, wood, fiberglass and aluminum windows and patio doors for builders, dealers and homeowners, backed by a Full Lifetime Warranty, including parts and labor. The company has been recognized as Builders Choice for vinyl and fiberglass windows in the Western United States, in a yearly survey sponsored by Hanley-Wood Inc., publishers of BUILDER Magazine. Milgard is the highest online rated window and patio door brand, as measured by the 2018 NRS consumer sentiment study conducted by MetrixLab and commissioned by Masco. Milgard has approximately 3,300 points of sale nationwide. For more information, visit milgard.com or call 1.800.MILGARD. About Masco Corporation Masco Corporation (NYSE: MAS), parent company of Milgard Windows & Doors, is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of branded home improvement and building products. Our portfolio of industry-leading brands includes Behr paint; Delta and Hansgrohe faucets, bath and shower fixtures; KraftMaid and Merillat cabinets; Milgard windows and doors; Kichler decorative and outdoor lighting; and Hot Spring spas. We leverage our powerful brands across product categories, sales channels and geographies to create value for our customers and shareholders. For more information about Masco Corporation, visit Masco.com. About Hanley Wood Hanley Wood is the premier company serving the information, media, and marketing needs of the residential, commercial design and construction industry. Utilizing the largest analytics and editorially driven Construction Industry Database, the company provides business intelligence and data-driven services. The company produces award-winning media, high-profile executive events, and strategic marketing solutions. About BUILDER Hanley Woods BUILDER is the leading authority in the residential construction industry and serves as the magazine of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). For more than three decades, BUILDER has provided essential news, information and resources about products, technologies, trends, regulatory requirements and best practices to help home building professionals succeed in todays market. This is a reflection of Stetsons financial strength and community stewardship of our academic, cultural and financial resources. For the fifth time since 2010, Moodys Investor Service is affirming Stetson Universitys A3 rating and outlook as stable. Moodys issued its annual outlook on Stetson University on Monday and affirmed Stetson University's A3 rating on Series 2015 revenue bonds issued through the Volusia County Educational Facility Authority. Stetsons A3 Stable investment grade rating from Moodys was reaffirmed yesterday, said Executive Vice President and CFO F. Robert Bob Huth. This is a reflection of Stetsons financial strength and community stewardship of our academic, cultural and financial resources. The A3 rating report issued by Moodys Investor Service noted the universitys positive financial status, healthy donor and alumni support, regional academic reputation and endowment. The outlook offered by Moodys was for sustained positive performance. About Stetson University Founded in 1883, Stetson University is the oldest private university in Central Florida. Stetson focuses on intense learning experiences in a supportive community that allows students to develop their voice in a connected, inclusive environment. Stetson University ranks No. 5 on U.S. News & World Reports 2019 list of Best Regional Universities (South), and has been recognized as one of The Princeton Reviews 384 Best Colleges, 2019 edition. Stay connected with Stetson on social media. www.NAELA.org ...at this years Annual Conference, attendees from across the country will participate in interactive sessions led by experts in the field to sharpen their skills and knowledge on these topics. The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), a professional association for elder law and special needs planning attorneys, will host the NAELA Annual Conference from May 9-11 at the Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel. NAELA members and speakers have helped define this area of law and at this years Annual Conference, attendees from across the country will participate in interactive sessions led by experts in the field to sharpen their skills and knowledge on these topics. This year's event includes the following general and breakout sessions: 25 Common Nursing Home Problems and How to Resolve Them with Eric Carlson, Esq.; Go Fund Me, Go Fund Me Not The Impact of Crowd Funding on Public Benefits with Mary Alice Jackson, Esq.; Lessons Learned From Planning Under the New VA Rule with Victoria Collier, CELA; and Connecting with Senior Clients and Their Adult Children Through Law Firm Technology with Audrey Ehrhardt, Esq. View the conference schedule. NAELA will also present the following awards at the conference: NAELA Fellows; Powley Elder Law Award; John J. Regan Writing Award; Presidents Recognition Award; Theresa Award; and Outstanding Chapter Member Awards. Learn more about NAELA awards. Members of the media are welcome to attend the NAELA Annual Conference. For information, contact Communications Manager Abby M. Reitz by email [amatienzo@naela.org] or phone at 703-942-5711 #230. About NAELA Members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) are attorneys who are experienced and trained in working with the legal problems of aging Americans and individuals of all ages with disabilities. Upon joining, NAELA member attorneys agree to adhere to the NAELA Aspirational Standards. Established in 1987, NAELA is a non-profit association that assists lawyers, bar organizations, and others. The mission of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys is educate, inspire, serve, and provide community to attorneys with practices in elder and special needs law. NAELA currently has members across the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. For more information, visit NAELA.org, or to locate a NAELA member in your area, visit NAELA.org/findlawyer. NRDC Western Director and Senior Attorney Joel Reynolds Dickinson will present The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), an international environmental advocacy organization, with The Sam Rose 58 and Julie Walters Prize at Dickinson College for Global Environmental Activism. The $100,000 prize is given annually to an individual or organization that makes a defining difference and advances responsible action on behalf of the planet, its resources and people. Actor and environmentalist Pierce Brosnan, a longtime NRDC supporter and advocacy partner, will accept the award on behalf of the NRDC alongside NRDC Western Director and Senior Attorney Joel Reynolds at Dickinsons Commencement on Sunday, May 19. The Rose-Walters Prize honors the NRDCs work defending Americas wildlands, including the Arctic National Refuge, Bristol Bay in Alaska, and the monuments of the West. Founded in 1970, the NRDC works every day to safeguard the Earth: its people, its plants and animals and the natural systems on which all life depends. At the core of its mission is a simple idea: a healthy environment should be a basic right. NRDC creates solutions for lasting environmental change by combining the power of more than 3 million members and online activists with the expertise of over 600 scientists, lawyers and policy advocates. In recent years, NRDC has been at the forefront of advancing clean energy and climate resilience policies in cities across the globe, fighting for safe drinking waterincluding for the residents of Flint, Michigandefending endangered wildlife and wild spaces. Brosnan, the legendary Irish-American actor, film producer, philanthropist, artist, two-time Golden Globe Award nominee and environmentalist, together with his wife, Keely Shaye Brosnan, partnered with the NRDC to block construction of the worlds largest industrial salt factory at Laguna San Ignacio on Mexicos Baja California peninsula, in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and United Nations Biosphere Reserve and the last pristine breeding ground for the Pacific gray whale. Over the past 25 years, Brosnan has also worked closely with NRDC to control the illegal use of high intensity military active sonar by the U.S. and other navies and to end commercial whaling around the world. In addition to receiving NRDCs Forces for Nature Award in 2015, Brosnans environmental work was recognized with the 2007 Goldene Kamera award. Reynolds, NRDCs principal institutional representative in the West, joined the organization as a senior attorney in 1990, after a decade with the Center for Law in the Public Interest and the Western Center on Law and Poverty, both in Los Angeles. Since 1980, he has specialized in complex law-reform litigation, arguing cases on behalf of environmental and community groups at all levels of the federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. In addition to partnering with Brosnan to protect gray whales at Laguna San Ignacio and control high intensity sonar, Reynolds has led successful campaigns to reduce ocean noise pollution, to protect the popular California State Park at San Onofre and, most recently, to oppose the Pebble Mine in southwest Alaska. He has twice been recognized by California Lawyer Magazine as California Lawyer of the Year in the environmental category, first in 2003 and again in 2008. He is chair of the 240,000-acre Tejon Ranch Conservancy and has contributed to the opinion pages of major media outlets like The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post and The Christian Science Monitor. Reynolds will return to campus during the 2019-20 academic year to conduct a brief residency, meet with Dickinson students and deliver a public lecture. As long-time supporters of the NRDC, Rose and Walters endowed their prize to honor NRDC co-founder John H. Adams and his years of dedication and service to environmental causes. In 2011, Adams was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama. In 2012, Dickinson presented Adams with a Doctor of Public Service honorary degree. Prior recipients of the Rose-Walters Prize include Our Childrens Trust, the advocacy organization representing 21 young plaintiffs in the landmark federal climate change lawsuit Juliana v. United States; Brett Jenks, CEO of conservation nonprofit Rare; environmental activist, author and journalist Bill McKibben; Pulitzer Prize-winning author Elizabeth Kolbert; award-winning actor and environmental activist Mark Ruffalo; Apples vice president of environment, policy and social initiatives and former EPA administrator Lisa Jackson; and award-winning nature photographer James Balog. Dickinson is a highly selective private liberal-arts college of 2,400 students and a national leader and innovator in sustainability education. Students are challenged through classroom studies, living laboratories, service learning, student-faculty research and study abroad to build the knowledge and skills that are needed to create a sustainable world. Opportunities for hands-on learning include working with community groups to protect local watersheds and air quality, learning about solar energy, growing food on the colleges USDA-certified organic farm and producing biogas from food waste. Sustainable practices and values are underscored by a commitment to climate neutrality, green building practices, socially responsible investment and diverse community engagement. Dickinsons achievements and leadership have earned the highest recognitions from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, Sierra Magazine, the Sustainable Endowments Institute, The Princeton Review and Second Nature. http://www.dickinson.edu. Cargo Facts Consulting (CFC), a leading global consultancy to the air logistics industry and a sister venture of industry newsletter Cargo Facts, today released its latest forecast for the global freighter aircraft fleet, and projected significant growth in the global freighter aircraft fleet over the next 20 years. We predict long-term air cargo traffic growth to come in at just under 4% per year, said CFCs Managing Director Frederic Horst, adding that this translates into the demand for over 3,300 aircraft from feeders to large jets. Over the next twenty years CFCs Freighter Forecast projects the addition of 2,380 jet freighters and 421 feeder aircraft to cater for both growth and retirements of older aircraft. Roughly half of these additions will replace aircraft retired from the fleet. During this period, the consultancy forecasts that the worlds jet freighter fleet to grow from 1,782 to 2,920 units, and the worlds feeder fleet to expand from 239 to 431 units. Factory-built freighters are forecast to make up 34% of aircraft additions in the jet freighter segment, albeit with large differences across individual categories. CFC foresees 21% of new additions in the feeder segment will be satisfied by production freighters. Operating economics mean that, particularly in the large widebody segment, production freighter are king, notes Horst. However, in the narrowbody segment we foresee that all freighters will continue to be converted passenger aircraft. As such the availability of suitable passenger aircraft for conversion is a key factor in meeting the demand for new freighters. Because of the importance of this topic, this years Freighter Forecast contains a special section on passenger-to-freighter feedstock supply. A new add-on Feedstock analysis tool examines the potential feedstock supply for popular 21 different passenger aircraft types with active or potential conversion programs from ATR-42s through to 777-300ERs. The grounding of the 737 MAX fleet has created short- to medium-term disruptions in this sector and is delaying the transition from older generation to new generation narrowbody freighter aircraft, explains Horst. As in previous years, the report takes a detailed look at expected near-term and long-term developments in the turboprop/regional jet, narrowbody, medium and large widebody segments. The 2019 report has additional details on the turboprop/regional jet segment of the freighter market, where CFC projects notable growth. Theres not enough attention paid to the feeder side of the freighter market today, Horst said. Were rightly changing that with the 2019 Forecast. This 14th edition of the yearly report includes CFCs prediction for the freighter fleet make-up for all four segments in 2038, taking into account an assessment of new-build freighter production, passenger-to-freighter (P-to-F) conversion activity, and the retirement of freighters from the existing freighter fleet. As the worlds only comprehensive and independent freighter forecast, the Cargo Facts Freighter Forecast has been the fundamental resource for strategic analysis of the current and future freighter fleet since 2006. For more information or to order the newly released edition, please visit cfcinsights.com. ABOUT CARGO FACTS CONSULTING Cargo Facts Consulting (CFC) is the premier aviation consulting firm specializing in the freighter aircraft, air freight and express businesses. The firms extensive experience stretches over forty years, beginning with the deregulation of the U.S. domestic air cargo industry in 1978. Since then, the firm has served a wide variety of U.S. and international clients, including integrated express operators, all-cargo airlines, combination carriers, financial institutions, airport authorities, aircraft manufacturers, and industry suppliers. CFC has an outstanding reputation within the industry and is quoted frequently in the press on matters relating to air freight markets and the application of freighter aircraft. For more information, visit cargofactsconsulting.com. CFC is a unit of Royal Media at http://www.royalmedia.com. Report author and Cargo Facts Consulting Managing Director Frederic Horst has 18 years of strategy, planning, commercial, operational and government experience across the air cargo, express, aviation and transportation infrastructure business. He has held senior positions with Air Bridge Cargo, Air Cargo Germany, DHL Aviation and Cargolux, as well as the State Government in New South Wales. Caring.com, a leading senior care resource, has published findings from its latest Will and Living Trust Survey. The research study included over a thousand respondents and identified key factors among those with and without an estate plan. As a chief concern, only one in six millennials have a will, which is a slight decrease from Caring.coms 2017 survey. The 2019 Caring.com survey indicates that the older one gets, the more likely they are to have an estate plan. Two out of three seniors age 65 and older have a will or living trust. For adults ages 55-64 and ages 35-44, that number is 39% and 34%, respectively. Education and race are also key indicators of those more likely to have a will or living trust. According to the study, those with only a high school education are unlikely to have a will 28% of those with no college have a will, while 58% of Americans with post-graduate degrees have an estate plan. Among the largest racial groups, Hispanics are least likely to create an estate plan. To that point, 26% of Hispanic Americans have a will, whereas 31% of blacks and 45% of whites reported having a will. Nearly 80% of Americans live paycheck-to-paycheck and almost half of middle-aged Americans have no emergency savings, says Michael Hackard, an estate, trust, and elder financial abuse lawyer. So, its no surprise that were seeing such a high percentage of Americans who delay or avoid end-of-life planning. The study was led by SSRS, a full-service survey and market research firm. SSRS obtained telephone interviews with a nationally representative sample of 1,003 adults living in the United States. Interviews were conducted by landline (502) and cell phone (501, including 312 without a landline phone) in English and Spanish by SSRS Data Source from February 26 March 3, 2019. Statistical results are weighted to correct known demographic discrepancies. The margin of sampling error for the complete set of weighted data is plus or minus 3.7 percentage points. To review key findings from the survey including infographics and estate planning basics, visit https://www.caring.com/caregivers/estate-planning/2019-wills-survey/ ABOUT CARING.COM With millions of website visitors, Caring.com is a leading senior care resource for family caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. Applying cutting-edge technology to its social mission, Caring.com provides helpful eldercare content for caregivers and comprehensive senior living and senior care directories for the United States -- with more than 215,000 consumer reviews and a toll-free referral line at (800) 325-8591. Connect with Caring.com on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and/or YouTube. Newsom Eye in Tampa, FL It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award. We are extremely grateful to be a part of this community and all it has to offer. Newsom Eye is proud to announce that their South Tampa location has been honored with the 2019 Large Business of the Year Award. This award, presented by the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce, recognizes and honors the members who have demonstrated leadership, positive growth, development, and integrity in operation as a business, as well as a commitment to the community. Newsom Eyes third location has been in South Tampa for over six years and is proud to be a part of this growing community. It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award., says Dr. T. Hunter Newsom, Founder and Medical Director of Newsom Eye, We are extremely grateful to be a part of this community and all it has to offer. Newsom Eye recently moved its South Tampa office to larger facility to better accommodate their patients, located at 113 S Armenia Avenue. This new prestigious facility is 17,000 square feet, features multiple examination and diagnostic rooms, has a brand-new optical shop, and is well equipped for optimal patient flow and satisfaction. To schedule an appointment with T. Hunter Newsom, MD, or any of the eye care professionals at Newsom Eye, please visit NEWSOMEYE.com or call (813) 908-2020. About Newsom Eye Established in 2001 by T. Hunter Newsom, MD, Newsom Eye is a multi-specialty ophthalmology practice offering complete eye care, from routine eye exams to adjustable cataract surgery. The practice offers three clinical locations in Sebring, Carrollwood, and South Tampa. These locations are supported by onsite, fully equipped AAAHC accredited outpatient surgery centers located in the Sebring and Carrollwood offices. Newsom Eyes mission is to deliver top quality physicians and surgeons, supported by the most advanced research facilities and technology, while emphasizing customer care. Newsom Eye offers comprehensive eye care including adjustable cataract surgery, Newsom Eye custom LASIK, cornea, glaucoma, retina, oculoplastics, dry eye, routine eye exams, and optical services. Newsom Eye has been awarded numerous accolades, including Best Eye Surgeon by Tampa Tribunes Best of the Bay and Best Eye Doctor, Best Surgeon, and Best Eye Clinic by Sebrings Highlands Todays Peoples Choice. About South Tampa Chamber of Commerce Established in 1926, the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce is an association of more than 600 businesses, organizations and individuals working together to make the South Tampa community the best place to live, work, and play. Its active membership consists of local businesses, professionals, non-profits and government representatives who enjoy social activities and community involvement. In 2017, the South Tampa Chamber was recognized as a Certified Plus Chamber by the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, a designation held by less than 20 chambers in the State of Florida. http://www.SouthTampaChamber.org. Slayton Search Partners, a globally respected leader in retained executive search, is excited to announce that Nicole Egger has joined the company as Vice President and Principal. Nicole will be focused on supporting Slayton partners with engagements in the consumer group, while also developing and expanding her own client relationships. Joining the Slayton team is an honor and career highlight for me, shared Egger. This company is a true leader in the industry by making a real difference and growing in innovative ways. Ive admired the work Slayton Search Partners has accomplished in the past, and am thrilled to be a part of their future. Prior to Slayton, Nicole served as a Managing Consultant in Retail and Consumer Markets for a global organizational consulting firm. She was instrumental in growing that business, resulting in hundreds of thousands of added earnings. Nicole also amassed over 10 years of experience in recruiting at both the corporate and agency levels. Her expertise includes optimizing talent acquisition, client relations, change management, process improvement, vendor management, and candidate experience. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Florida. Nicoles background makes her a perfect addition to our team, commented Richard Slayton, Managing Partner & CEO of Slayton Search Partners. Her creativity, problem-solving ability, and strategic planning experience will be integral to achieving our organizational objectives. About Slayton Search Partners - http://slaytonsearch.com/ Slayton Search Partners is a top retained executive search firm, serving some of North Americas most recognized companies. Slaytons limit-less approach to executive search has made the firm the first choice of U.S. businesses and organizations who demand the best possible search results. By focusing on a structure that balances the size needed to do the job with the size needed to deliver personal attention and service, Slayton avoids restrictions that limit traditional search firms. This helps transform the relationships with our clients into a limit-less opportunity for high-quality solutions. Slaytons combination of highly experienced and focused search professionals, coupled with its record for attentive personal service, has made it one of the most highly-respected retained executive search firms in the country. Pat Peterson, a lifelong resident of South Carolina who volunteers for the American Red Cross, supports the Humane Society, and enjoys being near mountains and beaches, has completed her book Making of the Moon: an engaging work of fiction exploring the tension between Native American spirituality and secular culture. A Hollywood producer is determined to make a movie concerning a legend of the moon meant to stay hidden within the Native American nation. Ninety-eight-year-old Chief Zantos vows to keep their secret sacred within his culture, even if it means releasing a curse with hidden powers unknown to the white man. Published by New York City-based Page Publishing, Pat Petersons book is a thought-provoking work of fiction exploring the conflict between ancient spiritual values and the insatiable modern impulse to expose the unknown. Readers who wish to experience this engrossing work can purchase Making of the Moon at bookstores everywhere, or online at the Apple iTunes store, Amazon, Google Play, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or media inquiries, contact Page Publishing at 866-315-2708. About Page Publishing: Page Publishing is a traditional New York-based, full-service publishing house that handles all the intricacies involved in publishing its authors books, including distribution in the worlds largest retail outlets and royalty generation. Page Publishing knows that authors need to be free to create - not overwhelmed with logistics like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes, and the like. Its roster of accomplished authors and publishing professionals allows writers to leave behind these complex and time-consuming issues to focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. ***. 18.00 , .***. 20.00 ... Having Phillips Graduate Institute and Campbellsville University join forces is a natural move, Randy Christopher, chief executive officer for Phillips Graduate Institute, said. Both schools have a mission of investing themselves in their communities. We are very pleased with this cooperation. Phillips Graduate Institute (PGI), an acclaimed counseling education institution in Southern California, will initiate a new class of graduate students in Marriage and Family Therapy in August. The PGI Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) program in Chatsworth plans to partner with Campbellsville University in Kentucky to begin a new cohort in August 2019 pending final approval from the regional accreditor, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The core faculty, which has led the PGI program for decades, is poised to continue the legacy under this partnership. The Phillips Marriage and Family Therapy degree has a reputation of producing excellent licensed therapists, Dr. Ken Hollis, Campbellsville Universitys director for the Marriage and Family Therapy program, said. We look forward to supporting the same PGI distinctive faculty and the same robust curriculum. Continuing to operate at its current Los Angeles location in Chatsworth, PGI will provide service to its more than 5,000 alumni and support the California Family Counseling Center (CalFam). Both Campbellsville and Phillips have long histories of providing servant leadership training to students within their surrounding communities. Founded in 1906, Campbellsville University offers both graduate and undergraduate degrees to more than 12,000 students with programs in schools of business, music, social work, nursing, education, theology and arts and sciences. With the main campus located Campbellsville, the university operates satellite centers in five locations in the Bluegrass State including Hodgenville, the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. Besides the Los Angeles site in Chatsworth, Campbellsville University has a California center in Lathrop, near Oakland, and has been operating in Costa Mesa. Having Phillips Graduate Institute and Campbellsville University join forces is a natural move, Randy Christopher, chief executive officer for Phillips Graduate Institute, said. Both schools have a mission of investing themselves in their communities. We are very pleased with this collaboration. Phillips Graduate Institute was established in 1971 in the San Fernando Valley. The school has trained more than 5,000 family therapists across Los Angeles County and beyond. As 2019 commencement speaker and graduate Nadja Radmanovic described her experience at Phillips, We have learned so many things during our time here. But the most important thing we learned was compassion for each other. Phillips Graduate Institute is known for its emphasis on teaching through clinical experiential training, interfacing with local community and the in-house California Family Counseling Center (CalFam). Phillips alumni, along with Campbellsville University administrators and students, are thrilled at this new development in the schools history. The distinguished excellence of the Phillips education will continue under Campbellsville University, says Dr. Jose Luis Flores, PGI professor emeritus and now Director of the MFT Educators Consortium. The university will retain Phillips curriculum, Phillips three-prong teaching approach, and Phillips faculty to anchor its academic presence in California. Future students will receive a Phillips education with a Campbellsville University degreewhich, by the way, is how the school started. The California Family Study Center [the original name for PGI] was initially an off-campus degree program for Azusa Pacific University. Dr. Donna Hedgepath, Campbellsville University provost and vice president for academic affairs, echoes these sentiments. We are excited about Phillips Graduate Institute and Campbellsville University carrying on the Phillips legacy of educating servant leaders in Southern California. Campbellsville University and Phillips Graduate Institute have long been known for quality and professionalism. Our graduates demonstrate this every day with service to the community. Candidates are encouraged to apply, with courses anticipated to begin in August 2019. For more information please contact the office of enrollment services, at info(at)discoverphillips(dot)org or call (818)386-5660. Campbellsville University is a widely-acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university with more than 12,000 students offering over 90 programs of study including Ph.D., master, baccalaureate, associate, pre-professional and certification programs. The university has off-campus centers in Kentucky cities Louisville, Harrodsburg, Somerset, Hodgenville and Liberty with instructional sites in Elizabethtown, Owensboro and Summersville. Two additional sites are currently used in California, in Lathrop, near San Francisco, and in Costa Mesa. The university has a full complement of online programs. The website for complete information is campbellsville.edu. Campbellsville University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award certificates, associate, baccalaureate, masters and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the status of Campbellsville University. "We are very honored to publish a photo book honoring the First Lady's charitable work, her accomplished career, and overall elegance and style in the White House," says Post Hill Press Publisher Anthony Ziccardi. Independent publisher Post Hill Press is set to release a new book on the inspirational story of First Lady Melania Trump and the positive effect she has had on the country. The book, titled Melania Trump: Elegance in the White House, is scheduled to release this fall and will be distributed by Simon & Schuster. Melania's story and accomplishments, oftentimes written off or overshadowed in the media by the emphasis placed on her husband, show a tough, stylish woman who escaped a communist upbringing to find massive success worldwide in the fashion industry and eventually become the 45th First Lady of the US. Featuring over one hundred photos of the First Lady, the book highlights Melania's humanitarian and philanthropy achievements and showcases the overall elegance and class she brings to the Trump White House through her style, poise, and enthusiasm. We feel this will make a great gift for the holiday season and photos are available should any magazines or news outlets inquire for any covers or features. Melania Trump: Elegance in the White House releases from Post Hill Press on December 3rd, 2019. About Post Hill Press Founded in 2013 by a team of seasoned entrepreneurs and book industry professionals, Post Hill Press has successfully published a wide spectrum of books, with a focus on the categories of pop culture, business, self-help, health & wellness, current events, Christian, and conservative political books. Our entrepreneurial spirit makes Post Hill Press a nimble publisher, willing and able to move quickly and take advantage of opportunities in the marketplace. Our books and authors have appeared on The New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. A number of our authors have appeared on national media such as CNN, Fox News, The Doctors, and many others, as well as national radio and print outlets. Linda Highfield (on the right) is shown at a Critical Nursing Skills Training Program where she helped to educate local nurses in Vietnam. I have a passion for people. Giving back completes me, said Highfield, an Operating Room Nurse who recently retired from Ohio Health Hospital Systems. Helping others is a way of life for Linda Highfield. I have a passion for people. Giving back completes me, said Highfield, an Operating Room Nurse who recently retired from Ohio Health Hospital Systems. Highfields volunteerism began in 1992 when she donated her time and skills to Operation Smile, an international childrens charity that provides free surgeries for those born with cleft lip, cleft palate or other facial differences. Nearly 30 years later, Highfield has traveled the world, including Latin America, Asia and Africa, to help children born with a cleft lip (tear in the lip) or cleft palate (gap in the roof of mouth). When I go on these missions I serve as the Clinical Coordinator, which means I set-up screenings, arrange nursing teams, supervise the unpacking and arranging of medical supplies and help with the surgical schedule. Essentially, Im the first to arrive and the last to leave, Highfield conveyed. The grandmother of three knows the pain of a loved one being born with a health condition. Her grandson weighed one pound at birth. A lot of the kids we help on medical missions dont have access to world-class hospitals and doctors like we do. Volunteering is my way of helping to change that, said Highfield. As the country prepares to celebrate National Nurses Week, May 6-12, Highfield is gearing up for another medical mission. Im headed to Peru this month. Ill be training a clinical coordinator. Its important we share what we know and do good for others whether its across the street or across the world, said Highfield. I plan on volunteering until I cant walk or talk, she jokingly added. About Operation Smile: Operation Smile has provided hundreds of thousands of safe surgeries for those born with cleft lip, cleft palate or other facial condition. With more than three decades of expertise, Operation Smile creates solutions that deliver free surgery to people where its needed most. As one of the largest medical volunteer-based nonprofits, Operation Smile has mobilized thousands of medical volunteers from a wide range of medical specialties from more than 80 countries. Operation Smile engages public-private partnerships to advance health care delivery, train local medical professionals to provide surgical care for patients in their communities, donate crucial medical equipment and supplies, and increase access to surgical care so that everyone living with cleft is treated. Visit http://www.operationsmile.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. SGF's International Donor Egg Program Team Shady Grove Fertility (SGF), a leader in reproductive medicine, will be hosting a complimentary patient seminar in the UK to discuss their renowned International Donor Egg Program. Shady Grove Fertility Founder and UK Program Director, Michael J. Levy, M.D. will outline the donor egg treatment process and discuss the specifics about this integrated program that allows patients to access exceptional services provided locally by multiple, local clinics and the donor egg registry available only at SGF. Among the many benefits of SGFs program, couples and individuals choose a medically, genetically, and psychologically prescreened egg donor who is ready to cycle and donate, without the wait. SGFs donor process is anonymous but completely transparent, as the donor registry provides prospective donor egg recipients with a wealth of information about the donor, including, in many cases, adult photos. SGF, a pioneer in offering an IVF treatment financial guarantee for donor egg, makes treatment affordable through their exclusive Shared Donor Egg Program and Shared Risk 100% Refund Program for Donor Egg Treatment. With an IVF treatment guarantee, participants take home a baby or receive a 100% refund. Combined, these two programs offer patients up to six donor egg cycles for one flat fee at a 40 percent savings. SGFs Donor Egg Program provides patients with a highly effective treatment to overcome infertility, with a 60 percent clinical pregnancy rate per embryo transfer. Representatives from SGF will be onsite in the UK to discuss the benefits, success rates, and financial affordability of the program. Attendees of the free seminar will learn about traveling abroad for treatment, with only two trips required. In addition, a former SGF patient will share her experience and journey to parenthood through this unique program. The event will take place on 2 June 2019 at 17:00 - 19:00 GMT at Grosvenor House JW Marriot Hotel. Register for the seminar to learn more. "I found Dr. Levy to be very personable, professional, and knowledgeable. After years of suffering infertility issues I had a new sense of optimism right from my initial phone consult with Dr. Levy that I had finally found a doctor who actually listened to the fact pattern I presented him and could interpret this and finally make a plan to move forward ... and here I am 7 months after that consultation nearly 6 months pregnant! Also, I have to mention that as an overseas patient his whole team was very accommodating and made this as easy a process for me as possible. Highly recommend!" shares a Dr. Levy patient. About Shady Grove Fertility (SGF) SGF is a leading fertility and IVF center of excellence with more than 50,000 babies born and counting. With 35 locations throughout MD, PA, VA, D.C., GA, FL, and Santiago, Chile, we offer patients individualized care, accept most insurance plans, and make treatment affordable through innovative financial options, including treatment guarantees. More physicians refer their patients to SGF than any other center. Call 1-888-761-1967 or visit ShadyGroveFertility.com. SIUE School of Pharmacy student Brentsen Wolf. ... offer the patient hope of complete, lasting remission with permanent elimination of all cancer cells. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy student Brentsen Wolf has received a research fellowship for 2019-20 from the American Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (AFPE) Gateway to Research Scholarship Program. Wolf is studying DNA mutations in the tumor cells of breast cancer patients. According to Wolf, approximately 1 in 8 American women will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. In 2019, an estimated 268,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in the U.S., along with 62,930 new cases of non-invasive breast cancer. About 41,760 women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2019 from breast cancer. For women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer, besides lung cancer. DNA mutations in tumor cells make the disease worse, harder to treat and the outcome of treatment less optimistic, said Wolf, a Granite City native. We are looking for one specific type of mutation, a synonymous codon mutation, that can have multiple effects on tumor cell growth and function. The National Cancer Institute of the U.S. National Institutes of Health is allowing Wolf to study data from 70 patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas Breast Cancer Project. Our study involves testing for changes in more than 12 key tumor cellular processes, Wolf said. All the findings can be compared among 70 individual patients and will discover common patterns of genetic damage in the cancer cell that occur repeatedly among cancer patients. Wolf expects identification of the affected processes will generate scores of completely novel cancer biomarkers. The biomarkers will not only serve in cancer diagnosis and to improve the accuracy and reliability of prognosis, but also some of the biomarkers are likely to become completely novel targets for breast cancer treatment, Wolf said. This will result in a significant increase in the number of treatment options available for selection by physicians and patients. Several of the new targets are likely to act synergistically with exciting new treatment modalities, such as immune checkpoint inhibition, to improve the health of patients with breast cancer, and offer the patient hope of complete, lasting remission with permanent elimination of all cancer cells. This AFPE award is quite rare, and it truly highlights the quality of our program, said Ronald E. Worthington, PhD, professor in the SOP Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Wolfs research mentor. We must engage the interest of more Illinois students to consider pharmacy as a profession that goes beyond retail, with endless opportunities for jobs in fascinating scientific enquiry to improve health and possibly cure disease. We need to encourage prospective pharmacy students to understand that there is an ocean of exciting job opportunities in medical/scientific research, clinical trial management, and other sectors that go beyond retail pharmacy. My thanks go out to Dr. Worthington and the SIUE School of Pharmacy faculty for their support throughout these past three years, because they meant a lot to me, Wolf said. The AFPE award involves a $5,000 stipend for one academic year. The awards are given to individuals who, in the judgement of the scientific review panel, have met the following criteria: Recommended by a faculty member Demonstrated superior academic performance Submitted a proposed research topic that is relevant Provided a comprehensive mentoring plan Submitted letters of recommendation Have shown interest in scientific research The Gateway to Research Scholarship programs primary goal is to help students gain an understanding of the importance of research by enabling them to apply that knowledge to improve their clinical skills. The program provides a unique opportunity for talented PharmD and baccalaureate degree students to participate in a faculty-mentored research project. The Gateway to Research Scholarship also encourages students who have the aptitude and desire to pursue a career in research to continue their education in a PhD program. The mission of the American Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (AFPE) is to advance and support pharmaceutical sciences education at U.S. schools and colleges of pharmacy by awarding fellowships and grants. AFPE offers funding to first-year graduate school and pre-doctoral fellows in the pharmaceutical sciences, pre-doctoral fellowships in the clinical pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacy faculty development research grants. Todays pharmacists improve patients lives through the medication and education they provide. Dedicated to developing a community of caring pharmacists, the SIUE School of Pharmacy curriculum is nationally recognized as a model that offers students a unique combination of classroom education, research, community service and patient care. The School of Pharmacys areas of excellence include a drug design and discovery core; pediatric practice; chronic pain research and practice; and diabetes research and practice. As the only downstate Illinois pharmacy doctorate program, the SIUE School of Pharmacy is addressing the growing need for highly trained pharmacists in a rapidly growing field. SourceLink, an industry-leading data-driven marketing agency Our growth trajectory and the addition of Path Interactive has greatly enhanced our omni-channel portfolio and allowed us to move up in the rankings. Ad Age, the leading source of marketing and media data and analysis, released its 75th annual Ad Age Agency Report rankings. The list ranks the top agencies based on U.S. and worldwide revenue. For the 13th consecutive year, SourceLink, an industry-leading data-driven marketing agency, was ranked top 20 among more than 250 nationwide entries. Final results were released on April 29. This year SourceLink ranked 16th in the U.S. CRM/Direct Marketing Networks category, up one spot from 2018. SourceLink ranked 126th in the overall US Agencies category, jumping 23 spots from last year. The rankings are available at Ad Age Agency Report 2019. We are honored to rank among the top agencies in the business once again, says Hans Helmers, SourceLink President. Our growth trajectory and the addition of Path Interactive has greatly enhanced our omni-channel portfolio and allowed us to move up in the rankings. In early 2019, SourceLink announced the acquisition of Path Interactive, a top New York digital marketing agency. With the addition of a full suite of digital expertise SourceLink has enhanced their strength as a marketing powerhouse. About SourceLink SourceLink is a highly respected Direct Marketing agency headquartered in Chicago, Illinois that utilizes data intelligence and an omni-channel approach to maximize return on investment for clients through improved customer response and conversion. The company deploys client programs across the channels in which their customers and prospects are most responsive, including; direct mail, email, search, digital media, social media, and statements. SourceLinks expertise spans a variety of end markets, with an emphasis on financial services, healthcare insurance, retail energy and utilities, and retail. For more information, visit sourcelink.com. Attorney Matt Shaw, Shaw Family Law, P.C. - Elite Lawyer recognition The Elite Lawyer rating service recognizes attorneys who display a high level of competence in their practice and receive acknowledgments from their peers, community, bar, and committees. The Elite Lawyer Award assures each attorney chosen for the directory has been nominated by their peers for excellence in the practice of law. The honor is only given to lawyers who have met or exceeded the criteria of a rigorous, multi-phased selection process. It recognizes top-rated attorneys for their outstanding service in their specific area or areas of practice. From his firms office in St. Charles, Shaw serves clients throughout Kane, DuPage, Kendall, and DeKalb counties. After earning his undergraduate degree from Illinois College, he received his Juris Doctor from the Northern Illinois University College of Law. Prior to founding Shaw Family Law, P.C., he served as child support attorney for the Kane County Circuit Court Clerks Office and practiced in general and family law, founding three different law firms. With more than 30 years of legal experience, he maintains a 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating and has been recognized by Leading Lawyers and with the Distinguished Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. A skilled mediator, guardian ad litem, and legal author, Shaw also volunteers his time with divorce support groups and has been an experienced presenter of the Kids in a Divorcing Society family court program for parents. He is an active member of the Illinois State Bar Association, Kane County Bar Association, and DuPage County Bar Association. He was a charter member of the Illinois Family Support Enforcement Association and is a founding member of the American Academy of Certified Financial Litigators. Designed to assist potential clients in choosing an experienced legal professional to address specific legal needs, the Elite Lawyer tools and resources provide information on distinguished attorneys throughout the United States. Only the most outstanding and experienced attorneys receive the Elite Lawyer Award, which separates recipients from their peers when consumers use the directory to search for an elite-level attorney in their area. The Elite Lawyer Award speaks highly of how well each nominated attorney is perceived by their legal community. For more information about Elite Lawyer, or to become a member of the esteemed directory, visit http://www.elitelawyer.com. About Shaw Family Law, P.C. Attorney Matt Shaw, his attorneys, and dedicated staff effectively guide individuals and families through complicated legal matters, including divorce, the allocation of parental responsibilities, child support, civil union dissolution, adoption, orders of protection, and paternity. With compassionate client care and an intelligent approach, Shaw Family Law, P.C. works diligently to secure the results our clients deserve. To learn more, visit https://kanecountydivorceattorneys.com or call 630-584-5550. Femeng in Rwanda We have a commitment to developing young people into our engineers of the future, and we know as an industry we have a lot of work to do to help women in STEM achieve their potential. We are fortunate to be able to sponsor projects such as FemEng in Rwanda, In preparation for the June 2019 trip to Rwanda, a group of students at the University of Glasgow are putting a call out for companies to join Star Refrigeration in sponsoring the student-led project. FemEng Rwanda aims to increase awareness of women in engineering roles and relies completely on support from sponsors and donations. What started as a university project in 2016 has gained recognition from national newspapers and the Scottish Parliament. Now in its fourth and final year, the project sees eight Glasgow University female engineers travel to Rwanda to team up with eight young women studying STEM subjects at the University of Rwanda. This year the Glasgow team is preparing to give engineering workshops to over 1,000 primary school children across Kigali. Over the past three years FemEng in Rwanda has reached over 3,000 children across 25 schools. The project involves outreach workshops, organising site visits to engineering companies based in Rwanda and CV building sessions for the Rwandan students. The main objective is to encourage young people into further education, in particular STEM subjects. Applications for STEM degrees at the University of Rwanda have now increased by 100% thanks to the project. Morgan Rodgers, project leader of the FemEng group at the University of Glasgow said, We would like to say a massive thank you to Star for supporting the project for the fourth and final year. Without this support from local businesses we would not have been able to make such an impact. Were incredibly excited for the upcoming trip in June, but still have a long way to go to meet our fundraising target. If, like Star Refrigeration you are a company which support the aims of the project and can provide financial support or materials we could use, please get in touch. This University of Glasgow project is just one of many initiatives Star supports as part of a wider strategy to encourage more women into STEM fields and to close the gender gap. The company has staff members on the committee of the Institute of Refrigerations Women in RACHP Network, which organises training and networking events for women in the engineering industry, and each year Star supports International Women in Engineering Day. Dr Andy Pearson, Group Managing Director at Star Refrigeration, said, We have a commitment to developing young people into our engineers of the future, and we know as an industry we have a lot of work to do to help women in STEM achieve their potential. Giving back is important and holds lots of benefits for businesses. We are fortunate to be able to sponsor projects such as FemEng in Rwanda, and congratulate the Glasgow students for their determination and dedication to their cause. To contribute to FemEng in Rwanda 2019 visit the Go Fund Me page: https://www.gofundme.com/8egb73-femeng-in-rwanda. To find out more about the project go to: https://femengrwanda.wordpress.com/about/ . To find out more about Star Refrigeration visit: https://www.star-ref.co.uk. Kaylen Silverberg MD, Medical Director of Texas Fertility Center We firmly believe that every fertility patient has a story to tell. Texas Fertility Center is honored to give another deserving patient the chance to share her story on Capitol Hill for the benefit of all infertility patients Texas Fertility Center (TFC) is proud to announce Brittany Beckendorf is the 2019 recipient of the Advocacy Day grant. She received the grant after submitting her moving story about overcoming polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis to give birth to a healthy baby boy. As the recipient, this TFC patient and a guest will be able to attend RESOLVE Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., on May 15-16. The grant, which Ovation Fertility co-sponsored, required applicants to submit their fertility story in written, video or photo collage format. To make the final selection, an independent, 12-person panel with a background in infertility reviewed all the submissions. Brittany will attend RESOLVE Advocacy Day 2019 with a Texas Fertility Center doctor Brittany and her guest will attend RESOLVE Advocacy Day with Kaylen Silverberg MD, the medical director of TFC. Dr. Silverberg, who regularly attends this annual event, is renowned for being a champion of accessible fertility care. He believes that it is important for fertility specialists to do their part to change the way our country views infertility. According to Dr. Silverberg, We received a wonderful response to our request for Advocacy Day grant submissions. Each hopeful parent has a unique story to share about infertility. We can only provide one grant, but we can share the stories of all applicants in a different way. Brittany and I will bring their stories to share with the Texas Congressional delegation. During her trip to Washington, D.C., Brittany and her guest will attend lobbying workshops. Dr. Silverberg and other experienced advocates will lead these classes to teach attendees how to effectively lobby. After the training, Brittany and the other attendees will represent the infertility community and speak to members of Congress. We firmly believe that every fertility patient has a story to tell. Texas Fertility Center is honored to give another deserving patient the chance to share her story on Capitol Hill for the benefit of all infertility patients, Dr. Silverberg said. Read Brittany's story here Last years RESOLVE Advocacy Day grant recipient was Erin Steward, also a TFC patient. Her story about struggling to conceive her daughter and her efforts to have a second child secured her place as the 2018 grant recipient. About Texas Fertility Center Texas Fertility Center (TFC), one of the nations leading full-service infertility practices, provides advanced infertility and reproductive endocrinology services to patients throughout Texas, the southwestern United States and the Americas. Since 1980, TFC has been recognized nationally and internationally for outstanding pregnancy rates, leading-edge laboratory procedures and innovative research programs. For more information, please visit http://www.txfertility.com. The Keeper of Families: Jean Heringman Willacys Afghan Diaries (published by AuthorHouse UK) reveals the astonishing double life of an intrepid American woman, at retirement age, alternating a quiet existence in sleepy southern England, with her other life in vibrant and volatile Afghanistan. In a story never-before-told, The Keeper of Families is Willacys Afghan legacy of diaries, letters, and live tape recordings compiled and transcribed by her third daughter, Sue Heringman. The book is available for purchase at: https://www.amazon.com/Keeper-Families-Heringman-Willacys-Diaries/dp/1728380642/. At about 5 a.m....there is a very big explosion...we see more tanks on the move...further up the street, the palace is on fire. We are right in the line of the bombing and strafing by the planes. It is the longest day imaginable. An excerpt from The Keeper of Families Travelling back and forth, exporting the then-fashionable Afghan coats to the hippy generation, Willacy is witness to a brutal military coup, a society forcibly changed, and a refugee crisis of global dimensions unleashed. Fearing for her many friends, Willacy is transformed from enterprising businesswoman to staunch ally of an ever-growing number of Afghan refugees their Keeper of Families as they strive together to overcome the horrors of the Soviet-Afghan War and its aftermath. The book features: The shock of being an eyewitness to the communist coup, leading to the Soviet invasion The realities of living in a Soviet puppet state Stories from the refugee camps in Pakistan and from refugees in exile The different perspectives of women on Afghan life Willacys photographs and Afghan refugee childrens war drawings from a major art exhibition Heringman notes that The Keeper of Families is a story that, tragically, remains all too relevant, as Afghanistan still makes headlines, and one refugee crisis follows another. She says, I felt I owed it to my mother and her adoptive Afghan family to share all she had preserved of their life together, in her own narrative, that still resonates today. The Keeper of Families By Sue Heringman Hardcover | 6 x 9 in | 372 pages | ISBN 9781728380636 Softcover | 6 x 9 in | 372 pages | ISBN 9781728380643 E-Book | 372 pages | ISBN 9781728380650 Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble About the Author Sue Heringman, the third daughter of Jean Heringman Willacy, was Director of the Instituto de Ingles and the Adult Education Program at the University of Southern California in Madrid. A Spanish-English teacher and translator, her literary translations include works by well-known contemporary Spanish authors and the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. The compiling and transcribing of her mothers testimony is the dedicated work of many years. Heringman currently resides in Dorset, England, near Willacys U.K. home during the events described in the book. http://www.jeansafghandiaries.com AuthorHouse, an Author Solutions, Inc. self-publishing imprint, is a leading provider of book publishing, marketing, and bookselling services for authors around the globe and offers the industrys only suite of Hollywood book-to-film services. Committed to providing the highest level of customer service, AuthorHouse assigns each author personal publishing and marketing consultants who provide guidance throughout the process. Headquartered in Bloomington, Indiana, AuthorHouse celebrated 15 years of service to authors in Sept. 2011.For more information or to publish a book visit authorhouse.com or call 0800 1974150. For the latest, follow @AuthorHouseUK on Twitter. Enlivity Takes Home the Grand Prize at Startup Night NOLA Startup Night NOLA was a terrific experience with great feedback and valuable connections. It attracted a great crowd and a diverse range of startups. We enjoyed being a part of such a supportive, vibrant, and inclusive community, Gillian Isabelle, PhD, Founder and CEO of Enlivity On April 30th, INNOconf attendees, investors, industry leaders, and VIPs mixed, mingled, sipped, nibbled, and rocked out to New Orleans own Andrews Family Band during Startup of the Year NOLA at the Ace Hotel. Powered by Established (the talent behind TechCo), the convivial event showcased 36 early-stage startups from around the country and around the globe 23 of which boasted woman, minority, LGBT, or veteran founders and played host to an exhilarating live pitch competition featuring the five Startup Night NOLA finalists, which were contending for one of two fast-track spots to the 7th Annual Startup of the Year Summit in Memphis this fall and a $1,000 grand prize. After a friendly yet fierce competition full of close calls, two companies were able to emerge victorious: Enlivity, out of Boston, MA as grand prize winner and MyStrongHome, from Columbia, SC in second place. Gillian Isabelle, PhD, Founder and CEO of Enlivity, a medical nutrition company whose goal is to help make cancer treatment side effects better by providing patients with affordable, easy-to-use, over-the-counter products, called the event a terrific experience, specifically highlighting the great feedback and valuable connections [made] with other entrepreneurs, judges, and conference attendees. The conference and pitch competition attracted a great crowd and a diverse range of startups with a wide variety of products and business models. We enjoyed being a part of such a supportive, vibrant, and inclusive community, Isabelle explained. Joining Enlivity at the Startup of the Year Summit in Memphis will be the second place-winning MyStrongHome, a benefit corporation that works with its sister non-profit organization the Foundation for Strong Homes to develop programs that improve local access to critical resources needed to withstand storms, and which captivated our panel of judges with their dedication to community betterment. Rounding out the Top 5 was EnrichHER (Atlanta, GA & Washington D.C), a debt investment platform that connects female entrepreneurs with lenders to fuel the growth of women-led businesses; Hacware, (Dallas, TX) which identifies ones employees most likely to be hacked based on their habits; and TrayAway (New Orleans, LA), which saves hotels time and money by automating the room service tray retrieval process. Then, winning out the online masses, the Peoples Choice Award winner was Artunity (Valparaiso, IN) with a mobile app that lets individuals both donate to up-and-coming artists and possibly win a highly-valuable work of an already established artist. The panel of judges for the final event consisted of industry experts Shila Nieves Burney (Founder, Zane Venture Fund); Anne Driscoll (COO & President, Launchpad); Brian Zisk (Venture Partner, Exponential Creativity Ventures & Seed Investor, Chia Network); Anuradha Gali (Business Insights, Uber); and Kevin Lin (Co-founder, Twitch). The judges explicitly praised the diversified concerns these companies took on. Equally impressive as the actual companies competing was the remarkable scope of the topics these startups have created solutions for. From optimizing medical nutrition, to improving local access to critical resources, to making hotel management more efficient, theyre tackling problems that will make a difference in peoples lives. The whole evening was really awe-inspiring, said Frank Gruber, Co-CEO of Established. Early-stage startups should apply by May 20th for a chance to be one of the Top 100 Semifinalists that will compete for the Startup of the Year title with up to $100,000 in investments at the 7th Annual Startup of the Year Summit taking place in Memphis, TN this October. As part of their commitment to safety, Venture Construction Group of Florida (VCGFL) participated in the Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute (FCPTI) survey assessment on Feb. 21 at their Stuart office location. The Florida Attorney Generals Office hosted a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) course at the Martin County Sheriffs Office. FCPTI offers instructional classes for law enforcement officers on CPTED. Attendees include representatives from agencies throughout Florida. As part of their coursework, law enforcement stopped by local participating Martin County businesses to conduct crime prevention surveys and assess pros and cons of safety throughout the business property. This was a really unique program and we are honored to be a part of it. We will always say yes to advancing safety and preventing crime. This was an excellent opportunity to make sure our office is secure and safe for our employees and clients, says Sandra Lawson, director of operations, Venture Construction Group of Florida. The CPTED class teaches law enforcement personnel about proper design and effective use of the physical environment to achieve a more productive use of space while reducing the opportunity for crime. The class provides skills to deliver a comprehensive CPTED program to Floridas residential and commercial industries and local government. One of the assignments Is to visit different locations throughout the county and apply the skills they learned during a site survey, then present the findings. VCGFL office headquarters in Stuart served as a test site. The Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute (FCPTI) has provided training since 1982 with successful Florida practitioner designation programs in Crime Prevention, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, Elder Crime, School Resource Officer and Victim Services. The goals of FCPTI are to assist in making crime prevention a part of law enforcement throughout the state and to continually develop and implement new innovative programs. About Venture Construction Group of Florida Founded in 1998, Venture Construction Group of Florida (VCGFL) is a licensed general contractor and an award-winning leader in construction, restoration, renovations, roofing, storm damage repairs, and 24/7 emergency services throughout Florida, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Bahamas and the Caribbean. Specializing in commercial projects, VCGFL assists property management companies, condo associations, multi-family structures, hi-rises, retail/business plazas, government facilities, hotels and resorts with comprehensive general contractor services, restoration, mitigation, specialty construction, historical restoration, remodels, property repairs and rebuilds due to fire, flood, water, wind, hail, and hurricane damage. VCGFL holds leading industry awards including the Roofing Alliance MVP Award, Coatings Pro Contractor Award, Pro Remodeler Forty Under 40 Award, Qualified Remodeler Top 500 Remodelers Award, Qualified Remodeler Master Design Award, Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association S.T.A.R. Spotlight Trophy for the Advancement of Roofing Awards in Sustainability and Community Service. CEO Stephen Shanton is a proud member of the prestigious Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC). Entrepreneur Magazine hails YEC Consists of Some of the Most Well-Respected Minds in Entrepreneurship. With offices in Boca Raton, Ft. Myers, Naples, Orlando, Panama City Beach, Stuart, Tampa, San Juan, and Nassau, VCGFL is committed to operational excellence and exceptional customer service. VCGFL carries the industrys leading accreditations and is an exclusive certified National Storm Damage Center Preferred Contractor, Windstorm Insurance Network WIND Certified Umpire, WIND Certified Appraiser, WIND Certified Fellow, Certified Member of the United Association of Storm Restoration Contractors, Platinum Preferred Certified Contractor with the National Insurance Restoration Council. VCGFL is a proud member of Insurance Appraisal and Umpire Association (IAUA), Restoration Industry Association (RIA), Property Liability and Resource Bureau (PLRB), Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) Industry Members Association (EIMA), National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). VCGFL is a registered U.S. Federal Government Contractor and holds leading certifications including Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, Mule-Hide Legacy Contractor, Certified CertainTeed Contractor and Duro-Last Certified Contractor status. VCGFL credentials have been vetted and screened through independent third party Global Risk Management Solutions. For more information call 866-459-8351 or visit us online at http://www.VCGFL.com. About Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute (FCPTI) Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute (FCPTI) was established in 1982, and part of the Office of the Attorney General HELP STOP CRIME program. The Courses from FCPTI provide a comprehensive crime prevention training to Floridas law enforcement community, school resource officers, victim advocates, citizenry and industry. Learn more at http://www.fcpti.com. Media Inquiries: Jennifer Greenawalt Elev8 Consulting Group Ph: 386.243.5388 Em: jennifer(at)elev8cg(dot)com Web: http://www.elev8cg.com With this step, we are elevating attention to the services that allow us to focus on the market and our clients. We are also bolstering our executive team with vital leadership bandwidth and capabilities we need to achieve our financial goals and maintain our strong growth trajectory. West Monroe Partners, a national business and technology consultancy, today announced that it has created the position of chief administrative officer and hired Kevin Rooney to fill the role. Rooney, based in Chicago, reports to West Monroe President and CEO Kevin McCarty and is a member of the firms executive team. Previously, he was an executive partner with Gartner. Rooney is responsible for organizing a new Shared Services function that combines many of the firms existing departments. Under his leadership, the new function will link technology, strategy, and efficiency to enhance the employee experience and meet the organizations growth and financial objectives. He will band together and oversee the following: human resources operations and benefits administration, office operations, internal merger and acquisition support, ESOP and 401k administration, insurance administration, accounts payable & receivable, procurement and vendor management, travel and expense management, and real estate and facilities. Some of Rooneys first priorities include improving business processes, improving communications between corporate functions, and participating in the strategic planning processall of which are expected to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve employee engagement. With this step, we are elevating attention to the services that allow us to focus on the market and our clients. We are also bolstering our executive team with vital leadership bandwidth and capabilities we need to achieve our financial goals and maintain our strong growth trajectory, said Kevin McCarty, West Monroes president and CEO. Kevin Rooney has a commendable track record for helping organizations thrive in rapidly changing environments and for driving strategic growth by building a sustainable culture of inclusivity and innovation at all levels. With Gartner, Rooney advised C-level technology and business executives in various industries on strategy and innovation, equipping them to lead their organizations effectively through change and challenge. I believe that it is a leaders mission to build the culture, the technology, and the tools to best utilize the talent within an organization and to attract additional like-minded talent to drive the organization forward, Rooney said. I am fortunate to be joining an organization with such a strong and distinctive character and track record for success. I look forward to this opportunity to build and refine our Shared Services organization to enable the next phase of West Monroes growth and success. Prior to joining Gartner, Rooney was an entrepreneur and C-level executive. He co-founded Expert Interview, a first-to-market platform business that delivered interviewing as a service, helping hiring managers find and assess candidates and improve hiring quality. He was also chief strategy officer and chief information officer for American Access Casualty Company, a high-growth auto insurance company focused on the Hispanic market. Rooney began his career as a consultant with Arthur Andersen Business Systems Consulting. Rooney is chairman of Society for Information Management (SIM) Chicago, the premier IT networking group in Chicago and one of the largest SIM chapters in the country. Rooney joins an expanding C-suite at West Monroe. Earlier this year, the firm promoted three of its longest-serving leaders to C-level positions to deepen its investment in organizational growth: Doug Armstrong to Chief Operating Officer, Tom Bolger to Chief Strategy Officer, and Casey Foss to Chief Marketing Officer. West Monroe has grown from a 2002 startup to a firm of more than 1,100 employees with nine offices across the United States. In 2017, it announced plans to double its workforce over the following five years. The firm earned more than 25 awards in 2018 for its people-first culture. About West Monroe Partners West Monroe is a national business and technology consulting firm that partners with dynamic organizations to reimagine, build, and operate their businesses at peak performance. Our team of more than 1,100 professionals is comprised of an uncommon blend of business consultants and deep technologists. This unique combination of expertise enables us to design, develop, implement, and run strategic business and technology solutions that yield a dramatic commercial impact on our clients profitability and performance. For more information, visit http://www.wmp.com. If you are new to iQ you can schedule a demo and learn more about this opportunity. PSFK iQ - Where Innovators Turn for Research. Our professional-grade research platform is designed specifically for Retail and CX leaders who want to know whats next. Whether youre staying current on trends or need a real-time research partner to help you get ahead, count on PSFK iQ to deliver the info you need to make your next move. The idea for David Macaulays most recent book, Crossing on Time: Steam Engines, Fast Ships, and a Journey to the New World (his first with an autobiographical bent), rose almost phoenix-like from the ashes of another idea hed been working on that just didnt come together. Taking inspiration from a photograph on his studio wall, Macaulay, the author-illustrator of many acclaimed works, including Cathedral, The Way Things Work, and the Caldecott-winning Black and White, began a nearly six-year creative journey that culminated in his latest work about his boyhood trans-Atlantic journey from England to the U.S. and the steam-powered ship that made the trip possible. He spoke with PW from his home in Vermont, discussing the books genesis, as well as technology, boredom, and the benefits of walking a dog. Crossing on Time is a story within a story within a story. Actually, its more like three tales: that of your voyage across the Atlantic as a 10-year-old; the invention of steam power and harnessing it to move ships; and finally, the architectural story of the construction of the SS United States, the ship that carried you to your new home in the U.S., bringing it all full circle. Which subject did you set out to write about first, and can you talk about how you arrived at the organization for this book? You know, its hard to say. There was a great deal of sort of simultaneous development among each of the three threads. After I got into it, I realized what I was doing was Cathedral, except it is about a ship. I was doing The Way Things Work when I get into the engine room and talk about steam power. It was a kind of history that I hadnt actually done before, which was interesting. And I also ended up doing a kind of autobiographical thing, which Id never done before. I always shied away from that. I dont exactly know why, but it didnt feel like I needed to put myself into the stories I told or the books I did. But I would say it really began with the technology of the ship. I had been trying to work on a book about inventions, the whole idea of inventions and how people invent things. I just couldnt pull it together in a way that seemed to really work. It was too encyclopedic, and it was beginning to look like something between the internet and The Way Things Work! When you find yourself making a book that kind of replicates what you can already get online, you do think twice about pursuing it. Having sailed on this ship [the SS United States] and having a picture of this ship hanging in my studio for years, I was looking at it one afternoon, and I thought, why dont I try to do something about the ship because here Ive sailed on it, and basically I know nothing about it? I was not aware, until I began working on this book, about its history, about its storied career, about its record-breaking featsI didnt know any of that stuff! My connection with the ship was that of a 10 year-old who couldnt believe it was going to take five days to get across the ocean, from one world to the next. I looked the ship up online and started reading about it. I became aware of the conservancy [the SS United States Conservancy], the group thats trying to save the ship, keep it afloat and find a new home and a new use for it. So I contacted the conservancy and Susan Gibbs, granddaughter of William Francis Gibbs [the ships designer], and they were fantastic from the beginning. Thats when I made my first trip to the ship since 1957, five or six years ago, and it was amazing to be on it again. But now I was looking at it in a completely different way. I wasnt a tourist class passenger who was limited in where I could go on the ship. I could go anywhere and look at almost everything, from the funnels all the way down to the engine room, and the propeller shafts. It was fantastic! It was at that point that I really began to understand what an extraordinary feat this vessel was. The technology of today is very different from when you started your career in the early 1970s. Some would argue that technology is also shortening readers attention spans. What do you think todays digital-native readers will bring away from engaging with a book like Crossing on Time? I can only say what I hope they bring awaywhether they do or not remains to be seen. What Im basically offering is the opportunity to slow down and pick your way through something and turn the pages at your own rate and go back and look again. As opposed to online, where its very easy to get lost, Where did I start this search?! In a way, you kind of mimic the whole pleasure of an adult, not necessarily of a 10-year-old, taking a trans-Atlantic voyage. The whole thing slows you down. There was no rush, there was nothing else you could do before the airplaneto get from one continent to anotheryou had to sail, and you were made aware over that period of time of the distance. The problem [with screen technology] is that it hampers the ability for boredom to take over for a while. We all need to be bored. We need those let-down times where you just have nothing to do, and then you have to fill it with something. Youre going to think about things from way back when, youre going to see something in a way youve never seen it before, some little thing in your home or on your desk or whatever. And because youre bored, you may start doodling; who knows what little doors might be opened by that possibility. But if youd never let yourself become bored, and you never take your eyes off the screen, youre hurting yourself. I think people need the opportunity to have something thats totally simple, totally analog. Theres a stack of pieces of paper in Crossing on Time and in there, theres a journey. Im going to start at the beginning, Im going to work my way through it and control the pace of it, and at the end, if its worked, I will have learned something, I will have felt something, I will have experienced something. Have your processes and perception of your work shifted over the course of your career, in light of increasing technology use by audiences? I honestly think Ive kept pretty much the same approach. I always want to get deep into whatever the subject is and then thoroughly enjoy the editing process, both in terms of the overall structure of the book, the amounts of information I include, but also in the drawings themselves. Ultimately, its all about editing. I love being immersed in information that I find interesting. You know, I sort of regret that I wasnt in that situation more often in school. It wasnt until I was in college and studying architecture did I really began to think, This is where I belong. This is really killing me, but the demands here feel worth it. You use plenty of subtle and sometimes not-so-subtle of humor in your worke.g., wooly mammoths in The Way Things Work. In Crossing on Time, naval architect Gibbs seemingly plays with a toy-boat version of his ship America. Frames of the SS United States are represented as slices of toast, or a large work-gloved hand assembles a huge ocean liner. When in your creative process do you decide to add these playful details? Youve been working to make sure you have all the information, the basic stuff. But thats not that hard to do. Whats hard to do is make it accessible and entertaining at the same time. And Im talking about for myself, not even for the readers. Im trying to think of the earliest sketches for that particular drawing you just described where Gibbs is pushing his boat, and even as hes pushing this brand-new, shiny ship out, the Navy is painting it gray because thats the way war is, it just happens. I realized I could play with this, almost like a political cartoon. Im not thinking about it all the time, but Im always open for it all the time. Im always hoping that if I can keep sketching, Ill hit on something that will be another way of steering this factual information. I think from the beginning, from Cathedral even, whether youre sticking birds in a nest in the top of the cathedral or little things, like alligators and rats in the sewers in Underground, I cant help myself, frankly, because these projects seem to be going on forever once you get into them. You wonder if youll ever finish, and yet you have this deadline looming, and you have to play a little bit. The only thing you have to be careful of is not to play to the point where you undermine the credibility of the information. That always comes first. For the scene of the family at the end sitting at the table during Gala Night and the ships photographer there taking the picture, I was just going to take the photograph that I have and basically draw it and so on, and I thought, Ah, I cant do that. I dont just want to copy the photograph. So I turned the whole thing around, thats why you see the backs of their heads and you see the photographer who took the picture. Its the same sort of jovial, festive occasion and all that sort of stuff, unless youre my mother because she was sick the whole time, so another big meal with fancy French food was not really on the top of her list of things to do on board the ship! Is she alive to see this book? She is. My dad died, unfortunately, a year and a half ago, but he was the biggest fan of this book. I kept bringing it down to him, and I wanted so much to get this thing finished for him. And I got it almost to that point, as in the uncorrected proofs. There might have been a few more changes, and I took it down on the computer, on the laptop, and I took him through it page by page, and he was so enthusiastic. And then I gave a copy to my mother as soon as I got them, and she said she read it three times! So this is the first book of yours shes ever been in? Yeah. Its the first time Ive ever brought the family in specifically. You know, Im sure Ive developed characters and stuff like that based on family and people Ive known, but this was the first attempt to really capture the sense of the four of us, and to as good an extent as I could, what we looked like. Can you share with PW what subject currently has your interest piquedand whats on your drawing board now? Well, its consistent with the conversation that weve been having, and me talking about how important I think it is for people to take the time to look at things and notice things. So Im developing a small book, maybe even 32 pages, possibly a little more, about what it means to walk our dogs. Im taking one dog, and Im going on one walk. And the point is, the dog stops every 30 seconds and you have nothing to do. Youre just stuck there, holding the leash. But youre actually not stuck there. Youre given an opportunity and you just look around. We walk the same routes every morning and every afternoon and every evening, but this will be in the morning. And I see things differently. I see more each time I look. And I want to try to capture those two things. The dog and what the dog reacts to... and the more complex opportunities that walking the dog gives me. Its not an earth-shattering idea. Its probably not all that original, but its going to depend on how well I can get across the personality of the dog. And I dont want to show myself at all. Thats the other trick here. Its really the dogs story, and I am an accompanist on the dogs walk. And Im the one whos figuring out how that little piece of engineering Ive walked past a hundred times actually does the job it was put there to do. Its based on a hundred walks, but Im sort of trying to do it as a single morning, a single half hour- or hour-long walk. Which dog gets to star in the book? Oh, the oldest one. The 12-year-old. Shes a Labrador-poodle mix whose name is Stella. She occupies herself and gives me time to just look and think. Its all about slowing down. We make this little journey every morning, and it has the same impact on me as, not exactly as a five-day journey at sea, but it sort of sets you up for the rest of the day. Sometimes I talk to people, but for the most part its just me and the built environment. And Im looking at how these things work in the built environment. What they look like, why they look the way they do, weaving these things together is the challenge here, and I havent really figured it out yet. Ive gotten about halfway through, and Im thinking that the second half is really not working at all. Back to the drawing board! Then I turn around, and Im back on the computer trying to rework the text to see if the words will give me a clue as to where I should be going. Or Ill turn back see if, in sketching, I stumble on something. Its sort of digging in both realms, hoping for clues that will guide this process. It sounds like what youve said in a previous interview, that, as in life, you dont really know where youre going when you start out. Eventually you do have that storyboardbuilding a house without a plan would not be a good idea! You need that storyboard, but the words and the pictures evolve simultaneously. For me, I dont consider any drawing finally finished, say untouchable, unless theyre all finished. If I discovered something in a drawing half way through the book that means I have to change something that came before it, or rewrite a portion of the text, Ill do it if its an improvement. And thats why it gets a little crazy at the end, because you really wrestle with yourself: do I really have the time for this refinement? Is it that important? Generally speaking, it is, because you get to do this once and then its on its own. Im in that wonderful position right now of where Im having to choose what I think will be the most interesting examples, what I think will be the most interesting reasons why its worth, first of all, walking a dog. But secondly, and most importantly, paying attention to the world around you. Theres so much to be learned and you can teach yourself a tremendous amount. The thing you really need to learn is the importance of asking questions. And that takes a little bit of concentration, a little bit of time, and slowing down. There are wonders to be appreciated at all levels, but it wont happen unless we take the time to appreciate them. Crossing on Time: Steam Engines, Fast Ships, and a Journey to the New World by David Macaulay. Roaring Brook, $24.99 May ISBN 978-1-59643-477-6 An overflow crowd of trade publishing luminaries packed the auditorium of the Leo Baeck Institute in New York City last week for the third, and final, memorial service for Peter Mayer who, over the course of his long career, revived Penguin Publishing and cofounded the Overlook Press, which he continued to run until his death last May. Previous services were held at the London and Frankfurt book fairs, all arranged by his daughter, Liese. In his opening remarks, onetime Penguin chief executive John Makinson said that while it was certainly possible to hold more tributes to Mayer in other cities across the world, three felt about right. New York bookended Peters life, Makinson said, but noted that the Frankfurt Book Fair best reflected what he was about. Frankfurt, Makinson said, was Peters natural milieu, the heart of a European intellectual tradition within which he felt completely at home. Patrolling the stands of the book fair, buying English language rights to Dutch literary fiction or a puzzle book for kids, greeting old friends, swapping languages with ridiculous facility, cadging cigarettes at the annual Peter Mayer dinnerthat week in October somehow defined Peter. Other speakers' remarks were filled with the many anecdotes they had of life with Mayer. His daughter remembered getting into an argument with him while stranded somewhere in eastern Turkey. After they reached their destination, they managed to get kicked out of the guest house where they were stayingbut before too long, Liese said, the two were laughing over the events of the past 12 hours. And that, pretty much, was how every day with my father went. Adventurous, wild, scary, infuriating, but always so much bigger and more unforgettable than my days without him, Liese said. The following seven speakers spoke of Mayers charm, energy, chain-smoking abilities, and penchant for falling asleep during dinners, but also his devotion to publishing and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of publishers. Scholastic chairman Dick Robinson called Mayer the best global publisher of his generation and went on to recount his many visits to the Mayo Clinic with Mayer, which always seemed to involve an unusual incident or two. Carole Baron said while there are many adjectives to describe Peter, "common is not one of them." Tracy Carns, who worked with Mayer at the Overlook Press for 29 years, reflected on his wide-ranging tastes as well as his courage in standing firm on something he believed in, most notably his determination to publish Salman Rushdies Satanic Verses despite death threat from the Ayatollah Khomeini. Mark Gompertz, now at Skyhorse, said he knew Mayer since he was a kid observing: I always wanted to be like him when I grew up. Mayer, Gompertz said, "had more lives than a cat," but through it all he was a man of a letters and a dedicated family man. Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb speaks before a crowd of more than 200 people during an event to announce that Sweden-based Saab Global Defense and Security Company is opening a $37 million facility in the Purdue University-affiliated Discovery Park District in West Lafayette, Indiana. Saab will conduct its contribution to the production of the U.S. Air Forces T-X pilot training program and other aerospace projects at the site. (John Underwood/Purdue University) WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. Global defense and security company Saab announced plans Wednesday (May 8) to locate a new U.S. manufacturing operation in Indiana. The facility, located at Discovery Park District Aerospace on the west side of the Purdue University campus, will support production of the U.S. Air Forces next-generation T-X jet trainer and create up to 300 new jobs, with hiring starting in 2020. The expansion is a fundamental part of the companys strategy to grow its U.S. industrial and technology base. Saab also will collaborate with Purdue University to expand Saabs U.S.-based research and development within possible areas such as sensor systems, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. A photo gallery of the announcement is available here. Indiana has long been a national leader in manufacturing, and todays announcement demonstrates how the Hoosier state continues playing a key role in propelling the industry forward by attracting investment from around the globe, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb said. Saabs decision to fuel its United States growth in West Lafayette is a testament to the states pro-growth business climate, strong aviation and defense sectors, and commitment to fostering innovation by collaborating with our renowned universities and businesses to solve 21st century challenges. The Stockholm-based company will invest $37 million to locate and build an Indiana-based workforce in West Lafayette. Saab will construct and equip a facility to manufacture a significant portion of the Boeing T-X advanced pilot training aircraft, which will help train future U.S. Air Force pilots for generations to come. Saab is both a partner and supplier to Boeing on the program. The U.S. Air Force selected in September 2018 for the T-X pilot training program, and plans to purchase 351 jets from Boeing in the first phase. In Indiana, Saab will produce major aero structures for the Boeing T-X, which features an all-new aircraft designed, developed and manufactured by Boeing and Saab. This is a historic moment for Saab, said Saab President and CEO Hakan Buskhe. After careful consideration, we have chosen West Lafayette, thanks to the visionary leadership of both the state of Indiana and the world-leading Purdue University. Todays announcement is a part of our growth strategy in the United States, and deepens our relationship with the U.S. customer. We see great possibilities here for this facility and our partnerships. Construction of the facility is expected to begin in 2020 at the Discovery Park District Aerospace to support the rapid Boeing T-X production rate demanded of the program. Saab expects to begin hiring for assembly operators and airplane mechanics as well as for logistics, manufacturing engineering, and administration and management roles the same year. Discovery Park District is part of a $1 billion long-term project to transform the west side of the university campus, creating a preeminent environment for intellectual discourse and high-tech commercial enterprise. The district is being developed by Purdue Research Foundation in partnership with Browning Investments LLC for the master planning and development of the district. The Saab project is the sixth major project announced in the past two years for Discovery Park District. Purdues strong history in aircraft research and development makes Saabs choice a natural fit, said Purdue President Mitch Daniels. But the even tighter fit is with our Discovery Park District concept. Saabs investment will bring more cutting-edge research partnerships for our faculty, more high value employment and internship opportunities for our graduates, and more jobs and economic vitality for our neighbors. The Boeing T-X advanced pilot training program offers an all-new system purpose-built for the U.S. Air Force with aircraft, ground-based training and support designed together from the start. With suppliers including Triumph Group, General Electric, Collins Aerospace and L3 Technologies, the Boeing T-X will be more than 90 percent made in America and is expected to support more than 17,000 U.S. jobs. Initial operating capability of the T-X advanced pilot training aircraft is expected by the end of 2024 with full operational capability projected for 2034. With operations on every continent, Saab continuously develops, adapts and improves new technology to meet customers changing needs. The company has over 17,000 employees and annual sales of $3.49 billion (Swedish Krona [SEK] 33.2 billion) in 2018, of which roughly 23% is reinvested in research and development. This collaboration involves many partners at many different levels who all came together to help make this momentous project happen, said West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis. We all felt that the entire Greater Lafayette community will benefit from Saabs presence well beyond the economic development, but also the community enrichment that Saab employees and their families will bring to our area and Discovery Park District. The 176-acre Discovery Park District Aerospace, which was named an Indiana Certified Technology Park in 2015, is one of the few in the country that houses an active airport adjoining property that can support public and private aerospace research facilities. The district also is home to Purdues Zucrow Laboratories, known for jet engine research, Rolls-Royces jet engine component facility and Schweitzer Engineering Laboratorys electrical engineering research and development facility, currently under construction, called SEL Purdue. We welcome Saab to Greater Lafayette, said Lafayette Mayor Tony Roswarski. This has been an important and rewarding collaboration between our cities, the county, Purdue University and the state of Indiana. Our partnership helps us meet the needs of our growing community and good employment opportunities. It also helps provide the best environment for our companies to grow and prosper. Tippecanoe County is excited to welcome Saab to the community, said Tippecanoe County Commissioners President David Byers. Not only did the city of West Lafayette, city of Lafayette and Tippecanoe County financially support the project, but the Purdue Research Foundation is providing the initial research funding to help support graduate students and office space for Saabs first West Lafayette employees. That just shows you how our community truly collaborates to ensure our economy stays strong now and into the future. Subject to approval of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) Board of Directors, the IEDC will offer Saab up to $3.9 million in conditional tax credits and up to $1.15 million in training grants over two phases based on the companys job creation plans. The IEDC also will offer up to $200,000 in conditional tax credits from the Hoosier Business Investment (HBI) tax credit program based on the companys planned capital investment in Indiana. These incentives are performance-based, meaning the company is not eligible to receive incentives until jobs are created and qualified capital investment is made. Indiana partners in the project include the cities of West Lafayette and Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Greater Lafayette Commerce and Purdue Research Foundation, all of which offered local and county tax abatements as incentives to bring Saab to the area. About Saab Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions within military defense and civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents around the world. Through innovative, collaborative and pragmatic thinking, Saab develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers changing needs. About Purdue Research Foundation The Purdue Research Foundation is a private, nonprofit foundation created to advance the mission of Purdue University. Established in 1930, the foundation accepts gifts; administers trusts; funds scholarships and grants; acquires property; protects Purdue's intellectual property; and promotes entrepreneurial activities on behalf of Purdue. The foundation manages the Purdue Foundry, Purdue Office of Technology Commercialization, Purdue Research Park and Purdue Discovery Park. The foundation received the 2016 Innovation and Economic Prosperity Universities Award for Innovation from the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities. For more information visit Purdue Research Foundation. About IEDC The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indianas economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 15-member board chaired by Gov. Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov. Media Contacts: Conal Walker (Saab) +44 7747 857 997 conal.walker@saabgroup.com Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018, presscentre@saabgroup.com Erin Sweitzer (IEDC) 317.296.2556 or esweitzer@iedc.in.gov Cynthia Sequin (Purdue) 765.588.3340 or casequin@prf.org Peninsula will look to win its third consecutive CIF-SS Open Division title Friday when it takes on Westlake, which beat the Panthers twice during the regular season. VINCE KNOWS WHAT YOU WANT BETTER THAN YOU DO, WWE IN SAUDI ARABIA, THE RAW OVERRUN AND MORE You can send us questions for the PWInsider.com Q and A at pwinsider@gmail.com. Ratings have been slipping and Vince McMahon decided that the answer was to give us way too much of him on Raw, followed by pretty much making the brand split useless. Please, please explain to me how this makes sense. Ive got nothing. Seriously, I have nothing. If he sees the issue as being in matchups and not character development and better storylines? Well, Ive got nothing. So... the solution to falling ratings is to double down on the storyline whos gaping logical hole (SuperStar Shakeup... with no explanation as to whos making said moves, or why) and dilute the entire brand split to the point its basically not a thing anymore? So what happens if a 5th wild card shows up in a week? Are there consequences? Is it 2 separate shows or not? Even marketing to kids, once they pass 3 years old, need a reason to care about the story being told. If theres no consequences to wins, losses, or anything anybody does, whats the point to the show at this point? Tack on 2 of the most talented teams in pro wrestling, not actually fighting but reenacting scenes from Revenge of the Nerds (gee... I wonder who thought that was just hilarious...? I mean, I did too when I was 12 and saw the movie for the first time... 35 years ago...), and at this point I just have to ask: what the hell are we watching here? Anyway, my real question: so Cole says the first real defense of the WWE title on Raw in over 3 years, so the night after Mania, the champion vs champion match, wasnt a real title defense? I get were not supposed to remember things, however that was under a month ago... so what that not a real match, or just a screw up nobody bothered to correct? Because Im guessing that line wasnt just pulled out of thin air. You hit the nail on the head. THIS is why fewer people are watching WWE, and that is all the fault of Vince McMahon, no one else. I really believe the answer is in fixing the bad storytelling and pushing people that the audience cares about and in many cases finds cool. That is lacking right now. He thinks he knows what you want better than you do. I think hes wrong. Simple question about Candice Lerae. She's been on NXT for awhile, but doesn't seem to wrestle on TV all that much and isn't really at the top of the women's division. Is there a reason why? Her work seems solid from what I've seen. Shes really good, no doubt. Her role has been in the top storyline between her husband, Johnny Gargano, and Tommaso Ciampa. Its never a bad thing to be in the top storyline. Now that it has ended, I would love to see her get more of a push for her own work. To follow up yesterdays question, do you have a problem with WWE running in Saudi Arabia? When it happened last year, I gave them a pass. They had a deal and there wasnt a lot of time to make changes. When they ran again, it started to feel dirty. Now? Shortly after the Saudi government killed 37 men under extremely dubious circumstances, proving nothing has changed from when they murdered journalist Jamal Khashoggi last year, yes I have a problem with it. They have every right to do business there but is comes across as in really poor taste to me. With all of the new TV money that they have coming next year, I would have liked to have seen them make a stand and walk away from the Kingdom, like many other companies did. For the past several months or so, RAW hasn't had a significant overrun past the 11:00 hour. Is this a result of the recent trend of declining ratings during the last hour or so of the show? As we reported months ago on the site, the overrun was done away with by USA. Given how bad the drop from hour one to hour three has become, its a good call on their part. *As a note from a recent column, Brock Lesnar has been tested twice by the authority overseeing UFC fighters. Thanks to my buddy Dan Israel, I stand corrected! You can send us questions for the PWInsider.com Q and A at pwinsider@gmail.com. If you enjoy PWInsider.com you can check out the AD-FREE PWInsider Elite section, which features exclusive audio updates, news, our critically acclaimed podcasts, interviews and more by clicking here! A graduate from NU-Qs inaugural class, Sara Abdullah Al-Saadi, spoke to the schools latest and largest graduates at a ceremony on Northwesterns campus in Doha. In her remarks to the 68 graduating seniors, Al-Saadi told them that NU-Q had an incredible impact on the person I am today; this school has given me a world-class education, lifelong friends, and the tools to go on and make a difference. In introducing Al-Saadi, Everette E. Dennis, dean and CEO, noted that while at NU-Q, Al-Saadi was one of our most active and accomplished students, so no one is surprised by her considerable achievements since that time. Al-Saadi is the director of public diplomacy at Qatars embassy in Washington D.C. and concurrently a candidate for a J.D. degree at Columbia Law School. As a student at NU-Q, she served as president of the student body and won the Education City Presidents Award, the highest honor accorded to a student. Northwestern University President Morton Schapiro, who has attended every NU-Q graduation, told this years class that their work on research projects, publications, films, videos, and documentaries have been recognized across the globe for their excellence. The only word I can think of to capture your achievements is astonishing. Also attending the ceremony was Northwestern Provost Jonathan Holloway, along with other members of NU-Qs Joint Advisory Board including His Excellency Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari, state minister with the rank of deputy prime minister; His Excellency Hassan Abdullah Al Thawadi, secretary general of the Supreme Committee on Legacy and Delivery; Samir Mayekar, a member of Northwesterns Board of Trustees and president of the Northwestern Alumni Association, and Mayan Zebeib, chief communication officer of Qatar Foundation. Welcome to Railway Gazette. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of these cookies. You can learn more about the cookies we use here. OK (CNN) A fungal plant disease from Asia has been spreading across banana-growing areas of Latin America and the Caribbean since the 1960s. New research suggests that climate change is aiding the spread of this highly destructive plant infection. Black sigatoka, commonly known as "black leaf streak," can reduce the fruit produced by infected plants by up to 80%, according to a study published Monday in the biology journal, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B. "The disease is a fungus," Dan Bebber, study author and a senior lecturer in microbial ecology at the University of Exeter, told CNN. "It attacks the leaves of the banana plant, which means the plant can't make as many bananas." First reported in Honduras in 1972, black sigatoka has since spread throughout the region, arriving in Brazil in 1998 and the Caribbean islands of Martinique, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the late 2000s. In August 2004, black sigatoka made its first appearance in Puerto Rico. The disease now occurs as far north as Florida, the study indicates. The fungal disease is virulent against a wide range of banana plants and increases production costs with fungicide necessary to maintain crop yields, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. "Currently, the disease is controlled by fungicide sprays. Banana growers in Costa Rica, for example, have to spray 40 to 80 times per year," said Bebber. "This is very expensive, costing the country around $100 million per year." Climate change is known to significantly alter the distribution of species in the wild, yet plant responses to historical climate change are poorly understood. The new study combined experimental data on black sigatoka infections with detailed climate information over the past 60 years to understand how rapidly the spread has occurred in Latin America and the Caribbean. What did the model show? Infection risk has increased by 44.2% on average across banana-growing areas of Latin America and the Caribbean since the 1960s through the current decade. This was due to greater wetness plus altered temperature conditions favorable to the pathogen. While increasing banana production and global trade have probably facilitated black sigatoka's establishment and spread, climate change has made the region increasingly conducive for plant infection, Bebber and his co-authors wrote in the study. "We don't know exactly what will happen in future," Bebber told CNN. In places where the climate gets wetter, the disease will get worse, but in places that get drier over time, the disease won't be as bad, though there careful water management will be needed since bananas are "thirsty plants." In short, bananas and the plethora of foods that make us happy banana breads, pies, cereals and puddings will not disappear from the Earth, but they certainly may become more difficult to cultivate and also more expensive for consumers. "Our main message is that bananas are expensive to produce but cheap for us to buy," said Bebber. "It's important that we pay a fair price for bananas, so that growers can invest in sustainable production and research to make sure we can continue to enjoy them in the future." This story was first published on CNN.com "Climate change is helping spread a fungus that attacks bananas" Four B-52 bombers are being deployed to the Middle East in response to what administration officials said earlier this week are threats of a possible attack by Iran or allied fighters on American troops in the region. Two of the bombers are expected to leave Tuesday from Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, arriving at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on Wednesday, CBS News national security correspondent David Martin reports. White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the U.S. was deploying a bomber task force and the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. Central Command region, an area that includes the Middle East. Bolton said the movement was in response to "a number of troubling and escalatory indications and warnings." He didn't provide details, but said the U.S. wants to send a "clear and unmistakable" message to Iran that "unrelenting force" would meet any attack on U.S. interests or those of its allies. Chinas inability to protect its own backyard was reinforced in 1996 during the Third Taiwan Strait Crisis. The perhaps-not-coincidentally-named aircraft carrier USS Independence was one of two dispatched to Taiwan. Independences partner USS Nimitz sailed through the strait while Independence loitered nearby, sending Beijing a pointed message that the Chinese Communist Party certainly received, embarking upon a decades-long modernization program to prevent that affront from ever happening again.[19] Mahanism (with Chinese Characteristics) Which brings us to the books principal argumentthat Chinas leaders have adapted the doctrines of naval strategist Alfred Thayer Mahan to suit Chinas purposesthat is, maritime access beyond the island chains. Red Star Over the Pacific builds a powerful framework for analyzing Chinas neo-Mahanian model using the full scope of national power, including economic, diplomatic, cultural, and legal means.[20] Mahan is credited as the most influential naval thinker of the 19th century.[21] An evangelist of sea power, he was ahead of his time, famously writing that "the world has become smaller. Positions formerly distant have become of vital importance."[22] How much truer his maxim is today. Mahan recognized prospective naval power was not only about numbers of hulls or even the size or displacement of ships. Rather, it was about the sinews of global connectivitymaritime communications and access. Holmes and Yoshihara use the full scope of Mahans trinity of commerce, political willpower, and military force to frame Chinas maritime expansionism. Communications and access stimulate commerce, which generates wealth that can be reinvested to further expand naval communications and access, forming a virtuous cycle of sea power. These peacetime elements of sea power constitute essential sources of Chinese prosperity, spurring economic growth that has powered Chinas rise to regional and world eminence.[23] Mahanism is a doctrine to found, support, and increaseas well in peace as in warthe sea power of a country.[24] It offers national prosperity and destiny founded upon a program of mercantilist imperialism.[25] If heady talk of national destiny reeks of 19th century nationalism, youll understand why Mahanism has fallen from favor in many modern liberal democracies.[26] Its difficult for those with only a cursory familiarity with Mahan to square his ideas with the rules-based international order the U.S. founded after the Second World War. But for Chinawhose ancient concept of tianxia (literally all under heaven) is more congenial to extractive imperialismMahan makes a lot of sense.[27] China wants to shape a world consistent with its particular neo-authoritarian modela model that gives it veto authority over other nations' economic, diplomatic, and security decisions, reminiscent of tianxia, a modern tribute system, with all roads literally leading to Beijing.[28] What China Wants and What We Can Do About It China seeks nothing less than to displace the United States as the preeminent power in the Pacific, if not the world. It intends to make a new order that expands the reach of its state-driven economic model.[29] To achieve this vision, China's leaders have characterized the first two decades of the 21st century as a "period of strategic opportunity," during which Xi Jinping's Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation can be realized.[30] Red Star concludes by arguing there must be major changes to Americas maritime strategy in the Pacific if Xis vision is to remain unrealized. The first step is recognizing that China is already an unhyphenated peer competitor.[31] American naval power should be recalibrated around this threat. American naval strategists must relearn the tenets of Mahanism still useful in the 21st centuryaccess and communication through alliance, collective defense, and free trade shored up by a powerful navy. The authors do not subscribe to the determinism of Graham Allisons Thucydides Trap.[32] They do advise Western strategists to temper the sinister, without quashing [the] benign.[33] They recommend an American maritime strategy that approximates a new Cold War, setting up tripwire forces and layered defenses that might forestall Chinas advance beyond the first island chain. Steadfast, firm, patient pushback, they write, could induce Beijing to postpone its ambitions. They leave us with the almost wistful thought that, if it postpones them long enough, internal change could engender more healthful attitudes toward regional politics.[34] Hedging and hoping for internal change may not sound like much of a strategy, but the best strategists know strategy is, above all, the art of the possible. And to take a final thought from Graham Allison that isnt disputed, The rise of a 5,000-year-old civilization with 1.3 billion people is not a problem to be fixed. It is a conditiona chronic condition that will have to be managed over a generation.[35] Even the weekend missile test while raising tension must be read as a signal of Pyongyangs intentions. Despite the hype that surrounded the April 2018 summit of leaders from South and North Korea, the first anniversary of the meeting did not attract much attention and was ignored by North Korea. South Korea had sought to use the anniversary as a way to resuscitate the stalled denuclearisation and the peace processes, yet North Korea showed no signs of compromise, instead demanding Seoul to break with the U.S. and to forge ahead with the Panmunjom declaration and the a subsequent agreement struck later by the two leaders in Pyongyang. From Pyongyangs perspective, Seouls sincerity with the detente depends on its willingness to defy U.S. sanctions. North Korea has also sent a strong message to Washington, saying that it will give the U.S. a deadline to the end of the year to change its stance on negotiations or else there would be undesired consequences from a change of path. Pyongyangs decision to launch a short-range ballistic missile on Saturday confirms the downward trend. North Koreas threat to abandon dialogue with the U.S. and South Korea has raised much concern that Pyongyang will return to nuclear and missile testing, the degree of which may invite a U.S. preventive attack given the talks would have failed. North Koreas test of a short-range guided or cruise missile in mid-April, along with Kim Jong-uns signal of a new way to deal with Washington in his 2019 New Year Address, shows North Korea is ready to walk away from negotiations for good if necessary. However, while the chance of North Koreas provocation is increasing, it would be an overestatement to claim that 2017s fire and fury is back. Kim is still invested in diplomacy, shown by his recent trip to Russia, his good personal relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, and his continued call for South Korea to improve bilateral relations. On the charm offensive, Kim Jong-un meeting with Vladimir Putin last month (Photo: Kremlin.ru) Kims charm offensive is driven by his calculations that South Koreas President Moon Jae-in is an independent, ethno-nationalist, and leftwing leader, who is ready to say no to Washington if U.S. demands hurt South Koreas interests. Traditionally, rightwing South Korean presidents have often prioritised ties with Washington and not as invested in inter-Korean relations as much as leftwing ones. This is not to say that North Korea never increased tension during leftist presidencies. The 2006 North Koreas nuclear test that occurred during the Six-Party Talks and one year before the 2007 Inter-Korean summit with President Roh Moo-hyun is a case in point. However, despite the anxiety after the test, the then North Korean leader Kim Jong-il defused the tension immediately by pledging to resume the nuclear negotiations. North Korea also did not couple the 2006 test with an explicit threat to turn Seoul into a sea of fire or to attack the United States. Compared to tone taken by North Korea during and after its 2013 and 2016 tests, in which Pyongyang threatened to carry out a preemptive strike and to launch an all-out offensive to fight against the America and its allies, North Koreas signals in 2006, 2013 and 2016 greatly differed. Every nuclear or missile test will increase tension, yet it is the signals sent to accompany such tests that determine North Koreas utmost intentions. So when it comes to Saturdays ballistic missile launch, North Koreas signalling appears in line earlier scenarios, with Pyongyang refraining from outright threats to the U.S. and South Korea due to the ongoing detente with Moon. If in the coming months North Korea carries out missile tests under the satellite clause without sending a clear and explicit threat towards Seoul and Washington, the message it wants to send is that Pyongyang is still waiting for the U.S. to change its negotiation stance and for South Korea to push ahead with inter-Korean projects independent of U.S. pressure. Pyongyang will not want Moon to lose ground to domestic conservatives or to lose his inside track on U.S. North Korea policy. Plus, Kim certainly wants to reap the economic benefits of Moons North Korea policy so will not seek to delegitimise Moons approach with outright provocations. North Koreas fragile testing moratorium is a reminder that there needs to be a breakthrough in negotiations with Pyongyang to address the nuclear problem pragmatically. Sticking to comprehensive and total rollback of North Koreas nuclear program is an unwise strategy since such a stance only solidifies the present gridlock. Instead, the U.S. should seek to lift some sanctions in exchange for Pyongyangs acceptance to a permanent moratorium and to limit its program. Such a move will give Moon necessary leeway to build more trust between Washington and Pyongyang to preserve the detente. Thanks to Dr. Nicholas Miller, Assistant Professor of Government at Dartmouth, for his help with the article. Khang X. Vu is a Master's candidate at Dartmouth College, where he focuses on East Asian politics and U.S. East Asia policy. This article appeared originally at Lowy Institute's the interpreter. The Chinese Navy recently held a military parade in the 70th anniversary of its establishment in Qingdao and invited 13 countries including Russia, Japan, India, Vietnam, and Australia to participate in maritime inspections, including most of the neighboring countries that have disputes over territorial waters with China. President Xi Jinping emphasized in the military parade that Nations should use consultations to resolve matters, and should not easily resort to force or threats of force." "Nations should consult on an equal basis, improve crisis management mechanisms, step up regional security cooperation and push for proper settlement of maritime disputes," Xi said. This shows that China has tried to use this activity to express to neighboring and regional countries that China's military growth would be not to threaten other countries but to maintain regional and global security development, in an effort to eliminate international concerns about China's military growth. Chinas activities to express friendship with the countries participating in the military parade are reflected in several aspects: Beijing has invited almost all countries that have sovereignty disputes with China to participate in military parades, such as Brunei, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, Myanmar, and India. The first four countries have frictions with China over the South China Sea issue. Japan and India have sovereignty disputes with China over the East China Sea and the China-India border. Compared with 2009, Japan and other six countries participated in the Chinese navy celebration ceremony for the first time. Indian warships traveled to Qingdao through the Taiwan Strait. Under normal circumstances, China must protest this action. But this time India was not protested by Beijing. On the contrary, the Indian Navy was assisted by the Chinese Navy during its sail to Qingdao. Beijing had not invited the French warships because they had sailed through the Taiwan Strait. This shows that Beijing deliberately showed goodwill to India. The closest ally of China, Pakistan, has not sent warships and representatives to participate. The reason may be the escalation of the conflict between India and Pakistan. India has mobilized the three armed forces of the sea, land and air to form a close-up of Pakistan, and imposed strict sealing on the Pakistani waters so that Pakistan cannot break through to China. The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force frigate "Liangyue" hangs the "Rising Sun Flag" and enters Qingdao Port. The "Rising Sun Flag" used to be the flag of the old Japanese Imperial Navy. It was considered a symbol of militarism by Chinese and Korean nationalists, but Beijing did not negatively render or raise objections through the media. Last year, the "Abe-Xi Meeting" in Beijing reached an agreement on mutual exchange of ships. China and Japan hope to promote mutual trust through mutual defense exchanges. Before the military parade, Xi Jinping met with representatives of many foreign navies and stressed that China pursues a defensive national security policy and advocates the establishment of a new, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable new security concept, striving to show that China would not use force to resolve disputes and has the intention to defend peace, although it develops its military power". In addition, the Chinese Navy also held a seminar on the so-called "Building a Community of Maritime Security Destiny." The size of the military parade was less than that of the military parade held in the South China Sea in April 2018. Under the fog, the CCTV news channel did not have a live broadcast of the military parade. It only showed some video clips in the afternoon news program. Several shots of Xi Jinping on the military parade were also broadcasted quite briefly. The reason may be because Beijing intends to keep a low profile in front of foreign military representatives, avoid stimulating the nerves of neighboring countries and prevent the growth of domestic nationalist sentiments, thus avoiding the friendly and peaceful atmosphere of commemorative activities being diluted. Chinas military expansion and its strength have caused more and more vigilance in neighboring countries, especially the United States. In recent years, China has built island reefs in the disputed South China Sea, and its military activities have become more frequent. Chinas naval strategy has changed from coastal defense in 1949 to offshore waters defense (from integration to depth) after 1978, and then to offshore defense and offshore protection in 2015. This has caused the United States and its allies to be uneasy and preventive against China. In order to reduce the concerns of neighboring countries and the international community on China's overseas military strength, the Chinese official media stressed in the report on the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Navy that the purpose of the Chinese Navy's overseas operations is peaceful, such as escorts in the Gulf of Aden and Overseas evacuation, etc. In 2017, China announced the launch of the "Support Base" in Djibouti. However, the Beijing official has not yet called it a "military base." Compared with the countries that sent ships to participate in the Chinese naval parade 10 years ago, there were seven countries absent, namely the United States, Pakistan, New Zealand, France, Brazil, Canada and Mexico. The United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Brazil are worried about the rapid growth of China's military power and are unwilling or inconvenient to send warships. According to reports, the French Navy had initially sent a "Greek Moon" frigate to participate in the Chinese military parade but did not appear in the end. Canada, like the United States, only sent school-level officers to participate in the commemoration activities, which may be related to the arrest of the China Telecom giant Huaweis executive Meng Wanzhou. It led to the fall of Sino-Canadian relations. Although China invited almost all neighboring countries to participate in the maritime military parade, Xi Jinping also issued a friendly coexistence speech, highlighting Beijing's efforts to create a peaceful and friendly atmosphere, and not intend to show muscles and express a willingness to fight for strength. Because of the unstable relationship between the United States and China and the growing fears of neighboring countries, Beijing is not willing to further stimulate and provoke the United States and to make the surrounding countries more uneasy and resentful. However, with only one military parade to declare its "peaceful development intentions," Beijing is unlikely to receive any substantial results, which allow the United States and neighboring countries to reduce their fears of China's military expansion. Experience has shown that the words of Xi Jinping will be in no case followed by Chinese actions. Especially in the issues of the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait, Beijing will not change its hitherto aggressive behavior. Tao Peng, Ph.D., is an editorial writer and a senior columnist for World Journal in New York. He obtained his doctorate in political science and sociology at the University of Munster in Germany. It was about 10:45 p.m., in her front yard, when Mary Evans got official word that her husband, Deputy James Evans, had been shot and killed a casualty in one of the most daring and bloody bank holdups and subsequent chases in Southern California history. But long before the official notice, Mary knew something was wrong. She had first heard about the holdup when she checked in after completing her nightshift driving an RTA bus. An office worker told her about a Norco bank holdup, where someone was killed. Not my husband, thought Mary Evans. Then the office worker added: Your baby-sitter called and your husband never showed up to pick up James (their five-month-old baby). Mary knew he never missed picking James up at the baby-sitter's and often stayed for dinner with the baby-sitter and her family who lived nearby and were family friends. Then I knew something was terribly wrong, recalls Mary. North Korea is a major military threat to the US and its Asian allies, but exactly how powerful are its nuclear weapons? An earth scientist explains why it's hard to answer this question. This week marks the one-year anniversary of the Trump administrations withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), otherwise known as the Iran nuclear deal. Washington was right to withdraw from the multilateral agreement at the time. One year later it remains the right decision, but there is still plenty of talk about rejoining the deeply flawed JCPOA. Lets take a moment to remind people again of the problems with the agreement, and of Irans continuing belligerence. --Sunset Provision: The JCPOA did not end Tehrans runaway nuclear program, it only slowed it. For instance, most major uranium enrichment restrictions begin to sunset, or expire, at the 10-year mark, allowing Iran to resume this nuclear work in 2025. --Ballistic Missiles: The Iran nuclear deal did not capture Tehrans dogged development of ballistic missiles -- which are a perfect delivery vehicle for a nuke. Tehran continues to flout U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231, which bars test launches of nuclear-capable missiles. This is an ominous sign of Irans future intentions. --Inspection Regime: The JCPOA doesnt allow for "anytime, anywhere" inspections. International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors arent allowed to visit undeclared facilities without permission or credible evidence of concern. Tehran has also put military bases off limits. This doesnt instill confidence in the ability to verify Irans compliance. --Possible Military Dimension: As part of the nuclear deal, Iran was supposed to come clean with the IAEA on the possible military uses of its earlier nuclear weapons work in order to facilitate monitoring and verification of the pact. Tehran didnt cooperate, which makes the International Atomic Energy Agencys job IAEA in Iran even more difficult. --Nuclear Archives: Thanks toIsraels masterful exfiltration of secret Iranian nuclear documents from Tehran, we now know a lot more about the nefarious intent behind Irans nuclear program. According to the Institute for Science and International Securitys read of this archival material, Iran planned to build five nuclear weapons in the 10-kiloton range for delivery by ballistic missile, build a parallel uranium enrichment program, and conduct an underground test. --NPT Compliance: Iran had a secret nuclear weapons program that was at a minimum inconsistent with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, if not a violation of it. When its covert program was exposed, Tehran falsely claimed that its nuclear program was for peaceful power purposes. Can Iran be trusted on any nuclear agreement? --Bad Behavior:While not part of the JCPOA, one hope was that the nuclear agreement would moderate Irans conduct by reducing Tehrans international isolation. It hasnt. Iran is still a state sponsor of terrorism through the likes of Hamas, Hezbollah, and its own Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. It supports Yemens Houthi rebels, Afghanistans Taliban, and the Bashar al Assad regime in Syria. Indeed, this week Washington, reacting to intelligence warnings, dispatched U.S. forces to the Persian Gulf to deter Tehran from a possible attack on American interests, including U.S. forces in the Middle East. The Trump Administrations post-JCPOA maximum pressure campaign is having a dramatic effect on Tehran. For example, a drop in Irans oil exports, its main foreign revenue source, due to sanctions has cost Tehran an estimated $10 billion. As a result, the unpopular, repressive regime is under intense pressure from the Iranian people for reforms that answer their unmet economic and social needs. Tehran also has less money in its government coffers for its international adventurism. Iran is desperately fighting to hold the JCPOA together due to the advantages it potentially offers Tehran. The failure of other JCPOA parties to support U.S. efforts to fix the agreements defects is deeply disturbing. Even if Iran is believed to be abiding by the JCPOA, Tehran has much of its pre-agreement nuclear infrastructure in place and the intention to preserve its nuclear know-how. Iran thus remains on the threshold of being a nuclear-armed state. The Trump administration was right to leave the JCPOA due to the agreements faults and Irans unwillingness to renegotiate it --not to mention the ongoing alarm over Irans international conduct. Allowing nuclear weapons to get into the hands of Tehran, a rogue regime that supports terrorism and holds the United States, Israel, and other partners in enmity is still unthinkable, and it must be prevented. If possible, we need a new agreement that does just that. Dr. Peter Brookes is a Heritage Foundation senior fellow and a former deputy assistant secretary of defense. The views expressed are the author's own. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale Buy real estate. Find a great selection of commercial real estate, manufactured homes, timeshares and more for Sale in US and Canada. Search Real Estate , We're sorry, this article is not currently available HOME > Teen Mom > Teen Mom 2 Jenelle Evans dropped from 'Teen Mom 2' following husband David Eason's killing of dog By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 05/08/2019 has been fired from 2 in the aftermath of her husband David Eason's shocking decision to shoot and kill one of their dogs after it allegedly nipped their daughter last month. ADVERTISEMENT MTV has decided to cut all ties with Jenelle following David's act of violence against the family pet, a French bulldog named Nugget, in light of the animal-cruelty accusations, Us Weekly "MTV ended its relationship with David Eason over a year ago in February 2018 and has not filmed any new episodes of 2 with him since," an MTV spokesperson told Us in a statement. "Additionally, we have stopped filming with Jenelle Eason as of April 6, 2019 and have no plans to cover her story in the upcoming season." Not only have people been pressuring MTV to drop Jenelle from the cast ever since news of the killing surfaced, but 2 advertisers have also reportedly boycotted the show. Jenelle, 27, has starred on 2 since the spinoff premiered on MTV in 2011. Reports of the incident surfaced on April 30, when a source told Us that David had "shot" and killed Nugget because the pooch had "snapped at Ensley." David then shared a video on social media on May 1 of the French bulldog appearing to nip the couple's two-year-old daughter Ensley in the face. Ensley, however, appeared okay and her skin was reportedly not broken. "I don't give a damn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s--t at all. I'm all about protecting my family, it is my life's mission," David wrote. "Some people are worth killing or dying for and my family means that much to me. You can hate me all you want but this isn't the first time the dog bit Ensley aggressively. The only person that can judge whether or not an animal is a danger to MY CHILD is ME." Jenelle confirmed speculation David had killed the dog hours later through an emotional Instagram post and statement to Us. "At this time, we are dealing with this rough situation. I want to focus on what's best for me and my kids," Jenelle said, adding that she and David were not on speaking terms. "[Divorce is] in thoughts, but nothing is finalized... I'm too hurt and upset at the fact he did that. It's taking time to get over this whole situation, and it's making me feel he's very cruel and doesn't have a heart on many ends." FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! The former 16 & Pregnant star added, "David killed my dog Nugget because he snapped at my 2-year-old, Ensley. He doesn't put up with that and those are his beliefs. He just took her and shot her in the woods... about two acres away from the house." In addition to Ensley, Jenelle is also mom to son Jace, 9, and Kaiser, 4, from her previous relationships with Andrew Lewis and Nathan Griffith, respectively. Following the incident, multiple advertisers reportedly pulled out from 2 -- including Chipotle, TWIX, Dove Chocolate and animal treats company Greenies. The brands tweeted that they have a zero-tolerance policy for animal cruelty and chose not to be associated with the MTV series as a result. MTV had already dropped David from the show in February 2018 because he had posted homophobic tweets. Producers were therefore having a difficult time filming footage of Jenelle considering her husband could not be a part of the show, Us reported. Jenelle, however, is still appearing on Season 9 of 2, which airs on Monday nights at 9PM ET/PT on MTV. ADVERTISEMENT About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON GOOGLE NEWS Jenelle Evans has been fired from 2 in the aftermath of her husband David Eason's shocking decision to shoot and kill one of their dogs after it allegedly nipped their daughter last month.MTV has decided to cut all ties with Jenelle following David's act of violence against the family pet, a French bulldog named Nugget, in light of the animal-cruelty accusations, Us Weekly reported "MTV ended its relationship with David Eason over a year ago in February 2018 and has not filmed any new episodes of 2 with him since," an MTV spokesperson told Us in a statement."Additionally, we have stopped filming with Jenelle Eason as of April 6, 2019 and have no plans to cover her story in the upcoming season."Not only have people been pressuring MTV to drop Jenelle from the cast ever since news of the killing surfaced, but 2 advertisers have also reportedly boycotted the show.Jenelle, 27, has starred on 2 since the spinoff premiered on MTV in 2011.Reports of the incident surfaced on April 30, when a source told Us that David had "shot" and killed Nugget because the pooch had "snapped at Ensley."David then shared a video on social media on May 1 of the French bulldog appearing to nip the couple's two-year-old daughter Ensley in the face. Ensley, however, appeared okay and her skin was reportedly not broken."I don't give a damn what animal bites my baby on the face. Whether it be your dog or mine, a dog is a dog and I don't put up with that s--t at all. I'm all about protecting my family, it is my life's mission," David wrote."Some people are worth killing or dying for and my family means that much to me. You can hate me all you want but this isn't the first time the dog bit Ensley aggressively. The only person that can judge whether or not an animal is a danger to MY CHILD is ME."Jenelle confirmed speculation David had killed the dog hours later through an emotional Instagram post and statement to Us."At this time, we are dealing with this rough situation. I want to focus on what's best for me and my kids," Jenelle said, adding that she and David were not on speaking terms."[Divorce is] in thoughts, but nothing is finalized... I'm too hurt and upset at the fact he did that. It's taking time to get over this whole situation, and it's making me feel he's very cruel and doesn't have a heart on many ends."The former 16 & Pregnant star added, "David killed my dog Nugget because he snapped at my 2-year-old, Ensley. He doesn't put up with that and those are his beliefs. He just took her and shot her in the woods... about two acres away from the house."In addition to Ensley, Jenelle is also mom to son Jace, 9, and Kaiser, 4, from her previous relationships with Andrew Lewis and Nathan Griffith, respectively.Following the incident, multiple advertisers reportedly pulled out from 2 -- including Chipotle, TWIX, Dove Chocolate and animal treats company Greenies.The brands tweeted that they have a zero-tolerance policy for animal cruelty and chose not to be associated with the MTV series as a result.MTV had already dropped David from the show in February 2018 because he had posted homophobic tweets.Producers were therefore having a difficult time filming footage of Jenelle considering her husband could not be a part of the show, Us reported.Jenelle, however, is still appearing on Season 9 of 2, which airs on Monday nights at 9PM ET/PT on MTV. According to TMZ, the Columbus County Sheriff's Office in North Carolina and Animal Control have initiated a joint investigation into allegations of animal cruelty against David, who allegedly slammed the dog against the back deck of their home before shooting him in the woods to death.Law enforcement told the website that Animal Control officers did pay an initial visit to Jenelle's property but they were scared off by "No Trespassing" signs and a pit bull on the porch. TEEN MOM 2 MORE TEEN MOM 2 NEWS << PRIOR STORY 'The Voice' Results: Top 8 semifinalists revealed, Adam Levine's entire team wiped out NEXT STORY >> 'The Bachelorette' spoilers: Alleged 'The Bachelorette' frontrunner reportedly eliminated by Hannah Brown Get more Reality TV World! Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook or add our RSS feed. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT - - - Porterville, CA (93257) Today Partly cloudy early followed by increasing clouds with showers developing later in the day. High near 55F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Rain likely. Low 42F. SSE winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a half an inch. Every week, we select the best police reports from Athens and the University of Georgia for our website and newspaper. Today, were selecting the best of this year so far. From alien abductions to a nude dude, here are our favorite blotters from January to now. Drinking coffee and saving the environment do not have to be mutually exclusive passions. In todays go-go-go culture, convenience often tops both judgement and efficiency, giving caffeinated beverage drinkers more opportunities than not to contribute waste for the sake of time. Here are a few environmentally friendly and wallet-friendly tips for coffee lovers. The digital audience knows the difference between healthy suggestions, which are welcome, and a downright breach of privacy, which is abhorred. Illustration: Uttam Ghosh/Rediff.com Dont get creepy, is what consumers are telling brands, withdrawing their loyalties if they find them crossing the line on privacy, according to the Adobe India Brand Content report. While majority of the consumers surveyed said this, those most irked by insensitive personalisation belonged to the 35-49 age band. If 2018 was all about getting to know the consumer to give her what she wants, the year 2019 is likely to be about walking the line between proximity and intrusiveness. The digital audience knows the difference between healthy suggestions, which are welcome, and a downright breach of privacy, which is abhorred. And brands that get the balance right, will win their trust. The study found that two-thirds of consumers in India are more likely to make an unplanned purchase from a brand, if the digital content is personalised. Personalisation is welcome, but not when it gets offensive. A winning customer experience can take many forms, but the most common element in every brands success story is personalisation. "Brands that can strike the right level of personalisation will forge stronger connections, resulting in brand loyalty and growth, said Sunder Madakshira, head of Marketing, Adobe India. Millennial and Gen X consumers are also engaging with brands across multiple devices. Device usage peaks for the millennial at an average of 11 hours daily and minimum two devices are used by all age groups, with Indians accessing multiple screens up to 70 per cent of times. If the content is contextually relevant and the experience is pain-free, brands will find repeat consumers across devices, the report said. Consumer reaction to personalisation depends on the stage of the purchase cycle that he or she is in, said Shrenik Gandhi, co-founder and CEO of White Rivers Media, a digital marketing firm. While some amount of personalised advertising is important to ensure that one doesn't waste money in showing ads meant for consumers in Delhi to those in Bengaluru, it is important not to shock a consumer in a way that will impact their purchase decision, he added. Both Indian users and advertisers are about a year away from fully understanding the issues as currently the entire ecosystem is trying to work out consumer habits, Gandhi added. Social media platforms continue to be a major source of data for brands in India. Majority of consumers share social media content on a weekly basis, with over 50 per cent of millennial users sharing daily. Most Indians surveyed are also comfortable sharing their behavioural, geographic, demographic and personal information with brands, as they feel this helps them enjoy a better customer experience, noted the report. The survey noted that 95 per cent of consumers express confidence in at least one social media channel, with YouTube and Facebook emerging as the most trusted mediums overall. Younger consumers (18 to 34 years) trust YouTube the most, while middle-aged and elderly consumers (34+ years) rely more on Facebook. Interestingly, YouTube celebrities are one of the most trustworthy influencers for consumers between 18 and 34 years, with their word being preferred over that of family and friends. "In contrast, elderly consumers (50+ years of age) value and trust content from a family member or a friend, added Madakshira. Online news sources are the second-best method for consumers to source and share information. Given the huge reach and access that these news aggregator apps now have in the country, the segment has seen a surge of new entrants with the Mukesh Ambani led Reliance Jio with JioNews being the most recent debutant. Five years ago, a digital ad strategy would have been primarily about social media, but now brands need to understand that while users still spend time on social media, the consumption pattern has changed. "So there is a need to factor in how much time across different times of the day do users spend on content, social media, news etc for brands to chart out a complete personalised ad experience for the users, said Gandhi. ? - , , , , , , " live" : live. , . - , , . , . . , , , , , . , - . , - ? : , . : ? : ... : . : , , , . , , , . : , , - ? : -. . . , , . . . : , , ? - : , , . : ? - : , - . , - . , . , , , , , , , , - - . : , ? , - , , ? - : , , , . , - . , , , . : . - : , , , . , , .. . . . : , - . , - , , , . , ? : , , ? , , -. : , , . : . : , , - . , ... : , , . . , . , , , , , , , . . : . , ... : , , . : , , . : , ... : . ? , . , , ? : , . , , ... : , . . : . : ? : , ? , , ... : , . , , , . , , . : ? : , -. , . : , ? ? : (...) , . , 1. , ... : - , - ? : ? : , ? : , . : ... : , 40%, , , . : ? : , . , . . : , . : , . , - . , ... : , ? : , . ? , . : ... : , , , 107 ... : ? : ... : 50:11 : ... . . , , ... : , ? : , . : ? ? : . : , , . . : , , ... : , - ? : . : , ? ... : , , , . : ... : . - : , , . , ... : ... : , , 70-71%, . , , , ... : , , . - , . ? : , . - : , , , , . , , ... : , ... 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Is there a likeness between the characters from Ved Vyas's timeless epic and those prancing about on the political proscenium? Saisuresh Sivaswamy finds out. With Priyanka Gandhi characterising Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi as Duryodhana and Bharatiya Janata Party national President Amit Anilchandra Shah hitting back by saying that the nation will know who Arjun is on May 23, characters from India's greatest epic are being bandied about in election season. Is there a likeness between the characters from Ved Vyas's timeless epic and those prancing about on the political proscenium? Let me see... Blinded by love? Did the blind king's over-indulgence towards the Kauravas ultimately lead to the bloody denouement on the battlefield of Kurukshetra? As king, could he have upheld Dharma with a firmer hand than he did, ensuring that he did not remain a helpless bystander as the siblings fought a bloody war to the end? Could the Election Commission of India be considered guilty of a similar charge -- of not doing what is within its powers to ensure a level playing field, of not enforcing compliance with the Queensberry rules? Pater familias Doomed to forego the throne for himself, Bhishma it is who makes Hastinapura the impregnable fortress it becomes. Yet, for all his military prowess and moral fibre, he is unable to prevent the cataclysmic events that unfold in the royal court, nor is he able to opt out of a battle his heart doesn't lie in, spending his last days on a bed of arrows. The arc is similar to that of Lal Kishenchand Advani, the man who built up the BJP into the election war machine it is today, but who could never get the top job for himself. In the autumn of his life the pater familias of the Sangh Parivar knows things are awry, but is helpless in preventing them. Focus, focus, focus Everyone likes to believe they have focus like the legendary archer, but the fact is that very few actually hit the target. One man has shown himself worthy of comparison, by the manner in which he has executed his party's election plans from 2014. Amit Anilchandra Shah may not have referred to himself when he responded to Priyanka Vadra's jibe at the prime minister, but the BJP's electoral record under him shows that he can be compared to Arjun. Strong man It is no secret that it is the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh that adds muscle to the BJP's outreach. The saffron party's electoral fortunes depend on the extent of enthusiasm, the mobilisation mounted by the RSS. In 2014, the RSS threw itself heart and soul behind Modi's prime ministerial campaign, and has since been solidly behind this government. RSS Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat's contribution to the BJP's electoral fortunes -- contrasted with the lacklustre campaign by his predecessor K S Sudarshan for the NDA in 2004 -- make him a clear choice as Bhim. Voice of morality Yudhistra is the upholder of Dharma, the man who does not lie. Aeons after Ved Vyas immortalised him in the epic, Yudhistra remains the gold standard for morality in public life. Rather like former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh who, years after demitting office, remains the voice of righteousness and probity. Of course, even the great Yudhistra has his Ashwathama Hataha moment, showing that no man is blemishless. The charioteer In the epic, as the two sides gird up their loins, a key question facing them was: On whose side will Krishna fight? The Lord offers them a choice: His entire army, or just himself stripped of divinity. The Kauravas opt for numbers; the Pandavas for quality. And as a mere mortal, Krishna guides the course of war with his strategy. There is such a man who, sans any grass-roots support or a political base qualifying as an army (which forces him to take the Rajya Sabha route), remains the prime minister's key advisor, strategist, and confidant. If NDA 3 assumes office, how will Arun Jaitley be rewarded for his valuable inputs? Hell hath no fury Thank god no one shares Draupadi's traumatic experience as queen in exile or the humiliation in royal court, for which she swore she will not tie her hair till she was avenged. But the rage and determination to see a dynasty fall is very much evident in Rahul Gandhi's challenger in Amethi. Smriti Irani couldn't fulfill her wish in 2014, will she do so this time rond? Long-lost brother The Mahabharatam is ultimately a story of family ties -- some vibrant, some torn asunder. And of the latter, it is the story of Karna that is the most evocative. Born into a royal family but abandoned as a child, he finds respect and prestige in the enemy camp, for which he remains a loyal soldier, even fighting his real siblings. Shades from the life of the member of Parliament from Sultanpur, now shifted to Pilibhit? Varun Gandhi's presence in the BJP camp is a telling story on the rifts within contemporary India's first family. Mother Superior In the epic Kunti shepherds her five sons (and attempts to shepherd her first-born too, but without luck) through vicissitudes. It was she who tells her son Arjun, who returns with the bride he won in a swayamvar, to share the prize equally with his brothers -- none of which apply to Sonia Gandhi. But the same maternal love and affection you can see in the way she has allowed her first-born to step in as Congress president after her, and make a dash for the top job not once, but twice. She is very much the wind beneath Rahul Gandhi's sails, ensuring that things go as per the grand plan. To clarify,saying this doesn't automatically make her son a Pandava. Arnab Uvacha Every major event needs a narrator. And for 18 days, Sanjaya, conferred with divya-drishti, conveys the story of the war to the blind king Dhritarashtra. Rather like how India's most vocal television anchor spins the story of the great battle to his loyal viewers. Just as history is the account by the victor, so are the great tales the voice of the narrator. And the greatest of them all is Arnab Goswami, who enthralls his audience night after night with tales of a great king, a treacherous enemy, a bloody war and a spectacular victory at the end of it all. 'If the BJP becomes the new Congress, then an Opposition within will naturally emerge -- from the right, not the left,' points out Mihir Sharma. Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com It seems an old and insightful joke about the Bharatiya Janata Party is still in operation. The joke is sometimes expressed as a cartoon, sometimes in words: But essentially the punchline is that every extremist in the BJP becomes a moderate in time. Not by changing their views, but simply because they are all inevitably displaced from their place on the far right when someone even more extreme pops up to attract attention. Thus, Atal Bihari Vajpayee gave way to Lal Kishenchand Advani; Advani to Narendra Damodardas Modi. Note the progression: Vajpayee spoke words that could lead to riots, but he was always far away from the actual events that would spark them, such as the Babri Masjid demolition. Advani was present at the events, but reacted to them with public shame rather than pride. Modi instead responded to such events with defiance and pride, as in the election campaign after 2002. Step by step, ever more extreme. Many supposed the next step in this sequence would be Amit Anilchandra Shah. Modi's rhetoric may have been dangerous back in the 2000s, but at least he was never seriously accused of homicide. Shah was famously so accused (and then acquitted six months after Modi took power). But the next step seems actually Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Ajay Singh Bisht. The prime minister has spoken of needing a '56-inch chest' to defend India; but it is the UP CM who brings with him a palpable aura of danger -- not surprising given that he emerged from the politics of eastern UP, and that he long had his own stormtroopers in the Hindu Yuva Vahini. The BJP, however, is not content. They have, in one fell swoop, rendered Bisht also a moderate, by handing the historically safe seat of Bhopal to Pragya Singh Thakur, accused of terrorism but currently out on bail due to her poor health. The formal allegations against Bisht are essentially those of intimidation and retail violence; those against Thakur are worse by an order of magnitude. The UP CM has carefully sought to talk more about development even while his government shuts down slaughterhouses and promotes bottled cow products; the likely MP for Bhopal openly claims, on national television, that panchagavya The amazing thing about religious extremism is that there is always somewhere more extreme to go. I wonder who will eventually be found that will make Thakur look like a restrained and sensible moderate. So why? Why does the BJP constantly shuffle rightwards in this manner? There are at least two different answers, neither very reassuring. First, perhaps the 'real' BJP is always to the right of what its leadership openly states. This is what Govindacharya once implied when he said Vajpayee was the mukhota or face of a party that actually looked to Advani for leadership. Thus, the purpose of a particular leader is only to shift what political scientists call the Overton window -- the set of publicly acceptable ideas -- further right towards the party's core ideology. This is not a pleasant thought, because it suggests that a certain duplicity and equivocation is built into how the BJP operates. But, on the other hand, it assumes the public at any point in time is in fact more moderate than these theoretical BJP 'core beliefs', and would get turned off if they were expressed in plain terms. The second possibility is that the BJP is merely reacting to a rightward shift in the Indian public itself, or at least of the median voter in its core electoral base, namely India's northern and western states. This is the point of view that supposes that Modi himself was not overjoyed to install Bisht as UP CM, but his hand was forced by the latter's popularity among crucial elements of the population and also among Hindutva's foot soldiers. Those familiar with UP in particular will tell you that elements of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and even of the Hindu Mahasabha feel that they are losing control of many of their foot-soldiers, who prefer a more direct and confrontational style in local politics. This suggests the worrying possibility not that Prime Minister Modi is playing at being a moderate, but that, at this point in time, he genuinely occupies the political centre in north and west India. For those from more liberal traditions, therefore, it is easy to collapse all strains of the BJP and of Hindutva into one -- and, of course, they are all likely to damage national cohesion and Constitutional values. But given that Hindutva nationalism is now the dominant strain of politics in a large swathe of the country, this is poor political analysis. The BJP's leadership is in constant danger of being outflanked on its own right. Democratic politics abhors a vacuum. If the BJP becomes the new Congress, a single party dominating the politics of a large part of the country, then an Opposition within will naturally emerge -- from the right, not the left. It is that which should worry Modi, Shah and the RSS. 'Kashmir is heaven on earth. I had to come back.' On October 13, 1990, Roshan Lal Mawa, above, was shot four times in the abdomen in his shop in Zaina Kadal, Srinagar. He survived and moved to Delhi with his family. This was at the height of militancy when Pandits were driven out of the Kashmir valley. Nearly 29 years later, he reopened his shop which had been lying vacant for almost three decades, even as there have been reports of Muslim residents occupying Pandit properties. In the three decades Roshan Lal established a successful business in Delhi, but it wasn't home. He had always wanted to return and the 73 year old realised he had to take the first step, that would help others like him to come back home. He was overwhelmed when locals welcomed him with the traditional tying of a head gear and hugs and more hugs. It was, in his words, Kashmiriyat the way he has always known it. Both Roshan Lal Mawa and his son Dr Sandeep Mawa radiate warmth, and you can feel the enthusiasm in their voices even when you talk to the father-son duo from a thousand miles away on the phone. "Kashmiriyat that you feel and get here is not there anywhere in the world. It's such a wonderful place," says Roshan Lal Mawa in a conversation with A Ganesh Nadar/Rediff.com. How is your business in Kashmir, sir? It is first class. You know I sold my one month stock in two days. People have been thronging my shop to welcome me. Were your shop and home lying vacant all along? It was vacant. It has been vacant all these years. My Muslim brethren have safeguarded this property. They had faith that I would return and I have. You have a successful business in Delhi, but you still chose to come back? There is no place like home. The love and affection I get here was absent there. Kashmir is heaven on earth. I had to come back. Doesn't the regular encounters between the security forces and the militants bother you? The general public has nothing to do with the shootings. That is on between the army and the militants. 99% of the population is peaceful. They want peace. Life is short and everyone wants peace. There are bad elements, it is not good, but peace will return. Please write in your report that Kashmir is safe, people are loving and lovable. Kashmiriyat that you feel and get here is not there anywhere in the world. It is such a wonderful place. Peace will return and everyone must come home. Dr Sandeep Mawa: 'God has blessed this place' How old were you when you left the valley and where did you do your medical studies? I was 12 years old when we left our home. I did my medicine in Jammu. How does it feel to be back home? The feeling is positive. It feels so nice to be welcomed by locals as if they were waiting for us to return. God has blessed this place. Bhuri nazar lag gayi (someone cast an evil eye upon us) and the violence started at that time 30 years ago. I am busy with social work. I have an organisation, the Jammu and Kashmir Reconciliation Front, and that keeps me busy. A few years back you had brought back 50 Pandits. Yes! And at that time too I had spoken to Rediff. Is it true that you are planning on bringing back another batch of 200 Pandits this time? Yes, it is true. They are spread all over in Mumbai, Delhi and Jammu. Are their homes and shops also lying vacant? No, these 200 belong to the economically weaker sections. We are finding ways to help rehabilitate them here through my social service organisation. Are you not worried about their security? Others may have doubts, I have no doubts. 98% of the people are peace loving. You must keep in mind that the youth of today never saw the militancy we faced in the 1990s. They were born later. You know what they tell me. They say, 'We heard about militancy and what happened to you from our elders. We want to hug you to let you know we love you.' It is unfortunate that some misguided youths are lured into militancy. We are safe here. We can become a successful state of this country. We want to be here and we will stay here. Does your Jammu and Kashmir Reconciliation Front receive any funds from the government or from the public? No, absolutely not. We don't receive any funds from the government or from my friends or public. Even if people give us money we don't accept it. I have a successful business and this organisation is totally funded by me. It is between me and God. In a sensational charge, Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi on Wednesday accused the Gandhi family of using the warship INS Viraat as its 'personal taxi' when Rajiv Gandhi was prime minister. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi addresses a rally at the Ramlila ground in New Delhi, May 8, 2019. Photograph: ANI Photo Addressing his first poll rally in New Delhi ahead of the May 12 election for seven seats, Modi alleged that the Congress insulted the warship by using it for Gandhi family vacations. Modi's attack on the late prime minister comes on the heels of his allegation that Rajiv Gandhi died as a 'brashtachari no 1'. The then government led by Rajiv Gandhi and the Indian Navy hosted his family, including in-laws, and a helicopter was also deployed in their service, Modi claimed, adding that when a family becomes supreme, the country's security is at stake. 'INS Viraat was insulted by using it as a personal taxi. This happened when Rajiv Gandhi and his family was out for a 10-day vacation. INS Viraat was deployed for securing our maritime boundary. But it was diverted to take the Gandhi family which was out for a vacation,' Modi said. He also claimed that after picking up the Gandhi family, INS Viraat halted at an island for 10 days. 'Rajiv Gandhi was accompanied by his in-laws who had come from Italy. Question is whether the security of the country was not compromised by taking foreigners onboard a warship,' he asked. The aircraft carrier INS Viraat was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1987. After nearly 30 years of service, it was decommissioned in 2016. IMAGE: Modi with the BJP's Delhi candidates. Photograph: ANI Photo In an apparent attack on the Aam Aadmi Party, Modi said they supported the 'tukde-tukde' gang and brought the 'nakampanthi' model of governance to the national capital. Explaining the term 'nakampanthi', which he used in reference to the AAP government, Modi said it means 'not allowing the Centre's Ayushmaan Bharat in Delhi hospitals.' Predicting that no single party will get a majority in the elections, Congress leader Jyotiraditya Scindia says his party will forge a strong alliance of like-minded entities to create a "United Progressive Alliance plus plus" government at the Centre and end five years of "injustice". -- INDIA VOTES The days of coalition governments are here to stay, the Congress general secretary, who is seeking a fresh mandate from the electorate of Madhya Pradesh's Guna-Shivpuri seat for a fifth term, said in an interview. Asked about the Congress's chances after five rounds of the seven-phase elections, Scindia said he never quantifies the number of seats but can see that the mood of the people is against the present Bharatiya Janata Party dispensation. "My assessment is the Congress party, the UPA government will form the government at the Centre and I am very confident of our performance as a coalition," he said. "I think the people of India are waiting for the moment to respond to the injustice that has been meted out to them by the Narendra Modi government over the last five years," Scindia said during his election campaign in the region. It goes without saying that no single party, be it the BJP or the Congress or any other party, is going to get an absolute majority, he said. "It will be a coalition government at the Centre as it is now or has been for the past 25-30 years in the country," the 48-year-old said. "That being said, I firmly believe the UPA will be able to stitch together a very strong coalition government," he added. Asserting that he is not an astrologer, he said he predicted that the Congress and its allies will put together a "very strong performance". "We look forward to putting together a strong coalition government with like-minded parties which will be the UPA or UPA plus plus," he said. The United Progressive Alliance, formed after the 2004 polls and led by the Congress, ruled the country for 10 years with Manmohan Singh as the prime minister and Sonia Gandhi as its chairperson. BJP's Nationalism campaign The son of the late Congress stalwart Madhavrao Scindia said the Bharatiya Janata Party was harping on subjects related to nationalism as it had nothing to say on development issues. "That's very understandable. Because we have always come on the plank of economic growth, development and progress. We have come on the plank of alleviation of poverty. "The BJP has nothing to talk about in its last five years of governance. The last time they were in government, they talked about India Shining. And India was shining only for the BJP but not for the rest of the country," he said. This time, Scindia added, they came up with the slogan 'achche din' which applied only to a sub-section of a limited coterie of the BJP. "If you ask the common worker of the BJP or even its MPs, not even their 'achche din' have arrived," the former Union minister said. He recalled the mathematical concept of LCM (least common multiple) to say, "The LCM for the BJP is Hindutva and phoney rashtravad (nationalism)," he said. On Nyay The Congress leader, who holds sway in the Gwalior-Chambal belt of Madhya Pradesh, said he didn't agree that the party's minimum income scheme promise to provide Rs 72,000 per annum to about five crore poor households has not clicked with the masses. "The judgement will come on (counting day) May 23. So, let's wait. I am very confident the people of India have understood the concept of NYAY. It is not a very difficult concept," he said. Rahul as PM An important member of Rahul Gandhi's core committee, Scindia said the Congress president is the obvious PM choice for them but a final decision will be taken by the UPA's constituents. "We are not like the BJP which believes one man, one way or the highway. We believe in working together and taking everyone along," he said. "The Congress party is one constituent of the UPA and as far as Congress party is concerned, our voice is very clear that it should be Rahul Gandhi but it will be a collective decision," he said. Why are these elections important for the Congress? "It is because of two reasons. One is that we want to save the country from this dictatorial and authoritarian rule that is smashing our Constitution and two, to be able to give a vision for India, for the farmers, for our youth in terms of employment to take our country forward. "The Congress took the country forward in 10 years of the UPA by delivering a 7.8 percent compounded annual growth rate of over a decade which is a stupendous achievement that lifted about 25 million people out of poverty. This government has just taken us 20 years back," he said. So, it's a twin purpose -- it is to salvage our democracy and Constitution and freedom of liberty and rights and to take the country forward, he added. PM's comments on Rajiv Gandhi Modi's recent comment on the late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, calling him "corrupt no 1", was distasteful and sad, Scindia said. "It is very hurtful to see that the person occupying the highest chair of this country talking about another person who occupied that same very chair and who is no longer in this world and cast slurs on that person. It does not behove someone who occupies that chair and sad to see that this is the level of politics that Mr Modi has come down to," he said. Dangling from the windows of skyscrapers, perched perilously atop a hill... Instagram influencers do anything to get that 'perfect' photo and here's a couple who has just added to that list. Instagram couple Jean and Camille, from Brussels, better known as @backpackdiariez, travel the world taking photographs. Their most recent one is that of themselves hanging out of a moving train in Sri Lanka to get a photo they captioned as one of our wildest kisses. IMAGE: The couple captioned their photo as 'one of our wildest kisses' and wrote further that it was a moment of 'blind trust' in one another. Photograph: @backpackdiariez/Instagram The image sees Jean hanging onto the train with one hand while Camille leans out of the carriage to give him a steamy kiss - with one leg even raised in the moment of passion. It's believed her brother, who was travelling with the couple, took the picture. While plenty praised the picture, which shows lush foliage in the background with the distinctive blue train curving through the landscape, others werent impressed by the risk-taking involved in capturing it. Hope you dont fall down next time you do this stupid stunt, said one commenter. Another pointed out that their actions might encourage others to follow suit: Honestly its a beautiful picture but isnt this very dangerous? What if someone tries to copy it? The post got more than 40,000 likes, despite the controversy. IMAGE: The Belgian couple often share photographs on their Instagram page @backpackdiariez, including this one from a trip to India. Photograph: @backpackdiariez/Instagram On the couple's blog, they describe quitting corporate jobs in London last year in order to travel the world. They officially started their Instagram in June 2017 as they travelled around South America on a five-month long trip. They say they finance their travels with social media collaborations as well as some freelance work. IMAGE: The couple are from Brussels and have around 173k followers. Photograph: @backpackdiariez/Instagram The post, which was put up in April, has attracted great criticism ever since. One user commented saying, "And then they wonder why people die by trying to get similar pics..." Another user added, "It has nothing to do with wilderness, it's pure stupidity. I hope no one will die trying to do the same but if this happens it will be all on you!" One concerned social media user shared, "Are you really ready to die for a pic?" while another warned, "Seeing your other photos, you don't need to risk your lives to get a shot. Not worth it." IMAGE: The pair have been slammed for a photo they took while hanging on the outside of a moving train. Photograph: @backpackdiariez/Instagram Experts have spoken out about the 'dangerous' selfies. They say it's all about the drive behind the need to stand out -- and win "likes" -- on Facebook, Instagram and any number of other social platforms. "Around 80,000 images get uploaded to Instagram every 60 seconds," an expert was quoted as saying, "so there's massive competition. How do you get noticed? Well, you have to upload a photo people are really going to react to. "It has to be something quite striking. You know, risky photos. They get a lot of engagement, so they get a lot of likes. They get a lot of comments." IMAGE: They travel around the world sharing photographs, including this snap from their trip to Philippines. Photograph: @backpackdiariez/Instagram According to a recent report, 259 people died between 2011 and 2017 while stepping in front of the camera in often dangerous destinations. In fact, India leads the list with 159 deaths in the period covered by the study. Thats almost exactly 10 times the number of deaths seen in the country in second place, Russia, which has seen 16 deaths in the same period, followed by the United States, which saw 14 deaths. The toll in cyclone Fani on Wednesday rose to 41, while power restoration work is on full wing in the affected areas with additional skilled manpower being drawn from other states, an official said. IMAGE: A view of the destruction caused by Cyclone Fani, in Puri. The state has to install as many as 1.56 lakh electric poles. Photograph: PTI Photo The toll was 37 till Tuesday, the district collectors have confirmed four more deaths due to the cyclone which made a landfall in Puri on Friday, Information and Public Relations secretary Sanjay Singh said without naming the districts from where fresh deaths were reported. The official said restoration of water supply was the first priority of the state government after the cyclone and it has been achieved in both Bhubaneswar and most parts of Puri. "We have engaged diesel generators in places for running the water pumps where electricity is not available," he said. "We will be able to fully restore power supply in the state capital by May 12," Singh said while briefing the media on the restoration works following the massive devastation due to the cyclone which ripped apart water supply, electricity and telecom infrastructure in over 11 coastal districts. IMAGE: A woman sorts valuable items recovered from her damaged house due to Cyclone Fani, at a slum, in Bhubaneswar. Photograph: PTI Photo On the power restoration problem, he said work is on full swing with additional skilled manpower drawn from states like West Bengal, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. "While 80 per cent of electricity consumers will get power by May 10, the process will be completed by May 12 in Bhubaneswar," Singh said. The power restoration work in Puri district is picking up and in the first phase of consumers will get electricity in Grand Road (Badadanda) area on May 12, said Singh, who has been assigned the task of managing media and logistics in the post-cyclone period. WATCH: Nature's fury unleashed as Cyclone Fani barrels down on Odisha He, however, could not give any time line for full restoration of power supply in Puri district in the face of massive destruction of infrastructure in the worst cyclone hit areas. "We have to rebuild the power infrastructure afresh in many places of Puri district which was slammed by high velocity wind at a speed of over 200 kmph," Singh said. Cyclone Fani has damaged five 400 kv towers, 27 number of 220 kv towers, 21 number of 130 kv towers, four 220 kv grids, and four 132 kv grids in Puri. Similarly, 5,030 km of 33 kv lines, 38,613 km of 11 kv line, 11,077 distribution transformers, and 79,485 km of low tension lines have been damaged in the calamity, the Special Relief Commissioner said in its situation report. IMAGE: Though 400 buses are now plying in the state, more are required to meet the passenger demands after the cyclone. Bus service has started in 80 per cent of routes as the national highways and state highways have been cleared of blockades. Photograph: PTI Photo IMAGE: Villagers cross a road submerged due to heavy rainfall induced by Cyclone Fani, at a village, in Assams Kamrup district. Photograph: PTI Photo The government has sought cooperation of the power consumers and said time is required to fully restore power connection in the cyclone devastated areas. As many as 1.56 lakh new electric poles have been uprooted in the 'extremely severe' cyclone Fani. Meanwhile, the state government has launched the relief work in Bhubaneswar and issued direction to start the relief distribution in other affected districts as well. The miseries of the people were compounded with high humidity level which soared above 90 per cent in coastal districts. Apart from water supply, lack of power supply has also hit filling stations, banking service, health services and affected more than 1.4 crore people in the coastal region of the state. The situation has been so precarious that people have started leaving the state capital due to lack of essential services. The Supreme Court on Wednesday asked the Election Commission to examine grievances raised by sacked Border Security Force jawan Tej Bahadur Yadav, whose nomination against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Varansai was cancelled. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the counsel for EC to seek instructions and apprise it by Thursday. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for Yadav, referred to an earlier verdict to the court and said election petitions can be filed during the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. Yadav had moved the top court challenging the decision of Returning Officer to reject his nomination papers from Varanasi Lok Sabha seat, saying it was intended to "give walkover" to PM Modi. The RO on May 1 had rejected the nomination papers of Yadav, a Samajwadi Party candidate, who was dismissed from BSF in 2017 after he posted a video online complaining about the food served to the troops. The poll panel official held that Yadav failed to furnish a certificate as mandated under the Representation of Peoples Act to the effect that he has not been "dismissed for corruption or disloyalty to the state". Yadav has sought setting aside of RO's decision and the apex court's nod to contest elections from high-profile Varanasi seat where poll is slated to taken place on May 19. The Samajwadi Party had initially fielded Shalini Yadav as its candidate to contest against Modi and later nominated the sacked BSF jawan. While rejecting the nomination papers of Yadav, the RO had observed that "the nomination paper is neither accompanied by certificate issued in the prescribed manner by the Election Commission to the effect that he has not been dismissed for corruption or disloyalty to the state". "While passing the impugned order... the RO completely failed to appreciate that the Petitioner (Yadav) had produced his dismissal letter along with his nomination paper which clearly shows that he was dismissed from service for alleged indiscipline and not for corruption or disloyalty to state, as is provided under Section 9 and Section 33 (3) of the (RP) Act," the plea had said. Yadav, in his reply to RO's first notice of April 29, had submitted that he was dismissed from BSF due to "indiscipline" which is not covered under the election law and hence, a certificate from EC to that effect was not required, the plea said. "The RO issued second notice on April 30 asking the Petitioner (Yadav) to submit required certificate to the effect that he has not been dismissed for corruption or disloyalty to the state by 11 am on May 01. "First of all in the present facts of the case, there was no need to produce any certificate as Section 9 is not attracted at all. Secondly, this second notice asking for the certificate was served upon the Petitioner on April 30 at 6 pm. Thus, no sufficient time was given to produce the certificate," the plea had alleged. It had said Yadav had replied to the second notice to the RO by reiterating that the provisions of the RP Act were not applicable in his case. Moreover, Yadav had told the RO that he had already sent a representation to the EC requesting it to furnish certificate as contemplated under the provisions of the RP Act, it had said. "However, the RO of the Election Commission of India on that very day without waiting for the EC's response to the Petitioner's representation rejected the Petitioner's nomination paper," it had said. Rejection of nomination was not only "erroneous, arbitrary and malafide" but also showed failure of the RO and the EC in not invoking the constitutional powers to remedy the present situation for ensuring free and fair election, it had said. Women are great team players and collaborators, 'but they don't put themselves forward,' Dr Gagandeep Kang, the first Indian woman scientist to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society, tells Veenu Sandhu. IMAGE: Gagandeep Kang is the first Indian woman scientist to be elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society. Photograph: Kind courtesy Rajya Sabha TV/YouTube When Benjamin Franklin used a kite and a key to demonstrate the electrical nature of lightning in 1752, the Royal Society -- the oldest independent scientific academy in continuous existence since 1660 -- published the account of the famous experiment. Before him, it had published Isaac Newton's Principia Mathematica describing the action of gravity, and later the works of Charles Babbage ('the father of computing'), Charles Darwin ('the father of evolution') and Albert Einstein. Till 1945, the Royal Society had only men as fellows. And until this year, not one of its few women fellows was from India. Gagandeep Kang has changed that. I meet Dr Kang, 56, at the Imperial Hotel in Delhi where she is attending a three-day conference of the World Health Organisation. She heads WHO South East Asia Region's Immunisation Technical Advisory Group. It's a busy day for her, but she steps out to keep this appointment. A professor in the gastrointestinal sciences department at Christian Medical College, Vellore, Dr Kang is currently also executive director of the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute in Faridabad, some 30 km from Delhi. This autonomous institute of the biotechnology department under the science and technology ministry is working to enable faster transition of laboratory research to the market in areas such as vaccines for outbreaks and infectious diseases like tuberculosis and dengue; non-communicable diseases like diabetes; diagnostics; maternal and child health to figure out why India has such a large number of pre-term births, and so on. A clinician scientist, Dr Kang is a dogged researcher whose major focus has been on viral infections of the gut in children. Her longest research -- through children who were recruited when they were still in their mothers's womb -- has been ongoing for some 17 years in Vellore. She has followed these children through infancy and childhood to study how gut infections have affected their physical and mental health, IQ levels and school performance, and whether later interventions can reduce their stunting -- a condition that is thought to be irreversible. Dr Kang has also been a leading researcher for the testing of an India-specific oral rotavirus vaccine. The rotavirus affects kids under two, is known to cause severe diarrhoea and kills some 100,000 children in India each year. The vaccine, Rotavac, which was rolled out as part of the national immunisation programme in 2016, now covers about 50 per cent of the Indian birth cohort (children born during a given calendar time period within a specified geographical region). "And now, for the first time, its impact assessment is on," says Dr Kang. "We should have the results in about a year for both its efficiency and safety." Dr Kang's father was an engineer with the Indian Railways and her mother a teacher. Her childhood was spent moving from one place to the other -- Punjab, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal. Necessity taught her and her sister to adapt quickly and equipped them to catch up with studies every time they changed school mid-session. Dr Kang says she has attended some 10 schools. Later, when she cleared her medical entrance exam, she chose to go to CMC Vellore -- "an uncle had told me what a fun place it was," she smiles. "He was right. I made great friends and we had a great time." When news of her getting elected as a fellow of the Royal Society broke, she got an e-mail from one of her teachers at CMC. "He said, 'This is the same girl I wrote a note for saying: Don't you think you should be coming for class?'," she laughs. After her MBBS, she came to Delhi thinking she would get into ophthalmology. "But my family has an essential tremor (a neurological condition that causes involuntary trembling), so I thought maybe it wasn't a good idea to become a surgeon." Instead, she opted for clinical microbiology, "at the end of which I couldn't see myself in a lab all day, every day". She then moved to the integrated gastroenterology department and got into both clinical and lab work. "Thereon I moved very rapidly into the field, doing public health work," she says. By now she was back at CMC, Vellore, had joined the faculty, married a neurosurgeon and enrolled for a PhD, which lasted six years and during which both her sons were born. "Bringing up the kids was a bit challenging but because we lived on the hospital campus, I could go back and forth between the lab and home," she says. Later, during a fellowship to the UK in the late 1990s, where she again worked on diarrhoeal infections, the lab director suggested she should apply the methods she learnt there to stool samples from India. So she wrote to every paediatrician she knew and got her mother and friends also to reach out to paediatricians to collect samples for her. Armed with her kits from the UK, she returned home to some 500 samples. "My mother had to buy a fridge to store them," she laughs. She tested them for rotavirus and, based on the findings, went to the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, US -- "which is one of the best labs for rotavirus," she says. Its director, Mary K Estes, remains her mentor to date. This was the time when the first rotavirus vaccine had been withdrawn from the US for causing intestinal blockage. Back in a slum in Vellore, she and her team tried to replicate a rotavirus study done in Mexico. But they couldn't replicate the promising Mexico findings and spent three years analysing and reanalysing the data to understand why. They concluded that if a vaccine could be modelled for communties similar to India's, then the children could get about 50 per cent protection from the virus -- which was better than no protection. Given the phenomenal amount of data and expertise they had gathered, it was only natural that when the time came for vaccine trials, both the vaccine manufacturers and later the government reached out to Dr Kang's laboratory. In the Vellore slum community, which largely comprises daily wagers, Dr Kang's team had set up a clinic in 2003 to both treat the children and collect samples. This community would always be the first to know the result of a study. "Once a study is complete, we hire a wedding hall, invite the parents and kids for lunch and tell them the outcome," says Dr Kang. "Once when we asked for their feedback, they said, 'Your study is over, but we want the clinic.'" Today, the retired head of paediatrics from CMC Vellore and two doctors run the clinic that gets 30,000 patients every year. The team also runs several educational programmes on sanitation and water safety. Dr Kang, who has many awards and published papers to her name, makes a strong case for having more women scientists in India. "For women, it is very easy to become invisible," she says. "Outside of CMC, I would often feel that I was the token woman on committees, to the extent that I began to question if I was there because I was really good or because I was reasonably good and a woman." It was only when she travelled out of the country for research that she found open appreciation for her work and the confidence to believe in her abilities. Women, she says, are great team players and collaborators. "But they don't put themselves forward," she says. "Things haven't really changed for women, especially in mathematics, physics and chemistry, where even the outstanding ones tend to be the quieter types." This, she says, will change only when you have a critical mass of women scientists. Her Royal Society fellowship might just act as the catalyst. 'Landmark developments herald the end of two decades of stagnation in the army's modernisation plans,' notes Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal (retd). IMAGE: K-9 Vajra, a self-propelled artillery gun, displayed at the formal induction of the major artillery gun systems during a ceremony at the Deolali artillery centre, in Maharashtra's Nashik district. Photograph: PTI Photo On April 8, 2019, the Ordnance Factories Board handed over the first four indigenously manufactured Dhanush 155mm/45 calibre guns to the army. Earlier, at a function held at the field firing ranges of the School of Artillery, Deolali, on November 9, 2018 and presided over by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, two new weapons systems and a gun towing vehicle were formally inducted into operational service in the Regiment of Artillery. The weapons systems included the 155 mm/39 calibreM777 A2 Ultra-Light Howitzer of US origin and the K-9 Vajra self-propelled 155 mm/52 calibregun from South Korea. Since the purchase of 400 pieces of the Bofors 155 mm/39 calibre FH77B in the mid-1980s from Sweden, these two guns were the first modern weapons systems to be inducted into the Indian artillery. These landmark developments herald the end of two decades of stagnation in the army's modernisation plans. Though India had paid for the designs while purchasing 400 pieces of the Bofors 155 mm/39-calibre FH-77B Bofors howitzer in the mid-1980s, the guns were never manufactured locally as commissions were alleged to have been paid and the Bofors scam had brought down a government. The artillery is now equipped with obsolescent weapons and equipment like the 105 mm Indian Field Gun, the 122 mm Howitzer, the 130 mm Catapult self-propelled gun and 120 mm mortars. The artillery requires large quantities of PGMs for the destruction of hard targets such as tanks and bunkers and a potent real-time reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition (RSTA) capability. And, in view of their performance in Afghanistan and Iraq, the time has come to add UCAVs armed with PGMs to the artillery's arsenal. Only then will it be possible to achieve future military aims and objectives, including the large-scale destruction of the adversary's war machinery. Under the army's Field Artillery Rationalisation Plan (FARP) formulated in 1999, the Regiment of Artillery had obtained the chief of the army staff's approval to standardise the calibre of its guns at 155 mm so as to be able to engage targets deep inside enemy lines and to reduce the logistics trail through commonality of ammunition. The artillery plans to acquire a total of 2,820 guns of all types to replace obsolescent guns and to equip the new regiments that will form part of 17 Corps, the newly raised Mountain Strike Corps. IMAGE: An M777 Howitzer gun in action. Photograph: PTI Photo New acquisitions have begun to now move forward. The government has approved the acquisition of 145 pieces of 155 mm/39-calibre M777 howitzer through the Foreign Military Sales route in a government-to-government deal worth $750 million. The gun has a range of 24 km and weighs 4,000 kg. This weapon system, manufactured by the US-based MNC BAE Systems, will equip seven regiments in the mountains. It will take a few years before all the guns are delivered. While the first 20 pieces will be imported, the remaining 125 guns will be assembled in India, possibly by a joint venture with Mahindra Defence as the Indian partner. The design of the indigenously manufactured Dhanush was initially based on the Bofors design, but has matured into an indigenous design during development. The gun has a maximum range of 38 km. It has been reported that an order for 114 guns has been placed on the OFB with the option to buy 414 additional guns. The acquisition of 814 truck-mounted self-propelled guns for semi-desert terrain has also been approved by the Defence Acquisition Council and will be undertaken under the 'buy and make in India' category with the transfer of technology. While the first 100 guns will be imported, the remaining 714 will be manufactured in India. The total project cost is estimated to be around Rs 16,000 crore. Bharat Forge (partner Elbit of Israel), Tata Power SED (Denel, South Africa) and L&T (Nexter, France) are known to be interested in this project. 180 pieces of 130 mm M-46 Russian guns have been upgraded to 155mm/45-calibre with kits supplied by Soltam of Israel. The maximum range of the gun has gone up from 27.5 to 39 km. India can exercise an option to upgrade another 250 to 300 guns in future as a 'buy and make in India' project. The single largest artillery acquisition will be of 1,580 pieces of towed 155 mm/52-calibre guns over a period of 12 to 15 years. Of these, 400 guns are to be imported and the remaining 1,180 produced in India with ToT. Over the last eight to 10 years, several RfPs that were floated for this project were cancelled allegedly due to the corrupt practices followed by some companies. New tenders were floated for these 155 mm/52-calibre long-range guns for the plains and trials are reported to have been completed. The two contenders are joint ventures between Bharat Forge and Elbit and L&T and Nexter of France. DRDO has embarked on its own venture to design and develop a 155 mm/52-calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) in partnership with Bharat Forge and Tata Power SED, both private sector companies. While Bharat Forge will manufacture the gun, Tata Power SED will provide the electronics. Efforts are also underway to mount a 130 mm gun on an Arjun tank chassis as a replacement for the Catapult, which had a 130 mm gun on a Vijayant tank chassis. 155 mm ammunition is now being manufactured indigenously, but some fuses are still being acquired from abroad. Progress on the multi-barrel rocket launcher front has been better than that in the acquisition of tube artillery. A contract for the acquisition of three regiments of the 12-tube, 300 mm Smerch multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) system with 90 km range was signed with Russia's Rosoboron export in early-2006. Each artillery division now has a regiment of this potent weapon system. Three regiments of the indigenously designed 214 mm Pinaka multi-barrel rocket system, manufactured jointly by the Tatas and L&T, have also been inducted into service. While the Pinaka has a range of 37 km at present, the Mark 2 version of the rocket will have a range of 60 km. However, both these weapon systems are not suitable for employment in mountainous terrain. The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile (Mach 2.8 to 3.0), jointly developed with Russia, has precision strike capability, very high kill energy and maximum range of 290 km. It was first inducted into the army in July 2007. The number of BrahMos regiments has since gone up to three. The fourth regiment to be inducted will have 'steep dive' capability for the mountains. These terrain hugging missiles are virtually immune to counter measures due to their high speed and very low radar cross section. After India signed the Missile Technology Control Regime, efforts have begun to increase the range to 400 to 500 km. India should consider exporting the BrahMos missile system to achieve foreign policy objectives; for example to Vietnam. The Grad BM-21 MBRL regiments, which have been in service for almost three decades, are being given extended range rockets that have a maximum range of 40 km. These four missile and rocket launcher weapon systems will together provide a major boost to the artillery's ability to destroy key targets at long ranges. However, a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 500 km to 600 km, which can be fired from the plains to destroy targets in Tibet, is a crucial missing link in planning for a future war in the mountains. Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal (retd) is a former Director, Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), New Delhi. Ravi Kishan, the BJP's candidate, is an outsider. The BSP-SP candidate is from the powerful Nishad community. Yogi faces a tough task in ensuring that the Gorakhpur seat, which he represented from 1998 to 2017, stays with the BJP. Utkarsh Mishra reports. IMAGE: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Ajay Singh Bisht aka Yogi Adityanath is also the mahant, or chief priest, of the Gorakhnath Math. This will be the first general election after 1989 when no priest from the Math will be in the race. Photograph: Kind courtesy @myogiadityanath/Twitter In March 2018, exactly a year after Yogi Adityanath took over as Uttar Pradesh chief minister, the Bharatiya Janata Party lost his Gorakhpur Lok Sabha seat to the Samajwadi Party. Adityanath, the mahant, or chief priest, of the Gorakhnath Math, had held the seat since 1998. Before him, his predecessor at the Gorakhnath Math, Mahant Avaidyanath, represented the seat in the Lok Sabha four times: 1970-1971, 1989-1990, 1991-1996, and 1996-1998. He served as an Independent and a Hindu Mahasabha MP respectively in the first two terms and the latter two as a BJP member. Avaidyanath's predecessor Digvijaynath, one of the architects of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement in Ayodhya, also represented the seat in 1967-1970. This shows the immense clout the Gorakhnath Math holds over the constituency. However, in March last year, after three decades, the race to Parliament in Gorakhpur didn't see a sitting mahant or his disciple contesting. So the elections were back to basics: Caste equations. Thus, Praveen Kumar Nishad of the Nishad (or Nirbal Indian Shoshit Hamara Aam Dal) Party, who was fighting on a Samajwadi Party ticket -- supported by the Bahujan Samaj Party -- defeated the BJP's Upendra Shukla. Shukla secured 46.5% of the votes while Nishad got close to 47%. Last month, Nishad surprised everyone by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party, days after the Nishad Party, led by his father Sanjay Nishad, quit the SP-BSP alliance in UP. The same day, the Nishad Party announced it would join the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance. Praveen Nishad is now fighting the 2019 Lok Sabha elections on a BJP ticket from Sant Kabir Nagar, which goes to the polls on May 12. It is believed he quit the mahagathbandhan in UP because the SP was delaying the announcement of its candidate from Gorakhpur. In a conversation with Rediff.com, though Praveen hinted at leaving the SP for that very reason, he also said he wanted to be with the ruling party as, being in the Opposition, he was not able to do what he wanted for his community and constituency. When asked if he expected the BJP to field him from Gorakhpur, he had said he "trusted the wisdom of the party leadership". "I will do whatever my party has assigned to me," he said. Gorakhpur will vote in the last phase of the Lok Sabha election on May 19. IMAGE: Praveen Nishad, who won the Gorakhpur by-election in 2018 on a Samajwadi Party ticket, joins the BJP in Union Minister J P Nadda's presence in New Delhi. Photograph: Arun Sharma/PTI Photo Asked why the Nishad party quit the mahagathbandhan less than a week after joining it, Praveen said the party president (his father) would know better. However, he added, "It is better to leave the place where you don't get respect." In East UP generally, and Gorakhpur especially, the Nishad or mallah community makes a powerful vote bank. In every Lok Sabha election since 1998, except for 2009, a Nishad candidate has ended up being the runner-up in Gorakhpur. The Nishads and mallahs constitute nearly 23% of Gorakhpur voters, followed by 18% Muslim voters. Dalits count for nearly 3,50,000 of the over 1.9 million voters in the constituency. An analysis of election results since 1998 shows that these votes were often divided between Nishad and backward candidates of the SP and BSP. In the 2018 by-poll, Praveen Nishad rallied these votes behind him and thus defeated the BJP candidate, backed by the Gorakhnath Math. In 2009, no major party fielded a Nishad candidate. Interestingly, 2009 saw actor-politician Manoj Tiwari, now a BJP MP from New Delhi, contest the seat on an SP ticket. This time, popular Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan, who unsuccessfully fought the 2014 election from Jaunpur in UP on a Congress ticket, is in the fray as the BJP candidate from Gorakhpur. Considered an outsider, Kishan is unlikely to get the kind of support Upendra Shukla received in March 2018. The mahagathbandhan candidate is a powerful Nishad leader, Ram Bhuwal Nishad, who had contested the 2014 election as a BSP candidate. If the BJP fielded Praveen Nishad and had he won, he could have become the second most powerful leader in Gorakhpur after Adityanath. The CM knew this and therefore didn't let Praveen get a ticket from Gorakhpur. Once again with Gorakhnath Math priests not in the race, the election will be decided by caste equations in which Nishads, Dalits and Muslims will play a crucial role. All this makes one wonder if the BJP should have fielded Praveen Nishad from Gorakhpur. But it could not happen because of Adityanath's aversion to allow a strong Nishad candidate flourish in the constituency which is his citadel. Gorakhpur-based senior journalist Manoj Singh says the Nishad voter has been completely alienated by the BJP, especially after formation of the Nishad party. Moreover, the BJP has consistently ignored Nishad leaders and no prominent Nishad face has been in the party for two decades. After his defeat in 2014, Ram Bhuwal Nishad joined the BJP, but could not get a ticket. Former SP MLA Rajmati Nishad, who also contested the 2014 election, had joined the BJP along with her son Amarendra before the 2019 election, but they left the party only 42 days later. Rajmati Nishad is the wife of former state minister Jamuna Prasad Nishad who, as SP candidate, challenged Adityanath in three Lok Sabha elections and secured the second spot each time. In 1998 and 1999, the difference between Adityanath and Jamuna Prasad Nishad was just a little over 6,000 to 7,000 votes. In 2007, when the BSP swept the UP assembly election, Jamuna Prasad was elected as a BSP MLA from the Pipraich assembly constituency under the Gorakhpur Lok Sabha constituency. Jamuna Prasad had also fought the 1996 UP assembly elections on a BJP ticket from the Pipraich constituency, but he lost to muscleman politician Jitendra Jaisawal, contesting as an Independent. After Jamuna Prasad's death in 2010, his wife Rajmati won the bypoll on an SP ticket and represented the constituency twice. Senior Nishad leaders not finding the BJP a comfortable place has further alienated the community from the saffron fold. "All these developments have convinced the Nishads that their politics will always be subdued till Adityanath holds the reins in the constituency," says Manoj Singh. "The Nishad party is based in Gorakhpur and Dr Sanjay Nishad operates from here. Adityanath didn't want another centre of power in Gorakhpur other than himself. He doesn't want anyone else to consolidate his position in the constituency," Singh points out. "If the BJP fielded Praveen Nishad from here and if he had won, he would have become the second most powerful leader here after Adityanath, owing to the large number of Nishads in Gorakhpur. Adityanath knew this and therefore he didn't let Praveen get a ticket from Gorakhpur," Singh adds. IMAGE: BJP candidate from Gorakhpur Ravi Kishan on the campaign trail. Photograph: Kind courtesy @ravikishann/Twitter While Praveen Nishad would have got the votes of his community, Singh believes upper caste voters, especially Brahmins, would have then ditched the BJP. "So far, Adityanath could get Thakur, Baniya, and Kayastha votes along with some backward and Dalit votes. But the last bypoll has disturbed the BJP's winning combination," he says. "The BJP relies on Gorakhpur Rural and Gorakhpur Urban assembly constituencies to win the Lok Sabha seat, especially the latter which voted heavily for the party. The other three assembly segments -- Pipraich, Sahjanwa and Campiyarganj -- were never easy pickings for the BJP," Singh explains. Mahagathbandhan will get 90% of Nishad votes. Nishads are unlikely to vote for the BJP's Brahmin candidate. So the fight may not have been easier for the BJP even with Praveen Nishad as its candidate. But how much will the Nishad party joining the NDA benefit the BJP? "The Nishad party has disappointed many of its workers by joining the NDA. Many believe the BJP used money power to get the party to join their alliance. But with a Brahmin candidate, the BJP will not benefit much from the Nishad party's alliance," says Singh. In the run-up to the 2017 assembly election, Adityanath had promised reservations for the Nishad community. Praveen Nishad had then countered him, saying the community already had reservations, and the government only needed to implement it. Now with the BJP, Praveen told Rediff.com that the deal is done and issuance of caste certificates to Nishads will start soon. "At some places it has already begun," he said. But will the BJP gain the community's support with this decision? Singh believes the Nishads either vote for the Nishad party or a candidate from their community. They will never vote for the BJP's Brahmin candidate. "Mahagathbandhan will get 90% of Nishad votes. In 2018, the BJP lost because Nishads, Muslims, Yadavs and Dalits all voted against the BJP in tandem. The BJP's upper caste vote bank was not so consolidated. The situation was made worse by low voting in Gorakhpur City," says Singh. "This time too, the situation is the same. The Mahagathbandhan is getting Nishad, Dalit, Muslim and Yadav votes. Ravi Kishan being an outsider has not been able to break this vote," Singh adds. "The Congress has fielded a Brahmin lawyer (Madhusudan Tiwari) who is known locally. And he could get over 50,000 Brahmin votes, eating into the BJP's vote share," says Singh. In a nutshell, the situation is no better from the time of last year's bypolls. The BJP will really have to work hard to win back this seat. Praveen Nishad's new constituency, Sant Kabir Nagar -- from where the BJP's sitting MP Sharad Tripathi, infamous for hitting a party MLA with a shoe, was denied a ticket -- may also slip away this time from the BJP's grip. The Mahagathbandhan's candidate from the seat is the BSP's Bishma Shankar Tiwari, the runner-up in the 2014 election. The combined vote share of the BSP and SP in Sant Kabir Nagar was significantly more than the BJP's last time and if that trend continues, then the BJP should drop at least one seat from its projected UP count. HAMDEN The lawyer representing a Hamden police officer who shot at an unarmed couple in a car last month in New Haven said his client thought the driver had a gun and had opened fire. Attorney Elliot Spector said his client, Devin Eaton, thought the driver, Paul Witherspoon, had a gun in his hand as he got out of a red Honda Civic April 16 and so he opened fire. Spector said Eaton had the license plate number of the vehicle, so he was sure that the vehicle he saw on Argyle Street was the one suspected to have been involved in a reported armed robbery in Hamden. But Eaton was unaware that Yale University police Officer Terrance Pollock had followed him to the scene, Spector said. When Eaton heard additional gunfire, Spector said, he believed Witherspoon was shooting at him and he took off running down the block. Anyone watching (the) video can see that hes afraid, said Spector. Eaton, who has been an officer in Hamden for three years after two years with New Haven police, had a nearly spotless record with Hamden police when the shooting happened. The record for Pollock, who has been an officer with Yale for 16 years, has not been released. Spectors comments provided on behalf of Eaton in connection with the April 16 shooting in New Haven were the first publicly given about the officers actions that morning. The shooting injured 22-year-old Stephanie Washington. Her boyfriend, Witherspoon, 21, was driving the vehicle and was uninjured. Washingtons injuries were non-life-threatening. Around 4:20 a.m. April 16, Eaton and Pollock opened fire on a vehicle stopped near Dixwell Avenue and Argyle Street in New Haven. According to Connecticut State Police, Hamden police were investigating a report of an armed robbery at the Gas and Go station on Arch Street in town. Soon after, Eaton spotted a vehicle in New Haven he believed was involved in the robbery. A statement from Yale said Pollock responded to help the Hamden officer. Pollock was injured by a ricochet bullet from his weapon or from Eatons, according to a report from WTNH. In a press conference, Trooper Josue Dolerus said the officers fired after Witherspoon exited the vehicle in an abrupt manner, failing to comply with instructions to step out of the vehicle peacefully and show his hands. Video footage of the incident appears to show Witherspoon get out of the car with his hands up. Youll have to make your own determination about what you saw in that video because we can clearly see one hand we cant see the other, James Rovella, commissioner of the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, said at the news conference in which state police released the body camera footage and dispatch calls. State police have said no gun was found in the vehicle Witherspoon was driving. Following protocol for an officer-involved shooting, the Connecticut State Police stepped in to investigate the shooting. Since April 16, there have been hundreds of activists and community members and leaders flocking to locations in New Haven and Hamden, calling for justice and release of body-camera footage of the shooting which was eventually released April 23. Eaton and Pollock were placed on leave following the shooting. Hamden police have announced changes coming to the department since the shooting, including urban trauma training and de-escalation training for its officers. The department also now will ensure Hamden officers notify New Haven police when they cross into the city something that didnt happen that April morning through a written policy. Spector said he was representing Eaton in the event that a civil suit was filed against him. Attorney Michael Dolan, representing Witherspoon, has mentioned the possibility of a lawsuit. Spector also said that police officers are under relentless attack in this country, as protesters focus on the single moment of an officer-involved shooting, rather than the officers complete record and likely past good works. The protesters that had called for Eatons firing were acting like a lynch mob, because they have no regard for due process, Spector said. The protesters, he noted, would never be in the position Eaton was on the morning of April 16. william.lambert@hearstmediact.com GUILFORD After spending five months at the Guilford Police Animal Shelter, two dogs allegedly abused in connection with the illegal procurement of opioids are now ready to be sprung. Their owner allegedly used the animals to illegally obtain pain medication from area veterinarians to use for himself and the animals The dogs, an American bulldog mix and a Labrador mix, are up for adoption. Lily is about 9 years old and is a bulldog mix. Wasabi, a Labrador Terrier mix, is about 5. Both dogs seem to be in good health and spirits, according to the Animal Shelter Facebook page. She (Lily) is an absolute love and adores any and all attention, reads a Facebook post. She is a quiet girl and moves a little slow due to a slight deformity on her leg. Wasabi, is full of energy and runs like the wind. He would great for someone who likes to take long walks or jogs as he has energy for days!!!! according to the Facebook post. It would be great if they could be adopted together but not required, the post continues. Interested applicants can call 203-453-8083 to schedule an appointment to meet the dogs. James Cunnington, 33, of East Haven, was arrested in October 2018 for allegedly harming his dogs to obtain opioids from veterinary offices along the shoreline, police said. He was scheduled to appear in court March 18. Cunnington could not be reached for comment. The charges against Cunnington include four counts of cruelty to animals, six counts of illegally obtaining a prescription drug and four counts of doctor shopping. The medications were prescribed to the dogs, which were suffering from suspicious reoccurring injuries that included lacerations, police said. Police did not provide more details on the injuries. At some point Mr. Cunnington agreed to relinquish ownership of the dogs, said Guilford Police Deputy Chief Butch Hyatt. We wanted to make sure that those dogs are going to end up at a home where this wasnt going to happen again. UPDATED at 10:45 A.M. EDT on 2019-05-09 Several former members of Cambodias opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) were questioned by a court in Battambang province Wednesday over allegedly violating a Supreme Court order that dissolved the party, prompting condemnation from rights groups. Battambang Provincial Court prosecutor Ky Punara recently summoned 26 formerly elected CNRP commune chiefs and council members to the court over the next two weeks to answer questions about whether they engaged in politics on behalf of the party after it was banned by the Supreme Court in November 2017 over an alleged plot to overthrow the government. Cambodia drew condemnation from Western trade partners and aid donors after the Supreme Court decision, which paved the way for Prime Minister Hun Sens ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) to steamroll a general election in July last year widely seen as unfree and unfair. Five of the 26 appeared at the court Wednesday amid a heavy presence of both uniformed and plainclothes police officers who sealed off the surrounding streets. Former CNRP elected chief of Battambangs Wat Ko commune Tan Samornone of the five questionedtold RFAs Khmer Service after appearing in court that he believes the summons was a tactic meant to intimidate him and other former opposition members. This morning I was left wondering why they summoned me to the court, he said. They told me that it was because we gathered to eat noodles and we might have been planning to do something in violation of their policy, he added, referring to a night in December 2018 that he and other former CNRP officials gathered for dinner at the home of Sin Chanpov Rozeth, the former CNRP commune chief of Battambangs OChar commune. Tan Samorn expressed frustration that he had been summoned for questioning about something he described as a personal matter, and said he was allowed to return home after around half an hour of interrogation by two court officials. He further suggested that the presence of security forces outside of the court on Wednesday was part of a bid by officials to block CNRP supporters from approaching the building during the hearing. Authorities concerned Yen Mengly, Battambang coordinator for local rights group Adhoc, told RFA that the deployment of police and roadblocks signaled authorities fear of a gathering at the courthouse and was in violation of the right to public assembly. He also questioned why the five former CNRP officials had been summoned to court for questioning over a meal of noodles. This shows that the authorities are seriously concerned, he said. In a democratic society, people are free to do this kind of thing. They cant try to turn a simple gathering into a movement to topple the government. Provincial Deputy Police Commissioner Mean Lay was unavailable for comment about the police presence outside the court on Wednesday, but Battambang city governor Pheng Sithy told RFA the deployment was due to road construction and had nothing to do with the hearing. Yen Menglys concerns were echoed by Sor Chandeth, a former senator for the now-defunct Sam Rainsy Party, which merged with the Human Rights Party (HRP) to form the CNRP ahead of Cambodias 2013 ballot. The harassment and court summons of CNRP activists and [former] officials in Battambang is not that different from what happened during the Khmer Rouge, he said, referring to the harsh Communist regime under whose 1975-79 rule an estimated 3 million people are believed to have died. The CNRP has been dissolved and CNRP activists were just gathering to eat noodles with friendsthey were only summoned by the court in order to intimidate and threaten them, he added. Why cant they meet friends as private citizens? There is no legal provision to ban them from talking So this isnt about Cambodian lawits about law as dictated by the mouth of Hun Sen. Sin Chanpov Rozeth and five other former CNRP officials are scheduled to appear at the Battambang Provincial Court for questioning on Thursday. Rights group statement Wednesdays hearing came a day after New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) issued a statement demanding that authorities immediately cease harassing former CNRP members in Cambodias courts. The Cambodian government continues to harass numerous opposition officials in the courts and to threaten them with prison time long after the main opposition party was unjustifiably disbanded, said Brad Adams, HRWs Asia director. The government should immediately end the political harassment campaign against the CNRP and drop this latest batch of absurd court cases. In addition to the court order summoning the 26 formerly elected CNRP commune chiefs and council members for questioning, HRW noted that on May 2 a court in the capital Phnom Penh sentenced Sam Rainsy, acting head of the exiled CNRP, to eight years in prison in absentia for insulting the monarchy, inciting military personnel to disobedience, and the demoralization of the army. Sam Rainsy, who had vowed to return to Cambodia this year to lead the CNRPs supporters, fled the country in November 2015 to avoid a string of other convictions widely seen as politically motivated. The Phnom Penh Municipal Court has also issued arrest warrants for eight leading members of the CNRP in exile, including Sam Rainsy, on charges of conspiring to commit treason and incitement to commit a felony. HRW also noted that CNRP leader Kem Sokha has been arbitrarily deprived of his liberty for over 18 months and remains under de facto house arrest while under investigation for treason, though authorities have provided no evidence that he has committed any recognizable offense. Hun Sens persecution of the opposition shows he is once again testing how far he can take his crackdown on independent and critical voices in Cambodia, Adams said. Government response Government spokesman Phay Siphan on Wednesday dismissed HRWs statement, saying the Battambang Provincial Courts summons had nothing to do with politics. The courts actions were based on factual and legal aspects, and we urge those who doubt that to present more evidence, he said. The statement by Brad Adams only confuses people because it does nothing to reduce the burden of suspicion on the suspects. But Am Sam Ath, of local rights group Licadho, called HRWs statement a true reflection of the reality in Cambodia with no hidden political agenda. He noted that the European Union in February launched a six-month monitoring period to determine whether Cambodian exports should continue to enjoy tax-free entry into the European market under the Everything But Arms (EBA) scheme, prompted by the Supreme Court ruling to ban the CNRP and a wider government crackdown on NGOs and the independent media surrounding last years election. The EU Parliament is closely watching whether Cambodia works to restore democracy and the respect of human rights, he said. The summons by the Battambang court appears to be another violation of human rights and democracy in Cambodia, and I think the government should seriously consider the interests of the people and the nation, rather than its own political goals. Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Vanrith Chrea. Written in English by Joshua Lipes. A majority of Chinese Canadians appear to support the judicial process that could lead to the extradition of a top executive with Chinese telecoms giant Huawei to the United States, according to a recent opinion poll. A poll of Chinese Canadians carried out by the Innovative Research Group on behalf of the Canada Committee 100 Society found that 54 percent of British Columbia residents of Chinese descent think Ottawa shouldn't intervene if the extradition of Huawei chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou is approved in court. And 49 percent of those polled said the Canadian federal government should approve the extradition. While some 31 percent of respondents objected to the extradition, 27 percent said the rule of law was more important than economic interests, while 58 percent said both are important. According to 100 Society research director Zhang Kangqing, the survey shows that most Canadians of Chinese descent support the government's current approach. A majority of respondents believe that we should adhere to the principle of the rule of law," Zhang said. "Also, that we must not abandon the principle of the rule of law because of the economic benefits involved." "This is an interesting discovery," he said. Diplomatic row Meng's arrest at Vancouver airport on Dec. 1, 2018 at the request of federal investigators in the U.S. has sparked a diplomatic row between Ottawa and Beijing, which has tried to frame her arrest as politically motivated. On Dec. 10, China detained Canadian nationals Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, and has accused them of working together to "steal state secrets." Their detentions came hard on the heels of an announcement allowing the extradition process for Meng to proceed. Meng has also filed a lawsuit against the Canadian government, alleging procedural errors by officers who arrested her. She is due in court on Wednesday for a brief hearing relating to legal requests and applications. The U.S. wants to extradite her to face charges of bank fraud linked to the breach of sanctions against Iran. The case could take months or even years to resolve, and Meng is living under house arrest at her Vancouver home in the meantime. She says border officers held, searched, and questioned her at the airport under false pretenses, and "intentionally failed to advise her of the true reasons for her detention, her right to counsel, and her right to silence." According to the Canadian department of justice, Wednesday's hearing is merely an administrative hearing for requests or applications from Meng's legal team. It will also discuss whether the conditions of bail need to be revised. If the prosecution and the defense have no objections, the court will set the date for the extradition hearing, the department said in an e-mail to RFA. Strategy of delay Canadian lawyer Richard Lee said Mengs lawyers will likely try to delay her eventual hearing, and that the civil lawsuit could be a part of that strategy. "If they can drag this out for a longer time, it will benefit Meng, who will still be on Canadian soil and not in the United States," Lee told RFA. "It is hard to say what will happen while Sino-U.S. trade negotiations are still ongoing. Delay is the best strategy." He said a delay of several years is possible, as lawyers use all opportunities to appeal, potentially taking the case all the way to the Supreme Court. If the Supreme Court decides that the extradition request is well-founded, Meng's case will then be handed over to the Federal Minister of Justice to decide whether or not to approve the extradition. Kovrig and Spavor were arrested on Dec. 10 in what was widely seen as a retaliatory move following Meng's arrest. At least 13 Canadians were detained after Chinese officials vowed to retaliate for Meng's arrest. While at least eight have since been released, Chinese courts have since handed down the death penalty to Canadian nationals Robert Schellenberg and Fan Wei, who were convicted of drug trafficking. A Canadian foreign ministry spokesman said on Wednesday that Canada is very concerned about China's use of an "inhumane punishment." Canada has requested and will continue to seek leniency for Schellenberg, whose appeal hearing is scheduled for Thursday, reports said. Masked operations The U.S. Department of Justice has accused Huawei of hiding behind a linked company, Skycom, to mask its operations in Iran and accused Meng of repeatedly lying to Huaweis banking partners about the relationship with Skycom, which they described as a "partner." Concerns are growing that Huawei should be regarded as a potential security threat, as governments around the world begin tendering for next-generation 5G mobile network infrastructure, given a 2017 Chinese law requiring Chinese companies and citizens to comply with spying requests from the government. The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission on Monday warned that Chinese companies use a number of methods to acquire technology and intellectual property from U.S. companies. "These efforts are often made at the direction of and with assistance from the Chinese government, part of Beijings larger effort to develop its domestic market and become a global leader in a wide range of technologies," the Commission said in its report. Such acquisition attempts often target advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and virtual reality, it said. "[These] are still in the early stages of development but could provide dual military and civilian capabilities in the future," the report warned. It said Chinese companies acquire such knowledge via foreign direct investment agreements, venture capital, licensing agreements, the recruitment of personnel, and cyber-espionage. Huawei has repeatedly insisted that it is a private company with no ties to the state. Reported by Liu Fei for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by the Cantonese Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. Proposed amendments to Hong Kong's extradition laws could further erode the city's promised autonomy, and pose a security risk for U.S. citizens and companies, a U.S. government report has warned. The planned changes to the city's Fugitive Offenders Ordinance will allow the Hong Kong government to respond to case-by-case requests for extradition in the absence of a bilateral treaty. The most likely jurisdiction to use the proposed provision is the ruling Chinese Communist Party, which currently has no bilateral arrangement with Hong Kong. "A Hong Kong government extradition bill wouldif passed into lawincrease the territorys susceptibility to Beijings political coercion and further erode Hong Kongs autonomy," the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission said in a report published on its website on . The report cited a "broad range of offenses" carrying a minimum three-year jail sentence in Hong Kong that would be eligible under the amendments to the Ordinance. "The bill would remove independent legislative oversight in the extradition process," it said. "Such changes would undermine the strong legal protections guaranteed in Hong Kong and leave the territory exposed to Beijings weak legal system and politically motivated charges." Meanwhile, any renditions under the proposed amendments could create "serious risks" to U.S. national security and economic interests, the report warned, adding that the amendments, if passed, would call into question key aspects of U.S. policy towards the city, enshrined in the U.S.-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992. It said recent intrusions by Beijing into Hong Kongs civic affairs are already raising concerns that the city is losing the freedoms and autonomy that once distinguished it from cities across the internal immigration border in mainland China. "The new arrangement would diminish Hong Kongs reputation as a safe place for U.S. and international business operations, and could pose increased risks for U.S. citizens and port calls in the territory," it said. 'Powerful legal tool' for Beijing The amended law would also act as a "powerful legal tool" enabling the ruling Chinese Communist Party to intervene in Hong Kong politics and civil life, it said. "Passage of the bill would almost certainly make operations harder for pro-democracy advocates and the business community, who are already worried about Beijings illegal detention of Hong Kong and other foreign citizens," the report said. "This report from the USCC reflects its concern over the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance," Civic Party co-founder Dennis Kwok, who represents the legal profession in Hong Kong's Legislative Council (LegCo) told RFA. "The U.S.-Hong Kong Policy Act is a very important piece of policy, but now there are warning bells being rung for it," Kwok said. "I hope that the Hong Kong government won't just carry on regardless." Press groups have already warned that the new law could both threaten the safety of journalists, who have traditionally used the city as a safe haven, and have a chilling effect on freedom of expression in Hong Kong. Under the terms of the 1997 handover to China, Hong Kong was promised the continuation of its traditional freedoms of the press, of speech and association, as well as an independent judiciary and separate legal system, under the "one country, two systems" framework that has sheltered peaceful critics of Beijing until now. But pro-democracy politicians and rights activists say they have little faith in the Hong Kong government's promises that rendition requests from Beijing will be subjected to stringent human rights protections. Ivan Choy, a senior politics lecturer at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said the USCC report is the latest in a string of similar reports to come out of Washington warning of threats to Hong Kong's autonomy. "Many reports from the U.S. Congress have indicated that they are worried about the deterioration of the situation for democracy and human rights in Hong Kong," Choy said. Diminishing space for freedom of expression He said the ouster of six pro-democracy LegCo members and the disqualification of election hopefuls based on their political views were among the concerns raised. Diminishing space for freedom of expression was also a concern, as shown by the refusal of a work visa to Financial Times Asia news editor Victor Mallet after he hosted a luncheon with a pro-independence guest speaker at the city's Foreign Correspondents' Club, Choy added. "They clearly feel that the Fugitive Offenders Ordinance isn't an isolated incident," he said. Edward Yau, secretary for Commerce and Economic Development in the Hong Kong government, dismissed the concerns expressed in the report, however. "[This report] shows that the bill has raised many different concerns," Yau said. "But I think it's a bit of leap to say that our arrangements for fugitives will affect the business environment, or indeed the situation in other countries." He called on LegCo to pass the amendments as soon as possible, and to use its debates to dispel "misconceptions." Pro-democracy leaders and rights activists in Hong Kong warned last month that more mass demonstrations are likely if the government presses ahead in the face of public opposition. The warnings came after tens of thousands of people took to the city's streets on , in protest over the amendments. Reported by Lau Siu-fung for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie. An injured man from Kyauktan village in Rathedaung township sits on a bed in a hospital in Sittwe, capital of western Myanmar's Rakhine state, May 2, 2019. Rights activists and religious leaders on Wednesday cast deep doubt on whether a Myanmar military investigation team probing last weeks shooting deaths of civilians held in custody in troubled Rakhine states Kyauktan village will be impartial and render justice if human rights violations are found, and called for a panel of independent inspectors to be set up. They have appealed to the Myanmar government to appoint independent inspectors to investigate the incident that left six people dead and eight wounded as they were being held in a school compound for interrogation about possible connections to the Arakan Army (AA), an ethnic armed group fighting national forces for greater autonomy in the state. Comprised of five military officers, the investigation team has been probing the incident since May 3, a day after the shootings at the village in Rathedaung township. New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) said only an independent probe of the shootings would uncover the truth. The Myanmar military concedes that they killed six villagers that they were holding in Rakhine state, but only a genuinely independent investigation will get to the bottom of what happened, said Brad Adams, HRWs Asia director, in a statement issued Tuesday. An independent and impartial investigation is needed to bring to justice anyone responsible for wrongdoing. The killings in Kyauktan should not be the latest deaths of villagers in Myanmar that are not seriously investigated, he said. Governments concerned about the militarys atrocious record on accountability should press Myanmars authorities to independently uncover what happened and give the families of those killed both the answers and justice they deserve. HRW noted that under international human rights law, Myanmar has an obligation to investigate deaths in custody and to hold those responsible to account, despite the countrys failure to do so in most cases where credible reports and evidence have pointed to unlawful killings by government forces in Rakhine state since late 2017. Only one instance of conviction occurred in April 2018, when a military court sentenced seven soldiers to 10 years in prison for their roles in the massacre of 10 Rohingya Muslim boys and men in Rakhines Inn Din village. The Kyauktan shootings came on the heels of another instance of deaths in military custody in April in Mrauk-U townships Letka village, where three of 27 villagers detained on suspicion of supporting the AA died, raising suspicions of torture among their bereaved relatives and local lawmakers. The military denied the torture accusations and said the three had succumbed to other causes. A meaningless endeavor Cheery Zahau, an ethnic Chin human rights and womens rights activist, politician, and writer, said rights violations in Myanmar will not end as long as investigations are left to the organization committing alleged violations. It is meaningless that authorities who committed the human rights violations are forming a commission to investigate the case, she said. An independent and transparent commission should undertake the investigations. If they are genuine about their intentions, they should transfer the task to an independent and trustworthy commission, even if it is not an international one, she said. Of the original 275 men and boys that government soldiers rounded up from several villages on April 30 to question about possible connections to the AA, a total of 209 have now been released, while the rest remain in custody. Seven Buddhist abbots from Rathedaung and Rakhines capital Sittwe appealed to military authorities to free innocent detainees as soon as possible and provide medical treatment to those who are injured. Buddhist monk Ashin Sandar Wara said the military would likely not make public information from the investigations if soldiers are found to have violated regulations. They will not publish information such as who will be charged and what they will be sentenced for in the newspapers, he said. I know they will conduct a perfunctory investigation and issue ambiguous announcements on punishments. Id like to appeal to the military to keep in mind that its job is to protect the lives and property of civilians. In line with the law Soldiers and eyewitnesses have presented different accounts of what happened in the school compound in Kyauktan village at about 2 a.m. on May 2. The Myanmar military said its troops first fired warning shots into the air to disperse the group of detainees as they staged an attack during which they tried to grab soldiers guns, but had to shoot the men and boys as a last resort. Eyewitnesses, however, have told RFA that soldiers opened fire on the sleeping detainees after a mentally ill man held with them began shouting and ran off. Lieutenant General Sein Win, Myanmars minister of defense, told RFA in Naypyidaw on Tuesday that the investigation is being conducted according to law. We need to check if there were any mistakes made during the interrogations or if the forces were complying with military procedures, he said. The investigation process will be in line with the law. Military spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun said the investigative team is collecting testimony from eyewitnesses. We will use these testimonies accordingly to deliver justice, he said. They will be submitted as evidence. Depending on the situation, we will decide whether to release them to the public or not. He told RFAs Myanmar Service on Monday that soldiers found to have violated military regulations during the incident would be subject to punishment. The online journal The Irrawaddy reported Wednesday that Zaw Min Tun said four of the remaining detainees confessed during interrogations to being AA members and that the military would pursue legal action against them. Two others are suspected of being associates. Reported by Kyaw Thu for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Ye Kaung Myint Maung. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. Authorities in western Chinas Sichuan province handed jail terms on Wednesday to a young Tibetan convicted of calling in public for the release of Tibetan spiritual leader the Panchen Lama and also to his aunt, who was accused of spreading word of the young mans protest, Tibetan sources said. Wangchen, 20, who was arrested on April 29, was sentenced by the Sershul County Peoples Court in Sichuans Kardze (in Chinese, Ganzi) prefecture to a term of four years and six months for leading a conspicuous protest in public against the law of the land, a Tibetan living in India told RFA, citing sources in the region. Meanwhile, Wangchens aunt Acha Dolkar was handed a prison term of one year and three months for her role in sharing news of Wangchens protest with contacts outside the region, RFAs source said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Two other Tibetans, identified only as Lobsang and Yonten, were each fined 15,000 yuan (U.S. $2,211) and ordered to attend political re-education classes on issues of national security for six months, the source said. Wangchen, an unschooled local resident who made his living in horse-riding competitions, was detained on April 29 after reciting prayers and shouting slogans calling for the release of the Panchen Lama, who disappeared into Chinese custody as a child in 1995 after being authorized in his role by the exiled Dalai Lama, sources told RFA in an earlier report. During an offering ceremony and the hanging of prayer flags on the hill behind Sershul monastery, he shouted slogans calling for the release of the Panchen Lama and for the reunion of the Panchen Lama and the Dalai Lama in Tibet, one source said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Only Wangchen recited the prayers and shouted the slogans, the source said. But three othersLobsang, Yonten, and another person who was physically disabledwere detained as his accomplices, with the disabled man eventually set free. Called in for questioning Police called Acha Dolkar in for questioning on May 3, and then summoned her and other family members again four days later, telling them that no more than five relatives would be allowed in court next day, RFAs source in India said on May 8. Wangchen walked unsteadily when taken to court on May 7, leading some observers to believe he had been tortured in custody by police, RFAs source said, adding, However, no one was allowed to get close to him to look for signs of trauma. We dont know where Wangchen and his aunt were taken after they were sentenced, and his family were not allowed to provide lawyers to represent him in court, the source said. The situation in the area is very tense at the moment, as it remains under a security clampdown, he said. Calls seeking comment from Sershul county police and the county court rang unanswered on Tuesday. Taken into custody Tibets Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, was recognized on May 14, 1995 at the age of six by the Dalai Lama as the 11th Panchen Lamathe reincarnation of his predecessor, the 10th Panchen Lama. Tibetan tradition holds that senior Buddhist monks are reincarnated in the body of a child after they die. Three days later, the young Panchen Lama and his family were taken away by Chinese authorities, who then installed another boy as their own candidate in his place. Speaking last week on the eve of the Panchen Lamas 30th birthday, a Tibetan advocacy group said China should immediately free the Panchen Lama from custody and allow him to return to his monastery to assume his role as the second most well-known religious figure in Tibet. While the religious leaders whereabouts remain unknown and he has not been seen in public since his disappearance, it is believed he is still alive, Washington-based International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) said in a statement marking his April 25 birthday. As the Panchen Lama turns 30, the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT) calls on China to immediately free him and allow him to return to his monastery, Tashi Lhunpo, and assume his vital role as a religious leader, the statement said, noting that enforced disappearance is defined as a crime by the United Nations. Reported by Lobsang Chopel and Pema Ngodup for RFAs Tibetan Service. Translated by Dorjee Damdul. Written in English by Richard Finney. MOSCOW -- Aeroflot has canceled or delayed more than a half-dozen flights that used the Sukhoi Superjet, days after 41 people were killed in a crash-landing at a Moscow airport. Three Minsk-bound flights were delayed on May 8 due to unspecified technical problems with the jets, and a flight to Rostov-on-Don was canceled due to a broken steering position indicator. Passengers were later flown to the southern city aboard a Boeing jet. On May 7, a Superjet flight from Moscow to Riga was delayed by three hours after passengers complained of a burning smell and demanded a different plane, according to the news agency BNS. The Interfax news agency, meanwhile, reported on May 8 that Superjet flights from Moscow to Samara, Nizhny Novgorod, and the Swedish city of Goteborg had also been canceled, according to flight departure boards at Sheremetyevo airport. The newspaper RBK said 11 flights had been canceled or delayed at Sheremetyevo as of the evening of May 8. Aeroflot did not immediately comment on the number of cancelations or delays. Investigators are still trying to determine what caused a Murmansk-bound Superjet on May 5 to make an emergency landing at Sheremetyevo less than an hour after taking off. The jet burst into flames after it made a hard landing, killing 41 of the 78 people on board. One of the pilots, and several passengers, have been reported as saying that the jet was struck by lightning while in the air. Aeroflot has long shed its troubled post-Soviet safety record, with its fleet relying mainly on Boeing and Airbus aircraft. However, the state-owned company also owns at least 50 Superjets that it operates on both domestic and international routes. Manufactured by the state conglomerate United Aircraft Corp., the Superjet is a midrange regional jet, conceived of as a way to bolster the countrys civil aviation manufacturing industry in the face of competition from Boeing and Airbus, as well as Embraer and Bombardier. The jet has seen a series of problems since its launch in 2011, and Russia has struggled to convince foreign airlines to purchase it. Since the crash, there have been a growing number of calls to ground all Superjets nationwide. Transport Minister Yevgeny Ditrikh has said there's no reason to ground the planes pending the outcome of the investigation. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that "only the competent aviation authorities" would be able to make a decision to ground the plane. With reporting by AFP ISLAMABAD -- Pakistani officials said a Christian woman who was acquitted of blasphemy after spending eight years on death row has left for Canada to be reunited with her daughters. Asia Bibis conviction was overturned by the Supreme Court last year, sparking violent protests by religious hard-liners. Pakistani officials on May 8 said Bibi had departed for Canada but didnt say when she left the country. Her lawyer, Saif ul-Malook, said she had already arrived in Canada, where two of her daughters are understood to have been granted asylum. Bibi, 48, was sentenced to death by a court in the central province of Punjab in 2010 for allegedly committing blasphemy in a dispute with Muslim women while working on a farm. In 2014, a higher court in the provincial capital, Lahore, upheld the sentence. Since her acquittal by the Supreme Court in October 2018, Bibi had been in protective custody while arrangements were made for her to leave the country. Islamic extremists have threatened to kill her and also urged the overthrow of the government following Bibi's acquittal. Bibis case brought international attention to Pakistan's controversial blasphemy law, which carries an automatic death penalty. Salman Taseer, the governor of Punjab, was killed in 2011 for defending Bibi and criticizing the misuse of the blasphemy law. Pakistan's minister for minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, was assassinated later that year after demanding justice for Bibi. In a statement, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo confirmed Bibi had been reunited with her family and said Washington welcomed Pakistan's decision to free her. "The United States uniformly opposes blasphemy laws anywhere in the world, as they jeopardize the exercise of fundamental freedoms," he said. Meanwhile, Amnesty International said that Bibis case illustrates the dangers of Pakistans blasphemy laws and the urgent need to repeal them. She should never have been imprisoned in the first place, let alone faced the death penalty. That she then had to endure the repeated threats to her life, even after being acquitted, only compounds the injustice, the London-based human rights watchdogs Deputy South Asia Director Omar Waraich said. With reporting by AP, dpa, and the BBC Human Rights Watch said authorities in the Russian region of Chechnya renewed a campaign of intimidation and torture against gays and bisexual men earlier this year, with several men telling the group they had been kicked, beaten, electrocuted, and even raped with foreign objects. The report by the U.S.-based organization released on May 8 corroborates many earlier reports from Russian activists, who said a new "gay purge" in the North Caucasus region began in late 2018 and continued into early 2019. It followed a similar crackdown in Chechnya in early 2017 that elicited wide outrage within Russia and other countries. The Human Rights Watch report was in line with a similar report released in April by Amnesty International, which said that Russian authorities have failed to provide justice for the victims and have shown themselves complicit in heinous crimes. Russia has faced international pressure over the treatment of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community in Chechnya, which Kremlin-backed regional strongman Ramzan Kadyrov has ruled with an iron hand for more than a decade. Human Rights Watch said it interviewed four men who were detained from three to 20 days in late 2018 and early 2019 at a compound belonging to the Internal Affairs Department for the Chechen capital, Grozny. Police officials there kicked them with booted feet, beat them sticks and polypropylene pipes, and tortured three of the four with electric shocks. One was raped with a stick, the group said. The men told the rights watchdog they were tortured by police in an effort to force them to identify other gay men in their social circles. In some cases, they were shown photos of men suspected to be gay or bisexual. One man said the police handed him over to his family, exposing his sexual orientation and indirectly encouraging his family members to kill him, the report said. Some of those interviewed said police demanded large sums of money for the mens release, it added. Human Rights Watch said it did not find indications that top Chechen authorities had sanctioned the second wave of detentions, as they had with the anti-gay purge of spring 2017. Reports that gay men were being targeted by Chechen authorities first emerged in early 2017 when the independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta described what it called a campaign of abuses, including abduction, torture, and murder. Human Rights Watch later confirmed the roundup, calling it "an apparent effort to purge them from Chechen society." In January 2019, activists began reporting a new campaign targeting gay men. Igor Kochetkov, who heads the Russian LGBT Network, said around 40 people had been detained, and two people killed. here was no immediate reaction to the HRW report. However, a spokesman for Kadyrov earlier denied Kochetkov's assertion of a new crackdown. This is an absolute lie, in which there is neither a grain of truth. There were no detentions on grounds of sexual orientation in the indicated periods in the Chechen Republic," Alvi Karimov was quoted by Interfax as saying in March. Kadyrov has repeatedly denied any accusations of a purge of gay men. He's also denied that there were any gay men whatsoever living in Chechnya. In December 2017, the U.S. Treasury Department hit Kadyrov with financial sanctions under the Magnitsky Act human rights law, accusing him of torture and "extrajudicial killings." Another Chechen security official was sanctioned for involvement in the anti-gay purge that targeted gay and bisexual men in the Russian region, the Treasury Department said. KABUL Taliban militants have attacked the offices of an international aid group in central Kabul, setting off a huge blast and battling Afghan security forces, officials said. Health officials said at least 15 people were wounded in the attack and transferred to the nearby Emergency Hospital. Nusrat Rahimi, a spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, told RFE/RL that the explosion occurred at 11:40 a.m. local time on May 8, as Afghanistan observes the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The assault, claimed by the Taliban, targeted Counterpart International, which has offices near those of the Afghan attorney general, Rahimi said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the aid group was targeted because it was involved in what he described as harmful Western activities inside Afghanistan, without elaborating. The Interior Ministry said in a statement that 150 staff members had so far been rescued by police special forces. It said the first and second floor of the facility was cleared and the operation to clear the rest of the building -- as well as to rescue the remaining staff members -- was ongoing. The dpa news agency quoted Mirzahussain Sadid, a witness close to the area, as saying he heard three explosions and gunfire and could see smoke rising from a building. The explosion comes as the U.S. and Taliban representatives continue negotiations in Qatar aimed at bringing an end to the Afghan conflict. Last week, President Ashraf Ghani offered the Taliban a cease-fire to begin on the first day of Ramadan, which began on May 6. The militant group refused. With reporting by AP and dpa Sweden's Foreign Ministry says two of its diplomats have been expelled from Russia following a move by Stockholm to deny visas to two of Moscows envoys. The expulsion, announced on May 8, was another blow to relations following an earlier diplomatic dispute over alleged Russian spying in the Nordic nation. "Two Swedish diplomats have been asked to leave Russia," Swedish Foreign Ministry spokesman Rasmus Eljanskog said. We regret the Russian Foreign Ministrys decision. Eljanskog said the move followed a decision by Stockholm not to extend one Russian diplomat's visa and to deny an application for a diplomatic visa for another Russian citizen. The timing of that action was not disclosed. Maria Zakharova, the spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, told reporters in Moscow that the expulsion was in retaliation for Stockholms earlier decision on its envoys. Sweden has long expressed concerns about the threat of Russian espionage. The country's head of counterintelligence last year warned that Moscow posed the biggest intelligence threat to Sweden." In late February, Swedish authorities arrested a technology worker, alleging the person had been "recruited as an agent by a Russian intelligence officer posing as a diplomat in Sweden." The 45-year-old Swedish suspect denied the allegations and was released from custody in late March. Local media described the man as a naturalized Swedish citizen who previously held a Russian passport. The Russian diplomat, identified by the media as Yevgeny Umerenko, left Sweden several weeks after the incident, Swedish authorities said. Based on reporting by AFP, dpa, AP, and TASS Russia said it would allow Polish investigators to examine the wreckage of a Polish plane that crashed in 2010, an incident that killed Polands then-President Lech Kaczynski and 95 other people. In a statement, the Investigative Committee said it was granting access to the Polish officials at the end of May in response to a request from Warsaw. The 2010 crash, which occurred near the Russian city of Smolensk, killed Kaczynski as well as his wife, the country's top military leadership, and other officials. The group was traveling to attend ceremonies honoring Polish officers killed by Soviet secret police during World War II. In 2011, an investigation by Polands government blamed the crash on errors by Polish pilots, poor guidance by Russian controllers in dense fog, and very poor visibility at the rudimentary military airport. A separate report by Russian experts blamed the Polish crew and the alleged presence of a Polish Air Force commander in the cockpit. In recent years, the crash has become a rancorous political issue in Poland, which has pit liberals against conservative supporters of Kaczynski, whose twin brother, Jaroslaw, now heads the ruling Law and Justice party. The United States has announced new economic sanctions on Iran, targeting its steel and mining industries, as Washington tries to turn up the pressure on Tehran. The move, announced by President Donald Trump on May 8, comes as a U.S. aircraft carrier battle group heads to the waters near Iran, and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo paid an unannounced visit to Iran's neighbor, Iraq. The new sanctions target Iran's steel, copper, aluminum, and mining sectors, all key sources of revenue for the country. Washington has already moved to restrict oil exports, the country's largest source of hard currency. "Tehran can expect further actions unless it fundamentally alters its conduct," Trump said in a statement released by the White House. "I look forward to someday meeting with the leaders of Iran in order to work out an agreement and, very importantly, taking steps to give Iran the future it deserves." Earlier on May 8, Iran's president announced that the country will resume high level enrichment of uranium if world powers do not protect its interests against U.S. sanctions. To say her youngest daughter posed challenges in parenting is an understatement. She was carefree and lived life to the fullest, with the exception of taking education and planning for the future very seriously. The eldest daughter was the epitome of the perfect child: a straight A student and an officer or member of all the right clubs and organizations. She had a love of music that prompted her to take piano lessons. Daughter #2 had been registered to study the guitar and learn to twirl the baton. She didnt do either, preferring to hang out with the kids in the neighborhood. Who was thinking past that particular day? Youre correct-- she wasnt. And then there was the mother. She was patient and giving. But she was a disciplinarian. I can still hear her say, Go get a switch. We lived in a community known as Hedgeview due to the well-manicured hedges. The downside was that said hedges provided a tool for punishment. She had been raised rather sheltered due to the war years, as she still calls them. She was a preteen when World War II broke out. Her father was a boss in the coal mines so they lived comfortably. Owczarski wrote in an email the university is satisfied with the firms work. The university has already rescinded the requirement for first year students to live on campus. The schools standard occupancy is 9,471 beds with an additional 563 temporary beds available, according to Owczarski. The school is reviewing a way to add 200 additional beds. According to a letter sent by engineering education professor Marie Paretti to fellow members of the Tech Faculty Senate, the university shouldve seen the numbers coming. Frankly, it is unacceptable to me to hear anyone in the administration suggest that these numbers are unexpected, she wrote. She wrote that a colleague in the College of Engineering had predicted more than 2,600 new freshmen, an oversized class for that college, based on the numbers from the university and shared that with administrators. The prediction was ignored, she wrote. She wrote that the increase in students would create unnecessary strain on Blacksburg. Many Virginians experiencing a mental health crisis will no longer be transported to the hospital in the back of a police car starting this summer as the state moves away from a practice that has been criticized as traumatizing for the patient and a waste of time and money for law enforcement officers. The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services announced Tuesday that it will award the private security firm G4S a $7 million, two-year contract to provide transportation for the thousands of mental health patients each year who are involuntarily hospitalized. The company will provide drivers to take patients to the closest hospital with an available mental health bed, which can sometimes be hours away. Currently, local law enforcement officers are dispatched to drive patients in the back of a marked vehicle, sometimes handcuffing them even when a crime hasnt been committed. A state study in 2017 called for the behavioral health department to establish an alternative transportation system that would lessen the distress people might feel when theyre handled by police and would stop taking law enforcement officers away from other duties as they drive patients across the state. There are few Virginia traditions better than sitting down with good friends and enjoying corn on the cob, ice-cold beer and a bushel of freshly steamed crabs. If thats your idea of a perfect summertime feast, weve got some great news for you. Blue crabs are flourishing in the Chesapeake Bay. Results of the Blue Crab Winter Dredge Survey show the highest estimates of the tasty shellfish in seven years. The survey is an annual collaboration between the Virginia Institute of Marine Science and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Since 1990, dredge-survey teams have taken crab samples from more than 1,500 sites in the bay and its tributaries. Sampling is done in the winter when crabs are dormant on the bottom, providing a more accurate account than in the summer months when theyre moving about. The news is especially good considering how severely blue crabs were overfished in the Chesapeake a little more than a decade ago. In 2008, Virginia and Maryland set stricter regulations on harvesting. While unpopular at the time, the restrictions made a big difference. Mondays results show a healthy, thriving crab population estimated at about 594 million crabs. Thats up by 60% from last year. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) Senate President Tito Sotto on Wednesday raised more questions on the identity and intentions of the man linking President Rodrigo Duterte's family and friends into the illegal drug trade. He said Peter Joemel Advincula, also known as Bikoy, made the same allegations against the Aquino administration in December 2016. Sotto said Advincula reached out to his office in 2016 when he was Senate Majority Leader. He said his aide was able to secure an affidavit from Advincula. The senator said Advincula claimed former President Benigno Aquino III, ex-Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, then-Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, and others are "patrons" or bosses of the drug syndicate "Quadrangle Group." He also tagged other officials during the Aquino administration as taking part in the illegal drug trade. "Incredible mga kwento eh. I cannot imagine pres noynoy aquino going to that underground safehouse in Misbis with Sec. Roxas, Sec. de Lima, and exchanging money, exchanging shabu. I cannot imagine that happening," Sotto said in a media briefing. Sotto pointed out that the "Quadrangle Group" is the same drug ring mentioned by Advincula in the video series "Ang Totoong Narco List" only now, he is linking other personalities. In the five-part video series, Advincula who first appeared as an anonymous man alleged the Presidents 13-year-old daughter, his son former Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, senatorial candidate and former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Bong Go, Davao City Mayor Sara Dutertes husband Manases Carpio are deep into the drug syndicate. The senator said he decided against publicizing Advincula's accusations by holding a Senate probe. "I knew this is completely farsical to say the least... Definitely the person is not credible at all," he said. Following Sotto's media briefing, Senator Panfilo Lacson said his panel will no longer hold a probe on Bikoy's allegations. "SP Sotto said it all. We are now recalling the letter of invitation sent to Advincula yesterday. Notices will be sent out for the cancellation of the committee hearing on Friday. Enough of this nonsense," he said in a tweet on Wednesday. Mexicos Navy to help fight Caribbean sargasso Cancun, Riviera Maya, Q.R. In a press conference Tuesday, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador reported that the Secretary of the Navy will be responsible for creating a plan to deal with the sargasso issue along the Quintana Roo coast. While he has guaranteed federal support to deal with the problem, he says that the navy will present their strategies next week, adding that the federal government will carry out the plan in a coordinated manner. He explained that he has requested the help of the navy since they have equipment and experience to deal with the issues at sea, noting that there is coordination between the municipal governments of Quintana Roo and the governor, as well as the entrepreneurs of the sector. He says solving the problem is not about hiring specialized companies to deal with it if we have the navy, explaining that technicians are available to deal with the problem and its necessary to use whats available to act with efficiency and savings. Lopez Obrador says the navy has planes to detect flows and the transport of drugs in boats, noting that they have all the technology, boats, first class technicians and naval bases in Chetumal and the Caribbean, and that they know the region well, understanding the purpose is to have a plan against the arrival of sargassum. We will help, and so will the state government and municipal governments. The announcement came after a recent meeting between the president and the Secretaries of Tourism, Miguel Torruco, the head of Ecology and Environment of Quintana Roo Josefa Gonzalez, the director of Fonatur, Rogelio Jimenez Pons and the Secretary of the Treasury, Carlos Urzua. Alfredo Arellano Guillermo of la Secretaria de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales of Quintana Roo explained that the problem of the sargasso does not exclusively affect Mexico or the Mexican Caribbean, but also more than 17 countries throughout the Caribbean basin. He says that this entire region is without experience for its containment, adding that Quintana Roo is a pioneer in the application of such strategies. To date, the strategy to deal with the sargasso has included a coastal division into nine zones and two islands: Mahahual-Xcalak, Tulum, Akumal-Puerto Aventuras, Puerto Aventuras-Hard Rock, Playacar, the area between the Playa del Carmen docks, Ultramar Pier-Punta Maroma, Punta Nizuc-Punta Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres. The state government has planned to contain the seaweed arrival with large boats offshore to prevent it from reaching the coast with smaller containment boats near the shore to pick up was does pass. The government of Quintana Roo says that approximately one billion peso will be needed to implement the two-stage strategy to deal with the unwanted seaweed this season. Twenty-seven Roanoke County high school nursing students were honored for passing their certified nursing aide exams. The Burton Center for Arts and Technology held a pinning ceremony Friday for the juniors and seniors enrolled in Roanoke County Public Schools introduction to nursing program. The students pinned had passed a test offered through the Virginia Board of Nursing. That allows them to seek employment as nursing assistants or aides. Roanoke County partnered with Carilion Clinic and Medical Facilities of America to launch the program this school year with the goal of attracting more local students to a career in health care. Karen Zimmerman, a board-certified nurse and a human resources consultant for Carilion, teaches the course. The school system plans to add a second level to the program next school year that will offer an advanced curriculum. Several current nursing students plan on moving to the next level, said schools spokesman Chuck Lionberger. Club honors Salem senior The Big Lick Breakfast Club, formerly known as the Big Lick Kiwanis Club, presented its academic achievement award to Salem High School senior Shayom Debopadhaya on Tuesday. The award came with $500 and recognized Debopadhaya for reaching the pinnacle of academic excellence among all graduating seniors in Salem and Roanoke City Public Schools, the club announced in a news release. The club created the award in the fall with the goal of honoring a high school student for exceptional scholastic ability. A student from Roanoke County Public Schools will receive the award next year. In 2021, the award will go to a student from either Salem or Roanoke again. Debopadhaya was selected based on several factors, including GPA, extracurricular activities and other educational achievements. Debopadhaya has been accepted to multiple colleges and universities and wants to become an orthopedic surgeon, the club said. On the blustery morning of April 16, 2007, Tom Kapsidelis sped to Virginia Tech to cover a gunmans rampage on campus that left 32 students and professors dead, 17 others wounded and countless people emotionally traumatized. Hed spend the next decade trying to understand how that day has affected people in Blacksburg, but also, the country. In After Virginia Tech: Guns, Safety, and Healing in the Era of Mass Shootings, Kapsidelis weaves together the stories of survivors, families and first responders as they navigate how to heal from what was the worst mass shooting in the United States for nearly a decade. After surviving being shot in Norris Hall, Colin Goddard advocates for gun control measures. Shot in the same classroom, Kristina Anderson works to improve safety at schools, businesses and other places. For years, parents who lost children sought answers from the university. First responders worked through the trauma of what they saw. I wanted to see how people were making their way forward through a difficult path, said Kapsidelis, who was a journalist at the Richmond Times-Dispatch for 28 years. Dozens of mass shootings have happened in the United States since Virginia Tech. A man fatally shot 26 people inside an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, in 2012. A gunman killed 49 people and injured 53 more in an attack at a nightclub in Orlando, Florida, in 2016. The shooting at a concert in Las Vegas in 2017 killed 58 people. One of Kapsidelis friends was among the five killed in the Annapolis, Maryland, newsroom of the Capital Gazette last year. Kapsidelis said with a 24-hour news cycle and so many hot-button issues commanding attention, shootings can become a blur. I wanted to slow down the pace for readers to reconnect them with what people have gone through over a decade and their emotions with what happened, he said. Maybe they will ask themselves what they can do to be a part of the solutions. More than 12 years later, Virginia Tech still seeks to prevail over that day and remember the lives lost. It also offered lessons to the rest of the country. Then Gov. Tim Kaine was determined that the shooting receive a thorough examination to learn about faults and what should have been done differently. The tragedy set off an effort to improve schools abilities to identify troubled people and intervene before its too late. It caused schools to shore up physical security. There has been progress, so its wrong to say that nothing has changed, but its also accurate to say more things need to change, Kapsidelis said. One major area that Virginia and the rest of the country has struggled to make progress on is gun control. Kapsidelis writes about the survivors of various shootings and family members continuing to press forward on their mission despite the pushback from gun-rights advocates, the National Rifle Association and politicians unwilling to budge on the issue. The disconnect between the overwhelming majority of people and what the elected officials do, thats what the public needs to realize, Goddard told Kapsidelis. The gun debate changed after the shooting last year at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, especially when the attacks passionate teenage survivors demanded new restrictions on firearms. Virginia Tech survivors have been grateful for the energy and persistence from the teens, Kapsidelis said. Congress is currently mulling a gun control bill. State legislatures have passed dozens of bills to address gun violence. In Virginia, the Republican-controlled General Assembly killed all gun control bills this past session, and a special committee focused on improving school safety steered clear of discussing guns. Change comes incrementally in this country, Kapsidelis said. Meanwhile, with each new shooting, more people have joined Virginia Tech survivors in the network that advocates for gun control, mental health resources and other safety measures. Theyve become more organized, and they remain hopeful that changes will happen . The perseverance of the Tech community has paid off, Kapsidelis said. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. To hear National Hurricane Center director Ken Graham tell it, the most frightening hurricane of all is one that is on many peoples lips, but doesnt really exist, yet causes many to let their guard down for life-threatening dangers. That would be what Graham calls Hurricane Justa as in, Its just a Category 1. While the opportunity for the public to tour two aircraft that penetrate hurricanes was the centerpiece, calling attention to the dangers posed by any strength of hurricane either in its coastal effects or as far inland as the Roanoke Valley was the purpose of Wednesdays 2019 East Coast Hurricane Awareness tour stop in Roanoke. People streamed in by the hundreds at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport to get a close look at, and go inside, a U.S. Air Force Reserve WC-130J Hurricane Hunter and a NOAA Lockheed WP-3D Orion aircraft, two of only 12 aircraft in the world authorized to fly into hurricanes. The military aircraft is flown into hurricanes to collect data on tropical cyclones for imminent forecasts and warnings, while the data collected by the NOAA plane is used more for research and improvement of forecast modeling in the long run. We do it because some information we can only get inside the storm, said Warren Madden, who is chief of a unit within the National Hurricane Center that coordinates military reconnaissance flights into hurricanes. We put our lives on the line to get the data people need to protect their lives and property. Graham said it was no coincidence that the hurricane awareness tour made a stop in Roanoke, given the regions experience with tropical cyclone-related flooding and his own intent to see the tour, in its 40th year, make more inland stops, such as Roanoke; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Charlotte, North Carolina. The tour, which started in Rhode Island on Monday, concludes Friday in Georgia. Category 1 hurricanes the weakest level of five have caused $103 billion in damage and 175 fatalities in the U.S. during the last decade, Graham said, many of those from inland flooding. The Roanoke Rivers highest flood on record in 1985 and second-highest in 1972 both were caused by the inland effects of just a Category 1 storm, Juan in 1985 and Agnes in 1972. There is no such thing as a Hurricane Justa, Graham said. Theres never going to be a Hurricane Justa. Time and time again, officials at the event stressed the flood-related dangers of hurricanes. Lots of people conceptualize hurricanes as wind and wind damage, said Taylor Trogdon, a storm surge specialist with the National Hurricane Center. Its water that people really need to be cognizant of. Trogdon noted that Hurricane Florences storm surge last September extended 100 miles inland to New Bern, North Carolina, channeled up the Neuse River. But its a different water danger that was emphasized repeatedly for the Roanoke Valley inland flooding from heavy rain. Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem there is a lot of flooding here associated with tropical cyclones and their remnants, said Michael Brennan, a Roanoke native who has risen to be chief of the Hurricane Specialist Unit that leads forecasting within the National Hurricane Center. Hurricanes have an enormous amount of moisture wrapped up within them, said Madden, a former Weather Channel on-camera meteorologist who has flown more than 1,000 hours on hurricane reconnaissance missions himself. All that moisture tied up in a hurricane, once it makes landfall, something has to happen to it. You can get literal feet of rain. The regions recent bouts of flooding rain with the remnants of hurricanes Florence and Michael last fall were noted in opening remarks by Roanoke Vice Mayor Joe Cobb. He reminded the audience of the tragedy of the flood of 1985, spawned by remnants of Hurricane Juan, that killed 10 and caused $200 million damage in the valley. While taking hurricanes seriously even this far inland was the message, the planes were the stars of the show. The WC-130 Hurricane Hunter is a modified C-130 transport plane that can easily be converted back if needed, said Lt. Col. Jeff Ragusa, Air Force Reserve 53rd Weather Squadron aircraft commander. It carries a minimum crew of five for hurricane reconnaissance missions, though Ragusa said missions up to 14 hours in duration often require much larger crews, including up to three pilots. If youre the kind that can sleep in an airplane flying through a hurricane, we have a place for you, Ragusa joked. Airplanes often fly through winds of hundreds of miles an hour in normal duty, so the winds of a hurricane have less effect on airplane performance than what many expect, Ragusa said. Much as a boat has to alter its movement through currents of water to go the intended direction, so a hurricane hunter plane must in strong winds as it approaches the eye of a hurricane, he said. Ragusas one word to describe the eye of a hurricane was beautiful a place of calm winds and clear skies with the awe-inspiring eye wall circling around it. Neither the military aircraft nor the WP-3D Orion is mothballed when hurricane season goes on hiatus. Both are involved in training missions throughout the year, as well as other kinds of weather research and monitoring of non-tropical weather systems. The Orion, for instance, is headed to Salina, Kansas, next week to support tornado research. All of this research is done to make warnings faster, better and more precise. Please take it seriously, Madden said. Weve all heard about the little boy that cried wolf. Meteorologists live with the story of the little boy that cried wolf. But sometimes, the wolf really comes. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Michael Cohen, President Donald Trumps longtime personal attorney, claimed to have helped prevent the release of personal photographs embarrassing to Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr. shortly before the influential evangelical leader endorsed Trumps insurgent presidential bid in 2016. Cohen made the assertion, which was first reported by Reuters, in a phone call in March with actor Tom Arnold. Arnold provided The Washington Post with a recording of the call Tuesday night. Theres a bunch of photographs you know, personal photographs that somehow, the guy ended up getting, Cohen said on the call. The person who had the photos, who is not identified on the call, was demanding money from the Falwells, and Cohen threatened to report the person to legal authorities, according to Reuters. Reuters reported that the alleged episode took place months before Falwells surprise endorsement of Trump. Arnold told The Post that Cohen told him it occurred during the presidential race. A statement released by an attorney for the Falwells called the account not accurate. While the Falwells have a long-standing friendship with Michael Cohen, they never engaged or paid Cohen to represent them in any legal or other professional capacity, and Cohen did not ever resolve any legal matter on their behalf, the statement said. The attorney, who declined to be named, said in a follow-up text message that there are no compromising or embarrassing photos of Falwell, period! Lanny Davis, a spokesman for Cohen, declined to comment. Cohen began serving a three-year prison sentence on Monday for tax evasion and campaign-finance violations. Arnold, a staunch critic of the presidents, said he became friends with Cohen last summer, adding that the longtime Trump confidant sees him as an ally. Arnold said Cohen did not know that he was recording their March conversation at the time, but Arnold said that he subsequently told Cohen that he had recorded it. He said he indicated to Cohen that he would release details about the Falwell portion of their conversation after Cohen went to prison. He knows Im going to help him, Arnold said, adding: I said, As soon as you go in: Jerry Falwell Jr. Last month, Arnold provided the Wall Street Journal with his March 25 phone call with Cohen. In the phone call, Cohen denied responsibility for some of his crimes. The longtime Trump fixer said he kept a copy of one of the Falwell photos on his phone, Cohen told Arnold on their March 25 call. It is unclear what the photos allegedly depicted. Cohen described the images as photos between husband, wife, and the whole bit. I actually have one of the photos, he said on the recording. Its terrible. Falwells early support of Trump was seen as crucial, giving the candidate a key stage in front of evangelicals, an important group of voters for Trump. Falwell delivered a glowing welcome to Trump during a campaign visit by Trump to Liberty University in 2016 and formally endorsed him. His continued support for Trump after the Access Hollywood video was released was seen as critical to the Trump campaign, although some graduates returned their diplomas over Falwells support. Jesus said Judge not, lest ye be judged, Falwell wrote in an essay for The Washington Post in 2016. Lets stop trying to choose the political leaders who we believe are the most godly because, in reality, only God knows peoples hearts. You and I dont, and we are all sinners. As recently as this week, Falwell made headlines for his lavish praise of Trump. The president shared a tweet over the weekend in which Falwell declared, Trump should have 2 yrs added to his 1st term as pay back for time stolen by this corrupt failed coup. According to the Reuters report, the Falwells asked Cohen for help with the photographs around the time Cohen was working with Liberty University to promote Trumps candidacy in 2015. Cohen flew to Florida, met with a lawyer for the person with the photos and informed him that his client was breaking the law, Reuters reported. Arnold said that Cohen described the Florida trip to him. Ultimately, the lawyer told Cohen that all of the photos were destroyed, Reuters reported. I was going to pay him and I was going to get the negatives and do an agreement where they turn over all technology that has the photographs or anything like that, any copies, Cohen told Arnold on the call. And it never happened. The guy just either deleted them on his own or what have you. Along with religious leaders such as evangelist Franklin Graham and Florida megachurch pastor Paula White, Falwell is seen as one of Trumps most prominent religious supporters. He is the son of the late televangelist Jerry Falwell Sr., a megachurch pastor who helped to organize religious conservatives especially in the 1970s and 80s. Falwell has taken the school his father started in 1971 in Lynchburg and expanded it into one of the largest Christian universities in the world, with more than 100,000 students. Last year, the university released a film suggesting Trump had fulfilled a divine prophecy. One of the largest universities in the country, Liberty is seen as an innovator in online education and has become a prominent platform for politicians to visit. Trump gave a commencement address there in 2017, and Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., spoke there in 2015. Falwell is expected to welcome Vice President Mike Pence to deliver the universitys commencement address on Saturday. July 13, 1932 May 1, 2019 Doris Jean Bandy Swanson, 86, died peacefully in Durham, N.C., on Wednesday, May 1, 2019. A loving group of family, friends and caretakers were at her side. When Doris Swanson was asked what her proudest accomplishment was, she said without hesitation, that it was being a mother, and she was very proud her three children. She had every reason to believe this was her greatest gift. As "mom," Doris offered unconditional love, knew her children's strengths and interests, set rules, encouraged and lead through example. Doris was also a beloved wife, sister, aunt, grandmother and friend, with a lifetime of accomplishments. She was born in Roanoke, Va. on July 13, 1932. Her parents were Walter and Vedie Bandy. Doris first saw her future husband, Ray Swanson, when the young man delivered ice to her home on Greenbriar Street in Roanoke. They attended the same high school, but did not start dating until both of them worked at Kress & Co., a large department store in downtown Roanoke. Doris' administrative skills and hard work eventually brought an offer from Roanoke City Schools, where she accepted a position in the activity office at Jefferson High School. Ray returned from his tour of duty during the Korean conflict, and they were married in November1954. As newlyweds, Doris continued her work with the schools, while Ray completed his education, earning a B.S. Degree in Physics from Roanoke College. Once Ray accepted a position with Norfolk & Western Railroad (later Norfolk Southern) Doris became a full-time mother to three children, Ray Swanson Jr., Nathan Swanson and Jennifer Swanson, Md. In 1977, after her youngest child had entered High School, Doris was accepted into a Nursing School program to earn a licensed practical nurse degree. She graduated first in her class, winning the top student award. In 1982, after living 18 years in the Midwest, Ray and Doris Swanson returned to their hometown of Roanoke, Va. Ray retired from the railroad in 1986 and they began to travel extensively, visiting Canada, Mexico, Japan, China, Australia, Europe, and many parts of the United States. They also looked forward to the annual "after Labor Day" trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina with good friends Bill and Janet Pickle, Bill and Tootsie Ramsey, and Jim and Rachael Scott. Ray and Doris were generous and active at Woodlawn United Methodist Church in Roanoke, Va. Their grace, love and family values lead to the couple acquiring important responsibilities as church stewards. Doris is survived by her three children, Ray Swanson, Nathan Swanson, and Jennifer Swanson MD, all of Durham, N.C.; two grandchildren, Lauren Swanson and Sally Swanson, both of Chapel Hill, N.C.; brother-in-law, Walter Massie, Marion, Va.; daughter in-law, Sharon Swanson, Chapel Hill; numerous cousins and a hearty BichonFrise named Layla. Doris' husband Ray, died March 27, 2008. They had been married 54 years. Her parents and siblings also preceded her in death. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1140 West Lynchburg Salem Turnpike, Bedford, Va. A funeral service will follow in the chapel at 11:30 a.m. with the Rev. Willie Butler officiating. Interment will follow in the Nicopolis United Methodist Church Cemetery, 1158 Nicopolis Drive, (Route 784) Bedford, VA 24523. A Memorial has also been planned in Durham, N.C. on Saturday, May 18, 2019. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the Chapel in Croasdaile Retirement Village, 2600 Croasdaile Farm Pkwy, Durham, N.C. 27705. The memorial service will follow at 2 p.m. with the Reverend Denise Waters officiating. Doris Swanson remained a positive life force until Alzheimer's disease evaporated her lifetime of memories. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributing to the North Carolina Alzheimer's Support Program at Duke University Medical Center. The address is: Duke Medicine Development and Alumni Affairs, Attn: Lynda Heaney, Center for Aging Family Support Program, 710 West Main Street, Suite 200, Durham, NC 27701 (Please reference Duke Family Support Program (#3910194) in the "memo" portion of your donation). The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the kind and dedicated staff providers at Croasdaile Retirement Community who have cared for Doris Swanson since 2012. For more information: Updike Funeral Home website: updikefuneralhome.com Croasdaile Retirement Village website: www.croasdailevillage.org Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford, Va. 24523 (540-586-3304) The number one preventable cause of death in the United States, tobacco use, usually begins in youth. For two decades, prior to the arrival of electronic or e-cigarettes on the market, tobacco usage among adolescents had steadily declined. E-cigarettes, which contain a liquid composition, are loosely regulated and depicted as a healthier alternative to cigarettes. Positive publicity emerged with advertisements touting them as a potential smoking-cessation aid or as a more socially acceptable form of nicotine use. E-cigarettes were initially marketed towards adults. However, one type, popularly known as Juul, immediately exploded in popularity among adolescents due to their tiny size, appealing flavors, attractive colors, and ease of access. Teenagers are trying this nicotine product in unprecedented numbers without awareness of its highly addictive potential. Nicotine is a neurotoxin that affects brain development in young adults up to twenty-five years old. On February 21, 2019, Virginia joined four other states by passing a modified version of a law increasing the minimum age to 21 for purchasing tobacco products. Only two states, New Jersey and Oregon, have a clear, straightforward version of this law with no modifications. Although Virginias new law is a step in the right direction, it needs to be straightforward and it is not. While tobacco products have been legally sold in vending machines for years, this new law now adds e-cigarettes (specifically termed nicotine vapor products and alternative nicotine products) to the vending machine list. The only requirements for these vending machines are a posted notice of minimum age requirements and that the machine is located in a place not open to the general public, and not generally accessible to persons under 21 years of age. The term, generally, here, can be loosely interpreted and presents no more than a speedbump for teenage access. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, and Surgeon General published this information on February 15, 2019: Teen tobacco-related product use grew more than 38 percent in 2018 alone, due to e-cigarettes; it has completely erased previously made progress with teen tobacco use; the vaping epidemic among teens is directly tied to Juul. The U.S. needs to act now to prevent its own number one preventable cause of death. Expansion and enforcement of federal regulation of teen access to e-cigarettes must be implemented nationally to increase the minimum purchase age to twenty-one. Juul, a popular brand of e-cigarettes, is marketed to target adolescents. Juul represents more than 50 percent of the market for e-cigarettes in the U.S. Easily obtained by teens, Juul is sold primarily by small convenience stores whose owners are more than happy to turn a blind eye for a lucrative profit. Juul pods, which are the product-containing cartridges, look just like a flash drive, and are even rechargeable in a USB port. Due to their small size and shape, they often go unnoticed. To conceal use, students using Juul in school often implement a technique known as ghosting swallowing the vapor instead of exhaling. A Juul pod contains the same amount of nicotine as an entire pack of cigarettes and has emissions that are hard to see. They come in attractive colors like peach and teal, and allure teens with enticing flavors such as mango, bubblegum, and cheesecake. Inside a Juul pod is a concentrated formulation, which the company will not disclose, of different acids mixed with liquid nicotine which is a poison. Juul has significant adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, agitation, irritability, seizure, coma, respiratory depression and respiratory arrest. They are associated with negative psychosocial factors such as difficulty studying/concentrating, school stress, increased parent-teen relationship problems, and significant behavior and personality changes such as oppositional defiance. Because Juul is used to inhale concentrated forms of liquids, teens are replacing the contents with cannabis and other illicit drugs, Juul has become a gateway to youth drug abuse, the most concerning of which speaks to societys mammoth opioid crisis. Local efforts with community involvement from multiple angles, aimed at community education are necessary to propel progress forward. Federal regulations should mandate all states to increase and strictly enforce the legal limit for sales of all tobacco-related products to twenty-one years old. Dear aspiring engineers, I admire your work ethic and your commitment to problem-solving. I hope you will keep an open mind that sometimes, ones first choice turns out not to be the best choice, and thats okay. Studies show that 60% of first-year engineering students eventually drop out or change majors. If a large engineering university was your first choice, perhaps it is not the best one for you. At Sweet Briar College, female engineers thrive in small classes (typically 10-15 students, not 500) where faculty incorporate contemporary issues and emphasize engineering as a service profession, challenging our students to design products and processes that will enrich and benefit society. Students are required to problem-solve, plan and troubleshoot. The Margaret Jones Wyllie 45 Engineering Program is ABET-accredited and at the forefront of Sweet Briars emphasis on excellence, leadership and the liberal arts. With a B.S. in engineering science, our graduates work as mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, defense contractors, civil engineers, theater lighting engineers, sales engineers and even car designers. For their first position after graduation, approximately 80% join the workforce and 20% enroll in graduate school. I invite women who were waitlisted for Fall 2019 to Virginia Techs College of Engineering for automatic admission to Sweet Briar College so long as we have capacity. Simply submit your application and required materials (sbc.edu/admissions), along with a copy of your letter from Virginia Tech, and well expedite our response so you wont lose a minute planning the next step in one of the biggest educational adventures of your life. If you would like to visit our beautiful campus and talk with our engineering faculty, well cover your travel costs. We are confident youll have the same reaction that our current and former students describe when they first drove up the lane toward the entrance gate. This feels like home. When you graduate, youll do exactly what more than 10,000 alumnae have done before you: take what you learn into the world and lead. THREE fires broke out in the Dearne Valley within the space of 15 minutes last night (Tuesday). Arsonists set fire to a Mitsubishi Shogun at 11.15pm in Northgate, Mexborough. Dearne station attended the vehicle blaze and left the scene at 11.40pm. An accidenatal car fire broke out in Park Crescent, Bolton-on-Dearne, at 11.20pm. Firefighters from Rotherham station dealt with the Seat Ibiza blaze until 1am. Am electrical fire broke out in the loft of a premise in Windmill Avenue, Conisbrough, at 11.30pm. No-one was injured and firefighters left at 12.15pm. Capt Amarinder Singh Bathinda, May 8: Rejecting as total trash the allegations of horse trading levied by Bhagwant Mann, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday said the AAP leader was an out and out liar, with zero value for any party. Talking informally with mediapersons, the Chief Minister said Mann was making baseless allegations against the Congress out of sheer desperation in the face of exodus of MLAs, leaders and workers from his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) into the ruling party. Countering Manns challenge to name his price, Captain Amarinder said the AAP leader had `zero value. We in Punjab Congress will not let him into our party even if he begged to come, said the Chief Minister in response to a question. On people asking questions of both the Congress and the Akalis ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, the Chief Minister described it as a sign of healthy democracy. Advertisement Bhagwant Mann He was personally being asked a lot of questions, which he was happy to answer to the satisfaction of the people, Captain Amarinder said, asserting that he would fulfill every single promise made to the people of Punjab. Making it clear once again that SIT had not given a clean chit to Prakash Singh Badal in the sacrilege cases, the Chief Minister said the probe was continuing and IG Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh will be back in the SIT immediately after the polls to take it to its logical conclusion. Nobody guilty of playing such an obnoxiously divisive card would be spared, he said, reiterating that the law would take its course and all those responsible for the carnage would face punishment, whatever their position or role. On the much-delayed SGPC elections, Captain Amarinder said the polls would be held without further delay if the Congress comes to power at the Centre. The Akalis have been misusing SGPC for their personal gains and he would support anyone who is prepared to free the religious body from the SAD shackles, he added. Advertisement Harsimrat Kaur Badal Earlier, addressing a Punjab Congress workers meeting, Captain Amarinder expressed the confidence that the Congress would rout the Badals and their Akali Dal completely in these Lok Sabha elections, which he called a decisive poll that would decide the fate of the country. The Akalis in Punjab had exploited not only their own party but religious sentiments of the people to fulfill their personal interests for 10 years but were ousted unceremoniously by the people in 2017, said Captain Amarinder, calling upon the party workers to go all out to expose the deception and falsehoods of the Akali leaders, including the Badals. Bathinda had to vote out the arrogant and anti-Punjab Harsimrat Kaur Badal decisively, he said, urging the workers to put all their weight behind the Congress candidate Amrinder Singh Raja Warring to campaign against the SAD leader and union minister aggressively. The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP will meet the same fate in the Lok Sabha elections, as the Akalis had in the Assembly polls, since the people of India would never condone their divisive acts and their attempts to divide the nation on communal lines Amrinder Singh Raja Warring Sardulgarh, May 8: The Punjab Congress on Wednesday further raised the pitch in the high-profile Bathinda poll battle, with party candidate Amrinder Singh Raja Warring dubbing SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal as General Dyer-2 for the unprovoked police firing on peaceful protestors in Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura, even as Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh declared that his party would not allow the secular ideology of the nation to be destroyed at any cost. Going on a mega offensive against the Akalis and their allies, the BJP, Captain Amarinder said only the Congress could ensure Punjabs and the countrys progress and promised to fill up the 1.2 lakh vacancies that the previous government completely ignored during their tenure, which they spent misusing the government funds and resources. The Congress government in Punjab had already faciliated more than 8 lakh jobs in the state in just two years, as against the mere 40000 given by the SAD-BJP government in 10 years, he said. Advertisement Setting the tone for the partys election rally here this afternoon, Warring, who is pitted against SAD heavyweight Harsimrat Badal, lambasted Sukhbir Badal, who was then deputy chief minister and home minister in Punjab, of behaving as General Dyer 2 by ordering opening of fire on peacefully protesting Sangat who were hurt by the desecration of their Guru sahib. They then covered up the crime to save the guilty cops, he said, warning people that those who voted for the Akalis would become a part of the sacrilege too. Sukhbir Singh Badal Adding his voice to Warrings, the Chief Minister said the firings could not have taken place without permission from then CM Prakash Singh Badal. They perpetuated and covered up these shameful incidents for their political interests, he said, warning Badal that investigations into the cases will be completed soon and nobody found guilty of the shameful acts would be spared. Gunning for Harsimrat, Captain Amarinder said the way she goes around shrieking and shouting does not behoove a serious politician. Advertisement You have seen what she did in 10 years, he told the people, adding that Warring would raise their concerns in Parliament. The Chief Minister flayed Harsimrat and the other Akalis for the diversion of gunny bags to Haryana, adding that it was obvious they did not care for the farmers. His government, however, had arranged for the bags from U.P and would not allow the farmers to suffer, he declared. Seeking a vote for change and for the protection of the nations secular fabric, Captain Amarinder asserted that India belonged to all religions, which was its strength, and the Congress would not allow anyone to destroy its cherished secular values. Taking on Narendra Modi over his failure to fulfill any promise, the Chief Minister said the prime minister had been fooling people with his `jumlas, and his attempts to take credit for the armed forces victory only to divide the nation. Narendra Modi Advertisement The Modi government did nothing for any section of the society, particularly the farmers, who were reduced to desperate straits because of their anti-farmer policies. It was the Congress government in Punjab which came to the farmers rescue with the loan waiver scheme, he said, adding that Rahul Gandhi had also promised waiver of debts for farmers across the country once the party comes to power. The Chief Minister triggered an emotional cord with the people, pointing to the fact that Baba Sardul Singh, son of Baba Ala Singh, had died here, giving the place a special significance for Sikhs and his family. The Miami University John E. Dolibois European Center (MUDEC), along with the Cours Universitaire, is the oldest university program in Luxembourg, having recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018. It is also one of the oldest and most well-established study abroad programs in the United States. The programs motto is Study, Engage, Travel, as those words reflect the three main pillars of the student experience. Last night they presented the MuxLux medal to Georges M. Lentz Jr., Chief Executive Officer of Brasserie Nationale (Bofferding) and a graduate of Miami University in Ohio at an event at the Parc Hotel Alvisse. RTL/Crossfire 2019 Senator Josh Hawley has announced plans to introduce a bill to the US Senate to address and restrict the use of loot boxes and pay to win microtransactions in video games, particularly in games aimed at children. The Protecting Children from Abusive Games Act, according to a press release shared by the Missouri senator today, aims to bar games played by minors from including certain monetization schemes like loot boxes and in-game purchases that give players speedier progression or a competitive advantage. The proposed legislation comes as the United States Federal Trade Commission is also in the process of investigating loot boxes, though the first leg of that inquiry, a public workshop, isnt set to occur until this coming August. Other countries, like Belgium and the Netherlands for instance, have moved to include loot box-style monetization under gambling laws and restrict its use that way. Hawleys bill takes a more aggressive approach. It would specifically prohibit what he calls manipulative design in games targeted at players under the age of 18 and games with wider audiences whose developers knowingly allow minor players to engage in microtransactions. Aside from loot boxes, the proposed bill also takes aim at pay-to-win design, which is defined by the bill as systems that build artificial difficulty or other barriers into game progression to induce players to spend money on microtransactions to progress, as well as microtransactions that give players an advantage in multiplayer games. He calls out King's Candy Crush Saga as an example of that pay-to-win monetization, pointing out that the free-to-play game offers a $149 bundle, among several others, that gives paying players in-game currency, difficulty-aiding boosts, and 24 hours worth of unlimited lives. When a game is designed for kids, game developers shouldnt be allowed to monetize addiction. And when kids play games designed for adults, they should be walled off from compulsive microtransactions, said Hawley in a statement. Game developers who knowingly exploit children should face legal consequences. Under the proposed bill, the burden would be placed on the FTC to enforce these rules, with violations deemed unfair trade practices, and give state attorneys general the power to file lawsuits against developers with offending systems in place. One state employee watched hundreds of YouTube videos featuring recreational vehicles, crime scene footage and political or religious commentary while on the clock. Another staffer billed the state for tens of thousands of dollars in expenses as she commuted from San Diego to work in Sacramento over the course of about two years. The incidents were among several included in a twice-yearly report from the California state auditors office that highlights a variety of employee misconduct and waste throughout state government, such as using official vehicles for personal transportation and billing the government for inappropriate expenses. Our investigations found wasteful and improper travel payments, improper promotion and hiring practices, and misuse of state resources, State Auditor Elaine Howle wrote in a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom. In total, we identified about $427,000 in inappropriate expenditures. Advertisement Investigators last year began looking into an allegation that a longtime administrator in the education program at Valley State Prison in Chowchilla had been using his work computer to watch YouTube videos every day, all day long, five days per week for years while he was on the job, according to the audit. The employees internet activity showed he accessed at least 2,256 YouTube videos over the course of 10 months in 2017 and 2018. The report states that on one particularly egregious day the administrator accessed 55 videos during working hours. When we shared the administrators internet activity with his supervisor, she agreed that the evidence confirmed the poor work output she witnessed from the administrator, the report states. Further, she stated that she could not remember a week when he had worked the expected 40 hours. The employee retired before the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation could take disciplinary action against him, according to the audit. The agency does not believe he was aware of the investigation when he decided to retire. A graphic provided by the California state auditors office shows a California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation employees YouTube viewing habits. (California state auditors office) In another case, investigators found the California Department of Transportation improperly paid $41,695 for expenses a manager incurred while she commuted from her home in San Diego to Sacramento. The employee previously was headquartered in San Diego but was promoted in 2016 to a more senior position in Sacramento. Instead of moving to Northern California, the audit contends she commuted across the state and sought reimbursement for the expenses. The state pays for employees airline, train and car travel by paying vendors directly and reimburses employees when they spend money on meals and lodging more than 50 miles from their headquarters. Evidence indicates the manager should have known that her headquarters was Sacramento and that she was not entitled to the travel reimbursements, the audit states. The employee circumvented rules to fund her long-distance commute. She submitted her expenses to her former supervisor in San Diego, who approved them, even after she started reporting to a division chief in Sacramento, according to the audit. This circumvention, mismanagement, and misconduct led to violations of state law and a substantial waste of state funds, the audit states. Between February 2016 and December 2017, the woman was reimbursed $29,648 in airfare and rental car costs, $6,461 for meals, $3,198 for vehicle mileage, $1,745 for other transportation costs and $643 for lodging, according to the audit. The employee retired last year. The report suggested Caltrans document the auditors findings in the managers personnel file, investigate whether the payments should have been taxed as fringe benefits and ramp up training on appropriate travel expenses. Other findings by auditors include: A Department of Business Oversight manager provided an employee interview questions for a position the person was vying for before the interview. She was selected for the job but was demoted after the auditors investigation. A manager misused a state vehicle for his personal commute, resulting in nearly 42,000 commute miles and an estimated cost to the state of $22,500. At least five other supervisors or managers routinely misused state vehicles for commuting purposes, which cost the state an estimated $58,000. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife improperly appointed two senior management employees to positions as branch chiefs. hannah.fry@latimes.com Twitter: @Hannahnfry Firefighters working overnight in aircraft and with bulldozers fully contained a brush fire that broke out Tuesday evening at the Kern National Wildlife Refuge and chewed through 2,500 acres. The Kern County Fire Department announced early Wednesday morning the fire was 100% contained. Firefighters initially battled strong winds during the Refuge fire, which was reported to be only 60 acres at 6:14 p.m. Tuesday. By 7:12 p.m., the fire had grown to 1,500 acres. Engineer Andrew Freeborn of the Kern County Fire Department said at least 70 firefighters from the agency were on the ground, assisted during the daylight hours by aircraft, including tankers, from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire. Advertisement By 10:40 p.m., the winds had died down but the fire was still growing in multiple areas, Freeborn said. There were still a substantial number of firefighters on the ground and in bulldozers building containment lines around the fire, which was fed in part by dry grasses. #RefugeFire Update 7: Air resources have been released. @kerncountyfire firefighters are still working to contain. Approximately 2500 acres, 25% containment. #kerncountyfiredepartment pic.twitter.com/cRmOjRXdfE Kern County Fire (@kerncountyfire) May 8, 2019 The Kern National Wildlife Refuge comprises 11,249 acres of natural desert uplands, a relict riparian corridor and developed marsh, according to its website. The refuge was established in 1960 by executive order as a wintering area for migratory waterfowl and other wetland-dependent species. It is home to several endangered species, including the San Joaquin kit fox, Tipton kangaroo rat and the blunt-nosed leopard lizard. A federal appeals court says the Trump administration can force asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for court hearings while the policy is challenged in court. The order Tuesday by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse a decision by a San Francisco judge that would have blocked the policy gave the president a temporary victory on the issue. The case must still be considered by a lower court in San Francisco and could end up at the U.S. Supreme Court. U.S. District Judge Richard Seeborg ruled April 8 that the policy should be halted while the lawsuit proceeds. Advertisement Allowing the policy to remain in effect in the meantime lets the administration carry out an unprecedented change to U.S. asylum practices. The policy was challenged by 11 Central Americans and legal advocacy groups that argued it jeopardized asylum seekers by forcing them to stay in Mexico, where crime and drug violence are prevalent. Seeborg agreed and said the policy should be halted because it failed to evaluate the dangers migrants faced in Mexico. The administration introduced its Migrant Protection Protocols policy on Jan. 29 in San Diego before expanding it to Calexico and El Paso. Homeland Security officials have said they planned to sharply expand enforcement along the entire border with Mexico. The policy was introduced to deal with a growing number of asylum-seeking families from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador arriving at the U.S. border with Mexico. Under a court order, children generally cannot be detained more than 20 days, which has led to widespread releases of families almost immediately after they are stopped by authorities. The January launch followed months of delicate talks between senior U.S. and Mexican officials that culminated in dual announcements of broad outlines of the policy after a meeting in November in Houston. Both sides characterized it as a unilateral move by the Trump administration and Mexican officials have made clear that they do not endorse the policy. The three-judge appeals court panel cited Mexicos position to reject the argument that asylum seekers were at risk in Mexico. The judges said the likelihood of harm is reduced somewhat by the Mexican governments commitment to honor its international law obligations and to grant humanitarian status and work permits to individuals returned under the Migrant Protection Protocols. The American Civil Liberties Union, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Center for Gender & Refugee Studies sued over the policy. Omar Jadwat, director of the ACLUs Immigrants Rights Project, said comments by two of the judges give reason to believe that the policy will eventually be halted. Asylum seekers are being put at serious risk of harm every day that the forced return policy continues, he said. Santa Ana police detectives determined Tuesday evening that a woman found bound and gagged inside a vacant home in Santa Ana was not kidnapped. The woman, who is homeless, told authorities earlier in the day that she was abducted hours earlier close to the bike trail near Rousselle Street. But as detectives interviewed the woman, they began to find inconsistencies in her story. Based on that interview, they now know a kidnapping did not occur, said Santa Ana Police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna. The investigation has now moved to how did she get in the state the patrol officers found her? Advertisement Bertagna said the woman was found after maintenance contractors working for the city went to the vacant home at 315 E. Warner Ave. to work on the property and found a gate knocked down and a padlock that didnt belong to the city on the back door. The workers called the police, who heard moaning once they entered the home, Bertagna said. They found the woman, thought to be in her late 30s to mid-40s, in a bedroom. She told authorities she had been kidnapped by a man and forced to walk to the vacant property where she was bound and gagged, Bertagna said. Now that authorities have concluded that story isnt true, they must figure out what actually happened, he said. Bertagna said he couldnt go into details about the methods used to tie up the woman and cover her mouth because of the ongoing investigation. Our understanding is shes married, and so we know she has a life, and she was separated from her husband to go do something, Bertagna said. Now the question for the detectives is what occurred in that house. Were glad theres not a person kidnapping people off the streets of Santa Ana but now we have to figure out what happened in the house, and was it criminal in nature? Detectives could ultimately submit the womans case to the district attorney for making false criminal reports to police, he said. The city is widening the streets in the area and bought the home as part of that project, Bertagna said. The maintenance contractors were not responding to the broken gate at the home but rather were scheduled to go to the home Tuesday to perform work, he said. It is not uncommon to find homeless people sheltering in vacant homes in Santa Ana, Bertagna said. But you dont usually find them bound and gagged. A powerful bomb exploded near security forces guarding a famous Sufi shrine in the eastern city of Lahore on Wednesday, killing at least four people and wounding 20 others, police said. City Police Chief Ghazanfar Ali said police officers were the apparent target of the bombing outside the shrine known as Data Darbar, where famous Sufi saint Ali Hajveri is buried. Hundreds of pilgrims were inside and outside the shrine when the blast took place, he said. TV footage showed a badly damaged police vehicle that authorities said was the target. It seems police officers who were doing their routine duty outside the Data Darbar shrine were the target, Ali said. Advertisement He said some of the victims of the bombing are in critical condition, and the death toll could rise. Pakistanis in large numbers visit the shrine, where a pair of suicide attacks in 2010 killed and wounded dozens of people. Lahore is the capital of eastern Punjab province, which has witnessed similar attacks in recent years. When they set off for Europe with their families some four years ago, two Afghan brothers never expected a European Union country to crush their dreams in the dark of night. Their hopes were dashed when Hungarian authorities deported the two families of asylum-seekers to Serbia a few hours apart on Tuesday night altogether four adults and seven children. Night deportations are unusual, and human rights groups said no one was waiting to pick up the families on the Serbian side of the border. The U.N. Refugee Agency strongly condemned the expulsions Wednesday. Hungarys actions overnight to force two asylum-seeking Afghan families to leave the country under duress is deeply shocking and a flagrant violation of international and EU law, the agency said. Advertisement The European Court of Human Rights suspended Hungarys plan to deport a third Afghan family, according to both the U.N. agency and the Hungarian Helsinki Committee, a human rights group. Hungary tightened its asylum eligibility rules last year. One change denied petitions from asylum-seekers who traveled through countries where they were not persecuted or at risk of persecution before reaching Hungary. That would include those who took the land route through the Balkans and entered Hungary from Serbia. A teenage member of the second family ejected from Hungary after its asylum application was rejected told The Associated Press that everything was terrifying last night and both families were deeply disappointed. Speaking at a Serbian migrant camp in the border town of Subotica, Mohammad Arab, 16, said Hungarian police told his family of five they could be sent either to Afghanistan or to Serbia, where they had already spent more than two years. They treat us like we are not human, like we are animals, Arab said in English. They dont care if my mother is pregnant, they dont care about any human rights, they dont care about anything. Hungary has a double line of fences crowned with razor wire and equipped with sensors, cameras and watchtowers on its southern border with Serbia. The government has insisted several strands of electrified wiring in front of the fences are not meant to harm trespassers. The government of right-wing Prime Minister Viktor Orban added the reinforcements starting in mid-2015. At the time, the height of a mass migration wave that caught Europe unprepared for refugees fleeing Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, nearly 10,000 people entered Hungary from Serbia on some days, hoping to reach countries in western Europe. Arab said his family, which lived in Iran before starting their journey through Turkey, Greece and what is now known as North Macedonia, waited for more than two years in Serbia for a chance to seek asylum in Hungary. They didnt want to enter the country illegally with the help of people smugglers, as many migrants do, he said. The family then spent more than three months in Hungarys border migrant camp. Arab said his family felt that Hungarian authorities did not seriously consider their asylum application before rejecting it. They appealed, but in vain. Two and a half years I spent to go to Hungary, and it was useless, he said. The teen said they learned of their deportations the night before and didnt believe them at first. Reality set in when police officers arrived to take them Tuesday. My uncles wife fell down (and) started crying. My mother passed out. They took her to hospital, Arab said. The U.N. agency said staff members in Hungary observed the families crossing the border and alerted colleagues in Serbia, who in turn informed Serbian authorities. The treatment of these families, including their removal from Hungarian territory with no serious effort to look at their claims to refugee status, is deeply regrettable, U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said. Arab and his cousin, who is also named Mohammad, said human rights workers gave them the name of a Serbian refugee official to contact. The official eventually picked the Afghan families up at the border. The 16-year-old said their belief in Europes high human rights standards has been badly tested. He said they might seek asylum in Serbia, a poor Balkan country that went through a series of wars and crisis in the 1990s. We hoped to have better future and (to) study ... to be someone useful for people, not be a useless person, the teen said. I dont have my dreams anymore. ___ Associated Press writer Pablo Gorondi in Budapest contributed to this report. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Toy makers would have to tell state regulators when childrens products contain hazardous chemicals like cadmium or lead under legislation that passed the Democrat-led New York state Legislature Tuesday. If the measure is signed into law, toys containing certain materials such as toxic flame retardants would be banned outright beginning in 2023. State regulators would be tasked with compiling a list of potentially harmful chemicals and maintaining public records about the presence of those materials in toys. Supporters said the measure will protect children from the chemicals. They noted that a handful of states, including California, already have similar laws on the books. Theres well-documented evidence that these chemicals are harmful to children, said Sen. Todd Kaminsky, D-Long Island, who is the sponsor of the legislation, known as the Child Safe Products Act. I have a 10-month-old child. I watch him put everything he can get his hands on in his mouth. Advertisement Republican lawmakers questioned why the bill was needed, given federal safety standards. They predicted the bill would be difficult to enforce and could hurt the states business climate by creating new obligations for toy makers. The Toy Association, a toy maker trade group, echoed their concerns, noting that toys are already among the most heavily regulated products. Nothing is more important to toymakers than preserving the safety of children at play, Matt Lenz, director of state government affairs at the New York-based organization, said in a written statement. The bill has long been a priority for several environmental and childrens advocacy organizations but was had been held up in the state Senate until this year, when Democrats wrested control of the chamber from Republicans. New Yorks parents deserve to know what is safe for their families, but right now theyre flying blind, said Kathy Curtis, executive director of Clean and Healthy New York, a group that had pushed for the bill. The measure was one of several health and environment bills to advance in the Senate and Assembly on Tuesday. One is a proposed state Constitutional amendment that would guarantee a right to clean air and water. The proposal must pass a second time, in 2021 at the earliest, before it can go before the voters as a ballot question. Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Garcia, who has represented the 58th District since 2012, announced her congressional candidacy three days after Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard announced she wouldn't run for reelection. SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. A program celebrating women in the arts is scheduled this spring and summer at Skidmore College. The Stewarts Signature Series featuring world-class music and arts performances begins at 8 p.m. Friday with Bria Skonberg, whom the Wall Street Journal describes as one of the most versatile and imposing musicians of her generation. Following is the complete schedule. * Friday, May 10 (Bria Skonberg, Arthur Zankel Music Center). Recognized as one of 25 for the Future by DownBeat Magazine, Skonberg has been a force in the new generation with her bold horn melodies and smoky vocals, and adventurous concoctions of classic and new. Last year she performed at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center fundraiser A Night On Bourbon Street at Canfield Casino. * Saturday, May 11 at 2 p.m. (Arthur Zankel Music Center). Cherish the Ladies. Under the leadership of All-Ireland flute and whistle champion Joanie Madden named one of the Top 25 most influential Irish Americans of the past quarter century by The Irish Voice Newspaper these women create an evening that includes a spectacular blend of virtuoso instrumental talents, beautiful vocals, captivating arrangements and stunning step dancing. Their continued success as one of the top Celtic groups in the world is due to the ensembles ability to take the best of Irish traditional music and dance and put it forth in an immensely entertaining show. * Friday, June 14 at 7 p.m. (The Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery). Streb Extreme Action Company, founded by choreographer and past MacArthur Genius Award-winner Elizabeth Streb, is known for physically demanding performances that combine virtuosity, technical skill and popular appeal. Witness this company defy gravity in feats of extreme action. Elizabeth Streb is the resident choreographer at Skidmores Summer Dance Workshop and the subject of a Tang Museum exhibition curated by Dayton Director Ian Berry. This event is free and open to the public, no tickets required. * Tuesday, July 9 at 8 p.m. (Arthur Zankel Music Center) Sylvia Cuenca Quintet. Drummer Sylvia Cuenca has been sharing the bandstand with jazz legends for years. She has toured extensively with jazz greats Clark Terry and Joe Henderson among others as she mixes rhythmic righteousness. Her all-star quintet features Freddie Hendrix (trumpet), Ralph Bowen (saxophone), Gerald Gold (organ) and Paul Bollenback (guitar). * Monday, July 15 at 8 p.m. (Gannett Auditorium, Palamountain Hall) Literary readings with Margo Jefferson and Peg Boyers. Margo Jefferson, a Pulitzer Prize-winning critic and author of the memoir Negroland, joins poet Peg Boyers, executive editor of Salmagundi magazine and author of the poetry collection To Forget Venice, will read from their latest works. This event is free and open to the public, no tickets required. For more information go to: https://www.skidmore.edu/summer/events/ or call (518) 580-5321. A Yale-led team of scientists may have found a new factor to help explain the ebb and flow of Earth's magnetic field -- and it's something familiar to anyone who has made a vinaigrette for their salad. Earth's magnetic field, produced near the center of the planet, has long acted as a buffer from the harmful radiation of solar winds emanating from the Sun. Without that protection, life on Earth would not have had the opportunity to flourish. Yet our knowledge of Earth's magnetic field and its evolution is incomplete. In a new study published May 6 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Yale associate professor Kanani K.M. Lee and her team found that molten iron alloys containing silicon and oxygen form two distinct liquids under conditions similar to those in the Earth's core. It is a process called immiscibility. "We observe liquid immiscibility often in everyday life, like when oil and vinegar separate in salad dressing. It is surprising that liquid phase separation can occur when atoms are being forced very close together under the immense pressures of Earth's core," said Yale graduate student Sarah Arveson, the study's lead author. Immiscibility in complex molten alloys is common at atmospheric pressure and has been well documented by metallurgists and materials scientists. But studies of immiscible alloys at higher pressures have been limited to pressures found in Earth's upper mantle, located between Earth's crust and its core. Even deeper, 2,900 kilometers beneath the surface, is the outer core -- a more than 2,000-kilometer thick layer of molten iron. It is the source of the planet's magnetic field. Although this hot liquid roils vigorously as it convects, making the outer core mostly well-mixed, it has a distinct liquid layer at the top. Seismic waves moving through the outer core travel slower in this top layer than they do in the rest of the outer core. Scientists have offered several theories to explain this slow liquid layer, including the idea that immiscible iron alloys form layers in the core. But there has been no experimental or theoretical evidence to prove it until now. Using laser-heated, diamond-anvil cell experiments to generate high pressures, combined with computer simulations, the Yale-led team reproduced conditions found in the outer core. They demonstrated two distinct, molten liquid layers: an oxygen-poor, iron-silicon liquid and an iron-silicon-oxygen liquid. Because the iron-silicon-oxygen layer is less dense, it rises to the top, forming an oxygen-rich layer of liquid. "Our study presents the first observation of immiscible molten metal alloys at such extreme conditions, hinting that immiscibility in metallic melts may be prevalent at high pressures," said Lee. The researchers said the findings add a new variable for understanding conditions of the early Earth, as well as how scientists interpret changes in Earth's magnetic field throughout history. Additional authors of the study are Jie Deng of Yale and Bijaya Karki of Louisiana State University. The National Science Foundation and the Connecticut Space Grant Consortium funded the research. Carnegie Mellon University researchers say a smart suitcase that warns blind users of impending collisions and a wayfinding smartphone app can help people with visual disabilities navigate airport terminals safely and independently. The rolling suitcase sounds alarms when users are headed for a collision with a pedestrian, and the navigation app provides turn-by-turn audio instructions to users on how to reach a departure gate -- or a restroom or a restaurant. Both proved effective in a pair of user studies conducted at Pittsburgh International Airport. The researchers will present their findings at CHI 2019, the Association for Computing Machinery's Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, May 4-9 in Glasgow, Scotland. CMU and Pittsburgh International Airport are partners in developing new systems and technologies for enhancing traveler experiences and airport operations. "Despite recent efforts to improve accessibility, airport terminals remain challenging for people with visual impairments to navigate independently," said Chieko Asakawa, IBM Distinguished Service Professor in CMU's Robotics Institute and an IBM Fellow at IBM Research. Airport and airline personnel are available to help them get to departure gates, but they usually can't explore and use the terminal amenities as sighted people can. "When you get a five- or six-hour layover and you need to get something to eat or use the restrooms, that is a major hassle," said one legally blind traveler who participated in a focus group as part of the research. "It would be lovely to be able to get up and move around and do things that you need to do and maybe want to do." An increasing number of airports have been installing Bluetooth beacons, which can be used for indoor navigation, but often they are deployed to enhance services for sighted travelers, not to help blind people, said Kris Kitani, assistant research professor in the Robotics Institute. advertisement He and his colleagues deployed NavCog, a smartphone-based app that employs Bluetooth beacons, at Pittsburgh International Airport. The app, developed by CMU and IBM to help blind people navigate independently, previously has been deployed on campuses, including CMU, and in shopping malls. They modified it for use at the airport, where extremely wide corridors make users vulnerable to veering, and for use with moving walkways. As part of the project, the airport installed hundreds of Bluetooth beacons throughout the facility. "Part of our commitment to the public includes making sure our airport works for everyone, particularly as we modernize our facility for the future," said Pittsburgh International Airport CEO Christina Cassotis. "We're proud to partner with such great researchers through Carnegie Mellon University. Having that world-class ingenuity reflected at our airport is emblematic of Pittsburgh's transformation." The app gives audio directions to users. It relies on a map of the terminal that has been annotated with the locations of restrooms, restaurants, gates, entrances and ticketing counters. Ten legally blind people tested the app using an iPhone 8 with good results, traversing the terminal's large open spaces, escalators and moving walkways with few errors. Most users were able to reach the ticketing counter in three minutes, traverse the terminal in about six minutes, go from the gate to a restroom in a minute and go from the gate to a restaurant in about four minutes. The NavCog app for iPhone is available for free from the App Store and can be used at Pittsburgh International in the ticketing area of the landside terminal and in the concourses and center core of the airside terminal. advertisement Another team, including researchers from the University of Tokyo and Waseda University in Tokyo, developed the smart suitcase, called BBeep, to help with another problem encountered in airports -- navigating through crowds. The assistive system has a camera for tracking pedestrians in the user's path and can calculate when there is a potential for collision. "Sighted people will usually clear a path if they are aware of a blind person," said Asakawa, who has been blind since age 14. "This is not always the case, as sighted people may be looking at their smartphone, talking with others or facing another direction. That's when collisions occur." BBeep helps clear a path. A rolling suitcase itself can help clear the way and can serve as an extended sensing mechanism for identifying changes in floor texture. BBeep, however, can also sound an alarm when collisions are imminent -- both warning the user and alerting people in the area, enabling them to make room. A series of beeps begins five seconds before collision. The frequency of the beeps increases at 2.5 seconds. When collision is imminent, BBeep issues a stop sound, prompting the blind user to halt immediately. In tests at the airport, six blind participants each wheeled BBeep with one hand and used a white cane in the other as they maneuvered through crowded areas. They were asked to walk five similar routes in three modes -- one where the suitcase gave no warnings, another in which the warnings could only be heard by the user through a headset and another in which warnings were played through a speaker. A researcher followed each participant to make sure no one was injured. The researchers said the speaker mode proved most effective, both in reducing the number of pedestrians at risk of imminent collision and in reducing the number of pedestrians in the user's path. "People were noticing that I was approaching and people were moving away ... giving me a path," one user observed. In addition to Kitani and Asakawa, the authors of the BBeep report are Seita Kayukawa and Shigeo Morishima of Waseda University, Keita Higuchi and Yoichi Sato of the University of Tokyo, and Joao Guerreiro, project scientist in the Robotics Institute. Guerreiro, Asakawa and Kitani are joined in the NavCog report by Daiskuke Sato, a CMU project scientist, and Dragan Ahmetovic of the University of Turin. The National Science Foundation; the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research; the Allegheny County Airport Authority; and Shimizu Corp. sponsored both studies. The Japan Science and Technology Agency and Uptake provided additional support for BBeep. For most native English-speakers, learning the Mandarin Chinese language from scratch is no easy task. Learning it in a class that essentially compresses a one-semester college course into a single month of intensive instruction -- and agreeing to have your brain scanned before and after -- might seem even more daunting. But the 24 Americans who did just that have enabled University of Delaware cognitive neuroscientist Zhenghan Qi and her colleagues to make new discoveries about how adults learn a foreign language. The study, published in May in the journal NeuroImage, focused on the roles of the brain's left and right hemispheres in language acquisition. The findings could lead to instructional methods that potentially improve students' success in learning a new language. "The left hemisphere is known as the language-learning part of the brain, but we found that it was the right hemisphere that determined the eventual success" in learning Mandarin, said Qi, assistant professor of linguistics and cognitive science. "This was new," she said. "For decades, everyone has focused on the left hemisphere, and the right hemisphere has been largely overlooked." The left hemisphere is undoubtedly important in language learning, Qi said, noting that clinical research on individuals with speech disorders has indicated that the left side of the brain is in many ways the hub of language processing. advertisement But, she said, before any individuals -- infants learning their native language or adults learning a second language -- begin processing such aspects of the new language as vocabulary and grammar, they must first learn to identify its basic sounds or phonological elements. It's during that process of distinguishing "acoustic details" of sounds where the right side of the brain is key, according to the new findings. Researchers began by exposing the 24 participants in the study to pairs of sounds that were similar but began with different consonants, such as "bah" and "nah," and having them describe the tones, Qi said. "We asked: Were the tones of those two sounds similar or different?" she said. "We used the brain activation patterns during this task to predict who would be the most successful learners" of the new language. The study continued by teaching the participants in a setting designed to replicate a college language class, although the usual semester was condensed into four weeks of instruction. Students attended class for three and a half hours a day, five days a week, completed homework assignments and took tests. advertisement "Our research is the first to look at attainment and long-term retention of real-world language learned in a classroom setting, which is how most people learn a new language," Qi said. By scanning each participant's brain with functional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) at the beginning and end of the project, the scientists were able to see which part of the brain was most engaged while processing basic sound elements in Mandarin. To their surprise, they found that -- although, as expected, the left hemisphere showed a substantial increase of activation later in the learning process -- the right hemisphere in the most successful learners was most active in the early, sound-recognition stage. "It turns out that the right hemisphere is very important in processing foreign speech sounds at the beginning of learning," Qi said. She added that the right hemisphere's role then seems to diminish in those successful learners as they continue learning the language. Additional research will investigate whether the findings apply to those learning other languages, not just Mandarin. The eventual goal is to explore whether someone can practice sound recognition early in the process of learning a new language to potentially improve their success. "We found that the more active the right hemisphere is, the more sensitive the listener is to acoustic differences in sound," Qi said. "Everyone has different levels of activation, but even if you don't have that sensitivity to begin with, you can still learn successfully if your brain is plastic enough." Researchers can't say for certain how to apply these findings to real-life learning, but when it comes down to it, "Adults are trainable," Qi said. "They can train themselves to become more sensitive to foreign speech sounds." FLORENCE, S.C. For 2019 Francis Marion University graduate Kristin Grzech, graduation came later than most. Grzech, a 37-year-old spring graduate, decided to go back to school after working as a professional marketer in the health care field. After moving with her husband to South Carolina in 2015, Grzech said, she knew it was time to go back to school. Grzech applied to Francis Marion in 2015 to finish her degree in marketing. I went and sent in an application and actually sent in an essay, which I dont believe you have to do, but I sent one anyway, because I felt like I needed to make my case on why I felt like I deserved to be let back into college, because my early college transfer status might not have proven I was serious about it, Grzech said. Grzech said her time as a student was difficult with balancing being a mother and a wife, but she said she knows she was in the right place at the right time. It was really hard, but I think it was also very, very, very rewarding, Grzech said. Being an older student, I was able to appreciate innately all that I put into getting my education finished. Teaching still is a very noble profession, OMalley said. You wouldnt know that in the media today. You wouldnt know that by the rhetoric that is out there about education, but being here, being new in South Carolina, I have another deep appreciation for teachers and staff and what they do. OMalley presented Sharri Duncan, an art teacher at John W. Moore Intermediate School, with an award for being the Florence One Schools teacher of the year. Florence One Schools recognized 39 teachers retiring from the district with a combined 743 years of teaching. One of those teachers, Aline Edgerton, who teaches second grade at Carver Elementary School, is retiring after teaching for more than 33 years, 24 of those years in Florence One Schools. Its mixed emotions, Edgerton said. I was sitting here thinking tonight I teach so well with my colleague teacher and we teach so well together so its mixed emotions to leave her, my colleagues and the kids. Though she has mixed emotions about leaving the classroom, Edgerton said she looks forward to this new adventure. FLORENCE, S.C. A team of marketing and computer science majors from Francis Marion University was victorious in the third annual Pee Dee Idea Challenge, held last month at Coker College. FMU students Randy Chavis, Kristen Grezch and Ricki Banks combined to design and pitch a computer application called Pro-Scheduler, designed to help medium-sized and small companies schedule activities on the Android platform. A team of judges from Wells Fargo selected the FMU team the winner out of 10 semifinalists from area colleges. First prize came with a $2,100 cash prize. Winners are encouraged to pool the money and launch the idea. The Pee Dee Idea Challenge brings teams together to develop product, service and business ideas, and then present them to judges. Idea submissions must be for new, independent, student-led business ideas or ventures in the pre-launch or early stages. Student teams are then judged in a three-phase competition that allows them to pitch their business, then, eventually, to answer detailed questions about it from the judges panel. More than $7,500 in prize money was awarded during the competition, which is sponsored by Wells Fargo and the Clouse-Elrod Foundation. FLORENCE, S.C. Trees SC and Duke Energy announce the launch of the Energy Saving Trees program in Florence. The program is supported by a grant from the Duke Energy Foundation. The main focus of this program emphasizes conserving energy and reducing energy bills through strategic tree planting. Trees SC is distributing free trees along with educational materials to ensure proper planting and maintenance of the trees. Trees provide many benefits to homes and communities, including energy savings when they are planted property. As trees grow, the shade they provide will help protect homes from mid- to late-afternoon sun and can help save about 35 percent in energy costs. This program will educate homeowners on the proper placement of trees, which is typically on the west or northwest side of the housing structure. Residents will have an opportunity to pick up their free tree from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday at the Florence Farmers Market (369 W. Cheves St., Florence). For more information and to preregister for your tree, visit giveaway.treessc.org. Cologne Eric X, known as the Siegaue rapist, is to appear in court again. From 23 September, he must answer several charges, including arson. In the middle of last year, the defendant is alleged to have started a fire on the floor of his cell in the correctional facility in Cologne-Ossendorf and to have threatened and insulted prison officers. Eric X suffered serious injuries as a result of the fire. Eric X became known throughout Germany as the Siegaue rapist. At the beginning of April 2017, the asylum seeker from Ghana attacked a young couple camping in the Siegaue with a pruning saw and raped the 23-year-old woman in front of her boyfriend. In October 2018, Eric X was sentenced to ten years in prison by the Bonn Regional Court for aggravated rape and aggravated extortion. The case had to be reopened at the time because although the Federal Supreme Court confirmed the guilty verdict in the first conviction to eleven and a half years in prison, it overruled the sentence. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) Further delay in the repatriation of Canadian garbage is possible, the Finance Department said, but Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro "Teddy boy" Locsin, Jr. wants the illegally dumped trash out by May 15 no ifs or buts. In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Finance (DOF) said "bureaucratic red tape" in the Canadian government is hampering efforts to ship back the 69 container vans of garbage. "Despite the Philippine governments readiness to re-export the wastes, the Canadian government informed that it might take weeks for them to arrange the necessary documents from their end and that they might not meet the May 15 deadline, the statement read, quoting Customs Commissioner Rey Guerrero's report to Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez. He was reporting about the result of a series of meetings between the two countries' representatives from April 30 to May 6. But Locsin, the country's top diplomat, in a series of tweets said he "[does not] give two f*cks what DOF says." "The deadline is May 15. Period," Locsin said. "The President expects the garbage to be seaborne by May 15. That expectation will be met or else...," Locsin said in another tweet, without finishing his sentence. When a netizen sent a video of a toddler throwing tantrums in response, Locsin said, "No. We walk away from Canada. You don't respect us we won't have anything more to do with you. I know people on our side are hysterical at the prospect; but do we care? No." Malacanang has warned that Canada's failure to take the trash back immediately may result in severed diplomatic ties. The garbage was brought back to the spotlight as President Rodrigo Duterte threatened to go to war against Canada, but Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the President was just expressing his "extreme displeasure." Following the Philippines' warnings, the Canadian government offered to shoulder the costs of shipping the trash all the 69 container vans in one go. The DOF on Tuesday revealed that the Philippines also shelled out money for garbage inspection. "On May 3, the two sides agreed that the DENR will shoulder the costs of inspection to determine the seaworthiness of the containers of wastes, while Canada will shoulder the costs of fumigation and the transfer/trucking services," the DOF said. It did not mention any amount. A total of 103 container vans containing trash weighing over 2,000 tons were shipped to the ports of Subic and Manila in several batches from 2013 to 2014. Only 69 remained at Philippine ports since the other 34 were already disposed. Benny Antiporda, Environment Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and Local Government Units Concerns, told CNN Philippines the only thing blocking the return of the garbage to Canada was the expenses. The Manila Regional Trial Court in May 2017 ordered it should to be paid for by the Canadian private company that had it shipped. Canadian-based firm Chronic Plastics, Inc., which exported the vans, declared their contents as plastic scrap materials. The Environment department in 2014 found that the shipments contained municipal solid wastes, which should be immediately disposed and cannot be recycled. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau previously committed to finding a solution to the garbage problem, both to Duterte and his predecessor former President Benigno Aquino III. Your tax dollars at work: A report from the California State Auditor's office released Tuesday highlights a variety of California state employees behaving badly, from using state vehicles for personal transportation to getting the government to pay for things it's not supposed to. In one colorful instance highlighted in the findings, an employee at a prison in the Central Valley spent thousands of dollars worth of time on the clock watching thousands of YouTube videos that were completely unrelated to his job. ALSO: A CSU officer's nap time cost the state $16K The initial allegation against the unnamed administrator at Valley State Prison in Chowchilla (Madera County) claimed he watched YouTube videos "every day, all day long, five days per week." The man had allegedly been watching thousands of videos on state time "for many years." In a 10-month period reviewed by the auditor's office, he accessed 2,256 YouTube videos. On one "particularly egregious" day alone, he watched 55 YouTube videos. The videos mostly consisted of footage of recreational vehicles, crime footage, and political and religious commentary. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation blocks YouTube on most employee computers, but the administrator was able to access it because his work duties occasionally required him to go to some of the typically blocked sites. The man's supervisor was not shocked when she learned of his online activity: It was not hard to square with his work quality, which was, she said, "poor." 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. READ: Investigation underway after Rio Vista officer bodyslams woman The man "often revealed a surprising lack of knowledge when she asked him simple questions," and the supervisor "could not remember a week when he had worked the expected 40 hours," the auditor's office wrote. While the investigation by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation found that the man was, in fact, effectively being paid to watch thousands of YouTube videos for no discernible reason, justice was ultimately not served. Before he could be disciplined, he retired. An equipment problem that has stymied Munis new light-rail fleet is bigger than the agency originally thought, a top official said this week. Between 25 and 30 train car couplers are damaged on the new Siemens cars the red-and-silver vehicles that enthralled riders when the agency debuted them last year. Fifty-two of the vehicles have passed safety inspections, and each has two couplers to link cars together. That means nearly a third of the 104 couplers have some type of defect. The problems range from scrapes to more substantial breakage, said acting transit director Julie Kirschbaum, who provided an update to the citys main transit board on Tuesday. Muni became aware of the issue last month, after inspectors discovered broken shear pins on two cars. Since then, Kirschbaum has limited the Siemens trains to one car and confined them to certain lines, such as the J-Church. Engineers at the Sacramento-based manufacturer are scrambling to redesign the part. We are fortunate that Siemens understands how significant this is to our customers, Kirschbaum said. The company has directed a lot of engineering resources to this, she said, noting that Siemens is footing the bill for the redesign. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, which oversees Muni, also hired an independent expert to assess the coupler problem and see if there are avenues we havent explored, Kirschbaum said. She hopes to have the equipment fixed some time in June, so that Muni can start running two-car trains. The agency is grappling with huge crowds in its subway system, and the new fleet was supposed to increase its capacity. Also on Tuesday Kirschbaum provided a detailed report on the downed overhead wire that choked the subway for 13 hours on April 26. The incident was unacceptable we missed something important as part of a routine inspection, she said, referring to an overhead wire splice that had been in the subway for about three months. It broke, and the wire got caught in the pantograph of a rail car a piece of equipment on the top of the car that connects to the wire. The train continued to move, ripping down about 1,000 feet of wire that had to be replaced. We had warning indications that we could have caught in advance, Kirschbaum said, referring to the defective wire. 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. In response, she hopes to promote a culture of questioning and problem-solving, and digitize overhead maintenance records so officials can identify flaws in advance. Shes also planning a system-wide evaluation of Munis wires and tracks. Board chair Malcolm Heinicke thanked Kirschbaum for her candor and for admitting this was a preventable mistake, though he also chastened the agency for an unacceptable shutdown. I think youve hit on a bigger issue, which is that we cant keep playing whack-a-mole with this system, Heinicke said. He asked Muni officials to come up with a list of all possible issues that could cause a significant disruption in transit service. Director Amanda Eaken cited astronauts as possible role models for transit officials before traveling to outer space, they consider everything that could possibly go wrong and devise a plan to protect themselves. Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan With no other way to feed students this next school year, the San Francisco school board Tuesday approved a new contract with a school lunch company, reversing a previous vote made two weeks earlier. The board unanimously renewed the $11.5 million contract with Revolution Foods despite several board members raising concerns previously about the taste of the school meals. Board President Stevon Cook was among the four board members who rejected the contract in late April before admitting he had never tried the food. He spent a few afternoons at schools tasting the lunches, including a vegetarian calzone, which he described as not bad actually. Board members Alison Collins, Gabriela Lopez and Faauuga Moliga also initially opposed the contract renewal. Yet in the days after the vote, Cook and other board members acknowledged that without the contract, there would be no way to feed students as of July 1 and that they would have to reconsider the vote. Several students spoke at Tuesdays meeting urging the board to approve the contract, said board member Rachel Norton. I was happy to hear from a lot of students at the meeting who expressed support for the meal program and appreciation for the food, Rachel Norton said. San Francisco Unified started using Revolution Foods in 2013. At the time, it was a more expensive option than the previous vendor and considered a higher quality option. The district pays Revolution Foods about $2.50 for each of the 6.5 million meals served annually. We have made and are making continual improvements to address any concerns that have been elevated to us from the school district, especially around providing more culturally relevant menu items and menu design, said Kristin Groos Richmond, founder and chief executive of Revolution Foods, in a statement following the initial rejection of the contract. Our most critical concern right now is that many students rely on our meals as the source of their daily nutrition needs. 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. She could not immediately be reached for comment after Tuesdays vote. Board members said there is still work to do to improve the quality of meals. Everyone agrees we still have more work to do, Cook said after Tuesdays vote. Im committed to doing whatever we can to improve the food experience for students. Jill Tucker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jtucker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jilltucker A state appeals court reinstated $27.5 million in state penalties against Mercury Insurance Co. on Tuesday for charging illegal broker fees in more than 180,000 transactions with auto insurance customers from 1999 to 2004. The fines, imposed by the state Department of Insurance in 2015, were overturned in 2016 by a judge in Orange County, who said the fees had been legally assessed for insurance brokers services to customers, such as comparison shopping. But the Fourth District Court of Appeal in Santa Ana said the purported brokers were actually insurance agents, working for Mercury, who provided no customer services and had no authority to charge fees. Otherwise, insurance agents posing as brokers could charge unapproved and unfairly discriminatory fees for alleged separate services that would increase consumers cost of insurance, said Justice David Thompson in the 3-0 ruling. This is contrary to the voters intent as expressed in Proposition 103, the 1988 initiative that required state approval of rates for auto insurance and other property and casualty coverage. The fees ranged from $50 to $150 per customer. The total of the penalties is one of the largest the Insurance Department has ever levied against an auto or home insurer. The ruling was hailed by Consumer Watchdog, the advocacy group that sponsored Prop. 103 and joined the state agency in defending the fines. After over a decade of battling against Mercurys aggressive litigation tactics seeking to evade accountability for its deceitful broker fee over charges, today justice has finally prevailed, said the groups lawyer, Pam Pressley. State Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, who inherited the case from his predecessor, Dave Jones, said the court recognized that insurers cannot avoid the departments scrutiny by charging fees on top of the rates already approved by the commissioner. Mercury said in a statement, We are disappointed and surprised that the appellate court reversed the trial courts decision, and we are currently evaluating our options, including the possibility of an appeal. Insurance agents handle transactions for insurance companies, while brokers handle transactions for insurance customers. The court said Mercury, founded in 1962, sold insurance through its agents until Prop. 103 passed in 1988, but then converted about 700 agents to brokers. The brokers charged fees on auto insurance policies while providing the same service as agents who could not charge fees, the court said. The Insurance Department told Mercury in 1999 that it was violating the law, and the company then sponsored legislation that it claimed would resolve the problem. But a judge and a state appeals court, both in San Francisco, ruled the practice illegal and barred the company in 2004 from selling insurance through purported brokers who were actually agents. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes However, a company designated as a Mercury agent, Auto Insurance Specialists, continued selling insurance through brokers until it was purchased by Mercury at the start of 2009, the court said. In Tuesdays decision, the court said the 2004 appellate ruling in San Francisco foreclosed Mercurys arguments that its fees from 1999 to 2004 were legal. The earlier ruling found, conclusively, that in charging the fees Mercurys brokers were acting on behalf of Mercury, not providing a service to customers, Thompson said. Mercury had notice for years of its potential for imposition of penalties and deliberately chose not to modify its conduct. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko A pending deal to sell almost half of Park Tower, one of San Franciscos tallest office buildings, could lead to changing hands and set the new skyscrapers value at more than a billion dollars an almost unprecedented sum. But the city will get nothing from the deal, at least in the form of the transfer taxes it collects on most sales of real estate. Thats because owners MetLife, John Buck Co. and Golub plan to sell a 49% stake in the property at 250 Howard St., where the office space is fully leased to Facebook. Since less than half of the property is trading, the deal wont count as a change in ownership, exempting it from San Franciscos 3% transfer tax on deals over $25 million, said Jeffry Bernstein, a partner and tax expert at law firm Coblentz Patch Duffy & Bass. If it was subject to the tax, the city would receive more than $16 million. The deal would value the Transbay district building, completed last year, at $1.1 billion, or $1,445 per square foot, Owen Thomas, CEO of Boston Properties, said on a companys earnings call this week. That would make it San Franciscos second-most valuable building, behind only Salesforce Tower. Boston Properties isnt involved in the Park Tower deal, but it is the citys largest office owner. The company recently bought a 5% ownership stake in Salesforce Tower for $187 million from development firm Hines. The likely buyers for the Park Tower stake are Hong Kong Monetary Authority, which manages Hong Kongs sovereign wealth fund, and Hines, according to three people with knowledge of the impending deal who werent authorized to speak publicly. Property data firm Real Capital Analytics also lists the authority and Hines as the pending buyers in its database. We do not comment on the details of our investment activities, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority said. Hines and MetLife declined to comment. Thomas of Boston Properties didnt identify the buyers. But its fully leased and is being sold to a developer fund manager backed by a sovereign wealth fund, he said on the earnings call. His description matches the combination of the authority and Hines. San Franciscos office rents have risen to over $80 per square foot annually, the most expensive in the country, making cashing out through the sale of minority ownership stakes increasingly attractive. Investors have purchased minority ownership stakes in some of the citys most valuable office buildings, occupied by tech companies such as Google, Slack, Twitter and Uber. Todd Trumbull New York, the second-most expensive U.S. office market, is also seeing an increase in partial ownership sales, which arent subject to a transfer tax there, either. Partial ownership is attractive to passive investors who want income from a building, not the headaches of managing it. You have no say in the property. You dont care, said Bernstein, the tax attorney. These become equivalent to a bond investment for a Chinese investor. Last year, Facebook leased all 755,900 square feet of office space in Park Tower in the largest single lease in San Francisco history. Having a blue-chip tenant like Facebook makes the building attractive to institutional investors, Bernstein said. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes It was not immediately clear whether Facebook already occupies the Park Tower offices. San Francisco voters increased the transfer tax on property sales over $5 million in a 2016 ballot measure, in an effort to make City College free for residents. While voters can change transfer tax rates, Bernstein said any efforts to make sales of partial ownership stakes subject to the tax would have to come out of Sacramento. I dont see how (San Francisco) could amend their transfer tax ordinance. It would be contrary to the property tax rules, he said. The Park Tower deal may be subject to federal and state capital gains taxes, Bernstein said, and the owners will pay property tax. In another potential savings, a sale of a 49% stake does not trigger reassessment of the property, though because it is new construction, Park Towers assessed value will likely rise. The Hong Kong authority and Hines previously partnered with Singapores sovereign wealth fund to buy 101 California St., another major office tower. Hines has been an active developer elsewhere in the Transbay district. Along with its early involvement in Salesforce Tower, Hines also built the 33 Tehama residential building and is developing 564 Howard St., the last major Transbay tower to be built. Roland Li is a Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisf Welcome back to Tech Chronicle. Havent subscribed yet? Ive already forgiven you. Seeking forgiveness As Uber looks to raise $9 billion this week in whats expected to be the years largest public offering, one of its most troublesome legacies is Traviss Law. Named after co-founder Travis Kalanick and best defined by Uber adviser Bradley Tusk in his 2018 book The Fixer: Saving Startups From Death by Politics, it amounts to a modern startup version of the maxim that its better to ask for forgiveness than seek permission. The rule-breaking brashness that let Uber break into markets like New York, Chicago and London and establish near-global domination of the ride-hailing business is something the company would just as soon leave in the past. Kalanick reportedly wont be allowed up on the balcony of the New York Stock Exchange as the bell rings for the opening of trading Friday, a standard part of the initial public offering celebration. Uber faced tough regulatory fights in lots of cities. If we have to ask for something thats already legal, well never roll out, Kalanick said, according to Tusks account in The Fixer. Not doing this is the same thing as folding up shop. It was do or die. And Uber didnt die. Airbnb pursued a similar strategy, flouting rental rules and quickly signing up a base of local hosts and travelers. It, too, is considering an inital public offering. Most in government were caught off guard, said Jane Kim, who served on San Franciscos Board of Supervisors from 2011 to 2019, a time when startups like Uber and Airbnb tested and sometimes broke the rules. By the time the impacts were real, we were racing to catch up. But local governments are catching up, and Traviss Law is not proving as hardy as the company that gave its birth. As a result, moving fast and breaking the law is growing less popular as a business model by the day. Even Tusk acknowledges it may have been less of a maxim and more of a fluke. Most of the time, what we did with Uber isnt the right strategy or the feasible strategy, he said. If I regret one thing, it was that we let the media run with this myth that we were swashbucklers. Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle 2018 The swashes are unbuckling. Take scooters: As Carolyn Said wrote in September, Bird, Lime and Spin followed the classic game plan in dumping scooters on sidewalks without permission. The result: The city swept scooters off the streets and impounded them. When it did issue permits months later, none of the scofflaws were included. In other areas, rule-testing startups are getting batted back by officials. On-demand gasoline-delivery startups, briefly a hot field for investors, are retreating. Filld of Mountain View pulled out of the Seattle market in December after the citys fire marshal ordered it to stop handling flammable liquids. Whats more important to us is how regulators feel about what were doing, Filld CEO Michael Buhr told The Chronicles Sophia Kunthara in November. The company doesnt serve customers in San Francisco because the citys fire code doesnt allow mobile fueling. Kunthara also wrote about another startup, HomeShare, that shut down last month. HomeShare divvied up luxury apartments into smaller units with wall dividers, and also handled rent. While its still not clear exactly why HomeShare shut down CEO Jeff Pang cited financial constraints in a note announcing the businesss closure there are a host of rules HomeShare might have been breaking, from state money-transmission laws (the company held rent funds from tenants and remitted them to landlords) to local tenants-rights protections (advocates for renters have raised questions about its handling of deposit funds and disputes among roommates). Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle 2018 Venture capitalists may publicly applaud the bravado of founders like Kalanick. But privately, they look to minimize avoidable risks in their investments, and can be unforgiving when they learn a startup hasnt sought the right permissions. I thought I might have found a scooter rebel the other day when I ran into a three-wheeled electric scooter from a San Francisco company called Go X on the sidewalk in Fishermans Wharf. The companys CEO, Alex Debelov, told me the scooter likely came from the Argonaut Hotel, where dozens of Go X scooters are stationed. Signs instruct renters to return the scooters to that location, and Go X charges a $15 to $25 recovery fee when scooters are left on the street. Debelov says the city rules apply to scooters that are left on sidewalks and rented from there, not to companies that rent from private locations like Go X. Hes said hes discussed this with city officials and is impressed with how savvy they are on the issues. Owen Thomas / The Chronicle 2019 The difference between a Kalanick and a Debelov is the difference between a hacker and an engineer. The former tries to short-circuit the system; the latter looks for clever opportunities to solve a problem within constraints. And the startup world may be shifting to favor engineers over hackers. Tech is not different from any industry, said Kim, the former supervisor. Theyre not better, theyre not worse. All companies, she said, should follow the rules. We have seen the effects of rolling out the red carpet, said David Campos, another former San Francisco supervisor, who pushed for Airbnb regulation during his term. Because of that, people are more skeptical, and people are more alert. San Francisco Mayor London Breed was more direct in a recent interview with Recodes Kara Swisher: I need you to come to us before you do something thats going to impact the public. A less bombastic breed of startup founders may be willing to play by those rules. f you want to operate illegally, you can do that to a certain point until you get fined, banned or sued, said Debelov. If you do that, he added, what did you gain? Youre banned in the city, you didnt really gain anything, and you pissed a lot of people off. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes It may not have quite the same panache as Traviss Law, but theres wisdom there. Owen Thomas (othomas@sfchronicle.com) Sign Up for the Newsletter Want to get the latest on Silicon Valley in your inbox? Subscribe to Tech Chronicle. See More Collapse Quote of the week I listened to your TED talk. Apple CEO Tim Cook to then-Burberry CEO Angela Ahrendts, making the pitch for her to join the company as head of retail, from Ahrendts account of her hiring in an interview with LinkedIns Jessi Hempel Coming up Uber, Uber, Uber! The company is expected to price its initial public offering Thursday and begin trading shares Friday. What Im reading Carolyn Said explains why Uber drivers protest arent likely to slow the companys IPO roll. (San Francisco Chronicle) Geoffrey Fowler looks into just how much Amazons Alexa hears. (Washington Post) Tech Chronicle is a thrice-weekly newsletter from Owen Thomas, The Chronicles business editor, and the rest of the tech team. Follow along on Twitter: @techchronicle and Instagram: @techchronicle Paul Chinn / The Chronicle A group of 10 teenagers were detained and two were arrested Tuesday by BART police in connection with a rash of cell phone thefts, authorities said Wednesday. The juveniles were allegedly involved in six thefts, and investigators are reviewing past theft reports to determine whether they match suspect descriptions in any other cases, BART spokesman Chris Filippi said. A San Francisco man whose headless body was found decomposing in his South of Market home over the summer was violently killed before he was weighed down inside a fish tank full of chemicals, the city medical examiners office ruled. The autopsy report on 65-year-old Brian Eggs death released to The Chronicle this week, more than eight months after the gruesome discovery will help answer at least one crucial question as prosecutors decide whether to file criminal charges: Was it murder? The dismembering and disposing of a body alone doesnt necessarily prove a person was murdered, and could be charged as a misdemeanor, or not at all. But by ruling the cause of Eggs death as unspecific homicidal violence with blunt trauma, Assistant Medical Examiner Dr. Amy Hart determined someone had killed Egg before the effort to hide his body. The shocking case drew widespread attention when police found Eggs body inside his home on Aug. 17, horrifying his neighbors, family and friends, who hadnt seen or heard from him since May 2018 and had repeatedly called police to investigate his disappearance. Egg described by family and neighbors as eccentric and kind was a fixture on the small Clara Street alley where he lived. The former bartender would regularly chat with his neighbors on his daily walks with his small dog. Officers went to his home three times before finally going inside after neighbors called 911 when a crime scene cleaning crew showed up, officials said. Two suspects were arrested but later released after the district attorneys office declined to file charges, citing the need for further investigation. But even with the medical examiners ruling, the case remains complicated. The report does not say how or when Egg was killed. His body was so badly decomposed it was nearly impossible to tell for certain whether he died by another means before being put in the tank, said Dr. Judy Melinek, a Bay Area forensic pathologist who is not affiliated with the case. This manner of death determination is primarily reliant on the scene and circumstances, including facts in the police investigation, and may not necessarily rely on solid scientific evidence from the autopsy, Melinek said after reviewing a copy of the report provided by The Chronicle. The unusual case highlights the challenge prosecutors face when deciding whether to bring criminal charges when important evidence is missing or incomplete. But getting a jury to convict on murder isnt impossible in cases where an autopsy report or other investigative details are vague. Prosecutors can bring charges even in cases where they dont have a victims body by relying on other elements, like witness interviews and other physical and circumstantial evidence. On the face of it, obviously, chopping a body up and putting it in a fish tank is very damaging, said Steve Clark, a criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor in Santa Clara County who is not involved with the case. They could charge on that alone, but they wanted to see what the autopsy would show. They can still proceed on a homicide when the death is undetermined. Thats not the only investigative component. The new details in the case come as one suspect was freed last month from Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, where he was being held on a probation violation charge after being arrested on suspicion of killing Egg. Police arrested Lance Silva, 40, along with a second suspect, 52-year-old Robert MacCaffrey, around the time Eggs body was discovered. When prosecutors declined to charge the men, MacCaffrey was immediately released while Silva was sent to Alameda County. The district attorneys office likely wanted to know the cause of death before bringing criminal charges, Clark said. The last thing you would want to do is charge the case and have it be a drug overdose, he said. The defendants could have requested a preliminary hearing within 10 days and without that evidence, prosecutors could have got caught flat-footed. The district attorneys office would not say whether the autopsy report will prompt charges. The case remains under investigation, said Alex Bastian, an office spokesman. We are unable to comment at this time. Efforts to reach Silva and MacCaffrey were not successful. Before he went missing, neighbors said, Egg often had visitors at his home, and around the time he disappeared two unidentified men were living there. Police determined Silva used Eggs debit card to purchase a BMW and hired the cleanup crew that showed up at the home on Aug. 14. Two days later, investigators went inside the home and began searching. A slight odor of decay and cleaning supplies was noted, investigators Michael Suchovicki and Trish Bubnis wrote in the medical examiners report. Several spots of apparent blood was noted on the furniture. In the back yard, which was covered with bricks, a sheet was noted with brown discoloration and aged pupa. 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. In a nearby planter, they said they found bone fragments. But the most startling discovery came a few hours later when investigators moved a picture blocking a door to a small room and found a large fish tank filled with chemicals and human remains. On top of the tank was a fan blowing toward the door and laundry detergent was on the floor to possibly absorb any odors, according to the report. Additionally, investigators said, a carpet, empty bottles of Drano and an iron sawhorse were placed on the tank when removed, the body surfaced. When examined, it appeared that the subject was decapitated and both hands were not with the remains, Suchovicki and Bubnis wrote. The subjects legs also appeared severed, but the feet were found in the fish tank inside socks. ... As the subject was being manipulated and pulled out of the tank, apparent biological tissue was dislodging from the bones. Pathologists were limited by the state of the remains. The tissues were decomposed or missing, and not all organs could be identified, the report found. Much of the autopsy findings relied on examining the bones, which investigators said appeared furry and deteriorated. But two fractured ribs and a vertebra showed consistencies with blunt force trauma, which usually comes from direct blows to the chest, the report says. What the report didnt determine is whether the fractures happened before or after Egg died, Dr. Melinek noted. The rib and vertebral fractures that were detected may have occurred post-mortem since there was no associated bleeding described into the adjacent soft tissues, she said. Even if they occurred before death, these fractures could be survivable injuries and are not necessarily the cause of death. A toxicology report found no drugs in Eggs system, which may be significant for prosecutors, Clark said. The fact that there was no drugs suggest that it was more likely a homicide as opposed to a drug overdose, he said. In September, Eggs family held a vigil outside his home on what would have been his 66th birthday. The home recently sold after being listed for $1.5 million. Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky San Francisco filmmaker Kevin Epps was arrested on a charge of murder Tuesday in a fatal shooting that happened more than two years ago inside his Glen Park home, officials said. Police arrested Epps, 51, after prosecutors brought criminal charges against him in the Oct. 24, 2016, fatal shooting of 45-year-old Marcus Polk that happened inside the home on the 100 block of Addison Street. Epps knew Polk and told The Chronicle at the time that the shooting was self-defense. Prosecutors declined to file charges then, citing insufficient evidence. The San Francisco district attorneys office did not elaborate on what prompted the charges. Epps is due in San Francisco Superior Court on Wednesday to be arraigned on charges of murder, possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of a firearm with the identification numbers removed. Epps gained local fame with his gritty 2001 documentary Straight Outta Hunters Point that showed the fierce turf war between rival gangs in the neighborhood where he grew up. His next project, 2006s Rap Dreams, is a documentary about Bay Area rappers trying to break into the industry. In 2014, he released Straight Outta Hunters Point 2. Epps had a troubled upbringing in the often-violent neighborhood and had previous brushes with the law that included a prior felony strike on his record. He found an outlet behind the camera turning a negative situation into something positive, he told The Chronicle in a 2007 profile. In 2011, he was named an artist fellow at the de Young Museum and has worked with impoverished neighborhoods in San Francisco. A vocal community activist, Epps has been a figure at local protests against police brutality including the officer-involved fatal shooting of Oscar Grant at an Oakland BART station early on New Years Day 2009. 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. Few details have been released about what happened inside Epps home the day of the shooting. Epps was barred from possessing a firearm but shot Polk around 1:30 p.m., police said. He said the shooting was self-defense but he would not say what happened. His attorney, Mark Webb, did not return phone calls. Its not clear why Polk, who was homeless and knew Epps and his family, was at the home that day. He had previously been served with a restraining order in September 2016, filed by a tenant at a Diamond Heights apartment complex half a mile from Epps home. Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky A glittering alchemy theme along with a keynote by light-art impresario Leo Villareal dazzled May 3 for the Exploratoriums Party on the Piers gala celebrating 50 years of science-based inquiry and experimental fun at the beloved science museum founded in 1969 by physicist Frank Oppenheimer. Exploratorium Executive Director Chris Flink with gala co-chairs Fannie Allen and her husband, board chairman emeriti George Cogan, inspired 500 dinner guests to pledge some serious coin more than $1.8 million to fund free student field trips along with the Exploratorium education and exhibition programs. There is great vision in the Bay Area; no idea is too crazy, enthused Villareal, creator of the Bay Lights art installation on the Bay Bridge. And the Exploratorium is where impossible things can happen. A crazy kaleidoscope colored this fun-filled soiree: Earth Circus stilt walkers weaved through the crowd as acrobats twirled overhead. Grateful Dead percussionist and Exploratorium trustee Mickey Hart welcomed the Tibetan Gyuto monks for a meditative chanting session that was more soothing than any cocktail. Later, 600 more revelers landed for the Afterglow party starring Late Late Show With James Corden bandleader-beatboxer Reggie Watts (a former Exploratorium artist-in-residence) as they grazed a McCalls cocktail buffet while roaming amid sparkly, science-based visuals created by Exploratorium Photography Director Amy Snyder. Exiting into the night, one of Villareals earliest San Francisco light sculptures Buckyball (2012) glowed at the museums Pier 15 entrance on the Embarcadero. The 25-foot LED-illuminated work is an homage to famed inventor Buckminster Fuller who discovered the geodesic-shaped molecule, invisible to the naked eye. My sculpture is about making the invisible, visible, explained Villareal. Its similar to the playfulness of the Exploratoriums experimentation: setting up certain conditions and waiting for the surprise moment that results in an outcome you didnt expect. Catherine Bigelow / Special to The Chronicle Tail waggers: Adorable doggies lined a woof carpet as San Francisco SPCA supporters alighted at the Metamorphosis gala the first soiree held at the Mission campus and raised $950K for this 150-year-old humane organization. Led by event chairs gallerist Anthony Meier and his wife, Celeste, the furry fete starred an array of animal interactions, including a cuddle experience with adoptable pups along with a seated McCalls dinner, both delish and vegetarian. We adopted our rescue dog, Angus, when the SPCA helped with an airlift of pets stranded by Hurricane Katrina, said Celeste Meier, with a tease. And there are days I love my dog more than my kids and my husband. Jennifer Scarlett, president of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, announced the launch of Vision 2030, a public policy initiative to establish humane practices throughout California shelters along with medical innovation so every San Francisco guardian can afford better care for their pets. The evening also honored philanthropist J. Peter Read, an SPCA trustee and loyal supporter of the organizations humane commitment to the lives of dogs and cats. Read was instrumental to the expansion of the SPCAs Mission campus, including diagnostic equipment and a spay/neuter clinic named in honor of his late wife, Carol Ann Read. Twenty-two years ago I lost a very special lady, Read said. But she asked me to follow in her paw prints and give the SF SPCA as much as I could. I followed my wifes instructions and came to realize, I mustve been a doggie or a cat in another life. The more time you spend with these furry creatures, the better person you become. Catherine Bigelow / Special to The Chronicle Vive la S.F.: As Protocol Chief Charlotte Shultz watched harrowing images from Paris of the devastating April 15 fire ravaging Notre Dame Cathedral, she immediately got on the phone to French Consul General Emmanuel Lebrun-Damiens, Paris Sister City chairman Tom Horn and the Rt. Rev. Marc Andrus, the Episcopal bishop of California, whose office is housed on the grounds of Grace Cathedral an architectural homage to Notre Dame. What can we do? Shultz recalled asking. Weve got to do something! 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. And in just one week, Shultz did it along with a roster of civic boosters and eminent musicians who raised the flag for Paris, a sister city of San Francisco presenting a free public solidarity concert at Grace in support of Notre-Dame de Paris. Stars such as mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade, American Bach Soloists musicians and Grace Cathedrals Choir of Men and Boys wowed the 5,000 standing-room-only crowd inside the cathedral. Outside, hundreds more gathered atop Nob Hill listening to the concert via simulcast, cheering loudly for organist Johann Vexo, who had been at the pedals of the mighty Notre-Dame de Paris organ when the first fire alarm sounded. Later, during a reception at the Fairmont Hotel, he beamed with relief: The organ is not damaged! But when we return, it will need a bit of tuning. Yet this concert wasnt just to mourn a monument. Bishop Andrus noted the Notre Dame fire followed the burning of three Louisiana churches and preceded horrific Easter Week and Passover attacks in Sri Lanka and Poway (San Diego County). He encouraged guests to donate to a new Grace initiative (www.diocal.org/notredame) that funds all these places of worship. Paris, like San Francisco, is a resilient city. And to the 60,000 people of French heritage living in the Bay Area, we stand with you, said Mayor London Breed. Here in San Francisco, diversity is our strength. And we remain committed to being a safe place for people of all religions, sexual orientation and all nationalities. Consul General Lebrun-Damiens eloquently expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support hed received. Notre Dame, our lady, is the embodiment of the mother. And faced with the possibility of her destruction, we suddenly realized how much this elderly lady meant to us, he said. Yet in the midst of our dismay, messages of your support reminded us that in our love for this mother, we have a sister: San Francisco, the Paris of the West. Catherine Bigelow is The San Francisco Chronicles society correspondent. Email: missbigelow@sfgate.com Instagram: @missbigelow A federal appeals court on Tuesday allowed the Trump administration to send asylum-seeking immigrants, who cross the southern border into the United States, back to Mexico while their cases are under review. The 2-1 ruling by the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco was not a final decision on the policy, but allows the Department of Homeland Security to continue enforcing it during court challenges. Since January, the department has required thousands of asylum applicants to wait south of the border while immigration judges decide whether they have a legitimate fear of persecution if returned to their home country. But one member of the majority, Judge Paul Watford, said in a separate opinion that before sending asylum seekers south, officers should be required to ask them whether they fear harm in Mexico. Failure to make that inquiry could put the United States in violation of a treaty prohibiting a nation from sending a refugee to any country where his or her life or freedom would be threatened, Watford said. The dissenting judge, William Fletcher, said the entire policy was illegal and should be halted. The ruling came in a suit by 11 Central Americans who said they had faced rape and death threats in their home countries and had been physically and verbally assaulted since being sent from the U.S. to Mexico. They are represented by the American Civil Liberties Union. Asylum seekers are being put at serious risk of harm every day that the forced-return policy continues, ACLU attorney Omar Jadwat said Tuesday. He said the divided panel gives reason to believe the policy will ultimately be overturned. The policy mainly affects undocumented immigrants fleeing violence in Central America. For those who convince an asylum officer that they have a credible fear of persecution if returned to their homeland, past administrations had allowed them to enter the U.S. while awaiting a final ruling from immigration courts, which can take a year or more. The new policy keeps them in Mexico, where advocates say they face dangerous conditions. U.S. District Judge Richard Seeborg of San Francisco ruled April 8 that the back-to-Mexico policy violated federal law, which in his view allowed immigration officers only to hold such asylum applicants in detention or to release them. The appeals court, however, quickly issued a stay that prevented Seeborgs nationwide injunction from taking effect. In Tuesdays ruling, Watford and Judge Diarmuid OScannlain agreed with the Trump administration that federal law authorizes the new policy. While awaiting a hearing before an immigration judge, applicants for admission who are placed in regular removal proceedings ... may be returned to the contiguous territory from which they arrived, said Watford, an appointee of President Barack Obama, and OScannlain, appointed by President Ronald Reagan. Watford said in his separate opinion that Seeborg had gone too far by trying to block the entire back-to-Mexico policy, but should issue a narrower injunction requiring immigration officers to determine whether a migrant fears persecution or torture in Mexico. Watford said many immigrants were apparently unaware that such fears would entitle them to remain in the U.S. while their cases were pending. Im at a loss to understand how an agency whose professed goal is to comply with (the treaty against sending immigrants to places of persecution) could rationally decide not to ask that question, Watford said. Fletcher, an appointee of President Bill Clinton, said the majority had misread the law and put asylum seekers in danger. The ... applicants targeted by the (policy) are innocent victims fleeing violence, often deadly violence, in Central America, Fletcher said. He said the government presented baseless arguments in support of an illegal policy that will, if sustained, require bona fide asylum applicants to wait in Mexico for years while their applications are adjudicated. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko WASHINGTON - President Donald Trump asserted executive privilege over special counsel Robert Mueller III's report Wednesday, his first use of the executive authority in the ongoing constitutional clash with Congress that the courts ultimately may resolve. The administration's move to deny Congress - and the broader public - Muller's complete report from the nearly two-year investigation came just hours before the House Judiciary Committee voted along party lines to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for ignoring a congressional subpoena. "We have talked for a long time about approaching a constitutional crisis; we are now in a constitutional crisis," House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., said moments after the contempt vote. "Now is the time of testing whether we can keep this type of republic, or whether this republic is destined to change into a different, more tyrannical form of government." Democrats have been hoping to review Mueller's findings - and determine whether they should impeach the president - by examining the underlying evidence the special counsel gathered and hold congressional hearings with key witnesses Mueller interviewed. But the Justice Department has refused to relinquish much of that information, despite a congressional subpoena. Trump and Republicans have cast Democrats as overzealous and unwilling to accept Mueller's report, which did not establish a conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, which interfered in the 2016 election. "The American people see through Chairman Nadler's desperate ploy to distract from the president's historically successful agenda and our booming economy," said White House press secretary Sarah Sanders. "Faced with Chairman Nadler's blatant abuse of power, and at the attorney general's request, the president has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege." The White House's invocation of the presidential secrecy prerogative stood in stark contrast to Trump's frequent boast of "total exoneration" from the Mueller report. Democrats have argued that if Trump truly had nothing to hide, he and Barr wouldn't be blocking so many of their investigations - including Mueller's complete findings. "He has never acted like a person with nothing to hide," said Rep. Katherine Clark, D-Mass., a member of House Democratic leadership. "I mean, everything he does is trying to escape and stonewall and delay!" Democrats could vote as early as next week on the Barr contempt citation, according to an individual familiar with internal discussions who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the timeline has not been finalized. That vote would enable House counsels to take Barr to civil court and try to persuade a judge to force him to release Mueller's evidence, one of many high-stakes legal fights between the executive and legislative branches. Democrats are also preparing to sue the Trump administration for refusing to turn over Trump's tax returns and potentially former Trump aides like ex-White House counsel Donald McGahn if they refuse to comply with subpoenas. McGahn was a key witness in Mueller's probe, but the White House has said it would assert privilege to bar his testimony. Trump's lawyers called Congress' demands for his tax returns flatly unconstitutional Wednesday in another lawsuit, this one filed by Trump and his businesses urging a federal judge in Washington, District of Columbia, to block a House Oversight Committee subpoena to his accounting firm for years of his financial statements. Trump's legal team said Congress has no "legitimate legislative purpose" in investigating his past personal dealings. Even if it did, legislation demanding his tax returns and similar proposals "to regulate the President's finances would be unconstitutional. Congress cannot interfere with the Executive's execution of his duties, or add qualifications for President," wrote Trump's attorneys, led by William S. Consovoy of Arlington, Virginia. Trump's no-cooperation stance creates a conundrum for Democrats as their investigations stall and they face the reality that court proceedings could drag on for months or years. Some Democrats are losing patience, and increasingly several investigators are talking about using their "inherent contempt" authority under the Constitution that would enable them to fine officials who refuse to cooperate or seek other immediate punishments to force compliance. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said Wednesday that Trump is "becoming self-impeachable" because of all his efforts to fight congressional investigations, though she has remained firm in her resistance to initiate impeachment proceedings ahead of the 2020 election. "The point is that every single day, whether it's obstruction, obstruction, obstruction - obstruction of having people come to the table with facts, ignoring subpoenas . . . every single day, the president is making a case - he's becoming self-impeachable," Pelosi said at a Washington Post Live event. In a lengthy statement after the contempt vote, Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said Barr "could not comply with the House Judiciary Committee's subpoena without violating the law, court rules, and court orders, and without threatening the independence of the department's prosecutorial functions" and asserted that Nadler "short-circuited" negotiations with the contempt vote. "It is deeply disappointing that elected representatives of the American people have chosen to engage in such inappropriate political theatrics," Kupec said. The White House's assertion of privilege was broad - covering all of the underlying materials from Mueller's investigation, such as reports of interviews and notes of witnesses, as well as the entire, unredacted Mueller report. Some legal experts argued the White House and attorney general were simply stalling, making a dubious claim of privilege over the Mueller report they have intensively reviewed to put off a fight in court. The Justice Department considered it important for the White House to assert executive privilege before the House voted on contempt because, in its view, doing so would effectively invalidate the citation, the person familiar with the matter said. It believed that Barr could not be legitimately held in contempt for withholding materials over which the president had asserted executive privilege, the person said. But if anything, Barr's move only redoubled Democrats' insistence to press ahead with contempt. During a day-long hearing, Democrats criticized the use of privilege as illegitimate because much of the Mueller report has already been made public - and because Trump allowed his aides to cooperate with the special counsel months ago. "Executive privilege is not a cloak of secrecy that drapes across our nation's capital from the White House to the Justice Department," said Rep. Ted Deutch, D-Fla. "Yet, last night, the attorney general threatened a blanket privilege claim over materials that he knows are not privileged as retribution for the markup we are holding right now." Barr released a redacted, 448-page version of the Mueller report on April 18. House Democrats have pressed for the full report because Mueller did not make a decision on whether Trump obstructed justice, and some legal analysts have said he appeared to leave the matter to Congress. The move to hold Barr in contempt represented just the second time in history that a sitting attorney general would be held in contempt of Congress; the Republican-led House admonished Attorney General Eric Holder in 2012 over his failure to provide documents to GOP investigators. During the Judiciary panel session, Republicans used their time to defend Barr's name and tried to divert the conversation to the origins of the Russia investigation, accusing the FBI of being guided by anti-Trump bias. "I think it's all about trying to destroy Bill Barr because Democrats are nervous that he's going to get to the bottom of everything," said Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio. Rep. Douglas Collins of Georgia, the top Republican on the committee, argued the Barr contempt citation was premature, noting that Republicans waited much longer to hold Holder in contempt than Democrats had with Barr. 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. "Why this rush?" he asked. "Without any valid legislative or administrative reason, we can only assume Democrats, led by the chairman, have resolved to sully Bill Barr's good name and reputation." Barr sent a written request to Trump on Wednesday morning, asking him to assert privilege because the Judiciary Committee had "declined to grant sufficient time" for the Justice Department to review the Mueller materials, which included law enforcement information, information about intelligence sources and methods and grand jury material that would be illegal to release. "In these circumstances," Barr wrote, "you may properly assert executive privilege with respect to the entirety of the Department of Justice materials that the committee has demanded, pending a final decision on the matter." Republicans seemed to seize on that reasoning at the hearing Wednesday to discuss the citation. "You cannot be in contempt for failing to produce what would be illegal to produce without a court order," said Rep. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas. Democrats responded that they were not asking Barr to break the law at all. They had implored him for months to join them in going to a court to get permission from a judge to release grand jury information protected under the law, as was done during the Watergate scandal and for Kenneth Starr's report on President Bill Clinton. Barr, however, refused. The immediate effects of the White House move to claim executive privilege over the report were not entirely clear for Congress. House Democrats had plans to subpoena key witnesses mentioned in Mueller's report, and some wondered whether such a claim could undermine their bid to receive documents and testimony. Nadler, in an interview on CNN Wednesday, indicated that he was less confident that Mueller would testify to Congress: "I think the president will try to stop Robert Mueller." A Justice Department official said that the assertion of executive privilege Wednesday has "no direct bearing on Special Counsel Mueller's testimony," the date and terms of which are still being discussed. But the move could limit what Mueller can say indirectly, by putting particular subject areas off limits. While Mueller has completed his report, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee is continuing its probe. The panel has issued a subpoena to Donald Trump Jr., the president's son, seeking additional closed-door testimony as part of its inquiry, according to people familiar with the summons. Trump Jr. has been a focus of several probes over his involvement in a June 2016 meeting at Trump Tower with a Russian lawyer who promised dirt on the Hillary Clinton campaign. Congressional Democrats believe that, during his previous turns on Capitol Hill, Trump Jr. may have lied to investigators about that meeting and whether he told President Trump that the meeting would take place. - - - The Washington Post's Karoun Demirjian and Ashley Parker contributed to this report. LOS ANGELES, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP (GPM) announces an investigation on behalf of Mueller Water Products, Inc. (Mueller Water Products or the Company) (NYSE: MWA ) investors concerning the Company and its officers possible violations of federal securities laws. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. On April 27, 2017, Mueller Water Products issued a press release entitled Mueller Water Products Reports 2017 Second Quarter Results. Therein, the Company disclosed that certain of Mueller Technologies products had been failing prematurely, resulting in a $9.8 million warranty charge. On this news, the Companys share price fell $1.43 per share, more than 11%, to close at $11.25 per share on April 28, 2017, on unusually heavy trading volume. Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/GPM_LLP . If you purchased Mueller Water Products securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Lesley Portnoy, Esquire, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, by email to shareholders@glancylaw.com , or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com . If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number and number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. TORONTO, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Teranga Gold Corporation (Teranga or the Company) (TSX:TGZ; OTCQX:TGCDF) today announced that each of the nine nominee directors listed in the Management Proxy Circular dated April 3, 2019 were elected as directors of the Company at its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (the Meeting) held earlier today in Toronto. At this Meeting, 72,470,610 shares were voted, representing 67.36% of the Companys issued and outstanding common shares. The voting results for all matters brought forth at the Meeting are set out below: Election of Directors Name Votes For % Votes For Votes Withheld % Votes Withheld Alan R. Hill 60,791,771 94.05% 3,848,760 5.95% Richard S. Young 63,889,577 98.84% 750,954 1.16% Christopher R. Lattanzi 63,815,389 98.72% 825,142 1.28% Jendayi E. Frazer 63,815,557 98.72% 824,974 1.28% Edward Goldenberg 63,890,993 98.84% 749,538 1.16% David J. Mimran 64,435,901 99.68% 204,630 0.32% Alan R. Thomas 63,887,172 98.83% 753,359 1.17% Frank D. Wheatley 62,284,432 96.36% 2,356,099 3.64% William J. Biggar 63,887,389 98.83% 753,142 1.17% Appointment of Auditor Name Votes For % Votes For Votes Withheld % Votes Withheld Ernst & Young LLP 70,392,353 97.13% 2,078,257 2.87% About Teranga Teranga is a multi-jurisdictional West African gold company focused on production and development as well as the exploration of approximately 6,400 km2 of land located on prospective gold belts. Since its initial public offering in 2010, Teranga has produced more than 1.7 million ounces of gold at its Sabodala operation in Senegal. Focused on diversification and growth, the Company is in the final construction phase of its second producing gold mine, Wahgnion, which is located in Burkina Faso, as well as carrying out exploration programs in three West African countries: Burkina Faso, Cote dIvoire and Senegal. The Company had more than 4.0 million ounces of gold reserves as of June 30, 2018. Teranga applies a rigorous capital allocation framework for its investment decisions and is focused on funding future organic growth plans responsibly. Steadfast in its commitment to set the benchmark for responsible mining, Teranga operates in accordance with the highest international standards and aims to act as a catalyst for sustainable economic, environmental, and community development as it strives to create value for all of its stakeholders. Teranga is a member of the United Nations Global Compact and a leading member of the multi-stakeholder group responsible for the submission of the first Senegalese Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative revenue report. Contact Information Richard Young President & CEO T: +1 416-594-0000 | E: ryoung@terangagold.com Trish Moran Head of Investor Relations T: +1 416-607-4507 | E: tmoran@terangagold.com San Francisco is on the verge of becoming the first U.S. city to ban the governmental use of facial recognition technology, and Oakland isnt far behind. On Monday, the Rules Committee of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted unanimously for an ordinance that would block city agencies, including the police, from obtaining facial recognition gear or using any information captured by it. The full board will vote on the ordinance as soon as next Tuesday. Oakland is weighing a similar measure. Democratic oversight of surveillance technology promotes public safety and protects our civil rights, Matt Cagle, an attorney with the ACLU of Northern California, said in a statement after the Monday vote. The ACLU has been working to stop government use of the technology. Facial recognition a biometric software application capable of recognizing the unique features of a person by their facial contours may be a relatively new technology, but its a lightning rod for arguments about privacy in the U.S. Its widely used in China for surveillance purposes by the state. In the U.S., law enforcement agencies have been pushing for its adoption, but other businesses like the travel industry are also experimenting with it. But there are many reasons why local governments are wise to move slowly on facial recognition. For one thing, the technology is alarmingly imperfect, often misidentifying minorities and women. Thats a dangerous prospect when it comes to crime-fighting, and it also has the potential to amplify racial discrimination. For another thing, Bay Area residents are strongly skeptical of this potential extension of government surveillance into their lives. In a March poll of likely voters in the Bay Areas nine counties, 79% of respondents disapproved of the government being able to monitor and track someone using biometric information. Neither piece of legislation would address private use of the technology, which means that privacy advocates will still have plenty of work to do. But by considering the will of the voters and their well-earned right to privacy, San Francisco is providing an example for the rest of the country. 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. San Franciscos tech world is a blessing and an inviting target for a city experiencing the pangs of prosperity. Fetid streets, sky-high rents and clogged traffic need financial answers in a city exploding with startup success stories. Now this dilemma is getting a quick-grab answer: a tax on a wave of initial stock offerings hitting the market and generating a flock of overnight multimillionaires. The numbers are unpredictable due to stock market gyrations, but its an opportunity for Supervisor Gordon Mar to float a here-only IPO tax. How much will roll in, how it will be spent and its political chances arent known. Deep-set problems need well-calibrated solutions. What they dont need is a simple-sounding, business-punishing levy that may or may not make even a dent in income inequality. IPOs by their nature are one-time shots, meaning the revenue isnt dependable. Firms already hampered by the high cost of operations here will have another reason to expand or relocate elsewhere. Tacking on a tax needs more explanation than righteous anger over lopsided incomes. The need for a two-thirds ballot box approval is a major obstacle. Flawed as it is, the plan could be useful if it motivates tech leaders to offer concessions that soften the undoubted impacts of their businesses. It could speed up City Halls prioritization of homeless programs and housing construction starts. San Francisco should take a long look at itself. The citys budget is due to pass the $11 billion mark, an ever-rising number fueled by tax collections from sales, real estate transfers and payrolls, much of it from the tech industry. The jobless rate is 2.1%, a figure never reached before. A big-business tax to improve homeless services and expected to yield $300 million annually won an overwhelmingly majority, though its under legal challenge. Throwing on a new tax makes no sense in a roaring economy and atmosphere of awareness and change. San Francisco supervisors can stop the IPO tax if it comes to a vote, heading off a divisive and longshot ballot measure. Then they could work on San Franciscos manifold problems without creating villains and relying on simplistic answers. 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. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Evermount Ventures Inc. (the Company) (TSXV NEX: ETV.H) is pleased to announce the voting results from its 2019 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on April 26, 2019 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Prior to the AGM, Gee Ming Chiang indicated to the Company that he would decline to be re-elected as a director of the Company. After nomination from the floor at the AGM, the following directors were elected to hold office for the ensuing year: Wenhong Jin Gong (Michael) Chen Jin Kuang Shareholders also approved all of the other motions put forth at the AGM, including to re-appoint Smythe Ratcliffe LLP as auditors of the Company for the ensuing year and re-approve the Companys stock option plan. Subsequent to the AGM, the Board also appointed Jin Kuang to serve as the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the Company. About Evermount Capital Corp. Evermount Capital Corp., a capital pool company within the meaning of the Policy of the TSXV, was incorporated in British Columbia on April 16, 2012 and listed on the TSXV on December 21, 2012. It does not have any operations and has no assets other than cash. Evermounts business is to identify and evaluate businesses and assets with a view to completing a qualifying transaction (as such term defined in the Policy) within 24 months of listing. As Evermount was unsuccessful in completing a Qualifying Transaction prior to the deadline, effective January 19, 2016, Evermounts listing was transferred to the NEX board of the TSXV. For further information, please contact: Jin Kuang Chief Executive Officer and Director Telephone: (604) 339-7688 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility of the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. On Monday, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors Rules Committee will at long last take up whether San Francisco should implement Senate Bill 1045, a state law on conservatorships. A conservatorship is a legal action where a judge appoints a protector to manage the financial affairs and/or daily life of a person who does not currently have the capacity to take care of themselves. The new law allows conservatorships for a tiny number of people suffering from a combination of mental health and substance-use disorders who would not otherwise quality for a traditional conservatorship. The state legislation, authored by state Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, and signed into law last year, requires each county to vote on whether to adopt it. To hear its loudest opponents tell it, SB1045 is an abomination: at worst, a deprivation of civil liberties on par with the death penalty; at best, the abandonment of Californias decades-long commitment to de-institutionalize care for mentally ill individuals. In truth, the law is a modest step. Conservatorships are not new for more than 50 years the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act has set the legal standard under which counties may conserve residents gravely disabled by a severe mental illness. Yet, in the eyes of many, Lanterman-Petris-Short has fallen short. Generations of family members and clinicians have chafed against a standard that, as interpreted by some judges, has seemed to exclude too many very sick people from potential conservatorship. Furthermore, Lanterman-Petris-Short makes no provision for individuals suffering from serious substance-use disorder, an increasing challenge for our public health system. For example, methamphetamine use is on the rise in San Francisco, especially among unhoused people suffering from untreated mental illness. Between 2016 and 2017, 54% of homeless patients at San Francisco General Hospitals Psychiatric Emergency Services were suffering from a meth-use disorder. Many of these individuals are using emergency services multiple times each year. The trouble is that no matter how many times meth-induced psychosis may land the same individual in the hospital or jail, that individual can continue to refuse help. Lanterman-Petris-Short does not allow the city to do anything about it. Too many sick people simply continue on this relentless, expensive and tragic merry-go-round until it ends in death or permanent mental disability severe enough to finally merit a traditional conservatorship. SB1045 opponents argue that we need to expand access to voluntary mental health services, that it would be cheaper and more humane to address behavioral health and substance use issues before they become a crisis. I could not agree more. Implementation of SB1045 should free up more resources for preventive and voluntary services, as fewer resources will be spent managing the merry-go-round. But expansion of voluntary services alone will do nothing to bring the hardest-to-reach, sickest people into care. The response from the critics? A rhetorical shrug of the shoulders. Critics also argue that SB1045 is not worth implementing because it will only impact a few people. The irony here is that Sen. Wiener limited the reach of SB1045 specifically to respond to their criticisms. As a result, any SB1045 conservatorship must meet a number of objective and subjective tests: The individuals considered for conservatorship must suffer from both a serious mental illness and a substance use disorder; The individuals must have been placed on an involuntary psychiatric hold at least eight times in the prior year; The county must have tried other less restrictive alternatives; and A judge must determine that establishing a conservatorship is the least restrictive and most clinically appropriate means to provide for the proposed conservatees care. These requirements, appropriately, set a high bar. The law may apply to fewer than 10 people a year. Nonetheless, San Francisco should seize every tool it is offered to save lives and minds. Some might reasonably wonder why SB1045 has stirred such passionate opposition. I believe that the answer lies in a deeper disagreement about the appropriateness of involuntarily treating sick people whose illness prevents them from seeking or accepting appropriate care and treatment. To be sure, depriving adults of their liberty, even for limited periods of time and under judicial supervision, should never be done lightly. But sometimes it must be done. SB1045 strikes an appropriate balance, and its modest scope will allow us to test whether more assertive public health responses to severe substance-use disorder can be effective. We should all hope the answer is yes. Rafael Mandelman represents District Eight on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. When Wine Country begins streaming on Netflix on May 10, it joins the relatively small club of high-profile movies set in Wine Country a club that pretty much consists of Sideways, Bottle Shock, A Walk in the Clouds, The Parent Trap and that one episode of I Love Lucy where she stomps grapes. (With the exception of the Lucy episode, which is set in Italy, all of these are set in California.) And, of course, when a new wine movie comes out, its the job of those of us who write about wine for a living to pick it apart for technical accuracy. Were still not over the major, plot-defining error in Sideways, for example: that Miles purports to hate f Merlot, but then drinks a bottle of it. (Not just any Merlot. A really good Merlot. 1961 Chateau Cheval Blanc. Yep, still not over it.) The new comedy whose all-star female cast includes Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, Tina Fey, Maya Rudolph and Ana Gasteyer has a lot of verisimilitude points going for it. It was mostly filmed on location in Napa Valley, and there are some great glamour shots of downtown Calistoga and scenes at three real wineries. (Most indoor scenes were filmed on set in Los Angeles.) [See also: A list of all the wineries in Wine Country.] Best of all, Wine Country was based on real life: Co-writers Liz Cackowski and Emily Spivey wrote the screenplay after their whole group took a trip to Napa for Rachel Dratchs 50th birthday, exaggerating some elements for comic effect. There really was a tarot card reader. But does Wine Country really get Wine Country? Before you get your hopes up about hiring Jason Schwartzman as your chauffeur and private chef on your next ladies trip, its time for us to get nitpicky. Heres our take on what the film got right about the experience of going wine tasting in Napa Valley and what it got wrong. Right or wrong? Wineries are desperate for you to join their wine clubs. Right. As the women are leaving their first winery visit, to Artesa, the sommelier (played by Craig Cackowski) calls out to them, Would love to get your names and socials for our wine club! No, wineries dont typically need your social security number (or social media handle) in order to sell you some wine, but they can be pretty pushy sometimes about getting you to commit to their regular quarterly shipments. Bonus: The Artesa scene does a great job of exposing the inane specificity of wine-tasting descriptors that get thrown around at tasting rooms. The sommelier asks Amy Poehler and Rachel Dratchs characters what flavors they taste in the wine, assuring them there are no wrong answers, but when Dratch volunteers canned peaches he promptly shuts her down. Ive never actually heard a winery employee call a customers tasting note egregious, but I have been to plenty of tasting rooms where conversing with the staff can feel like a pop quiz in naming obscure fruits and herbs. Santiago Mejia / The Chronicle Right or wrong? Organic wineries dont let you walk through their vineyards. Wrong. In the film, the characters visit the fictional Morgan Jorng winery, a crunchy-granola organic operation where owner Lisa (Liz Cackowski) tries to get customers to guess how much energy the winerys solar panels conserve and quizzes them on the technical term for the sediment at the bottom of the bottle. (Her answer: tartrates, or as Lisa likes to call them, wine diamonds. Shes right that tartrates are one type of solid matter you might find in an unfiltered, unfined wine, though theyre not the only type. Well let this one pass.) Lisa also prohibits the thirsty guests from walking in the vineyards. Why? Because theyre organic, she says, which makes no sense. Is she worried their shoes might track in what, Roundup? While there might be any number of reasons a winery would want to keep visitors out of the vineyard drunk people might inadvertently damage the vines, for instance organic farming isnt one of them. At Baldacci Family Vineyards, where the Morgan Jorng scene was filmed, guests arent allowed in the vineyards, but its mostly out of a liability concern, says general manager Kellie Duckhorn. They dont want guests tripping on farming equipment. Right or wrong? Napa locals drink Budweiser when they go out. Right. Or Modelo, or PBR, or any cheap, mass-produced beer of your choice. In the film, when Catherine (Ana Gasteyer) has gotten fed up with her friends, she retreats to a dive bar, where she finds their rental-home host Tammy (Tina Fey) putting back a bottle of Bud. Sure, that might seem like a sacrilegious beverage choice in Americas premier region for Cabernet Sauvignon, but a survey of any Napa Valley dive bar will reveal that plenty of locals especially those who taste Cabernet all day as part of their jobs relish the chance to drink an ice-cold beer. Now if only theyd filmed the dive bar scene at Panchas in Yountville. John Storey / Special to The Chronicle Right or wrong? Its totally normal for a winery to let a group of six inebriated women wander through their wine caves unsupervised. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. Wrong. When the squad visits Quintessa, they tromp through the wine tunnels (their words), then retire to a secluded pavilion overlooking the vineyards, all with nary a staff member in sight. When you visit Quintessa, or any other winery for that matter, the chances that youll be left to wander the premises alone are pretty much zero. Letting guests roam free in a cold, dark, underground space where youre likely to stub your toe on a hose or trip on a drain kind of sounds like a lawsuit. These weird wine caves would be a good place to try molly, suggests Catherine, who has been trying (unsuccessfully) to convince her friends to take the drug all weekend, as they spelunk through Quintessa. I rest my case. Preston Gannaway / Special to The Chronicle Right or wrong? You can hire a guy to come to your vacation rental in Napa and make paella for you. Right. In Wine Country, the rental home comes with a chauffeur, private chef and makeshift therapist named Devon (Schwartzman), who has terrible taste in music (his picks for car songs are 311 and Bush), wants to join the groups photo-sharing channel and is supposed to make a big paella for dinner, which still isnt finished cooking the next morning. That really was based on my friend Gerard, of Gerards Paella, Dratch says. He actually does go to vineyards and make paella. The real Gerard, she assures us, is far less obnoxious than Devon. In addition to his catering business, he also has a paella restaurant in downtown Santa Rosa. Dratch recommends him for your next event. Right or wrong? No one bats an eye if you decide to gift personalized sex toys to your friends at the end of a big meal at a fancy Napa Valley restaurant. Wrong. Yes, this happens in the movie. Do we even have to address this one? Esther Mobley is The San Francisco Chronicles wine critic. Email: emobley@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Esther_mobley Instagram: @esthermob Firefighters rescued a tiny fawn in Pacifica on Wednesday morning, after it managed to get itself into a storm drain. A video posted on Twitter by the North County Fire Authority showed a firefighter reaching into a storm drain located on the corner of Crespi and Barcelona drives, as a fawn audibly whimpers from within. San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera is investigating a physician who may have unlawfully provided medical exemptions that allowed parents to avoid vaccinating their children, his office said in a press release Wednesday. The City Attorney issued a subpoena Wednesday for anonymized records from Dr. Kenneth Stoller, a physician who runs the Azzolino Concussion Clinic in Nob Hill. Stoller earned his degree from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine and received a license from the Medical Board of California in 1984, according to records. He is widely quoted on websites and in videos espousing anti-vaccination views. Between Jan. 1 and May 3, the Center for Disease Control reported 764 individual cases of measles in 23 states the highest number of measles cases recorded in the U.S. since 1994. Measles was declared eliminated in 2000. Stoller has 15 days to respond to the subpoena, which seeks medical records to investigate whether Stoller created a "nuisance" defined as anything injurious to health by providing medical exemptions to parents of children who did not have legitimate medical conditions that prevent them from getting vaccinated, the press release said. Rick Jaffe, who is representing Stoller, told SFGATE Wednesday that he doesn't "see how the city of San Francisco has the authority to seek the medical records of patients, whether they're de-identified or other." Jaffe said he is unaware of any precedent in which a medical decision between a physician and patient constitutes a public nuisance. "I think it's idiotic, and I think it's a political ploy," he said. Under SB 277, which took effect in California in 2016, students attending any public or private school in California must be vaccinated unless they are provided a medical exemption signed by a physician. Grounds for a medical exemption include undergoing chemotherapy or being allergic to vaccine components. Parents cannot cite religious or personal beliefs as a reason for not vaccinating their children, the law stipulates. The City Attorney's subpoena also directed Stoller to redact all personal identifying information from the documents that could be used to identify individual patients. "There are children who have serious medical conditions that prevent them from getting vaccinated," Herrera said in a statement. "The scary thing is those are the kids most at-risk when somebody engages in medical exemption deception. "If someone uses a medical exemption they don't qualify for and introduces unvaccinated children into that environment, the kids who legitimately can't get a vaccine and ultimately the general public are the ones in real danger." Stoller is an advocate of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, a treatment that delivers oxygen to the body in a pressurized chamber. Its proponents claim the therapy can treat a variety of ailments, including autism, diabetes and cancer, though these claims have not been clinically proven, the Food and Drug Administration warns. Stoller has also written a series of books, including a memoir chronicling communications with his deceased teenage son and "Incurable Me," which, per its Amazon description, argues that "the best evidence in medical research is not incorporated into clinical practice unless the medical cartel has the potential to make large amounts of money promoting the results of the research." San Francisco's Transamerica Pyramid once loomed ubiquitous in the city's skyline. As the economy soared, so did glass towers, rising to meet a booming housing demand. It can still be seen poking over landscapes from several parts of the city. In fact, it was long the tallest structure in the city, standing at 853 feet. It now gives way to the Salesforce Tower, located at First and Mission Street. While no longer the tallest, it still remains one of the city's most unique structures. You can see how the city skyline has transformed over the years in John King's ode to the building on the San Francisco Chronicle website. WASHINGTON President Trump taunted China on Wednesday morning, saying in a pair of tweets that Chinese negotiators were attempting to drag out trade negotiations until a very weak Democrat was back in the White House and insisting he would be happy to keep tariffs on Chinese exports rather than make a deal. Trumps tweets came as Chinese negotiators are headed to the United States to try to salvage a trade agreement that has fallen apart, suggesting a long road may be ahead. His comments are likely to further inflame tensions as Chinese officials, including Vice Premier Liu He, one of Chinas top economic officials and a close confidant of the countrys leader, Xi Jinping, join talks in Washington on Thursday. A quick resolution now seems unlikely. Significant gaps remain between the two sides, and Trump suggested he is ready to impose higher tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods Friday morning. The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come, Trump said on Twitter on Wednesday morning. Guess what, thats not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal. Well see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers...great for U.S., not good for China! the president added. On Wednesday morning, the U.S. Trade Representative filed a public notice saying that tariffs on roughly $200 billion of Chinese products would increase to 25% from 10% on May 10 in light of the lack of progress in the additional rounds of negotiations since March 2019. The Chinese Commerce Ministry suggested that it is ready to retaliate should the tariff rate increase. The escalation of trade friction is not in the interests of the people of the two countries and the people of the world. The Chinese side deeply regrets that if the U.S. tariff measures are implemented, China will have to take necessary countermeasures, the ministry said. Steady progress toward a trade deal blew up last weekend when China called for substantial changes to the negotiating text and Trump responded by threatening to raise existing tariffs and impose new ones on an additional $325 billion worth of products. Since the meeting on December 1, the United States and China have engaged in additional rounds of negotiation on these issues, including meetings in March, April, and May of 2019, the notice read. In the most recent negotiations, China has chosen to retreat from specific commitments agreed to in earlier rounds. The atmosphere surrounding the trade talks has shifted dramatically since a week ago, when observers in both countries thought a deal might be imminent. Instead, hard-liners within China recently pushed back on concessions that its negotiators had offered to the United States, a development that Trumps top advisers said moved the talks backwards. Trumps advisers were surprised by developments during talks last week in Beijing and in an exchange of documents over this past weekend, when Chinese negotiators called for changes in the language of all seven chapters of the 150-page draft agreement, people familiar with the negotiations said. The Chinese requests covered everything from agreements not to obtain American intellectual property to limiting Chinese subsidies and currency manipulation. In particular, the Chinese objected to how Trumps advisers wanted to codify the deal, the people said. The administration wanted the text of the agreement to specify that some of the changes that China had promised would be made in Chinese law. But Chinese negotiators insisted that the changes would be carried out through regulatory and administrative actions by the Chinese government, and not cemented in place through legislation in the National Peoples Congress. While Liu was given the authority to negotiate the terms of the agreement with the United States, much of what was agreed to was still in relatively abstract terms, according to another person familiar with the talks. When the draft agreement was brought back to a wider group of Chinese officials, it was met with concerns that certain provisions agreed to in principle were in conflict with Chinese laws and would require legal changes that would be complicated or unacceptable to enact, this person said. The retreat angered Trumps advisers, including Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. trade representative, prompting Trump to issue his tariff threat. There were communications over the weekend that made clear to us that it looked like we were going substantially backwards, and thats what led to us updating the president, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Monday. A spokesman for Chinas foreign ministry said in a briefing Wednesday that differences would naturally arise in the course of a negotiation and that Beijing was negotiating in good faith. It remains to be seen whether both sides can walk back the tensions and bridge the significant remaining differences. Trump administration officials including Lighthizer and Peter Navarro, a top trade adviser, remain deeply skeptical of Chinas record of upholding its past commitments. Senior Trump administration advisers have been circulating a five-page, single-spaced document detailing the economic promises that China has made to various U.S. presidents and then broken. Lighthizer is leading preparations before the next round of negotiations and, according to an administration official, the president is unfazed by the volatility in the stock market this week and wants to show China that he is serious about his threat to ratchet up tariffs. Longtime China critics in the United States have pushed the president to hold out against what they see as Chinas tough negotiating style. In my study of Chinese negotiating tactics, in almost every case, they believe the end game is where they can score the most points, Michael Pillsbury, a China scholar at the Hudson Institute and an adviser on China to the White House. Theyll be totally prepared for this final phase. Ana Swanson and Keith Bradsher are New York Times writers. Microsoft has announced an ambitious effort it says will make voting secure, verifiable and subject to reliable audits. Two of the three top U.S elections vendors have expressed interest in potentially incorporating the open-source software into their proprietary voting systems. The software kit is being developed with Galois, an Oregon company separately creating a secure voting system prototype under contract with the Pentagons advanced research agency, DARPA. Dubbed ElectionGuard, the Microsoft kit will be available this summer, the company says, with early prototypes ready to test in next years general election. CEO Satya Nadella announced the initiative this week at a developers conference in Seattle. Nadella said the projects software, provided free of charge as part of Microsofts Defending Democracy Program, would help modernize all of the election infrastructure everywhere in the world. Microsoft also announced cut-rate Office 365 software applications for political parties and campaigns for what it charges nonprofits. Both Microsoft and Google provide anti-phishing email support for campaigns. Three little-known U.S. companies control about 90% of the market for election equipment, but have long faced criticism for poor security, antiquated technology and insufficient transparency around their proprietary, black-box voting systems. Open-source software is inherently more secure because the underlying code is easily scrutinized by outside security experts. Two of the leading vendors, Election Systems & Software of Omaha, Neb., and Hart InterCivic of Austin, Texas, both expressed interest in working with Microsoft on ElectionGuard. A spokeswoman for a third vendor, Dominion Voting Systems of Denver, said the company looks forward to learning more about the project. Anyone with an existing voting system or developing a new one will be able to incorporate the ElectionGuard development kit at the state or local level in the U.S. or national level for jurisdictions abroad. It can be used with a ballot-marking device. It can be used with an optical scanner, on hand-marked paper ballots, said Josh Benaloh, a senior cryptographer at Microsoft Research and key contributor to the ElectionGuard project. Benaloh helped produce a National Academies of Science report last year that called for an urgent overhaul of the rickety U.S. election system, which faced serious threats from Russian hackers, who attempted to infiltrate voting administration systems in several states in 2016. That report called for all U.S. elections to be held on human-readable paper ballots by 2020. It also advocated a specific form of routine postelection audits intended to ensure that votes are accurately counted. While U.S. officials say there is no evidence of hackers tampering with election results, experts say systems used by millions of U.S. voters remain susceptible to tampering. Election integrity activist Susan Greenhalgh of the National Election Defense Coalition praised the project and said she hopes it will encourage innovative thinking at the level that elections are actually managed. We cant have faith-based voting anymore, she said. This is a great step forward in verifying election results. ElectionGuard will let voters confirm that their votes are accurately recorded. Beyond that, the unique coded tracker that it produces registers an encrypted version of the vote that keeps the ballot choice itself secret while ensuring votes are accurately counted. With such end-to-end verification, outsiders such as election watchdog groups, political parties, journalists and voters themselves can verify online that votes were properly counted without being altered. The system would also allow for reliable postelection audits and recounts. Microsoft executives say they also plan to build a prototype voting system for reference. One election official who has been in informal conversations with the ElectionGuard project leaders is Dean Logan, who runs elections for Los Angeles County, the nations most populous, and is building an open-source voting system for it. A spinoff of Galois called Free & Fair developed the sophisticated postelection audits, known as risk-limiting, for Colorado, which was the first U.S. state to require the audits recommended in the National Academies of Sciences report. ElectionGuard is not designed to work with internet voting schemes which experts consider too easily hackable and does not currently work with vote-by-mail systems. Election Systems & Software said in an email that it is excited to work with Microsoft on the tools, and that it is still exploring the potentials for incorporating the software kit into its voting systems. Hart InterCivic, the No. 3 vendor, said it plans a pilot project with Microsoft to incorporate ElectionGuard functionality as an additional feature layered over its core platform. A spokeswoman for Dominion, the No. 2 vendor, said, We are very interested in learning more about the initiative and being able to review the various prototypes that are being planned. Edgardo Cortes, a former Virginia elections commissioner now with New York Universitys Brennan Center, said he welcomes additional private sector support for election systems. I think itll take a while to catch on and see how beneficial (ElectionGuard) ends up being, he said. But I think it certainly does have a great deal of potential. Columbia University will team up with Microsoft to audit the pilot projects. Frank Bajak is an Associated Press writer. Austin, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Texas Senate passed the Preborn NonDiscrimination Act (PreNDA), Senate Bill 1033, by a bipartisan vote of 20-11 on Tuesday. SB 1033 by Senator Kelly Hancock (R-North Richland Hills) would: End the remaining late-term abortions in Texas; Prohibit abortions committed against preborn children for discriminatory reasons, like the childs sex, race, or suspected disability; and Provide information about life-affirming social and medical services to families whose preborn children are diagnosed with life-limiting disabilities. In April, dozens of citizens supported this legislation in the Senate Health & Human Services Committee hearing. Parents of children with disabilities described how valuable their children's lives are, and, even in cases where the child passed away, mothers and fathers recounted how abortion would have compounded their suffering, not ended their mourning. During the debate on the Senate floor, Senator Hancock highlighted the story of one such mother who stated she was glad she didnt abort her (now 4-year-old) daughter like doctors advised because if she had she wouldnt be able to hold her child. SB 1033 will protect children inside the womb from discrimination just as the law protects those who are already born. A coalition of over 25 national and statewide leaders penned a recent letter to the Texas Legislature supporting the policy. Texas Right to Life applauds Senator Hancock for carrying the top abortion-related priority bill for the 86th Legislative Session, and thanks Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick for bringing SB 1033 to the Senate floor for a vote. The bill will now head to the Texas House of Representatives, where Pro-Life activists will push for a quick vote so the bill may be sent to the governors desk before May 27 when the legislative session ends. Founded in 1973, Texas Right to Life is the oldest and largest Pro-Life organization in Texas. Recognized as the statewide leader of the Pro-Life movement in Texas, Texas Right to Life works through legislation and education to protect the rights of the preborn, persons with disabilities, the sick, the elderly, and the vulnerable through legal, peaceful and prayerful means. ### HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. Last month, as the 20th anniversary of the Columbine High School shooting approached, STEM School Highlands Ranch joined hundreds of schools near Denver in closing temporarily amid security concerns. The anniversary came and went, and schools returned to their routines. But Tuesday afternoon, the STEM schools worst fears were realized when eight of its students were shot, one fatally, and two fellow students were being held as suspects. We know two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school and engaged students in two separate locations, Sheriff Tony Spurlock of Douglas County said at a news conference. At 6:45 p.m., about five hours after the shooting, the Douglas County Sheriffs Office released a statement confirming one of the eight who had been shot, an 18-year-old man, had died. Spurlock said the suspects, who were armed with a handgun and other weapons, confronted law enforcement officers when they arrived. He said the suspects were not injured. Spurlock said neither suspect had been on law enforcements radar before the shooting and that the motive was unknown. Littleton Adventist Hospital in Colorado said five people were transported there after Tuesdays shooting. Two are in serious condition while three have been discharged, the hospital said. Sky Ridge Medical Center said two children were transported there and were in stable condition. Childrens Hospital Colorado said one victim had been treated at its south campus and then released. While details of how the shooting happened remained sparse, one parent said students had tried to stop the attack. Brad Bialy said his oldest son, Brendan, a senior, told him he was in class when gunfire erupted. Bialy said his son told him two students entered the classroom, and one pulled a gun out of a guitar case. He said his son and two friends tried to tackle the gunman, but one of the boys was shot in the chest. Fernando Montoya told a local television station that his 17-year-old son, a junior, was shot three times. He was taken to a hospital but was going to be released. Spurlock said the school, which has about 1,800 students in kindergarten through 12th grade, had no police officer assigned to it and used private security instead, but he did not say what actions that security service may have taken during the shooting. The sheriff said the school alerted law enforcement almost immediately after the first gunshots were fired and that deputies arrived roughly two minutes later. I have to believe that the quick response of officers that got inside that school helped save lives, the sheriff said. Students were taken to Northridge Recreation Center in Highlands Ranch, where hundreds of anxious parents gathered to look for their children Tuesday afternoon. Douglas County is an affluent area south of Denver with about 350,000 people. It sits next to Jefferson County, home to Columbine High School, and students there are already primed to watch for gunmen. Jack Healy and Liam Stack are New York Times writers. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. The lone fatality in the Colorado high school shooting was Kendrick Castillo, a friendly 18-year-old who, witnesses said, leaped from his desk in a literature class and charged the two attackers, sacrificing his life to buy classmates time to escape. Another 18-year-old who was preparing to enter the Marines also tackled at least one of the shooters. And an armed security guard then confronted and detained one of the gunmen, officials said. Authorities said these acts of bravery helped minimize the bloodshed from the attack, which also wounded eight people. Were going to hear about very heroic things that have taken place at the school, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said Wednesday. The attackers were identified by law enforcement officials as 18-year-old Devon Erickson and a younger student who is a juvenile and was not named. They allegedly walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch through an entrance without metal detectors and opened fire in two classrooms. Because the attack happened only miles from Columbine and just weeks after that shootings 20th anniversary, questions quickly arose about whether it was inspired by the 1999 massacre. But investigators offered no immediate motive. Both suspects were students at the school, and they were not previously known to authorities, Spurlock said. Erickson made his first court appearance Wednesday and kept his head down. His black hair, streaked with purple dye, covered his face. The juvenile second attacker was due to appear before the judge immediately afterward. Formal charges were expected to be filed by Friday. A message left at a phone number listed for Ericksons home was not immediately returned. Kathleen Foody, P. Solomon Banda and Nicholas Riccardi are Associated Press writers. There's not much I admittedly understand about John McAfee and his ways of the world, from admitting to his Twitter followers that he's armed at all times from the shower to the bed to his, ahem, signature 2020 cocktail of mezcal, vodka, Scotch, Kahlua and blue curacao. But you can't argue that he's boring. McAfee has long been a Bitcoin enthusiast and champions most things cryptocurrency, and has been more recently hyping a debit card-like Visa that one can load with Bitcoin, is apparently usable anywhere and converts to local currencies. (The first 12,000 "debit cards" apparently will bear his image on the front, for those that want it, apparently.) McAfee took out his development team for drinks Monday, according to his Twitter account, and used the new Bitcoin debit card for its first outing. In the process of showing off the card, he also offered up an interesting proposition to his followers: Why not send me some Bitcoins to test it? "People asked to see the back of the card," McAfee wrote in a tweet. "Here's front and back on the counter at the first bar ever to accept a Bitcoin credit card. The code on the back is for one of my test wallets. If you want to send me Bitcoins as a test please do so :)" It seems a number of people took McAfee up on his offer, and within three hours, he was begging people to stop. "When I suggested in my last tweet that naysayers saying the scan code on the back of my Bitcoin Visa card was not even real, should just try sending Bitcoins and see -- sure as heck, the BTC started arriving," McAfee wrote. "I insist this stop. Already the IRS hates me," he added. It's true, the IRS is no fan of McAfee; the former antivirus magnate was indicted by the IRS for not paying taxes and he is currently living in international waters, while also running for president in 2020. The controversial McAfee is also a "person of interest" for the 2012 murder of his neighbor in Belize. The Securities and Exchange Commission is also not a fan of McAfee: He's claimed he's been forced into hiding due to his involvement with cryptocurrency and problems with the SEC, and apparently encouraged his Twitter followers to harass SEC Chair Jay Clayton last year, and demand a debate between McAfee and Clayton. Some people source friends' recommendations ahead of a tour through wine country. Others might explore the Press, or scroll through Yelp or TripAdvisor. But with a new Netflix film about the Napa Valley wine country releasing Friday, you can now also look to the itinerary of some of your favorite comedic actors. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) Ride-hailing app Grab said it would not implement a 50 cancellation fee pending guidelines from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board. (LTFRB). Grab said in a statement on Wednesday that it agreed, together with other transport network companies (TNCs), to maintain the status quo until the government regulator issues guidelines with the assistance of a technical working group composed of TNC representatives. The technical working group was created to discuss passenger and driver cancellation policies. Grab, which now dominates the TNC market following its merger with United States-based Uber last year, also clarified that no cancellation fees have been charged or collected. It said it was set to implement the policy next week. The company announced last week that it will update policies to address unreasonable cancellations by its drivers. It sought to impose a cancellation fee on passengers who make excessive cancellations, who cancel five minutes after getting a ride, or if they fail to show up at the pick-up point within the allotted time. It also said that drivers will receive appropriate sanctions if they go below the required completion rate, if they excessively ignore or cancel booking requests, and if they receive passenger complaints and low ratings. Penalties include being locked out of the platform, suspension and banning. Drivers who go above and beyond, meanwhile, will be able to use a tipping feature on the app for passengers to reward them. Large area (4.0km x 2.4km) Induced Polarisation (IP) survey recently completed north of the Woodlawn Mine has delineated a number of significant IP anomalies, with two key targets: Coincident chargeability and conductivity anomaly at Murphys prospect Large chargeability anomaly at Bucklands North prospect Anomalies lie on Herons granted mining lease and within 2.5km of the Woodlawn plant site, currently being commissioned Targets will be drill tested in the coming weeks SYDNEY, Australia, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heron Resources Limited (ASX:HRR Heron or the Company) is pleased to report on the results of an IP geophysical survey at its wholly-owned Woodlawn Zinc-Copper Project, located 250km south-west of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The program consisted of a modern IP survey within Herons granted mining lease and covers an area of 4.0km x 2.4km directly north of the Woodlawn Mine. Commenting on the new program, Heron Resources Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Wayne Taylor said: Our exploration team is focusing on the area around the Woodlawn Mine with the specific aim of discovering a new Woodlawn-style deposit. Modern geophysical techniques are ideally suited for this style of mineralisation and this IP survey has generated some of the most exciting responses since the discovery of the Kate Lens electro-magnetic anomaly. We look forward to mobilising a drilling rig in the coming weeks to drill test these anomalies. IP geophysical surveys were successful in identifying the original Woodlawn deposit in the early 1970s; however, the early surveys could penetrate only to depths of approximately 150m whereas the modern high powered surveys can penetrate considerably deeper to approximately 700m. An IP survey was recently completed directly north of Woodlawn (Figure 1) in an area which contains the Woodlawn volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) host rocks, in an effort to identify anomalies at-depth that could be related to potential new Woodlawn style deposits. Survey lines were spaced at 400m with some infill in the south to 200m. Figure 1: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8120f9e5-c4ab-4a4f-9717-5220a88b092a The data was collected on 2D lines and then modelled in 3D to provide the slices shown in Figure 1. The survey recorded chargeability, conductivity and magneto telluric data. Electrical noise (interference) levels were low, providing the survey with good depth of penetration and signal resolution. The northern-most line covered the Cowley Hills VMS deposit (35kt of massive sulphides mined in the 1990s) and showed a relatively weak response, which provides a guide for the other responses detected in the current survey. The two main IP anomalies at the Murphys and Bucklands North prospects have been selected for immediate drill follow-up. The anomalies at Bucklands (directly north-west of the Woodlawn pit) and the Western prospect also warrant follow-up drilling but have been prioritised below the two initial anomalies. The anomaly at the Murphys prospect is a strong coincident chargeability and conductivity anomaly extending down 600-800 m below the surface (Figures 2 and 3) and covering a strike extent of some 600 m. Murphys has a strong surface geochemical anomaly and shallow drilling here in the 1980s and 1990s intersected broad zones of relatively weak zinc, lead and copper mineralisation within a mixed sequence of hydrothermally altered Woodlawn Volcanics and De Drack Formation volcaniclastic and sedimentary package. The IP results indicate the mineralisation may continue and potentially get stronger at depth. A proposed 780 m deep drill hole is being planned to provide an initial test of this anomaly (Figures 2 & 3). Figure 2: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c8e0c0d0-0f97-42ca-97b5-9c67424d5abd Figure 3: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a321d557-68d2-4e36-8b24-2b31fca33711 At the Bucklands North prospect a large, strong chargeability anomaly has been identified over some 600 m of strike (Figure 4). This chargeability anomaly is deeper and larger than the Murphys target and may reflect a broad zone of disseminated sulphides surrounding a sulphide lens at depth. Weak base-metal sulphide mineralisation was returned from shallow drilling undertaken in the 1990s and indicates the possibility of a distal alteration halo surrounding a VMS system. The absence of a coincident conductivity anomaly in this area does not diminish the targets prospectivity: Woodlawn-style ore bodies produce relatively narrow conductivity anomalies compared to chargeability because the conductivity responds to small, narrow massive sulphide core only, while the chargeability maps the volumetrically much larger disseminated sulphide halo. Therefore, it can be expected that a deep orebody may only be visible in the chargeability data and not in the conductivity data. A proposed 750 m deep drill hole has been planned to provide an initial test of this anomaly (Figure 4). Figure 4: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3218c351-5c4e-428f-8663-2e5d1be4eb86 The drill program is in the final stages of planning with drilling expected to commence in the next few weeks. About Heron Resources Limited (ASX:HRR) Heron Resources Limited is engaged in the exploration and development of base and precious metal deposits in Australia. Herons primary focus is on its 100% owned, high grade Woodlawn Zinc-Copper Project located 250km southwest of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia one of the few new zinc projects that is fully-funded to production. Production of base metal concentrates is due to commence imminently and this places the Company on track to participate in the pricing environment supported by a strong zinc physical market. In addition, the Company holds a number of significant high quality, base and precious metal tenements regional to the Woodlawn Project. To learn more, please visit: www.heronresources.com.au or contact Mr. Wayne Taylor Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Tel: +61 2 9119 8111 or +61 8 6500 9200 Email: heron@heronresources.com.au Or follow us on Twitter @Heron_Resources Compliance Statement (JORC 2012) The technical information in this report relating to the exploration results is based on information compiled by Mr. David von Perger, who is a Member of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (Chartered Professional Geology). Mr. von Perger is a full time employee of Heron Resources Limited and has sufficient experience, which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results. Mr. von Perger has approved the technical disclosure in the news release. JORC 2012 Table 1 Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data (Criteria in this section applies to all succeeding sections) Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Sampling techniques Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling. Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used. Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report. The Exploration Results relate to an Induced Polarisation (IP) geophysical program. Resistivity, chargeability and magneto-telluric data was collected at each point along the line. A 65 channel MIMDAS system was used for the resistivity and chargeability acquisition. Magneto-tellurics were collected using EMI BF-4 Magnetometers. The IP survey was undertaken a geophysical contractor: Geophysical Resources and Services Pty Ltd (GRS), a reputable geophysical contractor specialising in IP surveys in Australia. The IP program, was conducted over an area of 2.4km x 4.0km (refer Figure 1 in body of report). East-west (approximate orientation) lines were spaced at a nominal 400m, with some infill lines to 200m in the south of the survey area. Data along the lines was collected every 100m. Drilling techniques Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details. The Exploration Results relate to an IP geophysical program and no drilling was undertaken. Drill sample recovery Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed. The Exploration Results relate to an IP geophysical program and no drill sampling was undertaken. Logging Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies. The Exploration Results relate to an IP geophysical program and no drilling or logging was undertaken. Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique. The Exploration Results relate to an IP geophysical program and no sub-sampling was undertaken. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total. Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. The Exploration Results relate to an IP geophysical program and no sampling for assaying was undertaken. Verification of sampling and assaying The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel. Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols. Discuss any adjustment to assay data. The Exploration Results relate to an IP geophysical program and no sampling for assaying was undertaken. Location of data points Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation. Survey control for the program consisted of hand-help GPS receiver that have an accuracy of approximately 5m. Given the survey spacings (nominal 400m x 100m) this accuracy is considered sufficient. Data spacing and distribution Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results. Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied. Whether sample compositing has been applied. This IP program, was conducted over an area of 2.4km x 4.0km (refer Figure 1 in body of report). East-west (approximate orientation) lines were spaced at a nominal 400m, with some infill lines to 200m in the south of the survey area. Data along the lines was collected every 100m. The survey line in the far south of the area was non-linear to traverse around mine infrastructure such as evaporation dams. The survey spacing was considered sufficient to provide the IP data coverage required to generate drill target anomalies during this early stage of exploration. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type. The IP survey lines were orientated roughly perpendicular to the strike of the geology units so as to provide optimum geophysical responses. Sample security The measures taken to ensure sample security. No specific measures for data security were undertaken due to the nature of the geophysical survey that was being undertaken. The data was downloaded and provided to the Company from GRS on a semi-daily basis. Audits or reviews The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. The IP survey results were reviewed by the Companys independent senior geophysicist employed through Mitre Geophysics Pty Ltd. Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results (Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.) More than 40 years after the Punch Line Comedy Club opened on Battery Street in downtown San Francisco, the venue will shutter at that location at the end of the summer, Live Nation confirms. Live Nation told SFGate that the company is seeking a new home for the club after the business was unable to come to an agreement on its lease with the property owners. Staffers at the club were informed of the August closure this week. In the meantime, Live Nation is searching for a new club space to open "ASAP," a venue spokesperson told SFGate. (Live Nation also operates Cobb's Comedy Club in San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood.) RELATED: Punch Line celebrates 25 years of ground-breaking comedy, big-name stars and really bad bathrooms "We're currently in search of a new home to preserve our decades-long tradition of entertaining comedy fans in San Francisco and the Bay Area," said Punch Line talent buyer Molly Schminke in a statement. "It's a sad moment for us, but we're excited at the future's potential. ... Our best days are yet to come." Joey Avery, a comic who performed at the Punch Line just last Sunday and considers the venue his home club, was "shocked" to hear about its imminent closure. Most working comics in and around San Francisco make a point to gather on Sundays at the Punch Line, which he calls the "heart of the local comedy scene." It takes a lot of effort and face time for newer comics to score a set there, but those who do can find consistent work. Losing the Punch Line, Avery said, is "the worst-case scenario." "In some ways, it's knowing the direction this city is going and knowing how money is eating up the things many people hold dear," he continued. "To some degree, it feels like it's only a matter of time before it comes to your place." RELATED: Dave Chappelle to receive the 2019 Mark Twain Prize for American Humor The Punch Line was founded in 1978 by Jeffrey Pollack and Jonathan and Anne Fox, initially as a dressing room for the Old Waldorf, a rock club next door. Bill Graham purchased both spaces several years later. The intimate room grew to make a name for itself in subsequent years, hosting iconic comedians including Robin Williams, Ellen DeGeneres, Chris Rock, Drew Carey, Chelsea Handler and Dana Carvey. The club is also a known favorite of Dave Chappelle, who often appears onstage for long, impromptu sets while he works through new material. Avery, who has been lucky enough to catch some of Chappelle's sets from backstage, said the star comic's frequent presence at the club confirms its "prestige status" for established acts across the world. For newer comedians, the venue has become an aspirational lodestar a career marker of a certain level of success. Avery is glad the venue is intent on returning in some form soon, but said he's sorry to see the loss of the club's decades-long legacy. "When you have an art venue that's been around for so long that has a lot of history (and you move it), you're going to lose some of the magic," he said. "I have great respect for the people who run the venue. Losing a space that has so much history is still a blow to SF." Plus, Avery is really going to miss his weekly ritual. "Hopefully they can get something going again," he said, "so we can have those Sundays back." Edit: This article originally stated that Bill Graham founded the Punch Line. It has been corrected. Alyssa Pereira is an SFGATE staff writer. Email her at apereira@sfchronicle.com or find her on Twitter at @alyspereira. Gov. Brian Kemp of Georgia signed one of the most restrictive abortion laws in the nation Tuesday, effectively banning abortion after six weeks of pregnancy, when doctors can usually start detecting a fetal heartbeat. Georgia is the fourth state to enact a so-called fetal heartbeat law this year. Like in other states, it is expected to face a swift legal challenge, which supporters hope will lead to a re-evaluation by the U.S. Supreme Court of the landmark 1973 ruling that made abortion legal nationwide. Kemp, a Republican, said in a signing ceremony at the state Capitol that his administration is prepared for a court fight. Our job is to do what is right, not what is easy, he said. We are called to be strong and courageous, and we will not back down. The Georgia legislation is but the latest front in a wide-ranging battle over abortion rights being waged this year across Republican-controlled state legislatures in the Midwest and South. Conservative lawmakers see the realignment of the Supreme Court as presenting their best opportunity to overturn Roe vs. Wade, the case that recognized a womans constitutional right to an abortion. The Georgia law, which would take effect in 2020, prohibits most abortions once doctors can discern a fetal heartbeat, a milestone that occurs before some women know they are pregnant. In practice, the limit on abortion in Georgia will now be six weeks of pregnancy, instead of 20 weeks. Exceptions are allowed to prevent death or serious harm to the woman, and in cases of rape or incest in which a police report has been filed. Kemp was narrowly elected in November, and the bill he signed Tuesday was seen as crucial in maintaining the conservative support that led him into the governors office. Kemp and the laws other supporters have brushed aside the risks of any political backlash. The laws critics said that they intend to target Republicans for defeat, especially those from the demographically shifting northern suburbs of Atlanta who supported the bill in the General Assembly. Georgians will fight back in the courtroom and at the ballot box & win, Stacey Abrams, the Democratic nominee for governor in 2018, said in a tweet Monday. Governors in Kentucky, Mississippi and Ohio signed bills similar to Georgias this year. They have not gone unchallenged: A federal judge is expected to hear a challenge to the Mississippi law this month, and a judge in Kentucky blocked the law there. Similar measures in Iowa and North Dakota have been found unconstitutional. Lawmakers in South Carolina and Tennessee have pressed for fetal heartbeat bills of their own, and in Arkansas, the state government narrowed the time frame in which women can have abortions. Patricia Mazzei and Alan Blinder are New York Times writers. WASHINGTON Hastily written executive orders. Declarations by tweet. President Trumps White House hasnt been known for its careful crafting of policy. But Jared Kushner, the presidents son-in-law and senior adviser, has spent months drawing up a long-awaited immigration overhaul plan that the White House began to roll out Tuesday. Frustrated by congressional inaction and stinging Republican defeats, Kushner has been meeting with GOP groups and speaking with lawmakers to try to fashion a plan that the president and his party might be able to unite behind. Hes been assisted by a team that includes experts in drafting legislation so that he can be less reliant on Capitol Hill, according to people familiar with the efforts. Its a new approach for an administration with few legislative achievements and facing the challenges of navigating a hostile Democratic House, where many legislators are more intent on investigating the president than working with him, especially in an area as contentious as immigration. The fact is this president is taking the lead. Hes not waiting on Congress, White House spokesman Hogan Gidley told Fox News on Tuesday. Officials stressed that the plan could evolve in response to feedback. But so far it includes two prongs: A border security bill that would focus, in part, on modernizing ports of entry, and a package of revisions to legal immigration that aims to create a more merit-based system giving preference to those with job skills rather than relatives of immigrants already in the country. A senior administration official told reporters that the total number of immigrants allowed into the country would not change under the plan only the types of immigrants admitted. The White House is also working with Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., on additional legislation that would address the nations asylum system, in an effort to stem the flow of migrants across the border, according to the official, who outlined the plan on condition of anonymity because public discussion was not authorized. Its not the first time the White House has tried to sell Congress on Trumps immigration priorities and its unclear whether Republicans let alone Democrats will be on board. There is deep doubt in Washington that there is any appetite on Capitol Hill for a wide-ranging agreement. Trump and Kushner met Tuesday afternoon with a dozen Republican senators who seemed largely receptive to the effort. But several said they were awaiting more details. Jill Colvin is an Associated Press writer. WASHINGTON The White House stepped in Tuesday to stop Don McGahn, the former White House counsel, from handing over documents subpoenaed by House investigators because President Trump may want to assert executive privilege over them. The current White House counsel, Pat Cipollone, instructed the House Judiciary Committee to redirect to the White House its requests for the records, which relate to key episodes of possible obstruction of justice identified by Robert Mueller, the special counsel. His move was certain to enrage Democrats who are increasingly at odds with the Trump administration over access to witnesses and records that they say they need to conduct legitimate investigations. Irvine, California, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Americans owe over $1.5 trillion in student loans. It is the second largest debt in America after mortgages. This debt has placed many dreams on hold. Millions of Americans find it impossible to save because of student loan debt. It is making many people to live paycheck to paycheck. Financial Preparation Services makes it easy to manage student loan debt. Thousands of Americans have already benefited from this service. The agents of Financial Preparation Services will perform a through loan evaluation and provide one-one-one budgetary consultation. A loan borrower will obtain a custom-made repayment schedule that will make it possible to repay debt progressively while still being able to meet personal needs. For most loan borrowers, a majority of their disposable incomes goes towards student loan repayments. That makes life difficult. Most people often have to resort to taking personal loans to make ends meet. The goal of Financial Preparation Services is to create a repayment schedule that makes it possible to enjoy life while still repaying debt. Financial Preparation Services understands that every debt situation is different. There is no cookie-cutter solution. That is why they have a personalized approach. The service offered is not a one-off service. Financial Preparation Services will also carry out yearly recertification. This will keep a borrower on track for loan forgiveness and will ensure that a plan is current with the prevailing circumstances. Financial Preparation Services provides all the tools and resources required for debt management. This company offers important student loan industry information that will empower borrowers. The company also offers information on program modifications and foreseeable government action. Document preparation is an important part of debt management. This involves a lot of time and effort. A borrower will need to deal with plenty of paperwork. Financial Preparation Services will handle document preparation. The company will prepare student loan consolidation documents. Company agents will also apply for relevant repayment plans on behalf of a borrower. Once a borrower is approved for a repayment plan, there will be the need to start making repayments. Financial Preparation Services does not make repayments on behalf of borrowers. There is no guarantee that a borrower will be approved for loan consolidation. However, if there is no approval, Financial Preparation Services offers a 100% money back guarantee. Financial Preparation Services has partnered with a dedicated account provider to facilitate the safety of your money. The account provider serves as an escrow and banking provider. This means the account provider will only release the funds to Financial Preparation Services after the services have been fully rendered and there is proof. You need to get results for the company to be paid. Most people do not prepare their tax returns. They seek professional assistance for that although it is something that they can do. That is because they want to benefit from professional feedback. That should also be the case when it comes to debt management. Having a professional from Financial Preparation Services managing your student debt will prove beneficial. You will benefit from professional advice and guidance that will help you attain financial freedom in a short time. You do not have to manage your debt yourself. That is a cumbersome affair. Let the professionals at Financial Preparation Services do the hard work for you as you focus on the things that matter most in your life. The path to financial freedom starts at Financial Preparation Services. You can find a way out of debt with the right professional assistance. French English Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium, 8 May 2019 - IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A., EURONEXT), the worlds leading provider of proton therapy solutions for the treatment of cancer, today announces its business update for the first quarter ending 31 March 2019. Olivier Legrain, Chief Executive Officer of IBA SA commented: The start of 2019 has seen an active proton therapy market and strong performance in our Other Accelerators division. We were also pleased to be selected to install a ProteusPlus system in the important market of China. With an increasing number of proton therapy projects becoming operational in the coming years, IBAs recurring revenues will continue to grow and will become more predictable. We continue to maintain tight cost controls whilst maintaining our unique competitive strengths allowing us to deliver a cutting edge, flexible product offering with the fastest market installation times. Business highlights (including post-period end) Proton Therapy Markets & Technology IBA was selected in March by Shenzhen Municipal People's Government as its preferred vendor to install a Proteus PLUS five-room proton therapy solution in Shenzhen, China. This followed a comprehensive Government public tender conducted by Shenzhen Municipal Health Commission. IBA is in contract negotiations and revenue recognition will start when a down payment has been received. PLUS five-room proton therapy solution in Shenzhen, China. This followed a comprehensive Government public tender conducted by Shenzhen Municipal Health Commission. IBA is in contract negotiations and revenue recognition will start when a down payment has been received. In January 2019, following the approval of Public Health Authorities, the utilization of the model-based approach was extended to breast cancer treatment in The Netherlands and the first breast cancer patient was treated with proton therapy at University Medical Centre Groningen (UMCG). IBA hosted its 8th Annual IBA Proton Therapy Users Meeting in Miami, USA, in February. This year IBA welcomed more than 165 participants, representing 40 sites from 17 countries, making IBAs proton therapy community the largest and most experienced in the industry. In a step forward for future proton therapy technology, IBA succeeded in performing the first Flash irradiation in a treatment room at UMCG in The Netherlands. Flash radiotherapy is a novel external non-invasive radiotherapy technique that consists of delivering a high dose of radiation at an ultra-high dose rate and has the potential to dramatically change patient cancer care. The second meeting of the Victoria Advisory Committee took place in April. Clinical experts from the worlds leading cancer centers specializing in radiation and proton therapy defined, together with IBA, the future of proton therapy care. At the 38th Annual meeting of the European Society for Radiotherapy & Oncology (ESTRO) in Milan, Italy, in April, IBA presented the future of proton therapy technology with a focus on motion management, Proton Arc Therapy, and Proton Flash Therapy. During the meeting, IBA also hosted a symposium attended by more than 200 radiotherapy professionals, showcasing presentations from clinical experts in proton therapy including the first-year experience with the model-based approach for patient selection. Proton Therapy Operations At the end of Q1 2019, 21 projects (37 rooms) are now in development, comprising 14 Proteus ONE and seven Proteus PLUS*. ONE and seven Proteus PLUS*. 29 IBA PT centers are currently in operation. With an increase in our PT installed base to 50 centers, revenues from services are set to increase strongly in absolute value. IBA continues to develop its service offering to benefit a growing number of patients and further differentiate the Group from other PT providers. In January, the Apollo Proton Cancer Centre in Chennai, India, opened with the first treatment of a patient with proton therapy in South Asia. Other Accelerators Five Other Accelerators systems were sold over the first quarter, in Asia, Europe and North America, with four additional systems sold post-period end. IBA Industrial, a division of the Other Accelerators business unit, sold two Rhodotron TT300 HE electron beam accelerators to NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes in March. Importantly, these sales open a new opportunity for IBA systems to be used to create new radiopharmaceuticals for diagnosis and/or treatment. TT300 HE electron beam accelerators to NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes in March. Importantly, these sales open a new opportunity for IBA systems to be used to create new radiopharmaceuticals for diagnosis and/or treatment. In April, at the International Meeting on Radiation Processing (IMRP), IBA Industrial also saw strong interest for its new generation of Rhodotron for sterilization applications. Dosimetry As stated in the FY18 results statement, the Company will update the market on the strategic review of IBA Dosimetry when a significant milestone is reached. Outlook IBA reiterates its outlook given at the time of its financial year 2018 results: Based on the current prudent outlook on the Proton Therapy market, IBA maintains guidance of positive REBIT for 2019. Shareholder's Agenda First Half 2019 Results Thursday, August 22, 2019 Third Quarter 2019 Business Update Thursday, November 14, 2019 Directors' Declarations In accordance with the Royal Decree of 14 November 2007, IBA indicates that this Trading Update has been prepared by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). About IBA IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A.) is a global medical technology company focused on bringing integrated and innovative solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The company is the worldwide technology leader in the field of proton therapy, considered to be the most advanced form of radiation therapy available today. IBAs proton therapy solutions are flexible and adaptable, allowing customers to choose from universal full-scale proton therapy centers as well as compact, single room solutions. In addition, IBA also has a radiation dosimetry business and develops particle accelerators for the medical world and industry. Headquartered in Belgium and employing about 1,500 people worldwide, IBA has installed systems across the world. IBA is listed on the pan-European stock exchange NYSE EURONEXT (IBA: Reuters IBAB.BR and Bloomberg IBAB.BB). More information can be found at: www.iba-worldwide.com *ProteusONE and ProteusPLUS are brand names of Proteus 235 For further information, please contact: IBA Soumya Chandramouli Chief Financial Officer +32 10 475 890 Investorrelations@iba-group.com Thomas Ralet Vice-President Corporate Communication +32 10 475 890 communication@iba-group.com For media and investor enquiries: Consilium Strategic Communications Amber Fennell, Matthew Neal, Angela Gray +44 (0) 20 3709 5700 IBA@consilium-comms.com Attachment CALGARY, Alberta, May 07, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (TSX - NVA) NuVista Energy Ltd. ("NuVista") announces that the following matters were approved at the annual meeting of the shareholders of NuVista held on May 7, 2019 in Calgary, Alberta. Each of the matters is described in greater detail in the Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Information Circular dated March 22, 2019 (the "Circular"). 1. Fixing the Number of Directors By resolution passed via ballot, the number of directors to be elected at the meeting was fixed at nine members. The results of the ballot were as follows: Votes For Percent Votes Against Percent 181,874,562 98.59% 2,597,717 1.41% 2. Election of Directors By resolution passed via ballot, the following nine nominees were appointed as directors of NuVista to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders of NuVista, or until their successors are elected or appointed. The results of the ballot were as follows: Name of Nominee Votes For Percent Votes Withheld Percent Keith A. MacPhail 174,493,295 94.59% 9,978,984 5.41% Ronald J. Eckhardt 183,328,006 99.38% 1,144,273 0.62% Pentti O. Karkkainen 177,999,020 96.49% 6,473,259 3.51% Ronald J. Poelzer 171,904,196 93.19% 12,568,083 6.81% Brian G. Shaw 183,316,399 99.37% 1,155,880 0.63% Sheldon B. Steeves 179,554,177 97.33% 4,918,102 2.67% Deborah S. Stein 182,183,364 98.76% 2,288,915 1.24% Jonathan A. Wright 181,397,655 98.33% 3,074,624 1.67% Grant A. Zawalsky 139,515,041 75.63% 44,957,238 24.37% 3. Appointment of Auditors By resolution passed via ballot, KPMG LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, were appointed as auditors of NuVista to hold office until close of the next annual meeting or until their successors are duly appointed, and the directors were authorized to fix their remuneration. The results of the ballot were as follows: Votes For Percent Votes Withheld Percent 184,891,642 99.65% 649,742 0.35% 4. Non-Binding Advisory Resolution on Executive Compensation By advisory resolution passed via ballot, NuVista's approach to executive compensation was approved. The results of the ballot were as follows: Votes For Percent Votes Against Percent 181,581,530 98.43% 2,890,749 1.57% INVESTOR INFORMATION NuVista is an independent Canadian oil and natural gas exploration, development and production corporation with its Common Shares trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol NVA. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Company Announcement Copenhagen, 8 May 2019 No. 08/2019 TRADING UPDATE FOR THE PERIOD 1 JANUARY 31 MARCH 2019 ISS (ISS.CO, ISS DC, ISSDY), a leading global provider of facility services, announces its trading update for the first three months of 2019. Highlights Revenue increased by 4.9% in Q1 (Q4 2018: 0.5%), mainly driven by organic growth, and a marginally positive currency effect, partly offset by negative net impact from acquisitions and divestments of 1.8%. Organic revenue growth of 6.1% in Q1 2019 (Q4 2018: 4.1%) driven by continued strong commercial momentum with key account contract wins and expansions as well as continued solid non-portfolio demand. Revenue from key accounts increased organically by 8.7% in Q1 2019 and represents 60% of Group revenue (2018: 59%). The 2019 outlook for organic revenue growth, operating margin and free cash flow remains unchanged. Jeff Gravenhorst, Group CEO, ISS A/S, said: We had a strong commercial start to the year. Our focus on key accounts continues to bear fruit. We signed a significant new contract with the Danish Building and Property Agency in Denmark. In addition, we successfully extended and expanded large key account contracts such as Santander in the UK, Singapore General Hospital and an international Food and Beverage customer. The divestments of our remaining non-core assets are progressing well. We will gradually reinvest divestment proceeds in strengthening our delivery capabilities and platform. With this, ISS will continue to grow stronger". Lord Allen of Kensington Kt CBE Jeff Gravenhorst Chairman Group CEO Conference call details A conference call will be held on 8 May 2019 at 9:00 CEST. Presentation material will be available online prior to the conference call. Dial-in details: Denmark: +45 35445583 UK: +44 2031940544 USA: +1 8552692604 Link: https://iss.eventcdn.net/201905q1 For investor enquiries Martin Kjr Hansen, Head of Group Investor Relations, +45 3817 6431 Louisa Baruch Larsson, Senior Investor Relations Manager, +45 3817 6338 For media enquiries Rajiv Arvind, Senior Communications Manager, +45 38 17 62 11 About ISS ISS helps the world work better. In partnership with customers, ISS drives the engagement and well-being of people, minimises the impact on the environment, and protects and maintains property. ISS brings all of this to life through a unique combination of data, insight and service excellence at offices, factories, airports, hospitals and other locations across the globe. In 2018, ISS Groups global revenue amounted to DKK 73.6 billion. ISS has operations in more than 70 countries with 485,908 employees spread across Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Americas. For more information on the ISS Group, visit www.issworld.com ISS A/S, ISIN DK0060542181, ISIN US4651472056 ISS Global A/S, ISIN XS1145526585, ISIN XS1330300341, ISIN XS1145526825, ISIN XS1673102734 Attachments English Finnish F-Secure Corporation, Interim Report, 8 May 2019 at 09.00 EEST F-Secure Interim Report 1 January - 31 March 2019 Strong growth in corporate security This is a summary of F-Secures Interim Report. The full report is attached to this stock exchange release and it is also available on the company's website at the address: www.f-secure.com/ir. Highlights of January-March (Q1) Revenue increased by 24% to EUR 53.4 million (43.1m) Revenue from corporate security increased by 52% to EUR 29.4 million (19.4m) Revenue from consumer security increased by 1% to EUR 24.0 million (23.8m) Deferred revenue increased by 6% to EUR 71.4 million (67.2m) Adjusted EBITDA was EUR 5.0 million (3.8m), 9.4% of revenue (8.9%) 1) Earnings per share (EPS) was EUR -0.01 (EUR 0.00) Cash flow from operating activities before financials items and taxes was EUR -0.3 million (1.2m)1) 1) F-Secure has adopted the new Leases standard (IFRS 16) on 1 January 2019 using the modified approach. Comparative information has not been restated. For the first quarter, the impact of IFRS 16 on adjusted EBITDA is EUR +1.6 million and on operative cash flow EUR +1.5 million. For the full year 2019, the impact on adjusted EBITDA is estimated to be around EUR +6.0 million. Figures in this report are unaudited. Figures in brackets refer to the corresponding period in the previous year, unless otherwise stated. Outlook Outlook for 2019 unchanged The company's outlook for 2019 is unchanged: Revenue from corporate security is expected to grow by over 30% compared to 2018 Revenue from consumer security is expected to stay approximately at the same level as in 2018 Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be above EUR 15 million excluding the impact of IFRS 16 Outlook for the strategy period 2018-2021 is unchanged The demand for cyber security products and services is expected to continue in strong growth and F-Secure aims to grow faster than the market. Revenue from corporate security is expected to grow above 15% annually during our strategy period 2018-2021. Driven by the anticipated revenue growth and scalable business model, profitability is expected to improve significantly in the long-term. The management continuously seeks to balance the growth investments and profitability to optimize long-term growth and value creation for the shareholders. CEO SAMU KONTTINEN F-Secures revenue growth improved in both of our businesses during the first quarter. Our total revenue increased by 24% to EUR 53.4 million, with revenue from corporate security increasing by 52%. In terms of profitability, the quarter was in line with our expectations. I was particularly pleased to see our consumer security revenue growing again. F-Secures operator channel continues to show steady performance, supported by our very competitive and comprehensive portfolio. In corporate security, our core endpoint protection (EPP) business performed well. Reliable endpoint protection is the backbone of cyber security, and F-Secure continues to win recognition for its industry leading capabilities to stop cyber threats. In February, we won our seventh Best Protection Award from AV-TEST Institute. The new Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solution has improved our protection capabilities further, and forms an increasing part of the discussions with our partners and corporate customers, even if we are still at an early phase in this market. We continued to put our efforts into integrating our two Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solutions (Countercept & RDS) into a single very competitive modular solution. A combination of MDR solutions and adjacent consultancy services such as incident response allows us to help our customers react to cyber attacks effectively. This is reflected in the very high MDR renewal rates, which offers an important validation of the value we deliver and the trust our customers place on us. We expect to see significant variation in new customer acquisition between different quarters depending of the timing of the deals. In January-March, new sales were low, but revenue was in strong growth compared to the previous year. At the same time, our MDR sales pipeline continued to develop positively It was another good quarter for cyber security consulting with revenue growing across all regions. Our global ability to provide cyber advisory services is being recognized among corporate customers, and we closed a number of important new deals in many demanding verticals and expanded our services with existing customers. In the Nordics, revenue growth was driven by a large project, to which we also signed an extension during the quarter. The first three months were a good start for the year overall, and we continued to focus on the successful integration of MWR InfoSecurity. F-Secure has three strong businesses to build on: our cyber security product business for consumers and corporate customers, as well as our cyber security consulting business. With each business growing and having their unique strengths, we have a solid foundation for delivering on our strategy. Financial performance EUR m 1-3/2019 1-3/2018 Change % 1-12/2018 Revenue 53.4 43.1 24 % 190.7 Consumer security products 24.0 23.8 1 % 94.9 Corporate security 29.4 19.4 52% 95.9 Products 17.8 14.8 21 % 63.8 Consulting 11.6 4.6 158% 32.0 Cost of revenue -12.6 -7.3 72 % -39.4 Gross Margin 40.8 35.8 14 % 151.4 Other operating income 0.2 0.8 -77 % 2.3 Operating expenses 1) -36.0 -32.8 10 % -136.2 Sales & Marketing -23.5 -20.0 18 % -90.7 Research & Development -9.3 -9.1 2 % -33.6 Administration -3.2 -3.6 -12 % -11.9 Adjusted EBITDA 2) 5.04) 3.8 -31 % 17.4 of revenue, % 9.4 % 8.9 % 9.1 % M&A expenses -3.6 EBITDA 5.04) 3.8 31 % 13.8 of revenue, % 9.4 % 8.9 % 7.2 % Depreciation & amortization -3.34) -1.5 121 % -6.8 PPA amortization -1.2 -0.1 916 % -2.5 EBIT 0.64) 2.3 -74 % 4.6 of revenue, % 1.1 % 5.2 % 2.4 % Adjusted EBIT 2) 1.7 2.4 -26 % 10.6 of revenue, % 3.3 % 5.5 % 5.6 % Earnings per share, (EUR) 3) -0.01 0.00 -344 % 0.01 Deferred revenue 71.4 67.2 6 % 72.9 Cash flow from operations before financial items and taxes -0.34) 1.2 -130 % 13.8 Cash and financial assets at fair value through P&L 23.4 88.5 -74 % 27.8 ROI, % 1.6 % 19.9 % -92 % 7.9 % Equity ratio, % 41.3 % 70.4 % -41 % 42.7 % Gearing, % 36.5 % -123.1 % -130 % 13.9 % Personnel, end of period 1680 1145 47 % 1666 Excluding M&A related expenses, depreciation and amortization Adjustments are material items outside normal course of business associated with acquisitions, integration, gains or losses from sales of businesses and other items affecting comparability. Reconciliation and a breakdown of adjusted costs is in note 7 of the Table Section of this report. Based on the weighted average number of outstanding shares during the period 157,630,535 (1-3/2019). IFRS 16 increased Adjusted EBITDA and EBITDA by EUR 1.6 million and Adjusted EBIT and EBIT by EUR 0.1 million. Depreciation and amortization increased by EUR 1.5 million. Positive impact on cash flow from operations before financial items and taxes was EUR 1.5 million. Events after period-end No material changes regarding the companys business or financial position have materialized after the end of the quarter. Press Conference and Webcast CEO Samu Konttinen will present the results in Finnish at an analyst and press conference at the company's headquarters (address: Tammasaarenkatu 7, 00180 Helsinki) on the same day at 12.3013.30 pm. A webcast for investors and analysts will be held (in English) on the same day at 14.00 p.m. To participate in the online meeting, please click on the link: https://meet.f-secure.com/tapio.pesola/LKQG28Y0 To participate via phone, please dial in to +358975110100 (FI). The conference ID is 7098927. The material will be available at the company's website before the call begins: www.f-secure.com/investors. Additional information This is a summary of F-Secures Interim Report. The full report is attached to this stock exchange release and it is also available on the company's website at the address: www.f-secure.com/ir. Contact information Eriikka Soderstrom, CFO, F-Secure +358 40 6691844 Henri Kiili, IR Manager, F-Secure +358 40 8405450 Financial calendar F-Secure Corporation will publish its interim reports during 2019 as follows: Q2/2019: 19 July 2019 Q3/2019: 30 October 2019 Attachment SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) A federal appeals court ruled in San Francisco Tuesday that for the time being, the administration of President Donald Trump can force Central American asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while they pursue their asylum claims. A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a stay of a preliminary injunction by U.S. District Judge Richard Seeborg of San Francisco that would have blocked the policy. The stay will remain in effect while the government completes a full appeal of the injunction, a process that could take months. The policy, entitled the Migrant Protection Protocols, was begun by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in January. It was challenged in a lawsuit filed by 11 asylum seekers from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras and six immigration advocacy and legal services groups. Omar Jadwat, the director of the American Civil Liberties Union Immigrants' Rights Project, noted that two out of the three judges on the panel, while agreeing to the stay, expressed legal concerns about the policy. Jadwat said in a statement, "There is good reason to believe that ultimately this policy will be put to a halt." Seeborg said in his April 8 preliminary injunction ruling that the policy was not authorized by federal immigration law. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) A crewmember of an oil tanker was rescued early Tuesday morning after suffering a serious injury off the coast of San Francisco on Monday, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The crew of the tanker High Progress sent an email to the Coast Guard at about 2:20 p.m. Monday about a member who fell and suffered a neck injury. The Coast Guard was unable to respond immediately because of aircraft limitations, but the agency monitored the man's condition, which was stable, as the tanker headed toward San Francisco, Coast Guard officials said. Finally, a helicopter rescue crew arrived at about 4:20 a.m. Tuesday and lifted the man aboard. He was reported to still be in stable condition and was flown to Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto. "The quick reaction of the crew aboard High Progress to recognizing the severity of the injury was key in making this rescue successful," said Coast Guard Lt. Andrew Bacon in a statement. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) A federal judge in San Francisco said Tuesday that he plans to order PG&E Co.'s board of directors to visit Paradise, the Butte County town that was mostly destroyed by the deadly Camp Fire in 2018. The order by U.S. District Judge William Alsup would be part of the utility's sentence for violating its probation in a criminal pipeline safety case. Alsup said he also plans to order the board to visit San Bruno, the site of a fatal natural gas explosion in 2010, and to order the board to establish a committee to monitor implementation of PG&E's new wildfire safety plan. PG&E was placed on five years' probation after being convicted in 2016 of violating pipeline safety regulations and obstructing a probe of the San Bruno explosion. The probation violation was that it failed to inform its probation officer of a criminal misdemeanor probe and $1.5 million settlement with the Butte County District Attorney's Office in connection with the 150-acre Honey Fire in that county in 2017. No one was injured in that fire, alleged to have been caused by a tree branch falling on a power line. PG&E said in a statement, "We share the court's focus on safety.... The judge's sentence is a welcome opportunity for our new board to engage fully with Paradise and the city of San Bruno." Alsup ordered federal prosecutors and PG&E to submit proposed language for the sentence by May 14. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. BERKELEY (BCN) Authorities pulled a stolen car out of San Francisco Bay at Berkeley's Aquatic Park on Tuesday, police said. Staff members of the park first spotted the roof of a car submerged in the water around 7:45 a.m., said Officer Byron White. According to White, rescue swimmers from the fire department determined that there was no one inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. With the assistance of divers from Alameda County's sheriff's office, the car was towed from the water, allowing police to confirm that it was empty. Police determined that the vehicle had been reported stolen on Monday, White said. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. A man who served as a doorman at the Ghost Ship warehouse in Oakland's Fruitvale district the night of a fire that killed 36 people testified on Tuesday that the blaze erupted quickly. Ryan O'Keefe said the warehouse at 1309 31st Ave. "exploded into an inferno" when the fire started late on the night of Dec. 2, 2016, when there was a music party at the warehouse. O'Keefe, who had to be subpoenaed to come to court, took the witness stand on the second day of testimony in the trial of Ghost Ship master tenant Derick Almena, 49, and creative director Max Harris, 29, on 36 counts of involuntary manslaughter, which is one count for each of the 36 victims. Alameda County prosecutor Casey Bates alleged in his opening statement that Almena and Harris are criminally liable for the fire because there was no time and no way for the people at the party to escape since the warehouse didn't have important safeguards, such as fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and exit signs. Bates also said Almena and Harris violated the terms of the warehouse's lease by turning it into a living space and hosting underground music parties there. But Harris's lead attorney Curtis Briggs and Almena's lawyer Tony Serra alleged in their opening statements that the fire was an act of arson that Harris and Almena couldn't have prevented. Briggs said witnesses saw people at the party who they didn't recognize and heard popping sounds and glass breaking. Briggs also said one witness told investigators she saw 7 to 10 Latino males walk by the warehouse while it was burning and heard one of them say, "The way we put that wood in there they'll never come out." But O'Keefe, who was hired by party promoter Jon Hrabko to collect money from those who attended the event, cast doubt on the defense's claims by saying that he didn't see anyone at the party he didn't recognize. O'Keefe said he heard popping sounds but he thinks the sounds were from light bulbs popping and not from Molotov cocktails, which defense attorneys said might have been the source. O'Keefe said the glow of the fire was "orange, yellow and flickering." He said he was with Harris and two other people at the door when the fire started and they only had time to yell "Fire!" and run out, so there wasn't any time to collect his belongings, such as his wallet or laptop. Alameda County prosecutors said witness Robert "Jake" Jacobitz, who they had planned to call to the stand this week, died in San Pablo on Sunday afternoon. Superior Court Judge Trina Thompson, who is presiding over the trial, said Jacobitz's testimony in the preliminary hearing for Almena and Harris in December 2017 will be read into the record. Bates said in his opening statement that Almena rejected the advice of fellow leaseholder Nicholas Bouchard to hire a licensed electrician to bring the warehouse up to code and instead hired Jacobitz because he didn't have a license and would do the work for a cheaper price. When Jacobitz testified at the preliminary hearing he described the warehouse as "a death trap" because of all the electrical problems it had. The city of Gilroy reached a $25,000 settlement Tuesday in a lawsuit filed by a former dispatcher who alleged a "culture of sexual activity" in the police department. Patricia Harrell filed the lawsuit after she was fired in March 2016, saying the department retaliated against her for "refusal to condone or engage in the culture of sexual misconduct" after a career of nearly 30 years. Harrell said officers were having sexually explicit conversations at work, engaging in sexual activity with 14-to-21-year-old members of the Gilroy Explorers group and watching pornography in front of their employees. She disputed police claims that she was fired due to misconduct involving trainees. The city maintained throughout the lawsuit that Harrell's case had no merit, and said the settlement is an effort to end continued litigation. The settlement includes terms to change her termination into a resignation. "Our Police Department works very hard to protect and serve all people who live and work in Gilroy in a professional and ethical manner," Mayor Roland Velasco said in a statement, "I am confident that the department will continue to serve with professionalism and integrity." Over the course of the lawsuit, the scope of the complaint was whittled down from 15 separate causes of action to six causes of action through motions by the city and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees. Harrell also dismissed her sexual harassment claim against the city and several employees. Plaintiff's attorney Andrea Justo could not be reached for comment. An eighth-grader was struck by a vehicle near Harvest Park Middle School in Pleasanton Friday as he was heading across Greenwood Road north of Valley Avenue towards his mother's parked car, according to the police. Officers responded to the collision at 3:14 p.m. Friday. The student had left the west curb line and was emerging from between two parked cars at the time of the collision. He sustained injuries to his mouth and face requiring medical attention. Witnesses reported that the vehicle that slammed into the student continued south on Greenwood Road and parked along the curb on the other side of Valley Avenue. The driver waited for five minutes to pick up her child and then turned around and drove away. A dashcam of one of the witness' cars captured images of the vehicle. It was a silver Toyota Sienna van with a female driver. On Monday the driver of the Toyota reported to the police that she realized she had been involved in the collision after seeing a news story on social media. The police took her statement and said that she has been cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation. Anyone with further information regarding the collision can contact the Pleasanton Police Department at (925) 931-5100. Three large utility companies are coordinating a "Power of Being Prepared" media campaign to inform residents about public safety power shutoffs during very high or extreme fire threats. PG&E, San Diego Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison are undertaking the wildfire safety and awareness campaign at the direction of the California Public Utilities Commission. The campaign includes radio ads, preparedness resources and a new website, prepareforpowerdown.com, in advance of the 2019 wildfire season. Citing a recent report released by Gov. Gavin Newsom's strike force on wildfire issues, the utility companies say more than 25 million acres of California wildlands are classified as under very high or extreme fire threat, and 25 percent of the state's population - 11 million people - live in that high-risk area. The wildfire preparedness campaign urges residents to prepare emergency kits, download the Red Cross Emergency App, outline a family plan and practice safety drills before wildfires. The energy companies will turn off power to fire prone areas during extreme weather as a safety precaution, and residents should expect the public safety power shutoff could last multiple days. Each utility company will turn off power based on high winds, including Red Flag Warnings from the National Weather Service, low humidity, dry vegetation and conditions on the ground. The energy companies plan to send early-warning notifications by phone, text alerts, emails, and other means before turning off power. The energy companies also are working with customers to update their contact information and reach them before, during and after a public safety power shutoff. PG&E customers can update their contact information at pg&e.com/mywildfirealerts. Websites and social media channels also will share information and provide regular updates to local news and radio outlets. In advance of wildfires, residents should have backup phone charging methods, a plan for refrigerating of medications, a plan to take care of pets and livestock, agree on a family designated emergency meeting location, ensure backup generators are safe and learn how to manually open garage doors. More information about the Power of Being Prepared campaign is available at prepareforpowerdown.com. Low-income residents of certain Bay Area neighborhoods can get help to replace their old cars with clean air vehicles thanks to a new grant program administered by the region's air district. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District's "Clean Vehicles for All" program offers up to $9,500 for "low-income members of communities disproportionably affected by air pollution," according to the air district. Residents who qualify can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $9,500 to purchase electric, hybrid electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles. Grants of between $2,500 and $4,500 are also available for the purchase of Clipper cards, used to pay fares on 22 transit systems around the Bay Area, including BART, Alameda-Contra Costa Transit and San Francisco Municipal Railway. The $4.25 million program is only open to people who own cars that were built in 1996 or before and who live in one of 76 ZIP codes around the Bay Area. Also, only people earning 400 percent of the federal poverty level or below can participate, according to the air district. That means a single person can't earn more than $49,960 a year to be eligible and a family of four can't bring in more than $103,000. "The goal of the program is to take dirtier cars off the road and provide everyone with options to replace them with clean air vehicles," air district spokeswoman Simrun Dhoot said. To apply, people will have to provide proof of income, proof of residency and vehicle registration information, among other things. They will also have to fill out a federal W-9 tax information form, which means any money they receive from the air district will be taxable. The "Clean Vehicles for All" grants will be counted as income for the purposes of calculating people's eligibility for other types of assistance programs, such as food assistance, Social Security benefits or subsidized health care. "We are aware of those issues and will work with any future applicant on making sure they understand what this means for them," Dhoot said. "We want everyone to know exactly what they are getting into with this program." While the grants will be taxable, people can also apply for federal tax credits when buying some types of electric vehicles, and other rebates and incentives might be available from the California Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, Dhoot said. The air district grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until the funds are depleted, although Dhoot said it's possible the program could be extended if additional money is found, possibly from the Volkswagen settlement funds. Volkswagen's multi-billion-dollar settlement came in the wake of the company's sale of roughly 590,000 vehicles that were fitted with devices used to cheat on air emissions tests, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Initial funding for the program comes from California Climate Investments, the state's cap-and-trade program, which regulates the release of greenhouse gases. People interested in the air district program can visit its website at www.baaqmd.gov/cleancarsforall. San Mateo County Sheriff's officials are seeking a man who allegedly flashed two teenage girls walking in Millbrae over the weekend. According to sheriff's officials, the incident happened on Sunday around 6:40 p.m. on Mosswood Lane. The male suspect was driving a car on the opposite side of the street as the girls. The driver then pulled his vehicle to the side of the street, got out, pulled down his pants and exposed himself, sheriff's officials said. He then got back into his car and made a U-turn apparently to get onto the same side of the street as the teens. When the girls ran into a nearby residence, the man drove away before he could be identified. Police were unable to obtain a description of the suspect's vehicle. According to the sheriff's officials, homes in the area are being checked for security cameras in order to locate possible footage that may have captured him and his vehicle. Anyone with information can call the Millbrae Police Bureau at (650) 259-2300 or the San Mateo County Sheriff's anonymous tip line at (800) 547-2700. Marin County officials Wednesday morning are scheduled to announce a "significant drop in chronic homelessness" based on a point-in-time count in January. The Marin County Department of Health and Human Services will release the data at a press conference at 10 a.m. at the Board of Supervisors chambers in the county's Civic Center in San Rafael. The previous Marin County homeless count determined the number of sheltered and unsheltered homeless people decreased from 1,309 in 2015 to 1,117 in January 2017. Thirty-seven percent of the homeless were sheltered and 63 percent were not, according to the 2017 count. The Department of Health and Human Services said overall homelessness decreased but chronic homelessness increased between 2015 and 2017. Thirty-two percent were chronically homeless in 2017 compared to 20 percent in 2015, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. The point-in-time count is mandated every two years by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in order for communities to receive federal homelessness funding. Speakers, including Supervisors Damon Connolly and Katie Rice, will outline the county's programs and "whatever it takes" approach that has helped people find and keep stable housing, the Department of Health and Human Services said. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. OAKLAND (BCN) A construction trades worker who once was a close friend of Ghost Ship warehouse master tenant Derick Almena testified on Tuesday that Almena scoffed at him when he told Almena that the building in Oakland's Fruitvale neighborhood was unsafe. Rodney Griffin said when he told Almena in 2014 that he thought the warehouse, which also was called the Satya Yuga Collective, was a death trap, Almena laughed and said, "Ha, ha, we should called it the 'Satya Yuga death trap.'" Griffin took the witness stand on the second day of testimony in the trial of Derick Almena, 49, and creative director Max Harris, 29, on 36 counts of involuntary manslaughter for the fire during a music party at the warehouse at 1309 31st Ave. late on the night of Dec. 2, 2016, that killed 36 people. Alameda County prosecutor Casey Bates alleged in his opening statement last week that Almena and Harris are criminally liable for the fire because there was no time and no way for the people at the party to escape since the warehouse didn't have important safeguards, such as fire extinguishers, smoke alarms and exit signs. Bates also said Almena and Harris violated the terms of the warehouse's lease, which Almena signed on Nov. 10, 2013, by turning it into a living space and hosting underground music parties there. But Harris's attorney Curtis Briggs and Almena's lawyer Tony Serra alleged in their opening statements that the fire was an act of arson that Harris and Almena couldn't have prevented. Griffin said he has known Almena since 2010, lived with Almena and his family for a time and "considered him to be my brother" but later their relationship soured because of what he said was "a difference of opinion." Griffin said he first saw the warehouse around the time that Almena signed the lease when it was empty but when he visited it again six months later in 2014 it was filled with artwork, tapestries, rugs, statues, pianos, organs, RV's that were used as living spaces and "everything under the sun." Griffin said, "As much as it was a creative outlet it was very dangerous." Griffin also said it was very difficult to maneuver" inside the building because the layout was "confusing" and it wasn't clear where the exit was located. Griffin said Almena asked him to do a rough calculation of the cost of bringing the warehouse up to code so he estimated that it would cost $10,000 to do electrical repairs, $2,000 to install fire doors and $3,000 to put in stairs. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) A necropsy was completed Tuesday morning by scientists from The Marine Mammal Center and its partners at the California Academy of Sciences on the gray whale at Ocean Beach in San Francisco. They found the cause of death to be blunt force trauma likely attributable to a ship strike. The animal, stranded on Ocean Beach on Monday, was the ninth gray whale to wash onto the shores in the Bay Area this year. The scientists discovered multiple fractures on the animal's skull and upper vertebrae and significant bruising in the surrounding area consistent with injuries resulting from a collision. The Marine Mammal Center identified the whale as a 41-foot adult female in the early stages of decomposition. The team of scientists noted its blubber layer was thinner than expected, which indicated it had been in poor health. According to the center, an increased number of gray whales have been spotted this year. Representatives said that biologists have observed the species to be in poor condition as it migrates north, possibly because of its shifting food sources. Center officials speculated that over-fishing and water temperature changes associated with climate change might be contributing to reduced prey availability for gray whales. Dr. Padraig Duignan, chief research pathologist at the center, said that malnutrition might correlate with the relatively high number of beached whales this year. "As gray whale migration season enters its final stages of the season, adult female gray whales and their calves with low body reserves are the last to migrate northward to their feeding ground in the Arctic," Duignan said in a statement. "These mother whales are worn out and running on empty, making them even more susceptible to negative human interactions, including ship strikes and entanglements." Officials at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area are currently coordinating the removal of the whale's remains from Ocean Beach, said representatives of The Marine Mammal Center. Copyright 2019 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. English Danish Vestas Wind Systems A/S, Aarhus, 8 May 2019 Company announcement No. 09/2019 Summary: Revenue on par with last years first quarter while earnings and free cash flow decreased. Solid order intake and combined order backlog at all-time high level. Guidance for 2019 maintained. In the first quarter of 2019, Vestas generated revenue of EUR 1,730m an increase of 2 percent compared to the year-earlier period. EBIT before special items decreased by EUR 83m to EUR 43m. The EBIT margin was 2.5 percent compared to 7.4 percent in the first quarter of 2018 and free cash flow* amounted to EUR (876)m compared to EUR (587)m in the first quarter of 2018. The intake of firm and unconditional wind turbine orders amounted to 3,004 MW in the first quarter of 2019. The value of the wind turbine order backlog amounted to EUR 13.3bn as at 31 March 2019. In addition to the wind turbine order backlog, Vestas had service agreements with expected contractual future revenue of EUR 15.0bn at the end of March 2019. Thus, the value of the combined backlog of wind turbine orders and service agreements stood at EUR 28.3bn an increase of EUR 6.7bn compared to the year-earlier period. Vestas maintains its 2019 guidance on revenue of EUR 10.75bn-12.25bn, EBIT margin before special items of 8-10 percent, and total investments* of approx. EUR 700m. Group President & CEO Anders Runevad said: The strong global demand for wind energy continued in the first quarter of 2019 with Vestas growing its order intake with 84 percent to 3 GW and reaching an all-time high order backlog of EUR 28 bn. While underlying prices remain fairly stable and our Service business continues to grow in both revenue and profit, our results were as expected negatively impacted by orders received during the price decline in 2017. Furthermore, external factors such as tariffs and raw material prices increased cost as projected in the quarter. With activity levels planned to be significantly higher in the second half of 2019, we leverage our market-leading position to ramp up for executing an extraordinarily busy 2019, while introducing new solutions that accelerate the energy transition. Key highlights Record Q1 order intake and all-time high order backlog 3 GW of order intake in Q1 leads to combined order backlog of more than EUR 28bn; up 31 percent YoY Total revenue of EUR 1,730m 2 percent increase compared to Q1 2018 EBIT of EUR 43m EBIT margin at 2.5 percent impacted by competitive markets, tariffs, and back-end loaded activity level Strong service performance Revenue growth of 16 percent, and EBIT margin of 26.4 percent Positive contribution from MHI Vestas continues Contribution to net profit of EUR 5m; an underlying improvement of EUR 14m YoY *) Excl. the acquisition of SOWITEC Group GmbH, any investments in marketable securities, and short-term financial investments. Information meeting (audiocast) Today, Wednesday 8 May 2019 at 10 a.m. CEST (9 a.m. BST), Vestas will host an information meeting via an audiocast. The audiocast will be accessible via vestas.com/investor. The meeting will be held in English and questions may be asked through a conference call. The telephone numbers for the conference call are: Europe: +44 333 300 9267 USA: +1 646 722 4956 Denmark: +45 7815 0109 Presentation material for the information meeting will be available at vestas.com/investor approximately one hour before the meeting. Contact details Vestas Wind Systems A/S, Denmark Patrik Setterberg, Vice President, Investor Relations Tel: +45 6122 1913 Attachment New York, NY and Toronto, ON, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NEWMEDIAWIRE -- NexTech AR Solutions (the Company or NexTech) (OTCQB:NEXCF) (CSE:NTAR) (FSE:N29) today announced that it joined Khronos an exploratory group of leading retailers, manufacturers, and technology companies in a groundbreaking collaboration to establish 3D commerce standards and guidelines. The exploratory group was formed by Khronos Group, an open consortium of leading companies creating advanced 3D standards, at the end of April. Adobe, Deloitte Consulting, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, NVidia, Pinterest, Qualcomm, Samsung and Shopify are among the tech companies participating in the exploratory group. Khronos cited a study by Gartner that predicts massive growth for AR/VR shopping in the next few years as high-speed 5G technology expands worldwide. Gartner predicts that by 2020, more than 100 million consumers will shop using AR technology. About fifty percent of retailers plan to deploy AR/VR 3D technology by next year, according to the report. With 5G's higher speeds consumers will be able to experience real-time renderings creating truly immersive experiences. Once 5G technology is available NexTech is planning to launch a holographic fully volumetric 3D-AR human assistant which can be programmed to be used for eCommerce or for education. The exploratory group will work together to research the creation of standards and guidelines to produce and distribute real-time 3D representations of products so they can be experienced realistically and consistently across all platforms and devices, such as mobile, Web and Augmented Reality (AR) or Virtual Reality (VR) solutions. We are excited to join this incredible group of leading companies to help further the creation and adoption of 3D virtual products across a variety of platforms. As 3D visualization technologies become more prevalent, its crucial to be able to present these experiences consistently across multiple consumer endpoints like eCommerce websites, apps, in social feeds, and in ad units, said Evan Gappelberg, CEO of NexTech. Our diverse tech stack and leadership position in AR e-commerce makes us an ideal member for this group, as were able to address a major pain point through our solutions - transforming content from 2D into the 3D-AR e-commerce world. We look forward to collaborating together to solve the industrys friction points within 3D visualization, and to develop new standards that can shape the future of the technology. With 3D poised to grow as a new shopping medium for product manufacturers, retailers and advertising platforms, key players in the industry are now looking at how to scale production and achieve broad distribution for virtual products with optimized industry workflows to minimize costs. Working in collaboration with NexTech on this initiative are leading global retail brands and technology companies including Adobe, Autodesk, Dassault Systemes, Deloitte Consulting, Facebook, Ferguson Ventures, Google, Houzz, IKEA, JD.com, Lowes, Microsoft, NVIDIA, Pinterest, Qualcomm, Samsung, Shopify, Target, ThreeKit, Topline Furniture, Unity Technologies, UX3D, Wayfair, and Williams-Sonoma Inc./Outward. NexTechs industry-leading AR solutions empower retail organizations to use AR experiences to reach consumers at various touchpoints, including eCommerce, social media, and ad networks. The company has also enhanced its product offerings for 3D asset creation, making it easier for retailers to turn products into rich AR experiences. About the Khronos Group The Khronos Group is an open industry consortium of over 140 leading hardware and software companies creating advanced, royalty-free, acceleration standards for 3D graphics, Augmented and Virtual Reality, vision processing and machine learning. Khronos standards include Vulkan, OpenGL, OpenGL ES, OpenGL SC, WebGL, SPIR-V, OpenCL, SYCL, OpenVX, NNEF, COLLADA, OpenXR and glTF. Khronos members are enabled to contribute to the development of Khronos specifications, are empowered to vote at various stages before public deployment and are able to accelerate the delivery of their cutting-edge accelerated platforms and applications through early access to specification drafts and conformance tests. About NexTech AR Solutions Corp. NexTech is bringing a next-generation web enabled augmented reality (AR) platform with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and analytics to the Cannabis industry, eCommerce, education, training, healthcare and video conferencing. Having integrated with Shopify, Magento and Wordpress, its technology offers eCommerce sites a universal 3D shopping solution. With just a few lines of embed code, the companys patent-pending platform offers the most technologically advanced 3D AR/AI technology anywhere. Online retailers can subscribe to NexTechs state-of-the-art, 3D AR/AI solution for $79/mo. The company has created the AR industrys first end-to-end affordable, intelligent, frictionless, scalable platform. To learn more, please follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, or visit our website: https://www.nextechar.com. On behalf of the Board of NexTech AR Solutions Corp. Evan Gappelberg CEO and Director For further information, please contact: Evan Gappelberg Chief Executive Officer info@nextechar.com Media contact: Erin Hadden FischTank Marketing and PR ehadden@fischtankpr.com The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Certain information contained herein may constitute forward-looking information under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, will be, looking forward or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results will occur. Forward-looking statements regarding the Company increasing investors awareness are based on the Companys estimates and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements of NexTech to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including capital expenditures and other costs. 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. NexTech will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. Visiongain has launched a new cyber report Artificial Intelligence in Cyber Security Market Report 2019-2029: Forecasts by Component (Hardware, Software, Services), by Deployment Type (On-premise, Cloud, Hybrid), by Security Type (Endpoint Security, Network Security, Application Security, Cloud Security), by Technology (Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Context Awareness Computing), by Application (Antivirus/Antimalware, Identity and Access Management (IAM), Risk and Compliance Management, Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems, Encryption, Unified Threat Management (UTM), Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Others), by Industry (Enterprise, BFSI, Government & Defence, Retail, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Automotive & Transportation, Others), Leading Company Analysis, Regional and Leading National Market Analysis. The increasing number of cyber frauds and malicious attacks is one of the prime growth factors of artificial intelligence in the cyber security market. In addition, the growing adoption of bring your own devices (BYOD) in organisations is also anticipated to drive the growth of artificial intelligence in the cyber security market. With the rising incidences of cyber-crimes, artificial intelligence in the cybersecurity market will gain traction in years to come. Cyber-frauds such as identity and payment card thefts, account for over 55% of all cyber-crimes and may prove costly for organisations, if not resolved quickly. Artificial intelligence offers solutions to combat cyber fraud by identifying threat detection, reducing response time and refining techniques to distinguish attacks that require immediate attention. In the United States, Government Accountability Office (GAO) reported rising cyber incidents which are growing annually, despite taking stringent action to combat them. Download free sample pages or purchase report Some of the major trends in artificial intelligence in the cybersecurity market include the growing use of cloud in cybersecurity and the rising adoption of chatbots to combat cyber-crimes. Cloud-based cyber security is also gaining prominence, as the cloud appears to be more cost effective and affordable for SMEs and large enterprises. Cloud-based cybersecurity enhances intelligence gathering of data and threat modelling, enhancing collaboration of data, blocking attacks and minimising the delay between detection and remediation, which results in a secure communication channel. It also reduces the hardship to purchase, maintain, and hire support personnel, enabling companies to address security issues at a lower cost. Usage of the cloud to combat cyber-crimes through artificial intelligence is gaining traction with some of the major companies are investing heavily in artificial intelligence capabilities for cognitive computing. It improves not only the current cloud platform incumbency but also empowers a new generation of cloud computing technologies to mitigate security risk. Artificial intelligence based cloud computing offers powerful speech recognition, text analysis and fast dynamic translation, which allow countering cyber threats, which will drive growth for artificial intelligence in the cybersecurity market in years to come. If you are interested in a more detailed overview of this report, please send an e-mail to sara.peerun@visiongain.com or call her on 0207 549 9987 The Visiongain report analyst commented Chatbots are gaining significance as they understand the need of the user and provide a specific set of responses for which they are trained. They are also poised to disrupt various industries, such as retail, and banking and insurance, and are personified through artificial intelligence. The disruption in technology brings new security concerns, and chatbots are expected to overcome big cyber-crimes. Adoption of artificial intelligences core technologies such as NLP, and machine learning, coupled with thousands of learning iterations, will enable chatbots to combat cyber threats and other malicious attacks in the years to come, which will fuel the growth for artificial intelligence in cyber security market. Leading companies featured in the report who are developing Artificial Intelligence in Cyber Security and its related products and services include BAE System, Cisco, DXC, IBM, Intel, Kaspersky, Lockheed, McAfee, Nvidia, Palo Alto, Symantec and Trend among others. For more Cyber reports, visit our website: https://www.visiongain.com/industries/cyber/ Related reports: Internet of Things (IoT) Security Market Report 2019-2029 Next Generation Cyber Security Market Report 2018-2028 Facial Recognition Technology Market Report 2019-2029 Notes for Editors If you are interested in a more detailed overview of this report, please send an e-mail to sara.peerun@visiongain.com or call her on 0207 549 9987 About Visiongain Visiongain is one of the fastest-growing and most innovative independent media companies in Europe. Based in London, UK, we produce a host of business-to-business reports focusing on the automotive, aviation, chemicals, cyber, defence, energy, food & drink, materials, packaging, pharmaceutical and utilities sectors. Visiongain publishes reports produced by analysts who are qualified experts in their field. Visiongain has firmly established itself as the first port of call for the business professional who needs independent, high-quality, original material to rely and depend on. NEW YORK, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The surgical site infection market is growing on account of a rise in the volume of surgeries and resulting infections, growing geriatric population, and advancements in technology. The domain size, which was $4.0 billion in 2017, is expected to grow to $5.9 billion by 2023 at a CAGR of 6.4% during 20182023 (forecast period). By definition, the market includes all the equipment and procedures used to prevent or treat surgical infections. On the basis of phase, the market can be divided into preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative. Request to get the sample pages of the report: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/surgical-site-infection-market/report-sample Among these, the intraoperative category held the highest revenue share of 40.8% in the market in 2017, owing to the efforts being made to prevent or treat infections acquired during this stage as well as to ensure adherence to World Health Organization guidelines. Similarly, when segmented by product, the surgical site infection market can be divided into antibiotic prophylaxis products, antiseptics and disinfectants, wound care dressings, surgical drapes, surgical staff clothing, patient-warming products, wound care supplementary products, clippers, wound irrigation products, and others. Among these, antibiotic prophylaxis products generated $761.1 million in 2017 for the market on their own, as these are the most common method to prevent infections. Besides these, antiseptics and disinfectants are also widely used during and after surgeries, which is why this category is expected to grow the fastest in the surgical site infection market during the forecast period at a CAGR of 7.4%. Because of the presence of biocides, antiseptics and disinfectants are being increasingly used before surgeries to minimize the chances of SSIs. Browse report overview with 113 tables and 68 figures spread through 177 pages and detailed TOC on "Surgical Site Infection Market at: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/surgical-site-infection-market Across the globe, the domain is advancing due to the growing volume of surgeries and rising incidents of SSIs. According to the World Bank, 30,537 surgeries were done per 100,000 people in the U.S. in 2012, while the number for Australia stood at 28,907 per 100,000 people. Now, a lot of surgeries, even though all preventive measures are taken, result in infections. As per the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, between 2013 and 2014, of the 967,191 surgeries performed in Europe, 18,364 resulted in infections. Thus, with the growing number of surgeries in the future, the incidents of infection will also increase, taking the SSI market forward. Now, one of the primary reasons the volume of surgeries is growing is the increase in geriatric population. As the elderly are more prone to diseases requiring surgical intervention, a rise in their population will automatically propel the number of surgeries performed. Further, aged people are also more susceptible to infections on account of their low immunity, which is why such people would be another primary growth driver of the surgical site infection market during the forecast period. Make enquiry before buying the report: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/send-enquiry?enquiry-url=surgical-site-infection-market Globally, North America contributed the highest revenue share (38.4%) to the domain in 2017, owing to a growing awareness about SSIs, presence of a large number of SSI product manufacturers, and developed healthcare infrastructure. While the continent will still lead the SSI market during the forecast period, Asia-Pacific will witness the fastest growth, at a 7.7% CAGR. This can be attributed to the increase in geriatric population, improvements in healthcare infrastructure, rising incidents of such infections, and penetration of advanced products for SSI prevention and management. Therefore, it is clear that the growth in geriatric population will result in an increase in the number of surgeries, which will further the market for SSI across the world. More Related Reports by P&S Intelligence Wound Care Market The global wound care market was valued at $24,482.9 million in 2015, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% during the period 2016 - 2022. The wound care market is growing due to increasing geriatric population, increase in volume of sugeries and increasing awareness about wound care products. Increasing cases of diabetes leading to pressure ulcer formation is further generating an increased demand for wound care products. https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/wound-care-market Chronic Pain Treatment Market The chronic pain treatment market is expected to witness the fastest growth in the APAC region. This can be mainly attributed to the high prevalence of chronic pain among people in the region. Among all age groups, the elderly are the most susceptible to chronic conditions, such as arthritis, neuropathic disorders, and back pain. According to the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), the number of aged people in the region is expected to increase twofold, from 535 million in 2015 to 1.3 billion by 2050. https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/chronic-pain-treatment-market About P&S Intelligence P&S Intelligence is a provider of market research and consulting services catering to the market information needs of burgeoning industries across the world. Providing the plinth of market intelligence, P&S as an enterprising research and consulting company, believes in providing thorough landscape analyses on the ever-changing market scenario, to empower companies to make informed decisions and base their business strategies with astuteness. Contact: P&S Intelligence Toll-free: +1-888-778-7886 (USA/Canada) International: +1-347-960-6455 Email: enquiry@psmarketresearch.com Web: https://www.psmarketresearch.com Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) The opposition finds Malacanang's latest "Oust Duterte" matrix a joke that is not at all funny. The matrix, presented by Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo in a white cartolina during a briefing on Wednesday, names personalities involved in a supposed conspiracy to oust President Rodrigo Duterte and boost the candidacy of opposition senatorial slate Otso Diretso. It also included some of the journalists and news organizations in an earlier matrix released April 22. "Another matrix? This is the same joke told over and over again by the Palace," Otso Diretso candidate and human rights lawyer Chel Diokno said in a statement. Former Solicitor General Florin Hilbay said Malacanang's claims are nothing but gossip if the Palace will not be able to present evidence. He denied being involved in any attempt to overthrow the government, "and I'm confident that my Otso Diretso running-mates can say the same." They believe the administration is out to discredit the opposition, and not the other way around. "Yung kanilang atake ay dinesign na idescredit ang oposisyon gaya ng ginagawa ng Presidente everytime na nangangampanya siya," Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano told reporters in a chance interview. During campaign sorties of ruling PDP-Laban party, the President criticizes each of the Otso Diretso bets as he urges the public to vote for the administration candidates instead. Aside from the Otso Diretso candidates, other personalities linked to the ouster plot, have challenged the Palace to prove its claims. In the absence of concrete evidence, journalist Ellen Tordesillas said these are "just silly diagrams" while Edwin Lacierda, spokesperson of former President Benigno Noynoy Aquino III, called it a grade school matrix." Panelo said it was Duterte's order for him to present the matrix, but said he did not know the sources of the intelligence information. He said the personalities all worked in the same office and that they all shared on social media the "Ang Totoong Narco List" videos which alleged that the Presidents 13-year-old daughter, his son former Davao City Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte, senatorial candidate and former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Bong Go, and Davao City Mayor Sara Dutertes husband Manases Carpio are deep into the drug syndicate. "Bikoy," the supposed whistleblower, who recently surfaced as Peter Joemel Advincula, was also included in the Palace's matrix, along with the supposed video narrator Bong Banal. Otso Diretso said the government should investigate Advincula's claims instead of going after those who shared the videos. "If proven false, Bikoy should be punished; but if proven wrong, then others must be punished," Diokno said. (All amounts expressed in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated) TORONTO, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Torex Gold Resources Inc. (the "Company" or "Torex") (TSX:TXG) reports the Companys financial and operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2019. Fred Stanford, President & CEO of Torex stated: As previously communicated, 2019 guidance is weighted toward the second half of the year. We expect to achieve at least the lower end of the guidance range, by producing for the remainder of the year at an average throughput rate of 12,600 tpd, at grades predicted by the reserve model, and at design gold recovery levels. In Q1 several changes were made in the processing plant, and it is best in such circumstances to change one thing at a time. Since there are no losses associated with ore in stockpile, throughput rates were the third priority. The initial changes were focused on improving recovery and then on reducing costs by lowering reagent consumption. Once those improvements were entrenched, the focus shifted to improving throughput rates, which largely took place in April. The team has been successful in all three improvement initiatives. Recoveries for the quarter were 1% above design level, achieving 88% gold recovery. Reagent consumption also improved steadily through each month of the year to date. Further improvement is expected once upgrades to the SART plant are completed in Q3. In April, additional maintenance downtime was taken in support of the initiatives to increase throughput. Subsequent to these changes, the throughput rate per hour in May has increased by 6.4% and with the larger maintenance jobs completed, uptime is expected to be higher in the remainder of the quarter as well. In April, even with the additional planned maintenance downtime, gold production was 34,400 ounces. This bodes well for grade, which has increased as predicted by the reserve model. With grades as forecasted, rising throughput levels, and effective gold recovery, the operations are expected to deliver on their potential. This release should be read in conjunction with the Company's March 31, 2019 Financial Statements and MD&A on the Company's website or on SEDAR. HIGHLIGHTS Gold produced totalled 77,870 ounces. Income before income tax was $4.9 million. Mine production averaged 149,272 tpd. Net loss was $1.3 million or $0.02 per share. Mine ore production averaged 12,816 tpd. Adjusted net loss1 of $5.7 million, or $0.07/share. Grade mined averaged 2.45 gpt. Cash flow from operations totalled $32.3 million. Grade processed averaged 2.62 gpt. Cash balances as at March 31, 2019 totalled $118.5 million (including restricted cash of $26.9 million). Plant throughput averaged 11,956 tpd. Total cash costs1 per ounce of gold sold of $745. Gold recovery averaged 88%. All-in sustaining costs1 per ounce of gold sold of $1,161. Gold sold was 76,473 ounces for $99.6 million. Principal repayments of $20.7 million. Revenue was $101.9 million, cost of sales was $85.1 million, or $1,113 per ounce of gold sold. Earnings from mine operations were $16.8 million. Positive results from first infill program targeting the El Limon Deep (ELD) Zone2 The Company announced the results from the first 32 holes of its infill drill program targeting the ELD zone, in preparation for a maiden underground resource estimate. Highlights include intercepts of 25.0 g/t Au over 8.5m in borehole LDUG-026, 24.9 g/t Au Eq. over 7.5m in borehole LDUG-013, 16.8 g/t Au Eq. over 15.2m in borehole LDUG-021, and 12.5 g/t Au Eq. over 45.9m in borehole LDUG-002. Muckahi3 Initial components have arrived on site with physical testing of the Muckahi Mining System (Muckahi) underway and expected to be completed by the end of 2019. Field trials are underway for the first piece of equipment for Muckahi. The first tunneling blast of the field trials was taken in March 2019. The round was successfully drilled from the monorail mounted Muckahi jumbo drill. Two additional blasts have subsequently been successfully completed. The second piece of equipment, the Muckahi service platform, is expected to be in service in the second quarter. The goal is to demonstrate Muckahis capabilities over the full development cycle for tunneling, including on a minus 30-degree gradient, and to demonstrate the capability of the system to lower costs in long hole open stope mining. Qualified Persons Scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dawson Proudfoot, P.Eng., Vice President, Engineering, of Torex Gold Resources Inc. and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Conference Call The Company will host a conference call today at 9:00 am (ET) where senior management will discuss the Q1 2019 operational and financial results. Access the conference call as follows: Webcast access: A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available on the Companys website at www.torexgold.com . Telephone access: Please call the numbers below approximately ten minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call. Toronto local or international 1 (416) 915-3239 Toll-Free (North America) 1 800-319-4610 Toll-Free (France) 0 800-900-351 Toll-Free (Switzerland) 0-800-802-457 Toll-Free (United Kingdom) 0 808-101-2791 The webcast will be archived on the Companys website. About Torex Torex is an intermediate gold producer based in Canada, engaged in the exploration, development and operation of its 100% owned Morelos Gold Property, an area of 29,000 hectares in the highly prospective Guerrero Gold Belt located 180 kilometers southwest of Mexico City. The Companys principal assets are the El Limon Guajes mining complex (the ELG Mine Complex), comprised of the El Limon, Guajes and El Limon Sur open pits, the El Limon Guajes underground mine including zones referred to as Sub-Sill and El Limon Deep, and the processing plant and related infrastructure, which is in the commercial production stage as of April 1, 2016, and the Media Luna deposit, which is an early stage development project, and for which the Company issued an updated preliminary economic assessment in September 2018. The property remains 75% unexplored. For further information, please contact: TOREX GOLD RESOURCES INC. Fred Stanford President and CEO Tel.: (647) 260-1502 Email: fred.stanford@torexgold.com Steven Thomas Chief Financial Officer Tel.: (647) 260-1505 Email: steven.thomas@torexgold.com CAUTIONARY NOTES PRELIMINARY ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT The Company prepared a technical report (the Technical Report) on Morelos Property entitled NI 43-101 Technical Report ELG Mine Complex Life of Mine Plan and Media Luna Preliminary Economic Assessment, which has an effective date of March 31, 2018, has been filed with SEDAR and posted on the Companys website. The Technical Report includes a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) on the Media Luna Project. A preliminary economic assessment should not be considered a prefeasibility study or feasibility study, as the economics and technical viability of the Media Luna Project have not been demonstrated at this time. The PEA is preliminary in nature and includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of the inferred mineral resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Furthermore, there is no certainty that the conclusions or results as reported in the Media Luna PEA will be realized. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not do not have demonstrated economic viability. The Media Luna PEA includes information on Muckahi. It is important to note that Muckahi is experimental in nature and has not been tested in an operating mine. Many aspects of the system are conceptual, and proof of concept has not been demonstrated. Drill and blast fundamentals, standards and best practices for underground hard rock mining are applied in the Muckahi, where applicable. The proposed application of a monorail system for underground transportation for mine development and production mining is unique to underground hard rock mining. There are existing underground hard rock mines that use a monorail system for transportation of materials and equipment, however not in the capacity described in the Technical Report. Aspects of Muckahi mining equipment are currently in the design stage. The mine design, equipment performance and cost estimations are conceptual in nature, and do not demonstrate technical or economic viability. The Company expects to complete the development and test the concept by the end of 2019 for the mine development activities and up to five years for the mine production activities (approx. second quarter 2023). Further studies would be required to verify the viability of Muckahi. Muckahi is not intended as a trade off study but is shown in the PEA to merely demonstrate the potential benefits Muckahi may have using the Media Luna deposit as an example. It includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Notwithstanding the Company's efforts, there can be no guarantee that the Company will not face unforeseen delays or further disruptions of its operations including without limitation, delays caused by blockades limiting access to the ELG Mine Complex and the Media Luna Project or by blockades or trespassers impacting the Companys ability to operate. Forward-looking information also includes, but is not limited to, the expectation that reagent consumption levels will improve futher with the upgrade to the SART plant in the third quarter of 2019, the expected successful completion of the ramp-up of the processing plant and achieving throughput of 12,600 tpd by year-end, achieving the lower end of guidance, expectation that grade improving to levels above plan, expectation that future production is expected to increase as the new leadership implements the throughput initiative, plans to further examine the potential of the new mining technology (Muckahi) including the expected timing and completion of the testing of the completed system, and the goal to demonstrate Muckahis capabilities over the full development cycle for tunneling, including on a minus 30-degree gradient, and to demonstrate the capability of the system to lower costs in long hole open stope mining. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or potential or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", or "will be taken", "occur", or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including, without limitation, uncertainty as a result of the preliminary nature of the PEA and the Companys ability to realize the results of the PEA, uncertainty regarding the inclusion of inferred mineral resources in the mineral resource estimate, uncertainty involving resource estimates and the ability to extract those resources economically, or at all, risks associated with skarn deposits, uncertainty involving drilling programs and the Companys the regulatory process and actions, the success of the Muckahi mining system, the ability to fund the development and testing of Muckahi, the ability to finance the Media Luna Project on reasonable terms, and those risk factors identified in the Technical Report and the Companys annual information form and managements discussion and analysis. Forward-looking information are based on the assumptions discussed in the Technical Report and such other reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. 1 Refer to Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures in the Companys March 31, 2019 MD&A for further information and a detailed reconciliation. 2 For more information on the drill results, see the Companys news release titled Torex Announces Positive Results from its First Infill Program Targeting the El Limon Deep (ELD) Zone issued on February 14, 2019, and filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Companys website at www.torexgold.com . 3 The Media Luna PEA (as defined in the Companys March 31, 2019 MD&A) is preliminary in nature and includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. The Media Luna PEA includes information on the Muckahi Mining System (Muckahi). The PEA economics for the Media Luna Project in the Technical Report (as defined in the Companys March 31, 2019 MD&A) are based on conventional mining methods. In addition, Muckahi, a Torex proprietary mining method, is introduced and described in the Technical Report. The Technical Report uses the Media Luna Project as a platform for comparison to demonstrate the potential benefits that could be possible if the Muckahi method is proven and ultimately applied to the Media Luna Project, or any other deposit that does not employ caving methods. It is important to note that Muckahi is experimental in nature and has not been tested in an operating mine. Many aspects of the systems are conceptual, and proof of concept has not been demonstrated. Battle Ground, Washington, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mark commented, As a sponsor of the show, our company executives, team members and I, are excited to have been invited to participate again. This will be our sixth MoneyShow in the past two years, and our second in Las Vegas! We hope to exceed last years success where we raised a substantial amount of investor equity and sold many pieces from our collections. As in last Julys Las Vegas MoneyShow, weve reserved a spectacular 10 x 20 foot booth, and are eager to display many of our most impressive high-end sculptures. One of the newest editions to our silver editions sculpture collection is by world-famous Lorenzo Ghiglieri, Sovereign Reign. It was cast with 1,000 Troy oz. of pure .999 silver. Thousands of his sculptures are in collections around the world, including the Vatican and The White House! Another silver example we are eager to introduce, also created by Lorenzo Ghiglieri will be our The New American Patriot - Silver Edition, depicting the magnificent American Bald Eagle holding Article One of the U. S. Constitution in its talons. Its fraternal twin, a bronze edition of this sculpture, will also be there. Befitting the MoneyShow theme, a sculpture weve named The New Powerful Exchange will be prominently featured. It depicts the American Stock Exchange, a fierce confrontation between a bull and a bear. During the California Gold Rush, miners used to actually pit bears and bulls together in a fighting ring. The bloody sport eventually was outlawed, but the symbolic strength of the two animals translated into modern Wall Street catchphrase, as the bull tends to slash upward and the bear strikes downward. Continuing in a patriotic theme, we will feature one of our most sought-after bronze sculptures depicting our countrys iconic Bald Eagle holding our American flag in its talons. Weve named it, The Spirit of America. Mark adds, I am particularly excited to present a series of illuminating and fun workshops to clients, shareholders and all attendees. I expect this event to be one of the most exciting well attend this year. It certainly was a highlight for us when we were a sponsor last year in July and were honored when Kim Githler, CEO of the MoneyShow, graciously introduced us during the opening ceremonies in Las Vegas. The MoneyShow, founded in 1981, is a privately held financial media company headquartered in Florida, with a global network of investing and trading partners. MoneyShow presents an extensive agenda of live and online events that attract over 75,000 investors, traders and financial advisers from around the world. In addition to the 200+ workshops, the Interactive Exhibit Hall will display new products, including an impressive display of some of the newest creations from Foundry Michelangelo. About Treasure Investments Corporation, dba Foundry Michelangelo Foundry Michelangelos Founder and Chairman, Mark Russo, and President and CEO Casey Powell, have built a diverse business platform, creating and providing fine art in original sculptures from small desktop collectibles to larger-than-life heroic monuments cast in bronze, pure silver, gold and resin. The companys master mold collection contains over 1,500 original molds from world-famous artists. Featured artists remain world-famous Lorenzo Ghiglieri and his son, Laran, but now include works created from a substantial collection of company-owned original molds, including iconic works from Frederic Remington, C. M. Russel, Edgar Degas, Auguste Rodin and Michelangelo. For more information, visit foundrymichelangelo.com Attachments House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has come under fire for steering the Democrats away from impeaching President Trump, since declaring he "is just not worth it" back in March and she again sounded that note Tuesday during an event in New York City. MORE: Ex-White House lawyer defies House subpoena for Mueller documents "Trump is goading us to impeach him," said Pelosi. "That's what he's doing. Every single day, he's just like taunting, taunting, taunting, because he knows that it would be very divisive in the country, but he doesn't really care. He just wants to solidify his base." Click through the gallery above for reactions to Pelosi's comments Critics quickly began to poke fun at Pelosi's comments as a rationale for avoiding impeachment. Many advocates of impeaching the president argued it was an appropriate response to the president's actions, regardless of any goading that may or may not be taking place. "Nothing will make her impeach this dude," one observer dryly noted. Others defended Pelosi. "I TRUST NANCY PELOSI," tweeted one such supporter. Still others called all the impeachment talk hysterical. "Pelosi knows there is nothing to impeach our president, so this is the best she can come up with in front of her constituents!" wrote one critic. OPINION: Did Nancy Pelosi just jump the shark? At the New York event, Pelosi stressed the need for Democrats to get "more information" and said the president is obstructing justice "every day." She refuted Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's comments that the investigation into Trump was "case closed." "Just as a matter of observation, that's just not a fact," said Pelosi. "The case is not closed." Scrutiny of the president intensified Tuesday when the New York Times released a report allegedly detailing the contents of the president's tax returns from 1985 to 1994. "Year after year, Mr. Trump appears to have lost more money than nearly any other individual American taxpayer," wrote the Times. A massive housing complex of nearly 400 units spread across three multi-story buildings is now open for business in a bustling Oakland neighborhood. Commuters likely noticed MacArthur Commons spring up about a block from the namesake BART Station in Oakland's Temescal neighborhood recently, blocking the once expansive views of the East Bay hills from train passengers' views. The project broke ground just over two years ago, and one building is currently open for renting, with units ranging in price from $2,795 a month to $4,425 a month for a two-bedroom, according to the online leasing portal. ALSO: Artist's custom-designed wine country estate listed for $6.7M The remaining two buildings will open in the coming weeks, said Kevin Chow of Hines, the real estate development company behind the project. In total, there are 385 units within the Commons: seven lofts, 59 studios, 241 one-bedroom apartments and 78 two-bedroom apartments, Hines said. Upscale amenities include a pool and hot tub, indoor/outdoor "Skydeck," bike repair station and a "pedestrian plaza." The building is distinct largely due to its location: just steps from MacArthur BART and situated within the Temescal corridor, where walkable restaurants and hip bars and breweries abound. MacArthur Commons has had a mixed reception in the neighborhood, which is both in need of transit-accessible housing but has undergone rapid gentrification in the past few years. In 2016, when the Commons was first proposed to residents, some feared it "would effectively be a vertical gated community whose height and wealth would be at odds with the area," the New York Times reported. ALSO: See how an SF architect transformed a 1,000-square-foot home into a light, livable space The building represents a larger movement toward increasing housing density near transit stations, with lawmakers like California Sen. Scott Weiner pushing bills like S.B. 50, which would change zoning codes to allow taller and denser residential buildings to be built near public transit. BART has undergone a recent "philosophical shift" aligning with Weiner's housing ethos, and some sort of development project is either intended, underway or completed at most of its 45 stations, according to Oakland Magazine. Read Michelle Robertson's latest stories and send her news tips at michelle.robertson@sfgate.com. Start receiving breaking news emails on wildfires, civil emergencies, riots, national breaking news, Amber Alerts, weather emergencies, and other critical events with the SFGATE breaking news email. Click here to make sure you get the news. English Italian RECORDATI ANNOUNCES GROWTH IN THE FIRST QUARTER 2019. NEW THREE YEAR BUSINESS PLAN APPROVED. Consolidated revenues 383.0 million, +4.5%. EBITDA (1) 143.9 million, +7.1% 143.9 million, +7.1% Operating income 126.0 million, +4.5%. Net income 92.1 million, +6.4%. Net financial position (2) : net debt of 555.7 million. : net debt of 555.7 million. Shareholders equity 1,067.3 million. Exclusive license for the commercialization of Juxtapid in Japan. Business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021 approved. Milan, 8 May 2019 The Board of Directors of Recordati S.p.A. approved the Groups consolidated results for the first quarter of 2019 prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standards and International Financial Reporting Standards (IAS/IFRS) and in particular as per IAS 34 requirements for interim reporting. The financial statements at 31 March 2019 will be available today at the companys offices and on the companys website www.recordati.com and can also be viewed on the authorized storage system 1Info (www.1Info.it). Financial highlights Consolidated revenues in the first quarter of 2019 are 383.0 million, up by 4.5% compared to the same period of the preceding year. International sales grow by 4.6%. in the first quarter of 2019 are 383.0 million, up by 4.5% compared to the same period of the preceding year. International sales grow by 4.6%. EBITDA (1) , at 37.6% of sales, is 143.9 million, an increase of 7.1% over the first quarter of 2018. , at 37.6% of sales, is 143.9 million, an increase of 7.1% over the first quarter of 2018. Operating income , at 32.9% of sales, is 126.0 million, an increase of 4.5% over the same period of the preceding year. , at 32.9% of sales, is 126.0 million, an increase of 4.5% over the same period of the preceding year. Net income, at 24.1% of sales, is 92.1 million, an increase of 6.4% over the first quarter of 2018. at 24.1% of sales, is 92.1 million, an increase of 6.4% over the first quarter of 2018. Net financial position (2) at 31 March 2019 records a net debt of 555.7 million compared to net debt of 588.4 million at 31 December 2018. Shareholders equity is 1,067.3 million. (1) Operating income before depreciation, amortization and write down of both tangible and intangible assets. (2) Cash and short-term financial investments less bank overdrafts and medium/long-term loans which include the measurement at fair value of hedging derivatives. Business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021 The Board of Directors of Recordati S.p.A. also approved the business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021. The financial expectations for the plan period are the following: For 2019, as already announced on 21 December 2018, our targets are to achieve sales ranging from 1,430 million to 1,450 million, an EBITDA of between 520 and 530 million, EBIT of between 460 and 470 million and net income of between 330 and 335 million. For 2021, including the contribution of further acquisitions which may be completed within the period under analysis, we expect to achieve sales of around 1,700 million, EBITDA of around 650 million, operating income of around 560 million and net income of around 400 million. As already announced on 15 April 2019, Recordati will present the results of the first quarter 2019 and the business plan for the three-year period 2019-2021, approved by the Board of Directors, at the London Stock Exchange tomorrow 9 May at 10:30 (GMT). The full presentation will be available on the companys website www.recordati.it . Management comments The financial results obtained in the first quarter of the year confirm the continued growth of the Group, declared Andrea Recordati, CEO. Furthermore, in February we signed a license agreement with Aegerion Pharmaceuticals Inc. for the exclusive rights to commercialize Juxtapid, currently approved for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), in Japan. The agreement includes a right of first negotiation for product commercialization in Japan of any potential new indications that may be developed by Aegerion. The addition of Juxtapid to our portfolio of rare disease products in Japan is very important for the development of our recently established subsidiary in this country, given its potential for significant growth, continued Andrea Recordati. Finally, the Board of Directors examined and approved the three-year business plan which confirms the Groups commitment to continue to follow the successful growth strategy implemented in recent years. Alongside the growth and development of our current business we intend to pursue an intense but disciplined and focused M&A activity with the objective of accelerating the Groups growth and adding sustainable value for shareholders. Over the plan period we expect a revenue average growth rate of 7.9%, an average growth rate of 9.2% for EBITDA, 8.2% for operating income and 8.6% for net income. Recordati, established in 1926, is an international pharmaceutical group, listed on the Italian Stock Exchange (Reuters RECI.MI, Bloomberg REC IM, ISIN IT 0003828271), with a total staff of more than 4,100, dedicated to the research, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals. Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Recordati has operations throughout the whole of Europe, including Russia, Turkey, North Africa, the United States of America, Canada, Mexico, some South American countries, Japan and Australia. An efficient field force of medical representatives promotes a wide range of innovative pharmaceuticals, both proprietary and under license, in a number of therapeutic areas including a specialized business dedicated to treatments for rare diseases. Recordati is a partner of choice for new product licenses for its territories. Recordati is committed to the research and development of new specialties with a focus on treatments for rare diseases. Consolidated revenue for 2018 was 1,352.2 million, operating income was 442.2 million and net income was 312.4 million. For further information: Recordati website: www.recordati.com Investor Relations Media Relations Marianne Tatschke Studio Noris Morano (39)0248787393 (39)0276004736, (39)0276004745 e-mail: investorelations@recordati.it e-mail: norismorano@studionorismorano.com Statements contained in this release, other than historical facts, are "forward-looking statements" (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). These statements are based on currently available information, on current best estimates, and on assumptions believed to be reasonable. This information, these estimates and assumptions may prove to be incomplete or erroneous, and involve numerous risks and uncertainties, beyond the Companys control. Hence, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All mentions and descriptions of Recordati products are intended solely as information on the general nature of the companys activities and are not intended to indicate the advisability of administering any product in any particular instance. RECORDATI GROUP Summary of consolidated results prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) (thousands of ) INCOME STATEMENT First quarter 2019 First quarter 2018 Change % REVENUE 382,990 366,500 4.5 Cost of sales (116,466) (109,288) 6.6 GROSS PROFIT 266,524 257,212 3.6 Selling expenses (94,563) (91,687) 3.1 Research and development expenses (29,152) (27,664) 5.4 General & administrative expenses (17,254) (16,372) 5.4 Other income (expenses), net 455 (958) n.s. OPERATING INCOME 126,010 120,531 4.5 Financial income (expenses), net (3,991) (4,856) (17.8) PRE-TAX INCOME 122,019 115,675 5.5 Provision for income taxes (29,907) (29,083) 2.8 NET INCOME 92,112 86,592 6.4 Attributable to: Equity holders of the parent 92,100 86,580 6.4 Non-controlling interests 12 12 0.0 EARNINGS PER SHARE First quarter 2019 First quarter 2018 Change % Basic 0.451 0.417 8.2 Diluted 0.440 0.414 6.3 Earnings per share (EPS) are based on average shares outstanding during each year, 204,019,974 in 2019 and 207,417,146 in 2018, net of average treasury stock which amounted to 5,105,182 shares in 2019 and to 1,708,010 shares in 2018. Diluted earnings per share is calculated taking into account stock options granted to employees. COMPOSITION OF REVENUE First quarter 2019 First quarter 2018 Change % Total revenue 382,990 366,500 4.5 Italy 82,223 78,926 4.2 International 300,767 287,574 4.6 RECORDATI GROUP Summary of consolidated results prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) - (thousands of ) ASSETS 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 Property, plant and equipment 125,946 103,582 Intangible assets 688,866 672,462 Goodwill 579,241 579,557 Equity investments 21,491 20,773 Non-current receivables 5,991 5,860 Deferred tax assets 79,404 81,267 TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 1,500,939 1,463,501 Inventories 202,987 206,084 Trade receivables 286,743 245,742 Other receivables 29,141 38,462 Other current assets 9,394 5,193 Fair value of hedging derivatives (cash flow hedge) 7,965 6,414 Short-term financial investments, cash and cash equivalents 184,677 198,036 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 720,907 699,931 TOTAL ASSETS 2,221,846 2,163,432 EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 31.03.2019 31.12.2018 Share capital 26,141 26,141 Capital in excess of par value 83,719 83,719 Treasury stock (134,151) (145,608) Hedging reserve (8,749) (8,399) Translation reserve (149,322) (154,146) Other reserves 45,006 43,081 Retained earnings 1,204,126 897,990 Net income for the period 92,100 312,376 Interim dividend (91.761) (91,761) GROUP SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY 1,067,109 963,393 Minority interest 205 193 SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY 1,067,314 963,586 Loans due after one year 646,679 640,647 Employees termination pay 19,433 19,547 Deferred tax liabilities 45,800 45,653 Other non-current liabilities 3,257 3,257 TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 715,169 709,104 Trade payables 139,234 165,020 Other payables 88,355 85,534 Tax liabilities 61,815 42,149 Other current liabilities 17,995 19,359 Provisions 20,949 21,446 Fair value of hedging derivatives (cash flow hedge) 9,336 9,746 Loans due within one year 77,902 130,583 Bank overdrafts 23,777 16,905 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 439,363 490,742 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 2,221,846 2,163,432 DECLARATION BY THE MANAGER RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARING THE COMPANYS FINANCIAL REPORTS The manager responsible for preparing the companys financial reports Fritz Squindo declares, pursuant to paragraph 2 of Article 154-bis of the Consolidated Law on Finance, that the accounting information contained in this press release corresponds to the documental results, books and accounting records. Attachment Delta said this week it has a new benefit for SkyMiles elite-level members who have to curtail their frequent travel when something happens in their lives. It's called "Reclaim My Status," and it provides a path for them to bounce back to Medallion levels after their travel activity picks up again. The qualifying circumstances for reclaiming status can vary from one person to another, and "each situation will be evaluated on a one-on-one basis," Delta said, but the examples it cited include having or adopting a baby, recovery from a major illness, suffering an injury, changing jobs or careers, taking care of a family member, or getting a degree. SkyMiles elite-level members who have gone through one of these events and are ready to pick up the pace of their travel again can submit a request to get back to their previous Medallion level at delta.com/reclaimmystatus. They can expect a reply in one or two weeks, Delta said, and if they are approved, they'll get three months of free Medallion status. During that three-month period, they'll have to meet minimum travel and spending thresholds for their Medallion tier in order to keep that status. If they do, that status will be extended for a year or more, depending on when they file to reclaim it. The program applies for Silver, Gold, Platinum or Diamond status. For instance, Delta said a member who signs up for Reclaim My Status before December 31 of this year and meets the requirements will have that status extended through January 31, 2021. Those who apply during calendar 2020 can have status extended through January 31, 2022. Don't miss a shred of important travel news! Sign up for our FREE bi-weekly email alerts The option is open to anyone who had Medallion status during the previous year but lost it or dropped down to a lower tier. Participants must have documentation to verify the life event that forced a reduction in their travel. "All life events will be considered," Delta said. You can see all the details here, including a detailed FAQ section. Delta is not alone in giving frequent flyers a break when it comes to keeping elite status. Two years ago, Alaska Airlines' Mileage Plan created an "Elite Leave" option that lets members keep elite status for an additional year during a pregnancy or parental leave. Some other airlines have similar formal policies, mostly for new parents, while others that may not have a formal policy say they are willing to extend elite status when they find the circumstances to be appropriate. Hawaiian, British Airways and other airlines also offer similar plans-- so always ask about this if it's not immediately evident. Read all recent TravelSkills posts here Get twice-per-week updates from TravelSkills via email! Sign up here Chris McGinnis is the founder of TravelSkills.com. The author is solely responsible for the content above, and it is used here by permission. You can reach Chris at chris@travelskills.com or on Twitter @cjmcginnis. ISLAMABAD A Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row after being found guilty of blasphemy a conviction that was later overturned has arrived in Canada, her lawyer said Wednesday. The woman, Asia Bibi, was convicted and sentenced to death in 2010 after being accused, based on little evidence, of speaking against the Prophet Muhammad during a heated argument with Muslim women. She insisted she had not done so and that she was the victim of false accusations prompted by bigotry. JOHANNESBURG Millions of South Africans cast ballots Wednesday, voting for the first time since President Cyril Ramaphosa assumed power early last year with promises to renew both his corruption-ridden party and the beleaguered nation. A quarter-century after the end of apartheid captured imaginations worldwide, Ramaphosa and his party, the African National Congress, faced an electorate increasingly disillusioned with the state of South Africas democracy. The vote is partly a referendum on Ramaphosa, whose personal popularity has consistently polled higher than his partys. Many of the ANCs traditional supporters approve of him, polls show. But they question whether he can outflank powerful party rivals and root out the endemic corruption that has come to define the ANC, Nelson Mandelas once celebrated liberation movement. I got trust in Cyril Ramaphosa. Hes done a lot already against corruption, Reckson Chauke, 57, a steelworker, said after he voted for the ANC in Alexandra, a black township in Johannesburg. About 50 miles to the south in Sharpeville, the site of a 1960 massacre that was a turning point in the fight against apartheid, Johanna Sothoane, 72, said she had cast a ballot against the ANC for the first since she began voting in 1994. People are getting tired of the ANC. The corruption which is there, I dont know. Its terrible, Sothoane said as she left the polling station. Ramaphosa? He didnt convince me. She would not say which party she had supported. Ramaphosa made the battle against corruption a pillar of his campaign. At his partys last rally before election day, he addressed widespread criticism that no party official has been held accountable for corruption since he forced Jacob Zuma, his scandal-tainted predecessor, out of office more than a year ago. We are going to fight against corruption despite stern opposition from those who benefited, Ramaphosa said in an unmistakable reference to members of his party. But even the last days of the campaign offered constant reminders of the challenges he faces. A top ANC leader accused the government of spying on him. And a long-running government inquiry on public corruption turned to the issue of rampant looting of the state-owned transport company. Norimitsu Onishi is a New York Times writer. TEHRAN Iran threatened Wednesday to enrich its uranium stockpile closer to weapons-grade levels in 60 days if world powers fail to negotiate new terms for its 2015 nuclear deal, raising regional tensions as a U.S. aircraft carrier and bombers headed to the Middle East to confront Tehran. A televised address by President Hassan Rouhani, who once pledged that the landmark deal would draw Iran closer to the West, saw the cleric instead pressure Europe to shield Tehran from the sanctions imposed when President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the agreement exactly a year earlier. Rouhanis threats put the world on notice that it cannot continue to rely on Iran complying with terms of the unraveling deal in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, a U.S. campaign of sanctions hammering Irans anemic economy and blocking its sale of oil on the global market is only making life worse, putting further pressure on both its Shiite theocracy and its 80 million people. Later Wednesday, Trump issued an executive order announcing new sanctions targeting Irans steel, aluminum, copper and iron sectors, which provide foreign currency earnings for Tehran. Rouhani earlier compared the situation to a medical emergency for the Islamic Republic, only 40 years after its founding. We felt that the nuclear deal needs a surgery, and the painkiller pills of the last year have been ineffective, Rouhani said. This surgery is for saving the deal, not destroying it. Iran on Wednesday stopped its sale of excess uranium and heavy water as a first step, Rouhani said, something required under the deal. The U.S. last week ended deals allowing Iran to exchange its enriched uranium for unrefined yellowcake uranium with Russia, and to sell its heavy water, which is used as a coolant in nuclear reactors, to Oman. In 60 days, if no new deal is in place, Iran will increase its enrichment of uranium beyond the accord-permitted 3.67%, which can fuel a commercial nuclear power plant. Rouhani did not say how far Iran would be willing to enrich, although the head of its nuclear program again reiterated Iran could reach 20% enrichment within four days. Once a country enriches uranium to around 20%, scientists say the time needed to reach the 90% threshold for weapons-grade uranium is halved. Iran long has maintained its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, Iranian state televisions English-language service Press TV, citing sources close to presidency, said the country would withdraw from the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty if Europeans sought to sanction Iran at the U.N. Security Council. Rouhani also said that if the 60 days pass without action, Iran will halt a Chinese-led effort to redesign its Arak heavy water nuclear reactor. Such reactors produce plutonium that can be used in nuclear weapons. Iran notified Britain, Russia, China, the European Union, France and Germany of its decision earlier in the day. All were signatories to the nuclear deal and continue to support it. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif met Wednesday in Moscow with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and offered a letter as well. Amir Vahdat and Jon Gambrell are Associated Press writers. BEIRUT Many of them were barely school age when their parents took them to the Islamic State groups so-called caliphate in Iraq and Syria. Thousands of others were born there. The children of the groups followers are the most vulnerable of the Islamic States human leftovers the remainders of the more than 40,000 foreign fighters and their families who came from 80 countries to help build the caliphate. Many are now detained in camps and prisons across eastern Syria, Iraq and Libya. What have these kids done? said Fabrizio Carboni, a Red Cross official, after witnessing the misery surrounding him on a recent visit to Al Hol camp in Syria. Nothing. Yet even when it comes to the children, the foreign governments whose citizens are marooned in the camps and prisons have struggled with what to do with them. The Islamic State group, researchers say, employed children as scouts, spies, cooks and bomb-planters, and sometimes as fighters and suicide bombers. Propaganda videos showed young children beheading and shooting prisoners. Some have had years of Islamic State indoctrination and, in the case of older boys, military training. Theyre victims of the situation because they went against their will, said Peter Neumann, director of the International Center for the Study of Radicalization at Kings College London, but that doesnt mean that theyre not, in some cases at least, a risk. If figuring out what to do with the children is that complicated, deciding what to do with the women and men is even more difficult. There are at least 13,000 foreign Islamic State followers being held in Syria, including 12,000 women and children. That number does not include the estimated 31,000 Iraqi women and children detained there. Another 1,400 are detained in Iraq. But only a handful of countries including Russia, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, Indonesia and France have intervened to bring back some of their citizens. The debate is more pressing than ever. In overflowing camps in eastern Syria, the wives and children of Islamic State fighters who fled the last shreds of Islamic State territory are dying of exposure, malnutrition and sickness. Children are too spent to speak. Women who have renounced the group live in dread of attacks from those who have not. The local militias running the camps say they cannot detain other countries citizens forever. Vivian Yee is a New York Times writer. ISLAMABAD A bombing outside one of Pakistans most revered Sufi shrines killed at least 10 people, including five police officers, and wounded at least 20 other people, officials said, raising new concerns about militant violence targeting a moderate strand of Islam. The bombing took place Wednesday morning in Lahore, the provincial capital of Punjab, near the shrine of an 11th century Sufi saint, Abul Hasan Ali Bin Usman, more popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajveri. Police officials said it destroyed a van carrying police commandos who were providing security at the shrine. Investigators were trying to determine who was behind the attack, which they said was a suicide bombing. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. There were no specific threat alerts to the shrine, but it is always considered to be a high-security zone, said Ashfaq Ahmad Khan, deputy inspector general for operations of the Lahore police. The bombing broke a brief lull in militant violence in the country. It took place on the second day of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting. Militants often carry out attacks during the month in the belief that those who die in battle during Ramadan will get more blessings from God in the afterlife. The shrine, popularly known as Data Darbar, is one of the major monuments and cultural landmarks of Lahore and attracts hundreds of devotees daily. The shrine complex remains busy throughout the day and late evenings as visitors throng it for prayers and alms. Adherents of Sufi Islam believe in mysticism and nonviolence, and Sufi saints are credited with spreading Islam throughout South Asia. But the Taliban and other Muslim militant groups spurn Sufi shrines and have often attacked Sufi mosques and shrines, accusing devotees of being heretics or apostates. Punjabs chief minister, Usman Buzdar called an emergency meeting to review security measures in the wake of the attack, officials said. The province has been put on high alert. Video broadcast by local media showed a person who appeared to be a teenager walking toward the police van. Seconds later, there was a large explosion. An initial police investigation found that two unidentified men accompanied the bomber, walking with him toward the shrine from a nearby busy street. Then they shook hands with the bomber and disappeared into the neighborhood. The explosion shook nearby buildings and left a trail of destruction. Salman Masood is a New York Times writer. CARACAS, Venezuela The U.S. has lifted sanctions on a top Venezuelan general who broke ranks with President Nicolas Maduro, trying to help the opposition regain momentum in the face of a government crackdown following last weeks failed uprising. Vice President Mike Pence said in a speech Tuesday that the immediate lifting of financial sanctions for Gen. Manuel Figuera, who was Venezuelas spy chief, is intended to encourage others in the military to abandon their support for Maduro. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. This includes cookies from third party social media websites and ad networks. Such third party cookies may track your use on Sharedots sites for better rendering. Our partners use cookies to ensure we show you advertising that is relevant to you. If you continue without changing your settings, we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on Sharedots website. However, you can change your cookie settings at any time. Learn more Dublin, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market by Product, Type (Custom, Pre design), Application (PCR, DNA, RNAi, Research, Therapeutic), End User - Global Forecast to 2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global oligonucleotide synthesis market is projected to reach USD 8.2 billion by 2024 from USD 4.3 billion in 2019, at a CAGR of 13.7% during the forecast period. This market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing research activities in the pharma and biotech sectors and the rising demand for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. The increasing applications of oligos in nucleic acid array-based technologies, library preparation, NGS, genomics, nucleic acid-based detection, cell cultures, diagnostics, therapeutics, human identity testing, cloning, genetic engineering, and synthetic biology are also driving the growth of this market. Hospitals accounted for the largest share of the oligonucleotide synthesis market, by end user, in 2018 Based on end user, the oligonucleotide synthesis market is segmented into academic research institutes, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, diagnostic laboratories, and hospitals. Hospitals held the largest share of the market in 2018 due to the significant number of inpatient and outpatient visits in hospitals and the requirement of oligonucleotide drugs to cater to the demand of the patient pool suffering from diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, and hepatic veno-occlusive disease. Synthesized oligos dominated the oligonucleotide synthesis market, by product, in 2018 Based on product, the market is segmented into synthesized oligos, reagents, and equipment. The synthesized oligos segment held the largest share of the market in 2018 and is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Growth in this segment is attributed to the increasing applications of synthesized oligos in therapeutics, research, and diagnostics. North America to dominate the market during the forecast period Geographically, the oligonucleotide synthesis market is segmented into North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. In 2018, North America was the largest regional market for oligonucleotide synthesis. The North American market is also estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to the growing availability of synthesized oligos, along with an increase in R&D funding and activities in the North American region. Key Topics Covered 1 Introduction 2 Research Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Premium Insights 4.1 Attractive Opportunities in the Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market 4.2 Synthesized Oligos Market, By Product 4.3 Synthesized Oligos Market, By Type 4.4 Asia Pacific: Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By Research Application and Country (2019) 4.5 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By Therapeutic Application 4.6 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By End User 4.7 Geographic Snapshot: Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market 5 Market Overview 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Market Dynamics 5.2.1 Market Drivers 5.2.1.1 Increasing Use of Synthesized Oligos in Molecular Diagnostics and Clinical Applications 5.2.1.2 Increasing Government Investments and R&D Expenditure in Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies 5.2.1.3 Rise in Venture Capital Investments 5.2.2 Market Restraints 5.2.2.1 Price Erosion of Synthesized Oligos 5.2.2.2 Lack of A Unified Set of Regulations for Therapeutic Oligos 5.2.3 Market Opportunities 5.2.3.1 Emerging Asian Markets 5.2.4 Market Challenges 5.2.4.1 Large-Scale Synthesis of Oligos 5.2.4.2 Delivery of Oligonucleotide Drugs to Specific Targets 6 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By Product 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Synthesized Oligos 6.2.1 Synthesized Oligos Market, By Product 6.2.1.1 Oligonucleotide-Based Drugs 6.2.1.1.1 Oligonucleotide-Based Drugs Dominate the Synthesized Oligos Market, By Product 6.2.1.2 Primers 6.2.1.2.1 Growing Research Activity Drives the Market for Primers 6.2.1.3 Probes 6.2.1.3.1 Probes are Designed to Detect Various Infectious Agents 6.2.1.4 Intermediate-Scale Synthesized Oligos 6.2.1.4.1 The Increasing Demand for Synthesized Oligos and Innovations in Manufacturing Techniques Drives the Market. 6.2.1.5 Large-Scale Synthesized Oligos 6.2.1.5.1 Increasing Demand for Large Quantities of Modified and Unmodified Oligos to Drive the Market 6.2.1.6 Linkers & Adaptors 6.2.1.6.1 Linkers are Used to Add Restriction Sites in DNA 6.2.2 Synthesized Oligos Market, By Type 6.2.2.1 Predesigned Oligos 6.2.2.1.1 Predesigned Oligos Dominate the Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By Type 6.2.2.2 Custom Oligos 6.2.2.2.1 Increasing Number of Clinical and Pre-Clinical Research to Drive the Market for Custom Oligos 6.3 Reagents 6.4 Equipment 7 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By Application 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Therapeutic Applications 7.2.1 DNA & Antisense Oligonucleotide-Based therapies 7.2.1.1 DNA & Antisense Oligos Form the Largest Segment in the Therapeutic Applications Market 7.2.2 RNAi Oligonucleotide-Based therapies 7.2.2.1 Significant Initiatives By Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies to Drive the Market for RNAi Oligonucleotide-Based therapies 7.2.3 Cpg Oligonucleotide-Based therapies 7.2.3.1 This Market Segment is in the Initial Stage, and Significant Growth Might Be Observed During the Forecast Period 7.3 Diagnostic Applications 7.4 Research Applications 7.4.1 PCR 7.4.1.1 Increasing Use of PCR in Research to Drive Market Growth 7.4.2 QPCR 7.4.2.1 Its Cost-Effectiveness, Concurrent Monitoring of Expression Levels of Multiple Genetic Messages in Real Time, and High Sensitivity Make QPCR A Vital Tool for Quantification of Nucleic Acids 7.4.3 Sequencing 7.4.3.1 Advancements in Sequencing Technologies and Low Cost to Drive the Market for Sequencing Applications 7.4.4 Gene Synthesis 7.4.4.1 Increasing Applications of Gene Synthesis and Low Cost to Drive the Market for This Application Segment 7.4.5 Other Research Applications 8 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By End User 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Hospitals 8.2.1 Hospitals are the Largest End Users of Oligos Due to the Significant Number of Inpatient and Outpatient Visits 8.3 Academic Research Institutes 8.3.1 Academic Researchers Primarily Use Oligos for Genetic Engineering, PCR Activities, and High-Throughput Sequencing - A Major Factor Driving Market Growth 8.4 Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies 8.4.1 Growing Applications of Oligos in Drug Discovery & Therapeutics to Drive the Demand for Oligonucleotide Synthesis Among these End Users 8.5 Diagnostic Laboratories 8.5.1 Diagnostic Laboratories Register High Growth in the Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market Due to the Increasing Significance of Oligos in Molecular Diagnostics 9 Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market, By Region 9.1 Introduction 9.2 North America 9.2.1 US 9.2.1.1 Government Initiatives and Strategic Developments By Market Players to Drive Market Growth in the Country 9.2.2 Canada 9.2.2.1 Growing Initiatives and Funding in Synthetic Biology and Genomics to Drive the Market in the Country 9.3 Europe 9.3.1 Germany 9.3.1.1 Presence of A Large Number of Academic Research Institutes to Support Market Growth 9.3.2 France 9.3.2.1 Government Initiatives to Boost R&D Activities in the Country 9.3.3 UK 9.3.3.1 Growth in the Life Science Industry to Drive the Market for Oligonucleotides Synthesis in the UK 9.3.4 Italy 9.3.4.1 Increasing Research Activities to Drive the Market for Oligonucleotides Synthesis in Italy 9.3.5 Spain 9.3.5.1 Government Initiatives to Drive the Market for Oligonucleotide Synthesis 9.3.6 RoE 9.4 Asia Pacific 9.4.1 China 9.4.1.1 Government Initiatives to Strengthen the Biotechnology Industry in China 9.4.2 Japan 9.4.2.1 Increasing Awareness Through Conferences and Workshops to Drive the Market in the Country 9.4.3 India 9.4.3.1 Government Initiatives to Promote Synthetic Biology to Drive the Market in the Country 9.4.4 RoAPAC 9.5 Latin America 9.5.1 Brazil 9.5.1.1 Development in Genomics to Aid Market Growth in Brazil 9.5.2 Mexico 9.5.2.1 Increasing Awareness About Advancements in Oligonucleotides to Drive the Market 9.5.3 RoLATAM 9.6 Middle East & Africa 10 Competitive Landscape 10.1 Overview 10.2 Market Share Analysis 10.3 Competitive Scenario 10.3.1 Partnerships, Agreements, Contracts, and Collaborations 10.3.2 Product Launches, Upgrades, and Approvals 10.3.3 Expansions 10.3.4 Acquisitions 10.4 Competitive Leadership Mapping (2017) 10.4.1 Vanguards 10.4.2 Innovators 10.4.3 Dynamic Players 10.4.4 Emerging Players 10.5 Competitive Leadership Mapping for Start-Ups (2018) 10.5.1 Progressive Companies 10.5.2 Starting Blocks 10.5.3 Responsive Companies 10.5.4 Dynamic Companies 10.6 MnM Dive-Vendor Comparison Matrix for Start-Ups: Oligonucleotide Synthesis Market 11 Company Profiles 11.1 Agilent Technologies 11.2 ADTBio 11.3 Bioautomation (Acquired by LGC) 11.4 Bio-Synthesis Inc. 11.5 Eurofins Genomics 11.6 Eurogentec 11.7 GE Healthcare 11.8 Genscript 11.9 Genedesign (Part of Ajinomoto 11.10 Integrated DNA Technologies (Acquired by Danaher Corporation) 11.11 LGC Biosearch Technologies 11.12 Merck KGaA 11.13 Nitto Denko Avecia 11.14 Thermo Fisher Scientific 11.15 TriLink Biotechnologies (Part of Maravai Lifesciences) For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/na0wu9 Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. Page Content Reference checking is a necessary evil of the hiring process, but it's fraught with challenges. The references that candidates provide can be overly biased toward the applicant. But searching beyond those references can lead to potential risk for the employer. And company policies often limit to salary and dates of service the information HR representatives, managers and others can share about a former employee. There are ways, however, that reference checkers can creatively and compliantly gather meaningful information to help employers make informed hiring decisions. [SHRM members-only platform: SHRM Connect] 'Backdoor' References "Backdoor" references are references the candidate did not directly provide. While reference checkers are not prohibited from contacting people not specifically named as references by the candidate, there are a couple of important points employers must keep in mind: Candidates should have given permission, generally, for reference checking to be conducted. Reference checkers should not reach out to anyone the candidate has expressly asked not be contacted. Reference checkers should not contact references from a candidate's current employer without express permission. HR can and should seek additional recommendations as reference checks are conducted. For instance, when speaking with a candidate's former manager, you might ask, "Is there anyone else you would recommend I speak with?" Or you may have contacts at a candidate's former employer; unless the candidate has expressly prohibited it, you're free to reach out to get perspectives from these contacts. Regardless of how well you know a potential reference or how deep you dig, many references are hesitant to be too forthcoming about a candidate who may not have a stellar job history. This is where some creative communication techniques may come into play. Make the Candidate Part of the Process Doren Barak, president and lead consultant with FocusHR, a human resources consulting firm in Toronto, uses a two-step process to ferret out critical information about a candidate's strengths and potential weaknesses, starting with the candidate interview. "With the reference process in mind, I ask questions that open the candidate up to share potential red flags that I then probe in reference checks," Barak said. For example, she might ask a candidate, "Imagine I call your manager and ask for feedback on you. I'd ask for the good, the bad and the ugly. What would I hear from your manager?" Barak will then keep prodding until she's gathered relevant information. If the candidate isn't immediately forthcoming, she might circle back to the question, perhaps reframing to focus on a previous manager. This candidate input is valuable to the reference-checking process, she said. "You now have concrete information to probe on." For instance, she might say to a reference, "In the interview, the candidate shared that X and Y were not strengths or were concerns or trouble areas. Could you elaborate on that?" "You'd be surprised by how openly references discuss something negative if they don't have to reveal it themselves," she said. "It makes it easy for them." Best Practices Camden Rendon, talent acquisition manager with The 20, an IT services firm in Plano, Texas, said she will often ask references for an example of how a candidate went above and beyond the requirements of the job. "If they can easily come up with something, I know that this candidate probably does it pretty frequently. If they can't come up with anything, I wonder how strong [the candidate's] work ethic really is," she said. Reference checkers "need to be able to extract the information that isn't being said and read between the lines," said Mike Sheety, director of ThatShirt, a customized-apparel company in Ontario, Canada. "You need to listen to what is and isn't being said. 'I can't recall' and minimal responses can be a bad sign, as it either means the reference doesn't have anything good to say or they don't remember, and the potential hire just flows with the crowd." Sheety advised reference checkers not to accept general responses, such as, "She was a great employee." That doesn't provide enough specific information. Ask questions to elaborate. Sheety suggested asking, "Why was she so great?" or "How do you track your employees' success?" In addition to carefully evaluating responses, reference checkers should be alert to what is not being said. "One of the first things I notice is how quickly and willing a reference is to talk to me," Rendon said. "If I have to leave a message, I get wary if I don't hear back. If someone offers to be a reference for someone, they should be ready and willing to chat about their experience working with that person." Finally, Sheety suggested, "continue reference checking until all the information you have gathered is saying the same thing." Once you reach that level of consistency, you can be confident that you've got an accurate sense of a candidate's traits. Lin Grensing-Pophal is a freelance writer in Chippewa Falls, Wis. Pune, India, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Market Research Future (MRFR)s analysis reveals that the global automotive pedestrian protection system market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 11.80% during the forecast period 2016 to 2023. The global market is expected to grow from USD 994.16 Mn in 2017 to USD 2,143.3 Mn by the close of 2023. An upswing is being observed in the vehicular traffic all over the world which is expected to boost the growth pattern of the market in the years to come. Road accidents are rising at an alarming rate which is likely to motivate the governments to take necessary actions for ensuring the safety of passengers as well as pedestrians. Every year more than a million people succumb to fatal injuries in road accidents. This, in turn, has intensified the adoption of pedestrian protection system in the automobiles and is anticipated to augment the market over the assessment period. Case to the point is, the Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE) has partnered with a U.K. based charity, Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP), for the launch of 'Stop The Crash' campaign in India which was supported by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Additionally, it was also stated in the event that all new cars are mandated to have pedestrian safety feature. Get Free Sample Copy @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/5949 The increasing demand for automobiles is poised to attract inflow of investments in the upcoming years. Key players are also focusing on bringing innovative products such as redesigned auto components for meeting the highest standards of safety and minimizing the impact on pedestrians. Key Players: The noted players of the global automotive pedestrian protection system market are Robert Bosch GmbH, Continental AG, Aptiv PLC, Autoliv Inc, Magna International Inc, DENSO, ZF, WABCO Holdings, Inc, Mobileye, Valeo, AB Volvo, Nissan Motor Company Ltd, and Subaru Corporation. Market Segmentation: This MRFR report offers a detailed segmental analysis of the global automotive Pedestrian Protection System Market based on technology, component type, type, and vehicle type. By technology, the market has been segmented into active pedestrian protection system and passive pedestrian protection system. Among these, the passive pedestrian protection system segment is poised to dictate the growth pattern of the market and scale a relatively higher CAGR over the assessment period. Based on component type, the market has been segmented into sensor, actuator, control unit, cameras, and others. The sensor segment is anticipated to account for the maximum share of the market owing to its extensive use in pedestrian detection assistance, alerting driver, etc. The automotive pedestrian protection system market, by type, has been segmented into automatic braking & collision avoidance, brake assist, external airbags, and pop-up bonnets. Among these, the automatic braking and collision avoidance segment is leading the market growth and is anticipated to retain its forefront position over the next couple of years. It is also poised to exhibit a higher growth pace across the review period. By vehicle type, the market has been segmented into internal combustion engines (ICE) vehicles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles. The internal combustion engines (ICE) vehicles segment presently holds the maximum share of the market. It is prognosticated to maintain its prominence through the forecast period. Asia Pacific set to exhibit a steep rise in the growth curve The geographical assessment of the global automotive pedestrian protection system market encompasses four regions - North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Rest of the World (RoW). North America holds the largest share of the global market and is poised to maintain its dominance in the forthcoming years. The growth trajectory of the regional market is supported by the availability of high per-capita income in conjunction with stringent laws concerning pedestrian safety. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is forecasted to thrive rapidly reflecting a CAGR of 12.28% over the projection period. Increasing road traffic is encouraging the growth of automotive pedestrian protection system market in the region. Browse Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/automotive-pedestrian-protection-system-market-5949 Latest Industry News: Chinese automaker Geelys pure electric brand, Geometry, has unveiled its first model. The new model introduced is equipped with a comprehensive configuration of active and passive safety features including AEB-P Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection. Maruti Suzuki India Limited, an automobile manufacturer, has introduced updated models of Celerio and Celerio X with advanced safety features for meeting Bharat New Vehicle Safety Assessment Program (BNVSAP). The Celerio has got features like pedestrian protection system, ventilated front disc, etc. Related Reports Vehicle Security Market Research Report: Information by Technology (Ultrasonic, Radio Frequency Identification), by Component (UIP, BBS, Central Locking System, Automatic Collision Detection System, ADRS, Remote Keyless Entry System), by Vehicle Type (Passenger Vehicle, Commercial Vehicle) and Region - Global Forecast till 20172023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/vehicle-security-market-4077 Vehicle Anti-Theft Market, by product (Immobilizer, Steering lock, Central locking, alarm), by technology (GPS, GSM, RTLS, Face detection system, automotive biometric technology) by vehicle type (Passenger car, Commercial vehicle) - Forecast 2016-2022. https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/vehicle-anti-theft-market-2036 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. NEW YORK -- Miguel Andujar will get another game at third base at some point this week, but for the time being, expect to see a lot of Gio Urshela at the hot corner. Urshela will play there for the second straight game when the Yankees host the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium, with Andujar serving as DH again. Coming off another stellar night in the field, Urshela has given the Yankees plenty of reason to keep him there. You kind of want both guys in the lineup right now, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. This is the alignment that makes the most sense at this point. It will probably be something that evolves a little bit, but its a way right now with how were constructed, with some of the injuries we have, to get both those guys in there. Andujars two-error performance in his return to the lineup on Saturday didnt help his cause to take over for Urshela full time at third base, and the Yankees can use him at designated hitter more often than not for the time being, with outfielders Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Hicks still out with injuries. Boone was asked about how Urshelas defense stacks up against some of the other Gold Glove caliber play around the league. The manager wasnt ready to hand him the award, but he compared him to some of the leagues elite defenders. Buy Yankees tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, PrimeSport, Ticketmaster "Hes every bit performed at an extremely high level," Boone said. Gold Glove caliber? Certainly. Whether hes the Gold Glove (third baseman), all that. Were sitting here in early May. Bottom line, hes a premium defender at the position. No innings limit discussed for German yet Boone and Yankees management havent had any talks on a potential innings cap for started Domingo German during the 2019 season. No, we havent had those conversations, Boone said. German is 6-1 with a 2.35 ERA in seven games and six starts, pitching 38.1 innings in those appearances. German is slated for his next start on Friday when the Yankees visit the Tampa Bay Rays for the start of a three-game weekend series. Jonathan Loaisiga will be recalled to start on Wednesday against the Mariners, serving as the teams fifth starter with James Paxton on the IL. The team has not announced a corresponding roster move. Chris Ryan may be reached at cryan@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @ChrisRyan_NJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account. We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription. A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much! ST. HELIER, Jersey, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Caledonia Mining Corporation Plc (the "Company") (NYSE American: CMCL; AIM: CMCL; TSX: CAL) announces the results of its annual general meeting of shareholders (the AGM) held at St Helier, Jersey today. The total number of voting shares represented by shareholders present in person or by proxy at the AGM was 3,350,167 representing 31.16% of the Companys outstanding voting shares. The table below shows the proxy votes received on resolutions 1(a) to 1(f), which were duly passed by a show of hands, to reappoint the six nominees proposed by management for election as directors: Nominee For Percent Against Percent Abstained Leigh Wilson 3,232,365 96.83% 105,888 3.17% 11,914 Steve Curtis 3,235,121 96.91% 103,292 3.09% 11,754 Mark Learmonth 3,234,121 96.88% 104,292 3.12% 11,754 John Kelly 3,231,661 96.84% 105,392 3.16% 13,114 Johan Holtzhausen 3,229,921 96.79% 107,132 3.21% 13,114 John McGloin 3,230,019 96.77% 107,694 3.23% 12,454 Further resolutions 2 and 3 were also passed at the AGM so that: BDO South Africa Inc (formerly Grant Thornton Johannesburg Partnership) was reappointed as the auditor of the Company for the ensuing year and the directors were authorised to fix its remuneration; and Messrs. Holtzhausen, Kelly and McGloin were reappointed as members of the Audit Committee. The full text of each resolution, together with explanatory notes, are set out in the notice of AGM and management information circular dated 1 April 2019 which are available on the Company's website at www.caledoniamining.com. For further information please contact: A "game-changing" court decision blocking a coal mine in part because of its climate change impacts will stand after the project proponent dropped plans to appeal against the verdict. Gloucester Resources had until Wednesday to oppose the rejection by the NSW Land and Environment Court in February of its proposed Rocky Hill coal mine near the town of Gloucester on the state's Mid North Coast. A win is a win - finally: Gloucester residents opposed to the nearby Rocky Hill coal project proposal may finally get some peace. Credit:Janie Barrett In a short statement, the company said it had "decided not to pursue its appeal options" through the Court of Appeal. "This means the Rocky Hill Coal Mine will not proceed," it said, adding the company would carry out "further assessment of its current exploration licences in the area". And that's it from me tonight. Our Chief Political Correspondent David Crowe will have a comprehensive wrap of the leaders debate for you shortly so keep an eye out on the website for that. Thank you so much for joining me on the blog tonight and I look forward to spending Saturday week with you on election night. And don't forget to try our smartvote tool. Liberal heavyweight John Howard has thrown a line to his vulnerable friend Peter Dutton in his marginal seat of Dickson, north of Brisbane. In a letter sent to voters in the tightly held electorate, the former prime minister has attempted to give Mr Duttons campaign a much-needed boost. Former prime minister John Howard has given much need support to Home Affairs minister Peter Dutton's campaign. Credit:AAP/Jono Searle Peter has been known to me since he first stood as my candidate in Dickson at the 2001 electorate, he wrote. Some politicians fly to Canberra and forget where they come from - Peter is not one of them. "It's a real concern for any business that is a heavy energy user, that obviously includes an alumina refinery, but also fertiliser factories, aluminium smelters, abattoirs and a range of other energy-intensive businesses," he said. "They are all facing steep hikes in energy prices as a result of these policies. Energy Minister Angus Taylor and Canning MP Andrew Hastie at Alcoa's Alumina refinery south of Perth. "When you want to gouge around half the emissions out of the economy in 10 years, of course you're going to have to shut things, there's no other way." Mr Hastie said voters in his region were worried. "We don't want our jobs going offshore," he said. "We already know that Alcoa is sending bauxite direct to China and if the cost of energy continues to rise, we make alumina refining uneconomic in this part of the world, so it will go elsewhere and those jobs will go to places like China and the Philippines and elsewhere." Mr Hastie said he was concerned emissions would go overseas to less regulated jurisdictions. "But the bottom line is that we still use coal and gas to drive energy and the resources sector, that underwrites all our jobs, so a 45 per cent emissions reduction target under Bill Shorten must have consequences for the energy mix," he said. "And they're yet to demonstrate how businesses will remain profitable with a sudden shift to wind. "We've seen the Carnegie wave project fall over, in South Australia the Port Augusta solar farm couldn't get private investment so at this stage coal and gas is still the way forward." Environment just as important, according to state MP State Labor MP Robyn Clarke says Alcoa workers are also thinking about the environment. Credit:Tex Reeks Workers at Alcoa have been waging a pitched battle against the company in enterprise bargaining negotiations that look like dragging on for years and culminated in 2018 with a 52-day strike. Mr Hastie, in a rare move for a Liberal politician, addressed a protest of striking workers last year to lend his support to his cause. He even wrote to the company urging it to settle the matter. But the dispute has created a lingering uncertainty in Canning's local economy, which also relies on workers who fly-in and fly-out of mining and resources jobs in the north-west of the state. State Labor MP Robyn Clarke, who has close ties to Alcoa's workforce, said locals were concerned about the impact of climate change as well as the security of jobs at the alumina refining operations. "One of the many reasons people move to the Peel region is because of the beautiful environment, and the majority of constituents I speak to have concerns of the potential impact that climate change may have on the area," she said. "Economic concerns are often raised with me as well, however the focus on these is generally on diversifying the local economy through increasing tourism and other industries. "In areas such as Dwellingup in particular, efforts are being made to increase tourism to the area, and local residents know that protecting the environment is an important factor in increasing local tourism." Ms Clarke, who won her seat from the Liberals at the 2017 state election, said Alcoa workers did not believe a change in government put their jobs at risk. "Both government and the local community agree that diversifying the local economy will bring a number of benefits to the region and that we need to support new and emerging industries that want to enter the area and create ongoing local employment," she said. "Although the region is fortunate to have a large employer like Alcoa providing jobs for the area, we cannot assume that it will always be in a position to provide the majority of the regions employment, particularly with Murrays ageing population and projected future population growth." Company still wants to compete in a global market A spokeswoman for Alcoa said it was vital climate change policy didn't damage the competitiveness of Australian businesses and industries that compete in global markets. She said both sides of politics had historically acknowledged the challenges faced by energy intensive industries. "Our refining operations in Western Australia use natural gas which produces significantly less emissions than coal," she said. "In regards to Labor's 45 per cent emissions reduction policy, more crucial details are required in order to understand how it may impact our business. Alcoa has not seen data to substantiate the gas price increase that has been speculated." WA Premier backs Shorten on emissions target On Monday Premier Mark McGowan said he was backing Mr Shorten's ambitious 45 per cent reduction in carbon emissions. "I'm totally supportive of what Bill is doing," he said. "And I think most Australians want to see this country take some action, most West Australians want to see some action. "We can't leave a world to our children and grandchildren in which we haven't started the process of dealing with this issues." But Mr McGowan was more circumspect about emissions when he overruled an Environmental Protection Agency policy which would have required major projects in Western Australia to produce net zero carbon emissions. "I want action on climate change, I want Western Australia to be part of the solution, but what I don't want is us to do things to our industry that then other states don't have happen and we have a perverse situation whereby cleaner fuel is penalised versus a higher emitting fuel in China or in Japan," he told Gareth Parker on Perth radio station 6PR. "That doesn't make any sense. "That's why the federal government needs to get off its hands and actually do something about a national, consistent policy that applies clearly to everybody." Loading He said reducing emissions to zero in WA would help the climate "to a small degree", but if that meant coal would be burnt instead of natural gas, then "all that would do is increase emissions". South West is still about the fossil fuels Serious changes to WA's energy mix will be required to meet a stricter emissions reduction target under Labor. The Liberal Party is promising to reduce emissions by 28 per cent by 2030 as opposed to Labor's 45 per cent. According to the Australian Energy Market Operator, 46 per cent of the south west's power was generated by burning coal and 43 per cent from gas over the past 12 months. Only 9.7 per cent came from wind generation. But Mr Shorten is also promising 50 percent of the nation's electricity will come from renewable energy sources by 2030 and said the south west will become a "renewable energy zone". The means projects in the the region could access "potential support from Labors $5 billion Energy Security and Modernisation fund". No matter which way these massive numbers are dissected, they will mean revolutionary change for WA's economy would be likely under a Shorten Labor Government. A little slice of paradise, and Australian fashion history, is coming to Sydney with the Powerhouse Museum's next major fashion exhibition: a survey of the work of iconic design duo Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson. Opening in October, "Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson: Step Into Paradise", is a nod to Jenny Kee's 1970s Strand Arcade frock shop, Flamingo Park, which featured a sign reading "Step Into Paradise" on its front door. The pair presented their work together in 'Flamingo Follies' fashion parades before Fashion Week in Australia existed. Fashion designers Jenny Kee and Linda Jackson will be honoured with a retrospective exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney. Credit:Brook Mitchell Kee and Jackson were known for their colourful, joy-filled pieces, drawing inspiration from Australiana: animals, nature, landscapes and Indigenous art. A young woman who recently returned from travel in south-east Asia has been diagnosed with measles and may have exposed others to the highly contagious condition while spending time in Sydney's CBD. The woman spent time at Capitol Square and World Square, and used public transport between Town Hall and Artarmon stations, while she was unknowingly infectious between April 29 and May 6. People who visited World Square and Capitol Square in Sydney's CBD on May 5 and 6 should look out for symptoms. Credit:John Woudstra While those sites do not pose an ongoing risk to visitors, NSW Health's director of communicable diseases Vicky Sheppeard said people who were at those locations at those times should be alert for signs of measles until May 24. "Symptoms to watch out for include fever, sore eyes and a cough followed three or four days later by a red, spotty rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body," Dr Sheppeard said. A body of a man has been found in an underground drain at a work site on Brisbane's bayside. Police were called to a sewage facility on Granada Street at Wynnum after workers discovered the body just after 12.30pm on Wednesday. "Detectives and scenes of crime officers are at the facility," a police spokeswoman said. "They are trying to retrieve the body so once they do that, they will be able to find the identification of the person and have an idea of what has happened." HOUSTON, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sanchez Energy Corporation (OTC Pink: SNEC) today reported financial and operating results for first-quarter 2019. A summary of the report follows: Production of 76,267 barrels of oil equivalent per day (Boe/d), or 6.9 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMBoe), a decrease of 4.6 percent compared to fourth-quarter 2018; Brought 18 gross (four net) wells online at Comanche during first-quarter 2019 with activity concentrated in Areas 3 and 5; Net loss of $67.3 million, compared to net income of $119.4 million in fourth-quarter 2018 and a net loss of $4.8 million in first-quarter 2018; and Adjusted EBITDAX (a non-GAAP financial measure) of $93.0 million, compared to $111.3 million in fourth-quarter 2018 and $117.9 million in first-quarter 2018. MANAGEMENT COMMENTS Consistent with the substantially reduced capital spending plan we announced in February 2019, our first-quarter 2019 operations were aimed at meeting the company's drilling and development commitments at Catarina and Comanche for the 12-month periods that extend into this year, said Tony Sanchez, III, president and chief executive officer of Sanchez Energy. Having already fulfilled the 50-well annual commitment at Catarina for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2019 prior to first-quarter 2019, our focus during the quarter was at Comanche, where we currently have two rigs running and consistently see drilling durations of seven days or less, spud to total depth, per well. During the quarter, the company tested wider well spacing at Comanche with results consistently better than wells drilled with tighter spacing. The company has also revised its drawdown strategy on new wells at Comanche, which has shown encouraging results and shallower declines compared to wells drilled under the previous strategy. As part of our continuing focus on lower risk projects and optimization opportunities, the company completed more than 150 workovers during the quarter, which were primarily related to implementing artificial lift strategies at Comanche. Due in large part to the success of these projects, production came in at 76,267 Boe/d during first-quarter 2019. While production was 4.6 percent lower compared to fourth-quarter 2018, we consider the quarter-over-quarter decrease relatively modest given the companys significant reduction in capital spending from 2018 levels. OPERATIONS UPDATE During first-quarter 2019, the company spud eight gross (two net) wells, completed 18 gross (four net) wells and brought 18 gross (four net) wells online. All of the wells brought online during the quarter were at Comanche, where activity was concentrated in Areas 3 and 5. At the companys non-operated Palmetto asset, the operator spud the final well of a six-well project in the southern portion of the asset. The operator is currently completing all wells and anticipates bringing them online early in second-quarter 2019. As of March 31, 2019, the company had 2,396 gross (977 net) producing wells with 26 gross wells in various stages of completion, as detailed in the following table: Area Gross Producing Wells Gross Wells Awaiting/ Undergoing Completion Comanche 1,747 3 Catarina 456 17 Palmetto 76 6 Maverick 67 TMS / Other 50 Total 2,396 26 DRILLING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITMENTS The company has an annual drilling commitment at Catarina, in addition to a 120-day continuous drilling commitment. As of June 30, 2018, the company achieved a 26-well drilling bank at Catarina that can be applied toward its current annual drilling commitment for the period that extends from July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019. The company drilled an additional 36 wells between July 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019 at Catarina, resulting in a total of 62 wells toward the current annual drilling commitment of 50 wells. Accordingly, the company has met its annual drilling commitment at Catarina for the period July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019 and has achieved a bank of 12 wells toward the next annual drilling commitment period, which begins on July 1, 2019. Additionally, the company has maintained compliance with the 120-day continuous drilling commitment on the asset. The company has an annual development commitment at Comanche, in addition to other requirements in leases that must be met in order to maintain its acreage position. As of Aug. 31, 2018, the company achieved a 30-well bank at Comanche that can be applied toward its current annual development commitment for the period that extends from Sept. 1, 2018 to Aug. 31, 2019. The company completed and equipped an additional 45 wells at Comanche between Sept. 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019, resulting in a total of 75 wells toward the current annual development commitment of 60 wells. Accordingly, the company has met its annual development commitment at Comanche for the period Sept. 1, 2018 to Aug. 31, 2019. Furthermore, the company expects to meet all additional lease requirements through execution of its 2019 capital plan. PRODUCTION MIX, REVENUES AND COMMODITY PRICE REALIZATIONS The companys production mix during first-quarter 2019 consisted of 34 percent oil, 34 percent natural gas liquids (NGLs) and 32 percent natural gas. By asset area, Catarina, Comanche and Maverick/Palmetto/TMS/Other represented over 55 percent, over 40 percent and less than five percent, respectively, of the companys total first-quarter 2019 production volumes. First-quarter 2019 revenues were $216.7 million, compared to $268.7 million for fourth-quarter 2018 and $251.2 million for first-quarter 2018. Commodity price realizations, which include the impact of $3.5 million paid during the quarter in connection with the settlement of commodity derivatives, were $53.79 per Bbl of oil, $17.34 per Bbl of NGLs, and $3.18 per thousand cubic feet (Mcf) of natural gas for first-quarter 2019. CAPITAL EXPENDITURES Capital expenditures during first-quarter 2019 totaled $18.1 million, of which 98 percent was allocated to drilling, completion and infrastructure, and two percent was allocated to leasing and business development activities. FINANCIAL RESULTS The company reported a net loss of $67.3 million for first-quarter 2019, which includes $44.9 million in non-cash mark-to-market losses related to commodity derivatives and a $3.9 million non-cash impairment charge. This compares to reported net income of $119.4 million for fourth-quarter 2018 and a reported net loss of $4.8 million for first-quarter 2018. The companys first-quarter 2019 Adjusted EBITDAX was $93.0 million, compared to $111.3 million for fourth-quarter 2018 and $117.9 million for first-quarter 2018. Adjusted EBITDAX is a non-GAAP financial measure that is defined and reconciled in a table included with this press release. HEDGING UPDATE On a consolidated basis, the company has hedged approximately 2,339,000 Bbls of its April through December 2019 oil production; 13,105,000 million British thermal units (MMBtu) of its April through December 2019 natural gas production; 1,055,560 Bbls of its 2020 oil production; and 6,893,150 MMBtu of its 2020 natural gas production. Additional information on Sanchez Energys complete hedge position can be found in the companys documents on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) at www.sec.gov . LIQUIDITY AND CREDIT FACILITIES As of March 31, 2019, the companys liquidity was approximately $358.6 million, which consisted of $200.7 million in cash and cash equivalents and $157.9 million of combined borrowing capacity under two credit facilities: the $25.0 million parent-level credit facility, which had approximately $7.9 million of available borrowing capacity, net of an outstanding letter of credit, and the SN EF UnSub, LP (UnSub) revolving credit facility, which had a borrowing base and commitment amount of $315.0 million and $150.0 million of available borrowing capacity. The company repaid $6.0 million of principal under the UnSub revolving credit facility after March 31, 2019. SHARE COUNT As of March 31, 2019, the company had 99.8 million common shares outstanding. Assuming all Series A Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock and Series B Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock were converted, total outstanding common shares would have been 107.5 million as of March 31, 2019. For the three months ended March 31, 2019, the weighted average number of unrestricted common shares used to calculate the net loss attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted, which is determined in accordance with GAAP, was 91.7 million shares. ABOUT SANCHEZ ENERGY CORPORATION Sanchez Energy Corporation (OTC Pink: SNEC) is an independent exploration and production company focused on the acquisition and development of oil and natural gas resources in the onshore United States, with a current focus on the Eagle Ford Shale in South Texas. For more information about Sanchez Energy Corporation, please visit our website: www.sanchezenergycorp.com . FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains, and our officers and representatives may from time to time make, 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. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that Sanchez Energy expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements, including statements relating to future financial and operating results and returns, our strategy and plans, including future drilling plans and economic drilling zones, our ability to increase reserves and production and generate income or cash flows, service our debt and other obligations and repay or otherwise refinance such obligations when due or at maturity, our ability to keep well costs down, the benefits related to the Comanche transaction and the companys anticipated ability to fund capital expenditures or reduce its leverage. These statements are based on certain assumptions made by the company based on management's experience, perception of historical trends and technical analyses, current conditions, anticipated future developments and other factors believed to be appropriate and reasonable by management. When used in this press release, the words "will," "potential," "believe," "estimate," "intend," "expect," "may," "should," "anticipate," "could," "plan," "predict," "project," budget, forecast, guidance, "profile," "model," "strategy," "future," or their negatives, other similar expressions or the statements that include those words or other words that convey the uncertainty of future events or outcomes, are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Such statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Sanchez Energy, which may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied or expressed by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to the timing and extent of changes in prices of, and demand for, crude oil and condensate, natural gas liquids, natural gas and related commodities; our ability to successfully execute our business and financial strategies; our ability to comply with the financial and other covenants in our debt instruments, to repay our debt, and to address our liquidity needs; the extent to which we are able to engage in successful strategic alternatives to improve our balance sheet and satisfy our obligations under our debt instruments; the extent to which our drilling plans are successful in maintaining and economically developing our acreage, producing and replacing reserves and achieving anticipated production levels; our ability to replace the reserves we produce through drilling and property acquisitions; our ability to successfully integrate our various acquired assets into our operations and realize the benefits of the those acquisitions, to fully identify existing and potential issues or liabilities and to accurately estimate reserves, production and costs with respect to such assets; our ability to access the credit and capital markets to obtain financing on terms we deem acceptable, if at all, and to otherwise satisfy our capital expenditure, debt service and other funding requirements through internally generated cash flows, asset sales and other activities; the extent to which an active market, if any, develops in the trading of our common stock in the over-the-counter markets; our ability to utilize the services, personnel and other assets of Sanchez Oil & Gas Corporation pursuant to an existing services agreement; Sanchez Oil & Gas Corporations ability to retain personnel and other resources to perform its obligations under the existing services agreement; the realized benefits of our partnerships and joint ventures, including our transactions with Sanchez Midstream Partners LP and our partnership with affiliates of The Blackstone Group, L.P.; the accuracy of reserve estimates; our ability to successfully execute our hedging strategy and the resulting realized prices therefrom; our ability to maintain the financial risks where we share with more than one party the cost of drilling, equipping, completing and operating wells, including with respect to the Comanche assets; and other factors described in Sanchez Energy's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any updates to those risk factors set forth in Sanchez Energy's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or Current Reports on Form 8-K. Further information on such assumptions, risks and uncertainties is available in Sanchez Energy's filings with the SEC. Sanchez Energy's filings with the SEC are available on our website at www.sanchezenergycorp.com and on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov . In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the events anticipated by Sanchez Energy's forward-looking statements may not occur, and, if any of such events do occur, Sanchez Energy may not have correctly anticipated the timing of their occurrence or the extent of their impact on its actual results. Accordingly, you should not place any undue reliance on any of Sanchez Energy's forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and Sanchez Energy undertakes no obligation to correct or update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. COMPANY CONTACTS: Cameron W. George Executive Vice President & CFO Cham J. King Director, Finance & Investor Contact (877) 847-0009 ir@sanchezenergycorp.com General Inquiries: (713) 783-8000 www.sanchezenergycorp.com SANCHEZ ENERGY CORPORATION KEY OPERATING STATISTICS Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 Net Production: Oil (MBbls) 2,336 2,521 Natural gas liquids (MBbls) 2,335 2,406 Natural gas (MMcf) 13,158 13,950 Total oil equivalent (MBoe)(1) 6,864 7,251 Average Sales Price Excluding Derivatives(2): Oil ($ per Bbl) $ 54.81 $ 61.64 Natural gas liquids ($ per Bbl) $ 17.34 $ 20.50 Natural gas ($ per Mcf) $ 3.27 $ 2.99 Oil equivalent ($ per Boe) $ 30.82 $ 33.98 Average Sales Price Including Derivatives(3): Oil ($ per Bbl) $ 53.79 $ 53.32 Natural gas liquids ($ per Bbl) $ 17.34 $ 20.50 Natural gas ($ per Mcf) $ 3.18 $ 3.09 Oil equivalent ($ per Boe) $ 30.31 $ 31.27 Average unit costs per Boe: Oil and natural gas production expenses(4) $ 11.79 $ 9.92 Production and ad valorem taxes $ 1.90 $ 1.86 Depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion $ 9.83 $ 8.17 Impairment of oil and natural gas properties $ 0.57 $ 0.13 (1) Includes production associated with UnSub of approximately 2,055 MBoe and 2,515 MBoe for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. (2) Excludes the impact of derivative instrument settlements. (3) Includes the impact of derivative instrument settlements. (4) Includes a $5.9 million non-cash gain for the three months ended March 31, 2018 from the amortization of the deferred gain on Western Catarina Midstream divestiture. SANCHEZ ENERGY CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA (unaudited) (in thousands, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 REVENUES: Oil sales $ 128,028 $ 155,392 Natural gas liquid sales 40,500 49,305 Natural gas sales 43,049 41,729 Sales and marketing revenues 5,145 4,802 Total revenues 216,722 251,228 OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES: Oil and natural gas production expenses 80,955 71,948 Exploration expenses 1,270 33 Sales and marketing expenses 4,931 4,173 Production and ad valorem taxes 13,050 13,469 Depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion 67,481 59,248 Impairment of oil and natural gas properties 3,930 948 General and administrative expenses 20,483 22,420 Total operating costs and expenses 192,100 172,239 Operating income 24,622 78,989 Other income (expense): Interest income 622 742 Other income 826 3,428 Interest expense (44,553 ) (43,920 ) Net losses on commodity derivatives (48,423 ) (44,054 ) Total other expense (91,528 ) (83,804 ) Loss before income taxes (66,906 ) (4,815 ) Income tax expense 436 Net loss (67,342 ) (4,815 ) Less: Preferred stock dividends (2,516 ) (3,987 ) Preferred unit dividends and distributions (12,500 ) (9,908 ) Preferred unit amortization (7,033 ) (5,930 ) Net loss attributable to common stockholders $ (89,391 ) $ (24,640 ) Net loss per common share - basic and diluted $ (0.98 ) $ (0.30 ) Weighted average number of shares used to calculate net loss attributable to common stockholders - basic and diluted 91,663 80,919 (1) Inclusive of non-cash stock-based compensation expense of $0.1 million and benefit of $0.4 million, respectively for the three months ended March 31, 2019, and 2018. SANCHEZ ENERGY CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET (unaudited) (in thousands, except per share amounts) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 200,698 $ 197,613 Oil and natural gas receivables 79,022 87,222 Joint interest billings receivables 20,367 33,263 Accounts receivable - related entities 9,286 6,099 Fair value of derivative instruments 1,372 15,714 Other current assets 27,813 33,070 Total current assets 338,558 372,981 Oil and natural gas properties, on the basis of successful efforts accounting: Proved oil and natural gas properties 3,817,836 3,792,431 Unproved oil and natural gas properties 317,377 328,643 Total oil and natural gas properties 4,135,213 4,121,074 Less: Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and impairment (1,827,245 ) (1,761,949 ) Total oil and natural gas properties, net 2,307,968 2,359,125 Other assets: Fair value of derivative instruments 6,667 12,102 Right of use assets, net 322,230 Investments (includes investment in SNMP measured at fair value of $4.9 million and $3.9 million as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively) 18,181 16,664 Other assets 52,959 59,088 Total assets $ 3,046,563 $ 2,819,960 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 11,863 $ 32,382 Other payables 124,802 74,628 Accrued liabilities: Capital expenditures 15,252 61,970 Other 90,819 102,728 Fair value of derivative instruments 22,843 706 Short term debt 245 304 Short term lease liabilities 102,508 Other current liabilities 23,826 75,581 Total current liabilities 392,158 348,299 Long term debt, net of premium, discount and debt issuance costs 2,396,151 2,395,408 Asset retirement obligations 47,122 46,175 Fair value of derivative instruments 3,090 366 Long term lease liabilities 222,315 Other liabilities 653 21,407 Total liabilities 3,061,489 2,811,655 Commitments and contingencies Mezzanine equity: Preferred units ($1,000 liquidation preference, 500,000 units authorized, issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018) 472,361 452,828 Stockholders' deficit: Preferred stock ($0.01 par value, 15,000,000 shares authorized; 780,432 and 1,838,985 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively, of 4.875% Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A; 2,511,013 and 3,527,830 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively, of 6.500% Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series B) 32 53 Common stock ($0.01 par value, 300,000,000 shares authorized; 99,794,460 and 87,328,424 shares issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively) 1,007 881 Additional paid-in capital 1,371,450 1,367,427 Accumulated deficit (1,859,776 ) (1,812,884 ) Total stockholders' deficit (487,287 ) (444,523 ) Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit $ 3,046,563 $ 2,819,960 SANCHEZ ENERGY CORPORATION Non-GAAP Reconciliation Adjusted EBITDAX (in thousands) Adjusted EBITDAX is a nonGAAP financial measure that is used as a supplemental financial measure by our management and by external users of our financial statements, such as investors, commercial banks and others, to assess our operating performance as compared to that of other companies in our industry, without regard to financing methods, capital structure or historical costs basis. It is also used to assess our ability to incur and service debt and fund capital expenditures. Our Adjusted EBITDAX should not be considered an alternative to net income (loss), operating income (loss), cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities or any other measure of financial performance or liquidity presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Our Adjusted EBITDAX may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of another company because all companies may not calculate Adjusted EBITDAX in the same manner. The following table presents a reconciliation of our net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDAX: A woman whose hand was caught in workplace machinery at the Gold Coast has been rushed to hospital. Emergency services were called just before 7.30am on Wednesday to Production Avenue at Molendinar after the woman, believed to be in her 50s, was injured. "She was taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital under lights and sirens because there was great concern for her hand," a Queensland Ambulance Service spokesman said. When asked whether there were fears of she could lose her hand, the spokesman said he could not speculate. The patient was in a serious but stable condition with High Acuity Response Unit on board. Mental health workers could be dispatched to Victorian primary schools amid growing concerns about anxiety and depression among students. On Wednesday, following pleas from primary school principals struggling to respond to mentally unwell students, Premier Daniel Andrews flagged an expansion of Labor's initiative to fund mental health workers in secondary schools. We dont rule out doing more if there is the need, and the evidence supports the notion of further investment, Mr Andrews said. Premier Daniel Andrews and & Education Minister James Merlino announce roll out of mental health workers in schools at Elwood College. Credit:Justin McManus When asked if there was a need for mental health workers in primary schools, the Premier said he suspected this was something that would be considered by the Royal Commission into mental health. The media can be a rough game in this town but Opposition Leader Bill Shorten got it exactly right when he said The Daily Telegraph newspaper, the Heralds rival, set a new low with a story making the sneering allegation that he had twisted the life story of his dead mother for political gain. While Mr Shorten was the intended victim of the story, the piece was doubly unfortunate because it also grossly misunderstood the challenge for generations of women. Social media was flooded on Wednesday with people detailing the experiences of their mothers, most with remarkable similarity to Mr Shortens mum. Opposition leader Bill Shorten tears up as he talks about his late mother. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer The News Corporation daily ran a front page lead story, two inside pages and an editorial on Wednesday under the headline Mother of Invention. The paper said Mr Shorten had been slipshod and slippery during the ABC's Q&A program on Monday night when he said his mother, Ann Shorten, who died five years ago, was forced after finishing school to give up an ambition to be a barrister and instead trained as a teacher because that course came with a scholarship that would help support her working class family. Physically the phones very much resemble their more expensive counterparts, but if you compare them directly you'll notice the differences. While the flagship is glass and aluminium, the less expensive phones have a polycarbonate unibody in the same two-tone finish. It feels great to the touch, but it is clearly plastic. Meanwhile the front is covered by Asahi Dragontrail Glass, not Gorilla. Neither change makes a big aesthetic difference, but they mean the phone could be more easily marked or scratched. Of all the step-down smartphone models, including those from Apple and Samsung, Google's entries probably strip the most out (and at $649 and $799 respectively, they certainly offer a decent cash saving), but they also come closest to parity with the flagship. In fact I've been using a Pixel 3a XL for a week, and most of the time I noticed no difference between it and my usual Pixel 3 XL , despite the $550 difference in price. With its just-announced (and just-released) Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL, Google has attempted to deliver the hallmarks of its flagship phone line an excellent camera, a smooth and streamlined version of the latest Android, and a growing collection of helpful AI-powered tricks for a significantly lower price. The Pixel 3a pair feature OLED displays at a little above Full HD resolution, at 5.6 inches or 6 inches respectively, and they're some of the nicest you'll find on any phone. You get the same calibration options as the Pixel 3, so the choice is yours to go for an accurate look or jack up the colours, and the always-on display works just the same too. Although the screen is a slightly different shape (with larger top and bottom bezels), and the XL model does not feature a cutout notch whatsoever, you're essentially getting the same display quality as a flagship phone, which is excellent. Perhaps even more impressively, the outstanding Pixel 3 camera experience has made it across to these new devices wholly intact. The single, optically stabilised 12.2MP main camera does the work of multiple lenses thanks to a lot of smart software, making for excellent HDR stills, arguably the best portrait mode images around and up to 4K video. There's also the amazing Night Sight for low-light shots, Playground for messing around in AR with licenced characters like Detective Pikachu and Iron Man, and Lens for doing instant Google Searches based on what you're looking at. As far as the primary camera goes it's identical to the Pixel 3, which makes this the best camera to ever feature on a mid-range device. The phone's selfie game is the only part of the camera experience that's had an obvious downgrade, as you can no longer take ultra wide front-facing images. Instead of one regular lens and one very wide lens, you just get a single shooter that's a little wider than usual. Battery life was, in my testing, excellent. The 3a and 3a XL feature bigger batteries than the flagship, and likely aren't as power hungry thanks to less powerful internals. I was making it to the end of the day with 50 per cent still in the tank. There's an 18W fast charger in the box, which isn't cutting edge but it will fill the phone from zero to 100 in around two hours. Johannesburg: Five southern African nations that host most of the world's elephants are demanding the right to sell ivory. They say communities that live alongside the pachyderms, which destroy crops and occasionally kill people, must be allowed to benefit from their trade. The presidents of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia, as well as Angola's environment minister, met on Tuesday in Kasane, Botswana, to forge a common policy toward elephant management. An elephant in Botswana's Okavango Delta allows viewers a close approach. Credit:AP Ivory sales currently require approval from the international community through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES). Half of South Africans are in households with per capita income of 1149 rand ($113) or less a month, they wrote, with little chance to change their fortunes despite working hard as maids or security guards. "Put bluntly, they're stuck," Farouk and Leibbrandt concluded. Leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, Julius Malema, centre, sings and dances with party members at an election rally in Soweto, South Africa. Credit:AP Thembeni Manana, an activist who works with the Greater Alexandra Chamber of Commerce, knows the feeling well, describing the inequality that residents of Alexandra feel when then cross the highway bridge into upscale Sandton. "The air in Sandton is so fresh, you could swear they have air-cons outside," Manana said, referring to the air-conditioned high-rises in the wealthy enclave. "When you come back to Alex, yo! A most disgusting smell! A sewer that's overflowing, rats all over the road." The 28-year-old helped coordinate last month's protests, saying that the challenges in righting the inequality are more than cosmetic, more than huddling through power outages in Alexandra while the Sandton skyline glows, unaffected. "With us, we decided enough is enough. We want to challenge the system," she added. 108-year-old MMaphuti Mabitsela voted at home in Atteridgeville, near Pretoria, part of a special service to the elderly and infirm. Credit:AP She delivered a rapid-fire list of demands: schools in Alexandra should have a ratio of 30 children per teacher instead of 70. Street vendors should be allowed to supply grocery store chains, giving them access to the wider economy. Children should be able grow up with both parents in homes that have more than one room, allowing for privacy. The World Bank says South Africa is the most unequal nation on the planet, a fact that former president F.W. de Klerk, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, called "the deepest national shame". South African President Cyril Ramaphosa sings the national anthem at Sunday's rally. Credit:AP It's cutting criticism by someone who oversaw the end of a system that chilled much of the world by segregating its people by the colour of their skin. Current President Cyril Ramaphosa, a Mandela protege, doesn't shy away from the criticism. "Ours is still a deeply unequal country," he acknowledged last month in marking 25 years since the end of apartheid. South Africa's "disturbing" wealth inequality is even more striking than its income disparity, and it threatens democratic values, according to a committee that explored the idea of a wealth tax. Such a tax might help but likely would not change the social relations that create inequality, said Aroop Chatterjee of the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. As Ramaphosa wages war on corruption within an ANC divided into the allies of Zuma, the former president, and those who want reform, public exasperation grows and populist movements simmer. Loading Grievances like those cited by Manana are not limited to Alexandra but exist in many of South Africa's black townships, and Wednesday's election likely will reflect the weariness of asking again and again for change. Ramaphosa has promised to accelerate land redistribution, improve service delivery, create jobs and fight corruption. Opinion polls predict the ANC will again win a majority of the 400 seats in the National Assembly, but analysts predict its margin of victory will fall. "The belief is that a poor showing for the ANC would embolden Ramaphosa's opponents and risk a potential leadership challenge," Razia Khan, chief Africa economist at Standard Chartered, said in a research report. A record 48 parties are running in the parliamentary poll, with many more contesting the elections for nine provincial legislatures. The ANC's biggest challengers are main opposition party the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). The centre-right DA won 22 per cent of the parliamentary vote in 2014. It appointed its first black leader Mmusi Maimane in 2015 and made headlines by leading coalition victories in local government elections in Pretoria and Johannesburg a year later. But splits within the party and with allies could see support for the DA wane. Supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party attend a rally in Soweto on Sunday. Credit:AP Phnom Penh: An Australian woman serving a 23-year prison sentence in Cambodia for drug smuggling has been declared innocent and set free after the Cambodian Court of Appeal agreed that she was the victim of an internet love scam. The 46-year-old former Queensland primary school teacher, Yoshe Ann Taylor, landed back in Australia this morning to reunite with her two children, whom she has not spoken to in five years. Yoshe Ann Taylor arrives at Brisbane airport on Thursday morning. Credit:Paul Harris The Cambodian court accepted in a hearing on Good Friday that Ms Taylor was lured to the capital, Phnom Penh, in late 2013 on the promise of love and a career in the arts and crafts business. In reality she was the victim of a highly organised scam run by an international drug smuggling syndicate, which tricked her into carrying luggage through Phnom Penh airport with 2.2 kilograms of heroin concealed in its lining. The Australian Federal Police had tipped off Cambodian authorities, who stopped her at the airport. Impeachment hearings should therefore begin immediately to preserve the rule of law and protect democracy. The brightest dividing line between democratic republics and authoritarian regimes is the rule of law. These days, just about every tinpot despot holds sham elections, so what separates dictatorship from democracy isn't just voting. It's the rule of law that gives meaning to democratic institutions. Without it, democracy is a mirage. And in functioning democracies, the idea that "nobody is above the law" isn't just a slogan. And yet, Trump has almost certainly committed serious crimes without any consequences. The Justice Department called him "Individual-1" in court filings that implicated Trump in a criminal conspiracy. Personal checks signed by Trump as hush-money reimbursement payments constitute physical evidence that the conspiracy continued into the White House. The New York Times published convincing evidence that Trump engaged in widespread criminal tax fraud over decades - fraud that would land anyone else in jail. But there is also convincing evidence that Trump committed crimes to try to protect himself, a direct and dangerous challenge to rule of law. Although special counsel Robert S. Mueller III declined to charge Trump with crimes himself, he did outline 10 instances of obstruction of justice, several of which would normally lead to indictments. The report shows that Trump tried to fire Mueller, tried to shut down the investigation and tried to abuse his authority to wield the law as a weapon against his political adversaries. So here's a question for congressional leaders: Precisely how many crimes does someone have to commit before impeachment hearings are warranted? Loading Does the person in question get a pass if it's three or fewer? Was there some clause in the Constitution that I missed that says it's okay for the president to direct a criminal conspiracy in certain circumstances? Is there a Federalist Paper that says the president can commit tax fraud so long as it was years ago, or that obstruction of justice is fair game so long as it happens on Twitter? To oppose impeachment hearings now, you have to believe that the president allegedly engaging in three separate categories of criminal acts isn't serious enough to even consider impeachment. Really? Is that the precedent we want to set? If Trump does not face impeachment hearings, then what are the consequences for his alleged criminal behavior and his blatant attempts to subvert rule of law? The answer, unfortunately, is that there would be none. And beyond the alleged crimes, it's also not a bad idea to set a new precedent: that presidents get impeached if they actively encourage foreign attacks on US elections or refuse to protect future elections from those attacks. When the Kremlin attacked our democratic process, Trump welcomed the assault, promoted it, tried to cover it up by blaming it on others and then attempted to subvert an investigation aimed at exposing the culprits. Last week, Trump even called it a "hoax" in a conversation with the chief perpetrator of the attack, Vladimir Putin. Are Republicans comfortable with setting the precedent that such behavior is acceptable? Pursuant to the Notice of 15 April 2019, an Annual General Meeting of the shareholders of Prosafe SE was held today, 8 May 2019, at Advokatfirmaet Schjdts offices, Ruselkkveien 14, 0201 Oslo, Norway. As follows from the attached Minutes from the Annual General Meeting, all items on the agenda were duly approved as proposed in the Notice. Prosafe is a leading owner and operator of semi-submersible accommodation vessels. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with ticker code PRS. For more information, please refer to www.prosafe.com Oslo, 8 May 2019 Prosafe SE For further information, please contact: Glen Ole Rdland, Chairman of Prosafe SE Phone: +47 907 41 662 Jesper K. Andresen, CEO Phone: +47 907 65 155 Stig Harry Christiansen, Deputy CEO and CFO Phone: +47 478 07 813 This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act Attachment Highlands Ranch, Colorado: Two male students armed with guns have burst into a Colorado science and technology school and opened fire, killing one classmate and wounding eight others before being taken into custody, law enforcement officials said. Several of the surviving victims of the attack at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) School in Highlands Ranch, a Denver suburb, were initially listed in critical condition at local hospitals and in surgery, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said. Officials guide students off a bus to be reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver school. Credit:AP One of those victims, an 18-year-old male, later died of his injuries, Spurlock said a short time later. "Two individuals walked into the STEM school, got deep inside the school, and engaged students in two separate locations," Spurlock said. The plans by far-right MP Geert Wilders to make a film that he says will show the Koran is "an inspiration for murder" has caused unease in the Netherlands which fears violent repercussions. Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende has said that Wilders' plans and the international attention they are getting is causing the government headaches. "We have seen other crises but this is a substantial one," he told Dutch public television. Wilders, the head of the far-right Freedom Party, announced in November that he planned to release a 10-minute film this month that will show his view that Islam's holy book, the Koran, "is an inspiration for intolerance, murder and terror". Nobody knows for sure if the film project will ever see the light of day but the government here is bracing for the worst. PHILIPSBURG:--- A wire bending programme was piloted at two after-school programmes to encourage the development of craftsmanship skills and awareness of this Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) element. The participating schools are MAC Browlia Maillard After-school programme and Oranje Community Afterschool. The wire bending programme is being spearheaded by the Sint Maarten National Commission for UNESCO, and the sessions are given by Mr. Lambert Holder. Minister of Education, Youth, Culture, and Sport, the honorable Wycliffe Smith visited some of the students, their instructor, and the program coordinators and congratulated them on their work. Students in both programmes have created baskets and fishes out of wire. The next project will be the creation of the renown Caribbean trickster, Anansi the Spider. Mr. Lambert Holder has indicated that for this project the students will be working together in groups to create this character out of wire. He emphasized that as the students work on these wire bending projects, they are not only learning the craft of making art out of wire but are also learning mathematical skills, cooperative skills and much more. According to Ms. Marcellia Henry, Secretary General of the local National Commission, UNESCO St. Maarten looks forward to piloting more programmes, like this wire bending programme at other after-school programmes to promote and develop craftsmanship skills. This aspect of our intangible cultural heritage needs to be encouraged to ensure that these skills and knowledge are transferred to the next generation, ensuring that this aspect of St. Martin's cultural heritage lives on. She thanked Mr. Holder for collaborating with the UNESCO Office on this programme, and the others that will be initiated soon. She also thanked Ms. Olivia Jacobs of the Oranje Community School and Ms. Juliana Shipley-Hodge of the MAC Browlia Maillard After school programme for allowing this programme to be piloted in their schools. The pilot programme started at the MAC Browlia Maillard After school programme on November 30, 2018, and commenced at Oranje Community school on January 4, 2019. Approximately 23 students participate in the wire bending programme at Oranje, which is held on Tuesdays at 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm for the first group of students and then at 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm for the second group of students. At the MAC, five (5) students have joined the programme thus far, who meet on Fridays from 2 pm to 3 pm. Awareness Background State Secretary Knops (source Wikipedia) It has been very quiet with the largest opposition parties on the discussion of the endless political conditioning of the VVD lead government towards St.Maarten. It almost is starting to feel like a Goliath and David story if you have any hope for a future. State Secretary Knops a well educated Minister Studied from 1990- 1995 Royal Military Academy Breda and 1996-1999 Public administration Erasmus University Rotterdam, he was deployed to Iraq as a policy adviser, as part of the military staff of the Dutch battlegroup commander of SFIR 5. People might want to argue his arrogance but it is simple he gets orders and executes it that's what he studied for Military style including all his working experiences. Our Political leaders who have not spend significant time in the Netherlands or did any negotiations should carefully re-strategize. After all, if you spend time in Iraq strategizing, St.Maarten is not a challenge. Not surprisingly a political turf war will come now intentions are to bypass and embarrass the local Government-Parliament and directly fund NGOs influencing public opinion which was mentioned in an article of the local newspaper. A St.Maarten Budget debate now is just a formality and surprisingly the CFT is quiet. Why FvD and PVV leaders roots are key? Despite the opposition of several parties in the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament, the Party for Freedom PVV continues the process to handle an initiative law proposal to expel persons of the Dutch Caribbean countries from the Netherlands once they have committed a crime. Initiators of the law proposal, Members of Parliament (MPs) Sietse Fritsma and Machiel de Graaf (PVV). Has our parliament invited MP Fritsma and MP M de Graaf from PVV? Or are we going to continue to give attention to MP van Raak and Bosman? Dont forget that MP van Raak has been on a biblical mission to criminally investigate his own top Dutch Executives in the Netherlands such as KMPG Jaap van Everdingen (who recently was acquitted) and executives from ING bank. If our leaders had strategized and studied our political colleagues from the Hague one could quickly conclude that both Thierry Baudet and Geert Wilders have more in common with St.Maarten people then you think. They both find their roots-ancestors in Indonesia as a former colony which was massacred by the Netherlands for their independence action and behavior. Both are outcasts, Wilders left the Liberal VVD party. They are now even considered as the Dutch Outsiders from the Hague with explosive popularity, now is this not a coincidence. Geert Wilder himself is battling a criminal case concerning certain statements he made about a foreign group to defend his own country and people. Was this also not motivated because of his popularity which Thierry Baudet has now taken over. Remember Wilders passionate words, vision, and mindset: Our people, Our Land, Our Culture, Our future Is this not what St. Maarten is also aiming for? Court Recognises Dutch Colony Massacres- Leaders Roots (source ; the Jakarta post Norwegian Refugee Council; massacre world forgot : nrc) Dutch Ambassador to Indonesia Tjeerd de Zwaan with some of the surviving family members of the victims of mass killings committed by the Dutch military between 1945 and 1949; Aisyah, Nuraeni, Ambo Upe, Andi Intang, and Nuraeni, after a ceremony in Jakarta. The Netherlands formally apologized for the killings that occurred more than six decades ago during Indonesia's fight for independence. Can we learn from Indonesians? The court decided the Netherlands must apologize to them, but the government has also decided to apologize for similar cases of the same magnitude as cases in Rawagede and South Sulawesi. The Dutch government paid A20,000 (US$26,560) to each of the nine victim widows who sued the Netherlands at a court in The Hague over the Rawagede tragedy. In 2011, the Dutch government apologized for the Rawagede tragedy, which caused the deaths of no fewer than 430 Indonesians in 1947. Click here to read sourced articles. PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Franklyn Meyers informed Parliament on Wednesday during a public meeting of Parliament where Minister of Justice Cornelius de Weever was present that the former UD Leader and suspended MP Theodore Heyliger is not doing well while being incarcerated at the Pointe Blanche Prison. Meyers said he visited Heyliger on Wednesday and he saw that Heyliger is not doing well while he is not receiving proper treatment while in prison. Meyers asked the Minister to look into what is going at the prison especially the deplorable conditions of the prison and the limited recreation time Heyliger receives. He then said very passionately that should anything happens to Heyliger while in custody then heaven will have to help the Dutch. Octopus Apollo VCT plc Final Results 8 May 2019 Octopus Apollo VCT plc, managed by Octopus Investments Limited, today announces the final results for the year ended 31 January 2019. These results were approved by the Board of Directors on 7 May 2019. You may, in due course, view the Annual Report in full at www.octopusinvestments.com. All other statutory information can also be found there. Year to 31 January 2019 Year to 31 January 2018 Net assets (000) 119,024 130,377 (Loss)/profit after tax (000) (1,183) 3,699 Net asset value (NAV) per share (p) 47.1 50.6 Cumulative dividends paid since launch (p) 71.1 68.0 NAV per share plus cumulative dividends paid (p) 118.2 118.6 Total return %* (0.8) 2.2 Ordinary dividends per share paid in the year (p) 3.1 3.3 Special dividends paid in the year - 10.7 Proposed final dividend (p)** 1.5 1.6 *Total Return is an alternative performance measure calculated as movement in NAV in the period plus dividends paid in the period, divided by the NAV at the beginning of the period. **The final proposed dividend of 1.5p per Ordinary share for the year ended 31 January 2019 will, subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting, be paid on 9 August 2019 to all Ordinary shareholders on the register on 19 July 2019. Key Dates Annual General Meeting 11 July 2019 4.00 p.m. at 33 Holborn, London, EC1N 2HT Ordinary Share final dividend payment date 9 August 2019 Half-yearly Results to 31 July 2019 published September 2019 Annual Results to 31 January 2020 announced May 2020 Annual Report and Accounts published May 2020 Chairmans Statement Introduction I am pleased to present the Annual Report of Apollo for the year ended 31 January 2019. Performance On a total return basis, after adding back the 3.1p of dividends paid in the year, the NAV has decreased 0.8%. The NAV plus cumulative dividends has decreased from 118.6p per share as at 31 January 2018 to 118.2p per share as at 31 January 2019. Further details of the years performance is highlighted in the Investment Managers Review later in this Report. Investment Activity In the year under review the Company invested 17.5 million, including 16.4 million into five new investments and 1.1 million in follow-on capital to existing investee companies to continue their growth plans. There were six exits of portfolio companies during the year generating total proceeds to the Company of 1.7 million, in addition to receiving 0.5 million of further deferred sales proceeds from disposals in previous years. Dividend and Dividend Policy It is your Boards policy to maintain a regular dividend flow where possible in order to take advantage of the tax-free distributions a VCT is able to provide. The Board has proposed a final dividend of 1.5p per share in respect of the year ended 31 January 2019. This is in addition to the 1.5p interim dividend paid in November 2018, and will bring the total dividends declared to 3.0p for the year. As in previous years, dividends will first be paid out of any revenue reserves, with any remaining balance to be paid from the special distributable reserve. The dividend will be payable on 9 August 2019 to shareholders on the register at 19 July 2019. Dividend Reinvestment Scheme (DRIS) In common with a number of VCTs, the Company has a dividend reinvestment scheme which was introduced in November 2014. This is an attractive scheme for investors who do not need income, but would prefer to benefit from additional income tax relief on their re-invested dividend. I hope that shareholders will find this scheme beneficial. During the year to 31 January 2019 2,901,629 shares were issued under the DRIS, returning 1.4 million to the Company. Share Buybacks Your Company has continued to buy back and cancel shares as required. Subject to shareholder approval of resolution 10 at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) this facility will remain in place to provide liquidity to investors who may wish to sell their shares. VCT Regulations Status PwC provides both the Board and Manager with advice concerning ongoing compliance with HMRCs rules and regulations concerning VCTs. The Board has been advised that the Company is in compliance with the conditions laid down by HMRC for maintaining approval as a VCT. A key requirement is to maintain at least a 70% qualifying investment level which, at 31 January 2019, was at 92.5%. The required level will rise to 80% for accounting periods beginning after 6 April 2019, so Apollo will need to be at 80% or higher by 31 January 2020 to maintain its VCT status. Annual General Meeting The Companys Annual General Meeting will take place on 11 July 2019 at 4.00 p.m. I look forward to welcoming you to the meeting which will be held at the offices of Octopus Investments Limited at 33 Holborn, London, EC1N 2HT. Directions to their office can be found by visiting their website at: www.octopusinvestments.com. Outlook and future prospects We continue to be optimistic about the Companys future investment prospects and its current diverse portfolio. As a result of a significant emphasis on origination activities the investment team has completed five new investments during the year and expects to be able to continue with further new investment activity in 2019. This position has led myself and the Board to the decision that it is in the interest of shareholders for the Company to raise additional funds. We are intending to launch the fund raising in May 2019 for an initial amount of 20 million, with a 10 million over allotment facility (subject to demand). This will allow the investment team to continue making investments on behalf of the Company, helping to further diversify the assets and create opportunities for future growth. I look forward to addressing all shareholders when the documentation is released in May, with a Chairmans Statement outlining further details and why I am excited for the opportunity head of us. Murray Steele Chairman 7 May 2019 Investment Managers Review Personal Service At Octopus we focus on both managing your investments and keeping you informed throughout the investment process. We are committed to providing our investors with regular and open communication. Our updates are designed to keep you informed about the progress of your investment. Octopus was established in 2000 and has a strong commitment to both smaller companies and to VCTs. We currently manage four VCTs, including this one, and manage over 1 billion in the VCT sector. Investment Policy The majority of companies in which Apollo invests operate in sectors where there is a high degree of predictability and/or a strong opportunity for growth. Ideally, we seek companies that have recurring or repeating revenues from financially sound customers and that will provide an opportunity for the Company to realise its investment within three to five years. Performance The Company made a total loss per share of 0.8% in the year to 31 January 2019. Whilst the NAV per share decreased from 50.6p to 47.1p, 3.1p of dividends were paid over the period, bringing cumulative dividends paid to date to 71.1p and the total value (NAV plus cumulative dividends) to 118.2p per share. While the first half of the year reported a total loss per share of 2.2%, the second half of the year resulted in a recovery in performance yielding a total return of 1.4%. This however was not sufficient to report an overall positive total return for the year. The disappointing performance across the year was largely attributable to adverse fair value movements on the three specific investments discussed below, which was offset by a continuation of the strong interest yield from loans made to portfolio companies and positive fair value movements across the rest of the portfolio. Portfolio Review As at 31 January 2019 the Companys portfolio was comprised of 51 portfolio companies with a total valuation of 86.5 million. This represents 72.7% of the net assets of the fund with 26.5% of the net assets held as cash or liquid assets at the year-end. The portfolio includes ten quoted AIM investments (4.8% of net assets), 12 Octopus Titan VCT plc (an Octopus managed VCT) co-investments in earlier stage businesses (6.3% of net assets), with the balance (61.6% of net assets) being more typical Apollo investments in private companies. During the year, the value of the invested portfolio increased by 0.3 million, excluding additions and disposals. The modest increase is as a result of positive valuation movements across a number of investments in the portfolio including the funds investment in Healthcare Services and Technology Limited (trading as HAS Technology) and Hasgrove Limited. These increases were offset by negative valuation adjustments during the year from Eve Sleep plc (1.4 million valuation decrease), Sourceable Limited (trading as Swoon Editions) (1.2 million valuation decrease), and Coupra Limited (trading as ISG Technology) (1.1 million valuation decrease), as a result of specific trading performance issues within each business during the year. As part of liquidity management during the previous year the Company invested 53.0 million in the Octopus Portfolio Manager (OPM) funds. During the current year 35.0 million was withdrawn to fund new investments, dividends and share buybacks taking total holdings at 31 January 2019 to 18.3 million, at year end valuations. Octopus has waived its management fees in relation to OPM to ensure it is not taking fees twice on the same funds under management. The Companys investment portfolio is set out below. It continues to hold appropriate investments to meet VCT requirements. The Manager now has the opportunity to make a number of further investments with the aim of building the Company NAV. Investment Activity During the year, the Company disposed of six investments for total sale proceeds of 1.7 million. This resulted in a loss of 0.5m on the total cost of 2.2 million. In addition the Company received 0.5 million of further deferred sale proceeds from disposals in previous years, resulting in a net profit of nil over cost on these investments in the year. Positive gains recognised in the majority of the disposals were offset by a 1.1 million loss recognised on the sale of Yu Group plc and a 0.4 million loss on MIRACL Limited which went into liquidation during the period. The Company made the following new investments during the year: Natterbox 5.0 million a B2B cloud-based telephony provider, whose offering seamlessly integrates with customer relationship management (CRM) software SimplyCook 4.5 million a direct-to-consumer subscription-based flavourings and recipe company, supplying UK customers and allowing them to cook tastier meals at home City Pantry 3.1 million an online marketplace facilitating the provision of high-quality catering from local specialist independent food vendors to corporate customers Ubisecure 2.1 million a customer identity and access management software provider to enable customers to effectively manage their end-users digital identities and automate authentication and encryption Triumph Research Intelligence 1.6 million a software provider to contract research organisations and pharmaceutical companies for the monitoring of clinical research trials In addition to the new investments above, the Company invested 0.9 million in follow-on capital to existing investee companies to continue their growth plans. Since the year end, the Company has also made two further investments to date for a total of 7.2 million plus further follow-on funding to selected companies. Outlook and Future Prospects We remain optimistic about the Companys future investment prospects and its current diverse portfolio. Having adjusted the investment strategy to comply with VCT rule changes, the investment team has increased new investment activity during the year, focusing on growth capital investments. The team has a continued pipeline of new investment opportunities which should support a strong level of new investment activity in the upcoming year. Therefore, and as noted in the Chairmans Statement we are planning to launch a fund raising in May 2019 in order to fund investment opportunities for the forecast period. Although Brexit negotiations are still ongoing, and the timing and outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, we do not believe that the Company has a direct material exposure to the outcome. Our investment strategy remains on UK-focussed companies with limited international exposure, and we believe that access to new VCT-qualifying growth capital investment opportunities will not likely be directly impacted by Brexit. If you have any questions on any aspect of your investment, please call one of the team on 0800 316 2295. Richard Court Octopus Investments Limited 7 May 2019 Investment Portfolio Top 10 Investments Sector Investment cost as at 31 January 2019 000 Total movement in fair value since investment 000 Fair value as at 31 January 2019 000 Movement in fair value in year to 31 January 2019 000 % equity held by Apollo VCT % equity held by all funds managed by Octopus Healthcare and Services Technology Limited Healthcare 7,186 1,196 8,382 622 10.0 10.0 Natterbox Limited Technology 4,990 410 5,400 410 9.0 9.0 Anglo European Group Limited Manufacturing 5,000 96 5,096 287 26.7 26.7 Countrywide Healthcare Services Limited Healthcare 2,675 2,292 4,967 103 20.7 20.7 Simply Cook Limited Consumer Products 4,500 - 4,500 - 16.4 16.4 Coupra Limited Business Services 5,000 (1,013) 3,987 (1,098) 9.8 9.8 City Pantry Ltd Retail 3,148 307 3,455 307 8.0 8.0 Kabardin Limited Energy 2,450 760 3,210 760 49.0 100 Dyscova Limited Healthcare 4,700 (1,626) 3,074 - 62.2 62.2 Tanganyika Heat Limited Energy 4,108 (1,372) 2,736 524 49.9 100 Other* 43,723 (1,992) 41,731 (1,613) Total investments 87,480 (942) 86,538 302 Current asset investments 18,342 Cash at bank 13,203 Debtors less creditors 941 Net assets 119,024 *Other comprises the remaining 41 investments whose valuation is outside the top 10: Acquire Your Business Limited, Angelico Solar Limited, Artesian Solutions Limited, Augean plc, Barrecore Limited, Behaviometrics AB, Bramante Solar Limited, British Country Inns plc, Canaletto Solar Limited, Cello Group plc, CurrencyFair Limited, Ecrebo Limited, EKF Diagnostics Holdings plc, Ergomed plc, Eve Sleep plc, Hasgrove Limited, Leonardo Solar Limited, Luther Pendragon Limited, Mi-Pay Group plc, MIRACL Limited, Modigliani Solar Limited, Nektan plc, Origami Energy Limited, Oxifree Group Holding Limited, Pirlo Solar Limited, Red Poll Power Limited, Renalytix plc, Secret Escapes Limited, Segura Systems Limited, Sourceable Limited (Swoon Editions), Superior Heat Limited, Synnovia plc, Tintoretto Solar Limited, Tiziano Solar Limited, Trafi Limited, Triumph Holdings Limited, Ubisecure Limited, Valloire Power Limited, Vertu Motors plc, Winnipeg Heat Limited and Zynstra Limited. Directors Responsibilities Statement The Directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic Report, Directors Report, Directors Remuneration Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations. Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the Directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable laws) including FRS 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Under company law the Directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs and profit or loss of the Company for that period. In preparing these financial statements, the Directors are required to: select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent; state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue in business; and prepare a Strategic Report, a Directors Report and Directors Remuneration Report which comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Companys transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements and the Directors Remuneration Report comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. The Directors confirm that: so far as each Director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Companys auditor is unaware; and the Directors have taken all the steps that they ought to have taken as Directors in order to make themselves aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the auditors are aware of that information. The Directors are responsible for preparing the annual report in accordance with applicable law and regulations. Having taken advice from the Audit Committee, the Directors consider the annual report and the financial statements, taken as a whole, provide the information necessary to assess the Companys position performance, business model and strategy and is fair, balanced and understandable. The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of the corporate and financial information included on the Companys website. Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. To the best of our knowledge: the financial statements, prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom Accounting Standards and applicable laws), including Financial Reporting Standard 102 The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company; and the annual report, including the Strategic Report, includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the Company, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties that it faces. On behalf of the Board Murray Steele Chairman 7 May 2019 NON-STATUTORY ACCOUNTS The financial information set out below does not constitute the Company's statutory accounts for the years ended 31 January 2019 or 31 January 2018 but is derived from those accounts. Statutory accounts for the year ended 31 January 2018 have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies and statutory accounts for the year ended 31 January 2019 will be delivered to the Registrar of Companies in due course. The Auditor has reported on those accounts; their reports were (i) unqualified, (ii) did not include a reference to any matters to which the Auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying their report and (iii) did not contain a statement under Section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006. The text of the Auditor's reports can be found in the Company's full Annual Report and Accounts at www.octopusinvestments.com. Income Statement Year ended 31 January 2019 Year ended 31 January 2018 Revenue 000 Capital 000 Total 000 Revenue 000 Capital 000 Total 000 Realised (loss)/gain on disposal of fixed asset investments - (531) (531) 4,186 4,186 Realised loss on disposal of current asset investments - (127) (127) Change in fair value of fixed asset investments - 302 302 1,063 1,063 Change in fair value of current asset investments - - - 469 469 Investment income 3,469 139 3,608 3,627 3,627 Investment management fees (545) (1,634) (2,179) (724) (2,858) (3,582) Other expenses (2,256) - (2,256) (2,068) (2,068) FX translation - - - 4 4 (Loss)/Profit before tax 668 (1,851) (1,183) 835 2,864 3,699 Tax on return on ordinary activities - - - (Loss)/Profit after tax 668 (1,851) (1,183) 835 2,864 3,699 Earnings per share basic and diluted 0.3p (0.7)p (0.4)p 0.3p 1.2p 1.5p The Total column of this statement is the profit and loss account of the Company; the revenue return and capital return columns have been prepared under guidance published by the Association of Investment Companies All revenue and capital items in the above statement derive from continuing operations The Company has only one class of business and derives its income from investments made in shares and securities and from bank and money market funds The Company has no other comprehensive income for the period. Balance Sheet As at 31 January 2019 As at 31 January 2018 000 000 000 000 Fixed asset investments 86,538 71,326 Current assets: Investments 18,342 53,469 Debtors 2,580 2,074 Cash at bank 13,203 5,455 34,125 60,998 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year (1,639) (1,947) Net current assets 32,486 59,051 Net assets 119,024 130,377 Share capital 25,250 25,748 Share premium 53,256 52,162 Special distributable reserve 29,602 40,489 Capital redemption reserve 3,914 3,125 Capital reserve realised 7,698 9,445 Capital reserve unrealised (696) (602) Revenue reserve - Translation reserve - 10 Total shareholders' funds 119,024 130,377 Net asset value per share basic and diluted 47.1p 50.6p The statements were approved by the Directors and authorised for issue on 7 May 2019 and are signed on their behalf by: Murray Steele Chairman Company number: 05840377 Statement of Changes in Equity Share Capital 000 Share Premium 000 Special distributable reserves* 000 Capital redemption reserve 000 Capital reserve realised* 000 Capital reserve unrealised 000 Revenue reserve 000 Translation reserve 000 Total 000 As at 1 February 2018 25,748 52,162 40,489 3,125 9,445 (602) 10 130,377 Total comprehensive income for the year (2,153) 302 668 - (1,183) Contributions by and distributions to owners: Repurchase and cancellation of own shares (789) (3,649) 789 (3,649) Issue of shares 291 1,094 1,385 Dividends paid (7,238) (668) (7,906) Total contributions by and distributions to owners: (498) 1,094 (10,887) 789 (668) (10,170) Other movements: Prior year holding gains now realised 396 (396) Transfer of translation reserve - - 10 (10) Total other movements - - 406 (396) (10) Balance as at 31 January 2019 25,250 53,256 29,602 3,914 7,698 (696) - 119,024 Share Capital 000 Share Premium 000 Special distributable reserves* 000 Capital redemption reserve 000 Capital reserve realised* 000 Capital reserve unrealised 000 Revenue reserve 000 Translation reserve 000 Total 000 As at 1 February 2017 22,603 34,231 76,144 2,832 (1,537) 7,520 6 141,799 Total comprehensive income for the year 1,328 1,532 835 4 3,699 Contributions by and distributions to owners: Repurchase and cancellation of own shares (293) (1,639) 293 (1,639) Issue of shares 3,594 17,931 21,525 Dividends paid (34,172) (835) (35,007) Total contributions by and distributions to owners: 3,301 17,931 (35,811) 293 (835) (15,121) Other movements: Prior year holding gains now realised 9,654 (9,654) Cancellation of Deferred Shares D shares (156) 156 Total other movements (156) - 156 9,654 (9,654) Balance as at 31 January 2018 25,748 52,162 40,489 3,125 9,445 (602) 10 130,377 *Included in these reserves is an amount of 36,604,000 (2018: 49,332,000) which is considered distributable to shareholders. Cash Flow Statement Year to 31 January 2019 000 Year to 31 January 2018 000 Cash from operating activities (Loss)/Profit after tax (1,183) 3,699 Adjustments for: (Increase)/decrease in debtors (506) 2,003 Decrease in creditors (308) (2,444) Loss/(gain)on disposal of fixed assets 531 (4,186) Loss on disposal of current assets 127 - Gain on valuation of fixed asset investments (302) (1,063) Gain on valuation of current asset investments - (469) In-specie dividend (139) - Cash from operations (1,780) (2,460) Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of fixed asset investments (17,509) (2,051) Disposal/(purchase) of current asset investments 35,000 (53,000) Proceeds on sale of fixed asset investments 2,207 48,858 Net cash flows from investing activities 19,698 (6,193) Cash flows from financing activities Purchase of own shares (3,649) (1,639) Share issues - 16,119 Dividends paid (6,521) (29,601) Net cash flows from financing activities (10,170) (15,121) Increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 7,748 (23,774) Opening cash and cash equivalents 5,455 29,229 Closing cash and cash equivalents 13,203 5,455 Post Balance Sheet Events The following events occurred between the Balance Sheet date and the signing of these financial statements: The Company invested a total of 7.2 million into two new qualifying investments. Four follow-on investments completed totalling 4.0 million. The Company has announced its intention to launch a new offer for subscription in May 2019 to raise up to 20 million with an over-allotment facility of a further 10 million. As we enter into 2022, there is still a level of uncertainty in place. Its unclear what the future holds, as companies around the world still contend with the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote working has been encouraged by most organisations and the move to a hybrid working system has become business as usual, for the majority of businesses. Some have reduced their office space or done away with their locations altogether. Following best security practices With all this change in place, there are problems to deal with. According to research, 32.7% of IT admins say they are concerned about employees using unsecured networks to carry out that work. Alongside this, 74% of IT admins thought that remote work makes it harder for employees to follow best security practices. This need to manage security around remote work is no longer temporary. Instead, companies have to build permanent strategies around remote work and security. The coming year will also create a different landscape for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs). Here are some key predictions for next year and what to start preparing for in 2022: The reality of SMB spending around security will hit home SMBs had to undertake significant investments to adapt to remote working SMBs had to undertake significant investments to adapt to remote working, especially in comparison to their size. They had to undertake significant digital transformation projects that made it possible to deliver services remotely, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Weve seen a shift in mindset for these companies, which are now more tech-focused in their approach to problem solving. According to our research, 45% of SMBs plan to increase their spending towards IT services in 2022. Around half of all organisations think their IT budgets are adequate for their needs, while 14.5% of those surveyed believe they will need more, to cover all that needs to be done. Identity management spending to support remote work For others, the COVID-19 pandemic led to over-spending, just to get ahead of things and they will spend in 2022, looking at what they should keep and what they can reduce their spending on. Areas like identity management will stay in place, as companies struggle to support remote work and security, without this in place. However, on-premise IT spending will be reduced or cut, as those solutions are not relevant for the new work model. Services that rely on on-premise IT will be cut or replaced. The device will lead the way for security We rely on our phones to work and to communicate. In 2022, they will become central to how we manage access, to all our assets and locations, IT and physical. When employees can use company devices and their own phones for work, security is more difficult. IT teams have to ensure that theyre prepared for this, by making sure that these devices can be trusted. Wide use of digital certificates and strong MFA factors Rather than requiring a separate smart card or fingerprint reader, devices can be used for access using push authentication There are multiple ways that companies can achieve this, for example - By using digital certificates to identify company devices as trusted, an agent, or strong MFA factors, like a FIDO security key or mobile push authentication. Whichever approach you choose, this can prevent unauthorised access to IT assets and applications, and these same devices can be used for authentication into physical locations too. Rather than requiring a separate smart card or fingerprint reader, devices can be used for access using push authentication. Understanding human behaviour Alongside this, it is important to understand human behaviour. Anything that introduces an extra step for authentication can lead to employees taking workarounds. To stop this, it is important to put an employee education process in place, in order to emphasize on the importance of security. The next step is to think about adopting passwordless security, to further reduce friction and increase adoption. Lastly, as devices become the starting point for security and trust, remote device management will be needed too. More companies will need to manage devices remotely, from wiping an asset remotely if it gets lost or stolen, through to de-provisioning users easily and removing their access rights, when they leave the company. Identity will be a layer cake Zero Trust approaches to security Identity management relies on being able to trust that someone is who they say they are. Zero Trust approaches to security can support this effectively, particularly when aligned with least privilege access models. In order to turn theory into practical easy-to-deploy steps, companies need to use contextual access, as part of their identity management strategy. This involves looking at the context that employees will work in and putting together the right management approach for those circumstances. For typical employee behaviour, using two factor authentication might be enough to help them work, without security getting in the way. How enterprises manage, access and store identity data There will also be a shift in how enterprises manage, access, and store that identity data over time For areas where security is more important, additional security policies can be put over the top, to ensure that only the right people have access. A step-up in authentication can be added, based on the sensitivity of resources or risk-based adaptive authentication policies might be needed. There will also be a shift in how enterprises manage, access, and store that identity data over time, so that it aligns more closely with those use cases. Identity management critical to secure assets in 2022 There are bigger conversations taking place around digital identity for citizenship, as more services move online as well. Any moves that take place in this arena will affect how businesses think about their identity management processes too, encouraging them to look at their requirements in more detail. Overall, 2022 will be the year when identity will be critical to how companies keep their assets secure and their employees productive. With employees working remotely and businesses becoming decentralised, identity strategies will have to take the same approach. This will put the emphasis on strong identity management as the starting point for all security planning. 2021s most popular expert panel roundtable discussions Topics that dominated our websites Expert Panel Roundtable articles in 2021 included the effects of COVID-19, the benefits of mobile access, the upcoming potential of deep learning, and the future of access control cards. Our websites Expert Panel Roundtable discussions in 2021 reflected some of the most timely and important topics in the industry. The very most clicked-on Expert Panel Roundtable discussion in 2021 considered the positive and negative effects of COVID-19. The second most popular was trends in perimeter security technology. Smart video solutions Here is a roundup of the Top 10 Expert Panel Roundtable discussions posted in 2021, along with a sound bite from each discussion and links back to the full articles. Thanks to everyone who contributed to Expert Panel Roundtable in 2021 (including the quotable panelists named and linked below). The pandemic has impacted security in many ways, some we are just now realising" What are the positive and negative effects of COVID-19 to security? The pandemic has impacted security in many ways, some we are just now realising. On the negative side, integrators were limited in their ability to access customer locations, posing significant challenges to supporting customers. Innovation was also halted in many sectors such as AI and edge computing in healthcare. However, the pandemic increased awareness regarding the need for smart solutions that can aid in these types of crises. Smart video solutions have been identified repeatedly in the media as a potential pathway to better customer experience and increased safety. Alexander Harlass. Reducing false alarms What are the latest trends in perimeter security technology? Whats really important in perimeter security is the minimisation of false alarms, not simply the potential detection of what might be an unauthorised person or object. In light of that, many systems now include alarm validation that can confirm an alarm event using a camera. The utilisation of AI-based technologies can further validate the accuracy of the alarm, making it as accurate and precise as possible. I anticipate seeing more cross-technological integrations to reduce false alarms, so that personnel in an alarm center spend as little time as possible in validating an alarm. Leo Levit. What will be the biggest security trends in 2021? 2021 will see artificial intelligence (AI) become more mainstream. There will be increased deployment in edge devices, including cameras, thermographic cameras, radar and LIDAR sensors, entry point readers, etc. Additional algorithms will be developed, greatly expanding the use and function as video surveillance transitions from a forensic tool to real-time analytics. This increases the value of these systems and helps create ROI cases for their deployment. Tim Brooks. Access control solutions Investments in tools and platforms to drive digital interactions have accelerated" What will be the security industrys biggest challenge in 2021? The security industry is traditional in the sense that it relies heavily on face-to-face interaction to do business with customers and partners alike. COVID-19 has put a hold on in-person meetings, trade shows, etc., and this trend is likely to extend throughout 2021. Virtually recreating these personal touchpoints, while cultivating and strengthening internal and external relationships, will continue to be both a challenge and opportunity for the security industry. Investments in tools and platforms to drive digital interactions have accelerated. Robert Moore. What are the challenges and benefits of mobile access control? Mobile access control solutions are an exciting innovation in a market where the day-to-day user experience hasnt changed much in the last 20 years. One area that has clear benefits and challenges is in improving the user experience. On one hand, physical credentials are expensive and a hassle to administer; however, they work reliably, quickly, and predictably. Mobile credentials are convenient in that everyone already has a smartphone, and you dont have to admin or carry cards; however, when youre actually standing at the door they need to work as well or better than physical credentials, or the benefits are lost. Brian Lohse. Attacking critical infrastructure What are the security challenges of protecting critical infrastructure? It seems so often we hear about a new threat or cyber-attack in the news. Because of the rapid growth in technology over the last few years, cybercriminals are getting bolder and discovering new ways to attack critical infrastructure. One of the biggest challenges boils down to the capabilities of the operating security system and whether the organisation is aware of the current risks they face. Because there are so many points of entry for cybercriminals to target within critical infrastructure, it is vital that the security solution be prepared for attacks at every level. Charles (Chuck) OLeary. They are more aware when they make physical contact with doors and interfaces" Which security technologies will be useful in a post-pandemic world? People have become more sensitised to crowds and personal space. They are more aware when they make physical contact with doors and interfaces. As the pandemic subsides, these habits will likely remain for a majority of people." "Utilising AI-based cameras to accurately monitor the number of people in a room or in a queue will enable staff to take action to improve the customer experience. For example, AI-based analytics can quickly notify security or operations when people are waiting at a door and initiate 2-way audio for touchless access. Aaron Saks. Central monitoring station What is the potential of deep learning in physical security and surveillance? Deep learning, a subset of artificial intelligence, enables networks to train themselves to perform speech, voice, and image recognition tasks." In video surveillance, these networks learn to make predictions through highly repetitive exposure" "In video surveillance, these networks learn to make predictions through highly repetitive exposure to images of humans and vehicles from a camera feed. That ability is ideal for use with drones patrolling perimeters seeking anomalies or in software that significantly reduces the number of false alarms reported to central monitoring station operators. Through use, the software continues improving its accuracy. Brian Baker. Valuable audit trail How soon will access control cards become extinct and why? Access control cards will go the way of the dinosaur, but they still have some life left in them. For the short term, they have plenty of utility in minimum security use cases and leave a valuable audit trail. But for companies that are more technology-centric, particularly those with high value assets, were seeing demand for next-generation access control, which includes increased integration with video surveillance systems and professional monitoring services. Sean Foley. Which security markets are embracing touchless and contactless systems? Touchless technology is not a new trend, but contactless systems and transactions have surged since the COVID-19 pandemic. Even after the pandemic is over, it is likely public perception of what is hygienic and acceptable in public spaces will have changed. [We are] seeing an uptick in touchless access control systems in the education and flexible office space markets. Brooke Grigsby. Recognized as a Top Company for LGBT Employees, Talent Acquisition, Diversity Councils, and Veterans BASF executive Teressa Szelest speaks at the 2019 DiversityInc Top 50 announcement event FLORHAM PARK, N.J., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For the seventh consecutive year, BASF was named one of the Top 50 Companies for Diversity by DiversityInc, moving up five places from 17 in 2018 to 12 in 2019. The list recognizes the top companies for diversity and inclusion management, singling out those with business strategies based on attracting, developing and retaining great talent from all backgrounds and leveraging the power of different perspectives to drive business growth. Companies were honored during the 2019 DiversityInc Top 50 Announcement Event in New York, which featured a fireside chat on the topic of advancing women to the C-suite with Teressa Szelest, President, Market & Business Development at BASF. Being recognized for the seventh consecutive year as one of the top companies for diversity sends a clear message that BASF is committed to being a leader in diversity and inclusion, said Szelest. Inclusion creates a work environment that brings out the best in our teams and subsequently drives innovation and growth. The theme of the 2019 event was advancing the representation of women. During the fireside chat, Szelest drew from her own years of experience in the chemical industry to stress that women and men in leadership roles share responsibility to support women attaining their full potential, including the highest levels in their organizations. DiversityIncs extensive annual survey yields an empirically driven ranking based on talent results in the workforce and management, senior leadership accountability, talent programs, workplace practices, philanthropy and supplier diversity. DiversityInc Top 50 Companies have a decisive advantage because they treat people more fairly than other companies, said Luke Visconti, founder and CEO of DiversityInc. People are far better off working for them because there is more opportunity at better run companies. Top 50 companies also deliver a greater-than-average return for shareholders. To view the entire Top 50 list, visit the DiversityInc website or follow the conversation at #DITop50. About DiversityInc The mission of DiversityInc is to bring education and clarity to the business benefits of diversity. The DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity list began in 2001, when many corporations were beginning to understand the business value of diversity-management initiatives. The 2019 Top 50 Companies for Diversity results will be featured on DiversityInc.com. DiversityInc is a VA certified veteran-owned business and a USBLN certified business owned by a person with a disability. For more information, visit www.diversityinc.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn @DiversityInc. About BASF BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has more than 20,000 employees in North America and had sales of $19.7 billion in 2018. For more information about BASFs North American operations, visit www.basf.com. At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. The approximately 122,000 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 six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of around 63 billion in 2018. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S. Further information at www.basf.com. Media Relations Contact: Donna Jakubowski Phone: 973-245-6260 donna.jakubowski@basf.com To err is human, and that saying doesn't magically become moot just because the stakes are high. That was the message political and legal experts offered to scientists gathered at the International Academy of Astronautics' Planetary Defense Conference , held in College Park, Maryland, last week. The conference was dedicated to discussing planetary defense the art of spotting and, if necessary, diverting asteroids that seem to be on track to hit Earth from a range of perspectives, bringing together asteroid scientists, spacecraft engineers, disaster managers and, yes, political and legal experts. Scientists and engineers know in theory what they could do if an asteroid threatens serious damage to any patch of Earth, depending on how much warning they have. They can send one or more large spacecraft up to block the asteroid's path and slow it enough that it misses its date with Earth. Or they can detonate a nuclear weapon near the asteroid's surface, vaporizing some of the rock and sending the remainder of the body in the opposite direction. Related: A Fake Asteroid Headed to Earth Can Really Make You Think And assuming that they can get good-enough observations of the asteroid, they can do all the math to figure out when to knock it, with how much force, carried on which rockets, launching on what date. What could go wrong? A lot, it turns out! Some of that room for error comes from the simple nature of spaceflight . In a scenario that conference attendees played out with a fictional asteroid, humanity launched six spacecraft to slow the asteroid down and then things went wrong: three spacecraft failed to reach the space rock and one broke it into pieces, the smaller of which was still on track to hit Earth. The intervention saved the original at-risk city of Denver, but simply moved the disaster irrevocably to New York City. (Again, this was a hypothetical scenario . Scientists don't know of any large asteroids more than 460 feet (140 meters) across that could hit Earth in the foreseeable future.) But spacecraft missions not always going according to plan is nothing new. What several of the speakers highlighted instead were the societal factors that could stymie or complicate any attempts to divert an asteroid. First comes the question of who should be able to decide whether to try to divert an asteroid at all. The experts speaking at the conference were vehement that such a decision shouldn't be the purview of just one country. "Just the prospect of having one country saving the whole world obviously carries a lot of geopolitical concerns, a lot of concerns of power," Petr Bohacek of Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, said during a presentation. "As we know from many experiences in the past, good intentions themselves, they are not sources of legitimacy, they are not free of power, they are not free of national interests." Related: This Scientist Is Creating Fictional Asteroids to Save Humanity from Armageddon But there is no international body that fairly incorporates all the countries that could potentially be affected, Bohacek and others emphasized even in the United Nations. The U.N. General Assembly can't make binding decisions and gives each country the same voice regardless of their population or risk. The U.N. Security Council includes only 15 countries and can be swayed by the five permanent members with veto power, and the U.N. Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space only includes spacefaring countries. Let's assume that conundrum was ironed out perhaps, as Cordula Steinkogler of the University of Vienna suggested, by creating far in advance an internationally agreed-upon procedure for handling planetary defense decisions. Steinkogler is a member of a legal committee assembled by the Space Mission Planning Advisory Group , an international group of experts focused on planetary defense. The next challenge would be determining which country or countries will attempt the deflection, presumably from among the spacefaring nations at the time, whether or not those overlap at all with the countries at risk of impact. But because of the way legal regulations and international agreements are currently worded, presenters noted, those countries would have plenty of motivation to leave an asteroid alone. Steinkogler noted that there are no legal obligations explicitly requiring any country to inform people about a hazardous asteroid or to take action about it. There are only general statements about a country's obligation to protect human life within its borders, she added. And there are clauses that may discourage a country from taking action against an asteroid, even if it is predicted to crash within the same country's borders, David Koplow of Georgetown University Law Center, said during his presentation. In particular, the key risk here would come if the action not only failed to deflect the asteroid from hitting Earth, but moved the impact site into another country's territory. At that point, the country or countries behind the mission could have to pay the affected country for the asteroid's damage. "If the harm occurs on the surface of the Earth you are required to pay compensation, even if you have done nothing wrong, even if you've behaved according to the highest standards of technical capability," Koplow said. "Nonetheless, the concept is that space activities are hazardous or ultrahazardous, and therefore the harm should not fall on an innocent bystander if damage is inflicted on the surface of the Earth; the country responsible for doing that activity is liable, even if they've not behaved in any negligent or wrongful fashion." But even if the world comes to an agreement here, too, there's one more knotty issue flagged by the legal and political experts. That comes from one of the tools that humanity could use to deflect an asteroid, nuclear explosive devices. Steinkogler said that the committee she was part of concluded that language within the Outer Space Treaty, a key treaty that has governed space exploration for decades, bans all use of nuclear devices, even those that aren't intended as weapons. Even just talking about nuclear devices as a potential technique for averting an asteroid has international consequences, according to the presenters, since it could convey the impression that nuclear devices are a critical resource to protect citizens. That could easily undermine the principles of non-proliferation, which presume that non-nuclear countries can trust their safety without such devices. All three of these problems as so many facets of other global-scale threats are complicated because there is no global process that is independent of individual countries. "[When it comes to] deciding about global issues, we do not have much of a good track record, whether it's climate change, whether it's other problems," Bohacek said. "The main concept upon which the international system is based is state sovereignty, and that's a concept from the 17th century. "I'm not sure how many concepts from the 17th century you are using for your work, but making political decisions about planetary defense on this dinosaur form of decision-making might not be the best way to deal with that." The ripples in space-time known as gravitational waves have already helped answer major questions regarding the nature of matter and black holes. And upcoming gravitational-wave observatories both on Earth and in space could soon help solve some of the greatest mysteries in science. "We're going to be able to learn a lot about the universe ," said Cole Miller, an astrophysicist at the University of Maryland, College Park. The existence of gravitational waves was first predicted by Albert Einstein in 1916. According to Einstein's theory of general relativity , gravity results from how mass warps space and time. When any object with mass moves, it generates gravitational waves that travel at the speed of light, stretching and squeezing space-time along the way. Related: 'Improved' Gravitational-Wave Detectors Rake in Five Exciting Finds in a Month Gravitational waves are extremely weak, making them extraordinarily difficult to sense, and even Einstein was uncertain whether they really existed and if they would get detected. After decades of work, researchers succeeded in discovering the first direct evidence of gravitational waves in 2015 using the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO). LIGO uses a pair of detectors one in Hanford, Washington, and the other in Livingston, Louisiana to sense the distortions that gravitational waves cause as they move through matter. Each detector is shaped like a gigantic L, with legs about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) long. The legs of each detector are normally the same length, so laser beams take the same amount of time to travel down each. However, if gravitational waves pass through Earth making the detector legs expand and contract by about one-ten-thousandth the diameter of a proton atomic clocks can detect the split-second differences in time it takes for laser beams to zip down one leg of the detector versus the other. Because LIGO's detectors are about 1,865 miles (3,000 km) apart, it can take up to 10 milliseconds for a gravitational wave to cross from one detector to the other. Scientists can use this difference in arrival times to deduce where the gravitational waves come from. As more gravitational-wave detectors come online such as the Virgo facility near Pisa, Italy researchers will get better at pinpointing the sources of gravitational waves. The gravitational waves that LIGO can best detect are the most powerful ones, which are released when extraordinarily massive objects collide with one another. The first gravitational waves LIGO detected were from colliding black holes , and with Virgo, it detected merging neutron stars. These findings have shed light on everything from the nature of gravity to the origin of most of the elements heavier than iron. The immediate future Not only are LIGO and Virgo continuing to sense bursts of gravitational waves, but they are getting upgrades to increase their sensitivity to detect even more events . In addition, other gravitational-wave observatories are coming online soon. Japan has built KAGRA, which is planned to join the LIGO and Virgo network in 2019, and LIGO-India will hopefully be operational by the mid-2020s, Miller said. "More detectors means a better determination of the direction of gravitational-wave sources," Miller told Space.com. Beyond 2025, scientists are discussing two advanced gravitational-wave observatories the Einstein Telescope and the Cosmic Explorer. The plan for the Einstein Telescope is to build it underground to reduce the amount of noise experienced from seismic vibrations, whereas the aim for Cosmic Explorer is to use cryogenic systems to help cut down the noise experienced from heat on its electronics. Decreasing noise in turn boosts sensitivity to gravitational-wave events. The next generation of ground-based gravitational-wave observatories may detect mergers of intermediate-mass black holes, ones that are hundreds to thousands of times more massive than the sun. Previous research suggested that intermediate-mass black holes are the building blocks of the supermassive black holes millions to billions of times the sun's mass found at the hearts of galaxies such as the Milky Way, "but their existence has not yet been conclusively proven," Miller said. Related: 'New Era' of Astrophysics: Why Gravitational Waves Are So Important Space, the final frontier The current and planned ground-based gravitational-wave observatories are all sensitive to wavelengths of about 60 miles (100 km), the kind generated by neutron stars and black holes up to a few dozen times the mass of the sun. However, scientists have long planned space-based gravitational-wave observatories with detectors separated by vast distances that could sense even longer wavelengths, the type released by supermassive black holes. One space-based gravitational-wave observatory under development is the European Space Agency's Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission, scheduled to launch in 2034. LISA will consist of a constellation of three satellites in orbit around the sun and trailing Earth. Inside each satellite is a cube that will fall freely through space, tracing a path that will only get perturbed by gravitational waves. These satellites will carefully monitor the position of each cube to look for signs of space-time ripples. Each of LISA's satellites will be millions of miles away from each other. In principle, LISA will be able to detect gravitational waves with wavelengths of about 18 million miles (30 million km) from the mergers of black holes 10,000 to 10 million times the mass of the sun, Miller said. The hope is that LISA and similar proposed projects, such as TianQin from China, can help shed light on the mergers of galaxies. "We can learn how galaxies and supermassive black holes assemble," Miller said. Related: 8 Baffling Astronomy Mysteries Expect the unexpected However, what scientists are likely most looking forward to with gravitational-wave observatories is the unexpected. "We may see unanticipated types of sources of gravitational waves, or see the sources we generally knew about with twists that might surprise us," Miller said. For example, the hearts of black holes are infinitely dense, infinitely small points known as singularities. And researchers have long suspected that infinitely dense, infinitely thin rings known as cosmic strings might also exist. "If cosmic strings are real, we may be able to detect gravitational waves from them over a broad range of energies," Miller said. In addition, scientists have long suggested the possible existence of primordial black holes, ones born less than a second after the Big Bang , when dense clumps of the newborn universe collapsed under their own gravity. Such black holes would have masses just that of asteroids or planets. "If we saw gravitational waves from something, say, half the mass of the sun, there would be no other way to produce them but primordial black holes," Miller said. Furthermore, some physicists have suggested that black holes may not actually exist. If they do not, then gravitational-wave observatories may discover their actual nature, Miller said. Generally, researchers think most black holes form when massive stars finish burning their fuel and rapidly collapse under their own weight, getting crushed into singularities that are hidden by invisible boundaries known as event horizons from which nothing can return. (The Event Horizon Telescope recently got the first-ever look at one of these points of no return recently, imaging the boundary of the supermassive black hole at the core of the M87 galaxy.) However, the possibility of singularities clashes with laws of physics suggesting that destruction of information is impossible, including information encoded within anything falling into black holes. As such, physicists have suggested that when massive stars die, they may instead form structures with names such as " black stars " and "gravastars." These alternatives resemble black holes in nearly every way but lack singularities and event horizons, sidestepping the conundrums these aspects of black holes raise. One way to find out whether black hole alternatives exist is by analyzing gravitational waves unleashed by what scientists currently think are merging black holes. As black holes spiral toward one another, they should each give off gravitational waves, but their event horizons should absorb those directly falling onto them. However, since black hole alternatives lack event horizons, they can reflect gravitational waves, and gravitational-wave observatories could detect these "echoes," Miller said. If such echoes are discovered, they could yield insights into both general relativity and quantum physics. Doing so could finally help lead to a model of "quantum gravity" marrying both long-disparate theories, Miller added. Miller and his colleague Nicolas Yunes, of Montana State University in Bozeman, detailed this research online April 24 in the journal Nature. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) Senator Aquilino Koko Pimentel, the president of the administration party Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), said he will push for Senate President Vicente Tito Sotto III to stay in his seat. If there is no one [from the party who] is interested in being Senate President, I will push for Sotto, Pimentel told CNN Philippines in a chance interview Wednesday. Pimentel said he does not eye a return to the Senate presidency should he be reelected for another term. He also said that former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Bong Go, the leading PDP-Laban bet in the pre-election surveys, told him that he does not want to be Senate President. Pimentel was at the helm of the Senate at the start of the 17th Congress in June 2016, but resigned in the months leading to the filing of candidacies for senator. He was replaced by Sotto. CONTEXT: Sotto is new Senate President Sotto said in a press briefing that he is ready to step down if any of his colleagues would tell him that they have the required 13 votes to become Senate President. If my peers, my colleagues feel that there should be a new leadership, then I will be very supportive of any new leadership. If they would want to retain the leadership of the Senate, then its a welcome thing, Sotto said. Asked who among his peers has enough leadership skills to become Senate President, Sotto first said Senator Panfilo Ping Lacson and Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, who has served as the leader of the upper house. Sotto later said that anyone in the Senate could become its leader. Under Sottos leadership, the Senate got its highest satisfaction rating in nearly seven years, with 72 percent of Filipinos saying they were satisfied by the performance of the chamber, according to private pollster Social Weather Stations. Not for distribution to the United States Newswire Services or for Dissemination in the United States EDMONTON, Alberta, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Capital Power Corporation (Capital Power or the Company) (TSX: CPX) announced today that it has completed its previously announced public offering of 4.3 million subscription receipts (the Subscription Receipts), on a bought deal basis, at an issue price of $30.30 per Subscription Receipt (the Offering Price), for total gross proceeds of approximately $130,290,000 (the Public Offering). The Public Offering was first announced on April 29, 2019 when the Company entered into an agreement with a syndicate of underwriters (the Underwriters) co-led by RBC Capital Markets and TD Securities. The net proceeds from the Public Offering will be used to partially finance the previously announced acquisition of Goreway Power Station Holdings Inc., which owns the Goreway Power Station, an 875-megawatt natural gas combined cycle generation facility. Goreway Power Station Holdings Inc. is jointly owned by JERA Co. Inc., and Toyota Tsusho Corporation. The purchase price is $387 million in total cash consideration, subject to working capital and other closing adjustments, and the assumption of $590 million of project level debt (the Acquisition). The Acquisition is expected to close in the second quarter of 2019 and is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Each Subscription Receipt will entitle the holder thereof to receive, without payment of additional consideration or further action, upon closing of the Acquisition, one common share of Capital Power (Common Share). In addition, while the Subscription Receipts remain outstanding, holders will be entitled to receive cash payments (Dividend Equivalent Payments) per Subscription Receipt equal to dividends declared by Capital Power on each Common Share. Such Dividend Equivalent Payments will have the same record date as the related Common Share dividend and will be paid to holders of Subscription Receipts concurrently with the payment date of each such dividend. Dividend Equivalent Payments will be paid first out of any interest on the Escrowed Funds (defined below) and then out of the Escrowed Funds. The proceeds from the sale of the Subscription Receipts less one-half of the Underwriters' fee (the Escrowed Funds) will be held in escrow by Computershare Trust Company of Canada, as subscription receipt agent (the Subscription Receipt Agent), and invested in interest-bearing deposits with banks and other financial institutions with issuer credit ratings with S&P Global Ratings, Inc. of at least A (as contemplated by, or specified in, the subscription receipt agreement) or other approved investments as set forth in the subscription receipt agreement, provided that Dividend Equivalent Payments may be made from the Escrowed Funds and the interest credited or received thereon from time to time, as described above. The Subscription Receipts will begin trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol CPX.R. The Company has granted the Underwriters an over-allotment option to purchase, in whole or part, up to an additional 645,000 Subscription Receipts at the Offering Price to cover over-allotments, if any, exercisable at any time and from time to time until the date that is 30 days following the May 8, 2019 closing of the Offering. If the over-allotment option is exercised in full, gross proceeds from the Public Offering will be approximately $149,833,500. All references to dollar amounts contained herein are to Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. U.S. Securities Laws Disclosures NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES. The distribution of this announcement may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions and persons into whose possession any document or other information referred to herein comes should inform themselves about and observe any such restriction. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This announcement does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States, nor may any securities referred to herein be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration as provided in the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), and the rules and regulations thereunder. The securities referred to herein have not been registered pursuant to the Securities Act and there is no intention to register any of the securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of securities in the United States. Forward-looking Information Certain information in this news release is forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws as it relates to anticipated financial or operating performance, events or strategies. When used in this context, words such as "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "estimate", "plan", "intend", "expect", "target" and "will" or similar words suggest future outcomes. By their nature, such statements are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties, which could cause the Company's actual results and experience to be materially different than the anticipated results. Forward-looking information or statements included in this news release are provided to inform the Company's shareholders and potential investors about management's assessment of the Company's future plans and operations. This information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Material forward-looking information in this press release around the acquisition of the Goreway facility includes expectations regarding transaction close timing. These statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, and other factors it believes are appropriate, including its review of the Goreway facility and consultation with an independent third party around market analysis. The material factors and assumptions used to develop these forward-looking statements relate to the anticipated timing of regulatory and third party consents and approvals. Whether actual results, performance or achievements will conform to the Company's expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results and experience to differ materially from the Company's expectations. Such material risks and uncertainties are: (i) power plant availability and performance including maintenance expenditures; (ii) changes in electricity prices in markets in which the Company operates; (iii) regulatory and political environments including changes to environmental, financial reporting and tax legislation; (iv) acquisitions and developments including timing and costs of regulatory approvals and construction; (v) ability to fund current and future capital and working capital needs; (vi) changes in energy commodity market prices and use of derivatives; (vii) changes in market prices and availability of fuel; (viii) changes in general economic and competitive conditions; (ix) the outcome of the line loss rule proceeding; (x) limitations inherent in the Company's review of the Acquisition and the Goreway facility; and (xi) ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Acquisition. See Risk Factors in the Company's prospectus supplement filed in connection with the Public Offering and Risks and Risk Management in the Company's 2018 Management's Discussion and Analysis for further discussion of these and other risks. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the specified approval date. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in the Companys expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. About Capital Power Capital Power (TSX: CPX) is a growth-oriented North American power producer headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. The company develops, acquires, owns, and operates power generation facilities using a variety of energy sources. Capital Power owns approximately 5,100 megawatts (MW) of power generation capacity at 25 facilities across North America. Approximately 900 MW of owned generation capacity is in advanced development in Alberta and Illinois. For more information, please contact : Enough gold, uranium and other heavy elements about equal in mass to all of Earth's oceans likely came to the solar system from the collision of two neutron stars billions of years ago, a new study finds. If the same event were to happen today, the light from the explosion would outshine the entire night sky, and potentially prove disastrous for life on Earth, according to the new study's researchers. Recent findings have suggested that much of the gold and other elements heavier than iron on the periodic table was born in the catastrophic aftermath of colliding neutron stars , which are the ultradense cores of stars left behind after supernova explosions. Related: How Gravitational Waves Led Astronomers to Neutron Star Gold "The first directly detected neutron-star merger happened 130 million light-years away, which may sound like a large distance, but was much closer than anticipated," study lead author Imre Bartos, an astrophysicist at the University of Florida, Gainesville, told Space.com. "This made me and my colleagues think about how close to us such events might happen. Could they happen near the solar system?" The researchers analyzed previous data from ancient meteorites whose origins date back to the early solar system, which formed about 4.6 billion years ago. They focused on traces of radioactive isotopes left in the meteorites that a neutron-star collision would have likely produced. (Isotopes of an element have different numbers of neutrons from each other.) The kind of relatively short-lived radioactive isotopes a neutron-star merger would have generated are no longer present in the solar system. However, previous work deduced what byproducts would have resulted after those isotopes decayed over time. The scientists analyzed the abundances of these byproducts in ancient meteorites in order to deduce when they were created, and thus when their parent isotopes might have entered the solar system. They also developed computer models of the Milky Way to see where a neutron-star collision might have occurred to seed the solar system with these isotopes. The researchers found a vast amount of heavy elements in the solar system likely originated from a single neutron-star collision that occurred about 80 million years before the birth of the solar system. Based on the amount of material from this merger that managed to make it here, they suggested this merger happened about 1,000 light-years from the cloud of gas and dust that eventually formed the solar system. (In comparison, the Milky Way galaxy is about 100,000 light-years in diameter.) "We didn't expect that one event would contribute most of the heavy elements found in the early solar system," Bartos said. This ancient neutron-star merger would have seeded the solar system with about 1.1 billion billion tons (1 billion billion metric tons) of these heavy elements, such that "in each of us, we would find an eyelash worth of these elements, mostly in the form of iodine, which is essential to life," Bartos said in a statement . Other phenomena can generate elements heavier than iron on the periodic table, such as the stellar explosions known as supernovas . However, these would generate different patterns of elements than seen in ancient meteorites, Bartos said. If this neutron-star merger were to happen today at the same distance from Earth, the researchers found that at the very least "it would be brighter than all the night sky put together as bright as the crescent moon, squeezed into one point," Bartos said. "It would be bright enough to be seen during daytime, brighter than anything but the sun. It would have lasted about a week." However, if Earth had the misfortune to face either pole of the black hole that resulted from this neutron-star collision, it would prove a disaster. Soon after the merger occurred, a giant explosion known as a gamma-ray burst would erupt from the poles of the newborn black hole. Although it would last only about a second, "the gamma-ray burst would emit more energy than the sun will radiate during its entire lifetime," Bartos said. If the gamma-rays from such an outburst were to hit Earth, they would get absorbed by the upper atmosphere, generating ultraviolet rays. "A nearby gamma-ray burst would result in a mass extinction," Bartos said. "Luckily, neutron-star mergers only happen roughly every 100,000 years in the Milky Way, and ones that happen nearby do so less often, so we are not in any immediate danger in any way." The scientists now want to investigate how often neutron-star mergers occurred in the past in the Milky Way "and understand how they influenced the evolution of the galaxy," Bartos said. Bartos and his colleague Szabolcs Marka at Columbia University in New York detailed their findings online May 1 in the journal Nature. Think robots are all square corners and rigid metal parts? Think again. Two interns at NASA are part of a larger group working on "soft robots" that could be used for exploring worlds beyond Earth. This includes the moon, NASA's next major destination for astronauts. The advantage of a soft robot is that it's flexible and, in some ways, better able to adapt to new environments. Soft robots move in ways similar to living organisms, which expands their range of motion, perhaps making it easier to squeeze into a tight spot, for example. Related: Top 10 Space Robot 'Selfies' (Gallery) Interns Chuck Sullivan and Jack Fitzpatrick are working at NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, to create soft robot actuators. (Actuators are machine components that control a robot's moving parts.) "When you actuate the soft robot, it changes how you use the material properties," Fitzpatrick said in a statement . "A piece of rubber going from flat to the shape of a finger, it changes the material into something else." Researchers at NASA's Langley Research Center are developing soft robot actuators from 3D-printed flexible silicone molds to study how "soft robots" can be used for space exploration. (Image credit: Gary Banzinger/NASA) The design is early stage and not nearly space-ready, but the interns are trying to see how these actuators could be used in a real space mission. Sullivan and Fitzpatrick build the actuators by 3D-printing a mold and then pouring it into silicone or another type of flexible substance. "By design, the actuator has chambers, or air bladders, that expand and compress based on the amount of air in them," NASA said in the statement. "Currently, these two interns are operating the design through a series of tubes in the air bladders, allowing them to control the movement of the robot. By adjusting the amount of air in the chamber of the soft robotic actuator, the robot can flex and relax, just like a human muscle." In particular, the interns are investigating four key properties of the actuators mobility, joining, leveling and shaping and how to use them in space exploration. Mobility refers to how the soft robot moves in its environment , while joining concerns how robots can link together (for example, to make a large temporary shelter). Leveling refers to how actuators can create a surface, such as filling in space underneath a lunar habitat, while shaping examines ways of adding strength to materials like dust shields. "We see these four things as the crux of the problem. Once we can accomplish those in individual unit tests, we would like to figure out ways to combine them, so maybe we combine mobility and joining," Sullivan said in the same statement. Both interns are working with principal investigator and computer engineer James Neilan, as well as co-principal investigator and aerospace research engineer Matt Mahlin, who together created this intern project at NASA's Langley Research Center to examine how well soft robots would work in space. This month, researchers and robotics experts from around the country will visit Langley to give the interns feedback on their soft robotics, and the students will continue to make improvements throughout the summer, NASA added. SpinLaunch CEO Jonathan Yaney (left), Spaceport America CEO Dan Hicks (center) and New Mexico Economic Development Department Secretary Alicia Keyes mark the start of construction on a $7 million SpinLaunch test facility on May 7, 2019. SpinLaunch has begun building the facility where it will test out its radical new satellite-lofting strategy. The company broke ground yesterday (May 7) at Spaceport America in New Mexico, marking the start of construction on a $7 million flight-test facility. And this will be no ordinary launch pad. SpinLaunch is developing a kinetic-energy-based system that will fling small spacecraft skyward without firing up a rocket engine (though traditional chemical propulsion does come into play later in the flight). Related: Photos: Take a Tour of Spaceport America If all goes according to plan, SpinLaunch will eventually be able to loft satellites cheaply and rapidly up to five times per day, at about $250,000 a pop, company representatives have said. "SpinLaunch, with its new configuration to employ kinetic energy, is truly one of the most exciting new ventures to enter the space industry, and we are excited to be part of their growth and in turn enable the growth of the small-satellite market," Spaceport America CEO Dan Hicks said in a statement yesterday. Hicks attended yesterday's groundbreaking, as did SpinLaunch founder and CEO Jonathan Yaney and New Mexico Economic Development Department Secretary Alicia Keyes. "We are excited to be developing our first flight test site at Spaceport America," Yaney said in the same statement. "The commercial space market is expected to grow to a trillion-dollar industry within the decade, and this new agreement with Spaceport America will expedite our ability to service that emerging market." SpinLaunch has leased 10 acres (4 hectares) on the spaceport's grounds. SpinLaunch was founded in 2014. Last year, the California-based company snagged $40 million in "Series A" investment, the financing round that follows initial "seed capital." That funding came from some heavy hitters, including Airbus Ventures, GV (formerly Google Ventures) and Kleiner Perkins. SpinLaunch has historically been tight-lipped about its technology and its plans. Its website, for example, consists of a link to a 2018 press release about the Series A haul, two news stories related to that release, contact information and some job listings. But this bare-bones portal is a font of information compared to the site's previous iteration, which was password-protected. So, SpinLaunch may be coming out of stealth mode a bit. Indeed, the company attached a fact sheet to the press release highlighting yesterday's groundbreaking, providing some details not found on the company website. (This release was emailed out, or we'd link to it.) This fact sheet lays out the envisioned launch cost and frequency, for instance, and states that SpinLaunch aims to loft its first payload by 2022. And we get the following description of the launch system: "SpinLaunch utilizes existing technology and components from oil/gas/mining and wind turbine industries to construct an innovative mass-acceleration system, which achieves very high launch speeds without the need for enormous power generation or massive infrastructure. After ascending above the atmosphere, a relatively small, low-cost onboard rocket will be used to provide the final required velocity for orbital insertion. Because the majority of the energy required to reach orbit is sourced from ground-based electricity, as opposed to complex onboard rocket propulsion, total launch cost is reduced by an order of magnitude over existing launch systems." Hopefully, we'll get more information as SpinLaunch advances its technology and preps for test flights. Stay tuned! A Nazi Critic and a Gestapo Spy 'You Can't Report Your Own Father!' The Gestapo spy Paul Reckzeh denounced a group of Nazi critics in Berlin and two of them were executed. Irmgard Ruppel was the last survivor of the group, and in an interview five decades later, she told the story of what happened. STAMFORD The Board of Education this week discussed potential ways to pay down this years projected $2.17 million deficit but has not yet come to conclusions about closing the gap. Superintendent Tamu Lucero told board members Tuesday her administration has not finished a plan to eliminate the deficit, which she called a moving target, by the state-mandated deadline of June 30, when all education boards must end the fiscal year without a deficit. Freezing overtime and returning to the Board of Finance for appropriations for school energy funds are two ways the school administration is working to curtail the deficit, Lucero said, adding that even with the those measures the district still needs to find $1.2 million to balance the budget. Board President Andy George suggested deferring parts of the deficit to next year, a strategy that would roll this years obligations into the next school year. It will have an effect on next year, but it will get us through this year without necessarily having to go back to other boards for supplemental appropriations, George said. Board member Jackie Pioli said she did not approve of the idea, adding the board should take responsibility for its financial decisions. I want to make sure we have a procedure in place that this never happens again, Pioli said. Our students are losing field trips, theyre losing supplies, were taking this away from them right now. Lucero said shes working to ensure the district never has a deficit this large again and formed a fiscal oversight committee that will meet weekly to look at every budget line and certify the district is spending in a fiscally responsible manner. I saw my parents this weekend and I think Im their child who has been fiscally responsible since she graduated from college and never asked them for another dime, so I take this very seriously, Lucero said. Board member Betsy Allyn said shes was OK with some deferment but, along with Betsy Allyn, called for a third party audit of the boards budget and asked if they as board members could be held personally liable for the deficit if the Board of Finance decides not to appropriate additional funds to cover the deficit. In a sense they cant say no, George said. This is extraordinary proof to other boards to stop cutting the budget, said board member Nicola Tarzia, adding hes OK with deferment but wants a higher education budget in future years to prevent against continued deficits. The board will continue discussing reducing the deficit at its Fiscal Committee meeting in two weeks, George said. Also Tuesday, the board turned its attention to discussion of next years operating budget of $283 million that passed the Board of Representatives last week. Representatives trimmed $750,000 on top of the $2.6 million reduction passed by the Board of Finance, which means the school board has to cut from items it originally listed in next years spending plan. Allyn and Pioli suggested cuts to athletics staff and programs. Im very concerned were making some cuts that are directly impacting our children within our classrooms and maybe we can go another year without an upgraded scoreboard, Allyn said. The cuts include diminished money for staff professional development, science kits and three math support staff. Lucero said the board should take three bites at the apple before deciding on a final plan for budget reallocation and said the board will need to have a conversation about staffing cuts in order to meet the budget demands. The board will next discuss budget reallocation at its meeting on Monday. svaughan@hearstmediact.com; 203-842-2638; @SophieCVaughan1 STAMFORD People who grabbed an Uber here this year likely were headed for the mall, a South End restaurant, or a downtown hotel. Ride-sharing service Uber has released a list of its most popular destinations in the city for 2018, and the Stamford Town Center on Greyrock Place came in at No. 1. It was followed by Sign of the Whale, a restaurant in the Harbor Point development, and the Sheraton Stamford Hotel on East Main Street. No. 4 on the list was Brother Jimmy's BBQ, a Bedford Street restaurant with the slogan, Put Some South in Yo Mouth. Target department store on Broad Street, which is part supermarket, was No. 5. After that comes five restaurants The Cheesecake Factory on Tresser Boulevard, attached to the mall; Brick House Bar & Grill on Bedford Street; Hudson Grille on Bedford Street; Barcelona Wine Bar on Summer Street; and Tigin Irish Pub on Bedford Street. The list shows Uber users in Stamford usually head downtown nine of the top-10 destinations are there. Uber, founded in San Francisco in 2009, annually releases its most common ride destinations, and this year included Stamford. Use has increased markedly in Stamford since the company launched the service here in 2014. In 2016, the company started UberEATS, offering food delivery from more than three dozen Stamford restaurants, which pay the company a fee per delivery. The same year, Uber began to offer a scheduled-ride service. It allows users to book trips 30 minutes to 30 days in advance. Last year, Uber opened Connecticuts first resource center for drivers on West Avenue in Stamford. The company this week released destination data for another Connecticut city, Hartford. That list is similar to Stamfords in that it was dominated by restaurants and stores. The top trips for Uber riders in Hartford were to Walmart, the University of Hartford, and a mall. The rest included three restaurants, a hospital, and one of the citys big insurance companies. Uber also put out a wider-ranging list riders top-10 tourist destinations around the globe. The first two were in New York the Empire State Building and the Freedom Tower followed by the CN Tower in Toronto. Next came two Paris destinations, the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, followed by Dubais Burj Khalifa, the worlds tallest skyscraper. Dubai is such a sightseeing destination that it also has UberChopper, a helicopter ride service. Londons Buckingham Palace was No. 7 on the tourist list, followed by Disneyland in California, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and the Sydney Opera House in Australia. Uber operates in more than 600 cities worldwide. The United States is its biggest market, according to the companys website. Users usually order a car from an app on their cellphones. The app displays a map showing the user where the Uber car is waiting. Payment is electronic. According to Ubers website, four types of service are offered. A regular ride starts at $6. For a group, it starts at $9. The fare for a ride in a luxury car starts at $12, and for a luxury SUV, $14. Besides the flat fee, users are charged a cost per minute. As an example, a person headed to the Stamford mall from the middle of Hope Street in Springdale, the citys geographic center, would cost $10 to $13 for the basic service. Its a trip of 3.5 miles that usually takes 14 minutes, according to Ubers website. The higher-level services would range from $15 to $34. In Connecticut and elsewhere, taxi companies have fought Uber, Lyft and similar services with lawsuits and by lobbying legislatures, saying their industry is heavily regulated but ride-sharing companies were allowed to operate without rules. Last year, Connecticuts General Assembly passed a law that requires ride-sharing companies to register annually with the state Department of Transportation; obtain background checks on drivers and ban those with certain criminal convictions; provide identification for drivers and cars; post fares, including the ones that spike when demand is high; certify vehicles for safety; and obtain insurance. acarella@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2296. MIDDLETOWN Staff, faculty and parents of St. John II Regional Catholic School are lauding the accomplishment of 50 percent of students who were chosen at the Connecticut Invention Convention to move on to nationals. Under the guidance of middle school science teacher Tara Serio, six young people participated. They were among more than 1,200 competing for recognition. Four were honored with the recognized inventor award, according to a press release. DENVER, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DCP Midstream, LP (NYSE: DCP) (the Partnership) announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, DCP Midstream Operating, LP (the Operating Partnership), has commenced a public offering of $500 million aggregate principal amount of its senior notes due 2029, which will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed by the Partnership. The Operating Partnership intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for general partnership purposes, including the repayment of indebtedness under its revolving credit facility and the funding of capital expenditures. Citigroup Global Markets Inc., MUFG Securities Americas Inc., TD Securities (USA) LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Mizuho Securities USA LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC and SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc. are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering. PNC Capital Markets LLC, SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc., U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. and BB&T Capital Markets, a division of BB&T Securities, LLC, are acting as co-managers for the offering. The senior notes are being offered and will be sold pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement that was previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). This offering is being made only by means of a prospectus and related prospectus supplement. Before you invest, you should read the preliminary prospectus supplement and accompanying base prospectus in the registration statement for more complete information about this offering. When available, copies of these documents may be obtained from any of the underwriters by contacting: Citigroup Global Markets Inc. c/o Broadridge Financial Solutions by mail at 1155 Long Island Avenue, Edgewood, NY, 11717, or by email at prospectus@citi.com ; MUFG Securities Americas Inc. by mail at 1221 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, NY, 10020 Attn: Capital Markets Group, or by phone at (877) 649-6848; or TD Securities (USA) LLC by mail at 31 West 52nd Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY, 10019 Attn: Debt Capital Markets Syndicate. You may also obtain these documents free of charge by visiting the SECs website at www.sec.gov . This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. DCP Midstream, LP (NYSE: DCP) is a Fortune 500 midstream master limited partnership headquartered in Denver, Colorado, with a diversified portfolio of gathering, processing, logistics and marketing assets. DCP is one of the largest natural gas liquids producers and marketers and one of the largest natural gas processors in the U.S. The owner of DCPs general partner is a joint venture between Enbridge and Phillips 66. This press release includes forward-looking statements as defined under the federal securities laws, including statements regarding the intended use of offering proceeds and other aspects of the senior notes offering. Although management believes that expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to be correct. In addition, these statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other assumptions that are difficult to predict and may be beyond the control of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership, including market conditions, customary offering closing conditions and other factors described in the base prospectus and accompanying prospectus supplement for the offering. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the actual results of the Partnership or the Operating Partnership may vary materially from what management anticipated, estimated, projected or expected. Investors are encouraged to closely consider the disclosures and risk factors contained in the Partnerships annual and quarterly reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission and in the base prospectus and related prospectus supplement for the senior notes offering. The statements herein speak only as of the date of this press release. The Partnership undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. DCP Midstream, LP Investor Relations: Irene Lofland (303) 605-1822 Source: DCP Midstream, LP Just one dose of CBD helped mice and rats experience acute antidepressant effects due to increased levels of proteins in their brains medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. In other words, it made the mice feel much less behavioral despair when put through certain tests. Thats the findings of a study published this year in the journal Molecular Neurobiology by researchers from the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil and Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark. They are using CBD in animal studies as a first step toward eventual human tests. The researchers wrote, The main finding of the present study is that CBD induces not only a robust acute, but also sustained, antidepressant-like effect in different species and distinct animal models. Related: Is CBD Better Than Big Pharma? Patients Seem to Think So. Why study CBD for depression? Why put mice and rats through tests with CBD? Research into CBDs impact on depression has been driven, in part, by the desire to find alternatives to prescription drugs. While effective in many cases, those who take drugs for depression risk a number of side effects. According to Web MD, some of the common side effects from antidepressant drugs include: Nausea Increased appetite and weight gain Loss of sexual desire Erectile dysfunction Decreased orgasm Fatigue and drowsiness Insomnia Blurred vision Constipation Agitation Irritability Anxiety Thats a long list. Researchers also noted that currently available antidepressants have a substantial time lag to induce therapeutic response and a relatively low efficacy. The development of drugs that addresses these limitations is critical to improving public health. Related: Move Aside, CBD: New Data Finds THC Is the Real Medicine in Medical Marijuana Findings of the study. The study put mice and rats through various tests after receiving a dose of CBD. They included forced swimming tests (FST), which involves placing the animals in a container filled with water. The FST is based on the assumption that animals will make efforts to escape but eventually exhibit immobility that researchers assume reflects behavioral despair. It also exposes animals to stress, which has been shown to contribute to depression. The FST test and others found that the animals showed less depressed behavior, perhaps due to increased levels of proteins and the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. They also found that the effect happened quickly. Related: CBD Has Gone Mainstream: What's Next? Previous studies had similar findings. In 2014, a study led by researchers at the Laboratory of Panic and Respiration at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro acknowledged some of these issues and conducted a study involving mice. The 2014 study, which also involved mice, went into detail on depression and how it manifests. Researchers wrote that depressed patients present symptoms such as mood changes, apathy, lack of ability to feel pleasure, increased levels of irritability, prostration, cognitive and psychomotor changes and changes in appetite and sleep regimen. They found that CBD interacted in a positive way with the serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is believed to impact a person's emotional state and feelings of well-being or happiness. Much like the new study, researchers in the 2014 study also found that CBD exhibited an anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects in animal models. Follow dispensaries.com on Instagram to stay up to date on the latest cannabis news. Related: Early Research Is Hopeful About CBD and Depression CBD Has Gone Mainstream: What's Next? Is CBD Better Than Big Pharma? Patients Seem to Think So. Copyright 2019 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved The House Judiciary Committee has voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, escalating the legal battle with the Trump administration over access to special counsel Robert Mueller's report. The committee voted 24-16 to hold Barr in contempt after the Justice Department rejected House Democrats' demands for the full Mueller report and the underlying evidence. Ahead of the vote, President Donald Trump asserted executive privilege over those materials and reserved the right to block them. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler said his panel will receive testimony from Mueller because "we will subpoena him if we have to." When asked if the committee was going to hear from Mueller now that Trump has asserted executive privilege, Nadler said, "eventually we will hear from Mueller because ... we will subpoena him if we have to." "The nonsense claim of executive privilege will be pierced by the court and he'll be ordered to testify," Nadler said. "I certainly hope it doesn't come to the, to our necessity to subpoena him," he added. Nadler previously subpoenaed Barr to require that he hand over a full, unredacted version of the Mueller report, including the underlying evidence. The Justice Department missed the deadline for the subpoena that the committee issued last month. Barr sent a letter to the president dated Wednesday requesting he assert executive privilege with respect to the documents the committee subpoenaed. The attorney general, after testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee, skipped a scheduled hearing before the House Judiciary Committee the next day, following a dispute with House Democrats over whether Barr would publicly face questions from committee staff attorneys. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a sudden, unscheduled trip to Baghdad on Tuesday as U.S. officials warned that Iran was positioning missiles that could be used against American forces in the region. Pompeo's surprise visit came on the eve of the first anniversary of President Donald Trump's withdrawal from a landmark nuclear agreement with Iran. Washington and Tehran have been exchanging increasingly belligerent rhetoric as the day approaches. The Pentagon has ordered the deployment of an aircraft carrier and Air Force bombers in the Persian Gulf while warning of the threat posed by small Iranian boats suspected of carrying missiles. Pompeo's decision to break away from a European trip for the Middle East was cloaked in secrecy for security reasons. He abruptly canceled a visit to Germany, where he was scheduled to meet with Chancellor Angela Merkel and Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, with the State Department initially saying only that "pressing issues" had arisen. After flying out of Baghdad late at night, Pompeo said he had told Iraqi President Barham Salih and Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi that they are responsible for protecting Americans in their country and briefed them on intelligence suggesting Iran is posing a greater threat. "We wanted to let them know about the increased threat stream that we had seen and give them a little bit more background on that so they could ensure that they were doing all they could to provide protection for our team," Pompeo told reporters. "They understood, too, it's important for their country. We don't want anyone interfering in their country . . . and there was complete agreement." About 5,000 U.S. troops are based in Iraq, and the United States maintains a large diplomatic presence. Pompeo and national security adviser John Bolton have both warned that Iran or its proxy militias could be planning an attack on the U.S. forces or U.S. interests, though they have provided few details. Defense officials said the intelligence that sparked their concern included imagery of containers on the deck of at least one dhow, a sailing vessel, which were believed to contain assembled ballistic missiles from Iran. Officials were unsure of the intended purpose for the suspected missiles, but they saw it as a worrying departure from Iran's previous steps to smuggle disassembled missile parts into Yemen. U.S. officials have long accused Iran of delivering disassembled missiles by sea and overland into Yemen, where they have been reassembled for use by Houthi rebels. While flying to Iraq, Pompeo said his trip was prompted by reports of escalation in Iranian activity. Iraq and Iran are neighbors and maintain cordial relations. "I wanted to go to Baghdad to speak with the leadership there, to assure them that we stood ready to continue to ensure that Iraq is a sovereign, independent nation," he said. Pompeo said he would assure officials in Baghdad that the United States would continue to support Iraqi security forces and urge them to pursue energy deals with Jordan and Egypt to reduce the country's dependence on the Iranian electrical grid. The Trump administration is expected to impose more sanctions on Tehran, which is already weighed down by some of the harshest penalties ever. U.S. officials say their strategy is designed to get the Islamic republic to end its support for militant groups in the region and cease testing missiles. Iran in turn has said it will protect itself from "economic terrorism." Pompeo has stopped short of calling for regime change. But his list of 12 demands aiming to get Iran to act like a "normal nation" is so uncompromising that experts say there is little chance of Iran's relenting. Iranian officials have said they are reconsidering full cooperation with the landmark nuclear agreement with six world powers in response to the Trump administration's pressure campaign, though any action would be short of a complete withdrawal. President Hassan Rouhani is expected to announce a decision Wednesday. Pompeo said he had talked by phone with Trump on Monday night, when Pompeo was still in Finland for a meeting of the Arctic Council. "The central messages are this," he said. "We want to make sure that Iraq is positioned so that the relationship that we've built with them and that our allies in the region have built with them - allies that range all across the gulf, who understand that the primary threat in the Middle East is Iran - remains strong, that those relationships remain strong." Iraq poses a dilemma for the State Department because it hosts so many U.S. troops while continuing to do business with Iran and meeting with Iranian officials on diplomatic visits. Iraq is one of the few countries that still have a State Department waiver from sanctions, allowing it to keep purchasing electricity from Iran. Iraq has a number of Shiite militia groups, backed and trained by Iran, that have criticized the U.S. designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, an elite branch of Iran's military, as a terrorist organization. The Persian Gulf includes critical sea lanes for oil shipments, particularly at the Strait of Hormuz. As U.S. sanctions have dried up many markets for Iran's oil, Tehran has threatened to close the strait. When Bahrain objected, an Iranian official responded: "Mind your small size and do not threaten someone bigger than yourself." The White House announced Sunday that the USS Abraham Lincoln, traveling with a fleet of escort ships, was en route to the Middle East. The Navy aircraft carrier already was due to "spend a significant amount of time" in the region but will now arrive earlier than initially planned, the Pentagon said in a statement. - - - The Washington Post's Dan Lamothe contributed to this report. South Korea said President Donald Trump supports the donation of food to North Korea through a U.N. agency, as the top U.S. envoy noted the regime's growing impatience with sputtering nuclear talks. Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in -- who has tried to serve as a bridge between the U.S. president and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un -- spoke Tuesday about North Korea's weekend weapons test and reviving nuclear talks that broke down when Trump abruptly ended a summit with Kim in Hanoi in February. Since then, North Korea has raised tensions with threats and military provocations. "The two heads of state exchanged opinions of the recently announced report on North Korea's food situation from the World Food Program and the Food and Agriculture Organization, in which President Trump said that South Korea providing North Korea food supply is very well-timed, and expressed his support, calling it a positive measure," Moon's office said after their call late Tuesday. The White House said the two discussed recent developments with North Korea and "how to achieve the final, fully verified denuclearization" of the country. Its brief statement didn't mention the food aid. North Korea battles chronic food shortages and has seen previous donations of humanitarian assistance from the U.S. and South Korea as goodwill gestures. But government officials have been cautious with their largess, seeking to make sure aid goes to needy civilians and is not diverted to the state's war machine. The U.S.'s special envoy for North Korea, Stephen Biegun, told a senior Japanese lawmaker Wednesday at the start of a visit to Tokyo and Seoul that the weekend weapons test was a sign of impatience after the U.S. rejected Kim's demands to end sanctions choking his state's economy, Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported. The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo declined comment. Moon -- seeking closer ties with Pyongyang -- has been keen to revive economic projects with North Korea, but has been blocked by the international sanctions vice that was tightened after Kim tested nuclear bombs and intercontinental ballistic missiles in 2016 and 2017. South Korea cancelled a planned donation about two years ago due to the tests, but the U.S. signaled a softening at the end of last year, when the State Department said it was looking at relaxing curbs on humanitarian aid. The U.S. and South Korea have played down the significance of the weekend test and have not confirmed the analysis of weapons experts who said the operation included the launch of a short-range ballistic missile, which would be in violation of international sanctions resolutions and complicate Trump's and Moon's negotiations with Pyongyang. Moon's office said in the two leaders agreed that their reactions to Saturday's launches were "effective." According to the United Nation's World Food Program, one of the few international humanitarian groups operating in reclusive North Korea, about 40 percent of the population is undernourished, adding "food insecurity and malnutrition are widespread." The U.S. and South Korea have previously donated food through the WFP for North Korea. On Saturday, May 11, the Bruce Museum will open Summer with the Averys [Milton | Sally | March] featuring landscapes, seascapes, beach scenes and figural compositions, along with rarely seen travel sketchbooks that offers an innovative look at the work produced by the Avery family. Along with canonical paintings by Milton Avery, the show offers a unique opportunity to become acquainted with the art created by Averys wife Sally and their daughter March. As it was for many artists before and since, summertime was a moment of heightened creativity for the Averys. Escaping from their hectic lives in New York, the three artists were inspired by these bucolic and sometimes unfamiliar settings. The art they produced including oil paintings, watercolors, drawings and prints was filled with the splendor of nature and the sociability of family, friends and acquaintances; the work ranges from the representational to the nearly abstract. The exhibition is organized by Kenneth E. Silver, Silver Professor of Art History at New York University and Bruce Museum Adjunct Curator of Art, assisted by Stephanie Guyet, Bruce Museum Zvi Grunberg Fellow 2018-19. Silver recently provided further insights about the exhibition in a conversation with Bruce Museum Communications Director Scott Smith: How unusual is it to organize an exhibition around not only a major artist but also the work of his family? Is this a first for you as a curator? KS: I dont recall ever curating a show around a family of artists before. For one thing, there arent that many artist families in the history of art. There are the Wyeths, of course, and the Bruegels, the Flemish family of artists. Closer to home, we have the Ochtmans of the Cos Cob art colony. Surely there are more such families and who have had shows, but this is new for me. I was intrigued by the idea of trying to figure out, well, how do you present a family? The challenge of this exhibition is that it spans almost a century of time and it follows three people all over the American map and even to a few places outside our borders. It was exciting to see how we could weave these stories together. When we discovered there were a lot of wonderful photos of the Averys on vacation that we could also trace the familys life aside from the familys artmaking that brought another compelling element to the show. It made sense, and I think the documentary photographs add to the story. Summer with the Averys isnt just about the objects; its also about how the interactions of the family members bring these objects about. And because so many people associate summer vacation time with family photos, I think those photographs and the sketchbooks are going to be interesting and appropriate additions to the show. How did you come up with the idea of the familys working summer vacations as the focus of the exhibition? Ill be honest: Ive done summer before, most recently for the Bruce in 2017 with Spring into Summer with Andy Warhol and Friends. Theres something about seeing the word summer that is always exciting, at least it is to me. In some ways its the obvious, because lets face it, by the time you get through winter, people are ready for spring and excited by the prospect of summer. Its also logical because, for the Averys, summer really was a kind of laboratory for the family. Summer was when the Averys did their research, you might say. They went away for months at a time, every single summer, even when they had no money. Milton and Sally met during the summer, in Gloucester, Mass., so their life together begins during a working summer vacation, and then they continue those working vacations for the rest of their married life. And as youll see in the show, March Avery carried on that family tradition for many years. You write in the catalogue, A process was put in place whereby each of the media was clearly associated with a specific moment in time and place Finally, back home in the New York City studio, oil painting represented a grand synthesis, the passage of time and physical relocation resulting (presumably) in a sublime distillation of the two earlier processes. So, while this exhibition has a specific temporal focus Summer with the Averys how does it also reflect the sublime distillation that takes place over years? I can think of two Milton Avery works that best represent that process. The first, which youll see early in the show, is a work called Sea Gazers, lent to the Bruce by the Whitney Museum of American Art. It was painted in 1956, in Gloucester, where the Averys met in the 20s and went back numerous times over the years. So that picture represents, really, at least three decades of looking at that same scene from all different kinds of angles. I think what you can feel about that painting is that it is a kind of calm, beautiful distillation of everything hes thought and felt about the beach and the islands at Gloucester over those many summers. The other Milton Avery work I would put in that category is Swimmers and Sunbathers, from 1945, and on loan from The Metropolitan Museum of Art. This work also has this quality of Milton having distilled summer scenes of his wife and daughter sitting by the water into a grand synthesis of everything hes thought about the subject. He used them as characters in his art just as Sally often used Milton as a model in her art. We seem to be in the midst of a cultural moment, one in which the lives and careers of women and wives and others who have been long overlooked, are getting newfound respect and attention. Can you speak to that? I cant say I went into this with the self-conscious idea that I would do a show about the Avery women. The concept arose from discussions I had with [private dealer] Michael Klein. I mean, I knew of Sally Avery as an artist, and Id heard of March Avery, but I was completely unaware that she also was an artist, let alone that she was alive and well and still active as a painter. The discovery of Sally and March as artists was exciting. Nonetheless as an art historian, I have to say, its not just that you make a cultural moment, your cultural moment makes you. Once I recognized that there was not just one woman in this story, but two, the approach seemed natural. After we went to visit with March, and saw more of Sallys works in the flesh, I soon realized that they were both gifted artists, and that it would be very exciting to have all three Averys represented. And, certainly, I think people are very interested nowadays to see the works of artists, particularly women, who have been neglected by the history of art. The work of Sally Avery and that of her daughter March will be discoveries for many visitors to the exhibition. What new insights into Milton Avery do you think this exhibition will reveal? The biggest surprise is what a great draftsman Milton Avery is. Thats certainly the single greatest takeaway for me. Milton is an extraordinary draftsman. He can draw in many different styles, and his skill is tremendous, and, like Sally and like March, he drew constantly. Weve got lots of beautiful Milton Avery drawings in this show, and I think people dont know Milton Averys drawings like they know his paintings. I think people are going to be quite thrilled to see what a remarkable draftsmen he is. Youve been assisted by Stephanie Guyet, the Museums Zvi Grunberg Fellow 2018-19, in organizing this exhibition. How would you characterize that collaborative process? Having Stephanie on board as the Assistant Curator of this show has been of immense benefit. Its been extremely important. First of all, having a very smart, sensitive assistant means there is a sounding board for ideas about specific works. Through this process, she has become an expert in the art of March, and included in the catalogue is a marvelous interview that Stephanie did with her. What she also brought to the project is the fact that she is a woman, a wife, a mother, and a daughter. All the things that I cant talk about, except as an outsider. I think that particular set of perspectives really enriched the project. We would talk a lot about the relationships, between Milton and Sally, between March and her parents, and I think Stephanie was key to my understanding much more fully what the life of a woman in the art world might be, and Im tremendously grateful and think the show is enriched by that insight. Do you take working summer vacations? Are you as productive as the Averys? Im not an artist, so I dont do a working vacation like an artist does. But I will say this: When I do find myself in a location like the Averys sought out, which is to say a beautiful place, somewhere in the country in the mountains or by the seashore there is an element of a working vacation on my travels, to the extent to which an art historian is constantly seeing the world through the eyes of the artists they study. Im so steeped in the history of images of certain places, I do find myself looking at scenes and seeing them through the eyes of a Cezanne, a Monet, Matisse, or a Milton Avery. And thats a good way to look at the world Summer with the Averys [Milton | Sally | March] will be accompanied by an audio guide and a scholarly catalogue, featuring full-color illustrations of all the works in the show. Educational programming will include a Curators Conversation on May 30, 6-8 p.m., with Silver, Guyet, and Barbara Haskell, esteemed curator at the Whitney Museum of American Art and Milton Avery authority. Seats may be reserved at brucemuseum.org. The exhibition closes on September 1. The Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Drive in Greenwich. Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm; closed Mondays and major holidays. $10, $8 for seniors and students with ID, and free for members and children less than five years. Individual admission is free on Tuesday. Free on-site parking is available and the Museum is accessible to individuals with disabilities. For additional information, call the Bruce Museum at 203-869-0376. WASHINGTON - The White House is renewing a contentious battle over legal immigration, looking beyond toughened enforcement policies and President Donald Trump's push for a border wall to dive into the thorny issue of how many - and what kind of - immigrants should be admitted into the United States. Trump met privately with 12 GOP senators Tuesday as the administration - led primarily by Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law and senior adviser - drafts a proposal to transform the existing system into one that prioritizes immigrants based on their ability to immediately contribute to the economy. But with little support among Democrats for such a dramatic overhaul, few expect any substantial changes this year to the current laws granting green cards and temporary worker visas - leaving the effort as primarily a political document that Trump and Republicans can rally behind. "The White House has already said we're moving in the direction of trying to make a proposal about something the president can be for on immigration," Sen. David Perdue, R-Ga., said. "The perception is he's against this, or we're against that. And that's not the truth." Kushner is pitching an overhaul to the legal immigration system that wouldn't change the overall number of green cards issued per year, according to Senate Republicans briefed on the matter, but it would ensure that a significantly larger proportion is set aside for immigrants based on their professional skills and education backgrounds, rather than on family ties. Senators expect the administration's new immigration plan to address border security and visa overstays in some fashion, but not the 11 million immigrants who are in the country illegally. Republicans in touch with the White House in recent weeks also said the administration has looked at modernizing the visa system for temporary guest workers, such as farmworkers and hospitality employees, and tightening asylum policy so fewer migrants trying to claim refuge in the United States would qualify. But changing asylum policy and temporary guest worker programs barely came up in the hourlong meeting at the White House on Tuesday, when administration officials had assembled conservative senators who largely align with Trump policies. The particular plan briefed to senators Tuesday does not address temporary guest workers, according to a senior administration official. Kushner presented the broad contours of the proposal, senators said, and the administration stressed that it wants to fix a complicated system of granting visas that had become more complex with each subsequent new law. "It was described in the meeting as a series of layers of paint, and they've just been painted over and over and over again," said one person in attendance on Tuesday, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss a private meeting. "This is an attempt to strip it back down to the wood and start over." Trump was largely favorable to the immigration plan as detailed by Kushner, according to senators. The group discussed the White House's main concept of continuing to admit more than 1 million immigrants on green cards per year, as well as how much value to attach to various qualifications such as an immigrant's education level, vocational skills and age. The White House has studied merit-based point systems in Canada, Australia, Singapore and Japan, among other nations, the senior administration official said. "They want to keep (the overall immigration numbers) level to deprive the Democrats of a political argument," said another person at the meeting, which was held in the Cabinet Room at the White House. The proposal would also improve technology at ports of entry to ensure that everything coming into the United States is scanned. Some Republicans did have questions. For instance, Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., pressed administration officials on how they would address the per-country caps on immigrants that critics say aggravate an already lengthy backlog of high-skilled visa applicants from countries such as India. Administration officials told Cramer that they were aware of the issue and that their proposal would ensure that high-skilled immigrants from larger countries would not be punished by being forced to wait longer for their green cards - but that foreign talent from smaller nations would also get a fair shot. "I wouldn't call it low-hanging fruit," Cramer said of the administration's overall immigration plan in an interview. "But I also think it's in the believable, doable category." Administration officials on Tuesday did not indicate when they would release the White House plan, according to senators. The broader concept of the green-card changes is drawn from a bill reintroduced last month by some of Trump's most conservative allies; it would no longer allow certain family members - such as siblings, adult children and parents of U.S. citizens - to be sponsored for permanent residency. In return, more green cards would be issued based on credentials such as education, job offers and entrepreneurship, although the so-called RAISE Act - sponsored by Perdue and Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark. - is more aggressive in reducing overall immigration levels, according to one of the people in attendance who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the private meeting. Even while Republican senators largely applauded the administration's plan, Trump began to face fierce pushback from influential organizations who have long advocated cutting the number of immigrants admitted into the United States. One of them, Numbers USA, tweeted Tuesday afternoon: "Early indications are that Kushner wants to cut some family categories while boosting both skilled and unskilled employment visas. The only plan that would raise the pay of *American* workers is immigration reduction." Revamping the nation's byzantine immigration laws is a new focus for Kushner, who has been riding on the momentum of a successful effort late last year to revise sentencing laws and better rehabilitate low-level offenders. Amid the partial government shutdown this year, Trump tasked Kushner - who is married to the president's eldest daughter, Ivanka - to take the lead in crafting parts of the administration's immigration agenda. For weeks, Kushner and other White House officials have briefed key Republican senators and congressional aides on the emerging contours of the legal immigration plan, although most of the details have been tightly held within Kushner's circle. The senior White House adviser made his way to Capitol Hill on April 10 to detail his proposal to key GOP senators, including Sens. John Cornyn of Texas, Mike Lee of Utah and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Lee, a Kushner ally who worked on the successful criminal justice effort, hosted the meeting. White House aides also subsequently briefed lawmakers and congressional staffers with a slide-show presentation at the Capitol before the Easter break, according to a person familiar with the meeting. White House economists have been working on models to determine exactly how much legal immigration is necessary to spur additional economic growth after accounting for population increases within the United States, Perdue said. Graham, a close administration ally, said last week that he plans to release his own plan designed to address the recent surge of migration from Central America that has driven up the number of border apprehensions and has infuriated Trump. Democrats, who have long advocated a more generous immigration policy and have declined piecemeal fixes to the system, probably will protest the kind of changes the administration is seeking. Three Senate Democrats backed an earlier version of Trump's immigration plan in a series of test votes in February 2018, and only one of them - Sen. Joe Manchin, W.Va. - is still in office. "I know this: Their plan ain't gonna happen until we sit down and talk" about how to address undocumented immigrants, Graham said. "I've learned that after about 14 times dealing with it. But I give them a lot of credit for coming up with a plan." Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., said he also spoke several weeks ago with Kushner on immigration and stressed that curbing legal migration, particularly by preventing certain family members from obtaining green cards, would be a nonstarter for his party. "I'm troubled when they want to limit legal migration," Durbin said. "You have people who have literally waited 10 years or longer to be reunited with their family, and now, if they don't fit into the narrow categories of this merit immigration, they may never have a chance in their entire lives to come to the United States and join their families." - - - The Washington Post's Toluse Olorunnipa contributed to this report. REDWOOD CITY, Calif., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sumo Logic , the leading cloud-native, machine data analytics platform that delivers continuous intelligence , today announced a $110 million funding round led by Battery Ventures, with contributions from new investors including Tiger Global Management and Franklin Templeton, as well as participation from existing investors. With a current valuation over $1 billion, a record FY19 achievement of more than $100 million in revenue, and over 2,000 customers and more than 100,000 users worldwide leveraging its service, Sumo Logic is firmly positioned as the SaaS machine data analytics leader of choice for the cloud era. Sumo Logics growth is driven by the shift to digital business and cloud adoption across all industries and companies of all sizes, said Ramin Sayar, president and CEO, Sumo Logic. We have proven that we are the platform of choice for not only cloud-native companies, but also enterprise companies and their cloud migration initiatives. It's great to have such a powerful set of leading investors and ecosystem partners as we accelerate our category leadership. This $110 million in funding brings total funding to date to $345 million. The investments will continue to fuel Sumo Logics business spanning engineering, sales, and global operations with an emphasis on extending the platform analytics capabilities of its service. These new capabilities address the operational, security and business requirements of modern businesses as they rapidly adopt new multi-cloud and hybrid-cloud infrastructure, architecture, tools, and processes. We have been tracking the Sumo Logic team for some time, and admire the companys early understanding of the massive cloud-native opportunity and the rise of new, modern application architectures, said Dharmesh Thakker, general partner, Battery Ventures. The companys fast-growing business dovetails with Batterys larger thesis on OpenCloudopen-source and cloud-native technologies working with, not against, new cloud distribution modelsand we are thrilled to partner with the team to capture the significant opportunity ahead. "We are excited to join Sumo Logic at this important moment in the industry-wide transition to cloud computing," said Jonathan Curtis, Vice President, Franklin Templeton. "As the only cloud-native DevSecOps platform built to address the challenges of digital businesses, we believe Sumo Logic is well positioned to capture a significant share of its market." Since the last funding round in June 2017, Sumo Logics business has scaled significantly as a result of its focused multi-year growth strategy including: Rapid revenue growth and customer acquisition The company increased its customer count to over 2,000 with more than 100,000 active users globally, representing every major vertical and company size, from born-in-the-cloud leaders like Airbnb, Pinterest, The Pokemon Co. International, Samsung SmartThings, and Zuora, to digital transformation enterprises such as ABinBev, Adobe, Alaska Airlines, BBC, Genesys, Hearst Media, Infor, Levis, Marriott, Pitney Bowes and USA TODAY NETWORK. Platform innovation and company expansion The Sumo Logic service is among the most sophisticated multi-tenant, cloud-native, analytics platforms in the world. The company has continued to drive innovation of the platform to help meet the ever-changing needs of its customers. A few notable highlights: Unveiled beta cloud SIEM solution to democratize security analytics across traditional IT and new cloud models including DevSecOps to democratize security analytics across traditional IT and new cloud models including DevSecOps Introduced a new category of analytics insights with Global Intelligence Service , designed to extend machine learning and benchmarking data to new teams and use cases across the enterprise , designed to extend machine learning and benchmarking data to new teams and use cases across the enterprise Differentiated platform enhancements to better monitor and troubleshoot distributed microservices-based architectures such as Docker, Kubernetes, and Amazon EKS to drive better customer experiences to drive better customer experiences Scaled number of employees to more than 500 and expanded global footprint in Europe, Japan and across Asia-Pacific (APAC) to meet the growing demand for cloud-native machine data analytics Addition of key executive leadership In the past 12 months, Sumo Logic has welcomed a number of new leaders to the team. These include the companys first independent board members Randy Gottfried, Chuck Robel and Barracuda CEO BJ Jenkins. In addition, Sumo Logic added Sydney Carey as chief financial officer, and Kiki Haar as general counsel, among others. Industry recognition Sumo Logic continues to garner significant industry recognition including: 2019 Best Workplaces in Technology by Great Place to Work and FORTUNE , Forbes Cloud 100 List , JMP Securities 2018 Hot 100 List , Wealthfront 2019 Career Launching Company, CRN 20 Coolest Cloud Security Vendor and Business Analytics Company and more. Additional Resources Attend Illuminate 2019, Sumo Logics User Conference September 11-12. The event is expected to attract 1,000 experts who build, run and secure modern applications and cloud infrastructure Sign up for a free trial of Sumo Logic About Sumo Logic Sumo Logic is a secure, cloud-native, machine data analytics service, delivering real-time, continuous intelligence from structured, semi-structured and unstructured data across the entire application lifecycle and stack. Nearly 2,000 customers around the globe rely on Sumo Logic for the analytics and insights to build, run and secure their modern applications and cloud infrastructures. With Sumo Logic, customers gain a multi-tenant, service-model advantage to accelerate their shift to continuous innovation, increasing competitive advantage, business value and growth. Founded in 2010, Sumo Logic is a privately held company based in Redwood City, Calif. and is backed by Accel Partners, Battery Ventures, DFJ, Franklin Templeton, Greylock Partners, IVP, Sapphire Ventures, Sequoia Capital, Sutter Hill Ventures and Tiger Global Management. For more information, visit www.sumologic.com Media Contacts Melissa Liton Sumo Logic mliton@sumologic.com (650) 814-3882 HARTFORD A union representing Connecticut taxi drivers is among several labor groups supporting a legislative proposal that would raise wages for taxis biggest direct competitor: Uber and Lyft drivers. The United Auto Workers, which represents taxi drivers in Stamford, testified Thursday in favor of a bill that would block transportation network companies from taking more than more than 25 percent of the fee a person pays for a ride or more than 25 percent of a drivers total fares in a day. For up-to-date information on public policy issues, sign up for the CT Politics newsletter. The transportation network economy should be regulated in the same way that the taxi industry is, so that its a fair playing field, said Beverley Brakeman, director of UAW Region 9A. The gig economy is sort of the next level of workers who are being exploited. Connecticuts Uber and Lyft drivers are not unionized. They face an uphill battle to organize because they are considered independent contractors by the National Labor Relations Board. The bill is part of a nationwide backlash against the two largest ride-sharing companies, which have long rebuffed regulations imposed on traditional taxi service by claiming they are an app-based service connecting independent drivers to fares, not a livery company. An unofficial coalition of Uber and Lyft drivers from New Haven successfully lobbied the legislature to consider this proposed law. Seventy-five drivers came to the Capitol Thursday to testify in favor of it. Uber opposes the bill, arguing it might actually significantly reduce drivers earnings. The bill is predicated upon the incorrect assumption that drivers are paid a set percentage of riders fares, said DeShawn Wright, senior manager of public policy for Uber Technologies Inc. Riders pay an upfront price, while a drivers fare is based on a pre-set time and distance rate. In previous years, unions have favored tighter restrictions on Uber and Lyft. Two years ago, the General Assembly passed a compromise bill that created rules for ride-sharing companies and required background checks and registration for drivers but did not address pay for the drivers. The state requires Uber and Lyft drivers to have insurance that covers bodily injury of at least $1 million. Uber said it now pays for this insurance, but it would not pay for the insurance if the bill passed. Drivers, most of whom are part-time, would have to pay around $4,500 to operate in Connecticut, Wright said. New York City passed a minimum pay ordinance for app-based drivers in December, setting an earnings floor of $17.22 an hour. Seattle is also considering legislation to set minimum charges across all parts of the for-hire transportation industry. Connecticuts proposal is different, but it has won the support of some Democratic lawmakers. Other unions are also backing the Uber and Lyft drivers. Three Teamsters union representatives attended a meeting of the New Haven drivers in February to show their support. Well commit our lobbyist, said Dave Lucas, secretary-treasurer for Teamsters Union Local 671. Stacy Zimmerman, associate director of the Connecticut State Council of the Service Employees International Union, said SEIU is also backing the bill. emunson@hearstmediact.com; Twitter: @emiliemunson D ont tell my ex-wife, but Im having my best year ever, a big-hitter at one of the UKs largest headhunting names says under his breath. Theres more movement than weve seen in a while. Hes not the only one whos busy racking up the fees, despite the wider mood music around Brexit. Thats because some of the biggest jobs in corporate Britain are up for grabs. Wherever you look in the business landscape you see vacancies or potential ones coming up which could have ambitious candidates licking their lips. Take retail: the whispers say that if Marks & Spencers efforts to improve dont go to plan, Steve Rowe will have to walk. Former Sainsburys boss Justin King is in the wings on the board and wouldnt be the first non-exec to get the top job. Hell probably have to fend off ambitious clothing and home boss Jill McDonald, though, who told an industry event in January that she had wanted to "run it. Over at Kings old shop Sainsburys, if Mike Coupe falls after the collapse of the Asda deal, two fancied internal contenders include Argos boss John Rogers and chief financial officer Kevin OByrne a former B&Q boss whos a confident City performer. Elsewhere, gossips suggest Tesco boss Dave Lewis might be tempted to return to consumer goods he came from Unilever as the chief executive role at Vanish-to-Cillit Bang giant Reckitt Benckiser falls vacant. That in turn will leave the bosss role at the UKs biggest grocer wide open after Lewiss widely tipped successor Charles Wilson stepped down because of cancer last year. Over at John Lewis Partnership, Kate Swann, Patrick Lewis and Paul Geddes are all vying to replace Sir Charlie Mayfield; Lewis is the bookies favourite. In finance Ross McEwan is a tough act to follow at Royal Bank of Scotland after the starting pistol for the top job was formally fired last month, with deputy chief executive Alison Rose in pole position. The board is taking its time though, which suggests she might not be the dead cert everyone thinks. After eight years at Lloyds Banking Group Antonio Horta-Osorio is linked to most big banking jobs these days but another state-backed bank would be a bridge too far. Scottish Widows chief executive Antonio Lorenzo could be a candidate if Horta-Osorio heads off. At the smaller end of the scale, few would bet on Metro Banks Craig Donaldson lasting much longer either. The insurers could be busy too: Legal & Generals Nigel Wilson has been chief executive for seven years so chairman Sir John Kingman is likely to be thinking about who takes over from the 62-year old. Chief financial officer Jeff Davies has a good shout but Kingman may want to look externally. One recruiter said: My sense is Nigel wants to stay as chief executive for ever. Andy Briggs, who stepped down as Aviva UK chief, has also been talked of as a possible replacement for Clive Bannister at FTSE 100 giant Phoenix. Bannister is likely to retire in the next couple of years and Phoenix chairman Nick Lyons was on the board of Friends Life when it was run by Andy Briggs. Small world. In property Colette OShea looks nailed on to replace Rob Noel at LandSec after expanding her responsibilities at the UKs biggest property firm, and incoming British Land chairman Tim Scores job will be to ensure a smooth transition from Chris Grigg, whos run the show for a decade. Then there are the chairmen: thanks to changes to corporate governance codes, this is a breed in short supply. Though the big fees come from executive postings, therell be plenty of fees to be had from placing chairmen after the changes to the Financial Reporting Councils code which limits board service to nine years. Turnover has been rapid as firms look to comply with the code, but according to figures from BoardEx there are more than 40 FTSE 100 chairmen with at least seven years of board service, coming up to the deadline. Vodafone is the latest to look with 72-year-old Gerard Kleisterlees time up next year. Kit Bingham, a partner at Odgers Berndtson, said there is a flurry of chairmanships up for grabs as boards hunt for candidates. In the old days if you were a non-exec then became chairman, the clock reset. But a number of boards have advanced their succession planning to ensure they comply rather than explain. Companies in year one dont want to stand out from the pack. The investment community is not giving them a pass. The City has been under pressure to widen the pool anyway. Its a good time to be an aspiring chairman. And to be in the headhunting game, too. B attered accountant KPMG was engulfed in controversy again on Wednesday after regulators slapped it with a 5 million fine for a botched Co-op Bank audit, its second multi-million pound fine in a week. The company, which was fined 6 million last Wednesday for a failed audit of motor insurer Equity Red Star, was sanctioned by the Financial Reporting Council for work on Co-op Bank during the ill-fated takeover of Britannia building society in 2009. The FRC said KPMG had poorly audited Britannias risky loan book because it had failed to be sceptical enough and did not collect enough evidence. The 5 million penalty was reduced by 20% after KPMG admitted misconduct, meaning that it will have to pay 4 million. Audit partner Andrew Walker was fined 125,000, reduced to 100,000, and severely reprimanded for his role. He still works at KPMG. The fine will add further fuel to the debate about breaking up the big four auditors. The Competition and Markets Authority is mulling plans to break up the companies by forcing separation of audit and consulting. It could also force the big four KPMG, EY, Deloitte and PwC to work alongside smaller professional services firms on large audits. The Co-op Bank nearly went bust after uncovering a 1.5 billion black hole in 2013. A report by Sir Christopher Kelly found the disaster was rooted in the Britannia merger and its risky loan book. Co-op bank chairman Dennis Holt was later forced to apologise for the debacle after City regulators censured the company. KPMG said: We regret that some of our audit work around specific elements of the banks Fair Value Adjustments did not meet the appropriate standards. The work in question was conducted almost a decade ago and we have significantly enhanced our procedures and training around the areas in question since then. The companys audits for the next three years will also be double-checked by an internal quality team who report directly to the FRC. The FRC is investigating the professional services firm over three more audits. B uilders merchant Travis Perkins looked safe as houses on Wednesday after a strong start to the year. The retailer, which also owns the likes of Wickes and Toolstation, promised in December to simplify the business after a profit warning in summer and faltering sales. Five months in and Travis Perkins is making progress. Same-store sales were up 7.3% for the quarter, with signs of a good recovery at Wickes, which wobbled last year. The shares followed suit, making Travis the highest riser on the FTSE 250, up by almost 5%, or 68p, to 1472p. Brokers at Liberum raised the target price from 1450p to 1600p, and Merrill Lynch reiterated its Buy stance, as more Britons gear up for DIY projects and the company prepares to offload its plumbing and heating business this year. DIY will remain tough in 2019 but Wickes is in better relative shape than its competitors, said retail analyst Matthew Walton at research firm GlobalData. The retailer also gave a lift to B&Q owner Kingfisher, which ended the year on a downbeat note and announced the departure of its boss Veronique Laury. Shares climbed 2.4p to 254.8p. The FTSE 100 stayed relatively calm on Wednesday despite investors concerns about more tariff retaliation coming from the US and Donald Trump, which has destabilised stocks around the world this week. It edged up 4.77 points to 7265.24 after losing ground in the previous session. Helping the blue-chip index to stay pretty stable were miners and oil producers. However, tobacco maker Imperial Brands and insurer Direct Line dragged it down, falling 103p to 2224p and 5p to 311p respectively. Country-casual fashion brand Joules on Wednesday bagged a little-known chief executive, Nick Jones not he of Soho House. Jones will join the retailer before the end of the year from Asda. The Citys reception showed that it was underwhelmed and shares edged down 3.2p, or 1.1%, to 274.8p. Car dealership Vertu on Wednesday defied the general slowdown with pre-tax profits of 25 million for the year to February 28, better than the City expected but down from last years 30.4 million. Chairman Peter Jones, who has been at the firm since 2015, also said he was stepping down in the coming months as the company is poised for further growth. Theres no successor yet, but it has begun the search. Shares rose 0.5p, or 1.5%, to 33.5p. Small Cap Spotlight W hen I was invited to meet Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt I felt a responsibility, knowing Id be speaking to someone with the power to help end the war in my country. The independent human rights organisation I lead, Mwatana, documents violations by all sides, relying on the power of truth to seek peace and accountability. I prepared to draw on these principles to deliver three messages to Mr Hunt. First, peace in Yemen is still possible but it needs the will of the international community, with greater pressure to help carry forward momentum from recent peace talks. Second, accountability for crimes carried out against Yemeni civilians is a crucial part of any push towards sustainable peace. Third, UK military support for Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates makes peace in Yemen harder and there are steps Britain could take to minimise suffering, such as ending arms sales. To date, the war in Yemen has killed hundreds of thousands of civilians, with millions more pushed to the brink of famine. All sides have carried out horrific violations and bear responsibility for what the UN has deemed the worlds worst humanitarian disaster. The Houthi armed group, which took over the capital Sanaa in 2014, has indiscriminately attacked civilians, tortured and disappeared innocents, and laid landmines. On the other side, the Saudi/UAE-led coalition has carried out thousands of air strikes since 2015, including unlawful attacks on civilians and infrastructure, hitting schools, hospitals, weddings and funerals. The UK risks complicity. I gave Mr Hunt a copy of Mwatanas report on the use of US and British munitions in Saudi/UAE air strikes. To his credit, he has said Yemen is a priority and has committed to using the UKs strategic relationship with Saudi Arabia and the UAE to try to end the war. My main message to him is that he should redouble these diplomatic efforts, which means condemning all attacks on civilians (including those committed by UK allies using UK weapons), pressing for accountability for these and other crimes committed by all sides, and using British influence to lead the UN Security Council to take action supporting sustainable peace. The war in Yemen empowers and feeds extremist groups and undermines Yemenis dream of a functioning state based on equal rights and the rule of law. Only a political agreement based on justice, democracy and the rule of law can stop the war for good. Achieving the peace Yemenis deserve will not be easy but the UK could make a real difference to millions of Yemenis who did not choose this war. Pune, India, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cake Mix Market is poised to touch USD 1,527.4 Mn by 2023 at an impressive 3.83% CAGR during the forecast period (2018-2023), reveals the latest report by Market Research Future (MRFR). Cake mixes are preformulations designed for conveniently creating cakes. The high demand for go-to and grab products has created a niche for cake mixes. Moreover, the penchant for cakes for celebrating special events and events is likely to create opportunities for the cake mix market. Market Scope The global cake mix market is likely to scale to a size of USD 1,527.4 million by 2023, as per the in-depth report by Market Research Future (MRFR). High demand for convenience products in Asian countries is expected to drive the market over the forecast period (2018-2023). High sales of cakes are likely to facilitate market growth till 2023. The emphasis on clean labels can pose a challenge for the market. The inclusion of starches, flours, and gums in premixes which helps in the moistness of cakes can replace functional ingredients in labels. For instance, cake manufacturers are experimenting with enzyme technology for replacing emulsifiers without ruining the texture of cakes. Get Free Sample @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/2543 Key Players and Industry Buzz Well-known names in the cake mix market include Hain Celestial Group, Inc., Archer-Daniel Midlands Company, Chelsea Milling Co., General Mills, Inc., Kerry Group PLC, Miss Jones Baking Co., Associated British Foods PLC, Dawn Food Products, Inc., Dr August Oetker AG, and Pinnacle Foods Inc. Vegan Cake Mixes on the Rise Vegetarian and gluten-free cake mixes are being manufactured on a massive scale due to high consumer demand. Moreover, the mix consists of ingredients being rich in carotenoids, minerals, and vitamins owing to the inclusion of functional foods by consumers. Catching on to the trend, reputed makers such as Duncan Hines have launched their own variation in the market. In 2017, research students in Sweden decided to create a cake mix which required the addition of water and oil. In 2018, Puratos UK decided to introduce vegan cake mixes for its consumers in its Satin brand. Segmentation Analysis The global Cake Mix Market is segmented by type, flavor, and distribution channel. By type, the Cake Mix Market is segmented into chiffon cake, layer cake, angel food cake, cupcake, mug cake, flourless or low-flour cake, and others. Among these, the layer cake mix is touted to accrue a valuation of USD 240.5 million by 2023. The evolution of the process coupled with the marketing of these cakes beyond weddings can augur well for the segment. On the other hand, the angel food cake segment can accumulate close to USD 194.5 million for the cake mix market by the end of the forecast period. By flavor, the market is segmented into chocolate, vanilla, and others. Chocolate led the segment in 2017 and will continue its reign over the assessment period. On the other hand, the vanilla flavor is likely to appeal to consumer taste buds and generate close to USD 368.4 million by 2023. By distribution channel, it is segmented into store based and non-store based. The store-based channel had a larger market share in 2017 owing to availability of cakes in retail stores, hypermarket chains, and other outlets. But the non-store based channel may gain a higher market share due to discounts given to cake mix products. Moreover, partnerships between ecommerce stores and cake mix manufacturers is bound to be fruitful for the market in the years to come. Browse the market data and information spread across 115 pages with 88 data tables and 26 figures of the report Cake Mix Market Report - Forecast 2018-2023 in-depth alongside table of content (TOC) at: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/cake-mix-market-2543 APAC to be the Largest Revenue Generator The Cake Mix Market considers the following regions - Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, and Rest-of-the-World (RoW) for its expansion. The APAC region can enjoy a CAGR of 4.21% over the forecast period to touch a valuation of USD 211.2 million by 2023. The demand by farmers in India and China for effective feeds is likely to augur well for the cake mix market. In addition, the preference for protein-dense meats is expected to lead to high investments by international feed producers. Other factors such as urbanization and high-income growth of consumers can facilitate market growth. The North American region can accumulate close to USD 738.1 million by 2023 due to the presence of various convenience food manufacturers. Launch of new flavors which appeal to taste buds of consumers are likely to drive regional market growth. Promotional campaigns in the form of advertisements and distribution of samples in commercial establishments which creates awareness can augur well for the cake mix market. The Europe region can reach a valuation of USD 379.6 million by 2023 due to increasing preference of calorie-light cakes by consumers. Browse Related Reports: Bakery Ingredients Market Research Report Type (Emulsifier, Enzymes, Starch, Baking Powder And Mixes, Colors & Flavors, Oil, Fats & Shortenings), Application (Cookies & Biscuits, Bread, Rolls & Pies, Cakes & Pastries) Region - Forecast till 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/bakery-ingredients-market-4928 Cocoa Ingredients Market Research Report by Type (Criollo, Forastero, Trinitario), Application (Bakery & Confectionery, Dairy Products, Beverages, Personal Care Products, Pharmaceuticals) and Region - Forecast till 2023 https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/cocoa-ingredients-market-1380 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), & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. T here are governments which do things, and governments which have things done to them. Theresa Mays ailing administration is firmly in the latter category. Yesterday, it announced that European elections would after all go ahead on May 23 as if it had some active part in that decision, when in truth it had no say at all. These elections are mandated by law because we remain in the European Union. Everyone, other than the blinkered occupants of Downing Street, could see a month ago that there was no prospect of a Brexit deal being agreed before the European poll so the other parties got organised, started working out what to put in their manifestos and began campaigning. Some have used the time more productively than others. Nigel Farage has been touring the country for weeks now reminding everyone what a nightmare he is for the Tories. Labour has been arguing over referendum commitments but settled again on the ambiguity that has so far prevented a major split while hoping it continues to win some of the Remain support. The TIGs/Change UK whatever-theyre-now-called party has selected some interesting candidates but got bogged down by changing the name not once but twice. The Lib-Dems have been quietly building on local election success. Meanwhile, the Conservatives have been dawdling on the starting line, spouting nonsense on TV and radio about how these are elections that no one wanted and so werent going to happen. The Prime Minister appeared genuinely confident that Jeremy Corbyn, the man she derides every day as being dangerously unfit for office, would instead sustain her in No 10 by rescuing her party from annihilation at these polls. Heres a surprise: he has not. In further evidence of the parallel universe Mrs May is now living in, the Brexit talks between the Government and the Opposition yesterday were described by No 10 as constructive and detailed; Labour said what was on offer was a million miles away from what they could possibly accept. Thats a lot of distance to cover by a Prime Minister who has not really budged an inch yet, refusing to contemplate a permanent customs union which even the Corbynites in favour of a deal would regard as their bottom line. The talks continue because its in not in Labours interests to agree, and its not in Mrs Mays interests to break them off. If she did, the last hopes she clings to that she may still be able to pass her deal would be extinguished. While the talks continue, she can go on making her case to her probation officer (Sir Graham Brady) that she should be free to continue as premier. The price being paid is that the party she is holding hostage is careering towards its worst performance in a national election in its long history. Leading Cabinet ministers watch on and do nothing. They are like the Vicomte de Valmont in the movie adaptation of Les Liaisons Dangereuses: shrugging their shoulders and saying its beyond my control as the reputation and fortunes of the party theyve been entrusted with are damaged, possibly beyond repair. They assume that while the European elections are lost to them, the real election they care about a leadership one is within their grasp. But the early surveys of party opinion suggest otherwise. For contenders for prime minister are like the governments they aspire to lead: they can either do things, or have things done to them. And people, and party members, can tell the difference. All Londons a new stage London is in the middle of an unexpected boom in curtains going up on new theatres. Today comes news that Nicholas Hytner and Nick Starr are planning to open a second Bridge Theatre, in Kings Cross, on top of the riverside venue near Tower Bridge they have been running since 2017. Its a bright plan but its not the only one on the way. Space 18, an immersive experience with 200 rooms in seven buildings, comes later this year. The Southwark Playhouse is moving to two new sites. The intimate Boulevard Theatre opens in Soho in the autumn. Change has got to be healthy: an art form stuck in old places cant renew. I read with mounting dismay Rohan Silvas Comment piece on AI [Theres no escape from the robots we should welcome our AI friends, May 3]. I disagree with the usually excellent Silva on this occasion. Far from calling the growth of AI a threat to jobs, the boffins are increasingly producing evidence to show that an augmented workforce (that is, humans and AI working side-by-side) has several strong benefits for us as employees. Lost jobs are likely to be the repetitive and mundane kind. AI is very good at this kind of work. Silva quite rightly adopts a more positive tone when he points out that this frees up workers to focus on the parts of their roles the creative, personable parts they most enjoy (and are best suited to) but he fails to mention that in a truly augmented workforce AI workers will, in fact, create jobs for their human colleagues. To refer to my own companys experience, the use of AI assistants within a sales team increases the need for human headcount, as the AI produces far more sales leads and at a higher quality. As Silva signs off, the future will be much more complex and much more interesting. It will be far more enjoyable and prosperous too. Matt Antos-Lewis Director of marketing, Conversica EDITOR'S REPLY Dear Matt THERE are great examples of artificial intelligence helping people search for Paro, the plush robot seal pup from Japan, who is a therapeutic friend for dementia patients or whizzing through analysis of dense legal documents to assist lawyers. Although when you have both the late theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking and Tesla boss Elon Musk warning of future problems with AI, I think we should discuss realistic job security concerns for future generations. And while self-learning software might help push sales or field customers online queries, many jobs without creative, personable elements risk the chopping block up to 30 per cent of roles by 2030, according to consultant McKinsey. The nine-to-five routine could certainly be sweetened by a robo-colleague to sweat your boring stuff. But will they get the teas in? Mark Blunden, Technology Correspondent Local polls showed Remains strength Both the Conservatives, who lost so many seats in the local elections, and Labour, who lost fewer but expected to gain seats as the Government is so unpopular, have jumped to the conclusion that it was because both parties had failed to deliver Brexit. If that were the reason, why would the party that has always stood for Remain, the Liberal Democrats, have gained so many seats? Surely the reason is more likely to be that in the three years since the referendum, which had a close result, many people have now decided that they wish to stay in the EU, and have voted accordingly for the Remain party. Valerie Crews The Tories have moved inexorably to the Right and no longer represent the values of Centre-leaning pro-European voters, who will choose instead to support the Lib-Dems or Change UK. Jeremy Rolls Build a Parliament fit for the future With the reportedly increasingly unsafe Palace of Westminster buildings [Death trap Parliament, the Londoner, May 3], isnt it time to modernise Parliament in more ways than one, with a purpose-built, modern complex? Holyrood has provided an inspirational base for the Scottish Parliament. Shouldnt our government have the same? The Palace of Westminster could become a museum. Paul Newton Cinema etiquette: a gentleman writes Today marks the start of a new era for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, as they withdraw from royal life, relinquishing both their duties and their titles. The couple made their final appearances at a series of events in London at the start of this month, for which Markle chose largely to wear British designers. As she now ventures into unchartered territory - it's been confirmed that her first stop post-royal will be providing the voiceover for a Disney+ documentary about elephants - it will be intriguing to see which brands Markle chooses to support. On becoming a part of the royal family, Meghan was required to transform her relaxed Californian wardrobe overnight. Glossy blowouts replaced her signature messy bun, nude nails replaced colourful polish, and her beloved cross-body bags were, as royal etiquette dictates, swapped for clutch bags. Tending to stick to a palette of plain colours and neutral hues, Meghans royal wardrobe was elegant and formal, if noticeably heavier on expensive designer brands than her sister-in-law Kates. On cutting her royal ties, Meghan will once again be able to wear whatever she likes. She will no longer be required to wear tights in public, or formal hats at events, can carry any sort of handbag and paint her nails whatever colour she pleases. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex departs Canada House on January 07, 2020 (Getty Images ) / Getty Images She will also, interestingly, be able once again to accept free clothes from her network of fashion industry contacts (something that is prohibited for members of the royal family), among them her good friend Misha Nonoo and Givenchys Claire Weight Keller who designed her wedding dress. In addition to whatever money they make from their upcoming projects, Harry and Meghan, the soon-to-be members of the public, will also continue to receive a steady income from Prince Charles' private Duchy of Cornwall estate, which will also go some way to cover Meghans high end fashion purchases. While the newfound free reign might mean Meghan embraces an edgier, more high-fashion approach than during her royal years, her recent outings in Canada might suggest Meghans post-royal wardrobe will be more relaxed and down to earth. Just days after the Sussexes announced that they were stepping down, Meghan visited two Vancouver women's charities in one day for which she wore a cable knit by The Row recycled from her Suits days with jeans and weatherproof boots. And then again a few weeks ago she was spotted getting off a commercial flight in Canadas Victoria International Airport wearing a super casual outfit of jeans, shirt and flats that championed sustainable brands. Perhaps Meghan will use her newfound position to champion ethical fashion start-ups? Or maybe she will give us a dose of her Suits days glamour with a magazine cover-worthy wardrobe (shes bound to grace the cover of Vogues September issue no?). We wait with bated breath. A new photography exhibition at the National Theatre captures the lives of Caribbean immigrants against the backdrop of the Thames estuary. The new show features the work of photographer Ronan Mckenzie, and is running alongside the National's major stage adaptation of Andrea Levy's Small Island . Mckenzie, who previously photographed Serena Williams for Teen Vogue, wanted to explore the post-war journeys taken by Caribbean men and women between 1948-1971. The exhibition, curated by National Theatre's archive associate Natasha Bonnelame, particularly focuses on the theme of water both in the locations of the photographs but also in smaller details such as in the waves of the model's hairstyles. The photos also connect ideas of seascapes, arrivals and new beginnings. Mckenzie said: For me this series represents the multiplicity and diversity in experiences of Caribbean immigrants, that begun in 1948 with the arrival of the Empire Windrush. Both being islands, the Caribbean and United Kingdom are linked by water, which inspired the artistic direction for the series. Similarly, immigration and personal journeys are sentiments that many people can relate to on a number of levels, and the clusters of people within my images aim to depict the connection between many of these stories. A series of talks and events will run alongside the exhibition, including a screening of the The Stuart Hall Project and a talk exploring the development of the Caribbean Artists Movement. Mckenzie recently funded and curated a group exhibition titled IM HOME, which featured four black British female photographers and explored themes of home and family. Ronan Mckenzie: Photographs is running in the Lyttelton Lounge until September, for more information visit nationaltheatre.org.uk They proved that popstars really can be role models Whether Western popstars should act as straight-laced role models has been the subject of much hand-wringing for decades. Can they swear? Are they allowed to drink alcohol? For a long time, it was unthinkable for them to take drugs and then, even worse, talk about it. Its a debate that rages on over here in the West, but with BTS things different. K-Pop, for the most part, has an incredibly clean cut image: the idols dont smoke, rarely ever swear and never drink to excess, at least not in a way that would be seen by the public. These squeaky clean personas have cultivated huge, adoring fanbases, especially among the younger population. BTS havent entirely avoided controversy Jimin courted outrage when he was seen wearing a t-shirt which appeared to depict an A-bomb being dropped on Japan, although it seems now to have been a senseless sartorial choice rather than something malicious. By and large, BTS have proved that, sometimes, nice guys do finish first. Getty Images F ormer National Theatre supremos Nicholas Hytner and Nick Starr are to build a 600-seat Kings Cross venue. The pair, known as the two Nicks, produced a string of hits at the National, including One Man, Two Guvnors. They left the Southbank institution in 2015 and set up the London Theatre Company. Two years ago, they opened the Bridge Theatre, near Tower Bridge. The Kings Cross theatre will be housed in the new P2 building, designed by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, which will also become home to Facebook. Downton Abbey star Dame Maggie Smith is starring in one-woman show A German Life at the Bridge and Game Of Thrones actress Gwendoline Christie will be appearing there from June 3 in Shakespeares A Midsummer Nights Dream. No details have yet been released about a potential programme for the new theatre, which is planned to open in 2021. But a spokeswoman said the building would have a flexible auditorium that could host a varied programme of new commissions and classics. The building, on Lewis Cubitt Square, will be close to Central St Martins art college. The area previously held a temporary venue that showed the David Bowie musical Lazarus and the Donmar Warehouses all-female Shakespeare trilogy. James Edgerley, project director at Kings Cross Central Limited Partnership, said: Weve been busy working with the London Theatre Company on this joint proposal as the buildings design has evolved and we are excited to bring forward a high quality theatre at the heart of Kings Cross. This will help further our vision of N1C as Londons creative quarter, where there will be plenty more new openings in the years to come. We cant wait for the first performance. O n Wednesday, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed the name of their first child, a baby boy born on Monday May 6, 2019. Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor is the latest member of the British Royal Family, and seventh in line to the throne. While office chat has been filled with debates over whether the first-time parents would pick a traditional or modern name , and bookies picked Albert and Arthur as frontrunners, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decided to go with Archie. But what does the name Archie mean? According to nameberry.com: "Archie is a boy's name of German origin meaning 'truly brave'." The name Archie is popular in the UK, and frequents in the top 20 lists for boys names. The name actually already has ties to the British Royal Family. At the start of this year, Prince George apparently told a dog walker that he was called 'Archie'. According to The Sun, the five-year-old was out for a walk with his grandmother, Carole Middleton, when he told the passerby his nickname. Will Archie be a prince? Despite the fact the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's children all have the prince and princess titles, Archie Harrison will unlikely be a prince. This is because King George V introduced a stipulation during his reign that said only children of the King or Queen, children of the King or Queens sons and only the eldest living son of the eldest living son of the Prince of Wales were eligible for the titles. Baby Sussex named Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor King George V said at the time: "The grandchildren of the sons of any such Sovereign in the direct male line (save only the eldest living son of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales) shall have and enjoy in all occasions the style and title enjoyed by the children of Dukes of these Our Realms." It's likely Archie will inherit one of Prince Harry's titles, like the Earl of Dumbarton. Archie is predicted to be the most popular name in the UK by 2025 Research by Ancestry has found that Archie is likely to be one of the most popular names by 2022 and will be the most popular boy's name in the UK by 2025. TODO: define component type apester By comparing historic census records with recent data from the Office of National Statistics, Ancestry found that George jumped four places in most popular boys names following Prince George's birth in 2013, while Charlotte jumped 13 places in two years following Princess Charlotte's birth in 2015. Archie is currently the 18th most-popular baby name in the UK but is expected to reach the top spot within the next six years. What is Archie short for? Archie is short for Archibald, a name of Spanish origin, but the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have decided to simply name their first-born son Archie. What does the name Harrison mean? A likely nod to his father, Prince Harry, Harrison is of English origin and means 'son of Harry'. Rather fitting, isn't it? Where does Mountbatten-Windsor come from? According to royal.uk, before 1917, members of the British Royal Family had no surname but this changed when King George V specifically adopted 'Windsor' as their official surname. The surname Windsor remained the same until 1960, when the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh decided they wanted their direct descendants to be distinguished from the rest of the royal family, therefore adding Prince Philip's surname of Mountbatten to the family name. A man has been killed and two others were injured in a shooting in Birmingham. The victim, 23, was fatally wounded in the Ladywood area of the city shortly after 5pm on Tuesday. Two other men, aged 19 and 20, were rushed to hospital for treatment following the incident in St Vincent Street West. Their injuries were not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing, West Midlands Police said. Detectives launched an investigation into the gun attack and extra police officers were deployed in the area last night. The victim was fatally shot in St Vincent Street West, Ladywood / Google No arrests had been made over the killing and witnesses were asked to come forward. A 13-year-old boy has been stabbed in south London, police have said. Met Police responded to reports of a stabbing on Gloucester Road in Croydon just before 5.30pm on Wednesday. They arrived with an ambulance and found a 13-year-old boy with stab injuries. A police spokesman said they were waiting on an update on his condition. It has been reported the boy may have been stabbed in the head. A British man has been charged with murdering a woman and her one-year-old daughter in Canada. Robert Leeming faces two counts of second-degree murder over the deaths of Jasmine Lovett, 25, and her daughter Aliyah Sanderson. The pair were last seen alive in the Cranston area of Calgary on the evening of April 16 and their bodies were found in woodland west of the city on Monday. Leeming appeared in court via videolink on Tuesday after he was seen being led into a Calgary police station in handcuffs. The bodies of Jasmine Lovett, 25, and her daughter were found in woodland west of Calgary / Calgary Police Service He is due to appear again in court on May 14, Calgary Police said. Investigations into how Ms Lovett and her daughter died are continuing, the force added. Aliyah Sanderson was found dead along with her mother / Calgary Police Service In a statement released on Tuesday their family said their lives had been "devastated and our hearts are heavy". "We are trying to understand how this tragedy could have happened to our loved ones," they said. Acumen Research and Consulting, recently published report Modular Robotics Market - Global Industry Analysis, Market Size, Share and Forecast, 2019 - 2026 LOS ANGELES, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Modular Robotics Market is estimated to grow at CAGR above 13.5% over the forecast time frame 2019-2026 and reach the market value around USD 25 billion by 2026. Free Download Sample Report Pages for Better understanding@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/request-sample/1344 This report suggests that increasing the use of modular robots across several vertical industry lines is likely to increase demand for modular robotics from 2019 to 2027, with a view to reducing production costs and increasing use of modular cobots (collaborative robots) worldwide. Because the key players in developed markets such as North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are implementing innovative modular robots, these regions are likely to account for a important share of the global modular robotics market during the projected period. Growing electronics and the automotive sector and increasing automation trend are expected to boost the Asia Pacific modular robotics market from 2019 to 2026, particularly in emerging markets such as China, Japan, South Korea and India. Issue of system integration can hinder the modular robotics market A large number of modules connected with each other form a single robotic system, consist of model robotic systems. Modular. However, in some cases a modular robot is very difficult to produce since hardware modules are owned and sometimes incompatible by several producers. The system integration process becomes complex due to this incompatibility. Several manufacturers (including Acutronic Robotics Technology) create common integration platforms to simplify integration of modular robotics systems. View Detail Information with Complete TOC@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/modular-robotics-market Modular Robotics in Automotive And Electronic Industries Are Used Significantly And Led The Market In 2018 The global market for modular robotics is divided into residential, commercial and industrial applications. The industrial segment consists of automobiles, electronics, pharmaceutical, rubber and plastics, food and beverages, metals and machinery, etc. Industrial automation adoption grows in many industries worldwide, and in the car and electronic industries it is significant. For example, the World Robots 2018 International Federation of Robots Industrial Report states that industrial robots are used considerably in the automobile and electronic industries worldwide. Several manufacturers in both industries adopt industrial automation to boost their output and meet the growing demands of consumers. In order to increase their production with low investment, they adopt modular industrial robotic systems. Manufacturers can flexible production lines using modular robots as an operator can change the set-up of any modular robot according to manufacturing requirements. Furthermore, modular robots offer a longer lifetime and are able to increase productivity as they can be adjusted for ever-changing production lines. In addition, various industries have modular robotics systems in place with high product turnover to increase production production productivity and integrity. Browse All official Market Research Reports Press Releases@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/press-releases Explore Our Market Blog@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/blogs Regional Snapshots Asia Pacific has a major share in the global modular robotics market in terms of revenues. The largest proportion of this region is due to the strong presence across the region, especially in prominent economies such as Japan, China, South Korea and India, of leading well-established players and the dominance of highly automated industries, such as automobile and electronics. Mitsubishi Electric Corp., Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., and FANUC are the well established players. In addition, Asia Pacific is driving the market with the presence of a large electronics industry, increased sales of local robot suppliers and increasing industrial automation across the region. Key Players & Strategies This report includes profiles of renowned players in the global market for modular robotics. The focus of the players is on strategic collaboration and technologically advanced products to clients. KK, ABB, Viper Innovations Ltd; Schneider Electric, Littelfuse, Inc. and HAKEL LTD. Universal Robots A / S announced in February 2019 its partnership with the manufacturer of India-based machine tools, Bharat Fritz Werner (BFW). The partnership will bring the collaborative robots technology to the MSME shop floors via a modular platform. In addition, it would improve BFW's productivity. INQUIRY BEFORE BUYING@ https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/inquiry-before-buying/1344 The report is readily available and can be dispatched immediately after payment confirmation. Buy this premium research report - https://www.acumenresearchandconsulting.com/buy-now/0/1344 Would like to place an order or any question, please feel free to contact at sales@acumenresearchandconsulting.com | +1 407 915 4157 For Latest Update Follow Us: https://twitter.com/AcumenRC https://www.facebook.com/acumenresearchandconsulting https://www.linkedin.com/company/acumen-research-and-consulting/ A woman found dead in a freezer in a London flat had been trying to turn her life around when she disappeared, it emerged today. Police named Henriett Szucs, 34, as the second of two women discovered murdered in a chest freezer in Canning Town last month. She last made contact with her family in a phone call in the summer of 2016 and detectives are trying to establish if that was the last time she was seen or heard from alive. A post mortem has found that Ms Scucs and missing mother-of-three Mihrican Mustafa suffered multiple injuries before their bodies were hidden in the freezer. Today Sonia Lynch, manager of the Welcome Centre for the homeless in Ilford, said the 34-year-old had been homeless but was taking steps to get her life back on track. Henriett Szucs was named as one of the victims found in a freezer in Canning Town / Met Police The charity worker added: She was warm and positive. She had a difficult early life and problems as an adult but was on the right path. She was never any trouble and was always upbeat and friendly. She said Ms Szucs had been chosen to go on a two day retreat with the Welcome Centre such was her positive attitude and potential to get her life on track. Mihrican Mustafa, aged 38, has been identified as one of the women found in a freezer in Canning Town / Met Police Ms Lynch added: She had no chip on her shoulder she just got on with life. To hear how she ended up is such a shock to us. The last time I saw her she cane here for a good voucher but was living with a friend in Ilford and seemed happy and healthy. To get the news of how she ended up is heartbreaking. The womens bodies were found by police in the flat in the flat in Vandome Close last month. Zahid Younis, 34, who lived in the flat, appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates Court last week charged with two counts of preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body on or before April 27. T wo boys whose bodies were found at the bottom of a cliff had been drugged by their father after he stabbed their mother to death, an inquest has heard. Adelino Gabriel Figueira de Faria, 57, was also found dead alongside his sons Claudio, 10, and Joaquin, seven, on the beach at Birling Gap in Eastbourne. Around an hour later, their 47-year-old mother Laura Cecilia Navarrete De Figueira was found with stab wounds at her home in South Road, Twickenham. Traces of a sedative which should only be prescribed to adults were present in both children as well their mother after, the inquest at West London Coroner's Court heard on Wednesday. Forensic pathologist Charlotte Randall said the drug was found in both of the "previously fit and healthy boys", following their discovery on March 5 last year. Police at the family home following the deaths / Jonathan Brady/PA Dr Randall added it was not possible to say whether they jumped, fell or were pushed from the top of the cliff. The cliff reached more than 200ft above where their bodies were found. Judith Wells recalled seeing a male figure appearing to hold the hands of two boys in bright red jackets as they walked away from her, on the afternoon of March 5. In a statement read by coroner Sean Cummings, she said: "They seemed to be walking very slowly, almost plodding along. "The children looked tired, they were walking in a reluctant manner - not the way you would expect a child to walk unless they were tired. "The three of them were walking very slowly up the hill and I remember thinking that the children did not look like they were having a lot of fun." Murder probe: Forensic officers leave the property in South Road, Twickenham, where a woman was stabbed to death / PA The bodies of the father and his sons were discovered by a photographer as he descended the hill and the inquest was told that the boys' mother, Mrs Figueira, was killed in her bed either late on March 4 or early on March 5. Officers at the family home in south-west London described discovering her body in the master bedroom. She was lying on her back on the bed, with a large amount of blood around her neck and chest. Twickenham: Forensic officers exit a house in South Road / PA Wounds on her hands and fingers suggest she attempted to fight back, though she may not have been awake when the attack started. A knife, which had been put through a dishwasher cycle and may have been the weapon, as well as blood-stained clothes were later discovered at the house, the inquest was told. Quoting from a post-mortem report from consultant forensic pathologist Dr Olaf Biedrzycki, Mr Cummings said: "Injuries at this point could be considered as indication of so-called defensive wounds. For at least the initial part of the attack, the deceased was awake and alert as the attack occurred and made attempts to defend herself." The inquest heard Mrs Figueira suffered more than 60 wounds. The coroner ruled that all three members of the family were killed unlawfully, calling the attack on Mrs Figueira "particularly savage and brutal", while a separate inquest was then opened for Mr Figueira de Faria. Notes were found on the downstairs dining room table which revealed his despair and anguish with the world. Acquaintances recalled that he had seemed depressed leading up to his death. There was no evidence that the couple, who moved to London in November 2015 from Venezuela, had worked during their time in the UK, he said. He added that their rental tenancy was due to be imminently renewed. The family had potentially reached a "pinch-point" in their finances he said, but said they could not find one specific reason for what had taken place. The boys were said to be happy and popular children and there had been no concern for their welfare. Mr Cummings added the deaths of the boys and their mother were an "inexplicable puzzle". Concluding that Mr Figueira de Faria died by suicide, Mr Cummings said: "This is a terribly sad case and I think DS Flynn put it very well when he said that Adelino simply could not see a way forward, and the family have my sincere condolences." A man who was killed when a car was used as a murder weapon was a father who had come to London to provide for his children, his family said today. Detectives launched a murder investigation after Constantin Sin, 52, was rammed by a white Toyota Prius following a brawl in a chicken shop in Leytonstone in the early hours of Sunday. He died in hospital later that day. Mr Sins family today said he came to the capital to provide for his wife, 20-year-old daughter and 15-year-old son who had all remained in his native Romania. Relatives told the Evening Standard: He was hard-working and loving. He came to England three years ago to work and earn money for his wife and children in Romania. Now his family have no father and no money. I dont know how someone can do this. They have taken everything away from his family. His children now must grow up without a father. Mr Sins brother added: I loved my brother, he was a good man. Ionut Bostan, 32, was also struck by the car and has since been discharged from hospital. Mr Bostan told the Standard: Im extremely scared, those people wanted to kill us. I am more scared now than at the time. I dont remember much from the night, I was in hospital, and I cant believe what happened. Witnesses told how Mr Sin was struck by the car travelling at high speed after the fight in the takeaway. They said the vehicle had been used as a murder weapon. One man, who was at The Bell pub, said: The blokes came out of the chicken shop fighting. Two of them started to leave and one of the other blokes got into his car, a white Prius, and just went after the two of them. Other relatives paid tribute to the victim on social media, and flowers and candles were left at the scene in Leytonstone High Road. Police were called to reports of a collision at 12.40am and Mr Sin died in hospital the same day at 5.18pm. F ormer Atomic Kitten star Kerry Katona has been fined 500 after failing to send one of her children to school. The Im A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! winner pleaded guilty after, at its lowest point, her childs attendance fell to just 48 per cent. Ms Katona had been expected to represent herself but did not appear in court, with a solicitor entering a guilty plea on her behalf at Brighton Magistrates' Court on Wednesday. The court heard that Ms Katona, of Crowborough, East Sussex, failed to send one of her five children to school between April and November last year. File photo: Ms Katona was fined 500 for the offence / PA It is the second time the 38-year-old has been convicted of such an offence. Prosecutor Gareth Jones, representing East Sussex County Council, told the court that, at the lowest point, the child's attendance was 48 per cent. He said of Ms Katona: "There's a failure to engage here. She's not attending meetings. Letters are not being responded to. "This is a problem that has gone on for some time." Ed Fish, defending, said some of the unauthorised absences were because Ms Katona could not get childcare while she was working. On other occasions she had not told the school the child - who cannot be named for legal reasons - was ill. He said: "She understands it fell below what was expected of her. "On occasions (the child) missed school due to Kerry Katona's work commitments. She's not had childcare and has to take the children to work. "She understands she should maintain better contact with the school. "The attendance has not been the worst (the court has seen)." Katona was previously warned that she could be sent to jail when she failed to attend an earlier court hearing. She had written to the court asking for an adjournment because she was taking part in a "paid event" in Scotland. The court heard that Katona's financial situation was "not great" and she had been subject to bankruptcy but she was "anxious" to provide for her children. Katona was given 14 days to pay the fine as well as 325 in costs and a 100 surcharge. Magistrates had initially handed her a fine of 1,000 but were forced to halve this after protestations from lawyers that this was the maximum penalty for the offence and they had not taken her guilty plea into account. A man is being hunted by detectives over a vicious hammer attack and making threats to kill. Satheesan Appu, 42, left his victim with a facial injury, the Metropolitan Police said. The force released an image and description of Appu, but warned the public not to approach him if he is spotted and instead dial 999 immediately. Pc Dave Whaley said: My team and I are committed to finding Appu and bringing him into custody. The victim in this case remains very worried that Appu remains at large in London and we need the publics help in order to locate and arrest him. Appu is described as Asian and 5ft 9in with black hair. He had a moustache, although investigators think he may have tried to change his appearance by shaving off his facial hair. Police said Appu is known to frequent East Ham and Ilford in east London, but could be in the Newham or Redbridge areas of the capital. He also has no fixed address and could be sleeping rough. P olice descended on a road in south London this afternoon where an armed man was holding a woman against her will. Officers were called just after 1pm on Wednesday to reports of a woman in her 20s in danger at a home. She was being prevented from leaving a property in Daysbrook Road, Streatham, by a man armed with a knife, the Met Police said. Police arrested the man at the scene more than six hours after the incident began. Officers said the victim and the suspect were known to each other. Police said the woman was not injured during the incident. Video from the scene shows a number of police cars and an ambulance behind police tape on the junction with Palace Road. A police spokesman said specialist units had been dealing with the incident. L ondon's fire chief today called on the Government to introduce tougher building regulations without further delay to prevent another Grenfell Tower-style tragedy. London Fire Brigade Commissioner Dany Cotton said advice about sprinklers had been ignored and developers must now be required to include them in designs. Ms Cotton said: We now need the Government to act without further delay to ensure we have robust legislation and regulation in place to make buildings safer. For too long our fire safety advice on sprinklers has been ignored. Developers must be required to include sprinklers in building design and especially in purpose-built residential blocks and homes where vulnerable people live. Ms Cotton and Fiona Twycross, the deputy mayor for fire and resilience, have also written to Communities Secretary James Brokenshire asking for more skilled fire specialists. Dany Cotton has previously told of her shock after arriving at the scene of the fire / PA They said there is a shortage of skilled engineers which needed to be tackled with urgent and targeted investment from the Government. They also said that since Dame Judith Hackitts review into building regulations which was published almost a year ago there has been no clarity from the Government on the next steps. The Government has said it would make fundamental changes to building regulations and implement all the recommendations made by the review, which was conducted after the tower blaze that claimed 72 lives in June 2017. A panel of experts were expected to meet at City Hall today to discuss fire safety in the capital. Darren Rodwell, London Councils executive member for housing, said: Following the fire at Grenfell, boroughs put immense effort and resources into carrying out essential remedial works. While a lot of safety improvements have been achieved, more change is needed at national policy level. We cant afford to lose momentum the Government must listen and urgently address these continuing concerns. A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said: We are committed to improving building safety and are taking forward all the recommendations made by Dame Judith Hackitt in her independent review of building regulations and fire safety. We have said we will consult in the spring in more detail, and that remains our aim. She added that necessary future legislation will be brought forward at the earliest opportunity. T wo Made In Chelsea sisters have enraged one of Britains most distinguished opera stars with plans to serve alcohol on Sunday mornings at their vegan restaurant. Baritone Sir Thomas Allen said the plans by the restaurant set up by Lucy and Tiffany Watson were entirely inappropriate for the area in Fulham. The reality TV stars opened their vegan hotspot called Tell Your Friends in New Kings Road, Parsons Green, last year. Their father Clive Watson, chairman of the City Pub Group, also appeared in the show and helped set up the diner. However, a number of residents have objected to their latest proposal to serve alcohol from 10am on Sundays two hours earlier than the current licence allows. It says it wants to allow for brunch with sparkling wine, Bloody Marys etc. The application by The City Pub Group has also asked to remove a condition that means they must keep the front doors closed. Sir Thomas, who is the chancellor of Durham University, wrote to Hammersmith and Fulham council saying the hours were excessive. Famous for the role of Don Giovanni, the 74-year-old gave his final performance after 40 years at the Royal Opera House in March. He wrote: The need to sell alcohol from 10am also beggars belief ... these hours of alcohol availability do not at all tally with the restaurant purporting to operate under health-driven vegan principles. The application seems clearly to have been kept on hold by the owners following several months of operation masquerading as one thing, only now to reveal its true colours as a late-operating, inevitably rowdy, drinking establishment not the vegan outlet it purports to be. The proposal is entirely inappropriate to the area and will lead to endless conflict between customers and residents who have enjoyed and assumed a quiet lifestyle. His wife Jeannie Allen, a former model, also objected to the application. They were joined by other neighbours including Monika Miler who said the plan would destroy the ambience of the neighbourhood. A letter from the restaurants solicitors in response to neighbours concerns said they would add two conditions: ensuring the sale of alcohol from 10am to noon is ancillary to the provision of substantial food and that front doors would remain closed from 9pm. The letter from the firm Joelson said: The premises is a good neighbour and operates as a quiet vegan restaurant where alcohol sales are only 15 per cent of overall turnover. Given this, the assurances given above and the proffering of two additional conditions, the applicant hopes that local residents now have the necessary reassurances. T heresa May suffered another blow today when a fifth Cabinet minister began openly campaigning to take over her job. In an extraordinary interview, Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom declared she was seriously considering standing for the Conservative leadership when Mrs May goes. In an apparent jibe at the wounded Prime Minister, she said a determined Brexiteer like herself could have taken the UK out of the European Union by now. Mrs Leadsoms move left Mrs May looking more vulnerable than ever in a Cabinet whose members are already jockeying for position. In a second blow to Mrs May, International Trade Secretary Liam Fox criticised No 10s attempts to strike a deal with Jeremy Corbyn on the UK remaining in a customs union one of Labours key demands in the Brexit talks. TODO: define component type apester At a trade conference in London, he said it would be bad for Britain and leave access to the UKs markets as a commodity to be traded by Brussels. The EU would be able to make access to the UK market part of their offer in any trade agreement and we would find ourselves in a unique position in our trading history in that we would be being traded. "We would be a commodity in that particular agreement, where the EU would be able to offer access to the UK as part of their offer, he said. Prime Minister Theresa May is facing pressure to announce her departure / REUTERS Its a situation that would leave the UK as a rule-taker and, in terms of our ability to shape trade policy, would probably leave us in a worse situation than we are today, inside the EU. Former Cabinet minister Justine Greening launched a broadside from the backbenches, comparing Mrs Mays team to captains on the Titanic, simultaneously rearranging the deck chairs whilst also blaming the iceberg for not getting out of the way. Writing on the Conservative Home website, she added: This position is sinking our party and it must change. Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis will address Tory backbenchers at the 1922 Committee this evening, it emerged, in an attempt to rally troops ahead of European elections that are expected to end in a big defeat for the Tories. TODO: define component type apester There was frustration among senior Tory Right-wingers that Mrs May has so far refused to set a departure timetable, despite being pressed to do so by 1922 Committee chairman Sir Graham Brady. One said reports that Mrs May intends to stay on as leader into the autumn, including the party conference, had infuriated colleagues. It will not wash, said the MP, who went on: Kicking the can down the road after appalling local elections and wasting 150 million on European elections is a failure of Corbyn and May which will have severe consequences for both parties which are displaying a reckless disregard for competence. The infighting follows a weekend in which four Cabinet rivals appeared to press their credentials as potential Conservative Party leaders. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt returned from a visit to Africa with his wife Lucia, talking about how he never takes off the watch she gave him, while Home Secretary Sajid Javid made a speech about how his father ran a market stall selling clothes made by his mother on the kitchen table. Environment Secretary Michael Gove pleased farmers by stripping Natural England of its power to issue licences to shoot wild birds, and Cabinet newboy Rory Stewart admitted in a Commons committee he had expressed an interest in becoming Conservative leader. Mrs Leadsom, 55, told Good Morning Britain: Ive supported her [Mrs May] for the last three years to get Brexit over the line and she has said she is going so, yes, Im seriously considering standing. Asked about Brexit, she suggested it would be over by now if a dedicated Brexiteer had been running the country: If youd had a determined Brexiteer, I suspect things might have been different. We might have been out by now on WTO [World Trade Organisation] terms, but on the other hand you would have left the country very divided. Describing herself as an absolutely determined Brexiteer, she said of the withdrawal agreement: Im absolutely sticking with the Prime Minister to help her get her deal over the line. Mrs Leadsom attacked MPs for blocking the deal, saying: Im disgusted at the fact that nearly three years on and we still have not left the EU. We should have been out by March 29. There is a fundamental problem with the way that Parliament is interpreting what leaving the EU means. Other Cabinet ministers being encouraged to run for leader include Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt and Chief Secretary to the Treasury Liz Truss. Ex-minister Robert Halfon hit out at Mrs Mays leadership today, as he described the current state of the Tory Party as a shitshow. Writing for ConservativeHome, he said the party should apologise to councillors who lost their seats at the local elections over the partys disastrous handling of Brexit at a national level. On a future general election, he said: We are heading towards a 1997-type defeat unless we make fundamental and radical changes to our party machinery and to our policies and deliver, as instructed, a good Brexit. H es standing for election under a party label that doesnt quite exist, in a contest that shouldnt be happening, in a place that isnt a country but none of this puts Andrew Adonis off. The Mediterranean sun glints off his EU electric-blue tie as he strides through Gibraltars old town, its solid limestone walls reeking of the days when the Royal Navy called this peculiar bastion home. Adonis academic-turned-journalist-turned-Tony Blair policy wonk-turned-peer is doing what he has never done before in a long career shaping Britain, and standing in a national election. Hes on the list for the Labour Party in the South West constituency which, thanks to a quirk, includes Gibraltars 20,000 voters even though they live as close to Sierra Leone as they do to Plymouth. Placed in care as a child and brought up in a council childrens home before gaining a place at Oxford, Adonis is no run-of-the-mill Westminster politician. Now hes using his unique blend of hardcore Twitter trolling and cerebral persuasiveness to fight for a party he calls Remain Labour. He uses the title all the time, oblivious to the fact that Jeremy Corbyn doesnt lead any such thing. His quick-fire certainty is such that he can bend reality to his will. Go back a year and I was in a tiny, tiny minority calling for a second referendum, he says. If one takes place Adonis will be one of the reasons why. The issue for Labour is becoming the overwhelmingly dominant party of Remain because that is the way we can stop Brexit, he says. His message is that only a big Labour vote can stop Nigel Farages movement coming first. He does not seem chastened by a row over a Facebook post in which he seemed to tolerate a Labour Brexit a sign, said some, that he was compromising with Corbyn. Countdown to Brexit: 176 days until Britain leaves the EU As he tours Gibraltar trying to urge trade unionists to support Labour in the 2014 elections only 659 people backed the party with the clearly pro-European Lib-Dems far ahead he insists Labour wont take Britain out without another vote. But a Corbyn speech which barely mentions Brexit pops up online as we walk, and produces furrowed brows. Adoniss style is that of a fluent historian who has already written the book on how the Brexit story will end with Britain still in the EU. On Twitter recently he compared a crucial meeting of Labours National Executive Committee to the partys decision in May 1940 to join Churchill in government. But, I point out, when it came to the crunch the NEC vote was lost by supporters of a referendum. Hes touring Gibraltar with the frank and engaging Manuel Cortes, a British trade union boss born in the territory who sits on the NEC. The pro-European Cortes was on the losing side. As a result, the official party line on Brexit is a fudge: If we cant get changes to their bad deal or a general election, Labour backs the option of a public vote, says a party leaflet posted through my front door this week. That hardly sounds like clear support for Remain Labour, I say to Adonis. We are getting to the right place in stages it didnt all happen in one meeting, it moved halfway, he admits. But if Remain Labour is real then why hasnt Jeremy Corbyn pressed for a referendum in talks with the Government on getting a Brexit deal? He hopes that Brexit might bring down the Government and cause a general election, Adonis says. The partys Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer has raised the issue of a referendum, he points out. So why hasnt Starmer called for one in all circumstances, as Adonis does? The would-be MEPs response is revealing about both his confidence in Corbyn and in what might follow. Keir hasnt said that yet. I hope he will because he could then be the leader who would take us into the referendum, he says. I see myself holding the fort until figures like Keir occupy the citadel. At the moment they are at the gates. I need them in the citadel. He is firm on where the talks will go otherwise: I dont think there is any possibility of a deal [with the Tories] without agreement on a referendum. He thinks a compromise waiting to be done is we vote for a Tory deal with a referendum. He would tolerate although not support a three-way referendum with no deal as an option too, although I dont believe in putting unicorns on the ballot paper. To some of Adoniss friends his persistence with Labour is infuriating. He says he has got used to being called names by Lib-Dems. I am a social democrat. I havent changed my politics since I was 18, he says. Adonis has always been a champion of the liberal, reforming home secretary Roy Jenkins who helped lead the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the Sixties. Gay himself, Adonis has not spoken of it in public before, but says he is happy and at ease with who I am. He is still happy in Labour too. If the Labour Party had been overwhelmingly taken over by people who were extreme Left then obviously I couldnt belong to it, he says. In his view that point hasnt been reached and, almost regardless, he sees unity as crucial to stopping Brexit: Unless we hold together, Brexit will happen. So doesnt it pain him to see the anti-Brexit vote being split between a multitude of parties including the Greens, Lib-Dems and Change UK? Unfortunately in British politics you cant abolish parties. The proportional system used in the European elections in Britain makes electoral pacts hard but he points out that if we had first past the post in this election we would be in a really terrible position with Nigel Farage. I remember being with Adonis a couple of years back when he tried to send one of his first tweets. Since then hes used Twitter to tear into everything from the BBC to pay in a way that often looks divisive, effective and a bit below the belt doing to his opponents what the alt-Right did to mainstream politics. Is it fair? I only attack people because they are acting as agents of Brexit, he says. In fact, he thinks he should go further. I feel an overwhelming responsibility to lead this. I think I am too restrained. My critique of myself over the past year is that if I had been more successful in leading the Remain Labour cause then people wouldnt be questioning in this election whether Labour is a Remain party so I reproach myself. Adonis is a man who believes good policy and human drive can change the world: hes obsessed with transport, dismayed that Gibraltar has no railway but delighted to discover that it has a free bus network. He darts off suddenly, spotting a bus heading for a destination called Referendum House. Thats where he wants to pilot Labour too. Pune, India, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Market Outlook Global Healthcare BPO Market is projected to experience 12.3% CAGR from 2017 to 2023 (forecast period), asserts Market Research Future (MRFR) in its latest report. Healthcare business process outsourcing (BPO) solution providers simplify processes and enhance productivity in hospitals. The market valuation is predicted to touch USD 449,623.8 million by 2023 by reducing human errors found in billing and patient health records. The healthcare industry faces challenges due to advanced technologies, patient expectations, and rollout of new policies. The industry aims to alleviate its problems by outsourcing it to countries with skilled manpower and knowledge. The healthcare BPO market aims to streamline its processes using a mix of technology and personnel. Request Free Sample @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/1335 Competition Analysis Well-known names in the healthcare BPO market include Cognizant, IBM, Accenture, HCL, Quintiles, Sykes, and Infosys. The market is characterized by acquisitions, contract renewals, changing policies in Europe and North America, and adoption of new digital technologies. In 2019, Conduent Inc announced the acquisition of Health Solutions Plus, a major developer of healthcare payor administration solutions. This move can be monumental for the company and assist in cementing its position in the healthcare BPO industry. Major Drivers MT Services - Medical transcription (MT) services are one of the biggest drivers of the healthcare BPO market with voice notes being recorded and translated into various languages. The digitization of data by skilled personnel saves time of doctors while examining patients. In addition, the patient information and medical history assist in rapid diagnosis. Automation - Adoption of robotic process automation, big data, and artificial intelligence will set the benchmark for humans and bots coexisting to assist in collection of patient data. For instance, HGS handles the enrollment process of patients looking for insurance. The company uses bots for autofilling information in the right fields and saving time. Industry News Cloud BPO Cloud BPO or Business-Process-as-a-Service (BPaaS) is a business model used by BPOs to scale their processes without fear of incurring high capital expenditure costs. For instance, Infosys is the reputed partner of Aetna Inc., a pharmaceutical major in the U.S. It provided knowledge training to its personnel for handling queries of patients effectively thereby saving costs for the company. Additionally, it developed a management information system (MIS) for compiling a database of patients and their respective health-related data for easy access in case of claims. Furthermore, the integration of deep learning and machine learning for automating repetitive tasks is likely to be a positive step for players for handling the voluminous amount of patient data. Omni-channel Experience Insurance companies have heeded to the needs of their customers by embracing the services of BPOs for delivering quality experiences. Large cost of combating chronic diseases coupled with the focus on electronic storage of data is likely to work favorably for the healthcare BPO market. It can cater to patient needs by providing support through voice, chat, SMS, and social media channels. Nearshoring The trend has come up as a better alternative to offshoring which has been under heavy scrutiny and taxed heavily due to changing political scenarios. Europe is an attractive destination with countries such as Bulgaria, Romania, and the Czech Republic relaxing labor laws and possessing an impressive workforce for providing services to customers. A Deeper Look at Segmentation The global Healthcare BPO Market is segmented by services. Services discussed in the market report include provider services, payer services, and pharmaceutical services. Pharmaceutical services held the largest market share in 2016 and anticipated to register 12.4% CAGR over the assessment period to accumulate close to USD 329,000.3 million by 2023. This can be attributed to expired patents of blockbuster drugs, changing clinical trial policies, and the use of 3D printing in the manufacture of pills. Browse the market data and information spread across 85 pages with 33 data tables and 13 figures of the report Healthcare BPO Market- Forecast 2017-2023 in-depth alongside table of content (TOC) at: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/healthcare-bpo-market-1335 Regional Scope By geographical location, the healthcare BPO market is segmented into Asia Pacific (APAC), the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East & Africa (MEA). The Americas dominated in 2016 by holding close to 57.3% share of the healthcare BPO market. A stable economy, supportive policies, and a well-defined healthcare framework aimed to assist patients are few of the drivers of the regional market. High healthcare expenditure and integration of new technologies have led to leaders in healthcare solutions looking to cut costs drastically. The growth is aided by the large patient pool in Canada and the U.S. Europe held the second spot in the global healthcare BPO market with major revenue generated by Germany, France, and the U.K. The increased healthcare budget of these countries aided by regulatory support from their respective governments can fuel the regional market growth till 2023. Lastly, the APAC region is projected to display a stellar growth rate over the forecast period owing to improvements in healthcare infrastructure. India, the Philippines, and Malaysia are prime destinations for companies willing to outsource their solutions at cost-effective costs. India, in particular, is highly attractive for outsourcing solutions owing to skilled personnel with the capability of handling billing and insurance claims. In addition, developing healthcare industry and emergence of various local players are bound to work favorably for the APAC healthcare BPO market. Make an Enquiry Before Buying this Report @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/1335 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), & Consulting Services. MRFR team have supreme objective to provide the optimum quality market research and intelligence services to our clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help to answer all their most important questions. In order to stay updated with technology and work process of the industry, MRFR often plans & conducts meet with the industry experts and industrial visits for its research analyst members. T he United States has urged Prime Minister Theresa May and the Government to resolve the impasse over Brexit in order to push ahead with a trade deal with the UK. President Donald Trump is eager to strike a trade deal with the UK after it leaves the European Union, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on a visit to the Foreign Office. His comments came just weeks before Mr Trump's state visit to the UK, a trip the president was "very much looking forward to", according to Mr Pompeo. The US Secretary of State held talks in Downing Street with the Prime Minister before a joint press conference with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. Mike Pompeo with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt / REUTERS Speaking in the Foreign Office, Mr Pompeo said: "Brexit has obviously been a hot topic here. "I reiterated to the Prime Minister as well as to Foreign Secretary Hunt that it is the United Kingdom's sovereign, democratic choice on how it will proceed, but also that no matter what happens the United States will continue our strong relationship with both the UK and the EU. "Our great hope is that Brexit can be resolved soon because President Trump is eager to strike a bilateral trade agreement that expands on our number one trade relationship." He added: "President Trump is very much looking forward to his visit here next month and commemorating D-Day with our great allies." Mr Trump has previously expressed surprise about the protracted nature of the Brexit process. "I'm surprised at how badly it's all gone from the standpoint of a negotiation," he said in March. Donald Trump is 'eager' to strike a trade with the US, Mr Pompeo said / AP Mr Pompeo's comments came after it was revealed yesterday that cross-party Brexit talks had again failed to reach an agreement. Shadow business secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey confirmed negotiations on a new deal that could win a parliamentary majority have still to bear fruit. "Nothing has been agreed yet," she said after a three-hour meeting, which she labelled "very robust". Ms Long-Bailey said there had been no movement towards a customs union, temporary or otherwise, and would only say another referendum was "one of many options" Cross-party Brexit talks failed again on Tuesday / REUTERS She said: "We haven't had any movement or agreement on a customs union, certainly not today, but we will see what the rest of the week holds. "Our policy position has not changed since the last Labour conference, where a public vote was one of many options on the table, certainly to avoid a Tory deal, a bad Tory Brexit or a no-deal situation. "Certainly we've been exploring the issue of a confirmatory vote in these discussions, but as yet nothing has been agreed." T heresa May has refused to set out a timetable for her departure from No 10 amid growing pressure from rebel Tory MPs to make way for a new leader. The chairman of the Conservative backbench 1922 Committee Sir Graham Brady, speaking after a private meeting with the Prime Minister, made clear she had not offered any further clarity about her future. He said she would meet the committee's 18-strong executive next week amid grass roots fury over the party's worst local elections performance in 24 years. Sir Graham told the BBC: There is no public clarity about that timetable but it is clear that the Prime Minister wishes and is determined to do her best to secure our departure from the EU with an early second reading of the legislation and that her departure is tied very closely with that process. He said he would meet the 1922 Committees 18-strong executive next week amid grassroots fury over the partys worst local election performance in 24 years. Sir Graham Brady, Chairman of the 1922 Committee / PA Sir Graham suggested Mrs May could make a final effort to get her Brexit deal through Parliament before the European elections on May 23, when the party is expected to suffer even heavier losses. He said he expected ministers to bring forward the Withdrawal Agreement Bill in the "near future". "The executive is very keen to meet the Prime Minister and will have a full opportunity to discuss and to reach whatever conclusions it wishes to reach next week," Sir Graham said. "It's my understanding it's the Government's intention to bring a second reading of the Bill forward in the near future, certainly the intention is before the European election takes place." At Prime Minister's Questions earlier, Mrs May faced a direct call from a Conservative MP to stand down. Theresa May during PMQs / PA Brexit-backing Andrea Jenkyns told Mrs May she had "failed" in EU withdrawal negotiations and forfeited the trust of the public. "The public no longer trust her to run Brexit negotiations," she said. "Isn't it time to step aside and let someone else lead our country, our party and the Brexit negotiations?" Mrs May retorted: "This is not an issue about me and it's not an issue about her. If it were an issue about me and the way I vote, we would already have left the European Union." Downing Street made clear the Prime Minister was not ready to go beyond her earlier promise to the 1922 to quit as Tory leader when the first phase of Brexit negotiations is complete. "The PM made a very generous and bold offer to the 1922 Committee a few weeks ago that she would see through phase one of the Brexit process and she would leave and open up for new leadership for phase two," a Downing Street source said. "That's the timetable she is working towards. She wants to get Brexit done." With her effective deputy David Lidington suggesting he hoped a deal could be concluded by July, there is speculation she may seek to hang on until the annual party conference in the autumn. Nigel Evans, the executive secretary of the 1922, warned she would need to give MPs some greater certainty before then, telling the BBC: August 1 is the next new date. "It could be kicked down the road even further. That's not what we want. We want some clarity from the Prime Minister." Meanwhile, Cabinet minister Andrea Leadsom said she is "seriously considering" standing for the Conservative leadership, which will be triggered when Mrs May stands down. Ms Leadsom, who stood for the leadership in 2016 but pulled out to give Mrs May a clear run at the job, told ITV1's Good Morning Britain: "I've supported her for the last three years to get Brexit over the line. "She has said she's going so yes I am seriously considering standing." Andrea Leadsom / Good Morning Britain Meanwhile, talks on a compromise deal were continuing in Whitehall, with Labour insisting the Government still needs to shift on its red lines. Mr Lidington said there was a responsibility on all parties to try to find a way out of the deadlock. "It has been difficult at times - I won't deny that - because there are differences between the two political parties," he said. "But I think all Members of Parliament have a responsibility to try to work together." TODO: define component type apester A Downing Street spokesman said talks were continuing in a "serious and constructive" way. He declined to put a deadline on a conclusion but said there was "an understanding on both sides that we need to get on with this". A Labour source indicated the talks could not continue "indefinitely". "It's not an indefinite process and we are looking to nail down in the next few days whether and how far the Government is prepared to move from its failed deal, which has been rejected three times in Parliament," the source said. J eremy Corbyn is facing calls to quit as patron of a pro-Palestinian lobbying group after an Evening Standard investigation found campaigners sharing a swathe of malevolent anti-Semitic propaganda. The Labour leader has been closely associated for two decades with the Palestine Solidarity Campaign. PSC says it fights racism and is the largest organisation in the UK dedicated to securing Palestinian human rights. However, close inspection of local PSC branches across the country reveals activists are sharing anti-Semitic cartoons of Jews and conspiracy theories about Israel controlling the world. A Standard investigation found such images as a cartoon comparing Israeli Jews with white power neo-Nazis, an ugly caricature of a Jew sowing hand grenades in a field, and an image of Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu bathing in Palestinian blood posing with Adolf Hitler. All were posted in the name of local branches of the PSC, despite the organisation insisting it is unequivocally opposed to anti-Semitism. Deputy Leader of the Labour Party Tom Watson was attacked in one post / REUTERS Another post attacked Mr Corbyns deputy, Tom Watson, who has called for anti-Semitism to be rooted out of Labour, calling him an agent of the Israeli state. It is another blow to Mr Corbyn after months of criticism over his handling of anti-Jewish abuse. Amanda Bowman, vice-president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, described the posts as anti-Jewish racism and added: Jeremy Corbyn must now publicly disassociate himself from this malevolent group. Jewish MP Ruth Smeeth said: Equating Jews with Nazis, endorsing anti-Semitic tropes and dismissing instances of British anti-Jewish hate is vile and shouldnt be tolerated by anyone, never mind those who purport to be on the political Left. I would urge Jeremy Corbyn to speak out and remove his patronage from the organisation until they have condemned their supporters and expelled those who are filled with hate. Karen Pollock of the Holocaust Educational Trust said: The deliberate use and abuse of the murder of six million Jewish men, women and children to score political points is beyond the pale. One Facebook post by the Waltham Forest PSC in December last year carried a cartoon of a Jewish man sowing the promised land with bombs. An Instagram account called Brixton PSC shared conspiracy memes this year including the one that smeared Mr Watson as a corrupt Israeli agent. It also posted a photo of Palestinians queuing next to a border wall with the words: 21st century concentrations camp? No, just Palestinians coming home from their Israeli slave jobs. Leeds PSC claimed on Facebook that the Jewish Labour Movement, which passed a motion of no confidence in Mr Corbyn, was behind an anti-Corbyn campaign. The same group posted a cartoon in 2017 in which neo-Nazis with swastikas are likened to Jewish men with an Israeli flag screaming Kill all Arabs. Manchester PSC tweeted a graph comparing Israel and the Nazi regime, with a swastika flag. Luton PSC has shared posts which liken Hitler to Mr Netanyahu, and a graphic meme that compared victims in Buchenwald concentration camp to an image of a West Bank checkpoint. Nine MPs quit the Labour Party this year, many citing the leaderships handling of anti-Semitism. One, Ian Austin, said: Jeremy Corbyn cant dismiss the shocking evidence uncovered by the Standards investigation and no one will believe he is campaigning for peace when he only ever speaks to one side of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Many of the posts breach the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of anti-Semitism, adopted by Labour in full last year. Mr Corbyn has spoken at PSC events, led marches and handed in petitions to No 10 on behalf of the group, whose aims include an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestine. T he Duke and Duchess today announced the name of their newborn son hours after giving the world a first glimpse of their baby. Baby Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was shown off by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle today at the first of what is certain to be many photo calls for the youngest addition to the royal family. While there are courtesy titles that Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Sussex could apply to their son, they have chosen not to give him a courtesy title at this time. Therefore he will be known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The Queen meets the latest addition to the royal family (Chris Allerton/SussexRoyal) / Chris Allerton/SussexRoyal/PA Announcing the child's name, Meghan and Harry said on Instagram: "The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are please to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. "This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen to her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. "The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess' mother were also present for this special occasion." TODO: define component type apester Earlier, a relaxed looking Duke and Duchess of Sussex proudly showed off two-day-old Archie. The Duchess declared: "It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy." The baby was born on Monday morning (Dominic Lipinski/PA ) / PA As her husband held their son, Meghan added: "He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm." Harry said: "I don't know who he gets that from." Beaming Harry and Meghan show off the new arrival (Dominic Lipinski/PA ) / PA The couple laughed together as the shared their child with the world. Meghan added: "He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days." Proud parents: Harry and Meghan / Sky News Harry added: "Another great grandchild." Later, asked to show more of their son's face to the cameras, Meghan laughed as Harry joked: "He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well, wonderful." Meghan added: "Thank you everybody for all the well wishes and kindness, it just means so much." The child is seventh in line for the throne / Dominic Lipinski/PA Harry said: "Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks we're basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really. But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows." Asked how he found parenting, Harry added: "It's great. Parenting is amazing. It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy." First glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan's newborn son - In pictures 1 /28 First glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan's newborn son - In pictures The Duke and Duchess of Sussex gave the world its first glimpse of the royal baby PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are joined by her mother, Doria Ragland, as they show their new son, born Monday and named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle Chris Allerton/SussexRoyal/PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born last month Dominic Lipinski/PA Meghan said Harry and her son were the "best two guys in the world" Dominic Lipinski/PA Their son was born in the small hours of Monday morning PA The Queen is due to be the first royal to meet the baby PA The Duchess said the birth of the child was "magic" PA Dominic Lipinski/PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed the name of their son on Wednesday as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor PA PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Sky News Sky News Harry said they were looking forward to spending some "precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up." Asked about going to see the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, Meghan said: "We just bumped into the Duke as we were walking by which was so nice. So it'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well." Baby Archie is seventh in line to the throne and the Queens eighth great grandchild. He was born at 5.26am on Monday morning weighing 7lb 3oz. It was also revealed that the Queen will meet her new great grandson today. Buckingham Palace confirmed the monarch will be introduced to her grandson at Windsor by the proud father and mother Harry and Meghan. Prince Philip is in Windsor too and could meet the baby boy as well. The Queen is the first member of the royal family to meet the baby boy who is seventh in line to the throne. Harry and Meghan had always insisted there would be a short gap between the birth and their sons first public engagement to allow themselves precious private time as a family. They are said to have been desperate to avoid the media circus that surrounded the births of the three children of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It is thought the baby was delivered at private Portland Hospital in Marylebone after original plans to have the birth at home at Frogmore Cottage, Windsor, had to be abandoned on medical advice because the 37 year old Meghan was past her due date. However, this has not yet been confirmed by the Palace. Reports suggest that Harry, Meghan and her mother Dorian Ragland were driven in a two car convoy the 27 miles from Windsor to the hospital late on Sunday evening. Todays images will be beamed across the world and will be seen by tens of millions of royalty obsessed Americans on morning prime time breakfast shows. A 68-year-old Falklands veteran is planning to sue the Ministry of Defence after claiming he was kicked out of the navy for being bisexual. Joe Ousalice was cleared at a court martial in 1993 after being accused of being in bed with another sailor. He had denied the charge, which the service said was prejudicial to good order and naval discipline. Despite being cleared, he said he was forced to reveal his bisexuality to the court and was discharged from the Navy because he might "corrupt" others. The Navy confiscated his military honours, including a medal and three Good Conduct badges, at the time of his dismissal. He is taking the Ministry of Defence to court in a bid to have these returned. In his 18-year naval career he served in the Falklands, Northern Ireland and the Middle East. Mr Ousalice's lawyers, from human rights organisation Liberty, argue he was discharged "entirely because of his sexuality". Mr Ousalice (left) hopes to have his honours returned / Liberty/PA Wire The group also wants other medals that were confiscated from military personnel because of their sexuality to be returned. Mr Ousalice said he lived a "double life" while he was in the Navy, stating he was careful not to associate with other sailors whom he knew were gay. "I was watching every day what I was saying, what I was doing," he told the BBC. "After the court martial was completed, a guy came in with a pair of scissors and said 'Sorry, mate, I need your medal', and just cut the medal off me. "The fact that I had been to the Middle East, to the Falklands, to Northern Ireland six times means a lot to me and that medal is proof to me that I was good enough for all those years, and yet somebody can just come and take it from you." A Ministry of Defence spokesman said it would be "inappropriate" to comment as legal proceedings are ongoing. "We are currently looking at how personnel discharged from service because of their sexuality, or now abolished sexual offences, can have their medals returned," he added. T he first computer generated images of the temporary House of Commons chamber were revealed today. The new chamber will be located in a redeveloped Richmond House, Whitehall, the former Department for Health building vacated in early 2018. It comes as part of design proposals for Parliaments Northern Estate, the first step in a huge restoration project for the Palace of Westminster. The total costs of the Northern Estate Programme plans, which will include work across eight different buildings, are estimated to be in the range of 1.4bn to 1.6bn. The new Richmond House building is described as being of exceptional architectural quality and was designed by Stirling Prize winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, one of the UKs leading architecture practices. The redeveloped Richmond House forms part of a huge restoration project for the Palace of Westminster / Forbes Massie Studio Today design proposals were launched for consultation. Tom Brake MP, spokesman for the House of Commons Commission, said: Across the UK and the world the Palace of Westminster is recognised as an icon of democracy and yet the building itself is in increasingly urgent need of repair. The plans we are launching for consultation today are the essential first step towards ensuring it can be protected for future generations, as well as delivering a transformed Parliamentary Estate. At Richmond House, the site of the new temporary House of Commons, we have an exceptional and flexible new building that improves public access to democracy. A nger about Brexit runs deep in Putney. The riverside community voted 75 per cent Remain one of the most emphatic results in London. But it is also a highly marginal Conservative parliamentary constituency, whose MP Justine Greening finds herself in the crossfire between voters who like her are deeply opposed to Brexit, and others who are furious that Theresa May has failed to deliver. As the European elections loom, it seems only one party is the focus of voters ire the Tories. Finishing a row on the Thames, Julia Barnes said: I was against Brexit. I would like a second referendum. Its so divisive, it is ripping the country apart. The former management consultant, in her fifties, said she has begun to feel lets get it done in the hope that a positive outcome will be found. Putney residents Margie Slade, 46, and Julia Barnes, 50 I think the Tories will be affected, she said of the election. Whether its right or wrong, there will be negativity. I think [Tory voters] want someone to get it done. Her friend Margie, a 46-year-old teacher, is unhappy at how Brexit has been handled. Theresa May should have had a proper plan before calling Article 50, she said. They should have had talks cross-party, then they would have realised that its not so simple and perhaps we need to rethink. About 600ft away traffic trundles across Putney Bridge, where double bass player Ben Griffiths, 39, has stepped out of rehearsals at St Marys Church for a break. They are going to be kicked, he said of the Tories. There is no leadership. After the referendum, half the country were annoyed with Theresa May, now all the country is annoyed. Ben Griffiths, 39, warned the Tories would suffer in Putney He planned to vote for a Remain-backing party, and felt frustrated that Change UK had missed a trick by not forming a joint anti-Brexit ticket with the Liberal Democrats and the Greens. At the end of a parade of independent shops in Lacy Road, is Jerusalem Costumes, which has been in business for 25 years. Long-time Conservative voter Juliet Harris, 55, who runs the shop with her partner, said she probably will not bother supporting her party on May 23. Brexit is a farce. I think its embarrassing for us abroad. I did vote to Leave and I suppose thats the reason Im not voting because I feel that it doesnt matter. We voted out and weve got all this faffing about, she said. Where does this leave former Cabinet minister Ms Greening, whose majority has been slashed from 10,000 in the 2010 and 2015 elections, to just over 1,500 at the 2017 election? Brexit cuts across party politics, and communities like my own want the path forward on Brexit resolved, not least for jobs and business investment to be protected, said the MP, who backs a second referendum. Local people do not want an unsustainable stitch-up deal between Mrs May and Jeremy Corbyn, she said, but to have their say in a confirmatory referendum. Putney voted 75 per cent Remain, one of the most emphatic results in London Will her stand be rewarded by Putneys Remain majority at the next Westminster election? Or could a Brexit backlash carry her away? Labour is the main challenger in the area and ran the Conservatives close in the Wandsworth borough elections last year. Lauren ODonnell, from Belfast, who works at the Swedish-owned Nordic living shop Blabar in Lacy Road, said: I would get behind a party that would back a Peoples Vote. That might not be where Labour are at the moment but Im hoping they will eventually go behind it. Pepe Mallardo, the owner of Italian cafe Giuliano, a fixture in Putney for 20 years, turned over a huge oven dish of pasta and said: Brexit is a mess. A big mess. The referendum argument will not affect his vote: I am a Labour voter. My father was Labour. Alongside 3 million-plus Edwardian villas in streets such as Hazlewell Road, trendy apartments have shot up at the Wandsworth end of the neighbourhood, pulling in young professionals, many from outside the UK. Mother Tay Roe, 32, said: I would rather we left quicker than this. Brexit should have been dealt with by now. Some voters have yet to find any party they are prepared to trust. Amy Lee, 28, on maternity leave from her job in insurance, voted Leave but is horrified at how Brexit has turned out, and confused about who to vote for on May 23. How will we hear about the baby? Kensington Palace says the press and the public will be informed when Meghan goes into labor. Harry has resented the often-intrusive coverage of the royals by the British press and he has toned down expectations for what information will be released about the new baby. That means the public won't be told where Meghan plans to give birth. Some observers think she will opt for a home birth away from prying eyes at a hospital. Queen Elizabeth II, Harry's grandmother, had all her children at home but Harry's brother Prince William and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, opted to give birth in a central London hospital. Harry and Meghan have also indicated they won't be posing on the hospital steps with their newborn hours after the baby has arrived, breaking with the pattern set by William and Kate. They have indicated it will be several days before they show the baby to the world. T he world was today given its first glimpse of Harry and Meghans newborn son as the couple posed for pictures with their baby at Windsor Castle. A relaxed looking Duke and Duchess of Sussex proudly showed off the two day old boy at the first of what is certain to be many photo calls for the youngest addition to the royal family. The Duchess declared: "It's magic, it's pretty amazing. I have the two best guys in the world so I'm really happy." As her husband held their son, Meghan added: "He has the sweetest temperament, he's really calm." The Duke and Duchess have not yet announced their son's name (Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire) / PA As they both laughed, Harry said: "I don't know who he gets that from." Prince Harry and Meghan Markle standing side by side at St George's Hall at Windsor Castle / PA Meghan added: "He's just been the dream so it's been a special couple of days." Harry added: "Another great grandchild." First glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan's newborn son - In pictures 1 /28 First glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan's newborn son - In pictures The Duke and Duchess of Sussex gave the world its first glimpse of the royal baby PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are joined by her mother, Doria Ragland, as they show their new son, born Monday and named as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, to the Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle Chris Allerton/SussexRoyal/PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with their baby son, who was born last month Dominic Lipinski/PA Meghan said Harry and her son were the "best two guys in the world" Dominic Lipinski/PA Their son was born in the small hours of Monday morning PA The Queen is due to be the first royal to meet the baby PA The Duchess said the birth of the child was "magic" PA Dominic Lipinski/PA The Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed the name of their son on Wednesday as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor PA PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Dominic Lipinski/PA Sky News Sky News Later, asked to show more of their son's face to the cameras, Meghan laughed as Harry joked: "He's already got a little bit of facial hair as well, wonderful." Meghan added: "Thank you everybody for all the well wishes and kindness, it just means so much." The happy couple with their new born son / Dominic Lipinski/PA Harry said: "Everyone says that babies change so much over two weeks we're basically monitoring how the changing process happens over this next month really. But his looks are changing every single day, so who knows." Asked how he found parenting, Harry added: "It's great. Parenting is amazing. It's only been two and a half days, three days, but we're just so thrilled to have our own little bundle of joy." Harry said they were looking forward to spending some "precious times with him as he slowly, slowly starts to grow up." TODO: define component type apester Asked about going to see the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, Meghan said: "We just bumped into the duke as we were walking by which was so nice. So it'll be a nice moment to introduce the baby to more family and my mum's with us as well." The as yet unnamed baby, who is seventh in line to the throne and the Queens eighth great grandchild, was born at 5.26am on Monday morning weighing 7lb 3oz. It was also revealed that the Queen will meet her new great grandson today. Buckingham Palace confirmed the monarch will be introduced to her grandson at Windsor by the proud father and mother Harry and Meghan. Prince Philip is in Windsor too and could meet the baby boy as well. The Queen is the first member of the royal family to meet the baby boy who is seventh in line to the throne. Harry and Meghan had always insisted there would be a short gap between the birth and their sons first public engagement to allow themselves precious private time as a family. They are said to have been desperate to avoid the media circus that surrounded the births of the three children of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It is thought the baby was delivered at private Portland Hospital in Marylebone after original plans to have the birth at home at Frogmore Cottage, Windsor, had to be abandoned on medical advice because the 37 year old Meghan was past her due date. However, this has not yet been confirmed by the Palace. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex: Prince Harry & Meghan Markle 1 /106 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex: Prince Harry & Meghan Markle Freedom Gala AP Christmas 2021 Alexi Lubomirski Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attend The Endeavour Fund Awards at Mansion House Samir Hussein/WireImage Oprah Winfrey interviews Duke and Duchess of Sussex PA Media Misan Harriman Prince Harry and Meghan Markle kiss on the steps of St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle after their wedding in St George's Chapel PA Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, pose with their newborn son Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Sussex holding their son Archie during a meeting with Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Mrs Tutu at their legacy foundation in cape Town, on day three of their tour of Africa PA Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle announce their engagement in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace Jeremy Selwyn Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a Wheelchair Tennis match during the Invictus Games 2017 Reuters Prince Harry and Meghan Markle embrace following the polo at Coworth Park on 7 May 2017 Rex Features Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle announce their engagement in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace EPA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during a walkabout on the esplanade at Edinburgh Castle PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle meet Pony Major Mark Wilkinson and regimental mascot Cruachan IV during a walkabout on the esplanade at Edinburgh Castle Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a Wheelchair Tennis match during the Invictus Games 2017 at Nathan Philips Square on 25 September 2017 in Toronto, Canada Reuters Prince Harry with girlfriend Meghan Markle at the Invictus Games in Toronto PA Prince Harry with girlfriend Meghan Markle at the Invictus Games in Toronto Getty Images Prince Harry arrives with girlfriend actress Meghan Markle at the wheelchair tennis event during the Invictus Games in Toronto Reuters Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a Wheelchair Tennis match during the Invictus Games 2017 at Nathan Philips Square on 25 September 2017 in Toronto, Canada Getty Images Prince Harry with girlfriend Meghan Markle at the Invictus Games in Toronto Getty Images Meghan Markle at the Invictus Games in Toronto Karwai Tang/WireImage Prince Harry arrives with girlfriend actress Meghan Markle at the wheelchair tennis event during the Invictus Games in Toronto, Ontario Reuters Meghan Markle attends the Opening Ceremony of the 2017 Invictus Games at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Canada PA Meghan Markle on the cover of Vanity Fair Peter Lindbergh exclusively for Vanity Fair Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a Wheelchair Tennis match during the Invictus Games 2017 Getty Images Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle announce their engagement in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace Jeremy Selwyn Larking around: Harry and Meghan pull faces in footage not shown in the BBC engagement interview BBC Meghan Markle visits Nottingham for her first official public engagement with fiancee Prince Harry Jeremy Selwyn Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrive at the Nottingham Contemporary in Nottingham, to attend a Terrence Higgins Trust World AIDS Day charity fair on their first official engagement together PA Meghan Markle arrives at the Terrance Higgins Trust World AIDS Day charity fair at Nottingham Contemporary Getty Images The royal brothers and their partners on Christmas Day. AFP/Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle listen to a broadcast through headphones during a visit to youth-orientated radio station, Reprezent FM, in Brixton PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrive in Brixton EPA Prince Harry and his fiancee Meghan Markle visit Reprezent 107.3FM in Brixton Getty Images Prince Harry and his fiancee Meghan Markle visit Reprezent 107.3FM in Brixton Getty Images Loved up: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visit Cardiff Castle EPA Prince Harry and his fiancee Meghan Markle attend a street dance class during their visit to Star Hub in during their visit to Star Hub on January 18, 2018 in Cardiff, Wales. Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will visit the people of Edinburgh Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrive to attend the annual Endeavour Fund Awards PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrive to attend the annual Endeavour Fund Awards Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a reception for young people at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh AFP/Getty Images rince Harry and his fiancee Meghan Markle meet a Shetland Pony as they arrive at Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh, Frank Augstein/AP Meghan Markle during a walkabout on the esplanade at Edinburgh Castle PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle speak with patrons at the Social Bite in Edinburgh AP Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on a walkabout during a visit to Millennium Point in Birmingham PA Meghan Markle arrives for a visit in Birmingham on International Women's Day PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on a walkabout during a visit to Millennium Point in Birmingham Splash News Prince Harry and Meghan Markle meet members of the public on a walkabout during a visit to Millennium Point in Birmingham PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle meet members of the public on a walkabout during a visit to Millennium Point in Birmingham PA The Reverend Canon David Stanton, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leave after attending a Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey AFP/Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbet AFP/Getty Images Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend a reception with delegates from the Commonwealth Youth Forum at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London PA Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ride in an Ascot Landau along the Long Walk after their wedding PA Meghan Markle walks down the aisle in St George's Chapel PA Harry and Meghan leaving Windsor Castle for the glamorous evening reception PA Harry and Meghan leaving Windsor Castle for the glamorous evening reception PA Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex head back down the Mall to Buckingham Palace during Trooping The Colour on June 9, 2018 Getty Images Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex talk to members of OneWave, an awareness group for mental health and wellbeing at South Bondi Beach on October 19, 2018 in Sydney, Australia. Getty Images Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex and his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex are seen during the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games in Sydney, Australia, 27 October 2018 EPA Meghan, Duchess of Sussex visits the Hubb Community Kitchen to see how funds raised by the 'Together: Our Community' Cookbook are making a difference at Al Manaar, North Kensington on November 21, 2018 in London Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Britain's Prince Harry unveil a plaque to officially open Number 7, a 'Feeding Birkenhead' citizens supermarket and community cafe, at Pyramids Shopping Centre, as part of a visit to Birkenhead, northwest England, Monday Jan. 14, 2019 AP Meghan, Duchess of Sussex visits the National theatre in central London on January 30, 2019 AFP/Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrive for a visit to the Bristol Old Vic theatre, which is undergoing a multimillion-pound restoration PA Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (L) and Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, reacts as they visit Bristol Old Vic theatre in Bristol, south-west England on February 1, 2019 AFP/Getty Images Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (R) and Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (C) help volunteers in the kitchen as they pack food parcels to go in the charity outreach van during a visit to One25 charity in Bristol, south west England on February 1, 2019 AFP/Getty Images Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, and Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex arrive to attend the annual Endeavour Fund Awards at Drapers Hall in London on February 7, 2019 AFP/Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Sussex try some food during a cooking school demonstration at Villa des Ambassadors in Rabat on the third day of their tour of Morocco PA Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, Duke & Duchess of Sussex, pet a horse at the Moroccan Royal Federation of Equestrian Sports in Rabat on February 25, 2019 AFP/Getty Images Meghan Markle wearing a short Reiss dress on International Women's Day AFP/Getty Images Meghan, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex attend a Commonwealth Day Youth Event at Canada House, where they meet young people who demonstrate a Canadian spring tradition of making maple taffy (maple syrup cooled on snow to make sweets) on March 11, 2019 in London Getty Images The Duke and Duchess of Sussex leave following a Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey, London PA Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess Of Sussex attend a Commonwealth Day Youth Event at Canada House on March 11, 2019 in London WireImage Members of Britain's Royal family leave after attending the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey AP The Duchess of Cambridge (left) talks with the Duchess of Sussex (right) as they attend the Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey, Richard Pohle/The Times/PA Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex hold their baby son in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, Berkshire on 8 May 2019 REUTERS Archbishop Desmond Tutu kisses the forehead of baby Archie as his mother smiles on warmly Reuters The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrive for a visit to the Auwal Mosque, the oldest mosque in South Africa, on day two of their tour of Africa. PA Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex attend a roundtable discussion on gender equality with The Queens Commonwealth Trust (QCT) and One Young World at Windsor Castle Jeremy Selwyn Prince Harry and Duchess of Sussex at The Fields of Remembrance in Westminster Abbey Jeremy Selwyn pixel8000 Reports suggest that Harry, Meghan and her mother Dorian Ragland were driven in a two car convoy the 27 miles from Windsor to the hospital late on Sunday evening. Todays images will be beamed across the world and will be seen by tens of millions of royalty obsessed Americans on morning prime time breakfast shows. Toronto, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Ontario Brain Institute (OBI) has announced the first recipients of funding under the newly launched Growing Expertise in Evaluation and Knowledge Translation (GEEK) program. OBI-GEEK supports programs run by community organizations which aim to improve the lives of people living with brain disorders. OBI has committed $300,000 in funding over the next two years to support three programs across Ontario, each providing a unique service to people living with brain disorders in their community. The programs include: supporting people living with disabilities through community inclusion, connecting individuals with acquired brain injuries to care services, and providing career specific post-secondary education programs for people with developmental disabilities. The 2019 GEEKS are Active Lives Active Living (Active Lives After School Dufferin Orangeville), Educational Pathway to Employment (Christian Horizons - Toronto), Brief Intensive Case Management Acquired Brain Injury (Ontario Brain Injury Association - Nipissing District). We know the important role community organizations play in providing support and care for people living with brain disorders outside of the clinical setting, said Dr. Tom Mikkelsen, President and Scientific Director, Ontario Brain Institute. By funding these community-led programs, OBI is helping more people access the services and supports that play a critical role across their life. The OBI-GEEK program will allocate up to $1 million over the next five years, funding a cohort of community-led programs. The funded programs will help address the needs of the brain health community and represent a range of brain disorders. We are so grateful to the Ontario Brain Institute for supporting our program. Brain injury happens in an instant, and the lives of those who sustain a brain injury, as well as their families, are changed forever - often leaving no time to prepare for the unique and extraordinary challenges that are immediate and last a lifetime., said Ruth Wilcock, Executive Director, Ontario Brain Injury Association. With the support of OBI, we will be able to directly help individuals and families during some of the most difficult periods of their life. Please click here to learn more about the OBI-GEEK program. Additional Quotes: Kimberly Van Ryn, Program Manager, Active Lives After School: Active Lives After School Dufferin is pleased to be a part of this amazing funding initiative with the Ontario Brain Institute. This funding for the Active Lives Active Giving volunteer program will impact the lives of those living with developmental disabilities to become involved participants in their home community and support their ongoing development in an inclusive and holistic way. OBI funding will support our mission to make our community inclusive, safe and enriching for all members and sets an example for all Ontarians to be their best selves. Irene Moore, Executive Director, Christian Horizons: The fabric of any community is stronger when everyone belongs and contributes in meaningful ways where their gifts shine. Christian Horizons is thrilled to have the OBI-GEEK grant join our partnership with Humber College in providing people experiencing disabilities or mental illness the market edge in gaining career skills. This grant provides the opportunity to continue to build modified learning experiences for people where the traditional approach does not support their learning needs. 2019 Program Details Active Lives After School - Active Lives Active Giving, Orangeville, ON: Active Lives Active Giving connects individuals with developmental disabilities living in Orangeville to supported volunteering opportunities. Active Lives Active Givings goal is to engage individuals with neurological differences through volunteer opportunities to support ongoing positive mental health through authentic community inclusion. Ontario Brain Injury Association - Brief Intensive Case Management Acquired Brain Injury, Nipissing District, ON: The Brief Intensive Case Management Acquired Brain Injury program connects individuals living with acquired brain injury and co-occurring diagnoses of addictions and/or mental health to primary care and other services. The program is developing an integrated model of care to support these individuals with complex cases. Christian Horizons - Educational Pathway to Employment, Toronto, ON: The Educational Pathway to Employment program develops career specific post-secondary education programs for people with developmental disabilities as well as mental health challenges, giving them the opportunity to gain the education and skills needed to access employment. All recipients are available for interviews U ber drivers in London and across the UK are set to launch a nine-hour boycott of the app today in the run-up to its stock market flotation on Thursday. Drivers will log off between 7am and 4pm in a stand against poor pay and working conditions and will protest outside the companys headquarters. The United Private Hire Drivers Branch of the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain, who are organising the strike, expect hundreds to participate. Protests will be held in London outside the companys UK head office at Aldgate Tower, as well as their offices in Birmingham, Nottingham and Glasgow. Minicab drivers previously protested by blocking the traffic across London Bridge / United Private Hire Drivers/Charlie Macnamara They will be joined by drivers in the US ahead of Ubers listing on the New York Stock Exchange, which has an expected valuation of $100 billion. Drivers say the IPO will lead to large payouts for executives and investors, despite failures to resolve pay issues for workers. Uber drivers part of the IWGB union protest outside the Royal Courts of Justice, London, before a ruling on their employment rights. / PA Archive/PA Images Uber's founder Travis Kalanick stands to personally gain $9 billion, according to the union. James Farrar, Chair of the United Private Hire Drivers branch of the IWGB union said: "Uber's flotation is shaping up to be an unprecedented international orgy of greed as investors cash in on one of the most abusive business models ever to emerge from Silicon Valley. It is the drivers who have created this extraordinary wealth but they continue to be denied even the most basic workplace rights. We call on the public not to cross the digital picket line on 8 May but to stand in solidarity with impoverished drivers across the world who have made Uber so successful." Drivers are demanding fares be increased to 2 per mile, commission paid to Uber to be cut from 25 per cent to 15 per cent, an end to unfair dismissals and for Uber to respect the rulings the 2016 ruling of the Employment Tribunal confirming 'worker' status for drivers. In the US, members of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance will strike during the morning rush hour, and will be joined by members working for Lyft and other taxi-booking apps. An Uber spokeswoman has said the company will continue to improve the experience of drivers. "Drivers are at the heart of our service - we cant succeed without them - and thousands of people come into work at Uber every day focused on how to make their experience better, on and off the road," she said in a statement. A rchaeologists have uncovered 1,000-year-old cocaine in a cave in South America, as part of an ancient drug bundle. The team of international researchers were hunting for traces of former settlements in Bolivia when they came across a burial site containing some interesting artefacts. Among these were a bag made from three fox snouts, a crude tube used as a pipe for smoking and a number of psychotropic substances, including cocaine and possibly magic mushrooms. This is the largest number of psychoactive substances ever found in a single archaeological assemblage from South America, announced Jose Capriles of Penn State University in a statement. The team were exploring the Cueva del Chileno cave in Bolivia when they found the ancient burial site (Jose Capriles, Penn State) / Juan Albarracin-Jordan and Jose Capriles, Penn State We already knew that psychotropics were important in the spiritual and religious activities of the societies of the south-central Andes, but we did not know that these people were using so many different compounds and possibly combining them together, added the assistant professor of anthropology. Radiocarbon dating placed the items at around 1,000 years old, and samples from inside the bag revealed the presence of cocaine compounds, traces of DMT, and what appeared to be a substance found in psychedelic mushrooms. "Shamans were ritual specialists who had knowledge of plants and how to use them as mechanisms to engage with supernatural beings, including venerated ancestors who were thought to exist in other realms," said Mr Capriles. "It is possible that the shaman who owned this pouch consumed multiple different plants simultaneously to produce different effects or extend his or her hallucinations." Among the artifacts found was a "snuffing tablet" used for crushing pills into a powder to be snorted (Jose Capriles, Penn State) / Juan Albarracin-Jordan and Jose Capriles, Penn State The team were particularly surprised to discover that none of the substances found in the ritual bundle came from the area in which they were found, suggesting special efforts were made to obtain them. "None of the psychoactive compounds we found come from plants that grow in this area of the Andes, indicating either the presence of elaborate exchange networks or the movement of this individual across diverse environments to procure these special plants, explained Mr Capriles. This discovery reminds us that people in the past had extensive knowledge of these powerful plants and their potential uses, and they sought them out for their medicinal and psychoactive properties. A sia Bibi, the Christian woman who spent years on death row in Pakistan after being convicted of blasphemy, has left the country to take refuge in Canada. Her lawyer confirmed today that she had left Pakistan over 24 hours ago. "I have enquired within available channels and according to them she has left for Canada," Saif Ul Malook said. She was sentenced to death in Pakistan but was acquitted last year when her conviction was overturned by the Supreme Court. Asia Bibi is said to have left for Canada / EPA In 2010 she was convicted after being accused of insulting the Prophet Muhammad in a row with her neighbours. This dated back to an incident in 2009, when she went to fetch water for herself and fellow farm workers. Two Muslim women refused to drink from the same container as Ms Bibi, who is Roman Catholic, and an argument ensued. Asia Bibi spent eight years on death row / EPA The women later said Ms Bibi had insulted the Prophet Muhammad. Following this she was charged with blasphemy and spent eight years on death row. Pakistans Supreme Court judges acquitted the mother-of-five of the blasphemy charges. There were protests in Pakistan following the Supreme Court's decision to acquit Asia Bibi / AFP/Getty Images After this, there were protests on the streets of Pakistan. Some also called for Ms Bibi, who had been staying at an undisclosed location under tight security, to be killed. This led to fears for her safety and that of her family following her release. There has previously been calls for her to be offered asylum in the UK, with thousands signing petitions urging the Government to offer her sanctuary. In November, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country was in talks with Pakistan about helping Ms Bibi. T he three most prestigious crowns in American beauty pageantry have all gone to black women for the first time in history. Cheslie Kryst, 28, scooped the Miss USA title on May 2 and Kaliegh Garris, 18, won Miss Teen USA on April 28. They joined 25-year-old Nia Franklin, who was crowned Miss America 2019 back in September at a glittering ceremony in New Jersey. It is important to little brown and black girls to see three strong figures, three strong women, African-American women that are doing so much great work, Ms Franklin, a composer and social activist, told the New York Times on Saturday. Nia Franklin was crowned Miss America 2019 in Atlantic City, New Jersey on September 9, 2018 / AP People will argue that race doesnt matter. But race does matter in America, because of the history, because of slavery. The pageant wins have been hailed as a symbol of progress, in a country whose past is scarred by gender stereotypes and racism. Miss USA is a black woman w/ natural hair, a lawyer, & an incredibly well-spoken, opinionated, intelligent, fit, hard-working, & beautiful woman. Dont tell me pageants arent relevant, tweeted one supporter in recognition of Ms Kryst, a civil litigation attorney who represents prison inmates for free. This woman is the epitome of diversity & female empowerment. I am so proud, added the Twitter fan. Eighteen-year-old student Kaliegh Garris has also been praised for keeping her hair natural. She told CBSs This Morning programme: Growing up in pageantry, I would straighten my hair.I thought I had to do that physically, but as I grew up, I realised I can do that while being myself and still be powerful. Over time I just embraced who I was. Black women have long been underrepresented in all three national pageants. It was not until 1970 that Cheryl Browne, as Miss Iowa, became the first black contestant for Miss America following decades of white women only contests. It would take another 14 years for the first black woman to be crowned achieved by Vanessa Williams in 1984. Miss USA and Miss Teen USA then followed suit, with Carole Gist and Janel Bishop awarded the titles respectively in 1990 and 1991. However, this is the first time all three crowns have been worn by black women simultaneously. Practicing attorney Cheslie Kryst, 28, was also the oldest Miss USA ever to win the title / AP Ms Kryst has celebrated the achievements of Ms Garris and Ms Franklin, as well as her own, but has also described them as a reminder of how far we have to go. There are no more black female CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, she said in reference to the largest US corporations and the departure of black business woman Ursula Burns. A n 18-year-old student has been identified as one of the two suspects in a horror school shooting that left one dead and eight wounded in Colorado. Devon Erickson was named by Douglas County Sheriffs office in the wake of the gun attack in the suburb of Highlands Ranch. Officials believe Erickson and a younger student walked into the STEM School Highlands Ranch on Tuesday afternoon and opened fire on students in two classrooms. This prompted terrified students to run screaming and others to hide out of sight as gunfire echoed through school. Colorado school shooting - In pictures 1 /11 Colorado school shooting - In pictures Police officers and students are seen outside STEM School Highlands Ranch, a charter middle school in the Denver suburb of Highlands Ranch Courtey Harper via AP Aftermath: Fire and police officers gather at the recreation centre where students were reunited with their parents AP Police and others are seen outside a recreation center where students are reunited with their parents, in the Denver suburb of Highlands Ranch AP Officials guide students off a bus and into a recreation center where they were reunited with their parents AP Police outside the home of one of the alleged gunmen behind the STEM School Highlands Ranch shooting in Highlands Ranch, Colorado AFP/Getty Images School shooting: Armed police officers approach the scene at STEM School Highlands Ranch AP A parent leaves with a child from the recreation center where students were reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school AP School buses arrive at the recreation centre set up for students AP Students step off a bus and head into a recreation centre where they were reunited with their parents AP Students exit an ambulance at a recreation center for students to get reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school AP Parents hug as they wait for their children at the recreation center where students were reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school AP As shots rang out students ran through the halls shouting "School shooter!" Pupil Sophia Marks said: "At the moment no one really knew what was going on so I didn't know they were bullets. "I just kind of saw like flashes and we heard bangs." School buses arrive at the recreation centre set up for students / AP Chris Elledge, 15, said his teacher told the class to hide behind weight equipment in the room, where they stayed until police arrived. He said: They busted in the room, and they were asking if there was any suspects in the room, if we were OK, and they escorted us out to go out to the front of the building. Police line the street outside a recreation centre where students were reunited with their parents after the shooting / AP Deputies from a nearby sheriff's department substation rushed to the scene, entered the school and arrested the two suspects after a struggle. "As officers were arriving at the school, they could still hear gunshots," Douglas County Undersheriff Holly Nicholson-Kluth said. AFP/Getty Images In the aftermath a large police presence was visible at the scene and multiple ambulances also lined nearby streets. Three hospitals reported treating eight people in connection with the attack, including two who were listed in serious condition. School shooting: Armed police officers approach the scene at STEM School Highlands Ranch / AP It has been confirmed that the victim shot dead was 18, though his identity has not been detailed. The shooting comes nearly three weeks after neighbouring Littleton marked the 20th anniversary of the Columbine school massacre, a horrific shooting which killed 13 people. Police and students gathered outside after the attack / Courtey Harper via AP The two schools are separated by about seven miles and are based in adjacent communities south of Denver. In a statement, White House spokesman Judd Deere said: "Tragically, this community and those surrounding it know all too well these hateful and horrible acts of violence. T he only person to die in an attack at a Colorado high school was an 18-year-old who lunged at the two shooters, allowing others to flee. Kendrick Castillo is said to have leapt from his desk in a literature class and charge at Devon Erickson, 18, and a younger student who has not been named. The two teenagers are accused of opening fire on fellow students on Tuesday at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math School in Highlands Ranch, about 25 miles south of Denver. Mr Castillos act allowed others to escape the shooting. Eight students were injured in the attacks. Police line the street outside a recreation centre where students were reunited with their parents after the shooting / AP Witnesses said the teenager, who was due to graduate from the Colorado high school in three days, charged one of the shooters, who killed him. "Kendrick lunged at him," fellow student Nui Giasolli told NBC News, referring to Erickson, who was being held on Wednesday on murder and attempted-murder charges. "He shot Kendrick, giving all of us enough time to get underneath our desks, to get ourselves safe, and to run across the room to escape. Colorado school shooting - In pictures 1 /14 Colorado school shooting - In pictures Police officers and students are seen outside STEM School Highlands Ranch, a charter middle school in the Denver suburb of Highlands Ranch Courtey Harper via AP Aftermath: Fire and police officers gather at the recreation centre where students were reunited with their parents AP Police and others are seen outside a recreation center where students are reunited with their parents, in the Denver suburb of Highlands Ranch AP Officials guide students off a bus and into a recreation center where they were reunited with their parents AP Police outside the home of one of the alleged gunmen behind the STEM School Highlands Ranch shooting in Highlands Ranch, Colorado AFP/Getty Images School shooting: Armed police officers approach the scene at STEM School Highlands Ranch AP A parent leaves with a child from the recreation center where students were reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school AP School buses arrive at the recreation centre set up for students AP Students step off a bus and head into a recreation centre where they were reunited with their parents AP Students exit an ambulance at a recreation center for students to get reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school AP Parents hug as they wait for their children at the recreation center where students were reunited with their parents after a shooting at a suburban Denver middle school AP Mr Castillo was described by students as friendly, someone who loved robotics, helping out the elderly in his community and making people laugh. Cece Bedard said she broke down in tears when she heard her friend had died but was not surprised at his selfless act. "There is no doubt in my mind that he would have done anything he thought he could have to help anyone," she said. Students exit an ambulance at a recreation center for students to get reunited with their parents. / AP Mr Castillos actions bear similarities with another recent school shooting in the US, in which a student was killed after he challenged a gunman in his classroom. Rile Howell, 21, was killed during a school shooting at North Carolina at Charlotte last week. School officials sent out an emergency alert with a matra disseminated by US law enforcement: Run, hide, fight. One dead, eight hurt as two students open fire at Colorado school Two students have opened fire at a school in Denver, killing a teenager and injuring eight other people in the attack. The gunmen opened fire in classrooms at the school, which is seven miles away from Columbine High School. Children as young as kindergarten age were evacuated amid the horrifying scenes at STEM School in the US state of Colorado. Two suspects, whose identities have not been released, were arrested after a struggle with armed police following the shooting. PM awaits verdict of rebel bid to oust her after double Brexit blow Theresa May will today hear if a Tory rebel bid to oust her is to be launched her after she was dealt a double Brexit blow. It was announced yesterday that she had failed to avoid keeping the UK from voting in the upcoming European elections on May 23. And cross-party Brexit talks again failed to end in agreement in the second of the two blows in one day for the Prime Minister. A third upset could be on the way as the outcome of talks among Tory MPs over a timetable for the PM to stand down is revealed. Baby Sussex prepares to face the world Royal fans will today catch their first glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs newborn son as he attends his first photocall. Harry and Meghan have been settling in to being new parents at their Frogmore Cottage home near the Queen's Windsor Castle. And now they plan to show the baby to the world, although it is not yet known if the couple have decided on a name. Grenfell families call for procedural changes to inquiry Bereaved families have called for major procedural changes to be made to the public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire. They hit out at the "amnesia fix" of corporations during the inquiry and at the delay in bringing in urgent fire safety recommendations. And in sport Liverpool last night overturned a 3-0 first-leg deficit to topple Barcelona and reach a second successive Champions League final. The Spanish champions were thumped 4-0 at Anfield in feat described as one of the finest in the Liverpools history. Two goals each from Divock Origi and half-time substitute Georginio Wijnaldum secured their place in the final stage. A my Schumer has revealed the name of her new baby boy in a sweet Instagram post. The comedian and actress shared a photo of her son, who was born on Sunday evening, being held by his father Chris Fischer, and confirmed that the baby will be called Gene. Gene Attell Fischer and his dad Chris, she wrote alongside the heart-warming snap. Schumers post was met with an outpouring of congratulatory messages from her famous friends, with screen legend Glenn Close writing: Congratulations, Amy! YOU DID IT! He is gorgeous. Sending love. Model Cindy Crawford said that the couples arrival was better than the Met Ball, while Lena Dunham wrote: Beauty boy and perfect best name. Will & Grace star Debra Messing added: Oh my God hes so beautiful. Look at his eyes congratulations Mama! Im so happy for you all! People reports that the babys middle name may be a tribute to Schumers fellow comedian Dave Attell, who invited her to join him on stage at his New York show back in January. Schumer gave birth to her first child on Sunday night, hours before the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs son was delivered. Jokingly referring to her new arrival as our royal baby in an Instagram post announcing the birth, the comic shared a photo of herself cradling the newborn on Monday, writing: 10.55 pm last night. Our royal baby was born. She also revealed that she stopped off at New Yorks Metropolitan Museum of Art, where the Met Gala is held each year, on her way to give birth. Met look this year. Last night on the way to the hospital, she wrote alongside a photo of herself on the museums famous steps. G eorge Clooney has urged people to be kinder to Meghan Markle after she gave birth to her first child with Prince Harry. The royal couple, who wed in Windsor last May, welcomed a baby boy on Monday, before making his debut to the world earlier today as Harry showed off their bundle of joy to photographers at Windsor Castle. Clooney said interest in, and interviews with Meghans parents have taken scrutiny to a really dark place as he called for it to cease now she has become a mum. Speaking to Associated Press at the Los Angeles premiere of his upcoming show Catch 22 he said: Its about going to interview peoples parents that starts to step into a really dark place. I think people should be a little kinder. Shes a young woman who has just had a baby. Royal baby: Harry and Meghan's son makes first appearance Clooney previously compared the treatment of Meghan to that of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, telling WHO: Shes a woman who is seven months pregnant and she has been pursued and vilified and chased in the same way that Diana was and its history repeating itself. The Hollywood star attended the royal wedding with his wife Amal Clooney. The pair share one-year-old twins Alex and Ella. Friends: Amal and George Clooney at the Royal Wedding / Chris Radburn/PA George joked Baby Sussex, who is seventh in line to the throne, has given him the elbow, with his arrival falling on the same day as the actors birthday. That kid stole my thunder! [Thats] my birthday, he told Jimmy Kimmel of May 6. G ame of Thrones fans were left puzzled after the geography of one of the shows most important locations seemed to change completely in the fourth episode of series eight. The most recent instalment of the fantasy epic saw Daenerys Targaryens army approach the castle gates at Kings Landing, as they prepared to take on Cersei Lannisters forces. In previous episodes, Kings Landing is almost completely surrounded by water, and is connected to the mainland by a verdant mountain range. The latest scenes at the Lannister stronghold, however, took place against a very different backdrop, with Daenerys forces lining up in an arid, desert-like wasteland with no greenery or water in sight. Inconsistency: Fans claimed that King's Landing had changed completely / HBO Reddit users were quick to point out the second inconsistency in Mondays episode, after a rogue coffee cup was spotted in front of a Daenerys (Emilia Clarke) during a banqueting scene. Everyones talking about the coffee cup but can we talk about why the f*** Kings Landing is now in a desert without mountains? Reddit user DomingerUndead wrote yesterday on the r/freefolk thread, sharing a shot of Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) approaching the castle walls. Fans were quick to agree with the observation, with viewers likening the new Kings Landing to a random backlot and a construction site. Change: King's Landing was surrounded by green mountains in past seasons / HBO / Game of Thrones Total aesthetic change for everything else weve seen of Kings Landing, one scathing viewer said, adding: I would understand some deforestation, but its like theyve just decided that its convenient for every single castle / city to be in the middle of a perfectly flat open plain, so now thats how it is. That threw me off too I didnt understand where they were for a bit, another wrote. To add on the confusion how did we go from seeing snowfall in Kings Landing to desert-ish terrain? Game of Thrones: Locations - In pictures 1 /18 Game of Thrones: Locations - In pictures Krka National Park, Croatia Shutterstock / ZM_Photo The Hall of Ambassadors (Salon de los Embajadores), Seville, Spain Shutterstock / Jose Ignacio Soto St Jacob Cathedral, Croatia Shutterstock / Dreamer4787 Trsteno Arboretum, Croatia Shutterstock / nadtochiy Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland Shutterstock / Atmosphere1 Thingvellir National Park, Iceland Getty Images San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Shutterstock Reynisfjara Shutterstock Italica Amphitheatre of Santiponce Shutterstock Tollymore Forest Park Shutterstock Dubrovnik Harbour fjaka/Pixabay Church of Saint Blaise Shutterstock Svinafellsjokull Glacier Shutterstock Filming taking place at Magheramorne Quarry Getty Images Kind of p***** e off how Kings Landing, the most important location, gets three different variations of how it looks like in the span of 4 seasons, a third angry Redditor commented. One dedicated fan suggested that the dramatic change could be accounted for by the shift in seasons, explaining: The sea recedes during winter, like a super long lasting low tide. This is one of the areas where the bay has receded leaving barren area leading up to a city wall. Game of Thrones Season 8 Episode 5 - Preview Another post went further, claiming that Cersei (Lena Headey) could have moved her strongholds location to consolidate her position during the Battle of Winterfell. Its obvious that while Jon and Dany were fighting the dead Cersei took the opportunity to move Kings Landing to Dorne, they said. This is an excellent strategic move on her part and Im so annoyed people dont get it. Dublin, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Autonomous Agents Market by Deployment Type (Cloud and On-premises), Organization Size (SMEs and Large Enterprises), Vertical (BFSI, IT and Telecom, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Transportation and Mobility), and Region - Global Forecast to 2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global autonomous agents market is expected to grow from USD 345 million in 2019 to USD 2,992 million by 2024, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 54% during the forecast period. The autonomous agents market is driven by various factors, such as growing deployment of AI-based applications across enterprises. However, issues related to unsupervised learning and heavy investment in converting unstructured data into structured data can hinder the growth of the market. Major vendors offering autonomous agents solutions and services across the globe include Oracle (US), IBM (US), SAP (Germany), AWS (US), SAS (US), Infosys (India), Nuance Communications (US), FICO (US), Fetch.AI (UK), Affectiva (US), Intel (US), Salesforce (US), Aptiv (Ireland), Google (US) and Microsoft (US). The study includes an in-depth competitive analysis of these key players in the autonomous agents market, with their company profiles, recent developments, and key market strategies. Cloud segment to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period Cloud solutions provide various advantages, such as reduced operational cost, low maintenance cost, higher scalability, accessibility of real-time information, and enhanced business efficiency over the on-premises solutions. Furthermore, it lowers the IT budgets, reduces the financial risks, and increases flexibility. Therefore, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) majorly prefer the cloud-based deployment type. Moreover, rapid advancements in cloud technology, with security as their priority and the rising cost of support and maintenance of on-premises solutions will drive the growth of cloud-based autonomous agents. IT and telecom vertical to hold the highest market share during the forecast period The IT and telecom vertical is characterized by the increased complexity of communication networks to support advanced technologies, such as software defined - wide area network, and network function virtualization. The vertical has increased demand for intelligent and optimized network operations to cater to the demand for communication service providers. The vertical is integrating autonomous agents, AI and machine learning to automate their network operations and enhance the consumer experience. Autonomous agents are able to optimize network operations and enable autonomous network operations. However, though the majority of AI in these applications are restricted to statistical analysis and big data tools, autonomous agents are expected to have high demand over the forecast period. APAC to record the highest growth rate during the forecast period The companies operating in the APAC region would benefit from the flexible economic conditions, industrialization and globalization policies of the governments, and the expanding digitalization, which is expected to have a huge impact on the business community in the region. The other emerging economies, such as India, Singapore, and Malaysia are looking forward to integrating new technologies into their businesses. These developments show that the APAC region is well-versed in adopting autonomous agents across various verticals, with a major focus on BFSI, and IT and telecom verticals. The companies in this region are practicing the strategy of increasing its customer base through acquisitions and partnerships with the significant players in the autonomous agents market. Key Topics Covered 1 Introduction 2 Research Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Premium Insights 4.1 Attractive Growth Opportunities in the Autonomous Agents Market 4.2 Autonomous Agents Market, By Organization Size, 2019 4.3 Autonomous Agents Market, By Vertical, 2019 4.4 Autonomous Agents Market: Market Investment Scenario, 2019-2024 5 Market Overview and Industry Trends 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Market Dynamics 5.2.1 Drivers 5.2.1.1 Increasing Number of AI Applications 5.2.1.2 Increased Availability of Parallel Computational Resources 5.2.1.3 Growth of Large and Complex Data Sets Driving the Need for Autonomous Agents 5.2.2 Restraints 5.2.2.1 Issues Related to Unsupervised Learning 5.2.2.2 Need for Heavy Investment in Converting Unstructured Data Into Structured Data 5.2.2.3 Lack of Skilled Workforce and Absence of Standards and Protocols 5.2.3 Opportunities 5.2.3.1 Integration of AI With Cloud 5.2.3.2 Advancements in AI and Ml 5.2.4 Challenges 5.2.4.1 Limited Use Cases of Autonomous Agents 5.2.4.2 Increased Network Complexity 5.2.4.3 Data Privacy and Security Concerns 5.3 Types of Autonomous Agents 5.3.1 Traditional Industrial Robots 5.3.2 Mobile Robots 5.3.3 Softbots 5.3.4 Computer Simulations 5.4 Evolution 5.5 Industry Standards 5.5.1 Distributed Management Task Force Standards 5.5.2 Cloud Infrastructure Management Interface 5.5.3 Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act 5.5.4 Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards 5.5.5 International Organization for Standardization 5.5.6 Storage Networking Industry Association - Cloud Data Management Interface 6 Autonomous Agents Market, By Deployment Type 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Cloud 6.2.1 Ability to Access Real-Time Data From Anywhere, Flexibility, and Cost-Effectiveness are the Major Factors to Drive the Adoption Rate of Cloud-Based Autonomous Agents 6.3 On-Premises 6.3.1 Growing Demand for Data Security Among Enterprises to Drive the Adoption of On-Premises Autonomous Agents 7 Autonomous Agents Market, By Organization Size 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises 7.2.1 Elimination of Human Intervention to Operate Tedious Tasks to Drive the Demand for Autonomous Agents in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises 7.3 Large Enterprises 7.3.1 Growing Demand to Automate Business Processes and Enhance the Customer Experience to Boost the Adoption of Autonomous Agents in Large Enterprises 8 Autonomous Agents Market, By Vertical 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance 8.2.1 Demand for Algorithmic Trading Systems in BFSI Vertical to Drive the Market Growth 8.3 IT and Telecom 8.3.1 IT and Telecom Vertical to Integrate Autonomous Agents, Ai, and Ml to Automate Network Operations and Enhance Consumer Experience 8.4 Manufacturing 8.4.1 Use of Autonomous Agents to Increase in Various Manufacturing Applications 8.5 Healthcare 8.5.1 Healthcare Vertical to Adopt Autonomous Agents to Improve Decision-Making 8.6 Transportation and Mobility 8.6.1 Transportation and Mobility Vertical to Use Autonomous Agents, AI Platforms, and the Ml Technology to Solve Traffic Congestion-Related Problems 8.7 Others 9 Autonomous Agents Market, By Region 9.1 Introduction 9.2 North America 9.2.1 Ability to Invest in High-Growth Technologies to Drive the Adoption of Autonomous Agents in North America 9.3 Europe 9.3.1 Establishment of Relevant Framework for Policy Development and Adoption of Emerging Technologies Across Verticals to Boost the Adoption of Autonomous Agents in Europe 9.4 Asia Pacific 9.4.1 Rising Adoption of Advanced Technologies to Increase the Growth Opportunities for Autonomous Agents in Asia Pacific 9.5 Rest of the World 10 Competitive Landscape 10.1 Introduction 10.1.1 New Product/Solution Launches and Product Enhancements 10.1.2 Business Expansions 10.1.3 Acquisitions 10.1.4 Partnerships and Collaborations 11 Company Profiles 11.1 Introduction 11.2 Oracle 11.3 IBM 11.4 SAP 11.5 AWS 11.6 SAS 11.7 Infosys 11.8 Nuance Communications 11.9 FICO 11.10 Fetch.ai 11.11 Affectiva 11.12 Intel 11.13 Salesforce 11.14 Aptiv 11.15 Google 11.16 Microsoft For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/1mktl8 F or the first time, it looks like Chinese smartphone company OnePlus is going to be releasing three new smartphones in its next upgrade cycle. The company has made a name for itself by creating a flagship killer smartphone, once every six months. Its always a device with a mid-range price but high-end specs, whether thats an in-screen fingerprint scanner, slick design or impressive camera set-up. For the OnePlus 7 launch, due next week, the company is breaking with tradition and looks to be releasing three phones, a standard OnePlus 7, a OnePlus 7 Pro and a 5G version, OnePlus 7 Pro 5G. Heres what we know about the new OnePlus phones. OnePlus 7 spec According to OnLeaks, the OnePlus 7 looks pretty similar to last years OnePlus 6T. Theres a teardrop notch at the top of the screen to house the selfie camera, and either a 6.2-inch or a 6.4-inch flat display, making it slightly smaller than last years phone. On the back, there are two cameras, with a 48-megapixel primary sensor, in the classic OnePlus vertical style. There should be an in-screen fingerprint scanner too. A leaked render of the new OnePlus 7 smartphone / @OnLeaks x Pricebaba The phone will also sport Qualcomms Snapdragon 855 processor and come with at least 6GB of RAM, though some rumours point to 10GB of RAM, just like last year's OnePlus 6T McLaren edition. This could be what CEO Pete Lau is hinting about when he says there will be an emphasis on "smooth" with the next phone launch. In terms of colours, there are expected to be three colour variants: Mirror Grey, Almond and Nebula Blue. OnePlus 7 Pro spec This is where things are really changing. The 7 Pro is rumoured to have a 6.64-inch curved display with no notch on the front of the screen. Instead, there is a pop-up selfie camera, an interesting way to solve the notch problem. Its also going to have a Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display a big step up from the classic OLED screens seen on OnePlus phones. AMOLED screens have better quality and are often more flexible than OLED screens so this will be exciting to see in the new OnePlus 7 Pro. Already, it has been confirmed that the OnePlus 7 Pro will have a HDR10+ display - a top-of-the end screen, which means watching films and playing games on the go are going to look really good on this device. Here are the two phones side by side: On the back, there are three cameras: a 48-megapixel primary sensor, as well as a telephoto lens and an ultra-wide angle lens. The phone will have the same Snapdragon 855 Processor as the normal version. OnePlus 7 Pro 5G spec Its no secret that OnePlus has been working on bringing 5G tech to its devices. Last year, the company sent the first 5G-enabled tweet, and at Mobile World Congress in February it had its 5G prototype on display. It's likely that a 5G OnePlus phone will be very similar in specs to the OnePlus 7 Pro - that amazing screen, three cameras on the back, and Snapdragon's 855 processor. But the 5G capability means you will be able to access the next generation of mobile networks when it finally rolls out across the UK. Thanks to this, the OnePlus 7 Pro 5G will probably be pretty pricey. It is a departure from the way OnePlus handles a phone launch, which has often been a lot more straightforward compared to the approaches other smartphone makers take. But its testament to the fact the company has grown so much: according to Counterpoint Research, OnePlus is now in the top five global brands in the premium category. Now that OnePlus is coming for the big guns, it looks like its going to want to pull all the stops out for the OnePlus 7 launch. OnePlus 7 release date in the UK The new phones are set to be unveiled at a big event on May 14 at London's Printworks, with simultaneous events taking place in New York and Bangalore, India. Given that last years OnePlus 6 launch date was May 16 and then went on sale on May 22, its likely the new phones will be available to buy a week later. OnePlus 7 prices The standard OnePlus 7 is likely to be priced around the same as last year's OnePlus 6T, which started at 499. Rumours point to the OnePlus 7 Pro and 7 Pro 5G costing a lot more. Known Android leaker Ishan Argarwal is predicting that the 8GB/256GB variant will cost between 749-759, whilst a 12GB/256GB variant will cost between 819-829. Washington, D.C., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Smithsonians National Museum of American History is marking the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad with Forgotten Workers: Chinese Migrants and the Building of the Transcontinental Railroad and The Transcontinental Railroad open May 10 through spring 2020. The new displays offer insight into the backbreaking labor that ultimately connected the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroad companies at Promontory Summit, Utah, May 10, 1869. To commemorate the anniversary, Rep. Grace Meng (D-N.Y.) will read a Congressional resolution recognizing Chinese railroad workers at the museum May 10 at 9:30 a.m., joined by Representatives Judy Chu (D-Calif.), T.J. Cox (D-Calif.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.); Smithsonian Secretary David J. Skorton; Lisa Sasaki, the director of the Smithsonians Asian Pacific American Program; and descendants of Chinese workers. The event will take place in front of the museums Jupiter locomotive in the General Motors Hall of Transportation, and a media tour of the displays will follow. The artifacts on view will help visitors understand how these forgotten workers often had to endure unfair and hazardous conditions in addition to the backbreaking labor, said Peter Liebhold, a curator in the museums Division of Work and Industry and co-curator of the displays. Forgotten Workers will focus on the Chinese laborers whose hard work and sacrifice made possible the completion of one of the nations largest infrastructure projects and an amazing engineering feat of human endurance. Objects on view will provide a detailed look into the daily lives of Chinese laborers, such as a pair of chopsticks, a mining pick and a laborers conical hat. A large graphic floor map of the United States will show the difficult and expansive terrain that challenged workers and the scale of the project that successfully connected the east and west coasts of the country by land. Visitors will be able to walk the route of the railroad, find the states and territories that it passed through, understand that native peoples were displaced and the impact on the American landscape and environment. Museum visitors can get their hands-on history with two new interpretive carts that will provide facilitated experiences. The Stereoscope Cart: Building the Transcontinental Railroad will allow visitors to view historic 3-D images that show the ways people, animals and machines came together in the challenging western landscape to complete the railroad. With the Ive Been Working on the Railroad cart, visitors can learn about jobs associated with building and operating the railroad. Among the objects are a tool similar to one employed by Chinese workers to tunnel through a thousand feet or more of solid granite. Visitors can try hefting a 20-pound shovel of coal and imagine the backbreaking labor to do that 400 times in one hour. Programs enhancing the story of the Transcontinental Railroad and the workers legacy will be presented May 10 and include an Objects-Out-of-Storage presentation, a Cooking Up History program about the regional Chinese cooking along the railroad and a performance from San Francisco-based troupe Eth-Noh-Tech that uses theater to tell traditional Chinese stories. Forgotten Workers and its companion case The Transcontinental Railroad with models of the two locomotives that met at Promontory Summit and a replica spike donated by the Union Pacific Railroad to the Smithsonian in 1958, are part of this larger Smithsonian-wide initiative to commemorate the Transcontinental Railroads 150th anniversary. Information on digital content, events and displays can be found at https://americanhistory.si.edu/transcontinental150. Social media users can join the conversation at #Transcontinental150. The museum will also host an online Transcontinental Railroad object group with more than 100 digitized artifacts: https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object-groups/tcrr. Through incomparable collections, rigorous research and dynamic public outreach, the National Museum of American History explores the infinite richness and complexity of American history. It helps people understand the past in order to make sense of the present and shape a more humane future. The museum is located on Constitution Avenue N.W., between 12th and 14th streets, and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (closed Dec. 25). Admission is free. For more information, visit http://americanhistory.si.edu. For Smithsonian information, the public may call (202) 633-1000. # # # Attachments Amy Hagstrom-Miller, president and CEO of Whole Womans Health Alliance, said: Today, Virginia brings a bright light to the rest of the country. We look forward to trial. Victoria Cobb, president of the socially conservative Family Foundation, criticized the ruling. While a majority of Americans want to see fewer abortions, the abortion industry continues to seek new ways to increase the number of unborn children killed before they are born, she said an email. Olivia Gans Turner, president of the Virginia Society for Human Life, said the decision is directly contrary to controlling U.S. Supreme Court precedent. The Supreme Court in Mazurek v. Armstrong noted that Roe v. Wade itself said the State may determine the term physician to mean only a physician currently licensed by the State, and may proscribe any abortion by a person who is not a physician as so defined. In their unceasing quest to promote no-limits destruction of unborn children regardless of stage of development or ability to feel pain, abortion advocates are more extreme even than the Roe v. Wade decision they claim to defend, Turner said. On Thursday, May 9, Gov.Pete Ricketts will be holding a town hall in Scottsbluff. The governor invites the public to attend the town hall. Nebraskans are invited to join Governor Ricketts at his upcoming town hall in Scottsbluff, said Taylor Gage, the governors director of strategic communications. This is a great opportunity to hear an update on how our state is growing, and also to make your voice heard. The governor looks forward to hearing your thoughts on how we can move our state forward together. A cockroach is a decomposer, so they eat anything that falls to the forest floor. They can also survive for 10 days without a head. David Baker-Baszler made his way to the gym floor and closed his eyes while holding out his hands. As Lenz removed the next animal from the crate, the students erupted in laughter. Upon opening his eyes, he was shocked to see an alligator in his arms. The alligator is named Tripod, since it is missing a front leg. Since alligators use their back legs and tails to swim, Tripod can still swim like every other alligator. Alligators lose 3,000 teeth in a lifetime. Jaylee Sarchet was the next volunteer who came to the floor. Instead of holding out her hands to hold the next animal, Lenz had Sarchet open her eyes to pet Oreo the skunk. Skunks spray when they feel threatened by their surroundings. Had the students been loud when Lenz brought Oreo out of his crate, he might have lifted his tail to spray. As Lenz raised Oreos tail, the students let out a gasp in terror of being sprayed. Some of the students in the front row were splashed with water, as she raised his tail. He is what we called de-scented, which means he is not able to spray. Although Schaub previously made comments he did not want any more taxes, he said residents would have to deal with less amenities if that did not happen. He suggested an occupational tax, for example a phone tax, to find the money to fund the zoo. We could say that (money) goes to the zoo and anything above it would go to capital infrastructure, Schaub said. Currently, there is no such tax on cell phones, but the idea has been presented before. Schaub suggested the council approve a one-year contract for $300,000 and put the idea of an occupational tax on the ballot to let the public decide. If the public does not approve an occupational tax, then in 2021, the public has spoken they dont want any more taxes, Schaub said. Its not that Im opposed to the zoo, Im just concerned about spending the taxpayer dollars and do the taxpayers really want it. Councilman Scott Shaver said he did not think any city council members were opposed to the zoo, but he didnt know where the city was going to come up with the money. I would not support an occupational tax without the support of the public, Shaver said. Parrish arrived the following year as the colleges new president and saw the event as an opportunity to get the word out and generate some support for the schools mission of training Christian leaders to work in missions and churches. The Summit to Summit run/walk quickly became one of my favorite events, Parrish said. Its always been a celebration of our relationship with the general community. Its also been great to see so many businesses come alongside and support it. From an initial field of 17 runners, the Summit to Summit has turned into a community fun day. Local municipalities bring out their fire trucks and other emergency vehicles to go on display. Air Link has also landed their medical emergency transport helicopter at several events. A bounce house and other fun events for the kids are part of the day as well. As of Friday, around 100 people have registered to participate. As the day approaches, the number is expected to increase to about 200. Parrish said with news coverage over the years, theyre getting more runners from outside the area. Some are coming from ONeill, Omaha and Wichita, Kansas. SCOTTSBLUFF Regional West Pharmacist Jeff Kildow, RP, PharmD, was recently awarded Preceptor of the Year from the University of Nebraska College of Pharmacy. Each year the colleges pharmacy students select a volunteer faculty member whom they feel has contributed significantly to their practical/experiential education and training, and who exemplifies the professional values and standards of a model pharmacy practitioner. Kildow received the award May 3 at the Colleges Scholastic Honors Convocation in Omaha. In addition to serving as a preceptor for the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Kildow also mentors pharmacy students for the University of Wyoming and Creighton University. He is responsible for coordinating the students four-to-five week rotation experience while at Regional West Medical Center, guiding students when they are between their first and second years of pharmacy school and again during their fourth year before they graduate. Lithuanian English Financial results of the first quarter lay solid foundation for strategic projects The financial results of the first quarter of this year - Litgrid Group revenue compared to the same period last year grew by 5.5 percent to EUR 50.6 million, and the net profit amounted to EUR 3.2 million. We are capable and ready to meet the needs of society, business and state. Sustainable objectives of our activities and CEF funding we received at the beginning of this year gave strong boost to achieve strategic goals, - general director Daivis Virbickas says. Revenue from system services grew by 9 % (to EUR 18.1 million EUR). Though the volume of system services decreased by 5 %, the tariff had been increased 16 % by the National Commission on Energy Control and Prices from 1 January 2019, which is the main driver of system service revenue growth. Revenue from electricity transmission increased by 2.3 % up to EUR 18.5 million compared to first quarter of 2018 and accounted for 36 % of the Groups total revenue. Income growth was conditioned by 4.8 % higher average actual electricity transmission price. The regulated electricity transmission price at the beginning of this year grew due to objective reasons - servitude compensation, auto-transformer transfer costs and increased purchase costs for own use etc. The EBITDA in the first quarter of 2019 amounted to EUR 9.5 million. Compared to 2018, the EBITDA decreased by EUR 2.4 million or 20 %. The EBITDA margin decreased to 18.8 % (in 2018 - 24.9 %). The net profit of the Group in the first quarter of 2019 was EUR 3.2 million (in 2018 - EUR 4.2 million). The main reason for the decrease of the Group's EBITDA is EUR 2.5 million worse balance of system services revenue and costs in the first quarter of 2009 the balance was EUR 0.1 million, while in 2018 - EUR 2.6 million The investments of transmission system operator Litgrid in the first quarter of 2019 amounted to EUR 4.8 million, of which 56 % were earmarked for the implementation of electricity projects of strategic and high national importance, and 44 % for the reconstruction and development of the electricity transmission grid. In January this year, the European Commission allocated funding for the first phase of synchronization of the Baltic energy system with Continental European Network - the renewal and enhancement of the Lithuanian electricity system will require 167 million, three quarters of which will be supports by EU. The Groups operating expenses totaled EUR 46.5 million in the first quarter of 2019, which are 9 % higher compared to 2018. Major share of the Groups operating expenses 71 % consists of costs of electricity and related services purchase. The individual authorized by LITGRID AB to provide additional information: Jurga Eivaite Head of Communication Division phone: +370 613 19977 e-mail: jurga.eivaite@litgrid.eu Attachment We are fortunate to have the support of visionary and generous private partners who recognize our momentum and want to be a part of it. And we have a strong partnership with the state that has ensured affordable, outstanding higher education for Nebraska students and families for more than 150 years. That partnership is as important now as it has ever been. None of us can meet the urgent needs of our state alone. Fortunately, elected leaders in Nebraska recognize the critical role higher education plays in building a strong future for the state. Chairman John Stinner, Vice Chairwoman Kate Bolz and members of the Appropriations Committee in particular have shown great foresight in developing a budget package that prioritizes education and economic growth. I am grateful for their leadership in building on the steps taken by Governor Ricketts and funding the University of Nebraskas budget request. The Committees budget would keep tuition affordable for our 52,000 students and help the university turn the corner after a difficult fiscal period. I hope the full Legislature will agree. As Ive told my own children more times than they can count, the decisions we make determine the life we lead. Nebraska has an opportunity to make decisions now that will impact the growth and prosperity of our state for generations to come. I hope well decide to send the right message to the young people walking across the stage to collect their diploma this week and years into the future. I found it impossible to watch All Our Children without crying. Increasingly, Im having the same reaction listening to Democratic politicians of all sorts seemingly falling over one another to outdo themselves in abortion extremism. We seem to have entered a new point in our discussion of the issue, in which euphemisms are giving way to a new boldness. But all the rhetorical evasions in the world cant mask the central question: Do we care to value and protect life or not? No small part of the All Our Children story is about Clemens August Graf von Galen, the Catholic bishop of Munster, who spoke out against the Nazi policy of killing unproductive citizens (and spent years under house arrest for doing so). In one of his sermons, he said: (W)e are dealing with human beings, with our neighbors, brothers and sisters, the poor and invalids ... unproductive -- perhaps! But have they, therefore, lost the right to live? Have you or I the right to exist only because we are productive? If the principle is established that unproductive human beings may be killed, then God help all those invalids who, in order to produce wealth, have given their all and sacrificed their strength of body. Countries & Areas Search for country or area A Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan B Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi C Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Costa Rica Cote dIvoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia D Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic E Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia F Fiji Finland France G Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Grenada Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana H Haiti Holy See Honduras Hungary I Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy J Jamaica Japan Jordan K Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan L Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg M Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique N Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria North Korea North Macedonia Norway O Oman P Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territories Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Q Qatar R Republic of the Congo Romania Russia Rwanda S Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Sweden Switzerland Syria T Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu U Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom Uruguay Uzbekistan V Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Y Yemen Z Zambia Zimbabwe Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) An administration senatorial candidate assures that the upper house will remain independent even if no Senate bet from the opposition wins. It will still be an independent Senate. Actually before, mayroon ngang [there was a] Senate na [with] only one opposition and it was still an independent Senate, said Senator Aquilino Koko Pimentel III, who is also the president of administration party Partido Demokratiko Pilipino Lakas ng Bayan. According to an electoral almanac from the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office, no Congress since 1995 had only one member in the Senate minority bloc. Opposition figures admit that their candidates chances of winning are slim. Opposition coalition Otso Diretso spokesperson Barry Gutierrez told The Source on Tuesday that they have long expected that only Senator Paolo Benigno Bam Aquino IV and former Interior Secretary Manuel Mar Roxas II would win. However, the two have slipped in and out of the list of possible winners, with the latest Pulse Asia poll only placing Aquino at the 10-14 rank, tied with four other bets, and Roxas in the 14-17 tier. Pimentel echoed sentiments of opposition figures that only two of their Senate bets would snag a seat, but added that it is even possible for them to completely lose. If no opposition Senate bet manages to clinch a seat on May 13, the Senate minority bloc would be left with only four members Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon and Senators Francis Kiko Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros and Leila de Lima. Aside from Aquino, opposition Senator Senator Antonio Trillanes IV's term also ends next month. However, De Lima is still detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Camp Crame over drug charges, leaving the minority bloc with only three votes on the Senate floor. Even with six senators in the minority bloc now, they were still easily outvoted by the majority bloc on key issues backed by President Rodrigo Duterte like the two postponements of the barangay elections and the extension of martial law in Mindanao. Proposals from the members of the minority bloc to hold hearings on Chinas reported incursions in Philippine waters was also left gathering dust on the desks of senators heading committees who hail from the majority bloc. The Senate majority also blocked the minority in their bid to pass a resolution questioning the Supreme Courts ouster of Maria Lourdes Sereno as chief justice. However, the Senate has also taken a different path from the administration in certain issues. Bills for the restoration of the death penalty, the second package of the administration tax reform and Charter change, among others, remain pending in the upper chamber as senators are wary of acting on them. CNN Philippines Researcher Dessy Bautista contributed to this report. Toronto, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just over one-third (37 per cent) of the worlds 246 longest rivers remain free-flowing, according to a new study published in the scientific journal Nature. Of those found in North America, 73 per cent are in Canada. Dams and reservoirs are drastically reducing the diverse benefits that healthy rivers provide to people and nature across the globe. This study, from a team of international researchers including two WWF-Canada experts, highlights Canadas enviable position of a significant majority (92 per cent) of our river lengths being free-flowing. While this is positive news for Canadas freshwater ecosystems and wildlife, recent research from WWF-Canada emphasizes that much needs to be done to ensure the health of these rivers into the future: In 2017 WWF-Canadas Watershed Reports, a groundbreaking assessment of watershed stressors and health, found that two-thirds of Canadas watersheds are lacking necessary data to understand the health of the ecosystem, or make evidence-based water management decisions. WWF-Canada has identified Canadas 10 longest wild rivers , those free-flowing rivers that are not negatively impacted by pollution, habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, overuse of water, invasive species, climate change or alteration of flows. These provide essential ecological, cultural and community benefits, but are largely unprotected. , those free-flowing rivers that are not negatively impacted by pollution, habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, overuse of water, invasive species, climate change or alteration of flows. These provide essential ecological, cultural and community benefits, but are largely unprotected. WWF-Canadas Wildlife Protection Assessment measured the extent to which habitats across the country are represented in Canadas protected area network and found we are not safeguarding critical species freshwater habitat including lakes, rivers and wetlands. Elizabeth Hendriks, vice-president freshwater at World Wildlife Fund Canada says: This study confirms what many of us think: Canada is uniquely endowed with wild and free-flowing rivers. With this wealth of freshwater, Canada has a great responsibility to protect it. And yet, our river protection is severely lacking. Its like we have inherited a priceless jewel and are neglecting to insure it. In many cases we simply dont know how freshwater health and wildlife are responding to stress from human activities. And, for the most part, our protected areas have overlooked freshwater ecosystems and habitats. This is all happening at a time when climate change is dictating that we must transition away from fossil fuels, creating new and increasing demand on our sensitive freshwater systems. We believe in science-based solutions and working with industry and government to ensure that Canadas transition to the low-carbon economy doesnt come at the expense of our free-flowing rivers. Now is the time to identify those areas that should be protected for wildlife and communities into the future. Lets not leave the fate of our wild and free-flowing rivers to chance. About the new study in Nature: A team of 34 international researchers from McGill University, World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWF) and other institutions assessed the connectivity status of 12 million kilometers of rivers worldwide, providing the first ever global assessment of the location and extent of the planets remaining free-flowing rivers. Researchers determined only 21 of the worlds 91 rivers longer than 1,000 km that originally flowed to the ocean still retain a direct source-to- sea connection. The planets remaining free-flowing rivers are largely restricted to remote regions of the Arctic, the Amazon Basin and the Congo Basin. The worlds rivers form an intricate network with vital links to land, groundwater and the atmosphere, says the studys lead author, Gunther Grill of McGill Universitys Department of Geography. Free-flowing rivers are important for humans and the environment alike, yet economic development around the world is making them increasingly rare. Using satellite imagery and other data, our study examines the extent of these rivers in more detail than ever before. Dams and reservoirs are the leading contributors to connectivity loss in global rivers. The study estimates there are around 60,000 large dams worldwide. More than 3,700 hydropower dams are planned or under construction. They are often built at the individual project level, making it difficult to assess their real impacts across an entire basin or region. This first ever map allows us to prioritize and protect the worlds remaining free-flowing rivers, as these are lifelines for wildlife and people across the globe, says Michele Thieme, lead freshwater scientist at WWF. Rivers provide diverse benefits that are often overlooked and undervalued. Decision makers must consider the full value of rivers when they plan new infrastructure. Healthy rivers support freshwater fish stocks that improve food security for hundreds of millions of people, deliver sediment that keeps deltas above rising seas, mitigate the impact of extreme floods and droughts, prevent loss of infrastructure and fields to erosion and support a wealth of biodiversity. Disrupting a rivers connectivity often diminishes, or even eliminates, these critical ecosystem services. Protecting remaining free-flowing rivers is also crucial to saving biodiversity in freshwater systems. Recent analysis of 16,704 populations of wildlife globally showed that populations of freshwater species experienced the most pronounced decline of all vertebrates over the past half-century, falling on average 83 per cent since 1970. The study also notes that climate change will further threaten the health of rivers worldwide. Rising temperatures are already impacting flow patterns, water quality and biodiversity. Meanwhile, as countries around the world shift to low-carbon economies, hydropower planning and development is accelerating, adding urgency to the need to develop energy systems that minimize environmental and social impact. While hydropower inevitably has a role to play in the renewable energy landscape, countries should also consider other renewable options, says Thieme. Well-planned wind and solar energy can have less detrimental impacts on rivers and the communities, cities and biodiversity that rely on them. The international community is committed to protect and restore rivers under Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, which requires countries to track the extent and condition of water-related ecosystems. This study delivers methods and data necessary for countries to maintain and restore free-flowing rivers around the world. What are Canadas longest wild rivers? Canada has a wealth of wild rivers. The majority are in the North, where fewer people live. Canadas longest wild rivers are: Liard River (Yukon Territory, British Columbia, Northwest Territories) Kazan River (Nunavut) Dubawnt River (Nunavut, Northwest Territories) Thelon River (Nunavut, Northwest Territories) Horton River (Northwest Territories) Anderson River (Northwest Territories) Taltson River (Northwest Territories) Stikine River (British Columbia) Ekwan River (Ontario) Birch River (Alberta) Why wild rivers are worth safeguarding Wild rivers provide numerous ecological and community benefits, including: Benefit wildlife (including species at risk) that rely on intact river ecosystems; Facilitate climate change adaptation; Allow for the unhindered transportation of nutrients for plants and animals; Maintain a healthy food supply for communities; Support native biodiversity; Provide pollution control; Support vibrant industries; Provide substantial cultural and spiritual value. Wildlife, including many species at risk, rely on the health and resilience of wild rivers as a source of water, food and habitat. Wildlife that benefit from wild rivers include: Threatened caribou herds wolverines grizzly bears wood bison Chinook salmon lake sturgeon muskrat green-winged teal Arctic grayling tundra swans The tiny hot water physa a prehistoric snail found only in Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, British Columbia. About World Wildlife Fund Canada WWF-Canada creates solutions to the environmental challenges that matter most for Canadians. We work in places that are unique and ecologically important, so that nature, wildlife and people thrive together. Because we are all wildlife. For more information, visit wwf.ca . For further information Rebecca Spring, senior communications specialist, rspring@wwfcanada.org, +1 647-338-6274 A South Carolina man was arrested last week and charged with fraud after deputies assisted state troopers in a traffic stop, Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell said. On Friday, Deputy C.S. Little assisted a state trooper with a traffic stop on Interstate 77 near Union Grove, according to a news release. Campbell said Deputy Little was informed the driver was stopped for speeding. The driver gave the trooper a South Carolina drivers license, and further investigation found that the drivers license didnt belong to him, the release stated. Campbell said the driver was identified as Roger Dee Moore, of Lynchburg, and stated he gave authorities his brothers license because his was suspended. Little found a firearm in the glove compartment and a magazine in the center console of the car while searching the vehicle, according to the release. A background check was also done on Moore, 31, and found he was a felon. Moore was then taken into custody and charged with felony identity theft, possession of a firearm by a felon and misdemeanor carrying a concealed weapon. A body found off North Rankin Avenue in Newton in March was identified as Gary Lee Johnson, 49, of Newton, according to a Newton Police Department press release issued Tuesday. Johnson was reported missing on Dec. 3, 2018 by a friend. According to the release, police went to Johnsons home and searched the surrounding area on multiple occasions but never located him. On Dec. 17, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation assisted the search with cadaver dogs for eight hours, but Johnson was nowhere to be found. Newton police responded on March 11 to the 1500 block of North Rankin Avenue and found an unidentified body. The North Carolina State Crime Laboratory did not make a positive identification until April 29, the release said. Johnsons death is not considered suspicious, and investigators are awaiting toxicology results to determine an exact cause of death. Davis Regional Medical Center is offering a Stop the Bleed course for the community on Thursday, May 23 during National Stop the Bleed Day. Classes are offered throughout the day at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. Reservations are requested. Stop The Bleed was motivated by the 2012 tragedy at Sandy Hook as well as other multiple tragedies that have occurred in the ensuing years. Typically, victims of these types of incidents suffer from severe bleeding which, if left unattended, can result in death. The leaders who began this initiative concluded that lives could be saved by providing the skills and basic tools to stop uncontrolled bleeding in an emergency situation. Individuals who benefit from the training are people who may be called upon to provide initial trauma care and bleeding control in a traumatic injury but who have little or no medical training. Mooresville K9 Officer Jordan Sheldon, who was shot and killed during a traffic stop in Mooresville late Saturday night, received an honorary procession as he was escorted by officers and first responders to a funeral home in Concord. Sheldon was escorted from the Medical Examiners Office in Mecklenburg County to Hartsell Funeral Home in Concord with the help of public safety officials from Iredell County and surrounding areas. What once was the busy street of Copperfield Boulevard became silent as flashing lights rounded the corner. Business patrons and community members stopped what they were doing to walk outside and pay tribute to Sheldon. Many were standing and holding hands while others took off their hats and put their hand across their heart. Though silent, the emotions rang loudly. A dogs light bark could be heard from inside a K-9 unit vehicle and some officers could be seen wiping tears from their eyes as they rode by slowly. During the procession the skies filled with dark clouds, but over the building the sun shone as the hearse carrying Sheldon arrived. 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All resolutions proposed were approved by the shareholders. The minutes from the Annual General Meeting are attached to this announcement: Minutes from Annual General Meeting 2019- Norwegian Minutes from Annual General Meeting 2019- English Company summary TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company (TGS) provides multi-client geoscience data to oil and gas Exploration and Production companies worldwide. In addition to extensive global geophysical and geological data libraries that include multi-client seismic data, magnetic and gravity data, digital well logs, production data and directional surveys, TGS also offers advanced processing and imaging services, interpretation products, and data integration solutions. For more information visit TGS online at www.tgs.com . Forward-looking statements and contact information All statements in this press release other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, which are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove accurate. These factors include TGS' reliance on a cyclical industry and principle customers, TGS' ability to continue to expand markets for licensing of data, and TGS' ability to acquire and process data products at costs commensurate with profitability. Actual results may differ materially from those expected or projected in the forward-looking statements. TGS undertakes no responsibility or obligation to update or alter forward-looking statements for any reason. TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company ASA is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSLO:TGS). TGS sponsored American Depositary Shares trade on the U.S. over-the-counter market under the symbol "TGSGY. For additional information about this press release please contact: Sven Brre Larsen Chief Financial Officer Tel: +47 90 94 36 73 Email: investor@tgs.com Attachments The European People's Party (EPP) has a very "strong" connection with the centre-right entities in Romania that are members of the common European groups, as they are "important" allies of ours and together we are going to defend such values as independent justice, rule of law state, democracy, fight against corruption, EPP leader, Joseph Daul stated on Wednesday. "Romania is very important for the EPP and for me, personally, for I visited this country back when I was the head of the (EP's) Committee for Agriculture, too. We have strong connections with the PNL (National Liberal Party) and we collaborate closely with Mr Ludovic Orban. We've had an excellent collaboration with Jean Marian Marinescu and Siegfried Muresan as well (...) PNL and the other centre-right parties from Romania, which are in the EPP, are very important allies to us in this electoral campaign. For together we defend the values that we share and that unite us, namely independent justice, rule of law, democracy, freedom and solidarity. And these are important elements for all and I think of the European citizens when I bring up such notions as independent justice, rule of law and the fight against corruption. A vote for PNL allows it to strengthen Romania's role in Europe and PNL is the only party with chances to win the elections and remove thus PSD from power," the EPP head told a press conference he held jointly with the PNL leader, Ludovic Orban. According to him, on May 26, the day of the election to the European Parliament, "PNL will represent the change that can bring a new push to Romania, by putting an end to the chaos generated by the PSD, for it is "the only centre-right political party that has the power and European experience to represent the Romanians' interest as best as possible at European level." He hailed Romanians who went on the streets to defend democracy. "I hail the courage and determination of Romanians who went to the streets to protest against the direction their countries was heading to. PNL and the entire EPP listen to them very carefully. Alongside PNL, EPP must come with concrete answers for the Romanian and European citizens," said Daul. The EPP leader announced, that, immediately after the May 26 election, there will be a leaders' meeting to discuss the decision of the European citizens, the number of MEPs, offices, so that everything will be as clear as possible in June. "Let's not let the populist confusion affect our path, let's not leave the EU in chaos. (...) Let's prevent a situation similar to Brexit. And we also very much want that Mr Manfred Weber becomes President of the European Commission and we will insist on this to happen," he mentioned. The Executive Bureau of the PNL met on Wednesday in Sibiu, with President Klaus Iohannis, the head of the European People's Party, Joseph Daul, and the EPP Secretary General, Antonio Lopez-Isturiz White participating. On Thursday, in Sibiu, there will be held the European People's Party Summit. Participating in the meeting organised at the headquarters of the ASTRA Museum of the Traditional Folk Civilisation will be President Klaus Iohannis, EPP head, Joseph Daul, the head of the EPP Group in the EP, Manfred Weber, and the PNL head, Ludovic Orban. Former Mayor of Constanta Radu Mazare was picked up by the authorities in Madagascar and he is being held in police custody, this measure being taken following an warrant issued by the Romanian authorities through Interpol, judiciary sources told AGERPRES on Wednesday. The quoted sources mentioned that the former mayor was picked up about two hours ago and he is being held in custody. On Wednesday, the Romanian Police conveyed that the authorities in Madagascar informed, through the International Police Cooperation Center, that a Romanian citizen, internationally wanted due to the enforcement of a 9-year prison sentence, was arrested for a period of six days. "The Romanian Police has be constantly in touch with the authorities in Madagascar, collaboration with them in view of tracking and arresting the person who is internationally wanted. The person arrested by the Madagascar authorities was sentenced by the Bucharest Court of Appeals in 2017, for committing the offenses of abuse of office in a continuous form and the establishment of an organised criminal group," the release mentions. The authorities in Romania issued an internationally wanted warrant for Radu Mazare. Mazare fled to Madagascar for more than one year and there he had been taking steps to obtain asylum. Foreign Minister Teodor Melescanu announced on Wednesday having sent to President Klaus Iohannis a proposal for the recall of Romania's ambassador to the United States George Maior. "I have sent to the Presidency a proposal for ambassador George Maior to be recalled, a proposal based on an analysis of the impact of relationships with the United States - a strategic partner of Romania - as evidenced by a report on the use of the Romanian Intelligence Service by Mr George Maior for personal purposes - an official document of Parliament adopted on April 18, 2019, to which added is a ruling of the Constitutional Court of Romania (CCR) of January 16, 2019 on SRI's protocols with judicial authorities which seriously violated the fundamental rights and freedoms of Romanian citizens or the interests of the country. (...) We have done a very technical analysis based on all the documents that exist at Parliament level," Melescanu told B1 TV private broadcaster. Asked about who will replace George Maior, Melescanu said he awaits the decision of the head of state. "So far, I have sent the proposal to the president, we will see what his decision is. There is no problem finding a replacement, but we must first see what the president's stand is," said Melescanu. AGERPRES President Klaus Iohannis said Wednesday that he will make a final decision on the requested recall of Romania's ambassador to the US George Maior after an EU summit in Sibiu. "I have seen this letter and immediately after we finish the summit I will make a decision on this issue," Iohannis said. A proposal from Romania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) to have Maior recalled is said to have come after an assessment of his diplomatic mission, whose actions no longer allow to him to credibly promote Romania's interests in the United States. According to a MAE press statement released Wednesday, "the recall proposal came into being as a result of the MAE's analysis of the term in office of ambassador George Maior and was based on assessing the impact on Romania's relationships with the US, a strategic partner of Romania, as evidenced by report on the use of the Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI) by Mr Ambassador George Maior for personal purposes, an official document of the Romanian Parliament." The report of the Standing Committee of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate on SRI Oversight was published on April 18. At the same time, the ministry reiterates a request from the Romanian Senate's Foreign Affairs Committee that MAE should make an analysis of the ambassador's mission and the ruling of the Constitutional Court of Romania "regarding the protocols concluded by SRI with judicial authorities, which seriously violated the fundamental rights and freedoms of Romanian citizens or the interests of Romania." "Therefore, the above mentioned actions do not allow Mr George Maior to credibly promote Romania's interests in the United States of America," says MAE. In accordance with the legislation and practice in the field, the President, upon the proposal of the government, may accredit and recall the diplomatic representatives of Romania abroad. President Klaus Iohannis stated on Wednesday that the current issues and challenges are very complex at internal and external level, underscoring that the Sibiu Summit "will have to certainly confirm" that the agenda of the political actor is one and the same with that of the European citizens. He showed that the European leaders should outline a strengthened future plan. "The 'Sibiu' moment will have to certainly confirm the fact that the agenda of political actors is one and the same with that of the European citizens. The map of current issues and challenges is very complex, at internal and external level - strengthening economic growth, ensuring jobs, ensuring internal and external security. The new destabilisation phenomena, including misinformation and fake news campaigns, risk deepening the state of uncertainty. In this context, we need a track of European policies that ensures a greater convergence and leads us, clearly, to a better, prosperous future, without divisions or fragmentation at European level. The feeling of uncertainty can only be overcome if the European Union acts together and the European leadership sends a clear message that they are committed to continue the process of European integration. There is no other way in front of the current global challenges," Iohannis said at the conference called "The Future of Europe: Perspectives of the Contemporary Evolutions." The conference took place on the sidelines of the informal summit of the European Union heads of state and government. Among the attendees of the event there were Estonia's Prime Minister Juri Ratas and mayor of Sibiu Astrid Fodor. On Monday, May 6, the deadline set by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) expired in order for the parties in the Kovesi vs. Romania to answer the four preliminary questions. The Romanian government has called for a postponement in this case, states state secretary Viorel Mocanu, the governmental agent of Romania at the ECHR. "An eight-week delay was requested because we havent obtained all the documents based on which the Government should base its conclusions on the rejection of the application on the merits as well as on the admissibility," said Viorel Mocanu for STIRIPESURSE.RO. The Process Kovesi vs. Romania became public on the portal of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) on 18 February 2019. The complaint was filed on December 28, 2018, Kovesi denouncing that she was refused the right for defense in the country as a result of her dismissal from the DNA. On January 30, 2019, the case was communicated to the Romanian authorities. In December last year, Laura Codruta Kovesi attacked the ECHR decision by which she was revoked from the DNA, the former Chief Prosecutor arguing that many of her rights under the European Convention on Human Rights were violated. Laura Codruta Kovesi appealed at the European Court of Human Rights the decision to revoke her position as chief prosecutor of DNA, the complaint being filed in December last year. The complaint shows that human rights have been attacked. In December 2018, I filed a personal complaint with the European Court of Human Rights, in which I have shown that many of the rights provided by the European Convention on Human Rights have been violated as regards to the revocation of the position of Chief Prosecutor of the DNA as following the decision No. 358 of 30 May 2018 issued by the Constitutional Court. The reasons I raised in the action concerned that, by its decision, the Constitutional Court decided to revoke the mandate, although we had not been a party to the conflict settled by the constitutional court, I was not summoned before the Constitutional Court and I did not have the opportunity to have at least the quality of "intervener" to express my point of view in my defense, "says Laura Codruta Kovesi, sent by the press office of the General Prosecutor's Office. Romania's FOB exports this January totaled 5.51 billion euro, with 21.3 pct thereof bound for non-EU countries, shows data centralized by the National Institute of Statistics. The value of exports to the 27 EU member states was 4.6 pct up to 4.33 million euro.Exports to EFTA states and other European countries amounted to 522 million euro, with the highest amounts going to Turkey (138.4 million euro), Russia (89.3 million euro) and Serbia (72.8 million euro).Exports to the Middle East and Near East stood at 127.1 million euro (down 20 pct from January 2018), with the top ranked destinations as follows: Israel (29.2 million euro, plus 15.2 pct), Lebanon (26.5 million euro, plus 36.4 pct), the United Arab Emirates (plus 16.1 million euro, minus 47.2 pct) and Georgia (16.1 million, plus 78.5 pct).Exports to other Asian countries totaled 144.2 million euro (minus 4 pct), going mainly to China (50.1 million euro, plus 24.4 pct), Japan (25.8 million euro, plus 48.8 pct) and the Republic of Korea (16.7 million euro, plus 32.7 pct).As much as 148.8 million euro worth of Romania's exports were bound for North Africa (plus 0.07 percent), mainly to Morocco (48.4 million euro, plus 16.1 percent), Egypt (47.6 million euro, minus 10.2 pct) and Algeria (30.4 million euro, plus 2.2 pct). Goods worth 47.3 million euro (plus 140.5 pct) were shipped to other African countries.Exports to North America totaled 114.5 million euro (minus 6.8 pct), of which 105 million euro (minus 6.5 pct) bound for the US and 9.2 million euro for Canada (minus 9.4 pct).Exports to Central America and the Caribbean amounted to 19.4 million euro, those to South America stood at 35.7 million euro, and to Oceania at 6.9 million euro. The Romanian government will approve under a memorandum its convergence programme 2019, Prime Minister Premier Viorica Dancila said Wednesday, adding that according to the budget planning this year, the government deficit is estimated at 2.78 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). "Another document we have on today's agenda is the convergence programme that we will be submitting to the European Union as a component of the European Semester, the main tool for Europe 2020. The convergence programme 2019 is based on the 2019-2021 fiscal-budgeting strategy and the forecast under a medium-term macroeconomic framework. I would like to point out that, according to budget planning this year, the budget deficit is estimated at 2.78 percent of GDP. Romania will keep up its robust economic growth, among the highest inside the EU. We will continue the economic boom, with GDP growth estimated at 5.5pct in 2019 and 5.7pct in 2020," Dancila told the opening of a government meeting on Wednesday. She added that "investment will be strengthened amidst improving implementation of projects funded by European funds, increasing the income of the population, as well as increasing and diversifying the national financing sources." "Romania also maintains its commitment to joining the Eurozone in 2024, and in 2018 we have made concrete steps in that respect," Dancila said. AGERPRES Prime Minister Viorica Dancila announced on Wednesday that she will ask President Klaus Iohannis to request Romania's accession to Schengen and the lifting of the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism (CVM) within the Summit in Sibiu. "Romania is hosting, in Sibiu, the Summit of the heads of state and government, an important event both for our country, which holds the rotating Presidency of the EU Council and for the future of the European project. Romania's Government, the PSD [Social Democratic Party] and the ALDE [Alliance of Liberals and Democrats] ministers have proven in all the events organised within the rotating Presidency that they promote Romania's, EU's interests and they have the ability to propose solutions agreed by all member states. I tried to build a normal relation with an institution of the Romanian state, for the benefit of Romania and Romanians. This thing was not a request, it was a gesture of normality. I see the reality, I see that the personal interest, the electoral interest of President Iohannis is the one that matters. I ask President Iohannis to request Romania's accession to Schengen and the lifting of the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism within the Summit in Sibiu, because any meeting should have a concrete result for the citizens. The interests of Romania and Romanians should be found within the results of this Sibiu Summit," the PM stated in the beginning of the Government meeting. AGERPRES The Government will approve a normative act on the organisation of the election on May 26, 2019, when there are elected the representatives of Romania to the European Parliament, and also of the national referendum called by the Romanian President on the same day, in order to establish the technical details that will ensure a fair, transparent and democratic electoral process, stated Prime Minister Viorica Dancila. "We will approve today new measures for the organisation of the election on May 26, 2019, when there are elected the representatives of Romania to the European Parliament, and also for the organisation of the national referendum called by the Romanian President on the same day. I've noticed that certain aspects from the emergency ordinance that supplements the referendum law were long debated upon. This is another proof that misinformation practiced by the opposition works and that some people choose to lie in the electoral fight instead of telling the truth. In reality, the normative act that we are going to adopt today establishes all the technical details that will ensure a fair, transparent, democratic electoral process. The ministries only approved the establishment of measures to ensure that the entire voting process will go smooth, in both the election to the European Parliament and the public consultation, and the modifications brought by the normative in no way violates any right," stated Viorica Dancila, on Wednesday, in the opening of the Government meeting. The head of the Executive also added that the Government used all its instruments to ensure the citizens' right to vote, which is a fundamental right in a democratic society and to guarantee the correctitude of the results. AGERPRES TORONTO, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Opiikapawiin Services LP (OSLP), in partnership with Natural Resources Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines, and Wataynikaneyap Power, are delivering a unique energy capacity building and empowerment program for youth aged 18-25 from the 24 owner First Nations. The program is designed to engage youth in the Wataynikaneyap Power transmission project by providing Indigenous-centred introductory energy curriculum, job shadowing and an introduction to careers in the powerline industry. The program will build capacity among six youth per year over the course of 5 years with a total of 30 projected participants. Natural Resources Canada has provided $400,000 in funding with in-kind contributions from OSLP, ENDM and Wataynikaneyap Power. Community engagement is vital to the communities having ownership of the process, and we are excited and looking forward to hearing more feedback and input from the youth through the Energizing Youth Network on their perspective of the transmission line, says Lucie Edwards, CEO of OSLP. Capacity building and job shadowing will provide a good foundation for youth to get involved and start their pathway to meaningful careers. Part of the vision is to mentor our youth to discover careers and land meaningful jobs. This means our youth will be ready to lead this company and its operation into the future, says Margaret Kenequanash, CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power. Youth from the 24 Wataynikaneyap Power owner communities will be invited to apply to the program and participate in a two-week unique training course which will include an introduction to the Wataynikaneyap Project and energy in remote First Nations. They will learn about renewable energy, fundamentals of electricity, improving communication and Indigenous values related to energy. Participants will be empowered and challenged to consider their vision for life in their communities with a transmission line and what role they can play in their communitys future. Following the course, they will be mentored in a job shadow work placement that matches their interests and strengths. Work experience could be related to community energy planning and management, youth engagement in energy conservation, electrical safety and housing, public works and community electrical systems, etc. The participants will apply what they have learned to design and deliver a community level energy initiative that meets a unique need in their community. This project will provide youth with the skills necessary to take up leadership roles in their communities to build and manage clean energy initiatives, which incorporate not only sustainable practices but also community values, says Paul Lefebvre, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources. This investment will encourage clean energy training and education, and promote employment opportunities locally. About Wataynikaneyap Power: Wataynikaneyap Power is a licensed transmission company, regulated by the Ontario Energy Board, and majority-owned by a partnership of 24 First Nation communities in partnership with private investors led by Fortis Inc. To connect remote First Nations communities to the electrical grid, Wataynikaneyap Power will develop, manage construction, and operate approximately 1,800 kilometers of transmission lines in northwestern Ontario. For further information, visit www.wataypower.ca . About Opiikapawiin Services LP: Opiikapawiin Services was established by a partnership of 24 First Nations in Northwestern Ontario; the 24 First Nations Partnership is also a majority owner in Wataynikaneyap Power. Opiikapawiin Services is responsible for administering projects and programs for Wataynikaneyap Power relating to community engagement, community readiness, education & training, business readiness, stakeholder engagement (including government relations), communications, and capacity building. Opiikapawiin Services will also support the First Nations Partnership in the management of its investment in Wataynikaneyap Power, which includes raising equity for the First Nations interest in the transmission project. For further information, visit www.oslp.ca . Media Contacts: Kristine Carmichael FortisOntario (905) 994-3637 Kristine.carmichael@fortisontario.com Jordan Sturgeon Opiikapawiin Services LP (807) 474-3300 j.sturgeon@olsp.ca A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c2db8d9-6100-4d7c-9e23-4bd1e10b8352 PNL (National Liberal Party) leader Ludovic Orban on Wednesday met in Sibiu the leader of the EPP (European People's Party), Joseph Daul, on which occasion they discussed about what's at stake in the May 26 election to the European Parliament, for both Europe's and Romania's future. "Romania first of all belongs to the political family of the European People's Party, through the National Liberal Party. PNL is right there at the decisions' table in the most important moments for the EU and this is to the benefit of all Romanians. EPP, and along it the National Liberal Party, will win these election and continue to rule the European Commission, the European Parliament and the European Council. We guarantee together the further development of the European project, which gave us the longest period of peace and prosperity that we ever had," Ludovic Orban wrote on his Facebook page According to the same source, the two leaders agreed that "the conflict generated by such leaders who are only interested in their own personal affairs with the European Union brings no good to anyone, for such conflicts do nothing else but weaken the stands of the countries they represent, while affecting the general interests of the citizens." AGERPRES President Klaus Iohannis and German Chancellor Angela Merkel will have a meeting with representatives of the Democratic Forum of Germans in Romania (FDGR) on Thursday. The meeting will take place after the informal Summit of heads of state or government of the European Union. The EU Summit will end after a joint conference held by President Klaus Iohannis alongside European Council President Donald Tusk and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. AGERPRES The proposal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) to recall Romania's ambassador to the United States George Maior has come after analysing the diplomatic mission and finding that his actions "do not allow him to credibly promote Romania's interests in the States United of America." According to a MAE press statement released Wednesday, "the recall proposal came into being as a result of the MAE's analysis of the term in office of ambassador George Maior and was based on assessing the impact on Romania's relationships with the US, a strategic partner of Romania, as evidenced by report on the use of the Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI) by Mr Ambassador George Maior for personal purposes, an official document of the Romanian Parliament." The report of the Standing Committee of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate on SRI Oversight was published on April 18. At the same time, the ministry reiterates a request from the Romanian Senate's Foreign Affairs Committee that MAE should make an analysis of the ambassador's mission and the ruling of the Constitutional Court of Romania "regarding the protocols concluded by SRI with judicial authorities, which seriously violated the fundamental rights and freedoms of Romanian citizens or the interests of Romania." "Therefore, the above mentioned actions do not allow Mr George Maior to credibly promote Romania's interests in the United States of America," says MAE. MAE on Wednesday submitted to the President of Romania a proposal to recall ambassador Maior. In accordance with the legislation and practice in the field, the President, upon the proposal of the government, may accredit and recall the diplomatic representatives of Romania abroad. The heads of state or government of the EU will meet on Thursday at an informal summit in central Sibiu to discuss the future of the EU, European Council President Donald Tusk highlighting in a a letter addressed to the participants that he will propose the adoption of a declaration to convey "a message of unity and trust". The summit, hosted by Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, will take place in the Sibiu City Hall building and takes place in the context of Romania's presidency of the Council of the European Union.The meeting will be chaired by European Council President Donald Tusk.On Monday, Tusk sent an open letter to the participants in the Summit in Sibiu, where he voiced his expectations of this dialogue.We will gather in Sibiu on Europe Day to discuss strategic plans for the European Union in the years to come. In this context, I propose to adopt the Declaration in Sibiu to convey a message of unity and trust in our common actions, the high-level official highlighted.He also referred to the EU Strategic Agenda for the next five years.Following the discussions in Sibiu, we will formulate the EU Strategic Agenda for 2019-2024, to be adopted by the European Council in June, Tusk reminded.The guiding topics for discussion in Sibiu, according to the agenda published on the European Council website, aim to address the protection of the EU borders, individual freedoms, the rule of law, illegal migration or the fight against misinformation, but also the consolidation of the single market and climate change."We are on the eve of European elections, the EU has gone through and resolved so many crises and I think it takes a forward-looking optimism message that shows that we, the leaders, are willing to move on, we are willing to generate what we promise - well-being and security for the citizens. And we must show that we know what we want with the European Union, and that is what we will prove here in Sibiu on Thursday," President Klaus Iohannis said on Tuesday.The heads of state or government will be joined by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Parliament Antonio Tajani, and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini.On Wednesday, Iohannis and Juncker will participate in a debate on the future of Europe at a forum organized by the European Commission in Sibiu for 300 young people.The entire city center of Sibiu is reserved for the summit. The central moments will be held in the Sibiu City Hall and the Brukenthal Palace, where a working lunch will take place. In the courtyard of the Evangelical Church, the Huet Square, the Big Square and the Small Square, tents are set up for conferences, for journalists to report, but also for access control.The informal summit will bring together heads of state and government of EU member states in Sibiu, 36 official delegations, 400 high-level guests, about 900 journalists and 100 translators. PLUS (Party of Liberty, Unity and Solidarity) leader Dacian Ciolos said in Deva, Hunedoara County (center-west) on Tuesday, that the 2020 USR-PLUS Alliance is assuming that it will get at least six mandates in the future European Parliament, and holds that depending on turnout, their number could rise to ten. "We continue to assume that we will have at least six mandates, perhaps eight, nine, ten, depending on the final outcome. As I have told you, our result will certainly be proportional to people's turnout because we know that we have a mobilized pool of supporters and we see these people in the street," Dacian Ciolos said in a press conference.The PLUS leader mentioned that the alliance he is part of heavily relies on volunteers participating in the election campaign, but also on the fact that people "are beginning to understand the importance of voting.""We do not bring people by bus to rallies - you have seen, people are dancing at our rallies. We do not force people to come to give us signatures because they are state employees - as PSD [ruling Social Democratic party, ed.n.] does, we gather the signatures in the street. We have very many volunteers and this is what we counted on throughout the entire campaign and I would like to thank them. We have many volunteers who can be party members with PLUS, with USR [Save Romania Union, ed.n.], but there are many who are not party members and help us because they believe in the goals we have, and that's why we believe in mobilizing people to vote, not because it's just us who say it, but because people begin to understand the importance of voting," Ciolos said. The National Liberal Party (PNL) is in electoral competition with the parties in the opposition, too, it has no friends and must prove it is the largest political party in Romania, the Liberals' fourth-position candidate to the European Parliament election Vasile Blaga, at a Tuesday's electoral meeting in northeastern Suceava County, attended by thousands of people. "In these elections we are in electoral competition with the opposition, as well. We have no friends in this electoral campaign. We are at loggerheads with them all, because a party has one only dowry: the number of votes. It has nothing else, hence we will count our chickens only after the election. Some with the sack, some with the handkerchief, each with what they have," Blaga asserted.Vasile Blaga added that the PNL must prove in these elections that it is the largest party in Romania and after that they will talk about alliances."Then we can certainly talk about alliances, other things, too, but until then we must demonstrate that we are the largest political party not from the right wing, but from Romania, I trust it will be. God help us!'' Blaga told the participants in the electoral meeting. Senate President Calin Popescu-Tariceanu welcomed on Wednesday China's new Ambassador to Romania Jiang Yu, who is on a presentation visit, occasion on which the Senate President underscored the Romanian side's desire and ability to increase the volume of bilateral trade exchanges. "The Senate President underscored the Romanian side's desire and ability to increase the volume of bilateral trade exchanges, especially the export of agro-food products, taking into account that the People's Republic of China is one of the most important trade partners of Romania in the Asian area," a Senate release sent to AGERPRES on Wednesday shows. Tariceanu also mentioned the entire availability to attract the involvement of the Chinese side in large infrastructure projects, including in public-private partnership, showing that these have an additional contribution to the development of the relations between Romania and the People's Republic of China. The Senate President commended the Ambassador for her appointment and wished her success in exercising the mandate, assuring her of the entire support of the Romanian authorities for strengthening the Romanian-Chinese relations. "Mr Calin Popescu-Tariceanu evoked the recent visit to Romania, in April 2018, of the delegation of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference led by First-ranked Vice-Chairman Zhang Qingli, underscoring its importance for strengthening and diversifying the political and economic ties between Romania and China, including in the context of celebrating 70 years since the establishment of the diplomatic relations and 15 years since the establishment of the Ample Friendship and Cooperation Partnership," the release informs. MONTREAL, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Maya Gold & Silver Inc. (Maya or the Corporation) (TSX: MYA) is pleased to inform its shareholders about positive findings at Azegour. Mayas geological team accompanied by the independent consultant GoldMinds examined all accessible ground deposits and underground drifts at Azegour. Samples of the various mineralizations were collected and an elaborated program has been prepared. The assays results will be disclosed in the future. The samples were delivered to Afrilab of Marrakech. A laboratory site visit and inspection took place during the delivery of the Azegour samples. The exploration and development program is expected to include surveying of accessible drifts, scanning of stopes, securing of accesses, channel sampling, dewatering of lower levels, scaling, UG percussion drilling, surface diamond drilling and metallurgical testing. Mayas geologist concludes that it is now obvious that the previous operators did not exploit all the mineralizations, especially the Scheelite which have been followed along hundreds of meters with widths of 5 up to 35m at various levels of the main mine. The Scheelite, a tungsten mineral which reacts to UV light is visible as a Milky way using Ultra Violet light underground as well as lenses of chalcopyrite and molybdenite in various sections of the mine and in drifts to the north. Noureddine Mokaddem Founder, President and CEO comments: The findings of our geological team give us comfort that Azegour can become another important asset of Maya. We expect to initiate the work program in mid-June and will continue until PEA is announced during Q4-2019. Qualified Persons The technical content of this news release has been reviewed by Claude Duplessis Eng., from GoldMinds Geoservices Inc. independent Qualified Persons under NI 43-101 standards. About Azegour The Azegour property is located in the Tizguine-Amizmiz-Azegour area, High Atlas Occidental, Province of Marrakech, Kingdom of Morocco. The property is situated 54 km NNE from the town of Marrakech and 7.2 km WSW from the town of Amizmiz. The Exploitation Licence (PE 183208) covers an area of 16 km2 (4 km x 4 km) (Figure 1). The center of the property is situated at 8 18 14 West Longitude and 31 09 33 North Latitude, or at coordinates: Easting= 222924, Northing= 66813 (North Morocco, Merchich) reaching an elevation of 1597 m ASL. The boundary stone (Point de Pivot) for permit no. PE 183208 is established at coordinates Easting= 221291 and Northing= 71511 (North Morocco, Merchich). The Exploitation Permit entitles the holder to work the deposit and dispose of the substances, herein Mo, W, Cu, Pb and Zn and provides legal access to the property. It is valid for a period of four years and was renewed on July 2015 until July 16, 2019; further renewal is underway. Under the terms of an agreement dated March 2, 2011 between Maya Gold and Silver Inc. and Ouiselsat Mines, Maya acquired 100% interest of the Exploitation Permit 183208 and all the outstanding data for a total consideration of 20 million Dirhams (approximately $2.5 million) and the issuance of 500,000 common shares of the Company in favor of Ouiselsat. The Seller retains a 2.5% royalty on sales of metal. The share issuances and payments were completed during one year following the acquisition. Historical production From 1926 to 1956, the Azegour mine yielded 1,331 t of (MoS2), 5,646 t of chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), 27 t of scheelite (CaWO4) and 1.55 t of U3O8*. In 1984, an historical resource* was established at 1M t @ 0.34 to 0.40 wt. % MoS2, 100,000 t @ 1.90 wt. % Cu and 2M t at 0.40 to 0.35 wt. % WO3*. (Lehmann, 1979; Japan International Agency Company, 1984). *The estimates presented above are treated as historic information and have not been verified or relied upon for economic evaluation by the Issuer or the writer. These historical mineral resources do not refer to any category of the NI-43-101 Instrument. The explanation lies in the inability by the author to verify the data. The Issuer has not done sufficient work yet to classify the historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. Therefore, the Issuer is in the opinion that the above quoted resources for the Azegour deposit cannot be relied upon. ABOUT MAYA Maya Gold & Silver Inc. is a publicly traded Canadian company focused on the operation, exploration and development of gold and silver deposits in Morocco. Maya is currently operating mining and milling operations at its Zgounder Mine, an 85%-15% split ownership between its subsidiary, ZMSM, and the ONHYM of the Kingdom of Morocco. Its portfolio also considers the Boumadine polymetallic deposit located in the Anti-Atlas Mountains of Eastern Morocco. The property is also a joint venture with ONHYM, whereby Maya retains an 85% ownership. The Maya portfolio also includes the Amizmiz and Azegour properties, both being 100% owned, with gold, tungsten, molybdenum and copper deposits covering over 100 square kilometres in a historical mining district Forward-looking statements This news release contains statements about future events or future performance and reflects managements current expectations and assumptions. These are "forward-looking" because we have used what we know and expect today to make a statement about the future. Forward-looking statements usually include words such as may, intend, plan, expect, anticipate, and believe or other similar words. We believe the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable. However, actual events and results could be substantially different because of the risks and uncertainties associated with our business or events that happen after the date of this news release. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. As a general policy, we do not update forward-looking statements except as required by securities laws and regulations. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in the Corporations filings with SEDAR. Photos accompanying this announcement are available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9dbe7b91-599d-4fec-a2fb-6e6967655761 http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/69ddaef4-8a9f-4d09-b3cb-ef1b24b1d59f http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/088439cd-6e35-4936-8fd5-0f17a5fd99dc http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9e65f40e-76ce-4d6c-a519-67e152510c1c http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/09663bde-0281-4151-bf56-cad7ac39d79b http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8d9b154e-885f-48cc-afec-442f19eea5fe CLAYTON Theres still no word on what will become of the two Wellston industrial parks a St. Louis County board sold to a group of politically-connected investors a group that included a man who features prominently in the federal indictment of former St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger. The St. Louis County Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority on Wednesday rejected the latest development proposal from Wellston Holdings LLC, the firm that included local businessman John Rallo. Along with partner Corey Christanell, Rallo donated about $50,000 to Stengers campaign account, and federal prosecutors say Stenger directed former St. Louis Economic Development Partnership CEO Sheila Sweeney to make sure Rallo and his group were able to purchase the Wellston properties. The Partnership provides staff to the LCRA. Messenger: Federal subpoenas focus the grow lights on 'trustees' of Steve Stenger Connections to sweet land deals and fledgling marijuana business appear to attract attention of the feds. After meeting for about 30 minutes in closed session, Partnership interim CEO Rodney Crim declined to discuss the contents of the proposal. But LCRA board chair Chris Becker gave the Post-Dispatch a written statement: Today the LCRA board voted to reject a second development proposal from Wellston Holdings because it does not conform to the covenants and requirements as set forth in the purchase agreement of Aug. 17, 2017. "We have people who are I would say knowledgeable about the negotiations who have told us that. That would be one of the goals of the company as they grow their business to get a contract with the post office," DeWine said. DeWine said he welcomed the news but said a lot depends on upcoming UAW negotiations and the union's reaction. "It would appear that with this company that there is potential for growth and maybe significant potential growth, which is what we want," he said. Lordstown Mayor Arno Hill said he's waiting for details, including how many people might be employed. "It's definitely better than having 6 million square foot building sitting empty," he said. But news of the pending sale was greeted gloomily by workers in Lordstown who were hoping that GM would reopen the factory that stopped producing the Chevrolet Cruze compact car in March. WASHINGTON Consumer borrowing in March grew at the slowest pace in nine months as Americans pulled back on credit card use. Borrowing increased by $10.3 billion in March, the Federal Reserve said Tuesday. That was the smallest monthly advance since an $8.8 billion rise last June. Borrowing had increased $15.5 billion in February. The slowdown reflected a $2.2 billion drop in the category that includes credit cards. That offset a $12.5 billion rise in borrowing in the category that covers auto loans and student loans. Consumer credit is closely watched for clues it can provide of the willingness of households to increase their borrowing to support consumer spending, which accounts for 70 percent of economic activity. Even with the March slowdown, consumer debt rose to a new record $4.05 trillion in March. The overall economy, as measured by the gross domestic product, grew at a surprisingly strong 3.2 percent annual rate in the January-March quarter. Daniel Neman Daniel Neman is a food writer for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow Daniel Neman Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Imagine youre a refugee. You have fled your home country because of civil war or danger or poverty. You end up in a new country, but you dont speak the language, you dont know the people, you have no immediate way of making a living. You know how to cook the food of your native country, but you dont think of that as a marketable skill. It is as natural to you as breathing. If you moved to the United States and you ended up in St. Louis, you may be in luck. An organization named Welcome Neighbor STL holds what it calls supper clubs, where anywhere from one to four new immigrants to the United States cook a meal from their homeland for a group of other Americans. As they serve the food, they can also share some information about their native culture. The idea is to build bridges with people who are different from yourself through food. Especially in todays society when there is so much division between people, we focus on coming together and finding our similarities through food, says Welcome Neighbor STL founder Jessica Bueler. From December 19th through December 26th we will be granting free access as a gift to our readers presented by McBride Homes Joe Holleman Joe Holleman is a reporter for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow Joe Holleman Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today Most bartenders will tell you, with little or no urging, they have a screenplay in their head. But if you drink at the Double Windsor in Brooklyn, N.Y., your bartender has one in the Cannes Film Festival. STL native Michael J. White is the co-writer of "Cancion Sin Nombre (Song Without a Name)," a Peruvian docudrama that will be shown May 16 at the legendary movie showcase. White, 42, was born and reared in Kirkwood and attended Priory High School, leaving after his sophomore year when his parents, Joe and Debby White, moved to Iowa. "But St. Louis is my hometown and my folks have been back, in Chesterfield, for 20 years," said White, 42. The screenplay was sparked when White and Melina Leon, the film's director and co-writer, were classmates in the early 2000s in the graduate fine arts program at Columbia University. Leon's father was a reporter for a Peruvian newspaper in the 1980s and covered the story of doctors who delivered babies from indigent women and then sold them on the black market. WEBSTER GROVES The chief executive of a child welfare agency and alternative school here was arrested Tuesday and charged with endangering the welfare of a child and assault. Vincent Damian Hillyer, of Hillington Court in Eureka, was charged Tuesday with six felony counts of endangering the welfare of a child in the first degree, a misdemeanor count of attempting to endanger the welfare of a child and a misdemeanor count of assault in the fourth degree, Webster Groves police said. Hillyer is CEO of Great Circle Academy, an alternative school that offers boarding in Webster Groves. The organization has other facilities across Missouri. He was charged in connection with incidents occurring over the past year, beginning in March 2018, according to online court records. More details about the allegations against Hillyer were not available Tuesday. Webster Groves police executed a search warrant at the school at 330 North Gore Avenue on Tuesday as part of an investigation being done with the Missouri Department of Social Services Children's Division. Hillyer was charged as a result of the search, police said. ASKER, NORWAY (8 May 2019) - The Annual General Meeting of TGS was held on 8 May 2019. All resolutions proposed were approved by the shareholders. The minutes from the Annual General Meeting are attached to this announcement: Minutes from Annual General Meeting 2019- Norwegian Minutes from Annual General Meeting 2019- English Company summary TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company (TGS) provides multi-client geoscience data to oil and gas Exploration and Production companies worldwide. In addition to extensive global geophysical and geological data libraries that include multi-client seismic data, magnetic and gravity data, digital well logs, production data and directional surveys, TGS also offers advanced processing and imaging services, interpretation products, and data integration solutions. For more information visit TGS online at www.tgs.com . Forward-looking statements and contact information All statements in this press release other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, which are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove accurate. These factors include TGS' reliance on a cyclical industry and principle customers, TGS' ability to continue to expand markets for licensing of data, and TGS' ability to acquire and process data products at costs commensurate with profitability. Actual results may differ materially from those expected or projected in the forward-looking statements. TGS undertakes no responsibility or obligation to update or alter forward-looking statements for any reason. TGS-NOPEC Geophysical Company ASA is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSLO:TGS). TGS sponsored American Depositary Shares trade on the U.S. over-the-counter market under the symbol "TGSGY. For additional information about this press release please contact: Sven Brre Larsen Chief Financial Officer Tel: +47 90 94 36 73 Email: investor@tgs.com This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act Attachments Without a restraining order, there is a substantial probability that substantial unlawful expenditures of city tax revenues would occur imminently, Moriarty wrote. Until Tuesday, Gardner's office had refused to release the contracts under the Missouri Sunshine Law, citing Mullen's gag order. The office's chief trial assistant, Rachel Smith, asked Mullen via email last week if the contracts were covered by the gag order and if they could be shared with Moriarty and the public. Mullen responded by saying "I have no problem with contracts being handed out. I would not view that as contrary to the gag order." The legal skirmishes surrounding the grand jury probe have played out for months in court filings and hearings. A judge and special prosecutor have accused Gardners office of impeding the investigation. Gardners lawyers have fired back with an aggressive legal strategy resembling that of Greitens team last year. Core funding for the public defenders office will probably remain constant, at about $50 million for the fiscal year that starts July 1. That means the office will still be underfunded by about $30 million, the office has said. The inadequate funding ultimately leads to more juveniles and adults being incarcerated rather than returning to their communities, Barrett has said. He argues this increases costs to the state in the long run. Each unit will pay for itself, Barrett said of the juvenile units. Each unit will only have to divert 26 children away from state prison in order to generate enough savings to pay for one of these units. The units will serve hundreds of children annually around the state. The public defenders office is also poised to receive an extra $500,000 to help address its case backlog. The $500,000 is to hire private attorneys to help reduce the current wait-list of individuals charged with an offense who dont yet have counsel (because of excessive caseloads), Barrett said. This is causing people to sit in jail longer, driving up costs for the counties and the state. A St. Francois County jury early Wednesday found the stepson of a Missouri Ku Klux Klan leader killed in 2017 guilty of involuntary manslaughter, abandonment of a corpse and other charges, prosecutors said. After a two-day trial, jurors in St. Francois County Circuit Court deliberated late into the night, returning at 1 a.m. with their verdict against Paul Jinkerson in the Feb. 9, 2017, fatal shooting of Frank Ancona Jr. They also found Jinkerson guilty of armed criminal action and tampering with physical evidence, prosecutors said. Jurors picked the lesser offense of involuntary manslaughter over the first-degree murder charge Jinkerson had been facing, his lawyer, Eric Barnhart said. Jinkerson's mother, Malissa Ancona, claimed last month in a guilty plea to charges of second-degree murder, tampering with evidence and abandonment of a corpse that she fired both shots that killed Ancona. She also admitted cleaning up the bloody crime scene and dumping Ancona's body near Belgrade, Mo., and said her son helped with that. She was almost immediately sentenced to life in prison. He called for a much more inclusive process to govern the organizations next effort. Still, the gap between the sides was clear on Tuesday. Wrighton said the effort needs to better educate the public on the shortcomings of the region, the fragmentation of governments and the need for reform. I think we need more dialogue about what is actually being proposed. I think there are misunderstandings, Wrighton said. Is this a defeat? By no means. We have more work ahead. Municipal officials, on the other hand, called for a reevaluation of the regions ailments they argued that fragmentation isnt one of them a rethinking of solutions to those problems, and a refocus on a public process people can support. If theres one benefit, its that theyve made people talk, said Pat Kelly, executive director of the Municipal League of Metro St. Louis, of Better Together. Weve never said everything is flowers and roses in St. Louis city and county. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who has done an about-face in supporting a president he called a race-baiting xenophobic bigot during the last presidential campaign, told reporters: When it comes to Trump, people need to dial it back a little bit. In a 35-minute interview in the Russell Senate Office Building, Blunt said he determined long ago to do that to not offer advice on dialing back on the tweets or the crude language in general, on how Trump should act as president. This kind of distance has sometimes resulted in critics saying Republican senators and House members are cowed by a president who pushes or breaks the limits of the Constitution or political convention. Blunt has occasionally opposed Trump, but rarely publicly. He warned, for instance, before Trumps declaration of an emergency at the Mexican border that it would be a counterproductive move that would land the dispute in court, making for a longer resolution of an immigration crisis. But generally, Blunt said, he decided long ago that Trump would just be Trump. GM stands with the Dreamers we employ and the hundreds of thousands of Dreamers employed by multiple companies across the U.S., says the companys report, which appeared to be published either this year or last. The diversity report also notes that GM has a strong antidiscrimination policy that protects LGBTQ employees. In Missouri, sexual orientation and gender identity are not protected statuses, meaning it is legal to discriminate against LGBT people. Lawmakers are considering changing this, but an effort to do so could fizzle as the Legislature approaches its deadline May 17. Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, has proposed a package of state subsidies and incentives in hope of drawing new money to the Wentzville plant, which already employs about 3,500 workers. In his dealings with the company, at least publicly, Parson has not mentioned the possibility of state accommodations for undocumented workers or LGBT people. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. "We look forward to sharing with the senator the tools and information the industry already provides that keeps the control of in-game spending in parents hands. Parents already have the ability to limit or prohibit in-game purchases with easy to use parental controls. Hawleys proposal would give the Federal Trade Commission the power to enforce the law under unfair trade practices. It would also give state attorneys general the ability to file lawsuits in their states. The legislation opens a new front in Hawleys broadsides against social media and online gaming, and comes less than a week after he delivered a speech in which he declared that Silicon Valley has delivered few benefits for the American culture and economy, while monetizing online addiction. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources monitors ozone across the state during the ozone season, which begins March 1 and ends October 31. Sunlight and warm temperatures expedite the process, so ozone usually is a greater problem during the late spring, summer and early fall. But air quality in the St. Louis region improved from an average of 30.3 days of poor air quality a year in the baseline time period of 2009-2011 to an average of 14.0 days per year in 2016-2018, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Sen. Andrew Koenig, R-Manchester, said some people cannot afford to comply with the tests or buy newer cars that meet the standards. Its a tax on poor people, Koenig said. If youve got a brand new car, youre going to pass an emissions test. Others in the Senate raised questions about ending the program, saying it could result in a spike in pollution levels. I think were moving, from my perspective, in the wrong direction here, said Sen. Jill Schupp, D-Creve Coeur. Environmental groups also raised alarms. House Speaker Elijah Haahr, R-Springfield, did not refer MONA to the House General Laws Committee until April 17, with a month left before the end of session. Since all bills must be referred to committee, referring them late in session is a common tactic for legislative leaders who don't want to see a bill become law. Some bills are referred on the last day, or soon before, meaning they rarely receive a hearing. Other bills referred late are given what are known as "courtesy hearings." "I do think that the conversation on MONA is a good one for the Legislature to have," Haahr said last week. "I think that's what the committee process is for, to work through the issue and to figure out if there's a path forward for it." Razer told the Post-Dispatch that if the chambers can push through a proposal to lure investment from GM within the last two weeks, lawmakers could also approve MONA. The leadership has made it a priority, Razer said, referring to the GM bill. Were going to get it done. We can do the same for MONA. CLAYTON St. Louis County Executive Sam Page urged the owners of the former Northwest Plaza in St. Ann where his predecessor led the county into a long-term lease for office space and misled the County Council about how much it would cost to renegotiate or risk having the council void the deal. Robert and P. David Glarner, owners of the site now known as The Crossings at Northwest, responded in a letter that they were ready to discuss the agreement. The lease has been in the councils crosshairs for over a year. The Glarners had been former County Executive Steve Stengers friends and biggest campaign supporters, donating an unprecedented $365,000. And they got a massive commitment from taxpayers worth at least $69 million and as much as $77 million, with no ability for the county to back out, according to the newspapers analysis. Stengers administration initially touted the deal as saving taxpayers $10 million. A Post-Dispatch investigation in February 2018 revealed that the project would not save money and had the potential to cost millions more. HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Erdene Resource Development Corp. (TSX:ERD; MSE:ERDN) ("Erdene" or the "Company") is pleased to announce financial and operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and to provide an update on progress and plans for its Khundii Gold Project. This release should be read in conjunction with the Companys Q1-2019 Financial Statements, MD&A and Annual Information Form, available on the Companys website or on SEDAR. Quotes from the Company: Erdene continues to make solid progress developing the high-grade, open-pit Khundii Gold Project, said Peter Akerley, Erdenes President and CEO. During the first quarter we awarded the Khundii Gold Project Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) contract to Tetra Tech, Inc. and engaged Sustainability East Asia LLC to lead the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment. Mining license applications are well underway, and we recently received government approval of registration of the Bayan Khundii deposit, the major milestone in the license application process. In April, the Company launched an 1,800 metre drilling program focused on increasing confidence in the Khundii Gold Project resource, confirming ultra-high gold grades and expanding the Bayan Khundii deposit to support the PFS, continued Mr. Akerley. Drill samples have been sent to the laboratory for analysis and we expect to share results by mid-May. Q1-2019 Highlights and Subsequent Events: Operational Highlights Commenced a NI 43-101 Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) for Khundii Gold Project: Tetra Tech, Inc., a global engineering firm, is managing the study and leading its process and engineering workstreams. Blue Coast Research is performing metallurgical testing. Sustainability East Asia LLC is conducting the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment in compliance with applicable international and Mongolian standards. Received Mineral Resources Professional Council approval for Bayan Khundii resource registration: Bayan Khundii mining license expected to be received by end of June. Altan Nar mining license application is underway. Completed an 1,800 metre drill program in April 2019 at Bayan Khundii to support the PFS: Focused on extending the open-pit perimeter, increasing the continuity of the highest-grade zones and expanding the resource. Samples are at the laboratory for analysis and results are expected to be announced in mid-May. Financial and Corporate Update Raised C$2.53 million in February 2019 to launch the Khundii Gold Project PFS, mining license applications, the repurchase of the Sandstorm NSR royalty and general working capital: Current working capital of $1.1 million is expected to fund operations through early Q3-2019. Repurchased 50% of the Khundii NSR Royalty from Sandstorm Gold on April 12, 2019: Fair value of the NSR royalty implied by the Khundii Gold Project PEA is well in excess of the C$1.2 million repurchase price. Recognized a net loss of $516,687 for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to a loss of $701,663 for the comparative period in 2018. Incurred exploration expenditures, including capitalized costs, of $941,083 compared to $717,906 in 2018, due to increased activity associated with the finalization of the Khundii Gold Project PEA. Corporate and administrative expenses, excluding non-cash share-based compensation and depreciation were $296,330 in the quarter versus $378,955 in the comparative period due to reduced marketing and lower professional fees. Review of Khundii Gold Project Development Erdenes deposits are located in the Edren Terrane, within the Central Asian Orogenic Belt, host to some of the worlds largest gold and copper-gold deposits. The Company has been the leader in exploration in southwest Mongolia over the past decade and is responsible for the discovery of the Khundii Gold District comprised of multiple high-grade gold and gold/base metal prospects, two of which are being considered for development: the 100%-owned Bayan Khundii and Altan Nar projects. Together, these deposits comprise the Khundii Gold Project (the Project). The Company delivered the Projects maiden mineral resource estimate in Q3 2018 with a Measured and Indicated (M&I) resource of 751,000 ounces (oz) gold at an average grade of 2.3 g/t gold and an Inferred resource of 291,000 oz gold at an average grade of 1.8 g/t gold (cut-off grade of 0.7 g/t gold). This was followed by a National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) Preliminary Economic Assessment in December 2018 which returned an after-tax Net Present Value at a 5% discount rate (NPV5%) and a US$1,200/oz gold price of US$99 million and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 56%. The initial development has a life of mine head grade of 3.42 g/t gold with an average annual gold production of 51,200 oz over an eight- year mine life. Based on the potential for additional discovery and expansion on the current license areas the planned development is considered as a foundation for growth. Erdene initiated a NI 43-101 Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) for the Khundii Gold Project in March 2019. Led by Tetra-Tech, Inc., with support from Sustainability East Asia LLC for Environmental and Social Impact studies, and Blue Coast Laboratories, for Metallurgical analysis, the PFS is scheduled to be announced in Q3-2019. About Erdene Erdene Resource Development Corp. is a Canada-based resource company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of precious and base metals in underexplored and highly prospective Mongolia. The Company has interests in four exploration licenses and a mining license in Southwest Mongolia, where exploration success has led to the discovery and definition of the Khundii Gold District. Erdene Resource Development Corp. is listed on the Toronto and Mongolia stock exchanges. Further information is available at www.erdene.com. Important information may be disseminated exclusively via the website; investors should consult the site to access this information. Forward-Looking Statements Certain information regarding Erdene contained herein may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements may include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance or other statements that are not statements of fact. Although Erdene believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Erdene cautions that actual performance will be affected by a number of factors, most of which are beyond its control, and that future events and results may vary substantially from what Erdene currently foresees. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration results, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The information contained herein is stated as of the current date and is subject to change after that date. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. NO REGULATORY AUTHORITY HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE CONTENTS OF THIS RELEASE Trakas tabled the legislation then and said he planned to seek consensus on the issue. What resulted was a compromise among council members, the police department and the union, said Councilman Tim Fitch, R-3rd District, the countys former police chief. The bill says the St. Louis County police would get no less than the $107 million they currently get from non-Prop P revenue. That addresses the concern that the county would supplant existing funding, Fitch said. And it clarifies that only four county departments the police department, jail, prosecuting attorneys office and county counselors office can receive Prop P money. Fitch has separately introduced a bill weeks ago that would put Prop P on the ballot again to ask voters to clarify how they intended to use the revenue, but he has held the bill back while working on the compromise with Trakas. SPECIAL ELECTION The council also asked the county counselors office to write legislation authorizing a special election to fill the 2nd District seat that had been occupied by Sam Page. The council voted 5-1 last week to appoint Page to the county executives office after the resignation of Steve Stenger. Ramadan began Sunday and lasts through June 4. The religious celebration of Eid-Al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Muslims in the St. Louis area will fast an average of about 15 hours each day during the month. The first officially iftar dinner in the U.S. was in 1805, when Thomas Jefferson hosted a Tunisian envoy celebrating Ramadan for a dinner at the White House. Tuesdays event followed in that tradition, said Faizan Syed, executive director of of the Missouri chapter of the council. Its an opportunity for people of all faiths and backgrounds to come together, Syed said. Mayor Lyda Krewson, Board of Alderman President Lewis Reed and Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner also attended the dinner. They and other guests who spoke publicly often greeted the crowd with the Arabic phrase, Ramadan Mubarak, which translates roughly to blessed Ramadan. Collins-Muhammad greeted attendees with the Arabic phrase used by Muslims as a salutation, assalamualaikum, meaning peace be upon you. He said Ramadan was a time for Muslims to not only reflect on their own lives, but to take measure of the conditions of their communities and seek to better them. Cohen told Arnold he offered to send a letter on Gaetz's behalf to protect his law license. "He apologized, you know, right afterwards," Cohen said. "Now, did he apologize because he was getting the crap kicked out of him by the press and you know, by people, you know, or did he do it because he actually has a heart?" Arnold asserted, "Trump had him do it," to which Cohen said, "Of course he did." 'Never thought' he'd get a three-year sentence The Wall Street Journal and Reuters previously reported on aspects of the tape. The Journal noted in its initial report on the conversation that Cohen could be heard telling Arnold that he did not actually do some of the crimes included in his guilty plea. His attorney Lanny Davis told CNN at the time that nothing Cohen told Arnold "contradicts Mr. Cohen's previous defense attorney, Guy Petrillo, in his sentencing memorandum to" a federal judge last December. Cohen indicated in the recording that he took the plea deal in part to protect his wife. 2. Colorado school shooting A week after two people were shot to death at a North Carolina college, the nation is facing the horror of school shootings once again. One student was killed and eight others injured after two suspects entered two classrooms at the STEM School Highlands Ranch in suburban Denver and opened fire. The two suspects, both believed to be students, were taken into custody after a struggle with police. Some of the students at the school reportedly tried to tackle one of the shooters. The school is just seven miles away from Columbine High School , where two shooters killed 13 people in 1999. 3. Trump's taxes More than $1 billion over 10 years. That's how much money Donald Trump's businesses lost from 1985 to 1994, according to The New York Times. The newspaper learned the details about a decade's worth of Trump's tax records, which indicate that he lost more money than nearly any other individual US taxpayer during that time period. Trump also lost so much money that he didn't have to pay income taxes for eight of those 10 years. An attorney for the President said the Times' story was "demonstrably false" but didn't cite any specific errors. Trump has refused to release his tax returns to the public despite pressure from Congress. VANCOUVER, British Colombia, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canada Carbon (the Company) (CCB:TSX-V) (BRUZF:OTC) (U7N1:FF) announces that on May 7th, 2019, Michelle Lalonde at The Gazette published an article entitled "Grenville-sur-la-Rouge Fundraising to Fight Lawsuits from Vancouver Mining Company." Not having the opportunity to present Canada Carbon's perspective prior to publication, we would like to respond to some of the statements made there. First, this article reports that Mayor Arnold "will fight it till the end (...) because the health of our citizens is our responsibility". There is no evidence that the Canada Carbon Project poses any danger to residents or to water resources. On the contrary, all the hydrogeological studies that have been carried out to date show that the activities will have no impact on water resources. The mineral deposit is incapable of generating acid mine drainage, and cannot leach toxins or heavy metals. The debate is not about health but rather about the municipality's right to block a project that, at the time of its filing, was in compliance with the applicable zoning by-law. Second, the article notes that the project "will bring noise, dust, and additional traffic". According to studies to date, residents are not expected to be affected by the activities since acoustic walls will be put in place and the operating hours of many of the activities will be limited. In any case, Canada Carbon is and has always been willing to discuss with municipal officials mitigation measures that will reduce the impacts of its project. Third, the article quotes Mr. Ugo Lapointe of Mining Watch Canada as saying that the action for damages brought by Canada Carbon is a "SLAPP suit". It is worth recalling that Madam Justice Turcotte rendered a judgment on this issue on November 9th, 2018 and concluded that Canada Carbon's action in damages did not have any of the characteristics of a SLAPP action. This judgment has been appealed by the municipality and the Court of Appeal will consider the issue on May 17th, 2019. CANADA CARBON INC. R. Bruce Duncan CEO and Director Contact Information E-mail inquiries: info@canadacarbon.com P: (604) 685-6375 F: (604) 909-1163 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. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect managements current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect managements current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com ). The American steel industry directly and indirectly supports more than 2 million American jobs. Illinois is home to a number of steel-making companies, as well as firms that supply the steel industry and companies that benefit from the respending of income earned by the industry and its suppliers. Accounting for all these economic interests, the economic engine of iron and steel is responsible for nearly 126,000 jobs in Illinois, paying more than $9 billion in wages and salaries annually, while generating more than $32 billion in industry output and nearly $4 billion in federal, state and local taxes. To break it down further, the steel industry directly employs more than 25,000 people making an average of $88,871 per year, while generating nearly $12 billion to the Illinois economy. The steel industry has developed innovative materials and manufacturing technologies that have led to the introduction of new advances in high-strength steel grades for cars and trucks, sustainable building construction, and energy transmission and development, among others. Each year, more steel is recycled than paper, plastic, aluminum and glass combined. And the steel industry is critical to our national and economic security. Every military platform and weapon system is dependent on American-produced steel. The arrival of Jews, Catholics and other non-Protestants slowed to a trickle. The quotas stayed in place even when desperate refugees from Adolf Hitlers Europe sought a safe haven in the United States. The discriminatory restrictions survived until the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965. The thrust of the St. Louis Caucus, and early activities of the American Legion as a whole, was not as overtly racialist or ethnocentric as the most extreme forms of 1920s nativism. However, a key legacy of the St. Louis Caucus is the notion that being a true American meant something more than being a legal citizen, or even thinking of oneself as patriotic. This view of Americanism associated martiality with patriotism and dissent with subversion. A century after the St. Louis Caucus, we live in a moment again shaped by the politics of Americanism. Some things have changed; many others have stayed eerily similar. Now, the debate about immigration concerns arrivals from places outside Europe. These countries, and by extension the people who hail from them, are derided in excremental terms by the president. Now, it is Muslims, not Catholics, whose loyalty is questioned. Tragically, anti-Semitism and racism endure. Gov. Mike Parson is trying a novel approach to evade compliance with Missouris Sunshine Law, concocting a First Amendment exception that allows his office to redact information about the people trying to influence him or seek his help. State Auditor Nicole Galloway, whose job includes monitoring Sunshine Law compliance, is understandably perturbed. The general public should be as well. The controversy arose over numerous attempts by journalists to review Parsons records and determine whether special interests are seeking favor or trying to influence him. The assertion of a constitutional right to redact information under the First Amendment, if upheld, could render the entire Sunshine Law moot. The publics ability to hold public officeholders accountable would be shattered. On Tuesday, Galloway asked Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt for an opinion on whether information may lawfully be redacted related to individuals conducting business with, lobbying or trying to influence government officials. Galloway is a Democrat; Parson and Schmitt are Republicans. Amid a critical shortage of housing for the St. Louis regions extremely low-income residents, a plan is afoot in Wellston to demolish 201 public housing units and send their poor residents packing. A fifth of Wellstons population risks becoming displaced. Is demolition really the best solution? No one disputes that conditions in many of these housing units are deplorable. Public housing across the country is notorious for construction standards designed to sacrifice quality for low cost. Shoddy workmanship and cheap materials result in housing that degrades quickly. Conditions among the 201 Wellston units have deteriorated to the point that housing officials would rather demolish them altogether than bother with the expense of renovating them. Federal law requires authorities to provide displaced residents with vouchers and assistance in locating new housing, but its never that simple. Jane Siebels letter People of privilege should help solve racial injustice (May 1) was inspiring. In a recent PBS documentary, historian Henry Louis Gates Jr. explained how events during the half century after the Civil War caused much of the racism that still infects our society. Briefly, his argument is that the North won the war, but the South won the narrative. I see similarities in our society today. From 1865 to 1877, amendments to the U.S. Constitution were passed giving freed slaves citizenship. Former slaves set about reuniting their families, organizing social and church groups, and even running for office. 0 reckless driving citations 0 drug arrests Distracted Driving Awareness Month may be over, but the Collinsville Police Dept. will continue stopping drivers for this deadly behavior, Mackin said. The Distracted Driving enforcement campaign is supported through federal funds administered by the Illinois Dept. of Transportation. The Collinsville Police Dept. will also be stepping up traffic enforcement from May 10-28, in an effort to reduce traffic accidents and injuries during the start of the Memorial Day holiday season. In conjunction with the Illinois Dept. of Transportation, the Collinsville Police Department will enforce DUI, seat belt and cell phone usage violations with a zero tolerance approach. For more information, call 618-465-3298, ext. 100, or visit seniorservicesplus.org. Red Cross blood drives During Trauma Awareness Month this May, you can help ensure hospitals are prepared the moment an injured patient arrives by reminding the public blood donations are needed year-round. The American Red Cross has these upcoming blood drives in Madison County: May 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., First National Bank, 304 Bargraves Blvd., in Troy. May 13, from 3 to 7 p.m., Korte Recreation Center, 1 Nagel Dr., in Highland. May 16, from 2 to 6 p.m., Culver's, 100 United Dr., in Collinsville. To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). L&C Commencement The 2019 Lewis and Clark Community College Commencement will take place at 7 p.m. May 15, in the Ann Whitney Olin Theatre, Hatheway Cultural Center, on the L&C campus, 5800 Godfrey Road, in Godfrey. Russian development of fifth-generation fighter aircraft has not gone well. Russia is in third place behind the United States and China. Both of these nations already have fifth generation aircraft in service. Russia recently received its first production model Su-57 aircraft and is now seeking export customers. The Su-57 is a stealthy, single-seat, twin-engine multirole fifth-generation fighter aircraft developed for air superiority and attack operations. This is the first Russian aircraft in military service to use stealth technology. The Su-57 also has supercruise (going supersonic without the afterburner) capability and advanced avionics capable of dealing with older warplane electronics as well as ground and naval air defense systems. The Russians developed the Su-57 to succeed its Cold War era MiG-29 and Su-27/30 fighters. But the Su-57 is so expensive and the Russian Air Force budget so small that Russia cannot afford many of these stealth fighters. Moreover, it is essential to obtain export sales to make mass production possible at all. Before the production model entered service, 14 prototypes were built. Four were used for static and integration testing rather than flight with a further ten for flight testing. There were problems perfecting the high-performance engines so the first two flight prototypes substituted less capable variant of the AL-31 engine used by the Su-27 aircraft. The other eight flyable prototypes used a more powerful AL-41F1S engine, which was also used in the most modern Su-27 variant, the Su-35. Flight testing made it clear that even the AL-41F1 was not powerful enough for the Su-57. This meant that the Izdeliye 30 variant of the Al-F41, originally designed for the Su-57, had to be perfected before the Su-57 could enter production as an export aircraft. The Izdeliye 30 possessed increased thrust and fuel efficiency as well as 3D thrust vectoring nozzles. At the end of 2017, the tenth flight prototype was equipped with Izdeliye 30 engines and demonstrated its superior performance, including supercruise without fuel-guzzling afterburners. However, the Izdeliye 30 was still not reliable enough for sustained use, so mass production Su-57 engine with the intended engine wont start until 2019 or later. Until then production models of the Su-57 will be shipped with an Al-F41 variant that enables the aircraft to get the most out of its stealth and high-performance electronics but without the promised supercruise and thrust vectoring maneuverability features. Development of the Su-57 got as far as it has because India agreed in 2010 to jointly develop and then purchase production models. The original deal was based on the initial Su-57 design and each country investing $6 billion over 8-10 years to achieve a production model. India planned on purchasing 214 slightly modified (for Indian use) Su-57s. Development got off to a bad start as it encountered unexpected technical complications that, by 2012, caused India to reduce its planned purchase to 144 fighters. Development problems persisted and in early 2018 India pulled out of the Su-57 project. India noted the Su-57 was way behind in completing development of the stealth technology as well as the advanced electronics. Russia disagreed but without Indian development money and initial aircraft purchases proceeding as planned the Su-57 faced cancellation. Instead, Russia came up with a plan to continue development but with significantly reduced performance goals. To demonstrate the feasibility of this approach in February 2018 four Su-57 prototypes were sent to Syria to demonstrate the existing capabilities of the aircraft as it performed various types of missions during a major air support operation for ground forces clearing rebels from a Damascus suburb. This lasted until April and the Su-57s successfully completed an operational testing program that included combat trials. The capabilities of multiple Su-57 weapon systems were tested during ten flights. The most significant test was when a Su-57 fired a Kh-59MK2 cruise missile against an Islamic terrorist target. Russia concluded that, although the intent and purpose of the Su-57 program had changed since development began, the aircraft represented a significant advance in Russian military aircraft performance and was a worthy competitor to American and Chinese stealth designs. Russia now justifies the expensive Su-57 because it could serve up to 35 years and be used in smaller quantities as a special mission aircraft. That means the Su-57 would only be used for specific missions that require the unique capabilities of the aircraft. To demonstrate its confidence in this new plan the Russian Air Force recently placed an order for 15 aircraft. In addition, Russia is actively seeking export customers for the Su-57. Russia needs these export sales to keep Su-57 development and production going. The Su-57 has to pay its own way because most of the aircraft budget is needed to purchase Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft to replace the Cold War era Su-27 and MiG-29 aircraft that are too old and worn out to be useful any longer. Russia has had to cut defense spending more than 25 percent since 2014 because of low oil prices, sanctions and an economic recession. This has meant less money for aircraft development and production. Export orders, in general, are essential to keep the Russian aviation industry going. The Russian Air Force received around 200 new and upgraded aircraft in 2017 and 100 more aircraft in 2018 and is having a difficult time avoiding further reductions during and after 2019. Russia is apparently planning to offer China an export model of the Su-57 (Su-57E) which will be presented as a logical next step to the 24 Su-35 aircraft China recently received and is apparently pleased with. The Su-57E is expected to be unveiled at the Dubai Air Show in November 2019. Within the next two years, China will make a decision to either procure additional Su-35s, build the Su-35 in China, or buy the Su-57E. China is certainly interested in the Su-57 as its first fifth-generation stealth fighter, the J-20A, experienced development issues and reportedly has encountered numerous technical problems that have delayed entry into service. A key technical challenge is that the J-20A lacks a locally developed high-performance engine and, like the Su-57, continues to rely on older Russian engine models that are almost powerful enough but also reliable enough for sustained service. China developed its military jet engine industry with Russian help and is encountering some of the same performance and reliability problems the Russians still encounter. By continuing to buy Russian high-performance engines China can monitor Russian progress in overcoming development and production problems that have been a major problem for stealth and high-performance military aircraft in general. Meanwhile, Russia will produce the Su-57 aircraft in limited quantities as a fifth-generation multirole stealth fighter aircraft capable of attacking well defended ground targets as well as high-performance combat aircraft. Compared to its predecessors, the Su-57 combines the use of stealth composite materials and innovative technologies while leveraging the fighters aerodynamic configuration to provide a low level of radar and infrared signature. The production of the reduced (from original goals) capability Su-57 still represents a significant achievement as it does provide Russia with a next generation of combat aircraft that surpasses the late Cold War era MiG-29 and Su-27 designs. While not as capable as the latest Western models, the Russian warplanes proved capable enough to be a real threat, especially when flown by experienced pilots. Where Russia still lags badly is in developing stealth fighters that are much easier to fly, like the F-35. This American stealth aircraft is revolutionary because its integrated sensors and highly adaptive flight control software create striking new capabilities. While Russia is not catching up, it is still a competitor Ryan Schinault The revival of Boko Haram violence in the northeast has pushed the death toll (since 2011) of this Islamic terror group to over 25,000. Boko Haram has also shut down most of the schools in areas where they operate and caused most of the Christians in the northeast to flee the Moslem north for the Christian south. While Boko Haram violence receives more media coverage, most of the violent deaths in 2019 have been the result of growing violence between herders (mainly Moslem Fulani) and farmers (both Christian and Moslem). Most of this violence is taking place in the northeast (Kaduna state), northwest (Zamfara State) and several states in central Nigeria. Boko Haram violence is concentrated in the northeastern Borno state, where Boko Haram was founded in 2002 and grew to become a major Islamic terrorist threat by 2009. The herder versus farmer has been present for generations but has now reached crisis levels While Boko Haram appears to be undergoing a revival in the north, many Boko Haram leaders are unhappy over the cost and what it means for the future. Boko Haram has been inflicting a lot of casualties on the security forces and civilians (especially Christians) in the last year, but has itself suffered heavy losses. Not just members killed in combat but the many lost through disease and desertion. Recruiting new members has been difficult and Boko Haram has resorted to kidnapping boys (young teenagers) and coercing them (often successfully) to join. A growing number of Boko Haram commanders were demanding some fundamental changes to avoid Boko Haram falling apart and fading away. This apparently led to a change of leadership in the ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) branch of Boko Haram, with leader Khalid al Barnawi suddenly no longer in charge and his whereabouts or fate uncertain. He apparently abdicated in late February or early March and was arrested by police in early April. The new leadership is apparently demanding even more violence and a go for broke approach to deciding the fate of the larger Boko Haram faction. Barnawi was thought to be too timid and that was believed responsible for heavy losses suffered recently. The smaller faction, about half the size of the ISIL one, is accused of gradually turning into bandits with religious pretensions. That is a common fate for many militant organizations. So far the increased Boko Haram violence is continuing even as more Boko Haram members surrender and complain of hunger, poor living conditions, heavy combat losses and reliance on raiding and looting undefended (most of the time) villages for supplies. Cattle Versus Crops In the northwest, especially Zamfara State, the root cause of the violence was never religion but herders and farmers fighting over land (for grazing or crops) and water (for cattle or crops). Both herders and farmers carry out revenge attacks but the Fulani are generally the aggressors. Zamfara state is experiencing the same sort of tribal violence as central Nigeria except in Zamfara nearly everyone involved is Moslem. This generally involves fighting between Fulani herders and Hausa farmers. To make matters worse the area is notorious for groups of bandits that steal cattle as well as raid farming villages just for the money. The bandits are mainly Fulani but a growing number of Hausa are joining in. The security forces are supposed to seize illegal arms, especially the cheap AK-47s that became common back in the 1990s. The reality is that only the farmers are hurt by this because local defense militias must either bribe local police to keep their AK-47s or be at constant risk of having them seized. Herders are more mobile and better at hiding their weapons. Villagers are demanding that the government allow defense groups to have firearms. Even without that, the Fulani violence has caused over 4,000 deaths in the last three years. Most of the attacks are raids for the purpose of looting and leaving the area. The Fulani raiders often run into Hausa self-defense militias and the resulting battles leave many on both sides dead or wounded. The Fulani raids are usually after cattle and other loot. Moslem leaders want attention paid to the growing tribal feuds between Moslem tribes, especially the battles between Fulani and Hausa in Zamfara. In response, the federal government has ordered the national police to send in additional paramilitary personnel to deal (or try to deal) with that situation. The police have not had much impact and usually, leave after conducting some operations that are avoided by the local bandits. Soldiers are now being sent in as well but the violence continues to spread. The Oil Terror Oil production is stalled and growing violence in the oil producing areas is the main reason. At the end of 2018 oil production was officially cut to 1.7 million BPD (barrels per day) to comply with OPEC cuts that are needed to increase the oil price. That did not work because Nigeria needed the money and produced as much oil as it could (about 1.9 million BPD). That goal is now threatened by the growing violence and damage done by the oil theft gangs. OPEC production level limits are requests, not demands because OPEC has no enforcement mechanism. If too many OPEC members cheat the oil price will not increase and all producers will suffer. Until the 2013 crash in oil prices (triggered by the North American fracking boom), major OPEC members could be expected to make additional production cuts to cover smaller OPEC producers could, or would not adhere to their production quotas. That is no longer automatic. The Saudis are hurting from low prices and need all the oil income they can get. But the Saudis will still cut production if it is likely to get the oil price to increase. The world price was $45 a barrel in February but is currently $60. OPEC unofficially welcomes Nigeria being unable to ship as most oil as Nigeria wants. Daily production in 2018 was 2.09 million BPD, up from 2.03 million BPD in 2017. Given the investments in oil production (mainly by foreign companies) Nigeria should be producing 4 million BPD but continuing problems with oil theft gangs and repair/maintenance backlogs (especially of the pipelines) in the Niger River Delta (where all the oil is) and decades of government inability to deal with these problems are causing a growing number of foreign oil companies to sell their Nigerian assets and go elsewhere. In effect, it is more profitable to do business in other countries. For example, it currently costs $23 per barrel to produce oil in Nigeria but without all the violence and corruption that could be $15 a barrel or less. The new oil production firms will demand better terms from Nigeria meaning less oil income for the government. Efforts to explore for oil in the Moslem north is also crippled by the bad reputation Nigeria has when it comes to foreign oil companies. May 5, 2019: In the south (the Niger River Delta), a foreign oil company shut down a major pipeline (150,000 BPD) because of damage from oil thieves and growing public protests over that and the inability of the oil company to clean up the damage quickly enough. May 3, 2019: In the northeast (Borno state), Boko Haram raided the town of Magumeri (50 kilometers from the state capital). The surprise afternoon attack by dozens of Boko Haram gunmen in pickup trucks and motorcycles seized the base for several hours before reinforcements arrived and troops recaptured the base. By then Boko Haram had looted the base and made off with weapons, ammo, vehicles and equipment. Ten soldiers apparently died during the initial attack. May 2, 2019: In the northeast (Borno state), troops clashed with Boko Haram south of the state capital near Damboa, a market town astride the main north-south highway and killed over twenty of the Islamic terrorists. April 30, 2019: In the northeast (Borno State), Boko Haram killed 18 men who had been collecting firewood that is sold in a nearby refugee camp near Lake Chad. In general, Islamic terrorists dont trust these wood collectors and discourage them from working in rural areas where Boko Haram has its camps. April 29, 2019: In the northeast (Adamawa State), Boko Haram attacked a village, killed 25 people then looted the place and burned down most of the buildings. April 27, 2019: In the northeast (Borno state), Boko Haram attacked an island in the Cameroon portion of Lake Chad, killing four people, wounding four and looting homes and shops before fleeing to avoid troops from Cameroon and Chad that were in pursuit. April 26, 2019: In the northeast (Borno state), Boko Haram attacked a military base in the southernmost part of the state (Biu). Ten soldiers were killed and one captured. The army later reported that 30 soldiers were missing. The army does not like to admit that Boko Haram is becoming more deadly in Borno. April 25, 2019: In the south (the Niger River Delta), two foreign oil company employees were kidnapped after their police escorts were killed. This may be related to the military recently shutting down a major illegal refinery in Delta State. The gangs tap pipelines and bring the crude oil to portable refineries hidden in the delta, where it is refined into kerosene or diesel and sold locally. Refined fuels have long been imported because corruption prevented the construction and operation of refineries that could produce this fuel on a large scale locally. This particular refinery was one of the largest ever discovered and provided refinery and distribution services for several oil theft gangs. This refinery has remained hidden for so long because the oil theft gangs involved were locals and had intimidated locals into silence, even though many of the locals were angry at the water pollution the refinery caused. Some eventually informed the military task force that shuts down these operations. Locals asked the military to keep some troops in the area because the local gangsters were apparently planning to rebuild the refinery once the military personnel were no longer in the area. April 24, 2019: In the southern part of Borno State (135 kilometers southeast of the state capital), the air force attacked Boko Haram forces near Gwoza, a town near the Cameroon border that the army has repeatedly chased Boko Haram out of since 2014. At least five Islamic terrorists were killed. April 22, 2019: In the northeast (Borno state), troops clashed with Boko Haram outside Kukawa (near Lake Chad), killing at least three of the Islamic terrorists. In central Nigeria (Benue State), more violence between Fulani herders and Christian villagers left five Fulani dead. Many more clashes like this take place every week and dont get much publicity at all because they are in remote areas and by the time the government of media finds out about it the incident is old news and thus no news at all. In the northwest (Zamfara State), the air force attacked tribal militia and killed ten of the armed raiders. April 20, 2019: In the northwest (Zamfara State), soldiers killed six tribal raiders. April 16, 2019: In the northeast (Borno state), a large force of Boko Haram gunmen attacked an MNJTF (Multi-National Joint Task Force) base near Lake Chad. The attack was repulsed with more than 50 Islamic terrorists killed. The MNJTF lost two dead, with 11 wounded. The 8,700 man MNJTF is still actively attempting to eliminate any Boko Haram presence in the region. Of all the threats they face what scares the Boko Haram most is the MNJTF. Formed in early 2015 the MNJTF consists of troops from Niger, Chad, Cameroon, Benin and Nigeria. At first, the MNJTF was used mainly inside Nigeria but by early 2017 MNJTF was spending most of its time clearing Boko Haram out of border areas. Each member country assigns some of their best troops to the MNJTF and the Boko Haram have suffered heavy losses trying to fight MNJTF forces. CHICAGO, IL, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement to acquire the assets and operations of Atlantic Specialty Lines, Inc. (ASL), a privately owned wholesale insurance brokerage. ASL is headquartered in Richmond, VA and has additional locations in Illinois, Florida, Louisiana, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. The ASL team will become part of R-T Specialty, LLC (RT Specialty), the wholesale brokerage unit of Ryan Specialty Group, and will expand RT Specialtys footprint in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions. Additionally, it will be a major factor in the national expansion of the RT Binding Authority strategy. Atlantic Specialty Lines was founded in 1996 and has serviced a strong, long-tenured network of retail broker and agent clients throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. ASL is known for its ability to offer customized service, specialty expertise, and access to high quality carrier markets with extraordinary responsiveness. Lines of business in which the wholesaler focuses includes general liability, commercial property, commercial package, professional liability, and personal lines. Remarking on this acquisition, Tim Turner, Chairman and CEO of RT Specialty, said, We are thrilled to have the ASL team become a part of RT Specialty. Their level of service and expertise is exceptional. ASL is the perfect player to expand in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. We couldnt be more pleased. Seth Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Atlantic Specialty Lines, enthused, We are excited to be joining forces with RT Specialty and collaborating with like-minded professionals. The opportunities for both ASL and RT are huge. Our cultures are very similar with a high passion for the business and the unbending goal to win and provide the best solution and service for our clients. We are very much looking forward to our future with RT Specialty. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. For more information, please contact Alice Phillips Topping, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Ryan Specialty Group, at: Alice.Topping@ryansg.com, 312-635-5976 RT Specialty R-T Specialty, LLC (RT), a subsidiary of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, provides wholesale brokerage and other services to agents and brokers. RT is a Delaware limited liability company based in Illinois. In California: R-T Specialty Insurance Services, LLC License #0G97516. 2019 Ryan Specialty Group, LLC. rtspecialty.com Ryan Specialty Group, LLC Founded in 2010, Ryan Specialty Group, LLC is a leading international specialty insurance organization which includes a wholesale brokerage firm and highly specialized managing general underwriting companies designed specifically for brokers, agents and insurers. ryansg.com MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The information below is from the Ontario Federation of Labour: There is far too much at stake for communities right across Ontario to let Doug Ford damage and dismantle the best of what Ontario represents. The Ontario budget means cuts to education, health care, and the public services that Ontario families depend on, says the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL). Labour and community allies are at the forefront of the growing resistance and fightback against this government. On Thursday, May 9, the Ontario Federation of Labour and the Peel Regional Labour Council are hosting a Regional Activation Meeting in Mississauga. We are inviting all labour and community activists and leaders across the Peel Region. The cuts this government is making will affect every Ontarian, and people across the province are eager to stop the reckless cuts and privatization this government has proposed, said OFL President Chris Buckley. It is by coming together and fighting as a unified Power of Many that we will protect and win the strong public services, education, and health care that families depend on. Ontarians want a government that supports decent work, equality and justice, and safe, healthy workplaces and communities. We have fought and won before, said OFL Secretary-Treasurer Patty Coates. We are organizing to stop Fords irresponsible actions, and to take back Ontario. What: Peel Regional Activation Meeting When: May 9, 2019 at 5:30pm - 8:30pm Where: 1158 Aerowood Dr, Mississauga, ON L4W 1Y5 The Peel regional activation meeting will: Lay out what is at stake for Ontario in the coming months and years. Introduce the Power of Many campaign plan, designed to mobilize and activate union members and community allies. Launch province-wide rapid response networks to coordinate local fightback efforts. Build and set plans of resistance, including escalating actions with the support of concerned citizens and community allies. The Ontario Federation of Labour represents 54 unions and one million workers in Ontario. For information, visit www.ofl.ca and follow @OFLabour on Facebook and Twitter . For further information, please contact: Meagan Perry, Director of Communications, Ontario Federation of Labour mperry@ofl.ca l 416-894-3456 cope343 A Tauranga charity which operates on a shoe-string budget now have to look at gaining a resource consent or operate illegally. Whare Ora 111 Charitable Trust has been housing Tauranga's homeless at 111 Ohauiti Road with demand for their services high following the introduction of the Street Use and Public Places Bylaw 2018. The bylaw, which came into effect on April 1, will see people who are found sleeping or begging within 5m of a shop front in the central business district moved on. With just two toilets and one shower for about two dozen people, the community hall was never designed to be a shelter but it has become a welcome port in a storm for the increasing number of homeless in Tauranga, reports Stuff.co.nz The trust has started to turn people away as there are too many needing their help, placing a strain on their resources. "The Anglican Church are good-hearted and opened this place up for those displaced," says Whare Ora 111 chairperson Hoki Bruce. "We had about 40 people here in tents and some have not moved on." The site has been levelled out, which means caravans have replaced tents and a family of nine sleeps inside the community hall at night. The issue of resource consent came about after some people in the area complained about the location, resulting in a visit from council. Trustee Victoria Davies says they were told a resource consent could start at $5000 but could end up being tens of thousands if it was contested. "We lack the money to go through the resource consent process," she says. "We'll just have to operate illegally as no one has anywhere to go. Homeless are everywhere. All these laws do nothing to stop homelessness." Tauranga City Council environmental protection manager Andrew McMath says theyre working out the detail of what consent was needed from the charitable group before any cost assessment could take place. "The Trust are currently working through the type and scale of activity they wish to undertake," he says. "Once this has been determined, Council will be able to provide advice as to the nature of the resource consent required." -Additional reporting by Matt Shand/Stuff.co.nz Doubts are being raised about the future of mining in Coromandel after the Overseas Investment Office declined a mining company's bid to buy land for expansion. The Australia-based company OceanaGold applied to buy farmland in Waihi next to its gold mine so it could dump mine tailings. The purchase needed the approval of two ministers, and while the Associate Finance Minister David Clark approved the plan, Land Information Minister Eugenie Sage did not, meaning the Overseas Investment Office (OIO) was forced to decline the application. OceanaGold's senior community advisor Kit Wilson says the decision risked its future in the North Island region. "There's limited capacity for expansion which therefore means that jobs would have to be called into question after 2028," Kit says. "At the present time we have got plenty to keep us busy for the next 10 years, but certainly we will have to look at where to from here." Kit says the company was considering a judicial review of the decision. Chief executive of the minerals industry organisation Straterra, Chris Baker, says the declined application put the economy at risk too. "Export revenue in the order of $200 million to $300m per year ... is at stake," Chris says. He says Minister Sage's decision would scare off other investors. "[Investors] will look at this decision and consider that the sovereign risk they face in investing in New Zealand has changed for the worse, significantly." Chris says other mining companies operating here were "alarmed" by the decision. Hauraki District Mayor John Tregidga says the decision showed a blatant disregard for the 360 Waihi mine workers and their families. "For something so critical to the economic well-being of this district to be tossed out on a political whim like this is completely unpalatable to me." Eugenie says she and David had different views on what was substantial and identifiable benefits of the land purchase, which is what the law required them to agree on. She says she did not believe using productive farmland to establish a long-term tailing reservoir of mining waste would lead to such benefits. -RNZ/Madison_Reidy Todd Holcomb, president of Western Nebraska Community College, is returning to Iowa. Jay Nardini, chairman of the Hawkeye Community College board of trustees, recently announced Holcomb's selection for president of the college. Dr. Holcomb is currently president of Western Nebraska Community College, a multi-campus comprehensive community college with campuses in Scottsbluff, Sidney and Alliance. Prior to becoming president in 2010, he was vice president of student services from 2009 to 2010. Before his time as vice president of student services, he spent six years as associate vice presi... Jason Jelle removes the coating from the new Xpanxion logo at the front of the UST Global Xpanxion building at Illinois Street and 13th Avenue Thursday. The company is planning an hiring event for Tuesday and Wednesday, May 14-15. On May 2, DeSign Signs of Sterling finished the logo on the outside of the UST Global-Xpanxion building in Sidney. Next week, the company will be meeting with potential new employees. Bring your resume and your best presentation. UST Global and Xpanxion are needing to expand their staff, and they are opening their doors next week to people interested in a new career. Operations Manager Sourav Bhattacharya said Thursday they are planning a screening event 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, May 14-15. Bhattacharya said hiring will occur in two phases for the Sidney office. The company p... Rossanne Sylvia Schilz, 77 of Scottsbluff and longtime resident of Atkinson, NE passed away on Friday, May 3, 2019 in Denver, CO after a brief illness. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2019 at 10:30 A.M. at the First United Methodist Church in Scottsbluff with Pastor Craig Collins officiating. A memorial service in Atkinson, NE will be held May 25, 2019 at 10:30 A.M. at the First United Methodist Church in Atkinson with Father Randy Goeke officiating with inurnment following at Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends may stop at the Gehrig-Stitt Chapel on Friday to sign Rossanne... PASCAGOULA, Miss., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Huntington Ingalls Industries (NYSE:HII) Ingalls Shipbuilding division hosted a signing day ceremony on Tuesday for the 2019 graduates of its Shipbuilder Academy program. Twenty-six high school seniors were offered full-time positions at Ingalls after successfully completing the specialized career technical education (CTE) program. For more than 80 years, Ingalls has provided the families of our communities the opportunity to learn relevant job skills and build successful careers, said George S. Jones, Ingalls vice president of operations. Signing day is a continuation of that legacy. Todays event is the culmination of the good decisions made by the students and their families during their high school careers, by choosing to pursue career technical education and learn marketable trade skills. The students being honored today will join more than 11,000 employees of Ingalls Shipbuilding who are proud to be building the greatest ships in the world. A photo accompanying this release is available at: https://newsroom.huntingtoningalls.com/file/ingalls-signing-day-2019?action= . Upon graduation, the students will enter the Ingalls workforce as entry-level skilled craftsmen. The students were honored with a signing day ceremony they attended with their parents, much like high school athletes announcing their intended school. Shipbuilder Academy was established in 2016 with a mission to provide enrolled students with a strong foundation in the maritime industry and fill the current industry skills gap. The program, now entering its fourth year, has expanded to Mobile County and enrolls students from eight different high schools along the Gulf Coast, including Pascagoula, Gautier, Moss Point, East Central, Vancleave, St. Martin, Ocean Springs and Alma Bryant. So far 131 students have successfully completed the program and obtained National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certifications. Huntington Ingalls Industries is Americas largest military shipbuilding company and a provider of professional services to partners in government and industry. For more than a century, HIIs Newport News and Ingalls shipbuilding divisions in Virginia and Mississippi have built more ships in more ship classes than any other U.S. naval shipbuilder. HIIs Technical Solutions division provides a wide range of professional services through its Fleet Support, Mission Driven Innovative Solutions, Nuclear & Environmental, and Oil & Gas groups. Headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, HII employs more than 40,000 people operating both domestically and internationally. For more information, visit: HII on the web: www.huntingtoningalls.com HII on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HuntingtonIngallsIndustries HII on Twitter: twitter.com/hiindustries Contact: Bill Glenn william.glenn@hii-co.com 228-935-1323 For the past several months, a group of Floyd residents have been meeting to discuss affiliating with the League of Women Voters to promote voter education, voter registration, and voter access in the county. With help from the local Montgomery County chapter of LWV, a Floyd unit of this historic non-partisan organization has formed. The League of Women Voters was founded in 1920 during the convention of the National American Woman Suffrage Association, six months before the 19th amendments to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, giving women the right to vote. The idea was to help educate the newly enfranchised women to take an effective role in public affairs. Since the 1970s, the organization has welcomed both men and women. Members of the group have participated in voter registration efforts and are exploring other efforts to expand voting in Floyd County. A May meeting will be held on Saturday, May 11 upstairs at Red Rooster at 10 a.m. The group will welcome Jamie McReynolds from Blacksburg who offers Better Angels workshops designed to improve communication between people with differing political views. Everyone is invited to attend both the meeting at 10 and Rev. McReynolds presentation at 11 a.m. CFNRV is also pleased to announce the award of $11,000 in incentive grants, which encourage active participation during the Giving Day. Twelve organizations will receive these awards for outstanding promotion of the event, the largest number of unique donors by county, 100% board participation in giving, and more. These incentive grants were made possible with generous support from business sponsors, including the 2019 Platinum Sponsor, Plott & French Financial Advisors. Chris French, a Chartered Financial Analyst with the firm, sees GiveBigNRV as an important opportunity to invest in the community. French said, We are thrilled to see the Community Foundation exceed their fundraising goal and to see so many in our community come out to support the GiveBigNRV initiative. As a local business, Plott & French Financial Advisors was happy to do our part in sponsoring the Incentive Grants so that these worthwhile organizations receive the funds they need to continue the vital work they do in our community. Syracuse, N.Y. -- A venture capital firm based in Syracuse and New York City has launched a $31 million fund that it says will invest in early-stage technology companies. Armory Square Ventures said it will invest up to $2 million each in 15 to 20 companies with a focus on automotive technology, agriculture, manufacturing and health information technology industries and other high-growth sectors. The fund, Armory Square Ventures II, has raised $31 million, according to an April 17 filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. ASV will continue to build upon a unique investment strategy that focuses on allocating venture capital in industrial cities and regions that resemble Upstate New York, which have traditionally lagged behind in VC funding, the company said in a statement. Founded in 2014, Armory Square Ventures is one of the only institutional venture capital firms headquartered in Upstate New York. It invests in software and technology-enabled services companies and has more than $50 million under management. The firms portfolio across New York includes ACV Auctions, Agronomic Technology Corp., Bentobox CMS, Clerio Vision, Good Uncle, Squarefoot, Vengo Labs and Vizbee. In addition to investing in the companies, the firm assists with recruiting senior talent, customers and co-investors. Somak Chattopadhyay, the firms founder and managing partner, said he expects to announce investments by the new fund in one to two months. Were open for business and were excited about investing in this region, he said. The company has offices at 211 W. Jefferson St. in Syracuses Armory Square and at 26 Broadway in New York City. Rick Moriarty covers business news and consumer issues. Contact him anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148 GENEVA, NY -- One of Upstate New Yorks biggest and best known fresh fruit growers plans to cut the size of its orchards to put a greater focus on its expanding juice and beverage business. Red Jacket Orchards is putting the new emphasis on beverages as it transitions into ownership by the third generation of its founding family, the Nicholsons. This month, Red Jacket is also introducing a new family-sized package: Its putting its unfiltered, cold pressed juices in 52-ounce bottles (it currently also has 12- and 32-ounce sizes). Flavors include Fuji Apple, Raspberry, Strawberry, Cranberry, Black Currant and Grape. Red Jackets Orchards occupies about 600 acres -- including 400 acres of fruit trees -- on land overlooking Seneca Lake near Geneva. The Nicholson family opened the business in 1958, although it had been used for fruit-growing since 1917. For decades, its core business was growing and selling fruit, including from a farmstand on Routes 5 and 20 in Geneva and in green markets in New York City. Fruit is now sold all along the East Coast. Red Jacket built a juicery -- a state-of-the-art pressing and bottling operation -- on its property in 2010. That plant is LEED-certified, using all green energy. Since then, its fresh juice business has grown to dominate its sales. Beverage sales have grown 10 to 25 percent each year for the last decade, and now account for 80 percent of the companys sales, according to third-generation co-owner Brian Nicholson, now the company president and CEO. Meanwhile, weather and other issues continue to challenge the orchard side of the business, damaging fruit and contributing to losses. We continue to be inspired by the exponential growth of, and demand for, our 100%, all natural juice products, Nicholson said in a statement. We have known for some time that it would be a challenge to grow two capital intensive businesses at the same time, and so after the impacts of several crop losses, we decided this spring to turn our focus primarily to the beverage side. The fresh fruit beverages are distributed all along the East Coast, into the Midwest and as far west as Texas. Nicholson hopes to double Red Jackets beverage sales over the next five years. Red Jacket is announcing the new beverage focus just as the buds begin to bloom on its fruit trees. Although it may sell some of its acreage to other fruit growers, Joe Nicholson Jr., representing the familys second-generation ownership, will continue running the orchards and producing seasonal fruit. Joe Jr. is the father of Brian and his brother Mark, who also has a stake in the business. Mark lives in Washington, D.C. and focuses on agriculture policy. All of Red Jackets beverages are fresh, unfiltered and cold-pressed -- and non-alcoholic. But the company does sell apples to the growing hard cider business in New York and other states, including to the big Angry Orchard brand. Red Jacket said it has explored its own hard cider brands, but has not yet taken that step. We havent been in business for 60 years without constantly evaluating our strategic plans and focusing investments on profitable growth, Brian Nicholson said. The market is constantly changing and challenging us to deliver fresh food choices. Don Cazentre writes for NYup.com, syracuse.com and The Post-Standard. Reach him at dcazentre@nyup.com, or follow him at NYup.com, on Twitter or Facebook. DeWitt, N.Y. -- NexGen Power Systems has moved into a $100 million high-tech factory built by state taxpayers and is beginning to hire workers. The California-based startup has moved manufacturing equipment into the 82,200-square-foot facility at 50 Collamer Crossings Parkway in DeWitt and hired 22 people. NexGen founder, CEO and President Dinesh Ramanathan said the work force will grow to 36 in the next three months as the company fine-tunes its power transistor manufacturing equipment. Many of the jobs at NexGen require advanced degrees, and Ramanathan said it has not been easy finding qualified local candidates. NexGen, however, is finding some good workers from computer chip maker GlobalFoundries, which last year laid off 455 people in Malta and Albany. A little less than half of NexGens hires have come from GlobalFoundries, and Ramanathan said he expects to hire more. People have been happy to move to Syracuse, he said. That hasnt been a problem. Ramanathan said the company expects to begin making transistors by July, then spend the next few months optimizing its production process. In early 2020, NexGen will begin providing samples of its transistors to customers for testing in their power converters, he said, with full production scheduled to start in the third quarter (which begins July 1) of 2020. The company has pledged to create 290 full-time, permanent jobs at the facility within seven years in exchange for up to $15 million in grants from Empire State Development, New Yorks economic development arm. I dont see us not being able to hit those numbers, said Ramanathan, 49, who came to the United States from India in 1992 to earn his doctorate in computer science at University of California, Irvine. Empire State Development has provided $7.5 million in grants to NexGen so far, and Ramanathan said he expects the total to reach $13 million by the time the company has purchased all the equipment it needs to outfit its manufacturing lines. NexGen will be required to pay all or a portion of the grants back to the state if it does not meet its hiring commitments. The company is hiring equipment engineers, facility technicians, process engineers and other support personnel such as accountants and procurement specialists. Ramanathans management team includes Chief Operations Officer Shahin Sharifzadeh, former senior vice president of worldwide operations at Atmel Corp., and Vice President of Manufacturing Rick Williamson, who has 20 years of experience in the semiconductor industry. The facility was built at a cost of $90 million by SUNY Polytechnic Institutes Fort Schuyler Management Corp. with the expectation of leasing it to Soraa Inc., a startup that planned to make next-generation LED products. Soraa pulled out of the deal in 2017 before construction of the building was completed. Empire State Development, which took over the building in the wake of the SUNY Poly corruption scandal, then reached an agreement to lease the building to NexGen. NexGen plans to make power transistors based on gallium nitride technology, the same kind of technology that Soraa planned to use in its LED products. Though the building was designed for Soraa, NexGen has required only three modifications to it. Two have been completed -- making its cleanroom space cleaner and reworking its cold-water system to eliminate the possibility of iron corroding NexGens sensitive equipment. Ramanathan said the third change -- the installation of a redundant power supply -- will be done by National Grid in July. NexGen plans to sell its transistors to the makers of power converters for electric cars, data centers and solar power inverters. Transistors made from gallium nitride are many times more efficient than those made from silicon, allowing the power converters they go into to be smaller. Ramanathan said NexGen recently raised $25 million in funding from Acal, a Swiss private equity company. That should be enough to fund the company until it begins production in 2020, he said. NexGens headquarters remains in Santa Clara, California, where the company employs nine people. However, all its manufacturing and research and development will be done in DeWitt, Ramanathan said. This is where the bulk of the company is going to be, he said. Note: Open positions at NexGen are posted online at nexgenpowersystems.com/careers/. Rick Moriarty covers business news and consumer issues. Contact him anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148 Syracuse, NY -- A Syracuse mom watched in November as her 15-year-old son, Knowledge Powell, was sent to prison for shooting another 15-year-old six times, murdering him in July 2017. Today, that same mom, Christina Powell, took the witness stand in the murder of her older son, Daquarious, 18, who was shot in February 2018. Christina Powell testified today against accused murderer Zaccai Savery, 21, of Liverpool, whos accused of shooting Daquarious, his lifelong friend, behind a vacant East Fayette Street house. Daquarious Powell and Zaccai Savery had been partners in crime for years, robbing other people. And Daquarious believed that he and Zaccai were going to be robbing someone else that night, prosecutor Lauren Phelps told a jury during opening statements today. Instead, Savery turned the gun on his friend, shooting Daquarious Powell once in the head and then standing over him, firing one more shot, Phelps alleged. Daquarious Powell wasnt found until daylight. Thats eerily similar to the murder committed by Christina Powells younger son, Knowledge. In that 2017 case, Knowledge has admitted emptying a gun into an adversary over a teenage dispute. A wounded Akil Williams, 15, had fallen to the ground on his back, gasping for air. Knowledge stood over him and fired one last shot. (Akil Williams own brother, Vikal Williams, is also a convicted murderer from an unrelated incident.) Thats not the only connection between the two murders: Senior Assistant District Attorney Shaun Chase led both prosecutions and County Court Judge Matthew Doran presided over both cases. That means that the same prosecutor who convicted Christina Powells younger son of murder called her as a witness in her elder sons murder. This weeks trial -- in Daquariouss death -- provides a glimpse into the inner world of gangs, a world where robberies are rather commonplace and sons tell their mothers about their planned crimes. Powell answered questions today about her sons gang activities directly. Daquarious lived with her on Lodi Street, she said. And she testified that he had shared plans of the robbery the night he was killed. The loot? $10,000 from the victim, Powell testified. She recalled looking at a picture of the dilapidated house that her son was targeting that night and questioning whether it was even worth $10,000. Powell made clear that she didnt approve of her sons habit of robbing people, but said it was his life and she couldnt stop him. She got into an exchange with defense lawyer Todd Smith over the definition of violence. The mom appeared to try to downplay her sons history of robbing people. Smith tried to get her to acknowledge that robbery was a violent crime. Its very violent, she acknowledged. But he didnt kill anybody. On the witness stand, Powell admitted telling police that her son, Daquarious, was in trouble over an illegal gun sale. The buyer complained the gun didnt work and wanted $200. Daquarious didnt have the money, so he asked his mom. She testified that she told her son that was his problem to figure out. But, she said, the deadline to repay the guy was March 1, 2018 -- a week after Daquarious Powell was killed. She insisted that didnt have anything to do with his murder. She also acknowledged that both of her sons were involved in gangs, and that rival gang members might have considered retaliating against the Powell family after her son, Knowledge, committed murder. Nevertheless, Christina Powell pointed to other evidence that linked Savery to the crime. Powell said her son, while discussing his robbery plans, also expressed concern that something might be amiss that night. Thats despite the fact the friends had been hanging out at the Powells house on Lodi Street that day without any noticeable problems. Daquarious Powell indicated that if anything went wrong that night, Savery was responsible, Christina Powell told the jury. Her son even gave his mother Saverys phone number. When Daquarious never came home, his mother called and sent text messages to Saverys phone. She never got any reply. Christina Powell teared up on the witness stand and said she couldnt stand to read the text message she sent to Saverys phone. A copy was published for the jury to see. Savery was found in New York City weeks later. In a police interview, he denied killing his friend and noted that they planned to rob others that night. Smith and fellow defense lawyer Ken Moynihan plan to argue that none of the witnesses in the case are trustworthy. Zaccai Savery Police never found the gun used in the murder. Theres allegations that Savery, the accused, stole the victims cell phone afterward to conceal evidence. But that phone has never been found. The defense suggested during opening statements that the entire case will come down to the testimony of two men who say they witnessed the murder. Those witnesses were with Daquarious Powell and Zaccai Savery that night, theyve told police. One of those key witnesses disappeared earlier this year, delaying Saverys murder trial by months. Those witnesses are both expected to testify, as planned, this week. But Moynihan suggested to the jury that wouldnt be enough. Are you going to be able to believe what anybody says? he asked the jury. Theres no recovered money. No drugs. No obvious motive. I think at the end of the day, youre going to find you dont know what the truth is. The Finger Lakes Trio, a group of Symphoria musicians who perform together on piano, cello and violin, will return to Pulaskis LaVeck Concert series with a new program of chamber music on Thursday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m. LaVeck Concerts are held at the Pulaski Congregational Church, 27 Lake St., Pulaski. The Finger Lakes Trio violinist Sonya Williams, cellist Heidi Hoffman and pianist Rob Auler will perform a new Piano Trio by Eastman School of Music graduate Carter Pann as well as an 18th Century piano trio by Classical master Franz Joseph Haydn. Williams also will feature a violin work by Estonian composer Arvo Part and Hoffman a cello piece called Capriccio by German composer Lukas Foss. Auler, an accomplished pianist and professor at SUNY Oswego who is artistic director of the LaVeck series, said he met Williams and Hoffman performing together with Syracuses symphony orchestra, Symphoria, and they debuted as the Finger Lakes Trio to perform at LaVeck in 2017. They have performed frequently as a trio since then. While its fun to debut a group like the Finger Lakes, it is equally fun to show the outcome of a lot more germination, work, getting to know each others playing and things like that, Auler said. We have gotten to be so comfortable as chamber musicians and friends that theres getting to be a certain magic in the project that Im really excited about. Auler said three of the four pieces on Thursdays program are not widely known to audiences, but are so beautiful and accessible that first-time chamber music concert-goers will appreciate them as much as veteran Classical fans. He described the Piano Trio by Carter Pann as an absolutely wonderful, beautiful, incredible, amazing piece that I am really cannot wait for the audience to hear. There is nothing avant garde or crazy about it in other words, even first-time concert attendees will find it appealing. While the Haydn is a more traditional piece by a beloved master, the Arvo Part violin piece and the Lukas Foss piece are more contemporary, yet very accessible. He called the Arvo Part piece a hauntingly beautiful piece that uses elements of minimalism, rhythmic repetition and very pleasing chords to create an almost ethereal effect. Lucas Fosss six-minute Capricciio has been called a strenuous workout for the cellist featuring music that is filled with optimism on the part of a German who has fled Nazi Germany for a new life in America. As always, LaVeck musicians will offer commentary from the stage and greet the public after the show at reception with free refreshments. The suggested donation is $10 adults, but no admission fee is required and students are encouraged to attend for free. Next Up: After Thursdays concert by the Finger Lakes Trio, the next concert in the LaVeck series will be Nicolas Orbovich on violin and Rob Auler on piano performing Johannes Brahms Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 6. SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- In an effort to make a point about housing markets Monday, a Syracuse Common Councilor borrowed a $20 bill from another councilor, produced a pair of scissors, and cut it to pieces. The stunt was met with gasps, laughter and chiding criticism from a statewide activist. The council had met to weigh the merits of proposed legislation that would extend New York Citys rent control policies to upstate New York. Advocates argued it would protect tenants from unfair rent hikes or evictions. Some councilors countered it would wreak havoc on an already depressed housing market in Syracuse and make it more difficult to sell property. In the midst of the lengthy, intricate discussion on market forces and Syracuses housing crisis, Councilor Tim Rudd tried to demonstrate an economic principle called deadweight loss. He was concerned government interference would further erode Syracuse property values. He asked his fellow councilor, Joe Driscoll, for a $20 bill. Dont rip it up, Driscoll said, reluctantly handing over a crisp $20 after first refusing. Im not going to rip it up, Rudd said while removing a pair of scissors from his jacket pocket. Im going to cut it up. He chopped the bill into tiny pieces. Some people in the galley grumbled or gasped. Others laughed. Driscoll looked on sheepishly. This is deadweight loss, Rudd said. It just... poof...gone. Thats the efficiency loss that happens. Youre going to get less housing because people make less money on housing. Price is lower than it should be so people make less of it. Rebecca Garrard, a statewide organizer with Citizen Action of New York, had spent about 20 minutes sparring with councilors as she tried to promote the benefits of the rent control bill. She pushed back against Rudd, saying she could share articles from leading economists who disagreed with him. She also chided him for wasting money. While cutting that up was, um, Im not sure what kind of analogy, there are people who are starving and dont have a home so that was a real waste of $20," she said. I went to the Maxwell School and my econ professor, at the number one ranked public policy school in the country, did this exact thing to demonstrate what deadweight loss is, Rudd interjected. Well, ok," Garrard replied, "that was another $20 that people who cant eat or dont have a home could have really used in a different way. So perhaps the economy schools could think of another analogy. Later on, Councilor Khalid Bey said he agreed with Rudds point about deadweight loss, but might have taken a different approach to demonstrating it. In regards to the $20 bill I happen to actually agree, although I would have taken a piece of paper and wrote twenty on it and had it imitate a $20 bill as opposed to cutting up a $20," Bey said. "I dont know if thats legal to cut up money. The two-minute exchange was just one of several heated interactions during an unusually combative council committee meeting. Councilor Latoya Allen has asked her fellow councilors to show support for a pair of state bills intended to stymy unfair rent increases and no-cause evictions. One of those bills, sponsored by Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, makes it illegal to evict a tenant -- even with 30 days notice -- without good cause. It is intended to protect people from things like retaliatory eviction or unreasonable rent hikes. Allen accused Rudd of representing the real estate industry, not the people of the city. Rudd responded that city residents are property owners too. No agreement was reached at the meeting. A resolution voicing support for the state bills could come up for a vote in two weeks, at which point the debate will resume. Rudd said he gave Driscoll a fresh $20 after the meeting. You can view the full video here. The incident starts around the 25-minute mark. In other council business Monday, councilors approved a budget and delayed a vote on citywide 5G: Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 8) Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Teddyboy Locsin Jr. paid a courtesy call on Singapores Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and met with his counterpart on Wednesday. A statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs said Locsin held a bilateral meeting with Singpores Foreign Minister Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, where they reviewed and discussed the future direction of relations between the country. They unveiled the commemorative logo marking the two country's 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, kicking off a year-long series of activities in the Philippines and Singapore. Locsin, during the lunch hosted by Balakrishnan, touted the political and economic partnership between the two countries, which are both part of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations. He also noted how Singapore extended assistance in the aftermath of the Marawi crisis. Locsin will also visit the Philippine Embassy in Singapore to observe the overseas voting for the 2019 midterm polls. TORONTO, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Itafos (TSX VENTURE: IFOS) (the Company) announced today the retirement of Marten Walters, Vice President of Engineering, effective May 1, 2019. Mr. Walters has served as Vice President of Engineering since January 2017, supporting the Company in various areas, including development and engineering for new projects, the recommissioning of Itafos Arraias and providing technical support for Itafos Conda and Itafos Farim. Dr. Wynand van Dyk, who recently joined Itafos as Vice President of Operations, will assume Mr. Walters responsibilities. We are very thankful to Marten for his unique expertise and commitment during his tenure at Itafos and for his contribution to the successful growth of the Company. We wish him well in his retirement, commented Brian Zatarain, Itafos Chief Executive Officer. About Itafos Itafos is a vertically integrated phosphate fertilizers and specialty products company with an attractive portfolio of long-term strategic businesses and projects located in key fertilizer markets worldwide. Itafos is managed by an experienced and diverse team with extensive operations, commercial and financial expertise. Itafos owns and operates Itafos Conda, a vertically integrated phosphate fertilizer business with production and sales capacity of approximately 550kt per year of monoammonium phosphate (MAP), superphosphoric acid (SPA), merchant grade phosphoric acid (MGA) and specialty products including ammonium polyphosphate (APP) located in Idaho, US, and Itafos Arraias, a vertically integrated phosphate fertilizer business with production and sales capacity of approximately 500kt per year of single superphosphate (SSP), SSP with micronutrients (SSP+) and other products and approximately 40kt per year of excess sulfuric acid located in Tocantins, Brazil. Itafos owns and is developing Itafos Paris Hills, a high-grade phosphate mine project located in Idaho, US, Itafos Farim, a high-grade phosphate mine project located in Farim, Guinea-Bissau, Itafos Santana, a vertically integrated high-grade phosphate fertilizer project located in Para, Brazil, Itafos Araxa, a vertically integrated phosphate and rare earth oxide mine project located in Minas Gerais, Brazil and Itafos Mantaro, a large phosphate mine project located in Junin, Peru. For more information, please visit the Companys website, www.itafos.com. Forward Looking Information Certain information contained in this news release constitutes forward looking information. All information other than information of historical fact is forward looking information. The use of any of the words intend, anticipate, plan, continue, estimate, expect, may, will, project, should, would, believe, predict and potential and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking information. This information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward looking information. No assurance can be given that this information will prove to be correct and such forward looking information included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. Forward looking information is subject to a number of risks and other factors that could cause actual results and events to vary materially from that anticipated by such forward looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from expected results described in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risk factors set out in the Companys Management Discussion and Analysis and other disclosure documents available under the Companys profile at www.sedar.com . Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of risks, uncertainties and assumptions are not exhaustive. The forward looking information included in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and is made as of the date of this news release. Itafos undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward looking information except as required by 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. For further information, please contact: LITTLE FALLS -- John Krasinski visited the Central New York City of Little Falls Tuesday as he decides on where to shoot the sequel to the hit horror film A Quiet Place. Mayor Mark Blask met with Krasinski and six representatives from Paramount Pictures to discuss the possibility of once again filming in the city. "They're trying to finalize where they will shoot 'A Quiet Place 2,'" said Blask during a telephone interview. "We're doing everything in our power to have them come back here." Krasinski, his wife actress Emily Blunt and film crew from Paramount Pictures filmed scenes for the original A Quiet Place in Little Falls for two days in October 2017. Directed by Krasinski, "A Quiet Place" was one of the best reviewed films of 2018 and garnered award nominations from the Oscars, Golden Globes, British Academy of Film and Television Arts and the Screen Actors Guild, which presented Blunt with the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role for her turn as Eveyln Abbot in the film. Blask, who posted a photo of Krasinski's visit on Tuesday on his Facebook page, said the hope is the positive experience the film crew had last time will be a reason for them to come back. "We really said 'yes' to everything they wanted and, I think, in the movie shooting business, a community that is welcoming and agrees to close streets and to work late and truck in sand and do the things they did, it ends up being a win-win for both parties," he said. Blask also talked about the positive impact on having a slice of Hollywood in the community. "People thought it was a cool thing to have in the community," he said. "It had a positive financial impact, as well." A sequel to the film was announced earlier this year. Krasinski -- who starred in the television show "The Office" -- also starred in and wrote the original "A Quiet Place" and was an executive producer on the project. He is planning to write and direct the sequel. Blask said there seemed to be interest to bring the production back to the city. "They're certainly interested," he said. "It was such a positive experience the first time. We're sort of trying to use that to our advantage." John Krasinski Seen Walking Up and Down Main Street in Little Falls Scoping Out Locations for "A Quiet Place 2" - https://t.co/eBCss3sEDk pic.twitter.com/hjCQQ8gdxl TALK! 100.7 FM (@_talkfm) May 8, 2019 Blask said Tuesday there was still no commitment from Krasinski or Paramount Pictures and that decisions are still being made. He said, however, the film representatives told them it wouldnt be long before they knew whether they will be shooting in the area again. Multiple media outlets reported Tuesday the sequel to A Quiet Place will be filmed in Western New York. WHAM-TV and WKBW reported the Buffalo Niagara Film Commission confirmed that A Quiet Place 2 will film scenes in Erie County. Krasinski was spotted scouting locations near Buffalo last month. It was reported in February that production on the sequel is scheduled to begin in July, with a release date scheduled for May 15, 2020. - By Stephanie Sorrell-White, The Times Telegram, Herkimer, N.Y. A man currently serving prison time for threatening to kill former president Barack Obama has been charged with five more crimes, including threatening to kill president Donald Trump with anthrax. Jared Marc Brown, 23, of Lockport, NY, was indicted on five counts by a federal grand jury, the U.S. Attorneys office announced on Wednesday. He is charged with: Making a threat against the president Two counts of retaliating against a United States judge Retaliating against a federal law enforcement officer Mailing a threatening communication Now he faces a penalty of up to 10 years in prison. According to the indictment, on March 25, 2019, Brown sent a letter to a United States Secret Service Special Agent stating, Im gonna kill Donald Trump with Anthrax when I get out. He also threatened to murder United States District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo, his spouse, and a United States Secret Service Special Agent. In 2016, Brown pleaded guilty to threatening to kill then-president Obama during a call to Lockport Police. He also admitted he watched shows on serial killers and assassins, looked up how to build a bomb on the Internet and had bought a gun and shot at people at the time. In 2017, Brown threatened president Trump while at the Allenwood Federal Penitentiary. Mental treatment was ordered following that incident. Shaker High student Madison VanDenburg is favored to win this years American Idol, according to the online wagering site BookMaker. Now in the top five contestants in the singing competition, the 17-year-old from Cohoes has 9-4 odds of winning on the site, ahead of Laine Hardy (3-1), Alejandro Aranda (7-2) and Laci Kaye Booth (4/1). Wade Cota has the longest odds, at 5-1. The new projections put VanDenburg ahead of the odds another site published two weeks ago, when Hardy was at 2-5 and VanDenburg at 3-1. VanDenburg advanced to the penultimate episode of the 17th season of "Idol" this past Sunday, when she sang Janis Joplin's "Piece of my Heart" on the first performance of the night, which featured Woodstock-era classics. For her second song, in the Showstoppers category, she sang "I Surrender" by Celine Dion. VanDenburg received high praise on Sunday from the three celebrity judges, who dubbed her "the next Kelly Clarkson" in her audition last fall, referring to the first "Idol" winner. "I don't want you to be second. I want you to win this thing," judge Katy Perry said Sunday. After her performance, the camera panned to VanDenburg's mother, who drove for three and a half days with a banner on the back of her car to watch her daughter sing Sunday. In a viewing party Sunday at Cohoes Music Hall, where VanDenburg has performed, Mayor Shawn Morse led the crowd to record a video saying "We love you!" to their local favorite. VanDenburg sent her own video to show fans at the event. "Thank you for supporting me before 'American Idol' even started. It's awesome to see so much support for talent in the Capital Region. I really wouldn't be anywhere without you guys," VanDenburg said on the video. "I hope to make you proud. I cannot wait to come back to New York!" "No matter what happens, I'm really happy with what I've achieved," VanDenburg told the Times Union last week. "It would be OK if I didn't win. Everything I've gotten out of the show has been incredible." VanDenburg auditioned in October and was one of 40 contestants invited to Los Angeles for the show, which began airing March 3. Pretaped for the first 13 weeks, "Idol" has broadcast live since April 21. Idol airs at 8 p.m. Sunday on ABC. By Steve Barnes, Times Union, Albany, N.Y. The blue Chevy pickup truck drove west on Oil Well Road, police say, blew through a stop sign and hung a left onto Tamiami Trail in the dark of night, around 3:15 a.m., Monday. Florida sheriff's deputies turned on their lights and sirens. When they approached the pickup, the driver said he and his passenger had been collecting frogs and snakes from under a nearby overpass. The driver, Michael Cody Clemons, told officers that he and his passenger, Ariel Michelle Marchan-Le Quire, were gathering the wildlife together, according to an incident report. There are some animals that people are simply not allowed to possess in Florida, or at the very least, that people can't have unless they have a permit. Bears, tigers, rhinoceroses and crocodiles are illegal. Cougars, howler monkeys, wolves and cassowaries are fine as long as a permit is obtained. Particularly applicable in this instance: Florida law does not allow the capture or possession of poisonous reptiles - copperheads, eastern diamondbacks, coral snakes to name a few - unless there's a permit involved. So the Charlotte County deputy asked Clemons and Marchan-Le Quire if they would open their backpacks and show their haul - just to make sure they didn't have anything illegal, the report says. Clemons, 22, had clothes and other personal items in his bag. Marchan-Le Quire, 25, grabbed her backpack from the floor next to her feet and unzipped it to show 43 small turtles piled inside, the report says. "Anything else?" a second deputy asked. It was then that Marchan-Le Quire reached into her yoga pants and tugged out a foot-long alligator. "When deputies asked her if she had anything else on her person the deputies needed to know about, she pulled a foot-long alligator out of her yoga pants and placed it in the truck bed."#FloridaWoman pic.twitter.com/Q7C0Rh3Va1 Dave Levora (@davelevora) May 7, 2019 According to the incident report, the state's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission seized the animals and released them back into the wild. Clemons and Marchan-Le Quire were cited for violations of state wildlife laws. The sheriffs office joked about the incident on Twitter: "Not to be outdone by #Floridaman , a #FloridaWoman pulled this alligator out of her pants this morning during traffic stop after being asked the standard Do you have anything else? " LONDON (AP) Royal couple Meghan and Prince Harry revealed their newborn son to the public on Wednesday, with the proud new mother declaring him a dream. The couple, known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, posed with their son for cameras at Windsor Castle the first in a lifetime of photo calls for the two-day-old baby, who is seventh in line to the throne. They did not reveal the name of the child, known for now as Baby Sussex. Harry cradled the apparently sleeping baby, wrapped in a white blanket and wearing a matching cap, in his arms. Meghan declared motherhood to be "magic." She said the baby had "just been a dream." "He has the sweetest temperament. He's really calm," she said. Harry quipped: "I wonder who he gets that from." Britain's Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, during a photocall with their newborn son, in St George's Hall at Windsor Castle, Windsor, south England, Wednesday May 8, 2019. (Dominic Lipinski/Pool via AP)AP Asked which parent the baby took after, Harry said it was too soon to tell. "His looks are changing every single day, so who knows?" The couple left the photo call to introduce the baby to his grandparents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. The infant is seventh in line to the British throne and is the eighth great-grandchild of 93-year-old Elizabeth, Britain's longest reigning monarch. Baby Sussex was born Monday at 5:26 a.m. (0426 GMT; 12:26 a.m. EDT) at an as-yet-undisclosed location. Family members have welcomed the new arrival, with Prince William saying on Tuesday he was absolutely thrilled. HOUSTON, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Harvest Oil & Gas Corp. (OTCQX: HRST) (Harvest) today announced plans to release first quarter 2019 results on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 prior to market open. About Harvest Oil & Gas Corp. Harvest is an independent oil and gas company engaged in the efficient operation and development of onshore oil and gas properties in the continental United States. The Companys assets consist primarily of producing and non-producing properties in the Barnett Shale, the Appalachian Basin (which includes the Utica Shale), Michigan, the Mid-Continent areas in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Kansas and Louisiana, the Permian Basin and the Monroe Field in Northern Louisiana. More information about Harvest is available on the internet at https://www.hvstog.com . Harvest Oil & Gas Corp., Houston, TX Ryan Stash 713-651-1144 hvstog.com Reach key decision makers with sales-ready leads that shorten your sales process. Move the needle by delivering funnel qualified leads to your sales team. Learn more Google has unveiled new minimum standards for temps, vendors and contractors (TVCs) in the United States, in response to demands from an employee coalition that included full-time Google staffers as well as temporary workers and contractors. Yesterday, we shared an update on some new initiatives to support our extended U.S. workforce including comprehensive healthcare, 12 weeks parental leave, (US)$15 an hour minimum wage, and $5,000 a year in tuition reimbursement, Google spokesperson Jenn Kaiser told TechNewsWorld on Wednesday. Companies that employ U.S. vendors and temporary staff will need to provide the following in order to do business with Google: Comprehensive healthcare for employees and their dependents; At least eight days of paid sick leave; At least $15 an hour by year end. Where the minimum wage already is more, they have to meet the higher requirement; 12 weeks of parental leave not only for birth parents, but also for non-birth parents or adoptive parents; and $5,000 per year in tuition reimbursement to learn new skills or take courses. None of these provisions currently is mandated by U.S. law, Kaiser pointed out. The minimum wage requirement will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2020; the other benefits will not be required until Jan. 1, 2022. Google reportedly will identify and address areas of potential improvement outside of the U.S. Googles U.S. workforce includes the following: Google employees; Vendors who work for companies that are under contract with Google to provide specialized services in fields outside of Googles core competencies; Independent contractors that is, people who are self-employed; and Temporary staff who join Googles workforce on a short-term basis to sub for people taking parental or short-term leave, for example. Companies employ contractors for a variety of reasons, noted Constellation Research Principal Analyst Holger Mueller, whose focus is the future of work. There are temporary needs, and not all contractors are good enough to become [full-time] employees, for instance, he said. Even if you have plenty of money, you dont need to give it away, Mueller remarked. You cannot go back and take away [employees and contractors] salaries when the company does less well. Polishing the Image In general, this will increase [Googles] costs, but it should also result in a better quality of worker, and should improve their image, which needs a lot of help at the moment, observed Rob Enderle, principal analyst at the Enderle Group. A D V E R T I S E M E N T With relation to its workforce policies, Googles image is somewhat battered. The plight of Googles shadow workforce contractors who dont get the same benefits as full-time employees was the subject of a Bloomberg report last summer. At least 20,000 full-time Google workers joined with contractors in 50 cities worldwide in a walkout last fall to protest the companys handling of a number of workplace issues, including sexual harassment. Googles shadow workforce sent a letter to CEO Sunder Pichai in the aftermath of the walkout, detailing grievances and demanding changes, including the following: Better pay and access to benefits on par with full-time employees; A career path to full employment; and Access to company-wide information on the same terms as Google employees. Things came to a head on earlier this year, when Google terminated the contracts of 34 of 43 members of the Personality Team, which develops the voice of the Google Assistant. Those dismissed were TVCs in various countries. The layoffs were to be implemented April 5 in most cases, and July 31 in others. Full-time employees were barred from offering support to those laid off, because that apparently would have opened Google to legal action. Thats when lawyers take over, employees go rogue, and enterprises pay the bill, Constellations Mueller said. Well, ultimately customers do. Google knew [the layoffs] would not be popular, so they must have had a good reason, he pointed out. Its employees on an AI product resisting letting go of contractors who are no longer needed, likely because of advances in AI. More than 900 full time employees signed a letter protesting Googles termination of the contracts. A D V E R T I S E M E N T The letter demanded that Google take the following steps: Respect and uphold existing contracts; Pay those laid off whose contracts were shortened for the remaining length of their contracts; Respect the work of contractors; convert contract workers to full-time employees and give them the benefits and stability they deserve; and Allow FTE colleagues openly empathize with TVCs. The layoffs were particularly galling because Google has been making money hand over fist. Revenue growth was up 23 percent year over year in 2018, to nearly $137 billion, and up 22 percent for Q4, to more than $39 billion, according to Alphabet and Google Chief Financial Officer Ruth Porat. She predicted great opportunities ahead. Labor Relations Google just doesnt get corporate ethics, nor do they seem to understand strong command and control, Enderle told TechNewsWorld. Thus they constantly have problems where the employees successfully revolt. This is far from a best practice, though, as firms should be run from the top, not the bottom. Google is a dot-com company that never experienced a true capitalist market before becoming successful, remarked Michael Jude, program manager at Stratecast/Frost & Sullivan. Its discovering labor relations all over again and finding that labor can exert quite a bit of leverage in the market, he told TechNewsWorld. We are in the early stages of creating a new kind of labor union. What we are seeing might be only the first salvo in a continuing fight for higher wages, better benefits, etc., Jude noted. Google ought to send their executive team to talk to GM or Ford. The changes may be a plus for employees in terms of day-to-day operations, but from an enterprise agility perspective they may not be such a good idea, observed Constellations Mueller. Google is late to the party. Facebook raised its minimum wage to $15 an hour and offered benefits to U.S.-based contractors last spring, while Amazon raised its minimum wage to $15 an hour and introduced other benefits for all U.S. employees including seasonal holiday employees and associates employed by temp agencies last fall. These changes might impact innovation, Mueller warned. For seed companies or self-financed startups, $15 an hour is much harder to pay. A little bit of Silicon Valley will die. In brief: The Intel CPU shortage that has ben going on since August 2018 is reportedly showing signs of easing. Supply chain players have seen an uptick in orders and Intel clients are reporting that shipments of entry-level CPUs may start up again this summer. The entry-level CPU shortages that began last year may be easing up soon. Despite previous projections from March that shortfalls would continue into Q2 2019, industry sources say that the drought in the entry-level market will ease up next month. DigiTimes reports that Intel has informed notebook clients that it will be ready to start shipping lower-end CPUs by June. According to the shipment volume that Intel has promised, there will still be some shortages, but the shortfall will narrow significantly, the sources said. Supply chain vendors have experienced increased demand from the notebook market since the beginning of Q2 2019. The upward momentum is partially attributed to Intels and Nvidias release of new processors last month. The increase in the supply of entry-level units in June is likely to continue that upward trend. "With Intel expected to increase supply of processors for budget notebooks in June, brand vendors such as Dell, HP and Lenovo are expected to step up placing orders with Intel rather than AMD." The sources expect manufacturers including Dell, HP, and Lenovo to begin placing orders with Intel when the supply is restored. They had been relying on AMD during the shortage. It is unclear whether Intels supply will trickle down to the smaller budget-priced notebook makers. Intel tends to prioritize higher-margin products. So the big three are at the head of the line. Companies like Compal and Clevo, blame the shortage of Intel CPUs on poor performance in Q1 2019. [Our] lackluster notebook shipment performance in the first quarter of 2019 was mainly caused by Intel's CPU supply shortfalls and not by market demand slowdown, said Compal Vice Chairman Ray Chen. Clevo, which handles contract procurement for notebook vendors in Europe, South America, and China said government projects have been going to Dell, HP, and Lenovo thanks to its clients not being able to secure a steady supply of Intel processors. While shortages are expected to continue, well have to see how much impact Intels supply has on the budget-minded vendors. Scientists hunting for gravitational waves found ripples in space-time revealing five possible collisions, including one involving a black hole eating a neutron star. The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory uses faint ripples in space-time to find gravitational waves that result from titanic collisions between cosmic objects as far as billions of light-years from Earth. There was a time when such sightings are impossible to spot from Earth, but with the recent updates to LIGO, scientists are able to record gravitational wave events almost weekly. LIGO Records 5 Collisions In 1 Month In the beginning of April, scientists behind LIGO began the observatory's third round of observations. With two detector locations in Washington and Louisiana, the team collaborated with the Europe-based Virgo detector and quickly detected a range of cosmic collisions in the span of a single month. A total of five potential gravitational-wave candidates have been recorded in the month of April 2019. This is nearly half of all previous observations combined, which only add up to 11 events. Three of these events are black hole collisions, but the last two are much rare sights for astronomers: one of a neutron star merger 500 million light-years away and another of a black hole swallowing a neutron star in its entirety 1.2 billion light-years away. All of these signals detected by LIGO and Virgo are awaiting confirmation with follow-up analysis. A New Era In Gravitational Wave Observations As impressive as all these detections are, it's only the beginning of this field of study as scientists constantly calibrate and improve LIGO to detect collisions that are farther and farther away. "The most exciting thing of the beginning of O3 [this third observation round] is that it's clear we are going from one event every few months to a few events every month," explained Salvatore Vitale, a researcher at the LIGO Laboratory at MIT, during the news conference. "This is going to allow for all these kinds of tests that require either a very loud, very clear detection or a lot of detections. And we will have both of them." In the future, the gravitational wave detectors could be capable of finding distant supernovas as well as signals from spinning neutron stars. The team has also set up an automated public alert system to keep the people updated on the events detected by LIGO and Virgo. Now, astronomy enthusiasts can keep track of the action and get a more detailed glimpse into the process online. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Arlington, VA, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rosetta Stone Inc. (NYSE: RST), a world leader in technology-based learning solutions, today announced that the Company will participate in the Needham Emerging Technology Conference, which is taking place May 21 - 22, 2019 at The Westin Grand Central Hotel in New York, NY. John Hass, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Tom Pierno, Chief Financial Officer, will hold meetings with investors throughout the day on May 21, 2019. About Rosetta Stone Inc. Rosetta Stone Inc. (NYSE: RST) is dedicated to changing people's lives through the power of language and literacy education. The company's innovative digital solutions drive positive learning outcomes for the inspired learner at home or in schools and workplaces around the world. Founded in 1992, Rosetta Stone's language division uses cloud-based solutions to help all types of learners read, write and speak more than 30 languages. Lexia Learning, Rosetta Stone's literacy education division, was founded more than 30 years ago and is a leader in the literacy education space. Today, Lexia helps students build fundamental reading skills through its rigorously researched, independently evaluated, and widely respected instruction and assessment programs. For more information, visit www.rosettastone.com. "Rosetta Stone" is a registered trademark or trademark of Rosetta Stone Ltd. in the United States and other countries. At least four types of sunscreen ingredients absorbed by the skin must be researched thoroughly, as a new report revealed they can enter the bloodstream at potentially dangerous levels. A new study conducted by the Food and Drug Administration showed that a day is enough for four sunscreen chemicals to enter the bloodstream and remain there until the concentration of chemicals continues to increase with daily use. Should sunscreen use be abandoned completely? Experts from the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research under the FDA said this does not mean that sunscreen use should be avoided. Instead, the FDA urges that more research must be done to ensure that these four sunscreen chemicals are "regarded as safe and effective." Researchers Examine Sunscreen Ingredients In the new study, researchers enrolled 24 healthy volunteers and randomly assigned whoever will use any of the following products: a spray or a lotion that contained the chemicals octocrylene, avobenzone, and oxybenzone, or a sunscreen that contained the chemical ecamsule. Study participants were told to put on the sunscreen on 75 percent of their bodies four times each day for four days. Over the course of seven days, at least 30 blood samples were taken from each participant. Researchers found that five out of six participants who used the sunscreen with ecamsule had traces of the chemical in their blood with levels that were significant enough by the end of the first day. Meanwhile, all the other participants who used the lotion or spray with three chemicals also showed significant levels in their blood. Concerns Over Sunscreen Ingredients Sunscreen was approved for use in the United States as a solution to sunburn. One type of sunscreen used chemicals to filter the sun, while another type of sunscreen used minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide to block the sun. David Andrews, a senior scientist from the Environmental Working Group, explained that there weren't a lot of concern about the impact of sunscreens at first, but this changed when the FDA began conducting safety tests. Andrews explained the chemical oxybenzone stood out in the new study. "Oxybenzone was absorbed into the body at about 50 to 100 times higher concentration than any of these other three chemicals they tested," Andrews added. This can be alarming because a 2008 study examined urine samples and found traces of oxybenzone in 97 percent of the samples. Since then, oxybenzone has been linked to shorter pregnancies in women, hormone changes in men, and lower levels of testosterone in young boys. However, these are only correlations, and researchers warn against concluding associations. Still, some states have decided to ban the use of sunscreens with oxybenzone. In Hawaii, sunscreens that contained oxybenzone and octinoxate have been banned because they allegedly cause coral bleaching. Sunscreen Is Not Unsafe, But More Research Must Be Done Dr. Robert Califf, former chairman of the FDA, assured the public that the findings of the research, which has been issued in the journal JAMA, does not mean that sunscreen is unsafe. On that note, Dr. David Leffell from the American Academy of Dermatology urged that more studies must be conducted to find out whether sunscreen has harmful effects. In the meantime, he said people should be "aggressive about sun protection." Lastly, Scott Faber from the EWG said that finding out that chemicals put on the skin can be absorbed by the body is not new. He explained that the new study is the FDA's way of telling sunscreen manufacturers to conduct research to see if chemical absorption poses health risks. Photo: Cam Fu | Flickr 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A team of scientists has made a recent discovery that could explain the ebbs and flow of the magnetic field protecting all life on Earth. The study published on May 6, Monday, discovered that molten iron alloys that contain silicon and oxygen form two liquids that have similar conditions as those within the core of the planet. The process is called immiscibility and the team compared it to vinaigrette in a salad. "We observe liquid immiscibility often in everyday life, like when oil and vinegar separate in salad dressing," shared Sarah Arveson, a graduate student at Yale University. "It is surprising that liquid phase separation can occur when atoms are being forced very close together under the immense pressures of Earth's core." Arveson is the lead author of the study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The Earth's Core As A Salad Dressing Deep beneath the surface of the planet is the outer core, a fluid layer made up mostly of iron and nickel. The 2,000-kilometer thick outer core is responsible for the magnetic field. The magnetic field is produced by convection that takes place within the outer core. The hot fluids are mostly well mixed together, but there is still a separate layer at the top where seismic waves travel more slowly compared to the rest of the outer core. In their study, Arveson and colleagues reproduced the conditions within the Earth's outer core using laser-heated diamond-anvil cell experiments (to mimic the extremely high pressures beneath the surface) and computer simulations. They demonstrated two liquid layers: the first one was an oxygen-poor iron-silicon liquid and the other was an iron-silicon-oxygen liquid. The latter was less dense, which meant that it rose to the top and formed its own distinct layer. The experiment, according to the researchers, is proof of the immiscible iron alloys that form layers at the outer core. "Our study presents the first observation of immiscible molten metal alloys at such extreme conditions, hinting that immiscibility in metallic melts may be prevalent at high pressures," stated Kanani K.M. Leem an associate professor at Yale. Understanding The Earth's Magnetic Field The team claims that the study could offer a better understanding of the Earth's magnetic field, the planet's conditions back when it was still young, and how it evolved throughout history. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A couple in Mongolia have died of the bubonic plague after eating the raw kidney of a marmot, a type of rodent. The couple died on May 1 in Mongolia's western Bayan Olgii province, which borders China and Russia. The incident triggered a quarantine that left some foreign tourists stranded in the remote region. Folk Remedy For Good Health According to Ariuntuya Ochirpurev, of the World Health Organization in Ulaanbaatar, eating raw marmot meat and kidney is a folk remedy believed to help boost health. Authorities, however, have been warning people against eating raw marmot meat because it carries Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes the plague. Mormot is commonly associated with plague cases in Mongolia and hunting the large rodent is in fact illegal. Some, however, ignore these warnings over the belief that consuming the innards of the animal is good for their health. The Plague The plague killed millions of people during the Middle Ages. Humans commonly contract the plague when they are bitten by a flea carrying the plague bacterium, or when they handle animals infected with plague. Antibiotics are now available to effectively treat the illness but without prompt treatment, the disease can still cause serious illness or even death. Preventive measures may also be needed for those who were exposed to the disease. "People in close contact with very sick pneumonic plague patients may be evaluated and possibly placed under observation," the CDC said. "Preventive antibiotic therapy may also be given, depending on the type and timing of personal contact." Symptoms of the disease include nausea, weakness, high fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpit. It may be hard to identify in its early stages though since the symptoms develop after three days to seven days and are flu-like. Quarantine Ochirpurev said that 118 people had come into contact with the couple, but they were already isolated and treated with antibiotics for prophylaxis. Among these individuals were seven tourists from Switzerland, Sweden, Kazakhstan, and South Korea. "After the quarantine [was announced], not many people - even locals - were in the streets for fear of catching the disease," said American Peace Corps volunteer Sebastian Pique. The quarantine is expected to be lifted next week. 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. It's been weeks since the residents of North Olmsted, Ohio began finding their car key fobs had mysteriously stopped working, but now the residents finally know what happened. If the city had been a part of an X-Files episode or a Stephen King novel, the culprit would have been an outcast with psychic powers or an alien visitor. Instead, the powerful force messing with cars and garages has been traced to a local inventor who had no idea about the havoc he's caused. A Force Blocking Wireless Devices One day in late April, wireless garage door openers and car key fobs in North Olmsted suddenly began acting up or stopped functioning entirely. While an isolated case may have been understandable, the puzzling issues with these specific types of devices occurred in multiple neighborhoods across the suburban community. A number of residents report their fobs working elsewhere such as the supermarket and then mysteriously stop working upon getting back to North Olmsted. Given that the issue is plaguing so many of the locals, there have been many theories about what's causing it. Some speculate that the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport could be behind the malfunctioning devices, while others assumed the NASA facility a few miles away is at fault. Chris Glassburn, the North Olmsted city councilman, told WKYC that he initially believed that the issue stemmed from utility companies' equipment, but crews from both AT&T and First Energy checked out the city and confirmed that there were no problems with their utilities. Since wireless key fobs and garage openers are radio transmitters, Glassburn pointed out that something powerful must have been jamming their radio frequencies. Amateur and experienced investigators dropped by the North Olmsted to see if they can figure out the source of the issue, but although they all agreed that something must be blocking the radio frequencies, no one could figure out what it was. Mystery Solved Finally, Glassburn announced that city officials have finally discovered the source of the issue last Saturday, May 4. It turned out a local inventor put together a homemade battery-operated device designed to let him know whenever there's someone upstairs while he's working in his basement. The device alerted him by turning off a light. The unnamed resident did not know that his device was rendering car key fobs and garage openers all over the city useless. "The way he designed it, it was persistently putting out a 315 megahertz signal," Glassburn explained to New York Times, referring to a frequency that a lot of car fobs and garage door openers use. "There was no malicious intent of the device." 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Oakland is considering banning the use of facial recognition software by city departments, including police, a move that could make it one of the first cities in the country to issue a prohibition on the technology.Restricting use of the software is necessary, proponents say, because it poses human rights violations and privacy concerns, particularly for people of color.The San Francisco Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote Tuesday on a similar policy to ban the use of facial recognition technology and to require board approval for any departments purchasing new surveillance devices.Oaklands Privacy Advisory Commission voted unanimously last week to support a proposal that would ban the use of the software. Introduced by Chairman Brian Hofer and Commissioner Heather Patterson, the proposal would amend the citys current surveillance ordinance and prevent city departments from adopting any facial recognition technology and from using information obtained by the software.We have a right to be anonymous in public, to move about and freely associate, Hofer said. With facial recognition technology, those rights would be infringed. In the private sector, facial recognition software is being used very fast. We wanted to stop it before it gets out in the wild.The proposal is under review by the city attorney and administrator. It will be heard later this month at the Public Safety Committee. If the proposal is passed by the committee, it will be presented to the City Council as early as June.Johnna Watson, a spokesman for Oakland police, said the department does not use facial recognition software.Oakland currently has one of the strongest surveillance ordinances in the country. Passed in 2018, it requires that any proposal involving the use of surveillance be heard in a public discussion. City departments are required to produce annual reports on their surveillance technology.Sameena Usman, government relations coordinator at the Council on American-Islamic Relations in the San Francisco Bay Area, said the Muslim American community nationwide has been subjected to surveillance by law enforcement. lawsuit filed by the ACLU in 2010 forced the FBI to turn over more than 50,000 pages of documents that showed the federal agencys San Francisco agents had taken notes on the religious activities of Muslims from 2004 to 2010.Its important to eliminate the possibility that facial recognition software could be used, Usman said, to mend a fragmented relationship between law enforcement and the Muslim community.Communities of color, including the American Muslim community, have been concerned over surveillance and being able to practice our First Amendment right to practice our religion openly without having to be concerned of surveillance, she said. Weve seen surveillance in the past of our communities and while we have a robust surveillance ordinance (in Oakland), we want to ensure that facial recognition technology is not included among the technologies used by Oakland police.Council Member Noel Gallo said he would support the use of facial recognition software because Oakland police could use all the help they can get though he would not comment on the current proposal.In Oakland, we do have a good amount of crime, Gallo said. Its just a form of public safety since I dont have the police staffing necessary to protect our children and families. If you do the crime, you should also be clearly identified.But Council President Rebecca Kaplan said banning the technology sends an important message to residents that the city is working to prevent the use of any systems that could unjustly harm people. She said she would support legislation to ban facial recognition software because of its impact on communities of color.Facial recognition systems have been abused and also disproportionately incorrectly identify people of color, putting people at risk of false arrest, she said. study released in January 2018 by the M.I.T. Media Lab found that facial recognition software incorrectly identified up to 35 percent of darker-skinned women. In 2016, Georgetown University estimated that 117 million Americans were in law enforcement facial recognition databases. The study found police facial recognition technology disproportionately affects African Americans.These systems will not make us safer, said Matt Cagle, a technology and civil liberties attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California. By preventing the spread of facial surveillance technology, Oakland gives itself the opportunity to focus on real public safety solutions, like listening to the community, following their surveillance ordinance that requires a community conversation about public safety issues. This presents a real opportunity to work on those relationships.If the ban is passed by the City Council, the citys current surveillance ordinance would be amended to include the ban.The concern (with facial recognition) is so great that we are saying, Lets not do this. Lets not even go down this road, Hofer said. I went to a potluck/jam (as in music) party on the outskirts of Breaux Bridge last week. From what I understand, its a traditional gathering the Thursday before the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. Speaking of which, BBCF dodged an ICBM of a bullet Saturday as an early morning storm blustered and bullied its way through town with snarling wind, waves of rain and frightening lightning only to depart leaving a beaming sun behind partly cloudy skies and a breeze to dance on. But about that party. Youre probably familiar with the six degrees of separation theory, right? Its the theory that anyone on the planet can be connected to another through a chain of folks no more than five people long. I met Lou Farrow, who is from Grand Junction, Colorado. He and Amanda Bailey, both fine musicians, are in town for Balfa Week. I told Lou Id lived in Telluride, Colorado, and in the course of the conversation Id mentioned Art Goodtimes, a columnist I used to work with at the defunct Telluride Times-Journal. Lou said he didnt, but Amanda knew Art. Can you believe? What are the chances? So I walked up to Amanda and said something to the effect of Art Goodtimes said hello. She responded with was one of those, "You know Art?" things. I quickly told her that Id made up the part that he said hello, but the truth was Art and I are friends and worked together in the late '80s and early '90s in Telluride. So we chatted a bit about all of that. Ive got to say, just talking about Art and Colorado put a smile on my face. Shortly thereafter I met Karen Holden from Madison, Wisconsin. Giddy with the last six degrees theory incident, I asked her if she knew Katie M., a long lost friend whos also from Madison. Alas, she did not. Bummed, though not bummed out, we chatted about music, dancing, Louisiana and Wisconsin and of course, the Green Bay Packers, my favorite team since I was a kid (Of course, the New Orleans Saints are right there, too, when they dont play the Packers). Then it occurred to me to ask her if she knew friends of mine from Appleton, Wisconsin, Rick and Becky. And while I didnt have their last name on my tongue, Karen did Krumwiede because she knew them through the Cajun music and dance scene up in Madison. What?! Yeah, said Rick over the phone. Well go two hours for a two-hour Cajun dance because thats the only one around. And thats where they met Karen where a Wisconsin Cajun band, Cajun Strangers, put them on every month at a bar, Rick said. Theyve been doing that for several years. For five years now, Rick and Becky visit the area twice a year. Theyll stay at a bed and breakfast across the street from me in February for six weeks. Then they return in October for Festivals Acadiens et Creoles. Before they returned home in March, Rick showed me a photo of their home his neighbor recently sent. Snow was up to the bottom of the mailbox. Yep, the dead of winter is an excellent time to get out of Wisconsin and head down to the subtropics. I think we both agree its the weather, its the food, its the music, its the dancing, said Rick over the speakerphone. Probably not in that order, Becky interjected. Its probably the music and dancing first. And then, more recently said Rick. The people. Weve gotten to know more people. All good reasons. Ill have more on Rick and Becky in the future. Id called them about Karen and learned a lot more that Id like to share. Anyway, between Lou, Amanda, Art, Karen, Rick and Becky, the common denominator that brings them here are all found in our very own living and breathing Cajun and Creole cultures of south Louisiana. They come here because they can see the forest for the trees. Oh, and about that six degrees of separation thing with Lou and Amanda and Art, and Karen and Rick and Becky: We narrowed it down to one degree. Richardson, Texas, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Intrusion Inc. (OTCQB: INTZ), (Intrusion) will announce first quarter 2019 financial results on Monday, May 13, 2019. The press release will be published over the wire services after the market closes. The release will also be available on the companys web site at www.intrusion.com. Intrusion management will review the Companys financial and operational progress for the first quarter 2019 during a conference call later that day at 4:00 P.M., CDT. Interested investors can access the call at 1-877-258-4925 (outside the United States, please dial 1-973-500-2152) at 4:00 P.M., CDT. For those unable to participate in the live conference call, a replay will be accessible beginning May 13, 2019 at approximately 7:00 P.M., CDT until May 20, 2019 by calling 1-855-859-2056 (if outside the United States, 1-404-537-3406). At the replay prompt, enter conference identification number 4269625. In addition, a live and archived audio webcast of the conference call will be available at www.intrusion.com. About Intrusion Inc. Intrusion Inc. is a global provider of entity identification, high speed data mining, cybercrime and advanced persistent threat detection products. Intrusions product families include TraceCop for identity discovery and disclosure, and Savant for network data mining and advanced persistent threat detection. Intrusions products help protect critical information assets by quickly detecting, protecting, analyzing and reporting attacks or misuse of classified, private and regulated information for government and enterprise networks. For more information, please visit www.intrusion.com. We develop, market and support a family of entity identification, high speed data mining, cybercrime and advanced persistent threat detection products. Purchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission Baton Rouge student is one of three from LSU to earn Goldwater Scholarships Baton Rouges police chief, mayor and a handful of local lawmakers are asking the Louisiana Legislature to change the Baton Rouge Police Departments system for promoting officers, which currently relies almost solely on seniority to decide which officers move up the ranks. House Bill 438, would allow BRPDs top brass to consider a range of qualifications while evaluating the five longest-serving officers for a vacancy or promotion. Under the current system, promotions to most posts within the department automatically go to the most senior officer who passed a qualifying exam for the rank, regardless of their exam score or accomplishments. State lawmakers have to approve these proposed changes because that promotional system which also applies to most other police departments in Louisiana is spelled out by state civil service law. The tweaks in the bill, sponsored by state Rep. Ted James, would only apply to BRPD. James, a Baton Rouge Democrat, crafted the legislation with the support of Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul and East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome. +2 $21M needed annually to bring underpaid Baton Rouge police in line with peers; funding source unclear A long-awaited pay study released Wednesday confirms what cops and Baton Rouge Police leaders have said for years: City officers are severely "I think this a great bill you have, Rep. James," said Rep. C. Denise Marcelle, also a Baton Rouge Democrat, during a hearing on the measure Wednesday morning. "It allows the chief to look at a number of employees for promotion." Lawmakers on the House Municipal, Parochial and Cultural Affairs Committee signed off on the bill without objection Wednesday morning, sending it to the House floor for debate. But some union officials came out against the changes. "This legislation does way too many things, it's way too problematic," said Chris Stewart, a former BRPD officer and past president of Baton Rouge Union of Police Local 237 who now represents the International Union of Police Associations, to which Local 237 belongs. "This is going to affect people's careers and livelihoods." Stewart said he was also worried about the precedent it could set statewide for police and fire departments, which all operate under state civil service law to govern hiring and promotions. Union officials from the AFL-CIO, the Fraternal Order of Police and a group representing firefighters also turned out in opposition to the changes but didnt speak at the hearing. But later in the day, Baton Rouge Union of Police President Sgt. Bryan Taylor clarified that the union does support, in theory, changes to improve promotional practices, like increasing competition and incentivizing quality work. Their concern comes over the specifics of this bill, as well as its speed moving forward. We are in favor of having dialogue in reference to doing something to the promotional system to where we can promote the most qualified candidate, Taylor said in an interview with The Advocate Wednesday afternoon. We all want the best supervisor. (But) because its such a big change, we want buy in from all of our members. I think this is a long-term process. Taylor said he would like to see the bill include safeguards for officers after a promotion, like an appeal system to protect against discrimination in promotions. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up "There's been no lengthy discussion," Taylor said. He said their meetings with BRPD top brass about the measure have not been detailed. James was shocked union representatives felt there weren't enough meetings. He said he and Paul have met and reached out for input multiple times, which even led to amendments adopted on Wednesday. +20 How Baton Rouge police chief focused on tech, community to make impact in first year leading the agency Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul buzzed briskly around the skeleton of a room on the second floor of the departments headquarters on Airl However, a representative from the Magnolia State Peace Officers Association, a statewide organization for black police officers, offered support for the measure. We are totally for the changes in the promotional process because over time weve seen a lack of a more professional promotional process that has caused our department to deteriorate," said Walter Griffin, a BRPD homicide detective and the first vice president for the Capital-area chapter of the Magnolia State Peace Officers. Paul, the Baton Rouge Police chief, told The Advocate after the hearing that seniority would still be heavily weighted with our system but this tweak would help create a better-prepared, more professional department. Only getting promoted because of seniority is not the best way to promote and recognize the talent within your organization, Paul said. I dont think theres any business in America today ... that uses that type of promotional process. Broome called the changes common sense in a letter to lawmakers. Baton Rouge Councilman Lamont Cole told lawmakers that rank-and-file BRPD officers suffer from a lack of development because some supervisors are promoted into posts without being ready or willing to take on leadership responsibilities. Civil service law was created to eliminate cronyism or favoritism in the promotional process for governmental jobs, but James and other critics of the current system have argued it allows poorly qualified or problematic cops to stay in the system and continue to be promoted, while slowing the careers of promising newer officers. James has sponsored a few other bills in recent years trying to change aspects of civil service law to give Baton Rouge leaders more discretion in hiring and promotion of officers, but theyve died in the state Legislature. The change presented this session, if passed, could give the chief of police more opportunities to promote minorities and women, which could help the department move closer to being cleared of a decades-old federal consent decree. Paul has called lifting that consent decree a goal for his administration. The consent decree has monitored, since 1980, how the department hires and promotes women and minorities. Recent data shows the agency is still far from representative of the city, with numbers even worse in the agency's higher ranks. Only 22 percent of those officers with a rank of sergeant or higher were black and only 5 percent were women, according to BRPD data sent to the Department of Justice last summer. The city's population is about half African-American. WASHINGTON Members of the House Judiciary Committee voted along party lines Wednesday to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress, with two Louisiana congressmen illustrating the escalating partisan battle between Democrats and Republicans over access to a report produced after a two-year investigation into the 2016 election. The committee voted 24-16 to hold Barr in contempt for not turning over the subpoenaed special prosecutor's report. The resolution, adopted at the end of a daylong hearing, now heads to the full House, controlled by Democrats, and could ultimately set off a contentious court battle with the Trump administration. U.S. Sen. John Kennedy suggests FBI, DOJ files on 2016 election be made public WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. John Kennedy has called on the Trump administration to release all FBI and Justice Department documents related to the Rep. Cedric Richmond, a New Orleans Democrat who is assistant to the House majority whip, voted in favor of the resolution. Rep. Mike Johnson, a Shreveport Republican who chairs the conservative Republican Study Committee, voted against. Both members from Louisiana took time during the hearing to lob complaints about the opposing party, similarly arguing that the fight is being driven solely by politics even though they fall on opposite sides of the aisle. The other side would have us congratulate them for telling 92% of the story, Richmond said, adding that he wished he had been given that same standard as a child. I would leave all the bad deeds, lies and crimes in the 8% that I dont tell." Johnson said: The majority isnt interested in pursuing this for any legitimate purpose. This is about scoring political points. Just hours before the vote, President Donald Trump invoked executive privilege in an effort to block lawmakers from the full report on special investigator Robert Mueller's probe of Russian interference to help Trump in the 2016 election. Executive privilege is the president's power to keep information from the courts, Congress and the public to protect the confidentiality of the Oval Office decision-making process. Mueller report reveals President Trump's efforts on Russia probe; see copy of report Robert Mueller's report reveals President Donald Trump's efforts to seize control of the Russia probe and force the special counsel's removal. Richmond, the only Democrat in the Louisiana delegation and a former chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, vowed the Democratic majority in the chamber will continue its efforts to investigate and challenge Trump's administration. It will be messy, he said. It will be that way sometimes, but the fight is necessary to protect this great country. Johnson, meanwhile, echoed his colleagues and a letter Barr wrote to the president, arguing that the attorney general couldnt legally comply with the subpoena because of ongoing investigations and protected information. (Committee Chair Jerrold Nadler, D-New York) knows his rational for demanding the full unredacted report is wholly unfounded, Johnson said. The scoop on state politics in your inbox Get the Louisiana politics insider details once a week from us. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Democrats on the panel argued that Congress faces an historic juncture as it confronts what they consider Trump's stonewalling of lawmakers' ability to conduct oversight of the administration, while Republicans have been eager to move on from the Russian probe since Mueller's redacted report was released in April. Nearly half the pages in the Mueller report contain some type of redaction, including those that address the Russian influence campaign, presidential pardons and other topics. Mueller, in his report, said he could not establish a criminal conspiracy between the Trump campaign and Russia, but he did not directly address whether the president obstructed justice. Barr said he and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein decided there were not grounds to charge Trump with obstruction. Barr, prompted by a disagreement over Democrats' insistence that he answer questions from staff counsel in addition to House members, has refused to attend a House Judiciary hearing. The contempt resolution deals only with the subpoenaed document and is not linked to his absence from the hearing. Nadler said the Trump administration's refusal to provide the special counsel's full Russia report to Congress presents a "constitutional crisis." In a letter Wednesday to Trump, Barr explained that the special counsel's files contain millions of pages of classified and unclassified information. He said it was the committee's "abrupt resort to a contempt vote" that "has not allowed sufficient time for you to consider fully whether to make a conclusive assertion of executive privilege." Johnson repeatedly returned to those points during Wednesday's hearing and said he thinks Barr has been "completely transparent," despite Democrats claims that the attorney general misled Congress about the contents of Mueller's report. This entire charade today was premature and unwarranted," Johnson said. Richmond, who is supporting former Vice President Joe Biden's presidential campaign, recently declared on national television that his "sole focus" right now is on making sure that President Donald Trump doesn't win a second term in office. Let's just look at the orbit around this administration and see how fake (the investigation) is," Richmond said. This is not a witch hunt. If it looks like obstruction, sounds like obstruction, smells like obstruction, its obstruction. During the House GOP leaders' news briefing, U.S. House Minority Whip Steve Scalise, R-Jefferson, accused Democratic leaders of holding a "kangaroo court" in the Judiciary hearing. Why dont they focus on the business of the American people? Why dont they focus on things in the Judiciary Committee like solving the border crisis?" Scalise said. "We dont have a secure border and we need to address those kinds of problems instead of what were seeing out of Chairman Nadler and Speaker (Nancy) Pelosis other liberal lieutenants. The Associated Press contributed to this report. WASHINGTON There may be no better example of flaws in the Corps of Engineers "piecemeal" approach to funding flood and other severe weather prevention projects than the hurricane protection system around the city of New Orleans, Louisiana's coastal chief told a panel of U.S. senators on Wednesday. The project was initially authorized in the 1950s but was still not completed when Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority chairman Chip Kline told the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. +9 New Orleans levees rated 'high risk'; here's what drives designation, despite system's high marks Billions of dollars have been spent since Hurricane Katrina to upgrade the ring of levees, floodwalls and pumping stations designed to reduce Thousands of people lost their lives, livelihoods were destroyed because of that piecemeal approach," Kline testified. If full funding was appropriated on the front end, you and I would probably not be having this conversation right now." The process by which the federal government funds these projects is flawed," Kline added. Kline was invited to the hearing as part of a panel to provide insight into the $4.8 billion Army Civil Works program, how the federal government can better work with states and local communities and how more consistent funding from Congress could impact mitigation projects moving forward. Congress seems to give the Corps more work to do than resources, said Sen. Tom Carper, a Delaware Democrat who is the ranking member of the committee. Then a storm hits and the federal government has to spend large amounts of money over and over again. +3 Officials break ground on Comite River Diversion Canal after 30-plus years of planning People still ask Bodi White if he thinks the Comite River Diversion Canal is really going to happen. Neither of Louisiana's U.S. senators is on the committee, but the state is all-too-familiar with the cycle Carper described. The scoop on state politics in your inbox Get the Louisiana politics insider details once a week from us. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Officials broke ground on the Corps-backed Comite River Diversion Canal last month after more than 30 years of planning. Catastrophic flooding in the region in 2016 prompted an aggressive push to get the project completed. "Louisiana is a flood-prone state. We recognize this," Kline said in his opening remarks. "Louisiana is also home to vitally important assets and resources that provide value not just to the Gulf Coast, but to the entire nation." R.D. James became assistant secretary of the Army for Civil Works about 15 months ago. Since I received my assignment, Ive had one mission: Move dirt," he told the committee. The intention is to start, continue and finish projects in a more timely and efficient way to ensure a better return on the taxpayers investment and better the lives of Americans. It's unclear what changes could be in store for the Corps as Congress evaluates the program. Several regions of the United States have experienced record flooding in recent years. The National Weather Service has recorded 43-flood-related deaths in 2019 alone, including three in Louisiana. This years flood season has challenged many federal and state agencies and local communities across the nation," James said. Carper said he would like to see a "more holistic" approach to mitigation and resiliency projects, which are often determined on a cost-benefit ratio that doesn't factor in impact on smaller and more rural communities, he noted. "Climate change does impact blue states and red states alike," he said. A Senate committee Tuesday advanced legislation that would call for a statewide vote on abortion with the aim of keeping state judges from allowing abortions if Roe v Wade is overturned on the federal level. If the 1973 decision that makes legal the procedure that terminates pregnancies overruled by the U.S. Supreme Court, the decision reverts back to the states. State law already says that if given the choice by federal authorities, abortion would be illegal in Louisiana. House Bill 425 would ask state voters to approve an abortion ban, which would preclude any courts from overturning the state law, said state Rep. Katrina Jackson, the Monroe Democrat who is sponsoring the measure. HB425 was approved by Senate Judiciary A committee without objection. It now goes to the full Senate where it is expected to exceed the two-thirds majority needed. A wording change Jackson applied to ensure voters arent confused that the vote is on exceptions like women who are raped or to save the life of the mother, means the legislation must return to the House for a final vote. Louisiana House to debate constitutional measure on abortion Louisiana voters would decide whether to amend the state constitution to say it doesn't protect abortion rights, if lawmakers back a proposal The scoop on state politics in your inbox Get the Louisiana politics insider details once a week from us. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up We are not voting on whether abortion is legal, Jackson said. We are voting to say there is no right (to an abortion) in the Louisiana Constitution. This is needed because the abortion industry would go into the Louisiana Supreme Court arguing that there is nothing about abortion in state Constitution, said Dorinda C. Bordlee, senior counsel of Bioethics Defense Fund. This very simple amendment closes the door to judicial activism. The Kansas Supreme Court two weeks ago found that abortions were legal in that state because it was not expressly forbidden in state law. New Orleans attorney Ellie Schilling, who opposed the bill, said Louisiana already has some of the strictest restrictions to abortions in the country. She is concerned that the bill would enshrine in the state Constitution that there is no right to abortions without exception. This bill makes no provisions for rape, incest and life of mother, she said. Louisiana Senate advances proposal to ban abortions after heartbeat detected, sending it to House The Louisiana Senate advanced Monday one of the strictest bans on abortion in the nation at roughly six weeks when a fetal heartbeat is detected. This might be the most significant and monumental piece of legislation that I will have the opportunity to vote for in this term, said state Sen. John Milkovich, D-Shreveport, whose bill to ban abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, often only six weeks into a pregnancy, overwhelming passed the Senate Monday. We live in an age of skepticism, but there is more and more danger from people who believe misinformation on social media, particularly when it comes to vaccinations. Is everybodys opinion worthwhile? Not when it there is no evidence for it whatsoever, as with the myth that vaccines for common childhood diseases cause autism. Is everybodys religious conviction sacrosanct in civil society? Not when it endangers children, and not a few adults, as with a religious exemption from getting vaccinations before school starts. A tall earnest young physician named Alex Billioux is the states chief public health officer. The poor guy had to stand before the Press Club of Baton Rouge to address the can of publicity worms opened by state Sen. John Milkovich, D-Shreveport, who spouted off in the Senate about the evils of vaccinations. The evidence is all against Milkovich and all for Billioux. Louisiana senator links vaccines, autism on Senate floor; officials say 'myth' causes measles resurgence A sitting Louisiana legislator linked vaccines to autism on the floor of the State Senate Monday, perpetuating a long-debunked theory on which Vaccines are safe. Given the high rate of vaccinations in Louisiana with few exceptions, students are required to have them before going to school our state is protected even as more than 20 states that now have reports of measles. If anything, children should be vaccinated earlier than when they start school, Billioux said. The measles outbreaks nationally are the biggest in years. Fortunately, Billioux said, only two cases were reported in Louisiana in 2018, both from people coming from abroad. But with measles cases growing internationally, Louisiana children still need vaccinations; the young are vulnerable to life-threatening consequences. The old and those with impaired immune systems, such as chemotherapy patients, are also particularly vulnerable. Billioux and the Louisiana Department of Health are doing a good job of combating the myths, though always with careful respect for the opinions of parents. But the vaccine hysteria is only one part of a damaging and disturbing trend in American society: special rights based on beliefs, including statements of religious faith, that endanger others in society. Louisiana health official concerned about anti-vaxxers amid measles outbreak One of the state's top health officials says he's concerned about the growing number of Louisianians rejecting vaccinations for their children Louisiana does allow parents to seek exemptions from vaccinations, either for health reasons or religious belief. Whats wrong with that? The number of unvaccinated children is growing, albeit slowly, and the virulently contagious measles virus is thus a growing threat if not from local sources, from travelers from abroad. What ought to be of concern to the law-abiding is a broad notion pushed by Milkovich and his ilk that religious belief untested, unapproved, undetectable by another soul is a blanket exemption from the laws and ordinary morality of people living together in a society. No stranger to pandering, President Donald Trump has abandoned his earlier embrace of the anti-vaccination fringe. He urges parents to get children vaccinated. Should public school children be exposed to entirely avoidable risks because of a vague religious exemption? In many cases, as in discrimination laws, business owners must establish to somebody either a court or civil authority of some other kind that their violation of the law is based on a sincere and deeply held religious belief, applied in specific circumstances. Stretching the U.S. Constitutions protection of freedom of religion into a blanket exemption that threatens childrens health does not make a lot of sense. The good news is that measles and other childhood diseases can be beaten by science. The bad news is that the viruses may be resurrected by ignorance. Email Lanny Keller at lkeller@theadvocate.com. HOUSTON, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Contango Oil & Gas Company (NYSE American: MCF) (Contango or the Company) announced today its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019 and provided an operational update. First Quarter Highlights Production of 3.2 Bcfe for the quarter, or 35.9 Mmcfed, within guidance Net loss of $8.6 million and Adjusted EBITDAX, on a recurring basis, of $5.4 million for the quarter 24% increase in West Texas crude oil production 26% decrease in general and administrative (G&A) costs for the quarter, or a 36% decrease when excluding non-cash stock-based compensation and non-recurring items described below Spud our Iron Snake #1H well in Pecos County, TX in the Southern Delaware Basin Management Commentary Wilkie S. Colyer, the Companys President and Chief Executive Officer, said We are excited to once again be drilling. The Iron Snake #1H is the first well drilled in NE Bullseye, the portion of our Southern Delaware Basin acreage that we acquired in December of last year. We expect to drill a total of three wells this year in that new area, and one in our legacy Bullseye acreage. We will complete those and the Ripper State #2H well drilled in 2018, thereby adding five wells to our production base in the second half of the year. As previously disclosed, during this period of commodity price instability, we will limit our capital expenditures to those necessary to meet leasehold obligations and focus on keeping our leverage at a manageable level. Summary First Quarter Financial Results Net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was $8.6 million, or ($0.26) per basic and diluted share, compared to net income of $0.9 million, or $0.04 per basic and diluted share, for the prior years quarter, which was positively impacted by a $9.4 million gain on sale of assets. The current quarter was negatively impacted by lower revenues due to lower production and lower crude oil and natural gas liquids prices as well as a larger reduction in the mark-to-market value of our outstanding derivatives. Partially offsetting those quarterly declines were lower operating expenses, lower depreciation, depletion, and amortization (DD&A) expense and lower impairment expenses in the current year quarter. Average weighted shares outstanding were approximately 33.8 million and 24.8 million for the current and prior year quarters, respectively. The Company reported Adjusted EBITDAX, as defined below and on a recurring basis, of approximately $5.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to $8.3 million for the same period last year, a decrease attributable primarily to lower revenues. Cash flow for the current quarter was $4.4 million, or $0.13 per share, compared to $6.9 million, or $0.28 per share for the prior years quarter. Revenues for the current quarter were approximately $14.0 million compared to $20.4 million for the prior years quarter, a decrease attributable to lower production during the current quarter and a 19% and 17% decrease in crude oil and natural gas liquids prices, respectively. Production for the first quarter of 2019 was approximately 3.2 Bcfe, or 35.9 Mmcfe per day, within our previously provided guidance, compared to 50.0 Mmcfe per day for the first quarter of 2018. This expected year over year decline in equivalent production volumes was attributable in part to non-core asset sales in 2018 (approximately 8.7 Mmcfed for the 2018 quarter) and in part to higher than normal field decline due to a reduced capital program in the latter half of 2018 and the first quarter of 2019. Partially mitigating those decreases was the fact that the percentage of production from higher-value oil and natural gas liquids increased from 35% to 41% in the current year quarter. As the year progresses, that percentage should continue to increase due to our oil-weighted drilling program that we commenced in March 2019 with the spudding of the Iron Snake #1H. Crude oil and natural gas liquids production during the first quarter of 2019 was approximately 2,500 barrels per day, compared to approximately 3,000 barrels per day in the first quarter of 2018, a decline attributable in large part to the non-core asset sales. Our production guidance for the second quarter of 2019 is expected to be between 30 and 35 Mmcfed, a sequential decline as completion operations, and the subsequent commencement of production, on the wells currently being drilled in the Southern Delaware Basin are not expected to begin until the third quarter. As a result of our current plans to complete and bring to production five wells during the second half of the year, we expect quarterly production to show improvement after the second quarter. The weighted average equivalent sales price during the three months ended March 31, 2019 was $4.33 per Mcfe, compared to $4.53 per Mcfe for the same period last year, as we experienced decreases of 19% and 17% in crude oil and natural gas liquids prices, respectively, compared to a 1% increase in natural gas prices. Operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2019 were approximately $5.2 million, or $1.60 per Mcfe and within our previously provided guidance, compared to $6.9 million, or $1.54 per Mcfe, for the same period last year. Included in operating expenses are direct lease operating expenses, transportation and processing costs, workover expenses and production and ad valorem taxes. Operating expenses exclusive of production and ad valorem taxes were approximately $4.8 million, or $1.49 per Mcfe, for the current quarter, compared to approximately $6.1 million, or $1.37 per Mcfe, for the prior years quarter, a decrease primarily attributable to the asset sales. Our guidance for operating expenses for the second quarter of 2019, exclusive of production and ad valorem taxes, is between $4.7 and $5.3 million, which is consistent with the current quarter. DD&A expense for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was $7.6 million, or $2.34 per Mcfe, compared to $10.5 million, or $2.33 per Mcfe, for the prior years quarter, a decrease attributable to lower production during the quarter. Impairment and abandonment expense was $0.6 million for the current quarter, including approximately $0.5 million related to the impairment of certain non-core unproved properties primarily due to expiring leases. Total G&A expenses were $5.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019, compared to $6.7 million for the prior years quarter. Recurring cash G&A expenses (defined as G&A expenses exclusive of stock compensation expense of $1.1 million and non-recurring strategic advisory fees of $0.6 million) were $3.3 million, or $1.04 per Mcfe for the current quarter, and below our previously provided guidance, compared to $5.3 million, or $1.18 per Mcfe for the prior years quarter, an approximate 36% decline. The decrease relates primarily to $1.9 million in lower salaries and bonus expense during the current quarter due to a smaller administrative workforce. For the second quarter of 2019, we have provided guidance of $3.5 to $4.0 million for cash general and administrative expenses. Gain from affiliates (i.e., Exaro Energy III) for the three months ended March 31, 2019 was approximately $0.3 million, compared to a gain of $0.7 million for the same period last year. 2019 Capital Program Capital costs incurred for the three months ended March 31, 2019 were approximately $2.8 million, including $0.9 million for commencement of our drilling program in the Southern Delaware Basin in Pecos County, Texas. Our capital expenditure budget for 2019 has not changed since the previous announcement and is forecasted to be approximately $30.3 million, including $28.4 million in the Southern Delaware Basin. As of March 31, 2019, we had approximately $65.6 million of debt outstanding under our credit facility, with $22.6 million of availability. The borrowing base under our credit facility is currently $90.0 million. We are currently working with our bank group on determining the level of borrowing base for the period through the October 1, 2019 maturity. We are also continuing to pursue a refinancing of our credit facility and expect to have that done prior to its maturity. Drilling Activity Update Our recent Southern Delaware Basin activity consists of the following: Iron Snake #1H The Iron Snake #1H (50% WI, 37.5% NRI), targeting the Wolfcamp B formation, was spud in March 2019. The well was drilled to a total measured depth of 20,511 feet, including a 10,112 foot lateral. In order to coordinate the completion of production infrastructure required to be built in this portion of our acreage with the commencement of production, completion operations are expected to begin in August 2019 with first production expected in October 2019. American Hornet #1H The American Hornet #1H (49.9% WI, 39.6% NRI), targeting the Wolfcamp A formation, was spud in April 2019. The well is expected to be drilled to a total measured depth of 20,100 feet, including a 10,000 foot lateral, with production expected to begin in September 2019. For the remainder of the year, our capital expenditure budget calls for us to drill two more Southern Delaware wells after the American Hornet and complete a total of five wells, with the next well to be the Breakthrough State #1H. This well will target the Wolfcamp A formation and is expected to be spud in May 2019. Derivative Instruments As of March 31, 2019, we had the following financial derivative contracts in place with members of our bank group. These contracts represent approximately 66% of our currently forecasted remaining 2019 proved developed reserves (PDP) natural gas production and 70% of our currently forecasted remaining 2019 PDP crude oil production. Commodity Period Derivative Volume/Month Price/Unit Natural Gas April 2019 - July 2019 Swap 600,000 MMBtus $ 2.75 (1) Natural Gas Aug 2019 - Oct 2019 Swap 100,000 MMBtus $ 2.75 (1) Natural Gas Nov 2019 - Dec 2019 Swap 500,000 MMBtus $ 2.75 (1) Oil April 2019 - Dec 2019 Collar 7,000 Bbls $ 50.00 - 58.00 (2) Oil April 2019 - Dec 2019 Collar 4,000 Bbls $ 52.00 - 59.45 (3) Oil April 2019 - June 2019 Collar 12,000 Bbls $ 70.00 - 76.25 (3) Oil April 2019 - July 2019 Swap 6,000 Bbls $ 66.10 (3) Oil July 2019 Swap 12,000 Bbls $ 72.10 (3) Oil Aug 2019 - Oct 2019 Swap 9,000 Bbls $ 72.10 (3) Oil Nov 2019 - Dec 2019 Swap 12,000 Bbls $ 72.10 (3) Based on Henry Hub NYMEX natural gas prices. Based on Argus Louisiana Light Sweet crude oil prices. Based on West Texas Intermediate crude oil prices. In May 2019, the Company entered into the following additional financial derivative contracts with a third-party counterparty under an unsecured line of credit with no margin call provisions: Commodity Period Derivative Volume/Month Price/Unit Natural Gas Jan 2020 - March 2020 Swap 425,000 MMBtus $ 2.84 (1) Natural Gas April 2020 - July 2020 Swap 400,000 MMBtus $ 2.53 (1) Natural Gas Aug 2020 - Oct 2020 Swap 40,000 MMBtus $ 2.53 (1) Natural Gas Nov 2020 - Dec 2020 Swap 375,000 MMBtus $ 2.70 (1) Oil May 2019 - Dec 2019 Swap 2,400 Bbls $ 61.72 (2) Oil Jan 2020 - June 2020 Swap 22,000 Bbls $ 57.74 (2) Oil July 2020 - Dec 2020 Swap 15,000 Bbls $ 57.74 (2) Based on Henry Hub NYMEX natural gas prices. Based on West Texas Intermediate crude oil prices. In May 2019, the Company also entered into a costless swap agreement with a Mid-Cushing oil differential swap price of $0.05 per barrel of crude oil. The agreement fixes the Companys exposure to that differential on 12,000 barrels of crude oil per month for January 2020 through June 2020 and 10,000 barrels per month for July 2020 through December 2020. Selected Financial and Operating Data The following table reflects certain comparative financial and operating data for the three months ended March 31, 2019 and 2018: Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 % Offshore Volumes Sold: Oil and condensate (Mbbls) 13 19 -32 % Natural gas (Mmcf) 1,635 2,296 -29 % Natural gas liquids (Mbbls) 66 78 -15 % Natural gas equivalents (Mmcfe) 2,111 2,877 -27 % Onshore Volumes Sold: Oil and condensate (Mbbls) 112 121 -7 % Natural gas (Mmcf) 258 617 -58 % Natural gas liquids (Mbbls) 32 47 -32 % Natural gas equivalents (Mmcfe) 1,124 1,627 -31 % Total Volumes Sold: Oil and condensate (Mbbls) 125 140 -11 % Natural gas (Mmcf) 1,893 2,913 -35 % Natural gas liquids (Mbbls) 98 125 -22 % Natural gas equivalents (Mmcfe) 3,235 4,504 -28 % Daily Sales Volumes: Oil and condensate (Mbbls) 1.4 1.6 -11 % Natural gas (Mmcf) 21.0 32.4 -35 % Natural gas liquids (Mbbls) 1.1 1.4 -22 % Natural gas equivalents (Mmcfe) 35.9 50.0 -28 % Average sales prices: Oil and condensate (per Bbl) $ 51.08 $ 62.76 -19 % Natural gas (per Mcf) $ 2.98 $ 2.96 1 % Natural gas liquids (per Bbl) $ 19.96 $ 23.97 -17 % Total (per Mcfe) $ 4.33 $ 4.53 -4 % Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 % Offshore Selected Costs ($ per Mcfe) Lease operating expenses (1) $ 0.74 $ 0.82 -10 % Production and ad valorem taxes $ 0.07 $ 0.07 0 % Onshore Selected Costs ($ per Mcfe) Lease operating expenses (1) $ 2.89 $ 2.33 24 % Production and ad valorem taxes $ 0.21 $ 0.36 -42 % Average Selected Costs ($ per Mcfe) Lease operating expenses (1) $ 1.49 $ 1.37 9 % Production and ad valorem taxes $ 0.12 $ 0.17 -29 % General and administrative expense (cash) $ 1.22 $ 1.18 3 % Interest expense $ 0.34 $ 0.31 10 % Adjusted EBITDAX (2) (thousands) $ 5,444 $ 8,344 Weighted Average Shares Outstanding (thousands) Basic 33,770 24,793 Diluted 33,770 24,841 LOE includes transportation and workover expenses. Adjusted EBITDAX is a non-GAAP financial measure. See below for reconciliation to net income. CONTANGO OIL & GAS COMPANY CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands) March 31, December 31, 2019 2018 ASSETS (unaudited) Cash and cash equivalents $ $ Accounts receivable, net 11,530 11,531 Other current assets 1,951 5,903 Net property and equipment 228,146 233,174 Investment in affiliates and other non-current assets 6,405 6,524 TOTAL ASSETS $ 248,032 $ 257,132 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 32,188 39,506 Current portion of long-term debt 65,552 60,000 Other current liabilities 2,212 1,751 Long-term debt Asset retirement obligations 12,108 12,168 Other non-current liabilities 3,421 3,318 Total shareholders equity 132,551 140,389 TOTAL LIABILITIES & SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY $ 248,032 $ 257,132 CONTANGO OIL & GAS COMPANY CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (in thousands) Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 (unaudited) REVENUES Oil and condensate sales $ 6,406 $ 8,811 Natural gas sales 5,642 8,609 Natural gas liquids sales 1,963 3,017 Total revenues 14,011 20,437 EXPENSES Operating expenses 5,192 6,927 Exploration expenses 224 469 Depreciation, depletion and amortization 7,556 10,485 Impairment and abandonment of oil and gas properties 587 3,327 General and administrative expenses 5,005 6,726 Total expenses 18,564 27,934 OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE) Gain from investment in affiliates, net of income taxes 30 707 Gain (loss) from sale of assets (12 ) 9,447 Interest expense (1,092 ) (1,409 ) Loss on derivatives, net (2,878 ) (1,032 ) Other income (expense) (86 ) 879 Total other income (expense) (4,038 ) 8,592 NET INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES (8,591 ) 1,095 Income tax provision (27 ) (158 ) NET INCOME (LOSS) $ (8,618 ) $ 937 Non-GAAP Financial Measures This news release includes certain non-GAAP financial information as defined by Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules. Pursuant to SEC requirements, reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) are included in this press release. Adjusted EBITDAX represents net income (loss) before interest expense, taxes, depreciation, depletion and amortization, and oil and gas exploration expenses (EBITDAX) as further adjusted to reflect the items set forth in the table below and is a measure required to be used in determining our compliance with financial covenants under our credit facility. We have included Adjusted EBITDAX in this release to provide investors with a supplemental measure of our operating performance and information about the calculation of some of the financial covenants that are contained in our credit agreement. We believe Adjusted EBITDAX is an important supplemental measure of operating performance because it eliminates items that have less bearing on our operating performance and therefore highlights trends in our core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on GAAP financial measures. We also believe that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use Adjusted EBITDAX in the evaluation of companies, many of which present Adjusted EBITDAX when reporting their results. Adjusted EBITDAX is a material component of the covenants that are imposed on us by our credit agreement. We are subject to financial covenant ratios that are calculated by reference to Adjusted EBITDAX. Non-compliance with the financial covenants contained in our credit agreement could result in a default, an acceleration in the repayment of amounts outstanding and a termination of lending commitments. Our management and external users of our financial statements, such as investors, commercial banks, research analysts and others, also use Adjusted EBITDAX to assess: the financial performance of our assets without regard to financing methods, capital structure or historical cost basis; the ability of our assets to generate cash sufficient to pay interest costs and support our indebtedness; our operating performance and return on capital as compared to those of other companies in our industry, without regard to financing or capital structure; and the feasibility of acquisitions and capital expenditure projects and the overall rates of return on alternative investment opportunities. The following table reconciles net income to EBITDAX and Adjusted EBITDAX for the periods presented: Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 2018 (in thousands) Net income (loss) $ (8,618 ) $ 937 Interest expense 1,092 1,409 Income tax provision 27 158 Depreciation, depletion and amortization 7,556 10,485 Exploration expense 224 469 EBITDAX $ 281 $ 13,458 Unrealized loss on derivative instruments $ 3,646 $ 519 Non-cash stock-based compensation charges 1,052 1,424 Impairment of oil and gas properties 483 3,097 Gain on sale of assets and investment in affiliates (18 ) (10,154 ) Adjusted EBITDAX $ 5,444 $ 8,344 In addition to Adjusted EBITDAX, we may provide additional non-GAAP financial measures because our management believes providing investors with this information gives additional insights into our profitability, cash flows and expenses. Adjusted EBITDAX, and other non-GAAP measures in this release are not presentations made in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP. As discussed above, we believe that the presentation of non-GAAP financial measures in this release is appropriate. However, when evaluating our results, you should not consider the non-GAAP financial measures in isolation of, or as a substitute for, measures of our financial performance as determined in accordance with GAAP, such as net income (loss). For example, Adjusted EBITDAX have material limitations as performance measures because it excludes items that are necessary elements of our costs and operations. Because other companies may calculate Adjusted EBITDAX differently than we do, Adjusted EBITDAX as presented in this release is not, comparable to similarly-titled measures reported by other companies. Guidance for Second Quarter 2019 The Company is providing the following guidance for the second calendar quarter of 2019. Production 30,000 - 35,000 Mcfe per day LOE (including transportation and workovers) $4.7 million - $5.3 million Production and ad valorem taxes (% of Revenue) 3.50% - 4.0% Cash G&A $3.5 million - $4.0 million DD&A Rate $2.40 - $2.65 Teleconference Call Contango management will hold a conference call to discuss the information described in this press release on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 8:30am Central Daylight Time. Those interested in participating in the earnings conference call may do so by calling 1-800-288-8974, (International 1-612-332-0530) and entering participation code 467281. A replay of the call will be available from Thursday, May 9, 2019 at 10:30am CDT through Thursday, May 16, 2019 at 11:59pm CDT by calling 1-800-475-6701, (International 1-320-365-3844) and entering participation code 467281. About Contango Oil & Gas Company Contango Oil & Gas Company is a Houston, Texas based, independent oil and natural gas company whose business is to maximize production and cash flow from its offshore properties in the shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico and onshore properties in Texas and Wyoming and to use that cash flow to explore, develop, exploit, increase production from and acquire crude oil and natural gas properties in West Texas, the Texas Gulf Coast and the Rocky Mountain regions of the United States. Additional information is available on the Company's website at http://contango.com. Forward-Looking Statements and Cautionary 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, as amended. These statements are, based on Contangos current expectations and includes statements regarding our estimates of future production, and other guidance (including information regarding lease operating expenses, cash G&A expenses, and DD&A Rate), the Companys drilling program, acquisitions and divestitures, future results of operations, quality and nature of the asset base, the assumptions upon which estimates are based and other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, strategies or statements about future events or performance. Words and phrases used to identify our forward-looking statements include terms such as guidance, "expects", projects, "anticipates", "plans", "estimates", "potential", "possible", "probable", or "intends", or words and phrases stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "will", "should", or "could" be taken, occur or be achieved. Statements concerning oil and gas reserves also may be deemed to be forward looking statements in that they reflect estimates based on certain assumptions that the resources involved can be economically exploited. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those, reflected in the statements. These risks include, but are not limited to: the risks of the oil and gas industry (for example, operational risks in exploring for, developing and producing crude oil and natural gas; risks and uncertainties involving geology of oil and gas deposits; the uncertainty of reserve estimates; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to future production, costs and expenses; potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; health, safety and environmental risks and risks related to weather such as hurricanes and other natural disasters); uncertainties as to the availability and cost of financing; our ability to comply with financial covenants in our debt instruments, repay indebtedness and access new sources of indebtedness, including our ability to refinance and/or replace our existing credit facility, provide additional liquidity for future capital expenditures and/or continue as a going concern; fluctuations in oil and gas prices; risks associated with derivative positions; our ability to realize expected value from acquisitions and to complete strategic dispositions of assets and realize the benefits of such dispositions; the need to take impairments on properties due to lower commodity prices; the limited trading volume of our common stock and general market volatility; ability of our management team to execute its plans or to meet its goals; shortages of drilling equipment, oil field personnel and services; unavailability of gathering systems, pipelines and processing facilities; the possibility that government policies may change or governmental approvals may be delayed or withheld; and the other factors discussed under the Risk Factors heading in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018 and our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with or furnished to the SEC. Additional information on these and other factors which could affect Contangos operations or financial results are included in Contangos reports on file with the SEC. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from the projections in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made and are based on the estimates and opinions of management at the time the statements are made. Contango does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change. Initial production rates are subject to decline over time and should not be regarded as reflective of sustained production levels. Initial production rates of wells and initial indications of formation performance or the benefits of any transaction are not necessarily indicative of future or long-term results. In January 2018, Fair Districts Louisiana hosted the Louisiana Redistricting Summit with the goal of exploring measures to ensure that the post-2020 Census redrawing of our congressional, legislative, Supreme Court, and BESE districts accords with the core American ideal of having a responsive representative democracy. We were delighted to see that participants from across the political spectrum overwhelmingly agreed on the need for fair maps. Louisianans may not agree on everything, but we certainly agree on this. The desire for transparency in redistricting was one aspect on which there was particularly overwhelming agreement. Guided by this, we began researching redistricting transparency measures across the country. Ultimately, we identified a set of recommendations and worked with legislators and subject matter experts to put together a bill. The end result was House Bill 504 introduced into the 2019 session. Our Views: Louisiana needs to find a better way to draw electoral districts A grassroots group, Fair Districts Louisiana, is helping to host a conference at LSU in January on the problem of politically gerrymandered di The House and Government Affairs Committee Tuesday voted down HB 504. Even though all the members agreed that the redrawing of electoral districts after each census is one of the most consequential processes to take place in our democracy, the Republican members of the committee did not want to confirm a strategy for public meetings. Fair Districts, Louisiana Progress and the Power Coalition, Public Affairs Research Council and the many other groups supporting improving transparency in how districts are drawn will continue to advocate so that our governing bodies are accurately representative of our states citizens. In past redistricting processes, the Louisiana legislature has chosen to pursue several important transparency measures. However, due to term limits, the legislators who will be drawing the maps in 2021 will have little experience with those previous redistricting processes. This is why HB 504 sought to codify some of those earlier transparency measures into law, and to build on them. Specifically, it would codify these three things: Require the Legislature to conduct at least ten public hearings across the state prior to the beginning of the redistricting legislative session, with the goal of informing the public and gathering input. Require a five-day public review period between when the new maps are reported from committee and when they go up for a final floor vote, so the press and public will have a chance to review the new districts that will be in place for the next 10 years. Establish a nonbinding study and advisory commission that will look at past redistricting practices in Louisiana, identify best practices from other states, and learn about redistricting tools and resources that have become available in recent years. Redistricting is a complex process. We will continue to advocate for these three steps which will help to ensure public education and input and give legislators some important tools they can use to foster a healthier, fairer, more open democracy in Louisiana. Stephen Kearny Fair Districts Louisiana Baton Rouge No matter where you live in New Orleans, youve likely noticed that most of the homes in your neighborhood have exterior shutters. Theyre charming architectural details that have framed windows for centuries to protect residents from flying debris during a storm and to shade them from the hot summer sun. Aside from being practical, shutters add dimension, color and a sweet touch to the facade of any home. But purchasing new or antique shutters or repairing the ones you have can be costly. First, decide whether theyre worth the investment, and then determine which shutter style fits your needs. +6 There's no place like these unusual New Orleans homes Three homes that put a creative spin on Big Easy living Richard Maia, the manufacturing manager at LAS Shutters and Windows (800-264-1527; www.lashome.com), has met customers who want decorative shutters even if those shutters dont actually work because they hope to boost their homes curb appeal. When you drive around and look at peoples homes, you're going to see a lot of what we call deco shutters, Maia says. Those are shutters that don't function. In fact, the combined width of shutters flanking a window may be smaller than the width of the window. That's one of the biggest faux pas in our industry, but you see it on all kinds of houses, he says, adding that other signs of low-quality decorative shutters include elements that are not placed in the proper spots. Some LAS customers want shutters that at least open and close, while others prefer durable shutters that will protect their home during a hurricane, Maia says. If storm protection is a priority, consider aluminum shutters, which are stronger than wood. LAS manufactures aluminum shutters that mimic the dimensions and elements of wooden shutters, and coats them with a powdery matte paint that completes the look. I go around the French Quarter taking pictures of shutters all the time, figuring out ways to make our shutters look better, Maia says. Aesthetics is the main reason you would buy a shutter. Storm protection is just the added benefit. Impact-rated windows dont shatter when theyre stuck by storm debris, but they can crack, and you may end up replacing a window that costs $800 to $1,000, rather than (replacing) a hurricane-rated shutter that may cost you $400 to $500, he says. Sturdy antique shutters or shutters made from reclaimed wood also offer protection from strong winds. And they have the composition and architectural details of shutters that were made in a bygone era. The Bank Architectural Antiques (1824 Felicity St., 504-523-2702; www.thebankantiques.com) sells and repairs antique shutters with the same machines that were used to create them nearly 150 years ago. We can strip the old paints off of shutters and replace missing parts, like the slats or the rods, and get them ready to be painted again, says Kelly Wilkerson, co-owner of the shop. +2 A real estate debate: Is a new home necessarily a better home? WHEN NARROWING DOWN THE SEARCH FOR A HOUSE, local homebuyers face a few tough decisions. Which neighborhood best suits their lifestyles and pe Most antique shutters are made of cypress, which is expensive and difficult to source, but The Bank creates its shutters with Spanish cedar. Cedar is denser than cypress, looks nice in its natural state and when its painted, and it contains a natural bug repellent, Wilkerson says. There are a lot of guys out there pulling old cypress boards out of rivers, and they're not air-drying them like they used to, Wilkerson says. You would air-dry a piece of wood for 20 years. But now, they're finding ways to make that happen in six months, and it's completely changing the makeup and the integrity of the wood. So, if you come across a set of antique shutters that are salvageable, keep them. You never know when a hurricane is going to enter the Gulf, and its nice to close your shutters for that extra layer of security, she says. Theyre a great alternative to putting up plywood. The professionals at Five Star Painting (504-264-6044; www.fivestarpainting.com) also repair damaged shutters. If they've been well-maintained, then all we have to do is clean them maybe knock a few edges off and then put a nice, light coat of paint on them, says owner Michael Dodick. If the paint has failed, we're in a situation where there's a lot more manual labor involved to remove the failing paint from the surfaces, prior to recoating them. The shutters are dipped in a solution that eliminates the paint, but reveals a rough surface that requires a significant amount of sanding, he says. Repainting a single shutter can cost $150 to $350, but Dodick believes that shutters are a worthwhile home investment. A classic New Orleans home looks incomplete without them, he says. The shutters that are on those homes were originally used to protect the home during storms and shade the home. There's no reason that they can't be used for those same reasons today. They just take more upkeep than I think people realize, but that's the truth about every bit of having an old New Orleans home. The sudden resignation of at-large Jefferson Parish Councilman Chris Roberts on April 29 touched off a tsunami of rumors about the councilmans future, but the more interesting topic is the future of West Bank politics. With or without Roberts, big changes are coming to the West Bank. In the short run, Roberts interim replacement is coming down to Keith Conley, a former top aide to Parish President Mike Yenni, and businessman Larry Katz, who was nominated for an interim council seat several years ago. The interim appointee will serve until the new council takes office next January. Parish elections coincide with statewide elections in October. Clancy DuBos: Are minimum wage, equal rights bills candidates for long-shot success? In the last two annual sessions of the Louisiana Legislature, bills that were considered long shots somehow managed to become law. In 2017 a p Conley was nominated by term-limited District 1 Councilman Ricky Templet, who is running for Roberts former at-large A seat. Katz was nominated by District 4 Councilman Dominick Impastato of Kenner, where Conley also resides. For decades, the two at-large seats have been split between Jeffersons East and West Banks. That split is an unwritten political understanding, not the law. Roberts lives on the West Bank, so its interesting that both leading candidates for the interim job live on the East Bank. That political anomaly may not last long. Templet, a West Banker, has no major announced opponents for Roberts seat. Ditto for District 2 Councilman Paul Johnston of Harahan, who plans to seek the at-large B seat currently held by Cynthia Lee-Sheng, whos running for parish president. Clancy DuBos: Cantrell did right with safer traffic cams but no notice looks wrong MAYOR LATOYA CANTRELLS HANDLING, OR RATHER HER MISHANDLING, of the traffic camera flap proves that in politics, its not enough to be right o Conley was rumored to be running for an at-large seat, but the parish charter bars him from running if he gets the interim post. Whoever gets the nod should promise not to seek any political post in the fall and not to schedule or hold fundraisers. This much is certain: Parish rules require Roberts seat to be filled at a special council meeting to be held no later than May 16. Now for the bigger picture: Roberts departure comes amid major demographic changes on the West Bank, which are driving tectonic shifts in Jefferson Parish overall from a predominantly white bedroom community two decades ago to an increasingly diverse parish today. Consider the following statistics: From 2000 to 2017, Jefferson Parishs white population declined from 64% to 53% of the total population. Meanwhile, Jeffersons minority population increased from 36% to 47%. The most significant increase came among Hispanic residents, who now comprise 15% of Jeffersons population. African-Americans remain the largest minority contingent at 26%; Asians are 4% and others, the rest. In less than a decade, nonwhites will be Jeffersons majority. Voter registration figures are equally revealing. Templets Council District 1, which is anchored by Gretna, is 51.2% white, 35.3% black, and 13.4% other. The district could gain even more minority voters after the 2020 Census. The West Bank overall has not had a white voting majority for some time, says Greg Rigamer, a local demographer and political consultant. It is currently 44.6% white, 44.1% black, and 11.3% other races. It typically casts about 38% of the vote parish-wide, which is a lot, but overall the West Bank is losing some of the political muscle it once had. All of which will make the fall elections even more interesting to watch. PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) After a jury convicted an Oregon man of having sex with a passed-out partygoer, one of the jurors left the courthouse and wept. Cash Spencer and three other jurors believed the defendant was innocent, but after a lunch break, one changed her mind. Hours later, another changed her vote to guilty, saying she had to take care of her children and didn't want to return the next day, according to Spencer. That put the number of guilty votes at 10 enough to convict Olan Williams of felony sodomy, condemning him to a mandatory minimum eight years in prison. The vote of Spencer, the only African-American on the jury in which the defendant was also black, meant nothing. Oregon is the only state in America that allows nonunanimous jury convictions. Voters in Louisiana, the only other state that had adopted it, scrapped the provision in 2018. Now, momentum is building for the same in Oregon, with several lawmakers sponsoring a ballot measure to eliminate an amendment to the state constitution that allows nonunanimous verdicts. In addition, a Louisiana case pending before the U.S. Supreme Court could have far-reaching effects in Oregon. Supreme Court's decision to take up split-jury law casts long shadow over Louisiana's legal landscape When a New Orleans jury voted 10-2 to convict Charles Monroe of murder after less than an hour of deliberation late Tuesday, his defense attor Louisiana jury case revives long-running Supreme Court debate over reach of Bill of Rights Calvin Duncan was soaking in the sun outside the federal courthouse in New Orleans about a year ago when the subject turned to Greek mythology. "We have evolved, and it's time for our criminal justice system to reform and to move ahead," state Sen. James Manning Jr., co-sponsor of a resolution that would put the issue on the ballot in the 2020 election, told The Associated Press. The amendment allowing split-jury verdicts dates back decades and has roots in white nationalism. In 1933, Jacob Silverman, a Portland hotel proprietor with a sketchy past, was on trial for the murder of a small-time crook. Eleven jurors believed he was guilty, but one voted for acquittal. They settled on convicting Silverman, a Jew, of a lesser manslaughter charge. He was sentenced to three years, which caused a stir. Anti-minority sentiment was prevalent in Oregon. The Ku Klux Klan even helped elect a governor a few years earlier. In an editorial, the Morning Oregonian newspaper, which covered Silverman's trial, said the "vast immigration into America from southern and eastern Europe, of people untrained in the jury system, have combined to make the jury of twelve increasingly unwieldy and unsatisfactory." The Legislature put the issue on the ballot, and voters passed it in 1934, allowing 10-2 verdicts for crimes except first-degree murder. Oregon officials don't compile data on how many jury verdicts are nonunanimous, but a 2009 study by the Office of Public Defense Services concluded they "occur with great frequency in felony trials throughout the state." The office found 65% of the verdicts were nonunanimous in trials during 2007 and 2008 in which public defenders were involved and juries were polled. Can't see video below? Click here. Last year, a man was exonerated after being convicted by a nonunanimous jury in 2017 of sexual abuse of a minor and sentenced to 50 years in prison. The case was tossed after new evidence showed the alleged victim lied under oath. The Oregon District Attorneys Association says it favors the ballot measure because "adding the requirement of unanimity is another important safeguard against both wrongful convictions and wrongful acquittals." Three district attorneys dissented, noting in a newspaper column that an accused person can also be acquitted by a split jury, and insisting that requiring unanimous verdicts would increase hung juries. Rep. Jennifer Williamson, another co-sponsor of the ballot measure resolution, takes strong exception to that stance. "It's outrageous to me that they would say that for efficiency's sake we shouldn't have unanimous juries," Williamson said. Requiring unanimous verdicts pushes juries to consider evidence more thoroughly, lessening the chances for wrongful convictions, she said. "It results in more deliberation time." During Williams' 2016 trial in Portland, the jury reached its 10-2 verdict within hours. +2 Tilting the scales series: Everything to know about Louisiana's controversial 10-2 jury law For the last 120 years, Louisiana has had an unusual and long-standing allowance for split jury verdicts in felony cases. In a recent interview at a Portland park, Spencer, wearing hoop earrings, her short hair frosted blond, remembered a court clerk checking in with jurors near the end of the first day of deliberations. He wanted to see when they planned to return the next day. Three jurors still maintained the prosecution failed to show beyond a reasonable doubt that Williams, who is gay, had sex with a heterosexual man who had passed out from alcohol. After the clerk left, one of the holdouts announced she would vote with the majority because she had children to care for and didn't want to come back, Spencer said. "And that was it," Spencer said. "The foreman called the clerk back in and said we had come to a decision." Spencer went to her car outside the courthouse but couldn't drive because she was so distraught. "This man's life was ruined without everyone agreeing he was guilty," Spencer said. "I remember just bawling in the car." Williams, who is out on bail, declined a request for an interview. Spencer, who works as a health benefits manager, said she doesn't believe race was a factor in the jury's deliberations. But she thinks it's unfair to Williams that the vote of the only juror who was the same race as him in a state where blacks account for only 2.1% of the population made no difference. "This right here shows how far we are off the rails when we think we are actually a diverse state," Spencer said. Marc Brown, Williams' public defender, appealed, saying the nonunanimous verdict violates the U.S. Constitution's equal protection clause. But the Oregon Court of Appeals said it lacked the scope to rule on that issue. Brown has asked the appeals court to reconsider. He can also take the case to the state Supreme Court, and if it denies a review, to the U.S. Supreme Court. Brown would notify the high court that his appeal covers the same issue as the Louisiana case it will consider in the fall. That case involves Evangelisto Ramos, who was convicted in 2016 by a nonunanimous jury of second-degree murder in the killing of a woman in New Orleans. The change in Louisiana's constitution applied only to crimes committed on or after Jan. 1. If the U.S. Supreme Court finds nonunanimous juries unconstitutional, it will impact Oregon, legal experts say. +16 The Advocate wins first Pulitzer Prize for series that helped change Louisiana's split-jury law The Advocate was awarded its first Pulitzer Prize on Monday for reporting on the racial impacts of Louisianas unique laws allowing juries to "It will directly affect all cases going forward by requiring unanimous jury decisions for convictions in all felony cases, thus bringing Oregon in line with all the other states and the federal system," said Aliza Kaplan, a professor at Portland's Lewis & Clark Law School. Cases on appeal also would be affected because they are not yet considered final decisions, she said. Potentially hundreds of cases on appeal could be sent back for retrial. A U.S. Supreme Court ruling is expected months before Oregonians would vote on any ballot measure passed by the Legislature. A decision in favor of Ramos would nullify the 1934 amendment to Oregon's constitution, but the ballot measure would still be useful because it would remove a provision rooted in racism and xenophobia, Williamson said. "It's just a really interesting time," Brown said. "We've been fighting about this for many years." ___ Follow Andrew Selsky on Twitter. CUDDLE BUDDIES: Carmen Fouquet will lead a Cuddle Buddies learning and support group for parents and playtime for babies 7-15 months old, from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. May 16 at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. Participation is free for Parenting Center members; the membership fee is $125 a year. For information, visit www.stph.org/ParentingCenter. HOSPITAL PROMOTION: Marc Junot, RN, has been named associate administrator of the heart and vascular service line at Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington. He previously was the clinical manager of the Cath Lab/PACU at the hospital, a campus of Tulane Medical Center. LAMAZE CLASS: Lakeview Regional Medical Center will host a class for expectant parents at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays through May 23, in the Magnolia Room, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. Participants will learn options for childbirth including Lamaze, breathing and relaxation techniques, medicated and natural deliveries, and a unit tour will be given in a four-class series. Bring a blanket and 1-2 pillows for learning the breathing and relaxation techniques. The class is limited to 20 participants. For information or to register, see www.lakeviewregional.com or call (985) 867-3900. SAFE SITTER; A two-day safe sitter program for teenagers will be offered from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 30-31; at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. Topics will include CPR, safety, choking rescue, online safety, child care, life and business skills along with behavior management. The class fee of $95 is nonrefundable. For information, visit www.stph.org/ParentingCenter. LA LECHE: The La Leche League of St. Tammany, which supports mothers who are breast-feeding or considering breast-feeding, will meet from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. June 7, at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. For information, visit www.stph.org/ParentingCenter. SAFETALK: Suicide Alterness For Everyone courses will be offered at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 1, at 427 N. Theard St., Covington, by the St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide. The morning course teaches recognition of those with thoughts of suicide and to connect them to intervention resources. Cost is $35. This program has been approved for 2.5 general continuing education contact hours and may be applied toward the requirements for license renewal. For more information and registration, visit www.stops-la.com or call (985) 237-5506. SUICIDE INTERVENTION: St. Tammany Outreach for the Prevention of Suicide will hold Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training June 20-21, a two-day suicide first-aid interactive workshop at 427 N. Theard St., Covington. Cost is $50. The class provides 14 general continuing education units through the Louisiana State Board of Social Workers Examiners. For more information and to register, visit www.stops-la.com or call (985) 237-5506. The program provides training for caregivers seeking to prevent the immediate risk of suicide. The emphasis is on suicide first-aid. This is a full two-day intensive course taught by 2 to 3 trained staff. The course is approved by the NASW-LA Chapter for 14 general CEU credits. The cost is a nominal registration fee of $50.00. ONGOING St. Tammany top stories in your inbox A weekly guide to the biggest news in St. Tammany. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up BETTER BREATHERS CLUB: The Better Breathers Club, a program of the American Lung Association, meets from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month in the Magnolia Room of Lakeview Regional Medical Center, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. The club is meant for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as well as their caregivers. To register, visit lakeviewregional.com or call (985) 867-3900. CAREGIVERS WORKSHOP: The Council on Aging St. Tammany Parish caregiver support programs allow those caring for people with Alzheimer's, dementia or other age-related illnesses to share struggles and successes, guided by gerontologist Matt Estrade. The free Caregiver Support and Education group meetings are at 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Covington Senior Center, 19404 N. 10th St., and at the Slidell Senior Center, 610 Cousin St. For information, call (985) 892-0377. CHILD SAFETY SEAT INSPECTIONS: The St. Tammany Parenting Center has appointments for free inspections of child safety seats. Call (985) 898-4435. Inspections are held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Louisiana State Police Troop L headquarters, 2600 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are appreciated. For information on the State Police program, call (985) 893-6250 or email greg.marchand@la.gov. GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS: Gamblers Anonymous meets several times a week throughout the New Orleans area. Gamblers Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with one another to solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem. For information, call (855) 222-5542 or visit gamblersanonymous.org. SAIL AND TAI CHI: Council on Aging St. Tammany is registering seniors 60 and older for free exercise classes at the Covington Active Aging Center, 19404 N. 10th St. Stay Active and Independent for Life is a strength, balance, endurance, flexibility and fitness class for older adults and will be offered at 8 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Tai Chi, according to wellness coordinator Nick Pichon, is a "Chinese practice that is moderate and nonstrenuous in nature, with classes at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. For information, call Pichon at COAST, (985) 892-0377. YOGA FOR CANCER PATIENTS: Patricia Hart conducts free yoga classes for cancer patients, survivors and their caregivers from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Mondays on the second floor of the Slidell Memorial Hospital Wellness Pavilion, 501 Robert Blvd., Slidell. Wear loose clothing; mats are available for use. Registration and a medical release are required. For information, call Hart at (985) 707-4961. NEW BABY SUPPORT GROUP: A support group for parents with babies from birth to 6 months meets from 11:15 a.m. to noon Thursdays at the St. Tammany Parish Hospital Parenting Center, 1505 N. Florida St., Suite B, Covington. For information, visit www.stph.org/ParentingCenter. BIRTHING TOUR: Lakeview Regional Medical Center will host a tour of the women and children's services units starting at 10:30 a.m. May 11 at 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. The group tours are for expectant parents and their families to see the labor and delivery and recovery/postpartum units and talk about the process from admitting to discharge. The tours are offered the second Saturday of each month and run every half-hour until noon. For information or to register, see www.lakeviewregional.com or call (985) 867-3900. CHILDBIRTH CLASS: Lakeview Regional Medical Center will host a class on preparing for childbirth at 6 p.m. May 20 in the Magnolia Room, 95 Judge Tanner Blvd., Covington. For information and to register, call (985) 867-3900 or visit www.lakeviewregional.com. New Orleans jail officials are doing better in serving ill inmates, federal monitors said Tuesday, but continuing violence within the jail and a lack of accountability measures as well as a looming deadline to build a temporary mental-health facility suggest much more progress needs to be made. U.S. District Judge Lance Africk and lead federal monitor Margo Frasier said at a court hearing that they saw signs of improvement inside the jail, which has been under federal oversight since officials signed a reform agreement with inmate advocates and the U.S. Justice Department in 2013. Deputies are being trained on how to deal with drugs withdrawal and detoxification, and Tulane University doctors have been brought in to provide some mental-health services. Dr. Robert Greifinger, a prison health care expert, said he saw substantial and measurable improvement on his most recent tour. But Africk warned that crucial issues remain unaddressed. And he noted that the impending construction of a multimillion-dollar temporary mental health facility and its permanent replacement will be a major test for the Sheriffs Office and Mayor LaToya Cantrell. The last compliance report is the best report this court has seen since this litigation began," said Africk, referring to a March progress report. "Its clear that significant progress is being made but we do have a ways to go." When Africk and Frasier toured the jail last month, they found a boy sitting in a dark cell in the youth tier. The frightened teen told them the light bulb had been out for days. Deputies installed a new one in minutes. But leaving a boy in the dark for days demonstrated how the jail must do a better job moving forward, Frasier said. There has to be action plans, audits, said Frasier, a former sheriff in Texas. The self-criticism needs to be there, the accountability. Until the March report, reports on the jail from monitors had focused on staffing shortages, rampant inmate violence, frequent suicide attempts and endemic drug abuse. The monitors said all of those problems still exist, but others are finally being tamped down. Medical and mental health care, once recurring sore spots, have finally been improved over the past year, according to Frasiers team of monitors. About half of the deputies working at the jail have now received training on detoxification and withdrawal, whereas on past visits none had been trained. The jail has also added Tulane School of Medicine department of psychiatry doctors to provide mental health services. Dr. Raymond Patterson, the mental health monitor, said the Tulane psychiatrists had significantly improved the assessments the jail makes of inmates when they first arrive. However, Patterson struck a similar note as Frasier about the jails failure to analyze incidents and mistakes. He said he had received inaccurate data about the number of individual counseling sessions inmates receive. Meanwhile, there seems to be no review of the reasons for spikes in suicide attempts. Frasier said she saw a similar pattern of poor analysis of incidents involving deputies use of force on inmates and violence between inmates. In 2018, the jail disclosed 442 inmate-on-inmate assaults and 260 uses of force by staff. The monitors report did not compare those statistics to prior years. Despite a push to write reports on more incidents, Frasier said punishment is still spotty for late or missing reports from guards and supervisors. During the hearing, Africk and the monitors saved their most pointed comments for Cantrells administration. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Under state law, the city is responsible for providing the Sheriffs Office with its facilities. The jails reform agreement requires it to provide appropriate facilities for inmates who suffer from mental health problems, but plans for a dedicated building have been stalled for years. In February, the Mayors Office seemed to waffle on whether it wanted to create a new building, as Africk prefers, or to renovate part of the existing Orleans Justice Center, as some prison reformers advocated. Officials estimated that a temporary housing project would cost $4.5 million to $5 million. The judge responded the next month by ordering the city to immediately begin renovating an existing building to house mental health inmates on a temporary basis. City Attorney Sunni LeBeouf said Tuesday that the administration hopes to have the temporary building renovated by March 2020 and the permanent one finished by June 2022. Africk said all the parties involved in the renovation and construction effort need to work together. He likened the process to inspecting a cars brakes and motors before buying it. The citys interested in saving money, and theres nothing wrong with that, but the money cant be saved at the expense of not having a constitutional jail, Africk said. The hearing also provided a window into the corrections philosophy of Darnley Hodge Sr., a longtime jail administrator in Virginia who served as a monitor in New Orleans before Africk installed him as the jails independent compliance director in February 2018. Hodge is the second jail compliance director, a position created by court order in 2016 that essentially sidelined longtime Sheriff Marlin Gusman after years of critical reports on conditions at the jail. Gusman was present at Tuesday's hearing but did not speak. Hodge weighed in after monitor Patricia Hardyman said she still sees problems with how the jail separates inmates to avoid gang fights or personal disputes. The jails classification specialists too often override recommended placements in order to quickly send inmates to an intake tier upon booking, she said. Hodge said he would comply with Hardymans recommendations, but he bristled at the idea that inmates need to be divided into finely tuned categories. Hodge also rejected the notion expressed by several monitors that the jail does not examine its missteps. But his response raised eyebrows as he seemed to suggest that he may be considering leaving his post. We do conduct critical analysis of every single incident, he said. I dont want to leave this organization in a few months and things regress back to whatever. That prompted Africk to reassure Hodge about the positive improvements observed in the latest monitors report. When you say, when you leave this organization in a few months, you really dont mean that, Africk said. When I leave, you leave, not before. After the hearing, Hodge said he has no immediate plans to depart and hopes to see the jail reforms through to their end. The fire that ripped through a Treme building Wednesday destroyed what had long been a neighborhood mainstay for down-home Creole soul food. Roosevelts Black Pearl Restaurant occupied the ground floor of a two-story townhouse at 1001 N. Claiborne Ave. The restaurant was known for bargain meals of mustard greens and turkey necks, smothered okra with cornbread, and baked or fried chicken. Firefighters found flames and smoke pouring from the rear of the building at 10:45 a.m., the New Orleans Fire Department reported. Some 44 firefighters worked until 12:20 p.m. to bring the fire under control, preventing it from spreading to a newly renovated, two-story apartment building on St. Philip Street. No injuries were reported from the fire, which sent a large plume of smoke into the surrounding area. But the fires proximity to an elevated portion of Interstate 10 caused traffic slowdowns, and Claiborne was temporarily closed to traffic in both directions between Dumaine and Ursulines streets. The Fire Department said it received reports that the restaurant was in business at the time of the blaze, although Black Pearl has not had a license to operate as a restaurant since 2009, according to a state database current as of last year. It also does not have a city business license or a permit to serve alcohol. However, it is not uncommon for unlicensed food purveyors to operate in some New Orleans neighborhoods, and Roosevelts Black Pearl was still known around Treme as a place for plate lunches. While the restaurant is listed as closed on some online directories, periodic social media posts from customers show people were still dropping in for meals. One longtime cook and customer, Joseph Mimitte, told WWL-TV on Wednesday, "If you didnt have enough money, (the owner)'ll give you something to eat and tell you dont worry about it." Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Another man, Daniel Sterling, told WWL, "We really hope Mr. Roosevelt comes back in time." The Fire Department said three people were believed to have been in the building, including the 85-year-old owner, an employee and a tenant of a second-floor apartment who got out using his balcony. All were able to escape the fire. Officials didn't identify the building's owner, but records show it is Roosevelt Hargett. The owner has been cited multiple times in past years for allowing the building to deteriorate. Last year, the city pulled down the property's electrical meter after an inspection found that it had damaged electrical conduits, a damaged electrical system and exposed electrical wires, among other problems, records show. It was reported as being in imminent danger of collapse in 2014, and since then, the city has listed multiple violations for construction work being done without a permit. Officials did not identify a cause for Wednesday's fire. But fires at neglected buildings have long plagued New Orleans, where properties renovated after Hurricane Katrina frequently neighbor ones that sit empty and blighted. The eastbound lanes of Interstate 10 on the Bonnet Carre Spillway reopened around 10 p.m. Wednesday after a fiery wreck involving an overturned semi-truck earlier in the afternoon shuttered that stretch of highway for most of the day. The crash occurred on the eastbound span near I-310 southbound around 1 p.m. Crews worked into the night to repair damage to the roadway. State police confirmed that at least one person was injured in the crash, but the extent of the injury was not released. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Can't see video below? Click here. Video used with permission from @reggiejmorris on Twitter. Click here to see more video from the scene. A 41-year-old man used a switchblade knife to stab his fishing companion to death during a fight atop a levee in Bywater early Monday, New Orleans police said. Alvin Glapion and a 42-year-old man began arguing about 12:25 a.m. on a levee near the 4400 block of Dauphine Street over what time the 42-year-old man's girlfriend had been out that night, police said. After Glapion returned to fishing, the other man hit him in the face and knocked him out, he said. Glapion said he awoke to find the other man on top of him, so Glapion pulled out a switchblade and stabbed the other man several times, police said. Police later showed up and were told by Glapion that he had stabbed the victim during a fight. Before he died, the victim whose name has not been released made a remark to staff at University Medical Center that suggested Glapion had tried to kill him, police wrote in documents filed in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The hospital staff treated the victim for cuts to the back of his neck, to his lower abdomen, through his chest and under his left arm, police said. His left thumb had been cut off during the attack as well, according to police. Glapion was initially jailed Monday on a count of attempted murder. After the victim died, the count was upgraded to second-degree murder. Glapion's bail was set at $250,000. He would face mandatory life imprisonment if convicted of second-degree murder. Glapion served prison time after pleading guilty to first-degree robbery in 1996 and then violating the terms of the probation that he was given in the case, court records show. Suncorp's mortgage portfolio shrank by $314 million in the first quarter as flooding in Queensland caused more customers to fall behind on their loan repayments, in a further sign of the weak conditions in retail banking. The financial conglomerate on Wednesday said the 0.7 per cent contraction in its $47.7 billion mortgage book, which offset gains in its business credit growth, was caused by fierce price competition and the ongoing slump in home loan growth. Suncorp said it expected home loan growth would recover after a weak quarter. Credit:Dave Hunt As a result of the quarterly decline in mortgage lending, its total loan book of more than $58.9 billion also contracted, by 0.5 per cent, in the March quarter. It rose 1 per cent in annual terms. At the same time, the bank said there had been a 2.5 per cent lift in loans that were past due but not impaired, to $537 million, which it said was mainly due to weather events, including flooding in Townsville and across north west Queensland in the quarter. English French TORONTO, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bombardier Commercial Aircraft announced today the recipients of fourteen 2018 Airline Reliability Awards. The award recognizes operators of Bombardier CRJ Series regional jets and Q Series turboprops who achieve the highest rates of dispatch reliability. Bombardier Commercial Aircraft held a Gala Awards Ceremony to present the awards on the first day of the 2019 European Regional Review in Munich, Germany. We are delighted to congratulate this years award recipients for their outstanding performance, said Todd Young, Vice President and General Manager, Head of the Q Series Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. We are proud of the strong collaboration between Bombardier, our operators and suppliers and the success it delivers in providing efficient, reliable air service to communities worldwide. The 2018 Airline Awards acknowledge the accomplishments of our customers, focusing on their continuous success flying competitively, said Charles Comtois, Head of the CRJ Series Aircraft Program, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. We are proud to continue assisting our operators and suppliers in achieving their excellent performances by delivering global service solutions. The European Regional Review is an interactive and informative event designed to promote Bombardier's partnership with commercial aircraft (Q Series and CRJ Series) operators, suppliers and partners as well as industry affiliates. The event highlights key operational achievements and creates a unique opportunity for all participants to network with airlines, industry experts and program suppliers. The winners of the 2018 Airline Reliability Awards are listed in Appendix A. About Bombardier With over 68,000 employees across four business segments, Bombardier is a global leader in the transportation industry, creating innovative and game-changing planes and trains. Our products and services provide world-class transportation experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety. Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Bombardier has production and engineering sites in 28 countries across the segments of Transportation, Business Aircraft, Commercial Aircraft and Aerostructures and Engineering Services. Bombardier shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, Bombardier posted revenues of $16.2 billion. News and information are available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier . Notes to Editors Photographs from the Awards Gala are posted with this press release at www.bombardier.com For more information on the CRJ Series and the Q Series/Dash 8 aircraft, visit http://news.commercialaircraft.bombardier.com/ Follow @BBD_Aircraf t on Twitter to receive the latest news and updates from Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. To receive our press releases, please visit the RSS Feed section of Bombardiers website. Bombardier, CRJ, CRJ100, CRJ200, CRJ700, CRJ900, CRJ1000, CRJ Series, Dash 8, Q100, Q200, Q300, Q400 and Q Series are trademarks of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries. For Information Nathalie Scott Bombardier Commercial Aircraft +1-416-375-3030 nathalie.scott@aero.bombardier.com www.bombardier.com Appendix A Winners of the 2018 Airline Reliability Awards Q100/200/300 Aircraft Program Oceania: Maldivian Europe: Wideres Flyveselskap North America: PAL Airlines Q400 Aircraft Program Oceania: Nok Air Europe: Olympic Air Asia Pacific: ANA Wings Africa & Middle East: JamboJet North America: WestJet Encore CRJ100/200 Aircraft Programs Europe: Air Nostrum North America: Jazz Aviation CRJ700/CRJ900/CRJ1000 Aircraft Programs Oceania: Garuda Indonesia Europe: CityJet Asia Pacific: China Express North America: Jazz Aviation A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/105e3565-c468-4b38-983b-b5aa60b43524 Bill Shorten's teary press conference hitting back at a critical story in the Daily Telegraph about his account of his late-mother's career has won praise from supporters, but has also been described by former News Corp executives and critics of the media giant as smart politics. It continues a strategy the Labor leader has pursued since before the start of the campaign that would have been unthinkable in previous elections, of openly attacking the nation's most powerful media company. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten speaks about his mother during a press conference at Grand Pacific Health in Nowra on May 8, 2019. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer On Wednesday the Telegraph ran a front page story and an editorial criticising Mr Shorten for omitting in a recent TV appearance the fact that his schoolteacher mother had become a lawyer later in life. Andrew Bolt, one of News Corp's highest profile commentators, whose columns appear in the Telegraph, said in a blog post he thought Mr Shorten was being sincere in praising his mother for sacrificing her dreams and understood why he was angry about the stories. Brookfield, the Canadian investment group targeted by shadow treasurer Chris Bowen over its links to tax havens - and allegedly not paying company tax in Australia - paid tens of millions of dollars in tax through its most prominent local subsidiary last year. Brookfield acquired Australian construction group Multiplex Group for more than $4.2 billion cash in 2017. It was Brookfield's first foray into the Australian market. Multiplex is building LK Property Group's Capitol Grand Tower in Melbourne's South Yarra. Financial accounts filed with ASIC for Multiplex Pty Ltd report that the construction group paid income tax totalling $26 million for the year ending December 31, 2018 on a profit before tax of $72 million. The prior year it paid taxes totalling $11.5 million on a profit of $26.3 million. Treasury Wine Estates boss Michael Clarke has just handed his short-selling hedge fund nemesis a whole cartridge of ammunition. Two days after US based Bayberry Capital eviscerated the companys prospects, Clarke has revealed he has sold almost half of his available shares a week ago, pocketing $6.9 million. A chief executive selling a large parcel of shares is never greeted well by other investors it is understandably taken as a signal that the share price is strong or peaking. Clarke sold at between $17.22 and $17.25 a six-month high. Treasury Wine Estates chief executive Michael Clarke. Credit:Jesse Marlow Clarke sold the stock before Bayberry Capitals Angela Aldrich took to the stage at the New York Sohn Investment Conference to call out what she saw as a number of issues confronting the company whose shares she suggested were 50 per cent overvalued. And the folks at Treasury assure us that Clarke had no idea about Aldrichs presentation before she hit the stage armed with damning anonymous commentary from insiders and alarming slides. A surge in oil and gas exploration will see so many wells drilled over the next five years that they could cover the distance of going to the moon and back, with high oil prices pushing companies to uncover the next big find. Global research house Rystad Energy forecasts that more than one million kilometres of new oil and gas wells will be drilled globally over the next five years as the resources sector undergoes a revival. Global oil and gas drilling depths in kilometres will be more than travelling to the moon and back. Credit:Alamy The collective depth of these wells is the equivalent of 25 times around the equator or 2.5 times the distance to the moon, the research firm said. It is also roughly the same as travelling between Sydney and Perth 250 times, or almost 300 times the distance between Melbourne and Perth. For Ann Taylor, the idea that Australia's colossal coal industry should be tamed is risible. Taylor is mayor of a council in Queensland that already hosts 26 mines. She wants more added from the nearby Galilee Basin, a coal-rich area about the size of Britain that, if fully developed, could more than double the country's exports of the fuel. "We're absolutely pro-coal mining and proud of it - that's why we're here," Taylor said in her office in Moranbah, a town of 8,000 people that owes its half-century existence to the industry. "There's a lot of life left in coal." The area around Moranbah is already host to 26 mines - and that may not be the end of it. Coal is Australia's second-largest income generator after iron ore, and many politicians welcome efforts to boost an industry that brings in $60 billion a year. The Premier, Mr Kennett, said Victorians and Australians generally should be relieved and gratified by yesterday's decisions. He said states, territories and the Commonwealth "have acted cooperatively, swiftly, with common sense and in good faith to draw up some of the toughest gun laws anywhere in the world". But the Sporting Shooters Association, which claims a membership of up to 50,000, condemned the ban as "one of the greatest infringements on the liberties of individuals in Australia's history". The national president, Mr Ted Drane, condemning Mr Howard as a fool, said shooters would be prepared to spend up to $1 million to campaign against the proposed new laws. Yesterday's agreement also includes a nationwide approach to registration and licensing. The deal prohibits the importation, ownership, sale, resale, transfer, possession, manufacture or use of: * All military-style centre-fire rifles, including those that substantially duplicate military styles. * All other self-loading centre-fire rifles. * All self-loading and pump-action shotguns. * All self-loading rim-fire rifles. Mr Howard said the import ban would begin at once. He said the exceptions would be for a limited range of official (police, military) or occupational purposes certified by a permit. "In practice, this will mean that primary producers can only have access to low-powered self-loading .22s and self- loading and pump-action shotguns if they can satisfy the police that they have a genuine need for them which cannot be met by any other means or by non-prohibited weapons," Mr Howard said. Twelve-month licences would be available for these special purposes. He said action would be taken to strictly regulate mail orders. The states have agreed to legislate as soon as possible for the agreement. Compensation will be paid for the hundreds of thousands of guns - precise estimates are being worked out - that the governments want handed in. Mr Howard will write next week to state leaders about the details of financing. The integrated licensing system, linked nationally, would ensure "that only those persons who are fit and proper with a genuine reason and need for a firearm will have access to one", the Prime Minister said. There will be stringent storage requirements, compulsory safety training for first-time licence applicants, and tight controls on the sale, advertising for sale and transfer of all firearms and ammunition. Members of the public looking at rifles on display. Credit:Peter Stoop Mr Howard said the agreement differed from the plan he advanced in two ways - one tougher, the other softer. It was tougher because it included the pump-action shotguns that were not in his original proposal. It was "a touch weaker" in including the provision for primary producers to get access under special circumstances to a low-powered semi-automatic. "I would have thought on balance you would probably argue that this is actually a slightly tougher proposal than we put in because of the reinclusion of the pump-action shotguns, " Mr Howard told a news conference also attended by state ministers. But the Tasmanian Coalition for Gun Control said the result was only a first step to a satisfactory gun-control regime. The Federal Opposition congratulated Mr Howard and the states on yesterday's agreement. The shadow attorney-general, Senator Bolkus, promised "full support in implementing these measures so that Australians get the gun laws we need". ACTION ON GUNS. THE DECISION: * Total ban on importation, ownership, sale, resale, transfer, posession, manufacture or use of automatic and semi-automatic rifles and shotguns. * A national approach to registration and licensing. A .22 calibre semi-automatic rifle. Credit:Steven Siewert WHAT`S BANNED: * ALL military-style centre-rifles, including those which substantially duplicate military styles. * ALL other self-loading centre-fire rifles. * ALL self-loading and pump-action shotguns. * ALL self-loading rimfire rifles. THE EXCEPTIONS: Weapons for limited range of official or occupational purposes (including military and police) certified by a permit. THE TIMING: * Ban on importation immediately. * Other bans as soon as states and territories can pass the necessary regulations or legislation. VICTORIA`S REACTION: "I am reasonably satisfied with the result"-- Police minister Bill McGrath. "(governments) have acted cooperatively, swiftly and in good faith to draw up some of the toughest gun laws anywhere in the world" -- Premier Jeff Kennett. WHO SAID WHAT: "This country, through its governments, has decided not to go down the American path" -- Prime Minister John Howard. "Some people will be affected but I'm sure that they will be more than adequately compensated. I hope in time they will realise that a difficult decision had to be made" -- Queensland Police Minister Russell Cooper. As Mr Latham wraps up his speech, he gives thanks to broadcaster and cookbook collaborator Alan Jones, who is sitting in the public gallery. Mr Jones, he says, "gave me a chance when others wouldn't." No stranger to defamation battles over some of his more inflammatory comments, Mr Latham also welcomed the protective shield of parliamentary privilege. "Parliamentary privilege: what a beautiful thing," he says. "How did I ever let it go?" He concludes by noting that his return to politics comes after a period of 14 years on the sidelines as a "home dad and a primary carer". "The days and years with my children have been the best of my life," he says. Police were up before dawn on Tuesday, raiding two rural properties and rounding up about 70 sheep along with two alleged rustlers. Detectives from the Eastern Region Crime Squad and Victoria Police's agricultural liaison officers raided properties in Clonbinane and Fosterville. A 25-year-old Ringwood East man was charged with two counts of theft, handling stolen goods and firearm offences. He was bailed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on August 9. A 46-year-old Bendigo man was interviewed and released pending further inquiries. It's been a fairly quiet news morning today, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. No news is often good news, right? Today, Scott Morrison and Bill Shorten are back on the hustings after last night's final debate. It's 11 more days til The Big Day;) Have a lovely day. Stay warm, and we'll see you again bright and early tomorrow. A former quarantine official has been spared immediate jail over his role as an inside man for a Melbourne orchid seller, having given imported flowers an easy passage through customs. It was Erol Ibrahim's job to be vigilant in detecting signs of overseas-borne insects and diseases in plants that arrived at Melbourne Airport's freight centre in his role with the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources. Erol Ibrahim outside court on Wednesday. Credit:AAP But between 2011 and 2016 Ibrahim failed to apply rigorous inspections of shipments of flowers from Singapore that were sent to Allan Neo, who ran the Hoppers Crossing-based flower business The Orchid Man. Ibrahim was deliberately lenient when inspecting the 12 shipments sent every week to Mr Neo, in return for cash and small gifts and out of a sense of devotion to the man he considered a father figure. ORLANDO, Fla., May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AVRA Medical Robotics, Inc. (the Company) (OTCQB: AVMR), an emerging company that is creating the next generation of autonomous surgical robotics through the use of technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and proprietary medical software architecture, announced today that it has retained The Horizon Phoenix Group and its principal Mr. Timothy K. Duggins as a regulatory consultant. The company entered into a four-year contract to conduct regulatory work on behalf of AVRA. The Horizon Phoenix Group has commenced its services on behalf of AVRA and has since initiated a dialogue with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), prepared and filed an application for AVRAs fully autonomous surgical robotic system with the FDA. Now that the application has been filed, the company has proceeded to request its first meeting with the FDA. Mr. Tim Duggins, said, Im extremely excited to join AVRA as their regulatory consultant. In my 35 years of assisting companies and helping them pursue their commercialization goals, I have never seen as promising a technology as AVRAs fully autonomous surgical robotic platform, which has all the hallmarks to becoming a game changer in the medical industry. I believe that the path to commercialization is within reach for AVRA and am looking forward to helping the company bring their new technologies to the healthcare marketplace. Barry Cohen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, said, We are extremely pleased to retain Tim and his firm, The Horizon Phoenix Group, to assist AVRA pursue the FDA approval for our first-generation robotic arm including software that will ultimately make the robotic arm function autonomously. Tim is a seasoned professional and is highly regarded in the industry. In addition to his deep expertise in the industry, Tim recently received the Best Abstract Award at the 3rd World Congress on Clinical Trials in Vienna, Austria. Im grateful to have Tim at our side and believe he will keep us on the right track in pursuing the necessary approvals to obtain commercialization in a timely fashion. About AVRA Medical Robotics, Inc. AVRA Medical Robotics, Inc., (OTCQB: AVMR) is transforming the practice of medicine by developing a fully autonomous surgical robotic system that robotizes a wide range of medical procedures currently being performed by human hands using surgical and non-surgical devices and instruments. AVRA is concentrating its research and development efforts to meet rising expectations of patients and practitioners alike for the precision, safety and speed offered by robotics and artificial intelligence as well as proprietary medical software architecture when combined with proven medical devices and surgical instruments. For more information visit the companys website at www.avramedical.com . Forward Looking Statements This press release may contain statements that are not historical facts and are considered forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words anticipate, assume, believe, estimate, expect, will, intend, may, plan, project, should, could, seek, designed, potential, forecast, target, objective, goal, or the negatives of such terms or other similar expressions to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or AVRAs future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Barry F. Cohen AVRA Medical Robotics, Inc. Chairman & CEO info@avramedical.com A top former US spy chief has warned Western democracies will fall behind China in developing the cutting-edge technology that is going to drive future economies unless governments intervene to help their private sectors. Retired admiral Mike Rogers, who ran the massive National Security Agency under both the Obama and Trump administrations, says China has got ahead of the West by having a "national strategy" for areas such as 5G mobile, artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The traditional Western economic model, in which the private sector shapes the direction of innovation with only a light government footprint, needs to change for the digital era, he says. Michael Rogers, then director of the National Security Agency (left) with then prime minister Malcolm Turnbull and then Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen (centre) in Washington, DC, in 2018. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen "We always said to ourselves in a Western democracy, 'We're capitalist societies, the role of government is not to get in the way of the private sector. And the private sector will out-innovate any competitor. Thats how we will compete," Mr Rogers told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Denpasar: The dispute over the purchase of the former Sari Club site grew increasingly bitter on Thursday, with the Bali Peace Park Association withdrawing its $4.9 million offer to buy the site, and the Indonesian owners blocking access to the land on Thursday. The site has stood vacant and has been used as a carpark since the 2002 terrorist bombing, which killed 202 people, including 88 Australians. A woman who used to run a food store on the Sari Club site collects her belongings in preparation for leaving. Credit:Amilia Rosa Negotiations between the site owner and the Association have grown increasingly fractious and the prospect of the peace park memorial being built seem to be receding, despite an intervention by Bali Governor Wayan Koster in support of the memorial. Association chairman David Napoli said on Thursday that he had been given an ultimatum by the owners: "Either put in an offer to buy the land or we are closing the site and preparing for heavy equipment to come in". Christchurch Year 13 environmental campaigner Mia Sutherland, who attended the Christchurch City Council last month as part of the School Strike 4 Climate organisation, said the landmark climate change bill was "a great step forward". However, she took issue with the bill's 2050 target for reducing emissions other than "biological methane" to "net zero".. "I'm aware that the bill is going to change in Parliament. But the 2050 date is a farce," she said. "A more realistic date is 2030, and that is what we are pushing for. I'd like to see 2025 ultimately, but it's not entirely practical." Loading She accepted that splitting methane from other emissions was something that had to be done to get New Zealand First and National on side. "We are an agricultural country it would be unfair to ignore that. And it's an issue that will come back to all of us, how we can support farmers to make changes." Extinction Rebellion Otautahi spokesman Rowan Brook said the 2050 target "doesn't reflect the fact that we are in an ecological emergency". "How can it be 2050 to be zero carbon when the conservative UN gave us 12 years to avoid catastrophe? "It's great that they have got cross-party support. But we need to move quickly. Extinction Rebellion is pushing for 2025 and that is very soon." University of Canterbury political scientist Associate Professor Bronwyn Hayward, an Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change author on the 1.5 degrees report, said the announcement of draft carbon-zero legislation was "hopeful and troubling". "At one level it is hopeful, because all parties have already expressed support for this legislation and we need cross-parliamentary agreement for effective climate action." She said the legislation set "a low bar" particularly over methane emissions. "We have to ask, 'Is this what it takes to get a cross-party agreement? Are we so timid that we can't envisage much beyond very modest steps?'" Even with the bill's modest, near-term, methane targets, it was likely New Zealand would "struggle to meet the ambitions of this legislation", Hayward said. Loading How it works The bill would set greenhouse gas emissions targets into law and force future governments to come up with plans to meet "stepping stone" targets on the way there, with an endpoint target of net zero long-lived emissions in 2050 and a large reduction in biological methane emissions - somewhere between a "provisional range" of 24 per cent and 47 per cent in gross reductions. The main enforcement mechanism each government has is envisioned to be the Emissions Trading Scheme. Biological methane emissions, which largely come from livestock belching, would need to be reduced by 10 per cent by 2030 from 2017 levels. The "provisional range" will be reviewed by the independent Climate Change Commission, which this bill sets up, in 2024. All other greenhouse gases - including carbon dioxide from power production and transport - would need to be reduced to "net zero" - meaning offsetting methods like forestry will be key. The difference in targets for the emissions speaks to both the scientific properties of methane and the political difficulty of meddling with the agricultural sector, which releases the vast majority of methane emissions. While methane is much more damaging than carbon on a per-tonne basis it decays a lot faster - in around a decade - meaning if emissions are kept stable the warming effect of the methane will not increase. The proposed law is based on the United Kingdom's Climate Change Act. It would compel future governments to set five-yearly "emissions budgets" that decrease over time until the endpoint target in 2050, as well as plans to meet the targets. Three of these would be in place at any one time - one for the immediate five years, then the next five years, then the next five years after that. Loading The independent Climate Change Commission would advise the Government on what these targets should be and how exactly governments should meet them. It would not have any independent power on its own. It's understood NZ First was particularly uncomfortable with talk about giving the commission Reserve Bank-like powers to set the emissions targets itself. Governments will also be required to set a plan for how they will respond to the various effects of climate change, including an increase in extreme weather events, droughts, fires, and sea-level rise. Shaw has been negotiating with National for months to get bipartisan support. There has also been some negotiation within the government, as NZ First had slowed the bill. He said New Zealanders had made it clear they wanted leadership and consensus on climate change legislation. Consumers Sue Ford for Installing Mileage Cheat Device and Misrepresenting Fuel Economy Ratings in 2019 Ford Ranger Trucks Hagens Berman and Hilliard Martinez Gonzales filed a class-action lawsuit on behalf of consumers accusing Ford of knowingly installing a mileage cheat device and misrepresenting fuel economy ratings in 2019 Ford Ranger trucks. The emissions-cheating device is also likely installed in F-150 series trucks and possibly all other Ford vehicles, according to attorneys. The class-action complaint, filed May 6, 2019 in the U.S. District for the Eastern District of Michigan, accuses Ford of deceiving consumers with false misrepresentations regarding its Ranger vehicles, which it marketed as its "All-New Ford Ranger Rated Most Fuel Efficient Gas-Powered Midsize Pickup in America." If you own a Ford vehicle, find out more about the class-action lawsuit. "Ford deceptively advertised its Rangers to consumers as 'best-in-class' in fuel economy," said Steve Berman, managing partner of Hagens Berman. "Ford knew that consumers pay a premium for fuel efficiency and that less fuel burned means less emissions, and therefore more profits." "Its own employees questioned its fuel efficiency calculations," Berman added. "Ford chose to blatantly ignore the clear warning signs it was given." ABOUT THE DEFECT The lawsuit states that Ford deliberately miscalculated and misrepresented factors used in vehicle certification testing in order to report that its vehicles used less fuel and emitted less pollution than they actually did. The certification test related cheating centers on the "Coast Down" testing and "Road Load" calculations. Coast Down testing measures the forces working against the vehicle by driving it up to speed, and then shifting to neutral, allowing it to coast down, being slowed by forces such as wind resistance, rolling resistance of the tires, and other forces working against the vehicle. Ford miscalculated "Road Load," which is a measure of those forces, defined as the force that is imparted on a vehicle while driving at a constant speed over a smooth, level surface from sources such as tire rolling resistance, driveline losses, and aerodynamic drag. This measure of forces acting against the vehicle during real-world driving is critical to the simulation of actual driving when a vehicle is tested in the laboratory. Ford's internal lab tests did not account for these forces, which lead to better-and entirely inaccurate-fuel economy projections, and claims that the vehicles emitted less pollution than they emitted in reality. AFFECTED VEHICLES The complaint states that the class is defined as all owners and lessors of 2019 Ford Ranger trucks. Because the F-150 is similarly failing to measure up to its advertised mileage, the cheating likely includes the F-150. The lawsuit states that the class is likely to be expanded and could potentially include all Ford vehicles certified for sale in the U.S. for a number of years. DECEPTIVE MARKETING Ford used the fuel efficiency ratings as a selling tool to entice consumers into purchasing the 2019 Ford Ranger claiming that it "is the no-compromise choice for power, technology, capability, and efficiency." Ford knew that to sell the Ranger, it had to tout it had fuel-efficiency, and a promise that was important to consumers. The suit says Ford deceived consumers in calling its Ranger "fuel efficient," and that without manipulating its testing procedures and ignoring common road conditions, Ford could not achieve the fuel economy and range it promised. Complaint: https://www.hbsslaw.com/uploads/case_downloads/ford-ranger/2019-05-06classactioncomplaint1123731.1.pdf JAPANESE CAR CRUISE-IN Petersen Museum May 26, 2019, Petersen Museum Sunday, May 26, 2019 8:00 AM 11:00 AM 6060 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA, 90036 United States Petersen Automotive Museum joins forces with Super Street Magazine for its annual Japanese Meet, set to take place on Sunday, May 26th. Last years event brought out hundreds of Socals finest street, show, and track cars, from Civics to Skylines and everything in between. Dont miss out on a chance to see the all new 2020 Toyota GR Supra, the first new Supra in the US in 21 years! *Japanese Cruise-In Tickets Include: Museum admission Complimentary Parking See every generation of the Toyota Supra in one place Unlimited Access to the Japanese Cruise-In All Japanese makes and models are welcome. Members of the Petersen may enjoy Member Early Access starting at 9 am. *Free event entry for Spectators; Parking and museum admission not included. If you see an emergency alert on your phone, TV or computer today, its because the Manitoba government is sending out a test message as part of Emergency Preparedness Week. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 8/5/2019 (961 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. If you see an emergency alert on your phone, TV or computer today, its because the Manitoba government is sending out a test message as part of Emergency Preparedness Week. The alert is scheduled to be sent at 1:55 p.m. The government hopes regularly testing these alerts will help Manitobans recognize how alerts should look and sound. Although the government will be sending the test message across all compatible cell phones, cable, satellite TV, radio and web feeds, not all Manitobans will get the alert. The province said this could be indicate a need for software updates, that a device isnt compatible, or it does not have a certain type of cell tower coverage. The government said it welcomes feedback about the alert system following the test. GUADALAJARA, Mexico, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE: PAC; BMV: GAP) (the Company or GAP) announces that at the General Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting held on April 23, 2019, the session approved a capital stock reduction of Ps. 1,592,493,907.41 (ONE BILLION, FIVE HUNDRED AND NINETY-TWO MILLION, FOUR HUNDRED AND NINETY-THREE THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED AND SEVEN PESOS 41/100 M.N.) and a consequent cash payment to shareholders of Ps. 3.03 (THREE PESOS AND 03/100 M.N.) per outstanding share representing the Companys shareholders equity. The capital reduction payment will take place on May 17, 2019, in accordance with the first resolution approved during the Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting, and corresponds to the twenty-seventh such payment. Company Description: Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) operates 12 airports throughout Mexicos Pacific region, including the major cities of Guadalajara and Tijuana, the four tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, La Paz and Manzanillo, and six other mid-sized cities: Hermosillo, Guanajuato, Morelia, Aguascalientes, Mexicali and Los Mochis. In February 2006, GAPs shares were listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol PAC and on the Mexican Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GAP. In April 2015, GAP acquired 100% of Desarrollo de Concesiones Aeroportuarias, S.L., which owns a majority stake in MBJ Airports Limited, a company operating Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica. In October 2018, GAP entered into a concession agreement for the operation of the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica. Subject to certain conditions precedent, GAP expects to take control of the operation of the Kingston airport in the last quarter of 2019. This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are not historical facts, and are based on managements current view and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance and financial results. The words anticipates, believes, estimates, expects, plans and similar expressions, as they relate to the company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the declaration or payment of dividends, the implementation of principal operating and financing strategies and capital expenditure plans, the direction of future operations and the factors or trends affecting financial conditions, liquidity or results of operations are examples of forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of management and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. There is no guarantee that the expected events, trends or results will actually occur. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions, and operating factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. In accordance with Section 806 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and article 42 of the Ley del Mercado de Valores, GAP has implemented a whistleblower program, which allows complainants to anonymously and confidentially report suspected activities that may involve criminal conduct or violations. The telephone number in Mexico, facilitated by a third party that is in charge of collecting these complaints, is 01-800-563-0047. The web site is www.lineadedenuncia.com/gap . GAPs Audit Committee will be notified of all complaints for immediate investigation. PLANO, Texas , May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) announced today that it will release its first quarter 2019 financial results on Tuesday, May 21, at 7:00 a.m. ET. The news release will be followed by a live conference call and webcast conducted by Chief Executive Officer Jill Soltau and Chief Financial Officer Bill Wafford that will begin at 8:00 a.m. ET. To access the conference call, please dial (844) 243-9275, or (225) 283-0394 for international callers, and reference 9029099 conference ID or visit the Company's investor relations website at https://ir.jcpenney.com. Supplemental slides will be available on the Companys investor relations website approximately 10 minutes before the start of the conference call. Telephone playback will be available for seven days beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call by dialing (855) 859-2056, or (404) 537-3406 for international callers, and referencing 9029099 conference ID. Investors and others should note that we currently announce material information using SEC filings, press releases, public conference calls and webcasts. In the future, we will continue to use these channels to distribute material information about the Company and may also utilize our website and/or various social media to communicate important information about the Company, key personnel, new brands and services, trends, new marketing campaigns, corporate initiatives and other matters. Information that we post on our website or on social media channels could be deemed material; therefore, we encourage investors, the media, our customers, business partners and others interested in our Company to review the information we post on our website as well as the following social media channels: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jcp) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/jcpnews). Any updates to the list of social media channels we may use to communicate material information will be posted on the investor relations page of the Company's website at www.jcpenney.com. Media Relations: (972) 431-3400 or jcpnews@jcp.com Investor Relations: (972) 431-5500 or jcpinvestorrelations@jcp.com About JCPenney: J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP), one of the nations largest apparel and home retailers, combines an expansive footprint of over 860 stores across the United States and Puerto Rico with a powerful e-commerce site, jcp.com, to deliver style and value for all hard-working American families. At every touchpoint, customers will discover stylish merchandise at incredible value from an extensive portfolio of private, exclusive and national brands. Reinforcing this shopping experience is the customer service and warrior spirit of approximately 95,000 associates across the globe, all driving toward the Company's mission to help customers find what they love for less time, money and effort. For additional information, please visit jcp.com. ### A College Station man was arrested Monday at Easterwood Airport after authorities said narcotics were found in his luggage. According to Texas A&M University police, around 5:15 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the McKenzie Terminal Building after a Transportation Security Administration supervisor was concerned about a container that was found in the suitcase of Imad Adel Abdelraouf, 26, of College Station. Authorities said the container held two marijuana blunts. An officer then located a bag that contained 80 milligrams of THC and a plastic bag containing hallucinogenic mushrooms, a report notes. Abdelraouf is charged with possession of THC oil, a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison; possession of fewer than 20 abuse units of psilocybin mushrooms, a state jail felony punishable by up to two years in a state jail; and misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is being held in the Brazos County Jail on $18,200 bond. Santiago, Chile, May 8, 2019- LATAM Airlines Group S.A. and its subsidiaries, ("LATAM Airlines Group" or "the Company") (NYSE: LTM / IPSA: LTM), the leading airline group in Latin America, today reported its preliminary monthly traffic statistics for April 2019 compared with the same period of 2018. System passenger traffic (measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK)) increased 8.0%, while capacity rose by 8.0%. As a result, the Company's load factor for the month fell 0.1 percentage points to 83.3%. The 30.1% increase in capacity in Spanish-speaking domestic markets (Domestic SSC) is mainly explained by the strike in Chile last year. Excluding Chile, Domestic SSC capacity rose 10.4%, in line with the rise of the first three months of the year. International passenger traffic accounted for approximately 58% of the month's total passenger traffic. It was a study abroad trip to Italy that unlocked Easterlings passion for art. She said her high school in Lubbock did not offer art, and her first true experience of an art museum was in college when she traveled to Florence and visited the Uffizi Gallery. We would never just travel to Dallas six hours away just to go to a museum. We just never did that, so I didnt even really know what the Uffizi was. I walk around a corner and there is The Birth of Venus by [Sandro] Botticelli, and its massive on this wall. It just hit me. It was one of those moments where, I dont know, just this powerful emotion just hit me. I had goosebumps and chills, and I just remember standing there in awe, just face to face with this massive artwork, and then its sister piece right there beside it, she said. In her class, she lets the students learn more about art from around the world with an art of the week in which she and the students look at the piece, discuss it and analyze it, noting the lesson exposes the students to more than just American or European art. When students leave her class, Easterling said, she just wants them to have an appreciation for art. Sylvia McMullen, who left her post as CEO of The Arts Council of the Brazos Valley earlier this year, has been arrested on two counts of credit card fraud, court documents show. According to an indictment, McMullen used an Arts Council credit card to make purchases in December. She was arrested Tuesday and released after posting $10,000 bail. The charge is a state jail felony, punishable by up to two years in a state jail and $10,000 in fines. The Arts Council board voted in January to end McMullen's employment. Gaines West, a local attorney hired by The Arts Council, said in a January statement that the board's vote came after McMullen admitted to "wrongdoing" involving one of the organization's credit cards that had been identified "through an existing set of internal checks and balances." She was immediately put on unpaid administrative leave "when the wrongdoing was uncovered," according to the statement. McMullen submitted her resignation that day. McMullen, though, says she notified staff of charges she had mistakenly made on a credit card and had taken steps to correct the issue. All but one of the nine people who spoke during Tuesdays public hearing were in support of creating an RMA in Brazos County. Dennis Christiansen, former director of the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, said data suggests congestion in Brazos County is about 25 years behind that of Austin, and we see congestion out there today that we didnt see five years ago. We have an opportunity to make some better choices than Austin did, Christiansen said. The RMA isnt the silver bullet that solves all of our problems, but it does allow us to implement some projects we would not otherwise be able to do. According to Texas A&M Transportation Institute data, congestion has grown 6% per year in Bryan-College Station since the early 1980s. Without taking additional action, congestion is estimated to double every 12 years. The countys population is anticipated to exceed 250,000 residents by the 2020 Census, with higher education being the main driver of growth. Representatives from the Texas A&M University System and Texas A&M Transportation Services said those entities also support the creation of an RMA to address transportation concerns. Were honoring those that have passed in the line of duty, Kirk said. Thats a sacrifice to a level that is hard to accept but is certainly important that we acknowledge. From the aspect of this being Correctional Officers week, we stand to recognize those who serve in our jails and our prisons, Kirk said. Those are really our thankless heroes. They play a critical part of our criminal justice system, and their work is taken for granted because its not seen. Were blessed to have talented, professional folks who are willing to do that job. Betty Bennett, a correctional officer at the Hamilton Unit, died from natural causes in February, and event organizers presented her family members with a plaque designed to honor her career. Kirk and others moved to offer condolences once the service ended. Eight trees that were planted in years past to honor those from the Hamilton Unit who had died or were killed while on duty stood behind the ceremony, and a ninth younger and smaller than the others had just been planted in honor of Bennett. An officer and a member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets led a riderless black horse on the grass, just next to the planted trees. But many Texans often bemoan the cameras $75 fines, and lawmakers like Bedford Republican state Rep. Jonathan Stickland, the bill's author, call the cameras unconstitutional because they violate the presumption of innocence and the right to confront your accuser. Fellow legislators cheered and jeered and some even shouted "liberty"and "freedom" as the notorious rabblerouser introduced his first bill to clear the lower chamber. "Ive been waiting a long time for this moment7 years," he said. "The people of Texas have been waiting a longer time than I have." HB 1631 tentatively passed in a 108 to 35 vote. A companion version of the legislation has already been winding through the Senate. Texas law requires curbside voting for people with disabilities. HB 2898, meanwhile, leaves it up to local election officials to decide whether to offer curbside voting for parents with young children. The bill also creates a study to be performed by the Texas Secretary of States office that would evaluate the best practices for curbside voting for people with children and report it to the legislature by December 2020. The bill would come at no cost to the state, according to an analysis by the state's Legislative Budget Board. Critics of the bill say it would create an additional task for election officials and could take away from the existing curbside voting process for people with disabilities. State Rep. Valoree Swanson, R-Spring, raised the concern at a House Elections Committee meeting in April that parents would bring their children just to skip the line in polling places with long waits. 2 Pregnant Chicago Women Are Missing, and Their Due Dates Have Passed Officials in Chicago are investigating the disappearance of three women, and two are pregnant with due dates that have passed, according to a report. Kierra Coles, 27, went missing on Oct. 2, 2018; Marlen Ochoa-Uriostegui, 19, went missing on April 23, 2019; and Chaunti Bryla, 43, went missing on March 7, 2019. The Chicago Police Department said Coles was three months pregnant and Ochoa-Uriostegui was nine months pregnant when they went missing, People magazine reported. Meanwhile, Bryla has an 11-year-old son, CBS Chicago reported. Family members said there were ATM withdrawals at several locations that had depleted her bank account. Police search for woman, 43, missing for over a week https://t.co/7wp31RHBtA pic.twitter.com/CjdRLQb5iJ WGN TV News (@WGNNews) March 25, 2019 She is described as black with a light complexion, about 5 feet 2 inches tall, and 200 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes. WGN reported that her family appeared to have left the home in a rush, leaving milk and other items outside of the refrigerator. The report noted that she has diabetes and high blood pressure. Ochoa-Uriostegui was last seen at Latino Youth Alternative High School and didnt show up to pick up her 3-year-old son from daycare, People noted. She is described as Hispanic, 5 feet 3 inches, 125 pounds, with brown eyes, brown hair, and a nose ring. Reports say her husband might have been the last person to contact her. According to ABC7, her family believes that a newborn baby found on a trash can on May 7 might belong to her. The newborn was found alive with its umbilical cord still attached when a mother and daughter spotted the baby, taking him to a nearby fire station. Ochoa-Uriosteguis family is requesting a DNA test on the child to see if it belongs to her. The baby was cold as concrete, said CFD Paramedic Field Chief Patrick Fitzmaurice, according to the report. I wasnt too optimistic, but like I said to the lieutenant, I wasnt ready to lose this one today, and neither were they and they worked very hard. Fire officials used heating pads and blankets immediately before taking him to a nearby hospital. And Coles, a U.S. Postal worker, called in sick on Oct. 2, but she was seen wearing her work uniform on surveillance camera. Coles is black, 5 feet 4 inches tall, 125 pounds, and has two tattoos. One says Lucky Libra on her back, and another is of a heart on her hand. People with information about any of the cases can call the Chicago Police Departments Special Victim Unit at 312-747-8274. Missing Children There were 464,324 missing children reported in the FBIs National Crime Information Center in 2017, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Under federal law, when a child is reported missing to law enforcement they must be entered into the database. In 2016, there were 465,676 entries. This number represents reports of missing children. That means if a child runs away multiple times in a year, each instance would be entered into NCIC separately and counted in the yearly total. Likewise, if an entry is withdrawn and amended or updated, that would also be reflected in the total, the center noted. In 2017, the center said it assisted officers and families with the cases of more than 27,000 missing children. In those cases, 91 percent were endangered runaways, and 5 percent were family abductions. About one in seven children reported missing to the center in 2017 were likely victims of child sex trafficking. 3 Women Buy a Box of Legos for a Child, Find $40,000 Worth of Meth Inside Three women purchased a box of Legos in Charleston, South Carolina, as a gift for a child but instead found methamphetamine worth $40,000 inside. The women purchased the toy box from a consignment shop and took it home unaware that they were transporting three pounds of meth, reported the Statesboro Herald. They took it and gave it to a young child, who opened the box, said Bulloch County sheriffs Investigator Jim Riggs. Women buy box of toys, find meth Statesboro Herald https://t.co/uid3fD9JOK Grice Connect (@GriceConnect) May 8, 2019 The three women reported the box to Bulloch County sheriffs Investigator Jason Borne who said that lengthy investigation with Drug Enforcement Agency agents revealed that the drugs were possibly sent to an incorrect address. Riggs said drug shipments are often mailed by drug dealers to empty or abandoned addresses from where they get picked up. But many times the United States Postal Service doesnt drop off the mail at such addresses. They dont leave them with the neighbors either and instead bring them back to the post office. Police: Box of Legos women bought at consignment shop contained $40K worth of meth: https://t.co/UPVohfme5K pic.twitter.com/GMhXjewNi3 WSB-TV (@wsbtv) May 8, 2019 Later these unclaimed packages are sold at auctions and the Drug Enforcement Agency agents believe thats where the Lego box containing the meth came from. Riggs said the child was upset when he opened the box, but the people who were meant to receive the mailed shipment of the drugs would have been even more disappointed. Police didnt hold the three women and the South Carolina consignment shop responsible as they were not aware of the actual contents of the box. Parrot Trained to Warn Drug Dealers In another strange drug-related incidence a parrot has been taken into custody following a police raid targeting drug dealers in northeast Brazil. The bird had been taught to warn its owners of police presence by shouting Mamae, policia! or Mama, police! according to a report from Globo, a major Brazilian television network. The bird was seized in Vila Irma Dulce on April 22, and sent to the Flagrant Center of Teresina, the capital of Brazilian state Piaui. Police say the parrot has not said anything while in custody. Major Mello of the 17th military police battalion told Globo that the animal impressed the police. He must have been trained for that. He began to scream as soon as the police approached, he said. According to the police, the parrots owner is a woman going by the name India who has been arrested twice for drug trafficking. Police say the woman was in bed due to an accident, and it was her husband who was using the parrot. The man, identified as Edvan, 30, was arrested after police found crack in the house and the mans teenage daughter was seized with marijuana hidden inside her underwear. Both of them were sent to the Flagrant Center, where police investigate flagrant crimes. The girl was later released. It is not the first time parrots have been used by drug dealers to warn of nearby law enforcement. In 2010, a parrot by the name of Lorenzo was seized after being caught warning drug traffickers of police presence in Columbia. Lorenzo was reportedly trained to call out every time a police officer went near the traffickers headquarters. When presented to media after his capture, he said, Run, run, the cat is going to eat you. When police caught on to the ruse, they were able to sneak past the avian lookout, where they discovered weapons, marijuana, and two more trained parrots, according to the Telegraph. Four men were also arrested in the raid. Authorities claimed that Lorenzo was one of nearly 1,700 parrots trained by drug traffickers that police have seized, the Telegraph reports. Epoch Times reporter Margaret Wollensak contributed to this report. Suspect Gary Anderson in Haines City, Fla., on May 4, 2019. (Courtesy of Haines City Police) 68-Year-Old Man Arrested After Crashing Mower Into Florida Police Car A Florida man has been arrested for drunk driving a lawn mower and crashing into a police vehicle on May 4. Gary Anderson, 68, was being questioned after Haines City Police found him drunk in a riding lawn mower that allegedly struck a police car outside the Rodriguez Fashion store about 7 p.m. local time. Haines City police: Man charged with DUI after crashing lawn mower into police cruiser https://t.co/viA4yeUbLT @theledger Amy Gehrt (@AmyGehrt) May 6, 2019 The police officer noticed something was wrong after hearing a loud bang from the direction of the parking lot. On returning to his vehicle he saw the bumper had fresh damage, and the mower was towing a black trailer carrying a red-and-white cooler, the Tampa Bay Times reported. Drunk Florida man accused of crashing riding mower into police car https://t.co/CpdUZX3qQZ Tampa Bay Times (@TB_Times) May 6, 2019 The officer claims Anderson admitted he had just struck the police cruiser and he was driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. The man denied causing any damage to the police car. Anderson then began laughing before becoming aggressive towards the officer. Drunk Florida man mowing grass crashes riding mower into a parked police car, blood alcohol limit .241, thats 3 times legal driving limit, charged with DUI on his lawn tractor. Tells officer F- it. Im drunk. Take me to jail. @FOX29philly https://t.co/SwV59NEieG Steve Keeley (@KeeleyFox29) May 7, 2019 Police took Anderson into custody and drove him to the Haines City Police Department. The suspect then claimed he had been poisoned and asked to be taken to the nearest hospital. Police transported him to the Heart of Florida Regional Medical Center in Davenport, 34 miles southwest of Orlando. On arrival Anderson agreed to do a Breathalyzer test, which showed his blood-alcohol level was 0.241more than three times higher than the level when a driver becomes impaired. Police also found cocaine in the suspects blood system. Anderson claims police planted the drug in him. And in news from my home state. Police: He was drunk. He rode a lawn mower. He hit a cop car. Hes a Florida man. (And he had cocaine in his system. Who would have guessed?) https://t.co/vjMAetdJFf George L. Duncan (@GeorgeLDuncan) May 7, 2019 According to officers, Andersons drivers license had been suspended since March 1978, when the Jimmy Carter Administration (D) was still in power, and hes been convicted twice of DUI. The suspect was also accused of using racial slurs against police. Anderson is being charged with committing his third DUI offense in a decade, driving with a suspended license, and declining to participate in a DUI test. He is being held at the Polk County jail and bail has been set at $3,000. Fort Lauderdale News Search Reviews (F*** It, Im Drunk, Take Me To Jail: Florida Man Crashes Lawn Mower Into Police Car) Fort Lauderdale News https://t.co/dirkZa3zC7 pic.twitter.com/UVCtcKE1LE 1 Fort Lauderdale (@1_ftl) May 7, 2019 Police commended the actions of the officer on duty. Im proud of the professional demeanor our officers showed when dealing with this heavily-intoxicated, belligerent offender, Haines City Police Chief Jim Elensky said in a Twitter post dated May 6. Its never a good idea to get behind the wheel drunk, even if that wheel is to a Craftsman, Massey Ferguson or John Deere. File photo showing Amanda Knox talking to reporters outside her mother's home, in Seattle, on March 27, 2015. Knox says she is returning to Italy for the first time since she was convicted and imprisoned, but ultimately acquitted, for the murder and sexual assault of her British roommate Meredith Kercher, in the university hilltop town of Perugia. (Ted S. Warren/AP Photo) Amanda Knox to Head Back to Italy for First Time Since Acquittal for Trial by Media Amanda Knox is heading back to Italy for the first time since being convicted and imprisonedand then ultimately acquittedof the murder of her British roommate. Knox, 31, will be a guest speaker at a June conference on the miscarriage of justice. The conference in Modena on June 14-15 is organized by the Criminal Chamber of the northern city and the Italy Innocence Project, which seeks to help people who have been convicted of crimes they did not commit. The Italy Innocence Project didnt yet exist when I was wrongly convicted in Perugia, Knox wrote in a tweet on Tuesday, May 7. Im honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time. The Italy Innocence Project didnt yet exist when I was wrongly convicted in Perugia. Im honored to accept their invitation to speak to the Italian people at this historic event and return to Italy for the first time.https://t.co/MGorAiDgKJ Amanda Knox (@amandaknox) May 7, 2019 Knox and her former boyfriend, Raffaele Sollecito, were initially found guilty of killing Meredith Kercher in the Italian town of Perugia in 2007. Citing a lack of evidence to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, Italys highest court eventually overturned their convictions in 2015. The European Human Rights Court ordered Italy to pay her $20,000 in damages in January 2019, saying she wasnt provided proper legal aid. Ms. Knox had been particularly vulnerable, being a foreign young woman, 20 at the time, not having been in Italy for very long and not being fluent in Italian, the court said in a statement at the time. The Italian court upheld a damaging conviction and a three-year sentence for falsely accusing a Congolese bar owner of the murder, leaving a cloud over her acquittal. Knox is now heading to Italy speak at an event on trial by media, and the role of the media in judicial errors. We wanted to invite her because we believe that she is an icon of trial by mass media, Guido Sola, one of the organizers of the event, told the ANSA news agency. Trials these days are often conducted outside the courtroom, by television networks, radio stations, and newspapers, without consideration for the objective facts. We didnt expect her to accept but were very happy because shell have a chance to speak about her experience in a way she has not done before, at least in Italy. In a follow-up tweet, the 31-year-old Seattle native made reference to her high-profile presence in the media: Here we go! Anyone know a thrift shop where I can find some of this paparazzi resistant clothing? Here we go! Anyone know a thrift shop where I can find some of this paparazzi resistant clothing?https://t.co/CdJhnSqtwx Amanda Knox (@amandaknox) May 7, 2019 Knoxs decision to come back to Italy was criticized by the Kercher familys lawyer. I think it is inappropriate and uncalled for, Francesco Maresca told The Telegraph. This young woman should accept the verdict that she received, which was extremely positive for her, and stop embarking on initiatives, which seem designed to garner publicity and attention, Maresca added. Knox was studying in Italy when Kercher, her roommate, was killed. Kercher was found nude under a blanket in her locked room, with her throat slit and having been sexually assaulted. The only person to have been convicted for Kerchers murder is Rudy Guede, a petty criminal born in the Ivory Coast but adopted by an Italian family in Perugia. Guede is serving a 16-year sentence for the murder. The Associated Press contributed to this report. (CNN) Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro has signed an executive order relaxing gun rules in the country, making it easier to import guns and increasing the amount of ammunition a person can buy in a year. Bolsonaro announced the signing of the decree at a Tuesday news conference, arguing "it is an individual right of the one who may want to have a firearm or seek the possession of a firearm... obviously respecting and fulfilling some requirements." The conservative provocateur, whose rhetorical targets include women and the LGBTQ community, appears to delivering on his campaign promise to loosen gun laws. Tuesday's executive order raised the limit on ammunition purchases from 50 to 5,000 cartridges for permitted guns, and 1,000 cartridges per year for restricted weapons. Among the other changes, it simplifies the procedure to transfer the ownership of a firearm, and eases import restrictions on firearms,"allowing free initiative, stimulating competition, rewarding quality and safety, as well as economic freedom, so privileged by the Lord," the Brazilian government wrote in a statement. Imported firearms had previously been banned if there was a similar locally-made weapon. The order, which goes into effect in 30 days, also eases restrictions for marksmen, collectors and hunters -- who were restricted from carrying loaded guns to shooting clubs. Bolsonaro had previously signed a decree in January making it easier to own a gun in the South American country. The far-right political outsider convincingly won his country's election last year, but has been criticized both at home and abroad for his anti-environment and anti-equality moves. Since coming into power in January, the 64-year-old signed decrees which could potentially strip away many LGBTQ civil rights protections and open the Amazon rainforest and other environmentally sensitive areas to commercial exploitation. LOS ANGELES, May 08, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP (GPM) reminds investors of the upcoming May 28, 2019 deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in the class action filed on behalf of American Renal Associates Holdings, Inc. (American Renal or the Company) (NYSE: ARA ) investors who purchased securities between August 10, 2016 and March 27, 2019, inclusive (the Class Period). If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. If you wish to learn more about this action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Lesley Portnoy, Esquire, at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or by email to shareholders@glancylaw.com , or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com . On March 8, 2019, American Renal disclosed that in October 2018 the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had requested documents and information regarding revenue recognition, collections, and other related matters. Also, the Company announced that it would delay filing its 2018 annual report while the Audit Committee investigated the Companys revenue recognition methods and accounting practices. On this news, shares of American Renal fell $2.05 per share, or more than 16%, to close at $10.46 per share on March 8, 2019, thereby injuring investors. Then, on March 27, 2019, American Renal announced that certain financial statements would be restated and that its Chief Financial Officer had resigned. The Audit Committee found that the Company did not appropriately reconcile its contractual allowance estimates for discounts and price concessions with cash subsequently received in respect of prior period patient claims. The Company also disclosed that the required adjustments would reduce operating income for fiscal 2017 by at least $10 million and would have a cumulative impact on fiscal years 2014 to 2018 in the range of negative $5 million to positive $5 million. Furthermore, the Company stated that it expected to revise related metrics such as revenue per treatment and days sales outstanding during the affected financial periods based on the Audit Committees ongoing review. On this news, shares of American Renal fell $3.69 per share, or 38%, to close at $6.01 per share on March 28, 2019, thereby further injuring investors. The complaint filed in this class action alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Companys business, operational and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) issues with American Renals accounting process for revenue recognition, collections, and related matters would give rise to an SEC investigation into the same, and increased regulatory scrutiny by the SEC; (2) American Renal's financial statements for the fiscal years 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 contained in its Annual Reports for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017, and its condensed consolidated financial statements in quarterly reports from 2016 through 2018 were false and could not be relied upon; (3) American Renal had material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting; and (4) as a result, defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/GPM_LLP . If you purchased or otherwise acquired American Renal securities during the Class Period you may move the Court no later than May 28, 2019 to request appointment as lead plaintiff in this putative class action lawsuit. To be a member of the class action you need not take any action at this time; you may retain counsel of your choice or take no action and remain an absent member of the class action. If you wish to learn more about this class action, or if you have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to the pending class action lawsuit, please contact Lesley Portnoy, Esquire, of GPM, 1925 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, by email to shareholders@glancylaw.com , or visit our website at www.glancylaw.com . If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number and number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. Migrants from Central America and Cuba walk on a highway during their journey towards the United States, in Tuzantan, Chiapas state, Mexico, on March 25, 2019. (Jose Torres/Reuters) Appeals Court Temporarily Allows Return of Asylum-Seekers to Mexico A federal appeals court has granted a request by the Trump administration to send asylum-seekers back to Mexico while they wait for a court to process their claimsa temporary victory for the president on the issue of immigration. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals on May 7 reversed a decision by a San Francisco judge that would have blocked the policy. In their ruling, the judges approved the policy (pdf), partly due to the Mexico governments commitment to ensure the safety of asylum seekers who are returned to that country. The plaintiffs fear substantial injury upon return to Mexico, but the likelihood of harm is reduced somewhat by the Mexican governments commitment to honor its international law obligations and to grant humanitarian status and work permits to individuals returned under the MPP, the judges ruled. We are hesitant to disturb this compromise amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Mexico because, as we have explained, the preliminary injunction (at least in its present form) is unlikely to be sustained on appeal. NEW: The 9th Circuit ruled the Trump admin can continue enforcing the remain in Mexico policy for some Central American asylum seekers while the case proceeds on appeal: https://t.co/AJHro8Sy6P Previously from @Haleaziz on this: https://t.co/rdYO1TvlbO pic.twitter.com/d0eksKX7J4 Zoe Tillman (@ZoeTillman) May 8, 2019 Although all three judges agreed to reverse the lower courts injunction, two of the judges appeared to disagree with some or all of the governments arguments for establishing the policy, in their judgment. The policy, known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), was enacted in Jan. 24, as an attempt to curb the flow of meritless asylum claims and stop thousands of illegal immigrants from being released into the country while they await a court hearing, often never to be seen again. The MPP was first trialed at the San Ysidro border crossing between San Diego and Tijuana, Mexico, but was expanded to the points of entry in Calexico, California, and El Paso, Texas, with plans to further extend it to other border crossings as well. After the policy was put in place, 11 Central Americans and legal advocacy groups initiated a lawsuit against the Trump administration, known as the case Innovation Law Lab v. Nielsen. On April 8, San Francisco-based U.S. District Judge Richard Seeborg ruled in favor of the Central Americans and advocacy groups, and ordered the policy to be suspended as of April 12 (pdf). Seeborg, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, said in his ruling that the MPP violates U.S. law by failing to evaluate dangers migrants face in Mexicowhich attorneys for the civil liberties groups have argued. They say the policy puts asylum-seekers lives at risk by forcing them to wait in Mexico, which is plagued with crime and violence. Meanwhile, the government called the ruling erroneous, arguing that it endangers the public during a humanitarian crisis at the U.S.Mexico border. The White House subsequently appealed Seeborgs order on April 10 (pdf). The May 7 ruling allows the policy to be in place while the appeal case is litigated, which is expected to take months and possibly years. The case could possibly end up in the Supreme Court. Migrant Protection Protocols The MPP, which is overseen by the Department of Homeland Security, is an unprecedented move aimed at addressing the humanitarian and security crisis at the southern border, former DHS Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen said in January, when the policy first took effect. This humanitarian approach will help to end the exploitation of our generous immigration laws, she said at the time. Nielsen, who left her role with the Trump administration last month, said the policy would allow the DHS to more effectively assist legitimate asylum-seekers and individuals fleeing persecution, as migrants with non-meritorious or even fraudulent claims would no longer have an incentive to make the journey. Unaccompanied minors are exempt from the policy. In October and November 2018, more than 10,000 unaccompanied minors were apprehended by Border Patrol entering the United States illegally. Moreover, the policy is also aimed to ease the overwhelmed Border Patrol facilities. CBP said agents encountered over 103,000 individuals on the southwestern border in the month of March. Of those, 92,000 were Border Patrol apprehensionsan increase of 35 percent compared to February. The agency also said that for the first half of fiscal 2019, agents arrested over 385,000 illegal immigrants at the southwest border, more than double the apprehensions during the same period last fiscal year. I have never witnessed the conditions we are facing on the southwest border. This is not a manufactured crisis, said Rodolfo Karisch, chief Border Patrol agent for the Rio Grande Valley sector, at a Senate hearing on April 9. On average, we apprehend 1,000 illegal border crossers per dayroughly the capacity of 17 commercial buses. Epoch Times Reporter Charlotte Cuthbertson and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Meghan McCain, Co-Host of 'The View', at the Netflix 'Medal of Honor' screening and panel discussion at the US Navy Memorial Burke Theater in Washington, on Nov. 13, 2018. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for Netflix) Are You Her Publicist?: Meghan McCain, Seth Meyers Have Heated Exchange About Ilhan Omar The View host Meghan McCain had a testy exchange with Late Night host Seth Meyers after he challenged her about previous repeated criticisms on Rep. Ilhan Omars (D-Minn.) controversial tweets. The interview, which started quite cordially, quickly became heated when Meyer claimed it was fairly dangerous for McCain to raise Omars name after she had some death threats against her. Do you think, you know, she has obviously now stated that she needs to be more careful with her language, dont you think other people who talk about her need to be more thoughtful as well? Or do you stand by those comments of tying her to this, her rhetoric, to this synagogue shooting? Meyers asked. In response, McCain said, I dont think I tied her to it in particular. Im calling out what I see as anti-Semitic language and when youre talking about But even after, you called her out even after she apologized for it. I do want to establish the timeline, Meyer interrupted. McCain replied saying, I think that Democrats are hedging on this and I think its very dangerous. And I think Chuck Schumer and I are in alignment about Israels stance in geopolitical politics. I think it is of the utmost importance and I think she is bringing her party to extremism on this. And I think we have to look to Europe and whats happening over there and in British politics. Anti-Semitism is very common and I see it happening over there and I worry about it happening over here. I stand by everything single thing Ive said and if that makes me unpopular in this room or in front of you, so be it. At one point during the exchange, Meyer asked McCain whether there was a way to talk about Israel without being considered anti-Semitic, to which McCain replied, Yeah. I just think you cant talk about Jews hypnotizing the world and all about the Benjamins,' referring to two of Omars controversial tweets. You do keep bringing up the two tweets she apologized for, Meyers interjected, and I think its a little unfair to her, especially because Are you her publicist? Are you her press person? McCain then asked. Meyers answers: No. Im just someone who cares about the fact that theres someone out there who is in a minority, who has had death threats against her, and I think we should all use the same language that youre asking her to be careful about her language. And I would ask that everyone to be careful about theirs. Omar previously drew widespread condemnation for anti-Semitic tropes on social media, where she implied that a prominent pro-Israel lobby group, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), paid off lawmakers for their support of Israel. She later sparked more outrage when she accused some politicians in Washington who supported Israel as having dual loyalty. The freshman congresswoman has since apologized for her comments. After a deadly shooting at a San Diego synagogue last month, McCain brought up Omar in a discussion about the shooting, suggesting that Omars rhetoric was also a recent example of anti-Semitism. I do think when we are having conversations about anti-Semitism we should be looking at the most extreme on both sides, and I would bring up Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and some of her comments that got so much attention, she said on ABC program The Week. McCain also argued that Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) wasnt hard enough in her response to [Omar] trafficking in anti-Semitic language. McCains husband, Ben Domenech, who is the publisher of the Federalist, criticized Meyers in a series of angry tweets, which have now been deleted, reported Fox News. He apologized on May 8 saying, I love my wife. I apologize for rage tweeting about how Seth Meyers treated her. I dont like him, I think hes a hack, but I shouldnt have done that. Im sorry to anyone I offended. I love my wife. I apologize for rage tweeting about how Seth Meyers treated her. I dont like him, I think hes a hack, but I shouldnt have done that. Im sorry to anyone I offended. Ben Domenech (@bdomenech) May 8, 2019 Arizona Senate Passes Bill Proclaiming Porn a Public Health Crisis The Arizona state Senate passed a bill on May 6 that denounces pornography as a public health crisisthe same status thats held by the opioid epidemic. Pornography is a crisis leading to a broad spectrum of individual and public health impacts, the bill states. Pornography perpetuates a sexually toxic environment that damages all areas of our society. The bill goes on to say that recent research indicates that pornography is potentially biologically addictive and requires increasingly shocking material for the addiction to be satisfied. This has led to increasing themes of risky sexual behaviors, extreme degradation, violence, and child pornography. Due to the advances in technology and the universal availability of the internet, children are being exposed to pornography at an alarming rate, leading to low self-esteem, eating disorders, and an increase in problematic sexual activity at ever-younger ages, the bill reads. It also said that pornography users face potential detrimental effects such as toxic sexual behaviors, emotional, mental, and medical illnesses, and difficulty forming or maintaining intimate relationships. The Senate approved House Concurrent Resolution 2009 by a vote of 16-13, with one abstention. It was first passed in the Arizona House of Representatives on Feb. 25, by 32-28. The resolution was first read in the House on Feb. 5, and Rep. Michelle Udall (R-Mesa) was the primary sponsor. Like the tobacco industry, the pornography industry has created a public health crisis, Udall told lawmakers, according to the Arizona Republic. Pornography is used pervasively, even by minors. The resolution advised the state and the country to systematically prevent exposure and addiction to pornography and educate people about its harms, and develop pornography recovery programs. Sen. Sylvia Allen (R-Snowflake) acknowledged that the resolution wont explicitly outlaw pornography production or consumption. However, she says the measure will have an effect because its the first time were making a statement about the epidemic of pornography, according to the Arizona Republic. Billions of dollars worldwide are being made upon this industry that is poisoning the minds of our citizens, Allen told the newspaper, adding that porn is the root problem for many of the other problems that were experiencing. She said that porn contributes to sexual activity at young ages, sexually transmitted diseases, and unplanned pregnancies. It has morphed into something horrible, she said. Supporters say they hope it opens the door to new restrictions on porn. Since 2016, 10 other states, including Florida, Pennsylvania, and Kansas, have declared pornography a public health crisis. The measures were based on model legislation written by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation. The group says porn is directly connected to other acts of exploitation. But Arizona Democrats opposed the bill and said that it was distracting officials from more important public health issues. Oh, the things that Arizona Republicans choose to prioritize, the Arizona Democratic Party tweeted on May 7. Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison briefs media about the flooding situation in Queensland during a press conference in Sydney on Feb. 8, 2019. (Saeed Khan/AFP/Getty Images) Australias Prime Minister Egged and 70-Year-Old Woman Knocked Off Her Feet Ahead of General Election CANBERRA, AustraliaAustralias prime minister was hit on the head with an egg, and a 70-year-old woman was knocked off her feet on May 7 during a protest ahead of a general election next week. The egg appeared to strike Prime Minister Scott Morrison on the back of the head and then bounce off without breaking as he spoke to a rural womens conference in the town of Albury. Bystander Margaret Baxter was knocked to the floor as security guards grabbed the 24-year-old woman accused of throwing the egg, Amber Holt, and carried her outside. Morrison helped Baxter to her feet. It was unclear what Holt was protesting. Outside the hall, she told reporters she did not mean to knock anyone down. She described throwing the egg as the most harmless thing you can do. Police said Holt was charged with common assault and possession of a prohibited drug, cannabis. She was released on bail and is to appear at Albury Local Court on May 27. Morrison called for more civility in the election campaign. Pardon the pun, but I dont want to over-egg this thing. At the same time, what my concern was, for Margaret and the disregard the individual seemed to have for those others who were in the room, Morrison told reporters. Weve just got to disagree better about these things. Just because you have a difference of view to someone doesnt mean you have to engage in these sorts of ugly types of protests, he added. Baxter later said she had been knocked over by a cameraman. She said she landed on her hip but was not injured. The prime minister helped me get up off the floor and I was very grateful for his assistance, Baxter said. I recently had surgery on my stomach so my main concern was holding my stomach to make sure it didnt get hit or somebody land on it, she added. If re-elected on May 18, Morrison has promised to change laws to prevent vegan activist organization Aussie Farms from publishing the addresses of farms it accuses of animal cruelty and encouraging the public to harass the farmers. Morrison had earlier wrote on Twitter, Our farmers have to put up with these same idiots who are invading their farms and their homes. Morrison conceded that Holt was unlikely to be a vegan since she threw an egg. Opposition leader Bill Shorten condemned the protest as appalling and disgraceful behavior. In Australia, we have violence-free elections, Shorten told reporters. People are allowed to protest peacefully, but anything approaching violence is unacceptable. Morrison was campaigning in an electorate held by his conservative Liberal Party. The party fears that an independent candidate could win the seat at the election. Australias PM, Opposition Leader Prepare for First Live Debate Ahead of May 18 Election Prime Minister Scott Morrison will debate Labor leader Bill Shorten in Perth on Monday in a bid to win over undecided voters. Voter concerns about tax and climate policy are expected to dominate the first leaders debate of the federal election campaign on Monday night. Scott Morrison and Bill Shorten will go head to head in Perth at 7 p.m. AEST in a debate hosted by the Seven Network and The West Australian, and televised on 7TWO. Readers of The West Australian have nominated questions, mostly around the themes of Labors franking credits policy, the economy, tax, border protection, and climate. Policy costings are also likely to be a focus. Im just going to be myself and be upfront with people, Morrison told Nova radio on Monday. I imagine were going to talk a lot about the GST. The distribution of GST revenues has been a big issue for Western Australia, with both major parties promising a better deal. Shorten told reporters in Perth he would be talking about the big picture. Tonight is debate nightIm really looking forward to a positive debate, outlining competing visions for what we can do to help the Australian people, he said. He said childcare should be put ahead of unsustainable tax loopholes at the top end of town. Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Opposition Leader Bill Shorten will face off in the first leaders debate in Perth on April 29. @sunriseon7 pic.twitter.com/C6M55qenxh Matt Tinney (@Matt_Tinney) April 16, 2019 With early voting starting on Monday, the debate takes on greater importance. A Newspoll released on Sunday night in The Australian shows the coalition has narrowed the polling gap with Labor, trailing only 51 percent to 49 percent in the two-party preferred vote. Another Newspoll on Australias preferred prime minister showed Morrison leading Shorten 45 percent to 37 percent. By Rod McGuirk AAP reporter Angus Livingston contributed to this report. Bitcoin's properties as a store of value got software developer Jimmy Song interested. Now he programs for Bitcoin core. (Karen Bleier/AFP/Getty Images) Bitcoin Bounds Toward $6,000 as More Institutions Embrace Tokens Bitcoin climbed to a fresh 2019 high, approaching the $6,000 level for the first time since November on most cryptocurrency exchanges. The largest digital coin advanced as much as 4.7 percent to $5,961, according to Bloomberg composite pricing. Most of the other highly-traded tokens also pushed higher. The worlds most-followed cryptocurrency has been drawing attention from technical analysts and conventional investment firms as it claws its way back from last years 74 percent plunge that took it below $4,000. It has surged more than 50 percent in 2019. Bitcoin is testing new near-term highs because the overall institutional involvement is becoming stronger and stronger, Jehan Chu, managing partner at Kenetic Capital, said by phone from Hong Kong. Were just seeing institution after institution lining up to the thesis of digital currency, and Bitcoin is the standard bearer. Fidelity Investments, which began a custody service to store Bitcoin earlier this year, plans to buy and sell it for institutional customers within a few weeks, according to a person familiar with the matter. Fidelity alone doesnt move the entire needle, but Fidelity with E*Trade and Ameritrade and Robin Hood and a whole host, said Chu, whose firm is a blockchain investment and advisory company. Youre seeing a critical mass of these types of asset managers and brokers providing retail exposure and retail access to crypto. Some investors who expect Bitcoin to break above $6,000 see it quickly finding a new resistance level. The token will likely find fresh headwinds in the $6,000-$6,500 range, said Charlie Morris, a fund manager and founder of cryptocurrency price discovery site ByteTree.com in London. It would be unsurprising if that former support became resistancesomething that is quite normal in markets, Morris said. The crypto market, however, is not normal in the sense of having uniform pricing or ease of arbitrage, as are some of the securities exchanges that handle the biggest conventional assets, like blue-chip stocks or benchmark sovereign bonds. On Bitfinex, for example, one of the larger crypto exchanges, Bitcoin is being quoted at a premium of about $350 to Bloomberg composite prices. In fact, it has traded above the $6,000 level on Bitfinex since May 3. The platform is subject to speculation that investors are paying extra because theyre desperate to exiting the Tether stablecoin on Bitfinex. Several affiliated companies which control both the exchange and the stablecoin are under investigation by New York officials for allegedly engaging in a cover-up to hide hundreds of millions in losses, casting a shadow over the pledge that each Tether is worth $1. By Todd White & Eric Lam Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross (1st R), U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer (2nd R), and other U.S. officials meet with Chinese Vice Premier Liu He (1st L), Central Bank Governor Yi Gang (2nd L), and other Chinese officials in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 30, 2019. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) China Backtracked on Almost All Aspects of US Trade Deal: Sources WASHINGTON/BEIJINGThe diplomatic cable from Beijing arrived in Washington late on May 3, with systematic edits to a nearly 150-page draft trade agreement that would blow up months of negotiations between the worlds two largest economies, according to three U.S. government sources and three private sector sources briefed on the talks. The document was riddled with reversals by China that undermined core U.S. demands, the sources told Reuters. In each of the seven chapters of the draft trade deal, China had deleted its commitments to change laws to resolve core complaints that caused the United States to launch a trade war: Theft of U.S. intellectual property and trade secrets; forced technology transfers; competition policy; access to financial services; and currency manipulation. President Donald Trump responded in a tweet on Sunday vowing to raise tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percenttimed to land in the middle of a scheduled visit by Chinas Vice Premier Liu He to Washington to continue trade talks. The United States said on Wednesday the higher tariffs would go into effect on Friday, according to a notice posted on the Federal Register. Trump said on Wednesday that China is mistaken if it hopes to negotiate trade later with a Democratic presidential administration. The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, Trump tweeted. Trump also said he would be happy to keep tariffs on Chinese imports in place. The stripping of binding legal language from the draft struck directly at the highest priority of U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who views changes to Chinese laws as essential to verifying compliance after years of what U.S. officials have called empty reform promises. Lighthizer has pushed hard for an enforcement regime more like those used for punitive economic sanctionssuch as those imposed on North Korea or Iranthan a typical trade deal. This undermines the core architecture of the deal, said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the talks. Process of Negotiation Spokespeople for the White House, the U.S. Trade Representative and the U.S. Treasury Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a briefing on Wednesday that working out disagreements over trade was a process of negotiation and that China was not avoiding problems. Geng referred specific questions on the trade talks to the Commerce Ministry, which did not respond immediately to faxed questions from Reuters. Lighthizer and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin were taken aback at the extent of the changes in the draft. The two cabinet officials on Monday told reporters that Chinese backtracking had prompted Trumps tariff order but did not provide details on the depth and breadth of the revisions. Liu last week told Lighthizer and Mnuchin that they needed to trust China to fulfill its pledges through administrative and regulatory changes, two of the sources said. Both Mnuchin and Lighthizer considered that unacceptable, given Chinas history of failing to fulfill reform pledges. One private-sector source briefed on the talks said the last round of negotiations had gone very poorly because China got greedy. China reneged on a dozen things, if not more ., the source said. After 20 years of having their way with the U.S., China still appears to be miscalculating with this administration. Further Talks This Week The rapid deterioration of negotiations rattled global stock markets, bonds and commodities this week. Until Sunday, markets had priced in the expectation that officials from the two countries were close to striking a deal. Investors and analysts questioned whether Trumps tweet was a negotiating ploy to wring more concessions from China. The sources told Reuters the extent of the setbacks in the revised text were serious and that Trumps response was not merely a negotiating strategy. On Wednesday morning, U.S. stock market indexes were mostly weaker again, pointing to a third straight day of losses on Wall Street. The S&P 500 has fallen more than 2 percent so far this week. Yields on benchmark U.S. Treasury securities fell to the lowest in more than a month. Chinese negotiators said they couldnt touch the laws, said one of the government sources, calling the changes major. Changing any law in China requires a unique set of processes that cant be navigated quickly, said a Chinese official familiar with the talks. Liu is set to arrive in Washington on Thursday for two days of talks that just last week were widely seen as pivotala possible last round before a historic trade deal. Now, U.S. officials have little hope that Liu will come bearing any offer that can get talks back on track, said two of the sources. To avert escalation, some of the sources said, Liu would have to scrap Chinas proposed text changes and agree to make new laws. China would also have to move further toward the U.S. position on other sticking points, such as demands for curbs on Chinese industrial subsidies and a streamlined approval process for genetically engineered U.S. crops. The U.S. administration said the latest tariff escalation would take effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday (0401 GMT), hiking levees on Chinese products such as internet modems and routers, printed circuit boards, vacuum cleaners and furniture. The Chinese reversal may give China hawks in the Trump administration, including Lighthizer, an opening to take a harder stance. Mnuchin, who has been more open to a deal with improved market access, appeared in sync with Lighthizer in describing the changes to reporters on Monday, while still leaving open the possibility new tariffs could be averted with a deal. Trumps tweets left no room for backing down, and Lighthizer made it clear that, despite continuing talks, come Friday, there will be tariffs in place. By David Lawder, Jeff Mason & Michael Martina Police and others are seen outside a recreation center where students are reunited with their parents, in the Denver suburb of Highlands Ranch, Colo., after a shooting at STEM School Highlands Ranch May 7, 2019. (David Zalubowski/AP) Colorado School Shooting Suspect Shared Anti-Trump Facebook Post, Report Says The 18-year-old suspect in a school shooting in Colorado shared at least one social media post that was critical of President Donald Trump and Christians. According to the New York Post, Devon Ericksons Facebook page showed no indication that he wanted to gun down his classmates at STEM School Highlands Ranch. It noted that he posted items about the Denver Broncos, paintball, and appearing in community plays. One day after Election Day in 2016, he shared a video from Seth Myers Late Night show that criticized Trump. The Post highlighted one post he made in May 2014 that blasted Christianity and the Bible. Devon Erickson, Colorado school shooting suspect, shared anti-Trump post on Facebook https://t.co/EYlll7VxJ6 pic.twitter.com/FqvqCKysWX New York Post (@nypost) May 8, 2019 In 2015, he also shared a pro-Obama post from left-wing Facebook page Occupy Democrats. In just six years I nearly tripled the stock market, cut unemployment in half, ended two wars, cut the uninsured rate in half, brought gas down to $2.75, and cut the annual Bush deficit by two-thirds. Oh, and I got bin Laden, said the post, which included a photo of Obama. The report didnt highlight any other posts referring to social issues or politics. In the shooting, one student was killed and nine others were hurt when he and another underage suspect allegedly opened fire inside a K-12 school on the afternoon of May 7. The lone fatality, 18-year-old Kendrick Castillo, died while he and two others tried to take down Erickson, CBS News reported. He was amazing, Cecilia Bedard, who knew the victim, told The Associated Press. He was honestly the sweetest kid I ever met. Never said a mean joke. Student Michael Schwartz said Erickson, in the past, had spoken about hurting other people. I always thought he was just messing around and stuff, but sometimes he did hint at it here and there, Schwartz said. After about two minutes following the shooting, police arrived on the scene. We did struggle with the suspects to take them into custody and they are in custody right now, Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock told CBS. Fernando Montoya told the outlet that his son was shot three times, but he was released from the hospital. All of a sudden a guy pulled I believe a pistol, Im not sure, out of a guitar case and start to shoot, Montoya said. The shooting occurred about eight miles from Columbine High School where 12 students and a teacher died in a mass shooting 20 years ago. The Associated Press reported that two handguns were used in the shooting, but Spurlock noted that the suspects had a number of weapons, without elaborating. On May 7, officials identified the juvenile suspect, who has not been named, believing she was a boy at first. We originally thought the juvenile was a male by appearance, Spurlock told The Associated Press. Cyprus New Police Chief Apologizes Over Serial Killer Case NICOSIACyprus new police chief on May 7 apologized over the handling of the countrys serial killer case amid accusations of negligent police work that may have allowed the suspect to claim more victims. Kypros Michaelides offered the apology to the families of seven foreign women and girls who an army captain has confessed to killing. He said that police had failed to protect the victims, adding that those who failed to properly investigate their disappearances will be held accountable. We fully understand the publics justified reaction, Michaelides said at a ceremony marking his appointment. Ill do whatever is humanly possibleto restore the ground we lost, to restore the publics trust in the police, Michaelides said, adding that the force operates without prejudice, racism or sexism. Last week, President Nicos Anastasiades fired Michaelides predecessor while the justice minister resigned amid strong criticism that police failed to properly investigate initial missing persons reports that could have tracked down the 35-year-old suspect before he could kill again. Among the victims were a 36-year-old Romanian woman and her 8-year-old daughter who disappeared in 2016. But police apparently told people who inquired about the whereabouts of the mother and daughter that they had good reason to believe both had absconded to the breakaway, Turkish Cypriot north of the ethnically divided country. Five of the suspects victims disappeared after that. The bodies of two Filipino women were discovered by chance last month in an abandoned mineshaft, sparking the investigation. The suspect told investigators he dumped three of his victimsthe Romanian mother and daughter as well as another Filipino womanin a toxic lake after placing their bodies in suitcases. Divers have so far recovered two suitcases from the lake, including a small bag that authorities believe contains the remains of the 8-year-old. The suspect also led police to the decomposed body of a woman believed to be from Nepal down a pit in a military firing range. Authorities are also looking in a reservoir for the body of the 6-year-old daughter of Mary Rose Tiburcio, 38, who was found in the shaft. Visiting the toxic lake May 7, Michaelides said police will spare no effort until the case is fully solved. Weve dug in our heels and thats why were here and well stay here until the very end, he said. By Menelaos Hadjicostis House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) (C) presides over a mark-up hearing where members may vote to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress for not providing an unredacted copy of special prosecutor Robert Mueller's report in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill May 08, 2019 in Washington. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Democrat-led Committee Asks House to Find Barr in Contempt of Congress Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee voted on May 8 to recommend the full House of Representatives to vote to find Attorney General William Barr in contempt of Congress. In the resolution recommending the contempt vote, the Democrats accuse Barr of failing to comply with a subpoena for the full, non-redacted report by special counsel Robert Mueller. Republicans say the subpoena forces Barr into a legal Catch-22, since the attorney general would break federal law by disclosing grand jury material. In the hours leading up to the vote, the White House moved to assert executive privilege over the full special counsel report. A president can assert executive privilege to withhold information concerning internal executive branch deliberations. The Justice Department is part of the executive branch. With the resolution adopted in a 2416 vote, the full House can hold a vote to find Barr in contempt. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the top Democrat in Congress, told The Washington Post that Barr should be held in contempt. Faced with Chairman Nadlers blatant abuse of power, and at the Attorney Generals request, the President has no other option than to make a protective assertion of executive privilege, said White House press secretary Sarah Sanders. Barr released the 448-page Mueller report with redactions in April. The special counsel concluded that there is no evidence of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia. Mueller also decided not to bring obstruction charges against the president. Barr and Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein found that Muellers report provided insufficient evidence to bring an obstruction case. In response to Democrats demands to see beneath the redactions in the report, Barr offered lawmakers to view a minimally redacted version of the document. House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) argued that the rules for viewing the document were too strict. The Justice Department warned Nadler that if he moved to a contempt vote, the department would ask the White House to assert executive privilege. The department did so as the committee hearing opened. This decision represents a clear escalation in the Trump administrations blanket defiance of Congresss constitutionally mandated duties, Nadler said. Republicans accuse Democrats of attempting to discredit Barr because the attorney general is reviewing the origins of the TrumpRussia investigation and looking into allegations that the Obama administration spied on Trumps campaign. They also say the Democrats are using the contempt proceedings to score points for the 2020 election by distracting from the Trump administrations successes on the economic front. I think its about trying to destroy Bill Barr because Democrats are nervous hes going to get to the bottom of everything, said Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio). In testimony before Congress, Barr has said that there was a failure of leadership at the FBI during the TrumpRussia investigation. The attorney general also said that the Trump campaign was spied on and that there was a basis for his concern. He suggested that the FBI may have conducted surveillance that was both unauthorized and politically motivated. In addition to defying the subpoena, Barr declined to testify before the Judiciary Committee after the Democrats refused to back down from a demand that staff attorneys be allowed to question the attorney general. Barr testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on May 1 and volunteered to appear before the House Judiciary Committee before Democrats raised the additional demands. When the House was controlled by Republicans, it voted in 2012 to hold Eric Holder, attorney general under Democratic President Barack Obama, in contempt for failing to turn over subpoenaed Justice Department documents about a gun-running investigation called Operation Fast and Furious. It was the first time that Congress had held the top U.S. law enforcement official or any Cabinet member in contempt. Compared to the pace of the proceedings in the Holder case, Democrats are moving to contempt proceedings at lightning speed, according to House Judiciary Committee ranking member Doug Collins (R-Ga.) In Holders case, the committee moved to contempt proceedings 450 days after requesting information from Holder. The Democrats waited 43 days before starting the process for a contempt recommendation. According to Jordan, Mueller is expected to appear before the committee on May 15. Democratic sources in Congress said that the special counsel tentatively agreed to testify on May 15. Trump has said Mueller should not testify. Barr has said he isnt against the special counsel appearing before Congress. Ex-Danske CEO Borgen Charged Over Money Laundering Case: Report COPENHAGENDanish prosecutors have charged Thomas Borgen, former chief executive of Danske Bank, over his involvement in one of the worlds biggest money-laundering scandals, newspaper Borsen reported on May 7, citing his lawyer. Borgen is the first person to be charged in a case that involves suspicious transactions of some 200 billion euros ($224 billion) that passed through Danske Banks Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015. Denmarks biggest bank is being investigated by authorities in several other countries including the United States, where it could face major fines. Shares in Danske Bank have more than halved since March last year, and on May 7 fell to their lowest since August 2013 following the Borsen report, which did not specify the nature of the charges against the banks former CEO. Borgen, who had been in charge of Danske Banks international operations, including Estonia, between 2009 and 2012, resigned in September after an investigation revealed the scale of the suspicious payments. Prosecutors raided Borgens home on March 12, the report quoted the lawyer as saying. Borsen also cited unnamed sources as saying the Danish prosecutor had charged at least two other former managers at Danske Bank in relation to the money laundering case, but did not give any names. Borgen and his lawyer did not respond to calls, while the prosecutor and Danske Bank both declined to comment. Denmarks state prosecutor filed preliminary charges against Danske Bank itself in November for alleged violations of the countrys anti-money laundering act in relation to its Estonian branch. The prosecutor said at the time he would clarify whether individuals could be held responsible. The money laundering scandal has spread to Sweden where Swedbank in March dismissed its chief executive over allegations its Baltic accounts were used to launder money. By Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen Description GIS - 08 May, 2019: The importance of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) in promoting policies, standards and practices of good governance was highlighted, this morning, by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr Nandcoomar Bodha , at the opening of the APRM validation workshop in Domaine Les Pailles. Stakeholders from the public and private sectors and the civil society are participating in the validation workshop with a view to endorse the APRM progress report which has been prepared and submitted by the APRM National Governance Committee. The National Governance Committee (NGC) was led by its Chairperson, Mr Paramasiva Chengan, and four volunteer-driven APRM working groups based at the University of Mauritius (UOM). In his opening remarks, Minister Bodha stated that the APRM is an excellent innovation tool that will enable Mauritius and other African countries to uphold the highest standards of good governance as well as consolidate the rule of law and democracy. On this score, he spoke of the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council Bill which was voted yesterday in the National Assembly, having as objective to promote high quality research and foster innovation in the national interest. Elaborating on the mechanism, the Minister pointed out that it will foster peer learning and sharing through constructive dialogue leading to political stability, high and inclusive economic growth, sustainable development and accelerated sub-regional and continental economic integration in Africa . He appealed to the public and private stakeholders, as well as the civil society, to bring collective support for the endorsement of the APRM progress report for Mauritius. Also present at the event, the Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Ambassador Mrs Usha Dwarka Canabady, commended the collaborative work of the UOM and the Mauritius Council of Social Service for their engagement in the progress report of the APRM. She highlighted that Mauritius acceded to the APRM at the 8th Summit of the New Partnership for Africa's Development Heads of State and Government Implementation Committee in Maputo, Mozambique in 2003 adding that it was among the first group of countries that joined the mechanism . As at November 2018, the APRM comprised 37 Member States who have voluntarily acceded to the mechanism. The four thematic areas of the APRM are namely: Democracy and Political Governance, Economic Governance and Management, Corporate Governance, and Broad-based Sustainable Socio-economic Development. Security officials and members of a bomb disposal team survey the site after a blast in Lahore, Pakistan May 8, 2019. (Mohsin Raza/Reuters) Explosion Near Sufi Shrine Kills 9 in Lahore, Pakistan: Police At least nine people were killed by a blast targeting a security checkpoint outside a major Sufi shrine in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore on May 8, officials said. The blast, one day after the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, took place close to the Data Darbar, one of the largest shrines in South Asia, which was cordoned off by security forces. Police was the prime target in this attack. We are collecting forensic pieces of evidence to ascertain the nature of the blast. This attack has left nine dead and 24 injured, said Ashfaq Khan, deputy inspector general of police operations in Lahore. Many people were wounded and Muhammad Farooq, a spokesman for the citys rescue services, said at least seven or eight of them were in critical condition. *BLAST IN LAHORE* 3 dead 15 injured reported in an explosion that apparently targeted an elite police unit near a famous Sufi shrine in Lahore #Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/9ujgPF1rE9 Arshid Bhat (@ArshidB41052297) May 8, 2019 Sufis, who follow a mystical form of Islam that has been practiced in Pakistan for centuries, have been attacked by hardline Islamic terrorists in the past but there was no immediate claim of responsibility. Sunni extremists view Sufism with hostility and have carried out attacks on Sufi celebrations and shrines across the Muslim world, The Associated Press reported. Police put up checkpoints on main thoroughfares leading to the shrine and hospitals were placed on alert, officials said. Militant violence has declined sharply in Pakistan following a sustained crackdown in recent years and over the past two years Lahore, Pakistans second largest city, has been free of the kind of attacks that were once common. However, officials warned that the attack highlighted the need for vigilance by people gathering for worship during Ramadan. People should remain aware of their surroundings when going to pray, said Punjab provincial minister Mian Aslam. Khan said authorities had maintained a general security alert but there had been no specific warning about a threat to the Data Darbar, which attracts large numbers of visitors every year. TV footage showed a badly damaged police vehicle that authorities said was the target. It seems police officers who were doing their routine duty outside the Data Darbar shrine were the target, Lahore police chief Ghazanfar Ali said, adding that some pilgrims and passers-by were among those wounded. He said the death toll could rise as some of the victims are in critical condition. Raja Basharat, a senior provincial minister in the Punjab government, said police were still trying to determine the nature of the attack, which might have been a suicide bombing. Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the bombing. Pakistanis in large numbers visit the shrine, where a pair of suicide attacks in 2010 killed and wounded dozens of people. Lahore is the capital of eastern Punjab province, which has seen similar attacks in recent years. Family Believes Newborn Found Atop Garbage Bin May Belong to Missing 19-Year-Old Woman A missing 19-year-old woman may possibly be the mother of a newborn baby found abandoned on top a garbage can in a Chicago alley on May 7, according to the womans family. Marlen Ochoa-Uriostegui was last seen after leaving a high school in Pilsen on April 23. At the time she was 9-months pregnant and was expected to give birth on May 5, reported ABC 7. Her husband and father of their 3-year-old son believes he was the last person who spoke to her on the day she disappeared. Her family is now calling for a DNA test to identify whether Ochoa-Uriostegui is the mother of the baby. The hours-old baby was rescued by a mother and daughter who heard the newborn crying on Tuesday afternoon around 4 p.m. The baby boy was found in a canvas shopping bag with his umbilical cord still attached, reported ABC 13. The good Samaritans then rushed the boy to a nearby firehouse. There, paramedics performed CPR and revived the little boy. The baby was cold as concrete,Patrick Fitzmaurice, Chicago Fire Department paramedic field chief, told reporters during a news conference, according to the news station. I wasnt too optimistic, but like I said to the lieutenant, I wasnt ready to lose this one today, and neither were they and they worked very hard. This poor kid was minutes away from having no chance at all, Fitzmaurice added. After fire department officials revived the boy, he was taken to the Norwegian American Hospital in critical condition. Later on May 7, officials said the baby was in a stable condition and was crying and kicking. The newborn found in an alley on north Keystone has been upgraded to stable from very critical. The little guy is crying and kicking and about to be transferred to LCH on Chicago Ave. thanks to CFD paramedics and ED crew at Norwegian! the Chicago Fire Media wrote on Twitter. Update. The newborn found in alley on north Keystone has been upgraded to stable from very critical. The little guy is crying and kicking and about to be transferred to LCH on Chicago Ave. thanks to CFD paramedics and ED crew at Norwegian! Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) May 7, 2019 He was then transferred to Lurie Childrens Hospital for further treatment. Dawn Geras, who lobbied to pass Illinois Safe Haven Law in 2001, told Chicago Sun-Times that the baby was the first to be found illegally abandoned in Illinois this year. Under the citys law, a baby 30 days or younger may be left with a staff member at a hospital, fire, or police station with no questions asked, according to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. We dont judge. Take him to a firehouse. Leave the baby there. Give the kid a chance, Fitzmaurice said. Officials have not released any details about the mother or reason for the babys abandonment. FBI Director Cites Ongoing Investigation in Response to Spying Question Contrary to media reporting, Wray did not deny that spying on the Trump campaign occurred News Analysis FBI Director Christopher Wray, testifying before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee on May 7, was asked a series of questions on the topic of spying and surveillance on the Trump campaign. Wrays answers to the questions posed by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) have been widely misrepresented and misreported. Media outlets such as The Washington Post and CNN published headlines claiming that Wray had said there was no evidence of spying on the Trump campaign. There also were multiple claims that Wray had directly refuted statements by Attorney General William Barr. The problem is, that wasnt what Wray had actually said. And some of his answers came from questions that had nothing to do with the Trump campaign. With regard to Wrays comments on spying, he was actually responding to a question regarding the FBIs normal operations: Sen. Jeanne Shaheen: Id like to follow up on Senator Morans question about the hearing we had with Attorney General Barr. Because, I was very concerned by his use of the word spying which I think is a very loaded word. It conjures up a criminal connotation. I want to ask you and Id appreciate a yes or no answer if possible. When FBI agents conduct investigations against alleged mobsters, suspected terrorists, other criminals, do you believe that theyre engaging in spying when theyre following FBI investigative policies and procedures? Christopher Wray: Well, thats not the term I would use. Wrays comment was immediately seized upon by many in the media and led to claims that the FBI director had testified there was no spying in relation to the FBIs investigation of the Trump campaign. Politico even led with the headline FBIs Wray: Spying is not the term I would use to describe Trump campaign probe. Note that Wray was responding to the everyday activities of the FBI, not specifically to the activities surrounding the FBIs counterintelligence investigation into the Trump campaign. There have also been a number of articles published claiming that Wray was publicly taking issue with Barrs use of the word spying, although that isnt what Wray said. Shaheen continued with her questioning and Wray provided an answer that is getting little attention, although it probably should. Wray stated that he was less concerned with what the investigative activity was actually termed and far more concerned with the intent that lay behind the investigations. Sen. Shaheen: I would say thats a no to that question. Mr. Wray: Well, I mean, look, lots of people have different colloquial phrases. I believe that the FBI is engaged in investigative activity and part of investigative activity includes surveillance activity of different shapes and sizes. And to me the key question is making sure that its done by the book, consistent with our lawful authorities. Thats the key question. Different people use different colloquial phrases. The questioning then shifted more directly to the FBIs investigation of the Trump campaign and efforts by the FBI to obtain warrants. Wray noted that there had been a number of unspecified warrants issued: Sen. Shaheen: Did FBI agents get warrants for information as part of their counter-surveillance investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election? Mr. Wray: Well, I want to be a little bit careful about what I can discuss here, but I think its been publicly disclosed that there were a number of relevant warrants that were secured in the course of that investigation. We know that there was at least one FISA warrant on former Trump adviser Carter Page. There may have been others as well. Former Trump adviser George Papadopoulos and former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort have both been mentioned as possibilities. Shaheen then asked Wray if the FBI spied on the Trump campaign. Wray was very careful in his answer. Note that, despite the many misleading headlines claiming otherwise, this is the only place where Shaheen actually asked directly about spying in relation to the Trump campaign: Sen. Shaheen: And do you believe, Director Wray, that the FBI and its agents spied into the 2016 presidential campaign operation? Mr. Wray: Well, again, I want to be careful about how I answer that question here because there is an ongoing inspector general investigation. I have my own thoughts based on the limited information Ive seen so far but I dont think it would be right or appropriate for me to share those at this stage, because I really do think its important for everybody to respect the independent inspector generals investigation, which I think this line of questioning starts to implicate and I think its very important for everybody to be able to have full confidence in his review. Wray confirmed the ongoing FISA investigation being conducted by Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz but was careful not to comment on it. Nor did Wray confirm or deny spying on the Trump campaign. Also of note, Wray did not in any way dispute Shaheens use of the word spied. Shaheen tried one last time to establish that there had been no illegal surveillance of the Trump campaign. Wrays answer provided a host of additional headlines: Sen. Shaheen: At this time do you have any evidence that any illegal surveillance into the campaigns or individuals associated with the campaigns by the FBI occurred? Mr. Wray: I dont think I personally have any evidence of that sort. Wrays answer is given greater context in video form, in which it can be seen that Wray paused prior to answering and emphasized the words I personally, but the damage was done and the sound bite obtained. NBC News promptly issued an article titled FBI chief Wray refutes Barr, says no spying on Trump campaign. The Washington Post published no less than three different articles on Wrays statements, including one titled FBI chief: No evidence of illegal spying on Trump campaign. The FBI isnt investigating itself and Wray hasnt been tasked with investigating potential FISA abuse or FBI activities during the FBIs counterintelligence investigation of the Trump campaign. That matter has been left to Horowitz, whose report is currently scheduled to be delivered before the end of June. The FISA investigation is one of several investigations coming to an end. There is also the matter of the 14 criminal referrals made by special counsel Robert Mueller as an outgrowth of his investigation. Two of these, for Manafort and for former Obama White House counsel Greg Craig, are publicly known. The other 12 havent been revealed and are fully redacted in the Mueller report. Barr recently acknowledged that there were a variety of investigations related to the investigations into the Trump campaign, during testimony before a House Appropriations subcommittee, noting, One of the things I want to do is pull together all the information from the various investigations that have gone on. FBI Lost Notes From Clinton Probe Meeting Significant to Concerns Over Foreign Exfiltration Lead The FBI lost notes from a 2015 meeting with people from the office of the Intelligence Community Inspector General (ICIG), according to newly released FBI records on the investigation of former Secretary of State Hillary Clintons alleged mishandling of classified information. The news raises concern that some information about an explosive lead passed by the ICIG to the FBI now might be lost. The lost notes memorialized a meeting that took place on Aug. 3, 2015, less than a month after the ICIG made a referral to the FBI that classified information may have been disclosed in an unauthorized manner to a foreign power because Clinton conducted State Department business through an email hosted on an insufficiently secured server in her basement. The ICIG-FBI meetings hold special significance because it was allegedly several of these meetings where the ICIG officials passed a lead to the FBI about anomalies in the metadata of the emails indicating that a copy of nearly every email was sent to an agent of a foreign power. Several lawmakers, as well as the Justice Departments Inspector General, publicly confirmed that then-ICIG Charles McCullough told them about the metadata anomalies and that the lead was communicated to the FBI. The FBI acknowledged that Clintons emails could have been breached by foreign actors who covered their tracks, but denied that any evidence of foreign infiltration was found. Several current and former senior FBI officials involved in the Clinton case denied in congressional testimonies any recollection of receiving the metadata lead. Missing Notes Based on documents from a tranche released by the FBI around May 6, special agents from the FBIs Washington field office were going through materials from the Clinton investigation so they could be released pursuant to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. On Feb. 4, they tried to find the ICIG meeting notes, which should have been in the case file based on information in the FBIs electronic case management system. But the notes werent there. An intelligence analyst who was previously assigned to the Clinton case reached out to the FBI staffer who originally wrote the notes. I know this is a shot in the dark, but do you still have the meeting notes that you wrote up concerning an 8/3/2015 MRE meeting at FBIHQ? I think [redacted] correct me if Im wrong) that this meeting was with the ICIG, if that helps matters, the analyst wrote in a Feb. 5 email, also saying the notes never made it to the file. I actually remember turning over my original notes for the file for this (it was right at the beginning of the case), the staffer replied. I gave them to [redacted] who was running the file then. All names have been redacted in the communications. The email indicates, however, that the staffer is now with the FBIs Office of the Chief Information Officer, which manages IT services for the bureau. A Feb. 12 document shows that the Washington Field Office considered the meeting notes missing, as the special agent who was to receive the notes from the staffer said he documented all relevant case material before leaving the case and did not retain any notes or other case materials. China Allegation Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), along with multiple anonymous sources, has alleged that Clintons server was compromised by a foreign hostile power, which was receiving Clintons incoming and outgoing emails. That foreign power was China, using a company operating in northern Virginia, The Daily Caller reported, citing a former intelligence officer with expertise in cybersecurity issues and a government staff officialwho both spoke on condition of anonymity. The ICIG was examining the Clinton emails after it was asked by the State Department to check for classified information before the emails could be released pursuant to FOIA requests. When [the ICIG] did a very deep dive, they found in the actual metadatathe data which is at the header and footer of all the emailsthat a copy, a courtesy copy, was being sent to a third party and that third party was a known Chinese public company that was involved in collecting intelligence for China, the former intelligence officer said. He said he couldnt disclose the name of the company. There are indications there are other cutouts that were involved. I would be in a lot of trouble if I gave you the name, he said. There are a number of Chinese public state-owned companies with addresses in northern Virginia, including China Telecom Americas and China Unicom Americas, both in Herndon, right by the Dulles International Airport and less than 20 miles west of Washington. But if a Chinese company was involved, it didnt need to be a telecom firm, said Agostino von Hassell, president of corporate intelligence firm The Repton Group. All Chinese state-owned companies would be involved in collecting intelligence for the regime, he said in a phone call. Gohmert didnt specify whether the outside party was connected to China, saying only it was a foreign hostile power unrelated to Russia. The former intelligence officer said the ICIG discovered the anomaly pretty early in 2015. The ICIG briefed the FBI on the matter on three separate occasions, according to the Daily Callers sources. Fox News confirmed the reporting with two unidentified sources briefed on the matter, although its unclear whether those sources were different from The Daily Callers. Its not clear how many times the FBI and the ICIG met about the Clinton probe in general. Its also unclear whether the Aug. 3, 2015, meeting pertained to the anomalies. It may now be difficult to verify as long as the meeting notes are missing. FBI Officials Deny Recollection During closed-door interviews, Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.) questioned several current and former FBI officials about the metadata lead, including Peter Strzok, Lisa Page, Bill Priestap, Jonathan Moffa, John Giacalone, and James Comey. All told him they remembered nothing about the specific referral from the ICIG. Sir, I amI do not recall a meeting where the ICIG made any reference to changes in the metadata, said Strzok, the former FBI deputy assistant director who led the Clinton probe. What I can tell you, congressman, is that our technical experts, any allegation of intrusion, any review of metadata that might be indicative of an act, was pursued by our technical folks, and I am very confident that they did that thoroughly and well. I am certainly unaware of anything that we did not pursue or had not pursued. According to transcripts of the interviews reviewed by The Epoch Times, Strzok was one of four FBI officials personally briefed on the metadata anomalies during one meeting with ICIG investigator Frank Rucker, the lawmakers learned from the ICIG. Others present at that meeting were then-Executive Assistant Director Giacalone and then-Section Chief Dean Chappell. Its not clear who the fourth FBI official was. Gohmert and Meadows didnt respond to requests from The Epoch Times for comment. The FBI declined to comment and referred The Epoch Times to the Justice Department Inspector Generals report on the Clinton email investigation. The report made no mention of the lost notes or the ICIG referral regarding metadata anomalies. Ivan Pentchoukov contributed to this report. Update: The article has been updated with information regarding a response from the FBI. The Google name is displayed outside the company's office in London on Nov. 1, 2018. (Toby Melville/Reuters) Google Demos Car Bookings by Voice Assistant at Annual I/O Event MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.Alphabet Inc.s Google business on May 7 offered a preview of voice technology that lets users make rental car bookings with just a simple ask of the companys virtual assistant tool. The capability, which Google demonstrated with National Car Rentals website, builds on the companys push over the last two years to integrate more artificial intelligence-fueled features into its virtual helper, Google Assistant. It also works with movie ticket bookings and aims to free users from manually filling out forms on websites, Google Chief Executive Sundar Pichai said on stage at Google I/O, an annual event held near the companys headquarters in Mountain View, California. The event attracts about 7,000 software developers who create apps for Google Assistant or other company platforms. Google also unveiled augmented reality technology that enables users to view renderings of some specialized visual search results, such as a model of a whale, through their smartphone cameras. Google said it was working with companies such as New Balance, Target Corp., Samsung, and Volvo to make 3D models of their products available in mobile search. Google on May 7 planned to reveal updates to its Android mobile operating system, its biggest platform. Also expected were a new model of its Pixel smartphone, Home smart speaker and some augmented reality features for apps such as Google Maps. The car booking feature will be available later this year on Android phones in the United States and the United Kingdom, Google said. Alphabet shares were down 1.7 percent to $1,172.35 per share on May 7. The shares have fallen from an all-time high of $1,296.98 since the company reported quarterly sales last month that were $1 billion below expectations. With revenue growth slowing and costs largely growing, some investors are anxious to see whether Google can commercialize its newest ventures in artificial intelligence, including the assistant. The company is trying to fend off growing regulatory efforts that threaten its business model. Lawmakers in several regions, including in the United States, United Kingdom, and Singapore, are weighing privacy and data rules that could limit how Google tracks consumers and distributes information. On May 7, Google said it would bring incognito mode, which stops the companys tracking of users, to Google Maps soon and to Google search later this year. By Paresh Dave Fire marshals sift through a burned out apartment in New York's Harlem neighborhood on May 8, 2019. (Richard Drew/Photo via AP) Harlem apartment fire claims 6 lives, including 4 children NEW YORKSix family members, including four children, were killed early on Wednesday, May 8, when a fire that apparently started on a stove ravaged a Harlem apartment, authorities said. Firefighters, who were called at about 1:40 a.m., pushed quickly and aggressively into the flames and thick smoke and found a man and a woman, as well as two girls and two boys ages 3 to 11, in bedrooms of the fifth-floor apartment, according to Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro. They were pronounced dead by emergency medical technicians. Were in the lifesaving business and we take this very personally when were unable to save this family, Nigro said at a briefing hours later. Its horrible to look at, and as a father just thinking that yesterday evening four children went to bed and theyre gone now is very, very painful, Mayor Bill de Blasio said. The head of the New York City Housing Authority, Kathryn Garcia, said a battery-operated smoke detector in the apartment had been tested in January. Television reports showed neighbors standing in a circle and praying outside the Frederick E. Samuel Houses. I was trapped in my building, in my apartment until the fire department came and got me out, a resident, Patricia Flowers, told The Associated Press hours after the fire. I have a mom, and I didnt know what to do to get her out. So it was very frightening. When they reached the 2 rear bedrooms, they found 6 occupants of that apartment deceased, 4 children and 2 adults- #FDNY Commissioner Nigro earlier this morning from the scene of an all-hands fire at 2441 7 Ave in Manhattan. https://t.co/8ZVLBu9jxa (Photo Cred: @nycemergencymgt) pic.twitter.com/9JDByK9mxm FDNY (@FDNY) May 8, 2019 I woke up in the middle of night after hearing the fire truck and I could see the fire and it was so hot, even from across here it was so hot, said Deborah Belton, who lives across the street. As the fire was burning I was hearing one of the little girls screaming, fourth-floor resident Eric Allen told the New York Post . They were beautiful kids. Mom, her four kids among people killed in Harlem NYCHA apartment fire https://t.co/iHdxMomV6z pic.twitter.com/T2oMSPermZ New York Post (@nypost) May 8, 2019 Abdul Salaam, 25, told the Post that he saw the flames from the street and called 911. I heard glass breaking, kids yelling, said Salaam. They were clearly in fear for their lives. One resident said that he and his 75-year-old mother, who live on the fifth floor, fled down a fire escape. There was so much smoke you couldnt even see, Geraldo Morales told the Post. The smokeI got asthmaso it was like I was getting suffocated. Several people suffered minor injuries when the building was being evacuated. Northern Ontario Fire The fire today in Harlem follows last weeks tragedy, where a mother and four of her children were killed in a house fire in northern Ontario on May 2, leaving the remote community struggling. There was no immediate word on what caused the early morning fire on the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation. Chief Donny Morris said every member of the community of roughly 1,000 was affected. We are in utter disbelief, he said in a statement. Today, our community mourns this tragic loss. Sam McKay, a spokesman for the chief and council, said the victims of the fire were a single mother and four of her childrenaged six, seven, nine and 12. The woman had another older daughter who was away when the blaze broke out, he said, adding that three of her children were adopted. Most everybody is in shock right now, he said in a telephone interview from the community that is also known as Big Trout Lake. Its devastating. Rose Anne Archibald, Ontario Regional Chief of the Chiefs of Ontario, said others must act as the community grieves. As I continue to reflect on this tragic situation, it is with a sad heart that I realize that this preventable and unnecessary tragedy is affecting yet again another First Nation community, she said in a statement. While we mourn now, we will be looking to seek solutions, with all parties to prevent any future unnecessary deaths of First Nations citizens due to fire. Archibald also said she had been in touch with Morris, who had asked community members not to post pictures of the fire or speculate on its cause on social media. Provincial police are investigating, along with members of the provinces fire marshals office, coroners office, and forensic pathology service. Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler of Nishnawbe Aski Nation, which represents a collection of Indigenous communities in northwestern Ontario, said a team of crisis and support workers will be sent to the community. Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire community during this difficult time, Fiddler said in a statement. Both federal and provincial politicians offered their condolences. I offer my support in this time of unbelievable grief, MP Bob Nault said in a written statement. In the coming days, I know community members will bring strength and support to each other as they work to overcome this tragedy. Provincial NDP Leader Andrea Horwath issued a joint statement with the communitys representative at Queens Park, Sol Mamakwa, saying they joined with the people of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug in their grief. Our thoughts and our hearts are with the surviving family members, their friends, and the community, they said. We hope they find solace and strength in community and feel an outpouring of love from across the province. The Canadian Press contributed to this report. Navy crew members stand on deck of the USS Blue Ridge during a port call in Hong Kong on April 20, 2019. (Photo by Anthony Kwan/Getty Images) Hong Kong Extradition Bill Could Put Americans at Risk, Says US Commission Proposed changes to Hong Kongs extradition laws, which would allow people to be transferred to mainland China for criminal prosecution, could produce serious risks to U.S. national security and economist interests in the city, a U.S. commission said. First announced in February, the proposed amendments would allow any jurisdiction, including China, to seek the extradition of individuals, as approved by the citys chief executive, on a case-by-case basis. Currently, Hong Kong maintains individual extradition treaties with countries including the United States. The extradition bill could pose significant risks to U.S. national security and economic interests in the territory, the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission stated in a report released May 7. The commission, which reports to Congress on the security implications of trade with China, said the new law could jeopardize the safety of U.S. Navy personnel who may be detained or arrested during routine port calls in the city. The United States could consider alternative ports for rest and replenishment in the region, the report stated. The commission added that the changes could heighten the risks for more than 80,000 U.S. citizens and 1,300 U.S. businesses currently in Hong Kong. One major concern is that the bill could allow Beijing to pressure the Hong Kong government to extradite U.S. citizens under false pretenses, the report stated. The recent spike in arbitrary detentions of U.S., Canadian, and other foreign citizens in China on questionable charges with a lack of access to a fair trial and due process highlight the risk the new law could pose to U.S. citizens. The planned changes, the commission said, could extend the Chinese regimes coercive reach into the territory and further erode Hong Kongs autonomy. Such changes would undermine the strong legal protections guaranteed in Hong Kong and leave the territory exposed to Beijings weak legal system and politically motivated charges, the report stated. These concerns echo widespread criticism of the bill by business groups, rights activists, and Hong Kong residents, who say that, given the Chinese regimes disregard for the rule of law, the amendments could allow Beijing to charge and extradite its critics with impunity. Recently, more than 100,000 people took to the streets of Hong Kong to protest the amendmentsone of the citys largest protests in years. Despite broad opposition, the bill is expected to pass Hong Kongs Legislative Council in the latter half of the year, given its pro-Beijing majority. The proposed changes are the latest in a long line of developments that critics say have eroded the citys independence and legal protections since Hong Kong reverted from British to Chinese rule in 1997. The UKChina handover agreement had included an express guarantee that the city would enjoy a high degree of autonomy and freedoms not allowed in mainland Chinaa policy known as one country, two systems. Recent incidents include refusing to renew a visa for British national and Financial Times editor Victor Mallet, democracy activists being jailed, and opposition lawmakers being disqualified from public office. Risks to US Interests The commission highlighted that the law could breach several provisions of the U.S.-Hong Kong Policy Act, which allows the United States to deal with Hong Kong as a separate entity distinct from China in matters of economics and trade. Those areas of special treatment for Hong Kong include visas, law enforcement including extraditions, and investment. Under the act, the U.S. president may, by executive order, suspend this arrangement if the president deems that Hong Kong is not sufficiently autonomous to justify special treatment. The U.S. extradition treaty with Hong Kong may need to be re-examined, the report said, due to questions about whether the citys government can carry out its obligations under the treatygiven that the proposed amendments could override protections under the treaty. The U.S. State Department raised concerns in April about the proposed laws, saying in a statement that continued erosion of the one country, two systems framework puts at risk Hong Kongs long-established special status in international affairs. At a news conference on May 7, Hong Kongs justice and security secretaries skirted the question of whether the city could realistically reject an extradition request from China. They also sidestepped questions on Chinas legal system and whether activists might be at risk of being extradited on national security grounds. Reuters contributed to this report. Huaweis Meng Wanzhou Granted Move to Larger Home, Future Court Dates Set VANCOUVERFuture court dates for Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou were set in a Vancouver court today, and the judge also allowed her to move to one of her homes in a more upscale area. Meng has been out on bail for five months after being arrested in Vancouver in December 2018. Her bail conditions include living in Vancouver while wearing an electronic GPS tracking device and being monitored by private security. On May 8 at the British Columbia Supreme Court, a judge signed a bail variance order allowing Meng to move from her home in Dunbar, Vancouver, to her $15 million home in Shaughnessy. This house, Mengs second in Vancouver, is gated and larger, and her defense argued that it would enhance security. As well, the judge allowed a surety substitution, as one of Mengs sureties who had put up their house as part of her bail has to sell their home. The court also set the dates for disclosure applications for Mengs case: Sept. 2325 and Sept. 30Oct. 4. Justice Heather J. Holmes said she was not keen to defer applications for too long, as the court has an obligation to move expeditiously, but the defense had made a strong case for needing more time. Disclosure is a copy of facts and evidence that the Crown and police have gathered for prosecution that is given to the accused, as it is a constitutional right to know what evidence will be used. Further applications may be brought up before Mengs extradition hearing date is set. Meng was arrested at the request of U.S. authorities, who want her extradited to the United States to face charges of fraud. They allege that Huawei attempted to circumvent U.S. sanctions against Iran in their business dealings with U.S. banks, with Meng herself directly accused of having made misrepresentative comments to the banks. Both Huawei and Meng deny the allegations. Mengs defense team raised a number of what they called substantive issues regarding her case: Her detention by Canadian Border Services Agency and RCMP at the Vancouver International Airport for three hours without being told why was an abuse of process. The defense is still pursuing access to information requests; The so-called politicization of her case by the United States and President Donald Trump; The absence of double criminality, as there are differences in what constitutes fraud in the United States versus in Canada. Canada doesnt have sanctions against Iran, so according to Canadian law, Mengs remarks to U.S. banks may not necessarily contravene Canadian laws. Mengs defense lawyer says they will argue that she didnt misrepresent Huaweis business activities in Iran with the banks. According to the Canadian Department of Justice, a person can be extradited from Canada only if the alleged criminal conduct in question, for which the extradition is requested, is recognized as criminal by both countries. Mengs arrest was the catalyst for tensions between Canada and the Chinese regime, who detained two Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, in China shortly after Mengs arrest. In the following months, Beijing created obstacles for Canadian companies that trade with China, revoking the licenses of two major Canadian canola exporters and reportedly lengthening the processing times of others, though their actions were never officially tied to Mengs case. In response, Canada has maintained it is following the rule of law in Mengs case, as set out by its extradition treaty with the United States. Ottawa has said it is looking into resolving the trade issues. Extradition Process So Far There are three steps to the extradition process in Canada, according to the Canadian Justice Department. The first step, the Authority to Proceed, was granted on March 1 by the Justice Department after having received the formal extradition request from the United States at the end of January. The second step is the judicial phase, including the actual extradition hearing itself. This step, which is where Mengs case is right now, includes the actual extradition hearing itself. The third step would be the ministerial phase. This is the formal decision to surrender Meng to the United States, which under the Extradition Act must be made by the Minister of Justice, currently David Lametti. Firefighters work on a fire that broke out at York Memorial Collegiate Institute in Toronto on May 7, 2019. (The Canadian Press/Tijana Martin) Huge 6-Alarm Fire at Toronto School Forces Evacuation of Nearby Schools, Homes TORONTOA fire that broke out at a Toronto high school early Tuesday morning has forced local residents and at least four nearby schools to evacuate while firefighters attempt to contain the blaze. Toronto Fire Chief Matthew Pegg told reporters that authorities were going door to door to advise people to evacuate, as the smoke from the fire at the York Memorial Collegiate Institute is a hazard. I hope that they would heed that advice, he said, according to CTV. It is advice only, but it is advice that is being offered quite strongly by the authorities because it is their view that the smokeand the direction which the smoke is going, mostly to the southposes a potential hazard for people. The Toronto District School Board said classes at George Harvey CI had been cancelled while students and staff at three other schoolsCharles E. Webster PS, Silverthorn CS, and Keelsedale JPShave been evacuated due to smoke from the nearby fire. The fire, which broke out just after 3:00 a.m., started as a four-alarm fire before escalating quickly to a five-alarm fire, and is currently a six-alarm fire. The multiple alarm system is determined by the number of vehicles needed to respond to an event. The highest level, alarm level six, means 25 to 29 emergency vehicles responded. According to CP24, about 150 firefighters were at the scene. The smoke plume from the 6 alarm fire on Eglinton is changing direction quickly and frequently. Please be prepared for the sudden onset of smoke in the area. Observations from the helicopter are informing command decisions moving forward. @Toronto_Fire @TorontoPolice pic.twitter.com/GTD7WCZEPO Matthew Pegg (@ChiefPeggTFS) May 7, 2019 At around 6 a.m., homes south of the burning school on Eglinton Ave. were being evacuated due to heavy smoke, with local buses being brought in for shelter, Pegg tweeted. Later in the day, shifting winds prompted the fire chief to warn people to be prepared to move to an area with cleaner air. Our principal focus now in collaboration with the police is making sure that were implementing the necessary evacuations out of an abundance of caution to keep people safe, he said, according to CP24. It is the second fire to break out at the school in as many days. Pegg tweeted that the two fires are likely separate incidences, and that an investigation is ongoing. The first fire was contained by 4:00 p.m. Monday, but a second fire was spotted overnight by a thermal imaging camera, reports the Toronto Star. One person was treated for smoke inhalation on Monday, but no serious injuries have been reported for either fire, according to CTV. The investigation into yesterdays fire is ongoing in collaboration with the Ontario Fire Marshal and @TorontoPolice. All indications are that this fire is separate and distinct from the first fire yesterday. That investigation will continue and expand. Matthew Pegg (@ChiefPeggTFS) May 7, 2019 Toronto Fire Captain David Eckerman told CP24 that, while crews initially tried to battle the complicated fire from the inside, they were forced to retreat outside due to unsafe conditions and its unclear how long it will take to put the fire out. Were doing everything that can be done and well obviously bring it under control as quickly as we can, but I wouldnt even hazard a guess at this point, Pegg said. Pegg tweeted that he had authorized heavy excavation equipment to help with the final fire suppression as a result of the extensive damage to the roof and interior structure in the main part of the building. Iowa State Governor Kim Reynolds proclaimed May 7 and 8 Shen Yun Days in Iowa. Shen Yun Performing Arts is currently performing in Des Moines, Iowa, as the classical Chinese dance company is on its way to finishing its world tour. This season, the New York-based companys six contingents have traveled to 130 cities across four continents, with its mission to revive 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture. Officials in Iowa were quick to extend their welcome and congratulations to the world-class dance and music company Iowa State Senator and Senate President Charles Schneider issued a statement looking forward to the performances. Thank you for making our capital city one of the cities that Shen Yun Performing Arts selected for its 2019 performances. It is an honor for the Des Moines Civic Center to be included on your schedule with such renowned venues as the Lincoln Center in New York and the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Schneider wrote in a statement. I know audiences will greatly appreciate how you bring five thousand years of Chinese culture to life through classical music and dance, Schneider wrote. Shen Yun was established in 2006 by artists from around the world, who wanted to share the authentic traditional Chinese culture with the world. It is a culture and civilization said to be inspired, and one nearly lost over just the last few decades with China being overcome by the communist regime, which seeks to destroy the traditional culture. Des Moines Mayor T. M. Franklin Cownie welcomed Shen Yuns return this year in a letter, commending the company that creates and performs arts that center upon the true divinely bestowed culture of humankind, and seeks to provide an experience of consummate beauty and goodness. Shen Yun has touched the hearts of millions of people around the globe, including in Des Moines, through their annual world tours since 2007, he wrote. Best wishes for an enjoyable and successful event! Congressman Steve King wished the classical Chinese dance company the best of luck with your performance in a letter. The work that the Shen Yun Performing Arts [does] is not only beautiful but serves as a reminder to the 5,000 years of culture that has been suppressed by the Communist regime, King said in a statement. It serves to remind everyone of what China was and what it could become. The Iowa State Senate also issued a certificate of recognition to commemorate Shen Yuns performances. [T]he Senate hereby recognizes and thanks The Shen Yun Performers for showcasing incredible talents and commitments to the arts. It is of particular interest, that freedoms of speech and religion we have in America have allowed these artists the opportunity to express their message. I am gratified that we can offer Shen Yun the unfettered platform to perform. With gratitude and friendship, the people of Iowa are welcome to the opportunity to learn about 5,000 years of Chinese culture and history, and your willingness to spread the message of democratic principles. Description GIS - 08 May, 2019: The Minister Mentor, Minister of Defence, Minister for Rodrigues, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, met members of Mapou Senior Citizens Association today during an event organised at the National Assembly in Port-Louis. On this occasion, the Minister Mentor reiterated Governments commitment to uplift the lives of senior citizens through various facilities that are being put in place. These comprise: increase in Basic Pension Scheme from Rs 5810 to Rs 6210; adequate health facilities; free public transport and setting up of elderly day care centres. Several governmental measures, he said, have been taken to cater for the wellbeing of the elderly and efforts are ongoing as Government wants to ensure that the elderly lead a pleasant and comfortable life in the most suitable environment possible. To this end, he added, the Metro Express is a major infrastructure project that will upgrade and modernise the public transport system in Mauritius. It will provide a safe, reliable, and comfortable means of transport that will reduce travel time for users and special features will be considered in the design of stations and urban terminals for the elderly and disabled, he said. Iran Rolls Back Pledges Under Nuclear Pact Abandoned by Washington LONDONIran announced on Wednesday, May 8, it was scaling back curbs to its nuclear program under a 2015 deal with world powers and threatened to do moreincluding enriching uranium to a higher levelif countries did not shield it from U.S. sanctions. A year after Washington pulled out of the nuclear deal, President Hassan Rouhani unveiled measures that do not appear to violate its terms yet, but could do so in the future if Iran were to persist on the course he set out. Rouhani said Tehran would halt sales of excess enriched uranium and heavy water to other countries. Such sales, used to keep Irans own stockpiles below caps under the deal, were already effectively blocked by a U.S. sanctions move last week. And he threatened that in 60 days Iran would resume enrichment of uranium beyond the low level permitted under the deal, unless the five other powers signed up to it found a way to protect Irans oil and banking industries from U.S. sanctions. If the five countries came to the negotiating table and we reached an agreement, and if they could protect our interests in the oil and banking sectors, we will go back to square one, Rouhani said. The Iranian people and the world should know that today is not the end of the JCPOA, he said, using the acronym for the nuclear deal. These are actions in line with the JCPOA. The 2015 deal was signed between Iran, the United States, Russia, China, Britain, France, and Germany. Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear program in return for the lifting of sanctions. Washingtons European allies have tried to find ways to blunt the impact of new U.S. sanctions, in the hope of persuading Tehran to continue to abide by it. However, their efforts have largely failed, with all major European companies abandoning plans to do business with Iran for fear of U.S. punishment. Frances defense minister said she wanted to keep the deal alive, and Iran could face more sanctions if it did not honor it: Today nothing would be worse than Iran, itself, leaving this agreement, Florence Parly told BFM TV. The Kremlin blamed Washington for provoking Irans move. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin had predicted consequences from the unthought-out steps of U.S. withdrawal. Now we are seeing those consequences. China said the agreement should be implemented and called on all sides to avoid an escalation of tensions. Tensions The weeks leading up to the anniversary of Trumps withdrawal from the agreement have seen a sharp tightening of U.S. sanctions and an increase in tensions on other fronts. From this month, Washington has effectively ordered countries around the world to stop buying any Iranian oil or face sanctions of their own. It has revoked waivers that had allowed some countries to continue buying Iranian oil and it aims to reduce Iranian crude exports to zero. Washington has also blacklisted Irans Revolutionary Guards force as a terrorist organization and Iran responded with threats to close the Gulfs strait of Hormuz if its ships were blocked there. Washington announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier to the Gulf to counter what it says are Iranian threats. Tehran says the USS Abraham Lincoln is replacing another carrier that had already left the area under a scheduled rotation, and calls the announcement psychological warfare based on old news. The looming total ban on oil sales is likely to sharply increase the economic hardship for Irans 80 million people. Finding a response is the biggest test yet for Rouhani, a pragmatist who has faced strong opposition from the hardline faction of Irans leadership throughout his six years in office. The nuclear deal was the flagship policy of Rouhani, who won two landslide elections on promises to end Irans isolation and open its economy up to the world. Ultimate authority in Iran is in the hands of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a cleric in power since 1989, who signed off on the nuclear deal but remains close to the hardline faction that challenges Rouhani. Washingtons European allies say Trumps repudiation of the deal hurts the pragmatic wing of Irans leadership and plays into the hands of hardliners. It means ordinary Iranians see no economic benefits from Rouhanis efforts to open the country. The Trump administration argues that the deal, negotiated by his predecessor Barack Obama, was flawed because it is not permanent, does not address Irans missile program and does not punish Iran for meddling in the affairs of other countries. Trumps hard line is backed by Israel and Washingtons Gulf Arab allies, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which see Iran as a foe and which gain leverage over global oil prices by keeping Iranian crude off the market. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted: After a year of patience, Iran stops measures that the U.S. has made impossible to continue. Zarif said the remaining countries had a narrowing window to save the deal. By Bozorgmehr Sharafedin Firearms and ammunition that was in the motion for detention pending trial in the case against Christopher Hasson, who faces domestic terror allegations. (U.S. District Court via AP) Judge Sets Pretrial Release Terms for Coast Guard Officer Accused of Plotting Terror Attack A federal judge has set strict conditions for the pretrial release of a Coast Guard lieutenant accused of plotting a terrorist attack but stopped short of releasing him in order to give prosecutors time to appeal. U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles Day ruled at a hearing in Greenbelt, Maryland, on Tuesday, May 7, that 50-year-old Christopher Hasson may be released from custody and supervised by relatives in Virginia while awaiting trial. Good afternoon from the US District Court in Greenbelt, Maryland, where Judge Charles Day is set to decide whether or not Coast Guard lieutenant Christopher Hasson is to be released pending trial on firearms and drug charges. pic.twitter.com/3k26KOzkUk Gary Grumbach (@GaryGrumbach) May 7, 2019 The magistrate stopped short of ordering Hassons immediate release, however, and indicated he was giving prosecutors time to appeal his decision to a district court judge. Prosecutors have already filed a motion to review and revoke Hassons release. The government has already filed plans to appeal Christopher Hassons pretrial release, which means his detention status will go to a different judge to decide. pic.twitter.com/M3fTaEyNRd Lynh Bui (@ByLynhBui) May 7, 2019 Hassons attorney said prosecutors have not filed any terrorism-related charges against her client due to a lack of evidence. So far Hasson has only been charged with gun and drug crimes. NBC reported prosecutors do not intend to file any additional charges. Day ruled last month that Hasson may be freed ahead of his trial. If the district court rejects the appeal, Hasson could soon be free. Conditions of Release In stipulating the conditions of Hassons release, on Tuesday Day said that Hasson must be subject to 24-hour home detention at one of two Virginia homes: either his mother-in-laws rental home or a house owned by his father-in-law. The judge also agreed to the use of global positioning equipment to monitor Hasson, who has not been charged with any terrorism-related crimes since his arrest in February on firearms and drug offenses. Day said court officials in Virginia must inspect the two homes and set up the monitoring equipment before Hasson can be released. Im thinking of third-party custodians who will be with him at all times, Day said, The Washington Times reported. I need to know where he lies his head at night. Hassons defense attorney Liz Oyer was cited by Stars and Stripes as saying at Tuesdays hearing that Hassons family had also offered two properties as bond for his release. Federal prosecutors in Maryland have alleged that Lt. Christopher Hasson amassed weapons and studied the manifestos of mass killers to plan a widespread attack driven by what they said are his white supremacist views. https://t.co/VJtvBPRvfi Stars and Stripes (@starsandstripes) May 8, 2019 NBC cited Day as saying on Tuesday that the allegations against Hasson made him very nervous, but I dont think it justifies detention. Allegations Against Hasson In court filings cited by The Associated Press, prosecutors have described Hasson as a domestic terrorist and racist extremist intent on carrying out a massive killing spree. They have claimed Hasson prepared a hit list that included prominent Democrats, two Supreme Court justices, network TV journalists, and social media company executives. But Hassons defense attorney, Liz Oyer, earlier said that there was no evidence to back up the claim that her client was plotting a terror attack. They have not come forward with evidence that Mr. Hasson is a domestic terrorist because he is not, she told Day at an April 26 hearing. She said Hasson hadnt made any direct or specific threats against any individuals and accused prosecutors of wanting to punish Hasson for his private thoughts. Prosecutors have labeled Hasson a white nationalist who intends to murder innocent civilians on a scale rarely seen in this country. In a February court filing, prosecutors said Hasson drafted an email in which he said he was dreaming of a way to kill almost every last person on the earth. Federal prosecutors oppose Hassons release under any conditions. The government continues to believe that the defendant poses a serious danger and must be detained pending trial, Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Windom wrote in a court filing Sunday, according to the Navy Times. Hasson has pleaded not guilty to charges of illegal possession of firearm silencers, possession of firearms by a drug addict and unlawful user, and possession of a controlled substance. He faces a maximum sentence of 31 years in prison if convicted on all counts. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Man Killed By Crossbow in Street Violence in England A 38-year-old man was shot and killed by a crossbow during 24 hours of violence in the streets of England on May 6. A 16-year-old was also left in critical condition after he was shot in the head, while another 30-year-old man was stabbed to death, reported the Daily Mail. Lee Gerrard Atkins died at 2 a.m. in Merseyside on Monday after being shot by a crossbow, said the police. A post-mortem examination proved the cause of his death to be abdominal bleeding. A man killed after being shot by a crossbow in #Bootle yesterday has been named as 38-year-old local man Lee Gerrard Atkins. Two men arrested on suspicion of his murder remain in custody. pic.twitter.com/mUe1QVfTOy BBC Merseyside (@bbcmerseyside) May 7, 2019 The police said the crossbow has been recovered. A 49-year-old and a 41-year-old man are in custody on suspicion of murder in the case. Detectives believe the victim and the suspects knew each other. In the stabbing murder, a man in his 30s died in the arms of a paramedic in Colchester, Essex. The teenager in critical condition was shot in Wolverhampton, and the West Midlands Police have arrested a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old on suspicion of attempted murder. I am appealing directly to anyone who was in the area and saw what happened to contact us if they have not already done so, Inspector Ade George, from the forces CID team said, according to the Daily Mail. No matter how insignificant you feel the information may be, it could really help with our investigation as we continue to follow forensic and CCTV inquiries, he said. According to the latest Home Office statistics, violent crimes in England and Wales have increased by 19 percent in a year, reported BBC. Society just isnt as safe as it once was, and although the police service is doing everything within its power, we are swimming against the tide and it is the public who are being let down, John Apter, chairman of the Police Federation, told BBC. The Police Federation represents thousands of low-rank officials in England and Wales. Knife Crime Hits Record High Knife crime in England and Wales has risen to its highest-ever level, with a new report noting over 39,000 edged-weapon offenses committed during the past year. Britains Office for National Statistics (ONS) said Oct. 18 that the total of 39,332 recorded knife crimes between July 2017 and June 2018 represents a 12 percent rise in violent crime involving edged weapons and other sharp instruments. Statisticians noted, however, that this figure excludes the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) numbers, with respect to which they identified undercounting of crimes involving a knife or sharp instrument. Including the GMP figuresundercounted as they arethe UK saw at least 41,884 knife crimes. Meghan Elkin, head of the ONS Centre for Crime and Justice, told The Independent that knife crime has been on the rise for four years. There have been some improvements in recording by police but we do think this is a genuine increase, she said. Crimes involving knives in the UK are most prominent in metro areas. While knife crime remains a rare crime, todays figures show knife crime recorded by the police in London is at the highest level since data started to be collected for the year ending March 2009, ONS officials noted. London Tops Knife-Crime Rankings Knife crime in London has risen to a record level, with ONS analysts noting a total of 14,987 knife crimes from July 2017 to June 2018, which is a 15 percent year-on-year rise. This figure includes 91 knife killings, 170 rapes or sexual assaults carried out at knife-point, and 8,363 robberies using a blade. London Mayor Sadiq Khan and the Metropolitan police insist they are doing everything possible to tackle knife crime, including ramping up the use of weapons-focused stop-and-search and a succession of anti-knife crime operations. Epoch Times reporter Tom Ozimek contributed to this report. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, center, walks with Acting Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs at the State Department David Satterfield, left, and Charge D'affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad Joey Hood, second from left, and Lt. Gen. Paul LeCamera after arriving in Baghdad, late Tuesday, May 7, 2019. ((Mandel Ngan/Pool Photo via AP) Mike Pompeo Makes Secret Iraq Trip on US Security Concerns Over Iran BAGHDADU.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a lightning visit Tuesday, May 7, to Baghdad and met with Iraqs prime minister and other top officials, to discuss the safety of Americans in Iraq and explain U.S. security concerns amid rising Iranian activity Pompeos unannounced trip to the Iraqi capital began and ended after nightfall under heavy security, following the abrupt cancellation of a visit to Germany. The visit came two days after U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said the United States was deploying the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and a bomber task force to the region because of a credible threat by Iranian regime forces. The Trump administration has made several recent moves to squeeze Iran. Last month, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would no longer exempt any countries from U.S. sanctions if they continue to buy Iranian oil. The United States also designated Irans Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist group, the first time it has ever taken such a step for an entire division of another government. We talked to them about the importance of Iraq ensuring that its able to adequately protect Americans in their country, Pompeo told reporters after meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi. An Iraqi government source confirmed the meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Abdul Mahdi but did not elaborate on the details. Pompeo said the purpose of the meeting also was to let Iraqi officials know more about the increased threat stream that we had seen so they could effectively protect U.S. forces. Pompeo said he expressed U.S. support for Iraqi sovereignty, noting, We dont want anyone interfering in their country, certainly not by attacking another nation inside of Iraq. Asked before the meetings if there was a threat Iraq from Iran that raised U.S. concerns about Iraqi sovereignty, Pompeo said, No, no, generally this has been our position since the national security strategy came out in the beginning of the Trump administration. Asked about the decision to move the aircraft carrier and bomber task force to the region, Pompeo said the United States wanted to defend its interests from the Iranian threat and ensure it had the forces necessary to accomplish that goal. Iraq has a close relationship with the U.S., which is leading the international coalition in the war against the ISIS terrorist group in Iraq and Syria. More than 5,000 U.S. troops are stationed on Iraqi soil. The message that weve sent to the Iranians, I hope, puts us in a position where we can deter and the Iranians will think twice about attacking American interests, Pompeo said, noting that the U.S. intelligence was very specific about attacks that were imminent. He said the United States has urged Iraq to move quickly to bring Iranian-influenced independent militias under central government control, noting that they make Iraq a less stable nation. Before landing in Baghdad he said that that he would make clear in his meetings that any attack by Iran or its proxies on American forces in Iraq would affect the Iraqi government too. The campaign to continue to prevent ISIS terror inside of Iraq itself is something thats very central to the Iraqi government, Pompeo said. Responding to a question about whether Iraq could protect U.S. interests from attacks by Iran and its proxy forces, Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi said Tuesday that Iraq takes its responsibilities seriously. This is an obligation that Iraq honors, he said. Pompeo also said spoke to Iraqi officials about their energy and infrastructure needs, especially in the electricity, oil and natural gas sectors. He said they discussed ways to quickly move forward with projects that could help improve Iraqi lives. By Ahmed Rasheed. Additional reporting by Eric Beech With reporting by the Associated Press Mother Who Tried to Drown Her Baby Face-Down in Toilet Wont Face Prison Time A California mother who tried to drown her newborn immediately after birth in a toilet at a McDonalds restaurant restroom will not face any prison time. Twenty-seven-year-old Sarah Jane Lockner gave birth to a boy on Sept. 4, 2017, while working as a cashier in McDonalds in Redwood City, reported KMOV. On Friday San Mateo County Superior Court Judge Stephanie Garratt placed Lockner under four years of supervised probation and also ordered her to complete her parenting classes. A 27-year-old Redwood City woman wont serve any time in prison for holding her newborn baby facedown in a toilet moments after giving birth at a McDonalds restaurant restroom more than a year and a half ago, prosecutors said. https://t.co/0phVhIOkyF KTLA (@KTLA) May 8, 2019 Lockner was originally charged with attempted murder but she didnt object to pleading guilty to the lesser charge of felony child endangerment in a plea deal on Jan. 14. This child was the second for her, she gave birth to her first child at home five years ago. She told prosecutors that in both the cases she was unaware of her pregnancy. What Happened Inside the Bathroom? On that day Lockner went to the restroom many times complaining of a stomachache. During one trip a colleague noticed blood on the floor and Lockner described it as a heavy period. Another colleague went to check on her the second time and looked over the toilet enclosure and saw Lockner holding a newborn with his head down in the toilet. The colleague told investigators she heard her flushing the toilet as she stepped down. The mother told her colleagues not to call the police but they did anyway and on arrival, the officers found the baby not breathing and without a pulse. The baby was rushed to a hospital and placed under a medically induced coma and has recovered. District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe told KMOV that the child is under the care of his fathers aunt and is doing well. A Similar Case of a Father Trying to Drown Baby In a similar case, a Missouri father tried to drown his baby daughter but she miraculously survived. He was arrested after walking to a police station and confessing that he watched his daughter sink in a pond after allegedly trying to drown her. Jonathon Zicarelli, 28, allegedly admitted that the baby was in an icy pond near Doc Henry Road in Greenwood, Missouri, reported the Kansas City Star on Dec. 18, 2018. Officials said they discovered the child on her back and they thought she was a porcelain doll. There was no emotion whatsoever, Greenwood police spokesman Aaron Fordham said of Zicarellis demeanor. Thats when Police Chief Greg Hallgrimson and Cpl. Tom Calhoun rushed to the pond in a reactionary state, said Fordham to the Star. Calhoun waded into thigh-deep water in his police uniform, vest, and boots to get the child. He said the childs skin had a lifeless color and she had mud in her eyes along with grass and water in her mouth. Police had estimated the girl was in the water for 10 minutes or longer. Calhoun rushed the girl to the bank of the pond and cleared her lungs before performing CPR, the Star reported. In a few moments, the child started breathing, Fordham said. There was absolutely someone watching over that child today, he said. Calhoun and Hallgrimson removed the childs wet clothing and wrapped her in the chiefs shirt to keep the baby warm. Then, first responders arrived to rush her to a hospital. Later, hospital officials said the girl was in good condition and was stable with her condition improving, the Star reported. The news came down through the chain and there was a huge sigh of relief, Fordham said. Zicarelli was charged with first-degree domestic assault, the Star reported. Its not clear if he will face more serious charges. Zicarelli allegedly told investigators he wanted to kill his daughter for the past day due to bad thoughts, saying he was stressed during the holidays and wanted to make things easier for his wife. The man said he went to the water three times to make sure it was possible to sink the child beneath the surface. Then he went to the police department to confess. Epoch Times reporter Jack Phillips contributed to this report. New York Police Department Detective Sean Daly (L) rescues an elderly man , 83, on Staten Island, N.Y., on May 2, 2019. (Courtesy of NYPD) Nature Walker Who Became Stuck in Mud Is Rescued by NYPD Special Ops Helicopter What began as an afternoon walk through an island swamp has ended with New York authorities having to rescue a man stuck in the mud on May 2. New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed its special operations team rescued an 83-year-old man who became unable to move further in a swamp on Staten Island. Our aviation officers jumped into action, not only locating him but hoisting him to safety and getting him the medical attention he needed, NYPD said in a Facebook post dated May 3. Please dont try this at home. The rescue team revealed the man became stuck after missing his bus to Staten Island University Hospital for a doctors appointment. He decided to take a shortcut by walking through the marsh just like he did when he was a child. However, he became tired, lost his sense of direction, and stuck in the swamp. Members of the aviation unit were called upon to locate an 82-year-old Staten Island man who had gotten lost on the way to the hospital and became stuck in a swamp, the team said. Officers used a police helicopter to search for him. The effort took an hour and consumed almost the entire fuel tank before they finally spotted the man. Great job by NYPD Aviation rescuing an 83-year-old male from a marsh in Staten Island, NYPD Special Ops said in a Twitter post dated May 2. The male called 911 stating that he was stuck and sinking in the mud. Aviation successfully located and hoisted the aided aboard and transported him to an area hospital for treatment. Great job by #NYPD Aviation rescuing an 83 year old male from a marsh in Staten Island. The male called 911 stating that he was stuck and sinking in the mud. Aviation successfully located & hoisted the aided aboard and transported him to an area hospital for treatment. pic.twitter.com/l3p1nuPcat NYPD Special Ops (@NYPDSpecialops) May 2, 2019 Detective Sean Daly, who spotted the man, said he made the find after noticing the slightest movement. All of a sudden, I dont know how but I caught a little hand movement from him out of the corner of my eye, he told Pix 11. When Daly came down from the helicopter, he found the man lying at the edge of a pond. He was in the water laying down, face up, holding onto his briefcase, Daly said. Officer John Martin hoisted up both men into the helicopter and does not consider himself to be a hero. [Its] basically what we train for every day here, he said. We as a crew, we had a plan. We tackled it, we did our job. The NYPDs Aviation Unit used a helicopter to rescue an 83-year-old man after he got stuck in a marsh on Staten Island and started to sink. https://t.co/DKcdUR8m9m NBC Bay Area (@nbcbayarea) May 3, 2019 Police rescue an elderly man who got stuck in a marshy area of Staten Island Thursday. See: NE-026TH pic.twitter.com/418Z2bPxNM CNN Newsource (@CNNNewsource) May 3, 2019 The moment both men were safe in the helicopter, the fuel warning light turned on and they immediately returned to the station. The elderly man was cold, wet, tired, and transported to a hospital for treatment. Police said he was in good condition. Awesome day, this is why we take this job, to help people, Daly said. With the #NYPD @NYPDSpecialops Aviation Unit. Why it took the air and sea rescue team almost an hour to find an 82-year-old victim, how they finally found him, and why the man was stuck in a marsh in Ocean Breeze Park on Staten Island to begin with at 11pm on @ABC7NY pic.twitter.com/Y9UcDJkExz CeFaan Kim (@CeFaanKim) May 3, 2019 Newborn With Umbilical Cord Attached Found Atop Garbage Can in Alley An hours-old baby was rescued on May 7 after being found abandoned on top of a garbage can in a Chicago alley. A mother and daughter heard the newborn crying on Tuesday afternoon at around 4 p.m. The newborn was found in a canvas shopping bag with his umbilical cord still attached, reported ABC 13. The good Samaritans then rushed the boy to a nearby firehouse. There, paramedics performed CPR revived the little boy. The baby was cold as concrete, Chicago Fire Dept. Paramedic Field Chief Patrick Fitzmaurice told reporters during a news conference, reported the news station. I wasnt too optimistic, but like I said to the lieutenant, I wasnt ready to lose this one today, and neither were they and they worked very hard. This poor kid was minutes away from having no chance at all, Fitzmaurice added. After fire department officials revived the boy, he was taken to the Norwegian American Hospital in a critical condition. A woman and her daughter noticed the baby boy, who still had his umbilical cord attached, in an alley at in Chicago. https://t.co/ekbk0BQGaA KTVU (@KTVU) May 8, 2019 Later on Tuesday, officials said the was in a stable condition and was crying and kicking. The newborn found in an alley on north Keystone has been upgraded to stable from very critical. The little guy is crying and kicking and about to be transferred to LCH on Chicago Ave. thanks to CFD paramedics and ED crew at Norwegian! the Chicago Fire Media tweeted. Update. The newborn found in alley on north Keystone has been upgraded to stable from very critical. The little guy is crying and kicking and about to be transferred to LCH on Chicago Ave. thanks to CFD paramedics and ED crew at Norwegian! Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) May 7, 2019 He was then transferred to Lurie Childrens Hospital for further treatment. Dawn Geras, who lobbied to pass Illinois Safe Haven Law in 2001, told Chicago Sun-Times that this baby was the first to be found illegally abandoned in Illinois this year. Under the citys law, a baby 30 days or younger may be left with a staff member at a hospital, fire or police stationwith no questions asked, according to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. We dont judge. Take him to a firehouse. Leave the baby there. Give the kid a chance, Fitzmaurice said. Officials have not released any details about the mother or reason for the babys abandonment. Chinese Parents Abandon Newborn in US Hospital In another case of child abandonment, a Chinese couple came to Southern California as tourists and abandoned their newborn baby in a San Diego hospital intensive care unit (ICU), because the child had birth defects due to premature birth, the Chinese language newspaper World Journal reported on Feb. 2. The doctor, Shen Bowen, told the journal that the parents abandoned their child while the baby was still in ICU and flew back to China. Shen, an obstetrician and gynecologist, said that this is one of many instances of birth tourism in China. According to U.S. law, any baby born on U.S. soil is automatically an American citizen. Some people have taken advantage of this law, which has created a phenomenon called birth tourism. The children born under these circumstances have been dubbed anchor babies. Naturally, the baby had to be cared for by the hospital, which increased the workload on the staff, Shen said. Hospital staff contacted the postnatal care center in China where the parents stayed, he said, but the care center did not provide any help. The Epoch Times reporter Daniel Holl contributed to this report. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meets with Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May at 10 Downing Street in London, Britain on May 8, 2019. (Mandel Ngan/Pool via Reuters) No Time to Go Wobbly: Pompeo Scolds Britain Over China and Huawei LONDONU.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Britain on May 8 it needed to change its attitude towards China and telecoms company Huawei, casting the worlds second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. Pompeo questioned the attitude of Prime Minister Theresa Mays government towards Beijing and goaded London by saying that the late former British leader Margaret Thatcher, who was known as the Iron Lady, would have taken a much firmer line with China. He brought a tough message to Britain, which agreed last month to allow Chinas Huawei Technologies a restricted role in building parts of its 5G network. Now is not the time for either of us to go wobbly, Pompeo said in a speech of the so-called special relationship, paraphrasing what Thatcher once famously told late U.S. President George H.W. Bush. In China, we face a new kind of challenge; an authoritarian regime thats integrated economically into the West in ways that the Soviet Union never was, Pompeo said. The United States has told allies not to use Huaweis technology to build new 5G networks because of concerns it could be a vehicle for Chinese spying, an accusation the firm has denied. Britain has indicated it would allow the company a restricted role. Ask yourself: Would the Iron Lady be silent when China violates the sovereignty of nations through corruption or coercion? Would she allow China to control the internet of the future? Pompeo said. Insufficient security will impede the United States ability to share certain information within trusted networks. This is just what China wants to divide Western alliances through bits and bytes, not bullets and bombs. Pompeo said China steals sensitive intellectual property and sensitive commercial data in Europe, Asia, and the United States, and singled out Huawei. The Chinese government can rightfully demand access to data flowing through Huawei and ZTE systems. Why would anyone grant such power to a regime that has already grossly violated cyberspace? he asked. We know 5G is a sovereign decisionbut it must be made with the broader strategic context in mind, he said. By Guy Faulconbridge, Kate Holton & William Schomberg A stock photo of an octopus. (Feans/Flickr, CC BY 2.0) Octopus Sucks Onto Chinese Womans Face, Ripping Her Skin When She Tried to Eat It Live Warning: Images in this article might be disturbing to some viewers. A video showed the moment an octopus sucked onto a Chinese womans face and wouldnt let go after she attempted to eat it alive. In the video, the woman is seen screaming in pain as she tried to remove the octopus tentacles from her skin. The girl, named seaside girl Little Seven, was posting the video on social media website Kuaishou, according to the Daily Mail. The woman was apparently going to eat the octopus live. Iuch! That will teach her a lesson not to play with Octopus. Poor baby must have been terrified and eaten alive. https://t.co/rkAwBeXbOk Magdalen Jagri (@MagdalenJagri) May 8, 2019 At the start of the video, the mollusk was stuck to her face but she didnt appear to be afraid of it. However, when she tried to remove one of the tentacles, she realized it wouldnt release its grip. In the video, she is seen crying and becoming hysterical. I cant remove it, the woman is heard saying in Chinese. Finally, after some tugging, the animal let go of her head. Ill eat it in the next video, she said while holding it. According to the Mail, the woman realized that the octopus sucked onto her face and left a wound on her cheek. My face is disfigured, she exclaimed. The video went viral in China, and it drew backlash from social media users. That will teach her a lesson not to play with Octopus. Poor baby must have been terrified and eaten alive, said one person, according to Business Insider. My goodness! added another. Why would you risk eating something that can suck your face off first? The video can be viewed below. (Warning: It might be disturbing to some viewers): Eating raw seafood, including live octopus, can lead to a host of health problems, say experts. For example, a 71-year-old South Korean man developed an infection after eating raw seafood, which led to complications and the amputation of his forearm, according to a report last year. Fake Seafood? Meanwhile, in China, fake and counterfeit products are rampant. Seafood is no different. The South China Morning Post reported last year that the China Aquatic Products Processing and Marketing Alliance (CAPPMA) reclassifying freshwater rainbow trout as salmon, meaning that consumers might not get a legitimate product. It also poses health problems. Rainbow trout cannot be eaten as sashimi because it needs to be fully cooked, Kenneth Leung, professor of aquatic ecology and toxicology at the University of Hong Kong, told the outlet. The parasite can live in the human liver and cause liver damage. People dont know the difference, Professor Leung continued. The color [of rainbow trout] looks like salmon, and people may be misled. Meanwhile, Chinese seafood markets may also feature adulterated shrimp. The shrimp are injected with gel before they are sold to add weight and thus earn a greater profit. Some of the first well-publicized cases of the gel-injected shrimp appeared in 2005. In 2012, samples of shrimp purchased at 30 different grocery stores across the United States were tested. They were found to contain high amounts of antibiotics that are banned in the United States, such as carcinogen nitrofurazone and chloramphenicol. Ohio Case Could Be Fourth Gerrymander Case Heading to Supreme Court Ohio officials vow to appeal to the Supreme Court a three-judge federal panels determination that congressional districts in the Buckeye State were unlawfully gerrymandered and will have to be redrawn long before elections in November 2020. The federal court ruling requires the state to have a new electoral map in place in a little over a month. Jen Miller, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Ohio, was jubilant, describing the May 3 ruling as a victory for every Ohio voter, because a fair congressional map before 2020 means a stronger democracy for the Buckeye State. Ohio must enact a remedial plan consistent with the courts opinion not later than June 14, and file the plan and an explanation of the reasoning involved in the mapping process with the court by June 21. The left-leaning groups that brought the lawsuit, including Millers, would then be given one week to object to the new electoral district boundaries. The court also indicated it could make a new map on its own, with the assistance of a judicial officer known as a special master. Gerrymandering cases are currently pending before the Supreme Court, which recently heard oral arguments regarding legal challenges to the electoral maps of Maryland and North Carolina. An appeal of a federal courts striking down of the map for Michigan is also expected. Michigan lawmakers and congressional Republicans filed an emergency appeal May 3 with the Supreme Court to set aside a ruling by a panel of three federal judges in Detroit. The judges ordered the states electoral map be redrawn because of what they unanimously termed an unconstitutional political gerrymander of historical proportions that caused severe constitutional violations. A wide breadth of statistical evidence suggests partisan bias that gave Republicans a strong advantage over Democrats, the ruling stated. Assuming Michigan and Ohio file their respective appeals, that would mean four states redistricting plans will soon be pending simultaneously before the Supreme Court. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, a Republican, said an appeal to the Supreme Court was in the works, as well as a request to stay the Cincinnati-based federal judges ruling pending appeal, according to Cleveland-based The Plain Dealer. Yost rejected the unanimous ruling by the panel, calling it a fundamentally political act that has no basis whatsoever in the constitution. But the judgestwo appointed by Democratic presidents, and one appointed by a Republican presidentwere equally emphatic that Democrats were treated unfairly in Ohios redistricting process. We are convinced by the evidence that this partisan gerrymander was intentional and effective and that no legitimate justification accounts for its extremity The 2012 map dilutes the votes of Democratic voters by packing and cracking them into districts that are so skewed toward one party that the electoral outcome is predetermined. We conclude that the map unconstitutionally burdens associational rights by making it more difficult for voters and certain organizations to advance their aims, be they pro-Democratic or pro-democracy. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, a Republican, said his office will work with county boards of elections to administer fair, accurate and secure elections in 2020, pending the conclusion of the judicial process. Ohio Senate President Larry Obhof, a Republican, echoed Yost, saying the lawsuit should not have been brought. Make no mistake, this politically motivated lawsuit was brought for the sole purpose of helping Democrat candidates win more seats. It does so at the expense of Ohios voters, who would be forced to vote under three different congressional maps in four calendar years. Ohio House Democratic leader Emilia Sykes of Akron disagreed. After decades of mistrust, predetermined outcomes and representation rigged against the voter, our state will have a real opportunity to give taxpayers an honest choice, she said. Description GIS 08 May, 2019: The National Science Week (NSW) 2019 was officially launched this morning at the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre (RGSC) in Bell Village by the Director Zone 1 of the Ministry of Education and Human Resources, Tertiary Education and Scientific Research, Mrs D. Sauba, in presence of the Indian High Commissioner, Mr T. Lal, and other personalities. The objective is to encourage the public to take an interest in Science and to reveal the practical importance of Science and Technology in various sectors of the economy and in everyday life. In her address, Mrs Sauba stated that, in order to keep pace with the rapid advances in science and technology as well as rise to new challenges as a country, there is a need for more citizens with a scientific background, and more innovative scientists. She recalled that both Science and Technology are seen as the essential tools to address global 21st century issues such as climate change, energy challenges, food issues and health. Mauritius, she added, needs scientists who understand the local context, can identify challenges and, when the time comes, guide policy makers for the formulation of bold strategic actions to enable informed and timely decisions. The new pillars for the future economic development of our country, said Mrs Sauba, require that we encourage more research in all areas to assist for sustainable exploitation of our marine resources, and to look for alternative resources to reduce dependence on imported fuel as a source of energy. She thus made an appeal for more students to choose Science subjects at higher level as Mauritius will need to have its own experts in different sectors for the country to become self-reliant and strong. For his part, the Indian High Commissioner dwelt on the efforts made by the Indian Government to encourage youngsters to engage in the Science field. Mr Lal also enumerated some achievements of Indian scientists, despite their relatively limited resources, which include exploring the depths of the ocean, advancements in the pharmaceutical field and the green revolution to meet food requirements for their country. NSW 2019 The National Science Week (NSW), organised at the initiative of the RGSC, brings together some 17 stakeholders from different Ministries and parastatal bodies to participate in an exhibition, from 7 to 10 May 2019, to showcase science-related technologies to the public. The exhibitors comprise the Mauritius Meteorological Services; the Police Crime Prevention Unit; the Road Safety Unit; the Police Helicopter Squadron; the Maritime Air Squadron; the Department of Health Sciences of the University of Mauritius; the Ministry of Health and Quality of Life; the Mauritius Institute for Training and Development; the Aeronautical Society of Mauritius; and the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service. In addition, a series of parallel activities is scheduled specifically targeting students during the NSW. The programme of activities comprises workshops on Young Mauritians Plan for the Planet; Inspiring Scientists; Chemistry and Society; and Talks by local scientists. Science Shows are also scheduled. Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman, listens to officials at a prison in Sheikhupura near Lahore, Pakistan, on Nov. 20, 2010. (File Photo via AP) Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi Has Arrived in Canada, Lawyer Confirms Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman freed from death row last year has arrived in Canada, according to her lawyer, Saif ul-Malook. Bibi, a mother of five from Punjab province, was taken out of the country after repeated death threats from religious extremists in Pakistan, following the quashing of her conviction for blasphemy. She has been separated from her family and living in safe houses since the 2018 overturning of the sentence. Her children are already in Canada. Bibi was convicted in 2010 and sentenced to hang after she was accused of defiling the name of the Prophet Mohammed during an argument a year earlier with Muslim colleagues. The workers had refused to drink from a bucket of water Bibi had touched because she was not Muslim. At the time, Bibi said the case was a matter of women who didnt like her taking revenge. Under Pakistans penal code, the offense of blasphemy is punishable by death or life imprisonment. Widely criticized by international human rights groups, the law has been used disproportionately against minority religious groups in the country and to go after critics of the Pakistani religious establishment. Violent Protests Last year, she won her appeal against the conviction and death sentence, sparking widespread protests throughout Pakistan. Before her conviction was overturned, the Islamist movement Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP) had previously vowed to take to the streets if Bibi were released, and large protests broke out in Islamabad and Lahore soon after the ruling was announced. The group went on the rampage when Bibi was acquitted in 2018, with protesters jamming into cities, attacking public property, and burning cars. At the time, the leader of Pakistans Islamist Tehreek-e-Labbaik movement and dozens of his supporters were placed into protective custody, with a government spokesman saying the arrests were aimed at preventing protests from going ahead out of fear for public safety. The TLP were later subdued through a deal reached between the Pakistani government and the groupwith the government agreeing not to oppose a review petition filed against the Supreme Courts judgment. More Sinned Against Than Sinning In its ruling in October, Pakistans Supreme Court court quoted Shakespeares King Lear, saying Bibi appeared to have been more sinned against than sinning. Even if there was some grain of truth in the allegations leveled in this case against the appellant still the glaring contradictions in the evidence of the prosecution highlighted above clearly show that the truth, in this case, had been mixed with a lot which was untrue, the ruling said. Earlier this year, the countrys Supreme Court said her case would not be retried, as judges rejected a petition to review their previous decision. Judges were dismissive of the case against Bibi in the petition to have her case retried, saying the crime had not been established and listing inconsistencies in witness testimonies. We are not hearing the case again, the lawyer was unable to point out a single error in the judgment, Chief Justice Asif Saeed Khan Khosa said of the petition to review last years ruling. We have to look at the value of the statements by witnesses, how can we hang someone on a false witness statement. The petition to review was not able to pinpoint any mistake in the verdict acquitting Bibi, the court said. Drawn Out Ordeal Even after her sentence was commuted, she was forced to remain in the same prison due to concerns over her safety. She has since been shuttled around the country from safe house to safe house to protect her from reprisals. Under Pakistans penal code, the offense of blasphemy is punishable by death or life imprisonment. In her 2012 book, Get Me Out of Here, Bibi included a letter to her family urging them not to lose courage or faith in Jesus Christ. Heavy Hearts The vociferousness of Pakistans hardline Islamists, along with the blasphemy laws which activists say unfairly tackle religious minorities, make being a practicing Christian problematic in Pakistan. Pakistans Christians make up only 1.59 percent of its population of more than 200 million, but according to Peter Jacob, the executive director for the Center for Social Justice in Lahore, the impact of blasphemy laws on minorities is hugely disproportionate. The Center for Social Justice estimates 50 percent of those accused of blasphemy are non-Muslims. While major militant-backed attacks on Christians have decreased, activists told CNN that the main issue facing the community is systematic bias within Pakistani society. School textbooks still rarely mention the achievements of minority Pakistanis, while in the province of Punjab members of the Christian community occupy most of the slums in the region. Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi Has Left the Country: Lawyer, Media ISLAMABADA Pakistani Christian woman who spent eight years on death row over false blasphemy charges, Asia Bibi, has left the country, her lawyer and media said on Wednesday, May 8, more than six months after she was acquitted by Pakistans top court. I have inquired within available channels, and according to them, she has left for Canada, Bibis lawyer, Saif Ul Malook told Reuters. It is a big day, Saif Ul Malook, said, according to The Guardian. Asia Bibi has left Pakistan and reached Canada. She has reunited with her family. Justice has been dispensed. Pakistani TV channels Geo and ARY, citing unidentified sources, also reported Bibi had left the country. Pakistans foreign ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Bibi, 48, and mother of four, was arrested in June 2009 and convicted of blasphemy in 2010, after neighbors said she made derogatory remarks about Islam when they objected to her drinking water from their glass because she was not Muslim. She is a Protestant and denies committing blasphemy. Her case has outraged Christians worldwide and been a source of division within Pakistan, where two politicians who sought to help her were assassinated. Then-Punjab provincial governor Salman Taseer, who spoke in her defense, was assassinated by his own bodyguard in 2011. Federal minister for minorities Shahbaz Bhatti was also killed after calling for her release. Bibi spent eight years on death row in Pakistan before being released in October 2018. Her release sparked rioting by hardline Islamists, who rejected the Supreme Courts verdict and warned Prime Minister Imran Khans government that she must not be allowed to leave the country. They also called for Bibi to be killed. She was in protective custodystaying at an undisclosed location under tight securitybecause her life was in danger. Her husband, Ashiq Masih, had appealed for help to Britain, Canada, Italy, and the United States. Two of Bibis daughters are understood to have been granted asylum in Canada. In November 2018, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his country was in talks with Pakistan about helping Bibi. Insulting Islams Prophet Mohammad carries a mandatory death penalty in Pakistan, which is about 95 percent Muslim and has among the harshest blasphemy laws in the world. No executions for blasphemy have been carried out in Pakistan but enraged mobs sometimes kill people accused of blasphemy. Rights groups say the blasphemy law is exploited by hardliners as well as ordinary Pakistanis to settle personal scores. Christians make up about 2 percent of the countrys population. By Saad Sayeed. Additional reporting by Syed Raza Hassan. Epoch Times Staff contributed to this report An Air New Zealand plane takes off from the airport in Sydney, on Aug. 23, 2017. (Peter Parks/AFP/Getty Images) Passenger Removed From Flight After Refusing to Watch Safety Instructions A passenger was removed from a flight after refusing to look at the safety instruction card and then putting her fingers in her ears when the steward asked her to pay attention to the briefing, according to reports. The woman was sitting in the emergency exit row with a male companion who was also removed from the plane after it turned back from the runway at Wellington Airport in New Zealand, according to stuff.nz. The woman was met by police, according to reports. A passenger sitting near the couple said they were wealthy-looking, according to Stuff, describing the woman, who had a Louis Vitton bag, as high maintenance. When the safety video started playing and the flight attendant held up the card, the woman started to look down at her book, said the passenger. She and her male companion then began to look at their phones. A flight attendant said very patiently Can you please watch whats happening because this is the exit row.' The flight attendant was super kind and kept asking her, but the woman put her fingers in her ears. The passengers behind them were saying For Gods sake, it takes two minutes to look at it, just look at it.' The flight was delayed by 25 minutes, according to Stuff. A police spokesman confirmed to the Evening Standard that they met one passenger at the airport, adding, The passenger will receive an infringement notice under Civil Aviation Authority rules relating to the use of a cellphone. Air New Zealand said that the pilot was forced to return to the gate, reported the Guardian because a passenger failed to comply with crew instructions. Police were waiting at the gate when the aircraft returned and the customer disembarked, a representative said. One passenger told Newshub the delay happened because a fellow passenger had refused to watch the safety video. But they had some sympathy for the woman. I have to say that if watching the safety video is so crucial and you can be escorted off the plane, maybe Air New Zealand should stop making Rachel Hunter ice cream ad safety videos, said the passenger, in reference to a much-maligned safety video. Just make a short video that is compulsory to watch and let people know if they dont watch the video, the police will come and take them away. Air New Zealand has been contacted for comment. There are no specific rules that state people have to listen to safety instructions. However, New Zealands Civil Aviation Authority states that if airlines consider a passenger to be a potential risk to the safety of the aircraft, its crew, they can be removed. The rules state that the airline can remove someone who has not obeyed the instructions of ground staff or a member of the crew relating to safety or security. Several cases of people being kicked off flights before take-off, with airlines often citing a refusing to follow instructions or passengers causing disruption as the cause. A woman was kicked off a Frontier Airlines flight from Las Vegas last month after complaining about vomit on her daughters seat. The passenger disputes the airlines claim that they reassigned her and her daughter seats after they complained of finding the seat wet, and smelling of vomit. She refused to deplane and was arrested. In March Airline Thomas Cook apologised to a 21-year-old woman who was told she would be kicked off a flight if she didnt cover up. Emily OConnor said she was humiliated and left shaking after being told to cover up or she would be kicked off a flight from the UK to the Canary Islands wearing a vest-like crop-top and high-waisted trousers. Flying from Bham to Tenerife, Thomas Cook told me that they were going to remove me from the flight if I didnt cover up as I was causing offence and was inappropriate. They had 4 flight staff around me to get my luggage to take me off the plane. pic.twitter.com/r28nvSYaoY Emily OConnor (@emroseoconnor) March 12, 2019 She said she was told by the crew that her clothing was inappropriate. Her social posts about the incident, including a photograph of the outfit in question, quickly went viral, as users weighed in on whether the crew were right to demand she cover up. The story featured in British national television and newspapers. The airline, Thomas Cook, has since apologised for the way it handled the incident, although appeared to fall short of specifically declaring whether her outfit fell foul of company policy. Police Can Arrest Jailed Aliens on Behalf of ICE in Sanctuary Policy Workaround After a day of training, deputies can now arrest already-jailed illegal aliens on behalf of ICE in a sanctuary policy workaround rolled out for the first time in Florida. Pinellas County on May 6 became the first Florida county to sign up for the Warrant Service Officer program (WSO), which gives deputized officers limited powers to act like ICE agents. According to ICE, several other jurisdictions have shown interest in the program, which trains officers to serve federal warrants and hold jailed aliens for 48 hours before they are picked up by federal authorities. WSO was developed at the request of the National Sheriffs Association and the Major County Sheriffs of America, according to an ICE statement, to allow jurisdictions prohibited from honoring immigration detainers to cooperate with ICE. In other words, it is a way for law enforcement to work within sanctuary legislation that blocks them from cooperating with attempts to deport illegal immigrants accused of other crimes. The WSO program is also intended to provide extra resources to rural counties which would otherwise struggle to cooperate with ICE requests. Policies that limit cooperation with ICE undermine public safety, prevent the agency from executing its federally mandated mission and increase the risks for officers forced to make at-large arrests in unsecure locations, said Acting ICE Director Matthew Albence in a statement. The WSO program will protect communities from criminal aliens who threaten vulnerable populations with violence, drugs and gang activity by allowing partner jurisdictions the flexibility to make immigration arrests in their jail or correctional facility. So-called sanctuary policies use various means to frustrate requests from ICE to local law enforcement called detainers. A detainer asks local law enforcement to notify immigration officials 48 hours before an illegal alien is due to be released from jail. A detainer also provides authority for local law enforcement to detain them for a further two days after their jail sentence has expired, to give ICE time to make an arrest. Sanctuary laws typically target the legal framework that underpins detainers, opening up deputies to potential legal action if they co-operate. The WSO provides a legal workaround to the sanctuary city legislations, reducing the liability of local deputies wishing to cooperate with ICE. Sheriffs deputies will be trained and certified by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to serve federal warrants on undocumented inmates. ICE plans to expand the WSO program to the rest of the state and, eventually, the country.https://t.co/fb9szSyJm2 Mark Mendlovitz (@MendlovitzMark) May 7, 2019 Under the WSO program, officers will be able to serve an administrative warrant and execute an arrest on behalf of ICE, which then has 48 hours to take the alien into custody. WSO officers will only make arrests within the confines of the jail at which they work, and ICE will still issue immigration detainers with partner jurisdictions, said ICE. WSO officers will not question individuals about their citizenship, alienage or removability, nor will they process aliens, according to ICE. The WSO program has been criticized by activists groups that support sanctuary polices as part of ICEs deportation agenda. This program is just the latest scheme by ICE to enlist local police in its abusive deportation agenda, said Lorella Praeli, deputy political director at the American Civil Liberties Union in a statement. The agency explicitly aims to subvert the will of local communities that have passed ordinances to prevent exactly this kind of cooperation between police and ICE. Critics say that the program violates Fourth amendment rightsthe same accusation made against other ICE operations. But local law enforcement say the program is very limited in scope. The majority of people were going to deal with in this program come here to commit crime. They dont come here and theyre illegal and, whoops they get caught, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd told Fox news. In order for this to apply to you, you have to go out and commit a burglary, commit a robbery, commit some sort of a state law violation or something else you are arrested for that winds you up in a county jail, Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri told Fox. National Sheriffs Association Executive Director Jonathan Thompson. It will not only decrease sheriffs liability but will give them the proper training to enforce the law. Maleah Davis (L) and her "stepfather" Darion Vence, pictured with a mark on his forehead after he said he had been abducted with his daughter. (Houston Police Department) Police Release Photos of Car Maleah Davis Was Reportedly Abducted From Police have released photos of the car Maleah Davis, the 4-year-old Texas girl who had been missing since last week, was reportedly abducted from. In an update on May 8, police said Maleah was abducted from a stolen silver Nissan Altima with paper tag 330-92G9. This was the car that the girls stepfather Darion Vence was reportedly driving before he was assaulted and abducted along with Maleah and another child. Police said the photos were provided by the family and were taken before the girls disappearance. UPDATE on the search for missing 4-year-old Maleah Davis: HPD investigators have new pictures of the stolen silver Nissan Altima (Texas paper tags 330-92G9) from which she was reportedly abducted. The photos, provided by family, were taken before her disappearance. #hounews pic.twitter.com/zyT5vhU0Rq Houston Police (@houstonpolice) May 8, 2019 Maleah has been missing since May 4 after her stepfather said he, Maleah, and his 1-year-old son were accosted by three men he described as Hispanic. Vence said he was driving to pick up Maleahs mother, Brittany Bowens, when he was forced to pull over when he heard a noise that sounded like a flat tire. When he got out of his car, he said he was approached by the trio, who he said were in a blue Chevy truck. After hearing the men say that Maleah looked very nice and very sweet, Vence claimed he was knocked on the head and when he came to he was in Sugar Land. His son was with him but Maleah was gone. Maleah was described as an African-American female with black hair and brown eyes, standing approximately 3 feet tall and weighing between 30 and 40 pounds. Police later said that Vence changed his story and is now a person of interest in the case. They said Vence first told detectives that he walked to the hospital but he later told them that he was dropped off, Fox26 reported. The police are looking at surveillance camera footage in the area. Amber Alert Update: Houston police tell me Darion Vence is a person of interest in his stepdaughter Maleahs disappearance. Sugar Land police tell me he changed his story, first saying he walked to the hospital, then saying someone dropped him off. https://t.co/YcS3luozmZ Ivory Hecker FOX 26 (@IvoryHecker) May 7, 2019 Houston Police Department Sgt. Mark Holbrook previously noted that Vences story contained a lot of blanks. Issuing a call for help from members of the public, he added in a press conference: Were hoping the public can fill in the blanks. Volunteers from Texas EquuSearch, which has crews helping to look for Maleah Davis, searched the woods near U.S. Route 59 and Greens Road on May 6. We want to start checking every single dumpster just in case, Fox quoted Texas EquuSearchs Tim Miller as saying. We believe in miracles. Lets hope we get one. Officials issued an Amber Alert for Maleah after she was reported missing over the weekend. While HPD is not searching specific locations for Maleah, the investigation is very active & detectives need the publics help, Houston police said on May 8. While HPD is not searching specific locations for Maleah, the investigation is very active & detectives need the publics help. If youve seen Maleah, the silver Nissan or the blue pickup truck (like this one) call HPD Homicide at 713-308-3600 or @crimestophou at 713-222-TIPS. pic.twitter.com/yKRB1qPzfp Houston Police (@houstonpolice) May 8, 2019 Earlier on May 8, Texas EquuSearch announced that the search for the 4-year-old was suspended due to heavy flooding. This could restrict us from being effective in finding Maleah. Some of the areas are now filled with deep rain water, and this would greatly limit our searchers and accessibility. We will issue a call-out once we plan to resume the search for Maleah. Maleah is an innocent victim, and there is no excuse for anyone causing her disappearance. The rain may slow us, but it wont stop, or discourage us from finding little Maleah, the group said. Maleah was wearing a pink bow in her hair, a light blue zip jacket, and blue jeans, as well as gray, white, and pink sneakers when she was last seen. If youve seen Maleah, the silver Nissan or the blue pickup truck (photos as provided by police) please call HPD Homicide at 713-308-3600 or @crimestophou at 713-222-TIPS. The Epoch Times reporter Jack Phillips and NTD reporter Zack Stieber contributed to this report. Researcher Says Earths Crust Might Be Peeling in Two Off Coast of Portugal Scientists have discovered that a tectonic plate off Portugals coast might be shearing into two layers. In 1969, an earthquake in the location spawned a tsunami, and 200 years before that, an 8.7 magnitude quake struck the area, destroying the capital city of Lisbon and killing 100,000 people, according to Joao Duarte, a marine geologist from the Instituto Dom Luiz at the University of Lisbon. Because of these two quakes, scientists have been puzzled as to why as they didnt occur near any fault or cracks in the Earths crust. Some scientists are theorizing that the crust in this area might be peeling into two layers, creating a new subduction zone, which is when one tectonic plate is rammed under another one, according to an abstract of their findings. If confirmed, this would be the first time an oceanic plate has been caught in the act of peelingand it may mark one of the earliest stages of Europes slow crawl toward Canada https://t.co/mqoSxNkc9T National Geographic (@NatGeo) May 7, 2019 If confirmed, the new work would be the first time an oceanic plate has been caught in the act of peelingand it may mark one of the earliest stages of the Atlantic Ocean shrinking, sending Europe inching toward Canada as predicted by some models of tectonic activity, said National Geographic. The University of Oslos Fabio Crameri said that while its certainly an interesting story, the hypothesis needs more testing. Its a big statement, Duarte noted. Maybe this is not the solution to all the problems. But I think we have something new here. He added that its not clear how subduction zones actually start, saying its an unsolved problem. About 90 percent of the worlds earthquakes take place in the Pacific Ring of Fire that spans around the Pacific Ocean, going from New Zealand all the way around to the southern tip of South America, encompassing Indonesia, Japan, Alaska, the West Coast of the United States, and more. Off the Coast of Portugal, the Earths Crust Might Be Peeling In Two https://t.co/PhUQyAsnEg pic.twitter.com/4BuuX1Nm9t Live Science (@LiveScience) May 7, 2019 Around the Atlantic Ocean, however, tectonic plates pull apart and form a new crust. National Geographic noted that the 1969 earthquake hit a relatively flat area under the oceans surface. Its like the plains of Kansas under 4.8 kilometers [three miles] of water, geologist Marc-Andre Gutscher of the French University of Western Brittany, told the outlet. In 2018, a researcher at University of Lisbons Instituto Dom Luiz published a high-resolution image of the region, showing signs of activity. Now we are 100 percent sure its there, Duarte told the outlet. Live Science pointed out that Duarte and his team are not the first to propose this idea, adding that it has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal. 1755 Earthquake In 1755, an earthquake that is known as the Great Lisbon earthquake hit off the coast of the city, causing a series of fires and a tsunami that killed tens of thousands. This earthquake occurred on All Saints Day while many of the 250,000 inhabitants of Lisbon were in Church. Stone buildings swayed violently and then collapsed on the population. Many who sought safety on the river front were drowned by a large tsunami. Fire ravaged the city. One quarter of Lisbons population perished. This earthquake had a profound effect on the intellectual outlook of Europe, said the U.S. Geological Survey. At the time, the event was discussed by a number of Enlightenment philosophers, the New World Encyclopedia says. Owing to a stroke of luck, the royal family escaped unharmed from the catastrophe. King Joseph I of Portugal and the court had left the city, after attending mass at sunrise, fulfilling the wish of one of the kings daughters to spend the holiday away from Lisbon. After the catastrophe, Joseph I developed a fear of living within walls, and the court was accommodated in a huge complex of tents and pavilions in the hills of Ajuda, then on the outskirts of Lisbon, says the entry for the quake. Rhode Island School District to Swap Hot Meals for Cold Sandwiches When Students Owe Lunch Money Children on free school lunches will be given a sunflower butter and jelly sandwich instead of a hot meal if they owe money on the account for extras, a Rhode Island school district has announced, stirring intense debate and some kind actions. Effective Monday, May 13, 2019, if money is owed on a paid, free, or reduced lunch account a sun butter and jelly sandwich will be given as the lunch choice until the balance owed is paid in full or a payment plan is set up, Warwick Public Schools announced on May 5 via Facebook. Students who qualify for free meals can still run up a debt by adding extras to their lunch trays, such as milk, which are not included in the free lunch, according to parents who commented on Facebook. Warwick is the second largest city in the state, with a population of just over 80,000. All public schools in Rhode Island are mandated by state law to provide lunches, and nearly 70 percent of those meals are served for free or at a reduced price. To qualify for free meals, children must come from families with an income below 130 percent of the poverty level. Reduced price meals ($.40 or less) are available for those at 130-185 percent of the poverty level. Above this level, the school or institution sets the price. Warwick Public Schools, which is responsible for 9,000 children in 22 schools from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, says that it is owed more than $40,000 for outstanding lunch bills and cant afford to absorb the costs, reported Fox News. However, the school district has refused to take donations in the past, according to local restaurant owner, Angelica Penta. I have met with Warwick twice and the second time I left in tears after they refused to take a $4,000 check, she wrote on Facebook. They dont want parents getting upset if their childs lunch gets paid for, but if they are going through hard times they may need help, she wrote. I come up with several different ideas and they were all shut down. Please if anyone has any ideas how we can stop this please let me know. Penta was one of many people who weighed into the intense debate on social media. While some labelled it as food shaming the poor, other parents encouraged each other to help settle any outstanding debts with donations. Many people were angry at the decision. A butter and jelly sandwich? Thats a sick punishment that your doing to kids. Your school system should be ashamed of yourselves. U dont even give a kid a milk on free meal program? wrote one person. But others defended the decision. This isnt as cut and dried as people are making out to be, wrote one person. Currently the school department feels that it is fair to not reward their irresponsible behavior but at the same time also make sure that the child has something healthy in their stomach. Sun butter is a non-allergic nut butter similar to peanut butter but made from sunflower seeds and it is packed with protein. Kids love it and it is healthy. And why are you call it shaming? Maybe the lesson that child takes away is to grow and perhaps they will be motivated to do better by their own children. Some parents have since set up an online fundraiser to cover the outstanding debts. The Warwick Public School System has an outstanding balance of $77,000 for unpaid school lunches, said the fundraiser description. Lets come together and pay it for the kids, so no one has to be singled out and embarrassed by being denied hot lunch. The logo of German industrial conglomerate Siemens at the new headquarters in Munich, Germany, on June 24, 2016. (Matthias Schrader/File Photo via AP) Siemens to Cut 10,000 Jobs in Major Overhaul FRANKFURT, GermanyGerman industrial equipment maker Siemens says it will cut some 10,000 jobs in a major restructuring that will involve spinning off its oil, gas and power generation business and creating new areas of growth. News of the moves to increase profitability and address the struggling power business sent the companys share price up 4.6% to $120.20 (107.30 euros) in morning trading in Europe on Wednesday, May 8. The company said it would spin off its division that makes power turbines to increase its entrepreneurial freedom, while embarking on a sweeping cost-cutting effort at its remaining operations. The gas and power division has been under pressure due to a broader trend toward renewable energy such as sun and wind power. Competitors in the power business such as Boston-headquartered General Electric and Japans Mitsubishi have struggled as well. Siemens said in the announcement late Tuesday that it would keep a significant stake of less than 50 percent in the spun-off company and would bundle in a majority stake in its renewable energies company. That would create what Siemens CEO Joe Kaeser called a powerful pure play in the energy and electricity sector that could offer products across the entire scope of the energy market from a single source. It is about further developing a company which is changing fundamentally, Kaeser told a news conference about the decision to separate the business. Our maximum priority is to stabilize a company which is sound and strong in its core. Many companies dream of being in situation Siemens is in, he said. He declined to give more details about how Siemens would address its train and signaling business, after its attempt to merge it with Frances Alstom was rejected by regulators earlier this year. You have to get your priorities right, Kaeser said. If we have an IPO of mobility next year or three years from now that is irrelevant. Kaeser also announced sweeping cost cuts to increase profitability at the companys remaining businesses, which range across factory automation, energy infrastructure such as power grid control, and high-speed trains. The company plans to take out 2.2 billion euros in costs by 2023, in the course of which it will drop some 10,400 positions. The company says it expects growth to create some 20,500 new jobs by 2023, for a net gain of around 10,000. When it comes to job cuts, Siemens said that all measures worldwide are to be implemented in as socially responsible a manner as possible. Siemens AG said Wednesday that its net profit fell to $2.15 billion (1.92 billion euros) in the first three months of the year, from 2.02 billion a year earlier, when earnings were boosted by 900 million euros by a share transfer. Revenue rose 4% to 20.93 billion euros. Reuters contributed to this report. Taiwan Amends Treason and National Security Laws to Bolster Defense Against China TAIPEI, TaiwanTaiwans legislature has streamlined two laws that bolster the islands defense against China. Amendments to two laws passed the unicameral parliament on May 8. One was an amendment to the treason section of Taiwans Criminal Code. According to Taiwans Central News Agency (CNA), the new amendment expands the scope of treason by including collusion with China, Hong Kong, Macau, and overseas enemy forces and their agents. The Chinese regime considers Taiwan a renegade province, despite the fact that the latter is a de facto independent country with its own elected officials, constitution, military, and currency. Chinas defense strategy includes a potential invasion of the island, while Beijings influence campaigns have targeted Taiwanese nationals for the purpose of persuading them to accept Chinese rule. Currently, the criminal code defines collusion as working with an enemy state or foreign state, which technically doesnt include China, given that Taiwans Constitution doesnt define China as a foreign country. In other words, Taiwanese prosecutors couldnt charge people for offenses listed in the Criminal Code when spying or colluding with China, Hong Kong, and Macaubecause none of the three could be categorized as a state. Hong Kong and Macau are former European colonies that are now under Chinese rule, but have a separate administrative government. Penalties for treason also were revised. Prior to the amendment, people found guilty of collusion could be given a prison sentence of seven years to life in prison. Now, the amended penalty article includes a lesser penaltya prison sentence of up to five years and a maximum fine of $500,000 New Taiwan Dollars ($16,200)while the harsher penalty of seven years to life imprisonment is reserved for those whose acts of collusion harm the Republic of China, another name for Taiwan. Wang Ting-yu, a legislator of the Democratic Progressive Party and one of the sponsors of the amendment, said the changes are designed to protect Taiwans national security and the democracy and freedom that Taiwanese people enjoy, according to CNA. Wang also said many people previously found guilty in Taiwan of spying for China have been given light sentences due to the loophole. In March, two retired Taiwanese lieutenant colonels were sentenced to a six-month prison term and fined 180,000 New Taiwan Dollars ($5,820), after being found guilty of attempting to collect Taiwans military secrets for Beijing. The second law amended was the Classified National Security Information Protection Act. The law stipulates how to safeguard sensitive government information from being leaked to the wrong hands, and thereby jeopardizing Taiwans national security. The current law includes a three-year travel restriction to Taiwanese government officials after they retire, resign, or step down from their public posts. If an official wishes to travel abroad before the three-year restriction, they must gain government permission. The newly passed amendment has extended the length of the travel restriction from three to six years or longer, and without any provision to reduce the length of this new restriction, according to CNA. Additionally, the penalty for leaking or handing over state secrets to foreign states, such as China, Hong Kong, Macao, enemy states and their agents, has been increased to a prison term of three to 10 years, from the initial penalty of one to seven years. DAR ES SALAAMTanzania wants to boost tourist numbers by putting a cable car on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africas tallest mountain, and is in talks about the project with a Chinese and a Western company. Around 50,000 tourists climb Kilimanjaro annually. A cable car could increase tourist numbers by 50 percent by providing access to the mountain for those unable to climb it, Constantine Kanyasu, the deputy minister for tourism, said. The country is conducting feasibility studies on possible routes at the moment, Kanyasu told Reuters. We are still doing a feasibility study to see if this project works, he said. There are two companies, one from China and another from a Western country that have shown interest. This wont be the first time in the world, cable cars are there in Sweden, Italy, the Himalayas, he said. Kanyasu said the government was looking at business plans, potential investors, and profits. The length of the route has not been finalized, with various options under consideration depending on cost and engineering issues, the minister said. An environmental impact assessment would also be carried out, he said. Porter and guide groups who take tourists up the mountain oppose the project because they fear cable cars will reduce the number of climbers. Loishiye Mollel, head of Tanzania Porters Organization, said visitors normally spend a week climbing the mountain. One visitor from the U.S. can have a maximum of 15 people behind him, of which 13 are porters, a cook, and a guide. All these jobs will be affected by a cable car, he said. We are of the view that the mountain should be left as it is. There are about 20,000 porters working between Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru, another mountain nearby, he said. Tanzanias earnings from tourism jumped 7.13 percent last year, helped by an increase in arrivals from foreign visitors. Tourism revenues raised $2.43 billion for the year, up from $2.19 billion in 2017. Tourism is the main source of hard currency in Tanzania, known for its beaches, wildlife safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro, which has three volcanic cones. By Nuzulack Dausen Description GIS 08 May, 2019: The French scientist and lecturer, Mr Joel de Rosnay, who is currently on a visit in Mauritius, paid a courtesy call, yesterday afternoon, on the Prime Minister, Minister of Home Affairs, External Communications and National Development Unit, Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Mr Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, at the New Treasury Building in Port Louis. In a statement to the press, Mr Joel de Rosnay said that he had a cordial meeting with the Prime Minister and that discussions focused on the future of the energy sector in Mauritius. The country, he stated, has tremendous potential of becoming autonomous and self-sufficient in the production of sustainable energy by combining all the renewable energies, namely the sun, the wind, and biomass among others. Selective sorting can also be spread on national level and help in decreasing the level of pollution in Mauritius, he added. According to him, some 300 Megawatts can be produced through renewable energies. The participation of industrialists and the population can be enlisted so that Mauritius can become independent in energy production. Speaking about domestic waste and pollution, Mr Joel de Rosnay pointed out that it is important to encourage the population to sort garbage. Selective sorting should be carried out by using garbage cans of different colours for papers, organic materials, metals and glass, he added. Sorted out materials such as glass and metals can be recycled by industrialists, he indicated. Decorated to the rank of Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK) by the Republic of Mauritius for his contribution in the fields of research and the environment on 12 March 2018, Mr Joel de Rosnay is a French Scientist, Lecturer and Writer. In 2000, he introduced the Smart Mauritius, Digital Island concept . Ukraines New President a Product of Peaceful, Democratic Change Election authorities in Ukraine recently officially named TV star, comedian, and political novice Volodymyr Zelenskiy as the new president. The official results of the April 21 run-off vote indicated that Zelenskiy defeated incumbent President Petro Poroshenko by winning 73 percent of the run-off vote. Major factors for the win included the Europe-wide anti-establishment mood and Zelenskiys promise to fight corruption, improve business conditions, and reunite his country by getting Russian President Vladimir Putin out of the occupied Donbas region. Two weeks ago, Putin signed a decree simplifying the procedure for issuing Russian passports to residents of the Donbas. The occupation has been a huge drain on the Russian treasury, and there are also reasons to assert that some pension funds of the Russian people were used to finance the illegal invasion. Putins measure will expedite Russian citizenship applications from Ukrainians (most of them ethnic Russians living in the part of the Ukraine controlled by the Russian-backed separatists) who, to become Russian citizens, will be required to swear allegiance to Mother Russia. Putin later added that Russia could simplify such procedure for all citizens of Ukraine to acquire Russian citizenship. Russias decree understandably irked Zelenskiy, who responded a Russian passport actually provides the right to be arrested for peaceful protest to have no free and competitive elections to completely forget about the natural human rights and freedoms. He added that Ukrainian citizenship means freedom, dignity and honour: This is what we have defended and will defend. Ukraine will not give up its mission to serve as an example of democracy for the post-Soviet countries. And part of this mission will be to provide protection, asylum and Ukrainian citizenship to all who are ready to fight for freedom. We will provide asylum and assistance to anyone who is ready to fight alongside for our and your freedom. What about the market perceptions in Europe of a Zelenskiy presidency? According to Timothy Ash, senior emerging markets sovereign strategist for Bluebay Asset Management, markets are taking the Zelenskiy win well. The elections were free and fair. Outgoing President Poroshenko is offering to help with a smooth transition of power. Western governments favour the new president and will provide assistance in critical areas like the Minsk peace process and relations with the IMF. Ukraines macro backstop is much better these days, with much smaller twin deficits (2-3 percent of GDP), lower public sector debt, a stable currency, over ($US)20 billion in foreign exchange reserves at the central bank, and respected technocrats at both the bank and the ministry of foreign affairs. Ash recommends watching five indicators closely: First, whether or not Zelenskiy pushes for early parliamentary elections. Some want him to translate his landslide win to a majority in the Rada parliament. However, thats technically difficult given the timingearly Rada elections are not permitted six months before they are due to be held, in this case October 27, so providing only a matter of days for these to be called. The deadline for calling early parliamentary elections is all but goneunless Poroshenko wants to do Zelenskiy a favour by calling early polls, which seems unlikely. Second, how is Zelenskiy going to interact with the Rada and the council of ministers? He can only nominate a few ministers to the government, including the ministers of defence, foreign affairs and head of the national security council. He is unable to bring down the government without a motion of no confidence winning majority support in the Radabut only one such vote is permitted per Rada term and its already been used. Barring that, it would require a constitutional majority which Zelenskiy would likely struggle to command. He must work with the existing cabinet and parliament until October at least, but there could be mass defections from existing parliamentary blocks to Zelenskiys Servant of the People party. Third, it will be important to see details of whom Zelesnkiy nominates in key positions, including his head of administration, foreign minister, defence minister, and head of the national security council. These nominations might be influenced by Western allies. Fourth, how will the Zelenskiy presidency interact with oligarchs, particularly the ex-owner of Privatbank, Igor Kolomoisky, who could have influence over Zelenskiy. The issue of Privatbank could be a deal breaker for the IMF, unless it is resolved in a manner consistent with good governance and international best practices Fifth, the relationship with Russia. Zelenskiy has suggested new perspectives in trying to secure peace with Russia, but will never sell out to Russia. Hell have plenty of choice of experienced individuals to serve as foreign minister, and will receive good support from Western governments. Putin, like many others, is no doubt attempting to analyse exactly what a Zelenskiy presidency will mean. Overall, Ukrainian voters have again shown the world what free and fair elections can achieve in terms of peaceful democratic change. David Kilgour, a lawyer by profession, served in the House of Commons for almost 27 years. He is the author of several books and co-author with David Matas of Bloody Harvest: The Killing of Falun Gong for Their Organs. Kilgours experience as Crown counsel before going to Parliament was with the City of Vancouver (1967-1968); Dept. of Justice, Ottawa (1968-1969); Government of Manitoba (1971-1972); Government of Alberta (1972-1979). Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. US Sending B-52 Bombers to Middle East to Confront Iran Threats The U.S. military is adding B-52 bombers to the forces being sent to the Middle East to counter Iranian threats to U.S. forces on the ground and at sea, the military said on May 7. Capt. Bill Urban, a spokesman for U.S. Central Command, said that the bomber task force would consist of B-52 bomberslong-range warplanes that are capable of carrying 70,000 pounds of bombs. Four B-52s would be deployed, though that number could change, U.S. officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Reuters. The announcement comes two days after White House national security adviser John Bolton said that the United States was deploying a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East. Bolton said the intention was to send a clear and unmistakable message to the Iranian regime that any attack on United States interests or on those of our allies will be met with unrelenting force. The United States is not seeking war with the Iranian regime, but we are fully prepared to respond to any attack, whether by proxy, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, or regular Iranian forces, he said. Central Command, which is responsible for U.S. military operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan, requested additional forces following recent and clear indications that Iranian and proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack U.S. forces in the region, Urban said, according to Reuters. Recent and Clear Threats From Iran U.S. Central Command continues to track a number of credible threat streams emanating from the regime in Iran throughout the CENTCOM area of responsibility, Urban said in a statement. He said the credibility of those threats was based on sources and methods through which the information was obtained, something the U.S. military wasnt able to discuss. One U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Reuters that there were indications that Iran appeared to be moving short-range ballistic missiles on boats in the Middle East. The military has said the threat to U.S. forces was on land and at sea, but declined to provide further details. Strike Group The military also confirmed that the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group had already been scheduled to be deployed to the Persian Gulf region in the Middle East, but that its movement was expedited due to heightened tension with Iran. According to USA Today, the Abraham Lincoln has a wing of warplanes and 3,000 sailors aboard and is accompanied by the USS Leyte Gulf, a guided-missile cruiser, and four destroyers: the USS Bainbridge, Gonzalez, Mason, and Nitze. The United States has regularly maintained a bomber presence in the region, and B-1 bombers were there as recently as last month. The B-52 is a long-range, nuclear-capable bomber. Escalatory Action U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told media on May 6 that it is absolutely the case that weve seen escalatory action from the Iranians, but he also said he couldnt be more specific. I dont want to talk about what underlays it, but make no mistake. We have good reason to want to communicate clearly about how the Iranians should understand how we will respond to actions that they may take, he said. On May 7, Pompeo canceled a long-planned visit with Germany and instead made an unannounced trip to Baghdad, and met with Iraqi leaders. Pompeo said the purpose of the meeting also was to let Iraqi officials know more about the increased threat stream that we had seen from Iran, so they could effectively protect U.S. forces. Pressure Up President Donald Trump has been increasing pressure on Irans leaders, especially since he quit the Iran nuclear deal in May 2018 and gradually reimposed sanctions on the country in an effort to force the Islamic regime to change a plethora of activities the administration finds unacceptable. The administration demands that Iran halts not only its nuclear technology development, which the Obama administrations nuclear deal attempted to delay, but also its ballistic missile program, support for terrorists and militias in the region, and other destabilizing activities. In April, Trump announced he would designate Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a foreign terrorist organizationthe first time the United States has marked a branch of a foreign countrys military as such. Trump also announced in April that the government wont renew waivers from the sanctions for countries importing Iranian oil in an effort to completely shut down Iranian oil exports, which are a lifeline of the regime. Threats Iran says its missile program is only defensive, but has repeatedly threatened to disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz if the United States tries to throttle Iranian oil exports. The strait is a major choke point between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman through which about a fifth of the worlds oil shipments passes. In November 2018, an IRGC commander threatened that U.S. bases in Afghanistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, and U.S. aircraft carriers in the Gulf were within range of Iranian missiles. In July 2018, Saudi state oil company Aramco stated that two of its tankers had been attacked by Yemen-based Houthi militia, who are backed by Iran and suppressed by the Saudi military. Pompeo made clear that the United States will hold Iranian leadership directly accountable for attacks on American interests by Iranian proxies, be it the Houthis, a Shia militia group, or the Lebanese Hezbollah. Reuters, and Epoch Times staff member Petr Svab, contributed to this report. President Donald Trump during a ceremony celebrating West Point's football team in the Rose Garden of the White House, on May 6, 2019. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images) US Would be Happy to Leave China Tariffs in Place, Trump Says Ahead of upcoming trade talks with China, U.S. President Donald Trump said on May 8 that he would be happy to leave import tariffs on China in place. He also said any hope by the Chinese regime to renegotiate a future trade deal with a Democratic presidential administration would go unfulfilled. The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come, Trump wrote in a tweet. Guess what, thats not going to happen! China has just informed us that they (Vice-Premier) are now coming to the U.S. to make a deal. Well see, but I am very happy with over $100 Billion a year in Tariffs filling U.S. coffers, he added. The reason for the China pullback & attempted renegotiation of the Trade Deal is the sincere HOPE that they will be able to negotiate with Joe Biden or one of the very weak Democrats, and thereby continue to ripoff the United States (($500 Billion a year)) for years to come. Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 8, 2019 In a surprise announcement on May 5, Trump tweeted that after slow progress on talks, he would increase tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 percent to 25 percent beginning May 10, and impose duties shortly on $325 billion of currently untaxed Chinese goods. A notice posted to the Federal Register on May 8 confirmed that this tariff increase will take effect from May 10. The notice also said the U.S. Trade Representatives office will establish a process to seek exclusions for certain products from additional tariffs. Lead U.S. negotiator Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer hinted at the reason behind the tariff increase, telling reporters on May 6 that China was reneging on prior commitments after 10 rounds of talks. Reuters has since reported on May 8, citing government and private sector sources, that Beijing backtracked on its commitments to change its laws to address core U.S. concerns, including theft of U.S. intellectual property, forced technology transfers, and currency manipulation. The reversal affected every chapter of the nearly 150-page draft agreement that was being negotiated over months of bilateral talks, Reuters reported. The Trump administrations demand for the Chinese regime to implement structural reforms, which propelled it to launch the trade war with China last March, has been a sticking point during trade negotiations. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He is due to arrive in Washington D.C. on May 9 for two days of talks. Michael Andrew Fife died in hospital following an attack after he was falsely accused of sexual assault in Utah on April 23, 2019. (GoFundMe) Utah Man Dies After False Sexual Assault Claim Sparks Fatal Revenge Attack A Utah man has died after being struck shortly after being accused of a sexual assault aboard a city bus. The Logan Police Department said in a news release that Michael Fife of Logan died on April 27 at the McKay-Dee Hospital, where he was being treated for injuries sustained in a revenge attack. Fife was accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old aboard a Cache Valley Transit District bus in Logan at around 3 p.m. on April 23, according to police. Shortly after the alleged incident on the bus, the 16-year-old girl called her 17-year-old brother and claimed Fife had sexually assaulted her. Minutes later, as Fife got off the bus, he was met by the 17-year-old brother of the alleged victim. The teenager struck Fife, according to police. Fife fell and suffered head injuries when he hit the sidewalk. The 17-year-old suspect fled the scene on foot as Fife lay on the ground unconscious. Someone called 911 and paramedics rushed Fife to the hospital. His injuries were so bad that he was transferred to McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden, UT where they performed emergency surgery on his skull to relieve the swelling of his brain, said Brandie Callahan, the organizer of a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses. The Logan City Police Department announced on May 7, Early Saturday morning, April 27, 2019, Mr. Michael Fife died of his injuries. When detectives reviewed surveillance footage of the alleged sexual assault, they said that the video showed Mr. Fife walking past the girl, but no sexual assault occurred. The police have not released the names of the 16-year-old accuser or her 17-year-old brother, the assault suspect. The case remains under investigation, police said, adding they were consulting with prosecutors on further steps. In a post on the campaign page, Callahan has asked people to help lay big Mike to rest, adding that donations would go towards settling the cost of hospital bills, cremation, and entering into a burial plot. Woman Jailed for False Rape Claims The incident recalls the case of a woman who was handed a 10-year prison sentence for making a string of false rape allegations and sexual assault claims. Jemma Beale, from Hounslow, west London, was given the jail term in August 2017 after claiming she was raped by nine men and sexually assaulted by six in four incidents over the course of three years. Beale made a bid to overturn her convictions for perverting the course of justice and perjury. Her appeal was rejected by three judges at the Southwark Crown Court of Appeal on March 28, 2019. Fake rape complainant who had man jailed for two years loses appeal against conviction and sentence. Court of Appeal judges say Jemma Beale showed no indication of remorse pic.twitter.com/4Yrf1UHkyi CourtNewsUK (@CourtNewsUK) March 28, 2019 The 27-year-olds false claims against 15 men led to one serving a two-year prison term after being wrongly convicted of rape, while another fled the country. The string of claims meant police spent more than 250,000 ($326,900) and 6,400 hours investigating her allegations, The Times of London reported. Man Spends 5 Months in Jail After False Rape Accusation In another case of false accusations, a 31-year-old man said he spent five months in a maximum security prison after his ex-girlfriend falsely accused him of rape, according to a report. Australian Daniel Jones, of Canberra, said he was accused of rape and assault by Sarah Jane Parkinson in 2014. NO, WOMEN ALSO LIE Sarah Jane Parkinson falsely accused her former fiance, Daniel Jones, of assault and rape.https://t.co/tF4BhR148H #DontCryWolf Campaign Stop #FalseAllegations (@donotcrywolf) February 14, 2019 Jones, 31, was arrested at a room in her parents home and was detained by police. Parkinson, he said, told the police that he beat and raped her that morning, 9News reported on April 4. Id just built a house and shed moved in with me, everything was going well, Jones said. I had everything going right and in that instant, everything just went to [expletive], he added. Parkinson worked at the local Queanbeyan Police Station, and she told her colleagues that Jones abused her. 60 Minutes: Daniel Jones sent to jail after being wrongly accused of rape by fiancee https://t.co/nHW6dIpuOm pic.twitter.com/70J2eil0Ve Blog Dady (@TRENDINGHITS1) April 4, 2019 In the 2014 incident, he was taken to a maximum security prison and served five months behind bars, reported the Daily Mail. During that time, police investigated multiple false accusations against him. Parkinson was eventually sentenced to three years in prison for making false statements. Epoch Times reporters Jack Phillips and Isabel Van Brugen contributed to this article. A fully loaded cargo ship heads out to sea from New York Harbor on Aug. 22, 2016. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images) White House Wins the Battle Over Export-Import Bank WASHINGTON The U.S. Senate acted to revive the U.S. export credit agency by confirming President Donald Trumps nominees, marking the White Houses victory over a vast network of political groups backed by the Koch brothers. The Senate voted May 8 to confirm three nominees to serve on the board of the U.S. Export-Import Bank (Ex-Im Bank), allowing the federal credit agency to have a quorum needed to authorize large loans. Lack of board quorum for nearly four years has prevented the bank from approving deals over $10 million. The Trump administration has been pushing the Senate to revive the bank for both financial and national security reasons. At the Ex-Im Banks annual conference in March, Trumps top aides Larry Kudlow and Peter Navarro made it clear that the bank is an important tool to level the playing field for American exporters. Trump as a candidate opposed the credit agency during the 2016 presidential campaign. However, as president he changed his mind, declaring the bank a very good thing. And this appears to be triggered by his concerns about China trade issues, say experts. The Senate confirmed Kimberly Reed as president of the credit agency with a 79-17 vote. It also voted for Spencer Bachus and Judith DelZoppo Pryor to serve on the board. The export credit agency, for more than 85 years, assists in financing and facilitating U.S. exports of goods and services. It supports large multinational corporations such as Boeing, Caterpillar, and GE; its also an important source of credit for small businesses. Koch Influence The Koch brothers have been using behind-the-scenes influence to challenge the Trump administration on its decision to revive the bank. Since 2015, billionaires Charles and David Koch, who are among the Republican Partys top donors, have been pushing Washington to eliminate the Ex-Im Bank. Koch Industries sent a letter to Congress in 2015, urging lawmakers to oppose the reauthorization of the bank. The industrial conglomerate labeled the bank corporate welfare that picks winners and losers by subsidizing certain industries. And since then, the Koch brothers have been using a wide network of political advocacy groups to put the bank on the political radar. The controversy over the bank also has sparked clashes among Republicans. Fools like me who believed that President Trump would drain the swamp in Washington have been enduring one disappointment after another, wrote Veronique de Rugy, a senior research fellow at the Mercatus Center, a Koch-funded think tank. For the latest, he has exerted political pressure so the swampiest agency in town, the Export-Import Bank, can be restored to its full potential, she wrote in a recent New York Times op-ed. Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) has led the opposition against the bank in the Senate by placing holds on nominations to the banks board. Im pretty disappointed that were moving ahead with this [confirmation], Toomey said May 7 on the Senate floor. Even in its heyday, Ex-Im finances the very tiny percentage of all U.S. exports, typically its less than 2 percent, he said. Opponents of the bank argue that the majority of Ex-Im loans in dollar terms go to a small number of politically connected giant corporations, such as Boeing. Proponents, however, claim that money funneled through the bank supports a large number of small businesses and U.S. jobs. More than 90 percent of the banks transactions directly supported exports from American small businesses in fiscal year 2017, according to the agency. Thousands of smaller companies that serve as suppliers to large exporters also benefit indirectly from the banks activities. The credit agency also supported over 1.7 million jobs across the country over the past decade. A Major Bipartisan Victory The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), a leading proponent of the bank, applauded the Senate confirmation, calling it a major bipartisan victory. Thanks to the leadership of President Trump, Leader McConnell, and senators on both sides of the aisle, this self-inflicted damage is now over, Jay Timmons, president and CEO of NAM said in a statement. Now that the Export-Import Bank is on track to be fully functional again, after a four-year hiatus, manufacturers in America can once more reach their full potential and more aggressively compete against China and others. The agency operates under a renewable charter and its mandate is set to expire Sept. 30. Congress must act again for the re-authorization, which poses another challenge for the White House and the credit agency. Woman Found Bound and Gagged in Vacant Santa Ana Home Not Kidnapped, Say Police Police said a woman who was found bound and gagged in a vacant California home lied about being kidnapped, according to ABC7. On Tuesday, May 7, maintenance crews scheduled to do work on what was supposed to be an unoccupied city-owned property in Santa Ana discovered an unauthorized padlock and called the police, CBSLA reported. Officers responded to the call and heard suspicious sounds coming from inside the house, described in the report as moaning. Deputies entered the property and found the woman inside, tied up on a bed and gagged. According to the Orange County Register, she told the officers that someone had kidnapped her earlier that day from a nearby bike trail and kept her captive for hours. She also provided a description of the suspect. Woman found bound and gagged in vacant Santa Ana house https://t.co/NHuFTEnqmv O.C. Register (@ocregister) May 8, 2019 But when officers brought in a bloodhound to catch the scent of the alleged kidnapper, the dog found no trace. After further investigation, detectives cited by CBSLA found the woman had lied to police about being kidnapped to avoid being arrested for squatting. Neighbors cited in the report said the city had bought homes in the area for a development project and homeless people have started squatting in them. Santa Ana Police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna was cited by the Orange County Register as saying: After the homicide detectives interviewed her, they determined that there was no street kidnapping that occurred as alleged. What detectives are continuing to investigate is the condition they found her in at that locked residence. Bertagna said that investigators are still trying to determine how she came to be found bound and gagged inside the locked property and added that at this point shes still a victim. Crime in the United States Violent crime in the United States has fallen sharply over the past 25 years, according to both the FBIs Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) and the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS). The rate of violent crimes fell by 49 percent between 1993 and 2017, according to the FBIs UCR, which only reflects crimes reported to the police. The violent crime rate dropped by 74 percent between 1993 and 2017, according to BJSs CVS, which takes into account both crimes that have been reported to the police and those that have not. From 1993 to 2017, the rate of violent victimization declined 74 percent, from 79.8 to 20.6 victimizations per 1,000 persons age 12 or older, the U.S. Department of Justice stated (pdf). Both studies are based on data up to and including 2017, the most recent year for which complete figures are available. The FBI recently released preliminary data for 2018. According to the Preliminary Semiannual Uniform Crime Report, from January to June 2018, violent crime rates in the United States dropped by 4.3 percent compared to the same six-month period in 2017. While the overall rate of violent crime has seen a steady downward drop since its peak in the 1990s, there have been several upticks that bucked the trend. Between 2014 and 2016, the murder rate increased by more than 20 percent, to 5.4 per 100,000 residents, from 4.4, according to an analysis of FBI data. The last two-year period that the rate soared so quickly was between 1966 and 1968. Property Crime The property crime rate fell by 50 percent between 1993 and 2017, according to the FBI, and by 69 percent according to BJS. According to the FBIs preliminary figures for the first half of 2018, property crime rates in the United States dropped by 7.2 percent compared to the same six-month period in 2017. As with violent crime, the FBI survey only takes into account crime reported to the police, while the BJS figures include reported and nonreported crime. Public Perception About Crime Despite falling long-term trends in both violent crime and property crime, opinion surveys repeatedly show Americans believe that crime is up. The vast majority of Gallup polls taken since 1993 show (pdf) that over 60 percent of Americans believe there is more crime in the United States on a national scale compared to the previous year. Pew Research surveys show similar findings. A survey in late 2016 revealed that 57 percent of registered voters said crime in the nation as a whole increased since 2008, despite both FBI and BJS data showing double-digit drops in violent and property crimes. Perceptions differed on a national versus local level. Surveys of perceptions of crime levels on a local scale showed that fewer than 50 percent of respondents in every single Gallup survey (pdf) done since 1996 believed that crime in their area had risen compared to the previous year. By BRIANA BARKER More than 100 people gathered at New Bold Corporation Saturday to watch law enforcement officers and their K-9 partners compete in the annual Iron Dog competition. Rocky Mount Police Department hosted Iron Dog for the first time. Iron Dog is a Virginia Police Work Dog Association event. VPWDA is a nonprofit that assists police K-9 teams in Virginia and across the United States by conducting workshops, certifications and training. Teams from all over the state, including Norfolk, Roanoke City and County, Bedford County, Virginia Beach, Chesterfield County and Chesapeake County, competed. Franklin County Sheriffs Office had four teams compete in the challenge. RMPD officer Josh Mason and his K-9 partner, Spike, were the first runners to take the field for the course. Sgt. Andy Pendleton said he was happy with the turnout. I thought we had a good turnout, good weather and people seemed to enjoy themselves, Pendleton said. He added the competition moves from year to year but said hes interested in hosting the event again. The competition consisted of a 2-mile trail on which the officer and K-9 officer faced obstacles such as water pits, dummy drags, a shooting portion, and suspect apprehension. Drug dogs were tasked with finding the drugs at the end of the course. FCSO Deputy Robbie Haynes was the first runner for the local sheriffs office, and he said the course was a lot of fun. It is a very similar environment to what tracking through the woods is like for the dogs, Haynes said. We just appreciate everybodys support. We just love our jobs and catching the bad guys. Haynes K-9 partner, Titan, is a German Shepard-Belgian Malinois mix and serves as a dual-purpose dog for the county. Titan is a tracker, trained in finding narcotics and apprehending suspects. He is one of six working dogs at FCSO. Rocky Mount PD has two dogs and will soon add a third to its K-9 staff. Categories for competition included Mens Open, Womens Open, Heavy Weight and 40 and Older. Winners included: Mens Open 1. Daniel Herring and Cooper Virginia Beach PD 2. John Walsh and Hondo- Chesterfield PD 3.Shaun Gayhart and Bart Virginia Beach PD Womens Open 1. Heather Sloan and Pistol VA Task Force 2. Annemarie Weaver and Argo Norfolk PD 3. Kim Adams and Richter- Roanoke City PD Heavy Weight 1. Justin Lovewell and Tabo Norfolk PD 2. Randall Coxand and Bassie Roanoke City PD 3. Michael Szelc and Zwei Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office 40 and Older 1. Lee Hasty and Shox- Chesapeake PD 2. Bill Tars and Kayos- Roanoke County PD 3. Shannon Zimmerman and Murdoch Bedford County Sheriffs Office By ANGELA H. HILL Whether you saved your allowance for the Dixie Caverns gift shop or youve always admired grandpas collection of felt pennants, something about small, inexpensive mementos evokes a flood of warm memories. Ferrum Colleges Blue Ridge Institute and Museum is celebrating the history and evolution of collecting souvenirs in its upcoming exhibit Souvenirs of Virginia: Travelers Trinkets. Featuring approximately 500 items, the exhibit opens in late May and will run for at least a year. After that, it will become a traveling exhibit showcased at institutions such as the Virginia Museum of History and Culture in Richmond. BRI Director Beth Worley said the staff came up with idea upon realizing no Virginia museums have an exhibit like this. Many people have, at some point, collected souvenirs, but the exhibit addresses what we collect, why we collect it, and where the idea to do so originated. Under the direction of Ariel Hundley, BRIs curator in charge of exhibit design and archival, the exhibit features everything from snow globes to shot glasses to spoons to porcelain plates plus a collage of photos. Its funded by a Virginia Humanities grant. Worley added that the exhibit includes destinations many have forgotten (or never knew existed), such as Virginias segregated beaches. Some exhibit items are borrowed from county residents and other museums, and others were purchased. The exhibit is more than a collection of curiosities, however. The panels explain the four categories of souvenirs, the origin of tourism, and the history behind many notable Virginia sites. Through mid-May BRI will continue accepting donated family photos taken at any tourism destinations in Virginia. The photos cannot be returned. Anyone interested may call BRI at 365-4416. An additional component of the Trinkets exhibit is showing the evolution of souvenir collecting. The exhibit culminates in a few very fun items from Dinosaur Land (located outside Winchester) where museum guests may pose for todays favorite souvenir: the selfie. Located on the Ferrum College campus at 20 Museum Drive, the institutes summer hours are Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Science and God will be presented at the Phoebe Neeldes Center May 14 by Dr. Carolyn Thomas, a Ferrum College Professor of Biology and Environmental Science. Thomas will explain animal and plant evolution, including her experience of traveling to the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador and to Hawaiis Big Island. Additionally, she will discuss what God has to do with evolution and nature, detailing how a person with a disease can be fixed by modern science and medicine while also being healed by the spirit of those that express concern and prayers. The Center for Lifelong Learning program begins at 10 a.m. in McCauley Hall on May 14. Guests may arrive at 9:30 a.m. for social time and coffee. Lunch will follow immediately after the program at approximately noon. To RSVP for this event, please call the Phoebe Needles Center at 483-1518. Reservations should be made by Friday, May 10. Cost is $18 for CLL non-members and $10 for CLL members. The fee includes the program and lunch, and it is non-refundable after the reservation deadline. Vegetarian entrees are available by request in advance. For more information visit www.phoebeneedles.org. By CASEY FABRIS ENDICOTT Gregory Rock takes a single freshly roasted coffee bean between his fingers and crushes it, releasing its aroma and inhaling deeply. On this day, hes roasting a batch of Bella Bold, a silky blend of Colombian Narino and Peru Minca beans named for a departed cat with a hot-and-cold personality. The name of the coffee is personal, as is everything about Rocsato Coffee Roasters. The business combines Rocks last name with that of his wife, Aime Sposato. The two moved to the area from Northern Virginia when Sposato accepted a job as provost at Ferrum College. Rock, 53, roasts the coffee in a small wooden shed on the property of their home, the former Episcopal mission school known as St. Johns in the Mountains. The home has a Ferrum address but is located in the Endicott area of Franklin County. Linda Stanley, with the county historical society, said the mission was funded in part by the Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia but was a true community endeavor, with locals providing the stones used to build it. The building that Rock and Sposato now call home was completed in 1921, although the mission was started earlier. Rock said the home, which he and Sposato purchased in September 2017, is known to locals as the rock church. Its fitting, given his last name. Rock decided to feature the building in his companys logo because its so well known in the community. Im embracing the local history, he said, wearing an apron embroidered with a tiny depiction of the house. Rock, a 28-year Army veteran, first began roasting coffee when he was in the service. One of his soldiers had started home roasting and brought Rock a bag, which he shared with his wife. She loved it, and suggested Rock pick up the hobby. We never bought coffee at the store again, he said. After retiring from the Army, Rock got a job at a local winery to get himself out of the house, per his wifes urging. He brought his coffee in for the winerys staff to sample and the owners daughter said she wanted to sell it in the tasting room. She handed Rock a card for an attorney, and said once hed made the business official, the winery would buy his first bags. It was the first step in turning Rocks hobby into a business. When the couple moved to Franklin County, Rock brought his business with them. His coffee is now available in a number of local businesses, like Twin Creeks Distillery in Rocky Mount and the Floyd Country Store. Twin Creeks even has its own blend, Shooting Creek Lace. It pairs nicely with whiskey, a combination known as coffee lace. Rock said the grandmother of Twin Creeks owner Chris Prillaman once raved to him about the coffee, not realizing Rock roasted the beans used in her coffee lace. That was one of the best compliments that I could have ever gotten, he said. Though Rocks operation has grown since he first started roasting in the early 2000s, hes not out to make millions. His only goals is to do something he enjoys and share it with others. Its my retirement job, and Ill do it until its not fun anymore, Rock said. He typically roasts only twice a week, on Mondays and Tuesdays. In addition to local businesses, Rock counts individuals as regular customers and is happy to work them into his roasting rotation. Rock wasnt always a coffee nerd. He educated himself by reading books on the subject and still keeps several on hand in the roasting shed. Rock also said much of what he learned at the winery has been applicable to roasting. Although the shed is full of raw beans he purchases most from a broker, but some directly from a farm in Nicaragua Rock manages to limit himself to one cup of coffee a day. Rock said creaminess is a distinct element of his coffees flavor profile. His wife is Italian, Rock said, and thats what she likes. He takes care not to roast the beans too dark, which would result in a burned taste. Im about the essence of the bean, he said. Though the business is Rocks endeavor, Sposato is a common thread through its story. She encouraged him to take up home roasting, and her coffee preferences have influenced his roasting style. The two have quite the story, Rock said as the beans are roasting. Rock and Sposato first started dating as students at Shenandoah University, where they were both studying music. But when Rock left school for the Army and Sposato transferred to the University of Pittsburgh, they lost touch. But years later, after each had been married and divorced, the two reconnected. Rock eventually asked Sposato to marry him on the same bench where they had shared a goodbye kiss when parting ways in college. The roasting process takes, on average, about 15 minutes. As with most small businesses, Rock is involved in every step of the process, including bagging the beans once theyve cooled. Rock carefully places a sticker with the Rocsato Coffee Roasters logo on the bag, joking that he hasnt been able to shake his military precision. Finally, he places another sticker on the back of the bag saying the craft roasted coffee comes from Franklin Countys own St. Johns in the Mountains. Publication Summary Recent political developments in the Sudan dominate street conversations and various social media outlets in Juba, South Sudan. The Sudanese revolutionary forces that brought an end to a 30-year rule of President Omar Al Bashir find a lot of sympathy and support among the ordinary South Sudanese citizens, who, at one point before their own independence, suffered Al Bashirs misrule. They have been on the receiving end of the brutal and genocidal policies of President Al Bashir, informed largely by his extremist Islamic inclinations. Like their Sudanese counterparts, South Sudanese have been celebrating the departure of Al Bashir, with hopes of a possibility of a renewed bond defined by improved social, political, cultural, and economic relations with South Sudan raised in the Sudan. The excitements on the streets of Juba and elsewhere tell a story of a people relieved of Al Bashirs oppressive rule. Deep in their hearts and minds, however, there are lingering feelings of doubts, uncertainty and even worry about these new developments in the Sudan. There are feelings of uncertainty and doubts because of the subjugation the successive Khartoum regimes carried out against South Sudanese, where regimes changed but nothing changed positively in terms of the relations between the North and the South. Bashir is the 4th Sudanese leader ousted through popular uprising since Sudans independence 1956 and none of these changes of leadership at the center in Khartoum brought any significant positive change in the relations between the North and the South. Even after the separation of South Sudan from Sudan in 2011 following many years of protracted wars, relations have not improved. South Sudan still has unimplemented agreements with Sudan, including the Cooperation Agreement of September 2012 and parts of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) pertaining to the region of Abyei. The Cooperation Agreement addresses 8 matters, which form 8 agreements, that include (1) oil and related economic matters, (2) status of nationals in counterpart state, (3) border issues including demarcation, (4) central bank issues, (5) trade & related issues, (6) assets, liabilities, arrears & claims, (7) post services benefit (such as pensions), and (8) security arrangements. Most of 8 agreements in the Cooperation Agreement have hardly been implemented, with the exception of oil agreement to a certain degree. While most of the CPA was implemented, particularly protocol pertaining to the southern region, the Abyei Protocol and border demarcation clauses remain unimplemented. Abyei people were supposed to decide through a referendum whether they should join South Sudan or be part of Sudan. Therefore, while Bashirs ouster excites people, they are also uncertain of what follows next given the fact that several regimes have been changed in the Sudan since 1956 but no concrete positive change has come to the periphery of the Sudan. So, people want to know whether things would change for the better or it would be business as usual. One inescapable question in the minds of many South Sudanese is what the change of guard in the Sudan represents in terms of its relationship with South Sudan. Another question pertains to the impact Al Bashirs departure has on the Peace Agreement he helped the South Sudanese belligerents signed in September last year. This paper seeks to answer these questions in order to provide a concise view on the political dynamics in Sudan as seen from across the southern border. The hope is that this analysis could help us better understand the mixed feelings euphoria, worry, and fear generated by the on-going developments in Sudan. It is apparent that citizens in both countries are concerned by the situation given that the events remain fluid and precarious, as the actors remain divided on the way forward. One particularly important matter of concern is the possibility of Al-Bashirs allies infiltrating the transitional government. This review starts with highlights into key developments leading to the fall of President Bashir, followed by a look into subsequent events. The second section looks at potential challenges and opportunities in this crisis as regards the relationship between Sudan and South Sudan. The review concludes with a number of recommendations. WASHINGTON - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Wednesday that new revelations about President Donald Trump's past tax filings show the need for congressional Democrats to see those returns, which the administration is refusing to provide. A report published in The New York Times, based on previously unrevealed figures from the president's federal tax information, says Trump reported a total of $1.17 billion in losses from 1985 to 1994 from businesses including casinos, hotels and apartment buildings. While contending that the report didn't reveal anything new about the president, Pelosi, D-Calif., quoted the 1924 law that is the basis of repeated requests from the House Ways and Means Committee chairman to view Trump's returns. The law says the treasury secretary "shall furnish" tax returns of any individual to the chairmen of Congress' tax-writing committees if asked. "He's the president of the United States; we're going to try to get some work done with him, but we do have a responsibility to our own oath of office: to protect and defend the Constitution, to do just that. He takes the same oath. I don't think he takes it seriously, so it tells me nothing," Pelosi said of the Times report. "It does tell us, though, that it would be useful to see his tax returns, as the law says, the administration 'shall' give the - 'shall.' It doesn't say 'may, should, could, under certain circumstances.' It says 'shall' give those tax returns to the Ways and Means chairman." Pelosi's comments at a Washington Post Live event come two days after Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin informed Ways and Means Chairman Richard Neal, D-Mass., that he would not be turning over the past six years' worth of Trump's personal and business tax returns as requested. Mnuchin said that after consulting with the Department of Justice, a determination had been made that releasing the returns would be unlawful because of potential privacy violations. Mnuchin also questioned Neal's basis for seeking the returns, disputing Neal's argument that his request has a legitimate legislative basis to assist with the committee's oversight responsibilities. Neal suggested Tuesday that his next step could be to take the issue straight to court, where he has long predicted it would end up. Neal said he would be consulting with House lawyers on Thursday before making a decision, but he noted that the administration has been ignoring subpoenas, suggesting there was no point in taking intervening steps before filing suit. Pelosi said she would defer to Neal, but she also said: "There are several options. One of them is to go directly to court." Washington Post reporter Robert Costa, who was interviewing Pelosi, raised the prospect of holding Mnuchin in contempt or arresting him, but Pelosi laughed that off. "Well let me just say, we do have a little jail down in the basement of the Capitol," Pelosi said. "But if we were arresting all of the people in the administration, we would have an overcrowded jail situation, and I'm not for that." Trump has long resisted releasing his tax returns, something every president since Richard Nixon has done voluntarily. He's offered varying rationales, including claiming he could not release his returns under audit, even though numerous experts have said that would be no impediment to releasing them if he chose. Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen told Congress earlier this year that Trump's returns were never under audit and that Trump did not want scrutiny of his financial affairs. The New York Times report sheds light on why that might be the case. The report finds that during the same period Trump was promoting himself as a business prodigy, he was racking up massive debts from losing enterprises. The magnitude of Trump's losses allowed him to avoid paying taxes in eight of the 10 years The Times examined - and he lost more money than almost any other taxpayer over that time, The Times says. The decade examined by The Times, from 1985-1994, is a different time period from the years of returns sought by Neal, which are 2013-2018. But the findings by The Times puncture elements of the persona Trump built over the years - as a successful businessman - which was a central selling point in his campaign for president. A former New Canaan woman pleaded guilty Tuesday in a Virginia courtroom to embezzling about $100,000 from her grandchildren by spending her late sons insurance policy. Frances Ireland, 71, was given a five-year suspended jail sentence after pleading guilty in Bedford County Circuit Court in Virginia. In court, a Commonwealth County attorney said Ireland used the money to fuel her gambling habit. Ireland and her late husband David Walter Ireland, a retired New Canaan police officer, moved to Virginia about 20 years ago. She was arrested on Sept. 18, 2018 on a charge of felony embezzlement. Im sorry. I dont know what happened, she said in court, according to The News and Advance that covered the case.. Her son, David Peter Ireland, designated his two children, currently ages 15 and 19, as beneficiaries of his life insurance policy. David Ireland , who had also moved to Virginia with his family, died on Sept. 21, 2014 at age 38. He was the former owner of Dave's Precision auto shop in Danbury, Conn. In late November 2014, his mother received more than $100,000 as custodian of the funds, since his oldest daughter Skyler was still a minor at the time. The News and Advance reported that Bedford Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Stephanie Ayers said Frances Ireland opened bank accounts in her grandchildrens names and used the money from her sons policy to support her own gambling habit. The Virginia newspaper reported that while on the witness stand, both teens and their mother all asked for some jail time for Ireland. Their mother, Jessica Reynolds, said Ireland hasnt shown remorse for what happened or repaid any of the money. Documents in a civil case to recover the payout money, which was filed soon after Irelands eldest grandchild turned 18 in August 2017, state Ireland never provided any accounting of the life insurance funds when requested to do so. Webster Hogeland, who represented Ireland, said she admitted to her gambling problem and lost everything she had. He added her husband had nothing to do with what happened. Ireland intends to pay her grandchildren back, he said. Civil cases against Ireland to pay back the money are still open. WASHINGTON The partisan divide in Congress over paid family leave was in sharp focus at a House Ways and Means Committee hearing Wednesday where Democrats offered support for a tax-funded federal requirement while Republicans suggested tax incentives to encourage employers to provide such a benefit. House Democrats, who now hold the majority, are considering legislation that would build on the Clinton-era Family and Medical Leave Act that now allows employees to take up to three months of unpaid leave for the birth of a child or to care for a sick family member without fear of losing their job. Legislation offered by Representative Rosa DeLauro would provide paid family leave through a new employer-employee tax. California already has a state version of the bill and Washington state is setting up a similar program too. Connecticut is debating a paid Family and Medical Leave bill that would require employees to contribute 0.5 percent of their paycheck to the fund. Workers would then be allowed to access a portion of their wages for up to 12 weeks of leave. Every business in Connecticut with as few as one employee would be required to participate, and solo business owners would also be allowed to opt into the system. Nearly all workers will need to take time away from work at some point to deal with serious personal health issues, to care for a family member, or to welcome a new child. But for middle-class workers, especially those on the lower end of the pay scale, taking unpaid leave makes it impossible to make ends meet, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal of Massachusetts said. Neal noted that the Family and Medical Leave Act has been used more than 200 million times since it became law over 25 years ago without much complaint from businesses. But, he said, many families miss out because they cant afford to take time off without pay. While Congress has not addressed the issue, Neal said states are doing so. Massachusetts will be the sixth when its program launches in 2021. Representative Kenny Marchant of Texas said he supports paid family leave but prefers that Congress provide tax incentives to encourage employers to offer the benefit rather than establish a costly new federal program based on a payroll tax. Many businesses are leaving these utopian states and relocating in states that do not have that kind of taxation, he said. Rachel Greszler, a research fellow at the conservative Heritage Foundation, was a witness at the hearing. She argued against establishing a comprehensive federal program for paid leave saying the costs would fall heavily on low-income wage earners, and that a federal program would crowd out employer- and state-based family programs that are emerging. She noted research that has found that two thirds of employees who take leave were paid by their employers through personal days, paid time off benefits or temporary disability insurance benefits. To pay for DeLauros proposal, she said, it would require a payroll tax of between 0.4 percent and 2.9 percent, or between $120 and $870 more in taxes for someone making $30,000 a year. Pronita Gupta of the Center for Law and Social Policy was a witness at the hearing. She pointed to studies that have found the majority of African-American, Latino and low-wage employees cannot afford to take unpaid leave. Relying on tax incentives or state strategies is not enough. It leaves huge gaps in access, she said. Gupta noted that there are cost benefits to paid family leave. A California study found the program has led to an 11 percent decline among the elderly in nursing home use. Representative John Larson proudly noted that Connecticut was the first state to pass a family and medical leave law, singling out efforts by former Senator Chris Dodd and DeLauro, who was Dodds chief of staff when the law was considered. Larson was in the state Senate when Connecticut adopted its law. Much of the impetus for the family leave law, he said, was in response to Yale University Professor Edward Ziegler, whom he described as a champion for early childhood care. As to the current debate, Larson cautioned against calls for flexibility saying that is often a code word for doing nothing. He also spoke out against an alternative plan Senate Republicans have offered that would allow individuals to tap into future Social Security benefits to pay for family leave. Talk about robbing Peter to pay Paul. Robbing from one generation to pay for another, he scoffed. HARTFORD The House is expected to debate an increase in the minimum wage Wednesday, but theres still a lot to be negotiated, including whether tipped workers should receive an increase too. The Appropriations Committee sent a bill to the House Tuesday that increases the state minimum hourly wage from $10.10 to $12 on Jan. 1, 2020; from $12 to $13.50 on Jan. 1, 2021; and from $13.50 to $15 on Jan. 1, 2022. It would also increase the wage tipped workers and bartenders receive and then index it in future years. The contentious debate Tuesday held up the start of the House session. Republicans opposed the legislation, but a number of Democratic lawmakers expressed concern and asked for negotiations to continue. It passed committee by a 32-19 vote. Sen. Craig Miner, R-Litchfield, said he cant imagine operating a full family on a minimum wage, but he cant support the bill. He said the bill is exactly the same one approved by the Labor Committee. He said not one word was changed to accommodate the concerns of small businesses or restaurants. He said he doesnt believe there will be changes to the legislation before the House or the Senate vote. Rep. Toni Walker, D-New Haven, said if people are earning slightly above the minimum wage, $12 an hour, and are working 35 hours per week, they are making $420 per week. An increase to $15 an hour, that same person will be making $525 per week in three or four years. She said based on the cost of living in Connecticut, someone needs to make $19 an hour to make it and afford it. The quality of life should be afforded for all, Walker said. I am very saddened by many of the conversations today because we spend more time talking about what we shouldnt do for the people of Connecticut as opposed to what we should do, she added. Sen. Paul Formia, R-East Lyme, said small business owners like himself are not the enemy. He said his workers earn their wages at his restaurant and improve their lives. In business, the most important asset you have is the people on the frontline, Formica said. He said servers can earn between $19 and $40 an hour. I take exception when people say business doesnt provide for quality of life, Formica said. House Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, D-Berlin, said the tipped credit is still an outstanding issue and he needs to talk with his members about it. Aresimowicz said its his understanding that they would increase the minimum wage over four years instead of three years and allow for a youth employment wage. He said 16- and 17-year-olds will be able to work for up to 85 percent of the minimum wage for up to 90 days. The tipped credit has still yet to be determined, Aresimowicz said Tuesday during his pre-session briefing. He said they could decouple the tipped credit from the minimum wage. Sen. Cathy Osten, D-Sprague, said she thinks they need to take into consideration the small restaurants. She disagreed with her co-chair on the issue. This is not a living wage, Osten said. This is not going to stop someone from working two jobs. NORWALK A Norwalk man tipped investigators off to his own alleged wrongdoing when he called police late Sunday about an altercation at a South Norwalk liquor store. Police said Wilmer Zamora-Zamora, 35, incriminated himself on Sunday when he called police to report an alleged assault. In speaking with officers, however, he admitted he was staying at a home on Woodward Avenue from which he is currently barred by court order. Zamora-Zamora contacted police just before 5 p.m. Sunday to report an assault that occurred inside the Woodward Liquor Store, 50 Woodward Ave. Police spokesman Lt. Paul Resnick said responding officers found a very drunk Zamora-Zamora who told police he had been punched in the face. Employees of the store told police that Zamora-Zamora had been acting obnoxiously inside of the store and harassing customers prior to the incident, which they claimed not to see. As officers investigated the incident, they were approached by a man who admitted he had been the one to punch Zamora-Zamora. The man told police he had been eating in the corner of the store when Zamora-Zamora, unprompted, began poking him in the chest, at which point the man struck him. Resnick said the officers asked Zamora-Zamora repeatedly if he wanted to press charges against the man, but he was too drunk to respond to police. The next day police went to the Woodward Avenue residence that Zamora-Zamora was barred from and found him there. He was arrested on the spot and charged with violation of a standing criminal protective order. He was held on $50,000 bond and given a court date of May 7. A cheesemakers job is to make cheese, dont you think? Mateo Kehler and his brother Andy do make cheese world class cheese but only as a means to create and support the community that revolves around it. Theyre working on a new model for rural America. But first to the cheese. Jasper Hill Farm, the brothers cheese business, grew out of a love for the very rural Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. There they create award winning cheeses: Alpha Tolman, a bold alpine style; creamy Bayley Hazen Blue (their flagship cheese); soft-ripened woodsy Harbison; Moses Sleeper in the style of French brie; buttery Willoughby with a washed rind; and spruce-wrapped Winnimere. The award-winning cheeses are all made with raw cows milk from the farms herd of Ayrshire cows as well as a neighboring herd. They have been recognized as some of the best cheeses being made in America today. Mateo Kehler came to town as part of the 10thth year anniversary celebration of The Fairfield Cheese Co. His cheeses are a core part of the stores carefully selected American-farmstead cheese offerings. A group of enthusiastic cheese lovers gathered on a recent Friday evening at the Two Roads Area Two Brewery in Stratford for an evening of cheese talk, cheese, and beer. I cant think of anything better. Before the presentation, Mateo told me that cheese was the easy part business was hard. Since he produces some exceptional cheese (and that cant be easy), I didnt really understand what he was getting at. During his talk, I came to understand that he had a very broad definition of business and the farms goals were indeed lofty. The brothers see Jasper Hill as a model for restoring viability to the rapidly shrinking world of small family farms in rural America. Yes, they make amazing cheese, but they choose to do it in a remote place far from markets, transportation, and suppliers where winter is long and hard. Its a place where their work and success have a positive impact on their neighbors and on a traditional way of life worth saving. We do it the hard way, Mateo said. Cheese is, for us, just a way to transform the community economically and socially. The project started with just the two brothers. Their wives joined in to make the farm viable. Now there are 91 people in their cheese community this in the small town of Greensboro, pop. 762. Keeping the business local, they say their future lies within a 15-mile radius of the cow barn. The exceptional quality of Jasper Hill cheeses can be attributed to an obsessive attention to detail. Their cheeses are all made with raw milk a tricky business requiring meticulous sanitation, rigorous milking and cheese-making procedures, and an understanding that this is not the easy or cheap way. The reward is cheese with a sense of terroir. You know from the first bite it comes from a specific and special place and has a quantifiable deliciousness. Theres no success without deliciousness, Mateo asserted. The Jasper Hill farming system produces a rich microbial environment that yields big, bold, delicious cheese. The idea is so central to the farm that they have a sensory team that meets regularly to taste the cheese and measure the deliciousness factor. Deliciousness is like a religion at Jasper Hill, he said. In order to thrive, the business must grow, so a few years ago The Cellars at Jasper Farms were built to age and mature Jasper Hill cheese along with cheese from a few other local farms, a process known as affinage. The 22,000-square-foot underground facility has seven climate controlled rooms, each a unique cheese environment. In addition to the Jasper Hill cheeses, the Cellars age the enormously successful Cabot Clothbound Cheddar and cheeses from three other local farms. Six producers, six herds, twelve cheeses, is how they describe it. With marketing and distribution expertise, their goal is to provide specialized shops and restaurants nationwide with perfectly ripe, delicious, single source cheeses from the verdant working landscape of Vermont. To introduce the evening, Chris Palumbo and Laura Downey talked about their experience starting The Fairfield Cheese Co in the economic valley of 2009. Much like Kehler, they talked about the community of cheese lovers who gather around their store and support it. The cheeses are not cheap, but they are delicious and each personally chosen example expresses the place where it was made and the character of the cheese maker. With his broad smile, shoulder length curly hair, no nonsense manner, and looking a little like Mel Gibson, Mateo is an enthusiastic and effective advocate for his farm and his region. Asked a question about cheesemaking, hes happy to get down in the weeds of microbial activity, sources of fodder, and barn sanitation. But he really lights up when he talks about the potential for the model theyve established at Jasper Hill to brighten the future of rural farming. Frank Whitman can be reached at NotBreadAloneFW@gmail.com. President Donald Trump's threat to impose massive new tariffs on China Friday has fractured Senate Republicans, with many hoping it's just a negotiating ploy, some cheering him on and others opposed to his "Tariff Man" strategy altogether. Trump's tough stance against China has also won the president an unlikely ally in Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who tweeted at him to "hang tough" and "don't back down" from his threat of more tariffs. More than any other issue, trade under Trump has scrambled party loyalties, especially when it comes to holding China accountable for stealing intellectual property and other commercial abuses. Voters are divided by geography and industry, rather than ideology, with many of Trump's supporters in rural America bearing the brunt of China's retaliation against U.S. commodities. That leaves Republican senators who are up for re-election weighing whether their voters want them to support Trump wholeheartedly, or take a stand to support their economic interests. This question became even more urgent after Trump tweeted on Sunday that he will raise tariffs on about $200 billion in goods to 25 percent from 10 percent, setting up a tense atmosphere for Chinese negotiators traveling to Washington this week. "I hope it's just the president's way of negotiating," said Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a member of Republican leadership. She has been pushing to end the tariff fights as she runs for re-election in a largely agricultural state. "We've seen him do this in the past and it brings people to the table, so I'm just going to write it off as just his way of doing business," Ernst said. Meanwhile, Sen. Cory Gardner of Colorado said he fully opposes Trump's tariffs, saying there are other ways to confront China. "I think we need to find a solution to make China comply with the responsible rules of trade, but tariffs are taxing Americans, which I don't support," he said. Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina was one of the few senators running for re-election next year simply cheering on the president's strategy. "I think that the president's trying to go into the negotiations with China from a position of strength, and as far as I'm concerned it was a good move leading up to it," Tillis said. "The president understands China's economic fundamentals and the importance of trade with the United States." Ernst, Gardner and Tillis all are Republicans running for re-election next year. While many Democrats say they are also concerned about China's unfair trade practices, they have suggested other avenues for the U.S. to hold that country to account. New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez, the top Democrat on the Foreign Relations Committee, said he would rather take the case to the multilateral institutions like the World Trade Organization already set up to mediate trade disputes. "The way to deal with China in all of its iterations is by organizing what was started at the end of the Obama administration: an international coalition to challenge China at the WTO and make China an outlier," Menendez said. Starting a trade war, he said, is "hurting U.S. companies, it's not moving the Chinese where we want them and it's not the way to deal with it." Sen. Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia, said additional sanctions would only "magnify the pain" for Americans, especially farmers, whose livelihoods depend on the products that have been targeted by Chinese retaliation. "Who's the trade war on? Is it on our own people or is it on China?" Kaine said, adding that presidents shouldn't have the authority to raise tariffs without a vote in Congress. While Republicans are generally more restrained in their opposition to Trump's trade strategy, many of them say they hope China and the U.S. are nearing a resolution to the dispute that has cast a pall of uncertainty over global markets and supply chains. Sen. John Cornyn of Texas said ramping up tariffs hurts everybody. "This could be just the president's way of trying to get to a final conclusion," he said. Senate Agriculture Chairman Pat Roberts of Kansas said he hopes the president's threat will get the Chinese to cut a deal, but said it would be "helpful" if he would hold off for a few more days to give negotiations another chance. In farm country, Roberts said, there are "a lot of people that had their hopes up" for a deal. South Dakota Sen. John Thune, also a member of GOP leadership, said he understands the need to draw "a hard line" with China. But he said he and his Republican colleagues have tried to make the White House aware of the economic price paid by Americans for current tariffs -- and for additional tariffs that Trump continues to threaten. "I hope it has the desired result because we do need to close these deals out," Thune said in an interview with Bloomberg TV. "We do have a lot of industries and sectors of industries in this country that are being harmed by these trade tariffs that are already in place and could be further harmed if they ratchet it up." By Jacob J Akol* As South Africans head for the ballot box today, for the sixth time since the release of Nelson Mandela in 1990, the so called born-free generation, which never experienced apartheid at its height, are registering disLand, The Apartheid s Original Sin, Haunts South African Elections. illusionment with the system and the party which promise much and deliver little. Voting after voting does not seem to alter their poor status and would therefore prefer not to vote at all, according to media reports. In the concluding pages of Burden of Nationality, Memoirs of an African Aidworker/journalists 1970s -1990s, published in 2006, I referred to South Africa thus: In the Republic of South Africa, democracy, economic growth and racial harmony appear to be jogging along fine under the government of the African National Congress (ANC). But the gap between the very poor majority and the very rich minority is nowhere near narrowing. Unemployment is as much a challenge as is the issue of healthcare, greatly threatened by HIV/AIDS infections. It went on to say: Shocking reports of white farmers treating their African farm workers contemptuously do quite rightly inflame feelings among black South Africans that racial bigotry continues long after the end of apartheid. Press reports such as a white man tied a black worker to the back of his pick-up van and drove around the town (Welkom) for more than 5 km, dragging his body on the ground. Pieces of his flesh and blood lay strewn on the concrete tarmac, [1] or that of another white man (a construction company owner) who was accused of beating up a troublesome black worker and later feeding him to lions: Ronel Otto, a police spoke person, said witnesses had told the police that Scott-Crossly had beaten up Chisela, tied him up, drove him to the Mokwalo White Lion Breading Project, and threw him over into a lion enclosure. Crossly and his three workers then allegedly watched as a lion mauled Chisela and dragged him into the bushes. [2] There are many examples of these grisly and racially motivated acts that have been going in South African since the end of the apartheid system. But much more serious is the issue of land. With so much productive land in the hands of minority Whites, this single issue is most likely to derail any racial harmony if not handled with care and wisdom. So far it leaves a lot to be desired. Cosatu, the largest trade union in South Africa, was rightly outraged (by reports of continued White farmers ill-treatment of their African workers): Ten years after our democratic breakthrough, farm workers have no democracy, no freedom, no human rights. They are still treated as slaves and humiliated every day. South Africas farmers are ticking bombs. Unless we can transform the lives of farm workers, we will see an explosion of anger which will make the situation in Zimbabwe look like a Sunday school picnic. What has changed? Journalist Christopher Clark of Global/ The Atlantic , reported from Zolani, South Africa in May last year: On the outskirts of this overcrowded township in South Africas Cape Winelands, Phumlani Zota, a 32-year-old pig farmer, sifted through piles of waste in a refuse dump beneath the Langeberg mountains, filling a burlap sack with scraps of food for his livestock. There is not enough land here, he told me. Yet on all sides, the impoverished settlement was hemmed in by great tracts of white-owned farmland, neat rows of fruit trees and grapevines punctuated by ornate Cape Dutch architecture. The disjuncture is jarring, but mirrored all over South Africa. During apartheid, Zolani was designated a blacks only area by the Group Areas Act , one of about two dozen federal policies that dramatically restricted black South Africans access to land and opportunity. Today, the township stands as contemporary evidence of the wholesale land dispossessions carried out by successive colonial regimes, from the 17th century until as recently as the 1980s. The Nation (Nairobi) added a few statistics: Twenty-five years after the end of apartheid, racial inequality remains baked into South Africas economic and social fabric, and recently, the farming industry has come under a particularly harsh spotlight. Though the geography of South Africa is dominated by agricultural land, black Africans own just 4 percent of individual farms; by contrast, 72 percent are owned by white people, even though whites make up less than 10 percent of the population. BBCs Southern Africa correspondent, Andrew Harding, reported on 30 May 2018 in an article titled: South Africans anger over land set to explode: In a country grappling with so many different challenges, land reform in South Africa has recently emerged as a dominant and potentially explosive issue - the focus of furious political contestation and increasingly inflammatory rhetoric. "Africa is for black people. Period. We need our land back and we're going to take it by force," said a woman amongst an angry crowd trying to occupy a field on the northeastern edge of Johannesburg. Slow pace of land reforms have led to confrontations. "Democracy?" scoffed a community leader called Mafasi Kubai, after listening to the pleas of a police captain. "How can we participate when some are super rich and others are poor? Whites should be empathetic but they are exploiting us." 'No longer about willing buyer, willing seller' Across South Africa, such scenes and confrontations are becoming more common, as frustration with the slow pace of land reform grows. And with it, frequently, is a growing bitterness about the enduring economic power of the country's white minority. The country's new President Cyril Ramaphosa - who describes the land dispossession of the black majority during the apartheid era as South Africa's "original sin" - has promised to accelerate land reform, with an early focus on unused urban land. Good luck! NORWALK High school seniors may soon be required to complete a single-credit, pass-fail capstone requirement before graduating. The Board of Education voted in favor on Tuesday of the concept of a Capstone Experience, which is intended to provide hands-on, real-world experience that the district hopes will lead to students continued success after high school. Its interesting that, at the time were putting this together, the state of Connecticut no longer requires a capstone for each graduating senior, Norwalk Public Schools Chief of School Operations Frank Costanzo said at the boards meeting in the library of Brien McMahon High School. But we believe a capstone experience is a necessary piece in a high-schoolers four-year experience. A culminating exercise that really provides the student with an opportunity to demonstrate the requisite knowledge and skills that theyve developed over time. Goals include getting children to use their minds well, creating a climate of decency and trust and allow students to demonstrate mastery of a subject, through a series of educational pathways that students will be able to choose from based on their respective interests. Our vision is that most of our students will work on their capstone and discover their capstone through their pathway. We imagine this may either be through classes that are offered with the pathway, or special opportunities that are offered through individual pathways, said Julie Parham, director of the Center for Global Studies and one of more than two dozen Norwalk Public School employees who helped develop the concept over the past several years. Within each of the pathways, students would be given an adviser to assist them in making choices and guide their educational experience. Capstones could include journalism, graphic design, web design, engineering, computer science, or linguistics, among many others. Students whose interests dont fit within the pathways model would have the option to enroll in a capstone seminar course or an independent study, which would allow for the highest level of self-directed learning. The sequence will begin in ninth grade with an introduction to the expectations of the program. In 10th grade, students will complete their capstone proposals in the spring and in 11th and 12th grade, theyll complete capstone internships, present their capstone for assessment and present their final results. The purpose of the four-step sequence is to create uniformity across Norwalks four secondary educational institutions, while also granting each respective school autonomy and utilize its respective resources. When we were coming up with this sequence, we decided to come up with a four-step plan that allows each institution to apply it to their students the best way that their institution feels would foster this in their students, said Norwalk High School English teacher Anthony Rodriguez. We have multiple pathways, but we have are these cross-cutting features of quality that we use in each one of those, said Norwalk Public School Chief Academic Officer Brenda Myers. Costanzo laid out what he called an ambitious timeline for the roll-out of the capstone. This spring and summer, the district will design the required ninth-grade lessons and the capstone proposal process, develop teacher training and develop a capstone guidebook. In the fall, the district will offer capstone professional development for all high-school teachers, create teams to articulate capstone opportunities within pathways and introduce capstone requirements in advisory. By spring 2020, the districts Program of Studies will be updated to reflect the capstone seminar course. And by summer 2020, the curriculum will be developed for the capstone seminar course. According to the schedule, the first capstone credits would be administer the to graduating class of 2023. We are not the first in Connecticut to do this, there have been many fine, mostly suburban school districts, ahead of us in terms of the 25 credits and the capstone requirement, Superintendent of Schools Steven J. Adamowski said. But the advantage is youve had the opportunity to look at that work and do something better, take it to the next level. And you appear from the recommendations to have done that. justin.papp@scni.com; @justinjpapp1; 203-842-2586 Northwest senior Carley Cuba said the senior class would like to see Reha honored in some way. This past Friday, she and three other seniors organized a walkout in protest of Reha not being honored at graduation. Cuba said the decision to have the walkout was kind of last-minute, but the news of it spread around Northwest really fast, especially after it was posted to social media. The initial plan was to do it inside, sit on the floor and show the administration that way, she said. But since they ended up giving him his diploma, we decided to still do something for him because we cannot do anything for him for graduation. We went outside and there were some pictures of Ricky with words on it that we all signed. We invited everyone, even if they were not really friends with him. Cuba said there were approximately 50 students who participated in the walkout. She added she and her classmates educated students about suicide prevention during the walkout. Fisher said Northwest will have an empty chair placed with the graduates at Sundays commencement ceremony and those in attendance can associate it with whomever they wish. If it was a groundless proceeding, if it was based on false allegations, uh, the president does not have to sit there, constitutionally, and let it run its course, Barr testified. The president could terminate that proceeding and it would not be corrupt intent, because he was being falsely accused. (FLASHBACK: We can still hear former president Richard Nixon, who ordered the infamous Saturday Night Massacre and ended up a resigned-in-disgrace private citizen, telling interviewer David Frost: But when the president does it that means it is not illegal.) Barr, being a smart man, knew precisely what he was doing a month ago, when he issued his infamous March 24 mini-memo to Congress after receiving the special counsels report on Russias interference in the 2016 election and Team Trumps Russia connections. Barr provided as little actual news as possible just saying Mueller found no Trump Team conspiracy with Russia and he found no proof of obstruction of justice. Period. Then Barr clamped on a news blackout, gifting Trump with several weeks where he could lie to Americans that hed been totally exonerated so people might tire of the yammer before the full report came out. Albers proposed the bill as a way to keep 18-year-old high school students from legally buying e-cigarettes and giving or selling them to younger students. Grand Island Public Schools has put together a video featuring principals of all four high schools in Grand Island, along with Albers, Officer Wes Tjaden and Tobacco Free Hall County coordinator Michaela Perry. The video explains the dangers and the negative impact of vaping. The videos purpose is to raise awareness for parents and show that e-cigzrettes use is everywhere not just Grand Island Senior High or Grand Island Central Catholic, which recently banned use of USB drives in school because they look like e-cigarettes. This bill takes a common-sense approach to addressing a public health threat to the states teenagers. The reduction of the age minimum to 19 is regrettable, but its still a good first step. The Legislature should pass Quicks bill and then give serious consideration next year to increasing the age to 21. It is also very encouraging that the Legislature gave final approval last week to Sen. Steve Hallorans bill that would make it illegal to use deceptive caller ID to defraud people. CARLINVILLE Based on a recommendation from a group of Carlinville High School seniors, state Sen. Andy Manar is sponsoring legislation to make daylight saving time the year-round standard in Illinois. Senate Bill 533 would eliminate the statewide practice of moving clocks ahead by an hour on the second Sunday of March every year. The legislation was spurred by a group of Carlinville High School seniors who put together an action plan for their civics class and chose to ask lawmakers to eliminate the time change in Illinois. They sought a meeting with Manar (D-Bunker Hill) and made their case to him directly. After their presentation, during which I peppered them with numerous questions, I committed to them that I would introduce legislation in the Illinois Senate to make daylight saving time the standard, year-round time in Illinois, Manar said. I was impressed with the very strong case they presented, and their proposal deserves a debate in Springfield. The students Andrew DeNeve, Tyler Behme, Travis Osborn, Tristen Burns and Tucker Green agreed to present their research before a Senate committee when the legislation advances in Springfield. DeNeve, 18, of Carlinville, said he personally finds the switch between daylight saving and standard time to be an annoyance and a distraction. He proposed the idea to his civics group, and the students agreed it would be a good issue to pursue. Spring forward especially is annoying because everybody loses an hour of sleep, and it just leads to an unproductive week overall at school, DeNeve said. Logan Ridenour has been teaching civics for seven years at Carlinville, which has been recognized by the McCormick Foundation as an Illinois Democracy School. All seniors are required to take his course and complete a civics action plan. They must pick an issue for which they want to advocate, write up a proposal, then dig into the policy and figure out who they need to meet with to make their case and effect change. They also have to run a public relations campaign for their issue on Twitter and record a public service announcement. Ridenour said that while he encourages students to pick an issue with a local focus, the students in DeNeves group chose a topic with statewide interest. They surpassed all expectations, he said. These are good, dedicated kids with varied backgrounds and future plans, and they were able to sit down and work through it and get it all hammered out. Thats part of being a member of an active citizenry. You have to know the avenues. If I see something I dont like and I want to make a change, how do I go about it? DeNeve, who will attend Princeton University after graduation later this month, said the project has helped him learn a lot about being an engaged citizen. Honestly, none of us thought this would get very far, so we were excited with Senator Manar said he would author a bill. We kind of expected a rejection there, DeNeve said. Its been exciting for us and its taught us that our elected officials are there represent us and that citizens play a crucial part in our lawmaking process by coming up with the ideas. I think it worked better than I expected it to. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) Windsor, England Wed, May 8, 2019 09:08 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736b8682 2 Lifestyle royal-baby,royals,Britain,Prince-Harry,Meghan-Markle,Duchess-of-Sussex,Windsor Free Fans celebrated the arrival of the latest British royal, a son born to Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, by taking to the streets on Monday outside the royal castle in Windsor and Buckingham Palace in London. Shortly after a beaming Harry, Queen Elizabeth's grandson, announced the birth to media, revelers began their celebrations. "I've been sleeping out for three days ... I'm delighted they have a healthy baby and a healthy mother," said John Loughrey, a 64-year old royal fan in Windsor, west of London. "We celebrated with them today with champagne, we'll have fish and chips and a slice of American pie!" Britain's royal family attracts huge media interest but the younger members, especially Harry, 34, and Meghan, 37, a US-born former actress, are treated like Hollywood superstars. Read also: Meghan, Britain's Duchess of Sussex and wife of Prince Harry, gives birth to boy Excited tourists mixed with a handful of "superfans" clad in Union Jacks and carrying baby balloons in the street surrounding the royal family's Windsor castle estate. Harry was present for the birth of his son, who is seventh in line to the British throne. Doria Ragland, Meghan's mother, was also with the couple at their home, Frogmore Cottage, on the estate of Windsor Castle where they married in a lavish ceremony in May last year. "I just headed over to Buckingham Palace to see everyone else celebrating the baby," said student Nicole Wilcox. "I was very excited, today is actually my last day in London, so the fact that she had the baby while I am still here was really exciting." Fans and tourists gathered at Buckingham Palace whooped and cheered when, as is traditional, a framed notice of the birth was brought out and placed on a gold-colored easel in the palace forecourt. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) Rome, Italy Wed, May 8, 2019 20:01 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736e8bda 2 Books Auschwitz,Museum,Italy,Fascism,Altaforte,Francesco-Polacchi,book-fair Free The Auschwitz-Birkenau holocaust museum said on Tuesday it will boycott Turin's prestigious international book fair if a publishing house close to an Italian neo-fascist group is allowed to have a stand there. The announcement followed growing discontent in Italian literary circles over a decision by the fair's organizers to include Altaforte publishers. The firm is run by its founder Francesco Polacchi, who defines himself openly as a fascist. The fair runs from May 9-13 and the museum had been planning to hold a panel at the event on Thursday with Holocaust survivor and writer Halina Birenbaum. "We cannot ask the survivors to share the space with those who question the historical facts that led to the Holocaust, with those who re-propose a fascist idea of society," the museum wrote on Twitter. It has said it would stage the panel event elsewhere in Turin if it left the book fair. The fair's organizers said in a post on Facebook that the Italian constitution called for freedom of speech. It added that Altaforte had the right to its own stand because the group had never been convicted of crimes related to fascism. The city of Turin, which is governed by the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement, and the broader Piedmont region, which is run by the center-left Democratic Party, issued statements saying they would sue Polacchi for his fascist views. Under existing laws, pro-fascist propaganda is deemed illegal if it is seen to be part of an effort to revive the old Fascist Party. Read also: Scottish 'Holocaust heroine' who saved Jewish girls lauded in book Altaforte has recently published a book of interviews with far-right League leader Matteo Salvini, who serves as deputy prime minister and interior minister. Polacchi has dismissed the controversy over his company's presence at the fair and has asserted both his own fascist beliefs and his membership of the extremist Casapound group. "The real problem with this country is anti-fascism," Polacchi told Radio 24 this week. In an interview with La Stampa newspaper on Tuesday, he said he had never questioned the veracity of the genocide of Jews in World War Two. However, he praised Italy's fascist wartime leader Benito Mussolini as the country's greatest statesman. Contacted via his Facebook page, Polacchi made no immediate comment about the Auschwitz museum or about the decision by city and regional authorities to sue him. Some well-known writers and intellectuals have dismissed calls for a boycott of the Turin fair. They included writer Michela Murgia, who said such a boycott would be counterproductive. "We will not let Italy's most important publishing event fall into the hands of the fascists," she said. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was ready to attend the Indonesia-chaired United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting on Tuesday, but first; he made sure to don tenun traditional Indonesian textiles. "Before the meeting, he came to greet us in the presidential room carrying a brightly colored tenun shirt in his hand, without even a bag. I was surprised when he said he would leave for a moment to change into the tenun shirt," Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi told The Jakarta Post on Tuesday in New York City. Guterres and Retno met at the UN headquarters in New York, where they were attending the Indonesia-led open debate on peacekeeping operations. Read also: UN secretary-general confirmed for two Indonesia-driven UNSC sessions Tuesday's debate is one of Indonesia's main priorities during its 2019-2020 tenure of the UNSC presidency, which commenced this month. The country intends to pursue the theme of "Investing in Peace: Improving Safety and Performance of United Nations Peacekeeping" during its presidency. Retno added that her surprise continued when she entered the Security Council chamber to start the meeting, where she saw at least a dozen participants wearing batik shirts. The delegates represented around 10 different UNSC countries and were not from the Indonesian delegation. Besides the UN secretary-general, the other delegates who were seen wearing batik and tenun included UN representatives from China, the Dominican Republic, France, Germany, the Ivory Coast, Peru and the United States. "They make me feel like our countries have even closer ties to each other. I was honored to see that," she said. The batik and tenun clothing that the delegates wore were from their personal collections, said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Arrmanatha Nasir. Some delegates said that the clothing were gifts from the Indonesian delegation in New York, he added, while others had acquired the garments as souvenirs when they attended conferences in Indonesia. Guterres wore the same tenun shirt he had been given during the 2018 International Monetary Fund-World Bank meetings in Bali, Arrmanatha noted. Meanwhile, Industry Minister Airlangga Hartarto said at the Gelar Batik Nusantara event in Jakarta, on Wednesday that the Industry Ministry was making a push to support small industries in batik sectors, as they played an important role in the national economy and contributed to the countrys foreign exchange. The ministry targeted a 10 percent increase in 2019 batik and tenun exports to US$58.6 million from last years $53.3 million. The batik industry has created jobs for 15,000 people in 3,782 business units within 101 small-medium industry (IKM) centers in Java, while tenun is produced in 368 IKM centers with 14,618 business units that employ 57,972 people. [Supporting the batik industry] inspires batik artisans and the national batik industry, including the government, to continuously develop the batik industry so it can get recognition from the world, Airlangga stated as quoted by Antara news agency. Read also: Batik: A cultural dilemma of infatuation and appreciation Indonesia will hold a series of events this month, including an informal meeting on illegal settlements in Palestine and an open debate on the protection of civilians in armed conflicts. The UNSC has 15 member countries, including Indonesia, which was elected last year as a non-permanent member for the 2019-2020 term. Indonesia has been a UNSC non-permanent member three times, in 1973-1974, 1995-1996 and 2007-2008. (asw) Editor's note: added paragraph 12-14; Industry minister's statement on the Indonesian batik industry Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 14:38 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736ce5a5 4 Art & Culture cinema,film-festival,London,England,Sekala-Niskala,Buffalo-Boys,pengabdi-setan,aruna-dan-lidahnya,local-movie,Films-of-the-Archipelago-Festival Free This years Films of the Archipelago Festival in London, England is to screen four cinematic works of prominent Indonesian filmmakers in celebration of the countrys thriving film scene. Sekala Niskala by Kamila Andini, Buffalo Boys by Mike Wiluan, Pengabdi Setan (Satans Slave) by Joko Anwar and Aruna dan Lidahnya (Aruna and her Palate) by Edwin are to headline the festival. The four films are scheduled to be screened at the non-profit Deptford Cinema in South East London starting May 11. Paul Flanders, one of the volunteers working at the Deptford Cinema, said he expected this years Films of the Archipelago to draw a larger number of cinephiles than the first iteration of the festival in 2017. Londoners were very enthusiastic about the Indonesian film festival in 2017, Paul said as quoted by Antara, adding that London residents accounted for 50 percent of festival attendance two years ago. Read also: Indonesian films get spotlight at Babylon Berlin This years Films of the Archipelago Festival is supported by the Indonesian National Committee for the 2019 London Book Fair. Indonesian actress Hannah Al Rashid, who stars in Aruna, serves as the festival curator. We dont get to see many Indonesian films in London, so I was really happy to help curate this program, she wrote on her Instagram account, @hannahalrashid. (rfa/kes) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Marcel Thee (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 18:01 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736e1d89 1 Entertainment #entertainment,#music,#concert,#indie,#rockband,#Jakarta,#USA,#JapaneseBreakfast Free Live events have given music collective Noisewhore a reputation in the local music scene. Their next big show will certainly make another major wave. Korean-American musician Michelle Zauner, better known as Japanese Breakfast, will play a gig at Rossi Musik Fatmawati in South Jakarta on Monday. A popular name in the global indie rock scene, the music of Japanese Breakfast is filled with impactful emotional landscapes projected through dreamy indie pop that is catchy without sacrificing depth. Japanese Breakfast which comprises Zauner and her live band has released two albums so far: Psychopomp in 2016 and Soft Sounds from Another Planet, released the following year on the influential independent label Dead Oceans. Both records have been well received by fans and critics alike, most of whom praise Zauner's honest lyricism. Japanese Breakfast's stop-off in Indonesia will be part of an Asian tour that also includes shows in the Philippines, Thailand, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. Aside from bringing more challenging artists to the country, the people behind Noisewhore have also found pride in promoting and introducing female-led musical projects to the Indonesian scene. Their previous major show was a concert of Japanese-American musician Mitski, for which the collective specifically sought out to work with female artists for the concert poster and promotional materials (they worked with the artist Phantasien, known for her striking visual pieces). Argia Adhidhanendra, one of the collective's co-founders, says its great to see this wave of female-led acts taking off so successfully. It's something he feels positive about, but also weary. I dont expect this to tangibly change the scenes perspectives it really is a slippery slope for me personally. On the one hand, these female-led acts are so great and people can see that for themselves, but on the other hand which I can tell by experience a lot of our people love some female-led acts just because of their physical features, he says with a sigh. I can recount countless times Ive seen this on my own shows alone. So yeah, I dont believe what Im doing can tangibly change anything, but at least Im doing my bit and showing the other guys these acts are good and continue curating a good set of acts for the rest of the year. Noisewhore also finds satisfaction in bringing in musicians they are a fans of themselves. Instead of thinking of their events as a business, Argia said they've survived so far, though always by the neck of it, by being true to themselves and their values. To make sure things remain as pure as they can be, they work together with fellow creative collectives Studiorama and Pesona for the Japanese Breakfast concert. This one is pretty different. Its a bit more complex than our other shows. To be honest, we've got a lot of other shows coming this year. More than 10 in the works [...] Point is, we are at a point where we cannot be reckless. We want to do a lot of shows local shows, small shows, any kind of show basically, Argia explains, noting that staging the show in Ramadan would be extra challenging. AFP/Suzanne Cordeiro Honest lyricism: Korean-American musician Michelle Zauner of the Japanese Breakfast will give a concert in Jakarta on Monday. (Agence France-Presse/Suzanne Cordeiro ) Im sure Michelle has a lot of fans here and people are eager to see her, even though I feel like there have been so many shows since 2018 including our own shows that I wonder sometimes whether well reach the much-dreaded tiring point for the crowd. When that happens, itll be very interesting, I must say though also challenging, of course. The gauge of success is well-established, with Noisewhore having declared their own sense of satisfaction the key criterion. Soft Sounds from Another Planet is such a personal record and it blew up pretty fast. I caught her in late 2017, and although we got a lot of artists that blew up during that time, Michelle stood out, and Ive been listening to that album ever since. The opening act of the concert will be Jakarta band Jirapah, which will also promote its newly released single on Kolibri Records. Argia said he was pumped to watch the band as he had been a fan since junior high school. There will be no winding down after the Japanese Breakfast show, as Noisewhore has a lot more in store. We got some downtime after Mitski, but there will be no such thing after this [concert]. We have a lot of shows coming up, almost one a month. So this should be exciting. For you all, the crowd, I think you should expect our personal best, the output of three entities that have been around this game of doing shows for quite some time, and a fun one at that! Well be Ramadan friendly, and work-day friendly at the same time. (ste) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Simon Johnson (Reuters) Rovaniemi, Finland Wed, May 8, 2019 19:06 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736e4c0d 2 Environment Arctic,climate-change,climate,diplomat,united-states,global-warming,finland Free The United States has refused to sign an agreement on challenges in the Arctic due to discrepancies over climate change wording, diplomats said on Tuesday, jeopardizing cooperation in the polar region at the sharp edge of global warming. With Arctic temperatures rising at twice the rate of the rest of the globe, the melting ice is creating potential new shipping lanes and has opened much of the world's last untapped reserves of oil and gas to commercial exploitation A meeting of eight nations bordering the Arctic in Rovaniemi in Finland on Tuesday was supposed to frame a two-year agenda to balance the challenge of global warming with sustainable development of mineral wealth. But sources with knowledge of the discussions said the United States balked at signing a final declaration as it disagreed with wording that climate change was a serious threat to the Arctic. It was the first time a declaration had been cancelled since the Arctic Council was formed in 1996. Instead, in a brief statement, ministers from the United States, Canada, Russia, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Iceland repeated their commitment to sustainable development and the protection of the Arctic environment. Except for the United States, other nations had wanted to go further, participants said. "A majority of us regarded climate change as a fundamental challenge facing the Arctic and acknowledged the urgent need to take mitigation and adaptation actions and to strengthen resilience," talks chair and Finnish Foreign Minister Timo Soini said in a statement. "I don't want to name and blame anyone," he told reporters. Read also: Arctic nations to meet amid tensions over environment, resources Arctic oil A senior US State Department official denied Washington had again dragged its heels over global environmental action. "There were several different versions of the declaration going around. The US was ready to sign," said the official, who spoke to reporters on condition of anonymity. The idea for "a simpler, positive, unified, collective message" had come from Russia and Canada, he added. Scientists believe the Arctic contains around 13 percent of the world's undiscovered reserves of oil and 30 percent of its reserves of natural gas as well as huge deposits of minerals such as zinc, iron and rare earth metals. Harvesting them remains expensive, but melting ice is making that more feasible, as well as affecting the world's weather, and the Arctic's wildlife and indigenous residents. Addressing the Council, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said President Donald Trump's administration "shares your deep commitment to environmental stewardship" in the Arctic. But he said collective goals were not always the answer. Agreements between countries in the Arctic Council are non-binding, and Pompeo accused Russia and China of not playing by the rules as they look to assert rights over resources and trade routes. "Collective goals ... are rendered meaningless, even counter-productive as soon as one nation fails to comply," Pompeo told the Council. President Trump has frequently expressed skepticism about whether global warming is a result of human activity and has stood by his 2017 decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord signed by almost 200 governments in 2015. That has put him at odds with campaigners and many other countries. "A climate crisis in the Arctic is not a future scenario, it is happening as we speak," Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom said in her address to the Council. The Paris accord agreed to limit a rise in average global temperatures to "well below" 2C above pre-industrial times by 2100. Worldwide, temperatures are up about 1C. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Linawati Sidarto (The Jakarta Post) Leiden, the Netherlands Wed, May 8, 2019 17:59 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736d9481 1 Art & Culture #art,#ArtsandCulture,#Arts-festival,#Bali,#Leiden,#Volkenkunde-Museum,#tourism,#environment,#plastic-waste,#colonial,#Hindu Free A Dutch museum is holding its first major exhibition on one of the worlds most famous islands until May 26, covering Balis unique form of Hinduism, its bloody colonial past and current environmental threats. Our idea is that you come to the exhibition with the knowledge of a tourist and leave as a seasoned traveler, the Volkenkunde Museum's Southeast Asia curator, Francine Brinkgreve, said during the opening of the Bali Welcome to Paradise exhibition in Leiden. The Volkenkunde Museum, also called the National Museum of Ethnology, is one of the worlds oldest ethnology museums. Although it is located half a world away from the small island to the east of Java, the Netherlands has centuries of historical ties with Bali through its colonial rule of the Indonesian archipelago. Brinkgreve said the exhibition aims to raise visitors awareness of the other side of commercialization and tourist paradises [...] by using current, personal stories, historical and contemporary objects, religious and everyday art, photographs and films. Imagining paradise: Two visitors lounge in the beach chairs displayed in the entrance hall to Bali Welcome to Paradise. The exhibit runs through May 26 at the Volkenkunde Museum in Leiden, the Netherlands. (Courtesy of Museum Volkenkunde/Kirsten van Santen) The entrance hall to the exhibition has giant screens depicting paradise as waves rolling onto a white sandy beach, tourists at temples and Balinese in colorful traditional dress. Two beach chairs with a parasol are arranged invitingly in the middle of the hall. The exhibit then opens up into five thematic rooms: the first room provides tourism statistics and how these relate to the islands agriculture. A hallway filled with textiles, knick-knacks and other typical souvenirs leads to rooms showcasing Dutch colonial history in Bali and Hinduism and art. The exhibition ends in a spacious area featuring the islands main rituals, complete with a life-sized surround display. The rooms are situated in such a way that visitors start with the more obvious images of Bali and slowly get a deeper understanding of the island and its people, said the exhibition's organizer, Anna Tiedink. One subject the exhibition clearly intended to underline is Balis swelling environmental problem: immediately behind the large screen displaying the "paradise" beach is an image of the Kuta oceanfront, literally buried in plastic waste. Just across this is an equally large screen showing the typical congestion of Balis overcrowded towns. Aside from the mountain of waste left by millions of tourists, artist and environmental activist Made Bayak makes an insightful cultural observation about local contributions to the waste problem. In the past, we used to eat from leaves and discard them, which was OK, as they are biodegradable. But with plastic its very different, and our people are still not fully aware of this, he says in a video. Made also speaks about Balis water problem created by the ever-growing tourism industry. A five-star hotel uses more water in a day than a whole village does. This puts the islands agriculture, which was previously key to Balis existence, under intense pressure, particularly as acres of arable land continues to be sold to property developers and turned into resorts or villas. The looming environmental disaster does have a silver lining, the exhibition notes: below the image of Kuta's plastic horror is a video from the Soul Surf Project, one of the numerous environmental organizations that are active in Bali. The Soul Surf Project focuses on raising environmental awareness among children and encourages them to participate in tackling the problem. During our visits to Bali, we became increasingly aware of local initiatives trying to fix the plastic problem, Brinkgreve noted. She points out that "Welcome to Paradise" is the first exhibition on Bali that places the environmental issue in context: Past Bali exhibitions focused mostly on art, culture, religion and rituals. Tourist curios: Visitors look at typical Balinese souvenirs in a hallway display of the "Welcome to Paradise exhibition at the Volkenkunde Museum in Leiden, the Netherlands. (Courtesy of Museum Volkenkunde/Kirsten van Santen) A video featuring I Dewa Ayu Evayanti, a 26-year-old who works at a villa, sums up how much tourism is part of life for many Balinese: I have been selling postcards to tourists since I was in the third grade, she says. When Mount Agung rumbled and erupted in 2017, Ayu Evayanti says that the villa remained vacant for at least a month. Without tourists, wed be unemployed, she underlines. About 40 percent of the 14.4 million international tourists Indonesia received in 2017 traveled to Bali, which comprises of only 0.2 percent of the countrys total land mass. In the same year, the island also welcomed 8.7 million domestic tourists. Compare that to the hundred or so foreign tourists who visited Bali in 1900, around the time the Netherlands tightened its grip on the island. The Dutch colonized the island relatively late: it was only around the early 20th century that the Balinese kingdoms were overpowered. This period was also marked by the infamous puputan ritual, in which kings, royal families and hundreds of subjects committed mass suicide rather than surrender to their enemy. On one wall of the exhibition is a quote from painter W.O.J. Nieuwenkamp, who happened to be in Bali in 1906 to gather artefacts for the Volkenkunde Museum. His witness account of a puputan in Badung reads: Our soldiers stood with cannons at the entrance (of the palace). Every time, some hundred Balinese men, women and children went past the gates. The men stabbed the women and children to death, and ran onto the troops and offered themselves to be shot [] The king himself came out carried on a sedan chair, dressed in full ornate and ended his life like the others. Silent witness: These intricately carved wooden double doors from Badung Palace were witnesses to the tragedy that occurred in the early 20th century, when the Dutch overpowered the sultanate. At 4 meters tall, the doors are displayed at an angle to fit into the exhibition room. (Linawati Sidarto/-) The exhibition's most impressive object is a silent witness to that tragedy: a four-meter-tall, intricately carved wooden double door from the Badung Palace. They (Dutch soldiers) wanted to use the doors as a bridge above some water pipes for the use of the army they were one of the few things not yet stolen, for the simple reason that they were too heavy and too big, Nieuwenkamp observed. The exhibit explains that in order to make the Netherlands and the rest of the world forget the violence, the colonial government created the image of Bali as a paradise island. Before long, the tourism industry took off. The local arts community received an international boost from a group of European painters who worked and settled on Bali, like Walter Spies, whose work is part of the exhibition. In an essay on the exhibit published in the Trouw daily, philosophy professor Jos de Mul noted: Spies insisted that Balinese painters adjusted the format of their paintings to the size of tourists suitcases." The works of young artists are on display beside the more traditional Balinese paintings in the exhibit's Art Gallery, like I Wayan Aris Sarmantas Bali Not for Sale (Tangis Amarah Pulau Kecil), which depicts an angry, red-faced child with a crown in the shape of the island and the words Sold Out on his chest. Tiedink, who had never been to Bali prior to her research trip last year for the exhibition, said what surprised her most was how actively involved the young generation is in their religious and cultural customs, as seen in the videos on Balis life cycle rituals of marriage, teeth filing, birth ceremonies and cremation. Glaringly absent for an exhibition that tries to show the darker side of Bali, however, is mention of contemporary violence on the island: the mass killings following the failed 1965 coup blamed on Indonesian communists, and the terrorist attacks of 2002 and 2005 that killed hundreds of Balinese and foreign tourists. There was limited space, and we had to make choices, Brinkgreve said in response to the omission. Rob Badoux, a museum visitor, mostly saw the sunny side of the island. Its beautifully displayed: the rituals, the colors. This has really inspired us to go and visit Bali, he said. Hansje Heller, who visited Bali last year, said she particularly liked the combination of art and history in the exhibition. (ste) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Gemma Holliani Cahya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 09:14 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736b9234 1 National BPJS,BPJS-Kesehatan,health-ministry,contract,hospital Free The recent decision of the Healthcare and Social Security Agency (BPJS Kesehatan) to suspend collaboration with hundreds of hospitals that have not renewed their accreditation has raised concerns particularly among patients and triggered complaints from hospital managements. In the past week, hospitals in several regions have announced that they would suspend services for BPJS Kesehatan card holder patients due to the policy. However, after a brief meeting on Tuesday morning, the Health Ministry has decided to cancel the initial plan and made some compromises. Health Ministry director general for health services, Bambang Wibowo, told the press after the meeting that the hospitals which have completed their reaccreditation and are still waiting for the results can serve BPJS card holders. "As for the hospitals who just registered for the reaccreditation and are still waiting for the process to be completed, they can still provide certain health services, such as hemodialysis, chemotherapy and other emergency treatments while waiting for their accreditation [to be completed]," Bambang said. The obligation for hospitals to undergo accreditation is stipulated in Article 40 of Law No. 44/2009 on hospital accreditation which states that accreditation must be carried out periodically, at least every three years. Data from the ministry show that there are 127 hospitals whose accreditation expires between January and June this year, 67 of which have finished the reaccreditation, while 50 others are still waiting for the evaluation process. The last 10 hospitals remain in question as they have not yet registered for reaccreditation. The 10 hospitals are located in Blora regency, Central Java; Mimika regency, Papua; Seruyan regency, Central Kalimantan; East Ogan Komeling Ulu regency in South Sumatra; Bandung city in West Java, Bitung in North Sulawesi; Sarolangun regency in Jambi and three hospitals in Makasar and Sidenreng Rappang regency, South Sulawesi. We will not extend or acknowledge the cooperation between BPJS Kesehatan and hospitals who are negligent in managing their reaccreditation, Bambang said. Bambang said the official decree letter on todays meeting would be disseminated immediately to the hospitals and other stakeholders. Timboel Siregar from watchdog BPJS Watch, however, criticized the governments decision, saying the authorities should extend the deadline for reaccreditation until June 30, 2019. Dont just terminate their contract with BPJS [..]Accreditation is a requirement for the collaboration between hospitals and BPJS Kesehatan. Its also the governments way to ensure that National Health Insurance (JKN) members get safe and qualified health services, he said. An official at a Jakarta-based private hospital, who wished to remain anonymous, shared the sentiment. The hospital in which he works is one of the hospitals facing contract termination. We had been accredited with five stars for the last three years and suddenly we received an online letter stating that we could no longer serve BPJS card holder patients. We were surprised because at that time we had already registered for the reaccreditation and were waiting for the process, he said. They should support us, not just leave us like that, he said. The government is willing to extend the deadline for hospitals that are waiting for the ongoing reaccreditation, so why cant they wait for us? he said. As many as 2,430 hospitals in Indonesia work with BPJS Kesehatan. According to the latest data from the ministry in January, 720 of the hospitals were not yet accredited. After a continuous campaign by the government, there are only 29 hospitals that have not registered for accreditation. The executive secretary of the Hospital Accreditation Commission (KARS), Djoti Atmodjo, said that more than 800 surveyors from the KARS were ready to lead accreditation for those hospitals. The main key here is the hospital directors willingness to undergo the process. [..] We have expedited the process so that the certificate can be issued within only six days from initially one month to minimize the impact [on the patients], Djoti said. While last weeks May Day demonstrations took place relatively peacefully, acts of vandalism during protests in several cities across the country triggered a police crackdown on so-called anarcho-syndicalist activists. National Police chief Gen. Tito Karnavian said that he ordered the mapping of the group and that action would be taken against it. Weve seen them in previous years in Yogyakarta, in Bandung, now they are in Surabaya and Jakarta, he told reporters recently. Unfortunately they conduct violence and vandalism, tagging the A symbol and damaging fences. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Reuters) Washington United States Wed, May 8, 2019 08:08 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736adfbf 2 World #USA,#Iran,B-52-bomber,Middle-East,conflict Free The US military said on Tuesday that B-52 bombers will be part of additional forces being sent to the Middle East to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from Iran to US forces there. White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the United States was deploying a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East. Captain Bill Urban, a spokesman for US Central Command, said that the bomber task force would consist of B-52 bombers. US officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said four B-52s would be deployed, though that number could change. The United States has regularly maintained a bomber presence in the region, and B-1 bombers were there as recently as last month. The B-52 is a long-range, nuclear capable bomber. The military also confirmed that the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had already been scheduled to go to the Middle East, but that its movement was "expedited" due to heightened tension with Iran. Iran's top security body dismissed the US plan to send forces to the region as "psychological warfare." Announcing details of the force on Tuesday, the US military did not provide specific details of intelligence it may have about an Iranian threat. US Central Command, which is responsible for US military operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan, requested additional forces following "recent and clear indications" that Iranian and proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack US forces in the region, Urban said. He said the credibility of those threats was based on sources and methods through which the information was obtained, something the US military was not able to discuss. The military has said the threat to US forces was on land and at sea, but declined to provide further details. "US Central Command continues to track a number of credible threat streams emanating from the regime in Iran throughout the CENTCOM area of responsibility," Urban said. US officials have told Reuters that the intelligence was based on specific and "credible" threats to US forces in Iraq, Syria and the broader region. One US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said there were indications that Iran appeared to be moving short-range ballistic missiles on boats in the Middle East. The United States has previously accused Iran of providing parts of such missiles to Houthi rebels in Yemen fighting a Saudi-led coalition backed by the United States. It is unclear how this intelligence was different. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Lahore, Pakistan Wed, May 8, 2019 13:23 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736cc18b 2 World #Pakistan,#Terrorism,Sufi,shrine,blast,killing,people Free A blast at one of Pakistan's oldest and most popular Sufi shrines killed at least five people and wounded 24 in the eastern city of Lahore Wednesday, police said, as the country marks the fasting month of Ramadan. Police have said they are still investigating the nature of the blast, which occurred near the entrance gate for female visitors to the 11th-century Data Darbar shrine, one of the largest Sufi shrines in South Asia. Husks of vehicles littered the pavement near the shrine as first responders rushed to the scene while armed security forces fanned out in the area. The shrine has long been home to colourful Sufi festivals and a prime destination for the country's myriad Muslim sects, making it a soft target for militant attacks. It has been targeted previously, in a 2010 suicide attack which killed more than 40 people. Since then the area has been increasingly hemmed in by heavy security, with visitors forced to pass through several layers of screening before they can enter the complex. Sufi worshippers, who follow a mystical strain of Islam, have frequently been the target of bloody attacks in Pakistan by Islamist militants -- including the Islamic State group -- who consider Sufi beliefs and rituals at the graves of Muslim saints as heresy. Senior police official Muhammad Ashfaq told a press conference that the security personnel at the shrine were targeted, but stressed that the cause of the blast remains under investigation. Three police officials, a security guard and a civilian were killed, he added. Provincial health minister Yasmin Rashid confirmed the toll. The blast may have been "a suicide attack" on a security vehicle, added police official Muhammad Kashif. Pakistan's push against extremism was stepped up after the country's deadliest ever attack, an assault on a school in Peshawar in 2014 that left more than 150 people dead -- mostly children. Since then, security has dramatically improved but militants retain the ability to carry out dramatic attacks. Major urban centres such as Lahore, Pakistan's second largest city and the provincial capital of its wealthiest province, Punjab, are not immune. An attack in the city in March last year left nine people dead, while a major blast targeting Christians celebrating Easter in a park in 2016 killed more than 70 people. Critics have long argued the military and government crackdown has not addressed the root causes of extremism in Pakistan, where hardline Muslim groups often target religious minorities. The Data Darbar complex contains the shrine of Saint Syed Ali bin Osman Al-Hajvery, popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh. Originally from Afghanistan, he was one of the most popular Sufi preachers on the subcontinent. Tens of thousands of pilgrims visit the shrine each spring to mark his death anniversary, while it is also crowded weekly with worshippers listening to qawwali, a traditional form of Islamic devotional music. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 16:17 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736da6be 1 City drug-abuse,crystal-methamphetamine,smuggling,West-Jakarta,Chinese Free Police have arrested three people suspected of distributing crystal methamphetamine smuggled in from the United States. One of them was apprehended while allegedly trying to fetch drug packages from a post office in West Jakarta. West Jakarta Police narcotics unit chief Adj. Sr. Comr. Erick Frendriz said one of the suspects was a Chinese national. The arrest follows a tip-off from the Customs and Excise Office. We confiscated 19 packages of crystal methamphetamine based on information from the customs office that suspected there might be a shipment of narcotics from the US, Erick said on Wednesday, kompas.com reported. He said the suspects had tried to outsmart the authorities by hiding the contraband inside coffee sachets. After confiscating the packages, police arrested the Chinese suspect, who was allegedly about to pick them up at the Daan Mogot Post Office in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, on Thursday. Police then arrested the two other suspects, who reportedly posed as couriers at a post office and a shipping company in Taman Sari, West Jakarta, the next day. We are still intensively investigating the case for further developments, Erick said. (ami) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 12:08 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736c9af8 1 City marijuana,Depok,confiscation,arrest Free The National Anti-Narcotics Agency (BNN) has arrested two people on suspicion of attempting to distribute 400 kilograms of dried marijuana on Sunday in Depok, West Java. The agency also interrogated three people in connection with the case on Monday. On Sunday night, we received information about an operation to smuggle drugs from Medan [North Sumatra] to Depok, Insp. Gen. Arman Depari, the BNN's drug eradication deputy, said on Tuesday, as quoted by kompas.com. The drug was discovered in two boxes inside a courier minivan. After conducting an investigation, the BNN arrested the recipient at around 9 p.m. [The suspect] lived in a house share, Arman said. The narcotics agency suspects that the drug smuggling operation was organized by a prison inmate. (das) Topics : marijuana Depok confiscation arrest Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia Wed, May 8, 2019 07:47 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736ad68b 2 World #religion,#CatholicChurch,PopeFrancis,priests,marriage,celibate Free An Eastern rite Catholic priest told Pope Francis on Tuesday that marriage and his family had made him a better cleric, during a meeting between the pontiff and local clergy in North Macedonia. While Latin church priests must take a vow of celibacy, Eastern rite churches allow already married men to take the cloth. "As a priest, God gave me the grace to be able to feel the fatherhood of the body, within my family, and at the same time the spiritual fatherhood, in my parish. I have experienced that these two things are complementary," said Father Goce Kostov, a member of the Byzantine rite Catholic Church in Skopje, accompanied by his wife Gabriela and their four sons. "My family helps me in my pastoral work, in my relationships with people, with young people, with children. Without them I would be much poorer," he added. The tiny Catholic community in North Macedonia -- less than one percent of the mainly Orthodox Christian population -- hails predominantly from the Byzantine rite. "Your testimony has that 'Gospel fragrance' of the first communities," commented Pope Francis. "Thank you for having shown the familiar face of the God with us, the God who never ceases to surprise us amid the pots and pans!" the Pope added in conclusion, interrupted by the cry of a baby inside the cathedral. Catholic priests were in fact able to marry for centuries. According to the Bible, Saint Peter, the church's first pope, had a mother-in-law. Celibacy was only made mandatory for Latin rite priests in the 11th century. In January, Pope Francis said he did not think celibacy should be "optional", though he conceded there could be "some possibilities for far flung places", such as the Pacific islands or the Amazon where "there is a pastoral necessity". The idea is likely to be on the table at a synod this year dedicated to the Amazon, an immense territory where clergy are scarce. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ni Komang Erviani (The Jakarta Post) Badung, Bali Wed, May 8, 2019 15:17 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736d0117 1 National bali,DJ,death Free The family of DJ Adam Sky declined an autopsy requested by the police, after the Singapore-based Australian DJ was found dead at a luxury villa in Ungasan, South Kuta, on Saturday. The family believed the DJ had died from a fatal accident. The family has accepted that he died from a fatal accident, South Kuta Police Chief Adj. Comr. Doddy Monza said on Monday. Doddy said the police, therefore, would not push for an autopsy. We are not treating the death as a suspicious case. We will not push for an autopsy, he explained, adding that the family would take the body to Australia as soon as possible. Adam Sky, who was born Adam Gary Neat, died in an accident. The 42-year-old was found dead in a pool of his blood. Read also: Aussie DJ Adam Sky found dead in Bali Neat reportedly crashed into a glass door while trying to rescue his personal assistant, Zoia Lukiantceva, from falling off their private terrace. Police believed the incident occurred on Friday evening, but Neats body was discovered on Saturday morning after hotel staff found Lukiantceva in bushes with a fractured leg. Lukiantceva survived and has been taken to the hospital. However, [Neat] was already dead when he was found, Doddy said. Neats death was confirmed through his official Instagram and Facebook page. It is with great regret that we can confirm Adam Neat was involved in a fatal accident while trying to help a friend who had suffered multiple fractures in Bali on Saturday, 4th May, 2019. Relatives and friends of Adam are traveling to Bali today and handling all arrangements. We ask you to respect the families privacy at this moment while we all come to terms with our tragic loss, the post reads. Topics : bali DJ death Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 14:17 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736ce38f 4 Business foreign-exchange-reserves,APRIL,April-2019,BI Free Bank Indonesia has announced that foreign exchange reserves declined by US$200 million in April to $124.3 billion from the previous month. It was the first decline since January. BI spokesman Onny Widjanarko said on Wednesday the decline was due to foreign debt payments. However, he said foreign exchange reserves were still safe, equal to 6.8 months of imports and foreign debt payments. It is still above the international standard of three months, Onny said as quoted by Antara news agency. He stressed foreign exchange reserves could still support the countrys market resilience from external pressures as well as guard macroeconomic and financial system stability. Onny also expressed confidence about the prospects and stability of the domestic economy. Bank Indonesia data shows that the April decline was the first since January. Foreign exchange reserves were recorded at $120.1 billion in January, $123.3 billion in February and $124.5 billion in March. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 As Indonesia continues its fight against stunting, experts say increasing milk consumption could be a solution for tackling the country's persisting malnutrition problem. The prevalence of stunting in Indonesia's child population remains high, although it saw a decrease to 30.8 percent in 2018 from 37.2 percent in 2013, according to the Health Ministry's 2018 Basic Health Research (Riskesdas). Still, the figure is higher than the 20 percent standard of the World Health Organization (WHO). The government aims to further reduce the prevalence of stunted children to 28 percent this year. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Or let Google manage your subscription Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Stefanno Reinard Sulaiman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 17:33 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736ddd42 1 Business coal-price,decline,April-2019,energy-and-mineral-resources-ministry Free The Indonesian coal price reference (HBA) has continued to decline this month due to shrinking market demand to US$81.86 per ton, or a month-to-month (mtm) decrease of 7.86 percent. Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Ministry spokesperson Agung Pribadi said that East and West Asian countries, especially China and India, were currently limiting their Indonesian coal imports. China and India have started to reduce their coal imports from Indonesia. The countries launched a protection policy and have increased domestic coal production to fulfill [local] demands, Agung said in a statement on Tuesday. The Indonesian Coal Mining Association (APBI) estimated last year that Indonesia's annual coal exports to China was around 110 to 120 million tons for a market share of 25 percent, making China its biggest coal importer. The energy ministry had observed a declining trend in Indonesia's coal price since October 2018, when coal was $100.89 per ton. It then fell to $97.90 per ton in November and $92.51 per ton in December. The negative trend continued this year, dropping to $92.41 per ton in January, $91.8 per ton in February, $90.57 per ton in March and then to $88.85 per ton in April. The government has targeted a national coal production similar to the actual output in 2018 of 485 million tons, of which 25 percent was for domestic market obligation (DMO). (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (Reuters) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 12:34 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736ca685 2 Politics #2019GeneralElections,#attack,police,break-up,plot,attack Free Indonesian anti-terrorism police have shot dead one Islamist militant and detained six suspected of planning attacks on officers with firearms or suicide bombings under the cover of rallies tied to recent elections, a police spokesman said. The suspects were detained after weekend raids in Bekasi in West Java and one died after being shot when he threw a bomb at police, national police spokesman Dedi Prasetyo said. "They were planning to take police firearms and use them to commit terrorism, whether by becoming suicide bombers or performing other attacks that could be fatal for protesters," Prasetyo said, adding that explosives had also been seized. President Joko Widodo declared victory after the April 17 election based on unofficial results from private pollsters, but his challenger, former general Prabowo Subianto, has complained of widespread cheating and insists he won. Prabowo has said that if his complaints were not addressed and an official count due by May 22 confirmed his loss, it could trigger "people power" style protests. Prasetyo said the suspected militants were linked to the Islamic State-inspired Jemaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) group, the largest Islamic State-linked group in Indonesia, which was legally disbanded last year for "conducting terrorism" and affiliating itself with the foreign militant group. He said the suspects intended to use explosives and firearms to imitate the 2008 Mumbai attacks in which militants carried out a series of attacks and bombings across India's financial capital. Indonesian police have had considerable success in stopping major attacks since the deadly 2002 Bali bombings, though analysts warn against complacency. "Indonesia has been lucky thus far that its terrorists generally have had too little experience to think big," analyst Sidney Jones from the Jakarta-based Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict said in a recent report. "With a little imagination and better leadership, these pro-ISIS cells could do far greater damage," said Jones. In March, the wife and son of a suspected militant blew themselves up in their home on the island of Sumatra after hours of tense negotiations with counter-terrorism officers. Indonesia also saw a series of gruesome attacks in the city of Surabaya a year ago, when whole families, including children as young as nine, strapped on explosive vests and blew themselves up at churches and police stations, killing more than 30 people. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 19:17 961 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736e5b93 1 National Ramadan-2019,TNI-AU,Indonesian-Air-Force,fighter-jets,fly-fighter-jets-at-sahur Free The Indonesian Air Force has announced that it will participate in the countrys tradition of waking people up during the fasting month of Ramadan for sahur (predawn meal). Through its Twitter account @_TNIAU, the Air Force said jet fighter training would be conducted in several cities on Java Island, namely Surabaya in East Java, Surakarta, Klaten and Sragen in Central Java and Yogyakarta. God willing, we will carry out the tradition to wake people up for sahur using fighter aircraft, the tweet reads. Separately, Air Force spokesperson Col. Sus M. Yuris said the mission was not merely for maintaining tradition, but to make sure that Air Force personnel do not train during Ramadan. Dawn is the right time to fly for fighter pilots, according to medical experts, who advised against training until after 10 a.m., when the blood sugar levels of people who fast begin to drop. Fighter pilots are not recommended to operate aircraft when they are in the state of having low blood sugar levels, Sus said as quoted by kompas.com. He added that it was a combined mission to wake people up for sahur during training time. During sahur, low-flying fighter aircraft will soar the skies and pilots will be required to use afterburners, which generate noise. A training program at dawn was initiated by the Air Force several years ago. Two kinds of aircraft were mainly used: the F-16 and the T50i. (vny) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 11:01 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736c061a 4 Business Bukit-Soeharto,East-Kalimantan,Jokowi,visit,capital-city-relocation Free President Joko Jokowi Widodo has said that Bukit Soeharto (Soeharto Hill) in East Kalimantan is a suitable place for a new capital city, particularly because it would have the adequate infrastructure required by a capital city. Jokowi on Tuesday visited Bukit Soeharto in Hutan Raya Park, Samboja district, Kutai Kartanegara regency as part of his effort to realize the old plan to relocate the capital city from Jakarta after he revised the plan in a recent Cabinet meeting. Bukit Soeharto is a 61,850-hectare forest also in the province's Panajam Paser Utara regency. The location can be reached by road in about one and a half hours from Samarinda and 45 minutes from Balikpapan, the two largest cities in the province. Here, I see that everything is supportive, the President said as quoted by kontan.co.id. He said the infrastructure in the surrounding area would support it becoming a new capital city. Bukit Soeharto is at about the middle-point of the Samarinda-Balikpapan toll road. Both cities also have airports. The existence of the infrastructure could save money for the capital city development, but Jokowi said there were still other factors to be considered in addition to infrastructure before the decision was made. We need to have a comprehensive socio-political study, the President said, adding that the government would also consider areas that are not disaster-prone for a new capital city. The idea to relocate the capital had been in place since the era of founding president Sukarno when he mentioned that Palangkaraya, the Central Kalimantan provincial capital, could be the national capital. Previously, National Planning Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro said the government had invited leaders of four provinces -- Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, East Kalimantan and West Sulawesi -- to suggest locations for a new capital in their respective jurisdictions. President Jokowi also planned to visit Central Kalimantan on Wednesday. (bbn) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ivany Atina Arbi and Kharishar Kahfi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Wed, May 8, 2019 13:06 962 db1d47cf6ffbed4060cffaa8736cac37 1 Politics Lukman-Hakim-Saifuddin,KPK,reshuffle,Jokowi Free Religious Affairs Minister Lukman Hakim Saifuddin went to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) headquarters on Wednesday to comply with a summons related to a bribery case involving the promotion process at his office. Lukman arrived at the KPK building in Kuningan, South Jakarta, at about 9:50 a.m., accompanied by his aides. The minister was to be questioned as a witness for graft suspect Muhammad Romahurmuziy, formerly chairman of the United Development Party (PPP) and the chairman of the PPP faction at the House of Representatives. Read also: Reshuffle may take place in June: Palace I am here to answer the invitation of the KPK, which wants to get statements from me as a witness in the ongoing case, Lukman told journalists prior to his questioning. He made assurances that Religious Affairs Ministry officials would be cooperative in helping the KPK to resolve the case. In its previous written statement, the antigraft body revealed that Lukman received Rp 10 million (US$698) from the newly appointed head of the East Java Religious Affairs Office, Haris Hasanudin. Haris allegedly got the position with Romahurmuziy's help, according to a text message he sent to the former party chairman. Thank God. I have been officially appointed this evening because of the help from you and the minister. I am now ready to strengthen the PPPs grip, especially in East Java, Haris wrote to Romahurmuziy. The State Palace has signaled that President Joko Jokowi Widodo plans to reshuffle his Cabinet after the Idul Fitri holiday sometime in June amid developing corruption cases that have implicated some its members.